Watching Army/Navy game wrapped up in PSHS t-shirt quilt

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"Snuggled, cuddled, and sharing s chair. Watching the Grinch without any cares"
(taken at Bailey Cottage)

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The Instagram Team

Beautiful Boy

Spring 2003 (I'm riding up the escalator at Barnes and Noble) 

'Okay God, if I should get a pregnancy test on the way home, give me a sign.'  

First book I see: The Expectant Father.. Oh... MY... GOSH..... 

okay.... let's do one more.  

(I'm in line to pay).  Okay God, I'll listen this time:  If I'm REALLY supposed to get a pregnancy test on the way home, give me ONE MORE SIGN.  I look over, and the first person I see, a cute woman from behind.. She turns around:  Oh MY GAWSH....a huge pregnancy belly, 

OKAY, God, Gotcha, loud and clear!  I'll get a test on the way home, although I'm pretty sure I know what the answer is gonna be.

I remember the total elation felt, then the complete fear.. I was going to be in charge of another human being?  Someone completely and utterly dependent on me?  I'm not qualified.  I don't remember everything from my early childhood classes at Tech.  I haven't studied for this.  I haven't passed any tests, or received any licenses.  They are just going to let me bring this child home? To raise, and care for until they are 18 years old, and after that, we have college.  What am I going to do if he doesn't want to go to college?  How am I going to keep this child off of meth?  Am I going to love this child?  What am I going to do if I think he's ugly?  Please God, let him have my eyelashes, and not Jeremy's.  Can I do this?  I'm pretty sure, I can't.  I'm scared.  I don't want to do this, unless I can do an absolutely amazing job.  What if I can't be what they need me to be?  What if they hate me?  What if they turn out like me?  What if they don't?  What if I screw them up? ~ those thoughts were just in the 20 minutes after taking a test, and it coming back positive.  

I still worry about some of those things, but have a snitch more peace.  I can check a few things off too.  We've made it through diapers.  We made it through potty training.  We even learned to tie our shoes, and read.  A lot has happened in 8 years.  There are so many more milestones up ahead too.

Dear Aidan,

You changed my world forever on Sunday, November 23, 2003.  It was a LONG weekend waiting for you.  The first two things the doctor said was, "Look at all his hair," and "Oh, he's got beautiful lips."  (your lips are gorgeous - some girls will be very jealous).  I've never seen daddy beam with pride, so much, as when he first held you.  He changed your first diaper.  

11.23.04

You were such a happy baby.  You were content to play in your crib until I came and got you.  When you were older, your crib might as well been a bounce house.  You were a fast crawler, and when you learned to walk, you did that fast too.  You've always been anxious to get places fast.  You were a stunt baby climber (which included laying on top of your changer to read a book, as well as pushing a window screen out, and climbing down, walking around to the front of the house, to announce your feat!  You always loved music and swimming.  You've always had a curiosity and thirst for knowledge that makes my heart smile.

Aidan & Polly

I can't believe you're 8 years old.  I know at times, you get annoyed with my sentiment, and someday, you will realize, how fast it's all gone by.  Daddy and I are so proud of you.  You are a good boy, with a kind heart.  You make us laugh with your wit.  You make us proud with your choices.  You are creative, clever, and have a fantastic imagination.  I love your drawings.  You're an amazing big brother to Liam.  He loves and adores you.  My heart smiles when I think of how close you are.  I pray you two always remain this close.  I love your continuing thirst for knowledge, and pray it follows you throughout your life.  Please remember Mommy and Daddy are your biggest fans.  We love and support you, and are forever your advocates.

soon enough.  State Fair of Texas 2011.  

In just 8 short years, you won't be pretending: no Mario Kart, the real thing.  It's no wonder I can hardly make it through Toy Story 3 without tearing up.  These past 8 years have flown by.  You're not a baby anymore.  Sometimes when I look at you, I still see that baby, but only in glimpses.  I've loved being your mom.  I feel so blessed to have stayed home with you.  We've had fun, haven't we?  I look forward to continuing to watching you grow up.

I love and adore you,

mom

Prayers answered.  He's healthy, happy, smart, charming, witty, and he has MY eyelashes, and NOT Jeremy's!

There are so many songs about girls, not so many for boys.  Here is my absolute favorite for boys:

John Lennon's Beautiful Boy performed by: Ben Harper

Elementary Bake team: oven mitts ready!!

We had a short school week this week!! No homework!!  5 days off!! God Bless Thanksgiving break!   Good food, good company, and the holiday festivities begin.  We celebrated an early Thanksgiving with Jeremy's family.  It was delicious.  My pecan pie didn't set well, but I know what went wrong: I used a shallow pie dish, and didn't adjust the amount I poured in.  Wont happen next time - I promise.  I was so embarrassed, but played it off well.  I openly admit: I don't love cooking.  I cook out of obligation and necessity.  I LOVE baking.  I love trying new confectionary treats.  I love love love baking!!!

This week, the elementary bake team (I just made that team thing up, but it sounds official, doesn't it?!) were called upon to bake some treats for the teachers, as a 'Thanks for all you do, happy Thanksgiving, enjoy our baked goods'.  So, here's what I did:  (This is so super easy, and super delish!) -  I don't have a name for it, other than ' 

"A perfect bite"

A perfect bite: oreo's dipped in white chocolate and candy cane

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You will need:

Oreos - one package

Vanilla flavored almond bark, or white chocolate morsels, melted*

(I used 4 squares of Vanilla flavored almond bark)

(*when melting in microwave, use small time increments (20-30 seconds) as not to scorch the chocolate.

How will you know it's scorched? It will not be smooth, rather crumb-y)

Candy canes (I used a box of 18, and crushed ~ 15)

I set up an assembly line (working right to left - I am left handed)

Dip the oreo in the almond bark (I dip half way), then dip in the candy cane.  Lay on flat surface to dry.

crushed candy canes - 

Lucky for my husband, there were a few broken oreos, we had to dispose of accordingly - you understand, right?!

The perfect bite! enjoy

These are so easy, and really yummy. 

Pretty Polly

Here's a quick pic of Polly, our sweet, furry family member. 

She was taking advantage of this amazing fall weather (not 99 degrees outside). Can't say I blame her?  She knows how to enjoy life, that's for sure.

Story time

Story time with Nana: Armadillo from Amarillo. Boys wearing their Puss in Boots hats.

I almost forgot to post: National ADHD Awareness week. Irony anyone?!

This week is National ADHD Awareness week.

I remember when my brother was diagnosed as ADHD, I read through the pamphlets, and asked my mom, "do you think I could be ADD?" "Nah," she replied, "we'd know if you were."   My mother did a wonderful job teaching me to manage myself, but it was also incredibly helpful having her manage me.  When I was on my own, I got by, barely.  I'd forget to call, forget to pay bills, sleep through finals.  I had helpful friends, and Jeremy.  When I had a family, forget it.  Everyday I'd wake up hoping, "please let today be the day I get my shit together.  The laundry is piled up, the school work is piled up, the unopened mail is piled up.  I've got piles everywhere.  This is NO way to live.  Gaa, I suck, I can not get my sh&^ together.  

A few years ago, I heard a commercial for adults with ADHD.  It sounded VERY familiar, like they'd been spying on me.  I presented my 'theory' to my mom.  Her response was devastating, "Nope, I think you're just unmotivated."  Oh, okay, I AM just that lazy.  cool. (insert MEGA sarcasm)  The next week she called, "Uh, Jenn, I was watching Dr. Oz today, and I think you might be right about the ADD.  It sounded like they were describing you.  It might be worth talking to your Dr. about."  I made the appointment that week.  I discussed my 'theory' with my Dr.  (I'm very fortunate to have a Dr. that really listens).  He sent me to a (ahem, I love the official title) a cognitive behavioral therapist.  After visiting with him several times (we discussed my school experiences, home experiences, my thoughts, etc.).  I took some 'tests', lo and behold (scoring in the 70's -100 placing you at ADHD, I scored a 97... yah.... hmmm... nice to finally know. It was like the final missing link to my 'problems'.  Since then, I've re-claimed my self confidence.  I've learned to effectively manage myself and my family.  Oddly enough, it was one of the best diagnoses I've ever received.  It was like removing the titles, "lazy, stupid, crazy, or unmotivated" to my list of adjectives.  

ADHD Symptoms Inattention & Impulsitivity 

(that's the ones I have. lucky me!)

1. Often does not give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities

How many tests did I not do well on, despite KNOWING the material?  My mom would quiz me, I could give you the answer forwards and backwards, then come test time: CHOKE.  We just 'chalked it up to', I'm just not a good test taker.  It was also really embarrassing when they handed back tests.  I never volunteered my scores and really hated those girls that wanted to SHARE scores. I  make so many CARELESS..Ughhh... drives me crazy.  no matter how much I proof-read, I promise, there's a careless mistake in there somewhere.  

2.  Often has trouble keeping attention on tasks or play activities.

ESPECIALLY if it's boring or uninteresting.  Playing poker, video games, or televised sports require WAY TOO much concentration.  I can't devote that kind of concentration to something I could care less about.  Nope, I don't choose to sit in the front at church or meetings because I'm a kiss a$$, it's because if I don't, I won't pay ANY attention.  If you catch me sitting at the back of a meeting, it's because I'm not concerned with retaining any information.  (at least I'm honest)

3.  Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.

huh? What were we talking about.  Sorry, I couldn't focus because I'm trying to understand why you chose to wear those pants with that shirt.  *Or*  I can't focus because someone over there is making a weird noise every 18 seconds (yep, I timed it).  *OR*  I wonder what type of shampoo you use.  It kinda smells like Salon Selectives. which smells JUST LIKE Bath and Body Works's country apple (I wonder if they even still produce that flavor, if so, it's been around a LONG time).  what were you talking about again?

4.  Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (not due to oppositional behavior or failure to understand instructions).

yep, I just couldn't bring myself to do it.  I'm really sorry.  I wanted to, I really did.  I don't know what to say, I guess I just suck. I can't tell you the number of homework lessons I failed to turn in.  I think that's why I continue to have the 'I'm late to the final' dreams.  

5.  Often has trouble organizing activities.

I'm obsessed with container store, and I love the look of organized everything.  AND yet, I often have a hard time knowing where to start with, so I procrastinate trying to conceptually work something out in my head, so I can produce it as 'effectively' as I think it can be done.  Often, starting a project is so much harder than actual project itself.  In a cruel twist, organization is CRUCIAL to someone with ADHD.  I've learned I have to work harder at organization and STAYING organized.  

6.  Often avoids, dislikes, or doesn’t want to do things that take a lot of mental effort for a long period of time (such as schoolwork or homework).

I can remember telling a friend. "Nah, I don't think I'm going to do it (homework).  He couldn't understand why I would do that.  After a long day of school, then work or dance, it was at least another couple hours to decompress and change tasks, I just couldn't concentrate like I knew I needed to. I don't think I read an entire book of required reading in high school.  (most classics remain on my bucket list.)

7.  Often loses things needed for tasks and activities (e.g. toys, school assignments, pencils, books, or tools).

"Jennifer, you have one of those.  Where is it?" 
Jennifer, "Um, I don't know, I can't find it, it's somewhere."

8.  Is often easily distracted.

I literally notice all noise.  It's hard to determine background vs. foreground noise, because it's all foreground noise. (Bedtime is really fun - nose whistles, barking dogs, train horns, cars passing by - I hear it all)   This is frustrating and distracting.  This distraction leads me to frustration and anxiety.  I know I'm not going to be able to focus, which I really want to do, so I get anxious about the upcoming events and activities.  Then when the distraction presents itself, which it WILL present itself, I get extremely frustrated, and don't always handle the situation as best as I can.  Which presents future anxiety about the NEXT, and so on, and so forth.. it's a really fun cycle..  Maybe it's why my family's nickname for me was 'Katie KaBoom' (animaniacs) - yah, lovely..

9.  Is often forgetful in daily activities.

Um, I've missed teacher conferences, volunteer dates.  Yep, pretty embarrassing.  It's one thing if it's for me, and ENTIRELY different thing if it's for my kids.  Waking up every day, hoping and praying, "Please let today be the day I get my 's*(t together."

1. Impulsivity
1. Often blurts out answers before questions have been finished.
3. yep
4. 
   
5. 2.  Often has trouble waiting one’s turn.
6. OhMY GAWWWSSSHH..... I swear I pick the LONGEST lines. I always get the SLOWEST clerks.  Uh..... it sucks. (Is it possible I'm impatient, or is everyone else taking FOREVER?! The speed limit, and people that drive the speed limit drive me crazy.  My car, well, let's just say it has 'character'.  
7. 
   
8. 3.  Often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games).
9. yah, probably a little.. okay.. fine, whatever. it's me.  If I don't interrupt, I might forget what I want to say because I'm going to get distracted by something else!  I'm working on just eavesdropping, and not interrupting, I'm still me. I wanna know what's going on. (at least I'm honest.)

Look, I'm not at all saying, "Whoa is me." In fact, now that I KNOW I'm adhd, I give myself a break.  I'm not excusing my 'shortcomings', I just know what I need to do to accommodate.  I've ALWAYS been like this. Having been 'formally' diagnosed was just the final link.  It was actually relieving.  It was nice to know I'm not just lazy, or unmotivated.  It made SO much sense looking back to my childhood and school years.  I even grieved for 'what could have been'.  I think I could have had so much more success with school and career.  I no longer label myself with: "I'm just dumb, and I suck." That's pretty freeing.  Learning how to effectively manage has really made a positive impact on both myself and my family.  


Some people might be too embarrassed to admit they have ADHD.  Personally, I've had way too many ADHD related (wildly inappropriate) situations or comments to be embarrassed.  (Just another fun perk of ADHD!)


*Irony at its best: I wrote this post last week, in anticipation of ADHD Awareness Week.  Then, I forgot about it until today.  HA! How fitting!

Beds Are Burning

The time has come

To say fair's fair

to pay the rent

 to pay our share

the time has come

a fact's a fact

it belongs to them

let's give it back.

- Midnight Oil, Beds are Burning

It happened today.
I got the email.
I knew it was just a matter of time, but was still thrown off.
I think no matter how much you try to prepare yourself, it's still alarming when it arrives:
I got invited to a monthly Bunco party.

My friend heytell'd (seriously, my favorite app) me, and asked if we were even old enough for Bunco.  I heytell'd her back, "I'm afraid we are, in fact, old enough to play Bunco." Let's face it, I'm about to switch boxes on surveys.  Next year this time, I won't be checking the 18-34 box.  Nope, I'm a whole new demographic.  New companies will be soliciting me for their 'older demographics': probably nothing but medicinal muscle creams and arthritis meds.  Before you know it, I'll be getting AARP propaganda.

I have distinct memories of my mom having her Bunco nights.  Those nights meant early baths, bedtimes, and maybe a handful of m&m's after the ladies got there.  They were loud. Things could not be that funny to a bunch of moms, could they?  I guess we'll see.

What am I holding out for?  I've got a working theory: Bunco is a gateway game: it leads to Bridge, Mahjong, and eventually Bingo.  I'm just not sure I'm ready to take the plunge.  Next thing you know, I'll be have an entire recipe book of jell-o salads, and carrot cakes.

Someone should make an educational poster and sell it in college bookstores.  Girls ought to be informed on the progression of games.

Games of the different decades:

late teens - twenties: Quarters, Keg Stands, and I've Never

thirties - forties: Bunco, Bridge 

fifties and older: Bunco, Bridge, Mahjong, and BINGO.

I'm trying to embrace this.  I can't help that it makes me giggle.  I'm sure I will graciously accept the invite, and seek this new venture out - might as well.  I'll let you know how it goes.

P.S.: Why don't I like carrot cake? Because I"m not 70 or older. That's why.

P.p.s: this is written in good fun.  I don't really have anything against Bunco, or any organized games.  I actually LOVE any opportunity for my friends and I to get together.

It's My Life

Beatings will continue until morale improves.

That 'morale' poster is so funny to me.

One time Jeremy asked a co-worker why this was funny.  The guy didn't get it.  He had some other odd far-stretched theory.  He tried to explain to the guy, it's cyclical. 


I have found this to apply to motherhood as well with some changes:

Requests will cease once requests have been completed.

While waiting for one kid in Math club, the other 3 (I take 2 neighborhood girls home) were playing, and it gave me a chance to chat with some of my favorite mom friends.  We were discussing the monotony of our everyday phrases.


EVERY MEAL:
"Bottoms on the chair.
bottom on the chair, please.
bottoms on the chair, PLEASE.
Aidan, put your BOTTOM on the chair."


"Liam, please sit down while it's meal time.
Liam, where are you going? It's meal time, we're sitting at the table now.
LIAM, PLEASE sit down.
AIDAN, BOTTOM on the chair.
I'm sorry, babe, what were you saying about your meeting?"


"Please stop smacking.
Boys, please chew with your mouths closed.
Boys, please stop smacking, and use your good manners.
No, it doesn't mean chew slower, it just means we don't want to see your food. 
Why? because it's rude manners.
Yes, in some countries, it's a compliment, but not here. We chew with our mouths closed in America, and use good manners.
Thank you."


EVERY AFTERNOON:
"TV time over, please turn the TV off, and gather your homework.
Aidan, TV time is over.
AIDAN. please turn the TV OFF."


"homework is part of life, buddy
Yep, I do remember what it's like to be a kid.
Well, I'm sorry you feel like I'm ruining your life."


"Do you have your homework box?
Where's your homework box?
Homework boxes, please!
Boys: where do we keep the homework boxes?
please go put these homework boxes up."


EVERY EVENING:
"I need you to do 4 things:
brush your teeth & go potty
wash your hands
put your jammies on
pick out your book for night time reading.
okay, YES technically that's five things, I was counting the hygiene as 1 part, but we can count that as 2.
Fine, will you PLEASE do the FIVE things I've asked?
Have you brushed your teeth?
Liam, Aidan, have you boys brushed your teeth yet?
Boys, BRUSH your teeth.
THAT DOESN'T SOUND LIKE TEETH BRUSHING TO ME.
Alright, I'm going to start taking away privileges next time I come in here."


It's these phrases used day after day that grate on me.  What makes it even worse? The boys' response: 'gaaa.. you ALWAYS say that, or I know, I know..,  every day, you say, blah blah blah.....  (of course it's said in the nasally - this is how you're supposed to imitate your mom's voice).   grrrr 


Um, HELLO, IF YOU WOULD DO WHAT I ASKED, I WOULDN'T REPEAT MYSELF OVER AND OVER AGAIN!!!!! We could actually discuss: what Ghost rider's costume for Halloween would be, or how cool it would be to have a 5 day survivor themed birthday party, but we can't, because I have parental obligations, and you're not obliging...


I can remember my aunt & uncle pre & post kids.  They seemed so much cooler pre-kids. (Sorry Dave & Lorna.)  Now I understand why: having kids sucks all the coolness out.  You don't have the energy for cool.  Energy is spent on repetitive phrases and consistency.  


I take solace knowing we're not the only parents out there going through the same thing.  I think it's one reason we're so excited when other couples get pregnant: misery loves company. (a little sick, I know).
Don't get me wrong: I wouldn't change my life for Kim Kardashian's wardrobe (endorsements, maybe).  It's my life, and I love it.  Doesn't mean I don't get sick of repeating myself and certainly reserve my right to bitch about it. (and that's what I'm doing).  

"It's my life

Don't you forget

It's my life

It never ends"

  - Talk Talk, (re-done by No Doubt)

True or False quiz & What's my name?!

Quiz:

True or false:  If mommy is sleeping, and daddy is playing x-box, you should ask mommy to get your breakfast.

Scenario:  Daddy is up playing an x-box game.  Mom is peacefully sleeping.  Liam asked whined to me, Sunday morning "I'm hungry, and I want my breakfast."  I tell him, "Ask Daddy to help you."  He whined back, "No, he's playing x-box."  [I may have had some loud words for him after that response.]

Several hours later, I return home from a delightful afternoon (Music Hall at Fair Park seeing West Side Story), and am instantly greeted with (by Liam), "What's for dinner?!"  [Again, it's possible I had some  loud words for him.] Where did this archaic 50's chauvinistic attitude come from?  Why is he in the mind set, only I am capable of meals.  I have some work cut out for me.

BTW: The correct answer to the above true or false question, is FALSE.  The sooner you (Liam) learn that, the happier mommy will be.

What's my name?

This past weekend we had our Cub Scouts camp out.  Somehow, I was lucky enough to be the scout leader to go up early and 'secure' our sites.  Friday after drop off (nope, still not walking everyday - like I set out to), I headed up north to Eisenhower State Park.  I 'secured' our sites. (I had to put the chits of paper on the clips so others would know the sites were taken).  Then I set up our tent.  I admit, I was pensive about this.  I was convinced I could, I mean, if I can set up a shark or frog tent in our living room, surely I can set up a 4-6 person real tent.  Lo and behold, I did it.  It didn't collapse nor did it move!  I felt a bit like Tom Hanks in Castaway when he created fire.  I think I even did a happy dance like he did.

what's my name?! 

The boys had a blast.  The weather was fantastic, and the company was great.  The boys ran themselves ragged.  It was so cool to be at a point where they can roam (within a reasonable distance) or ride bikes, and basically be entertained with their friends.  2 scraped knees (Aidan), one thorn bush attack (Liam) later, we packed it up early and headed home.  (We saw storms on the iPhones, and I made the call.  I'm all for an adventure, but I don't want to clean it up, and I know I'd be the one stuck cleaning everything up.  A shower and mattress never felt so good!  We had a great time.  I can't wait to do it again.  

My into to camping, thank you Kristin.

Kristin and I on one of the camping trips I took with her family.
circa 1993

Kristin has recently moved back and has a beautiful family of her own.  We can't wait to camp as families.  I'm hoping for this spring, as our fall is booked already.  How did that happen so quickly?!

Pink streak for the cause

Pink streak in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month.

     I love any opportunity to do something fun and funky to my hair.  While I realize that a streak won't help cure cancer, it can help make people aware.  I'm one of 'those' people that is of the opinion: "It's just hair."  I had a friends' mom say to me, "Only people with good hair say that."  hmmm.. while I can't say I have 'good' hair.  I can say, I have a LOT of it.  I will also say, I love having it cut short, then I love the wait of growing it back out.  Jeremy NEVER knows what he might come home to.  It's one aspect I fully enjoy being a girl and having options.  

     On a more serious note: While I was in there I witnessed an act of strength, courage and sisterly love.  My hair stylist's (a close family friend, Kathy) sister (Suzy) has cancer.  While I was processing (hair-ese for letting the color process), Suzy came in to have her head shaved.  Kathy did so, tenderly, and meticulous like you would expect a sister too.  I was so proud of both of them.  I can't imagine how hard it must have been for Kathy to take the clippers to Suzy's head.  So, while I say 'it's just hair', at the same time, it's hair, and NOT having it is a cruel reminder how cancer invades our lives.   It reminds me how precious my family and friends are to me.  It reminds me to not take time spent together with friends and family for granted.  It reinforces my un-wavering belief in the Lord above, and His master plan for all of us. I know we will all be reunited in a perfect, healthy heavenly body that my tiny human brain can't even begin to comprehend.  

     This week has flown by.  I knew it was going to be a busy one.  If I'm not mistaken, next week will be even busier.  Can I just say, I understand why the 'Real Housewives' always have assistants.  It's not possible to get everything done with just one person.   

First grader (score 1) v. Mom (score 0), and a weekend of Mr. Mom

Thursday I noticed my throat was hurting.  By Friday, it was kinda hurting some more.  Friday dinner time, I don't feel like doing squat, except for laying on the couch. I do, kinda, sorta, feel like I could eat some chips and queso.  So that's what I make.  Aidan doesn't mind, he joins me at the table.  Liam opts for an orange (fine, whatever).  Two hours later, Liam asks, "What's for dinner?"  To which I reply, "We're just snacking tonight, have some chips and queso."  Liam (the one most like me - in terms of loud outburst) shouts back, "I DON'T WANT CHIPS AND QUESO.  CHIPS AND QUESO ARE JUNK FOOD, AND I WANT HEALTHY FOODS, NOT JUNK FOOD!"  I bow my head in defeat.  How do you argue with that logic?  You can't, not without really messing with their heads, and I worry about permanent damage... so I don't argue..(sigh)  Liam 1, Mom 0.

The current topic of 1st grade: Healthy foods and healthy choices.  Don't tell me, my first grader isn't paying attention.

I spent most of the weekend sleeping.  When I entered my kitchen this morning, here's how it looked: Mr. Mom anyone? (I still love that movie.. and find it still relevant, even today)

to me, this picture says, 'We appreciate and love you mom, and we wanted to make sure you had something to do today!'  Isn't that what the picture says to you?!

My hats off to Jeremy who did a wonderful job this weekend.  They played Marvel and earned extra suits, (whatever that means).  Jeremy had to pick the older one up from a birthday party [typically mom's department].  He took them to a movie with Uncle Chad, and (here's the part to be REALLY impressed: he purchased a baby gift OFF a registry!!  You read that correctly, AND I didn't even have to tell him where Baby's R Us is.  Maybe he used his GPS, maybe he called my mom.. I don't know, point is, he didn't call me, he let me rest! Seriously, Impressive work, Mr. Bailey! (no sarcasm this time, just pure appreciation!)

*and no, mom, I'm not going to the doctor for a cold, or small sinus infection.* {I'm pretty sure that's what it was.  I diagnosed myself, thanks to WebMD.  Jeremy just LOVES it when I get on WebMd and start diagnosing.  I should totally be a diagnostician!} {whispering} tell me where it hurts! 

Case of the Mondays, and Confessional

Slept 'til 7:04: DANG IT!!!! 

CONFESSION TIME: I drive the boys to school, I should totally walk them: note to self, add another goal: Walk kids to AND from school EVERYDAY - (weather permitting). so embarrassing...

After the boys were dropped off and the whites started in washer, I fixed myself a cup of coffee, and had myself a Monday morning meeting, then I realized:  It's almost the end of September, and I find myself transferring last weeks items onto this week's items.  I'm a SAHM, this shouldn't be happening should it?  BOTH are in school now: where is the time going during the day?  It's INSANE, MADDENING, and RIDICULOUS!  I have several projects I'm trying to complete prior to the holidays.  [Thanksgiving marks us being in our home ONE year .  {I will openly admit, I've given myself this deadline for the house being organized, set up for the rest of our lives, as well as decorated - NO PRESSURE there!}]  

Being organized, and staying on top of things is important as a mother (state the obvious much?)  As an ADHD mom, it requires a snitch more planning time, and the presence of mind remembering my brain DOES work, it just works differently, AND at it's own pace.  I'm not ashamed if all I've accomplished are daily chores, my volunteering, and assistance to the boys' with their needs, however the un-rational side of me still finds it necessary to add pressure, deadlines, and basically overcomplicate any process or project.  Tell me I'm NOT the only one that does this to myself?!  

Lucky for me, I've got a husband that 'gets' me, doesn't try to micro-manage (most times), and is supportive and loving, even when I've over-extended, over-complicated, or over-thought WHATEVER!  

Some more confessional:

Here's how I WANT you to imagine my table as I had my monday morning meeting.

Now, here's how it really looked (I told you, it was a confessional day!)

If you ever need a process or project over-complicated or over-thought, just let me know, and I'd be happy to pass on my own special form of insanity, I mean, insight! * OR* maybe I should just run for a political office?!  hmmmmmm 

Old Mother Hubbard

Remember the nursery rhyme?

Old Mother Hubbard
Went to her cupboard
to give the poor dog a bone.

Mine would be something like:

Young Mother Bailey (i refuse to call myself old)
Went to her Pantry
and couldn't find a damn thing.

Thanks to Pintrest (a virtual pinboard of fabulous ideas, photos, and inspiration) and my new favorite blog: iheartorganizing.blogspot.com, I've re-vamped my pantry for about $70.  I got the shelves at Bed Bath & Beyond.  The pantry and freezer baskets, as well as the bottom stacking baskets are from Container Store.

BEFORE

 seriously.. how did we find stuff?

AFTER: 

**In the interest of full disclosure:  I cleaned out the pantry as well.  Some things had expired, some were donated, and lastly, I haven't grocery shopped since before school started.. It's time.** {dread}

While I was at it, I transformed our freezer.  It was an opportunity to clean out & dispose of expired foods. (Not that we had many of them, ahem).

Here's iheartorganizing's freezer:

UNDERSTATED JENN'S INTREPRETATION:

the icepacks for lunches and more importantly, WINE!

***I'm sure there are some that think this is a waste of time.  For me, it is not; it's crucial for me to stay organized.  I'm very ADD, and have all the wonderful traits that it entails.  It's not easy for an ADD mom to efficiently run a household without a place for everything, and everything in it's place.  It benefits both myself AND the family when there is order.

Here's a link to Wikepedia's Old Mother Hubbard.  I had no idea it was such a long poem.  Learn something new everyday! ;) wink

One Room Craftroom/Schoolhouse

Last year I felt like an insane person, trying to keep up with both boy's elementary handouts, homework, and any other paper that the school sends home.  [I'm quite positive, our school alone, is responsible for deforestation in the amazon.  I digress.]
The last few weeks of summer, I spent re-structuring, purging, and of course reorganizing.  I was thinking the best possible way for me and the boys to work out papers, homework, etc.  Here's what I've come up with.
In my craftroom/office I have 2 utility tables (ugly, i know, but super functional).  There is room at the tables for homework to be completed.  Also, if we have dinner, and for some reason we're not finished with homework, we don't have to clear anything off, we can just come back to it.  I know what i did on the doors, isn't sightly, but it's functional [plus I want new closet doors anyhow].

my 'classroom wall'  That is the homework caddy.  papers, rulers,  etc.

homework box with the 'essentials'.

each drawer in this chest holds something school/educational related.

money, flash cards, word cubes.

Voila! This is how I'm staying organized this school year.  Bring it on First & Second Grade!

Garage sale Gems!

Who doesn't love a garage sale find?  You can imagine how happy this makes Jeremy to come home and find more 'projects' for me to complete.

It goes something like this: 

Jeremy, "Hey, what is that (insert newest project) out in the garage?" 

Jenn, "Oh, that's my new (blah blah blah), I'm gonna do (blah blah blah) to it, isn't it going to be great?!.."

Jeremy, [insert extreme sarcasm] "Oh, yeah, it's gonna be great! I'm so glad you have another project. I was worried you might run out."  

These things come home, smelling funky, looking TI-RED!!  Lucky for me, I'm able to see past that, see the lines, structure; how it will look with fresh whatever it needs.  Here is one of my favorite finds.  I paid $20 for both the chair & chest.  The before is so Marcia Brady. The after is pretty fab, (i think).

It has dovetail joints - very heavy. 

that chair was in sad shape.  nasty.

so cute. sassy.  i love that fabric.

Now, I have storage for all the homework accessories.

it makes me smile when I walk into the craft room and see these sassy pieces.  I especially love all the men in the house use the chair when they're on the computer.

What to do, when the pool is 102?

It's in-escapable.  This summer is brutal.  Satan's called, he wants his weather back.  Even FB peeps are cranky when others post about the heat.

The boys' attitudes.. hmmm.... (inhaling, exhaling : yogic breathing)... When I ask them to do their workbooks, you'd think I'm asking them to relinquish their toys and replace them with a rock collection.  I've begun dramatically limiting wii, computer, and tv time.  They are forced to play with their toys. Can you imagine?  Sometimes I really loathe technology.  The thought that they are incapable of contentment without it, makes me cringe.  That doesn't seem like progress as a civilization to me.  What do I know?

Anyhow, I've really started tacking my projects I've procrastinated on.  Here's one of them:

I call it:

Recipe Book Clean out & Consolidation

They are organized  by category, etc.

The folder holding recipes I've collected.

These recipe books were my grandmother's.

I took these to staples to hole punch for me. 

 

Voila!  A cabinet fit for Real Simple

Cheers

Cheers to a great season of Project Runway! Love, the Plano Judges

Electric Youth

The phone rings.  (sigh) the cordless is not right next to me, and I'm really comfy on my bed.  I'd better go see who it is, or my cell phone will be next, and I don't know where that is either.  Naturally, I answer right when the caller hangs up. I call back.

Amy "tell me you're watching GMA"

Jenn "Uh, no, hold on, let me change it (changes channel) - OOOHHHH...THANK YOU FOR LETTING ME KNOW!! I WOULD'VE MISSED THIS!!"

What I hear next, I know the words, but I can't remember who sang it, why do I know these words, (flipping through the file cabinet that I call my brain) -- DEBBIE GIBSON, "oh oh.... It was only in my dream, as real as it may se -e em, it was only in my dream, a whoa oh, a whoa oh"

That's right: Debbie Gibson AND Tiffany performing on GMA promoting their upcoming tour! (I guess it deserves an exclamation mark?)  I felt a bit conflicted seeing the former teen idols performing.

Hearing the song takes me back: I have keds in every color (sometimes with two different socks, switched, thank you very much).  This time was prior to pop's death, and grunge's birth.  This was before we started wearing birkenstocks, Docs*** , and borrowing our dad's flannel shirts.  This was before I was worried about boys paying attention to me, and before we knew how brood teen angst, we were bopping around our rooms giving concerts to our mirrors.  We were little girls - excited for a friday night sleep over and an episode of Full House (oh, I know, I said it~ and yes, I thought Uncle Jesse was soo cute!).  I admit it, I liked their music.  My dad was probably pleased I was singing some sappy pop song instead of Madonna's Papa Don't Preach {Which I had NO idea what that song was about until much later*}.  My only problems in life were not having a bow to perfectly match my outfit, or conflict of sleepovers!

I'm having trouble with Debbie Gibson outfit (white booty shorts, with a garter on the left leg?, a lime ruched crop top, and fushia boa cuff?)  She looks fantastic, I mean FANTASTIC.. She does, BUT, BUT.... should we be trying or dressing like we did back in the day?  I've always heard the fashion rule, "If you've done one trend once, don't do it again." I realize sometimes it's hard not to, but I just think there's a time and place for everything, and her time was back in 1989, and the place was at the MALL..  Poor Tiffany was looking a little rough around the edges.  She looked like she should be touring with Stevie Nicks/ Heart, rather than Debbie Gibson.  She was wearing her chiffon-y dress with a leather vest, and ankle boots.  I just think Debbie's stylist has some work to do - there's got to be a happy medium.  I know there is.  Do you think Debbie still wears Electric Youth Perfume, while on tour?  I remember being chased by bees when I would wear that perfume.. Seriously, the bees followed you.

Here's my take on the midsection thing:  If I get to the point where I feel like it's safe to show off my midsection regularly, I'm hoping that I'll be satisfied enough KNOWING I COULD, but having the restraint NOT to.  Had my bellybutton not been tormented by two pregnancies in 17 months, maybe I would be wearing a bikini with out a second thought.  I just can't bring myself to wear a bikini on a regular basis without fear of mentally scarring others.  Maybe I'm just jealous.. it's totally possible.

Lastly, why I'm happy I'm not famous:  I don't have to sing the same songs that over and over again, so I can get a paycheck.  If I get sick of a song on my iPod with two thousand something songs, they MUST get tired of their selection.

Despite my fashion rips on them, they sounded great, and I smile remembering a happy,  more simple, and innocent time of my life.  Thanks for the flashback.  I just might watch Back to the Future tonight. 

Since we're back in the 80's today, here's a laugh for you: Me circa 1989.

Those are some nice short-alls. -  the acid wash really adds a nice touch, don't ya think?!

also, please note the matching white bow!

Those are jams, and a coke t shirt earned by turning tabs in.. remember that?!

** I have a memory of singing Papa Don't Preach out loud in my room.  The next thing I know is my dad standing in the doorway, asking me if I know what this song means.. I shrugged, "No, why?" -

***BTW, Dani, I don't think I ever returned the Doc Martens I borrowed from you when we were at Vines, and I'm really sorry about that.