Saturday May 31, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Taking my two boyz to the post office was the WORST. IMP didn't want to be held, SB wanted to play with the doors, the line was loooonggg. But I had to get this board score submission resubmitted via overnight mail, so there I was .... in HELL. At the end I was carrying the two boyz to the car with SB in tears. Then I'm putting them in the car and this punk says something to SB. And I say "Oh did you say something?" And he mutters "I was just f&*cking talking to your kid. It's no big f#$cking deal." Well - I'm in NO mood for this punk. So I circle back around my car, smile at his girlfriend (sister) who smiles back and say right to his face "What did you say?" The girlfriend (sister?) breaks in "oh he was just saying 'hi' to your son." And I say (to him) "WELL I couldn't hear you over the crying. I CERTAINLY don't care if you say 'hi' to him." And he just sneers and looks down. No messin' the the mama today.

Best Part of the Day - Had friends over for a bbq and it was lovely! Relaxing and delicious. And their kids thoroughly entertained ours. Nice n' easy. That's my style.

Friday May 30, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - As SB, IMP and I walk into The Children's Place to do our volunteer shift I sense something in the air .... ah yes, it's the smell of toddler boy testosterone. There was yelling, clanging, pushing, scratching, tattling .... one toddler girl just sat with her hands over her ears. So we got those boyz outside as quickly as possible and let them run ... but not before one scratched my little IMP on the side of the face! Ugh.
Also one item necessary for Erik's NC licensing came back today as they had raised the fee. We have to resubmit. Here's a thought - just send out the freakin' board scores and bill us the extra $10. I promise to pay it. I freakin' hate the ADA now.

Best Part of the Day - I made healthy enchiladas and we watched Lost. And it was good eats and a relaxing time. Can't ask for much more than that.

Thursday May 29, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - We had a Broker Open House today (where all the brokers from the other real estate companies in town come on over). So I am beside myself trying to get the house clean all last night and this morning. IMP the Destructor was in full effect. And I was dizzying cleaning tyrant. And Erik is watching this from his perch in the living room. We get home from the gym and then the playground, I feed the kiddos and as the Realtor comes over I realize that the open house lasts TWO HOURS. So I'm stuck in my gym clothes just wandering around my own house feeling stupid. The clincher was when Erik came home, sat down and said "We are just NOT ready for showings" as he points to a folded kitchen towel on top of the refrigerator. I (as any rational person in my situation would do) GO OFF on him. And he (as any rational person in HIS situation would do) apologizes profusely and is sweet as pie for the rest of the night. Hmmmph.

Best Part of the Day - Probably going to bed.

Thursday May 29, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

I did about 10 miles on the bike this morn.  Wow.  The baboon heart was a pumpin.   The burning of thy lungs felt good.

Worst Part of the Day-

Hello, I despise cars.  Car is in the shop again.  This time I am not smitten with the fact that the car shop is down the street.  It bugs.  

Wednesday May 28, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Note to self - do not get the grass fertilized and the carpets done on the SAME FREAKIN' DAY!! In fact, only get the carpets done if you have no children and no dog. What is the point? Or maybe if you can ship said children and dog somewheres - OH it was a frustrating day. And a LOT of television which made me feel VERY guilty. It's just that when IMP woke up from his nap, SB slept for another hour plus and WE WERE STUCK IN TWO ROOMS IN THE HOUSE. And it was tough keeping him out of his play room. Blech. And the poor dog was soooo confused - "why can't I lay where I lay every day?" Well because I just paid some ca$h to get the stains out of where you lay every day friend.

Best Part of the Day - I'd have to say the grilled chicken salads I made for dinner. I said "these are as good as the 9's" (a local yokel chain in NE) and Erik declared "these are BETTER!" And he is not an effusive young man.

Wednesday May 28, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Running in the beautiful spring air--ahhhh.  I did a whole 3 miles without wanting to puke. Hurrah!

Worst Part of the Day-

The whining.  Ohhhhhhhhhhhhh.   Sigh.  Scarlet woke up happy and cheerful as she tends to.  Then she started whining about how she wanted her socks.  Then her shoes.  Didn't want to brush her hair--tooooo snarrrrrleeee.  I wanted princess toothpaste, not robot toothpaste!  On and on.  I try to follow all of the rules:  Don't give any attention to the whining-check.  Give attention to positive behaviors-check.  Flat out ignore the whining-check.   Remove privileges-check.  Resort to Thinking Step for continued whining-check.  Finally I snapped.  Through clenched teeth I instructed there would be no more whining.  I sternly informed her that in the book I am currently reading (What is the What?  It is excellent, by the way) there are these kids (Sudanese refugees) who have to walk every day and every night with hardly any food, little water, no shoes and barely any clothes.  They sleep on the ground with no blankets.  They see wild animals eat their friends.  Do these kids whine?  No.  Never.  

I think I have my whiney child with this story.  She is quiet for a few minutes.  

She then asks, "Are the kids naked?"  "Some of them are", I say and I explain their situation a bit and what it means to be a refugee, war, etc.  I really feel like she is grasping the gravity of some of it.  Perhaps it will finally sink in to her that she has nothing to whine about!!!  Then she responds, "Ya know, you're not supposed to walk around naked." 

Ho hum.

Tuesday May 27, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - I had a dude come over to get an estimate on moving (I'm trying to just knock out whatever I can prior to ... well prior to whatever. Hell - we could be sitting on this house for a loooonnngg time.) He was very nice - but a little slick. Stating "oh you'll want us to take apart this desk." OR "you'll want the full insurance coverage." Um - I don't think so. None of our crap is worth all that much, friend. So when the quote comes back I'm sure I'll be telling him to take a bunch of stuff off to which he will probably raise his eyebrows and say "okay - if that's REALLY what you want." I HATE MOVING COMPANIES. I'm soooo glad to be paying someone to move this crappy furniture. But I do love that I don't care what gets spilled on it.

Also during my TNT class - it was about 85 degrees outside and at least that hot inside the gym. I was DYING and felt "fuzzy" during this workout. What Gold's Gym - no A/C allowed????

And a trip to the grocery store with the two kiddos? Both perfect the entire time. Then when it was time to leave, I could not get SB away from the ultra cool automatic doors. Finally had to pick him up as he SCREAMED. Oh my. Let's start the countdown to June 10 when we head to Michigan.

Best Part of the Day - Erik slept upstairs for the first time in over two weeks last night so this morning the house was already baby proofed when I walked down the stairs. No hide-a-bed to put away (with two kids jumping all over it), no remote, glass, crutches, cell phone to put up. Bliss. IMP did look in the room and say "Da Da???" Huh he must have thought, where did that gimp, er guy, go?

Tuesday May 27, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

When it's p.j. time here, it is imperative to Scarlet that she and I match our nighttime wear.  She will ask "What are you gonna wear, Mom--nightie or top and bottoms?"  She will then dress according to my answer.  (She has no idea how fun 7th grade will be with the phone calls to give a heads-up matching outfits for the next day).   Tonight during p.j. time, Liam grabbed a Pepto Bismol pink Dora nightgown out of Scarlet's drawer and handed it to me.  He started to say "jammie" in his baby talk and he kept hanging on to it.  All of a sudden I thought, "Do you want to wear this, Buddy?"  I put the gown on him and he knew this was crazy.  He laughed and squealed and then went to the mirror to laugh some more.  I yelled down to S. and Will-O to come up and see something funny.  They were chuckling right away when they saw him--a vision in Pepto pink.  Scarlet ran straight to him and picked him up saying "My long lost baby sister!"  It was priceless.  And he really is a cute girl.  Even with his baby uni-brow.

Worst Part of the Day-

I was a bit sleepy all day.  The coffee never really kicked in.  (I don't recall feeling tired during the day since being a 20-something knucklehead--when it never occurred to me to NOT go out 7 days a week until bar time).

Monday May 26, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Again (as mostly usual) from 5:15 to 6:00 p.m. is the WORST for the baby IMP. He is just soooo hungry and getting sooooo tired. Whew. Crab-0.

Best Part of the Day - So I've been talking to my cleaning lady about the good smelling, hard working, environmentally friendly Mrs. Meyers cleaning products. And she (SO COOL) took it upon herself to go buy some of these and use them in my home today. She used the Geranium scented cleaners (which I had never tried - I am particular to the Lavender myself) and the entire house smells like ... well like a garden. It is the most delicious smell. She then told me that the cleaning company she works with is now buying all Mrs. Meyers products. I LOVE it. And she left me a Geranium scented dish soap to boot. What a treat! And it did make me happy to have her using the products for her own health! Happiness all the way around.

Also the IMP let me get through a workout at the gym (hooray!). I let him bring his froggie softie (usually I tell the boyz that their softies are agoraphobic) and bribed him with yogurt covered raisins. Then the boyz and I went to the playground and home for lunch. Then both punched out two plus hour naps. Lovin' it!

Monday May 26, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Things are happy again with Will-O.  We took the kids to a nature preserve this afternoon that also had a super cool playground set up for toddlers and big kids.  It has an expansive area so the kids could just run free.  We all had a solid time laughing and running and playing.  Man, those kids love to run.  

Worst Part of the Day-

I went to go for a run this evening and though it was glorious outside and I enjoyed that immensely, I am semi-concerned about this upcoming triathlon.  I guess I have to come to terms with the fact that I am no longer a naturally physically fit teenager who does not need to train for these things (that is precisely how I completed the last 2 of these...)  This is gonna take some work.  Truth be told, I was winded after a mile.  

Sunday Mary 25, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Sheesh--the whole dang day:  I slept until I naturally arose, went to work out, read a book until I needed a snack, more lounging....ahhh.  I was wonderful to be reunited with the kids after our 27 hour separation.  It is also so fantastic that they have such a blast with my parents.  Good any way you slice that one!

Worst Part of the Day-

I picked Will-O up from the airport and we had a miscommunication almost immediately.  It was a bummer, 'cause I was excited to see him and refreshed and rejuvenated...lame diddy lame lame.

Saturday May 24, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

My mom and dad have the kids overnight so I could do a bit of work, but mainly so I could attend a gathering in Chicago today.  Sooooo fun to the Chicago peeps!!!  Soooo fantastic to be solo as I did not have to adhere to any schedule--ahh to fly by the seat of one's pants--quite refreshing. 

Worst Part of the Day-

Can we all agree that Chicago traffic is a bit much.  Why does it take 1 hour to travel 12 miles, why?  (At least the traffic solidifies my decision to no longer live there...it would be awful to visit and leave with the pangs of missing and wanting to be a part of it.   It is settled--I am done with it--in a good way.)

Friday May 23, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Ya know darn well how much fun it is to be alone....oh to bask in the anitsocial-ness of it all...

Will-O is of course out o' town and kidz atypically went to the sitter today.  Yes, I worked, worked out, cleaned the home and did yard work, but it was all done as I pleased:  lusciously solo. 

Worst Part of the Day-

After the kidlets went down this evening, I cracked open a bottle of the somehow pleasing 2 buck Chuck merlot that has been sitting in the wine rack for months.  Holy cats was it yummy.  After 2 glasses (honestly not the whole bottle), I was tip-seeeeee.  I may have stumbled cross-eyed to my room.  If I wasn't alone, I would've accused someone of slipping in a roofie.  Just a severe lightweight, my friends...or perhaps dehydrated???  Odd.

Sunday May 24, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - This actually was kind of funny, but I did feel bad for SB. IMP is snoozing and I'm on the computer and suddenly I hear Erik yell "OH SB NO NO NO NO!" I'm thinking the kiddo is about to pull the TV on himself or has his hand around a knife. SB starts WAILING (the tempo of which makes my skin crawl - that WAIL that says something is REALLY wrong.) I run out in a panic to find SB has drawn a nice, wavy green line on the bright yellow walls of the dining room. Erik is about beside himself, sitting helplessly on the couch with braced leg propped up. Of course Mama knows (as any parent dealing daily with toddlers knows) that the marker is water based and very washable. So I comfort SB who clearly is either a. not used to being yelled at in that way OR
b. suspected he had actually done something wrong.

Then I take out a wet paper towel and WA LA the marker disappears. Erik was impressed but then says in an out loud voice that maybe all the walls need to be wiped down (a fair amount of dirt came up with green marker). "Huh - who is going to be wiping down the walls," I think.

Best Part of the Day - Okay so both of Erik's online tests for the NC license are now passed. That is a relief (and yes, I was a large part of the preparation for this - not just an innocent bystander). Also, during nap time I ran some fun errands and got lunch for Erik and I. It was kind of like the lazy, heady Sundays of yore when we would just decide at the last minute to go out to lunch. Kind of, but not quite. Still, it was lovely and lazy in it's own way.

Saturday May 24, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - The three day weekend seems endless (not in a good way) on this Saturday. The boyz and I departed the abode for the gym. IMP WAILED and no workout was achieved (I compare this to Saturday workouts PACL (pre-ACL) when I would go alone, work out for one hour and 45 minutes, run an errand and return home). Sigh. Sigh.

Best Part of the Day - For you carnivores - turkey brats rock! We all ate them nice n' grilled this evening and they taste just about as good as the originals (with about 75% less fat). Good stuff.

Friday May 23, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Trying to coordinate feeding the boyz lunch with getting Erik out the door to his PT appointment. It stressed me out. We also don't have the gate at the bottom of the stairs totally secure as we just got the hole it made in the wall fixed. UGH!

Best Part of the Day - Had two hours to myself when the babysitter arrived to run some errands and it was SO NICE. Also booked myself and the boyz into Michigan (Erik and I agreed that they need to get outta here so we can try to make the place look good for showings. Then he will stop by Michigan for some days to see them before he drives down to NC.) So it feels good to have a plan in place!

Thursday May 22, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Another house right around the corner from us just went on the market. It looks nice (from the online photos) and it priced less than ours (however, ours is a little bigger with one more bedroom). Still, it gives me a not so good feeling about what is going to go down with this house ....
Also only made it 45 minutes in my morning exercise class. IMP has decided to wail when he realized I am gone. Sigh, sigh, sigh.

Best Part of the Day - Erik went to work this afternoon - hooray for him! I think it really tired him out, but it was nice to have 25 minutes of alone time (boyz were still napping). It was bliss and just what I needed to recharge.

Thursday May 22, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

We dropped Will-O off at the airport for his guys' weekend/days o' recording music in Phoenix. The kids and I had a blast running and playing in the back yard.  It was full of hugs and kisses and "you're the best mom, ever!" declarations.  Seriously it is fun to be able to just play--it is all about perspective.

Worst Part of the Day-

Amidst all of my playing I did promptly blow off my plan for a daily workout...see I am bad at this.  It's only Day 3--triathlon is approaching...

Non-cutest part of the Day-

Scarlet and I were looking in the mirror and analyzing our faces.  We went through each part and how much we resembled one another:  forehead-yes, eyes-no "mine are blue!", nose-yes, mouth-no (her lips are far superior), teeth-"Yes", she says, "ours are both yellow."  What the?

Wednesday May 21, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - A whinefest by IMP was interrupted by heading outside to the fenced in back yard. But then the blissful frolicking outside was interrupted by rain. Boooooo. Had to go inside and tears started up again ... sigh can't wait for the witching and bitching hours to be over.

Best Part of the Day - SB had his year speech evaluation and it was so cool to see how far he has come! I was really impressed. (I recall tearing up after they gave me the results of the first one. And I still have to say that I don't buy ALL of what they are selling - but I do believe that the speech therapy has made a difference. It's just the OT stuff I have some issues with ...._)And this little one is now in his own "language explosion" learning two to three words a day. However, before you get all impressed - these words often don't sound as they should. But we can work on pronunciation at a later date - now it's just cool to HEAR him express himself and label objects.
ALSO - Erik drove himself today and left the house for 45 by himself. Whoo Hoo! (I am very unsympathetic, no?)

Wednesday May 21, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Will-O is in Chicago recording today (take 2).  I had a scrumptious day pretending my only role in this life was homemaker--I tidied to music, made a meal from scratch (seriously it has been months since I last cooked), took the kids to the park and had Cuz Kelly and her son over for dinner/playtime.  It was novel to have a laid back schedule--oh yes, and that yummy goodness called wine always helps.

Worst Part of the Day-

Scarlet was not having her best hostess day.  Though I did debrief her prior to our guests' arrival and she was thrilled with the idea, once they arrived she was atypically sulky/sassy and even reported being "jealous" of Liam getting all that gol darn toddler attention.  (Hey, it's hard to compete with an ever smiley boy who lives to run into peoples' arms...)

Cutest Part of the Day-

Scarlet was looking at our wedding photos this morning.  She asked if she were born yet at the time of the wedding/photos.  I asked her just what kind of woman did she think I was???  Just kidding.

I gave her my standard reply to questions about her whereabouts prior to her birth, "Not yet, you were just a star in the sky."  To this she smiled and said "I remember being in that star...it was more like an electric ball--I would eat berries all day in there...it was fun."  

Tuesday May 20, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - I have not had one "sit down and chill" time for more than five minutes for over a week now. IT IS DRIVING ME INSANE. I usually have one hour each day that is just for me. Now that hour is POOF - gone. Trying to clean up the house (and I mean clean it out - all toys into the office) for the Realtor to take photos while trying to get out of the house while cleaning up fresh defecation off the carpet from the little one .... UGH. Then I come back from the two hour birthday party (which ironically was the most relaxing part of my day) and head right to the grocery store while the kiddos nap. Then I work on Erik's NC paperwork in the afternoon and evening (after putting kiddos to bath and bed by myself). And IMP keeps crying out in the middle of the night - waking me up. It's a toxic mix and it's gonna blow!

Best Part of the Day - Ruby's second birthday party was LOVELY (I guess if you had asked her two months ago "how old are you?" She would have answered "Twenty two months." Precocious!) It was outside with tons of kid friendly activities. Not one kid whined or cried the entire time. It was chill and perfect and the boys LOVED it. Also SB will now come running after me when it's time to go. Hope this stage lasts for a long while.

- Also I'm obsessed with my new phone - it has a syncing calendar option that I am using all the time. I LOVE IT.

Tuesday May 20, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Will-O and I have officially registered for a triathlon (a mini, mind you) this July.  It's good to have a date to shoot for (I am not the best trainer unless I have a date) --something on the books. Exciting.  I am looking forward to the whole process--and doing it TOGETHER.

Worst Part of the Day-

My mom has had another friend succumb to cancer.  The funeral was today.  It is awful to think of...there seems to be many women from our home town who are at one point vibrant pictures of health--never smokers, seldom drinkers, routine exercisers, consumers of fresh/organic foods, etc.  It seems these women feel strong and positive when they are initially diagnosed with cancer.  Then less than 2 years later, the cancer wins.  

It seems to me there is something pervasive and toxic in our environment...why are the healthiest people getting cancer?  Why are there Cancer Treatment Centers all over the place? What is going on?  It is disheartening.

Monday May 19, 2008

Best Part of the Day-
Things are lightening up on the homefront. We are simply adpoting the "let's just pretend everything is fine" school of thought. Sometimes more discourse doesn't get you anywhere. Let's just kiss and make up. Why are we fighting anyways??? I think this is how people stay married for 90 years.

Worst Part of the Day-
The crappy part about having these darn hair highlights is that you have to keep on top of the whole situation. My problem is by the time I am calling to make an appointment for a touch-up 11 days from now, I really need it done TODAY. This may be a painful 11 days for all.

Monday May 19, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Having to work around Erik's doctor appointment. It was at a TERRIBLE time for the kiddos ... but I did enjoy watching them take the staples out of his leg. Kind of cool. Also he won't be walking without crutches for three weeks (!). This means that I will continue to function as the GO TO person of the household. As in I am now serving three boyz instead of just two. Oh sigh. Maybe I should tear my ACL.

Best Part of the Day - Met with the Realtor and the house should be on the market .... today! Now I have to get 'er really ready for the showings. That makes me tired just THINKING about it- must go to bed now.
Also did watch Juno - and I thought it was very good! So often when you see these hyped up movies, they disappoint. But both Erik and I really liked it a lot.

Sunday May 18, 2008

Best Part of the Day - We got our little original sinner baptized today. You might say to me "well isn't he a tich old for that?" And I might say back to you "That's not very Christian to judge me like that." We finally found a priest who was more interested in the actual sacrament than all the RULES around the sacrament. It was refreshing. We had Erik's sister as the godmother and brother Joe as the godfather. We had a party afterwards with some peeps and some apps and some cake. So God Bless Wes (and God Bless cookie cake!)

Worst Part of the Day - SOOOO exhausted at the end of the day. I was dying. And my single motherhood wears on .... my little patient is still on the couch. Doctor's appointment tomorrow so we'll see how it goes.

Sunday May 18, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Holy cats are things spic and span around here.  What I thought would take a week got done today.  I was on a rampage.  Each room is spotless (yes, I know it will be a pit again tomorrow). We even rearranged the furniture in our bedroom--always fun to rearrange, I say.  The kids got a kick out of seeing the new set-up and jumping on the bed in it's new space.   Yippeee.  The same bed in a new place!!  Yeah!

Worst Part of the Day-

Tensions continue to mount between Will-O and I.  It is odd.  It is annoying.  If I were an onlooker, I would suggest the 2 of us take a vacation to rekindle.  Or even just one evening of relaxed downtime.  Or possibly one conversation in this calendar year that is not interrupted. Somehow we need to get back to a place where we can laugh--not so much gol diggity stress.  

Cutest Part of the Day-

Before bed Scarlet was telling me how much she loves me.  (Our standard).  She said, "You know, Mom, I even love you more than I love school."   Ho!

Saturday May 17, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

A fantastically talented fashion designer friend of mine had the opening of her new shop/space tonight.  It was a sassy affair complete with open bar, scrumptious apps, and of course a fashion show.  Very, very fun.   A place to see and be seen.

Worst Part of the Day-

I have no idea why tensions are high in the home.  Will-O and I were both snippy with each other despite my elation of not having to go to the hospital.  Whatevs.

Friday May 16, 2008

Worst Part of the Day-

I just realized this really cool infant bike seat is gonna be a beee-yatch to put on my bike.   Doh.

Best Part of the Day-

Woo-hoo.  My final day of my nurse contract was today.  Holy schnickies.--it feels good to have seen this dang thang to completion--on many levels.  I did what I said I would do (accountability). I did what I had to do (responsibility).  I met some cool people and had a bit of fun (stroke o' luck).  I proved that I can still handle the ER madness (self-esteem).  Will-O did an exceptional job of handling all household slack n' kid stuff (necessary support).  Realizing the kids were NOT phased one iota by me being gone tons (being able to relinquish control...that is a big one).  

Saturday May 17, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Did not get my usual marathon workout this morn as Erik is still out of commission and that little IMP just won't give up his morning nap!!! Sigh, sigh. Also still on the cleaning kick as Erik's sister gets in at noon.

Best Part of the Day - Erik's sister arrived!!! It was sooo fun to get to hang out with her without her kids (not that they aren't so great - but it's just nice to get her alone.) Erik, Jenn and I had so much fun chit chatting and playing with the kiddos and just hanging out. She is a very cool person and very fun to be around.

Friday May 16, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Erik's sister comes in tomorrow and I am a FREAK about trying to prep for visitors! So there I am on hands and knees cleaning the kitchen floor only to watch the dog track muddy pawprints two minutes later (Erik had to laugh from the couch as it was too funny.) And there I am trying to clean off the counters and there are little hands to smudge it all up. Boo Hiss.

Best Part of the Day - I got a pedicure today and it was sooooooo nice. I just vegged out and had a luxurious foot massage. Now I have perfect toes.

Thursday May 15, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - I hate running errands late into the evening. But with Erik unable to put kiddos to bed - I cannot leave the abode until after 7:45 p.m. And it seems I cannot just walk out the door as my little patient is needing something at the last minute (I'm not complaining - it's just a fact.) I YEARN to sit and veg ...

Best Part of the Day - Got in a great workout and ran daytime errands with the kiddos in tow. Brought home soup and such for my little patient and he was much obliged.

Thursday May 15, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

When I got home late, late tonight Scarlet had just awoken to go the the bathroom.  She was her usual chipper and talkative self and thought it was quite fun to embrace and have a little chat in the night.  Before I tucked her back in, she said "I have a poem for you (and she looked around to quickly gather material for her off-the-cuff performance):

Night, night,

You are not so bright,

Room, room,

You need a broom,

I'll see ya tomorrow,

Ho ho.

Worst Part of the Day-

Will-O is doing a decent job of keeping up with the housework and such through all of my double-duty work madness.  It's just that I am dying to get on my hands and knees and really do a thorough spring cleaning.  But there's just no time to give in to my natural cleaning desires...this saddens a dust-phob like myself.  Take it from our poetess--Room, you do need a broom.

Wednesday May 14, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Oh it twas shower day for my stinky patient on the couch. And it was hard (for me) and hard (for him). He got woozy in the shower and it freaked me out. I did not enjoy seeing STAPLES holding puckered skin together - ugh. I did not enjoy feeling like he was going to fall when we went UP the stairs and DOWN the stairs. And finally we got him back to the couch and there he laid. As I walked to the kitchen and put my head down in a dramatic and emotional fashion. And I sat there until my patient called for something (which was about two minutes. Heh heh. Actually he really hasn't been that bad.)

Best Part of the Day - Do you think Steinbeck fashioned Lenny from "Of Mice and Men" after a 16 month old? This child! One minute he is kissing you with exaggerated noises and motions and the next he is pulling the sh#t out of your hair. He then stands there with his head cocked, thumb in mouth and blue eyes wide in adorable innocence. Then he is grabbing whatever is toward the edge of the counter. Okay - maybe it's not Lenny he's aping. Maybe it's some sort of crazy bipolar type with a case of the "grabby hands". Also - SB is now "drawing" letters. It's so odd - he can't make all the right sounds to speak but he is trying to write his letters. (And I have to say that his 'D' is pretty good.)

Wednesday May 14, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Liam loves me (anyone) to read him this baby book called Sleep.  Perhaps not surprisingly the book shows pics of little ones getting ready for bed and finally sleeping.  Liam will comment about each page in his 16 month way...awwww, ohhhhh, nigh nigh.   Today he kissed each of the book babies and said his standard nigh nigh repeatedly as he cocked his own head to the side to demonstrate hitting the sack.  He is a joy.

Worst Part of the Day-

I looked in the mirror and noted that my hair is in desperate need of a cut.  It is hippie long.

Tuesday May 13, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

I stopped by a mom and pop bike shop that is directly on my way to the hospital.  I've past it daily for the last months.  If the owner wasn't such a biking enthusiast I would think he was on cocaine.  This guy did not stop talking from the moment I entered the store until the moment I had to run out of the store because I was on the verge of being late for work.   The good news is that this guy is totally into customer service and bending over backwards to make a sale.  I ended up buying a Topeak baby bike seat that I've been eyeing online for almost $100.00 off.   Gotta love small town service.

Worst Part of the Day-

Scarlet went insane before leaving for preschool this morn.  She is very excited for summer and wants to wear little sun dresses and what not.  The thing is, it's freaking cold here still and I can't allow it without a jacket/sweater.  She will flip out when I try to alter her original fashion vision.  Sheesh.

Monday May 12, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

I am finally figuring out how to make things go my way...I purchased Will-O a new (think 1940's) manual push mower.  Will-O has been balking mowing as he talks gas prices, war on oil, people with perfect lawns are lonely and boring,,,,yes, yes, yes.  Now with the push mower he can be outside, get exercise, not waste an extra cent keeping the oil mongers loaded--all while showing the world that he is a shirtless environmentalist who means business.  And I can stop having this argument about how he needs to mow.

Worst Part of the Day-

I am 35 days into working 7 days per week.  Suddenly today I feel like I need a day off.  Soon.

Tuesday May 13, 2008

Best Part of the Day - The Realtor (Peggy) came on over and we talked about the house price. It looks like we can start at just about what the previous owner's started with (not to say we'll get it - but at least she agrees even in this market we can start with about the same asking price). But the best part came when she looked around the house and said "you don't need to do much picking up. It's just n0t very cluttered. Most people have piles everywhere." Ahhh. Music to my ears!! (SO LAME - but I do like a clutter free home.)

Worst Part of the Day - Poor ole Erik. He is just laying on the couch. We can't even have the TV on for the most part as the boys like to close the console so he can't change channels (and IMP will just start destroying DVDs and whatever else in in the console.) So he just lays there so pitifully. But he feels fine and tomorrow (thank GOD) is shower day.

Monday May 12, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Erik had to have knee surgery today. He was hoping that once they opened it up, the ACL would not be torn. Alas, alas, the ACL was torn and had to fixed. So after visiting him with the kids (BIG MISTAKE), I got the kids home, had a babysitter come over, picked up Erik, got him set on the couch, ran out to get his prescription and came now he is laid up on the couch. We can't even get him upstairs at this point. But at least it's over with and everything went well and now he can just recuperate.

Best Part of the Day - The boys in great moods. Gorgeous day. The black mood has lifted off our home and all is sunny. ALSO my good pal Val had her baby boy yesterday. Welcome to the world young Tristan!

Sunday May 11, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Still bad energy surrounds our home. No one in our domicile is happy - everyone is pissy. Sigh, sigh, sigh.

Best Part of the Day - The house is looking pretty dern good. The garage is (seriously) spotless, the front steps have been painted, the office de-cluttered and so on and so forth. Also I got to watch the season finale of Survivor which is one of my favorite nights of the year. Just me, reality tv and some Pinot N. Lovin' every minute of it!!

Saturday May 10, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - All day long we did home projects - cleaning, painting, scouring, raking, mulching .... and then (after being in fairly good spirits all day long) an evening argument that blew up into something big over something small. How stupid and annoying.

Best Part of the Day - The kiddos both punched out three plus hour naps giving us even more time to do our home projects. Also did make it through yoga and TNT class this morn.

Sunday May 11, 2008

Best Part of the Day-
Attending a brunch at my mom and dad's for a few hours prior to jetting off to the hospital. It's an extra special treat these days to have a homemade meal prepared and served to right to me. Fantastic to have the whole family together for a bit. Great to see the brothas and sistas and have the kids in the midst of it all! Yea for family.

Worst Part of the Day-
Not being able to imbibe on the yummy-appearing Mimosas and Blood Marys during brunch. Doh.

Saturday May 10, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

I got off 1 hour early from the hospital this eve.  Woo-hoo.  It gave me a chance to get some Mother's Day cards and flowers and a lil' appetizer in order for the gathering tomorrow morn. Thank heavens.  It was especially fun to be all set for bed and think "ha--I would/should still be in the madness of ER work right now."  Yeah.

Worst Part of the Day-

Man, the carpeting throughout this house have really taken a beating this week.  Everything from yogurt, soy milk, grape juice, ravioli, spit out apple (then ground into the floor) and even baby boy pee has blemished our poor (light-ass) carpeting in the last days.  For a household that has them professionally shampooed quarterly, has zero pets, and doesn't even allow shoes beyond the threshold, the carpeting looks like s**t.  

Friday May 9, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Just thinking about having to get this house ready for showings with two little ones and a dog makes me feel ..... tired. Very, very tired. Must energize.

Best Part of the Day - Erik's co-worker offered to babysit and we had an excellent Mexican dinner out. It was soooo nice to be able to talk and finish my sentence without crying, coughing, whining, and the like. And we had such a nice, pleasant conversation and nice, pleasant margaritas.
p.s. I've TRIED and TRIED - but I can't drink margaritas on the rocks. I know that is how they are supposed to be enjoyed but (in my opinion) FROZEN IS BEST!!!!

Friday May 8, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Will-O and kids surprised me by giving me my Mother's Day gifts and trinkets when I came home from work this eve (as I am schedule to work at the hospital on Sunday).  It was pretty precious.  Scarlet had a a full length gown and even had lipstick on her poofy cherubic lips--oh my.  She gave me a gorgeous orchid (my faves) and one of her homemade cards/picture combo.  Her presentation of the whole thing was akin to Vanna White, but this I adored.  I could tell immediately that Will-O has taken extra steps to tidy up.  Afterwards we took a family "walk" (I was being flexible as it was the kids' bedtime...)--Will-O strolled Liam in the jogger and Scarl and I rode bikes.  It really was lovely.

Worst Part of the Day-

Will-O had gotten up extra early to shower and prep for his Chicago recording this morn (yes, this again. He had resigned to going--it only made sense.)  He left for the train station.  Whew,out the door--thank heavens.  He came back twenty minutes later.  He had missed the train by 1 minute, thereby missing the "very important" recording.  Ohmylord.

Thursday May 8, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Both boys have congestion (the kind that rattles the chest) and coughs. Little IMP is le miserable. Neither is feeling fully well - and it seems they have had this for four days now! But it seems to be cycling back around. Dern them and their sharing o' germs. Also SB's year speech evaluation got canceled (I told him now he has another two weeks to cram) and the Realtor came over and was kind of optimistic. Man I hope we can sell this house. ALSO spent the night helping (really actually DOING) Erik's paperwork for his new job. It is no big deal to me - but I really just wanted to veg and watch Survivor. So I had two beers to ease the pain.

Best Part of the Day - Even though SB's year evaluation got canceled, his Speech Path still came over. She said that we could get him two/three months of service in Michigan and/or North Carolina. It seems that in every state every kiddos gets at home services until he or she turns three. So that is good news - a steady presence during our chaotic time!

Thursday May 8, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

I stopped by my friend's house to drop off a few things as it is quite close to Job #1.  I didn't even know if she was going to be home and I had planned to leave the items on her porch.  To my pleasant surprise she was home.  We had a delightful, high-energy chat and her positive vibe changed my whole mood prior to my 12 hours o'labor.  That's what friends are for.

Worst Part of the Day-

Will-O may or may not be found dead at my hands.  The man can sing a cappella at a funeral in a stone silent church and move every man, woman and child to tears.  But he can be an bonehead and it is driving me a titch nuts.  

(This is even draining to type...)

This morning I asked him if we could go over tomorrow's calendar.  (We are BIG on the calendar in this house...if it's not on the calendar, then by george, it's not happening--it's been like that for years...)  Anyhoo, he said "I can only handle things day by day."  What the hell, it's tomorrow!  I wanted to make sure we were clear that I have a massage on Friday at 11 and them am headed to Job #1 through the afternoon.  He agreed.

An hour later he says to me "Oh, I forgot I am going to Chicago tomorrow to record from 10am-3pm.  I'll get my mom to babysit while you go to the massage."  Hold up.  It's not just the massage on the calendar--I have to go to work as well.   He went into this big thing about how the studio is only available at that time (why isn't it on the trusty calendar?!), blah, blah.  

O.K. fine, I said.  I will call the sitter and have her cover the whole day and it will work out.  I call sitter, she is fine with it.  Ahh, settled.  (Annoying that is wasn't on the calendar, but it's all good now.)

An hour later Will-O calls me and says he feels bad about not having it on the calendar and says he feels like canceling the recording.  I tell him very clearly and plainly that I FORBID him to cancel as it is already set.  (It is fine, but moving forward we must remember the calendar is mandatory.)

Another hour later he calls me at work and says he definitely feels it is too much and he is not going to Chicago.  He already informed his band mate and the studio guy that it is simply too much with me working and the kids, etc.  (What is he talking about?  It's all set!)  As my eyeballs rolled back into the depths of my skull all I could do was marvel at how ridiculous this nonsense is.  At this point I may or may not have said "If you do not record something in Chicago tomorrow I may stab you."  (Healthy relationship, huh?)

What is the major malfunction (aside from me threatening physical violence?)  My lord and land.  Does it have to be so challenging?

Wednesday May 7, 2008

Worst Part of the Day-

Wowsers.  Just a dreadfully long day of work.  Toward the end of my 12-hour shift I was clumsy, uncoordinated and couldn't even think of normal, everyday words.  I could not think of the word "assessment" for roughly 2 hours.  Ugggg.  This Mama need to lie (the hell) down.

Best Part of the Day-

Smooching on the kiddos' soft kiddo cheeks.  Golly, I love 'em.

Wednesday May 7, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - So I have this Cappuccino maker which truly is my pride and joy. Sometimes I think to myself - "oh I can't wait to get up and have me a milky coffee drink!" (Seriously. I think this.) So today I'm making the drink (it's about a four step process which sounds labor intensive - but you just set it all up and press a button. It's not one of those "pod" type makers - it's a true coffee maker that actually steams the milk complete with foam. Just like a Starbucks or, in the NE, a Dunkin' Donuts.) So I notice that something is wrong - this happens from time to time as I will forget one of the parts. AND (disclosure) I did on accident crunch up the valve in the disposal - so it's doesn't fit perfectly anymore. But it's been working fine for weeks, so I think nothing of it. So I unplug it and redo the steps and set it and forget it. I'm just walking with SB into the kitchen when - a GEYSER explodes. A REAL GEYSER! The valve has come off and there is hot coffee, milk and water steaming up and covering the ceiling. UM okay. I try to get the stain off the ceiling to no avail. There is a dark ass stain on the ceiling. Sigh - one more chore to add to the list. AND no coffee. So sad.

Best Part of the Day - Erik was home early and we had a relaxing walk with the boyz. Then I hit the gym and we finished watching The Orphanage. I did enjoy it! A good, spooky movie!

P.S. HAPPY BIRTHDAY GINNY!!! Sweet, Sweet Sixty Six.

Tuesday May 6, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

I dare say that spring is officially here (yes, it's May but ya never know around these parts)--beautimus.

Worst Part of the Day-

Little Liam is still pretty miserable (i.e. clingy and whiney and even nonplussed by me blowing bubbles in the back yard which is a big sign.)  I told Will-O to scoot him over to Urgent Care (and we are NOT Urgent Care people, mind you...) if he doesn't perk up while I am at work this afternoon/eve.  It is not fun for the little man.

Tuesday May 6, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Just spent loads and loads of time and ca$h at the grocery store. Man - it was about twice what I usually spend, took FOREVER and it's not like we're even overly stocked up.

Best Part of the Day - Talked with a Realtor (notice capital letter 'R' - they are sticklers on that you know) and she is going to come over on Thursday. She also was VERY VERY positive about our house and the market - one house around the corner from us was on the market for ONE DAY and sold. Okay, so Erik was very skeptical about this - but I am WILLING TO BELIEVE!!!
Also SB will now read along with Moo, Baaa, La La La and it is totally ADORABLE. His cat sound is hilarious - it really sounds like a cat.

Lastly, we are watching The Orphanage. Very good so far .... but will reserve further judgement until I can see the ending.

Monday May 5, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

I went to my new Cardiologist for a standard follow-up (for minor congenital issues).  I have been given a clean bill of (baboon) heart health.  No need to be seen in this realm for 2 years.   Feels good to defy the odds of conservative medicine.  I will live on!

Worst Part of the Day-

I left the house at 10:30am and returned at 12:30am.   Whew.  Sing it with me:  "Working 10A to 12A ... what an annoying way to make a living..."

Sunday May 4, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Went to a brunch with fellow gang members (just friends, Mom--not actual Latin Kings).  A gorgeous sunny day with many Bloody Mary's---mmmm.  

When I walked in the door in the the late afternoon the kids ran into my arms.  Scarlet said "I just told Liam I wished you would come home...and here you are!"  Ta da.

Worst Part of the Day-

I am truly in the featherweight class when it comes drinking.  I cannot hold a candle to my former self.  I am woozy and parched...

Monday May 5, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Okay I am DONE with this Realtor!! He claimed he would call and/or stop by today and there was NO word from him. So I'm over it. If I can't get him to call me back now - just think how it will be after he gets the business. No thank you.

Best Part of the Day - We are getting some stuff done around here. Today I cleaned out (well partially cleaned out) the garage and our closet. Our friend Bill came over and we made a list of all sorts of things to get done .... I think we'll be ready by the end of the week.

Things I've Been Thinking About

No offense to Natalie Portman - but aren't she and her new boyfriend just a less good looking version of our own Billy and Megan?
http://stereogum.com/archives/natalie-portman-devendra-banhart-are-in-love_009248.html

Do you like the ginger served alongside sushi? Then try the ginger flavored Yogi Tea. It is AMAZING.

Ladies - go get a bra fitting done. It's changed my life.

I can't spin around anymore - it makes me dizzy after about one and a half turns.

Did Steve from Blue's Clues really get fired for using drugs? I can't say that I blame him - I mean "acting" with an imaginary blue dog in front of a screen for 1,000 episodes might break even the strongest man.

Why o why do we have so much STUFF??

Sunday May 4, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Erik still in a snit of a mood - a black cloud is over the household.

Best Part of the Day - My office is de-cluttered and clean, clean, clean! Hopefully the realtor will call and/or stop by tomorrow. We should have the majority of painting, yard work and small home repairs done by the end of the week. Then the house showings can begin and it can really screw up life.

Saturday May 3, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Imagine this. You get yourself to the gym for a 8:15 a.m. yoga class. As you are pulling in to the parking lot, you note there are not many spaces. So you pull up to the curb. You MIGHT have been singing and dancing to some lame song, so you're not paying 100% attention. Suddenly a BANG and a WOOSH. Uh oh. You get out of the car to find the passenger side tire on the front side totally shredded. So then I called my roadside assistance and they sent someone to change my spare. He couldn't get the lug nuts off so I have to dive ON THE RIM to the next door (THANK GOD) Firestone place. They get the lug nuts off asap with some gun thang. But they don't have my tires in stocks. SO I take a chance and drive that sucker to the Honda dealership and they are (whew) able to get me right in and get 'er done. So let's review - no workout, slashed tire and expen$e to fix it. Great morning! And when should I tell Erik? His mood is so crappy right now - I might have to wait a few (years) days. But really can you believe that the tire was ruined at 8:15 a.m. and by 10:02 a.m. I was out the door with a new tire? Not too shabby!!

Best Part of the Day - We went to an ingenious birthday party. It was at a restaurant so I was worried - but we had a basement room (with gate!) with plenty of games and drawing implements. It was all buffet of salad, pizza and chicken tenders. My children were still quite crazy (I mean how are they to know that all the presents are not for them?) - but it was a contained crazy and made a grey, rainy day MUCH better!!!

Friday May 2, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Time to get the hair did. It just takes soooo long for the cut and color. But the time passed by quickly and I tried not to focus on what I could have been doing ....

Best Part of the Day - The ladies at the salon were raving about this Zoe's place. It's basically a bra fitting store. I had an extra 30 minutes after the hair thang and so I popped in. It was EDUCATIONAL. I have been wearing the wrong bra size for .... well twenty years??? I highly recommend going to one of these places - it was amazing. I feel uplifted and downright perky about it (welllll - maybe not perky, but at least happy with a firm foundation.)

Thursday May 1, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Well - I almost made it through the workout class. But then with eight minutes to go (only abs and stretching to go folks), I get called out. There is a melee of crying in the gym childcare. After I walk in, three other mamas come in to get their kiddos. I fear that mine may have started it! But then again, he was in there for 45 plus minutes .. so maybe I shouldn't blame. Then it took me ten minutes to actually leave the gym because the SB just wouldn't leave. He shook his head at me and stood his ground. Sigh. So much fun especially when four moms, two childcare workers and ten kids are watching.

Best Part of the Day - We visited Erik's office after the gym because we had to drop off his pager. It wasted much time. Then Steph asked if her girls could come over after school and I said "hell yeah!" Well maybe I didn't say that - but I'm always up for late afternoon entertainment. Then Steph and the girls stayed for dinner and Erik met friends out. By 8:30 p.m. I was watching DVR'd Survivor with some soup.

Saturday May 3, 2008

Worst Part of the Day-

Littlest Li is majorly bumming with vomiting and fever.  Arrrgggh.

Best Part of the Worst Part of the Day-

My mom entertained (and surely was entertained by) Scarlet today from roughly 11am-4pm. Thank heavens.  This allowed me to lay and hold and cuddle with my sickie sick boy.  Liam and I laid arm in arm for 5-ish hours as he was still feeling miserable.  A high fever was added to the not-so-fun list today.  He would doze in and out of sleep with one baby hand always on me.  He would heave and cry and I would wipe and coddle.  I was only pleased that I was able to care for him in this leisurely way (i.e. did not have to work at hospital today--did not have to tend to Miss Thang.)  My only job was to care for my boy--Nurse Mama is back in.

Best Part of the Day-

Will-O is trying his hand at producing (in addition to performing) music.  He missed much of the fun with vomiting as he was in the studio all day.  This evening he played me five songs that were recorded today.  They blew me away.  They are fantastic, simple and powerful.  Bravo.  

Friday May 2, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

I had a good night at work.  I was complimented by several staff (1 doc and a bunch of nurses) asking me to stay on with them longer than my contracted 2 weeks left.   I went with my gut feeling about an 8 year-old girl who came in complaining of constipation for 4 days.   The doctor was going to work her up for only this when I said I sensed she was a appendicitis and constipation was a symptom of this (they can be stingy with CAT scans here).  The doc "do what you want" so I ordered labs and a CT and low and behold she had an appendicitis and was whisked away to the OR.   Doctor Mama is in.

Worst Part of the Day-

Can anyone believe my Little Liam threw up again all over sheets, blankets and 2 sets of his jammies and 2 sets of mine tonight?  It seems like we just did this yicky song and pukey dance...poor littlest man.  

Thursday May 1, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Because I grew up with the crappiest of crappy cars I semi-know many little car fix-its.  One little fix-it with dead car batteries is to fill the battery cells with distilled water and somehow this helps with the electrical something to the something.  (Who knew?)  It was a beautiful morning and Will-O had strolled kids over to the sitter's so I thought I would take a block and a half walk myself to our neighborhood store and get distilled water to try my luck.  The store didn't carry distilled water so I decided to be a slacker and cut through a parking lot on the corner.  As I cut through the lot I glanced up at the sign and saw "Car Care Center".  Huh. I had never noticed this sign before (yes I have driven past this daily for 2 years) and went in to see if they could help me.  Ta da!  A cheerful twenty-something guy says of course they can help.  He kindly walked to the house with me in the gorgeous sunshine, jumped the dead-ass car in the garage and we took the 20 second drive to the luscious "Car Care Center".  Within an hour I had a new battery installed, and oil change (on my to-do list) and new windshield wipers (much needed).   

Worst Part of the Day-

When I took a rare bathroom break at the hospital I made the mistake of looking at myself in the mirror.  Note to self:  harsh, fluorescent lights coupled with very little sleep equals a haggard old lady face.  Where oh where are you Restalyne?

Wednesday April 30, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - SB now is really talking. I just can't understand what he is saying. It is frustrating for me and for him as he suddenly has decided "MY OPINIONS COUNT! THEY COUNT MORE THAN ANYONE ELSE'S!" Excellent for child development (he's just about right on cue), not so excellent for me. Oh and I can understand that he is saying "Blue's Clues" about 70 times per day. Sorry, kiddo, just because you can say it doesn't mean you get it.

Best Part of the Day - Talked with an old pal from college who I have not talked to in six months (even though she lives VERY close). It was sooo nice to catch up with her - we were laughing so hard remembering all the stupid things we used to do. Here's wishing her luck on the pregnancy front!!

Wednesday April 30, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

A smooth sailing day in the Emergency Department.  Phew.

Worst Part of the Day-

As I was leaving the hospital tonight the air was chilly and crisp.  I was so pleased to be done with the day and was could only think of taking a hot shower and getting into my flannel jammies as soon as I got home.   I put the key into the car ignition.   Silence.   Aw man, the car wouldn't start. It wasn't a huge ordeal as I walked back into the hospital and the security guard jumped the car straight away, but still--car issues.  This damn car is only 4 years-old--unlike the decade-challenged cars of my childhood.  This annoys.

Tuesday April 29, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

The kids are waking up earlier and earlier (that is not the best part).  This morn both Will-O and I were begging the gods of slumber for 2 more minutes.  Scarlet said "Don't worry I'll take care of Liam..."  We both laid in bed for a few minutes and we could hear the bubbly Scarlet assist Liam from his crib.  We then heard the pitter patter of footsteps going downstairs.  Good morning, Liam.  Hiiiii.  Then were heard PBS Kids on t.v.  When I came down 2 minutes later I saw Liam in his highchair eating a blueberry muffin.  Scarlet was pleased as punch as she said "I buckled him in his chair and pulled apart his muffin into bite-sized pieces--for safety.  You only owe me 2 dollars for baby sitting."  I will gladly pay this each morning.  God love the maturation process.

Worst Part of the Day-

Will-O was taking Scarlet to preschool this morning and then he and Liam were headed to the gym.  As they were leaving Will-O said to me with a smirk, "Well enjoy your MANY hours of blissful free time."  And I sat there thinking, huh, you really don't know that I am about to clean the entire house from top to bottom and do 4 loads of wash before I shower and get ready for work this afternoon.  I'm not sure that can be called either free time or bliss.