Christmas gifts

      It’s time to really start thinking about gifts now. Especially for my kids. I’m trying to think of gifts that aren’t going to be another addition to the misfit toys stack. I don’t think I could take another book unless it involved volcanoes, tornadoes or sharks…. or something educational. We did get a volcano and tornado book for Jack for his birthday, but they were hidden too well before hand, and we still haven’t found them. SO, anything that is truly educational is a “go” with me.

     They do love their toys, and I have been keeping tabs on which toys they enjoy the most. Conclusion: topping the list is doodle pro. Followed by mega blocks, cars, puppets, toy figurines and books. These toys are played with as they are supposed to be.

   Topping the list of favorite toys played with “incorrectly” are": A pop-up Cars racer ramp (depressed and upside down it doubles as a steering wheel).  Next is the ball popper. I removed the batteries long ago. This toy is most famously called “Number 6” as in the Old Thresher’s train. It’s pushed around and frequently has things stuffed down it’s “funnel.” A bonus for “Number 6” is that the “funnel” can come off and be used as another steering wheel. That way my 2 big boys can both stick their steering wheels into the tub of mega blocks and drive the “truck” while sitting on their Spiderman couch.

    They come up with these on their own. I was about to throw out that stupid ball popper, but I let it sit by the door in a sack. I wasn’t brave enough to take it away from the kids. In my mind I kept thinking since they aren’t using the toy how they are supposed to it should be thrown out. But I don’t know if I can. They love it so much. And it’s helped expand their imaginations. I think it might be cruel of me to take it from them now.

  Now on to things that are NOT toys that they enjoy playing with: From time to time I notice my mixing bowls are missing. They slowly trickle away to the play room. I finally had Jack bring them back up today. I couldn’t make anything. He had taken them all to use for drums. He will from time to time ask Joe and I to come downstairs because “the concert is about to start.” He’s musically gifted as well. He can keep a beat. And my little Andy can dance. Maybe it’s just mommy talking. The boys also play on the computer with paint. Drives Daddy mad.

  Next they love empty bottles. Dish soap and shampoo are the best. I had used all of the dish soap refilling the handle in my dish sponge and started to rinse out the bottle to put in recycling when Jack walks up and says “And now it’s a toy?” Never mind recycling... we’re recycling in our home. Yes, he got the bottle to play with.

     So, this year I think I’m getting some cheap mixing bowls, and some painting program for the TV so they stay off of the computer. Maybe I’ll get some toy and remove the batteries,(if it comes with any) and just see what they can imagine. I’ll probably end up getting some learning work books and some clothes. Oh, and they all get a candy cane. I’ve just come to realize that toys are not always the best.

Jack will love the bowls, and I might even get him some real utensils too. He likes to cook with me anyway. So it’ll be a multi functional “toy”. And he needs long sleeve shirts. The 4T ones are just too small.

  Andy really couldn’t care less. He loves toy figurines. I think we’ll go with a few of those…. sea creatures most likely, or dinosaurs and then cars. I’ve already put the bug in my grandma’s ear for a doodle pro for him.

  My little Alex will get something to chew on, and a new outfit that matches with his big bros’ outfits. Oh, and maybe some more paci’s and diapers.

Stocking stuffers will include toothbrushes, fun shampoo, and some fun bath toys. The ones we have right now I’m thinking are probably pretty yucky looking on the inside. Some skin stickers (tattoos), Play dough for Jack. Finger puppets are other ideas.

They will get new pajamas, too on Christmas Eve.

I don’t know. I’m just typing things as they come to me. We’ll see what we end up with.

   I am so excited. Andy will really enjoy Christmas this year. He’ll actually remember it a bit probably. Last year we were all sick and it was awful. It was a no fun Christmas. Bonus though…we did all sleep together in bed for a 4 hour nap that day, and we didn’t have to rush off to places. We just stayed home. It was wonderful in that sense.

  Tomorrow we get to start the advent jar! I am so tickled and excited. This is going to be so much fun to do something with my kids everyday until Christmas. I am so excited, excited, EXCITED!

  I just put Andy to bed, and Alex needs feeding. Then I think I’ll get get my photo stuff ready for the shoot tonight, and do a bit of running on the treadmill when Alex goes down again. I don’t have a book I’m reading right now, I finished another series yesterday. I think I’ll check the library to see if The Time Traveler’s Wife is in. How sad… they only have it on audio. No fun. I suppose I’ll check Amazon for it a bit later when I’m editing more photos.

Stuff

      Our trip to Des Moines went well. I scored a fish from Joe’s mom. Well, I won’t get it until we go up there again. I am excited to bring that pretty angel home! I’ve been wanting to spruce up my tank. My 4 black mollies are a touch boring. My tank looks empty until feeding time when they all flock to the surface to be stuffed to the gills. I have to clean the tank as well. I haven't done it in a long time.
  We visited with his Joe’s dad at Perkins.


Grandpa George

Jack was too busy. He didn’t want to get up.

      We went to visit the Jordan Creek mall on Wednesday. I stopped in and got some awesome smelling body spray from Victoria’s Secret. It also comes in a  shampoo, conditioner, lotion, bubble bath, and body wash I assume. It smells de-lish.
a couple of Jack and Andy’s cousins sharing a book with Grammy


Some more:

outside window

Alex and his Great Grandma on Joe’s side. Alex was born on her birthday. She also has another great grandchild (girl) who was born on her birthday 3 years ago. Pretty neat stuff.

Andy got his first haircut on Tuesday. My what a little stud he is. He looks so much like Jack with his hair shorter.



Gee, I am pretty cute!
    The stitches in my gums will be taken out next Wednesday. I don’t know if I can take it that much longer. They are starting to come out already and I have to push them back in with my tongue!
     Oh my Jack…. he broke his “baby’s 1st Christmas” ornament today. I think it was him anyway. He blamed Andy, but I just had a feeling it was him. So, he got put into time out for a bit. He wanted out so bad. He says to me, “I love you, Mom. You are so pretty.” I of course still wouldn’t let him up. “I want a new mom.” he tells me. Joe came home shortly after this happens, and I guess Jack told Joe he wanted a new mom, too. Joe told him we wanted a new boy. A nice boy. Jack said “ok”. Joe said we would give him to people that were mean…. “I love Mommy.” Yes, that’s my Jack. My mouthy, too smart for his own good, Jack.
    I keep saying I want to lose weight. And I do! I am just under so much stress right now, and not getting enough sleep. Something has got to give because I want to get back into my good comfy clothes. I should be in pretty good shape by this point. I’m not too bad off, but not where I want to be!! By Christmas…. I am going to lose 7-10lbs. I can do it, I can do. Just gotta put my mind to it!!
    Today was a sad day. I attended my second funeral. My Great Aunt Elke’s. I learned more about her than I knew. What an amazing woman she was. I really wish I would have known her better. May God bless her sisters (my grandmother included), her daughters and her grandchildren. It was a beautiful service.
  We have our tree up. I’m sure that was pretty obvious since Jack broke an ornament.
 
   

lucky me… I got picture before he broke it.


 
For more pics… check out my facebook.
I am so tired beyond belief. I have got to hit the hay! Have a good night.

Happy Thanksgiving

     I changed the background on my cell phone to little pumpkins, squash and corn. Thanksgiving must be getting close.

     I am so thankful for my husband. I can’t put into words all that I feel for him, and all he does for me. I feel so spoiled when we are together. He gives me so much more than I deserve… but I’m not going to stop him. Together we’ve created three beautiful boys. It’s so refreshing looking into Jack’s face and seeing Joe. If I could get into Jack’s head, I’m sure it would look like Joe’s too. Joe is always teaching me new things, even if he doesn’t know it. He stays so cool through everything. All our little.. umm… discussions. He really helped teach me to keep my cool and think about things in different ways. I can’t give him complete credit for that, but I’ll give him some. Thank you Joe for the patience you have with me, for creating life with me, for the things you spoil me with, your unfailing love, and, I was going to type undivided attention, but that’s kind of hard to hold up with the kids. It’s ok, you don’t have mine all the time, either. Forgive me if I take my stresses out on you from time to time. You handle that so well, and I am forever grateful. Thank you for taking me in your arms and making me feel protected and safe.  I love you to the ends of the Earth and until God calls us home.

    I finished the advent jar that was started at MOPS on Friday. I am so excited to start this with the boys! It’s filled with fun things to do everyday until Christmas.

 

    Seeing Christmas lights, playing the snow, baking cookies…. a puzzle with a bible verse on the back to be read when that piece is drawn. When all pieces are drawn it can be put together and colored. Little trinkets, some coins, candy, and things to do for others, color in coloring books… ah! I am so excited. When I was little we would open a window on a house for our advent calendar. It was homemade by my dad and mom (I think) by using poster board, Christmas cards for the pictures on the inside of the windows, and colored pencils for drawing the house and bushes with snow. Every year they would be re taped, and we’d cut the tape again. The door to the house was a picture of Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus, which was also door 25.

   A few years ago I thought about creating something like that as well, but it got started, and never finished. I am so happy to have found something we can do year after year now. I’ll probably get the boys involved in decorating the jar next year.

 

       We will be heading off to Des Moines tomorrow to see Joe’s family and celebrate Thanksgiving. They haven’t met Alex yet, minus one of Joe’s brother’s family who came down for a few days in September. We won’t be making it to my family’s on Thanksgiving feast. I can only imagine it would be rather sad anyway. My great aunt Elke passed away on Saturday after a battle with cancer. She was surrounded by her close family when she passed. She was 65. I’m always going to remember her voice and laughter. I didn’t see her much, but I always associated her with Thanksgiving. Her happy spirits and warm smile. My prayers are with her parents (my great grandparents) and her sisters (my grandma, and 2 other great aunts) Losing a daughter and a sister has got to be so hard. I’m sure they have so many memories to live from, but knowing that making those memories with her will no longer be, is so sad. Her grandchildren will miss her so much, I’m sure.

   I started making my photo greeting cards for Christmas yesterday. I’ve got 6 templates so far this year. Here’s what I have so far!

 

View Full Album

 

   I still want to put some Bible verses on them, and jazz up the photo frame a bit. Totally customizable! They are all 4x6… $25 for 25 including white envelopes… or $15 print your own. I’ve still got more to make, but I don’t think I’ll have time today. We will see.

I’ll leave you with a little Alex.

 

 

 

Oh… and my cat geekin’ out. I think there was a mouse in the wall above the shower.

 

 

Have a happy Thanksgiving all!! If you are a mad person… enjoy Black Friday as well!

New Moon

Last night Vicki, Amy and I went to see New Moon. We had a little “date” planned if you could call it that. We planned on meeting at a coffee shop for a bite to eat before hand and some beverages. non alcoholic. It’s not my thing to drink before a movie.
Vicki and I met at the coffee shop, but it was closed. So we walked around town looking at things and talking. It was quite a warm evening for November and I found it very refreshing. We made our way back around to the theatre. It was 50 minutes until the movie started, and there wasn’t a line, so we decided to drive to McDonalds and get a coffee and hot chocolate.
  We got there and Vicki ordered her coffee and I ordered my hot chocolate. The girl was new and couldn’t find the “hot chocolate” button on the register, so I just decided to switch to an iced coffee. I was debating on getting one anyway, so that was my sign. Vicki’s coffee was way hot I guess. I don’t know how much of it she was even able to drink before the movie started.
  We got back to near the theatre and there was a small line, nothing big. We looked in the window of a Mexican shoe store or something. They had some pretty fancy looking shoes and way low prices. So I gulped down my drink as fast as I could and tossed it in the trash.
  We went in and got our tickets. I wanted to get something to munch on there, but I didn’t want to wait too long, so we took our seats. We talked and looked around at other people. Then Amy showed up and the movie started. Previews did anyway. I saw some movies based on books being advertised. More books to add to me “must read” list. It’s growing quite large at this point.
   It was close to half way through the movie when I had to pee. It wasn’t too bad, but it was enough I could tough it out for awhile. I started to think Vicki must have had to pee, too. Soon enough Vicki got up and left. Darn coffee. Not doing that again. Maybe a shot might have been a better idea. As soon as she came back I just couldn’t hold it any longer and I had to go to the bathroom. Like a mighty rushing water.
  Ok, back to the movie. It was awesome. It outshone Twilight by far. It was so much more like the book, and I LOVED the graphics of the wolves. It was very enjoyable, and I can not wait until Eclipse next year! I want to read the books again. There I go adding more to my “must read” list.

  Church is having their Thanksgiving today, so I’ve been up since 5:30 making dishes to bring.
  On a side note, 3 years ago today we found out we were pregnant with Andy. I still remember taking the test, and reading it in the kitchen and nearly dropping it and crying on the phone to Joe and telling him we were finally pregnant again. I love my little Andy. My little red, my little Roo. I love my children so much. They bring light where it is dark more often than bringing dark where it’s light. I am forever grateful to God for sending me such beautiful children to shape and mold.

I need to take pictures today of the kids. I haven’t shot them in awhile.  Have a good day, all!

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    How many times can we listen to Best friend by Toy-Box on the way to MOPS? Somewhere between a crap load and a crap ton! It does have a fancy beat.
     We stopped off and saw Joe on our way home. I looked at Jack and saw his shirt was on backwards. Darn it… I got their faces cleaned before we were out the door this morning, but I forgot to check clothes to make sure everything was on right. It wasn’t totally noticeable since it was just stripes. Now, if it had been a  hoodie, I don’t think I could have gotten away with it as easily.
       We just got back from a little walk to get the mail and take a journey around the town. Alex fell asleep in the stroller. He looked so snug and toasty wrapped up in the fuzzy blankets. Only his little face was exposed. I kept looking down at him sucking on his pacifier as I was watching the reflection of the trees and sky pass by in his eyes. He was so content, just at peace.
     Next week we’ll be bringing out the holly and the ivy! Well, not exactly. But some fake variations of such things, and the tree… fake as well. But the lights are real! Can’t fake those. No- you can’t fake those. But you can use them to create other fake things. Such as deer. You know,  the ones that have the neck bend down to the ground to eat. I used to want some, but they look so ugly during daylight hours. It’s just something weird on my part. Please don’t take offense if you own a wire deer. They do look pretty at night.
   We’ve gotten 2 letters from professional Christmas light decorators. While they have impressive examples, I fear the charges would be insane. There isn’t a list on the website of charges. I wonder if it is per bulb… and of course there is no question that temperature is a factor. Charging more for each degree colder is also a must. Then there is hourly rate, too. They had a McDonald’s example!! Some of these houses were so lit up I began to wonder what I was looking at. An optical illusion? maybe if I squint harder I’ll see Santa. Who knows.
        Alex had his 4 month check up Wednesday. He’s 15 pounds and 25 inches long. He’s ranked in the 50th percentile. He looks so chunky to me, that very soon I’m going to be getting out the 6-9 month clothes. The 3-6’s are just starting to fit a touch to tight for my taste. All my boys had big feet when they were born, and their feet rarely fit in the outfits for their month size. I usually have to  do socks and pants.
     Today I am thankful for breastfeeding. Not only because of the abounding benefits, but because I can nurse and read with 2 hands. I can help Andy get dressed, and Jack if he is being stubborn. I can also type with 2 hands on my phone, or one on the computer.
  Next week is Thanksgiving, and I can hardly wait for all the yummy food! Too bad I won’t be enjoying them fully. Half my mouth won’t be anyway. It’s very sad. I feel unbalanced.
  Ok, no pictures again. I just haven't had time with the other photos I’ve been taking. Off to make supper now an prep for Ms. A’s photo shoot!

Blade 12 please.

      My crown lengthening surgery went very well. I’m not in much pain at all. I am so happy I heal fairly quickly with things like this. Hang with me, I'm not down with all these dental terms.
       I was pretty nervous going into it yesterday. I’m usually not nervous about things like this, but pushing back my gums and cutting them up aren’t exactly pleasing ideas to me. The DDS doing the procedure was not the one who originally looked at my tooth, but it was his brother. Lucky me I was put at ease to see he looked just like his brother. Identical in fact. A familiar face, even if it wasn’t the same person. He had the same mannerisms as his brother as well, which helped. Exact same profession….. all I can guess is they are going to start a clinic together some day.
     The assisting… umm… person, I guess, took my BP and it was 120/70, which is high for me. Hello nerves. So the Dr. starts going over the possible complications, and issues.. Bleeding, got it, some pain, duh, swelling, fine. Nerve damage… what?! I was nodding my head in agreement and I was as relaxed as I could be up until that point. I know the smile had to have melted off of my face and my eyes had to have widened a few inches… or feet. I know I gasped a little bit, too. I tried to play it cool and get back to my happy place and realize I had no choice but to keep on with the procedure. I signed the consent.
   He didn’t waste any time and I was tilted back and staring off at the napkins that are used to wipe spit, and keep shirts clean. Spilfyter. I always subconsciously cross the “l”. It would be more appropriate to call them “Spitfyter”, which is also a much cooler name. It could come in a variety of hot colors. Orange, pink, green, yellow. You’d never lose a Spitfyter napkin.
  Gah! On goes the strawberry flavored topical. Yea for flavored topical. That didn’t sit on long and I was getting some small injections, similar to what I get for cavities, I believe. After those few pokes I was given something stronger. 4 injections of that. The 1st one he said I wouldn’t feel. No big deal. He went on to say “you make feel some discomfort with the 3rd and 4th though” Ummm, 3rd and 4th?! I guess I should be thankful for being numbed up as much as I can. The 1st injection went up unto my gums, not sure how far, and I didn’t feel it. The second was painless as well. Three and four, yes… I did feel. But it wasn’t as bad as I thought. There would be a 5 as well… and even a 6.
   “I might need a 12 blade” He says. Gag… I really don’t want to think about blades and my gums and bone. I tried to think of other things. I prayed. Prayed and prayed and prayed nearly the whole time.
    He gave me a bite block, and then removed the temporary crown. Then he poked my gums to see if I could feel anything. I was totally numb on the front side, but I could still feel very, very, very small amount of pressure on the back side. Smaller than the pressure of a fly walking on your skin. Nevertheless, I was given more of the strong stuff (that stuff tastes nasty). And off to work he went.
  It was about 15 minutes in when I realized the prep work was done and he was actually working. He didn’t give me notice! But I was going to be ok!! It must have been about 45 minutes into it when I started wondering how long I had been sitting there with my mouth open and my tongue dry. I guessed 20 minutes. I don’t like dry tongue, but when I tried to wet it I’d just taste lots of blood. Salty, warm blood pooling in my mouth. Icky. I can’t think of a better word. The thought of swallowing my blood kind of grossed me out as well. At this time I thought I might sneeze. I didn’t, but it got me thinking about this. I wonder if anyone has ever sneezed in a dental procedure. I had the urge, but it was so small and went away quickly. Perhaps I’ll just open my mouth really wide next time I need to sneeze to see if it takes away the feeling.
      So then I start thinking. I can’t remember the DDS’s name. Shoot, why not start with “A”! Here I go… A…B…..C….D… D! Dingy! That’s it. Ah, I knew it was a different name. I almost laughed out loud. I had to control myself and actually think about what was going on for a second to scare myself from it. Well, let’s keep going in the alphabet, just incase that isn’t right. E…….K…….P…….R…S….T… TINGEY! Oh my gosh, that’s it. I am so glad I kept going. I don’t even want to think about how much of a fool I would have looked like if I were to have called him Dr. Dingy. I almost laughed again as I was reciting it in my head, “Thank you so much Dr. Dingy for your work.” I wonder how he would have reacted. Oh, what an idiot I would have been. And you know, I would have said something right then if my mouth wasn’t wide open. This is why I make an idiot of myself. I get too sure of myself too soon. Let that be a lesson to myself. “If you’re not careful, your Tingey could be Dingy.” Ok... it’s not nice to make fun of his name. I'm just making fun of myself. He really was a great, and I’m sure he and his brother will do very well.
    Pushing back on my gums. Spraying my face with water- more like hosing my face with water. I’m sure I lost all my make up. They tried to keep my face dry by wiping it up. But, water must be used with the high power tool, or drill, whatever, to cool it off as it’s grinding away bone.
    I was still nervous and began praying again when there was more pushing. Praying for my peace and calm. I just knew God was there with me guiding his hands in my mouth. I was so grateful at this moment for knowing God. He doesn’t leave me. It was so comforting. I sighed and relaxed again.
   “Can you hand me 12” I was so pleased he didn’t say “blade”. As silly as that sounds. I knew exactly what he was talking about, but the word “blade” just, I don’t know. It makes me think of am axe murderer or something.

    In no time at all he said he had to check with the doctor to make sure everything was looking good. She came back and asked quietly if I was sleeping. I told her “no” and she seemed kind of surprised that I looked that relaxed. She checked the amount of gum taken off, and left. I was stitched up, given 800mg of Ibuprofen and I left. The surgery only took about an hour. I was so pleased. I was given an estimate of 2 hours.
  He asked Andrew (assitant) to clean up my face. I said “It’s no big deal, I can go to the bathroom and clean myself up.” He looked at Andrew and they both laughed a little. Dr. Tingey looked down, chuckled a second and said “We don’t really like to send patients out like this.” I can only guess my face was splattered with blood. I must have looked hilarious. I go back in 2 weeks to get the stitches out.
    I called Joe and had him pull the boys away from the mall’s play area to come and get me. We went to McDonald’s where Joe ordered for himself and the boys. I didn’t eat at this point. We ran around and picked up a table and chairs from craigslist. As Joe was strapping the table top to the van roof, standing in the open door to get some height to tighten the straps, Andy saw Joe’s zipper. He reached up his hand and touched his zipper with the most wonder in his eyes, and then looked down at his own pants  and touched his zipper.  He did this a few more times. I smiled and chuckled to myself in the midst of the cold and rain coming in the door, Alex screaming his hungry head off and Jack asking me about… something. It was a moment of calm and peace in my mind. I thank God for those little moments with the moments of “about to scream my head off.”
     Then we went off to Walgreens to fill my RX. Wow…. I waited 45 minutes for it! I had never been to a Walgreens before. I wasn’t impressed. In fact, as I was picking up my medication I almost told one lady I’d never use them again, I was very displeased. But I didn’t have to, she handed me 2 coloring books for Jack and Andy. Instantly redeeming herself before I even said anything. She apologized for the wait, and was pleasant, smiling,  calm, and not rushed. THAT is good customer service. She turned me around instantly by one little gesture when she could have gotten an earful. I wish more people were so considerate at observant and she was.
    After this I realized I was very hungry and a yogurt was not going to do it for me. I broke down and had a fish sandwich from McDonalds. It was soft…. and easy to chew, so yummy.
    I began to feel much better. So, we went to the mall. The boys played and I was on the hunt for some walking shoes. I didn’t have any. So I went to Lady Foot Locker 1st. And I saw a pair I liked right away, but I decided to look at other places in the mall for shoes, so I left. I wasn’t impressed with others’ selection and prices, so I started to make my way back. I saw Pac Sun had a 50% off lowest ticket prices sign. I had to stop. I picked up a Billabong dress for $2.50. Yeah, pretty sweet!! Ok, now back to business, Lady Foot Locker…. or Aerie. I had never been there before so I looked around a bit at their stuff. Ok, all done…. off to Lady Foot Locker… or Victoria’s Secret… after all, I don’t want to take the boys away from playing too soon! I went in to smell their scents. Mmmmm! I absolutely love Delicate Petals!! I just think I like the scent of roses over all. I’m always trying to find that one special scent I love. One my sister won’t take from me. *cough* Bottled Emotion, Romance *cough*…. *cough* Happy *cough*. Enough. Anyway, now I am second guessing my “p.s. i love you” scent. I have so many smells. I really just want to pick one and be set. I feel so incomplete in this area. I have a loyal mascara, foundation, other make up in general. Loyal jeans, toothpaste, etc. I’m just ever looking for a scent. I keep smelling the paper strip, and I still love it. I think I need to have a Scent Showdown.
  I did make it eventually make it back to LFL but the shoes I wanted didn’t fit. So what.. I’ve got fat feet! They only had 2 shoes in wide, so I went with a New Balance pair. They should last me forever.
  So, I just had the urge to sneeze and opened my mouth really wide. It didn’t work. I guess you have to be nearly upside down for it to work.
  Off to work on the house. Alex’s 4 month check up is today in an hour and a half. I can’t wait to see how much he’s grown. Have a good day, all!

It’s Monday

Yes… yes… why it IS Monday! I’m sitting here enjoying a slice of bread baked last night. Yummy. I love the smell of baking bread. It beats out nearly all the other smells of baking I know. Fresh and warm at the same time. It’s awesome.

  So, this Windows 7 is pretty awesome. I must say my favorite thing so far is the dock on the desktop. I can click right to my blog here… where it actually shows me my template as I am tying in the font I’ll be posting with. Oh! And it has spell check!!! YES! I am so excited about that. There are some pretty sweet games on here as well, but I have no time to figure them out. Instead of having bars in the taskbar for minimized windows, it creates small icons. If there are more than one window open in explorer it stacks them on top of one another. Just hover your mouse above the icon and it will give you a live screen shot of what you have open. Click which screen you want to be at. Ah, I love it. There are so many more awesome things about this is as well, but I’m stopping there now.

This weekend was spent setting up the new computer. I’ve spent a lot of time reinstalling programs and locating things I lost on the other one. What a mess. I need to delete a ton of old stuff I don’t need anymore.

Saying good-bye to the beast.

  I was getting ready for a shoot on Friday rushing around trying to get things together. Jack was asking me half a million questions about random things and I said to him “Jack, I can't really talk right now.” To which he replied “You have hiccups?”. He takes everything so literally.

  Today I am thankful for Alex. He’s 4 months old today. It’s hard to believe that he was born 4 months ago already. The trees were lush and green. Now they are bare and brown. Alex is such a blessing to us. An gift we weren’t expecting, but so glad we received. I love watching him learn and absorb everything. He talks a lot now, mixed in with little screams. He’s teething, so I can’t blame him. The teeth are getting closer to breaking through. His gums are more firm now than they were a few days ago. I feel for my little guy… and myself. This teething business is tough!

     So, we have 38 days and 12 hours until Christmas. Wow! I want my shopping done sooner than last year. I’m praying this Christmas will be better than last. We all had the stomach flu. Jack and I were throwing up on cue at 15 minute intervals. What an awful mess. Andy started in the day before and Joe missed the puking but had the aches. I was still fighting some morning sickness at the same time. We all slept on Christmas pretty much. We didn’t go anywhere. We took a 4 hour nap in our bed. All of us piled together. That was so tough. We were out for days! I think it was 5 before we were better. I can’t wait for this year. Hoping we can enjoy a real Christmas!!

  We made a run to Burlington on Saturday and I was running behind by a bit. I was supposed to meet Joe at work at 3. On our way out of town we came upon an accident probably 10 minutes or less old. I couldn’t help but think that if we weren’t running late could we have been involved in that. It makes me shiver thinking about it. Or, if we were running on time, maybe it could have been prevented. Either way, it’s kind of scary.

  I’m signing off to do my Monday housework. Tomorrow is the crown lengthening surgery. A little nervous, but I know it needs to be done and over with.

"Of course they have arms!"

       There are many things in life I am thankful for. Today I am thankful for the ability to try and better myself. I think I do a pretty good job of shaping situations to learn from them and try to be a better person. Maybe that's something everyone does and I just don't know it. I'm all locked up in my domestic engineer palace here. I'm not letting down my golden hair out the window though.
       I find myself wanting to do everything (minus dangerous activities -like roller coasters. I am a mother now, you know). I want to learn everything. I think I'm finally read to learn to drive a 5 speed. I had this weird notion when I was younger that I would die after I learned how. I am over that. It reminds me of other things I would do, like see how fast I could run to the fridge and back to my room. See if I could keep it under 10 seconds. I counted everything out in numbers for some reason, and how fast I could do them. Funny that I do not like numbers now. My brain doesn't have what it takes to align them properly. I pray my kids have my husband's mathematic mind. I don't know though. Just 2 days ago Jack was sitting in our room doing something, I think putting his pants on- and he started counting. I know I jerked my head up to see what he was counting. Nothing. Nothing at all. Just timing himself.
       Why is there no spell check? I find my self avoiding words because I don't want to check the proper spelling even though I know a certain word would fit much better.
        Sometimes I get really busy into my cleaning and I just think about things. If I concentrate too much on cleaning in my head it gets really annoying. Sometimes Jack will ask me something and I'll just say "yes, uh huh." because I'm busy. He asks so many questions it nearly drives me mad sometimes. And then he rephrases it to make sure that I understood, and then he'll repeat the answer back to me. It takes 5 minutes for one question I tell you.
     So today I am cleaning off the stove and thinking about the spots of food I'm trying to scrub off, and at the same time talking to myself pretending to talk to someone else (you know what I mean)- trying to figure out the best way to verbally explain something to them. Jack and Andy are having their lunch behind me of peanut butter and jelly when Jack asks me a question, "Sharks have arms, Mom?" Mindless me (laughing a little) "What do you think? Of course they have arms, Jack." (still laughing to myself at such a silly question) Then all of a sudden I realize I've infiltrated my sons head with something so wrong! He must be so confused. His love for sharks is amazing and he must have noticed there are so arms on a shark and now he's second guessing his observations. I had to quickly correct myself and tell him sharks do not have arms, they have fins. Of course that leads to repeating what I said and then asking again to make sure he understood my correction. Oh, it would have been so much easier just to pay attention to his question the 1st time. This isn't the 1st time this has happened either. I always laugh afterwards though.
       Now Jack is asking me if lions have sharp teeth like sharks. I said yes, and went back to typing and then he asked "they do?" "Yes". And then he asks "They can go underwater like the sharks?" I nearly said "yes". See!! He traps me in "yeses!". I can't be totally at fault here.
      I'm off to order pictures of the boys to send out to family. It feels like ages ago we were on vacation, but it hasn't even been a month yet.

Happy Friday the 13th!

30 days hath September, April, June and November.

     Dang, I hate missing a day. I feel like I lose time. But that's something I should be used to by now. Today I'm going to talk about lingerie. If that makes you uncomfortable, don't read it. I'll give you plenty of warning. It's going to be a long one

      We got our new mattress Tuesday, and it's fantastic. If only we could get to bed before midnight now. It's going to be a goal today to get in there by 10. The bed is so tall now! I love it. I feel like I'm staying in some luxurious (it's the word of the day today, so watch for it in other areas of the blog) hotel. The bed feels like a giant pair a lips kissing my body. I can't think of another way to describe what it feels like. It's not overly soft, and not overly firm. It's just kissing. A new comforter is now going to be a high priority. We've been using our full size comforters on our queen bed for 2 and a half years, and now the bed is even taller, and it's just not covering it.

        We toasted the other mattress that same night. Up in flames it went. I stepped out to take a picture and over my head, so silent it was eerie, flew a large bird. It landed in a tree near the fire, and only then did I realize it was an owl. They move so quietly. So, this owl prompted my thinking about the saying "wise as an owl". So, what makes an owl wise? Nothing. They have very small brains relative to their body. The saying perhaps dates back to the Greek Goddess of Wisdom....Athena. She was often depicted with an owl. Why the Greeks associated an owl with her wisdom is, from what I can guess, because they were mysterious. Animals of the night. Large eyes taking in everything around them. A head that can turn 270 degrees either way. It's a pretty amazing animal... but certainly not a wise one. Either way, I still think owls are an awesome sight to see.... especially with their luxurious feathers.

        If you have a Hy-Vee near you, check out the weekly circular (you can sign up for it to be e-mailed to you on their website) they are having some awesome deals tomorrow for "Friday the 13th". Hamburger Helper for $.89 anyone?! Sign me up for that! Eight ounces of shredded cheddar....... $1?!? Braeburn apples $.49/pound? Butter Kernel veggies $.49/can? Sign me up for that! BOGO sales? Yes! I will be there tomorrow. I can't miss out on these things!! All things we use often in our home. Go Hy-Vee! So luxurious!

      Oh, moving on to the child section of my blog. My kids... I love them so. Jack is so funny. Not intentionally, but innocently. Yesterday Jack and Andy found a dead lady bug. Those nasty, smelly, not so luxurious things. Jack put it in the fish tank and he says, "Fish like to eat lady bugs." I tell him, "No, not that kind." Where he replies "Not that kind of lady bug?" "No, Jack, that kind of fish." I was telling Joe this and he thought the exact same thing. Oh, my J boys. On more kid notes, Andy ran into one of their dressers yesterday. Really bumped up his head. He was screaming, and I can only imagine it hurt so terribley bad. I kissed it until I could kiss no more. That really isn't possible. My kisses are never ending for my kids. But I could only do it so long jumping back and forth between him and Mr. Alex who is totally teething, and not happy about it. He is Exersaucer-ing now!

**Lingerie warning!**Lingerie warning!**Lingerie warning**

     Don't say I didn't warn you. Ok, so I've never had anything pretty or sexy-like besides my bridal set I got at Walmart 5 years ago. Yes, it still fits, by the way, but I wanted to upgrade to something a little less newlywed, and more 5 years of bliss and 3 kids later. Something to remind me I'm more than a wife and mother. I am a woman.

        I dropped the hint to Joe last month and said it would be really nice for Christmas. I was NOT expecting something expensive or fancy. My husband went the extra TEN miles and purchased something for me at Victoria's Secret. Ooo, it was LUXURIOUS! The red robe was heavenly. I've not had anything that caressed my skin that way, that I can recall. Also in the bag was a red baby doll top and underwear.
       Well, the underwear fit, but the top did not. I was crushed! I had to tell Joe it didn't fit. He was a little upset (only because of me, not for his own reasons, just to clarify) because the sales person assured him it would fit my size. Not so much.
       We went back up to Victoria's Secret last night and I returned the set. Only after much searching and roaming through the land of lingerie to find they carry nothing like this in my size. I seriously must wonder HOW this is possible! The carry XS, S, M, L. That's IT! Tell me how many XS women you know, besides teens?! And, you can not mix and match if you ever have a problem with the upper not matching the downer.     
      I was nearly in tears in there to have something so pretty dangled in front of me and the ripped away! They had regular old pajamas and tanks, but that's not what I wanted. I wanted something a little nicer. I e-mailed "Victoria" last night and spoke of my venture and disappointment. The average bra size was 36C last time I checked. Wouldn't it make sense to go the same amount of cup sizes both ways around that? Oh well. I still love their bras. I did get something for me. I found it a JCPenney by Ambrielle. It's not as sexy, but the material was so..... luxurious. I'd show a picture, but it's not listed on the JCP website for some reason.
       I'll probably do more shopping at Penney's now in that area after this experience. And as a bonus, the prices are even similar to Victoria's Secret! Yes! I kid you not! I actually did get the set on sale though. I did keep the robe. It is awesome, and that at least fits. I should have suggested to Vicky to create a plus size store, or a store for more "blessed" women. Victoria's Supple Secret. Ah, that would have been good.

**End Warning**End Warning**End Warning**

       I've been wearing this new fragrance from Bath and Body Works "p.s. i love you". I hated it at first spray, but once it dried it smelled yummy. I snuck into BBW last night and spritzed on their Eau de Toilette since I heard that smelled smoother than the body splash. YES! It does. It smells so luxurious. Like I've just walked through a garden with roses being whisped on my skin. It's going on my Christmas list, or birthday list. I've also read the Eau de Parfum is even better, but I didn't see that in the store anymore. I think it was a limited time only thing. I missed the limit, dang. I didn't want to wash my wrists. It was so delicious. I was drawn in by their new Evergreen candles. Oh, it was a beautiful blend of aromas. If I closed my eyes I could have been in an evergreen forest. It was not hard and pungent, it was beautiful. Like pine in the breeze. Mmmm. Go smell it yourself.

Eau de Parfum

Eau de Toilette

I like dragonflies and I found a dragonfly necklace at Penney's! It's so pretty. Keeping my eye on it for markdowns in the future. No picture of that either on their site! What gives? Maybe it's too cheap to list. OH! But look what I found? *gag* Eat it up Obama lovers.

It's kind of a down day around here, but I will find something to do.... such as getting the laundry room ready for redoing! We got sheet vinyl last night and I am so excited to finally get that room done, and the bathroom down there as well. Life is still pretty good considering all other issues. I still have my health (which is what I am thankful for today), my family, my sanity and many other luxurious things.

"I'd come back with cabbage"

      What am I thankful for today? Today I am thankful for my sister, Amy. She still has a child-like mind about her, the same one I posses as well, and it makes things so much fun with her. She’s not afraid to say silly things along with me. Oh, it just makes me laugh to no end when I think about what she says and does. One of my favorite quotes by her is “I’d come back with cabbage.” when asked to do something she doesn't know much about. Story. She was sent out when she was a teen for lettuce. She ran into my husband there (not married yet) and he told her to make sure it was small and firm. Well, I guess that’s cabbage for you. Yes, she bought cabbage. I’m laughing about it now. Oh, I love her so. I’m thankful for my parents for wanting to have more children to share memories with. This one’s for you Amy, my seastar, “It’s like a baby doll”. Just laugh.


      I am anxious for Joe to get home so we can get the mattress all set up and just... lay.... there. I can hardly wait to float off to dreamland tonight.

       Jack and I are starting a little bit of preschooling now. We got the Hooked on Phonics program at Stuff Etc. earlier this year for $20!!! Brand new.... everything still in there. It's working out awesome so far. Jack really enjoys it, and it's just perfect! He's started reading some of the 3 letter words in there. He even read me the 1st little story in the workbook! Of course it was composed of 3 letter words, but he's getting it, and I couldn't be happier mother right now.

        I'd really like some brown boots. I have a pair of the Ugg look-a-like Skechers, and I LOVE them, but the soles are coming off! I haven't even had them for 2 years. Yeah, I wear them a lot, but this should not be happening. I don't know if it's something that can be fixed or I should just get a new pair. Anyway, I'm talking about boots with a heel. Not a tiny heel like my black ones though. I love the look of the cowboy boots, especially to wear with my dresses in the spring and fall. Any ideas? I saw some at Fashion Bug I thought were really cute.

       On another fashion note, check out Annie Swarm Art by clicking the icon in my side bar. I love that spiral scarf she has listed and I'll have to get me one soon. It's so pretty. She's got some other awesome stuff there, too. I can't decide between the thick and chunky one of the spiral one. Some thinking must be done.

      Andy is behind me right now holding the receiving end to Alex's monitor. He pushes it around and pretends it's a train. Jack just talks and laughs into it, as if Alex can hear him. Kids.

I did get an e-mail and my computer has been shipped. I can't wait to get it so I can finally use the printer.

       My friend Nicki and I went for a walk today with the kids out at East Lake. It was really nice. I haven’t walked to trail that far before. It was really nice. That is until we turned to go back and Andy decided he needed to be held. I’d hold him and push the stroller for a bit and then I’d have to put him down… and he’d cry again. Thank goodness Alex was reasonable and Jack was fantastic.

     The prosthodontist called me on our walk to check in with my status on getting the crown lengthening surgery done (it got pushed back from 2 weeks ago to the 17th because the doctor was ill). He’s a really nice guy. He used to be a photographer. Now he’s into teeth…. who knows. Anyway, he said he’d call back at a better time because Andy was crying. He had fallen down and I assured Ben (pros.) that it was no big deal. He wrapped up the conversation with “Enjoy your walk.” I respond “You, too.” Of course the second those words come out of my mouth I’m thinking about how dumb I must have just sounded. I try so hard to not make mindless comments like that. I guess I was busy.

 


 
  

Long weekend

    

   That was a long weekend to come out of. All I did was watch the kids an additional day by myself. I think it really took it out of me. My wrists are sore along with my elbow and shoulder. Joe was up working on my grandparent's roof Saturday and Sunday, and I'm pleased to say the project was completed thanks to all those who came to give their time, and weekend, for this. Thank you!

  The boys' beds are up and running. Night 2 went better than night 1 as expected. And it should only get better in time, I'm sure.

    How about that Indian summer? I was so excited. I put on a dress I got on sale at JCPenney ( $1.50 ) and I was so comfortable all day yesterday in it. THAT is the fall I think we missed out on this year. I wish there would be more days like that, but I think we've seen the end. And that makes me sad. But, the world keeps turning, so I must embrace the change.

   Tomorrow we get our new mattress! I can not wait. I am so excited to finally be able to really enjoy a good sleep.
   I can not believe how quickly Alex is growing. He'll be FOUR months next Monday..FOUR! It amazes me how quickly time passes once they get here. I love his chunky little thighs, and his sweet grins and giggles. And I know it's only a matter of time before he starts asking questions like "God made farts?" (Jack).

  My children are up and it's time for me to turn my time back over to them. Have a good day everyone!

I stink at blog titles

I usually try and wait until my blog is written before I add a title, just because most of the time I don't really know what all I'm going to say. Not today. I just threw that one up there. I can't imagine one better right now.


What am I thankful for today? For Jack's Doodle Pro. My grandma got it for him for Christmas last year, and that is hands down his single most favorite toy. He draws constantly on it. Everything, anything! It's easy to take on trips with us as well. It's fantastic.


I found a good quote a couple of days ago while I was making a 2010 planner purchase at Barnes & Noble. "Go confidently in the direction of your dreams." -Henry David Thoreau. I found out the rest of the quote was "Live the life you've imagined. As you simplify your life, the laws of the universe will be simpler". It was on a book mark and I thought it was fantastic. It caught my eye because of the bright orange print and I was looking for a better book mark besides a scribbled on 4x6 note card. I decided that $6 was too much to pay for half a quote in pretty writing, so it's on my note card now... along with the scribbles. Maybe one day I'll make a nicer book mark.


It just really hit home with me. I have desires and dreams like everyone else, and only recently have I started going confidently. I am the only one who can do this. I actually feel like I am doing something with my life. Of course I am a mother, of course I am a wife. I'm speaking strictly in the selfish sense about an individual desire of my heart. I like to keep pushing myself to try new things, to experience more; to taste other kinds of ice cream besides my favorite. That's not meant literally. I really don't like ice cream. It's too sugary creamy for my taste. I do like shakes though.... and malts. I eat ice cream from time to time, but not often. Kind of like chocolate. Stupid chocolate.


So, we got bunk beds for the boys last night. It was a quick trip to Coralville to get them. They look great. I was hoping for wood, but at the price we got them, it's worth it for red metal. I think I'm more excited than they are.


I'm thinking of getting Jack into dance. I just know he would do great. He loves to dance, and I think it would be right up his alley. Ah, I can only imagine how cute he would be.






On another off note (I have lots of those) have you noticed how the CAPTCHA, which stands for Completely Automated Public Turing test to tell Computers and Humans Apart..... I don't get it. It should be CAPTTTTCAHA, which would be way more fun to say. Why is "test" not important, but "apart" is? Anyway.... they are becoming actual words instead of random letters. I'm thinking of naming my son Brockton Chester after a CAPTCHA on Facebook and my daughter Fleesara after a CAPTCHA on Blogspot. It's coming, you just wait and see. The new hot trend I tell you. If you're looking for a 1st and middle name, try Facebook. Keep posting until you get the message. If you're only looking for a 1st name and are leaving the middle name to that of a relative, try Blogspot. What others have you noticed? I think they are hilarious. I can see it now on the shelves of book stores "The CAPTCHA Name Book".


   I'm off to edit more pictures. I spent most of the day cleaning, and now I'm off to edit. Then after Andy and Alex get up it's off to see Joe and family working on the roof, and then off to wash the van.






   

Mattresses! Pillows!

     Another beautiful morning is upon us! And another day to be thankful. Today I'm thankful for TV News Bloopers ( Favorite Video! ). If I can keep laughing at the little things in life, I'll continue to feel the happiness I feel everyday.



Well..... I'm not getting my Dell this week (DUDE! I'm not gettin' my Dell!). The e-mail that was sent was to inform me the printer will be here this week. Yes. The printer. Because we all know the printer can and should be used right away. Like an appetizer, no? I'm curious as to why the printer is coming first. I should have read the e-mail better. Bad, bad habit of mine. I read over things too quickly, and regret it later. Not only that, but I misread things so badly! The random question I answered on my profile started out "Lionesses have no manes." But what I read over and over again was "Loneliness has no manes." What? Is this some profound quote I never knew about? "Loneliness has no manes. But it has a hair brush." I don't know. As much as I read books I would think this wouldn't be an issue. But the fact the printer is coming before the computer kind of reminds me of this new quote.... "Loneliness has no manes. But it has a hair brush." It works in my head.


We finally picked out a mattress and will be getting it on Tuesday! After going to the Serta store and laying on beds, and then to the Lebeda store to lay on beds, and then back to Serta and then back to Lebeda... we decided on a Lebeda. Iowa made, and that bed was awesome. Joe and I both loved the memory foam beds, but they were a little to high in price for us. We went with Monterey Pillow Top. It has 2 inches of memory foam on top. Wish I could post a link, but that bed isn't up and running their site at the moment. It was HEAVEN laying there. The sales man also let me have a pillow with the mattress. I am HIGHLY recommending the latex foam pillows to ALL! Both of the sales people at the stores use them. Neither one tried to sell me on it, when I laid down, I just new I had to have that pillow. I don't think I have ever slept on a pillow worth more than $5. For the last 2 months I've had serious neck pain. I couldn't turn my head in certain ways with out severe pain. I woke up this morning and 70% of the pain was GONE! I hope in time it will go completely away. I'm sure the new mattress will help as well. Oh, that pillow is awesome!


Well, my printer just got here. That was a painful experience. One of our cats is very easily freaked out. She jumped up out of the chair when the delivery man rang the door bell. Well, I saw him coming so I was already on my way to the door. Dumb cat ran right out in from of me into my foot. My ankle is throbbing!! I can only imagine the cat is probably in a large amount of pain. Stupid cat. That's going to leave a large mark on my ankle. Ow.


We made it to Hobby Lobby last night. We got Alex's 1st Christmas ornament, and our 2009 ornament. You know what drives me crazy? People who crowd at check outs. Hello!!! She's still ringing up my items! Your coat is touching my arm!! Your perfume is going to make me pass out! BACK OFF! I wonder what makes people think that I'm going to move any faster. I might just move slower. Have some patience people! Wait your turn. No need to see what's in my purse. It's just the basics, I promise. Wallet, lotion.... mace..... Oh, yeah… you saw that!? I might just use it if you don’t back off! I should have just said the people behind me are paying. I mean, no one would ever get THISCLOSE to anyone unless they knew each other... surely.


The cat looks dazed. I think her eyes are looking different ways now. Ow. Well, it was another busy morning in our home. We went to MOPS this morning, and now we are home eating lunch. After Andy and Alex take a nap, Jack and I are going to clean out the van!
 

   Have a good rest of the day, everyone. Keep on dancin' :)

Fall

      It feels like fall is already coming to an end. It's very sad. It's the shortest season in my mind, and my favorite. It will end here in a few weeks with Christmas things coming out. I often think about decorating a tree with fall ornaments. They have some very cute ones at Hobby Lobby! I love the orange glittery maple leaves. It's an idea. But I don't know if I'd want it to clash with all the green and red. Winter is not here until December 21. Not that there is anything wrong with winter, I love it, too. But why ruin a good thing too soon? It doesn't matter; I'll still be ruining it right after Thanksgiving anyway.
      I was staring at the naked trees behind our house last night just before sunset. It was beautiful seeing the contrast of the branches against the fiery sky (I think the best sunsets are in February, as far as colors go, though). I looked around and saw we can now see our neighbors' houses behind us. Their beautiful homes. This also means they can see all our junk. Dang it. My thoughts shifted to how and when we are going to get that cleaned up. Poor neighbors, poor, poor neighbors. We'll also have to close the blinds when we dance in the kitchen now.
      I love the frost in the morning. I've got to get out there sooner so I can get some pictures of it on the pumpkins before the sun gets to it. It's so pretty. Glistening like diamonds on every little strand of grass that needs to be cut.... still. It turns the fallen leaves in to masterpieces of beauty again. Fall is full of so many changes. I adore each one.
     I'm going to miss looking out the window and seeing corn in the fields. It's like a buffer between the ground and sky. But, it's still a change I have to embrace.
     On to more exciting things! I got an e-mail last night and the Dell (DUDE! I'm getting' a Dell!) has been shipped. It will be here this week! I can't wait to put all my files and programs on it. I should probably clean up my stuff before then. I'm a pretty organized person. I try to be with the computer, but it's where I need to most work. Thanksgiving resolution, maybe.
      Speaking of Thanksgiving, on to Day 5 of thankfulness! Today I am thankful for God's handiwork in nature. The beauty He achieves. He does the most amazing job of blending colors and creating views and smells that take my breath away (minus that of the cows). Looking out on the country side at the silhouette of barns and silos at sunset or gazing at my sleeping children with dim light kissing their round cherub cheeks. How I love those moments God gives to me. I hope I never take them for granted.
   I kind of bounced around this morning. I don't have a lot of time since the kids got up early.... again. I'm thinking about putting black garbage bags over their windows.

Dell.... Halloween.... not much.

       I'm gettin' a Deeee-eeeeell.. I'm gettin' a Deeeee-eeell! DUDE! I'm gettin' a Dell! My sister informs me this morning that the guy that used to do those commercials got busted for dope and couldn't continue. What a bummer... what a waste of a perfectly good slogan!
    So, I ordered my Dell online last night. I love how I was able to build it to ME! I love custom things. Too bad I couldn't make it orange like I could with the Inspirons. But, it's what's inside that counts!! I can always paint it. (I'm kidding) My favorite thing about the order was the last page, though. Ever heard one of those automated messages that insert your name with a computer? "To confirm the appointment for *robot voice* Amber *end robot voice* please press 1 now".  That's what it's like. Only in words. In fairly small gray print it says "thank you" and under that in large black print is "AMBER" (yes, in caps) and then it goes back to the little gray print "for your order....". I just heard that little computer voice in my head when I read it. Anyway, it made me laugh....
     WHOA! Am I ever thankful for the auto save! My window just closed! I was kind of upset until I remembered it saves it for me periodically.
 
  Halloween was fun. We don't really do much but go to the Pumpkin Patch Party, and stop off to see my great grandparents and my mom. Here are some Halloween pics of the kids! Jack and Andy were doctors (I know... sooo original. I'll do better next year) and Alex was a monkey.

"aww, love it!" -Andy

I don't know what he was pointing to.

This one just makes my heart happy.

And now for a few at the party (I need to work on the sizing of these beforehand)

      I call this one "Daddy-do-it-all" He claims he can do anything I can do. But he won't say "better". That is a good man. No, a GREAT man. He gives me so much more than I think I deserve. I am so blessed.