Monotonous Motherhood

this will be a long-winded one

2008-09-25T14:32:00.012-05:00

Here I am again, months later. Bad, Ginny! So much has happened! That'll show me not to wait so dang long!

The girls started gymnastics. Here they are looking so adorable:

Right?

Both girls absolutely love it and get to do it with some of their buddies, Alys and Charlie. So that's been fun!

School is going exceptionally well for everyone (including mom :)). Grace has really picked up on the reading, which was going a little slow this summer. Sydney seems to like school as well. She is still quite the little mommy's girl, and would much rather be with me, but is also meeting some fun new friends and gaining some much needed "socialization". Damn wild animal!

Wade and I got to go to Chicago for a tiny vacation and we had so much fun. I kept thinking to myself, "why did we leave?" There is so much to do! and see! and eat!

And then I remembered:

Wow, traffic is UGLY there. But we had so much fun reminiscing, seeing our good friend Maja, driving by our old apartment and a few of my old job sites. It was a fabulous birthday gift for Wade, who turned 30 (really 38--seriously how is life happening so fast? He was 23 when I met him!) September 10.

The girls also had fun at Annaliese's birthday party~~~ she had real, alive ponies! Which the kiddos loved.

Let's continue this epic post with a little soccer update! When I was having quite a heated debate with my friend Ashli and my brother regarding Grace and her "non-interest" in sports, team or otherwise, she decided to sit on the foam cooler and proceed to break it into a million pieces! Good job, Grace. You make your momma proud. Plus, you made me look right, which everyone knows how much I love to be right!

And last, but most definitely not least, Grace had a little, um, accident.

Yeah, she broke her wrist falling off the monkey bars at school.

So, allll that stuff I just reported on! Yeah, it really doesn't apply anymore.

She can still do choir though?!?!??!?! *gulp*

2008-08-21T20:37:00.004-05:00

Thank the heavens for school. Do not get me wrong, it has been an amazing summer, but I'm feeling this whole school thing. Here is the first day pic:

And yes, they are BOTH going to Westminster (feel free to send cash) this year. It is slowly and methodically killing me that Sydney is old enough to do this. But, whatever, everyone says that! And technically, this picture was Grace's 2nd day of school, but WHO CARES, right? It's all about the pic.

In other news, our beloved Lily B was almost a "goner"(the words of our vet). She suffered a back injury and actually couldn't walk for 2 days. It was a miserable time. But, alas, church has paid off, and she is going to be okay. She is on doggie bed rest, which is as impossible as it sounds.

And finally, today is our 9th anniversary, Whew! If you are interested in taking a peek down our memory lane, feel free to do so here. Good times I tell ya.

Peace and Love y'all~

californication

2008-08-16T21:21:00.016-05:00

The trip was fantastic, the weather was beautiful (even a little chilly) and it was SO GOOD to see my friend Meredith and her kiddos. We had a phenomenal time. Wade and I only had a handful of fights, KIDDING!! It was very relaxing and low stress. Here are some of the highlights.

Sydney: still a little bratty, but overall pretty good. She actually enjoyed the beach this time, LOVED swimming in the heated pool, thought the animals were rad at the zoo and really liked the penguins and Shamu at Seaworld. Although she wanted us to buy her something at EVERY gift shop there, which there a like a bazilion gifts shops, so she heard a lot of "no" that day. Which is good for her.

that is a panda in between them, so cute!!!!!
She didn't get a single nap the entire trip, except this one and it didn't really count, y'know?

Grace: ever the rockstar she declared (same as last year) that she wants to move to San Diego. The child loves all things California.

Boogie Boarding (which I did with her, thank God there are no pictures to prove that!!)

Feeding the Sea Lions

And it just so happens that she got to spend time with a boy that wants to marry her. The cutest boy ever, might I add.

Can't wait til next year....

sassy new do and such

2008-08-09T14:21:00.003-05:00

Well, here I am again for my monthly check-in. Grace has been dyyyyying for bangs, so she got her hair did! And here is the result!!

She looks older, but I think it's pretty cute!! And she lurrrrves it!

Sydney has really started growing up this summer, of course we are still dealing with a lot of yelling and whining, but in general she has matured quite a bit. She started her warm-up preschool at Westminster and absolutely loved it! She never cried and actually skipped her little self right in there. Oh the sadness...

She also finally got to participate in Grace's beloved theatre camp last week. She really liked it as well. All week she was telling me that she was going to sing and dance for us. It was sooooo cute and I nearly died. She really got into it and was actually the loudest camper. She and her friend Alys were the youngest ones and they did awesome. More sadness...

Here she is, in all her glory. It's a little long, but you get the general idea. Grace would have NEVER been this vocal. So cute.

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books
And finally, we are off for our annual San Diego trip tomorrow. WOOHOO!!!!

Wish me luck!!!

numero 3

2008-07-30T16:49:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday to the orneriest, bossiest and most delightful girl I know.

Here's hoping the third year is filled with less whining!

4th 'o July

2008-07-04T13:29:00.008-05:00

This year our block partook in the annual July 4th float contest. We did some funny olympic things.

Here is Sydney as an olympic gymnast:

and Grace was an olympic soccer player:

they looked sooooo cute! And it really was very fun and not quite as hot as some years past. Just a mere 90 degrees. Hey, that's good people.

After the parade we had a dog contest at our park. Lily B got the prize for cutest smile! I'm pretty sure she got that last year as well.

And as for fireworks, we had an amazing time watching them at the Sportsman's. The show started at 9:45 and only lasted about 20 minutes. Perfect...

...and priceless!

mid-summerish checkin

2008-06-17T20:14:00.005-05:00

It's a summer of highs and lows so far...

Highlight #1: summer is here and Grace continues to want to be entertained at theater camp ALL DAY LONG, just like last year. And I have to say, she was unbelievable in her first performance. Sorry, I don't have any picture or video, which leads me into the...

Lowlight #1:
my purse and all its contents were stolen from my car. Yes, the window was shattered and my precious coach bag, coach wallet, brand spankin new camera, car keys, checkbook,$100 and other important things were ripped from my life forever. And yes, you heard that correctly, the car keys, the ones that could have been inserted into said car and driven off. And yes, the checkbook, with the home address typed on the front. but....

Highlight#2: the next morning an amazing human that is going straight to heaven, found my keys, checkbook, drivers license! and miscellaneous items. The man actually called my bank to report that he had found these things dumped in a trash can. Good people.

Highlight #3:
Sydney is officially pee-pee potty trained. I was always going to try the week of Memorial Day, but she decided to do it on her own the week before. Words cannot describe how exciting this time is. She has only had 1 accident since the last week in May. Seriously amazing. We are working on the poop thing now.

Lowlight #3:
Sydney's anesthesiologist took his own life a couple weeks ago. Apparently he was pretty deep into drugs and alcohol. Good to know.

Highlight #4:
My social/lazy life abruptly ended the first week of June when I was 2nd in charge of the vacation bible school at my church. WOW. It was the busiest I've been in a very long time. When I left around 12:30 everyday, I could have gone home and slept for the rest of the evening. But my kids weren't allowing that. Thank you to all the amazing volunteers--KJ I'm talking to you! I'll be in charge of it next year. Lord, help me. No, really, Lord, I need helppppppp!!!!!!!!!!!

Lowlight #4:
Sydney is still scared of all bugs living on this planet. Upon seeing them they are met with blood curdling screams. Good God child it's a flippin beetle.

Highlight #5:
We were at the park the other day for a fourth of July float meeting, which included some chips,lemonade and random neighborhood children when Sydney shouted at me from across the park, "Mom, is this my birthday party???" Funniest thing I've heard since Grace's wedding observations.

Lowlight:
We decided last minute not to go to the Death Cab for Cutie show in Dallas. Me=Sad.

I believe that wraps it up thus far. So, until the next installment...

Questions and Conversations by Grace

2008-05-25T13:41:00.003-05:00

Last night we went to a big wedding for a family friend and we allowed Grace to go. I am so happy we did.

1). "Are they all getting married?????" (In reference to the 8 bridesmaids and groomsmen.)

2). "When are they gonna kiss??? That guy is such a blabber mouth!!!!!" (In reference to the priest.)

3). "I just walked up to the lady that got married and asked her when they are gonna cut the cake." (In reference to the bride and the late hour.)

Good God, this girl is a veritable hoot! And an embarrassment! But so flippin cute!

chore charts

2008-05-17T19:45:00.006-05:00

Yep, it's that time of year again. My kids have decided to junk up/clutter my home. Oh wait, that was me. Whoops. None the less, they don't help matters. About a year ago, I started a chore chart for Grace and she actually did really well, collecting stars and selecting her treat. And because she has my knack for tidiness, or lack of knack, we've started it up again. I can generally handle the usual pair of shoes here and there, but when I see her deliberately drop her belongings at the doorstep with NO afterthought, my blood boils!!! Hence, the chore chart.

So, Grace being the ever competitive soul, says, "well, what about Sydney, she's the messiest thing on the planet." Hmmmmm, good point. And while I didn't think she would give two shits about a star, I thought, what the hell, if it makes Grace feel the fairness, why not?

And would you believe, she actually gives a shit!! Well, not a big one, but big enough for this:

and this:

Cute, no??

And by 'brush hair' I mean without screaming bloody murder...and she actually did it. Grace was less than thrilled, seeing that she has already lost several stars. But, hey, it was her idea. Maybe she'll keep her mouth closed next time!! Of course, she had to tell Sydney "good job" and she said it with as much enthusiasm as the teens from Pump It Up. Hahahahahaha! Oh how I love the irony that is called life.

Oh yeah, baby.

me - fat = yay!!

2008-05-07T18:22:00.007-05:00

Okay, quite obviously my 10 readers have completely abandoned me because I am a shitty poster!! I only have myself to blame. That being said, this will be a good time to show before and after pictures of my weight loss-- 20lbs since January 1!! Woo-Hoo for moi!

Here is Before:

And after:

Sigh. One day my children will care. Or perhaps not. It was a mixture of healthy eating (thank you weight watchers cookbooks!!), tons of water and pilates. Go me!

dooce is my hero

2008-05-03T20:28:00.008-05:00

and this is why I worship the ground this woman walks on...

and just to add the exploitative-ness...

the cuteness...

OMG she looks so grown up...

It's still alive...

3 sisters...

SCORE!!!!

2008-04-07T19:43:00.003-05:00

I swear I'm not a soccer mom, but, really, my child scored her first goal!!!! This is no small feat. This is the same child that scored a goal FOR THE OTHER TEAM a mere 6 months ago. Can you say D-e-v-a-s-t-a-t-i-n-g???

So, let me tell you all about this earthshattering moment. Okay, she stole the ball from the tallest girl at midfield....

Okay, fine, I didn't actually see it. BUT I walked up one minute after it happened. Does that count? Let's see who I can blame this on. Daddy, of course! He's my scapegoat for all things that go wrong.

Although I was really sad that I missed it, I was very excited for her. No, they didn't win and are still 0-4541354, but all is now right with the world.

The pictures are deceiving...

2008-04-02T21:03:00.008-05:00

Okay, so it wasn't all bad...although you won't see the Starr family as a whole in Las Vegas ever again. The girls can go with their friends when they are 21. Until then, it's malls and pools and local zoos for us!!!
I had to take a picture of the girls in the "O" of "Revolution" at the Mirage. Moments after this picture was taken, they were assaulted by mirage staff to MOVE!!!! There is no dawdling in Vegas, which doesn't fare well for my girls, who are the queens of taking their time. So that didn't help.

The dolphins were a huge hit with us. So much so, that when Wade was stuck in bed with his vomit and diarrhea, we went TWICE! Such fun! You know you're in trouble when you have to go to the same place two times in 4 days. But, they are amazing creatures, that I happen to know A LOT about now.
The white tigers were also within the dolphin area and were also a humongous hit with us. This included me (and Wade who went the first time ). They were absolutely gorgeous and frightening all at the same time.
Here is Sydney talking to a "dolphin". She actually thought it was real and gave him hugs and kisses. You can see the seriousness in their discussion.
The shark reef at Mandalay Bay, also fun (but really big). Grace got to touch sting rays and they are standing in front a jellyfish tank. It was stunning.
Grace and I standing in front of Cirque De Soleil at the Bellagio. Again, a lot of variables were off in this one as well. Our seats were way to high making it almost impossible to see and the show itself was way too dramatic and slow for g-dawg. Hence, she fell asleep around 9pm. It was the poop icing on the shit cake. In case anyone ever goes with their kids (which they won't), definitely see the CDS Beatles' show. I kicked myself for not booking that one.

So now you know what went down in Vegas. It was not pretty, people. Thankfully, we have made it past this horrendous week--with marriage pretty much intact--and children no worse for the wear. The end.

seven

2008-03-28T14:54:00.003-05:00

I know it seems trite, but. my God. My child is getting so freakin old. Gone is the baby face, the small teeth and the silky smooth skin. She is developing into such a sweet child. It breaks my heart a little bit. I am so proud to say she's mine.

Easter 2008

2008-03-25T14:23:00.003-05:00

Here we are last Sunday at a friend of the family's. Wade's probably going to get his feelings hurt that he didn't make it into this family picture, but OH WELL, our livlihood is based largely on the restaurant and the holidays, so we deal with it. We did miss you though Daddy.

Stay tuned for LV pictures, they are sure not to disappoint.

Let this be a reminder

2008-03-22T13:25:00.003-05:00

to all you people out there that are considering going on a trip to Las Vegas with your children that it is NOT A GOOD IDEA. Oh, wait, you would never do that, would you. Only crazy people would think that would be a good idea.

Yeah.

Where to begin.

Let's just say there were a variety of variables that went wrong. I lost my new camera. Sydney acted like we were torturing her with nails and a hammer, straight with lying down in the middle of the casino tantruming. Several different times. Our "nanny" talked on her phone the entire time and all Grace asked was "WHEN ARE WE GOING TO GO SWIMMING."

And the clincher. The stomach bug. In the form of vomit and diarrhea. Which happened during our only scheduled outing by ourselves at an amazing restaurant that I made reservations for a month ago. Yep. Wade was in bed by 8:00 pm on Wednesday night and vomiting by 10:00.

So I did what any wife would do. Gamble. I kept thinking, "I have got to make something about this trip salvageable." And if you think that was heartless of me, don't worry, I paid for it. Although he gave me permission to leave, I paid for it with subtle jabs the next day.

Spring Break 2009 is already decided. Someplace close with a pool. Period.

When Robitussin Attacks

2008-02-15T09:10:00.003-06:00

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

I'm just so happy to get to share with you what a complete and total nutcase my child turns into when presented with cough syrup. This video is a little over one minute, but you must watch it in its entirety because the face she makes after taking the syrupy nastiness is priceless!

To keep or not to keep...

2008-02-11T19:35:00.000-06:00

If you've had the pleasure to speak with me lately...well, it may have been an unpleasurable experience. I've been a bit of a grump lately. So I'm apologizing for that right now. But! there is a good reason for my unpleasant mood. You see, my brother and I have had the shitasheous job of basically ransacking my parents house in order to get out anything we want/deserve before the gigantic estate sale in a couple of weeks.

All I have to say is thank goodness they had moved out of the house I grew up in already! Now, that would have been a really shitasheous job!! But, alas, this has been pretty miserable in itself. I just don't know what to keep vs what to get rid of. Some of you may already know that I'm not exactly a "keeper" of things. I like to throw away everything. My mother was the opposite. She was a shopper/keeper of shit. So, I'm okay with getting rid of most things, but there is this small part of me that knows she is dying? inside. I really just do not want or have room for it. Sorry mom.

And then there is the fact that my dad seems to think they he has to get rid of every.last.picture. Including all pictures of my mom, me, Grace etc. What's that about? He seems to be eradicating this family from himself. I guess I'll have to live with that. He left a folder with my name on it that had HIS WEDDING PICTURE of he and my mom, among other sentimental pictures. It makes me sad, but maybe he's wanting me to keep them safe. Who knows. It just feels...awkward and strangely disloyal.

I am trying to keep my chin up, as I say to my kids, but this extracurricular work seems to be kicking my ass! Crawling in a hole sounds kinda comforting...although I did find a diary from 1984 that made me laugh so hard I cried, which was almost worth it. But not quite.

couch tater

2008-02-02T19:54:00.001-06:00

Obviously, she was born the wrong gender.

I JEST!!

She just loves her Diego and her Oreo's.

Pretty much like my evenings, except I watch LA Ink and nibble on Jenny Craig cheesecake.

Like mother, like daughter.

The Quick Trip

2008-01-27T19:40:00.000-06:00

I totally forgot to write about our funnnn trip to Vegas! Probably because it lasted all of 36 hours annnnd Abigail died the morning after we returned.

Here's Wade and I looking super cute, no? And he's wearing his HOT PINK sunglasses. Tell me, what man would be comfortable enough with his manliness to wear these?

Once again, Vegas didn't disappoint. God, I freakin' love that place. The flights were eazy breazy, although everyone is in agreement--DO NOT TRAVEL SOUTHWEST VACATIONS-- too many horror stories from the friends. Anywho, the room was great (mirage), the gambling (blackjack and texas hold 'em) was awesome and the food (nobhill, burger bar and Japonais) was killer!!!!!!!

Here is Ashli and myself, she's looking high, as usual. I mean, she's not high usually, just kinda always looks like it in pictures.

I have to admit, going to Vegas with 3 other couples had me worried because it's not exactly a couply-kind-of-place. But it rocked and we laughed our asses off. And, of course, the small sweet victory of NOT having to change diapers and fix sippy cups of juice for a few short minutes.

Back to reality!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2 years

2008-01-23T19:42:00.000-06:00

Unbelievably, it has been two years since the passing of my mother. January 23, 2006 was most definitely the day that changed my life forever. It sounds so trite, but you really can never be prepared.

Sadly, I was unable to make it to her grave today. Grace really wants to go and put down some pictures she has drawn for her, and I had to work late. Which was actually a God-send.

My favorite picture of us, taken Christmas Eve, just a month before she died.

Seriously, does she even look sick?

What a blessing.

(P.S. thank you hens, love you.)

R.I.P.

2008-01-22T20:59:00.000-06:00

I don't even know how to tell the blogworld this utterly devastating news.

Our sweet, adorable little birdie is dead.

It really is sooo sad and we JUST trained her to stop freaking out when we open her cage and she had definitely taken to Grace, who had recently learned to get her in and out of the cage herself and walk her around on her shoulder.

The way she died is what is so absolutely horrid. She found a way out of her cage (WADE STOP ASKING HOW SHE GOT OUT) and, get ready, one of the dogs killed her. Grace saw the bird in Curly's mouth and started screaming bloody murder. Then I came in the room and started screaming at the dogs at the top of my lungs and then Wade came down the stairs assuming that someone was missing a limb and confirmed the news: she was indeed dead. Most likely a puncture to the lung.

I cannot tell you how sad my daughter was. She cried and cried until her face was melting off. And there was not a God Damn things I could do. Except hug her and tell her I was so sorry. Seriously. This is not okay.

Saddest part of the entire event. Sydney was bawling while we were screaming and she kept repeating the phrase, "sissy, STICKY TAPEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!" For those of you that don't know Dora, sticky tape is what she used to repair a hot air balloon and various other broken gear. So sad. And also really freakin' smart.

R.I.P. Abigail. I'm sorry I couldn't protect you from the big bad wolves.

for the love of money

2008-01-19T07:17:00.000-06:00

Oh, it's on!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It's less than 7 hours I will be hitting the tables in crazy L-V.

Awe yeah.

Annnnnnnnd, I'm 8 pounds lighter!! So, bring on the foodddddddd................

Wish me luck, peeps!

So

2008-01-11T15:30:00.000-06:00

My husband gets to go on a vacation with his best friend this weekend. Must be nice. Sheesh. Truth be told, I am happy for him, as he never gets to do anything fun. Unless you count working and being with me and our children.

Borrrringggg.

So, being the kind of person I am, I waited until today (he left at 2:30) to give him shit. Hey, I could been being bitchy for weeks. I'm nice.

Him: So what are you going to do this weekend?
Me: Just hangin out with the kids, AGAIN.

Now times that by about 10 and you can get a feeling for how our morning was.

He knows I am loathing, so he sent me these last night:

Duh, not helping.

End of an Era...maybe?!?!?

2008-01-06T14:44:00.000-06:00

We are on day 3 without a nap. She is, thankfully, still not complaining about going down for one, but I can hear her kicking and playing for about an hour before summoning me to her room.

Sigh.

Why do they have to grow up and shit.

Does anyone think it may be a phase? Does anyone care?

In other news: HAPPY 2008!!!!!!!!!!!!

I always love the start of the new year. So full of promises, so full of hope, so full of days to screw your kids up more...

Ahhhhhh, the positivity. I, of course, have to point out that 2007 was a pretty decent year for me in the "resolution" department. As most of you know, I quit smoking March 2007, and stayed smoke-free to this very day. Alas, this brings me to the start of my new resolution for 2008. As I type, I can see my belly in my peripheral vision. Thanks to my healthy resolution of no smoking, I have picked up a not so healthy habit of EATING LIKE A FUCKING PIG. So, the time has come to shed some pounds.

Y'all know I can do it.

the.wedding.

2007-12-30T13:30:00.000-06:00

It was hard, not gonna lie to you. I had this surreal feeling come over me during the exchanging of the vows. It's strange, because weddings are usually such a happy time. Wade and I normally look at each other, smile and remember that amazing feeling when we got married. I definitely did not have that feeling wash over me.

It was quick, the girls didn't walk down the aisle throwing flowers (much to Grace's dismay, "that was the most boring wedding EVER!"), and there were only 20 people at most.

Grace and Sydney looked precious, which is more than I can say for the others. Wow, that was rude. Here are some pics to shut up my bitchiness.

The after party was a freakin madhouse, to which Wade and I only stayed about an hour. The girls had fun, but I was seriously worried that Sydney was going to trip and kill an old person. She was damn excited to be staying up so late.

Which brings us to the funniest picture of the night.

Get it girl! Eat that shitty food!

Meet the Newest Member of Our Family

2007-12-27T14:02:00.000-06:00

This is Abigail:

And the best part:

Probably not exactly the surprise he was hoping for.

Heeheeheehee.

The 2nd Christmas

2007-12-23T08:20:00.000-06:00

Grace continues to amaze me in her memory and/or willingness to remember my mom. For those of you that know G, are already aware of her, ahem, inability to see the big picture.... But today, 2 days before Christmas, she feels the need to tell Sydney about my mom.

"Cici is dead, " to which Sydney replies, "oh (pondering)..., sissy dead."

After a lot of, "no, cici, not sissy" talk, Grace goes on to tell her that it is okay that she is dead because she still lives in "here" and points to her chest.

*Insert me DYING*

I shit you not. I have never told her that. I'm sure someone has, but nonetheless, it is strange to hear my six year old say these words.

We then go downstairs and Grace tells me that she is going to draw a beautiful picture for Cici. For Christmas. Because it was her favorite holiday.

She's trying to kill me.

How does she remember this? It may be because we still talk about her (at least Wade, my brother and I) and she has simply heard it from our mouths. Who knows? It still breaks my heart.

And makes me proud.

Mary had a sad little lamb...

2007-12-20T14:03:00.000-06:00

My youngest child broke my heart into several million little pieces today.

She didn't want to perform in the theater as a little lamb. She wanted to sit on my lap and watch the other children perform the worst Christmas play to date. But, nooooooooo, her "teacher" wanted her to sit with the other children and sing the songs.

But she didn't want to.

(who is that poor motherless child in the background?)

And so I am the mother and I get to make those decisions. So she sat on my lap.

And was a happy little lamb.

The end.

Home Sweet Home

2007-12-15T15:12:00.001-06:00

You really never realize how much you take advantage of everyday conveniences, like, electricity, cable and heat. Sure, these are things that you don't get free, but, they are also things that you would never be without. Brief interlude for a little pic of the cutest snow bunny. And yes, she may be wearing the same socks that she wore Monday. Packing on the fly is hard!!

Our electricity came back on at 6 pm Wednesday night, and I was ecstatic!!!!!!!!!! We decided tostay in the hotel room one more night, because we had already paid for it and because our house was 49 degrees. Brrrrrr.... But we are definitely one of the lucky ones, so no complaining. Now we have to deal with insurance companies, which should be fun. NOT!! Here's how excited Rudolph is about talking to the insurance company AND delivering gifts:

The kids were also really excited to be back in their own beds, both marked by very little bickering our first day back. And I'll have you know I was so excited to be back that I actually did 4!! loads of laundry (Myself, people...which also included folding AND putting away), made chili in the crock pot and made blond brownies. Who's happy to have electric??!?!??

Me!! That's who! And Curly marked his excitement to be back by darting out the front door (for the billionth time in 2007), but Wade actually caught him with his bare hands, which is no small feat. Curly is a fast mo-fo. I just had to put this pic up because both Wade and Curly look cute after the above mentioned capture!

So, all is right in the Starr house. And thankfully it did not snow a bizillion inches like they thought! God owes OK some apologies here!

the view from my window

2007-12-11T09:50:00.001-06:00

And that was our trampoline.

And, no, we are not at home. We are sitting comfortably in a hotel in downtown OKC after losing power on Sunday night. That NEVER came back on. And they think it may be upwards of a week.

And there was a tree in my dining room. And I'm not talking about a Christmas tree.

I do believe my worst nightmare is coming true. No school, no babysitter, no electricity, NO SANITY!!!!!

outtakes

2007-12-08T20:10:00.000-06:00

I was determined to get a cute pic with the girls together for a Christmas card because THAT NEVER HAPPENS!!! I've been trying with my camera phone for the last 2 months to no avail. Thankfully the lovely Camille offered her expertise and came to the house this a.m. to attempt to "catch" them both looking decent. And when I say both I mean Sydney. Grace knows that when I'm trying to take some serious pics, she's supposed to smile with all her might. But Sydney is a pain in the rump. She purposefully makes silly faces just to make me cry. And loves it. Most of the pics were awesome, but here are a few of the, ahem, less than pretty ones.

Now, obviously I'm not going to show you the good ones just yet (I'm sure everyone can hardly contain their excitement). You'll be seeing them in the darrrrling Christmas cards I just ordered form here. And if you don't think I'm going to send you one, then send me your address and I'll do it!!! You know you want one!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

(Thank you so much Camille!)

(Thank you so much Bubby for helping put our house together for Christmas!)

Flashback Tuesday

2007-12-04T14:30:00.000-06:00

This picture was taken last year, November 30, 2006. It's around 70 degrees today! Oh, snow, where have you gone??

Although, I do hate school snow days!

hi-ho, hi-ho, to the doctor we go...

2007-11-26T20:38:00.000-06:00

What an amzingly horrible couple of days I've been subjected to!! Now, I'm not complaining tooooo much because I have definately had worse (read: rotavirus at 9 months!!!! WORST SICKNESS TO DATE). But, my Lord. The Sickness That Has Invaded Our House. And I'm not even talking about vomit. Which everyone knows sends me right over the edge. Grace has a "bacterial throat infection." Which means, in layman's terms, that he tested for strep. Negative. He tested for Mono. Negative. Thankfuckinggod (Because I asked what that would mean and he said 2 weeks in bed...)So, the winner is the above diagnosis. Her throat looked so bad the doctor MADE me look at it. Even after I told him I didn't like that kind of thing. But he would not take no for an answer. So I looked. And people, it was sick. It looked like an explosion of pus, swelling and red dots. Which is why I didn't wanna look in the first place!!! So she gets a z-pack which is supposed to kill every bad (and prolly good) bacteria in your entire body. If this doesn't work who knows what they will do. He was pretty sure it was all related to that damn streppppppclkjdlkjfcous, or however it's spelled. Damn those strep bacteria's. They never die. Grrrrrr.....

So, of course, I had our new fine doctor peeeek inside Sydney's ears and BAM-O! double ear infection. He said they looked awful. But he didn't make me look. And she had no fever. Still hasn't. Weird, huh? So we left that fine establishment with antibiotics for all. Which is the first time they had both been on them at the same time. Lucky again.

Fast forward to today, Tuesday. Grace was feeling 90 percent better, but because of the 105 fever yesterday, I agreed to keep her home from school. Begrudingly. Kidding. I decided to send Sydney since she never had a fever. WE WERE SO SICK OF EACH OTHER. All of us. Grace was hyper/loud/jumpy/talkative. I was sooo happy she was feeling better, but, my God The Talking. And once Sydney was home from school, the talking to me shifted to the bothering of her. I'm sure it was because she was bored. But she was pissing the 2 year old off and LOVING every minute of it. I wanted to kill them both.

And then Sydney fell off a chair and damn near knocked out her teeth. It was the shit-icing on top of the vomit cake. But, alas, she was fine. Again, it could have been much worse. Of course, she talked about her boo-boo on her cheek/chin the rest of the entire night. But, hell, I don't really blame her. She gave herself one mighty fine shiner.

Bedtime, glorious bedtime. And my head is freakin' killing me (and my throat kinda hurts too...NOOOOOOO).

Flashback Tuesday

2007-11-20T07:08:00.000-06:00

Just perusing through the photos and came upon Grace's first birthday. A few things stuck out.

Exhibit A: My husband and daughter were in dire need of a tan---damn those Chicago winters (...notice I don't show a picture of myself).

Exhibit B: I had a lot of freakin' time on my hands. Look at the detail on that cake!! Good times. Poor Sydney

Exhibit C: WHERE HAS MY LIFE GONE??????????????????? It's only been 6 years, can you imagine how I'm going to feel in the year 2021??

The Hens--a montage

2007-11-17T17:50:00.001-06:00

Well, folks, this is really a shout out to my Oklahoma City girlfriends, aptly named, The Hens. One of our husbands overheard us talking one day and said we sounded like a bunch of clucking hens, thus our name. These are the ladies that I met at Grace's mother's day out a short 4? years ago. And now we are like family. Closer than family, really. There are 13 kids between the 6 of us and, no shit if they don't think they are related.

Oh we've had our ups and downs. I mean how could you not with such smart, interesting, outspoken, stubborn and opinionated women. But with the exception of one fall out (see monkey/dinosaur on montage), we've stuck together. We all have our own set of strengths and limitations that truly make us who we are as individuals and as a group.

So, this is for you, ladies. Thank you for filling my monotonous days with laughter and friendship. I (and the kids) love you (and your kids).

Sisters forever!!

halloween-er

2007-11-16T07:12:00.000-06:00

Hey, I'm on time about things that matter...I finally stole some pics off my dads camera and they're cute!! This is our new neighbor, who is also in kindergarten with G. I'm prolly gonna get sued for not marking out her face--but I forgot how to do that!

Here is our adorable family, plus scary butler guy rented for the Deadman's Ball the night before, plus Lily. Who might as well be part of our family. Isn't Wade's costume awesome?? More on that later.

And here is the 2nd little-ist witch, although she acts like the biggest one. HA! Isn't she cute??

And then there's me. What am I you ask? I'm a plus size Vampiress. Oh, relax, I'm not getting insecure, I accidently bought the plus size costume. (Psst...it wasn't that big!). I looked so inspired, no?

And then there's Wade. Let's get one thing straight. This was his costume for the Halloween party the night before. He did not trampce around Crown Heights in this get-up.

Look closely...he's the snake charmer.

So inappropriate and funny as hell!!!!!!!!

HaHaHaHaHa!!!!!!!!!

flashback Tuesday

2007-11-13T08:33:00.000-06:00

No words can express the love I have for this picture.

It all ends up in the same place

2007-11-11T19:25:00.000-06:00

What an amazing day!!! It's funny how your day can start off so ho-hum and end up spectacular. Well, that my be a bit of an exaggeration, but it was a damn fine day!! We went to brunch with my good friend Kathryn (sans Grace-she was with Daddy Dad). The little girls were soooo good and had soooo much fun. I just want to start out by apologizing to Kathryn for Sydney teaching Hailey J. the art of dipping.

Oh, I'm sure you are thinking about ketchup or ranch. Nope. It's milk.

I do not know why, but lately Sydney has been dipping, dunking and downright soaking all her food items in milk. It really is disgusting. The only thing I can make of it is that she loves cereal with milk, and the idea from that was born. Maybe? She made Grace so sick the other day putting, no lie here, green beans and peaches in her milk and then eating/drinking it all. What? It all goes to the same place, right? It's still apart of all the major food groups. Just really wet and nasty!!

Anyway, we had a blast catching up and because of our schedules, we never get to see each other. SO FUN!!!

And THEN, my friend Meredith (here from Cali) came by with her kids (age 1 and 3). They just played and played. Of course, Grace was in charge of the trampoline rules and etiquette. So we got to catch up.

And THEN, my other friend from highschool, Kadie, came over with her little girl (11 months). She and Meredith had seen each other last night at a wedding and made plans to do this get-together. So then we got to catch up. It was an afternoon of catching up!! So.much.fun.

And THEN, my husband came home for the night.

Perfection, I tell ya.

she didn't have it for 6 years

2007-11-05T20:29:00.000-06:00

I'm talking about STREP THROAT!!!! She's had it 2 times in one month. Ok, fine, I didn't quite finish ALL the antibiotics last time, but my God. 10 days...2 times a day... that shit is tough. No, but really the PA said it probably wasn't because of that. SO THERE!! All you haters.

I'm back to washing my hands like a mad woman. Not letting Grace breath near Sydney. It makes me nervous. I don't want the little bi-polar lady to get it. She would NOT be a good patient. Just a feeling.

Anyone wanna babysit tomorrow? C'mon, she's cute...and she wears her headbands like this? How could you say no to that?!?!?

she made it all by herself

2007-11-03T14:53:00.000-05:00

Flashback, almost Tuesday.

2007-10-29T19:46:00.000-05:00

Okay I know I have posted this before, a year ago to be exact, but it is sooo freakin' cute. And I can't believe this is the same child. Seriously.

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Share Photos - Free Video Hosting

WaLk for the CuRe

2007-10-20T11:54:00.000-05:00

Yeah, it's supposed to be "Run for the Cure," but, you know, the kids were with us. Otherwise, I definately would have run. Ha! I'm funny. But really, thank you summer for inviting us to walk. The kids were really into it and it felt great to do something so feel good for such an amazing cause. I loved it!

Don't foget to check out myspace for additional photos.

A different post

2007-10-16T14:05:00.000-05:00

Hi all- I really just wanted to change the post because Summer was tired of loading, "Ginny the Hero," and since I do whatever Summer says, then there you go!!

Not much at the Casa De Starr's except a few interesting and fun tidbits, in no particular order:

My husband had strep throat last week and was in bed for 6 days. No lie. As much as I would like to say he was being a baby, blah, blah, he really was sooo sick. I actually felt sorry for him. Don't get me wrong, I felt sorry for myself too. I was a single parent for the week!

We went to OU/TX the weekend before last with the Scott's and the Steel's. It was so_much_fun that I cannot even express. So relaxing and enjoyable. I will eventually post some pics when Ashli sends me some. Fun was had and Ashli was as crass as ever!

Our longtime housekeepers quit. These were the folks that brought their kids every week and were like siblings to Grace. She was so upset! And so was I. The cleaning was secondary to the actual relationships. But, alas, the mom despised my darling husband and decided to be done with us. Sigh.

My dad is still annoying, but I decided to be nice to him. It's really pointless to be mad at him. It gets me nowhere and only makes me feel worse. So I am back to being nice again.
I finally got a myspace. I feel kinda old in doing it, but it's been fun! Go over there and check it out right here.

Ginny the hero!!

2007-09-15T09:26:00.000-05:00

There is nuttin' worth a damn to report for the Starr family right now. Oh sure, schools started and activities have begun, but it's been really uneventful around here.

Except for this:

Meet the newest member of our family: Lily B. I had to do a little intervention on her obvious neglect. And now she lives with us!! Oh my, 3 dogs. That's the limit when it comes to the law! Who would have guessed! Ginny the dog saver! While it has taken a little getting used to, the barking, loud playing and FARTING, she really is sooo happy and doesn't have to sleep outside anymore :[

As for everything else in our life....this about sums it up....

The big SD

2007-08-23T09:22:00.000-05:00

So our trip to San Diego was amazing. The weather was a ridiculous 75 degrees, sunny and well, be-autiful! Grace had the time of her life boogie boarding in the ocean and building sand castles. Sydney was a bit more of a challenge. Her moods changed like the salt-laden winds. Whew! We all agreed that she was not allowed to go on another vacation until she was three. Everyone knows this is a tough age, but I think she's winning in the high-maintenance, bratty, demanding, diva-esque department! What can I say, we are a family of winners!!

Anyway, it was so good to see my bestest friend, Meredith and her kids and hubby. We got to go to SeaWorld, the zoo, shopping, seal-watching (a fav of Sydney's, although she calls them otters) and the BEACH!!!! We had a few problems with our hotel and service (or lack-therof), but overall the trip was awesome. Grace asked us everyday how many more days we had in California because she was "not going back to Oklahoma!" Ha! Too bad we have our roots firmly planted in a booring, land-locked, sweaty state! Oh well, guess that's why we have vacations!

Didn't I mention diva?

It's good to be back!!

Flashback Tuesday!

2007-08-21T13:29:00.000-05:00

Bet you thought I'd never do another one of those!! But you were wrong!! I'm working on a post about our trip to San Diego last week, so until then...

Flashback Tuesday!!!!!

2007-08-07T14:48:00.000-05:00

Yeah, this is my new thing for Tuesdays because it's fun and because I know all you people love, love, love to see my family pictures!!

So here we go. Here is a pic of Anna and Grace fourth of July 2005. Right before Sydney was born. Can y'all even believe this!?!?!?

Berfday Lovin'

2007-07-23T19:43:00.000-05:00

Well, enough of the last post! Let's move onto more sweet, adorable news! Like Sydney's birthday party!!! She doesn't actually turn 2 until Thursday, but since my dad is going gallivanting around Alaska with his new *cough* fiance *cough* we thought we would have it early. To accommodate him. Cause I'm nice like that.

Let us now turn to the future Mr. and Mrs. Steel:Sickly cute, no?

And here is one of the singing with her sisters, Grace and Lily. Who I just found out today, actually blew out Sydney's candles. Which we have video proof of. Don't worry, Ash, Sydney will be blowing out her other sister, Stella's, birthday candle in August. Paybacks.

And finally, the one gift that I actually let her open already. Her new baby with crib. I know, I'm brilliant. The baby has a bottle filled with milk, that Sydney calls, "Nulk". I swear she has fed that baby a gallon of nulk and taken her out of her crib 10 dozen times already. So. effing. cute.

Sydney had a blast, loved the suckers and thanks to everyone that came a partook(is that a word?) in the festivities. While it was mildly awkward to have our "new" family members attend, I was pretty much able stay away by quickly moving from room to room. Thankfully my brother did all the dirty work!!! Good job Bubby!!

All I gots to say is WOW

2007-07-22T13:05:00.000-05:00

Well, let's just start this out with the latest news:

Let's take a closer look:

Excuse me while I go and puke.

2007-07-20T19:26:00.001-05:00

4 months ago today, anyone, anyone, Bueller?!?!?

no wonder she had bacterial pneumonia

2007-07-17T19:43:00.000-05:00

This is no shizz. The other day at a Mexican restaurant I looked behind me to see what Sydney was doing (y'all know, she was being quiet) and to my utter dismay she was sticking her fingers in this poor woman's plumbers butt crack. I swear to Gawd I nearly spit my food out and crapped my pants all at the same time. Craziest part, the woman DID NOTHING. Let's hope it was just because she was embarrased!

to camp or not to camp

2007-07-14T10:55:00.000-05:00

ok, no, not that kind of camp! You know I will not be out there in the wilds without the conveniences of modern life, whoa nelly!

What I am referring to is summer camp. My 6 year old is obsessed. She has been going to a theatre camp at OCU since the last week of June (well, actually she started last summer). This camp is from Monday to Friday 9-4. 9-4!! That's longer than a school day. But she.loves.it. This past Friday was her little performance and she had about a dozen lines. This was the most she has ever had and she was totally into it. She was telling everyone the right place to stand, motioning people on stage when it was their turn, and of course, reminding all the absentminded of their forgotten lines. And trust me, she knew all the lines. I leaned over to Wade and mentioned that maybe we should get her into the directing of plays! Anyway, yesterday evening I reminded her that she was going to take a week off next week and could resume the following week, and boy oh boy did the waterworks come forth. She just boo hooed, "But I love theatre camp!" Grace tell me why you love it so much? "Because I get to play with kids, learn my lines, make my costumes, play games, have a snack and have lunch, it's so fun." But Grace, daddy was going to take you to White Water one day next week and we were just gonna hang out, you know, me and you. "But no mommy, we have plenty of time to hang out after camp." Wow. I swear I am at a loss. Now, some of you may be wondering why I am even bringing this up. She loves camp, so SEND HER! And I hear ya. But there is this little part of my that feels guilt. Most of those children are there because there parents work full-time and they need an all day alternative. Not me. She could be hanging out with her FAMILY, her other playmates but she doesn't want to. Then there is the other part of me that thinks, well, really, what is so special about hanging with me/Raye/Diddy all day. She'll be playing in the gym day care room, watching t.v. with her Raye Raye while Diddy sleeps and running errands with me! I mean there really is no question to be answered here. I will send her as long as she wants to go. In all actuality, I am very thankful that she loves this camp, and am thankful to be able to provide her with it, but gee, guess I'm just a big 'ole fat bore!!! (click this pic to enlarge the happiness!!)

Just wondering what your thoughts were on this matter?!?!?

the face of pneumonia

2007-07-11T14:38:00.001-05:00

a hellish (sun)day!

2007-06-24T13:25:00.000-05:00

*UPDATE*

Well, Mr. Consierate finally showed up at 2:15, apologizing profusely for his tardiness. Funny enough, he brought her back at 3:15 saying that he was going to hit a few golf balls. Mkay. And if my day wasn't painful enough, one of my husband's best buddies in from Chicago, came over tonight with his 8 year old son and 55 year old mother. I have a lot of experience with this particular woman and she is the most annoying woman in town. Guess who got to sit and talk to her for 2 hours while the kids played with the dad's? You know it!

Whew! I am already ready for this day to be over. Both kids woke up before I even had a chance to brew coffee. This is not too unusual, but they had both been sleeping a little later since our vacation. Not anymore!! Grace really wanted to go on a walk sometime today and the only time I could forsee this was before 9. We went yesterday about 10 and it was already 80 degrees. So we had some cereal and took off. I decided to take Curly with us since Grace likes to push the stroller, I can manhandle the dog through the streets. Besides a little pulling of the leash and barking at squirrels, he did pretty well. I thought it would be good for him, you know, blow off some steam, get a little exercise. So you'll be suprised to know that when I came home from church, he had chewed half my house up. Curly hasn't chewed things in a long time. He had chewed up crayons, a styrofoam cup, a sippy cup, one of Grace's flip-flops (that she loves, of course). Why?!??! No really, I am asking all you freakin' dog lovers. Why would my dog thank me by chewing up all my shit?!?!?!? So.Pissed.

And about church you ask. DD picked us up, as he always does and we go to church. On the way, I ask him if maybe he'd like to take Grace this afternoon for a few hours since she hasn't seen him in a week. You know, Mr. freakin' social. Sure, love to. Great!! I'll feed them and bring her by around 12:30 and then come by when Sydney wakes up. Great!!

Cut to the end of church, DD is talking to AF, discussing something that appears to involve some thinking. He walks up to me, "okay, great, yeah, just bring her by around 1, actually let me call you when I get home." He walks off. Ummmmm....."DD, are you leaving?" I am so confused at this point. "yes." "Okayyyyy, and how are we getting home?" Ding. The memory light bulb goes off. "oh, hang on, I'll be right back." He comes back minutes later. Mimi and Paco can take us. So what, you ask is sooo important that we have to lug the carseat to another car to ge a ride home 10 minutes away. Give me f*cking break. I walk up to AF's daughter, "wow, my dad forgot that he had to take us home and has arranged someone else to take us." She (who really is so sweet) says, " Oh, I just assumed you would come with us." My reply, "which is?" She says, "brunch." Oh yea, that would be nice. God forbid he take his daughter and granddaughters with him. This is the same man that when I asked him if he was going to the wine dinner tonight at DF he replied, "yea, I guess so. I was hoping to have a night off." Yea right. F*CKING LIAR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Okay, I feel better now. Not really, but whatever. So. It is now 2pm and Grace is sitting here waiting for him to come and get her!! Still waiting!!! Sydney is upstairs, not sleeping. She has been playing/whining for an hour. I cannot even remember the last time she didn't take a nap.

Aarg. This day sucks.

Happy Gay Day!!

nutshell version

2007-06-18T20:23:00.000-05:00

Well, peeps, so much has happened since my last post. I know, I suck in the new posting arena. Let's see: Grace decided that she didn't want to talk to me about the fact that she had gum in her hair and chose to cut her hair AGAIN!! She is so destined to be a hairstylist. Which would be cool cause then she could be on that show Shear Genius, oh wait, I would rather her be on the show So You Think You Can Dance. My new obsession. God, Wade has got to be so embarrassed by me! Anyway! I decided to not be mad and told her that we would have to get a summer cut and she was all, "GREAT!!" So, hmmm, no punishment or consequence there. And here is a pic of the VERY short cut:

We went on our annual trip this summer, this time to San Antonio. Most of you out there are maybe wondering why we would go to such a destination and I am here to tell you that it is the bomb. It's only an hour 15 minute flight, no time change, plenty of sunshine, pools and SEAWORLD!! We really wanted to go to San Diego to see Mere and fam, but this really worked out better for this summer. It was paradise I tell you. I could have stayed several more days! Both kids were so good, although Grace was completely against the camp the hotel offered, which was fine since Sydney was too young to go. I finally got out the fact that she was shy meeting new friends. Huh??!? I noticed that she was not as chatty with the other kids as in vacations past. Hope that phase passes quickly. I can remember meeting lots of kids when my family went on vacation. I do think I was older though. While Grace was amazing on the trip, I noticed a little extra eye-rolling and heavy sighing. Hmmm....not too sure what that's all about. I do not like bratty behavior! I'll have to keep my eye on that one! Anyway, fun was had by all including super-daddy! The kids are going through some serious daddy withdrawal this week. Every 5 seconds Sydney asks, "where's daddy?" So cute!!

Her first pedicure, get em started early,bitches! Am I really that surprised that she acting bratty?!? Duh!

Syd got a beautiful braid like sissy and here she is admiring the woman's work. Hah!

Syd and her daiquiri, chillin' at the "beach".

Grace lost her 6th tooth! Whew! She's keeping that tooth fairy b-u-s-y!!!!! I know, who really cares except me and Wade.

Today is my mom's birthday. June 18th. You wanna know how my dad celebrated that! He took Grace to his girlfriend's house for a party, didn't pay attention to what she was doing and, OOPS, there was a teeny-tiny accident involving my daughter's knees and a moving treadmill. Nice. The child is lucky she still has a face. Shizzzz.....

Grace told me today that she is postive you are getting cake in heaven. Happy birthday, mommy.

It's official

2007-06-06T19:33:00.001-05:00

Well folks, it appears the torrential downpour of rain has finally moved past the plains of OK and summer has officially arrived. My God, I think it rained for a month straight. And I am not one to talk about the weather! We couldn't go to the Sportsman's for Memorial weekend because of the rain, so we finally went this past weekend. I have to admit I was a bit worried how the little one AKA crusher would fare at the swimming pool. She is still a bit young for floaties on her own, but I knew she would want to do whatever "sissy" did. Sooooo, I was right (of course). She thought the water was a bit cold and she really wouldn't venture around. She continually wanted to take the floaties off because they are kinda big, but I stuck to my guns and made her keep them on. But hopefully she will continue to get more comfy around the water. I know she would love the baby pool, but it is on the other side and I don't think it's too smart to leave Grace all by herself quite yet. The pool with a toddler is definitely not a time of relaxation!! But they sure look cute, no?

MeMeMeMe...part 2

2007-05-28T13:15:00.000-05:00

No, I didn't forget about the next installment of my exciting self! We've been a little bummed out this holiday weekend due to the untimely virus that has descended upon our eldest child. Let's put it this way: I got a whopping 2 hours of sleep Friday night. Ouch! Luckily, this leads me to # 8 and 9 on this little game.

8. I absolutely hate vomit. I know most people don't prefer it, but it really sends me spiraling down into a black hole of depression (wow, dramatic much!). As a child, vomiting made me cry like a baby and are part of my most vivid childhood memories. Negative memories. I always said that taking care of a vomiting child should be a prerequisite for teenagers and young 20 year olds. I swear it would be the best birth control/abstinence method than any lecture.

9. I love my sleep. I think this drives Wade crazy because he can operate on so few hours and still be amazingly productive. He always says, "you're going to bed already?!?!?", but I love to curl up in bed with my book before going to sleep. Heaven.

10. I enjoy being by myself. Not always, of course, but after having kids that are so time consuming and....well, chatty, it's kind of nice to just be able to sit there with my little old self and just be quiet. Ahhh....you all should try it some time.

11. I don't like noisy things. Concerts, fireworks, guns shooting, exhaust backfire, busy restaurants (ha!!), balloons popping, dogs barking, etc. God, I am a pain in the ass!

12. I like lots of lights on while I'm awake. Some can vouch that I am really bad about turning lights out after leaving a room, but it's because I like the lights on when I come back to that room. Wade turns the lights off to take and shower and shave. What's that about? I have to be able to see what I am eating, reading, writing, watching etc. Makes sense to me.

13. I am vehemently opposed to my kids sleeping in my bed. I'm sure this has something to do with #9 because I would imagine kicking legs and swinging arms would disrupt my beauty sleep. No, but really, I think it has more to do with the fact that I am with my kids all day (for the most part) and it's only reasonable for us to have our personal space.

14. I am selfish. After re-reading this post, it is now more clear than ever how selfish I am! Wow, who knew this would be an exercise in personal reflection!!!

Hope everyone had a wonderfully non-soggy Memorial weekend!!!!

MeMeMeMeMe

2007-05-22T20:39:00.000-05:00

I've been blogging for about a year now and just got tagged! Twice! On the same day! I feel so special. But this is kinda hard. Brooke and Ashli both got me so I'll start with 7 now and do 7 more on the next post. Enjoy!

1. I DO NOT like to clean. This may not come as a shock to most of you. But I believe it is an important part of who I am, so I thought that I just had to share it. My mom was a clean freak and always cleaned up after me, so my theory is that I never learned how to. My poor kids have no chance in this area as well. I really try but we all know it's about the role-model . Just prayin' they make enough money for a housekeeper!

2. I absolutely worship reality t.v. Don't know really know what I did with myself before it. It all started with Big Brother 1 in September '00 and I've been hooked ever since.

3. My husband and I are complete opposites. No really. I like to plan;he plans nothing. I like 3 square meals; he eats random meals throughout the day and night. I discipline; he doesn't. I'm a freak about time; his sense of time is whacked out. The list goes on and on. Pop culture tries to tell you that the old adage "opposites attract" is for the birds and that couples need to be more alike than not, blah blah. I'm here to tell you how untrue that is for us! So there!

4. I hate dining al fresca. I swear food tastes different outside. And different being worse.

5. I loathe flies. I am more freaked out by them than bees, wasps etc. Ever since the movie "The Fly" I have been forever changed. This is the main reason I hate eating outside (see above).

6. My husband does 75% of my clothes shopping for me. And no, it's not cause he has to pick out what is proper for me. He likes it and is quite good at it. Most people think that is strange, but it's kinda like Christmas several times a year!

7. I have never broken a bone and have only been in the hospital 2 times for 2 births! I like to think it's because of my incredible coordination (and good luck, of course).

More to follow...

2007-05-19T12:34:00.000-05:00

Please look at our new backyard! It looks like paradise, no? Wade decided to use this fake wood stuff that looks amazing. It doesn't rot, fade or warp. It needs no maintenance (which, as you all know, is good for us). We got some new plants from Calvert's, some new patio furniture and ba-da-bing, instant paradise!!!!

Here are the girls eating breakfast al fresca. It was around 65 degrees with no bugs this morning. Pretty good for Oklahoma! Lovin' it while it lasts.

Wade finally made good on his word to get a new backyard play-thing for the girls. Has anyone really tried to put one of these things together? Caesar and his crew got to work on it Friday and it literally took 4 of them ALL DAY to do it. But, of course the girls love it. Good times ahead (that is, before it becomes 104 degrees)!

I'm old

2007-05-17T07:11:00.000-05:00

Tuesday night was Wade's brother's graduation from McGuinness High School. Oh, you know I was reminiscing like crazy. I can remember my graduation in that very auditorium 15 years ago. How can this be? The school looks completely different and amazing on the interior after the remodel. During the ceremony the principal was giving his speech (he was the track coach when I was there!) and he was talking about the students and broke down which kids came from where. 1/4 of them were from various Catholic schools and only 9 of the kids were from Westminster. 9!! Where the hell did all the kids from there go? I mean, I know where they probably went, but I still find this perplexing. At least half, if not more, went to McGuinness when I was at Westminster. Anyway, I will know stop thinking about my kids being of High School age and get back to the mundane life of toddler-dome.
This is what Matt looked like when Wade and I started dating:

And this is what he looked like when Grace was born (yes, that is Grace looking like a little troll).

So, try as I might, I can't really ignore the fact that High School is really not that far in the distant future!!! Awww!!!!!!!!!!

Mother's Day...again...

2007-05-11T13:01:00.000-05:00

Dear Mom,
The truth of the matter is that life is a bit easier since my last Mother's Day post. I didn't think it was possible during the time of writing that post. Don't get me wrong, I have my moments, like these Mother's Day moments where I just want to stay in bed with the covers over my head. But somehow, I pick my ass up and keep moving. Soooo much has changed since then. Grace is now 6 and will be repeating Kindergarten. Those damn Montessori teachers don't think she is "getting the big picture" of life. Can you even imagine that? Oh, okay, fine, she may have inherited a little flightiness from her mother,er,grandmother. Just sayin'. Needless to say, she's still a little sweetie, with her personal moments of bitchiness, but oh so helpful and sweet to her sister. She has turned into quite the little sport as well, playing basketball and soccer for her school team. She was able to pick up the basics pretty well and got pretty good on the last game. Go figure. Her personal favorite happens to be your personal favorite as well: Ballet. Her recital on a big stage is next week and it's going to be unforgettable. Wish you could sit next to me. I always wish you could sit next to me for all these important and special moments. I'm bound and determined for her to not forget you, mom. I'm doing my best.
Sydney is full of piss and vinegar. This is the one that made me dust off all the discipline books. She is sooo different from Grace, sometimes in good ways, some in not-so-good ways. The good ways: she is very perceptive of her surroundings and LOVES to see lots of people. Just today at church she ran into the parish hall to find Daddy Dad shouting and smiling, "daddy dad, daddy dad, daddy dad." No doubt she would have done that to you as well. The not-so-good ways include tantrums, shouting, hard to calm moments etc. Our little crusher.
Wade is going through momentary craziness at this point in his life. I'm slightly waiting for him to crack from the amount of pressure he puts on himself. The girls worship him and I still have to get on him for spoiling them too much. You know, same old stuff. He's doing his best.
Bubby is still doing well, although he did start smoking again. For shame! He and Wally seem genuinely happy together and it is so nice to witness this.
Daddy Dad. I don't even know where to begin. Let's put it this way: he is definitely following in grandad's footsteps. I'm holding my breath waiting for the marital announcement. You'd be shocked at the number of your friends that are perfectly o.k. with him doing this. Shocked. Bubby and I have got your back. Her fanny (or belongings) will be no where near that house if I have anything to do with it. Kay? That's really all I have to say about that except that my heart does breaks for you a little bit.
And me. You know how I'm doing cause I feel you with me all the time and am so thankful for that. (Just in case you didn't notice: I quit smoking!! Yay!!! You would be so proud!).
Love you til I see you,
Ginny

reason #8437 why parenting should require a license

2007-04-20T21:16:00.000-05:00

Today we had our dear friend Anna over for a little trampoline-jumping. You may remember that Grace and Anna have been through quite a lot of mischievous business since becoming friends. They chopped their hair off (Grace's looked better, sorry Ash), they killed zillions of fish and well, that may be all, but really they are pretty sneaky. We have to check on them quite often. So that brings me to today. I heard giggling and such while they were sitting on the couch RIGHT IN FRONT OF ME. I look over (in between bon bons) and see that they are looking through a rather large book that Wade had placed on the coffee table. Me being me, I had never seen the book, didn't know what it was about, but did assume that it was some kind of artsy thing. I hear them giggling and saying "boobies" etc. I go over and look at the book (obviously a bit too quickly) and seeing something about "50 years" and "cartoons". So I tell Ashli, "oh, it's some book about cartoons, it's all good." The girls continue on with their boobie banter to which I tell Ashli, "oh let's just ignore them, they are trying to get us to react". God, I really am an idiot. I walk back over to them and their book and I then see this:

To which I yell, grab the book and look at the pictures, to which I see this:
Oops.

"no, mine"

2007-04-19T14:16:00.000-05:00

Yes, it's true. She had to say it sometime. It's just so very rude and ugly to the ear. The funny thing is that she only says it to Curly. Like 2o times already this morning. He walks in the room and you hear, "no! mine!". And we all know Curly. He gets his feelings hurt real bad, hangs his head down and leaves the room. Sydney then looks rather smug and continues on with the playing. With Grace's toy, no less.

Ah, the good 'ole days...

Friends, no more.

quick recap

2007-04-12T14:03:00.000-05:00

The following is basically what has been going on with us for the last couple of months. I finally got all the 8 jillion parts to the camera working and am able to post some pics. So here is the recap, in a nutshell.

My new haircut. Okay, it's really not new anymore, but I forgot to post about it. I mostly like it, but sometimes when I look in the mirror I think it looks like a bad 80's hair band do. Seriously. It's kinda straw-like sometimes.

Sydney's new obsession. Occasionally I want to throw that gd car in the big blue trash can because she wants someone (me) to bend over and push her whilst breaking their back. Enough already. While terribly annoying it is also cute because right before she gets in it she says, "bye mama" and blows me kisses. All growed up and driving herself right on oughta here. The only Easter pic I got of the both of them. Nice and clear, don't you think. God, I am such an outstanding mom, no?

The impostor on Easter. I mean really, a dress just doesn't suit her. Lipstick lezzy she will not be.

And of course, the ultimate life-changing birthday gift, the trampoline. I could really care less how dangerous these suckers are. They are a mom's most precious gift while fixing dinner. LOVE IT!

And lastly, I can't forget to mention that Sydney finally got her spitznevus removed from her face and she looks SO much better. Just scroll on up to the pics above if you haven't seen her in person yet. She's a lil trooper!

Peace out, people!

the #6

2007-03-31T13:25:00.000-05:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GRACE!!!!!!!!!! Can't believe it's been six (long!but enjoyable!) years! Good God, that doesn't seems right. We had the party at Pump It Up and the girls had so much fun, although I have so many problems/issues with that place. I won't get into them here, but MY GOD, those pump it up owners are raking it in! They have the lowest overhead, only hiring highschool age kids to run the damn thing. Anywho, it was better than I thought it would be with very little tears shed by anyone. Syd was awesome, basically roaming around by herself, having her own little pump it up party. Here is a picture of her towards the end looking a bit forlorn. Cutie!!

So,yes, I am still a non-smoker although Friday night was sooo hard. My friend Meredith is in town from San Diego and we went out with an old highschool buddy (Jeff for Jenn and Maja, if you are reading!) and we had a blast. Of course, Meredith and Jeff got a couple drinks in them and they were all, "LET'S SMOKE JUST LIKE OLD TIMES!" I'm all, "NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO, I just quit and I hate you people!!" So, I kindly refused and watched them gloriously smoke their cigarettes. It was tough, but after I got home I was so happy I didn't break down cause, seriously, I would have been so pissed at myself. I also used Leslie's "cognitive therapy" to help me (Thanks, Leslie). But we had so much fun reminiscing about old times and then comparing that to our lives now. So different. I mean those are the kind of conversations that really make you feel old. And grown up. How does that happen?

believe it or don't

2007-03-22T06:50:00.000-05:00

I am officially smoke-free and it's the craziest thing I've ever experienced. Let me just start by saying that some people don't believe in hypnosis because they think it's some kind of voodoo bullshit. It's not. It's an alternate state of relaxation where your nervous system basically goes to sleep while your conscious mind remains awake, eyes closed and very relaxed, but still awake. It is in that state that your mind it open to suggestions, hence, the suggestion that smoking is for the birds. It was creepy people. I'm not going to go into the hypnosis part itself cause it's too long and boring, but I will say that I remember ever single word that was said and for much of the time kept thinking, "is this really gonna work cause he's just telling me to not smoke and, c'mon, who hasn't told me that?" But, I'll be damned. I officially haven't smoked for almost 48 hours. and that shit is crazy. Aside from the pregnancies, I can't remember when I went 2 days( much less 2 hours!)

So, what do I feel like, you say? I actually feel the same as before only I have no desire to smoke. I don't have that, "i'm gonna fucking rip my hair out if I don't smoke" feeling. Most of my fleeting thoughts are of thinking I need to smoke, but then are corrected by "the new me." For example, Wade called me Tuesday afternoon and said, "I'll pick the kids up around 6 and get ice cream." My instant fleeting thought was, "Oh good, I can smoke." And then I remembered that I don't smoke anymore. This scenario has happened about 100 times since I quit. I got rid of the desire, now it's up to me to kick the actual habit part. And it's oh so hard, but sooooooo much easier at the same time. I can totally see how my day was centered and surrounded by smoking just from the fleeting thoughts. I have all the confidence in myself to stay quit and I feel like each day that goes by the thoughts of smoking will fade (like a puff of smoke...sorry, couldn't help myself).

This is the chant he told me while under hypnosis and I keep saying it to myself.
"I am now a non-smoker and will be a non-smoker for the rest of my life"...a bit cheesy, but WHO CARES he somehow tricked my mind into believing it. Give it up for me, people!!!!!!!!!!

The Love Affair

2007-03-18T12:10:00.000-05:00

Before I begin, I just wanted to say that, yes, I am still alive and that I am sorry for not posting, but we have had numerous computer/camera issues that have left met with little motivation. So on to more pressing issues...

For those of you who know me well, know that I have been battling my addiction to nicotine for all of my adult life. I guess battling is not the correct term to use because that would involve fighting against it and that is something I haven't done. In the 17!! years that I have smoked I have only quit three times. Two of those were when the little girls were in utero and the other time was when Wade made me quit on Grace's first birthday. I lasted 5 months, which is pretty damn good, considering. I quit cold turkey and had the worst, most depressing 5 months. I felt deprived and resentful the entire time. I was just never able to consider myself a non-smoker. It defined me. It was my one and only coping mechanism, which I believe is why I couldn't stay a non-smoker after the pregnancies. I just loved it, LOVE it, and the possibility of doing without made me sick with fear.

So, my friends, the time has finally come. I have come to a point in my life where it is not as enjoyable for me. I finally hate the way it smells, hate the way my life and day is run by my need to smoke. I seriously feel like a crackhead. I have a cigarette and within 10 minutes am wondering when I will get my next "fix". It's pathetic and ridiculous, but mostly just flat out selfish. I have 2 beautiful daughters that, more than likely, don't want to have to take care of their lung cancer-ridden mother during the last few years of her life. I now know, unfortunately, what it's like to lose a mother. Why would I willingly do that to them? Pure selfishness.

Tuesday, March 20, 2007 is my quit day. I have an appointment for hypnosis which you can read about here. I am sooo excited to finally be free!!

Friday Randomness

2007-02-23T19:32:00.000-06:00

when I see a title such as mine I usually get a little annoyed. It's a way to basically say, "I have nothing exciting to say today" Boo on me, it's just that I couldn't think of any exciting title. You know, cause all my titles are so witty. Wow. Babbling.
Anywho... Sydney has a double ear infection. They thought she had pneumonia, but after the laborious task of holding her down on the x-ray machine (after verifying that I am NOT pregnant or breastfeeding) alas, she does not. But I'm really excited cause they gave her that coveted antibiotic shot that cuts the amount of medication to give by about 10 days. Oh yeah, baby. She, however, was not happy about it and proceeded to limp the rest of the morning. Not kidding, it was so cute if not a little sad. We got home and within thirty minutes was saying, "Nigh, nigh". And you know, I can't deny the child the proper rest! She promptly slept for three hours. Yeah, baby.

Grace lost her third tooth and requested, per Ashli, one dollar and one shiny penny. So, $1.01 is exactly what the tooth fairy left. By 7:15a.m. the penny and dollar were on the floor, never to be looked at again. So, the dollar went straight into my pocket and the penny straight to the trash. God, I hate those things.

Completely off the subject...Britney Spears. Now I know this has been talked about ad naseum. But I have to say...I feel kinda sorry for her. Is everyone yelling at me right now? I mean really, her life is totally effed up right now (or forever, depending on how you look at it). She can't go to the gd gas station without millions of flashbulbs and people screaming at her. Seriously. Go check out some of the videos on youtube.com. It's whack. And I know her life has been a series of poor decisions, but my God, not every human is blessed with good decision making skills. That shit is learned, people. Maybe it's because she has two small children or maybe it's because she actually seems like kind of a nice and funny person (barring the last year of interviews), but this story just doesn't sit well with me. I'm rooting for her. I mean I just don't have the same sort of sympathy for the Nicole Richie's and the Lindsey Lohan's. Call me crazy.

And on a final note, I am sooooo excited about my friend, Meredith, visiting in three weeks. I haven't seen her baby since she was 2 months old (she's 9 months now). Apparantly, she has quite the little temper. That should be fun watching she and Sydney have dueling tantrums. Can't.Wait.

weirdo

2007-02-18T12:47:00.000-06:00

I was reading one of my favo blogs, Cheeky Lotus, and came across her most recent post about how her daughter, who is also 5, does weird things. I read a lot of her comments (she had about a million) and thought some of them were really funny. I started thinking about Grace and some of the, cough, less than normal things that she does.

When I am putting Sydney to bed she pretends that she can't touch the rug so she expertly places objects through the room to jump on ie books, blankets, stuffed animals etc. It is so weird. She does this whole act without involving me and takes it very seriously. Throughout the rest of the entire day, she walks in and out of there with no hesitation or props. Bizarro.
When she colors and cuts she hides behind this one specific chair until her work is complete.
While playing in the bath she always pretends that she is Santa's brother and wants me to ask "where is Santa?" and then she goes into this whole diatribe about how Santa is dead and No I cannot speak with him. Hmm. Weird.

Ok, now this is interactive people. Let me hear some of the weird things your kids are doing. I know Ashli can take the cake on this one (hello, grandpa vacuum guy?).

365 days

2007-01-22T19:42:00.000-06:00

*I started this post around the actual anniversary, but it has taken me some time to peice this together.

I cannot believe it has been one year. It freaks me out because it flew by and trickled by all at the same time. I had really great intentions for writing another letter to my mom, but at this moment I just don't have it in me. When I think about all the things I want to say to my mom I get overwhelmed. I know everyone knows how hard and sad it is, but it's those little, everyday things that really get me. I think about how much she would have LOVED Sydney. When Grace was her age she was much more serious and wary of people, even my own parents. We had just moved back from Chicago and Grace wasn't that warm or affectionate with them. Sydney would have been quite the opposite just judging by how personable she is, especially with my dad. My mom would have dug that.

This is what Sydney looked like the last time my mom saw her:

And Grace:

Weird, huh. I feel like my life has changed so much, mostly for the better. I got my new job which, as everyone knows, I LURVE! But there is still a feeling that sweeps over me every great once in a while that makes me feel that life is oh so unfair. Telling my dad the funny stuff that Sydney does just isn't cutting it. My mom would have appreciated all that funny stuff, so, unfortunately, I have to bore my husband and friends with all her quirks. Sorry about that folks.

And I ask my dad questions that my mom would have known the answers to that my dad has no fucking clue. It bugs me to no end.
me:"Did mom fix us dinner EVERY single night?"
dad: "yea, I think she did"
me: "well, I know I was picky, did she fix me something different than the rest of the family?"
dad: "no, I think you ate what everyone ate, like pork chops."
me: "I didn't like meat when I was little, dad. I'm pretty sure I didn't like pork chops."
dad: "oh, well, then I don't know."

Argggggg....that shit really bothers me. My mom had a memory bank like a steel trap. She never forgot anything (unless it happened yesterday, but I'm talkin' long term memory here:))

But I am super thankful that Grace hasn't forgotten her. The other day I tested her memory by asking her what Cici looked like. She replied, "she wore glasses, she had those scratches on her face (wrinkles, so cute), and.....(thinking hard here)...she always wore lipstick!"

Damn straight.

Little mizz sassy

2007-01-20T19:24:00.000-06:00

In general Grace is pretty good. Pretty even-tempered and reasonable. Not lately. She has really started to get sooo sassy. Not only is it trying my patience it's making me ANGRY! I know I have told some of you the story about how she got really mad at me for not getting her an icee, throwing a monumental fit and then rushing inside to then LOCK ME OUT OF THE HOUSE. Well, sort of. She locked the screen door while I was carrying a bagillion grocery bags. Whoa. I was beyond steamed. She got a 5 minute time out and a serious explanation about safety. Now, here is my problem. Is there a better discipline method for 5 year olds? She only gets really mad when we tell her "no" or "not right now". I have told her thousands of times that she does not always get what she wants, I try to remain calm etc etc. I think I may not be being consistent. Tonight I had a little talk with her that we have a new house rule: no more sassy talk and if she continues she will be sitting in time out. It's just so hard because after her little outbursts she feels really bad and shows extreme remorse. Until the next time she doesn't get her way. I know she's just plain spoiled, bottom line. This frustrates me because I don't always let her have her way, but she seems so damn bratty!!!!!! I guess we'll just have to see how the house rule goes...

this is what mamma gets for farming her kid out for the day

2007-01-16T19:34:00.000-06:00

No, she didn't get beat, although she does look like it, straight with the pathetic face and all. This was the result of a bodacious sledding accident. Now I know, in the grand scheme of things, it's not that bad, but, OHMYGOD, I got a small taste of the nauseating feeling a parent goes through when there little baby gets hurt. Seriously, it made me kinda ill. I have to say I am really proud of her though. According to the friend who took her, this occurred on the second "run" and after calming her down (which I'm sure was no small feat) she didn't want to go home and went on to sled for 2 more hours. She was smart enough not to get back on the torpedo and waited for a suitable replacement (ie a jankety-ass plastic thing) that apparently went a lot slower. Wow... I guess I better think about all possible consequences next time...oops.

the hair

2007-01-13T12:46:00.000-06:00

ok, so the hair. On our 2nd to last day Wade had the idea to take her to this frilly, silly place in the mall called libby lu's. Not surprisingly, this place is pretty popular in Texas. You get to pick between several different hairdo's and then get your nails done, makeup etc. Every little girls dream. So Grace picked the "princess" up-do. Watching these women do this made me tired. She had to have used an entire can of aerosol hairspray and at least 60 bobby pins to bring this thing to fruition. And here was the finished product:

Never mind that she looks like a pedophile pin-up, look at the intricacy and detail! Of course, she loved it. Not my style, but whatevs. We got to the Museum of Natural History and she says, "mommy, why is everyone looking at me?" ps- she always thinks people are looking at her, the narcissist that she is- and I say, "it's probably your beeeuuutiful hair." To which she begins taking it out. Oh I begged and pleaded for her to stop, but she had her mind set on it. We went to the bathroom where it took me 10 minutes to remove the hairspray laden pins and it looked like a freakin disaster. Sticking up every which way. Thankfully I talked her into putting it into a ponytail in order to tame the beast. Kids. Why do they have to make everything so damn difficult.

Onto a completely different topic. The roach display. Seriously. why? Name one important reason or benefit for this thing to be on our planet. And they are feeding them! Look in the cage! Those things need to spend some quality time at my house. We could kill them in 2.2 days flat. Just like our hermit crabs (don't worry ladies, I threw the crab carcasses away this time). Alls I gots to say is EWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

2007-01-10T20:24:00.000-06:00

I'm not even gonna apologize for the lengthy delay...just gonna say HAPPY NEW YEAR and here's to 2007 being a hell of a lot better than 2006.
Rubbing the buddha belly for good luck...

So what the hell have I been doing, you say? Life at the Starr's has been hectic while the days without school have seemed long overall Christmas/New Years break flew by. We went to Houston for a mini-vacation after the new year and while it was fun, unfortunately, I was sick the entire 4 day trip. I had a bitch of a cold where I couldn't breath, or taste, or want to taste. So that sucked. I ate less on that trip than I have in weeks. Which, while thinking about it, was probably a good thing. The final day ended with me waking up with a little stomach virus (read: diarrhea) and nausea. That was very uncool. We did do some really fun things though. The Children's Museum was awesome. They had a little "tot spot" for the under 2's and it was incredible. Sydney loved it! We also went to the Butterfly rainforest at the Natural History Museum and that was also unbelievable. Imagine a really big, warm, beautiful place with millions of butterflies flying around landing on all the little kids. SO fun. There was one pesky blue, very large, butterfly that wouldn't leave Sydney alone. He kept dive bombing her and she was literally trying to run away from it, to no avail. We also went to the Galleria, which is by far the largest mall I've ever laid eyes on. Wade and Grace went ice skating while Sydney and I roamed around. So, here are the pics...
A little shaky at first, but was skating like a pro within the hour!

The infamous "tot spot" where Sydney kicked ass and took names...

Grace and her butterfly, so very proud (I'll explain her hair on the next post!).

Christmas 2006

2006-12-29T20:56:00.000-06:00

Well, all, Christmas went off without a hitch. Wade was able to take massive amounts of time off the few days before Christmas which was such an immense help. I was able to wrap gifts, cook and get several much needed breaks throughout the days. Ahhh, it was nice. Christmas was hard, but not as hard as I thought it would be. The day was rather long especially since Sydney likes to take only about an hour nap, BOO!!!!!!!!! She's at that age where she wants EVERYTHING especially if Grace is holding it and then proceeds to throw a fit if she doesn't get right that very second. It gets a bit tedious...

The gifts were flowing at our house as usual. Santa decided that Grace had been a very good girl this year and proceeded to makeover the backhouse into her very own playroom (thanks, Brian!). This pic really doesn't do it justice, but it looks so darling. There is a blackboard wall, table and chairs, easel, and tons of art supplies. Anyway, Grace was stunned and thrilled. It was fun.

She also got roller skates and a new robe (just like Mama's!).

Even Sydney got into the holiday spirit and opened a couple presents. Whenever she saw the gift, she would get really excited and say, "AHHHHHH". It was highly entertaining.

This last picture I just had to put up here because it was the first time she ever wore a skirt. It looks slightly awkward because she so boyish in her appearance.
Hey, we don't call her crusher for nothing.

random pics

2006-12-23T15:26:00.000-06:00

Not a lot going on over here minus our small bout with the stomach virus...just found some cute pics and wanted to share.
The first pic is an obvious one and Sydney's first time on Santa's lap (she was asleep in her stroller last year). Excited aren't they?

the next pic is the little chubby ball in the bathtub

splits!!!!!!!!!

Grace was one of five little ducks during her kindergarten play...doesn't she look soooo cute (and young!)

trimming the tree with the girlies! In reality the tree had been decorated for weeks but don't they look cute!
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

What amazing ladies!

2006-12-16T11:03:00.000-06:00

Remember this post. Well, Camille and Ashli took it upon themselves to make me pot roast and dessert. I was so pleasantly surprised to come home after a hairy basketball practice and find a crock pot of delectable pot roast simmering in my kitchen. I'll tell you what it was dellllicious! And so thoughtful! Thank you ladies. Everybody lapped up the food and ate the pudding/chocolate/graham cracker dessert straight from the fridge...mmmmmm, goodness. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

(...I was just fondly remembering my mother's homemade monkey bread...just kidding, Camille!!!!!!!!!!!!!)

Love you guys!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

woe is me...

2006-12-13T21:15:00.000-06:00

So, lately I have had the pleasure of assisting in the representation of juveniles that have the shittiest parents on earth. I simply do not understand the reasoning behind bringing into the world a child or children and deciding to do everything in your power to make sure that have no chance in hell of growing up to be a decent person. Wow. Now that was a run on sentence. There are two twin boys in particular that I have developed a bond with. They are locked up for an assault and battery(unrelated to said shitty dad) and I firmly believe that their actions were the result of self-defense. Oh I know all you naysayers out there (cough,bubby, cough, Wade, cough) think I am a naive bleeding heart that would believe anything told to me. Not true I say. I did my homework. I read the police reports, spoke with the kids, spoke with the dad! etc etc. Now I am not going to get into particulars here for various reasons but while speaking with the kids (age 14) they discussed with me the fact that there dad is a raging alcoholic (he really doesn't drink that much just EVERY DAY ALL DAY) and that yea, he used to beat them to a bloody pulp around the age of 5 on (no but really he loves us and is SUCH a good dad). This is the kind of deluded thinking I am dealing with here. After I lifted my chin off of the table I attempted to discuss ways in which they could begin to turn there life around. Mind you I do believe this can happen but I can't help but worry (and worry I will!) that these darling boys are eternally screwed. This is there only role model. Mom relinquished parental rights at their very unimportant age of 3 because she was/is addicted to meth (but it's just a "small drug problem"). I want to cry, I want to open my home and wallet to help. I know I cannot and will not do this but REALLY is anyone surprised that these boys have selected this path of self-destruction and poor choices.

So fast forward to this afternoon in the car with Grace. She was asking me if I ever dream about her and I replied, "Oh yes all the time." She says, "well what do I do in your dream" to which I reply, "Oh, your a good girl..." She says, "wouldn't that be funny if in your dream I was being a bad girl," and I say, "well, if you were being a bad girl I guess I would have to spank your bottom in my dream," to which she throws her head back and laughs uncontrollably for a good 2 minutes, "you are the funniest mom in the whole world!" Funny because this child has never been spanked in her entire life for anything. For me, spanking simply takes care of the parents immediate anger and I don't see how the child can learn the consequence from the mistake, instead, I believe, they then fear the spank and lose sight of the original or subsequent problem. Make sense? Anywho, this is not a debate or discussion about spanking, it is about an important and heartbreaking fact that these boys would never, will never, find what my darling daughter thought was so funny about that dream.

Sigh.....

sad, sad, loathing, loathing

2006-12-12T19:24:00.000-06:00

Once again I am apologizing for the tardiness of my newest post. Okay, the title isn't allll true. We're pretty crazy in the Starr family. Wade is working an ungodly amount this month and I feel so sorry for him because he comes home and literally lays on the couch without uttering a word. I think his mouth hurts from talking so damn much and his legs hurt from running around that damn gigantic restaurant. Anyway. The holiday season is shaping up as expected with me continuing to run across things that my mom gave me last Christmas and me seeing things that she would have loved. Arggggg, it sucks. I found several pictures of myself with Sydney when she was about 3 months old that my mom had taken. I can remember exactly what we were doing. I was laying on her bed laughing while she took some darling shots of us. I look at myself in those pictures and I can't help but think I look so different. I hadn't yet been subjected to the fact that I would never see her again or hear her voice or eat her pot roast. It's just a really strange feeling that's hard to describe.

I have hesitated to write about this, but those of you who know me well already know this and that is the fact that my dad has a girlfriend. It's just soooo strange. Part of me thinks it helps him get through this time but another part of me thinks he is a selfish asshole that can't even give my mom the decency of one year to wait to fill up his social calendar with another ~~hussy~~ women. And the last part is definitely true. He goes out with her in some capacity every night. I simply cannot wrap my brain around this. And, yes, I know, men can't do anything without a woman taking care of him, or so everyone has told me. I find it absolutely asinine that we women can excuse and justify men's behavior on a daily basis. Blah! Anywho...all I really care about is not hearing anything about wedding bells, I think that would kill me. Dead. Dunzo. Gone. My brother assures me that this will not happen so I guess I'll hold him to that! If he's wrong he can help Wade lift my lifeless body from the couch...

There's no I in Team

2006-12-04T19:21:00.000-06:00

Grace had her first basketball game on Saturday after 2 practices about 2 weeks ago. Oh yea, we were in for a comedy of errors! In kindergarten basketball they don't have to dribble just take turns "guarding" and "shooting". Unfortunately, she didn't make a goal, but boy did she certainly act in typical Grace fashion. This first two pictures are of her "guarding". Notice how she's really into the game at this point. Atta girl!

The next picture you can tell she's getting a little more aggressive, actually lunging for the ball. If you notice, none of the other kids are even moving a body part, but, hell who cares! she got the ball! WooHoo!

And typically, here is what Sydney did during the big game:

Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm , two fisted, no less!

Things I hate about snow

2006-12-01T12:48:00.000-06:00

Let me start off by saying that I am really not that negative (I'm sure the hubby would disagree) but there are certain things that just piss me off during this kind of weather.
1.) No school. Ok, this is a no brainer here. Our kids get serious cabin fever and if you have a 5 year old like mine (which no one does) this gives her unlimited time for "let's pretend" type games. I absolutely loathe these kind of games. Here is an example of this type of fun.
"Mom, I'm gonna be this really pretty barbie and you can be the really ugly one."
"Grace! She's not really ugly (as far as I know they haven't made the pig-face looking barbie yet)."
"OK! let's pretend that your barbie won't clean her room and the daddy gets really mad at her and she gets in a lot of trouble and then my barbie cleans her room spic-and-span (actual words here) and the daddy lets her have ice cream."
So, you see where this is going, my barbie is the stupid, shitty one and hers is the angel. Weird, I know. No, but really, private schools should NEVER be closed in my opinion. We pay enough GD money to make our own informed decision as to when it is safe to drive our adorable tots (2 freaking blocks) to school. You're not comfortable driving, good, you choose not to send your kids. Period.
2.) The fucking weathermen. Ok, seriously, do we have to watch the same shit over and over and over and over and NOT broadcast the Today Show. Really. We know. It's cold, it's icy and no one should drive. And just in case we don't get it, the wonderful ticker on the top telling us that EVERYLIVINGTHINGINTHESTATEOFOKLAHOMAISCLOSED!!!!!!!! No shit. It's the first storm of the season, everything is closed at least one day.
3.) Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

Here's to cabin fever, people!

I'm Baaaaackkkkk!

2006-11-25T19:32:00.000-06:00

Sorry people!! We have been without a computer for over a week now and finally bought a new laptop! It's been killing me! I haven't looked at a computer in over a week and now that I have access to one I'm too overwhelmed to check all the blogs!!

Anyway, Las Vegas was fabu! I swear Wade had to drag me out of there kicking and screaming on Sunday. My personal heaven is Vegas. I love the whole vibe of that city, not to mention the food and gambling, my 2 favorite past times. wow, simply spectacular fun.

Wade always has his eyes out for me for movie stars anywhere we go and, sure enough, as I was playing some cards I hear Wade yelling at me from another table, "Ginny, there's your guys." I look up thinking, HUH?? and sure enough there was Carlos and Mike from desperate housewives. Exciting, no?

I have so much going on at work, but I'll save that for another post. I'll just leave you with a couple pics from the trip.! Missed y'all!!

Here is Wade's best friend from Altus, Jeremy, who was recently dumped by his wife of 6 years. ouch.

And here we are at MIX at Mandalay Bay. Probably the coolest looking restaurant/bar I've personally ever witnessed. Aren't we precious?!? Yea, you know I'm showing a little cleavage in Vegas...

Happy Birthday to me!

2006-11-14T10:23:00.000-06:00

I am really not one to get all into the birthday cheer, but thanks to my 5 year old (and my 36 year old) there's no getting around it. Grace reminded me at least 6 days prior to the big day that "3 more days..." etc. All that to say, my darling hubby has far exceeded expectations again. We've got the big trip to Vegas this weekend (sooooooo excited I can barely stand it!!!!!!!!!!) but also an ungodly amount of gifts. He thrives on this and now he's got the little one in on it too. I can already see that he is making Grace into the gift giving fool that he is. She made me a total of 12 drawings and helped him pick everything out. Yesterday (my actual birthday) right before her ballet performance she was "sharing" with the group. Mind you she stated this in front of the entire group of parents, "Grace what would you like to share today?" "Today is my mom's birthday and I picked her out a lacy bra and panties for her!" THANKS!! However, the point not to be lost is that I really do need these things and Grace knew that, hence, she picked them out all by herself. The whole gift was entirely her idea. And this is where I get happy. My husband has this uncanny ability to pick out gifts for people that they will love and need. He seems to be passing this ability on to Grace. So proud! because if you think about this, that ability is pretty rare. I know it is impossible for me; I'll think about what to get someone (including my husband) for hours!!! And then Wade will think of something and it will be PERFECT AND WHY DIDN"T I THINK OF THAT!!
Anywho, the birthday celebration was fabulous if not slightly bittersweet. It was the first time in 33 years that my mom didn't tell me "happy birthday" and, you know, that was tough. I better just get used to it, cause we've got Thanksgiving and Christmas coming up. Whew. Where is that hole I can crawl into.

Thank you Wade!and Grace! for always knowing just what I need. XOXOX

Just so long as Grace doesn't teach her to be a smart ass

2006-11-11T11:06:00.000-06:00

I figured you people were having some Sydney withdrawls, so I am here to present to you the many unique qualities of my child (I am well aware that most of you are now rolling your eyes). I really just can't control myself. Not to mention lil miss Grace is going through some very terrible behavior issues at this time, so I think I'll still to lil miss thang for the time being. So here she is in all her glory:

Here she is placing beads on the little pegboard:

Here she is reading her book while lounging on the floor chair:

Here's a video of her using a fork:

Photo Sharing - Upload Video - Video Sharing - Share PhotosHere is a video of her coloring:

Photo Sharing - Upload Video - Video Sharing - Share PhotosHere is a video of her continuing to piss her mom off:

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All this and STILL no walking!!!

she's still got it...

2006-11-06T20:17:00.000-06:00

Unfortunately Sydney had other things in mind this morning when we took her for surgery.

Yeah. 101 fever. So, no surgery. Dr. K said the risk for pneumonia was too great since she was running the fever. Obviously I was grateful for this for many reasons. 1) clearly we wouldn't want her leaving the office sicker than when she went in and 2)I didn't have to deal with the entire event. I have to admit that I was kinda relieved. I worried about her all weekend and this put us home by 7:30.

Whew. I called her in an antibiotic to clear up the probable ear infection and we will try again another time. I really want to put the whole damn thing off for awhile because, you know, I saw this as a sign.

So, we'll see.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BUBBY!!!! (I won't tell his age...let's just say he's 7 years older than me and I'm about to turn 33...hmmmmmmmmmm)

LOVE YOU!!!!!

Gotta love Halloween

2006-11-04T10:20:00.000-06:00

Halloween 2006 was a fantastic success. Grace wants me to dress up every year with her, so we decided to both be Wonder woman:

Wow, I'm looking mighty scary! More like Wonder Woman in drag!

Anywho, it was fun. Wade and the two Chris'(his brother) took the big girls while Ashli and I handed out candy. Gotta say I was glad we didn't have to brave the cold, but, damn, if we didn't have hundreds of dressed up (and dressed down) goons. We didn't even have time to perch our lazy asses on the chair. Here are some more pics of the festivities:

And this is where my job starts to suck...

2006-11-02T09:16:00.000-06:00

Ok, I'm kidding about it sucking, I still LOVE it, but yesterday I had to talk to a 16 year old boy who had beat his 33 day old baby so hard it landed her in ICU for many weeks. To the point where the doctors thought she wouldn't make it. Yeah. Nice. The most unbelievable part was the fact that he is absolutely denying it claiming that it had to be his mother. All the evidence points to him (you know, his confession to the cops) and the fact that there is no way she could have done this to herself (his initial response). It is just so f*cking sad, people! I talked to him for about an hour yesterday and he is one of this people that has absolutely NO remorse whatsoever and all he cares about is getting out of detention (he's been in there 99 days). I tried everything to get him to take responsibility for this, but it was like talking to Ted Bundy. Cold, callous and downright scary.

His court date was yesterday to determine what the judge was going to do with him. He already plead guilty about a month ago, but claims it was only to get a lighter sentence. He wanted to be put on probation and released to his grandmother (who is a complete f*cking idiot) and then get treatment in the community. He was SO POSITIVE that the judge was going to let him go home even after I repeatedly told him that I felt he was being overly optimistic. He didn't believe me. Unfortunately for him, the judge placed him in the custody of Oklahoma Juvenile Affairs where he will remain in custody at an inpatient treatment center until he is 20. He was not a happy camper. Me on the other hand, a little happy. And no I don't think this kind of a thing makes me unable to do my job properly. I am simply there to get information and then discuss it with the lawyer. I don't have to stand up and defend him. Thank God for that.

Oh and by the way, his baby is in foster care now and the state is attempting to terminate his parental rights in April. Heavy shit.

Under the Knife...

2006-10-31T14:43:00.000-06:00

For all you out-of-towners, Sydney will finally be getting that gargantuan thing of her left cheek! We took her to the Dermatologist and he said it was a Spitznuvess...that's just an ugly name for a juvenile benign melanoma. Of course the thing can't just be frozen off, Sydney has to get all high falutant on us and have the operation performed on her by a plastic surgeon (wow, she's starting early!). So our adorable little one has to be put under anesthesia and have the damn thing surgically removed. And, yes, it HAS to be removed because of the rapid growth of the little bugger the chances are good that it could turn malignant. Waaa...sniffling...I'm sure I'll be a wreck on Monday. The doctor assures us that they will take the utmost care of her and the entire thing will only take 30 minutes. She'll have 4 stitches that I have to guard with my life or she'll have to have her arms taped down so she doesn't mess with it and increase the chances of an ugly scar...I swear I will check myself into a mental hospital if that has to happen. Can you imagine how PISSED she will be? Wow. The stitches will come out 4 days later and she will have a permanent scar. He said that by the time she is a teenager it will barely be visible based on the placement (it's in that little curvy part next to the nose). Sad. I know. So everybody, and I mean everybody, needs to be thinking about the little toot on Nov. 6 at 7:45am. Kay?
Here is the last look of the spitznuvess :

On a lighter note, we went to her 15 month check-up today and all systems are a go. She is 22 lbs. (yes, that's it) and 29 inches. 50 percentile for both. I swear she looks so much chubbier than that. Anyway, she was way in the mood to impress and was showing Dr. Julie her entire repertoire of animals, singing and such. Dr. Julie looked at her standing and said that she's fine, just choosing not to walk. So, there's that. No need to worry.

Happy Halloween people!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Captured: One Very Drunk, Bald Hispanic Man

2006-10-29T09:19:00.000-06:00

So everyone knows what a freak I am about daylight savings. Kids went to bed late in hopes that they would sleep late. So, thanks to my annoying cold, I started coughing around 5:15 (really 6:15 to me). Sadly, it wakes Wade up who then realizes that he is starving and heads downstairs for a little snack. Not 5 minutes later he is back upstairs turning on all the lights,
"There's somebody in our backyard and he's trying to break in!"
"Well, call the cops!"
"I am!" (he then proceeds to get his gun from the top shelf of the closet)

Panic ensues as he calls 911 and is telling the dispatcher the details. We are both sitting on the stairs at this point when we hear the crazy bastard trying to OPEN OUR SIDE DOOR! which is locked, no thanks to me. Wade: "You guys better hurry he's trying to get in and I've got a gun." Me: "Wade, go put the gun up, we're not shooting anybody!" At which point the man takes off (I'm assuming here because we heard the patio door slam REAL LOUD).

A few minutes later the cops show up (you all know this is my favorite part) and I then spy on them from the upstairs bathroom window. They've got guns drawn and are all over our backyard, backhouse and side porch. Once it was established that the guy was indeed gone, he knocks on the front door REAL LOUD. Thankfully Wade put the gun up and we then go outside and Wade begins telling him that he actually saw the guy (which I didn't know at this time) and said he was a light-skinned black or hispanic guy, bald with a coat on. I have to say I was pretty impressed seeing that all this happened so fast and is was very dark still. So the cop said, "do you think you could identify him because we have someone in custody." Wade, of course said that he could and here comes another cop car with the guy inside. I then turned to Wade and said, "now really look at him and don't just say yes." So, the guy gets out of the car and it was almost comical because he was a bald (well, almost, he has like a very short haircut), hispanic and a blue coat on. Wade goes, "well, I'm not sure now, thanks Ginny" Oops. I kinda psyched him out by telling him to be sure.

ok. So it's about 6am at this point and I head back upstairs. It turns out that Wade had called our security guys before 911 who zoomed over here before the cops had shown up and actually saw the guy walking down our driveway, croutch between the neighbors car and then begin walking down the street. The security guy says, "can I help you?" to which the guy ignores and keeps walking (or staggering based on his level of drunkeness). The security guy decided to follow him because he looked suspicious and then flagged the cop down.

Bingo, bango. Perp in custody.

Why he was trying to come into our house is beyond me...maybe the couch looked cozy:)

Now, onto the most amazing part about this whole story...both kids slept til 7. Whoda thunk it!

Grace-isms Part I

2006-10-23T19:37:00.000-05:00

I know I have been writing a lot about the ever-changing, always-darling Sydney. Today I thought I would hit ya with some funny Grace-isms that she's let out lately.

1. After getting some dessert from Deep Fork with her friend Anna she says, "Triple Score!!!!!!!!!!!"
2. She asked me if (her uncle) Matt was a teenager. I said yes to which she replied, "why is he so nice then?" Good point.
3. When something potentially bad happens she lets out, "SNAP!" Really don't know where she got that one because the only person I know that says that on a regular basis is Ashli's husband, Chris.
4.She says "Garvage" for "Garbage" and "velt" for "belt".
5. When I told her Sydney would be getting her "mole" removed she asked, "will it come right back when she looks at daddy dad?" (my dad has a mole in the same spot as Sydney)
6. She brought up the fact that she wants a brother (ha!ha!)to which I replied, "Oh I really don't want to do that again, Grace." She then reminded me, "yea, that would mean your stomach would have to get all filled up with air again and you would be HUGE like last time!!"
7. And the #1 funniest thing she has said to date. We were talking to our nanny, Raye, the other day and she asked if she could move in with us. Raye said, "But Grace, where would I sleep?" to which Grace replied, " I know, you could sleep on top of my daddy!" I shit you not, she said that. Raye and I looked at each other and started rolling. To which Grace got angry and huffed off for laughing at her. Some laughs I can stifle, but that was not one of them!

There are plenty more that I'll post at a later date!

Goodbye USPO...forever!!

2006-10-17T19:24:00.000-05:00

Why is it everytime I go to the post office there is a line a freakin' mile long? I swear to the heavens. I went in there to put some stamps on my envelopes to mail to the IRS and I stood in line for 15 minutes. in the same spot. without moving. I finally had to leave after making not one tiny step forward.

It's like the postal workers don't even notice that there are 25 people in line, 5 of them ladies over the age of 90. They just continue to talk to each other like they're on their lunch break. One woman had the nerve to actually go in the back and put the packages in the correct spot. Now, I'm all for putting the shit in the right spot, but, for God's sake, just put it on that little ledge behind you until the line dies down. And then there was the guy who hogged one postal worker for the entire 15 minutes that I was there. Oh, boy, they were having a gay old time just chatting about how much this versus that would cost and while you're at it, how much would this be? It was ridiculous.

And it happens EVERY time I step foot in there. I just slapped a whole bunch of stamps on the damn envelopes and flew to pick Grace up at school. I'm officially done!!!!!!!!!

Please humor me

2006-10-14T21:50:00.000-05:00

I know, it seems that I only post things about Sydney on this blog. But really, she's the one going through all the damn changes and doing the super-cute-baby-things. Everyone that knows me, knows that I also talk about Grace (although lately she has been more of a thorn in my side!). Next post will definitely be dedicated to her. But, for now, here is that little crazy girl doing what she does best!

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Baby Got Back

2006-10-13T09:43:00.000-05:00

Look at that bootie! Why is it that my children have such full figured bottoms. I mean mine isn't petite by any stretch of the imagination, but my God, those kids have got some junk in the trunk!

to all my peeps

2006-10-06T14:14:00.000-05:00

Dear Internet friends!
This is Sydney here, and I just wanted to let everyone know that they can just stop worrying about me RIGHT NOW! I here you people talking about me (right in front of me no less!) And I just want to set the record straight: I'm a lazy ass! and simply am not walking because...I don't want to! I can crawl faster than I can walk and, frankly, think it's kinda funny to worry my mom. I stand up, she asks me to walk to her and I simply sit down. Now that's comedy. I'm leaving you with this little video of me taken by my mommy (God, her voice is annoying!) just to prove to you all that I can put weight (heavy as it is) on my cankles/feet. Enjoy!

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Love,

AKA the wimpy warrior AKA the crusher AKA the biatch

Life Changing

2006-09-29T19:25:00.000-05:00

I ran across this poem/story on another blog that I randomly read. Often times I think about how much my life has changed since having children, but it's always more than I can explain. This is the first thing I've read about motherhood where I actually thought, "YES OH MY GOD YES THIS IS WHAT I"M TALKING ABOUT!!!!!!!!" Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

We are sitting at lunch one day when my daughter casually mentions that she and her husband are thinking of starting a family.
"You think I should have a baby?"
"It will change your life," I say, carefully keeping my tone neutral.
"I know," she says, "no more sleeping in on weekends, no more spontaneous vacations..."

But that is not what I meant at all. I look at my daughter, trying to decide what to tell her. I want her to know what she will never learn in childbirth classes. Want to tell her that the physical wounds of child bearing will heal, but becoming a mother will leave her with an emotional wound so profound that she will forever be vulnerable. I consider warning her that she will never again read a newspaper without asking, "What if that had been MY child?" That every plane crash, every house fire will haunt her. That when she sees pictures of starving children, she will wonder if anything could be worse than watching your child die.

I look at her carefully manicured nails and stylish suit and think that no matter how sophisticated she is, becoming a mother will reduce her to the primitive level of a mama bear protecting her cub. That an urgent call of "Mom!" will cause her to drop a soufflé or her best crystal without a moment's hesitation. I feel that I should warn her that no matter how many years she has invested in her career, she will be professionally derailed by motherhood. She might arrange for childcare, but one day she will be going into an important business meeting and she will think of her baby's sweet smell. She will have to use every ounce of discipline to keep from running home, just to make sure her baby is all right.

I want my daughter to know that every day decisions will no longer be routine. That a five year old boy's desire to go to the men's room rather than the women's at McDonald's will become a major dilemma. Right there, in the midst of clattering trays and screaming children, issues of independence and gender identity will be weighed against the prospect that a child molester may be lurking in that restroom. However decisive she may be at the office, she will second-guess herself constantly as a mother.

Looking at my attractive daughter, I want to assure her that eventually she will shed the pounds of pregnancy, but she will never feel the same about herself. That her life, now so important, will be of less value to her once she has a child. That she would give it all up in moment to save her offspring, but will also begin to hope for more years - not to accomplish her own dreams, but to watch her child accomplish hers.

I want her to know that a cesarean scar or shiny stretch marks will become badges of honor. My daughter's relationship with her husband will change, but not in the way she thinks. I wish she could understand how much more you can love a man who is careful to powder the baby's bottom or who never hesitates to play with his child. I think she should know that she will fall in love with him again for reasons she would now find very unromantic.

I wish my daughter could sense the bond she will feel with women throughout history who have tried to stop war, prejudice and drunk driving in defense of children. I hope she will understand why I can think rationally about most issues, but become temporarily insane when I discuss the threat of nuclear war to my children's future. I want to describe to my daughter the exhilaration of seeing your child learn to ride a bike. I want to capture for her the belly laugh of a baby who is touching the soft fur of a dog or cat for the first time. I want her to taste the joy that is so real it actually hurts.

My daughter's quizzical look makes me realize that tears have formed in my eyes.
"You'll never regret it," I finally say.
Then I reached across the table, squeezed my daughter's hand and offered a silent prayer for her, and for me, and for all the mere mortal women who stumble their way into this most wonderful of callings. This blessed gift ... that of being a Mother.

Single Parenthood

2006-09-24T19:21:00.000-05:00

I swear to God, some days I know exactly how it feels to be a single parent and...IT SUCKS!! Wade is working soooo much lately and this was the second Sunday where he has been gone all day and night. I took Sydney to church after the service (Grace went with my godparents) to see the unveiling of our new Sunday School area and by the time we walked and walked and walked to see the new rooms my arm felt like it was going to fall off. It really was getting numb. You simply take for granted the, "here you go, honey" factor. There was NOONE to give her to and I couldn't put her down for a good 20 minutes. By the time we got to the car I wanted to close my eyes and the whole thing took just under an hour. Whew. The day was so damn long. Now I know some of you reading this are probably cursing and telling me to cry a f*cking river, but unless you have a spouse that is gone more than he is there, you have to feel the tiniest bit sorry for me. Sure, there are perks to be married to my husband. He is an incredible person. Very sweet, loving and (of course) hardworking. He brings me food home on a regular basis and has never said one negative thing about my lack of homemade food. And when I do cook he acts like it should be on the Deep Fork menu. So really, this is less about him as a person and more about how sucky it is to be the wife of an overacheiving maniac! So really, is there really any wonder why my kids go to bed so damn early?

2006-09-20T20:25:00.000-05:00

Sorry it has taken me so long to put up a new post, but my week has been sooooo busy. As most of you know I started work this week. WEEEEEEE!! I was very worried last week just because I wasn't really sure exactly what I would be doing and then add to that my fear that I was doing the wrong thing (you know, the mommy guilt). But now that I have worked 2 days, my fears are all but gone. I LOOOVVVVEEE IT! I know, I'm weird, I'm making less per hour than my "nanny". Please don't do the math, it's embarrassing. But the work itself is exactly what I had hoped. My official title that I wear on the badge around my neck is "forensic interviewer" which I thought sounded pretty cool and also slightly intimidating because I've never actually been trained in interviewing, per se (although I've done more of it than almost anything). So anyway, blah, blah, blah...What I am doing specifically is working with the public defenders interviewing their clients and their parents before their preliminary hearing. I try to get as much information about them as to aid in their defense. Get it? Any-the-who the work is soooo interesting and frustrating all at the same time. Most of the kids I am working with are in the juvenile detention, which is basically kiddie jail, but once I am in the courtroom the lawyer puts me to work, meeting with the kids and their family members. Plus, I spend 90% of my day in court, which everyone knows is my FAVORITE thing.
Sigh.
I'm so tired though. The work is intense and by the time I get home my legs feel like they are going to fall off my body. Hopefully I'll get used to that soon. You will not find me complaining however. It's so refreshing to think that I am actually putting to good use my training and education! FINALLY! Okay, enough about all that!

The girls are fantastic and as far as I can tell haven't been affected by the slight change in the routine. Although, my first day of work Sydney kept saying, "BYE" to me at least 30 minutes before I left. True, it could be her crazy psychic ability, but I really think it's because I was dressed with shoes on as opposed to my robe and slippers. She's a weird one though. Oh, and she's on a break from that walking thing. Who-da-thought. Two steps and she's done. Grace is also doing well although she did get put in time out at ballet the other day for laughing. I'm sure it won't be the last time as I remember continually getting in trouble at school for too much talking AND my mom used to as well. She really doesn't stand a chance.

Have a great week.
I'm praying for you Merle.

The Leash

2006-09-15T14:58:00.000-05:00

I know other people that I read have posted about this topic before, but I just have to add my two cents. The other day Sydney and I were at Gymboree for a little fun and afterwards were headed to City Bites for a little lunch and along the way we encountered a mom and her two kids. The little girl was about 3 and the little boy was 5. For some ungodly reason the little boy was forced to wear a leash. Now, when I first saw them, my immediate response was horror. And then, trying to be a better person, thought to myself, "who knows, maybe the little guy is a holy terror and had done something horrible in the past which would warrant a human leash." So, we happened to be heading in the same direction and I just listened. The little girl was running around like a bat out of hell with the mother continuously trying to reign her back to them. The little boy kept asking his mom, "WHHHYYY DO I HAVE TO WEAR THIS" and "MOMMMMMY LET ME GET OFFFFFFF." The mom continued to say (loudly), "No, so-and-so this is a far as you can go." Hmm. Perplexing. We all reached City Bites together and at this point was feeling really sorry for the little guy. He was obviously embarrassed (rightly so) and really didn't seem to be that wild and crazy. So I took the opportunity to ask his mom a few questions while we were all standing in line. "how old is he?" "He's 5." "Must have made you run after him a few times (laughing)." "No, I just don't trust him." "Oh." Are you kidding me? That was not the response I was expecting. It was so vague and almost paranoid that I couldn't even think of a comeback for that one.
What do you guys think? Isn't that peculiar? I mean I can almost understand the damn thing if they were walking up May Avenue, but Northpark Mall?!? It's the least busy mall and really, what could he have done? Stolen jewels from B.C. Clark?

One Giant Step for Mankind...

2006-09-11T19:35:00.000-05:00

O.K.,it may not be that big of a deal, but the big girl actually took one step. And then sat down. It was last Saturday and Ashli witnessed it as well. It was such a teensy step that I had to ask her if it counted and if I should put it in the baby book. Of course I'm going to! Anyway, I got her to take 2 steps today at ballet so yay!!! for Sydney. She's actually contemplating the idea of joining the human race and walking on her hind legs!
Not a whole lot more to report except that my once obnoxious baby has turned back into the lovable creature that I used to know and adore. She has stopped screaming irrationally and crying unexpectedly and is a whole lot more fun than the past couple of weeks so yay!!! for Sydney.
Sure wish I could post some new and adorable pics of my little ballerina and my little walker (ha!) but I'm still waiting for the thingy to arrive in the mail, so until then...AufWiedersehen!