Friday February 29, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

G-ma Barb came over this afternoon and brought the ingredients for homemade veggie pizza. Scarlet was the sous chef and had a grand time assembling the colorful dinner.  It was tasty and perfectly salted.  Afterward we had a mini dance party with the kids (which happens simply when there is music.)  Liam was feeling it.  When he hears any funky beats he starts doing a primitive circular head swirl (uh huh, uh huh) and then he starts stomping one foot to his own time signature. Priceless.

Worst Part of the Day-

Peeps, I need to get on the packing wagon.  We leave for out trip tomorra!

Also I just watched Dateline.  Why do all these creepy men kill (and chop up!) their wives?! Mylanta.  It's seriously a BIT much.  Just get a divorce ya fools.

Friday February 29, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - The movie Vantage Point. Erik and I went to see a matinee and OH MY. Actually the first half (maybe a tich more) was good and intriguing and made me hopeful. But then, alas, after the 25 minute wholly unbelievable car chase, I am to believe that these terrorists who will stop at NOTHING will veer off the road for .... well I won't tell you . And then watching Dennis Quaid emote with William Hurt in the manliest way possible actually caused me physical pain. But the premise is good and I bet if you read the script you'd think - "cool movie!" Too bad the special effect people had to hijack the film and too bad the ending went waaaay off the deep end. People in the theater actually laughed at the supposed to be powerful last words.

Best Part of the Day - Met with two other mamas for a playdate at the Kaleidoscope Museum. SB had a blast and was the perfect age for it. The IMP loved the lobby with the beautiful displays he could knock down or put in his mouth (oh does he love it when I don't want him to do something. SB didn't quite have that at 13 months.) Then we went to lunch. Erik called during lunch and since we were close decided to meet us. Right when he got there, the boyz started acting up. Erik scarfed his sandwich, stood up and said "I'll take the boyz home for their naps." (Cue superhero music and cape winging back in the wind.) The other two mamas gaped in wonder at Super Dad. So I got to sit there for an extra HALF HOUR and finish my salad and have another Diet Coke in peace (well relative peace as there were three other kiddos there - but it helps that they were not MINE.) It was delish and so lovely! Cheers to Erik!

Thursday February 28, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Went to gang member's house for dinner.  The house is adorable.  A charming bungalow that is cozy and inviting (with crazy unexpected nooks).  Lovely "Jersey-style" spaghetti and meatballs was prepared for us.  Delish.  A moderate amount of red wine and photo albums from the '90's in front of a crackling fireplace equated laughs and hanging into the not terribly late eve.  By the way, the cook this eve and owner of above cute home is a MALE--to all who must shatter gendertype issues...

Worst Part of the Day-

Had to (just had to) go to local fast food establishment and scarf down fake fish combo meal.  (To counteract last night's extra, extra dirty martini.)  It was a low point, indeed.  As I drove off I felt akin to a male leaving a house of ill repute.  Did what I had to do, but not feeling great about it.

Thursday February 28, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - The whiner 49er afternoon. The boyz were sooooo good for the entire morning, but after naps, not so much. Lots of crocodile tears and adorable mischief and wanting to play with things that should only be played with outside or not at all. UGH.

Best Part of the Day - We had a great, activity filled morning. Out the door at 8:40 a.m. To the Gym with the boyz happily in daycare (hooray!). (I did have another double diaper change - but IMP's bum looks nice n' white today.) Then off to Gymboree where we had a snack in the lobby, class at 10:55 and home by 12 noon. Lunch and naps! Whew. ALSO after working for several days with Stacia on tailoring my resume - it was submitted to Spitfire today!!! Hip Hip HOORAY!!!! Mama needs her a non-baby job for some balance!

Wednesday February 27, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Went to a fund-raiser for Gilda's Club (as in Ratner) which benefits cancer patients and their families and friends.  Gilda's Club is a free support group community (as I read the brochure now) with a host of things like book clubs, yoga, meditation, quilting, kid play groups and more.  It was at the fancy Pfister Hotel downtown and it featured 15 or so local restaurants with their special treats and yes, open bar.  My cousin/friend invited myself and my boss/friend--it was quite fun. Eating, swilling and talking (my favorite things!)  We were getting a titch too loud (and almost inappropriate) for the event so went to the swanky bar Blu on the 23rd floor of the hotel.  We had martinis and more while looking out at the skyline (there is one, I swear) and Lake Michigan.  

A special thank you to Will-O who watched all the kiddos so the ladies could enjoy.

Worst Part of the Day-

The icy, slushy, treacherous sidewalks everywhere!  (But mostly the walkways on our property that have been half-assedly shoveled for months now.)

Wednesday February 27, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Hmmm would it be Erik getting his car stuck at the bottom of our driveway? It took about 20 minutes to get him unstuck (with the help of our neighbor). The icy speed bump at the bottom of our driveway had increased by 5-fold over the night. And the Honda Accord just couldn't make it over .... are we in need of some 4 Wheel Drive cars or what? OR perhaps the worst part came when SB whipped a wooden block at my head. I have a knot and a headache. I'm not sure if he was just whipping it to whip it or was aiming for my head. Either way it HURT and for the rest of the day we worked on only throwing soft things. OH it's terrible to be snowbound!

Best Part of the Day - Getting some pampering plans in motion for the GR G-Ma trip. I so wish we could take her with us for the pedicures!! Hopefully we can get her out to lunch - but if not, we'll just have to bring some take out in to her. I think all the cousins are really looking forward to some time away .....

Tuesday February 26, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Is anyone tired of me talking about the weather all the time? Can't be as tired of me living it. The snow began right as I was leaving for the grocery store/work out. Oh Man (as Swiper would say. We just DVD'd a Dora for SB and he LOVES it. The downside is that he does weep for two minutes when it's over. But that's life kiddo.) Anyhoo - looks like the snow is going to turn to sleet and that means the icy speed bump at the bottom of the driveway will get PILED up due to the plows. Sigh. But as I've said before - we just need to get prepared and my husband is so anti.

Best Part of the Day - I realized today that the IMP has been happy and only mildly whiny/cry-y for about three weeks now. It is such a pleasure to have mornings where both boyz are usually very happy. Makes life sooooo sweet and sooo much easier.

Funny Note - I was at the gym waiting in line for my TNT class when suddenly I see a tall blond man swiping his card at the front desk. OH it's Erik! I start waving and grinning and almost jumping up and down. His face does not change and I think "oh he doesn't see me." Oh no - he saw me. His affect just didn't change. He came over and we chatted for a bit - seems he got off work early and also took advantage of the babysitter (as would I). Later I was telling him how funny/weird that was that he didn't even smile and he said "what? I came right over." And I said "hmmm I wonder why SB ignores us when we walk in? Where ON EARTH would he get that from?"

Tuesday February 26, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Three cheers for productivity and one shout out for a girl gettin all growed up--

I cleaned out my closet (man, is it clean!) and packed up 6 trash bags full of craziness for GoodWill.  I had a wonderfully productive day at work when it is usually very choppy and difficult to complete a task.  I also went to work-out!  Can it be?

As far as my growing girlie--whoa.  Scarlet is quite excited to turn 4 and 1/2 on April 1 (remember those good ol days?).  She keeps talking in terms of "when I'm 4 1/2 I will be able to..."   Will-O and I are opportunists and are therefore taking advantage of this notion and encouraging "When you are 4 1/2 you will keep your bed dry at night, no whining, finish your chores, etc."

At dinner this evening she was exquisitely mannered--"May I be excused?" and the whole nine.  When she and Liam were done eating but Will-O and I were not yet done, she maturely stated "Don't worry you two--I'll tend to Liam while you two finish eating in peace."  God love it.  After her bath tonight I told her how much I noticed and appreciate her fantastic behavior.  She said plainly "It's because bad manners are for babies...not someone ALMOST 4 1/2".  Keep it comin!

Worst Part of the Day-

My body weight has been pretty much unwavering since I was 17.  It's the changing shape that is disconcerting...not so much in this area--why do we have that THERE?  

Alas.  Does this mean I have to stop shopping at Forever 21?  

Neither Here Nor There-

(Since I was mildly obsessed with getting the movie and seeing it for the last 1.5 days...) I popped in Hard Candy the instant the kids went down.  I say good/weird--thumbs up. 

Monday February 25, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - I have the freakin' NORTH STAR on my forehead. Sigh - it is the only thing I can see when I look in the mirror (not that I look in the mirror all the often - actually just once day). But I can FEEL it. Its a hurtful one. The problemo is that when an acne product states "apply once per day" I figure that it is best to apply once each hour. So now there is a HUGE ring of red on my forehead. I think if I would have just left it alone it would look waaaay better now. However, maybe if I throw on some of my Forever 21 clothes and head on out someone will glance and mistake me for a teen mother. Note - must see "Juno" and memorize sassy remarks regarding teen pregnancy.

Best Part of the Day - The Ford Explorer is now GONE from our garage (so Erik can now actually park his car INSIDE the garage - novel!) A co-worker of Erik's decided they wanted it so we said our goodbyes yesterday and signed it on over. Whew - one less item is always a good thing in my book.

Monday February 25, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

On my way to work this late afternoon, I received a call that I would not be needed until about 6pm.  Doh--I already was showered, in the car, and child-free (a trifecta of freedom...what will I do with my bad self?!)  I must admit I felt like I was playing hooky.  (I did call Will-O to let him know--as to stave off guilt).  I went to the mall, bought a few cute things and went to see a flick.  Sinful. I saw No Country for Old Men (inspired by last night's Oscars and the fact I haven't seen any movies...)

Worst Part of the Day-

I looove going to the movies.  I like the darkness, the popcorn; the whole theater thing.  I feel like a kid in the 1950's--Oooooo, a picture show!! 

No Country for Old Men...hmmmm...intriguing and somewhat haunting--it seemed very Quentin Tarantino with all of the bloodshed.   I do not think it should have won best picture (even though I did NOT see any other of the nominated movies...so basically I should not comment.) 

I wanted much more from this film.

Sunday February 24, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Oh my - we were heading to a boat show in Manchester, NH (lesson learned? Never go to a boat show in a city that is NOT on some major water). Well Erik had directions that read "get off on exit 6." Hmmm - needless to say that we drove around with one child weeping (oh yes the IMP who has hated car rides since he was a mere teeny) for many, many minutes. When we finally found the place - we had to abort mission as there was no parking and it looked like a mini-venue. Hmmm - if this would have been me not knowing where we were going - there would have been a mini-lecture. But I decided to be a big person and not say a word. (I might bring it up later though - I mean REALLY!) We did end up at this diner and the boyz were fabulously behaved (SB loves to be at a restaurant and IMP could eat about everything on the menu).

Best Part of the Day - I'm watching the Oscars, drinking wine and I'm SO into it! When the sweet Irish couple won for best song? I actually clapped. I'm by myself and I'm clapping! And that Diablo Cody? I love her. Haven't seen Juno - but read an interview with her and she was boozing the entire time. Her speech was heartfelt and lovely. Now must run back to see best picture! I don't even have a fave as I've only seen Michael Clayton of the nominees. Man - I so weirdly love the Oscars!

Sunday February 24, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

When I checked my email this morn I received the most touching note from one of my best friends from college.  It was expressing what a true friend is and relayed how much FUN we have together--it was so unexpected and wonderful; it made be smile.  It makes me want to reach out to people who mean a lot to me...(but if I don't, I KNOW who you are!)

Worst Part of the Day-

I was rear-ended today.  Jeez.  Scarlet and I had just gone swimming for an hour (it was sooo much fun with her!) and we were just casually driving back and it happened at a stop sign.  It did not do any damage (maybe a scuff, literally).  When I got out and saw there was minimal damage I thought the other driver would appreciate my utter coolness by not caring about a scratch and just letting it go.  We did exchange info, but it seemed silly to make a police report with no damage to either car.  Before parting, my little last word self just HAD to ask the driver if he just didn't see me or the stop sign, or what.  He said "Well you started to go and then slammed on your breaks."  I said "Not exactly, I inched out and then stopped when I saw a car coming and whatever--you hit me from behind--you weren't watching me, I guess."  He went on saying I wasn't paying attention (what?) and went on to say he was a paramedic and so he knows I was at fault.  Hmph.  At this I said, "Well, let's just call the police then and make it official and let them decide."  To that he started to hem and haw and back track and we agreed to let it go.  Jeez, dude.  Know when you're getting off easy.  (I wish so badly that Will-O was with me in the car--cause I never really know what the best course of action in this type of situation...)

Saturday February 23, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - OHMY. The end of the day was filled with whining, purposeful messy eating, crying and the like. Both and Erik and I were wondering how much each boy would go for on ebay. Not to mention that SB threw a major fit when we left Gymboree - WOW. His tantrums are very short lived - but they are intense! As my friend Gwen likes to say "we're in the trenches!" And I still don't feel well. Alcohol will kill the germs, right?

Best Part of the Day - It was sunny today and you can HEAR the snow melting. LOVE it. I love sunshiny snow days. Also Erik continues on his super dad streak - very anticipatory toward the children (without asking me a million questions). Lovin' it.

Saturday February 23, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

We received a letter in the mail confirming that Scarlet did get accepted into the school we were soooo hoping she would!  I haven't been this thrilled since...well I honestly can't recall...I guess I thankfully don't have a ton of unknowns that are dependent on the decisions of others at this point...It is HIGHLY exciting.

Also it was sunny.  There is hope.

Worst Part of the Day-

Holy whining, Batman.  This time (how can you turn on me?) it was Little Liam who could not cease the whiny whinesville.  Nothing pleased him today.  He didn't seem like he was getting a cold or anything like that, just standard fussiness (from a typically non-fussy boy).  Good night, Sweet Prince.

Friday February 22, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - The weather!!!! OH MY. The snow and the snow and the snow. And the people driving too slow (sometimes I actually think this is worse than driving too fast - or at least just as bad!) And our driveway is getting covered again and our mail area and ..... UGH! Spring where are you??? Plow service where are you???

Best Part of the Day - A massage!!! Oh lovely, lovely massage. It was one hour of deep tissue work and she really worked out lots of kinks. I about cried when it was over. When I was checking out she looked at me with real sympathy and said "you know, you really needed that." Well yes, Pamela, I do believe I did.
- funny note - she guessed I was from Michigan from my accent! Cracked me up (she also is originally from Michigan). That's hiiiiilarious (I guess Michiganders hold their vowel sounds just a tich longer than the norm). She like a real life 'enry 'iggins - that one is.

Friday February 22, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

More eating and drinking...  Went to the Pettit Ice Center to watch a friend play in a league hockey game this evening. (Go winter time sports!) Cuz Sarah and I continued on to brave the frigid cold and went to Zaffiro's for unbeatable thin crust pizza, frosty cold High Lifes and chitty chat.  No shots and home by midnight.  Good clean Friday night fun.

Worst Part of the Day-

Will-O came home from an early morning ortho appointment with 2 plastic recorder instruments for Scarlet and Liam to play away and have fun making noise.  A well-intended and potentially educational gift.  Thank you, Will-O!  At first I, too, was interested and wanted to show Scarlet my grade school prowess of playing this (in 5th grade I was in a mildly revered recorder quintet, though I faked being able to read music the whole time...).  I tried to show Scarlet how to play my only remembered piece of "Hot Crossed Buns".  She was not into it and went on to say "I already know how to play.  Guess what song this is?"  Squeak, squeak, squeak, squeak, squeak--squeak, squeak, squeak.  It actually sounded familiar.  What is that?  "Who Let the Dogs Out!" she cried.  Oh no.  So today's soundtrack was largely squeaky sharp notes to that damn catchy (yet simultaneously annoying) rhythm:  squeak, squeak, squeak, squeak, squeak--squeak, squeak, squeak.

Thursday February 21, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Tonight was "Date Night" at Scarlet's preschool.  This means that we could drop off the kiddos and go out from the hours of 6-9pm.  The proceeds go toward classroom books, arts stuff, etc. It was pretty hilarious to see Liam (as the day care rookie) ogle and awe at all of the sights. Look--little tables, mini chairs, toys everywhere!  Zoinks.  He ran into a ball pit and said "baah" (his word for ball) over and over with sheer delight.  Heaven.  He new thing is to say "hi" to everyone and it is extra cute because it is real breathy and drawn out--"hhhhhh-eye".  Scarlet had a blast ruling her roost and introducing her buds to her little brother.  It was precious.  Neither one of them batted an eye lash at Will-O or me leaving.

Will-O and I went out for Mexican.  Fish tacos--good.  Margaritas--great.  Date Night--yeah!

Worst Part of the Day- 

I had an emotional moment at work.  A 14 year-old girl with whom I work is in desperate need of a foster home.  I have this completely impractical but nutty strong feeling of becoming a foster mom ASAP and taking in this girl.  "Treatment Foster Parenting" is where you take kids for a limited time (1 month or so) until a family member or a group home can be found.  It's just that this girl is very bright and sweet--she's a good kid and she has potential!!   She doesn't have a fighting chance to be ANYTHING if she doesn't get out of her world.   Immediately. Please don't misinterpret me for thinking my world is superior to her.  I know it is.  She comes from generations of moms who have babies at 16 years-old...no one has a clue in this family. For example, her mom (who is 6 years younger than me!) sat this girl and her 3 sisters and 1 brother (all ages 15-10) down one day and told them she had something important to say.  The mom then gave a speech and specific instructions on how to perform fellatio.  Holy cats!  Yeah, it's bad.  An that's just the tip of the spooky ice berg.  It is Pimps Up, Ho's Down times 10--everybody sleeping with everybody else in the home, blah, blah, yicky blah.  

I know I can give more to this girl and kids like her:  structure, stability, love and caring.   And vastly different speeches... 

I feel terrible that I can't do it today.  It is breaking my heart.  

Thursday February 21, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - The late afternoon just seemed to be a challenge (to put it lightly). The boyz new fave thing to do it tip things over. So annoying - and saying "no" is like talking to air. No one is listening. Absolutely no one. IMP has a bad, bad diaper rash from today - I had to change him quickly at the gym daycare and clearly did not do a very good job. So he is miserable. SB has decided to really fight dinner with complete screams and tears. Erik had a dinner meeting and I was so jealous of him walking out that door .... although I have to say that now that one is in bed and one is on his way ... I'm glad to not be at a boring ass dinner meeting. I want to watch Survivor, Lost and then go to bed (and not talk to anyone - I'm still not feeling very well.)

Best Part of the Day - IMP didn't cry ONCE at the gym daycare!! We've had a breakthrough (hopefully).

Wednesday February 20, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Erik threw a minor tantrum regarding uploading photos. It actually kind of amused me until it grew a tich too personal (why do you always change the settings, he asks? UM I didn't change any sort of settings - you and I have cameras from different manufacturers and therefore there will be different ways to upload the photos. Geez. So I say (after helping him find the photos) in a slightly raised voice "THIS is NOT MY fault." He is sweet as pie for the rest of the morning and calls just to "check in" (as he often does - but this time not to ask for a favor). He did a good recovery - but I know the test is still beating down on him.

Best Part of the Day - A two hour and fifteen minute marathon at Gymboree (it's like our own personal playdate on Wednesdays with the teacher and her two kiddos). I am still not feeling all that well, so I lounged on some large balls and watched the boyz run, jump and amuse themselves.

Wednesday February 20, 2008

Best Part of the Day-
Going to Cousin Kelly's for Thai food and some wine for din. (Just Scarlet and me as Liam goes to bed quite early and Will-O wanted to watch B-ball). The kids played crazily well together (and dance and sang--"break it down, now..." literally came out of K's 7 year-old's mouth in perfect time to Scarlet's beat box). The ladies talked and ate. Very enjoyable and home by 8:30pm.

Worst Part of the Day-
Kelly refused to keep the DQ ice cream cake that we brought over for dessert so in the car it went. As I drove home I thought I could just leave it in the backseat overnight as it is -4 degrees outside and then bring it to work tomorrow for the always hungry co-workers to gobble up (an effort to not tempt my newly vegan husband, too).
As were pulled into the driveway and started to collect our respective bags, my ever helpful child said "I'll get the cake, Mom" and started to try to lift the heavy treat. I went over to intervene with 2 bags on my arms and managed to pick up the flimsy plastic top only. Yikes. I could feel the cake falling and my instinct was to try to grab it and fold my body so it wouldn't fall to the ground. The end result was much creamy goodness smashed onto my coat, scarf, mittens and jeans. Scarlet laughed innocently and said "I thought that only happened on t.v. shows!" Me too.
Well at least no one is tempted by any dairy yumminess now.

Tuesday February 19, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - I'm not feeling well. I have a sore throat and a general feeling of sickness. I'm just hoping that the boyz already went through it and gave it to me. Blech.

Best Part of the Day - Ran errands and made it to my TNT class with one minute to spare (you can't be late - the ladies are vicious about weight benches, barbells and space!) I really didn't want to go as I'm not feeling all that well - but something is propeling me (my anal schedule? My tubby self? Nothing else "legal" to do from 4:45 to 5:45 without my children in tow? Hard sayin'. Probably all of the above.)

Tuesday February 19, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

1.  Finally found a reasonable deal and purchased flights for our fam to fly to Hilton Head in a couple of weeks.  No more looking online at a matrix of prices, dates and near by citites!   

2.  Voted in the WI state primaries.  What a good clean feeling to cast one's vote.  By the way, I loooove you, Obama!

Worst Part of the Day- 

I had a dental appointment this morning for a cleaning.  I was there a few minutes early which is atypical for me and I ignorantly thought this fact would magically speed things right up for me and my whole gol diggity darn day.  Well no.  I did a bunch of sitting around waiting, waiting, waiting.   Somehow a half an hour cleaning totaled 2+ hours.  (Guess I'm pleased I didn't bring the kids...I guess all are pleased by that move.) 

Monday February 18, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Watching Scarlet play (really play) with Liam.  She is a dear as she wants to tend to his needs and "babysit" him.  Mostly she is helpful and mostly he likes it.  (Sometimes she is too intense...like trying to force a diaper change when it's not needed... ).  Today she was playing peekaboo for lengthy period of time for such a game, but he was being killed by it the whole time.  He has quite a belly laugh and I don't think I've heard him laugh this hard before.  Scarlet was of course loving him loving her.  She said "Hey mom, I am really cracking Liam out!" You're cracking him up and out, darlin.

Worst Part of the Day-

Tuning in and sickly being into the new season of Pussycat Dolls on CW (When in god's name did that change from the WB?).  I am quite a bit against the name, cast and premise of the show, yet nothing could pull me away from this craziness for an hour tonight.

Monday February 18, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Again with the weather! Today it started to rain and got (relatively) warm. So the FOG! I mean really - FOG!?!?! Thick as pea soup, I tell ya. At least the ice is melting ....

Best Part of the Day - Okay - Erik is truly being SUPER DAD as of late. He is OUTRAGEOUSLY proactive (changing diapers, getting snacks, getting lunches, putting the boyz down for naps, dressing them ... all on his own.) It feels ... like a team effort here. And if feels like my workload has been cut in half. I am LOVING it. And I think he is too. A thing of beauty.

Sunday February 17, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Not having multiple babysitters to call upon. Man - it's hard when you get stuck!

Best Part of the Day - What's not to love about today? Slept in until 9 a.m. And then Uncle Joe came up for a visit. He tired out the kiddos (who lived for him - even Wes who hated him at first and then quickly warmed up) and gave us an excuse to order in lunch and dinner (couldn't go out as we had no babysitter - see above). Plus there were drinks, drinks and more drinks. It was a very fun, very relaxing and very hilarious time. He even stayed overnight - so we were up late boozing and mocking HGTV. Oh my. But so fun!!

Sunday February 17, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

A fairly easy and non-stress day with the kids.  (Sometimes Sundays can be a doozie).  No tremendous behavior issues.  Smooth sailing.  

Productive otherwise:  Went to the grocery store (I am a renowned terrible grocery shopper!), went to work for a bit, stopped in at the library and completed the taxes.

Worst Part of the Day-

Last night Will-O and I went out for din and then went to see a band (they were unexpectedly killer) while his mom hung here and our kids snoozed.  When I awoke today I didn't see my purse in its usual place--flung on the floor in the corner of our dining room.  I wasn't too worried straight away (as I only had three drinks over the course of the night--jeez...I had to have traveled home with it, right?)  I called my phone which I knew was in the purse, but didn't hear it anywhere. Hmph.  I still thought it had to be around here somewhere.  After not spotting it all morning, I had Will-O call his mom to see if it was in her car as we drove it last night due to snow bank reasons.  She said it wasn't in her car.  Ma lord.  The worry began to rise,  but I still had a saving option.  I called the bar and inquired about anyone finding my crappy denim satchel that no one would ever desire yet held the contents of my world.  No such item found.  Oh golly.  At this point the familiar "Great, I lost another______" set in.  How could I be so air headed?!* 

Just as I was about to come to grips with the doubly yucky truth of:  1).  my purse and all contents are gone and 2).  yes, I am an air head, I went to take out the garbage and saw the faded little purse hanging on a hook in our entryway.  (Where it really should be).  

You got me again, organic brain disease.   

Saturday February 16, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - We were supposed to go out to dinner with another couple (we were going to bring our kiddos along as it was going to be an early dinner and then they would go to a movie and we would head home. This was our "best effort" as we couldn't get a babysitter.) But then the other couple's kiddos didn't want to go to her mom's and so the woman half of the couple calls (Erik is at the gym) and says "why don't we just go to dinner and a movie?" And I say "okay". Well it turns out that she didn't discuss this with her husband - she just TOLD him that was going to go on. So their date night turns into - a girls night. Erik was really annoyed saying "that is BS that she did that to him." But I'm thinking "I didn't do anything wrong!" Ugh. It makes me feel bad - but I do so want to get out!

Best Part of the Day - So we are at the restaurant and we're waiting at the bar for our table. I order a beer (a Guinness - deeelish!) The bartender says "can I see your ID." "OH SURE," I say with a big smile. "No problem." She takes the ID from me, looks at the birthdate and (I swear) gasps loudly and puts her hand over her mouth. "Ohhhh," she stutters. "I NEVER would have guessed ... oh sorry! I had no idea." So she thought I was a twenty-something and is now astounded at how elderly I truly am? Hmmmm - I'll take it!

Saturday February 16, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Scarlet and I went to the Marquette women's b-ball game this afternoon with my mom and dad. I had not yet been to the Al McGuire Center--it was fantastic.  The players were great to watch and the facility was state of the art, as they say.  My dad is so humble--one would never know he was president of the M-Club (which encompasses student athletes and intramural stuff, I guess).  We had nice (free) lunch at a pre-game M-Club gathering.  The whole day was enjoyable and I felt bad that I had not once supported a women's game while I attended M.U. How markedly un-feminist I was by those actions!  

Scarlet had fun walking around and not watching the game, and eating and eating and eating. Cotton candy, popcorn, pink lemonade, and a hot pretzel was on her personal concession menu--after the appetizer (lunch) of sub sandwiches and chips.  (Well that is very much how I was/is).  It was breast cancer awareness day at this game so 100% of the audience was decked out in pink.  This is very much up Scarlet's alley.  When my mom asked her if she wanted to be a basketball player or a cheerleader, I silently chuckled because I knew what her answer would be.  Scarlet gleefully belted out, "Cheerleader!  'Cause they have pom pons and tattoos on their cheeks..."  No duh.

Worst Part of the Day-

This may sound bad.  

Scarlet was killing me the latter half of the day.  She was relentless in her "Mom. mom, mom..." She had to the be put on the "Thinking Step" for a spell once we got home from the game.  It was unreal.  Not much listening and a heck of a lot of whining was the theme of the late afternoon.  Oooooo.  It hurts.   

Friday February 15, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

I hung with Liam for my 8-ish hours (what a nugget of love!), popped into work AND went to work out.  Yes, this is what most Type A working moms do daily, but it is a first for me in a while (too many real tasks tend to overwhelm my delicate system).  Getting it done.  (AKA making up for yesterday's laze).

Worst Part of the Day-

Scarlet was relaying some solicited stories from preschool this week.  She started going into a mild diatribe about how Ms. Kate (her lead teacher) was explaining how to do some school/discipline things at home.  Her talk started getting serious and she said deadpan, "Ms. Kate said that all parents need to..." (What could it be, I wonder?  Be firm with a bedtime routine.  Check.  Be diligent with dental care?  Check.  Work on letters and reading?  Check.)  "...Um, Ms. Kate said that all parents need to get a plasma screen t.v. this week, that's what she said--for real.  So we need to get one."  Ex-squeeze me?  I may not fully know the difference between a plasma screen and a flat screen t.v. (there are differences, right?), but I know for certain that those precise words have never been uttered in this home.   Not only is my child telling tall tales at age 4, she is coveting thy neighbor's plasma goods.     

Friday February 15, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Just the cleaning and the cleaning and looking around and thinking "boy this house is messy." It's .... annoying.

Best Part of the Day - I'm very, very excited! My very good pal Stacia who I worked with in DC might have a freelance/part-time position leading to possible full time job with her new firm. And this firm is run by the woman who used to run the firm we both worked for. And she is AMAZING (I've been begging Stacia for work stories so I can be a part of it all). But it looks like there might be a need for me to do some maternity cover and take on some work and maybe (!) open up a satellite office??? That's way in the future - but so cool to think about. I've been smiling all day. Check out the website www.spitfirestrategies.com. AND Erik and I "ran errands" this afternoon (usually I am ANTI this as he is not fun to run errands with) - but this time it was really fun. Who knew he was such fun to grocery shop with? We ended up with Mahi that we seared and enjoyed with The King of Kong (highly recommend). Deeelightful!

Thursday February 14, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Today I helped Scarlet complete her Valentines for her preschool V-Day party.  For the most part I wrote names and she crossed them off our list and put on the finishing touches--i.e heart stickers and some glitz.  It was slow going at first, but nearing the end of our 35 cards we were cranking them out.  It was more fun than I would have thought.  This project conjured memories of grade school like-interests and the mid-grade excitement that Valentine's Day brought on--cheap flowers, bright red cupcakes, putting cards into each classmate's decorated shoe box (they still do that!)--something vibrant and sweet in the midst of the duldrums of winter.  After we finished Scarlet was beaming and said "Thanks for being the best Valentine helper ever, Mom!"  (She has no real frame of reference, but I'll take it).  

Thursdays are to be my free days.  Both kids go to their respective child care places and usually I will clean the house, organize, or go to a movie--usually I do things that are a drag to do with the kids.  Today I lounged.  Will-O gave me a massage in the afternoon and we snuggled and talked.  Very leisurely.  

We went to my mom and dad's for a fantastic home-cooked meal for dinner and then we exchanged Valentines.  Good day.

Cue the music:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uD7O6u8qdi0

Worst Part of the Day-

I am really sleepy.  Some people may say a more precise term is "hung over" (from late night gang activities), I prefer to stick with "sleepy".  

After 2 days of being vomit-free, Scarlet threw up once tonight.  After a full day consisting of 2 parties and heaps of playtime, she became pale during dinner and threw up.  She then continued playing.  What is up?  (I swear it is NOT Munchausen's By Proxy...)

Thursday February 14, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Well it most certainly has to be when I got stuck in the driveway. Oh wait, you might say. Didn't you JUST get stuck in the driveway? Oh, why yes I did. Let me tell you how it went down. Yesterday after Nordie plowed I looked the driveway and thought "well I'll have to really cut left when I drive out." After waking the baby from a nap (horrors!!) and bundling the two boyz up and I'm all ready to get to the gym (so motivated, am I! Must be the tight pants.) I get them in the car and head out the driveway thinking of a million things (probably congratulating myself on going to the gym) and CRUNCH! I back right into a mound of BLOCKS of icy snow. And vrrmmm vrmmmm vrmmmm - the car won't move. I sit astounded for a moment and then begin to weep. SB is laughing as if it's a play. IMP is looking at me with worry as the crying is usually his bag. I pull it together. I call for help. (Who knew I was such a damsel in distress? I promise you - that is NOT my bag.)

Best Part of the Day - I pull it together after my weep session. I change out the car seats into Erik's car (he's still out of town) and take the boyz to Gymboree for some MUCH NEEDED running around. They were so happy and I was so happy to chat with the other parents and let them romp. I felt good that I at least got them out of the house. And then the troops came over and (after 20 minutes of chiseling, shoveling and snowblowing), got my car unstuck. Whew. We also did go get Erik from the airport. He is depressed and so mad at himself regarding the test. But he did say "I won't take it out on you guys." Good enough! And it's nice to have him home.

Wednesday February 13, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

I completed Liam's 1 year-old birthday video.  (At last).  Yes, yes he is almost 14 months so I am clearly tardy...in defense of this perceived slackerness, I was awaiting a song to be emailed to me (strange that even though this one of Will-O's original songs I had to wait months to get my little paws on it)--to serve as soundtrack of course.  Once I received the song my beloved Mac done so darn good!  It is finished and soooo cute, if I dare say.  Ahhhh, the joys of completing a task.  And being pleased with the end product.  Satisfying.

To view a rough cut:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yPMcQmz4KOo

Worst Part of the Day-

Didn't make it for a workout today.  Not enough time in the day is my excuse.   Plus, I have to go meet my gang o' three out for drinks...(admittedly, slacker).

Wednesday February 13, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Well ... today I'll live vicariously through Erik. He took his Oral Boards today and feels like he totally messed it up. Erik is not a hysterical type (actually the opposite) and is not prone to exaggeration. So when he says to me "I just couldn't think. I knew the stuff but couldn't get it out." It gives me pause. Now I know that most people taking this test come out feeling this way - but the way he expressed himself? Uh oh (as SB has learned to say). Not to mention (she says selfishly) that a depressed husband is not so much a helper. And I am needing his help. Then, to add insult to injury, his flight got canceled (due to the eight inches of snow and then freezing rain) so he had to stay the night at Dulles. Won't be in until tomorrow night. Pobrecito!

Best Part of the Day - We were snowed in today (due to eight inches of snow and freezing rain). Sigh. Just when we had the driveway somewhat clear. But I get a call from Erik's co-worker's husband who had already called Nordie for me. Nordie gets here around 3 p.m. Erik's car (trouper!) pull right out of the driveway and I get it totally cleaned off (and the snow was HEAVY!!) And the driveway looks ... well it looks pretty good considering! Even got our mail delivered!! So nice to have people looking out for you.

Tuesday February 12, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - SB had a major meltdown at Gymboreeeeee today. It all started with a water bottle. See we have these Klean Kanteens (Sister Marie Jude always said that these types of misspellings - D0-Nuts, Klean - would lead to a dumber population of people. I might have to agree). Anyways, SB has his very own Klean Kanteen which I did not bring. So the Klean Kanteen in question is mine. Yes - MINE (I feel like my mom freaking out over her scissors. I have a vision of her clutching them to her chest saying "mine, mine, mine" with a flushed face and maniacal grimace. And really she's usually a calm person). The SB likes to chew and chew and chew the tops of his water cups. So I don't want mine all chewed up and anyhoo you can't have a water bottle in the play area anyways. He sees the water bottle and wants some. I refuse. The drama begins. Eventually, I give in and let him have a sip. And he wants to bring it into the play area and I explain to him that he can't (he is not understanding me until I physically block the way into the play area). He LOSES it. After five minutes of this (could be less - felt like longer), I get him into his socks and coat. Clearly we have to leave. Suddenly he gets engrossed in play and the tears dry up. NOW - what should I do? Do I haul him out of there to make a point? Will it register? Doesn't that make the morning soooo much longer for ME? Alas - I take off his coat and socks and all is well for the rest of the class. Sigh, sigh, sigh.

Best Part of the Day - My little TNT class was awesome. The babysitter (again) did great with the kiddos (bonus - the playroom was very neat and tidy when I came home). I did (again) leave explicit notes .... ask and ye shall receive. It's hard to me to really grasp this for some reason - but, hells bells, it works! Then I had the night all to myself! I watched some really old CSI's, drank red wine and ate pizza. Deeelightful.

Tuesday February 12, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

The good days keep comin'.

For my recent birthday Cousin Molly gave me a gift certificate for a 90 minute massage! Good golly Miss Molly.  Today was my day to receive the gloriousness.  The massage therapist was quite good.  I liked her stated policy of "I don't initiate conversation, I just massage".    Yes, yes.  I fell asleep during it and woke up drooling and the whole bit.   Divine.  

On the way home from the massage I swung by the DMV as it was on the way (and I am almost 2 months late to renew a driver's license--eek.)  As I pulled in to the parking lot I only saw 2 cars.  I wondered if they could be closed because it was snowing fairly hard and you know, these days they close all sorts of Wisconsin businesses and schools when it snows... Anyhoo, much to my delight it was open and completely dead.   The sign said "Number of minutes to wait--zero". The staff was jovial and I was out of there with my shiny (it really is) new (legit) license in under 5 minutes. Mama say wha?   Hip hip hooray for government offices with friendly staff and efficiency!   (And fearful Wisconsinites who don't venture out when it snows!)  And 90 minutes of "me" time!  The stars may be aligning.

Worst Part of the Day-

My little Scarlet is still illin.  She continues to be pale and sans appetite.  She was craving apple slices this morn and that seemed pretty benign, so I gave in.  Two minutes later she sprayed apple chunks all over the couch and her blankets.   If she were 17 years-old I would think she was pregnant (that sounds weird, sorry).  She has had such sporadic vomiting over the last 3 weeks:  puke one morning, then fine for days, then one incident at night, fine for a week, and now an issue two mornings in a row.  So strange, nothing consistent.  I have some Zofran in the fridge (which is magic prescription stuff for "intractable vomiting"--they give it out in ER's, etc.) and I may give her some if she is in jeopardy to missing her highly awaited preschool Valentine party on Thursday.

Monday February 11, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - THE COLD. MY GOD THE COLD. I mean, really, does it have to be so cold?

Best Part of the Day - Erik's partner's mother-in-law is one neat-o lady. She is 80-something and still kayaks, dances, hikes and parties with young and old alike. She was in remission from cancer, but it looks like it has come back (we found this out a week ago). At a party, she and I were discussing chocolates (surprise!) and she said that See's from San Fran is her favorite. I had ordered some for her when I heard that the cancer had returned and they arrived today. Sweets for a sweet. Now I love my G-Ma, but she is not my role model for getting old. This woman - she could be my role model. Vibrant, youthful and so fun and interesting to talk with. I hope to bring the chocolates to her tomorrow along with one of those "Quotable" cards "If you're going through hell ... keep on going." Yup. Keep on going.

Monday February 11, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Scarlet asked me if I could help her look up "pbskids.org" (she does watch a bit of a pbs daily). I was happy to show her a few things and thought she would last a few minutes trying to navigate the site before it was obviously geared toward 7 year-olds.  That mentally of mine is sooo 2004. Of course she knew what to do--she ended up being a total pro.  She used the keyboard mouse (they use a traditional mouse at preschool) and clicked away and played letter identification games and early reading games for no less than an hour.  (I know screen time is t.v. time to the medical community...)  She did well and really enjoyed it.  Liam napped, she increased her internet proficiency and I read.   When Will-O returns I will have Scarlet give him a "how to" tutorial.

Worst Part of the Day-

Scarlet awoke pale and not hungry.  I knew something was up as typically she has the appetite of a teenage boy and she always has the rosiest cheeks in the land.  She had been up less than an hour when she threw up.  She proceeded to spend her time lounging, sipping water and sporting pallor.  My sweet girl.   Please end the pain today!!

Sunday February 10, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Where oh where do I begin?  First off, I was the recipient of the You-Get-to-Sleep-In prize.   This is a new concept/practice to us where each parent gets to sleep in one assigned day of the weekend.  So yesterday Will-O slept in (and sleep in he did til about 12:30pm.  Ahem).  Don't worry, I am a fierce competitor.  Today I slept/lounged/read until noon.  Scarlet came in to my room 5 times in from 6am-noon, but it was still all good.   

Will-O then took the kids to his mom's where they planned on sledding.  Shall I say they were packed and set for sledding.  (It was crazy cold today--is it possible -40 with wind chill?!) Instead they ran around a different house and ate dinner over there.

Finally we rented the movie Blood Diamonds and ate like little pigs after the kids were snoozing away.  I always love a solid rental and this one was a goodie.  I used to have a thing for being staunchly opposed to Leonardo DiCaprio and his muscle-less body, but he has really stepped things up since The Beach.  He was totally believable in this and his Australian accent seemed dead on (to an American who knows little about accents--perhaps it was a New Zealand accent?--I don't think it was supposed to be Cockney or anything along the Oliver Twist line...unsure now, but it sounded cool).  Please note Blood Diamonds is horrifically and graphically violent!!  I would recommend it with that being said.  (Jennifer Connelly is wholly average, though.)

Sleeping, eating, lounging, movies.  Thank you.  

Good day.  Keep it comin.

Worst Part of the Day-

I had to pop in to work late this afternoon.  My job is  E-Z, but it was diffi-ceeel to get out o' the sweats and pretend to have practiced any hygiene today.  

Sunday February 10, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - The hours from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. which felt roughly five times as long. The boyz were whiney, clingy and generally unhappy. Man - we have to find something to do on Sundays!

Best Part of the Day - A surprise offer to baby-sit from one of Erik's co-workers. We never turn down these offers. Um - never, EVER. So we find ourselves at Pizzeria Uno (really this town is SEVERELY lacking in restaurant choices) eating salads (the both of us) and talking. I mean - really talking. About life insurance and trips we want to take and ski vacations and how amazing/annoying the boyz are and ... it felt like a date with a fiancé (OH I hate that word. Let's use betrothed.) Anyways, it was lovely. And Erik leaves tomorrow for the TEST. Hooray - the end is near!

Saturday February 9, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

I went out with my friend Lisa tonight.  We always have great conversation and somehow we feel we figure out the world's problems in our hours together.  Gol diggity, we are so clever!  We went to a Mexican place down the street and had stiff and salty margaritas and spicy ass food and yes, we saved the world.  Two of our fellow diners (o.k. they were sitting together)  told us on the way out that we were the "prettiest girls in the universe".     Yikes.

Worst Part of the Day-

Finding out a friend has been having an affair.  Oh my.  It really is kind of '80's and seems kind of gross.  Let me guess...you were lonely.  

Saturday February 9, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Something very sad happened today. While upstairs organizing my closet (okay - so I was laying down in my bed), I hear a door open and shut. Weird, I think. Both kiddos are napping. Erik is studying. Hmmmm. I rouse myself from underneath my pristine duvet (okay - it's a little smudgey. Needs a cover) and head downstairs. The dog is lying unconcerned on his dog bed (OKAY - so he's on the couch as usual. Quit yer badgering of my story). Huh, I think. I must have imagined it. I head back upstairs and dive into the bed hoping for a slight power nap. Two minutes later - a door opens and shuts. Then again - a door opens and shuts. Uh oh. I head to the SB's room and there he is opening and shutting his closet door. Oh sigh. Now this kid should have climbed out of his crib about a year ago - but he had some sort of mental mind trick regarding it. Not to mention that I have tried to discourage this very act. Well he's got it now. Oh sigh, sigh, sigh. Whatever will I do without the physical and mental barrier o' the crib? Dern it.

Best Part of the Day - Nordie finally came to plow and the driveway does not look perfect, but it is waaaaayyyy better. The icy "speed bump" is down to a mere curb. Also while booking flights to Jacksonville for a wedding in March, I felt that Erik and I were both very open to each others suggestions (he hates to commit to these things - weird, I know. So it often ends up in drama. But not this time. Loved it.)

Friday February 8, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

My friend Megan invited me to be a part of her book club (after I kinda invited myself).   Once it was set and agreed upon, my non-commital self started to wonder:  Do I really want to be the new kid in this already well established (8 years running) book club?  Should I just start my own darn club?  And then I thought other weird things:  What if I drink too much wine and talk too much?  What if I don't have any profound to say about the book?  Blah, blah.

Silly things aside, tonight was my first book club night.  The evening was very enjoyable!   The group was warm and welcoming (and liberal, which helps).   The conversation was natural and thought-provoking.  In addition to our book discussion, we chatted up politics, parenting, public schools, the health care system and homemade soup.  There were roughly 10 women ranging in age from early 30's to late 50's.  A mix of teachers, medical people, legal people; most married, the majority are moms.   This group did not guzzle as much wine as I would have liked, but there is real raucous potential.  Gimme a "W" for Women!!

Worst Part of the Day-

I had flashbacks of cramming for something or other in my college days...I read 180 pages of this crazy book in the last 24 hours.  Scarlet was trying to tell me something cool that happened to her at gymnastics and all I could think was, "Not now honey, I've got to read this damn book by six.   Shhhhh."

Friday February 8, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - The plow guy who was supposed to come today never showed up! So the car is in the garage, but I'm scared to move it. Husband o' mine called and talked me down (just don't pull it into the garage he calmly tells me. Oh yeah, why didn't I think of that?) Funny thang about the plow guy - I've been calling him 'Nordie' because Husband said that was his name. And I even said "what kind of name is 'Nordie?' And husband says "his name?" I find out (after calling him to find out why he didn't come and he just plum forgot) that his name is 'Mark' and 'Nordie' is just some sort of nickname? So here I am acting as if I'm his frat brother who has known him for ten years. Cracked me up. When I say to Husband - oh hell his name is Erik, I'm tried of calling him husband, stalk me if you wish. So when I say to Erik, "um his name is Mark." He says "huh. I've only ever known him as Nordie." Enlightening.

Best Part of the Day - Oh the babysitter! I left her specific written instructions and upon my arrival home (after a two hour cut and color complete with highlights, lowlights and whatever else will cover my grey), it seemed she had followed each and every one. Both boyz were happy, clean, dry and fed. Ahhhhhh. Also Erik arrived home in time to help me put the boyz in the bath and bed - felt like nothing to just do one child.

Thursday February 7, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

This family o' four went out to a Mexican restaurant for din.  The kids were fantastic and everyone ate heartily.  Both kids like fairly spicy food--mylanta.  I may have alarmed the waitress as I devoured the entirety of my fish taco entree and slammed a coffee in record time.   Yummy.  A positive dining experience for Team O.  Smooth sailing.  

Worst Part of the Day-

I still feel a bit under the weather.  Holy tiredness, Batman.  When getting dressed makes you feel winded that may be an issue.  And all I want to do eat, eat, eat--without ever feeling satiated.   What is up?!*

Thursday February 7, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - My class at the gym is at 9 a.m. It is a tich sleety out (but really very mild) and so I call the gym to ensure the class is taking place. "Oh yes," cries the chipper voice on the phone. So I pull it together - I get the boyz in shoes, coats, hats. I pack the bag. I put them in their carseats and head to the gym. I get the boyz into the daycare and head to my class - only two minutes late. Not bad. The instructor is not there. Three other women and I wait. And wait. And wait. Turns out that the classes had been cancelled last night ... but no one had told the front desk. Oh well - I do some other cardio. I can hear the IMP wailing a bit. But then I peek in and he is playing with his brother. So I pack the boyz up and head home. I pull into the driveway thinking about a shower and suddenly ... I'm stuck. No worries. I gun the engine. Stuck. I mean really, really stuck. There is a "speed bump" of about two and a half feet of ice at the bottom of our driveway and I am perfectly on top of it. Sigh, sigh, sigh. Later two men ring the doorbell and help me out but we still can't get the car up the driveway. Too icy. Sigh, sigh, sigh. Husband finally gets it in the garage at 8 at night after shoveling for 30 minutes.

Best Part of the Day - Maybe the shower? It had been awhile.

Wednesday February 6, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Even though this is winter in Wisconsin, (it will snow, for heaven's sake) today was declared a full-on Snow Day.  Schools were closed, grocery stores and even the malls!  At first my 80 year-old man persona came out and mumbled, "Come on, there's not even a lot of snow.  Wimps." As the day went on it got crazy.  Many feet of wet, heavy snow heaped upon us.  Scarlet and Will-O went for an hour long "adventure" in the afternoon and returned with laughs and high color in their cheeks.  In the end it was beautiful and kinda fun to be held hostage by the weatha.

Worst Part of the Day-

Due to everything in tarnation being closed today, Scarlet's preschool Family Night was cancelled.  Kind of a bummer 'cause she was looking forward to the whole thing and G-Pa T. was to be making an appearance.

Worst Best Part of the Day-

Snow Days are not the same when you have two little ones.  Perhaps it only truly rocks if you are a student or a teacher?  

Wednesday February 6, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Getting lost on the way back from a playdate because I used the GPS system. I've been to this house before and once I get on the highway I know my way home. However, the GPS was plugged in and I was talking to Sister Sarah and wasn't paying attention and next thing I know, I'm heading north when I should be heading south. I can't figure out if it skipped back to a previous address or if I set it wrong? Either way, it took about 20 extra minutes to get home. Sigh. I'm sure it was user error as usual.

Best Part of the Day - Had a most excellent playdate at my friend Gwen's house. Weirdly she is from my hometown but lives out here. She has two girls - one who will be 3 in March and one who is one day older than IMP. The three year old (Riley) was in a sass-o mood. This child is usually good as gold - but she was put in "time out" four times during two hours. Gwen is seeking an exorcism for her. It's good to see though - because really she is usually so perfect. And it was nice for us to get some "adult" time to comiserate about .... well, everything. I left feeling very relaxed. Too bad I then got lost (see above).

Mama Gaffe o' the Day - The phone rings and the voice asks for IMP's mom or dad. I figure this is the pediatrition calling to remind me of his one year appt. Nope - they are calling because we were a no show this morning. Hmmmm. I'm really, really losing it.

Tuesday February 5, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Will-O went to the symphony with his mom this evening.  Things are more balanced in the household in the last few days regardless, but it is extra calming for me to have a little time and space to myself in the evening.  I put the kids down, tidied up the place and started in on our taxes while half watching House on Fox.  Yes, I am lame.  It's the somewhat strange and simple things that please me--hmmmm, let's take a look at our past fiscal year and figure out a medical anomaly in the same hour.  (Plus, I'm alone.  Yippee!) 

Worst Part of the Day-

Can you say "unprecedented"?  Our Little Liam goes down for the night at 7pm at the latest. At around 6:45pm he gets soooo squwaky and actually says "nigh nigh" in an exasperated tone like he can take it no longer.  (It's quite melodramatic really--but he comes by that one honestly...)  So tonight of all nights, (my alone night!) he goes down at 6:45pm and then wakes at around 8:00pm.  At first he is just babbling contentedly.  I ignore.  Then I hear his little music box in the crib.  I pretend to ignore.  Finally he is full-on squwaking like it's a new day, time to get up.  Arrggghh.  What the?  How dare he interrupt my tax evasion.  I pray my ace-in-the-hole and his bedtime routine are not entering a new phase.  Mama don't play dat.

Tuesday February 5, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Changing diapers. And diapers and more diapers. And just when you think you are done ... more diapers. I'm tired of changing diapers. Could IMP have a milk allergy? He sure does sh$^ a lot.

Best Part of the Day - Ended up watching back to back Millionaire Matchmaker with my husband. The show is so terrible - it is exactly what is wrong with well .... EVERYTHING regarding realtionships. The jist is that these rich guys apply to this Millionaire Club to get set up. The "hot" ladies also apply. Then the rich men get to choose from the ladies and take one on a date. The matchmaker states that it is all about love. Really? Then why do the men have to be rich and the women hot? And I guess if they are willingly signing up for this sh&^, then I guess it's a-okay for me to mock it. It was fun to sit and watch a show with ole husband of me. OH and tomorrow begins one week countdown to the TEST.

Biggest Mama Gaffe o' the Day - Leaving Gymboree and chatting with Cousin Kristen. She says "oh do you need both hands?" "Oh no, " I reply. We get to the car and suddenly SB is wailing. I look down and he has just his socks on. I had thrown his shoes in my bag and walked him out in just socks. And it's raining and he's standing in a puddle. Don't call Child and Family Services, I'll try to not let it happen again.

Monday February 4, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

After much talk we booked a family vacation (just the 4 of us) for early March.  I'm excited to get away and have a little sun fun with everybody in only a few weeks.   They promise tennis courts, plenty of beach and a kiddie pool.  Alright. 

Worst Part of the Day-

I may be experiencing a low-grade anxiety about spending X amount of money for the four of us to hang out together in a different setting--eek.  (We are together quite a bit, you see.)  Will the condo provide a personal assistant, a cook, a manny?   Is this a good idea?  Will this be remotely relaxing?   I will not be such a wuss as to complain about a freaking vacation...or will I?  I will be fine once we get there.  Right?

Monday February 4, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Trying to figure out the babysitter situation. I'm not sure if I should give another chance with some major guidelines or just not have her anymore. Husband has some mild opinions, but mostly it's on me. I feel like this happens a lot - the decisions are left to me, but the shit will hit the fan if something goes wrong. I perfer consensus and then sharing the "blame" or "kudos", but that's not so much how it works. (But note - I also hate being told what to do - so perhaps I am part of the problemo.)

Best Part of the Day - Finished this book which made me mildly depressed but mildly hopeful. (And mildly impressed that I started and finished a book in the same amount of time as I would have prior to children.) The book did fall on some same old and kind of tired (to me) themes and writing techniques from time to time, but it also presented relationships in an absolutely true way (and that what was depressing and hopeful). And the plot was engrossing and very original. This didn't happen in the book, but don't you wish the 85 year old you could write a letter to the 35 year old you and say "suck it up. it's not so bad. life is pretty good" or "live it up. Life's short." At least I'd hope that's what I'd write. Megan - please read this so we can discuss "The Memory Keeper's Daughter by Kim Edwards.

Sunday February 3, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Joining the ladies for yummy brunch.  I am all about brunch--you dress up a little, you chat, you laugh, you eat!  All-you-can-eat is always up my alley, and this one is all-you-can-drink Champagne, too.  The restaurant is right on the lake and the food is delectable.  Coffee, eggs, seafood, fruit, blintzes, muffins, mashed potatoes--gluttonous fun.  Perfect company.  (And no dishes for me!!)

Worst Part of the Day-

Littlest Liam appears to be slightly under the weather.  He is not a complainer by nature and today he was whiney whinesville and quite clingy.  No fever and nothing overt, but when I gave him a bath I noticed a pink bumpy viral-type rash on his trunk.  Also he has a big bad back tooth coming on in.  Poor Littlest Li.  Motrin for you as a nightcap, my sweet.

Sunday February 3, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Trying to prepare for hosting a Super Bowl party with two little ones in tow. Picture this - you wipe down a window, little hands touch the window. You vaccum the floor, little ones follow dropping paper and crumbs. You are making chicken chili and you burn the f&$cking chicken and it is mostly inedible. Okay - the last one was clearly just my error, but by the time our guests arrived I was exhausted.

Best Part of the Day - (Meanly) it was the Pats losing the Super Bowl. The coverage has been soooo "how much will we win by?" and "Brady is so great" and "Boston is the ULTIMATE sports town." And what a game - even I was all into it. Oooooh how the mighty have fallen. Someone at the end of the party said "oh it just seems like those New York fans are so obnoxious." Cracked me up - don't we always think the other teams fans are obnoxious? Also SB stayed up until 9:30 p.m. scooting around on his little scooter thang, stealing fritos off the table (good choice) and generally loving the crazy energy of the tv room. At one point he fell on accident and the crowd all focused in on him .... so then (seriously) he "fell" about 25 more times. Hmmmm - a little bit of "LOOK AT ME" - but it made me laugh to see him so interested in other people's reaction (he often just ignores people).

Saturday February 2, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

The kids are cracking me up.  While I was online looking for plane tickets (one way to Bolivia, please) Scarlet says "Mom, you can stop doing your blog now--it'll be there when I'm done with my show".  She proceeds to perform a fabulous one woman show.  It was an entertaining combo of flow-etry, musical theater, dance, magic and comedy.  Bravo!  (By the way, I didn't 100% know what a blog was when I was 34 years-old, yet she seems to know at 4.  These darn kids...)

Worst Part of the Day-

Not feeling physically well today.  Kinda achy and really sleepy.  I feel hung over yet my Friday night didn't involve any substances...lousy.

Saturday February 2, 2008

Best Part of the Day - The babysitter (the one who's car was being registered at her scheduled time yesterday?) called to say she could babysit today. So I happily run off for a manicure/predicure complete with trashy magazines I refuse to buy (but always glance at in check out aisles). Then Erik and I met for an early dinner at this little sandwhich place we happen upon (usually we don't happen upon much of anything and go to the same old/same old). But this time we strike gold! Delish and eco-friendly and independently owned (I think).

Worst Part of the Day - Arrive home to hear that IMP has been unhappy the entire time. Oh - more of the same, I think. Then I am checking his diaper when I smell something familiar (no not baby poop - something else). Kind of sweet ... then I see the Vick's Baby Rub on the floor and ask the babysitter "did you use this on IMP's bottom?" She says "yes" and I say "um - this is not diaper cream, it is a rub for backs and chests for colds. It's probably really stinging him." So I get him all changed and get ready to put him in a bath. Then I find IMP's softie (his cuddle, lovey, whatever you call it in your house) in the sink. "Oh" says the babysitter. "He threw it in the toilet, so I put it in the sink." I say "well that's probably another reason why he's crying." It is his COMFORT object after all. I throw it in the washing machine. Then I escort the babysitter out the door and try to call Cousin Kristen - no dice. Call Cousin Megan - no dice. Page cousin Kristen. Pace. For some reason, I don't want to call my mom or husband ... both of whom would be able to help. I then call Poison Control - they tell me that I did just what they would have advised and to not worry about it. While telling the story to Sister Sarah, Cousin Kristen calls back off the page (thinks I'm a patient) and just kind of laughs. NO biggie, in RN World I guess. So we have a nice chat. But now what do I do about this babysitter???? In her defense, the label does say "baby ointment". NOT in her defense, the label does say Vick's Baby Rub. Sigh.

Friday February 1, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Will-O takes Scarlet out for the afternoon.  They go to an open gym for kids' gymnastics.  This equals 2-ish hours of tumbling fun for her and therefore many minutes of calm for me!  I hear she is quite capable on the balance beam (I always sucked at beam...) and of course all kids love to jump and "do flips" (aka somersalts).  Afterwards they went out to lunch and she was perfectly mannered.   A "dad and daughter date" as she says.  This allows me to hang with my little Li(am).  Friday is the only day that I stay home fully and it is joyous to simply tend to this easiest child on the planet (he may turn on me soon...)  He plays, I play.   He naps, I nap.  How glorious.  

Worst Part of the Day-

Will-O and I are not seeing eye to eye.  (yeah, I know--again.)  I feel like he was having some sort of emotional breakdown (i.e. audible sobbing in mid-day two days in a row; Scarlet asking plainly "what's wrong with dad?")  He states I am "uncomfortable with human emotion" and "sometimes things need to be expressed".   Surely.  (I work with kids with psychological issues, people.)  I feel I am comfortable with a wide range of emotions--just not when he needs to be watching the kids so I can prepare him a vegan meal from scratch.  

Bitter, you ask?  Yes.  End of my rope?  Quite possibly.

Friday February 1, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - My day of limited kid-ness does not come to pass. The babysitter cancels her morning hours as her "car is getting registered." Come again? Okay the manicure will have to be cancelled and I'll have to take the boyz to the grocery store (which I am VERY anti). But then a Sleet storm hits just as we are to be leaving for Boston without kiddos for an overnight trip. Trip is cancelled. Sigh, sigh, sigh.

Best Part of the Day - We retain our overnight sitter and go for an early movie (4:30 p.m showing of Untraceable. We had the theater to ourselves natch). Then go out to eat. Come home and watch Lost. Fun, fun for the two of us. And didn't have to put the boyz to bed or feed them dinner, so that is going to have to be enough of a break for now.