All the stuff going on this week with the bailout, banks crashing, etc. has pretty much reinforced my belief that Dave Ramsey has it figured out. NO DEBT, PEOPLE!
That's pretty much my answer to all of this. Standing up before the other elected leaders of our country and actually speaking the words "A $700 billion dollar loan..." ought to have these guys in Congress choking. They shouldn't even be able to get those words out. Especially when it's not THEIR money they're loaning out!
As for the rest of us... just imagine if you had no car payments or credit card debts. Would you still be as upset over the cost of gas or groceries? It might still bug you that these things cost what they do, but you probably wouldn't be sweating about how you were gonna pay for it all. If it weren't for car payments and credit cards, I wouldn't have to work. If things got tight I would just pick up some freelance work to tide us over. Life would be very different indeed. And it wouldn't have anything to do with who was in Washington.
Friday, September 26, 2008
Friday, August 29, 2008
Is it just me...
or were Sarah Palin and Tina Fey separated at birth?
I just hope Palin has the sharp-tongued wit that Fey has, she's gonna need it. I'm already seeing where Huff-Po bloggers are dreaming of a moment where Biden says something along the lines of "I know Hillary Clinton, and you ma'am are no Hillary Clinton."
Here's hoping that Palin just smiles sweetly and says, "Thank you."
Convention wrap-up
I was so determined the first night of the Dem convention to blog it like crazy, but after a few speeches it all started to sound the same: the country needs change...blah, blah, blah....McCain is just another 4 years of Bush... blah, blah, blah... we love our country, especially the men and women serving in the military (still don't know how any of them said that without choking on their organic arugula)... blah, blah, blah.
A couple of moments that really tugged at my cold, cold heartstrings:
Joe Biden said that "These are common stories among middle-class people who worked hard and played by the rules on the promise that their tomorrows would be better than their yesterdays." Who made that promise to them? No one's made that promise to me. I was always told life isn't fair, get used to it and play the cards you're dealt the best you can. Bad things happen to good people. Just ask Abel. He did everything God told him to do and his own brother turned against him. Sorry Joe, but there's no way you or anyone else can insulate the American public from future heartache and tough times.
Then last night before Obamessiah descended upon His people, they paraded a few of the "least of these" to sing His praises. One woman actually came up there and started off her spiel with "Wait until you hear what happened to me." Oh honey, do tell. And she did. She told about her husband having heart surgery (scary and tragic, yes -- unusual, not really) and then of course he couldn't work and subsequently lost his job, the true injustice of which was that (altogether now) "HE LOST THEIR FAMILY'S HEALTH INSURANCE." And she just couldn't afford the insurance, which I'm thinking may have been COBRA, on her nurse's salary. Okay, okay, stop right there! She's a nurse! If she needs a job with decent pay and health benefits, she shouldn't have a problem finding one. I worked in a Louisiana hospital as a graphic designer and I can tell you nurses were more sought-after and better compensated than we were. They could pretty much write their ticket. Guess sometimes it's easier to sit back and whine about everything than get off your butt and do something about it. Why take personal responsibility for your situation when the Dems are ready to fix it all for you? And here's the best part, you won't have to pay for it -- your neighbor will. And isn't that what he deserves what with driving around in his fancy car and sending his kids to private school? Bring him down to your level, sister, and let him feel your pain!
A couple of moments that really tugged at my cold, cold heartstrings:
Joe Biden said that "These are common stories among middle-class people who worked hard and played by the rules on the promise that their tomorrows would be better than their yesterdays." Who made that promise to them? No one's made that promise to me. I was always told life isn't fair, get used to it and play the cards you're dealt the best you can. Bad things happen to good people. Just ask Abel. He did everything God told him to do and his own brother turned against him. Sorry Joe, but there's no way you or anyone else can insulate the American public from future heartache and tough times.
Then last night before Obamessiah descended upon His people, they paraded a few of the "least of these" to sing His praises. One woman actually came up there and started off her spiel with "Wait until you hear what happened to me." Oh honey, do tell. And she did. She told about her husband having heart surgery (scary and tragic, yes -- unusual, not really) and then of course he couldn't work and subsequently lost his job, the true injustice of which was that (altogether now) "HE LOST THEIR FAMILY'S HEALTH INSURANCE." And she just couldn't afford the insurance, which I'm thinking may have been COBRA, on her nurse's salary. Okay, okay, stop right there! She's a nurse! If she needs a job with decent pay and health benefits, she shouldn't have a problem finding one. I worked in a Louisiana hospital as a graphic designer and I can tell you nurses were more sought-after and better compensated than we were. They could pretty much write their ticket. Guess sometimes it's easier to sit back and whine about everything than get off your butt and do something about it. Why take personal responsibility for your situation when the Dems are ready to fix it all for you? And here's the best part, you won't have to pay for it -- your neighbor will. And isn't that what he deserves what with driving around in his fancy car and sending his kids to private school? Bring him down to your level, sister, and let him feel your pain!
Monday, August 25, 2008
Uncle Ted
I actually found Ted Kennedy's speech kinda moving, especially when you consider that this could very well be his last public speech. I'm impressed that he was able to speak so clearly and with such composure when you know he had to feel like crap.
And I also noticed that the only one in his family who got teary-eyed was Maria Shriver Schwarzenegger -- you know the one married to a Republican. See, we're compassionate -- even if each tear did cost us like 50,000 votes for Obama.
But still, I do have to say that if you're producing a video tribute to Ted Kennedy, you don't want to open with a shot of a rippling body of water.
And I also noticed that the only one in his family who got teary-eyed was Maria Shriver Schwarzenegger -- you know the one married to a Republican. See, we're compassionate -- even if each tear did cost us like 50,000 votes for Obama.
But still, I do have to say that if you're producing a video tribute to Ted Kennedy, you don't want to open with a shot of a rippling body of water.
Madame Speaker
I'm watching the Dem Convention tonight and for someone whose title is Speaker of the House, Pelosi's not that great of a public speaker.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Obama's Requirements for VP
As the tension mounts over just who the "messiah" has picked as his running mate, let's review his requirements for the post. I've inserted my own comments in the first-person so we can all appreciate the gravity of the decision before him:
“Obviously, the most important question is: Is this person ready to be president?” (because I'm sure as hell not) he said. “The second most important question from my perspective is, can this person help me govern? (because, sweet Mohammed, I need all the help I can get) Are they going to be an effective partner in creating the kind of economic opportunity here at home and guiding us through some dangerous waters internationally? (because Michelle always handled that stuff for me, she was the one making the big bucks, it was all above my pay grade)
“Obviously, the most important question is: Is this person ready to be president?” (because I'm sure as hell not) he said. “The second most important question from my perspective is, can this person help me govern? (because, sweet Mohammed, I need all the help I can get) Are they going to be an effective partner in creating the kind of economic opportunity here at home and guiding us through some dangerous waters internationally? (because Michelle always handled that stuff for me, she was the one making the big bucks, it was all above my pay grade)
...Or You Could Just Have A Glass Of Wine And Chill
I'm reading this story where Nebraska just passed their Safe-Haven law which is the law that allows moms of infants who feel they aren't able to take care of their babies the chance to leave them at specified locations without questions or repercussions. I think the idea behind these laws is a good one because it's aimed at girls/young women who might otherwise abandon their newborns in a dumpster or field somewhere to die (question: if the babies were left at a hospital in Illinois when Obama was a state senator, would anyone there attend to their needs or would they be simply left in a soiled laundry closet until they stopped jerking around and showing signs of life? Would this be considered the equivalent of a botched late-late-late-term abortion? Should any woman at any point in her life be forced to have a biological child walking around if she no longer wanted it?)
Well the legislature in the great state of Nebraska has decided to take all those philosophical questions a step further and extend their law to parents of ALL minor children (in NE that's 19 and under, but they're saying it's "common law minors" which would be 14 and under -- whatever). Oh yes, if you suddenly decide after 10-15 years of parenting that it's just too gosh darn hard and you're tired of having to shop at Wal-Mart for everything because that's all you can afford with gas prices what they are, and you're getting nothing but rolled eyes and backtalk in return, you can drop the little (or large in the case of teens) ingrates off at the nearest SafeHaven location and wipe your hands clean of the whole ordeal.
Proponents of the bill say they're hoping that extending the child's age beyond babies will result in fewer instances of child abuse. I guess that argument works if you don't consider abandonment itself to be child abuse. I especially love this quote from the guy who introduced the legislation. To be fair it only included infants to start with, but the guy later caved to the revised age range stating, "The main interest I have is that it gives the mother or a parent another option of what to do with a child before they do something drastic."
Nice to know that if I dump off my 7-yr-old some place where she doesn't know a soul and I disappear from her life never to be seen again, it wouldn't be considered drastic. I'm sure she'd be just fine.
Well the legislature in the great state of Nebraska has decided to take all those philosophical questions a step further and extend their law to parents of ALL minor children (in NE that's 19 and under, but they're saying it's "common law minors" which would be 14 and under -- whatever). Oh yes, if you suddenly decide after 10-15 years of parenting that it's just too gosh darn hard and you're tired of having to shop at Wal-Mart for everything because that's all you can afford with gas prices what they are, and you're getting nothing but rolled eyes and backtalk in return, you can drop the little (or large in the case of teens) ingrates off at the nearest SafeHaven location and wipe your hands clean of the whole ordeal.
Proponents of the bill say they're hoping that extending the child's age beyond babies will result in fewer instances of child abuse. I guess that argument works if you don't consider abandonment itself to be child abuse. I especially love this quote from the guy who introduced the legislation. To be fair it only included infants to start with, but the guy later caved to the revised age range stating, "The main interest I have is that it gives the mother or a parent another option of what to do with a child before they do something drastic."
Nice to know that if I dump off my 7-yr-old some place where she doesn't know a soul and I disappear from her life never to be seen again, it wouldn't be considered drastic. I'm sure she'd be just fine.
Thursday, August 07, 2008
Skirting the Issue
I just saw this article and it made me think of my brother who's a big fan of kilts.
Washington Letter Carrier Going Full Kilt Ahead
Washington Letter Carrier Going Full Kilt Ahead
Happy Birthday To Me!
Just in case anyone might forget, thought I'd post a reminder that today is my birthday!
Cake, candles, and party hats for everyone!
Cake, candles, and party hats for everyone!
Monday, July 14, 2008
Bud---Wei---Ser
Just saw this story on the internet that says Anheuser's takeover by a Belgium company might give us cheaper Bud at least for a while. Well I hope so. I kinda like the summer offering of Bud Light Lime, but at about $6.50 a six-pack it's a little hard to swallow. I mean, it's not like we're talking Abita Amber here, people, c'mon!
Anheuser takeover
Anheuser takeover
Angel Food Ministries
I heard about this organization a few months ago and I had been meaning to order from them but I always forgot. Well, my MIL left me a message yesterday to see if I had heard of it. I had actually mentioned it to her a couple of times, but whatever, it reminded me to check the ordering deadline and I found out I could still order this morning from a church in our area.
Olivia and I went out and placed an order for the basic unit at $30 and then add-ons #1, 2, and 3. My total was $88 and I go back on the 26th to pick it up. I'll take some pics and report back if I think it's worth it. It would be nice to find something that will lower our food bill without eating red beans and rice every night.
BTW, they operate in 35 states through host churches and you don't have to be in a certain income group to participate.
Olivia and I went out and placed an order for the basic unit at $30 and then add-ons #1, 2, and 3. My total was $88 and I go back on the 26th to pick it up. I'll take some pics and report back if I think it's worth it. It would be nice to find something that will lower our food bill without eating red beans and rice every night.
BTW, they operate in 35 states through host churches and you don't have to be in a certain income group to participate.
Homesick kids...
NOT!!!
The kids called me Saturday for the first time in the two weeks they've been in Alabama. Vivian wanted me to send her a picture of her cat Kisses, who has now been missing since Sat. night. Nice timing, you stupid cat.
Nick wanted to tell me that he pulled out his loose tooth all by himself. That makes two teeth gone and he's only 5-1/2. He wanted me to call the tooth fairy and make sure she knew where he was.
They've had a blast, but I'll be glad to have them back this weekend. I can't believe I'm saying this, but sometimes it's too quiet without them here. On the other hand, I can go shopping and the only little one I have to worry about is strapped into the cart, unable to escape.
The kids called me Saturday for the first time in the two weeks they've been in Alabama. Vivian wanted me to send her a picture of her cat Kisses, who has now been missing since Sat. night. Nice timing, you stupid cat.
Nick wanted to tell me that he pulled out his loose tooth all by himself. That makes two teeth gone and he's only 5-1/2. He wanted me to call the tooth fairy and make sure she knew where he was.
They've had a blast, but I'll be glad to have them back this weekend. I can't believe I'm saying this, but sometimes it's too quiet without them here. On the other hand, I can go shopping and the only little one I have to worry about is strapped into the cart, unable to escape.
The Last of the Heathens
We finally set a date for Olivia's baptism, Aug 24th. Our pastor was kinda nervous at first because a) at 1-1/2, she's too young to understand why this guy is pouring water on her head in front of all these people but old enough to freak out about it; and b) he's only been ordained a couple of years so I don't think he's done too many baptisms, period.
He's been making an effort to cozy up to her when I'm working in the office. She lets him pick her up and then she puts her head on his shoulder. He's falling for it hook, line, and sinker. He now tells me how easy it's going to be.
Hahaha! I've gotta make sure someone has a videocamera.
He's been making an effort to cozy up to her when I'm working in the office. She lets him pick her up and then she puts her head on his shoulder. He's falling for it hook, line, and sinker. He now tells me how easy it's going to be.
Hahaha! I've gotta make sure someone has a videocamera.
Monday, June 23, 2008
American Kid
I just discovered the children's christian band Go Fish. This is their video American Kid. I thought it was a great way to get in the mood for the upcoming 4th of July holiday!
Their web site is Go Fish Guys
Their web site is Go Fish Guys
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Tooth Fairy Comes Through
Nick fell asleep watching tv in our bed last night, so he didn't have a chance to put his tooth under his pillow. Luckily the tooth fairy read my previous post and saw the plastic container on our counter. The tooth was replaced with $2 in quarters and then tucked under his pillow. He thought it was pretty awesome when he woke up and found the money.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
The Tooth Fairy's Second Chance
Nick came running up to me this morning in a panic and said, "My loose tooth is bleeding." Upon inspection I informed him that it wasn't the tooth that was bleeding, it was the hole where the tooth used to be.
His bottom front teeth have been loose for a month or so and when he was brushing his teeth this morning, one of them came out. At first I couldn't find the tooth to convince him of what was going on, but then I saw it on the bathroom floor. Nick scooped it up and then went outside to tell Bob the good news.
Which brings me to the tooth fairy. We don't have the most reliable tooth fairy around here. When Vivian lost her first tooth, she found her reward under her pillow the very next day. Since then, she hasn't been so lucky. Each night she would place the tooth under her pillow in a small plastic container and the next morning the container and tooth would still be there. Finally by the third morning, the tooth fairy would get her act together and all was well. Poor Vivian was always such a good sport when I would tell her the tooth fairy had e-mailed me that she was sick or otherwise unable to complete her rounds. Nick's not likely to buy into all that. He'll come up with a million reasons why it shouldn't have happened.
Here's hoping the TF does better tonight. We'll see.
His bottom front teeth have been loose for a month or so and when he was brushing his teeth this morning, one of them came out. At first I couldn't find the tooth to convince him of what was going on, but then I saw it on the bathroom floor. Nick scooped it up and then went outside to tell Bob the good news.
Which brings me to the tooth fairy. We don't have the most reliable tooth fairy around here. When Vivian lost her first tooth, she found her reward under her pillow the very next day. Since then, she hasn't been so lucky. Each night she would place the tooth under her pillow in a small plastic container and the next morning the container and tooth would still be there. Finally by the third morning, the tooth fairy would get her act together and all was well. Poor Vivian was always such a good sport when I would tell her the tooth fairy had e-mailed me that she was sick or otherwise unable to complete her rounds. Nick's not likely to buy into all that. He'll come up with a million reasons why it shouldn't have happened.
Here's hoping the TF does better tonight. We'll see.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Happy Mother's Day
Today was a wonderful Mother's Day! I went to the Southshore with Vivian and my MIL, where we met up with my sister-in-law and her two daughters. We had breakfast at a diner on Magazine and then we roamed through the flea market in the French Qtr for a while.
This was the first time I had been down there since pre-K and it was nice to see it looking like I had remembered it. Even after almost 3 years, there are still areas that look like the hurricane just hit yesterday.
Vivian got a few trinkets and then we came home and hung out with the rest of the family. Nick and Olivia were so happy to see their big sister and the three of them spent the rest of the day playing in the yard. I love watching them all play together, they're so sweet and really seem to enjoy each other's company. And I swear that every time I look at pictures of Nick and Olivia, they look more and more alike. And I can't even describe how much she adores him! She was on our swing today and he stood in front of her and "fell down" everytime she touched him. She giggled and giggled like it was the funniest thing ever and he loved being able to make her laugh.
I'm very lucky that I have 3 beautiful kids! And I'm also lucky that I have a great mom and MIL who made it all possible. If I had been given the chance to pick my family, I may not have picked exactly what I have. But that would have been my loss, which is why God didn't leave things like that up to mere mortals like you and me.
This was the first time I had been down there since pre-K and it was nice to see it looking like I had remembered it. Even after almost 3 years, there are still areas that look like the hurricane just hit yesterday.
Vivian got a few trinkets and then we came home and hung out with the rest of the family. Nick and Olivia were so happy to see their big sister and the three of them spent the rest of the day playing in the yard. I love watching them all play together, they're so sweet and really seem to enjoy each other's company. And I swear that every time I look at pictures of Nick and Olivia, they look more and more alike. And I can't even describe how much she adores him! She was on our swing today and he stood in front of her and "fell down" everytime she touched him. She giggled and giggled like it was the funniest thing ever and he loved being able to make her laugh.
I'm very lucky that I have 3 beautiful kids! And I'm also lucky that I have a great mom and MIL who made it all possible. If I had been given the chance to pick my family, I may not have picked exactly what I have. But that would have been my loss, which is why God didn't leave things like that up to mere mortals like you and me.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
A Letter to a Mouse
Dear Mr. Mouse,
First of all, let me apologize for the unfortunate incident that took place in my dining room a short while ago. I hope you understand it was never my intention to actually kill you. I merely wanted to capture you under the plastic bin and direct you towards the front door so you could escape off into the bushes. I'm afraid that in my panic as you scurried towards me my aim was off and I inadvertently pinned your waist under the edge of the bin. I would have lifted it immediately, but I did not realize your lower body was paralyzed and I was afraid you might run back under the stove.
In my defense, I gave you ample opportunity to run out the front or back door. It was obvious the cat was not a serious threat and on that note, I must say I admire your ability to escape his clutches numerous times.
I'll always remember our times together. Do you remember that first time we met? I was putting some clothes in the kids' dress-up bin and out you popped. You ran off before I could introduce myself, but you made quite an impression on me. Then that Sunday afternoon about a month later when we ran into each other at the doorway to my bedroom, not once, but twice! That was hilarious, or at least Bob thought so when I called him from my perch on the kitchen counter and urged him to come home quickly to meet you himself. I even tossed the cat into my room to keep you company in the meantime, and I was appalled he didn't even acknowledge your presence. He merely hopped onto the bed and fell asleep. Cats can be so rude!
I was thrilled when Bob finally got to meet you last Friday morning in the kitchen. You and Kisses were playing your little games and Bob tried in vain to convince you two to play outside. If only you had listened.
If we had met under different circumstances, maybe things could have been different. If I lived in an apartment in a big city like say, New York, I could have left crumbs on the floor for you to nibble on after I left for my fabulous, high-paying job. It would have been like having my own private maid service, or at the very least a little secret pet that no one saw but me.
But you see, I live in a suburban neighborhood. And even though we all know I don't have the cleanest house on the block, people might still find it shocking that a mouse felt comfortable enough to reside there for an extended period of time. They wouldn't have understood the relationship we had. Plus, there's also the fact that behind one of those hallway doors I shut quickly but quietly is my precious little 1-yr-old daughter and when I thought of her, I saw you in a different light. You were no longer the cute little scamp playing tag with the cat and picking up the crumbs in front of my stove. You were, dare I say it, a disease-infested vermin and you had to go!
Again, I apologize for the abrupt goodbye and I hope you didn't suffer too much as a result. Believe me when I say I'll remember you for a long time to come. Every time I open the door or turn on the light in my garage, bedroom, or kitchen, I'll pause for a moment and think of you.
Fondly,
Vicki
First of all, let me apologize for the unfortunate incident that took place in my dining room a short while ago. I hope you understand it was never my intention to actually kill you. I merely wanted to capture you under the plastic bin and direct you towards the front door so you could escape off into the bushes. I'm afraid that in my panic as you scurried towards me my aim was off and I inadvertently pinned your waist under the edge of the bin. I would have lifted it immediately, but I did not realize your lower body was paralyzed and I was afraid you might run back under the stove.
In my defense, I gave you ample opportunity to run out the front or back door. It was obvious the cat was not a serious threat and on that note, I must say I admire your ability to escape his clutches numerous times.
I'll always remember our times together. Do you remember that first time we met? I was putting some clothes in the kids' dress-up bin and out you popped. You ran off before I could introduce myself, but you made quite an impression on me. Then that Sunday afternoon about a month later when we ran into each other at the doorway to my bedroom, not once, but twice! That was hilarious, or at least Bob thought so when I called him from my perch on the kitchen counter and urged him to come home quickly to meet you himself. I even tossed the cat into my room to keep you company in the meantime, and I was appalled he didn't even acknowledge your presence. He merely hopped onto the bed and fell asleep. Cats can be so rude!
I was thrilled when Bob finally got to meet you last Friday morning in the kitchen. You and Kisses were playing your little games and Bob tried in vain to convince you two to play outside. If only you had listened.
If we had met under different circumstances, maybe things could have been different. If I lived in an apartment in a big city like say, New York, I could have left crumbs on the floor for you to nibble on after I left for my fabulous, high-paying job. It would have been like having my own private maid service, or at the very least a little secret pet that no one saw but me.
But you see, I live in a suburban neighborhood. And even though we all know I don't have the cleanest house on the block, people might still find it shocking that a mouse felt comfortable enough to reside there for an extended period of time. They wouldn't have understood the relationship we had. Plus, there's also the fact that behind one of those hallway doors I shut quickly but quietly is my precious little 1-yr-old daughter and when I thought of her, I saw you in a different light. You were no longer the cute little scamp playing tag with the cat and picking up the crumbs in front of my stove. You were, dare I say it, a disease-infested vermin and you had to go!
Again, I apologize for the abrupt goodbye and I hope you didn't suffer too much as a result. Believe me when I say I'll remember you for a long time to come. Every time I open the door or turn on the light in my garage, bedroom, or kitchen, I'll pause for a moment and think of you.
Fondly,
Vicki
Friday, April 11, 2008
Evil Eyes
Our family, especially Nick, loves this video. Bob and I were watching it last night and I just had to post it here in case anyone actually hasn't seen it. And if you have, enjoy it once again.
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
At Least She's Not Lacking Self-Confidence
Vivian just argued with me about the spelling of the word sign.
She thinks it's spelled sighn. When I pointed out her mistake, she just said, "unh-uh," and gave me a look like I'm some kind of idiot.
I wasn't expecting that for a few more years.
She thinks it's spelled sighn. When I pointed out her mistake, she just said, "unh-uh," and gave me a look like I'm some kind of idiot.
I wasn't expecting that for a few more years.
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
How Many 5 Year Olds Could You Take in a Fight?
17
My mom commented that it's bad enough that my posts are infrequent, but they're also making her cry so I thought this might be good for a laugh.
Bob scored 26.
My mom commented that it's bad enough that my posts are infrequent, but they're also making her cry so I thought this might be good for a laugh.
Bob scored 26.
Sunday, April 06, 2008
A family in need of prayer
I saw a link to this blog and I was so overwhelmed by what this family is going through. The husband is a member of a Christian band called Selah. His wife is pregnant with their fourth child and they have been told she has medical conditions that "are incompatible with life."
This is the mother's blog of her pregnancy and the impending birth of their daughter by c-section Monday, April 7th.
http://audreycaroline.blogspot.com/
My heart breaks for her and I'm amazed at the faith she shows in this circumstance. I don't think I could come anywhere close. I just wanted everyone to read it and pray for what her family is going through. And let's all thank God for the children He has blessed us with that we get to see every day.
This is the mother's blog of her pregnancy and the impending birth of their daughter by c-section Monday, April 7th.
http://audreycaroline.blogspot.com/
My heart breaks for her and I'm amazed at the faith she shows in this circumstance. I don't think I could come anywhere close. I just wanted everyone to read it and pray for what her family is going through. And let's all thank God for the children He has blessed us with that we get to see every day.
Friday, March 21, 2008
A tug at the heartstrings
I just saw the link for this on Michelle Malkin's website.
http://www.kdhnews.com/news/story.aspx?s=24001
And believe it or not, I was actually able to read it without the aid of Kleenex.
http://www.kdhnews.com/news/story.aspx?s=24001
And believe it or not, I was actually able to read it without the aid of Kleenex.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Follow-up
I just realized that I never did any follow-up on Olivia's post where she was sick, yet again.
We did take her to the dr. that Friday and she ended up with a Roceferin shot and then another one Saturday. This seemed to do the trick and she's now okay. She went back to the dr. this week to finally get her 12-month immunizations (she's 14 mos now) and she gained a pound in two weeks. Amazing what eating without the pain of an ear infection can do!
All of this partly contributed to our decision to take her out of daycare. Bob remarked that they always seemed to be hosing the place down when he was there, so I know it was probably cleaner than my own house, it's just the nature of having several kids in one place day after day. They slobber on toys and then pass them around. If one has a runny nose they'll all get it. The only problem is mine will develop an infection from it and need 2-3 rounds of antibiotics to clear it up. Not to mention the days she missed that we still had to pay for.
On another whiny complaining note, our heat pump decided to stop working that same weekend. We had a major cold-front that Friday night and Saturday and I couldn't get the thermostat above 65 degrees, but it all got fixed just in time for the weather to hit 70 degrees.
If I could just have two weeks with no crises or illnesses. And then if I could have a few more...
We did take her to the dr. that Friday and she ended up with a Roceferin shot and then another one Saturday. This seemed to do the trick and she's now okay. She went back to the dr. this week to finally get her 12-month immunizations (she's 14 mos now) and she gained a pound in two weeks. Amazing what eating without the pain of an ear infection can do!
All of this partly contributed to our decision to take her out of daycare. Bob remarked that they always seemed to be hosing the place down when he was there, so I know it was probably cleaner than my own house, it's just the nature of having several kids in one place day after day. They slobber on toys and then pass them around. If one has a runny nose they'll all get it. The only problem is mine will develop an infection from it and need 2-3 rounds of antibiotics to clear it up. Not to mention the days she missed that we still had to pay for.
On another whiny complaining note, our heat pump decided to stop working that same weekend. We had a major cold-front that Friday night and Saturday and I couldn't get the thermostat above 65 degrees, but it all got fixed just in time for the weather to hit 70 degrees.
If I could just have two weeks with no crises or illnesses. And then if I could have a few more...
She's Outta There
Bob and I had been discussing me pulling away from the day to day operations of his business. It's pretty tough working with your spouse, the whole dynamic of your relationship shifts when one of you is "the boss" and we really do better when we each have our own space and our own areas of responsibility that we carry out without the other one looking over our shoulder. Okay, I'm the one that looks over the shoulder. I'm a control freak, so sue me.
Anyway, I haven't been there much lately and Bob's doing great on his own. He still could use a hand with the paperwork and books and I'm more than happy to help out, but it's not something I need to be there for on a full-time basis. So with all that, we decided we didn't really need to keep Olivia in fulltime daycare. I miss my little girl during the day and there's other things we could do with the $600+ that it costs per month to put her there.
So Monday we decided to pull her out and today was her last day (they're closed tomorrow for Good Friday). So now she'll be my little sidekick, my shadow, the growth on my hip wherever I go. If I have work to do, I'll take care of it when she naps or at night after they all go to bed.
I'm looking forward to showing her that mommy can be fun too. I'm not all about laundry, cooking, cleaning house and sitting at the computer. Yes, work and chores still have to be done, but we can goof off with the best of them when we want to.
Shhh...just don't tell the other two what really goes on when they're at school. hee hee
Anyway, I haven't been there much lately and Bob's doing great on his own. He still could use a hand with the paperwork and books and I'm more than happy to help out, but it's not something I need to be there for on a full-time basis. So with all that, we decided we didn't really need to keep Olivia in fulltime daycare. I miss my little girl during the day and there's other things we could do with the $600+ that it costs per month to put her there.
So Monday we decided to pull her out and today was her last day (they're closed tomorrow for Good Friday). So now she'll be my little sidekick, my shadow, the growth on my hip wherever I go. If I have work to do, I'll take care of it when she naps or at night after they all go to bed.
I'm looking forward to showing her that mommy can be fun too. I'm not all about laundry, cooking, cleaning house and sitting at the computer. Yes, work and chores still have to be done, but we can goof off with the best of them when we want to.
Shhh...just don't tell the other two what really goes on when they're at school. hee hee
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
I've been robbed!
Okay, the great $4 list may not be all it's cracked up to be.
I just looked at Wal-Mart and Target's Pharmacy sites where they list their $4 medicines. My prescription was for Amoxicillin 875 MG, 1 tablet 2x day for 7 days (14 pills). It cost 17.99 at Target. If it had been written in one of these configurations it would have been $4 (the third column is Qty).
So apparently, it's not enough to get your doctor to prescribe one antibiotic over another, you have to make sure it's one of the dosages and quantities on the list. So for me, the closest is 30 500 mg capsules. I would have to take 2 capsules, 2x a day.
I would have asked for it if I had known, but the point is, Target and Wal-Mart act like this is some great saving grace for the little guy, but how many of those people would be proactive and aware enough to make sure their doctor configured everything just right. Like me, they would probably assume that any dosage a dr. prescribes is going to be routine enough to be included and then when they found out it wasn't, they'd feel like they were ripped off.
And you think it's picky now, just imagine what would happen if the gov't ran it. You wouldn't even be able to ask for options because your dr. would be limited in how they could even write the script.
I just looked at Wal-Mart and Target's Pharmacy sites where they list their $4 medicines. My prescription was for Amoxicillin 875 MG, 1 tablet 2x day for 7 days (14 pills). It cost 17.99 at Target. If it had been written in one of these configurations it would have been $4 (the third column is Qty).
| AMOXICILLIN 125 MG/5 ML | Suspension | 80, 100, 150 |
| AMOXICILLIN 200 MG/5 ML* | Suspension | 50, 75, 100 |
| AMOXICILLIN 250 MG | Capsule | 30 |
| AMOXICILLIN 250 MG/5 ML | Suspension | 80, 100, 150 |
| AMOXICILLIN 400 MG/5 ML* | Suspension | 50, 75, 100 |
| AMOXICILLIN 500 MG | Capsule | 30 |
So apparently, it's not enough to get your doctor to prescribe one antibiotic over another, you have to make sure it's one of the dosages and quantities on the list. So for me, the closest is 30 500 mg capsules. I would have to take 2 capsules, 2x a day.
I would have asked for it if I had known, but the point is, Target and Wal-Mart act like this is some great saving grace for the little guy, but how many of those people would be proactive and aware enough to make sure their doctor configured everything just right. Like me, they would probably assume that any dosage a dr. prescribes is going to be routine enough to be included and then when they found out it wasn't, they'd feel like they were ripped off.
And you think it's picky now, just imagine what would happen if the gov't ran it. You wouldn't even be able to ask for options because your dr. would be limited in how they could even write the script.
Knocked Down!
Monday I had a little bit of sore throat and then that night started to feel pretty rough. All day Tuesday I felt like I had been run over -- aches, chills and the sore throat had gotten worse. I took Daytime Theraflu which is pretty much like Daytime Nyquil and I highly recommend it. It made the day tolerable until Bob got home and I could crawl under the covers and doze on and off while watching Gene Simmons' Family Jewels.
At some point in the evening I went in the bathroom and looked at my throat, expecting to see the usual angry red streaks. Instead, I saw nasty white blisters going down both sides of my throat. Dang! "That's probably strep," I thought.
This morning I went to the local walk-in clinic and the PA took one look at my throat and said "Whoa... oh yeah, that's strep!" She didn't even bother with the culture, she just wrote the script. I was fine with that because my insurance has a high deductible and I had to pay the whole fee as it was. I didn't need any extra costs since we all knew what the problem was.
Still it's a bummer that it cost me over $100 for someone without a medical degree to tell me what I already knew and get me a prescription for basic run-of-the-mill antibiotics. At least the medicine was under $20, but next time I'm taking the Wal-Mart $4 list and telling them to pick something off of there. You gotta save where you can. I'm also going to look into an HSA so these kind of expenses can at least be pre-tax.
At some point in the evening I went in the bathroom and looked at my throat, expecting to see the usual angry red streaks. Instead, I saw nasty white blisters going down both sides of my throat. Dang! "That's probably strep," I thought.
This morning I went to the local walk-in clinic and the PA took one look at my throat and said "Whoa... oh yeah, that's strep!" She didn't even bother with the culture, she just wrote the script. I was fine with that because my insurance has a high deductible and I had to pay the whole fee as it was. I didn't need any extra costs since we all knew what the problem was.
Still it's a bummer that it cost me over $100 for someone without a medical degree to tell me what I already knew and get me a prescription for basic run-of-the-mill antibiotics. At least the medicine was under $20, but next time I'm taking the Wal-Mart $4 list and telling them to pick something off of there. You gotta save where you can. I'm also going to look into an HSA so these kind of expenses can at least be pre-tax.
Thursday, March 06, 2008
Still sick
Olivia's daycare called this afternoon and said she had a 102+ temp. Her doctor said Tuesday that if she still had a fever on Friday to bring her back in so that's what I gues we'll be doing tomorrow.
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
Has she been cranky?
This was the question my pediatrician asked today as she looked into Olivia's ears. I think in doctor speak that translates to "hey dumb-a** have you noticed your child is in serious pain?" We were there for her 1-year checkup that I forgot to schedule in January because we were all wrapped up in ENT visits and getting her tubes.
When you get this kind of question, you know bad news is coming up. It doesn't help that your response is "well yeah, but she's always like that." And "you know, now that you mention it, she does put her hand up to her ears and shake her head when she's crying". I know, I know, with 3 kids I should recognize things like that by now but you have to understand I come from a family where you have to show signs of near-death to be taken to a doctor. Heck, when I was 12 I walked around with pneumonia for 2 weeks before my parents finally took me to the doctor. And that was only after I missed a lock-in at church that I had been looking forward to.
Anyway, it turns out that Olivia has a blister on her ear drum. It's some kind of infection that the dr. said is usually caused by staph (lovely!) or something else that I can't remember (once they mention staph, you don't really hear anything else). We have antibiotics and ear drops to give her and then she'll go back to the doctor in 10 days.
On the upside, she didn't get her shots. The dr. felt sorry for her because these kinds of blisters are usually very painful and she said she'd rather wait until it was all cleared up before she put Olivia through the shots.
As for her growth stats: Height - 32"; Weight 20lbs, 12 oz; Head Circ - 18 3/4"
If you type the numbers into the growth percentile calculator at babycenter.com, you'll see that she's tall and skinny with a big head. She takes after her daddy.
When you get this kind of question, you know bad news is coming up. It doesn't help that your response is "well yeah, but she's always like that." And "you know, now that you mention it, she does put her hand up to her ears and shake her head when she's crying". I know, I know, with 3 kids I should recognize things like that by now but you have to understand I come from a family where you have to show signs of near-death to be taken to a doctor. Heck, when I was 12 I walked around with pneumonia for 2 weeks before my parents finally took me to the doctor. And that was only after I missed a lock-in at church that I had been looking forward to.
Anyway, it turns out that Olivia has a blister on her ear drum. It's some kind of infection that the dr. said is usually caused by staph (lovely!) or something else that I can't remember (once they mention staph, you don't really hear anything else). We have antibiotics and ear drops to give her and then she'll go back to the doctor in 10 days.
On the upside, she didn't get her shots. The dr. felt sorry for her because these kinds of blisters are usually very painful and she said she'd rather wait until it was all cleared up before she put Olivia through the shots.
As for her growth stats: Height - 32"; Weight 20lbs, 12 oz; Head Circ - 18 3/4"
If you type the numbers into the growth percentile calculator at babycenter.com, you'll see that she's tall and skinny with a big head. She takes after her daddy.
2 in a Row!
On Tuesdays Vivian brings home a progress report for the previous week. Today she brought home all E's for the 2nd week in a row! We're so happy for her.
This is a big deal for us considering it was only a few months ago that she was bringing home almost all N's, which is like D's or F's. At the time I had a meeting with her teacher who thought she might have ADD and need medication. She still could be ADD, but if so, I'm hoping that it's something we'll be able to help her manage without pills. It was a little disturbing how quickly her teacher and pediatrician were ready to give her meds. The thinking was to give it to her and let's see if it helps... if so, then I guess she's ADD.
Gee, has anyone ever thought of maybe teaching personal responsibility.. a little b-mod through reward and punishment? Or does that take too much time and effort compared to a pill that can turn her into a little Stepford Student?
Enough on the rant, I'm so proud of my girl. She earned this on her own, through her own effort.
This is a big deal for us considering it was only a few months ago that she was bringing home almost all N's, which is like D's or F's. At the time I had a meeting with her teacher who thought she might have ADD and need medication. She still could be ADD, but if so, I'm hoping that it's something we'll be able to help her manage without pills. It was a little disturbing how quickly her teacher and pediatrician were ready to give her meds. The thinking was to give it to her and let's see if it helps... if so, then I guess she's ADD.
Gee, has anyone ever thought of maybe teaching personal responsibility.. a little b-mod through reward and punishment? Or does that take too much time and effort compared to a pill that can turn her into a little Stepford Student?
Enough on the rant, I'm so proud of my girl. She earned this on her own, through her own effort.
Sunday, March 02, 2008
Oprah's Big Give
Alright, I lasted about 15 minutes on this. I can't watch anymore because I'm way too big of a softie for it. If I was sitting there listening to any of these stories in person, I know I would be a blubbering idiot. How do people do things like this without sobbing the whole way through?
Maybe I need to go back on the zoloft.
Maybe I need to go back on the zoloft.
Recovery
If you ever want to renew your appreciation for your own kids, invite a bunch of other people's kids over to spend the night.
And be sure to add lots of sugary junk food to get the full effect.
The girls have all left and the house is pretty much cleaned up. Except for stray bunches of maribou trim that I'll be chasing out from under my DR table for the next week, you can't really tell a party took place. Well, okay, the streamers are still hanging from the chandelier and knowing us they'll be there until at least Easter.
For those who have not had the pleasure of playing endentured servant to a bunch of 6/7-yr-old girls, here are a few things I noted:
1. They eat alot
2. They open a bunch of juice boxes but never actually finish them.
3. They eat alot more.
4. After they've gone through several juice boxes and the orb-shaped bottled water that they never actually drank, they ask for glasses of water.... that comes out of the tap..... for FREE! I have to admit I was impressed with how many wanted water, my dad would be so proud!
Side note: at this point you may realize, as we did, that it's a good idea to have them write their names on their drinks so when they say they're thirsty, you can produce the glass (juice box, water bottle, etc.) they never finished.
5. When a couple of them lie down and start getting tired, don't think you're about to call it a night. Oh no, baby, the others will appear and whip the tired ones back up into a giggling, squealing frenzy.
6. Some of them have really annoying, high-pitched, make-your-ears-bleed squeals, which fortunately your hubby will put a stop to immediately.
7. Just when you think they're going to finally settle down and drift off, one of them announces she's hungry again and suddenly it's like none of them have eaten all night.
8. But when you finally can't take anymore, all you have to do is turn off the lights and resume your rightful position of authority in the house and tell them they are going to sleep.
All in all, it was a good party. The girls had fun and most importantly Vivian had a blast. But just ask me if I'm going to turn around and do this again with a bunch of 5-yr-old boys.
Those 2-hr party places are starting to look like a real bargain.
And be sure to add lots of sugary junk food to get the full effect.
The girls have all left and the house is pretty much cleaned up. Except for stray bunches of maribou trim that I'll be chasing out from under my DR table for the next week, you can't really tell a party took place. Well, okay, the streamers are still hanging from the chandelier and knowing us they'll be there until at least Easter.
For those who have not had the pleasure of playing endentured servant to a bunch of 6/7-yr-old girls, here are a few things I noted:
1. They eat alot
2. They open a bunch of juice boxes but never actually finish them.
3. They eat alot more.
4. After they've gone through several juice boxes and the orb-shaped bottled water that they never actually drank, they ask for glasses of water.... that comes out of the tap..... for FREE! I have to admit I was impressed with how many wanted water, my dad would be so proud!
Side note: at this point you may realize, as we did, that it's a good idea to have them write their names on their drinks so when they say they're thirsty, you can produce the glass (juice box, water bottle, etc.) they never finished.
5. When a couple of them lie down and start getting tired, don't think you're about to call it a night. Oh no, baby, the others will appear and whip the tired ones back up into a giggling, squealing frenzy.
6. Some of them have really annoying, high-pitched, make-your-ears-bleed squeals, which fortunately your hubby will put a stop to immediately.
7. Just when you think they're going to finally settle down and drift off, one of them announces she's hungry again and suddenly it's like none of them have eaten all night.
8. But when you finally can't take anymore, all you have to do is turn off the lights and resume your rightful position of authority in the house and tell them they are going to sleep.
All in all, it was a good party. The girls had fun and most importantly Vivian had a blast. But just ask me if I'm going to turn around and do this again with a bunch of 5-yr-old boys.
Those 2-hr party places are starting to look like a real bargain.
Winding Down
It's 12:30 and the girls are camped out in the living room watching High School Musical 2. The more hyper ones have seen it about 500 times so we're hoping they'll be bored into a comatose state.
Saturday, March 01, 2008
Partytime!
Vivian's birthday party is tonight. She wanted a sleepover so it starts around 6pm and ends about 10am tomorrow. We're going to have about 10-12 girls with about half actually spending the night. We're doing pizza, then decorating picture frames with sequins and rhinestones, then cake and ice cream, and finally presents. Then for the girls sleeping over, we're doing movies and popcorn in the living room. I'm hoping they'll start going to sleep around midnight. We'll see.
This is Vivian's cake. She wanted a Webkinz theme so I took a picture of her surrounded by her webkinz and
had Wal-mart put it on a rainbow-colored cake. It's really cool! I had already planned to do a picture cake, but I couldn't decide what type of background and then in Wal-Mart I saw another cake with the rainbow frosting and I knew that was it!
Friday, February 22, 2008
And Happy Birthday Nick!
I'm a mess!
I'm a mess!
I'm a big, old messy mess!
From Laurie Berkner's song "I'm a Mess!"
Ever since I first heard it, I've considered that Nick's theme song.
As his daddy likes to say, he's about as subtle as a train wreck.
Our family's been on that train for five years now and it's been quite a ride. I never saw a little boy who's so outgoing, fun-loving, imaginative, whip-smart, hilarious, sensitive, sweet and so gosh darn cute all at once! I know the rest of you think your kids are all that, too, but as I said Wednesday, this one's different, he's special -- he's mine!
He and Vivian are really close. I've always called them the Bobbsey twins or Frick and Frack. Nick really looks up to his big sister and I hope they always get along so well. I can also tell Nick will be a good big brother to Olivia. A few weeks ago we were headed to a Mardi Gras parade and I said Olivia wasn't going because I was afraid she would get hit by beads. Nick assured me that if any beads came her way, he would step in front of her so they hit him instead. Too sweet!
So happy birthday to my little man! Just remember if anyone picks on either of your sisters, punch 'em in the nose! But please son be gentle with the pets. The cat doesn't like to be held all the time, and if he scratches you trying to get away, you have to just suck it up and move on.
And when daddy hurts your feelings and breaks your heart by fussing at you, it breaks my heart too, but being tougher on you now will make you a better man down the road... and I can't wait to see how you turn out.
I love you -- Mommy
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Happy Birthday Vivian!
7 years ago today, Vivian burst into our lives and we've never looked back (except to wonder what the heck did we do with ourselves before kids? We must have sat around and wasted a lot of time).
I remember looking out the window of the LDRP suite and watching all the cars go by during morning rush hour. They were buzzing along as if the place they were going to was more important than what was going on in my room, like that day was just any other day. But it wasn't, I was having a baby!!!!! I wanted to bang on the window and shout at them, "Hey! Look up! Don't you know something big is happening up here?" I know people have babies every day, but this wasn't just any baby, she was SPECIAL!
She was mine.
And now she's 7 and I can't believe how beautiful, smart and sweet she is. She loves to read and write. She also loves to play with her stuffed animals, particularly her Webkinz. Her BaBa is taking her out after school to get yet another one--the Himalayan Cat. I think this will make 7 or 8, I lose track of them. She did point out to me that her Golden Lab, Vanilla has her birthday on the same day as Vivian's party so they'll celebrate together. And both of their names start with V so it's extra-extra special. And they'll both need crowns to wear.
Happy Birthday Viv! I hope you always take joy in the little details most of us fail to notice. And I hope you always focus on the things you have in common with others, instead of the differences.
I love you sweet girl! -- Momma
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Another year older
It's a big week in the Satterlee household. This week Vivian and Nick both have their birthdays. Vivian turns 7 on the 20th and Nick turns 5 on the 22nd. Then my BMILITW, who I wouldn't dare insult by stating her age because she might no longer babysit and do my laundry (yes she washes my clothes and I'm not ashamed to admit that because I'm secure in my womanhood), has her special day on the 24th.
Vivian is having a sleepover this year. Her daddy designed cute Webkinz invitations for her and now they're printing them and getting ready to send them out. We haven't quite decided what we're doing for Nick's birthday. I'm sure he'd love to have a sleepover too since Vivian is, but we're also thinking about options where the party is offsite and we only have to deal with it for a couple of hours as opposed to all night.
At least this year with Olivia we got away with just a few neighbors and grandma over for cake, ice cream and cheese dip. Next year she'll be old enough to understand that something is up and she'll want to make sure she gets the same treatment as the other two. I know banks offer Christmas club accounts, but has anyone ever heard of Birthday Party accounts?
Vivian is having a sleepover this year. Her daddy designed cute Webkinz invitations for her and now they're printing them and getting ready to send them out. We haven't quite decided what we're doing for Nick's birthday. I'm sure he'd love to have a sleepover too since Vivian is, but we're also thinking about options where the party is offsite and we only have to deal with it for a couple of hours as opposed to all night.
At least this year with Olivia we got away with just a few neighbors and grandma over for cake, ice cream and cheese dip. Next year she'll be old enough to understand that something is up and she'll want to make sure she gets the same treatment as the other two. I know banks offer Christmas club accounts, but has anyone ever heard of Birthday Party accounts?
Welcome!
Okay, I feel like I need to have some kind of intro post first, so here it is. This is my blog. It will be a combination of my diary and family updates. If you don't know me or my family, read it at your own risk because the minutiae of our lives might bore you into a comatose state. If that happens, don't bother suing us because you were warned and you probably wouldn't ever see any money anyway (think squeezing blood from a turnip).
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