July 21, 2009

Singing in the Rain

Rain again, second day in a row. A whole afternoon of it, delicious wet plops, more even than the dry, baked earth can soak up. There is plenty, a veritable feast of water, leaving big clear puddles in the yard. An oasis in the desert, and life answers the call. The grass is standing eagerly, a happy chorus of frogs chirp outside my window, birds and squirrels come out of their hiding places, our pet rabbit races around the yard, kicking up his heels... Rain, sweet rain! The sigh of relief is nearly audible, as thirsty plants, and parched animals, and desperate farmers, and dusty children, all lift their faces as the rain comes.

Something settles down in me. Something is right again, that was wrong. Some primitive need to know the rain is there, though we live a life of pipes and wells and water towers. Fill us up, lavishly fall in giant plops upon our head, baptize away the heat of the summer-- for there is no pool or tub or faucet that can rival God's own rain. It is tinged with the taste of Heaven.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:52 PM | Comments (3)

July 20, 2009

Little Dusty Around Here

Holy moly, it's been forever since I blogged! I've been neck-deep in summer activities, and just haven't had the time or energy to write. Summer is always light-blogging for me, what with all the comings and goings we do. It's been great so far-- the kids have had lots of fun activities, and we've done some good visiting with family and friends. It's hard to believe we're halfway through July already!

I am feeling much better these days, still have some lingering morning sickness, but it's manageable. Baby is growing just fine! I have a little bump that still constantly surprises me. I don't think it'll be real to me until this baby is actually HERE! We have a date for the gender ultrasound, Aug. 3. I'm really excited to know what this little one is! We don't usually find out, but this time, we need to know. If it's a girl, I have some physical preparation to do. I have NOTHING for a girl anymore. If it's a boy, then I have a bit of mental preparation ahead! Four boys! Oye vey! I'll be happy either way, but I'll be honest, I'd love to have a girl. I like the symmetry of girl, boy, boy, boy, girl. Nice and tidy. (Does this make me OCD?)

Anyway.

Besides that, not much else is on my mind these days. Looking ahead to the Fall, and schooling, and trying not to freak out about it. I told myself all last year that this coming year would be easier, because Chipmunk would be a year older, blah, blah, blah. Well, as we are counting down the days, I'm seeing that NOSIREE, this is not going to be easier. Chipmunk is one boisterous little dude. It's going to be hard to get anything done with his energy and noise level. I'm just now realizing the PROBLEM, and have not begun yet to think of a SOLUTION. I'm going to have to consult some other moms who have homeschooled large families. I know I can do this, I know it's possible, I just haven't figured out the how of it yet. It's not the teaching that scares me, it's the logistics of it all that get to me.

But, I'm trying not to let it overwhelm me. I'll get it sorted out, I suppose. One always does.

So, that's been it for me lately. I know it's fantastically boring-- which is why I haven't blogged about it. I'm just doing my thing, chugging along. I don't have much to contribute to the world at large, because my own little world requires quite a bit of me at the moment. When I'm pregnant, I just can't write. It's weird. It's like all the extra in me is being poured into this lil sprout. So, if you hear from me, it'll probably be sporadic, maybe a little blase, but, it is what it is, right? Seasons in life.

Okay, 'nuff for now. There's some chocolate in the freezer calling my name. Have a great week everybody!

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:16 AM | Comments (3)

July 9, 2009

Out and About

Hello from Summertime, USA! Once we all recovered from sicknesses, we went on with our plans for visiting. The weekend was spent in Monroe for the 4th- a fish fry, swimming, and sparklers. Then, Vicksburg, to see my new neice, eat lots of homegrown tomatos, and hang out with my folks. Tomorrow, we're in the final phase of our Get Around, with a quick trip to Mize, MS to visit my grandparents. We'll be back Sunday, in time for Girl Scout camp Monday, and VBS for the boys.

Whew!!!

Even though it sounds a little scattered, it's actually been fairly relaxing-- just visiting and taking it easy. It's good to see family! I'll admit, it will be nice to sleep in my own bed again though, when the time comes.

Nothing more to report- just wanted to pop in and say I haven't fallen off the face of the earth. Just soaking in some summertime! Hope you are all as well!

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:50 PM | Comments (2)

June 30, 2009

Being Green

but not in the good way.

I haven't written much lately, I know. I've just been feeling rather blah. This Friday, I'll be 14 weeks pregnant, and I'm really hoping that I'm going to start feeling more normal. Right now, I just have a very weak stomach. I can't eat much, or find the right things, or something. I don't know, it's not so much the nausea (although that does sneak up on me quite viciously at times), but it's more like you feel after you've gotten over a stomach virus. Sort of hungry, but you know nothing is going to settle right. Nothing really sounds good or tastes good. If I do manage to get something down, I almost immediately have heartburn.

So sad.

No, I'm not having a pity party, just reporting on my absence lately. A lot of the days, I'm just trying to make it through, and the other days, I'm too busy catching up! So, not much for blogging lately.

We've got plans to go out of town for July 4th-- but, the kids are all coming down with a fever virus. They feel pretty rotten, but no other symptoms, except the Duke complained that his tummy hurt. So, we definitely can't do anything until that's all cleared up. I can't bring any of them around the older folks in our family, or new baby Hazel! I'm hoping in a day or two we'll all be fit for company, and we can resume plans. Saturday, we're supposed to have a fish fry in Monroe, and I think I might cry if that falls through. But I cry about everything these days. I cried at Horton Hears a Who just today, when they stuffed poor Horton in the cage at the end. I couldn't stop myself! I cry, and then have to laugh at myself while I'm doing it.

I'm such a mess. This pregnancy has got me good. I don't know if it's because I'm 33, but I suspect that might have something to do with it. It's just not as easy on your body as you get older. You'd think, having done this a few times before would make it a breeze the FIFTH time around. But, I'm hanging on by a thread many a day. This is not me complaining!! Honestly, I'm just saying. It's all in perspective, I know it's temporary, it's worth it, all that. I wouldn't change it for anything. I'll just be glad to feel normal- to enjoy eating again.

Well, I'm out for the night. I've got to make rounds, check foreheads, kiss warm cheeks.

Goodnight, all. Hope you have a great week!

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:09 PM | Comments (6)

June 21, 2009

Summer Saturdays

When we lived in Birmingham, we hiked a lot. It was our family past time, and we loved it! It was a great way to "commune with nature." Here in Louisiana, though... well, you don't hike voluntarily. It's hot, humid, the undergrowth is FULL of briars and snakes, and not to mention the mosquitos, which are often mistaken for BIRDS around here. You don't traipse around the Louisiana wilds unless Yankee troops are on your tail. Then, you 'git.

Sorry-- past life or something there.

Anyway, so, we've been missing our nature walks. However, we're recently discovered a new family activity, fishing! It's not as cardio-vascular as hiking, but you probably sweat off a pound or two in an afternoon. (A few more Saturdays, and I'll be back in my skinny jeans, pregnant or not!!) The kids are having a ball, and seem to have a lot of luck in the little pond near our house. King Pen has been busy baiting hooks and untangling lines for several Saturdays in a row now, and I do think he's a fishing convert as well.

The three oldest kids pile up in his old red Ford truck for the one minute drive to the pond, windows down, poles in the back. I follow with Chipmunk in the van so we can leave early if need be-- and here is what we do:

HeroBoy, waits patiently for his cork to bob:

Czarina with a tiny brim and a big smile:

The Duke and Chipmunk watch for turtles, or tadpoles, and amazingly, do not fall in (this time):

King Pen puts on another worm:

Chipmunk can't figure out why the fish aren't biting-- he IS wearing his fishing hat, after all:

And HeroBoy, still waits, loving every minute of it:

And me... well, I take the pictures. Although, I know what to do with a worm if King Pen's not around. I did grow up in the South, after all. But MY dad's truck was green.

Posted by WonderGirl at 8:47 PM | Comments (6)

June 17, 2009

Oh Thank Goodness

The AC is repaired!! The guy made it by after hours, which I was sooooo grateful for. Honestly, I almost cried, I was so happy! Ah, hormones.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:54 PM | Comments (1)

Whining

Oh.
my.
stars.

It's so hot. Our AC has fritzed out, on possibly the hottest day of the summer so far. I can't think!! I can't move! I can't lift my pinky finger to do a single thing that needs doing.

Posted by WonderGirl at 2:45 PM | Comments (0)

June 15, 2009

Ow

One of the less pleasant tasks of the day was to have my blood drawn at the doctor's office. I don't like it, but I usually handle it as well as anybody else. They find my veins right off, and just get straight to business. However, my arm has gotten increasingly sore throughout the day-- to the point where I can't bend or straighten it all the way, nor can I lift anything with my hand! What gives? I've never had that kind of reaction before, but I am in serious pain here! Did she hit a nerve? There is no evident bruising or swelling-- but this is just not normal. Anybody have a similar experience?

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:29 PM | Comments (3)

Seeing is Believing

So, finally, I saw a doctor today. Sitting in the waiting room as big bellies paraded past me, I felt incredibly out of place. I didn't realize how uncertain of this pregnancy I was until that moment. I began to think, I've just been fooling myself-- inventing symptoms-- 'cause there's no way I fit here.

At the moment of the ultrasound, I prepared myself to see an empty space. A black void, where a baby should be, but wasn't. Because, I've been there before-- expecting to see something, then not, and that is a cruel blow. Once that's happened, you're skittish. Spooked. So, I'm laying there with however much dignity one can gather up in a backless, paper gown-- and I hold my breath. Until, yes, there it is! A little human being. I am not crazy, I didn't convince myself of anything-- I really am, actually, truly, pregnant with my fifth child.

Whoa.

That's big potatoes, people. There's no denying it anymore-- life is about to change. Am I ready? Who is? I'm just trusting that God will provide us with everything we need to grow this way. Patience, fortitude, time, space, money... I'll admit, it's a little scary to me at this point. I don't want to get buried in the details of it, I know it'll all work out, so I don't think too hard on it. But there are moments, there are fears-- will I be enough? Can I stretch far enough to handle it all? I know I can't. But I do know that when I've reached as far as I can go, God goes the rest of the way. That's incredibly reassuring.

Well, that's it for now. I've got Monday to tend to. I'll be back tomorrow, because I've got plenty to write about-- I've just been holding off till this appointment was settled. Now, my brain is cleared up a bit, and I'm not in limbo anymore-- so let the writing begin!

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:17 AM | Comments (8)

June 8, 2009

Back on Campus

If you think of it, please say a prayer today (and tomorrow morning) for King Pen. He's headed to LSU to take two parts of his licensing test. The section tomorrow is the most difficult- grading, and he's been studying for it for months. Many people don't pass their first time around, but he's determined (and a little stressed out.) The other part, which he takes this afternoon, is the plants section. He feels pretty good about that one, fortunately.

So, all prayers are appreciated! Specifically, you can pray for clarity, recollection, and timeliness for him. Each part is about five hours long, and that can be a little intense.

Once he's passed all five parts, he will be able to go into business for himself as a Landscape Architect. This has always been our ultimate goal, and to be at this stage of it is very exciting. We've still got a long way to go, but this is a major step in that direction.

Thanks! Hope you all have a happy week!

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:46 AM | Comments (4)

May 28, 2009

Back in the Saddle Again

Whoops! I keep taking week long sabbaticals from writing, but it's entirely unintentional. We've been at my inlaws house for a few days, and they have dial-up, bless their hearts. So, instead of checking emails and blogging, I've spent my mornings sprawled out on the porch swing with a pillow, laying on my back, gazing up at the leaves shuddering on the branches. It's always breezy on the Brimberry, because they are surrounded by long cottonfields that don't block the wind. The kids played around, riding bikes or digging in the sandbox, and I just lay there, listening to the locusts and the birds and the rustling foliage. I could feel everything resetting within me. It's a delicious feeling.

We got back yesterday, because the Duke had an eye appointment. He didn't pass his eye exam at the pediatrician, so we figured he needed glasses. Yup. But only for reading, and working with things up close. He'll probably outgrow them before too long, but in the meantime, he's going to be TOO CUTE. I'll post a picture when they come in, so you can see my little scholar.

Coming up Saturday is HeroBoy's second to last soccer game. It's been a great season, lots of fun for us! My sister is coming in Friday to spend the night and see him play the next day.

So, today, that means putting the house back together! Yikes. It's a bit of a mess. Next week, the older three have vacation bible school, so I'm hoping to get some major organizing and cleaning done. I am so OVER the chaos, right now. I am in desperate need of a clean, orderly space!

Well, that brings you up on what we've been doing lately. Sorry I've been so out of pocket recently. I'm hoping things will settle back down into a routine (for a while anyway!) and I can pick up the pen again.

Have a good Thursday, everybody!!

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:08 AM | Comments (2)

May 13, 2009

Can't. Wake. Up.

Argh! This was one of those mornings when I had to fight my way to consciousness. Wading through that thick, syrupy sleepiness was a battle. As matter of fact, I got up and went on to make breakfast for the kids and get to my day, only to discover that I was STILL ASLEEP!! My brain out and out tricked me!! I couldn't believe my sneaky little body figured out a way to get a few more minutes of sleep, by constructing a dream that made me think I was awake. I don't know at what point I realized it, but I was appalled at the lengths my sly little self would go.

But, I'm well and truly awake now. (I think.)

So, an update on yesterday's post, my great uncle. He passed away quietly with his loved ones around him. My mom said that he opened his eyes at the end, and he was gazing off at something they couldn't see. His eyes got very wide, and then they closed, and he was gone. As my mother was telling me this, I was imagining that he must have been seeing his mother, my great grandmother Turnipseed (yes, that was her real name!!), who went to be with the Lord when I was four or five. Uncle Ben was always very child-like because of his Downs, and a reunion with his mother would be heaven indeed for him. As I was thinking all this, my mother went on to say all the same things. I rejoice for Uncle Ben today. Though his presence will be missed, we cannot help but marvel at the new body and the new mind he has at this moment-- what a homecoming!! What a glorious image of shedding this earthly form for the freedom of a perfect body in union with Christ.

So, we'll be traveling again this weekend for the funeral.

As for the rest of the week, there's school to do, some major cleaning projects, and generally trying to put things back to normal. It's been sort of chaotic lately. I need to get caught up on our regular stuff, so that I can get to the extra stuff. It's all piling up around me!!

Not much of a post today, I realize. Hopefully, this is one of those "extras" I can get to once I'm on task again with everything else.

Have a good day, everybody. Thanks for your prayers yesterday.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:34 AM | Comments (2)

May 11, 2009

Returning

Shhhh... the kids don't know I'm up yet. Be vewy quite.

So, Monday. I'm actually pretty glad to see it. Routine, order, all the things that make happy little Virgos. The last few weeks have been very chaotic, and I'm ready to get back to normal! We're not finished with school- actually, we'll be going through the summer on some subjects. I am afraid if I stop with HeroBoy, he'll lose his reading. And Czarina's math just moves too fast, so we've had to slow our pace down, spread it out some. Plus, it helps to have something to do in the day.

Aw shucks, they found me. Breakfast orders have been placed, so I suppose I should skedaddle. Have a good day, everybody! I'll try to finish up a decent post in a spare moment of the day.

Posted by WonderGirl at 8:28 AM | Comments (0)

May 8, 2009

Skipping the Coffee, Going Straight for the Catch-Up

Morning, everyone!

It's Friday- whoohoo! The end of a very strange week for us. Last Sunday, we had a nasty storm come in and it snapped the top of a tree off in our backyard. It fell over the powerline (and the trampoline!!) We had been planning to leave that afternoon for Monroe, so packing in the dark yielded some interesting outfits!

Anyway, we stayed in Monroe one night, and then in Vicksburg till Thursday, then back to Monroe for a few hours to deliver a Mother's Day gift. We made it back in time for HeroBoy's soccer practice yesterday, which he got sick halfway through and we left early. But, on our way, King Pen called to say his truck had broken down, so we had to fetch him.

!!!!

And to top off this weird, chaotic week, Czarina and I are going on a brownie field trip Saturday morning at 3:30 A.M! Yikes! We're going to Dallas to see the King Tut exhibit and the Dallas zoo. We'll be back around midnight Saturday.

So, with HeroBoy-- I don't know what his deal was. He had a lowgrade fever and stomach pain. But nothing else! I'm wondering if this is related to the rash Chipmunk showed up with a few days ago. We seem to come down with roseola or fifth disease or something like that every six months or so. Anyway, add that to all the confusion of the week! (And, by the way, sorry to anybody we may have exposed along the way! I sincerely hope we didn't get anybody sick.)

It was a good week, we did some nice visiting. I saw Ashley and Adler, Laura and Gus, my Aunt Dianna, Brittany in from Atlanta, my parents, King Pen's parents, and visited with my grandmother who is in the hospital.

It was a full week, but I'm glad to be home again. It's not easy to be on the road with four kids! Everybody does great, and I'm always happy to make these trips to see family, but it does take a lot out of me. It's nice to drive up to our house, and know that I'm going to be sleeping in my own bed that night. Lovely.

Well, that's a rundown of our week. Sorry for being a lame blogger lately. Sometimes, I can't believe I let so much time pass between posts, but it's unavoidable. Life right now just doesn't let me look away, you know? It requires all of my attention these days, and I just have to go with that and blog when I can.

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend! I'll take lots of pictures during our Brownie trip, and try to post Monday.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:11 AM | Comments (0)

April 18, 2009

Day's End

A full Saturday draws to a close. HeroBoy's first soccer game was rained out, but we still did the team pictures today. After that, a trip to Wal-Mart, early enough in the day to avoid the Saturday crowd, and back home again to clean and cook. Neighbors joined us for a dinner of grilled tilapia, wild rice, and sugar snap peas. Coffee and lemon bars to top off the evening. Kids played, adults talked, everybody laughed and enjoyed themselves.

Now, red beans and rice simmers in the crockpot for tomorrow, my house is spectacularly clean, and I am plum tuckered out.

It was a very, very good day. A day at home, a day of labor, a day things got done that needed doing. But also... a night to enjoy the fruits of my effort, a night with friends and food and lovely candles burning on the mantel.

And the best part, oh the best part, is my soft bed that waits at the end of it all. Eight hundred thread count, 100% Egyptian cotton sheets, the biggest personal indulgence of my life, just waiting for little old me.

Have a blessed Sunday, friends. Hope you all have a lovely weekend.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:45 PM | Comments (1)

April 3, 2009

My Ladies

While in Atlanta visiting my sister Britt, she planned a surprise for us. A photo session with her friend, Heidi, who works with Our Labor Of Love. She's a pretty cool girl, and is out to get shots that are interesting and quirky. You can definitely tell that by the sample of work on her blog. She did a fantastic job of putting us at ease, and we spent the whole time laughing and carrying on. We went to some neat sites around town, and she got a lot of beautiful, artistic, whimsical shots. Here's a short slide show, with some highlights of the shoot. I'll try to put up some more as they become available to me.

If you're in the ATL area and need a photographer, seriously consider this gal. She's great! She really captured the relationship between us, and I'll treasure these photos forever. Love my ladies.

Posted by WonderGirl at 3:35 PM | Comments (4)

March 30, 2009

Let's Have Our Monday Meeting

Good day, everybody! Seriously, good day. It is, isn't it? Even for a Monday, you can't help but fall in love with weather like this. It's bright and green, breezy, sunshiney. Perfect.

I've put my favorite Spring skirt on, flipflops, and a tanktop. It's my official Welcome to Spring uniform. I sometimes put it on too early, but this time, I'm optimistic. Surely this weather will stick? I even packed the heaviest jackets up today, and if I have to get them out again, I'll be surprised. And a little mad. Still, though, even if I do, I'm going to enjoy this balmy, lively weather while I can. The kids are down at the creek for a little before school fun, and I'm taking a moment to catch my breath.

It seems like forever since I've blogged. It's been a crazy busy month, running all over the place. Thankfully, we had a lowkey weekend, since we were still getting over the last dredges of illness. It was restful, and everyone is well now. (thank goodness!!)

Friday night, Czarina had her Girl Scout sleepover, and it went off without a hitch.

It's the first time she's spent a night with anybody besides family. I wasn't sure how she would do, but I shouldn't have wasted time worrying. She was awesome. She had her best bud, Tori, with her, and she couldn't get rid of me fast enough!

As hard as it is sometimes to see her growing, I am also so glad she's having these moments in her life. They are joyful to me, in a whole new way.

Anyway, besides that, the weekend was uneventful. King Pen was under the weather, so we laid low. He was better by Sunday, so we did steaks on the grill and had a lazy afternoon. Good thing, 'cause it's going to be a busy week.

We have tons of school to make up from Spring break and our sick days. It's a little overwhelming, but we'll get there.

HeroBoy has his first soccer practice Thursday. How excited am I? I can't wait. You all know I'm not a big sports person, but I come from a family that loves them. So, I'm used to sitting in stands, cheering-- and I cannot WAIT to see HeroBoy out there, doing his thing. I know how much he's going to love it, and it feels great to nurture that in him. We're doing Upwards soccer, which is a Christian program than encourages players to have strong values and positive team attitudes. I think they even do some scripture memorization. The season isn't too long, and they don't practice or play on Sundays, so it will be a nice introduction into the sports world for us. They're called The Little Flashes, and I'm sure that's all he'll be out there, just a flash of color.

What else? Oh, on Saturday, we are attending a crawfish boil with King Pen's friends from LSU. Now, that's something to be excited about! Yum, and fun! It's not far from Baton Rouge, so I'm thinking, maybe we'll stay overnight and visit our old church friends there on Sunday. (This is news to King Pen-- sorry dear, it just came to me this morning! Whatcha think?) I haven't seen Debby or Ann or any of those guys in three years. Well past time to visit!!

Okie dokie, artichokie. That brings you up to date. I'm way behind on the day, so I better get to it. Have a lovely Monday, folks, and I'll catch up with you later. I still plan to write about my Atlanta trip, just want to sit and do it justice when I have enough time. Stay with me, it's good.

PS: I just noticed, if you scroll up and down between that last picture of Czarina and the one below of me with my new haircut, we really look quite a bit alike. She's got my smile! :)

Posted by WonderGirl at 1:03 PM | Comments (4)

March 27, 2009

Difference Between Mostly Dead and All Dead

It turns out, I was only mostly dead. I have made a full, miraculous recovery! (Now we can go save the Princess and kill the six fingered man who murdered our father.)

I'm telling you, though, that was rough. Being mostly dead bites. But, thank goodness, I woke up this morning on the right side of the living. I'm SO incredibly happy to be well again. I don't think I've ever been so grateful to be over a virus.

King Pen did an excellent job of taking care of things around here while I was down (he took off a day, bless him). Honestly, he's got it all together as my significant other. Couldn't ask for any better!! I've got me a Real Man, for sure.

More blogging later, but now I've got to put life to rights around here. The house is in order, but I haven't even unpacked everything from our trip yet!

Oh, before I go: Czarina has her very first SLEEPOVER tonight. It's a brownie activity, and her best friend, Tori will be there, so I'm not too worried about her getting homesick. It's just ME I'm worried about. I can't believe my girl is big enough for a sleepover!

Okay, I'm out. Have a happy, HEALTHY weekend everybody!!!

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:11 AM | Comments (1)

March 25, 2009

How Goes the War?

Alas, the Duke has fallen. On a positive note, he does seem to be able to aim for the bucket more than I expected. Czarina and HeroBoy are better. I fully expect Chipmunk to join the ranks soon, though.

I really hope it doesn't work it's way UP. Wah.

PS. I typed this is .06 seconds flat. Now I'll be running back to man the bucket.

Posted by WonderGirl at 7:23 AM | Comments (0)

March 21, 2009

Salut

Hello from a coffeeshop in Atlanta! I am sipping a nice, hot cuppa, and feeling like quite the hipster in my new Betty Page-ish haircut, and wifi know how. (If you saw me, you would laugh, because I am country mouse come to the city, indeed. Obvious as can be.)

Anyway, we're off to Ikea, where we'll shop and eat meatballs and wonder if there's anyway we could squeeze this or that into my mom's Commander.

It's all quite wonderful.

Well, the girls are a-calling. Off we go! Have a great weekend, friends. Wish you were here!

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:13 AM | Comments (6)

March 17, 2009

Pinch Me

'Cause I must be dreaming. Is that the sun shining this St. Patrick's Day? It's been rainy and dismal for days and days, and sunshine is a welcome change. Today, we'll go to the park, get some new tires on my mom's car (for our Atlanta drive coming up), and have a movie afternoon at Ashley's house, in her totally awesome media room. It's gonna be great. And, it means we're also one day closer to Friday, one day closer to Ikea, to fabulous haircuts, to little sisters in big cities. Can't wait.

I am scooting out now, to go put something green on. I have fended off pinches with my green eyes, but I am not sure that will fly much longer.

Happy St. Patrick's day, everybody!

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:33 AM | Comments (1)

March 12, 2009

Jokes and a Secret

I want you to have a good day today. So, let's start it off with a couple Chuck Norris jokes.

When the Boogie Man goes to sleep every night, he checks under his bed for Chuck Norris.

If you spell "Chuck Norris" in Scrabble, you win. Forever.

Chuck Norris's tears cure cancer. Too bad he has never cried.

Chuck Norris isn't funny. Stop laughing.

There we go, that was a good start! And so next, my secret. This one is for the ladies. I am going to share a beauty tip that has transformed my skin, and I am NOT exaggerating. It's actually my aunt's secret, and I wrangled it out of her. She has perfect skin, amazing, soft, dewy, translucent skin. It's a very compelling sales pitch for the product she uses. It's called Enfuselle, by Shaklee. It's kind of expensive, but I wanted to try it for myself, so I splurged. I'm using the A.M. Repair, and let me tell you, the results are incredible!! I have NEVER used anything before that has made such a huge difference. It wasn't even like I had bad skin, I'm not prone to blemishes or too obvious wrinkles. But, once I started using it, I realized how KICKING my skin could be. It's, dare I say it, actually pretty beautiful these days? My skin looks vibrant, healthy, and it's nearly effortless on my part. (Feel free to comment upon it next time you see me, so I'll know it's money well spent. Ha.)

Oh, you insist on evidence, huh? Okay.

See? I'm smiley and happy, and I have devious eyebrows. Can't get more proof than that! (Honestly, excuse the slightly crazy expression. I'm normally much more serene. And in no way sarcastic.)

Anyway, that's my secret. If you want to try the Enfuselle, please contact my aunt. She sells it, but that is NOT what this is about, I promise. I'm not trying to drum her up some business. This is just girl to girl, sharing something that really works. I am seldom so impressed with a product that I actually have to write about it, but this definitely needs passing along. You won't regret it.

Mkay, friends. We have story time at the library today, and a used homeschool book sale, and Girl Scout meeting, AND a mom's night out tonight. So, I gotta move my tush. Hope you all have a good day, and I'll check in with ya later.

Oh... before I go. If you use a product of any kind that you really believe in, truly endorse with all your heart, post it!!! I'd love to hear what you're using that really works.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:18 AM | Comments (10)

March 6, 2009

Where Have All the Curls Gone?

The boys all got haircuts yesterday. HeroBoy got the pre-summer buzz-- not quite a buzz, but real tight! The Duke got his curls curtailed. His is a little longer, but nice and sharp looking. And Chipmunk, well, that poor baby got shorn like a sheep. The lady just kept cutting and cutting, and before I knew it, it was all gone.

-Sniff-

Now, you know, we are not a long-hair-on-boys kind of family. Sometimes we let the curls grow out a little, but we like them to look like little men. But I have to admit, I wasn't ready for the big boy haircut on little Chipmunk. I suppose having it coincide with his second birthday was just a bit overwhelming for me. He looks cute, he looks like a little soldier. But I'm used to his magic curls, and I miss them. I'm not ready, I'm not ready, I'm not ready....

It's become a mantra lately, with all of them.

You really can't think about it. You have to cloak yourself in denial or distract yourself with busyness, because if you stop for a minute and think about what's happening--- it hurts! Ouch! Double ouch! Owie, owie! Blow on it or something!!!

I suppose this REALLY obvious and unavoidable signal that my youngest is getting BIG, is an inescapable reminder of what I'm not ready to admit. My babies are growing, right before my eyes. My babies are almost not babies anymore.

Wahhhhhh!!

Okay, I'm stopping. Back to denial. This post never happened. I'm not crying, why would I be crying? (Defense mechanisms fully in place.)

I'll take a picture of them with their new 'dos later, so we can "not" weep together.

PS. We're celebrating Chipmunk's birthday this weekend, and I'll post about that, too.

Posted by WonderGirl at 8:01 AM | Comments (4)

March 4, 2009

Upcoming

In a few weeks, I am headed to Atlanta with my sister Ashley and my mom, to visit my youngest sister, Brittany, and of course, my Aunt Vickie. We're leaving on a Friday, and we'll stay until Monday. My mother-in-law, God bless her, is watching the kids on the days that King Pen is working. (And may I take a moment here, to say THANK YOU to my wonderful husband, and his amazing mother for giving me these days all to myself. I really, really, appreciate it. Now, on with the post!)

I
am
totally
freaking
excited.

Seriously, I get a little high just thinking about it. For one, we're going to Ikea. (And you all know how I feel about that store.) Plus, we're going out, in our grown-up clothes (and kickin' shoes), with no diaper bags, on a nap-free schedule! (Unless Ashley needs a little preggo nap. She might get grumpy without one.) We're going to have a constant stream of Girl Talk. Uninterrupted. Unapologetic. UnEDITED. Nice.

I'm getting my hair cut by the premiere hair stylist of Atlanta.
There's a surprise planned somewhere in the weekend for us.
We're sight-seeing, window-shopping, girl-talking, city-living, for three glorious days.

As thrilled as I am to have a vacation, a break from the kids, a trip to the city, and a chance to shop at my favorite places--- it's not really about that. It's that I get to spend time with my two sisters and my mother- my three best friends. We won't be connected by cellphones or emails or facebook for three whole days-- we'll be together, at this intersection of four busy lives, for a little while. We spend so much of our time now just telling each other what we've been doing. It will be nice, just for a little while, to share in the doing. Spending time with them is like carbonation-- they are fizzy and refreshing, and make you go "aaahhhhhh." It's having a coke, a good, icy kind of coke with a real bite to it, after you haven't had one for a really, really long time. That's what being with them feels like to me.

Plus.
Ikea.

Rockin' trip.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:07 PM | Comments (5)

March 2, 2009

See Them, Love Them

Since Denise asked, here are the two pairs of shoes currently residing in my heart. Tell me you don't love them. I dare ya.

They are so marvelous, I have to wear one of each when I go out.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:49 AM | Comments (6)

February 28, 2009

I-shop

People, I have fallen in love with shoes. Hard, Baby, like a punch to the heart.

I don't know what happened, I suppose some of the blame belongs to What Not to Wear, which has revived my interest in fashion. I just realized, I've been walking around like a candidate for that show (poor, unknowing fashion victims are given a surprise makeover. It's a totally gratifying hour of tv watching, trust me!) So, this show helped me realize, my clothes were boring me to death. Seriously, they were launching an organized attack on my inner fashionista.

There was no pleasure in dressing, just putting on my "mom uniform" of jeans that were a little too snug for comfort (ah, denial!!) and the same long sleeve cotton shirt from Old Navy in a million different boring colors. Not a print or collar for miles. And, the tennis shoes, which I was practically sleeping in. Snore. It's understandable that it had come to this, staying at home with the kids requires a particular, basic kind of outfit. But that had turned into ALL I had, ALL I wore, ALL the time.

And suddenly, fashion has slapped me upside the head. Wake up! Check out the awesomeness! I don't know how it found me, or what I did to provoke the wake up call, but I'm loving it. This is HUGE, folks. I've never been a shoppy kind of girl. But, things have a-changed. I could shop till the cows come home. Or actually, I could go out looking for those cows, and end up with a nice leather bag at the end of the day. That's how bad this is.

But back to the shoes.... merciful stars! Who knew there were so many fabulous, adorable kinds of shoes out there? Where have I been for the last decade? How could I possibly love a pair of shoes so much, that I just want to spend time with them, get to know them, give them names, and little pats on the toes?

Something's wrong with me.

Anyway.

That's it, all I got tonight. It's been a long hard day (of shopping) and my darling shoes and I have to get up early tomorrow for church. I'd end with a "ta-ta", but I think that would be overkill. I'm not that far gone... yet.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:55 PM | Comments (5)

February 18, 2009

My TV is Overly Opinionated

So, we have digital cable. (I know, we're high rollers. Don't be jealous.)

I have a love/hate relationship with the info button. You press it, and a quick synopsis of the show will pop up. Well, I don't know who's in charge of writing these things, but they are actually a little heavy on the editorial. If they don't like it, they call it straight out. They'll define a show as a "soggy romance", a "mediocre sitcom", a "boring documentary", or a "feeble attempt by director So and So". No kidding. I'm like, I'm not paying you for your opinion here, folks. Just give me the facts. And yet, I can't seem to stop pressing the thing to see what They (those mysterious powers that be) think of it! Fiends!

Posted by WonderGirl at 1:19 PM | Comments (0)

February 15, 2009

I Love You, Now Please Pass The Bucket.

So, guess what Cupid brought to our house for Valentine's Day?

Germs.

Nice chap, that Cupid. Czarina came down with a stomach bug, but it seems to be a 24 hour thing. She's improving, fortunately. She gets so pitiful when she's sick. :( Now, we wait to see who drops next! My money is on HeroBoy, because he's currently laying on the floor doing nothing. That is NOT a good sign. He doesn't ever do NOTHING.

Anyway, don't count on seeing me 'round the internets for a day or two or twenty. I'll be manning the spit-up bucket, and believe me, that's a job that requires diligence. Do NOT fall down on that job.

Hope you all had a great (read better) weekend than moi. (Except for the first part of Saturday, which totally rocked because King Pen sent me out for some ME time!! I went shopping, and it was fantastic. I am no longer ashamed to be seen in public.)

Okay, I'm out! If you don't hear from me in a week, then somebody please come to my house. Consider it an SOS.

Posted by WonderGirl at 4:44 PM | Comments (0)

February 13, 2009

Hitting the Pause, for a minute, anyway.

Good morning, world! How are you all today? (I'll wait while all 6.8 billion of you reply.)

Things are off to a good start over here. It's raining, and I'm still in my pajamas. The boys are watching a Bionicle cartoon, Czarina is reading. There are tons of things to do, but they'll all get done eventually. It's Friday, and I'm in love with the day.

We've been incredibly busy this week. It's been productive, exhausting, a little bit stressful. I have gone to sleep early a lot this week, just plum tuckered out. We've been hitting it hard-- trying to do all the extras that need doing-- and I am here to say, in case you didn't know, life with four kids is a lot of work! Squeezing in quality time with all four of them, reading books, snuggling, extra activities-- not to mention schooling and just FEEDING and CLOTHING them... it's nonstop. It gets done, but there is just nothing left over of me at the end of the day. I am not sure how to change that, but I do realize, I need some balance in my life. I'm working on it, a little bit at a time. One of the things I'm doing, (which is probably contributing to my tiredness at the end of the day!) is that I'm getting up before King Pen leaves for work, and going walking/running. The kids are still sleeping, it's dark outside, and I kind of hate it, but I'm there. I actually did enjoy it yesterday, for the first time. So, maybe I'm coming around the corner with it! Though I'm struggling to enjoy it, I am glad to be doing it. I know it's important, so I'll keep up with it, even though I miss those extra hours of sleep.

Another thing I'm doing, trying to nurture some budding friendships here in Pineville. It's not easy, you know, when you have so little free time. I want to be selfish with it- I want to hide out in the quiet spots of the day! But, no man is an island, right? So, I'm reaching out a little more. It's a good thing. I'm always happy afterwards that I've picked up the phone, or had that extra conversation with the neighbor.

Our church situation is possibly near resolution. It's been over a year, and we have bounced all over the place trying to find a church home. We'll go to a place for several months, only to discover that there is some serious issue that prevents us from settling down there. I would question if it was US, and not the CHURCH, but in my heart I know, we are desperate for a church, but we've just had a string of bad luck. I think, though, that we're about to exhaust all our options, and we'll have to make a decision once and for all. I welcome it really- I'm tired of being a visitor. We've done that for a year, and it's taking a toll on me. On our family. I can say though, that it's given me a sincere appreciation for what it means to be a member of a church. I can't wait for that! It's not something I will take for granted again.

Okay, I didn't mean this to turn into a marathon update, but I meandered into it. I suppose I must rally to the morning, and get busy. Unpause, get back in the game. I hope you all have a wonderful Valentine weekend! What a good day to count the blessings in our life-- any man with love is rich indeed. XXXs and OOOs, my dearies.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:17 AM | Comments (1)

February 4, 2009

Unwelcome Advice

HeroBoy is incredibly susceptible to marketing campaigns. Any commercial that stays on long enough is sure to convince him that WE MUST HAVE THAT THING. He is constantly telling me that I need to try out those new space bags, or that vacuum cleaner, that electric omelet cooker thing, or a Shamwow. He's told my grandmother that she should look into getting a Life Alert. (which was actually pretty decent advice.)

However, it ceased to be cute with his latest recommendation. The Body Fat Burning Pill.

Nice, HeroBoy. Verra smooth.

Posted by WonderGirl at 4:00 PM | Comments (0)

Feel the Burn

Oh man. I am NOT an aerobics girl at 6:15 a.m. Nope. Nuh-uh.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:07 AM | Comments (0)

January 8, 2009

Sicko

Laid up on the couch, watching movies and drinking Sunny Delight. That's me. I have been fighting off a bug all week, and it finally got the best of me last night. I'll be back when I'm not germy and grumpy.

Posted by WonderGirl at 4:08 PM | Comments (0)

January 6, 2009

God's Kind of Love

Okay, so I'm gonna get to all that housework, I am.

But last night, as I lay in bed trying to fall asleep, I "reread" a book in my mind that I read over the holidays, and I just had to tell you about it while I drink my coffee. I was home sick with the Duke on the Sunday after Christmas at my in-laws house, and I picked up this book of my mother-in-law's. It's called Redeeming Love, by Francine Rivers.

This novel is a stunning retelling of the Bible story of Hosea and Gomer. You know that one? God tells Hosea, a prophet, to marry Gomer, a "not-so-former" prostitute. Their story is wrenching, as Gomer betrays Hosea over and over, but he doesn't give up on her. It is the picture of our relationship with God, how faithless and fickle we, His bride, can be. And yet, His love is unchanging, forgiving, reaching us even when we've turned away from Him. God keeps His promises, His vows, even as we are breaking ours. (I won't tell you how that story ends, because I don't want to spoil the retelling!)

So, with that Bible story as the basis for this book, we meet Michael Hosea, a farmer in California during the Gold Rush.

"Michael Hosea was a quiet man, but there wasn't anything soft about him. There was something in his look that made men treat him with respect. It wasn't just his height or the strength of his body, which were both impressive enough. It was the clear steadiness of his gaze. He knew what he was about even if the rest of the world didn't."

And Sarah, his Gomer, his tragic, fallen bride. Complicated, confused, she just can't be summed up in a single quote. This whole book is an unfolding of her tale, and I will leave it to you. I'll give you her description of the town they live in, though, as a sample of Ms. River's stellar literary skill.

"Pair-a-Dice lay in the Mother Lode of California. It was the worst place she could have imagined, a shanty town of golden dreams built out of rotting sails from abandoned ships; a camp inhabited by outcasts and aristocrats, the displaced and dispossessed, the once-pampered and now-profane canvas-roofed bars and gambling houses lined mean streets ruled by unmasked depravity and greed, loneliness and grand illusions. Pair-a-Dice was wild jubilation. It wed black despair with fear and the foul taste of failure."

It has all the elements of a pioneer tale, you know- that "something special" that made us all love "Sarah Plain and Tall"? But, it also has the depth and suspense of a gritty reality, as we learn how Sarah came to be in such a place of desperation, of darkness. The dramatic scenes are tastefully written, but still powerful and intense. And woven throughout the whole book is a message of hope, of forgiveness, of redemption--- that universal theme in our lives. When I finished this novel, I couldn't help but marvel at how much God loves me. And yet, I didn't feel like Francine Rivers was forcing it on me. She didn't have to-- because Truth is just there. She let the story tell itself.

A book that does all that, definitely deserves passing along. A book that makes you think, that makes you feel, that makes you meditate on God's goodness, is a book worth reading.

So, that's my two cents for the morning. Now, done with my coffee, the day awaits.

Posted by WonderGirl at 8:24 AM | Comments (3)

January 5, 2009

Don't Look At My Brain

So, here's the perfect opportunity to blog, and I am EMPTY. I have been cleaning and organizing like a fiend, and my brain is goo. Good thing you can't see it, 'cause I'm sure it wouldn't be pretty.

Unfortunately, I really only got about halfway through the whole House Overhaul, so tomorrow will probably be a repeat of today! Including, I'm sure, the goo brain. It doesn't make for good writing.

Wednesday, though, looks like prime blogging time! So, hang in, dear friends, I'm a-coming.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:17 PM | Comments (2)

January 4, 2009

Homecoming

Yesterday.

That's when we got home from our Christmas traveling, I kid you not. There are hundreds of thousands of boxes and bags and suitcases to unpack (oh, how I wish this was an exaggeration!), so that will be my Monday. I'll take a break and blog, though, so catch me tomorrow, mkay?

Hope you all had as wonderful a holiday as we did!!

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:15 PM | Comments (0)

December 22, 2008

Full Bellies, Full Hearts

I like everything to be an occasion, marked by some significant element. This is our first Christmas Eve at home, believe it or not- and I'm thrilled! It changes the holiday completely for us. Anyway, since we'll be here, we will be making our own traditions as a family. Deciding what those will be is exciting, even down to the meal planning.

This is the perfect time of the year to make memories. People are baking cookies and building gingerbread houses, it's a memory-making extravaganza. And I'm no different. I see these moments as an opportunity to build a gift for my children. I want the things they taste and smell and hear all throughout their life to bring back a good memory of something in our home. I want them to say, "Oh, remember having hot cocoa as we decorated our Christmas tree?"? Or, "Remember singing the 12 days of Christmas with all our cousins?" Whatever the memories will be, we're building them now, and it's important to make an effort to create good ones for them. When they are grown, I want it to be nearly impossible for them to be sad at this time of the year, because they have a million wonderful feelings associated with it. I want them to celebrate because they can't help themselves, because they have a lifetime habit of being joyful. At Christmas, but in the every day, too. It's my goal as a mother, and sometimes I am good at it, and sometimes not. At Christmas, it's easy. It's easy to stitch together wonderful days, because it is a wonderful season.

Anyway, all that to say, I am going to make some delicious meat pies for our Christmas Eve dinner. I hope it will become a tradition, and that mouth-watering smell will fill the kitchen every year. I hope it settles into them, that warm cozy scent, and always reminds them of home and love and happy times.

I am using a recipe from Natchitoches, which is famous for it's meat pies at Christmas. (I'm nothing if not original, eh?)

Wishing you all could be here with us...

Please, if you have a minute, do share your favorite holiday tradition. I would love to hear them.

Posted by WonderGirl at 5:00 PM | Comments (6)

December 21, 2008

Thoughts of Christmas on a Cold Night

Cold knocks at the windows, but we don't let it in tonight. It is warm and cozy inside, because Christmas has come to our house. The tree winks in the corner, a lucky little pine tree that isn't out in the frigid night. We chose this tree from a Christmas tree farm, cut it ourselves, and brought it home, giddy all the way. Stockings hang on the mantle, empty but hopeful. Handmade paper garland and Christmas projects from the kids are scattered about the house. Popcorn and cranberries are strung on the tree, a white dove on the top as is our tradition, and of course the ugly cotton boll angel and the Christmas pickle hang from it's bows somewhere in there. Gingerbread houses, handmade gifts, candycanes, and wrapping paper rolls turned into swords. Christmas has come, indeed.

The whole house is warm and lovely, and feels "right".

But there's something else, something different this year, that has helped us have a richer, fuller holiday season than ever before. For this past month, we've been doing Advent lessons each night (missing a few here and there). We have worked our way through the Old Testament prophesies, the waiting, the hoping, the need... and now we're into the New Testament fullfillment, the coming of Christ, the great joy of His birth. We sing a song after the Scripture reading, O Come, O Come Emannuel, or Joy to the World, or O Little Town of Bethlehem. We have an advent wreath/ nativity scene, and each Sunday we light one of the tapered candles in it, concluding on Christmas Eve, with the final story of Christ's birth. The difference it has made in the kids is just amazing to me. They really "get it" this year- why we celebrate Christmas, where the joy of this season comes from. They have learned the songs, joined in the discussion about Christ's birth, and they always look forward to what the new candle might be. (Hope, Joy, and Love so far.) It's helped us to focus on, dare I say it--- the Reason for the Season? Catchphrase extraordinaire, the best ones are always the truest.

Anyway, I just wanted to share how we've been preparing for this great day, and how full my heart is of Christmas this year. As my children learn and understand more about what these days mean to us as Christians, I am also drawn back to that humble manger scene. I am drawn back to the greatest moment in history, the moment of God's greatest glory. Helping my children to focus on Him has helped me, too.

This year, the lights seem brighter. The songs are sweeter. The cocoa smoother, the tree prettier. Because everything about Christmas is more, when everything about Christmas is Him. I'm thanking God for refreshing my sight of Him, and I hope that you're tasting the joy of the season, too.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:32 PM | Comments (2)

December 18, 2008

They Don't Call Me Coach for Nothing

One week, people! Let's hustle, hustle hustle! Get the lead out! Let me see you wrap, bake, create, shop, decorate like you mean it! I wanna see those Santa hats on your heads, I want to hear jingle bell earrings and necklaces nonstop! Hang that mistletoe, don't forget your reindeer sweater, and for goodness sake, those cookies for Santa better be moist and delicious! It's crunch time, here's when it counts, here's what you've been working for, so let me see you Christmassing like the Whos in Whoville! I want you to eat, sleep, and BE Christmas. Dig deep, pull out holiday spirit you didn't even know you had!! Go, go go!!

(With seven days to go, I thought you could use a little hard core coaching encouragement from the sidelines. Go team you!!)

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:55 PM | Comments (5)

December 16, 2008

MIA

My poor blog. It's been so neglected lately.

I could say I've been busy, which would be true. Who's not at this time of the year? I could say I have a little blogger fatigue, which would be true. Who doesn't after a gazillion years of blogging? I could mention all the computer/internet problems we've had, which would be true. It's a royal pain in the neck, lemme tell ya.

All those excuses would fly, but the truth is, I've just been in some kind of stasis. I needed some space to get my head back together. After my miscarriage, it seemed like the best thing to do was withdraw a little bit and heal up some before jumping back into life. For the last two months, I've just kept myself to myself, and it was what I needed. I've written a little, here and there, but I haven't given over to it. I haven't dug down deep and shared myself in a long time on this blog. And, arg! I miss it. Don't think for a second I haven't!

I'm glad to say, though, that I'm ready to start writing again. I'm ready to be real again. I like having a place to be transparent, to share the highs and lows, to connect with people on a level that is kind of rare in my day. My relationship with the mailman can only go so far, ya know? He just doesn't have the time to commit to meaningful conversation that all you slackers out there do. Ha.

Anyway.

All that to say, sorry I've been MIA. I appreciate the two or three of you who didn't give up on me and remove me from your blogrolls altogether. You're the best! Thanks for hanging in there.

Okay, duties call. A dirty diaper waits for no man. (or blogger) I'll write again soon, I promise, and it'll be just like old times.

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:59 PM | Comments (1)

December 2, 2008

Secure in His Masculinity

Little known fact about Raphael, the Teenage Mutant Turtle. Sometimes, he cruises around town in the Malibu Barbie convertible. Cause, ya know. A real man -er, turtle- isn't afraid of pink.

I wonder if Ken knows about this? I'm guessing, no.

(This post must be linked to this one, for the sake of a reoccuring theme in my household. Oh, those wild and crazy turtles in a half-shell!)

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:29 PM | Comments (2)

November 24, 2008

It's a Dear Blog Letter

Dear Blog,

We need to talk.

I'm uninspired.

And when I'm not busy being uninspired, I'm busy being busy. So, I know you're wondering what's up with me. The truth is, I need a break. Listen, it's not you, it's me. We're just going different directions in life, ya know? I mean, it's not like either one of us wanted anything serious here. Plus, this long distance thing, it's just tough.

We can still be friends, right? You're like a journal to me, you know.

I just want you to be happy. We'll talk again after Thanksgiving. Tell your mother hello for me, alright?

Love,
WonderGirl

PS... I really will be back 12/1-- just having computer problems and a hectic life right now. I'll misssssss you guys!! Have a happy Thanksgiving!!

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:40 AM | Comments (0)

November 20, 2008

Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings

Sorry I've been a bit absent lately, guys. I've had a sick crew over here, so I've been busy taking temperatures and changing cartoon dvds. In my nursing efforts, I've turned to a tried and true recipe for the best chicken and dumplings you've ever tasted. And, why yes, I'll be happy to share it!! It's honestly much easier to make your own dumplings than you think, and it tastes so much better. Don't be skurred. Just go for it.

This recipe comes from my dear friend Amy's family. Her mother made me a cookbook filled with recipes from my family, from King Pen's family, and some of their own personal favorites. It's the one wedding present that I have used a billion times, and added to many times over the years. I'd be lost without this cookbook!

Anyway, here it is:

2 chicken thighs or breasts- deboned and torn into bite sized pieces
2 1/4 cup All Purpose flour (NOT SELF RISING!!)
1/4 c shortening
1 tsp salt
ice water to make stiff dough
1 can chicken broth, or broth from boiled chicken (actually, I usually end up with 2 cans)
1/2 to 1 cup milk (evaporated will give a richer flavor)

Mix flour and salt, cut in shortening with fork. Add water a little at a time until stiff dough is formed. Roll onto floured surface until thin, cut into strips. Drop into boiling broth (big pot). Cook one minute, then add chicken and milk. Cook until thickened, stirring often, then salt and pepper to taste.

Now, as a side note, if at all possible, try cooking the chicken in a crockpot ahead of time, because it makes the meat sooo tender. I season my chicken with some mild spices, and then I also use the drippings in the broth. It makes a DIVINE dish, I promise. Plus, with your crockpot, you can prepare chicken for lots of dishes/casseroles and freeze it until you need it. This saves me a lot of time!

Okay, that's my post for today. Please don't nominate me for Most Boring Blogger Ever. That would hurt a little. Just remember the good old days, back when I used to be pretty interesting and thought provoking. (A couple kids back, I think, in case you're wondering where in the archives that is. Ha.)

Peace out, and happy eating.

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:47 PM | Comments (5)

November 19, 2008

Don't Psychoanalyze That One.

Oh, my, gosh. What is wrong with me, that as I lay in bed trying to fall asleep, all I can think about are scenes from Erin Brocovich? That's just weird.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:23 AM | Comments (2)

November 16, 2008

Unexpected

Well, I'll be a monkey's uncle. You just would not believe what happened Saturday afternoon. We were invited to an evening neighborhood barbeque (boy, was it FREEZING!!), and we'd been looking forward to it all week. There are not many children around, mostly retirees, so this was a good opportunity for us to network with some folks a few streets down.

Anyway, so we load up the kids, the er, homebaked brownies, and head across the foot bridge to the crowd. I'm mingling a little, watching the kids, warming myself by the fire, and a woman walks up to me and says in amazement, "WonderGirl?" To my utter astonishment, it's an old friend from college, Audrey. She was a fellow resident assistant in the dorms with me, a wonderful Christian girl who is one of the wittiest, sharpest people I've had the pleasure of knowing. I haven't seen her in twelve years, had no idea where she'd ended up or how life turned out for her. And here she is, MY NEIGHBOR. I can see her house from my front yard. Unbelievable. Just when I had resigned myself to the fact that there were NO friends to be had for me here, God plops one down right in front of me, all ready made. Not just in the same town, but within walking distance. How's that for provision? And of all the people He could bring back into my life, Audrey is one of the best. She's genuine, and instant-- she's never met a stranger. It was like I'd just seen her yesterday.

It blows my mind that in all the places she and I could end up in this world, we both live in a podunk little town in Louisiana, just yards apart. God is absolutely the author of this coincidence. I love it when He moves in big, obvious ways-- it's such a good reminder of His love and care for His people.

I cannot tell you how my heart soared to see a friend. I've been here for eleven months without one, and I had begun to despair. We hugged in disbelief, and joy, and it was a wonderful moment.

Of course, only minutes later, this beautiful moment was eclipsed by the site of my three year old peeing in the neighbor's front yard. Right by the tabled with all the food. Directly under the street light.

Sweet.

Life's full of the unexpected, huh?

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:15 PM | Comments (7)

November 7, 2008

Christmas

So, that's my goal. That every gift I give this year be handmade-- not necessarily by ME, but people like me. It feels great! It's actually pretty liberating, and exciting. I'm going to have to really hunt to find the right things. I don't want to be a dork about it, ya know-- like, I know my dad doesn't want a knitted cozy for his coffee cup. It's going to be a stretch for some of the people on my list who are more electronically, gadgetly minded. But, I guarantee, there will be more thought put into these gifts than in something I grabbed in Target.

For the kids, this is a little tricky, though. There are some very particular kinds of toys they like, and I don't want to NOT get them... but they'll get that stuff from other people, right? I just don't want them to be disappointed. Maybe I could bend the rules a LITTLE bit for them. Or, maybe this would be the coolest year of gifts, one they never forget? Maybe I could leave the brand name toy givin' to Santa. Gotta mull this one over a bit.

Anyway, just thought I'd spread the Handmade Pledge around, encouraging you to try it also. In this economy, artisans and crafters, people just like you and me, could really use your support. Wal-Mart has enough of our money, yeah?

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:41 AM | Comments (3)

November 5, 2008

I Feel Cheated

Louisiana apparently doesn't budget for the the "I Voted" stickers. I have no proof that I fulfilled my civic duties yesterday.

So, what about my free stuff from Ben & Jerries, Chik-fil-A, Krispy Kreme, or Starbucks?

Oh, wait. I forget where I live for a minute. We don't have any of those, (except for Starbucks, conveniently located inside Kroger. And what atmosphere, let me tell ya.)

Too bad the Dollar General doesn't give away freebies for voters. You can't walk two blocks without tripping over another one of those.

OOOOh, wow, I'm kinda cantankerous today!

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:54 AM | Comments (3)

November 3, 2008

The List

So, tomorrow's it. Finally! For a minute, let's all not care about who wins the presidency. I'm sick of it all, anyway, aren't you? Instead, let's talk about something that everybody wants us to forget. That monstrous bail-out package. The one that is growing uglier by the day.

When you go to the polls tomorrow, remember who voted YES to the bailout bill. Remember that the American public violently opposed this bill. Remember the massive negative response, the hundreds of thousands of calls, emails, and letters, even PROTESTS, to stop our representatives from voting for this travesty. Remember that we told them what we wanted, and these elected officials DID NOT LISTEN. These people who we elected to REPRESENT us, didn't do their job. They do not deserve reelection. I don't care if it means voting against your party--- this is too important. Vote third party, vote for the new guy, write in Mickey Mouse, whatever you need to do, but let's remove these people who failed us. When we lose our power as the people, then we have nothing. The government has everything. This is too important--- don't let it get lost in the all the hype over the presidential candidacy-- remember, and use your vote to send a message to Washington. For better or worse, they should have listened, even if they thought they knew better than the poor, ignorant masses. Freedom means the right to succeed, and the right to fail. Otherwise, it's not freedom at all.

Here's a list of who voted AYE, and who voted NAY. Use it, or we lose it.

Posted by WonderGirl at 3:12 PM | Comments (1)

October 27, 2008

Unnecessary Photo Documentation of What Came in the Mail Today

So, today I've got something going on with my throat. It's actually been bothering me for the last few mornings, and then finally today, it didn't get better as the day rolled on. It's gotten to the point where I'm better off not talking. So, I've been whispering, gesturing, and ignoring. (Ha.) It's remarkable how odd it has made the day, though. Very peculiar. I am not sure if I'm coming down with a viral sore throat or what (hopefully NOT strep?!) I've got a red, raw throat, and bumps, and my tongue feels really thick and tender. Lymph nodes are swollen as well, and there's no way I could eat anything. But I'm not coughing. So, I don't know. We'll see.

Oh, wait, you didn't want a complete, graphic rundown of my physical status? No pictures of the inside of my throat for your expert diagnosis? Fine then. I'll just move on to another, less gross, much more adorable, topic. How about what came in the mail today? (Oh, don't look so excited. You might hurt yourself!)

My wool felt: (look at all those pretty colors! Aren't they scrumptious?)

And my Softies book, which turned out to be a kit:

It's a box that opens up, with an instruction manual:

And then individual cards with instructions for each of the 15 projects:

It even included some wool felt, embroidery floss, stuffing, and patterns:

Doesn't it look fun? Don't you hope I'm making you one of these for Christmas? I mean, who doesn't want a cute little ice cream pie guy for the holidays?

As a matter of fact, some ice cream would be great on my throat right now. Watch out, little buddy.

Anyway.

That's enough rambling from here. Happy Monday, folks. Hope everybody has a good 'un.

Posted by WonderGirl at 4:59 PM | Comments (5)

October 23, 2008

WWJD? Well, Not This.

A lot on my mind these days, and none of it fits nicely in a bullet point list.

Caught an HBO documentary the other day called "Taxi to the Dark Side". (Not to be confused with "Taxi Cab Confessions". Ew.) This show chronicled the events following 9/11 concerning US interrogation techniques at Abu Ghraib, Bagram and Guantanamo Bay. And basically, how we abandoned the Geneva Convention, and brutalized human beings until finally the Supreme Court stopped the madness. It wasn't until June of this year that the first detainee was granted habeas corpus rights.

I knew it was bad. I mean, I've seen those pictures, I've heard the stories. But, until I saw it all systematically laid out like that, it didn't really penetrate. I know there aren't many Bush supporters left out there-- he's made it VERY difficult to stay on that bandwagon, conservative or not. But if there are any of you out there, please understand that I am not trying to offend you. And if you want to defend him, then you're welcome to it. But what he did, what he allowed to happen to these people in custody of the US Government-- was wrong. Atrocious. And it's not just that he allowed it-- oh no, it wasn't that passive. He is the one, along with Donald Rumsfield, that pushed for less restraint in interrogations. He's the one that included waterboarding, something that the entire rest of the world considers torture. Not to mention the sexual abuse, the dehumanization, the physical and mental torture of these people.

I cannot understand how a man who calls himself Christian, perpetuated some of the greatest indignities and tortures inflicted on another human in our country's history. I simply cannot resolve it in my mind. I know how fearful a time it was, how desperate we were for information, how much we wanted to prevent another terrorist act. But even with all that, there has to be a line we won't cross, no matter what it costs us, especially those of us who call ourselves Christians. We abandoned the Geneva Convention, no small thing. It's a code that the whole world has agreed to abide by, because we are a civilized race. It upholds the value of life, all life, friend or foe! It says, there are certain atrocities NO human deserves, no matter what the situation, be he an ally or enemy. How quickly we tossed it aside, when it stood in our way. Where is the global tribunal? Why wasn't Bush held accountable for violating the G.C.?

It bears thinking, how far would we have gone to get the information we wanted? Under the whole mindset of that moment, why not bring in their families, and torture them, too? Their children, wives? That would have gotten them talking, don't ya think? Nothing was stopping us. We needed to protect ourselves. How much more would we have justified in order to protect American soil?

When Bush was finally ordered by the Supreme Court to reign it in, and told him he must abide by the Geneva Convention, he created a loophole for himself. He quickly passed legislation that said basically, "yes, but it will be according to my own interpretation of those edicts- oh, and while we're at it, I and those in my administration can't be charged with ANY WAR CRIMES now or in the future." He pardoned HIMSELF, people. No joke.

I don't think I am overly idealistic. I do not intend for known terrorists or enemy combatants to have a cozy little stay with us. I do not love terrorists, and I do not hate America. I am not being unpatriotic. And don't dare tell me to "love it or leave it" because that is in NO way the Biblical response to these kinds of issues! (grr!!) All that being said, I do understand the value of intelligence gained from those we've captured. But, there are other ways. Information given under duress is BAD info. It's unreliable, much of the time completely fabricated!

There are others ways, more cumbersome, lengthy methods, but they work better, and the info isn't tainted. It's a fact, one that John McCain, with his first hand experience, has testified to before Congress. Torture doesn't work.

But, say you've exhausted all the non-torture methods, and the info has dried up. Well, that's it. It ends there! There have to be principles we will not relinquish under any circumstance. It's awful, I know. I don't want another 9/11, and neither do you. But we do what we can, within the confines of our faith. We obey God's commandments, and we trust Him. And we must elect leaders who will do the same. The alternative, well- rebellion to God's commands only leads to one end. Death. If we turn away from Him, we turn towards destruction. Individually, and as a nation.

Anyway, I realize this is a random, depressing sort of rant. But it's been weighing on me, and I don't know what else to do with it but yell it out. Being a Christian doesn't mean you've got to be PollyAnna all the time. I do not feel defeated by the battles of this world, but I am affected by them. I grieve over them. I think we who cling to justice, which comes from God, ought to be keenly aware of injustice. It is why we are here, to be light in the darkness.

You can yell, too, if you want. Maybe if there are enough of us, and we're loud enough, then this sort of thing won't happen again in our lifetime. Maybe, if we all send our next president one of those bracelets with "WWJD?" printed on it, he'll look down at his wrist and notice it the next time legislation like this is handed to him.

Because Jesus Wouldn't Do That.

Posted by WonderGirl at 4:08 PM | Comments (2)

October 17, 2008

Just for Joy

So, my Etsy store has been a little quiet lately. I've been doing some things by commission, so it's not exactly reflective of the amount of business I'm actually doing. But, still, it's slowed down some. Which is fine by me. I am realizing this will be more of a summer and holiday business, because schooling and mothering takes up a great deal of my day.

I've got some really lovely material waiting to be turned into slings, and I'm eager to see how they turn out. I've begun experimenting with different color palettes and ribbons and things on my tote bags. I even tried my hand at embroidery for the first time on a pillow for my mom's birthday. (It came out a bit childish, but she said she liked it. Just like that popsicle house I made her that time in Girl Scouts.) I have plans for some fall dresses for Czarina, some personalized gifts for Christmas, and some items for my own home. All these projects allow me to indulge my creative side and be practical at the same time. I'm glad for that. I'll take it where I can get it.

While there are lots of ideas churning around in my mind, and my hands are itching to get to them, I have to admit, there is one project that is solely, completely, just for fun. And it's the one I am most excited- no, I'm downright GIDDY about. And that is learning how to create things from wool felt. I ordered a multipack color set, and two books from Amazon about Japanese felting. Here's the kind of stuff I'm talking about:

Once I get the technique down, I know this is something I could really, really love. I'm sure I could sell them in some form or give them as gifts, but I have to confess that's not why I want to learn how to make them. I just want to because they are SO UNBELIEVABLY CUTE. There are endless possibilities to the cuteness.

And, folks, it's nice to do something just 'cause you want to. Not because you have to, need to, ought to, or anything else. Just for the joy of it. Simply for the pleasure it brings you. Just because it makes you smile.

We need some things in our life like that, don't you think? We need playfulness. We are so wrapped up in being efficient and sensible, which are not bad things... but not all of life is so practical. If we only let in the things that are functional, those things that pay for themselves or can be counted as sound investments of our time and money and attention... well, we miss out on so much. We need fanciful, quixotic things that serve no real purpose, except to lighten our spirits. There has to be a place within us, a small spot in the back, where we can give over to the whimsy of life.

I don't need this little owl in my life. He wouldn't save me time or money. I can't eat him, or wear him, or use him to clean something in my house. He is absolutely unnecessary in any practical sense.

But, I know I need him, for that very reason.

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:28 PM | Comments (3)

October 15, 2008

I'd Rather Have Ice Cream

Fee-diddle.

I've been torn over this upcoming election ever since Ron Paul dropped out. In my perfect world, I'd proudly put a check by his name on the ballot. He is awesome.

But it ain't happening.

As a matter of fact, the whole idea of voting third party throws me off a bit. I'm uncertain about whether to vote ideologically, or realistically. Things will NEVER change, we'll ALWAYS have a two-party system, unless we are willing to "throw away" our vote on a third party. For a while anyway, until everybody sees that voting third party is a legitimate option and could actually work, and work BETTER.

Besides, the two parties we have are both a mess, with very little actual difference between them. Somebody told me once, the only difference between the Republican and Democratic parties is about sixty years. Today's Republican looks a lot like yesterday's Democrat. And neither one looks like ME.

Suffice it to say, voting for the lesser of two evils just isn't very appealing. But neither is the feeling that if my vote can possibly help keep somebody I dislike more out of office, then it would be a shame not to use it. In my mind, one candidate is preferable to the other... but not by a very big margin.

It's like having to choose between strawberry flavored crud and chocolate flavored crud. I mean, I like chocolate better, but still. It's crud. I'd rather have ice cream. Can I ask for that, even if I know I won't get it?

Please, opine. I won't bite. With the weeks dwindling away towards the election, I hate being this uncertain... so do share your thoughts!

Third party, or lesser of two evils?

Posted by WonderGirl at 3:03 PM | Comments (10)

October 14, 2008

Giving Your Life

This quote comes from Brandy, who scours the net for encouraging, uplifting words for moms. She is a master of finding just the right thing I need to hear on a particular day. I really love her blog. The quote originates from this site.

Once a lady went to visit her friend. During the visit the children of the friend entered the room and began to play with each other. As the lady and her friend visited, the lady turned to her friend and said eagerly and yet with evidently no thought of the meaning of her words: "Oh, I'd give my life to have such children." The mother replied with a subdued earnestness whose quiet told of the depth of experience out of which her words came: "That's exactly what it costs."

There is a cost of motherhood. And the price is no small sum. And if you are not willing to pay this price, no amount of encouragement about the joys of motherhood will satisfy.

But the price of motherhood is not fundamentally different from the price of being a disciple of Jesus Christ. In fact, Christian mothers see their duty as mothers flowing from their calling to Jesus Christ. And what is this cost?

Christian motherhood means dedicating your entire life in service of others. It means standing beside your husband, following him, and investing in the lives of children whom you hope will both survive you and surpass you. It means forgoing present satisfaction for eternal rewards. It means investing in the lives of others who may never fully appreciate your sacrifice or comprehend the depth of your love. And it means doing all these things, not because you will receive the praise of man -- for you will not -- but because God made you to be a woman and a mother, and there is great contentment in that biblical calling.

I appreciate these words-- in a way I couldn't before I had children. Oh, I knew, it would be hard, gross even at times (and boy was I right!!). But I had no idea of the spiritual excercise that motherhood truly is. It is the hardest thing I've ever done, because it requires me to battle my selfish nature every single day. There is no doubt, motherhood is a blessing, children are a gift from God. But beyond the tender moments, the Mother's Day cards and macaroni necklaces, the blessing can come in the form of potential, possibility. Motherhood presents constant opportunities to grow spiritually-- you are given daily, hourly chances to self-sacrifice and bear the fruits of the spirit (kindness, gentleness, self-control). Sometimes, I fail miserably-- I am so far from patience or meekness that it's sad. But the blessing continues, and I'll have another chance to work on that, in fifteen seconds flat.

I needed to be a mom. My soul needed it. God knew it, and gave me four amazing children who help me to work out my salvation every day. It's hard work, but everything that's worth something is. Motherhood costs a life, but it gives you one, too.

Anyway, just a few thoughts on a midmorning Tuesday. On to the day.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:29 AM | Comments (2)

October 13, 2008

I Can't Think of a Non-Sacreligious Title

So I'll just post the pics.

Thanks to King Pen, I've now officially begun my collection of Santos. He spotted a bubble gum machine filled to the brim with Saints, half a buck each. Not the football team. Oh, no, this is much, much better. These are the actual, canonized saints of the church. In itty bitty collectible format.

And who can walk away from that, folks? Seriously? So, my sweet man dug two quarters out of his pocket, and brought me home some blog material. Boy, does he know the way to my heart! I've got my fingers crossed that he'll finish out the collection on Valentine's Day.

I started out big-- I got Mary. I know- you're jealous. Try not to be- that's a sin.

I'll try to recreate the moment for you. First, in the bubble. I wasn't sure what she was at first. The cloudy plastic is a veritable veil of mystery!

And here, liberated from her bubble prison! Oh the vision!

Up close, floating in a sea of white. And I just love a good pair of strong, stout hands on a woman!

It was a beautiful moment.

Next time, I'm hoping for the Virgin De Guadalupe. I hear they only made a limited number of those, though, so I'll try not to get my hopes up too high.

You can consider the above image my official Christmas list.

(That is, if I haven't jumped from the Nice List to the Naughty List with this post. I'll admit, it's borderline. But still. Hey, look! A bird! Over there!)

Posted by WonderGirl at 1:09 PM | Comments (5)

October 12, 2008

Gathered

I counted, there were twenty-seven.

That's how many people were in church today. For the last few weeks, we've been visiting a reformed Baptist church, tucked away in the country. A small, nearly impossible-to-catch sign points the way down a side road, where twenty-seven people gather on a good day to worship. Last Sunday, there were thirty-five gathered, and I overheard many amazed exclamations.

They meet in a trailer church (I didn't even know they made those but apparently they do) in a big pasture. The building is smaller than my house, and could use some loving touches, but for some reason, we are drawn to them. There is kindness there, and warmth, and people who are looking in the right direction. They don't have it all ironed out yet- they are not an established church on well-trod territory. They're still figuring out what they believe and how to express that in worship and daily life-- but they are seeking.

So, here we are, after ten months of searching ourselves, and we are starting to feel a peace about this place. It would be a completely different kind of church experience for us. We've been fortunate for our entire married life, to find churches on solid ground, ones that ministered to us and honestly, didn't need all that much in return. We've benefited from the hard work of others- those founding fathers who helped lay down the foundation of excellent churches. We've been so blessed to be a part of those congregations. It was especially helpful to me in those early years as I worked out what I believed, to be in churches with sound, steadfast teaching. But this, well this is very different. It's a fledgling body, just beginning to work out the mechanisms of reformed theology. I do not mean that in a condescending way at all- it's a beautiful thing! I am encouraged by them, by their belief that if they continue to study God's word, that He will lead them in the direction He wants them to go. How fertile a field they make themselves- how can we not want to be a part of that?

Today, there were indeed, only twenty seven. But a few weeks ago, there were only twenty one. God drew us there, six bodies that filled up a single pew. And I am certain, we are only one of many families to come-- because God blesses the willingness of His people.

We'll continue to pray about His direction in our life, but we both feel good about this church. Now that we're getting past the unknown visitor stage, we're hoping to learn more about them as a congregation and denomination... and maybe, God willing, we'll have found our church home.

S'good. Because the gypsy life... we'll, she's not for me. I just wanna go home.

Posted by WonderGirl at 2:59 PM | Comments (1)

October 9, 2008

Refreshing.

HeroBoy, asking for a piece of the gum King Pen and I were chewing the other day, extolled the wonders of peppermint. "It makes your voice smell so good!" he said.

It certainly does.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:27 AM | Comments (1)

Costumology

Well, it's that time of year again. Whoohoo! Halloween! This year, Czarina wants to be a Chinese Fighting Girl (which I love). She's got an authentic outfit from her uncle picked up on his travels to China, and I'm going to maker her a mask. HeroBoy wants to be Darth Vader, despite never seeing a single Star Wars movie. The Duke wants to be Batman, which is cute and easy because we already have half of that costume floating around here somewhere. And Chipmunk is completely at my mercy. Haven't decided on him yet, but I'm feeling creative. I wanna have fun with his, before he insists on being SpiderMan or a Power Ranger.

And of course, there's MY costume. What to be, what to be?

We'll trick-or-treat (cause we do that) Friday night in Monroe with some cousins, and then on Saturday, attend an All-Saint's Day Country Fair. It's going to be a GREAT weekend! Oh how I love October!

So, costumes. What are your kids gonna be-- and will you dress up, too? Do tell!!

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:18 AM | Comments (9)

October 5, 2008

Remember This

Tonight, I try to memorize her voice. I etch the sweetness of her high pitched, little girl cadence into my mind as she reads aloud about a unicorn named Twilight who helps to rescue a kitten named Sparkle. And when it is my turn to read, and the kitten faces the dangers of a barn fire, I can feel her heart overcome with concern. And my own is overcome with who she is right now, right in this instant. She is unicorns and kittens and rainbows... it is funny and precious, and I want to remember it exactly as it is.

I open all my senses, making myself a blank slate for her to write upon. I will my mind to make a perfect memory of her, exactly as she is at this moment. Her still squeaky voice, her shiny curls clean from a bath, her long limbs with all the bumps and bruises of a tomboy, her nimble and elegant fingers fluttering the pages... I call upon everything in me, the billions of neurons hard at work, to make no mistakes in recording my child. Please, help me, I say. This is the most important job you have.

Because, I know, oh how I know. I will want this back.

As much as I look forward to in her life, as proud as I am to see her moving and growing... I will want this back. I know it in my bones, as you know it in yours.

It is this thought that has helped me reach a decision about whether to keep blogging or not. This blog is a lot of things, but it's most important function in my life is as a Keeper. This is where I hide my treasures. This is where I squirrel away the good things in life, building up a stash of all the things I'll want back.

So, I'll keep writing. It may change tone a little. It may be less frequent. But what's here will matter to me in ten years, more than having a little extra time to read or jog or sew. I am not ready to stop writing, not when there is so much inspiration around me.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:41 PM | Comments (5)

October 3, 2008

Calling Your Congressman

isn't really so difficult. I have to admit, I had never done it before. Guess that doesn't reflect well on me, but it's true. From now on though, it will be my new hobby. I will be calling all. the. time. They're gonna be totally sick of me.

Anyway, so I called last week, and I was nervous as all get out. I can't say why- I mean, I'm a grown-up. I've operated a phone before. But, still, it was like calling up Emerald City and asking for the great and powerful wizard. I was suprised somebody actually ANSWERED! I expected an automated message center, or more likely, a busy signal. But no- I spoke with a real, live thirteen-year old intern person, who listened thoughtfully, took my name and number (carefully dotting the "i's" with little hearts, I'm sure), and promised to pass on my sentiments to the Congressman. (Right after they finish watching the end of Highschool Musical 3, of course.)

Well, then.

So, if I can do it, you can, too. Here is the link for phone numbers. It's really easy, takes about two minutes.

If you are against this bail-out bill, then call! Now! This is the way to stop it. It is scheduled for a vote at noonish, so you've still got time to make your thoughts known. This is how it works- we've got to participate in this process by letting our representatives know how we want to be represented, no matter what the issue is or how you stand on it. Now is the time to stir ourselves, not just one day in November every four years, ya know?

.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:47 AM | Comments (1)

September 30, 2008

Fini?

Sorry I haven't been blogging lately. It's just... I got nothing! I mean, there are things to blog about, tons of them. But I don't seem to be interested in writing lately. I am busy, but that's nothing new, and it's not really the problem, either. I just sit at the computer, staring at the white screen and the cursor blinking... and I think, "eh."

I get that way sometimes, and I wonder if it means I'm done blogging. But then I always seem to swing back into it. It's just that this time, it's been this way for several months. Longer than it's ever gone before. I am wondering if that means I am truly cycling out of it--- which makes me really sad. I don't want to quit, honestly I don't. But my heart's not in it these days. I know you can see it too-- my posts have been pretty lackluster lately. And infrequent. I remember when I used to write every single day, sometimes twice in a day! Oh, the puppy love of blogging! I'm through the honeymoon... and now I'm left wondering if I'm gonna make it through the long haul. Five years is a long time-- my blog is no spring chicken. Is it time for retirement? What's the life cycle of a blog?

I'll have to give this some thought. Any other long-time bloggers out there know what I'm saying? What did you do when you get to this point?

Well, I'm off. In-laws are coming for a visit, school is waiting, and the house needs to be reassembled!

Don't worry, we'll chat this topic over some more. I'm not closing the doors here yet... just saying, I'm questioning if it's run it's course. Wah.

Okay, that's enough of that. Be back later.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:49 AM | Comments (4)

September 18, 2008

Birth of a Blog Post

3 a.m. I'm sleeping peacefully, dreaming of no less than the gorgeous Destin beach. It's magnificent, y'all. I'm back on vacation again-- how much better can a dream get? When suddenly, I am snatched out of my slumber by the sounds of one of my children being eaten by a tiger. I know this, because of the horrific screeches and howling coming from the Duke's bedroom. So I abandon Dreamland Destin, and race to my poor helpless child's side in a surge of maternal fierceness. Mom to the rescue- back ye beastly fiend who seeks to devour my child!! I fly into his room, guns blazing.

Well, it turns out, he's just gotta potty.

Really? You let loose those ungodly screams because your bladder was a little bit full? I was pretty sure you were being eaten alive. 'Cause, ya know, that was the vibe you were giving off. Are you SURE there wasn't a man-eating, yellow-eyed predator eating you whole? No?

I left Destin for this, you know.

Gar.

So I get back in bed, thinking "oh, the wonderous, amazing, totally insane brain of a three year old. I gotta blog about that."

Then, because I accidentally noticed that it was 3 a.m. on the clock, I immediately get insomnia. I proceeded, for the next HOUR, to compose a lengthy essay on all the ways a three year old is absolutely nuts. I was wide awake- it was that weird hour that totally befuddled my body. Are we up? Am I done?, it asks. My composition was interrupted by arguements with my body, desperate pleas for sleep, and finally, a nagging, relentless sense that now I needed to get up for the bathroom.

I, of course, did not scream about it. 'Cause I'm considerate that way.

Anyway, after an hour or so of tossing and turning, I finally fall asleep again.

Do I dream of Destin again? Oh no. This time, I am a waitress, working double shifts at some rundown bar, and my feet hurt.

-sigh-

He is SO hearing about this when he has kids of his own.

PS... Oh, and that hour long post I composed in my head? Well, this is not it. I, of course, promptly forgot it the second I closed my eyes. Grr.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:03 AM | Comments (5)

September 17, 2008

What Helps

1. Declare an Emergency Cleaning Day, and cease all other activities.
2. Turn up the music.
3. Open the windows.
4. Start with the Laundry room.
5. Throw away some old, sad panties. Ha.

Seriously, after getting some emotional support from King Pen (who is absolutely the best fella for the job)-- I am getting on top of my game here. I decided we needed a work day-- that when my environment is chaotic, I simply cannot function. Maybe that's a weakness, maybe it's a bit anal or type A, but I really suffer in clutter. So, no school today, which I dislike, but it's for the best. Due to one thing or another (like a 4 hour trip to the pediatrician Monday and birthday happenings yesterday), I haven't been able to get settled from vacation. Suitcases, piles of laundry, dishes, candles still out from the hurricane, you name it. This place was on the verge of being condemned (except, it wasn't actually GROSS. Just horribly askew. My, how I love that word-- askew. Come on, say it with me.)

Anyway, just let you all know I am gonna survive Gulliver's Travels. I'm squashing Lilliputs left and right!

Oh, that's wrong.

Okie dokie- off to it! Will blog when this place is whipped into shape.

Posted by WonderGirl at 1:34 PM | Comments (1)

The Little Things United

Today, I am Gulliver, washed upon the shores of Lilliput. I have been tacked down by hundreds of tiny ropes, a million miniscule tasks, and I can't manage to overcome them. At least this morning.

Coming home with a dozen suitcases and random stuff means a lot of work. Throw in the effort of restoring the house to order (inside and out) after the hurricane-- plus getting back to school, and picking up my sewing business, not to mention the looming task of editing hundreds of pictures from our trip...

well, the list goes on. It seems silly to mention them all, because truly, they are all small, achievable tasks. But there are so many. It's daunting. I had hoped that a cup of coffee would perk me up for it all, but that was overly-optimistic. Even a cup o'joe has it's limitations.

Okay, enough of that, yeah? Nothing to do, but do it-- one rope at a time. Maybe if accomplish one task completely, I'll feel better.

When I get to editing the pictures, you'll be the first to know. I have lots of good ones to share-- and I'll recap our trip, too, when I post the pics. Don't give up on me, know that I'm here, working my way through. It's just slow going. But---

I'll be back. (And yes, I said that Terminator style. Because it's a pop-culture law.)

Missing yas.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:41 AM | Comments (1)

September 5, 2008

One Last Hurrah (cane?)

We're headed to Destin tomorrow-- me and the kids (the kids and I? Come on, grammar police, straighten me out- I know you can't resist), my mom, Aunt Charlotte, my cousin Laura, sister Ashley and her family, and my youngest sister Brittany. Ashley and her crew will be staying in their RV at a campsite near our condo. It will be, undoubtedly, absolutely fabulous. Unless, of course, Ike decides to pop in for a visit. The fabulous quotient drops dramatically if he comes along.

So we're (somewhat) packed up and ready for some serious lazing around on the beach. We've got games and books and sunblock-- can't think of much more that we need than that! Maybe some margarita mix? I'll have to add that to my list of last minute items to pick up. Actually, I am a little nervous about what exactly made it into the suitcase, since I was packing in the dark as we fled Gustav. Who knows? I may very well need to buy myself an entire wardrobe while we're there. That would be just plum awful-- all new clothes. Shame, that.

I'll be taking a few days off from the Sift to enjoy this last little bit of summer. I'll try to coax my camera into taking one last round of photos-- it's on it's last leg. (Note my cavalier attitude, oh transparent bravado! I don't want you to see me cry. -sniff- She was a good camera, y'all. She was an expensive camera, and it hurts, people. It hurts.)

Anywhoo, hope you all have a good weekend, followed by a good week-- and I will see you later. You may not recognize me, with my gorgeous beach tan!

Well, we all need to dream.

Happy days, everybody. I'll miss ya.

PS... Thank you to King Pen's parents for putting us up for the last few days. It's good to know the door's always open. (Or, the window can be shimmied. Heh.) Seriously, thank you. We loves ya.

Posted by WonderGirl at 3:30 PM | Comments (0)

September 4, 2008

Update

Hi all! Quick update- we rode out Gustav, which was, admittedly, fun. I enjoy storms. (Why do I feel guilty confessing that?) Anyway, we were fortunate with no damage to our house. There were trees and limbs all over the city and of course, no power. We stayed one night and then when it was clear enough, we drove up to Monroe to stay with family. We are just not equipped to go a long time without power, and with small kids, it would have been miserable! I can't fathom when the city will be put back together again-- maybe sometime next week? Anyway, we're here for the time being, until the kids and I leave on an all-ready planned trip to Destin with my mom and sisters. (We leave on Saturday for that!) Keeping our fingers crossed that Ike won't pester us for that one. Boy, I tell you, it was FUN packing for a week long beach trip in the DARK! There is no telling what is in my suitcases right now. Anyway.

In the meantime, King Pen has to report back to work, even though most of the employees don't have electricity. I guess you have to do what you have to do, eh? He'll basically be camping out at our house next week, and hopefully it will be repaired quickly.

Anyway, just wanted to let you all know we're fine. Thanks for all the calls and emails-- I appreciate your concern. I'll try to write again before we leave for the beach! Have a good weekend, and good luck with the weather.

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:01 PM | Comments (2)

August 31, 2008

Hurricane Preparedness

Keeping an eye on Gustav, I bought a few supplies earlier in the week- water, candles, extra diapers. Nothing fancy, just enough to get us through a day or two of no electricity. I didn't want to go overboard, but I didn't want to be entirely unprepared, either.

Unfortunately, a flat tire yesterday prompted me to go to Wal-Mart for a repair. I had an hour to kill while waiting for it to be fixed--- and so, as I walked the crowded aisles, I caught a full-blown case of Illogical Hurricane Panic. It happens, EVERY-SINGLE-TIME. I am helpless to fight it. I remembered writing about it before during Rita, and I am reposting it, because the EXACT same thing happened yesterday, and it made me laugh all over again.

The grocery store is a happening place before a hurricane, I tell ya. Nothing hypes me up like joining the throngs of folks furiously buying peanut butter and Chicken Corn Chowder. The excitement is palpable, and I am one of the first to be swept up in the mania. I start eyeballing other people's carts, to see what they are buying. If they buy it, well, that settles it. I am, too. Cause I need it. Storm's coming. I have to fight the urge to sweep everything off the shelf into my waiting (and already full) buggy.

So I bring back stuff I haven't eaten in fourteen years. Fig newtons? What the? We don't eat those! And what on earth am I going to do with pickled garbanzo beans? The Cheese Whiz was a big hit with King Pen, but it didn't go over so well in my conservative pantry. The "regulars" don't take to well to outsiders, and their foreign spraying habits. It started out with whispers and glares, but it's escalated. I swear I heard some trash talking and rumbling around in there. I'm just staying out of the way. What happens in the pantry, stays in the pantry.

And the toilet paper, oh help me. It's ridiculous. There will be no purchase of Northen Quilt in our home until well after the New Year. And that's if we are outrageously wasteful. I'm racking my brain for other uses, and so far I've come up with a few awesome Christmas presents. (Look forward to it, friends. I'm talking some seriously top notch gifts here.)

I mustn't forget the water. Aah, the WATER. Well, everybody else had so much... It would have been irresponsible NOT to buy enough to drink, and cook, and bathe us (and the cat). And gargle. I mean, you have to do that everyday. And mop? Well, the floor can get awfully dirty with all that mud. And we might need some entertainment, so we'll probably do some water balloons or something. Oh, and heck, let's fill the pool up, too - cause I BOUGHT EIGHTY THOUSAND GALLONS.

And for crying out loud, why did I need three tubes of hydrocortisone cream and a shower cap? That's just weird.

Two days from now, when I am surrounded with all these unused items, I shall feel quite silly indeed.

But better safe than sorry, right? Yeah, that's exactly what got me in this mess.

Well, I will end here. I'll try to write tomorrow, as long as we have power. Now, I have to finish putting away the last bit of things. Let's see, that's twelve bags of ginger snaps, some tweezers, and the economy sized box of dryer sheets.

It seemed reasonable at the time, trust me.

Ah, good times.

All joking aside, we are prepared for a few days without electricity-- we are in the projected path, so better safe than sorry. By the time it gets to us though, it will probably just be tropical force winds (though it could still be a Cat 1.) I will admit, I am concerned about all the tall pine trees around us--- I just don't want one of those suckers toppling over! I'll check back in as often as possible. Take care!

Posted by WonderGirl at 6:08 PM | Comments (0)

Recollecting

Ironic, isn't it, that Katrina is so fresh in our minds these last few days, as Gustav looms off in the distance? I went through my archives, and found this post that brings it all back clearly- written August 31, 2005, exactly three years ago today.

I've been holding these thoughts too closely the last few days -and needed them out in the air.

I've got that post 9/11 feeling. Know what I mean? Stunned. Disillusioned. Lucky. Guilty.

It's not my home that has been reduced to a pile of kindling. It's not my family wading through polluted waters to higher ground. It's not my baby transferred to a hospital all alone, with no idea where the parents are, or if they are even still alive. It's not the precious pieces of my life floating away with the receding tide.

Can you feel the weight of grief as thousands mourn the loss of homes and communities and lives? Their fear and worry are like physical pulls on my soul right now. And once again, my life and loves are all safe and sound. Warm, dry, fed, and clothed. Once more, I have been passed over, and others have not. Relief mingles with guilt. And fear. How many times will tragedy look past me? How long can I remain invisible to the fates? The Chinese fear to draw the attention of the gods-- because they are jealous and vindictive. In China, you never say anything is too good, because the gods will hear and take it from you. Sometimes I feel that way, even though the God I worship is the very fountain of all the good things in my life. He would not take them away in spite.

And yet, I know, my life has been strangely absent of tragedy. It scares me, because surely my number will come up soon. I'm due something really bad by now. You can't be untouched forever, right? What will it be? Cancer? An accident? Will I have the fortitude to survive my own personal Kasandra?

Tomorrow, I will probably go back to my house, which now has electricity. I will rake up the leaves, pick up the sticks, and put my life back into gear. Because I can. Because it's still there. But tomorrow- what will all these other people do? And the day after that, what then? Their lives are scattered along the coast in little bitty pieces, and I don't know how to make that any better.

But God did. God does. No matter how the winds roar or waters rise, no matter what devastation crashes upon the shores of our lives, God knows how to put it all back together again. We may lose all, we may cry out to the dark sky, we may be wounded and bleeding-- but God is there, He hears, and He heals. I know it- I know that I know that I know.

Prayers and thoughts with all in the path of this storm. God bless and preserve you- be safe.

Posted by WonderGirl at 1:23 AM | Comments (1)

August 29, 2008

A Day at the Lake

View the rest of our lake pictures on Facebook! (And yes, because I'm too lazy to put them up in two places.)

Next pics to come-- first day of school!

Posted by WonderGirl at 2:01 PM | Comments (0)

August 28, 2008

Lacing Up

Well, today we become official homeschoolers.

Today, we skate.

Every decent, well-respected homeschooled kid can tear it up at a roller rink. (Or so I've been told.) This is the first time my kids have ever been, and I can't wait. I have recruited my mom to help, because there is no way I can handle four kids on wheels. (I may be good, but I'm not that good! Ha!) I'll be taking my camera-- I must immortalize these moments forever-- Czarina's long, coltish legs in motion, HeroBoy's nonchalant, James Dean attitude even on skates, the Duke's itty bitty clumsy self and big curly head, probably pulling me down! (That's right, I'll blame it on the children. They make me do all kinds of embarassing things.) All to Michael Jackson's Thriller- which hopefully, the Chipmunk will be dancing to from the sidelines. If I can get all that on film, then I will be one happy mama. Does life get any better than that?

Only if I had the pom-poms on my skates. -wistful sigh-

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:33 AM | Comments (4)

August 26, 2008

Status Report: Alive.

I am so beat. So brain-dead, I can guarantee this will be the most boring blog post EVAH.

Where do I start? With the weekend of innertubing and (attempted) wakeboarding that resulted in a frantic need for a chiropractor? (I would have kidnapped one if I could have on Monday. If I'd had use of my arms, that is.)

Should I post all our lake pictures (which need to be resized and all that first?) Or should I post the ones from the kid's first day of school today, and relate how our first day back went?

Or should I write about the rollerskating field trip on Thursday? My mom coming on Wednesday night? Or the company coming this weekend? (Can't wait, Denise!!)

Or, instead of writing, should I be folding the laundry, filing the piles of coupons waiting to be put away, washing supper dishes, or starting on the THREE tote bags that are waiting for me? Or, and shhh-- don't say this one too loud-- could I sneak back into my bedroom and read a few more chapters of that new Diana Gabaldon book that's just calling my name? Oh, the things to be done!!

At least, I've got all my school stuff ready for tomorrow. That's about the extent of my preparation for this week's activities. Scary.

I think, for the moment, I'm going to go make myself a bowl of Cocoa Puffs. And then we'll see about all that other stuff, yeah?

Just wanted to check in, letcha know I'm not dead. More blogging tomorrow! Even if it means not doing laundry. 'Cause you all mean just that much.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:06 PM | Comments (2)

August 22, 2008

Funny to Me

Yesterday, while watching HeroBoy play Webkinz on the computer, I noticed that his pet, Fang, (the striped snake, FYI) had made a huge mess in his room. Toys, books, scooters, you name it. The place was a wreck.

And I actually heard myself say, about an internet pretend place THAT DOESN'T EVEN EXIST IN THIS DIMENSION, "Whoa, HeroBoy, you have GOT to clean that up, seriously!" And when he laughed and didn't do it, I had to PHYSICALLY stop from doing it myself.

That's just what I need. Now I've got to pick up after my son's internet pet. 'Cause I've got all this free time on my hands, of course.

Also, funny to me-

Today, I was looking for a recipe in the cookbook, and for the life of me couldn't find the hamburger meat section. I looked and looked, and finally in exasperation, unintentionally demanded aloud, "Where's the BEEF??"

I was entirely too amused by that.

Then, very sad. Because, let's face it, this probably qualifies me as "old" and "confusing" to the young peoples.

Okay, I'm off to bed. We're loading up tomorrow for a few days at Lake Bruin (in Louisiana, y'all) and there is much to do and sleep is needed. I'll post lots of pictures Monday of HeroBoy waterskiing, I'm sure, and of Czarina riding very ladylike (and not at all terrified, no ma'am) in the innertube.

Hope everybody has a good weekend!

Posted by WonderGirl at 1:10 AM | Comments (4)

August 21, 2008

Arctic Blue on My Eyes

I've been poking around in my archives lately, and republishing some old entries from my first blog, A Peck of Gold. Remember that one? I still have many to sort through, but the effort has me taken me back to my blogging beginnings. Ah, the good old days, back in '03. Let's see, I was a mother of two, 27 years old, and basically clueless.

Now, a mother of four, 32 years old, and still largely clueless. Go figure.

It's funny though, reading those early posts. I had NO IDEA what I was doing. I just wrote whatever I could to fill the page. It's like seeing old pictures of myself where I'm learning to put on makeup (you can never wear too much blue eyeshadow), or fix my own hair (everybody had wings, dadgummit! Not just me!!)

Laughable, sweet, definitely embarassing. There's color on my face, sure. But, oh how inexpertly applied.

It took a long time to learn how to give over to blogging, to begin sharing how I felt and where I was-- and not just post funny (and often not-quite-so funny) links. I wonder how much of writing honestly has come from just the process of growing up, maturing-- or if it is the honest writing that has helped me to grow up. Probably both.

These thoughts inevitably lead me to think-- if I see myself as endearingly blundersome five years ago, will I see the same about these days, these posts, five years from now? How much change waits for me in the years to come? I'll be 37-- mother of four (?), and still largely clueless, I'm sure.

I certainly hope I look back at these posts and chuckle at myself, because that will mean that God is still working in me. I hope for that bemused retrospection- that today's wisdom will be tomorrow's foolishness. I hope I see blue eyeshadow.

But, lest I paint it too cheerfully, I will confess- I do not only laugh when I read old posts. I weep, too.

There are many entries that I never published that were too raw, too lost, too shameful, to ever share aloud. They came from the dark moments over the last few years, times when I was in rebellion to God, when I was running from wisdom and righteousness. I read those, and I can't help but thank God that He wasn't done with me. I can't help but rejoice in the many miles covered in the last five years, and beg Him for even more in the five to come. This blog has marked the steps. I began it for entirely different reasons, but somewhere along the way, it became a scrapbook of my life. My joy, my sorrow, my fear... it all comes out here, in some form. And I wouldn't have it any other way.

The one encouragement I would give as a veteran blogger (yikes, and as if anybody was asking in the first place!)-- is, Write honestly. Let your blog be a chronicle, for better or worse. Don't be afraid to show yourself. It's scary sometimes, because, shoot. We're all messes. I don't want you to know how offbase I can be, and I know you don't want to broadcast your own faults, either. Who wants that?

But, it is in the looking back that we can truly marvel at the distance covered. It is in knowing just what disastrous, misled, foolish notions we have entertained, that we can see how God has corrected and sanctified and healed. It is in seeing our bright blue eyeshadow and John Denver haircuts, that we can really appreciate the wonder of God's transforming grace.

"He has made everything beautiful in its time."

Even a blog.
Especially a heart.

So, put it out there a little. Don't be afraid to blunder about, don't be afraid to look silly. We all do. It's a silly life. We're silly people. And anybody who says differently, well... we'll just wait for them to walk past a mirror and notice their own Arctic Blue eyeshadow for themselves.

Happy writings.

Posted by WonderGirl at 1:13 PM | Comments (2)

August 18, 2008

Sunday-Go-to-Meetin'

After church, before lunch,
before playclothes
and naps

After worship, before resting,
before sandbox
and bike laps

After His table, before ours
Dressed up, soon messed up

Another Sunday, before Monday,
Communed and 'fessed up

Smiling, and cheesing in beautiful sunlight
Life is pleasing, heart is squeezing
The Lord's day held tight.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:21 AM | Comments (6)

August 5, 2008

Nothing More Infuriating

than a disposable diaper that makes it's way through the wash cycle. GRRRR, I fume, when I see the bulbous globby mess with which Pamper's has bombed my laundry. It creates a gel from hell (at least it rhymes, though) that adheres to EVERYTHING. It's like the Greek Fire of Disgustingness. Once it has established residency in the machine, and on every single item of clothing inside... well... let's just say it completely justifies an 11 a.m. glass of wine.

Can I get an amen?

As an aside, I am looking into the G Diaper as an alternative to the disposable ones. I don't want to make the full-fledged leap to cloth diapers, (because I am a little bit eco-lazy) but this seems like a good compromise.

Okay, I'm off. Gotta go get in my hazmat gear to clean up the washer. Grr.

Posted by WonderGirl at 1:05 PM | Comments (7)

Home Sweet Home, Eventually.

So, work continues on the rental house in Monroe. This weekend, we pressure washed the garage and front porch, continued clearing out the shed and took a load of junk to the dump, and moved out the remaining furniture. It's nearly ready, and now the business of finding a renter and getting loose ends tied up has come. (Or so I've been saying for the past two months... it just keeps going on!!)

Here are a few exterior shots of the house, since a few people have asked about it.

Continue reading "Home Sweet Home, Eventually."

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:47 AM | Comments (3)

July 28, 2008

Case of the Missing Blogger

Oh, busy life. Busy, busy, busy. Life, life, life.

I've been trying to knock some things off my Summer To Do list before SCHOOL STARTS! Yikes! What in the WORLD happened to the summer?

So, I've been the missing blogger. My poor, neglected blog is a casualty of my now much more organized and productive life. Guess something's gotta give, huh? I'll be more talky as I mark more things off my list, so don't bail on me. Although, to be honest, I think everybody else is so busy with their own lives, they haven't missed me much. Which works out well. We're all too busy for the internet these days, right?

So, what have I been doing, you ask? (Because you're totally, geniunely interested, right?)

-sewing like a fiend lately, because I know those days are numbered. I've actually got a few Christmas gifts out of the way, if you'll believe it!)
-organized ALL our files and family papers (very ugly job, I assure you.)
-got caught up on about a month's worth of coupon clipping and filing. (oh how untorturous that sounds now. It was really quite agonizing.)
-made trips, visited family, enjoyed summerly things
-cleaning, painting, repairing a rental property that has recently come into our possession. (how cool is that?)
-potty training! That's almost three down, one more to go. Yeehaw!

Next to do, get all the school stuff sorted out, get the kids up to date on drs apts and scheduled things, finish work on the house, and find a renter!

So I'll be around, in between projects. In the meantime, perhaps you'd like to hang out at YouTube, or CollegeHumor. There's lots of good stuff there, like this little gem, The Font Conference, passed along by King Pen. It's hilarious. But do come back eventually, yeah? We'll have some coffee or something.

.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:08 PM | Comments (1)

July 22, 2008

Susceptible

As I'm going from one chore to another today, I had the following thought:

I wish I could just be on the internet in my head throughout the day. Like, be washing the dishes and browsing blogs in my brain.

Which, I deduct, makes me a prime candidate for an evil scientist somewhere who has a penchant for implanting mind-control chips in people's heads.

(But don't spread that around.)

Posted by WonderGirl at 4:39 PM | Comments (0)

July 13, 2008

The Backroads

I think I left without saying goodbye, didn't I? I've been in the great state of Mississippi for the last couple of days visiting kinfolk. I ate tomato sandwiches for lunch every day. Went fishing with a cane pole. Drank gallons upon gallons of sweet tea, sometimes sun tea. Swatted mosquitos and picked figs and watched westerns. Attempted (but failed) to camp out with my 3, 5, and 7 year old. Went through old photos and quilt pieces, lazed in the porch swing till midnight. Fell asleep listening to a symphony of crickets and frogs every night. Got sunkissed, overfed, much hugged, and a little bit spoiled.

It was exactly wonderful.

And now I'm back, bone-tired and happy to be in my own bed, but already missing those who've loved me longest.

Tomorrow, I'll get life all back to normal, and in a few weeks, I'll strow it all up again with another summer trip somewhere. Isn't that the best way to pass the season? I love the freedom of summertime.

Anyway, I know I've been a little abbreviated with my blogging lately, but don't give up on me. I've still got the heart for it, I promise. Always more to say than time to say it... but I'll catch us up this week, mkay?

Okay, I'm off. Sleep tight, moonlight. See you in the bright and early.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:28 PM | Comments (1)

June 9, 2008

Newer, Faster, and Sleeker

I sure wish I was describing myself, but uh, no. I'm referring to Movable Type 4.1, which the good folks at terrablogs just installed as their blogging software. It is one sweet ride, people! I'm loving it. Ah, that new blog smell! Today is the first day I've used it, and I feel like I'm cruising the blogosphere in style. Thanks, guys!! Terrablogs is really the best free blogging portal out there.

As for me- I won't say I'm old and un-sleek, but I am certainly slower today. We spent the weekend painting, and I can barely move now! It's a good kind of sore though, the kind you get after you know you've done a lot of hard work. (And while I'm on the subject, thanks to my mom and Aunt J for watching the kids so we could paint!) We are fixing up a house that King Pen had the great privilege to inherit from his grandfather. I don't say that offhand either, this is a HUGE deal to us. It is a wonderful blessing, and we are so grateful for his generosity. We'll be renting it out for a few years, until we are able to move back to Monroe and live there ourselves. We're headed back up there next weekend for Round Two of the Painting, and I'll try to remember to take some pictures as we work.

This house... well, it's an amazing thing to have happen to us. I don't think we'll ever get over the joy and appreciation that comes with a gift like this, not just the physical gift of brick and land from Papaw, but the provision and abundance that God has given. We can't do anything but thank Him for it, and pray that He will allow us to be used in other's lives the way Papaw was in our's.

*happy sigh* A house.

Well, I suppose I should get started on my verra busy week. Tonight, the grocery game. Tomorrow, King Pen's birthday celebration. And all during the week, packing for a minivacation at my folks house, and preparations for teaching four-year old VBS next week. And sewing a few slings- can't leave that out. Oh, and not to forget the weekend of painting ahead! Wow. I better get going. Looks like I'm booked solid for the next two weeks.

Have a good day, folks! I may post later tonight, as I have something on my mind sparked by Sunday's sermon.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:57 AM | Comments (0)

June 6, 2008

Happy Weekend!

(blatantly snagged from Tricia's blog)

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:06 PM | Comments (0)

June 5, 2008

Killing Me Softly

Three days.

Every twenty seconds, for the last three days, I get a little twitch in my knee. Oh, it doesn't hurt at all, not a bit. But I'm considering amputation anyway. How many twitches is that over a 72 hour period? My brain won't compute that at this hour. (I believe diminished mental capacity is related to slow, continual torture techniques.)

GRRR!

Oh, and since I'm registering complaints, I'd like to add that my man cold is nearly over. Now I'm at the Smoker's Hack phase. I fear for my lungs, they may start to think I am trying to cough them out at this rate! And honestly, I'm quite fond of my lungs. They're one of my best features, and I'd like them to stay put.

Okay, that's all. I'm going to go get my attitude adjustment coffee now!

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:37 AM | Comments (2)

June 4, 2008

Survival

I'm happy to report, I'm feeling better today! Thank goodness. I don't think I could have stood another day of being pitiful. It's just so... uninteresting. I will try not to overdo it today, but I'm glad to start putting life back together a bit.

Thank you, aunts, for the TLC.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:02 AM | Comments (0)

June 3, 2008

Eeyore-ish

I've worked my way to the phase of sickness where you think you're getting better, but then ten minutes later, you want to call your mom on the phone and whine and wallow and the world seems like an awful place to live and you just wish somebody would come put you to bed because you're cranky and everything you say seems to turn into a runon sentence but you really don't care because nobody is listening anyway.

So, yeah. I'm getting better.

Ha!

Posted by WonderGirl at 1:45 PM | Comments (2)

June 2, 2008

Call 999!

Feel like I've got a Man Cold today, folks. It's bad. I don't want to alarm you, but I may not pull through this one. If I don't make it... I want Amy to have all my coupons.

WAH.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:55 AM | Comments (5)

Because Bathtubs Aren't Cheap

Oh no. Any other mothers out there staying up till midnight playing for Webkinz cash? Ashley, what have you done to me??

Posted by WonderGirl at 1:12 AM | Comments (3)

May 30, 2008

Product Endorsements

Some of my favorite stuff lately.

The Colgate 360 Toothbrush literally knocked my tooth socks off. It's like a minty party in your mouth, and everybody's invited.

I wish I had a Bobbin Saver for everything in my house. I love cute, purple, rubber organized circles!

This toilet scrubber was made to love my toilet. They're soulmates, and I'll never separate them till death do they part.

And lastly, my foot is rocking this summer slip on by Sketchers! I'm not much of a shoe girl, but this one had me at hello.

So. Your turn. Tell me 'bout your stuff.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:44 AM | Comments (9)

May 28, 2008

No Animal Exploitation Today.

Hullo world! We had an extended Memorial Day vacation, just making it back last night. Tons of laundry to wash, stuff to put away, coupons to clip, groceries to buy, and calories to burn from nonstop binge-snacking. So I'll blog lata. Hope you are having a wunnerful hump day.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:20 AM | Comments (0)

May 23, 2008

Jungle Lovin'

Have I introduced you to Tory yet? He's the rambunctious box turtle the kids found about three weeks ago, and adopted as their pet. He's great. He's very animated for a turtle, not shy at all. He eats voraciously, gazes at you curiously, and seems to enjoy contact with kids. So, yeah. I hit the pet jackpot, 'cause he is LOW maintenance, people. King Pen built him a turtle run, a big enclosed habitat that he can totally mellow in. He's a happy boxie boy.

The only thing he was lacking was a little *ahem female companionship. Until today, that is, when HeroBoy exploded with discovery, "I FOUND ANOTHER TORY!!!!" I cannot express his sheer, unadulterated joy.

So we put "Tiger" in the turtle run, and she immediately went to town on some chopped bananas. The poor dear was starved to death. Good thing she got a bite before Tory noticed her, because as soon as he saw that gorgeous little turtle shell with it's marvelous stripes and fashionable spots... well. See for yourself.

"Mama! What is Tory doing?"

They're wrestling, sweetie.

"Wow, Tory looks really happy, Mama!"

Yes, he does.

"Oh Tory is so funny! He's trying to get a piggy-back ride! "

Er-

"Why won't Tory stop, Mama?"

Um-

"Whoa, why is he wiggling like that?"

Okie dokie then, time to go have a snack, kids!

As I dragged the kids away, I swear Tiger was giving me the stink eye.

PS. I'm not even sure they're the same species, by the way. Tory looks more like a Three-toed box turtle, while Tiger looks like an Eastern Box. I just hope Tory is confident that Tiger is a girl (cause I am NOT peeking under her shell).

Posted by WonderGirl at 3:28 PM | Comments (11)

May 21, 2008

Checking in, Mon.

Well, um... er... this is awkward.

I mean, I said I'd blog. And I'm not so sure what I've done lately qualifies. But, guys!!! (Okay, I'll minus that whiney tone.) It's a real dilemma when the kids are gone. I can either be majorly productive, sewing and cleaning and organizing and running all those kidfree errands that seem to pile up. Or, I could indulge in some grownup time- watching movies, getting my hair did, sleeping till noon, eating sushi in my slippers (not sushi INSIDE my slippers, sushi while WEARING my slippers. You just gotta be difficult, don't you?) Or, I could catch up on emails and blogging and what have you. OR, I could be reading the 3rd Outlander book, which just HAPPENED to come in the mail yesterday, and which just HAPPENS to be totally rocking.

See? It's tough. Nobody should be forced to make a decision like that.

In the end, I decided to do what I felt like in the moment, which is a little bit of everything. I've run some errands, folded some clothes, watched some movies. And while doing all those things, I've just enjoyed having Chipmunk all to myself for a few days. It's been a really wonderful two days.

I've got one more to go, and then I pick up the kids on Thursday. I have to thank my mother-in-law for providing this lovely break! I really appreciate it, and have made the most of it.

If I haven't quite blogged as much as I would have hoped, well, I'm just gonna cut myself some slack. Sometimes you gotta kick back, don't worry, and be happy. That's what I've done the last few days.

And it's been AWESOME.

Now, if you'll excuse me... the ice is melting in my piña colada the next load of laundry is ready in the dryer.

Y'all have a good day, hear?

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:35 AM | Comments (5)

May 20, 2008

Youknowwhat in the City

Get. A. Room. Already.

Honestly.

PS This doesn't count for the promised blogging, by the way. Just a random observation about moving back to the deep South.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:46 AM | Comments (2)

May 13, 2008

Important Looks

Okay, I have a confession to make. I -er- watch The Hills. I can't help it! I'm sorry! I know, it's an awful show where everybody looks the same and nothing ever happens. (As King Pen feels compelled to point out EVERY single time he catches me watching it!)

What I want to know, if you watch this i.q. dropping show as well, what is up with the pregnant pauses? Do these people really give that many significant looks, or is this creative editing? Honestly, they LOOK at each other for most of the show. It's maddening! Talk! Say something! Or, is this confirmation that what they DO say is so unintelligent that the producers are forced to cut out the actual conversations? That seems likely.

But the shoes, dangit! And the belts! And the huge sunglasses! I can't quit watching the shiny clothes!!

Alrightie. I need to go scrub my brain now.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:26 AM | Comments (6)

May 12, 2008

Dangerous

King Pen and I were talking last night about this movie, which I accidentally called, "No Country for Old Women".

Why does that make me burst out laughing? Cause old ladies don't cause trouble, people. At least, not in roving gangs. Unless you count the quiltin' fueds, which can get pretty vicious.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:40 AM | Comments (7)

After Midnight AGAIN.

Okay, this is me, going to bed. See? Seriously, this post is gonna be all of TWO SECONDS, I swear it.

Just wanted to remind you guys about the giveaway that starts today. I think a winner will be chosen on Thursday? Not sure. But, please, do get the word out! If you can mention it on your blog, I will owe you a coke. An icy, perfectly fizzy, absolutely delicious coca-cola. It'll be one of those amazing moments when you're totally parched, choking on the dust of a ball field, or sweating at the office picnic-- and surprise, surprise, I'll be there. Holding out the most beautiful, thirst-quenching beverage you've ever seen. All for telling your peeps to go try to win a cute babysling at Musings of a Housewife.

Okay, enough shameless self-promotion. I'm out, ya'll, before I keel over.

PS Happy Mother's Day, mamas!! Hope yours was as nice as mine.

Posted by WonderGirl at 1:39 AM | Comments (1)

April 30, 2008

It's Half Past I Should Be in Bed

Oh sakes. I've gone and stayed up late again! What's the dealio? I simply cannot manage to get myself into bed at a decent hour these days. And it's not like I suddenly need less sleep, oh no. The kids have had to PRY me out of bed to make them breakfast the last few days. And I'll admit, they've been less than stellar breakfasts. I can only feed my children Pop-tarts and Nutragrain bars so many days in a row. Seriously. Child services is gonna come knocking soon if I don't get some oatmeal and scrambled eggs and toast on the table soon! (You think I'm kidding, but they don't joke in Pineville. I could be in some big trouble if we don't eat a balanced breakfast, like FAST.)

Okay, I feel a little better. Confession is good for the soul. Tomorrow morning, my kids will have freshly squeezed oj, dadgummit. (Okay, maybe not freshly squeezed. But I promise it won't be orange kool-aid. No warrants out for my arrest. Yet.)

Fortunately, (especially for my kids who like to eat breakfast), I'm getting over the first craze of being in business. I'm working out the kinks, and hopefully will move it more to the background of my life. I don't want (nor can I allow) it to be the primary function of my day. It is gratifying work, though. I know this sounds crazy, but when I sew a hem, and iron it-- when I look at the construction, knowing that I have rendered this thing with my own labor, and that my efforts will be enjoyed by someone else and bring profit to my family... oh the satisfaction! It is a big boost in my day. But, I don't want to neglect the other areas of my life, so I have to consciously set it aside and tend to other things. I'm still sorta learning how to do that, how to balance it all.

I read a really good post over at Femina the other day about creating things. It was a timely read for me in relationship to my recent endeavours. Here's a lovely paragraph from Nancy, who is talking about why we are drawn to craft objects:

"My theory is that God puts wisdom in our hearts and it comes out our hands. And when it does, we make stuff! And not only does this stuff glorify God when it is offered to Him, it gives us a soul satisfaction that is healthy and invigorating. We are imitating our Creator when we make things, and that image of God which is stamped on our soul shines a little brighter."

I love that.

I love that it's okay to indulge in making things beautiful, and making beautiful things. Not only is it okay, I believe it is a sign of something healthy and good happening inside us. I think it might be very hard to create beautiful things when your soul hurts. I know I feel unispired and uninterested in those things when I am in a dark place. Or, at least, the things born of those darker days are dark in themselves, and are weighted down in some way.

I think for the crafty person, if you look at what your hands have produced, it might give a measure of the state of your heart. Of course, I don't mean that your level of talent or particular taste equals a good spiritual condition. ('Cause that would be stoopid.) And I'm certainly not saying if you don't bake or sew or scrapbook that you're in questionable territory. It's more about what activities your hands are engaged in. What good have they wrought lately, in whatever form? Is the product of your labor a beautiful thing, whatever that may be? For me, I know that the best writing, cooking, sewing, whatever, comes when I am spiritually nourished. I think there is a definite connection there. What we harbor inside us will bear fruit whether we want it to or not. So, maybe looking over that fruit isn't such a bad idea, ya know?

Well, I didn't mean to go off on that quite so much, but I guess that's what happens when you're sleep deprived and in denial! I must hie myself to bed. I have to get up early to go milk the cows and feed the chickens.

Sweet dreams, butter beans. See you in the bright and early.

Posted by WonderGirl at 1:15 AM | Comments (1)

April 25, 2008

The Christian Smell

So, in an effort to further my edumacation, I am reading Henry Fielding's novel, The History of Tom Jones: A Foundling. It's one of the first pieces of literature to fall into the "novel" category, written in 1749. I think our library had the original, judging from the musty smell and amounts of clear tape holding it together. (oh, be nice, WonderGirl!)

Anyhoo, I LOVE it. Granted, it's one of those books you have to work over a little bit. The language is familiar, but the arrangement of words and sentences is distinctly different from current fiction. I think nowadays we value efficient prose, we're very direct, cutting away the excess in our communication. But not Fielding. He is a generous writer. (Maybe there were no editors back then?) It is a hearty fare, and I am unaccustomed to such a rich meal. It's no quick swallow!

But OH, it's worth it! It is so satisfying! And FUNNY! I have laughed out loud several times so far, and I'm only a few chapters in. I have heard Tom Jones described as a bawdy, comic adventure, but I figure, it can't be all that naughty since it was written in an age of decorum- high, stiff laced collars and tight powdered wigs. People had to behave back then or "off with their head!", right? I confess though, that the varied covers for this book show old Tom chasing the ladies with great fervor. We'll see. I sure hope I haven't accidentally gone into the back room of the library! (Maybe the beaded curtain should have sent up a red flag or two.)

My favorite passage so far comes from the (overly) pious housekeeper, upon learning about an abandoned infant in her master's home. She's been going on (and on, and on!) about strumpets and wickedness and generally expressing her contempt for the orphaned infant.

"It goes against me to touch these misbegotten wretches, whom I don't look upon as my fellow creatures. Faugh, how it stinks! It doth not smell like a Christian!"

Haha!

Fielding has a talent for using dialogue to let you know as much as you need to about a character. He is also good at sneaking in a really profound thought in the midst of an outrageous and hilarious situation! Ya gotta love that.

Anyway, I'm reading in spurts, no more than 30 minutes at a time, or my attention drops. I have to take small bites, so that I can savor and digest it completelly. Which works for the current state of my life, as I have no more than half an hour to commit to any singular activity! Including blogging, so I must bid you adieu for now.

Have a good weekend, everybody!

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:04 PM | Comments (0)

April 23, 2008

It Smells Grassy

I love the smell of cut grass. It makes me hungry for nature. As in, I'd like to take an actual bite. But I don't. Because I value the freedom and movement afforded to people who are assumed to be sane. Maybe I could cloak it under Green Week, though, and everybody would think I'm just super eco-friendly.

Okay, let me chase a tangent here. Why am I so annoyed with Green Week? It's not like I don't love the earth. I do. I want to take care of it, be a good steward of it. But I am SO SICK of celebs tooting their green little horns. And companies using it as a marketing tool! If I hear one more word about how I should buy Sun Chips from Wal-Mart so I can help light up a trillion houses for one hour, things are gonna get ugly. Quit telling me to consume, and dangling the bait of self congratulations to get me to do it! It's blackmail! Here, do this, so you can assuage your guilt for killing the earth, you terrestrial scourge. And if you don't buy such and such Organic Product, you are apathetic and irresponsible, and you are the reason our children have no future. Or at least, according to the major t.v. networks, who seem to be the driving forces behind Living A Green Life. Why, if I didn't have cable, I'd never think to care about the planet! Thank goodness for the media!

Don't get me wrong. I really, truly, think we should reduce, reuse, and recycle. If I learned nothing from Bob the Builder, it was that. But there is something about the presentation lately that is rubbing me the wrong way. I just wanna say, quit hassling me already! Guilt trips, and those who profit from them, really hack me off.

*ahem

Well. Sorry 'bout that. Didn't mean to get so worked up.

I'm feeling a wild hair today. Maybe it's the liberation of shorts and flipflops? I dunno.

Well, the crew is calling for lunch, so I better skeedaddle. We're having recycled dinner. (I used to call that "leftovers", btw. But that's not green enough anymore.)

(oh, I sound bitter today, don't I? I'm really not, though.)

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:40 PM | Comments (5)

April 22, 2008

Yupdates

Because I know you like to be in the know.

Homeschooling: Still chugging along. I have been using A Beka, 2nd grade for Czarina, and PreK for HeroBoy. But, I'm bored. The math format is not great. I get what they're trying to do- make it interesting by covering several different topics on one worksheet- measuring, time-telling, money, etc. But it ends up being too scattered. I'd rather take one point, teach it well and make sure she really gets it, then move on! So, I've ditched the math curriculum for the time being, and I am working from a standardized 2nd grade math test. Using that as my guideline, I'm systematically going through each part, making sure she knows how to do it all. I won't let her forget what she's already learned, but I think this "unit study" method is working better. Since she's ahead on reading, we're moving on to grammar, learning about nouns and such. It just makes more sense this way. HeroBoy is still in the game, but well, his heads not in it. He's in the outfield, looking at bugs and clouds. I think next year, he'll be more into it, so I'm not stressing too much.

BohoBaby: I'm trying y'all, I really am. But it just cannot retain it's priority status for very long these days! I want it to! But something always pushes it down the list. Kids getting sick, a holiday, etc. There's pretty much nothing specific holding me back, but just life in general. So I've just got to figure out how to get it back on track.

Grocery Game: I'm saving tons. My average weekly spending is $75, which is half of what I was spending preGG. Besides spending less, I also HAVE MORE! That just blows my mind. I have a wonderful stockpile of stuff. I like to just open the cupboard and stare sometimes. Besides our improved financial and pantry state, it's also mentally satisfying. I am thrilled by my wily coupon wielding. It's like working a jigsaw puzzle, or solving a math problem. (which, I realize may not sound fun to anybody but me.) And I've learned a lot about how much things should cost, which is important, too. And have I mentioned my filing system? Oh, it's gorgeous. I have a 3 ring binder, with main categories and subcategories, and pages and pages of coupons in clear plastic photo pages. It's a work of art. It's alphabetical, and brand specific. It makes it really easy to find and file any coupon. I wuv it, and I'm gonna marry it.

Church: We've missed several Sundays now because of sickness or traveling, so this is slow-going, also. We've been hitting the Episcopal church a good bit, but I'm not settled yet. I keep hoping a good Presbyterian CREC church is just gonna fall out of the sky on our heads, but that's not likely, eh? Wah. We really need to get this part of our life sorted out, because things still feel off-kilter, like we're living among boxes. There's no permanence yet to living here, and I NEED SOME FRIENDS!!! It's sad that I look forward to smalltalk with the Walgreens cashier each week, because SHE'S THE ONLY WOMAN I SPEND ANY TIME WITH. Sorry, didn't meant to yell. I'm just lonesome.

Okay, that's a brief rundown of things behind the scenes of the Sift. I know, fascinating! You didn't know my life was that spectacularly exciting, did you? You should try living it. It's almost too much!

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:45 AM | Comments (8)

April 21, 2008

Matters of Meat

Okay, I'm trying to love this veggie soup I'm eating for lunch, but it is NOT HAPPENING. It's gross! Blech! Maybe that's the key to weight loss. If it's gross, you'll eat only enough to stave off the hunger pains. Not that I'm trying to lose weight, exactly. Just avoiding the burgers and fries in anticipation of Ye Old Swimsuit Season. Blasted bikinis.

Speaking of eating and all that, I've been tossing around the idea of another experiment. Remember the No Shampoo thing? Good times. (I am washing my hair now, by the way.) Anyway, I'm thinking of a Meatless Month. Not because I have a moral dilemna about eating animals, no sirree. I'm a card-carrying carnivore, and I won't apologize for it. I'm just curious, really, about how living vegetarian would affect my mental and physical state. (And, yeah, blog material. I won't lie.) Maybe I would like veggie soup more by the end, too.

Calm down, King Pen. Put the divorce papers away. You still get your cows and pigs and chickens. I won't subject my family to a life without meat. (Which may be a contributing factor to the strained mental challenge. Cooking, but not eating? Yikes!)

Anyway, this idea scares me more than the no shampoo thing. It would be a REAL test of willpower to get through! I lika da meata.

Would I not get animal products, either? I don't know if I could go a month without cheese. That's just inhumane.

Okay, I'm gonna think on this one. Anybody want to do it with me? You know what they say... misery loves company.

Posted by WonderGirl at 1:29 PM

Morning!

Well, I'm up, gulping down the coffee, ready for a brand new, sick-free, fantabulous week! (As a warning, I've gulped down A LOT of coffee, and I may have issues with exclamation points in the post. I'll try to restrain myself.)

I have SO MUCH to do. The house, well, I can't even bring myself to go into detail. I'll just say, it may be less work to just move at this point! I think we may have a 5th child hidden somewhere under the mountains of laundry. And, the legos... oh my. They're multiplying faster than bunnies, and I suspect they have been strategically placed for my bare foot.

But it's not just the house, oh no. We missed a week of school, too. Gruh!

And I really wanted BohoBaby to be up today, but I don't see how I can get to it with all this other stuff!

However, this is not a freak out post. I've got my egg timer, and my plan is to go from room to room for fifteen minutes until I just drop dead. And then I'll do it again tomorrow, and hopefully, I'll have put a decent dent in this thing. THEN, I can concentrate on the extra curriculars.

I did get to go running yesterday afternoon. It was great! Haven't been in ages, and it was lovely. So if I get all my WORK done this week, then I can PLAY a little, too. WonderGirl needs to play. I could run again, sew a bit, work on a story, and start reading Tom Jones. Hey, crazier things have happened!

Whatever happens though, it's got to be better than last week, so I am pumped! (and caffeinated, but never you mind)

Okay, I guess this stuff won't do itself, so I'm off. Have a happy morning, folks!

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:16 AM

April 17, 2008

I'm Not Complaining

much.

But last night marks a full week that we've been dealing with this sickness, and it's wearing us. The Duke woke up about midnight and his tylenol had worn off, and his fever was over 103. He was pitiful. The fever accompanying this bug is a TOUGH one. It immediately comes back in between doses, and it just ravages their little bodies. I am hoping today will be a turning point for the Duke, though. Czarina and HeroBoy have the lingering cough and congestion that seems to follow, but they are recovering. Yesterday was their first completely fever-free day. They even got to play outside for an hour, and they aren't so peakish looking anymore. Still a little weak, they get tired easily, but I can tell they're recovering.

So far Chipmunk isn't displaying any signs of it. If he doesn't get it, I'm going to be (happily, joyfully, thankfully) surprised. But before everybody got sick, we were our usual kissy-huggy-germ-sharing selves. So we'll see. I'm praying that he doesn't get it. My heart breaks when the babies get sick like that.

In other news, HeroBoy fell out of his chair this morning, and busted his chin wide open. -sigh- It's pretty bad, but I steri-stripped it, and figured that's probably all they'd do at the ER. Maybe they'd put two or three stitches in, but I think what I did will suffice. He's a boy, it's under his chin and hidden from view, and I can't bear to look at the inside of the ER twice in one week! So, Dr. Mom to the rescue. I always second guess myself later, though... I do hope it'll be okay.

Anyway, that's what's up around here. In between tending sick folks, I did manage to catch up on laundry. The rest of the house is a wreck, though. It's driving me crazy! I absolutely MUST mop my kitchen and dining room floors today, or I will perish. And I'm not being dramatic here, people. I simply cannot coexist with such sticky floors. One of us has to go. So, I'm gonna go get on that, because I love my family and want to stay in this dimension a little longer. I leave you all to keep the internet going while I'm absent. I miss you guys! I am coming back, once we get everybody well, so save my seat. Seriously. Put your jacket there or something so nobody takes it.

Mkay.

Have a good one, everybody!

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:36 AM

April 15, 2008

Prognosis: Survival

I dragged the kids to the doctor yesterday, and five hours and six prescriptions later, I think we'll live. The vile stomach virus had morphed into ear, sinus, and throat infections, believe it or not.

Everybody is happier today, me included. Now, if we can keep Chipmunk well, I'll be over the moon!

I have too much to do to blog today, but maybe I'll be caught up tomorrow. Just wanted to give an update!

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:00 AM

April 14, 2008

Round 2

Czarina and HeroBoy slowly (!!) recovering, but the Duke seems to be coming down with it now. Yar.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:25 AM

April 13, 2008

Ah, Saturday Night ER

I think eight hours in the ER on a Saturday night is quite possibly more effective than a good old Baptist revival. Nothing like a little taste of hell to make a sinner repent! I won't regale you with tales from the ER, because I do not want to relive that horror again. I will tell you that I was honestly praying, dear Jesus, let them call our name next, please, oh please oh please oh please-- for literally, HOURS.

But, I'm glad we went, though it galls me to say it. We had been unable to get Czarina's fever down, and she was starting to get dizzy and extremely lethargic. I was worried that she was dehydrated, and I was right. So, IV fluids, some tests, a round of antibiotics, and we eventually got home some time after 4 a.m. I woke up at noon. I am happy to discover there is no permanent damage done to my mental state.

Czarina is much better today, as is HeroBoy. So far, they're the only ones who've come down with it, so here's hoping it'll stay that way!

Okay, I'm off to enjoy the day of rest. Later, gators.

Posted by WonderGirl at 3:44 PM

April 9, 2008

Not So Outlandish

('scuse the pun. It's an involuntary reflex.)

I finished Outlander last night, with (surprisingly) minimal neglect of my normal life. I made a deal with myself, that if I was going to read it, I had to at least continue feeding my children. They're good kids, they deserve it. This book has a bad reputation for causing everything else to become totally irrelevent. However, everybody ate. (I'm not saying WHAT they ate, or whether dishes got washed.)

It was really, really good.

It was one of those books that you keep thinking about after you're done, remembering passages, wishing you hadn't read it so you could read it all over again. It was well written, the plot was engaging, and the characters genuine and believable. It's very similar to a story I thought about writing (and actually finished a few chapters on), but I'm embarrassed I even thought to do it after reading her skillful execution of it. She is a master storyteller.

I mentioned there was a fair bit of *ahem, but I'd like to clarify that it was tastefully done, and within the confines of marriage. I'm going to expound on that a bit, kids, so, 18+ from here on out.

Continue reading "Not So Outlandish"

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:08 AM

April 8, 2008

Killing Time

So, I have a few minutes, before the world realizes it. The kids are playing outside, the kitchen floor is drying, and Chipmunk is snoozing. A rare, unfilled pocket in the day!

*twiddling thumbs

I, uh.

Wow.

I don't even know what to do with that, anymore! I could, of course, be sewing. My self-imposed sabbatical has gone on long enough, probably. I was stressing about BohoBaby, so I took a break. I want it to be fun, and it wasn't. But I think I'm ready to jump back in. People are starting to inquire, and everything else in my life seems to be balanced again, so it seems like a good time.

Or...

I could do a few of the other extras on my To Do list. Like picking up pine cones and sticks so King Pen can mow the grass. Wouldn't that be nice of me? He wouldn't even expect it. (Unless, of course, he reads this, or you tell him, you big blabbermouth.)

Or...

I could write that letter to Amy V. I've been meaning to, so I could mail the package she's been waiting on for literally MONTHS.

Or...

I could burn my jogging mix to my mp3 player so I can be ready for a quick one this afternoon.

Or...

I could get a jumpstart on supper.

Or...

Read another chapter in The Outlanders, which is just as good as everybody says, except I'll add that there seems to be a lot of *ahem* jostling about in in the bushes, if you ken what I'm saying. (I'm not saying whether that moves it up or down on the list. Haha)

So, you see, there are lots of possibilities. Maybe I should create a poll, and let you decide. Reader interraction and all that. I'll put that on the list, "Make a poll."

-sigh-

Okay, I'm out, before the world remembers I'm over here, doing nothing. Tune in tomorrow for the exciting conclusion of "Killing Time". I'm sure you'll be sitting on the edge of your seat till then.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:45 AM

April 4, 2008

Slow Go

Okay, I'm drawing a TOTAL blank today for blogging. I have stared at this blank place for ten minutes and have nothing to show for it. Aw. Guess I should move on, and hope something dawns on me later to write about.

No, I'm not pouting.

Well, maybe a little.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:20 AM

April 3, 2008

Hup

Good morning, crew. How is every little thing today? Making it?

I'm in a bit of shock that it's Thursday. How did that happen? Week's almost over!

Here are a few random highlights from my week:

- I spent $50 on groceries Monday. (rather than my pre-GG $150!!)

- The Duke is potty training! This is sad, but he's loving that "extra" time spent with me. Poor guy- he does get overlooked more than the others. I just hate that our quality time comes on the toilet.

-The Chipmunk is having a hellacious bout of separation anxiety. I mean, purely awful. I can barely look in a different direction without him having a complete meltdown. What gives?

-Midweek, I came down with a near obsessive urge to rid myself of the ghastly, fleshy pink color of my bedroom. Like, if I don't paint over it soon, I'm going to start scraping it off with my fingernails. It's just that bad.

-Somebody (maybe, say, my evil sister-in-law, Amy) has introduced me to the Scramble application on Facebook. It's like Boggle, which as some of you know, is my achilles heel. I stayed up until 1:30 IN THE MORNING playing this game. I couldn't even think to make words, but I couldn't QUIT!

-I swept the dining room floor yesterday no less than 15 times. I kid you not. I'd sweep up the crumbs, and before I even emptied out the dustpan, there were more. I suspect gremlins.

Okay, well, I've got to get started on my day. I'll pop on later, gators!

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:40 AM

April 1, 2008

Oh Sweet Latex

I would just like to say, THANK THE STARS for rubber cleaning gloves. Seriously. I don't want to think of a life before that miraculous invention.

Posted by WonderGirl at 8:46 AM

March 31, 2008

Oh Ye Domestic Generals

Is the Swiffer a soldier I should welcome into my Cleaning Army? I can't decide. It seems a bit... indulgent of me. Is it really all that?

I do have a coupon. (sigh)

Posted by WonderGirl at 3:09 PM

And We're Baaaack!

Okay, am I the only one still making SNL references? I should probably quit that.

But I am back!

Apparently, I got a little carried away with my spring break vacation. We just got back in last night, after making the rounds to see family. It was great. I have lots of pictures that will take me forever to upload and edit and all that, but I'll get to it eventually. (That's my new mottto-- "I'll get to it eventually." Surprisingly liberating! ha) It was a long visit, and I was so happy to crawl into my own bed last night. S'good to be home. Now, the unpacking and reorganizing begins. (YIKES)

So, still a little to do before I can write a long entry here. I've been feeling a smidge guilty about neglecting my blog over the last two weeks, but it couldn't be helped! Are we cool? You're not mad at me are you? I promise, we'll hang out more this week. I've got lots of good blog-related stuff brewing in my head, mkay? You still matter. We've got a bond that will never- blah, blah, blah. BFF and all that.

I make the joke. You really DO matter. We're gonna get this relationship back on track, don't you worry. And I know just how to do it.

I'll make the fish face, and you can do the puffed out cheeks. It'll be awesome.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:47 AM

March 17, 2008

Closed For Cleaning

Taking a few days off, my peeps. I need to do some Spring cleaning and whatnot this week. Closets, here I come!

I'll be back, though, so don't wander off too far. I'd hate to have to hunt you down and drag you back here. (Like last time.)

Be good!*

*I always feel like I need to say this when I leave you all unattended, oh mischievous readers. No telling what shenanigans you're up to in my absence.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:11 PM

March 12, 2008

Whensday

Hullo my little dumplings!

(Oh, come on. You know you like to be called that sometimes.)

So what's on the agenda today? Any special plans this fine Wednesday? I can't believe it's the middle of the week already. The days just FLY by lately! We're still majorly off-kilter with the time change on Sunday, just can't seem to get on schedule! It's driving me crazy.

I finished The Sunne in Splendor, all 900+ pages, and it was fantastic. I was SO relieved to be done with it, though. Medieval phrases were starting to work their way into my daily conversation. I almost wished King Pen "Godspeed" when he left on an errand the other day. And I'll admit I told Chipmunk, "You be stinky, lad. Let Ma Mere change you!" (I figured I could try some 15th century colliquol phrases with him, since he speaks little English as it is.) I was eating, breathing, speaking, and wearing, Richard III. It was good though- I highly recommend Sharon Kay Penman. She's an excellent historian/writer. I simply cannot fathom what it took to write this book. It blows my mind.

Okay, well, I realize this isn't much of a post, but I really need to go get some things done. (Things sorely neglected since I picked up that durn book!) I'll write later.

Dumplings.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:47 AM

March 10, 2008

No Monday Mojo

Okay guys. I've tried, I really have, but I got NOTHING today. Zip. Zilch. I'm dry as a bone.

I blame it on an obsessive reading of The Sunne in Splendor. I tell ya, this book may kill me. It's good, but it's a tough read. One of those that takes a serious commitment to finish. I'm on page 643. Tiniest print, thinnest paper of all time. 300 some odd pages to go, and I know more about the War of Roses than I really care to.

Anyway, it's distracting me from my WHOLE LIFE. I haven't even brushed my teeth yet.

That's terrible.

And, there is an embarassingly HUGE pile of laundry that I am trying not to make eye contact with. I have GOT to get in there and do it, y'all. I really do. HeroBoy walked around for half an hour today with NO UNDERWEAR on because he's out of clean clothes.

Shameful.

Okay, nuff talking. I need to get busy before social services shows up. I'm going to climb Mt. Laundry. And then I'm going to brush my teeth.

I can do those one-handed, right?

Posted by WonderGirl at 1:43 PM

March 8, 2008

Time Change

My mother-in-law is the BEST for reminding me about this twice a year. I swear, without that, we'd be early or late for church every single Sunday following a time-change. I just never remember!! It refuses to stick in my brain.

So, in honor of her today, let me pass on the reminder...

Set your clocks forward an hour tonight!

Posted by WonderGirl at 6:07 PM

February 29, 2008

Missy Miscellaneous

Oh, sweet Friday. I could kiss you. (If you had lips, weren't a day of the week, and I was that kind of girl.)

So how's everybody this morning? Making it okay? Are you as glad for the wekeend as I am? This has been one busy week for me- not bad, just FULL. I'm loving that tomorrow is Saturday, and I have nothing on the agenda. Just an easy, at-home kind of day. It might even be a do-nut morning. Oh yeah!

I've got the urge to ramble. I'm gonna go with that for a minute.

I got my sewing machine back this week, hallelujah! It's working great. I've sewn a few more slings. I've slowly and steadily built up my stock, and I'm chomping at the bits to get my store up and running! It's nearly ready- just have to put the finishing touches on the brochure and get my business cards. There are actually some other 'behind-the-scenes' kind of details to finish up, too, but I'm getting to them. It takes me about three times as long to do things around here, because I'm chasing after four kids, homeschooling two, and just maintaining the household. That's a lot. It's a challenge for me to be patient with the time frame on things, because I'm a bit impulsive. When I want to do something, I want to do it RIGHT NOW, and that just doesn't work all the time.

That isn't always a bad thing though. Sometimes, if a little time passes, what seemed like a very good idea at the moment, doesn't later. So I avoid the pitfalls of being impulsive on occasion. This has saved me from many a tragic haircut in recent years.

Okay, rambling on...

Lost last night-- anyone? Wasn't it fantastic? I finally feel like a few questions were answered! And did you catch the shadow of a city at the very end, on the Lost island logo? Have I been missing that all along or something? I hadn't noticed it before, but there were some very distinct shapes there, that made it look like some ancient civilization. Atlantis? I'll have to go check out Lostpedia on this one. Anyway, very satisfying episode.

Well, that's enough rambling for the moment. I can only stay in my pjs so long, and leftover minipecan pies are calling my name. Hope you have a lovely weekend, and I'll post later if I'm not too busy taking it easy!

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:17 AM

February 28, 2008

The Coupon Train

Whooo, whooo!!

(Okay, I've officially met my corny quota for the day.)

So here's the deal. You know how I've been doing the Grocery Game. Part of the fun is the coupons. Finding them, clipping them, and of course, using them! And since I have some obsessive tendencies, I have of course, gone a bit overboard. I have decided to start a coupon train. This is how it works. We'll start with 50 coupons. I put them in an envelope, and mail them to you. You take out the ones you want, add your own coupons that you don't want, and mail it to the next person on the list. It generally works best with about 50 coupons moving along, and no more than ten people riding each train. We can start multiples if there are lots of people interested.

So whatcha say? Anybody interested? You don't have to be playing the Grocery Game to get in on this.

Come on, free coupons- and a letter addressed to you in the mailbox that's NOT requesting money? You can't beat that. Leave a comment if you're interested, and I'll get us organized.

And, yes.

We must all wear conductor's hats.

Sorry, just the rules.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:35 AM

February 21, 2008

Little Bit of This

I'm over my temper tantrum from yesterday, thank you. It's amazing what a bottle of PineSol will do! No, I didn't drink it. Or sniff it. I just used it to mop with, and I tell ya, it has miraculous rejuvenating properties. I don't know why, but I can't possibly be in a bad mood when I'm mopping with PineSol.

Weird. Maybe I am sniffing it.

My days seem strange lately without my sewing machine. (How obsessed does that sound?) It's being serviced, and I just have to wait patiently for it to come out of the shop. I have actually found myself at a few points during the day, with a few minutes of wondering... well, now what? I don't have anything to do! I didn't realize that I am literally every second of the day, DOING SOMETHING!! I am not complaining, I actually really love it. My only complaint is that there isn't MORE time in the day, because I'm still not doing even half the things I'd like to do! Do you find that to be true? It's not that life is so stressful that I can't juggle it all, it's that I have a hard time prioritizing my 'extra curricular' activities. I think this is a result of the joy I feel in my life right now. There is an abundance of creativity in my spirit right now, and deciding how to distribute it into my life is one of the most fun problems I've ever had! So much life, so little time!

I'm going to write on that soon... about joy, about where it comes from and how to nurture it, because I think it's elemental for a Christian, especially women. And it doesn't just happen by itself.

Anyway, that's another post.

For now, I need to stop eating raisenettes and get out of my pajamas. Hope you all have a wonderful day!

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:52 AM

February 20, 2008

Hotmail Can Kiss My Grits

Anybody else as sick of their MSN account as I am? It's so unreliable! Half the time I can't sign in, or it times out, or some other craziness. I have a yahoo account for this blog stuff, and a gmail account out there somewhere, and my bohobabyslings address for business mail. But I can't let go of the hotmail address. -sigh- I used it for all my genealogy research over the years, and it still generates a response from old message boards and whatnot. So I can't close it.

But oooooh, if I could. I'd dump it right this instant!

Mkay. Composing myself.

Moving on.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:56 AM

February 18, 2008

Listenin' But Not Feelin' the Blues

So, there are a million and one things to do this Monday morning, but for a moment, I'm just sitting. Watching the golden finches at the feeder through the window, smelling my new rasberry candle, and listening to the smooth lope of Rosco Gordon's blues. Indulging the senses for just a few before this week kicks into high gear. All I need is a big, juicy glass of red wine to top it off. Come on, 5 o'clock!

We spent the weekend in Monroe with King Pen's folks, though I drove over to Vicksburg for my sister-in-law's baby shower Saturday. Sunday, we had an early 5th birthday party for HeroBoy (WAH!!) and got back last night. It was a busy, but fun weekend. I have pics, and will post them shortly.

This week, sewing, finishing BohoBaby business stuff, baking some Thank You bread for our neighbors (who have been so exceptional lately), a haircut tomorrow (whoohoo!), and the Grocery Game, of course. Lots to do, but really, nothing that's not Life.

I like Life.

I'm happy. I'M HAPPY. I'm glad to be able to write that.

Right this minute, before the top of the sippy cup comes off, and a diaper leaks, and the dryer breaks, and a matchbox car gets flushed down the toilet, Life is Exactly Perfect.

There's nothing like fifteen seconds of perfection to make the world seem bright.

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:21 PM

February 11, 2008

Overload

Oh, people. There is a very real possibility my head is going to explode if I try to cram anything else in there. At the very least, my eyes are going to pop out. (Ew.)

I need to upgrade to WonderGirl 2.0.

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:09 AM

Overload

Oh, people. There is a very real possibility my head is going to explode if I try to cram anything else in.

I need to upgrade to WonderGirl 2.0.

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:09 AM

February 8, 2008

It's Still Hamma Time

I wanna know... how you break it down when "Can't Touch This" comes on, and nobody's around.

'Cause you know you do, too.

Posted by WonderGirl at 6:07 PM

February 6, 2008

Adult Content

(but it won't get you fired)

Continue reading "Adult Content"

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:31 AM

February 3, 2008

This and That

Urgh.

Man, I am so behind on stuff. I feel like a chicken with it's head cut off these days! I have so many little details of things swimming around in my head- or not, I guess, if I'm the chicken with no head.

See? I'm mixing metaphors. You know it's bad when that happens. This may be an indication of permanent drain bamage. (ha)

BohoBaby is coming along, slow and steady. I set up my light studio for taking pictures of each sling. That was pretty fun. I have never been all that interested in photography, but I can see the allure. As an aside, for those of you with photography as a hobby- do you find yourself with a mild urge to wear a beret as your working? Just wondering if that's normal at all.

Anyway.

It was fun. I have A LOT to learn about that, and really, only a limited amount of time, and cranial space, for extra stuff. So, in with photography, and out with.. um... physics. Haven't used it in ages anyway. Just taking up space. As a matter of fact, calculus can go, too.

-subject change-

We rented "Stardust" last night- I've been wanting to see it for ages. I finally recovered enough from my husband's "Lord of the Rings" taunting to risk renting another fantasy-themed movie. And, I will confide in you, dear reader, that even King Pen liked this movie. He may not speak to me after that revelation, but it's true. My man liked this movie. I know because he only made two snide, MST3K-like remarks. If you have ever watched a movie with King Pen, then you know, this is progress. As Dolly mentioned the other day on her blog, it had a "Princess Bride" flavor to it. (And it's common knowledge that you can't be a decent human being and not like PB. It's simply mandatory.) So, go and rent, and be prepared to wish you were Claire Daines again just a little bit. (She's so loverly.)

Grocery Game update-- got my first Sunday paper to clip coupons out of, and I realize, two things. Number one, this is yet another thing for me to obsess over. Yay. But, I could save gobs, so there ya have it. At least it's a productive obsession. And number two, I like to cut things. I really do. Is that weird? The thinner the paper, the better... and the fact that I have a preference is a bit worrisome. Anywho, I'll go shopping tomorrow, so I'll letcha know how it goes.

And lastly, here are a few pics I took, playing around with lighting and whatnot. I shamelessly stole the picture frame idea from Dolly (whom I seem to be stalking these days, apparently). I'm doing the whole family, and if Dolly doesn't like it, she can just... uh... send me an email. Cause I'm stealing it, and that's that. I ain't a'skerred of her. I could take her.

(Sorry, Dolly. This is a direct result of the limited neuro-processing thing I was talking about earlier.)

(By the way, Czarina BEGGED me to straighten her hair, so don't panic, Mom. The curls are still there. My little comedian dramatically wailed after I had finished, "Oh no!! My curls are gone! That's where I get all my ideas-- now I can't think of a single thing!" I don't know where she comes up with that stuff.)

Oh, and here's a picture of a sling I took in my "studio".

Fancy, huh?

Posted by WonderGirl at 7:00 PM

February 1, 2008

Status

King Pen: recovered, returned to work today, a little draggy but fever-free.

Chipmunk: fever, a little grumpy, but otherwise okay.

WonderGirl: headache. Paranoid.

HeroBoy, Czarina, and the Duke: well and ready for fun.

And now for the inanimate:
Laundry: sky high.
Dishes: clean, waiting to be put away.
Beds: unmade.
Slings: few more done.
Diapers: changed.
Breakfast: eaten.
TV: off.
Coffee: gulped.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:06 AM

January 30, 2008

No Life?

Hey, technically, I posted FIVE times today.
That's scary.

Well, six now.
-sigh-

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:28 PM

Random FYI

Although I do not like to be subject to them, I am vastly amused by the word(s) "hissy fit".

It brings such delightful visualization to a story. (As long as I am not IN the story.)

Posted by WonderGirl at 1:12 PM

Yipes.

King Pen has the flu.

This is very not good, as I have been known, on occasion, to kiss this man.

Plus, poor King Pen! He is feeling like death warmed over right now.

Now, I'm off to gargle with rubbing alcohol. Don't take it personally, Hon.

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:45 PM

And Now, A Penguin In Shoes

Because he wasn't cute enough before.

He had to wear those, or his ittle bitty tootsies got sore. Seriously. He should be all better by now, though. Shame. Because I think all penguins should wear shoes.

I also think I might need to go to bed now.

Yup.

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:15 AM

January 29, 2008

The Dark Side

Czarina at lunch today, telling me the fun game she and HeroBoy had been playing:

Her: So we had the pony, and we put her on the bed, and then we pretended that we ate Santa's magic, and we--

Me: Wait. You pretended that you ATE Santa's magic?

Her: Yeah! So we could fly and-

Me: Hold on. You stole Santa's magic, by consuming it?

Her: Uh-huh. So we could go in and out of chimneys and-

I didn't even hear the rest. All I could think of was how disappointed Gandalf, Dumbledore, Obi-Wan, and my dad would be to know I've spawned a child of dark magic.

I'll hide it as long as I can.

Posted by WonderGirl at 2:51 PM

January 28, 2008

Library SOS

You know us. We move to a new town, and we may not have a home phone connected yet, but we can't get library cards fast enough. We are a family that needs a free, steady, incoming flow of books and movies and music at all times.

So, we checked out our local branch here in Pineville, and it was S A D.

Inhospitable, even.

Walking in, there was a dead bird on the sidewalk. I should have taken this an omen. No life can exist here. There were no other cars in the parking lot, at all. Hm.

So we come to the front door, which barely looks like an entrance at all, and it's plastered with signs, the biggest being: "Due to customer complaints, we request that you DRESS APPROPRIATELY. Patrons wearing clothes that reveal an excess of skin will be asked to leave." Mm. That's welcoming.

(As an aside-- What are we in for here? For one, I just can't see this as being an actual problem in this town-- as there are only five other people living here under 35, and there seems to be an "understanding" about the liberal use of camo clothing.)

Anyway, after making a mad dash back to the car to cover up my hoochie booty, (kidding) - I open the door, and there are so many signs, you can barely see the books.

"As of Jan. 1st, social websites like Facebook, and Myspace are banned on Library computers."

"Children under 18 MUST be accompanied by an adult at ALL times. Strictly Enforced." (okay, not 18. But you could tell they really wanted that one.)

"Tropic of Capricorn has been removed from the shelf, for obvious reasons."

"To the Person Who Blacked Out Page 144 of The Diary of Anne Frank- Thank You."

"Restrooms Not Available To The Public"

"As of February 15th, this branch will revert back to the traditional card catalog, and the computers will only have typing programs available."

"Blah, blah, blah, More Rules"

As if the plethora of signs wasn't enough to suck the fun out of the public library, then the children's section alone would do it. It was about as unfriendly a place as you could get. It was the Anti-Children's Section. Overly tidy- as if a book had never even left the shelf, and no colorful, childlike ANYTHINGS. And the librarian was dogging my every step, mentioning two or three times that the children should NOT reshelve their own books. -sigh- Mkay. I get it. Let me take my four thousand, disruptive children and we're getting the hippity hoppity out of here!

I'm kinda doubting there's a storytime.

I did manage to find a few books for them (one on Good Manners, and the other on Canyons of America). I searched quickly, and quietly, so as not to disturb the other non-existent patrons. So, then I go get a few books for myself, and... well... let's just say that they had almost every V.C. Andrews book in large print. And not much else. (And hey, let's be honest- there isn't a VC Andrews book left I didn't read in the 8th grade. Ew.)

-sigh-

Okay. That was one branch though, and I'm holding out hope that we just picked the worst one first.

I'm not being insulting here, really... it's just, I guess I'd gotten ridiculously spoiled in Birmingham. Our libraries there, especially the Hoover Library, were ROCKIN'! You just would not believe how awesome they were. I wanted to LIVE at that library, but it would have been way out of my price range.

I can live without a lot of things, people. Cable. Cellphone reception. Shampoo. Alcohol. (Did I mention Pineville is DRY?) But I can't make it in a world without books. Oh, the horror!

Somebody, do something! Help me!

Where's Captain O.G. Readmore when you need him?

Oh wait, I guess that "No Library Mascots Allowed" sign scared him away.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:54 AM

January 25, 2008

Today's Burning Question

is...

What is your favorite candy, that has NO chocolate in it? Don't be shy. Delurk, lurkers, and join the fun. I won't bite. (Well, not YOU. I might your candy, though.)

My favorite:

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:20 AM

January 24, 2008

Awww!!

Don't you love accidentally stumbling across something nice somebody said about you on their blog? It's like a big, squeezy hug just when you need it.

-happy sigh-

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:58 PM

January 23, 2008

Must Be a Glitch

Okay, can anybody tell me why I had 453 hits at the Sift yesterday? (Since I usually have around 80?)

I'm a little weirded out by that.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:38 AM

January 22, 2008

Please Don't Take My Sunshine Away

Oh dreary days, GO AWAY!! What has happened to the sun? Vacationing in Fiji? Somebody call that slacker back because I am sick to death of cold, drizzly days!

I need me some sunshine, dangit!

*ahem.

Sorry.

Little temper tantrum there, I realize. But my mental health is in jeapardy without the option of "Go play outside!" in my vocabulary.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:42 PM

January 21, 2008

Tall Trees 'Round Me

Our first day back to normal life, and it feels.... weird.

King Pen starts his new job today, and I'm attempting to get us back on our regular schedule on the homefront. Back to school, back to our daily habits, (hopefully more good than bad!)

I still have so much to do, pictures to hang being the least of it. I haven't organized the school stuff yet, or my sewing things-- and then all those little details like finding pediatricians, etc. It's a bit daunting, starting all over like that! Kinda makes me want to crawl back into bed. At least today it does, anyway!

I'm glad to be here though- this is a very nice town. We actually live in Pineville, which is across the river from Alexandria. And true to it's name, there are pine trees everywhere. There are pine trees growing on the pine trees. So, I get horrible cellphone reception, which is driving me crazy, but oh well! And I am fearful of the spring time. I can only imagine the havoc this will wreak on my sinuses.

Anyway- Pineville is so laid back, it's unbelievable. It sort of feels like we've stumbled onto a nonstop family reunion or something. Everybody is so nice, so "visity", and even the babies are wearing camo. (What, isn't that how everybody elses family reunions are?) It's hard to describe- how the pace is different here. People don't have their phones glued to their ears all the time. They seem more content in traffic. Couples go grocery shopping together. Little things like that. We've got lots of retired folks, Baptists, and Dairy Queens. Does that give you a feel for things?

It will take some adjusting, but I think we'll fit in fine once we give up our love of good tv reception.

I joke.

Well, not really- our tv reception makes me want to cry, but that's neither here not there. We were watching too much of it anyway. (Always looking for that silver lining. Ha!)

I am happy to be here- I think it will be a great place to raise our family, and to enjoy a slower pace of life. Things are so good, I love where my children are so much, that slowing it down seems like the perfect idea. Time happens too fast as it is.

Well, those are just a few thoughts this morning... guess I should get on to my day. I'll hop on later, once I get a curtain or two hung up.

Man, it feels good to be back!!!

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:52 AM

January 18, 2008

Thank You

First of all, to King Pen's parents, who have done SO much to help us with this move. Letting me stay with the kids over the holidays, babysitting as we house-hunted, letting King Pen borrow the truck, being our "moving crew", and all the trips up and down getting things settled. Thank you for the couch, the bunkbeds, and the fridge. And, making sure there were groceries in the pantry and gas in the car! You have been such a blessing in our lives, and it seems almost silly to try to express that with words. I can't even come close.

And now, to the rest of the list.

Aunt Janet, and Aunt Vickie- thank you for coming to help us pack, load, and clean in Birmingham. It would have been a nightmare to do that without help- especially trying to look after the kids, too. Thank you!

Herman and Michelle- thank you for the lovely Peruvian food and the break from loading the truck! We enjoyed your company and miss you already. Thank you also, Herman, for the help loading. It was unexpected and greatly appreciated.

Laura and Jim H.- thank you for putting us up in Alexandria for the night, and for the many small, thoughtful details you've attended for us since then. It's been lovely meeting and getting to know you- your hospitality and warmth was a hearty welcome! Jim, thank you also for moving a truckload of stuff for us. That was great!

Uncle Clinton- thank you for the beautiful furniture. It's so gorgeous, and I treasure it already! Thank you for driving all the way up and down and all around to get it here. Thank you for entertaining the kids that first day as I got us situated in our new place, and for getting that first load of stuff from the storage building. Also, thanks for loaning us your DVD player when ours was packed up- it was a LIFESAVER.

Mom and Aunt Janet- thank you for babysitting for me, even though you were DOG SICK. I'm so sorry! I do appreciate it, and my carpets are nice and clean because of it.

Mom and Dad- thank you for letting us stay beyond the holidays, for accepting my somewhat random schedule, and helping out with the kids. I know it can be crazy!

Tara- thank you for your impromptu babysitting- I know it was last minute and sorta disrupted your schedule. Thank you for setting two extra places at your table! I know they had fun, and it was a great help.

Jackson, Shelby, and Rachel- thanks for giving up a precious Saturday to help us move! Jackson, the pressure washing was great, everything looks so clean. And Rachel, you are the BEST babysitter. The kids loved you. And Shelby, thanks for the muscle, man. I know we wore all you guys out, and I really appreciate it.

To Rich and Jenny, Gilbert and Cindy, and Sarah and Ryan- thanks for opening up your homes for King Pen during his last days in Birmingham. I know he enjoyed the visit with all of you, and we certainly saved a lot of money on hotels! It was very charitable of you- and we'll always remember that. Next time you head our way, we want to feed you!

To our new neighbors (who won't read this, but need to be mentioned also)- thank you for the food, the welcome, and the friendly waves. We're excited to be here, and I promise, we'll be good neighbors.

Let's see... I think that's everybody. It's hard to keep it all straight- we've had SO much help over this last month. I don't know how we'd have done it without you guys. Thank you from the bottom of my heart-- and come see us soon! We promise we won't make you babysit or paint or move furniture. :) If I missed anybody or anything, I promise it wasn't intentional. I really am grateful for your help, it's just that my mind is mush after this whole thing.

Enjoy your weekend everybody- back to normal blogging, normal life, on Monday!

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:32 AM

January 14, 2008

Not Boxed Anymore

Am I blogging?

I am.

Wow. I'm as surprised as you are!

This has been the most insane week, no-- MONTH!- evah. I've never cleaned/packed/loaded/cleaned again/unpacked/unloaded so hard in my life! But, it's all (mostly) finished. There are some projects to wrap up this week, but all our stuff is here. Still boxes to unpack, a few walls to wipe down, and we haven't even touched the outside yet. But it's home. We're over the hump, and it's all downhill from here.

Which is good, because that was about all WonderGirl had in her.

I cannot express how lovely our welcome has been to Alexandria and this neighborhood. We've been swamped with kindness, and I can't wait to make my thank-yous!

Wish this could be more of a post, but honestly, my hands are just too tired. Literally. I'm making my way back to normal life though, so hang in just a little bit longer! I am like the phoenix, rising from the ZZZz....zzzz...

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:03 PM

January 9, 2008

Living Hourly

Plans seem to change for us by the hour around here. (Wherever "here" actually is at the moment!) But finally, it's come down to me and the kids heading out to Alexandria for good tomorrow, though we're a few days earlier than all our belongings. We're basically camping out in the house. We do have water and electricity and a smattering of "stuff" to keep us occupied, though.

The kitchen is move-in ready, which required quite a bit of cleaning and painting. All the carpets have been shampooed and floors mopped. The boys' room has been painted and the hall bathroom is ready for use. House and carport have been pressure-washed, leaves blown off the front yard and the roof, and outside of windows cleaned. Still to do is paint the hall (this will have to be a midnight project), paint Czarina's room, clean inside of all the windows, clean the laundry room, master bath, wipe down all the closets, and clean the stove and the fireplace. (Dreading those last two. Urgh) Still a lot of work, and a bit harder with the kids in tow, but we're getting there. I really want to have most of this stuff done by Saturday, when King Pen gets there and we're ready to unload stuff.

But, oh my hands.

They were so raw today-- Hours and hours of painting and scrubbing and scraping have taken their toll. I'm treating them to some serious r&r when this is all over. They won't so much as lift a dish for a week. Thank you, chinette.

So, that's 'nuff typing for tonight. I need to let them rest, and my eyeballs are feeling a bit cranky, too.

Few more days, guys!! Then it's all done. Sort of.

I'm working on a big "THANK YOU!!!" post for all the people who've lent a hand in this whole thing... but I'm waiting till the last box is in the house. (So, there's still time if you want to make the list. Ha.) Seriously, we couldn't have done this without gobs of people. So, early thank-you. But wait for the biggie, cause it's coming.

Hope you have a nice whatever day it is. I'm so not sure of what universe I'm even in right now!

PS: King Pen, ILYMTTCT.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:52 PM

January 7, 2008

Scattered

is how I'm feeling these days.

King Pen is still in B'ham, finishing off his last days at work, staying with friends.

Kids and I are back and forth between my folks house, and his folks, with random day trips to Alexandria to work on the house.

We live out of boxes, suitcases, gift bags, and the trunk of my minivan at the moment.

It's almost impossible to find matched socks anymore.

I miss my husband.

But--- these days are dwindling, and home is on the horizon. Reunion is six days away. My bed is six days away.

Lovely thought.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:22 AM

January 4, 2008

Hay is for Horses

But I say it anyway.

Geez Louise- long time no see! I am missing me some blogging! I have, very literally, not had a moment to blog until now. We've been house hunting hardcore, and finally, finally, it all came together. We found an incredible place- so wonderful I just want to cry over it. It had been a bit neglected by the former tenants, and so I think the potential in this house was overlooked by the landlord. We got a DEAL. A few minor cosmetic changes, and this house is a jewel. It's a four bedroom brick home, in a great, quiet neighborhood. There is a living room with a fireplace, a dining room, a breakfast area off the kitchen (and a bar), a school room/play room (what a bonus!!), and two full baths. A huge fenced in backyard, with a deck- trees and the whole shabang. Closets galore, store rooms, laundry room, just amazing. We've never lived with so much square footage- it's going to be a huge change in our lives.

The neighborhood itself is perfect for us. There are sidewalks, shady streets, very little traffic-- the kids will be able to ride bikes and I can go jogging. It's fabulouso.

-happy sigh-

So now, sad to say, there is STILL a lot of work to do, and still no real time to blog. But that will change, I just have to get all this stuff done. Don't give up on me, I'm coming back, I swear it!

Well, that certainly had a Britney feel to it, didn't it?

Okay, I'm out, guys. Back sometime next week.

Let's hope my comeback is a bit more successful than Mrs. Fedderline Spears.

Posted by WonderGirl at 1:59 PM

December 28, 2007

Still Kicking

Hey guys-- just wanted to say, I'm still in the world of the living, but I'm on hiatus till after the New Year. Check back next week... after all the craziness of the holidays and house-hunting and all that.

Happy New Years!!! See y'all in '08.

(By the way... Ash, have you made up your New Year's rhyme yet?)

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:06 PM

December 25, 2007

Merry Christmas, Blogland!

Enjoy the best day of the year!!

Posted by WonderGirl at 2:46 PM

December 21, 2007

Because We Share Everything

I find it necessary to tell you that I bruised my pinkie knuckle with my frantic energetic packing.

Just thought you should know.

And now, back to your regularly scheduled browsing.

PS: Moving truck pulls out at 7 a.m. in the morning!!!

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:52 PM

December 20, 2007

Commenting Elsewhere

Hey, have you guys noticed that when you leave a comment on a Blogspot blog now, you don't have the option of leaving your personal url anymore-- it's got to be with your google/blogger account, a nickname (with no linkage) or one of the other mainstream ids? How much does that bite!?

I call for a boycott. Bloggers, rise up!

Posted by WonderGirl at 6:16 PM

Departures

So tonight we had our Christmas service at church, followed up with food and fellowship. This was our last service, and it was grand. Lovely singing, wonderful telling of the nativity story, good food, good friends. It was a perfect night to go out on. A perfect exit.

But, I am quite tenderhearted about it. I fought back tears several times as I made my goodbyes, especially to a few friends I've been close to. (But Dolly, you snuck out on me! I didn't get to hug your neck! Wah.) And, though I will miss the circle of women I've come to know so well, it wasn't that exactly that had me so upset. It is the loss of fellowship, of community, that is the hardest to bear. We've always gone to church, but seldom actually been a part of it. Does that make sense? Here, we've been absorbed into the body of Christ- we've worshipped together, broken bread together... and to leave that is very hard. I didn't realize how much we'd given ourselves over to these people, to this place. It was an oasis, and I am loathe to leave that spring of fellowship. It's like cutting ourselves off from a thriving, healthy body of believers, and suddenly being adrift in a void.

I have a lump in my throat just typing that.

I know it won't stay that way, I know that God goes before us and that He has a place for us in Alexandria. I believe that. But right now, the future is dimly lit, and my heart is sad.

That's okay for tonight, yes? Tomorrow I will be better, tomorrow I will look forward to changes, to beginnings- but tonight, well tonight is for goodbyes.

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:20 AM

December 18, 2007

AIEEE!

Tuesday night we are hosting our building's Christmas party. Yeah. With all the boxes. But, we couldn't move without a farewell to our good friends here! The kids have all drawn names, so there will be a present exchange. I've gotten them all white tshirts and some fabric paint so that they can make memory shirts. This will keep them occupied while we adults try my first attempt at Hot Buttered Rum! Wahoo! I've been dying to make this stuff, and I've finally got the perfect opportunity.

But, lest you think we are all lushes, there is more on the menu than just booze. We'll be eating jambalaya and french bread, and for dessert- mini pecan pies. We're going for the cajun theme, just to jazz this thing up, and share a little of Louisiana with our Peruvian neighbors. Add in some beer (Abita, of course), a cheese and cracker plate, a bowl of holiday m&ms, and crank up a little Zydeco Christmas music, and you've got yourself a bonafide Creole Christmas party! Laissez les bons temps rouler!

I've also compiled a photo album of all the kids over the past year to give to my closest neighbor, Michelle. She's been great, and I will really miss her.

It will be a busy day for me tomorrow, trying to get the house presentable enough and get the food ready, but I'm really looking forward to it. It's a nice break from packing- a moment to stop and enjoy the people around me, this place and the memories we made. It seems a fitting time to say farewell, a time when we appreciate the blessings God has given us and the people He brings into our lives.

Plus. Come on. Hot buttered rum? How can that not equal fun?

I'll save you a mug.

Mkay. Time for bed. Night, folks. See you tomorrows.

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:30 AM

December 17, 2007

Trouble in Threes

Hey, remember that transmission problem we were having- and I had to take it in again? Well, guess what? It's not the transmission. It's the alternator. I kid you not. I couldn't make this stuff up! In the month before Christmas, we've had to replace (or repair) the transmission, the brakes, and now the alternator.

Un-stinking-believable.

Oh well. Ya gotta have a running car, so you just suck it up.

Posted by WonderGirl at 4:02 PM

December 14, 2007

Weekend Update with WonderGirl

So... exactly how high can you stack boxes? I feel like I've got a few leaning towers of pisa around here. May have to do some reinforcement before the kids get home today. My box towers wouldn't stand a chance against the ninjas, choo-choo trains, cowboys, Power Rangers, and puppies.

Speaking of which, the chirruns are rolling in around 3 today with King Pen's parents. They'll be thrilled with the strangeness of living in Box Land for a week! (The kids, not King Pen's parents.) I think his folks are spending the night with us. They'll be staying in the Guest Suite, which is conveniently located in the Living Room, with state-of-the-art Air Mattress amenities. It's the perfect getaway for traveling grandparents! Turn down service available.

And a few hours later, King Pen's sister and her kids will be here, too. They are staying in a hotel, except for two of the younger kids, who will be bunking here. On a bed of boxes. Then Saturday morning, we're headed over to Moss Rock Preserve, unless it rains. Which, unfortunately, is likely. But if it doesn't, we'll hike and show off one of B'hams hidden treasures. If it does rain, we'll probably hit the McWane Science Center. Not exactly a hidden treasure. Unless you count the loose change in the ballpit. Which we'll need, because the tickets are outrageous for this thing! Why must fun be so expensive?

Anyway, that'll be our Saturday. Everyone is leaving that afternoon, and we'll get straight to the work of our last week here. Much to do, many goodbyes to say...

Well, I must be off. These boxes aren't going to move themselves. (Except for that one over there, marked "Creature". I'm scared of that box. I don't even know where it came from.)

Okay-- Enjoy your Friday, everybody!

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:00 AM

December 13, 2007

Boxes, Boxes, Everywhere

Alright! It's starting to look like we're moving around here! Left to do: kitchen, linen closet, King Pen's closet, and outside stuff. And, of course, disassembling furniture, minor repairs, and cleaning. But it seems feasible now, that we may actually be on schedule! Wahoo!

Posted by WonderGirl at 7:13 PM

Starbucks ER

I
need
coffee.

Stat.

Posted by WonderGirl at 4:55 PM

Checking My Lists

There seems to be an endless amount of stuff to do around here. Do you detect that tiny twitch in my eye, the slightly higher-than-normal pitch of my voice? Just a wee bit of panic here, lads and lassies. So, naturally, this is also the time when other troubles start. -sigh- The transmission- ARGH. Yes, the one we just had rebuilt-- it's whining! The nerve! And whining is contagious-- see? It whines, I whine. It is under warranty, so it won't be money out of our pocket, but it just comes at a BAD time. I do not want to have to be worrying with this right now! I guess better now than on the road when we're moving, though. Honestly, they better fix it right this time.

Anyway, besides that, packing is going well- but a bit daunting. Six people can accumulate a bunch of junk, I tell ya. I'm throwing it out left and right. It's actually pretty liberating. I mean, who needs a couch? Beds? Chairs? Clothes? Time to let it all go, my friends. Sleeping bags and milk crates in the nude will do just fine. (I may be getting a bit carried away with the whole "purge thy possessions" thing. Or possibly, it's the delirium kicking in.)

Christmas shopping, mostly done. I am waiting on a few things I ordered online, so that'll be it. I can't complain about the shopping though-- I've had so much fun spending money! I could seriously get used to that! Ha! Not that I've gone crazy-- but when you're basically just used to paying the bills and buying groceries, then it makes the Christmas shopping a real treat. Like, how cocaine is a treat.

Trying to get planned and organized for our last week here-- we have a lot of social activities next week on top of finishing up the packing. I really don't want to spend our final days here stressed out- that's no way to say goodbye. So I'm doing as much as possible now.

Well, I'm wiped. I gotta hit the hay. (Literally-- I gave away the mattress.) Night, y'all.

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:03 AM

December 10, 2007

Oh boy.

Fourteen boxes down. And it's barely a dent.

Posted by WonderGirl at 6:47 PM

77° F

Shopping at the mall today, it occurs to me that only in the South can you buy short-sleeve Christmas shirts. -Sigh-

Humid Holidays, everybody!

Posted by WonderGirl at 3:06 PM

December 9, 2007

Building Boxes

Whoa, hello Sunday! Snuck right up on me, didn't ya? I can't believe another week is upon me, one that must be very productive! This is do or die time. The kids are away, and I must pack, pack, pack. (And shop, shop, shop. Nap, nap, nap. Read, read, read.)

And hopefully I'll be so busy I won't cry, cry, cry. It's really starting to hit me. Part of me is very nervous about leaving the sure thing, ya know? We know every Sunday what to expect, we know that we will be well nourished, and in the company of dear folks who love us and love God. It's scary to leave that, and head into who knows what! And then, leaving our little community breaks my heart a bit, too. The kids have such good friends, and I have enjoyed the moms here in our building. We're having a Christmas/Farewell party, and I know for certain, I won't make it through without some tears.

-Sigh-

But, it's the right thing to do, I know it. This is a wonderful job, closer to family-- it's perfect. Just wish saying goodbye wasn't so tough. Wish I could take all the good stuff with me.

Anyway... blogging may be sparse over the next two weeks as I get all this in motion. Don't give up on me-- just keep popping back occasionally for updates.

Hope you all have a lovely week! Bye, bye, bye!

Posted by WonderGirl at 5:30 PM

December 6, 2007

I'm No Grinch, But...

Enough with the car repairs at Christmas already! To the rebuilt transmission, we now had to add new brakes, to the tune of $400.

I mean, it is what it is, I'm not letting this ruin my holiday-- but the unexpected expenditures have got to stop, or we'll never pull it all off- moving, Christmas expenses, deposits and all for a new place, etc. ARGH!

Come on, Santy Claus! All I want for Christmas is my two front wheels NOT TO FALL OFF.

Posted by WonderGirl at 2:07 PM

December 4, 2007

Occupations

Two and a half weeks till we move... OH.MY.GOSH.

The kids leave Friday for their grandparents house (thank you, Ms. Sue, what ever would I do without you??), and I have a week to get this place boxed up. Yeah, I'm a little bit freaking out. And sad to be going. But excited, too. (I may be developing a bipolar disorder.)

Rental truck is reserved, and storage facility is a go. Now we just have to find a place to live! We're waiting till the end of Dec. to do that, and hopefully by mid January, we'll be in a place.

Details, details.

Speaking of which, who wants to watch my kids the evening of Dec 21st while we load the truck? Anyone, anyone?

I love moving at the start of a new year, though. I know 2008 holds many new exciting things for la familia de WonderGirl. Lots of memories to be made with cousins, a promising career for King Pen, and maybe, just maybe... WonderGirl's verra own house? Wouldn't it be lovely this time next year to be hanging a wreath on my own hearth? This is at least a step in that direction, and it cheers me to the bone. Bring it on, 2008.

In Christmas news... we've got most of our shopping done. Though we scaled back a good bit, I am still excited about the holidays. We don't buy our kids many toys throughout the year-- even if we had a lot of money, I doubt we would. So Christmas is an extra special time, it really is our big moment of the year to splurge on them. I can't wait to see how excited they are to see what's under the tree this year.

I really wanted to get us into more of the Advent activities this season, but with moving, it complicates things. Next year though, we will employ more solid traditions that emphasize the birth of Christ, drawing them back to the reason we celebrate this holiday. I mean, obviously, they know... but it's so easy for them to be distracted from that by such a clear cultural focus on Santa.

Not that Santa doesn't ROCK. Cause he fills our stockings to the brim around here...

But we all know the Truth behind the trimmings. Just want to make sure that comes through loud and clear with the chirruns.

Well, look, I gotta go. I have so much stinking stuff to do, it's not even funny! Hope you all have a lovely Tuesday. I'll try to get on here and post our Christmas tree pix later today. Adios!

Posted by WonderGirl at 3:50 PM

December 2, 2007

Done and Done

I did it! I've completed my six weeks of no shampoo! I would like to thank the people at the water company, who so graciously provided me with extra water for thorough rinsing, and my husband, who pretended not to notice the funky days, and my friends and family, whose curiousity outweighed their disgust, and of course, God, who gave me hair to experiment on.

As for now, I will continue to go sans shampoo. I mean, why mess up a good thing? I'm not promising never to use it again, but none for the time being.

So now what? What's the next big challenge? I feel like I need something. I have to admit, it was kinda fun having a short term objective like that. Go vegan for a month? Stop wearing deodorant? Give up processed foods? Mm. Not likely. I'm open to suggestions, though.

Anyway.

Other news... you know how we were planning to move before Christmas, but then we changed our minds? Well, we changed 'em back. So now we're moving Dec. 22, which is, oh three weeks away? Yikes. I mean YIKES!!!! What am I doing blogging? *running off in a panic.

Posted by WonderGirl at 5:14 PM

December 1, 2007

Love Me Some Saturday

A verra good day.Christmas presents were bought, mall pizza eaten, and a free pair of pearl earrings from the new jewelry store at the Galleria now don my cute little earlobes.  I kid you not.   I got a coupon in the mail, and I redeemed it.  No strings attached, they didn't require my firstborn child, and they didn't bully me into buying the matching necklace.  Although, I did take in my engagement ring for repair, so there's that.  But still.  We like-a the free stuff.So, that's all... just wanted to share good vibes on this Saturday night.More tomorrow!  We're putting up our tree, so there'll be pix to post.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:13 PM

November 26, 2007

Outing Myself

Okay, I can't lie to you anymore. I can't live this double life! I know you think I'm fabulously academic in my book choices. Right? You do think that, don't you? I mean, I'm in a book club, and that makes me special. (Well, not anymore. But I was at one point, and that counts for something.) I was part of that elite society, connoisseurs of fine books. We wouldn't touch a book if it was on Oprah's book list. And we certainly don't read chic lit- *shiver.

But with great power, comes great responsibility. (Spiderman? Who's that? I don't sully myself with popculture, so I do not know of this Spiderman you speak of.)

Anyway. I have obligations that come with my position as Le Book Snob. I have literary principles to uphold, and I certainly can't be seen reading this:

So I've been sneaking it.

And it's sooo good. Each chapter ends with a gun pointed at somebody, or a bomb counting down the seconds to explode, or a subterranean chamber about to flood. I can't put it down! I'm so ashamed.

Which is why, Teri, I am hesitant to sign up at Goodreads. Because then you'll all know the truth. I am not quite as blue blood as I've led you all to believe. I am not sipping Earl Grey and nibbling scones as I read Jane Austin. I'm over here, gulping down Starbucks, polishing off Halloween candy, reading James Rollins like there's no tomorrow.

I hope we can still be friends.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:03 AM

November 24, 2007

Lovely to Be

H O M E !!!

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:04 PM

November 19, 2007

Oh, WonderGirl, Where Art Thou?

At my folks house after a very hectic couple of days. We got about an hour and a half into our trip Friday, and our transmission EX PLO DED.

What followed is something I'd rather not re-live. Stranded on the side of the road with four kids, in the cold, waiting on a tow truck. More than one of us had to make a potty visit to the woods. Then, a night in a hotel with a 7, 4, and 2 year old, and an 8 month old. And yes, somebody slept in the bathtub, but I won't say who. Okay, not that bad. The playpen in the bathroom, but still. The kids thought it was a grand adventure, which is a much better perspective than the panicky, what-on-God's-green-earth-are-we-gonna-do state that King Pen and I were in.

Ya know when it all hits the fan? Yeah, that's where we were. But we managed. Fortunately, we were able to rent a minivan the next morning, reschedule our meeting in Alexandria, and get on the road.

So, the job is nailed down now. He'll start Feb. 1st, which means we will not move until after Christmas. That'll be much easier than our original plan to move over the holidays, so I'm glad for it. This way we can decorate a tree and all that. Assuming that we can talk our landlord into letting us stay the extra month, because our lease actually expires Dec. 31st. We'll see.

Don't know the status of the van yet, but we're predicting doom. The transmission is a goner. Which means, sadly, so is our Christmas budget. Not that there was much of a budget to begin with, but what was there is definitely gone now. That's a bummer, but there's no sense in dwelling on it. C'est le vie.

Anyway, just wanted to give an update. I'm here with WonderMom, planning the Thanksgiving menu and just enjoying the pleasures of home. I'll blog off and on this week, but for the most part, consider me on vacation. I'm clocked out, y'all!! Literally, and figuratively.

Have a loverly day!

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:11 AM

November 16, 2007

I Will Not Cry

Dear Family:

When you see my beautiful, red minivan pulling into your driveway this Thanksgiving holiday, rush forward and GIVE ME A HUG. Because you have no idea what suitcase packin' day is like.

Love,
WonderGirl

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:02 PM

When Others Struggle

I only have a few minutes today, there is SO much to do. We're getting ready for another marathon trip- and that involves megapacking. On Saturday, we are meeting AGAIN with the future employer to nail down the specifics and hopefully get everything in writing so we can move forward with this move. Then, I'm spending a week with the kids at my parents house. So it's a busy day today.

But before I get to all that, I wanted to blog. My internet connection was spotty yesterday, so when I got up this morning and it worked, I had a lot of catching up to do. I love reading my favorite blogs as the kids eat breakfast and I drink my coffee. It's like my morning paper and a chat with friends all rolled into one. Most of the time, the news is funny and informative. Even the daily routines of other people cheer me. But sometimes, it's not a good day for news. Sometimes, the news is enough to break your heart.

It seems that so many of my friends and family are struggling financially right now. I can feel the full weight of that anxiety, that depression, that desperate desire to trust God but not knowing how to do that in the face of such grim circumstances. Been there, done that. Or rather, AM there, DOING that. So I get it, I really, really do. And I wish more than anything that I could help. When I read about a friend skipping meals so her children have more to eat, nothing in the world would bring me more joy than to write out a check RIGHT this instant, and be the means that God uses to provide for this week. Another friend, whose husband is out of work and is trying, trying to trust God but struggling... oh how I wish I could reach out and hug her. To see these troubles, and to really "get" it, but be helpless to aid them, it's heartbreaking.

Financial worries I understand, but when it crosses into health issues, well, it certainly puts things in perspective. I read a post from a fellow blogger this morning about her husband's cancer, and how they are looking into hospices now... oh, God. I pray for comfort and peace for them... I don't even know WHAT to pray. Saying goodbye to your lifelong love, oh my heart. That hurts.

I've told them all I'll be praying for them, and I really mean it. I will be. I hope that means something to them, that it lets them know they are cared for, that they're not alone. I hope they know it means they are remembered, their problems matter, and that their names are whispered into the Almighty's ear every day.

One day, maybe I'll be able to do more. That's my prayer, that one day God will allow us to be tools in other people's lives. That He'll give us the blessing and honor of being in a position to make a monetary difference. What a joy that would be! But I am no less content with being the one to hug, because that is a calling as well.

Anyway... those are my thought today. I realize they were a bit blue, but it is what it is. Remember those who are suffering around you today. Pray that God opens your eyes to the needs of others. Minister to those He leads in your path, even if it means just offering up prayers, and pointing back to Him. Encourage one another, lift each other up...

Okay, I'll stop before this turns into Chicken Soup for the Soul.

Have a wonderful weekend, everybody. I'll be back on Monday.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:30 AM

November 13, 2007

Reading Rainbow

I made a mad dash to the library Sunday afternoon twenty minutes before it closed. I went to the children's section, literally sweeping the display books by the armful into my bag. Then, I grabbed stacks and stacks of primary reader books- I was determined that Czarina would NOT run out of them this week. And for myself, I got the 4th Wrinkle In Time book, and two other books just because I liked the cover. (Yes, I am that shallow!) I sped to the checkout counter, a little out of breath, with library card in hand. I waited rather sheepishly as the librarian scanned my bajillion books. I felt a little greedy with all the books I had, but with four kids, it takes a lot to get us through the a whole week! I really need a wagon to tote them all around.

Anyway, as I was leaving, I was reminded again what a blessing the library is in my life. I would be a different person if it wasn't for this institution! Growing up, we certainly didn't have money to buy books. And without books... well, how much thinking would I have missed? How many character lessons would have passed me by? How many stories of bravery and loyalty and patience and a thousand other virtues would have never imprinted themselves on my little heart? How well would I have learned to see and empathize from different perspectives? Would ballet, physics, Chinese history, beekeeping, timetravel, sailing, forensics- would any of those things piqued my curiosity outside the framework of storytelling? How much of my natural optimism comes from the thousand happy endings I've read?

So much of who I am was formed in those moments I spent curled up with a book.

So that's why I make my mad dashes to the library. It's why we pile up on HeroBoy's bed, all those warm pajama'd little bodies pressed in so tightly that I can barely see the words to read. For those few minutes, we slip into the world of Miss Spider's New Car, Traction Man, and Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day. They laugh at the voices I do, and giggle at the silliness of a dog on a flying couch, they jump when I do the scary parts, they say "awwwww" during the adorable bits. They are as swept into the world of books as I have always been... and once again, the library changes a generation.

Books don't guarantee anything... literacy isn't a promise for a trouble-free life. But it is soil to grow amazing things. It is a rich, fertile garden, where little seeds can sprout into giant oaks.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:56 AM

November 12, 2007

Our Most Desperate Hour

So, anybody else have a kinda blah day?

Help me, Tuesday. You're our only hope!

-sigh-

Boredom is not good for WonderGirl.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:34 PM

November 11, 2007

Bleck! No More!

Okay, I can NO LONGER have this Halloween candy in my house. I'm chunking it all, I mean it, first thing tomorrow morning.

(Never mind that I already ate all the good stuff out of it.)

So, who's with me? Today, right? No more junky food, no more putting off the cardio until tomorrow? Let's go!

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:59 PM

November 10, 2007

SHH!

My kids got NO respect for Saturday morning. -sigh-

I remember Saturdays when I was a kid. Friday night, my mom had breakfast bowls and cereal boxes on the table for the next morning. We kids would wake up at an indecent hour to watch our lineup, and tend to ourselves for the morning. We got our own breakfast, and settled our own disputes. We knew better than to break the cardinal rule: Do NOT wake up the parents. Not because so-and-so took your seat, or it was YOUR turn to pick the cartoon, or because you want to know if you can have that 4th bowl of Captain Crunch. And heaven help you if you intruded upon their slumbering sanctuary over the cereal prize. Heads. Would. Roll. You better be bleeding and needing stitches if you dared to break that sacred silence in the back of the house. Nothing short of an ER visit could justify poking your head in that dark, fan-whirring sleepfest.

And oooooh, do I get that now.

Right now, King Pen and I take turns on whose Saturday it is to sleep in, although I do it less in general. He has to get up earlier every day for the work week, so I don't mind letting him sneak in a few extra hours.

Hohum.

You better believe I'm counting down the days till my kids are old enough to handle a morning on their own, though. Oh, sweet, sweet day.

Okay, I'm off for more coffee. At this point, if you can't beat 'em... join 'em.

Posted by WonderGirl at 8:52 AM

November 9, 2007

Last Confession of the Week

I think I may be abusing the comfort and convenience of yoga pants.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:11 AM

November 8, 2007

All is Flux

One thing I noticed after having four children is an increased tolerance for kids. Yeah, yeah, don't be a smartypants. What I mean is, for extra kids. It is a rare day when I don't have a few extra knuckleheads running around my house. It just doesn't seem to phase me anymore! As a matter of fact, I'm happy to have them here because then my children are occupied, and I can keep my eyes on 'em at the same time. Everybody knows that at 5:30, it's time to go home, and there's no fuss over it. They know they'll be welcome back tomorrow.

This is not a skill I was born with. Seriously. The idea of being in charge of half a dozen children at one time was slightly horrifying. I babysat a lot as a teenager, but that was for money. When you're sixteen and convinced that social extinction awaits the unfashionable- yeah, you'll put up with a lot to get those Guess jeans. But it was never my "calling". It was more a matter of necessity than anything else. I'm not even sure I liked kids back then.

Gee, that sounds bad.

Anyway. So, that's why this whole new, kid lovin' me is surprising.

I've changed.

Wha? Again? For some reason, it never fails - change always shocks me! I always think I'm done, I'm finally all of who I'll be in this life. And I never am! You'd think I'd get that by now.

I remember being in my early twenties, and feeling quite smug with myself, so sure that I had finally "arrived". I had it pretty well figured out. Well, imagine my surprise by my late twenties, when lo and behold, I had changed again! Turns out I had NOT learned everything there was to know at 21. I laughed fondly at that silly girl, quite smug AGAIN in my late-ish 20's, thinking, well, NOW I've got the goods on this whole thing called Life. I've got it pegged for sure.

But, no. Hello thirties! More experiences, more changing. Looking back (with wise eyes, no doubt- ha!) on my twenties, I see how far I've come. So now... what do I do? I think surely THESE are the years I will finally achieve Me-Dom!

*rolling eyes

I'll never learn. The thing is, you're never done. You never stop changing, you never get the "whole" picture... because we live life one chapter at a time. Who knows what and who I'll be when I get to the end! There are so many years ahead, so many changes waiting in those unturned pages.

But that's the fun of it, isn't it? Surprise endings are always the best.

Anyway, those are just some random thoughts on a Thursday night. Time for Leno... and a dip into the Halloween bucket.

G'night, ya'll. Sleep tight.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:20 PM

November 7, 2007

Confession

Sometimes, I vacuum my kitchen table.

Does that make me a bad person?

Posted by WonderGirl at 1:48 PM

November 6, 2007

Case of the Missing Title

Fall has crept up in my backyard, and it's so pretty. I love the changing of the seasons in B'ham. Although, we have not relinquished Summer altogether-- it was so warm yesterday, I wore a tanktop! It felt all wrong, but it was honestly hot enough for it. Today is a bit cooler, though, so maybe we'll settle into Fall for good soon.

Let's see... what have I to say this morning? Not much, really. Sorry, guys. You came all this way for nothing! Nada. Zip. Zilch. Listen, I'll make it to ya, okay? Meet me here, in say.... three hours. I'll have something for you then, honestly. Something brilliant. Witty. Relevant. On the house, mkay?

How about a picture of a cat before I go? Would that make you feel better? This one amuses me:

Now, see? Better already.

Okay, see you in few... careful out there. Don't forget your kitty.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:54 AM

November 2, 2007

The Weekly Wrap-Up

Friday, thank the stars!! It's been a doozy of a week. Having a huge kid holiday in the middle of the week can really throw things off kilter. I'm looking forward to a nice, mellow weekend, starting off with a Girl's Coffee Night tonight, with Dolly and Sarah. Yay!

How about a hair update? Or, how about not. You may not want one this week- it's been a rough couple of days. I'm on Day 12 of the No Shampoo Experiment. The front of my hair is balancing out, but the back was really heavy and oily this week. Gross. I tried not to put it into a ponytail too much, because I felt like it needed the fresh air. Ew! It's much more manageable if I blow dry it and straighten it. It's still also quite cumbersome to wash. It's hard to get my fingers through it when it's wet, but I wash it once, sometimes twice a day. Anyway, I had a moment yesterday when I absolutely LONGED for some shampoo in my hair... but I didn't do it. I perservered. It smells okay. It's an indefinable scent, I guess it's more "animal" than normal. More like fur. That sounds just lovely, doesn't it? Not like stinky wet dog... but like a soft, rabbity fuzzy smell. Yes, I promise a picture... I'll get King Pen to take one of me tonight before I leave for the Coffee Night. Maybe some dangly earrings will distract you from the questionable 'do!

Moving right along... I had a bit of a breakdown yesterday. Nothing huge, just a normal, run of the mill, "I've-got-four-kids-and-am-I-doing-anything-right?" meltdown. They usually come up on me when the house gets unorganized, and I start to feel overwhelmed by the big picture. I am also battling a cold, and feel worn down physically. I think with moving on the horizon and the holidays and all that, it just all got to me. I have guilt issues, silly ones, and it's a constant struggle to sift the good, healthy urgings of my conscience from the negative, unhelpful guilt that comes from ridiculous expectations of myself. But this is a whole blog post in itself! I'll save that one. Anyway, a good cry followed up with some reassurance and a hug from my husband went a long way to fixing it. I feel much better today. Much more in perspective.

Anyway, I'm off for a little while. We're going to the library this morning, so that means I've got to get out of my pjs at some point.

Happy Friday, folks!

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:37 AM

Mr. Thumbkins

Ow! I slept on my thumb weird. How is that even possible?

That's not all I'll blog, but I have a bottle to give now. (If I can figure out how to do it with a now non-opposable thumb.)

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:00 AM

October 31, 2007

Taking Back Halloween

Hello, my name is WonderGirl, I'm a Christian, and I take my children trick or treating.

Why? CANDY! And dressing up in fun costumes. And carving pumpkins into silly faces. And scary corn mazes. Did I mention the candy?

But it's more than that. I feel led to celebrate Halloween. I'll explain.

I'm tempted to just link to some other people who have given such good explanations about why Christians can (and mayhaps should) celebrate Halloween. But that seems like cheating in some way, so I'll give you the long and short of why WE celebrate, with liberal use of exerpts here and there that say it better than I can.

There are SO many misconceptions about the origins of Halloween. I won't go into them all, because that's been done quite a bit. You can read a good synopsis here. Suffice it to say, most of what the secular world thinks about Halloween is just out and out false historically.

Halloween is "All Hallows’ Eve". It is the day before All Saints Day, which is November 1. Jim Jordan gives a good run down of All Saint's Day (HT to Rich for this link): "It is the celebration of the victory of the saints in union with Christ. The observance of various celebrations of All Saints arose in the late 300s, and these were united and fixed on November 1 in the late 700s. The origin of All Saints Day and of All Saints Eve in Mediterranean Christianity had nothing to do with Celtic Druidism or the Church’s fight against Druidism (assuming there ever even was any such thing as Druidism, which is actually a myth concocted in the 19th century by neo-pagans.)"

It is not "the devil's day". It is actually the very opposite. Satan has been thwarted, Christ has won the victory, and this is a day of celebration! We remember those saints that have gone on before us, and laugh at the defeat of our enemy. More from Jim Jordan: "This is why the custom arose of portraying Satan in a ridiculous red suit with horns and a tail. Nobody thinks the devil really looks like this; the Bible teaches that he is the fallen Arch-Cherub. Rather, the idea is to ridicule him because he has lost the battle with Jesus and he no longer has power over us." Halloween is a day of mockery. It reduces the power of Satan to plastic fangs and fake blood... it is a day when the ghoulish and ghastly are really nothing more than peeled grapes in a bowl, cold cooked spaghetti. It is a day when someone says, "BOO!" and we laugh.

So, we've got this holiday that we've relinquished culturally over the years. The meaning of the day is convoluted. So what to do about that? Reclaim it. Don't be afraid of it. What have we to fear? Spooks have no power over the name of Jesus Christ! Laugh at the futile, pitiful attempts of the Fallen. Don't cower in your house, with the lights off, warding off the evil of trick or treaters. Brandy says it so well on her blog: "We are to be missional Christians. What kind of message does it send to the world we are supposed to be reaching, especially the kids, when they find a dark porch with no candy or a note that says "We don't participate in this holiday." How much better would it be if, in the midst of such a dark night, we had the brightest house on the block, decorated with tons of white lights. We could hand out the BEST candy! Full sized candy bars. And, if you have time to spare, make cool wrappers to tape around that say, "Taste and see that the Lord is good! Psalm 34:8" That is one night that we have a unique opportunity. When kids from non christian families in our neighborhood come to our house year after year hopefully they will remember the Christians as the most generous, the most joyous, the least fearful."

I love that!

Are there elements of Halloween that we should be careful of? Well, naturally. The Bible is pretty clear on avoiding evil and embracing righteousness. But we are salt and light, as much on October 31st as any other day of the year. We shouldn't give that day away because we are afraid. Dennis Ruport says, "While Christians should absolutely avoid pagan practices, Christian hype tends to make us overreact to benign folk elements of Halloween. We appear like zany buffoons to the world when there is no necessity for doing so. Furthermore, our groundless retreat from all elements of Halloween leaves a vacuum that wicked elements delight to fill."

So there you have it. That's why we celebrate Halloween.

(But mostly just the candy. Ha.)

PS: I am including our weekly pastoral letter in the extended entry for my own record keeping, and in case you are interested in reading a more detailed theological defense of Halloween. There's definitely a reason Rich gets the paycheck! It's great!

Continue reading "Taking Back Halloween"

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:33 AM

October 30, 2007

$1.4B Oops

Forgive me for a moment, while I completely lose it. I don't usually get political, but this just got under my skin and I can't not write about it.

[Begin Rant]

Pentagon accidentally asked for 1.4 billion dollars more than they needed in a budget proposal to Congress last week. According to the request, the money was for equipment to deal with the growing sniper threat in Iraq. The report stated that sniper attacks had quadrupled in the last year, and would only get worse if not controlled.

Well, thank goodness for USA TODAY, which noticed some glaring inconsistencies between the budget request, and in military reports in it's possession. Not only are sniper attacks down since 2006, they've dropped drastically in the last four months!

Pentagon is calling it a "misstatement". Where I come from, we call that sucker A LIE. But never fear, because now that they got busted with fraudulent expenditures have realized their mistake, they're taking action, by removing the term "quadrupled." Wow.

Dave Patterson, deputy undersecretary of Defense says it will be removed because "...it is simply incorrect."

Well, thank goodness. I feel better already!

1.4 billion dollars. Sheesh. That's a bunch of money, y'all. That's a big oops, but you sure wouldn't know it by how cool everybody is playing it. Glad to see they're not too hard on themselves about it. Not like if I'd accidentally "misstated" something on my income tax forms.

I've never seen someone slide out of a lie so smoothly. It makes me ill.

As an aside, the 1.4 billion was just a part of a $42 billion supplemental budget. They have, at least, decided to review the report closer to check for any more innocent errors.

Cost of the war on Iraq so far: $464 billion dollars. I can't even fathom that number, or what we could be doing with it instead. It just seems like our country could really, REALLY use an infusion of it's OWN money. There are leaks and holes and rust spots in our country. We've got poverty and disease and illiteracy and a homeless epidemic. Most of America is struggling to put food on the table and living without health insurance. We have needs HERE. It's just hard to know that we're in Iraq, doing who knows what (because you know we have no idea what is going on) for people who may honestly HATE us for interfering in something we barely even understand to begin with. Nobody can really tell us WHY we're doing WHATEVER it is we're doing. Am I wrong here? Am I the only one who is this clueless?

It's thoroughly depressing. I'm so sick of this war, I don't understand it anymore.

[End Rant]

Anyway, sorry to be a downer. Just needed to get that out. I'll be back to brighter topics tomorrow, as it is Halloween and we are on the cusp of candy nirvana! I will bury my troubles in caramel.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:00 PM

Those Meddling Kids

It is my opinion that Scooby and Shaggy are terribly exploited by Vanessa Daphne, Velma, and Fred. They always get the dirty jobs, the life-threatening, scary, dangerous ones. They are ALWAYS the bait.

And all for a few measly Scooby snacks?

D, V, and F should be ashamed of themselves, taking advantage of a dog and a half-wit like that.

Tsk.

Now back to less random thoughts.

Posted by WonderGirl at 1:58 PM

Cross Dressing

Not a question you normally expect from your husband: "So, do you think we can work on my dress tonight?"

Well, sure babe. I don't want you walking around in an ill fitting dress.

Halloween, here he comes! And yes, I WILL be posting pictures, even if I have to hide behind a bush to take them. I can't pass up a chance to immortalize my dear old hubby in a dress and wig. It's scary on so many levels.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:49 AM

The Big Scoop

What's up, buttercup? How are y'all getting along this morning? I'm enjoying my coffee, the smell of cinnamon rolls, watching the breeze whipping through the trees outside, and being nice and cozy in my fuzzy robe and slippers. All at once. I may be close to sensory overload! I do love the Fall. There are so many things to titillate the senses!

Okay, I have obtained the greenlight on going public with a very exciting announcement. We wanted to be sure before we told anyone, so we waited a while. We are happy to share the news that we are...

...

...

Continue reading "The Big Scoop"

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:20 AM

October 26, 2007

This and That

Top o'the morning to ya, lads and lassies. How's it going? Mine is off to it's usual start, except we're adding a few runny noses to the mix. Comes with the change in the weather, I guess. We'll be keeping Kleenex in business till April!

So, our weekend is shaping up nicely. King Pen gets off at 2 today, and he's swinging by the house, and picking up HeroBoy and Czarina. They're going to wrangle up his Halloween costume (for the office contest) and get a pumpkin for us to carve. Saturday, my aunt is coming in for a visit. Sunday, we have church, and then our Reformation Day party which includes a cookout and a moonwalk for the kids. We will be trick or treating on Halloween, though. I think I'll write a post on why we do that, as Christians, a little closer to the actual holiday.

Moving on.

November 1st is creeping up on me again, and I've decided to give NaNoWriMo another try. I only did it one year, and didn't get very far at all. I imagine that it will be just as difficult to stick with this year, too, but I'm going for it nonetheless! I actually have a very good story idea, one that I'm fairly in love with, and I didn't have that last time. I had no clear direction at all. So maybe that will make a difference this go round. We'll see.

Update on my hair: tomorrow will be seven days with no shampoo. Last night, I did the baking soda paste on my roots, and that tidied them up a bit. My scalp kinda hurts though! Girls, you'll know what I'm talking about- it's like I've been wearing a ponytail all day long and I've taken it out. I can't imagine why. Maybe because the glands aren't being stimulated like normal? I know in the past, when I've fasted, my teeth have hurt-- like they need a certain amount of "work" or they start to feel weird. I don't know. Just thought it was worth noting. It's still very thick, but not horribly unmanagable. It's not too bad, all told. My "flyaways" are much better, too. It smells strangely "earthy" though, and by that, I do not mean "disgusting". It's more of an absense of smell... like not fruity, or flowery-- no extra fragrance from hair products at all. We'll see what happens. I don't know that I want to give off an "earthy" aroma. That's dangerously close to "gamey" or "oh-my-gosh-what-died-in-here?!" Nothing will stop this experiment faster than a funky smell coming from my head. Right now, it's okay. I'm sure my very honest children will let me know if I start smelling like a dead horse.

Well, I have things to get to. I'll blog later, after the day gets settled in some.

Happy Friday, folks!

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:39 AM

October 24, 2007

What- I'm busy!

What am I doing today, you ask? Well, it certainly isn't watching DVD's all day. No sirree. I'm way too busy to watch the entire sixth season of Smallville back to back. As if!

Now, if you'll excuse me. I, ah, have some things to do. Very important, um... householdy type things. Like laundry. And mopping.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:58 AM

October 23, 2007

Dear NBC:

Hi. Long time watcher, first time writer. So, your show Heroes-- I like it. I mean, it's not the best thing I've ever seen, but it makes Monday night a little better. (Especially since you can't count on Jay Leno doing Headlines and doing that asinine Jaywalking bit instead.) Anyway. As a born and bred Southern girl, I feel compelled to point out that your New Orleans characters have absolutely mangled the accent. It's atrocious. Nobody has spoken that way since 1870. I almost can't bear to listen to it.

Please, make a trip down here. Come meet my Papaw and my Nanny, sit on the porch swing. Have a glass of iced tea and listen to our gentle drawl as we talk about how the corn is holding up during the drought. You'll notice that we don't talk like Scarlett O'Hara. Nobody is clinging to Tara, wearing curtains, or shootin' Yankees. It's subtle, y'all.

Okay, that's it. Just tell your actors to pull it back a little.

Thank you,
WonderGirl

PS: Loving The Office!!

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:16 AM

October 22, 2007

Dead or Alive

I'm rounding up a posse for my missing datebook. You can run, but ya cain't hide, ya mule-eared pile of cow chips.

In the meantime, I will be missing every important date in my life. My advance apologies to dentists/doctors, and all people with birthdays.

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:55 PM

The Monday Meeting

Good morning, y'all! Pour yourself a cup of coffee and join me out here on the deck. It's a bit dreary, but there's a breeze!

Let's catch up.

We spent the weekend with King Pen's parents in Luzianne. We played hard, the kids were dirty little puppies all weekend. It's so nice to see them living it up in the country... it makes the 5 1/2 hour drive worth it. We attended my niece's baptism on Sunday, and a celebratory feast afterwards. It was lovely! (Thanks, Amy & Aaron!) We stopped off to meet my folks on the drive home, and they took Czarina, HeroBoy, and the Duke until Tuesday. So, it's just me and Chipmunk today. We have plans, oh yes we do. Plans to clean, and shop, and tickle! It'll be nice.

What else? Chipmunk got FOUR teeth yesterday. Really. There was one little tooth poking through on the top, and an hour later, there were four. Surprisingly, he was in a great mood! Easiest teething ever. But WAH!!! I am NOT ready! He's our last bebe, as far as we're planning, and every milestone is bittersweet for me. It's sad to leave the baby years behind, ya know? -sniff- I don't wanna talk about it anymore.

*composing myself

In other news, Dumbledore is not gay. She just said that for attention. He's not, he's not, he's not.

Moving on.

So, in preparation for Thanksgiving, Martha Stewart has an article on brining your turkey before roasting it. Anybody do that? Does it make a big difference? I'm all for trying it this year. I like turkey, but it's so dry. Maybe this would help.

Also, it looks like it's time to stop washing my hair with shampoo. I've been saying I was just waiting for it to get cooler... and now I've talked myself into a corner. It's cooler. And now I've got to walk the walk. *gulp

I'll be blogging it, of course. Because if I am going to have gross hair for six weeks, I want you to share my pain. It's the least you can do. Also, try not to stare at my turban during week two. And when I finally reach that hair nirvana, when my locks are shiny and fluffy and beautiful, give a sister a high five, won't ya? Then it's your turn.

Okay, I'm gonna get started on my day. I'll upload my pics from the weekend sometime later... so you can see just how dirty my kids were, and how clean my hair was, one last time.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:47 AM

October 17, 2007

Sundries

Bad things happen at my house when you don't wash clothes for four days.

No, I'm not on strike. (That hasn't happened since the Incident of '04. Don't even ask.) No, it's our washing machine. It stopped spinning on Saturday, and King Pen has been hard at work on it, but no luck so far. So, we're off to the laundry mat today. The situation is dire. There are dirty clothes everywhere, and clean clothes no where! Czarina has to wear her ballet suit today. HeroBoy is in his halloween costume. I'm wearing an old bridesmaid's dress. The Duke is in pjs, and Chipmunk... well, I'm just glad it's a warm day, 'cause he has to go naked. I sure hope DCFS doesn't happen by our menagerie today... I'd have some 'splaining to do.

In other news, I had to borrow the proverbial cup of sugar from the neighbors this morning. I stumbled to the coffee pot and put my Starbucks beans to work, only to remember afterwards that I was totally out of sugar. I was not a happy camper. I really needed it, superbad. I'm not ashamed to admit it, cause now they say it's healthy for you. Anyway, sugar is a must for me, so off I send my little courier, complete with bedhead and slippers. Thank goodness for lovely neighbors! Yay for furthering an ancient tradition! And whoohoo for coffee!! (Maybe that's enough for WonderGirl, yeah?)

Also to do today... buy diapers, sugar (!), and go pay the electric bill. I know, it's exciting, isn't it? Please, don't be so jealous. Maybe one day you, too, can live the life of a highroller like me. It'll happen, just be patient. Until then, you can live vicariously through me.

Well, I should get started. This fun won't have itself! Have a good day everybody, and I'll catch you later.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:37 AM

October 15, 2007

New Category

My recipe posts have been all helter-skelter, so I've created a new category, "Feed Me, Seymour" to save them to, just as a 411.

Yous welcome.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:12 AM

October 14, 2007

I love You.... ca.

Saturday night, we had the pleasure of dining with our next door neighbors, Michelle and Germán, who hail from Peru. Michelle, whose name I had trouble with way-back-when, has since become a good friend of mine. She stays at home with her two boys, and they are big buddies with my own crew. We've got a good thing going in da 'hood. Anyway, they invited us over for some authentic Peruvian food, and I became acquainted with my new very best friend, the yuca root. She sliced it, fried it, and served it with a spicy chili dip, like so:

I think I momentarily passed out from sheer delight after the first bite. It's like french fries on steroids. It's so good, I had to resist the urge to get in the car and drive five hundred miles just to slap my mama. (Sorry, WonderMom. It's just a saying. A cruel, heartless saying that I have no business using.) I am almost frantically craving it right this instant just typing the word YUCA. I want to marry it, buy a house in the 'burbs, have little yuca babies... and then eat them all.

Okay, yeah. That's messed up. Perhaps this is one of those instances when using the "backspace" key would be wise. But I do so enjoy being inflammatory.

Anyway, we had several other dishes, but it was hard to stay focused on them when all I could think about was more sweet, sweet yuca. We drank pisco sour, a grape brandy with lime and egg white, which tasted like a very smooth margarita to me. We listened to some native tunes, talked about American/Peruvian culture and politics, drank wine when we ran out of pisco sour, and yes, gossiped just a WEE bit about the goings on in the neighborhood. Tsk. Anyway, it was lovely. And after we said goodnight, we were two steps from home! That rocked. I love not getting DUI's.

Next time, we're returning the favor and having them over for a traditional Louisiana meal. Although, that fried yuca will be a hard act to follow. I don't know if my gumbo can face that kind of competition.

So that's what we did this weekend. You?

Posted by WonderGirl at 5:56 PM

October 11, 2007

Good Morning, Moon

I'm trying to love my early morning run, I really am. And it is nice to see the moon wrapping up the night shift, getting ready to go off duty. To see the sun mosey in for the changing of the guards.

But 5:45? Eek. It's tough! I've managed to stumble out the door, bleary-eyed and kinda cranky, several times this week, though. It's that or nothing, there's just no other time to go. And there's only so much "give" in my stretch denim jeans! It's time to take action. My ankle has finally healed up enough to get back into gear, so here we go. And not a minute too soon. I refuse to relinquish my best pair of American Eagle jeans, even if they DO have a hole in the knee. That hole is cool, and you can't convince me otherwise, so don't even try, Ma.

And in this whole new better me revolution, I also decided to cut back on the Diet Dr. Pepper's. Let's observe a moment of silence. I'll admit, my addiction had gotten way out of hand. I can't even tell you how many I was drinking. It was unnatural. There really should have been an intervention of some sort. Where were you people? Don't you care about me? Didn't you see that I had a problem? STOP ENABLING ME! Ha.

Hm. I'm kind of delirious tonight. I think because I am just wiped. I've been so "on" this week-- I've been doing all kinds of stuff with the house and kids and I'm fried- fuh-RYED. As a matter of fact, I'm gonna hit the hay right this minute. It's done time.

I'm shutting up now, sorry.

Hope you have a good night- and I'll hop on here in the morning, after my cuppa. Sweet dreams, butter beans.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:17 PM

October 10, 2007

A Fine How Do You Do

The alarm went off this morning as usual, but apparently King Pen was a little more out of it than normal. 'Cause he mistook me for the snooze button, and whacked me right on the forehead! Lucky for him, I have a keen sense of humor, even semiconscious, and found it hilarious. This time. I can't guarantee I'll laugh so hard tomorrow morning, though. I'd hate to have to lay the smack down on the fella before we've even had coffee, but I'll do what's necessary! Ha!

More later. Must take out the garbage now.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:17 AM

October 8, 2007

Value Voters Debate

So you have no idea who he is? I didn't either, till King Pen told me about the grassroots movement and how Ron Paul is sweeping the internet community right now. I'm telling you, this guy appeals to people-- and it's easy to see why. Here, see for yourself.

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:45 PM

Hope for America?

Ron Paul ... discuss.

I think I really like this guy. For one, he wants to do away with the IRS! A man after my own heart. However, it is unfortunate that every time I hear his name, I think of this:

Not the best name association for a presidential candidate, still, I likes the guy.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:00 AM

October 7, 2007

Living Vine

I wish every mother I know could have been with me at church the last few weeks. I have never been so encouraged, so admonished, so certain that my pastor must be reading my diary. Kidding. Honestly though, the sermons lately have been so overwhelmingly relevant to my life, to where I am right now, that it's spooky. He's been doing a series on the family, and of course, I've paid extra attention to the part about mothers/wives. And to be honest, I think I'd started to forget, or maybe I never fully comprehended, just how important my job is. Just how vital and high a calling I have as a mother.

There is nothing more important, no greater deed to accomplish, than doing this job well. Wow. Let that one soak in. It doesn't mean that a woman can't excel in the professional world, because obviously we can. (Cause we rock.) But, the cost is too great if it means domestic failure. There is no more noble, valuable, respectable, honor-deserving job than the one I am doing right now. I don't have to prove myself in any other thing, I don't have to have the world's validation, I don't have to make a name for myself, I don't have to distinguish myself from my role of wife and mother. Am I more than that? Of course I am. But even what small thing I contribute to the world at large is still tiny in comparison to what I am building in these four walls. What is more consequential- being a few things to all people, or all things to a few people? I may write a book, that thousands of people read, and are affected by for an hour. But in comparison to the affect I have on the four lives of my children, which is twenty-four hours a day, every day, every month, every year... which is the greater contribution? Who do I impact more? Which one of these must I excel at, which depends on my success the most?

It doesn't mean I don't want to have more definition to my life than that of wife/mother-- I do. But it is the lesser need, the lesser calling. That's not a popular concept in our American culture. We're all about our individuality and self actualization, but that's not Biblical. We're to be servants, we're called to sacrifice, take up our cross. "For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?"--Mark 8:36. I don't want to garner the world's favor, which is ever so brief and fickle, at the cost of God's eternal pleasure. Sometimes that means putting aside some personal pursuits, being selfless. And you know what- that doesn't feel good. It wouldn't be sacrifice if it was giving up something that didn't matter. But that's what we're commanded to do. It's not that they are bad things - fishing isn't a bad thing, but Jesus commanded Simon and Andrew to leave it, and follow Him. Sometimes that's what it takes. Leave it, bury it, put it aside. And you will be honored for it, rewarded, if not in this present life, then most definitely in the next. Don't be so caught up in this moment and the daily sacrifice of motherhood that you can't see what comes after.

I don't know if you struggle with these kinds of things, but I'm willing to bet that if you stay at home with your kids, you do. We've forgotten what dignity there is in the dirty dishes. What honor is won in battling dust bunnies and soap scum. That with every household chore we do, we honor God, we model Christ to our children, we build our homes- and that is spiritual warfare. For every Christian home that remains intact, it is a strike against the foe. And we women are on the frontlines of that, everyday, armed with mops and brooms and hearts that serve. It may seem humorous, and it is, because we serve a God with a sense of humor. But it's true. Our hands further the kingdom, and our hearts preserve it.

We should believe that.

But we know it's about more than just those daily tasks. Anybody could do those- we could hire someone to come in and do all those things. It's about more than just the chores we do. It's about who we are, what we are, to our family, that makes motherhood so very meaningful, and makes us individually so important.

You are the living vine of your home, you grow and flourish in every nook and cranny. Your creativity and personality are a bouquet of colors, your breath is the sweet scent of the bloom, your body is the cool shade where they lay their heads... Your roots stabilize, your stems and branches protect and shield, even though you don't know it. You grow in and around everything, creating a rich, lush canopy that shelters and nourishes. Everything about you, yes YOU- you with your love of crossword puzzles, or mystery novels, or chamomile tea, or the color purple, or whatever those things are that make you YOU... those things matter. You matter. Everything about you creates a world for your family. Every nuance of who you are, every quirk, eccentricity- the songs you hum, the perfume you wear, the way you smile, the whole contour of your being... is completely and utterly meaningful. Like the vine, you send tendrils of yourself in every direction. You set the tone, your uniqueness grows a family that is special, different, distinct from any other in the whole world.

You don't just create a home, my sister. You are the home. And it is beautiful in their eyes.

That thought... wow. It fills a need in me, one that goes bonedeep, to feel needed and important... to know why I'm here and what God wants from me.

I hope it will do the same for you. If you want to listen to the series of sermons that inspired this post- go here. (Biblical Theology of the Family, Part 1) They're just incredible. Much of what I've said is straight from his sermons... good thing plagiarism isn't one of the seven deadly sins. Ha.

Now, I don't know about you, but I've gotta go call my momma and tell her I love 'er. Have a good one, folks.

Posted by WonderGirl at 2:36 PM

October 5, 2007

BlogRoll Call

Okay guys, although I am a diehard Bloglines fan and use it for all my blog surfing, I do want to maintain my blogroll for the sake of the masses. I've been updating my list over yonder, so give it a looksie. If I forgot you OR you want to be removed, or you have a blog I don't know about, shoot me an email. If there is an error, misspelling, whatever, please do direct your complaints here. (I'm kiddin'. I do care.)

Posted by WonderGirl at 2:32 PM

Wrapping It Up

Hullo Friday, you big hunka burning love. I'm happy to see you.

Our weekend is blissfully empty, and I think we need it. I'm looking forward to an unscheduled couple of days. I'd like to get to the library, go for a run, sleep in... everything I want to do and nothing I don't! Lovely! Maybe a tad unrealistic as well, but let a girl dream, yeah? Whatever we end up doing though, I am just glad we're not on the road or on the clock.

This week has been good, much less stressful due to implementing a few changes in our evenings. Here's what we're doing:

First, I planned all our meals for the week on a calendar. That way, I bought what I needed ahead of time, and I could start preparing it early in the day. By 5ish, dinner is cooked and waiting. At 5:30, I get the kids in the bathtub. While they are contained in one space! bathing, I put in the Bach cd, stick Chipmunk in the highchair with some Cheerios, and vacuum, sweep, pick up toys, and set the table. I get the kids cleaned and dressed and send them to straighten up their rooms while I get dinner on the table, and feed Chipmunk. At 6:20, King Pen walks through the door to a surprisingly calm household, and we sit down to eat. Afterwards, we clean up, sombody bathes Chipmunk, and then we spend some family time together... play a game, read a book, something quiet. It's been FABULOUS. I'm SO glad to find a solution to what had become a rather hectic, unenjoyable battle. I have to link to this post (thanks for passing it along, Moriah!!) for the motivation to get our evenings together. It's made a huge difference in our week.

Well, I don't have much else to add at the moment - I need to get lunch made for the kidlings. Hope you all enjoy your weekend, and I'll blog ya later.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:25 AM

October 4, 2007

Midmorning Musings

First off... why is my computer so slow today? Anyone? It's sluggish. I sure hope it's the 'internets' acting up and not my laptop. I will seriously have a conniption fit if this thing breaks on me again. And that won't be pretty, my friends. Not pretty at all. There will be stamping of the feet and breaking of the china.

Secondly... have you seen Ikea's 2008 catalog? I got mine in the mail the other day, and I have been drooling over it ever since. -Sigh- I usually avoid window shopping, because it makes me cranky. But I couldn't help myself. And now I want stuff. Lots of it. So last night, I did what all good poor people do, I prayed to win the lottery. We'll see how that works out. Maybe if I pick some ecclesiastical numbers, God would go for it. I know I could work in John 3:16. The 23rd Psalm. Proverbs 31.

Yeah, I'm thinking not, too. But you never know unless you ask, right?

We made our play-dough yesterday. And sweet fancy moses- my arm actually hurt from stirring that stuff! I had no idea it was so labor intensive. Well, it's not really, but it is pretty thick, and I am pretty much a weakling these days. We had no food coloring, so they had to settle for white, which worked out okay. They're pretending to be bakers since it looks like bread dough. It does not, however, taste like bread dough. Ack. (Yes, I did it. It was gross. I can't recommend it.)

All for now, my dearies. I'll hop on later, after I get a jump on the day.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:36 AM

October 3, 2007

Captain Caffeine

Top o'the morning to ya, laddies! How are we today? Everybody up and ready to go? I'm working that second cup of joe, and it's got my brain buzzed up a bit. (That's a disclaimer for the rest of this haphazard post.)

I went to bed last night with the most ferocious neck and headache, but it is mercifully gone this morning. I slept so good- it was one of those that even as I was sleeping, I knew how good it was. I'm in the middle of a dream, during which I find out quite suddenly that I am pregnant again- (AHHHH!!), and I have a little sidenote... Hey, I am sleeping GREAT!! Oh yeah, oh yeah... then I realize I am now having my fifth baby and I'm back to crazy dreaming again.

Rambling on.

Today should be pleasant. Yesterday was a bit wild, but today, we're back to normal schedule. I'm introducing some new elements to our life that are hopefully going to smooth out some of the normal, daily chaos. It seems lately that the kids are getting wilder. Less still. More rabidly raccoon-like. That's to be expected because they're getting older... but I still need to be able to control the situation. I don't mind them playing, but there are moments that need to be peaceful and enjoyable for everybody, kids and grownups alike. We're going to try transitioning them to some activities that are quieter, calmer, at certain points of the day. We'll see how that goes. It's hard to play Candyland with wild monkey-children.

Good stuff for the day- Bionic Woman comes on again tonight, so that's something nice to look forward to. (You know I can't pass up a genetically or robotically enhanced femme fatale/ government agent show! Boy, do the networks have me pegged!) Also, it's play-do day! We're making our own in school, and the kids have been eager for it all week. Excellent photo op. I've been so lax about pictures lately... gotta be better about it. Now that the weather is getting cooler, I plan to take some good Fall shots, too. Oh the plans I have!

But I can't get to any of that if I sit here much longer in my pjs. I'll hop on later, minus my pink fuzzy slippers, and check in with all you guys then. Hope you all have a lovely Wednesday!

*I am not going to refill my coffee cup. Nope. Not gunna do it. Well, maybe I'll just top it off... just to warm it back up.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:49 AM

October 1, 2007

With Cream and Two Sugars

Good morning!! Just thought I'd throw that out there, since I could!! Aaahh... coffee and internet access. Best way to start out the day!

So, today's To Do List:

Bake bread.
Prepare babyshower gift and game.
Sewing project.
Schooling.
Make a few phonecalls.

Plus, just the general housework of the day and whatnot. So, a busy day, but a good one. I just LOVE the smell of homemade bread throughout the day. The recipe I use makes three loaves, so I keep one, freeze one, and give one away. It's a good system.

I have realized lately that I've got to kick up my organizational skills. I keep missing birthdays and important dates, and I hate that. I need a good wall calendar. Plus, I need to do something to make our evenings smoother. Dinner is the hardest part of the day for us, but I want it to be the nicest, since it's the one meal we share with King Pen. As soon as he walks through the door, it's chaos until the last kiddo is in bed. I have to figure out how to reduce the stress for that 2 hour period. I have been letting the kids play outside too late, I think. I need to get them inside and bathed before dinner- that would help.

Anyway... just thinking out loud.

Okay, my coffee is cold, and it's time to get to the day. Take it easy, cheesy. I'll blog lata.

Posted by WonderGirl at 8:13 AM

September 30, 2007

Updatery

Oh the luxury of blogging! Right this instant, when I want to! I will not be taking this for granted anytime soon, I can tell you that.

So now that I have this unlimited freedom to write again, I am not sure where to begin. Maybe a rundown of the weekend? Yeah, let's start there. Friday, one of King Pen's coworkers volunteered to watch the kids for a few hours so we could go out. You can bet your sweet patootie that when somebody offers to give us a night out, we are sure gonna take it. So we got the house tidy, kids fed and bathed, kissed 'em goodnight, and we hit the bowling alley. I can't even REMEMBER the last time I bowled. Sadly, that was evident on the scoreboard. But, I had fun, and King Pen was finally able to put to use that "lesson" they had when he was homeschooled and the professional bowler came to speak. Ah, the joys of choosing your own curriculum! Ha!

After bowling, we tore up a pool table ... oh, who am I kidding. We didn't tear it up. We didn't rock it. We didn't it set it on fire, either. I'm not even sure it was aware we were playing on it at all. But fun was had, and that's the important thing. Yup.

Then, Saturday morning, the kids had a birthday party to attend. They jumped themselves silly on a big, bouncy choochoo train, and ate cake shaped like a bass fish. Only in Alabama, people. We wrapped up the day with a trip to the grocery store, a jaunt to the creek, and some hot, homebaked empanadas from our Peruvian neighbors. It was a good day.

We had to be at church early today because Czarina's choir sang in the service, so that made things interesting. Sunday mornings are a madhouse around here, but we managed to get there on time. Miracles DO happen.

After church is over every Sunday, we all usually hang around talking for a while, visiting. I was chatting with a friend, and there was a pause in the conversation. She looked out at the crowd and sighed happily. "I just love this church," she said. And I knew exactly how she felt. I've been in a lot of good churches, where the teaching is solid and the people are nice. But this place... it's hard to explain. There is genuine love for each other, and love for Christ's church as a whole. It's a tangible thing that you can see enacted in their lives every week. And the preaching- it's honest. That may seem like a small thing to say, but in this day and age, honest preaching is rare. Strong. Life altering. Satiating. And when it falls on receptive ears... wow. I love to see pulpit truths rippling out through the lives of the congregation. It's a beautiful thing.

Besides all those good things, the fact is, there are just a lot of intelligent, funny, friendly, and interesting people in our church- people I really want to be around. Friends, that feel like family. I don't mean to go on and on about it, but it's a real blessing to have that in my life. I am genuinely happy to be in this church on Sundays, worshipping with these people. I look forward to it every week.

So that was a bit off topic, but oh well!

This week, I am hoping to be very slightly more productive than normal. (Hah) Besides schooling, I'd like to take dinner over to a neighbor who just had a baby, I need to get some sewing done, a baby shower to attend, and some other odds and ends I've been meaning to get around to. I'd LOVE to go running, too, if my ankle will allow. I sorta turned it again bowling the other night-- grrr-- so we'll see. I am going to be bizzay.

Well, my evening is winding down, still a few things to get to before I turn in tonight. Just wanted to get a running start on my blog, hit the updates so I can get to actual blogging tomorrow... I am SOOOO THRILLED to be back in the saddle again!

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:53 PM

September 29, 2007

Unbelievable.

Lest you think me fickle, dear readers, let me assure you that I have not given up blogging. As soon as I hit the "post" button for that last entry, POOF. I think smoke actually came out of my keyboard. So, back to the computer shop, and one new keyboard later, here we are. I've had to replace two components of this laptop in the last two months - which is irritating and kind of expensive, but what really got my goat was not being able to blog about it!! Nobody had any idea what happened to me there for a few weeks. Bah. But it's really truly fixed now, and I can write to my heart's content!! (Until the monitor falls off or something, which should happen in 5-4-3-2... NOW. Ha.)

Anyway, I know you're all watching your Saturday morning cartoons and eating Chocolate Rice Krispies, so I'll let you get back to it. I'll hop on again in a bit. For now, I have a month's worth of emails and blogs to catch up on!!

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:17 AM

September 19, 2007

Hey Stranger!

Back! Bless my soul, I'm back again.

The computer was salvagable, and it only cost the price of a small tropical island! Well, no, not really. But all we've poured into this laptop over the last few years could definitely have gotten us at least a timeshare. We've got to get a new computer one of these days. It's on the "to buy" list. Who knows when, but that's okay. I still have to buy that pony that's been on the list since third grade. All in good time. Right now, I've bumped a couch up to the top of the list. Ugh, the couch. It's basically two springs and a collection of scary stains at the moment. It's been through a lot, the poor dear. Don't lift the slipcover, seriously. It's traumatic.

Anyway, let's take a moment and let the joy sink in, that I have internet again!! Yippee Skippy!! Although, I'll admit, there was a certain liberation in being unavailable there for a while. I got a lot done! Baking homemade bread, keeping up on the laundry, etc. It did help me break my addiction, which was perhaps a bit excessive. It's all about balance, people. Balance.

But still.

Yippee!!

Now, to gather up my scattered audience again. Oh readers, where are you? Here, readers, readers... I've got a nice tasty blog for you...

Well, I'm going to let you all get to your business for the day, and I'm going to get to mine. Let's meet up later, huh? We can take our breaks at the same time. I'll meet you out back, and we can talk about the boss, and gripe about our salaries.

Have a good 'un.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:41 AM

September 16, 2007

Is This Thing On?

A few moments to write, and I don't know where to begin! So much has been going on lately, relatively speaking. We're busy, but it's more than that. A lot of rearranging in my head. Taking stock of things, getting my priorities straight, and all that rigamaroll.

I miss blogging. An upside though, my journal is fuller than it's ever been. I'm not really keen on the pen and paper thing, because I am too fond of my backspace key, but it's nice to see blank pages filling up. Besides writing journal style, I've been thinking about writing in general. Organizing some ideas in my head, figuring out what I want to say and why. I think that's my biggest hang-up at times. What worthwhile thing do I have to convey? It's there, I know it, it's just a matter of grabbing hold of it and giving it a good shake.

Czarina is seven today. She's such a beautiful person... She's kindhearted and gentle, goofy, but bright. She has an emotional sensitivity to others far beyond her years. I've never known a kid with a bigger heart. I'm so proud of her and who she is. I thank God for this day seven years ago when she came into my life and changed it forever.

More to say, more life to share with you guys and the clock ticktocks. -sigh- You only get an hour at the library, and that doesn't go very far. In computer news, it's at the shop, and we await the verdict. Could go either way. I need it to go the good way, so keep your fingers crossed, yeah?

Onward.

Some wonderful news- I'm happy to report that God has been merciful to my brother and he is not going to jail. This is HUGE. He's going into a longterm treatment program, and this time, he's going in with a motivation unlike any he's had before - fatherhood. There is nothing quite like knowing you're going to be a parent to open your eyes. Pray for him, that as wonderful a motivation as parenthood is, that ultimately he will depend on God alone for strength. It was miraculous that he wasn't incarcerated, seriously - and I know God isn't done with him yet.

Okay, what more? I have this checklist in my head of things to blog about, but I'm forgetting them left and right.

Britney Spears- poor gal. But I'm too late for that train, huh? You're all over it. I missed my chance. Luckily, I'm sure she'll provide me another opportunity pretty soon.

Congrats out to my sil, who just had their third child, Layla. How cute a name is that? Happy for you, Amy. Can't wait to see her. Hope you're feeling better by the minute.

Oh, and hey, I turned 32 on the eleventh. I recieved special gifts from each of the kids, which was cute. I haven't decided where to put the dollsized tea set yet, but I know it will come to me soon. They were all very sweet, and Czarina called me "the birthday girl" all day, which was fun.

We're going to Vburg for my cousin's wedding this next weekend. Congrats Laura and Adam! There's also something else going on that I can't be specific about, but it could mean some changes for casa de Wondergirl. How's that for vague and enigmatic? I know, you hate me. I'll reveal once I have the green light on that one. Anyway, this means a roadtrip, which means I'll spend most of the week trying to keep the laundry under control and all the kids injury/disease free. Duct-tape, that's all I have to say.

Egads, six minutes left! Boo.

Okay, I guess on that, I should end. I'll try and write again soon, but you know how it goes. Just look for me when you see me coming.

Have a lovely week everyone, and enjoy the first signs of Fall. (Really, especially if you live in the South, because you know it's going to be over by Thursday.)

Posted by WonderGirl at 3:30 PM

September 7, 2007

Goodbye Mr. Internets

Well, it finally happened. Our computer gave up the ghost. It's been in poor health for some time now, and I can't say it wasn't expected. It was unexpected however, that we were written out of the will entirely, and everything was left to the dang MOUSE. Son of a gun. Oh well.

So, this leads me to a very sad announcement. The Sift will be temporarily shut down, while I go dig around in some dumpsters for computer parts. I know, I know. I'm in mourning, too. It's horrible. I don't know what I'll do without my blog. By the time I finally get back online, the party will have ended and you'll all be gone. Wah. I'll be drinkin' alone. And that's just sad.

Looks like the soonest we can get another computer attempt to fix the laptop will be sometime in late October. So till then, it will be sporadic email checking at the library, and maybe the occasional blog post if I'm lucky.

-sniff- Be brave, WonderGirl. Be brave.

I'll miss you guys. Check back occasionally over the next few weeks to see if I'm back online, and if I'm not, then send out a search party. I'm probably laying in a ditch somewhere with no sweater and no internet access. I'll have fallen, and can't get up. I needs hep'.

Take care, enjoy the fall, and call me. I enjoy human contact.

Posted by WonderGirl at 4:55 PM

September 5, 2007

Still Pasting Spaces

Love that title.

Okay, remember I was having keyboard trouble? Yeah. Still. We're working on it, but in the meantime, I'm having to cut, copy, and paste a space between every SINGLE word. Grrrr, I say.

It really sucks the joy out of blogging or emailing! And it takes about four times as long. But, the end is in sight, and I'll be back to regular writing soon. Thank goodness, because this royally STINKS. I wanna just hop on here and go to, ya know? I've got gobs of stuff to say!

Anyway, bear with me a little while longer, and I'll get back on track, mmkay?

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:08 AM

September 3, 2007

Master Plan

So, I go out of town for twenty-four hours and guess what my six month old does? He pulls up to a standing position at the couch. That should be months away, folks!

I'm convinced this kid has an agenda. And I think he's secretly coordinating the other children, too. It would explain the "Handbook of Clandestine Organizations" I found the other day. Something's up, I'm sure of it.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:21 AM

September 2, 2007

Back!

... water-logged, dead-tired, and mucho-happy.

Will blog tomorree.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:00 PM

August 30, 2007

Reporting For Duty

Hello from the ends of the earth! Been wondering 'bout old WonderGirl? Well, I can't tell you where I've been, because then I'd have to kill you, but I will say that once again, all is well in Metropolis. Oh, you didn't even know the world was in danger? Good. That means I'm upholding the secret superhero code. Yay me! I think I'll ask for a raise. I'm really overdue.

So, seriously? I needed a break. Had some things to take care of, and they required my full attention. You know how that goes, yeah? Sometimes you have to let everything else drop and make sure you're taking care of what's important. I needed time to count clouds, count blessings, count the days. But I'm back now, all is well, and I'm ready to take my place in the world.

So, what have you guys been up to? Any monkey business I should know about in my absence?

I'll do the quick update from my end: King Pen and I are headed up to Chattanooga this weekend, and going whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River. Whoo! It was supposed to be a surprise for him, but I am TERRIBLE at that. I completely spilled the beans. Anyway, it should be loads of fun! I am starting school with Czarina and HeroBoy on Tuesday. Still making slings, but haven't started selling yet, and I baked totally homemade bread the other day. Reading Wise Blood by Flannery O'Connor, Chipmunk is crawling and sitting up alone, and now sharing a room with big sis. It's hot here, ready for Fall, planning some trips back home in September, and thankful, oh so thankful for all the good things God has brought into my life.

A little scattered, but that's the jist of it.

I'm happy to be back, guys. Thanks for popping back in on me to see if I'd made it home okay. I'm here, and ready for livin'. I predict lots of good blogging to come, because I'm recharged and refocused! Good stuff ahead.

Posted by WonderGirl at 2:05 PM

August 19, 2007

Hiatus

Taking a few days off, guys... blog on without me!

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:17 AM

August 16, 2007

I Was Up Till Midnight With Harry Potter

---I feel sorta weird for that title.---

Anyway, it's done. Finished it.

and....SPOILER

Continue reading "I Was Up Till Midnight With Harry Potter"

Posted by WonderGirl at 4:04 PM

August 15, 2007

Wordelicious

"Scattered." It delights the tongue.

Another one... "sizzle". Dang, that's a good word!

Yours?

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:01 PM

Hook

One more then I'm done.

I just got spam from "daffy jitendra" with a subject "and then you look left". You don't know how intrigued I am. Spammers are geniuses. Of course, I know it's just an offer for Viagra or something, but still. They got my ticket.

I do wish I had a friend named Daffy. And I am just dying to know what's to the left of me.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:04 AM

Randomables.

This is not me blogging. Because I have other stuff I have to do this morning. This is me... uh... organizing my thoughts for the day. Yeah.

Anyway. Wanted to share my latest internet obsession, Pandora. It's an internet radio station that you customize. You choose a song, and they will play similar songs to it. If you like it, you give it a thumbs up, and you get more of the same. If you don't like it, they hunt you up another one. It rocks. Quite literally.

So, I'm a hundred pages into Harry Potter... what a daunting book! With four kids, finishing a book of that size is a job. But it's not like I have a choice, I mean, it's Harry Potter. Gotta read it. So basically, I take several LONG baths a day, to get in all my reading time. (Shut up, you know you do it, too.) I have been covering my ears and eyes ever since it came out so that I wouldn't learn the ending before I'd read it ... so I'm glad to finally get my hands on a copy. Yay Dad! He's my book dealer. He hooks me up. The first book was free... but after that, he started charging me. Must be in the "Pusher Handbook". Anyway.

In other news, I am still carless. No, not careless. I take great care, as usual. Nope, carless, as in, sans wheels. Not that I was going to go anywhere, but I don't like my options taken away, ya know? Thank goodness we have two cars though. We'd be in a fix if King Pen couldn't get to work. Hopefully tomorrow it'll be ready and we can get back to a busy day of not getting out in this heat! Guh.

Onward.

Czarina is going to be seven in a month. She's starting to lose that squeeky kid voice, and getting her big girl voice. She makes small talk on the phone now, she carries a purse, and she tried to wear gogo boots with a pair of too-short shorts yesterday. Oh no you don't, I said, marching her back into her room to change. I blame the Bratz for that particular outfit. (Not that she's allowed to play with 'em.) She's killing me though, gettin' grown like this. It's going to break my heart. (She was happy to wear jeans with the boots, by the way. She wanted to wear boots like Dad. It was just funny to have to make her change.)

Chipmunk got two teeth, and had his first dinner last night. He was very serious about it, and licked his lips for about an hour afterwards. He loved it.

The Duke is halfway between baby and boy. He is snuggled up to me right now with his "bink" (the blanket) and sucking his thumb, but watching PowerRangers. -sigh- So big and little at the same time.

HeroBoy is totally geared up for school and asks everyday when we are going to start. (After Labor Day...forget this beginning of August business. That's crazy.)

Well, that's a synopsis of life over this way. More later, this spacebar issue is KILLING me... takes forever to type out an entry right now.

Posted by WonderGirl at 8:47 AM

August 13, 2007

I Heart Car Expenses. And Sarcasm.

Goodbye, five hundred bucks. Hello, new radiator.

-sigh-

Posted by WonderGirl at 4:28 PM

August 12, 2007

stuck

So,asyoucansee,thespacebarstoppedworkingonmylaptop.

Fooey.

Also,thenumbersix.

Ineedsix.

Ineedthespacebar.

-sigh-

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:10 AM

August 11, 2007

Let The Wind Blow

On the cusp of life again, when little ones fill the lonely corners of the day. They come home tomorrow, after a longer vacation than I had intended. It will be good to fill my arms with them again. I needed the break, I did, I admit it. But I will be oh so glad to have them home again! We will enjoy the last days of summer by staying cool and lazy... school is close, routine will be a welcome change, and this heat makes the Fall a worthy pursuit.

So I am good and happy, but always more than that.

I am in the eye of a hurricane of emotions today. I don't know that I can explain it, except that winds blow from all directions and sometimes I wonder if that's just how life is.

That's all I got for you today, folks. Go stay cool. I suggest iced tea and shady hammocks, a la Lazy Smurf...

Posted by WonderGirl at 6:22 PM

August 9, 2007

"Look at you, you have a baby!...In a bar."

Oh my. I have signed my life away to this business, guys. I didn't realize that was part of the deal. I'm just ready to get this end of it DONE so I can get on with things!!

Despite the massive time consumption it is right now, I am SO STOKED. The website is rocking along quite nicely. I've got people who want to get involved if needed, people who want to help me market it, people who want to buy one, etc etc. It's exciting, but a little overwhelming at the same time.

Anyway.

That's a big part of my life right now, and it's taken up a lot of my spare time. Hopefully, it will all settle down soon and I can get back to some semblence of normalcy.

Today, I'm on my way to Atlanta to PAR-TAY. Okay, no. That's not true. I am on my way to the ATL, but I won't be throwing down. I'm going to pick up some furniture and Chipmunk is coming with me. Nothing says wild and crazy like hittin' the clubs with your 5 month old! We'll be staying with my sister and I'm going to take some pics of her as a model for my website.

And uh... yeah, I'm so going to Ikea while I'm there. You don't think I could pass that opportunity up, do ya? Jealous? You know you are.

Well, I have a boatload of stuff to do, so I should get to it. Have a happy Thursday everybody. Stay cool! (Literally. It's dangerously hot out there. Hydrate.)

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:59 AM

August 8, 2007

Why No Blog, WG?

Rumors of my demise have been greatly exaggerated. I'm still around, yo. I've just been busy, lazy, stressed, bored, overwhelmed, a little bit drunk, out of the country, washing my hair, or one of these other excuses:

Spending more time with my blender.

Waiting for my karma transplant.

Building a pig from a kit.

Detecting a disturbance in the Force.

Going through cherry cheesecake withdrawal.

Pending my patent.

Waiting for the grunion to run.

Converting my calendar from Julian to Gregorian.

Touring China with a wok band.

Reading a book called "Glue in Many Lands" that I just can't put down.

Helping a friend fold road maps.

Trying to be less popular.

Being traded to Cincinnati.

Observing National Apathy Week.

Rotating my crops.

So you see, I have been extremely occupied as of late, and well, there you have it. I'm sure you understand. And now, I have to...uh... go... over there.

(aw, poor readers. So mistreated. I'll be back, I promise. Just taking a wee sabbatical... don't go too far!)

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:19 AM

August 6, 2007

Still Here

I'm still around guys, I've just been busy being busy and well, being lazy, too. More later! For now, I have a sick hubby to tend.

Posted by WonderGirl at 2:34 PM

August 1, 2007

You're Invited

Well, we're off to a rockin' start today. Yesterday's sprained ankle is indeed ugly. It's a little bigger than a tennis ball, which is something else considering my ankle is pretty scrawny to begin with. And sweet fancy moses, it hurts! I was really hoping I'd wake up this morning and it would be all better. I need it to be all better. -Sigh-

I was running around the track, and hit an uneven patch where the sidewalk intersects with the track, and I rolled right over my foot. I didn't fall, luckily, but I hit the ground nonetheless because of the pain. I sat there a few minutes, trying not to throw up! I was shocked! I finally collected myself enough to get back to the car, and very gingerly drove myself home, since it's my right foot I hurt.

Well, as it happened, our electricity was out because a transformer blew earlier in the day, and it was chaos coming home, and I forgot ALL about desperately needing some groceries for the next day. I elevated and iced my foot for the rest of the night, and poor King Pen had to do everything. I always feel terrible when that happens, because I know what a job it is handling all four of our precious angels. (!)

Anyway, so groceries were forgotten, until this morning, when the kids got up and we remembered there wasn't a poptart to be found, nor milk, nor juice, nor bread.

So, King Pen is late for work because he had to run to the store. I'm layed up on the couch, hurting and cranky. I took some tylenol, so that should kick in soon. But it's more about the inconvenience of it all. I need crutches, but I'll get along without them. Hopping on one foot isn't too bad because our apt. isn't huge. But I can't tote the baby. Czarina is going to have to do that for me. Erg. And the house is a wreck, and I had planned to wash laundry today because the kids are going with King Pen to his folks house tomorrow. I think I can get to most of it, at least the laundry, but it'll be tricky. And my sling biz will have to halt for a day or so, since this is my sewing foot. (Ha- that amuses me)

This is my upcoming (and extremely RARE) weekend to myself, to do various and sundry things, and it's looking pretty unfun at the moment.

But, before I send out formal invitations to my Pity Party, I am encouraged that it SHOULD start feeling better in a day or so, right? The healing time on a sprained ankle is pretty fast, from what I hear. Maybe no running for a week but if I can walk on it by the weekend, I'll be happy.

And, when you're laid up on the couch, at least there's nothing to do but work on the computer!! That ain't sounding so bad.

K, I'm off for a while to check my email and uh... yeah, just browse the net aimlessly.

More later!

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:13 AM

July 31, 2007

Yowza

I twisted my ankle while jogging today. Wah. Keeping my fingers crossed that it will feel better in the morning.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:52 PM

July 27, 2007

Space on the Rocks

Man, Nasa is the place to be on a Friday night nowadays, huh? They like to partay!

Posted by WonderGirl at 6:12 PM

July 25, 2007

Impatient Sandman

I passed the point of exhaustion about fifteen minutes ago. Now I'm in a full blown delirium. I think I'm actually writing this during a blackout. I'll have no recollection of it at all tomorrow morning.

I'm. so. tired.

Started out early with a speech evaluation for HeroBoy (7:30 am, people. What kind of whack society is this?). Then we met some folks at the zoo at 10:30, and stuck it out until the unholy hour of 3 pm. Five hours of zoo time is like thirty in normal time. We dragged ourselves in the door this afternoon, smelling like goats and duck food, and crashed out.

I worked on the text for my business site for the rest of the day, and now here I am at midnight, again, wondering just what in the blue blazes I'm still doing up. Somebody, pleaseeee- make me go to bed!

Good news though... my labels, and fabric are speeding their way to me as we speak. My website is gonna look AWESOME. I'm lining up models for a photo shoot (er, that would be with me as photographer, with my trusty canon powershot camera). I've got info on the business license, but holding off on that until something else resolves itself. I've got an assistant seamstress (shout out to my sister, Ashley the Fabulous). I've got "idears", big dreams, no time, lotsa anxiety, low funds, but a weird sense that this is all gonna work out just smashingly. (and I'm pretty sure I just invented that word. Blame it on the delirium.)

Anyway, I'm going to try not to let all this affect my frequency or quality of blogging, but that's a tall order. This part of it is just so time-consuming. Until I get it rolling, it's going to require a lot! I apologize in advance for the lame, disorganized and probably sporadic blogging ahead. Can we still be friends if I don't write every single day? Or is your love for me conditional and superficial?

Of course it isn't. This is real love, baby. And I can tell because you are STILL reading this mundane entry.

Okay, I gotta get. Or I'm gonna keel over right here and now. Have a happy... uh... middle of the night. I'll see you in the a.m.

Posted by WonderGirl at 1:21 AM

July 22, 2007

Where's The Dang Pause Button?

I saw this movie once as a kid about a magic stopwatch that paused time. You just click it, and everything freezes but you. (I can't remember the name of that movie, to my eternal irritation!)

Anyway, I need to get me one of them doohickies.

There are so many things I want to do, need to do and so little time to do them. But this is nothing new, is it? Everybody feels that way. I think back to my pre-kid days, and I wonder what the heck I did with my time! I think I slept a lot. I remember Saturdays, and I wasn't out of the bed before AT LEAST eleven o'clock - sometimes all the way till one in the afternoon. Why did I need that much sleep? I need sleep NOW. Not THEN!

Now, I can't even remember the last time I slept past eight o'clock. And I STILL can't manage to do all the things I'd like (and need) to do. Right now, the business is eating into most of my free time - and some of my not-so-free time, too. (Thank goodness for paperplates. Seriously.)

I hope that soon I can get a grip on things though- before school starts. I don't want to be so busy that I feel guilty for sitting down for more than five minutes! Life's too short, yeah? It's to the point that I am laying in bed trying to go to sleep, and all I can think of is my internal To-Do list. Driving me nuts!

But anyway.

Lots going on in the next few days. My aunt is in town for a visit. Chipmunk has a doctor's appointment and shots on Monday. (Boo.) Tuesday, HeroBoy has a speech therapy evaluation, and then we have a zoo picnic. Plus, gobs of sewing and website design and whatnot, plus helping a distant relative with some genealogy research. AND sometime or another, I've got to start getting my homeschool stuff together. I mentioned to King Pen the other day, that I am feeling the need for a solo weekend pretty soon to tackle some of these tasks. He'll probably take El Kiddos to his mom's house so I can knock it all out sometime in the next month. It's just so hard to stay focused when all these knuckleheads are running around! Love em, but they are masters of distraction (and destruction for that matter).

Well, I'm wiped. I'm turning in before I fall asleep on the keyboard. Have a good night, all.

PS- I'll get to those pictures I've been promising everybody tomorrow, I promise. I haven't forgotten!

Posted by WonderGirl at 5:59 PM

July 17, 2007

Mama Said Knock You Out

Why, oh why, do these things never happen during normal business hours? Tonight, HeroBoy managed to knock his front tooth (not a permanent one) loose with a backpack. Yeah, I don't know how that's possible, either. If there's a way to damage yourself with a lightweight sack filled with nothing, he'll be the one to do it. After much discussion, we decided there was nothing we could do until the morning. We don't have an afterhours dental service, and since it's a baby tooth and still attached, we thought as long as it's seen within 24 hours, it would be okay. I hope that was the right decision. Anyway, it's still there, just displaced and pitiful looking. His gums are bruised and bled a lot, so I am hoping he didn't do some serious damage in there. I will feel much better after an x-ray. I also really hope it doesn't blacken his tooth! Sometimes, if you traumatize a tooth, it will do that. Wah. I don't want to lose that impish grin of his! It makes me wanna cry. I hope they can do something for him. He's got a lot of years left in that tooth, and right now it's quite crooked and potentially blackened. -sniff- Guess if that happens, then we'll have to get some bling for his grill. Might as well be stylin'.

I didn't write much today, because I was busy working on slings, and organizing a gajillion boxes of baby clothes. I'm about to turn in now, since I plan on getting up early for a run. Hm. We'll see how that turns out. I can sure talk myself out of it real quick at 6 a.m. Shame.

Oh, and by the way... my brother has an important hearing Wednesday at 10 a.m. Please pray for him, his wife, and my parents at that time. I know they'll need the peace. I'll write an update on that after the hearing.

Mkay. WG out.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:57 PM

July 16, 2007

Put Our Service to the Test

Yesterday we had dinner guests after church. Dolly and Ethan, and their two kidlings, Ruthie and Chandler. We had a great time! The children all played nicely together, we had pleasant adult conversation (quite the treat, I assure you!) and I got to set a pretty table, using my tablecloth and all that. Being a hostess is so gratifying! Anyway, I love reading other people's dinner menus, so I'll share mine for all you nosy folks out there.

Caribbean Jerk Chicken (chicken, potatoes, and sausage in it. Spicy!)
Honey-Glazed Carrots,
Toasted Walnut Salad (spring mix, romaine lettuce, mandarin oranges, redwine dressing & the best crunchy topping ever!)
French Bread
Wine & Sweet tea

Then for dessert we had coffee and Strawberry Shortcake.

It was delicious! And yes, I wore my crown. Jealous, aren't you?

Next time, you can come, I promise. And there will be a tiara with your name on it. No joke.

Okay, got stuff to get to this morning. Y'all have a good day, and I'll post lata.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:34 AM

July 12, 2007

Replay

Can someone please tell me why The Mummy is constantly on? Sometimes it's The Scorpion King, but mostly The Mummy. Con-stant-ly. I mean, I like Brendan Frasier and all, but pul-lease! We're over it! Let's move on with our lives.

Posted by WonderGirl at 5:41 PM

Voluble

Good morning all! How are you? I am fabulous. I am so happy to be checking my email and bloglist over my cup o'joe that I could just expire. How sad is that? It's like I won the lottery.

So, I mentioned last night that we've got strep throat around here. Well, everyone who has it is medicated, and so far I haven't seen any signs in anybody else, so maybe we'll get lucky. We're feeling better, the sun is peeking through some clouds this morning (literally and figuratively), and I am ready to get back in the game again.

Which is good, because I think I put on five pounds this week in stress eating. A sore throat doesn't slow me down, no sirree. I'll puree those snicker bars if I need to. I've GOT to get myself back on the running track again! It's a lot harder to exercise these days than it was after my last pregnancy. Life is crazier with four kids than three. I'm not complaining, but holy mackerel, it's an uphill battle to get out of here in running shoes. I think I'm going to have to bite the bullet and start getting up at five and doing it before King Pen leaves for work. I'm just not one of those people, though. Guess I might need to BECOME one though. Just the thought of it makes me cranky.

Maybe things will get better after everyone is well again.

Anyway... what else?

I have soooo much to catch up on now that things are getting back to normal. The house is a wreck, laundry is piled sky high, and the kids all have cabin fever. Besides all the chores, I need to get them outside and run them around a bit. The library, the park, the pool- you name it, they need it. And though I feel better, I get a little tired just thinking of all that stuff!

I've decided we're going to start a strict regiment of vitamins/minerals/acupuncture once this is all over. It seems like we've been sick ever since Christmas with something or another! I'm ready for a well family again. And if I have to poke 'em with needles to make it happen, well, that's what I'll do. I'm sure it'll be a big hit. I bet they get sick a lot less. Ha!

Well, I'm rambling a bit, do forgive. Just happy to be back! I'll be on later - but now I need to tackle the job ahead of me. Have a good day everybody.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:20 AM

July 11, 2007

Long Lost WG

Oh yippie! I'm back, I'm back, I'm back! And it only cost me an arm and a leg. (And a kidney. Thank goodness for the black market. My liver is gonna put my kids through college!)

So, didja miss me? C'mon, you know you did. Don't act all nonchalant. Aww, you're blushing! It's so cute. You missed me * You missed me* na na na nana na.

-contented sigh-

I am so unbelievably happy to be back online, with a computer that doesn't suffer from narcolepsy. What a treat! And just in time, too. I was beginning to worry for my sanity. We've had a rough couple of days. Strep throat dropped in on us expectedly, and didn't take our not-so-subtle hints to go the hell home. ('scuse me. A buck into the swear jar.) King Pen, HeroBoy, and I have it, and we're all taking antibiotics. Hopefully nobody else will come down with it, but I am not overly optimistic on that count. We're a kissy bunch. I'm sure the germs have made the rounds.

I want to do a proper update, but I am just too tired tonight. Strep really wears you down, and I need to get some rest tonight. I will write tomorrow, but just wanted to revel in internet connection for just a minute. Sweet dreams, butter beans. See you in the a.m.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:02 PM

July 8, 2007

A Thought Gumbo

I couldn't take it. I had to sneak off to the library to check my email, and my blog list.

I have a serious internet problem, I know. But let's not talk about that right now, mkay? You can stage an intervention at another time, but right now, just let me get my fix. I only have an hour on this computer, and I intend to make the most of it.

I sure hope my laptop is up and running again soon. Hopefully by the middle of the week, at the latest! I simply cannot function in this cyber vacuum.

Despite my painful wifi withdrawl, it's been a good weekend. Saturday was uber-productive. (Yeah, I said uber. And I'd say it again, too, because I am a nerd.) Got the house tip top, went grocery shopping, and checked out an estate sale down the street, where I made off with a lovely dining room table! I am giddy over this table. We finally have room to sit comfortably! It was so tight, we were about to have to start eating in shifts. So this was a good find, and at $15, it was impossible to pass up. It's a sturdy table, which is a must with boys hanging off of it all the time. (I sure wish King Pen would stop that. Ha.) Anyway. I almost slept on it last night, I was so happy. This would not be the first time I've slept on a table, but there's no way I'm telling that story in mixed company.

Onward.

We also got buckets of rain all day yesterday, which was wonderful. I love a rainy Saturday! The world looks much healthier today. Green and content.

What else? Ah! 30 minutes left. Let's speed this up a bit, shall we?

I am hunting a Harry Potter buddy to catch the new movie with me. Anyone? Anyone? Bueller?

My mom is in Honduras on a medical mission trip. Remember her this week, if you will. Their accomodations are very challenging, and last year there was a fly infestation that nearly drove her crazy. She'll be back Thursday, I think. If she remembers, she is supposed to bring me back some local fabric so that I can make another sling. (See, it's all about me, isn't it. Shameless.)

Tuesday, I have Girl's Night with the girls (duh) from church. We will be talking about a.) how gross boys are b.)how lame our parents are and c.)who in the choir stuffs their bra. Okay, no we won't. Well, maybe C.

Friday, I have another book club meeting, where we will be discussing Gilead. Yes, very intellectual of us, isn't it? Constantly improving our minds, we are. You never stop learning, I say. Nevermind the wine, that's totally irrelevent. This is strictly an academic gathering. Where there will be booze. And poker. Shut up.

Well, I'm outta time. Time to shut this party down. I hope you all have a swimmingly good week, and I will write again when I get the laptop back, or I have another breakdown and rush to the library for a quick fix.

Bye then. Take care.
Keep in touch, yeah?

OH HOW WILL I EVER GET THROUGH THE DAYS WITH NO INTERNET? WOE IS ME!

I'll be just fine. No big deal. LIES. ALL LIES.

Posted by WonderGirl at 3:05 PM

July 6, 2007

Gone for a Few

My lovelies, I have sad news. My computer is acting hinky, and it's going in the shop today. Hopefully, it won't be a major deal and I can get it back quickly. I'll admit, I get the shakes if I go too long without it.

In the meantime, I will be playing Katamari Damacy on playstation. It's not the internet, but it keeps the cold sweats at bay. Hope you all have a great weekend, and fingers crossed- I'll be back early next week.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:31 AM

July 2, 2007

Rain Dance

Rain, rain - don't go away!!

Every day, we have a teaser thundercloud roll in, make a little noise, and then leave again without so much as a howdy-do. It's disheartening.

It's curious, isn't it, how we long for rain even when it doesn't affect us much physically? I mean, I'm not a farmer. My cotton isn't suffering. I don't have much of a yard, so my grass is okay. My well's not dry, my car's not terribly dirty, and I've got plenty of drinking, washing, and bathing water.

But still, the drought gets to me.

I miss the smell of rain, the sound of it. I wish for puddles and splashes and umbrellas. We are creatures of water, dependent on it running into the soil beneath our feet, and past our lips into our earthly forms. We need rain in the most primal way. Without it, we are dead. When the skies are dry, I think the animal in us trembles.

(Ah, let no one say I am not melodramatic!)

Yesterday we had a quick downpour, and there was almost audible relief from the parched earth outside. Ahhhh... The dirt gulped it down and then it was gone - as if it'd never come at all. You could almost hear "more, more" from the trees and grass.

I'm considering an old fashioned Rain Dance. With spins and stomps and waving of the hands. Let the heavens open wide!

Posted by WonderGirl at 2:57 PM

July 1, 2007

Botanical Blitzkrieg

You think that's Uma, don't you? As Poison Ivy in Batman? Well, you'd be wrong. That's me, currently. I came in contact with that vicious plant last week at my parent's house, and now I am fighting an almost unbearable urge to scratch, scratch, scratch. (And my hair turned bright red, and I keep having vague thoughts about going ninja on some guy named Bill. Weird.)

Anyway, I haven't had poison ivy since I was a kid, and I forgot just how horrible it is. The rash itself is not all that bad, because I have been SAINTLY about not scratching, but ooooohhhhh the agony of the itch! It makes me want to cry! I am not kindly disposed to plantlife at the moment. As a matter of fact, I should issue a warning to all the greenery in my life to tread lightly, my friends. Tread lightly. I have been crossed by your brethren, and I seek justice. (I think the righteous vengeance must be coming from Uma.)

Anway, I sent King Pen to the store for Benadryl, and though I know it will zonk me out, I must have some relief. In the meantime, I am considering buying this shirt to memorialize my suffering. I think it'd look good with my new red hair.

Posted by WonderGirl at 2:57 PM

June 30, 2007

I'm Up, Are You?

So, my youngest has no respect for Saturday mornings. Bah. Doesn't he know we're all supposed to be sleeping in? Oh well. He and I are sitting in the living room watching Krypto, Super Dog, before the rest of the kids are up and at 'em.

Remember when Saturday used to be a big deal? I remember getting up at six in the morning to start my cartoon schedule. Mom would put out cereal bowls the night before, and we were in charge of getting our own breakfast. It was the only day of the week we got sweet cereal, and we looked forward to it all week. Cocoa Rice Krispies, Booberry, Count Chocula...

We took turns choosing what cartoons to watch, but we were in agreement most of the time. I'm just gonna throw out a list of my favorites (in no particular order), and let's all be nostalgic together, yeah?

Smurfs
Ducktales
FraggleRock
ALF
Garfield and Friends
Kidd Video
Moncchichis
Pac-Man
The Snorks
Richie Rich
Tom and Jerry
Shirttails
Bugs Bunny
Alvin and the Chipmunks
Rainbow Brite
GIJoe
Transformers

That list could be longer, but I haven't got all day! We were cartoon watching fools, weren't we, at least on Saturdays! I think that's the problem now, there are cartoons on ALL the time, every day of the week. Saturdays aren't special anymore, and that makes me a little bit sad.

Anyway, now it's time to make some breakfast for the munchkins. Hope you all have a wunnerful weekend.

Posted by WonderGirl at 8:20 AM

June 28, 2007

Robots In Disguise

I'm not the only girl dying to see this, right?

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:06 PM

Blimey!

Mom has come and gone, and I enjoyed the chance to put my eyes on her. It's been a difficult week, and it was reassuring to see for myself that she is alright. I have to fight the urge to get in the car and drive back to make sure Dad and Katie will be alright, too. I know there's nothing I can do, but that feeling is there, just the same. I want to help, when I know that nothing I can do will really help. Except praying, yes- and I've been doing that. But you know what I mean. I want to go in and do something, even if it's just making a meal or washing a load of laundry. Anything to lighten their burdens.

-Sigh-

Onward.

We saw Pirates of the Caribbean 3 last night. (I know, I know- we're the last people in the country to see it. Oh, except for you, Dolly! Nice to know we're not the only ones who never get out of the house!) Anyway, it was great! A lot better than I expected - because to be honest, the second one was a bit disappointing. And don't you Argh! me, you know it's true! But they went out with a bang, I'll give them that. One thing occurred to me though... and stop reading here if you haven't seen it yet - but if Will is now the captain of the Flying Dutchman, and he can only see Elizabeth every ten years - will she continue to age or will she be immortal like him? That's been bugging me all day. Because if she's not immortal, too, well shoot. She got the bad end of the deal! I want my money back.

What else? Oh, Chipmunk is sick. I took him to the pediatrician today (yeah, the one who's starting to ask where his $600 bucks are), and there wasn't much to be done for the poor bebe. He's got a nasty upper respiratory bug, fever and all, but his ears looked okay. Hopefully he'll be better in a day or two. This sick kid thing is starting to get old. Can we go one week without a fever or vomiting or some weird rash? Or is this just the way it is with four kids?

Man, I'm chasing rabbits today. All over the place. Sorry about that- my thoughts seem so scattered lately.

I am sleepy... we were up a lot with Chipmunk last night. I think I'm just gonna rest my eyes here for a minute... I'll be back later.

Posted by WonderGirl at 1:47 PM

June 27, 2007

Twiddling My Thumbs

So here I am, house cleaned, gumbo cooking, waiting on a visit from my mom, Aunt Diana, Aunt Charlotte, and their friend, Roxanne. They've been on a girl's trip to Nashville, and they are stopping here on their way home. My mom didn't know about it, it was a surprise for her, and the timing is perfect. So, I'm just burning an hour or two on the net before they get here. So, let's ramble, shall we?

The Duke is having some serious jealousy issues. He loves Chipmunk, and his behavior isn't directed towards him. It's all about ME. He wants my attention so badly that he cries for me all day. I don't know how to help him! Realistically, I just can't drop everything and cuddle. I have to cook supper, feed the baby, etc. If I can't deal with him right away, he has a meltdown, which leads to discipline, and it's just such an ordeal. I feel bad for him, even though I'm frustrated and the whining is driving me nuts. I feel like I am not meeting a need for him or something. Advice, anyone?

In other news, we're starting to look at the possibility of moving closer to home. Our long-term plan has always been to settle down in Louisiana, near King Pen's folks. However, the job market is slim over there. So we're looking at places that are nearby, anything closer than where we are. Everytime we come back from a long family visit, the pull is stronger. It's important to us for our children to have the benefit of cousins and grandparents, and to have that, we gotta move back! Boy, I dread the thought of moving again, though. What a pain. Mostly though, I'm just really excited at the prospect of being near my family again. I miss 'em.

Well, that's all I feel like writing today. More tomorrow!

Oh, wait, one more thing. We have had a string of bad financial luck lately, and I'm stewing about it a bit. First, we get our electric bill and it's $250! For an apartment! I freaked out, of course, and called them, wondering what in the heck was going on. Well, apparently, our air conditioner, which busted on Saturday and was replaced by our landlord, has been sucking electricity down like a chocolate milkshake all month long. Wah. And then, I recieved a bill today, stating that Chipmunk's insurance wasn't in order for the first two months (because I recieved some FAULTY information on the application process!!), and now I've got a $600 bill from the pediatrician. Wah, Wah. AND, the straw that broke the camels back, was today, when I bought a card from the grocery store, and they forgot to put it in my bag. Yeah, it was like three bucks, but that was IT! I nearly had a full-blown hissy fit.

But, it comes in threes, right? That should be it. *crossing fingers

Posted by WonderGirl at 4:37 PM

June 26, 2007

Cruel Intentions

If you think I don't know who you are, you are wrong. You may have commented anonymously, but there are footprints in the sand that let me know it was you who left such an ugly, unwelcome, unkind remark. I am disappointed in you.

This is not the place for that kind of animosity, nor is it appropriate when my family is grieving and hurting. Whatever your issues are, take them elsewhere.

Posted by WonderGirl at 6:20 PM

June 25, 2007

The Distant Nearby

I finally edited ALL my pictures and now they are ready to go up. But I'll get to that tomorrow, too tired tonight.

And besides... I have something much crazier to blog tonight before I go to bed.

There is a guy in the building opposite us that King Pen and I have both talked to on occasion, not often enough to know his name or anything. Just neighborly friendly, ya know. Anyway, one of his two little girls is around Czarina's age, and they've played together in the pool and the playground (not alone, but with us there). So, we have a passing aquaintenceship.

Well. It just goes to show that you don't know what is going on behind closed doors. Apparently, some time yesterday, he got into a fight with his girlfriend in their apartment, and he killed her. Then he killed himself. No joke.

A maintenance guy discovered them tonight when the girlfriend's sister convinced him to check the apartment. She hadn't been able to get in touch with her sister, and she knew something was wrong. She was screaming across the street when they found the bodies.

They are still over there right now. We can see the police tape, the lights on as the detectives work the crime scene. It's very surreal, and I can see it from my steps.

This is not a crime-riddled neighborhood. It's not the kind of place you expect something like this to happen. And I think that makes it even scarier.

Anyway, remember the daughters that are left in the wake of this terrible event. Say a prayer for them, because I'm sure they need it. And pray for this neighborhood, which has been shaken by unexpected violence. It's hard to know that death is a few doors down tonight.

That's all for this dark evening. More to say in the brightness of morning. Sleep tight, all.

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:06 AM

June 23, 2007

Sweet Home Alabama

And we're back!

(Oh, Will Ferrell. You silly man.)

We made it in last night, and we ALMOST got home before someone threw up in the car. This close, I'm telling ya. We were literally pulling into our parking lot when I heard HeroBoy retching in the backseat. Wah. He's fine though. I think he just ate too much junk and got carsick or something. If he could have held off a mere two seconds, we'd have been home-free. Argh. I guess I should be grateful he threw up at the END of our trip, and not the BEGINNING. So far no one else is sick, so we'll hope it was an isolated incident.

Okay.

So where in the world do I start with the updating? We have done so much the last two weeks, and I've got zillions of pictures to resize and upload here. It's a bit overwhelming! I have about seventy pictures, and it's gonna take a few days. So, I'll get to it, but first I wanted to let you all know we are back from our meanderings.

Will blog more after I unpack!

Posted by WonderGirl at 3:08 PM

June 18, 2007

Wish You Were Here!

Dear You,

Hello from M, I, crooked letter, crooked letter, I, crooked letter, crooked letter, I, humpback, humpback, I. Otherwise known as Mississippi, the crown jewel of the Southern States, as my Papaw says! We're now in phase 2 of our trip, having finished up our week with King Pen's family in dear Louisiana, and now we're visiting my folks. The kids are going to good old Vacation Bible School, and we're just hanging out the rest of the time. My sister is in town, as well as my grandmother, and we are enjoying the visit. We have a girl's night planned for tomorrow night, me, my two sisters, and my new sister-in-law. We've got our outfits all coordinated and everything. I think we'll talk about boys and probably play truth or dare. It's gonna be great.

Anywho, just wanted to let you guys know where I was and what I'm up to. I am gonna take a break from blogging this week, but I'll be back to the grind by the weekend. Hope you all have a lovely week!

Love,
WonderGirl

Oh, PS. The Vacation Bible School that the kids are going to is the same one I attended as a kid. How crazy is that? And their teachers are kids that I used to babysit. Wild.

Posted by WonderGirl at 8:12 PM

June 11, 2007

Happy Trails

Yello!

I am sitting at my in-laws house at the end of the day, hair still wet from the pool, kids sleeping upstairs, and a long enjoyable week ahead. The drive in wasn't terrible, Chipmunk cried intermittently but Czarina lended a hand when needed. The boys watched SpongeBob in the backseat until the battery to the DVD player zonked out on us. They all napped off and on, and I can't complain.

We met my mom and sister for lunch as we drove through Vicksburg, and made it to Monroe around three this afternoon. The kids played outside, and I sat on the porch swing rocking the baby, and singing songs with my toddler. The afternoon was golden and green, propped up by tall corn and sunlight. The breeze blew in dragonflies and the smell of freshly cut grass. It was the kind of afternoon that makes you sigh contentedly, glad to be exactly where you are.

Tonight for supper, we had the best of the summer spread... roast and rice and gravy, fresh tomatoes and cucumbers, corn on the cob, and tall glasses of iced tea. After dinner, the kids got in the back of DaddyWalt's red pick-up and we headed about a mile down the road to the cousin's house for a quick dip in the pool to wash away the dust of the day.

Ahhh... summertime in the country. There is just nothing else like it.

Tomorrow will be a full day of much of the same, and the day after that, and the day after that and the day after that. That's how you pass the season in the South.

All for now- time to wind myself down for the evening with dry clothes and a nice book.

Hope you all have as wonderful a week as we will...

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:10 PM

June 10, 2007

Une fête d'adieu

...because it's prettier in French.

Farewell Party

I'm wiped!! We had a full day. Church this morning, with very wiggly and restless children for some reason, and an afternoon of packing and cleaning. Then, a longtime friend of mine spent the evening with us, visiting and washing laundry since he is in town and in need of clean clothes. We wrapped up the day with a get-together in the backyard - a farewell party for our neighbors who are returning to Peru for six weeks. Bah. We'll miss them to pieces. Anyway, it was busy, busy, busy, but fun, fun, fun! I was happy to catch up with my pal, David, and glad that he got to enjoy our "block party", too. The kids, in typical kid fashion, put on a play for us, and we ate pizza and swatted mosquitoes until the sun went down and fireflies came out. We then hugged and said our goodbyes, and went inside to scrub our dirty children clean.

We're (mostly) all packed up to head to King Pen's parents house in the morning. If you think of it, send out some good vibrations my way as I drive the 5 1/2 hours by myself with the kids. I'm not sure how cooperative Chipmunk will be. He has impressive endurance when it comes to crying-- he doesn't give up easily. And he is not loving the carseat these days.
So, we may have a recipe for disaster on our hands, I don't know. So, happy mojo to WonderGirl tommorow, mkay?

Anyway... this week, we'll be swimming and playing, and hanging around with cousins and grandparents till they're sick of us. It's our vacation, but I'll still be blogging, so you'll be hearing from me. (In case you were alarmed there for a minute. I know how addicted you are to my blog. Ha!)

Well, I've got to tie up some loose ends around here before bed. G'nite all, and have a lovely Monday.

Oh, and King Pen is well now, thanks to my horde of antibiotics. Who says ya can't self-medicate? Silly doctors. Anyway, thank you for all your well wishes and prayers while we were sick. I 'preciate it!

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:26 PM

June 9, 2007

Saturday

Well, we jumped the gun on King Pen being well. He is most certainly not well, poor man. I looked in his throat, and there were scary things happening there. If he's not over this by Monday, we're marching his heiney straight to the doc.

Despite him being sick, I made it to book club last night. I had the kids all fed and bathed, and all he had to do was tuck them in, so it wasn't too bad. And I had fun! There were only five of us this go-round, but I think more people will participate in the next book.

Lots to do today, none of it all that interesting, so I'll spare you the "To Do" list. I'll blog later this afternoon, just wanted to pop on for a minute.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:50 AM

June 7, 2007

Movies and Books and Plans, Oh My!

King Pen has recovered in record time from the Mystery Fever Disease. Which, to be honest, furthers my suspicions that my real husband was replaced several years ago with a robot. The man ain't normal.

Yesterday, he was holding Chipmunk, making him dance around a little, and sing "Don't you wish your baby was fat, like me" to the tune of that Pussycat Dolls song. He's so wrong. But it was funny.

Anyway, no complaining from my end. I'm glad he's better, because today is his birthday! Happy Birthday, Robot Husband! I love you! (processing, processing...)

So now that everyone is feeling better, I can return to my usual blogging. It's a rambling kind of day today. Ya with me?

First... we've caught a few movies lately. Last night, we watched "Apocalypto". Wow. I thoroughly enjoyed this movie, though the gore was a bit over the top. (predictable Mel Gibson!) Several scenes I had to cover my eyes, because I did not want the mental image burned into my brain for the rest of my life. And, yeah, there were boobies, which was a bit distracting at first, in a National Geographic kinda way. Once you got adjusted to the occasional topless Mayan, squirting blood, and reading the subtitles, it was a breeze! The storyline was compelling, the acting stellar, and the scenery impressive.

We also watched "The Fountain" the other day, which oddly enough, also had some Mayan elements. It was a beautiful, but perplexing movie. I felt like I was on the brink of understanding it, but not quite "getting it" the entire time. Or I'd get it for just a minute, then it was gone. And no, WonderGirl was not hitting the pipe. It was all crazy on it's own. Still, a good movie.

Lest you think all we pagans watch are rated "R" movies, we also caught "The Ant Bully" with the kids. It was quite funny! It made me want to hug somebody from the Warner Brothers studio. Good stuff.

In book news, I finished reading "The Moviegoer" by Walker Percy in time for my book club meeting tomorrow night. This book is supposed to be "The Catcher in the Rye" for grown-ups. It's set in New Orleans , so it was fun to read about familiar places, but it took me a while to get into it. By the end of the book, I was used to his style of writing and could appreciate it more. I'm looking forward to our shindig tomorrow- I'm curious about what everyone else thought, and the wine and cheese is gonna go down great. Booze and books-- can't get much better than that!

The rest of the weekend is going to be busy, too. Saturday, my little sister is supposed to come into town. And Sunday we have dinner at church, and that evening, an old friend is stopping by to visit. And at some point in the weekend, I've got to get us packed up to leave for Monroe on Monday. We'll be crazy busy, but I'm just glad everyone is well now to do it all.

Well, on that note, I suppose I should get started on some stuff around here. Hope you all have a smashing day!

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:22 AM

June 6, 2007

Soldier Down

Well, our last soldier has fallen. King Pen fought the good fight, serving as the primary medic when I was sick, and now he has contracted the Mystery Fever Disease also. Two weeks now we've engaged the enemy! It's worked it's way through the ranks, wreaking havoc and mayhem. It's actually quite dreadful. I was in a lot of pain as I fought my own personal battle, so I feel sorry for KP now. It's been 6 days since I first came down with it, and I STILL have soreness in the lymph nodes in my neck, and my throat!

Anyway, he's home from work, and I will be tending to him and the kids, so blogging may be sparse for a day or two. -sniff- You must go on without me. Go, I say! I'll only slow you down! That's an order, soldier! Don't look back.

(It occurs to me that I may be a bit melodramatic.)

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:13 AM

June 4, 2007

Back from the Edge

Oh lovely world, I am not sick any longer! I have some lingering soreness in my neck and throat, but am in much better spirits. I had become a bit arrogant in my motherly immunity to my children's illnesses, and was due a come-uppance. I return to you a meek and pale creature, thankful for nyquil and a loving, competent husband. It was a dark path I trod for three days, and I was transformed into a tragic and frail figure. Seriously. Go ask King Pen. He was there. But luckily, my story was born in the Secret Garden, and a new week brings new health.

I have a lot to be well for this week! King Pen turns 32 on Thursday, my book club meets on Friday, and the library starts it's Summer Reading Program. I must also begin preparing for our vacation which we start at the beginning of next week. Much to do!

I should start by getting out of my pajamas. More blogging later- I'll try to get to one of my (weird) Reader Appreciation topics.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:54 AM

June 2, 2007

It Was Obviously Contagious

WonderGirl isa da SickGirl.

Posted by WonderGirl at 6:20 PM

May 31, 2007

The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly

This has been some kind of week for WonderGirl.

I didn't mention it here, but all four of my children were sick this week with The Mystery Fever. High temps that went up and down, and Czarina actually threw up a few times. Thankfully, we're on the tail end of it.

Which is good, because I. Am. Done.

Fried.

Whacked out.

I almost turned to the bottle, my friends. Yup. You heard it. I was going down fast, thinking how nice an amarretto sour would be by 8 a.m. But then the temps broke and the whining started to diminish, and there was an itsy bitsy light at the end of the tunnel. So I sucked it up, and pushed on, and finally everyone is nearly well and Friday is almost here. I narrowly escaped a lifetime of alcoholism, again! Go me!

But now it's confession time.

I will admit to the following, so that you may feel good about yourself.

1. I seriously wanted to tell some of my precious loves to "shut it". I didn't do it, mind you, but I stared dark temptation in the face.

2. I thanked God on more than one occasion this week for not blessing me with twins. (He has a divine perception of my coping abilities.)

3. My house may never be clean again.

4. And I kinda don't care.

5. I didn't run AT ALL this week, and

6. I ate chocolate for every other meal.

7. Many days, I wore my pajamas until lunchtime.

8. And we watched cartoons until my eyeballs bulged.

9. I used my disconnected headphones as earplugs at one point.

10. I didn't mind so much that they had no appetites because I didn't feel like cooking jack.

So there you have it.

Whew. I feel better.

Now, back to being a nice, sane mommy who doesn't drink whiskey for breakfast*.

**Mom, I joke.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:54 PM

May 29, 2007

Audience Participation

Hullo, birdies! Enjoying your Tuesday? Lovely, short week we're having, huh?

I'm in a good mood today. Why, you ask? Well, I'll tell you. It's not the fourteen Diet Dr. Pepper's I've had this morning. Nope. It's because Reader Appreciation Week at Chez Sift has arrived. You didn't know? Oh yes. It's finally here.

Let me tell you how this goes down. The first time we did it, folks submitted a comment, which I used as the title of a blog post. That worked out great- it was challenging and fun. (Especially the kind hearted soul who left "Rare Asian Walrus Asphyxiates After Eating Trainer's Shoes". Nice.) So this year, we're going to build on that theme. Leave me a comment with a word or phrase that you'd like me to use. I'll write on it, and at then end of the week, we'll vote on which blog post you liked the most. Whoever submitted the title for that post shall be declared Winner and Ruler of the Visible Domain. Okay, maybe not the Ruler part. I don't have the authority to pronounce you Master of the Universe. But, Winner you shall be, and Prize you shall recieve. And not some chintzy hand written certificate. I'm gonna send you something awesome.

So, come on! Delurk, my delightful, deserving, dedicated, degenerates. (Um... sorry. Don't let my overly-caffeinated alliteration dissuade you. Ha.)

Seriously though... I do appreciate you guys. Writing wouldn't be much fun without readers. I love you all. You spin me right round, baby, right round.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:25 AM

Rock Climbers

Yesterday, King Pen took Czarina and HeroBoy to Moss Rock Preserve. (The little ones and I stayed home because the Duke had a fever.) Before they left, I snapped a pic or two, and handed the camera off to King Pen so he could do the same while they were out. From all accounts, it was a very cool day trip. We'll have to try again to get out there all together.

Continue reading "Rock Climbers"

Posted by WonderGirl at 8:28 AM

May 26, 2007

Juice Fast Day 2

7 a.m. Awake with the kids, and nausea is gone, thank the heavens. I have tightness in my left shoulder which is causing a slight headache, but it's not bad. I think after I rehydrate, it will diminish some. Besides that, I feel good! Not hungry, which is nice. You would think that with every missed meal, the hunger would get worse and worse, but it doesn't. It actually starts to diminish after that first day. Anyway, I'm drinking some water, and in a little bit I'll hit the juice. My mouth feels funky. I've brushed and flossed and rinsed and it's still feeling gross, so I must be detoxing. At this point, people who used to smoke say they taste nicotine sometimes. Ew. Anyway, that's my state this morning. Looking forward to today- I think the worst is behind me (hopefully!).

11:15 a.m. Had to make a run to the grocery store for the next week, and that was brutal. Arrgghh!! There were free samples every where I looked, and the smell of fresh bread wafted from the bakery. Agony!! My shoulders are tight, dull headache, and I'm wiped out. Luckily, we planned on doing nothing today, so that suits my energy level. Gonna juice now, and rest some.

6:30 p.m. After much up and down discussion, we decide to break the fast. We had originally intended to go for three days, but hated the idea of being so zonked out on a Sunday. Sundays are hard enough to wrangle, with getting the kids to church and all. It would have been a pretty miserable day, and it seemed best to shorten our original goal. So, we had a light soup, and revelled in the deliciousness! We slept great last night, and woke up this morning recharged. I feel terrific! I'm really glad we did it, but glad also that it's over.

Okay, all for now. More later!

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:02 AM

May 25, 2007

Juice Fast Day 1

6:30 a.m. Had about 10 oz. of strawberry/banana juice- actually quite filling. I am a little groggy without coffee, but managing okay. Slight tightness in my shoulders but no headache yet.

9:30 a.m. Neck ache is beginning to turn into a slight, thuddish headache, but not too bad. Little bit hungry, but I don't eat a big breakfast anyway, so not missing too much. Drinking some water.

1:30 p.m. Things are going well! I had more juice for lunch, and I've been sipping water all day. Headache is minimal, mostly just fighting some hunger pains and wondering what to do with myself! Teeth are tingly though, which is a bit weird.

6:30 p.m. Okay, I'm officially really hungry. The kids are eating dinner, and it was all I could do to resist licking my finger as I made their plates. Neck is tight, headache is inconvenient but not terrible. I am fighting a little crankiness. We went out for a hike with the kids to get some fresh air and pass the time, so that was good. Now we're gonna veg out with a movie.

8:00-10:30 p.m. I hit the lowest point here. I got wretchedly ill, couldn't keep anything down. Every time I got sick, my head felt like it was going to explode, literally. I haven't been that sick since an unfortunate encounter with a tequila bottle a few years back. It was ugly. I finally fell into bed and slept it off.

Posted by WonderGirl at 8:28 AM

May 24, 2007

Juicing

Went to Whole Foods tonight to stock up on juice for my fasting weekend. Do you know how much I love that store? Do ya? I wanna marry it. White dress and all. Sorry, King Pen. We had a good run. But I can't resist the charms of Whole Foods any longer. Just send my things to the produce section, aisle 1.

No, I'm kidding. Whole Foods already has a girlfriend anyway. Some little open art market in Soho.

On with the story. I put Chipmunk in my new fabulous sling, and I blended right in with my fellow bohemian shoppers buying their organic bean sprouts and hemp toilet paper. I was coo-ool.

Here are the juices I got, all from Bolthouse Farms:

Green Goodness
Strawberry Banana
Berry Boost
Vedge
Passion Fruit

I also got some off-brand cranberry/rasberry juice, and white grape juice to supplement in case we need it. Did I mention King Pen is doing this with me? So I needed a lot. Do not ask how much I spent. I had to work out a finance plan with the cashier. Monthly installments. But can you put a price on health? Can you?

Don't answer that.

Anyway, we're stocked up on primo juice, and I'm ready to go. I'm eager, and yet, dreading the whole thing. I know how good it will feel to do it, but man oh man, the pain you go through at first. Guh. I'm already pining for that first missed cup of coffee in the morning. Water with lemon just doesn't pry my eyes open like that beautiful brown bean of joy. Wah. I'm gonna missa my cuppa.

Well, I suppose with that thought, I should turn in. I'll be up and at 'em tomorrow, and I'll blog as I fast so you can follow along. (Since you're all just hanging on my every word. You don't have anything else to do, right?)

G'night, moonpies. See you in the morning.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:53 PM

I Heart Anthropomorphism

Hello, Thursday! You're right on time. Where's Friday? Oh, right behind you? I swear, Friday is the slow-poke of the pack. Come on, already! Get the lead out, Fman!

So. Lost last night. Who saw it? Did it rock, or what?? And now, we must endure an entire summer of wandering what the heck is going on. Again. Oh, Lost. The way you string me along is shameless.

Not much else going on today, just the regular stuff. I am not sure what our plans for Memorial Day weekend are. We thought about driving up to Chattanooga and going to the Aquarium, but then I looked up ticket prices and GOOD GRIEF! Life's too expensive! We are just not at that point where we can drop a hundred dollars for an afternoon stroll through a fish tank, thank you very much. One day, yes. But till then, we'll just look up pictures of fish on the internet. (Awww, how sad does that sound?) Seriously, though. I want to be able to do things like that when we have the money for it, it's not that I'm cheap. But sakes alive. Do I have to sell a kidney to take the fam on a little vacation? Right now, a hundred dollars might as well be a thousand. And since we are trying to get into a house, we've got to keep a careful watch on our money. So, no trips to see the fishies.

I have been thinking about using the four day weekend to do another fast. It's been a while since I did one, and I think I'm due. It's not an entirely pleasant experience though, and I do hate wasting precious vacation days on something so unfun. If I decide to do it, I'll blog it again like I did last time.

Well, I should get. Kids need dressing, dishes need rinsing, and babies need snuggling. Have a happy day, everybody! See ya on the morrow.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:25 AM

May 23, 2007

Wodnes dæg

We watched Pan's Labyrinth last night, and wow! What an amazing movie! Every scene was enthralling, though occasionally horrific. It was in Spanish, so we had to read the English subtitles, but after a few minutes I didn't even notice. As a matter of fact, I think the soft, lilting accent made it even better, more "otherworldly". It was haunting and beautiful and so compelling that I didn't want to miss a moment of it. Definitely one of the best movies I've seen in a long time. Check it out.

In other news, I made it back in one piece with all the chilluns. They are happy to be home, and I'm happy to have 'em. We'll be getting back into the swing of things today. I am basically through with teaching school, I just sort of burned out on it this last week or two. We'll keep up with it some throughout the summer, but we're basically done. Hoorah! Summer's here!

Speaking of which, the pool opens this weekend, and we're all geared up for it. Floaties, sunscreen, boogie boards, and goggles. We're ready to hit the water. All except, ya know, getting me back into a swimsuit. Bah. Why must swimsuit season be nipping at my heels so soon after having my fourth child? Come on! Gimme a minute, here!

I've been running a few times a week, working my way up to 2 miles. I am starting to see it in my calves and arms, but I'm still waiting on my stomach. Not there yet. I'm also watching what I eat, so that has to be helping, right? I am back to my prepregnancy weight, but I lack the tone I once had. I guess it took ten months to get into that condition, and it will take longer than two months to get out of it. Patience, patience. I should get a swimsuit that says "I just had a baby, so quit judging me" written across the butt. There's definitely room for it! Ha! I kill me.

Okay, I gots stuff ta do. You guys take it easy, and I'll blog ya later.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:22 AM

May 22, 2007

Where in the World is WonderGirl?

I've been busy!

I recovered the rocking chair:

And made these curtains that you cannot see in this picture:

And enjoyed baby loveliness:

And sewed the sling, which King Pen will have to photograph me wearing later. In addition to that, I painted some picture frames black, touched up the wall paint, and organized the kids rooms and clothes. The only thing I didn't get to was steam cleaning the carpet. Oh well. We can live with the spots a little longer.

I'm finishing up a few more things around the house, then going to pick up the kids this afternoon. It's been great- and very productive, but I miss the kidlings and am ready for them to come home.

Okay, that's all- just thought I'd pop in and letcha know I hadn't fallen off the face of the earth or anything! I'll be back in a day or so.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:46 AM

May 21, 2007

Busy as a Bee

Good morning, sunshines! How are we, today?

I am up and ready to get going. So far on this (mostly) childless weekend, I have sewn curtains, halfway recovered the rocking chair pads, reorganized the boy's room and their clothes, and picked up fabric for the new sling. Today, I will buy some paint to do touch-ups on our walls, sew a sling, finish the rocking chair, drop off some stuff at the goodwill, hit the library, go for a run, cook something yummy and adultish for dinner tonight, and catch the season finale of Heroes. It will be lovely.

I enjoy productive weekends, which is a new development that came along with having kids. Before then, my main goal for a weekend was sleeping as late as possible and uh... yeah, that was basically it. Now, those rare weekends sans the kiddos are glorious, blank days to accomplish stuff. I remember once upon a childless time, thinking that people who spent their weekends so busy were crazy. Relax, I'd think. Chill, baby. But now I get it. I soooo get it. I'm like a madwoman with a to-do list. Watch out. You could get splattered with paint.

Anyway.

At church yesterday, I recieved several comments like, "Oh, you look nice and fresh today!" While I appreciated the positive remark, it did make me wonder in just what condition I've been dragging myself around lately. Scary! But it's true, I did feel refreshed. We had a church picnic, and I got to sit with the ladies and chat AND make my own plate and eat the whole thing (no sharing!). This is quite the treat, trust me!

Well my little dumplings, I must go. I have lots on the agenda today, and I should get started. Hope you all have a wonderful, productive Monday!

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:08 AM

May 18, 2007

I Spy

I'm drinking out of my official C.I.A. coffee mug this morning. Sadly, that's about as close as I'll come to using my degree in criminal justice. Oh, you didn't know? Well, yes. You don't think I'd call myself a superhero without the credentials to back it up, do you?

I started out majoring in elementary education, but I was never really into it. Then, I had a bad break-up, so I changed my hair and my career goals. (Hey, we all deal with our issues differently.) So, I decided on the ever-useful field of criminal justice. Yeah. It was a tad... random. I wanted to work for the C.I.A. I wasn't thinking very far into the future, of a family and all that. I just wanted to kick some keister. Then I met King Pen, and suddenly my expertise seemed a bit irrelevant. Unless he was masterminding some criminal activity. And trust me, I checked him out. He was clean. No ties to the seedy underworld. No need for kicking keisters.

Now here I am, with this admittedly cool, but totally useless, degree. So I drinks mah coffee, daydream about when I used to take tae kwon do, and live vicariously through the likes of Buffy, Lara Croft, and Sydney Bristow.

Sometimes I wish I'd gone to culinary school. Or the Advanced Laundry Academy, or Carseat Technical Institute. Would come in handy these days! Since knowing how to kill a man with a paperclip and a rubberband hasn't turned out to be so useful. Yet.

Okay pumpkin heads, I have stuff to do. I am packing the kids suitcases today, which means a foray into Laundry Land. A scary place when you don't have the proper degree. I'll catch you later.

Hi-Yah!

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:03 AM

May 17, 2007

Evolution of Language

I think we should all agree from now on to pronounce laboratory as "Luh-bore-uh-tory."

Come on. You know it's more fun.

Posted by WonderGirl at 2:35 PM

Madame Chatterly

Well, howdy do, everybody! How's it going this Thursday morning? Hard to believe it's Thursday already. Another week, come and gone. Wowza.

There's a guy here working on our sink today, and it's awkward. He's going to be here for a few hours, and I think we're gonna try to get out of here as soon as Chipmunk wakes from his nap. It's just weird to have a stranger in your house all day long. I feel like he's trying to read over my shoulder every time he walks by. Like he knows I'm blogging about him. Spooky.

Oh, okay, it's not really spooky. I'm just trying to create drama in my exceedingly undramatic day. Let me have my moment.

As an aside, why must my child come stand right beside me to toot? Seriously. Just a few feet over that a-way would be much better. Personal space, children. Personal space.

Speaking of the kids- they are going to my mom's house this weekend, did I mention that? Saturday. I. Am. Thrilled. I have about a two month threshold, and then I need a babysitter something fierce. If we lived near family, it would be different. I would have the occasional hour here or there to drop them off at Grandma's, and I'd be able to decompress more often. But that's a luxury I don't have (yet). So it accumulates until I am ready to FedEx my children to the nearest family member. Luckily, there are plenty of people willing to sign for them. Ha.

So this weekend, I plan to steam clean my carpet, touch up the paint in a few rooms, sew a new sling, frame some pictures, drink margaritas, curse, watch rated R movies, and walk around without a bra on. Whoohoo!! It's a no-kid zone for three whole days. Well, except for Chipmunk. But he's so little, he won't remember anything from the "Mom Gone Wild" weekend. Sweet.

Well that's all for now. I think I hear the baby crying, so that means we can get out of the handyman's way. I bet I come back and he's trying to check my email, though. I tell ya, the man is nosy. But he fixes a mean pipe.

Peace out.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:10 AM

May 15, 2007

On Girl Movies

I don't watch girl movies, as a general rule. Occasionally, if the opportunity presents itself, I will pile into the car with my sisters or aunts or girlfriends and we'll go catch a show that the guys wouldn't want to see. Maybe once or twice a year. It's more about a Girls Night Out, though. If they'd go get margaritas with me instead, I'd rather do that. Especially if they have chips and that good, white cheese dip.

But every now and then, I feel as if I am missing out on something, and I'll run out and rent two or three chick flicks. King Pen rolls his eyes, because it never works out the way I think it will.

Well, it hit me this weekend, and I rented "Catch and Release." I like Jennifer Garner- she's my girl. She had me at "Alias". And the back cover of the movie sounded a little like "Hope Floats", which is one girl movie I enjoyed - so I went for it. I got my Goobers, my Diet Dr. P, put on my comfy clothes, ignored the tortured sighs of my husband, and settled in on the couch for some good girly me time.

Well, I am reminded of just why I quit watching this stuff. It stunk. Like old, moldy leftover casserole in the fridge. I didn't want to admit it at first- King Pen was clearly wearing his "I told you so" look. I tried to hold out, but he was right. Again. Girl movies bite.

At least I had my goobers, though.

What's happened to me? Am I missing a chromosome or something? Why can't I enjoy a goopy movie? Or is it that they make them so poorly that nobody really likes them? Predictable plots, forgettable dialogue, underdeveloped characters. Or have I become one of those people that can't appreciate a movie unless something blows up in it? I hope that's not the case.

The next girly-type movie I am really looking forward to is The Time Traveller's Wife, in 2008. That was such a great book. If only they'd blown up a few more things, it would have been perfect. (Kidding.)

Anyway.

I guess I should get myself in gear. Stuff to do, stuff to do. Movies to watch, yada yada yada. Have a good Tuesday, everybody. Mo' blogging later.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:32 AM

May 14, 2007

Grwl

Ergards. I hate waking up to fussing and fighting from the Short Ones. I come up out of bed like the giant from Jack and the Beanstalk. FEE FI FO FUM, If you're smart, you better run! And they do.

I make a beeline for the coffee pot, and try not to dole out judgements until both eyes are completely opened.

Anyway...

Coffee's ready now- I'm going to get my fix. I'll be back on later.

By the way- Chipmunk has his 2 mo. check up and immunizations today. Wah.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:20 AM

May 12, 2007

Popping In Between Yawns

What a day! The Duke turns two tomorrow, so we had a little shindig for him this afternoon. I'm wiped.

Pictures tomorrow afternoon, after my Sunday nap.

Happy Mother's Day to all... and here's a little humor to celebrate the occasion. (Cause I didn't get you flowers. I'm sorry.)

You Know You're a Mother when...

You count the sprinkles on each kid's cupcake to make sure they
are equal

You plot to get even with the kid who broke your child's toy and
made him cry

You can remove chewing gum from just about anything

You hide in the bathroom to be alone

Someone else's kid throws up at a party, and you can keep eating

You believe finger paints should be a controlled substance

You read "Once Upon A Potty" out loud in a crowded waiting room

You hope ketchup is a vegetable, since it's the only one your child
eats

You tell your child that TOYS R US is a toy museum, not a store

You find yourself cutting all sandwiches into unusual shapes

You fast-forward the VCR through the scene where Bambi's mother gets
killed

Continue reading "Popping In Between Yawns"

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:42 PM

May 11, 2007

A Mother's Day

Time stands still for no man... or woman.

Every day, I see the signs, the long, little girl limbs of my daughter, the squaring shoulders of my sons. Time transforms them into the future right before my eyes. Some days it is sweet, and some days it stings. I miss who they were the day before, but I am proud of them today. The years begin to pile up around me, birthdays and Christmases holding more memories than will fit in my photo album. My life is full to bursting with these four people, the littlest details surrounding me like piles of golden coins. The way her hair curls, the way he runs, the freckles, the scars, the giggles, and the tears. They are my treasure, my life's accumulation.

It scares me that one day, I can't scoop them up in my lap. I can't hold that little hand to cross the street. I won't be able to lean down to kiss them goodnight and tuck them in, because they'll go to bed later than I do, and the dark doesn't scare them anymore. And one day, they'll be in another bed, in another house, in another life.

It's the natural course of things, I want those things for them. But as much as I prepare them for those days and watch proudly as they graduate from stage to stage, I mourn. Each step that brings them closer to what they will be, seems to take them farther from me.

Yes, yes I know... it is right and good, this growing up they are doing. But let me have today, let me have the tears, let me have the sadness. Because my best friends are changing, and in my heart I know that the suns that have risen around me will one day set. It is the way of things.

But not today. Today, they cast morning light, and evening is far away. Today I am the world to them, and they to me.

Today, every day is a Mother's Day.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:57 AM

May 9, 2007

Jingle Torture

Tell me, please, that you are all being harrassed by that "Get Zwinky" commercial on tv, too.

It's not just me, is it?

Get it outta my head! Please, for the love of all that is good in this world, GET IT OUT!

(Nevermind the fact that I don't know what in blazes a Zwinky is. But dangit. I want one now.)

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:30 PM

May 6, 2007

Books & Bubbles & Bees

I made a quick trip to the library today, and I might have been overly ambitious in my selections. Somehow, I ended up with an armload of books that I couldn't bear to choose from, so I brought them all home. Craziness. I have about fifteen minutes a day to commit to reading- and that's assuming I don't drop the book in the tub. Oh come on- you know you are all out there reading your books in the bathtub, too. Don't get all high and mighty "I only take showers" on me, and "I'd never take a book in the bathroom, that's disgusting". You lie. And my friend- lies make the baby Jesus cry, so you better stop. There's no shame in the tub. No shame, I say! And if you stay in there, reading your James Patterson and Nora Roberts paperbacks till the bubbles are all gone and your fingers look like Granny's, well all the better. You and I understand each other. We are kindred spirits.

Anyway, I am pumped about the books I got. And I am pumped that I am pumped about it. Because it means that I am finally starting to WAKE UP. There's something about the pregnancy hormones that dulls my brain. It's like smoke on a beehive... I become slow and uninterested, less prone to rouse myself to anything creative. As the smoke begins to clear, I perk up. I want to write again, read again, participate in the world. Make metaphorical honey and... metaphorically sting people? I don't know. I could only make that analogy go so far.

But it's a good thing, this coming awake again.

However, that's all for tonight... no more waking or buzzing or bathing. I'm sleepy and off in search of cool sheets and dreams of bees. G'night, dears. See you in the a.m.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:45 PM

May 3, 2007

One House Down

I'm reading a book right now called "American Bloomsbury" that has me totally fascinated. Did you know that Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, Louisa May Alcott, Nathanial Hawthorne, and Margaret Fuller all lived in the same town, at the same time? They had relationships with each other, pooling their literary and political interests to become the founders of Transcedentalism. They rented houses and land from each other, had brief romantic interests in one another, used each other as inspiration for characters in novels... They learned, and lived, and wrote, together. They were a community unto themselves. I had no idea! I've always thought of these authors independently. It never occurred to me that they interracted with each other. I love the concept, though. I would love to live next door to someone who wanted to exchange literary critiques, to engage in conversation about writing techniques, and in a greater sense, how to interpret life as writers. Someone who inspired me, and found inspiration in me as well. What would such fertile ground produce? When it comes down to it, yes, you sit alone with a pen in your hand, but you write with the world at your shoulder. What could you write with genius one house down?

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:57 AM

April 30, 2007

Global Pouting

Have you guys seen "An Inconvenient Truth"? Is it me, or smack dab in the middle of it, did Al Gore have a big poutfest about the election?

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:37 PM

April 28, 2007

Taking A Break

Hullo Saturday! You're stunning today. Seriously. That breeze? That golden sun? Have you been working out or something? You're fabulous.

It's been a productive morning so far. I've gotten the kids' bathroom cleaned, the kitchen, and made a start on the laundry. Still to do is my bathroom and bedroom, a trip to the library, and a quick run in there somewhere.

The door to our deck is open, and the scent of honeysuckle is wafting in. Aaaah. There is no sweeter air freshener than that.

Today, Chipmunk is two months old. In celebration, I have been replaying the day of his birth over in my head. The memory is still clear, and amazing. I count my blessings today. Four! I still can't believe I gave birth to four children.

That's all. Must don the rubber gloves again and get to work.

Posted by WonderGirl at 2:23 PM

April 27, 2007

About Me:

I find it difficult to fill in this space. I have a hard enough time defining myself without words, let alone with them! But here is what I wrote for my facebook.

About Me: I can't tell you About Me, without telling you About Them.

I stay at home with my four children and that occupies my hands and heart all day. I love what I do, even when I don't, and I am happy, even when I'm not.

I am the oldest of four children, and that makes me responsible, and a little bit bossy. I have been married for ten years, and that makes me lucky, and a little bit stubborn. I've been a mother for six years, and that makes me blessed, and a little bit exasperated.

I can't describe myself without those things, who and what I am is utterly wrapped up in my family. I consider myself a writer, and they are my inspiration. They are where I point my camera, they are Kansas to my Oz. I love beautiful things, music and art and nature and food- and I strive to bring them into my home to share with my family. Some days I am better at it than others.

I believe in do-nuts on Saturdays, clover necklaces in the Spring, cyprus knots in the living room, sun hats on Easter, and marshmallows in cocoa. If I can pass along even a part of that to my children, I will be happy.

Posted by WonderGirl at 2:48 PM

April 24, 2007

A Place to Hang Our Hats

If you haven't noticed recently, the Sift has been kinda quiet. I've been a bit preoccupied with other things, namely, some research on buying a home. Our lease is up June 31 in our apartment, and we have been weighing our options before resigning it. We've never seriously considered anything but renting before. With King Pen in school, it just wasn't going to happen back then. And last year when he graduated, we had no start-up money for anything and credit that was slightly tarnished, so it was still not on the radar. But now, things are a little better, and we thought, well, let's just see. We had no idea where we stood at all. So, a few inquiries later, and now we know. (It sure pays to have a friend in the mortgage lending business-- thank you Christin!) Anyway, the conclusion is that we're almost ready. Yay! We've got a six month plan that I think will land us in our first house by the end of December. I know that's probably a horrible time to try to move, but that's the way it looks. I'll admit, I'd love to move right this minute- who wouldn't? But I'm cool with it. I want to do it the right way, be totally prepared and not in over our heads, and we need the next six months to get that way.

This is big. Really, really big. I don't even know how to say it better than that. We've worked hard, especially in the last five years. We hoped that life would be better one day, but we didn't want to put too many specifics on it. Our goals have been abstract, distant, a little fuzzy. And suddenly, one of those dreams is clearer than ever before. I am as excited about taking purposeful, substantial steps towards it as I will be to turn the key in the door the first time. This is really gonna happen, to us. You have no idea what a joy it is to believe that all our hardwork was worth it, that the road we took was the right one. There has always been that tiny seedling of doubt (okay, occasionally, a huge womping WEED of doubt), that maybe all we'd done was make things even worse. But then, we come around that first bend, and there is something good off in the distance... and we can see it, almost touch it. And we know we've come the right way after all.

Anyway, I just wanted to let you know what was what. And also give you-my dearest friends and family, an explanation as to why you will probably only be getting a card on your birthday this year. And a homemade Christmas gift. We're buckling down, tightening the belt, and getting ourselves into a house for the holidays. You can come over for hot cider to celebrate. Heck, let's have some buttered rum instead! "Tis the season for rejoicing.

Posted by WonderGirl at 3:56 PM

Alright!

It's Michelle! Way to go, Czarina! She overheard one of the other kids in the neighborhood call her "Ms. Michelle", so she ran into the house to tell me. She then waited expectantly, until I realized I was supposed to tip her.

Smarty britches.

As an aside... Michelle doesn't much sound like a Peruvian name, does it? But who cares- I'm just glad I can finally call the poor woman something!

PS-- I was kidding about Czarina and the tip... she hasn't yet figured out that we'll pay for information.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:07 AM

April 23, 2007

Olfactory Ghost

I'm sitting here, minding my own business, when I suddenly smell ketchup. Ew. I hate that smell!

I must be smellucinating.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:39 AM

Cock-A-Doodle Do

Hiddily-ho, neighboroonies. How are you all getting along this fine Monday morning?

Okay, wait. I think the coffee may have been a little strong this morning. I can always tell I've overcaffeinated when I start channeling my inner Ned Flanders. Sorry 'bout that. I'll try to tone it down a little.

So, what's on the agenda today? I'm feeling energetic and kind of artistic, so I think I'm going to work on Chipmunk's baby book. Right after I finish the Duke's, that is. I am woefully behind on all of them, except Czarina's. Her's is top shelf, I tell ya- but the others... erg. I am just glad I had my girl first, because I don't think the boys will care much when their fourth tooth came in. I was totally on the ball with Czarina's, but that was when she was my only occupation. I recorded her first EVERYTHING. Believe me. She's gonna kill me one day for it. But now I'm so busy living life, that it's hard to stop and record it all. Except here at my blog. How about I just give them the link to my blog when they ask about their empty baby books? Very maternal, WonderGirl. It's easy to see why I keep winning that Mother of the Year award. I rock.

Let's see... what else?

Went running again on Saturday. And I'm not sore! That's an improvement over Tuesday's run, that left me limping for a day or two. I love running. It's so good for me, mentally. It jumpstarts my brain! I find lots of inspiration for writing as my feet pat-pat-pat on the pavement. And it's my therapy time, too. I think about what's going on in my life, yada yada yada. I am so thankful for a husband who cheerfully takes over the house so that I can get out of it for a little while. He's great.

Well, I guess I should get to a few things around here. I know this was short, but I like to ride that coffee wave as long as I can! Laundry! Vaccuuming! Dusting! Let me at it! I'll hop back on later if the day allows. Hope you all have a pleasant Monday!

(Hm. I wonder if anybody will notice my excessive overuse of the exclamation point in that last paragraph?)

Posted by WonderGirl at 8:33 AM

April 20, 2007

Fry My Day

Oh Friday... where have you been all week? Well, never mind. You're here now, and that's all that matters. Come here, lemme give you a big old hug!

It's shaping up to be a beautiful day outside. Sunny, with a crisp breeze- a perfect, mild Spring day. Love it. It means the kids can play outside- whoohoo! And it also means a pleasant run this afternoon for me. I went for the first time on Tuesday- I ran a mile and a half, and walked a mile and a half. It was good, but also depressing in a way. My hips were killing me for two days afterwards, just a physical reminder of how much work I have to do! I was running over three miles three or four times a week before I got pregnant. -Sigh- I wonder how long it will take to work back up to that. Also, changing my eating habits is no fun. It's like any addiction, I guess. I reach for a snack when I'm stressed, which is bad, bad, bad. Because having four small kids means stress on a fairly consistent basis. Not that I'm complaining. I'm just saying... the kitchen is right there, and it's a quick fix. Ergh. But, is self-discipline easy for anybody? I think everybody probably has an area in their life that they struggle with their willpower. Temptation comes in many forms. Mine happens to come candy-coated with peanuts inside! Anyway-- I am looking forward to running again today, and that's a good sign. Positivity. Moving in the right direction. Ya know, maybe I should just hang my swimsuit up on the wall to motivate myself... put a little fear into me. Nothing like exposing ourselves to the world to whip a girl into shape. I find the threat of people pointing and laughing to be a powerful encouragement to drop that snicker's bar.

Let's see, what else can I ramble about this morning? How about the fact that I have become really good friends with my next door neighbor, but for the life of me, can't remember her name! Crap! We hang out almost every other day, watching our kids play together, and have had extensive conversations about life, our families, etc... She's from Peru and has great kids and is super nice, and now I'm sunk because I can't call her by name. Doh. It's too late now- we're way past the point when I can say, "And what was your name again?". We're practically best friends, with the bracelets and everything. She even asked me to be her children's godmother... okay, it's not that serious, but still. There's no going back now. I can't even be sly about it and ask somebody else, because nobody else is around! Just me and her. This has gone on for weeks now. But ya know, she hasn't called me by my name, either- so maybe she's forgotten as well. Hey, maybe that means we're a perfect match! This could be the start to a beautiful relationship. One where we always have to say, "Oh, girl" this and "Oh girl" that, when addressing each other. But still.

Well, I have to get to the rest of my day... hope you all have a nice weekend!

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:10 AM

April 19, 2007

Gulp.

Oh, hey, Pastor. I didn't know you were reading... No, it's cool. Really. Let me just, uh, erase one or two little things... scratch through that word, and that one... oh, and definitely that one. And I'll just go ahead and delete that entire "Confessions of My Seven Deadly Sins" category. Nothing interesting there. Nope. Nothing at all.

Okay. There we go. Squeeky clean.

Whew.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:31 AM

April 18, 2007

Checking In

Every time I try to blog, something interrupts me and I totally lose my train of thought. I've got a lot of little items on my to-do list that keep distracting me this week.

I think I'll take a few days off to get my biz together. I'll be back by the end of the week. Have fun without me! Be good! Save me some cake.

Posted by WonderGirl at 4:18 PM

April 17, 2007

House Buying

Does anybody have any experience with lease-options on houses? I'm so sick of renting! Is this a viable alternative until we are ready, credit-wise, to buy a house?

Posted by WonderGirl at 7:01 PM

Rumbly in My Tumbly

Man, that Lean Cuisine lunch just doesn't cut it at 3 p.m. Wah.

Posted by WonderGirl at 3:39 PM

Starbucks in My Eyes

Good morning, bright world! How are you today? I'm right fine. I'm up and ready to wrangle Tuesday into something good.

My schedule has changed a lot having Chipmunk in the house. He wakes up early in the morning, around 6:15. I feed him in the bed, and then we lay there for a little while just chatting, he and I. Most of the time, we go ahead and get up after a few minutes, and he lays on a blanket in the living room while I pitter around. I make breakfast for the kids (who are not up yet), coffee for me, and watch the news, read my Bible, check my email. Orient myself for another day. It's actually quite nice- this extra time in the morning. Well, don't get me wrong, the first fifteen minutes of having to wake up are still brutal. But after that, it's really nice to look over at the clock and realize how early it is, and how much time I have to get all my morning activities done. Loving that.

Now, the night schedule... that's still tough. It seems like I am doing some chore till the very end... there is a glaring lack of free time around here. I guess that's just the way it's going to be for a while.

But I'm not complaining. Not today, or at least not this early! Besides, I've gotten very good at finding the spare minutes in the day, and I do make the most of them.

Well, I have some sticky kids to wipe up. I'll blog more later.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:31 AM

April 13, 2007

Stepping Out

I feel like I've been unfaithful to my blog today. I... I've been at Facebook all day, I admit it. I'm sorry! It doesn't mean anything! We're just friends, I swear it! Nothing happened!

Posted by WonderGirl at 6:54 PM

Watch Your Luck

So I'm on my own today and tomorrow with the kids. Shhh- don't tell them how vastly they outnumber me.

King Pen is going out of town to a preparation class for the Landscape Architect liscensing test. He can't take the actual test yet, but this is a good opportunity to learn what's on it so he can start studying. Oh, and there's a crawfish boil. I think that sealed the deal for him. Anyway, I will by flying solo until tomorrow night, when my sister Britt and my grandmother get here. Britt is our resident fashionista and hairstylist, and she's giving me a new 'do. I'm cutting off the 8 inches for Pantene's wig program, and the rest is mine to keep. I don't know what kind of cut I'll end up with, but I'm excited about the change. Plus, the Chipmunk keeps grabbing fistfuls of it and hanging on for dear life, so hasta la vista, baby. It's gone.

Speaking of my little guy- he's sick. We've all had colds for the last week or so, and he's picked it up. Drat it. I'm doing all I can for him, and I've talked to the pediatrician because he's running a low-grade fever. I am keeping a close eye on him, and I'll definitely take him in if he needs to get checked out. HeroBoy was about this age when he got RSV and had to be hospitalized. That was a scary time that I don't care to repeat! I hate it when babies are sick. They don't understand why you can't make it better, and you feel like such a heel.

What else is up today? It's Friday the 13th, yeah? Spoooooky.

And that's about all I have for ya. The well is a bit dry at the moment... I'll pop back on later if inspiration hits. Hope you all have a great weekend.

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:20 PM

April 12, 2007

In the Appointment Book

Today's plans: a midmorning playdate for the kiddos, and some grown-up conversation for WonderGirl! Whoohoo! Thank you, Denise, for coming to us, since we're immobile today.

I'll blog later this afternoon during naptime. (The kids', not mine. I may be good, but I'm not that good!)

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:08 AM

April 10, 2007

This Just In

Okay, so Larry Birkhead's the father. Can we move on now?

Posted by WonderGirl at 6:36 PM

OverKill

Well, I blog, I myspace, I xanga, and now I facebook. It's not my fault, ya know. If my friends would just all get in one place, I wouldn't have to follow them all over the internet! Anyway. Because I am the masked hero that I am, I still didn't use my real name. This is a bit inconvenient at times, but I'm a stickler for anonymity. Anyway, here's what's in my internet wallet:

Atlbogs: WonderGirl and the Sift (here)
Xanga: http://www.xanga.com/mywondergirl
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/mywondergirl
Facebook: Wonder Girly

Methinks the theme a bit overdone at this point, but at least it keeps things simple!

Posted by WonderGirl at 1:54 PM

Change in the Air

I've been waiting on this postpartum time like it was New Year's. Everything I'm wanting to do, to change, to quit, to improve- I put it all on this 6 week mark. My postpartum resolutions, if you will. And now that that mark is coming up (Solon will be 6 weeks on Saturday), I am turning that mental list into an actual list. That way, if I don't follow through with them, I'll be publicly embarrassed. I find shame and humiliation as a powerful motivational tool! Ha!

The first and obvious one is eating and exercising. These two go hand-in-hand for me. When I am running, I can't stand to eat poorly. There's nothing worse than blowing a good workout with a Snicker's bar! All that sweat for nothing. So I'm back on the train starting next Monday with that one. Actually, I think this will be one of the easiest resolutions to keep, because it's so straight forward. Just Do It, like Nike says.

The next ones are heart changes, which makes them tougher. I want to focus more on the spiritual needs of my family, beginning with myself. I'll admit, I've been idling in that area. I haven't been consistent in bible study or prayer. I was really hit by that during Solon's baptism... how much I need to be praying for my children. In an effort to organize myself, I want to keep a prayer journal. I haven't done that since I was a teenager, but I think it would be a good way to become more mindful of the needs around me (and in me). Along with this is somehow finding time for family worship. We used to do this when Czarina and HeroBoy were smaller. But once the Duke came along, we got busy and fell out of the habit. I honestly don't know how to make this one work, but it's on the list, because it's important.

Also on the list is being a better friend, sister, daughter, everything. It used to be easy, because I didn't have the demands on my time I do now. I could pick up the phone whenever it suited me, I had no trouble getting to the post office to mail things, my weekends were free for visits. Now, I have more factors to deal with, so I have to make a conscious effort to do those things. I don't want my busy life to become my excuse for being a thoughtless person.

Lastly, I want to nourish the creative side of myself, and my children. This means getting off my lazy behind and providing the kids with some activities. More macaroni art, more painting, more glue and glitter, and yes, MESS. But they need it, and messes can be cleaned. The tv needs to go off more often, and the construction paper should come out. I want them to grow up to be creative and imaginitive, and I have to foster that in them now. The other half of this resolution is finding time to be that way myself. That's tricky. But I miss writing! I miss sewing! I miss something, anything! Somewhere in my day, there has to be an hour for me, right? Unfortunately, it usually comes at the cost of sleep, and it's a toss up which one is more important these days. Anyway. It's on the list.

So that's it, in a nutshell. Okay, a HUGE nutshell. But I don't expect these things to change overnight- I'm realistic. Surprisingly though, I am not overwhelmed by this list. I'm excited! I think these things will improve the quality of our life, and that is an encouraging thought.

Well, I have tuned the kids out enough for one morning... they're getting a little wild on me. Have a happy day, and I'll blog again later if I have time.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:45 AM

Caffeine Me

You know it might be a challenging day when you stand in front of the coffee maker as it brews saying, "hurry, please hurry, please, please, please..." Ha!

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:05 AM

April 9, 2007

Back In the Saddle

Well, drat. I was going to edit the pictures I took over the holiday weekend, but Photoshop wasn't cooperating. I'll have to put King Pen on that tonight. A girl has to have her image editor these days. Forget mascara. I want my adobe programs! (And with that, I have solidified my standing as Runner Up in the Mrs. Nerd Amercia Pageant. I won't actually win it, because I'll panic during the interview question.)

Anyway, I'll wait to give a rundown of our visit until I can put the pictures up. I will say, we had a great time- though the trip home was less than stellar. The Duke is teething, and teething BAD. He has an upper tooth coming in the back, and it's really bothering him. He perfected the low-grade whine on the way home, while Solon worked on his mad-as-a-hornet cry. Eh. We did what we could, but at some point, you just have to drive through the pain. Every town we drove through, I lamented "Oh why can't we live HERE? Then our trip would be OVER!" I think King Pen and I both said at some point, "We are NEVER leaving home again." Which is not true, of course. We'll do the same thing in a month or two, because we are gluttons for punishment that way! Nah, it's just something that's important to us- seeing family outside of the Christmas break. We want our kids to have those close relationships with cousins and grandparents, etc. The drive is unavoidable at this point, though hopefully one day, it won't be. Either we'll move closer, or somebody'll invent a teleporter. I'm hoping for the teleporter, honestly. That way we can also hit Jamaica occasionally. WonderGirl needs to work on her tan. (Trust me. It's for your own safety-- these legs will burn your eyes out right now.)

Okay, I guess I'll end here, and get started on the jinormous mess around me. It's scary. But somebody has to do it.

Ya know... let me just state for the record, how awesome I feel today. I'm happy! Normal! Not crying over something! This is such an improvement over the recent weeks, and I'm loving it. It's so good to be back.

Anyway, 'nuff said. Have a chill Monday, folks! See ya tomorrow.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:43 AM

April 8, 2007

Joy!

Home again, home again, jiggity jig! Will blog in the A.M. Hope you all had a lovely Easter!

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:30 PM

April 5, 2007

I Got The Prize Egg

It's been a slim blogging week for me. Actually, I've had things to write about, but I have been on a bit of a hiatus. With 3/4 of the kids gone, I've rested a lot. My reserves were totally depleted, and this week has been one of refueling and refreshing. I feel great! I know that Monday I have to hit the ground running again, but at least I am prepared for it! For the past month, I've only been able to muster up enough strength for each day. It was like driving a car on fumes all day, then rolling in neutral into the gas station each night. (That's a weird analogy, but anyway.) I was exhausted when I woke up each morning, and I went through the whole day like that. Now I am finally caught up on sleep, and I am mentally and physically rested! Yay!

I did accomplish a few things this week. I packed away all the maternity clothes, gathering some of them to return to other people. I got out my "regular" clothes, which I should rename into "Oh my gosh, was I ever that small" clothes. Oh well. I hung them all up in my closet. I peer at them periodically through the day, my personal army of motivators. They are my cheerleading squad, egging me on.

Go, WonderGirl, Go!
Run, run, run!
We wanna see
The sun, sun, sun!

A week and a half, I say. Then I'm coming for you. I can't wait for my 6 week mark!! Seriously, I'm daydreaming about running. That's a good sign, I think. But, then again, I'm also daydreaming about Reese's Peanut Butter Eggs, and that's not a good sign. Oh well.

Let's see, what else did I do this week? I finished up last season's Smallville, and I started the last season of Sopranos. (I probably shouldn't admit to watching that show, but dangit. I'm in it, now. I have to know what happens to the Family!) I also watched Eragon, and The Pursuit of Happyness, two movies I wanted to see that King Pen didn't. So I watched them while he was at work. Mwahahaha! Oh the indulgence of a movie in the midmorning! Shame on me! It was a delicious treat, and I won't apologize for it. So there.

Oh, and I read a book! Snow Flower and the Secret Fan- sent to me by my dear sis, Ashley. Lovely. I didn't even have to stay up all night to finish it- I just read it off and on, leisurely.

What a week. I did what I wanted, when I wanted, and it was exactly what the doctor ordered. I realize things will go back to normal next week, and I'm cool with that. I'm ready. I'm like a camel. I'm all filled up and ready for the desert. Not that I view my life as a mother as a dry desolate land. I'm just saying, grown-up time is scant when you have four kids. (And there are occasional scorpions.)

Anyway, that's it for me tonight. Need to finish up some packing - we're off tomorrow for Easter at the inlaws. I won't be writing till next week, but that's okay, because you probably won't be reading till then, right? Hope you all have a wonderful holiday, lots of candy, and pretty sun hats. (Except for the fellas. No sun hats for you. Weirdos.)

Bye, everybunny! (haha - I amuse myself.)

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:09 PM

April 4, 2007

Midweek

I didn't mention the other day that when King Pen's parents left on Sunday, they took the three oldest with them. Since we are going to their house this weekend for Easter, it just happened to work out. So I am here alone with one little baby. Wow! I actually feel kind of guilty for lazing about, but boy did I need it. This past month has been so physically and emotionally trying, mostly because of the breastfeeding problems. Speaking of which, we've decided to transition to the bottle completely... or well, Solon decided for us. He just wouldn't nurse anymore, and I can't pump indefinitely. In a way, it's a relief to have it settled, though I still have my moments when I get upset over it. It's not what I wanted, but we don't always get what we want, do we? At least I know beyond a shadow of a doubt, I gave it my all. I tried as hard as I could. He'll be okay with a bottle, and life marches on.

So this week is my breath-catcher, thanks to my wonderful in-laws. The kids are having a blast, I'm sure, and King Pen and I are catching up on sleep. Sweet.

Since I am down to one kiddo, I thought I'd try a little shopping. Well, apparently, I have the wrong kiddo for the job. He's not into it, at all. And to be honest, I wasn't loving it either. I hate postpartum shopping. But since none of my clothes fit decently, I really do need a few things, especially something I can wear for Easter. Maybe I'll try again tonight, minus the wee one. I hate buying bigger clothes though. I don't plan on being in them for long, I'm ready to be my regular size again!! -Sigh- That's a whole post in itself.

Well, I'm getting cried at... I better go! More later.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:06 AM

March 29, 2007

Stuff

Part of an email I just recieved from Kathy:

Just had to let you know that the Net Nanny blocking software we had to purchase .... blocks your site and I have to override it. It says it contains "drugs, gambling, mature content, adult content, and alcohol." LOL

Ha! Who knew the Sift was such a den of iniquity!? Hi, I'm WonderGirl, welcome to the speakeasy of the internet. Don't forget the special knock.

In other news, you are not going to believe this. You've all been dragged along for the ride so supportive on this breastfeeding thing, it's been great. But after all that work, I think I've hit the final brick wall. After my two good nursings yesterday, I noticed something. Solon was hemhawing around when I tried to feed him. I had to convince him to take it, which he eventually did, but he wasn't loving it. Well, last night, he decided enough was enough, and he went on a full blown nursing strike. He screamed and bucked when I tried to feed him. It was terrible. I was crying, he was crying. I felt like I had lost my best friend.

I knew this was a possibility when I started pumping and giving him a bottle, but I didn't have any other choice. It was the best I could do. Now he prefers the bottle, because it's easier and faster. I'm still having to do a lot of work to breastfeed, repositioning, etc. It takes several minutes to get him on right, then a few more for the letdown, and then I might have to start all over if it hurts. There are multiple interruptions until we get it going good. It's frustrating to him, and me, too, so I guess I understand him taking the easy route.

I looked up some stuff about it, and they suggest getting rid of all artificial nipples, either cup or spoon feeding if you need to continue pumping your milk. What? Good grief! I don't have time for any more extra steps here! I'm hanging on by my fingernails as it is!

Anyway. I'm gonna try again today- maybe he'll be more receptive to it. If not, I give up. There. I said it. I. Give. Up. I'll pump and feed him and decrease my milk until I can wean without too much pain. I have tried everything I know to do, and I've got to let it go now. As much as I want to, I cannot stay this focused on breastfeeding. My other kids need me too- and I hate to admit it, but I've been very unavailable to them emotionally and physically since this whole thing started. Saturday, Solon will be a month old, and if he doesn't come off his "strike" by then, at least he'll have had four good weeks of mama milk.

I sound more nonchalant about it than I actually am though. It's heartbreaking, and I am really sad about it. King Pen said he felt like somebody had died, that's how hard I'm taking it. It is a type of grief, and some of you know what I'm talking about. But I'll be okay, and he'll be okay, if this is the end. You just have to have a good cry over these kinds of things. It helps.

Well, I'm off. A million things to do today. Have a good Thursday, folks!

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:57 AM

March 28, 2007

A Random Need to Know

When you're up at four in the morning, you think about weird things. This morning, I was pondering all the different names people have for grandparents. Don't ask me why- I don't know. Who knows anything at that hour?

Anyway. I have two Nannies, one Papaw, a Grandpa, and one Nanny Mae- though I call her Mae, now. And I used to have a Granny, and a Grandma.

I think this is more common in the South, eh? I'm curious- what do you all call your grandparents? Come on, delurk. I really do wanna know.

(PS. I love how my blog topics are now born in the delirium of nightly feedings.)

Posted by WonderGirl at 1:35 PM

Rising and Shining

Good morning! And yes, I really mean it. It's a good morning. Despite getting to bed late last night and rising early this morning, I feel well rested and ready to go. (The coffee helps!) But mostly, it's because I have some renewed optimism, after two good nursing sessions yesterday. They were the first pain-free breastfeeding experiences I've had with Solon! The first was on the side I've been "resting" for this past week. The crack had healed over, and he didn't open it back up. I'm going to be very, very careful with it. The second good experience was on the other side, after some very careful positioning. I was thrilled and surprised. I'm eager to see how today goes- I hope the trend continues! Maybe there's hope after all!

I can't believe March is almost over. I am so out of whack on my dates and days of the week. I have no concept of time anymore! I will be glad to come out of the fog completely and be involved in the world again. I miss the world! I think the first step towards that will be this weekend, when I get my hair cut. I don't know why, but that's always one of the first signs that I am returning to life again. This will be a pretty dramatic cut for me- I've finally got the inches I need to donate to either Locks of Love or Beautiful Lengths. Long hair has been fun, in a way, but I'll be glad to see it go. It's inconvenient when you have a baby and are short on styling time. It gets in the way a lot. Anyway. Enough about my hur.

Well, I need to go eat something. I took vitamins on an empty stomach, with coffee, and I'm starting to feel gross. Bleh. I knew better and did it anyway.

I'll blog later if I have time!

Posted by WonderGirl at 8:47 AM

March 27, 2007

Missing

The scariest thing just happened in our neighborhood. Our upstairs neighbors have kids the same age as mine, and they play out on the porch together almost every day. The little boy, Sergio, is HeroBoy's age, and they play together pretty well, considering that Sergio doesn't speak much English. They are cute together. Anyway, they were all playing and somebody realized Sergio was missing. The whole neighborhood began searching for him, but he wasn't anywhere. We were all in a panic. His parents were screaming and freaking out - but I couldn't blame them. The kids were all scared to death. His big sister, who was in charge of watching him, was sobbing wretchedly. My heart was breaking for her, and I was trying not to cry myself. Someone called the police, while we all continued canvassing the neighborhood in search of him. While we were looking, I was thinking how easily it could be HeroBoy missing. He and Sergio are two peas in a pod- if somebody took one, they could just as easily have taken the other one. They even look a lot alike. I clenched their hands in mine tightly as we called for Sergio... hoping and praying that I wasn't witnessing the worst day in my neighbor's lives.

It was a terrifying reminder that the world isn't as safe as I want it to be.

Well, Sergio was not lost. He had crawled into his sister's bed, under the covers, and was sound asleep. It wasn't a place anybody even thought to look for him, but there he was, thank goodness.

My pulse isn't racing anymore, and the neighborhood isn't in total chaos, and the kids are safe at home, happily eating a snack and watching a cartoon. It's a normal day, once again, and for that I am so grateful.

Posted by WonderGirl at 6:13 PM

March 26, 2007

Never A Good Idea

Oh Britt... you've got to hurry up and get here to cut my hair. I glared into the mirror with a pair of scissors for thirty minutes this morning. Scary.

Posted by WonderGirl at 4:20 PM

March 21, 2007

The Rambler

I feel sorry for the Duke. He's gotten the short end of the stick lately, I hate to admit. Czarina and HeroBoy are old enough to go outside and play by themselves (with frequent checks from Mom!!), but the Duke is entirely dependent on me to get him out for fresh air. And I haven't been exactly great about that lately. Today though, I promise, I am walking them all to the playground to "run them out" a little. I can put Solon in the sling, right? The hard part about it is that the Duke requires a lot of hands on attention at the park. I am still a bit anxious about venturing out with all four of them- but I guess I have to do it sometime or another!

It really is gorgeous here. I put a baby gate on the deck door, and have kept it open all day for the breeze. The windchimes are tinkling and the fresh air is cool and refreshing. Czarina is doing her school work while the Duke naps, HeroBoy is riding his bike on the porch, and Solon is dozing in the sling while I catch up on emails and whatnot.

It still hits me throughout the day, I am a mother of four. I have four kids. FOUR. One, two, three, four. Wow. I thought three was it for us, so this has been quite a mental adjustment for me. I have my good moments, and my not-so-good.

One of the most chaotic moments of the day is supper/bath/bedtime. I need to figure out how to minimize the stress of that hour and a half. Right now, it's crazy. Dinner is wild anyway, getting plates and drinks and desserts for the three of them- somebody spills, somebody won't eat, somebody needs more of this or that-- all while trying to have a halfway decent conversation with King Pen, and juggle Solon who refuses to be put down most of the time. Then comes bathtime- which usually coincides with Solon's feeding. So King Pen wrestles three kids in the tub, and I clean up the kitchen or feed/rock Solon. Then comes pajamas and teeth cleaning, then finally tuck-ins- all times three. But you can't forget the "extras" - someone needing to go to the bathroom, somebody who is hot or who can't find their stuffed animal, etc. It's nuts. By the end of it, King Pen and I collapse on the couch, barely able to construct a coherent sentence. After an hour or so, we're able to reestablish some sanity, but by then, it's nearly bedtime for us, too. Except for Solon, who is now wide awake and is wearing his fussy britches.

Whew.

Just writing it all wears me out! But, I know there will come a time when everybody is old enough to do some of these things themselves. Eventually, we won't have to oversee every little detail, and that will be super! I'll miss a lot of special moments from this time, but I will definitely appreciate the days when they are more self sufficient.

Well, I've rambled on about nothing in particular for long enough... I need to go finish school with Czarina. Have a good afternoon, folks! Wish me luck as we take on the playground.

Posted by WonderGirl at 3:01 PM

Popping in to Say:

We're off to a good start today! Yay! I haven't actually accomplished much yet, but I feel rested and capable of taking on the day. This is a good sign.

Just wanted to make a note of that, since I have been so complainy lately!

Will blog later. I need to keep my momentum going and get some stuff done.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:35 AM

March 19, 2007

We Live

We survived our quick trip home for my brother's wedding. Driving wasn't too bad, though we barely made it in time for the ceremony. Seriously, they were walking in the mothers when we got there! But we were there, and that's what matters. The rest of the visit was fast and uncomplicated, but I was happy to get home again. We were all pretty tired by the time we rolled in Sunday.

This morning, we got off to a rocky start. I intended to pick up Czarina's schooling again today, but that just didn't happen. But I am not beating myself up about it. I needed to unpack and wash laundry, and I figured one more day of Spring Break couldn't hurt. I have figured out though, that mornings for me just suck. Everything seems really bad at the beginning of the day. I look around and see all that needs to be done, breakfast and cleaning up, etc., and I'm totally overwhelmed. Plus, I'm tired, and hurting from a night of not-so-careful-nursing, and all I want is for the world to leave me alone for a little bit longer. But. Then I eat some breakfast. I turn off the t.v., put my shoes on, pick up some toys, and then I feel like I can cope again. By eleven, the world doesn't seem so terrible, and I think, okay, I can do this. I am learning not to judge the day, or my life, by the very first hours of the morning. Optimism pops it's head back up just when I need it to.

It's hard to remember that it's only been a little over 2 weeks. I know I expect too much from myself and from life, and I need to remember to take it easy. Relax. Chill. If the day doesn't line up perfectly, well, that's okay! This is easier said than done, of course, but I still have to remind myself of it. I'm such an overachiever! That sounds like a good thing, and it is on occasion- but it can be a major pain in the butt, too. Just ask King Pen. Poor guy. Somebody needs to buy this man a beer.

Well, that's all for now-- I just wanted to pop in for a minute while I had both hands free. Now I must go wrestle up some dinner. Have a good evening- and I'll write again later, maybe!

Posted by WonderGirl at 7:17 PM

March 16, 2007

Top o' the Morning!

An early start to our day today. Czarina and HeroBoy are hitchhiking to my parents house this morning with my aunt, who was driving through town on her way to my brother's wedding. Czarina is a flowergirl and HeroBoy is the ringbearer- so this way they make it for the rehearsal tonight since we're not leaving until tomorrow morning. Incidentally, it also gives me a bit of a break for the day! King Pen gets off work at 2 also, so I am looking forward to a low key day. I'd love to find a nap somewhere in there.

Although, I have to admit that last night was decent for sleep. I was so beyond tired- I think it had all caught up with me, and I slept hard. I've had some kind of light on every night so that I can feed Solon easier, but I decided I needed one good, dark night. So after I fed him, I would turn the light back off. I think it made a difference in the quality of sleep I got.

Man-- is this as interesting as this post is gonna get today? I'm sorry, guys. My brain is muckish today. And yes, I believe I just made that word up. But we're not playing Scrabble, so I'm safe. (Scrabble... I could go for a good game of Scrabble about now. Or Boggle. I think my brain is just desperate for any kind of exercise these days.)

But the belly is louder, and I'm hungry. I'm gonna grab some breakfast before Solon demands his. Happy Friday, everybody! I'll write later if I have time.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:48 AM

March 15, 2007

Vacation in My Ears

Headphones can save your sanity as a stay at home mom. Shoot... as any kind of mom. The Duke and Solon (I really need to come up with his internet name soon!) are down for naps, and Czarina and HeroBoy are munching a snack and watching some toons. So I settle in with the laptop for my fifteen minute getaway, headphones up as loud as my eardrums can tolerate. I'm having my snack, too- a tall glass of ice water and some Breyer's Swirled Yogurt. The Fray plays a private concert especially for moi, and I feel downright pampered. Sweet! Honestly, the Fray will set me straight when I am having "a moment". I don't know how they do it, but I'd be lost without this cd.

Things are going... well, I suppose. Things are just going, really. I'm not going to lie to you. It's hard sometimes. The biggest obstacle I have been facing is not the sleeping or crying or even prioritizing the needs of four children. It's breastfeeding. If we could just get that worked out, everything else would be a walk in the park. But when that goes wrong, good grief. The whole world starts crumbling. I won't go into it, because it'll only depress me and you both, but let's leave it at me needing your thoughts and prayers right now. I had the same troubles with the Duke, and it ended up with me weaning him at a month old, which absolutely devestated me. I am determined not to let that happen again. So I'm taking it one feeding at a time. It's funny- in that not really funny way-- that every day begins and ends with the desperate words, "God help me" on my lips. I'm serious. I guess it's a lesson to take from the whole thing- our days should always begin and end with that litany, no matter what. But right now, it is an especially fervent and literal prayer.

Other than that though, it's good.

Changing the subject, my brother is getting married Saturday. I haven't written about him in a long time, for different reasons. He's had a rocky road, one that we were all dragged along on for many years. It was a painful time, and recovering has been a slow process. But in the last year, the road began to even out, less bumps and bruises. He's better. It's still hard sometimes to let the past be the past, I'm just gonna be honest. It's hard to trust. But, like I said, we've come a long way. And a few days from now, he'll be marrying a sweet girl and beginning a new life, walking a new road. My prayer for him is that this one is smooth and carries them both to good places.

But since he's not getting married in my living room, this means we've got to hit the road. With a two-week old. I sincerely hope I'm not getting in over my head. We're leaving Saturday morning and coming back Sunday morning, so it's a quick trip. And I'm keeping it as low key as possible. I am putting Solon in his sling, and he'll basically stay there the entire time. Hopefully, everyone will understand why - I just can't expose him to a crowd yet. He's so teeny! And the world is so germy! I have flashbacks to HeroBoy having RSV and that's not an experience I care to repeat. Anyway...

I waffle on.

Feels good to sit here and just blah blah blah. There are clothes to fold, dishes to wash, beds to make, bags to pack - plenty I could be doing, but dang. I needed to do some mental housekeeping, too. My head gets crowded, backed up with words and thoughts that need to be swept out on a regular basis.

But my fifteen minutes has long passed, and The Fray is winding down, so I guess I should go. It was nice though. I love our little chats, they do cheer me up! I don't know what I would do without this place. The white space is always here, waiting for me to fill it up with the excess from my mind. Thank goodness for that.

Well, I'll see ya at the next intermission of my life.

Posted by WonderGirl at 4:02 PM

March 14, 2007

Nutty

Last night at about 3 a.m., I looked over at Solon, who was stirring beside me, ready for his umpteenth meal. (Yes, we're cosleepers. Don't fuss unless you want a knuckle sandwich.) Anyway, I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that I am suffering from severe sleep deprivation when the adorable little squirrel on Solon's blanket winked at me.

The scariest part is that he did it more than once.

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:19 PM

March 13, 2007

Blatherings

The windows are open and the breeze is blowing, the house is (relatively) clean, baby is sleeping, and the kids are playing.

Huh?

Surely there is something else to do besides sit here and wait for somebody to need something. But, surprisingly enough, I have a minute to myself. Everything is done. I could spend this minute brushing my teeth (did I do that today?), brushing my hair (is this my ponytail from yesterday or this morning?), or trying to erase the dark circles under my eyes (I need industrial makeup to tackle that job). There's just no way around it... right now I look like death warmed over. Sleep is the only cure, and there's none of that in the near future. Thank goodness for a husband who sees me with blurry, sleep deprived eyesight as well. Ha.

Soon though, I hope to not give a frightened whimper when I pass a mirror. I'm ready for the complete postpartum overhaul. I want my nails done, a facial, a haircut and style, and some clothes that don't rely entirely on elastic to stay put. And while we're at it, let's throw in a massage! I've never been one to deprive myself!

I am ready to feel good again. Actually, it will be a challenge to wait the six weeks to get back into my full exercise routine. I'm eager to try out my new running shoes! Or... maybe we'll call them "fast walking shoes" at first. I am not really unhappy with my postbaby body- I mean, yeah, there are some areas. Areas we won't discuss or examine with great detail just yet. But, every day it's a little better. I am optimistic about getting back into shape, getting back into a healthy lifestyle. Goodbye, Snickers and peanut M&M's... I loved thee well. Hello, granola- it's been a while! -sigh- I think dark chocolate straddles the line between health and junk food though, so that's encouraging. It's got antioxidants, right? Good for your heart?

Well, I guess I really should go check to make sure I brushed my teeth today. There's no excusing poor hygiene. Gotta brush 'em if ya got 'em, right?

Posted by WonderGirl at 5:41 PM

March 12, 2007

A Note to Micheal Jackson

Dear M.J.:

So... um... how's Blanket doing? We haven't seen him in a while and well... we're all just wondering how the little guy is getting along.

No, this is not a legal document. And no, we're not interested in buying Neverland. Or the single white glove. No, seriously, stop trying to sell us stuff. We just wanna know if Blanket is okay. And the other one... what's his name? Prince Micheal or something like that?

No, we're not with child services.
Or the district attorney's office.

Sheesh, this is turning into an ordeal.

******

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:11 AM

Why Must It Be Titled?

Whoa. What a weekend.

The kids came home Friday night, and there was much rejoicing. We were so happy to have them back in the fold! However, my joy was stunted Saturday by the onset of mastitis. Horror, let me tell you. It is the ultimate nightmare of breastfeeding. I felt so terrible by Saturday evening that I could barely move, literally. Poor King Pen- he had to take care of us all, including HeroBoy who has a cough/fever thing that he is having trouble shaking. (he's been quarantined from Solon, I assure you!) Anyway, I started taking vitamin C and fluids like a madman, but by that night I needed an antibiotic. So I got something called in, and now I am feeling much, much better. It was rough though. Mastitis is no joke. I have a whole new sympathy for women who have had it before.

So, it was kind of a rotten weekend. All that, plus the transitioning for everyone with a new baby in the house, my totally unreliable emotional state due to hormones, mastitis and nursing problems, and the sleep pattern of a newborn-- yikes. I'm glad to see the end of that weekend. I am more optimistic for tomorrow. I feel so much better physically, I know it will make things easier mentally.

Solon gets circumcised tomorrow, poor fella. It's not something I am looking forward to, but at least it will be over quick enough. His umbilical cord fell off today, too, thank goodness. I didn't realize it, but because we didn't put iodine or silver nitrate or whatever that stuff is on it when he was born, it had to rot off. About a day ago, it started to smell really bad, and I called the midwife in a panic. She told me it should fall off within 24 hours of the smell, which is good, because that's about how much of it you can take. It was so gross. But now it's gone. Thank the stars.

Dang it. It's late. I want to write, really write, but there's just no time right now. Solon is sleeping, which means I need to be doing the same. -sigh-

Okay, I'll write more tomorrow if I can. Maybe I should teach Czarina to type so I can dictate blog posts to her. Hm... there might be something to that. Plus, I could pay her in cookies.

G'nite, folks.

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:52 AM

March 2, 2007

And Out Like A Lamb

Well, as I halfway expected, the contractions eventually spaced out enough for me to know this was not it. Oh well! So, I'm going shopping. Maybe a little mall walking will do the trick... but if not, then at the very least I'll get a slice of pizza and a new pair of tennis shoes out of the deal.

Have a good weekend, folks!

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:03 AM

In Like A Lion

Today might be a good day to have a baby. I woke up a little before 5 with contractions, and they are around 6/7 minutes apart. They feel pretty decent- when I start to get one, I have to stop what I'm doing and relax through it, so that's a good thing. I think. I don't know, because really, I've done this a few times over this last week, and they'll just sputter out after a couple hours. So, maybe, maybe not. But I figured, hey, I'm up and just sitting here, I might as well blog about it.

Regardless, I'm really glad today is Friday. Yesterday was a bit stressful with all the bad weather in Alabama. We've lived here for less than a year, and it takes a while to get a feel for how people respond to emergencies. The last few storms that have come through have gotten a LOT of attention from the news media but they turned out to be pretty typical thunderstorms. So I was starting to wonder if maybe Alabamians are a little overly-dramatic about the weather. Any excuse to turn on the sirens, ya know? Well, apparently, their caution wasn't misplaced yesterday. I think something like eighteen people died in the tornados that swept through. Sad. Here in B'ham, we had a very brief storm pass through, but nothing like what people in other parts of the state experienced.

Well, I think I'm going to get moving around a little and see what happens with these contractions. They'll either stop, because they are those finicky prelabor contractions, or they'll stick around and turn into something interesting. I'll letcha know.

Happy Friday, everybody! Have a good morning.

Posted by WonderGirl at 7:08 AM

February 27, 2007

Small Talk

The weather here is beautiful! I have the windows open and the breeze blowing in is so refreshing. I love unprocessed air! The extra oxygen is rejuvenating.

I don't have much to write about today- you'll have to forgive me. I've been reading a few good books lately and basically taking it easy, including a semi-hiatus from blogging. I mean, I'm still updating here, but I haven't invested much in it lately. I have been browsing a lot of the blogs I read though, catching up on people's lives. Oh, and I've been doing some overhauling of my old entries. Under "Past Escapades", if you click on "WonderGirl's Complete Archive", you'll find that I have gotten all the way back to about April 2004. It's taken me a while! I still am not done with them, but it's a very time-consuming process. When I moved from my old blog, I decided not to write under my real name anymore for different reasons, and so I had to go through all the entries AND comments and remove our names. I'm nearly there. I think I have one more year of entries to "sift" through, then I'm done. Maybe I'll work on that some more this afternoon! It's been hanging over my head since I moved to atlblogs, so it'll be nice to have it done.

Speaking of archives, one of my favorite things about the new layout is the "Time Warp". I don't know if you've noticed it, but every time you reload this page, an exerpt of an old entry pops on the sidebar. It is fun for me to go back and reread something I'd totally forgotten about, plus it gives new readers a chance to get to know me a little better. Which could be a good thing, or a bad thing, depending on what they read! Ha! Anyway, it's a cool feature.

Well, that's all for now- nothing much really but a howdy. Hope everyone has a great Tuesday! More later if I'm feeling it.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:50 AM

February 26, 2007

Apartment Dwelling

Oh please... somebody make the fiesta music upstairs STOP. It's KILLING ME.

Posted by WonderGirl at 4:44 PM

February 21, 2007

And You Shall Be Called...

It occurred to me last night, not only did we have to come up with potential boy/girl names for this baby, I also have to come up with a blog name! Feel free to help me out, folks. Throw some suggestions out there, how 'bout it?

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:41 AM

February 20, 2007

Random TV Observations

Is it me, or is Oprah looking odd these days? It's like she's using her makeup to change the shape of her face or something, and it's just not working. It frightens me a little.

And also, anybody watch CSI Miami? Do Horatio Cane's poses seem to be getting more and more dramatic? The man cannot face the camera head on! He's always in profile. It's weird.

Oh, and The Hills. Yeah. I feel my brain dying when I watch that show. No more. Same for Dirt-- I'll admit, I watched a few episodes. But I had to quit-- that is some kind of raunchy show. I mean, sheesh.

Okay, 'nuff chitchat. I'm gonna go eat some breakfast now, and READ A BOOK. No more tv.

Well, until Idol comes on tonight. And Lost tomorrow. And Survivor Thursday. Ha.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:46 AM

February 19, 2007

Hormoans

I excitedly opened the box for the vacuum cleaner yesterday evening, and little busted plastic parts tumbled out around me. I cannot express my disappointment enough. I was so looking forward to vacuuming! I almost cried.

Which just goes to show how manic my nesting instinct is. Did I mention the other day my joy at seeing the dirty clothes the kids took off at bath time? I actually thought to myself, Finally! I have enough to make a full load to wash!

That is not normal. At least, not for moi.

Also not normal- the emotional breakdown I had watching Pollyanna today. I didn't just tear up, I have to admit. I all but buried my face in the pillow and sobbed like a fourteen year old girl getting broken up with.

On a brighter note, we're taking the vacuum cleaner back, tonight, so I can use it tomorrow to my little heart's content. Yay!

Posted by WonderGirl at 7:11 PM

February 18, 2007

Febrooary

King Pen's parents came for the weekend, leaving today with two giggling stowaways, Czarina and HeroBoy. It's awfully quiet now, I have to say. His parents are rowdy! No, I'm kidding. It's the absence of our two resident chatterboxes. Although, I'm sure the Duke will do his best to fill the silence and drag out the usual amount of toys! I had mixed feelings as they left... mostly just hoping I didn't send them away too early. My due date is the 26th, or more likely (and yes, optimistically), the 22nd. So, as long as I don't go past that by much, or at all, I'll be happy. But if it drags on and on and they are away from home too long, I'll feel guilty.

But not today. Today, I am just basking in the quiet! And in the awesomeness of my inlaws. Not only did they take the kids for me, they also took us out to eat last night, for some great Mexican food. I ate until I was in serious danger of popping. I was sort of hoping the spicy food would jumpstart things, but no such luck. I did get a few good tastes of King Pen's margarita though, so that was a plus. I'm sure I looked like a responsible mother-to-be, with the buddha belly and all. But hey, it was just a sip or two. So hesh up.

I feel okay, not so good, not so bad. I am ready and waiting but trying not to dwell on it too much. Which means, yeah, I'm thinking of it constantly. Shoot. It's just impossible not to! I am dying to know if we have a boy or a girl. The anticipation of the whole thing is killer. How will it go? How will I cope with labor? What will the baby look like? Questions, questions, and all I can do is wait.

One day I feel like labor is right around the corner, and the next I feel totally unlaborlike. I asked my mother-in-law if I had "that look" yet, and she said sympathetically, "Oh Wondergirl, you look too good- you don't look miserable yet! Maybe you should try to look more pitiful." So that's my technique for the week. All out pitiful. I'm gonna pout this baby out.

Anyway.

Hey, we got a new vacuum cleaner! Yeah! You know your life has changed drastically when you can't wait for the kids to go to bed so you can get out the new vacuum cleaner and see how much it rocks. Sad. But it's lime green, man. How cool is that? I get points for that, right?

Well, I don't have much else to say today. I just wanted to let everyone know how things were. No bebe, yet. But you can't be pregnant forever... it's just GOTTA happen sooner or later. Hopefully sooner than later.

Okay, I'm out. More bloggy tomorrow.

Posted by WonderGirl at 8:57 PM

February 16, 2007

Sleepless

My body put me through a serious trial run last night. I got into bed at about 10ish, but I was restless and didn't sleep. I was having contractions, but figured I'd fall asleep at some point. Wrong. By midnight, King Pen had come to bed, and I was getting increasingly uncomfortable. I got up and drank some water, because sometimes that helps, but not this time. I eventually ended up on the heating pad in the living room, watching tv. I tried dozing, but the contractions were too distracting. I stayed there, unsure if I was in labor or not but definitely hurting until about 5. Around then, they started stalling out. I was so exhausted, I decided to try getting back in bed to see if I could finally sleep through them.

And I did! Yay! I slept from 5:30 till 8ish. I feel much better. A little worn around the edges, but better. I had the same thing happen when I was pregnant with HeroBoy, so I'm not surprised. I'm glad I gave it enough time to know if it was the "real thing" or not. And to be honest, I'm glad it wasn't Go Time. I needed to make it until today, when King Pen's parents come into town and take some of the kids home with them. I just wasn't quite ready.

Well, that was my night. I am happy to see the sun today! But, I won't be surprised if in the next day or two, things really get hopping. Baby is not that far away...

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:55 AM

February 15, 2007

Today's Doings

Today, the kids had a check-up with their new pediatrician, FINALLY!! We've been here 8 months and it took me that long to get my stuff together. We can file that under Bad Mom. Or maybe just... Busy Mom. Anyway, all the crew are healthy and I really like the new doctor/staff. It's two seconds from my house, which is really nice, also! The Duke had to have shots, and a little extra loving today because of it. I've been giving him motrin, which is helping, but he's still grouching around a bit. Poor kid. He's hanging in there, though. They all had fingerpricks, which Czarina didn't handle very well. Blood freaks her out. Like she turns into another child altogether, I kid you not. But we managed. Then, she and HeroBoy had to pee in a cup, a first for both of them. They thought that was the craziest thing they'd ever heard. I made sure to emphasize that this was the ONLY appropriate time to pee in cups. I've learned to be preemptive. All in all, it was an easy trip, and I'm glad I was able to get it done before the baby arrives.

As to that, I'm feeling fine today- a little lumbersome, but not laborsome. But that's okay. I had a wee nap after our outing, and I am doing good. As much as I would still like to do around the house (those fan blades really need a good touch-up!), I am trying not to overdo it on anything. I am in rest mode. Which means we're eating lots of sandwiches and poptarts these days. Eh. I'll be glad to be back to my normal energy level, so I can cook and play and keep up with these rascals around here!

In other random news, I finally efiled our taxes today. Yay! No, really. I love tax season. We always work it out so that we get a little something back, which is going to come in handy with this baby, car payments, all that. Yay for money! Mama needs a new pair of shoes!

Okay, I know it's not much of a blog post, but this will have to do for the day. I'll catch you guys in the a.m.

Posted by WonderGirl at 6:01 PM

February 14, 2007

Luv

Happy Valentine's Day, everybody!

May your day be filled with chocolate, hugs, kisses, flowers, and lotsa love!

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:25 AM

February 13, 2007

Chop Off Their Hands

I recieved a package today from my aunt, containing an old novel called The Outdoor Girls at Ocean View, by the author of the Bobbsey Twins. It looks like a juvenile reader that Czarina and I can read, a neat old book. But the best part is the inscription in the back handwritten by a previous owner in 1939.

Steal not this book for fear of shame,
For in it is the owner's name.
God would say on Judgement Day,
"Where is the book you stole away?"
And you would say, "I do not know,"
And He would say, "Get down below."

Wow. Bet you didn't know book theft will send you straight to hell, did you? Yup. Technically, she's right- eighth commandment and all. But yikes. Kinda persnickety, huh?

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:28 PM

What's Another Word for Misc.?

Morning, y'all. How is everyone? Ya know, this is becoming a bit of a habit, blogging first thing in the morning while the kids eat breakfast. The Duke is usually still asleep, so it gives me a few quiet minutes to catch up before the day begins. It is not, unfortunately, my most inspired moment of the day. My head's still fuzzy until at least 10 a.m., so you aren't getting literary works of genius. Sorry. I expect my schedule to change drastically once the baby is born... more night time blogging. Writing is best done in the dark, in my experience. Maybe we'll get back to some good, old fashioned, juicy blogging. Till then, though, we take what we can get.

Anyway.

Yesterday's appointment went well with the midwife. The kids were good, good and sticky. But I'm not complaining. God bless the man who invented lollipops! They sat patiently in the room with me until I needed them to step out, and then they sat out in the waiting area for a few minutes while we finished up. Even the Duke cooperated pretty well. As for me, I'm fine, healthy as a horse. (Okay folks, stop reading now if you don't want to know girly stuff.) The baby isn't as low as I'd like it to be, but I am dilated to 3cm and things seem favorable for labor. But I am just not feeling it yet, ya know? Oh, don't get me wrong, I wanna be. Each day that I wake up feeling like a million bucks, I just want to cry. I want that imminent, miserable feeling, because then at least I know it's not far off. Right now, other than some minor aches and pains, I feel like I could sustain pregnancy for another month! I'd be surprised if I went into labor right now, judging by how I feel.

But better that than feeling terrible for weeks and weeks, I guess. I should be happy to feel good, yeah?

Mmf.

Okay, I'm off in search of food. I'll write again later. Have a good morning, everybody.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:53 AM

February 12, 2007

Something in the Water

Oh, I meant to post a happy congratulations to my sil, Amy, who is expecting her 3rd bebe in September! And also my full condolences that she will experience late pregnancy in the hottest part of the summer. In the South. The poor thing. But at least her cravings will hit when she can get lots of good, fresh veggies, including ripe tomato sandwiches, oh my! Consequently, this will be the 13th grandchild on my husband's side. Whoa! Prolific bunch, they are. Check us all out at Christmas!

Posted by WonderGirl at 7:40 PM

Week at a Glance

Good morning, all. 'Sup? Everybody ready to take on another week? I think I am. I'd like to reserve judgement on that until we see how it shapes up, though.

This afternoon, I have an appointment with the midwife. Unfortunately, I am lugging along the crew, which is a minor inconvenience I am not looking forward to. I will once again be using the Mommy Glare and Lollipop approach, and hopefully that will suffice. Also to do today, find some place that has tax forms, call the pediatrician, and pick-up diapers. Fun, fun, fun.

Wednesday is storytime at the library and Valentine's Day. That actually is fun, no sarcasm there.

Thursday, all three kids have doctor's appointments, and probably shots. Bah.

Friday, early celebration of HeroBoy's 4th birthday at Chuck E. Cheese. Hoorah! Pizza! And scary, robotic puppets!

Saturday, King Pen's parents are coming into town, and taking Czarina and HeroBoy with them when they leave Sunday, which I have mixed feelings about. I hate sending them away, but will appreciate the break at the same time.

So there ya have it, my week in a nutshell. At any point, the baby is invited to make it's appearance. Maybe? Hopefully? Please?

Well, I need to go get some breakfast and maybe a cup o'joe, too. I'm feeling kind of cranky this morning, and that's no good for anybody! Just ask the kids. They've been shooting nervous glances over here since I growled out of bed an hour ago. Poor dears. I need to go have an attitude adjustment, or nobody is going to have a very good day. So, coffee it is.

Okay, more later, maybe. Have a happy Monday, folks!