Missing Mr. Jo

So...my husband has been officially gone for 7 days...ugh. No...he didn't leave me (don't get all crazy)...he is working in Michigan (and we live in Illinois). It was a wonderful opportunity that he was asked to go and work for two weeks....BUT I must have been delusional when I agreed to it. We have three little kids...all under 4....ahhhh..I am going crazy...well not that I wasn't a little crazy before hand..but it seems to be getting worse. I must admit the first couple of days I think I was physco mommy....my kids would look at me like I had three heads...but I was just getting to overly stressed out about everything. I have however got the hang of it by now...still not easy...but I have been pulling out every piece of patience that I might have. I even ventured out yesterday to...THE MALL...well...I did take a friend with me...and boy was he a big help (thanks)...I got little AnnMarie's pictures taken...you know her six month pics...even though she is almost going to be eight months...but I never said I was on top of things (I'd like to be on top of my husband...but with him in another state I am thinking not a real good possibility). Any who...I think the nights are the worst..I am not used to be alone....and by the end of the day...those patience I have pulled so hard for are almost none existent. I have vowed that after these seven days that I am NEVER going to divorce Mr. Jo...I just can't handle these crazies by myself...lol....but I did inform him that if he ever decided to leave me...he could have full custody....(relax I am just joking....maybe he could just have Robert...okay...geez....I would want them)...he laughed....as a man that is seven days free of home would..with no responsibilities...no dirty diapers...no laundry..no filling sippy cups....no fighting..no screaming.....but then he is missing the good parts as well....no hugs....no priceless smiles...no kisses...no bedtime stories....no playing blocks....but we did call and give him the "i love yous"...and boy did he like that....I think he misses us just as much as we miss him....soon....very soon...he will be home...and then we can get back to normal...(well as normal as this family knows)! Enjoy your coffee!

The hidden computer.....and a busy life...

See what happens when I move the computer into a different room...I don't see it...I don't sit at it...then I don't get on it.....and I don't blog....it's a terrible cycle. I must admit the computer being in a different room has really helped the rest of the house. Someone how though it keeps me from getting on it....even checking my email has become difficult...my online friends seem to think they are being ignored...BUT the plus side of all of this is I am actually getting things done around here....cause I am not being distracted by the computer every fifteen minutes. I have missed you all...I do enjoy blogging as it does give me an outlet for things in my mind..I need all the space in there that I can get. It seems as though we have become a very busy family lately. Trying to fit all of our activities into one week is becoming quite a task. We seem to only have Thursday and Saturday free every week....and boy when those are your only days to either be a family or do other things they fill up fast....actually I don't even like to count Saturdays because they are usually always filled up as well. Between dance, school, small group, church, work for me, work and overtime for Mr. Jo...we have crazy lives. We are loving all the things we are involved in right now in our lives but sometimes it is nice to just sit on the couch and do nothing(which is rarely happening). The days are going by so fast as well lately. These kids of mine just need to stop growing I can't believe that my baby is going to be four next month...and the littlest one just turned seven months...seven months(and she finally got her first tooth)...it feels like I just had her yesterday(considering I am still carrying around her baby weight)....every week feels like a day..and that's just too damn fast. Life is good right now...things are coming together....and we are enjoying each other...the ride is fast....but we are trying to slowly take it all in....I hope to try and continue to blog....I just am going to have to start penciling it in my schedule (tee hee)...Enjoy your coffee!

To My Dearest Husband

Dear Mr Jo,
Today is our 6th anniversary. I know you are shocked that you have survived this long with me...but you have. The past six years have just flown by...it seems as only yesterday that we were dating. I have enjoyed every day with you...and look forward to many more ahead of us. I must say that I need to thank God for blessing me with you. You are a wonderful husband and father...you are strong...yet sensitive..you are everything I need in my life. Granted it isn't always sunshine and roses around here (especially lately) but, its seems as long as we support each other we will get through it. I know that I really couldn't have made it this far without you. It still makes me smile thinking about you....and I hope that never goes away. You are my rock..as I hope that I am yours. You love me for me....and that is such a priceless gift. Giving me strength when I have none left....and making me smile when no one else can. I really do cherish you. It's great knowing that we still can have great fun as well....six years and three kids later we know how to enjoy ourselves. I don't want to ever lose that. We need to remember to always take time for ourselves..and with each other. From the words of a wonderful movie " You had me at hello." I plan on never saying goodbye! I love you more than words can express. Forever and Always.
Mrs. Jo

P.S. Go take some time out today and tell someone you love them....Enjoy your coffee!

My life adjustment...

I think that I must just put this in writing...before it gets bad again..and I don't' believe it.

"Life feels pretty good right now."

Well now that it's said...life will start in a downward spiral into a nothingness! I had a minor...okay major issue about 2 weeks ago. This issue caused me to panic...and truthfully break down completely (to those of you that got the butt end of it...soo sorry)...but it has gotten better. The issue has been solved..well mostly. And we had to get help....but not as much as we were first assuming. Although this little problem caused me to panic..it kind of made me look at my life right now...and readjust my thinking. Which for me was very good..cause I have been in such a negative frame of mind...for many many months now. With the holidays coming..I thought for sure that it was going to get worse. I am stepping back...taking a deep breath...and going forward with my "life on loan"....and focusing on the positive. Realizing that God has a plan for me..and this is just a small bump in my life long road....I am sure there will many more bumps ahead...and it's all going to depends on how I handle them as to how much those bumps are really going to hurt. I am blessed with so many loving people in my life right now to help me work through things...and just be there to listen to me complain...cry..or talk...to those of you many kisses and hugs of appreciation. I think that recently I have stepped back...and looked at life as it is right now...we may be struggling in some senses...but we are blessed in so many more...I cherish that. The days ahead...are only going to be what I make of them...and from now on I choose to make them good. End of story..Enjoy your coffee!

The toys have been conquered!

So I broke down...and cleaned the toy room. The day started with no real intention to clean at all...by cleaning I mean I made all sorts of messes(by trying to organize)...but cleaned some up too. I was supposed to have a friend come over for a play date...so I thought..maybe I should sweep the living room floor as it was looking rather ick....then under the entertainment center caught my eye...there was toys galore...no kidding....cause toys haunt my everyday life. I thought well I have the time..I might as well move it and sweep under there and retrieve all those long lost toys.....and while I am at it..I will move the couch and love seat as well....oh boy did things get busy from there....I was going good...moving things...cleaning under things...(just a side note when looking for new furniture...make sure it sits on the floor and things can't slide under it....things will get lost...for a very very long time)...I grabbed a bin from the toy room(there were obviously empty ones since my children never fill them) and started piling the new found toys into them. After I got done cleaning under things..I grabbed all the toys from the living and dining rooms. Then the issue began...I walked with the full bins to the toy room...and ugh....it was sooo messy...that I could not just set those bins in there (like I wanted to )..and walk away. Soooo being the wonderful wife and mommy that I am...I started to clean...(luckily as this started...our play date conveniently called and cancelled). As I am starting to pick up toys..it's going through my head as to why I should bother...I needed some guidance...some plans as to what to do with the toy drama that is soaking up my life....and my house. So first things first....the play kitchen has to go...it's big..it's dirty...it has crayon all over it (no idea where that came from...Robert!)...so I thought...well I will put it out the curb with a "free" sign attached and see what happens. Although I was sooo not prepared for Rose's reaction...you would of thought that I was chopping off her left arm...the way that she was screaming...crying...sobbing...omg..it was hilarious....I explained to her that we would give it to some other little kids..that really needed it...blah ..blah..blah...(she of course wasn't buying it)...but I am mean(but it did get taken...and she was okay with it ...alot later that is)..so I put it on the curb anyway....(this also allowed to store away ALL the play food..and dishes..etc...*jumping for joy*)...then I had this brilliant idea..that I would ship bags of toys to each of the kids rooms..and separate out the baby toys....boy did that make a HUGE difference in the toy room (not to mention all the crap I threw out)....the room actually looked kind of bare when I was getting close to being done...so being the brilliant person that I am..I thought...why not put the computer desk in there (like it was many moons ago..before our hooligans came along)...and to my benefit removing it from the living room...(ha ha...now Mr. Jo can't ignore me by watching tv and being the computer at the same time)...and the room looks really nice....less toys...so that maybe they will play with them..and toys in their rooms...for when we have no tv time and mommy wants some peace and quiet....and mommy finally might get daddy's full attention in the evenings(ah who am I kididng now he just won't watch tv..and I'll never see him)...I really think everyone will benefit (well maybe not Mr. Jo...but ahhh you can't please them all!)

As a side note though Mr. Jo did take a table I was trying to use as my craft table...although it wasn't working the way I had it....and put it in the empty spot in the living room....he even organized all my scrapbook stuff..into bins ..and drawers....it looks amazing..and the fact that he did that just for me....was very very nice of him....he just might have to be rewarded...but enough about that...Enjoy your coffee!

Toys... to play with or not to play with?

Why....oh why do I have toys for my children? Why ...oh why do I have a special room just for their toys? Why..oh why do my damn children mess up their toy room and then NOT play in it? Why..oh why do my children like to play with their toys in the living room..and NOT the toy room? Why...oh why do I not just throw them all away? Why...cause I am a nice mommy (that is completely losing her mind) that's why!

Okay here's what Wikipedia says:
A toy is an object used in play. Toys are usually associated with children and pets, but it is not unusual for adult humans and some non-domesticated animals to play with toys(I mean seriously...they had to put that in there!). Many items are manufactured to serve as toys, but items produced for other purposes can also be used as toys. A child may pick up a household item and 'fly' it around pretending that it is an airplane, or an animal might play with a pine cone by batting at it, chasing it, and throwing it up in the air. Some toys are intended primarily as collector's items and are not to be played with.

The first line "A toy is an object used in PLAY!" A toy is not to be thrown out of the basket or bin that it is so nicely stored in....a toy is not to be stepped on...a toy is for your entertainment. My children obviously missed this memo. Toys are not just for messing up their special room...you actually can play with them..and then PUT THEM AWAY! I know..you might think that I am being a little harsh...my children are still little...but I am not. Those little heathens literally go in there...dump out the baskets and bin...pull out the draws..pull all the books off the shelves..and then their play time is over(and this is always right after mommy has spent her time cleaning it). I mean ...really...and then they have the nerve to not want to play in there anymore ...as Rose says "cause it's messy"..well DUH..you did it....I should just give them all away....or sell them....or just pack them up and hide them...but then again..that's a lot of work for me...and I am just not willing to give up my precious time of sitting at the computer for that.

Enjoy your coffee!

Sick or Dead?

So as I am begining to be well aware that having a almost four year old makes my life way more interesting. The conversations I have been having with Rose lately are just priceless! We are driving to Nana's house last night on the way home from dance....and we see an ambulance turn the corner on the opposite side of the road..with it's lights flashing and sirens going. This is the conversation that followed:

Rose: "Mommy....what is that thing called again?"

Me: "It's called an ambulance."

Rose: "Oh..right an...andulamce...I member."

Me: " No honey, it's a.m.b.u.l.a.n.c.e."

Rose: "that's what I said......someone must be sick....OR dead!"

Me: "No I am sure they are just sick honey...not dead...why don't we say a prayer for the person in the ambulance that they get better."

Rose: "They ARE sick or dead mommy...probably dead."

Me: "Let's not say that they are dead...if they have their lights on that means the person is just really sick (making this up..hoping to get her off the dead subject.)"

Rose: "When you are dead you go to the dr.......dead people go to dr's...."

Me: " (OMG)....no honey when you are dead you aren't alive anymore so they won't need to go to the dr...."

Rose: "But...they are probably dead...right?!"

Me: " Can we please just stop talking about being dead...we will just assume that the person in the ambulance is sick..and going to the hospital..ok..?!"

Rose: "ugh....but I think they are dea......OH look mommy horses.....can I ride a horse someday...?"

Me: "Sure honey..(thinking..thank God you have ADD like your daddy...and we can stop talking about dead people)

Rose: " Ok ..I will ride a horse when I getter bigger...ok :) "

Some Halloween Help?!

Okay so every year it's a tradition that my in-laws have a Halloween Bash. It is requested that you dress up. Especially if you are part of the family (well duh I obviously am!)sooo..I need help! My husband and I have done pretty good the last couple of years with costumes. This year for some reason I am struggling. We have little money (and boy do I mean little ) ...sooo we need to think of something that we can put together ourselves maybe with a few props cheaply. We have previously been..."A Wizard & Medival Queen"..."Tweedle Dee & Tweedle Dumb"...."Pink Ladies & T-Birds"...."Devil & Pregnant Lady (that was Mr. Jo)...."A Bears fan & Bare foot and Pregnant "(we just went as ourselves...i was pregnant with AnnMarie last year...it was fun) So now this year is quickly approaching and I need some ideas. I love dressing up it brings some of the childhood fun into it. We however need something that is easy and cheap...sooo send me your ideas....anything...so go get some coffee and think(maybe some of our ideas will help you..if you are the dress up type)... Enjoy your coffee!

Just wondering...

Does every mom wonder..."can I make it through this?"..."will they appreciate me when they get older?"..."am I disciplining them correctly?" All of these thoughts keep running through my mind the past couple of weeks. Life around here has been somewhat crazy and stressful and I just can't get these thoughts out of my head. Do other moms have these concerns...am I just crazy....how do other people deal? I know I love my kids...and I know that they love me. It's just been a rough patch lately....three small kids....one boy that is a handful...a baby...and a little girl getting an attitude (from me i assume..damn it!)...any help? I guess lately it's just been hitting a nerve with me...but I am sure that I will be fine...I just wish I could stop questioning myself. Enjoy your coffee!

Robert's Art Project

Crayons next time...Enough Said! Enjoy your coffee!

Another shower adventure with Rose

I obviously didn't learn anything from my last shower experience with my daughter..but she was very insistant that she take a shower with me last night (cause she thinks it's such a big girl thing to do)..so being the best mommy ever..I let her. Boy was that a mistake.

I'll set the scene...small town, IL...little two story house on main st......little bathroom...(and little I mean you almost have to be a contorstionist to walk in there)...me..and my daughter, Rose
(almost 4)..undressing to take a shower....

Me: (undressing so I can get in the shower)

Rose: (Looking at me with great question in her face) "I am growing big boobs too mommy." (touching herself as she's saying this)

Me: "Oh, really...that's nice."

Rose: "They are going to be really big like yours...they just are still growing ..right now."

Me: "okay" (thinking..stupid stupid me..for letting her take a shower with me again)

Rose: "What is that ,mommy, on your boobs?" (with the strangest look on her face)

Me: "That is my nipple...." (OMG...trying not to laugh and cry at the same time)

Rose: *laughs..giggles* "Oh....I don't have nipples..hee hee!"

Me: "Yes you do they are right there...(pointing to her little dots on her chest)"

Rose: "Those aren't nipples silly..."

Me: "Okay (thinking..I'll go along with it if it means an end to this conversation)
(Thank God..converstation over...although she is still looking at me with question..but I hurry and get into the shower)

So later that night..we are at walmart(sucky)..and I really need a new bra...I am looking at them..and Mr Jo takes the kids to another part of the store (god forbid he is in the bra section)..but Rose is wanting to stay with me (of course she is)..so I let her. I grab a handful of bras and head into the dressing room...Rose in tow. I tell her to sit down and she does...watching me intently as I am trying on these bras. She is smiling..and I am thinking oh no..what is she going to say now. Then she gets up and giggles..."I want to try one on too." Without waiting for an answer she picks one up...and is trying to open it "where are the buttons on these things she says." Then..she proceeds to take off her shirt (even though I said ...Over the shirt!) but..she obviously doesn't listen. With no luck finding the button she just slips it over her head...now she is standing in front of the mirror..posing..and smiling at her self...(me standing behind her trying to not laugh)..then I realize....How do you know when your boobs are TOO big....when your bra cup is as big as your almost 4 year olds head! Needless to say...I really need to quit letting Miss Rose shower and dress with mommy...she's getting to curious.....and it's freaking me out! Enjoy your coffee!

An adventure in kid raising

For those of you that don't have boys (or boys like mine at least) you are very very lucky! My middle child, Robert, is just a little spit-fire. His new favorite word is "no." Oh yes and as you can imagine..it's just a blast to have him use it. I am all for updating your vocabulary but he could have never learned that word and I would be okay with it. The thing is he says it with such charm and personality, and of course always followed with a smile (cause he assumes that makes everything sooo much better). On top of loving his new word, no, he also has become quite the little terror lately. Purposely causing problems...or throwing things...hitting..biting..you know the fun stuff. My mom was nice enough to take me and the two youngest kids to breakfast the other morning. My sister was with as well..for this eventful gathering. Now the baby, AnnMarie, is a very good baby..doesn't cry for no reason..sits well and plays...but then there is her older brother...oh geez. We get seated in a booth and I have Robert on the side with me. He decides that he is going to talk to the lady sitting behind us (who is waiting for her party so kindly talks back with him)...I am trying to get him to sit down and be a good boy... he's refusing. He is taking the jelly little packets and the creamers and biting into them...I was only imagining one of them squirting open and flying across the table at my mom and sister (now that I think about it..it would have been pretty damn funny). It's time to feed AnnMarie so I have her sitting on the table giving her a bottle...and she knocks over a glass of water...everywhere...I get Robert to stand up..but he is refusing cause he wants to grab the ice cubes so he can eat them...there was water everywhere..and AnnMarie...continued happily eating. I give Robert two of his "people" to play with and a truck (thinking this will keep him entertained...yeah right). He does play for a bit...but decides to drop them under the table(oh and he was playing behind us and the lady thought he dropped a toy down her back)...and refuses to get them...also dropped his sippy cup down there...he thinks it's just hilarious that they are under there....and keep in mind its a tight booth..me, mom, and my sister...can't just squeeze under there. Sooo....the three of us are trying to get the toys and sippy cup with our feet. I can't even see most of them cause they are on my side...my sister is trying to guide me...we are all laughing...and as we get the pieces onto the table...Robert is taking them and throwing them over at mom(and by throwing I mean whipping them)...she is ducking and laughing..well...the laughing contributes to the throwing and Robert assumes we are liking the game he is playing so we are having a hard time getting him to stop. Finally...his fire deceases. At this point we are thinking..can we have the check now...breakfast is thankfully over..our bellies are full...Robert has had his fun (for now that is) ..and my mom and sister are thinking we are Never going to eat at a restaurant with you are your children again! Well....dealing with kids...in public always was an adventure...I am sure there are more fun times to come. Enjoy your coffee!

Our long weekend

So I haven't blogged in a couple of days. I guess I am feeling very ..ummm..blah (sorry that's the only word that is coming to mind). Since we had a long weekend...I am a little thrown off for my week. Considering it's Wednesday and I feel as if it is Tuesday. I guess maybe...since I have nothing better to do today..(well I do ..but who really wants to clean)..I can give you a synopsis of my weekend...it was rather...ehh..umm..boring (i am a mother of three living in the Midwest how exciting could it get plus I wanted to say it was "blah" but I have already used that description)..so since there is nothing better for me to think about writing why not indulge you with the highlights of my life (right..)Here goes nothin:





Friday: Oh yeah...we did nothing. I know shocker. My mother stopped by for a bit...she was off work, but she was on this kick that she needed to be alone...well alone in the sense..she didn't want anyone to go with her for the day (i.e. my children). Which actually I found quite funny. She wasn't working...she wasn't cleaning...she didn't have her grandchildren...she was doing nothing. It was driving her crazy...she looked like a lost puppy. She just wandered around for the day stopping here and there...then going home and not really knowing what to do (you see she is a busy body so this was very funny to witness). By the end of the day she was so annoyed with being alone..(she obviously doesn't have three small children at home anymore to keep her busy)..she says to me "Mrs. Jo, don't EVER let me do that again....this being alone all day stuff...trying to find things to do ...was for the birds." I was laughing sooo hard. After talking with her numerous times that day...my family and I just vegged out and watched the boob tube all night. Very enjoyable.





Saturday: We went and took family pictures. I have a wonderful surrogate mother that is a professional photographer (and may I just say that she is wonderful!). We went to a park...the bugs were horrible...and my kids were only semi cooperating. We did get some nice pics...and some very funny ones. I laugh at some of them..because even though it's not your average everyone smiling looking at the camera pic it captures my family to a tee....here's an example:

As you can see....my son Robert is trying to run away (typical he's always on the go)...Rose is sticking out her tongue...and AnnMarie is off in wonder land playing with the grass. As the parents Mr Jo and I are trying to smile ...even though we know that are children aren't participating. But hey that's us..I wouldn't have it any other way.

Sunday: Well you can see my previous blogs:Broken Car Part1 and Part 2 to hear about Sunday....oh..Sunday the day from hell!

Monday: My sister in law's neighbor was getting rid of a twin bed frame and mattress (conveniently the night before I had told my SIL that I was looking for one)..and she very kindly brought it over to us. Robert has been having lots of tough nights sleeping and we figured that it might have been due to his toddler bed mattress (aka crib mattress) I believe that it was ancient. Mr Jo and I figured that it might be beneficial for Robert to have a new big boy bed so he could sleep through the night (who am I kidding it was so we could sleep through the night). Robert did not like his bed at first he was very upset that "his bed" (meaning the old one ) wasn't there...but that soon changed and now he loves it...and so does his big sister...they have both slept in the bed for the past two nights..and might I add that it has been two nights of pure joy due to that bed Mr. Jo and I have gotten two wonderful nights of sleep..and only sleep! Yea!

Well...that was my weekend...in a nutshell....looking back it was enjoyable ..well mostly anyway...Enjoy your coffee!

Broken Car..Part 2

Well..the trauma is finally over...the van is fixed. Mr. Jo did indeed return from walmart(sucky) with a new battery..and go figure he actually got the right one this time. He went outside and put it in the van....and I decided to follow..nervous as hell that it wasn't going to work. He gets into the van...turns the key...AND ..it starts..yes...at first it seemed a little iffy...but then i completely started up and was running (like nothing was even wrong). I guess that's what we get from buying our battery at walmart(sucky) ..but we did get the other new one from there only cause it was free....so let's hope that it last longer than this one did! We even drove the van last night to my sister in law's and it worked. A big plus that we didn't get stranded anywhere on the road..cause that would have totally sucked. So at least we have one car for now...Mr. Jo's car will have to wait....we will put it on our 20 year plan..it might get fixed by then ;)
Enjoy your coffee!

Broken Car..Part 1

Okay..like life totally doesn't suck right now..let's add another problem to the mix. So I went to go to church this morning..all the kids in the car...everyone dressed nice and ready (keep in mind Mr. Jo was already at church ..cause he had to run sound) and my car wouldn't start! Seriously..on your day of rest God you must be laughing at me...ugh! Let me just tell you that Mr. Jo's car is broken right now too..it has been for about two weeks now...and life in general is just crazy..so this was just the cherry on top of a big "sucky" sundae. So...I called my Mechanic guy and he says that by the sound that is making it is probably the battery. I need to get a jump and see if that will start it. So I decide to wait for Mr. Jo to get home and he tries to jump it with my mom's car (which for some reason is also acting up and isn't doing anything right) sooo..he borrows the neighbors car and lets them sit for a few minutes and see if they will jump...ugh...as you guessed it...NO! But, however it did seem like it almost was going to turn over....so our mechanic guy said that is sounds like we have a crappy ass battery that won't hold a charge(that's what you get for going cheap and buying things from wal-mart...sucky ass walmart) and we should go and get a new one. Great ..cause we are just loaded..so let's of course go and buy a new battery. But, alas I do have the receipt for the battery and it had a three year warranty on it and it's only been 2 1/2 years. Thank the heavens. Soooo Mr. Jo heads off the wal-mart (sucky) to get a replacement one that we don't have to pay for (whooo hoo)...about an hour later he returns with the new battery. He is standing in the dining room and looking dumb founded at the battery and then realized that the battery he got has the wrong connecters..ugh..are you freakin kidding....welllll..he decided to go outside with my father and see if he can find some attachments to make it work...about ahhh 10 minutes later he returns...and looks pissed...he says "ummm I looked up the battery type for my Grand Am and not the van!"...OMG seriously...so off to walmart him and dad go for yet another battery....stayed tuned for more..and really go drink some damn coffee..cause I haven't and it's obviously a problem today!

Toy Commercials must die....

Ugh...why oh why do they insist on putting a million (and yes a million) toy commercials on my child's favorite TV channel. Well of course it's because they love to torture me! Rose is wanting everything and anything that they show on there. I mean really come on..she doesn't even no what some of the things are ...she just says "Mommy I want that for my birthday" I think that I heard this about 50 times today alone..grrr..so annoying..I would like to get those TV executives on the phone and give them a piece of my mind. Well onto tomorrow..where I am sure there will be more toy commercials and more "i wants" and I will be more annoyed! Enjoy your coffee!

Hoover FloorMate Spin Scrub...Amazing!

So as you all know I clean houses for a living (ahh who am I kidding..I clean one house). Anywho..I went yesterday for our biweekly cleaning..and she had bought a new floor cleaner (for her wood floors). I was exstatic...I know wow..a floor cleaner but, her other one sucked butt...and it leaked all over the place and I never felt like it actually made the floors clean. The new one that she bought is the Hoover FloorMate SpinScrub...OMG it's amazing. It's the best floor cleaner that I think I have ever seen...I need one for my own house. If you are in the market for a floor cleaner..I give this one 5 thumbs up...so go ahead..and get one..oh yeah..and can you pick me up one too! Enjoy your coffee!

1 Headache, 2 Batches of cookies, and 3 Baths....

The Tuesday night adventure:

The next time you think baking cookies is a good idea...Rethink. Yesterday afternoon I thought that maybe it would be fun to make cookies with Rose...and Mr. Jo had been wanting cookies anyway...so I could make them both happy. Well that was the dumbest idea I had all week. I got out the cookbook looking for a peanut butter cookie recipe...found one that was sort of like what I wanted ..but not really (that should have been my first clue to not bake)..and I also spotted a recipe called "chocolate revel bars" and ooh that sounded yummy. So I decided to do both. (dumb..dumb..dumb) I started the peanut butter ones..and miss Rose helped. We got them all mixed up and I got them in the oven.....I was watching them and thinking ugh..they are so flat! I mean really...(it prolly didn't help that I really don't' have a good cookie sheet..mine is so old I think it has wrinkles) sooo anyway I decide ..so they are flat they will be fine...I take them out..and this is what I get

As you can see...they are F.L.A.T..and when I tried to use the spatula to get them off the pan they smushed all together..and I couldn't leave them in any longer cause they would have burnt. Ugh...I should have stopped right here....but..it's me and obviously I am a moron. So I am already irritated with first batch as I start the second (thinking at least they are a bar cookie so I won't need a cookie sheet). I get almost done mixing the second batch and I am at the second to last ingredients...flour.. my flour jar is empty..but I know I have more in the freezer...Well I thought I did anyway...I mean really...does anything else want to piss me off! So here is the second batch all in a bowl..and no more freakin flour...so I send hubby to the store(my knight in shining armor)..he returns with flour..and I can finish. So here's the second batch...the look of it was kind of frightening.

Okay so ...it looks like slop right? I mean come on..this so IS NOT a bar cookie...although I must admit that both of these cookies were really good (despite their crappy appearance).

Onto the next adventure of the night....baths. It was bath night in our household...all kids under 4 feet take a bath together (under 4 feet rule so Mr. Jo can't get in..you now that he is sooo my fourth kid...fortunatley he did take a shower on his own..good boy). So anyway...I get Rose and Robert in there first. I always warn them not to splash cause they get the whole bathroom soaking wet. I must mention that my bathroom is like the size of a coat closet...well okay...maybe smaller. It's tiny..and I hate it...but that neither here nor there. Back to the baths...they proceed to get water everywhere....Rose tells me her pee pee is red...Robert is using the side of the tub like a slide...and AnnMarie..just stares at everyone in complete horror.

Rose posing...she'll like this one when she's sixteen!

Robert...I wonder how water got everywhere could be that he kept squirting things!

The three amigos on their water adventure

So let's recap....2 batches of cookies...one that looked like crap...and one that looked flat..but both fortunately tasted great...3 baths....lots of water....everywhere..but at least they got clean...OH and I forgot to mention I had a headache start right after that first batch of cookies....I mean how mean is God...like I wasn't stressed out enough..let's add a headache into the mix..Well..thank you. So 1 headache, 2 batches of cookies, and 3 baths but, the night eventually ended..and everybody went to bed with their sweet tooth's cured and clean bodies...does it get any better! Enjoy your coffee!

Summer Memories...

So with Rose starting school so recently ( and being my first baby to start) I have been thinking alot lately of past times in my life. Going through many happenings in my past...that for some reason are making me more emotional than I ever thought (must be time for my period). Summer just seemed so short this year..does anyone else feel like that or is it just me? We had lots of fun and tried to enjoy every minute of it, but with a new baby and getting used to life with three kids June, July and now almost August have flown by. I keep thinking about summers as a kid. When mom and dad used to work and I could kind of have the days to myself...well for the most part there was the occasional watching little sister and brother...but hey..they really could have watched themselves ..right...ha ha. I have fond memories of in junior high going to my best friend's house and watching ABC soaps all afternoon long(why on earth I was addicted to soaps then and not now...who knows)...and we would make that rice a roni stuff...and eat it ALL! It used to be sooo much fun having NO responsibilities (unlike now..they just keep stacking up). There was one summer when I was probably 8 or so (ahh I really don't remember what age I was...so mom feel free to contribute) and I was riding my banana seat bike (you know you had one!). I rode it across the street to the neighbors (he was a priest and used to give me candy..and don't go all mind in the gutter with that one..he was nice)...I left and started to ride home I started to lose my balance and my big toe got stuck in my bike chain...I know! Ouch! I fell to the ground...with it still stuck..screaming bloody murder for help...my parents had the door closed with the air on...it took quite some time for someone to help me...needless to say..I had lots of stiches in my toe and got in trouble for riding my bike with no shoes! The summer that I was about 13 or so my parents decided to take a two week vacation traveling out west and then south...to end at my uncles in Arizona. The crap ass thing was my dad decided to drive all three kids and my parents..in a van...with NO air conditioning...in AUGUST! I mean really dad...not your brighest move. Parts of the trip were fun...can't say that I want to do that again...but the experience has added character to my life. I am sure with the summer ending and all the kids going back to school you to are refleting on the summer that has past and the memories of summers long ago...so tell me..what are you crazy summer memories?

Enjoy your coffee!

It's Friday....let's talk about ME!

So it's Friday..and who doesn't want to do something useless on Friday! I decided to give you some more VERY interesting facts about myself...it's been a couple months since I have last enlightened you. After reading these and possibly my other previous useless fact blogs..."More Usless Info" and "Welcome" are you obviously going to want to be my friend...but there is a waiting line (I can only handle so many) so please send me a comment and I will give you a number...and you can hold onto it with great pride! So here we go:

1. I am always taking pics of me with someone.. myself...like holding the camera out in front of us and shooting (it always turns out terrible..but it's fun..and who doesn't like fun!)

2. I get car sick all the time. I need to sit in the front seat or be driving..otherwise the chunks are a coming. (I prefer driving..only cause then I am in control ;)

3. Going back to the control thing....I completely like being in control...I know what you are thinking..I am a one of those control freaks..not like that..just when I have my life in my own hands..making the decisions..I usually feel better.

4. All of my babies have blonde...really blonde..hair..and Mr. Jo and I are not blonde..it's just weird (I know it will probably change but for now it's weird ok!)

5. My hair is curly and brown (well most of the time)..it's usually a pain in the butt to manage..but somehow everyone else loves it...ugh..then they should have it!

6. I love to cuddle...usually with Mr. Jo..but with my kids as well. We are a very lovey touchy family..we love hugs..and kisses!

7. The "Wedding Planner" is my all time favorite movie. Does it get any better than Jennifer Lopez and Matthew Macounahey..I mean come on!

8. I can not stand changing poopy diapers. (and seeing that I have three kids..two which are still in diapers..it's pretty much impossible to avoid)

9. I cherish my family and friends with all my heart. You should never unappreciate the people that are around you. Family and friends make life so much more of an enjoyable ride!

10. I got married when I was 19 (and No I wasn't pregnant) I was in LOVE and wanted to get married. So I did!

11. I am addicted to Disney Channel "tween" shows (and so is Mr. Jo..I might as well out him..if I am outing myself) They just draw me in...not sure why...but I always find myself distracted with what I am trying to do to watch them.

12. My legs are hardly ever shaved...I hate doing it. I always feel like it's a waste of time..you shave them..then the freakin' hair just grows right back..ugh..I guess it's not very lady like..but who cares!

13. I am addicted to pictures. I love to take them..frame them..change them..anything to do with pictures count me in!

14. I HATE when the phone rings busy...I will just keep calling and keep calling (like it makes a difference) ..to hopefully get through. It's just something that I can't stand..that busy signal in the phone..it just makes me soooo annoyed!

15. I always have to wear earrings. I feel like I look funny without them ( could just be a personal opinion..but ahh who knows)

Okay so there you have it...your life just keeps getting better with all this info about me..doesn't it!? So enjoy your Friday..go give someone that doesn't care ..some useless info about yourself..it will make you feel fabulous! Enjoy your coffee!

The joy or lack there of ..for school!

Well...Ms. Rose went to school for the very first time on Wednesday. It seems that she had a good time (you ask..why did I say "it seems")...well...she is giving me answers to questions I ask about school in a very general manner. I say did you have fun at school today..."yes"...what did you you do at school today "I don't know"...did you make new friends "sure"..what are their names.."i don't know"...did you go to gym class today.."no"...did you wear your new gym shoes today "yes"..then you went to gym.."no"..."we played games" (in the gym of course I guess she just doesn't know what it is)
She however does love riding the bus.

She is always very excited to get to go to school in the morning as soon as she's up..she asks if she ca

n go to school...I say sure honey..let's wait a bit..it's not time yet...and she gives me the "rose look"..like okay..but I really want to go now. Today when I got her off the bus she was very upset...they have assigned seats on the bus (which is good since they are only preschool age)BUT..she didn't get to sit next to Lover Boy on the bus (Lover boy aka: the neighbor boy who is her "boyfriend"). I asked her who did she sit with and she said some boy..ugh..I wanted to sit with Lover boy...(what on earth were these bus drivers thinking making my little girl sit with some other boy on the bus..come on i mean what nerve).
So school as been interesting so far...she seems interested(if that's what I can gather from her oh so extensive answers) and excited to go.....I thought that this kind of thing was supposed to happen when the kids were older and unresponsive...and I am getting this from my almost 4 year old....what on earth am I in for when she 14....
Enjoy your coffee! (I am sure needing more these days!)

Some hairy humor

When to know that you have tooo much chest hair (not us girls don't worry..I am talking to the men today...although girls if you have this problem seek professional help)?
Today I shaved Mr. Jo's head. His hair has been extremely long for quite a while now and it was only a matter of time before it needed shaved again. We decided to do it before dinner..in the kitchen...Mr. Jo is sitting in his shorts and no shirt ( I know ladies control yourselves). I think Mr. Jo is a little apprehensive about the fact that I am behind him with a razor..but he controls himself and lets me proceed. Rose is completely interested in this matter and of course is in the kitchen asking a million questions..and "helping mommy" (of course she is just in the way..but that's neither here nor there). Rose is playing with items in the box from the razor (we were able to borrow from a friend)...and there were scissors and a comb in there. I needed to use the scissors to cut the rest of the lose ends that the razor didn't get...Rose thought that I needed the comb to assist the razor...but to her dismay I did not...Soo she proceeds to use the comb in the best way that she sees fit.....
Combing her daddy's chest and stomach hair! I thought that I was going to lose it. I was laughing sooo hard...(and Mr. Jo doesn't really find this as humorous as me)..Rose is looking at me like "what" isn't that what it's for. Needless to say I think that Ms. Rose has made daddy a little self conscious of his hairy chest ;)
Enjoy your coffee!

As time goes by

So the world turns...life comes and life goes...and as a mother you watch your children get older. I know in my heart they have to get older ...some days it's just an overwhelming feeling that they someday will be adults (and I too will have to be older). I was just watching them the other day..each of them in their own ways are growing...their personalities are flourishing...and their hearts are growing stronger. It's wonderful to see that they behave..they have manners (not sure where that came from)..that they can and will be wonderful big people some day.

Rose- She's turning into such a little diva. She has the smile that will melt her daddy to puddles (oh you no it Mr. Jo..don't deny). She is very into dancing and singing...recently she has added Cheerleader to her resume...she cheers for anything and everything. Even her brother and sister are something for her to cheer about "Go AnnMarie...goo....you are a good baby...GOOOO AnnMarie!" It's hilarious! She loves everyone so openly..(I take pride that she might have gotten that from me)..I see so much growth in her in the last six months or so. She carries on conversations with me like a grown up sometimes...(with attitude and all) but I am enjoying every minute of it. It's priceless for her to say "mommy I love you" and know that she was not told to say it..she wanted to...all on her own. She is starting school on Wednesday..a preschooler..ahhh..she is sooo excited (as am I ) but it will be weird with her gone even if it's for that short period of time. To you Rose....you are a wonderful daughter..and I see you growing into a beautiful woman someday..Mommy loves you very much!

Robert- Oh boy where do I start with this one. He is boy straight down to the bone. Everything is does and says is boy..and then every once in a while you get a little love out of him...he's wonderful. He has a smile that lights up the whole room...he's almost always in a wonderful mood..constantly moving here or there..into everything. He just turned 2 in June...and he is talking up a storm all the sudden. Sentences are coming out of him and they completely catch me off guard. He's very into "I need" .."I want" mode...it's great. He has this laugh that is contagious. Him and his sister are becoming great friends..and I hope that they have the kind of love that every brother and sister should have...that they care about each other and stand by one another. His new thing is to come up to you and say "I want a hug" (just melts your heart doesn't it) and then he gives you his million dollar smile...it's wonderful. Robert...you are such a fast pace moving little man...with a big smile and warm heart...I know that some day you are going to make some woman very proud. (just like your daddy!)

AnnMarie- She is soo new to the world still...but keeps changing so much everyday (I guess that's what happens with babies). It's seems like yesterday that we were bringing her home from the hospital..and now she is getting a personality all of her own. It's great to see her smile at you..knowing that it's actually you! She is such a daddy's girl..I thought Rose was bad..but oh boy ...AnnMarie has him wrapped. It's adorable. He comes home from work..and she just stares at him until he notices her and says "hi" ..then he gets the biggest smile that you have ever seen. She being the last child...very different from the rest...Rose and Alex were very similar as babies...but AnnMarie is in a league of her own. She is my "watcher" baby. Always taking in the surroundings...watching people (she might have gotten that from mommy)..and then if she feels like its appropriate..she'll give you a smile. She just doesn't give smiles to anyone..in her eyes you have to earn it. It's hilarious! AnnMarie...you are a wonderful baby..that has lots of love coming from your older siblings...if you start to turn out like them...you will make mommy and daddy very proud!

I have learned lately that you really need to cherish the time that you have with your kids. You never know when they might not be here anymore. Take everyday as it's the best day. Sometimes we get lost in everyday life. Just take a moment and sit back and watch your kids..enjoy them...love them...before you know it they will be having kids of their own!
Enjoy your coffee (but don't give any to the kids)

Keep the kids out of Arkansas!

Oh my ...I started to check my email and this article on Yahoo! caught my eye. The Arkansas government made a big oops! They made it legal for all ages (all including infants) to marry with a parents permission. Can you believe this...what idiot had the pen on that bill?! The government is debating on calling a special session to fix this law (debating...who is running this state!). Take a look at the article...too funny:

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. - A law passed this year allows Arkansans of any age — even
infants — to marry if their parents agree, and the governor may have to call a
special session to fix the mistake, lawmakers said Friday. The legislation was
intended to establish 18 as the minimum age to marry but also allow pregnant
teenagers to marry with parental consent, bill sponsor Rep. Will Bond said. An
extraneous "not" in the bill, however, allows anyone who is not pregnant to
marry at any age if the parents allow it.
"It's clearly not the intent to
allow 10-year-olds or 11-year-olds to get married," Bond said. "The legislation
was screwed up."
The bill reads: "In order for a person who is younger than
eighteen (18) years of age and who is not pregnant to obtain a marriage license,
the person must provide the county clerk with evidence of parental consent to
the marriage."
A code revision commission — which fixes typographical and
technical errors in laws — had tried to correct the mistake, but a group of
legislators said Friday the commission went beyond its powers.
"You're either
pregnant or you're not pregnant," Sen. Dave Bisbee said. "Rarely will that be a
typographical error."
The Arkansas Legislative Council asked the independent
commission to reverse its correction. Several lawmakers said a special session
may be necessary.
"We need a special session to fix this," Sen. Sue Madison
said. "I am concerned about pedophiles coming to Arkansas to find parents who
are willing to sign a very young child's consent."
Before the new law took
effect July 31, girls could get married with parental consent at 16 and boys at
17.
The Legislature formally adjourned its session in May and is not
scheduled to meet again until January 2009, unless Gov. Mike Beebe calls a
special session. Beebe said he wanted to look at all options for correcting the
error before deciding whether to call a special session.

So what's your take?...Have an unruly eenager...send them to Arkansas and pawn them off while you still can...!

Enjoy your coffee!

The Coffee Cup Challenge

Calling all coffee cups!

So I figured this being a blog heavily influenced by coffee...that we need to get your favorite coffee cups! I love coffee...most women I know enjoy it as well. Everyone I am sure has a favorite...cup..mug..travel cup..etc...that they use and just adore...it's either cute, practical, or holds a good memory. So I want to see them...send me(ssbeland@sbcglobal.net) a picture of your all time favorite coffee cup...the cup you use everyday..your special occasion coffee cup. Whatever one you just have to always keep..I want to see them. After I get a good collection going I will put them up on my blog for all to see. The world of fabulous cups needs to be shared! Here's my favorite cup.....So let's see what you are drinking out of!

Enjoy your coffee!

The guilt-stricken Nana

So have I told you about my mom yet....I suppose not...well her name is Nana (not her real name of course..don't go getting all confused). She is a loved and cherished member of this family. She is the woman that has made me the woman that I am today (not sure yet if that's a good thing or a bad thing?). Nana is one awesome "grandma" (we don't call her that ..it makes her feel old) and her grandchildren just adore her. Mr. Jo and I adore her as well...as she is the the one and only person that will take all three of our children..pretty much whenever we have something to do (kudos to you Nana!). Nana and my eldest daughter , Rose, have a special bond. Rose being the first grandchild...the first girl...she is always going to be first in my mother's eyes (her love is the same with all the kids..but theirs is a special one). Rose gets to go with Nana alot, being the oldest has it's perks, and she jumps at the chance whenever she gets to spend the night with her Nana. The other night Nana picks up Rose to stay the night...they were off to go shopping for a bit before going home...and later that night..this is the phone call I received:

Me: "Hello"
Nana: "Hi...(sounding a bit distraught)...I just wanted to let you know I HAD to spank Rose"
Me: "Okay...(sort of laughing in my head ..thinking how awful this must have been for her since Rose is her "holy child")
Nana: "We are shopping and she was hiding on me...I stopped her and said that you can't hide on Nana cause I will think someone took you. After I did that to her I turned around to talk to your brother and when I turned back she was gone."
Me: "Really....(thinking...at least she does this to others and not just to me in the store)"
Nana: "Her shoes were sitting in the cart all nice and neat like someone was saying..haha I took your kid.(oh way to dramatic mom).. I started frantically running around the area...calling her name..and no response."
Me: (of course I am keeping cool at this point...trying not to laugh..cause it was sort of funny)
Nana: "Then all of the sudden I hear her say "here I am " and she's standing there smiling......So..I spanked her butt.(huge sigh..like it was the worst thing she's ever had to do)"
Me: "Okay mom..that's fine...she prolly deserved it..she knows better."
Nana: "Well I wasn't going to call you but after I did it ..I just kept thinking..oh no I spanked Rose...(me really wanting to laugh at this point)...and I felt bad."
Me: "No it's fine...don't worry...she'll get over it"
Nana: "I hope so..she's really mad at Nana right now...okay well that's all I wanted ..Bye"

So to some of you it just might not be as funny as it was to me. I got off the phone and told Mr. Jo about the conversation and he laughed as well. It was just so priceless...that mom had to spank Rose..being that Rose is her holy child..the child that does no wrong...the child that smiles just right and gets what she wants. Just the thought of the guilt that my mom was feeling for having to spank her (which totally was okay) was hilarious. Sorry mom....you set yourself up for this one. But alas not to worry...Rose is over it..she still loves her Nana...and the world will continue to turn...even though her Nana has probably scared her for life.
Enjoy your coffee!

Mortgage and Insurace....a combo from HELL

So before the story begins I must give you a little background on this saga that has taken over my day....
Back in May...yep that's right MAY...I got a bill for my homeowners insurance (which is odd because I pay for it in my mortgage payment)...so I call my insurance company and ask them why I am being billed for this..cause I know that it's in my escrow account. The woman on the other end replies..."Oh dear..not sure let me look into this for you." A few hours later I get a call back from her.."Okay I figured it out..the insurance company wasn't billing your mortgage company ..So I just faxed over the bill to them." Well...you would think as did I that it was all taken care of...until today that is...

So today in the mail I receive a bill from my insurance company (again!) and I open it to reveal that it is a cancellation notice! Are you flipping kidding me...cancel me..oh no you aren't..I sooo took care of this like three..count them three months ago. I proceed to pick up the phone and call my lovely insurance co. I actually get a very reasonable person on the phone. She says that my file shows that in May it was taken care of ...by such and such girl...but the bill was still never paid. No shit (obviously that's why I am calling you again!)I give her the number to my mortgage and she is going to call and take care of it for me (thank god someone with half a brain..and is willing to help). But of course...because it's me and things like this only happen to me..she calls back about ten minutes later. "All I could get out of your mortgage co. was that you don't have an escrow account and that's why they aren't paying the bill." WHAT! I want to hurt someone so bad at this point....so anyway I had to call the mortgage co. myself and straighten this all out. To be prepared I just check my statement..and that's odd...I have AN ESCROW account balance..DUH...cause I actually have a escrow account ...I know this..the piece of paper actually knows this..why is everyone else so god damn stupid! Okay..back to the story. I called (and of course got the stupidest man alive..who put me on hold on and off for 40 minutes)...after lots of waiting and talking and explaining..he finally figures out that I DO in fact have an escrow account (wow really..you have to be kidding) and it just wasn't put onto my loan properly ..even though I have been paying for it. So he had to do a "work order" (whatever the hell that means) and told me to call back and speak with the insurance dept of the co. in like five days. Okay keep in mind I just got a cancellation notice in the mail and is for Aug 20th which conveniently is FIVE days from now! He claims that they could not process a payment before then because they have to wait for this "work order" to process before anything can be done! Well..lets just hope that when I call back on FRIDAY (and i know that it's not five days from now) someone better make a payment to my insurance co. for me or some heads are going to roll....just for the fact that I haven't had my insurance co paid ..and i have been paying my mortgage co for it! They should be bending over backwards for me..but obviously I'm the idiot and that's not going to happen....Please pray for the person to whom I will be talking with on Friday if this doesn't get done...they are going to need it! Enjoy your coffee...drink an extra cup for me!

You know you've lost it when.....

1. Your day seems to be going fine...and then all of the sudden your mind snaps and you are a mother of three that has NO patience left (aka...pyscho mommy)
2. The first thing that you grab out of the fridge to drink is something that has more alcohol than you usually drink in a week.
3. You are doing the dishes....trying to hurry...and you put a pot in the strainer...that proceeds to knock your nice pretty baking dish to the floor (shattering it to many pieces) and you just shrug your shoulders at your husband and continue to do the dishes.
4. Your oldest daughter is leaving for the night(you think that this alone would make you in a wonderful mood)...you want to make her hair look nice...after telling her to bring you the brush numerous times...she keeps bringing you the pic( knowing all along that she is not bringing you the right thing)...you scream at her like you are an insane person.
5. You are glad to go to the bathroom just for the sake that you can be alone (as long as the kids don't figure out that you are in there and come in and out fifteen times)
6. You realize that you are so hot from moving for the past three hours...you sit down to eat a hot meal..drink a cold alcoholic drink...and you are sweating(even thought it's 74 in the house) and you really just don't care.
7. You are screaming one second...then smiling the next (only because your husband is poking you in the side trying to make you smile).
8. You can't wait to sit down and blog....cause you have to share with the rest of the world how crazy you think you really are. In hopes that someone else is crazier!
Enjoy your coffee ...I have obviously not had enough today!

Ugh the foot saga continues

As previously mentioned I have a torn ligament in my foot (it just sounds retarded to say...especially when I have no real "accident" to cause this such situation). Anyway...today I returned to the doctor to see how the good ole' foot was progressing (keep in mind I have been a semi-good girl keeping the boot on and taking my medicine). As I figured the foot is not better...obviously since it still hurts like hell! I have been wearing the boot about 90% of the time (seriously 90%..hey don't judge it's better than no percent!) and I have been taking my medicine as well...well most of the time anyway, I am an awful pill taker. So the doc explains that my pinkie toe is bent sort of (bunionish I guess) and it's causing a lot of pressure on the ligament attached to that toe....blah blah blah...all I kept hearing was him say that it's not better and i needed a shot...yup you heard right a shot in my foot! Ugh! I know that I have had three kids (natural) so a shot should be no big deal...but it's in my foot...not a lot of fat there (the one and only place) and it's not a small needle or quick process...double ugh! Well the doc says that I will need a series of shots to see if they help the healing process of the ligament. God..if you are listening..let it help..this mama can't handle having surgery to repair my foot and deal with three small children ..to which one can not walk on her own. So...another two weeks..wearing inserts in shoes and back to the doc to see if it's getting better...and I am sure another shot..ugh...my foot tenses just thinking about it.

Sunday...Oh Sunday

It's Sunday....I open my eyes when I hear AnnMarie screaming from the next room...realize that Rose is squished into bed next to me and my throat is sore...I feel the beginning of a crappy day before me. Usually we are up and going...all getting ready for church on Sunday mornings..not this morning. Waking up to my youngest child crying for a bottle is always exhausting not to mention the fact that I feel like a cat dug it's claws into the back of my throat. Great. Just great. So Mr. Jo has to be at church early this morning (of course..it's seems he's always there early leaving me to fend for myself with three small children)...and by the time that I have gotten up he is already dressed and looks ready to conquer the world. Ugh...that site just makes me feel even worse. I make my way downstairs to feed AnnMarie...Robert wakes up as well...whinning of course...and Rose is not to far to follow. Mr. Jo looks at me and says...you don't look like you feel very good (wow..good one Mr. Holmes). "Why don't all of you just stay home today and relax," he says. (Side note that the kids weren't feeling well either..I believe this is all thanks to my little brother who has pawned his sickness onto my family...) I finished feeding AnnMarie...Mr. Jo leaves...I think - lets all go into mommy's bed and veg out for the morning..watch cartoons...and to my surprise ...they actually cooperated with my plan..this plan of course was to only please myself and no one else. Soooo...we did absolutely nothing all morning. Robert and AnnMarie ended up taking nice long naps..and it was actually sort of relaxing (which I was totally not expecting...I expected the kids to be screaming..wanting everything possible..making me actually take care of them..I mean go figure). I still am feeling like crap when Mr. Jo arrived home but decided to go downstairs and be human for a few hours. By human I mean sit on the couch ...watch tv..and have my husband wait on me ;) The phone rings and a good friend of mine is on the line...she is calling to tell me she has some hand me down dance shoes for Rose...(yes I totally didn't want to buy any..I love getting hand me downs) and she just happens to mention that she has a pool that is trying to get rid of and want to give it to us. Yes I said it right..give it to us...I mean really could these people be any more wonderful. It's been sooo freakin' hot here in Illinois and a POOL would just make my year(let me just clarify this is no kiddie pool..this is one of those new craze blow up blue pools..adult size)! Yes! So Mr. Jo hops into the car and goes to retrieve the pool. As we speak he is putting it up! Hooray for us...a new cooling tactic at our house. So pretty much to recap the day... started out crappy...sore throat...lazy morning...doing nothing...ended...getting a pool...not to mention a FREE pool! I just have to apologize for this blog being about absolutely nothing(even though I really shouldn't apologize because obviously you love me or you wouldn't be reading this)...but I guess the sore throat is affecting my brain and I didn't have anything better to write about! Enjoy your coffee today..tomorrows gonna be a HOT one! (but i'll be in my new pool!)

Oh the water bill....but the car benefits!

So how stupid can one woman be you may ask? Well...pretty damn stupid in my case (and Mr. Jo I know you are totally backing me up on that statement). I never and I say NEVER remember to pay my water bill on time. I even get the disconnection notice in the mail and think okay I have to the (insert date here) to get it paid before they shut it off. Let me give you a little background first. We live in a hodunk town in Illinois...it's small and the city people are pissy. They give you like 20 days after it's due to pay and then they shut you off. Not to mention if it's shut off they charge you a $25 additional fee to come turn it back on. (by on I mean walk there lazy asses to my front yard and turn a flipping screw..that is SO not worth $25) Now when they send the water bill I always pay attention...but it's like that little stubbie lookin thing and I never remember to pay it...I guess I should be a good wife like my neighbor friend and mail it in..but in such a small town I never even thought of it. I just think oh it's easy enough to just go and drop it off...well wrongo idiot...I obviously failed in that thought process. Mr. Jo is constantly yelling at me to remember the water bill...and of course I listen to him...not like I would ignore him (snicker). Also it's not like we don't have the money to pay it...I just never remember..which for me is odd because except for this one thing..I have an awesome memory (go me!)...so anyway...today I am going to rinse AnnMaries bottle out.. turn on the water ...and NADA...ugh..not again I think. Funny thing is I go to my bill basket and look for the shut off notice..and duh..I didn't even open it yet! I mean really...I have only myself to blame. At this point in the morning I not dressed or are the kids...well I throw on clothes enough to look presentable to go in somewhere public..the kids are fine..they just sit in the car. I pay the bill PLUS the outrageous $25 charge..and I am on my way...I guess the upside is that I was already out...so I thought what the hey..I am going to go clean the car...I may have forgotten the water bill..but my kidmobile definitely benefited! Enjoy your coffee! (but remember to pay the water bill or it's hard to make the coffee)

Showering with new discoveries....

So how many of you mom's out there let your little ones shower or bathe with you? And for those of you that are saying no weirdo right now...oh please you know that you are lying. My oldest daughter...Rose...she wasn't home for bath time last night...so when I was almost done in the shower I called for her to come in so I could give her a quick cleaning. She has been quite the little question girl lately..so I figured I was in for it...She gets in....and of course you realize that she's not that tall yet...so she's pretty much eye level or just above...my "v".

Rose: "mommy why do you have hair ..there...?"
Me: "cause that's what mommies have"...you will get hair when you are bigger too"
Rose: "ummm no ...no I won't that's gross"
Me: " well you will but not to you are much bigger like mommy"
Rose: "okay"

And on with the shower we go...I wash her hair....then she is playing while I finish up with my shower duties..I turn around to wash her body....

Rose: "I like your pee-pee mommy..."
Me: "ummmmm ...thanks Rose" ( all the while thinking..did she just say that she liked my pee pee)

Now we quickly wash her body...and out mommy goes....if she is going to keep analyzing my pee pee (as she says) then ..maybe showers with mommy are officially over! ;)
Enjoy your coffee!

My new competition

So I guess I should tell you all that Mr. Jo has started to blog. I think he was feeling left out or something...or like he "being the man of the house" needed to give me a run for my money on the blogging thing(whatever). I cannot guarantee that he will be as funny as me (he will try but I am just too freakin hilarious to compete with)...I cannot guarantee that you will like him (but if you like me you will like him it's inevitable)...I cannot guarantee that he will give you any useful information (but rather lots and lots of useless information)...but I CAN guarantee that he will try his hardest to make you laugh ...cry...sigh..and smile...he's a real charmer. So if you get a few minutes go on over and check him out at Straight From the Men's Room. I should however warn you on a few useless facts about him....(ah hummmm....)

1. He is a very handsome man (all right girls keep your hands to yourself he's mine)
2. He's very conscious of his weight even though he doesn't act like it
3. He loves sweet tea...and I mean loves..he would kill for it
4. Daddy is his name but having fun is his game (lol..i know corny but true)
5. He always puts his boots on in the morning and then proceeds to tramp all over the house before work to spread mud on my nicely swept floors. ( I mean really..come on)
6.He has the best smile I have ever seen
7. He has the attention span of a 2 year old (and I have one two year old..so as you can imagine..this is very annoying)
8. He has a wonderful emotional side (I know some of you are thinking..how girly..but it's so sincere and loving...great quality for husband and father)
9. He always has to put his feet up when on the computer (always looks so damn uncomfortable)
10. He is sooo much better at doing laundry than me..(and believe me girls i love it!)

Well...some useless info about Mr. Jo...I am sure you will all learn to love him as I do..(well okay not exactly as I do but you get the picture) Enjoy your coffee!

Many Thanks

To all of you that have been compassionate towards my family and sister in these past days a big thank you. It's always a great feeling to know that there are so many people out there that love us. We love all of you back as well. Today was our final good bye day...and it wasn't easy. Not that I imagined that it would be ....but I guess I didn't fully prepare myself for what was to come. I have never seen anything like it before and I hope that for a very long time I never have to again. My sister is sooo strong. She is going to be such a better woman because of all of this. God bless all of you that donated to her help fund for medical bills and for burial expenses. It's so peaceful knowing that Dakota is in heaven with God....that we said good bye and God was saying hello. Until we meet him again..he's in a better place..someday we will be to. Love and kisses. Enjoy your coffee today...and spike it a little..I know I will ;)

If you would still like to donate please go here :

Auntie...in my heart forever and always

It is with great sadness and heartbreak that I have to tell my blogging friends that I have lost my nephew. Little Dakota I told you about only weeks ago has lost his battle with his illness. He passed on Friday, August 3 around 8:44pm in my sister's arms. He was just four weeks old. It just breaks my heart that this little life could not last...but I know that he is in such a better place now...a place free of pain...and sadness..a place were he can be with our Heavenly Father. The question of why always comes up with a life yet so young...be we have to be strong and know that our faith will have to guide us to the right answers. No mother deserves this kind of tragedy to happen but Dakota's Father was calling him home. He was such a fighter straight from the beginning and right up to the end. Luckily enough my sister was able to detach him from all wires and contraptions to hold him free in her arms as he passed. I was there with her and the site was so extremely hard to take. Having three small children of my own made it hit so close to home...my little AnnMarie only being only 5 months. I was strong for my sister but leaving the room I collapsed into my husband's arm. I feel such sadness for my sis....so strong though I know she will pull through this and come out on the other side a stronger woman. This little guy did such magical work when he was here. He definitely brought my sister and I closer together..which I will be forever grateful for....he also made his mommy a more mature woman. I can only imagine the pain and suffering she is feeling right now...and I have faith that she will move on with great hope for the future and live a wonderful life with Dakota's presence all around her. He will be a baby forever in our hearts and in heaven. My sister and I have great love knowing that little Dakota is in heaven with our Grams...she was a special grandma to us and we know that she will take great care of him. One day we will be able to all be together again. Rest in peace my littlest nephew and I will be your auntie in my heart forever and always. I love you Dakota. God bless!

P.S. Check out Serendipity Mine's blog ..she has so generously set up a donation for Dakota's mom.

What on earth were they thinking?!

Sooo...searching the internet lately for me has been very interesting. I have been trying hard to do some research for my new baby website...and I have come across some very...and I mean very interesting items. Ohhhh but I was so not prepared for this one. I found a site with matching mom and baby clothes! Oh yes that's what I said....who on earth would wear these (the sad thing is obviously someone if they have a site). The website is Royalty Baby.com. It's flippin hilarous. I guess that some of them aren't so bad. But I am just not the type of person that would not buy any of these. It must take a real special person to be able to wear those clothes. Enjoy your coffee!

Baby question:
What is your best baby room organizing tip?

Ahhhhh the foot......

Well if you didn't know before...then you know now...I am irritated! You got it..irritated...so incredibly frustrated that I could scream. Not that anyone would care about my scream..or respond...but at least I think that the scream would make me feel somewhat better. I have had this pain in my foot for about three weeks now...I know what you are thinking three weeks and you just went to the doctor..what are you my mom. Geez. Well when I was up staying with my sister in the hospital I felt it starting to hurt. It kind of felt like a big ole' bruise on the side of my foot. I think the myself...did I fall...did I walk funny....did I twist it...did I do anything humanly possible that would have given me this crappy ass feeling in my foot. Ummm...no! So I just conquered on in the life of me...and tried to ignore it. Although instead of the feeling going away..it justs keeps getting worse. I am determined that it is just going to magically get better...so i pretend it's not there. Then just this past week...it really starts to hurt. The hurt where when walking I am in pain....when standing I am in pain...and the foot starts to swell occasionally. Ugh...I guess that maybe I should go to the doctor. I keep thinking..what if he puts me on crutches...I Can't do crutches. I mean come one...if you are a previous reader ..you know that I am a pleasantly plump girl..and plump girls don't do crutches. Pluse I have three kids...and one of them can't walk on her own..how was I going to take care of her. Well anyway...I decided to ask my friend (who just happens to work at a foot doctor) what she thinks. She says that it could be a fracture because where I was having the pain is easily fractured...OH freakin great! Well...she talked me into it...and I made an appointment...well..actually..she called me and said..I have one apt left at 3:30..do you want it...but I said yes (against my will of course). Go to the doctor and we says..."well..there's no fracture...but I think that you have torn your ligament that hold your last two toes together." Huh!? How on earth did I managed to do that! Well...actually I have no idea how I did that..and that's what pisses me off even more! So my friend (the dr.'s helper) is giving me walking boot...yep that's right people it's a walking boot...not stylish....not hip...not fun in any manner or form. OH and let me add that "my friend" is having a freakin hay day putting this boot on me....real funny friend...real funny. So off I go until two weeks ..with my boot...walking like an idiot...on with my life. Let's hope that the boot does it's job...cause I don't want the worse case to happen...surgery...that I just can't handle...So I WILL wear the boot like a good girl....even though I really think it sucks. Try and enjoy your coffee...I know mine is going to be spoiled for a while!

Baby Question: What is the best pregnancy book?

Pretty Woman OR Lord of the Rings?

Mr. Jo and I had a long car ride tonight...and the conversation of movies came up. We obviously don't have anything better to talk about since we had to result to this....but anyway.....movies....what is your preference feel good movies or sci-fi/drama movies? As you can imagine Mr. Jo and I had different takes on our answers. He was all about the Lord of the Rings...Harry Potter..Star Wars crap...and I was like ..oh no...The Wedding Planner....Pretty Woman....Jerry Maguire love fests. I guess as a girl I just prefer the movies that make you get all those little butterflies in your stomach when you watch them. Of course Mr. Jo wouldn't admit that he gets butterflies from watching "Pretty Woman" but I am sure that he does...I mean come on who doesn't. He just doesn't understand how I can not like Star Wars or Lord of the Rings...ick..I mean why on earth would I...can we say boring. I must admit I have watched a couple of the Harry Potter movies and they aren't that bad...but just not my take. I guess that I figure life is crazy enough..the world has enough drama...and fighting...and messes...that why would I want to watch a movie like that...I want....romance..and love...and whitty humor...and gust busting laughs..you know the type. We both have different tastes for sure...although I will say that Mr. Jo is usually a good sport and will watch almost any of my feel good movies with me (whether he stays awake through them is another thing). I should be a little more open to his type of sci-fi..dramatic type of movies...I just find myself bored and wandering off into my own thoughts. They have deep story lines....maybe my little girly brain just can't follow them....oh who am i kidding...of course that's not it (i am one smart chick)....it must just be that i'm not a dork! (no offense to those of you who enjoy these type of movies). So what's your take....the feel good movie or the sci-fi/drama movies? Which side do you fall on....ponder your thoughts as you enjoy your coffee!


Baby Question : What was the best part of your baby shower...or what is the best thing at any baby shower that you have attended?

Good find

Okay soooo not really that interesting in the life of me today. My kids were crabby as hell..my husband was not home..and I cleaned all day. AND get this no one paid me for it...assholes! Well anyway I did find a little time today to have some computer time between cleaning, lunch, spit ups, crying, naps, tantrums, and fighting...to find this wonderful site for all of you..I know I really am too kind! The site is called BabiesnBellies.com. Not really sure who it will pertain to but it's a maternity website..with some fun additions.

Make sure to check out these dad shirts they have..they are adorble..the site is just very shi shi looking...even if you aren't pregnant take a look..they could be some very cute gift ideas as well! Enjoy your coffee!

Baby Question: What do you wish someone would have done for you while you were pregnant or just after you had your baby?

Alone and lovin it!

So today...I started a job. BUT it's one of those jobs were I control the work flow...I am my own boss...I decide the pay...I ..me and only me..make all the rules! That's right I became a cleaning lady!...LOL it's funny just saying that. I clean other people's houses. Well okay I clean one other persons house. Today was the first day that I cleaned...and it was definitely interesting...a tad bit weird...a little okay....and alot of work. You never really realize how big other houses are until you have to clean them. Actually as I was leaving my house this morning I had to laugh...I thought .....my house isn't even clean and I am going to clean another house..but hey..that's the kind of action you get when someone is willing to pay you for cleaning. But as Mr. Jo reminded me this evening he "pays" me..yeah right...Mr. Jo ...you are soooo not funny! Back to the cleaning...it was actually a relaxing morning. Which is weird to say when you are cleaning...(unless you are some sort of freak...which I am absolutely not!). I had four hours to myself...no kids screaming...nobody needing help wiping their butt...no sippy cups to fill...not one baby to hold and bounce...it was a wonderful experience. Yet I was cleaning..it was hard work....but to be free from everyday life...to be ALONE (which is rare in this house) ..and on top of it..having someone pay me to do it..amen sisters! I am glad that I made the executive decision to start cleaning it looks as though it is going to benefit me in several ways. Good for my sanity and good for my checkbook! (Just a side note for those of you that may be thinking of my previous blogs...no ..no...I did not stick my hand in their toilet to clean them..I used a brush) Anyone out there contemplating starting a cleaning business..I say thumbs up all the way! Enjoy your coffee!


Baby Question :(if confused what this is refer to past blog)
What is the best solution for diaper rash?

Wild Wacky Wednesday Adventure

Today just kept getting better as the day went on. Well better I guess is not the correct term...interesting would be more along the right line. The day starts off with a trip to the dr with my littlest one AnnMarie for her 4 month check up....and all you mothers out there know what joy that was...four shots and awfuls screams of horror from her. The nurse says "keep in mind she might run a fever...be cranky...and have sore legs." Gee thanks really I've had two other kids...I know! But this one...oohhh wasn't she quite the little spitfire today...cranky does not even describe what she ended up being. Maybe I should include that I went with my mom after the dr apt up to Chicago to see my sister and my nephew (who is in the hopsital). So thinking that I would spend time with my sister today and get her away from the hospital to relax...boy was my projection of the day completely off. We started off by going to the Wizard of Oz park to let the kids play and have a picnic...to enjoy the scenery and relax ...yeah right I should have expected...Robert getting stuck on the slide hanging from his arm...the two oldest kids running away...AnnMarie screaming and pooping every chance she got...so much for a peaceful afternoon. So my sister decides that we should go back to where she is staying to let the kids play and cool off (cause it was so damn hot out today). After getting there...AnnMarie turns into physco baby and starts screaming for no reason...she's not hungry...but I make her a bottle anyway...she enjoys a few sips..screams..sips..scream..sips ...screams..you get the picture..It was awful. The I finally get her to calm down....and I see Robert fall...and start screaming..I look over and his mouth was FULL of blood...(omg..I of course think the worst)...practically throw the baby to my sister and run to the bathroom to check the situation. End result...it was he punctured his bottom lip with his upper teeth causing major blood everywhere for a small injury ( that happen to include a big fat lip). We continue on with our relaxing afternoon (you aren't paying attention if you actually think this was relaxing) ....Robert seems tired...and looks exhausted all the sudden...he falls asleep on the playroom floor. When he awakes...he looks really bad...eyes glassy...pale...not his super kid self....I start to worry....we decide we better leave after feeling his forehead and he's burnin up! But of course not as soon as I can pick up him he pukes exercist style all down and behind my back ( I know ...makes me throw up a little in my mouth just reliving it) We go back to the hospital to get Mom (aka Nana) and head for the parking garage...while waiting for the car...he loses his lunch again ....and again...ugh...while trying to help him and get everyone in the car ..then we start to drive (keep in mind we are leaving chicago at rush hourish and having a sick kid in the car) we make it quite a ways before ..having to pull over and cause he's puking everywhere....(shiver...) clean that up..and off to home we go....so far no more puking....but there's a long night ahead of us....god help me!

Other wacky wednesday happenings:
1. While driving all front dash electric goes off...check engine light comes on.. complete panic
2. Big blister on my thumb from pulling around two kids in wagon
3. Foot throbbing from some pain...not sure the cause...feels like my foot is going to fall off
4. Trunk on van won't open. (had to pull stroller and wagon out the side door....and return them the same way)
5. Had to wear sister's tie dyed crazy shirt..cause beloved son throws up all over mine!

Enjoy your wacky Wednesday coffee!

Baby Question: What baby product do you hate?