10 Things I Can't Live Without

Although I wasn't asked to participate in a local interview/publication like my coworker Ramsey, I did find the concept pretty interesting and blog-post worthy. Since the rules state that these must be tangible things (things that other people could get to make their lives more livable would be my guess) I of course can't list my spouse or kids or friends or co-workers or anyone like that. Nor can I list love, faith, etc. I won't list my laptop or Internet or anything "common" like that, since everyone who knows me knows those are a personal AND business requirement in not only my life, but in most people's these days!

So, to round out 2008, here's my list of 10 things I can't live without (not necessarily in this order):

1. My 3rd gen. pink iPod
   It gets me through the work day and every workout. I make sure it's always charged or charging when not in use, as I never know when I'll really need it to get me through housework, driving with the kids (or without them!) or any old part of my day where silence wouldn't be conducive. I've currently got 3 "real" movies on there, 2 short home movies, 3 GB of songs, some pics and some contacts from Outlook. I need to update it to remove the Christmas music and change out the movies, but otherwise, it's always got the basics to get me through any noise-needed crisis!
   
   
2. Puff-Daddy the Cat
   Now, he might fall under the "people/feelings" rule, but seriously, I have to have a pet that I can pet. Fish don't count, although our three tanks can be pretty relaxing to look at. I claim not to like our cat but mostly cuz he's a stalker - of me. He's a good mouser, warm body on the feet, snuggle kitty and he does make most days much easier to get through. And yes, most anyone could get one of these fur balls!
   
   
3. Sony CyberShot Camera
   Now, I don't claim to use this everyday, but since I got it for Mother's Day a few years ago, it's documented SOOOOOO many moments of the kids playing sports, family times, holidays, office events, and just general life. It made Christmas gifts so EASY for everyone this year and it's just such an easy-to-use little guy. He makes me smile. :-)
   
   
4. Nike+ System
   I'm still fairly new to the whole running game, but this little gadget makes me feel SO amazing. I can see just how far I've gone on each run and how long it took to get there. Beyond that, I can see my pace, how it rose and fell or how it stayed even-keeled. And with the corresponding website I even got to make a mini-me. She tells me I've done a great job or gets a little bitchy when I haven't worked out in awhile. All in all, the system works for me as a motivational tool and I wouldn't dream of doing a run or race without it.
   
   
5. Treadmill
   It's old and none of the main controls really work anymore. But, it treads and I run and walk on it and it saves me from being outside in 10 degree weather. Or from running in the dark, which my hubby doesn't really like. Or from running in the park alone, another thing my hubby doesn't like. It also means that I have NO excuse for not working out, since it's just sitting there, waiting for me to slip into workout clothes and running shoes, snap on the iPod with Nike+ and get moving. Oh how I hate it some days...
   
   
6. Mary Kay Makeup
   OK - Makeup in general, but that was a shameless plug for my MK business. :-) Without makeup, those of you who see me everyday would not be happy. Makeup can wake you up, make you feel a little better about yourself, put a spring in your step or just cover up those big ole bags under your eyes. Unless I know I'll be sitting on my keester all day at home, I very rarely don't do at least SOMETHING with my face. And sometimes even when I know only my boys will see it, I still have to do something!
   
   
7. iTunes Movies
   Yeah, they're a little expensive. And I can only fit about 3 of them on my handy little iPod. But, these movies get me through my work day SO much! Yeah, I watch movies while I'm working (but mostly I'm just listening as I've watched the same 10 movies about 30 times now!) Since streaming video can be unreliable and using THAT at work tends to slow everyone down this is the next best thing.
   
   
8. Starbucks Coffee
   Or any kind of coffee house coffee. Having been without for one month now (yeah, even though I ended the Challenge I still never got a cup!) I realize just how good it was. Our office coffee has fallen down considerably even with a machine switch and I can barely drink it anymore! I can't wait to use the Starbucks card Santa slipped me this year!
   
   
9. Blue Pens
   I am a sucker for office supplies. I could spend HOURS in Office Depot, Office Max or Staples; there's just something about those types of stores that makes you feel productive. And within all those places are pens and pens and pens and pens and maybe a few more pens. And although black seems to be the choice of the business world, I prefer a nice, smooth blue one. Preferably a Bic but not necessarily required. Just blue. They make me smile. Oh...but don't get me started on RED pens. Blue pens are necessary but the red ones - WOW! :-)
   
   
10. My Bible
    When I am doing the "right stuff" for a good Christian woman, that book saves me so much grief. It's a story book, it's a guidance counselor, it's uplifting and it's come-back-down-to-earth. Maybe if I trusted the words in it again, things would make more sense and I could move beyond my rift with the church. Guess I can technically live without it, but I can't live happily so I'm going to have to make at least one resolution to pick it back up in 2009!

That's it. I'd LOVE to hear your list. Feel free to post a comment with your 10 things or a link to your own blog post of 10. :-)

Christmas 2008

Christmas 2008 in pictures. Enjoy!

Visiting Santa - on December 23.

Yeah, I forgot and they had to remind me. Oops!

Christmas Eve
they got to open jammies and presents from siblings only.

The "haul" for this year.

Seriously - didn't we say we were going to cut back??

Playing the guitars from Gigi and Jeep.

Look closely - they're BOTH holding them backward for their handedness!

Em with one of her favorite gifts.

She got several Twilight themed items and couldn't have been happier!

Playing with the Wii from Gram and Papa Smurf.

I think Tom is celebrating his first Bowling strike.

Nerf Dart wars. Exactly WHAT was I thinking?

I need to get me and Em our own guns for retaliation!

(Joe is on his own!)

Travis opening his new jammies and robe.

Who knew kids could get so excited about night clothes?!

Me, with the hippo Em found and purchased on her own.

I named him "Herbert" and he was welcomed into the Hippo Family.

More Pictures...

Moments for Myself - 22 December

"We expect too much at Christmas. It's got to be magical. It's got to go right. Feasting. Fun. the perfect present. All that anticipation. Take it easy. Love's the thing. The rest is just tinsel."

- Pam Brown, Moments for Myself, Daily Inspiration Calendar

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I needed this one today, as I have been so worried about all the presents and the decorations and trying to keep our few "traditions" going (like getting the tree up on Thanksgiving weekend, buying our annual Hallmark ornaments, seeing the Longview Lights, visiting Santa, making Christmas cookies, etc.), that I think I forgot about some of the most important things! Have I been so obsessed with these details that I forgot to teach my kids about giving and thinking about others?

However, when I saw my kids make their babysitter open her Christmas present this morning, before she could even take off her coat, I realized maybe I've done ok. My kids are a lot like me - they're more excited about seeing other people open their presents and what they GAVE than about what they might GET.

They searched under the tree last night when I was done wrapping, not for their own names but for others - to see how many presents other people had - and then they asked me what was in each one. As I filled them in on the details, they would say stuff like "oh, he'll really get to use that" or "she's going to LOVE that!" So, maybe I haven't missed too many of the finer points and they really ARE getting it!

But, I still want to make those cookies on Wednesday...

Moments for Myself - 19 December

What do you really need that you don't already have? think of all the things that you have been listing in your head - new kitchen cabinets, a pair of boots, new curtains for the kids' room, a trip to some warm place. Maybe it's time to start a new list, a list of blessings. Counting our blessings is one way we begin to appreciate what we already have.

- Moments for Myself, Daily Inspiration Calendar

"Skipping Starbucks" Update

I am officially calling an end to my "Skipping Starbucks" Challenge. Mostly because I feel like I've made my point and with the tens cups I would have bought in the last three weeks, I'll be donating $50 to Operation Breakthrough. But, also because I made myself a "poor man's cafe mocha" this morning and it's bad. I need a real coffee and I will be getting one as soon as I get off work at noon! :)

So, if you played along with me this month - THANK YOU! Please let me know what you gave up, how you did and where you'll be donating the savings. If you didn't do it, you still have two weeks where you can make a difference!

Have a Merry Christmas everyone!

"Skipping Starbucks" Challenge

On Monday, December 1, Starbucks will be giving 5 cents to (RED) and AIDS research in Africa. Sounds pretty sweet, right?

I was pretty excited about the (Starbucks) RED idea until it really hit me. 5 CENTS per drink? Really? That's a little bogus. They're going to make how much more because people want to "do good" with a cup of coffee that they may not have originally purchased and they're only going to give 5 CENTS of that to charity? And a charity that's not local or even in the US - it's for AFRICAN AIDS programs!

Don't get me wrong, (RED) is a good cause. But, sometimes the US needs to help those in the US FIRST and I think we tend to forget that there are homeless, sick and hurt in our own country just as there are in other places. And don't get me wrong - I like Starbucks just fine myself (had a cup while I was at Target today...). I just think we can do better than buying coffee and donating only 5 cents to charity.

So - I hereby offer a challenge to all you Starbucks drinkers who may want to do some REAL good for charity this holiday season...

Instead of buying Starbucks this one month, put that money aside for charity instead. If you can't live without for a whole month, do it for 2 weeks - or even just 1 week. Imagine that instead of a company giving up 5 cents per drink toward a charity, you could be putting anywhere from $5 to 50 to even 100 dollars toward one of your choosing (which could still be (RED), by the way)!

I know that I personally get a venti white mocha with flavor at least once a week - usually Friday to get through our Account Service meetings. Regular coffee would do just as well in this case but I use that meeting as my excuse to have a "real" cup of coffee. If I skip that one-a-week this month, that's about $5 / wk or $20 for the month. Then there's also the 1 or 2 times a week that a co-worker goes to Starbucks in the afternoon and I get a cup then too. Or the occasional coffee cake or muffin or what-have-you. That's another $20 a month - minimum! That's at least $40 towards a charity *I* strongly believe in, instead of indulging in over-priced (but oh-so-yummy) coffee!

There are so many charities in KC alone that could use every penny of that money. Operation Breakthrough comes first to mind, as it is the beneficiary for our holiday sweater party. There's cancer groups (Cancer Action, KU Cancer Center or Back in the Swing), leukemia groups, Harvesters or even the Zoo! Any way you slice it, you would be doing more good by NOT drinking Starbucks for one month than by buying one cup on one specific day. And if you don't know where to send your money here locally, just ask me - I've got more than a few suggestions of great charities (beyond those linked above...)!

For those who work with me, I'll have a special "Skipping Starbucks" can setup at the office. Feel free to put your coffee money in there - donations in that can will be given exclusively to Operation Breakthrough. For those who aren't privileged enough to work for DEG, please think about setting up your own "collection plate" and setting an example. Office coffee may not be the best, but for one month can you live with it, right? Rest assured, once December is over, you'll feel good about what you chose to do!

(Not a Starbucks drinker? Not a problem! Pick another restaurant or activity that you do that you could really live without for this month and put the money from that away. Every little bit will help!)

Jingle Bell Run Update

My 2nd race was today. Read about it here:

http://2008accountability.blogspot.com/2008/11/jingle-bell-run-update.html

Moments for Myself - 07 November

Much of what is sacred is hidden in the ordinary, everyday moments of our lives. To see something of the sacred in those moments takes slowing down so we can live our lives more reflectively.

- Ken Gire, Moments for Myself, Daily Inspirational Calendar

Running update

Please read an update on my running in the other blog:

http://2008accountability.blogspot.com/2008/11/running-update.html

Moments for Myself - 06 November

Moments of happiness. Have you counted yours?

We often have so much time invested in dealing with the moments of crisis that we don't have time to fully appreciate the moments of happiness.

The next time you have a few minutes, start listing them. You'll find as you write them that you relive them, making more happy moments.

- Moments for Myself, Daily Inspiration Calendar

Halloween

Pictures for Halloween activities, cuz it's so much easier this way... : )

Just follow the links and enjoy the fun!

HillOween Costume Party

Pumpkin Patching and Carving

Beggars Night

Soccer - Fall 2008

Miss E

MORE PICTURES

Pumpkin Run Results

The Pumpkin Run was last Saturday and the results are in...

My official race time was 51:17 with a shot gun start. For those of you who are non-runners or newbies like me, this means that everyone's time is based off the shotgun (start) but not unnecessarily a specific indicator of how fast each individual actually ran, since it takes some time for each runner to actually cross the finish line!

Since I had my iPod and handy Nike+attached, I was able to get my "actual" time as well. For me, this was 41:04. My goal was to finish in less than 45 minutes and I DID IT! Yea me!

I didn't get an "official" race photo, so you don't get to see me in my pretty BRIGHT orange t-shirt. But, I was there and it was fun.

Next race...Jingle Bell 5k on November 16 (other than cold...it's supposed to be very cold...we'll see how THAT works!)

Typical Spoiled American (Blog Action Day)

In a typical middle-class American way today, I've already done the following things:

• Woken up in a soft, warm bed to an alarm clock
• Turned down the heater because it was too warm in my 1600 sq ft home
• Took a HOT shower and dried off with a clean towel
• Put on makeup and did my hair with a hair dryer and a curling iron
• Got dressed after sorting through too many options in my closet
• Worked on a computer with Internet access and a wireless home network
• Watched cable TV on THREE different TVs throughout my home
• Reviewed the bill for dental work my kids received with a note to call the insurance company about what wasn't covered
• Wrote checks for school parties and sports activities, as well as credit cards and other household bills
• Woke up my two boys from their soft, warm beds
• Fed my boys warm pop-tarts and cold milk
• Hustled my boys through making their lunches, brushing their teeth and getting dressed in clean clothes
• Moved a load of laundry through the system - washer, dryer, and hangars & baskets
• Put out steak and pork chops to be grilled for our dinner tonight
• Drove my kids to school and then myself to the job I've held for over 5 years in a large minivan with a full tank of gas
• Considered stopping at two different Starbucks on the way to work, but decided to wait until Friday for that "indulgence"
• Worked on another computer with Internet access for a company that builds websites
• Talked on a RAZR cell phone and a land line phone
• Looked at pictures of my family on a digital picture frame
• Watched a movie and listened to music on my iPod Nano third gen
• Used Facebook and other Internet sites to connect to friends and family
• Bought lunch at the café next door to my office

And this was all before NOON! And I could place a bet that your day, although not the exact same, involved many of the same activities listed above and maybe more!

So, why do I list of all of these luxuries in a post about poverty? Simply put, I (apparently) don't understand first-hand the concept of "poverty".

Growing up, I know money was tight as my mom was raising three kids alone from the time I was 7. Yet, we always had a house to live in and food on the table. Although I wore some hand-me-downs from my older brother, being a girl there were some things that had to be bought just for me and they were always there when I needed them. I had a bike and my mom always had a car and could afford gas for that car. We took family vacations - usually to see other family members - and we did fun things, just maybe not as much as other people. I had piano lessons, played in the school band, and played sports - all of which cost money and sometimes a lot more than I realized back then. We had good Christmases and great birthdays. We never really went without, although now I see that we were probably "lower class" or "poor" in terms of how much money we had.

I know there are people in the world who do not have 'enough'. For me as an adult, like many Americans, not having 'enough' is the equivalent of cutting back on eating out as gas prices rise or foregoing a new clothes I don't need so I can take my family on a vacation. Not having 'enough' means having to wait for my paycheck before I can pay off a credit card. It means only having Starbucks once a week or making my lunch instead of buying it for a few days. It means I can't buy the newest iGadget as soon as it comes out or wear the latest fashion trends all the time. It means I'm a typical spoiled American.

I think we, as middle-class (and higher) Americans, take for granted the things we do and have and don't really think about the fact that there are people in the world - and, yes, even in AMERICA - that do not have enough money to get even the basic necessities in life.

They don't have a paycheck coming in on a regular basis, if at all. They don't have a house to go home to or a bed to sleep in. They don't have a car to take them places and probably can't afford the bus or subway either. Many of us look at walking or running as a hobby or a way to stay in shape but those without money look at it as their only form of transportation - and hope their shoes last through the winter. They don't have clean clothes or even clean bodies most times. Food is a need sometimes met from the trash of others and good, warm food is a luxury. Medical, dental and vision care and the insurance to help pay for that care are virtually unheard of. Education for children is received at public schools, if at all - and extracurricular activities like sports and music are a mere dream.

What I'd like you to take from this post is how absolutely LUCKY you are to be sitting in a room, using a computer hooked up to the Internet, with clothes on your back, probably having eaten several times today, with plans to talk on the phone or watch TV tonight and then fall into a real bed.

Some of these things are basic necessities (shelter, clothing, sustenance) and others are pure luxuries (electricity, a computer, Internet access, a bed, a phone, a TV) - and YOU HAVE THEM. Or have access to them. You are not lacking! Be thankful for what you have and then take a little of that to share with others.

On this blog action day, thousands of bloggers the world-round are writing about ways to help those in need. Suggestions of organizations that take donations, such as Operation Breakthrough here in Kansas City, are placed on blogs in the hope that the link will be followed and a donation given (hint, hint - click that link!). Other sites suggest ways to go out and help alleviate the problem by conscious action. Any way around it, the "haves" need to do a little to help the "have-nots" to make the world a better place. Do what you can and then say a little prayer that YOU are a "have".

Posted for:

Flag Football 2008

Thomas


Travis


Coach Joe

There's a lot more photos, but you'll have to search for ones where you can see the boys - it's a lot of muddy, muddled huddles and "action" shots!

Homework Woes

Last year, I was frustrated that my boys had to be in only half-day kindergarten and then had to bring home work because there wasn't enough time in a half-day for the teachers to get through all the curriculum. Now, as first graders, I thought it'd be better since they're there all day. Nope - it got worse.

This year (so far...), the boys have 15 minutes of math, 10-15 minutes of reading, spelling words and "sight" words practice (words they have to know "by sight" since the usual phonics rules don't apply - like "have" and "was").

This comes to about 30 - 45 minutes of work after they were in school for 7 hours! What gives? This weekend, they had everything but the math ("Free Fridays" on math) and my 8th grade daughter had NOTHING. Yep - not a single thing to work on. She didn't have long term projects, lots of math or social studies questions, not even a book report due!

The hubby and I discussed this and the more we talk about it, the more we agree that when kids get home at night, especially younger kids, they should have the time to be KIDS - running outside, building things, doing crafts, baking cookies and just generally decompressing.

By the time we're able to get off work and pick them up, it's already 5pm (which is also part of the problem - neither of us is ever able to leave on time and the 20-30 minutes drive between our jobs and home is another time eater - but that's another rant). Three nights a week they have sports they choose to participate in (2 football nights and 1 karate). With dinner, baths and sleep routine (aka, cuddle time) that leaves about an hour or so to just be kids. Oh - wait - in that hour they now have to get in the 30 - 45 minutes of HOME WORK!

This was their schedule just for today:

• Get up at 7:45 am
• Leave for school at 8:30
• School from 8:50 to 3:50 pm
• After-care until pickup at around 5
• Football practice from 5:30 to 7
• Dinner at 7:00
• Showers from 7:15 to 7:30
• Homework from around 7:30 until 8:15
• Cuddle/chill time until 8:30
• Bedtime at 8:30

Tomorrow is essentially the same thing, except we have dinner then karate instead of football then dinner. Wednesday and Thursday is a little looser since there isn't a sports practice on those days, but we do have Emily on Wednesdays which muddies up the works some.

Is it really any wonder adults are workaholics and stressed all the time? Apparently, we're taught to be this way from our youngest school years. I can see the stress and unhappiness in my Travis' eyes whenever we pull out the homework folders. He struggles with it more than Thomas, but beyond that, he just wants some time to play and watch some cartoons. He got about 5 minutes of TV today - and that was only because I didn't catch him right after his bath to jump on the homework! Thomas didn't get any TV at all. And neither of them got "downtime" today. And there won't really be any tomorrow either. there may be some on Wednesday and Thursday, but by that time in their week they're bushed. By Saturday they're just crabby and whiny and we spend a lot of Saturdays just being lazy around the house trying to recoup from the insanity of the week!

So, what kind of America would we live in if we simply allowed kids to be creative and free-thinkers (aka, "themselves") for those few hours at night instead of forcing them into MORE schoolwork and conformative thought? Would our kids know how to leave work at the office and spend time with their kids when they grow up? Would they get more sleep and be happier in general? What exactly are we teaching our kids LONG TERM with "homework"?

Anyway, just a little venting and food for thought. I gotta go check my work email and test a few websites now. *sigh*

A Year in The Life

A co-worker of mine is a great scrapbook maker and has committed to doing a "week in the life" scrapbook project - where she'll be taking pictures, writing notes, etc. for an entire week. Trying to get down the little things that happen in her week. While I think that's very cool, I just don't have the time to commit to do that right now.

However, every year I do make a scrapbook calendar for the great-grandparents and I have a hard time always coming up with good stuff to include. I was inspired by her project to modify my own. And, since Wednesday is the 1st of a month, I think this is a good time to implement it!

So, on the first weekend of each month (or 1st day we have Emily!), I will take a picture of all three kids, separate and together. A family picture if I can get the hubby to agree. Preferably it will be a "seasonal" based picture - like with pumpkins or Christmas decorations or Valentine's etc. Then, I'll try to keep a good calendar/journal of all the activities we do for the month - like in October alone the boys have 3 field trips, 2 Halloween parties, Karate and a host of football games. Emily has soccer, movies with friends, school projects, etc. I've got a work event, Halloween parties, karate, running goals (and my first race!) and other things. Joe of course has football. :-)

Between now and next October, I'll be able to have a good set of photos and notes to create my 'in-depth' calendars for the grandparents for next Christmas (not sure how I'll do THIS year's yet!). A glimpse back at where we were as we plan for where we're going type of thing.

I figure if I can devote just one solid day to this a month, I can get a good calendar/scrapbook out of it. If I can keep it up over several years, how much better will that be! Let me know how you would improve on this idea - suggestions always welcome!! :)

Running Advice Needed!

Please read this post on my other blog - http://2008accountability.blogspot.com/2008/09/running-advice-needed.html

Then - HELP ME!

All advice is welcome. Thanks!

MY FIRST RACE

I just signed up to do my first "race" - The Jared Coones Pumpkin Run/Walk 5k here in Olathe, KS. It's a 3-mile course that I'm somewhat familiar with as it's in my BF Tina's old neighbordhood, more or less (I think...)

I know I can do 3 miles within an hour easily and hopefully I can push myself to do better than that. But, this adventure will be a good thing for me, no matter how I do. At the very least, I'll get a sense of what participating in a run will be like and what are some of the "To Do / NOT To Do" tips I've read might work for me (or not).


I'm also trying to raise additional funds for this worthy cause along with running in it. If you could contribute to my tiny little goal of $100, I would really appreciate it. Please follow this link to make a pledge now. Any amount will help me meet this goal!! THANKS!

Marathon Trainig Update

Tonight, best ever in lots of areas!

Time: 30 minutes - longest ever!
Mileage: 2 miles - farthest ever!
Pace: 14:45 - not my best ever, but still pretty good for me!
Calories Burned: 265 - probably the most ever, except maybe on the day I gave birth to the twins! :)

Days till Marathon - 185 and counting...

WHOO HOO!

Current Events

Sorry, this post isn't about me or the kids and our fun doings. It's literally "Current Events" - those upcoming events that I work on or with at my job with Digital Evolution Group. Be sure to check them out if you haven't already. Even if you can't attend or participate, please consider making a monetary donation to help their causes - every little bit helps!

PUMPKIN RUN/WALK
The 10th Annual 5k Run/Walk will take place on Saturday, October 11 and will benefit these organizations - Children's Mercy Cancer Center, The Dream Factory, The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Heart of America Bone Marrow Donor Registry, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Solace House, and the Jared Coones Memorial Foundation. Register to participate NOW or find out more about the event here: http://www.pumpkinrunwalk.org. Registration is currently $20 per person.

BACK IN THE SWING RETAIL THERAPY EVENT
The 9th Annual Retail Therapy Shopping Extravaganza is back and helping breast cancer survivors get Back in the Swing of life! Buy a $25 discount card and take advantage of 20% savings (or similar discounts) at over 800 Kansas City area retailers and restaurants from October 13 - 19! 100% of the proceeds from card purchases goes to benefit various cancer research and survivorship programs in the Greater Kansas City area. Get your card today at http://www.backintheswing.org! You can also purchase special BITS branded merchandise online this year. click on the image below to find out more information!

HILLOWEEN
The 8th annual costume party benefiting the Lee Ann Britain Infant Development Center at Shawnee Mission Medical Center will be on Saturday, October 18! Specifically, they are raising money to build the new Autism Therapy Program. RSVP now at http://www.hilloween.org! Tickets are $50 for regular attendance or $100 for R.I.P. attendance. There will also be an online auction from October 2 - 16 with over 100 items available ranging from trips to jewelry to toys for the kids. Don't miss out on your chance to get a great item and help others at the same time!

And, although it's not in October, and we don't have a website done for it yet, be sure to mark your calendars for the 4th Annual Ugly Christmas Sweater Party benefiting Operation Breakthrough. We'll be getting dressed down and having a grand old time at Tower Tavern on December 12, 2008! Be there or be square!

Moments for Myself - 10 September 2008

Not every day of our lives is overflowing with joy and celebration. But there are moments when our hearts nearly burst within us for the sheer joy of being alive. the first sight of our newborn babies, the warmth of love in another's eyes, the fresh scent of rain on a hot summer's eve - moments like these renew in us a heartfelt appreciation for life.

- Gwen Ellis, Moments for Myself, Daily Inspirational Calendar

Moments for Myself - 09 September 2008

The reflection on a day well spent furnishes us with joys more pleasing than ten thousand triumphs.

- Thomas A. Kempis, Moments for Myself, Daily Inspiration Calendar
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I didn't really have any triumphs today, but I know I spent the day well. I was coordinating and entering content for four different sites for four very different project leads, training the client for one of those sites, and doing lead activities for five of my own projects. So, busy and productive (which to me means "a day well spent") but no real "triumphs" to speak of. Interesting how true this statement is when you stop and think about it!

How did you spend YOUR day? Was it productive? Did you appear to make others happy or fulfill some need? If so, then be JOYFUL in your work! :-)

Treads & Threads 2008

Well, another gala event has come and gone. This time, I got a lot of pictures of just about everyone in the company who was there. Enjoy the pictures using the links below if you're not on Facebook.

Set 1- http://www.new.facebook.com/album.php?aid=50434&l=ff288&id=505720795

Set 2 - http://www.new.facebook.com/album.php?aid=50440&l=34253&id=505720795

Read this post

Rather than re-write or re-post everything to this blog that I just put on the other one, please just go read it over there. :-)

http://2008accountability.blogspot.com/2008/08/my-adventure-revealed.html

Photos Update

For those of you who want to see random photos of our lives and don't have Facebook, please use the links below to view some of my albums. This would be the closest I can come to scrapbooking these days! Enjoy!

Melissa & David’s Wedding – June 2008

Playing at the park in Ohio – June 2008

Girlfriends Visit in Ohio – June 2008

Texas Trip – July 2008

Karate Photos – White, Yellow & Green belt levels - 2008

Random Kid Pictures

Our Wedding Photos (1996 & 2001)

Moments for Myself - 20 August 2008

What we feel, think, and do this moment influences both our present and the future in ways we may never know. Begin. Start right where you are. Consider your possibilities and find inspiration...to add more meaning and zest to your life.

- Alexandra Stoddard, Moments for Myself, Daily Inspiration Calendar

Moments for Myself - 19 August 2008

The problem is not entirely in finding the room of one's own, the time alone, difficult and necessary as that is. The problem is more how to still the soul in the midst of its activities.

- Anne Morrow Lindbergh, Moment for Myself, Daily Inspiration Calendar

Organization Crazy

Apparently I've lost my mind or I've been invaded by body snatchers. Either way, I somehow found the fortitude to clean up my closet. I think it really came down so I could finally find clothes without getting wrapped up and tripping over shoes. Anyway, it was a weird bonding exercise with Emily, too, so it was fun while we were doing it.

I actually got the idea for my shoes from Clean House Organization Queen, Trish Suhr. Since I rarely keep shoe boxes, I couldn't suddenly go back to using those. So, I went to Big Lots and bought many many clear shoe boxes (32 to be exact, which Emily really didn't think I'd completely use - HA!). Then, came the fun part!

We set up a white towel to use as our photo shoot area and then we pulled out all my shoes. Each pair got placed in the same position on the towel and Emily got to take the pictures. We were trying to make it so each shoe showed the most visible space as well as the height of the heel (apparently, I have a lot of black shoes at varying heights!)

Then they each got a box. After all the pictures were taken, I printed them off wallet size and taped them to the correct box. (My husband didn't understand the pictures until he saw the finished product. He kept asking "Aren't the boxes clear? Can't you just look THROUGH the boxes?" He's cluelessly cute sometimes...)

I got rid of about 10 pairs of shoes that I didn't even remember having, that didn't fit or that I never wear and about 5 or 6 pairs didn't end up in boxes at all (boots that wouldn't bend or heels too high). In the end, 24 boxes ended up on the shelf and 8 on the floor (hiking boots and canoe shoes, etc.). My shelf now looks like this:

I think the photos on the ends are self-explanatory now! :)

Now, don't think it was only my shoes that got to have all the fun! My scarves all went on to one hangar (you can see them in that picture too), my shirts & blouses all got arranged by sleeve length and dressy-factor, pants got 5-to-1 hangars, and my winter clothes got space bags. (The boys liked watching my clothes get sucked into small packages - they thought that was pretty hysterical!)

All in all, it was a pretty good few hours on a Sunday and about $75 (tops) and it made a HUGE difference for my closet and my bedroom floor. And now I'm ready to tackle my desk this coming weekend.

May the body snatchers wait until September before they realize they're in the wrong body!

1st Day of 1st Grade

Well, the boys are off to a new school year - 1st graders!

We went to back to school night last week and met their teachers and found their classrooms just fine. They're excited and ready to go. They are in different classes this year, which should make for some interesting conversations and probably a few breakdowns. They still get to see each other for recess and lunch and of course all their sports activities are together (still, thankfully!) so it's not like they're totally cut off from each other. But, they can't be compared as easily by their teacher now and hopefully that will make a difference for Travis.

So, all is back to normal in the world. Guess I need to get to work! Enjoy their first 1st grader photo...

Moments for Myself - 09 August 2008

The human heart has hidden treaure
In secret kept, in silence sealed;
The thoughts, the hopes, the dreams, the pleasure,
Whose charms were broken if revealed.

- Charlotte Bronte, Moments for Myself, Daily Inspiration Calendar

Moments for Myself - 05 May 2008

I need this one today. It's my 5th anniversary with my company - whoo hoo! Been here a long time in terms of work relationships and I just need a way to refresh my mind and spirit regarding my job. Can you say - "burned out" - I know you can...

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Slip into a sudsy warm bath. Linger over a cup of coffee with a good friend. Take a walk on a rainy afternoon, splashing through puddles along the way. Whatever you need, take time to refresh your soul.

- Moments for Myself, Daily Inspiration Calendar

Moments for Myself - 23 April

I think what we're longing for is not "the good life" as it's been advertised to us in the American dream, but life in its fullness, its richness, its abundance. Living more reflectively helps us enter into the fullness.

- Ken Gire, Moment for Myself, Daily Inspiration Calendar

Moments for Myself - 22 April

For my friend, you know who you are, this thought and all my prayers are with you today...
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What shall I bestow upon a friend?
Fleeting moments of silent blessings; trust in tomorrow, which is life's hardest task, faith that each new dawn brings daylight's golden pathway to the ever-open door; and a belief that God will be with them through all others go their way.

- Lea Palmer, Moments for Myself, Daily Inspiration Calendar

Mom versus Dad

At 9pm tonight, Joe said he was going to bed. And he did.
At 10pm tonight, I decided I was going to bed. And I did:

• A final email check for details on tomorrow's field trip.
• Then, filled out the photo order form and wrote checks for spring school pictures
• On way past laundry room, I moved dry clothes to hangars and baskets, moved wet clothes to dryer and dirty clothes to washer.
• Since Joe did put together the new 3 basket sorter the day before, I also moved the remaining dirty clothes from the old, broken sorter to the new one.
• Then, I dismantled the broken sorter and bagged it in one of it's own bags.
• Since the cat's closet is by the laundry room, I fed him.
• Then I chased him into his closet to eat (and hopefully leave me alone, stalker that he is!)
• On way back through office, I found the RSVP card for a birthday party this weekend and put it in my work bag to call in the next day
• Picked up a few random toys and trash pieces and put away appropriately.
• Returned HEAVY piano bench back under the piano where it belongs (Joe had pulled it out for some reason but hadn't returned it from the middle of the room...)
• Turned out all the lights in the front rooms
• Checked and fed all the fish in three rooms
• Went to the restroom and fixed a broken nail (from the piano bench moving!)
• Covered up the boys and put some of their clothes in the hamper. Turned on their alarm clocks.
• Checked that Joe was still alive (yep - still snoring...)
• Wrote this goofy list for the blog

At 10:51 I will now play 9 minutes on electronic Sudoku game while catching the last of either a CSI or Without a Trace rerun.

Hopefully, I'll actually be going to SLEEP at 11pm.

Gotta love being the momma! :-)

Busy Season

I have officially entered one of my two "busy" seasons. Spring and fall are the two time of year when I work late, work at home, work like crazy, and have small mental breakdowns trying to keep up with the job and the family. Wow-zee!

Although many of the sites I do for work are for events in the FALL, the sites actually go live between March and July so attendees can register in a timely manner. Which means the "project lead" hat I wear is in full gear right now.

But, since I'm also implementation for most (90%) of the new sites that come through our company, I have to implement (content entry,train, etc.) my own sites (which requires a lot of research, graphics work and data entry) but also anyone else's sites that are going live (I think there are 3 others I'm for sure working on this week, but I've lost all count and caring for tonight).

That's not counting the two or three trainings I'm doing each week AND the (sometimes) associated User Guide. I've got a big guide I have to have finished this week (it's a week overdue in my mind) plus two that have been on hold for sometime pending a break in my schedule.

I need a support team! Just one full-time or 2 part-time/interns would help. But, alas, I'm not really all that billable, so neither would my team be. That makes us low-department on the totem pole for expansion purposes (ok bossman, my whining is out in the open now. sorry!)

The point of all this "whining" and details? Tonight I got home at 7:35pm. Just in time for Joe to leave and take Blondie home. In the 60 minutes I had with the boys this is what we did:

• Boys & I all put on jammies. So much more comfortable than my skirt and heels. for me, this was a 2-minute event - for them it was closer to 20.
• I read through the boys "Monday" folders to figure out was stayed at home and what has to go back. There were, I kid you not, 15 documents in EACH folder. that's 30 pieces of paper coming home. Kindergartners killing trees... (they were still changing clothes)
• Joe kept a Boston Market chicken pot pie & corn muffin warm for me, so I ate while helping...
• The boys finish up their homework - yep, kindergartners with HOMEwork. *sigh* They did most of it during after-care, we just had to clean up some backwards letters and do some coloring (when was the last time you had homework that was just to color pictures and you thought it was TOO MUCH? LOL)
• Did "sight word" reading (words they should know "on sight" like me, I, you, his, out, up, cat, etc.)
  • Thomas gets cocky and tries to speed read to prove he can - then messes half of them up. When he slows down to normal speed, he does just fine.
  • Travis looks for reassurance after each one and we have to really encourage him all the way through. If we play it right, he doesn't miss any!
• Watched the "Scary Monsters and Pop Star Divas" movie the kids made during Spring Break camp. It was really bad, but somehow funnier for that. I think if I had had a drink (or two) first it would have been right up there with any Tarantino movie ever filmed - very avante garde. All the boys were of course scary monsters. (I'll try to post it here soon. which could mean August. It'll be interesting whenever it appears!)
• Cuddled while watching the beginning of the Memphis game. Oh yeah. I guess KU is also playing, but let's not go there. Really. Let's NOT! (and yes, Ramsey, I do mean YOU! Hush!) [game close right now: 39-38 KU, 2nd half]
• Played with Tom using Em's giant snake while Travis jumped in and out of bed. He smacked me once on the booty and it took a lot of willpower not to smack him back. That HURTS right now!!
• Gave "Snoopy" kisses to both boys (they love to get me with those and HATE when I sneak one on them. I figure turn about it fair play).
• Got yelled at by Joe for "firing them up instead of calming them down." I'm much better at the firing up, especially when I only got 60 minutes with them! Sheesh! I think HE just wanted to get to sleep! ;-)

So, it wasn't a BAD hour and we got some good mother/sons time in there. I just hate missing evenings with them. It's when I'm usually at my best with them and to miss it just bites. But, the Jazzoo site is live and only a few minor tweaks are needed on my end. Here's the plan for the rest of my work week:

• Tomorrow I can finish the Hallmark guide if I really buckle down and then I can start helping put the content on Amanda's site - and leave right at 5pm for Karate!
• Wednesday will be a major focus on Amanda's site (assuming the guide got done!) with a little devotion to Treads & Threads as well.
• Thursday is a training that kills half my day and the other half is making sure I have all my requests and invoices in.
• My half-day Friday (which usually extends to around 2:30 this time time of year instead of noon) is internal meetings.
• Then it's the weekend - and I WILL leave EVERYTHING at the office! I SWEAR!

Gonna go spend about 30 minutes with Stephen King and "Duma Key" right now (ALMOST done with it and I can't wait to read the ending!) Have a good night!

Moments for Myself - 02 April

Why oh WHY didn't I get this one in March??

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Escape. Get away. Time out. Need something like that? Then take it. What are you waiting for? Someone to give it to you? That would be nice, but it rarely happens. An escape is something that you usually have to plan for yourself. So plan it. Seize it. It is not a waste of time if it restores your peace of mind. It is necessary.

- Moments for Myself, Daily Inspiration Calendar

Karate ROCKS

The boys had their second karate tourney this weekend and I LOVED it! I missed the first one for my mom's wedding and I really felt guilty. I wasn't sure how I'd sit through this one - literally, SIT through it, but it wasn't so bad. As a side note, bleachers are really good for a broken tailbone, because your read end typically hangs off the back anyway! (However, the 40 minutes drive from Shawnee to Liberty almost did me in, even with the cushion!)

We got there about halfway into the registration process and there was a REALLY long line. Hmmm... turns out, kids come from ALL OVER to be at these things. There were some from Des Moines, Omaha and St. Louis! Cool! The line went really fast and we even had time to pickup the "participation" trophies and buy the boys t-shirts and patches before the intro stuff started. Joe kept saying how this was already better organized and laid out than the last one.

They did a few black belt demonstrations and then had all the kids come down to line up with the groups/sensei - there were about 8-10 kids from the boys' class (Joe said there were only like 4 last time and it was closer to home!).

After that, the kids came back up to their parents (talk about a melee!) and the wait began. They broke it into "events" and then into age groups. Each age group was then divided into belt class - whites and yellows only (2 lowest levels, so mostly younger kids like the boys). So, it went something like this:

1. Strongest Kick (kick a meter bag with an approved kick and the hardest kick wins) - 4s & 5s, 6s & 7s, 8s & 9s, 10s & 11s, 12 & up (there were only like 3 older than 11, so they were getting all sorts of trophies each time!) [essentially 5 groups per event]
2. Strongest Fist (hardest punch wins)
3. Fastest Kick (fastest kick wins)
4. Fastest Fist (fastest punch wins)
5. Escape Drills - run through a series of 4 "stranger-danger grabs" breaking away in the correct way as fast as possible. Most correct and fastest wins (very subjective however!)
6. "Walk with Danger" (explained below)

Both boys did Fastest Fist and the Escape Drill. Travis also did Walk with Danger (Thomas decided just before the event that he wanted to do it too, but it was too late to put him in).

In fastest fist, the boys wanted to use a backfist - which is a quick punch but doesn't carry a lot of 'uumph' with the boys weight behind it. the bag was having trouble registering their punches. But, Travis came in 4th (he was 2nd until the last two kids!) and Thomas took 6th. Not bad!

In escape drill, there was some controversy. We kept our mouths shut around the boys and at the event, but Joe was ticked! See, there are 4 senseis that each do a different hold on the kids as they run through the line and the kids have to perform the correct "escape". These are generally taught as "stranger danger" techniques - the 4 most common grabs used by kidnappers.

The first one is a single hand, same side grab - like a mirror image. So, the sensei grabs the child by the left hand with their right hand (or vice versa). The child then makes a fist with the grabbed hand, places the other hand around that one, steps back and spins away toward the sensei's thumb side. (It really works BTW - try it!). Apparently, this is where not only our boys had trouble but all the boys in their line. The first guy wouldn't let go of any of the boys and made them really fight to get out - but the girls got an easy out on it. 2 of the 3 top winners were girls at the 6 yr, yellow level. :( Thomas was somewhere in the middle of the line and Travis was 2nd from the end. It was really heart-wrenching to watch that happen, as they had practiced SO hard for this particular event and were so psyched about it - and so READY for it!

[For those who want to know, here's the rest of that event:

1. Single hand grab (described above)
2. Double hand grab - both hands grabbed from the outside by the sensei's both hands. Child lefts up both hands to the outside (like lifting hands to put on a hat) then brings them down in 'chop' over sensei's wrists.
3. Front choke - sensei places both hands on child's shoulders to simulate choking from the front. Child takes hands "up like a rocket" (sort of like praying hands, through the open gap) and "out like fireworks" (pushing hands off shoulders)
4. Back choke - sensei places both hands on child's shoulders to simulate choking from behind. Child clasps hands together in front of face or higher (depending on height of assailant), steps back on one foot and spins in the direction of the back foot. Clasped hands should hit the adult around the watchband area, HARD.

As a parent helper, I've had my fair share of watching these kids and walking them through the moves. Some of them could do some serious damage even when they're being nice to the helpers - I pity the person who would try to take them!

back to the tourney...]

The last event of the day for white/yellow belts was the "Walk with Danger". This is sort of a "fun" event that's almost a precursor to doing a Kata if done correctly. Basically, the kid gets up and pretends his fighting off an imaginary attacker doing whatever blocks, punches and kicks he can remember and do correctly in 20 seconds.

We signed Travis up for this one since he LOVES to pretend he's a Power Ranger with all the crazy martial arts moves and we figured he could come away with something to even him up with Thomas in the "big trophy" department (Tom got second in the escape drill back in November). Travis has been feeling really secondary to Thomas in a lot of areas lately (really seen in his report card this quarter!) and we wanted something to really boost his ego a some.

He was about halfway through the performance list on this one - and they had mixed 6- & 7-yr-olds as well as both belt colors on this one. *sigh*. We were worried. Especially since he'd just had such a hard time with the Escape Drills and he tends to let "failures" bring him down (instead of making him fight harder). But, he really impressed us - and the judges!

He got up there and first was the only one to "rei" (bow) and then to set into fighting stance - with a loud "Kiya"! Then, he did all the things we worked with him on - X-hand block, low blocks, front knee kick, and when he forgot what to do next he did a series of middle punches. He was the only one to do "Kiya"s (yells) with each and every move. When he was done, I was so proud. Then it got better!

They immediately put him at the front of the line - he was in 1st! Two kids after him had no idea what they were supposed to do and basically froze up. Two others did OK. He was holding up there at the front. I was trying not to get too excited, as he could see me down there where I sat to take pictures and I didn't want to get his hopes up too high just in case. Apparently, after each kid was seated in order, Thomas was up in the bleachers with Joe yelling stuff like "He's still in first! Go Travis! I'm so PROUD of him!" (how cool is THAT for a twin brother??) Wish I could have been yelling too! ;)

The last kid scared us. At first he looked like he might bolt. Then he went after it hard. He was yelling like Travis had, but the moves were more Power Ranger than Karate. Very enthusiastic. There was some debate at the judges table and they went back and forth a couple times with putting him in front of then behind Travis. HUH? Eventually, he was placed behind my boy...

...until they went through for trophies. The other kid went through first, meaning he got the 1st place. HUH?

Then Travis came through with a big old grin (got a picture of THAT for sure!) and a 1st place trophy as well. Apparently, the judges had decided to tie them. OK. Fine. But, the important thing here is that...

TRAVIS GOT A BIG TROPHY! Whoo hoo!

Even better, he got a huge boost in his self-esteem that we're still living off and neither of them can wait to learn more karate. YEA! We really want them to do this for several years, for the flexibilty of the sport, for the self-defense aspect but most importantly for the self-respect & discipline they're learning from it as well.

Plus, mommy is learning a lot too! ;)

[Pictures and videos to be posted when I have more time!]

Virtuous Months

For those who don't know me well, I lead the children's worship for my church 3 or 4 weeks a month (plus a bunch of other stuff for KidStuf). It's a little scary sometimes how apropos this can be for my life - specifically the virtues we focus on.

March was 'COURAGE' and boy did I need that to survive this month. No, there was nothing overly nasty in my days, other than a broken booty. In fact, I'd have to say my month ended on a relatively high note as compared to my friend Amanda (sorry sweetie - I honestly think we switched luck at the end of the month but I would have gladly sent all the good and happy luck to you for your special day if I'd known what would happen). Breaking my booty was definitely the lowest point but it's not anything I couldn't get over!

For April the virtue is 'JOY' and I am SO ready for this month! We have great songs picked out (I can say this, cuz I set up the schedule and set list!) - very high energy and all about the joy that can be found in any situation and in Christ. Plus, I just love the sound of the word 'JOY' - it's a great word and gives an instant happy jolt when you say it. Really. Say it out loud right now. A few times. See - you smiled didn't you? (seriously - did you say it? wow - you're funny!)

Going back to Amanda, I think she already understands this 'finding joy in any situation' better than most people. Less than 24-hours after posting about her crazy wedding (and less than 48 hours from the actual EVENT), she posted this follow-up - full of the joy of her marriage and being with the right man. She is thoroughly amazing to me and I know that I will take a lot to heart from both posts to see how God can give you a crazy moment (OK - a really BAD moment) at one point but you can find joy and happiness in it if you just look. Many brides would be fuming for YEARS over one little thing gone wrong and she's already sensing that she'll be laughing about it eventually (not quite yet, but she'll get there!).

Seeing the silver lining in things - that's been really hard for me to do lately, but I know it can been done. All things happen for a reason - it's not just a platitude or cliche - it's TRUE! God has a reason!

It's funny, I can usually tell other people to look on the bright side of things and tell them all the amazing things about THEM - but I refuse to do this for myself. Maybe for April one of my goals should be to say one positive thing about myself each day (and not just the "I'm good enough, I'm smart enough, and gosh darn it, people like me!" diatribe either). I'll keep you posted. :)

It's Official - March Broke Me

Well, I thought I was doing good there for a few days. After the ice cream/raffle thing, I had a good 48 hours. Positive meetings with a client, relaxing a little with my hubby, having fun with my kids. I must have let it all go to my head.

On Friday, I decided to join my boys at their field trip to Skate City. Now, growing up I was always a really good skater and I figured this would be good. Growing up in a small town, it was truly one of the few things to do every weekend - we didn't even have a movie theatre near us! So, I figured I could go and skate with my boys and help out on the floor. No fear here.

After about 70 minutes on the floor, I was finally getting my groove back. It was hard with all those kids out there who could NOT skate to save their lives and a floor that looked more like an ice rink (all white) than a roller rink to me (I'm used to a wooden plank floor). I can do this really cool skating move where I sort of bounce on my rear wheels and roll onto my front wheels. Only this time, my really cool move wasn't so cool.

First my right rear wheels slip and I lose a little balance. Then my front left wheels slip and I feel both legs go out - right in front of me. And not slipping nicely in front where I have time to fall correctly. I fall straight down, legs in front of me. Down down down, flat on my butt. If someone had had a camera on me, I could've won the ultimate prize on America's Funniest Videos, I'm sure!

Now, I try to move and couldn't. Freaked out. Finally got myself under control with the help of some other adults and a couple of really helpful floor guards (and a few not so helpful ones!). Got my skates off and got off the floor. Eventually got back over to the group area. Had the group leader round up my kids (who were -thankfully - not on the floor but were playing video games at the time). And called my husband to come pick us up.

After he picked us up, I told him he might as well just go straight to the ER. I already knew I couldn't get into my real doctor and the urgent care wouldn't have X-Ray. I was NOT getting in and out of the car more than once! Just getting into his car (instead of my van? I'm still not sure why I had to get DOWN into a car instead of UP into the van?!?!) made me cry for 10 minutes.

After a 2 hour wait at OPRMC, I finally got taken back and checked out. They think it's one of two things - broken in one of two ways or just bruised. It doesn't feel like a bruise and it hurts whenever I move a certain way. So, I get taken to X-Ray. Yep. I'm broken. Thankfully it wasn't a lumbar fracture as they feared due to the pain radiating up my back. Unfortunately, it's my coccyx (tailbone). Yep, I broke my butt. *sigh*

According to the ER doc, it can take up to 6 weeks to heal this kind of fracture. It's not like they can truly put my butt in a sling - that really is just an expression! There's nothing they or I can do for it except rest and Percocet. Ah - drugs. Very nice if they didn't make me so sick. And being sick and not being able to bend over or sit down is actually worse than the pain without the pills. *sigh again*

I'll see my regular doctor early this week and find out how long I have to go without driving. Meanwhile, I'll be lying at my side at home trying to work on the laptop - it makes typing REALLY slow and painful. *triple sigh*

So, there you have it. March was not going well for me and it finally broke me. If it weren't for my birthday this month, I would probably detest it in the future. But, it will probably just become a long-term joke. Yes, that's me, the *butt* of the joke (and yes, I fully expect any and all booty jokes to come my way).

At least now maybe people will realize I'm not such a harda$$. =)

Reversal of Fortune?

Just a quick post about a reversal today...

Our corporate complex had an "ice cream social" in our building and a few from my office went up to get some. Yes I went along, thinking "diet is messed up this month anyway!". Only it turns out it's not ice scream. It's Sheridan's. As in Sheridan's.Frozen.Custard. Melt in your mouth and go straight to your hips delish. Oh well.

But, they also had this raffle up there. For Starbucks gift cards and other stuff. AND.I.WON!

Yep - got myself 2 AMC movie passes / free admissions. WHOO HOO!!

So - maybe a reversal of fortune? Maybe I stole some of Amanda's luck, since we got her ice cream but she didn't go with us? Maybe God just looked down and said "Here's something nice, child, cuz you need a little pick-me-up."

Whatever it was, YEA ME! And THANK YOU Corporate Woods! :)

Lost in Translation

At dinner the other night, we had another interesting family conversation. It went like this:

Me & Joe were making various comments picking on Em's "new boyfriend" (who's neither her boyfriend or new, but that's besides the point). We're all eating dessert at the time, which might have added to the confusion/weirdness.

Em: Passes me her phone, with pic of him. [Then it got weird...]

Me: You know, he's really not all that cute. [actually, he is kind of, for a 7th grade kid; I was just teasing to see what she would do/say]

Em: Yeah, he's not really.

Me: (thoroughly perplexed) Um. Really? Then why are you with him. Is he rich?

Em: well, yeah.

Joe: You are your mother's daughter. [under his breathe, mostly; remember, Em is my STEP-daughter...]

Me: No really, why are you with him?

Em: He's nice to me?

Me: (flabbergasted at the utter lack of shallowness in my teenager. Not from my bloodline, apparently...) *silence*

Travis: Let me see him. (gets phone) Yeah. he's not cute.

Me: But, that's OK that he's not, if he's nice to her. Although, if it's the person you love, you should think they're good looking even if no one else does.

Em: What-ever.

Travis: But you're still pretty mom. [I LOVE when he just throws that out there!]

Me: Aw - thanks kiddo! Is there anyone prettier than your mommy? [OK - fishing for a bigger ego boost - I asked for the rest of this conversation just from asking that!]

Travis: Just one. Jesus' mom. [This is the one person we've agreed is OK to be prettier than me in his eyes.]

Me: You know, there can be one other person prettier than me.

Travis: Really? I don't think so. Who?

Me: Well you can think your wife is prettier me.

Travis: Who's my wife?

Me: I don't know yet, but when you get married, she should be prettier to you than I am.

Travis: I'm not married.

Me: No, you're not. But when you DO get married, you should think she's prettier than me. [beginning to realize this is a futile conversation.]

Travis: Then, you're my wife?

Me: No, I'm your mommy. I'm daddy's wife.

Travis: Oh....so....Daddy's prettier than you?

Me: HUH?

Joe: That's right, I'm prettier than you.

Lots of laughter from everyone. *sigh*

Lesson of the day: Never try to discuss future brides with a 6 year old.

Feeling Funky

After karate tonight, Joe asked Tom why he did some strange, out of character thing (I'm not 100% sure what that was). Tom's response was classic Tom:

"I was funky in my head. I don't know WHAT I was thinking."

I love it!

What Would You Do?

ABC News is doing a limited series called "What Would You Do?" - a hidden camera type of show where they put people in questionable social situations to see how they will act. Literally, what will they do when put into a situation when there's "no one watching".

I'm thoroughly amazed by what I'm witnessing on this show. And what amazes me the most isn't the fact that people do the right thing sometimes - I have great faith in human beings - but in the justifications the people use when they DON'T do the right thing!

You can watch some of the snippets here: abcnews.go.com/Primetime/WhatWouldYouDo. I highly suggest you watch some! I won't go into too much detail as to the actual responses they have recorded, in case you haven't seen these yet and want to watch them. What I will do is pose some of the situations to you - to get you thinking. And, hopefully, talking. But, most importantly, DOING THE RIGHT THING!

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1) What would you do if you witnessed a different type of "terrorist" attack? Specifically, a form of "Islamophobia" where a woman is denied service in a restaurant based on the fact that she is a practicing Muslim (knowledge based solely on her clothes).
I have to admit that I would like to do the right thing and stand up for her. But, I don't know that I would. I'm sort of a coward in real life. I know I wouldn't stand up for the shopkeeper, I'd leave without buying anything and I would never step foot in the store ever again. I just don't know if I could personally stand up for her verbally out of fear for myself. I could probalby wrangle a little passive aggressive maneuver - maybe a call to the health department to report a "rat behind the counter "- then offer to buy her lunch at another "BETTER" place. :)

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2) What would you do if you witnessed your friend's significant other cheating? Would it matter if they were just dating? Engaged? MARRIED?
Seriously, having been on the flip side of this I would do the right thing. And I have! I've also done the wrong thing in the past. We'll leave it at that (some of you know the whole story here but I'd rather not share it with the world if you don't mind).

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3) Would you step in between a couple fighting in public if it got physical? What if it was the woman hitting the man? Would it matter if they were of mixed races - a black man with a white woman? What about a white man with a black woman? Would you wait until it got physical to step in or would you step in if it was just verbal abuse?
I would definitely step in on this; the extenet would depend on my own personal safety. If I honestly thought I would be hurt in the situation and therefore no good to the victim, I wouldn't step in personally, but would call the cops or look for a large man in the vicinity to assist me - perferably one larger than the attacker. There is safety in numbers after all! But I couldn't just walk on by - again having been on the other side!

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4) Would you speak up to a bad driver? One who damaged someone else's car and walked off? What if it was someone who "stole" a handicapped parking space?
I think would definitely speak up if there was visible damage done and there was no doubt of fault. Assuming it's not a really big scary guy - then I would just quietly do something about it (very passive aggressive approach, but not necessarily any less effective). I have spoken up to people taking handicapped spaces. Now that my mom actually HAS her tag for this, I'm even more in tune to this infraction. When I'm out with her, I'd love to carry around really large stickers that say "RUDENESS ISN'T A HANDICAP - FIND A REAL PARKING SPACE NEXT TIME" and then put them directly over the driver's side windshield - massively sticky stickers that you can't pull off easily - especially when it's cold outside. I know - passive evil is still evil but it still sounds fair to me sometimes! :)

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5) Could you be the "good Samaritan"? Based on the parable Jesus told of the Good Samaritan helping the beaten man on the side of the road. If you saw a man in the park or somewhere you're walking, and he's crying, definitely upset, with torn clothes and no shoes - WOULD YOU HELP HIM? Would it matter if he was white or if he was African-American? Would it matter if he was older (think grandfatherly) or younger (college-aged)? What if it was a woman - any woman?
The answer for me all the way around is YES. YES. and YES. If someone is obviously in trouble or need, I will step in! If I can't do it myself (again, that personal hurt thing) I will ask someone else to help me, like a bigger guy or a cop. But I won't leave a troubled person to themselves if there's anything at all I can do.

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6) Would you help a young boy getting beat up in the park by other young boys his age? What if it was girls? What if the abuse was only verbal?
This would be a harder call for me. Kids aren't as easily reasoned with as many adults. And they can be more volatile, especially in a "pack". Kids scare me more than adults - how weird is that? Especially a pack of girls. Maybe it's having been the "victim" of verbal attacks myself, I hate to get into altercations of that kind. But, I don't think I could just pass by altogether - if I couldn't say something myself, I'd find someone stronger than me [that's mentally/emotionally stronger in this case] to help out.

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7) Could you handle someone flirting with your significant other in public? Like a waiter/waitress?
Wow. No, I couldn't handle this too well - I get jealous REALLY easy. But, it would depend on how Joe would handle it to determine what I would actually do. If he was laughing it off and making it obvious he was with me, I would laugh with him at the patheticness of the gal. If he's being laid back/quiet about it, and laughing more at ME being jealous, I'd squash it - and fast! But, calmly. I'd suggest the woman find another guy to hit on, as my HUSBAND is definitely taken.

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8) Would you call out your boss for taking credit for your work or idea? What if you found out he did it by using some underhanded means of your own (like reading his email or swiping his Blackberry)?
I wouldn't necessarily call him out on it, but I wouldn't give my ideas directly to him anymore - or at least not solely to him. I'd copy others on the same level or co-workers on my level at least. Of course, Neal would never ever do this, right, so nothing to ever fear. ;)

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That's it for now. I'd love to know your thoughts. Feel free to post in the comments or add these 8 questions to your own blog with your ideas/reasoning. Sort of like a "getting to know your friends" email, but with more social significance and psychological insight than "what are your favorite pajamas?" (not that I don't love those emails - and knowing you like boxer shorts and a t-shirt over a full set of pajamas or a nightgown could be useful at some point - like for a Christmas present!).

Hard to Fight the Light

Even the Bible verses I post on my blog are out to pull me from the funk-i-tude I'm in. Today's verse (in case you don't actually GO to my blog and see these great verses!):

"Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life--in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing. But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. So you too should be glad and rejoice with me." Philippians 2:14-18 NIV

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Lord - thanks for the reminder than I need to strive to be a pure child of yours - and therefore must be thankful for all things, even when they aren't the dreams and hopes I asked You for. Your ways are not my ways, but your plans for me are to help me prosper and make me thrive. Thank you for remembering me and for caring in all things.

Why Buy Expensive Toys?

My friend Teri sent this to me and I just HAD to post it [I honestly don't know why SHE didn't! :) ] It takes me back to the days when the boys were little and played for HOURS in the big boxes some of their Christmas toys came in from Ohio. It was litke a fort for them and they LOVED crawling in and around them. Enjoy this little baby - and have a Ripping Good day!!

Man Day

Sunday morning, we had a really great family discussion around 8am (which was really 9am - forgot to reset the clocks and I was late for KidStuf rehearsal - oops!).

I was doing my hair and makeup and the boys were cuddling with Joe on the big bed. Our talk went something like this:

Tom: "I know...you're going to church. Right mommy?"

Me: "Yep - always!"

Tom: "Does that mean we need to go?"

Me: "Only if Daddy brings you, cuz I have to sing..." (looking askance at Joe hoping he'd take the bait)

Joe: "Fat chance."

Me: "So, no then." and I went into the hall to have a little pout where the boys couldn't see me.

Tom (still in with Joe): "YES!"

Me: silent, pouting at Tom as I come back in.

Tom, exuberantly: "It's MAN DAY"

All 3 boys/men: "YES YES YES. It's MAN day! We are MEN and it's OUR day!"

Me: "But...it's MY birthday..." *pouting again*

-short silence -

Tom: "Oh. Well, maybe we'll do something when you come back. But, today is MAN day first!"

Me: *sigh*

Ditto Heidi, Ditto

I read a post from another blogger recently that pretty well sums me up this past 2 weeks (you can read Heidi's sentiments for yourself if you so desire: www.heidichronicles.com/2008/03/05/drifting)

Basically, I feel at odds with my entire life - job, spouse, and definitely kids. Just a general disconnect from who I thought I'd be at this point in my life and where I can see myself going from where I really am.I thought if I put off aknowledging it it would go away, but after reading Heidi's blog I realized maybe it would be better to just get it out here and get it out of my head.

I know part of this is just my monthly down spiral and that next week I'll probably be up again. Part of it is my upcoming birthday and I always have a feeling this time of year that no one really gives a crap to celebrate me or my birth 34 years ago (that's a whole different "pity party" post...). Or maybe it's just the weather and tired of being cooped up in the house with my kids all the time (while we good go outside in the semi-freezing temps, I really don't want to deal with sick kids).

Right now, I just don't care what is the cause behind it as I'm not really caring about anything.

What I'd really like right now is a week vacation - BY.MY.SELF. All alone, me, and a hotel room and a beach somewhere warm. A couple of books for each day, a jacuzzi tub, a weight room, NO PHONE and possibly no computer. A place where I can feel free to go out dancing for a night and then sleep the next day. Where I can do some writing and reading without feeling like I'm neglecting anyone or anything. A place where there's no laundry or dishes, no kids to get ready in the morning or meals to make 3 times a day. Where I can just me - Terese - not mom, wife, co-worker, support guru, worship leader, or any other title that's been put on me. But, for the next 12 years minimum I know I'm not going anywhere alone for more than one night and usually that's not even alone - it's either me and the kids or me and Joe...or all of them! Maybe it's all the testosterone in my house that's getting to me??

So, don't expect a lot of updates or positive feedback on anything tonight or this weekend or maybe for the next few weeks. If you work with me, I'm sorry if I bite your head off. If you're related to me, well, you're probably used to this personality. Tired of it, but still nothing new. Don't take any of it personally - it really has nothing to do with you.

Anyway, just wanted to put that out there. Enjoy YOUR night...

Moments for Myself - 06 March

I can do it...
I will persevere...
I will not blow my top...
I am important...

Do you have a motto that you repeat to yourself? A word or expression that you find yourself repeating over and over? Does it make you fee better about yourself? If so, keep it up! If not, find one that does.

- Moments for Myself, Daily Inspiration Calendar

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What's your motto, your credo, your expression? Please share...

A serious DUH moment!

I was sitting here writing calmly in my blog about nothing and wondering what I could do to add more to it. I mean, after a year of writing (year, really 1 year this month - WOW!) I should have something NEW to add in here. And, I had the quintessential DUH moment (picture me in Homer drag smacking my forehead...).

Please note a few things and I'm sure you'll see where I'm heading here...

• My user moniker is "christian mom"
• The name of this blog is "Reason and Light" with light referring to God.
• I have biblical quotes assaulting you as soon as you hit the site.
• I try to post uplifting, positive posts and requests for comments/help when I am out of my own happiness.
• Swearing is definitely not allowed in here, with the worst thing I've really said being "butt".
• Moments for Myself quotes that are usually about God or the peace of spirituality.

And, with all this in mind, you will not see a single REAL Prayer Request in this blog. WHAT?? Seriously? I do have some posts for "power of prayer" but no real, outright requests. For me, for family, for close friends, for world leaders - for anything or anyone. Really? goofy girl...

So, for my initial prayer request, I'm going to point you to my young friend Katlyn....

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Katlyn has been ill for sometime (several YEARS in fact) and will be going to the Mayo Clinic this Saturday with her mom, Tina. [Background: Tina and I worked together just before the boys were born. She and her family, especially her daughters, brought me back to God and to Cedar Ridge Christian Church, so this whole family is very important to me and my family!]

Please pray for Katlyn and Tina as they travel to Minnesota for an undetermined period of time to hopefully get answers and healing. May God bless their time together as mother and daughter as well. Also, please pray for Bil and their other children as they remain in KC and await answers from here (which might be even harder). Please pray for the doctors and nurses as well as the testing technicians - anyone who will come into contact with this amazing young woman and have a hand in her diagnosis - and pray that y at least find a REASON for her illness, if not an outright cure.

You can check out more of Katlyn's story at her Caring Bridge site. You might sign her guest log and let her know you are praying as well - even if you don't know her!

Where they come from...

So, after I posted my inspiration thoughts, I had to look up where I might have gotten some of you faithful readers. Although the referral sites were fairly common (Google, Yahoo!, etc.) I found a few of the search terms amusing. And the locations of readers is just WILD in consideration of how far-reaching they are!

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TOP SEARCH TERMS

"handbags + hygiene" - probably looking for the same original I was for my post. Hopefully you found what you needed!

"i lost my leg" - which they probably got sent to the post on my mom (which made her cry BTW, but in a good way!). I hope you found inspiration and hope!

"olivia sharma" - if you're looking for info on my boss' kid, you're in the wrong place - go here www.celebratingolivia.com for more recent updates on the cutie-patootie (and she IS adorable!)

"the red ball" + "kimmy" - HUH? well, hopefully you got to the Red Ball site and were able to attend by going from my site on to that one!

"kidstuf songs" - I can't direct you any where specific for that one, but there will be lots of posts where I mention KidStuf! I lead worship for this children's church service at Cedar Ridge (www.cedarridge.cc) and I LOVE IT!

and my absolute favorite search terms...

"RICE KRISPIE TREATS" (and variations on that theme). OH My Goodness - I'm SO sorry if you were looking for good, HELPFUL information on those cuz I have nothing but DISDAIN for making those goofy things! :) But, they are SERIOUSLY yummy!

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WHERE YOU COME FROM

From my Clustermaps overlay, I see I have readers mostly from the KC area - duh! But, there are a good number in Ohio (thanks family & extended family) as well as all around the US. Weird, but it gets weirder in that there are some from South America, Europe (including who I'm guessing is Heidi in the UK) and even AUSTRALIA. Seriously? WOW!

My Google analytics says there's only those in the US, some in Canada and 1 each in France, Germany and South Korea (really - Korea?? WOW!). However, I did start my Google stuff long after my cluster maps, which might account for the varying locations?

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Regardless, wherever you are and however you got here - WELCOME! It might be a bit messy at times and I may not always be 100% happy and positive, but I am glad you're here! Come in, sit a spell, have a read and a good laugh. Then return to your day a mite happier - that's all I ask in return. Have a WONDERFUL day!