Life's a Blur

Have you ever just sat and tried to remember exactly what you did 24 hours ago? Good night, time is like a whirl wind around these parts.

We went to go pick up the Mini from KJ's parents (she's been with them since last Friday. eek! Vaca for me yes, and that was nice, but whoa is this house quiet and boy am I pitiful when she's MIA for so long). I must admit as we were walking in the door I was a little nervous that she'd look at us like, who are you folks (side bar, I often have the sad thought that if I were to pass away today, she'd have no real memory of me, and it almost makes me hyperventilate, anywho), but no fear needed. The kiddo bust into the sweetest 8 tooth grin ever and took off running towards us. Those little legs are hilarious. Other than a horrible outbreak of her eczema and a few scratches on her nose, she's just as I remember her being. ;-) A tad bit more feisty, but I think that's what happens when you stay with the grands and can get away with EVERYTHING.

The rest of the weekend was like I said, a blur. We drove further south so see KJ's gma. It's a small little community, so all the men had gathered at the local church and cooked lunch for all the ladies. The fish was sooo good, and I made no bones about going back for 3rds and 4ths. Shoot, at one point KJ's uncle was bringing it to me straight from the fryer. I love me a fish fry.

We attempted to go to Tuskegee on Sunday for his cousins graduations, but that was just ridiculous. Apparently they only have one graduation the entire year so there are a million students walking and that means 10 million family members trying to get into a space that seats 20,000. We stood outside for 40 mins (they were well beyond standing room only) and then we found a relative that was going back to the house for dinner (we were going to head on home) and gave them our cards. We tried.

After stopping by the hospital to visit one of KJ's aunts, we hit the road home. The mini did great considering we were in and out of the car a thousand times and that whatever normal schedule we try to have was blown in the wind. By the time we left the hospital she was pooped so the hour and a half drive home was perfect. I always try to stay up and talk to KJ on drives so that he won't be bored, but it didn't happen this time. Car sleeping is some of the best sleep ever to me. ;-) And we made it home in time for evening service at church.

It was a weekend full of family and although every event didn't go as planned it was still pretty good. I didn't get many pics but I did catch this one of these two. It didn't last long, as she likes to stop and look at every blade of grass and she needs about 10 little steps to match his one, but still sweet none the less.

Hope you all had a wonderful Mother's Day on both the giving and receiving end.

I was thinking...

of shutting this bad boy down. Really. I don't write enough. I feel like my life has lost tons of interest. But, yesterday I talked to my old friend Sumita. I miss her. High school was ages ago and our lives are completely different and very busy now. Hers especially. :-) So it occured to me that while she's up working at 3 am (like she often does) that if she needed a mental break that she might pop onto my blog to check in on my fam. It was my reminder as to why I blog. Thanks Sumita-mita. I've read others bloggers write how they blog for their family. So that they can look back in years and remember their day to day activities. The more I think of it the more I realize that I too love the thought of the little mini being able to read my ramblings one night in her dorm room when she can't sleep, kind of giving her a different insight into her momma at a time when she's going to think that I just don't understand, or that I'm an old foggy who can't relate to a hip youngster as herself. hehehe

So in short, I'm back.
Some things have changed, some things have stayed the same.
I hope to write more so that my friends feel like the gaps between us are fewer and smaller.
I hope to write so that my best friend and I can play a different kind of 'catch-up' (Now Liz, stop running around and honestly, take 5 mins to read my ramblings... I miss you. I miss us.)
I hope to write so that in time I can say I've been doing this form of 'journaling' long enough to stop saying "I can never stick to journaling". I hate that I'm a journal quitter.
Here's the beginning of a long road of catching up. And staying caught up.
Whether you're out there or not. Whether you've given up on me or not. Whether you comment or not. I'll be here.
And occasionally I can promise that there will be eye candy...
Behold:




Happy Friday friends. I've missed you.

Just making...

... the 10 on Tuesday deadline!

1) I've been a subscriber to the Kraft Food mag for years, but have only done a few recipes. I'm a recipe junkie. Anywho, today I noticed in an old mag, the 1 bag- 5 dinner menu. (They have the same thing on-line here 1 bag 5 dinners) So I'm giving it a whirl. Tonight we had beef stir-fry (very good) and tomorrow it's pork chops with cranberry stuffing. I think this is just what I needed to get me out of my cooking rut.

2) Finished Little Earthquakes by Jennifer Weiner (same author of In Her Shoes) and it was WONDERFUL. Love her writing style.

3) I'm now reading The Choice by Nicholas Sparks. This is the first book of his that I've ever read and I haven't quite grasped his writing style yet, but to his advantage I'm really only about 5 pages in.

4) Trying to plan a 1 year b-day party when you live in a too little space is ummmm, daunting to say the least. I'm weighing out some options. Would it be tacky to rotate guest in and out at scheduled times??? hehehe just joking... maybe

5) KJ's been working from home since his surgery (he's healing up very nicely, able to do a lot more on his own every day) and I must admit that I've really gotten used to him being around. Although sometimes I find myself wondering how in the world are the bills getting paid. It's hard to let go of the traditional eight to five job idea...

6) I've decided to taylor my own clothes. I'm a mender, not a real sewer, but I have a pair of jeans I got from TJ Maxx that I'm going to practice on until I feel like I can do some of my other clothes. I hate when things don't fit me properly. Yep, wish me luck, I'm just going to jump in, no videos, no books, just me, a pair of cheap jeans, and a sewing machine...

7) My resolve to do better with keeping in touch with family and friends has been shot to Hades. I'm sure the few folks I knew in FL think I've forgotten them. I wish our thoughts would materialize themselves into emails and phone calls... hehehe I guess they do in the 'not so lazy' people.

8) The little mover and shaker of the house has taken to charming the elderly in Walmart. I've never seen so many giggles and little waves (mostly on her part, but some on theirs too). I think she's trying to figure out how to get a scooter like their's and ditch the slow cart pushing momma.

9) Ate a pomegranate for the first time the other day. I'm the ultimate fruit lover, but I tend to stick with the ones I grew up on, so recently I decided to broaden my horizons and I try to pick up something different every time I go to Target. I told KJ that I think pomegranate seeds are my equivalent to his sunflower seeds. ( you are suppose to spit them out after you suck off all the red stuff right???)

10) Think I'll leave you with a pic of the mini getting into paperwork that honestly, if she could write, I'd tell her to go to town on. Gotta love random forms that sit around so long you forget what they're for...

Happy Tuesday!

Missed the 10 on Tuesday...

Hey! I've been trying to atleast do my 10 on Tuesdays, but this one slipped by me.
So quickly here's what we've got going on.

1) KJ had knee surgery yesterday. He's doing great so far, starts physical therapy today. In some pain but I'm keeping him drugged up. Oh and I'm very thankful when nurses make cheat sheets b/c I don't listen well when given instructions in these matters...

2) Little mini has been staying with her Nana and Papa since Sat (KJs folks are helping us out while I take care of him after this surgery). I miss her terribly and can't wait to pick her up even though it will be tough having an immobile husband and a very mobile baby. ;-)

3) Somehow I'm still behind on most things.

4) Lauren, would love to do lunch. Can't wait to meet Miss Bee. I'll email you, hopefully sooner than later.

5) I still have to connect with almost all of my friends back here in Bama. I got back and went into survival hermit mode.

6) Shane and Brandi, not avoiding you. Just lazy. Lazy and lonely, so I'm putting a stop to the madness before the end of January. Mark my words.

7) Just finished Made in the USA by Billie Letts (same author of Where the Heart Is). Two thumbs up. Wonderful book, now I just need to do some research so I'm not wondering the aisles in the library looking pitifully as I was last time around. I can never think of all the good books I want to read until I'm sitting at home...

8) I've thawed out turkey sausage and ground turkey and have no idea what I'm about to do with either...

9) Computer battery is about to die so this will have to do.

Happy Wednesday folks!

Oh and today is our 3 year anniversary! Whoot-whoot. We're partying like post surgery-drugged-up rockstars over here. ;-) hehehe We always do our big celebration early so it's very cool that today is a little lax.

lots of lovin

10 on Tuesday

1) I have 2 grocery paper bags full of mail that needs to be sorted thru.

2) Started baby proofing home today. I watched as the little mini crawled over to a wall with a socket, sat in front of it, and looked at me with a huge grin on her face. She was so thinking, "Ahhh-haaa, prefect place for my finger"

3) Candi (my fellow One Tree Hill lover), did you see last nite's episode. Seriously, the creepy guy had me spooked everytime they showed him on screen or in someone's flashback.

4) I hate guns, but last night I told KJ that I want to go to a gun range. Reason being if ANYTHING should ever happen I don't want to be so freaked out by the feel of cold steel in my hands that I can't defend myself or my family. Weird I know but I've decided that I'm more afraid of being paralyzed by my fear than confronting what I'm actually afraid of. KJ's comment was that I am not to watch any more tv.

5) Sam's Club makes an excellent Cranberry Pomegrante juice.

6) I'm reading a book ( Wednesday Letters, a Cmas gift) and last night I didn't go to sleep until 1 b/c I wanted to read 'one more page'. I love that feeling.

7) Wish I could read my Bible like I'm reading this book.

8) Today is rainy and yesterday was crazy with me trying to finish a freelance project, so I'm taking today as a movie snuggle day. So far we've watch Second Hand Lions (loved it) and Fever Pitch. I'm working on Anger Management alone right now as my movie buddy is down for her morning nap.

9) I have over 1000 new msg in my email inbox. That's just pitiful.

10) This new year has started of with so many differences than past years that I'm really anxious (in a good way) to see how the year unfolds.

Happy Tuesday all!!

10 on Tues - The San Diego edition

1) Love Cali weather. I curled my hair this morn and it looked the exact same when I went to put it up for bed. sigh... life without humidity... must be good.

2) Our room at the hotel is gorgeous. Might have something to do with KJ telling the booking pep that we were celebrating our honeymoon. hehehe did you catch that. Not celebrating our wedding (as in an anniversary), but celebrating the wedding night... Anywho, thank you for the upgrade booking pep!

3) I packed a ton of sleepwear that has been sadly retired for some time. Ummm, let's just say that i remembered why they were put into retirement and I even hit the work out room this morn to do some elipitical time... on my vaca....

4) We got into town last night and KJ got sick today. I'm hoping it's just a 24 hour bug. ;-( I've whipped out EVERY home remedy in the book and the hotel staff has been wonderful keeping me stocked with disinfectant, extra towels, crackers and free water. FYI I'll never buy saltines again, oyster crackers is where it's at.

5) Tonight a group of kids (teenagers) got in the elevator and they just looked like it was prom night and their parents had no idea that they had all gone in on a hotel room... anyway, one of the boys asked, "Is the room a smoking room b/c I've got to smoke my cigs." Oh little boy please. So on their way out of the elevator, that same lil boy looked at me and said sarcastically, "You have a good evening maam." and I wanted to reply, "Young man give me your cigarettes and your momma's phone number..." I hate to see youth just wasting away.

6) I miss my little mini. She's staying with my parents and she's on the last little bit of recovery from the cold from Hades. (all that was left when we hopped the plane was a sparatic little cough). Oh and Christmas was a hit. I'm proud to say that one of her fave gifts was the new set of toothbrushes! That's my baby.

7) The San Diego zoo is pretty extensive and has all kinds of random animals. I got some great pics which in more organized life I'd use to make a picture book for the lil mini since Dear Zoo is a favorite book... anywho, we had decided that we would hit up the Wild life part of the zoo too before we leave (separate area separate admission) because it's suppose to simulate an African safari. And the main zoo's lions were ladies and didn't have manes and well, a lion without the mane just isn't impressive.

8) On the plane ride over some of the boys in the band that is going to perform at the Holiday Bowl were siting near us, and I commented to KJ how "pretty" most of them were. Really, perfect skin, flushed cheeks, they looked like a bunch of extras for High School Musical (which I've never seen, but I know the boys are pretty...).

9) Not really San Diego related - I've decided that I should earnestly pray for organization. If King Solomon can ask for wisdom, little ole Roz can ask for organization. I've come to grips with the fact that me getting organized is going to take some divine intervention.

10) I'll leave you with a few of my fav pics from the holiday and from our trip so far. Happy Tuesday!!!!

Ten on Tuesday

1) Clean clothes are fluffier than dirty clothes which means that the same hamper that they were in originally suddenly becomes too small and makes it painfully obvious that the clothes need to be folded.

2) Folding clothes and mopping are my 2 least favorite house chores. Washing dishes is my absolute fave... no, really, it is.

3) My goal everyday is to get out of the house for something/some amount of time. Today almost all of my attempts when down in flaming balls of failure. There's still some time left, so I may try to make it happen as I'm pretty sure the little mini has cabin fever.

4) I have only bought 2 Cmas presents. Ummmm, how many days do I have left?? Good nite!

5) I've been wearing my hair straight and low and behold I've lost the base to my hot curlers, which means the sexy tousled look I had envisioned sporting is more often a funky little bun. hehehe I'm thinking sexy is in the eye of the beholder...

6) This year I'm contemplating emailing out a video C-mas card. Yes, it's cheap, but is it tacky? I'm hoping not as if I don't do this then there will probably be no wishes of merriment from my little family. Shoot, I don't ever get C-mas cards out on time, but this year I wouldn't even make my normal New Year's deadline.

7) Speaking of New Year's, KJ and I are headed to San Diego after Cmas for our early anniversary celebration. I've got to think of attractions to see b/c right now I'm all I'm coming up with is the zoo.

8) I love the show King of Queens. Really, I don't think I've ever seen an episode that hasn't made me laugh out loud at least once.

9) Still have to get a Cmas tree... and Tricey, as much as you DESPISE multi-colored lights, I believe that's the route I'm going. hehehe You probably would have never known had I not typed it here, so pretend like you didn't read that.

10) I MUST get some new jeans pronto. I don't have a single pair that fit me properly and I've been wearing what I like to call "bedroom jeans" (b/c the way they appear to be painted on my body is only fit for the privacy of my bouduare) with long shirts. I'm determined to drop 10 lbs by the end of Dec, but for now, new jeans it is.

Happy Tuesday!!!

Looking for me?

I've been a awol from blogland for so long I'm pretty sure that I'm going to have to kick up the witty rapport to gain readers. hehehe

All is good. Here's the skinny.

We moved.
Loving being closer to home and both families.
Made a career change in that I'm freelancing from home.
All the boxes are unpacked
Haven't hung a thing on the walls yet
Had a great first Halloween and Thanksgiving
Little mini is 8 months and
1) has 2 teeth
2) understands no and stop ;-)
3) with the help of her father has taught herself to stand up in bed and playpen
4) was on the verge of crawling, but now I'm thinking that she's focusing more on walking... go figure
5) loves popsicles
6) is fascinated by other babies and little children
7) is learning how to 'give kisses' but this has been misconstrued by some as biting
8) goes into self induced fits of giggles daily
9) hates with a capital H getting her hair done
10) looks a little more like me every day





When you're not sitting in front of the computer 8 hours a day, blogging becomes another task on the to do list, but I'm really going to try and do better. I'm horrible at keeping in touch and this was my only redemption... can't just let that fall thru the cracks!

Pray all is and has been great for you all!

Running behind...

on so many things. I've decided that 10 on Tuesday might be all the bloggin effort that I can muster for a bit. So, here's to yesterday!

1) WE'RE MOVING!!! Yay! Back across the state line for us. I feel like I can finally take my personal life off pause (but I'm hitting the button on my professional life for a moment).

2) In the spirit of moving, my FL worries are so much lighter. hahahaha I want to toss my head back and laugh at the things that I encounter lately.

3) Speaking of tossing my head back, my original stylist who was out of commission when a bullet bit her bootie (really) is back in action. On Saturday she confirmed that my temple baldness is due to giving birth (thankfully it's coming back, without it, I have one jacked-up hairline), that me with no layers is plain ridiculous, and that bringing back my side swoop bang was definitely the right thing to do. My hair almost looks exactly how it looked in high school 10 years ago. Guess it was time to loop back around. :-)

4) Speaking of high school, I'm pretty sure that take two of the Class Reunion is going to be a flop. Just don't think that many people are interested. Boy did I romanticize the bond the class of 98 had. Oh well. Someone emailed me and stated that the new date (Oct 24th/25th) was too close to the holidays... WHAT?? Halloween maybe?

5) Mon, Thursday, Sat and Sunday are football days in our house which means I DVR all of my shows and watch them when I can. Last nite I watched One Tree Hill and Army Wives. Both had funerals and sad overtones. Yes, I cried. Silent tears for Q who even though I know he's a fictional character, I find myself wishing he hadn't stopped to get gas, and tears for Joan b/c I want her to survive and see/enjoy that precious baby girl. Oh and Claudia Joy, I want her to grab a vase and bash that man's skull in. Yes, I know I'm way to wrapped up in these shows. hehehe

6) The AU game on last week was just pitiful. Come on offense, 3 - 2! I was going to call and mess with some friends of mine who are MS State fans, but decided it wasn't worth the breath.

7) The little mini is a hoot lately. She's trying to lay down the law and her way of going about it is hilarious. For example, so far she thinks she doesn't like apples (I may have used the wrong kind when I made her baby food, I used Golden Delicious b/c I thought they were sweet. Think I'm going to try again with just plain red apples), but refusing to think any child of mine could be anti any fruit, I keep trying. So to counter my tries, she's taken to blowing kisses (aka spitting) every time I put a spoonful in her mouth. She's won for now and we switched to peaches, but you better believe that those apples will be back!

8) Yesterday when I got home from work, KJ had cooked dinner, done laundry, cleaned the bathrooms, and given the little mini a bath. Moments like those remind me that I don't appreciate nor can I love that man near enough.

9) Been jammin to Leona Lewis lately. I really like her. Have you heard her new song Better in time? I think we all can say that this should be the break up anthem.


10) Speaking of music, the little mini likes Thriller, Smooth Criminal, and Ice Ice Baby. Ha, she's definitely following in my musical footsteps. In your face KJ! (side bar in regards to pic below: I do do her hair {and she has A LOT}, but it's easiest to do when she's sleeping so thus during the week she's either busting the baby fro or rocking a strategically placed barrett. Didn't want you to think I was neglecting my momma duties. hehehe)

Oh my goodness...

Aaiii- yiii-yiii, where has the time gone?

Okay so there's some major updating due on my part. Shall I begin?

1) Work has gone from ridiculously slow to insanely busy. I have a post it on my computer to remind me not to complain (see, here's a pic). I've done my fair share of griping and now I truly believe that the Lord is emotionally detaching me from this job in preparation for something else. Maybe something back home?? Who knows! All I know is that I refuse to beg for a workload and I also refuse to work under the premise of "hahahaha, complete the impossible and prep for 2 meetings, a trade show, and finish up the product year all in one week." I'm not the one.


2) KJ's been in AL training for 5 weeks and I must seriously give some heavy duty props to all the single mommas out there. My time wasn't even that bad b/c he made arrangements for both his mom and my mom to come help out over the weeks, and I have the knowledge in the back of my mind that the calvary is coming home soon, but talk about exhausting. Funny how a tiny little person can completely wear you out. I think the secret is the naps. Her abundance and my lack of.

3) Speaking of the little miss, she's hit some major milestones (in no particular order):
• Got her ears pierced
• Has discovered her toes
• Laughs when you find her tickle box (which can be anywhere on any given day)
• Loves to have conversation (when you're talking with her and when you're on the phone with someone else)
• Rolls from tummy to back (I think she did this in anticipation of the college football season starting. Just because she can't say Roll Tide with her Daddy doesn't mean she doesn't get the concept. I'm seriously working on her first words being War Eagle. That'll show him. ;-) )
• Has mastered and likes rice cereal, sweet potato, and bananas; sweet peas not so much, but we're going to reintro them again this weekend (and please no comments on the order in which I've introed the solids, there's method behind my madness)
• Definitely knows who her momma and daddy are and that makes my heart just about burst
Here's a few pics:


4) A girlfriend called to tell me she was going to leave me behind if I didn't jump on the "getting my sexy back" train. So I've borrowed Hip Hop Abs from my coworker for 2 weeks and done it once. Shame! I refuse to get left behind, so me and Shawn T are doing it up sometime soon.

5) The other day I bought pesto sauce and used it on spagetti noodles with grilled chicken. Yum, yum I definitely need to get back in the kitchen. I'm embarrassed at what's been passing for dinner the past 5 weeks. It's tough when you're the only one to please and you can get by on a kit kat and hummus.

6) We have new neighbors who are awesome. 2 days after their furniture came in the invited us over for dinner and boy can she cook. Shame that I still haven't had them over. She's due in the next couple of weeks and I'm trying to think of a dish to take over once the little one arrives. Going to use this as my opportunity to pull ahead in the good neighbor race.

7) The neighbors on the other side of us have also stepped up their awesomeness. He's been cutting our grass since KJ's been away. I was going to just the the amazon grow as it pleased. I'm thinking a dinner gift card would be a nice way to say "Thank you for maintaining our front yard jungle, hope the foreign wildlife didn't bother you..."

8) Have I mentioned how amazing grandmother's are? The little mini loves her Grandma-mom and Nana to pieces. It re-affirms that this is the way the whole circle of life thing should be.

9) Had to postpone the class reunion. Sigh. Disappointed doesn't begin to even tip the iceburg of feelings I had about this. Honestly, it kind of makes me feel like I failed.

10) Let's end on a positive note shall we: Overall things have been really fantastic on our end. And I'm thinking of going to this, just to see what could possibly come out of the woodworks. Ahhh, Florida. ;-)


Happy Thursday peps! Hello, is anyone out there????

Updating...

so that I won't be last on Tricey's "blogs last updated" list. hehehe

• Why do headbands hurt? Speaking of hair, I'm about to straighten mine again and wear it straight for a while... I think... The curly wild do is doing something weird towards the end of my hair where it's curly, curly, and then straight for the last inch or so. Looks scraggly, like I need a hair cut.

• Prepping for the little mini's first plane ride, we tested out the wrap carrier yesterday (pardon the pic craziness, camera was on the wrong setting). She likes it and so do I. (huge sigh of relief... we don't do well with remembering to tote a stroller, just ask Colleen how we met her at the outlets and b/c we had forgot the stroller, someone thought it would be a good idea to tote her around in just her carrier... which she hates and hello, that thing is heavy as all get out.)

• Thank you all for your support and just letting me know that you're there and that I'm not crazy! This should have been number one on this list, but I guess this shows how sparatic my thoughts are. There still aren't enough hours in the day (but really who would say that there were?) but I feel like I've backed away from the ledge a little bit. ;-)

• Class reunion planning is underway! Date is Aug 15th and 16th and all those who visit my blog and went to high school with me, well, head your bootie right on over to the alum site and register and rsvp. Whether you're coming or not, we really need to know who all's been contacted... but I hope you're coming. ;-)

• We've had people visiting for three weekends and nothing makes you feel more "normal" then seeing familiar faces in your home. For a moment it was almost like we all lived close together.

• I'm a little burnt out on bbq as KJ and I finally finished off the rest of the meat from the fourth. Really, the past few nights my dinner has been bbq lamb, bbq brats, maybe a rib or chicken and potato salad out of the container (since KJ doesn't eat it, I had to finish that off myself and who wants the extra dishes, so I just stuck my fork in). Hummm, now I guess I have to make dinner tonight. That's the down side.

• It's impossible for me to pack in advance for a trip. We're headed to NC this weekend and each night I've said that I would pack something (anything) and each night I've come up short. hehehe Shoot I didn't even pack for my honeymoon until the morning of my wedding.

• I'm looking for some good movies to add to my blockbuster list... any recommendations?

• I need to find a tailor to alter some of my clothes. I have work pants and jeans that I've never worn b/c they are either too long or too big in the waist (but fit perfectly thru the thigh). I've read that the key to looking "put together" is having clothing that fits you. My goal is to look "put together".

• I loaned my neighbor my "good" umbrella the other day and they're in the process of moving (either leaving this afternoon or tomorrow morning) so I've been scoping my umbrella lying on a box in her garage. Is it petty that I keep thinking "don't take my umbrella!!" and for this thought to consume my mind? KJ bought me the polka-dot umbrella b/c he said it was sooo me, and he was right. I guess right now it's sooo my neighbor.

Streching yourself too thin to do anything well...

That's what I'm feeling like lately. Like I'm coming in sub-par as a wife, mom, friend, employee, daughter, neice, sister, church member etc. Really everything. I've got a million and eight things running thru my mind constantly of things that need to get done. I have a problem saying no and I'm realizing that my once full plate is now running over. I mentioned once before that it bothered me that I couldn't "keep my word" as I once had. I don't call back, I don't email, favors and requests go weeks before I can even attempt to acknowledge them. Geez louise, something's gotta give right? Now just figuring what's gotta go is the difficult part. I hate to let people down... but really that's exactly what I'm doing.

All of this is spawned from and email I got from my coworker this morn. I was late (been running late all week, but before this I had really been doing pretty well if you can believe that) and he sent me an email in regards to how tardiness at work really adds up over the year. Infuriated me, but I didn't say anything. In fact I'm still biting my tongue b/c I know that if it weren't true then it wouldn't have made a hill of beans difference to me. So I've got some improving to do. I refuse to get another little email like that. I refuse to feel rushed with my child at any time in the day. I refuse to allow my husband to live off of Doritos and gatorade b/c I can't seem to remember the way to my kitchen. (Oh and as a little disclaimer, KJ does EXCELLENTLY in helping the house run smoothly. He does cook, but for the most part he picks the little mini up from day care and that's time consuming in itself. I get home an hour later. So it's 6 or 7 and dinner hasn't even been thought up, let alone arranged to be prepared...hence the mention of the crock pot blog yesterday.) Everything seems to be in a vicious cycle. I can't really get things done in a timely manner at work b/c I'm having to break and pump. I'm not getting as much milk for the little mini b/c I'm sitting at my desk trying to finish up "one more thing" before I go pump. I have long since accepted the fact that you can't be awesome at EVERYTHING, but I'm a strong believer in choosing what you are awesome at. I've got to get my priorities in line and let a few things go.... before I go nut-so.

Okay, this was not a pity post, more so a little helper in helping me hold my tongue. I had to get it out. Had to explain why this morning after waking up at the bootie crack of dawn and packing a million bags for work, daycare, etc, tearing myself away from the sweetest face ever that I don't see near enough during the day, and driving 45 freaking minutes behind every 18 wheeler known to man into a job that I stayed late at last night and almost every night week before last, for which there is no compensation, that I was late. 23 freaking minutes late. sigh.

Happy Wednesday?

It's Tuesday, It's Tuesday

1) I heard a talk segment on the radio yesterday about "baby daddies" and to say it made me mad would be an understatement. I was disgusted. What the crap is wrong with a women where they would lay up with a man who's not even good to them and then expect them to be excellent fathers. Hellloooo, they dip. I won't even get on how the thought of so many men out there not even acting like they have babies makes my stomach turn. Interestingly enough, Obama has a few ideas on how to increase the involvement of absentee fathers.

2) I'm trying out new shampoos since mine is MIA. So far I'm one frizzy headed, woman. Just for ref, I've tried Pantene for curly hair and now Frutruis and I'm not really happy about either (and they're twice the price that Suave was).

3) So far it sounds like a ranting 10 on Tuesday, but that's not how I'm feeling. Here's something good: my little bad apple at church and I seem to have made it thru the rough stage. He's mellowing out some and I think I've figured out a little better how to deal with him. Still a long way to go, but I can see some progress

4) My parents came to visit on Friday and Sat and I can't possibly describe how they are the best grandparents ever. And I think the little mini knows it.


5) I'm proud to say that I hit KJ's father's day gift dead on! He's so difficult to buy for sometimes b/c he doesn't want anything. Well I remember him mentioning a video golf lesson (so he could see his swing and stuff...), so the little mini got him that and a crimson golf shirt from Under Armor and "we" designed him a card. I think the card was his favorite part... let's just say that we know him really well so it was full of inside jokes.


6) I may get to see Colleen and walking Dash this weekend (oh and John too)! Very excited.

7) I saw this website for crock pot recipes and I'm so going to try it. I think I may need a bigger crock pot though... mine is a "single serving" size.

8) When is it too late to send belated b-day cards? I missed a few bdays in April and May and feel horrible. Dear sweet Caroline and Alana-lana if you're reading this: I'm sooooo sorry! Don't doubt how special you each are to me, just know that my mind has been ridiculously overwhelmed lately and it's running on slow.

9) I am in the throws of planning/helping with a class reunion, and 2 family reunions. I guess summer time is the time to get reunited.

10) A friend approached me about a subject this morn and I have to say that I love the way that she did it. It reminded me how good of friends we really are. She inspired me to "step up my friend game", which sadly I think I've let slip. Too many excuses, none of them good. Love you tons my Tricey and thanks for being my reminder.

The Tuesday 10

1) I have waaayyyy too much paperwork on my desk. Today is the day to purge.

2) Love Kate Voegele. She plays Mia on One Tree Hill and low and behold she's really a recording artist. She's talented, young with a strong voice. Here's her remake of the song Hallelujah:


3) Been on a superhero kick for the last couple of weeks. I'm addicted to Smallville (the story of Superman as a teen, KJ and I rent the old seasons on dvd) and then KJ and I went to see Iron Man on Saturday night. Sigh. Oh how I love super powers.

4) That's right, you read correctly, KJ and I went to a movie. And nope we're not those people who take a small baby to the movie to hope that she won't cry, but secretly know that she will and that it will disrupt everyone else who payed the ridiculous fee for 2 hours of entertainment. hehehe KJ's sister wanted to keep her, so the little mini went to her first sleep over.

5) Our house is crazy quiet without that 10lb bundle of giggles and screams.

6) Army Wives is back on tv! The season started off with a bang (literally). Just in time as most of my other shows are going into re-run phase right now.

7) Last week was ridiculously busy at work. I came in early, I left late. Today is the first day where we've been able to breathe and I have about a million personal tasks to tackle. And yes, I plan on tackling them during work hours.

8) I've been mentally beating myself up about doing what I say I'm going to do. Honestly, I've gotten quite horrible (like if I say I'll call you right back, I normally don't...or if I need to email you something, it might take me waaay longer than it should). I'm going to work on getting better at that, b/c I don't like the thought that my word has lost credibility.

9) I have grandiose Ideas of kindness, but a very small budget. Unfortunately this results in more thoughts than actions. I'm working on changing this also as I know all too well that people need to know you care and that they are thought of.

10) Father's Day is around the corner and I'm actually ahead of the game. The little mini and I have knocked out KJ and my dad, now we just need to figure out what we're getting KJ's dad. Is shopping for all men difficult?

****** Bonus b/c I have so many randoms going thru my mind********

11) I'm forcing myself to finally make the jump to cloth diapers. We've finally used up just about all of our freebies and I currently own 6 bumGeniuses that I'm washing up tonight to test out for the next couple of days. There's about to be a lot of washing going on at our little abode (atleast until I purchase more cloth diapers, but I'm not one to jump into change, I'm more of an ease into it kind of girl). Wish us luck. ;-)

12) I'm on a quest to recreate some of our favorite restaurant dishes. First up is the Jamaican Jerk Chicken wrap from Tropical Smoothie. Oh so yum.

13) Is it wrong to have quams about helping people who make no effort to help themselves. There's a woman at church who has a niece that's young (17, 18, or 19) and had a baby girl around the same time I had the little mini. The girl's boyfriend is apparently a drug dealer and she does not work. Anywho the lady at church has stopped me on several occasions when I've got the little mini and said, "Oh, that's a cute outfit. Just pack up the clothes she can't wear anymore and I'll pick them up and give them to my niece. I'm so tired of seeing her baby in the same onesies." This is going to make me sound mean, but I always think. "Sorry, not my problem. Tell your lazy niece to get off her bum and go get a job." I'm praying on the situation and doing some studying up on the act of being kind. I'm a huge believer in not handicapping someone with kindness, by not allowing them to take care of themselves if they are capable. Plus the lady at church comes across gruff, although I know she's not always intending to, but I always think, "Oh sister, you don't know me. You can't MAKE me do anything." I've got some growing to do.

14) Do you all use you tube? I've been trying to upload videos for the fam, but having a little trouble with the private option. Is there another thing like you tube that allows you to share videos?

15) Okay, that's it. I've got to clear off my desk and then start tackling some of this Personal Task List. Geez louise. Will there ever be a day when I can look around and think, "My, I have absolutely nothing to do?" hehehe I'm not thinking so. And for picture sake...This is the progression of the face that says, "I'm making you a surprise in my pants." aka "the poop face" (If I ever get out of my house then I'll take pics of more than just the little mini, but until then, bare with me. ;-) )

Top 10 on Tuesday

(Like how I threw the "Top" in there for variety"

1) Why in the world have they discontinued Suave for curly hair? Seriously, I found one bottle of shampoo at Dollar General. I'm still in search of some conditioner...
2) Yesterday I had to reason with myself as to why I could not eat oatmeal cookies for breakfast. Although, of all the desserts, don't you think oatmeal cookies and carrot cake sound remotely nutritious?
3) Gotta start cooking. Gotta. I think I'm going to go on a casserole crusade. Any ideas?
4) Trying to pull together KJ's daddy's day gift. He wants a video-taped golf lesson so that he can better see his form for improvement. Shamefully, I was trying to reserve this gift for his bday b/c there's just not a lot of things that he ever says he wants.
5) When little ones poop in the tub, it is absolutely gross, but the face they make when doing it is hilarious. Kind of like shock and "maybe you won't notice" all in one expression. I'm not calling any names, so this person shall remain anonymous.
6) Went to Target and scored some new shirts. Now I just need new shoes. Does anyone know when Dillards does their shoe sale? It's the best...
7) Speaking of sales, it's Semi Annual time for Bath and Body and Vicky Secret. I'm going to try and hit both up... heaven knows I need to clean out my undie drawer.
8) The environment friendly non-toxic Method cleaning products are pretty good. I love the eucalyptus mint bathroom scrub. I've been using it frequently to clean out the tub in the middle of and after someone who shall remain anonymous' bath...
9) I really really like this song. It makes me turn my radio up loud and bounce around in the driver's seat.
10) I'm getting the itching for a girls' weekend. Wish gas and plane tickets weren't only for the rich and famous. ;-)

It's Monday...

Funny how no matter how long of a weekend you have, Monday seems to come crashing in way too soon.

On Friday our company went canoeing. LOL. Good times. I must say that navigating a canoe is a little more difficult than a kayak as my partner and I kept running into tree branches and stumps along the river's edge, but although we may not be Olympic condition yet, we laughed the entire time. My only fear was that I might have a tick in my hair after going thru so many branches... After washing my hair on Friday, Sat and Sun, I'm glad to report that I'm tick free. ;) And just as I had suspected, canoeing was great exercise (although my arms weren't really that sore the next day...) but in the non tedious way. I'm up for doing it again.

On Sat. I took the little mini to Sears to get some quick pics made. She did well, although she was so not trying to smile, more so curious as to why she was there. I've determined that portrait studios for kids is the ultimate job for easy up-selling. It's hard to resist a cute pic of your own kid. I went in with a coupon for 1 pose several pictures and I ended up leaving with 1 pic from 4 poses. Spent a little more than I intended, but I'm chalking it up to a learning experience, and plan on just scanning the 8x10s and turning them into wallets at home.

The rest of the weekend was pretty easy going. KJ made the best dinner of ribs and lamb with potatos au gratin and green beans. Just thinking of that lamb makes my mouth water! Anywho, we had friends over for dinner and then KJ proceeded to wipe us all out in Monopoly. They hadn't played since they were children and they failed to heed to my warnings that by no means do you deal with KJ, but again a learning experience (for them). By the end of the game KJ owned just about every property and had established what we called "Suicide Lane" on two sides of the board.

So a pretty easy going weekend. I didn't get half the things done that I probably needed to, but nothing was urgent, so no worries.



Happy Monday all!

Up for discussion

Here's the short before I get into the long. KJ and I have different taste in things. In general I'm wayyyy artsy-fartsy and he's more sensible. So when it comes to fashion we don't always see eye to eye. His fashion or mine. I have long since stopped trying to buy him clothing. Unless it is something specific that he's picked out or just a plain polo shirt to replace another one for work then I generally don't even bother. On the flip side, KJ can generally pick out an entire outfit for me and I'll love it. This is why: 1)He does have good taste, but it's a very narrow vision overall and 2) I'm easier to please and fashion wise I'm up for variety. He on the other hand is not.

So here's what's up for discussion. Tell me what you think.
I'm cleaning out my closet this weekend and there are a few shirts that I have that KJ HATES. They're not hootchie shirts or anything, but they're very artsy. For ex, one is pink striped with strategically placed bleach marks around the graphic design. I love the shirt, KJ not so much. So I started thinking, I only wear the shirt when either I'm visiting with friends or when I won't be seeing KJ (if I'm out of town or something) b/c I just hate to hear the "Why do you like that shirt so much" comment coming. So then I have a mental debate with myself about dressing to please me and dressing to please my husband. In theory, every single moment of everyday, I would like for him to look at me and love EVERY aspect of my very being. Sidebar: this is just about the clothes, I promise that we're not superficial and that our love is based on more than either of our wardrobes or outward appearances. But humor me and follow my twisted train of thought...

Anyway, if I wear something that is unflattering to him, then who am I trying to appease. Simple answer... myself. Some clothes just make me feel good. I have a t-shirt that I got from Goodwill in AU that says Auburn High HAS Athletics. It cracks me UP (just ask Liz, it's a running joke that whenever I wear it I'll look at her and say Get IT?! Get it?! and most times she just shakes her head). It makes me feel good.
Now this wouldn't even be up for discussion if the following situation had not occurred: KJ and I were talking about cologne and I mentioned how I didn't like the smell of something and he said that he wouldn't wear it then b/c who else would he be trying to smell good for. This is kind of the same thing right?? Or at least along the same lines, right?

Anywho, just food for thought. And to throw a wrench in it all, I own a lot of perfume that KJ doesn't like the smell of (some he calls old lady scents). I love perfume and all different kinds of scents, but by the time I get home it's all worn off so that's not really the same issue as clothing... okay I'm just rambling now.

So plain and simple: do you rock and outfit that your significant other can't stand?

Happy Thursday peps!

Just a few things...

that were on my mind this morning as I drove into work.

1) I love leggins. Love them. I don't wear them, but I plan on trying to fix this soon. I'm just not that fashion forward and I have a horrible habit of waiting until a "trend" is on it's tail end before jumping on board. Well, leggins here I come.

2) Wearing leggins requires that you have great shoes. I need great shoes. Most of the shoes in my closet are dusty, scuffed up, and barely hanging on. I was trying to find a good shoe repair shop, but now I'm thinking that my whole collection needs an overhaul.

3) This morning a rabid 18 wheeler drove way too close for my comfort for most of my commute to work. Seriously, I had to go 80 just to get away from his side as he had decided to speed up and ride beside me and then he would fall back and speed up again seemingly wanting to bump me off the road. My plan was to tell whatever police officer that pulled me over that I was only speeding to maintain my safety and give them the truck drivers license number. On second thought I decided I should probably call the "How's my driving" people and report his driving. Lo and behold, of course he didn't have that sticker on his truck. The vehicles that need it most, could care less about what people think of their driving.

4) Large dogs that stand up in the bed of trucks, or stick their heads all the way out of vehicle windows frighten me. I fear that no one has ever explained to them as it was explained to me what could happen if you stick something out of the moving car and it gets caught on something not moving. I believe something along these lines occurred to a drunk man in Bham when his friend was driving him home one night... or maybe I saw it in a movie... hummm.... regardless, I was brought up knowing that you keep all appendages inside of moving vehicles. ALWAYS. (Just looked it up and it was in GA, back in 05. Here's the link to the story if you don't believe.)

5) On yesterday's post I made a comment about only being able to converse about the little mini's poop. I was thinking this morning that whether I'm trapped in the house or out and about, I should still have a repertoire of interesting subjects ready for discussion at any moment. Sadly I do not keep up with the news. In fact if it's not celebrity news then I'm pretty much uninterested. That's pitiful. I can tell you that Kim Kardashian made a naughty video with Ray J (Whitney Houston's current boy toy and the singer Brandi's little brother) that kind of helped put here on the celebrity map (along with her bootie) and now she's dating Reggie Bush who plays with the New Orleans Saints, but I can't tell you if it's been decided that the Democratic presidential candidate will be Hillary or Barrack. I'm thinking that I will log on to USA today and read at least 3 articles a day. Or maybe I'll subscribe to Time magazine (or at least read the one that's left in the work kitchen every week). And then I had the best thought of all. I'm going to call Liz's Jon (who reads the paper EVERYday) and tell him to tell me what's going on in the world. That's kind of killing two birds with one stone. I get the worldly haps and Jon can ease that "I miss Roz" pain that I know he feels daily. Even if his fiance is my fraternal twin with a different birthday...

That's it. Gotta get to work. ummm, really I have to go pump in my car, but that's a whole nother post. ;-)

Oh and here are a couple of pics since I've been reading more and more about people saying a post isn't a post without pics. I present to you, the most interesting person in our house:



Happy Wednesday peps!

Oh Good Night...

it's been way too long. Please excuse my pitiful blogging... or lack there of. I'm back. Is anyone out there???
How about a quick 10 just to test the waters. ;-)

1) Behind is not even the word I should use to describe how I'm lacking checking off things on my to-do list. Ummm, class reunion, thank you cards, baby's blog, sending out pics to my family, oh, the list is endless. I just mailed some friends their wedding gift, and they got married in mid April.

2) Instead of using the long weekend to check things off the afore mentioned list, I got caught up on my DVR'd programs. That's something I can do when the little mini is awake or sleeping. Excuse...maybe....

3) We have an office Canoeing Day on this Friday. I'm adding this to my list as #7 of why living in FL is not sooooo bad. I'm really excited, but also trying to figure out what to wear and how I'll combat any mesquitoes or snakes that I may encounter.

4) The working mom situation has gotten a lot better. In fact that's an understatement. I'm blessed and God's given me a peace of mind even I hadn't anticipated. The little mini's in "real" daycare and she apparently likes it. And I like having something else to talk about besides her pooping schedule. ;-)

5) I have a sweet tooth that's going to be the death of me. The other day I ate pound cake for breakfast, this morn I had banana bread, and it's not unlikely for me to have popsicles as my snack of choice.

6) Somehow, in the aftermath of pregnancy, I lost my bootie. I was telling a girlfriend this morn that I watched a special on the Kardashians and I am mesmirized by Kim's bootie. I think my exact words were that I covet it. Shame.

7) I got an iTunes gift card for my bday and I still have not used it. I'm still savoring all that it COULD buy and not using it. Ridiculous. I'm using it soon. Put that on my to-do list.

8) I have an internal debate going as to whether I should take the little mini to Walmart or Sears or somewhere for some formal pics, or just set her up in the house and do them myself. I'm by no means a photographer, but then again neither are the people at Walmart...

9) I'm struggling with 10. I'm just not that interesting anymore!!!!

10) Okay how about my current favorite pic of the little mini. I'll blog again soon. And I promise to be somewhat entertaining. Well, Blogger's not letting me upload a pic. I kind of feel like my "comeback" will be a little disappointing now. ;-) Like Prince doing another tour and only performing the nasty songs no one knows. Sorry everyone, it's not me, it's Blogger.

lots of lovin peps!

Today's Tough

It's my second day back at work and today is waaayyy tougher then it was yesterday. I think yesterday started with some hiccups that had my mind in another place, and I was greeted with a "welcome back" luncheon, and to be honest the whole day felt kind of fake... like work was something I was doing just to get out of the house for a moment. Today I think the reality has kicked in.

My mom's here keeping the little mini for this week to help ease me into transition so I wouldn't have to go into work AND drop her off with someone who I don't know that well (day care). I can't begin to explain how beyond helpful this has been, but last night as my sweet baby was restless and just not trying to get any shut eye, it hit me that we hadn't spent enough time together and I think she missed me. To say I missed her was an understatement. Okay... I'm done typing about this, it's going to make me cry.

So: since I last posted:

• We have successfully completed 2 car trips with baby in tow.
• We've gotten over a really rough case of baby acne.
• We're steadily attacking the really rough case of adult acne.
• I've had 2 friends graduate with some well deserved degrees.
• I grew a whole year older.
• I had my hair done by a new beautician b/c my old beautician got shot in the bootie (really), but she's okay and will be back in the salon by my next appt.
• I got a new phone and new service (for those who tried to call/text yesterday things didn't get worked out until last night).
• I celebrated my very first Mother's Day on the receiving end of the well wishes.
• I've watched enough Ellen to really miss her dancing around 3:00
• We've been on the verge of an "awake smile" to counter the ones she gives when she's sleeping.
• We've started "talking" and in all that cooing, I'm pretty sure she's got some very strong opinions.
• I've decided that I need a workout regimen FAST as I'm fitting into prepreg clothes just fine, but there is TONS of toning to be done.
• I'm trying to figure out what to get a very special little boy who's hitting the big 01 on Thursday.
• I still haven't found my Liz a dress.
• I have been on the edge of insanity many times and have somehow not fallen over.
• I have a friend locally. Really. I've talked to her on the phone several times, she's been over to the house a few times, and the little mini and I stopped by to visit her on Sun. Progress.
• The little mini had a "girlfriend" to join her circle of "you're going to be my friend b/c my mommy and your mommy are friends" a whole 6 weeks early. And we love our little Phoeni-ni to pieces.
• Nick Cannon and Mariah Carey got married. For some reason I'm obsessed with how very wrong this seems. I don't know why, but I can't even begin to make them work as a couple in my mind... but who am I? (Still doesn't it seem a bit odd to you too???)

Very random, but my mind's all over the place. Mostly jumping between "I can do this work thing" and "Grab your work bag and run". ;-)
Anywho, just wanted to let everyone know that we're alive and kicking over this way. I should be a little more productive in blogging and emailing in the fact that sitting at this desk was always the perfect time for me to get those things done. hehehe I know you're thinking, "so when do you work??"... don't worry about that.

Happy Tuesday everyone!