I have never had to clean poop out of the bathtub.
Until last night.
Ew.
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
I did it! I did it!!
Aren't you so proud of me?? I finally updated the blogroll! I was also considering a template change because I'm deathly sick of the pink... but that can wait. I want to look into that custom template thing first. Anyway, take the time to peruse the new blogroll! There are some new links, as well as some old ones that have been removed, one blog had a name change, so that has been updated... well, just go look. They're all good, I promise! And if any of the links don't work, gimme a holler. Hopefully the ones I added without asking are okay... if someone wants their blog removed, as always just let me know.
On the home front, it's official that Kyan is a clumsy as the rest of us. In the past 2 days he has run full speed into a doorframe and gave himself a bloody nose (that was fun, lemme tell ya) and this morning he was pouting (I’ve no idea why – he’s 2) and bumped his own head into the wall.
* sigh *
I’d really hoped the clumsy gene would take longer to kick in, but obviously I’m going to have to keep a close eye on doppy boy #2. Let’s see… Jaben held out until he was 4 to break his first bone… any bets on how far Kyan will make it?
On the home front, it's official that Kyan is a clumsy as the rest of us. In the past 2 days he has run full speed into a doorframe and gave himself a bloody nose (that was fun, lemme tell ya) and this morning he was pouting (I’ve no idea why – he’s 2) and bumped his own head into the wall.
* sigh *
I’d really hoped the clumsy gene would take longer to kick in, but obviously I’m going to have to keep a close eye on doppy boy #2. Let’s see… Jaben held out until he was 4 to break his first bone… any bets on how far Kyan will make it?
Friday, January 12, 2007
POOPY ON THE POTTY!!
YES!!!! Kyan went poopy on the potty for the first time this morning!!! We were watching tv while Jaben was packing his stuff up for school and he said, "Mommy, poopy." So I checked him and he hadn't gone so I asked him if he had to go and he said he did...
So, I put him on and a few minutes later -- HE WENT!! I am soooooooooo proud of him!! He's been "ready" for a while and loves to sit on his potty, but he hadn't gone but once when he peed. YAY FOR KYAN!!! Pleeeease let this be the beginning of the end of diapers!
*dances* Poopy on the pot-tay! Poopy on the pot-tay!
So, I put him on and a few minutes later -- HE WENT!! I am soooooooooo proud of him!! He's been "ready" for a while and loves to sit on his potty, but he hadn't gone but once when he peed. YAY FOR KYAN!!! Pleeeease let this be the beginning of the end of diapers!
*dances* Poopy on the pot-tay! Poopy on the pot-tay!
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Bloggy de-lurking week!!!!!
It's all over the place, y'know. You've seen it. It's bloggy de-lurking week!! I know you come by, I just don't know who ya are! So... leave a comment and come out of lurkerdom!!!
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Hodgepodge
I’ve got all this stuff to talk about today! One thing I have to just say outright… Kyan has gotten so damn cute lately! I’ve got to post pics soon… Looks just like Jaben at that age!
Oh, also, haven’t updated the blogroll yet – I’m lazy like that. But I will. Some links are outdated and some blogs are no longer updated so I will try to get to that this weekend. Thank you to the two who responded. Apparently nobody else loves me.
There’s a lot I want to write about but I’m not sure how far I’ll get. First, I’m sure you’ve heard about this thing with schools sending home BMI reports to parents. If not, clink here.
Now, I have 2 feelings on this. One… it’s good that the schools are taking an interest in the health of the kids. Obesity in this country is outrageous and we definitely need to do something about it. But the stronger feeling is more one of WTH??? What do they think this will do to self esteem and self image? Kids with a bit of pudge may well take this too seriously and develop eating disorders, kids already tease each other – we ALL know kids are cruel – so why give them more ammunition? And what about the schools responsibility? My son doesn’t even have PE class right now. They only get that one quarter of the year, and recess is only part of lunch… so they get pretty much no exercise throughout the day. And the lunch menu? Yikes. This is Jabe’s schools lunch menu for this week:
Monday: Chicken Nuggets, French Fries, Apricots, Bread N Butter, Milk
Tuesday: Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, Pears, Peas, Bread Stick, Milk
Wednesday: Hot Dog, Baked Beans, Pears, Snicker Doodle Cookie, Milk
Thursday: French Toast, Syrup, Sausage Patty, Hash Brown Potato,
Applesauce cup, Milk
Friday: Pizza, Corn, Fruit Cocktail, Chocolate Cake, Milk
I copied this right off their website, so I know this is what’s being served. I hope other schools are doing better, but with a lunch menu like this, almost no recess, no PE classes 3/4 of the year our schools at least have little to no room to be sending out BMI notices to parents. They haven’t, and I would certainly hope they wouldn’t. We don’t eat all that healthfully at our home, but we certainly eat better than that. I’m afraid this kind of menu is the norm at US schools… which, along with the decrease in recess and PE definitely contributes to the increase in childhood obesity. I don’t know how to fix it, but I do know that sending BMI reports home with kids isn’t the answer.
Moving on, can I just say that Angelina Jolee is a moron? Clink here to see why I’d say that. I mean really, what kind of mother says that kind of thing about her own child?? I never really liked her to begin with – she’s shown herself to be dumb as a box of rocks, her work with impoverished children notwithstanding, she just bugs the hell out of me. I hope to God that little girl never reads what her mother said about her. That’s just wrong on so many levels.
Last… did you see that king George will be addressing the nation tonight? Something about sending more troops to Iraq? Who elected this guy anyway?? Posting this will probably get me on some kind of list, but I don’t really care… the guy is a dangerous moron and I really can’t wait until he’s out of office. I beg you, Democrats, please, please nominate someone with brains, compassion and understanding of the American people next time around!! We need someone who will take steps to fix this mess! A big job to take on, sure, but imagine… anyone who can begin the daunting task of reversing little Georgie’s 8 yrs in office could potentially come out looking like one of the greatest Presidents in history! I think I’ll probably watch him on TV tonight… if for no other reason than to try to figure out what the hell. Agree with me, disagree… it’s only one person’s opinion. Of course if you check his approval rating you might find that I fall within the majority, but still… just my opinion.
Ooh! Found a cute one on my computer….. enjoy!
Oh, also, haven’t updated the blogroll yet – I’m lazy like that. But I will. Some links are outdated and some blogs are no longer updated so I will try to get to that this weekend. Thank you to the two who responded. Apparently nobody else loves me.
There’s a lot I want to write about but I’m not sure how far I’ll get. First, I’m sure you’ve heard about this thing with schools sending home BMI reports to parents. If not, clink here.
Now, I have 2 feelings on this. One… it’s good that the schools are taking an interest in the health of the kids. Obesity in this country is outrageous and we definitely need to do something about it. But the stronger feeling is more one of WTH??? What do they think this will do to self esteem and self image? Kids with a bit of pudge may well take this too seriously and develop eating disorders, kids already tease each other – we ALL know kids are cruel – so why give them more ammunition? And what about the schools responsibility? My son doesn’t even have PE class right now. They only get that one quarter of the year, and recess is only part of lunch… so they get pretty much no exercise throughout the day. And the lunch menu? Yikes. This is Jabe’s schools lunch menu for this week:
Monday: Chicken Nuggets, French Fries, Apricots, Bread N Butter, Milk
Tuesday: Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, Pears, Peas, Bread Stick, Milk
Wednesday: Hot Dog, Baked Beans, Pears, Snicker Doodle Cookie, Milk
Thursday: French Toast, Syrup, Sausage Patty, Hash Brown Potato,
Applesauce cup, Milk
Friday: Pizza, Corn, Fruit Cocktail, Chocolate Cake, Milk
I copied this right off their website, so I know this is what’s being served. I hope other schools are doing better, but with a lunch menu like this, almost no recess, no PE classes 3/4 of the year our schools at least have little to no room to be sending out BMI notices to parents. They haven’t, and I would certainly hope they wouldn’t. We don’t eat all that healthfully at our home, but we certainly eat better than that. I’m afraid this kind of menu is the norm at US schools… which, along with the decrease in recess and PE definitely contributes to the increase in childhood obesity. I don’t know how to fix it, but I do know that sending BMI reports home with kids isn’t the answer.
Moving on, can I just say that Angelina Jolee is a moron? Clink here to see why I’d say that. I mean really, what kind of mother says that kind of thing about her own child?? I never really liked her to begin with – she’s shown herself to be dumb as a box of rocks, her work with impoverished children notwithstanding, she just bugs the hell out of me. I hope to God that little girl never reads what her mother said about her. That’s just wrong on so many levels.
Last… did you see that king George will be addressing the nation tonight? Something about sending more troops to Iraq? Who elected this guy anyway?? Posting this will probably get me on some kind of list, but I don’t really care… the guy is a dangerous moron and I really can’t wait until he’s out of office. I beg you, Democrats, please, please nominate someone with brains, compassion and understanding of the American people next time around!! We need someone who will take steps to fix this mess! A big job to take on, sure, but imagine… anyone who can begin the daunting task of reversing little Georgie’s 8 yrs in office could potentially come out looking like one of the greatest Presidents in history! I think I’ll probably watch him on TV tonight… if for no other reason than to try to figure out what the hell. Agree with me, disagree… it’s only one person’s opinion. Of course if you check his approval rating you might find that I fall within the majority, but still… just my opinion.
Ooh! Found a cute one on my computer….. enjoy!
Friday, January 05, 2007
A poem
Last night, Jaben and I were sitting in the living room (Kyan was in bed like a good little boy - yay Ky!). Jabe was messing around in his sketchbook and I thought he was drawing. He stood in front of the chair I was in and asked me if I wanted to hear the poem he just wrote, so of course I said sure. I loved this poem! It's pretty cute and not too bad for a 10-yr old, but the ending made me laugh out loud. It might not be as cute without Jaben reading it (you've got to hear the inflection in his voice), but here it is, posted with permission...
I know, I know, it's not genious. But tell me that's not cute!!
Lunch
By Jaben
Sometimes school lunches are good
but sometimes it's gross
like uncooked bread with uncooked cheese inside.
And chili with rock beans in it.
Also, the corn dogs have real weiner dogs in it!
Lastly, the hot dog buns are made of wood.
So four days each month I pack for lunch!
I know, I know, it's not genious. But tell me that's not cute!!
Thursday, January 04, 2007
2 things, real quick
I'm hoping to update my ridiculously out-dated blogroll real soon, so if you read regularly and have a blog, and would like your blog to be included, please comment and let me know and I'll put you on! I do ask, however, that you add me to your blogroll as well. Thanx!!
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One thing I’ve needed to do for a while is send out an apology. I can’t imagine the person for whom it’s intended will ever see it, but I feel it’s necessary. I had a “secret” blog before I started this one. Not secret in that NOBODY knew about it, but secret in that nobody I knew IRL knew about it. And don’t bother looking, you won’t find it. But anyway, there was a post on there in which I said some pretty nasty things about a woman who hangs on a message board I used to post at. I don’t go there anymore for my own reasons, which have nothing to do with this particular person, but I know that she does. Anyway, I basically called her a train wreck and not any kind of person to look up to or idolize. And I wasn’t nice about it, or apologetic and it was absolutely uncalled for and unnecessary and I have no excuses for it. But the thing is, I was wrong. Not only for saying it (or even thinking it, for that matter), but just generally wrong about her. She hasn’t had the easiest time lately, having endured unimaginable personal tragedy and not only come through it, but seems to be doing amazing. That’s inspirational. That’s something to look up to, that’s strength of character and shows who she really is. Maybe she’s made choices in her life that I don’t necessarily agree with, but it’s not my life, my choices, or my place to judge. I prefer to think I’m a better person than someone who would be so judgmental, but I’m not, any more than anyone else is. What I said was mean and nasty and I am genuinely sorry for it. And (not that she’ll ever see this, but that’s not the point) I hope that the person I’m referring to knows how amazing she’s been, and how strong during the past months. And if by some odd chance of internet connections, she sees this, I’d like her to know that I really do feel awful about what I said and that I hope she can accept this as an apology.
*********************************
Mmkay, that's about it. Don't forget to let me know if you'd like to be included in the upcoming new and improved blogroll!
*********************************
One thing I’ve needed to do for a while is send out an apology. I can’t imagine the person for whom it’s intended will ever see it, but I feel it’s necessary. I had a “secret” blog before I started this one. Not secret in that NOBODY knew about it, but secret in that nobody I knew IRL knew about it. And don’t bother looking, you won’t find it. But anyway, there was a post on there in which I said some pretty nasty things about a woman who hangs on a message board I used to post at. I don’t go there anymore for my own reasons, which have nothing to do with this particular person, but I know that she does. Anyway, I basically called her a train wreck and not any kind of person to look up to or idolize. And I wasn’t nice about it, or apologetic and it was absolutely uncalled for and unnecessary and I have no excuses for it. But the thing is, I was wrong. Not only for saying it (or even thinking it, for that matter), but just generally wrong about her. She hasn’t had the easiest time lately, having endured unimaginable personal tragedy and not only come through it, but seems to be doing amazing. That’s inspirational. That’s something to look up to, that’s strength of character and shows who she really is. Maybe she’s made choices in her life that I don’t necessarily agree with, but it’s not my life, my choices, or my place to judge. I prefer to think I’m a better person than someone who would be so judgmental, but I’m not, any more than anyone else is. What I said was mean and nasty and I am genuinely sorry for it. And (not that she’ll ever see this, but that’s not the point) I hope that the person I’m referring to knows how amazing she’s been, and how strong during the past months. And if by some odd chance of internet connections, she sees this, I’d like her to know that I really do feel awful about what I said and that I hope she can accept this as an apology.
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Mmkay, that's about it. Don't forget to let me know if you'd like to be included in the upcoming new and improved blogroll!
Friday, December 29, 2006
2006 in review
More reflections. Fun, hey? I just read this on Tina's blog and thought I'd borrow it.
What did you do in 2006 that you’ve never done before?
Performed in a musical with my son
Did you keep your New Years’ resolutions and will you make more for next year?
I sort of kept one, blew the other to bits and of course I will make more for next year! I'm a work-in-progress... gotta keep pushing, moving, and trying to grow!
Did anyone close to you give birth? Not this year
Not this year... 2005 was the year of the baby around here!
Did anyone close to you die?
Nope!!!!
What countries did you visit?
None
What would you like to have in 2007 that you lacked in 2006?
More money, more patience...
What date from 2006 will remain etched in your memory and why?
June - flood week. It was insane around here!
What was your biggest achievement of the year?
Wait! I was supposed to achieve something?!?
What was your biggest failure?
Not handling my finances as well as I would've liked and not losing any weight
Did you suffer illness or injury?
Not this year, thank God! Even got the thyroid mess reading as normal! Yahoo!
What was the best thing you bought?
I don't really buy a whole lot... not for me, anyway.
Where did most of your money go?
bills and boys!
What did you get really, really, really excited about?
Kyan's first birthday! Jaben's birthday camping trip, Christmas
What scripture is a theme of 2006?
Matthew 7:12 Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.
God has always given His people guidance on how they should treat one another. We tend to be selfish, unless trained otherwise. But God wants us to be considerate of others. He said that we should treat others they way we would like to be treated. How do you like to be treated? With respect, listened to, not interrupted, loved, share things with, treated fairly, honest with, follow through on promises. If we like these things from others, it is only natural that others would like us to treat them the same. (also known as the Golden Rule!)
Happier or sadder?
I think I might be a bit happier. Good for me!
Thinner or fatter?
probably about the same, although the jeans I have on now were tight when I bought them in '05 and are quite loose now... but not enough lost to be visible.
Richer or poorer?
oh, the same. *sigh*
What do you wish you’d done more of?
exercise!
What do you wish you’d done less of?
eating, impulse spending
How did you spend Christmas?
Christmas Eve was the whole family at my aunt's house, then Christmas Day was me and the boys, my mom, my sister and her gf - opened gifts and just lazed around
Did you fall in love in 2006?
only more with my children
What was your favorite TV show?
I kind of like that new one, The Class
What was the best book you read?
I read so much it's hard to choose! I'm late to the game but I'm really into the Harry Potter books right now
What was your greatest musical discovery of 2006?
I don't think my taste changed much this past year... maybe getting into Fallout Boy, but that's the same type of music I've always liked
What did you want and get?
a new tv
What did you want and not get?
oh... I think I'll skip this one. It'd mostly be involving things about Jaben and I'd prefer to keep some things to myself. :-)
What was your favorite film this year?
Pirates of the Carribean
What did you do on your birthday?
I went to work!
What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
losing weight, handling my money better, things going better for Jaben in regards to school
How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2006?
my personal fashion concept? lol... that makes it sound like I think about it! I love jeans, t-shirts, sweatshirts, sweaters... if it's comfortable and fits and I'm WARM enough (I'm always, always cold!) then it's all good
What kept you sane?
who said I was sane?
which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?
I don't really get into celebrities
What political issue stirred you the most?
I get mad about the gay marriage thing. I mean seriously... why not?? You can't dictate who YOU love, so what give you the right to dictate who someone else loves? Just pass it already and let people be HAPPY, for goodness sake!
Who did you miss?
Hm... nobody, really. Some of my family moved nearby this year and so we get to see them all the time!
Who was the best new person you met?
Jaben's drama teacher, Jill. LOVE HER! She's so fun!
Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2006.
don't sweat the small stuff. Okay, I knew that already. Um... Hm... okay, how about "some people are just nuts and it's best to just ignore them and make fun of them in private!" Does that count?? ;-)
Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.
Such a heart that will lead you to deceiving
All the pain held in your
Hands are shaking cold
Your hands are mine to hold
Speak to me, when all you got to keep is strong
Move along, move along like I know you do
And even when your hope is gone
Move along, move along just to make it through
All American Rejects
What did you do in 2006 that you’ve never done before?
Performed in a musical with my son
Did you keep your New Years’ resolutions and will you make more for next year?
I sort of kept one, blew the other to bits and of course I will make more for next year! I'm a work-in-progress... gotta keep pushing, moving, and trying to grow!
Did anyone close to you give birth? Not this year
Not this year... 2005 was the year of the baby around here!
Did anyone close to you die?
Nope!!!!
What countries did you visit?
None
What would you like to have in 2007 that you lacked in 2006?
More money, more patience...
What date from 2006 will remain etched in your memory and why?
June - flood week. It was insane around here!
What was your biggest achievement of the year?
Wait! I was supposed to achieve something?!?
What was your biggest failure?
Not handling my finances as well as I would've liked and not losing any weight
Did you suffer illness or injury?
Not this year, thank God! Even got the thyroid mess reading as normal! Yahoo!
What was the best thing you bought?
I don't really buy a whole lot... not for me, anyway.
Where did most of your money go?
bills and boys!
What did you get really, really, really excited about?
Kyan's first birthday! Jaben's birthday camping trip, Christmas
What scripture is a theme of 2006?
Matthew 7:12 Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.
God has always given His people guidance on how they should treat one another. We tend to be selfish, unless trained otherwise. But God wants us to be considerate of others. He said that we should treat others they way we would like to be treated. How do you like to be treated? With respect, listened to, not interrupted, loved, share things with, treated fairly, honest with, follow through on promises. If we like these things from others, it is only natural that others would like us to treat them the same. (also known as the Golden Rule!)
Happier or sadder?
I think I might be a bit happier. Good for me!
Thinner or fatter?
probably about the same, although the jeans I have on now were tight when I bought them in '05 and are quite loose now... but not enough lost to be visible.
Richer or poorer?
oh, the same. *sigh*
What do you wish you’d done more of?
exercise!
What do you wish you’d done less of?
eating, impulse spending
How did you spend Christmas?
Christmas Eve was the whole family at my aunt's house, then Christmas Day was me and the boys, my mom, my sister and her gf - opened gifts and just lazed around
Did you fall in love in 2006?
only more with my children
What was your favorite TV show?
I kind of like that new one, The Class
What was the best book you read?
I read so much it's hard to choose! I'm late to the game but I'm really into the Harry Potter books right now
What was your greatest musical discovery of 2006?
I don't think my taste changed much this past year... maybe getting into Fallout Boy, but that's the same type of music I've always liked
What did you want and get?
a new tv
What did you want and not get?
oh... I think I'll skip this one. It'd mostly be involving things about Jaben and I'd prefer to keep some things to myself. :-)
What was your favorite film this year?
Pirates of the Carribean
What did you do on your birthday?
I went to work!
What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
losing weight, handling my money better, things going better for Jaben in regards to school
How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2006?
my personal fashion concept? lol... that makes it sound like I think about it! I love jeans, t-shirts, sweatshirts, sweaters... if it's comfortable and fits and I'm WARM enough (I'm always, always cold!) then it's all good
What kept you sane?
who said I was sane?
which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?
I don't really get into celebrities
What political issue stirred you the most?
I get mad about the gay marriage thing. I mean seriously... why not?? You can't dictate who YOU love, so what give you the right to dictate who someone else loves? Just pass it already and let people be HAPPY, for goodness sake!
Who did you miss?
Hm... nobody, really. Some of my family moved nearby this year and so we get to see them all the time!
Who was the best new person you met?
Jaben's drama teacher, Jill. LOVE HER! She's so fun!
Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2006.
don't sweat the small stuff. Okay, I knew that already. Um... Hm... okay, how about "some people are just nuts and it's best to just ignore them and make fun of them in private!" Does that count?? ;-)
Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.
Such a heart that will lead you to deceiving
All the pain held in your
Hands are shaking cold
Your hands are mine to hold
Speak to me, when all you got to keep is strong
Move along, move along like I know you do
And even when your hope is gone
Move along, move along just to make it through
All American Rejects
Monday, December 25, 2006
The year in review
I've seen this on several blogs so I thought I'd try it myself. I can't start with January cuz I didn't start this blog until April, so it's 3/4 of the year in review. Anyway, whatcha do is take the first line of the first post of each month -- voila! Year in review...
April - The big one is watching cartoons (on a sunny Saturday afternoon! What is wrong with this child - or rather his mother who LETS him watch cartoons on a sunny Saturday afternoon!) and the little one is napping, after passing out over a nutritious lunch of Krispy Kreme.
May - Talented, smart, and friendly... you're also one of the sanest people around.
June - Mom jeans. We’ve all heard of them. But what exactly are “mom jeans?” I asked this same question on my message board today and am waiting (sort of) patiently to see what kind of responses I get. So…. What do you consider to be “mom jeans” and if you’re a mom, do you own any?
July - wouldn’t have thought an 18-mo old would be in the “why” stage yet, but somehow Kyan has caught on that he can keep Mommy’s attention and keep Mommy talking by saying “why?” after everything I say.
August - Okay so I tried typing a post earlier and my fabu mac froze up and of course I hadn’t saved anything yet so POOF! Gone.
September - Have I mentioned I love my Dr?
October - Yesterday my boys and I got to see the hottest show this season – among the toddler set! We were lucky enough to go see the Doodlebops Live!
November - What?? An American who doesn't post a "what I'm thankful for" post on Thanksgiving??
December - Okay, I will post play pictures. Eventually. Gots other stuff on my mind right now.
Y'know, once I started doing this, I thought it'd be more fun to post the subject line of the first post of each month. Maybe next year...
Merry Christmas and hey - if you're going out on NYE, don't drink and drive - call a friend or a cab! If you live near me, call me - I'll come getcha!
April - The big one is watching cartoons (on a sunny Saturday afternoon! What is wrong with this child - or rather his mother who LETS him watch cartoons on a sunny Saturday afternoon!) and the little one is napping, after passing out over a nutritious lunch of Krispy Kreme.
May - Talented, smart, and friendly... you're also one of the sanest people around.
June - Mom jeans. We’ve all heard of them. But what exactly are “mom jeans?” I asked this same question on my message board today and am waiting (sort of) patiently to see what kind of responses I get. So…. What do you consider to be “mom jeans” and if you’re a mom, do you own any?
July - wouldn’t have thought an 18-mo old would be in the “why” stage yet, but somehow Kyan has caught on that he can keep Mommy’s attention and keep Mommy talking by saying “why?” after everything I say.
August - Okay so I tried typing a post earlier and my fabu mac froze up and of course I hadn’t saved anything yet so POOF! Gone.
September - Have I mentioned I love my Dr?
October - Yesterday my boys and I got to see the hottest show this season – among the toddler set! We were lucky enough to go see the Doodlebops Live!
November - What?? An American who doesn't post a "what I'm thankful for" post on Thanksgiving??
December - Okay, I will post play pictures. Eventually. Gots other stuff on my mind right now.
Y'know, once I started doing this, I thought it'd be more fun to post the subject line of the first post of each month. Maybe next year...
Merry Christmas and hey - if you're going out on NYE, don't drink and drive - call a friend or a cab! If you live near me, call me - I'll come getcha!
Friday, December 22, 2006
Vingettes (sorta)
Okay, I will post play pictures. Eventually. Gots other stuff on my mind right now.
*********************************
On the ADD front... I didn't mention yet but I heard from the school psychologist. What a bitch. Yes, that's right, I said it. B-i-t-c-h. Apparently I am the dumbest mother to walk the face of the earth (but you knew that, right?), his teachers have told her there are no problems with him (say WHAT??), and the school system doesn't DO ADD testing so she has no idea where I got my information. Um... maybe from EVERYFREAKINBODY I'VE SPOKEN TO?!? So yeah whatever. To tell the truth, I'm pretty sick of being dicked around by an uncaring school system that only cares about numbers. He's not flunking out? Then he's fine. They beat the tar out of him but didn't hospitalize him? Oh, then it's a grey area. God these people are idiots. Death threats to other kids at the middle school but it's okay to hit other kids at the intermediate school... um, yeah.
So we went to see his Dr and we're going to start treatment anyway. We'll know in a couple of weeks how it's going. I'm not going to tell his teachers anything and in a couple of weeks if he's not having any bad side effects, I'm going to send out new evaluations to the teachers to see if there's been any difference/improvement. We figure it'll be an interesting experiment. But like I told the Dr, at this point I don't really care about the school, I don't care in the least what they say or do - my concern and responsibility is to MY SON and they can BITE ME if they're not interested in cooperating and oh, maybe making sure the kids they're responsible for are getting the best - as they deserve. I will make sure my son gets the best care, the best treatment, whatever it is that he needs. And if they have problems with him? Well, guess that's they're problem, isn't it?
*********************************
Kyan choked tonight. He's FINE, don't worry. But he doesn't chew very well and I gave him something that he should be fine with but either put too much in his mouth or didn't chew well enough or something and seriously choked. He got it up himself and I got him to spit the rest out and gave him something else to eat, but he scared me so badly that I'm not going to be able to give him anything that even remotely needs to really be chewed for quite a while.
*********************************
Jeep sucks. You heard me, Jeep sucks. I am NOT happy with my Liberty and if I could sell it and pay off my loan and get something else, I would. 2 recalls in the not-quite-2-yrs I've had it, repairs, etc. I know some of this is due to a crappy dealership (who I won't be buying from EVER again) but I won't be buying another Jeep and I would advise anyone to ignore the "Jeep rocks" hype and think HARD before purchasing one.
*********************************
Cookie exchange tonight. Actually in about 1/2 an hour and I probably should be getting Kyan ready. We'll be bringing home something like 20 dozen cookies. Yikes. We've decided to make a cookie tray and give it to Jaben's friend's family. I'm sure they'll be very happy to get it and with 3 growing boys will get thru them pretty quickly.
*********************************
And last, but not least, Happy Holiday of your choice! Merry Christmas!
*********************************
On the ADD front... I didn't mention yet but I heard from the school psychologist. What a bitch. Yes, that's right, I said it. B-i-t-c-h. Apparently I am the dumbest mother to walk the face of the earth (but you knew that, right?), his teachers have told her there are no problems with him (say WHAT??), and the school system doesn't DO ADD testing so she has no idea where I got my information. Um... maybe from EVERYFREAKINBODY I'VE SPOKEN TO?!? So yeah whatever. To tell the truth, I'm pretty sick of being dicked around by an uncaring school system that only cares about numbers. He's not flunking out? Then he's fine. They beat the tar out of him but didn't hospitalize him? Oh, then it's a grey area. God these people are idiots. Death threats to other kids at the middle school but it's okay to hit other kids at the intermediate school... um, yeah.
So we went to see his Dr and we're going to start treatment anyway. We'll know in a couple of weeks how it's going. I'm not going to tell his teachers anything and in a couple of weeks if he's not having any bad side effects, I'm going to send out new evaluations to the teachers to see if there's been any difference/improvement. We figure it'll be an interesting experiment. But like I told the Dr, at this point I don't really care about the school, I don't care in the least what they say or do - my concern and responsibility is to MY SON and they can BITE ME if they're not interested in cooperating and oh, maybe making sure the kids they're responsible for are getting the best - as they deserve. I will make sure my son gets the best care, the best treatment, whatever it is that he needs. And if they have problems with him? Well, guess that's they're problem, isn't it?
*********************************
Kyan choked tonight. He's FINE, don't worry. But he doesn't chew very well and I gave him something that he should be fine with but either put too much in his mouth or didn't chew well enough or something and seriously choked. He got it up himself and I got him to spit the rest out and gave him something else to eat, but he scared me so badly that I'm not going to be able to give him anything that even remotely needs to really be chewed for quite a while.
*********************************
Jeep sucks. You heard me, Jeep sucks. I am NOT happy with my Liberty and if I could sell it and pay off my loan and get something else, I would. 2 recalls in the not-quite-2-yrs I've had it, repairs, etc. I know some of this is due to a crappy dealership (who I won't be buying from EVER again) but I won't be buying another Jeep and I would advise anyone to ignore the "Jeep rocks" hype and think HARD before purchasing one.
*********************************
Cookie exchange tonight. Actually in about 1/2 an hour and I probably should be getting Kyan ready. We'll be bringing home something like 20 dozen cookies. Yikes. We've decided to make a cookie tray and give it to Jaben's friend's family. I'm sure they'll be very happy to get it and with 3 growing boys will get thru them pretty quickly.
*********************************
And last, but not least, Happy Holiday of your choice! Merry Christmas!
Monday, December 18, 2006
Supastar... Part II
Jaben's play was yesterday and even tho I haven't uploaded the pics yet (I will later) I had to post because...
MY BOY STOLE THE SHOW!!! LOL!
I don't sound like a proud mama at all, do I? As I'm sure most of you know, he played one of the Cratchit kids, Kris Cratchit, which is a pretty big part, but not huge. He did VERY well at this part, and he actually played that part on Saturday night as well for a child who was sick. He's very good at it... especially the part where the Cratchits are visiting Tiny Kim's grave during the Ghost of Christmas Future scene... he held his head down, put his hat over his heart and generally looked heartbroken. Very, very sad scene. Very well played by all the kids, actually.
BUT -- it was his scene as Bob Marley that killed!! You all know A Christmas Carol... you hear the scary, ghostly voice in the dark saying "Scroooooogeee.... Scroooooooge....." and then Jacob Marley appears to tell Scrooge of the ghosts who will be coming to visit him. However, in this version, after the disembodied voice says "Scroooooge...." the music turns to rasta music and out walks (or jives, really) Jaben wearing tie dye and a dreadlock wig! The crowd went NUTS!!
Scrooge: "Marley? Is that you?"
Bob: Yeah mon, it's me Marley!
Scrooge: Jacob Marley?
Bob: No mon, BOB Marley! Jam with me brudda!
Cue music for the Banana Boat song, Scrooge and Bob dance while Bob sings...
Now Jaben and Brandon (the INCREDIBLY talented boy playing Scrooge) play off each other very well, and the crowd response was so HUGE that they fed off that like you had to see to believe - thru all rehearsals and practice at home I have NEVER seen Jaben get SO into that part or do it SO WELL as he did yesterday. He was SO FUNNY and he did SO GOOD!!!! The audience were all laughing so hard -- I can't tell you how proud I am of him!
So they finish the song/dance to tons of applause and Jacob Marley comes out...
Jacob: Bob, what are you doing here? You're in the wrong play!
Bob: (smacks forehead) Oh mon... isn't this Rent?
Jacob: No, that's playing down the street at the (local theatre)
Bob: Ohhhhhh... sorry, mon, sorry...
Bob leaves the stage to the Banana Boat song, dancing and singing all the way off....
The other 2 boys had to WAIT for the crowd to stop laughing and applauding to continue the scene! I tell you - Jaben ROCKS!!!
And I must say, not only is Brandon (Scrooge) very talented, most of the kids who were in our cast are amazing. Really good at what they do - so it's GREAT and wonderful and so good for Jaben not only to do this, but hold his own and SHINE in a group of such talented kids. He'd had a really bad day at school on Friday (long story) and his self esteem really needed this - badly.
So now we want Jill to win this contest she's in, to get her dream - we really do. But boy we sure don't want to lose her as a drama teacher. This is the BEST thing Jaben has ever done... it's so good for him and his self-image issues. He's GOOD at it, he gets the applause he so badly needs, and is recognized for being really good at something. It's wonderful.
Oh... and Jaben's mom? Yeah, not only did she NOT throw up (haha) but she actually got INTO it and had fun too! I forgot what it's like to be on stage. AND I did hit the note I was worried about during my solo. Thank God. I was standing right next to Jill and there was only one other one line solo between hers and mine and boy is it INTIMIDATING to hear her sing like she does (she IS a professional!!) and then to have to take that same mic and sing out too. But I did it! Yay for me!
I've really got to get the pictures uploaded and see what came out. I took a bunch backstage beforehand, and had someone take some from the audience, during, so we should have a few that came out well. I hope. And I will post for all the world to see how amazing my son is! Betcha can't wait, huh???
So -- it's over. Wow, I hope he gets to do Beauty and the Beast.... but then I also hope Jill wins. Tough call....
MY BOY STOLE THE SHOW!!! LOL!
I don't sound like a proud mama at all, do I? As I'm sure most of you know, he played one of the Cratchit kids, Kris Cratchit, which is a pretty big part, but not huge. He did VERY well at this part, and he actually played that part on Saturday night as well for a child who was sick. He's very good at it... especially the part where the Cratchits are visiting Tiny Kim's grave during the Ghost of Christmas Future scene... he held his head down, put his hat over his heart and generally looked heartbroken. Very, very sad scene. Very well played by all the kids, actually.
BUT -- it was his scene as Bob Marley that killed!! You all know A Christmas Carol... you hear the scary, ghostly voice in the dark saying "Scroooooogeee.... Scroooooooge....." and then Jacob Marley appears to tell Scrooge of the ghosts who will be coming to visit him. However, in this version, after the disembodied voice says "Scroooooge...." the music turns to rasta music and out walks (or jives, really) Jaben wearing tie dye and a dreadlock wig! The crowd went NUTS!!
Scrooge: "Marley? Is that you?"
Bob: Yeah mon, it's me Marley!
Scrooge: Jacob Marley?
Bob: No mon, BOB Marley! Jam with me brudda!
Cue music for the Banana Boat song, Scrooge and Bob dance while Bob sings...
Now Jaben and Brandon (the INCREDIBLY talented boy playing Scrooge) play off each other very well, and the crowd response was so HUGE that they fed off that like you had to see to believe - thru all rehearsals and practice at home I have NEVER seen Jaben get SO into that part or do it SO WELL as he did yesterday. He was SO FUNNY and he did SO GOOD!!!! The audience were all laughing so hard -- I can't tell you how proud I am of him!
So they finish the song/dance to tons of applause and Jacob Marley comes out...
Jacob: Bob, what are you doing here? You're in the wrong play!
Bob: (smacks forehead) Oh mon... isn't this Rent?
Jacob: No, that's playing down the street at the (local theatre)
Bob: Ohhhhhh... sorry, mon, sorry...
Bob leaves the stage to the Banana Boat song, dancing and singing all the way off....
The other 2 boys had to WAIT for the crowd to stop laughing and applauding to continue the scene! I tell you - Jaben ROCKS!!!
And I must say, not only is Brandon (Scrooge) very talented, most of the kids who were in our cast are amazing. Really good at what they do - so it's GREAT and wonderful and so good for Jaben not only to do this, but hold his own and SHINE in a group of such talented kids. He'd had a really bad day at school on Friday (long story) and his self esteem really needed this - badly.
So now we want Jill to win this contest she's in, to get her dream - we really do. But boy we sure don't want to lose her as a drama teacher. This is the BEST thing Jaben has ever done... it's so good for him and his self-image issues. He's GOOD at it, he gets the applause he so badly needs, and is recognized for being really good at something. It's wonderful.
Oh... and Jaben's mom? Yeah, not only did she NOT throw up (haha) but she actually got INTO it and had fun too! I forgot what it's like to be on stage. AND I did hit the note I was worried about during my solo. Thank God. I was standing right next to Jill and there was only one other one line solo between hers and mine and boy is it INTIMIDATING to hear her sing like she does (she IS a professional!!) and then to have to take that same mic and sing out too. But I did it! Yay for me!
I've really got to get the pictures uploaded and see what came out. I took a bunch backstage beforehand, and had someone take some from the audience, during, so we should have a few that came out well. I hope. And I will post for all the world to see how amazing my son is! Betcha can't wait, huh???
So -- it's over. Wow, I hope he gets to do Beauty and the Beast.... but then I also hope Jill wins. Tough call....
Thursday, December 07, 2006
Fun at the gas station
So we locked the baby in the car…
Um, yeah. No, that’s not a typo. We locked the baby in the car. On Tuesday. At the gas station.
I am so proud.
In retrospect, it’s funny, but at the time – not so much.
See, I’d had a bad day to begin with. The whole day was one thing after another, very busy – crazy, actually. And when I got home I was hit with 2 shots of bad news and my mood was not so hot. But, we had to go to the Cub Scout Christmas party, so we loaded into the car and ran to get gas on the way.
And that’s when it happened. That’s when we locked the baby in the car.
I pulled up to the pumps and, leaving the keys dangling in the ignition, commented to Jaben as I got out that it was so cold that the window washer liquid was frozen. Then I went to the back part of the car and started pumping the gas, not thinking a thing about it. Jaben knows he needs to stay in the car with Kyan if we’re getting gas when it’s dark out because Ky freaks if he doesn’t. He’s 22 mos old and he doesn’t like to be strapped into a car seat, in a dark car, alone at night. Makes sense.
But Jabe wanted to see the frozen windshield fluid, so he got out and ran around the car to peek. At this point I was mildly irritated (Kyan was screeching “Day-Bin! Day-Bin!” from his seat) because I really didn’t want him getting out, but I figured it would only be for a minute. So, Jaben looked at the frozen stuff and exclaimed, “Wow! It’s really cold! I want Kyan to see this!” and proceeded to try to pull open the car door.
* click *
NOT the sound I wanted to hear… my stomach hit my shoes and I said, “Jaben, did you lock the car??”
“Um, no… I’ll go try my door.”
* click *
“Oh you’re so kidding me.”
By this time the tank was full, so I grabbed my receipt and started trying doors. All locked. Keys in ignition, baby in the back – strapped into his seat.
Greeeeeaaaat.
Fortunately, it wasn’t 90 degrees out in August, I’d had the heat running before I shut off the car, so Kyan was probably more comfortable than we were. Now I just needed someone to go get the spare key. So, out came the cell phone and we called Aunt Keli. I have never been so impatient for someone to pick up the phone in my life. Ever.
Nothin’ like locking your almost-2-yr-old in the car, in December, in Ohio.
After I talked to Kel, who said she’d come, she called back and said my mom was on the way and would bring the key. So all we had to do was keep Kyan calm until she got there. And keep me from killing Jaben. Keeping Kyan calm seemed much more do-able at this point.
So, we stood at the windows and talked to him, made funny faces, etc, until Grandma arrived..
Tap, tap, tap… “Kyyyy-Kyyyyyyy… hi baby!! Mommy will get you in a minute!! Are you in the car? Is it warm?”
“Day-Ben! Mommy! I tuck!”
“Jaben – talk to him!!”
“Kyyyyan! Lookit me!” (makes faces in the glass)
“Momma – I TUCK!!”
“Oh baby, grandma’s coming…. We’ll get you out in just a minute. Mommy promises.”
Yeah, a good ten minutes of this. Add it to your list of “fun things to do at a gas station on a Tuesday night in December.”
When Grandma arrived (smirking, as I would’ve been doing myself), I unlocked the doors and hugged my poor, brave, surprisingly calm baby.
The whole drama lasted probably 15 minutes from the time Jaben jumped out of the car to the time my mom arrived, but believe me, it seemed MUCH longer. I keep catching myself giggling now tho… I am now one of those moms with a “when we locked the kid in the car” stories…
So – if anyone is still reading this infrequently updated blog… tell me your “When I locked the kid(s) in the car story. Then we can all share the “Mother of the year” award!
Um, yeah. No, that’s not a typo. We locked the baby in the car. On Tuesday. At the gas station.
I am so proud.
In retrospect, it’s funny, but at the time – not so much.
See, I’d had a bad day to begin with. The whole day was one thing after another, very busy – crazy, actually. And when I got home I was hit with 2 shots of bad news and my mood was not so hot. But, we had to go to the Cub Scout Christmas party, so we loaded into the car and ran to get gas on the way.
And that’s when it happened. That’s when we locked the baby in the car.
I pulled up to the pumps and, leaving the keys dangling in the ignition, commented to Jaben as I got out that it was so cold that the window washer liquid was frozen. Then I went to the back part of the car and started pumping the gas, not thinking a thing about it. Jaben knows he needs to stay in the car with Kyan if we’re getting gas when it’s dark out because Ky freaks if he doesn’t. He’s 22 mos old and he doesn’t like to be strapped into a car seat, in a dark car, alone at night. Makes sense.
But Jabe wanted to see the frozen windshield fluid, so he got out and ran around the car to peek. At this point I was mildly irritated (Kyan was screeching “Day-Bin! Day-Bin!” from his seat) because I really didn’t want him getting out, but I figured it would only be for a minute. So, Jaben looked at the frozen stuff and exclaimed, “Wow! It’s really cold! I want Kyan to see this!” and proceeded to try to pull open the car door.
* click *
NOT the sound I wanted to hear… my stomach hit my shoes and I said, “Jaben, did you lock the car??”
“Um, no… I’ll go try my door.”
* click *
“Oh you’re so kidding me.”
By this time the tank was full, so I grabbed my receipt and started trying doors. All locked. Keys in ignition, baby in the back – strapped into his seat.
Greeeeeaaaat.
Fortunately, it wasn’t 90 degrees out in August, I’d had the heat running before I shut off the car, so Kyan was probably more comfortable than we were. Now I just needed someone to go get the spare key. So, out came the cell phone and we called Aunt Keli. I have never been so impatient for someone to pick up the phone in my life. Ever.
Nothin’ like locking your almost-2-yr-old in the car, in December, in Ohio.
After I talked to Kel, who said she’d come, she called back and said my mom was on the way and would bring the key. So all we had to do was keep Kyan calm until she got there. And keep me from killing Jaben. Keeping Kyan calm seemed much more do-able at this point.
So, we stood at the windows and talked to him, made funny faces, etc, until Grandma arrived..
Tap, tap, tap… “Kyyyy-Kyyyyyyy… hi baby!! Mommy will get you in a minute!! Are you in the car? Is it warm?”
“Day-Ben! Mommy! I tuck!”
“Jaben – talk to him!!”
“Kyyyyan! Lookit me!” (makes faces in the glass)
“Momma – I TUCK!!”
“Oh baby, grandma’s coming…. We’ll get you out in just a minute. Mommy promises.”
Yeah, a good ten minutes of this. Add it to your list of “fun things to do at a gas station on a Tuesday night in December.”
When Grandma arrived (smirking, as I would’ve been doing myself), I unlocked the doors and hugged my poor, brave, surprisingly calm baby.
The whole drama lasted probably 15 minutes from the time Jaben jumped out of the car to the time my mom arrived, but believe me, it seemed MUCH longer. I keep catching myself giggling now tho… I am now one of those moms with a “when we locked the kid in the car” stories…
So – if anyone is still reading this infrequently updated blog… tell me your “When I locked the kid(s) in the car story. Then we can all share the “Mother of the year” award!
Friday, December 01, 2006
A little slow on the uptake
Yeah, I might be a little slow to post this but I just have to.
Did you NOT know that Britney Spears is a skank? I mean seriously, did she surprise you? Yeah, me either. It really was only a matter of time before she self-destructed and oh boy is she skipping towards kaboom now! What kind of MOTHER shows her cootchie to the world? We all know it wasn't an accident (I almost typed assident but thought that'd be over-the-top....... but maybe not), so what was she trying to prove? That she's nasty? Got it. That she doesn't care what people think? Got that too.
But hey, listen up, Brit -- you can lose your children for certain kinds of behavior and if you want to keep them with you, hug them when the urge hits, watch them grow, give them the fairytale childhood your kind of money can provide -- then grow the fuck up and act like their MOTHER. You can no longer behave like Paris Hilton's bitch... you have babies depending on you and you ought to be ashamed of yourself. Imagine how you'd feel if that were your mother.......... that's how your boys are going to feel one day. Straighten up girl -- it's not about you anymore.
'Nuff said.
Okay, moving on. I heard all about the Clay Aiken/Kelley Rippa thing (yeah yeah, yesterdays news... bear with me) where he put his hand over her mouth. And? First of all, have y'all seen the picture of her doing just that to Regis? Okay then, Rippa needs to get over herself. And Rosie O'Donnell going off like it was a gay thing? Pul-eeze. It's not all about gays, it had nothing whatsoever to do with whether or not Aiken is gay (and who cares anyway? it's HIS business)... Rosie (who I used to love, BTW) needs to learn when to keep her mouth shut.
*shakes head* But that's not why I started talking about this. I read on a message board one woman calling Clay putting his hand over Kelley's mouth abuse. Read that again. He put his hand over her mouth and it was abuse. Let that sink in a bit. Now, did you see the clip? Think about that clip and think about the word abuse. Was that abuse? Not by a long shot, people. It probably wasn't the most polite or hygenic thing he could've done (but as we've all seen, I'm sure, Kelley is guilty of the same thing) but it most certainly was not abusive. Abuse hurts someone... mentally, physically, and likely both. A guest host on a stupid morning talk show making a rude, inappropriate mistake is NOT abuse. Statements like that - his hand over her mouth was abuse - are one of the reasons so many people do not take real abuse seriously. How can you, in good conscience, compare that to the experience of someone who is hit, someone whose character, intelligence, whose very sense of self is wiped out every day by the words of someone who is supposed to love them? Is that even remotely comprable to the bruises on a child's face? To the broken bones of a mother (or father) who takes it themselves to spare their children? To.................
Well, there are a million sad, scary, sickening examples. But one thing is certain. What Clay Aiken did is in no way abuse. It was kind of gross, it was inappropriate, it was definitely rude. But abusive? That kind of comparison keeps true abuse from being recognized and the person who said it should spend a little time at an abused women's and children's shelter to learn the truth. She should be ashamed of herself.
Okay, sorry about the rant. Sometimes these things just gotta come out.
On a more upbeat note, things are going well with our play, a lot of ads sold for the program and I have a lot of work ahead of me to get it ready to copy by Tuesday. But it'll get done, no problem. To those who know us IRL, it's Dec 17 at 2pm - don't forget!! Jaben is going to be AWESOME!! Can't wait!
Did you NOT know that Britney Spears is a skank? I mean seriously, did she surprise you? Yeah, me either. It really was only a matter of time before she self-destructed and oh boy is she skipping towards kaboom now! What kind of MOTHER shows her cootchie to the world? We all know it wasn't an accident (I almost typed assident but thought that'd be over-the-top....... but maybe not), so what was she trying to prove? That she's nasty? Got it. That she doesn't care what people think? Got that too.
But hey, listen up, Brit -- you can lose your children for certain kinds of behavior and if you want to keep them with you, hug them when the urge hits, watch them grow, give them the fairytale childhood your kind of money can provide -- then grow the fuck up and act like their MOTHER. You can no longer behave like Paris Hilton's bitch... you have babies depending on you and you ought to be ashamed of yourself. Imagine how you'd feel if that were your mother.......... that's how your boys are going to feel one day. Straighten up girl -- it's not about you anymore.
'Nuff said.
Okay, moving on. I heard all about the Clay Aiken/Kelley Rippa thing (yeah yeah, yesterdays news... bear with me) where he put his hand over her mouth. And? First of all, have y'all seen the picture of her doing just that to Regis? Okay then, Rippa needs to get over herself. And Rosie O'Donnell going off like it was a gay thing? Pul-eeze. It's not all about gays, it had nothing whatsoever to do with whether or not Aiken is gay (and who cares anyway? it's HIS business)... Rosie (who I used to love, BTW) needs to learn when to keep her mouth shut.
*shakes head* But that's not why I started talking about this. I read on a message board one woman calling Clay putting his hand over Kelley's mouth abuse. Read that again. He put his hand over her mouth and it was abuse. Let that sink in a bit. Now, did you see the clip? Think about that clip and think about the word abuse. Was that abuse? Not by a long shot, people. It probably wasn't the most polite or hygenic thing he could've done (but as we've all seen, I'm sure, Kelley is guilty of the same thing) but it most certainly was not abusive. Abuse hurts someone... mentally, physically, and likely both. A guest host on a stupid morning talk show making a rude, inappropriate mistake is NOT abuse. Statements like that - his hand over her mouth was abuse - are one of the reasons so many people do not take real abuse seriously. How can you, in good conscience, compare that to the experience of someone who is hit, someone whose character, intelligence, whose very sense of self is wiped out every day by the words of someone who is supposed to love them? Is that even remotely comprable to the bruises on a child's face? To the broken bones of a mother (or father) who takes it themselves to spare their children? To.................
Well, there are a million sad, scary, sickening examples. But one thing is certain. What Clay Aiken did is in no way abuse. It was kind of gross, it was inappropriate, it was definitely rude. But abusive? That kind of comparison keeps true abuse from being recognized and the person who said it should spend a little time at an abused women's and children's shelter to learn the truth. She should be ashamed of herself.
Okay, sorry about the rant. Sometimes these things just gotta come out.
On a more upbeat note, things are going well with our play, a lot of ads sold for the program and I have a lot of work ahead of me to get it ready to copy by Tuesday. But it'll get done, no problem. To those who know us IRL, it's Dec 17 at 2pm - don't forget!! Jaben is going to be AWESOME!! Can't wait!
Saturday, November 25, 2006
Oh it's so un-American!
What?? An American who doesn't post a "what I'm thankful for" post on Thanksgiving??
Yeah, yeah, I know. It's almost a requirement of being an American blogger, but I just didn't want to. I haven't blogged in a good week, I haven't posted to my board in a week (again ladies, I'm sorry), I don't think I've even answered emails. I've kind of been cyber-hybernating. Cybernating? Heh... that's kind of cute, actually. I just haven't felt up to it. Too many things stressing me out, too much to complain about and honestly, who wants to hear it?
Not me, that's for sure.
Don't get me wrong, I AM thankful. I've got a million blessings -- 2 beautiful, healthy boys, a loving, supportive family, warm home, my car, my job, far too much food on the table and friends who e-Bay for me because even tho I think e-Bay is the devil I can still use it as long as it's not me who's bidding. But sometimes you've just got to take a break, take stock of why you're doing what you're doing. I work because I love my job and I need to support my kids. If I didn't love my job and had enough money so that I didn't have to work, would I? Probably. I can't see myself doing the whole SAHM thing. Ugh -- so not for me. In a dreamworld or for a week, maybe. But forever? I just couldn't. It's not in me.
I am afraid tho that I might have that opportunity forced on me sometime soon, and that stresses me out more than anything. It's no secret that the company I work for isn't exactly financially stable. I'm not sure why, I don't know much about the incoming and outgoing cash flow, but I do know that we've been hanging on by a thread for a while, and from the small things I've heard lately I wonder if I will be looking for a new job in the new year. It's scary. Graphic designers aren't in high demand around here (too many people have photoshop and think that makes them a designer -- sorry guys, it doesn't), and I need a certain level of income to get by. It's not a high level by any means... but it's still necessary.
Not only do I love my job, but the perks would be very difficult to duplicate elsewhere. My boss is awesome. She doesn't realize just how great she is, but she is. I work 4-day weeks... who's going to let me do that? I can talk to principals and teachers and even my mother on the phone when and if I need to without raising eyebrows. That probably wouldn't go over too well anywhere else. So very many reasons to be grateful for where I am. And yet, I don't know how much longer I will have it.
Scary.
So yeah, much, much stress. Not just work, but this week it's been weighing on my mind quite heavily.
I am thankful... more than I can say. But sometimes I just wish for simpler... and maybe a shower without someone banging on the door screaming "Mooommmmmyyyyyyyy!!!!"
Yeah, yeah, I know. It's almost a requirement of being an American blogger, but I just didn't want to. I haven't blogged in a good week, I haven't posted to my board in a week (again ladies, I'm sorry), I don't think I've even answered emails. I've kind of been cyber-hybernating. Cybernating? Heh... that's kind of cute, actually. I just haven't felt up to it. Too many things stressing me out, too much to complain about and honestly, who wants to hear it?
Not me, that's for sure.
Don't get me wrong, I AM thankful. I've got a million blessings -- 2 beautiful, healthy boys, a loving, supportive family, warm home, my car, my job, far too much food on the table and friends who e-Bay for me because even tho I think e-Bay is the devil I can still use it as long as it's not me who's bidding. But sometimes you've just got to take a break, take stock of why you're doing what you're doing. I work because I love my job and I need to support my kids. If I didn't love my job and had enough money so that I didn't have to work, would I? Probably. I can't see myself doing the whole SAHM thing. Ugh -- so not for me. In a dreamworld or for a week, maybe. But forever? I just couldn't. It's not in me.
I am afraid tho that I might have that opportunity forced on me sometime soon, and that stresses me out more than anything. It's no secret that the company I work for isn't exactly financially stable. I'm not sure why, I don't know much about the incoming and outgoing cash flow, but I do know that we've been hanging on by a thread for a while, and from the small things I've heard lately I wonder if I will be looking for a new job in the new year. It's scary. Graphic designers aren't in high demand around here (too many people have photoshop and think that makes them a designer -- sorry guys, it doesn't), and I need a certain level of income to get by. It's not a high level by any means... but it's still necessary.
Not only do I love my job, but the perks would be very difficult to duplicate elsewhere. My boss is awesome. She doesn't realize just how great she is, but she is. I work 4-day weeks... who's going to let me do that? I can talk to principals and teachers and even my mother on the phone when and if I need to without raising eyebrows. That probably wouldn't go over too well anywhere else. So very many reasons to be grateful for where I am. And yet, I don't know how much longer I will have it.
Scary.
So yeah, much, much stress. Not just work, but this week it's been weighing on my mind quite heavily.
I am thankful... more than I can say. But sometimes I just wish for simpler... and maybe a shower without someone banging on the door screaming "Mooommmmmyyyyyyyy!!!!"
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Needles to say…
Yeah, I saw that somewhere earlier today and it made me giggle so I had to share.
Okay, so the school is going to let the little punk get away with beating on my kid. Apparently so are the police. Not happy. When they finally spoke to the police, the mother told them that Jaben had hit them first – even tho nobody saw it – and chasing him up the road, knocking him down and kicking him and beating him was all in self defense. And the police in this amazing town seem to be stupid enough to believe it. And the school? Remember that zero tolerance policy? Um, yeah, that’s just for looks, I guess.
Interesting tho, turns out this isn’t the first time the police have been called on these children. A couple of months ago, they were throwing rocks at some other kids (little kids) who live up the street. Their mother came out and told the kids to leave, and they told her to fuck off. For real. So she said if they didn’t leave, she was going to call the police. They told her to fuck off again and that they could do what they wanted. So she called the police and they went to talk to the parents. Once the police left, the dad went down to this woman’s house and screamed at her that his kids could do whatever the fuck they wanted and she couldn’t stop them.
Yeah, they’re nuts.
Legal action (backed by at least 4 families on our street) pending. Not that the cop ever called me back – but that’s fine, I can get the police report without his help, and we’ll be getting a lawyer. Several families on the block would LOVE to take legal action against these nuts. Not sure what we can accomplish this way, but if the police won’t protect our children from these delinquents and their oh-so-proud parents, then we’ll do it ourselves.
Oh, and I AM enrolling Jaben in a martial arts class too. He’s excited – he’s wanted to do it for a while. Now I just have to find him a good school. And the hitting ban has been lifted. If he’s hit, he’s to hit back and make sure to inflict damage. Remember – we TRIED to do things the right way, but look where that gets ya. So… if he has to fight, then fight he will.
And they DAMN WELL better not try to suspend him.
Okay, so the school is going to let the little punk get away with beating on my kid. Apparently so are the police. Not happy. When they finally spoke to the police, the mother told them that Jaben had hit them first – even tho nobody saw it – and chasing him up the road, knocking him down and kicking him and beating him was all in self defense. And the police in this amazing town seem to be stupid enough to believe it. And the school? Remember that zero tolerance policy? Um, yeah, that’s just for looks, I guess.
Interesting tho, turns out this isn’t the first time the police have been called on these children. A couple of months ago, they were throwing rocks at some other kids (little kids) who live up the street. Their mother came out and told the kids to leave, and they told her to fuck off. For real. So she said if they didn’t leave, she was going to call the police. They told her to fuck off again and that they could do what they wanted. So she called the police and they went to talk to the parents. Once the police left, the dad went down to this woman’s house and screamed at her that his kids could do whatever the fuck they wanted and she couldn’t stop them.
Yeah, they’re nuts.
Legal action (backed by at least 4 families on our street) pending. Not that the cop ever called me back – but that’s fine, I can get the police report without his help, and we’ll be getting a lawyer. Several families on the block would LOVE to take legal action against these nuts. Not sure what we can accomplish this way, but if the police won’t protect our children from these delinquents and their oh-so-proud parents, then we’ll do it ourselves.
Oh, and I AM enrolling Jaben in a martial arts class too. He’s excited – he’s wanted to do it for a while. Now I just have to find him a good school. And the hitting ban has been lifted. If he’s hit, he’s to hit back and make sure to inflict damage. Remember – we TRIED to do things the right way, but look where that gets ya. So… if he has to fight, then fight he will.
And they DAMN WELL better not try to suspend him.
Friday, November 10, 2006
It never ends, does it?
I haven't posted about my nut-job neighbors before, but now I have to. They are a couple with 2 kids. The children belong to the mother, they are one year apart and have 2 different fathers. Not judging, just stating. The guy is the stepfather -- I think. I don't even know if they're actually married.
Anyway, they rent the house next door. We were actually happy when they moved in because the kids are close to Jaben's age -- the boy is 11 and the girl, I think, is 10. They're both in Jabe's grade at school. Unfortunately, they've been nothing but trouble since the day they moved in. They have broken my swing set, the boy has taken one of KYAN'S toys (remember he's 11) and took it into his house. When I went to get it, the mother verbally attacked me. I mean really - an 11 yr old taking a baby's toys is OKAY with her? Explains a lot. Every time Jaben walks out the door they scream "fag" at him... nice kids, huh? The boy sits in the tree in his backyard when Jaben is outside and yells obscenities at him. All this is absolutely bad enough, but recently it has become physically violent.
Last week, the boy shoved Jaben into the bushes and hit him enough to leave bruises up his side. Not a lot I could do about it... no witnesses and like I said, the mom is nuts. And the step dad? Like, 6'4" and scary with a temper. NOT the kind of parents you approach. They probably taught him to act like this. The girl has verbally attacked Jaben at school, but no teachers saw it so she got away with it.
It all ends today.
Today, they jumped Jaben on the way home from school. The two of them together pushed him down, and while the girl kicked him, the boy walloped him with his backpack. Jaben got up and ran away, but they chased him and did it again. Normally there wouldn't be a whole lot I could do because it'd be their word against his. Except today someone saw them! THANK GOD! Justin's (Jabe's friend) grandmother was watching out the window for the boys to come home and saw the whole thing!!! She called me to tell me what she'd seen, and said she was absolutely willing to talk to the principal as well as the police!! Finally - an adult witness!!!
So, rather than go to my parent/teacher conference, we went to see the principal. Seems like they take a pretty tough line on this -- zero tolerance policy in the schools (we'll see HOW zero), and he encouraged me to go see the police. I told him that was our next stop. He wanted the name of the officer we talked to when we were finished because, he said, the police and the school work together on these things. Good to know.
Next stop -- the police station.
Now, let me be the first to say, I really didn't want it to come to this, and if there was any other way to protect my child and just make it stop, I'd have done it. But there wasn't, and there isn't. And now I have a witness to prove what they've been doing to him. So, we talked to an officer. I gave him the grandmother's name and phone number and told him she said she would tell them what she saw, so while Jaben was writing out his statement, he went and called her and she and Justin came right down. She told the officer what she saw and gave him a written statement as well.
He said they'd go talk to the neighbors and get their side (which I expected) and then come Monday, they'd talk to the school and everything would be submitted to the prosecutors office thru juvenile court. Fortunately it shouldn't be too rough since we've got a credible adult witness and it wouldn't be just the kids' words against each other. I don't know what happens to the kids, what the punishment is, but I really wish it was that they had to move out of the neighborhood, because I'm afraid at this point that's all that would work.
So, while Jaben's okay, things are ugly and I'm afraid that once the neighbors find out that we've pressed charges against their little darlings, it's going to get uglier. I have no shame for telling the officer that I'm afraid of the step father. For that matter, the mother could take me, easy. I'm not a fighter and I haven't raised my kids to be either. That's just not the way we do things. I hope they just accept what their kids have done and deal with it, but there's always a chance, knowing how they are, that they'll somehow blame US.
NOT the way to start the weekend.
Anyway, they rent the house next door. We were actually happy when they moved in because the kids are close to Jaben's age -- the boy is 11 and the girl, I think, is 10. They're both in Jabe's grade at school. Unfortunately, they've been nothing but trouble since the day they moved in. They have broken my swing set, the boy has taken one of KYAN'S toys (remember he's 11) and took it into his house. When I went to get it, the mother verbally attacked me. I mean really - an 11 yr old taking a baby's toys is OKAY with her? Explains a lot. Every time Jaben walks out the door they scream "fag" at him... nice kids, huh? The boy sits in the tree in his backyard when Jaben is outside and yells obscenities at him. All this is absolutely bad enough, but recently it has become physically violent.
Last week, the boy shoved Jaben into the bushes and hit him enough to leave bruises up his side. Not a lot I could do about it... no witnesses and like I said, the mom is nuts. And the step dad? Like, 6'4" and scary with a temper. NOT the kind of parents you approach. They probably taught him to act like this. The girl has verbally attacked Jaben at school, but no teachers saw it so she got away with it.
It all ends today.
Today, they jumped Jaben on the way home from school. The two of them together pushed him down, and while the girl kicked him, the boy walloped him with his backpack. Jaben got up and ran away, but they chased him and did it again. Normally there wouldn't be a whole lot I could do because it'd be their word against his. Except today someone saw them! THANK GOD! Justin's (Jabe's friend) grandmother was watching out the window for the boys to come home and saw the whole thing!!! She called me to tell me what she'd seen, and said she was absolutely willing to talk to the principal as well as the police!! Finally - an adult witness!!!
So, rather than go to my parent/teacher conference, we went to see the principal. Seems like they take a pretty tough line on this -- zero tolerance policy in the schools (we'll see HOW zero), and he encouraged me to go see the police. I told him that was our next stop. He wanted the name of the officer we talked to when we were finished because, he said, the police and the school work together on these things. Good to know.
Next stop -- the police station.
Now, let me be the first to say, I really didn't want it to come to this, and if there was any other way to protect my child and just make it stop, I'd have done it. But there wasn't, and there isn't. And now I have a witness to prove what they've been doing to him. So, we talked to an officer. I gave him the grandmother's name and phone number and told him she said she would tell them what she saw, so while Jaben was writing out his statement, he went and called her and she and Justin came right down. She told the officer what she saw and gave him a written statement as well.
He said they'd go talk to the neighbors and get their side (which I expected) and then come Monday, they'd talk to the school and everything would be submitted to the prosecutors office thru juvenile court. Fortunately it shouldn't be too rough since we've got a credible adult witness and it wouldn't be just the kids' words against each other. I don't know what happens to the kids, what the punishment is, but I really wish it was that they had to move out of the neighborhood, because I'm afraid at this point that's all that would work.
So, while Jaben's okay, things are ugly and I'm afraid that once the neighbors find out that we've pressed charges against their little darlings, it's going to get uglier. I have no shame for telling the officer that I'm afraid of the step father. For that matter, the mother could take me, easy. I'm not a fighter and I haven't raised my kids to be either. That's just not the way we do things. I hope they just accept what their kids have done and deal with it, but there's always a chance, knowing how they are, that they'll somehow blame US.
NOT the way to start the weekend.
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
Happy (belated) Halloween!
So trick or treat was last night. My guys were a cute little green dragon and a scary, bloody insane clown. Guess which kid was which? LOL! The dragon was in NO mood for it last night tho so I got no good pics of him. I have one from the Cub party last week so at least that's something. The little dragon and I went for about 1/2 hr, then the big, scary clown and my sister went for the next hour while we went home (he screamed the WHOLE WAY) and handed out candy. Ky kept getting into the candy bucket and every time he did I'd tell him he had to say "trick or treat!" He fell for it for a while and then would give me this "look" and just fall back on his usual "peas?"
Jaben and Keli had a great time together tho. I swear Kel is just an overgrown kid! And we've got enough candy to last for months!!!
On a less-than-fun note, it seems that this ADD thing is one step forward and 2 steps back. I got a detention notice from Jaben's teacher. Generally, when they forget supplies they lose 5 pts. But according to the detention slip, she says losing 5 pts doesn't seem to phase him so she's giving him detention.
My first thought upon reading this was "Huh?" That makes absolutely no sense to me. I can't see how sitting thru detention will help him remember his stuff. So, I may have put my foot in it, but I signed the slip and sent a note along with it saying that I'm not sure detention for this is productive for my son, and I think other strategies need to be implemented. I told her I thought I needed to speak to the counselor again and see what can be done since testing thru the school hasn't begun yet and the Dr doesn't want to treat until we get him set at school. I just don't think detention is the answer.
So I called the school, and the counselor isn't in today but they said they'd call him at the school he's at today and have him call me. There's just got to be something we can do to get Jabe thru until we can get the darn testing done!! This kid went thru this in 3rd grade and it got to the point where he was begging to be home schooled... I can see this year heading in the same direction and I absolutely refuse to allow it to happen again. So, something different has to be done. He's a good boy, very sensitive and all this over-the-top "discipline" BS is doing is scaring him and making him feel bad about himself -- exactly the opposite of what I, at least, want to accomplish.
***update from later in the day***
I did hear back from the counselor and he agrees with me that detention for forgetting something is counter-productive in Jaben's case and said that he will speak with the teacher when he's at the school tomorrow to see what they can come up with, strategy-wise. He also said that he will talk to Jaben to see how he's doing, where he feels he needs help and maybe to give him suggestions on how to make things work a little better for him.
He is giving the ADD testing over to the other counselor tho, and that kinda sux. Because I feel comfortable with him, but the other counselor is at the school more, so he feels she should handle it. I understand, even if I’m not thrilled. I LIKE him, he “gets it.” Gosh, before I hung up he commented on how my involvement and support goes a long way toward helping Jaben – and that just blew me away! I’m not used to getting that from the schools.
I should hear soon about the first meeting with the teachers and psychologist. I’m not excited about that part… not knowing what to expect and so much negativity over the years has made me leery. But if we can get thru that first step, maybe we can get my boy some much-needed help and treatment this year before we end up with a repeat of 3rd grade.
Just for the record… ADD can bite me.
Jaben and Keli had a great time together tho. I swear Kel is just an overgrown kid! And we've got enough candy to last for months!!!
On a less-than-fun note, it seems that this ADD thing is one step forward and 2 steps back. I got a detention notice from Jaben's teacher. Generally, when they forget supplies they lose 5 pts. But according to the detention slip, she says losing 5 pts doesn't seem to phase him so she's giving him detention.
My first thought upon reading this was "Huh?" That makes absolutely no sense to me. I can't see how sitting thru detention will help him remember his stuff. So, I may have put my foot in it, but I signed the slip and sent a note along with it saying that I'm not sure detention for this is productive for my son, and I think other strategies need to be implemented. I told her I thought I needed to speak to the counselor again and see what can be done since testing thru the school hasn't begun yet and the Dr doesn't want to treat until we get him set at school. I just don't think detention is the answer.
So I called the school, and the counselor isn't in today but they said they'd call him at the school he's at today and have him call me. There's just got to be something we can do to get Jabe thru until we can get the darn testing done!! This kid went thru this in 3rd grade and it got to the point where he was begging to be home schooled... I can see this year heading in the same direction and I absolutely refuse to allow it to happen again. So, something different has to be done. He's a good boy, very sensitive and all this over-the-top "discipline" BS is doing is scaring him and making him feel bad about himself -- exactly the opposite of what I, at least, want to accomplish.
***update from later in the day***
I did hear back from the counselor and he agrees with me that detention for forgetting something is counter-productive in Jaben's case and said that he will speak with the teacher when he's at the school tomorrow to see what they can come up with, strategy-wise. He also said that he will talk to Jaben to see how he's doing, where he feels he needs help and maybe to give him suggestions on how to make things work a little better for him.
He is giving the ADD testing over to the other counselor tho, and that kinda sux. Because I feel comfortable with him, but the other counselor is at the school more, so he feels she should handle it. I understand, even if I’m not thrilled. I LIKE him, he “gets it.” Gosh, before I hung up he commented on how my involvement and support goes a long way toward helping Jaben – and that just blew me away! I’m not used to getting that from the schools.
I should hear soon about the first meeting with the teachers and psychologist. I’m not excited about that part… not knowing what to expect and so much negativity over the years has made me leery. But if we can get thru that first step, maybe we can get my boy some much-needed help and treatment this year before we end up with a repeat of 3rd grade.
Just for the record… ADD can bite me.
Monday, October 30, 2006
Doodlebops Live!
Yesterday my boys and I got to see the hottest show this season – among the toddler set! We were lucky enough to go see the Doodlebops Live!
They played in Cleveland yesterday and the boys and I were lucky enough to catch the 4:00 show. Our seats weren’t as good as I’d have liked, but we could see really well, and weren’t in the nosebleed section so we definitely can’t complain.
I haven’t seen many kids’ shows live, Blues Clues and Sesame Street when Jaben was little, so I don’t have much experience with these shows, but as far as I’m concerned, Doodlebops is totally worth the money! The show begins with Busdriver Bob coming on the stage for a “pre-show party” where they show other cartoon show commercials (think Handy Manny and Little Einsteins – Kyan screamed and giggled when they showed his beloved ‘Nine-nines) and pumped up the crowd. I knew beforehand that it was the REAL Doodlebops, but I’m pretty sure that was NOT Busdriver Bob. Unless he had a cold. And 15 extra lbs. Bob is Ky’s favorite, but being 1–3/4 I don’t think he noticed.
After Bob was finished, DeeDee, Rooney and Moe came on and it was so much like the tv show! Moe did his usual hiding trick, and in between songs they played and visited all the familiar places. We saw the Doodlebops clubhouse, the recording studio, and they even had a strange little version of the Doodlebops bus! That was pretty funny, actually!
At one point when DeeDee was singing, she brought some little kids on the stage – which in itself is sweet and cute, but before she went back to her seat one little girl ran over and gave DeeDee a hug and said something to her. DeeDee replied, right into her mike, “Ohhh… thank you! You’re very pretty too!” and giggled. It was absolutely the sweetest moment of the show.
All in all, it was such a great time! I love it when things go well and the boys and I are able to have a good time together. I wasn’t sure how Kyan would do (he threw a gigantic fit before we left and in trying to get him out the door I forgot my camera!!) but he loved it! He clapped and cheered and danced on my lap the whole time – it was great! And Jaben… lol… I never would’ve thought that at 10 he could be so into a kids’ show – let alone a concert! But he was great! He enjoyed every second of it! My mom sent some money to buy each boy a souvenir, and Jaben chose this weird rubber “Moe hair” thing to wear on his head – and he wore it the whole time. He loves Moe – and I really wish I’d had my camera because it was soooo funny to see him wearing it!! When I left this morning one of our pumpkins was wearing the “Moe wig.”
I really should get a picture of that!!
The only downer about the show was souvenirs. They were ridiculously expensive!! I’m sorry - $15 for a program of a KIDS SHOW?? Um… no, sorry, not gonna happen. And the little blinking, twirling light-up things? $25. I kid you not -- $25 for one of those little suckers. I wanted to get the boys one SO BAD, but that would’ve been $50 and it ain’t possible. Even if it was possible, it ain’t likely. Imagine the profit margin on those things!!!! Over 75% per unit, easily. I paid enough for the tickets, as long as my boys got something to take home (and $15 for a Moe wig is insane enough – Ky got a more reasonably priced $8 ‘Bops sippy cup) there’s no way I was paying that much for that stuff.
So that kinda sucked.
But for a few hours with your kids, and a fun time dancing, shouting and singing, the Doodlebops Live! is definitely worth the price of admission!! Just be prepared to say NO! to a few overpriced souvenirs that your kids (and possibly YOU) are gonna want.
I wanna go again!!!!!!
They played in Cleveland yesterday and the boys and I were lucky enough to catch the 4:00 show. Our seats weren’t as good as I’d have liked, but we could see really well, and weren’t in the nosebleed section so we definitely can’t complain.
I haven’t seen many kids’ shows live, Blues Clues and Sesame Street when Jaben was little, so I don’t have much experience with these shows, but as far as I’m concerned, Doodlebops is totally worth the money! The show begins with Busdriver Bob coming on the stage for a “pre-show party” where they show other cartoon show commercials (think Handy Manny and Little Einsteins – Kyan screamed and giggled when they showed his beloved ‘Nine-nines) and pumped up the crowd. I knew beforehand that it was the REAL Doodlebops, but I’m pretty sure that was NOT Busdriver Bob. Unless he had a cold. And 15 extra lbs. Bob is Ky’s favorite, but being 1–3/4 I don’t think he noticed.
After Bob was finished, DeeDee, Rooney and Moe came on and it was so much like the tv show! Moe did his usual hiding trick, and in between songs they played and visited all the familiar places. We saw the Doodlebops clubhouse, the recording studio, and they even had a strange little version of the Doodlebops bus! That was pretty funny, actually!
At one point when DeeDee was singing, she brought some little kids on the stage – which in itself is sweet and cute, but before she went back to her seat one little girl ran over and gave DeeDee a hug and said something to her. DeeDee replied, right into her mike, “Ohhh… thank you! You’re very pretty too!” and giggled. It was absolutely the sweetest moment of the show.
All in all, it was such a great time! I love it when things go well and the boys and I are able to have a good time together. I wasn’t sure how Kyan would do (he threw a gigantic fit before we left and in trying to get him out the door I forgot my camera!!) but he loved it! He clapped and cheered and danced on my lap the whole time – it was great! And Jaben… lol… I never would’ve thought that at 10 he could be so into a kids’ show – let alone a concert! But he was great! He enjoyed every second of it! My mom sent some money to buy each boy a souvenir, and Jaben chose this weird rubber “Moe hair” thing to wear on his head – and he wore it the whole time. He loves Moe – and I really wish I’d had my camera because it was soooo funny to see him wearing it!! When I left this morning one of our pumpkins was wearing the “Moe wig.”
I really should get a picture of that!!
The only downer about the show was souvenirs. They were ridiculously expensive!! I’m sorry - $15 for a program of a KIDS SHOW?? Um… no, sorry, not gonna happen. And the little blinking, twirling light-up things? $25. I kid you not -- $25 for one of those little suckers. I wanted to get the boys one SO BAD, but that would’ve been $50 and it ain’t possible. Even if it was possible, it ain’t likely. Imagine the profit margin on those things!!!! Over 75% per unit, easily. I paid enough for the tickets, as long as my boys got something to take home (and $15 for a Moe wig is insane enough – Ky got a more reasonably priced $8 ‘Bops sippy cup) there’s no way I was paying that much for that stuff.
So that kinda sucked.
But for a few hours with your kids, and a fun time dancing, shouting and singing, the Doodlebops Live! is definitely worth the price of admission!! Just be prepared to say NO! to a few overpriced souvenirs that your kids (and possibly YOU) are gonna want.
I wanna go again!!!!!!
Monday, October 23, 2006
I kinda suck at this sometimes
Sorry, sometimes I get involved in life and the blog doesn’t get updated. For a week. Um, yeah. I’m not sure I’m very good at this. I’m sure I’d do a much better job if there was a way to make money at it… heh… but apparently there isn’t. At least not for me. Cuz I’m not very good at it. Unless you want to send donations. Um…. yeah, that’s it.
I had a meeting with Jabe’s school principal this week. On Friday, actually. The story is that on Weds Jabe cheated on a test a little. I say a little cuz he didn’t have a cheat sheet, didn’t write the answers on the bottom of his shoes, or have an earpiece with a kid in the tree outside the window feeding him the answers. What he did was when they were grading the tests – their own tests – he changed one of his answers. Not that that’s right to do, and yes, it’s cheating, but seriously, who hasn’t?? I was a * good * kid and I did it.
They gave him detention. Great, fine, well deserved. He got in trouble at home. Great, fine, well deserved.
He got taken to the principal’s office on Thurs where all 3 of his teachers and the principal sat around him to talk to him about it.
I don’t know about y’all, but that one seems like a bit of overkill to me. Not to mention that it scared the crap out of a basically good, if troubled kid. But, being who I am, I decided to give them the benefit of the doubt. Not, for a second, was I ever going to believe that bringing a child to the principal’s office and basically surrounding him with all the adults in charge of his day to confront him on an admittedly small cheat, is ever going to be okay with me. But, I needed to hear their side of the story. Especially after the meltdown he had over his homework that night – the details of which I am not at liberty to share, at his request.
On Friday, I had planned to call Principal, but instead found that Jaben was missing a notebook he needed and since I was bringing the notebook to him anyway, decided to drop in on Principal and have a chat. I told Principal I knew about what happened and I do agree that Jabe’s actions warranted detention and a trip to the Principal, but I wasn’t sure of the point of having all the teachers there and sitting around him like that, so, could he please tell me his side of the story?
The school’s take on this, from the mouth of Principal himself, is that they decided to bring Jaben in, with all the teachers, to show him that they were a team, working for his benefit, and that they were all supporting him. They talked about his grades from all his classes – which are all good, btw – and told him he didn’t need to cheat like that. Rah rah rah?
While this may very well be a case of right idea, executed badly, I’m not sure I forgive them. I can’t imagine thinking about this and coming to the conclusion that a meeting of this nature wouldn’t be absolutely terrifying to a 10-yr old boy. And based on Principal’s lack of eye contact, I can only conclude that he knew he was scaring my boy. I mean really, the other kids went to their 3rd period class, and Jaben was told to stay with the teacher. She then took him to the principal’s office where he and Jaben’s other 2 teachers were waiting. And this was * not * meant to scare this child?
There was something I didn’t like about Principal to begin with, and picking on a child with Jaben’s issues just makes me think he’s a bully. He might act like a great guy, and when I walked out of that meeting I couldn’t quite put my finger on what was off about him, but I think I’ve figured it out… he strikes me as an overgrown bully. Course I may be a bit sensitive because this is my child who is now afraid of his principal and teachers, but seriously, how is this * not* scary?
Ugh. Just ugh.
On the bright side, the last football game of the season was yesterday (we froze AND lost… good times), Cub Scouts will be starting on Tuesday, and the boys are officially moved into the room they are now sharing (even if Ky isn’t sleeping there yet). Thankfully we shouldn’t be as busy now, but I think I’d better reserve the right to have life get in the way of blogging about life every now and again.
I had a meeting with Jabe’s school principal this week. On Friday, actually. The story is that on Weds Jabe cheated on a test a little. I say a little cuz he didn’t have a cheat sheet, didn’t write the answers on the bottom of his shoes, or have an earpiece with a kid in the tree outside the window feeding him the answers. What he did was when they were grading the tests – their own tests – he changed one of his answers. Not that that’s right to do, and yes, it’s cheating, but seriously, who hasn’t?? I was a * good * kid and I did it.
They gave him detention. Great, fine, well deserved. He got in trouble at home. Great, fine, well deserved.
He got taken to the principal’s office on Thurs where all 3 of his teachers and the principal sat around him to talk to him about it.
I don’t know about y’all, but that one seems like a bit of overkill to me. Not to mention that it scared the crap out of a basically good, if troubled kid. But, being who I am, I decided to give them the benefit of the doubt. Not, for a second, was I ever going to believe that bringing a child to the principal’s office and basically surrounding him with all the adults in charge of his day to confront him on an admittedly small cheat, is ever going to be okay with me. But, I needed to hear their side of the story. Especially after the meltdown he had over his homework that night – the details of which I am not at liberty to share, at his request.
On Friday, I had planned to call Principal, but instead found that Jaben was missing a notebook he needed and since I was bringing the notebook to him anyway, decided to drop in on Principal and have a chat. I told Principal I knew about what happened and I do agree that Jabe’s actions warranted detention and a trip to the Principal, but I wasn’t sure of the point of having all the teachers there and sitting around him like that, so, could he please tell me his side of the story?
The school’s take on this, from the mouth of Principal himself, is that they decided to bring Jaben in, with all the teachers, to show him that they were a team, working for his benefit, and that they were all supporting him. They talked about his grades from all his classes – which are all good, btw – and told him he didn’t need to cheat like that. Rah rah rah?
While this may very well be a case of right idea, executed badly, I’m not sure I forgive them. I can’t imagine thinking about this and coming to the conclusion that a meeting of this nature wouldn’t be absolutely terrifying to a 10-yr old boy. And based on Principal’s lack of eye contact, I can only conclude that he knew he was scaring my boy. I mean really, the other kids went to their 3rd period class, and Jaben was told to stay with the teacher. She then took him to the principal’s office where he and Jaben’s other 2 teachers were waiting. And this was * not * meant to scare this child?
There was something I didn’t like about Principal to begin with, and picking on a child with Jaben’s issues just makes me think he’s a bully. He might act like a great guy, and when I walked out of that meeting I couldn’t quite put my finger on what was off about him, but I think I’ve figured it out… he strikes me as an overgrown bully. Course I may be a bit sensitive because this is my child who is now afraid of his principal and teachers, but seriously, how is this * not* scary?
Ugh. Just ugh.
On the bright side, the last football game of the season was yesterday (we froze AND lost… good times), Cub Scouts will be starting on Tuesday, and the boys are officially moved into the room they are now sharing (even if Ky isn’t sleeping there yet). Thankfully we shouldn’t be as busy now, but I think I’d better reserve the right to have life get in the way of blogging about life every now and again.
Monday, October 16, 2006
PEE!!!!
Just thought I'd announce that Kyan went pee-pee on the potty tonight!!!! I'm so excited! He'd been sitting on it but not really doing much, but tonight he did it!! YAY KYAN!!!
Let the games begin!
Let the games begin!
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