Year End Wrap-Up

What a year it has been! This time last year, we were struggling to find an affordable daycare situation. With the hours we were working, a typical daycare was out of the question. I had found a few ladies to watch Alice, but we were paying $100 a day. Yes, really! I finally found a family friend, Jennifer, and she agreed to watch her for $50. Still not great, but WAY better. At least, I wasn't breaking the bank to work. The original plan was to go back for my 30 days. However, I found out they were going to lay us off before the end of the year, so Sean and I agreed I should stick it out.

We got pregnant the very end of June. I tested July 7, because I had the same early symptoms that I had with Alice. My brother and SIL had their first child July 9, so I "officially" became an aunt that day! Jennifer moved the end of July, and that made my already insane commute, absolutely ridiculous! Three hours to more than four or five is just too much, so I jokingly told my sister she should come home to help out. She did! The first day she was to start watching Alice, we were in a car accident on the way to the house. Some young kid rear-ended us on a state road. We were stopped completely and getting ready to turn, but he wasn't paying attention. Thankfully, no one was seriously injured. I am still in PT due to lower back injuries (never did get an X-ray due to the pregnancy).

My last day of work was September 2, and I couldn't be happier with being able to spend each day with Alice. Sure, there are days I REALLY want a break, but this is the most fulfilling job ever! I'm still struggling with the unemployment office and the supplemental benefit company that pays out my severance. Hopefully that will be remedied in the next month. Getting 1/3 of what I should be getting really stinks, but that is a post of it's own. Fingers crossed that everything gets worked out soon!

Alice and I went out to see my sister in Boston in early-mid November. I consider myself a road-trip queen after that drive with just me and her (and baby in my belly!). We had a blast! I wish I could have stayed a little longer, but all of my appointments did not allow that. I drove straight through on the way home (16 1/2 hour drive), so I feel I can do anything now *wink*.

The holidays were wonderful! We got to see everyone in the family between Thanksgiving and Christmas, so that was wonderful! We have been extremely blessed this year. We have our health, family and friends, and our ever growing love for each other! I cannot wait to see what 2011 brings! I know the baby will be here in the next two and a half months (give or take), and I'm so excited to meet him!

I hope that 2011 in an extremely happy, healthy, and blessed year for all of you and your families! I also hope that our friendship will continue to grow!

The Tales of Alice

I was going to post Christmas pictures, but when I save them they are all blurry. And the album is private, so I can't link them. So I'll try to figure out something. In the meantime, I will entertain you with tales of Alice.

Alice has been eating non-stop today. She had a cinnamon waffle, sausage patty, and apple for breakfast. She then wanted a bagel, so I gave her half of a cinnamon raisin bagel. She saw me put cream cheese on my bagel (onion with onion and chive cream cheese-I'm pregnant; it sounds good for breakfast). She wanted some cream cheese, so I put a bit on a plate. She proceeded to dip her bagel in it. Yuck! After her nap, I fixed her a snack of crackers and turkey. She proceeded to move a chair in the kitchen, so she could get the apple bread. And then she opened the fridge and got the ketchup out and poured some on the apple bread (I was in the bathroom at the time). Nauseating! What a refined palate my child has! At least she isn't picky.

She only wanted her Daddy when she got up from her nap. For ten minutes, she kept looking and calling him. I finally convinced her that he wasn't here.

Alice loves her table and chairs that Santa got her. So much, that she REFUSES to sit in her high chair anymore. I don't gave a problem with that, but I do have a problem with the freedom that comes with that dining locale. She gets up, climbs on the table, and pretty much prefers to play during mealtimes. This could be why she is constantly eating outside mealtimes.

I also need to purchase some kiddie dishes. Before I would just put the food on her tray, but I don't want to do that with the table. The few dishes I have put down, she has done everything possible to try to break them. Knock on wood, but none are broken yet. The throwing and slamming against the mirror may do the trick, if this keeps up. In the meantime, I will be using plastic for all mealtimes.

My little monkey continues to climb everywhere and on everything. She has now managed to climb up or on everything in the house...except the kitchen counters. See...even the tv stand.

A few new words out of her mouth: G-wen, and Mo-mew. That would be Gretchen and Mortimer, the kitties. There is no more yelling "kee kee". They have names, and she knows who is who now.

Speaking of the cats, they climb everywhere too. Gretchen has a sweet tooth, apparently, as she gets in the Halloween candy. She carries it down and eventually leaves it somewhere...where Alice finds it and starts eating the sucker (candy of choice for Gretchen)-after taking the wrapper off, thank goodness.

Return To Normalcy

Well almost. Sean is off of construction for awhile. Not really sure how long that will be, but I'm hoping not too long because of the financial impact that will have. I enjoy having him around, and so does Alice. They have been best buds the past few days...which is abnormal. Normally, she doesn't want much to do with him.

Sean also has been off of UPS the past couple of nights, due to being sick. He says he is feeling better now. I'm just hoping no one else gets it...whatever "it" is. I'd guess flu. Alice should be fine, or at least not have a bad round of it, as she got her flu shot. I have not gotten one yet. I know, I know. I need to get one...especially since I'm pregnant.

Oh and I am "officially" in the third trimester. I believe I am 28 weeks (or 29 per ob) and a couple of days. I now start going every two weeks. Time is flying! I had my sister take a belly pic when she was here. I don't have it currently, otherwise I'd post it. I also think I will have to go back to PT twice a week. Today was by far my most painful and difficult session. My left SI joint was sticking, and sciatica in my right leg... and every time we tried to move me to work on something, it would irritate my pubic bone or the other annoyances. Hopefully this will all get better shortly after the baby is born.

Kidnap

I know you are wondering if I went and kidnapped my sister yesterday. No, I did not. I did go pick her up about 10 this morning and returned her a little before 2. No, that isn't that much time but we had breakfast, Starbucks, and played with Alice.

Alice woke up early this morning...a certain mommy had gotten out of the bed, and it seems my child is a bit Santa like. She knows when I am sleeping and she knows when I'm awake. She fell asleep in her Aunt Lindsay's arms. It was too sweet! I then subjected my sister to looking at a few of the cute baby clothes I had bought.

We took Lindsay back to Scrooge's house. I got out to say goodbye and took Alice out too. Alice kept screaming and crying when I would take her from Lindsay and put her in the car seat. I thought she didn't want to be in the car, so I would take her out. But she didn't want me...she wanted Lindsay. Of course this made Lindsay start crying, and me as well. So all three of us were hugging and crying in the driveway. We finally said goodbye and left.

Alice "drew" Lindsay a picture this evening, and I used that as a good excuse to go back to see her for an hour. Alice was all over her Lindsay again. And we had a repeat of earlier in the day when we left.

I can honestly say that every time we part, it never gets easier. And now that Alice gets caught up in that, it really makes it more difficult. It breaks my heart to see her upset like that. I swear she said, "don't go" to Lindsay. I'm just hoping that she will move back here soon. I don't know how many more "don't go's" any of us can take.

Christmas Wrap-Up and Bah-Humbugs

Christmas was so wonderful this year! Alice doesn't really "get" Santa, but she does understand toys. I was up very late Christmas morning getting things ready and set up.

We slept in until almost 10, which was really nice. Alice immediately saw her table and chairs from Santa and sat down. She hardly moved from there for the next half hour or so. I got started on our annual Christmas brunch of monkey bread. Sean made sausage, and my Dad (whom I wasn't sure would come) and sister came over to eat. We then put on Christmas Vacation and watched Alice open presents. She was a bit timid at first, probably because I spent the past day or two telling her to leave the wrapped presents alone. Apparently, she had too many gifts because she got tired of opening stuff and only wanted to play with her phone that Lindsay got her (it was a whole purse, keys, phone, accessories thing). So we helped her a bit in opening the last few presents. She loves all of her toys. The phone is a big hit, along with the bakeware and pots/utensils, cleaning stuff, and her table. She has started climbing on to the table *sigh*. I didn't take any pictures, as I can't find my camera, but Lindsay did and I will "steal" them from her later to show you guys.

We went to my brother's for Christmas dinner. It was very lovely. The food was awesome, per usual. Alice actually ate three deviled eggs (well the filling) this time. Last time, she wouldn't touch them. We then opened presents. Alice had the whole thing down, and did awesome. She got a new bath toy, frog blanket, and magnetic letters and numbers (yay!). The baby even got some stuff from my brother and SIL.

Alice slept on the way home (a little more than an hour) and was up until well after 1 this morning. Sean let me sleep in today...I didn't get up until about 11. I took a muscle relaxer and pain pill last night as I was hurting very badly and could barely move. I'm thinking I need to buy a recliner to sleep in at night. It is getting very difficult to get comfortable in bed and also to get out of bed.

I was hoping my sister would be able come up and stay the night with us tonight. She has been in town since Tuesday evening, and leaves early Tuesday morning. I have seen her for about 5 hours total. Apparently, our father is a total Scrooge. He complains about not having any "alone" time with her, but then he goes to a Christmas Eve party and drinks with "friends" and then goes to spend the day today with other friends to watch the Colts game. Meanwhile, leaving her alone but with orders that "she has to stay the night there, and if your brother or sister want to hang out they need to come here". I have no qualms with going there, but I was really hoping she would be able to come up and stay a night/day with us, I was hoping to go outside and play in the snow with Alice. I am just so upset and angry with my dad. He doesn't have his priorities right, and he is also upsetting my sister and me. I mean is she on house arrest? Is this some kind of conspiracy that my brother and father cooked up to keep her from spending time with us? Sorry...I had to get this out before I call and tell him how I feel. I'm not sure whether I feel like crying and punching something. And I really don't like that I'm feeling like this at all after Christmas. Bah humbug!

What A Day

I had my 28 week appointment and glucose tolerance test this morning. Fun stuff! I don't remember feeling that sleepy last time. I thought I was going to fall asleep driving there (15 minutes after taking it!). Nor do I remember being that hungry (I didn't eat beforehand this time-no time) or feeling sick to my stomach. The nurse (whom is new and I wasn't sure I liked her) brought me crackers and water right after drawing my blood. So sweet! I also don't know why they need 3-4 vials of blood to do a glucose test?! Hoping I pass and don't have to do the three hour!

I then raced home and got Alice. Sean didn't have to work, so he fed her breakfast and gave her a bath. He was getting her dressed when I walked in the door. Then Alice and I drove up to northern Indiana to do Christmas with her (ex) stepmom, sisters, step-sisters, aunts, uncles, and all of their families. What a blast! ALL of the cousins (on that side of his dad/stepmom's side) were there! Eloise, Marielle, Phoebe, Lilly, Sylvie, Olivia, Paxton, and Alice! How exciting to see all of them together. And then the opening of the presents. Wow! Alice took forever to open her presents, but was super excited about the Little People doll house that she got from Sylvie (the kids draw names and buy for each other-that way we aren't going broke getting each kid a gift) and the book and puzzle from Yia Yia (Sean's stepmom). Then we hung out and played for awhile and headed home.

We are going back up tomorrow for Christmas at his Aunt Oly's with a lot of the same people. I am in the process of making a chocolate mousse torte for dessert. Seriously, you guys have to try this if you like (especially love) chocolate!

And here it is almost 11 pm and I just remembered we haven't eaten dinner. I threw a pizza in and we will eat in a few minutes. And yes, Alice is still up. She slept the whole way home (a little over two hours) so she is still up.

Frustrations

I had a whole other post in mind for today, but that can wait. I took Alice to get her booster of her flu shot today. I called earlier in the day to see if the doctor could check her out (she was to see the nurse), but I got their answering service so I left a message. She has been tugging at her ear and I wanted to make sure it wasn't an ear infection. She is getting ready to cut more teeth, so that is probably what it is, but I wanted her ears checked just in case. Why make her suffer until Monday? (I know I could find an immediate care if need be)

Well we never got a call back (apparently I will get a call tomorrow!). We showed up for her appointment and I told the receptionist what was going on. Her response, "We won't be able to do that today, as she is to see the nurse and only the doctor can do that and we don't have any appointments left for today. I can get you in tomorrow." Okay. Fair enough...though I did call and request her doctor to look at her. I explained that we couldn't come in tomorrow as I had an appointment and we had to leave town immediately afterwards, but I'd keep an eye on it and we could come in next week if need be. She proceeded to give me evil looks like I'm some bad parent. Alice ran off and played until we were called a couple of minutes later. The nurse had to help get her out of the play house, as she kept running out of my reach. We proceed to the room and get her shot. I asked the nurse about a few questions/concerns. We proceed to leave when I remember our co-pay. I go to pay and the guy (who schedules visits-he isn't the receptionist) is shocked that we have a co-pay on nurse visits. Umm, yes. They like to nickel and dime us. We always get a bill after seeing the nurse! So I'm paying (and juggling Alice between arms) and the receptionist makes some snide comment about "your mommy isn't letting you run everywhere today". To which I said something about not being able to hold her for long periods of time. You know having back problems, spd, sciatica, and being pretty pregnant and all. And yes, sometimes she does run everywhere, but I always follow her and grab her (when she gets away from me).

So I'm irritated with the receptionist mostly. She is rude, appears to not like children OR adults, and never smiles. Heck, I'm not sure she even looks at people...though apparently she remembers me and my "bad-ass" child whom I let do whatever she wants, when she wants, wherever we are (I don't). And the $10 co-pay doesn't irritate me, but you couldn't get a doctor to take 10 seconds to peek at my daughter's ears? Really? I saw ALL rooms open and no other patients in the place, so don't give me some BS story about having no openings. So now I'm contemplating finding another pediatrician, just because of this rude lady (who appears to have sandpaper on her toilet seat). Which is a shame because I do like her pediatrician. Unfortunately, I see more of the support staff than the doctor.

What do you think? Am I over-reacting (you know those pregnancy hormones obscure things sometimes-you can tell me if you think I am. I won't get mad *wink*)?

16 Months

Alice turned 16 months yesterday. I should have posted this yesterday, but better a day late than not at all (like the past few months-bad mama!). What a month we have had!

This past month:

•Alice has gone from four teeth to ELEVEN! This has been over the past six weeks, but still. All eight front teeth and three molars. I think some more will be coming through shortly.

•Alice has really started talking and babbling. She has been saying quite a few words for awhile now, but ever since I have been home with her she has been really quiet. This past month, she turned that around. Some new words this month: GO! NO (usually to the kitties), Dye (bye- though it is getting closer to a b sound each time), Hi, ba (bath or banana depending upon what time of day/location), tow (towel), and caan (candy/cookie- can you tell she has gotten her fill of Christmas goodies?)

•She has started blowing kisses. Just the cutest thing ever!

•She will pat/rub your back if you cough or choke. She will also hit her belly if she is "choking".

•Her fascination with books has really hit a new level. This pleases me immensely. She will sit and "read" them on her own and actually sit and let you read to her also!

•She is not a picky eater, though hasn't been very fond of most vegetables except carrots. This past month, she has been "over" carrots (thank goodness! I was so sick of them!) and has been loving broccoli, peas, and green beans. Though still not a fan of asparagus or Brussels sprouts, I'm sure that will eventually change. I mean who doesn't love "baby cabbages"?!

•She is climbing everywhere and everything! She moves chairs to assist her with this, if need be.

•We got to play in the snow for the first time. I don't think she is a fan of the coldness of the snow, as she screams and has a pained look on her face when it touches her skin or Marty!

•She is extremely clever. Whether it be moving chairs (see above) or maneuvering her body under the gate to get to the cat stuff; not much can deter this little lady! See the picture below. I had to lower the baby gate to the bathroom because she was sliding under it...she couldn't get her head through after I lowered the gate. Haha!

Unexpected Plans and Badness

Sean forgot quite a few things for work today. Snow boots, tool belt, and his phone. He remembered all of the goodie boxes (made snickerdoodles, sugar cookies, crack cookies, chocolate and vanilla dipped pretzels, turtles, an peanut butter chocolate candies - which i slaved over all afternoon/evening yesterday) for the guys though! So Alice and I went to meet him and drop his things off. We got there shortly before their lunch, so we hung around and ate with Daddy and a few of his co-workers. I hadn't showered yet, so I felt like a bum, but oh well. It was nice to have some time with Daddy.

Badness...where do I begin? Alice STOLE a few snickerdoodles last night when I was making the goodie boxes. Lately, she has been climbing on and between the couches. Tonight she been climbing into a box that is on an end table. Frustrating. This child does not listen. She also has no fear. I think it may be time to introduce time-outs.

Santa!

So we went to the Legion to see Santa. They had hot dogs, chips, and cookies for the kids. Alice liked the bun and chips mostly. Then we got in line and sat on Santa's lap. This years picture is awful. I got better pictures on my phone. I can't believe I paid for the picture! Oh well.

So here is last years picture, which you didn't get to see.

And this years...I cropped it a lot. Most of the picture is to the left and of the tree. Gee, thanks! I could have taken a picture of a tree for free. To top it off, even Santa is not looking at the camera. Alice looks like she is about to cry, which is redeeming.

And then the two pictures I was able to snap.

Sorry that last one is blurry. Someone was trying to escape from Santa.

And another picture I managed, before she tore the tulle skirt in her dress (she kept climbing up on this platform and every time she stood up, she'd catch the bottom of her dress). Maybe I can fix it before Christmas.

Ahh!

Things have gone much more smoothly today. Perhaps that is because Sean is here to help wrangle...er, help with Alice. I am hoping to get some cleaning done. This is all dependent upon Sean picking things up. It is getting increasingly difficult to bend down to get things. Bending down to pick up things that aren't ALL the way to the floor (i.e. Alice) is still doable. I have NO problem sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, or doing dishes (unfortunately). I just need someone to pick up the crap the cats and Alice have strewn everywhere.

My dad called me a bit ago, to tell me that Santa will be at the Legion tomorrow. I'm glad because I was beginning to fret about the Santa picture. So we will be heading up there for hot dogs (for the kids), libations (for the Daddy and Granddaddy), and the Colts game (at least I can enjoy this *wink*-unless Peyton forgets what team he plays for again!). So hopefully I will have a wonderful picture for you all tomorrow...along with my belly pic. Geez, where am I at now? 27 or 28 weeks, I think.

Friday Night Leftovers (The I Couldn't Make This Up If I Wanted To Version)

I don't know if anyone noticed, but I have been trying to post more regularly. Hopefully, I can keep this up!

And now for leftovers.

•I had mentioned that I made apple bread yesterday. It is the worst apple bread I have ever made. Seriously! I didn't have enough oil, so I added more flax seed than I usually do. And it is pretty dry. No worries...if we don't eat it all, the chickens will be happy to do so.

•Last night Alice and I did our usual bath/shower. We both get in and I shower, and wash her. Then I get out and fill the tub a little to let her play, while I get pajamas on and dry my hair.

•While I was drying my hair, Mortimer hopped on the edge of the tub, like usual. This time, Alice hugged/pulled him in the tub. He got soaking wet and looked like a drowned rat. Then he proceeded to get the bathroom floor and family room floor soaking wet! I would have been irritated if it wouldn't have been for the fact that it was hilarious!

•So I finish drying my hair, and grab my towel and start mopping up the floor in the bathroom. Meanwhile, Alice keeps gagging herself with her fingers (and a toy). I told her to stop, but no sooner had I said it, she threw up in the tub! Nice!

•So I drain the tub, put a little more water in and wash her again. I let her play for a few more minutes and then start draining the tub, telling her that she has to get out when the water is gone (this helps with no tantrums). I grab her towel, lift her out and go to wrap her up in the towel. She took off running, and wiped out just outside the bathroom (I hadn't mopped that water up yet).

•After picking her up and getting her wrapped up, we proceeded to the changing table to get diapered, lotioned up, and jammies. I always take my rings off when doing lotion, but this time she grabbed my rings and shoved them in her mouth. I did a sweep to get them out, but the engagement ring was already half down her throat and she was choking. So I grabbed her and turned her downwards and did the heimlich. She proceeded to vomit all over her bedroom floor, but the ring came out.

•So I probably sound like an inept parent, leaving small items in her reach that she can choke on. I am just glad I didn't panic, but instead just seemed to know what to do. I have never had to do anything like that before, nor am I sure I did it "correctly" but the goal was achieved none-the-less.

• I had to call poison control just a bit ago. Alice got ahold of some liquid potpourri, and was chewing on the bottle. You know, those pesky teeth. Anyway, I was worried about her consuming some (the lid was still on it though) so called poison control. They said everything was fine, since the lid was on and she consumed very little. I just had to wash her skin off and give her something to drink.

•So in less than 24 hours, I have had several parenting failures (well not complete). I am going to have to get a leash or dog crate for her since I obviously cannot keep up with her. I hate to think what she will manage when I'm nursing a newborn 24/7!

For more leftovers, visit Danifred and leave some comment love!

I Love Days Like This

I woke up before 6 this morning because I had to go to the bathroom, but also because I was starving. So I made apple bread and sausage very early this morning! Sean actually got a "good" breakfast this morning. Alice also woke up very early and ate apple bread. Then we wished Daddy a good day, and Alice and I climbed back into bed and took a nap. We woke up and ate lunch, and then we climbed back into bed, put on Beauty and the Beast, and took another nap.

I think I like waking up early and making breakfast for my family. The only down-side is the unproductive day, but who cares about that when I can cuddle with the cuteness that is my daughter!

When Carnivores Attack

I made meatloaf, mashed potatoes, carrots, and asparagus for Sean's birthday dinner. It was awesome! Probably the best mashed potatoes and meatloaf I have made. Alice LOVED the meatloaf and had thirds...yes, thirds! My little carnivore!

Gretchen has an annoying habit of climbing on me after I get up to go to the bathroom. You know, because she is smart and knows I'm awake. In the course of doing that this morning, she sneezed (actually snotted) all over me. I was furious. I had to get up and wash my face, and then he whole climbing on me began again. I kept moving her to the foot of the bed (which always works after the hundredth time), but got brutally scratched in the struggle.

Someone took an early nap today, and then fell asleep while I was making dinner. She was not happy when I woke her up to eat. I'm a mean mama. She then proceeded to bite my leg in protest. I'll give her a pass this time, since she is running a fever and cutting teeth.

Seriously, do I have a "eat me" sign on my body?

Happy Birthday to My Awesome Husband!

Sean is 40 today! And I think he is still very handsome!

Awesome doesn't begin to really describe how incredible the man is. He works two jobs (construction and UPS in the evenings) for a total of about 13 hours a day, plus travel time. So he is gone normally from 6:30am-10:30pm (sometimes later). He is the most talented man I have ever met. He works on our cars, our house, and pretty much everything else. He is a friend, husband, father, carpenter, painter, plumber, mechanic, and sole provider for our family. No wonder he is so tired all of the time!

His shoulder's carry the weight of the world. He is the strongest man I know.

I read this poem years ago, and thought that I wouldn't settle until I found a man like this.

“If I marry: He must be so tall that when he is on his knees he reaches all the way to heaven. His shoulders must be broad enough to bear the burden of a family. His lips must be strong enough to smile, firm enough to say no, and tender enough to kiss. Love must be so deep that it takes its stand in Christ and so wide that it takes in the whole lost world. He must be active enough to save souls. He must be big enough to be gentle and great enough to be thoughtful. His arms must be strong enough to carry a little child.” ~Ruth Bell Graham

Well I did, and couldn't be happier! I love you, Sean! Happy 40th Birthday!

Manic Monday

This title is very misleading. The only thing manic around here are the kittens and Alice. Which, really, is more than enough.

I have realized a few things. I am now in double digits until the baby gets here. Roughly 97 days. Unless he decides to be late like Alice.

That makes me 26-27 weeks (and I need to take a picture sometime!). Seriously! I have 13-14 weeks (or less) to get ready for this baby! If that isn't enough to make me manic, then I don't know what is. I have ordered a ton of clothes 0-3 months, 3-6 months, and a few 6-9 and 9-12. Just in case this kid is a chunk and is not "true to size" like Alice was. Now to wash, sort, and put them up. And I need to do the same with Alice's clothes. I'm not planning on getting rid of her stuff for a few years (in the off chance that Sean decides to grant my wish for another baby or two).

Oh and for your viewing pleasure, a huge drift from our back yard. It is about 4 feet high and at least 25 feet wide (which is hard to tell in the picture). I have never seen a drift that big in all my life, that wasn't up against a building or something. And, no, I'm a mean mama. Alice was not allowed outside today to play in the snow. Mostly because I have been hurting and have been laying on the couch most of the day...and because she needs better winter gear.

And I am going to say this now...I am already over winter, and it isn't even officially here yet. I'm dreading our gas bills for the next few months. Ugh!

Friday Night Leftovers

I'm still having trouble getting the Friday Night Leftovers button in here.

•Thank you so much for the birthday wishes!

•Have any of your friends ever forgotten your birthday? I have two friends (mother and daughter) who routinely "forget" my birthday. They were both on FB yesterday and didn't even send me a message, or text or call me. And these "friends" consider me their best friend. Hmm. Should I also mention that they owe me a few hundred dollars, which I'm sure I'll never ever see. But I don't care about that. They could at least try to remember me :/ since I'm such a good friend to them.

•It is amazing how messy my house gets while we are sleeping. I woke up to Alice's toys everywhere and her dirty clothes scattered around the house! Newspaper scattered and torn. Gee, thanks, felines!

•Today I will start holiday baking and goodies. On the agenda: sugar cookies, dipped pretzel rods, brownies, snickerdoodles, and maybe turtles if I can get to the store!

•My husband has a bad habit of starting the washing machine, but never putting anything in said machine. So my laundry day now includes his stuff as well! I should say that he normally does his own laundry, but I have been doing it lately. You know, trying to be nice and all! ;)

•Sean and I are planning on going out to dinner and a movie this weekend to celebrate both of our birthdays, if we can find someone to watch Alice.

•It is nice having our birthdays so close, sometimes. I have a twin brother, so I grew up sharing a day with someone else. And now I get to share with Sean! His birthday is Tuesday and he will be 40! Big birthdays for both of us this year!

•Oh, and no one has answered the quote/person from the pancake syrup I made. See here for the quote. I think it is in the second or third paragraph. Winner gets apple pancakes and apple cider syrup! You have to come here, or I can just give you the recipe! Of course, I could always send the winner some goodies that I make too! I know at least two of you (Lindsay and Jen!) probably know who said the quote and from what show!

For more leftovers visit Danifred and share some comment love over the weekend!

I'm Free...

...free of my twenties, and free of my super cranky, fit-pitching, back-talking, screaming, crying, whiny child (whom I LOVE more than anything!) as she FINALLY fell asleep.

As you may be able to tell, it has been a rough day. As if Alice and her teeth (and I'm thinking growing pains too) weren't enough, I have been in horrible pain all day. I finally broke down and called the ob. They called in Tylenol w/codeine for my SPD and back/hip pain. So I am getting ready to eat my dinner, have a couple ounces of wine, a hot bubble bath, and then take some pain medicine (hopefully the wine will be out of my system by then) and have some homemade mousse!

Yes, I said mousse :) Yummy, delicious, rich, chocolate mousse! That is for my birthday :)

And my sweet child, whom I was pretty sure thought I needed a bad birthday, gave me some time to myself! Thank you, Alice! That is the best gift I could have received. Well, maybe other than a ton of money, or a van, or a prenatal massage (wink, wink; hint, hint Sean!).

Decisions, Craziness, and The End of a Decade!

Things have been crazy around here lately. The kittens bring their own craziness. Alice has been a serious tantrum queen today. And then the usual messes that the little crazies all manage throughout the day.

They (the kittens) come flying in to the bathroom when they hear me turn the water on for Alice's bath. They don't go running like that for food! Then I have to continuously pull/push them out of the way so I can bathe her. I'm seriously thinking about just letting them take a bath with her, though I'm sure that would be disastrous.

Alice has been having melt down after melt down today. I think the main reason is she is teething and not feeling well. Seriously, she lost her mind when she saw the bananas! She threw herself to the floor, banging her head, and wouldn't stop screaming/crying/whining until I gave her some banana. Then she had a melt down when I told her I stay away from the cats' food and litter box. And then she saw the other banana.

I finally got her down for a nap. Thank the Lord! I'm hoping she will be a little less tormented when she wakes up. And I'm the mean mommy. I just walk off while she is pitching her fits. I don't see a point in giving her attention when she is acting like that, teething or otherwise.

I also got her to bed earlier than ever last night (9 pm) and she slept til 9 am. I'm going to try to stick with this! I actually had some time to myself last night! Sean didn't get to spend any time with her, though.

Speaking of Alice, I ordered a cleaning tool set for her. It has real stuff. Broom, dustpan, mop, bucket, sponges, gloves, etc. I don't see a point in getting the play stuff that requires batteries (ugh!) and isn't realistic at all. So she can help clean! Now she won't steal my mop and broom, and knock stuff over with them because they are too big for her!

I am also planning on getting her some more play food and pots/pans for her kitchen. I found This but I am also considering the pots/pans from Ikea. Along with the bake set and cooking utensils. Problem is I would have to drive to Illinois to get them. They aren't for purchase online. Boo! So what do you think? The toys r us set or drive to Ikea?

Oh and today is my last day in my twenties. I have been thinking about doing something wild and crazy. Like sleep ! Maybe I'll get a bottle of red wine and have a couple of ounces tonight. That will probably help with all of the pain I have been in. Ooh, maybe a hot bath and two-three ounces of wine after I get Alice to bed!

Now back to cleaning and laundry. I have cleaned my entire stove. It looks almost new! And bake apple bread! I'm also making my annual holiday baking list. If you make holiday treats, what do you make? I'll finish compiling mine and let you know what I'll be making this year!

Bittersweet!

We woke up early to take Sean to work again. It was (and still is) freezing here! It was about 7 degrees this morning, but with wind chill it felt like -9 degrees. Alice was NOT happy about being torn from the warm bed. I don't blame her. I wasn't too thrilled myself!

We have to pick Sean up tonight and take him to work tomorrow morning. And then, we are done! The guy that was installing the rebuilt transmission got it done about 4pm today. Two days early!!! Woo hoo! So I will be so glad not to have to spend that much time in the car, but will miss my extra time with Sean. Bittersweet!

I'll also be glad to not have to fill up the car every day and a half. I usually get by on one tank, with the occasional second fill up. Speaking of gas, we stopped at the gas station this morning. I was filling up the car, and was around $30 when the display reset. WTH? So I finished filling up, and got the receipt. $4.50! I got a tank of gas for $4.50! I'm keeping the receipt forever! And in case they charge me more because who knows what it really would have been. Though part of me feels guilty, but no one else was getting gas at the time so they shouldn't have reset it (or whatever happened) while I was pumping!

A Wonderful Day!

We woke up about 8, which was nice to sleep in a bit. Then I went outside to a winter wonderland!

I fed the animals. Sean headed to the bank, and Alice "helped" me make breakfast. She stood on a chair next to me, while I made apple pancakes and apple cider syrup. They were the most delicious pancakes ever! "I want to bathe in that syrup!" If you can name where that quote came from and who said it, I will make you the pancakes and syrup (you have to come here, though). I used to think that blueberry pancakes were my favorite, but not any more.

Then Alice and I played with the kitties. She LOVES the kitties! Mortimer is the only one who will let her cuddle.

It kept snowing all day. Alice and I climbed into bed and watched Beauty and the Beast. Then we took a nap. She slept for about 3 hours (she woke up early) and I got about an hour and a half nap! What a nice treat!!!

We then got dressed to go outside. It took me at least 40 minutes to get her dressed! No kidding! Longjohns, clothes, two pairs of socks, socks and mittens on the hands, boots, coat, and hat. Then we headed out.

Alice was not to sure about the snow.

After a few minutes of trepidation, she embraced the snow (literally!) and had a ton of fun!

We walked around the yard, and then decided to go inside. I was cold (not dressed as warmly as Alice) and someone was really wet from the snow. I need to buy her a snow suit and boots. She had on some hand me down dress boots.

Then we had a nice dinner. Alice and I took a bath. We are settling in to watch Polar Express and eat some ice cream!

Friday Night Leftovers

•Alice and I have been in the car for 6-7
hours a day (depending upon traffic). That really stinks! I'm hoping Sean's truck is fixed soon. And in case you are wondering why we are in the car so long: 1 hour to construction, 1 hour home, 1 hour to pick him up, 1 hour to UPS, 45 minutes home, 45 minutes to pick him up, and 45 minutes home! Of course, Alice sleeps most of this time, so I don't really get a nap. Ugh!

•It is amazing how messy this place gets with two kittens and a toddler! Throw a baby in to the mix, and we may soon be on one of those house shows (and not in a good way!).

•Okay, so the house isn't that bad, but it is a lot more difficult to keep up with.

•I made orange chicken last night. It was really delicious! I tweaked the recipe a bit, and will change a few things for next time. It was awesome! I will have to post the recipe after I make it again.

•Speaking of recipes, are there any that you would like to know? I keep intending to post the pierogi casserole/lasagna. Anything else you desire?

•Sean and I worked on his vacation schedule last night. He gets 6 weeks from UPS (none from construction unless they don't have a job). He is planning on taking most of March off. Hopefully two weeks before the little man gets here, and two after. Sean wanted to know when I thought he would be here. I told him anytime between now and the end of March! How am I supposed to know? Then use his FMLA time in late summer/early fall because otherwise he loses all of his vacation for FMLA.

•Not that I want the baby to come any time soon. Please bake until at least the end of February!

•I know I have complained about the lack of sleep/driving thing, but I DO enjoy having that extra time to talk to Sean. We usually only have a little time each day, so these extra hours here and there have been a nice treat!

•Alice keeps closing the bathroom door on the cats (which isn't a problem if they are in there) and I know someone is going to have an accident. We normally would leave the bathroom door closed, but we now have a baby gate up to prevent a little someone from playing with food/water/litter. It is hard to break habits!

For more leftovers, go see Danifred!

This Is Getting Rough

Alice has two more teeth coming in. She has been incredibly fussy. Which is understandable, considering she has six teeth working their way through her gums. Two of them are already popped mostly through, but the rest are little white dots. Can they come in already?

On top of that, the cats are driving me nuts! I can't believe that I wanted to bring them indoors. Gretchen has already shattered two ornaments today, and we are only half way through the day. Good grief! Mortimer has become the better behaved...at least for today. I keep reminding myself they are kittens.

So basically, I have not gotten a thing done. We got Sean to work, and I'm dying for a nap right now. Guess who doesn't want to nap? Yes, my little cherub! And this house is a disaster. Two kittens and a toddler (and I don't want to think about what it will look like with a newborn thrown in to the mix) have managed to destroy everything. Clean laundry is tossed everywhere...thanks kitties! Goldfish and Teddy Grahams on the floor. Forget my nap...will she just sleep so I can clean some of this up?

We have to pick Sean up in a couple of hours, and drive him to UPS, and then pick him back up about 10 or so. Ugh! Add chauffeur to my list ;) at least this won't last forever. Maybe through next week.

And have I said that I'm dying for a nap? Getting up two to three hours early is rough. Alice is having a hard time, since her sleep schedule has been thrown off from going to get the kitties fixed. So that means mine has too. Weekend come on! I need some sleep!!!

Winter is Here!

We have had a bit of snow, but just flurries and nothing that stuck. This morning, I woke up to this.

Granted that is hardly anything, but it is cold and the wind is blowing. Plus it is still snowing (there is a huge drift by the car) an supposed to keep up through tomorrow. So I don't care what the calendar says. I'm declaring winter is here!

Alice either dove or slipped earlier. Face first in to the snow. She screamed and did NOT appreciate the cold. She looked at me like WTH?! She was covered in snow, and it was pretty funny. Unfortunately, my phone was in the car so I did not get a picture. Perhaps tomorrow I will take her out again and trip her. I'm just kidding. About the tripping her, not taking her outside.

In other (unrelated) news, Sean's transmission is going out in his Camry AND truck. He has been having a new transmission built for the truck, which he was going to take the truck to the place to get it installed. Unfortunately, it will only go about 20mph, so Alice and I will be picking him up tonight and driving him to/from work tomorrow. Perhaps longer. His friend is going to haul the truck tomorrow and get the transmission installed. Hopefully we will have it back by this weekend.

And for your viewing pleasure, we now have TWO "Martys"! He is the mouse from the "If You Take a Mouse to the Movies" book. I opened the box when it came and Alice (who was holding Marty) stared with big eyes. Then kept looking at the Marty she was holding and the one I was holding. I could literally see the wheels turning in her head! Then she ran and grabbed both Martys! So she had a bit of heaven (while we are in teething hell)!