The Italian Bella Diaries

Letters to Crazy People

2012-01-17T09:40:00.001-06:00

Dear Fotki,
   I can assure you that while looking at my belly pics from the twins, I will not be wanting it on a mug or T-shirt. Not the best time to show me what it will look like on the side of the screen. How many women walk around with their formerly pregnant bellies on their t-shirt? Yeah, that's what I thought. It's a cool feature you got going on there when I'm looking at say, my kids' adorable little faces. But, preggo bellies? Eh, not so much.

Sincerely,
The Woman Who Saved her Belly Pics on your site

**
Dear Friend on Facebook,
    Please listen to me very closely when I say this. You are making a fool of yourself with your statuses. Please believe me when I say that you are sounding mighty childish. If you want to be treated as an adult, then please by all means act like one. And really think about what you say before you type it out. What sounded good in say middle or high school doesn't sound proper when you're in the real world.

Sincerely,
Your Friend Who Cares

PS - No ring keeps a person from cheating. So, just cause he put a ring on it, don't mean he's gonna be faithful to it. Just remember you got him while he had a ring on another girl's finger. Get mad. But, the truth hurts.
**
Dear Crazy Chick on the West Coast,
    Your kids are fine. Stop trying to get sympathy by claiming there is something wrong with them. Why wish a diagnosis on your child that would hinder them for the rest of their life? Oh, and your updates sound like they are taken straight from a medical website. Please, dear God, stop!

Sincerely,
The Beotch that Busted your Crazy A$$ a few years ago
**
Dear Other Crazy Chick on the West Coast,
   I am very, very confused as to what your problem is. Really. I am. So please just stop bragging about your "vacations" and your meals while you feed your kids next to nothing. And since you're "fixed" I'm guessing you're not pregnant. Stop worrying us with that jibberish. And get your man out the bedroom. Is he like permanantly stuck in there or something? Oh and please stop changing your email address. My block filter is getting confused.

Sincerely,
The Girl who is Sick of your Mess
**
Dear Yelp,
   Please do not send me any more emails that have the subject "Get Veg'ucated With Yelp". I have no idea what that means. I have never heard of the word Veg'ucated. Are you going to educate me on being a vegan? Good luck. Not gonna happen. Please stick with emails titled "Hot spots in DC", etc. I understand that. Oh, better yet. Just stop sending me the emails becuase I deleted the Yelp App like a week after I downloaded it!

Going to search for the "Remove Me" link in your email,
The Android User who didn't like your App
(*NOTE - Found the link*)

52 Weeks of ME!! #2

2012-01-08T17:18:00.001-06:00

This was kind of just for me and kind of for school. All my textbooks are e-books so, I wanted something more than my computer to read them on. So, I bought a Kindle Fire.

Photo from the Web

Ironically, when the Kindle and Nook first came out, I was deadset on never owning one! I'm one who loves to feel a book in my hand and fiddle around with the pages as I read. However, the Kindle Fire is a tad different. It's not just an e-reader. It has my twitter, facebook, web favorites, and more.

So, now I have a new little gadget to play around with. And it's all mine!

*Disclaimer: I was not reimbursed in any way by Amazon. I have never been contacted by Amazon. In fact, this wasn't even supposed to be a review. LOL*

I Confess.... Homesickness and Loans and More!

2012-01-08T15:04:00.001-06:00

I confess.... this was supposed to be a Friday Confessions hosted by Mamarazzi. But, I got side tracked several times and never got the post done. Better late than never, I guess!

I confess.... that Friday was Epiphany. And therefore the start of the Carnival season in New Orleans and other parts of the Gulf Coast. Which means another Mardi Gras season that I am not in Louisiana for. My extreme homesickness has returned.

I confess.... that I am really upset that I am 900 miles from New Orleans during Carnival Season. This means King Cakes are not readily available to me. Anyone who knows me, knows these are my downfall...

Photo from the web

I confess... that I am nervous about having to take out student loans to finish college. I knew the day would come when I would have to. But, the thought of putting myself into so much debt terrifies me!

I confess.... that one of my good friends told me about a Cupbrookie. This has to be the dessert equivalent of a Turducken (chicken stuffed in a duck stuffed in a turkey). Anyhow, a Cupbrookie is a cookie inside of a brownie inside a cupcake. Sugar.Rush!

Photo courtesy of Betty Crocker

I confess.... that I am OVER THE MOON that the Saints beat the Lions in the playoffs.

I confess.... that I am now addicted to the show Dance Moms. It is a trainwreck, let me tell you! But, I can't turn away...

Everything Happens For A Reason...

2012-01-05T11:24:00.000-06:00

Picture it. It's North Carolina. December 23, 2011.

Yes, I just totally started my post like a Sophia story from Golden Girls. I <3 that show.

Anyways, it was December 23, 2011 and I had finished the bulk of my Christmas shopping. I was in Target picking up my last minute odds and ends. I decided to browse the toy section because hey, you never know when you might find a deal. I was perusing the doll section when this doll caught my eye.

Photo from the Target website

I immediately said, "Carly would LOVE this!" Chris gave in and the doll made her way into our cart. Santa set her out on Christmas, Carly saw her and, just as I had suspected, loved it. The story could end there, but really, then its kind of boring.

After we had opened every.single.toy the kids got, Carly walked over to me with this book that came with this doll.

All I had to do was read the cover. This doll's name was Ashley Rose. How ironic. You see, many moons ago... Ok, actually around this time in 2002, I was pregnant with a set of twins. I lost one at 13 weeks gestation due to Vanishing Twin Syndrome/miscarriage. The other one was born 10 days after her due date. We named her Carolyn aka Carly. I had named her twin - Ashleigh Rose. So, me selecting this particular doll, without even noticing the name, was indeed ironic. Carly is now 9. She knows that she had a twin that didn't survive early pregnancy. And she often questions me about her. A long time ago I did some research about Vanishing Twin Syndrome and it reported that some survivng twins often feel like part of them is missing. I have always felt that Carly was that way.

Carly and her doll, Ashley Rose

So, everything does happen for a reason. Including seeing a doll and instantly knowing that a particular child would love it without even knowing why.

52 Weeks of ME!!!!

2012-01-01T14:07:00.001-06:00

I'm starting a new tradition on each Sunday. It's called 52 Weeks of Me! My goal is to do something special, just for me, each week. It can be something as simple as spending an hour alone on the treadmill. Or something huge as getting my hair done.

For week #1, I am getting my nails done. Well, I am actually getting them done on Monday, but I'm still considering it as Week 1. I'll post pictures of it next Sunday.

Here is a picture of my nails that I had done a few weeks ago in honor of my New Orleans Saints. I wasn't happy with the length; I thought they were too long.

Goodbye 2011..... Hello 2012!

2011-12-31T21:45:00.000-06:00

There were some parts of 2011 that weren't too bad. I am grateful for my health. I am grateful for healthy children.

2011 ended up being an expensive year for me. Both financially and emotionally. We had vehicle repairs of $1500. This led to more expenses to compensate for not having our vehicle for a time. We remained in Maryland, which I hate. We moved cities within Maryland. I emotionally took a blow during July - October that hit me so hard, I didn't know if I could ever recover from it. There was another incident in November that once again rocked me emotionally.

In 2011, my kids turned 1, 13, 9, 6 and 4. I came to the realization that my baby was no longer a baby. He was becoming an independent little boy. I came to the realization that my oldest child was no longer a child. She was becoming a young woman.

My husband switched jobs. This meant packing up and leaving Maryland -- for North Carolina. Not my precious Louisiana, but getting closer. Surprisingly, I find myself missing parts of Maryland. I miss some of the stores and such.

In 2011, I switched majors in college. I had been working towards an Associates degree in Accounting. The Spring 2011 semester is where I switched majors to pursue an Associates in Social Sciences with a concentration in Psychology. I fell in love with Psychology! My Fall 2011 semester resulted in straight A's and being named on the Dean's List.

I'm trying to be optimistic that 2012 will be a fantastic year! I start out with so much optimism, which gradually diminishes.

I'm looking forward to some stability. Both financially as well as job. Previously, my husband's job was all over the radar. He never knew where he would end up. With this new job, we should be in the Charlotte area of North Carolina for an extended period of time. Although my ultimate goal is to get back to Louisiana. :)

On the school front, I have some big developments in the works. I am not announcing them until all my I's are dotted and T's crossed. But, it is a big thing for me! Of course, though, I am looking forward to many more A's and pulling my GPA up. I am ashamed to say that because of my lack of ability in Accounting, my GPA was bad. But, with Psychology I am pulling it up tremendously! My goal is to finish my degree with at least a 3.6 GPA.

In relation to the kids schooling, I just joined a home schooling group in my area. My group in Louisiana totally rocked! The downfall of that is that it's hard to find others that compare! The one I just joined seems like it's similar and I really hope so! Looking forward to field trips and other outings with them.

I also looked up the NBA schedule and my beloved New Orleans Hornets are coming to play Charlotte in April. I am really trying to go to this game. I have loved the Hornets since they were in Charlotte! Also, my New Orleans Saints play the Panthers in Charlotte once a season. That is also a goal for 2012 - to see my precious Saints live on the field again. The Miami Hurricanes football team is also coming to NC to play the Duke Blue Devils. Ready. To. Go.

I guess in a way, the above could be viewed as a "2012 Bucket List". They're not really resolutions, but things I want to see in 2012.

As for "true resolutions", I have a few. I always say I don't make them because I usually don't keep them. I really need to lose some weight. While people cannot believe I have 7 kids, I am not happy with my weight personally. It is something I want to work on for me. I currently have access to a treadmill 24/7. I should be on it everyday. I also have access to a free membership for a 24/7 gym. I should be in it.

I have never been much a snacker. In fact, 99.9% of snacks consumed by me are only when Chris is around for an extended period of time. In 2012, I need to eliminate all unhealthy snacking. I also need to stop drinking soda and make my meal portion sizes smaller.

In 2012, I need to keep my grades a priority.

How was your 2011? What are you looking forward to in 2012?

WWTKW: It's Time For A New Year!

2011-12-28T18:11:00.000-06:00

I'm back to What We Want To Know Wednesday after a 4 month blog hiatus! The hosts for this blog party are the wonderful Mamarazzi, Queso and Crazymama.

This week's questions come from the lovely Queso:

{1} What was the best part of 2011?
       2011 was a very rough year for me. Well, from July - October anyway. The best part of the year was probably me making straight A's this semester in college.

{2} What do you look forward to in 2012?
       Stability. And hopefully my first Saints game next season when they come to Carolina. Although since the schedule isn't out yet, that very well could be January 2013. Who knows....

{3} Do you actually keep your New Year resolutions?
      Nope. I even once said that my resolution was to not make any resolutions. Then I realized that I even broke that one just by making it....

{4} What are your top 3 resolutions for the new year?
       Well, since I have to make 3:
          * Lose weight and get healthy.
          * Organize things better.
          * Blog a little more frequently. (You know, a little more than once every 4 months....)

{5} Do you have any fun new years traditions or plans?
      Nope. Never any plans. I'll be lucky if I'm still awake at midnight.

Shopping for the Impossible!

2011-12-21T08:20:00.000-06:00

It's December. Christmas-time. My kids hand me their yearly "What I Want" list. See, here we go by a rhyme. Each child gets "Something they want, something they need, something to wear and something to read". Connor is by far the easiest to shop for. We never had to buy all boy stuff before; the chance now is welcoming. The 2 sets of twins listed barbies and doll babies: Piece of Cake. The 9 year old is also easy: "Whatever you get me, Mama, is fine." Then I get to the 13 year old's list. Her "Something I Want" list contains one item:

Image courtesy of the Web

Uhhhh???? I tell her "Sorry, try again! Kidnapping is not on my agenda!" She comes back a few hours later with a revised list.

Something to wear:

Image courtesy of NFL Shop

Something to read:

Image courtesy of the web

We are in North Carolina so Denver jerseys aren't a big item here. So, off to online shopping I go. Jersey = $85! While Chris is sitting there saying, "If it's what she wants...", I have images of the 1990 NKOTB dancing through my head. They were my teenage crushes for oh about 9 months. I veto the jersey and instead find this shirt for $20 including shipping.

Image courtesy of NFL Shop

Pair it with some jeans and her something to wear is done! Besides, she's getting $100 from family. If she wants to spend it all on a jersey herself, then more power to her. Then, I get the dreaded email - "Thank you for your purchase. However, your item is on BACKORDER. It will ship out as soon as possible." AGHHHHH!!!!!

Off in search of the book. Walmart - None. Target - None. Kmart - None. Pull up GPS and find a Barnes and Noble 10 minutes away. Walk in and we start looking. Not in Inspirational. Not in Sports. Not in Football. Finally find an employee and he takes us straight to a center aisle display. Now, why didn't I think to check those? Buy the book. Shew.... Found something.

But, we're still stuck trying to figure out what else to get her. So, we're watching TV last Saturday and they play a show called "Tim Tebow: Everything In Between".

Image courtesy of the web

She's mesmerized. And it's available to buy. Back to Internet searching I go. Walmart - None. Walmart website - Backordered. Amazon - Backordered. Best Buy - Backordered. But, their site says I can order it and pick it up in store. Ok. Order it. Get an email back - None found at this store. Barnes and Noble - Backordered. Ughhhhh!!!!!!!

Then I remember he was on a NCAA Football Xbox game cover.

Image courtesy of web

We find a pre-owned copy at Game Stop. We pick that up.

And she's just gonna have to deal with it because she isn't the easiest to shop for!

** Side Notes: The shirt did ship out today and should arrive by Thursday. We are planning to get the DVD whenever we find it! **

Music Monday: Louisiana!

2011-12-19T18:01:00.000-06:00

Guess who's back?!?! It's been a long while since I posted a blog. We have had A LOT going on. I will be updating in a later post. Right now, I am starting my weekly memes back up. My Music Monday is supposed to be a song that reminds me of somwhere.

Back in Summer 2009 when I returned to Louisiana, this song was ALWAYS on the radio. Now, every time I hear it, all I think of is Louisiana.

Adapted from the 30 Day Song Challenge

We Want To Know Wednesday #4

2011-08-17T21:15:00.000-05:00

I'm linking up with We Want To Know Wednesday hosted by Mamarazzi and Alicia AKA Queso.

These questions are from Mamarazzi and she wants to know all about our childhood...

{1} Did you live in the same town or move around a lot as a child?

I lived in the same area for 30 years. We moved around to different houses frequently, but I never had to change schools or anything. My mother just liked to move; I think she has a problem.

{2} What were your parents like?
I lived with both of my parents until I was 9. My dad was out in his own world. I wouldn't say neglectful or anything. He just didn't spend much time home. My mom was strict and rigid. You knew what was expected of you and you best do whatever you had to in order to achieve it. After they split up, I never saw my dad. My mom was the same. Actually worse as hard as that is to imagine.

{3} Do you have any siblings? What were they like growing up?
I have two older half sisters from my mom's first marriage. They didn't live with us so I only saw them on holidays and weekends. I idolized them. I have one younger brother; same parents. We had the typical sibling relationship. He was the annoying little brother.

{4} Share a short story from your childhood.
Hmmmm.... I really try not to remember much of my childhood. I remember when I was younger, maybe around 3, I was with my dad, uncle and granddaddy at my grandparent's house. My mom, grandma and aunt had gone to a wedding or something. But, there was a thunderstorm and lightening struck the second story and caught the house on fire. I was traumatized. I am still terrified of thunderstorms. For years after that incident, I would pack all my favorite stuff in a backpack and wear it during storms in case our house caught on fire and we had to run out.

{5} What did you look like? (share a childhood pic for a chance to win a prize)

Me as a baby:

Me as a child:

Where I've Been....

2011-08-04T19:18:00.000-05:00

I have been MIA from blog world for the last week. I was going to participate in WWTKW yesterday but the questions didn't speak to me. In all reality, I had a family problem to take care of. This particular family problem has had me thinking a lot. A lot about the demons in my past. I have been writing them out on paper. With every intention of sharing them on this blog. But, after reading the first one, I decided that I was unsure if I wanted to do that. They are filled with so much raw emotion and it puts a lot of myself out there. I'm not sure if I'm ready to share that part of me with the world. I'm still having problems reading it about myself, remembering the days those demons popped into my life. I'm still writing, one at a time. And maybe one day, I can feel comfortable enough to share them.

We Want To Know Wednesday #3

2011-07-27T20:08:00.000-05:00

I'm linking up with We Want To Know Wednesday with Mamarazzi and Alicia AKA Queso

This week's questions come from Alicia AKA Queso:

{1} Who would you call if you had to get bailed out of jail?

Well, Chris naturally. Who else would come bail my crazy ass out of jail on a moment's notice? Besides he'd probably just meet me there since he would more than likely be a witness to it all.

{2} If you were a superhero what would your hero name be?
SUPERMOM! Duh! I am a stay at home mom of 7 kids, ranging from ages 13 years to 17 months. I home school them. I am in college full time studying Psychology. And I do it pretty much alone since the husband works like 80 hours a week.

{3} What do you think is one of your best qualities?
I have one of the biggest, most caring hearts ever. I will literally give you the shirt off my back if you need it. I try to help people out as much as I can. Until you betray me. Then screw you!

Photo Credit

{4} What song would you pick to be your own personal theme song?
Bitch by Meredith Brooks!

I'm a bitch, I'm a lover

I'm a child, I'm a mother

I'm a sinner, I'm a saint

I do not feel ashamed

{5} What celebrity do you think is most over rated?
KIM KARDASHIAN!!! Actually the entire family but mainly her. She is the most un-exciting of them. Yes, she is famous for absolutely nothing.

Photo Credit

Music Monday: Love

2011-07-25T14:36:00.000-05:00

This week's Music Monday is a song that reminds me of someone. This is I Love You by Celine Dion. This has been mine and Chris' song since the beginning of our relationship so it reminds me of 15 years of memories with him.

Adapted from the 30 Day Song Challenge

Rockin' The Baby! Well, in my case Babies!

2011-07-17T21:36:00.001-05:00

(Button by Jess at The Frilly Coconut)

Last month I participated in Rockin' The Bump with Shell at Things I Can't Say. This month she is hosting Rockin' The Baby.

I may be a little biased, but I think I have the 7 cutest babies in the whole wide world!

This is my oldest. She was about 10 months old in this picture. She was a little diva back then. Well, ok, she still is. She's 13 now.

This is Baby CS#2. She was 6 months old here. Today she is a wild 8 year old!

I considered doing CS#3 and CS#4 separately. But, then I saw this picture. They were 6 weeks old! I love it because CS#4 looks like she is talking away and CS#3 is asleep, ignoring her as usual! Today they are 5 years old. CS#3 is a tomboy and CS#4 is a prissy girl.

CS#5 and CS#6 are twins as well. But, I decided to do them separately because they are the exact opposite of the "2 peas in a pod" twin myth. They are both about 9 months old in these pictures. Today they are 3 years old.

CS#5 -- I love that little grin!

CS#6 -- A computer girl just like Momma!

And last but not least, we have CS#7, the baby. The only boy. He was 5 days old and coming home from the hospital. Now, he is 18 months old. Still, a little baby. At least to me.

See? I told you they were the cutest babies. Ever.

Music Monday: Song That Makes Me Sad

2011-07-04T23:15:00.000-05:00

This is the song that always makes me cry. It reminds me of my Nanny...

Twenty - one years ago today, my Nanny died. It forever changed the way I viewed the 4^th of July. A day of celebrating and family fun was now a day of sadness and grief. Every year, I keep to myself. I pretend the day doesn't exist. To me, it's just a day that I move through never allowing myself to feel anything. Now I know she wouldn't like that I do this. I know that if she were alive and saw me grieving for someone else in this manner, I'd get a good earful. She would never allow me to grieve in this way. But, fact of the matter is I was taught by my mother to hide my emotions. To never let anyone see me grieve. And so, I never properly grieved all those years ago. And it affects the way I grieve now. I am still trying to grieve her death. I'm scared to let go. Scared that if I do, then she's lost to me forever.

I usually write a letter to her each year. But, this year her memory has been with me way too much. You see, when I get really upset. Or depressed. Or confused. She becomes the big focus of my thoughts. I like to think its because I still need her advice and guidance. Well, I know I still need her advice. There's so much going on right now that I know I would value her opinion on. but, it is what it is. I am left with envisioning what she would say.

With all that is going on right now, I do need her. Desperately. And it saddens me that she isn't here. That she isn't here to hug me and reassure me. That she isn't here to see all that is happening, good and bad, with me and her family...

10 Days of BS: I'm Fine

2011-07-04T21:46:00.001-05:00

★Day 04- What do you lie about the most?★

I lie about very little. I am an open book and I tell it like it is. I feel like I shouldn't have to lie to you about anything. If your hair looks like shit, then I'm going to tell you it does. But, there is one thing I will lie about. And I do. Every. single. day. It's when I say "I'm fine." Because you know what? I'm not! I'm not fine being taken out of the place I love and brought to the East Coast. Which, I hate the East Coast. I'm not fine being stuck with my kids every single day of my life with no break. No hour for me to spend alone. No down time. I'm not fine never seeing my husband yet never seeing a paycheck worth all the time he's away. I'm not fine feeling neglected and then told I'm wrong for feeling that way. I'm not fine being told my degree means nothing because nothing will ever mean more than his job. Catch my drift? I'm not fine. Yet, I have to smile and act like nothing is wrong....

10 Days of BS: It Made Me Who I Am

2011-07-03T16:33:00.005-05:00

★Day 03- An experience you're not proud of, but has made you the person you are today.★

Wow... this is a subject that I have been dwelling on for the last few days. Because honestly, this experience randomly shows up in my head every now and then. {And I really, really apologize to my husband for this post because this is a very sore subject among us}

Back in June 2009, I started talking to this guy. Yeah, at the time I thought it was a great idea. He said all the right things. He made me fall for the lines. He then destroyed me emotionally. It took a few weeks, but I bounced back from it. I moved on. Kinda. He still stays in my mind. He still pops up front and center every now and then.

In all honesty, every so often over the last couple of years, I'd enter his name into Google. And I'd come up empty. I started to wonder if it was really all just my imagination and he never existed. Then last week, his name returned a LinkedIn profile. Complete with email address and twitter. But, I refuse to contact him. That's not what's important. I don't want him back in my life. I think it's more of a prove to myself that he was there and that I'm not missing a thing without him.

I'm not proud of being with him. For various reasons. But, it made me stronger. Made me view things differently. Made me who I am. Made me what I am.

10 Days of BS: Me and Alcohol

2011-07-01T23:08:00.002-05:00

I have decided to link up with the ★10 Days Of Bullshit Challenge★ with ★ Rockin' Mama ★! I am a day behind so I'm putting Day 1 and Day 2 together.

★Day 01- A recent photo of you with a funny caption.★

Anyone who knows me knows that there are very few, if any, pictures of me. This isn't my most recent picture, but it'll do.

"See the Wheels Grinding?"

★Day 02- How was your first experience drinking alcohol?★

I remember very little. Please note that the person involved in this will always deny their involvement. But, whatever. No need to protect yourself now.

It was June 16, 1994. Want to know how I remember that date? The next day was the infamous OJ Simpson White Bronco chase. And I was watching it. Hungover. But, anyways. Back to the story at hand.

I was 15. Just finished my sophomore year. My mom was out of town which meant my older sister stayed with us. {She was 21} She had her boyfriend and two friends over. The game to play back then was Quarters. So, my sister fixed me a Strawberry Daiquiri and we sat down and played.

Ok, except it didn't look that good. It was in a cup like this:

But, we played round after round. And I drank daiquiri after daiquiri. Until I was really, really loopy. When i couldn't stand up they decided game was over. I then proceeded to try and make up the sofa bed for my sister's friends using curtains. Yeah, didn't work out all that great! Then I slept until 11 am the next morning, had a pounding headache and swore off alcohol. That didn't last long.

Friday Confessionals -- 7/1/11

2011-07-01T22:15:00.000-05:00

I CONFESS --
   that I am tired of being my husband's "mistress". His job is his wife. I know I should be thankful that he has a job, but its hard when you never see him except to watch him sleep. I feel like a single mother most of the time.

I CONFESS --
   that lately I have been feeling really selfish. I want to do things for me. Like get my hair done, get my nails done, get a pedicure, buy some new clothes, make up, etc. I really, really want to do some things for me.

I CONFESS --
   that because of all the time I have to spend without my husband, things from the past have started to cross my mind again. I don't want them there. AT. ALL. But, they are.

I CONFESS --
   that I do have a lot on my mind. A lot that is personal and private that will not be shared publicly. But, there is a lot on my mind that sometimes keeps me away from my blog.

I CONFESS --
   that I sometimes miss my days as a firefighter. Sometimes I wish I could go back to it. But, at this time I can't.

Do you have any confessions for the week?

WWTKW and Way Back When - ensday: Sleepy Girl

2011-06-29T17:40:00.002-05:00

This week I'm linking up with We Want to Know Wednesday hosted by Impulsive Addict, Janette, Mamarazzi and Seriously Shawn.

1. What was the last thing you searched for online?

Ok, the actual last thing I did a major search for online is another blog post in itself. So, the last little thing I did a online search for was the Baltimore, MD weather for today.

And in case you're wondering, it is currently cloudy and 85*. High of 88* today.
Sadly, I'd rather be in Louisiana where it's currently 92*, heat index of 101* and high supposed to be 93*. Yes, I look up the weather there every day.

2. If we visit your home state, what is one MUST we should do before leaving?
The state I was born and raised in was Virginia. And there's a lot to do there! I was blessed with being raised there no matter what I may say.
So, in no particular order, you should visit (and, yes. I have been to all of these in my life!):

The Historic Triangle (Jamestown, Colonial Williamsburg and Yorktown)

Luray Caverns

Arlington, Virginia (which will then lead you to Washington, DC)

Skyline Drive (Shenandoah Valley)

Virginia Beach

3. What do you think pharmaceutical companies should invent a pill for that isn't on the market yet?

Of course for the most common ailment that there is nothing for: stupidness. I could write a book on all the people I know that could use a pill for this. There are just way too many!

4. When was your first kiss? Was it good or bad?

It was when I was 11. It was with the guy I had been crushing on all year. He finally asked me to be his girlfriend. {For the record, this only lasted for like 2 weeks.} We were hanging out in the garage at his best friend's house (who happened to be my neighbor) and it just happened. Wasn't like a great kiss but definitely wasn't worse.

5. What is your guilty pleasure tv show that you can not miss?

Treme. I blogged about it here.

*Question #4 is brought to us by Amber and Nadine.

*Question #5 came from Vandy.

I am also linking up with Way Back When - esday with Twinfatuation.

Child -- Charlotte

Dateline of photo -- December 2007

Her age -- 2 years, 2 months

When Charlotte was a baby, we'd always find her sleeping in awkward positions and places. This was one of them. But, she was perfectly content.

What I Learned This Week: A Bunch of Nothing

2011-06-28T21:22:00.002-05:00

It really amazes me sometimes what I learn within a given week. Mainly its off-the-wall, craziness. Sometimes, it's actually something truly valuable. So, here we go for this week:

I learned that 6 kids + 12 ice cream cups = someone getting more/less than the others. I swore when I bought this product that 12 ice cream cups divided by 6 kids = 2 cups a piece. Apparently my math is rusty. It didn't work out that way.
I learned that some people just shouldn't have positions of power. And, yes, this is one of the gems that I believe to be important. You know the type. "Oh, I am so special and deserve to be treated as such." "Oh, I deserve to only be at the top and no where else." Yet, they really truly have no clue on God's green earth how to perform their job at that level. I really could go on and on about this. But, I'll spare you. This time.
I learned its time to clean your laptop screen when you can't tell if it's a speck of dirt or a lowercase i. Ooops....
I learned that planning a one day trip to Ellis Island and Liberty Island in New York takes 4 months of preparation.
Now, this one is very important. I learned that when I open an email in my Gmail App, it saves the pictures to my memory card in my phone. Now, why is this important? Because, this is information you need to know when you hand your phone over to your husband so he can view the photos you took of the kids. Since, you're gonna have to explain who the picture of the strange guy is that got saved from a friend's email.
Sometimes, it's just best to leave well enough alone. There is no need to re-live, re-hash and spend time wondering about things that just belong in the past. It only equals pain in the end.
I have learned that I can easily plan and write a blog post... only not for the current day!

Now, hop on over to From Inmates to Playdates and see what other things people have learned!

Music Monday: Song that Makes Me Happy

2011-06-27T08:43:00.002-05:00

This one has been really tough for me. I love music. A lot. But yet, I couldn't come up with one single song that made me happy! I mean, how does someone who likes music not know of at least one? Maybe my version of happy didn't equal the world's version of happy?

Finally, after searching my music folders and listening to endless hours of Pandora radio, I decided that this song made me happy.

It involves two of my most favorite things in the world: New Orleans and the Saints.

Adapted from the 30 Day Song Challenge

My Happy List 6/25/11

2011-06-25T16:58:00.000-05:00

It makes me HAPPY that the 6^th movie in the Fast and the Furious series will be out in May 2013 cause looking at Vin Diesel makes me HAPPY. {Shhhh.....}

Image Credit: Jaimie Trueblood

It makes me HAPPY that Vin Diesel is getting a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Because, in case you didn't know, anything about Vin Diesel makes me HAPPY.

Can we say "Road trip to Hollywood" in the future.

Where was I? Oh yeah, my happy list...

Well, these 6 ~~for the most part~~ make me HAPPY.

My six Daughters

And this little guy, he is always doing something goofy to make me laugh which makes me HAPPY

My son

It makes me HAPPY when my kids all get along. Oh, wait that hasn't happened in reality yet. Well, the DREAM of it happening makes me HAPPY!

Well something else made me HAPPY this past week, but hey, a girl's gotta have her secrets! ;-)

So, what made YOU happy this week?

Friday Confessionals 6/24/11

2011-06-24T15:54:00.000-05:00

I CONFESS....

that my appointment to enroll in classes for Fall 2011 isn't until July 5th. And I'm already obsessing over it!

I CONFESS....

that while typing the above confession, I stopped to browse the online course catalog. And wrote down the ~~1^st round of classes before I change my mind again~~ classes I'll sign up for.

And I CONFESS....

that 3 of them are taught by my favorite professor from the Spring semester. And I selected that particular section because of that fact.

I CONFESS....

that I am so home sick for Louisiana that it literally hurts!

Which leads to I CONFESS....

that I actually blocked 2 friends moving to Louisiana on my facebook just so I didn't have to hear their bragging about it. Call me a hater. I don't care. I just choose not to have it rubbed in my face that they get to be where I want to be so desperately.

What's your confessions this week?

MY Decisions, Not YOURS!

2011-06-23T10:44:00.001-05:00

I am a very passionate person. I believe very strongly in parental rights. Meaning, I believe a parent has the right to choose any legal method to parent.

So, it makes no difference to me if you breast feed or formula feed. Just as long as your baby is being fed.

It makes no difference to me if you use cloth diapers or disposable diapers.

It makes no difference to me if you circumcise or don't.

It makes no difference to me if you send your child to public, private, Montessori school or home school them yourself. Just as long as you are involved in their education and make sure they are getting the best possible.

It makes no difference to me if you co-sleep or put your baby in their own bed right away.

And {one of the most controversial of all}, it is not my place to order you to vaccinate your child or not.

My first child was born when I was 19. I listened to the world around me. I mean, they were all mothers. They knew what was best, right? As the years went on, even after my second was born, I started questioning what I was told. It was then I started to investigate my options. I realized that I had choices and not everyone's was going to be the same. I realized that just because someone else did something a certain way, didn't mean I had to.

Every time I was faced with a decision, I was came to from all sides. "This way is best." "That way is wrong." "This is what you are SUPPOSED to do." I learned to smile and say "Thank you for your opinion. After I complete my research on {said topic}, my husband and I will make the best decision for OUR family." Many of our decisions weren't the popular ones, but hey. It was our right to make that choice.

Now, don't take me as one of those people who throws my hands up when you're giving me your opinion on something. Because I'm not. I will listen to your well thought out statements. Just don't get mad at me if I don't agree with you. And by the same token, I'm not going to belittle you or call you a bad parent if you do something different than me. But, if you ask for my opinion, I'm going to tell it to you. I don't expect you to follow my every word and do as I do. But, don't get upset if my opinion differs.

Just because I believe one way doesn't mean I'm some crazed person who is out to form every mother to be like me. I don't view circumcision as mutilation just because I didn't circumcise my son. I don't view all public education as inadequate just because I home school my children. You have to realize that you can't make every mother make the same decisions you did. That, you see, takes away parental right to choose.

So, just a little reminder -- How to parent MY child(ren) is MY decision, not YOURS!

And now, I will get off my soapbox.

Pick Up Lines, Insomnia, NKOTB, Twins and More!

2011-06-22T16:52:00.000-05:00

This week I'm linking up with We Want to Know Wednesday hosted by Impulsive Addict, Janette, Mamarazzi and Seriously Shawn.

1.What is the best or worst pick up line you have ever been given?

Is there a good pick up line? *shrug* How about "Can I take a picture of you, so I can show Santa just what I want for Christmas."? Or "I wish you were DSL so I could get high-speed access."? Then there's always, "I was blinded by your beauty so I'm going to need your name and number for insurance reasons."

2.What is your most and least favorite day of the week?
I guess my most favorite day of the week would be Friday. You know since it is payday. When I actually have money. Because by Saturday the bills have taken it all. My least favorite day is Monday. {Whose isn't?}

3.How many hours of sleep do you require each night?
Well, I would love to get like 8 a night. I mean, I would have so much energy the next day and could probably accomplish something productive. But, I only get like 3 a night. If I'm lucky. Really lucky.

4.Is there a song that takes you back in time? What song is it and what memory is it attached to?
Sadly, Hangin Tough by NKOTB. I admit it. I was a New Kids on the Block ~~stalker~~ fan when I was like 11. This song takes me back there. Simple times. Stress free. Hmmm... Oh, to be 11 again and know what I know now.

5.What is your biggest guilty pleasure?
5 Guys Burgers and Fries. Double bacon cheeseburger with grilled onions, grilled mushrooms and ketchup. Cajun fries. Once a week. Or else...

I am also linking up with Way Back When - esday with Twinfatuation.

Children -- Courtney and Cheyenne
Dateline of photo -- October 2007
Their age -- a couple of weeks

This was when the second set of twins were just a couple of weeks old. This is also a very rare photo because they are not close at all. I can officially tell you that not all twins are like 2 peas in a pod. My first set are thicker than thieves. This set, it depends on the day. Some days they like each other. Others they want nothing to do with each other.

Music Monday: My Least Favorite Song

2011-06-20T13:53:00.002-05:00

Well, this one took a while to decide on. There are many, many songs I just utterly hate. But, this one is #1. Please, KimK, for the love of all that is decent - Don't sing anymore. Thanks!

Adapted from the 30 Day Song Challenge

We Want To Know Wednesday and Way Back When - esday

2011-06-15T14:14:00.000-05:00

This week I'm linking up with We Want to Know Wednesday hosted by Impulsive Addict, Janette, Mamarazzi and Seriously Shawn.

{1} You have been asked to give a 10 minute speech to teenage girls. What is it about?
      Eating disorders. I had one as a teen so I know what it's like. First hand. And the lasting effects 20 years later.

{2} Do you have a pet? Tell us about them. No pets? Why?
     No pets here. Please. I have 7 kids and a husband. I don't want or need for that matter ANYTHING else to take care of. Really. I don't. Oh, sure they beg. They want a dog, cat, bird, goldfish, hamster, chichilla, anything. All they gonna get is a pet rock. And if I find it on the floor, it's going in the trash!

{3} What is the biggest inconvenience about the place you’re currently living?
     Well, besides the fact that this isn't my home state, much less city and it's not even a stay that has a time limit to it {meaning we could be told tomorrow that we are going somewhere else. Hubby. Needs. A. Different. Job. Like. Yesterday.}, we are in a hotel. Family of 9 + hotel = HELP ME!

{4} What do you think is the single best decision you have made in your life so far?
      Well, it's definitely not letting hubby take this job! So, after having my kids {well, that depends on what day of the week it is}, I would say going back to college.

{5} What are the THREE "nevers" of your life? (things you would never do or have never done)
      I have never travelled out of this country.
      I have never sky-dived {but hope to one day}.
      I will never own a pet snake. {And I mean NEVER}

I am also linking up with Way Back When - esday with Twinfatuation.

Child -- Tina

Dateline of photo -- September 2005

Her age -- 7

You don't see these types of photos around my house since I home school them. This was one of the 2 years I sent her to public school.

Rockin' The Bump... 2005 Style

2011-06-14T03:21:00.000-05:00

I wasn't going to participate in this meme hosted by Shell at Things I Can't Say. At all. I really truly wasn't. You see, while I cherish my Baby Bumps {you know since they were actually my babies}, the only pregnancy I had pictures of my belly was pregnancy #3 -- the 1^st set of twins. Why you ask? Well, pregnancy #1 I was 19 and well, to be honest, I didn't even own a camera! Never mind the fact that I didn't even know that belly pics were the "in thing". Pregnancy #2, I still didn't know that belly pics were the "in thing". Pregnancy #4 (twins part 2), I did take a couple of belly pics, but they are now missing! And Pregnancy #5, I had no desire to document my belly. So, here are 2 from my collection of belly pics of pregnancy #3:

Me at 16 weeks, when it was a cute bump. This was the only picture I had with my face in it. See my expression. Yeah, I was already uncomfortable. And to be honest with you, I had probably just taken some Demerol. I have horrendous migraines and Demerol was the only thing they could find to keep me out of pain while pregnant.

Me at 36 weeks. This was when it was a beach ball rather than a bump. The next day, the doctor finally induced me and I had the girls. You're probably lucky you can't see my face. I didn't have many nice faces during those last 6 weeks.

I have oodles of pics from this pregnancy from week 13 - week 36. Even the oh so flattering bare belly pics. Trust me, I won't blind you with those! So, hope you enjoyed my 2005 style bump. Now, hop on over to Shell's and check out every one else's!

30 Day Picture Challenge: Day 3

2011-06-14T01:50:00.000-05:00

Day 03 - A picture of the cast from your favorite show.

I couldn't find a picture of the cast.

My favorite TV show, right now, is Treme. It airs on HBO on Sunday nights at 10 pm EST. We are currently in Season 2. {I confess, I own Season 1 on DVD already!}

Here is the synopsis of the show [from Wikipedia]:

An American television drama series created by David Simon and Eric Overmyer. It takes its name from Tremé, a neighborhood in the city of New Orleans. The series begins three months after Hurricane Katrina where the residents of New Orleans, including musicians, chefs, Mardi Gras Indians, and ordinary New Orleanians try to rebuild their lives, their homes and their unique culture in the aftermath of the 2005 hurricane.

Well, anyone who knows me knows that my heart and soul lives in New Orleans. That is my home. So, this show was automatically going to be one of my favorites. But, I never imagined it to be my #1 favorite. Like I said above, I own Season 1 and will own Season 2 when it comes out. {Oh, and will own this shirt:}

Photo from Fleurty Girl

QOTW: True or False? Parenting Myths

2011-06-14T01:09:00.000-05:00

I usually participate in QOTW over at Multiples.... and More! But, lately the questions either didn't apply to me or interest me. However, this week's was one I really liked. Parenting Myths. We've all heard them at some point. I have heard so many over the last 13 years, I could re-write the parenting myth book! But here is my absolute favorite:

It Gets Easier!
Someone, please tell me when it gets easier? My oldest is 13 and I promise you, it has not gotten any easier! We went through the terrible 2's and 3's, frightful 4's and 5's, then the school age years, and pre-teen years and now we've hit the teens. Mind you I have 5 more after her following in the same pattern. I'm kinda now starting to think that someone with either A) No children or B) the {non-existent} perfect child came up with this myth. I sure haven't seen it!

As an inspiration from this QOTW, I will be {over time} writing about other parenting myths. Check back for those. In the meantime, what parenting myth is your favorite?

Linked up at Multiples.... and More!

Music Monday: My Favorite Song

2011-06-13T09:02:00.001-05:00

Adapted from the 30 Day Song Challenge

30 Day Picture Challenge: Day 2

2011-06-12T15:30:00.000-05:00

Day 02 - A picture of you and the person you have been close with for awhile.

This is me and my friend Tracy on my wedding day in 1999. She was my bridesmaid (and she did my hair). I have known her for about 20+ years now. I call her my 2^nd mother.

30 Day Picture Challenge: Day 1

2011-06-11T08:34:00.000-05:00

For the next 30 days, I will be sharing a picture - either mine or a web photo - relating to a certain topic.

Day 01 - A picture of yourself with fifteen facts.

15 Facts About Me

1~ I was born July 28, 1978

2~ I am a 100% Leo.

3~ I have 6 daughters and 1 son.

4~ I am studying Psychology in college.

5~ I love New Orleans.

6~ Mardi Gras is my favorite holiday.

7~ My favorite foods are Italian, seafood and Cajun.

8~ I am stubborn when I believe strongly in something.

9~ I know more about football than most men would like to admit I know.

10~ I have been a Hornets fan since they were franchised in Charlotte.

11~ My favorite color is pink.

12~ I listen to all types of music.

13~ I'm a loyal friend until you betray me.

14~ I used to have 11 piercings. I want 9, maybe 10, back.

15~ I have 2 tattoos.

Pour Your Heart Out: You're Not my Judge

2011-06-09T00:04:00.000-05:00

I am a frequent follower of an "Will remain Nameless" blog. I usually like what they have to say. Until I read their newest post. They were referring to an overweight co-worker who enjoyed partaking in fast food. Simple enough, right? They saw someone overweight and didn't think they should eat fast food. But, here's my problem: When did it become our right to police other grown adult's food choices?

I'm going to be honest here.

I am not on the slender side at all. As a matter of fact, because of my weight and height I am considered obese. Although in my defense it is all in my ass.

And I do treat myself to a fast food cheeseburger once a week. So flippin' what? A) I don't need you to remind me that I am not skinny. I have tons of pictures to tell me that. And B) No stranger is going to tell me that just because I gained weight over the years that I am wrong for eating fast food. I dare you to try.

Maybe, if you got to know me you'd realize some things.

I do have 7 kids.

That includes 2 sets of twins.

And 3 pregnancies, 5 kids within the last 4 years.

2 of my pregnancies were deemed high risk where I was ORDERED by a MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL to sit/lay for anywhere from 15 - 30 weeks of a pregnancy.

You might also find that I was anorexic all through high school. Eating a lot is not a normal for me.

Guess what? I'm not an emotional eater either. I'm actually more of an emotional cleaner. {So, if I go on a mad woman binge of cleaning -- watch out!}

I also don't snack. I have an occasional piece of chocolate. Especially when it's "that time".

I also eat in moderation and 99% of the time it's home cooked.

But, let me also state that there was a time a few months ago that I ate out every day for 2 weeks.

And guess what? I LOST WEIGHT! To the point I had to buy new pants because the ones I had were falling off me!

So, if you see me in line ordering a cheeseburger. Double bacon at that. Don't assume I am fat because that is all I eat. I promise you it's not. Far from it.

Oh, and if you see me alone in a restaurant line ordering a 16 piece and an 8 piece chicken meal to go, DON'T ASSUME IT'S BECAUSE I INTEND TO GO HOME AND SCARF IT ALL DOWN MYSELF! I do have 9 mouths to feed each and every day. Just because I'm "fluffy", doesn't mean someone doesn't love me and we pledged our lives to each other and have a large family!

Get over yourself! BECAUSE YOU ARE NOT MY JUDGE!

*Just a brief reminder that I am pouring my heart out and please be respectful in your comments. ;)*

Linked up at Things I Can't Say

My Weekly "Who Gives A Flip?"

2011-06-04T10:25:00.000-05:00

My weekly "Who Gives A Flip?" goes to Kim Kardashian and Kris Humphries.

Photo from People

Please explain to me exactly what she is famous for? Famous because her dad was best friend's with OJ Simpson? Famous because OJ is her godfather? Famous because someone sold her sex tape with Ray J? (Speaking of which, have you seen that??? Ummmm.... so not worth the time. Trust me!) Famous because she banged Reggie Bush for years? Famous because of her dysfunctional family hijinks? So, at what point in this am I supposed to care that her boyfriend of SIX MONTHS gave her a $2M, 20-karat ring? And exactly who is her new fiance? Kris Humphries? Of the New Jersey Nets? Who? Oh, him.... {I'm still shrugging. He wasn't on my list of prospects for Fantasy Basketball.} And he bought her a ring that cost how much? How much does he make any way? Oh, $3.2M a year. {hey, not a bad paycheck but...} You just spent over half of your yearly salary on a ring for a chick who bounces from man to man? Hmmmph... Your life I suppose....

Now, people are buzzing around saying this wedding will be America's rival to the Royal Wedding. Really? Seriously? Since when did the Jenners/Kardashians become America's royalty? Sorry, I care less about this wedding than I did the royal wedding. And I cared 0 about that one!

So, this week I say "Who gives a flip about the engagement of Kim Kardashian and Kris Humphries?

Pour Your Heart Out: You Left Your Kid WHERE???

2011-06-02T22:26:00.001-05:00

There seems to be a major problem going on in America these days. People leaving kids in cars. For HOURS! Seriously. Google it. I mean I put "Child left in car" and came up with millions of pages. These are just the recent headlines: Teacher Arrested for Leaving Child in Car, Woman Jailed After Leaving Child In Car For 8 Hours, Father Arrested for Leaving Child in Hot Car to Play Video Games, and Police: Couple Leave Child in Hot Car Outside a Strip Club.

Ok, first off. I am a mom. I have 7 kids. I have never, ever, ever left a single one of them alone in a car. Not to run inside and visit a friend, not to attend a graduation ceremony, not to play video games and certainly not to enter a strip club. Seriously, what type of people are these? Two instances state the child was actually the GODCHILD of the suspect. I really don't give a flip. If I TRUST you with my child, then that best damn well be your number one priority. I don't give a crap if you just remembered you have to tell Sally Jo something, and after running in to tell her get to gossiping and forget about time. I don't care if you have to attend a graduation, I don't care if you have groceries in your car and I don't care if your Farmville crops need tending to. My child best be the first thing on your mind while in your care! If not, please don't get offended if I don't ask you to watch my most prized accomplishments! I'm sorry but none of those things are more important to me than my kid.

While I have several kids, my oldest IS a teen. If I need to leave them in the vehicle, A) She sits in the driver's seat, b) she knows how to keep the AC/heat at the proper temperature and c) she knows HOW to drive, HOW to call my cell phone and to drive to the closest cop she can find if in danger. This is a far cry from leaving my 3 year old alone with the vehicle off for hours! One of those kids in the above stories died. It was one of the "child was the godchild of the accused" stories. These parents trusted her with their child and now they have to go on without him? Oh, I don't care who you are. I will fight to have you convicted!

According to my research only fourteen states have laws that prohibit leaving children unattended in an automobile. They include California, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, and Washington. Penalties for leaving children alone range from noncriminal traffic infractions to second-degree manslaughter charges if the child dies as a result from being left alone in the car. Only 14 states of 50 actually have laws? The rest leave it up to local law enforcement? Uh, NEGATIVE! If my child dies because of someone else, I will beat the living crap out of any law enforcement official who says they can't do anything! Hopefully my news station and research got this wrong!

From the Department of GeoSciences at San Francisco State University:
LEGAL

Only 19 states have laws specifically addressing leaving a child unattended in a vehicle.
The remaining 31 states do not have laws specifically against leaving a child unattended in a vehicle
  Currently only 1 state, Utah, has proposed legislation that would make it a crime to leave a child unattended in a vehicle
Another 14 states have had previously proposed unattended child laws
An Associated Press (AP) study "Wide disparity exists in sentences for leaving kids to die in hot cars" examined both the frequency of prosecutions and length of sentences in hyperthermia deaths
       - Charges were files in 49% of all the deaths. 81% resulted in convictions.
       - In cases with paid caregivers (i.e., childcare workers, babysitters) 84% were charged and 96% convicted
       - Only 7% of the cases involved drugs or alcohol

So, what's my take? If there is something more important in your life than your child, please refrain from reproducing. If there is something more important in your life than the safety and well being of a child in your care, then please refrain from watching someone's.

I have been hearing these stories for years. Thankfully no child I know has ever been a victim of this. But, to hear people say "In their defense, maybe they had too much on their mind...". WHAT? Let me tell you something! My kids are the first and foremost thing on my mind 24/7! Whether they are with me or with someone else. I worry about them, I pray for their safety, I trust that they will be fine. In 13 years, I have never walked into my house or other building and suddenly remembered "Oooops. I left {name of child here} in the car." As a matter of fact, I am the parent who goes to get them out of the vehicle EVEN WHEN THEY AREN'T WITH ME! I'm sorry. Don't hand me this line of bull that you had too much on your mind. If you have that much on your mind then seriously, no I don't think you should even be caring for a child at the moment.

Hate me for my opinion. Hate me because I am blunt about it. Makes no difference to me. I believe that a child should come first and that is just that. AND IT'S MY OPINION!!!!

*Just a brief reminder that I am pouring my heart out and please be respectful in your comments. ;)*

Linked up at Things I Can't Say

June Goals

2011-06-02T10:54:00.000-05:00

I have decided to try this and see how I get along. I am A) a major procrastinator, B) a person with MAJOR ADHD, C) a person with OCD tendencies and D) a master at lists. So, I am hoping to *try* and keep myself in check. I need some sort of order here!

Goals for THIS blog
~ Post at least 5 times a week
~ Post at least once a week that links to a Meme
~ Start thinking of a new blog design. I really hate the header but it was the best I could come up with on short notice.

Goals for my other blogs (check out my "Sister Blogs" Link above to find these other blogs)
~ Post at least once a week - twice a week in home school blog
~ Post at the least my weekly menu plans on my recipe/food blog
~ Post at least once a week to my saving money blog
~ Post at least once a week to my sports blog

Goals for Bayou Excellence Academy (our home school)
~ Stay on course with plans as much as possible
~ Document our activities better (for personal reasons; what I already do is enough for legal reasons)

Personal Goals
~ Eat better
~ Exercise more
~ Pick college classes for Fall and STICK TO THEM!

I'll post how I did on July 1^st along with my July Goals!

It's Race Day!

2011-05-29T21:21:00.000-05:00

Sundays are the typical day for the NASCAR's Sprint Cup races. I have been watching racing since I was 13 years old and chose Dale Earnhardt as my favorite driver. While others hated his aggressive style, I loved it! I was ecstatic when he won his first Daytona 500 (on his 20^th try!) on February 15, 1998. And I was heartbroken when he was killed in a last lap in the Daytona 500 on February 18, 2001. After his death, i considered not watching NASCAR without him. After that idea was rejected, I considered cheering for his son, Dale Jr. i also rejected that idea. Then I saw Tony Stewart. He has a certain edge to him that could almost replace Dale Earnhardt to me. So, from that moment, Tony Stewart became my new favorite driver. And still is today.

As for my love of NASCAR, it has dwindled through the years. At one point, I had an enormous memorabilia collection. I had large (1:24) die-casts, small (1:64) die-casts, framed photos, books, magazines, key chains, T-shirts along with other items. Much of that collection has been sold or lost (through moves).

The husband still watches NASCAR. I simply tolerate it. I still hope for Stewart to win, but cannot stand to sit and watch it.

Here are a few of my personal pictures associated with NASCAR.

November 2005

When I first found out I was pregnant with my first set of twins, I bought 2 sets of Tony Stewart socks.

April 2006

We made a trip to Corpus Christi, TX and visited Labonte Park when we left.

December 2010

My son sleeping in my old Tony Stewart jersey.

April 2011

My son wearing his Tony Stewart outfit.

May 2011

Dover Downs and Dover flag

Leopards Don't Change Their Spots.... Or Do They?

2011-05-27T14:20:00.000-05:00

This going to be somewhat of a vent. But, it is just something that has been weighing on my mind. So, I apologize in advance.

We all have that friend. You know, the needy, emotional drama filled one that we just can't seem to de-friend. I listened for years to my friend whose boyfriend was just treating her wrong. Listened to her cry, scream, bitch, complain, etc. Then, one day they finally broke up. She moved on, made a good life for herself and I was proud of her for doing so.

So, she starts dating loser #2. It's not my problem. So, I stay out of it. Until she starts calling again complaining that he is treating her wrong. So, what can I say? I listen sympathetically, give her logical advice. It appears they are done. Over.

Then.... they get engaged? What? In the words of Deion Sanders -- "Hold on, Playa!" Oh, wait. That actually fits this loser too perfectly. He's nothing but a player. But, good luck my friend. Wish you the best.

Maybe this time, my phone won't ring with complaining or unhappy tears......

Aloha Friday #6: Consistent Blogging

2011-03-25T04:30:00.000-05:00

Welcome to this week’s edition of Aloha Friday. In Hawaii, Aloha Friday is the day that they take it easy and look forward to the weekend. So I thought that on Fridays I would take it easy on posting, too.

Therefore, I’ll ask a simple question for you to answer. Nothing that requires a lengthy response.

I have a problem with blogging consistently. So, my question is this: What is one tip that works for you when it comes to consistent blogging?

This post is linked up to the Aloha Friday Meme at An Island Life.

Why I Now Have a Content Warning....

2011-02-14T03:19:00.000-06:00

I just recently labelled this blog as "Adult" and gave it a Content warning. Why? Because sometimes I don't have the cleanest mouth. Sometimes, I go on a rant and start using some pretty bad language. I don't always do this. Or even often. I just want this warning there in case you come across it.

QOTW: Me and My Valentine

2011-02-14T03:13:00.000-06:00

This week's QOTW over at Multiples.... and More! is:

How did you meet your Valentine?

I actually met my now husband for the first time when we were 10. This first meeting was not anywhere close to being friendly. My husband was a cocky thing, even back then. He walked up to me on the school bus and dared to utter the words, "I'm God. Worship me." Being the sweet little girl I was, said no with a fist to the face. Ooops.....

Fast forward about 7 years and there we were again. This time as lab partners in Earth Science class. After 5 months of following me around like a little puppy dog, he finally asked me out.

The rest, as they say, is history.......

This was us in October 1996, 5 months after we started dating (and 4 months before our first Valentine's Day together).

Pour Your Heart Out: When I Was YOUR Age

2011-02-02T14:39:00.010-06:00

For the first time, I may even make it to link up this week! I have been trying for months now and just never get the post ready in time. So, here goes....

I could think of a hundred topics to write about today. I had even narrowed it down to one. Then the bottom fell out. All hell broke loose, so to speak. My kids had done it. They crossed the line that they had been dangerously close to for a long while. The disrespect had gone to far. I was accustomed to being called names under their breath. And just out of my (so they thought) earshot. I was used to breaking up more fights than seen during a UFC card. I was used to the demanding little voices, "Let me watch...." "Let me do..." "Give me now..." But, today. Today was it. The end. I had taken all the disrespect I could take. And quite honestly, its more than any one person should ever take. My 12 year old wants to call me a Bitch under her breath. Well, fine. Say hello to Mama Bitch. And that's when it all came pouring out.

"You want to know what I was doing when I was YOUR age?" Well, guess what. Your little 12 year old butt is going to sit there and listen to a hard life. When I was YOUR age, missy, I was babysitting my 7 year old brother, alone, for 8+ hours a day. When I was YOUR age, missy, I was cooking dinner for me and my brother. Alone. When I was YOUR age I was cleaning a whole house by myself. When I was YOUR age, I was doing the laundry for 3 people. When I was YOUR age, I was babysitting my newborn nephew. When I was YOUR age, I was taking MY babysitting money and paying for my little brother to have ice cream at school. Since, you know, that wasn't a priority to our mother. When I was YOUR age, I was still expected to get straight A's while doing everything at home.

Tears start streaming down her face. I say, "So, let's recap YOUR life." I don't leave YOU here alone except when I walk OUTSIDE the door. I don't let YOU cook except the occasional microwave meal. I only ask YOU to clean a little each day. An hour tops. YOU do not do the laundry; I do it all when everyone is asleep. YOU are not required to babysit. YOU are not asked to pay for anything. And I only ask that YOU do the best YOU can when it comes to school. So, exactly where is YOUR life so freaking hard?

She got ready to say something. But, I wasn't done yet. It was MY turn to be heard. So, let's go on. When I was OLDER, I was left to fix tacos or hamburger helper for me and my brother. And then I still had to wash the dishes from where our mother had cooked steak dinners for her boyfriend du jour. Oh, how do YOU think that made me feel? How about when I was 18 and had a job earning MY money? I was expected to buy her dinner at work with MY money and bring it home. Or risk being kicked out. Do I do that to you? Would I ever? Hell no! I ask that you help out and earn things that you want. You know, the things I am NOT REQUIRED to give you. I am required to put a roof over your head. ^POINTING UP^ Look, roof! I am required to offer you food. It doesn't have to be YOUR favorites. Just nutritious food. I am required to offer you drink. There's water. I am required to give you clean, correct size, weather appropriate clothing. It doesn't have to be expensive name brand crap. YOU earn the upgrades! Am I a tough parent? Perhaps. But, why am I going to let YOU walk up to me and tell me, "I AM going to watch such and such TV show.", but tell me that you deserve it cause its YOUR right! WRONG! You want to watch it, help out a little. You wanna talk back when I ask you to pick something up? Well, don't expect a reward.

So, you know what, little girl? YOU are not the adult. YOU will not tell your parents, who pay the bills, what they are going to do and let you do. YOU will do your chores without a complaint. When YOU become the adult and move into YOUR own house, then YOU can do what YOU like. End of discussion. And now, my dear. YOU are on bathroom detail. Step to it....

*Just a brief reminder that I am pouring my heart out and please be respectful in your comments. ;)*

Linked up at Things I Can't Say

They Eat What?

2011-01-31T02:13:00.002-06:00

It's been a long time since I really updated this blog, much less participated in a Meme. So, I guess welcome back to me!

So, here is this week's question from Multiples and More:

What kinds of food do your children eat that surprises you?

I guess I would have some sort of weird story to tell you guys about my kids' choice in food. You know, since I have 7 of them. But, strangely I cannot think of one of the wall thing one of my children eats that would be a surprise. I mean they eat anything I give them. I guess it surprises me that my kids love their veggies. They will eat them before anything else. Fruits too. When we go to my in-law's they always ask for a banana before anything else. But, I remember hearing horror stories when I first got pregnant about how kids hate their veggies. It's a losing battle to get kids to eat them. But, amazingly I don't have that problem. They all love them. We eat mainly the basics - corn, peas, green beans, asparagus, peppers, carrots, broccoli, potatoes. I don't think I've ever cooked a Brussels sprout or cabbage or collards. But, they sure do gobble up the others. And salads. Good grief. These six girls would live off of salads if I'd let them.

But otherwise, I can't think of anything. I mean we lived in Louisiana for almost 2 years. Of course, they eat spicy food. I'm part Italian, so of course they eat that. But, I am just thankful that my kids didn't end being the ones that would throw temper tantrums to see a veggie on their plate.

Don't forget to go over to Multiples and More to see what other kids are eating that surprises their parents.

It's Been A Hot New York Minute.....

2011-01-23T12:37:00.000-06:00

Since I last posted. I really don't know why. Maybe because I got caught up with school. Maybe because between school and kids, I just never had the time. Maybe because deep down I knew that the only thing I had to say was how much I was homesick. And really, who wanted to hear that for 90 days? Yeah, that's what I thought. I really wouldn't want to either. So, its been almost 3 months. And previous to that post, I wasn't really saying much to begin with. So let's recap:

September -- Carolyn turned 8 on the 23rd. It's hard to believe that she is almost in the double digits.

October -- On the 10th, Cheyenne and Courtney turned 3. Then on the 19th, Caitlyn turned 5 and Charlotte turned 5 on the 20th. Charlotte also lost 2 teeth a couple of days apart. it was the 2 bottom front teeth. Caitlyn is, of course, jealous. She has yet to lose a tooth. A few days after Charlotte lost hers, Connor got his 2 first teeth. Surprisingly, in the same location Charlee lost hers.

November -- I began toying around with the idea of changing my major. I narrowed it down to: Psychology, Social Work, or Journalism.

December -- The oldest 4 kids went down to Virginia to spend time with my grandmother. They stayed for 5 days. It was strange to have just 3 kids for almost a week. I finished up my 5th semester of a two-year degree (thanks, repeat courses). I decided that Accounting was not for me. I was honestly so sick of it, I dreaded doing schoolwork. So, I changed my major to Psychology. We went down to Virginia for Christmas. I also got an Android phone. And love every single second I spend on it (which is quite a lot).

January -- Well, this would be currently I guess. I started my spring semester under my new major. And am honestly loving it. i actually enjoy doing my homework now. I still really hate being in Maryland and cannot wait until I can leave it. The kids have been doing great as well. Except for their homesickness as well. And some attitude problems, which are probably related to the homesickness. Connor has grown so much and it's hard to believe he will be 1 year old next month. He is crawling like it's nobody's business. He pulls himself up on things. He can say Mama, Dada, Gimme, Nina (Tina), Carry (Carly) and Who Dat. I guess that came from watching a tad bit too much football with Mommy. Ooops... I believe he will be walking sometime in the very near future.

For The Cause.....

2010-10-05T17:18:00.002-05:00

I have had this post saved in my drafts since the beginning of July. I wanted to share a picture with it, but my kids didn't want me to share a picture yet. So, out of respect for their feelings, I held off. Finally... after 3 months, I am allowed to share the story and picture with the blog world.

I was always a Granddaddy's girl. I was the apple of my granddaddy's eye. That is until I had my oldest daughter, Crystina. Then she became Granddaddy's little girl. They were inseparable. In July 2004, we got the news that he had Pancreatic cancer. On September 13, 2004 - less than 2 moths later - he passed away at home surrounded by his family. Crystina's world was forever changed. My second daughter knew him but they weren't like he and Tina.

One day we were discussing cancer. We talked about remission and death. We discussed chemo and side effects. The girls, well the oldest 2, came up with donating their hair. Which they did. The 2005 twins did it as well, but more as a following gesture. They decided they wanted to shave it off as an association with chemo. I, hesitantly, agreed. They got a little self-conscious about it, but are pretty much over it now.

This picture was taken in August.

I also dug around and found a couple of pics to share.

This was my Granddaddy and Crystina in May 2000. Her birthday was the day after his which was just another bond between the two. This was after her second birthday party which we held at my grandparents' house.

This was a banner I made not long after he died. This was the last picture I took of him. He was sitting in "his" chair with Crystina and Carolyn.

The girls ask that if you feel inclined to please make a donation to your local Relay For Life or to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN). The girls will be making a donation in the spring to PanCAN in honor of their granddad.

Alphabe - Thursday: B is for Babies

2010-09-30T20:56:00.001-05:00

I have been meaning to link up to Alphabe - Thursday hosted by Jenny Matlock each week. However, here it is, Week #2 and I still have not managed to have my post up and ready by the deadline. Maybe by Week #3, I will be on top of things. But, honestly, please don't hold your breath. I'm still adding the link above to her blog since this was her idea to begin with.

This week is the Letter B. The first thing I think of with the letter B is BABIES. I love babies, pretty much all babies. I guess I should since I have a boatload of them. I even started having them 2 at a time! I love how babies like to cuddle up with you. I love how they stare at you with amazement. I love how they smell after a bath. I love dressing them in cute little clothes. I don't love the smell of formula or the baby food. I don't love the poopy diapers or the spit up. But, I deal with all the nasties just to be around the cutsies!

Here is my now 12-year-old as a BABY. This was Christmas 1998. She was 7 months old. We were at my maternal grandmother's house. Crystina was just learning how to crawl.

This was Carolyn at almost 3 months old. She had RSV and was hospitalized for a week. This was the day she was released. I had bought the cutest coordinating teddy bear outfit and decided that she was going to wear it home.

This was Twins Part 1, AKA Caitlyn and Charlotte, when they were 7 weeks old. I love how they were facing each other. I have never regretted my decision to keep them together even after birth. The nurses at the hospital kept telling me that they should be separated and kept apart, blah blah blah. My belief was that they were so close in utero, why split them up so fast. They are still always together. They are just as thick as thieves.

This was Twins Part 2, AKA Cheyenne and Courtney, when they were about a month old. This is a rare photo because they are actually cuddled together. You never see that anymore. I tried, as I did with the earlier twins, to keep them together. But, they wanted nothing to do with that. And they still don't. Sometimes, I wonder how they survived in utero together.

This was Connor when he was 5 days old. He was just coming home from the hospital. He was in the NICU for 4 days (2/26 - 3/2). He stayed in a room with me overnight and was released on 3/3. He learned quick that Mommy loves the camera.

This was my nephew, Christian, when he was a month old.

QOTW: The Wardens Gave Me A Free Day!

2010-09-26T20:55:00.003-05:00

How often do you get a day to yourself?

A day to myself? HA! I don't even get 5 minutes to myself! But, this week at Multiples and More that is going to change. At least in a fantasy world anyway. So, here is this week's question:

If you were given $1,000.00, and 24 completely responsibility-free hours.. what would you to do with it?

Since this is my "fantasy world", I get to make ALL the decisions. So for the sake of making me happy, we are going to pretend that I am back home in New Orleans, the most awesome city in the world. Well, to me anyway.... See, isn't the skyline beautiful?:

But, I digress from my perfect 24-hr day. I'd begin by tailgating by the Superdome. Yep, Saints fans tailgate ALL day long. Actually some begin the day before the game, but I was only given 24 hours so I'll make do. I've already got my jersey that I absolutely love so I really wouldn't need any new clothes for this excursion. The bulk, okay almost ALL my money, would be for tickets to the Saints game. That's all i really want is to watch the Saints play in person. I'm not too hard to please. I just want close seats. You know, not the nose bleed section seats or anything. I don't need anything else. Just a day at the football game is enough.

Now head on over to Multiples and More and see what other mommies said.

Alphabe - Thursday: A is for AIRSHOW

2010-09-23T22:23:00.002-05:00

I have decided to participate in Alphabe- Thursday hosted by Jenny Matlock. I am so glad that I found this at the beginning rather than at some random off-the-wall letter at the end of the alphabet.

Anyways, this week we begin with the letter A.

A is for AIRSHOW and AIRPLANES -- In 2008, we took the kids to their first ever airshow at NAS Oceana (Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia Beach, Virginia). None of the kids had ever been to one before. We went all 3 days. Friday evening we went for the couple of hours they had events going on. The kids were so fascinated with the planes. On Saturday, we went all day and watched everything we could. We tried to get as close to the demonstration planes as we could. All the kids fell in love with the Blue Angels. We went back on Sunday, the 3rd and final day. We were walking around looking at the exhibits and shop booths when a man approached us. He said, "Hi, I'm _______ and I am here with Miller Light. We have some VIP tickets, do you guys want them?" At first we were unsure. Then he handed them to us and told us to follow him to the VIP row. He presented our tickets to the front booth, we were given armbands and he took us straight to the Miller Light VIP tent. We were allowed to get food and beverages for us and the kids from their food tent all day. And we were front row to the Blue Angels show. We were in absolute heaven! We bought the kids each a small blue angel replica.

Tina and Caitlyn at the AIRSHOW

Charlotte and Caitlyn with their airplanes at the AIRSHOW

Crystina and Carolyn exiting an AIRPLANE

A Blue Angel

Courtney at the AIRSHOW

Carolyn with her Blue Angel AIRPLANE

Caitlyn with her Blue Angel AIRPLANE

Cheyenne at the AIRSHOW trying to get to the AIRPLANE

Charlotte with her Blue Angel AIRPLANE

The 6 Blue Angels AIRPLANES

A Blue Angel AIRPLANE

Way Back When-esday: Happy Birthday, Carly!

2010-09-22T14:08:00.003-05:00

My second born turns 8 on September 23^rd. It seems like just yesterday I was pregnant with her. One year for Christmas she wanted a guitar because she liked her uncle's that he got with guitar hero. Couldn't pass up the pretty pink one!

Dateline: December 2007

Age: 5

Go through your photo collection and then link up with Cheryl at Twinfatuation!

2010 NFL Kickoff Game -- Saints Are 1-0!!

2010-09-10T15:42:00.103-05:00

Sign courtesy of Fox8Live.com

Tonight was the 1st game of the 2010 NFL season. It was a re-match from last season's NFC championship, putting the World Championship New Orleans Saints (GEAUX SAINTS!!!) against the Minnesota Vikings in New Orleans.

Before the game the Super Bowl Championship Banner was unveiled.

The 1st Touchdown of the 2010 regular season was made by #19 of the New Orleans Saints, Devery Henderson (and a former LSU Tiger! Woohoo!)

Yes, I wanted to see Favre get sacked! I'm sorry, but he has his elite career. RETIRE!

But, in the end still respect the career of Favre.

My favorite sign

All game photos are from the Times Picayune - NOLA.com

Connor is all ready to watch the game on TV! This is his first time watching a regular season Saints game. I was pregnant all last season!

I was chanting "Who Dat! Who Dat! Who Dat say dey gonna beat dem saints?" And he cried! I guess he was thinking no one was gonna beat dem saints!

Mommy and her Bayou Boy! You can take us out of Louisiana but you can't take the Louisiana out of us!

Game 2: 9/20 @ 8:30 pm EST

MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL -- Here come the Who Dat's

VS.

ROAD TRIP! And I Wanna Go Home!

2010-08-16T23:01:00.000-05:00

The above title was my tweet on 8/11/10. Wednesday morning, we began the long drive from Southern Louisiana to the mountains of Virginia (then off to Maryland Thursday afternoon). I cried driving down my road. I cried when I passed the SuperDome. I cried when I crossed the Louisiana/Mississippi border. Why? Because Louisiana is HOME! I may have been born in Virginia. I may have been raised in Virginia. But, my heart is in Louisiana. In my heart, Louisiana is my home, not Virginia. Sadly, I get criticized for that feeling. But, I'm sorry. How can I consider a place home where I have never been welcomed. I am always looked down on. I am always put down. So, yes, Louisiana is home to me.

I had once heard that Louisiana was like a drug. Once it gets in your system, its hard to get out. Louisiana got me the moment I set foot there. She owns me; I am one of her babies now. I have been gone for 24 hours (when I wrote this) and I miss my bayous. I miss hearing all about my Saints; Redskins talk just isn't the same! Where's my Louisiana accents? Where's my Louisiana jargon? Where's my Louisiana hospitality? I want to go home so badly!

I had convinced myself that this was just an extended vacation and that worked - until I drove out of Louisiana. I know that this trip will be educational for the kids. Between all there is to do in Maryland, DC, and NorVA, they will always have something to do and will always have something to learn. And I know its just a matter of time before I am back home in the place I love so dearly.

I must admit that Connor was the most behaved child on the way here. The other 6 bickered and fought and screamed "I want....", "I'm thirsty!", "I'm hungry!" the whole way. Even 5 minutes after eating they were screaming for more food. Tiring! And it makes for a long trip!

Here are some pics of the mountains of NorVA. I really hate the mountains, but yet I always take pictures of them. I say its to remind myself of exactly what I hate.

And my poor little bayou baby is just like me. He hates the mountains. No worries about him becoming a mountain baby. He will always be my bayou baby boy.

Aloha Friday (#5): Road Trip!

2010-08-13T07:02:00.002-05:00

In Hawaii, Aloha Friday is the day that they take it easy and look forward to the weekend. So Kailani of An Island Life thought that on Fridays she would take it easy on posting, too. So, she created the Aloha Friday meme.

Therefore, I’ll ask a simple question for you to answer. Nothing that requires a lengthy response. If you’d like to participate, just answer my question in the comments section, post your own question on your blog and then hop over and visit An Island Life and leave your link!

So, for today.....

Q. What was the longest (distance) road trip you have been on? Who went with you?

A. My longest road trip was from Courtland, Virginia to Corpus Christi, Texas in April 2006. It was me, my husband and our then 5 (almost 6) month old twin daughters. The trip was approximately 1600 miles and took us about 24 hours of drive time (doesn't count when we stopped to sleep in a hotel). We left at 8 pm on a Friday night, drove straight through to Baton Rouge, La. There we stopped to spend the night in a hotel. Got up the next morning and drove the rest of the way to Corpus Christi, TX.

On our trip home, I altered the trip so I could go through Florida, Charleston SC and Wilmington NC.

Thursday 13 Travel Edition: Random Signs

2010-08-12T10:34:00.000-05:00

I am currently on an extended "vacation" to the East Coast (I live on the Gulf Coast). I travelled through 6 states and saw a lot. Sometimes, even more than I wanted to. So, here are 13 random signs I saw. Some were on vehicles as advertisements and some were billboards. Some I have pics of and some I only wish I had pics of.

1) The Best Place to Take A Leak
    ~ This was an advertisement on a truck for a radiator service in Louisiana. So, I must ask - "Exactly how many people have taken a leak ON your truck simply because your truck says it's the best place??" I am curious!!

2) You Can't Fix Stupid, but you can vote 'em out!
    ~ AMEN, Mississippi! Couldn't agree more!

3) Mississippi's Leading Distributor Choice for Lubricants
    ~ My gutter mind kicked in here for a moment. Sorry.....

4) Medical West Hospital has 24/7 ER (Alabama)
    ~ Really? Maybe its just me but I thought ER's were all 24/7? And it was Urgent Care centers that had hours?

5) Up to $1,000 fine for littering. (Georgia)
    ~ This was just funny at the time. I figured Georgia was $20,000 richer just from the litter AROUND the sign!

6) Leaving Fog Advisory Area.
    ~ Ok, Tennessee. So, it only gets foggy in that area? Really? Ok.

7) Athens Inn -- America Owned (Tennessee)
    ~ That's wonderful! However, the outside appearance of your hotel promotes 2 of America's greatest professions - prostitution and drugs! Sorry! (No, we didn't stay there. It was next to a gas station we stopped at)

8) Quality Inn has pet rooms (Tennessee)
    ~ I understand that this means that they allow pets. But, just seeing this billboard made me giggle. I wanted to call just to ask what pet rooms look like.

9) Cars Only Rest Stop (Virginia)
    ~ I realize this means no 18 wheelers or RVs. But, really. Some people may also believe this also means no pick up trucks, vans, SUVs. I mean you know the intellectual capacity of some people.

10) I love my Granddogs.
     ~ This was a bumper sticker on the back of a car in the mountains of VA. Upon passing the car, I noticed it was a sweet looking little old man. I wanted to wave and smile just because I thought it was sweet he had this sticker on his car. Then I remembered that this ain't Louisiana. And people aren't always friendly up here.

11) Knock 'Em Down and Call 'Em Shorty
     ~ Tree service in Virginia. And rather corny if you ask me! I just have this vision of this man standing in a yard screaming "How do you like me now, Shorty?!"

12) Snow Emergency Route (Maryland)
      ~ I am baffled! What if the snow is worse that way than the way you're leaving?

And for the lack of seeing another one (or remembering to write it down)....

13) Call us for our special sleeping room rates!
      ~ Quality Hotel in Houma, La. I guess they had this sign since they also have banquet rooms. But it just looked odd. I mean most people think of sleeping rooms in a hotel before banquet rooms. I'm just sayin'.........

** Check out Thursday 13 for more lists of 13 random things. **

ROAD TRIP!!!!

2010-08-12T10:16:00.003-05:00

For the next week, 99.9% of my blog posts will have a common theme: Road Trip! This is to ~~inflict the agony of~~ share my road trip with you. Enjoy!!!

QOTW: Photo Organization

2010-08-01T05:45:00.000-05:00

As we all know, parents these days take a lot of pictures of their kids- and having multiples means having two, three, or four times the photos to store or and organize. Our photos are precious memories, and it may just be a good time to get things organized before a hard drive tragedy strikes!

How do you store and organize your photos? (Digital, and physical?)

■Do you save only on your computer, or do you use an online photosharing site?
I have my digital pictures saved on my external flash drive. They are all in dated folders so I'll know when they were taken. I also have some on my sites such as facebook and myspace as well as on photosharing sites. My physical pictures are just thrown into a box.

■If so, which one do you use? What do you like about it?
I use fotki and photobucket. I use photobucket mainly for my blog since it has the html code. I use fotki to share pictures using a link that visitors view. I like that both have privacy settings (although fotki's privacy settings are just for paid users).

■Do you have physical albums of your photos, or do they only exist online?
Only online. I really want to get my stuff together and get my photos printed and into albums.

■Do you scrapbook?
No. I wanted to when it first became popular. But, now with 7 kids, I'd never get caught up! I had actually decided to make CDs for each of the kids with their personal pictures as well as family photos on it. That way they would always have them and could do what they wanted with them.

But, please, if any of you have any ideas on how to keep physical photos organized besides photo albums, let me know! I have a feeling I'll have pictures all printed off before I have albums to put them in.

Let's play a little game- Since today is 8-1, Go to your eighth album in your "Pictures" files, and post the first picture in it on your blog.

This was Connor in the NICU on the day he was born. This was my first time seeing him since they took him out of the OR.

This post is linked to Multiples and More.

Product Review: Swivel Sweeper G2

2010-07-31T05:02:00.016-05:00

** DISCLAIMER: I paid for this product myself. I have never been in contact with any company affiliated with this product. I received no product, cash or any other compensation for this review. **

I saw this product advertised one night on television. I thought it looked neat and would be a great product for our household. According to the infomercial I watched, it would clean up all types of messes on any type of floor. It would clean up dry and wet messes. However, my husband wasn’t sold on this product at all. He even rolled his eyes at it. Then one day our vacuum broke and we were put in the position to purchase a new one. We looked at all types of vacuums, my heart being set on a Dyson. However, the Dyson was out of our price range. I then asked again for the Swivel Sweeper. He relented, and we found it at Walgreen’s for $39.99 + tax. I was confident that this was going to be a great solution to our vacuum problem.

I used it the next day. I was not impressed at all. When I used it on my carpet, it “bounced” when being pulled back and all the dirt fell back out. I tried cleaning the floors several times and it just did not pick up much at all. When I emptied the dirt container, it was simple enough to do. I really liked that it was cordless, the battery was supposed to last for 45 minutes on a charge (it didn’t) and it seemed like there wasn’t enough battery power to work the vacuum. The swivel design was a nice feature, as was the bendable handle to reach up under furniture. This would have been the ideal product for me had it worked properly.

I ended up borrowing a neighbor’s vacuum for that day and then purchasing another vacuum that night. The Swivel Sweeper found its way to the trash. I even gave it a few more tries before completely trashing it. I do not recommend this product based on my experience with it. Please leave me a comment if you have had a different experience with this product.

Aloha Friday (#4): July

2010-07-30T04:13:00.002-05:00

Thursday 13: Must See TV

2010-07-29T04:00:00.013-05:00

I used to be all about TV. I watched everything I could possibly squeeze into one day. When I was a teenager, I had a list of TV programs that I would watch on a daily basis – at least 16 hours worth (especially during the summer). As I got older and had kids, I realized that I had to give up more and more of my TV time. Now - a – days, it’s a bitter fight for me to watch TV. Most days I end up waving my white flag in surrender and let the kids have the TV. Why?, I end up asking myself. They never watch it! It’s just background noise to them. While I’m stuck with watching the images of Phineas and Ferb (a show I absolutely despise!), they are running around screaming and shouting and playing. But, heaven forbid if I turn the channel to something else, like the news or even a soap opera. “But, Mammmma! We were watching that!” “Uh, no you weren’t….” *Note to self – Do not argue with this! A mother will not win!* But, at night the TV is mine! So, below are 13 of my must see TV shows that I watch, listed in no particular order.

1) Cake Boss – I am completely fascinated with designer cakes. They are absolutely beautiful. This is something I have no patience to make so watching someone else make them is the next best thing. Plus watching Italians in a bakery. Hysterical!

2) Hell’s Kitchen – I have watched almost EVERY season of this show. I love to cook so cooking shows are like my all time favorite shows! I also bought the Hell’s Kitchen game for my DSi and mastered it in a week! LOL Sure, Chef Ramsay’s language is a bit explicative, but that’s what makes it so entertaining.

3) Teen Mom – At first I hated the whole 16 & Pregnant concept. I even refused to watch it. Then one day my curiosity got the best of me and I watched the first season of Teen Mom when MTV ran a marathon. I even watched the second season of 16 & Pregnant (I would really like some updates on these girls! Listening MTV?) and am now watching the second season of Teen Mom, which is still chronicling the lives of some of the original 16 & Pregnant and Teen Mom girls.

4) If You Really Knew Me – This is a new show that comes on right after the original airing of Teen Mom. I only began watching it because I just never changed the channel one night (LAZY!! LOL). It was actually really good. It talks about the different cliques in high school and then explores the people individually and shows why they may act the way they do.

5) Rescue Me – I began watching this series is first season solely because it was about firefighting and more importantly FDNY. I stopped watching for maybe 2 years and sadly since beginning to watch again this season, I am not lost at all. It’s actually pretty sad that I can miss 2 years and still understand everything! This has strong language and strong sexual themes so it is not for little ones at all.

6) The Colony – This show actually began last year, but I missed it. I decided I wanted to watch it this season after seeing the previews. It is also set in Chalmette, LA which is nearby. There has only been one episode so far and it is quickly becoming one of my favorite shows.

7) Dog the Bounty Hunter – I absolutely love this show. I only began watching it a couple of years ago but I have seen every single episode. All I can say is the Chapman family rocks!!

8) Real World: New Orleans – I have never been a fan of the Real World – ever! But I wanted to watch this season solely because they were in New Orleans. The show concept has not grown on me still, but I watch to see my beloved NOLA! For the record, I also tried to watch the Washington DC one. That lasted 2 episodes before I was done with it.

9) Ghost Adventures – I found this show one night while flipping through channels. Actually it was a marathon and I watched about 5 episodes of it that night. I was instantly hooked. I love ghost stories. Period. Good ghosts, bad ghosts, makes me no difference. I can’t say I believe 100% because I have never had an experience with a ghost but with the same token, I can’t say 100% that they don’t exist either. But, I would so go ghost hunting in a heartbeat!

10) Pawn Stars – This show is so cool! Some of this stuff that people pawn is so interesting. And some is such junk! LOL I watch this when I remember it’s on or when I’m flipping through channels and see it. I just saw that TruTV is starting one as well based in Detroit (Pawn Stars is located in Las Vegas).

11) 24 Hour Restaurant – I watched this show once, but it quickly grew on me. Two teams are given 24 hours to decorate a restaurant, plan a menu and open it. They are given $4,000 to spend on décor and food (menu must have at least one each of appetizer, entrée and dessert). They are given painters, a sous chef and waiters to assist. Customers then choose the restaurant they want to eat at based on décor and menu. Judges then eat at both restaurants and determine a winner based on the "concept, execution and viability" of the restaurant. The only episode I watched was called “The Battle of the Italians”. Perfectly fitting…..

12) Law and Order: SVU – I have seen every. single. episode. At least twice a piece, if not more. USA runs a marathon every Tuesday (usually) and sometimes even on a weekend. This is my absolute favorite of the Law and Order series. Hands down!

13) Kendra – Kendra was always my favorite on Girls Next Door. I think it’s because our personalities were so much alike. So, when she got her own show I started watching it. And will continue to until they stop making them!

Hop on over to Thursday 13 and link up with your list of 13.

Way Back When - esday: Christmas

2010-07-28T03:51:00.000-05:00

Timeline: December 2007
Ages: Crystina - 9 years old; Carolyn - 5 years old; Caitlyn and Charlotte - 2 years old; Cheyenne and Courtney - 2 months old

This was the baby twins 1st Christmas. Notice how Carolyn is not sitting like a proper young lady? Cheyenne is acting like a drama queen. Caitlyn and Charlotte have had enough of pictures. Tina looks asleep. What a lively bunch I have! Visit Twinfactuation to see more Way Back When - esday!

Happy Birthday to......

2010-07-28T02:08:00.001-05:00

ME!!!
Crystal Fact: Crystal was born on July 28 at 3:08 am EST.
On July 28, 1978 at 3:08 am EST, I entered this world, so Happy Birthday to me!!!

What I Learned This Week: Hodge Podge

2010-07-27T02:12:00.006-05:00

Welcome to another edition of "What I Learned This Week". It'll be another pointless, completely random hodge podge of information. As usual. But, hey, maybe someone can actually find something useful. Or fascinating.

Well, if you read yesterday's blog (Forget Tropical Storm Bonnie...), then you know the first thing I have learned is to never, ever, ever, and I mean ever! leave a $25 can of formula out on the counter. Especially cans that have only had one bottle made out of it. Odds are, it'll end up on the floor courtesy of my ~~evil spawn~~ precious children.

Second, have you ever seen the show You're Cut Off! on VH1? Oh. My. Gosh. It is so freaking hilarious. You know how all of us "normal folk" always dream of living the "good life"? Well, this show takes the high maintenance socialites and makes them live like us normal people. They have to do chores, give up their credit cards and money, grocery shop on a budget. I absolutely love this show! Watching it now as I type this. And it was the finale. The families gave these spoiled rich chicks new rules to live by in order to graduate and come home. One got all hot and all because her mom said that she wasn't going to pay for her tanning anymore! Haha! At the end of the show it said that she has downgraded and gone from tanning beds to spray tans. Then one's husband said that there would be no more housekeeper and she, at first, said that she couldn't accept these terms then finally broke down and agreed just to go home. Oh, to be rich and spoiled.....

Third, have you ever noticed that all the good shows always come on the same day at the same time? Why is this? When Chris was flipping through the channels, I saw a preview for a show called "The Colony" (apparently this is the second season. I must've missed last year's). This season premieres tonight at 9 pm CST. So, I go to look at my Cozi calendar (hey, it came free on my laptop. Figured I'd try it out). Yes, I use a calendar to keep up with the shows I watch. Otherwise I forget! And I realize that I watch 2 other shows at 9 pm! WTH? But, yet my Thursdays and Saturdays are completely empty. Well, luckily The Colony replays at midnight so I guess I'll be watching TV on Tuesdays from 7 pm - 1 am! (Hell's Kitchen, Master Chef, Teen Mom, Rescue Me, and The Colony). I never remember Tuesdays being the best day for TV. Times sure have changed....

And I spent all afternoon Monday stalking the New Orleans Hornets websites waiting for word on the CP3 (Chris Paul) situation. Staying? Being traded? I was just impatient for the word..... So, with that I've learned that my husband is probably one of the luckiest men in the world. While I am not the type of wife who ~~is willing to~~ ~~likes to~~ will cook and clean (no, let me rephrase that. I LOVE to cook. It's the cleaning that has me desiring sticking a pencil in my eye... But I digress...) and I will delegate as many chores to my children that are ~~legally~~ allowed. I even resort to bribing my kids to do chores so its less I gotta do. While I'm not the June Cleaver type of wifey, I will sit down and watch sports, argue with him over sports, ~~threaten to kick his a$$ if he downs my team~~, etc.... I have witnessed his jaw drop when I am the first one to turn the TV to Sports Center because I am the one who wants to watch it. I realize that there are other women like me, but there are probably a lot of men in the world that wish their wife, girlfriend, whatever is like this.

While watching the above mentioned show, You're Cut Off! and reflecting on Saturday's blog - I Am Who I Am, Part Deux, I learned that if I had the money to spend on myself, I would definitely be a prospective candidate for the show. I can just see Chris standing there at the Graduation show reading me his list of new rules - "Crystal, you must start cleaning house. You can no longer buy yourself shoes and purses and jewelry. No more clothing shopping sprees; you already have enough clothes that you hardly wear. No more tattoos. No more tanning beds and manicures and pedicures."

Hostess of show - "Crystal, do you accept these new rules that enable you to graduate and go home?"

Me - "Uh, H*ll f*ck NO!"

Stay tuned for next week's edition. I think I'm going to start calling this "Crystal's Completely Random and Useless Hodge Podge of What I Learned This Week" blog post. Nah, that's too long to type every week!

Hop on over and visit Julie at From Inmates to Playdates and see what else you can learn through someone else!

Forget Tropical Storm Bonnie....

2010-07-26T07:26:00.000-05:00

She had nothing on my kids this weekend. While the Coast Guard/BP were busy pulling vessels out of the Gulf from the Oil Spill site and our parish president was busy strategizing for possible flooding (it takes nothing to flood down here!), my kids were in the Hurricane stage. If they could tear it up, they did!

They have gotten smart and have learned that when they wake up, to be very quiet so Mommy and Daddy won't hear them. The younger ones have also learned that they can pull a fast one over on their big sisters, Tina and Carly, and can wreck havoc even in their care! So, Mommy made a mistake and left the can of baby formula on the counter Friday night. Yeah, bad me! I had about half of a 12.9 oz can of powdered formula left. I walk out to tend to Connor. I come back and the kids have dumped it out and played in it. Aghhhh!!!! So, I call Chris and ask him to stop by the store and grab a can on his way home from work. I knew it was ok because Connor had just finished a bottle and wouldn't want one again until after he got home. Chris stops by the local Walgreen's and gets the larger can of formula (23.2 oz can of powdered). I make Connor his early morning bottle (2 am) and dumb me, left the can sitting right there on the counter -- AGAIN! (definition of insanity -- repeating the same action over and over expecting different results) Well, I wake up 5 hours later and the whole freaking can is dumped all over the floor! The kids were all asleep so my best guess is they woke up and wrecked havoc overnight or we have a ghost! (By the way -- is it illegal to lock your kids in their room? And baby gates are useless! They're monkeys; they climb them!) So, Chris (had to go back to work for a couple of hours that morning) assured me he would stop and get another can on the way home. I figured Connor would be ok until then. If anything, I had jarred foods for him and could water down some juice until Chris got home. Well, a few hours later (was only supposed to be 2 but ended up being 5 hours!) he brought another large can home. Now, the small 12 oz cans of powder usually last us 2-3 days so I figured the larger cans should've lasted about a week. So, far the kids had dumped 8 days worth of formula on the floor!! I fix Connor an afternoon bottle and he takes a nap. I leave the can on the counter, but miraculously its still there later in the evening when I go to fix his next bottle. I fix his nighttime bottle and leave it there again. Hey, I figured it lasted this long and should be safe. WRONG!!!! I found it an hour or so later, all over the floor! So, now count it people -- 2 weeks worth of formula wasted! I was in tears. I called Chris, who was at work for his scheduled shift on Saturday, and I was like "Sit down." He was like, what? I told him the second $25 can of formula was dumped out. I finally decided that I was not buying Enfamil anymore. I found the Parent's Choice brand (23 oz powdered) for only $12. That's even cheaper than the 12 oz can of Enfamil! So far he has been good on it. And so, far the formula has stayed in the can. (Ok, maybe that's because I even sleep with it now! LOL)

Well, this morning I wake up at 5:30 am and find 3 of the 4 youngest girls eating the lunchables that were bought for today's lunch! Not only did they eat their own, they ate the other 3's too! As well as the hot dog buns for dinner tonight and decided to pour their own milk! Grrr......

I'm serious people! For some reason I'm thinking it's illegal in all 50 states to padlock them in a room. So, any advice on how to keep (quiet) wakers and climbers out of everything???

And, no, I did not take any pictures of the powdered mess(es). I have them burned into memory and every time I picture them, the vein in my forehead starts popping out. And I start thinking, "Oh, bring on a tropical storm cause right now they ain't got nothing on my kids!"

QOTW: Stay at Home Moms vs. Working Moms

2010-07-25T12:28:00.001-05:00

This week's question of the week touches on a topic that is sensitive for a lot of moms- the subject of whether to stay at home with the kids, or work outside the home. Having done both, I can see that neither are the ideal situation at all times, and the choice you make depends on any number of personal factors. There is one thing that we all know; and that is that the grass is always greener on the other side! So today, let's share our experiences and see if we can learn something about life "on the other side"!

Do you work outside the home, or stay home with your kids?

■How did you come to that decision? Are you glad that you made that decision?
I stay at home with my kids now. When my oldest was a baby, I worked for 8 months, then again a few years later for a few months. I worked again when my second child was 2 years old for 7 months (until my doctor took me out for bed rest with my first set of multiples). After that there was no way I could afford daycare for all my kids. My check would be for nothing but daycare and its not worth it in my opinion if its not contributing to the household (other than daycare).

■What is your favorite aspect of working, or of staying at home? Your least favorite aspect?
My favorite aspect of staying at home is being with my kids and seeing all their milestones. I also home school them all so I see all their educational accomplishments first hand as well. My least favorite aspect would probably be that I am with them all the time. Sometimes, it seems like I never have "me" time. However, I wouldn't trade it for anything!

■If you stay at home, did you have to make adjustments to your lifestyle in order to make this work?
Too a point, yes. As I said before, any job I had would've only paid daycare and now with 5 under age 5, it wouldn't have even covered that. So, whether I stayed home or not really didn't affect our lifestyle. Having kids in the first place is what affected our lifestyle. With her birth is when we gave up all the fun things. (However, at tax time, we take any remaining refund after bills and spend on luxuries for all of us. Usually not much! LOL).

■Do you plan to continue what you are doing now, or will you make a change in the future?
I am currently in college working towards my Associate's in Accounting and then my Bachelor's in Accounting (as well as an Associate's in Maritime Logistics (Management). I plan to work when I am done with school (and by then I won't have as many, if any, in daycare).

■What advice would you give to a mom who is pregnant, and trying to decide whether to stay home with her kids, or go back to work?
I would say to sit down and think hard about it. First, and foremost, do you NEED to work and if you did, would your bring home pay be greater than the daycare and transportation expense. If not, then you and your spouse need to formulate a plan of living off of one salary. Also, some mother's just can't handle not being there with their kids during their early years and wait until they are in school to go back to work. The only thing that matters is what works for YOUR family and not worry about someone else's situations. If you decide to work, then you will come across mothers who will try to belittle you for working instead of staying home. Ignore them. And if you decide to stay at home, you will come across working mothers that are jealous that you got to stay home when they didn't and they will come across as mean. Ignore them. You do not need to validate your parenting decisions to anyone!

I Am Who I Am, Part Deux

2010-07-24T16:00:00.000-05:00

And guess what? Still not looking for approval!

I re-read what I wrote last week and realized that there is more to me than just sports. It really made me look like a major tomboy. But, that’s not true. While I will admit that I am a part tomboy, there are other layers to me.

Some may say that I am not girly girl at all. That is the furthest thing from the truth. I can 99% assure you that if I didn’t have all the kids right now and more money to spend on me, I would be girly girl. I did walk into one store last year and spend $500 on clothes for me. I did at one time have hundreds of dollars of makeup. I love jewelry and have seen several sites I could spend a small fortune on right now. I like going to the salon and getting my hair done. I love getting manicures and pedicures. I used to get my nails done every other week. I love going to the tanning bed. But, right now with all the kids and their ~~needs~~ wants, there is no extra money left for me. I dream of the day I can be so high maintenance again. Maybe once I finish college, I can be….

And shoes and purses? Do you realize how many I could own if I had the money? I would have a closet full of just shoes and purses. Right now I own 1 purse! Just one and I so desperately want a new one. I bought this one last year when I first got to Louisiana. It had two of my favorite things on it: the Fleur-de-lis and the color pink.

Now, for anyone who wants further verification that I am a girly girl who just happens to love sports, here is a Crystal Fact. Crystal Fact: Crystal's favorite color is and has always been PINK! Below is exhibit A: my pink laptop, my pink headphones, my pink phone, my pink flash drive and my pink Nintendo DSi.

Surfin' Saturdays

2010-07-24T14:54:00.000-05:00

Welcome!

Aloha Friday! (#3)

2010-07-23T23:45:00.000-05:00

Thursday 13: Bucket List

2010-07-22T07:51:00.000-05:00

We all have a bucket list; you know a list of things we want to accomplish before we “kick the bucket”. While my list may be longer than 13, I’m going to share 13 off my list with you. I will, at a later date, post my entire bucket list. So, here are 13 items off my “Bucket List”, in no particular order:

1. Visit Italy
2. Attend a Home Saints game at the Superdome
3. Visit Hawaii
4. Own a Mazda Miata
5. Graduate college
6. Skydive
7. Learn to cook Chicken Marsala
8. Own a house
9. Visit NYC
10. Own a restaurant
11. Learn Italian
12. Lose my “baby fat”
13. Go scuba diving

Hop on over to Thursday 13 and see other’s lists of 13 things!

Way Back When - esday: Halloween

2010-07-21T07:49:00.000-05:00

This Wednesday I chose my 2 oldest kids (singletons) to feature.

Crystina and Carolyn
October 31, 2005
Ages 7 and 3

Crystina was a Glitter Witch and Carolyn was a Snow Fairy.

Hop on over to Twinfatuation to see more!

The Noise I Learned This Week!

2010-07-20T07:48:00.000-05:00

My baby boy, my only son, Mama's little boy. He is just too adorable for words!

But, I have learned a little something about this precious angel....

This angelic, beautiful creature, that I love more than life itself,
snores like a horse! No lie! He rivals some adults I have heard! It's the cutest thing ever! And its reassuring since I can now hear him at night! LOL Check out From Inmates to Playdates to read more What I Learned This Week!

Bayou Baby????

2010-07-19T09:19:00.001-05:00

Connor Jamison -- almost 5 months
With the Mardi Gras Alligator

I have numerous nicknames for my children. I'm surprised they even know what to answer to anymore. One nickname I have for Connor and have always had for him was "Bayou Baby". After the gender ultrasound, it became "Bayou Boy". He was conceived while I lived in "the Bayou" and ultimately born down in the Bayou (you know not really in the bayou but you get the point.

This was one nickname I was always getting questions about. I figured it was pretty self - explanatory but ya know?

And for the record I cannot wait until his first birthday. Since Mardi Gras is in March in 2011 he gets King Cake for his birthday. Yay!!!

QOTW: Crying It Out

2010-07-18T05:40:00.000-05:00

The subject of CIO, (or "crying-it-out") is hotly debated and quite controversial to many people. As parents, we know that what works for other families, doesn't always work for our own. As parents of multiples, we are quick to learn that sometimes one or more children may have to wait for the attention they are seeking, and there is just no getting around that. This week's Multiples and More Question of the Week is:

How do you feel about CIO?

Charlotte and Caitlyn
Oct. 2005 -- 1 week old

■Did you use this method for sleep training? Are you against it?
I have never used this method for sleep training with any of my children. I am personally against it. However, I will not belittle someone who does it. Parenting styles are a personal choice and CIO is just not one of mine.

■If you are against it, do you feel that it is damaging in any way to a child? Why?
Well, I wouldn't say damaging per say. I believe that a baby cries for a reason. It's up to us as parents to figure out the reason. I don't think that babies truly throw temper tantrums. Now, if one of my older children wants to throw a temper tantrum because they can't have their way, then they will throw the tantrum. I can't comfort anger like that. I'll stay around so they know that I am still there for them; just not giving in to their demands.

■How well did/do your multiples sleep?
They have their moments. Some times they only cat nap. Some days they sleep for long hours. I have 7 children total so I am used to little or no sleep.

■Do you think you are/were more likely to allow a child to CIO because he/she is a multiple?
No! I would be too afraid of the crying baby waking the sleeping baby. Or if they were both awake and need something, I still have to provide. CIO was never an option for me with any child.

■What instances do you think it is appropriate, or inappropriate to allow a child to CIO?
Like I said before, if the child is throwing a temper tantrum then I will let them continue. I will stay in the same room and reassure them every so often that I am there and willing to listen when they wish to talk calmly. I would never put my child in a room alone screaming just because.

Courtney and Cheyenne
Feb. 2008 -- 4 months old
Courtney crying because she didn't want to take pictures. I did them anyway!

Head on over to Multiples.... and More! to read other opinions.

I Am Who I Am.....

2010-07-17T05:17:00.000-05:00

And your approval is not needed!

Many people have called me a complicated person. Granted many of them were men and well, let's face it. Women are complicated in a man's mind. But, in reality, I am not complicated at all. I am a fairly simple person. Simple things matter most to me. I know what I want in life, maybe not always how to get there, but I know what I want!

I am who I am and I like what Iike. I will watch a football game from start to finish. I will understand 95% of what is going on. I know all the players on my team and I know the big names around the NFL. I will yell at the television. I will call refs expletives and I can get overly excited. And I will trash talk you. That's me. I mean nothing personal against you. I could care less who you like but if you play my team that week, then its on. Oh, but if you like the Dallas Cowboys, then I will be trash talking you on a regular basis. I just ~~have an immense dislike for~~ hate them.

You will catch me, on occasion, watching a NBA game. Usually its the New Orleans Hornets. I may not be able to follow this one as well as NFL, but I do try. If you ask who I root for, I'll tell you the New Orleans Hornets..... and whoever is playing the Lakers. In my defense, I liked the Hornets when they first started in Charlotte and the year Muggsy Bogues started with them. And I'll be honest. My girly girl side kicked in and I chose them because of their team colors. But, I always stayed a fan. So, hey I can say I have been a fan since Day 1. That's pretty cool. I guess. LOL However, with all the LeBron hype going on, I now hate the Miami Heat. Almost as much as I hate the Lakers. But, now they are at the bottom of my list until LeBron leaves them. Yes, I take my sports seriously.... I watch sports more than soap operas.

On we go to baseball. I have been an Atlanta Braves fan since oh, about 1992. This happened because I sat down with my granddaddy to watch TV and he was watching an Atlanta Braves game. This is how the Braves became my favorite team. I turned into such a baseball fanatic that I could give you the entire team's statistics for the 1994 season. That was also my 16th birthday. While most girls want flowery, prissy cakes I asked for a baseball cake. Which I got. It was decorated as the baseball diamond and then they took pictures of my 4 favorite players -- Steve Avery (p), Javy Lopez (c), David Justice (RF) and Ryan Klesko (LF) -- and made them into the edible cake pictures and put them on the cake. Yeah, I was in heaven.... That was also the year I called my high school baseball team a bunch of p*ss*es because they couldn't play as good as the pros. You know, as I write this, I realize my son is in for a crazy time when he starts playing sports. Great, I'm going to be one of *those* moms. Apparently I also have a thing for the position of catcher. My past favorite player was Javy Lopez who was catcher. My current favorite player is Brian McCann, a catcher. Hmmmm..... This is another sport where I get heavily emotionally invested. Umpires will get called "Blind, stupid M-F'ers" and if you screw up a play, I'm ready to fire you myself. I guess I would 100% be banned from venues if I were an owner/manager/coach. I'm the female Mark Cuban.... Wonderful......

I guess we should move on. since, you know, I've already knocked myself down a few pegs and all....

For minor league baseball, I used to be all about the Tides when I lived in Virginia. But, simply for the fact that it was where I lived. I switched to the New Orleans Zephyrs when I moved to Louisiana. Don't like that I switched? Oh, well... Deal with it. I didn't really like the Tides just rooted for the "home" team.

As for a baseball team I hate it would be the Yankees. Do I hate them because they win all the time? Nope. I hated them even in their bad years. I've hated them since I started watching baseball. I think Jeter and A-Rod are overrated. I can also *if I sat down and really thought about it* name some players on other teams that are extremely overrated. Just get back to me on that, k?

Now, hockey.... I really can't watch a hockey game. Every now and then I can watch it for 5 or 10 minutes then I'm done. However, I root for the Carolina Hurricanes. Why? I really don't know. I guess because at the time I was picking favorites I still lived in Virginia -- right between the Washington Capitols and the Carolina Hurricanes. So, I chose Carolina. End of story. I'm going to *try* and keep up with hockey this year. Yeah, wish me luck. On the "team I hate list" for NHL its Detroit. Always has been and always will be. I did claim to like the Anaheim Ducks at one point. That was just cause of the whole Mighty Ducks trilogy going on. When I discovered the movies had nothing to do with the team, I shrugged it off. Hey, I was a young'un. I'm entitled to a mistake here or there.

So, what am I leaving out? Oh, NCAA sports. I am LSU all.the.way. Without a doubt. Without a hesitation. Yep, I even keep up with NCAA baseball. I'm a sports dork. Yes, I know. And for the record, around the Final 8 time, I called South Carolina as this year's College World Series winner. Made me 3 for 4 for the year thus far. But that'll be later on down. I will also cheer for the University of Miami (FL). But they will ALWAYS be #2.

I do not watch soccer at this point. I have considered trying to get into it. But, to be honest I have no clue what the teams are. And I only know of 2 players. Beckham and Landon Donovan. I did follow the FIFA World Cup. I didn't watch it, but I followed the scores and teams. I cheered for the USA, of course, until they were knocked out. Then I chose Spain. Well, they took it all.

I used to be all into NASCAR. I had all sorts of memorabilia. I used to know stats, crews, everything. Now I could care less. My favorite was Dale Earnhardt, Sr. After his death, I chose Tony Stewart. I still pull for him. I just choose not to watch it.

Now, I mentioned before I was 3 for 4. That was for championships. For the Super Bowl, I called the Saints (duh!), for the NBA I called the Celtics (they let me down.), for College World Series I called South Carolina (keep it in the SEC!) and for FIFA World Cup I called Spain (in the Final 8 or so. The bracket right after the USA got knocked out).

Did I forget a sport? But, my point is - Don't criticize me for liking sports. Yes, I'm a girl. Yes, I like girly things. But I also like my sports. Don't knock it.

Aloha Friday! (#2)

2010-07-16T05:15:00.000-05:00

Thursday 13: Random MP3 Songs

2010-07-15T13:41:00.000-05:00

Ok. For this week's Thursday 13, I am setting my MP3 player to random and will list the first 13 songs that play.

OMG (Usher feat. Will I. Am)

Like We Never Loved At All (Tim McGraw and Faith Hill)

Pocket Full of Sunshine (Natasha Bedingfield)

Going Under (Evenescence)

Breakdown (Seether)

Someday (Nickelback)

I Gotta Stay Fly (Three 6 Mafia)

Not Afraid (Eminem)

Mississippi Girl (Faith Hill)

Forever (Papa Roach)

Not Meant To Be (Theory of A Deadman)

Only Seventeen (Winger)

Bring 'Em to the Dome (Dee-1 and Shamarr Allan)

And it was a strange 13 out of 350+ songs I have. Luckily, you got the PG version of my playlist..... You didn't even get the full range of music I listen to.

Now hop on over to Thursday 13 and see other lists of 13!

2010 ESPYs

2010-07-15T05:13:00.000-05:00

ESPN hosted the 2010 ESPY Awards on July 14th. I, quite honestly, enjoyed this award show. I ended up hearing so many quotes during the host, Seth Meyers, dialogue. I’ll share just a few of his little “gems” that had me rolling.

About Lebron James’ 1 hour ESPN special announcing where he was playing next season:
"Did it really need to be an hour? Somebody time me. Miami. How long did that take? A second."

This led into a spoof of “The Decision”

Then, Meyers reassured the Cavs fans:
"Literally every single team that's ever won a Championship has done it without LeBron James."

Ahhh…. So true. And I, a sworn Lakers hater, hereby hope that any team BESIDES the Heat win the championship every year that Lebron is in Miami. Really prefer anyone over the Lakers but definitely don’t want the Heat to win. Yes, I’m mean. Deal with it.

Let’s not forget when Meyers was explaining what the ESPYs are all about – entertainment and sports. Which he compared to some famous sisters:

"This is where sports and entertainment come together. It's like a Kardashian sister's bedroom."

Oh, the look on Reggie Bush’s face since ESPN panned over to see his reaction!

And of course the night would not have been complete without a few jabs at good old Tiger Woods:

"We all know which free agent is making the most money this summer -- Elin Nordegren." And, "Everyone, give it up for Tiger Woods, if you haven't already."

Below are the winners (my thoughts are in purple):
Arthur Ashe Courage Award: Aplington-Parkersburg (Iowa) High School coach Ed Thomas' family (I totally teared up during this presentation! Read the story here.)
Jimmy V Award For Perseverance: George Karl, Denver Nuggets coach
Best Female Athlete: Lindsey Vonn, Olympic skier (I completely thought Serena Williams had this one!)
Best Male Athlete: Drew Brees, New Orleans Saints (I was thrilled with this one although he had some tough competition.)
Best Comeback: Kim Clijsters, tennis player (I can’t even find the list of other nominees for this one)
Best Performance Under Pressure: Landon Donovan, soccer (Sure. None of the others stood out to me)
Best Moment: Landon Donovan, World Cup soccer, U.S. vs. Algeria (Ummm…. Can we say “unhappy”? It’s not even the fact that the Saints didn’t win although Hello! First Super Bowl Appearance in its 43 year history and they won? But the other two nominees were the Canadian Figure Skater that skated at the Olympics right after her mom died and Mickleson winning the Masters not knowing his wife who was battling cancer was there. One of those 2 were more deserving than the soccer team. But, whatever…..)
Best Team: New Orleans Saints (Over the moon with this one!)
Best Coach/Manager: Phil Jackson, Los Angeles Lakers (Really wanted Sean Payton to get this one)
Best Game: Canada vs. USA, Olympic men's hockey gold-medal game (OK, they can have this one)
Best Championship Performance: Drew Brees, New Orleans Saints (YES!!!)
Best Play: Brett Favre, Minnesota Vikings (NO! Besides the fact I don’t like “Mr. Needs to Retire”, but the baseball play that was nominated was way better!)
Best Upset: Northern Iowa over Kansas, NCAA tournament (Sure, they can have that one)
Best Breakthrough Athlete: Chris Johnson, Tennessee Titans (I thought Stephen Strasburg of the Washington Nationals had this one. But, I can deal with Chris Johnson)
Best Record Breaking Performance: John Isner vs. Nicolas Mahut, longest match in tennis history at Wimbledon (sure. Although shouldn’t that fast little Jamaican man deserve to win?)
Best Sports Movie: "The Blind Side" (This was a given)
College Athletic Program: Duke men's athletics and Stanford women's athletics (ok. I don’t know the other nominees)
Best Baseball Player: Albert Pujols, St. Louis Cardinals (I really thought that Jeter was gonna win)
Best NBA Player: Kobe Bryant, Los Angeles Lakers (Blech! I didn’t want him, Lebron or Dwayne Wade to win)
Best WNBA Player: Diana Taurasi, Phoenix Mercury (Don’t follow)
Best NFL Player: Drew Brees, New Orleans Saints (Woohoo!!!)
Best NHL Player: Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh Penguins (I don’t follow hockey players, just teams)
Best MLS Player: Landon Donovan, Los Angeles Galaxy (Don’t follow)
Best Male Action Sports Athlete: Shaun White, skateboarding/snowboarding (Don’t follow)
Best Female Action Sports Athlete: Torah Bright, snowboarding (Don’t follow)
Best Bowler: Walter Ray Williams Jr. (That was a given)
Best Driver: Jimmie Johnson (BOOOOO!!!!! But, it was a given)
Best Fighter: Floyd Mayweather (Sure. Although my fave of the nominees was Georges St. Pierre)
Best Male Golfer: Phil Mickelson (This was my choice. I didn’t know the second nominee and Tiger is on my sh*t list)
Best Female Golfer: Lorena Ochoa (Don’t follow)
Best Jockey: Calvin Borel (Don’t follow)
Best Male Tennis Player: Roger Federer (Don’t follow)
Best Female Tennis Player: Serena Williams (That was a given)
Best U.S. Male Olympian: Shaun White (Sure)
Best U.S. Female Olympian: Lindsey Vonn (Sure)
Best Track and Field Athlete: Usain Bolt (Don’t follow)
Best Male College Athlete: John Wall, Kentucky basketball (Don’t follow individual players)
Best Female College Athlete: Maya Moore, Connecticut basketball (Don’t follow individual players)
Best Male Athlete with a Disability: Steve Cash, hockey (OK)
Best Female Athlete with a Disability: Amy Palmiero-Winters, track and field (OK)

There was also a spoof of the movie; The Blind Side entitled The Dark Side. I laughed so hard. I would honestly go watch it if they ever made it!

Now, my favorite football team – The New Orleans Saints – won 4 awards in some capacity. Drew Brees won the Best Championship Performance and Best NFL Player awards during the Pre-Show. He also won Best Male Athlete. Here he is accepting his award:

Photo from ESPN

He also gave a shout out to the “Who Dat Nation” which I thought was awesome!
"I'd also like to thank the Who Dat nation," Brees said. "We love you." (Awwwww, Drew! We all love you too!)

Then came time for the Big Award. The one for Best Team. I was a little concerned about this one because the LA Lakers and NY Yankees were also nominees. I have no doubt that the Saints are better than both of them combined (you must know by now that I hate the Lakers and the Yankees), but you never know how these things will go. Kenny Chesney was the presenter. He made a little statement about the relationship between a sports team and its fans:

“Favorite players come and go
But our favorite team is forever
Passed down from generation to generation
Like a family heirloom
Our teams represent our home town
Our father’s home town
We don’t just root for them
We live for them
We don’t just wear their colors
We bleed their colors
And win or lose we believe that our team is the best”

Yes, Mr. Chesney… No truer words have been spoken. Although I am the first generation Saints fan, but hey, it’s gotta start somewhere! Then came the announcement….. The fans have decided the ESPY goes to…..

Photo from ESPN

Dat’s right, Da Saints!!! I was ecstatic! It totally made up for the Saints losing Best Moment to the USA Soccer Team. Well, at least in my eyes! But, you know….

"We were playing more than just football," said Sean Payton (NO Saints Head Coach), in his acceptance speech for the best team at the ESPY Awards. "We were playing for the region, for our city, beginning in 2006 after [Hurricane] Katrina and culminating this February in Miami."

And the Drought Is Over!

2010-07-14T12:51:00.000-05:00

Since my favorite baseball team is the Atlanta Braves, I naturally cheer for the National League every year in the All-Star Game. The last time the NL has won an All-Star Game was in 1996! 14 years ago! So, believe me, last night when the NL won 3-1 I was ecstatic. And if it hadn't been so late at night, I would've been screaming like it was the World Series or something!

And to make it even better, the game MVP was Braves catcher Brian McCann. That made the win oh so much better for me!

Way Back When - esday: Tony's Littlest Fans!

2010-07-14T10:53:00.000-05:00

My favorite NASCAR driver was always Dale Earnhardt, Sr. So, after his passing in 2001, I had to pick a new favorite driver. That slot was filled by Tony Stewart. When I found out I was pregnant with twins, I immediately started loving the idea of buying 2 of everything just alike. (Of course, I do not feel that way now! LOL) Well, since I had no idea of the sex of either at 8 weeks, the first thing I bought was matching Tony Stewart socks.

Timeline: Early November 2005
Age: about 3 weeks old

Then I made this one:

Head on over to Twinfatuation to see more Way Back When - esdays!

What I Learned This Week: The Randomness of My Life

2010-07-13T11:29:00.000-05:00

They say knowledge is power. So, exactly what is it I have power over? I’ve got knowledge. Knowledge of important stuff, knowledge of trivial stuff, knowledge of absolutely nothing. I am known as “Google Queen” because if I don’t know something, I WILL Google it. But, sometimes I come across little gems of info out of the clear blue.

For instance, this week I learned that when I give my 5 month old flavored Tylenol for his fever, he comes to expect that flavor ALL the time. Why can’t they make flavored Enfamil? I mean they flavor medicine but not formula?

I learned, the hard way, that I am not superwoman. I have a history of migraines and when one hit last night, I thought I’d take the high road and brave it out. Yeah, not a good idea! My head was pounding. All light made it worse. All noise made it worse. I got nauseous. Connor was in a mood (teething, I think) and wanted to cry. Oh, not good for a pounding headache. I tried drinking caffeine. Nothing. I tried eating. Took one bite and wanted to hurl. Finally, I broke down and sent the hubby to Walgreen’s for some Excedrin Migraine (also, they have them on SALE. 100 gel tabs for $7.99!) Took 3 and 2 hours later I was awake and headache free. And had to re-heat my dinner.

I learned this week that planning my semester classes is harder than planning for childbirth for me. I make a list of classes I need/want. Scratch through them. Make a new list. Scratch through it. Repeat. Until my schedule is made up of classes combined from all of them. Then I have to stare at it on my screen for half an hour before I will hit “Submit”. I settled on 4 classes, 14 credits, after months of agonizing over it.

I learned this week that my kids can, and lately will, sleep in shifts. I think they do this because they think I am absolutely beautiful with only 2 hours of sleep a day. Gotta love this bunch!

I learned this week that my 5 month old son can take off his own diaper. Wonderful news! Apparently he is going to be a genius!

Now, hop on over and visit Julie at From Inmates to Playdates to see what others have learned this week.

QOTW: To Sleep or Not to Sleep......

2010-07-11T08:09:00.001-05:00

This week's Multiples and More Question of the Week is:

How do you encourage healthy sleep habits in your children?

Twins, Part 1
Charlotte and Caitlyn
Oct. 2005
A few days old

■When they were infants, how did you get your babies to sleep/nap at the same time?
I never had a problem with them not sleeping at the same time. Some times I wish one would have been awake when the other one was asleep so I could've had more one - on - one time with them. It never happened though. I guess I'm considered lucky in the sense that they were on the same schedule since birth.

■If they wake up early from a nap, how did/do you handle that?
My philosophy on babies sleeping is they slept when sleepy. So, in a sense, there was no waking up early from a nap.

■Do you have a minimum amount of time that you want your babies to sleep, or at least rest in their cribs for?
No. I. of course, wanted them to get the healthy amount of daily sleep but I didn't expect more than that.

■Napping transitions (this is a big one!): How did/do you handle the situation of going from two naps to one, when one child is ready and the other(s) were not?
I really saw no difference. But then again, I had 2 singletons before my first set of twins so if one wanted to be awake, I already had kids awake.

■If you have older multiples- how did the transition to toddler beds affect their sleep patterns? When did naps *gasp* come to an end?
Naps ended around 1 year - 18 months. They just decided naps were no longer desired. If they do fall asleep for a nap in the early afternoon, they will be up half the night *sigh* . They went straight from cribs/my bed to a regular bed.

Wow... apparently I have life pretty easy. I never realized it.... LOL

Twins, Part 2
Courtney and Cheyenne
Oct. 2007
A few weeks old
Hop on over to Multiples.... and More! to read other responses!

Another Semester......

2010-07-10T08:08:00.000-05:00

Well, on the 6th I pre-registered for my Fall 2010 classes. First, let me say that trying college after age 30 is a struggle. Throw in 7 demanding kids and guess what – even more a struggle. I have been working on my associate’s degree in Accounting for going on 3 years now. Yes, 3 years! I’m so much a perfectionist that if I do not get the grade I want the first time, I just re-take it. Yep, just go through the course a second time. For instance, Introduction to Accounting II. I didn’t like my grade the first time so I re-took it the next semester. Let’s not forget Computerized Accounting. Easy class, but the first time I took it, my printer/scanner was messed up so I didn’t turn in a test (or 2) until I got it fixed. So, boom failed it the first time. Re-took it and passed it. Like I said easy class. And then I took some classes I wish I could kick myself in the rear for. Like for my humanities I took Greek Mythology. I DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS CLASS. PERIOD. But, since I failed it, I have to take a different Humanities course for my credit. And, let’s not forget that not only am I doing 2 Accounting certificates and an Associate’s in accounting but also an Associate’s in Liberal Arts (to transfer for my Bachelor’s for Pre-Law). Plus, I like to take extra non-required courses just because I think it helps with my chosen profession. First one that comes to mind is Interpersonal Communication. Yeah, wasn’t what I thought, but I got an A so whatever!

Now, back to my original thoughts. I pre-registered online for my classes this next semester. So, here are the 4 classes you will hear me talk about from August – December: Intermediate Accounting II, Cost Accounting I (AGAIN), Beginning Spanish I (oh, please just be a refresher since I took 4 years in high school!) and Religions of the World (my 2nd attempt at a Humanities course). I also ordered my books and I laughed at the book list for Religions of the World – Complete Idiot’s Guide to World Religions. That was the funniest of them. The other book was Everything You Need to Know About Islam. Well, I don’t know anything about it so anything would be something new. I just thought it was hilarious that one of the books was called the Complete Idiot’s Guide. Hmmmm…. Guess that’s just my random self.

My semester begins on August 19th, so wait about a month after that and then you’ll hear about how behind I am or how much I hate some class, etc. I take all my classes online so there is no “real timeline” for class work. I always end up behind. And playing catch up the last week of classes.

Aloha Friday! (I)

2010-07-09T20:49:00.000-05:00

Thursday Thirteen -- Birthday Edition

2010-07-08T23:28:00.000-05:00

My birthday is in just 20 days! Yep, in 20 days I will begin a “new year” in my life. So, if anyone is wondering here is the list, in no particular order, of what you could buy me for my special day. I’m not expecting anything on this list and some of these are even impossible at this point, but hey, a woman can dream……

1. A Gift certificate for every item at the Fleurty Girl store in NOLA (I absolutely love this store!) Or at the very least a gift certificate for at least one shirt.
2. A gift certificate for the Black and Gold Sports Shop in Metairie. This will need to be a major amount because I have spent $500 in there at one time before!
3. Seasons 1-5 of Dog the Bounty Hunter plus the wedding special

4. The 2 books by Duane “Dog” Chapman

5. Season tickets for the New Orleans Saints (good luck with this since the waiting list is as long as me!)
6. The 3 new books I want – you know the ones by Drew Brees, Sean Payton and Kendra!

7. A Mazda Miata

8. Jeremy Shockey Miami Hurricanes Throwback Jersey

9. Gym membership with babysitter
10. Wrestlemania XXVII tickets
11. I’d say a gift certificate for tattoos, but I don’t think there is such a thing. So, money for my tattoos. I’m not sure how much since I haven’t designed them all yet, but enough to cover all the ones I have in the works would be great!
12. Money for the “medical procedures” I want done. And there are several of them. But, I prefer to keep them to myself.
13. But, since I know I won’t be getting the above 12, how about just send me a maid and a nanny for the day so I can relax!

Hop on over to Thursday 13 and see other’s lists of 13 things!

Way Back When - esday: Happy Birthday, Christian!

2010-07-07T14:36:00.000-05:00

Today is my nephew, Christian’s, 3rd birthday. Yep, he was born on 07/07/07! So, I’m sharing older pictures of him as well as newer ones.

Timeline: August 2007
Age: 1 month old

Timeline: July 2008
Age: 1 year

Timeline: July 2009
Age: 2 years

Timeline: March 2010
Age: Almost 3 years

Timeline: June 2010
Age: Almost 3 years

Hop on over and check out Twinfatuation for more Way Back When-esdays!

What I Learned This Week: Random Edition II

2010-07-06T18:28:00.000-05:00

I always learn the most random things, at the most random times. So, with no further adieu, here are this week’s random learnings.

• I learned that John Cena can keep my 4 year old daughter, Caitie, sitting still for hours. Who knew?
• I learned that Twitter is one cool invention. I started my personal twitter a little more than a year ago, but never used it. It was rather boring to me at the time. However in the last month or so, I have absolutely exploded in using it. I tweet when I’m bored. I tweet while watching shows (and linking up with the hashmark # before the show title so I can connect with others discussing it). It’s wild. More fascinating to me at this point than facebook.
• I learned that my children know no other channel EXCEPT Disney. Not that I don’t like their programming, but I would really like to watch something other than Disney.
• I learned that LeBron James IS all about himself. Don’t call me a hater; he’s just transparent as h-e-double hockey sticks. And for the record: Lebron James’ ego > his desire for a championship. Just saying… And no, I’m not bitter that he went to the Heat. I wasn’t a fan of the Cavs and my favorite team was never in contention to get him. I just don’t like him. Period. And even though I hate the Lakers, I’d prefer to see them win the next 5 championships than to see Lebron get one.

Wow…. Maybe I really didn’t learn all that much this week…. Or maybe since it was all random anyway, I forgot it……

Hop on over and visit Julie at From Inamtes to Playdates and see what others have learned.

Movie Review: 16 Wishes

2010-07-05T20:44:00.000-05:00

Every Monday I am going to *try* to write a movie review for a movie, new or old. Or at least something resembling a movie review.

My kids have ~~forced~~ let me watch the Disney Original movie, 16 Wishes, about 5 times in the last 2 weeks. It stars Debby Ryan (Suite Life On Deck) as the main character. This movie is written by Annie DeYoung and directed by Peter DeLuise. I have seen a few other films that Ms. DeYoung has written (Princess Protection Program and Return to Halloweentown). I enjoyed both of those as well. I am not familiar with anything else that Mr. DeLuise has worked on previously. The only other time I had seen Debby Ryan was in Suite Life On Deck. I do not like her in that series, but I liked her in 16 Wishes.

My kids started the countdown to this movie as soon as it was advertised. My first thought was “Oh, great. Not another cheesy Disney movie.” However, after watching it, it was a cute movie. The basic storyline was about a teen girl, Abby Jensen (played by Debby Ryan), who just woke up on her 16th birthday. For the last 16 years she had been making wishes that she hoped would come true when she turned 16. But, the day starts taking a bad turn when the Jensen’s home is overrun with 16 years worth of wasps. Abby is forced to ride the bus to school while still in her pajamas, while her rival, Krista (played by Karissa Tynes) who also shares a birthday with Abby, gets a new car for her birthday. While waiting at the bus stop with her best friend Jay (played by Jean-Luc Bilodeau ), a mail truck stops and the carrier Celeste (played by Anna Mae Routledge ), who ironically bears a resemblance to the exterminator that was just as the Jensen’s, and hands Abby a package. The package contains 16 numbered candles and matches. Abby begins to realize that the candles correspond with the 16 wishes she had made. Abby begins lighting the candles and makes her wishes. All seems good and the birthday seems to be the “best birthday in the history if 16th birthdays” (quote by Abby), until Abby makes her 9th wish – to be treated as an adult. From there everything begins going wrong. Abby must then figure out how to get everything back right. Also, at the end of the movie, we discover the reason behind Abby and Krista’s rivalry.

Now, since my blog is called The Italian Bella Diaries, I feel I must use some Italian themed object for my “Star” ratings. So, I give the movie, 16 Wishes, 4 out of 5 Italian flags.

Dear Nanny.....

2010-07-04T03:05:00.000-05:00

When I was younger, just a wee little tot, I was privileged enough to know one of the greatest women to ever grace this earth. Her name was Carolyn and she was a huge part of my younger years. In 1990, when I was 11, she passed away. It was my first true experience with death and it was one of my hardest hit moments.

I loved her so much that I called her Nanny when I was little. She was and always will be in my heart and I will never, EVER forget her. I named my second daughter after her – Carolyn (Carly). She may no longer be with me physically but she is ALWAYS with me emotionally.

I try to write her a letter every year. I missed last year because of some personal problems I was going through. But, believe me I was talking to her a lot…..
So, here is the letter for this year:

Dear Nanny,

It is so hard to believe that it has been 20 years since you passed away. It seems like just yesterday that I was just a little girl sitting in your house. I miss those days, more than ever. I regret not spending more time with you once I got school-aged. Its years I will never get back. But, I believe that you know that I always loved you during those years. And I missed you more than words can ever say. But, after 20 years of “talking” to you, I am sure that I do not have to reiterate that fact again.

I learned something as I got older but that means you’re not here for me to tell. I guess since I believe you are watching over me, then you already know. I want to thank you for loving me. As a child, I never understood the value of your love for me. You loved me just as a “mother” would, and quite honestly more than I think my own mother did. Maybe it’s wrong for me to say that about my own mother, but it’s true. In the end, it took all these years to realize that. I believe with all my heart that the reason Trey and I turned out so different from each other is because I had you and Mops to love me in my early years; he had no one like that. When I was with you and your family, I saw a true family and not the dysfunction I see on my own family. I saw the meaning of love, the true meaning and not the “boundaries and conditional” love I saw at home.

I know that you’re not here physically but I know that you have always looked out for me. It was you who reassured me during my 2002 pregnancy with Carolyn that all was ok. Some say I’m crazy, but I believe that dream I had was your way of telling me that she was ok. And it was.

I wish that you were here to see my 7 babies and to play with them. I wish you were here for them to see how wonderful they are instead of me telling them how wonderful you are. My life changed forever on July 4, 1990. I may have lost my way a few times, but I always pulled myself back with your “help”.

Every bit of emotional strength I have mustered up in the last 20 years has come, in part, from you. You have seen me through every good time, every sad time, and every depressing time. You have been there for me in ways that many will never understand. I just envision what I know you would say during that time and I work through it.

Sometimes, it’s hard to write these every year because after 20 years it gets redundant. But, the most important thing is that I love you, Nanny and I will never, ever forget you. I miss you more every day, but I know that you are still with me every day.

Love Always,
Crystal Jane

Happy Birthday to my Daddy!!

2010-07-02T15:59:00.000-05:00

Today is my daddy’s birthday, so HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DADDY! We are the only 2 in the immediate family that ever shared the birth month of July (my nephew now does too).

This was me and my daddy when I was a little girl.

This was my daddy in Jan. 2007 at my uncle’s (his brother) wedding.