Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Saturday December 18, 2010

Worst Part of the Day-
The kids will be a part of the Christmas paegent at my parents' church on Christmas Eve. This morning was the rehearsal. The kids were soooo poky at getting up and dressed and out the door (needed to be to church 45 minutes away by 9am) that I found myself bribing with McDonald's breakfast sandwiches...ick. We were almost a full 30 minutes late to meet my mom who was so graciously helping with the transport due to my on call status...eeek.

Best Part of the Day-
I did not get called in as I suspected (the weekend prior to Christmas??) so I got more done between the hours of 9am and 1pm than I thought possible. Note: the peeps are not shopping in droves before 10am...

The kiddies are pumped to be in the Christmas play. Liam will be a sheep and Scarlet will be the star. She also loves to say she will be the "star in the play." Excellent!

Friday December 17, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
The kids had a holiday party at the Y from 5p-9p. It was an eve of crafts, bounce house, running around and pizza. I was somewhat worried as my kids are generally in bed by 8-ish, so I was stunned to see them happily making Christmas ornaments and thoroughly not wanting to leave at 9pm. The both fell asleep on the way home.

Worst Part of the Day-
I am the most tired that I may have ever been. I am also on call for hospital job tonight and this whole weekend. Can I pray to the gods that no one calls me???

Thursday December 16, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Made Brother Mike come with me to job #1 Christmas party. The first portion is a play the girls put on (totally amazing) then there's a dinner and Christmas caroling and a Santa sighting. The little kids of the staff get a giant kick. Liam was putting his nearly 4 year-old flirt moves on all the teenage girlies. He could do his telltale clasping of their face in his hands and says some funny gibberish and have them all dying of laughter...
Afterward there is the staff par-tayyy. After several adult bevs, Mike and I sang some karaoke and had a lil fun. (I always forget I love a microphone.)

Worst Part of the Day-
I felt EXHAUSTED all day/night (like almost ill and exceedingly brain fried...) Also more stress when I came home from work and wanted Will-O to have the kids dressed in their holiday party garb as I had minutes and we had to head to the play. STRESS. I hate it. I had to apologize to Mike cause I could just feel the dysfunctionality oozing. Of course he, like everyone, understands. It is what it is.

Wednesday December 15, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Brother Mike came over this evening to spend the night. Enjoyable to sip wine and chat.

Worst Part of the Day-
Really wished Will-O was not present for my Brother Mike time. It seemed so tense in the room...

Tuesday December 14, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
AM-Getting my hair did.
PM-Brother Mike in from Portland for the holidayz...so fun to see him! The kids were going bananas to see him. Liam kept referring to him as "Uncle Sean" or "Uncle Joe". Pretty great.

Worst Part of the Day-
So we are "adopting" a family from a local domestic violence shelter for my health class at job #1. Tonight our class time consisted of us starting our holiday shopping for our family. It is a young mom and 2 girls--ages 6 and 10. The girls with whom I work REALLY got into it and did a great job, but everyone in the world seemed to be driving the streets and running into stores. Hustle and bustle madness.

Monday December 13, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Done with hospital job early schmerly! Went to other job and got done 2 hours earlier than usual. Met Cuz S. out for "a drink" which meant 2 martinis each...super duper fun. (And Cuz S. saved me arse cheeks as she baked up some goodies for PTA bake sale tomorrow=yippee!

Worst Part of the Day-
So Will-O has been walking around down in the dumps for days-weeks (yes, he detests holidays--yes, he has depression issues.) Then today he was eerily up. He was smiley and happy...I thought he was a little drunk, actually. Then he told me: "I have this once in a lifetime opportunity...I'm going to sail around the world for 3 1/2 months for a documentary film. I leave New Years Day." Huh. New Years Day, like in 2 weeks? Must be nice to know your children are supreme care whilst you freely sail the high seas. Oh, and he has never sailed before...
Standard ops.

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Tuesday December 14, 2010

Worst Part of the Day - Lot's o' driving today - packed all four boys up good n' early to get the nephews to school by 7:30 a.m.  Then had to pack my two plus a pal of theirs in order to pick them up in the afternoon.  Then again with the homework!  Jack started to give me grief about it .... then he settled in and promptly completed about a hour and 20 minutes of spelling, math and story writing (in German!)  Okay - so I again dangled a Pokemon movie as a reward - but that kiddos got it done!!
Erik bummed to leave for work - we're bummed to see him go :(

Best Part of the Day - Chris and Ann arrived early to pick up their kiddos looking tan and well rested.  Nice.  

Monday December 13, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Got all four boys up and dressed and breakfasted.  Then left my two with Erik and took the other two to their German school.  It's a haul, but we made it on time.  Back at home, Erik had an appointment, so I took Wes to the gym and then SuperTarget ... this time he had a hot chocolate and he (of course) lived for it.

Worst Part of the Day - Man, I'm going to hate it when my kiddos have homework.  I never knew how much it blew for the parents ... or it this a recent phenomenon??  I don't recall having much homework as a 3rd grader, nor my parents really stressing about it.  I remember a couple big projects, that's about it.  But Jack did well settling in and completing his tasks (I dangled Pokemon movie as a reward if he got it done).

Sunday December 12, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Lazy, rainy and cold day - great for being inside and reading the newspaper and chatting.

Worst Part of the Day - Lazy, rainy and cold day - terrible for four boyz who need to run and jump and play and who were getting a little tired of each other.  They ate all meals in shifts today - and at totally random times.  There was no order or schedule - just a "whatever" type of day.  Still all went well and we got them to bed by 7:15 p.m.  They all conked out quickly.
Also forgot my wallet (that's three times in one week) and could no complete some necessary grocery shopping.

Saturday December 11, 2010

Worst Part of the Day - Went to pick up my two nephews who are spending the next several days with us while their lucky parents vacation in Mexico.  Unfortunately, I got caught up in Thunder Road Marathon traffic (I SWEAR the finish line was at their friend's house).  A 25 minute drive turned into a hour and fifteen minutes.  Double sigh.  But I scooped them up and we hiked on home.

Best Part of the Day - All four boyz played nicely together and limited drama.  Got them to bed around 8 with limited hijinks.

Friday December 10, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Took kiddos to the children's museum with Erik.  They do love that place and it's good, clean fun that keeps them occupied for hours.

Worst Part of the Day - Began the movie Gorky Park .... confused by it so far.  Sables?  Hmmm.  But do believe William Hurt as a Russian which is odd.

Thursday December 9, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Erik home!  I do enjoy having all the boys under one roof.  I also do enjoy watching some Survivor and sipping tea.  Crazy times, crazy times.

Worst Part of the Day - Boys are stinky.  It's not a generalization if it's true.

Wednesday December 8, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Swim lessons are going swimmingly.  So great to see the boyz improve!  Q can now doggie paddle and Wes is actually using his arms and legs and stroking.  Nice.

Worst Part of the Day - I'm pushing for a holly jolly Christmas.  Am I the only one?

Tuesday December 7, 2010

Best  Part of the Day - Picking up odds and ends at my leisure - zen-a-rific.

Worst Part of the Day - Too cold to get littles outside and they seemed rather stir crazy.

Monday December 6, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Erik had an appointment so Wes and I had a little one on one time together.  We shopped through Super Target and he munched this bento box type thing with chicken salad, crackers, carrots and grapes.  Most easy easy to take just one ... anywhere.

Worst Part of the Day - No tennis for the littles - too dern cold outside. 

Saturday December 4, 201

Worst Part of the Day - It's COLD COLD COLD down here!  Like Midwestern cold.  Boooo.

Best Part of the Day - Birthday party for Quinn at his neighborhood pal's house.  Super fun and relaxed, like the birthday parties we had as kiddos.  Then later to a holiday party at another neighbor's house.  We brought the kiddos and they ran upstairs to be entertained by a babysitter.  Joy to drive three minutes home after said party.

Sunday December 5, 2010

Best Part of the Day - I think I'm just about back to normal after me sickness.  No one else got anything - food poisoning?  Just about done with Christmas shopping.  I've got bigger fish to fry, i.e. hosting my whole fam for the holiday :)

Worst Part of the Day - Need some more jolly at the Ho Ho Homestead.

Saturday December 4, 2010

Worst Part of the Day - It's COLD COLD COLD down here!  Like Midwestern cold.  Boooo.

Best Part of the Day - Birthday party for Quinn at his neighborhood pal's house.  Super fun and relaxed, like the birthday parties we had as kiddos.  Then later to a holiday party at another neighbor's house.  We brought the kiddos and they ran upstairs to be entertained by a babysitter.  Joy to drive three minutes home after said party.

Friday December 3, 2010

Best Part of the Day - did some hanging with my homeboy and trying to make him feel better about his jobbie.  Tis hard.  The babes and I must soon join him in his workland which is fine and all shall adjust.

Worst Part of the Day - Friend bailed on me at the last minute regarding a party .... the guest RSVP list was small to begin with so it turned out to be me, the host, the woman the party was for and one other guest.  Oddly, I was there until 12:30 a.m. and did end up having a good ole time.  Still I do hate to be bailed upon at le last minute for a lame reason.

Earlier today had Quinn's eye appointment.  I got a little lecture because Quinn had not been wearing his glasses all the time.  Okay, medical types - can you PLEASE be clear with instructions?  I heard - wear the glasses when patching his eye and then some other times.  He meant to say was HAVE HIM WEAR THE GLASSES 24/7.   Happy to follow instructions as long as I know what the instructions are.  Now I have my marching orders and I'm all over it.

Thursday December 2, 2010

Worst Part of the Day - Still not feeling a 100%, but able to get up and around today.  Food sounds disgusting.  Eating saltines.

Best Part of the Day - Erik home early - hooray, hurrah.

Wednesday December 1, 2010

Worst Part of the Day - Awoke with some minor cramping in me belly.  It eventually turned into full fledged puking, GI distress and overall malaise.  I dropped the babes off at school and then turned around and went home.  I Sprite-d it up and took them to swimming - watching with my head cradled in my hands.  Home for more Sprite and media for the littles.

Best Part of the Day - Bought an app called Angry Birds and the littles left me be to groan and moan over my sick tum tum.

Tuesday November 30, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Getting some major (and minor) Christmas decorating done.

Worst Part of the Day - Erik not feeling s(well).  It's hard to be away all week (believe, me I know.)

Monday, December 13, 2010

Sunday December 12, 2010

Worst Part of the Day-
We had a kid B-day party this afternoon that the kiddies were really jazzed about: Flabbergast. Kinda like a Chuck E. Cheese meets Pump It Up. After making the kids bathe, get all cutsie, gifts prepped, drive through the crazy white-out snow, we find out the party has been cancelled due to weather. Liam was in tears and what to do with our afternoon??

Best Part of the Day-
We were already quite near my parentals' home so we just went there to hang for the day. The kids played awesomely and took a winter wonderland walk with G-Pa T. I kinda lounged and we ate a great din. Unexpected fun and highly snowy day.

Worst of the Best-
Liam had a meltdown as we were leaving the parentals' home. Oh my tired friend.

Saturday December 11, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Went to a holiday party this snowy eve (in a gorgeous Queen Anne Victorian in my childhood neighborhood) with my parents. Yes, my parents. It was quite a to do as bashes go and pretty fun overall. Toys for Tots!

Worst Part of the Day-
One minute, yet slightly strange encounter with the host of the holiday party. Getting a major Great Gatsby vibe.

Also, slid into ditch on way home from party. No biggie, just reversed out of the ditch, but oh my slickness...

Friday December 10, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Snow mania. The kids are loving it. It is fabulous to have them out in the yard for hours and hours playing in the freezing fresh air. My favorite.

Worst Part of the Day-
Things are at an all time low with Will-O. He is just down and depressed and as Scarlet said, "Ba humbug to you, too." I told him he needs to move on figurtively and literally come January. He must be out the home. Yes, it will be oodles more challenging for me to do that morning and afteroon kid drop-off and pick-up hell. But it must and will happen.
He tells me I am screwing up my kids for abandoning him...Ba humbug to you.

Thursday December 9, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Had a meeting (somehow I am a member of an arts funding committee at Scarlet's school--in addition to the PTA) and we had a meeting this am at 7:45. It was seriously eye opening and pretty flooring to see how much work peeps do on a volunteer basis. 1 woman writes grant after grant...it is amazing how much only a few people can accomplish.


Worst Part of the Day-
So, I was supposed to teach my first CPR/First Aid/AED class today...it was cancelled as we did not receive our class room equipment in time. Aw man. I was all jazzed up to teach.

Wednesday December 8, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Picked up Christmas cards and they are cuteness! Cannot wait to get em going!

Worst Part of the Day-
Discovered that my old school address book is terrible! What am I 80 years old?? Half of my peeps have died and the other half have moved 3 times since I last looked at this book. Must get into the late 1990's...

Note of fun:
Started my new schedule of 2 days/week at hospital and 3 days/week at job #1. (instead of 3 and 3...) It rocks! So unexpected is that 1 extra day...still working but it feels like a vacation. Yes.

Happy Birthday to ol friend, Tamalama! We are sooo elderly!!

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Monday November 29, 2010

Worst Part of the Day - No school for Quinn today.  REALLY - you think maybe they haven't had enough time off lately???  I love, love his preschool, but DAMN they take a lot o' days off.


Best Part of the Day -  Went to see Tangled with all the boyz - it was pretty good.  The boyz did okay, they just need more stimulation (i.e. hard for them to sit still for 90 minutes).

Sunday November 28, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Taught at the gym.  Came home and then Erik took the boyz to McDonald's for lunch and energy burning (it is rainy and cold).  Had some time to clean up and then sit on me arse and read the paper.  Luxurious.

Worst Part of the Day - Wes thinks he's the boss around here and it's hard to convince him otherwise.  It's a constant (and daily) struggled with our strong willed second born.  He's either making you laugh or making you cry and it's very exhausting.

Saturday November 27, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Took boyz to the gym for a two hour post-Thanksgiving workout.  They hung in childcare and I sweated out some carbs.  Then I took them to Target for lunch and some Christmas decoration shopping.  Then we went home and put up the tree and some lights and some garlands.  Beginning to look a lot like ... well, like we need even more decorations.

Worst Part of the Day - Got our first ever fake Christmas tree and I put it up and took a critical look and it looked HORRIBLE!  So I called Erik over and he said "well you might want to stretch out the branches."  Oh.  Once I did that it looked much better.

Friday November 26, 2010

Best Part of the Day - I think Erik and I rolled out of bed around 9 a.m. again.  Whoa.  Quinn slept just about as long as we did, Mr. Wes was downstairs swilling milk, eating frozen waffles and watching tv.  That kiddo should have his own three year old survivor type show.
Later Wes napped and then we all went out for a highly enjoyable dinner.  Poor Q was sooo tired by the time we got home ... right to bed with him.

Worst Part of the Day - Having to text Santa on a seemingly hourly basis.  Wes is most certainly on the naughty list.

Tuesday December 7, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Cuddling up with the kiddies in eve.

Worst Part of the Day-
Got in a lil fender bender, as they say, this morn en route to work. If only I was less legal in my dealings--I basically made this other driver (who stopped dead on a highway off ramp and then I rear ended him) stay while I called the cops and I end up getting a "failure to control vehicle" ticket. There was no damage to the other car, but my front bumper was cracked (perhaps also cause it is zero degrees outside) and I got a $216 ticket and 4 points citation. Dude. Better believe I am contesting!!

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Monday December 6, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Due to low census (yes!) I got done with hospital job early and headed to other job which meant I was home early! I managed to sneak in some holiday shopping (it never ends even when you're a minimalist...) and I found some grand deals for lil ol me (Merry Christmas to me!).

Worst Part of the Day-
I am awaiting my holiday cards that I ordered pre-Thanksgiving...I want to pretend I am organized...where are you??

Sunday December 5, 2010

Best Parts of the Day-
1. I simply declared to the kids: "It is Sunday and I am sleeping in and reading. " They watched Christmas-themed vids for a spell (hours perhaps) and I lounged. So be it.

2. We made cookies this eve for St. Nick. The kids did a grand job of helping and the treats turned out great (I suck at baking...) Scarlet wrote the cutest note to St. Nick ("and friends") and we hung our stockings with care...

Worst Part of the Day-
Liam had another meltdown in a store today. Huh. He is in a mode/mood. When I put him on the Thinking Step for some other non-listening behavior this eve he sobbed, "I am sorry--it is myself hurting my-self! I know the right thing to do..."
Then please do the right thing, Friend-a-licious.

Best Part of the Worst Part-
Liam's tantrums do not emotionally phase me in the least. (As Scarlet's once did...and still do if she dare have them...) Of interest.

Saturday December 4, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
I worked out!! I really did it.

Also, the kids also had Breakfast with Santa this morn and then they played in the back yard in the new fallen snow much of the afternoon! Hurrah.


Worst Part of the Day-
All set to go to friends' holiday par-taaay and Liam can down with bright red cheeks, fever and ear pain (perhaps the 8 hours building a snow fort, friendie??) Though my sitter was on board with me administering the necessary OTC meds and putting lil man down to bed, it was the workin mom guilt (compounded with the fact that they had a sitter last night...) that made me cancel planned cavorting and stay home. Doh.

Best Part of the Worst Part-
Snow and early bedtime for all allowed me to read 100+ pages of new book, Little Bee. Me likey.

Friday December 3, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Holiday gathering for Book Club! Enjoyable and delectable as always. From the grab bag o' books, picked Little Bee. Have heard good things and cannot wait to dive into!

Worst Part of the Day-
So when you're a single mom and ya wanna go to Book Club or anywhere else in the eve ya gotta get a sitter. The sitter who was available (and the kids adore...) is my 15 year-old sitter. I either have to arrange for rides ((her mom is very helpful), but tonight I delivered the kids to her. Since I knew they would be dead tired and would never dream of sleeping at the sitter's--even for a moment, I left B.C. early and got them in beddie at a somewhat reasonable time. Shenans.

Thursday December 2, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Went to Cuz K.'s in eve for a lil B-day celebration for friend J. The kids were o.k. 1 glass of wine=yippee.

Worst Part of the Day-
Liam had a melt down/tantrum in CVS on the way to eve celebration. Dude--are you in the Terrible-I-am-almost-4 mode??

Wednesday December 1, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Going to only 1 job/day is easier, friends.

Worst Part of the Day-
Kids kinda hard to settle down for beddie. Come on, now.


Happy Birthday, Brother Sean! Welcome to your late 30's...they really rock.

Tuesday November 30, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Babs helped me pick up the kids and then helped me move the furniture back into Scarlet's room. Her room looks amazing!!!

Worst Part of the Day-
Will-O is out of town for the next week so it is all me. Back in zone I go.

Monday November 29, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Will-O was around to help me move all of the furniture out of Miss Scarlet's room for her hardwood floors to be redone tomorrow. (How in tarnation could I have done that on my own??)

Worst Part of the Day-
I rushed home from my long day (14 hrs of fun) as Will-O needed to go somewhere at 9pm. It was hard to do--these doc rounds sometimes last until 9:30ish. Why am I still rushing at 9pm on a Monday??

Sunday November 28, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Kinda relaxing Sunday (which is new/rare). Slept over at my parents' last night as kids stayed there so we had a relatively chill morn.

Worst Part of the Day-
No physical activity is going on with me these days...

Thursday, December 2, 2010

Saturday November 27, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Talked to my old pal who is in town from San Francisco this morn and he asked if I wanted to go to the Badger football game today. Yes, I did! Babs agreed to watch kiddies so I could go (again, thank you, thank you!) Old friend's nephew is pretty much a "star" wide receiver on the team and so we watched the Badgers kill the other team and then went with the team and family to the post-party as now the are slotted to go the Rose Bowl. Suuuuper duuuper fun college day and great day catching up with old pal.

Worst Part of the Day-
Impromptu game day made me cancel my ladies night plans with two different groups of me ladies.

Friday November 26, 2010

Update:
Scarlet rode back to WI with Sean/Alli, so Liam and I just took our sweet time. We stopped at the homestead to pick up clean clothes and then headed to Oconomowoc for another party time overnight.

Best Part of the Day-
Babs hooked me up with a sitter (thank you, thank you!) and then Babs/Ter took Sean, Alli and myself out to "hip" wine bar for din and drinks this eve. My martini was the best I ever had and the food was outstanding. Dinner convo was pretty funny as usual. Our table came in like a lamb and out like a lion. We were exceedingly LOUD AS HELL upon leaving. Peeps were all juiced up. When I am the most sober after a martini, then ya know it's a wild night.

Worst Part of the Day-
Some mini family drama after a few drinks. I understand--I have been there...oh so many times.

Thursday November 25, 2010

Best Parts of the Day-
So many:
1. Marinel cooked it up!!! This woman made everything from scratch and it rocked. Babs is tough competition and Mar did it up.
2. Seeing the cousins play and hang. (Wyatt may be the most even-keeled child ever. Seems to lack the extreme intensity and emotional volatility of the O'Neills...)
3. Very enjoyable gathering at Terinel's--drinks and a feast and a good game of Poor Man's Scattegories to end Part One of the eve.
4. Sleep over at Sean/Alli's complete with watching The Sound of Music with the kids for Part Two. We ALL loved it!!
5. Minimal Chicago traffic overall.
6. Healthy family.

Worst Part of the Day-
So minor:
My concept of complementing fall outfits for myself and kiddies did not quite work out as planned. Liam, in full 3 year-old style, will pick and dress himself. Scarlet wore a traditional Native American Indian top (which was a bunting she wore as a 2 month-old, if one can even believe it) with a coordinating skirt. And I, as usual, kinda forgot about my non-fashion plate self and looked a little like a pale Greecian wearing a brown toga. Whatevs.

Neither Best Nor Worst:
The first holiday Will-O and I did not spend together. Not planned, not unplanned--just naturally occurred.

Happy Giving of Thanks to all! I am truly sorry the white man was such a jerk to the Native American people. It is pleasant to have a holiday that has evolved into people coming together to give thanks and eat.

Wednesday November 24, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Hitting the sack with my winter coat and full clothes still on. at 7pm.

Worst Part of the Day-
I'm on call and praying that no one calls as I am simply not feeling well--must rest.

November Tuesday 23, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Getting set for Thanksgiving. Kid outfits-check, Tofurkey-check, getting the car set for Chicago trip-checkie. Had the carpets shampooed and the house is lookin good.

Worst Part of the Day-
Because I have a mental problem and just cannot sit still (and environmental allergies to all things dusty), I began ripping out the carpeting in Scarlet's room (knew in advance I would be doing this room, so did not have this professionally cleaned...)--ripping out carperting is unlikely as even though it is a physical and dirty job, it is pretty easy to do and the results are immediate. But, another home improvement task now looms.

Monday November 22, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Finally viewing all pics from kid photo shoot in Oct. SOOOOO many cute ones and not even a hint of unerlying tension on me face. The studion called, Front Room Photography, in Bayview is THE coolest. Yeah!

Worst Part of the Day-
Worked 12 hours and then had appt to view photo shoot and discuss holiday card, prints, etc. I think this photographer thought I was a tad strung out with my sunken eyes and wrinkled hospital scrubs...

Sunday November 21, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Scarlet and I had our 6 month dental exam/cleanings today. On a Sunday. It was fab. My dentist fully admitted his plan: "I work 7 days a week for 10 years and then I retire." It is a great idea actually--the local hospitals are aware of his daily availability and send their ER tooth pain cases to him (usually they just go home with Vicodin and wait, wait, wait...) I love a good tooth cleaning. And no cavs for the Miss S.

Worst Part of the Day-
Tried to reserve my annual Tofurkey at my local health food store and they are OUT. I am pleased that more WI peeps are choosing the meat alternative, but what the??

Saturday November 20, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Liam did an amazing job in basketball this morn. His "coach" did a perfect job of getting him excited (lotsa high fives really help!) It was too cute. He is a little guy so naturally they have him playing point guard, so he starts every play and bounce passes to a teammate each time they travel down the court. It is so cute to see him beam with pride, "I'm the guard!"

Worst Parts of the Day-
1. Forgot to bring my running shoes when the kids and I went to the Y this morn. Nice job, Flabby. Does just siting there sipping my coffee and reading magazines count as working out??

2. Planned on meeting up with my lady peeps for perhaps my last Bacheloretter party eva. I put the kids down, got dolled up, went to cheezy bar about 10pm and even though the fine technology of cell phone let me know the entourage of lasses would be arriving in minutes, I could NOT stand the cheeziness, the lighting and the patrons and just bailed on the B. party. Sometimes even I too snooty--and a lil too tired for the party zone.

Friday November 19, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Catching up on Californication. It kills me.

Worst Part of the Day-
I realllly need to do some physical activity that leads to increased heart rate.

Thursday November 18, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
So Scarl's school had their annual day when parents serve a traditional Thanksgiving feast to the kids. And when I am serving Thanksgiving feast, I do what any upstanding Puritan would do--I don my Pilgrim costume with pride and start selflessly serving up lotsa carbs. Scarlet was beaming when she saw me amongst the "normal" parents in the "normal" clothes. I knew I would score a spot in the weekly newsletter, but I did not expect that the younger set (4-7 year-olds) would be so wowed by me. I kinda felt like Cinderella at Disney. Kids were wide-eyed and quiet with admiration: "Are you a real Pilgrim?" One teacher had me give a 3 minute tutorial on Plymouth Rock and my Native American friends. (Maybe the teacher thought I was a real Pilgrim...)
Truly I was glad that I was at soley job #1 today so I could sneak away midday.

Weirdest Part of the Day-
I dorkily and somewhat forgetfully kept the Pilgrim suit on for the entire day post-lunch (I was rockin the bonnet...) I went out to lunch with some co-workers in it and kept getting smiles and smirks from all. Too funny.

Worst Part of the Day-
So now my kids are going to Madison for Christmas Eve (which is fine, but I am on call so cannot travel that far so I will not be with them) and then they will go to my parents' Christmas Eve gathering in the eve. Alas--I just hope they are not hot messes from the mini-travel and double party action. Remember, I like to plan for success, not failure...Ho hum.

Wednesday November 17, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Scarlet is so highly enjoying first grade. It is a joy to behold.

Worst Part of the Day-
Received a letter in the mail from mother-in-law which seems more diluted and cryptic than original cryptic email. In high atypical (for me) form I did what perhaps most normal humans do to function throughout life. I ignored/evaded the letter. I figure there is no use getting all red-cheeked and linear-thinking (of course) with someone who is not processing the information at hand. Ahh, the fun of evading. This too shall pass.

Tuesday November 16, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Snugglin up with the cutes at the end of the late day.

Worst Part of the Day-
Low grade drama continues with email communication with (ex) mother-in-law. Even worse is that I forgot my mom is not a great voice of hard nose objectivity with my many questions of: Did my emails seems bitchy? Do I have a point?? What is (the f) going on??

Monday November 15, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Attended only one job (the one where I can make a dentist appt and purchase b-day gift online for friend--not the one where ya run around like freak a deak.) E-Z.

Worst Part of the Day-
Well one bad thing about being able to check your email at work is that I checked it and found cryptic email from monther-in-law (they don't really become "ex") stating she feels she has been most "flexible" and "patient" and is tired of me always making the plans for the kids to go only to my family's holiday events, so she booked Scarlet and Liam for Christmas Eve gathering in Madison. Well, I thought I would use my assertiveness training skills and nip it in the bud with clear, concise communication. Ahhh.
The next thing I know the email are getting more bizarre (tearful and emotional?) and I am labeled as "angry". Huh and WTH and WTF? Now I'm getting a lil miffed, but please note that is not "angry." Thank heavens I copied Babs on all emails just to have a 3rd perspective.
Whew. As if I have nothing else to do in my lazy day.

Sunday, November 28, 2010

Thursday November 25, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Erik and I slept in until 9:30 a.m.  Whoa.  Who knows what the kiddos were watching downstairs.  Chocolate chip banana pancakes for breakfast.  Then over to Chris and Ann's by 2 p.m.  Cold duck, appetizers, awesome dinner .... plus lots of chit chatting and children playing.  Excellent Thankgiving.

Worst Part of the Day - Feel a little icky after the drinking/dinner binge.  Ugh.

Wednesday November 24, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Took kiddos to the gym and then to the McDonald's playland for two hours.  They had to have worked off that saturated fat and chemical stuff, right?  They sat for a total of ten minutes (maybe).

Erik home!  We watched us some Survivor and snuggled on the couch.

Worst Part of the Day - Not a 100% well today.

Tuesday November 23, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Had Wes little bestie over and they played o so nicely together (and drank about three Danimals each.  Man, I wish I could cash in on that Danimal craze.)  Got my hair cut and my whole head feels lighter.

Worst Part of the Day - Thinking ahead to five solid days of me and the Reitter boyz  and no real plans (aside from Thanksgiving).

Monday November 22, 2010

Best Part of the Day - It's a new record for E and me - saw a CPA today and actually started thinking about taxes (gasp) prior to March (which was the new record set last year.  Prior to that, we started about April 1).
Boys had tennis and were the only two participants.  So dern funny and the coach is most excellent with the youngins'.

Worst Part of the Day - Erik had to leave right after the CPA appointment - but he'll be back Wednesday night!

Wes quote - I don't like girl toys, they are so girly.  (and he says girl 'gurl' which makes it sound even funnier)

Sunday November 21, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Erik had the boys gone and out of the house for hours and hours ... it was so nice to get some things done and then sit and listen to the refrigerator hum (I only did this for about 30 minutes - cut some slack.)

Worst Part of the Day - Erik has to leave tomorrow - I want him to stay and be my manny.

Saturday November 20, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Some outdoor time with the fam - it is so sunny and cool and yellow leaf galore here.  Really, really nice.

Worst Part of the Day - Wes not listening.  At all.  SO annoying.  Time to get hard core.

Friday November 19, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Went to gym and then met C and her two littles for lunch and then children museuming fun.  Everyone very pleased with the excellent adventure.  Erik home!  Boys and I are very excited!

Worst Part of the Day -  Cleaning, picking up, more cleaning ... and this is not for an event or people coming over, just the general day to day of it all.  Tiring.

Thursday November 18, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Truly is there anything cuter than a five year old in a construction paper pilgrim hat?  I sincerely doubt it.  Q had his Thanksgiving feast at preschool today.

Worst Part of the Day - Boyz need to run and run and run and run some more.  Can't we ever just sit and craft (that actually cracks me up just to write it - they will never 'craft' for me.  Probably because I  am so lousy at crafting.)

Wednesday November 17, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Hangin' with my friend C and her sweet baby boy Jack.  She cracks me up.  Then J met up with us too for some more delightful fun.

Worst Part of the Day - Do you think my acne makes me look younger?  That's me looking on the bright side.  Man, I'm broken out.

Tuesday November 16, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Went to the yoga class again.  It's so dern far away and it takes up most of my child free time - but man it feels G double O D good.  Children still playing so very nicely downstairs.

Worst Part of the Day - Wes is a super snot.  Seriously that boy needs a major attitude adjustment.  He's 3  and that is kind of scary.

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Sunday November 14, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
The kids and I cleaned out the garage and set up Christmas lights (I go minimal with the lights as with most things...) I told them we can't light em up until after Thanksgiving, but it's done.

Worst Part of the Day-
Would be nice to do these things with an adult (male.) No biggie.

Saturday November 13, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Had a Mad Scientist B-day to attend. Also fun for me to be with my fun mom friends and wine. Great afternoon for all.

Worst Part of the Day-
Liam may have been a sickie all week, but my lawd, he balked at basketball this morn. The boy would not play.

Friday November 12, 2010

Worst Part of the Day-
Nutty nuts again at the hospital. I checked my voice mail at noon and then went into a 4 hour case. When I got out and checked my voice mail again I had 7 new messages--never good. It turns out Scarlet felt ill and feverish right as school was ending and didn't want to go the after-school program. The school called me, Will-O (out of town), my mom, his mom and then Cuz K. Cuz K. went and collected the Miss S. who after a movie and snacks felt just fine. Shenanigans.


Best Part of the Day-
As much as I wanted to stay at Cuz K.'s and swill wine, Scarlet has had plans on the docket to see a play tonight and have a sleep over with cousin. It ALL worked out despite the shenanigans from 2-5pm.

Thursday November 11, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Just hitting the sack.

Worst Part of the Day-
Suuuuuper busy at the hospital. Nuts and non-stop for at least 10 hours.

Wednesday November 10, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Scarlet and I went to our first Parent Teacher Association meeting this eve. Afterward we had "Art Night" with her school's current artist in residence. We made paper and it was a blast. I forgot how relaxing it is to do art work (especially when it is all laid out for ya...and someone else cleans up...)

Worst Part of the Day-
My funny hospital co-workers were going out on the town for drinks and eats. While I technically could've joined in on the fun (as Will-O is on the scene), alas, I am a PTA mom, not a carousing fool, thankyaverymuch.
Also, Liam continues on with nighttime fevers since Monday...buddy boy.

Tuesday November 9, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Kids:
Received Scarl's report card and she is takin names in the first grade. Excellente.

Scarlet also told me when I was tucking her in, "Thanks a lot, Mom, for all the things you do for me...just look at my room-the pictures on the walls, everything. You are working a lot for us, I really appreciate it." (I don't think I had this parental appreciation until my 20's at least.) My word, this child is 7.

Worst Part of the Day-
Liam is under the weather. He has been burning up and headachey.

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Monday November 15, 2010

Worst Part of the Day - I look out at our backyard and it looks like we didn't do a THING.  Well maybe not that bad - but certainly not clear o' leaves.  Erik had to leave early today.


Best Part of the Day -  Had my pal M and her son over in the afternoon.  So good to see her and catch up.  Later I cleaned out the basement!  It's only been on my to do list for weeks (and weeks).  It is now immaculate and as a special bonus the kiddos played down there for two hours without fighting or sneaking the tv.  Amazing what you can find when things are not buried under piles o' junk.

Sunday November 14, 2010

Worst Part of the Day - Erik got up and walked outside to start blowing and raking leaves.  Sigh - guess I'd best help.  So I got out there and helped until it was time for me to teach my class.  We did get a good amount done.  Then Erik and Chris winterized the boats for the rest of the afternoon/early evening.  While transporting C's boat, the trailer broke!  Luckily someone with a hydraulic lift came by (what the ...)


Best Part of the Day - Showering, sitting on the couch and babying my aching muscles.  Soooo tired.

Saturday November 13, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Chris, Ann and the boys over today.  Chris and Erik are starting to winterize the boats.  We fed the kiddos and then ordered out dinner.  I (had to) open up some red wine.  Good chatting.

Worst Part of the Day - Our backyard is five inches thick with leaves.  Erik made some good progress with the leaf blower today, but the boat winterizing has only just begun.  Our kiddos were LOSING it by the end of the night - kept coming up with sob stories or whines or crazy requests.  Plus Q appeared to be hitting his brother and cousin ... don't mess with his UNO Flash, all right?  But seriously, he can't be hitting.  Tiring.

Friday November 12, 2010

Worst Part of the Day - Supposed to take the littles to the Discovery Place children's museum with my friend C, but Wes appears to be a little under the weather - warm to the touch, slightly lethargic (this means his activity/energy level is probably that of a normal child).  So I call off the date and we spend the day playing UNO, watching movies, playing cars and the like.


Best Part of the Day - Starting in on the Twisted Sisterhood book ... anyone read it?  So far, it's very interesting.  The woman who wrote it was date raped at a fraternity function in college.  So her sorority sisters, instead of comforting her, alienate, berate and gossip about her.   So she wrote this NY Times essay about it and was then either thanked or mocked by readers.  So she decided to write this book about how many females are gun shy about female friendships due to things that have happened to them.
Erik home!  Two Survivors back to back :)

Thursday November 11, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Had a coffee party at my friend C's house.  She just got this brand new uber espresso machine and decided to have a little get together in the manana.  As it is Veteran's Day (THANK YOU Veterans!), the kiddos didn't have school so they were there as well.  The kiddos were all SO good, and not very loud which I thought was odd (and cool).  The coffee was ... DREAMY.  That espresso mixed with foamed milk was about the best coffee I've ever had.  No joke.  Then met Ann and the cousins at the big Discovery Place for two more hours o' fun.

Worst Part of the Day - Wes so very tired by the end of the museum, but holding it together.  Quinn a total nightmare leaving .... unacceptable!  Wes fell asleep in the car and was transfered to the couch where he slept for at least two hours.

Wednesday November 10, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Had some hang out time with my fave pal J.  Felt like I had not seen her in forever as she is now (basically) running the local elementary school.   Also much better trip to the warehouse club where I presently have a trial membership.  Anyone want to talk about the pros and cons of warehouse membership/shopping?  I'm your gal and YES I will bring it up even if you don't wish to talk about it.

Worst Part of the Day - AGAIN we are not home until 4 and it felt all off.  And again the dog was giving me dirty looks.

Tuesday November 9, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Went to an actual yoga class at a studio.  It was really hard and I about passed out three times (the curse of my naturally low blood pressure don't cha know) and I felt drained and shaky afterward.  Planning to go again next week!  Then drove the boys directly from preschool to the children's museum where they played and I read and entire Real Simple magazine.  Three hours later we walked out the door and HOME.

Worst Part of the Day - Not getting home until 4 p.m. had my schedule all hinky.  I felt totally off.  No baths and three separate dinners for two kids.  Plus the dog was super pissed and kept yelling at me.

Monday, November 15, 2010

Monday November 8, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Had it all planned out to: take the morning off! Woo-hoo. Ingenious. Kids went to respective places and I slept and readied and cleaned in peace. Perfecto.

Worst Part of the Day-
Still worked 9-ish hours.

Kid Quote:
I thought this only happened in cheese ball movies starring chubby kid actors with lisps...instead my own skinny kid with a lisp said, "I love you so much, Mom. I want to marry you so we can be together forever." I didn't get into explaining any of it--the mom/son thing, marriage or foreverness. I just said, "forever, it will be my boy."

Sunday November 7, 2010

Best Parts of the Day-
Well, well, well. Relaxing. Is this the first relaxing Sunday I have had in a spell?? Kinda snoozed in and lounged about in the morn. Sitter came and Will-O drove to and from Packer game. I fully slept both ways in the back--dreams and all. Packer game! Great seats, fantastic win and not cold 1 bit!!! And a pleasant time with Will-O.

Worst Part of the Day-
I incidentally had 6-7 friends going to the Pack game (most from last night's wedding) and we were to meet up, tailgate (and go insane as these are my majorly wild friends, not my book club friends...) Anyhoo, couldn't find them in the madness of Lambeau--didn't meet up. Ho hum.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Monday November 8, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Erik and Wes had their dad/son deal today (saw MegaMind) while I got some stuff one.  Nice.  Then did get some time to chill with E before he left.

Worst Part of the Day - Sweet ole Q was a real sour today in preschool.  He told the teachers 'no' when asked to clean up.  Then when they asked him again he said "NO I won't because it's not mine!"  When they explained to him that everyone helps no matter if it is theirs or not, he said "no I won't" and stomped off.  Hmmm.  So no computer today and he is to apologize tomorrow.   But I have to admit that this does sound more like a child with my DNA than his usual sweet demeanor.

Sunday November 7, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Hands down it was Bellinis at Maggianos!  They are blended there - so it's like a slushy peach mess o' goodness.  Also the company (Ann and another friend) was fun and funny.  Much noshing and drinking and even a little shopping.  It lasted from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.  JUST what I needed.  Double sigh.

Worst Part of the Day - Erik's pal decided to stay over another night ... am missing my alone time with my sweet.  Feel like we've barely gotten to see each other this weekend.

Saturday November 6, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Working out and then hanging out with Erik, his pal and the littles.

Worst Part of the Day - I had a terrible night sleep due to being woke up by Wes several times, Erik several times and the high school pal once ... boooooooooooooooo!!!  Good thing it twas Daylight Savings, eh?

Friday November 5, 2010

Worst Part of the Day - Went to a brand new children's museum which is lovely and super, playtime fun. But when leaving Quinn just could NOT pull it together - he wanted to stay so very badly and could not 'transition'.  It truly was about the worst I've EVER seen him behave.  AND since I was riding with a friend and her littles, I could not abort mission and simply take his arse home.  Exhausting having to deal with it.

Best Part of the Day - Erik home and then one of his high school pals come on over.  So we ordered in food and had some cocktails (well actually just Erik and I had cocktails - mama needed some wine after that whine today).  Very relaxing and fun.

 

Thursday November 4, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Rainy day, boyz in their rooms with individual DVD players and some general laying about.  Then board games galore while we were snuggled in warm and dry ... sigh.

Worst Part of the Day - Young males a tich stir crazy by the end of the day and therefore mama a tich crazy.

Wednesday November 3, 2010

Worst Part of the Day - A wee bit chilly for mama to be outside - I'm in fleeces upon fleeces and my boyz are running about in long sleeve shirts and shorts.  Wes is hot blooded, check it and see, sweats like a grown man and he's only three.  And Quinn just heads inside to warm up from time to time.  But I wish to craft and read books inside .... this never seems to work for my high energy males.

Best Part of the Day - The day is done and both boyz are bathed and in bed.  I hear the pitter patter of one child on the stairs.  I hear him head into the kitchen and then a face (Quinn) pops into the office.  He comes over with his water bottle in hand, kisses me and says "goodnight!"  Then he skips upstairs.  No yelling for me to get the water bottle, no whining that he doesn't know where it is, and a goodnight kiss to boot - parenting moment to savor.

Tuesday November 2, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Made it to the gym and worked my arse out.

Worst Part of the Day - So DAMN sore from yesterday's workout that my back kicks were more like shin kicks and my roundhouses were more like ovals .... or something.  But I got through it - whew.

Saturday November 6, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Headed out for friends' wedding reception (they eloped in Greece in August) and it was super duper fun to see fun, funny peeps--old and new. Dancing and drinking with good friends is enjoyable! Smiles.

Worst Part of the Day-
After my long night of workin it, got the kiddies up for Saturday sports. Liam did not want to play b-ball today at 8:30am. He may have touched the b-ball twice in the 45 min class. Just as Scarl's gymnastics class was about to start, I got another page for "emergency" case. Ended up working much of this fine, fine day.

Friday November 5, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Will-O is in town so this allowed for me to work all day (he collected kids), prep yummy treat for book club and meet with my feminist friends. Almost met drinkie friends out for cocktails post-b.c., but...

Worst Part of the Day-
So I'm on call this fine evening...as I pull up to fave watering hole, Houligan's, I get a page. It is nearly 11pm---eeek. Got called in for an emergent case...home by 2am. Arrrgggh.

Thursday November 4, 2010

Best Partt of the Day-
So cushy to go to job #1 where I make my own hours and can crank out work while searching online for the cheap cruises...

Worst Part of the Day-
I have not read in awhile...I have Book Club tomarra. Doh.

Wednesday November 3, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Gettin going on my holiday shopping...highly atypical for this one...

Worst Part of the Day-
Well, the state of Wisconsin has voted. I hope is works.

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Tuesday November 2, 2010

Worst Part of the Day-
Took my ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Saving) renewal course today. From the get go, it was super stra-essssssssful. The instructor was one of these hard core nursie types. It was intense as you had to do the typical written exam and then an oral piece where you ran the code. INTENSE.

Best Part of the Day
-
I passed both written and oral with 100%. (But still not fun.) I text Will-O and offered to take the fam out for Mexican this eve (so I could slam a margarita and shove chips and salsa on in...) It was fun to be with the kids and they were well-behaved. A much improved dining experience.

November 1, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Hitting the sacker-ooo this chilly eve.

Worst Part of the Day-
So Will-O received Packer tickets for this coming Sunday's game (from little ol moi) for this B-day. He wants to take me, but I just don't see it happening as we can't really have a conversation without tension. I just don't understand his: parenting style, nutrition choices, sleeping pattern, energy level or negativity. How can we go to a Packer game??

Sunday October 31, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Happy Halloween!! Kids officially wore 3 different costumes this year. Today Will-O took the kids trick-or-treating in our hood in the early afternoon and then (costume change) self and 2 kids went to Cuz K's for our annual tradition. This year K. was full on with spooky yard, edible body parts, mad scientist lab, fire pit and the like. Fun. Mu-hahahahahah.

Worst Part of the Day-
Scarlet was a pill for 3 minutes as she refused to wear key pieces of her pirate costume. Liam was a self-admitted "worst trick-or-treater ever". He went to 3 houses (this year he did wear costume, at least) and then just wanted to play. This was challenging as Scarlet had a goal to hit as many houses in the alloted 2 hour time frame. Just not possible when I am only one...
(Cuz K. took one look at me walking up in my furry bear outfit and said, "hungover, I see." Classic.)

Also, after Cuz K.'s party zone (kids melting down and all) we had yet another spooky yard gathering to hit up. Went to friend, L.'s, for a bit and the kids were then geared up with a second wind and a wee bit challenging to exit. Ah, the holidays make me veer from my militant bedtime schedule.

Happy Birthday to Cousin Amy. What a fabulous day you have chosen!!! Happy year.

Saturday October 30, 2010

Best Parts of the Day-
1. The kids started their fall sports: Liam-basketball, Scar-gymnastics. It was a high energy morn of sporty spices. Liam got such a kick that Will-O, sis and I were cheering him on the sidelines.
2. Heading to an amazing Halloween party downtown. My friend, D.'s, downtown on the river loft is simply the best. Fab costumes and super festive party all in all.

Worst Part of the Day-
1. Well being up from 6am-4am the next day is never a great idea after working 60 hours that week. Oh my. Fun comes with a price.
2. Vague recollections of canoodling in the corner of crazy Hallo party....what??

Friday October 29, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Went over to Cuz K.'s for her B-day celebration this eve. It was a fantastic, mini-affair.
The kids handled it well when I just got home from work, quickly showered and left again. We are all growing, perhaps.

Worst Part of the Day-
Just doing the double job thang...

Thursday October 28, 2010

Worst Part of the Day-
Left hospital job at 7pm (should leave round 4) due to MAYHEM.

Best Part of the Day-
Since I no longer have the usual wants and needs of the normal human, I really didn't care about working late or all night. I was simply sooooooooooooooooooooo pleased that Will-O was home with kids and I didn't have to apologize and rush and huff and puff and to whomever would have been watching my kids if Will-O were out o' town. WHEW. And no sweat.
(I am a super geek.)

Wednesday October 27, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Only 1 job to attend allowed me to snooze in til 7am. Sheer delight as it is super windy and freezing outside.

Worst Part of the Day-
A hospital co-worker injured her back and may be out for weeks...and we all may have to pick up her call...arrrgggh.

Tuesday October 26, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Will-O home to collect kiddies. It IS easier.

Worst Part of the Day-
I am starting to have actual human emotions again. Is this a diffuse "loneliness" or a general "missing" of a partner that I feel??

Monday October 25, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Cuz K. watched the kidlets this eve during my doc rounds as Will-O remains in Nebraska-ish area. Thank heavens for her! I was even 40 minutes late and she didn't seem to notice or mind...

Worst Part of the Day-
Received several phone calls from out of town peeps asking me if I thought Will-O was o.k. Huh. Well, no. But it just may not be my issue at this juncture, freeends.

Sunday October 24, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Carved pumpkins with kids for a moment and then mostly Cousin S. Thanks! S. brought pumpkin/chocolate chip bread fresh from her oven! The kids were rampin it up for this fun visitor.
Pumpkin seeds a roastin and jack-o-laterns a flashin this night.

Worst Part of the Day-
Kids kinda nuts at various parts of this fine day.


Happy B-Day to Cousin Becky!!

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Monday November 1, 2010

Worst Part of the Day - Took my first power class in two weeks and thought I might DIE.  BRUTAL.  Going to be good n' sore manana.
Also had to turn on the heat today ... it's getting downright chilly at night.

Best Part of the Day -  Took boyz to tennis lessons today and Quinn did such a good job of listening and following directions.  His backhand form looked pretty dern good.  Wes just tried to hit the ball as hard as he possibly could at ALL times - even when Coach Chris said "hit it soft, like baby."  "Baby?" scoffed Wes.  "I'm no baby."  And he whammed it.  We had a little talk afterward, but he still thought his way was correct.  A father said to me "is that child really 3?  That's the biggest 3 year old I've ever seen.  He's going to be 6'9"!!"  Um - I kind of hope not.

Sunday October 31, 2010

Happy Halloween!!!  And Happy B-Day to Cousin Amy.  Ahhh to be young again ;)

Worst Part of the Day - Took a boat ride with Chris, Carson, Erik and our boyz.  The day was gorgeous - sunny and warm with a light breeze.  The worst part was the three hyped up boyz who would not sit still or listen or stop bouncing.  Even a dunk in the water (after falling off the tube) did not slow them down ...  much.  It was funny to watch - Wes and Carson just started yelling and crying.  Quinn calmly paddled toward the tube and held onto it until he was pulled in.  

Best Part of the Day - Boyz totally into Halloween and it was so fun to watch!  They ran from house to house and gathered pounds o' candy.  Erik a sight to see as a 6'3" tin man ... looked very freaky deaky.  Quinn was very clear when asked that he was an EYE doctor.  In fact he told me I needed a patch - which was appropriate as I was dressed as a pirate.  Then both kidlets enjoyed handing out candy to kiddos at the door.  Our neighbors once again set up their haunted house on their lawn so we could watch the kiddos screaming up the lawn to our house.  So much fun.  

Saturday October 30, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Birthday party at a jump house/arcade place.  Then off to pumpkin patch/hay ride deal with Chris, Ann and the kiddos.  Then to Chris and Ann's house so the kiddos could play.  Stopped at a restaurant on the way home so Quinn could have a second dinner.  Seriously - the appetite of my two preschoolers is somewhat out of control.  May have to just buy them a season pass to Golden Corral for the high school years.  Home by 8:45 p.m. to watch back to back Survivors on the couch with Erik.  We left the house at 9:45 a.m. so it twas a long one.  But sigh - so nice to home on that couch with E!!

Worst Part of the Day - Lots o' bitching and moaning from the kiddos in the car .... someone was constantly unhappy about SOMEthing.  Feel like I'm the sweet Georgia peach living with all these sour lemons.  Now I just pucker my lips at the offending one.

Friday October 29, 2010

Best Part of the Day - My friend M had her annual Halloween playdate in her backyard.  Everyone brings a food or drink item, kiddos dress up and it's controlled chaos with 30 some littles and their parents.  Boys had a super fun time running around (and I do mean literally running) for four plus hours.  Then brought Miss Bella aka Snow White home for more fun.  

Worst Part of the Day - Erik supposed to be home early - but ended up being late :(  Then he left for a basketball game and the boyz were very sad.  Wes wanted to be SURE that he was coming back.

Thursday October 28, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Met up with some pals and then we headed over to the preschool Halloween party. Super cute and hilarious fun to watch the littles in their school setting.  And always so pleased to see mama (any mama "Hey Quinn - your MOM is here!)  Quinn very pleased to be eating S's (that's skittles).  Wes very pleased to be eating whatever he could get his grubby paws on.  He later asked for a haircut thinking it might get him another sucker.

Worst Part of the Day - Have much organizing to do around this here house - how did so much junk get shoved in the boys' closets??  Also (yes dead horse is still being beaten) I feel sick.  Tried of it.

Wednesday October 27, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Feeling better - but still hacking and stuffy.  When o when will this end?

Worst Part of the Day - Workout left me feeling breathless - lack of ability to breath out my nose or just too much non-gymming?  Then I forgot that I had to make treats for the kiddo's Halloween party tomorrow.  While mixing up the orange frosting I could not figure out why it was salmon pink.  Red and yellow make orange, right?  I keep adding more color and then finally look at the box ... had bought pastel colors so I was amixin' yellow and pink.  Had to run up to HT to get more frosting.

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Tuesday October 26, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Great night sleep last night - starting to feel better.  Met some pals for a quick coffee (tea for me).  Had to hit the gym - whoa!  

Worst Part of the Day - Parents left early this morning :(  Thanks for ALL the help!!!  Major fight with our Inernet provider regarding the fact that I realized our wireless internet might not be secure (it wasn't).  They were very blase about the whole thing and then tried the whole "well, you should have called when you realized ..." and that's when I started to get really pissy.  SEE the thing is if you'd have done your job then I wouldn't have to realize.  To their credit, they remained very, very calm through my tirade.  I'm sure the word 'bitch' is now in my file, but a lesson from 2010 is that being bitchy gets results.  HOWEVER, the wisdom is to know when bitch will work and when sweet as pie will work.  Guess you should start out with the pie and if that doesn't work, serve up a big ala mode o' beeeayatch.

Quinn - This morning Quinn crawled in my bed, held my hand and said "I'm glad your are home, mama." Awww.

Monday October 25, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Walked around Boston for a couple hours prior to my flight.  Then had another excellent flying day - no one in my row, ten minutes early and bag waiting for me.  My dad picked me up and we were off to home.  Hugs to the boyz!!  My parents seemed calm and well rested and happy, happy, joy, joy.  They didn't complain about ANYthing and only said how much fun it had all been.

Worst Part of the Day - Mama tired and ready to get back to my (somewhat) healthy lifestyle.  My bed is acallin' my name.

the Boyz - When I walked in, Wes practically jumped into my arms.  He kept looking at me as if to check if it was really me and then hugging me tight.  Quinn took one look at me and said "but I don't WANT GiGi to leave!!"  I missed you too, buddy :)

Sunday October 24, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Up late and more chatting over a leisurely breakfast - some people had spent the night.  Then we met up with a few more pals and then drove back to Boston in rain that was close to freezing - brrrr.  Then just hung out with Joe and Stacy and cutie Baby Bro for the rest of the day.

Worst Part of the Day - Can't wait to be able to chew food without feeling like I'm going to pass out - hard to keep your mouth closed when you can't breath out your nose. 

Saturday October 23, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Erik had a class in the morning so I got to hang out with Joe, Stacy and the ever adorable Baby Bro.  Brogan is in the hilarious 'Frankenstein' stage - the walk with stiff legs and arms out in front.  He is timely as it's almost Halloween.  After Erik's class we drove up to Concord, NH where we lived for two years to hang out with some old friends.  It was so much fun - we got to hang out and eat and chit chat with everyone.  There was a bonfire and a wood stove and people covered in blankets ... man, it's cold up there :)

Worst Part of the Day - Um, yes.  I do still have this cold and it really, really sucks not being able to breathe (but sinus pressure is lessening).

Friday October 22, 2010

Worst Part of the Day - Still feeling like my teeth are going to fall out and as if someone is tightening a metal strap around my head.

Best Part of the Day - Erik had a late class so we leisurely got up and wandered over to Copley Place.  Then lunch with Erik and Joe.  On the way back to Erik's class we randomly ran into the wife of one of Erik's best pals from Dental School.  She was there with her seriously adorable three girls (11, 8, 5).   Erik had NO idea the friend was there and would probably have missed him if not for running into his wife.  We met them for cocktails that evening and then off to dinner with Erik's cousin and her husband.  We all had SO much fun together - one of those dinners you don't stop laughing.

Thursday October 21, 2010

Worst Part of the Day - Now my cold seems to be a sinus pressure deal - my teeth feel like they are going to fall out and there is immense pain from my nose on up.

Best Part of the Day - Walk with Erik to Copley Place where his Continuing Education deal is taking place.  Then I walk through Copley Place mall, meet bro Joe for lunch and continue on to Newbury Street. I walk and walk and walk and get a little lost in the cold rain, but still in high spirits.  Home to Joe and Stacy's for delish sushi dinner and then off to bed.

Wednesday October 20, 2010

Worst Part of the Day - Back feels a bit better today - but cold is worsening.


Best Part of the Day - Some minor errands with my parents while the kiddos were in school.  Then from school directly to swim lessons which went well - the teacher seems to be from an Eastern Bloc country and takes no crap.  Slightly hardcore for preschool swim lessons, but all good.  Had the best flying karma EVER - my own row, flight was 40 minutes early (!) and bag waiting on carousel when I walked down to baggage.  Cabbed to Joe and Stacy's place in Boston and dropped off luggage and chatted.  Then off to the fancy, dancy Taj (the old Ritz) to meet Erik's aunt and uncle.  Martinis and hilarity ensued until midnight.

Tuesday October 19, 2010

Worst Part of the Day - Woke up today with my upper back killing me and with the start of a cold.  The worst part of that cold is that I was not fully over the last cold which had started about two weeks ago.  BOO to the HISS.   Supposed to team teach this evening at the gym and had to cancel which made me feel terrible - but there was no way in the Hades I could swing it.

Best Part of the Day -  Parents arrived!  Kiddos psyched and the guest room was totally ready (no longer does it have books all over the floor, cardboard boxes on the bed and a stuffed closet.)  Quinn gave big hugs and Wes said "where are my presents?"  Sigh. 

Monday October 18, 2010

Worst Part of the Day - Upper back in a good amount of pain.  Still on painkillers but fuzzy about addiction - just makes me sleepy and doesn't really get rid of all the pain anyway.

Best Part of the Day - Took Erik's mom on a little 'look what we have in Charlotte' shopping tour.  Okay, okay so it was just IKEA and Trader Joe's.  But she was very impressed with IKEA - come on, weren't you your first time?  The best part was that even though we were under time constraints - only had until 12:50 p.m. as we had to pick up Quinn - she was slow as molasses.  There is just no rushing the Reitters.  It gave me a giggle as Erik was just so amazed at how slow she was.  Heh heh heh. 

Sunday, October 24, 2010

Saturday October 23, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
1. Took kiddies to perfecto Halloween party at the Y. Games, Trick or Treating, bounce house, dancing and crafts. They had a blast!! Scarlet was the cutest dog ever and Liam was a most hilarious duck.
2. Scarlet had a "Girls' Night Overnight" at Cuz K.'s with bestie cousin, Abbey. Toooo cute. And lovin the Mama-son time.

Worst Part of the Day-
Kids a tad whiney early in the day...seriously?
Also, yes October B-day fam, I will get a small trinket to ya by the end of the calendar year...eek.

Friday October 22, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Went to get my hair did at fave Aveda place. Luvie.

Worst Part of the Day-
Had to, had to, had to take Scarlet to a mandatory work training on teen suicide. Though she was in the hallway (2 feet away from my in my direct sight) doing homework throughout the 70 minute ordeal, she asked many questions after about the self-destructive teen. Seriously, oh my.

Thursday October 21, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Took Scarlet to new Pediatrician today for 7 year-old Well Child Check-up. Mostly well. On target.

Worst Part of the Day-
Scarlet wants to be an escaped convict for Trick or Treat next week. She has the whole concept: black and white striped jumpsuit, ball and chain on ankle, hand cuffs on one wrist and a bad of money in the other hand. Can I really censor her Halloween costumes at age 7?? Plus, do they make black and white jumpsuits in a size 7?

Wednesday October 20, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Acquired Hallo costume for myself. Alright, alright. Not super avant-garde, but at least I won't offend others this year...

Worst Part of the Day-
So Little L. hid my stupid car keys again this morn. This time I was 10 mins late for work. And yes, this does matter and is highly noticed in the factory-like punch-in hospital jobs....arrrrgggg.

Tuesday October 19, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
1. Will-O was here to cover my evening of on call status. Yes, it is a lame Best Part, but it is a relief not to fret about what if I get called in at 3am? Really, I would wake the kids and drive them to a relative's home??
2. Did confirm that Will-O will be around to for kid coverage so I can attend costume party next week. A little socializing por moi???

Worst Part of the Day-
A little nurse cat fight at the hospital job. Why do I always have to be Miss Assertive and let's talk about it and clear the air?? Well, cause it works. Oh my.

Monday October 18, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
1. Doing my L.L. CPR instructor impersonation to my hospital chaps.
2. Secured 95% of Liam's Halloween costume.

Worst Part of the Day-
1. Dumb 14 hour work day.
2. Scarlet left her bike beyond the garage in the alley and it no longer sits it the alley. Goodbye.

Happy Birthday Brother T.!!! Thanks for being a perfect older bro. Margaritas on the veranda soon!!!

Sunday October 17, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
I am now your friendly CPR Instructor. Read the books, taught a mock class and passed the test!
I truly learned a lot in this course and have some fun tactics on teaching the adult learner. Woo-hoo.
Funny quips in a southern accent per my L.L. teacher: As she was trying to illuminate involuntary muscle contractions--"Have y'all ever chopped a snake in two?" "Have y'all ever pulled off a lizards tail?" Ahhh, no and no. "Then no to cutting off a chicken's head, then?" Ahhh, correct.

Worst Part of the Day-
Well, despite my clear instructions that I had to attend class from 8am-5pm, Will-O was MIA at 7:30am and 7:45 and 8am. I called my L.L. instructor and told her my plight and she said in her Tennessee way, "Well, just bring the kids! It'll be fun." So, I plastered a fake smile on and told the kids plans had changed and we were going to the Best Western conference room with some coloring books and DVD's and yippee, isn't life grand?? The kids really did think it was grand. Then when I received a call from Will-O at 8:45am, the kids were sad to be collected from the super cool Best Western (which was also housing a child pageant and a train fest this fine Sunday...) Shenanigans, I tell ya. And heart palpitations and icky flashbacks of yesteryear...

(Do y'all see why I don't like to count on others named Will-O?"

Saturday October 16, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Started Day 1 of CPR Instructor Training. Man, was I not in the mood for 2 days of 8-hour classes after my 56 hour work week. But man oh man, did it rock! The instructor is a presence and a character! A female from Tennessee who started the class of with, "Obviously I'm a large lesbian..." Oh my. The class total was a motley crew of 4 female RN's: my bad self, 25 year-old cardiology RN from the Philippines, 60 year-old African-American with the Red Cross, and 50 year-old Canadian teacher of early childhood for 30 years who just became RN. We got along famously!
Anyhoo, the instructor was smart, funny and taught amazingly well. Downright fun.

Worst Part of the Day-
In my attempts to separate myself from Will-O, I made a conscious decision to not attend band show tonight in Bayview. I know it will be a goodun...and the show is in honor of/memory of Cousin Joey...errrrrr.

Friday October 15, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Laying er down for rest.

Worst Part of the Day-
Just the standard stupidness of this single-mom-dom and 2 jobs thang...

Happy Birthday to Sista Al!!! Wishing you a year of calm, comfort. (Is that poss??) Luv ya!!

Monday, October 18, 2010

Sunday October 17, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Got our boat in the water and took a late afternoon ride.  There was tubing (the kiddos and Nana - what a sport!)  And wake boarding - by the elder Reitter boys.  Sunny and warm when the boat was not moving - fleece weather when the boat was speeding along.  All in all a great day on the lake!!

Worst Part of the Day - Had to teach my Centergy class today and I am hurting!!  Man oh man.  Took some strong pain meds (I didn't even take pain meds after childbirth.  Seriously.)  I don't know that I could become addicted - made me feel like throwing up at one point.  Ugh.

Hopeful End of the Mouse Story - Fessed up to Erik regarding the dead mouse in the wall.  We laughed and then he said "let's just go look for the mouse."  Okay - but I know it's in the wall.  Erik opens the door and in five seconds has located a dead mouse on the floor behind a box.  What the .... I may be going insane ya'll.  Good thing I was Lysoling and odor controlling in the wrong direction (up) - not to mention not removing the source of the smell.  OH my.

Saturday October 16, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Launched Centergy this morning and it went just fine.  Then a late afternoon visit to Chris and Ann's as Johanna was in town.  Kiddos played together so very nicely.

Worst Part of the Day - Might have torn or strained a muscle today ... it really, really hurts.  Such a bummer.  Also the minivan would not start ... corroded battery was the problem.  Took Erik and I at least one hour to change it out.  He swears his car only takes about five minutes, I was just pleased that the new battery seemed to solve the problem.  Best car problem you can have - just about.

Friday October 15, 2010

Worst Part of the Day - Left the house at 8:45 a.m. and got back at 3:30 p.m.  With kiddos the entire time - think I might go CRAZZZZZZZZ.

Best Part of the Day - Picked up Quinn's glasses and they are adorable!  He is sooo super cute in them.  Erik home!!

Thursday October 14, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Got my hair cut (chopped!) by this most excellent stylist who was recommended to me by several well coifed women at my gym.  She was super cool and did a great job.  And when I went to pay she said "that will be $15."  Um - is this Super Cuts or something??  Shockingly low price for a salon.  Also did enjoy it when the woman cutting my hair thought I was 30!?!   And yes, this will reflect in your tip.

Worst Part of the Day - Neglecting your children to learn Centergy is NOT doing to get you that Mother of the Year award.  Also left my days old iTouch at the coffee shop I stopped at before my haircut.  Thank GOD it was still there when I went back.  DAMN I am scattered.

Wednesday October 13, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Super hilarious, energetic, informative and, dare I say, mysterious three way chat with Cuz Pate and KEG.  It cracked me up completely and left me baffled ....
Also did an IKEA run with my two kiddos and an extra child - aren't I sooo amazing??  Okay, okay, I threw all three in the excellent child care and went about my shopping.

Worst Part of the Day - SO several days ago I opened up our back storage area in our basement and saw a (gasp!) tail of an animal climbing up and over the wall.  Erik went out and bought traps, but I got some poison instead.  I laid it on down and then just tried not to think about it.  When Erik asked if I had put down the traps, I said "no, I put down poison instead."  And he said "well, then they can die in the walls and stink up the place."  And I said "no, they go outside to die."  He looked at me and said "well maybe."  Today I went downstairs to the MOST horrific smell - oh man.  One died in the wall!  I am odor removing constantly.

Tuesday October 12, 2010

Worst Part of the Day - Back still nagging me - booo.   Trying to get my house organized seems like a losing battle - every time I clean one area, I see more to be done.   Not to mention the rats de rug are constantly undoing my efforts.  

Best Part of the Day - Dare I say that learning this new Centergy release is easy sleazy this time around?  Am I getting better or just more careless?  Hmmmm.

Monday October 11, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Relaxing and super fun day as Erik was home until mid-afternoon.  Much biking and scooting and outdoor fun hooray.

Worst Part of the Day - My downtime this week will be spent learning the new Centergy release ... wishing to just watch MadMen, but instead will be downward dogging.  Bet Don could do an entire sun salutation with a smoke in his mouth.

Sunday, October 17, 2010

Wednesday October 14, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Kinda a fine day at hospital job. Funny, funny work peeps.

Worst Part of the Day-
Felt like absolute shi-ite from 5am-noon (chills, shaking, needing to be in fetal position under warm covers but instead was upright wearing scrubs caring for others...). Worked 8 hours at hospital and then had atypical doc rounds at job #1 this eve (I think Columbus Day threw off Dr.) until 9:30pm. Help my tired bones...

Tuesday October 13, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Started teaching a breast cancer unit as October as in breast cancer awareness month and all. The girls (and staff) are interested and therefore listening and absorbing and engaged. (That's a change.)

Worst Part of the Day-
Oddly I have begun Christmas shopping for my chilluns (and Christmas card perhaps done...what the???) but the 6 October B-days in my fam I am waaaay off. Eeek. My B-day organization has never been suckier.

Monday October 12, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
It's always a more relaxing day when I go solely to job #1...the little things that please. Will-O is also on the scene and it is easier with another.

Worst Part of the Day-
I declare I am having a feminine issue. Non-fun.

Sunday October 11, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Found car keys in Liam's bottom dresser drawer! (The 2 prior places of the lost keys were: in the toaster and in the washing machine. Now I may be on the the obscure hiding places of my young son...) Slept and slept and slept in. Did a lil workie and then headed to my parentals to collect the chilluns. Went to the BEACH (October in Wisconsin, friends...) and had a simple, fresh meal.

Worst Part of the Day-
Perhaps the gang kept me out 3 hours later than I should've been...
Also washed and folded and put away 5 loads of wash. It simply takes oh so much energy and time to keep up on this craziness...(how do the mom's of 6 pull this off??? I understand a lil wine and a lot of Adderall...)

Saturday October 9, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Alrighty--my mom scooped up the kiddies for an overnight. MY LORD IN HEAVEN! Do I need this. Yes, I worked much of the day (biked there and back), but I also exercised, cleaned in peace, napped, Californication-ed, cooked organic yumminess in peace and met my gang out for overdue drinks/eats.
YES.

Worst Part of the Day-
So I was going to meet my mom halfway betwixt our homes this morn (as she is totally helping me, for goodness' sake...) and once the kiddies and their 3 pieces o' luggage each were out of the house, I realized I could not located my car keys anywhere. I scoured the home and they were simply no where to be found. My car was also blocking the other care, so we were nice and stuck...sorry momma...
Arrrrgggghhh.

Monday, October 11, 2010

Sunday October 10, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Erik and I got some nagging house projects done.  Then I made him and the boyz go to a Home Show.  And it was AWESOME - so fun for the kiddos (candy, water bottles) and we just got to walk around and look at cool stuff.  Then Jeep was having this event - kiddos could drive small Jeeps and rock climb.  And then we took a test drive that was kind of freaky - it was supposed to show you how the car handles on tough terrain.  So there were huge bumps and angles where you felt like the car was going to tip over and then a HUGE hill.  And both boyz are just bouncing up and down with no car seats - nice.

Worst Part of the Day - I know it's hard for kiddos to transition when they are having fun - but really the amount of crying and whining from the littles is a bit hard to take.  Just be happy you had some fun - don't concentrate on the fun being taken away.  DAMN it's annoying.  Then Wes took a nap and woke up so bitter.  Third time this week!  Reminds me of a year ago when it used to happen EVERY DAY.  Can't go back there - will go insane.


Saturday October 9, 2010

Worst Part of the Day - Now I'm really not feeling well - coughing, stuffed up, sinus pressure.  Blah.

Best Part of the Day - My iTouch came yesterday and I am officially obsessed.  It can play Netflix movies and be a reader like a Kindle.  I can check my e-mail and FB and surf the web all while making breakfast.  Love, love, love it.
Dinner out tonight and the babysitter (male) was so great with the kiddos!  There were train tracks built all over the basement when we got home.  Love it.

Friday October 8, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Erik home - littles super pumped up.  If I am a B list movie celeb in their world, he is now the top o' the A list.  He gives them Vitamin Waters and takes them on scooter rides (I refuse as they don't listen).  Not to mention he is a boy.  Quinn said the other day he wished that I could be a boy.

- also had Q's pediatric ophthalmologist appointment today.  So he can barely see out of his left eye (!).  It's called Amblyopia (yes, people do call it 'lazy eye' but Dr. D doesn't seem to like that term).  He has to wear glasses all the time and a patch for two hours each day.  This will try to get the brain to start using the left eye.  Dr. D said that it was so good we caught it so young as it is correctable.  Yes, that is good - but how could we have not known he can't see out of that left eye??!!  I guess the body really does do some amazing compensation.  Oh and his glasses are soooo cute - he looks adorable.  Unlike when my brother had to wear glasses and looked a like real nerd.  Styles have changed.  

Worst Part of the Day - This slight cough I've had all week is suddenly very productive and I have sinus pressure and am completely stuffed up.  Booooo.

Thursday October 7, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Kidnapped my friend J who was suddenly free - she's been pretty much running the local elementary school since school began.  Amazing what these Stay at Home mamas do for the school system - in a way I think it's admirable and in a way I think "hell, you should get paid for that jazz."  She rode around with me while I ran errands and then we met Ann and M for lunch.  I had tofu lettuce wraps and they were the highlight o' me week.  De to the LISH.

Worst Part of the Day - Lots of yelling and not much listening in the household.  Yesterday Wes announced "I got put in time out TWICE today."  Congrats, friend.  Today he had a "Great Job" sticker and got treasure box.  He's up and then he's down, he's in then he's out.   He's wearing me out.  I don't know if he could ask more questions every day.  Some I don't even understand - but you have to be very careful not to just answer 'yes' to something as it might be "sure you can go to Chuck E. Cheese tomorrow" and he WILL remember.  

Wednesday October 6, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Impromptu outing with friend C - she's so very fun to hang out with and has this positively perfect eight month old who she can tote with her like a baby doll.    And he's so light to carry, unlike my 45 lb sweet n sours.  But then I remember C preggo last year and how J and I would always look at her and look at each other and say "Glad it's not ME."  Not to mention that my last baby doll was more like a Colicky Colin than and Sweet Susie.

Worst Part of the Day - Getting more and more estimates for stupid things like - foundation issues and dock staining.   Home ownership can really blow.

Friday October 8, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Took the kiddies out to din...they were perfecto.
Oh and my personal Californication marathon. Oh my, do I love that!

Worst Part of the Day-
Rushin round the end of day...


Thursday October 7, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Had parent-teacher conferences after school today. Grand report for Mizz S. Refreshing to have your child LOVE school and LA-hoooove her teacher. This teacher is pretty amazing: dedicated and super fantastic with kids (perhaps how they all should be--but are not.) I am also thinking that the teach and I could have some fun conversations over wine...she's cool.

Worst Part of the Day-
I thought parent-teacher conferences might be 10 minutes long. We chatted for 1 hour 10 mins and would've kept going save for the fact that I was laaaaaate to get Liam. More rushing (and speeding) and huffin and puffin. Geez.

Wednesday October 6, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Snuggling up with me sweets. They are such lova's!!

Worst Part of the Day-
Rushing around post-work to cellect Miss S. downtown and then grab Lil L. westside. Fighting heavy traffic both ways. Got a lil pulled ova by policia. Doh. I promptly grabbed by RN i.d. and my driver's license and handed both to police man and gave the "I'm on-call tonight..." He was clearly impressd with my RN deal and said, "I don't want to make you late. Tell everyone that not all cops are jerks." Gave slap on wrist and I was off! Not alllll cops are jerks, indeed.

Scarlet asked when she saw the police lights, "Are we all going to jail tonight?" Oh my.

Tuesday October 5, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Today was the gorgeous fall day of my littles' gorgeous fall photo shoot. We planned to meet the photographer on the grounds of St. Francis Seminary in Bayview. A perfect setting with crunchy leaves and sunny sun. The kids did alllllright.

Worst Part of the Day-
I guess I should've just scheduled this on a day when Will-O was out of town. And perhaps on a day off completely so I could've gussied up. A weeee bit o' stress may have led me to look a weee bit of faking me smiles...
I had to work my standard 8 hours and asked Will-O to have the kids bathed and ready to rock when I came in the door (we would have 15 minutes to get to the shoot.) The kids were bathed, but they were all in the basement watching a movie and then no one wanted to leave. Oh, but Liam was in undies only as I didn't lay out the outfit for him. Huh. So, late, late and whines and stress en route to shoot.
Several times I had to stress to the photographer to focus on the kids as Will-O suddenly had his shirt off and was rolling around in the grass with the momentarily clean and pressed kiddies. Then any time I stopped to fix Scarl's hair (I don't want to pay hundreds of dollars to get 80 pics of her with hair-covered face...) I would get a "don't contrive everything...let it be natural." (Yes, naturally contrived, my friend.) Please think more Christmas card photo and less Rolling Stone cover. Just this once. Semi-exhausting and not what I was going for (/paid for.)

Happy Special Day to Brother Mike!!!! I am glad you are not yet 30. That would cause me to freak out...I remember the day you were born. I was irked you were not a girl--but I'm glad you are you!

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Tuesday October 5, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Crisp, crisp day - chill in the air, warm sun.  Favorite time of the year is fall in the Carolina!   Kiddos loved seeing Nana and Papa even though the visit was too short.

Worst Part of the Day - Had to pick up  Erik's parents from the airport with the following instructions "the plane lands at 3:35 p.m."  So I circled the airport for at least 45 minutes.  Um next time they can call after going through customs :)  Glad they are home safe and sounds like an amazing trip.

Monday October 4, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Hearing from Wes about his day with Erik.  He is so hilarious to listen to - he talks a mile a minute and will correct himself and use phrases like "whatever" and "why did we do that again?"

Worst Part of the Day - Back still tweaked.  I can feel it getting better, but it still hurts!

Sunday October 3, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Took out the box o' Halloween decorations and the kiddos are PSYCHED up.  So fun.
Also a lazy day with a late in the day family walk - Erik, Clarence and I all walking, Quinn and Wes on scooters.  Americana.

Worst Part of the Day - Took out the box o' Halloween decorations and the kiddos mauled just about everything and made a huge mess and it was drama to get them to clean it up.  Then EVERYONE basically passed out (after said drama) and took a nap.

Saturday October 2, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Erik took littles to soccer and I hit le gym and then grocery store.  A late in the day boat ride (with fleeces!) was very invigorating and fun.

Worst Part of the Day - Must have tweaked my lower back - it is KILLING me.  When I'm at rest, it feels just fine.  But any sort of movement - egad!  Also took kiddos out to dinner after late in the day boat ride and they were fired up and antsy and the drinks took WAY to long to get to our table.  Next time - order in!!

Friday October 1, 2010

Happy Birthday to Scar the Dar!!!  Listen to yo mama, girl.  And everything will work out just fine.


Best Part of the Day - Met up with pal C and her two littles at the playground.  It was a gorgeous, warm, sunny day.  The kiddos played for over two hours.
Erik home!

Worst Part of the Day - I picked my face before the pimple was ready ... and now I have a huge scab on my face.  Lovely.  Also realized at 6 p.m. that something is wrong with our gas - cooktop,  hot water, heat. Called and was told that someone could be here Monday from 8 a.m. to Noon.  Hmmmm.  So Erik got on the phone and complained and then talked to a manager and suddenly - someone was dispatched to our home for the 2 minute fix.  So the moral of the story is - be a total bitch/dick and you will get better service.  Terrible, terrible lesson.

Thursday September 30, 2010

Best Part of the Day - Met my pal J during the day for some chit chatting.  You can feel it getting cooler - ready for some fall.

Worst Part of the Day - I think I have broken out more in the past five weeks than the past five years (and it might be more than five weeks ... my skin seems to have taken on the personality of a 16 year old.  But as an added kick in the ass, I also have wrinkles.  I don't know what is going on with my skinny, skin, skin.

Monday, October 4, 2010

Monday October 4, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
A rewarding day at the hospital...had an 80 year-old patient who looked as fit as a darn fit 60 year-old man. He was sweet and funny and just an all around cuteness. He said, "I just want to live a little longer so I can travel and run a marathon--maybe to 90." Inspiration.

Worst Part of the Day-
Just figured out I hadn't blogged in weeks...doh.

Sunday October 3, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Party time!! A successful, old school party zone from the hours of 1-4pm at the Cahill/O'Neill home. A bounce house (Cuz K!!), sidewalk chalk, spanking machine and duck, duck, goose for the kiddies and some Qdoba catering, wine and chatting for the grown-up set equalled fun for all. Special notes: Scarlet's teacher joined the gathering (and was mobbed by kids upon entering) and Terinel stayed a tad later with Wyatt-the-Cute so the 7 of us could hang out a little. Very enjoyable.
Scarlet was pleased as punch.

Worst Part of the Day-
By 6pm this party fun time mama was done-ski. Nighty.

Saturday October 2, 2010

Best Part of the Day-
Going to the gym. I relaxed, I ran. (I had a lil break from tending to others' needs.)

Worst Part of the Day-
Need a body double. Or a helper...is that called a partner/spouse person??

Speaking of spouse--I saw my friend, Matt, at the gym and when we were done talking I told him, "say hi to Nikki for me." Scarlet of course asked who was Nikki and 'cause I just wanted to get going and didn't think she knew the term I said, "his lovely spouse." Then Scarlet got quiet and spouted to Matt and me, "You know, if you eat a raw fish you will see your future spouse in your mind. I read that in a book." Ma lord.