Living the Life with the Wife of Riley

Is That Inspector Clouseau???

2010-10-01T10:13:00.004-05:00

No, it's just me.

Every morning, I make Matt draw a mustache on the inside of my finger. I think it's hysterical and I'm immature like that.

I'm thinking I should just get a tattoo of my little mustache.

An Update on Matt

2010-09-30T07:45:00.005-05:00

Matt is doing really well. After he spent 4 days in ICU and then another 3 days out of ICU but still in the hospital, they finally let him go home. Then it was my turn to take care of him. I felt like the time they just sent me home from the hospital with a newborn. What am I suppose to do now????

He was sent home with a Life Vest. It's actually a defibrillator vest that he has to wear all the time. If his heart suddenly stops, it will shock him. He has to wear it for 3 months, and if his heart functions don't improve, they will implant a defibrillator inside his chest. The funniest thing is the way this thing looks when he wears it. For the first week, if he had his shirt off, the girls and I would walk past him saying "Nice bra!"

The only diet restrictions he is on right now is his sugars. He as type 2 Diabetes and, from what I could tell, the meds that he was on before wasn't really controlling it. He now has to give himself insulin injections after each meal. It's not too bad changing our diets, I found a lot of great recipes online and I bought a cookbook named 1001 delicious recipes for Diabetics. I am also trying to cook fish at least once a week. This is huge because I HATE fish. But I am willing to try it for the sake of his health. We also take a walk as a family after dinner.

The biggest lifestyle change is that Matt and I have both quit smoking. I know that we should have done this a long time ago, but it took something this major to finally get it through our thick skulls! I am officially 2 weeks smoke free!!!! (Matt's a little longer because I finished off the carton that we bought before the heart attack.)

It's not as hard as I thought. We just have to remember if he smokes, he dies. If I smoke, he dies. Easy peasey lemon squeezey!!!

The worst part was that poor Matt had to spend his birthday in the hospital. But I tried to make the best of it for him. I brought him some party hats and his birthday present consisted of board games and card games. I sat in the hospital with him all day and played games with him. I also took a few pictures.

He just went for his "post heart attack" stress test, and the doctors were impressed with how well he's doing. There are 5 phases to the stress test, and he got through 3/4 of the 3rd phase. Most victims only get through 2 phases.

It's a long road, but we are all heading down it together and Matt is doing great.

Class of 1990!!

2010-09-28T12:05:00.004-05:00

This Saturday, I am suppose to attend my 20 year class reunion. When I RSVP'd a month ago, I was excited! I mean I had a month to drop a few pounds, get a new outfit, and basically glam myself up, right?

WRONG!!!!!! Since I RSVP'd, I have not had a moment to myself! In fact, up until yesterday, I had forgotten about it completely.

Now here we are, less than 5 days away and I am stuck. My roots are out of control and I can't get into the salon. I don't have anything spectacular to wear, and needless to say, I haven't been to the gym in months.

What's a girl to do? I called my friend DeeDee and told her that I feel too fat and ugly to attend.

Her response was "GET OVER IT!!!"

She asked me if there were people going that I really wanted to see? I said yes and she said. "Do you really care what they look like now or if they gained some weight since high school?"

No! I couldn't care less if they gained weight. They were my friends and I would love to see them again!

So, I'm going to stop being so vain, go and have a good time.

This is what I looked like back in the day. (I'm the blond one) If I look any different than this, it can only be an improvement. LOL!

Thump...Thump...Is This Thing On?

2010-09-27T13:23:00.003-05:00

Is there anyone out there????? Can you hear me????? Do you even care anymore????

Life has definitely thrown us some curves this last year. I am currently not employed but I definitely am working. Between my father, my family and now a great uncle, I am busier than a one-armed paper hanger!

First the good news, after a year and a half of driving him to and from work, Uncle Jim FINALLY got a car!!!!

Emerson started middle school and Vivienne started Kindergarten. They both seem to be enjoying it.

Matt got a new job with his company so he is now in the office. Which didn't come a moment too soon. Because on Sept. 4th Matt suffered a massive heart attack.

He's fine now and on the fast road to recovery (he wrote a post about it). But I can't tell you how scared I was.

I also have a great uncle whom I have been looking after. His name is Tom, he's 82 and lives alone, so we started doing odd jobs for him.

Last week, I went to the DMV to get his vehicle sticker. I called him to ask him a question and it turned out that he was stuck in bed with a twisted knee. I wasn't able to get into the house, so he had to try to open the window and throw me the keys. When I got in there, he couldn't get up to get anything to drink or eat. He couldn't get his meds that were in the kitchen or my phone number, He was trapped and I don't know what would have happened if I hadn't called him!

His "twisted knee" turned out to be an infection in his knee replacement. He is still in the hospital and called me almost hourly when I am not there with some problem.

Last night it was because he believed that his penis had disappeared. I went there this morning and assured him that it was still there without actually having to verify it. The meds that they have him on make him a little loopy.

Now that the kids are back in school, and Matt's back at work, I have a few minutes for myself. I am going to blogging again and I will be over to read all of you guys too.

Johnny Depp Monday!

2010-04-05T00:00:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone had a nice Easter.

Another one from Ladystyxx. Thank you!

Johnny Depp Monday!

2010-03-29T00:00:00.000-05:00

Thank you Ladystyxx!!!

Small, And A Little Humorous Glimps Into My Current Life.

2010-03-27T09:59:00.003-05:00

I know, I've been a very bad blogger. For a while I just lost interest in doing it. It makes me wonder if I had been suffering from some sort of depression, they always say that it's a sign when you suddenly lose interest in things that you normally love to do. I don't know.

Anyway, I wanted to catch you guys up in what is going on around here.

Emerson and Vivienne are still doing very well in school. They both seem to love it, which makes life just a little easier.

Emerson, who is turning 11 on April 19th, (11 going on 30) is really looking forward to middle school because they don't have to wear uniforms. Her current school is the only public school in the district that requires uniforms. She has told us that she doesn't want anything big on her birthday, she wants to wait until July so she can have a big "back to school" shopping spree at Justice. The current style she would like to emulate is Selena Gomez/Alex from Wizards of Waverly Place. (which is really cute in a non-slutty sort of way)

She is so smart and witty, it just amazes me! We were watching the news when they announced that Tiger Woods was going to hold a press conference and make a public apology, and this is what she said.

"Tiger Woods owes me nothing. No apology, no explanation. He only needs to apologize to his wife, it's none of my business."

I just love that!!!

Matt came out of the bathroom after he shave his beard off and asked the girls if they noticed anything different.

Girls: "Um...No."

Matt: " Do you notice anything missing on me"

Emerson: "Your dignity?"

I honestly laughed for about an hour!!!

Vivienne's current obsession is still KISS. We gave her KISS action figures for Valentine's day and her favorite thing to wear is her KISS t-shirt. When I drive her to school, I have to play Detroit Rock City on the MP3 player because "It gets me going in the morning, Mommy."

She also still has her imaginary friend, Stacy, and Stacy still get herself into some unusual predicaments.

Matt's work has slowed down and he is now 7 days on, 7 days off. It makes things a little tight. But we are managing.

As for me, there are still times that I find myself looking around to see if there are cameras following me like "The Truman Show".

I now go to the gym 4 days a week. Mondays are with my trainer Peter. He is a former Marine (although I've always heard once a Marine, always a Marine) He is very sweet, even though he KICKS MY ASS any chance he gets!!!!

The first week, he gave me a strength test, just to see what I could do. I couldn't walk for 2 days after that.

The second week, one of the exercises that he made me do was to "bear crawl" across the basketball court. That is crawling on your feet and hands. For 4 days, it was hard for me to get out of the car.

The third week, he put a resistance band around my waist and made me pull him across the basketball court like a sled dog. Either he took it easy on me or I'm getting better because I wasn't nearly as sore as usual. I can't wait to see what's in store for me on Monday.

On Tuesdays and Thursdays, I do the homework that Peter assigned for me. He has pain stakingly laid out a workout plan for me. 3 days working 2 different muscle groups a day. I also have to do 30 minutes of cardio on all 4 days that I go to the gym. He told me that I could for go one of the days if I took a class. I take flow yoga on Fridays.

So far, I have lost 11/2" off my bust, 3 1/2" off my waist, 1 3/4" off of my hips and 6lbs.

One of the reasons I joined this particular gym was because they have a pool, sauna, steam room and a whirlpool. And it's only $39 a month with no contracts. I do pay extra for Peter, but if I wouldn't be doing nearly as well if I didn't have his guidance.

The first week, I decided that I was going to try out the pool. Even though it's been a while, I am an excellent swimmer and figured it would be easy... I WAS WRONG!!! I could barely do a lap!!!! I would swim a little, mostly in side stroke, and then walk a lap. But each week, I am doing so much better. It has now gotten to the point where I don't have to walk at all, I just swim in both breast stroke and front crawl.

Last week, I found a race online. It's called The Warrior Dash. It's 3.17 miles with 12 insane obstacles. After you complete it, you get a warrior hat and a beer. You can check it out at www.warriordash.com it is all over the United States, so maybe one of you would be interested in running it too.

That should do it for now, I have some funny gym stories but that will give me something to write next week.

Johnny Depp Monday!!

2010-03-22T00:00:00.001-05:00

Well, I've been busier than a one armed paper hanger!! But, now we're on spring break so I have some room to breathe. I have a few stories from the gym that I want to tell you this week. But for now....

Johnny Depp Monday!

2010-03-15T08:53:00.003-05:00

What I wouldn't do for a stiff wind right now!

Review of Alice in Wonderland

2010-03-11T20:55:00.003-06:00

Sorry I haven't updated the blog in a while. As I've mentioned before, I've joined a gym and I have a trainer named Pete. Pete is a Marine and happens to be kicking my ass! I've been so sore that I hardly have been able to move my arms without seeing stars!

But day by day it's getting better, (I think). The good news is, I'm not quite at the end of week two, and I've lost 6 lbs. So it must be working, right?

But anyways, Matt, Emerson and I went to go see Alice in Wonderland last Sunday! (Vivienne did not join us, as she freaked out at the TV commercials and actually said, "I don't want to see that!"). Many of you have been wondering how I liked it, so here is a short review.

Johnny Depp... YUMMY!

How was that?... Oh, you want MORE?... Okay then...

I'll give you a little taste of the beginning of the film, but you'll need to see the film to get the "Wonderland" side of it.

When it came to bringing the whimsical world of Lewis Carroll's classic to life, Tim Burton was the perfect man for the job!

Tim Burton has always been known for his outlandish style, but nothing prepares you for the magical world of Underland that he has made for us to see. (And no, "Underland" is NOT a misspelling. It's explained VERY well in the film.)

The story takes place 13 years after the original story of "Alice in Wonderland". Alice is now a 19 year old young lady, still morning the death of her father, who died a year prior to the story at hand. She is now faced with having to accept the proposal, of a very homely looking young Duke, whom she does not love, only because her family doesn't want her to become a spinster and a burden on her aging and widowed mother.

All during these scenes, Alice thinks she's seeing things, as a white rabbit dressed in a blue vest is barely seen several different times, running through bushes and across the yards.

Running away, because she "needs a moment alone to think", she spots the rabbit again, and as she chases after it she happens upon a large hole at the base of a tree. When she goes to look down it, the ground around the hole gives way and the adventure truly begins.

All of the old favorites are back, the Caterpillar, Tweetle Dee and Tweetle Dum, The White Rabbit, The March Hare, The Door Mouse, Cheshire Cat, The Queen of Hearts and the one, the only Mad Hatter.

A few new characters are introduced to us, such as the White Queen and a few other surprises.

As we get to "Underland", no one thinks that Alice actually is "The" Alice. And Alice thinks they have the WRONG Alice and is convinced it is all nothing but a dream she can't wake up from for some reason.

The special effects are absolutely out of this world and the acting of Johnny Depp are equally impressive! (And NOT because I'm totally in love with him).

Johnny Depp's take on the Mad Hatter is a man with a split personality. A high pitched lisping madman at one moment and a low voiced distinguished Scottish gentleman the next. Sometimes even mixing to two voices in the same sentence. Absolutely amazing is the range of his performance!

I have no idea how I can look at someone with yellow eyes, blue eyelashes big bushy orange hair and looks like he is suffering from mercury poisoning and still be totally in love!

The one main thing I noticed in this film is that everyone, (and I mean EVERYONE, including young Alice), has dark circles under their eyes! Is that the new look? Dark circles??? Because if THAT'S the case then you can consider me totally fashion forward! LOL!

One more thing that I will mention is that, we did NOT see this movie in 3D. I get way to motion sick at things like that and didn't want to take the chance at having to leave during a Johnny Depp scene to go throw up.

I give the movie 5 stars and two big thumbs up! If you want a totally enjoyable 2 hours out, I will definitely recommend this movie to you!

Johnny Depp Monday

2010-03-08T16:30:00.002-06:00

Johnny Depp Monday!

2010-02-28T00:00:00.000-06:00

I joined a gym and today is my first appointment with my new trainer, Pete. He's a Marine. I'm scared!! Pray for me and I will update you tomorrow.

Johnny Depp Monday!

2010-02-22T00:00:00.000-06:00

I See This Kid Running Playboy One Day.

2010-02-18T00:00:00.000-06:00

Yesterday was my day to be Room Mom for Vivi's preschool. I do have to say, even though I come out of it exhausted, I do have fun with these kids.

There are 22 kids in the class and because last Wednesday was a snow day and they didn't have school on Monday due to President's day, they postponed their Valentine's day party until today.

This was very good news for me because that meant the other parents signed up to bring something and I didn't have to bring a snack.

It's not that I don't want to buy a snack, it's just that I tend to over think it. I really want the snack to be nutritious, but I also want the kids to like me the best. I usually try to bring Pirate's Booty, string cheese, pretzels, juice and fruit because I worry that some kids might have allergies or they prefer one to the other. (I am so neurotic!) The result is that these kids get a variable feast on the days I'm there. (I also gravitate to the non-messy food. A little trick I learn from years of being a "Backstage Mom" at dance recitals.) But, I didn't have to this time, all I had to do was show up with my kid and her valentines. Woo-Hoo!

We started out the morning with circle time. Because I was Room Mom, Vivi got to dress the paper frog on the bulletin board for the weather and put the date on the calendar (Both are very coveted jobs) We read a story about 2 Crazy Pigs that I found a tad disturbing. First the farmer and his wife kick the 2 pigs off the farm for being crazy and then moved to the city and abandoned the rest of the animals. Luckily, the pigs found a new farm and the rest of the animals were welcome there too. Phew!! I was on pins and needles for a minute there wondering what would happen to those poor farm animals!

After circle time, the kids went to go play and one of the teachers and I brought a few at a time to the table to decorate their Valentine's shoe boxes. This was fun because you got to talk to each of them one on one. The girls really like when I showed them how to glue a heart shaped doily on to a construction paper heart to make a lace heart.

Once everyone made a box, we set them to the side to dry while the kids played and the teachers and I cleaned up and set up for the party.

In order to distract a couple of the little boys from all the food on the table, I got on the floor with them and we played Dinosaurs vs. Soldiers. Within 5 minutes, all the kids were playing with me. Then we played "I bet I can clean up faster than you!" and made a big production when I lost.

Circle Time again!!! This time we dance the chicken dance and the kids did the limbo while I held the stick while the teachers set up the boxes in a line for the Valentine pass out. One by one we helped each child pass out their Valentines.

It was finally time to eat!!! For a special treat, they got ICE CREAM SUNDAES!!!!!!! I was in charge of the toppings. Each child lined up and they told me what they wanted and I put it on the ice cream. They were all so polite!!! Every single one of them said please and thank you.

After they ate, we lined up and went into the gym to let off some steam. Vivi's class is 4 and 5 year olds, but there is another class of 3 year olds. They all go into the gym to play together.

As I was running around with the kids, a little boy from the 3 year old class came up to me.

"You have big boobies!!!"

Then he ran into a group of other laughing 3 year olds.

I suspect that this child dons a silk robe and a pipe when he's at home.

Watch your back Hugh, there's a new kid in town!

This Must Be Why They Call It "Fat" Tuesday

2010-02-17T00:00:00.000-06:00

Today is Ash Wednesday, which means that yesterday was Fat Tuesday. Now, I don't know how the rest of the nation celebrates (Not you NOLA, I am aware of how you celebrate) but in Chicago it is affectionately know as Pączki day.

Here is the Wikipedia definition:

A pączki is a deep-fried piece of dough shaped into a flattened sphere and filled with confiture or other sweet filling. Pączki are usually covered with powdered sugar, icing or bits of dried orange zest. A small amount of grain alcohol (traditionally, Spiritus) is added to the dough before cooking; as it evaporates, it prevents the absorption of oil deep into the dough.
Although they look like bismarcks or jelly doughnuts, pączki are made from especially rich dough containing eggs, fats, sugar and sometimes milk. They feature a variety of fruit and creme fillings and can be glazed, or covered with granulated or powdered sugar. Powidła (stewed plum jam) and wild rose hip jam are traditional fillings, but many others are used as well, including strawberry, Bavarian cream, blueberry, custard, raspberry and apple.

In a word...HEAVEN!!!! My favorite are the ones that are filled with fresh strawberries and whipped cream

You can only get them this week. But, to me you should only eat a pączki on Fat Tuesday.

At 7:50am, my phone rang with my mother on the other end. She got up early and got over to Dinkel's Bakery on Lincoln Ave and pick up some for me. (Thank God, because there was no way I was getting up early when the kids were both off of school.) I just needed to come and pick them up at her work.

I needed to do a few things, so after I went and talked to Vivi's teacher (I'm room mom today and last week they didn't get to have their Valentine's day party because of the snow. They only go to school on Mondays and Wednesdays, so they are having it today since Monday was President's day) I stopped off at Mom's work. There they were in their pretty pink and white box with the string tied around it. My mouth started to salivate with just the thought of those deep fried little devils!

Because I was already in the neighborhood, I decided to go over to Tony's Italian Deli to pick up Vivi her "meat" (Kraukus ham, she can't get enough. She'll eat it every meal if I let her) I also had to take Uncle Jim to work.

This meant that my Pączki-induced coma was going to be delayed a bit. I carefully put them in the backseat so they were out of my sight. I really didn't want someone to pull up next to me at a stoplight and look over at me with my head stuffed into a bakery box...again.

I walked into the house.

Me: "Happy Pączki DAY!!!! I have Pączkis!!!!"

Emerson: "What are those?"

I open the box to let them bask in the goodness.

Emerson: "They're doughnuts."

Vivi (looking in the other bag I brought in) "Mommy, you got me MEAT!!!!"

Me: "They're are not doughnuts, they're Pączkis. That's Polish for 'better that doughnuts'"

"I got Raspberry and Strawberry with whipped cream."

Emerson: "But, we don't like jelly filled doughnuts."

Vivi: "YUCK!!"

Me: "They're Pączki!!!!!"

Vivi: "Mommy, you make me a samich?"

Emerson (turning her nose up at the bakery box) "Yeah, me too."

Oh well, more for me.

So, Apparently? I'm Twelve.

2010-02-15T21:40:00.002-06:00

As a frequent reader to this blog, you are probably aware that I am inclined to have fits of fancy. (Read: complete and udder obsessions) So recently, when I haven't been thinking about Johnny Depp, Twilight, Pin-up Girls, etc. I inadvertently became bat-shit crazy over two new things. (Sorry folks, I searched the Internet for a word that would be equivalent to Bat-shit crazy but nothing really compares.)

The first being an author named Jen Lancaster. She has wrote 4 hysterical books with a new one on the way this spring, I believe.

Bitter is the New Black

Bright Lights, Big Ass

Such a Pretty Fat

Pretty in Plaid

If you find me at all amusing, you definitely have to read her. (Really, go get the books)

She is a woman from Chicago, a little on the zaftig side who suddenly found herself unemployed with no place to wear her designer shoes. She started out blogging, and still does it. (Seriously...why haven't you gotten these books yet? Go...Go...I'll wait)

Her website is Jennsylvania.com

Because we're from the same 'hood, I am temped to go find (read: stalk) her. I know that we would be besties in no time. Matt however reminded me that I once thought Jenny McCarthy and I were going to be besties, but she wasn't that interested when I thrusted my pregnant belly in her face at a book signing. But, I digress.

Jen Lancaster...Read her...Love her.

The second thing that has thrown me into fits of giggles is something called a Penny-tee.

Now if any of you have ever watched the kid's show "ICarly" (and I know some of you do, admit it) you may know what I'm talking about.

A Penny-tee is a ringer t-shirt that is worn by the characters on ICarly. They have random words on them.

I looked all over the place to see if I was able to buy them. I found a few on Cafepress but instead of spending $22+ on one shirt, I just decided to make my own. I bought a few ringer tees at Old Navy for $6 a piece, some iron-on letters for about $3 and put Matt to work. (I'm upper management and he's labor) So far I have:

A blue one that says: Church Pants

A green one that says: Coffee Noodle

A purple one that says: Poodle Juice

A grey one that says: Elecric Ham (It was suppose to say Electric Ham, but Matt forgot to put on the "T". I just wear that one to bed with my SpongeBob pajama pants.)

So, there you have it. More proof that I am distracted by new and shiny things. As someone famous once said "I don't suffer from ADD, I simply...Oh look! A Squirrel!!"

Johnny Depp Monday!!

2010-02-15T00:00:00.000-06:00

I have been a very delinquent blogger. There is no excuse, but I am now moving forward. I have made a commitment that I will be back in the bloggy world starting today. I am going post more and more. I am a Narcissus and I need the attention. I can't guarantee that they'll all be literary gems, but they will be true stories. (As unbelievable as some of them are)

I will also be reading and commenting on everybody. So, put on your Sunday best kiddies, I'm coming over. (And if you could lay out some of those Mint Milano...that would be SUPER!!)

So, the first order of business to get me out of my blog funk is...

That just puts it all in perspective, doesn't it???

Johnny Depp Monday!

2010-02-08T18:33:00.002-06:00

Sorry this is a little late. We had a whole day of doctor and dentist appointments.

I don't know about Vanessa...but I'll CUT A BITCH!!!!!!

Johnny Depp Monday!

2010-02-01T00:00:00.000-06:00

Oh yeah...That's the stuff!

Hurricane Erin

2010-01-26T09:34:00.003-06:00

Things are starting to get back to normal this week. But last week? It is definitely going to take some time to recover.

The week consisted of Erin and I running around to help out with the preparations for the services. I spent a lot of time in the car, and a lot of money on gas.

At times, we were at each other's throats. But there were a few moments that made us laugh out loud.

She texted something to one of her friends at home and the friend wrote back, (y) yeah!

When she showed it to me, I said "Ass yeah?"

Well, that got us into a giggle fit and when she texted her friend to find out what it meant, they said it was suppose to be a thumbs up. That made us laugh even harder. So from now on Erin and my favorite saying is "ASS YEAH!!" We said it for everything!

On Thursday, Erin was feeling a little helpless so she offered to make Dad some oxtail soup. (basically a beef barley soup) I took her to the store and dropped her off at Dad's to start the soup while I ran some errands. When I got back, Erin realized that she wasn't going to be able to finish the soup because it actually has to be refrigerated overnight and she wasn't going to be back on Friday except for the wake.

So, on Friday morning after I picked up Uncle Jim, I had to go over to dad's and finish the soup.

On the way over there, I called her and yelled "Next time you volunteer to make soup, I'M GONNA PUNCH YOU IN THE NOSE!!!!"

Then we laughed really hard.

Johnny Depp Monday!

2010-01-25T00:00:00.002-06:00

I don't know about you, but I almost lost my shit yesterday!!!

As usual, I went on Bing.com to find a Johnny Depp picture, and this is what came up.

Johnny Depp Dies in Car Crash

OMG!!!! After I got out of the fetal position, I started clicking furiously, barely able to see through the tears in my eyes.

It was a HOAX!!! He is not dead. I repeat... NOT DEAD!!!

What would I have done???

So, here's a picture of the very much alive, Johnny.

Johnny Depp Monday

2010-01-18T00:00:00.000-06:00

With a heavy heart, I give you this week's Johnny.

We took my stepmom, Barb, off of life support yesterday and she passed peacefully in her sleep.

Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers.

The Gauntlet has Been Thrown!

2010-01-14T09:36:00.002-06:00

Yesterday was a little rough. It seems that all the men in my life decided to be a jerk.

First, I went to do my father's grocery shopping. My stepmother is still in the hospital, but she is out of ICU. We are no way out of the woods, but it is a step forward.

Anyway, I went to dad's to get his list. His best friend is staying with him, so there were things on the list for him as well. When I returned after the shopping they were eating a very nice breakfast of eggs and toast.

When I walked in carrying all the grocery bags this is what was said.

Dad: (loud and snarky) "You have got to be kidding ME!!!" "Did YOU want some breakfast???!!"

I thought to myself, "Well dad, with such a nice and warm invitation like that, how can I refuse?"

But instead I just said "No, thank you." and proceeded to put all the groceries away and leave.

When it was time to pick up Uncle Jim, he had me take him to Walgreens to get milk and back home to deposit said milk before he went to work. All the while telling me how bad my brakes were and they were getting worse. He didn't offer anything, in fact, he told me that he was not familiar with my brake system, so he couldn't help me fix them.

When I got home, I looked online to see if I could find anything about replacing brakes on a 2007 PT Cruiser. Low and behold, there was step by step instructions on EHow.com. I showed it to Matt and here's what he said.

Matt: "I'm not replacing the brakes on the car!"

Me: "Why not? Here are step by step instructions, they don't look that hard."

Matt: "Oh yeah? Then why don't you do it?"

Me: "FINE! I will!"

You would think that after 15 years, he wouldn't challenge me like that.

Don't worry folks, I have a plan!

In Preparation for Alice in Wonderland...

2010-01-12T00:00:00.000-06:00

I have apparently fallen down the rabbit hole.

Let me tell you about my day Saturday. At 4am I got up to take Uncle Jim, who still doesn't have a car, to work. I came home at about 5:15 and went back to bed until 8:30. I got up, made breakfast, and got Emerson ready. (Vivi was at my MIL's)

At 10:15am, Emerson and I left the house to drive downtown Chicago to my mother's house so she could go sledding with her friends. We got there at 11am.

From there, I drove back to my Northwest Suburb to pick up my father at 12pm to take him to the hospital.

It was now time to pick up Vivi. From the hospital, I drove 45 minutes south to the Target to meet my Mother-in-Law and to get Vivi. My father asked me to pick up a carton of cigarettes for him as long as I was going that way. (They have less taxes because they are in a different county)

Time to get Uncle Jim!!!! I drove the 45 minutes back to Home Depot to pick him up and take him home, but not without a stop at the grocery store so he can get something for dinner. When that was all done, it was 3pm and you know what that meant??

Emerson needed to be picked up! I had to get her at 4pm, so I had to bust my butt to get back downtown. When she was safely deposited in the car, we had to get moving because...

Dad needed to be picked up at the hospital at 5. I got him home, gave him is cigs, and went home where I promptly made dinner for the family. We had grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup. But, because I am allegedly trying to be SUPERMOM, the soup was homemade. ( I don't like Campbell's tomato soup and my recipe isn't difficult at all. If you want it, let me know.)

After dinner, we sat down to watch the movie Igor. I, of course missed most of it because I got a phone call.

When I first looked at the phone, I didn't recognize the number, I didn't even recognized the area code! Figuring it was just a wrong number, I picked up. Boy, was that a mistake!!!!!

On the other side of that phone was a voice that I haven't heard in real life in a while. (Although, I have heard it in my nightmares) It was my father's sister, aka my evil Aunt, calling me from Florida. (and she was drunk!!!)

We don't get along, we never got along, I don't plan on ever getting along.

Now, she was calling me to reminisce about my childhood, talk about my dad, tell me how she just got into the DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution), and to basically make sure to make me feel bad enough to keep doing what I'm doing.

She wants me to become a DAR, so I guess I could be a Lady who Lunches. The only problem is that I would only be able to lunch at Drive-thrus because...I NEVER GET OUT OF THE STINKIN' CAR!!!!!!!!!

I know, you are probably thinking that she was reaching out to me. No. This is how she works, she keeps her friends close and her enemies closer. I know this because, unfortunately, out of all of my relatives that I could have taken after, I took after her the most.

That's right, I am just like her. Luckily, because my mother is a saint, I am only half evil. I can throw one hell of a temper tantrum, but I feel really bad about it afterwards.

Speaking of my mother, after the call from EA (evil aunt), I texted my mother. Here's what she wrote back.

Omg, omg was she nice?

That's right folks, my mother has turned into a 14-year-old girl.

On Sunday, I took time for myself and took the girls to see Alvin and the Chipmunks the Squeakquel. And even though, I told my father that I was going to pick him up after the movie, it didn't stop him from calling me twice during the movie.

Thankfully, I listened to the dancing popcorn and turned off my cell phone.

Johnny Depp Monday!

2010-01-11T00:00:00.000-06:00

Just in case you haven't seen it.

My Absenteeism.

2010-01-08T10:43:00.002-06:00

I'm sorry for not being around lately. Things have been insane around here. My stepmother was taken to the Emergency room the Sunday after Christmas. Now she is in ICU. I have been driving my father to the hospital, doing his laundry, and just trying to help out in any way. Meanwhile, Matt went on nights, so he works 11pm to 7am and then sleeps during the day. He really likes it, but it's taken some time to get used to.

I don't believe I have been this busy when I was working!!! What is it about families? They find out you're at home and all of a sudden they think I'm available to do their bidding.

I am doing my best to stay positive. There were and are a lot of lies told by my father regarding my stepmother. I feel really stupid for believing them when they told me they weren't drinking. Well, now the proof is in the pudding, or in this case, the liver. He still won't admit it.

I'll try to be around a little more and to keep you updated. Hope everyone has a Happy New Year.

Johnny Depp Monday!!

2009-12-28T00:00:00.000-06:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday.

Johnny Depp Monday!

2009-12-21T00:00:00.001-06:00

If It's Not One Thing...It's Your Mother.

2009-12-16T16:21:00.003-06:00

Or in this case, my stepmother.

We have had a pretty tough year. In fact, it has been the worst year on record. I won't bore you with details, but most of it has to do with money. Although, we are far from out of the woods, we have taken the right steps forward.

I dealt with a major problem yesterday and just when things seemed to be headed in the right direction, I was literally bitch slapped with a new one today.

As most of you know, I do my father's grocery shopping on Wednesdays. Today, Vivi had her little holiday program at school and then I had to drive Uncle Jim to work. I didn't arrive at my father's until about 2.

There wasn't anything unusual about today's visit, the house was hot, the list consisted of toilet paper and soup. There was a problem though, my stepmother. She doesn't like to eat and from the looks of it, she hasn't eaten in a while. A long while.

She has always been thin, but my best estimate is that she now weighs about 89 lbs and she's 6 feet tall. I know, right???

She looks like a skeleton!!!! She also fell and hurt her back, so she is having a hard time walking.

I literally had my cell in my hand with 9 and 1 already pushed and my finger hovering over the 1.

The only way she could convince me to not call the ambulance is to promise to follow my eating plan for her. We went over things that she liked to eat and added them to the grocery list. She's a creature of habit so I wrote up a few small meals that I know she will eat. She has to eat 6 times a day and I made my father promise to tell me if she doesn't. I will go over there with a plumber's helper and a shovel to get it all in.

My father was trying to give her 3 large meals a day, but they overwhelmed her, mentally and emotionally she would already be full before she even started. 6 small meals is a much better plan for her, sort of like a diabetic. That way when she finishes something she has a little pride and is more likely to eat more.

After our talk, the look on their faces told me that I put the fear of God into both of them. I also said that if the plan is not followed, I am sure the hospital would be happy to put a tube in her stomach and pump food into it.

When we get her strength up, then I will make her walk with me and do some stretches so we can maybe fix her back a little. But even a car won't go if you don't put fuel in it.

I really hope this works because I would like to respect her wishes about going to the hospital. Although, I will have no problem making that call if it comes down to it.

Please keep us in your prayers while I police this matter more closely. At least this time it didn't have anything to do with money.

Things You Might Have Overheard at Our House.

2009-12-15T00:00:00.001-06:00

Matt: (walking in the door after work) "I got a tip from a MILF today!!!!"

Me: "Was it a MILF or a Cougar?"

Matt: "What's the difference?"

Me: "MILFs don't really need to tip, they get by on their MILFiness"

Matt: "What if a guy tips me?"

Me: "Well, he obviously likes the way you dance in your work pants."

_______________________________________________________

Emerson: (reading Little House in The Big Woods) "The dancing was so pretty and the music so gay... HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!"

Me: "Somehow, Em, I don't think they were talking the Village People." "There is another meaning to the word gay."

Emerson: "There is?"

Me: "Yes, it means happy or joyous."

Emerson: "Oh, then that's not really that funny."

_______________________________________________________

Vivi and I were sharing some Dove Promises and on each wrapper there is a little message, just like a fortune cookie.

Vivi got one that said "Share a secret over a Dove Promise"

Me: "Now you have to tell me a secret."

Vivi: "Okay." (in a whisper with her hand cupped by her mouth) "You're my best friend."

___________________________________________________________

Matt: "You know if you travel in time and you come across the past or future you, don't touch yourself because you can destroy the universe."

Me: "What are you talking about?"

Matt: "I'm just saying that if you travel in time, don't touch yourself."

Me: "That's some sound advice, but you better not do any time travel, you can't keep your hands off yourself."

Johnny Depp Monday!

2009-12-14T00:00:00.000-06:00

I'M BAAAAACK!!!!!!

We had some internet connection problems. It seems that a new cable company has been very busy putting up their cables and snipping any old phone line that gets in the way. I have my own theory about why our line got clipped but they mostly involve an anonymous jealous Johnny Depp fan and Matt is calling me paranoid.

Anywho, it took the phone company 2 weeks to get us back up and running.

In that time, I missed 2 Johnny Depp Mondays! (For shame!!!!) So, here is a good one for all of you.

This Week's Shopping Trip.

2009-11-27T11:15:00.002-06:00

Today's the day that I regale you with another installment of "Shopping for Dad", my weekly soap opera.

This week didn't have the drama of last week, but it wasn't without it quirks.

First, I am still sick with this cold and anything I do feels like a chore. Second, the girls are home this week, so they had to with me. And, finally, my dad's bizzaro list.

We got over there about 11am and he paid me up front, but not without a big production to show everyone he was giving me the money. ( I took it with my left hand) Then we went over his list and coupons. Meanwhile, my children were stripping they were so hot. My stepmother keeps the thermostat set at 81 degrees.

His list included, but was not limited to;

2% milk

whole milk

chicken thighs with the skin

about 25 different soups

turkey breast from the deli sliced medium

black angus beef from the deli sliced thin (but only if it was rare)

krakus ham sliced thin

2 Aveeno lotions

3 different loaves of bread

tealight candles

and an array of other goods.

It took us 45 minutes to do it and we were back at their house, sweating and putting the groceries away.

The one thing that did strike me as quite odd was that he had 12 rolls of toilet paper on the list. I just bought him 12 Charmin Big Rolls last week. How much toilet paper do two people need?

Yesterday, he called me to wish me a Happy Thanksgiving. (they refuse to go anywhere or do anything for the holiday) While we were talking he told me that if I was taking a trip to Sam's Club, Walmart, K-mart or any other store to give him a call. He might need me to pick up some items for them.

So, now as it turns out, I'm on call.

By the way, my mother finds this whole thing hysterical and calls me continuously to rattle off things she would like me to buy for her.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T11:59:00.002-06:00

To all my bloggy friends for whom I am truly thankful!

Johnny Depp Monday!

2009-11-23T10:25:00.002-06:00

Update: Matt is feeling better. No more wheezing and just a small cough is left.

And because it's par for the course, I'm sick. All I can say is "Thank God for Alka Seltzer Cold Plus!"

Now, I'm Starting to Get Really Worried...

2009-11-20T21:37:00.002-06:00

Matt is not any better. He has finished the Levaquin the doctors gave him and he still feels terrible. He has horrible headaches and when he sleeps he wheezes.

He doesn't want to go back to the doctor to spend more money on a co-pay.

If this was one of my kids, I would have had them at the doctor days ago. But how do you get a grown man to go? I'm at my wits end.

Where is Eddie Money With Those 2 Tickets to Paradise?

2009-11-19T22:45:00.002-06:00

I know that I'm not working right now, but I totally need a vacation. And not one with my family! They are making me NUTS!!!!

The girls have gone through their normal fall illnesses, colds, sore throats, coughs, etc. We have dealt with it. It's never fun when your children are sick, especially when you have clingy kids like I do. All they want is for me to hold them and usually both at the same time.

They are both healthy now, thank goodness. But now, my third and most needy child had pneumonia. That's right, it's Matt.

He is by far worse than both my kids and all of Kate Gosselin's kids rolled into one. (Especially that brat, Maddie) I am so done with the tissues, coughing, whining, moaning, and all around acting like an infant. I know he feels bad, but SUCK IT UP!!!!

I know I sound like the worse wife ever, but when I was feeling bad a few weeks ago, life went on. There was no one there to coddle me. In fact, both kids were sick too, so my illness took a back seat.

All I would like is to lay on a nude beach with Johnny Depp, is that too much to ask???? Come on Johnny, I know you read the blog, throw away that restraining order and come and pick me up. I'll make margaritas!!!

As I Always Suspected!

2009-11-19T00:00:00.001-06:00

I have been getting text messages, tweets, (or as I like to call them, twats, because I'm juvenile that way) facebook messages, comments and phone calls. All telling me what I have already know for many years now.

I can't wait to get my copy on Friday! And to think, I didn't have anything to do this weekend!

Congrats Johnny! You will always be the sexiest in my eyes!

Finally, the world has caught up to me!

It's Elementary Dear Watson!

2009-11-18T10:55:00.003-06:00

Recently, my father asked me to do their grocery shopping for them. He is not old or feeble, he just sort of doesn't want to do it anymore. He offered me a proposal to do their weekly grocery shopping for them and they would pay me $25 to do it.

I agreed to do it on Wednesdays because I drop off Vivi at preschool and I could swing by, get their list and go before I have to pick her up. And who couldn't use an extra $25 a week? That's bowling money.

When he asked me it was Monday and they were out of a few essentials like toilet paper. I told them that I would come over and get their list, go, and then do it on Wednesdays in the future. ( I truly am gunning for the first chair in heaven.)

I went, armed with coupons, and did the shopping. After I brought them into the house and unloaded for them, I left. That's when I realized that I forgot to get my payment. I fretted about it for a little while but decided to give dad a call in the morning. My plan was to tell him that I forgot to get it from them this time but the next time, I will just write the check over.

Good on paper, right? Not so good in real life. I called yesterday morning and said my little speech, this is what I got.

Dad: "I gave it to you!" "It was when you first got here and you put it in your pocket."

I have no recollection of this transaction. I checked the pockets of my pants, my jacket, I checked my box of coupons, and the car. Nothing.

I didn't call him back because our relationship is weird. I didn't want to accuse him of not giving me the money so he can turn it around on me. (That's how it is)

He did, however call me back to see if I found it. When I told him no, he got sort of exasperated and said the he would give me "Another" $25. I told him that I must have lost it and it was my fault so he doesn't owe my anything. (Meanwhile, feeling like I must be losing my mind) Then he said the most interesting thing;

Dad: "I gave it to you when you first got here, you took it with your right hand and put it in your right hand pants pocket."

Wait....What?

I called my mom right away and told him what he said. (They're divorced) Here's what she said.

Mom: "Then he obviously didn't give you the money!"

Me: "That's what I thought, there is no way he gave it to me!"

Can you guess why?

That's right! I am completely left handed. I do absolutely EVERYTHING with my left hand. In fact, if my right arm was cut off from my body, life would go on as if nothing ever happened.

Seriously, there is no way I would have taken anything with my right hand, let alone put it in my right hand pants pocket. It doesn't even exist to me.

So, now my mom wants me to call him and tell him that their is no way he gave me the money because I wouldn't have taken it like he remembered. She also wants me to ask him if he knows me at all? I don't think I'll be doing that. I think I will just let it go and next week, I will right the check over by $25 and not worry about it.

I missed my calling, I should have been a detective. Eat your heart out Nancy Drew!!!!

Johnny Depp Monday!

2009-11-16T07:14:00.001-06:00

She Wants To Rock and Roll All Night and Part of Every Day!

2009-11-12T11:55:00.006-06:00

Or is it Party Every day? I can never get it right!

A few new developments have come to light about little Miss Vivi. She is now 5 years old, she is 31 pounds (such a little peanut), she loves preschool, and she is obsessed with KISS.

No Little Einsteins or Dora the Explorer for my little girl, she is all about Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Ace Frehley and Peter Criss. Especially Peter Criss!

It started with my "Mom-of-The-Year Super Duper Parenting". I inadvertently let the girls watch the last 30 minutes of Role Models. If you have seen the movie, you know that there is a HUGE Kiss reference. That was all it took.

Then, I didn't realize that KISS is actually everywhere you look. They were watching The Fairly OddParents and the band made an animated guest star appearance.

We were walking around Walmart and she spotted a KISS t-shirt that she so desperately wants, she bugs me about it daily. The only problem I have is that it's a woman's shirt and even the smallest size would have to be used as a nightshirt. I told her that it was too big for her to wear outside the house and she was okay with that, so it looks like I am taking a trip to Walmart.

She told us that her and Stacy (her imaginary friend) went to the KISS concert. Of course, Stacy likes KISS too.

Emerson showed her the magic of Youtube and pulled up concert footage. Vivi sat their for an hour watching it. She was just fascinated.

Last year, her and I had a little fight because she wanted to wear her Alice in Wonderland dress to Thanksgiving. Well, guess what she wants to be this year. That's right, Peter Criss. I think I may put the makeup on her one day and see how she likes it.

Until something else catches little Vivi's eye, we are all Detroit Rock City around here.

Johnny Depp Monday!

2009-11-09T00:00:00.001-06:00

Now, if we could just get rid of the pesky windshield, camera lens, computer screen that keep us apart...

Johnny Depp Monday!

2009-11-02T00:00:00.000-06:00

The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus - Limited US release December 25, 2009

I Need To Set The Record Straight.

2009-10-30T09:42:00.009-05:00

I did not make Vivi's costume. It was bought for her at a resale shop by Kendra aka The Thrift Store Diva. I believe she paid $1 for it. Vivi originally wanted to be Cinderella, but fell in love with the little pink dress, she changed her mind.

So, for those of you with scorecards, let's go down the list.

Vivi's 5 Little Monkeys Birthday Cake - Made by us.

Emerson's Rockford Peach Costume - Made by us.

Vivi's China Doll Costume - Store bought.

I'm sorry for the extra paperwork.

In other news, we received a note from Emerson's school regarding Halloween Costumes.

"At _______School we celebrate Halloween in a fun, non-violent way. Please plan your child's Halloween costume with the following in mind:

Costumes must:

-NOT BE WORN TO SCHOOL

-BE OF A NON-VIOLENT NATURE

- Not contain any weapons (real or imitation). This includes but is not limited to swords, guns, knives, clubs, lasers, etc.

- Not contain any fake blood or other gruesome masks.

- Not represent a violent character such as Freddie Krueger, "Jason", an axe-murderer, terrorist, etc.

And my very favorite.

-Cover the child appropriately, that is: no exposed torso, chest area, buttocks, etc.

Man, now I have to put away Emerson's pair of assless chaps until Thanksgiving! That school takes the piss out of everything!!

Vivi's Halloween Costume

2009-10-28T10:42:00.005-05:00

I will post pictures of Emerson's costume when I have it finished. She doesn't need it until Friday and I still have some finishing touches to do.

Happy Birthday Vivienne!

2009-10-27T07:33:00.005-05:00

5 Years ago today, they put that tiny little girl in my arms for the first time. My life was changed forever and I can't imagine it without her.

Happy Birthday Vivi! No matter how big you get, you will always be my baby.

Johnny Depp Monday!

2009-10-26T07:41:00.002-05:00

We've been sick, but we're better now. I'll explain tomorrow.

Wednesday Haiku To You!

2009-10-14T00:00:00.000-05:00

What could be better
Than fresh, hot oatmeal cookies
and a glass of milk?

Conversations With Matt Plus a Suprise

2009-10-12T21:22:00.003-05:00

Here are a few conversations that Matt and I have had over the past few weeks.

Matt: "Antonio Alfonseca had 6 fingers."

Me: "What happened to his other 4?"

Matt: "He had 12 total."

Me: "Are you trying to confuse me?"

(I know this isn't an original exchange, but when the opportunity to quote Steel Magnolias presents itself, you have to jump on it!)

______________________________________________________

While Matt and I were watching T.V.

Matt: "Well, I counted and they have used that word three times now on network T.V."

Me: "What word?"

Matt: "Douche." "It's like the FCC decided that it was acceptable and now everyone is using it."

Me: "Um...you do know that it's an actual product that they have been advertising for years."

Matt: "Oh yeah, I forgot that it wasn't just an insult."

_________________________________________________________________

One night after Matt came home from work

Me: "How was your day?"

Matt: "I dealt with the craziest woman today." "She just kept talking to herself and then she came down to the basement to talk to me" "She told me all about her affair with the King of Spain."

Me: "Really?"

Matt: "Yes, and then she told me all about how she worked for a man who was very nice and had a lot of children." "The kids were so talented and they put shows on for their father all the time" "Unfortunately, after one of their performances, they had to sneak out and flee to Switzerland to escape the Nazis." "She was telling me the plot to the Sound of Music like it happened to her!" "It was so sad!"

Me: "Then she probably had an affair with Francisco Franco, he ran Spain but wasn't actually a king, more of a dictator."

Matt: "Somehow, you missed the point of my story."

________________________________________________________________

And now for the surprise. I decided I needed a change, can you see anything different in this picture?

It's looks a lot brighter because of my yellow kitchen walls, it's much better in natural light.

Johnny Depp Monday!

2009-10-12T00:00:00.000-05:00

Hi

2009-10-09T21:40:00.002-05:00

I can't really explain why I haven't been around at all these last few weeks. All I can say, is that I haven't been feeling it.

I can't think of anything to blog about. I used to be interesting, but now I hardly ever get out of my pajamas. I think I may need to see a therapist.

I've had some major issues these past weeks that have taken their toll. I'm tired...very, very tired.

I'm hoping to be back up and running soon.

Sorry.

Johnny Depp Monday!

2009-09-28T07:51:00.002-05:00

Wednesday Haiku To You!

2009-09-23T00:00:00.000-05:00

Is real life farming

just like it is on Facebook?

If so, I am good!

Johnny Depp Monday!

2009-09-21T05:18:00.002-05:00

So, my mother calls me from Paris and tells me that she was in Johnny's neighborhood and she's going back the next day. Is it stalking if I make her do my dirty work?

Six Word Saturday

2009-09-19T11:35:00.002-05:00

Official Talk Like A Pirate Day!

If you would like to join Six Word Saturday, go see Cate.

Wednesday Haiku To You!

2009-09-16T15:01:00.002-05:00

I'm sorry, I totally forgot that today was Wednesday. Here is your haiku.

I've got no picture

But I do have some great news

Guess who got fired?

Random Pictures and A Halloween Costume Conundrum

2009-09-15T00:00:00.000-05:00

We took the girls to the Route 66 Preservation Society Annual Picnic on Sunday. The drawback was that our kids were the only kids there. Not much fun for them. There was a playground and some swing bridges that we went to explore, so it wasn't a total loss. I also took the opportunity to take some "outside" pictures of the girls.

On our way home, we started talking about Halloween. Vivi is having a hard time deciding between Max from Where The Wild Things Are and Cinderella. Emerson, however, has her mind made up. She wants to be a Rockford Peach from the AAGPBL. (All American Girl Professional Baseball League) You might remember them from the movie A League of Their Own.

I have search the web for a costume, but the only one I can find is for an adult and it's $225. A little more than I wanted to spend.

I went to my mom's work today and I think I laid the ground work with one of our friends. She's an incredible seamstress and I asked her if she would teach me to sew. When my mom gets back from Paris, I will have her ask her again. I'm pretty good at Velcro and fusible web, but I don't think I can do a whole costume without it falling apart.

Johnny Depp Monday!

2009-09-14T00:00:00.000-05:00

Prizes, Pizza and Pound Cake

2009-09-10T16:46:00.006-05:00

I have 3 things to talk about, so get comfortable.

In light of our fast food protest, I have become a virtual Martha Stewart. In fact, I don't even recognize myself anymore!!!

I wake up in the morning thinking about what I am going to make that day. I make meal plans, I defrost, I plan leftovers, I look for new exciting recipes on the Internet, I even make a dessert daily.

Which brings me to the world's best pound cake. My mother and I were going through a binder that her Aunt Laverne had given her. Laverne had made a copy of all the recipes that her granddaughter had gotten at her wedding shower. Some of them were quite strange, but one caught our eye, The World's Best Pound Cake. As I read through the ingredients, my mother checked her cabinets. We had everything, so we decided to give it a try. Let me tell you, it was truly the best pound cake I've ever tried! And so very easy to make. Here's the recipe.

1 c. butter softened

2 c. sugar

2 eggs

2 c. flour

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1 1/4 tsp. baking powder

1/4 tsp. salt

1 c. sour cream

Preheat oven to 375. Cream butter and sugar, add eggs and vanilla. In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder and salt. Gradually, mix dry ingredients with the wet ingredients. Add sour cream. Pour batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for 1 hour. Let cool and enjoy!

I have been making this all week! Emerson likes it for breakfast with hot chocolate, in her lunch and for dessert. ( I do have to say that it goes really well with coffee in the morning.)

Now, pizza.

Last year, we went to the Jimmy Buffett concert in Wisconsin. After the concert, we ended up at a small bar to sing a little karaoke. I was drunk, and extremely hungry, so my friend Jerry ordered a pizza from the bartender. (there was no kitchen at this bar) I watched how she grabbed a frozen pizza and put it in a small pizza oven located on the top of the bar in between pouring drinks. She brought the pizza over and I have to say that it was the best pizza I'd ever had. Matt didn't get to have any because it had sausage on it (he's allergic to pork) and they didn't have plain cheese.

The next morning, I mentioned it to my friend David and his father and they said it must have been "________". I sort of heard the name, but not really, I figured that I would recognize it when I saw it at the grocery store.

For the past year, I have tried every frozen pizza they offer in Chicago. None of them were the pizza I had that night. Matt was convinced that because I had spent the whole day drinking and didn't eat anything, that of course it was going to be the best I'd ever had. It's sort of his "Give a starving man a Saltine and he'll think it's a Ritz" theory.

I never called David to ask him what the name of the pizza was, I don't know why, it seemed trivial and every time I saw him, it slipped my mind.

Fast forward one year. Matt and I took the girls up to David's house and then his family and our family went to the Walworth County fair. We had a wonderful time and as soon as I get some new batteries for the camera, I'll post some pictures.

We started to leave the fair, and it dawned on me to ask for the name of the pizza.

EMIL'S!!!!!! And it's sold at the Sentry!!!! ( a grocery store in Wisconsin)

Everyone packed up their cars and David led us to the nearest Sentry. There they were! I felt like Indiana Jones when he found the Ark, except when I opened the freezer door, it didn't melt my face.

We bought 4 and I made 2 of them on Monday night. Definitely how I remembered them! Even Matt said they were in fact a Ritz and not a Saltine!

Now, David and I have a deal. Whenever Emil's is on sale, he will grab a bunch for me and I in turn will do the same for him when the Jewel brand pizzas go on sale in Chicago.

Now, Prizes.

I have received 2 prestigious awards this week and I won a giveaway.

The first one is from Sparkle Farkle. Thank you very much.

This one has rules.

1. Each Superior Scribbler I name today must in turn pass The Award on to 5 most-deserving bloggy friends.

2. Each Superior Scribbler must link to the author & the name of the blog from whom he/she has received The Award.

3. Each Superior Scribbler must display The Award on his/her blog, and link to THIS POST, which explains The Award.

4. Each blogger who wins The Superior Scribbler Award must visit this post http://randomthoughts-tammy.blogspot.com/2009/08/good-better-best-never-let-it-rest-till.htmland add his/her name to the Mr. Linky List. That way, we'll be able to keep up-to-date on everyone who receives this prestigious honor.

5. Each Superior Scribbler must post these rules on his/her blog.

Here are the lucky recipients.

1. In The Trenches

2. Our Life's Journey

3. In My Mind It's Always Funny

4. Well Okay, Sassy Britches

5. My Side of The Story

The second one is from a brand new friend Brownies for Breakfast (She love pin ups too)

I had a hard time picking for this one, so it goes to all my followers. (Not a follower? It's not too late to join to cool kids)

I also won the book giveaway from Jenny and the Princess Peonies, but that deserves a post all it's own.

Go over and visit these three very special ladies, you won't be disappointed.

Finally, I would like answer ChicagoLady's questions that were left on Matt's blog.

Yes, it is more of a "no fast food chain" protest that we are doing.

First, It is not that the food tastes better at a local hot dog stand than it does at Portillo's. It's something that we feel is important. Matt and I are huge Route 66 enthusiasts and support local businesses in whatever town we are in. What is the point of going down the Mother Road, looking at all the places that were shut down because of the highway, and then going to McDonald's?

Second, We feel that the food just isn't good. A french fry from McDonald's that is dropped behind a child's car seat looks exactly the same one month after it was bought. How is that OK?

Third, During this economic crisis, we just aren't eating out as much and I would rather spend my money on something I would really enjoy and not because it's convenient.

I hope this answered your questions and you can support our decision.

Wednesday Haiku To You!

2009-09-09T00:00:00.000-05:00

A film I just watched

is The Secret Life of Bees.

Wonderful movie.

Johnny Depp Monday!

2009-09-07T00:00:00.000-05:00

"This is a little song I wrote for a girl who rocked my world. Becky, this is for you!"

Please Join Me...

2009-09-06T00:08:00.002-05:00

in wishing MattyFlower a Happy Birthday!!!!

Happy Birthday Matt! I Love you!

Six Word Saturday

2009-09-05T10:47:00.004-05:00

Styx are playing the County Fair!

If you would like to join Six Word Saturday, go see Cate.

Wednesday Haiku For You!

2009-09-02T00:00:00.001-05:00

Vivi starts next week

Her first day of real preschool

I'll miss my baby!

The Challenge I Chose To Accept (To My Family's Horror)

2009-09-01T00:00:00.000-05:00

Recently, I read an article in Good Housekeeping about a family who went without making any non-depletable or non-food purchases. The whole article was about how they found things around the house instead of instantly going to purchase something new. Instead of spending all their time in malls looking for something else to buy, they had quality family time.

As much as I think this is an admirable idea, it is more of a "good on paper" concept for our family. I do think that in this current economic crisis, it is wonderful to cut your spending. But it is something completely different to cut out everything, including holidays. For one, they had older kids who understood what they were trying to do and had the attention span to see it through. They also had a basement full of things that they bought in the past that could be used in a pinch. It seemed to me, that they were spending money just to spend it. They were also BIG electronic freaks and needed all the latest gadgets.

One of the main reasons this wouldn't work for us is that emergencies come up all the time. As much as I try to cut spending, my children are still growing quickly out of their clothes. They also can't get away with no school supplies. Not to mention, Christmas. How do you explain to a 4 year old that Santa has decided not to make any purchases this year. Even though our Christmas might be scaled back a bit, I'm not about to disappoint so I can save enough money to go to Hawaii.

I have thought about this article for about a week now, trying to come up with ways that this may work for us...it won't. There are way too many factors. Cutting spending is something I can do, but I cannot make a commitment to make my kids wear shoes that are too small so we don't spend money.

I did, however, come up with a challenge of my own. I vow to not spend one penny out of our budget on fast food for at least one year.

Never again, will I be a slave to the drive thru!

When I thought about it, I don't even like the food, I feel guilty when I feed it to the girls, it's expensive, and so not good for any of us.

With a little meal planning, we don't ever have to eat that slop again.

The Fam was all for the plan...until it was time to execute it.

Friday, Matt's mom picked up the girls for the weekend and here is the conversation between Matt and I.

Me: "I'm starting to get hungry, what should we have for dinner?"

Matt: "I can go pick something up."

Me: "Great! If you're going to the store, here's a list of some things we need."

Matt: "What? No, I'm not going to the store."

Me: "Then what were you picking up for dinner?"

Matt: "I don't know, something fast."

Me: "Surely, you are not talking about fast food on the first day of our challenge!???"

Matt: "Of course not! I was thinking more along the lines of Subway or KFC something like that."

Me: "What do you think those are?"

Matt: "Well, what is your definition of "fast food"?"

Me: "Any chain restaurant that you can get food in 10 minutes or less and you don't have to get out of the car to get it."

Matt: "Really???!!!! We might have to rethink this whole thing!"

Me: "You need a 12-step program, my friend."

On Sunday, Matt's mom called to tell me that she was leaving the house to drop the girls off. This is how that went.

Matt's Mom: "I will be leaving in about 10 minutes. The girls are just finishing up their lunch."

Me: "OK."

Matt's Mom: "When I asked what they wanted, Emerson said McDonald's but she wanted to eat it here, not at home."

Me: "Of course she did."

It seems that I am going to have to reprogram this family. Wish us luck!!!

Johnny Depp Monday!

2009-08-31T00:00:00.000-05:00

Can't you just see the thought bubble? "Becky is waiting for me in the trailer, can we get this over with?"

Six Word Saturday!

2009-08-29T12:08:00.004-05:00

Today deserves a fun pin up.

If you would like to join SWS, go see Cate at Show My Face.

A MeMe for Me-Me or You-You, Whichever You Prefer.

2009-08-27T22:43:00.004-05:00

I got this from Kimber over at I Know, Right?! and I thought it was interesting. I have been running a little dry on the posts lately and I decided to give it a try.

1. Why are you here right now, at my site? Don't be cute, tell the truth.

Well, I came over initially to wish you a happy birthday but then I wasn't able to leave a comment, so I emailed you instead.

2. What is something you left undone today? Why did you leave it and what is the consequence?

Absolutely everything including getting dressed! I did, however, get a shower in, but then I just sat around and let myself air dry. No consequences as of yet.

3. If you saw a child about to lick a cut lemon, what would you do? Again, don't be cute.

My mouth would salivate to the point of drool, I would make a pucker face and turn away. Matt would put salt on it and then laugh at the faces the child makes, he's cruel like that.

4. Willie Nelson-Backwoods Redneck or God Among Men?

I don't think he is someone who is able to be pigeon-holed.

5. If I asked your Momma "what is the greatest thing you taught your child"? What would she say?

Pretty is as Pretty does. Always be compassionate and caring.

6.Recently you saw something fabulous. What was it?

Well, Matt left the door open today when he peed, that was pretty impressive. Other than that, I haven't been shopping because I have no job to buy clothes for.

7. Have you ever 'almost died', how?

You'd be surprised on what doesn't actually kill you.

8. Halloween or 4th of July?

Hmmm...beer or candy....beer or candy...I'll go candy. There's a better variety.

9. Everyone has something memorized. What do you have memorized? Your PIN is not an acceptable answer.

I told you guys this before but I can recite the entire opening monologue to the TV show The Odd Couple. I know...it's a gift.

10. If you had to be homeless in a US city for a year, which city would you choose and why?

I'd be a surfer in Maui and I'm going to quote my favorite line from Forgetting Sarah Marshall.

"When life gives you lemons, say f*ck the lemons and bale!" (I think I'm going to get this on a T-shirt)

If you would like to do this, go right ahead. I'm not tagging anyone.

Wednesday Haiku To You

2009-08-26T07:50:00.003-05:00

We are two days in

And Emerson loves her class

This year is better.

I would also like to wish my good friend Kimber over at I Know, Right?! a very happy birthday!

Johnny Depp Monday!

2009-08-24T00:00:00.000-05:00

I don't know what it is about this picture, but everytime I see it, it takes me a few minutes to recover. I'm not going to get anything done today!

I Am Getting Bitchy in My Old Age!

2009-08-22T05:16:00.006-05:00

Every year some family members and I get together and have a garage sale at my old house. The house is now owned by my mother's best friend, Kendra. They have been best friends since they were 5, she is more family to me than most of my blood relatives.

Every year, I have to remind Kendra to use her "soothing words" when a customer get particularly annoying. When she starts in on "This isn't Water Tower Place!!" or "I would rather take scissors and cut it up than to sell it to you for that price" That's when I usually step in to smooth over the situation.

That was until yesterday.

We had our garage sale (it continues today) and Kendra had a doctor's appointment in the late morning. She left her husband, John, and me in charge. That was her first mistake.

First off, John sold a $40 display table that Kendra loved for $3. Even loaded it their car for them. It was a really nice folding patio table with a handle. I remember watching him fold it up and thinking, "That's really nice, I would have bought that for $3!!" Needless to say, he wasn't asked to be "in charge" anymore which is what I think was his plan. I believe he subscribes to the Bill Cosby way of thinking. Screw it up the first time and you will never be asked to do it again.

Then there was what can only be described as the "Champagne Flute Incident". Now, I'm not saying I am proud of what transpired, but it is what it is.

This real piece of work lady came to the sale. She picked up everything and asked what the price was (everything had a price tag on it) then she would tell us how much she would give us for it. Sometimes we said yes, sometimes we said no, but she always just put the item back. She came across a set of 6 champagne flutes that were marked $1 a piece. They were really pretty, clear flute with a purple colored glass stem. She told me she would give me $4 for the set. Fine, it was only a $2 difference. I started to help her take them up to the table and she said. "Wait, let me take them into the light to make sure they are perfect, I don't want any chips!" Fine, I took them into the light for her inspection. When she was satisfied with the quality of the merchandise, I brought them up to the table for her. This is were I just sort of snapped. Here's how the conversation went.

Her: "I want them wrapped individually. I want them wrapped individually, You are going to do that for me, right? You are going to wrap them individually for me, right? You have something to wrap them up separately for me, right?"

At this point, I was still Bill Bixby, but my eyes were turning green.

Me: "Well, maybe for $5 or $6 dollars I would have wrapped them for you, but for $4, I don't know."

She gives a flinty little laugh.

The shirt that I'm wearing starts to rip.

I go and get small brown paper bags, and give her the "You gonna get cut!!!" laugh that I patented a couple of years ago. I start to wrap the glasses.

Her: "Well, I don't want them to get damaged, I am paying $4 for them!"

That's it, I was full blown Lou Ferrigno, all green with no shirt and tattered pants.

Me: "For $4 you can chuck them at passing cars and still get your money's worth!!!! Have a nice day!"

With that, she took her glasses, got into her over sized, overpriced SUV and drove away.

Kendra was so proud.

I don't think I should do garage sales anymore, people annoy me too much! I am this close to becoming the old man who shakes his cane and yells profanities at the passersby.

Wednesday Haiku To You!

2009-08-19T08:30:00.002-05:00

School starts on Monday

My, where has the summer gone?

Last year in grade school

Johnny Depp Monday!

2009-08-17T00:00:00.000-05:00

Finally, Luck Was On My Side.

2009-08-15T09:39:00.002-05:00

I have had an eventful few days. As most of you know, I lost my lower dentures. I did go on vacation without them. While everyone sat on the deck at ate, I hid in the room. Luckily we grilled at the resort and didn't eat at restaurants. It was fine. We had a great time. I am working on the post to show you all the pictures.

When we got home, I had an appointment with another dentist for a consultation. I had found them on the web because they had that capability to provide dentures in a day. While on the phone with them, I happen to mention that I might be interested in having implants put in so that the dentures snap in instead of using adhesive.

I went on Thursday, they took a CT Scan, and then talked to me about the implants. To the tune of $20,000!!!! They did say that $6000 was knocked off the price because they wouldn't have to do any extractions. That was the only thing they talked about. Not getting me some temporary lowers or anything. As interesting as the procedure sounds, I am not in any kind of position to spend $20,000. I was depressed.

I have a wedding to go to today and the last thing I wanted to do was go without my lower dentures. It's one thing to be with your family, no makeup, sort of camping, but it's a completely different thing to be dressed up at a function. Desperate times call for desperate measures.

I went back online. There has got to be an inexpensive, quick alternative. There it was, like a beacon! A company that specializes in cheap, fast dentures. They are located all around the country and have a price list on their website. A set of lower "economy" dentures are $255!!!!!

Here's the problem, to get same day service, you have to be at the office to register when they open at 7:45am. The closest office to me was about an hour away close to the Illinois/Wisconsin border and they don't take appointments. It's first come first serve.

So, yesterday, I packed cereal and lunch for the girls, and headed out at 6:30am. We arrived at 7:40. They took me right away, did some impressions, made the mold and then told me to come back at 11:45am. The nurse said that I picked the right day because they are usually lined up on the sidewalk to get in.

The girls and I walked around Target for a while, bought a pocket game of "Pass The Pig", sat in the trunk of the car eating our sandwiches and playing the game. 11:30 came and we decided to go in a little early. I walked in, they told me they were ready, I went in the room, they fit perfectly!!! We were home by 1:00pm and they only cost $255!!!!!

I am so happy that I don't have to eat soft food anymore!! I am sitting here right now eating 2 Eggo waffles, burnt with just butter (just how I like them) and coffee! Finally, something went my way!!!!!

Wednesday Haiku To You!

2009-08-12T00:00:00.000-05:00

Ducks followed Vivi,

Emerson got a tattoo,

I got chigger bites!

Johnny Depp Monday

2009-08-10T00:00:00.000-05:00

I am so sorry! I flaked and didn't schedule anything for today. My mother graciously let me use her laptop to post this, but I can't get a picture up. So here's a link to a nice picture of him. Again, I am sorry and I will accept my well deserved flogging.

Gone Fishin'

2009-08-07T06:51:00.002-05:00

I am on vacation in Wisconsin. I'll be back on Tuesday, so save up all your stories until then.

Have a great weekend!

Wednesday's Haiku For You

2009-08-05T01:24:00.003-05:00

Getting to stay home

I’m able to see old friends

I love Gilmore Girls!

Not My Finest Moment

2009-08-04T12:57:00.003-05:00

So, Deanna guessed it. I lost my teeth. Not all of my teeth, just the bottom dentures. I still have the tops, but when I wear just them, I feel like a can opener.

First a little back story, I made the decision to get dentures right after I had Vivi. My teeth had always been very soft and after having 2 kids, they just got worst. I would wake up in the morning and literally spit pieces of tooth out because I grind my teeth in my sleep.

I was also completely traumatized by a dentist when I was a child and I hadn't gone in a few years. It took all my inner strength to gather myself up and go to get this done. I sobbed sitting in the waiting room on my first consultation.

3 years later, I am relatively happy with the dentures. I have a smile again, but it does come with some draw backs. It took a really long time to get used to them. I can't really bite into anything because it loosens them. I have to be careful about spontaneous laughter, just in case they go shooting out of my mouth. Then there is the overnight trips with other people. It is almost impossible to sleep in them and I have to get up really early and put them in so that no one really sees me without teeth. (My sister saw me once and freaked out)

For over a week now, I have not left the house because I lost the bottoms. Saturday night, I was on the computer, and I took out my teeth because they were loose and bothering me. Because I was so busy with what I was doing, I laid them on the table next to me and I was going to put them in the bathroom the next time I went in there. Well, I forgot, which I frequently do, and when I got up the next morning only the tops were where I left them. I have NO IDEA what happened. We have torn the house apart looking. Matt has gone through the garbage, we have moved furniture and everything, they just disappeared.

I am at my wits end. I called the dentist and they want $1500 to replace them and it's going to take a few weeks to have them made. I am suppose to go on our annual vacation this weekend and then next weekend I have a family wedding.

I showed a family member who is going on vacation with us what I looked like with just the tops and she said that you can't even tell. I feel very self conscience and I can only eat really soft thing. Not to mention that it isn't very comfortable and effects my speech.

My only option is to go on vacation and then next week I have an appointment with another dentist who specializes in dentures. I believe they will be able to get me temporary bottoms and then we are discussing the option of titanium implants so I can stop using denture glue. The implants also completely eliminate the bone loss that regular dentures cause.

This has been a complete nightmare!!!! I just really wish I knew what happened to them. I can't even imagine where they went other than they got thrown away by accident and they're gone forever.

Maybe I'll take a picture with just the tops in and you guys can tell me what you think?

Johnny Depp Monday!

2009-08-03T00:00:00.000-05:00

I haven't been around lately because I lost something very important. Without it, my life is at a stand still. I can't go on vacation next week, I can't go to a wedding in 2 weeks, I can't even leave the house. If I have to get it replaced, it's gonna cost me $1500 and even then it's will probably take weeks.

So, while I tear my house apart looking for it and pray to St. Anthony at the same time, here's something for you to look at.

Wednesday Haiku To You!

2009-07-29T00:00:00.001-05:00

I am so confused!

IHOP's Upside Down Pancakes?

What is right side up?

Johnny Depp Monday!

2009-07-27T02:08:00.003-05:00

This is courtesy of my good friend LadyStyx, who email this one to me. Thank you so much!!

Johnny Depp at Comic-Con 2009 promoting Alice in Wonderland. (Release date 3/5/10, just in case you want to reserve your tickets )

Becky Through 5 Decades

2009-07-26T13:22:00.001-05:00

I woke up this morning to laughter. When I went into the living room, Matt was sitting at the computer laughing hysterically. He was looking at pictures of himself at yearbookyourself.com

After laughing at his post on his blog, I decided to see what I would look like. So, here are some yearbook pictures starring yours truly.

1960

I’m really liking the glasses!

1962

1964

That is a can and a half of Aqua Net!

1968

“When the moon is in the seventh house…”

1978

It’s the Farrah “do!!!

1984

Eat your heart out, Madonna!!

1990

This actually the year I graduated and I was sure we were more fashionable than this!!!

1998

“[Now wait a minute, y'all
This dance ain't for everybody
Only the sexy people
So all you fly mothers, get on out there and dance
Dance, I said!]

Salt and Pepa's here, and we're in effect
Want you to push it, babe…”

2000

I was HOT in 2000!

I don’t know, I think a trip to the wig shop might be in order. I wonder if they have one like 1964?

Six Word Saturday

2009-07-25T07:56:00.002-05:00

I'm thinking phone sex operating career.

If you want to join in, go see Cate.

My Life According to Elton John

2009-07-22T22:19:00.003-05:00

I've seen this on a lot of blogs and I thought, "What the heck, I'll give it a try"

Here are the rules:

1) Answer the questions as well as you can, but using only song names from one artist.

2) Try not to repeat a song title

3) Pick your own artist, leave mine alone (to quote someone).

4) Tag a bunch of friends. Tag, you're it.

After thinking long and hard, I could only pick one artist...Sir Elton John. He's been my favorite since I was little.

1. Are you a male or female? -- All The Young Girls Love Alice

2. Describe yourself: -- The Bitch is Back

3. How do you feel? -- I'm Still Standing

4. Describe where you currently live: -- In Neon

5. If you could go anywhere, where would you go? -- Island Girl

6. Your favorite form of transportation: -- Rocket Man

7. Your best friend is: -- Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters

8. Your favorite color is: -- Blue Eyes

9. What's the weather like? -- Can You Feel The Love Tonight?

10. Favorite time of day: -- Don't Let The Sun Go Down on Me

11. If your life was a TV show, what would it be called? -- The Tide Will Turn For Rebecca

12. What is life to you? -- Candle in The Wind

13. Your relationships: -- The One

14. Your fear: -- Funeral For A Friend

15. What is the best advice you have to give? -- Grow Some Funk Of Your Own

16. If you could change your name, you would change it to: -- Levon

17. Thought for the day: -- Someone Saved My Life Tonight

18. How I would like to die: -- Havc Mercy on The Criminal

19. My soul's present condition: -- Blessed

20. My motto: -- Saturday Night's Alright For Fighting

Wednesday Haiku To You!

2009-07-22T00:00:00.000-05:00

You have some nerve, bird!

Those aren't your potato chips!

Oh well, help yourself.

Family Reunion Trip to St Paul, MN.

2009-07-21T09:29:00.001-05:00

We’re back from yet another family road trip, (if you’re keeping score, that makes 3 road trip weekends in a row!).

This time we headed north to St Paul, Minnesota.

The main reason for this trip was to attend a family reunion for Matt’s side of the family.

We were going to leave after Matt got off work on Friday, but with the weather being cooler than normal, Matt got the day off so we were able to leave earlier, which was nice for Matt because, #1: He wasn’t as tired as he would have been from working all day, and #2: We were able to spend more time with his Sister, brother-in-law and his niece.

We headed out around noon and got to St Paul around 7:00 pm. The temp outside was only 62 degrees F, but that didn’t stop Emerson from asking, “Can we go swimming?” the very moment we got there. Luckily, the pool was heated, so she got to swim from about 30 mins.

Emerson and Vivienne made very quick friends with their cousins, Frannie and Sophie, and the four were inseparable the entire weekend.

On Saturday, the family reunion was great. Matt got to see relatives he hasn’t seen in years and I have to say, I even enjoyed myself talking with my relative-in-laws, (that’s the correct term, right?).

On Sunday, we all took a quick trip to the Mall of America.

I thought I was going to spend a lot more money than I did, but instead, we spent most of the time in the indoor amusement park there with the kids.

The children’s television channel Nickelodeon has taken over the Mall of America’s theme park, so we got to meet all of the BIG stars, like SpongeBob, Patrick, Dora the Explorer and Kai-Lan.

Matt and Emerson even went on the absolutely most insane rollercoaster that made me sick even looking at it. The “Rock Bottom Plunge”.

Meanwhile, Vivienne and I stuck to the smaller rides like SpongeBob's Pineapple bounce house and the Wonder Pet's Sky Ship.

After a fun day at the Mall, we went back to my sister-in-law’s house, packed our bags, said our always sad goodbyes, and took the 6-1/2 hour drive back home.

We had a really great time, but I think we are going stick a little closer to home next weekend… But then again, we have a whole week to change our minds.

Johnny Depp Monday!

2009-07-20T01:14:00.003-05:00

I know I haven't been around lately, we had yet another "Family Roadtrip". We took the girls up to St. Paul, MN to Matt's family reunion. It was a very short trip and now I'm home, so I will be coming over to see what you guys have been up to. But, meanwhile...

Wednesday Haiku For You!

2009-07-15T00:03:00.002-05:00

My brand new camera

A Birthday present from Matt

Can't keep his hands off.

A Birthday Road Trip!

2009-07-13T21:34:00.001-05:00

So, with it being my birthday, I was feeling quite blue. I hate that day more than ANY other day of the year! But Matt was in no mood for the “Becky Blues” and was going to have no part of it.

He woke me up to breakfast in bed, which consisted of Egg in the Bread, Bacon, fresh doughnuts and coffee. Okay, so far so good.

Then Matt told Emerson to go get a bag out of the kitchen. This was the gift from just “The Girls”. Inside was a CUBS shirt, a CUBS umbrella, an Electronic Hand Held Word Search Game, two of my favorite chocolate and caramel candy bars and a $25 gift card to Old Navy. Alright… This is getting pretty good!

After opening my gifts and eating breakfast, Matt told everyone, “Get dressed, we’re going on a road trip!”.

We got into the car and Matt told us all that we’d all be going to Dyersville, Iowa to where they filmed the movie, “Field of Dreams”

Now, I have to tell you, I can’t remember the last time I’ve laughed as hard as I did on this trip! Everything was cracking us up!

It all started with a bag of Combo’s that Emerson got at a rest area we stopped at.

Emerson had been eating them and Matt asked her, “Hey Em, do you have any Combo’s left that I can have?” She looked in the half eaten bag, put on this “thinking about it” face, looked at Matt and said, “No!”

Without missing a beat, Matt said, “Thanks a lot ya little ass!”

Now, Matt doesn’t swear a lot, especially around the kids. So I can’t tell you which was funnier, Matt saying it or the complete look of shock on Emerson’s face! I don’t know why, but I couldn’t stop laughing and it just made everyone else laugh even harder.

Our first stop on this trip was in a town called Freeport, IL. We were going to see something called “Little Cubs Field”. It’s a little league park built as a miniature Wrigley Field.

Well, our next bought of laughter came when we saw that the Freeport High School’s mascot was “The Freeport Pretzels”.

We all looked at each other with a “What the #$%@???” look. Who are their rivals??? The Dubuque Doritos?

When we made it to “Little Cubs Field” it was really cute! The game of the day was the Mini Cubs vs. the Mini Cardinals.

Our next fit of laughter came when we were almost to Galena, IL. Everyone refers to IL as the great flatlands. Anything larger than a mole hill and we think we have to downshift our cars to get over it.

Well, The Northwest corner of IL, had us all saying, “Flatlands our butt!” I’m NOT a heights kind of person! All of the hills and corners had me hanging on for dear life! Even the girls would scream every once in a while from the backseat as we’d crest a hill and go down the other side.

This time it was Matt that was laughing so hard he was crying as I said, “EVERYONE SMILE!” “Why?” Matt asked. I said, “Because our picture is going to be taken as we go down this hill, just like they do at Disney World when you ride the roller coasters!… There’s a kiosk at the bottom where we can buy it!”

After our roller coater trip, we finally made it to the Mississippi river. This is where Matt had to quote a line from one of his favorite movies, “Vacation”. “Look kids”, he said, “The Mississippi river! The mighty Mississip… The old man… The ‘ol Miss… Oooold man riverrrrrrrrr!”

The more I think about it, the more I’ve come to realize the fact that I think I DID marry Clark Griswold! LOL!

After crossing the Mississippi it wasn’t long before we were in Dyersville, IA. We followed the signs all the way to the “Field of Dreams”

Here are a few pictures from there.

Of course, Matt has to recreate the ghosts coming out of the corn field with the kids.

After playing on the field and looking at the farm for a while, we bought some T-shirts, hats and a refrigerator magnet and it was on the road back home.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve always had Prime Rib as my special birthday dinner. Matt made sure this would not change. We crossed back over the Mississippi once again back into IL and we stopped in the town of Galena.

There we stopped at the “Log Cabin Restaurant” And I have to say, it was one of the BEST Prime Rib dinners I have EVER had!

After dinner, with our belly’s full, Matt downed an energy drink ,while the girls fell asleep on the ride home.

After we got back home, I sat back on the sofa and thought to myself. What a great birthday! I got to spend it with my family, had a LOT of laughs, had a great dinner and a lot of fun!

Johnny Depp Monday!

2009-07-12T22:01:00.002-05:00

I would like to thank you all for the birthday wishes. It didn't turn out that bad. Matt took the girls and I to Dyersville, IA to see where they shot the movie "Field of Dreams" We had a great day and pictures will be following soon.

But for right now, heeeeerrrrreeee's Johnny!!

It's My Party And I'll Cry If I Want to!

2009-07-11T21:10:00.003-05:00

Birthdays....BAH HUMBUG!!!!!

This One's For Iggy!

2009-07-09T08:21:00.006-05:00

My good friend Iggy over at Intense Guy has taught me how to find the humor and magic in the little things that we see every day. Because of him we noticed these little things while on our trip to Cleveland.

Look at this OCHA flirting with the girls!!!

This one's sleeping on the job.

Uh OH!!!! A rare picture of the mating process.

Wednesday Haiku To You.

2009-07-07T23:28:00.002-05:00

Sunday is the day

that I've been dreading all year.

Worst day in July!

Rock and Roll RoadTrip

2009-07-06T20:16:00.001-05:00

With Matt working all sorts of crazy hours because of the heat, (98 hours last week alone), he was so excited to find out he would have a VERY RARE 2 days off in a row because of the 4th of July.

The first words out of his mouth was, “Do we have any plans for the weekend?” I answered, “No.” “Good!”, he said, “Keep it that way!”

We did some brain storming and thought about all of the places we’d like to go, when all of a sudden it hit me… “How about the Rock ‘N Roll Hall of Fame?”

It was a plan! So at 7:00 am Saturday morning we loaded up the car and we were off the Cleveland, OH.

The trip there was rather uneventful, thankfully in part to the portable DVD player. (God bless the inventor of this wonderful device!)

About 1/2 way though the trip we did see some Amish people enjoying some Ice Cream from a Hardees rest stop. I felt like I was in the movie “Witness”. I took several pictures of them, but then Matt told me that it was against Amish rules to take pictures of the faces of the adults. So, to respect their religion and rules, here’s the one I can use.

Matt made record time getting to Cleveland. 5-1/2 hours. The first thing we did was check into the hotel and then we went to get something to eat. We always like to ask ‘the locals” where to go and we were told to go to 4th St. No cars allowed and nothing but restaurants!

We had a great meal and then it was just a short walk to the Rock ‘N Roll Hall of Fame.

Unfortunately, there are NO pictures allowed INSIDE the Hall of Fame, but I can tell you it was truly an AWESOME place!

We saw everything from Elvis’s suits and one of his cars, the clothes of the Beatles from the Ed Sullivan Show and Sgt. Pepper’s, Jimmy Hendrix guitar and clothes, Michael Jackson’s glove and his “Thriller” costume and mask, Guitars from just about anyone you can think of and countless other treasures. It was really amazing!

After the Hall of Fame, we got to go through Johnny Cash’s Tour Bus. Here we could take all the pictures we wanted to.

After all of this, we went back to our hotel room to crash. Matt order pizza and had it delivered to the room. Oh yeah… And Kevin made it along for the trip as well.

The next day we got up and took a short walk around the city to see some of the sights. We went to Progressive Park, home of the Cleveland Indian’s baseball team.

We had missed the free breakfast at the hotel, so Emerson and Vivienne decided they wanted hotdogs from a street vendor in front of the ball park. Breakfast of Champions! (And the award for Parent’s of the Year go to….)

Next it was over to the football stadium, home of the Cleveland Browns.

Here’s the statue Drew Cary dances around in the opening of the “Drew Cary Show”.

And here are the kids in the front of one of the MANY painted guitars located around the city.

After a quick walk around the city, we checked out of the hotel and we were off to a place I think Matt was the MOST excited about going to… The house used in the movie “A Christmas Story”.

From the moment we pulled up, Matt started clapping his hands yelling, “There it is! There it is!” He’s such a little kid sometimes! LOL!

And here are some pictures from there.

The house.

The Leg Lamp in the front window. “It’s a Major Award!”

Emerson and Vivienne in front of Ralph and Randy’s beds.

The bathroom. Complete with Decoder Ring and Lifebuoy Soap, (with teeth marks in the soap).

The phone the mother uses after Ralph rats out Schwartz.

“Blee Ricka Flaaaab! Who moved the damper?!!!”

The sink Randy hid under. “Daddy’s gonna kill Ralphie!”

“Some men are Catholics, other’s Protestant. My father was an Oldsmobile man!”

Here’s Randy’s snowsuit. “My brother looked like a tick ready to pop!”

Matt even got to meet one of the extra’s from the movie. His name is Jim and he’s one of the guys that deliver the crate with the leg lamp in it into the house. He was really nice and had a bunch of really fun stories.

And here’s the family in front of the “one and only” actual Leg Lamp from the movie in the living room.

After the tour of the house, (and several purchases from the gift shop), it was off to lunch. Where you ask??? Well where else? “The Pearl of the Orient" where we took part in some “Chinese Turkey” just like in the movie. (“The Pearl” has had quite the facelift).

After that it was on the road back home. We only made a quick stop in South Bend, IN to see the famous, University of Notre Dame.

Then it was back home Another family adventure! We had a great time and we can’t wait until the next one!

Johnny Depp Monday!

2009-07-06T00:00:00.001-05:00

After a whirlwind week with Erin and a short roadtrip, I'm back and I'll be commenting on all of your blogs today.

Six Word Saturday!!!

2009-07-04T00:00:00.003-05:00

Look out Cleveland, here we come!!!!

If you would like to join 6 Word Saturday, go see Cate.

Here We Go…

2009-07-03T14:03:00.001-05:00

I have already posted that we went to the Pride Parade on Sunday, so lets start with Monday.

I met Erin and Gage at my mom’s work and we went to the park across the street.

Everyone was hungry, so we stopped off for breakfast at a favorite diner. That’s where Erin introduced Emerson to her new favorite breakfast, a toasted bagel with cream cheese and bacon sandwich.

After breakfast, we went over to my dad’s house where the kids played in the back of the El Camino, golfed and used sidewalk chalk. They were so well behaved playing together.

For dinner, we went to a local beer garden to meet up with friends. We had a wonderful time catching up.

On Tuesday, it was cold. It was 63 degrees out, and for July, that was cold!

I took the girls downtown to my mom’s and we all hopped a bus and went to the Taste of Chicago where Emerson ate frozen popcorn on a stick.

Gage fell asleep on the bus and slept through the whole thing. My poor sister had to carry him all over the place.

He finally woke up after we walked all the way to Macy’s. My sister had a gift card burning a hole in her pocket. We went to the children’s department and they had all of these FAO Schwartz stuffed animals for 50% off. When we were looking at them, the sales lady told us that they were actually 75% off and the sign just wasn’t up yet. That’s when Vivi found Kevin. He’s the bird from the movie UP. He was $25 and with all the discounts, he only cost us $6.50. She hasn’t let him out of her sight since. I have a feeling that Kevin is going to accompany us on quite a few adventures.

Tuesday night brought us to Rivinia to see what my mother calls “The Fake ABBAs”. Their actual name is “Arrival from Sweden” and they are an ABBA tribute band. The Rivinia is an outdoor theater that is AWESOME!!! They have pavilion seats, but to me, the lawn seats are better. Everyone brings picnics, wine and candles to sit out under the stars and listen to some wonderful music.

My kids have been ABBA fans since they’ve been born, so they danced their little booties off. True to form, Gage slept through most of it. It was sort of like “Flat Stanley”, we just took pictures of Gage asleep at different places.

Wednesday brought more cold, rainy weather and one other thing…pain!!! My sister was so sore from carrying Gage all over the city, she had to opt out of the adventure for the day, KiddieLand.

As sad as we were that Erin couldn’t go, we were happy that Matt got some time off and could go.

KiddieLand is a small amusement park that sort of caters to smaller children. The little kids could ride most of the rides, unlike some other parks. We spent a few hours there and then it started raining a little harder so we called it a day. We headed back to mom’s and had dinner.

Thursday was very low key. Erin was still a little sore, so we didn’t do much. I went and picked them up and took her to my dad’s so she could say goodbye. After that, we went back down to mom’s for dinner.

It was a pretty laid back visit this time. No drunken nights at the bar or anything, we were well behaved and were able to do a lot of connecting.

Matt drove them to the airport this morning. (Gage was asleep) I didn’t think I could handle an airport trip emotionally.

Now, it’s back to real life. Today, I have to clean the house, pack and run to the store so we can leave bright and early tomorrow morning.

Matt has two days off in a row and has decided to take the fam to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame!!!! I am so excited!!!

I Know I've Been Bad.

2009-07-02T10:39:00.002-05:00

Today is my last full day with Erin and Gage and I promise tomorrow I will post pictures of the visit. We went to Taste of Chicago, Rivinia to see an ABBA tribute band, KiddieLand and then whatever we do today. There has been no arrests to speak of, but who knows what will happen today. I'm taking them to the airport in the morning and then I have only tomorrow to clean and pack for the weekend roadtrip that Matt decided we need to take at the last minute. He got 2 days off in a row and he wants to take advantage of it. It should be an exciting adventure and I'll tell you all about it tomorrow. Right now, I have to go pick up Erin and Gage.

If I haven't comment on your post, I will catch up as soon as I can.

Wednesday Haiku To You!

2009-07-01T00:00:00.002-05:00

Some time in the park

Had us wondering something,

Why don't we swing more?

Pride Parade

2009-06-30T00:00:00.001-05:00

For the first full day of Erin's visit we went to the Gay Pride Parade which is 3 blocks from mom's house.

Erin has never been and she was curious. She was also scared that Gage would see something and ask a lot of questions for the rest of the week.

What she didn't know was that the Pride Parade is the second most attended parade in Chicago, only to be beaten by the Bud Bilican Back to School Parade.

But what I think really impressed her and has her as a parade-goer for years to come is that the parade starts at 11am and that's when you stand on the street and start drinking. (Unless of course you are lucky enough to be invited to one of those awesome pre-parade parties and then you start much earlier)

We have been going to the parade for the last 4 years and it never fails to impress. This year was no exception. We always take our kids and they LOVE it. They saw our new Governor, the Chicago Police Superintendent, The State Treasurer, and quite a few local news personalities whom they recognized.

At one point, the Cook County Sheriff, Tom Dart, was shaking every one's hand. I love him and you can read about why here. When he got to Erin and me he looked down in our cups and said "Man, you guys got beer!!"

Erin did not have to worry about Gage seeing anything he might question, he didn't see anything. The boy slept through the whole parade!!!! But my girls walked away from it with beads, a Chicago Public Library bag, fans, temporary tattoos, a sheriff's badge, and magnets.

One funny thing was that when we were walking down to the parade, Gage asked if Batman was going to be there. We laughed and said "Maybe" Well, wouldn't you know who showed up while Gage was sleeping.