Archives
09
Feb
2007
update and gabe is a math genius
Posted by 3malesandalady under General
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On Monday, found out the toe wasn't broke even tho it was about 2x the size it should have been and purple. out of gym for the rest of the week.
On Tue. went to 2 specialists for Stephens annual checkups with those drs. and did some business and personal shopping. Found out Stephen grew another 2 inches (as always) and only gained a pound of weight (another as usual). Lung functions were lower than the normal limit (70%) but since stephen is stephen the way he acts and functions takes precedence over the numbers, and his functioning isn't bad until those numbers hit the low 50%'s so all is good and only follow-up needed is with the allergy/asthma dr.
On wed. I got the interview set up for next months article to be published about me and my biz (cool!) so now just cleaning, more work to get done at the last minute and figuring out to make me and my stuff look good for the photo.
On Thurs. I went in for my dexa scan (results in april), then took mom out to eat and did a bit of dollar store shopping before we left to go to the school musical. Kids were thrilled even tho they were really tired afterwards. Seems they started the musical about 1-2 hours later than they should have on a school nite to be offering student prices- it was well after 10 before we got out and since we were so busy and the doors opened so early we didn't eat beforehand. McD's in the car on the way home struggling to keep the kids awake while they chewed. BUT all in all, BIG EYES, songs and amazement. They loved it! and there is a lot of talent in that school!
Today Bethie was suppose to go to school so I could work uninterrupted for almost 5 hours.... well that didn't happen as her school was canceled as the teacher had the flu. Good that she wasn't teaching, bad for those last minute things that I wanted to get accomplished before the interview. Was jazzed this am, and I am a morning person. Every time I went down this morning I seemed to have a little helper that needed my help upstairs. finally gave up till evening then I was too out of the mood... tomorow morning may be better, I hope (altho its the weekend and that seems to be an issue with me as I kinda like to spend time with my family too).
Bethie is loosing her voice (maybe a head cold). so should be an interesting week ahead... Bought some write on/wipe off flash cards for multiplication and division (Stephen) addition/subtraction (Gabe) and printing the alphabet (Bethie). Funny stephen was working on his alphabet tonight but Missy and I found out that Gabe can do 2 digit addition ie 17+6 and subtraction with only 1 digit each. Amazed as kindergarten just starting addition (been working on number recognition and counting) and the bottom of todays paper had for the "advanced problem" 4+3=7 with hearts above them so you could count all 7 of them- hes doing it without the images!
05
Feb
2007
Hey, for once my kids listen and toes get broke (most likely anyways)
Posted by 3malesandalady under General
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phew, busy weekend
on Fri. we went to the superstore and got groceries and Jeans for Bethie (who will not wear the perfectly fine hand-me-downs because they are "boys" and not girls jeans- 4yo! ugh!) so now with spangles and florals we are set for cold winter days over the t-shirt weight mini-skirts I have been battling for her not to wear. and the cupboards are restocked (except for the few things I forgot- need to make lists, and I didn't)
On Sat. we went to a family birthday party and then out to eat (thanks missy for the gift cert. and the night out!) came home overstuffed from awesome food (of course beyond even the fact that it was exceptionally great tasting food- what put it over the top was the fact that everything we ate Stephen was allergic to- boy who woulda thought baked potatoes and broccoli would be so yummy!)
Then today while I was napping the kids were in the basement (daddy was up- their toys are down there) and for some unknown reason a scoop shovel, like the kind used on farms for grain, was down there. Stephen has been "cleaning" the floor with it by scooping toys and dumping them into the toy barrels. Anyway, bethie got a hold of it and stephen told her to give it to him. That she did, right into his big toe. some blood, but basically I am worried more about it being broke with school and gym tomorrow. Without putting this thought in his mind he has already expressed fear of putting on shoes for school in the morning. Arg, I know from the many toes that I have broke that nothing can be done for it but taping (already done) but the thought is that the school is going to need documentation for gym so on top of a busy day, we may be running for x-rays.
Why for once did Bethie actually listen????
New phone, biz update, kid squabbles
Posted by 3malesandalady under General
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I hated taking my laptop to work on while I was waiting for bethie to get done with school. Today I had a blast surfing the web to find the ROI calculation I needed for marketing while sitting and drinking my coffee.
My New Phone
Funny tho, I always thought the laptop made me seem to pretentious while sitting there, and now that I have used this for the past week, it seems to garner more attention than the laptop did! it is so cool tho, does the same as my axim x51v did but also dials up to the web (no more searching out wifi hotspots) and makes texting a breeze with the keyboard... the only downfalls- its a candybar (ugh!) and it is so quiet it is hard to hear it ring. Nothing like the Razr I got for the biz- that one rings loud enough to wake me in the am! I think I sold one (the ppc 6700) for alltel today as another gentleman was quite interested in it while I was sitting there.
Had a good business day today. Did all the layouts for the printers. Have to go get more supplies this weekend so I will be back in the studio full force starting next week (almost got all the stuff entered in the pc for last years taxes I think!). jumping through the hoops to get listed in google local (waiting for the postcard to arrive) and Yahoo local (trying now for the past 4 days with them saying this and that is wrong with my submission- ya right- I went off of someone elses catagories that is similar to mine...., whatever!) so time will tell, and hopefully by this weekend there will be more web presence.
Battled kids all morning. Gabe learned that sitting for 15 minutes trying to decide what cereal he wanted was not a good idea (he actually was crying "i'm hungry" so much he was loosing his breath) then I dressed him while sobbing, then gave him some quick finger food to eat while waiting for the bus and he was spending more time trying to get the bowl back out for cereal and sobbing that he didn't eat (while saying he didn't like that, he wanted cereal).... was definitely a calgon morning. Then at noon I take bethie to school where she starts with "I am going to be the first one there" where I counter "I highly doubt that- your 5 minutes late already" which finally ended with the bet that when we get in if there are kids there I am right, if no one is there she is right... but that battle was almost as bad as Gabes morning one. Then stephen has just been off lately- but no all out argueing until you hit your head several times in the wall until you bleed from all the insanity- just enough that you think it every once in a while....
I suppose, I had better do something here.... all this talk about the spats this morning tired me out- thinking I will be in bed in 30 minutes.
29
Jan
2007
Posted by 3malesandalady under General
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Its one of those kinda mondays,,, You know, the kind where you just want to sit here and drink coffee, or go back to bed as waking the kids for school and work seem too stressful (and not enjoyable) for you to muster up the strength to do.
anyways, HI STEPH! I see you have been leaving comments on here (awhile back) and we thought you would stop in over christmas. Wondering how you are doing (just ask tracy, as we have been bugging her for updates on you!). Hope college is treating you well. Yes, bethies hair has grown a TON! I keep looking at it and going Geesh, wish mine would grow like that! Bought her a really cool headband at Claires, so retro and never out of her hands. Everyone misses you. Stop in sometime.
BTW, Tracy if you are reading this- Your little sis's mind can be put to ease, I have a baggie here for her of polly pocket dolls and hangers.
Went shopping over the weekend. Didn't buy much but took all day looking at things. Got home and my legs were sore (and I don't sit all day). Kiddos slept well that night. Got new work supplies coming (which is good as I needed more materials). Hubby went to IA yesterday to pick up some stuff and had a flat- on the coldest day so far. Glad in a way that it happened while he had no kids along (and that it happened to him not me)... but now I have to fix a tire- UGH!
Well, time flew by, kiddo's waking hour.
26
Jan
2007
disappointed kiddos...
Posted by 3malesandalady under General
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kids are disappointed tonight. they got ice skates a week or two ago and they have been hounding us to go. well the best laid plans always go afoul and since it was such a nice day the ice was all slush. well out for hot chocolate I guess to apease the masses
18
Jan
2007
trying something new....
Posted by 3malesandalady under off the cuff
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09
Jan
2007
wierd day
Posted by 3malesandalady under General
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having one of those odd days... somehow the laundry piled up and slowly the mounds are decreasing... lost a pair of spidey boots (either here at the house- as he states- or at school- as I state). But one bright humorous spot stood out today: I emailed the phone company with a question because they suspended us... and they email back "call us"... Huh?
didn't do much today, looked for boots, did laundry, did dishes... worried that my hubby ran out of gas. long story but I had enough for what I had to do this week, he drives "non-fuel economy" wise on his way to work and it was iffy if he made it- why was he in my jeep... his jeep had a "i don't want to start morning" and when I tried there was absolutely nothing going either. He comes home and it turns over like a dream... evidentially it did not want to go to work this morning either!
Woke to a bus honking in the driveway. came flying down stairs this morning... almost broke my neck from the mess all over the kitchen. Seems Stephen was up this morning cooking everything he desired and knew he could not eat. Bus waited 5 minutes for the boys and off they went (tonight I did get the promise that he will wake me--- like I believe that)Morning breakfast from what I can tell was hot chocolate, tea, strawberry jello (unknown years old) made in a small plastic glass filled 1/2 full and placed in the fridge to set up (he states "well I didn't know how to make it!") all the cereals were down from the top of the fridge, but I am sure he was looking for more of the last stash of chocolate he found there and ate it all. Chex mix type stuff was also ate... as well as at least 110 different browser windows open all with pc games on them and a full soda pop next to the pc. Busy morning!
Why did I oversleep- I finally got a handle on what I needed to do for taxes for the biz, I was up until the wee hours of the morning and I knew when I went to bed that it was going to be hard to get up. unfortunately I musta hit the alarms off instead of snooze, cuz I don't remember it. Tomorrow tho they both want to take showers before school- so if they remember, and if I don't do bookwork tonight all will be grand in the morning.
BTW- hubby was late coming home from work (1.5 hrs.!) because he stopped to talk to his mom...
03
Jan
2007
Back to School (and work!) FINALLY!!!!
Posted by 3malesandalady under General
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up early this morning, as we have to find all the stuff needed for school- the hats, mittens, coats, snowpants and boots aren't the problem- its the school bags, the school work, etc. as well as the tennis shoes (who woulda thunk?- boots, church shoes and nothing have been the norm here as of late!)
But finally I get some "me" time with only 1 child and tons of work to do! of course that 1 as to go to school today too, so it will only be a half day, meaning I probably will just get to cleaning out the studio and preping for a day of work tomorrow (and then she has school again tomorrow too....) well, if it isn't one thing its another- BUT still great to be back on the normal routine.
Stephen finished his invention last night. Turned out to be stellar! hope he gets an "A" on it! He keeps giving credit to us, not himself, because we "helped" him on it- but it was his idea, his efforts... the only thing we did was run the utility knife (so he still had a finger when he finished) and I did help him run M$word as creating his graphics was new to him (he still typed the words, I just helped open the wordart and align the text boxes). Thought-o-matic Description of the invention and features: The thought-o-matic, helps you think of what to write in your blog when you don't have a clue... made from sturdy cardboard, features an adding machine roll of paper suspended by a pencil for aesthetics, and features a false bottom interior to hide all the "workings". To use, during the day when you get a great idea or have a burning question you want answered jot it down on the handy dandy paper. tear it off (with the supplied cutter) and toss it in the box. When it comes time to write in your blog (most likely because your mom is making you before you play games online!) reach in the box and take out a slip of paper. Answer the question if you can- or google it, learn about it, and write your findings in your blog. Cool idea isn't it!!
Anyway, the Kids will be happy to resume that normal schedule, as will I. Got lots of work to do, so its a good thing that they are giving me some freedom again! I have been missing the studio enough that I even had dreams of being down there over the vacation... so if that is any indication of anything, Lots of new stuff maybe forthcoming- and the preholiday creative block hopefully has lifted (time will tell)... so I better get stuff going and get these kids on the bus so I can WORK again!
01
Jan
2007
Christmas is done for the year
Posted by 3malesandalady under General
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Christmas has finally closed just as 2006 has come to an end.
Kids are worn out. so I think it is a great thing that this christmas season is at an end. Kids made out fairly well. the best bonus for them was between grandmas and grandpas they got boots, snowpants, coats and hats and mittens... so many hours of outside enjoyment, not to mention not freezing to death during recess!
Bethie had the christmas of her life! this was her year to be all excited and she finally got the point of "its Jesus Birthday" and "its baby Jesus, Bethlehem was the town!" all important.. but also in the 4 year old mind santa got mixed in... but not as much as the boys did in the past. As far as that goes, I have been preaching christmas spirit and going and giving for others rather than getting. Some of it sunk in, as for awhile I thought it was thanksgiving not christmas! kept hearing things like "I am thankful we have a house/bed/etc". Not discouraging thanks and praise in any form! and it is true, we could be out under a bridge with no heat, no clothes, no food.... living in shelters if there is room.... there are persons out there this year doing just that. Made the "really cool toy" seem less important, and to me that is what is really important about this time of year.
Well, 2006 is done, on to a bigger and better 2007. Trying to figure out how to do taxes, learning tons on marketing (and getting some good ideas, i think!). Past year has been a learning experiance, and I am sure next year will be too... but for a resolution, I think making next year a year that I learn alot, laugh alot, enjoy living to the fullest and find the pearls cast before me... ya thats what I am going to do!
Archives
29
Dec
2006
Flu free- NOW
Posted by 3malesandalady under General
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I hate winter break! Kids are needing attention every 5 seconds, quibbles over "I had such and such" and "but it was MY Christmas present!"
Too much food to tempt Stephen... ya he snitched a bit adding to the behaviors.
But all in all, kids are thrilled with their toys and this too shall pass and they will SOMEDAY go back to school and I will wish they were here again. I am already hearing "when is school again?" and "am I done with school now?" of course that last one is Bethie....
Stephen has an interesting homework assignment during this break- he has to proto an invention, then when he returns he will start marketing it. His invention- the "think-o-matic" for those that have a problem of thinking of something to write in a blog.... wonder where he got that idea? I just asked him to think of a problem. This was issue #2 with him. the first one should not be tackled in a classroom environment with peers, so #2 it is! I had an idea how to implement the whole thing, but we sat down and brainstormed and he came up with something better than I had thought- and requires more thought and input on his part while still being affordable AND (this is a biggie) doesn't involve robots, digital displays, usb cords and automatic keyboards doing his writing for him!
We still have 2 Christmas events to do, and this weekend it appears everyone is healthy now. Last weekend we all took turns with the flu (NOT FUN!) thank goodness it was the 12 hr. flu and not the 4 day flu that seems to be going around in the larger town to the west!
With all the vomiting I didn't gain a pound (nor did I eat that much!) so... a good holiday season I guess! I also didn't sleep that much with everyone needing me, but daytime naps helped me catch up on some much needed sleep
Haven't been in the studio this week. Been working on marketing as much as I can (read between the kids squabbles!) I did get the kids clothes finally straightened out- summer is now out of their room as well as the size 24 months that have been out, then in, then out, then in.... depending on what Bethie decides to wear or dig in. Seems that every time in the past something seemed to come up and then they got rowdy and threw things all over again. they seem to like it now- for this week... and thats all I give it- a week then it will be back to the pig sty again (wanta wager- I need the $ and its a sure bet!)
Have a busy day on tap for tomorrow, if I get time I may decide to do some of the "other things" that have eluded me... like the basement toy area. but between bill paying, invention making, thank you writing (for me and the kiddos).... that will be enough pulling teeth I think!
26
Dec
2006
Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus.
Posted by 3malesandalady under General
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Eight-year-old Virginia O'Hanlon wrote a letter to the editor of New York's Sun, and the quick response was printed as an unsigned editorial Sept. 21, 1897. The work of veteran newsman Francis Pharcellus Church has since become history's most reprinted newspaper editorial, appearing in part or whole in dozens of languages in books, movies, and other editorials, and on posters and stamps.
"DEAR EDITOR: I am 8 years old.
"Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus.
"Papa says, 'If you see it in THE SUN it's so.'
"Please tell me the truth; is there a Santa Claus?
"VIRGINIA O'HANLON.
"115 WEST NINETY-FIFTH STREET."
VIRGINIA, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except [what] they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men's or children's, are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.
Yes, VIRGINIA, there is a Santa Claus. He exists certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! How dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus! It would be as dreary as if there were no VIRGINIAS. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.
Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that's no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.
You tear apart the baby's rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest man that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, VIRGINIA, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding. No Santa Claus! Thank GOD! He lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.
19
Dec
2006
GOOD DAY TODAY!
Posted by 3malesandalady under General
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I had a Great day today. I stuck with marketing 101 (my own version) and am happy with the results. I had tons of fun giving away presents (my stuff) with my business card and most are to be displayed pretty predominately (with the exception of 1 which I have no clue as it wasn't opened before I left). Lots of office personal "ohh and ahhing" over the gifts. so hopefully some web hits and some revenue will come. If not I found out today that most likely it will be the march issue of the magazine I eluded to the other day that will be my business featured. COOL!
I also went to Stephens school to build gingerbread houses. that was a blast. and he got tons of peer positive reviews on his work (even tho I thought it was more pell-mell than his classmates work).
more later....
update 1-2-07- just learned that one is also being displayed predominately in the business! yahoo!
17
Dec
2006
Posted by 3malesandalady under General
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First, Kids updated their blogs with an entry...
now on to me. I hit a creative roadblock. I did it last year at this time too. The good news is that when it was over last year better stuff came from it. Just this year is not the best timing. I have a custom order that I need to get shipped and nothing that I am doing for it is worth saving, it is a small object. Simply put the problem is like my hands are trying to learn something different with my mind. The two just are not connecting at this point. I guess i will just have to roll with the punches and see where it leads me. I did do something that was 2 gal. capacity in size today before it "wrecked" as the smaller sizes were not going so hot at all. I must be at a new plateau that I just need to cross.
Of course it doesn't help that I am putting a lot of pressure on myself either... I have several marketing ideas that are low/no cost that I need to implement asap. One of those needs several small items to pass out to business persons, so....
OK, enough whining. On with the kids- Tracy is back. Kids were thrilled. she brought all of her goodie bags and helped decorate the house for Christmas (rather she and the kids cleaned the space and decorated the living room while I was working- how cool is that!) So now it is definitely a deck the halls feel to the house! Kids are thrilled as the tree is now up. They spent the whole day coloring photocopies of Christmas coloring book pages that Kay gave beth and then cutting them out to put on the tree (no ornaments on our tree- learned from past years that the tree is the magnet for all little fingers)
I fell asleep on the couch and now just waking up (for some reason) so I am writing... I am hearing everyone (including hubby) talk in their sleep tonight! Must of been a day for them!
Sitting here listening to the first Terminator movie. Always have problems with this movie. OK... here are some of them: 1) John of the future sends back his best friend (who is his dad) to save his mom. 2) the movie eludes to the fact that John knows his friend is his dad. OK now, first of all, just that is bizarre enough but, If the first terminator was never sent to kill Sara, then Johns best friend would have never been sent back to protect her and john would have never been born... Seems like a silly thing to do if you were in the terminators shoes. He should have just stayed home (40 years in the future) and then the kid he wants to prevent woulda never happened...thats my issue I guess, but it seems somewhat silly to base a movie on if you really think about it! (OK I am deep tonight)
12
Dec
2006
a night out
Posted by 3malesandalady under General
Mom and my Brother took me out for my birthday tonight. We went to the local truckstop. They have good Cappuccino, and a bad waitress. The first thing hubby stated (under his breath of course) was "Oh Great." well, as par her usual, she forgot to get everything. Said everything snippy, did her best to do nothing.... Hey I am one to usually tip waitresses, but after the first tip did not improve her mood, never again. Maybe next time I should give her a tip- something like "hey put a little spring in your step, a smile on your face, act like you actually want to be here and serve me" type tip.... o.k. I admit that was mean, but last time she served us 2 waitresses (her and another one) were fighting over who had what tables... I mean full out temper-tantrum fighting... and in front of us- the customer.
Anyway, Mom asked for a candle, she didn't think they did that. BUT I did get my pie for free when she "remembered" it was my birthday ("remembered" by overhearing me say next time lets go to _____ there they sing and give you a free desert!) Anyway, Mom knows me... I am a cheap gift to buy... CHOCOLATE- the good stuff not the cheap kind.
Gabe says I know whats in the present, CHOCOLATE where I contradicted "no its not, its Cadburys" good thing he has no clue, or else I would have to share my fruit and nut with him!
Good evening talking deep with mom (current events, religion etc) while the guys in their own little booth got the kids (how cool is that!). Possibly found a way to market my stuff that if it turns out would be way cool... so, so far this day has been a good day- and oh, the studio was good to me today too... if it doesn't blow up, moms gift is made and another for someone else. Thanks mom for the night out!
so many "cool" expressions lately, think it is my 9 year old rubbing off on me. Last year it was "sweet" the term dejour lately has been cool or not nice words so Cool is what I guess I chose to incorporate into my linguistics....
(BTW, Googling now for what O.K. stands for.... never thought about it, but the latest update for this software has a working spell check and ok is not good for it, either is google or googling... silly pc tech stuff should have something for a tech term.... PSS pc is wrong, but tech without a period is correct- isn't that short for technology????)
footnote: ok by webster doesn't have the periods in it. so spell check is goofy.... anywho, Etymology: abbreviation of oll korrect, facetious alteration of all correct. so there you have it! and as an aside, this link will take you to some fascinating reading about how OK came into usage.
12
Dec
2006
another year older
Posted by 3malesandalady under General
Well, here I am, I made it another year (and have the GREY hairs to prove it!)
Missy took kids requests and yesterday came back with Flowers (pink and purple per bethie), Chocolate (I knew I treasured Gabriel for a reason!) and Stephen with my Birthday Balloon with "another birthday, another reason to eat cake!" on it (balloons are a tradition in the house).
So now I am reminded to look at all the beauty around me (especially the purple and pink things!)
to savor each moment of life and delight in even the smallest tastiest morsels
and when life gets me down, float above it and do it with levity.
I got the coolest kids in the world (and the coolest Missy- Thank you Missy!)
10
Dec
2006
Bethies funny...
Posted by 3malesandalady under General
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Today after church we saw the Creche. Baby Jesus was missing and a long dialog of why is he gone, when do you think he will be here, when is his birthday? ensued. Pointed out the wise men, the gold, frankincense and myrrh, and the Shepard as well as Mary and Joseph. Long discussion.
Well we get home and bethie starts snipping papers. She says "Look mom, I made Mommy Jesus, Daddy Jesus And Baby Jesus!" I think something got lost along the way.....
09
Dec
2006
Kid funny of the day
Posted by 3malesandalady under General
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Missy picked up the kid's mess tonight. Hubby asks Stephen "what do you say?" where stephen replies "thank you" . Hubby asks "thank you for what?" Stephen says "I don't know." (he was playing a game on the computer at the time and only halfway listening) Hubby asks "well, what do you have to be thankful for?" Where without skipping a beat Stephen replies "Jesus!"
Funny, but very True! That was the best gift we were given this Christmas season (and year round!)...
05
Dec
2006
oops, forgot the blooper!
Posted by 3malesandalady under Art
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Sitting in the booth I had placed hard candy in the small candy dishes and one on the checkout table...
Did it mainly because I wanted parents to come in with their kids (too many "oh thats B R E A K A B L E" comments on the first show (but the buyers are of the generation of my age to a little older... so some do have kids!). Anyway, caught a few adults acting like they were stealing candy from my candy dish (thats why it was there! But, ok...) Caught a kid sneeking candy into her pocket and scared the beejeebers out of her (she was trying to steal- at 4 years of age! but I did it OK as to not make mom nervous or discourage a sale) and then I offered a young boy (Kindergarten age) a piece of candy. He said a very emphatic "NO!" to which hubby pointed out that the kid did right.... we teach our kids to never take candy from strangers and here I was a total stranger offering candy... what a mom I am!
05
Dec
2006
Everyones been asking...
Posted by 3malesandalady under Art
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First I should say that I need to go to bed so this will be quick...
How did the sales go- well, I expected the local show to be small, the estimated attendance was 1000 and by the veterans, the sale had about that many persons, sales were down from last year but not terribly much.
the second sale was going to blow the doors off the first I thought- well... thought is just what it was. Attendance down (or definitely NOT what was advertised- 3000) others said they thought it was 1100 at most. They raked the customers for money before they even got to us- fee to enter, concessions to help the sports team, picture with Santa... Spent the whole day hearing other vendors saying "never again" and "geez, I just made my booth fee back, now working on gas!" well, we actually did both with a little profit again. mind you not what I thought it would be AND we generated less total revenue than my parents did with a good garage sale 20 yrs ago... SO, I am with the "never again" bunch for that show. I will keep the local show as it is good marketing and exposure (even if I sweat and toil all day to not even cover my materials!) BUT the first one had web hits following the show for 5 days the second one had tons of biz cards taken but not one hit on the site.
So, I did get to meet another artist in the same genre, a well known artist that has been in it for several years and I asked him how do you do it (actually the conversation started with "come take a look, tell me whats wrong- is it the booth, the prices, the product?- all of which he assured me was the venue NOT ME! cool!) Anywho, the way he said I needed to do it is spend 5x the amount i did on the booth space and get into a larger show that is juried. So... never guess what I am doing this summer (and making huge pieces that command a higher price tag to raise my average sales price up)
I am also going to be interviewed for a rural magazine (They inquired and I said yes, if your local and rural, your house has gotten it , you know it, not mentioning the name here tho) and I am thinking about sending press releases to the biggest town to the west, t-shirts (for when I have to sit and wait for Bethies school to let out at the local 24 hr. coffee house- and of course these would be my sales shirts too) and signs for the jeep to be a rolling billboard. Going to have to ask 2 businesses in the 2 local larger towns if they would carry my work in their stores and also thinking about doing a sale here at the farm with a mass publicity stint that may make the papers or somesuch in the spring.... tons of things to think about. Anyways competing with imported rugs, beaded jewelery and barbie dresses is NOT the place for me.
Lots of things to think about, lots of nice complements from persons (who did not buy). found out lowering the price did NOTHING to change sales and will not do that again- its a good thing none of the lower price stuff sold so no one feels like they got taken. (Ya I was to the point of trying anything just to get stuff moving!). I did have a lot of lookie lous... so maybe there is some hope for web sales after Christmas. Who Knows!
Funny thing tho- went with the same stuff to both shows (minus what already sold) and both shows generated exactly the same amount of revenue to the dollar! thats odd! anyways, the second show I did better at as the kids stayed with Nana and didn't go to the movies (less expense). Either way, we are done breaking our backs to not even get the materials price covered (or wages, or overhead, etc). So on to Marketing 101!
01
Dec
2006
Kids Dec. events/ show thoughts
Posted by 3malesandalady under General
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Another show tomorrow... means we will be leaving very early in the morning to drop off kids, set up and be ready to sell by 9am. I am going to try new things with the set up this time and more succinct marketing efforts... it seems in hindsight that I am too wordy in my printed materials (go figure!). trying to push all the stuff that I thought would sell and is not (lots of inventory in these areas!). so wish me luck!
The boys have no school today, but bethie has the bus coming for her. this is a real bummer as I usually get a free 5 hours to do uninterrupted work on these type days... now I get to watch kids (the ones that will set the house ablaze if left alone for 5 minutes) so planning on doing some housework before Missy comes and its time to do the last minute shopping spree for booth items needed (fruit for baskets, candles for plates, utensils for spoon caddys). Today I also have to dig out an old smaller table to see if I can use that for a checkout area. We went without one last week (used a chair) but there was no where for the customer to write checks or set large purses down to pay. So hopefully this will help that and hide the money a bit more (if it is sturdy and I can raise the height somewhat).
I got stuff drying from this past week, so the biz website will be updated sometime next week with some new offerings (once I get the photo booth reset up, I dismantled it to use the pvc for hand building as of late) and hopefully I can get enough money from this sale to help the family budget as well as get more supplies that are needed to make more items for spring shows. I am pinning my hopes on the fact that one high end person placed an ad in the paper so people know to bring their wallets....
Looking at next month, the month is already so packed full of appointments and rehearsals and programs that I think I will need 3 of me to get it all done. Not going to be much of work days, as everything is booked! It was so much easier before the kids were in school, now we have music concerts, Sunday school programs and lots of practices, school programs- 7 days just in programs for 3 kids!!! Once the 25th is over I will feel like there is nothing to do...
Gabes school program he has a large speaking part, cool, as he is usually my bashful one. Always being the good kid he has his lines memorized for next Tuesday already and is excited that he gets a costume! (he is elf #1). Sunday school for the little ones hasn't given out parts yet so that needs to be memorized sometime after this Sunday I expect...
Stephen has his first orchestra concert on Wed. the 13th (thats what I am doing for my birthday). I am excited to hear his first violin concert (not high hopes on sounding good- but thrilling to him as he just started in Sept.) He just got his Sunday school lines last Sunday and he really has a gem of a teacher for church school. She is just fab. with him!
Bethie has 2 programs between the 2 schools. The one on the 18th was just a blast last year when Gabe went there, so looking forward to seeing what is done this year since one teacher retired and a new one was hired. Little ones Sunday School program is on Christmas Eve (with a practice after the earlier service) so that Sunday it looks like I will be spending the day in church (which is usually not an issue, but we have my family celebration here that day also with food and cleaning i'm sure needed)
If you are interested in attending any of the above (since I am not web-specific on time, location) let me know and I will forward the info to you (if I know you that is- child predators need not inquire).
Better go an try to get some work done before the bus comes and the boys wake... update sometime early next week on how the show went/Bloopers etc.
Free virus, trojan, etc. scanner that WORKS!
Posted by 3malesandalady under off the cuff
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http://safety.live.com/site/en-us/scanner/default_scan.htmI
Caravats: cannot use firefox or firefox with the ie tab extention... sorry folks this is one MS site that actually is so silly to need IE to run. BUT, my antivirus flagged and could do nothing about 8 issues (not that serious) that this program could remove PLUS it found 380 registry entries not being used and deleted them for me. defrags and compresses and all the bells and whistles!
I should also add that I do run an anti-virus, windows defender, have xp firewall, do reg. maintainence on here such as defrag, add/remove all the kids downloaded stuff (which is prob. where the issues came from!), use the alternate browser, etc. so its not like I am clueless and blindly searching without protection....
27
Nov
2006
First show done... another to go
Posted by 3malesandalady under Art
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Well the first show is done. If you know the business website I posted pictures from that show on that site. And my 2 worst fears didn't happen. 1) that I would go and no one would like anything and I would be out the entry money and 2) that I would go and sell out with another show next weekend with no inventory for. Somewhere in the middle is where the reality was. I did make a profit after deducting expenses (thats good!) and the veterans at the show said turn out was less than usual- so next year could be better. Another thing I learned was what I thought would sell, and what initial informal marketing said would sell was NOT what sold. We are working on a better booth design than what I had to see if that helps and some "marketing" tricks to help push sales of things that didn't even sell one of. The best thing tho is that I way surpassed hubbys assumption that I would only sell 2 things!
We learned that some people had set-ups that would knock your socks off- toy hauler trucks that had beds and all the amenities, cash registers and price guns. All these people were key in helping us set up, giving us tips for future shows and where to go and avoid, and definitely entertaining to watch and listen to (one guy we heard lie to everyone- he almost sold out, but ethics will keep me from emulating him!)
It was a lot of work to set up and tear down in 2 hours (think of all the bubble wrap needed!) but from a marketing aspect it was awesome as I had many business cards taken, an inquiry for wholesale sales, and several online interests (great your online!) that will either lead to a sale now or maybe later... who knows!
Kids had fun, they got to go to the movies (which have really gone up in price in the past decade!). Sounds like "happy feet" is a good movie to watch from all their feedback. They were also treated to eating out all day, which today after church the first comment was "can we go out to eat" LOL had to explain to them that only during a show do they get to eat out (when mom isn't around to cook!). I did spur stephen into learning more about making change and money as he is having a hard time with it. I told him about the lady showing next to us who came with one of her kids (a little older, not much) that covered for her when she had to eat or use the restroom. He thought that was cool, and he would do it all UNTIL he learned that he would have to make sales and change... then the "you can do that" came about. Told him he could not do it at all unless he learned. Then we spent the next hour making change from the sales slips and the cash drawer. COOL!
Gabe, green with jealousy asked me to teach him about the money too (And I would but he doesn't even know what a dime is yet... it will come in kindergarten tho!). I can see him helping me in the booth once he has the skills and based on his items selling I think he should... man did he sell his things!
Bethie was disappointed and I was confused why everyone was walking to the back of the booth but the sales numbers were not there for that to be a hotspot. Bethie did not sell any of her cookies. Well. this morning hubby informs me that some booths had holiday cookies out for the fair goers. Laughing now, thinking of all those people flocking to the back of the booth for these (I bet relatively huge) Christmas cookies that were frosted only to find out that they are rock hard and glazed.... really that is a hoot! Thinking of trying to find some small animal cracker sized cookies that are frosted, for next week BUT they have to be in a big bag and very affordable as next week is suppose to have 3,000 in attendence. I know that is not going to be these big lush cookies that people thought I had (superstore wants $2.50 a dozen for those- and thats a lot of frosting for 3,000 hungry mouths!).
Bethie loves school. wants to go everyday. Gabe is getting really tired I think in school, as when he is home and getting tired we are seeing a really hyper child. Stephen is trying so hard to be a big "4th grader" but usually ends up having some bad judgment times. This year tho, I think he has really matured. usually in hindsight he says the right thing. AND somewhere along the line he lost his sense of humor. Maybe it is because he is getting older, I dunno, but usually when mom acts like a total nut he laughs, joins in, smiles, something... now I just get the look and usually a "get outta here" as he strolls off.... who knows!
Well Better go check the kiln. Got another load of Gabes stuff in their and he is eager to sell out next weekend...
Archives
21
Oct
2006
Closed doors, looking for windows
Posted by 3malesandalady under General
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Been busy in the studio. Been actually working my bottom off trying to get ready for a show (which I hope I can get in- long story but calling and getting no return calls from the messages I left- at first I thought "well maybe I talked to fast" or "maybe the cell cut out" or whatever like thoughts of "they're sick or in the hospital" or "on vacation" or something- quickly changing that to "maybe they don't want me" but that cannot be it, as they don't know me or what I do...)
Also left a message over 3 weeks ago, followed up with an email to a federal agency- again no response.
Questioning if God has a greater plan than a show for me :) keep thinking closed door has an open window. need that window soon if I am going to make anything of the money machine called Christmas...
Anyway, sitting here with 3 main items. Gathering marketing research from strangers on "if you were to buy something from me it would be..." and gathering responses and they seem to be an equil split. so guess the main push will be in all 3 areas and not more of one. enough of the business delimmas for now, maybe soon someone will call, some window will open and some direction will be given :)
on to the kids, Bethie is getting stubborn, throwing tempertantrums if she doesn't get her way- getting old quick. good independence skills, but boy is it tireing! So far schools are reporting doing well, which is good as this is her first year "independently" going without her brother along. Still "chatty cathy" and still wanting to be a ballerina princess (changing clothes is her latest passion- every 3 minutes or so!)
Gabe is getting along with school better. Heard him correcting someone when they said "when you grow up you can be an artist" to "I am an artist" and Boy does the kiddo have talent!
Stephen is Stephen. Still has some issues (like practicing his violin or doing homework) but school reports that his reading and math have really taken off- he is reading a CHAPTER BOOK currently and doing pretty darn good at it. I hear him word attacking several words and is getting alot of enjoyment from it. thats cool! Socially I think he is fitting in better this year
Halloween is just a few moments away, haven't done a single costume yet- nor have thought of the concept this year yet. a wrench has been thrown in when Gabe has to dress as a literary characture from a book for school (I did have the kids agreeing on M&M's, different colors, which would have been easy smeesy for me. Now we have to come up with a different idea and I have to find the time and the gumption to do it (LOL)
10
Oct
2006
started as update, ends with gabe botching his eye
Posted by 3malesandalady under General
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Boy, Time sure does fly. I didn't realize it had been so long since I wrote here. I suppose I had better catch ya'll up on the happenings here-
Stephen started Violin. He is thrilled, we are down a string already (thank goodness strings are not too spendy!). Soy Dust really did a number on him. Allergist thinks it was the MOLD in it, either way it was a scary few days.
(more to come after I feed the kids and get em on the bus)
well the update was interupted. I put the kiddos on the bus, talked to the neighbor, TRIED to get some work done when the call from the school came: "gabe got hurt on the playground. its about an inch laceration above his eye... we want you to come take a look, don't think it needs stitches but maybe some steri-strips"
Off to school we go, get there and he has an ice bag, start of a black eye, and a pretty good gash (but not needing stitches). He wanted to come home, I told him to stay in school and get a bunch of attention. At first that didn't fly until his class passed us in the hallway and everyone stopped and asked "whats the matter". Think his day is looking up as he ate it all up!!!
BTW, the cut came because the monkey bars won!
Archives
21
Sep
2006
Finally getting into a routine
Posted by 3malesandalady under General
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but don't know if that routine is good or not??? LOL
Past 2 days I slept way later than I should have, just trying to over do everything... and staying up till the wee hours of the dawn when you have to get up at 5:30 doesn't help either. BUT all is not for naught... cool stuff happening in the studio (even hubby said "oh, you were creative today" and did not mean it as a put-down (which he is really good at critiqueing crassly)
Stephen has a girl friend, the first day he mentioned it he never gave the name... the next day he exclaims her name and tells me she is his partner for science or such... brought back memories of my 5th grade crush on the teachers kid (we were partners on the shoebox homecoming float) ahhh to be young and in love (GOSH, that means he is GROWING......*sigh*)
Stephens Crush also explains why he wants to wake early every morning to take a shower... this from the kid that usually said "I will do it later" and never do it- and HATES waking in the morning- he is now getting up earlier for the bus, and then 1/2 an hour earlier than that to shower. Wonders never cease
Gabe has had a hard adjustment to Kindergarten, but it seems to be getting easier, today he said he wanted to go to school even though he keeps getting punched and slapped from the other kids. Better now I guess since he figured out that the Teacher is oK.
Bethie is adjusting to 2 schools this year. She is more tired and definitely more confused. When I take her to school, saying its a school day we gotta go... she is usually heard exclaiming "oh, this school" when it is in sight. She is going to Gabes old school this year, and has now switched from "gabes school" to "school name" so I guess that is positive.
12
Sep
2006
Dentist Day
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Finished taking the kids to the dentist for the next 4.5 months...
Boys went back today for their fillings. Fear of pain was top on the agenda. Soothed with thoughts of ice cream afterwards. Gabe like a big boy went first, but only with MOM present ( think adjusting to all day kindergarten is leaving him a bit homesick). He did a super job! 2 fillings later and the news that stephen is soon to get the mouth shot made all the difference in his attitude. Came out all smiles!
Stephen went back alone. He was to get 2 fillings also... commented afterwards that his mouth was all shiney and the mouth jewelery looked good on him. Little did I know until hubby told me to look, they cappped his tooth. No wonder why the kid was complaining about his mouth hurting (insert my memories of a root canal, and cap in my childhood- use your most unpleasent memories and include an emergency visit in the late evening to the dentist so I could talk and bite again). I feel really sorry for him today!
He asked me how he can "not have this again" told him he had to make a choice- more mouth jewelery or brush 3x a day (I would have settled on once and not heard the "I will do it later" thing again). Immediately he went off to brush... COOL!!!! maybe something good will come out of all this after all
Kids were happy- Gabe even told me I think well! that I made soft foods for supper... they were after their time frame but it was quick and easy- I sold it to them by telling them that it was soft and made for them...shhh don't tell on me as I am the good thinker! LOL
Was a good night, they made it halfway through supper before the fist one crashed out on the floor sound asleep. then stepehen went off to brush and kid #2 went down for the night to stephens dismay as he was in his chosen spot (kids are choosing to sleep in wierd areas lately, only putting my foot down on the extreme wierd spots (*hopeing this too shall pass, maybe sooner if they get it out of their system?)- this was the couch mind you- better than the tub wish I heard the other day, and NO that did not happen). No sooner than Gabe was woke to go to the bathroom stephen settled the argument and stole his spot back to Gabes dismay...
Oh well, all this traveling wore me out too... better hit the hay so I can get some work done in the morning as it is going to be only a half day anyways (bethie has school)...
11
Sep
2006
school
Posted by 3malesandalady under General
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School-
Bethie loves her tuition preschool (which is good I guess since I am paying! LOL). today they learned all about apples, and applesauce. I guess I added to it when I made warm applecrisp for potluck tonight for her headstart orientation... (more about that later)
Gabe- Loves kindergarten but the first day was rough, came home in a foul mood, said the teacher LIED to him... she said he earned a snickers then didn't get one. Next day he cleared up the matter on his own and found out she just forgot, he earned another the second day but either 1) lost it or 2) wasn't allowed to save it and she took it back... I just cannot get the story straight. Tonight (day 3) he is saying he doesn't get it. A kid turned down skittles by saying he didn't want them anyway and had to do a time-out, why? assume it was a "take your skittles and put them in a non-nice place" type comment that went right over his head and left him wondering why if you decline you get timeouts.
Stephen- Seems to love his EBD teachers room (it has 2 couches) and he was told he could sleep over in there???? seems to think if he acts wierd he gets more friends. and is waking up every night with nightmares. no clue, but think he is having a hard time adjusting. He said last night he wanted santa to bring him only one thing- no getting bigger medicine. Confused I thought he thought he was on some growth hormone... instead he meant (after further prying) that he wanted to stay a kid and never turn into an adult. I guess I must be putting too much pressure on him to act his age now that he is a big 4th grader...
Orientation tonight- ever see tons of kids running hitther yon... what fun!
04
Sep
2006
Good Nightmare
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Forgot to add:
Bethie "mommy I had a good nightmare last night"
Me "really? a GOOD Nightmare?"
Bethie "ya, I dreamed a boy kissed me" *smirk, Laughter, Blush*
SHE IS 4! Hubby has got to get ready I guess for the dating scene, as how she is going it won't be long now! LOL
04
Sep
2006
Welcome Aboard Melissa!
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Today we met with the new PCA. Melissa is her name. Hopefully I didn't scare her too much (or the kids!) LOL! Anyways the kiddos are really Jazzed to have someone come in again, as a day doesn't pass that I don't hear "is it a Steffie or Tracy day today?"
Kids are getting excited to go back to school and I am getting to the "frantic" baking point (have some done, much more to go- along with the grocery shopping for the school lunch still left to do). Kids start this week, but I have a few days. Bethie is getting so jazzed about TWO schools that she has been practicing her name and Gabe cannot comprehend that he will learn to read this year- still just looks at me dumbfounded that HE TOO can read! Stephen hasn't said much but I can tell that the first day isn't going to be the balking and the fear and trepidation has now passed.
I was lamenting and joked to the kiddos today that I was going to keep Gabe out of Kindergarten and Send Bethie instead. Reasoning- Gabe cleans up his stuff and I just realized what my basement is going to look like from my little digger who hates to put stuff away again. Gabe was fine with it as long as he could be in the studio with me, and of course little miss smartypants was more than happy to advance to Kindergarten! All bummed when I yelled out "april fools"
Can't believe the crocodile hunter died today. But as far as that goes, I was shocked when I heard Kenny Rogers new song "last 10 years (Superman)" -lyrics here - and found out via google that Christopher Reeves died too (and here he was just on a (evidentally re-run) show the other day with his wheelchair and breathing equiptment... Man I feel old all of a sudden!
Well, I had better get to work, guess I am not getting any younger...
Archives
29
Aug
2006
windows live messenger 8.0 update
Posted by 3malesandalady under General
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New version of live messenger out. I tried a few days ago to update and goofed it up- so a caravat here- do not close programs while the install is running, as it seems shutting messenger down will suddenly end the install and leave you in neitherland (btdt)
Anyways after a control panel "repair" of the program it finally repopped up again to update (actually it informed me a new version was available on the "info bar" where it talks about customer improvement, slow downloads etc). Here is the message you get afterwards (tho when searching about the changes they were security minded and this is for the whole program)
Welcome to Windows Live™ Messenger
This is the same Messenger you know and love, only better.
It has everything you're used to—your contact list, emoticons, and instant access to your friends via text, voice, and video—plus some cool new stuff, including:
PC-to-telephone calling (provided by Verizon Web Calling)
Instantly share and update files with your friends via new Sharing Folders
FREE PC-to-PC calls to 220 million Messenger contacts worldwide
Connect with your friends who use Yahoo! Messenger
Don't worry, your personal information and contact list and stuff will come with you to this new version. No re-typing necessary.
Get the latest at the Windows Live™ Messenger blog
Visit http://ideas.live.com for more info on Windows Live™ betas
25
Aug
2006
a kid funny and a quick catch-up
Posted by 3malesandalady under General
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Tonight bethie was acting so mature... I picked her up and asked her when she grew up. Without missing a beat she replies "35 weeks ago". wouldn't it be nice to know exactly when that moment happened???
I will be updating the business website soon... I came home from vacation and found my new toy delivered. So a new line of stuff in the works that I am really jazzed about. Also developing a few new colors. I have been working so much lately that I totally forgot about school things. I have been putting in "overtime" too bad the pay wasn't there with it yet ;) I am pushing for my first show the weekend after Thanksgiving. Gabe has been busy making his items too- which is good as I think he has a good seller item. He wanted to get a go-cart and be a "driver". I told him if he sold $1000 worth of stuff he could do it. Today he revised his goal, now he wants a flashlight. Both are better than Stephen who when he heard Gabe was going to race, made his goal really high- he wants to be a race car driver too, only on the Nascar circut!
Anyways, vacation was good as a refresher for me. Creatively new things are just pouring out (which is good). Both of the girls (Steph and Tracy) are off in college and only a week and a half left before my kids are in school. That will definitely change my work hours, which is good- as now I am working 5:30-10am; 10-12/1am and intermittently though the daytime hours when kids are sleeping, playing downstairs, or hubby is around (about another 3 hours).
Next week is all the medical stuff to do for school (asthma plan, allergy plan, getting the meds, etc and some of his groceries along with all the transportation details and script) and the few days left after labor day will be when I turn into "Betty Crocker" making the tortillas, muffins, cookies, cupcakes, waffles, etc. Thank Goodness this year I will not have to make the bread and buns too, as the neighboring towns bakery is safe (woo- whew!!!)
Kids miss Steph and Tracy already, they keep asking when they are coming again.... Gabe made Stephanies Christmas present already (if I don't toss it out first- its been floating around the house everywhere, he seems to want to carry it and admire it constantly!). Hopefully if you guys are reading this you are having a blast at school and rest assured you are missed here! (and thought of often!)
16
Aug
2006
Kid Quips
Posted by 3malesandalady under General
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Gabe has been having some really funnys lately:
when I was cleaning the kitchen faucet with vinegar, he said "whats that smell" and I obliged with a hand covered with vinegar to his nose and asked if he wanted to taste it too... which he replied "I know that smell and it's gusting!"
When trying to figure out why all the crayons were in a purse in the kitchen I heard "we needed to do that cuz w