Married with Children

My Birthday

2012-01-17T21:46:00.002-06:00

Damn. I feel the love!!

I haven't had suck a stellar birthday in.....I can't even remember how long. Although my birthday wasn't until Sunday, we started celebrating on Friday the 13th. The ladies from work took me out to lunch, gave me a $50 Ulta gift card and the funniest pickle card I'd ever seen. We laughed for about two hours straight. I love those ladies.

Then I came home and figured Jason had something up his sleeve. He'd organized a few folks to come over to celebrate. You know how I like a stiff drink and some company. Chad, Christy, Cory, Scott and a new friend Julie, all came to hang out. We ate pizza, drank, played drinking games, laughed, and finally danced. From 6 pm to well after midnight. I'm not that young anymore. I got a pretty cool Harley headband from the Meyer's. And my honey.....he really came through. He bought me a pretty new wedding band. It's beautiful. :)

Saturday, well I was a bit...tired...from the festivities the previous night. So we took it easy. Jason and had a great date night at the Melting Pot. The food was fantastic and the company was even better. :)

Sunday, church time, shopping, light lunch and dinner with my parents. My mom always makes me a good spaghetti dinner and chocolate cake for my bday. I also got more presents from Sally (a bottle of Crown) and a $50 spot from my mom and dad. Great day.

Not to mention I received several cards in the mail from folks. IN THE MAIL. How sweet is that? I love snail mail.

I'm feeling very blessed and thankful for all the friends and family I have. Happy birthday to me.

Bike Week

2012-01-17T21:43:00.002-06:00

I'm excited. Thrilled. Beyond!

We are going to Bike Week in Panama City again this year. I'm THRILLED cause we are going with our good friends (Cory & Scott and Chad & Christy). I'm BEYOND cause I'll get to pull my fancy ass trailer down and roll on my stylin' ass bike.

Live to ride.....ride to live. That's me bitches!

Friends

2012-01-17T21:34:00.003-06:00

How many of us have them?

As I get older, the more selective I've become about friends. This has bothered me recently because one of my relationships is becoming less and less valuable to me.

I'll call her Kate. Kate seems to be about her self a lot. No other way to describe it.

I'll leave all the unimportant details out, but late last year I decided it was time to put a little distance between us. Not stop being friends, but just a bit of space. Honestly I'd had my feelings hurt several times by her. I pulled back and she's suddenly taken notice and has called me out on it? Really? That's not my grown ass 39 year old style.

My other friend gave me some pretty good advice......she told me this relationship with Kate required too much effort.

And she's right.

Nine years

2012-01-08T12:38:00.001-06:00

Jason and I will celebrate nine years of marriage on Saturday the 14th. He's the best thing that ever happened to me.

My job

2012-01-07T03:42:00.005-06:00

More frequently than not, I have a job that requires me to do shitty things to people. Usually, I can deal with it but, today was not one of those days because the shittiness involved someone I care about. I usually can justify it through the person's actions or by saying its business, but today, not so much.

My company is pretty hard core - and expectations are high. They don't accept status quo or cavalier behavior. You're giving 110%, no make that 150% all the time or you're not cutting it. And you'll be cut down at the knees if your slacking. I've seen people that have given 30 years of their life to the place escorted out the door. Engagement is a must. And by all means everyone knows that.

I wonder though, through all these conversations, counselings, suspensions and terminations, how people get there? Do they recognize they are there? Are they just tired? Do they not see it? Has something else become more important?

I also wonder, how I'll feel when it's my turn.

Crappy day

2012-01-04T21:24:00.002-06:00

Im just going to list the shiity things I had to deal with today:

My mom's been sick
Jason's mom is in the hospital
My lovely cousin has to have a second brain surgery Monday
OSHA surprised us at work today
It's freezing cold

Good thing that happened to me today:

My pot roast was off the chain

Chickens

2012-01-03T22:10:00.003-06:00

Jason and I had several fights this summer about chickens. He wanted them and I didn't. Standard Jason Burden hobby request but this one veto'd by the wife. Not just a NO but a HELL NO.

So imagine my surprise when I turned on the news this evening and the opening story was about a proposed bill to approve chickens in regular neighborhoods in metro. Really? I have learned to grasp my southern roots however, chickens in city yards? Opening story on the news? Am I the only one that sees a problem with this? I wouldn't want to look over the fence and see chickens in my neighbor's yard (cause you know they won't be in mine).

Here's my push for no chickens!

January 2

2012-01-02T22:58:00.002-06:00

We were off work today. Olivia had a playdate & Tyler slept so Abbe and I snuck off for a little time together. Target, manicure and habatchi for lunch. So yummy! Then, we had an appointment with American Home Design to price out a screened patio. Get this --- for a 18x20 screened porch its 50k. I almost died........looks like well stick to the bug spray lol. Jason and I had a spat about the whole experience but that's nothing new I guess.

So all in all a great day! Really dread going to work tomorrow. Getting out of the routine sucks.

Hope you have a happy Tuesday!

Out with the old.....

2012-01-01T09:07:00.002-06:00

2012. Can you believe it? Time goes by so fast. Yesterday, I spent a little time cleaning out my closet. Clothes, shoes, bags -- too much junk. Lately I've been feeling the same about some people in my personal life too. Junk. People that are out for themselves, those that bring drama to my life. In 2012 they have to go. It will be a bit painful but all for the better. Same with family. Very tired of a select group of folks that stir the pot all the time. I recently was challenged by some bullshit but was able to take the high road and not start WW3.

This is not a negative start to 2012 but rather a very positive one!! Bring it!

Catching up

2011-02-24T21:00:00.003-06:00

Since the last blog post sometime last year...

Bought a Harley
Traded Harley
Bought another Harley

Drove to Maine

My Birthday

Christmas

New Years

Jen's Birthday

Anniversary

Las Vegas Trip (without me)

Applied to college

Jen got a Iphone

Accepted to college

Want a Ipad

I think that about covers it.

Jen stepped up in technology and replaced her blackberry with a Iphone.. the Verizon network hasn't been the same since she got it a few weeks ago.

Exercise

2010-09-06T21:44:00.001-05:00

I need to exercise. And in a bad way.

But what to do? I hate exercising. Nothing is fun. I'm not a runner. I can walk but it's boring. I need a video, I think.

It's been a while

2010-09-04T11:17:00.003-05:00

I can't believe how long it's been since I've last blogged. This summer has just flown by.

As the kids get older, the activities seem to pile up. With three of them - it's nonstop.

Olivia has started pre-k. I'm so excited to have all the kids at one school this year! Not to mention the $500 a month I'm saving in daycare! :) She fit right in and the teacher told me yesterday, she's the best behaved in the class. She's often the line leader or project leader because, as the teacher put it, "She's a leader and the kids model her behavior." I'm so proud of her. I think it has a ton to do with her being the youngest of three, and she tries so hard to keep up and do the things the older kids do.

Yesteday, she had a pre-k physical and not only had to get four shots, but also a TB skin test and a finger prick. It was horrible for her and me.

Abbe Mae is doing well. She's been studying in school and focusing on spelling and reading. I got her progress report yesterday and she's doing okay, but needs improvement in certain things. Specifically, turning in her home work. She's at 5 out of 8. She's a mess.

Tyler is also a star student. He's in 5th grade. Quick story - yesterday I took the day off to take Olivia to the doctor so I had lunch with each of the kids (which meant three trips to the school but that's another post). While sitting in the cafeteria waiting for Tyler, there were other 5ht grade kids in there. One of the little boys we know from Boy Scouts, "R", was at the table next to me. He didn't realize I was there as he called for one of his buddy's down the way and proceeded to FLIP him off. I couldn't believe it. I told him I was telling his mom. And I will.

Jason bought a Harley Davidson. I'll post on that later.

Me, just working. This job and role is taking up way more time than I ever expected. Very late nights, meetings all the time, offsite all the time, it's a little more than I bargined for. I love my family and my job - just need the balance. It's hard!

Got to go know, taking the kids to get them a volleyball set for our party tonight.

JB

2010-09-02T22:59:00.002-05:00

120 million

2010-05-16T20:53:00.002-05:00

Jason has been big into buying lottery tickets lately. And he's so excited about winning. It's fun to sit around and talk about what we would do if we won. Today he decided if we won, he'd open up a small restaurant and he'd be a short order cook. I decided I'd travel the world full time.

Ahhhh, what would you do?

Taking It Easy

2010-05-16T20:45:00.002-05:00

We've been taking it easy lately. This weekend especially. We only had one thing to attend (the other was cancelled due to rain). That means we stayed at home and relaxed all weekend for the most part. The girls had a birthday party in our neighborhood Saturday so the only time we stepped out was to get the gift and get a few groceries Saturday morning. Then, we ended up hosting an impromptu dinner party on Saturday night. It was a great time, as always. Today, I've laid around all day and even took a nap! I like lazy weekends.

BACKSPLASH

2010-05-08T09:20:00.003-05:00

LOOKIN' GOOD!!

Honda Crosstour

2010-05-06T22:35:00.002-05:00

This is a celebration item. I NO LONGER HAVE TO DRIVE IN A MINIVAN! Don't get me wrong, there was a time in my life when I longed for a minivan. And when I was pregnant with Olivia, that dream came true. I drove that minivan for five long years.

That changed for me the other day!

I bought a 2010 Honda Crosstour. It's black, it has all the bells & whistles, and it has a sunroof!! It's adorable and I love it.

I certainly miss my kids being babies, but as they grow it's just as exciting!

Rain, rain, go away......

2010-05-02T22:30:00.003-05:00

I've never seen anything like this before. The rain has been so strong, steady and long lasting, that we are flooded. Water logged. Drowned. No other way to put it.

Let me start with yesterday. Rained all day. About two in the afternoon, lightening hit some where in my yard or very close to my house. Knocked out FIVE of our flat screen tvs, the wii, surround sound upstairs, build in stereo downstairs and pretty much all of our computer accessories (and you know how we roll in that department -- DEEP). So after we stopped crying and arguing, the call was made to the insurance adjuster and we were told we'd have to wait for a call back.

We went over to my parents house to ride out the rest of the storm cause without any media - we weren't up-to-date on the weather happenings and in TN, you need to know about possible tornadoes ASAP.

Anyhow, we watched as cars, houses and people were engulfed by raging water. It was and is unbelievable to me. Houses we drive by frequently, GONE. Family cars, GONE. Sweet Lord, the people. It's horribly sad. It's amazing how fast these things happen. We were watching LIVE television and these cars were on the highway slowly going around water. Within seconds, the people were jumping out of their cars trying to jump over the median to safety as their cars were washed away by the instant raging water. It was insane.

In the big picture, my stupid electronic picture doesn't matter. We have insurance and most of it will be covered. There are children out there tonight in my community that can't sleep in their bedrooms. And for that, I'm horribly humbled.

Life

2010-04-30T19:43:00.003-05:00

Not a whole lot. Kids are doing well in school. They are loving "silly bandz" bracelets. We've had fun collecting and trading them. Since the weather has been nicer, we've been outside a ton more. Except this week and last weekend, it's stormed!

I had some oral surgery today on my tooth. I'm all jacked up and pretty miserable. I look like Jason took a 2x4 to my face. I'm hoping I will be better by Monday cause I've got a BUSY week next week with work. By the way, I am liking my new role at work. It's more stress but I'm really hoping I can get my department (and newly added department) in order soon. With that, I'm hoping the stress goes away a bit. Now if I just had some time in the office I'd probably be better. Seems like I'm offsite at least two to three days a week.

Jason is doing well. He's a great husband and father as always. He still thinks he's going to buy a Jeep, as a second car. He's farther from reality than I thought if he thinks it'll happen.

I am excited cause next week I'm having a new back splash put in my kitchen. I can't wait! I had an interior designer come in an plan it all out to match my colors and my granite. I've been waiting for weeks for the tile and glass to get in so the 4th couldn't come soon enough! I'll post some pictures when it happens.

ONE........TWO......THREE!!

2010-04-21T20:54:00.003-05:00

I have never been a fan of the counting game with children. I've always thought they should listen the first time I tell them something.

Silly me.

Out of nowhere, the other day I heard Jason barking off "ONE!"........"TWO!".....to Olivia. She quickly responded with whatever task he was requesting her to do. I rolled my eyes and let it pass. Thinking, "Really, I hate the counting game. I wish he wouldn't do that. Does he know how goofy he sounds?"

Silly me.

Again, I've heard him do this to both girls when asking them to clean up their mess. I sat back and watched, sarcastically. And, it worked. They huffed and puffed but they did what he asked them to do.

I was really surprised. So surprised I was anxiously waiting to try myself. I was just waiting for the right opportunity.

And it happened with Abbe Mae. I said sternly, "ONE"......"TWO".....and she ran and gathered her stuff for the morning. OMG it really worked!

Now what am I supposed to do if I get to "THREE"??

Making Changes

2010-04-19T21:28:00.002-05:00

I'm making a lot of changes in my life. Focusing more on family, less on Internet. Focusing on my mind, less on time consuming, useless information.

Feels good.

An interesting read

2010-04-18T13:43:00.001-05:00

How to Be a Savvy Cheapskate

Buzz up! 1871 Print
Katy Marquardt, On Wednesday April 14, 2010, 11:40 am EDT

Don't judge this penny pincher by his cover. Jeff Yeager may be the author of The Ultimate Cheapskate's Roadmap to True Riches--which one might assume to be filled with coupon-clipping strategies and saving tricks--but his philosophy isn't as much about how to get more for less as it is learning to live with less, period. Sure, he blogs about "12 Surprising Ways to Reuse Aluminum Foil," making cider bisque out of your jack-o-lantern, and using just enough toilet paper, but the bigger goal here is to live green, not just cheap. Ultimately, Yeager says, consumers should direct their frugal efforts toward downsizing their lifestyle--in major areas like housing and transportation--rather than saving a buck here and there. U.S. News recently spoke to Yeager about the most effective ways to economize. Excerpts:

Explain your 'cheapskate' philosophy.

I don't really write about penny-pinching tips. I focus more on quality-of-life and happiness issues ... especially the idea of deciding what "enough" is for you. Most people don't ask themselves that. What would be enough money and enough stuff for you? My wife and I answered that question early in marriage, in our 30s. We were living a comfortable lifestyle--why would we want to spend every last dollar we earned as our salaries increased over the years? We established what I call a "permanent standard of living," a level we still live comfortably at today, even though we could afford to spend more ... we managed, for example, to pay off our house in 15 years and essentially retire in our 40s. It's all about the decisions you make.

[See 21 Things We're Learning to Live Without.]

What sorts of decisions?

Well, for me, it's all about the bigger financial decisions in life. I rail against the latte factor ... for 20 years, pundits have been saying that if you give up your daily Starbucks cup and bank the money, you can attain financial security. That may work on paper, but I don't think it works that way in reality, for most people. One [of the bigger decisions] is housing. I'm a big believer in finishing in your starter home: Buy a modest home when you're first starting out and ignore people who tell you not to pay it off right away. Pay off your mortgage as quickly as you can, settle in and get to know your neighbors, and make your house your home. The conventional wisdom before the housing bubble burst was that if you could afford to pay down your mortgage early, instead take that extra money and invest it because mortgage money is relatively inexpensive to borrow. The financial pundits at the time said that any idiot could make a return on their investment above 5 percent or 4 percent of their mortgage interest. ... Well, it didn't work out that way.

These days with the tight economy, you hear so much in the media about economizing. But that's almost always about "how to get more for less" ... how to clip a coupon or find a bargain. But I think we're missing what could be the golden epiphany of these hard times: We shouldn't be asking ourselves "How can we afford it?" We should instead be asking, "Do we really need it?" There's lots of social science that shows that once you're above poverty level, more money and more stuff doesn't contribute to happiness. I believe that most Americans would be happier, and the quality of their lives would increase, if they would only spend and consume less. If you believe as I do, I think there will be a lot of upsides to the current recession in the long run.

[See 12 Hidden Costs of Homeownership.]

What are those upsides?

For example, when gas was $4, we all complained about it, but two-thirds of people reported that they changed their driving habits as a result. And unless I'm missing all the horror stories, nothing awful happened because of it. Certainly driving less is better for the environment and better for our pocketbooks, so where's the downside? Another example: Since the start of the recession, the size of new homes being built in the U.S. has dropped by about 11 percent ... 300 fewer square feet. Again, that's a change, but I don't think that's a bad thing. Think about the tremendous financial impact that the decision to live in a smaller home will have on your life. Not only it cost more to buy [a larger home] in the first place, but once you have those extra 300 square feet, you have to insure it, decorate it, heat and cool it, maintain it, repair it, and pay taxes on it. That's the kind of fundamental decision that has enslaved so many Americans to the yoke of too much debt. So apparently now were going to be living in slightly smaller houses, but why is that a bad thing?

[How to Gauge Your Middle-Class Status.]

If you read the book The Not So Big House, it says that as humans, we're uncomfortable in big spaces. If we have a chance to move into the mansion on the hill, we're not really comfortable with it. We're learning some lessons in the recession. Personal savings rates are up. Even though things are tighter now, we're somehow magically able to put money in the bank. Go figure.

Aside from driving less and being happy with a smaller house, what other significant things we should cut back on?

Eating lower on the food chain, for one. I try to spend only a dollar a pound on food. It's a myth that it costs more to eat healthy. You can spend a lot, but when you think about the kinds of things we should eat the most of--whole grains, legumes, and produce--they tend to cost less per pound than things that are bad for us like red meat and many processed foods that are high in trans saturated fats. I encourage people to eat more meals at home. Forty-five percent of the average U.S. family food budget is spent on food prepared outside of home. And they cost an average of 80 percent more than preparing the same food at home. There's a lot of waste, too. According to the USDA, about 25 percent of food is thrown away, so arguably you could reduce your spending here by 25 percent simply by being smarter about food storage and portion control.

You write a lot about the relationship between being frugal and environmentally conscious on thedailygreen.com. Any takeaways?

For most Americans, the greenest thing you can do is consume less, which probably means spending less. I think there's some hypocrisy in the current green movement, even though I've been an ardent environmentalist my whole adult life. I fear that the so-called green movement is catching on now because there's a bunch of cool, expensive green stuff we can by. It's become what I call a "cause de stuff." Much of the current environmental movement in the U.S. seems to be built around the very thing it should be seeking to combat ... rampant consumerism. Take green cleaning products. They tend to be more expensive than the toxic products. But you can clean almost everything with baking soda and vinegar, which are safer for the environment than green products and cost less than any other cleaning products, green or toxic. Hybrid vehicles are another example. It's cool now to own a $35,000 Prius, although driving a gas guzzler to work instead is better for the environment IF you carpool with four friends. Sure, the greenest choice would be to carpool in a hybrid, but I don't see Americans being that committed to environmentalism. We're really mostly committed to buying cool, expensive, green stuff. That's the hypocrisy I'm talking about.

You must make big purchases every now and then. What's your strategy?

I'm a big believer in the Consumer Reports approach to shopping. Buyer's remorse is at epidemic proportions. How is spending money on something we'll regret later a good thing? It makes us poorer, and clearly hasn't made us happy. My advice is to have a mandatory waiting period. Wait at least a week after you see something in the store that you want. I guarantee that half the time, you won't go buy it.

Once or twice a year, I look at the things I've spent more money on, and ask myself one simple question: "If I had it to do over again, would I have spent that money?" I call it a 'what heck was I thinking? audit." Maybe you'll see that you spend a lot on restaurant meals that you regret. I noticed that when I had a regular 9-to-5 job, when I was stressed at work, I'd often buy things I regretted later. It's a way of helping you learn from your mistakes and change your spending behavior.

40th Wedding Anniversary

2010-04-04T21:28:00.005-05:00

My brother and I hosted a 40th wedding anniversary for my parents at Maggiano's Italian Restaurant this weekend. It was grand. My dad's sister, Aunt Kathy, my favorite aunt in the whole-wide world came. It was awesome of her to come up from Florida. My brother flew in from LA to spend the weekend with us as well. We had close to 30 guests to celebrate this special time with us.

The place was great and the food was fantastic. We toasted my parents and thanked them for all their love and support. Then my mom got up and toasted my dad. She spoke of the good times, but focused on the bad times. The times of financial struggle, of losing loved ones, of the hardships they faced and told us all that it was not the good times that kept them together. The good times were the easy times. She reminded us that when thing are horrible or tough, it's easy to give up. She told us that the hardest parts in her life were losing loved ones both young and old, she knew that when he held her and she put her head on his heart - everything would be okay, cause they still had each other. There wasn't a dry eye in the house after she was done. My dad, a man of few words, returned the favor. I'm so proud of them. My family is lucky to have them.

But isn't there a negative in these types of things? Well, here's mine. We invited a ton of folks. Mostly from out of town. I'm okay and totally understand they can't come. I even expected it and invited mostly as a courtesy. But what I don't appreciate or expect are the few local family members that do not RSVP or RSVP and then call at 4 pm the day of the event and say you can't come (after I paid for you). At this point it's NOT even about the money, it's about the lack of respect for my parents. And to that - I won't be inviting any of them again. !!!!!!! It's their loss.

Blog

2010-03-28T17:33:00.003-05:00

The blog has been neglected lately. Mostly cause we are so busy. Mostly cause I am starting to feel a little more private about my life and the changes that are happening.

I don't think I have very many followers anymore and I'm good with that.

Kids are great. Tyler turns 10 tomorrow. Olivia 4 two weeks ago. School is well for all. Saturday we celebrate my parents 40th wedding anniversary with a big fancy dinner at Maggiano's. We have lots of guests and my brother is coming in.

Hope everyone is well.

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2010-03-14T15:15:00.000-05:00

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2010-03-14T15:06:00.000-05:00

Live Test

2010-03-09T18:34:00.003-06:00

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Taylor Swift

2010-02-18T22:33:00.002-06:00

My husband is in love with her. We are laying here watching her videos over and over again. OUR SONG......

Tyler's new hobby

2010-02-15T20:45:00.001-06:00

Why do I picture him walking around a bar using this stuff to pick up chicks?????????????

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2010-02-15T20:43:00.001-06:00

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2010-02-15T20:23:00.003-06:00

Open letter to Summer

2010-02-14T14:38:00.005-06:00

Dear Summer,

My dear friend Summer, where are you? I miss you terribly. The long days of sun and warm weather are desperately desired. Old man winter has been brutal to us Southern transplants and we are done with his unwelcome and harsh stay.

When you're around, you make me so much happier. I love waking up to birds chirping and sunshine.....I'm so much nicer to people when you're around. You give me so much energy!

I love having you around for those cozy nights too. BBQs and margaritas outside at Club 417 with the neighborhood crew. Don't forget the fire pit!! Everything is just so much better with you here.

We have so many projects we need to get done outside and the sunshine rays you bring make that possible. I don't know how much more of this dull, wet weather I can take!

The kids are needing a good dose of you too. They have been locked indoors long enough and are begging to burn off some of this energy. They want to run, swing, ride bikes and play and they need you to do it!!! Oh how I wish you would hurry up and visit.

So please, Summer, come soon. We welcome you with open arms!!!

Sincerely,

Jennifer

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2010-02-12T19:13:00.001-06:00

1500 Thread Count Egyptian Cotton Sheets

2010-02-10T19:41:00.001-06:00

They are amazing. Beyond amazing. I suggest everyone go out and buy some.

JBN

2010-02-10T18:14:00.002-06:00

My loving mother bought me the prettiest bracelet for my birthday. It's silver with a my initials hand engraved. I love it! I really love it!!!

Thanks Mom!

This vehicle was seized from a drug dealer

2010-02-08T13:46:00.001-06:00

Driving to work the other day, I roll up behind this truck. It caught my eye cause it was a new, black truck with sirens on it. As I got closer, I read the words on the back and never laughed so hard. I love it! Frantically, I grab my phone and snap a shot to share.

Crappy Ending to a Crappy Weekend

2010-02-07T21:50:00.003-06:00

Ugh. I took Friday off cause we ordered a new mattress and bedroom set and it was being delivered. But before that, we had to clean our carpets and paint the bedroom. But before that, we had to find the bedroom floor.

Thursday morning we slapped some paint on the wall where the headboard was going to go and then Jason cleaned the carpet. I think the machine we rented was jacked up cause the stupid floor was sopping wet the next morning. By the way, I woke up sick (sore throat and ear ache) on Friday. The delivery guys showed up at about 8:30 am in the pouring rain with my stuff. Guess it doesn't matter that it's all wet cause my floor is still wet. As they bring in the headboard, I quickly realize it's the WRONG headboard. Guy says, "We'll leave it and you can deal with the store. I have a full truck, our policy is not to take it back." Bite me.

Call the store and argue with the sales guy a minute cause he doesn't get what's wrong. I tell him I want the bed on the floor - I got some other bed that I haven't seen before. "Oh I'll look into it can call you back tomorrow. I have to get a copy of the delivery order from the driver." Now I'm pretty irritated and not feeling well still. I decide to lay around the rest of the day and not paint. To hell with the laundry too.

I wake up on Saturday and paint the entire room - twice. Sales guy calls me and tells me that the bed I wanted is $200 more than what I paid. I said, "MY ASS IT IS--- COME AND PICK IT ALL UP." He said, "Let me see what I can do." I feel we overpaid for it in the first damn place, I surely ain't giving them anymore more. Yes, I said AIN'T. Tired, exhausted and not feeling well still, I go to bed early.

Sunday, I wake up and hit the 30,389,083 loads of laundry I have piled up. You have no idea how much I hate laundry. It's a never ending story in my house. I wish everyone just had two of each item. Anyhow, I end up going to the store for Valentine Day stuff for the kids and between the three I have and the one tag along I'm wore out. Not to mention I spent $150 bucks at Walmart and all I bought was dog food, toilet paper and milk. Then we have a few people over to watch the Superbowl (nothing planned) and the Saint win. I am not a fan of anything from New Orleans so booooo on them.

Finally, while out today, I took out $20 bucks cash just to have on had for breakfast at work this week. Sure enough, Tyler was messing with it and loses it.

I'm pissy. And I'm not looking forward to going to work tomorrow either. I need a weekend get-away. But I'm so fat I don't want anyone to see me so I'd rather stay here and eat Girl Scout cookies. Ugh.

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2010-01-30T15:53:00.003-06:00

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2010-01-30T15:53:00.001-06:00

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2010-01-30T15:52:00.000-06:00

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2010-01-30T15:50:00.001-06:00

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2010-01-30T15:33:00.001-06:00

Snow!!

2010-01-30T09:28:00.003-06:00

It snowed in Nashville! I left work at about 2 pm yesterday and the roads weren't horrible, but I think that changed overnight. This morning when I let Pepper out, she ran out and slid right on top of the snow. It was pretty funny! There is a solid sheet of ice over the snow.

Looks like its going to be an inside day for us. Our plans of running around and our lined-up babysitter are on hold. Boo!!

This-n-That!

2010-01-25T21:32:00.002-06:00

Three kids, things never slow down! My computer time is so limited these days.

Let me see:

-I celebrated my 37 (!!!) birthday last Friday. It was very low-key. My lovie took me to the Cheesecake Factory for dinner. It was very nice and quiet!

-I didn't get a gift cause I'm taking a trip to Chicago soon! Yeah me!

-Kids have been good. We've struggled with all the time off from school and adjusting to getting back in gear.

-Jason and I are working on decorating our bedroom. Very exciting stuff happening in our love palace which will include cool grey walls, a new king-size bed with a sleek small box spring, and a clutter-free minimal design. I'm going semi-fung shway but with a TV....lol.

-We had a busy weekend this weekend with two birthday parties, Girl Scouts, and a trip to the Circus.

-Olivia is loving dance and we just ordered her costume for her recital. I don't know if she'll participate, but she'll look good.

-Olivia is gearing up to turn 4 in March. I've booked her party at Pump-It-Up in March.

-Tyler is doing well with guitar. Although he doesn't practice, he enjoys his lessons. He's also doing Boy Scouts and has been busy with that.

-Tyler turns DOUBLE DIGITS in March as well. Thinking of a hotel party for him. When do we stop with the parties anyway??

-Abbe Mae had a World Tour w/Girl Scouts this weekend. The theme was to help with world hunger. She also is taking a dance clinic sponsored by the Wilson County High School Dance team. On February 2nd, the girls will perform at half time of the high school basketball game. Can't wait to see her dance.

-Jason is talking about the kids on a trip to Maine over spring break. I think they'd have a good time.

-My parents are doing well. They've been hanging out with our neighbors a lot lately.

-I cannot wait for spring and summer!!!!

-My parents will celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary this April. I want to do something for them just not sure what!

-I've heard several horrible stories lately in regards to kids my kids know. It breaks my heart to have to know that any child has lived or suffered a hard life. I just want to take care of all of them.

Saturday

2010-01-10T09:32:00.004-06:00

Yesterday, the girls went out and did some shopping. When I say some, it's a slight understatement. We hit up JCPenney, Old Navy, Home Goods, Target and then lunched at Red Lobster. We wrapped up our day out by hitting Publix to buy some fine drink mixers.

I came home, started a fire and cleaned the house. I threw down my new center rug, fluffed up my new couch pillows, lite some candles and waited for our friends to arrive for dinner.

We had a great time. Good margaritas, great handmade pizzas by Jason, interesting conversation and just an all around relaxing time.

I love Saturdays.

Predators Game

2010-01-05T22:52:00.002-06:00

Tonight the family bundled up and went downtown to the Predators game. Of course, we are not huge hockey fans, but got some great (free) seats in the fourth row of the bowl and a VIP parking pass that could not be passed up. It was a fun time and we really enjoyed it. The kids were well behaved; wish I could say the same for some of the foul mouth fans around us!

That brings me to discuss the Pred Girls. You know, the skimpy outfits, boobs hanging out, practical three inch healed boots while walking on the ice? Yeah, those girls. They normally never bother me but it irritated me that little Abbe Mae was so entranced by them! And how she began to clap and yell "good job" like the male role models around her when they came out to clean the ice. It's not how you get attention ladies!!

Predators lost, but we had a good time. Wouldn't exactly call it a family nite, but it was fun.

C-Section Pain

2010-01-03T20:08:00.002-06:00

Every once in a while, I'll have that bad pain. That wrong twist I make, or trying to get up from a laying down position too fast - and WHAM!!! I get that horrible c-section pain. The pain that literally brings me to a halt. The pain that takes my breath away. The pain that I don't know how else to explain other then the ligaments, and all the junk in the tummy area that just hurts!

I had it today. Almost brought a tear to my eye. In about 40-45 seconds it was gone.

Is it just me?

Olivia's Princess Room

2010-01-03T17:35:00.003-06:00

I was hoping to wait long enough and she would outgrow the desire for a pink princess room. But that never happened. Since she is only three, I decided to grant her wish. She has a pink and green princess room. I worked all day yesterday painting it and Jason hung up and finished the chair rail today. I assembled her pink desk, put on her new comforter and put some princess stickers on the wall. It looks like a princess puked princess stuff all over the room.

And she loves it.

I guess that's all that matters. I have a few things left to do. I ordered curtains and they should be here this week. Also, thankfully, we went to Disney this year so I ordered all the prints I have of her and the real life princesses and will frame/hang those this week and I'm done!

We have slowly painted most of the rooms in the house so far and just have a few left. We waited a year to paint so that that when we had our year inspection and they fixed the drywall, we would have a good start. But now it's almost been TWO years and have several few rooms left. Exciting stuff. I do have to paint the hall bathroom and I'm not looking forward to that. Today we went and looked at backsplash for the kitchen and that is a really tough decision, but it too needs to be done. Hopefully we'll be all finished up so in the spring we'll have time and energy to really focus on the outside!

She made it..

2009-12-26T22:03:00.001-06:00

It took about a year and a half.. but pepper made it in the house. Jennifer even "looked" at a dog bed to put in front of the fireplace.

PICTURES

2009-12-26T10:44:00.000-06:00

Christmas

2009-12-26T09:36:00.004-06:00

Every year I say the same thing, we will get less and do less. And every year we do the opposite of what I say.

We did have a fantastic Christmas at home, just the way I like it. Olivia and I have been under the weather all week, but besides that, it was a grand time. Christmas Eve we all got dressed up and went to Church. This is the first year Abbe Mae participated in the festivities by singing in the Church choir. She really like it and did a good job. This is also the first year Tyler didn't do any extra and just attended Mass. I must admit, Church is one of my most favorite things about Christmas. After Church, we went by Olive Garden and then on to my parent's house for dinner. We came home and each got to open on gift - which is the standard new pair of jammies.

The kids went to bed pretty easily, well except for Tyler who tried to peak downstairs for hours. Santa came and dropped a bunch of toys. One funny side note is Abbe Mae did tell me she was a bit nervous about not getting presents cause she "may have been naughty." She should've been nervous.

Christmas morning Olivia climbed into bed with us, per usual. Funny thing is she walked right past the tree and the loot and didn't even notice. I toyed with the idea of trying to get her back to sleep cause it was only 7:30 am, but instead I whispered, "Livi, did Santa come??" and in 30 seconds flat the entire house was wide awake. Olivia was SO excited.

All the hard work that went into putting Christmas together was worth it to feel that excitment and joy from my kids.

Merry Christmas!

Peppers Second Christmas

2009-12-26T09:29:00.002-06:00

Ol Pepper getting a little Christmas rubs.

Craft Room

2009-12-19T08:40:00.001-06:00

My craft room is ALMOST complete. It is the bomb!! I have two 32" in flat screens in it that can be used as computers or TVs. I have lights every where. I have lots of counter space. AND I got a NEW embroidery machine for Christmas!!!

I'll post pictures soon.

Been Busy!

2009-12-15T20:42:00.004-06:00

So much going on this time of the year. The regular things with dance, guitar, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, work, husband, laundry, etc. Then my drive too and from work is wearing cause it's 45-50 minutes each way. My day starts at 5:45 am and I don't get a chance to actually relax until 9:00 pm every night, and by then, I'm exhausted.

Throw Christmas and the parties, gifts, bring-this or donate-that into the mix. The kids have their standard Church functions too except this year Abbe Mae has decided to sing in the choir. While I'm excited for her, practice is once a week - Wednesday night. So that means with everything else we have going on, we are only home one night a week, which is Thursday. And this Thursday we will be finishing up some last minute shopping for the school parties and Boy/Girl Scout parties we have on Friday.

Is is December 26th yet?

Christmas Fancy Party

2009-12-06T20:54:00.003-06:00

Whew! What a busy weekend! We went to Sarah and Elijah's Baby Jesus party on Friday night. It was a lot of fun and the kids didn't want to leave.

Then today we had our Fancy Party for the girls and invited Santa Claus again. There were a ton of little kids and it went by pretty fast (which I like)! We didn't do the chocolate fountain cause I was nervous about it being flu season, but other than that, it was the same as last year. Abbe Mae was thrilled cause both her teacher and speech teacher came to her party!

When I have more time, I HAVE to post about these two little kids that go to Olivia's school. There must of been a mix up with the invitations or something and some of the mother's were sassy! I'll share later.

But for now, here are some pictures!

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2009-12-06T12:20:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday Jason

2009-11-30T20:41:00.001-06:00

Enjoy your special gift, even if it's a week early.

The Elf on the Shelf

2009-11-28T08:43:00.003-06:00

We got The Elf on the Shelf last year from Nana before Christmas. It's a story about a magic elf (which you name) that flies to the North Pole every night to tell Santa if you've been naughty or nice. The book comes in a box with a little glass headed elf doll. The elf sits next to us when we read the story, then we put him on the shelf before we go to bed. In the morning, after he flew to the North Pole, the elf is in a different place than he was the night before and the children have to find him.

This year, Abbe is in LOVE with this book. Last night after we read it, it was all she talked about all night. Even to the point where she got up around 9:30 pm and came out to check on the Elf (whom we named Mr. Ringly Red-Nose). Then this morning, the first thing out of her mouth was "Did he come back??"

So much fun these kids are!

Happy Thankgiving!

2009-11-26T10:54:00.004-06:00

If you really know me, you know that I'm an emotional sap. If you're hurt, I'm hurt. If my kids cry, I do too. Family and friends are my heart.

Thanksgiving is such a great day to enjoy family. Honestly, it shouldn't be any different from any other day, but it does give us the opportunity to see people we haven't seen in a while. Today we are making an hour long trip to a city in Tennessee to meet up with some of my mom's cousins. Some family from Chicago will be down and we will celebrate together. But it won't really feel like the Thanksgiving I'm used too.

While growing up, we were always close to my Dad's side of the family, spending holidays, birthdays and summers together. The holidays make me miss them all terribly. I wish my kids had the cousins, aunts and uncles around like we did. It was the best feeling in the world. Now, everyone is so spread across the country, we don't have that opportunity. It also makes me miss thos who are no longer with us and it hurts.

I've also been following a blog of little girl in my Church that is Tyler's age. Bishop has been battling cancer. I read her blog this morning and she's finally home, but I can't imagine the things they are facing makes it any easier for her parents and brother. I think about her often and the struggles she faces and have a hard time understanding it.

So whether your spending today alone, with family, or friends, be thankful for your past, present and future.

Enjoy your day.

About "my heart is aching" post

2009-11-23T20:40:00.002-06:00

No worries - I didn't take it down cause the differences of opinions or passionate responses. I honestly am thankful to hear everything everyone has to say. It makes me think of things I might not of thought of, to think of other perspectives.

I took it down cause I didn't want anymore embarrassment. In case family or friends read it and said something out of compassion or worry.....I didn't want any more hurt feelings.

That's it!

Thanks for the continued support and love! <3

FYI My Birthday

2009-11-16T21:56:00.000-06:00

Just a heads up.. my birthday is December 8th. A few weeks of shopping left. My wife has already got me a present :) Thanks! Pick it up Friday in Greenbrier TN.

Christmas

2009-11-16T20:58:00.003-06:00

I'm excited for the holidays. I love the traditions we've created with my little family such as the children's play at Church on Christmas Eve, followed by a trip to Olive Garden for a to-go order pick up, lighting our fire in the wood burning fire place and then opening one present (which is always new jammies for the holiday). We wrap up Christmas Eve with a nice hot coco and a story about the Magic Elf. On Christmas day we wake up to warm sweet rolls and Christmas music as we gather around to open presents. I look forward to the excitement the holidays bring to all of us.

We have a busy schedule this year with parties, parades, shopping and church. Jason and I talked about gifts for the kids. I'm honestly tired of them not taking care of nor appreciating stuff. Tyler got the IPOD touch last year and although he used it a ton, he cracked the screen. The girls, well they play with stuff for a day or two then it's ignored. This year, as YOU are my witness, I will not go nuts and buy all kids of worthless stuff. I want to stick to a three gift minimum and then maybe a group gift (a new trampoline cause our other one broke).

I've also planned our Fancy Party for the girls and their friends. We've secured a visit by Santa Clause so I have to get invitations together this week. I picked up some Ghiradelli's chocolate for the fountain, bought stockings and crafts so I think we will be set.

The girls are thrilled that we are going to Elijah and Sarah's "Baby Jesus Birthday Party". Olivia told me she was going to be Sarah's best friend at the party.

All of the kids are also scheduled to be in the parade this year. Olivia for her dance class, Abbe and Tyler for Scouts. It's going to be a busy Saturday!

Ahhhh, I really do love this time of the year!

Now if I can just my Christmas cards out this year!!

Craft Room

2009-11-15T20:37:00.003-06:00

My craft room project had been put on hiatus. I should say my husband went on hiatus. But we are finally on par to finish it up soon and I'm so excited!!! I have lights, lots of lights! Recessed lights, track lights and fluorescent lights. I have a flat screen mounted on the wall with a Bose Soundwave underneath. I have a computer monitor on order. I'm psyched. I'll finally get to use last year's Christmas presents....a steamer, new iron, small shop vac, etc. etc. And most importantly, I get to craft again!

I can't want for the woman cave to be complete. I may never come out.

Olivia Update

2009-11-13T19:36:00.003-06:00

Doctor called yesterday to follow up on Olivia's H1N1 diagnosis. Said it was not necessary for her to get her booster vaccine. I had the pleasure of notifying her daycare of her illness. Proud to say we are the first case.

Anyhow, she's doing much better today. She'll run around a bit, but wears out easily.

Keeping my fingers crossed Abbe Mae and Tyler stay clear of it. So far, so good.

I think I'm going to go on to Chloe's

2009-11-13T19:26:00.005-06:00

My adventurous Kindergartner.

Imagine how my heart sank when Jason called me yesterday at work and said Abbe Mae didn't get off the bus. Tyler stumbled up the drive way minus his five-year old sister.

Abbe Mae told him she was just going to go on to her friend's house, Chloe.

And he let her.

Jason was frantically trying to load my H1N1 infected three-year old up into the car so he could chase the bus down. I was frantically calling Chloe's grandmother, the school and the transportation department.

I get the Assistant-Principal at the school, and tell her what's going on. She says, "Well we didn't put her on the wrong bus, what do you need me to do." Ummmm, I need you to stop placing blame and get a hold of that damn bus driver is what I need you to do. But we had a little "talk" earlier this week about fundraisers so I know what I'm dealing with here in Hicktown, USA.

Finally the school gets a hold of Chloe's grandma just as Jason pulls into her driveway. Three minutes later, Abbe Mae stumbles off the bus and realizes how much trouble she's in. Although when I got home and quizzed her on it, she decided she wasn't going to talk about it.

I'm irritated the whole way around. I'm disappointed she thought she could "go on" without permission, I'm irritated Tyler let her and I'm wonder WTF the bus driver was thinking??

I'm not proud to say these people are educating and taking care of my precious cargo.

H1N1

2009-11-11T19:25:00.002-06:00

Olivia tested positive for it today. Poor thing is really sick. Y'all say a prayer that I can get this Tamiflu into her (only 3 mil).

Olivia

2009-11-10T21:03:00.000-06:00

"Mommy, Abbe has a bad attitude."

No kidding.

Roll Tide

2009-11-08T21:02:00.002-06:00

I'm really into this Alabama football thing. Jason laughs at me cause I know nothing about the team. I just don't care for UT, and I love to say: ROLL TIDE!! Not to mention, the color scheme is way cuter than orange and white.

I think I may get a flag for the outside of my house.

December 21, 2012

2009-11-08T21:01:00.000-06:00

Really?? Come on! Do you know what this is?

Father/Daughter Dance 2009

2009-11-07T21:25:00.003-06:00

Tonight was a special night for Abbe Mae and Jason. They attended the 2009 Princess Ball in our community. They had a fancy dinner, did the twist and danced and father/daughter dance together. I have to admit, after they left, Tyler, Olivia and I did a drive by of the place to check it out. I teared up thinking about this and how fast we've gotten here.

Life is good.

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2009-11-07T18:24:00.001-06:00

H1N1

2009-11-03T16:55:00.001-06:00

We did the mist today for the kids.

Ugggh. The stress of it all.

The Princess and the Frog

2009-11-02T19:32:00.002-06:00

Can't wait for this Disney movie to come out! My girls are giddy with excitement every time they see the previews.

'Bout time Disney, 'bout time.

Aqua Blue

2009-11-02T19:23:00.002-06:00

Olivia has said several times she wanted her ears pierced. I've never really followed up with her cause I figured she wasn't serious, and honestly, I didn't want to deal with a one-earring girl.

Abbe Mae's ears were pierced when she was about four months old. I didn't have any problems or concerns with them, just with three kids, I never had time to do Olivia's. Before I knew it, she was one and I didn't want to do it at that age cause I was afraid she'd mess with them too much.

So Saturday after a trip to Yankee Candle, she said it again. I took her into the jewelry store and she bravely sat in the chair, picking out the March "aqua" blue birthstone earrings.

The lady put the purple dot on her ear lobe perfectly on both ears. We talked about the lollipop she was going to get afterwards. I told her it was going to pinch a bit and asked her if she really wanted to do it.

She bravely said YES.

The first ear was a shock. She cried. I knew we had to continue on and we did. She was pissed for ten minutes and gave me some mean looks, but now she's proud. She came home and called her grandma & grandpa in Maine to share the news! Then she called her Nana & Grandpa here and told them. She's been cleaning and turning them several times a day.

She's looking adorable these days!

Christmas

2009-11-02T19:10:00.002-06:00

Abbe Mae: Mommy, I want an I-Phone, a new laptop and some makeup for Christmas.

Me: Me too, Abbe Mae, me too.

Update

2009-10-25T20:33:00.003-05:00

We've been so busy lately! It seems to never end. Olivia is performing her Halloween dance on Tuesday so I will post pictures. Tyler is starting guitar lessons and we purchased a fancy black guitar for him. Abbe Mae is loving Daisies and we attended a fancy Mommy & Me Tea last week.

Seems like it never stops! Birthday parties, fall festivals, work functions, school functions....busy as can be!

Halloween weekend we are doing our standard neighborhood Halloween fire/drinks/dinner. We have several families coming over and will be cooking chili over the fire with Cider and Schnapp's for adults and hot coco for kids, followed by trick-or-treating. Tyler is some scary Halloween monster that has a hand-held blood pumper, Abbe is the fanciest witch I've ever seen, and Olivia is Cinderella equipped with these blue light up glass slippers.

For work I've talked six people into dressing up with me and doing the Thriller dance for our Halloween party. It's going to be fun.

Jason and I got to sneak out to a movie this afternoon thanks to our neighbor Jodi offering to watch the kids for a while. We went to see "Law Abiding Citizen" with Jamie Foxx and Gerard Butler. Remember when we recently went to California last month, I stood outside the Chinese Theater for the world premier of this movie?? Jamie and Gerard are practically family because of it!

Jason is set up for his sleep apnea machine this week. Hopefully it will help with his sleep issues.

The weather here is starting to get chilly. We've already had a fire in our fireplace twice this year.

Fall Break

2009-10-18T08:57:00.001-05:00

Mommy: Abbe Mae, tomorrow you'll have to get up early for school.

Abbe Mae; NOOOOOO! I don't want to go to school.

Mommy: You have to go! You learn so much at school.

Abbe Mae: I already know everything!!

Don't know where she gets that from?

California Love in my best Tupac voice

2009-10-11T20:44:00.004-05:00

We had a great trip to California. The flight was very long. Five hours long going out because of the winds. A bit over four coming home. But well worth it.

We arrived in LA on Saturday. We picked up the minivan and drove to Disneyland and checked in our hotel. The two hour time change didn't hit us immediately, so we went shopping in Downtown Disney.

Sunday, the time change did hit! We all woke up at 6 am California time (8 am Nashville time). But we had a busy day planned so it was okay! We arrived at Disneyland before the gates opened. The girls had appointments at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutque at 8:10 am. Abbe Mae chickened out right before her turn, although I wasn't surprised, I was a bit disappointed. Her big thing is she's not into "princesses" and is afraid to have people brush her hair cause it's so curly. Olivia sat right up there and got the full treatment. It's amazing how much they cater to these little girls. It was pretty damn magical if I do say so myself. Problem was, Olivia would NOT change into her Cinderella dress. I think it's cause Abbe Mae was being sassy about it and it made Olivia a little hesitant about the process. So needless to say, Olivia is going to be Cinderella this year for Halloween cause I'm getting my money's worth and girlfriend is wearing the dress. But back to the BBB experience, they do take really good care of the girls in the salon, calling them princesses and there is even a magical reveal at the end. I thought it was neat.

After the BBB, we had to rush over to California Adventure for our Princess Breakfast at Ariel's Grotto. It was great cause you truly do get more one-on-one attention at the character meals. We were able to get autographs of Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, Ariel, Bell and Cinderella. It was a grand time. The girls were beyond thrilled!!

We ended up staying the rest of the day at California Adventure and had a great time. Early evening, we decided to head back to the hotel to sleep a bit (time change and all the excitement started to wear some of us thin). We wanted to make it back to Disneyland for the fireworks! And I'm glad we did! The fireworks display was amazing. I've been to DW and seen some good shows, but this one was by far the best. It was a Halloween theme with all of the villains casting spells and such. We originally planned to stay at Disneyland late cause the park was open until midnight, but we ended up leaving after the fireworks. We were all tired.

Monday we went back to Disneyland for the day. Rode all the rides, face painted and most importantly got to hang out with Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, etc. Tyler got to ride some of the bigger rides so he had fun.

Some of our favorites were the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse show, HSM, jellyfish drop, teacups and Tyler and I loved the Tower of Terror!! I had so many people tell me not to be disappointed in the size of Disneyland compared to Disneyworld. I have to say, I think I like Disneyland a bit better! It's so much more manageable. It's so close together. Disneyworld is TOO spread out. There's nothing like having small children that are exhausted and overstimulated and having to drag them six miles to the hotel or parking lot by the way of tram/boat/shuttle. I loved how close together the parks were and that Downtown Disney was attached. Disneyworld is not like that at all. The castle isn't as exciting at Cinderella's but in the grand scheme of things, Disneyland is so much easier. Except they don't have the double rental strollers in DL!! Boooo!

Tuesday we headed out to LA to stay with my brother. We spent the day on Venice Beach. The kids LOVED it. They played in the water and sand for hours. Then we walked over to the playground for another hour. Not sure if it was the time change catching up with us, all the excitement or the ocean air, but the girls were in full breakdown mode. We left the beach area and planned on grabbing a late lunch, but scratched that idea because of behavior and went on to my brother's apartment for naps.

Let me tell you, my brother lives the life. The single, I make a lot of money with no kids life. He lives on the corner of Sycamore and Hollywood Blvd., just a few short steps from the Chinese/Kodak Theater. Right in the heart of LA. After well needed naps, we walked around and looked at the STARS in the sidewalks. That evening I snapped a few pictures of Jamie Foxx and Gerard Butler (melt!) as they were in the area to promote their new movie. It was pretty dang cool.

Wednesday, we decided to hit up Universal Studios. It was nice cause the lines were only five to ten minutes for each ride. We rode EVERYTHING in the park and were all done by 5 pm. (Again, compared to Orlando, US in CA is one park and in Orlando it's two parks.) My brother had plans to take the kids to dinner and to see Toy Story in 3D so Jason and I got to go to dinner alone and shopped at the Grove.

We started our long journey home on Thursday.

It was a great trip. I really enjoyed Disneyland. We took over 700 pictures on the Rebel alone so once I sort through, I'll post some pictures.

Venice Beach

2009-10-08T22:33:00.007-05:00

Abbe Mae's Room

2009-09-27T22:03:00.002-05:00

Because it rained all morning yesterday, I decided to redecorate Abbe Mae's room.

Now you've got to understand her personality a bit. She's not into pink, princess, flowers, rainbows, butterflies, etc.

She likes black and skulls. She like to wear jean skirts, black leggings with her black skull Converse (which are boys but she didn't care). Don't get me wrong, she likes to look pretty, but not in a typical, pink/purple fashion. Let's just be thankful they have to wear uniforms in our school district.

I blame Hannah Montana and Wizards of Waverly Place, but that's another post.

Anyhow, we took down all the butterflies, folded up the cute pink and green quilt, disposed of the sparkly window treatment cause it too was pink and green and started fresh. I painted her room a light blue/green color, added a black "Rockstar" comforter set, rearranged her furniture, changed her curtains, and added a few items such as a new lamp and some pictures.

It looks so "big girl-ish" and it makes me a bit sad cause she's five. But she's Abbe Mae and that's what she wanted. Thank goodness Olivia likes princesses.

Lookout Disneyland!

2009-09-27T21:50:00.004-05:00

Here we come!

I ordered *some* stuff from Disney.com and it arrived last week. I wanted a head start on shopping and wanted to be prepared from the minute we arrived at the parks. So the three autograph books/photo albums along with matching character pens arrived and are ready to be packed. Our Mickey shirts are washed and folded. All of Olivia's princess gear fits and is set. Speaking of princess gear, I ordered Olivia a new Cinderella dress along with these crazy, clear glass slippers that light up with this blue light when she walks. Jason and I giggled watching her prance around all while thinking they slightly resembled hooker shoes.

So we leave on Saturday for LAX. I'm glad it cooled down some and am looking forward to a good time. That is, if we stay healthy and can make the four hour flight with Olivia and Abbe. Oye.

Parking

2009-09-27T21:43:00.003-05:00

Jason has worked hard today to clean out our garage. Now, I've asked for almost a year and a half to have a clean bay to park my car in. The whole reason we spent the extra money on the three car garage was so we would be able to park in it! Also, the whole reason we had to add the shed in the back was so we could make room to park in the garage.

Well, now we can. I'm sure it's because of the Hummer, but I'd like to think it's cause winter's coming and my husband doesn't want me or his kids to get cold. Either way, I like it.

Both cars are in the garage tonight. I hope I remember to open the garage door before I put the car in drive tomorrow. Holla!

Sick Kid!!

2009-09-27T21:24:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, Tyler said he had a sore throat. Then at 3 pm he said he was going to lay down. I knew then, it was not good.

After a wake up call early this morning, we went off to the minute clinic this morning. Although he didn't have a fever, I knew he was sick. I've been to this minute clinic several times and have always had great service. Except this time. This rough-ass looking PA came out to get us. Y'all know how it is when you have a sick kid and you've waited a long time, so we were already a little stressed. The lady says, "I need your drivers license and insurance card." I look in my wallet and thought, crap! Jason took the insurance card for his sleep study last week. I tell her I didn't have my card and ask her if she can look me up since I've been there before. She replies, "No. I can't, I can't see you. You'll have to leave."

What the hell.

First of all, you don't know me. My kid is sick and you WILL see him. I waited for you; a professional to take care of him. You are disrespectful and rude. So in my most direct, momma bear voice I responded, "No. You WILL see him. I will pay cash. I waited for you, he's sick and you will see him." She gave me an evil ass look and said, "FINE".

She was very nice to Tyler, lucky her but a complete bitch to me the entire time. The topping on the cake was at the end when she asked me if she wanted me to call the meds into another Walgreen's. I said, "Yes, call it into the Mount Juliet one so we don't have to wait." She then responded, "No, I can't do that, it's too late they close in THREE HOURS and he needs his medicine now."

Tyler, please wait out side cause shit is finda hit the fan. And it did. And it will tomorrow when they call me for the check up call. Grumpy rude people should not be in healthcare. My reaction to her did freak Tyler out a bit and that I am sorry for. But at the same time, it's hard not to react when it comes to my kid.

My poor son has Strep throat. He had a field trip tomorrow at the Hermitage, which is the home of President Andrew Jackson. He was going to dress up in costume and direct visitors. He'd been practicing his lines for weeks. WEEKS.

Thankfully, he's on medicine and will hopefully be better before Disneyland next week. Hopefully the girls will stay healthy. *fingers crossed*

Parking at work

2009-09-24T14:58:00.000-05:00

A change of heart

2009-09-22T12:28:00.005-05:00

My tree huggging neighbor down the road wasnt talking to me when i first broke the news that daddy was nailing a Hummer. She is very environmentally aware and felt driving a hummer would only pollute the world more, killing all life form and basically ending the earth. So, taking that into consideration, i cancelled the carmax order, put my tail between my legs and walked away. Judging by the picture, she seems to appreciate this car a little more.... a 2009 Hummer H3, 5 speed manual, i should get a extra gallon on two MPG wise..

This weekend

2009-09-20T19:06:00.003-05:00

Thought I'd give you an update of this weekend's exciting happenings.......

Friday night Jason had his sleep study. We decided to score a Logan's Roadhouse before, you know, so his belly was full before the study. He left for the hospital at about 7:00 pm while the kids and I headed over to Old Navy for a little shopping. We all landed a little treat at ON. We came home and the four of us slept in my bedroom. Ahhhhh!

Saturday we had a busy day. Gladefest is a local festival held at our school and the little town area we live in. Lucky for me, both Abbe Mae's Girl Scout Troop and Kindergarten class wanted "homemade" baked goods. But, if you know me, you know that I am not a great..urrrr....good cook. So, of course in typical Jennifer fashion, I bought tubs of cookie dough and baked some cookies. Some may call that shady, however, I call it participation. Thankfully, Tyler's class asked for gift card donations and THAT I can handle. :) We had to help volunteer for two hours at the school so I covered Tyler's class and Jason covered the Girl Scout booth. We spent the entire day at the festival and it was fun. We hooked up with the "P" family and it made it even better.

Speaking of the "P" family, we had our standard drinking and dinner set up at my house Saturday night afterwards. Standard I say cause it's the same thing we typically do when we hang out (it's not a negative statement, I really have fun with it!). Jason and Jodi fight, Josh ignores everything and cooks, and I drink. Well, Abbe Mae must of been exhausted from Gladefest so she came home and fell asleep at 6 pm. I was shocked (and scared). Olivia and the "P" kids played all night. When it was time for them to go, Olivia threw her standard tantrum and said she wanted to spend the night. Jodi told her to come on. I hesitated, but thought, sure, she'll go down for a bit and come home scared, crying for her mommy. That didn't happen. She went down there and spent the night. Now, another thing about me is I never, EVER, EEEEVVVVVVEEERRRRR let my kids stay anywhere. Just a fear I have. I'd rather have them here with their friends. Tyler has had countless sleepovers at our house (including one last night) but I don't let them go anywhere. Especially, Olivia. She's my baby. Well she went and she stayed. And she didn't even ask for me once.

Today we all piled up to see "Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs". It was cute, but there was a sound problem in the movie. Because I complained about it, we got a set of free movie tickets. :) Again, you've got to know me.

Now we are gearing up for a busy week. Girl Scouts, dance Tuesday, all five of us have dentists appointments on Thursday and Muffins with Mom/Abbe Mae on Friday. Busy, busy, busy.....but all enjoyable.

Daddys New Ride

2009-09-14T16:29:00.000-05:00

Live Action

2009-09-01T18:56:00.002-05:00

Watch live video from jasonburden on Justin.tv

Margaritaville

2009-08-25T17:34:00.001-05:00

Isnt it a thing of beauty?