Big Bald Blog Contest

The Big Bald Blog is having a great contest where you could win an Ipod Touch or a blog review. Go check it out: http://blog.impactmt.com/2007/12/i-am-giving-away-this-ipod-and-more.html

That's What She Said

I do love that I can watch episodes back to back online right now. Just finished a block of "the Office." I wouldn't have time to watch that otherwise! Thank goodness for those whining writers.

In other news, fudge is evil. It's here and it's out to get me. It's the end of the month, I'm feeling a little chubby and hormonal. Did I mention I LOVE my cycle? It has chosen the most convoluted time of the month to act up. The time when rent is due and money is thin. Darn you fudgy goodness!!!!

I May Not Be Eating Bon Bons...

...but I am acting the part of someone on vacation. Up late watching TV & playing PSP. Eating one piece of fudge on a daily basis. Letting the house fall into the dregs of dirt. And generally being a lump of lazy self-indulgence.

Should I be worried that I'm not concerned about doing anything with depth?I think about it in a couple days.

Contest of the Day

Table for Five is giving you the chance to win a year's supply of popcorn www.orville.com and a year long membership to Netflix! Check it out! http://table4five.net/2007/12/27/win-a-free-year-of-netflix-and-a-years-supply-of-popcorn/

The Strike Drags On

I know I haven't said much about this lately...the holidays sort've made me not care as much. But now some shows are getting the axe, that makes me a little sad. Sure, some were complete dreck, but some will never be given a chance to shine.

Will all the late night hosts shoot themselves in the foot by doing their shows without writers?? Leno, Letterman and Stewart have the potential to kill their careers with the move to writerless shows.

I'll be interested to see if the strike shifts the tenor of what we watch. The popularity of certian types of shows come in waves. One show gets a hit crime drama and then everyone does a crime drama. What happens when a brick wall hits the wave? Stay tuned!

Vegetables, Herbal Tea, and Fudge

That's what I'll be eating and drinking today. The kids and I all have colds and are sitting around hacking. Fortunately their friends across the street are sick too, so they still have playmates.

I've been playing happily with my new PSP that my dear hubby got me. I know not all women would be thrilled with getting a handheld video console, but I find it so relaxing to kick some alien butt sometimes!

Christmas was so good this year. We spent the day with friends and at amazing food. I can't get over how joyful my church family makes me. I'm missing Kari, Lauren, Kati and Brit though. Ladies, let's get together!

Contest of the Day

Laced With Grace http://lacedwithgrace.com/?p=657 is hosting a fabulous end of the year giveaway. Prize includes a Women of Faith study Bible (NIV/Hardcover); Lisa Whelchel’s Bible study tool for busy moms; a coffee mug from “Mugs of Truth“; the DVD “The Nativity Story“; the book “Love and Respect“; and a music CD by Becky Knight, who just released her first CD.

The Walls Are Closing In!

I'm stuck indoors all day with two sick kids. Nothing serious, a cold, but I am getting really bored with sitting at home. I would take them to the grocery store...if I had a working car!! I'm not in the best of moods and I'm very tired. I was looking forward to seeing hubby, but he's at work and will be coming home to change his clothes and go to a poker game. Sigh.

Brain is mush and I'm reading "Twilight" by Stephanie Meyer.

Working on the Chain Gang

I am hands-down (or maybe hands-moving) a physical worker. The last thing I desire is a job where I have to sit down all the time. Back when I worked I was a waitress because it was constant movement. My metabolism was never better!! Right now I'm taking the occasional job to clean houses and I LOVE IT.
Cleaning other houses is better than cleaning my own because I never have to see it get messed up. That's the worst part about cleaning my own is it's slow (sometimes rapid) decline into a messy pit. So, now I get to tidy up a different house, get a workout, and get paid to do it!!
The other plus is that it doesn't intrude too much on my daily life. My hubby has shown me the beauty of the non-traditional job. Give me the job of lumberjack or pig farmer or park ranger or road construction crew member!
I think that's another reason why being a barista would appeal to me. I'd be on my feet the whole time and I'd get free caffeine! BTW, if any of you have been reading since my giving up of caffeine...I fell FAR off the wagon. Once the snow started flying caffeinated drinks simply showed up in front of me. No way was I going to waste them!

Are you a physical laborer or a sitting worker?

Happy, Happy, Joy, Joy

I am dragging!! I think I'd built up so much anxiety about the court case that my body is extremely tired now. Either that or it's just the season. My kids seem extra tired as well.

They're fighting with friends and whining about many things. I'm REALLY looking forward to hanging out with them over the break (by hanging out, I mean chucking them out a window).

I've won two things within the last couple of weeks that I'm really thankful for. The first one is my Krups Blender. Our blender had started smoking, so this was a lifesaver...a double blessing this week because hubby had his wisdom tooth taken out. The blender is amazing! THe other thing I won was the new Ipod Nano with the video screen. Talk about a fun little toy! I'll be thankful for it on my next flight overseas.
When I started the whole contesting thing I was thrilled with leaving God in control of my winning & losing. I'm so thankful for every contest I've won, because it's only by God's choice that I got those things. I've been able to give out so many more Christmas presents because of it. Sometimes it's hard to keep it in perspective though.

The kid's latest catch phrase is "Yum...stinky!!" Great thing to hear when you're walking around the house.

Contests of the Day!

Momsational is giving away oodles of great prizes! I have my eye on the $50 GC to Ebay. http://emomsathome.com/momsational/win-a-50-ebay-gift-certificate-and-buy-the-hottest-hard-to-find-gifts-this-year/

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Cootie Hog is giving away a $10 GC to Target. Who couldn't use some bullseye fun?! http://www.cootiehog.com/?p=3865

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Where Does All My Money Go is giving back by giving away a 7.1 megapixel camera. Check it out. http://www.wheredoesallmymoneygo.com/mainpage/2007/12/17/win-a-free-71-megapixel-canon-digital-camera.html

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ENCHANTING THE LADY
"The imagination of J.K. Rowling and the romance of Julie Garwoodall rolled up into one fabulous novel." Erin Grady, author of WhispersPlease visit: http://www.KathryneKennedy.com

Does Anyone Know...

...can novacaine make you drowsy. I had two fillings taken care of this morning and I'm feeling really out of it.



Could be lack of sleep talking too.

I Fought The Law & the Law Won (Unfairly!!!!)

Sooooo....as you can tell from the title, I lost. I really couldn't believe it. The witnesses for the other side stated a couple of times that they really didn't know what happened. The woman couldn't remember which side of my car hit hers and couldn't identify the car AT ALL. The city attorney even handed the judge my clean driving record!
BASICALLY the judge decided that I was guilty and hadn't proven myself innocent. Damn system, but hey, at least I now know I can do a fine job representing myself. Hubby was right there with my and was very pissed off when I got my butt handed to me on a frickin platter.

Has anyone else been unfairly screwed by the justice system???

Mild Freakout: Please Pray

I'm devoting much too much stress and brain space to worrying about my trial tomorrow. It's a traffic violation for goodness sake! But I have to represent myself and that scares me to death.

Please pray that the formal letter I sent to the DA stating my position would somehow make him drop the case. That's my ultimate prayer, not having to go, but if I do please pray that God would be with me and give me favor in that room with that judge.

Break from the Baking

I've spent all morning in the kitchen making pistachio cookies, fudge and divinity with maraschino cherries! So good!! I'm still debating whether to keep going and make date-filled cookies today, or tomorrow.

Thursday night was a very special night for Ruth and I. We went to "Disney Princess on Ice" with our friends Lanell and Ana. I'm not a very emotional parent for the most part, but watching her face light up made me tear up. I still remember going to Disney on Ice when I was a kid.

God answered a car prayer yesterday. Someone handed us a gas card and some money to buy a tire (our has bits hanging off of it, I can't believe it's still going!).

We're All Needy

I was reminded last night of how important we women are to each other. Our hearts matter and we thrive when we can sit with each other emotionally. I'm glad to be a part of continuing community and growth.

Baskets With a Theme

Oh Amanda www.ohamanda.com is doing weekly giveaways and her assignment this week was to come up with a themed basket.

I gave my SIL a "Save My Newborn Insanity" basket. She had just gotten my niece and was barely sleeping. So the basket included:
-Heavy duty earplugs!
-An eye mask
-Melatonin (to lull her body back to sleep)
-Calm tea
-A bottle of Bailey's to drink sparingly
-1 night off (her hubby agreed to get up with no arguing that night)

Have You Ever...

...washed a diaper with your laundry? Hands down one of the grossest things ever!!! The little gels bits all over the clothes and washer. Just nasty!

Catch up, Ketchup

I'm so sorry that I have been MIA...I consider December right up there with summer as the worst time to stay connected to community. Granted, I've gotten some great time with family though. Quick recap:

Ruth's 6th B-Day sleepover was great! Three girls spent the night and, of course, they giggled and caroused until 11pm. Apparently one of them snored, but there were no fights, so I count that a success.

Jason's mom was here for the first time in 2 years...much shopping happened and she spoiled us rotten. Ruth got a Costco-sized Littlest Pet Shop house and hubby finally got a suitcase that he can live with. Who knew men could be so picky about their luggage!

We finally had two decent snowstorms back to back. Good thing considering it mid-December!!!

Sunday was a weird day for our church body. We have 2 couples in leadership positions at the YWAM base in Arvada. So, we spent our service praying that the guy would be found. We had a cop patrolling the blocks around our church, which at the time I thought was a little too serious, but given the fact that he went on to shoot people at a church affiliated with YWAM I'm thankful he was there. Please continue to pray for everyone involved...our friends had to stay elsewhere while the investigation went on and our now back in their house.

Contests of the Day

5 Minutes for Mom is hosting to great contests:

The first giveaway is a great Insignia Shelf System http://www.5minutesformom.com/2717/insignia-shelf-system-giveaway/ from Best Buy.

The other giveaway is a $200 GC to True Jeans. Check it out! http://www.5minutesformom.com/2725/true-jeans-contest/

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American Made is hosting a contes for some great outdoor gear from Battle Lake Outdoors.
http://americanmade1.blogspot.com/2007/12/battle-lake-outdoors-giveaway.html

It's a Sham!

My studly hubby's mom has been here for a visit since Saturday. We've been busy enjoying her presence so I haven't had time to post.

I'm easy to please and my dear MIL took us shopping and let us pick out our Christmas presents. I have been wanting a new bedding set for a year now and I got a gorgeous red striped set for our room. A sham and bedskirt have made my week.
My daughter is over the moon because she got a massive Littlest Pet Shop House and my son is obsessed with his Car Crushing Hot Wheels toy. Normally I would poo poo an early gift opening, but it has been fun!

So, I'll be posting (hopefully) tomorrow about sleepover madness. BTW, keep YWAM in your prayers...we have 2 couples in our small church body who are part of the leadership at the YWAM base that was hit first. Very hard situation for our friends.

If It Weren't for the Medicine...

...I would've dropped "Grey's Anatomy" SO LONG AGO!!! How much promiscuity can we take people! Grrr. I said I could stick with it as long as their was one couple still together. It looks like Bailey and Tucker are done. Am I done? I'm very close.

But I'm really starting to like Lexie, Sloan, Han and Torres. They just seem slightly less childish than everyone else. What is Alex's problem! Oh!! I'm so frustrated with this show right now.

Do you ever look at your kids and just marvel that they're walking around and talking in intelligent conversation with each other. There's a highly anticipated 6th B-Day party sleepover happening here tomorrow night. Stay tuned for the aftermath!

Erm

Which rhymes with "worm", which is the extent of my creativity as of late. All my imaginative energy is going towards gifts...which is good for my family and BAD for my blog.

Did I mention I'm being a spiritual putz as well, and that never helps!

I miss talking and thinking deeply lately, but I'm not getting off my shallow butt to do anything about it. I know you know I HATE summers for how the spiritual community sort've goes on hiatus. Well, I feel the same way about the holidays. I know it's good to spend time with family, and God knows people need a break. But I need my weekly Bible studies and prayer! Without them I fall apart.

I think this is the way it's supposed to be, right? Craving good community?

Contest of the Day

5 Minutes For Mom http://www.5minutesformom.com/2689/parentsgiveaway/ is hosting a baby toy giveaway, sponsored by Parents magazine http://www.parents.com/ . Check it out!

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Crucial Web Hosting http://www.crucialwebhost.com/blog/4000-crucial-contest/ is giving away over $4,000 in prizes!! You have to work a little to enter, but it'll be worth it! You might also want to check out David Airey’s site and their Split-Shared hosting page .

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Blonde Walks Into A Review http://blondereviews.blogspot.com/2007/12/christmas-giveaway.html is giving away a very popular Christmas book Merry Christmas, America! Megawatt Displays Across the USA . Check it out!

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Sophistishe http://sophistishe.org/2007/12/01/holiday-gift-ideas-giveaway/ is giving away a GC to Kangaroodle !

My Favorite Ornament

For anyone who knows me you know why this is my favorite ornament. Ruth came out of the womb with a love for Spongebob Squarepants.

The Christmas she turned 2, the highlight of her Christmas Eve was the Spongebob special. This has been the cartoon that all four of us bond over. We quote lines from the show to each other and will act out scenes randomly.

The family that acts like a sponge, loves like a sponge!

Oh Amanda www.ohamanda.com came up with this post idea for her contest! Check out other people's favorite ornaments over at her sight.

A Little Stuffed

I spent an hour today in a coffee shop, working on my Bible study notes. As I sat there I realized how stuffed the room felt. I realized that every eye, ear and nose space was taken up by something. Then I stepped outside and I felt much the same way.

No room for silence or nature.

I rarely notice how stuffed full of sensory stuff I am, but occasionally I have a moment of clarity.
When I was a teenager, my friends and I would comment on how there was always a song running through our subconscious...I can say that now I actually have moments where my brain is free of song, but it's been replaced by the endless (because nothing's really ever done) to-do list.
We hardly have to fight nature for our survival anymore, but the fight we ignore these days is our survival of peaceful thought in the middle of sensory overload. I've lost my concentration on this blurg cause hubby turned on Fox news.

Thoughts???

Two Moms In A Blog

Two Moms In a Blog http://twomomsinablog.com/ has been hosting an amazing picture posting contest. If you still want to get in on the contest, head over there for your chance to win a photo printer!

So Disappointed

Zooey, Zooey, Zooey!!! What are you doing in this train wreck "Tin Man"??? You did so well in "Almost Famous" and "Elf". Grrr.
I gave the Sci-Fi channel the benefit of the doubt because they picked up two good shows...and they bit me on the finger! They came out sporting stilted dialogue and bad effects *sigh*. I'll probably give it one more shot ONLY because I'm a glutton for punishment.

Anyone else have an opinion on the show??

Spies & Scarecrows.

I've started to watch "Chuck" on NBC Saturday nights and it's shaping up to be a good choice. The dialogue on this show is really fun and it's just the right mix of comedy and kick butt spy story. The actors they chose for each part are so good too!

I've been hearing about "Tin Man" for the last couple of months and (dorkily enough) it's been on my calendar for the last month. It is a retake on the Wizard of Oz with the very sweet Zooey Deschanel as Dorothy. I really want this show to live up to the hype. It starts tomorrow night on the Sci-Fi channel.

BTW, my hubby had a flight canceled on him, so he's camped out in the Detroit airport tonight. His time in Morocco was apparently very good and encouraging to our friends there.

Now It's Personal!

Since I had my bi-weekly Bible study last night, I missed all my Thursday shows. I gleefully got on ABC tonight, only to see that "Grey's" was a re-run. So, I tried to watch CSI...re-run!!! Arrgh!!! For the love of all things cheese-made, they can't be out of episodes! I was worried about the writer's strike, and now I'm downright terrified.
How can I live without House, Grey's, Heroes, and CSI? What do they expect me to do? I will say this, I might pick up a couple of other shows by watching back episodes online. I've seen some of "Chuck" and I like what I've seen. "Pushing Daisies" interests me too. It looks like Pee Wee from Pee Wee's Playhouse is on that show right now.
What did I end up watching? Scrubs, which was thankfully a new one. That show still has magic for me.

How To Get Your Kids to spend time in Their Room

I don't know about you, but sometimes getting my munchkins to play with toys in their room is impossible. I don't know why that is. So, here' s what I've done to turn that around. I've instigated a "rest time" a couple times a week. They have to go to their rooms and play quietly until the timer goes off (usually 20 minutes). Somedays that 20 minutes seems to last longer than normal (I can't help it if time magically is added to the timer!). Thank goodness for rest time!

This article is part of How2Blogger’s Super Sexy Holiday ‘How To’ Contest which you can see at How2Blogger’s ‘How To’ site.

Contests of the Day

Not Entirely British is giving away a portable DVD player. I would love to win this since ours broke 6 months ago.

http://annebradshaw.blogspot.com/2007/11/christmas-give-away-win-compact-dvd.html

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Green Style Mom is giving away some very cool baking cups on her site. Check it out!

http://greenstylemom.blogspot.com/2007/11/best-gifts-are-baked.html

I Miss...

...singing in a choir! I loved the blending of so many voices into a myriad of amazing Latinonious tones. I miss it especially around Christmas because there's so many amazing pieces put out for the holiday. If I were to add one thing to any church I attended, it would be a choir like my high school choir. I miss stretching my range and excercising the tones on a daily basis.

Yes, I am (and apparently always will be) a choir geek.

Child Creativity

Mmkay, so my kids have taken my car keys. They are hanging them half in, half out of the back of their shirts and being cars.

The Apple of my Photo Eye

I know that most Apple-users are very die-hard about their machines. I'm not really in any camp on the subject. I'll use whatever computer you put on my lap. BUT, one thing about Apple that made me very excited today was their IPhoto program.

I was able to bust out a softcover 2o page picture book for the three sets of grandparents in an hour. The product on the computer look fabulous and I'm hoping the finished product will look just as good. I was able to order three small books for $15!!! I think all of my Christmas shopping is offically done now. Not bad for it still being November.

Contest of the Day

Crunchy Domestic Goddess http://crunchydomesticgoddess.com/2007/11/21/the-cdg-holiday-toy-gift-guide/ has a great toy guide up for all those people trying to keep it simple.

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Here's a quick contest that you need to enter by 10pm tonight!

Doug Phillips and Vision Forum are sponsoring a giveaway at inashoe.com to help get word out about the FREE SHIPPING Vision Forum is offering until Midnight tonight

Help spread the word on your website or blog then leave a comment at Life in a Shoe by 10pm today to enter!

House Gives 13 A Lifeline!!!

Does anyone remember 13's name??? I couldn't have been happier with the outcome, but I was a little surprised that the plastic surgeon got to stay. In hindsight, I think they pulled out this whole storyline because they knew that it had been too much about House. When are he and Cuddy going to get it on? Probably not until Cuddy has to leave the show. I am so excited for where this show goes next!

Hopefully the closed talks over the writer's strike went well today. Sure, I can hold my attention on local politics, but give me a Hollywood writer strike or any news blurg on the country of Turkey or anything about Colony Collapse Disorder and I'm all over it like Homer on a donut!

Hubby update: The man is in Fez, Morocco eating lentils (lots of them apparently) and once again the luggage is coming later than the man. So, their Christmas is postponed a little. Luckily I don't really have much spare time the next 4 days, so I can't miss him.

Contest of the Day

Mel In a Nutshell http://www.melinanutshell.com/ is hosting a giveaway of $50 in an effort to generate more traffic on her site. You do need to have Paypal to enter. Check it out!

Ho, Ho, Ho, Moroccan style

Hubby is on his way to Morocco as I type. Every year we get to play Santa Claus to all our church's missionaries. So, he was packed full of presents and was concerned with overweight bags. Yeah, nothing like flying for 2 days to spend 3 days in a foreign country. I've got the traveling itch, but it's not time for me to scratch it.

If you are a praying person, please pray for my hubby this week (he'll be back Sat.). Oh yeah, and my kids would appreciate me keeping my sanity.

Mommy Needs a Review

Mommy Needs A Review http://mommyneedsareview.com/?p=8 is hosting a contest about the BEST missed shot. Here's mine:
I would have to say mine would be CSI-like mock up photos of my daughter's head injury. When she was 2, she ran to give my hubby a hug, tripped and sliced her skin down to the bone RIGHT next to her eye! You know head injuries, lots of blood and parental freaking out because we don't know how bad it is. I can't get the memory of her being held down in the ER as they use what might as well be a fishhook to sew up the wound. My daughter likes to repeat the story, but I'm not sure she actually remembers any of it. Thank God for no pictures!

http://www.hp.com/hpinfo/newsroom/press_kits/2007/digphoto/images/m447.jpg

Contests of the Day

Teeny Manolo is having a giveaway of Amazon GC, and who couldn't use that?! http://teenymanolo.com/2007/11/18/the-teeny-manolo-sweepstakes/

Raging Rouge http://www.ragingrouge.com/ragingrouge/2007/11/ragingly-genero.html a sweet makeup related site is giving away an amazing makeup prize.

An lastly, Laura Williams Musings http://laurawilliamsmusings.blogspot.com/2007/11/review-giveaway-limited-edition-happy.html is giving away a Happy Panda http://www.happypandababy.com/home.php?xid=06fe7067c260c4f54a2fe1cb53db4c34 gift basket. Check it out!

Oh So Giddy!

A couple of weeks back I won a blog review from the fabu site of Blog About Your Blog. Well, they posted it today and I'm flattered! Here's the link: http://blogaboutyourblog.com/2007/11/24/young-mom-in-the-big-world/

The Best Contest Ever!

I am kind've nerdy, I lust after seminary and a large collection of deep theological books and my current hero is Dallas Willard. All that to say, Encyclopedia Kevinannica http://www.kevinstilley.com/2007/03/thousands-of-dollars-in-free-books.html I giving away a lot of amazing tomes! If any of you PW's are looking for something for the spouse, there may be something on his list.

Blessings and I love you all (I don't tell you that enough, do I?)

Yes, I Am Up Early

While I was standing in line at Target at 5am, I started to wonder who started all this madness and why. Here's what Wikipedia could tell me:

Although Black Friday, as the first shopping day after Thanksgiving, has served as the unofficial beginning of the Christmas season at least since the start of the modern Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in 1924, the term "Black Friday" has been traced back only to the 1970s. "Black Friday" was originally so named because of the heavy traffic on that day, although most contemporary uses of the term refer instead to it as the beginning of the period in which retailers are in the black (i.e., turning a profit).

I looked around the web this morning and that's the most complete explanation I could get. Not good enough for me.

Then I started thinking about other cultures. How in the world do you explain this tradition to people in other countries?! I'm sure the BBC and other overseas networks will show little blurbs of Americans beating each other up in Best Buy over a TV.

Then I thought about my own attitude about the whole thing. I love it and I don't think it's necessarily because of the great deals. I spent 45 minutes this morning chatting with a very nice woman who was in line behind me. I think I like that it's something we as a country can bond over. We can catch a spirit of community and camraderie while standing in these long lines and talking about the "good deals". So, yes, it is a time of rampant consumerism, but it can be encouraging as well.

BTW, I got a coffee maker for $5! That was my big purchase this morning. I didn't go overboard because I had a couple days to think rationally about my spending.

Any thoughts? Oh yeah, do Canadians have a Black Friday?

Bring Me the Thong of Cuddy!

I wasn't surprised to see the Mormon out this week. He hadn't been developed enough as a character for them to keep him around. I loved that he made a deal with Cuddy! Also, where were Chase and Cameron? We need to see more of Wilson...he's always a voice of gentle mockery in the harse bluntness of everyone else.

I kind've wonder if 13 is going to be dead in a couple weeks. I think she's terminally ill and, hey, it'd be a different way to knock someone out of the running.

Ruth and I went to "Enchanted" today. It was cute, had a good hopefully message at the end. I love that she's old enough to do things like this with me. I'm a sucker for a fairy tale.

Give it to Me Straight Doc!

And he did, our Isuzu Rodeo is on its way out. We can either let it bite the dust in a week/month or sink a little over $1,000 into it. We love that car because it's our post-blizzard ride out of our driveway. Oh yeah, we don't have money for any car repairs, much less a NEW old car.

This all comes as the holidays are almost here and I want to spend some cash on Black Friday. Not in the best of moods today, both kids have been extra special whiney the last two days. Extra special, because it's come with a liberal dose of angry eyes.

Hopefully "House" will be on tonight and be entertaining. Stay tuned to see my after-opinion on the episode.

TMIAB: Challenges #7 and #8

Two Moms in a Blog are hosting a slew of challenges....most of them photo related. Number 7 was taking a picture of my name in some medium. Witness my name in the goodness of Goldfish and Pringles. Barbecue Pringles no less!

The other is a picture of my daughters gorgeous art.

The Golden Compass

I have stated in the past that I have authority issues and hate jumping on most bandwagons. With all that in mind, I am aggravated when anyone passes around an e-mail to boycott something without doing the research. It makes them look dumb. Take the latest Christian outrage at "The Golden Compass".

I've gotten a couple of e-mails and talked to a couple of well-meaning women who are saying that all believers should avoid the movie because it's an atheist's manifesto against God. I won't deny that author Phillip Pullman is a staunch atheist who may have wanted to tear apart God...but I would argue that he didn't succeed in his trilogy "His Dark Materials". I read the series over the summer after learning it was going to be a movie. I was disappointed by his inability to finish any of the books well. I was also confused as to what point he was trying to make against God. He pokes fun at the formal church, but theres no serious discussion of atheism symbolized in these books.

All that being said, unless the people who made the movie can extract Pullman's point better than he could, I don't think there's any reason to get in a snit. Do you really think that it would be God's intention for EVERYONE to avoid this movie??? I guess it's possible...but I think it's more possible that some people may have some good questions raised by this movie that will cause them to seek God for the first time OR seek Him more deeply.

I would ask everyone, instead of blatantly boycotting this movie, to prayerfully consider what they ought to do with it. Maybe by reading the books or seeing the movie you will have a meaningful conversation with a nonbeliever. (BTW, I'm not saying your kids should read this series...I think we as parents ought to read them. I'm also not saying you should endorse OR lambast this film to your peers).

So here are some questions to consider:

-Have you read the books?

-Have you seen the movie?

-Do you know the author's story and why he wrote what he did?

Thoughts???

Crime Scene Investigation

I know not many people watch CSI anymore...but hubby and I have stuck with it pretty much since the beginning. Some of the episodes are almost too macabre for me to watch, but I like the rag tag bunch that makes up the team.
If it wasn't for Grissom, there would be no reason to watch. The character has depth and a great mentoring attitude...almost (dare I say it) pastor-like. Horatio could learn so much from working with him.
I won't sugar coat it, I teared up when Sara walked out of Grissom's life this week. I wanted them together (as I want most characters to be together) and want her to come back. Come back Sara!
If Grissom's character ever leaves the show, the show is finished.

Wow

Spent some time with the kids in the mall today. I can't believe how insanely busy it is there already. Santa's already sitting on his throne and rendering little kids speechless. Always amazes me how powerful of an icon Santa is, even to my daughter who knows he's not real.

Felt very productive though because I found the perfect gift for my hubby!!! The trick will be keeping that information from him until Christmas gets here. Hubby is currently out in the Colorado wilds with his dad and little brother trying once again to bring home an elk. Please pray that he gets one tomorrow, I can't stand eating beef for a year!

TV Update

Okay people, "House" had some great episodes the last couple of weeks, but they can't all be winners. This week was just okay...they tried to do too many things in this episode. But the theme of "no one can be trusted" continued in the plastic surgeons life. What is the deal with Cameron still obviously being hung up on House?? Are they going to develop that more? What do you think? They need to kick someone off next week. It's time.

Oh "Grey's Anatomy" you had to go and screw with Bailey...first, you had her had a emotional moment last week over the job (fine, I can take that), BUT to turn her into a giggling schoolgirl and almost ruin my confidence in the one couple still together. For shame!! Granted, you never see Bailey's husband Tucker or her kid, but at least she still has them!! I like what's going on between Lexi and Alex (close name association)...and I also like that the Chief still is being kind to Meredith.

One last comment, I'm getting a little nervous about the writer strike. I seriously look forward to my weekly shows and I will be very sad if the season's are cut short because of it. Most shows have anywhere from 3 to 8 episodes made before their run is through. I'm a little panicked. Do the writer's have good cause to strike?

Thoughts?

Da Traditions

We all have them this time of year, even if it's a tradition to avoid following tradition. Being in only my 6th year of marriage, hubby and I are still meshing our traditions together.
Thanksgiving was always about the food. It was always the same and I always lusted after the dark meat long before the day came. My mom made gravy from scratch and I never make gravy. I'm no good at it and I'm now concerned about the health of it, so "so long" gravy. I still make this heavenly dessert that we had at Thanksgiving and Christmas. My mom actually keeps the receipe close to her heart: Cranberry Cake with Hot Butter sauce!
My parents never went in for Black Friday mania, but that's become a tradition I implemented for myself three years ago. I was afraid that it was going to be an insane bloodbath, but I have yet to run into any carnage.

I'm recommending this website because it's helped me on Black Friday...there are a couple of these sites out there: http://bfads.net/

happy hunting!

In Pursuit of the Proverbs 31 Woman is giving away a HD DVD player over on her site...check it out! http://www.inpursuitofproverbs31.com/2007/11/win-toshiba-hd-dvd-a2-player-contest.html

Bloody Hell!

Long time between good posts, I'm sorry. I've allowed myself to be consumed by a bloody traffic violation ticket that I didn't do. Then I had to go to bloody court today, plead not bloody guilty, and NOW I have to wait another month for my bloody day in court in front of a judge!!!
I am not a big fan of all of this bloody stuff!

I like this Contest

Okay so Mom Coming Home http://momcominghome.com/2007/11/06/its-my-birthday-and-ill-give-away-money-if-i-want-to/ is hosting a giveaway. It's all about seeing how far your blog has come. So, here's my first post:

All I can say is that it's about bloody time I joined the world of blogging. Being a mom just makes you want to get things off your chest (sometimes literally!) and what better way to do that than on the internet.Let me introduce myself with a brief life history (all 23 years worth). I grew up in Billings, MT...was tragically homeschooled until seventh grade (still have issues from that) and finally ended up in a publice high school. My parents were unbelievably strict folks and I broke free by eloping with J. That turned out to be the best decision I've ever made. In our 4 1/2 years have produced 2 cute kids, 5 trips to Turkey and one crazy adventure. Blogging fascinates me because I was a ravenous journaler in my high school years. So, hopefully my rants may contribute positively to this big blogging world. Adieu

I'd like to think that my posting for that last couple of years has been a positive force in the blogosphere...I know it has been on me. I have a great group of women I respect and read regularly. Who knew making friends online was this much fun!

Do You Ever...

...eat things just to spite your stomach? I am! After having the flu last week, I've been eating the best gaseous foods I can find. I figure you have to whip that thing back into shape!

Let's Talk About Grey's

Just finished watching last week's episode of "Grey's Anatomy" streamed online. (streaming is the best thing since Cheese Whiz!)
They've had some so-so episodes lately, but this one was good! Here are the things that made it good:
-Bailey finally getting the position...love watching that woman cry.
-Lexi and Meredith working on their relationship. I really like Lexi
-The storyline of the father and adopted baby...made me cry.

What part did you like?

"I Was So Mad"

The group I'm facilitating is studying Matthew 5-7. We talked about 5:21-26 last week and it got us thinking about anger and its depths. It's easy for me get irritated and let it build without realizing it. I in this passage of scripture, Christ puts anger in its rightful place as something that can kill. How many people have their souls killed when someone is angry at them and isolates them by making them feel small? Isolation is the opposite of heaven and community...community being the undercurrent of all that the NT talks about.
I forget too easily how emotions are "felt" by those in contact with us without us having to directly talk about the issue. My kids help me see that a lot...though they are often the catalysts for my peevishness as well.
So, I'm more aware of how quickly I allow my anger to turn from a quick emotion that disappears to a wall.

Contest of the Day

5 Minutes for Mom is hosting a huge Christmas giveaway http://www.5minutesformom.com/2571/christmas-2007/ . First contest is up, so check it out.

TV Update

Finally anonymous white guy (who wants to be overseas) bit the dust. I was impressed by how they got ride of him, just when I thought he'd stick around, he's a liar.
I'm beginning to think that's the whole theme of the show: Everyone's a liar, so don't trust anyone/anything ever. Hmmm, that's depressing, so hopefully that's not their point.
I loved that they had 2 cases going on AND that they have the old team continue to evaluate their issues.
I think the next person to go will be the Mormon...they've taken him about as far as he can go. I'm wondering at what point they'll stop knocking people off. Actually, I can see that being one of the future ways to get rid of one of the teammates...death.

Any thoughts, fellow Housers?

TMIAB: Little Inspirations.

When I think of the thing (or things) that inspire me the most, at this point in my life, I think of my kids. This wasn't always the case...because of the way I perceived motherhood growing up, I had associated the title of mother with angry martyrdom and depression.
Through a brilliant program at my church I was finally able to see the beauty intended in the title of mother and give it the positive light that it has.
All that to say, my kids inspire me to grow and change on a daily basis. In many little things they do and say I see so much of myself and how I can grow and become a more whole human being.
What a blessing it can be to look at my humanity and divinity through the eyes of these little people.

Non-Scrappy Happiness.

As you know, I went to a lodge for the weekend with 10 other women for a non-scrapping scrapbook retreat. I was in better company than last year with 5 of us not scrapping as opposed to 2 of us from last year. Another bonus this year was there being no snow, so we could actually enjoy the gorgeous outdoors.
I ended up vegging out a lot more than actually working this weekend, which was fine. I took a glorious bath and ate marvelous food and laughed at great stories. There were 4 babies along which didn't ruin things at all. I loved getting some cuddle action into my weekend.
The downer came yesterday when I got the same barfing illness my kids and apparently everyone else at church has had. So I spent some time kissing the toilet before the drive home.











This last picture is of my friend Lanell and I in our 70's sexiness for Halloween.

The Twilight/Puke Zone

I'm slowly walking out of the zombie and vomit-filled last couple of days. First one child and then the other would erupt...thankfully never at the same time. My stomach has had a dull ache to it over the last week to top it all off. Being dehydrated just made my son belligerent, if I told him red was red, he would yell and scream at me until I agreed that red was green. Yeesh!

All that to say, I've been a bitch to my family the last 3 days. I didn't handle this round of upchuck well at all. Luckily, it's ending just in time for me to leave for my Scrapbooking weekend...where I don't scrapbook. Ten of my friends decided to rent this tricked out lodge in the Colorado mountains for them to do some hard core scrapbooking (the lodge has all the equipment included). I was asked to do it last year because they like me and we are all doing it again. So, while everyone else is hard at work creating awesome pages, I sit on my butt, tend the woodburning fireplace, sleep, take a bath, play guitar, read and eat fricking awesome food!

I will probably be incognito starting late tomorrow, but I am bringing the old laptop with me to see if I can piggy back onto someone's internet.

BTW, how many different words for barf did I use in this post? Anyone, anyone, Bueller?

5 Minutes Giveaway

Those gorgeous girls over at 5 Minutes for Mom are hosting a retro giveaway from Pedal Cars and Retro Collectibles http://www.pedalcarsandretro.com/. Check out their products and try for a sweet prize! http://www.5minutesformom.com/2545/pedal-car-giveaway/

Contests of the Day

The Rookie Blogger http://therookieblogger.com/2007/10/28/lets-get-things-rollin/ is jonesing for more input and traffic at his blog. Head over there and check it out, leave a comment and you could win $50.

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At Home in Alaska http://waynehunt.com/happenings/?p=593 is hosting a giveaway of Alaskan Birch Ulu Knives in conjunction with the Fall Y'all Bloggy Giveaway

It's Been A Hard Day's Night

I love those late night premonitions...you know the one: The one where your son comes in to your bed and you KNOW barf is going to come flying out of that mouth in 30 seconds. Unfortunately I didn't run his little body to the bathroom fast enough for our bedroom floor to not be graces with carrots. Why isn't there a good smell to vomit?!

As soon as he's in the tub I start triaging: "Hmmm, chunks on floor need to be up first, baking soda, vacuum, clothes soaking in washer, give son reassuring smile so he knows he's not an awful person." The cycle started at 1 AM and barf made an appearance at least once an hour until 8 AM.

Just Like Fara Fawcett

We had a Harvest Carnival at our church on Friday night. My loverly sister happened to be in town, so she got to be the third person in 10 years to attack my mop with a curling iron. Went well until she scalded my neck...the pain was worth the awesome flip I had to my hair.

The Carnival was a rocking good time. Dance, Dance Revolution was my favorite.

Elk update: Hubby went out alone today (got up 3am) and has until sundown to fill his tag.

Printer Contest

Two Moms In A Blog http://twomomsinablog.com/?page_id=1562 is hosting a contest to win a Kodak EasyShare 5300 All-in-one printer. Sweet prize, eh?

Birthday Post

I'm enjoying the party over at "From Dates to Diapers". She's asking us all kinds of birthday related questions that I love answering. So here's my latest party post.

When I was younger I would always ask for angel food cake. Not made with your typical fruit on top, but with this amazing brown sugar frosting. As I got older, my sister and I only wanted Creme De Menthe cake. It's white cake mix with creme de menthe mixed in. You spread fudge sauce and whip cream on top. So yummy!

One thing I loved about birthdays in our house was that we could pick out whatever we wanted as our birthday dinner. I know this sounds gross, but I always (even into my teens) asked for Tuna Fish Casserole. My mom has the magic touch when it comes to casseroles, and this was her specialty. My friends would come over for playdates praying that she'd serve it for lunch!

I love party games...hey, I'm highly competitive! In jr. high, my friends and I discovered the magic of Bunko. Last year was by far my best birthday in years. I had seven of my girl friends over to play poker. I love that my friends (most non players) were so willing to play with me.

The Meanest Mom

Sometimes I have days when I'm all about me...and the kids unwittingly get the shaft. These are the days when I set the timer for rest time, and SOMEHOW (couldn't be me?!) 20 minutes seems to last 2 hours. I'm the mom who will sometimes stick them in the corner for minor infractions just so I can take a breath.
My daughter would say I'm SO MEAN because I don't let her play outside past 7:30 and how dare I put her to bed at 8:00 every night.
I've had my spells over the years of almost daily meanness. Back when I was suffering from some post-partum depression and too much time indoors. I'm glad that most (wish I could say all) of my mean mom moments are all in their heads.

House Is On Fire!

Soooo...who watched "House" last night? I did, I did!!! I really was questioning whether the writers would be able to pull things out after they got rid of his team last season. They have done an amazing job...I'm hoping the show has a big enough budget to keep a lot of the characters that are on the show now.
I really didn't want them to get rid of the non-doctor and would've preferred to see non-descript youngish white guy to leave...I think he's next. Kal Penn is just fun to have around. I'm glad that the old team is still dipping their hands in as well.
They are asking a lot of religious-based questions this season...I don't agree with all of their answers, but I like that they're blunt about it.

Any thoughts, fellow House lovers?

The Elk Update

Hubby called me late last night: his brother has shot a cow (for those non-hunters, that's a female elk, not a "moo, moo"). They plan on switching up their strategy today in hopes of getting the Big One, wherever he's been hiding for the last 6 years.

Jason looked at me before he left and said, "I've been trying to do this (shoot a bull elk) for 16 years. Have you ever done anything for 16 years?!"
Nope, can't say that I have...but I CAN say I wouldn't want to.

Remembering My Self Today

Do you ever wake up to your Self and realize you've been living on auto pilot lately? I've been on Life Auto Pilot...just coasting without really "feeling" anything if you know what I mean.

I hate that I'll fall back asleep soon and forget about my Self.

Contest

The Domestic Diva http://thedomesticdiva.org/blog/2007/10/21/contest-dyson-pink-vaccuum/ is giving away a pink Dyson vacuum cleaner. I keep trying to win one of these because my vacuum *ahem* sucks. Check it out!

War in the Church

My hip is very, VERY sore today...I took a beating yesterday.

Our church has 5 different house churches that meet weekly. Once a year we try and take each other out in fun ways. Relays, bottle drinking challenges, riddles...and the ultimate game: Musical Chairs! All of us women in the church know how serious this game is...we've made it a contact sport at various women's parties over the last 2 years. Of course I volunteered to go in for my team. I bumped out enough butts to make it to the final 6. The music stopped and I hip-checked one of the other pastor's wives out of the chair. She, by rights, picked me up, dumped me on the ground, and sat on me. Everyone was howling in laughter and I conceded the seat.

This, my friends, is one reason I love our church.

My Most Memorable Birthday

(shout out to the From Dates to Diapers crowd!)
I grew up in a rough and tumble neighborhood full of boys. Because of this and my being homeschooled I didn't make friends with any girls until I was 10. That year I made 2 girl friends and I was so happy. My mom was pretty excited as well because she could finally throw a slumber party for my birthday.
The cake was amazing...my friends and I all got to decorate a part of it. The main course was my favorite pizza from Pizza Hut. Just as we three girls got down to the best part of the party (Truth or Dare anyone?) I felt my stomach start to rumble. I was able to ignore it for all of three minutes before I hit the porcelain. There was my beautiful cake and the glorious pizza.Not only did I not get to digest my food, but my mom QUARANTINED me from my own party! Nothing worse than listening to your friends giggling without you.
BTW, I HATE that pizza place now.If y'all would like to write about your birthday memories and possibly win a prize, head over to From Dates to Diapers http://ooohpickmepickme.blogspot.com/2007/10/surprise-giveaway-day-one.html .

Hanes Giveaway!

Homemom3 http://homemom3.blogspot.com/2007/10/giant-hanes-giveaway.html is giving away a prize package from Hanes www.hanes.com/kids . Go check it out!

Menopause is Too Far Away

Had one of those scares today. You know the one, the one where you go to King Soopers lugging around your 2 almost in school full time kids looking for the cheapest pregnancy test. Coming home and locking the bathroom door trying to come to grips with the remote possibility (Didn't they tie those tubes well enough?!). AND sighing in relief when its a big fat negativo!

This is the downside to having my kids early. I have a potential of 15 more years of pregnancy possibility. When I had my tubes tied they mentioned that given my age there's always a chance they may just GROW BACK TOGETHER! What?!!! So, all that to say, I need to keep my bathroom stocked with a couple pregnancy tests. Does anyone else keep a couple of those handy just in case?

The best laid plans of mice and tubal ligation...hmph!

(BTW, Blogger seems to be messing with me today, this was posted on Thursday evening)

Blog About Your Blog Contest

Blog About Your Blog http://blogaboutyourblog.com/2007/10/17/win-great-prizes-from-bidvertiser-and-bayb is holding a contest sponsered by Bidvertiser http://www.bidvertiser.com/bdv/BidVertiser/bdv_publisher.dbm . Bidvertiser is running a promo where you can get $20 worth of free advertising for new advertisers. Check out the contest and its sponsor.

(This was posted Thursday 10/18, but Blogger seems to be having issues)

"The Man" Is Such a Drag

While talking with my women's group tonight I was reminded of how much I hate authority figures. I loath know-it-all people in positions of authority. I am not over confrontational with them, but I seeth under the service and wish that their toes would become piles of green fungus!

I KNOW many of my authority dislikes are ridiculous and really (and I mean really) unfounded. Here's some you may recognize:

Rush Limbaugh: My dad was/is thoroughly devoted to this man's radio show. I was swamped by his voice from a young age and watched my dad wear his "Ditto Head" shirt and say his catch phrases for years. The man just thinks its his way or no way. In my late teens I listened to him because he was the only man I knew who talked about politics. I'm not sure this one is entirely misplaced.

Bill O' Reilly: He is just so cutting and rude! Once again, the man thinks he knows it all.

Dr. James Dobson: Are you shocked? My mom followed his advice religiously (maybe slightly legalistically) while we were growning up...so, I decided all my mom's fears were his fault. Granted, as an adult I realize his intentions are really good, but the man is still a menace to my senses.

I think what it comes down to for me is that anyone who sets themself up as the person with all the answers is awful. I only believe one Person to have all the answers and it just so happens He created all the questions. Anyone who says otherwise is itching for a fight (NPR anyone?).

How does this go over with my hubby since he's kind've one of the know-it-alls? Well, he loves me and my opinion and I've found that he's usually right. Oh yeah, and we don't talk politics :0)

Contests

Blessed Nest http://blessednest.blogspot.com/2007/10/spoonsisters-go-pinkoctober-give-way.html is doing a giveaway with the Spoon Sisters in support of Breast Cancer Awareness.

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Romance Tracker http://www.romancetracker.com/win-100-easy-bucks-in-the-romance-tracker-love-contest/ is giving away $100 to one lucky entrant.

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Mamanista http://www.mamanista.com/2007/10/win-wireless-keyboard-mouse.html is teaming up with Best Buy to give away one of the Rocketfish Bluetooth Wireless Keyboards!! http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=8326956&type=product&id=1175388722621
I really would love one of these.

Contests of the Day

There's a cute shirt giveway on The Laughs Will Go On http://jonathanandandrea.blogspot.com/2007/10/uncommonly-cute-and-giveaway.html . The shirt comes from Uncommonly Cute http://www.uncommonlycute.com/ .

There's No Speed Limit in Montana, right???

FYI, that's not true and has never been true, but this is one of the most frequent questions I get about my birth state. I have tried to pull away from every Montana stereotype since I was young...and I've succeeded. But there is one purely hickish Montana aspect to me and my hubby...we're hunters.
We both went through hunter safety as soon as we were old enough and were taking practice shots on small animals long before that. I have fond memories of waking up at 3a.m. on opening day, drinking coffee, wading through a creek in the dark, climbing into a tree stand and waiting for something shootable to pass under my tree. I find my hubby's form of hunting involves too much walking for my taste, so I gave up hunting 5 years ago. Of course God would have me marry a hunter. So, hubby and I are in Montana for his annual antelope hunt with his brother and dad. I'm preparing myself for the smell of wild meat and a couple of days spent in my kitchen cutting said meat up and grinding it. Did I mention that in a week my BIL, FIL and hubby will be shooting two elk in CO???!!! Does anyone know how much meat that is?! A frickin lot for those of you who don't.
So hunting's on my mind and in my smell range and I have nothing but fond memories of it all.

Contest

Contest for Moms http://www.contestformoms.com/ablog.htm is hosting a contest to give away a Comfort Easy PC. Very cool toy

The Embarrassing Rendition of my Self

Today was a category 20 bad day. I lost it and yelled...a lot. I whined and screamed...I swore like a sailor within earshot of my kids. I whimpered and said I was giving up. What brought all this on?

Talking to car insurance companies over the accident I didn't cause BUT for which I got my first ever ticket. GRRRRRR!!!!

I don't do well with strangers, especially strangers who can increase our car insurance. So, I say the quickest answer that comes to my mind and generally use a tone of guilt when I'm innocent. I've never learned how to stick up for myself against "the Man", so I've stuck to "stickin it" to the Man in a passive aggressive manner.

My poor hubby still hasn't grasped that I fall apart under pressure and was a completely flabbergasted by my mental and emotional state today. As usual though he centered me when it was all over and told me to stop walking away from him after screaming at him instead of the insurance guy. *Sigh* Love that man.

Some Days

I wish I could peel back the 3-D layers of this world and see all the REAL-ity behind it. I would probably be able to see the reason for dreams. I would see the tendrils of both sides that curl through the house. I would react with perfect clarity to depths of every situation of the day.

Contests

Skimbaco Skimbaco - The Lifestyle: Win a 50$ Gift Certificate to Madallie! is givine away a GC to Madallie's store Madallie: A Children's Travel Store - Welcome which is choc full of great products.

Let the Little Children Come Unto Me

There seems to be a trend that has happened without us meaning to do it. The separation of church and child. Children have become synonymous with a lack of being able to hear God during bible studies and church services.

I LOVE Sunday school programs and babysitters who entertain the kids. I think there's a place and time for these things. But, I've noticed that some of us moms (myself included) get irritated or drop out of a group if the kids happen to be around in any way. What does that teach our kids? What does that teach us?

The reason I've been mulling this over is two-fold.
1. I've been praying once a week with another mother for 1 1/2 years and we have learned how to commune with the Father despite our 5 kids playing superhero or arguing right next to us.
2. I've known of people to refuse to continue in a bible study because the kids would be playing w/o a sitter.

I know there are kids that can't handle playing or listening during bible study or church and I'm not advocating the abolishment of babysitters and Sunday School. What I am saying is that we shouldn't train ourselves to be unable to hear God when our kids or someone elses kids are present. I'm sure during Christ's sermons there were plenty of kids running around making a ruckus. Maybe that's why the disciples turned the kids away from His presence. Maybe they were sick of all the unruly noise.

I bring this up because there's been a turnaround in my perspective on my kids' presence in church and how they see their parent's spiritual life.

Any thoughts or opinions?

Breast Cancer Awareness

5 Minutes for Mom http://www.5minutesformom.com/ is helping spread awareness about breast cancer by hosting a giveaway of the Casio Pink EX-Z75 digital camera http://www.casio.com/news/content/212A3C44-BD9D-4711-B426-B6AAC1D0A96A/ .

Contests of the Day

Simply Sweet Boutique http://www.simplysweetbowtique.com/store/Default.asp is hosting a giveaway http://mommymandy.blogspot.com/2007/10/halloween-giveaway.html. Anyone with little girls should check it out.

A Child Chosen http://achildchosen.com/the-first-giveaway/ is giving away a book all about sensory integration. Check it out! http://www.therapyshoppe.com/

The Blonde Mom Blog is giving away a DVD for those princess lovers in your life. http://blondemomblog.com/2007/10/04/disney-princess-enchanted-tales-dvd-giveaway/

Daily Contest Post

Simply a Woman's Blog http://www.mylilventure.com/contest/october-contest-giveaway/ is giving away some allergy fighting bedding. I want to win My Lil Venture’s October Giveaway because my son and I have terrible allergies and Colorado continues to aggravate them. AND we only have one pair of sheets for our bed!

Fashion Fling http://fashionfling.blogspot.com/2007/10/lets-go-nuts-giveaway.html is giving away some fabulous creme perfume. Not sure exactly what that looks like, but I'd love to find out.

Daily Dose of Freakout

Had a GREAT dream last night that my hubby's plane crashed and he died. It was one of those dreams that seems to go on forever in sorrow and pain and I woke up feeling weighted.
Also after a good 2 months of not wondering how things were going to get paid...we're back to that place this week. And I'm letting it sit and stew in my brain.
Never mind the virtual bazillion other times that we've had a financial week like this and God's taken us through. Never mind that it's been much worse almost all of those bazillion other times. I'd like to declare myself once again a groveling doubter...acting like the spiritual child I can be. Grrr.

On a completely different sonnet:
The statement, "She was so cute I could eat her!" always seemed like a saying for the crazy. Until this week. My son is suddenly the absolute cutest being on the face of the earth. Every positive or negative look is carved in the cast of an angel. And yes, I want to eat his cheeks.

Contests

Why Do Work Blog http://www.whydowork.com/blog/wdw-insider/131/ is giving away a new iPod Nano Video to one lucky entrant. Hop on over and check it out.

Moms Love Shopping is giving away a great costume for moms! http://momsloveshopping.com/win-a-miss-charge-it-halloween-costume-from-moms-love-shopping/ .

Sophistishe http://sophistishe.org/2007/10/01/kangaroodle-body-shop-giveaway-1/ is giving away a $25 gift certificate to Kangaroodle http://www.kangaroodle.com/ and coconut creme body wash!

Frickity Frick

Ah, Elliot, can't wait for your last season on "Scrubs." That being said, the peacock is definately getting most of my viewing time during the week.

Let's tackle Monday:
Heroes: What part are the hispanic twins going to play and what side are they going to be on? Sad for Parkman and the loss of his family. This show continues to remind me, as a believer, that there's more to all of us than meets the eye.

Journeyman: I'm still liking this show, but I'm concerned about the convoluted relationships there. Someone is bound to cheat and that bothers me. Definately a fun diversion show. Also, a show about finding the deeper meaning in your daily life.


Onto tonight's episode of "House". I was really skeptical after the loss of his three amigos, but they came at it in an amazingly novel way. The people wanted sidekicks and they got sidekicks!!! I have to think that Kal Penn's character is going to stick around. Love the old guy who's nothing technically a doctor. Wonder if House is realizing that is flagrant display of rule-breaking is getting him the patients and applicants he currently has.
Interesting twist too with the African American Mormon character.
Anyone else notice the writing on the blackboard, "Tesla was robbed!" Anyone else find that ironic considering House's attitude?? Brilliant show I tell ya.

5 Minutes For Mom Cyber Baby Shower!

The lovely ladies over at 5 Minutes for Mom ( http://www.5minutesformom.com/) are having a huge baby bash in celebration of their newborn and almost new born babies. Click over if you want to join in. I'll be answering some the questions they had on their blog.

Some of the prizes that interested me are the toys at Christian Toys for Boys and Girls and the Holly Rose Aromatherapy collection.

Caedmon's birth
Labor started off well with my second child. I went into labor on my birthday and I kept praying that the little guy would hold off until midnight so he could have his own birthday (he made it by 9 minutes!).
I sat around at home and told my hubby (who was working a night shift) and my daughter to go to sleep. By 8pm I couldn't stand it any longer and dragged both of their delirious hides to the car.
"Do you want me to drive," hubby asked sleepily.
I felt like my contractions were fine and told him I'd drive. Five minutes from the hospital I realized that women in labor ought not to drive. I puffed my way into a parking space and we booked it up the L & D floor.
The labor itself couldn't have gone better...besides my husband, a close girlfriend was in the room with me. After Caedmon came out the who had driven my friend to the hospital asked if he could come in and look at the baby. There this stranger was looking around at the cleanup and he pitches forward and faints! Luckily he had slumped into the side of a chair on his way down or he would've been hurting. Every time I spend time with my girl friend we still laugh over the poor shlub fainting.

London Bound

Wish I could say I was going to London...nope, just the hubby. This is his first overseas jaunt that wasn't a work (as in missions) trip. Someone asked me today why I'm not jealous; because I get to buy Halloween Hot Wheels and Littlest Pet Shop toys today, that's why! (Just ignore the sarcasm, it's the candy corn talking!)
I'm sitting here counting down the 45 minutes until "Heroes" starts!! I'll be posting a TV review probably tomorrow night after "House". How did people live before sarcastic TV doctors and people who could slice open heads and absorb their superpower?!

Girls Weekend

It was the Men's Retreat this weekend at our church. What do mom's do when their hubbies are gone?? Have a sleepover!!

The kids and I spent Friday night with my friend L. and her two kids. This is one of my favorite people because she's so fun and there's never a lull in the conversation. L. , knowing my hubby is not a drinker, got us wine coolers for the evening. And (because our guys always do it without us) we made nargila. Nargila is a Turkish water pipe that uses coals and flavoured tobacco. The tobacco comes in great flavours like mint, apple and cappucino!! After we got the munchkins to sleep we sipped Pomegranate Raspberry wine coolers, smoked apple tobacco, at cheddar popcorn and watched "Grey's Anatomy". What a great night of guilty pleasures!

Free Stuff and a contest

I think I've mentioned before how addicted I am to contesting...that also extends to free things. The Free Stuff Times ( http://www.freestufftimes.com/ ) is one of those sites that consolidates it all for you. It touts itself as having the most updated free stuff on the internet. I was impressed with the site and I know how much moms like free stuff. Also they're having a contest in connection with their site, you can find that here: http://www.freestufftimes.com/29/the-first-free-stuff-times-contest/

Bratz and Barbie...uh, Tanks and Bob the Builder?!

When I was a child my mom didn't allow us to have Barbies. She thought they led to an unhealthy view of body image. Luckily my tomboy self could've cared less...I just cared that she was denying the freedom of getting it.

Now as a mother I find myself coming up against a wall of my own. I love Barbie dolls!! This is only because Barbie has turned into a princess, mermaid, and fairy. If she were still just a Malibu girl, I'm not sure I'd like her or let my 5 yr old girl play with them.

I have told my daughter from the first day she walked into a toy aisle that she wasn't allowed to buy Bratz dolls. Here are the reasons I give her for this:
-Bratz implies a certain attitude by their name and I think everyone will attribute personality based on that word. I know the movies don't portray them this way, but the commercials portray a sassiness that makes me wary.
-The clothing is not good. If my daughter decides the majority of their clothing is "cool" and is okay I might have a problem with that. This is the same reason why I don't endorse the buying of My Scene Barbies.
-Bratz are teenagers and Barbie is college age or older. I'd like to think by playing with Barbie girls are living out the possible adults they'd like to be (vet Barbie, mermaid Barbie *see my dream list*). With Bratz they may be projecting what kind of teenagers they want to be.

Thoughts anyones??? I told my daughter we could revisit the Bratz discussion when she's 9 and I don't deny her the ability to play with them at a friend's house.

My other question is: Why are there no debates like this about boy toys?! Has anyone run into a bad influence toy for boys? Maybe my 3 yr old just hasn't gotten there yet.

House, M.D.

I watched the premiere of House tonight and was a little stumped. They can't continue to have House without a team, but why are the old actors still in the credits??? I'm pretty sure Omar Epps jumped to a different TV series.
Also, why would they throw such a big change into a show that's done so well?? If they don't do something soon they may just crash and burn as a show.

Just informed by hubby that our wheezing, skinless desktop doesn't have Microsoft Word on it. What?!!! I didn't even know that was possible. That means I get to make an extra trip today to the church...all to type up Bible study stuff for tonight.
Have I told you how excited I am about this Bible study that I'm facilitating. With as much prayer as went into this group I have high hopes.

PJ Mommy http://pjmommy.com/?p=360 is giving away a ring and a surprise necklace over on her site. Contest ends Oct. 3rd.

TV Roundup

I'm so excited for this week...new shows have begun!!! Watched "Heroes" last night and was shocked to realized I'd forgotten a lot of what happened in the finale. I'm excited for the possibility of Claire having a friend with powers. Really curious to see what happens with Nathan and Peter.
Stuck around to watch "Journeyman" and was pleasantly surprised. I love anything with a taste of sci-fi to it. It asks some interesting questions and I'd like to see if they take any of those big questions anywhere meaningful. Kept flipping over to "13 Going On 30" mainly because I think Mark Ruffalo is so cute. Reminds me a lot of my hubby. :0)

In other news, my daughter is singing, "...and the chicken played ballet, and the chicken played ballet, and the chicken played ballet..." you get the picture!

Contests of the Day

Bling on a Shoestring http://blingonashoestringjewelry.com/blog/ is giving away a great ring and wants to know one reason humanity doesn't suck. We don't suck because we occasionally do exactly what we ought to be doing.

5 Minutes For Mom is giving away 3 stylish backup drives for your computer. Check it out! www.5minutesformom.com

Cool Moms Rule http://coolmomsrule.blogspot.com/ is giving away some fantastic lotion today. Lotion is a big deal in a dry state like Colorado!

Prayer Request

My neighbor's are dealing with a lot this week. A movie called, "Into the Wild" is being released this week. It's about the death of my neighbor's brother. Pray for the whole family as they go through a lot of emotional rollercoasters this week.

They're So Sweet!

First things first, we finally ended the life of our dear laptop...may it RIP. We are relying on H.S. and our old computer (it's guts hang out all over for lack of a cover), so bear with me as I may/may not be sporadic in posting. On the plus side maybe hubby will have to tone down his computer hours a little.

Second things second, my visit to Minot (Dancer, do you know that bitty town?), ND went very well. I went to show my grandma love and she got the message loud and clear. Apparently at that point in one's life the things that mean the most are the company of loved ones. She has VERY swanky digs. It's a sweet assisted living facility that was built a scant 2 years ago. Opulent furnishings, pool, fitness center, coffee corner, dining room, chapel, pub, internet, library!! If getting old can be this nice now I can't wait for my turn as an oldie! Though, I'm sure, for my generation they'll have to add video games as an amenity.

I love hearing my grandma's stories over and over again...she's very frustrated with knowing that her brain is failing her. I can't imagine my sometimes forgetfulness turning into a permanent state.

Ruth is obsessed with "Littlest Pet Shop" toys and I fully endorse her obsession. But I've come to realize she's lost 1/3 of her animals!! Grrr...toys don't grow on trees! So, if you see a major discount on "Pet Shop" toys anywhere, let me know cause I'm starting the Christmas hunt for toys.

Mr. Fabulous from http://www.pointless-drivel.com/ is hosting a contest where the winner will have a choice of three prizes, from an Ipod Shuffle to a $75 Barnes and Noble giftcard (warning adult gift also an option). All you have to do to enter is vote for his blog as the best humor blog and urge your blog readers in a post to vote for him.

So a Blonde Walks in a Review ( http://blondereviews.blogspot.com/ ) is hosting a contest with a prize from Skimbaco ( http://www.skimbaco.com/ ) , a fabulous upscale boutique.

The Whole Family is have a giveaway for her 2nd blogoversaryhttp://thewholefamily1.blogspot.com/2007/09/my-2nd-blogaversary-give-away.html . Enter before Sept. 26th for a chance to win a $10 Target gift card.

Lastly, 5 Minutes for Mom http://www.5minutesformom.com/ is giving away a vacuum. I would love to win it as mine is the very cheapest model from Wally World and due to kick it any day now.

So Long, Farewell for Awhile.

I leave tomorrow for a quick trip to the state of North Dakota. My grandma has lived in the same ND city since my dad was a twinkle in God's eye. I love her because she was the "fun" grandma of my childhood. She would get us whatever we want and would give us the freedom to do or say whatever we wanted. She was my first access to the freedom of choice.
My goal on this visit is to continue to show her how much she's loved...I'm a little flummoxed on how to accomplish that, so pray that I'll be exactly what she needs the next 3 days.

Also, this will be one of the few times my hubby has the kids while I'm away. Usually he lucks out and the grandparents get the kids. I think lots of video games (mostly James Bond) and sleeping in my bed will be happening the next couple of days!

I love reusable bags and here's a contest where you can win a set! http://crunchydomesticgoddess.wordpress.com/

What I've Learned

It's been a very, VERY long three days for me. My super fun neighbor brought a 3-day cleanse to me and asked if I would do it with her. Between the less caffeine and the jogging I thought, "Hey, why not go all out." I'm on day three and I haven't never smelled so...er, herby and woody. I feel like birchbark tea is oozing out my pores.

So, here's a couple of things I've learned:

-I have stunk worse than I ever have after pork & beans.

-While drinking 3 cups of tea a day sounds good sometimes, reality is a bugger!

-Tofu is not nearly as scary as I think it is.

-Living w/o sugar added foods and dairy isn't as hard as I thought it was.

-When in pain, ad lib on the receipes.

-Shitake mushrooms are so good!!!

-Miso paste is the devil

I don't know how to say this delicately, but this whole thing is supposed to clean you out and produce a lot of waste. I haven't had that happen...other than being super stinky, my system has been normal. I can't decide if that means my system was already well-cleansed or if I'm having a system malfunction.

Emma from It's Write Now is giving away an ipod nano w/ video. Go to this post if you want to enter: http://www.itswritenow.com/category/networking/contests/ .

Diamonds May Be Forever...Rings are Not

It's finally happened...I've been waiting for this moment for the last 5 years. Jason has lost his 3rd wedding band. I wish that were a typo, but the man is now 0 for 3. Now, the first two were lost by no (direct) fault of his own.
#1-He and his friends were rafting. The boat capsized and they were almost fish sticks, but found a log to hang onto. In the cold water, the ring (by far our favorite band) slipped away to be found by some gold prospector (oddly enough we have those here in CO still).
He and I still wonder why he didn't think to take it off before they started rafting
#2-My dad loaned Jason a ring my grandma had given him. At that time, J was delivering pizzas and on one hectic and bad night he got mad...and threw a receipt out the car window. Bye, bye ring! No way to find that one on the weedy mile where he threw the ring. My dad was a good sport about the loaner lost.
Let that be a lesson about temper and rings
And now the latest story where the blame falls squarely on my dear hubby's shoulders.
Since he got ring #3, hubby has an irritating habit of playing with said ring and has dropped it on a number of occasions. Friends always watch him do this in horror and we've all swore the man was going to lose it (He has the same problem of playing w/ fruit and dropping it).
While riding with a friend in his friend's van he was playing with the ring and, "Ping!" the ring fell under the seat. After 3 searches in 2 days the ring looks like a goner.
I'm a little pissed this time.
We are seriously considering getting him a tattoo ring band put on his finger. Thoughts
(Hubby just walked in and growled, "It's not lost, I just left it somewhere!")_

I'm a big fan of feeling sexy so I'm interested in this giveaway http://blondereviews.blogspot.com/
sponsored by http://www.lalalingerie.com/ .

Also, if you like being creative help them come up with a clothing line name and win a GC! http://www.lillepunkin.com/2007/09/naming-game.html

Lead and Toys

There's a contest being hosted that's doing more than handing out prizes. They are trying to get more government help on the lead content in toys. If you want to be a part of it click the button on the side of my page. The prize is being provided by Natural Pod http://www.naturalpod.com/ and they are doing their bit for the world. :0)

Mums the Wurd (http://www.mumsthewurd.com/ ) is doing another big giveaway, so check her site out! (Prize is a gift certificate to http://zutano.com/ for $150!)

Also, there's a scrapbooking contest going on that looks fabulous. Click the monkey button the side of my page if you're interested.

Enter to win the complete set of Terrestria Chronicleson the HSB Company Porch!
That's short and sweet don't you think? All winners will be chosen at random. You must be 18 years of age or older to enter. You must live in the U.S. You can view official contest rules HERE. Contest ends September 24th.

Rhyme Khyme

Oh son, my son, has been on this kick of rhyme (khyme, phyme) time for a couple of weeks now. It's still cute (sort've) and it's left my hubby and I shaking our heads wondering where he got the idea. I haven't heard the phrase, "Cutie patootie" since way back when Rosie was still in TV's good graces. I don't know if this is a future Eminem in the making or what, but it's really funny.
The other advantage is that all the name calling he does makes no sense: "Mom, you're a snooker tatooker!"


This week the rhyming is overlapping a phase of my daughter's. Her response to every (and there are many) disappointment with, "Aw, barnacles!" Thanks, Spongebob.

Parkour Anyone???

Happened to see this bit on some lame 60 minutes type show about this new craze called Parkour. Ya know how you see people effortlessly jumping through urban landscapes and generally looking like the sweet scenes from action flicks? Yeah, that's Parkour. Watching how poetic and fluidly strong these people looked as they leaped from building to building I thought, "Man if I weren't me, that would be sweet!"

That got me thinking of a couple other things I wish I could be if I weren't me. Before you tell me that I could potentially do these: I know that, but God hasn't had these particular things be a part of Me...yet. Who knows, maybe I'll be the first 50 year old parkour!

Here's my list of dreamy existences:
-Parkour athelete
-Backup dancer/singer for a pop star
-Mermaid (seriously, I need just one unrealistic one)
-Park ranger/nun
-Surgeon
-Jeopardy contestant who lasted a solid month (yeah, baby!)

Any fun/funky dreams out there?

Woo Hoo!

So excited am I...Over the last couple of days I won a couple of contests! Thanks to Cee Cee over at http://www.booksplurge.blogspot.com/ for such a great contest!

There's a book giveaway over at http://deenasbooks.blogspot.com/2007/09/first-best-of-giveawaychasing-fireflies.html a predominately Christian book review site.

It's Coming from your tubes

I am down to the season finale of "Big Love" and wasn't disappointed at all by the way they did this season. I still assert that it's one of the best written shows I've seen in a long time. Even my hubby who doesn't like the show admits that it's well written. After reading "Under the Banner of Heaven" the show seems even more ironic considering that polygamists are following everything that Joseph Smith laid down in the "D & C" Hi.ghly recommend that book if you need a crash course in Mormon history.

With the end of my polygamist summer, I am counting down the days until the fall show line up starts. I also need to tell you I don't have the fancy cable channels (i.e. HBO, Showtime)

My Can't Miss Shows:
-Heroes
-CSI
-House
-Scrubs (Last season folks)
-The Office

Show's That are Hanging by a Thread:
-ER (If it weren't medical I wouldn't even think about it, plus I have some fondness for all the good seasons)
-Grey's Anatomy (Give me a happy, stable couple please ya hosers!)
-Desperate Housewives (I don't even know why I'm still watching)


What shows are you eagerly waiting for in late September?

Picture Post

I just thought I would regal y'all with interesting (read weird!) pictures of our family. Also, here are pics of Ruth on her first day of kindergarten!

Family

Over the weekend we were in TN for the wedding of J's grandpa. His wife died of cancer 2 years ago. For the last 2 years he's done many things he never would've otherwise done. Now, he's marrying a wonderful lady (widow) and is on the marriage horse again.



As some of you know, I'm not into weddings...didn't have one of my own cause they're not my cup 'o tea. Well, sitting in the B&B and watching the amount of caring family that gathers around these two old lovebirds made me feel like this is the way wedding ought to be done. They've been through a lot and know a lot of what they're getting into by saying those vows to each other. They had great-grandchildren there to cheer them on!! I think J and I renewing our vows on our 25th or 30th anniversary would hold so much more weight than any ceremony we could've done at the beginning.



With this gathering of family came the usual fights and outbursts that I've come to expect from this family. Some new struggles were voiced by my SIL that made me sad.

Had to give in on coffee yesterday when we got back to CO...I had been up since 3am and was afraid that other shoppers in Target were thinking I was a drunk mom pushing my kids through the grocery section. But I'm back on the sans-caffeine wagon today...yeah for me (use a flat tone).