10 things I'm thinking on the 10th

1. My first born will be starting 1st grade in 14 days. Just two short weeks and she'll be gone ALL DAY LONG. I think I'm really, REALLY gonna miss her. We've been getting all the documents for registration and should have her registered at the school down the road tomorrow. We have gathered all her school supplies and purchased new school clothes. The only thing left is just a good pair of tennis shoes. Does anyone know how to stop a child from growing up?
2. I'm looking forward to doing pre-school with Hailey. I'll probably bring Carter in some. They're never too young to learn, right? It's gonna be so much fun. Hailey's been working on the Starfall website (See my sidebar under sites worth a look-see - I'd put the link up, but I'm just too lazy right now) It's so cute when she asks if she can do her school on my "puter" Santa may have to save up for a couple of netbooks for Christmas this year...
3. We've started discussing boy names. We still can't make up our minds. Seems like the girls' names were so much easier. We're thinking we might have to send out another poll like last time. Funny, but the name (Carter) that we both really liked took the poll by a storm. This time, we've come up with a few new ones and still have some of the ones from last time. Any suggestions we can take into consideration before the poll comes out?
4. I've really missed my blog. I get on and I visit all the updated blogs in my blogroll, but I just never update. I've missed blogging on so many different things. Maybe I can just use WOW Wednesday to post some pictures from recent activities. (Like when the girls ate "Mud Bugs" or Carter's first time to hold his own ice cream cone or his trip to the barber shop with Daddy) It's not like I haven't had anything to blog about. I've just lacked the motivation. It's got to be either the pregnancy......or facebook. (Darn you, facebook!)
5. So, could it be pregnancy brain that is telling me that a minivan might not be too bad? I mean, the doors practically open themselves. And all that storage... Don't get me wrong, I'll always be an SUV girl, but when we put that third row up, I lose most of my storage room. Once the baby (we call him "Walt" - story to come) arrives I'll need that big ol' double stroller for Carter and him in the back and it will NOT fit in the SUV (maybe if I had the Expedition EL or a Suburban) with the third row. Where am I gonna put groceries?
6. Should I just buy a bus?
7. We're gonna have to get a new carseat/stroller/travel system for Walt. The one we used with the other three is not only outdated by safety regulations, but it's falling apart. I practically cried when Hot Rod took the old carseat/carrier out to the trash man. I loved that thing. It was silly, I know, but I loved the pattern. I mean, we could hardly get the seat off the base in the car. Drove Hot Rod crazy sometimes trying to get Carter out of the car. I can't tell you how many times we just unbuckled him from the seat. Oh, and the stroller...What an awesome stroller. It had cup holders and storage up near the handles just perfect for two drinks and keys and cell phone...and the basket at the bottom holds SO MUCH STUFF. One of the best features, you could push and guide it or even fold it with ONE HAND! How will we ever find the perfect replacement...?
8. Okay, now I'm thinking about "Walt" so I guess I should explain. Or have I done that already? (I can't remember.) Anyway, so maybe there is more to the magic of Disney...WALT Disney. Long Story Short (LOL) we had a Disney World trip planned for October - the SAME week that "Walt" is due. Even bought the stinkin' airline tickets. FYI - pregnancy is not covered under the airline ticket insurance. (Glad we didn't waste our money on that.)
9. Speaking of insurance...PPO's are horrible. Co-pays and Co-insurance and deductibles. Covered and non-covered, in-network and out of network...blah, blah, blah...It's sad when I can easily say that the hassle of Cobra Insurance for Carter's birth was waaay less trouble and inconvenience. Getting the PPO to pay what they are supposed to is next to impossible.
10. Okay, just saw the end of The Tonight Show. What is going on? They actually had Lyle Lovett singing something along the lines of "I'll choke my chicken all night long" I miss Leno...

10 things I'm thinking on the 10th

1. We are officially 1/2 way through our pregnancy! 'Watching' all the babies being born at church (I think there is at least one a month until Nov.) is really starting to make me anxious. Not in a bad way. I'm excited, but I don't want things to speed up. I'm good with the way things are progressing.


2. Four kids! WOW!! Are we crazy or what? I always thought I'd have three children. Once we had number three, our family still did not feel complete. To be honest, Hot Rod always wanted our family to be an even number. Something about theme parks and everyone having a buddy to ride with...


3. I think we finally figured out how this keeps happening. :)


4. The baby has started getting quite active. It's such an incredible feeling when the baby moves. For about a week, I was worried because I wasn't feeling anything. Now, I'm more tuned into the feelings - and relieved to feel that little bit of reassurance that baby is okay.
5. I'm very happy to be through the "morning sickness phase". (I almost typed "faze" LOL!)
6. Now, I seem to have reached that "nesting phase" I know, it's early, but I've got a lot of work to do. I worry that, eventually, I might end up on bed rest which could cut my preparation time greatly. (like by a couple of months!)
7. Carter has started touching my belly and saying "Baby" (in his own way. It comes out something along the lines of "bay-bay") He also leans over and gives the baby a sugar (kiss) So sweet!!
8. We got to see an ultrasound of the baby on Tuesday. The girls were so excited.
9. We found out the baby is now around 11 ounces.
10. And...it's a BOY!!

10 things I'm thinking on the 10th

1. Happy Mother's Day to all you Moms out there!! And for those of you who still have your moms, be sure to let them know how much you love them, not only today, but every day. Enjoy every moment you have with her...you never know which moment will be your last.(I'll always miss you, Mom!) And for those of you who have lost your mom, may God give you peace today and everyday. May your memories bring a smile to your face and joy to your heart.


2. I'm annoyed with myself for being so lazy on the whole blogging thing. Sometimes, I just don't feel like thinking up the right words and other times, I don't want to download the pictures from the camera and size them down for the blog. Is that bad?


3. I think I have the biggest belly for someone who is only 3 1/2 months pregnant. Oh well...I guess I'll worry about that in another 5 1/2 months.


4. I'm excited we'll be going to San Antonio soon. We plan on visiting Sea World, Fiesta Texas and the Zoo. Oh, and we're taking my in-laws. I can't imagine how wonderful it will be to have 4 adults to the 3 children. This will be an awesome vacation. I wish it was going to be longer. (and that my foot wasn't broken!)


5. Watching all these companies going bankrupt is a little depressing to me. I sure miss the Turkey O'Toole and the Monte Cristo from Benningan's. (Why do my thoughts so often turn to food?)
6. It's funny, but after I finished my 100 list on my 100th post, I actually thought of about 25 more things I could have listed.
7. I am so glad everyone is finally chilling out about this H1N1 flu. Ugh...it got really out of hand. It has been humorous seeing the funny people and their masks, though...
8. Italian food used to be my favorite and I find it strange that even though I really have no true favorite kind of food right now, I had Italian food 3 times this weekend. And it was YUM!! (see?...food!)
9. I am very proud of the Houston Rockets! I can NOT believe that they beat the Laker jerks without two of our star players. Dikembe Mutombo and Yao Ming. (GO ROCKETS!!)
10. I think I found a bonus to being pregnant this summer. I didn't expect to be "in shape" for swim suit season and now....IT DOESN'T MATTER!! YAY!!

10 things I'm thinking on the 10th

1. I don't like cleaning. I like my house to be clean, but I don't like to do it. Funny, once I get started, I get on a roll and it's fine. I just need the motivation to get moving. Since Easter is this Sunday and we have the big backyard, the festivities will be here. And honestly, I'm excited about that. I love having people over! (You know, it makes me clean - kidding! kind of...) Anyway, we purposely bought the house we did on the lot we picked so we could have people over. I actually wouldn't mind having people over at least 3 weekends a month. I think that qualifies me for crazy benefits.
2. My kids have a ton of toys. I mean a TON!! What kids in America don't, right? Well, they love to pull all the toys out and play to their hearts content. And they play really well together. (which is fantastic) BUT, when it comes time to clean up - LOOK OUT!! All the sudden the mound of toys which is insufficient at keeping them busy enough to not be bored are TOO MUCH to clean up. How, I ask you, is that possible??? I'm thinking I might buy a Mary Poppins costume and work on my magic. "Just a spoon full of sugar helps the medicine go down, the medicine go do--wn, medicine go down. Just a spoon full of sugar helps the medicine go down. In the most delightful way. For every job that must be done there is an element of fun, you find the fun and snap the job's a game..."
3. I think my son is going to be six foot tall. At just a year old, he's already 31 inches tall. Isn't there a rule that says at two years of age, you can double their height to figure out how tall they will be when they grow up? If so, we're well on our way. Maybe when he finally starts walking I will buy him a bat and work on his baseball skills.
4. The hubs just told me I complain a lot. I didn't think I did, but now he's got me self-conscious. So, every time I start to open my mouth, I stop and ask myself, "Is this a complaint?" And he has me worried...Do I really complain THAT much?!?!
5. I'm looking at my little boy standing in the middle of his toys shouting at me. (Something in baby gibberish only he truly understands) And he's smiling. He squats down, stands back up and shouts. Now, if he can do all that, why does he refuse to walk? Yesterday we played outside a little while after bagging all of Daddy's yard clippings. Carter decided to crawl off our blanket and toss my shoes onto the patio. He's a pretty smart little boy. He knew that if he crawled on the concrete, it would hurt his knees. So, he crawled on his hands and his feet. It was pretty funny! Again, why does he refuse to walk? Silly boy!
6. I think I might be nearing the end of the morning sickness - YAY!! I still get sick if I eat anything sweet. But, boy does it taste good going down. I just pay for it later.
7. I'm really looking forward to feeling like going to the gym again. Hopefully, Carter will do better with the girls who "work" in childcare at the gym. (And yes, I use the word "work" loosely) I want to workout thru this pregnancy so that after the baby comes, it's not so hard to get my shape back where I'd like it to be. I think I've been a little "relaxed" with the first three babies. I keep watching these shows like "The Biggest Loser" where they show before they got big pictures and it scares me to death. Some of these people were pretty small before they put on all their weight. Now, mind you, I've never been even the least bit large, but I feel that way. Don't throw anything at the computer or leave mean comments, but I used to be a size 2/4 before I had babies!! WOW!!!
8. I've had a hard time finding Easter dresses this year. I've been to Target and Kohl's which is where I usually find good dresses and came up empty handed. Now, I did find some possibilities at Target, but I didn't buy them because I always find adorable dresses at Kohl's. NOT this year! Kohl's was a total bust! Oh, except the Easter bunny found some Hannah Montana pajamas for Maddie. OH!!! Boy moms, where in the world do I find nice clothes (for Easter, Christmas, etc...) for Carter?? I really wanted to buy him a nice new outfit to wear on Sunday and I can't seem to find anything (in his size 12m - 18m) that will look nice. And can anyone tell me why people insist on putting gray and tan together...? Am I the only one bothered by that? UPDATE: Went shopping Sat. night with the hubs and found several dresses for the girls at Kohl's (different location this time) I even have dresses for the girls for July 4th!! YAY! Hailey came out with 5 dresses since they had so many cute ones in her size for only $10. I was also able to find a nice button up shirt for my little man. Oh, and I got $10 cash for every $50 purchased that I could spend at Kohl's next week. Doesn't get much better than that!
9. I don't think there is a Kmart within a 100 mile radius of my home and yet I see their commercials daily. Do you think they forgot to stop airing the commercials when they moved out of town. Nah, me either, but do they really have to tease me with the great prices. Don't get me wrong...I didn't shop there when they were here, but it still just seems mean to air them here.
10. I decided to allow anonymous comments on the blog. I just thought that maybe one day some of you secret readers might want to come out of hiding and at least tell me your first name. (blogrollofpatience? - I'd love to visit, but I don't have access) Or perhaps relatives might want to comment without having to sign up for a Google ID??? Really, I just love comments. I get excited to see how many people visit per day, but comments are really where it's at! Sometimes, I wonder if I set up my blogroll too well and people just like to use me for a springboard to all our mutual friends' blogs...which is okay. That's why I did it - for myself - and for you! Anything I can do to make your life easier!! LOL~

On this Good Friday, don't forget to thank the Savior for His sacrifice -
HAPPY EASTER!

10 things I'm thinking on the 10th

1. There are a lot of birthdays in March. To name a few off the top of my head: Hot Rod, Carter, Steph Y, Tyler Y, Micheal B, Amber R, Dustin B...and the list goes on!
   
2. There are also a lot of people pregnant. I think I know of like six or seven!! I won't be listing those. I'm not sure who knows about whom...and what if I forget someone...and there is a girl I know of, but I don't know her name. So, I'll just leave it at six or seven gals.


3. I haven't told anyone this, but my goal is to blog every other day. To be honest, I'm doing good to blog once a week.


4. The state of the country (not to mention the economy) has me worried. I just see us going down a very, very bad path.


5. I was channel hopping as I sometimes do during nap time - why is it that most movies on Lifetime (a channel that is supposed to be for women) always puts women in horrible situations? Let me name a few: kidnapping, sexual assault, abuse, murder...What woman wants to watch that?!


6. Okay, it's after 10 PM and I can hear my girls screaming and laughing over the baby monitor in Carter's room. ***blogging break***


7. I love that the girls get along so well, but sometimes I think having them in the same bedroom is not the smartest idea I've ever had.


8. Just wondering...how does a single woman with no job afford 10 nannies on top of tons of diapers and food for 15? Just wondering...


9. Carter has learned so many new things, but that's a whole nother post in itself and might require pictures or even video.


10. Why is it that the things we want, you know those "comfort foods" have to be the things that aren't necessarily good for us? Ice cream, chocolate, Coke, fried foods. Just once, I'd like to say, "Man, I would kill for a nice grilled chicken salad with fruit for dessert!" and actually mean it. (well, not the "kill" part)

10 things I'm thinking on the 10th

1. I used to think when I looked at my batteries that had 2009 stamped on them - "2009!! That's so far away!" I still have some of those batteries...


2. I love yard work. I don't mind mulching a flowerbed, pulling weeds, mowing... Just being outside is wonderful - especially when it's sunny. Sunshine makes me happy!


3. I do not love housework. I can't stand cleaning the house. Especially, the bathrooms. Yuck!!


4. I don't mind doing laundry, to an extent. Lugging them downstairs (okay, so I throw them over the balcony - it's fun for the girls...okay, okay...so it's fun for me!!), sorting them, washing them (really, the machine does the hard work), shifting them to the dryer (LOVE the smell of Bounce dryer sheets), I don't even mind folding them. And...that's where it ends. I'd rather someone else hang them and put them away!!


5. Lately, I've been having the hardest time watching shows involving children. I can't stand to see anything bad happen to kids. I know it's just a show and they're just actors, but it's too much for me to handle. My heartstrings can't take the pull...


6. I love opening up my house to company! I totally hate the part where I have to clean the house, but what better excuse for cleaning than for a bunch of friends to come over.


7. I have the best friends. I love spending time with them. Even my newer friends are awesome. I think I could hang out with them at least once a week.


8. I feel sad seeing companies go bankrupt. I don't like to see anyone fail. What's crazy is watching these big businesses that I've seen around for what seems like forever and they're going under. I'm ready for it all to stop. I've had a couple of friends hit by the economy downfall and I'm thinking that's two friends too many...


9. I probably mention this at least once a month (if not more) in my blog, but I have THE BEST kids! I guess as a parent, you're supposed to think that about your own children. Every night when I put them to bed, they are so sweet. The girls will pull every precious little stunt to get out of going to bed. It starts with wanting to cuddle (this is the ONE thing that neither Mommy, nor Daddy can refuse) then it moves to needing to go potty, wanting a drink, chapped lips, boogers (gross!), "I forgot to kiss and hug you" (Trust me, they NEVER forget to kiss and hug anyone), "Our movie is over", "I can't hear the music" and so many more. And then there's the boy...I get to snuggle him to sleep and then gently place him in his crib. He just rolls over and scrunches up so sweetly. Makes me want to pick him back up and cuddle some more. Oh, how I love those kids!!


10. I am so ready for wood floors. I mentioned before that I love having people over. It's true, I do, I just wish I could make my carpet invisible or maybe just the obnoxious stains everywhere. It drives me nuts! Even a water spill can leave a stain. We've had the 'professional' carpet cleaners come out and clean it & we've tried the Oreck dry-cleaning system (LOVE my vacuum, by the way)- NO LUCK!! The ugly stains just find their way back to the surface. Some days, I'm tempted to pull up the carpet while Hot Rod is at work. Do you think he would notice?

10 things I'm thinking on the 10th

1. I need a trip. I'm thinking a nice cruise or a trip to a great beach location would be nice...

2. Okay, I want a Shamwow! I've never actually touched one, but if it really works, I could surely sop up some spills!!! Is that thing for real or a sham?

3. The weather here has been driving me crazy. One day I'm wearing shorts and a t-shirt and the next day, it's jeans and a jacket. Which is fine, except the runny noses the cold snaps bring with them.

4. Shopping and three kids doesn't always mix; however, dining out sure does! Maybe it's just my spoiled kids...maybe I'm just fooling myself because I like to eat out.

5. I never thought I'd reach this point, but I actually look forward to taking all three of my kids anywhere (yes, by myself) - just to get out of the house - and see other adults.

6. I will strike up a conversation with ANYONE, ANYWHERE. Extrovert or desperate for adult conversation? That's a good question.

7. Hats off to single moms. I don't know how you do it. When Hot Rod is out of town, I struggle! Somedays, I just don't want to get out of the bed. I can't imagine that being my way of life.

8. Confession time - I still have most of my Christmas decorations up. (shhhhhhh!)

9. People often ask me if I am done having kids. My honest answer...I don't know! Have you met my kids? They're awesome! Who wouldn't want more???

10. Unwrapped is NOT the best show to watch late at night when you have the possibility of waking up your sweet tooth. What's your favorite candy?

10 things I'm thinking on the 10th

1. I've been in a state of blahs lately. I haven't felt like doing anything. In fact, for a week now, I've had to force myself to do the smallest things. I don't know what it is, but I think it's fading. I've started to get my "oomph" back. I'm blaming it on the weather...and being sick.

2. Speaking of the weather, what is with this ridiculous Houston weather? I mean, I've lived here my entire life and I still cannot get used to it. I know what to expect. It happens every year. Besides, where do you think the following quote came from: "If you don't like the weather, wait 5 minutes, it'll change" Yep, Houston, Texas! It is hard to get into the Christmas spirit when the weather is 75 degrees. (That was yesterday...today's a whole nother story -- COLD!) YAY, break out the hot cocoa.

3. I love the Starbucks Peppermint Mocha that comes out this time of year! My hubby is such a sweet man, he figured out how to take a simple hot chocolate drink and make it minty. Being the awesome man that he is, he made it for me to help get me out of my "funk"...at least, that's what I'm telling myself.

4. With the birth of each child, we wondered how in the world we could possibly love another child so much. How in the world would there be enough love to go around? Now that the children are "one up" on us, we can't imagine life without any of them. It seems that you find room in your heart to love each one of them for who they are.

5. Maddie, at 5 (almost 6) years old is a second "mom" to her younger brother and sister. She is very helpful to Mommy and Daddy - especially when it comes to her siblings. She loves to care for Carter and entertain him. When it comes to Hailey, she couldn't have a more perfect playmate. All girls should have a sister. (I should know, I have 3!) She's doing well in Kindergarten and is proud of herself when she successfully reads her papers for school.

6. Hailey, now 3 years old is my cuddler. I have to soak it all in while Daddy is at work or traveling because she is a major Daddy's girl. (Drives me crazy! If it were up to me, they'd all snuggle up to me on the couch every night.) She can pick up on things quickly when she has the desire. Just a few days ago, she said, "I dropped my baby and I catched it." Daddy corrected her that is should be caught. The very next day, she was playing and said, "I catched--I caught it." So proud! You won't find better manners than this little one.

7. Carter, a whopping 8 months old...not that you'd know that to look at him. He's always looked older for his age. It's funny to hear people say, "He looks like a little man! He doesn't look like a baby anymore." (Truth be told, he never looked like a baby...okay, maybe when he first came home and for the first month) He's a strong little boy. He continually amazes me with his physical abilities. I keep waiting for him to just stand up and walk over to me, but he is still just crawling - and FAST! Unfortunately (for everyone else - not me), he is a Momma's boy. Drives most people crazy. If I am anywhere in the room, he wants to be held by me. I don't mind. I'm afraid one day, he won't want his crazy Mom around. So, for now, I'll just soak it up!

8. "As Seen on TV" - this just cracks me up! Who comes up with these crazy things that they sell on television. And don't even get me started on the bearded guy that pushes them all. He ALmost makes me believe in the amazing power of whatever product he is peddling. I can hear him now: Just look at the (grass, chocolate, red wine, you name it) stains lift right out of this bright white shirt - it looks just like new! OR This putty can hold a two-ton truck being towed. OR Just watch how it melts away hard water, lime, rust, and mildew from this old tub. IF ONLY...

9. Someone should write songs for Independence Day that make everyone feel the way that Christmas songs make you feel during the Christmas season. "Line the rockets in a row, fa, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la! Light a match and watch it glow, fa, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la!" and "City sidewalks, busy sidewalks, dressed in red, white and blue. In the air there are fireworks glowing" and let's not leave out "Sparklers, sparklers, hot dogs all the way. Picnics by the bright moonlight it's Independence Day!" (Don't blame me for the shotty lyrics...I'm a singer, not a song writer!)

10. It's been a while since we've gone to the movies...until recently. We took all three kids to see Madagascar 2 - SO GOOD!! Now, I am dying to go see movie after movie. I can't wait to drag Hot Rod out to see Four Christmases. I don't know about any of you, but it looks hilarious to me.

10 things I'm thinking on the 10th

1. I'm glad that Carter is starting to get more independent. He's finally playing on the floor more by himself so that I can do things without having to carry him everywhere. Although, I must have some really strong arms...and back for that matter!


2. I think it's funny how many people ask me if the girls are twins. Obviously, they're not. I mean there is a 3 year difference in their age. But if they are sitting down, I can kind of see why. Like in this picture:

3. Hailey is turning 3 in less than two weeks! I remember her birth like it was yesterday...it's hard to believe time can fly by so quickly.

4. I'm trying something new. I've got to get a handle on things around the house. It's so easy just to play with the kids or on the internet. So, I have a plan. One that will help me get organized. One that will help me clean. One that will (hopefully) keep the Hubs happy.

5. It's hard when you've got three kids and you don't want one to wake up the other two while they're sleeping at naptime. The best way to keep him from crying is to hold him while he sleeps. So, I just hold him. (Now, before any of you "Baby-Wiser's" start in on me in the comments section, keep in mind that I went from working outside of the home to staying home, homeschooling, and a new baby all in one swoop - I'm still getting used to this whole thing! Give a Mom a break)

6. Speaking of Moms...I really miss mine. I wish she was here. For so long I looked forward to the day when I could quit work. The day that I could visit with her all day long without worrying about a schedule. The day she could teach me to sew and to cook and bake and make candies. The day that finally came, but didn't. The day that came without her. That day is now, that day is here...but she's not. And there's this hole. This huge gaping hole. One that will never be filled. And in a way, I don't want it to be filled.

7. I think my luck might be turning around. Just the other day I managed to outrun my little dark cloud. Hot Rod met up with the kids and me at Chili's for dinner on Friday night. After dinner, he took the girls home and I took Carter to the grocery store. The Hubs called me while I was shopping to tell me that Maddie informed him once they got home that she had lost her shoe getting into the car to head home. And he wasn't going back for it - could I run by and see if I could find it? Of course, I had to! It was a shoe...I am a woman...you do the math. Anyway, here I am thinking "How in the world will I ever find a small pink Croc in a Chili's parking lot, on a Friday night, during the dinner rush?" I drive into the parking lot down the side where I knew he had parked looking for an empty spot to pull in so I could get out and look around. Lucky for me, there was an open spot and two other people getting into their cars to leave. Even luckier for me, I look over into said spot and there was that stinkin' shoe. I am NOT kidding. It was like God knew I needed it. That is the only way I can justify what happened.

8. Boys are born stinkers. Carter does things that Maddie and Hailey never did. He grabs and pulls hair, he grunts at people, he bangs on things (computers included) I could go on. Then, when I get annoyed with him and say (in that "Motherly way") "Car--ter," he gives me that little grin. As if he's saying, "I know Mommy, but I'm just too cute for you to be mad at me!" And he's right.

9. Funny...I love the sun. I love the way it shines in through the blinds during the day. I love how it makes everything outside look when it's out from behind the clouds. I love the warmth that it gives. I love that I never have to shovel its heat from my driveway so that I can go somewhere. But then, I also can't wait for the cool weather to come so I can wear those long sleeve t-shirts 'cause I think sometimes I love them more than the sun.

10. I also love the 10th of the month. I enjoy my randomness. Since I'm a SAHM, I don't get all my visiting done during the day, so it's kind of a nice way to 'talk.' It doesn't matter how long these 10th posts get because they're numbered. You can either read the whole thing word for word or you can skim the list and if something catches your eye, read it. I don't really care...as long as you leave me a comment when you're done. :)

10 things I'm thinking on the 10th

1. Staying home with my children is so much more rewarding than working. I worried how I might feel leaving work to stay home, but I am glad I did.

2. I do wish there was a way I could contribute monitarily to our family, but I know that I am contibuting in other areas. (And right now, I have no desire to jump into one of these "Really, it's not a pyramid" and "You can't beat working from your home and making your own hours," and then, "Trust me, you don't have to be a salesperson" only to learn that you have to beg your friends to host parties in their homes so that you can sell things to people and convince them to sign up to "not sell anything" as well. The next thing you know, people are avoiding you because they think you are going to hit them up to buy something or host a party in their home. Not that there's anything wrong with that...it's just not for me.)

3. Sometimes, I feel like I am working harder now than I ever did at any "paying" outside of the home job.

4. The 4 people I am working for can be quite demanding at times. Not so much the boys as the girls. I wonder what that means?

5. Often, I feel like I am lazy. I'm not really sure why...Must just be part of getting used to my "new" situation. Or it could be that I'm busy blog-hopping playing computer games watching TV holding the baby too much. (that's a whole 'nother post for a whole 'nother day!)

6. I love to watch Maddie learn. She's starting to read and she loves sounding out the words. She's learned that Daddy will pay her for words that she is able to read to him. I am so glad to not be missing out on these accomplishments.

7. I must admit, I was (and still am) a little nervous about Maddie's learning being all on my shoulders...but on the other hand, it is fun.

8. The girls are a lot like me - they enjoy "craft time" Anything involving paint, glue, scissors, etc...is more fun than watching TV, and almost as much fun as playing outside.

9. We don't have all of the beautiful fall colors here, but the weather has been fabulous outside lately. Now if we can just kick those pesky mosquitos. (Why must EVERYthing in Texas be bigger?)

10. I'm so looking forward to Halloween...I love when my kids get to dress up as someone/something else for a day. They're always so cute. I also enjoy seeing my friends' kids. It's fun that for just one day kids all across the country get to be whatever they want -- even if it is just make believe!

10 things I'm thinking on the 10th

1. So, tomorrow is my last day of work. How is it I can be excited and sad and nervous all at the same time? I've been there 10 years - a whole decade! I've seen a lot of changes, met a lot of people across the country, watched those people come and go. Now it's me that's going. I'm just gonna be "Mommy" How exciting is that? I'll miss all the friends I've made and maybe I'll miss the daily adult interactions outside of the home, but I'll no longer be missing my babies. Totally worth it!

2. I HATE MY DRYER. My clothes dryer that is. I shouldn't complain because it was free. We've actually been lucky enough (here's where I knock on some wood) we have yet to have to purchase one. Perhaps I say that to hope to have to, but then (I'll refer you to #1) I don't think it's in the budget. Let me explain...recently, something happened and either the machine won't stop running or the buzzer won't stop buzzing - depends on the cycle you use. So, before I remember to check on it, BUZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ!!! I'm getting tons of "exercise" leaping out of my skin, I mean, from the chair and racing into the utility room to stop the beast and it's incessant roar.

3. My little boy ain't so little. So, at just under 3 1/2 months he is 14 1/2 pounds! Such a change from my girls who were tiny. You know the boy is big when the doctor says, "Don't bother waking him up to feed him, he seems to be gaining just fine!" I'll just say - my Boy hasn't missed a meal yet.

4. Girls are whiny. At least mine are. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE my girls. I love them LOTS! And I must add, they are quite adorable. But, man can they complain. Anyone else have girls that can find something wrong with every piece of clothing down to their socks? A typical morning might go something like this:

me: Maddie, let's get your shirt on.
Maddie: But, I'm tired.
me: I know you are, but the quicker you get your shirt on, the quicker you can lay back down
Maddie: Awww...
(we get the shirt on and the conversation continues)
Maddie: I don't like this shirt, it's too short.
(I must interject here that the shirt goes past her waist)
me: It's fine Maddie.
Maddie: No, it's too short (as she attempts, unsuccessfully, to pull it down over her knees)
me: you'll be fine, let's get your socks on
Maddie: Okay, but I want the short ones
me: that's what I have
(once the socks are on...)
Maddie: Mommy, fix the bumpies, there are bumps on the sides of my toes.
me: Maddie, all socks have these, there is nothing I can do (and I really do try to fix them for her)
It goes on and on...her shoes have bark (from the playground) in them, I've put them on her too tight, it hurts her head when I brush the tangles in her hair - really, I think the only thing I've figured out is the shorts or uniform skirt.

5. There must be a reality show for everything. There are so many that some are actually very close duplicates. (American Idol, Nashville Star, America's Got Talent, etc) Some of them, I enjoy (Amazing Race, Biggest Loser, American Idol -yes, I'm a dork), some freak me out (The Baby Borrowers, The Bachelor, Big Brother - can't bring myself to watch these) Really, is that all we can have on TV for the summer - perhaps I should buy a book - or maybe I should just read The Good Book!

6. Dieting is hard! There are too many yummy things that are no-no's. Does anyone know of a diet that includes Cokes and chocolate?

7. I am one lucky gal. Not only do I have three precious children, but I also have a wonderful Husband. He's got to be one of the most supportive people I know. He doesn't expect me to do all the housework or take care of the kids by myself. He might cook dinner or even help me bathe the children. He's even been seen doing laundry from time to time. (Sheets and towels, of course!)

8. Going to the movies is expensive. We have been discussing taking the girls to see a movie - (we're thinking Kung Fu Panda, which was only rating PG for the Kung fu scenes) I love to go to the theater with the larger than life screen, but the cost sure adds up fast. It's so hard to GO to the movies, when I can OWN it for less than the cost of two adult admissions!! $8.50 per adult ticket, more than $5 per child ticket, and then we'll have to have snacks, popcorn $7?, drink $4?, candy $3? Almost sounds like a MasterCard commercial - all I need to add is "Spending quality time with the family: Priceless!"

9. Gas prices impact everything. (I hear you - "News Flash!!") I'm starting to worry that I'm going to see an awful lot of the inside of my house. That only means that our electric bill is going to go up. The more I'm at home, the more I turn on the air, the more I turn on the air...well, you get the picture. The cost of a gallon of milk is now less than a gallon of gas (never thought I'd see that day) Anyway, I'm watching our grocery bill increase and prices for everything else going up...inflation! It's like 20 years of the cost of living increase happening all in one summer. I don't know if this is a recession or not, but it sure does stink!

10. Sometimes, I only have 9 things to think about. This might just be one of those times! HA!

10 things I'm thinking on the 10th

In honor of the 10th of the month, I have composed a list of 10 things that are on my mind. No relation between them - perhaps mostly pet peeves that I needed to vent about, I'll start with a positive...

#1 Happy Hour Rocks
I'm addicted to Happy Hour. Not the "5 o'clock somewhere" Happy Hour at the local bar. Nope, it's the 2 pm to 4 pm Happy Hour at the local Sonic drive in! 96 cents for 44 glorious oz of Coca-Cola. And ooooh, the tiny little pebbles of ice! (Why am I not losing the baby weight?)

#2 Speaking of Sonic
They should fire their ad agency. Of course, so should Jack-in-the-Box, with the ridiculous large headed man. And why is Jack not in a box? Perhaps they should consult with Target on who they are currently using. Mesmerizing!

#3 Homeschooling is not what it used to be
Sorry, I always thought home schooled children were weird - I was wrong and I'm not ashamed to admit it. Not so sure I want to entrust my children to the public school system just yet.

#4 My kids have too many toys
Don't tell my husband, he'll be tossing half of the girls' stuff. They'd never forgive me. Instead, I'll just keep shifting it around. I have started the hide some and pull out others - It's almost like having new toys all over again.

#5 There are too many diets
I need to pick one (whatever I can do while nursing) and there are just too many to choose from. I've been reading a lot lately about diets and I just don't know which one to pick. What wonderful thing do I cut from my life: carbs, sugars, fats, soft drinks...?

#6 Soft Drinks
Why are they called soft drinks? What's soft about it? Some call them: Soda, Pop, Cola - well, whatever it is, I am sure it is rotting my insides...Why does it have to taste so good? I just need to drink more good ol' H2O.

#7 Exercise
Perhaps I'll start with exercise for weight loss. I know, those of you who know me are screaming at the screen, but it wouldn't hurt to improve my health. Especially the cardio - besides, there is no cure for Asthma and my breathing should improve as I walk, run, bike, etc.

#8 Asthma
Why isn't there a cure for Asthma? Why isn't there a special 'walk for the cure' for Asthma. I mean, Asthma can be life-threatening too. Oh well, at least I can walk for improved cardio.

#9 I/Me/Myself
What drives me bananas - probably more than any other grammatical snaff-o is the use of I, me and myself. Good rule of thumb, 'I' goes at the beginning and 'me' goes at the end. (that was almost hard to type it sounded so awful in my head) 'myself' - I just don't use this one unless to say "I'll do it myself" When there are other people listed in the sentence along with the word 'I' or 'me' I drop their name from the sentence and if it sounds bad, it's probably wrong! I work with professionals - these people have college degrees and yet, they insist on using the word 'I' all the while neglecting 'me' Poor me...poor pitiful me!

#10 Their/They're/There
Is the proper use of their, they're and there really THAT hard? I mean, let's go over this together: THEIR (pronoun - as in a possessive form of they) i.e. it is their house; THEY'RE (a contraction of the words 'they' and 'are') i.e. they're coming over later; THERE (okay, this one could be several things, pronoun, adjective, noun, adverb) i.e. there it is, OR I put it over there - perhaps this is where it gets more tricky. OR maybe it's all neither here nor there.