Llama Mama Drama

Our little musician!

2011-12-02T17:04:00.002-05:00

Graem is such an incredible piano player. She gets lessons every Monday and recently had a recital at her teacher's house. She did perfect. The think we really like about the way she learns piano is that she does the practicing by herself and she really enjoys it.

We swore we'd never be *those* parents that were pushy when it came to a sport or instrument. We are just so glad to see a budding little musician in front of our eyes!

I even looked at danelectro. It looks great and I'm sure it's something she'd really enjoy.

36 weeks....yikes!

2011-12-02T17:03:00.003-05:00

Well, the time is almost here for us to meet the boy. It's going super fast and I know at any time I will get the call. To say the least...I'm on high alert!

I've also told work no more traveling. Kinda bummed because I had a cool project meeting in NYC that is happening in December that I'm going to miss out on...but...Shawna would kill me if I missed this!?

The best.

2011-11-01T12:25:00.003-04:00

We went to the new Vietnamese restaurant this weekend and it was incredible! Not only was the food great but the staff was friendly and best of all - they deliver!

We picked up menus and plan on ordering this weekend.

The shocking part about restaurants in our area is that restaurant funding is really limited. 1/4 restaurants succeed and I think that banks locally are tired of taking the chances only to see something not succeed and go belly-up.

I'm just glad that somehow the new Vietnamese and Indian restaurants have found funding because they have been great contributions to the dining selections in town!

31.5 weeks

2011-11-01T12:25:00.001-04:00

Holy moses. I have tons to do and every day that I look at my to-do list Shawna's added more.

I was able to get tons done last week but none of it was on my to-do list. Damn!

It's starting to get cold out and I know before long we're going to have snow on the ground and have to worry about snow tires and plowing the front driveway.

Brutal winters.

2011-10-13T16:16:00.001-04:00

We pay way too much for energy here in New York. I read that new jersey energy is half of the cost. The frustrating part is that we really don't have many options. NYSEG essential is divided into two different sections so it appears that you have options but when it comes down to it...you end up writing the check to the same company!

At some point I would love to be able to power the house on solar and/or a wood burning stove.

Of course, setting that up takes time and money too!

Graem's date night.

2011-10-13T16:15:00.000-04:00

Graem is heading to watch J play soccer tonight. Afterwards his mom is going ot take him and Graem out to eat at a nice restaurant. I think it's important to be able to do activities without Emmy and without us.

Especially, since she hurt her ankle and is having a hard time adjusting to being on crutches again.

Swimming!

2011-10-13T16:13:00.001-04:00

We have an underwater camera and it's pretty good.

However, when you're actually swimming there's no way to take good photos and do activity.

I saw an awesome set of camera goggles the other day and I thought instantly that my dad would have loved this concept!

Not only did he love doing scuba but he would have loved the idea of not having to bother with a handheld camera.

The ankle.

2011-10-13T16:12:00.001-04:00

Graem hurt her ankle AGAIN over the weekend. She was jumping on the trampoline and sure enough we just heard a cry. It was *that* cry. Shawna knew it the second it happened.

We took her to the hospital and sure enough --- she sprained it. It's a good thing she didn't break it again but she's still in a cast for two weeks and crutches.

Poor kid...at the great age of 6 she has a bum ankle.

Hectic times!

2011-10-13T16:10:00.002-04:00

It's hard for me to think about the holidays but I know I really need to with the baby on the way. If he comes early we could be rushing to do last minute shopping for the kids.

That would also mean that they don't get anything that is on their wish lists!

I've thought about the next few months and even thought about flowers delivered around valentines day! Having a six week old during that time I'm sure their will be more on my mind than just sending flowers.

Maybe if I do it now I won't be a bad wife!

80 days...

2011-10-13T16:09:00.000-04:00

til the boy makes his appearance. HOLY SHIT. That's assuming that he comes on his due date too and not early.

Shawna has been nailing out her to do list. Me on the other hand...

Not so much.

Meds.

2011-10-07T08:13:00.002-04:00

I'm on a few medications. Over the years I must admit that I trust my doctor's opinion and typically when she writes a script I go immediately to the pharmacy to get the prescription filled.

This can be dangerous.

WHen I think about it...my doctor could be one that's easily persuaded by the pharmaceutical companies and this could be part of a points system that pays for her family trip to Hawaii!

The Crestor lawsuit was brought about when people started realizing that the medication produced by AstraZeneca was causing severe liver damage.

Unfortunately, many times you don't realize these issues until it's too late and the damage has gone too far.

It makes me wonder why it takes so long to get these "miracle drugs" approved by the FDA. Don't the effects take hold in the trials? Or are they simply ignored because the benefits outweigh the risks.

Ready or not...

2011-10-07T08:11:00.003-04:00

Here he comes!

The time is getting closer and closer for the baby boy to arrive! Clothes are washing. We have yet to pack bags or load up the car.

It's so funny how things change between kids. When we were pregnant with Graem this was all done by 20 weeks. With Emmy I think we waited til 26 weeks!

Now this baby...I'm guessing by 34 weeks we might start thinking about packing!

Baby/House checklist.

2011-09-13T15:42:00.003-04:00

Well, the list has been made of things we must do before the boy comes. We have to finish doing the moldings in the kitchen and touching up paint. Must put handles on cabinets. I've also been thinking about garage floor coating. Our garage floor has some cracks in the foundation and it seems like when it rains it's not sealed and water can hang out there for a few days.

I figured with the upcoming winter it might be a nice way to seal the garage and while I'm at it I might even think about sealing the driveway too.

The fun never stops...

2011-09-13T15:41:00.001-04:00

So is it me or do other families do around 2 loads of laundry a day?

The other night I noticed that our sheets had an oily sheen and that was the sign that it was time to wash them! Shawna does use a towel for each shower so she's a big contributor to our laundry woes.

Then there's Emmy who has to have dry clothing at all times. Which means that she typically goes through a few sets of clothes a day too.

I heart my garmin!

2011-09-13T15:37:00.002-04:00

I've had my handheld GPS for a few years and it works great! One of my friends got the newer one and it's amazing how much it picks up...even on the cloudiest and shaded of days!

The other day I was looking at my biking magazine and saw that they offer biking GPS and garmin gps golf courses!! How crazy. You wouldn't think that you'd need one for golf courses because most courses actually offer those drawings on the back of the card.

However, it would be nice to know where the tee is so that you can choose the right club.

Either way, my golf game is so bad that even if I had a live visual and tape measure of the course...I'm afraid it wouldn't help.

1 1/2 more weeks...

2011-09-13T15:35:00.000-04:00

and we're in Florida! I have one more deadline before we leave and I can't wait. I've been working my ass off and I'm exhausted. Not to mention, I feel like I never see Shawna or the kids. It's brutal going in on a Sunday when I know that they are enjoying one of the last sunny days that we'll get!

On a good note, we're in the process of paying off all of our debt for the kitchen. The kitchen has a few odds and ends to finish up. Shawna finally go through to the supervisor at Arietta and they are sending us a brand new range hood blower thing.

Had I known...

2011-08-25T13:29:00.001-04:00

A few years ago when my dad passed away we ended up taking his Lexus back to the dealer. My dad had all of the extras on his new Lexus including lexus gx custom floor mats!

Recently, our friends got rid of their minivan and they offered up the custom snow mats. They are so great! Not only do they fit perfectly in the van...but they are also so deep and hold so much water.

Now, if I could just get the juice stains and sticky goldfish out of the carpet...

Today's to-do list.

2011-08-25T13:28:00.000-04:00

Clean basement room
Wash sheets
Clean bathroom
Put away clothes
Clean living room
Clean dining room

Pick up Graem
Pick up Emmy

Go to library and pay for library book.

Figure out a meal for tonight for kids.

What next??

2011-08-25T13:26:00.002-04:00

The other day I was at home when we had an earthquake. I think that I was watching television but I can't be sure. The next thing I hop online to find out that there was an earthquake and most people in my area noticed it!

With all of the hurricanes and earthquakes happening it makes me wonder if tornado shelters aren't such a bad idea!

A few months ago a tornado hit about 4 miles from here and it was really a mess. I don't care about my items...I just want to make sure my family is safe.

No more work for me!

2011-08-25T13:24:00.000-04:00

I'm taking off til Wednesday of next week. Alex and Dom are getting here later tonight and I can't wait to see them. It's been way too long! Not to mention, they haven't seen our new house yet.

I really don't know how much longer I can work. I'm getting BIG. The belly is stretching and I can't even see my feet!

Last Friday I messed up my back leaning over to get a pen that had dropped on the grass. That took two chiro appointments and a massage therapist appt. I didn't even make enough to pay for the appointments last week!

Sump and pump.

2011-08-25T13:22:00.003-04:00

When we first moved in we realized that the sump pump in the basement was broken. I would go down and wiggle it around and it would work. Then one day I wiggled it too much. The piping broke!

We looked at industrial pumps and ended up going with a highly recommended pump that was a little bit more expensive.

The one thing that I constantly worry about is WATER. Whether it's coming into our basement or a pipe busting or toilet overflowing.

The money was well spent because the pump works great and we have never had an issue!

21 weeks!

2011-08-25T13:21:00.001-04:00

It's starting to go fast now. In 19 weeks or so...we're going to have a baby boy!

Shawna's been feeling the baby inside for a few weeks and starting Sunday he started kicking on the outside!

He typically wakes up around 8pm and stays up for a few hours. The rest of the day he's pretty laid back.

It will be interesting to see if he stays that way when he gets here!

Jammin'

2011-08-11T18:18:00.002-04:00

Today as I was cleaning the house I hooked up with our ipod docks. I used the first one to charge the iphone and then I used the other to run the ipod and listen to some great music that I had!

We have the BOSE dock and we can plug our iphone or ipod into it. The clarity is PERFECT and much better than you would get from a CD or on the radio.

TWO ROOMS LEFT

2011-08-11T18:17:00.001-04:00

SO unmotivated now. I have been cleaning the house all day long for the cousins and I'm friggin' EXHAUSTED!!!

I have the dining room and living room and then I'm done-o.

Obviously, I'm on the computer and would rather be doing blog stuff than cleaning those last two rooms!

Uh oh.

2011-08-08T16:16:00.002-04:00

We all know that your body isn't the same after having a baby. Now that Shawna's pregnant with the boy... It's hitting her. She's had the occassional accident during the first trimester when she was getting sick all the time. I'm not just talking a little bit. I'm talking full puddle on the floor. Poor girl.

Now that the baby is getting bigger and she's running to the bathroom there have been times when the smallest sneeze or bending over can leak urine.

She might think incontinence products are for older people but until her kegels build up a bit...it might be necessary!

The girls...

2011-08-08T16:15:00.001-04:00

are getting so big. Graem will start 1st grade in less than a month! How did this happen? She has gone to some great camps this summer and she's ending it with 2 different sciencecamps!

Emmy has been going to daycare three days a week and she's made so many great friends. Plus, I think it's nice for her to have a place that has rules and where they do tons of fun things.

Shawna's still tredging along at work and figures that at some point she'll just take it week by week when she gets further along!

Summertime!

2011-08-08T16:02:00.002-04:00

Our summer has been intense and it's not even close to being over! We have cousins visiting this week and then Alex and Dom are coming in a few weeks!!

We have friends who go RV'ing every summer. The rented one last year and are seriously considering purchasing one for future years. They love it! She was looking for rv insurance quote and was shocked to find some good and affordable quotes online.

Maybe when the baby gets bigger we can do something like this. Of course, I hear the bickering from the girls ... I can only imagine what it's going to be like with three little ones in the backseat!

19 weeks!

2011-08-08T15:52:00.002-04:00

So now it's going fast. In 21 weeks....we're having a baby. Damn. YIKES. We still have to get the carseat and stroller. Shawna even made sure that we're pretty stocked with cute boy clothes toO!

We get another ultrasound at 24 weeks and I sure hope that he's still a HE!

Smokin'

2011-07-21T13:17:00.000-04:00

A few years ago Shawna was really into cigars. In fact, within minutes of being in London she was walking down the street smoking a Cuban cigar!

These days there will be none of that! With two kids and a baby on the way - I can't imagine smoking cigars and relaxing is in our near future!

On a side note. We went for a nice date night last week and had a great time. It's bizarre not to have to apologize to a waitress and enjoy a meal.

What a concept?

Almost 17 weeks....

2011-07-21T13:16:00.002-04:00

Wow...this is going fast. I just worked some on the registry and realized we need tons of stuff!?!

We got rid of all of our baby gear last time thinking that we weren't going to have any more babies. Damn.

Now we have to buy new stroller, carseat, and some more goodies.

Testing, testing, 1-2-3

2011-07-16T17:25:00.002-04:00

Our home theatre is a piece of junk. We got it a few years ago and it had good ratings when it first came out. However, over time the ratings went downhill. When you put a DVD in half of the time the volume goes out completely.

I've looked into a new home theater system and I think the best route is going to be to purchase something online. Not only can you get a great deal but it's so easy to have it delivered right to the house instead of dealing with a retail store!

Must work more.

2011-07-16T17:24:00.003-04:00

So we're at a stopping point with the kitchen. We have to wait til next week until the countertop people come. Then we wait for 4 weeks until the granite comes in!

Then I think we're at a standstill until we can afford the hardwood floors. Shawna had it out with the local guys and rightfully so. They kept coming back and asking for more money every few weeks.

All in all, I think they probably had the best price and would have done a good job.

He's growing up!?

2011-06-23T16:48:00.001-04:00

So my brother is getting older. I totally remember a time when he used to wear hip hop clothing and tennis shoes every where he went. These days he actually wears suits and nice clothes to work.

The last time he came to visit he worse some expensive flip flops and looked like an adult.

That's just weird...

Dinner...

2011-06-23T16:46:00.002-04:00

We're out of options. OUr kitchen is still in bad shape. We have countertops and at cabinets. I'm going to try to set up the sink so that we can wash dishes and at least we can do minimal stuff.

We might actually put the stuff in the cabinets too.

So much to do...so little time.

The time has come...

2011-06-23T16:41:00.003-04:00

Shawna has been wearing the same sandals for years! I think it's time for her to start looking at womens sandals. I've tried Keens and really like them but I don't like that it takes long for them to dry after they get wet.

I've also had Tevas in the past and they do great with water. Plus they offer pretty good arch supports.

Maybe I'll just wait til the fall and get them on super clearance!

Is it Friday yet?

2011-06-23T16:39:00.001-04:00

We have a pretty booked weekend. Birthday party Friday night, Saturday morning, and then Sunday we're headed to Philly. We have yet to pack or even clean the house, or write the list for the boys who will be wtaching the girls.

So much to do....

I need an assistant.

Maybe it will work again?

2011-06-19T16:20:00.002-04:00

I went out the other day and purchased some new cables for the home theatre system. At first we thought it was the crappy home theatre system we had. Then I looked in the back and saw the expensive Monster cable we purchased was bare.

So after purchasing a new cable I hope that the sound actually works better. Of course, I've also been eyeing 5.1 speakers! Right now we have the ones that have came with the home theatre and they do the job.

Our kitchen...

2011-06-19T16:18:00.002-04:00

OR LACK THERE OF!

Each week I figure that I'll check in and post a weekly update!

So we have no kitchen. The guys tore the soffits out, patched up the holes, and the cabinets are sitting in the garage ready to put in! Margot worked hard painting the ceiling and she only has one more coat left!

Hopefully, by next week we'll be picking out granite slates and we'll have a counter top in a few weeks from now!

Help is on the way...

2011-06-11T16:44:00.001-04:00

We have a friend who has a little boy who was affected my a medication drug. It seems like the FDA didn't do all of the testing it should have and they put the medication on the market way too fast.

Just this morning...
I was watching television and a commercial came on for Topamax lawsuit. Supposedly, this medication was prescribed to many children and adults and the effects were unknown early. After years of useage they discovered that it had bad side effects that caused many people to become very sick.

One of my friends went to: O’Hanlon, McCollom & Demerath – Personal Injury Lawyers – 808 West Avenue, Austin, TX. 78701 – 512-494-9949

They had great results and really liked the personal care that they received with their case. They were dealing with personal injury from a car accident and were very happy with the results.

After dealing with the insurance companies for months they were getting absolutely nowhever. When they called the office my friend was happy that they took over EVERYTHING. They didn't have to worry about the stack of bills or contact with the insurance and their threatening attorneys.

Charged

2011-06-10T10:02:00.003-04:00

My kids go through so many batteries. We have gameboys and leapfrogs. At one point we were good about aa rechargeable batteries. Then for some reason we switched over to regular batteries. It feel so wasteful though because we can go on a long trip and go through 6-10 batteries. Of course I know that those batteries just end up in a dumpyard.

Kitchen!

2011-06-10T09:59:00.001-04:00

Let the renovations begin! Yesterday the contractor came and we negotiated the work. I think we ended up getting a good deal and I'm so glad that we were able to get him to put in the cabinets. He's going to do everything with the exception of flooring and painting.

The good thing is that in a few weeks we will have a new kitchen!!

I really can't wait.

Tools.

2011-06-10T09:55:00.002-04:00

So with Father's Day coming up I have my eyes on a few things...including tools and a new iPhone! I looked at some industrial bearings the other day. My friend Dave has a whole set and I've been borrowing when I need them. However, it'd be nice not to have to go to his house every time.

Now for the phone....I hope Shawna has taken enough of my hints!!!

10.5 weeks!

2011-06-10T09:54:00.003-04:00

Well, we're officially 25% into the pregnancy. We only have 30 more weeks or so to go! I'm excited but we have so much going on. My brother has been visiting and we had a great time. They started demo on the kitchen and it's crazy. For some reason we don't have lights in the back rooms. Hmmm...

Oh yes...

2011-05-30T21:25:00.001-04:00

Bring on the baby gifts!

We have nothing. We didn't think we were having more kids so we gave it all away or sold it!

Today we went to the store and looked at carseats and strollers. So many choices. We've narrowed it down to two and I think we might go with the Peg Perego again!

Away!

2011-05-30T21:24:00.002-04:00

Tomorrow is going to be a bitch of a day. I'm on the road most of the day for a short meeting. Then it's turning around and coming back home.

Ugh....after being on the road for 6 hours today with two kids...I feel like I need a day off!

Where's my vacation?

Another job?

2011-05-15T09:50:00.002-04:00

With another baby on the way I've been thinking about ways to make some extra money. I will more than likely work extra hours. However, I've wondered if maybe another profession would make sense.

Springfield beauty school offers first rate education and allows people to take full advantage of their education.

We have friends that have their own business and they do great for themselves. They have a beautiful house on thelake, make their own hours, and still have a passion for what they do.

RegencyBeauty.com has some great information on how to get started! It really is easier than you might think!

This blog post was based on information provided by Blogitive. For more information, please visit Blogitive.com or contact Regency Beauty Institute – 1415 East Battlefield – Springfield, MO 65804

Bad skin.

2011-05-05T14:43:00.002-04:00

So I've always had bad skin. The excema over the years has continued and despite all of the meds that I've been put on...it just doesn't help. I've thought about creatine and actually heard really good things about it.

At this point I'm starting some new meds I figure I'll let them get in my system first and then in the fall I might want to try some new topical creams to get my skin under control!

01/01/2012

2011-05-05T14:42:00.003-04:00

That's when our new baby is due to get here. We timed it great with one exception...

I want the tax deduction!

The tricky part is...I have to adopt this baby before the first of the year to get the deduction!

Would it be so bad for me to try and get Shawna to have the baby right at 37 weeks?

Back in the day...

2011-05-05T14:39:00.001-04:00

when Shawna was trying to get pregnant with Emmy she was put on weight loss meds. They did a great job and were just what she needed to lose a good amount of weight.

I actually checked out some of the fenphedrine reviews and I was happy to see that they've been tested more and are safter than ever!

I've been working out 4 times a week and despite my best efforts I can't seem to drop weight. Maybe I should try some weight loss meds for a few months to get me started?

Yeah...it worked.

2011-05-05T14:38:00.001-04:00

So...looks like we're having a baby.

It worked?

I'm still shocked and I've almost had two full weeks for it to sink in.

Wow..

The deck.

2011-04-04T17:22:00.002-04:00

When Shawna's on bedrest in a few weeks I plan on working on the deck. At least digging the holes and getting approved by the city. I figure it will probably take a few weekends to get it finished.

I'm glad we've already taken care o outdoor lighting when the electrician was here last. We have a nice light on the deck side and we also hae a motion sensor light on the deck too.

The front area has a motion sensor light and a nice brushed nickel mission style lamp that goes with the house.

My little piano player!

2011-04-04T17:21:00.001-04:00

Graem is taking piano lessons and she's awesome! She's starting to learn songs where each hand plays a different part of the song.

I can't believe how fast she's been able to pick this up. She has lessons every Monday and she actually likes to practice daily!

You should see how excited she gets when the teacher introduces a new section of a song!

Pimples!

2011-03-29T08:44:00.003-04:00

I get the worst pimples. They get big but never form. Then I try to get them out and it's just a real mess. Totally disappointing.

The other night we were just talking about our favorite pimple. I like white heads and Shawna likes the explosive ones.

I read about how to get rid of whiteheads and it's really helped!

Now if I could just get rid of my wrinkles I'd be all set!

Hop on Pop!

2011-03-29T08:43:00.000-04:00

Again!

Last night I read Emmy "Hop on Pop" and I was sure that she would love it like Graem. She thought it was okay. I told her that we had a video to go along with the book. She seemed interested.

So today I popped in the video.

She has absolutely NO interest and just wants to watch Wonder Pets.

It's so funny how these kids are so different!

Broken phone

2011-03-29T08:34:00.002-04:00

So I'm just about done with my iphone. We went to the apple store the other day and they had me update thinking that it would fix the problem. Of course, it didn't.

We live 1 hour from an apple store and there's really no help in sight.

I've even thought about switching over to a blackberry phone. At least when or if it breaks down I can just take it to the local carrier and have it fixed in house instead of driving an hour each way!

The gym.

2011-03-29T08:33:00.003-04:00

Well, I finally did it. I joined the gym! I've only been talking about it for 5 years or so now. Sunday I went and actually paid the fee and joined! Now I just have to wake up and go.

This morning I woke up due to my neighbors stupid ass broken car's muffler. I figured since I was up I might as well go to the gym and make something of my time.

Hopefully, I can drop some pounds and tone up a little bit!

If you're hooked...

2011-03-29T08:30:00.002-04:00

You might as well look at the electronic cigarette wholesale!

I saw these in the mall a few weeks ago and they're charging a fortune for the electronic cigarettes.

I have a friend who uses these and it really helps with her past tobacco addiction. In fact, she's almost totally replaced her cigarette habit with the electronic cigarettes.

Not only is it saving her money but it's also saving her lungs!

Sickie.

2011-03-29T08:29:00.003-04:00

This morning I was on the toilet and Margot was in the shower. All of a sudden Graem runs in and tells us that Emmy just puked. Of course, Margot and I tell each other our situation and I finished pooping and went to rescue Emmy.

Lord have mercy.

Now the girl is on the couch with the pukey bucket next to her watching a days worth of cartoons.

Poor kid.

We're getting older...

2011-03-14T19:57:00.002-04:00

I keep wondering when we get older if we'll go back to boats and motorcycles. Being a parent really changes everything and there are things that I did in my early 20's that I wouldn't consider now because I just can't die!

Since everything in Texas is bigger there’s no shock that it can take you 30+ miles to go to work one way. Maybe people decide to go with a motorcycle due to the great weather and effeciency and affordability.

I’ve heard that finding a motorcycle accident attorney Austin can be hard to find and my friend mentioned going through - O’Hanlon, McCollom & Demerath – Personal Injury Lawyers – 808 West Avenue, Austin, TX. 78701 – 512-494-9949.

On the road again...

2011-03-13T14:21:00.002-04:00

We've been looking at good vacation ideas. Our friends actually rented an RV for the summer and took their time going down to Florida. They had a great time. WE've thought that it would be incredible to go cross country and make our way to California.

I saw that they are offering some great deals on rv loans. The cost of renting an RV was really high and quite honestly if you have decide you want to do some long trips a few times a year then it just pays to buy your own!

Disney?

2011-03-13T14:20:00.000-04:00

It was so nice to see my uncle and aunt over the weekend. We talked about an upcoming vacation to Orlando. They might be able to use their timeshare and get us a nice place. Then we want to do Disney!

The bad thing is I think we'll have to pull Graem out of school for a few days.

What do they really learn in 1st grade, anyway?

A year ago...

2011-03-05T10:20:00.002-05:00

we moved into our house. I hooked up our home theatre system and tried to hide the cords.

As I'm writing this post I'm looking at our system and see every single one of the cords. It looks horrible. I've tried to hide them but really can't figure out how to. I need some wire management!!

I figure after I get the kitchen up and running I can worry about all of the little things that are still pending.

This weekend I'm working on finishing the basement panels since my uncle and aunt are coming to stay with us next weekend.

Nothing like family visiting to get me motivated!

Avatar

2011-03-05T10:19:00.001-05:00

We're almost finished with the Avatar cartoon series. It's pretty good. It's been something fun for me and the girls to do. Especially when we're snowed in!

Now I've got to look for a different series that's not overly violent and will keep both kids occupied!

A quote?

2011-03-05T10:15:00.002-05:00

A few years ago we were looking at life insurance for myself. I was shocked to find out that the quote I received DOUBLED when they got my medical information.

I've since looked online and found some good information about life insurance. www.trustedquote.com seems to be an informative and great website that provides affordable life insurance.

Since I'm the breadwinner of the family and with the kids and Shawna only working part-time I think it's essential to make sure we are taken care of if something were to happen to me. I'm glad to see that there's an affordable way to do that now!

Weekend!

2011-03-05T10:14:00.001-05:00

This week has been brutal. SO much work!

Plus...no vacation to look forward to. I feel like it's good to have a vacation or even a couple of days planned. It feels like there's at least some light at the end of the road.

I think I might take off some time when Graem is out of school.

Fatty.

2011-02-26T21:58:00.002-05:00

I never want to eat again.

Eating out has killed me these past few days. I've gotten to the point where everything tastes way too sweet and even if I had a good meal I really couldn't appreciate it because all I want is vegetables and salad!

This could be the beginning of a good diet for me!

I looked at some fat burner supplements at the mall the other day and I might give them a try too. Anything to help with my appetite!

cabinet shopping = bust.

2011-02-26T21:55:00.002-05:00

We thought we'd go to Philadelphia and come back today with some cabinets picked out for a fraction of the cost that we'd get them at Lowes. Boy were we wrong.

We got to the cabinet place and the guys were really nice. The counter guy was a gay and had no idea what he was talking about. The rest of the guys there were orthodox Jews. Very helpful and friendly. THey were upfront with us and said that their cabinets wouldn't be the best fit for us because our kitchen sucks.

No, they really said that because we have a whole wall of 18" base cabinets that their cabinets really can't be modified and are specific measurements.

Soooooo...we're back to the drawing board. We went back to Lowes and met with the kitchen guy there. Super nice guy. We came up with a design and then he didn't save it so we don't know the figures. WE're hoping that with all of the incentivies that we can be under $5,000. I don't know....

SO FAT.

2011-02-26T21:53:00.001-05:00

I managed to gain two pounds while we were in Philly. No matter what I do every time we travel we overeat. Then we eat crappy food at rest stops and fast food restaurants. By the end of the trip noone wants to eat and we're all constipated.

I looked at the best supplements for weight loss and I'm totally thinking about starting up.

I really would love to lose about 15 or 20 pounds and so it's not a huge amount but I feel like if I could get a jump start and a nudge that I would probably be set.

Back to the grind.

2011-02-26T21:52:00.000-05:00

So we spent way too much money on vacation. Perhaps it was the $375 dinner at Marimoto. Damn, that was DELICIOUS!!! And worth every penny. Or the $150/night at the hotel. But it all adds up. We also went to the mall and invested a small fortune on clothing for my work and the kids.

Now it's back to the grind to try and pay off some of these credit card bills and we hae to get back to saving for this kitchen renovation!

Enhanced?

2011-02-26T21:50:00.002-05:00

So I've always wondered about male enhancement drugs. There's tons of them out there and they all claim to the do the trick.

Are guys really trying these? Do women really care?

And everyone really wants to know - do they work? Do they make everyone feel better at the end of the day?

Comments, please.

The laundry lives.

2011-02-26T21:50:00.001-05:00

So we got back from vacation and I swear there's 20 loads of laundry in the basement. Shawna is down to her sweat pants and I don't even think I have bras for tomorrow.

Guess we're not leaving the house tomorrow until we've done some laundry!

Pimps.

2011-02-26T21:48:00.000-05:00

Typically when I am about to get my period I get some pretty serious acne. It's my pre-cursor if you will. I get the type of frustrating pimple that never really comes to a head but just lingers under the surface and hurts.

I've thought about trying tretinoin . My friend uses it and has had some good luck. I've also seen tons of commercials and heard good things about some of the all natural products that are out there too.

I guess since my acne is so isolated I should probably just deal with it and stop being a baby!

Home.

2011-02-26T21:46:00.000-05:00

Today we got back from Philly and I was sure the second we drove up that we'd see water coming out of the windows or something bad. We walked in and everything was fine. No water, not busted pipes, and a cat that was very happy to see us.

In fact, it was actually warm in here despite the fact that I had set the furnace to a vacation setting.

Almost dead.

2011-02-15T12:16:00.001-05:00

I'm talking about our laptop computer. It's one the way out. When Emmy was little she broke the screen. We ordered a replacement from Ebay but each day it seems to get a little bit lighter. At some point you aren't even going to be able to see it!

I've been looking at discount laptop computers and at this point I don't know if I want to go that route or hold out for an iPad. They're so skinny and light. Plus, Shawna has a laptop for work and so if we ever need a bigger/better computer, we can always bring her laptop with us.

A few days off...

2011-02-15T12:14:00.001-05:00

Next week we're heading to Philadelphia. We're going to eat at Marimoto's restaurant and I'm so excited. I've already thought about what I'm getting and I just hope that the kids can stay entertained enough for me to enjoy the meal!

We figure that we will pack a bag of goodies to keep them busy.

Were you wronged?

2011-02-03T14:01:00.002-05:00

It's always good to know a good attorney. We're very fortunate that our best friend, L, is an attorney and has taken care of our adoption and legal work.

However, I have a friend who in Texas that was shopping for a Texas wrongful death attorney and there were thousands to choose from!

What it all came down to for her is that she wanted someone who had a reputation for specializing in wrongful death. She did her homework and interviewed attorneys before she made her decision.

In the end, although, she was unable to have her father alive... at least she had peace about the situation and knew that financially she would be taken care of.

Twenty years later my friend has completed college, lives in a beautiful house, and has a successful job.

Light it up!

2011-01-30T16:18:00.002-05:00

We were looking for some pendant lighting for the kitchen at the local home store. We found absolutely NOTHING. We've started looking online but it's so hard to tell what the quality is and how it will look.

Our friend, L, got all of her lighting online and it's great stuff. Plus, they had great customer service too. She received a piece that was broken and not only sent her the piece but sent her a whole new fixture.

Housewives of BH.

2011-01-30T16:17:00.000-05:00

Seriously? Shawna's watching this crap and it's HORRIBLE. They constantly fight and in the end they kiss and make up. Now we're watching the reunion show. More fighting, tears, and I'm sure they're going to make up in the end.

*barf*

Outta here.

2011-01-30T16:15:00.002-05:00

We are still looking for a getaway for Graem's winter break. We've been looking at caribbean cruise deals and at one point they were SO cheap. But we figured that prices would drop a little bit more before vacation.

Now of course, we're seeing the prices go up! I'm going to keep looking for sunny vacations and hope that I can either get a good deal to Orlando or a cruise.

We've got to get out of here!

Weekend off.

2011-01-30T16:13:00.001-05:00

I love it when I have a weekend that we actually get out and do fun stuff. Today we went out to Corning and went to the Museum of Glass. It was so much fun. Shawna and Graem did a cool wind chime and then we went to this great Indian buffet that came highly recommended by our Indian friends in Ithaca.

Tomorrow. Work.

Scoped.

2011-01-19T08:35:00.002-05:00

The other day S went on a job site and saw that the guy had a couch in his living room looking out over a field and a rifle on the couch. That's right. He was shooting at deer from his living room window.

I think she mentioned he had some Nikon rifle scopes. It's interesting that all of the camera companies also specialize in microscopes, rifle scopes, and telescopes. I guess once you have the idea down and magnification then you can use it for all kind of different uses.

Snow.

2011-01-19T08:32:00.002-05:00

It's snowing outside and I think we're usppose to get another inch or so. Of course, we really need new tires for the Matrix. It skids through intersections and I pray everytime I step in the car that I'm going to get to my destination safely.

Sausage

2011-01-19T08:25:00.001-05:00

Today I got dressed and I swear I looked like a sausage. I tried on three different shirts and all of them fit bad. I've looked into thermogenic fat burners. It seems like for the little weight loss that I need it might be the perfect solution for me.

What would also help is combining a workout or two into the week. I know I should do it but already I don't know where my time goes and I feel like half the time I'm chasing my tail.

I just need 6 more hours in each day and I think I might be able to fit in everything I need to do.

Meetings.

2011-01-19T08:22:00.001-05:00

Work is kicking my butt. It doesn't matter how much I work I feel like I'm always behind. The good thing is I know it's job security and even during these hard economic times I know I'll still have a job.

Tonight for Shawna's birthday I'll be at a meeting. We did Indian food last night and it was yummy. She also ordered a jacket for herself from patagonia so her present is covered too.

Hang in there computer!

2011-01-09T14:29:00.001-05:00

Our Dell laptop is on it's last leg. I hope that it can make it another year but I'm just not sure. We replaced the display and week by week it gets dimmer and dimmer and I know that there's going to be a day when we can't see anything at all!

I've been looking at top netbooks and after we get the house finished I'm going to take the dive and get a new computer!

Vacation?

2011-01-09T14:28:00.000-05:00

I'm trying to figure out a time to take some vacation. I have a ton saved up and I really want to take a week off or so and spend with the kids. I keep looking online for some cheap deals during the fall breaks but nothing has been that cheap.

We even talked about heading to NYC for a few days and spending time with my uncle and aunt.

Playroom done!

2011-01-09T14:26:00.003-05:00

We finished up the playroom last week. It looks incredible. Of course, we have to work on patching up some of the trim. Then we have to work on saving money so that we can put new carpet in the playroom.

We ended up going with a nice laminate flooring in the playroom closet. It works perfect and actually feels warmer now.

The kids have been spending so much time in the room playing and it's nice to have space that is just for them.

Too too much.

2011-01-09T14:25:00.000-05:00

I've been working so much it isn't even funny. Yesterday SHawna spent the day at work. Now it's my turn to work for most of the day. I'm exhausted and I haven't had much vacation this year at all.

Last night we had a bathroom explosion and finally fixed the clogged toilet at 11:30pm. Sucked.

Happy Birthday!

2010-12-28T22:09:00.002-05:00

Graem is six years old today. It's hard to believe that six years ago today we were holding our newborn daughter in the hospital. I think the best gift was when our friend tried to send chocolate gift to the hospital!

Not only was it the perfect gift for hungry mamas... but it was something a little bit different! You can only bring home so many flowers and baby outfits. We like the gift of chocolate best!

Back to the grind.

2010-12-28T22:07:00.001-05:00

Today I had to go into work. I was totally bummed because I really wanted to take the day off for Graem's birthday. In fact, when I came home she had a horrible belly ache and ended up not eating. She didn't even want to do her birthday cake.

You know she's sick when she asks to go to bed...

Cold feet.

2010-12-28T22:05:00.001-05:00

My feet are freezing. I don't have any good snow boots and so typically I wear my clogs or I wear my hiking boots. But my hiking boots aren't dress enough to wear to work. Maybe I'll look at some polo boots. Not only are they stylish but they look warm too!

Now I just have to find a good deal...

Playroom.

2010-12-28T22:04:00.003-05:00

Well we're doing it. We started dismantling the playroom a few days ago and now we're working on painting it. Shawna did the electrical work and then we finished painting the ceiling today. Shawna did the first coat of trim this afternoon. I think she might get to the other side of the room tomorrow. We're going to take it slow and do it good instead of driving ourselves crazy trying to get it done.

Hopefully we'll be able to get it done over the next few days!

It's time.

2010-12-09T13:36:00.002-05:00

I typically wait way too long to buy glasses. At this point my lenses are totally scratched and the frames are totally out of adjustment. I'm looking for a few pair of cheap glasses that I can buy and alternate.

I'd love to have a few trendy pair that are colored and coordinate them to what I'm wearing. I've thought about going online and looking at the opticals but I'm scared that I might get the wrong measurements, etc.

Tis the season?!

2010-12-09T13:35:00.000-05:00

I'm looking for a good gift for Shawna. Typically, if she wants or needs something she just goes out and buys it. I think she's set when it comes to clothes and she's the one that actually buys everything for everyone!

Maybe I'll just buy her the second toilet for the bathroom. I know it sounds drab but she really loves house stuff. OR...I might even splurge and get the playroom carpeted!

Bro?

2010-12-09T13:32:00.001-05:00

I'm still looking at what to get my brother for Christmas. We talked about getting each other the charge pads so that we can drop our electronics on a single pad and they can get charged.

But he might also want a football gift! He's never really been into sports but this year he's really started getting into football!

I can just see him in front of the television watching his favorite team wearing one of those tacky football jerseys!

I'm guessing he probably doesn't get many NFL games in Singapore!

It's just ThursdaY?

2010-12-09T13:31:00.001-05:00

This week has gone so slow. Tomorrow is the annual Christmas party at my work and we have yet to get gifts. I'm hoping to find something good but I haven't had any luck!

Maybe Shawna will find something over the next few days.

Saturday we're going to check out the chowder festival and then we're having dinner with friends.

Sunday I hope we can just rest. I think Shawna has intentions of PAINTING.

Give me gold, please!

2010-12-06T13:37:00.000-05:00

One thing that never loses it’s value is us silver coins! Even when our stocks are floundering you can always look to buy gold coins and precious metals to maintain their value.

US Gold Bureau offers silver, gold, and other precious metals for delivery or they will make arrangements to have your metals stored privately and securely at a bank or depository.

I didn’t realize this but US Gold Bureau is an industry leader. They sell gold in two forms: coin or ingot. The world demand now exceeds the supply demand for gold - which makes it a pretty smart investment.

Especially with the economy doing so poorly and people losing all of their investments with the stock market!

Maybe a day or two?

2010-12-06T13:35:00.002-05:00

I asked for quite a few days off of work but I got shut down. We have so much work that I can't just turn it down and not do it! Plus, I get tons of work done when noone's in the office and when I'm not getting tons of calls.

SO....Shawna's able to take off for the holidays and do kid time and I'm going to try to take off some time and spend it with the kids.

I know I'm going to be sucked into helping Shawna paint the playroom...I can just feel it!

We love TV!

2010-12-02T14:54:00.001-05:00

We absolutely love our 52" Samsung HDTV. We got it a few years ago and it's performed perfectly!! I wish I could say as much about the Samsung Blu-Ray/Home Theatre package we bought....Grrrr.

We purchased a 32" Sony Bravia for the bedroom and the picture quality isn't as good and it just doesn't look as sharp.

I'm a true Samsung TV girl and would recommend them to anyone!

Weekend?

2010-12-02T14:53:00.003-05:00

This weekend is a biggie!

We're going to head out Saturday to pick up a tree and decorate it. Shawna is taking the kids Saturday morning to music class and I'm going to put a few hours in at the office. Then we're going to meet up for lunch.

After we get the Christmas tree up we're going to try and take the perfect Christmas photo. SHould be interesting!