Empress4 - Journey to being multi-talented

Opening night TONIGHT!

2011-09-16T08:44:00.000-07:00

Wow, I cannot believe it, after all the hard work we have opening night tonight for 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz'.

I remember hearing about the show earlier this summer. Initially I thought, that would something fun for me to do. Then I realized this was something the 2 older kids and I could do together. Well Jeffrey didn't want to do it (he isn't a big fan of Oz) but Samantha was all over the idea of being in a play. I had not been in a play since I was in high school and was in plays at school and musicals at the temple, but I remembered how much I loved it. Well we auditioned and Samantha got cast as a munchkin and a field mouse, I got cast as a munchkin and a winkie. Starting the beginning of August we practiced 2-3 times a week. While sometimes the practices were tiring and sometimes I came home sore (moving a house can do that to you!), I also have had such a blast. Honestly being a parent can sometime be hard, but at practice I could be Melissa (there wasn't much parenting I had to do for Samantha when we were at practice). This week has been tech week and anyone who has ever done a play knows how much work it is; now, after all that hard work it is SHOWTIME! Last night we had our final dress rehearsal and it seemed to go well, I am hoping that tonight is even better.

So to everyone in the cast, BREAK A LEG! And thank you for all the fun!

C-Ya!

9/11 - I remember

2011-09-09T09:48:00.000-07:00

10 years ago, on 9/11/01 I turned 22 years old. 10 years ago there was no blogs or facebook or twitter, no place where I really wrote down all my thoughts on that day. I think it has taken 10 years for it really to hit me. Looking back on all the highs and lows that has since happened, it is like it has all washed over me as a wave. This is what I remember from that day 10 years ago.

I remember waking up on 9/11/01, the sun was shining and the weather had just a touch of fall in the air. I was no longer 21. I put on one of my favorite outfits, excited for however work was going to celebrate my birthday that day. I got on bus 677 at around 7:30am (central) taking me from Mound, MN to downtown Minneapolis to my full-time job at WCCO-TV. Like I did most mornings I sat down about halfway back on the bus and put my headphones on to listen to some of the local radio morning shows (I usually flipped between K102, KS95 and KDWB). I am sure I was reading something, maybe some of the newspaper. Somewhere along 394 going east near St. Louis Park I heard the most disturbing thing on the radio. They had a TV on and they were reporting that an explosion or something happened to the World Trade Center, then they said a plane had hit the other tower. They did not know what was going on.
One of the biggest images of that day then happened. I remember looking up on the bus at everyone just sitting there, I didn't notice anyone else with headphones on, and I thought to myself, they do not know that the world as we know it has just changed. As I was looking around I also looked out the front window at downtown Minneapolis with that sun shinning bright and thought about how serene it looked compared to another downtown right now.
We got to downtown, I hopped off the bus at Nicollet Mall and 11th and ran into the front door at WCCO. There in the front lobby I had my first glimpse on the TV of what I heard on the radio. Not long after, they lockdown that front door and would not let anybody use that entrance for months. I ran upstairs to my desk, dropped off my stuff and started watching one of the TVs we had in our area. One of the TVs I could see if I stood up in my cubical, the other was behind a friend's desk. I remember standing at that TV when my friend told me Happy Birthday. Eventually we got word about the plane in the Pentagon and about another plane. Where was that plane headed when it went down, we did not know. We wondered if the attacks were done.
Working at a TV station it was kind of crazy... I worked with commercials and as many can remember we had wall to wall coverage for days. Being local TV we really didn't have to worry about what was on (except for the local news break ins) but we never knew when we would stop covering it. We spent many hours just staring at the TVs not knowing what to do. I remember during that time calling my Mom at work, making sure she knew what was going on. And I talked to my husband who was out mowing lawns, to find out what he knew. I do not remember eating lunch that day, but I must have.
Eventually our department head said we could go home. My co-workers said we could celebrate my birthday tomorrow. Because I had taken a bus I had to wait for the 676 bus to go home (now not available) which meant a longer trip home. I of course listened to the radio the whole way home, but there was no new news. And I went home to do what I had been doing all day, watching TV.
In a way I was thankful that we had celebrated my birthday as a family (at TGIFridays) the weekend before, no one would have wanted to celebrate that night. I know that I spent many days in shock, I do not even remember crying at that time. When the tragic events happened I knew no one that had died that day, 10 years later I have met a few people who lost loved ones. It almost made me feel sheltered living in the Twin Cities.
Does it suck having your birthday on 9/11? Yes, it does. But someone has a birthday every day... it just so happened that mine was that day. Has it been hard celebrating in the years since? I remember spending the first anniversary just very depressed but it has gotten easier.
One piece of joy happened that September. It turns out right before the attacks I got pregnant. Later on that month I found out I was going to be a mother for the first time and 9 months later, on May 21, 2002 I gave birth to Jeffrey. He is finally old enough to talk to about what happened when he was the size of a pea inside my tummy. Since then I have brought 3 other children into this world. But I have also had to say Goodbye to many loved ones (including our fathers). Maybe that is why this year has hit me so hard... so much has happened since that day.

Now 10 years later on 9/11/11 I will wake up 32 years old. I will go to church for mass (since it is Sunday). I will try to spend sometime at the Incredible Festival. I will probably have play practice. I will not forget where I was 10 years ago. I will never forget.

First day of school blues!

2011-09-05T11:22:00.000-07:00

I remember as a kid the dreams started about a month before school starts... they even continued after I graduated college. You know the dreams... some version of going to your first day of school and not being ready. Well ready or not, that first day of school is tomorrow!
Not for me though... for my kids.
This year Jeffrey will be in fourth grade, Samantha will be in second and Carter will be a new preschooler. For the first time in a few years I will be down to one kid three mornings a week at home!
Are we all ready for tomorrow? Mostly. Most of the school supplies have been dropped off at school, the shoes have been purchased and the uniforms tried on. We need to just get a few more things together, wash off the gym shoes and pack it all up in their backpacks.
Are the kids ready? Mostly not. They would love to stay home and hang out and not go to school!
Is Mom ready? YES! This has been quite the summer with the kids not always getting along, I think they need the separation that school will bring (even if J & S's classroom doors are just across the hall from each other).
So tomorrow we will all wake up and bring the 2 oldest to the bus stop. Wednesday we will go to Carter's preschool open house and Friday will be the first day for him. Some wonder if Elizabeth will be ok with all of them gone, for some reason I think she will be just fine!
Happy New School Year!

C-Ya!

New blog!

2011-09-01T20:07:00.001-07:00

I have started another blog! This is in conjunction with this one. It is at http://my365opinions.blogspot.com/. It is called 365 Opinions and is about the opinions I have about things.
I have one post right now, just a welcome message, but I hope to post a lot more often!
C-Ya!

Hurricane Irene

2011-08-26T08:27:00.000-07:00

I cannot grasp the idea of a hurricane.
Now before I go on, I do agree with the severity. I truly hope everyone out there has taken the precautions neccessary in the wake of this hurricane. This sounds like it will be quite the disaster.
That said... I was born in Minnesota and have lived here all my life. I have never been in a hurricane or an earthquake. I have never had to board up my house or evacuate 50+ miles to get away from a weather event. We have tornadoes in Minnesota, and while some of come close to me, I have never been in one.
I cannot imagine what many of my friends are going through right now, just like I couldn't imagine all those years ago with Hurricane Katrina.
I will be praying for all of you on the East Coast, please listen to officials and stay safe.

C-Ya!

The Absence of a Dream

2011-07-31T17:33:00.000-07:00

Off and on I, like I am sure a lot of you, have read one or more of those self help books. Right now I have started "Unlimited" by Jillian Michaels. I thought since she fascinates me on "The Biggest Loser" I would give this book a whirl. And it has an online worksheet (http://www.jillianmichaels.com/unlimited) that you can answer questions after every chapter. Unfortunately I am thinking soon I am going to hit a roadblock. See in chapter 2 it starts talking about having specific dreams and visions for you life and the basics to visualizing it.
But what do you do if you don't have a specific dream? I mean yea, there are things I would like to do before I die ("bucket list") and there are dreams I have for my kids (but they are really not something I have an impact on, per se)... But I cannot think of a specific dream for myself. It is like when I try to sit and think about that my mind goes blank. Of course I have general dreams like living forever (well a very long time) and being financially comfortable, but really, don't we all?
*sigh* Even Nick seems to have some dreams, but those are his dreams... I need some of my own.
Has anyone ever felt like that? Any ideas on how to fix this?

C-Ya!

RIP Scooter

2011-07-23T14:54:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday (July 19, 2011) we lost one of our 4 legged pets. Scooter, the Chihuahua, was about 12 years old and probably died of old age or congestive heart failure or something.

Scooter initially was my father-in-law's dog, I remember when he got him when Nick and I were engaged. He officially moved in here in May of 2004 when Gar moved in with us. 2 years later we moved him upstairs when Gar died and he became a real member of the family (even if it was reluctantely by Nick). I really took care of him the last 5 years because I was really one of the only ones that he liked. Otherwise he was pretty anti-social and would hang out in his kennel a lot of the day.
Scooter's favorite thing was sitting and laying in the sun (he was a Chihuahua after all). He loved the occasional treat or fallen food scrap that Lucy wouldn't get to. He was a barker, would bark at almost anyone coming to our house (but me). The house is definetly quieter with him gone.
I had a feeling this day was coming soon. Earlier this year he started hacking a lot. Then about a week and a half ago on a Sunday he showed signs he wasn't doing well. He could hardly walk and would hardly eat. We ended up feeding him wet food to get him to eat something. He seemed to get better from that, but was still even skinnier then he use to be. I will say I was still surprised to open his kennel on Tuesday and for him to not come out.
He is now up in heaven with Gar, as well as our dogs, Mandi, Mollie and Maggie. I know he will be well loved up there.

C-Ya!

15 places

2011-03-25T17:35:00.000-07:00

I know again that I have been away from my blog for awhile. I really think I should, and then I don't, write. Life hasn't exactly been easy lately... every year at this time it is like this.

Anyways, I am copying this from my friend Heidi's blog. She and I saw this article on CNN called 15 places kids should see by age 15 and she commented about at twice that age (and a Canadian as well) she had seen 4 of those places. I know that when I read that article I thought that I doubt my kids will see close to even half of those by then. At this point the only place they have been to is Walt Disney World. So I thought I would go through and add where I have been.
Here is the list:
1.Grand Canyon - Arizona
2.Redwood National Park - California
3.Monticello - Virginia
4.The Freedom Trail - Massachusetts
5.Niagara Falls - New York
6.The National Mall - Washington, D.C.
7.Williamsburg - Virginia
8.Walt Disney World Resort - Florida
9.Independence Hall - Pennsylvania
10.Alcatraz Island - California
11.Ellis Island - New York
12.Yellowstone National Park - Wyoming, Montana and Idaho
13.Fenway Park - Massachusetts
14.Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve - Idaho
15.San Diego Zoo - California

Funny, the National Mall and Ellis Island were both part of a confirmation class trip. Otherwise I have been to WDW 3 times. I almost went to the San Diego Zoo when I was there, my sister lives there so I have been pretty close. Of the other places I would be most interested in seeing Monticello, Williamsburg and Independence Hall since they have to do with the history of the United States. I will say, I doubt I will see all 15 myself unless we win the lottery and decide to rent a motorhome across the country.

C-Ya!

BzzCampaign: Stouffer's® Corner Bistro® Stuffed Melts and Soups

2011-02-07T07:59:00.000-08:00

Hey all,
I just recently got this bzzcampaign for Stouffer's Corner Bistro.. check it out here facebook.com/stouffers . I got a bunch of coupons (so locals let me know and I can give you some) and cannot wait to try it out. Anything to make lunch quick and easy on the days my kids are pulling me in multiple directions (that doesn't include PB&J)!! Also, for anyone.. you can like them on facebook and try to win a free coupon as well. I think the combination of soup and sandwich will be yummy on a cold winter's day. Cannot wait to try it!

Thanks!

C-Ya!

CoverGirl Bzz Campaign

2011-01-07T12:21:00.000-08:00

This is the newest bzzcampaign I signed up for ... the new COVERGIRL 50th anniversary campaing... If you like CG come check it out!!

C-Ya,
Melissa

T. Y. Caribou

2010-08-12T17:36:00.000-07:00

Thank You Caribou... for putting out a $2 any cold drink, any size, just for today, coupon. I didn't realize I needed a sugary (decaf) coffee this evening... but since I was out, I guess I did.

Ehh.. guess it is ok to treat myself once in awhile!!

C-Ya!

My fellow MOMS

2010-08-11T11:08:00.000-07:00

Last night was MOMS night out... we went on someone's boat. It was the first MNO since Ella was born that I didn't take her with. And it was awesome!!
I will be honest, when I joined MOMS club just over 4 years ago I was very worried. I thought it would be filled with a bunch of rich Moms who got to be SAHMs because of that and had the attitude to go along with it. Instead I found many others like me who are SAHMs because they wouldn't take home much money after paying for day care and Mothers who scrape by because they want to raise their kids (disclaimer: I had the 2 oldest in day care and don't have anything against it). Oh sure... there are some whose husbands make a lot and live in nice houses, but you wouldn't be able to tell because they are the nicest ladies. I am on the board for the third time because I really believe in the group. And they have been there for me, from celebrating the births of my third and fourth child, to being a shoulder when I lost my father, and even have helped watch my kids.
It is no secret (on here) that I have been down in the dumps... but for 3 hours last night I didn't think about my problems and enjoyed my time!!! Thanks gals!

C-Ya!

This is where I left my blog....

2010-08-10T12:14:00.000-07:00

Hey... I knew I left my blog somewhere... I guess life has gotten even crazier. Since the last time I wrote I became the mom of a fourth child! Elizabeth was born on January 19, 2010! Of course I haven't posted it because I want to do a formal post with pictures and info... but that is for another day.
Life hasn't been easy lately. It is amazing how lonely one can feel in a house full of people (and pets) but is has. Maybe I need to write stuff out and get back to blogging. Maybe that can be my therapy.
:(

C-Ya!

Samantha is 6!

2009-10-28T20:29:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my 2nd child, my daughter Samantha. Today she turned 6!! :D

Cub Scout Wreath's for sale... ORDER DUE TODAY!

2009-10-20T07:11:00.000-07:00

Ok... I am quite the procrastinator... Jeffrey has to turn in his Cub Scout wreath order tonight and I haven't had him selling... so if you want one please reply to me by 6pm and I will either pick up your money today or spot you.
26 in wreath $18
36 in wreath $29
48 in wreath $41
25' garland $31
swag $18
spruce tips $19

We will be picking them up on November 21 and I will deliver them to you

Hey - crazy!

2009-07-13T12:08:00.001-07:00

Hey all,
Just posting to say I am still out there. Life has certainly been beyond crazy. Unfortunately I don't have the time for even a quick update but lets just say we certainly are on one roller coaster ride. I do post on facebook so that is a great place to find me, otherwise I hope you are doing well out there.

C-Ya!

2009-02-27T17:13:00.001-08:00

Now I am using ping.fm's mobile feature

2009-02-27T17:08:00.001-08:00

Ok... just trying the ping.fm status feature!

Holiday Card 2008

2009-02-01T08:21:00.000-08:00

Yes, it is over a month since Christmas, we did send these out a couple weeks before Christmas. But since traditionally I also post it to my blog, here you go....

I wish to say that 2008 was even better then 2007, but unfortunately that was not the case in the Pickert Household.
We started out the year with a huge loss. Melissa’s father, Ken, died from Multiple Myeloma (cancer). Losing another parent has been devastating and we really miss him. For those that never had a chance to meet Ken, he was such a wonderful man whose favorite things were his Grandchildren and good conversation.
Unfortunately, a couple months later we also loss our little dog Maggie when she was hit by a car. She was an awesome dog and Nick and Melissa miss her sleeping between their heads at night.
And in the “death comes in three” categories, Melissa’s Grandma also died in September from Dementia.
We did bring a new life into the house. In March we did get a new Shih Poo, Lucy. And while she will never live up to her older sister, Maggie, she is a pretty good dog, especially around Carter.
Nick was busy with work again. Pepperberry Gardens even was part of a booth with Stonepocket at the Midwest Fall Home & Garden Show and even won “best landscape booth”. You may have even seen him on WCCO-TV talking about it. At church, Nick started his term as Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus and safely installed a 48,000 pound boulder outside in the front of Our Lady of the Lake Church.
Melissa has been enjoying staying at home but recently did take a temporary job. She is still active in MOMS club and her quest to visit every site on the internet!
Jeffrey is an active first grader who loves math and music and is not such a fan of writing in school. He recently joined Cub Scouts. He still loves to do anything outside, and even is our household’s snow shoveler.
Samantha is enjoying her last year of preschool and loves to color and write words. She started dance this year and is our little social butterfly.
Carter turned one on Halloween and is really giving us a run for the money. He walked and got his first teeth before he turned one (before his brother and sister did) and gets into everything. He loves being with his family and getting all the attention. He is starting to make sounds and we swear he can say mama, dada and up!
Ole Scooter the Chihuahua is still trying to be our guard dog. And Max got to enjoy a hunting trip to South Dakota (with Nick and Jeffrey).
We are hoping 2009 is filled with adventure and good fortune.
Merry Christmas Love,
Happy Hannukah Nick, Melissa, Jeffrey, Samantha & Carter,
Happy New Year Max, Lucy & Scooter

Ok...Ok..

2009-01-31T12:00:00.000-08:00

Did so well in November and then sucked it with writing since then... so this is my obligtory January post... will post more "tomorrow"

C-Ya!

Its New Year's Eve..

2008-12-31T21:38:00.000-08:00

.. and Nick and I are sitting here on each of our laptops watching Dick Clark's special. As you can see I never did the choose joy challenge. It has been hard to choose joy this holiday season. Though some special and some anon people did help Christmas be better for the kids and us.
Even so, I am in a funk. Thirteen days from now it will be one year since my father left this world and it is really effecting me. In one way I am so upset to be getting close to that "anniversary" but in another way I am happy to be 20 min away from being out of 2008 and all the misery it has brought to my life. We need a good 2009.
I do still need to post my Christmas letter and card... will do that sometime... I have been rather tired with working and all.
For those of you out there, Happy New Year.

C-Ya!

Choose Joy: December's Blog Challenge

2008-12-02T16:23:00.001-08:00

Midnight Scrapper has another great challenge... this one for December called "Choose Joy". Here is the challenge for those of you stopping by:

Okay, so you've heard the saying: "Choose Joy". I love the saying, but I must admit, it is not as easy as this two word sentence makes it sound. For the month of November, I challenged you all to find something to be thankful for and blog about it. I know it was hard, but I also know that it was not impossible. I had good news, bad news, a friend pass away, reunions with old friends and even some birthdays and holidays. I took the bad with the good and found something each day that I could be grateful for. We are certainly blessed!
So, if you are up for another challenge - here we go!
1. This will officially start on December 3rd and will end on December 31.
2. The challenge of this blog will be similar to our Gratitude Blog idea. Look for JOY each day and blog about it. It might be something as big as attending a wedding or as small as how cozy your slippers feel...it's up to you. CHOOSE to find joy.each.day.
3. There are a few extra challenges for this one too...don't worry - don't
stress....have fun! Those that complete the journaling AND the photos will be
able to be have their name in the drawing for the prize TWICE. Each week, you
must post at least 3 photos based on the themes I have chosen.
Week 1 (Dec. 1 - 6) - LOVE
Week 2 (Dec. 7 - 13) - RED
Week 3 (Dec. 14 - 20) -GLITTER/SHINE
Week 4 (Dec. 21 - 27) - FAMILY
Week 5 (Dec. 28 - 31) - PEACE
Now, I know some of you are about to throw in the towel on this one because you either don't like or know how to post photos on your blog or you are worried about finding pictures suitable for the theme.Well, you don't need to worry! I will help you! You can take pictures yourself (preferably), but if you have to - you can use stock
photos that are available free on line! If you don't know how to post a photo,
contact me and I will walk you through it! As far as finding pictures for the
themes...go with your own interpretation! You can have your regular photos of
course, but please include at least 3 each week that follow that week's theme.
4. If you are going to participate in this challenge - please comment in this post
(on my blog - not here) so I will know. I will check on your blogs as often as I
can. At the end of the month, you will need to come back here and follow the
directions for being entered into the drawing for the GIFT AWAY.
5. If you have any questions - please let me know. I tried to type this up as clearly as I could, but I do have two toddlers running around me at the moment (my JOYS). =]

So wish me luck... again I could really use to find the joy in my life.

C-Ya!

The Wii... talk us into it...

2008-12-01T19:01:00.000-08:00

Ok... talk me into a Wii...
I am leaning 75% towards getting it and have seen it a couple times but haven't bought it. The console and a couple extra items is more then we usually spend for the family on the holidays but I do have some garage sale money that I want to put towards it. As you can see the oldest kids are 6 and 5, which I have heard is a good age for it. And they do play and enjoy Uncle Aaron's DS. In a way I am being a little selfish because I want it. I have tried it too and had fun and was a little sore afterwards.
And once I am convinced I need to convince Nick... he is even less inclined to get it.. though I did say if we did he can get me the wii fit and I can have a smokin hot body!!!
Thanks!

C-Ya!

Last Month of 2008!

2008-12-01T16:21:00.000-08:00

Well here we are in December... as you see the "thankful" challenge is over but rumor has it midnight scrapper has a new one coming out. Till then I have some general thoughts...
*Congratulations Vikings on an awesome game yesterday! You really made football fun to watch and I am proud that you were one of just two home teams to win yesterday. We spent the first half watching the game at our friends up the block and then at halftime the kids and I went home so we could all get to bed and it was a lot of fun.
*Beware of Carter's teeth!! He seems to have gotten over the horrible teething (at least for right now) but now we have to watch out because he wants to bite EVERYTHING and EVERYONE! I think Jeffrey and Samantha have each been bitten and he has nipped at me more then once. And it HURTS!
*This week is another busy one at night with something planned at least 3 out of 5 nights for one of us. With working now I am not always as excited to go out at night to various meetings.
*It was nice to have a LONG weekend. We spent much of the time doing some major house cleaning. Our recycling and trash guy are going to 'love' us as well as the Salvation Army!!! Nick was the most gung ho and has gotten rid of a bunch of stuff (though in my defense he really hadn't gone through a lot of it in years - whereas I had).
*I knew Thanksgiving was going to be hard this year with my Dad gone and I was right. Ever since the beginning of last week I have been in a funk. Unfortunately I doubt it is going to let up for awhile because Christmas is going to be hard and then we are going to come to the anniversary of his death. I still don't think it is fair that he is gone and I truly wonder if we did everything we could.

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... friends

2008-11-30T16:04:00.000-08:00

Today is the last day of the challenge and I am grateful for midnight scrapper for starting it for us.
Today I am thankful for friends. Whether you are my IRL (in real life friends) who I have spent a ton of time with or my internet friends who I just know by a nickname and a series of posts. You all have touched my life and made quite an impact (personally and on my wallet!!!)
I think we truly realize the importance of friends as we become older... and as my family shrinks I am grateful to have these friends to stand by me. I have friends that drove quite a ways (across town) to attend my Dad's funeral and are willing to watch my children whenever I need help. I have friends that have been a shoulder to cry on and are there to laugh with. I have friends that have known me for years and friends that I have just met. I am grateful for each and every one of you.

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... music

2008-11-29T16:00:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for music. I have always been a music lover... I have played a couple different instruments and have sang in various choirs... I love various types of music.. I think music can have a profound effect on mood... whether it is upbeat and makes you happy or it is sad and makes you cry.
I cannot imagine life without music. And I think whoever invented the car radio and ipod are genuises.

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... books

2008-11-28T20:58:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for books. I am a fast reader. And I am a big reader. This means I can devourer books. I have actually had a few times where I have read a book in a night, and other times in 24 hours. Nick jokes with me about how I can read a book in two hours (an exaggeration unless it is a kids book). I don't know how come I can read so fast probably just a lot of reading when I was younger. And yet I have a ton of books at home to read, and even more on my list at the library. Ever since Carter was born I haven't had as much time, and now that I am working even less. But I still enjoy books and am grateful that we have so many to choose from. And as an adult I can choose to read whatever I want (with some nudges from the book club I am in). I do have to say, my favorite books are chick lit... they are usually light enough to take me away without depressing me... though I have read some real tough stuff. And now if I start a book and don't like it I don't waste my time and read it. Life is too short.
So to anyone that has written a book, thanks! Maybe I will return the favor some day and write my own book.

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... my father

2008-11-27T19:59:00.000-08:00

(taken on Thanksgiving 2006)
Today I am thankful for the one person I missed the most today. Today I am thankful and missing my Dad.
With this challenge I find it really appropriate to write this post on Thanksgiving. See, Thanksgiving was probably one of or the favorite holiday of my father. I don't know if it was because he loved to grill the perfect turkey or if he loved always having it at their house or if it was because with Jewish and Christian relatives, this was the one holiday we all "agreed" on... probably a mix of all three. And that made this holiday really hard, especially for Mom and me... of course adding on the death of my Mom's Mom this year didn't make things any easier.
My father was the best person I have ever known. He would do anything for anyone and along with that he would talk to anyone. The conversations my Dad had were legendary. When he died I posted the eulogy on here so I wont re-tell everything but I do want to say a couple things.
Last year at this exact moment my Dad got to fulfill a dream, he got to take his whole family to Mexico. That says a lot about him, he was all about his family, especially his grandchildren. He always made me feel special.. whether it was him always calling me his favorite younger daughter or him always being there for me when I needed him.
But he isn't here now when I need him and for that I feel it is so unfair. I talked to someone yesterday who had also lost her first parent this year and we decided there is no way to sugar coat today when you are missing them so much.
Even so, I do want to thank God for the 28 years I had with my father. In many ways I am a lot like him, and I feel that is a good thing. Dad, I know you know how much we love you but I want to say it again, I love you so much.

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... my son, Carter

2008-11-26T20:01:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for my baby, my buddy, Carter.
Many of you know he was a surprise, the best surprise I have ever received. Looking back at the first year of his life I realize that he was put on this earth for a purpose. It was like God knew all the bad stuff that was going to happen to us so he first wanted to bring us something good, something that would not let us fall into a deep, dark dungeon of depression. You really do not have as much time to mope when you have a baby to take care of (not taking anything away from the other kids, they are just a lot more independent). A year ago this past Monday, Carter was my first child I ever had to bring to surgery, it was scary but also a blessing because it "fixed" him. Carter is the hardest of all my children to leave every day to go to work because every day he is doing something new. And he is learning everything faster then Jeffrey and Samantha. And speaking of Jeffrey and Samantha, he loves his older brother and sister so much. Of course tops on his list is his Mommy and Daddy, his face just lights up when he sees us, and he gets jealous when any of the other kids or Lucy wont let him get to us when we come home. One of the first sounds Carter could make was the mama sound.. and even though he is not saying it towards me yet... I love to hear it. Carter can be quite the handful at times, he loves to try to get into cupboards and pull things out to throw or chew on and his new favorite game is throwing things down the stairs.
I love my angel, Carter.

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... my son, Jeffrey

2008-11-25T20:04:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for my first born, Jeffrey.
I always say there is nothing like you first time having a baby. Everything is new and unknown. Jeffrey is my child that we get to try everything out on. This year Jeffrey is in first grade and wow has he already learned a lot. Before school started he could only read our names and No and now he is reading short books to us. His does well in math but really feels challenged in english, especially writing. Jeffrey use to be my laid back child but that has changed a little bit since he has gotten older and hangs out with his Dad. He is still the kind of kid that has just a couple close friends and can have a bad day when they upset him. He also still wants to be a landscaper some day, even if Dad tells him he should do anything but. Jeffrey loves being the older brother to Samantha and Carter, whether it be teaching Sami how to write words or giving Carter hugs and kisses. And Jeffrey usually tries to be the helper around the house, though he would rather vacumn over picking up his toys any day. I was thinking today about how I feel I never see him (even with working) because he is in school all day.
I love you Jeffrey.

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... my daughter, Samantha

2008-11-24T19:49:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for my girly girl Samantha.
I always knew I wanted at least one of each... so after I had Jeffrey and got pregnant again I knew I wanted a girl, though I was surprised to get my wish. In so many ways she is such a girl, she is highly sensitive and many times you have to be careful about setting her off, but in other ways she is just like the guys, especially when it comes to playing in dirt and sand. Lately she has really enjoyed dresses and she even wore a no sleeve shorter dress to church yesterday (when they high was in the forties). Nothing can take her away from her coloring, she hates to stop to even eat and watch out if you come to our house, you may leave with many pictures (she even gave one to the pizza delivery woman once!). In a way I want Samantha to be just like me, but in other ways I want her to be better then me. I do not know if it is because she is a girl or because she has a brother just 17 months older then her, but she is soooo smart. The stuff she is doing and trying to learn amazes me, I wonder if Kindergarten is going to be boring for her (of course there is all the projects that she will love). And she is awesome at helping Carter, she feeds him, gets him things and makes sure he is doing alright. She has a dimple on each cheek and is wrapped around her father's finger.
I am so thankful for Samantha, I love her so much.

C-Ya!

This Week I am thankful for....

2008-11-24T19:48:00.000-08:00

If anyone has been a regular reader of my "today I am thankful for" blogs, you may be wondering why I haven't mentioned my children. I mean of course I am thankful for them. Well I thought it was appropriate to wait till the actual week of Thanksgiving to say why I am thankful for my kids. And just to change things up, since my sons always are bookends with being the first and last kid born, I decided to go in reverse alphabetical order starting with Samantha (can you tell I put a lot of thought in this?)
And then on Thanksgiving I am going to write a special post about someone special to me.

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... medication

2008-11-23T14:51:00.000-08:00

Carter has a horrible case of teething mixed in with a small cold. He is miserable!!! I am thankful for that we have medicines though, because it seems to help. I just feel so bad for him... he walks around and is not happy doing anything for too long. I just hope he feels better soon.

C-Ya!

$25.00!

2008-11-22T17:14:00.000-08:00

That is how much I paid for a full tank of gas today. As sort of my addendum to my "thankful for low gas prices" post. I bought gas for $1.72 a gallon today and filled it up for $25!! Way better then the $50 I spent earlier this year!
I just hope our government can do whatever it takes for gas not to spike again. That would really help the economy!

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... the weekend

2008-11-22T17:09:00.000-08:00

Just like my day off post... I am thankful for the weekends moreso because of working. But even when Nick works I cannot wait for the possiblity that he will be home with us. Again my weekends are for catching up, today I did some cleaning and laundry. I also got to kind of sleep in till 8-something. And I spent some of the day delivering fundraisers the kids did - wreaths and butter braids. Now I am enjoying some hang out time with the family. And tomorrow is church and sport watching.
I think no matter what I will always be thankful for the weekend.

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... good food

2008-11-21T19:00:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for good food. That may be a 'doh' moment. But I really figured out today how much I love good food. We were filling out a secret santa form at work (yay, a bonus of working again), and I realized I could not live without good food. If I had the money I would never bring a lunch to work, I would go out. Now I just try to bring some frozen dinner or leftovers and maybe go out one day a week. Thankfully Nick and I are both decent cooks so we can make good dinners. But I do really enjoy eating out. One year that Nick and I were dating he aproximated how much we spent on going out to eat and it was huge, of course when you both live with your parents you try to go out as much as possible and restaurants are great places for a date. Now we rarely go out to dinner... and especially with the kids.. they can really bring the bill up.
So I am thankful for good food. Yummmm!

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... my crazy community

2008-11-20T22:00:00.000-08:00

We have lived in Mound for over 7 years now. It took a little while to meet people outside of close neighbors. Now with our involvement out here with church, Knights, school, MOMS club etc. I feel like we know a ton of people. I do truly feel like we are part of the community.
And at times our community can be crazy. I found this out today. For years we have had an outdoor tree lighting ceremony. And tonight was the first night any of us have gone. This year they invited OLL's K-2 graders to sing as the first act. So Jeffrey and I went and wouldn't you know it was like the coldest night we have had so far this weekend. Needless to say we came, he sang and we left. We actually didn't get to see the tree lighting or Santa, we didn't stop for hot cocoa or go on a horse drawn cart ride. But Jeffrey did sing and we had a blast.

I always think it is only us crazy Minnesotans that have many things outside in these cold winters. But I am thankful for this craziness (at least for others).

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... a day off

2008-11-19T20:00:00.000-08:00

With this new job I have one day off a week. A part of me thinks if I ever went back to work "full time" I would still need a week day off. Today was spent being Mom again. I took and picked up Samantha from preschool, I picked up Jeffrey from the bus, I went to a MOMS club meeting, I spent time with Carter and got to put him down for a nap. I also spent time doing laundry and I did make dinner.
And I did not go to work!
So I am thankful for the day off and a chance to catch up with my kids and my chores.

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... my cell phone

2008-11-18T20:00:00.000-08:00

You would think when I put in my blog I am thankful for material things that I am materialistic... but you may not realize how some of these things can be life savers or at least sanity savers.
I have had my cell phone for 11 years. And it became the only way to get a hold of me around 3-4 years ago when we gave up our land line (Nick also has a cell). For some the thought of not having that land line seems hard, and it was at first, but now it is great because if you want to get a hold of me, call me... if you want to talk to Nick, call him. Now of course I do have the option of not answering!!
Having a cell phone has really become more important for me since having children. I know that the school can call me if anything happens with one of the kids, no matter where I am. And for those times I had to call 911 when Nick was not home, being able to call him on his cell at a job site made me feel at least a little better.
Now, I am working again and I do not have an extension yet. No worries, you can just call me on my cell or text me as is the case with Nick some of the time. And I can even check my email and websites on my phone now on my breaks.
So while it is fun to have a cell, it also brings piece of mind.

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... the internet!

2008-11-17T20:00:00.000-08:00

So we were temporarily disconnected from the internet (really it is my fault) and I found out how thankful I am for the internet. Yea I know I normally spend a lot of time on the internet (though haven't been able to since working), but when you cannot use it for certain needs it can drive you crazy. I could not look online to help a friend's child with her homework or check our bank account or even see the news.
Thankfully it was only temporary.

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... a warm blanket

2008-11-16T18:49:00.000-08:00

After a beautiful early November, it has gotten cold. And today I am thankful for a warm blanket. Because today I wrapped myself in one and was in it for a long time. I just couldn't warm up but with that blanket I felt better.

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... BINGO!

2008-11-15T21:15:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for Bingo, especially when I win!!
Nick is the Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus at our church. They do various bingos throughout the year. Sometimes I do well, most of the time I don't, but I have fun trying. Even though there are other bingos in the area, this is the only one I have gone to. Tonight was turkey bingo. I think the last time I won was last year's turkey bingo. And I won again tonight. Plus I won a door prize. So I am thankful for bingo!!

(may be another stretch but hey, it made my night)

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... entertainment

2008-11-14T21:04:00.000-08:00

Ok... I admit.. I am grasping for straws on this one. It is late at night and I am really trying to get this done every day. And I really am thankful for entertainment, right now I am being entertained playing on the computer and watching TV.
And as an added bonus, everyone else is asleep, so the only noise I hear is the TV and the typing of the keys.

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... employment!

2008-11-13T17:00:00.000-08:00

Yep you read that right. Today I am thankful for employment. Yesterday I officially joined the workforce again. Honestly it is hard to leave my children, especially Carter because I never got to be a SAHM with the other kids at that age, but this was too perfect to not take. I am working 32 hours a week and am contracted for 2-3 months. This means I get one day off to be Mom and also participate in MOMS club stuff as well as get stuff done around the house (of course Nick is already putting me to shame on that end). And even though the commute is long (though shorter then when I worked downtown), I get to carpool with my friend who got me the job. And this is good time because Nick is slower now and can get his stuff done on my one day off as well as at night or on the weekends. Now if I could just get use to the earlier mornings!!!

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... my husband!

2008-11-12T19:54:00.000-08:00

(taken yesterday for his official Grand Knight photo)

I think it is appropriate that I choose today to be thankful for my husband because today is his birthday. Nick came into this world 33 years ago, and even though he says he is a dirt bag and maybe shouldn't been born (he actually was a miracle baby), I am grateful that he is here. Like most people, our marriage is filled with highs and lows but in the end we know we will be there for each other, through thick and thin. We have been through a lot, the worst being saying Goodbye to both of our fathers and his and Jeffrey's burns as well as Carter's surgery, but I am so grateful we have had each other. And of course he is the father to our three wonderful children (who all look like him!). So Happy Birthday and Thank You Nick for being my Love.

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... a perfect check up!

2008-11-11T16:39:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for a perfect checkup for my kids!!! This afternoon we took the children to their well visits. All the kids had no problems. In fact the Doctor kept asking if we had anything else to talk about. Here were their stats:
Weight Height
Carter 22.6lbs (50%) 30in (60%)
Samantha 35lbs (20%) 41in (25%)
Jeffrey 45.5 lbs 45in

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... my mother

2008-11-10T15:59:00.000-08:00

(Mom & Carter on Halloween)

Today I am thankful for my Mother. I have always had a good relationship with my Mother, though it did suffer since I became an adult and she had to focus a lot of energy on people in her family that were sick. Now with the death of her mother she has all this energy and is finding a different focus. Now she can really focus on her grandchildren (and kids too). The past couple months she has spent a ton of time over here, having sleepovers, trying to help clean or just hanging out. And I am enjoying having my Mom back. The other day she even did something that was very unexpected but reminds me how wonderful she is. I know I am lucky to have my Mother in my life... Nick's Mother is completely different then mine and is not in his life because of her actions... so he even calls my Mom "Mom". And of course you cannot count on that she gave me life.

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... The Mall of America

2008-11-09T17:51:00.000-08:00

Yes, today I am thankful for Mall of America . Funny I should choose the biggest mall in the United States and a shrine to capitalism but since I was there today I felt it appropriate. I cannot forget 16 years ago when it opened to much fan fare. We didn't go that weekend.. we actually waited about a month later when my Mom, Dad, Brother and I got our first glimpse at this huge mall. Up until I got married 8+ years ago I lived only 15 minutes away. At that time the mall was great for get to gethers with friends and dates and I even worked there for a summer. After I got married the trips there haven't happened as much. Doesn't mean I dislike the place.. it is just 45 minute to get there now. And when I go it may be for a dinner with friends or to take the kids on rides. I have also been to parties there and know of people that have gotten married there.
I am just amazed that someplace really can have something for everyone. And I actually have online friends that plan trips there or have it on their list of places they want to go someday. I guess I am lucky and grateful it is so close.
Jeffrey and I were there today for a friend's birthday party and my brother just got a job there.
It really is "The Place for Fun in Your Life!"

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... sleep

2008-11-08T19:06:00.000-08:00

Funny, it is the absence of sleep that is making me thankful for sleep. I am almost always tired... not just because of the three kids (though having a baby doesn't help) but for other undetermined reasons. So I will say I am thankful when I can sleep in.
Of course that actually didn't happen today... and I went to bed way too late last night because Nick and I stumbled on a movie and watched it.
But I am thankful for sleep when I can get some.

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... my house!

2008-11-07T09:51:00.001-08:00

Sometimes these gratitude posts are easy to figure out and some take some thinking... this one actually came to me as I was (and still am) cleaning up our house for Samantha and Carter's birthday party.

(this was actually taken in July 2006 - if I would have taken this today you would see snow - yes, snow - on the ground)

Today I am thankful for my house. Even though today we have the "fun" task of cleaning it, I am grateful I have a house to clean. I am grateful we have a comfortable place to sleep and even space to keep our junk. I am grateful for the neighbors we have near our house. And I am grateful that it is OURS (well and the banks).

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... lower gas prices

2008-11-06T09:14:00.000-08:00

Funny, I was thinking about doing this one and then I saw Shirley's post one what she was grateful for yesterday. Today I am thankful for lower gas prices. I filled up the other day for either $2.00 or $2.10 and I actually saw it for $1.97 yesterday. Who knows if this will last, but for now it is nice to get away from "high gas prices". And you know, I don't even drive a lot, but it is nice to feel a little more freedom.

C-Ya!

2008-11-05T11:27:00.001-08:00

Mobile Blogging
This is a test of the mobile blogging system... This is only a test...
C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... change

2008-11-05T10:19:00.001-08:00

Today I am thankful for change and that it is coming. I know that whoever we would have elected as our President we would have a change, but just knowing that we are closer to that change makes it an exciting new world. Right now we have a President with a very low approval rating and many of us are excited for him to be shown the door.
Congratulations President-elect Barack Obama and his Vice President-elect Joe Biden, I look forward to the next four years!

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... democracy

2008-11-04T10:26:00.000-08:00

I think it is only fitting that today I am thankful for democracy and the privelages of living in the United States of America. I love that we have this ability to vote and have our voice heard (or kind of heard when it comes to the President and electoral college). And I am so glad that so many people will be exercising that right. Also, I am proud of my state of Minnesota which usually has the highest rate of voter turnout... early estimates put this year's number at 80%. Now I haven't voted yet... we are waiting till Jeffrey gets home from school and Nick gets done with work and we will all go vote. I remember going to vote with my parents and am proud to take my own kids - especially during this monumental election.
So I am probably that 1000th person to tell you this... but if you are allowed to vote.. please go vote today. And be thankful that you can.

C-Ya!!!

Today I am thankful for.... water.

2008-11-03T08:05:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for water.

Water is central to everything we do in our lives - our food and drink, our bathing, our recreation.... I think our bodies are like 75% water.
And so I am thankful for it.
Particullarly the water we drink and the water we have fun in. I usually drink water at home and don't even mind the Mound water that comes out of the tap. I also love living a block away from the biggest body of water here in Minnesota - Lake Minnetonka - and sometimes people even take us out on their boats on the lake.

C-Ya!

Today I am thankful for.... beautiful weather

2008-11-02T12:43:00.001-08:00

Today I am thankful for beautiful weather. It is the first week of November and today and tomorrow should hit around 70 degrees!!! I need to remember days like today when next weekend could bring snow.

C-Ya!!!

A thankful November..

2008-11-02T12:27:00.001-08:00

My friend at this blog midnitescrapper has set up a challenge to blog every day this month what you are grateful for in honor of Thanksgiving... and you know I am always up for a challenge. So hold me to it.....

C-Ya!!!

Happy November!

2008-11-01T20:16:00.000-07:00

... well I guess... it is November... all the kids are calming down from the sugar high (except for when Grandma says they can have another piece). Tonight we fall back... I just hope Carter sleeps in a little bit. And tomorrow is All Souls Day at church... another reason to think about Dad and how much I miss him.
And here I sit... at 10 o'clock at night working on homework with Jeffrey because he is having a hard time with it. He is good with math but not so good with spelling/writing/reading. *sigh*
Well off to clean up the final last things from dinner and watch SNL.
At least the weather is suppose to be nice this week!

C-Ya!

Happy 1st Birthday Carter!!!

2008-10-31T20:08:00.000-07:00

Happy, happy first birthday Carter!! I cannot believe that last year at this time I was holding you for the first time. I have to admit I was slightly bummed to miss the trick or treating and Halloween festivities... but if I had to miss it for anything, you were the best reason.
I so would love to write a long post about all you have been doing lately but it is Halloween and I just took your siblings out. You are walking and practically running and are cutting teeth 3 & 4 right now. Also, you LOVE to chatter, we definetly cannot forget that you are in the room.
Just like Jeffrey and Samantha, your picture and info was on the KARE 11's first birthday segment in their midmorning show... if anyone wants to check it out.. here is the link.. Showcase Minnesota

I Love You Baby Boy!!!

C-Ya!!

Go vote!

2008-10-30T14:11:00.000-07:00

5 more days till the big election! Thank goodness... an unnamed person is driving me nuts about their candidate and I am worn out.

Just don't forget to go vote!!!

C-Ya!

Happy 5th Birthday Samantha!

2008-10-28T19:11:00.000-07:00

Happy 5th Birthday to my girly girl. I just cannot believe Samantha is half a decade old.

What a year it has been for Samantha. She is really enjoying her 2nd year of preschool and is looking forward to kindergarten. She can write Sami P. and is called Sami at school. Her favorite things to do are color/draw/write and play outside. And she can spend hours doing them. She loves both of her brothers and loves spending time with them. Her favorite colors may be pink, purple and blue but that could be changing. She is enjoying her first year of dance.
I love you baby girl.

C-Ya!

Big Week

2008-10-25T12:09:00.000-07:00

Next week is quite the big week here... Tuesday is Samantha's 5th birthday, Friday is Carter's 1st birthday and Halloween. Add in a lot going on at school with birthday and Halloween parties plus we have to turn in Jeffrey's Christmas wreath order for cub scouts and Samantha's butter braids order for preschool (anyone want to buy any?) and it will be busy. Ohhh and for anyone that lives in the Twin Cities... Carter will be on KARE 11 during the 10am show for his first birthday on Friday!
And tomorrow is huge at church... it is the anniversary of the dedication of the church and also this is the 100th anniversary of the church this year (well actually next June) and Nick installed a huge 57,000 rock and so they are dedicating that and having 4th degree honor guard and special music and a breakfast brunch. So that will be exciting.
And I have been neglecting this blog something fierce... funny I am on the internet every day but never know what to write. Yea a ton has been going on with the family... especially the kids.. I just need to write about it. I have also been neglecting my scrapbooking and it is nice to look back on the blog and find out what I have done. I really need a long weekend to work on that.
Ohh.. and Go MINNESOTA GOPHERS... 7-1 Yeah!!!

C-Ya!

In Memory of Danny...

2008-10-20T10:50:00.000-07:00

IN MEMORY OF DANNY TRITTEN
August 29, 2003 – October 16, 2008
Daniel "Danny" "Dude" John Tritten, age 5, of Roscoe, IL, passed away on Thursday, October 16th, 2008, at Rockford Memorial Hospital in Rockford, IL.Danny was born in Riverside, CA, on August 29, 2003. Danny was the most amazing young man. He had a generous heart that was obvious to all who knew him. He made friends everywhere we went and was loved by everyone who met him.
He is survived by his parents, Dan and Donnann Tritten; and sister (sissy), Madison Tritten of Roscoe, IL; many other family and friends.
Balloon released at the time of his funeral mass from a friend in Mound, MN in honor of his love for the movie Cars. http://www.scrapshare.com/

I attached the following to a balloon we just released in honor and memory of Danny. I met Danny's mom, Donnann, on scrapshare.com and then at a couple scrapbooking retreats in Wisconsin. All of a suddenly last week Danny got really sick and they found a brain tumor, they tried to take it out (I don't know if they were successful) but he didn't make it.
No words can express how sorry anyone is at the loss of Danny. No one should have to bury their five year old, and knowing that my daughter turns 5 next week makes it even harder. They are pretty much the same age.
So today we are wearing red and releasing red balloons...
Pictures taken inside of the house of Samantha, Carter and myself (Nick and Jeffrey are out of town) right before we released the balloons:

These were taken outside:

I had told Samantha to let go when she was ready and then all a sudden the wind took it out of her hand. Of course she got really upset, but I tried to tell her that Danny took it.

For more info, check out menjiness.blogspot.com which has all of Desiree's posts about it, or the funeral home website. As of right now, here are some other blogs with their red balloon posts:
yankeeinontario.blogspot.com/ , changgang1.blogspot.com/ , themartinchronicle.blogspot.com/ , blog.havadrpepper.com/ , openabigolcanofcrazy.blogspot.com/ , mom2jwo.blogspot.com/ , bandhasbecomemylife.blogspot.com/

Dear God, hold Danny close, Amen.

C-Ya!

Another loss

2008-09-23T11:36:00.000-07:00

Well we suffered another loss, a week ago my Grandma (Mom's Mom) died. She ended up dying from dementia but also had lung cancer and emphysema. My poor mother has lost so many people, but seems to be doing ok. For the first time since I was born she now doesn't have a child or adult to take care of (or at least be a strong advocate for). I did tell I hope the only diaper she changes and baths she gives for a long time is to Carter.
My Grandma Joyce was 76 years old and now joins her parents, brother, special friend and son-in-law (my Dad) in heaven. I know she had some welcoming arms up there.

C-Ya!

Spouse

2008-08-09T20:15:00.000-07:00

I got this from Cowtown Stacy and knew I had to copy... even if she didn't tag me!!!

(he may shoot me if he knew I put a "naked Nick" picture online - btw.. he is not naked, just has his shirt off!)
What is his name? Nick
How long have you been married? Just celebrated 8 years
How long did you date? It was 2 months before we got engaged... we got married three years and 2 days after our first date.
How old is he? 32
Who eats more? Him... though I do eat faster!
Who said I love you first? He did.
Who is taller? He is. That was one of my requirements.. of course when you are 5'2" most guys are. He is 6'1" or 6'.. he can never decide.
Who sings better? ME! And he knows it.
Who's temper is worse? Probably him... because he is more passionate about things.
Who does the laundry? Me, if I had to wait for him to have time (especially in the summer) it would never get done.
Who pays the bills? He makes it, I spend it.
Who cooks dinner? I do about 75% of the time.. of course more in the summer.
Who mows the lawn? Neither one of us... he used to own a lawn care company.. and is such a perfectionist that I could never do it, but again, he doesn't have time. So his former business partner mows it!
Who wears the pants in the family? If I had to name someone I would say more him, but we are pretty equal.
OK, so I need to tag someone ... Diane (even if you don't get married for a couple weeks) and Roxanne (because you need a blog... even if Fredo needs to write it)

C-Ya!

Happy 8th Anniversary!

2008-07-29T20:56:00.000-07:00

On this day 8 years ago I told Nick that I would be his wife forever.. 8 years, through all the highs and lows we are celebrating our anniversary. Tonight we left the kids with our good friends and we went out, just the two of us, on a real date for the first time since Carter was born.
Rarely do we have pics just the two of us... but here is us in May at the Knights convention (which we had to take Carter to)..

Happy Anniversary Dear.

C-Ya!

I have come to realize...

2008-07-24T08:02:00.000-07:00

With thanks (& apologies?) to Cowtown Stacy who writes way better on her Blog. I am copying her in this. Of course she did copy this from CloverGirl who also writes a great blog.

1. I've come to realize that my boobs are never going to recover from having kids unless I get some "help" - and I do want "help".
2. I've come to realize that my job is supposedly watching my kids every day as a SAHM. Though I don't believe it is a "job" it is a full lifestyle.
3. I've come to realize that when I'm driving I don't always need the radio on. Though if I am completely alone I need to either listen to music or talk on the phone.
4. I've come to realize that I need the friends I have in my life and the friends that are to come.
5. I've come to realize that I have lost my freedom and independence when I had kids.
6. I've come to realize that I hate it when people are self-centered (as I am writing a post all about myself!)
7. I've come to realize that if I'm drunk I will get a headache the next morning.
8. I've come to realize that money wouldn't solve our problems but we would have a lot more fun with them.
9. I've come to realize that certain people enjoy their life, even if it isn't the life for me.
10. I've come to realize that I'll always be short.
12. I've come to realize that my mom needs to have some good things in life happen to her.
13. I've come to realize my cell phone should be fun - that is why I got a new one. And that it actually has helped my relationship with Nick because otherwise we would never talk.
14. I've come to realize that when I woke up this morning I was still tired because Carter woke me up to eat.
15. I've come to realize that last night before I went to sleep I should have gone to bed earlier.
16. I've come to realize that right now I am thinking about how tireing but good my walk was.
17. I've come to realize that my dad was a great man that will always be missed.
18. I've come to realize that when I get on the computer I can forget about the world around me.
19. I've come to realize that today is filled with more possibilites that I never let myself have.
20. I've come to realize that tonight can never come soon enough.
21. I've come to realize that tomorrow I will try to spend at least one minute less on the computer.
22. I've come to realize that I really want to live comfortably... whatever that is.
24. I've come to realize that life isn't easy or fair or always pretty.
25. I've come to realize that this weekend is the first weekend all summer where we have NOTHING booked (except for church - since we go every weekend).
26. I've come to realize that the best music to listen to when I am upset is music that lets me be upset.
27. I've come to realize that friends are very important for our well being.
28. I've come to realize that this year I will be starting the last year of my Twenties and really need to make some goals and plans to get to those goals.

C-Ya!

Facebook!

2008-07-10T09:15:00.000-07:00

NEWS FLASH:
Yesterday, July 9, 2008... Melissa finally joined facebook. She doesn't know why it took her so long. She thought it was more for school kids. But now that she has joined she is enjoying it and all the fun applications and finding all of her friends (wait... does she have friends?). Anyways, if you to are on facebook and want to check her out, this link may work Facebook profile.
Thank you and now back to your regularly scheduled blogging!!!

C-Ya!

Jeffrey at 6

2008-07-07T09:37:00.001-07:00

Jeffrey turned 6 in May. Every year I cannot believe I have a child that is as old as he is. It seems like just yesterday Nick and I were talking about trying for a child, and now it is over six years later.
(J in his "bday shirt")
Jeffrey is so smart in our eyes, nothing goes past him. He remembers so much, though honestly sometimes he embelishes the truth. He sure can tell you stories, though.
He still wants to be a landscaper when he grows up. He loves, loves, loves when he can go to work with Daddy. Nick just told me when they see Jeffrey on the job site they call him the boss. And when Jeffrey is home he has his own "employees" to deal with - and be careful, if they are bad or old they get thrown in the trash.

Jeffrey really enjoyed Kindergarten. He made his first friend all by himself, Jack.. and enjoyed some other friends. He really knew how to butter up his teachers... he had two teachers most of the time and one could never discipline him he was too cute with her. He says his favorite classes were art, music, library, computer, gym and math ... well really almost all the classes.. And he liked to ride the bus to and from school but also liked when Mommy and/or Daddy occasionally picked him up. I am just amazed at how well he can write and start to read things.
(J wrote the alphabet with bath crayons)
He is enjoying his summer so far. Besides going to work with Daddy, him and Samantha already were in one music/religion camp at my friend's church which culmenated with a performance. He also is enjoying a chance to go with to MOMS club stuff. And he is a great helper with Carter (he sometimes takes that role way too seriously)

And that is a little update of my "big, little" boy Jeffrey

C-Ya!

June post

2008-06-30T12:25:00.000-07:00

Ok... so I actually didn't take the time to post in June but I want to make it look like I did so I am back dating this post to June. I actually plan to update on how all the kids are doing maybe this long weekend (of July 4th)!!! :)

C-Ya!

Happy Mother's Day!

2008-05-11T10:32:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to me and all the other Mothers out there - whether you are a mother-to-be (as I was 6 years ago) or a "special Mom", whether your children were born in your tummy or in your heart. I love having this day where we honor Mothers!!!
In celebration of this being my first Mother's Day with 3 children, here are my three little (?) bundles of joy (with Lucy)! Jeffrey, Samantha & Carter do make this day extra special for me.

Nick is going to make dinner for us tonight. Of course I wish my Dad was still around and we could continue our tradition where us and my parents went out for dinner, but with him being gone I just don't feel like going out to eat.
Fathers must get jealous that Mother's Day falls during the school year because every year the kids seem to make me creative Mother's Day gifts but school is already out for his day (mental note to try to think of something creative for them to make this year). And this year was great... here are what the kids made at school. The card with the person giving a hug was made by Jeffrey and Samantha made the hand in the clay.. on the other said it talks about stuff we like to eat together like noodles, wraps and parmesan cheese!!

Don't know yet if Nick will get me a card from him and/or the kids. He doesn't seem to be great at remembering that.
I hope your day is happy!!

C-Ya!

I suck it up..

2008-05-07T14:18:00.000-07:00

I have a minor medical issue... something I get often enough... yet it is one of those things if it doesn't go away in a day or so I need a prescription which usually means running to the Doctor. I have had this since Friday.
And I suck it up...
I suck it up... because I always think I can beat this myself.
I suck it up... because Nick thinks that my family runs to the Dr. too much.
I suck it up... because gas costs around $3.50 and it can be almost a 1/4 a tank to drive to the Dr.
I suck it up... because I have to take one to three kids with to the Dr.
I suck it up... because health insurance is for the healthy and it will still cost me to go to the Dr.
I suck it up... because I feel so icky I just want to stay home and hide.

So I sucked it up long enough today and called the Dr. and after having to wait all day I got one piece of good news about 10 minutes ago... they can just call my prescription in.
Guess no more sucking it up!!!

C-Ya!

6 Months Old!

2008-05-05T12:45:00.000-07:00

Yes, my Carter is half a year old. I cannot believe it. For awhile the time was dragging but now all of a suddenly it is going pretty fast. A lot people think that this is the fun age for babies, before they are walking and tearing through the house, but after they start getting a personality. And Carter sure does have a personality! Thankfully it is usually happy unless he is hungry.

He is turning into the turning fool. He can go from his tummy to his back and his back to his tummy. And he can sure hold his head up well. If I put him in a sitting position he can sit for a very short period of time.

And Samantha and Jeffrey still just adore him. Samantha loves to make him "pile" (smile) and Jeffrey just cannot wait to pick him up and carry him. Of course I am thinking he really loves his mother. My voice is on my Mom's answering machine (yea, she still doesn't have voice mail) and once when she was watching him it came on and he turned to look for me!!

We had his 6 month checkup on Friday. The Dr. says he looks great. His measurements are 16 lbs 2 oz (30%), length is 26 1/4" (50%) and his head is 17 1/2" (75%).

A couple weeks ago we started spoon feeding him rice cereal. I don't always remember to give him some every night but I need to get better at that. I am also planning on giving him some fruits and veggies sometime this week. Last year I bought a Magic Bullet and plan to try to make some of his baby food.

Just over a week ago Nick put up Carter's crib. He has been taking his nap in there as well as starting the night in there. Last week he probably slept the whole night about half the time. So there is hope that he will let me get sleep consistantly soon.

Wow! I thought this was going to be a short post... but I guess Carter has sure done a lot lately. He already is getting to be such a big boy.

C-Ya!

Introducing Lucy!

2008-05-01T10:46:00.000-07:00

Introducing our new puppy, Lucy:

When Maggie died we knew we couldn't be without a little dog for long. So we went back to the place that we got Maggie and saw that they had some shih poos available right away and soon. We found one that was born on February 4, had the same father and was going to be available the beginning of April. So on Thursday, April 10 Nick went and got her.
Now the kids knew we were talking about getting another one, but they did not know when. Partially because I didn't want Jeffrey to miss school since we were getting her while he was gone. Nick brought her home in the morning so Jeff was gone but this was Samantha and Carter's reaction when they saw her

Samantha was pretty excited but nothing could contain the excitement Jeffrey felt when he got home from school and Samantha brought her out

After discussing it all day (and initially thinking we were going to call her Abby) we settled on Lucy. Kind of a break from the "M" names we have named our dogs in the past.
Of course I get to hold her a lot

Potty training has gone ok... she is starting to get the hang of using the bell to go outside, though at times she can be lazy. Samantha and Jeffrey are great with her... they are always taking her out and playing with her. This has been a Godsend because it can get kind of crazy having a new puppy and a baby. Carter, well, he doesn't same much about her. We do have to watch her around him or she mistakes him for a play toy. And Nick is just grateful to have a new "drinking buddy".
Max hasn't had much play time with her, but Scooter has and is quite dissapointed... he thought he would be the only furry friend in the house for awhile.
C-Ya!

Us in April!

2008-04-11T15:18:00.000-07:00

So April is amounting to a BUSY month. I think we have or had something every weekend. Multiple things. So this means that we are not getting anything done around the house - especially all those little projects that Nick has started but hasn't had time to finish and if he doesn't finish them soon they probably wont be touched all summer. Of course I have my fair share of stuff to get done, but the past couple days I have been so tired. Kind of goes in waves for me. One or two days I have energy and get stuff done followed by week(s) of being tired.
I do have some pictures to share. We were at my friends' wedding reception last weekend at the Minnesota Zoo. It was pretty cool to have it with the dolphins, sharks and other sea creatures swimming around. The kids had a ton of fun. Here are some (though don't worry Roxanne... I have more I need to get to you!)
Our family:

Daddy & Carter, Samantha, Jeffrey:

And me with the bride, my good friend Roxanne:

BTW... as I am writing this it is snowing, can spring just finally be here?

C-Ya!

In Memory of Maggie

2008-04-10T14:53:00.000-07:00

I am just going to repost what I emailed everyone when this happened.

It is with sadness that I have to say we have lost our Maggie dog. On the night of Tuesday, March 24 she got off her leash and was hit and killed by a car. I wasn't home but Nick said that whoever hit her didn't stop. Another person saw her lying in the street and went and got the neighbors who in turn got Nick. The lady that found her said she had a faint pulse but by the time Nick got there it was too late. She was almost 2 1/2 years old and was the perfect dog.
We told the kids the next morning.. Jeffrey is taking it especially hard and we let him stay home from school. Samantha decided she wanted to go. She is just asking a lot of questions and is saying that she is sad.
Nick and I are devastated. We have suffered so much loss. I truly don't know if I slept that night, I felt like I was up all night.
The house seems quiet right now, even with the noise the kids make... she definetly had a presence around here larger then life.I think we have all decided that we want to get another little dog soon. We don't know much about what kind yet, but we know we want a girl and to give her a name like Maggie.
Maggie was buried in our back yard next to Mollie, that is what the kids wanted.
:(

C-Ya!

Partial revamp

2008-03-24T15:46:00.000-07:00

As you may be able to see... I did a partial revamp of the blog. I am actually on the hunt for a new template, but till then I changed something in the templates section.
I also deleted a couple more things on my sidebar.
So if you notice something is not working right, please let me know. But also tell me if your are finding it is loading faster. Thanks!!!

And, today it was back to school for the kids! It definetly was quieter around here!!!

C-Ya!

Happy Easter 2008

2008-03-23T19:21:00.000-07:00

Merry Christmas... oh wait... Happy Easter!!!

Looks a little more like Christmas around here this Easter... of course it is really early this year so that is understandable. The snow was actually melting but starting Friday it has been snowing on and off till today. Though it is funny because it is warm enough that some of it melts off the ground as soon as it hits it.
Our Easter started off on Thursday if you count that we were at mass Thursday, Friday and Saturday night as well as Sunday morning. But we really got into the spirit on Saturday.
We started off at church for the annual Knights Easter Egg Hunt. Due to the snow it was held indoors and that was just fine with me. The kids' age group was in the gym and the eggs were just spread all over the floor. Both Jeffrey and Samantha had an easy time this year getting eggs and ended up with 8 and 6 eggs. Jeffrey had a prize egg and got to pick out something, he choose silly straws. Samantha had a grand prize egg and picked out a giant elephant!!

After that we went into the main part of the church to check out Nick's progress on the baptismal fountain he was building for the Easter season. This is the second year he has made one and he definetly had an easier time this year. I think it turned out great.

Later that night we were back up at church for the Easter Vigil Mass. Our friends so graciously watched the kids during mass so I could sing in the choir and Nick could usher. I will say we sounded awesome as a choir - especially the ending Hallelujiah Chorus.
Today started out back at church for mass.. then back home to get ready for having Mom, Aaron and Katie over. Again it is bittersweet to be celebrating without Dad. The past couple years we have combined Easter and Passover and this year I just didn't feel like doing anything for Passover (of course it isn't for awhile so there wasn't much out anyways).
Aaron and Katie brought over their dog Aspen, and he got to spend some time with Max. Maggie also got a chance to say Hi.

Because we are so busy in the morning the Easter Bunny usually doesn't stop by till mid day or so. This year EB left the kids' gifts outside the door and played ding dong ditch... unfortunately the kids missed EB. But they did like their gifts - including Carter.

And then we had our Easter dinner - yum. Afterwards Uncle Aaron got to hang out with his youngest buddy Carter.

From my family to yours HAPPY EASTER

(and yes... Jeff and Sami both just got haircuts!)

C-Ya!

Happy Anniversary Mom & Dad!

2008-03-19T16:01:00.000-07:00

Today my parents would have celebrated their 29th Anniversary. I think it is bittersweet that while we were on our trip to Cancun someone decided to celebrate it then (it could have been the room service that came with the celebration). Little did we know that Dad wouldn't make it to that day.
I haven't talked to Mom today, she knew it was going to be a hard day. Because she had plans tonight we took her out Monday to dinner and I brought her roses. I know she really appreciated us not forgetting.
And adding to all this, we found out last week my Grandma (Mom's Mom) is pretty sick.. though we wont know how bad till tomorrow.
So Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad I know you are watching down on us.

Dad & Mom in Cancun

Dad & Mom with Aaron, Gage, Johnny, Carter, Carrie, Nick, Jeffrey, Me & Samantha (Kids, Grandkids and sons-in-law) in Cancun.

C-Ya!

One year ago

2008-03-17T12:10:00.001-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!!

My SS friend Nancy has a post called "One Year Ago" where she talks about how one year ago on Friday, March 14 she found out about her daughter's diagnosis of Type 1 Diabeties. It got me thinking... see one year ago today we got some happy news.
Let me back up to the day before (Friday, March 16, 2007), I was starting to have some indications that things may not be what they seem. I wasn't feeling right and just had a sneaky suspicion.
So on Saturday, March 17, 2007 after spending time at the St. Pat's party at the American Legion I just knew I had to find out.
Yep... it was one year ago that we found out we were going to have a third child!!!
Gosh it has seemed like a lot has gone on this past year. We have had the birth of Carter, the death of my father, a trip to Mexico, Jeffrey starting kindergarten, Samantha starting preschool... I guess a lot has gone on.
So I raise a glass to my Halloween baby Carter

C-Ya!

Hey there!

2008-03-12T13:56:00.000-07:00

Hey blog... how are you?

I am doing ok...

It is almost Spring and we are starting to have 40 degree highs!!!

Spring Break is next week.

Carter turned 4 months and is 13 pounds 14 ounces and 24+ inches long (40% for both)... kind of wonder how he stacks up with Jeffrey and Samantha.. I will have to check that out. He is quite the smiler and can roll over from his tummy. Poor thing is congested again.

That is about it.

C-Ya!

Out of sorrow, joy!

2008-02-11T17:16:00.000-08:00

Life has been tough without Dad.. days just don't seem as happy. Yes, my three kids do help me to remember why we live, especially Carter (who is jibber jabbering in the next room right now!).
And out of our sorrow, we have found some good. My brother has had an undefined relationship with Katie for the past few years. Well he just defined it last night and they got engaged! Now I don't think he got down on one knee... he just doesn't seem like the type.. but he did get her a ring! And he has already called looking for the guest list from my wedding! As far as I know they are looking at April 2009!
Now we know that our Dad's death has caused him to really look at his life. We just wish he was here to share in this. Dad loved being a part of mine and my sister's wedding... he really enjoyed the role of father-of-the-bride. We will just have to honor him, and Katie's departed Dad, at the wedding.
Now I don't know if I have a pic of the two of them together but here is individual pics taken when they came and visited the hospital after Carter was born:

Congrats to them!!

C-Ya!

In Memory Of... My Dad

2008-01-25T15:04:00.000-08:00

On January 13, 2008 the world lost a great man, and I lost my father.
I still do not think it is fair he had to leave this world, after all he was one of the good guys. And I really do not think it was fair that my kids had to lose a grandfather just a year and a half after the lost their other one.
God I miss him, every day I wish I could call him up and talk. I do not think I have ever felt so devastated... like my internal light has gone out. This has been so hard for my mother, brother, sister as well as many other people. And Nick has loved my father as long as he as loved me.
I am sure I will have a ton more to say about him, but today I wanted to post a pic of him and his littlest angel, Carter, during our trip to Cancun as well as post a couple things said at his funeral.

This was a poem I found online and modified from a single grandchild to many grandchildren. I read this for the funeral:
My Grandpa's SmileYour first smile said to us,All there was to know.
We were in our Grandpa's heart,And he was never letting go.

Your smile was full of pride,As you held our little hand.
You were there to welcome us,Your newest, biggest fan.

Your smile is our magic wand,Making laughs and fun appear.
There is no ordinary day,When our Grandpa's near.

Your smile is our secret pal,Spreading mischief ear to ear.
Full of silly pranks and jokes,For all of us to hear.

Your smile is our hero,Reflecting tales of days gone by.
Like walking miles to school,And shoveling snow a story high.

All our life we’ll keep with us,Memories of us all.
And know how lucky we have been,To have a Grandpa smile like you.

And this was the eulogy I wrote with help of my family. My sister, Carrie, read it but for blogging purposes I am going to change it so it sounds like any of the kids could have read it:
Dad was born in Lawton, Oklahoma on February xx, 1942 to Abe and Sophia S. Soon after that they moved to St. Paul, first on Pleasant Ave and then to a house on Eleanor Avenue where he lived till he was an adult. When Dad was four, his days of being an only child ended and his brother Marshall was born. According to Uncle Marshall, Dad or Kenny, as he called him, was his mentor who taught him astronomy, photography, stamps, coin collecting, electronics, computers and how to drive both his parents and teachers crazy, especially his Hebrew School teachers.
Dad married Ann in August of 1968 and Carrie was born three years later. After a short but sweet marriage, Dad and Ann divorced. It was at that time that Dad bought the house on Woodlawn Avenue that he lived in until his death.
Dad then married Terry in March of 1979 and Melissa was born later that year. Less then two years later, Aaron was born and the family was complete. What Terry remembers most about that time is how lovable, compassionate and understanding Dad was. Dad always said his biggest regret at the time was how much he worked when he would rather be with all of us. Melissa says one of his fondest memories of the time was when he did come home from work and she would run into his arms and tell him how much she missed him.I
n 1988 Dad was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma but he wouldn’t let the five years to live guideline hold him back. This is when he and Terry started to take as many trips as possible. He also went back to the University of Minnesota to complete his degree in Microbiology. He loved watching baseball and we will never forget his brief stint as Aaron’s little league coach. One of Dad’s proudest moments was getting to walk his two daughters down the aisle, Melissa to Nick in 2000 and Carrie to Johnny in 2002.
Dad decided his most important accomplishment was becoming a Grandfather. Gage, Jeffrey, Samantha and Carter were his guardian angels in this last year. Dad relished watching his Grandkids and would freely admit that he would change their diapers, if no one else was available.
Many of you know that Dad was open to everyone and every subject. Whether you were Jewish or Catholic, Democrat or Republican, he would have a friendly theoretical, political or environmental debate with you. And he was always willing to help whether it was a run to the airport, rewiring a house or anything else a family member or friend needed. He was a jack of all trades. He knew a little bit of everything and was always willing to share his knowledge and wisdom.
Dad got to fulfill his dying wish last November when took the family to a beautiful resort in Cancun, Mexico. We enjoyed a week of sun, sand and mediocre food. No one in the family can forget the wonderful memories that trip made. We even got to celebrate Dad and Terry’s 29th anniversary a couple months early.
We know Dad wished to live forever and he fought his disease the hardest he could. He didn’t complain about the three to four hour dialysis sessions three days a week, or that he just couldn’t do everything he used to. And he always made sure his family knew that he loved them.And Dad we love you too. And we will miss you. And we hope that you and Grandma have a beautiful reunion in heaven.

C-Ya!

3 smiley faces!

2008-01-11T08:15:00.000-08:00

Sometimes when the world is getting you down and life is really sucking, you need to look at 3 smiley faces to think of happiness. Here are my 3 smiley faces who I am so blessed to have:

Jeffrey, Carter & Samantha

C-Ya!

Paid surveys, etc.

2008-01-06T10:29:00.000-08:00

So the other day I signed up for two sites that you can get paid for doing surveys, reading emails and spending money through them. They are both alike and seem on the up and up. So if you want to slowly make a couple bucks, check these two out:

Also, if you ever see a banner for Pinecone Research, click on it... you make good money (comparatively) for doing surveys and sometimes get to try things and do a survey on it.
And check out bzzagent.com. You get to try things out and all you have to do is tell others about it (word of mouth) and then tell them about your experience telling others.
Enjoy!

C-Ya!!

Happy 2008!

2008-01-05T11:28:00.000-08:00

Hey all and Happy New Year!!!

It is now 2008, yea! Time for new beginnings. I tell you I have some things I would love to start fresh on!!
I was thinking to myself what goals I have for this year. Goals sound so much better then resolutions. Of course I want to lose the baby weight from being pregnant with Carter. I did it with the other two, I should be able to with him. And I would love to find a way to earn more money for the family. It has been hard with being a sahm and not contributing financially (though Nick and I know that I do contribute in other ways). This is the time of year that it would work out for me to work and who can't use more money. I would like to stay off the computer more, because we all know how much I love it. And I do think that is something that has gotten easier to do since having the baby. And there is always that procrastination issue I have. I should probably take some baby steps and get better at doing things right away.
As for 2007, I did complete some goals (at least from my "things I want to do" thing in my sidebar). We did have another baby. And of course we all love Carter so much. We all got passports. Though in this day and age it is almost a need if you ever want to go anywhere. We did go some place tropical and that was NICE. And I did get a laptop, which is making life a lot easier. I mean this is getting to be an anti-destop computer world. (Of course this makes it easier to be on the computer).
So who knows what 2008 will hold for me and my family. Of course I hope for only good things. My biggest prayer is that my Dad gets healthy and stays that way and we can celebrate many a new year together.

So, raise a glass to you and yours this new year.

C-Ya!!

Holiday Quiz

2007-12-31T10:29:00.000-08:00

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? I love, love, love unwrapping gifts rather then taking them out of bags. And I try to have a lot of wrapped gifts under the tree... especially for the kids to enjoy.
2. Real tree or artificial? Real... we have always had a real one (or a substitute Poinsetta or other holiday plant)
3. When do you put up the tree? About the first weekend of December... or the second if something comes up.
4. When do you take the tree down? Around New Years
5. Do you like eggnog? Not too much
6. Favorite gift received as a child? Rollerblades? Scooter?
7. Do you have a Nativity scene? Yes
8. Hardest person to buy for? ????
9. Easiest person to buy for? ???
10. Worst Christmas Gift you ever received? Clothes that I wouldn't wear.
11. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail.
12. Favorite Christmas Movie? Not really into Christmas movies
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? Mid December
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Probably.. oh yea I did... bath & body stuff because I don't usually use anything outside of myusual products.
15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Nothing specific.... a couple Christmas cookies
16. Clear lights or colored on the tree? Clear. This is the first year Nick has put them on our tree though we had them the last half of the time I spent in my parent's house. They really make the tree less cluttered.
17. Favorite Christmas song? Oh Come all Ye Faithful
18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? Stay home.
19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer? Yes
20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Nick likes an angel and we have an old one of his Grandma's that we use.
21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Morning...make 'em wait!
22. Most annoying thing about this time of year? That it is also cold outside.
23. What is the "corniest" family tradition you do, or miss doing? Don't really have any.
24. Ugliest Christmas Decoration ever invented? ???
25. Which looks best, theme trees or homey trees? Homey trees full of old and new, bought and created ornaments.

C-Ya!!!

Quiet....

2007-12-27T10:17:00.000-08:00

This is all I hear right now. Nick took Jeffrey and Samantha with our friends sledding. Carter is sleeping (at least for this second). Maggie the dog is curled up on my lap and Scooter is somewhere.
And here I sit on the computer. I suppose I should get off of my butt and do something. The house really needs a "spring cleaning" (in the middle of winter). I could probably toss out bags and bags of stuff.
I hope everyone is recovering from the holidays.
C-Ya!!

Carter's first Christmas

2007-12-26T13:07:00.001-08:00

Ok... I couldn't resist at this picture taking opportunity. Yesterday was Carter's first Christmas and look what we found in his stocking...

Also, here is Jeffrey, Samantha and Carter in front of the tree.

I hope your holidays were merry and bright!!
C-Ya!!

Holiday Card 2007

2007-12-26T13:00:00.001-08:00

Since I have so many online friends I thought I would post my holiday card and letter here with a wish for a happy and safe holiday season.

A Merry Christmas to all in this season of miracles,In last year’s letter I asked that we have less of a roller coaster year in the Pickert household, and while we have had our share of highs and lows it seems that the lows were not so bad this year.
Of course our highest high was the birth of our son/brother, Carter Kenneth. Carter was born at 9:45am on Halloween, October 31, 2007 at 7 pounds 15 ounces. And of course we feel that he is one of the three most beautiful babies of all time! Jeffrey has loved having the baby he asked for and Samantha is enjoying being Mommy’s Little Helper. November has really been a challenge getting used to three children and having a new infant in the household.
Carter already has had his first hospital/surgery experience. We took him to the doctor the day after Thanksgiving due to his excessive spitting up. They weighed him and found he had only gained a couple ounces and so we had an ultrasound and found he had Pyloric Stenosis (Enlargement of the muscle between the stomach and intestine resulting in no food getting through). So he had to have a routine surgery the next day and was fine afterwards.
This all came right before we were suppose to leave on a family trip to Cancun. Melissa’s Dad, Ken, has been really sick since last winter and all he wanted to do was take us all (including Melissa’s brother & friends and sister & family) on this trip to Mexico and he got his wish. After getting the whole family passports (including rushing Carter’s) we enjoyed the sun and fun of a November in Cancun.
Unfortunately we closed out 2006 with another low. Our Yellow Lab, Mollie, died unexpectedly at 5 ½ years old. She had a turned stomach. We did not even know she was sick and had gone away for a couple days to come home and find out she had died.
Every year is getting better for Nick and his company, PepperBerry Gardens. Nick had more business this year and worked the 80 hours a week to prove it. He is still enjoying the landscape business, though he is learning he cannot do it all on his own. Jeffrey got to go to work as his “little landscaper” a couple times over the summer and Samantha is planning to get her turn next year.
Melissa made it through her first full year of being a stay-at-home Mom. This summer she was elected President of the Orono/Westonka MOMS club and is enjoying the position.
Nick and Melissa are both still involved at church, though have taken on a little less with Carter’s arrival. We did join the OLL Centennial Committee and are looking forward to the festivities.
Jeffrey started Kindergarten (and full time schooling) at Our Lady of the Lake School. He has amazed us with his memorization of Grace and The Pledge of Allegiance. He is enjoying all of his special classes like Spanish and computers and impresses us with his math skills.
Samantha started preschool at Our Lady of the Lake. She is the little social butterfly and is making friends with all her classmates. Sami (as she is called at school) is trying to keep up with Jeffrey and is learning everything he comes home and teaches her.
Carter is just enjoying attention being lavished upon him and his favorite spot to sleep is in someone’s arms. He is a championship eater and is making up for the lost weight. Carter was baptized in November and is proud to have Ryan & Sarah as his Godparents.
We still have our dogs Max, the Lab; Maggie, the Shih Poo; and Scooter, the Chihuahua. Maggie still is our baby, even if we cannot give her as much attention now. Both Maggie and Scooter are doing great around the baby. And after losing Mollie, Max has adjusted to being the only big dog. Due to the baby, Max was bummed out at not getting to go pheasant hunting this year.
Again, we close asking for prayers for Melissa’s Dad. And we hope your holidays are merry and bright.

Merry Christmas Happy Hanukkah & Happy New Year

Love, Nick, Melissa, Jeffrey, Samantha & Carter Pickert
Max, Maggie & Scooter

For updates throughout the year check out Melissa’s Blog at http://empress4.blogspot.com/& for a fun holiday greeting from us, go to http://www.jibjab.com/sendables/view/x6SAPdnjILKJMwfHoIkCGQKR

C-Ya!!

Pay it Forward

2007-12-23T12:33:00.001-08:00

A couple years back a movie came out called "Pay It Forward" and the world was introduced to the concept of doing for others without getting anything in return. All that one asks is that you help out someone else.
During this holiday season I would like to thank all that have done great things for us and only hope I can pay it forward with interest.
We especially have seen this when it comes to our kids. Whether it be gifts, hand-me-downs or meals we have truly appreciated everything given to us.
So, if you can, pay it forward.

C-Ya!!

Holiday Greetings!!!

2007-12-14T21:00:00.001-08:00

Ok... so I have a ton to update everyone on but have been busy with Carter and the other kids as well as living on less sleep... so while you are waiting on an update - which I hope to do by Christmas - I thought you would enjoy this (turn up your speakers):

Don't send a lame Holiday eCard. Try JibJab Sendables!

C-Ya!

Newest Family Member

2007-11-12T19:38:00.000-08:00

Jeffrey and Samantha P., along with Nick and Melissa, would like to introduce you to their new baby BROTHER!!
CARTER KENNETH P.
Carter was born on Halloween, October 31, 2007 at 9:45am at Methodist Hospital in St. Louis Park. He weighed 7 pounds, 15 ounces and was 20 inches long.
Carter and Mommy (& Daddy) went home that Friday, but as you can expect, life has been so crazy, I finally am able to post. Carter is doing great. Mommy is tired. Nick is happy to have another hunting buddy. And Jeffrey and Samantha love their little brother (even if they sometimes call him a "she"!)
Here is a pic of our new little guy:

More later!!!

C-Ya!!

End of October...

2007-10-30T09:05:00.000-07:00

... and probably the last nice day of the year... guess it may get up to close to 70 today.

And of course, I am still waiting for baby. Samantha had her 4th birthday on Sunday and all she wanted was a new baby for it, but she didn't get her wish (she has since become ok with it). So we just sit and wait. I made it to week 38 on Saturday and both Jeff and Sami were born in the 38th week... so of course I am on edge. There is just so much going on in the kids' school this week that I don't want them to miss. And of course Halloween is tomorrow and I have mixed feelings on missing out on seeing the kids Trick or Treating and handing out candy. *sigh*

I tell you, I cannot wait to be able to lay on my back!!! This tossing and turning all night is for the birds (yes, I know the baby will wake me up).

Otherwise, just feel like sitting around and doing nothing. I have so many things I could do and I haven't felt up to it.

I guess I will just keep you posted.

C-Ya!!!

Still Waiting

2007-10-19T10:04:00.000-07:00

I am still waiting... I mean, yes, I know I am not due for over 20 days.. I am just really, really impatient and antsy. Had a Dr (NP) appt Monday.. she said I am 1cm and 75% effaced. Had an u/s on Tuesday for dates and baby was measuring at 37w1d and probably 7 pounds. It feels like I am having an occasional BH or even real contraction... but nothing consistant. And I am feeling so huge and uncomfortable. When I sleep or stand too long I feel siatic nerve pain on my left side and it is driving me nuts.And I am so hoping to go into labor this week, both kids are off of school all week and so I could send the kids to my parents and not be upset about them missing school. But that plan was thwarted somewhat because my Dad went into the hospital w/ pneumonia Saturday night and HOPEFULLY will be out today. Though my Mom said she would figure things out if I would go into labor.
*sigh*
Otherwise we are pretty much ready - besides packing our clothes. Baby clothes are washed, things are bought, baby's bag is ready, diapers are bought and last night dh took down the car seat and bassinet.
*tick, tock, tick, tock*

And I know... I still need to update on other things... I just feel like doing nothing right about now!!!

30 weeks!

2007-08-31T09:49:00.000-07:00

I figure I have not done a baby update lately. Well tomorrow I will be 30 weeks along... 3/4 of the way!! Firmly into the third trimester. And pretty soon into "getting ready for baby" mode.
I was thinking we were going to name this baby "Stubborn" or a derivative of it.. but I have since heard good news. First, I was measuring small so we needed another ultrasound. Well baby measured right on, so that was good. Then I found out that I failed the one hour glucose and had to go in for the three hour, but I passed that.
Of course I am uncomfortable already. And most people think I am due sooner then I am. And baby is quite the mover and shaker. At least we are getting closer.
Here is a pic taken this week of me

And a close up because I got a new hair cut (& colored it)

C-Ya!

Back to School!

2007-08-31T09:33:00.000-07:00

Yea... can you tell I am counting down the days!!! Honestly, I don't know what it is, but lately it has not been fun to be a sahm. The kids are not listening to me and they are fighting with each other constantly. I am sure it does not help that we have had 2 types of weather, really hot or rainy (as of the past couple weeks for the rain) and have not been outside much. Today is actually nice but they have trashed this house so bad that I do not feel like letting them outside.
So next Thursday Jeffrey will start Kindergarten!! He will be going to school full time, riding the bus and wearing a uniform! We had his open house last night, he got to see his classroom (including where he is sitting - right across from someone he knows - Yay!) and his locker and check other things out. It was quite funny, we went to the new family event before the all school event and we were joking with those that we know because, while we are a new family to the school, we have been going to the church for awhile and know our way around and other parents and such.
Samantha will start preschool in a week!! This is her first foray into school and even though she denies it, I know she is excited. She was so jealous of Jeffrey going to preschool last year. We decided to have her go to the same school as Jeffrey (because Jeff went to the public school the last 2 years) and she will be in class with her "boyfriend". Of course this also means I can call her potty trained!! It has been over 2 weeks since she has had an accident and has attained all her goals - so she is going to get a day with Daddy soon and got her Dora underwear. We also got to see her room yesterday, but will have an official open house next week. And I even went into the bathroom with her to make sure she could do everything and she can.
So I am looking forward to next week. I will actually have 2 1/2 hrs of me time 3 days a week... well at least till the baby is born!!
C-Ya!!

Boating on Lk Minnetonka

2007-08-16T13:56:00.000-07:00

Ok... I admit...there is another fun part of the summer. We are lucky to live very close to Lake Minnetonka (but not ON the lake). And while we have not bought a boat yet (maybe next summer), we have a couple friends that have boats. We have been on our one friends' pontoon a couple times this summer - including to watch fireworks on the lake. And last Sunday my friend Roxanne and her fiance, Josh, invited us on their boat. We tooled around looking at the gorgeous houses and went swimming. It was an awesome day and being in the boat/in the water was a nice reprieve from the summer heat.
And here is a photo mosaic of the highlights

Enjoy the beauty.

C-Ya!

ISO: Washing Machine!!

2007-08-14T21:59:00.000-07:00

We are looking for a new washing machine... looks like ours is unfixable. Guess it turns out the water pooling in our laundry room was not due to our annual have-to-snake-due-to-a-messed-up-sewer-drain, it is actually from something broken in our washer that looks like we cannot fix. So I am trying to convince Nick we should get one off of craigslist.com or used from somewhere else... because we just don't have the money now to buy a new one, especially the kind that Nick would like, and especially because I "supposedly" beat up on them. And of course we need it yesterday because I have clothes stacking up.
So if you do live in the Twin Cities, MN... and know someone that has one, let me know.
And if you don't, please have pity on me... it seems like everything put in that laundry room is doomed - we have already had the stand up freezer go out (thank goodness we have 2 in the garage) and something is wrong with the water softener.
*banghead*

C-Ya!

SS Blog Challenge: Custom Quiz!

2007-08-13T14:43:00.000-07:00

This was this week's SS blog challenge:

Go to http://www.yourblogquiz.com/, and create a quiz for your blog readers. The sky's the limit... choose any topic you want and write your own questions and answers.

So here goes.... enjoy...

And make sure to let me know if you make your own quiz!!

C-Ya!!