Addicted to Pinterest!

I have a new addiction -- well it's actually not so new -- it's been about 7 or 8 months for me but is just really catching on now -- it's called Pinterest!  If you have never heard of Pinterest or have but aren't familiar with it, just think of it as a virtual bulletin board.  In the real world, when we find something we like - a picture, an idea, a project, we would "pin" it to our bulletin board.  Pinterst is just that but in the virtual world.  People from all over, publish links to the millions and millions of things found on the internet.  On Pinterest, these items are known as "Pins".  So when you see the thumbnail picture of an item, you can repin it to your virtual pin board and reference it later.  You can create as many boards as you like and categorize them however you like.  I have about 8-10 Boards and around 1800 pins.  So if I ever decide to get around to creating something I have seen on Pinterest, I go to the Board I want and search all my pins until I find the one little thumbnail picture that I want.  I click the picture and it takes me directly to the link on the internet where this item can be found. It's amazing and sooooo addicting!  I have the app on my iphone and get on Pinterest a few times a day searching for new pins.  I love to be creative.  The only problem is you get all these pins and think "one day I will make that" but in reality not sure you could ever get through them all.  So, my sister and Aunt and I decided to have a Pinterest Craft Day once a month!  We pick a date and a project and get together to CREATE!!  We got together last Sunday and each of us decided to make a wreath.  Liz and my Aunt made their's out of this deco mesh material -- they came out really cool!  Liz did one for St. Pat's Day and Aunt Debbie did hers for Easter.  I will definitely have to try that one next time.  I made an Easter wreath.  For my project, I actually took ideas from a few different projects and put them together.  This is what I came up with!

A fluffy Easter Bunny wreath!  (Sorry it's sideways, I tried to turn it around).  I used wreath forms and wrapped boas around each.  I added a little bow tie with eggs on it and added the ears from these silver sticks.  I have a few more embellishments to add -- I want to do a fluffy tail and I have some glittery eggs and a "Happy Easter" sign to attach!  Overall, I think its cute!  Not my favorite but it was a lot of fun getting together and crafting with two of my favorite people!!  Can't wait for our next Pinterest Crafting Day!!  So fun!

Meet Molly

Meet Molly!!  After losing Maggie (our 14 year old German Shepherd) in September, we felt like our home/family was missing something.  We missed Maggie terribly and started talking about getting another dog!  We started looking around Christmas thinking it would be a great gift for the kids.  But nothing panned out.  Then, I saw Molly and knew immediately that she was the one and that I wanted her!!  We believe that Maggie had a hand in helping us find her!! 

Molly was added to the Morgan family on December 28, 2011.  She was born on November 1, 2011 and is a Shepherd mix.  We rescued her or in an essence, she rescued us!!  Since we got Molly, she has doubled in size!  Her legs are getting long and her ears are close to standing on their own.  She is all puppy -- loves to chew on everything especially shoes, earbuds for Olivia's iPod, paper -- anything she can get her little paws on!!  This week, we introduced Molly to Frosty Paws!  If you have never heard of these, it's basically ice cream for dogs and is even found in the ice cream isle at the store!  She absolutely loved it!!  However that doesn't surprise me!  Molly LOVES to eat!  She acts like we never feed her LOL!!  She is pretty well potty-trained but still has accidents.  She takes Olivia to the bus every day and loves it!  When Molly and Jimmy walk home from the bus stop, Molly grabs the leash in her mouth and "walks" Jimmy home!!  This is the cutest thing you have ever seen!  She is not a fan of car rides but does real well if taken for one.  I love coming home and getting a huge greeting from her!  If you have never experienced a pet welcoming you home, it's pretty awesome!!  Almost as good as when you come home to your kiddos -- however on most days, my kiddos barely muster a "hello, Mom" when I come home, LOL!!  We love you Molly!!!

Transition

I guess you can say that for the past year, I have been transitioning.  I have been on a journey that I would not wish on anyone yet, it is my life.  Over the last several years, I have been asking God to bring peace into my life.  I have begun to realize that I am the only one who can give me that peace.  Each day is a struggle and some days my head just feels like it is going to explode but I just keep telling myself that it will all be OK.  I truly believe that eventually, all will be OK.  I have learned so much over the last year and I am so grateful for the experiences that have brought me to the place I am today.  I still have a long way to go but I feel that things are finally turning around and that the peace I have been searching for is within my reach.

I am not only trying to transition my mind and soul but also my body.  For too long, I have lived in a body that I did not treat well.  I made a promise to myself that come my 40th birthday this year, I would be FIT and FABULOUS!!   I started going to the Y and tried doing things on my own.  Of course, I am not good with that and that did not bring me any success.  A friend of mine posted on Facebook about going to a trainer -- I checked into it and thought really hard about it.  However, the cost was a little steep.  Well, with Jimmy working at Outback now as a Server, the money wasn't as big of an issue as before so I took the plunge one day and signed up for a free week trial.  I knew after the 1st night that it was exactly what I was looking for.  I completed my first week trial and signed up officially on Wednesday night.  On Saturday, I will incorporate the food changes and my new transition will begin.  I still have a long way to go mentally with the changes I want to make to my body but I think I can do this.  I have had to give myself a pep talk about this journey...since I am going on a cruise in April, I had to tell myself that it is OK that my body won't be perfect and quit worrying that I was going to be an embarrassment to my Mom.  This is my journey.  This is about ME and doing what is best for me (something I have never been done before).  I am going to give it my all and am hoping for once and for all to concur this demon and transition myself into someone I LOVE!! 

First Day of School 2011

Yesterday, August 16th marked the first day of 7th grade for Alex and 1st grade for Olivia.  Last Thursday, Olivia got to meet her teacher and take her supplies up to school.  I am really excited about the teacher Olivia got this year.  I think she will do great.  Olivia is at a new school this year but she can't be more excited.  Last year, Olivia went to Truman due to Crestwood not having any openings for full day Kindergarten.  So this year she is at Crestwood, the school within our boundaries.  Alex gets to go to the new middle school - Truman.  They turned the Truman Elementary into a Truman Middle School so now there are 2 middle schools.  His friends are going to Truman too so he is pretty happy.  Monday, we got to walk the halls of Truman MS so he could find out where his classes are.  This is very important to Alex. He has a hard time just going with the flow.  He has to know specifics about what he has to do, what's expected of him, etc.  He gets very nervous if he has to do something that isn't prepared for.  We saw Lori while we were there and she told him what hallways had what numbers so I know that helped him as well.  I am so happy that we get to see Lori again this year.  I loved having her so closely connected with the kids. 

So Monday night, the kids took their showers and went to bed real easy.  Alex said he wasn't ready to go back to school but I secretly think he was excited to be with his friends and not hanging out at home so much during the day.  Olivia was beyond ecstatic and couldn't wait.  I could believe how easy they went to bed and than on top of it, both of them woke up so easily!  I was pinching myself thinking how could this get any better.  There was no yelling, no running around last minute, it was perfect. 

Since Alex was the first one up and out the door - really, school starts at 7:40 am - who is functioning this early?  Here are his obligatory first day of school pics:

Seriously, where did the time go?  I keep thinking of my baby boy on his first day of preschool at Sacred Heart Villa.  He was 3.  I remember holding him with tears streaming down my face as I was saying good-bye.  The lady there asked me if this was my first time leaving him and through the tears I said "no, he's been in daycare since he was 3 months old."  LOL!  I laugh at this now but I am sure she thought I was a whacko.  Ok, so sue me, I get emotional when it comes to my kids.  So here he is, looking so grown up.  I love this kid so much!!  He is such a great kid.  He does really well in school and really does love to learn.  Here's to a great year buddy!

After Alex was out the door, I started getting myself ready for work and then woke Olivia up.  She got herself dressed and ready to go.  When we went downstairs, I had packed her lunch in her "old" lunchbox.  She didn't like that and wanted to use her new lunchbox from Aunt Debbie.  So we had to transfer everything.  No biggie but this "new" lunchbox is so big!!  This is the first year Olivia will be riding the school bus.  Last year since she went to a school outside of our boundary, we had to take and pick her up every day.  (Thanks to Lori for all the times she brought Olivia home!)  So Olivia was beyond excited to be riding the bus.  She wanted to ride the bus there and then have me meet her there to walk her to her classroom.  So I was happy to oblige.  Here are Olivia's first day pics:

Now here are her pics getting on the school bus!!  Seriously!!  She is too little, my heart was screaming.  But I knew in my mind this was only the beginning to letting her grow up.  She has the nicest bus driver too which just makes it a little more easy on me. 

She went right on up and took a seat and promptly gave me a smile and a wave!  I was seriously fighting the tears at this point.  I walked back to my car and drove up to school to wait for her to arrive.  Finally her bus got there and she got off and ran right up to me!  We quickly walked to her room and she walked right in...and forgot all about me!  LOL!!  She is my fearless one.  She doesn't get nervous to try something new and unfamiliar. She went right in and took her seat.  I tried to get her attention to say goodbye but realized this was what I wanted...for her to feel safe and happy.  So I left. 

I thought about the both of them all day.  Alex knew he could count on Lori if he needed help so I was ok there.  I prayed all morning that Olivia would have a good day.  She had 3 months to acquire some bad habits. LOL!  I left work early so that I could meet Olivia's bus.  As soon as I saw that bus, my heart just leapt with joy!  She quickly got off and said she had a great day!!  As a treat, I took the kids to Lion's Choice for their dip cones.  If you have never had a Lion's Choice dip cone, I suggest you run right now and get one.  They are so good and so cheap!! 

So overall, both kids had fantastic first days!  I really do love the Lindbergh School District. So here's to a great year for kiddos!! 

Girl's Night!

Last Friday night, Alex spent the night at his friend's.  Whenever it's just me and Liv she wants to have a Girl's Night.  We always try to find something fun to do on Girl's Night.  Right before I left for home that day, I had gotten an email from Groupon reminding me to go use my Groupon for Baked Goods Pottery.  It's a place close to home where we can go and paint pottery.  Olivia is all about anything that has to do with crafting.  So this was a perfect Girl's Night. 

We arrived at Baked Goods Pottery and browsed their many shelves for something to paint.  At first, I was just going to let Olivia paint and I would watch but she wanted me to paint too.  So she found a butterfly and I found the letter O.  The girl explained all about the different paints to use and we got our table and started painting. 

This was so much fun!!  Olivia had a blast painting her butterfly.  And she did a great job too. 

So intense!  Then she spotted the aprons and wanted to put one on.

Here is her butterfly with a face.

And her finished butterfly!  Such a great job!

Here is my "O" for Olivia.  I painted it in an orange - her favorite color!

And my finished "O"!

We had to leave them there for them to put in the kiln.  We get to go back in 10 days and pick them up.  I cannot wait to see what they look like!  Olivia is so ready to go back and paint again.  She asked me on both Sunday and Monday if we could go back to paint.  We picked up a mug so that Alex could paint the next time too and Olivia picked out a tiny telephone.  I am so looking forward to going back there.  I have so many ideas.  I love crafting!  If you are interested in painting pottery, I highly recommend this place.  The girl there was so nice.  She showed Olivia the kiln and what the pieces look like before they go into the kiln.  The butterfly and the "o" only came to $17 but my groupon was for $25 so she helped me pick out another item so that I could get the most out of my groupon.  That was so sweet.  The Groupon was only $10 but I got $25 worth of pottery.  Such a great deal and so fun!  Definitely will be a great idea when it's cold outside but the kids are bored. 

Summer

Summer Vacation started on May 31st and today marks the 2nd day of the new school year!  This summer flew by!  I tried to keep myself and the kids busy as much as possible this summer and I think I did a pretty good job of it. 

In June, Alex attended Band Camp the entire month of June - but only in the mornings.  Olivia attended Pom Pon Camp for a week and then was entertained by cousin Angela or cousin Lori the rest of the time.  During the month of June, we had Graduation parties, Birthday parties and a wedding out of town.  Plus I got to go see Kiss Me Kate with Lori at the Muny.  Fun times.

July seemed to have less to do but seemed to go by the fastest.  The only camp the kids did this month was Swim Camp and it was only an hour and a half for one week. But they both had a great time.  This is one camp we will definitely do again.  We went to Little Rock over Fourth of July weekend.  We went to see Jimmy during that visit as well.  It was so good for Olivia and Alex to see him.  We have all missed him terribly.  I got to see 3 Muny shows this month and let me say they were HOT!!  Olivia and I went to see The Little Mermaid and sat in the free seats.  That was fun but a very long wait for her.  However she loved the play.  Then my Mom got us really awesome seats up front for Singin' in the Rain.  This is Alex's favorite musical.  The smile on my boy's face brought sheer joy to me the entire night.  I loved it.  This was a great show as well.  We did have to use our ice packs and frozen wash cloths for this show.  It was a hot one!  Then I got to go see Little Shop of Horrors with Liz and Amanda.  At first I was really indifferent about seeing the show but I am so glad I went.  It was such a fun show!!  So glad I got to experience that one.  The other highlights of July were the birthday's - Olivia's 7th, my 39th and Mom's 59th.  Good times celebrating with the family.

August arrived quickly and the next thing I know, it was time for the kids to go back to school.  We went to the drive-in last Saturday.  It was fun and such a gorgeous evening.  Of course, I am not good with directions and went the wrong way coming back from IL so it took about 15 minutes longer than it should have.  Ugh!  August is also marking an end and a beginning for me.  I am leaving Armstrong Teasdale and going to Wind Capital Group to be a corporate paralegal for them.  I am excited about this opportunity.  It also came at such a great time in my life.  I happened so quickly too that it was like it was meant to be.  I start WCG on 8/29. 

Overall, it's been a great summer! I think we will miss the pool the most of all.  Thanks to my good friend Aimee for the pool membership she gave to us.  We utilized that sucker quite a bit.  The kids loved it.  Olivia turned into a little fish and was even brave enough to jump off the high dive and low dive.  Such great memories we have of the summer of 2011. 

Birthday Party

Last night my favorite band played at Failoni's so Deb Do organized a little birthday party for me! I had no idea she was doing this. I planned on going to see the band play but I didn't know she invited a bunch of people and had a cake for me - a Grandma Glo cake!! YUM!!

My day was crappy -- work is slow again and money is tight as usual. So I really wasn't feeling the evening plans. Liz and Bryan picked me up so I didn't have to drive and Liz said my cousin and his girlfriend weren't coming. So I was a little bummed. But, as soon as we walked in, I was greeted by my favorite drummer saying "Hi Birthday Girl!" over the microphone. My mood lifted! The music was flowing and I had just ordered my drink of choice - 7 and 7. Deb Do always spoils me and got me an awesome necklace, earrings and bracelet set. I love it!! As we were listening to the band, my Sunshine (Gayle) walked in and surprised me!! Then Marc and Whitnie came and Kyle and Lacey! The cousin Susie came! She tricked me since on Facebook she said she was going to be watching Project Runway. It was so great to see everyone!!

Of course, Dan had left 3 cowbells on the table and I had to play the cowbells. I did so gracefully and got Liz to join me. Deb Do did it for a little bit as well. So fun!! Then they brought the cake out for me and Samantha! Deb Do kept putting candles on it!! UGH!! Stop with all the candles!! They sang us Happy Birthday and we consumed cake! YUM!!

We listened to the band play until the stopped at 10pm. Had a blast singing and dancing with my family!! We are such a fun group!!

So once again, I had a great celebration of my 39th year!! I celebrated me and was just overwhelmed by all the love! Such great memories!!

Thanks so much to my Moon aka: Deb Do, Soul Sister and mfatiacmbf! for making me feel so special!! It was an awesome night!!

39

July 24th was my 39th birthday and it was an awesome day! The night before, I was watching an Oprah behind the scene's. The one where all the stars came to show their love. Oprah talked about being open to receiving the love and embracing it. She said some other things that really made me think. And I had an Ah-Ha moment. Every year on birthday, I would tell people that "it's just another day". Then it hit me! The message I was really relaying was that I was not worthy of your love. I was not open to receiving your love -- even one day out of the year. This has been my issue for many years. The feeling of unworthiness. Why do I have this? I am not sure. This is something I will work on. So I decided right then and there, that no more would I call my birthday "just another day". What does that say to my parents who gave me life? What kind of example does that set for Alex and Olivia? I would be devastated to hear my children say their birthday is "just another day".

So I woke up that morning with a smile on my face and open to receiving the love. Facebook is a wonderful thing sometimes -- I think I received around 70-80 "Happy Birthday's" -- that was awesome! 70-80 people took a few minutes out of their day to wish me a Happy Birthday. Yes, I am open to receiving their love. Thanks to all! Not to mention the texts and phone calls I received.

The kids and I got ready for a day at the pool with my friend Aimee and her daughter Samantha. Olivia and Samantha are the same age and always have a great time. We haven't gotten to spend much time at the pool together so this was a perfect opportunity. However, Alex ended up getting burnt and I got burnt in a few spots. But we had an amazing afternoon! So thankful for such a great friend. Aimee and I have been friends since college. We lost touch a few times but have since been close for about 7 years now. She has been an amazing friend throughout everything going on in my life in the past year! I am so thankful for her!!

After swimming we went right over to my Mom and Dad's for dinner. They made homemade chicken and dumplings - the dumpling were my favorite (Biquick dumplings). Whenever I was younger and my Mom would make chicken and dumplings she always made the Bisquick dumplings. I just can't have chicken and dumplings with the noodle-type dumplings...so not my fav. So they made the dumplings I prefer. We had a great salad and then my all-time favorite dessert -- bread pudding! I know, I know, I am weird. Everyone I told what we had for dessert turned up their nose and said "blech". I don't know what it is about bread pudding but I would choose that over cake any day.

Then my parents surprised me with a ton of groceries. It was exactly what I needed. Plus, my Dad filled my gas tank up! To someone else, these might be trivial gifts, but these were things that just made my day! Everything was perfect and I was open to receiving it all. I kinda like being open to receiving the love...I felt like I got more out of life and the day by being open.

So despite being away from my husband, spending the first day of my 39th year with my kids, a great friend and my parents was the best birthday I have had in a long time!! Here's to hoping that means my year with be amazing! There are lots of things to look forward to and new memories to forge!

So Happy 39th Birthday to Me!

38th year comes to a close

I am in the last few days of my 38th year. Good riddance I say - 38 was not a necessarily happy time. The good highlights were moving to Crestwood, kids going to Lindbergh, and the addition of new family members, just to name a few. I know I have a ton of blessings and I try and count them every day but here's a toast to hoping that my 39th year is nothing like my 38th.

I am actually looking forward to my 40's. My goal is to be Fit, Fab and Forty by my birthday next year! I believe I can do it. I cannot wait for the cruise my Mom is taking me and my sister on for our birthdays next year!! So that is included in my Fit Fab and Forty -- I need to get healthy. I will be the oldest "child" going and I want to represent! LOL!

So toast with me to the last year of my 30's! TOAST!

It wasn't meant to be!

I got the dreaded email from Nestle today informing me that I am no longer considered for the position. I don't know what it is with this company. I have tried twice to get in there and each time to no avail. I didn't even get called for an interview this time. I guess it wasn't meant to be. I don't think I will try again if this company is hiring. I have 14 years legal experience in both a corporate and law firm setting but keep getting passed over...

I know I didn't need the job but really would have loved to go corporate again and what better company than Nestle. Every employee there loves it.

So bummed...but I am still thankful for the job I do have.

Goings On

We are in the second week of the New Year. I have been sick for the last week...yuck! So I really haven't been able to work on some of my New Year's Resolutions yet. However, I have been reading a new book - a new series -- The Alchemyst, the life of Nicholas Flamel by Michael Scott. This is a teen series, but I really love to read teen books along with the other genres I love. Remember the mention of Nicholas Flamel in Harry Potter and The Sorcerer's Stone? That's what really interested me about it. Now, this book has really sucked me in. I am almost finished with the first book. Alex really wanted to read the book too so we got him a copy from the library so we don't have to share the book. Can't wait to talk to him about. (I have always dreamed of us discussing books. - sorry, books are a passion.)

We are heading to Little Rock this weekend to celebrate Christmas with the Morgan's and to celebrate my niece Katie's birthday. I am really looking forward to spending some time with my inlaws. We always have such a great time together - we love to play games or card games and the kids love playing together. Usually, the day we leave is a big tussle with Olivia. She hates saying good-bye. We haven't been to Little Rock in almost a year. So glad to be going. Plus, the weather is always warmer there. I will have to drive the whole trip since we are leaving in the morning after Jimmy gets home from working midnight to nine a.m. - ugh. I don't mind the stretch of Missouri and usually end up driving until we reach West Memphis - but the trip after West Memphis is a snore. Nothing around but trees. You end up saying over and over "Are we there yet?" because everything looks the same for the next 2 hours! UGH!!

Tomorrow will be a busy day...shopping and getting everyone packed and ready to go. But it will be worth it. I am off work and taking Alex to the doctor in the morning for his foot. Then I can do all my running. Cannot wait to find my brother-in-law some Mizzou stuff for his Christmas gift. I do it because he hates Mizzou. So I love to kid him about it. Can't wait to put the Mizzou tiger tail on the back of his car. ;) Fun times!

Phone Interview

So this morning I had a phone interview for a position with Nestle Purina. I am keeping my fingers crossed that I get called back to interview face-to face. We will see. They seem like a really great company to work for. I interviewed with them for the same position I am applying for now but didn't get it. Small world though, my brother's best friends wife did. She is the one who told me they were hiring again and I should submit my resume.

I hate doing interviews though. I always think of better replies to questions AFTER the interview. I really doubted myself when I got off the phone. Trying to stay positive. I would love to get back into the corporate world again!

Keep your fingers crossed for me and say a little prayer. I am keeping the faith and thinking that if this time it's meant to be, it will be.

2011

Happy New Year!! I am so glad to see the Year 2010 end. Even though this year has brought happiness to my life - kids went to Disney World, the birth of my nephew Brady, being Brady's GodMother, the birth of Hannah, being Hannah's GodMother, finding a new house and getting the kids into the Lindbergh School District and both of them loving it, as well as me - I also had a lot of heartbreak this year. I found out who my friends were and you know what, I found out I also have a pretty strong support system. For this, I am eternally grateful!

We rang in the New Year with our good friends the Morton's. Aimee and I went to college together at SMSU - or I should say the only year I went to SMS. ;) We have remained friends for over 20 years! The really good things is that our husbands are also good friends. We love getting together with the Morton's. It is always a good time and New Year's Eve was a blast.

I usually don't make new year's resolutions but I do kinda make a small list in my head of some possible things I would like to accomplish this year. But then, I came across this and thought, yes, this is what I want my year to be about!

This year, mend a quarrel. Seek out a forgotten friend. Dismiss suspicion and replace it with trust. Write a letter. Give a soft answer. Manifest your loyalty in word and deed. Keep a promise. Forgo a grudge. Forgive an enemy. Apologize. Try to understand. Examine your demands on others. Think first of someone else. Be kind. Be gentle. Laugh a little more. Express your gratitude. Welcome a stranger. Gladden the heart of a child. Take pleasure in the beauty and wonder of the earth. Speak your love and the speak it again

Howard Hunter

I have a feeling 2011 will be a great year!

Happy New Year Everyone!

Finkelman

One day last week, Olivia started calling Alex "Finkelman". It was the funniest thing ever. And anyone who knows me, knows that I love, love, love nicknames! Just ask my brother - Weismoo! (He's going to kill me for that! LOL!!) At first Alex wasn't too happy with his sister calling him that. He kept saying "Finkelman is not my name!" Then I laughed about it and it helped ease the sibling issue!

So last night when we were getting the kids ready for bed, Olivia called Jimmy "Finkelman". I laughed so hard!! I had to explain to him that Olivia called Alex "Finkelman" and just how finny it was. So then I started calling Olivia "Finkelman" and she would call me "Finkelman". So fun!! You really can't help but to laugh when you say the word "Finkelman"! Makes me giggle every time!!

Go ahead try it!! Or maybe you just need to hear Olivia say it! It's a riot!!

Puddles

Because we have one vehicle now and with mine and Jimmy's different schedules, I have been walking. Jimmy takes me to work in the morning but then I take the metrolink and bus home. The bus lets out right at the beginning of my subdivision so I have a little walk to get home. The moments to myself on the metrolink, bus and walk home have been a saving grace for me. I get a little "alone" time. Something I haven't had in quite awhile. The weather has been nice so it's been pretty pleasant.

Well last night, Jimmy was working until midnight and therefore, I was without a car. Alex needed a haircut for school pictures and we needed a few grocery items. I decided me and the kids could walk to do these errands. They didn't seem to mind at all. Awesome!! So we started our trek to Custom Cuts, got Alex's haircut and then walked over to Shop N Save which is in the same plaza. As we were checking out, I heard one of the checkers announce that she left her umbrella in the car. A quick glance out the doors showed it was pouring down rain! Oh no!! The last thing I wanted to do was walk home in the rain. I figured we could wait it out. But after all our groceries were bagged and we walked out of the store, there was no more rain!! So began our trek home.

At first, Olivia would just barely tap the puddles she approached but as we got farther along, the puddles got bigger. It seemed she thought she would get in trouble if she jumped in the puddles so I told her to go ahead and even announced a really big puddle was up ahead. She jumped and jumped in those puddles. All the while, just laughing and laughing. These are the moments that make such great memories. If I could have bottled up her laugh, I would have! So sweet.

So despite the rain, our walk to run errands was worth it's weight in gold! I will always treasure these special moments with my babies! So fun!! I think we might just walk more often!!

Date Night

Last Saturday, Jimmy and I got to have our first Date Night in a very long time! We have actually been getting togther with our friends Mike and Aimee at their house the past few Saturday nights but last Saturday we actually went out. We had thought about using Aimee's niece to babysit but after figuring it would cost us $40 to just pay the sitter, we thought maybe Alex was ready to sit at night with Olivia. He had watched her a few times over the summer while I was at work and Jimmy was busy so I knew he could handle it. But it would be the first time for a night time watch and I knew nighttimes could be a little scarier. But, he was up for the challenge. It amazes me that Olivia will listen to Alex when we aren't there and knows he is in charge but as soon as we step foot in the house, it's back to sibling rivalry!! Anyway, we met Mike and Aimee at a friend's bar. The bar was celebrating it's 3rd anniversary and had given it's guests free food -- Prime Rib, Chicken with Rice, Ham, Veggies, Salad, Rolls and Cupcakes!! Did I mention "free"? The Prime Rib was EXCELLENT!! A few other friends joined us after dinner for some darts. Aimee and Mike have a dart machine at their house -- and always play whenever friends come over. However, I am always recusing myself...not much of a fan. But they wouldn't let me out of it on Saturday. And you know, I really like darts now! It was fun. Jimmy is really good. After I had my turn, I asked him to give me some pointers. He said he couldn't teach me then, proceeds to go up for his turn and gets two bulls-eyes. WHAT? We had a great time and were home relatively early. Olivia was in bed watching a show. The mess was cleaned and lights were out! Alex did a great job. Hopefully this is something we can continue to do every once in awhile. It really is nice to get out as a couple now and then. And after waiting 11.5 years, I think I am ready for a social life again! LOL!!

First Week of School

Last Tuesday was the first day of school for Alex and Olivia! They both started at their new schools.

Alex's day started at 6:15 a.m.! That is incredibly early compared to the late mornings he slept in during the summer. But he didn't seem to have any problems. He was up and at'em right on time. We decided we would take him to school and he could ride the bus home. So after obliging his Momma, and getting his picture taken, Dad took him to school. School starts at 7:25 a.m. Who in their right mind is functioning at 7:25 a.m.? I know I am not!! I can't believe my baby is in the 6th grade! I am so thankful that Alex's school had a Transition Day. I think it really helped smooth things out for him. He is such a worrier and has to know everything that is going on even before he does it. So I think already knowing where his classes were for the first day really helped start the year off great! He is now taking the bus to and from school -- each morning, he meets the neighbor kids and they all walk to the bus stop together. So happy he has someone to do that with. Another big thing for Alex this year is Band. He is taking the trumpet. He loves to practice!! Actually, it's funny because the noise doesn't bother me but it bothers Jimmy. LOL!

My baby girl started Kindergarten! As I was walking her in to school, I started getting a huge lump in my throat. It was so hard to fight it back, but I didn't want her to see me upset. However, Olivia could not get to school fast enough!! She got to see her classroom and meet her teacher the other night so she knew where her seat was and was just so excited. She has been waiting for this day to come. And, I do believe she was ready!! Jimmy and I walked her to her classroom and helped her with her bookbag and lunchbox and took her in to the classroom. She ran to her seat and immediately opened the PlayDoh the teacher had put at everyone's spot. I rubbed her arm and told her to have a good day and that I was going. She was like "bye Mom". She didn't care! Again, I was fighting that lump in my throat. As we left, I saw a little boy screaming and trying to run out of another classroom while the Mom grabbed him up and the teacher was coaxing him to stay. It was at that moment, I thanked God Olivia was ready for this day! She had a fantastic week behavior-wise and stayed "green" all week. She is loving school!!

I think we are really going to like this school district. I have volunteered to help out at both schools and am looking forward to meeting new Mom's! I think this is going to be a great year!!! Thank you God!!!

Life is like a box of chocolates...You never know what you are gonna get!

That phrase pretty much sums up how my life has been for the past year. It's been pretty crazy and just when I think things are returning to normal, another chocolate bursts throwing something new my way.

The new house is good. We love the neighborhood. However, we are still trying to get things organized. We just have too much "stuff". A garage sale will be in my near future! UGH!

Kids start their new schools next week. So happy for them, they are just so bored! Alex will get to go to school for the day on Wednesday for "Transition Day". I am so happy they do this. He is the kind of kid that has to know what is going to happen. No surprises. So hopefully this will help him transition better into middle school. Wow, middle school! How did this happen? Olivia is very anxious to start her big girl school. She gets to meet her teacher and see her classroom on Thursday. I am hoping she does well. She loves to learn but she also loves to do things her way. I was trying to prepare her the other day for what her day will be like and told her she will need a rest mat because they have to rest during the day. She informed me she was not going to rest. I got that feeling like "uh oh, I am going to find myself in the principals office with this one for sure!" So I told her all about needing to listen to her teacher and that if she didn't she would go to the principal's office and that that was not a good thing. We will see how this goes. Hopefully she will have a wonderful year! I am so happy that Olivia will be at the same school where Cousin Lori works...and hopefully she won't be too embarassed to say that she knows Olivia! HA HA!!

Some scary things are going on with Jimmy right now. All I can do is hope and pray! Feeling very defeated - the core of my being is just so sad right now. However, we both are so lucky to have such wonderful supportive friends and family. The only downfall is my best friend of over 20 years has stopped talking to me. She has shut me out of her life compeltely...no more facebook, no more websites she has. Just OUT! The only thing I can think of is because of this situation with Jimmy. I saddens me greatly. But I am trying to tell myself if she really was my true best friend, she would be here with me now when I need her the most. All I can do is move forward. Each day just one foot in front of the other.

Thank you to all who are by my side and sharing in my journey!

Hi Cherie!!

This blog is specifically for Cherie! She keeps telling me to update my blog so this blog post is dedicated to her!

HI AUNT CHERIE!! HAVE A GREAT DAY!!

Back by popular demand!

It's been awhile since my last post...saying that almost feels like I am going to confession...you know like when you would go to the priest and have to tell him how long it's been since your last confession...always hated that...hated going to confession, bad experience when I was little. Anyway that's a subject for another day. So what's been happening in the world of MeMam? Lots and lots -- however, this time has been very emotional and stressful for me. I am trying to emerge to find happiness. I keep reminding myself that I am truly blessed to have such wonderful family and friends and that everything else is just trivial...but it's hard.

I want to start by saying that I have such an amazing son. He truly is a gentle soul. How could I be so lucky to have him? I got a wake up call in August from God. Bascially, decisions I have made in my life need to be changed especially because in order to get my attention, God had to mess with my kids. We had to make the decision to not have Alex return to St. Ambrose this year. We scrambled to find something suitable for him in the way of a public school. With having to live in the city, we are bound by the ridiculous city school districts. Fortunately, we live in a pretty decent area and the school Alex is attending seems to be OK. It's right smack in the middle of the Holly Hills neighborhood so it's in a decent area. He has been adjusting very well. I cried one day asking him if he hates me for him having to leave all his friends. He gently told me "No". He has been making excellent grades and has made new friends. I struggle with the whole private vs public school. I don't know if I would have this battle if we lived in a good county school district. But my sister, who I leaned on heavily during this trying time in my life, informed that I was a little biased because I attended all private schools. I really value my catholic education but with my sister having attended both private and public, she really shed some light for me on this whole matter. Really made me open my eyes...and for that, I thank her! There is nothing wrong with Alex attending a public school. We have come to the realization that on our salaries, we just could not afford private high school for Alex. Something that was really hard to swallow.

So, we are at a crossroad in our life. Olivia starts Kindergarten next year and Alex will go to middle school. I am desperate to find a good school for my children. Jimmy is struggling with whether or not to stay at his job - which he loves - or find something else so we can move out of the city and into a better school district. So needless to say, I have felt like the weight of the world is on my shoulder!

Olivia finally starts her preschool class on Wednesday. I am keeping my fingers crossed that things go smoothly. The last couple of weeks she has slipped a little in her maturity level. School has noticed and I've noticed. Trying to figure out what is going on in that pretty little head of hers. I am sure all the stress at home is the issue. Another hard thing to swallow. It's so hard to shield your kids from your emotions, bad days, etc. I try but I know they can sense it. However, she is doing excellent in her dance and swim class. After her dance class last Tuesday, she came out of the classroom and told me her dance class was "Awesome"! She is really enjoying both.

Whew...it feels kind of nice to write again. For awhile, I was thinking of not blogging anymore but I think I'll try to continue. I think my problem is I want to censor my thoughts...so I'll stop here for now...to be continued...