Five years ago today...

George Williams came into the world

during Hurricane Ivan and a tornado...it's been a

whirlwind ever since!!!

Happy Happy Day, George!!!!

Mondays with Mimi...

A list of almost all the questions asked by Mimi driving home from shopping yesterday with Mimi (a minimum 20 minute drive)

Where does dirt come from?

Where do trees come from?

What's inside a seed?

Where do seeds come from?

Where are cars made?

Where is this knob made?

Where are windows made?

What is the sun made of?

What is the sky?

How are clouds made?

What is plastic made from?

What are polymers?

Why are there factories?

Where are dinosaurs?

What are organisms?

I am proud to say I answered every question as thoroughly as possible--we even had a discussion about Evolution and its process. She now understands that the world is billions of years old and that dinosaurs and humans DID NOT roam the earth together!

There were more questions...there are always questions...it's what I love about my Mimi!!!!

Stuff...

There is a walking stick on our outside wall. The kids are fascinated and even more so because it has been there ALL day!

Tonight when we came home and saw it, George asked:

"Why can't all the other sticks move??"

Mimi had her first violin lesson today with a high school student who plays the violin (helpful!). She is very excited and this is even before her violin has arrived! There are stickers in the book, so all is good!

Natan is talking up a storm, and we can understand more and more of it!! He has passed a milestone with his moods and frustration and seems to be making more meaningful connections, with fewer and fewer inexplicable "moments."

Vinny spends most of his time CLIMBING on everything...calling, "MIMI!!!!!", and learning new words..."moo" and "shoe" and hmmm...not much else!

Hi Ho Silver????

On our way to Panola Park yesterday, we saw this, and HAD to take a picture. Just when I think McDonough is not an exciting place to live...

One more thing...

Not that ALL we do is video Vinny dancing, but it sure does happen alot!!

Here is the latest--groovin' to Gwen Stefani!

Pondering...

A Facebook friend (Karen) posted this today and I like it!!

Read this!

Remember...I am Canadian (therefore I know how Universal Healthcare works), and have also spent tens of thousands of dollars on health insurance since George was born. George--who would be dead if we had not been able to afford insurance.

And don't give me that, "If you can't afford insurance, you shouldn't have kids" crap (all you Neal Boortz followers).

Here's a news flash based on experience: Rich people do no necessarily make good parents.

They tend to be moronic and neglectful.

I will not make the obvious "Republican" crack--the words moronic takes care of that for me!

Sorry--had to say it!!

Just One Voice...

Mimi: "Is that the same picture as the one on the fridge?" (looking at my Barry Manilow t-shirt)

Me: "Yes--good observation!"

Mimi: "How you got two pictures?"

Me: "We went to the concert and I got the shirt and the magnet."

Mimi: "Is it because he is the best singer?"

Score! Another Fanilow!

The Normative American Family

We have to turn in a family photo tomorrow to our Social Worker--we actually got this one after the first try--never happens!!!!

I LOVE the way Natan is holding onto George. We just told them to stand still and smile--they grabbed on to each other all by themselves...

And look--they are all dressed!!!!

Rat Race, baby

There was a rat in our pool today.

Gross.

It fought the good fight.

It swam around from the early, dark morning hours until sometime around noon.

Did not know rats could swim so well.

No. I did not rescue it.

It's a rat.

Rodent.

Disease-carrying crap animal.

Go ahead--call PETA.

The rat removal man is here now--that would be Jason.

Ugh.

Up and at 'em!

6:00 a.m.--Vinny is awake and running through his plethora of words
6:10--bottle, hoping he'll fall back to sleep and not wake George who is in with me (me who has been awake, as usual, on and off through the night)
6:20--after having slipped out to go downstairs, sitting with coffee in hand, I hear two creatures talking in my room. Hmmm...
6:35--George, Mimi and Vinny are up and downstairs--I have yet to take a sip of my liquid crack.
Mimi says to me: "It's way too dark to be up!" (Hello?? What I always say!)
I ask her why she's up so early.
her response: "Oh...it's because of all the sound. I heard footsteps and doors and whispers. Imust have good ears in Chinese--everybody in Chinese has good ears."
So--see what you can learn before 6:45??
Now to tend to the hungry creatures...and wait for Natan to rise.
After my coffee...

The Normative American Family

A new requirement for adoption is to complete a ten-hour "international adoption" parent study. Yes, it's as big a waste of time as it sounds, especially when we've done this twice already. We are having to record our answers to question such as: "What talent do you not have that you wish you had?"

Jason said "Exotic Dancer." VERY helpful...

"What do you not have in your home right now that you would like?"

I said a Maid.

So...not answers we'll be using.

It really is pretty ridiculous.

We are both a little out off by the phrase they use throughout stating that we will feel the loss of not having a "normative American family." WHAT???

Newsflash: Our family is the all-American family.

Look around.

The American family of the future is not made of little genetic parcels who all look the same.

It is a hodge podge of color...race...whatever.

Normative American Family.

Whatever. I just want to get on with this!

Random things...

George, sitting on the throne pooping:

GEORGE: "Will my bones come out?"

ME: "When?"

GEORGE: "When I poop."

ME: "No, they'll stay right where they are?"

GEORGE: "Then how WILL they come out?"

ME: "They won't. Your bones are what give you support."

GEORGE: Does Papa still have his bones?"

ME: "Yep."

GEORGE: "Am I going to die like Papa when I', old?"

ME: "Yep...but that's a super duper long time away/"

GEORGE: "Will Nana miss me when I die?"

(OK, at this point all I am thinking is OMG--what will my mother be like/look like when she's 130 years old??!!! HELP!!!!!)

End of discussion!

Mimi driving home from choir today:

MIMI: "Can I be a policeman when I big?"

ME: "Sure." (what I want to say is NO! Too dangerous!!!)

GEORGE: "Mimi...you can't do that. Police carries guns." (we're working on our grammar!)

MIMI: "Mama...will i have a gun if I a policeman?"

ME: "Yep."

MIMI: "Why I carry a gun?"

ME: "Sometimes police officers have to protect themselves."

MIMI: "Against bad guys?"

ME: "Yep."

MIMI: "Will I have to shoot bad guys?"

ME: "Sometimes. And sometimes police officers get shot, too."

MIMI: "I do NOT want to be a policeman!!"

(pause)

MIMI: "Mama...can I be a fireman?"

ME: "Yep."

MIMI: "What do they do?"

ME: "They put out big fires."

MIMI: "Can they get burned?"

ME: "I suppose they can."

MIMI: " I am NOT going to that!"

(Pause)

MIMI: "I just won't be anything!!!!!!"

Vinny can say "shoe" now.

He can also climb onto the kitchen table and try to swing form the light fixture.

He may actually be worse than Mimi and George together.

Holy crap.

He hasn't climbed out of the crib yet nor has he taken off his diaper and painted with his poop. He did, however, take it off tonight after dinner. I believe he likes to feel the wind beneath his...well, you know!

Natan is being Mr. Helpful these days--cleaning and tidying.

OCD? Maybe!

Helpful? Totally! I'll take it!

This is all very exciting, I know.

Isms

George: "Daddy...can we fly kites today?"

Daddy: "There isn't enough wind today, George."

George: "But Dad...I can run REALLY fast!"

Mimi: "Mama...I love you forever and a hundred..."

(we were having our Friday all-girl slumber party while the boys had theirs in "the boys' room with Daddy)

Mimi saw an adorable panda onesie at Walmart the other night and convinced me to buy it for her new sister. She has decided to start a box of things to collect to give her new sister upon arrival!

Vinny: TALKING like crazy now!! It's taking us back to when Mimi and George were starting out--they had their own little language that they understood perfectly but we would take days to decipher! Vinny is saying all the standard, "normal" baby stuff: Ba-ba, Uh-oh, ah...ah...CHOO!!

Natan is LOVING his new dance lessons! Miss Beverly is the perfect match for him and he knows that...it's amazing how kids react to those who show a little love...

Jason: Turns 40 this year but is living in the body of an 80 year old! One of his feet hurts so much he can barely walk in the morning...saw a specialist a few months ago but they "came up with nothing."

Probably caused by living with me--his brain telling him I need a swift kick in the ass!

Waiting...

EVERYTHING is done. I sent our autobiographies today. Now we wait.

Our next step is fingerprinting. All the while gathering more and more paperwork to send.

Then, more waiting.

Hmmm...

Is it wrong that I let Mimi watch law and Order today while I sorted laundry?? It's the one down time hour I catch during the day--I like to spend it with my TV hubby, Jack McCoy. She couldn't sleep during nap time, so down she came.

After the telltale scene change, "Duhn. Duhn." she told me, "I like that sound mama..."

Yes!! A Law and Order convert!

Oh...don't you judge!! Some people love their Soaps...I love my L & O!

On our walk this morning, Natan inadvertently stepped on a live cicada and it buzzed rather fiercely in defense! Everyone froze, not quite knowing what it was, and then we saw the bug and realized Natan had stepped on it, we all had a good, gut wrenching laugh!!

Natan's comment: "Wet's do that again!!!"

That's all, folks!

Some nice things to say as well

I realized that some my blogging gets a little ranty (see previous post from a few minutes ago!). I am not apologizing, but there is more to me than the occasional vents and rants--they just make life exciting! I have always thought that if you don't care enough about anything to get worked up, you are just wasting space!

I think perpetually bubbly people are hiding something...

So here are a couple of nice things to balance out the venting:

It poured rain her just after dinner. All four kids ended up outside, naked (duh) in the rain--dancing, singing (yes, it was something out of a movie...) and f course, splashing each other. It was just...Nice. I took pictures. Unfortunately, can't post any because of the naked!!

I love how the kids are real people now. Not that they were aliens before, but they are REAL.

They have meaningful conversations with me and each other and they want to know stuff and they are smart and funny.

And they will come at random times and hug me and say "Love you, Mama!" for no reason.

It does a Mama good.

I have also perfected "Janice's Biscuits" and tonight's batch were the best yet. Big, fluffy (seriously fluffy in fact!) and just brown enough on top. OMG. Delish!!

Natan ate a bunch and after almost every bite said, "This is deee-wicious!"

**Janice, if you're reading, I have to use a stick of unsalted butter since I can't get Becel here. Would plain yogurt work too??**

Today

Started back to dance today. Mimi & George go first and of course, were elated to see Miss Beverly!! Natan was next and he had a GREAT time! Miss B said he did the "Head & Shoulders" dance before anyone else--I was beaming! When you have a child with a developmental delay, you tend to relish in the small accomplishments!

Mimisms:

"Are you real?"

Me: "Yeeeesssss..."

Mimi: "Are you sure you're really real?"

Me: "Real? Yeeessss..."

End of discussion--I may never know what she meant!

George: watched him outside on the "pitio" for a goodly amount of time playing robot. Sitting by himself in a chair, thinking no one could see him, moving his arms robot-esque and speaking robot.

Random Friday night thoughts...

Mimi is 5, George will soon be 5. Where has the time gone? And why do I constantly hear parents breathe the proverbial sigh of relief when their kids are back to school?? Don't they even miss them a little bit??

Again, I ask: If you stick your kids in daycare (anything up until Kindergarten), and then can't wait for them to be in school full time, why the hell did you have them in the first place?

This is, of course, excluding single parents who have no choice.

But, as I have said before, the people I see and hear are working for the "stuff."

I remember a woman--a lawyer--once saying to me, "I can't believe you stay at home. I was so bored until ______ was three months old. I just HAD to go back to work."

I should have said, but didn't:"You're a lawyer? How on earth do you do that every day? I'd be SO bored..."

So, here I sit at the end of a very good week.

Jason's first week back.

We have played outside, we've walked every morning, we've practiced letters & numbers, we've read books galore, we've swum every day in the pool, been monsters, aliens, Jedi Knights, princesses, packages (hide underneath an upside down laundry basket), sous chefs, bakers, cleaners, and anything else you can imagine!

Bored? Hardly!

Happy? Over the top!

Mimi had her 5 year check today.

Normal. Always good.

Vinny had his 15 month visit as well. (15 MONTHS!!!!!).

They both received the necessary immunizations.

I asked their pediatrician (awesome doctor!!) what she says to parents who are stupid enough not to vaccinate. She said that she tells them she grew up in a Third World country and saw people die every day from diseases that could have been prevented with vaccines. To choose not to have them is putting your kids at a terrible risk.

As you all know, Jason and I are vehemently opposed to parents who do not vaccinate. It is neglectful and truly not an act of love.

To all anti-immunizing parents: Find an isolated island far, far away. Please...

Finally...some isms:

George: "Mama!! I have my underwear on! Now my penis is protected!"

(We were walking in the rain--he had on underwear and a 3T raincoat. That's it.)

Mimi: "Mama--will you remember his day forever? Even when I'm a big girl? 'Cause I will remember."

(We were hanging out, rolling a ball back and forth to each other with no boys around)

Natan: "Good job!" "That was AWESOME!" "Wook!" "Sawee!" (Sally)

George: "Can I see your jingles?"

He meant "shingles" which I may or may not have had the past few weeks--doctor isn't sure anymore! I corrected him and said they are called "shingles" and he said:

"Oh, yeah. Right, right. Jingles come at Christmas!"

Vinny: "Coo-coo" (cookie) "Poo" (pool) "Tan-too" (thank you) "Uh-oh"

(And...he can swim! Jason throws him in and he comes up laughing!)

Thanks for reading...g'nite!

V-Master's Groove

SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE

Vinny dancing is perhaps one of the funniest, sweetest, and down-right cutest things I have ever seen! he does it ALL the time! Sometimes, without music! He dances to the beat of a silent drummer!

He likes all genres of music from Mozart to AC/DC to Sharon, Lois and Bram!

Today's clip is to "Louie, Louie" and he added a couple of new moves!!

Enjoy!

Paperwork!

The first round of papers have been sent to their respective recipients.

Requesting a girl (Mimi is READY!!!), and looking into some Waiting Child options.

The wait is 12-18 months.

From today.

This is all thanks to my Mum...

Children's HomeSociety & Family Services

Found this today...I just like the faces.

Click here!

Girlie-Girl

Mimi is no girlie-girl!

Am I glad? I have to admit...I am!

I don't know what I would do if she were a timid little priss!

This is the picture to prove that she can hold her own in a house full of boys...in her hand is the live frog she caught.

She came running into the house yelling, "Mama! Mama! I caught a frog!!"

Score.

Mimi-ism...

At my doctor today, we waited for an hour and a half. Then, waited another hour to see the doctor. No kidding. Then, another half hour with the doctor. In at 3, out at 6.

Then...the nurse taking my blood couldn't get any blood from my veins after two attempts.

Ever had a needle inserted and then jiggled inside your arm?? It hurts a little.

Then, the next nurse couldn't get any blood either. She jiggled the needle too, and finally, blood letting began!

Afterwards, Mimi came to me and hugged me.

She said: "I will be you little Ya-Ya and make you feel better Mama..."

Jason-ism

Jason just told me about a woman he spoke to yesterday going through the checkout line at Lowe's.

She told him (out of the blue) that she used to weigh 500 pounds and had lost over 200 pounds.

His reaction: "Holy cow!"

He then said Congratulations. But I think the damage was done...

He didn't get it. Until. Just. Now.

I finally managed to pick myself off the floor (where I was rolling!) to blog this.

For Better or For Worse...

Click the link below for a cute For Better or For Worse comic. She' one of my favorites!

(And then, Mum...click on the "Back" browser button to get back to the blog. Don't keep clicking it and get mad.)

Click for a cute comic!

Milestone

We've passed the moment when our kids hate for us to leave them.

We went to the annual Meadow's Music Party (an amazing evening of good and "other" musical talent and lots of catching up with folks), and before we left, George came into the kitchen and said, "Mama...are you going to leave now? It's time for you and Daddy to leave. I'll miss you. You can go now."

Mommy Baby Yoga

I know there actually exist out there several programs that offer "Mommy/Baby Yoga".

Mine isn't one of them.

My Yoga consists of me doing yoga and Vinny sitting on me...pulling my ponytail...tickling my feet...and whatever else fancies him!

The finale was Vinny jumping on my stomach in the "Let's just relax and unwind" portion of the session.

I think I see a video series in my future!!

Bums Away!

So...the kids are potty trained but still want their bums wiped after pooping (just to make sure)!

Evidently, Mimi has taken on a new chore--today when George yelled, "Help I poop-ted!" she went running and before either of us could get to him, she was wiping G's bottom.

And she did a fine job, too!

Ayaan Hirsi Ali cont...

"Submission Part 1" is the movie that Ayaan Hirsi Ali made with Dutch Director, Theo Van Gogh. He was brutally murdered as a result of making the movie in 2004. She now lives under the threat of death for speaking out against Islam.

Right after that is the interview between Ali and Anderson Cooper. She is a phenomenal and inspiring woman...

Submission Part 1

Interview

Everything & Nothing...

In Love...
So much to write, and my mind simply shuts down when I sit here...
I love my kids. There. I said it. I think they are perhaps the most beautiful, outstanding, gorgeous, happy creatures I have ever known.
Yes, I know other people love their kids too. And I know they think their kids are all that. But aren't we, as parents, supposed to think our kids are the most fantastic?
So there. I admit it. I am madly in love.
And yes, Jason is pretty OK too!
My problem is that I forget to focus on the moment. I pay too much attention to the chores that need to be done...jobs that should be accomplished. The kids are growing up so fast, and I am afraid that it will be over with in the blink of an eye.
My new goal is to forget about the crap and focus on what counts. The laundry will still be there, waiting to be put away. The vacuuming can wait another day. But my kids are not always going to say,"Watch me, Mommy!" or want to curl up on my lap and snuggle. They are going to, someday, want to spend more time with their friends than their parents. They will not always ask to sleep with us. So...I am going to enjoy each moment. Chores be damned!

It's Not Over Till...
On that note...we had a lovely party for Mimi on Thursday with most of the usual suspects present, plus a few newbies.
However, our day did not end happily. Post party, we went to register for dance. On the way home, George used the glass breaker (which Jason keeps in the car for emergencies and failed to notice George playing with), to break his window in the Mac Daddy Van. We heard a sound that really sounded like a gunshot.
Here is my confession: I yelled. All the way home. First at George because he scared the crap out of me and all I could see were shards of glass all over the seat he was sharing with Vinny. Then, I yelled at Jason. because he was oblivious to the fact that George, right under his nose, found the glass breaker and was using it as a toy while I was inside the dance studio.
So there. I yelled. I did not use profanity. There was no need. I don't spank, but I can rip a good tongue lashing off when necessary. I believe it worked. Both boys were chagrined and I do not believe George will attempt any such stunt again. I can't speak for Jason.
Don't judge me. Sometimes a Momma gots to yell.

Isms...
Vinny is now waving and saying "Hi!" to everyone we see, including all present family members. He is a talker! "Tiko" means "tickle." "Ta-too" means "thank you."
And the dancing continues, with some new and improved hip hop moves!

Natan is improving every day and I think it is in part to Mimi and George. He repeats everything they say, and actually has some meaningful conversations with them and us. I am so glad I kept him home instead of going the Special Ed route.

Mimi is sleepwalking again. She managed to get down to the TV Room the other night (2 flights of stairs), whimpering but not aware. She had not recollection the next day. I slept with her to make sure she was OK, and she did not remember that, either. Hmmm...

George. Obsessed with robots. Obsessed with his penis. Obsessed with dying (ever since Dad's funeral). Obsessed with signs that say "NO--" It's the slash line that he seems to like. Obsessed with car washes.

So I've rambled on. Before I go...top five favorite things this week so far (yes, I know it's only Monday!)
1. My Mom. For many reasons, but in particular, an offer she made to us that I will divulge later.
2. Slum Dog Millionaire. OMG. What an awesome movie.
3. Tropical Desire: Canadian bacon, pineapple slices, tomato, lettuce, Swiss cheese, grilled on an English muffin.
4. Steroids. Don't ask. But I love drugs!!!
5. Augusten Burroughs and David Sedaris (equally talented authors whom I love!).

5 alive!

Five years ago today, Lou Fu Si was born. That wasn't her name until she was discovered in a park a few days later.

Now she's Mimi and I can't imagine what it was like before we met...

We may not have been there on that day five years ago, but we are here today. And man are we going to celebrate!!

We are having a Panda Luau today! Mimi is all about the party...especially the cake.

Let the good times roll!

Here is a short video montage of her life thus far:

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Good Times...

Spent the day in Birmingham with the Ingrams...so good to see ML and the kiddos int heir new and fabulous house!

At one rest stop, the kids saw a mother smoking while holding her toddler's hand. Their response:

"Her teeth are going to turn black. Then she is going to die. She's a bad mama, isn't she?"

Jedi Master...taught them well we have!

I also love that when we were up in Cobourg, whenever the kids saw someone smoking (of which we saw a lot), they would point and exclaim loudly: "Why do you want to die?? Mommy? Daddy? Are those idiots?"

My instinct would normally have been to shush them...but not anymore. You wanna smoke around my kids? Good luck with that. Oh, and good luck with your future cancer. Hope it's worth it.

Cheese!

So Uber Boy Baby Vinny is not only walking but also talking! Like a maniac!

His current three favorite activities:

Dancing. Put on some fast, rockin' music, and he immediately starts bouncing and moving his arms! Yes, I have video to upload!

Saying, "Cheese!" with toy camera in hand

Saying, "Aaaa....CHOO!"

Never a dull moment...

Also, kudos to Jason for transforming my piano studio for me. Can't wait to see what my students think!

Random musings...

Click here to read about an incredible woman.

I devoured her book on the way to Cobourg...could blog for hours but won't.

Ayaan Hirsi Ali answered many of the nagging questions I have always had regarding organized religion. Here are a few, and no, I don't want personal answers!

How much does a person have to suffer and still be expected to believe in some/any sort of higher being?

Is faith in the untouchable necessary?

Is faith in things concrete enough? If so, why are people judged for being Agnostic or Atheistic?

Why do people use religion to justify behaviors/decisions that are clearly human?

What matters most: how you treat others, or how well you know the bible or other religious text?

Maybe it's time I packed it in and went to bed...

For those concerned that I am actually reading smart literature, fear not: I also read several discount "cottage" books--books that are perfect for sitting in jammies, drinking coffee, and ignoring children! Fast, fun, and good for the soul...

Boy in the Mirror

George just came and told me that "someone is being mean to me." I naturally assumed Mimi or Natan...turns out it was the boy in the mirror, staring back at him, being mean.
Well. We told that boy in the mirror. I made him apologize, which he did, and now all is well.
The final mark was George shutting off the light and making the mean boy in the mirror go away.
Man oh man.

Canada Pics

Uploaded all our Canada trip pictures yesterday. They are in "Family Pictures" which you can now find under the Google ads.
Also added a few more to "May 2009."
Enjoy...

It makes (Ad) Sense???

I have added Ad Sense from Google to the blog...I apologize in advance if it is a pain.

Home again, home again...

Arrived home last night, 11:30 after 2 solid days int he van. Survived! Kids watched "Wall E" umpteen times...very clever little movie!
Almost didn't come home, mainly because we wanted to stay! However, pay checks are kind of a nice way to pay for things, so here we are, back in McD.
We extended our trip from Cobourg to head to Nova Scotia for a visit with Sara and Dwayne and to hang in "Nana's Blue House" on the Point. Ahhhh...let the slug behaviour commence!
Daily schedule at the Blue House:
Wake up. Drink coffee. Read. Think about getting dressed. Stay in jammies. Drink more coffee. Eat breakfast. Continue reading. Check to make sure the kids are safe (playing outside). Read some more. Make and drink more coffee. Drag yourself to change into cottage attire. Read. Lunch. Read. Nap. Dinner at Aunt Sa's and Uncle Dane's. Walk on Point. Get back into jammies. Read. Hot tea. Read. Fall asleep. Go up to bed.
Repeat daily.
Have I mentioned that we LOVE Nana's Blue House?? It sits up a hill at the end of a long lane. Ocean to the front and side. Cows in the surrounding fields. No TV. No computer.
Damn.

Now for fun!

Mimi: "But the boys kept waking me up, so I HAD to play!" (after getting in trouble from Da b/c she and the boys were NOT sleeping):

George: |"There's that noodle dog again." (Meaning the golden doodle dog we saw yesterday!)

Natan: "Well done!Well done!" (his "phrase-of-the-day")

Vinny: "Cheese!" and pose...whenever the camera comes out!

Heading to Tim's for biscuits then shopping...beach again tonight.
Scottish Highland festival tomorrow!!!! Haggis, anyone?????!!!!!!

Stupid Toronto Union

So...Canada Day is rapidly approaching (July 1) and the Toronto city workers are on strike. Garbage is not being collected. Instead, temporary dump sites have been set up throughout the city--parks of all places! The union workers (who are paid VERY well and have great benefits) are demanding higher pay and more benefits.
Now, as you probably know, I lean toward a very Socialist ideal.
HOWEVER...I have been to developing nations. I have seen the work conditions. People in Toronto should be thankful they are employed and are compensated well for their work. Should I dare mention that these workers have high school educations?? Not that there's anything wrong with that, but...I have Master's degree. If I want to work, I will earn more because I have earned it!
I am trying to convince Jason to take a road trip with a load of garbage to dump in front of the picketers, but he is not game. Mimi is...maybe I'll take her!
So, avoid Toronto! What was once a gorgeous city is turning into a garbage slum at the hands of the unions.
This is both a pro and a con to moving back to Canada. I am not in favor of unions, but I would like to part of the solution.

Eh??!!

Having a BLAST!
Left McD. at 2:30 Sunday afternoon...arrive Cobourg, Ontario at 10:00 a.m. Enjoyed a Tim's and ate breakfast at the park since Nana was out when we arrived--note to self: get a house key!!!!!
Mum left right away for a dentist appt. Within minutes of us arriving, Mum leaving, George somehow set the house alarm so as soon as we opened the front door, the house was filled with a screaming siren and automated female voice announcing there was a "South Door" open. It went on for a good twenty minutes. The security company called, but with the siren bleating and George standing in front of me crying, 'I WANT TO GO HOME!!!!!!" she couldn't hear me. I called the dentist's office finally and got the code from mum who said, "I THINK that's it!!!"
So, we have likely already over stayed our welcome, but man, are we having fun!!!!
Had a birthday dinner for Nana (which she cooked!) and then headed to the beach for fun in the "water fing" which is the playground of water spraying thingys! Woo Hoo!!!!!!!
Off to Auntie Gail's today to see Heather and Uncle Biff before Heather downloads the baby!!
Anonymous: I brought a forzen section of your cake for thebirthday dinner...LOVED by all!!!! Mimi and George loved finding out those cakes belong to their beloved Celeste!!!!! Thanks!

All our bages are packed, we're ready to go!

Car cleaned and packed...
House cleaned and ready...
Blackberries picked and packed and ready to go into Nana's pie...
Suitcases, etc. packed and loaded...
Last load of laundry drying...
Kids sleeping...
Two very tired parents vegging...
Leaving tomorrow afternoon...
And...I only made three lists!
Here we come, Nana!!!!!!!!

Ahhh....

All our kids are having fun this week at "camp"--even Vinny is happy since he is with his Maggie! Except for the mysterious red thing in George's nether regions, there haven't been any glitches (to my knowledge!).

Successful outcome at the dermatologist for Natan and me today, and we only waited 45 minutes in the waiting room, then another 30 minutes in the exam room and only saw the PA for about five minutes...

Got everything planted that needed to be planted...

Every time we leave the house, the kids think we're "going to Nana's!" They are so excited but then so bummed when we end up at church or Wal Mart!!!!!

Night swim with the kiddos to cool off before a way too late bedtime...

Anonymous, if you're reading this...THANK YOU for making this such a fabulous week for our kids, and also THANKS for your cake today--I haven't snacked all week, but I did today!!!!!!!

So you think you can dance!

Mimi & George performed in their spring dance recital on Saturday! Their teacher, Miss Beverly, is super sweet to the kids and understands their age and all that comes with being this age, which is the entire reason both kids actually moved on the stage this year--they had a blast!
Here is the video...pics posted in "Family Pictures":
dance

We had the talk with George about dance after an older boy pitched an awful fit on stage at the recital (not dress rehearsal). George is a great sport about people picking on him and being able to brush it off. He understands that people who pick on you are "just idiots." A couple of lines I've taught him to say in response to kids who may tease him about dance:
"On the football field, guys are surrounded by other guys in tights...on the dance floor I'm surrounded by girls in tights with no underwear!"
"It's all about the chicks and the tights..."
Feel free to add more!

George-isms

George, as I was pushing Natan and him in the cart while shopping:
"Are you going to have another baby in your tummy, Mommy?"
"I don't know--why? Do you want another baby?"
"Yeah...I want more Vincentses!" (the plural for Vincent--I don't think there's a dictionary spelling for that!)
Of course, the next thing out his mouth was to ask to go see the live lobsters! I guess I won't read too much into the musings of George!

Mimi-isms...

In the dressing room at the GAP store:
Mimi tried on a halter top but I didn't tie it tightly enough at first. She looked at herself in the mirror and exclaimed rather loudly: "Mama...everyone can see my boobies!"
I heard a woman next to us laughing. And the problem has been fixed.

Mimi on Sunday morning, after being woken up (again!) by George:
"I want to move to a quiet house so I can sleep in."

June is busting out all over!

We all survived the trip home for my Dad's funeral.
Observations on said funeral:
Mum had a picture of Dad in the living room from many moons ago--looking the way we all remember him. Mimi and George couldn't say who it was in the picture. Natan, however, took one look and said, "Papa." Then, before the funeral started and people were gathering and milling about, Natan walked up to the closed casket in the church, touched it and said, "That's my Papa."

George insisted on sleeping with Dad's "bio" which had a photo on the front. Even woke up in the night frantically searching for it.

I took Mimi and George to view Dad before his casket was closed. They were not afraid of him, lying there, looking very unlike how I will remember him, and how I will hep them remember him. They asked if they could touch Papa. Mimi wanted to know if it would wake him up. I think she hoped it would, rather than feared it would...

George fell fast asleep at the beginning of what was a fabulous funeral service, and Mimi squeezed my hand the entire time.

I'm glad we took all the kids...my Dad would have loved them to bits.

Briefly...

Just added some new pictures into "May 2009" in our family photos. They're at the end of all the other May pictures...

Dad

Here is something that shows a tiny part of my Dad! It's funny that pictures can show a person's reaction to different people...each picture, for me, has a story behind it, or a memory implanted.
I feel sad on a personal level that I won't even share with Jason. But mostly I feel sad because he would have LOVED the kids. And he never got to know them. And that sucks.
Makes me think about my own Life video and what it would look like...
Click on the picture:

My Montage 5/14/09

Good times...

Had a nice party for Vinny--good friends, and what I hope was good food!
Here is Vinny post-cake-smoosh!
I must say he rocked the party--give him a room full of women who will laugh at EVERYTHING he does, and he is in hog heaven!!

May 12, 2009

Vinny turns ONE today! Can't believe it!
Click on the picture below:

Vincent 1st Birthday

Confession

I'm having an affair.
I love Sam Waterston.
I think it's his eyebrows.
Jason knows.
He also thinks it's sad and a little pathetic.
And now, I'm five minutes past my SVU opener.
Chung. Chung. (That's the theme!)

The sun sets...again!

"Toodles" is gone (name chosen by kids). One of the sweetest dogs I have ever met is gone. I am sad. It doesn't mater that we didn't need him...it doesn't matter that we already have four kids, one dog, one cat. I am sad.
Turns out he is a show dog and that's why he's "intact." So THAT'S the word!!!
I'll say one thing: If Toodles gets out again...I'm keeping him!!!

P.S....Ever hear of putting up FENCES you idiot dog owners!!!

Dog is my co-pilot...

You've heard this before I'm sure. I am now living proof!
We were out on walk number one this morning and as we approached out house, saw a sweet little Miniature Schnauzer. CLEARLY looking to find a feisty female--judging by the size of his...ummm...attributes! He followed us in through our open breezeway door and is a real charmer!
Am I being sent some cosmic message from Dog???
Once he is snipped he will stop lifting that infernal leg, and may be a keeper!
Unless any of my faithful readers are interested...
Just another day in the life...and I love it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

stuff...

Six Flags (or "Seven Flags" as George seems to think it's called!):
Took the kids on Saturday because Jason was going with a group from his school. Had a BLAST!!! 12 hours of walking...LOTS of rain...no whining, fussing, or napping!! Mimi is the daredevil of the group--George errs on the side of, "Maybe next time..." as far as the "scary rides" go!

Walking back to the car through the park, I saw that Mimi had a look of terror on her face (she was behind us with An"from Daddy's work). She jumped into my arms and finally told me that "I ate my money!!!!!!!!!!" She had been finding and collecting pennies off the ground ALL DAY--eight to be exact. Evidently, she decided to swallow one and now and some regrets. She, in typical Mimi style, heaved and threw up her $16 Ben and Jerry's ice cream while throngs of people walked by. It just isn't a day out if one of the Montague kids doesn't puke.

This morning:
I gave George his morning BP bill. He always just takes it, no fuss, no muss. Today, he said as he was chewing it (it is actually meant to be swallowed!!):
"What the hell."
I asked what he meant. He answered: "What the hell--I'm not going to take my pill anymore."
In between gulps of laughter, I explained that yes, he would continue taking it, no questions asked.

Natan brought down two pairs of pants this morning instead of pants and a shirt. He got one pair of pants on, looked at the second pair, realized his mistake, and promptly put the other pair on his head. "Wook, Mama--my hat!" He is still wearing it...two hours later!!

For those who care...Natan is just about fully potty trained!!! YAY!!!!! Now...to get started on Vinny. He is almost one, after all!!!!!!

I love my kids.

Bad, bad people...

We went to Panola State Park yesterday morning to play and hike around--a favorite place of the kids.
Arrived at 9:00.
Found abandoned puppy on slide at 9:02.
Argh.
I am normally OK in these situations--logically I know that you can't pick up every stray animal just because it is in heaven romping with your kids, who, it would appear, are also in heaven.
So, guard being down and all, I agreed to bring him home, with the rule that he may not be ours to keep--"we are just keeping him safe for now."
Not many people are looking for a puppy. Most people also don't like mutts.
We kept him--the kids named him "Panola." I thought it would be OK until today when he started in with his puppy bites on Vinny. He did it to me, and I have to say, it hurt!!! Imagine that on the fleshy little arm and face of a one year old.
So...because some IDIOT couldn't bother to spay or neuter, and then abandoned the result of said idiocy, I had to call Animal Control and be the heavy.

People: SPAY AND NEUTER YOUR DAMN ANIMALS!!!!!!!!

That is my thought for toady.

Good times...

Walmart. 8:30 this morning. Greeted by all the nice ladies that work there...nice, quiet store.
First, right off the bat, Natan scammed a Cheeto from a Walmart Lady. She thought it was very funny, and was impressed that he said Thank You!
Near the end of our shopping, the same nice Walmart Lady gave each of the kids a small bag of Cheetos (she asked first!). They spent the last ten minutes of the trip yelling, "Thank you, Cheeto Girl!" every time they saw her.
On our way out, a lady stopped and asked me if she could walk with us. My first thought as you can imagine, was that she was some zealot who was going to try to convert me to some wacky religion--she would have met her match! However, she only wanted to know where Natan was from, although she alraady knew. I also asked if she were from Ethiopia--clearly she was. She has lived here for 18 years and is married to an American from Texas. She gave me her number and wants to try to get more ET folks together--adopted or otherwise.
I was also very proud Mimi who, when Hannah (woman from ET), asked to hold her hand as we walked, Mimi asked me, "Is that OK, Mama? Is she a good or bad stranger?" YAY!!! She's been listening!!!!!
OK, so Natan DID take "it" out to go wee-wee in front of a car full of people, and I DID put "it" back in just in time, but all in all...a great morning!!! And we were home by 10:30!!!!!!!!

The BooBoo Bandaid Monster

Jason and I got the kids up last night, as usual, for one last wee-wee, and found what seemed like hundreds of band aids and wrappers all over the bedroom floor. Then, I noticed, George had wrapped a band aid around each of his fingers, and some were stuck haphazardly on his body. Mimi had some stuck on her legs, but she confessed that George had wanted to be the "Boo Boo Band aid Monster".
Oh my.
Even in the middle of the night, they keep us laughing!!!!

Dear Anonymous

I wanted to restate that you are NEVER the subject of my blogs in a negative way! I thought a lot about what you said last night...about age giving a person a sense of freedom, perhaps?? I agree wholeheartedly!
My vent stemmed from typically "old" ladies (women who act older than they really are and are negative beyond imagination), criticizing me for the little things: my baby is not wearing socks...why aren't my kids in school...the kids will catch a cold not wearing shoes...that sort of thing. And this from people who do not even know me! And it happens EVERY time I go out.
Advice from those with experience and wisdom is always welcome--I don't have to follow it if I choose not to!
And, FYI...You have two of the nicest grandkids, so you got street cred!!!

why bother...

Maybe venting is pointless. People continue, on almost a daily level, to say things to me which are highly offensive--personal things--while I remain quiet, lest I offend them...I blog because I don't want to hurt someone's feelings and this is the safest place for me to react.

When someone criticizes me for not putting the kids in school yet, do I answer them back and criticize them for their use of daycare? No.

When someone says something racist, do I tell them that stupidity is color blind which their ignorant comments prove? I should, but I don't.

When people say,"Oh, you must want to be like Angelina Jolie..." should I respond that they must want to be like Britney Spears (works for folks with two kids)?

When people say I am not old enough to know what I'm talking about, do I tell them that life's experiences make us wise, not age, and until they know my own experiences, they shouldn't judge? Nope. Because that would be rude.

When a woman told me she and her family were "chosen by god" and that we weren't and that is why George has a heart defect--should I have asked her why she would be chosen--she and her disgusting, mouth breathing kids??

I can't go anywhere and not get attacked personally without even asking for it. Checking out groceries...shopping at Target...church...anywhere.

Jason and I have a large family because it's what we want. We will add to it in a few years. It's nobody's business.
We adopt because it's what we choose to do. It's nobody's concern.
Feel free to make your comments.
One of these days...

This needs no title...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jGEPjFfP5TQ

You've got to be kidding...

A local "private" school (in quotes because it's really a lightweight "christian" school), ELCA-- founded years ago under a different name because white parents didn't want their white children attending school with black children when integration occurred--is holding some sort of religion conference later this month.
Jason and I know a rather misfitting teacher (misfitting because he actually has a brain but desperately needs a job!), is part of the planning. He had various people of varied religious backgrounds coming. All the plans were in place, and the administration dropped the bomb at the very last minute and asked him to tell the Muslim leader to "not attend" because of the outcry that came from all the parents.
He did--against his better judgment.
Here is a school teaching its students to be intolerant, hateful, and judgmental--JUST what this world needs!!!! And they do it in the name of "christianity" which is just a cover for people to act poorly.

Just for laughs...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omApdPl0ovI

Seuss!

Went to see "Seussical the Musical" put on by the talented Henry Players...fabulous!!! Mimi and George went with us and they loved it!! Can't tell by the look on G's face in each picture, but we all had fun!!

The Mayor of Whoville and his wife.


Horton!


Jill Bird Lady


The Cat in the Hat!

Question...

This has been bothering me for some time...
Why do some parents think that bullying is the way to raise their children?
Name calling...
Corporal punishment...
Yelling...
Humiliation...
After reading one of the best books EVER, "Nineteen Minutes" by Jodi Picoult, I realize even more that children are fragile. When a parent or adult they look up to or love, beats them down again and again, their self esteem will be demolished and they will lash out in violent ways--either against themselves or someone else.
Telling your child s/he is "stupid" or "dumb" or a "moron" just hurts. Perhaps YOU, the parent, are the moron.
My favorite is the parent who uses the word "retarded" to bully kids. It doesn't get lower...
I guess the real question is: if you don't have it in you to simply LOVE your children and show this love with your words and actions, why the heck did you have kids in the first place??

Kidisms Part ??

Jason just came in and told me that he was teaching Mimi some Chinese words at bedtime and George yelled from the other room, "Stop talking like that! I only speak Georgia!"

Yesterday, Mimi asked me if baby bees could make honey in the "honey house."

George said on the way home from dance class yesterday that he wold be "so much mad" if Natan had his R2D2. So much mad, indeed!

Braggin' a little...

Today, the Children's and Youth Choirs that I lead presented a powerful and fabulous Palm Sunday program. They always do a great job, but the tone of this one was different, and they NAILED it! I am proud and bragging!

Someone told me awhile ago that "not every child has the right to be in a volunteer children's church choir." (not exact quote, but close enough!)

Pause for expected laughter.

Isn't that the most ridiculous and arrogant thing you've ever heard?? It's also sad. For someone to think that a Volunteer Children's Church Choir should be exclusive...if it didn't make me sick, I would likely laugh along with you!
I have lots of different kids in choir--some behave, some don't always...some can sing on pitch, some cannot. My goal is to create a safe and fun environment for the kids to develop an appreciation--and hopefully love--of choral music. I tolerate a lot because I know that all children are different (yeah...here's where that Master's degree and basically having a brain come in handy!). I see them once a week for an hour at best. I am not a yeller and I do not resort to humiliation. It's wrong as a leader, teacher, and especially a parent.
So, yes, any child is welcome in my choir. There are lots of auditioned children's choirs in our area that are exclusive...I like mine.

And, KUDOS to all the great kids today--and thanks. You rock!

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A Letter to My Friend

Dear Anonymous,
My apologies that I have not blogged recently.
Lazy? No. Busy? I suppose. Nothing to say? Never!
I have a lot to say, but not enough time to write!!
How about a sneak peak:
1. Bullying (by parents towards their own kids and by kids to other kids)...stemming from a recent incident reported to me and also a great book I am reading.
2. School shootings vs. war vs. abortion (again, based on this latest book)
3. Kidisms (they happen so frequently, I cannot possibly write them down fast enough!) but I will try!
4. Our upcoming sojourns with Nana "from here to there, from everywhere..."
5. The upcoming ruin of the family name as soon as my sister sees a needle within three feet of her on her surgery day--it will not be pretty!! (Note to self: Buy stock in Valium NOW).
6. Republicans (just kidding--why waste time!!!!!!!!) Insert evil laugh.
Much love from your blogger friend...

Probably shouldn't repeat this, but...(P-word mentioned!)

It's barely 8 a.m., and this is the conversation I overhear in the sun room (we seem to be on a roll!)

Mimi: George, you really need to go wee wee.
George: I know.
Mimi: Mama!! George has to go wee wee because his penis is big!
(OK, at this point, really--what would YOU say?)
Mommy: George, go wee wee. What's wrong with it?
George: Oh, it just gets bigger and then it gets smaller.
Mommy: Why? Is it broken?
George: No, it gets big because I eat my carrots and trees...
Mommy: You need to put a leash on it.
George: No I don't! I just need to go wee wee!

DON'T JUDGE ME!!! It's a rainy Friday with nothing to do but make up fun!!!! Hi jinx abound!
Oh, and trees are what we call broccoli!
Good morning, Celeste Anonymous! Hope this made your day!

Kidisms...

George: "Vinny sure is getting to be a big boy."

Mimi (said out of the blue while driving home from the doctor's): "Remember, mama? The place we went for hot chocolate with SaSa and Dane?" (I responded, Huh?? to which SHE said like a 13-year old) "Well, YOU weren't there, Mama...just SaSa, Dane and me and Georgie." (What she was remembering was "one time in Canada" when my sister and bro-in-law took the two to Tim Horton's for hot chocolate--IN NOVEMBER!!!!!!) All this random thought!

Natan: (I am NOT making this up) Walked up to me today, pulled his pants down, showed "it" to me and said, "Wook, Mommy--it's a penis!" (Yes, indeed!)

Hyenas:
In our twenty-five minute drive to the doctor's office today, George and Mimi asked literally a million questions about hyenas.
Why do they live in Efiopia?
What does a hyena sound like?
Are there hyenas in Georgia? (George)
Are there hyenas in Chinese? (Mimi)
Why do they eat people?
Did they eat Natan?
Was Natan in his Mommy's tummy and that's why they didn't eat him?
Was Natan in your tummy?
Why don't hyenas just eat grass? (Mimi)
Did they eat all the cows?
Did Natan sleep with the cows?
When I was a little boy in Georgia, I had hyenas. (George)
I answered every question, and yes, I made a hyena sound as best I could!

Playing "I Spy" in doctor's office, Mimi said, on her turn, "I spy with my little eye...something brown." We couldn't guess it and she told us, "Natan!"

That's all I can think of---but there is SO much more!

Good times...

Natan pooped on the potty yesterday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
OK, so you're not impressed. For those few of you who know how potent his poops are (Carly, Samantha, Mum, Jason!), you understand my elation! He came to the patio door, said, "Mommy--poop potty" and walked right in and did the deed! Yay!!! It still smells worse than anything I have ever smelled in my life, and yes, I did feel my gag reflex kick in and I almost vomited, but YAY!!! He pooped in the potty!!!!

Sweet Girl...

Tonight at bedtime...
We were talking about nice people and mean people (don't know why!) and friends. Somehow the subject of Jason being my best friend came up. They were pleased to hear that he is my "bestest" friend (just like Franklin and Bear!!!). Then, Mimi said:
"But what about your kids? They're SO sweet!!!!!"
Damn straight they're sweet! I then said that she and the boys are even more special than friends because they are my kids. Can't be both.

Also...Jason's musical is FINALLY over this weekend--yay!! I'm taking G and M along with Sally to see it on Sunday. On that note, we have now watched Charlie and the Chocolate Factory so many times to pass long evenings away (staying up too late waiting for Daddy to come home), that we all know--all three big kids AND Mom--the "Squirrel/Garbage Chute" dance. We are certified--or certifiable--Oompa Loompas!!! No, Anonymous: No pictures of that!!! But there are new pics from Dauset Trails posted. Kind of lame, considering how much fun we had!!

Funnies

Mimi: Tanta Barbara asked if she would come spend the night sometime in the summer. Mimi answered, "Yes, but I have to go to the Olympics first."

George: I was putting the train track together AGAIN last night. George walked around in circles, hands on hips, saying, "You can do this, Mommy. You're doing a good job. Don't get frustrated."
Then, he promptly sat down, put his head in his hands and exclaimed, "I am SO pissed up."
I asked him what "pissed up" meant and he said, "Oh...I'm just grumpy and I'm pissed up about it."
Awesome.
And yes, we got the train back together only to have Vinny come along and destroy it. Gee, where did he learn that from????

Randomizing...

Yesterday: Spent the afternoon with Papa Tom and Tanta Barbara on the Northside...always a trip down memory lane, driving around our old stomping ground...
Made a stop at the Trader Joe's off Abernathy and saw MANY changes from when we lived there--Jason's Dad's work is long gone and replaced with gorgeous condos!!. The Roswell trader Joe's is clearly not used to toddlers and babies--Vinny started whimpering a bit and they literally threw crap at us to "quieten him!" Down here, no one would even notice a crying baby!!
Anyhoo...on the ride up (75N), we saw a car in the HOV lane with a blown out tire, but he WOULDN'T PULL HIS CAR OVER--he just kept driving in the HOV lane...so now Mimi and George know a new word, as we nearly rear ended him around a curve.
On the way home, we passed a flattened motorcycle and fresh roadkill--no police had shown up yet. I am going to pass judgement here: Motorcycles show a person's true stupidity. People who ride always say, "It's other cars who are dangerous, not us on the bikes." Yes, I'm sure the human roadkill we saw was thinking that as he was thrown through the air to meet his death.
Our kids will not ride motorcycles as long as they live here. They know that. they have had intense fear placed regarding the outcome of getting on a bike. It's just stupid (immature word, but it fits).
Leave the roadkill to well deserving squirrels. Seriously.

Veggie Time

Meaning for me, not eating vegetables, but sitting here in my studio, breeze coming in through he door, husband in the sun room having quiet time, and all four kids asleep thanks to said husband.
I was reading through some old postings and am so glad I decided to start this blog. I would never sit and write in a journal (for no reason in particular). But, in these quiet moments, I can reflect on things--good and bad-- that happen day to day.
Hmmm...a cup of coffee would compliment this moment quite nicely.
But that would mean getting up.
And moving.
Oh, bother.

Pool's Open!

For some, today is the first day of swimming. Jason jumped in! Vinny screeched each time he did it, not in a cutie sort of way, but in a deathly fearful kind of way! He did NOT like seeing Jason under water.
The rest of us, who are not insane, stood poolside and watched! Very refreshing!

New found fun!

Thanks Celeste and Cheryl!
We found Dauset Trails yesterday (totally missed it on Sunday!!) and had a blast! Three dollars of fish feeding a very fat fish...saw lots of animals and birds...heard/saw a chicken laying an egg (sounded JUST like my sister's imitation so I knew exactly what was happening!).

Mimi became obsessed with why each bird or animal was at the park--especially the one-winged hawk who fell off his branch when he tried to fly. OBSESSED. Now she has added rescuing the entire world's population of animals to her list of things to do right after going to the 'Lympics!

Best Spring Break ever...(OK, second only to our break in Spain/England many moons ago!)

Updates

George: They couldn't get the Cardiac Anesthesiologist--he was tied up. So from now on, George has to go in as a day surgery patient for all procedures...breathing tube...the whole nine yards.

Natan: Has a blood clot in one ear and the ear tube is almost touching his ear drum. The other ear tube has fallen out--doctor said all this is normal. Looking at another tube surgery in the near future. He said there is no point starting speech until the ears are taken care of and we can get an accurate hearing test.

Had a nice message from a former coworker regarding Autism...going to look into whatever we can start doing in that area.

Sigh...

Jason celebrated the beginning of his week off with a day at Indian Springs State Park with us today. Awesome! (Pictures uploaded in March 2009). We walked around for a solid three hours until we could walk no more!
Busy day tomorrow: George to Egelston for his tri-monthly MRI (I do not usually worry about them, but I feel a twinge or something over tomorrow...maybe just mommy jitters because Jason is taking him and not me?)
Meanwhile, I'll be at the ENT with the other three kiddos while we begin Natan's stuff. First, check the ears again. See the audiologist there. Then, we can work with school or not, depending on his hearing and "how delayed" he is--schools' words, not mine. May have them look at Vinny's ears while we're there since he's on ear infection Number Three in two months!
I need junk food--MUST NOT GIVE IN!!!!!!!

Wow!!!

Check this out:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2FSnalrPYpc

Seriously???

A "professional" suggested today that Natan enter a pre-k program or daycare to be with other children. She has never met us, and we only spoke on the phone for a few minutes.
So...once again, going on a mother's intuition, I called the ENT and have an appointment Monday afternoon.
Daycare, indeed!!!!!!!
I wish government types would be more supportive of parents who choose to educate their kids at home. Not all of us are planning on doing it because we want to protect our children from others or for religious reasons (egad!!). Some of us just love being with our kids, don't mind the extra stress, and are even qualified (I think a graduate education degree holds some water here) to teach. I'm not saying it will always be the right fit for us, but for now, it is.
My biggest fear with starting to deal with some of Natan's issues were that the people I would have to work with would be "anti-home school" and I really hope this is not the case...
Yes, he has specific, diagnosed delays...
Yes, I realize he may fall somewhere on the spectrum of Autism...
Can I handle it??
He's my kid. Damn straight I can.

The Things!

We were invited by our friend, Angie, to read a Dr. Seuss book to her Kindergarten class today. Since we were reading, "The Cat in the Hat," Mimi and George dressed as "Thing 1" and "Thing 2."
We had a blast! They were w sweet, sweet group of kids!!

Why Blog?

Someone recently asked me "Why do you blog?"
It started as a way to post pictures and kid stories for my Mum, sister, and Aunt. People around here found it and at times it gets passed on. I do not link it to my church or to my piano business. I warn those who ask me for the address that they can read it but they cannot use it against me or get mad at me. Someone even said "I disagree with 75% of what you write but I still like you" I think she is a closet liberal who uses my blog to purge her soul (tee! hee! She'll get me for that I hope!!!!)
Anyway, I love the world of blogging. I would never use a person's name in a negative way, because that's not right. Perhaps I step over the line, but what is the point of living here if we cannot exercise our right to free speech?
I am not a confrontational person. I usually do not choose to "hang out" with confrontational people because they simply are too exhausting to be around! People have walked over me for years, but I rarely say the things that are on my mind because I know how it feels to have my feelings hurt by tactless people. If people blogged instead of spouted, the world would be more pleasant. We could just ignore those particular blogs!
Sometimes I vent about things that happen to other people that I think are unfair. I blog about stuff that happens when I am out with the kids. As I have said before, there is always someone who feels it is their responsibility to criticize my family...out of ignorance, of course.
As I have always said, no one is holding your hand on your mouse and forcing you to click the button to link to this blog. If you don't like it, don't read it!
Blogging can be therapeutic. I recommend it to all.
That's why I blog.

Ahhhhh...

What a great day! Even though I once again faced a sleepless night and now have the headache that comes with lack of sleep, I am ecstatic that Jason has a snow day! Good thing, since our road is completely iced over!
George and Mimi were up and outside first thing, but George came in and was very upset that "all my snow has turned to ice!" Science 101!
Here's a grateful list for today:
1. Snow (with a side of hot coffee).
2. Jason, Mum, and Sally who never tell me to "get over it" and listen patiently and offer their undying support.
3. Dudley & Dorothy--just 'cause! (Also, see above!)
4. Did I mention snow???
5. As always, my four fabulous, wild, and wonderful children.

Our snowman is still standing, but I dread the moment when he melts and I have to deal with three very sad kiddos...

SNOW!!

Since this blog is intended mainly for my Canadian posse...WE HAVE SNOW!!!!!! Not wimpy, girly-girl, southern snow, but REAL SNOW!!!!! I have just finished uploading umpteen photos of our snowy day fun--hopefully they'll be online tomorrow. We made a kick-butt snowman, had a snowball fight, and Natan ate snow--we finally found something he can eat!!!!!! Funny thing is, it will be back up to 70 degrees by Saturday!
Jason decided Brownies were in order, so that's pretty much what dinner was. Means I'll have to add an extra mile or so to my run tomorrow....blah. Bathing suit season approaches!!!!!
I really should be in bed, but I have not been sleeping lately and it seems rather pointless to lie in bed wide awake. Ho hum.

More random kid stuff...

George while talking to Jason on the phone, ignoring George who was repeating his question to me:
"Mama...Mommy...MOMMY...do you have ears?" (I say this a lot to any one of our kids!)

Mimi today driving in the car:
"Mama, where is baby Win?"
Me: "He's at school."
Mimi: "Does he go to Baby School?"
Me: "Yes, i guess he does."
Mimi after a moment: "That would be funny!"
(No idea what brought Baby Win up--see?? Completely random!!)

Natan sang "Frosty the Snowman" at Walmart today--loudly.

Highly random...

This morning...kids were watching PBS (the only thing they are allowed!) and I hear the excited yells that always happen when a certain someone appears on the screen (not Barney, or Calliou, or any one you would imagine)...

George & Mimi: "Mama! Mama! It's Barack Obama!"

George: "That's the President, Mimi...that's the President."

Mimi: "I want to watch this 'cause...I love him."

(Young Liberals!)

My question/vent for today:

When looking at a website selling bathing suits "for every shape and size" I clicked on the section for suits designed for "small busts." Up popped (literally) 72 pictures of large boobs in tiny tops. 

I can't catch a break. When I say "small busted" I meant "SMALL BUSTED!!!" I don't mean "silicone" or "Double D" or even "B Cup!"

Say NO to drugs:

We watched a National geographic show on Meth addiction this afternoon--and let the kids watch with us. It hit home. Now, George walks around yelling: "You bad! No drugs!" and then telling us that you will "get dead" by drugs.

Mimi was silenced by the pictures of the people "making bad choices." She was quick to notice that all the images of the people addicted looked angry or ugly. 

So...we got that little lesson out of the way. 

Natan:

I am taking a new approach to people who show their ignorance by judging before getting the facts, or even judging incorrectly with the facts. 

Yes, Natan has a loud, high pitched scream. 

Natan cannot hear in his right ear. At all. 

Natan is not necessarily ignoring those who speak to him. Sometimes he actually does not hear.

Natan is developmentally delayed. I treat him differently because of this and will not apologize for it, even if certain people think I let him away with too much. Screw you.  

I don't care if you are a stranger, relative, or friend...if you pick on Natan--MY SON-- I will tear you up one side and down the other. For no other reason than you are being a bully. And I don't like bullies. 

Oh...yeah...

For those wondering about a burial for Larry (yes, some have inquired!)...he's still boxed up in our freezer.
Please don't judge. If you've ever dug a 4-foot deep hole in Georgia clay, you know why I am waiting for Jason to do it this weekend.
As for Stanley...he has become the perfect dog. I think I misread grief which was actually relief. Turns out Stanley wanted to be top dog and I don't think he was in fact attached to Larry. He is the sweetest guy! Sleeping with us...never in his crate unless we have to go out...sitting...not jumping all over us...as much as I was sad over Larry, I can't help but wonder if this was some divine dogly plan...
Now there's something I can believe in!!!!!

Disclaimer...

I think I may have offended someone I actually like with one of my recent blogs.
To clarify:
I realize that I slammed mothers who work outside the home. Keep in mind that it was a reaction to yet another woman criticizing me just because I do not. Rather than blurt out the first thing that comes into my head in those situations, I choose to blog. Those women say things to me in person that are very demeaning. I won't do that because it's hurtful.
To those I offended, I apologize if you felt I attacked you personally. The people I refer to are usually strangers or people that I know but do not consider any more than acquaintances.

On a lighter note...I love Fridays!
6:30--I convinced the two older ones to snuggle until 7:00, and we made it to 6:45. Why is the bed most comfortable in the last fifteen minutes you're in it??
7:00-8:00--Enjoyed breakfast with M, G, and N while Vinny (now being called 'Tater" by George) slept.
8:00-9:00--worked on our letters and numbers. George thinks it's funny to call every letter "H" which is yet another reason I need to home school...I really can't expect a teacher to think things are funny the way a mom would!!
9:00-10:00--Made heart cookies to hand out to our dance teachers tomorrow. Also made some "freestyle" cookies for Daddy. One looks phallic--should I be concerned??
10:00-11:00--went for a walk down the road and back. Saw "Grandpa", our elderly neighbor from around the corner. Luckily he loves the kids and loves that they jump on him for hugs!!
11:00-12:00-ran on the treadmill while kids sucked up Barney and Caillou.
12:00-1:00--picnic outside for lunch. Getting ready to send three biggies for nap--Vinny went down around noon.
Tonight is pizza and movie night since Dad's still working late. Another Friday of Star Wars. It's sad that I speak Jedi...

Squabbling...

Correct me if I am wrong, but I think I may be the only person in the world, or at least in North America who overheard THIS argument between Mimi and George today:

Mimi: "My China Mommy lives in Chinese. That's far away."
George: "Well, my Georgia Daddy lives in Georgia, and that's very far away."

Thus began the debate (which lasted surprisingly long, considering the subject matter), regarding which Mommy/Daddy lived the furthest away.

Also, a shout out to Claudette...thanks for the email about a recent post--appreciate the encouraging words!

Kiddo Stuff

George: "Happy Valentimes, Mommy..."

Mimi: "Mama...can we start to decycle?" (pretty sure she means "recycle" but one never knows...!)

Natan: "I found the chicken!!!!!!" (really saying, "I found the ticket" but hey--that's where we're at! It's a line from the Polar Express movie).

Vinny Update: on a second round of some serious antibiotics (really pleased about that...) for a back to back ear infection. Dr. said perhaps it's time for ear tubs. Bring it on!

George Update: No soccer or heavy running until they check his lungs for any possible damage caused by his arteries. Dance is fine...good thing he looks good in a tutu!!!!!

Oh yeah...and it's 70 degrees in Georgia! Jonquils spotted daily!!!

Been wanting to blog this for awhile...

I am sure to offend with this one, but--how many times A WEEK am I offended by this and say nothing!!!!
To all of you "working moms" (which, by the way, I am one of, since I work my tail off all day, from the moment my and my kids' feet hit the floor until I fall into bed late at night), please do not say: "Oh...I just don't know HOW you do it...I could NEVER stay home all day with my kid(s)--I'd be so bored..."
WHAT???
My response to you: "I don't know how YOU do it--I could NEVER leave my kids in the care of someone else--stranger, friend, or relative--day after day. I would feel like a failure..."

Most people who say that to me work because they want stuff. They want a fancy house, nice car, great vacations, etc. We have a nice, simple home that we are filling with memories made by our kids. We drive practical and inexpensive vehicles. We vacate to my Mom's house where the lodging is free. We wear hand me downs and shop almost always at Wal Mart. That is how we do it on Jason's salary.
There may be a few out there who HAVE to work, but not the folks that talk to me. They are judgmental about the choice I make to stay home, and I think it comes from their own feelings of guilt. I know this because they actually say these things to me and do not consider that what they are saying is offensive. If I gave more of a crap, it would even hurt my feelings. But...I am too busy watching my children grow up, enjoying the thousand of hugs and kisses I receive a day, and not cramming everything into two or three hours at night and weekends to waste my time on useless people.
Tomorrow's plan: Playing all day outside in this gorgeous weather (with a nap break for the kiddos), hanging with Sally, and whatever the hell else we fancy. COST: Nothing. You can have all your fancy stuff. I love my children. They are worth more than gold. Can you say the same??

Four beautiful reasons to stay home...

Larry...

Larry Montague...April 14, 2006-February 5, 2009

Mimi: "What are we going to do with Larry?"
Me: "We are going to dig a big hole and we'll bury him in the garden."
Mimi: "...like a treasure?"