I really didn't think it would be that bad. After all, LB had been to the commissary. JC had been to the commissary. They have gone together, in one of those kid-friendly rocket ship carts. But I think those days are over... no, I know those days are over.
Today was the most humiliating trip to the commissary I've ever experienced. After getting the requisite rocket ship cart, we entered into the produce department. Despite pointing out that there were two steering wheels, the boys immediately starting pushing each other and fighting. I should have stopped right there. I should have left the empty cart in the middle of the aisle. I've done it before, it's no big deal. But I pushed on, because we were low on milk and eggs and veggies and fruit, etc.
By the end of the produce aisle, after only chipping away at my list slightly, there was yelling and crying and general arguing going on. I still pressed on, determined to get the olive oil and milk on my list. By the end of the shopping, both boys were behaving so terribly that I had begun to lose my mind and was haphazardly throwing random stuff in my cart (Frozen ravioli? Sure! Two packages of Ziploc bags? Sure! Batteries? Why the hell not!).
But my embarrassing nightmare didn't end there. Since we had that stupid rocket ship cart, which only fits down handicapped aisles, we had to wait behind a line of no less than five people. That was the tipping point. There was hair pulling and biting and huge tears. I tried my best to intervene, but ended up taking LB out of the cart after he bit JC's hand. Then, LB threw one of the biggest, hyperventilating tantrums I've ever seen a kid throw.
One cashier must have felt sorry for me (or was just plain sick of listening to the screeching... I, for one, was) and opened another check out lane just for me. She said she had four children, but that's all I remember hearing. I don't even remember the check out at all. I was grasping LB's arm, lest he kick another cashier, or punch another bagger, or bang his head on the ground. I remember handing over my credit card and tipping the bagger. That's about it.
(May I remind you, my readers, that this child is nearly four years old and still throwing the most horrific temper tantrums known to man?)
On the way home, I was feeling the grips of sanity slip away, so I self-medicated with a Crunchwrap Supreme and a root beer (oh, how I wished it was a real beer). Shut it, Jillian Michaels, it was tasty and I deserved it. Once we arrived at home, both boys went immediately to their rooms and have been there all afternoon... I'm pretty sure they're both sleeping now.
I, however, have been in a foul mood ever since and feel the need to punch the world in the nuts. So, I'm asking you, my readers, to please provide a horrific tale of your children / nephew / niece / dog / whatever so I can feel a little bit better knowing that my children aren't the only ones capable of making me curl up into the fetal position, wishing for the day to just be over already.
11/30/11
11/28/11
More fail
My 3 year old just accused me of being Santa. I told him that Mommy and Daddy will buy him a Christmas present, but Santa brings the other presents.
"But you're Santa, Mommy."
*sigh* Parenting FAIL.
I did straighten things out ("Mommy doesn't have a red suit, right? Mommy doesn't grow a beard, right?... Kid, don't answer that one... Mommy doesn't wear a Santa hat, right?"..... "Hmmmm.... yeah, okay!"), but it broke my mommy heart.
"But you're Santa, Mommy."
*sigh* Parenting FAIL.
I did straighten things out ("Mommy doesn't have a red suit, right? Mommy doesn't grow a beard, right?... Kid, don't answer that one... Mommy doesn't wear a Santa hat, right?"..... "Hmmmm.... yeah, okay!"), but it broke my mommy heart.
Gee, this holiday season is full of fail!
First, it started with Halloween, when JC wouldn't wear the hat for his pumpkin costume and wouldn't let me stuff it. He ended up looking like a deflated jack-o-lantern, but whatever.
Then, for Thanksgiving, that stupid chocolate cream pie, which should be renamed chocolate cream soup... or perhaps should just never be mentioned again.
Now, my stocking stuffers (which I stupidly decided should be homemade) are not coming together nicely. I can't go into detail, since some of my readers will be receiving them, but don't you worry, I will try again!
I guess I shouldn't dwell on the stuff that failed. Our shopping is done, and except for a few deliveries, all the presents are wrapped. I do have to get Hubby a gift, but thankfully I have some time to find what I'm looking for. And, our tree is all put up and the house is (for the most part) decorated.
How is everyone else's holiday season shaping up??
Then, for Thanksgiving, that stupid chocolate cream pie, which should be renamed chocolate cream soup... or perhaps should just never be mentioned again.
Now, my stocking stuffers (which I stupidly decided should be homemade) are not coming together nicely. I can't go into detail, since some of my readers will be receiving them, but don't you worry, I will try again!
I guess I shouldn't dwell on the stuff that failed. Our shopping is done, and except for a few deliveries, all the presents are wrapped. I do have to get Hubby a gift, but thankfully I have some time to find what I'm looking for. And, our tree is all put up and the house is (for the most part) decorated.
How is everyone else's holiday season shaping up??
11/25/11
Chocolate cream pie, why must you ruin my Thanksgiving??
Turkey Day went very well this year. We had an enormous bird, and all the sides turned out great. Even the turkey cupcakes were a hit with the kids. But that stupid bane-of-my-existence chocolate cream pie totally flopped.
Like, literally. It didn't even set enough to qualify as pudding. The top had thicken a little, but when I cut into it, it oozed everywhere. So disappointing!! :( It's Hubby's favorite dessert, and somehow every single damn year, I manage to mess it up. I've tried countless recipes, all of which do not meet Husband Approval (and some, for very good reason... like this year's pie). I still have not come to terms with my inability to make one. I will. I will make one. And it will be delicious.
I think I've become a little bit neurotic and obsessive about it. I told Hubby that I will be baking a pie every single day in December until it comes out right. I am just that determined to not be defeated by something which should be so ridiculously simple.
Anyway, the sweet potatoes were my favorite! Mashed with cinnamon, nutmeg, and agave.... sooooo yummy! And thankfully, after having to scrap the first one from using the wrong kind of canned milk, the pumpkin pie turned out delicious, too. Overall, I think the food was very good!
Hubby's mom, sister, and the kiddos came over, and the boys were really loving that! LB had a little bit of a tough time sharing, but intervening seemed to help before things escalated. I also came up with a bubble theory for him. He hasn't quite grasped the concept of "personal space", so I told him to pretend that everyone is inside their own bubble. That's their space, and you can enter their bubble when they ask you to. I'm not sure if it's sunk in, but he really seemed to like the whole bubble analogy.
Last night, Hubby did the whole Black Friday thing, and he was good! We're all done, except for small stocking stuffers, which won't be hard to find. It's nice to get that knocked out early, since we'll be looking at a PCS after the holidays (going to ship our car, ugh.... it's the best choice, but the most expensive one).
Now, he's fast asleep after being up all night, and the kiddos and I will be getting the house all decorated for Christmas, yay! :) I'm very excited for this year- we got the boys a few things that they have been talking about for months. Can't wait to see their faces when they unwrap them Christmas morning. :)
I hope you all had good Thanksgivings!!! Except you, GA, because I know that you were sick, therefore not having a good day (why must 2011 mess up all your fave holidays??). But I hope the tryptophan helped you recover!
Like, literally. It didn't even set enough to qualify as pudding. The top had thicken a little, but when I cut into it, it oozed everywhere. So disappointing!! :( It's Hubby's favorite dessert, and somehow every single damn year, I manage to mess it up. I've tried countless recipes, all of which do not meet Husband Approval (and some, for very good reason... like this year's pie). I still have not come to terms with my inability to make one. I will. I will make one. And it will be delicious.
I think I've become a little bit neurotic and obsessive about it. I told Hubby that I will be baking a pie every single day in December until it comes out right. I am just that determined to not be defeated by something which should be so ridiculously simple.
Anyway, the sweet potatoes were my favorite! Mashed with cinnamon, nutmeg, and agave.... sooooo yummy! And thankfully, after having to scrap the first one from using the wrong kind of canned milk, the pumpkin pie turned out delicious, too. Overall, I think the food was very good!
Hubby's mom, sister, and the kiddos came over, and the boys were really loving that! LB had a little bit of a tough time sharing, but intervening seemed to help before things escalated. I also came up with a bubble theory for him. He hasn't quite grasped the concept of "personal space", so I told him to pretend that everyone is inside their own bubble. That's their space, and you can enter their bubble when they ask you to. I'm not sure if it's sunk in, but he really seemed to like the whole bubble analogy.
Last night, Hubby did the whole Black Friday thing, and he was good! We're all done, except for small stocking stuffers, which won't be hard to find. It's nice to get that knocked out early, since we'll be looking at a PCS after the holidays (going to ship our car, ugh.... it's the best choice, but the most expensive one).
Now, he's fast asleep after being up all night, and the kiddos and I will be getting the house all decorated for Christmas, yay! :) I'm very excited for this year- we got the boys a few things that they have been talking about for months. Can't wait to see their faces when they unwrap them Christmas morning. :)
I hope you all had good Thanksgivings!!! Except you, GA, because I know that you were sick, therefore not having a good day (why must 2011 mess up all your fave holidays??). But I hope the tryptophan helped you recover!
11/22/11
Apparently, I party harder than Stephen Baldwin.
So, my NYC weekend- it was eventful! And very fun. I began the trip by meeting my sister after she got out of work and having dinner with one of her coworkers, R-jaya. We all talked and laugh and had a good time. R-jaya is very fun to hang out with and has a really good head on his shoulders. After dinner, T and I went to see Wicked, my Christmas present from Hubby! It was fantastic... unbelievable. The singing, the set, the costumes, everything was amazing! And I loved the little references to the Wizard of Oz- very nice touch.
Saturday, we met up with Y and her son for brunch, then let the little guy roam around Central Park for a bit. He's a really cute baby, and eats so much! I guess I'm just used to my little picky birds, but he seemed to love everything on the table. T and I went shopping for a bit and I met her boyfriend, Elephant, for the first time. After T's string of bad boys (and not bad in a good way, but really just assholes), I was so excited to see if he was a nice, normal guy, and he was. I approve. :) For the rest of the afternoon, we went to a convention center that was featuring AKC show dogs. You could interact and pet all the breeds! So cute- I loved the German Shepherd. And I visited the Akita booth just for GA. :)
Saturday night was very interesting. T and I met up with some of her friends and we went to eat at a tapas place. Maybe I'm totally spoiled because I've had tapas in Spain, but they were not very authentic. Same with the sangria... a little too... American. Anyway, after dinner, we went to the Sullivan Room, which had some house music and a few people break dancing. So fun! I had my first vodka and Red Bull... um, actually I had, like, six. They didn't hit me until it was too late, and I knew I was in for a rough night. When we left, we got a slice of pizza. I used the bathroom there, then totally puked. Ugh, I know, gross. My sister was right with me, thank god, because she prevented me from peeing on my pants (I don't know why I thought I could pee standing up). The cab ride home was a blur to me, but I do remember puking again as soon as I opened the door. Needless to say, I won't be having vodka & Red Bulls for awhile.
Sunday was a late morning. T's boyfriend had stayed the night, so the three of us ate brunch, then took off for downtown. On the way downtown, Elephant told us that while we were in the bathroom at the pizza place last night, Stephen Baldwin was waiting outside the bathroom door. We were taking so long that he ordered a slice of pizza and left. Stephen Baldwin... one of the most party-hardy guys of Hollywood, was waiting on me to finish puking. So the joke for the rest of the day was that "you know you've hit rock bottom when your partying is interfering with Stephen Baldwin's."
T had a surprise that afternoon- she took me to the Mandarin Oriental Hotel and got us both hot stone manicures. So relaxing. They had these huge chairs that resembled chaise lounges... I think she and I laid there for an hour talking! After that was done, we did a little West Elm shopping, then headed back for her place so I could head home.
Overall, super fun weekend! I checked a bunch of things off my bucket list- saw Wicked, partied like a rock star in NYC, strolled through Central Park, pet show dogs, got a super swanky spa treatment, and met my sister's friends (finally!). I could have done without the vodka, but surprisingly I didn't feel that terrible the next day. I'd post pictures, but wouldn't you believe that I forgot the camera in her apartment the entire weekend?? I think she took some cell pics, so if I get those, I'll post them.
I hope you all had a good weekend! :)
Saturday, we met up with Y and her son for brunch, then let the little guy roam around Central Park for a bit. He's a really cute baby, and eats so much! I guess I'm just used to my little picky birds, but he seemed to love everything on the table. T and I went shopping for a bit and I met her boyfriend, Elephant, for the first time. After T's string of bad boys (and not bad in a good way, but really just assholes), I was so excited to see if he was a nice, normal guy, and he was. I approve. :) For the rest of the afternoon, we went to a convention center that was featuring AKC show dogs. You could interact and pet all the breeds! So cute- I loved the German Shepherd. And I visited the Akita booth just for GA. :)
Saturday night was very interesting. T and I met up with some of her friends and we went to eat at a tapas place. Maybe I'm totally spoiled because I've had tapas in Spain, but they were not very authentic. Same with the sangria... a little too... American. Anyway, after dinner, we went to the Sullivan Room, which had some house music and a few people break dancing. So fun! I had my first vodka and Red Bull... um, actually I had, like, six. They didn't hit me until it was too late, and I knew I was in for a rough night. When we left, we got a slice of pizza. I used the bathroom there, then totally puked. Ugh, I know, gross. My sister was right with me, thank god, because she prevented me from peeing on my pants (I don't know why I thought I could pee standing up). The cab ride home was a blur to me, but I do remember puking again as soon as I opened the door. Needless to say, I won't be having vodka & Red Bulls for awhile.
Sunday was a late morning. T's boyfriend had stayed the night, so the three of us ate brunch, then took off for downtown. On the way downtown, Elephant told us that while we were in the bathroom at the pizza place last night, Stephen Baldwin was waiting outside the bathroom door. We were taking so long that he ordered a slice of pizza and left. Stephen Baldwin... one of the most party-hardy guys of Hollywood, was waiting on me to finish puking. So the joke for the rest of the day was that "you know you've hit rock bottom when your partying is interfering with Stephen Baldwin's."
T had a surprise that afternoon- she took me to the Mandarin Oriental Hotel and got us both hot stone manicures. So relaxing. They had these huge chairs that resembled chaise lounges... I think she and I laid there for an hour talking! After that was done, we did a little West Elm shopping, then headed back for her place so I could head home.
Overall, super fun weekend! I checked a bunch of things off my bucket list- saw Wicked, partied like a rock star in NYC, strolled through Central Park, pet show dogs, got a super swanky spa treatment, and met my sister's friends (finally!). I could have done without the vodka, but surprisingly I didn't feel that terrible the next day. I'd post pictures, but wouldn't you believe that I forgot the camera in her apartment the entire weekend?? I think she took some cell pics, so if I get those, I'll post them.
I hope you all had a good weekend! :)
11/18/11
Happy Friday!!
I am about to embark on a super-fun weekend with my sister, yay!! I'm sure I'll have plenty to say and show you all when I get back, so have a happy weekend!
11/16/11
What a half hour can do
BEFORE:
AFTER:
Much happier. Side note, I need a trim.
What can you do in a half hour?
What can you do in a half hour?
11/15/11
Jinxed myself
I recently wrote a post about how I wish I had our house back, that I was sick of the banging done by the siding guys. That's all done with, and it looks beautiful, and it certainly is warmer in here, but I had to laugh at this.
We had a plumber come to take a look at the pipes in the basement. Something about containing the asbestos. The guy was down there maybe two minutes and said, "No friggin way, I'm not touching that stuff." Our landlord hired an environmental clean-up team who stopped by today. They said there was more work to be done than originally thought, and that we will probably have to leave the house for several days while they work.
So yes, I got my house back, only to be told that I can't live here. Oh, the irony.
We had a plumber come to take a look at the pipes in the basement. Something about containing the asbestos. The guy was down there maybe two minutes and said, "No friggin way, I'm not touching that stuff." Our landlord hired an environmental clean-up team who stopped by today. They said there was more work to be done than originally thought, and that we will probably have to leave the house for several days while they work.
So yes, I got my house back, only to be told that I can't live here. Oh, the irony.
11/14/11
What if...
What If....
What if I were to get pregnant?
I would laugh hysterically.
What if I could have any job in the universe?
Hm, I'd pick one that lets me do something amazing while getting paid a ridiculous amount of money... probably Anthony Bourdain's job.
What if I had the day to myself?
I don't know what I would do- it's just never an option for me! I'd probably do the kind of shopping that preschoolers can't, like Yankee Candle (have you ever taken two preschoolers to a Yankee Candle? I'm surprised they didn't break everything in the store). Maybe get a massage. Definitely go do something I've never done before or go visit someplace like NYC.
What if I could get married all over again?
Well, I'd certainly keep the groom! :) But I don't think I'd change much... except the bridesmaid dresses. I'd probably just give them the color and let them pick what they wanted to wear (per my approval, of course).
What if I could live anywhere in the US?
Wow, I get to actually decide where to live? The government doesn't dictate it for me? I can't imagine, haha. Probably someplace on the east coast. It really feels like home every time we're stationed here.
What if you could have any talent in the world?
I've always wondered what it would be like to be the strongest woman on the planet. I'd totally kick some ass.
What if you met me in real life?
You'd find out how much of a geek I really am!
What if I went back to school?
It's a real possibility. Probably accounting, although I have this idea of being an ultrasound technician. Can't decide... accounting would make me more money (I think), but lately I keep coming back to ultrasound technology. Any thoughts??
What if money weren't an object?
I'd travel EVERYWHERE and Hubby would get out of the Navy and we'd just live our lives.
What if I could meet one celebrity?
Brad Pitt- I want to see if he's as handsome in real life, or if it's just good lighting and good photography.
What if I could shop at one store for the rest of my life?
White House Black Market... I kinda need the body first, but if I had a butt ton of money, that would be much easier to accomplish. I hope this doesn't include groceries...
What if I could choose any pet?
I love dogs, but given our present situation of moving all the friggin time, I can't see it happening until Hubby gets out of the Navy. So right now, no pets. But eventually, definitely a dog.
What if I could go on a trip right now?
Europe. ANYWHERE in Europe. Especially Italy or London.
What if I could go on a trip right now?
Europe. ANYWHERE in Europe. Especially Italy or London.
What if I had to choose between a house cleaner and professional chef?
No question, house cleaner. With these two boys who barely eat but make huge messes, that would be the best choice.
What if I had the option to get plastic surgery?
I'd get a nose job and a tummy tuck. The tummy tuck is out of necessity, really. But the nose job is totally vain, although something I'd been considering since high school.
11/12/11
Husband may be outta town, but my bed's not empty
Get your mind outta the gutter- it's not what you think!
The boys both have croup. JC is only running a fever, but LB's voice is totally shot in addition to a fever, and his breathing sounds like he should be on a ventilator. They've been like this since Tuesday, so I figured they'd get better soon.
Wrong.
Hubby went to NYC Friday morning to visit some friends this weekend. When he's gone & the boys are in bed, I relish in watching brainless TV or fluff movies, sipping some tea or hot chocolate in peace, and enjoying the silence of the house. I have zero guilt about being completely selfish with my time. But last night was not what I was expecting.
I was getting into a Friends marathon on TV when I heard LB's barking cough. Then, I heard his little, squeaking voice, "Mommy! Help me! I'm scared!"
I knew that my me-night was over, but didn't realize to what degree. I turned off the TV, put my mug on the table, and went into his room. I snuggled with him and rubbed his back. When I tried to leave, he flipped out and clung to me, so I decided to stay in his bed until he fell asleep. Two hours later, I carefully left his room, got into my pjs, and flopped into my bed.
Sometime around midnight, I heard him coughing and crying again, but this time he was making his way to my room. He climbed into bed with me and stayed there until 9:30am this morning.
It was really sweet. This little boy who hates physical affection and never wants to be hugged or held actually wanted to snuggle with me. And even though his preferred position for a few hours was laying across my neck, I loved it. He took a potty break, and when I carried him back to bed, he clung to my chest and fell asleep right where he was.
I thought about when I was little and sick with strep (which was all the friggin time). I'd lay on my dad's chest like that, and it was the most comfortable place in the entire world. It really made me happy that I could comfort him like my dad used to comfort me.
It was 9:37am when we all finally woke up / decided to get up. A long night, but a very affectionate one. We'll see how tonight goes when Hubby is back- I'm thinking three's gonna be a crowd!
The boys both have croup. JC is only running a fever, but LB's voice is totally shot in addition to a fever, and his breathing sounds like he should be on a ventilator. They've been like this since Tuesday, so I figured they'd get better soon.
Wrong.
Hubby went to NYC Friday morning to visit some friends this weekend. When he's gone & the boys are in bed, I relish in watching brainless TV or fluff movies, sipping some tea or hot chocolate in peace, and enjoying the silence of the house. I have zero guilt about being completely selfish with my time. But last night was not what I was expecting.
I was getting into a Friends marathon on TV when I heard LB's barking cough. Then, I heard his little, squeaking voice, "Mommy! Help me! I'm scared!"
I knew that my me-night was over, but didn't realize to what degree. I turned off the TV, put my mug on the table, and went into his room. I snuggled with him and rubbed his back. When I tried to leave, he flipped out and clung to me, so I decided to stay in his bed until he fell asleep. Two hours later, I carefully left his room, got into my pjs, and flopped into my bed.
Sometime around midnight, I heard him coughing and crying again, but this time he was making his way to my room. He climbed into bed with me and stayed there until 9:30am this morning.
It was really sweet. This little boy who hates physical affection and never wants to be hugged or held actually wanted to snuggle with me. And even though his preferred position for a few hours was laying across my neck, I loved it. He took a potty break, and when I carried him back to bed, he clung to my chest and fell asleep right where he was.
I thought about when I was little and sick with strep (which was all the friggin time). I'd lay on my dad's chest like that, and it was the most comfortable place in the entire world. It really made me happy that I could comfort him like my dad used to comfort me.
It was 9:37am when we all finally woke up / decided to get up. A long night, but a very affectionate one. We'll see how tonight goes when Hubby is back- I'm thinking three's gonna be a crowd!
11/11/11
Angry Bitch Mode, activated!!!
It takes a lot to get me angry.... hahaha, who am I kidding, it really doesn't take much. But it does take a lot for me to yell at a complete stranger. So when AT&T decided to play hardball with me over the phone this morning, I was fully prepared to morph into Angry Bitch mode.
Where's my mask and cape?
After about an hour of yelling and arguing and general unpleasantness, I finally spoke to Ann, who is the only one that didn't sound like she lived in Pakistan, and the only one who spoke like a human being, instead of spitting out prefabricated responses like some robot. She listened to my argument as a whole, not just my current situation, and realized that I was wrongfully charged $149. I really hope someone does something nice for her!
It's sad to think that "customer service" is neither for the customer, nor actual service. It's really just a living machine, regurgitating policies in an attempt to assuage the people they are robbing. But fortunately I have someone in my corner to fight for me....
ANGRY BITCH MODE TO THE RESCUE!!!! FIGHT FOR JUSTICE!!!!
(I think I've been watching too much Power Rangers Samurai...)
Where's my mask and cape?
After about an hour of yelling and arguing and general unpleasantness, I finally spoke to Ann, who is the only one that didn't sound like she lived in Pakistan, and the only one who spoke like a human being, instead of spitting out prefabricated responses like some robot. She listened to my argument as a whole, not just my current situation, and realized that I was wrongfully charged $149. I really hope someone does something nice for her!
It's sad to think that "customer service" is neither for the customer, nor actual service. It's really just a living machine, regurgitating policies in an attempt to assuage the people they are robbing. But fortunately I have someone in my corner to fight for me....
ANGRY BITCH MODE TO THE RESCUE!!!! FIGHT FOR JUSTICE!!!!
(I think I've been watching too much Power Rangers Samurai...)
Milspouse Friday Fill-in #64
1. Freedom is the ability to protest those that gave it to you. Thank a soldier, don't spit on them.
2. Veterans are often not recognized in a way that reflects their sacrifice.
3. This country is full of successes and pitfalls... hopefully those pitfalls (*ahem* theeducationalsystem *ahem) can be remedied.
4. Veteran’s Day means taking a moment to thank all that have served in the US military.
5. A hero is "hero (male) and heroine (female) came to refer to characters who, in the face of danger and adversity or from a position of weakness, display courage and the will for self sacrifice—that is, heroism—for some greater good of all humanity", courtesy of Wikipedia... that really sums it up. By the way, Wikipedia felt the need to add this disclaimer: "Not to be confused with heroin." Really, Wikipedia, really....
Happy Veteran's Day, everyone- please take the time to thank a serviceman. And if you're married to one, head over to Wife of a Sailor to link up!
*Special thank you to: my Grandpa S, who served in the US Army in WWII and earned a purple heart; my Grandpa B, who served in the US Army as a medic; my Uncle J, who served with the US Army in Desert Storm; my Pepere-in-law, who served with the US Navy in WWII; my Uncle-in-law B, who served with the US Army in Viet Nam; my Uncles-in-law T, P, & C, who all served in the US Navy; and, of course, my most favorite serviceman, my hubby, who has served in the US Navy for 16 years! Thank you, thank you, thank you for everything that you have done for me, my family, my friends, and my country!!
2. Veterans are often not recognized in a way that reflects their sacrifice.
3. This country is full of successes and pitfalls... hopefully those pitfalls (*ahem* theeducationalsystem *ahem) can be remedied.
4. Veteran’s Day means taking a moment to thank all that have served in the US military.
5. A hero is "hero (male) and heroine (female) came to refer to characters who, in the face of danger and adversity or from a position of weakness, display courage and the will for self sacrifice—that is, heroism—for some greater good of all humanity", courtesy of Wikipedia... that really sums it up. By the way, Wikipedia felt the need to add this disclaimer: "Not to be confused with heroin." Really, Wikipedia, really....
Happy Veteran's Day, everyone- please take the time to thank a serviceman. And if you're married to one, head over to Wife of a Sailor to link up!
*Special thank you to: my Grandpa S, who served in the US Army in WWII and earned a purple heart; my Grandpa B, who served in the US Army as a medic; my Uncle J, who served with the US Army in Desert Storm; my Pepere-in-law, who served with the US Navy in WWII; my Uncle-in-law B, who served with the US Army in Viet Nam; my Uncles-in-law T, P, & C, who all served in the US Navy; and, of course, my most favorite serviceman, my hubby, who has served in the US Navy for 16 years! Thank you, thank you, thank you for everything that you have done for me, my family, my friends, and my country!!
11/10/11
Gloomy
Today's not the best day. Five years ago would have been our first child's birthday. I still think about it, what went wrong and why. I clearly remember everything about those days, from the two pink lines to the bottle of vicodin. I still harbor anger toward Charleston Naval Hospital, and it's something I just can't let go. And now, on every November 10th, I think about what would have been.
11/9/11
The most ridiculous mail ever
Envelope #1: Credit card offer with a particular bank. Funny, because we already have that exact credit card with them.
Envelope #2: Another credit card offer for a Cincinnati Reds card, with the slogan of "Nobody's a bigger Reds fan than you!"... uh, we already bank with you, and we're Red Sox fans.
D'oh!
Envelope #2: Another credit card offer for a Cincinnati Reds card, with the slogan of "Nobody's a bigger Reds fan than you!"... uh, we already bank with you, and we're Red Sox fans.
D'oh!
Can I have my house back now?
Granted, all this work was very much needed, but I'm getting sick of having people work on the house.
For the past week, we've had the siding replaced. They also put up insulation (because there was none!), which meant LOTS of banging on our walls, from 7:30am to 5pm, every day. Which meant, no nap for the little guy. But, it did mean a much warmer house.
We also had someone clean and inspect our furnace, which wasn't bad, but he was dirty and the house kinda smelled like heating oil after he left.
Today, a plumber will be here, for who knows what. Hubby set this appointment up. And he'll be here at 5pm, just when the siding guys leave.
*sigh* I know old houses need work, but just once I'd like to have some quiet (with two preschoolers, ha, fat chance) and some privacy. I had to wake up with Hubby just to get a shower in before the siding guys set up camp in our backyard... which is where the bathroom faces. I can only imagine getting out of the shower and seeing several men outside the window.
For the past week, we've had the siding replaced. They also put up insulation (because there was none!), which meant LOTS of banging on our walls, from 7:30am to 5pm, every day. Which meant, no nap for the little guy. But, it did mean a much warmer house.
We also had someone clean and inspect our furnace, which wasn't bad, but he was dirty and the house kinda smelled like heating oil after he left.
Today, a plumber will be here, for who knows what. Hubby set this appointment up. And he'll be here at 5pm, just when the siding guys leave.
*sigh* I know old houses need work, but just once I'd like to have some quiet (with two preschoolers, ha, fat chance) and some privacy. I had to wake up with Hubby just to get a shower in before the siding guys set up camp in our backyard... which is where the bathroom faces. I can only imagine getting out of the shower and seeing several men outside the window.
11/4/11
Adventures in couponing
Walgreens
Glade Sense & Spray: $6.99 + $1 in-store coupon + $3 MC = $2.99
Zarbee's Children's Cold Drink: $8.99 + $1 in-store coupon + $1 MC = $6.99 (their website has it listed for $8.49, so I spent a tiny bit more than I anticipated)
Breathe Right strips, 10 ct: $6.29 + $2 in-store coupon + $2 MC = $2.29
Pediasure Sidekicks: $6.99 + $1 in-store coupon + $1 MC = $4.99
CVS (1st order)
Schick Quattro for Women: $8.99 + $2 MC = $6.99 + $4 Extra Bucks
Crest Pro Health Sensitive: $2.99 + $1 MC = $1.99 + $1 Extra Bucks
CVS (2nd order)
3 Trident Layers gum: 3/$3 + $1 MC = 3/$2, or $.66 each
Colgate for Kids: 2/$3 + $1 MC = 2/$2, or $1 each
Swiffer Dry Refills: $3.99 + $2 MC = $1.99
Swiffer Wet Refills: $3.99 + $2 MC = $1.99
PLUS, $5 in Extra Bucks from my previous order... this order came to just over $3, with a savings of $21.69! By far the best deal today!
Family Dollar
Betty Crocker cookie mix: $2 + $1/2 MC = $1.50 each (I misread the advertisement... the smaller packages were $1 each, which would have made them $.50 each after the coupon, but the coupon only applied to the larger packages)
Dawn Dish Liquid: $.85 + $.20 MC = $.65
Huggies Snug Dry Diapers: $9.50 + $2 MC = $7.50
Shop Rite
Oral B Toothbrushes: $1.79 + $1/2 MC = $2.58/2, or $1.29 each
Gold Peak Iced Tea: $5/2 + $.75 MC x 2 + $.75 MC x 2 = $2/2, or $1 each
Betty Crocker Cake Mix & Frosting: I don't really remember how this transaction went, but I know that I pretty much got the frosting free when I bought both... which will be great for turkey cupcakes this Thanksgiving!
Here's my opinion on this shopping trip- Walgreen's is kinda sketchy, trying to advertise prices that aren't really true unless you have the coupons. I'm not impressed. CVS totally stole my heart and I am now a loyal CVS customer. Their Extra Bucks program is amazing! I have mixed feelings about Family Dollar. I think if I read the ads more carefully, I won't be disappointed. And Shop Rite's double coupon policy is just fantastic. I left all my other coupons home, so I wouldn't be tempted to coupon on the fly (which always ends up costing me more money).
What kind of deals have you gotten this week?
Glade Sense & Spray: $6.99 + $1 in-store coupon + $3 MC = $2.99
Zarbee's Children's Cold Drink: $8.99 + $1 in-store coupon + $1 MC = $6.99 (their website has it listed for $8.49, so I spent a tiny bit more than I anticipated)
Breathe Right strips, 10 ct: $6.29 + $2 in-store coupon + $2 MC = $2.29
Pediasure Sidekicks: $6.99 + $1 in-store coupon + $1 MC = $4.99
CVS (1st order)
Schick Quattro for Women: $8.99 + $2 MC = $6.99 + $4 Extra Bucks
Crest Pro Health Sensitive: $2.99 + $1 MC = $1.99 + $1 Extra Bucks
CVS (2nd order)
3 Trident Layers gum: 3/$3 + $1 MC = 3/$2, or $.66 each
Colgate for Kids: 2/$3 + $1 MC = 2/$2, or $1 each
Swiffer Dry Refills: $3.99 + $2 MC = $1.99
Swiffer Wet Refills: $3.99 + $2 MC = $1.99
PLUS, $5 in Extra Bucks from my previous order... this order came to just over $3, with a savings of $21.69! By far the best deal today!
Family Dollar
Betty Crocker cookie mix: $2 + $1/2 MC = $1.50 each (I misread the advertisement... the smaller packages were $1 each, which would have made them $.50 each after the coupon, but the coupon only applied to the larger packages)
Dawn Dish Liquid: $.85 + $.20 MC = $.65
Huggies Snug Dry Diapers: $9.50 + $2 MC = $7.50
Shop Rite
Oral B Toothbrushes: $1.79 + $1/2 MC = $2.58/2, or $1.29 each
Gold Peak Iced Tea: $5/2 + $.75 MC x 2 + $.75 MC x 2 = $2/2, or $1 each
Betty Crocker Cake Mix & Frosting: I don't really remember how this transaction went, but I know that I pretty much got the frosting free when I bought both... which will be great for turkey cupcakes this Thanksgiving!
Here's my opinion on this shopping trip- Walgreen's is kinda sketchy, trying to advertise prices that aren't really true unless you have the coupons. I'm not impressed. CVS totally stole my heart and I am now a loyal CVS customer. Their Extra Bucks program is amazing! I have mixed feelings about Family Dollar. I think if I read the ads more carefully, I won't be disappointed. And Shop Rite's double coupon policy is just fantastic. I left all my other coupons home, so I wouldn't be tempted to coupon on the fly (which always ends up costing me more money).
What kind of deals have you gotten this week?
Happy Frickin' Friday
To Do:
Wake up early to look somewhat presentable since the siding guys are here at 7:30am, banging away at the house.
Do laundry.
Go to the bank as soon as it opens. Withdraw money with plenty of change.
Mail letter to my sister-in-law and buy large envelope for housing application (which has yet to be signed... Hubby, I'm talking to you!).
Pick up deals at Family Dollar, Walgreens, CVS, Shop Rite, and Stop & Shop.
Get home in time for the oil company to clean & inspect the furnace, between noon and 3 (gotta love broad windows of ETAs... not). Pay them a ridiculous amount of money from the cash withdrawn.
While oil company works, pack duffle bags for the weekend with laundry that is hopefully done by then.
Busy day. Sooooo, maybe I should get off Blogger and start it!
Wake up early to look somewhat presentable since the siding guys are here at 7:30am, banging away at the house.
Do laundry.
Go to the bank as soon as it opens. Withdraw money with plenty of change.
Mail letter to my sister-in-law and buy large envelope for housing application (which has yet to be signed... Hubby, I'm talking to you!).
Pick up deals at Family Dollar, Walgreens, CVS, Shop Rite, and Stop & Shop.
Get home in time for the oil company to clean & inspect the furnace, between noon and 3 (gotta love broad windows of ETAs... not). Pay them a ridiculous amount of money from the cash withdrawn.
While oil company works, pack duffle bags for the weekend with laundry that is hopefully done by then.
Busy day. Sooooo, maybe I should get off Blogger and start it!
11/2/11
It lives
No matter how sick it gets, my dad brings it back to life. It's been nearly thirty years now- way past its prime. I keep convincing my dad that it's time to let it go and just allow it to die peacefully. But he's attached and continues to do whatever he can to keep it going.
My mom isn't too happy about it. She's ready to move on, and to be honest, it's been a thorn in her side for several years now. I don't blame her- it's loud and smelly and always needs a lot of attention. But it just won't die... a true testament to its kind.
I was ready when my dad told me "It's time". When we went to their house, I expect to see a lifeless shell of what had been. Instead, my dad held on to it, and during that weekend had given it some TLC, and found and fixed the real problem. Just this past Saturday, he said it was doing just fine and it was completely healthy. I was worried it would drop dead at a very inopportune time, but it didn't. The thing just won't die.
Long live The Van.
My mom isn't too happy about it. She's ready to move on, and to be honest, it's been a thorn in her side for several years now. I don't blame her- it's loud and smelly and always needs a lot of attention. But it just won't die... a true testament to its kind.
I was ready when my dad told me "It's time". When we went to their house, I expect to see a lifeless shell of what had been. Instead, my dad held on to it, and during that weekend had given it some TLC, and found and fixed the real problem. Just this past Saturday, he said it was doing just fine and it was completely healthy. I was worried it would drop dead at a very inopportune time, but it didn't. The thing just won't die.
Long live The Van.
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