What About A Bob???

We cut Kirsten's hair and in her words,... "Who cares? Anyways... I like it because I don't have bangs anymore(When we sweep them to the side) and it is sooo moveable when I move my head.

And in my words, it looks a lot healthier and cuter. It is actually pretty easy to do, which was a great fear of mine. Best of all, she likes it and can't quit moving her head back and forth to feel her hair move. If any of you should she her, please, don't mention that she has bangs. They are finally looking good for the first time since she cut them to her scalp a year ago. She thinks that when we sweep her bangs to the side that she doesn't have bangs. She has seen herself and still thinks this. Honestly, I don't care what she thinks as long as she leaves her bangs alone.

I think we are going to try to grow her bangs out. I know, Mom, you think she looks so much cuter with bangs. Part of me agrees, however, seeing has she has spent a fair amount of time this year trying to either trim them herself or cut them completly off. And she keeps finding the scissors no matter how well I hide them. I think she gets to decide and she has stated that she doesn't want bangs anymore. So....in my Mom's words, "End of Discussion!"

I Fell Into Sin....

I overheard my daughter singing the following song to the tune of "A Spoon Full of Sugar" from the Mary Poppins soundtrack.

I fell into sin,
I fell into sin,
I fell into sin,
In the most delightful ways.

Isn't that how it usually happens?
Such wisdom from 5 year old.

It Went Off With A Hitch!!!

The wedding went off beautifully. Except for the guy who entered the sanctuary via a side door on the stage during the wedding. He had to have known there was a wedding going on. We had been setting up most of the day Thursday, all day Friday, and all day Saturday before the big event. That, and he probably had to park a mile away just to get to the building. Atleast he was quiet, quickly shut the door, and got out of there. Since nothing ever goes as expected here are a few other things that threw us for a loop, but it all worked out in the end. Most of these things were either corrected or not even noticable to most people. The tuxedos didn't come in an had to be overnighted to get there in time, my sisters dress lining never got sewn, it was still pinned in place, we got the linens a day late(but you can't really complain about it, when your brother-in-law gets you a screaming deal), and they sent us brand new chair covers that were still in the packaging and wrinkled. The company that handled the chair covers gave us(and by us, I mean Brenda) a discount on the price. The most ironic thing was the bridal shop, where she bought her dress and rented the tux's from, did exactly what she had warned other brides to be weary of in that shop. My sister used to work for another bridal shop in town, and if they would have had the dress she wanted she would have went through them.

That being said, it was a beautiful wedding and most people didn't have a clue any of this had happened. Brenda looked breathtakingly wonderful throughout the evening and her dress was gorgeous and not just anybody could have pulled that dress off. The flowers were awesome and look amazing. The food was delicious and according to the men, having wait staff walking around and serving appetizers to you made the wedding, that and the open bar. Isn't that like every man's dream come true, being served food wherever they happen to be. Well, I've used up all my adjectives for the day. I'll try to post some pictures tomorrow.

Sorry, Sorry, Sorry

I am sorry I haven't posted in a while. I haven't forgotten about my bloglife.

It's just that, you see, my sister is getting married this weekend and I have been busy with stuff relating to this. Mostly cleaning my house and preparing for visitors(mental and physical stuff). Some of this stuff I had put off for way to long. Oh! And everyone from my Dad's side of the family(except for my Dad, because he wasn't invited) is coming to the wedding. This weekend should be quite the ride. Hopefully, I can hold on tight, keep my emotions in check, my mouth shut and enjoy the ride.

Sling Shot

The following happened with an 8 year old at work today-

After he was overheard telling another child that he could see her underwear and I shook my head at him, to let him know that he shouldn't be saying this. He says to me, rather loudly, from across the room, "What? At home when my mom bends over and we see her underwear, we tell her that we can see her sling shot!"

I'm guessing she doesn't wear briefs.

Interesting Facts I Learned Today

My bible study group finished our last study and we decided to do a study on Jonah. I never knew what an awful place Ninevah was. If God told me to go to Ninevah, I think, I would have headed somewhere else just like Jonah. I would like to say that I would do whatever God told me to do and go wherever God told me to go, but I am not so sure that I would. I struggle to do the small things God asks me to do and they are a cake walk compared to what he asked of Jonah. I might be the only one who didn't already know these things. Either way, I hope you find these interesting.

Here are a few facts about Ninevah(from around the time God told Jonah to visit):

1. They were pagan people that hated Jews.(Jonah was a Jew)
2. They would go to Jewish settlements and kill everybody and make a pyramid out of the heads they had collected.
3. They were like our modern day version of a War Lord.
4. They would take people out to the desert, bury them up to their chin, pull out their tongue, put a stake in it and leave them to die.
5. It was about 200 miles away from where Baghdad is today.(I guess things haven't changed much through out the years.)

"I'm Feelin' Hella Good, So I Just Keep On ........

Farting, I'm feelin' hella good, so I just keep on farting." Yes, this is my son's new version to the No Doubt song Hella Good. It normally goes "I'm feelin' hella good, so I just keep on dancing." Apparently his version is best sung while wagging your butt from side to side. I'm unsure who to thank for the creativity being shown by my son. I do believe that Grandpa, Uncle Troy, and Dad are at the top of the list and probably grinning from ear to ear with pride as they read this. I, however, think it is kind of funny, but am upset that he picked a No doubt song to desecrate because this is my favorite band. And, of course, he picked the song that says "hella" in it. That way I get to document in my blog that my music that was listened to, with my son in the van is what caused him to cuss for the first time. Of course, he has no clue what he is saying and at the time was trying to irritate his sister. I guess my play list just got cut! That sucks! I love that CD and I'm tired of listening to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, among others.

Konrad, also, told me on Saturday that he knows what ta-tas, tees, and breasts are. I was ready to rip into Kurt, since he had been hanging around with him all day.
So, I asked "Oh, you do?"
and he says, while clapping, "Yeah, ta-ta, ta-ta, tee and rest."(sounds like breast)
Then I figured out what my sister-in-law the music teacher, probably, figured out right away. These are beats that he is learning in music class and he claps twice for ta-ta, once for tee, and does nothing during the rest. Boy, was I relieved.

I think we just lost our bid for Parents of the Year. I guess we had it coming! Atleast, we didn't let him play in the middle of the street with a sharp knife. We should get points fo that.

A Shower Success Story

This weekend I threw a bridal shower for my sister. It went incredibly well and, I think, everyone had a good time. If they didn't then they are a bunch of good actors and liars. I am way excited about this because I did something different for her shower. Atleast, I've never heard of it being done. Instead of playing the usual assortment of games that you play at every shower, we beaded. Of course, I liked the idea and thought it sounded like fun. I was a bit nervous that no one would enjoy it or they would be intimidated by it. I put an assortment of glass beads all over the table in containers and gave everyone 4 loops of memory wire with one end turned and let everyone get to work. Everyone's bracelet looked different and except for one(the two flowergirl's looked better than hers) they all turned out cute and definitly wearable. I, also, brought stuff to make earrings and the people who got done before some of the others were able to make matching earrings. We then did cake and gifts and the shower was over in about 1 1/2 hours. I thought the timing was perfect. I just love it when everything works out the way you envision it. Thanks God! It worked out so well that I volunteered to do a baby shower for my pregnant sister-in-law who enjoys beading and got me started. Oh! and by the way, I also volunteered that my other sister-in-law would help me with the shower. She reads this and is now aware that she has been volunteered. Don't worry I left room for you to bow out gracefully if you need to. That's what you get for calling me a hippie, even if I secretly embrace this title. LOL!

Here's a picture of my bracelet-

Best Brother is Home

Yep, that is right. He arrived home last night. We are all glad to hear he is home, especially his wife. When he got off of the plane in Maine(I think? before flying to California) there was a group of Veteran's there to cheer for them and welcome them home. He thought this was pretty cool.

I was, also, informed recently by Kirsten that Piles is a very special bear and he has two birthdays. To bad he ended up in our family because we only celebrate one birthday per person per year. This is strict family policy. Good try on her part, though!

Piles Birthday Party

While doing some shopping for my sister's bridal shower that I'm helping to throw this weekend. Kirsten informs me that today is Piles birthday. For those of you who don't know, Piles is her favorite and very special stuffed animal and unless she can find a replacement for his tickle nose she has trouble falling to sleep or calming down. Piles has been a part of our family for more than 6 years and he also has the distinction of being Kirsten's only male stuffed animal. Now, Piles has never had a birthday before and I didn't know that koala bears (that look like a regular bears that resemble what James Frey(author of A Million Little Pieces) claims he looked like when he arrived at the clinic) even had birthday's.

Needless to say, that when I found out that it was Piles birthday I was a bit suprised and the following conversation took place.

"Oh, I didn't know it was Piles birthday."
"Well, it is. What is today?"
"Thursday"
"No, I mean what is the day, day?"
"It is the 9th?"
"Yeah, that's right his birthday is on today the ninth and he needs a party! And I will invite all my friends and Piles would like that. Piles would like that(pointing at something) for his birthday and he would like that, and......I tune out....... yada yada yada................ yada yada yada....... yada yada yada...........he's five just like me."

I must of had a weak moment. I think part of it was realizing that she's going to school next year and I'm not sure how much longer she will have this wonderful imagination. So, I gave in and let her pick out a gift from the $1.00 section to give Piles. I, also, let her pick out some cupcakes with Carebear rings on them. I did draw the line at inviting friends, but by the time we left the store she had worked in a package of balloons and Madagascar napkins. And it was all worth it!!

When we got home, she immediatly started drawing and coloring a picture to wrap his gift in and she wrapped his gift herself. Piles ate dinner with us, balloons were blown up in his honor, we ate cupcakes on the Madagascar napkins, and Kirsten helped Piles open his gift. She held his paw in her hand while she used the same hand to unwrap the gift. Yes, it was a good party and everyone except Konrad enjoyed themselves. Konrad proclaimed it the most boring birthday party ever. Even if Konrad didn't have a good time, I know Kurt and I will cherish this memory.

And in truly cheesy fashion-

Present for Piles $1.00
Carebear Cupcakes $2.50
Package of Ballons $ .95
Napkins $1.25
Being invited to my daughters stuffed koala's 5th birthday party $Priceless$

YAY!!! Best Brother Made My Day!!!

I was checking the comments on my last two posts and I had comments from someone new. At first, I was a bit curious about who this wierdo was that was reading my blog. Imagine my suprise and excitement when I found out that I know the weirdo. It was my brother who has been in Iraq for the last 6 months. Hopefully, I will get to talk to him over the phone when he is home safe and states-side in the next week. I enjoyed hearing from him in my comments section. Just for the record, he is my best brother. Of course, the odds are in his favor as he is my only brother.

Hey B, thanks for taking the time to comment. I know you don't always have a lot of time, and you made my day. That and the fact that you pointed out that I look better in make-up and younger than Carrot Top. Also, A BIG THANKS for not using you usual screen name of "scalded nut" I am sure nobody had taken that one, yet. he..he..he..LOL - I Am looking to hearing form you soon. Love ya!

Grand Prix Results

The Saturday before we left on our trip, we had the Grand Prix. Yes, I did get the cars done and they turned out pretty good. Atleast, I thought so. Neither one of them was fast enough to win the race(Kurt was in charge of the wheels and weights-That's what makes the car fast. So we'll blame it on him) I was in charge of design. And Drumroll, Please..... Konrad's won 1st place for design. He told me what he wanted, I helped him draw it out, he sanded it and primed it, and I helped him paint it. I don't think it hurt him any that some of his highschool buddies(like the scoob and Lyle) were the judges. Kirsten didn't win anything. I think this is partly because the powers that be thought I did everything on her car(mainly adults whose children don't have the imagination or ideas that Kirsten does, and therefore they don't understand how involved she truly was). I did most of the work on her car, as did the other parents of 5 year olds. But she decided what she wanted it to look like, what color, and where to glue the rhinestones. She also helped with the sanding and supervised the painting. As she was telling me for the 10th time in a very assertive manner that she wanted her car color to be violet. It occured to me that there is only one letter difference between violet and violent and I was starting to do deep breathing exercises so as not to add the "n" to the equation. Anyhow, there were a few tears shed because she didn't win a trophy. and the following conversation took place between Grandma and Kirsten.

G-"So how was the Grand Prix?"

K-"Not good, I didn't even win a trophy."(this was said in a very whiny voice.)
G-"Have you ever noticed that whenever we play Sorry or another game that there can only be one winner?"
K-"So, do you want to talk to Konrad?"

I guess she didn't want to talk about it. Konrad's car is a tank/hummer, it is his version of what Uncle Brad drives in Iraq. Kirsten's car is a giraffey violet colored car being driven by a giraffe queen. Kirsten has dressed her giraffe queen in a polka dot crown, violet and pearl necklace, along with a matching cape. I don't know, but it makes sense to her.

I've Returned From the Great Beyond

Kurt and I got back in town on Tuesday night. We had a great time and it was very relaxing. We enjoyed our adventure while throwing our money away at the penny slots and bingo. While in Vegas, we received coupons to see the Tournament of Kings(at Excalibur) at no charge. It's this jousting and sword fighting play and it was OK, but not worth the $55.00 dollars per person they charge. When we drove into Vegas we noticed Carrot Top was performing and we were able to get tickets at $40.00 per person, the show was 10X better than the Tournament of Kings and we didn't have to sit next to a gay couple. I had Kurt sit next to them because there was a women next to the other empty seat. They were nice guys and joked with them a little bit and I didn't realize they were gay until we were walking out of the show. Kurt said he figured it out pretty quick, He had his Gadar(gay radar) on. Whatever that means. Anyhow, Carrot Top was hillarious and we (especially Kurt) laughed the entire time. I bought a Carrot Top t-shirt and then Kurt and I had a discussion that I would like your input on. Here are the arguments and a picture of the graphic on the t-shirt.

Becky's Argument-
I like the t-shirt, mostly because I am a carrot top, myself. I have been called this name since at least 2nd grade, way before I had ever heard of the comedian Carrot Top. Shoot, he was probably still in middle school. I thought it was a pretty cool t-shirt for a red head to wear.

Kurt's Argument-
You know you can't wear that t-shirt to certain places and events, because everybody knows he does vulgar jokes.

So here is my question, if you see a red head wearing a Carrot Top t-shirt do you think of the comedian or the red head? Please let me know what you think!

My Wheels Are Spinning And I'm Not Moving

Sorry, I haven't posted in awhile. I am fighting sickness, finishing grand prix cars, sending out bridal shower invitations, getting an oil change, cleaning out the van, and attempting to finish my current real estate course. Of course I'm supposed to get all of this done today, because tomorrow morning is the grand prix and early Sunday morning Kurt and I are getting out of town for a few days to celebrate our anniversary.

I am so excited to be getting out of town for a couple days. It's hard to believe, but we've been married for 12 years. WOW!

I've Been Tagged

I was tagged by Sarah and I am kinda excited about it. I don't think I've been tagged before. At the same time I'm kinda nervous. You are about to find out what a boring person, I truly am. Well, here you have it....The exciting life of a Colorado Native.

4 Jobs you've had in your life:

1. Insurance Agent
2. Gift Wrapper
3. Soda Fountain Clerk
4. Candy Clerk (@Enstrom's)

4 Movies you watch over and over again:

(I don't really watch very many movies)

1. Any good sports movie(In all honesty, is doesn't really have to be very good at all.)
2. Anne of Green Gables
3. The Incredibles
4. Sorry, I'm out of answers

4 Places I have Lived:

1. I was born and raised in the town I currently live in.

4 Tv shows you love to watch:

1. American Idol
2. Amazing Race
3. CSI
4. Friends

4 Places you have been on vacation:

(I've never flown on an airplane)

1. Mexico, Tijuana
2. Yellowstone(Not recommended as the ideal family vacation for a teenager)
3. California
4. Mount Rushmore

4 Websites you visit daily:

1. Real Estate Training Center(I'm currently studying to get my real estate license)
2. Sarah's Sermons
3. Yahoo News
4. Singerzwife

4 Favorite foods:

1. Santorini Pizza(Nick and Willy's)
2. Mole Enchiladas
3. Good Chips and Good Salsa(Fiesta Guadalajara)
4. Chicken Enchilada Soup (Chili's)

4 Places you would rather be right now:

1. In a cabin on the mountains with my family, with no cell phone coverage, internet, or phone service.
2. At the beach
3. In Bed
4. At a spa-with a very expensive package already paid for.

4 People you tag to complete this:

1. Singerzwife
2. It's OK I'm with the Band
3. Knead the Dough
4. Bren>3 (You can use the comments section if you want.)

You Know It Is Going To Be An Interesting Day

When it is 9:00 am and you have already spanked your daughter twice, taken many deep breaths, counted to 5 atleast 10 times, rubbed her back 4 times(to calm her down), shown extreme mercy in the fact that she has only received two spankings, and prayed with her that God would take the bad ideas out of her head(This was her idea and she avoided a spanking with it). She is currently spending her second day cleaning her room, which means for everything we tell her to put away, she is getting out twice as many to play with. I'm guessing, that she will be spending tomorrow in her room as well. Unless, she decides to actually put her toys away. Don't worry Mom, I am not throwing her into her room and without giving her some direction. She is still working on picking her dress-up clothes from yesterday. And according to her it is not her fault, she can't get Sky High(We rented this movie for the kids to watch a month ago) or her bad ideas out of her brain. We can only guess as to what else is floating around in there.

? Giraffe Fairy Tale ?

As you can tell by the title, I will be talking about my daughter and her active imagination. I didn't even know you could put those three words together, let alone use them to describe something. Keep in mind, that along with her active imagination comes a very strong will that sometimes leads to plenty of discussing and explaining. Discussing and explaining things to a girl with an active imagination and strong will is like talking to a brick wall, that can discuss and explain things back to you. The only difference is that my discussing and explaining involves rational thoughts.

So, here's the story. On January 28th is our Awana Club's Grand Prix. The Grand Prix is race involving cars made from a block of wood(7"x 1 1/2" x 1 3/4") and the cars have to be made so as not to exceed cetrain dimensions(7" x 3" x 2 3/4") or weight (5 oz.). That being said you can, within those guidelines make your car look however you want. On the way home from Awana's last night I asked the kids what design they wanted their cars to look like. Kirsten pipes up right away, as is normal, and says she wants her car to look like a a giraffe fairy tale. Now, I'm not educated in princess, princess things, or anything involving pink. So, I ask, "What is a fairy tale?" I'm thinking, once I figure this out I'll be able to figure out how the giraffe fits in. She says, "You know Mom it is what princesses have." Correct me if I'm wrong, but don't princesses have a lot of things? Have you ever heard of any of them involving a giraffe? So I ask, "What do princesses do with a fairy tale?" She replies,"They ride in it to go the royal ball." Ah HA! She wants a carriage, but how does the giraffe fit in. I'm already thinking ahead to the height requirement that can't exceed 3 inches, giraffes have a tendency to be fairly tall. So I say, "The car can only be so tall and what about the giraffe?" She says,"Oh, I want the giraffe to ride in the fairy tale and I want her to be a ballerina princess. I want her to have a crown and wear a ballet thing and a cape." Seeing as we are almost home, it is bedtime, and most importantly I'm not ready for the discussing and explaining I see in my future. I tell her that she will have to draw a picture for me in the morning. So folks, Here you have it..... The Giraffe Fairy Tale.

After some discussing and explaining, she is still adamant that there be a giraffe pulling the fairy tale and that it be attached, either by string or by gluing its tail to it. Also, she will not even think about the possibility of being able to remove the giraffe and just racing the fairytale. As you can see I've got some more discussing and explaining in my future. Also, after some discussion it has been decided that it is called a fairy tale and not a carriage. What can I say, I'm saving my strength for future endeavors and she is very persuasive.

The Boys Are Out Of Town

So the boys left to go hunting this morning at 4:00 am. When I say boys I am including Konrad. Last time they went on one of these hunting trips Konrad came back very dirty and gross. He had helped them gut the elk(I guess that is what you call it?). This time he made sure to take his pocket knife that he received for Christmas so that he could be even more helpful than last time. Last night we packed his stuff and thanks to Christmas he was ready to go. He took his fanny pack with a water bottle, pocket knife, binoculars along with some snacks and orange vest to wear. He also brought along a tin of anchovies. That way if Uncle Troy or Uncle Cody wanted his snacks he would offer them the anchovies as a substitute to his dried apples. Kurt learned from last time and made sure to bring along some wipes to help clean him up. I sure hope those wipes are powerful along with some deodorizing powers.

So Kirsten and I are just hanging out and she is excited because she gets to eat a pepperoni pizza pocket for lunch. These have recently been added to the top of her list of things she will eat. Keep in mind, this is a very short list and we are always happy when we can add something to it. Lately, it has been a toss-up as to her favorite, it is between pizza Hot Pockets and ham and cheese sandwiches. It doesn't get more nutritious than that.

My Weekly Grounding and Pounding

Yesterday, I went to my weekly bible study. We are currently doing a study called "The Bait of Satan". It has been a great study and continually challenged me. Yesterday was no exception. One of the things we read was Psalm 35. As we were reading it I was thinking, "Yeah, that's how I have been feeling!" Now, I'm sure that when David wrote it he was probably facing more life and death situations than I am. After we were done reading it, the author and our leader pointed out Psalm 35:13-14. I was then convicted by that passage as well as a quote in the book. Even though I was praying for these people who have been offending me, I was not praying for them as I should. I wasn't praying for them as if they were close brothers or sisters that I truly love. I was not praying the very things for them that I want God to do for me. I guess you could say I was praying half-assed. So as usual, my weekly bible study was my weekly grounding and pounding experience.

Psalm 35:13-14 - But as for me, when they were sick, my clothing was sackcloth; I humbled myself with fasting; and my prayer would return to my own heart. I paced around as though he were my friend or brother; I bowed down heavily, as one who mourns for his mother.

And as I tell my kids...

you can only control yourself and your own actions. Therefore, I apologize to anyone I offended in my previous post ,please, forgive me. That doesn't mean that I don't feel that way and that everything is A-OK. It just means that I'm sorry it offended you, even if you needed to hear it. However, if this didn't pertain to you and I offended you I truly am sorry. Although, this might be a good time to do some soul searching. I know I have learned a lot about myself through this.

I have been and I am going to continue to pray about how I feel and for my family and friends.
I invite you to do the same. Sorry for my ranting and raving post. You know, every once in a while you have got to throw a curve ball it keeps 'em guessing.

I'm Tired

....of the lies and deceit that surround me. Everytime I turn around it seems that I am seeing another friend or relative pretending to be someone they are not. Sometimes they finally come out and admit it or they aren't as sneaky as they think or they are just fooling themselves. Whatever the reason, I'm supposed to act like I'm A-OK with everything and that the lying and deceit are perfectly accceptable behavior. They never apologize to me or my family for their actions. They just offer mounds and mounds of excuses and rationalizations that justify their behavior, if we even get that. Needless to say, I know I need to forgive them and I will in time. I know that I'm not a perfect human by any stretch of the imagination. I know that God has forgiven me for my junk and he will forgive them as well(if they ask for forgiveness, meaning they admit they have done wrong). Although, I really don't think that these individuals feel that what they have done or are doing now is wrong. Which means that while they continue to live their wonderfully perfect lives and lies. I'm stuck dealing with their lies and lives and trying to do this in a Godly manner. This is something I'm really struggling with. Partly because these lies and deceit are hurting people I care deeply about even if these same people are doing similar things to other people whom I care deeply about. Talk about a general lack of RESPECT. Since these people are such perfect Godly people you would think that they wouldn't be so quick to judge my parenting style, marriage, or children. Not all of us can attain such high of standards. Sometimes what works for one family, marriage, or relationship doesn't always work for another.

Lost in Translation, #2

I thought I had better post these little tidbits before I forget and they are forever forgotten in oblivion. Konrad has done it once again. Although this time I wondered if maybe he was onto something. I think there is a chance that he is a genuis.

It all started on the way home from the Vitamen Cottage. When he said, "He liked being able to push the cart at Vitamen College(Cottage)." After this comment I just swelled up with pride for my son. What a smart kid, I think as long as he has this attitude, his life can only be fulfilling. Oh, I have so much to teach him.

Then the other night at the dinner table the kids started singing songs from the Sound of Music. I don't know the exact title of the song(but I can spell Echinacea without looking it up and I know the uses for Kava Kava and Valerian Root). I think the song title might be So Long, Farewell. Anyway, it is the song the kids sing during the party for the governess right before they go to bed when they take turns exiting and they also sing it to set up their escape. Whatever the song is called Konrad was singing it like this,

"So long, farewell your waiter says goodnight."

This is where I think he might be onto something. I mean, just think, when you eat at a restaurant, at the end of your meal, instead of the waiter just coming over and handing you the check. They could deliver it with style and maybe a little dance would get them a bigger tip as well. They could sing this when they give you the check.

"So long, farewell your waiter says goodnight, I hate to see you leave, your total came to $34.95."

It's just an idea, but it would definetly be easier on the ears as opposed to that stupid birthday chant done military style at Texas Roadhouse. Although, if they sing like me it might be better if they just handed you the check. That way they don't risk losing their entire tip.

When is Christmas Break Over?

I know there are some of you teachers out there enjoying your Christmas break. I'm happy that you are getting some of your relaxing, rest, and reading in. However, you will be paying for it when those children return to school. If the rest of the children out there are like mine. You are in trouble (insert evil laugh here!!!). We have been doing more crafty activities and we even went hiking on the Monument. Still they have an abundance of energy. They are feeding off of each other. Konrad in particular is losing his mind. He just runs from the front door to the back door making weird boy noises and jumping periodically while carrying a stick, bat, or other strange stuff. After about a 1/2 hour of this I tell him "Go and find something else to do." He then interprets this as "Go and bug your sister." So... about 5-10 minutes later I start to hear high pitched wails and screaming. Upon investigating why I'm hearing what I'm hearing, I find out that Kirsten thinks she is hurt(She has no middle ground. She is either fine or near death.) from being tackled while playing football in the living room, or Konrad has taken the item she was playing with. Konrad then proceeds to act like she asked him to take this item and that he can't hear her screaming about it. Now in his defense, sometimes when she is screaming and wailing only dogs can hear her complaints. However, when we are able to hear her complaints so can anyone within a 100 yard radius. So, at this point I send them to their rooms because after going through this a few times I have realized that I am then guaranteed a few moments of peace and quiet. Atleast, until the cycle starts again.

I seriously thought about moving to a different county for one week because their school started on Monday. I'm starting to regret my decision.

Happy New Year!!!

I'm just spending the day contemplating life. Where I'm at, where I want to be. Setting some new goals and letting some things go. I don't really do resulutions, but I do think it is important to take some time and think about where you have been and where you are going. I'm prayng that God would give Kurt and I the wisdom we need; and that we would listen and heed it.

This is a quote that I have been drawn to lately. Most likely, because patience is usually a word I try to avoid. Enjoy!

Patience with others is love,
Patience with self is hope,
Patience with God is faith.

Adel Bestavros

I Thought This Was Funny!

I was going through my receipts from Christmas and I came across this one. I had bought a pair of jeans for Konrad and a pair of underwear for Kirsten. You have to read the descriptions for each item. Is MDS an abbreviation for merchandise? That would make the underwear-bikini, ass merchandise. I thought this was hillarious and it gave me a chuckle every time I thought about it. Enjoy!

Don't get into a tizzy because I bought my daughter bikini underwear. First off, on her the bikini cut still fits like briefs, the girl has no butt. Second off, I had trouble finding underwear for little girls that wasn't bikini cut. Trust me, this 'ol prude looked and compared to my other options these were a good choice.

Christmas Has Come and Gone

and now I'm sick. You gotta love life. I've been taking my Echinacea and Goldenroot, so hopefully I will curb this illness.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day was busy. The day after Christmas I got together with some old high school friends. I will start with Christmas Eve. It was a good day. We had Troy and Danielle over for breakfast, we let the kids open up one gift, and I received my gift from Kurt. Let me just say that Kurt usually sucks at buying gifts, if he even buys a gift. Not this year!!! I got diamond earrings, Baby!!!! I love them! Ok, enough celebrating. Anyhow, we went over to my father-in-laws house for appetizers. Apparently when they say appetizers they mean a meal. The food was good and the relatives were late and insensitive as usual. We are the only ones with children, atleast until August. Except for Troy and Danielle(I'm not just putting that in here because you read my blog Danielle), the rest of them are very insensitive to the fact that children have different needs than adults. We were supposed to start at around 7:00 pm and Kurt said we need to try to leave by 8:45 pm so that the kids get to bed at a decent time and get enough sleep so that they are not cranky beasts the next day. In typical fashion one of our relatives arrives an hour late and doesn't apologize or even try to offer a lame excuse(they told Kurt they were on their way at 7:00, while another relative confirmed they hadn't even left at 7:40). In fact one of these relatives said to me with a straight face, "Even though we'll be up late tonight. I'm sure everyone in my household will be up early tomorrow as well." I didn't pinch his head off, but I almost went after him verbally. The youngest person staying in that household was 25 years old. I would hope that when someone at the age of 25 years is cranky from lack of sleep thay can control themselves enough to not whine and cry about stupid stuff. You know kind of like my 5 year old acts when she hasn't gotten enough sleep. OK, enough venting of my frustrations. We opened gifts and Kurt's father and his wife spoiled my kids as usual. We had a good time even if we didn't leave until 9:30 pm.

Christmas Day was nice, except for the fact that Kurt was sick and he had to do sound at church that morning. The kids woke up fairly early around 6:30 and Konrad was in tears because his neck was bugging him. It was so bad that the rest of the day his neck was bent to the side and he couldn't move it. It put a bit of a damper on his Christmas, you could tell he was definetly in some pain. He was still able to enjoy his new Gameboy games though. Kirsten loved everything as is her nature, except the Sound of Music DVD. Konrad had gotten Charlie and the Chocolate Factory DVD so they both decided to trade each other and they were both happy with the trade. That afternoon, we went to my mother-in-laws for dinner and more gifts. We had a good time. Konrad received a pocket knife(which we OKed for a gift) and everytime we leave the house he asks if he can bring it. It is never far from his pocket. Kirsten received many artistic gifts and everytime she uses one she says, "Whoever got me this must have known I was an artist." And she is right. She also received a knitting machine and so far we have made two scarves, I say we because she can't do it by herself, yet. All in all, we had a pretty good Christmas, in spite of my attitude problem. I will blog more about the day after Christmas and other happenings this week tomorrow. What can I say it has been a busy week.

Christ-y Christmas

To quote Jim Carrey from the Conan O'Brien Show the other night-

"I hope you have a Christ-y, Christ-y, Christmas!"

I don't know if I will be able to post before Christmas, I hope you all have a Wonderful and relaxing Christmas.

Picture of the Lights

I took these pictures last night of the Christmas lights in the subdivision where we were caroling. I think these turned out pretty good and I had fun fooling around with my camera.

Finally, alone time

and I have to work and clean house! This is so my luck! My Mom and Keith took Kirsten home with them(up to Craig) for a few days. So that means that while Konrad is at school, I am all by myself. I can't remember the last time I didn't have someone wanting(more like demanding) my attention. The lack of interruption has been heavenly. I have actually completed a couple thoughts, although I still don't remember what they were. I am SO turning into my mother. Pretty soon I won't be able to remember where I parked or my children's names.

Anyhow it has been an eventful couple of days. My side of the family got together and celebrated Christmas, Konrad was baptised, Kurt baptised him, both kids were in a Christmas program at church, and we've attended two parties. We enjoyed ourselves at both parties, ate some good food, and tagged along for some caroling. I took pictures while the folks who can sing sounded beautiful(most graduated from college with vocal performance degrees).

The Christmas program was good. Kirsten had me laughing so hard that I was crying. The morning of the play she decided to wear her beek on her face instead of on her forehead as planned. It made the costume look better, except that when she went to say her line, she couldn't figure out where to put the microphone. She kept moving it around trying to figure out what to do, and the you heard her say,"uhh, uhh, my beek is in the way." So someone had to help her put the microphone in the beek. It looked like she ate half of it. She was supposed to say," I am just a little dove but I can plainly see a savior in a manger who will live eternally" and instead of saying eternally she said internally. It was so cute and I was so proud of her for how she handled herself. Those of you who know Kirsten, you know that when she gets flustered she tends to freak out and it isn't pretty. In fact it is pretty embarrasing for her mother.

I am including some pictures of Kirsten as a dove and the group of carolers.

High On Paint Fumes

So, it is 11:30 pm Friday night. I am waiting for paint to dry and my glue gun to warm up. I am working on Kirsten's dove costume for a Christmas play on Sunday and tomorrow is going to be busy so I need to get most of it done tonight. I just got done spray painting her beak and feet gold, like shiny gold glitter. I had to spray paint them in the kitchen, because we don't have a garage, it is to cold outside, and I don't want to wake Konrad up by going downstairs. Besides I don't think he should be smelling those fumes all night. So here I am getting high on paint fumes as I wait for it to dry.

She is going to be a dove that is all about the bling. We are using her angel dress-up dress that is white with gold glitter stars on it. To make it look right I am giving her a gold beak and feet. I hope it turns out OK. Wish me luck!

2 Times is Better Than One!

Konrad is planning on getting baptized on Sunday. I am way excited and proud, because he decided this on his own. Having said that, I was talking to him this morning about being baptized, why he wanted to do it, why it was important to him, and to make sure he understood the decision he was making.

"Why do you want to be baptized?"
"Because I want Jesus in me."
"Jesus in already in you"
"But I want him to be in my heart."
"You already asked Jesus to be in your heart. Do you remember when you prayed with me to make him the Lord and Savior of your life?"
"Yeah, but two times is better than one!"

Don't all of you legalist get to worrying your perfect little heads off. After further discussion, it became obvious he was confused as to the different terms between being saved and baptized(which is kinda hard for a 7 year old to distinguish between). He had just intertwined the two. He totally understood that he had already made the decision and prayed the prayer to make God the Lord and Savior of his life. He, also, understood the difference between that and of publicly showing his love and his desire to make God the Lord of his life; And the importance of doing so. After talking to him I am confident that he understands the decision he is making.

Anyhow, I just thought it was a cute quote. Keep in mind that this is the same kid who when asked the question "Hey, what's up?" answers "Good!" and he has been doing this for the last year.

Not Your Average Advent Calendar

We have this nice advent calendar hanging on our wall in the living room. It has 25 pockets, and we have 4 candy canes in each pocket and every day each one of us gets one candy cane. Up to day 14 is empty. Except for yesterday, I went into the living room and happened to glance at the calendar. Kirsten had put a lizard(from her lizard collection) into each of the empty pockets. All you could see was their heads and two front legs sticking out. It was pretty darn funny to look at and if you didn't know how we were doing the calendar you might have thought we took out a lizard every day. I just had to laugh and think, "What made her think that the lizards belonged in the pockets, or that the pockets needed a little something... hmmm... maybe my lizards."

Yes, my daughter has a stretchy lizard collection, doesn't yours? It started when she got a couple of those little stretchy lizards at Chuck E Cheese(satan's idea of a pizza joint, it probably is a lot of fun compared to hell). She then took a wire basket she had and put the lizards in their "cage". In their cage she put a little people bathtub, some plastic palm trees and a few rocks. One of the lizards got broken into half when she tried to put a polly pocket skirt on it. She was so upset over it, that Kurt went and bought her a bag of them for $.88. So now she has a bigger cage for all of her lizards that she keeps in her room. This is normal, right? OK, so maybe my daughter is a little bit weird. She gets that from Kurt, the stretchy lizard buyer.

Just when I think I'm Done

I was so proud of myself last night. I was all but done with my Christmas shopping and all but done with wrapping the gifts. Well, that fell apart at about 12:36 pm today. I had ordered a gift from ebay and they sent me the wrong thing. It was the right thing except that it was supposed to be new and was used. They gave me a refund which was great, except that now I have another gift to buy. I liked being done and now I'm not. I am bit pissed off and stressed about this. This gift was for my sister and my family is doing a gift exchange on Saturday. So I have 2 days to find the perfect gift. Sorry Brenda, better luck next year. Just Kidding.

Click N' Ship

Last night and today I have been getting most of my cards and packages into the mail. I was a little leary of using the postal service Click N' Ship, but it was awesome. You need a scale and mine only measures weight up to 5 lbs so I had to take one package to the post office. I had to go there anyway to mail something to my brother, because you have to fill out a customs form. I had to mail like 8 packages. I was able to pay for shipping and print most of the labels here at home. Then I taped the labels on, took them to a bulk mail place and dropped them off. I didn't have to wait in line and I could leave my daughter in the van. It was wonderful. I only have like 3 more to mail and I am going to try to keep them under 5 lbs. I love it when businesses figure out ways to make my life easier. To quote Alex "It's the bomb!"

Another Random Thought

This thought came to me while giving Kirsten a bath today.

"I love having a daughter with red hair. Now when there is red hair clogging the drain, on the soap, in the brush or comb, or in food; it doesn't neccesarily mean that it belongs to me. Whenever someone accuses my hair of being somewhere it shouldn't be, I can blame my daughter. When she starts shaving my plan will be complete."

"No Kurt, I didn't use your razor(you can insert many things here. For example soap, brush, Doritos, CD). I don't know who did. Maybe you should ask your daughter, you know I'm not the only one around here with red hair."(wink,wink)

Yeah, that's a good plan. Hopefully it will work.

See If I Share My Random Thoughts Again!!!

No, I haven't been to a lot of funerals, only a handful. I guess I'm just a sensitive gal, or more likely a weird gal with strange thoughts. After this, I'm am not using this new found talent on my blog anymore. However, I will answer the few people who have requested the use of my talent. Because I don't want you to think I made all this up, but if you piss me off I will be forced to chose "Ding, Dong The Witch is dead" and that wouldn't be appropriate. Keep in mind this is off the cuff. I have put zero effort into this.

DISCLAIMER: Due to the extreme sensitivity of this subject. I must bring to the peoples attention that we might not neccesarily agree with my choices. However, these choices aren't meant to offend or hurt anyones feelings. I can't beleive I'm doing this.

Becci- First off the easy choice is "Wish you were here" by Pink Floyd, "I am Free" by Five Face Down and depending on the cicumstances, I think Kurt Cobain has a good song that he sang on MTV Unplugged but I could be wrong about that.

Prudence-First off the easy choice is "I am Free" by Five Face Down(DUH), and that new song out by Natalie Grant, "Held", and I'm sure if I was forced to I could put a bit more effort into it and come up with a couple more.

Morbid Thoughts

It happened again this morning while I was listening to the radio. I heard a song, and about halfway through, I thought this would be a good song selection for ____'s funeral. Don't worry Mom, it wasn't you. I already have a couple picked out for yours. I don't know why I think these weird and morbid thoughts. They usually concern someone I care about a lot(bolded for Mom's benefit) and I would be very sad if I was ever in this situation. That being said, I've decided that I would be very good at picking out unique music to play at somebody's funeral. I told you it was morbid. I would, however, have to know them and this would call for some advance notice. Hey, I'm not psychic and the plan isn't perfect. So, unless there is a market I am not aware of, I'm afraid my newly discovered talent will have to go unused.

Now, I am aware that this is a weird thought, but if you all are honest with yourselves I'm sure you have equally strange thoughts. Maybe not as morbid though.

Do You Understand What I am Saying?

Yesterday, we finally got the tree up and decorated. Last year after Christmas I bought a new tree it is pre-lit and I LOVE IT. I was so excited as I got it out of the box. I knew I had already avoided one arguement. Well, there were more to follow and I am including my children in this as well. They couldn't listen to instructions if their life depended on it, and towards the end of the evening their lives almost did depend on it. The following was one of many one sided conversations we had.

"Now, this year we are going to make sure that we don't lose any pieces to our nativity."(it's a Playmobil Nativity-way cool. Would be even cooler if one of the wise men didn't have a hole in its head because we lost his hair.)

"Do you guys understand what I'm saying?" Wait for affirmation

"Ok, that means that this nativity stays on the coffee table. You do not move any of the pieces away from the coffee table. We are going to treat this nativity with respect. OK."

"Do you guys understand what I'm saying?" Wait for affirmation

"Good."

Not even an hour later, after refereeing a few arguments over the nativity, Kirsten has the angel flying around the living room, like a bird, and then leaves it on the couch. While Konrad has one of the wise men using his super powers against one of the other wise men. The wise man on the receiving end of the unknown super power is sent flying against the wall and onto the floor. Correct me if I'm wrong, but niether of these happens in the Bible, especially around Christ's birth. So the conversation continues...

"Did I not ask you to keep the nativity pieces on the table?"

Wait for affirmation

"If you guys do not respect the nativity I will take it away from you! Do you understand?"

Wait for affirmation

Immediatly after this conversation, it occurs to me that I just threatened to take Jesus away from them, even if only figuratively.

Played or Not, I Got Sick!

I got sick and so did Kirsten. Friday morning started with a mondo headache and shortly after I was praying to the Porcelian God. So I spend the morning spewing, sleeping, and answering Kirsten's 1 million questions(that is what it felt like). By noon I was feeling better and was getting myself some crackers to snack on. Why is it that since I've had children I only have goldfish crackers in the house? About that time, I hear from the livingroom, the sound of a geyser erupting. So I grab a bowl and run towards the noise. It was Kirsten and she was spewing as well, except she just laid there the whole time and spewed all over herself. It was gross and I think she her spew was getting 6-12 inches of air. So after giving her a bath and cleaning up the spew while gagging. I used towels like drop cloths so that if the spew geyser should erupt again it wouldn't get on the furniture or carpet. Needless to say she spewed a few more times. By the end of the day I had given her 2 more showers, Thrown her blanket and Piles into the washing machine twice, spot cleaned a few stuffed giraffes(she loves giraffes), and watched her giraffe documentary and Madagscar probably 5-6 times (I couldn't have planned the rental of that movie any better).

For those of you who don't know who Piles is. He is Super Piles her precious bear that wears a cape. He isn't in the best shape and every time we have to put him in the washer we get a bit nervous that he isn't going to make the journey. She developed a major liking to him after I had to take away her pacifier, when she was 6 months old. We were worried it might be contributing to why she wasn't gaining any weight. She instantly loved him and you could tell because she would suck on his nose for comfort. As my Grandma pointed out, "It is shaped like a breast." I would like to think that mine are at least a bit bigger than his nose, oh well. Eventually she went from sucking his nose to just rubbing it for comfort. As she says, "he has a tickle nose". In the last couple of years we haven't let her take it out of the house, but he is still in pretty bad shape. Below is a picture of Piles and his giraffe friends. Everyone is clean and feeling better now.


Pictured from left to right: Melman, Spot, Piles, Starlight, Lem, Analise, and Barbie. Piles is the only boy in this picture. And I'm supposed to tell you that Tinker(a stuffed Koala, Not Shown) is Piles Mom and Piles is a koala.

Mean, Being Played, or Brilliant?

So yesterday I pick the Konman up from school and he is kinda grabbing his belly. He says he doesn't feel well. So, naturally, I ask him what he ate for lunch "Just a cinnamon roll because they didn't have the kind of bean burrito I wanted." Being the indecisive mother I am, I can't decide if he is hungry (because he normally eats a ton) or sick. So I decide the best way to find out is to feed him something. At 6:30 last night he threw up. Then I can't decide if something he ate didn't sit well or if he has this awful flu thing that is going around. About that time the pizza arrives and he says he wants some so I tell him he can have 1 piece and some applesauce. Isn't pizza on the B.R.A.T. diet? After one piece the poor kid is starving so I let him have another piece. At bedtime his stomach starts to hurt again. I sent him to bed with a pitcher and he made it through the night. I fed him oatmeal for breakfast a bit earlier than normal, hoping to see how he reacted to it before I sent him to school. Everything seemed fine until right before we leave for school. Then the following conversation takes place.

"My stomach hurts."
"Like it was last night?"
"Yeah."
"Do you think you are going to throw up?"
"Yeah."
"Well, I can't send you to school if your sick."
"Oh, I was just kidding?"

After a few tears about not getting the perfect attendence award and "I said I was just kidding"
I told him I didn't know what to believe and I can't take a chance sending him to school. Then he was like OK and he's been playing just fine all morning. So I sent him downstairs to clean his room. I'm starting to feel like I've been played, by a 1st grader. I'd like to think I'm smarter than this. I mean if he can fool me now there is no hope of winning in the future. I can't decide if I'm mean for making him stay home and clean his room on a "sick" day, or if I've been played(by a 1st grader), or maybe I'm brilliant for figuring out I got played(if I did) and making him have no fun by cleaning his room. All in all, I think I'm putting way to much thought into this chess match and I need to save as much mental capacity as I can for the next one.

The pizza is on the way.

First off, sorry for not posting yesterday. Now that the holiday season is upon us and I'm slowly losing my mind I may not be able to post a blog every day. I can contend with one or the other, but when they team up it gets ugly in these parts. That is why the pizza is on the way.

Last night I was going to make Turkey Courdon Bleu Rolls, and just as I got started Kurt called and said we were going to Roosters for dinner. That place is such a mans eatery. I thought, "No problem, I'll just make this for dinner tomorrow night." Anyhow, I fed Kirsten and I so that we could just get something to snack on, because all they serve is wings and other man food while charging way to much. I made sure I put everything I was cooking away, that the kids had their coats on and we headed out the door. We had a good time hanging out with family, and I took the kids by to see Nanny Glenda's new finches. Ironically their breed is called courdon bleu. Life went on as normal or so I thought. I went to start cooking dinner tonight and I had left the turkey in the microwave after I defrosted it. I was already long overdue for a grocery shopping trip and I had no back up dish. The stupid thing is that I thought, no I was sure, I had put it in the fridge last night. I hate it when I do stuff like that! Therefore we ordered pizza. This is a new recipe that I've been wanting to try and I will have to tell you how it turns out, hopefully soon.

Highschool Memory

This video reminds me of this time in highschool when my friends and I snuck into the school office. We started copying body parts(like hands, feet, and heads. Sorry perverts, no action here!) Well, anyway after a few copies, the copier jammed real bad and we couldn't get our copy out. We got caught because I have monkey toes and my own Mom identified me. Can you believe it! That is how bad my luck is first off that my Mom happened to find out about it and then she rats me out. Lets just say detention sucks!

http://gvod.blogspot.com/2005/11/fat-ass-thin-glass-of-copy-machine.html

I'm Glad I Don't Live Next To This Guy

My sister emailed this to me. It's pretty wild.

This is a real house – The man who lives here is a computer programmer…

http://members.cox.net/transam57/lights.wmv

I'm Back

I'm back and we had a good Thanksgiving. It went better than usual and I am thankful for that. We ate dinner at my Auntie Brenda's house(she's British). There were 24 of us crowded around the tables. After dinner we took a nice walk, played family feud, and had a ping pong tournament. My uncle Jess and I took 3rd, I was pretty pleased with that result considering the fact that my eye hand coordination sucked and we fought our way back through the losers bracket. My sister and her fiance took 1st and we had to talk them into playing. So if we hadn't convinced them to play we would have taken 2nd!

On Friday we did a little bit of after Thanksgiving shopping, it didn't take to long considering there is only a Kmart and a few stores downtown. After that we went bowling. I sucked!!!! Kirsten almost beat me with no gutter bumpers. I only had like 5 points in the 5th frame. It was miserable. On Saturday we played poker and I took 2nd. Not Bad.

All in all I had a good weekend and even Kurt enjoyed himself. The kids had a great time. We go up to Craig every other year and this year was extra nice, because I am no longer the only one with young children. In fact, my cousins have toddlers. Now that my children have grown up a bit I didn't have to worry about watching them non-stop as thay ran through my aunt's house doing who knows what. It was a much more relaxing time.

Joke for the Day

This made me laugh!

Two Irish nuns have just arrived in USA by boat and one says to the other, "I hear that the people in this country actually eat dogs." "Odd," her companion replies, "but if we shall live in America, we might as well do as the Americans do." Nodding emphatically, the mother superior points to a hot dog vendor and they both walk towards the cart. "Two dogs, please," says one. The vendor is only too pleased to oblige and he wraps both hot dogs in foil and hands them over the counter. Excited, the nuns hurry over to a bench and begin to unwrap their "dogs."

The mother superior is first to open hers. She begins to blush and then, staring at it for a moment, leans over to the other nun and whispers cautiously: "What part did you get?

The Guilt Compromise

So, guilt and I had a discussion and came up with a compromise. Kurt and I would go on our date and show up for the last 20-30 minutes of Family Night. As we walked in the door it became obvious that very few families had joined their kids for the evening. Apparently none of the other parents wanted to join "The Big Happy Family Cookie Jubilee".

Tomorrow our family is heading up to Craig for Thanksgiving, the town of little excitement. As the oil changer guy put it, "Craig is a great place to be from, but not many people stay." My Mom is already making plans for us to visit the new bowling alley. The old one only had like 5 lanes. Most of my side of the family will be there, except for my favorite aunt's family. Keep in mind that I come from a family full of ranchers, rednecks, hippies and yuppies. And some of them are married to each other. Unless my Mom and sister have shared my blog address with any of them, or I piss them of and they give it to them to get back at me(just kidding, I hope!). I should have a few cynical, sarcarstic, and hopefully fun stories to tell. You all can just pray right now that only the fun ones involve my children. I know I'm praying for that.

The Faux Martha Stewart

So tonight is Family Night for Awana's so I have to bring 2 dozen cookies to share. Since I have 2 children I have to bring 4 dozen cookies. But I'm not going to the saga begins...
When I went to the grocery store to buy some pre made goodies, I had a revelation out of guilt. During family night the parents are supposed to join the cookie jubilee and everyone is supposed to be one big happy family. Well, neither Kurt nor I want to go. We don't want to experience the big happy family cookie jubilee. You see normally after we drop the kids off. We go on a date. That means if we drop them of a bit early we get 1 hour and 45 min of nice dinner and conversation(as long as Monday Night Football isn't on). So unless guilt wins us(mostly me) over we are going to drop the kids off and enjoy our evening. So that brings me back to my guilt ridden revelation; Since I don't want to be judged as the bad mother, who didn't care enough about her children to even show up and bought the pre-made goodies as a side note. As I walked into the grocery store, right after I resisted the urge to buy a sugar-free hazelnut latte... uh make it a venti, I decided that I could buy the pre-made cookie dough instead. I would then cook the cookies and send them with the kids all the while pretending to be Martha Stewart. So the saga continues...

While I'm baking the first batch I notice that they are going to be perfectly round with a bit of a cicular ridge on the top. I'm not going to fool anyone! Then I slightly burn the first batch. The second batch comes out nicely, atleast thet looked good until the pan slipped out of my hand and all the cookies slid into the drawer underneath the oven. Then it occurs to me that if I truly wanted to fool people I shouldn't have gotten the smores and reese pieces variety. Oh well, I guess I will be sending my children with only 28 great tasting cookies tonight so they won't be cookie-less, just family-less. Unless my guilt wins.

One Week Until Thankgiving

Here's a little something to help you get in a Thanksgiving kind of mood!

http://www.msn.americangreetings.com/view.pd?i=382219626&m=1652&rr=y&sou

"This is my style"

Quotes from the Kirstenator-

"Maybe we should get some eggs, so that we can get ready for Easter." - This was said today at the grocery store.

"Do you think Dad could build a big enough fence for a pet giraffe?"

"Kirsten how would you like me to fix your hair today?"
"Oh, just blonde." - She has red hair!

Kirsten, you wore that outfit yesterday and it is dirty. You can not wear it again today."
"Yes, I can."
"No, you can't."
"Yes, I can and no tag backs."

"But if Konrad gets married to Morgan then he won't be able to marry me." This was followed by yet another discussion about how brothers and sisters don't marry each other it is against the law. This was yet another discussion on this matter in which I was told "but Mom, you don't understand."

"This is my style" - She declared this upon looking at a pair of shiny hot pink shoes. After she tried to get me to try on a pair of orange and giraffe print shoes, earlier that day, and I told her that they weren't my style.

That DANG Tooth Fairy!!!

The Tooth Fairy has done it again, she has pissed me off. I am starting to think that she either has Alzheimer’s or maybe she is just plain lazy. First, there was the time that Konrad lost his lost tooth (for the 2nd time) and she didn't leave him anything except for a note. Second, last night he left his tooth under his pillow, just as she asks every child to do. Either she was to busy, got the flu, had trouble making it to this area due to the big snow storm in the mountains, OR she forgot about him. Because when he woke up this morning there was nothing under his pillow, except for the tooth he had left for her. I'm hoping she will be able to explain how this could have happened to my son. I have never heard of this happening to anyone else's children. In fact if I knew how, I would file a complaint and demand she be replaced. Hopefully, by a harder working more organized fairy who doesn't take her job for granted. Now I understand that she has a very demanding job, but I expect better than this and I think I am justified in doing so. The following is the note she left the first time. I believe you will see my point...

------------------------------------------

09-02-2005

Konrad,

I am sorry to hear that you have misplaced your tooth. I’m always happy when I am told that you have lost another tooth and that I need to collect it. Your teeth sell at above market prices and that is good business for me. Unfortunately, the freshly lost teeth are the only teeth worth anything these days. I am sure you can guess as to why that is. My, my, my, how things have changed, there used to be a day when even the unfresh teeth were worth money. So, I guess I had better just go ahead and tell you the bad news. If I do not find your tooth under your pillow tomorrow night I won’t be able to pay you the usual amount. Because, you see, I will be in the area again tomorrow night and I do not mind swinging by to see if you have a treasure for me. However, it might be awhile before I’m in this area again and business is about to get pretty busy in England (for the next couple of weeks anyway). So, if you find your tooth put it under your pillow and whenever I’m in this area I will swing by and see if you have found it. Just remember the sooner I get your tooth the more I will be able to pay you for it.
Well, until we do business again!

The Tooth Fairy

?Karma?

I am starting to wonder about this Karma theory. Today, at work, Kirsten was patting my leg saying "Mom, Mom, Mom, Mom, Mom, Mom, Mom, Mom, Mom." and as I said "yes" I bent down to her level so that she would feel heard.(You know like all those professional people in the parenting articles tell you to do) Well, at that moment she decides to jump and SMACK! Her head hits my bottom lip and my tooth takes a small chunk out of it. (I have a few words I would like to share with those professionals!) Well, while I was cleaning myself up, one of my co-workers was leaving. And as she put her bag on her shoulder she hit Kirsten and gave her a bloody lip, just a small one that you could barely see. As guilty as it makes me feel, especially to admit it. While I was taking care of her, I was smiling a bit on the inside.

But then again if there is something to this Karma theory, especially if it includes your thoughts. I could be in big trouble. I think I'll stick with the GOD theory. You know that one where God sent his son to earth to die on the cross and forgives us from all of our sins. I chose life.

Honey, I'm Home

That is what a bee says when he comes home. Sorry for the lame joke, it can be heard around our house quite a bit.

I've returned from my trip to Denver and I had a great time. Even though we got snowed on coming and going. I hate traveling over the mountains when it is snowing. The highlight of the trip was that we got to see my sister-in-law, Tina, for most of the day Saturday. She is doing well and is anxiously awaiting my brothers return home. Once he returns home he is leaving the Navy life behind and they are moving to Colorado, so we will get to see them more often. YAY!!! We got to do some visiting and shopping, including a bead store. There wasn't a huge selection of gemstone beads, but they had a wall full of little cannisters filled with assorted small plastic beads. These small beads were perfect for Kirsten to make a necklace and a perfect way to spend some down time. The good thing about plastic beads is that they are very inexpensive, so if she loses this necklace it won't be a big deal. Unlike some of the other necklaces My Mom and I have made for her. They are made out of gemstone beads, although we did get a good deal on the beads.

I was also able to find some good deals on some much needed items. Like a new pair of tennis shoes and winter coat. My new tennis shoes felt really cushy. I think it was because my old ones were about 5 years old and worn out, the rubber on the soles was starting to peel off. I found my new ones(Reebok's) on clearance for $16.00 and I found a Columbia coat on sale for $70.00 along with the cutest matching hat. I'll try to post pictures of me in my new coat and hat. I really like the colors! It is a long story on why I needed a new coat. Let's just say I'm not allowed to loan any part of this one out to anyone, no matter how well I know them. Period. End of story. Then we found an Old Navy and all items on clearance were an additional 50% of the lowest marked price. We are talking T-shirts for Kurt at $1.50, Khakis for me at $5.99, and clothes for the kids from $1.50-$3.00. I was in heaven and it was blissful. I guess you can tell that I like a good bargain and that I also like telling everybody else about them. God definitly blessed me with a good time this week.

Although, Kirsten was in rare form. Well, maybe not all that rare, just on steroids. Mostly because she was tired and worn out. At 10:30 Friday night she was still jumping between the two beds at the HO-IN-TEL(hotel) and she woke up at the butt crack of dawn the next morning. I don't even think the sun was up, yet. I know I was tired and I'm sure she was too.

All in all, we had a good time and enjoyed visiting with Tina. If I could change anything we would have went to Old Navy sooner and got even more great deals.

Road Trip

I am so excited. Tomorrow Kirsten, my Mom, and I are heading to Denver to see my sister-in-law, Tina. She is married to my brother, Brad, who is over in Iraq with the Navy. He has been over there for about 3 1/2 months and he has about 3 1/2 to go. Last time he had to go to Iraq, my sister, mom, and I met her in Denver for some fun girl time. I am excited to do this again, unfortunatly my sister is unable to join us. I hope to get some Christmas shopping done and maybe visit a bead store. I only get to see her about once a year since she lives so far away and I always enjoy our visits. We are leaving tomorrow and we praying for storm free weather. Talk to you later.

Lost in Translation

The Konman has done it again! I don't know about you but all I can do is laugh. Where does he get this stuff from?

When I was helping at his school on Monday the Librarian told me that he sang his song(from talent day) for her. When I asked him to sing the song he sang to her, he told me there were actully two songs. The first one was Higher and the second one was Face Down. He knew the lyrics to Higher, but was a bit confused on the lyrics to Face Down. They are supposed to go, "Face down is the way I hope you find me, not dead, but in living prayer to you father" --
He sang it like this, "Face down is the way I want my body, not all together but da da da da"
Just a slightly more gruesome version. I'm sure the librarian was wondering how we spend our free time.

This is the same child who instead of singing "Nothing but the blood of Jesus". Was singing "Nothing but the butt of Jesus". Just one word can make such a difference! There is another song that goes "Real Jesus consume me, consume me" and he was singing "Real Jesus atchoo me, achoo me". It's a good thing that God knows what is truly in our hearts and where we are coming from.

The best one was when he was helping put up a tent and he hit his thumb with a hammer on the meat nail(tent stake). That one still cracks us up today and has forever changed our family's vocabulary. That is in part because we had trouble keeping a straight face and never corrected him, until 2 years later, when my sister took pity on him and explained to him what it was really called.

These just scratch the surface, and unfortunatly I can't remember all of them. So if there is another one that you think is funny, please, remind me by posting it in comments.

Ebay Fun

My sister sent me this in an email and I thought some of you might enjoy it! Especially you Rock N' Roll wives. This is Great!

Make sure to read the description and the questions at the bottom.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=8335653541&ru=http:%20/%25

.... "In Bed."

A friend once told us that the best way to read fortune cookies is to end them with "in bed". We went to a chinese restaurant this weekend and I thought I would share some of our fortunes with you. These are not as good as we usually get, but still kinda funny.

• Try it, you may like it (in bed).
• All your hard work will soon be paid off (in bed).
• The only way to have a friend is to be one (in bed).
• A merry heart does good like a medicine (in bed).
• Wish you a good journey (in bed).

Low Key and Lovin' It!

Today has been pretty low key and I'm lovin' it. Atleast that is what I was thinking until I thought of what I did today.

• I got back on the wagon and met Laura at the gym at 5:20 am
• Got the Konman man to school even if I let him wear highwater jeans beacause he's grown so much.
• I went to The Great Harvest Bread Company in hopes of seeing Jen Q. at her new job. No luck, but I did get day old pumkin and choc. chip bread for half price.
• Well, since I was so close I had to check out Michael's. Wow, I left without buying anything. Does anyone know where I can buy color pencils with a brush on one end that you can dip into water and paint with? The Kirsten-ator would love these and I met a lady who says they are Crayola brand and she has bought them before.
• Got measured and paid for the bridesmaid's dress for my sister wedding. Can you believe $160.00? I swear the wedding market is making bank and every year they get worse.
• Cleaned the house.
• Almost lost Spike, Kirsten's beta fish, down the drain. I was cleaning out his water, I let my guard down as I was pouring the water out, and out he came. Luckily I was using the side of the kitchen sink without the disposal. Although, I kind of freaked and Kurt had to pick him up and put him back in his bowl. He was in a precarious spot if you picked him up the wrong way he would go down the drain.
• Went and helped with Konman's class at school.
• Worked with the kids on their Awana verses.
• Took a 30 minute nap. It was glorious!
• and I need to start worrying about dinner, soon.

I got a lot accomplished, and in the end it was a very low-key day that I plan on enjoying until I go to sleep tonight.

Such a Little Man

From the day Konrad was born we have called him our Little Mr. or Little Man. Sometimes he just says or does things beyond his years, not all of them good. Sometimes they are just precious or they give us a glimpse of who he is going to become. Yesterday was no different. There was a talent day at his school, so during music class they could do a special presentation if they wanted. Nolan brought his guitar and played the strings, Kahnita played her princess keyboard, Conn played a recorder, Morgan(his girlfriend) played her violin, and Konrad sang a rock song -Higher by Five Face Down. When I asked him how it went he said, "Real good. They were like you would be for Rock n' Roll, you know" as he said this he was bobbing his head like the teenage boys do at a Five Face Down concert. It was hillarious and yet at the same time he so reminded me of his Uncle Troy.

A conversation overheard concerning Morgan, the girlfriend. Keep in mind he is only 7, in 1st grade and this was a very serious conversation for him.

"So, who is morgan?"

Oh, She's my girlfriend."

"Oooh, Your girlfriend. So are you going to marry her?"

"Well, that's the plan."

Hoping for a Smooth Ride Today

And hopefully a bit more uplifting! Before I go any further I just need to say, "Thank You Sarah!" I need to think twice before venting on this blog.

There is no school today. I think that this is like the 10th day they have had off of school this year. As Kurt said to me the other night "I don't remember having this many days off of school." Of course we don't, when we were in school we couldn't get enough days off of school. I remember looking ahead to see when our next day off was. Although I have to admit it has been nice this morning. We haven't had our usual rushing around panic hurry or we are going to be late ritual. Trust me it is quite the rollercoaster we ride every morning. Just the other day I thought everything was under control, things were going good and I say "Time to go" and Konrad pipes up and says, "Kirsten isn't dressed yet!" ....So the ride begins!

Well, I got to go. I work at noon and with any luck it will be a smooth ride for us.

Just to Clarify

When I started this blog my husband, Kurt, said "Oh, great now you can tell everyone how bad of a person I am." Of everything I've written in the past none of it pertains to him. If he is the one making me buttsore, I just yell at him to get if off of my chest. If I'm ever referring to him, trust me you will know!

Also, I got a raise at work! Now I only make $1.00 (or more) less that the other departments at work. Just to clarify it was an $.85 raise which is way more than I expected and I appreciated knowing they appreciated me. Atleast that is what they told me. Oh, my supervisor rocks and has been fighting an uphill battle to get us the recognition we deserve. After my little venting session I'm feeling better and I will try to keep things more upbeat(most of the time). Thank you for reading.

Beading Block

I don't know if there is such a thing, but if there is I had it last night. I had bought some new beads and I finally had a chance to get my beading stuff out. So there I sat at the table last night just staring at my stuff trying to figure out what I wanted to make and I couldn't visualize or create anything. I even thought I'll just make a simple pair of earrings with some cool shaped black beads I had just bought. I still couldn't come up with any thing. It was very frustrating. I think part of the problem is that I'm being to stingy with my beads. I don't want to use them all at once because I might come up with a better idea(or in this case an idea) and I will have already used my precious beads. My precious, my precious, I'm starting to sound like that freaky guy from Lord of the Rings. Hopefully, I'll have a brain blast and I will come up with something awesome. Or maybe I'll just ask my sister-in-law and use her creative juices to my benefit.

All Dressed Up, Still???

Yes, my prediction was correct and we still have a giraffe hanging around the house today. Atleast, she isn't wearing the mask anymore. She can hardly see out of it and ran into a bunch of stuff at Sam's yesterday. We couldn't help but laugh at her last night because she kept running into things; for example bushes, walls, steps, and almost a pole. As she put it "Everything is in my way." and this time she was right. The funniest thing was when she would tell Kyle or Vaeh that they could follow her and she would show them the way with her flashlight. Talk about having a blind leader. And they were great because they would grab her hand and follow her. It was cute! Konrad thoroughly enjoyed being Jack Sparrow last night and I didn't even have to take the sword away. Although there were threats. He looked great. It was so weird to see my 7 year-old son with facial hair. He looked like such a man!

We went Trick or Treating with my Ben(Brenda),her fiance and his two children, Kyle and Vaeh, last night. I had a great time hanging out with my sister and enjoying the kids. The kids kept cracking us up. Kyle was a train conductor and he would tell people he was Kyle the train conductor. Vaeh was a ballerina and a very tired one by the end of it all. They are both great kids.

I really enjoyed hanging out with my sister last night. It has been a long year for both of us and I feel like we are getting to know each other again. I think we have both grown a lot in different ways and I think the growth has been good for both of us. I know it has for me. I am looking forward to more and even better times than last night.

Pictures of Jack Sparrow and a giraffe that hung out with us on Halloween- a.k.a. Konrad and Kirsten all dressed up!