Countdown!

Tomorrow is the first day of December. Let the countdown to Christmas begin! I always get so excited and then as the month goes on and I get panicked because I have to get organized and wrap everything.

Then last year I added to the craziness by making an advent activity calendar for Daniel. I'm excited to do it again this year, but I know about halfway through last year I was wearing out! Most of the activities are simple, but some are more time consuming (ie: decorating Christmas cookies). I kept some favorites from last year and then added in some new ones as well. Hopefully Daniel enjoys them. James will get to participate sometimes, but really at this point it's all for Daniel still. Along with the fun things, I also included some services/acts of kindness cards like last year. Those are always some of my favorites!

My darn strings kept falling as I was hanging the mittens, because why wouldn't they? It's my luck. Those suckers are taped hardcore to the wall now, but 10 bucks says tomorrow I'll find them on the floor. At least they're cute for now.

November flew by, and I don't see December slowing down any. In just one month we'll be ringing in another New Year. So, here's to a happy, healthy and fun last month of the year!

It's Officially Christmas Season!

I always sit down to blog and get sidetracked. Next thing I know it's almost 11:00 and I've clicked on a 100 different links looking at things and "pinning" projects I'll probably never do!

Yesterday I got Christmas put up! The only happy thing about taking down my fall decor is putting up the Christmas stuff. It makes me happy inside!I was just going to start slow and see how far I got. I got the tree up while Daniel was at preschool. Once again I will say just how much I love prelit trees. Especially our's! It took me less than 5 minutes to assemble, and then another 5-10 minutes of "fluffing" it. James was ecstatic. He saw me carrying pieces of it up the stairs and started yelling, "Kissmas tree!"

At lunch time while the boys ate, I brought decorations upstairs and get most of my stuff out. I saved the ornaments for nap time and let Daniel help me decorate the tree. I had to move a few things around because I'd go crazy with his placement, but he really did a good job helping me for the most part.

My biggest fear was James and the tree. I remember being nervous with Daniel at that age too, but last night he only took ornaments off a couple of times and I don't think he even touched an ornament today! We kept firmly telling him not to touch it last night and just to look. He really loves finding the Hawkeye ornaments. (Makes my heart happy!)





Today was a stay home day. I had planned to take the boys to story time, but decided to forgo it when James woke up dripping snot all over the place. Both boys have a cold. I'm sure just as soon as theirs end, I will get it. Seems that's how it always works.

We just hung out this morning and relaxed. I did a few things around the house and got a shower in. I was happy to find the tree still standing when I was finished.

Once I put James down for his nap, Daniel and I played his Lion Guard memory game until it was time for him to go rest.

Tonight I gave both boys their baths and then we just hung out until bedtime. Daniel kept coming in and out of his room tonight. Not sure why he was having a hard time falling asleep, but he eventually did.

Now, I'd better head to bed because I'm sure James will wake up crying at some point or Daniel will come in and hover over me while I sleep until I wake up and freak out because there's a person just standing there. Here's hoping to a good night of sleep!

Gilmore Girls: A Blog In the Life

Yeah. I missed another night of blogging. I was up late working on other things, and by the time I was done, I was way too tired to write.

This post will be boring if you don't watch Gilmore Girls and contains all the spoilers, so proceed with caution, and feel free to leave your comments on the revival.

I, like any other life long fan for Gilmore Girls have been giddy since they announced the 4 extended episode revival earlier in the year. I was able to watch it with my mom and Kendra over the weekend during the boys' naps and after they went to bed.

I normally wouldn't write about a show, but for serious...this revival messed me up. Like, my brain hasn't stopped thinking about it. Mostly because it did not end like I wanted it to. I hated the final four words. I was mad. Mom and Kendra were mad. We had to sit there and debrief for awhile afterward.

Now that I've had a couple of days to think and process, I have opinions and thoughts. I do plan to go back and rewatch them now that I know what to expect. Maybe I won't be as rage filled.

I enjoyed Winter and Spring. Summer sucked. Fall was meh, then yay, then meh again (Final 4 words).

But, first off let's start with the town and the people.

Being back in Stars Hollow felt like coming home!It's still the same amazing Stars Hollow we all know and love. The gazebo. Luke's Diner, The Dragonfly. Lorelai's house! My heart may have overflowed with joy when they showed the house. They made sure to keep all of the amazing details that made us fall in love with this fictional town. Except the pool. Since when does Stars Hollow have a pool? And since when to Lorelai and Rory even go to the pool? (While we're on it...I want that bag Lorelai had that said, "Totes Ya'll")

The musical in Summer? Don't even get me started. Where the writers high when they wrote this in? It would have been better if they only showed about 5 minutes of it rather than 20 minutes or longer! Musicals and shows never go well. Gah. For real. I get ragey just thinking about it.

I was amazed at how many original cast members came back, right down to very minor roles! I think the only 2 people I wished we had gotten to actually see were Liz and TJ (but you know...they were off joining vegetable cults.)

Kirk is still Kirk and is amazing at it. The whole "OOO-ber"  thing was cracking me up. And his short film. Oh Kirk. So awful, yet so so funny! When the pig got hit by the car and you saw an arm throwing a hubcap into the road had me dying!

Michele. Oh how I love him. He really had some of the funniest lines and I was dying with laughter.

Sookie. I'm so bummed we didn't get more of her. I know it had to do with Melissa being busy with other things, but I hate that she was only there for one scene. She must've had a cold too, because she didn't even sound like Sookie. Plus, I don't think she would have left the inn for 2 years, (And seriously? Rachael Ray in the kitchen? Come on!)

It was fun to see Lane and Zach, but we never got to see the twins. And then we saw HIM. Who? Mr. Kim! He really exists!

Paris! Oh how I love her. She was one of the best parts. From her job, to Alumni Day at Chilton. Her kicking the bathroom door had me rolling! I'm just sad she and Doyle split up.

Not to mention all of the other smaller role characters. They sneaked in some  Parenthood cameos (and Bunheads, but I never watched that one).

I loved a lot of Emily, but not all of her. I thought they did a good job paying tribute to Edward Herrmann (Richard). Watching her as she had to work through the grief process, go forward alone and find her new self. I loved the giant portrait scene and the scene where she's getting rid of everything she owns because it doesn't bring her joy! Plus, Kirk came to dinner at the Gilmore residence!

Watching her finally find a maid she liked (who, by the way was Gypsie in a horrible wig!) and accepting her and her family was fun to see.

I didn't like seeing her with another man. But, that's life. Just strange to see her with anyone but Richard.

Watching her flip out at the DAR meeting was a little funny, and at the same time cringe worthy.
I think because the show aired on a more wholesome network, and with Netflix they had more choices. Listening to her rant would have been funnier to me if they had kept it more true to the show and left out the swearing and vulgarity. It was also sad to see her sell that house, but it's all part of moving on. She even has a job now!

Luke is still amazing. He's funny, caring, charming and has loved Lorelai through it all. And let's take a moment to be amused by the fact that the only friend he has in Keifer Sutherland. Haha!

Now to our girls.

I was rather disappointed in both of them. In 9 years they haven't changed, In some ways that's good, but they're both immature and selfish.

Lorelai held off all of these years marrying Luke. She has called all of the shots. Emily was totally right when she yelled at her and called her out on all of that.

It made me mad she didn't want Rory to write her book.

And the hike. Oh, that stupid hike. The hike that wasted so much time, and she never even ended up hiking. (You need a permit for that!). Why on God's green earth did she have to leave home, travel to California, and leave Luke panicking that she was going to leave him, when she could've gone on a nature walk closer to home and found herself there.

Her call to Emily redeemed it for me though. I did tear up listening to her story of her 13th birthday. And I'm glad she went home and decided the marriage was in the cards.

I had mixed feelings on the wedding itself. Let's just start off by saying, "LUKE AND LORELAI ARE FINALLY MARRIED!" I am so happy they finally did it. I loved how Kirk decorated. Except for that random door and pink tissue paper like stuff they ran through to get to the Gazebo. What in the crap was that?! I was so perturbed by that, that I missed the fact that they played the song they first danced to! I wish we would have seen the other ceremony though. That town and us deserve to see the wedding of the decade. And they got married in the best season, during the Fall Festival. Come on now! Give the people what they want!

I pretty much hated Rory's whole story line.

She has no job and no money and apparently no underwear...yet she's walking around with 3 cell phones and flies to London at the drop of a hat. But, we know where that money probably came from.

Logan. Barf. I cringed when I saw him. I cringed even more when I realized they were together. Then I found out he was engaged and she was his girl on the side. Logan I can see stooping that low still, but Rory!? No. She's 32. She felt so bad when she slept with Dean so many years ago after he was married. Now she's out having a fling with an engaged man, and she has a (forgettable) boyfriend back at home. Not to mention, she slept with a Wookie! This is not how Rory should have been portrayed.

I thought it was boring watching her interview at that blog place. I enjoyed seeing her take over the newspaper in Stars Hollow. And then Jess walked in, Be still my heart. He pulled her out of her slump and told her to write a book. Oh Jess, how I love thee.

Then they brought back The Life and Death Brigade. I know a lot of people loved that, but I always hated it. A bunch of stuck up, immature rich people. Ugh. And of course Logan came back and they all took Rory out on the town.

Then before the wedding we see Jess again. Rory runs out to tell him she's been writing her book. He tells Luke he's long over her, but then we see him look through the window and look at Rory with love in his eyes, and you know he still loves her. Cue my melting heart.

Then we get to the end. Those final words are coming. I'm thinking it'll be something about how they'll always be Gilmore strong or something about how she's in love with Jess. But no. We get...

"Mom?"
"Yeah?"
"I'm pregnant."

Fade to black.

Jaw hits the floor. WHAT. THE.??? NOOOOO! I hate you Amy! Why are you doing this to us!?

What I've come to grips with is that even though this baby has to be Logan's, he will be her Christopher. Jess is her Luke. One day they'll realize it and live happily ever after.

Team Jess forever!

Oops

Well, I made it 24 days and then I forgot to blog yesterday! I actually remembered as I was going to bed, but bed trumps blogging.

We've had a nice lazy weekend in Iowa. Yesterday we celebrated the boys' birthdays...which was over in .5 seconds, but they seemed to love their presents.

Grandma got to come over, so she was able to see the boys open gifts and then we had Thanksgiving, which was all really tasty! Mom makes a turkey and also chicken. I'm kinda over turkey, so I enjoyed the chicken. Love me some mashed potatoes and gravy and deviled eggs too. Yum! Then of course my favorite, dutch apple pie.

In the afternoon Kendra did a scavenger hunt with Daniel. She hid clues and he had to find them, It led him to a ginger bread house that he and Aunt Nens got to decorate together. He really had a good time doing that!

Mom, Kendra and I were able to get in 2 of the 4 Gilmore Girl episodes and I've avoided spoilers until just a bit ago when a Facebook friend posted what happened right in a status. Sigh. Well, I'm still excited to watch more during nap time and after the kiddos go to bed tonight. It's nice getting to watch with Mom and Kendra since we used to watch it together all the time.

Today we're just hanging out. Mr. D is getting a cold, which seems to happen almost every time we come! Just hanging out the rest of the day. Pizza for supper tonight and then laundry and packing to head home tomorrow.

Happy (Un)Thanksgiving!

Traditions have changed over the years. Since the year Daniel was born I don't think we've celebrated Thanksgiving on Thanksgiving. That first year, we were still in the hospital. They had turkey on the menu, but I ordered pot roast and mashed potatoes. It was delicious. In all honesty, I could take or leave turkey anyway.

This year we could have celebrated today, but Grandma gets to come over tomorrow, so we held off, which is fine with me! We'll also get to celebrate the boys' birthdays. Plus, Gilmore Girls is released tomorrow!

Today was just a normal day around here. The boys had fun playing with Mimi, Pa and Aunt Nens. Kendra and I went to Kohl's and Target tonight. Apparently this is becoming a new tradition for us. This year we were home almost an hour and a half earlier than last year, and I got what I went for at Kohl's, so I was happy.

Sometimes I think it's cheesy to list off all of the things that we're thankful for because a lot of times it's always the same answers, but then I realized that I really am thankful for those things!

Some of the things I am thankful for this year are:

*God's gift of salvation. His eternal love for me. His grace and his new mercies every morning.

*My family. All family. Near and far!

*Friendships old and new.

* A roof over my head...even when I feel like the whole house is falling apart, I am grateful that we have a place to live.

*Chocolate, because what kind of life would this be without chocolate?

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

Birthday and Iowa

That moment you realize that you haven't blogged today, because you've been busy traveling, and you really don't WANT to write because it's 9:00 and you're trying to watch This Is Us from last night.
But...you haven't missed a day all month, so alas, here you sit.

Started the day by singing Happy Birthday to my 5 year old boy! I even let him have a cupcake for breakfast and put a number 5 candle in it, because those number candles are serious business. All he did was lick the frosting off, but it's his birthday. Cake is always okay for breakfast on your birthday! (Or frosting).

He got to take his cupcakes to preschool, and it sounds like he had a fun morning. He got a special birthday hat, and got to sit in the special birthday chair. He also got a Pete the Cat book from his teachers. His teacher even did the Thanksgiving celebration on Monday because she wanted him to get to have a special day for his birthday! I LOVE both of his teachers and his preschool so much. They make each of the kids feel so special!

While he was a school, I was at home with James running around with my head cut off packing. Okay, not really, but I was all over the place grabbing things to pack and doing some laundry. I got everything done, and was even able to take all of my fall decorations down and put them in the basement, so when we come home the house will be ready to decorate for Christmas!

We ate lunch, and after Jacob got home we headed for Iowa. It was a rainy and dreary ride. My van made an awful whining sound the whole way. Last time I took it in they couldn't get it to make the noise. Ugh. But, we made it!

The boys were happy to be free and had a couple of hours to play with Mimi and Pa before bed!

Now it's time to get back to my show. Well...after mom comes back out. Somehow the boys and dad cracked a lightbulb earlier and when dad was getting ready for bed the bulb shattered all over his bedroom.

A Letter For Your 5th Birthday

Dear Daniel,

Tomorrow you turn 5 years old! I can't believe how fast the years seem to be flying by. You are no longer my baby, as you like to remind me of frequently.

5 years ago on this night, I was so nervous and so excited. You are my first born, so even though I read the books, I was still terrified of labor. I couldn't wait to meet the little peanut who had spent the past 9 months ninja kicking me and pressing on my bladder.

Labor wasn't bad at all. Of course, I did have an epidural, so that helped...once it finally worked. It only took 2.5 tries!

You came into the world at 5:46pm. 8 pounds, 4oz and 21.5 inches long. As soon as they laid you on my chest, I cried happy tears. You were here! You had made me a mommy. My heart was so filled with love for you. They let me hold you the whole time they worked on me and then took you to weigh and measure you. Then they gave you a bath, which you hated every second of! I spent many hours awake with you that night and for the next 16 months. Even though I was exhausted, all of those late night nursing and snuggle sessions were well worth it.

Now, here we are. You're a "big kid" now. You have grown SO much over this past year. Emotionally AND phsicially. You grew 3 inches since your last birthday!

This is your 2nd year in preschool and you absolutely love going, which makes it so easy to drop you off in the morning. Soon, we'll be getting you ready for kindergarten. I think you're ready. Mommy will probably cry though.

You've learned to use your words more instead of getting violent. Sure, you still get mad sometimes. We all do. But, you've learned to express more of your feelings.

You are stubborn! You don't like to admit when you're wrong, But, I think if you try, you can turn that stubbornness into something positive.

You are a wonderful big brother to James. He just turned 2 a few weeks ago, but you still make sure people know that he is your "baby" brother. You've taught him so many things. You 2 are best buddies, and I pray that your relationship with each other will always be strong. You have a special bond with each other, and even though you make each other mad a lot, you also help each other and gives sweet hugs and kisses.

You are thoughtful and kind (when you want to be!). I've watched as you have helped others in the store. When someone drops something, you run to pick it up for them. You like to hold doors open for people. You always share my favorite flavor of whatever candy you're eating. You will pray for me when I am not feeling well or am in pain. And sometimes you just snuggle up to me for a few minutes and it makes my heart swell with happiness and love.

You are so smart. You excel in doing math, That makes me so happy that you love it, because it's always been a struggle for me. You can add, subtract and even do some multiplying and dividing. Last night you showed me what was left in your yogurt cup and informed me that there was only 1/4 left. Seriously, how do you know fractions!? You're a sponge who soaks up any form of knowledge. I've actually learned things from YOU! And I'm guessing over the years you'll teach me even more.

Some of your favorite things are: The Lion Guard, playing games, making crafts, playing games on the Kindle/iPad, math and Cheetos.

I can't wait to see what adventures this next year brings you.

I love you much!,

Love, Mommy

ABC's in Pictures From This Year!

So, this took way longer than I thought, but that's what happens when you take a billion pictures and then try to find just one to go with each letter of the alphabet.

2016 ABC Style

A is for Aunt Rachel



B is for Brothers



C is for Cousins



D is for Dairy Farm



E is for Easter



F is for Family



G is for Great Mimi



H is for Hay Bale



I is for Indian Knoll Pumpkins



J is for January



K is for Kangaroo



L is for Laughter



M is for Makeover (his room..not him!)



N is for Necklace (handmade by Daniel.) Love it!



O is for Overalls



P is for Porch Swing



Q is for Quiet



R is for Rockets



S is for St. Louis



T is for Train Station



U is for Utamu



V is for Victory



W is for Wet



X is for eXhausted (yeah. I cheated)



Y is for Yummy



Z is for Zoo

ABC's of Me

I just wasted 30 minutes trying to figure out what to write tonight. I pretty much came up with nothing.

Went to church, spent time with the kiddos and got to go grocery shopping ALONE. Those are the highlights of my day. It wasn't bad by any means.

I've got a big "To Do" list for the next couple of days before we head to Iowa. I at least got a few of those things accomplished today. We'll see what I can get done tomorrow.

Until then, I'll leave you with the ABC's of Me.

A- How old are you? 32

B - Bed size: Queen

C - Chore you hate: Folding laundry

D - Dogs? Love them, but don't own them.

E - Essential start your day item?  Breakfast

F - Favorite color: Pink and Teal

G - Gold or Silver: Silver

H - Height: 5'10"

I - Instruments you played: Unless the recorder or kazoo count, then nothing.

J- Job title:  Mom, house cleaner, chauffeur, professional butt wiper.

K- Kid(s): 2 boys!

L - Living arrangements: Our house.

M -  Mom's name:  Janet

N - Nicknames: Rach, RaeLynn (only my mom calls me that)

O - Overnight hospital stay other than birth: Foot surgery, and pregnany complications.

P - PET PEEVE- Clutter, and pictures of kids not in proper car seats.

Q - Quote from a movie: There is a colonial woman on the wing. There is something they’re not telling us. She was out there churning butter. She was churning butter!

R - Right or left handed: Left!

S - Siblings: 2 sisters.

T - Time you wake up: 7:00

U - Underwear: Yup, I own some

V - Vegetable you dislike: Pretty much all of them.

W - What makes you run late: Kids

X - X-rays you've had done: teeth, feet, back

 Y - Yummy food you make:  Potato soup, fajitas

Z - Zoo favorite animal: Giraffes

Victory and Celebration!

I'll try to keep this short because it's been a busy day and I need sleep!

Jacob and I got to go to the Iowa/Illinois game today! It was freezing, but so worth it! The air temperature through the game was mid 30's but with the windchill it was between 23-27. It actually wasn't as bad as I thought it would be though. Of course, I dressed in layers.

I had on 2 pairs of socks. A pair of fleece tights, leggings and jeans. A thermal shirt, a tshirt, and a hoodie. Plus mittens, ear band and a winter coat. Even with all of that it was cold, but I've been to sporting games where it's been 100 degrees and now a game where it was 35. I would take 35 any day. I've discovered I would take winter over summer. What has happened to me!?

The game was fantastic...obviously. I mean, we won 28-0! We had amazing seats. Saw an interception by Desmond King happen right in front of us! I sat by Iowa fans who came from Cedar Rapids. Half the crowd were Iowa fans. It was awesome!



I had to stay to watch the end because I needed this victory picture!



We went back to Kent and Brenda's to celebrate Daniel's birthday which was a lot of fun. He was so excited to open presents and he seemed happy with everything that he got. He kept exclaiming, "Wow! I wanted this for Christmas!" LOL!





Daniel and Mimi share a birthday! Birthday buddies!







All in all, this was a pretty great day. I still can't believe my baby turns 5 this week!

Finally Friday

Today was so much more productive than yesterday.

It took me until almost lunch to even take a shower and get dressed yesterday.

Today, I got up and moving. James and I dropped Daniel at preschool and then headed back home and I got to work. James is pretty good at playing alone for awhile while I do stuff. I got the boy's laundry put away, and my laundry put away. Sorted through some stuff. Started getting everything packed in the diaper bag for tomorrow. Did the dishes, and then wrapped Daniel's birthday presents.  And I still had some time leftover to just chill and play with James.

Sometimes after preschool we like to just drive around. It's one of those things I've always enjoyed. My family used to call me the family dog sometimes because I love going on car rides. I seem to have passed that off on to Daniel. We drove through the park and Daniel was excited to see that they've started setting up Christmas in the Park! (They put up lights all through the park and you can drive through at night in December). Then he requested that we drive through the cemetery. It cracks me up that he loves driving through there. He likes to see all the big stones. Today he said, "Some of them have flowers because even though they're dead, people still love them." So cute.

I was kind of fascinated by some of the stones today. It just amazes me how old some of them are and how huge some of them are. Big headstones have always seemed crazy to me. It's  not like you're going to enjoy it. I get it's for family members, but just seems odd. Sure, their body is buried there, but there spirit isn't there anymore. Cremation used to freak me out, but I've come to terms with that. No burying me!

Anyway...on a less creepy note, we came home and colored and had lunch.

Tonight I went to the Holiday Open House at the Upper Cut Salon where I get my hair cut. They had food and drinks and then had local vendors selling their items. It was nice to get out kid free for an hour or so. I even got a 10 minute chair massage and had some sangria. I never drink. Not really a fan. But, it sounded good tonight, so I tried it.

Now the boys are in bed. I should be soon. Tomorrow we're dropping the boys at Mimi and Pa's and then going to the Iowa/Illinois game! First time we've gone to Memorial Stadium since 2010!  We never were able to find a good deal for us to go to our traditional Cardinals game for our anniversary, so I'm excited we get to go to a football game.

I'm not excited about the weather though. It's gonna be a cold one. I've got layers laid out for tomorrow, and I'm sure I'll drink plenty of hot chocolate!

After the game we're going back to get the boys, but we're also going to celebrate Daniel's birthday! I'm taking his presents over there as well since we'll be traveling to Iowa on his actual birthday. I think I'll still give him something to open on Wednesday too though, because who doesn't want a birthday present ON their birthday!?

Can't wait for a fun day!

Would You Rather?

 Would you rather go into the past and meet your ancestors or go into the future and meet  your great-great grandchildren?

Go into the past and meet my ancestors!

 

Would you rather have more time or more money?

If we're being honest...money.

 Would you rather have a rewind button or a pause button on your life?

A rewind button. Fix mistakes and also go back to relive the happy moments.

 Would you rather be able to talk with the animals or speak all foreign languages?

Speak all foreign languages

 Would you rather win the lottery or live twice as long?

Twice as long as what? Like if I'm gonna die tomorrow then I'd live twice as long, but if I'm gonna die at 90, I'd rather win the lottery.

 Would you feel worse if no one showed up to your wedding or to your funeral?

Uh, well at my funeral I'm dead so at that point I wouldn't even care. LOL!

 Would you rather be without internet for a week, or without your phone?

Internet...because I'd just take my phone to where there WAS internet. Boom.

 Would you rather meet George Washington, or the current President?

Washington

 Would you rather lose your vision or your hearing?

I've thought about this a lot before. I'd pick losing vision. I think I'd rather be able to hear.

 Would you rather work more hours per day, but fewer days or work fewer hours per day, but  more days?

More hours per day

 Would you rather listen to music from the 70’s or music from today?

70's

 Would you rather become someone else or just stay you?

I'd stay me

 Would you rather be Batman or Spiderman?

Spiderman

 Would you rather be stuck on a broken ski lift or in a broken elevator?

elevator

 For your birthday, would you rather receive cash or gifts?

I don't mind either, but as long as it's thoughtful, gifts for sure!

 Would you rather go to a movie or to dinner alone?

Both sound nice. A movie

 Would you rather always say everything on your mind or never speak again?

Say everything on my mind. Although, people probably wouldn't like me as much anymore.

 Would you rather make a phone call or send a text?

Text. 9 times out of 10. I only like talking to my mom on the phone.

 Would you rather read an awesome book or watch a good movie?

Read an awesome book

 Would you rather be the most popular person at work or school or the smartest?

Smartest

 Would you rather put a stop to war or end world hunger?

That's hard. World hunger

 Would you rather spend the night in a luxury hotel room or camping surrounded by beautiful  scenery?

Hotel camper right here!

 Would you rather explore space or the ocean?

The ocean

 Would you rather go deep sea diving or bungee jumping?

Deep sea diving!

 Would you rather be a kid your whole life or an adult your whole life?

A kid. For sure a kid. Even if I spent every day wishing I were a grown up. Childhood is so much easier!

Not Much

I'm too tired to write much. I went to my Bible study at church tonight, and just spent the last hour and a half getting James down (that part only took about 45 minutes). Then the rest was spent nerding out over the new car seat I got for Daniel. Although, it's complicated and I have to figure everything out. I've been sitting here watching YouTube videos. My brain isn't processing anymore though, so I'll wait until tomorrow to mess with it more and read through the manual more thoroughly. I figure, if I'm not totally confident in getting the straps right and installed correctly I'll take it to the fire station or police department. Then I have to remember how to redo the straps on Daniel's current seat to switch it back to rear facing for James. I see much sweat and frustration in my future. Mostly because my brain doesn't understand manuals, and I'm super stubborn and want to figure things out myself!

But, yes. I am a car seat nerd. And yes, my kid is turning 5 next week and will still be using a 5 pt. harness. But, it will convert to a booster, which he's excited about. Although, bummed he won't get to use it right away. Safety first!

Other than that, nothing too exciting! Daniel had preschool this morning and then we came home and played outside. This afternoon I chilled during rest time. I got to watch This is Us...and I'm telling you, if you don't watch this show you should! It's SO good. There hasn't been a lame episode yet. Then I indulged in a guilty pleasure and watched Counting On. It was Jinger's wedding, so much excitement. LOL!

Enjoyed my time at Bible Study tonight and I love the group of ladies at my table! Such wonderful women that I can learn so much from! It's my favorite night of the week!

Just Another Tuesday

Today James had his 2 year check up. I wrote about it on Facebook, but it's worth writing about again. Our time in the waiting room was actually fine, but of course, once we got into the room it got chaotic.

James wasn't impressed with the nurse and didn't want me to take his clothes off. Once he was just in his diaper though he thought it was great. You wanna know what's not that great? Trying to entertain a 5 year old and 2 year old in a tiny room with nothing to do is not fun. They were fighting over the step up to the exam table. Then they rolled around on the floor. Ew. Pushed the swivel stool all over the place. Then James pulled his sock off and threw it in the trash. A few minutes later he threw one of his shoes in the trash too.

The doctor came in 30 minutes after our scheduled time and Daniel looks right at him and says, "What took you so long?" Normally I would be embarrassed, but that was hilarious. He said what we're all thinking when we have to wait. The doctor thought it was funny anyway. I just love the honesty of kids sometimes.

James is growing right on track. I have 2 tall and skinny boys with giant heads.

We talked about his legs because he seems very bow legged and trips himself a lot. His doctor agreed he is bow legged, and he thinks it'll correct itself. Although, in 6 months if I am still concerned he will refer us to an orthopedic doctor.

Their doctor recommended flu shots for both boys. Daniel took it surprisingly well. I was rather astonished. As I was discussing it with him their doctor popped his head back it to tell me he was sorry, but he was wrong and they didn't have it available today. James slipped past him and shot off like a rocket down the hall in his diaper laughing hysterically. The doctor commented that the bow legs sure don't slow him down. No. No they do not!

After that we went to story time at the library. Most weeks is kind of chaotic, but this week there were only 5 kids! They got to play games and eat Goldfish crackers during the story. That was the quietest story time I think I've ever witnessed.

We got books and then James ran out the door as I was going to check out. I literally threw the book with bags on the counter and sprinted outside. I think the librarian thinks I'm crazy, but she was helpful!

I drove through McDonald's to get a frappe, and was super annoyed when this old guy cut in front of me after I ordered. We have the 2 lanes. I went to pull forward and he turned and looked right at me as he did it like he totally knew. But then, it popped into my head that I needed to be kind. Which then reminded me that my best friend has requested that everyone do an act of kindness for her birthday, so I asked to pay for the person behind me.

Later when I was thinking about it, I kinda chuckled to myself though, thinking, boy if that old guy hadn't cut me off, he might have had a free meal! Although him making me upset is what reminded me to do something, so who knows. But, hopefully old guy enjoyed his lunch and only cut me off by accident.

The rest of the day was just "normal". We did lunch and rest/nap. I made a really yummy roast for supper. Played cars with the boys. Did the bedtime routine. Now here I sit. And now I'm done.

Let's Get in the Christmas Spirit!

Yeah, so actually blogging every day is hard because I don't always have stuff to write about. The Christmas spirit has hit me hard. I'm thinking about putting up the tree this weekend! It seems everyone is in the mood. I've seen so many people post pictures of their trees up already. Most years I try to wait until after Thanksgiving for Christmas music, but not this year. No siree. I'm listening to it whenever the mood strikes. 

So let's do some Christmas questions, shall we?

1. Does your family send out Christmas cards? 
I usually do a photo card if I can find find a good deal. I just send them to closer friends and family.

2. How soon do you start shopping?I've been shopping for the a month now! 

3. Who do you shop for?
Mostly the boys, but also family. Jacob and I usually just do stocking stuffers for each other.
 
4. Do you put up a Christmas tree?
Yes!

5. If so, is it fake or real? 
Fake. But prelit, because ain't nobody got time to string lights on a tree. I remember watching my mom do it every year, and she'd always get so frustrated. God bless the person who came up with prelit!
 
6. Do you like tinsel?
No. It annoys me. It's just as bad as getting Easter grass everywhere.

7. Do you use homemade or store bought ornaments? 
Store bought. There are a few homemade ones though. Those are the really special ones to me.

8. Do you put Christmas lights outside your house? 
No. I'd like to, but lazy. I need one of those lights you plug in and it shines all over your house. But someone would probably steal it.

9. Do you put lights on the tree? 
Prelit, baby.

10. How about popcorn and cranberries? 
Nope

11. Is there a wreath hanging on your door? I have one made with jingle bells that I hang on the bedroom door.

12. Do you celebrate it? Celebrate what? Christmas? Of course I do, or I wouldn't be answering these questions.

13. Do you hang up your stocking? No. I used to hang them on the mantle, but then we had the boys. I haven't hit an age yet where I can safely hang them without them getting pulled down.

14. Does your family read "Twas the night before Christmas?Jacob reads it to the boys on Christmas Eve

Favorite:
 15. Christmas Movie Christmas Vacation, Home Alone and Elf (You can't make me pick just one!)


16. Character from any Christmas Movie Clark Griswold and Buddy the Elf

17. Christmas Song 
O Holy Night and All I Want for Christmas is You

18. Christmas MemoryWay too many memories! I'll just make another post on that one day.

This or That 


19. Give or Receive?
Give
 
20. Eggnog or Cider? 
Neither, but if I have to choose I'd pick cider.

21. Red or Green? Red

22. Ham or Turkey? 
Roast Beef. That's what I make on Christmas. 


23. Star or Angel? Star. But I love our tree topper.

24. White Lights or Colored Lights? Colored. White is too plain for me.

25. Blinking Lights or Still Lights
still
 
26. Were you Naughty or Nice this year?
Nice (of course!) 


27. What do you want for Christmas this year? 
Just some small things. No big ticket items this year.
 
28. When do you open your gifts?Christmas morning.

29. What's the best gift you've ever gotten? I'm not really sure. But, I'm very happy with my camera I got last year!

30. What's the worst gift you've ever gotten?
A giraffe jumper that looked like an old lady would wear. Thanks Grandma.
 
31. Who gives you the most gifts? My parents and Jacob's parents.

32. Have you ever had a secret Santa?
Yes
 
33. Do you like wrapping gifts?
HATE. IT. I suck. It always ends up looking like a 4 year old wrapped it.
 
Random 
34. Do you put change in those red buckets? I have before, but not usually

35. Do you burn a yule log?
no
 36. Can you name all the reindeer? Yes, but I'm not gonna type them all out.

37. Do you bake cookies? Yes

38. Have you ever seen your mommy kissing Santa Clause? No. LOL!

39. Have you ever gotten a kiss under the mistletoe? No

40. Do you go caroling? Nope. I have before at care centers though.

41. Do you drive around and look at the Christmas lights? Yes. Love it!

42. Have you ever left Santa cookies? Well, of course!

43. Have you ever sat on Santa's lap?Yep...and I'll ever forget the one wearing white velcro shoes.

44. Who do you celebrate Christmas with? Family


45. Where do you celebrate Christmas?
 Home 


46. Have you ever had a white Christmas? I grew up in Iowa, so of course I have!

47. What part of Christmas do you look most forward to? Um...Christmas decorations, celebrating Jesus' birth, music...pretty much everything...except that whole wrapping business.

48. Have you ever had your picture taken with Santa? Yes

49. Does your family always take a picture at Christmas? I mean, I take a lot of pictures ON Christmas, but a family one usually doesn't happen.

50. Have you ever heard the song "Thank God For Kids" by The Oakridge Boys? 
I think?

Chaos!

Whew. I'm glad this weekend is coming to an end. It's been an extra long one since Daniel didn't have preschool on Friday, and Jacob had his musical this weekend, so Daniel and James literally hadn't seen him since Thursday night because he was home late and left early.

Yesterday was probably the longest and craziest day. I had decided we were just staying home. I had things to do around the house and I just wanted to relax. I mean...I knew I wouldn't really get to relax, but a girl can dream.

By 9:30, James had already broken a lamp. Thankfully it was a super cheap lamp and the bulb didn't shatter. Just the shade busted. Knocking the lamp over was an accident, but the reason he was back by it was because he was pooping in private. It's rather amusing that kids learn to go hide.

I went to take a shower. The boys were occupied, and in general I am able to hop in for a quick shower while the boys entertain themselves. Then I'll check on them before I dry my hair. Daniel comes in and out a hundred times to give me reports on James. I was just getting ready to dry my hair when Daniel comes in to tell me that James is standing on a chair and throwing napkins and papers all over the floor.

I came out, scolded him and picked up everything from the floor. I kept telling him to get down from the chair. Finally I picked him up to lift him off the chair. Only, the chair tried to come with him. Yep. He stuck his foot through a hole in the back of the chair and got stuck. I've dealt with this before, usually with the boys getting their legs caught in the crib rails, but I've always been able to free them quickly. Well, his ankle and foot were wedged just right, and I couldn't get it. He was crying every time I tried to free him. I'm thinking, "What do I do?" I thought about calling Jacob, but what could he do? He was at school getting ready for the musical. I went to the fridge and grabbed the butter. I slather some on him and tried to free him again. Still stuck. I buttered up the chair. Still stuck. I prayed. Yep. Still stuck! I was about to either find a way to bust the chair or call the fire dept. to come help me. A little bit more butter, and some gentle pulling and twisting, and he was free! Such relief!

After all of that chaos, I was about over the day already and it was only a little after 11.

It didn't get better.

Next, there was an epic throw down because Daniel wouldn't pick up all the toys he got out. It lasted 45 minutes because I was stubborn and so was he! At one point he told me, "I'm never talking to you again!" Except, he kept talking, and at that point I was kind hoping he would've stuck to that promise for just a tiny bit longer. Haha!

Thankfully it was almost rest time, and while the rest of the day wasn't great, it wasn't as bad as the morning had gone!

Then I watched part of a Hallmark movie while flipping back and forth to the Iowa game. Eventually I was just watching the game. Oh man! That was a nail biter! The win pretty much wiped out all of the bad from the day though!

Today was SO much better. The boys and I went to church. I only did first service and skipped group. We were out of a lot of food and I really needed to shop before the boys and I were starving and cranky. I generally try to only do big grocery trips with one of the boys due to my lack of patience, but I didn't have a choice. They both did SO well, and we were there forever!

Between all of that, James passed out quickly for nap and slept 2.5 hours! Daniel rested. I put together a new lamp (lol!) and got some actual quiet time!

The boys were so excited when Jacob came home tonight. They were wild, but having fun. I took them out to look at the super moon. My bad. James LOVES the moon, but he was MAD that I brought him back inside. Sigh.

Tucked in Mr. D. Then James a bit later. When I put him in his crib he said, "Bye, Mommy!" I told him bye and , "I love you!" He goes, "I luz you, Mommy!" Best words in the world.

Q&A With Daniel

Figured I'd put a spin on my normal questions and answers, by asking Daniel to answer some. He loves when I ask him stuff, and thought it was fun that I was writing down his answers earlier.

1. If you could live in a house shaped like anything, what would it be?
A cube.
He explained that a cube is like a box and is not flat like a pancake, so we would be able to fit inside. That kid is so smart.

2. Where is the most wonderful place you've ever been?
The children's museum.
He really does love that place!

3. What are you good at?
back flips and math

The back flips have me cracking up. He then demonstrated by doing a backward somersault. Math though. Yeah. That boy can math.

4. If you were invisible for a day, what would you do?

"I would sneak up on you and yell, "BOO!"

5. What is the worst smell in the world?

"Lot's of poop...from James' butt!"

Yep...there would be poop answer in there.

6. Where do babies come from?

"In there" *points to my stomach

Good answer kid.

7. If you could, what two animals would you combine?

a bunny and a zebra

8. Who is your best friend?
James

That always melts my heart.

9.What is your favorite thing to do with your family?

family game night

10. If you had a million dollars, what would you buy?

A house and a TV. 

I'm pretty psyched he'd buy a house. He always asks me when we can live in a bigger house. LOL!

11. If you had super powers, what would they be?

"Electric-ing people, and super strength.

That first one has me a little concerned. He wants to electrocute people?! hahaha! Maybe Pa T. was telling him tales of "Electric Man" that he told my sisters and I growing up.

12. If you could be president for that day, what would you do?

"My name would be Obama!" *giggles

I don't think he really knows what the president does, so that answer cracked me up!

13. What is your favorite word, and why?

"Daniel, because that's my name!"

Makes sense.

14. If you played in a band, what instrument would you play?

An accordion. 

LOL!

15. What's something you want to learn how to do?
"Snip a tree." 

Translation: Cut down a tree.

Still super random.

16. What is something that you're thankful for?
Hugs

So sweet!

17. What's the best thing about being you?
"I'm special."

Aww. Yes, you are child.

Short and Sweet

Because after I get the boys to bed in a few minutes, I'm gonna lay on the couch and watch TV for the rest of the night. And it's not gonna be Disney Jr.!

The boys and I had a good day today. Daniel didn't have preschool today, to we went to Springfield. Daniel really wanted to go to Target and Hobby Lobby. Am I raising him right, or what!? He also wanted Olive Garden, but settled for Chick-fil-a.

We hit up Target first. Daniel has had some money in his bank for awhile now, and I never let him spend it. So today I told him he could bring it along. He brought it in his little paper wallet, and it was adorable. (I asked him other night if he'd like a real wallet and he told me, "Not really. I prefer my wallet that I have." Ha!)

We perused the dollar spot for quite awhile, as Daniel picked up random Christmas decor and would gush over how "beautiful" they were.

We looked at toys, but there was nothing that seemed to catch his eye. Plus, he was itching to play the video games they have on display. What is with boys and video games? I finally got him away and we went back to look at books. He picked out 2 books to buy with his money and then we continued on.

At check out he paid with his money and was so excited to get his own receipt and change back! James just sat in the cart the WHOLE time we checked out, waving and telling the cashier "Bye! Bye! See ya soon!"

Next we headed to Chick-fil-a. I had hoped to beat the crowds, but there was no such luck. After waiting in line forever and a day with a wiggly and irritated 2 year old we finally ordered and sat down to wait for our food. I couldn't get my hoodie off fast enough. I was dying of a hot flash.  By this time, I was regretting telling Daniel no to Olive Garden. James was screaming for his "nuggets and fries!", while I fished out some snacks and gave him an appetizer.  Daniel ate 2 nuggets and hadn't had a snack. James had a snack and proceeded to eat SEVEN nuggets. He would have eaten more, but they were all gone.

After lunch we went to Goodwill just to see what they had. Not much. But, we did get 5 or 6 books so that was a win.

Off to our final stop, Hobby Lobby. Much browsing was done. We found a few things to buy, but if I had the space and the money I'd buy just about half of the things in there. It's a dangerous place!

That about sums it up. Now to get these little monsters to bed. All in all a successful day with no massive meltdowns. Sometimes miracles happen!

Gratitude Challenge-Week 4 Memories with Grandma

This week is about a family member. I picked my Grandma T. I am so thankful to have her for grandma. She is loving, caring, faithful, firm in her faith, and has the patience of a saint. I've never heard her raise her voice and have only seen her a bit frustrated a handful of times. For example, the time Grandpa came in from his garden and tracked muddy footprints across the light pink carpet. She is role model and someone who I have always looked up to.

So, in honor of her, here are 15 memories with her in no particular order:

1. She let me "fake bake" at their house. Fake baking consisted of finding random ingredients, wet and dry, and mixing them all up in a bowl. The grandma would taste it and declare it delicious. As a kid I legit thought she was trying it. I realize now, there was no way she was putting that crap in her mouth!

2. Playing, "Hide the Cube" and "Hide the Dominoes". This is exactly what it sounds like. We would hide this clear cube she kept on the piano, or dominoes. Then she would have to go search for them, or she would hide them and we would search. She would play this over and over again with us.

3. Playing the piano. She would play songs for us...especially at Christmas. There was a carol book that I always made her play, "Jingle Bells, Frosty, and Rudolph" from. And we were always allowed to bang on the piano. We sounded awful, but she just let us have at it.



4. Fun little trips together in the summer. It usually consisted of going to a local museum, but I loved it! One year she and grandpa took me to the Tulip Festival in Pella. Another time we went to Des Moines to go shopping.

5. She and grandpa let us stay by ourselves during the summer. It was fun being an only child for a week or two. Getting one on one with grandma was priceless.

6. During those weeks I could eat ANYTHING I wanted. I lived on French toast for breakfast, and many frozen pizzas and burritos. I once convinced them to take me on a wiener roast for breakfast at the state park. And one year I had an Oreo Blizzard from DQ every single night. Not even kidding.

7. She always had fun activities planned. She still tries to plan activities to this day. Lots of silly games, and there was usually a box of prizes to pick from if you won.

8.Going to school with her. She taught right across the street from her house. When I was younger I wanted to be a teacher, so I was living the dream. I would "teach" her and sit at her desk and pretend to grade papers.

9. Talks on the front porch swing. There was always something special about sitting out on the porch and just talking about life. She is always a good listener and never interrupts a story. She would tell me stories from her life as well.

10. Chariton (her town) got their first movie theater and we went to see Twister. Grandma had to leave halfway through because the movement made her motion sick!

11. She has always been open about her faith. To this day she sends me letters and tells me that she prays for me every day, and I very much believe that she does.

12. We'd always make trips to Piper's. Their local candy store. I could always pick some penny candy and then she'd buy me their infamous mints. I still love when I get a box in the mail! Although, I think they changed their recipe over the years.

13. She would play Monopoly for hours on end with me, and always let me buy Boardwalk and Park Place. I loved to bankrupt her with houses and hotels.

14. Chats at the dining room table. These have always been just as special at porch swing talks. When our whole family was there, I would always try to be the first one awake, because Grandma was always down at the table looking at the paper and drinking coffee. As soon as I would come down she would put the paper down and we would just talk.

15. Getting to see her interact with my own boys, It doesn't happen often enough, but she loves them, and I hope she'll get to watch them grow for several more years!

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