Mom's Day

I USED TO:

2010-11-21T11:03:00.001-05:00

sit at the computer and read different entertainment websites;
chat on the phone with girlfriends during the day;
love laying on my bed for 1/2 hour - 1 hour per day to relax and watch a show on HGTV or TLC;
plan my day around "Days of Our Lives";
go to the grocery store everyday;
get Starbucks every morning and usually one other time throughout the day;
think about the projects I wanted to do around the house, but never seemed to complete;
try to organize my kids in such a way that pleased me; etc, etc, etc..........

The list goes on and on. We always seem to evolve and change no matter how old we get. I'm not saying any of those things are wrong - I took care of the kids, made meals, carpooled, did laundry and dishes. I loved doing all of that and still do. If the kids are happy and healthy, it's a no-brainer.

Now, I look forward to my little job and love coming home to my family. Hopefully everyone's becoming more independent. I know I'm more organzized now. And I feel like I've taken a baby step toward a life when my kids are grown.

It's a whole new world with lots of "work" drama. I'm the older, wiser one - which is quite a joke. The young ones that I work with ask my advice and share way to many things with me. I smile, dish out very neutral advice and remember a time when I was just like them.

Glad I am where I am now,
NeuroticMom

Blocked the Kids

2010-11-14T19:55:00.000-05:00

It came time in our household to block certain things on the TV. I have to say, "Love it".

The kids are complaining here and there but I can live with that. If we think the older boys can watch something that's blocked, we easily unblock it. Voila. Easy and simple.

Proud of ourselves,
NeuroticMom

2010-11-10T21:59:00.000-05:00

Friends are everything.

Good Stuff

2010-11-03T19:56:00.000-04:00

I thought I'd never live to see the day that one of my teenage sons told me, "I love going to school. It's awesome!" I nearly fell over...and he was serious (in case you're wondering!).

Makes me so happy that we are sending them to the high school that they wanted and now it's up to them to make great memories, have fun and do well.

I need to sit down and enjoy this moment.

Life is good,

NeuroticMom

The Express

2010-10-26T22:44:00.001-04:00

I just finished watching "The Express". What a great movie. I love movies about true stories and this one is inspiring. Ernie Davis was an African-American football player for Syracuse in the late fifties, early sixties. He lead the team to the National Title in 1959 and he was the first black man to win the Heisman Trophy (1961). I didn't know the history behind the story before I sat down. My fourteen year came in 3/4 of the way through the movie and Ernie had started to experience nose bleeds and wasn't feeling well. I didn't need to say anything, my son sat down and watched the rest of the movie with me. Ernie Davis died of leukemia at the age of 23. He was a player for the Cleveland Browns, who never played in a game because of his illness.

After the movie, my son got up, gave me a kiss good night and said, "I was lucky." You see, my son had leukemia - he is a ten year survivor. With tears in my eyes, I told him he was lucky but I also believe with all of me heart that he is here for a reason - whether he does a million ordinary, simple things with his life or something extraordinary. Maybe his children will do something extraordinary, who knows. But, he is here for a reason....and he was very lucky:)

Counting my blessings,
NeuroticMom

2010-10-17T11:57:00.000-04:00

Where can I find a huge bag of blue raspberry jolly ranchers? Someone please tell me!!!!

We're all addicted,
NeuroticMom

Unfreakin' Believable

2010-10-15T12:01:00.001-04:00

Sorry, but I have to vent.

Since when can't someone on "The View" state their view without the hosts, who make millions of dollars stating their views every freakin' day, walking off on their guests? Someone please tell me. Every day, these women let the world know how they feel about everything. They preach tolerance and diplomacy and BAM - show their true colors. I'm tired of some of the hosts, and you know who, setting the bar for all of us to try to live up to. Please! You get paid the big bucks to debate. You don't agree with Bill O'Reilly's views, you knew it before you sat down with him, you knew he would instigate something and yet you let it get out of control. Congratulations, you made yourselves look like spoiled little girls, which makes us all look bad.

Girls, here's a suggestion (and I'm not pushing my view on anyone): ask a few families who lost their loved ones on 9/11 what they think about a mosque being built a few blocks from Ground Zero. Maybe that will give you the accurate information you should be striving to seek? Maybe you should get a hold of some polls that you say you haven't seen? We don't have time to hear your emotional, preachy views when we're all trying to live our own lives.

Tuned in today to see if there was an apolgy. Now I'm hoping it happens Monday. Ladies, are you embarrassed today or are you still angry? Doesn't matter to me. I won't be tuning in anymore. I don't care what your views are!

Thanks for letting me vent,
NeuroticMom

2010-10-01T17:57:00.000-04:00

Have an awesome weekend. The weather has cleared up and we can finally enjoy some nice "Fall" weather. Soccer games, walks outside and family time. So excited. Enjoy it!

Help...

2010-09-28T08:31:00.001-04:00

Son number 1 (Sophmore) is constantly asking me if a Junior on his soccer team can drive him home after soccer practice. Son number 2 (Freshman) asked once, I said "no" and he hasn't asked again. Calm, easy child (for now). What the hell do I do about the other one? He is a negotiator and pulls every card out of his hat - "you know him" (the driver), "he's responsible", "his parents are okay with it", "we're coming right home", "don't you trust me?"......

A friend of mine gave me a contract that her parents gave to her brother when he started driving (probably 30 years ago), but it's still good for today, even though so many things in the world have changed. I'm seriously thinking of coming up with something similar for the boys about getting in a car with a friend. If they break either contract the punishment will be simple to enforce because they knew the consequences, right?

Scary times ahead - it's not getting easier as they get older. Now I worry that one little mistake can hurt or kill them. It doesn't even have to be their mistake, but they're in the car or driving the car. Any thoughts as to what I should put in our contract? I'll ask my friend if I can share some of the "driver's license contract" with everyone. It will come in handy someday for you too.

Have a good one,
NeuroticMom

2010-09-24T18:10:00.001-04:00

I've survived the first two weeks. The amount of things to learn is crazy, but I'm enjoying it. The time flies by. I just need to get over the guilt - that I won't be there for everything the kids are doing. I told a mom that I just went back to work after sixteen years and feel guilty that I'm happy to have a job. Her response with pure shock in her eyes, "Honey, sixteen years, don't feel guilty." Made me laugh.

And the drama - love it. Many women working in a busy environment is hysterical. I sit back and observe. Quite entertaining.

I'm more organized with meals and spending less money on things I don't need. Although, the refrigerator water line is broken and the floor underneath is now rotted:(

I'm going to enjoy the things that I had my kids DVR for me (Grey's Anatomy and Private Practice) and maybe watch "Wall Street" before seeing the sequel.

Have an awesome weekend,
NeuroticMom

Excited!

2010-09-13T16:11:00.000-04:00

I'm starting a new chapter in my life tomorrow. I am going back to work (P/T) after being home with my children for the last sixteen years. Excited and I have to say - not nervous. I'll be working for a busy dermatologist's office that my family has been going to for the last eight years. I feel at home and am ready for the challenge to learn "the ropes". I don't need a fancy job title. My goal is to be busy. This will definitely take care of that. My husband has a job that can work around my hours (most of the time), my oldest will be driving soon and my youngest is in sixth grade. It's time. I used to be a nervous person - motherhood has prepared me for this new adventure. Nothing's harder or more rewarding than being home with the children. I'm hoping for a positive experience that will make everyone more independent.

I'm organized, don't want any office drama. I want to work and come home to my family, and of course make a little bit of money.

I'll keep you posted,
NeuroticMom

Any free time?

2010-09-10T08:26:00.000-04:00

The kids are now back into the school routine - doing well and off and running with another school year. The problem - I learned about a new computer game that I have been playing in my free time - which is a little more nowadays. It's called BookWorm. Fantastic! It's basically scrabble.

Relatives introduced it to us over the Labor Day weekend. And when I tell you that we were all sitting around the computer playing it, I kid not. It was frustrating - with many thoughts and ideas flying at once. However, playing by yourself or with one of your kids is great. Check it out at PopCap Games. You can download a free sample and buy the game to have handy at anytime:) for $19.95. Young and old and for all of us between - loads of fun.

My high score - 325,840. Father-in-law and help:) - 664,440. Game on!

Have fun,

NeuroticMom

Perfect End to the Summer

2010-08-30T06:25:00.000-04:00

My middle son starts high school this morning. I'm so excited for him. Our advice to him - make it a great four years - get involved, do well and have fun.

To end the summer, we went tubing with friends yesterday. It was a perfect day for it. We've lived in Bucks County for 14 years, always wanted to go and regretted not going every September. Not this year. We floated down the Delaware on a perfect day. Kids (seven boys) had a football, spun around on their tubes(until I would personally throw up), relaxed, caught up with friends and had an awesome lunch on the way home. If you ever have the chance to go - do it!!!!. Trying to come up with something that every one wants to do on a lazy Sunday - is priceless. Go with another family and chill, whether you're moving quickly or not, rapids or not - relax and enjoy. Perfect, perfect, perfect:)

It's a good Monday morning,
NeuroticMom

2010-08-26T20:38:00.000-04:00

I just put a new bottle of soap out in the kitchen and thought I'd blog about it. I always use Bath & Body Works soap - in the kitchen and all of the bathrooms. They are so inexpensive, there are a variety of scents and the products are not tested on animals - what's not to like. The special now is 4 soaps for $10.

Shop away,

NeuroticMom

A Great Idea. Why didn't I think of that?

2010-08-23T22:45:00.000-04:00

Sometimes you hear something, and it's so simplistic and so basic, and you think "How did I not think of that???"
This is one of those things. While trolling through some craft blogs I stumbled upon a post titled 'easy mopping.' And that, right there, grabbed my attention. I have a lot of tiled floor throughout my house. With 3 boys and 1 yellow lab I am constantly cleaning up some kind of tracked in mess. So anything that might make that job 'easy'? Yeah, you have my attention.

This comes from Rachel over at Holy Craft. Rachel, you are a genius. Thank you for sharing your genius with the world:

I just take this old Swiffer that I picked up in the free box at a garage sale
grab one of my old washcloths, and poke all four corners into the little swiffer holes
and have at it! I usually use a wet rag for mopping and sometimes throw some vinegar into some warm water. When you are done mopping, just throw the dirty rag in the washing machine and that's it!

Easy peasy! I already own a swiffer mop. And I hate buying refills. (which is why I n-e-v-e-r use it ;) Can't wait to try this out. Be sure to visit Rachel over at Holy Craft and check out her talented craft ideas too. Thanks Rachel!

Waiting for a mess,
TechnoMom

Great Gap Coupon at Groupon Today!

2010-08-19T09:38:00.000-04:00

Great deal at Groupon today: $50 Gap coupon for $25

Groupon is free to join, once you sign up you will receive a daily Groupon coupon invite via email. I've seen mostly restaurant coupons for my area of the country but I know it varies by where you live. This was my first time ordering a Groupon coupon and it was painless!

You might as well. You know you're going to end up at the Gap ( or babyGap or Gapbody) sometime soon anyway!

Do you Groupon?

TechnoMom

$25 for $50 Worth of Apparel at Gap

$25

worth:	discount:	savings:
$50	50%	$25

Company Information:

Gap

website

Locations:

Valid at all Gap stores.

Snack Time!

2010-08-15T20:55:00.000-04:00

I like a little snack. Especially when I'm sitting on my deck drinking this:

I'm not a huge fan of fatty snacks because I like to do this alot.

I am also a huge fan of the Hungry Girl, (a eat-well, but do it with low-cal, low-fat, guru).

So channeling my inner Hungry Girl, this is what I came up with:

Get a round of this:

Only 35 calories per wedge! ( And one wedge goes a LONG way ;)

Next get a box of these:

You can eat FIFTEEN crackers for 120 calories (with 4g of fat and 5 grams of Fiber!)

I can't even eat a full serving--it's so yummy & filling! One wedge of cheese and 10-12 crackers is a perfect snack with a bottle of wine.

Now you know how I'm spending the rest of my summer nights :)

TechnoMom

Pet Insurance

2010-08-11T09:17:00.000-04:00

It's been a crazy couple of weeks. We were away for five days last week and got a phone call from the neighbor taking care of our dog. Casey (the dog) is rarely sick - a little thing here or there and allergies, that's pretty much the extent of it. She was fine when we left Wednesday afternoon. By Thursday night she was sick. My husband and I were playing pool with a bunch of other baseball parents stuck in a hotel while our children played for the State Championship. Relaxing, drinking and I might add winning every pool game that we played. Life was good. Until....the phone call.

Casey is six years old and couldn't urinate. Five days, two emergency trips to the animal hospital by friends and family, surgery and $3,000 later, our dog is back home with us. She had 20 stones removed from her bladder. Apparently this breed is prone to stones but it's unusual for girls. Of course. We are seriously thinking of pet insurance. I have to make some phone calls today:( Twenty stone doesn't sound like a one time thing as she grows older and her life expectancy is 16-18 years.

You never know,
NeuroticMom

Favorite Sunscreen

2010-07-26T13:38:00.000-04:00

I use sunscreen on my face every single day of the year, without fail. I've recently switched to a new sunscreen and I. am. in. love!

My new fave:

Neutrogena's Ultra Sheer liquid (spf 55).
It is truly sheer. It doesn't leave my face oily. It's like wearing your favorite moisturizer. Once it is absorbed you don't even know it is there! You can apply makeup on top without it getting cakey.

I have tried sooo many sunblocks over the years. I personally use spf 30 as a minimum. I have found that most sunscreens over 30 leave my face feeling greasy or worse, white. Like I could star in the next Twilight film white. Not a good look for me ( or really, anyone).

So glad I found a sunblock that works really well and doesn't feel like sunblock :)

Keeping wrinkles at bay,
TechnoMom

2010-07-14T13:56:00.000-04:00

Took the kids to see "The Last Airbender" this weekend. We really enjoyed it. The ages of the kids spanned from 5-14 years old. Adults liked it too! Check it out if you get a chance. Fun entertainment.

NeuroticMom

Baffled

2010-07-13T12:35:00.001-04:00

I just ordered my son a wristband at powerbalance.com. It's a really cool product. A friend of his left his wristband here last week and we tried it out. Apparently it works with your body's energy. I know it sounds a little weird, but it really worked. If you stand straight and put your arm out in front of you, keep your feet in a solid, stationary position and move your arm around your body as far as you can (without having the wristband on) - mark how far you were able to go. Then, put the band on and try the same thing again. Four out of five of us could move further around our body. My husband did not believe it was the wristband. But now I am seeing these things everywhere - professional athletes are giving testimonials and wearing it (it comes in different styles and colors).

My son's orange and white wristband arrives on the 16th and he's so excited. So, we will cross our fingers and hope it's not a waste of $30.

All keep you posted,

NeuroticMom

Miserable People

2010-07-09T17:26:00.000-04:00

I've had it with coaches who do not give a shit about a kid's feelings. Every time an error is made, every time a kid doesn't get a hit - something is said to bring them down, not boost them up. Why do we let people like this coach? Then, even if you do things right, why aren't you told what a good job you've done?

Last night my eleven year old had a baseball game. They lost 6-9. But the loss is not what has everyone fired up today - it's the mistreatment of the kids. Everyone is really upset about seeing my son hysterically crying coming out of the dugout at the end of the game. You see, he doesn't cry. He's known for that. He cried several times during the course of a six inning game last night. They said he missed a sign - six other kids on the team said he didn't - and he made the last out of the game. I should tell you that he played the entire game at second base, had no errors, walked twice, got hit by a pitch and that last out of the game was a few feet away from being a grand slam. But none of that seems to matter. The coach who screamed at him for missing the sign, picked his bat up when the outfielder caught his ball and threw it at a fence. Son asked him why he did it, coach said he was frustrated and son told him, "It doesn't belong to you." Isn't that simple - "it doesn't belong to you". AND you should set a good example.

The lesson I told my son last night: a man is not jugded by the way he reacts to things during good times, it's when times are tough that a man is truly tested and judged. It's easy to make the right decision when we are happy and life is great.

I think at this point, a parent may go nuts tonight if one of these kids gets yelled at and starts crying. And to all of the coaches out there: you won't get a child's respect and best playing efforts when they're scared to death. Be a good example and the kids will want to win for you, not because they're afraid of you! Of course this does not apply to people who are coaching their own kids - that's a whole different story!

I've vented,
NeuroticMom

Funny Story

2010-07-01T20:17:00.000-04:00

My husband and two of the boys went to the grocery store the other night to pick up a few things. I was sick in bed with a sinus infection. My children rarely go the the grocery store. Why? Because it's too much aggravation and I don't like to spend money on the things they always ask for. It's easier to go alone! Of course, they have to help unload the car when I get home!

Anyway, back to the story: older son went in one direction taking what mom had said over the speaker phone in the car literally - "let them each get a few things that they want". He went in search of the little coke glass bottles (came home with 2 six packs). Ridiculous! My husband and other son were frustrated and just wanted to get what they needed and get the hell out of the store. So what did they do? - hid behind a display on the son who went in search of the glass soda bottles.

What happens? - two of the older son's girl friends came up behind them and asked where son #1 was and what my husband and son #2 were doing? Well of course they wanted to join in the fun. Can't picture it but would have paid money to see it - my husband, fourteen year old son, a fifteen year old girl and sixteen year old girl hiding behind a display at the Acme!

LOL,
NeuroticMom

Tough Conversation

2010-06-27T09:27:00.001-04:00

Last night, my husband and I decided to tell my children something that we have always wanted to tell them, but never really had a reason to do. I got a phone call yesterday from my parents saying my uncle is very ill. He has had cancer in the past, but is now in the hospital. They have found spots on his liver and pancreas. It doesn't look good. After I hung up the phone, I told my husband that we need to tell the children. I've said it here and there over the years if someone has become sick, but we would decide not to. Time would pass. This time he agreed.

Soon after we were married, I became pregnant, carried the baby seven months, went for a routine check-up and the doctor could not find a heartbeat. I was induced and delivered a perfect, tiny baby boy that had gotten wrapped in his umbilical cord. We were devasted. We held a small funeral with immediate family and his name was placed on the tombstone of my family's plot. My children have never been to the cemetery. It's in NY. My husband and I would visit it occassionally or I would go when the kids were little and we were there for a visit. Our oldest son was born ten months later and time went on.

It's always been right there - the two of us wanting to tell them, worrying that they would be mad and upset when they found out. Our oldest will be sixteen. Being a neurotic female, I thought it might change their lives, worried they would become depressed, etc. They were great. After a really nice conversation and many questions and many realizations ("I would be a middle child, not the oldest", "I'm the fourth, not the third", "was he cute?", "how sad were you when you had him?", "when was he born?", etc.), life went on. More questions will pop up I'm sure - one was "will we be buried with him someday?" - which turned into a conversation about when they get married and have a family of their own.

I'm relieved it's out there now and thankful they appeared fine with the news.

A weight's been lifted,
NeuroticMom

Mom 101

2010-06-26T09:34:00.002-04:00

Good morning:)

Thought I'd pass along a tid bit of information with the mosquitos and other bugs that drive me crazy, mocking us this time of year.

My youngest son got out of the pool a few days ago and had a few bug bites on his neck. The bites were in a cluster. Within 36-48 hours he had a few more bite-looking marks in that area and it was spreading. He is highly prone to poison ivy, oak, sumac, etc. Since he was going to the doctor Friday morning to have staples taken out of his head from a previous pool incident, I asked the doctor what it was. He has a staff infection - probably from a bug bite. Ten days of bactrim. He already hates it but the infection already looks better, after only 3 doses. He has to stay out of the pool for a few days and not share towels with anyone. Pretty easy - I'm just concerned of the side effects as the medicine builds up in his system. Hopefully his stomach will be able to handle it.

It never ends,
NeuroticMom

The Karate Kid

2010-06-24T17:37:00.000-04:00

I took my youngest and a few of his friends to the movies today. We saw The Karate Kid and I have to say it was really good. I'm always leary of a remake - aren't we all? Well, you will be pleasantly surprised. I loved Jackie Chan and Jaden Smith. The kids had a ball and I'm "cool" mom today.

NeuroticMom

Tennis Anyone?

2010-06-23T17:43:00.000-04:00

WOW - if you didn't have a chance to see Wimbledon today, watch Sports Center or go on the internet. It was unbelievable! Isner had it right at the suspension of play today - "This will never happen again!"
How could it? The next closest match in the records book ended at 21-19 in the fifth set.

Good luck tomorrow. Pretty good day for US sports between soccer and tennis.

Exhausted from watching,
NeuroticMom

World Cup Baby!

2010-06-23T09:30:00.000-04:00

Go USA!

Even though soccer is not as popular here in the USA, we love it. And of course we are praying for a USA win this morning.

Bring home a win,

NeuroticMom

Starting Out on a Good Foot

2010-06-21T09:05:00.000-04:00

I walked for an hour, got my husband and I coffee, put in a load of wash, have a pound of bacon sizzling and the frying pan out for aggs when my children wake up. And it's not even 9am. Not bad, but will it continue. I sure hope so!

I've made another goal for myself - put 80-90 ounces of water on the counter in the morning and finish it by dinner time. I used to drink this much and I felt so much better in the evening - not as bloated.

Let me know if you have any little hints for the summer. I'm hoping to incorporate these things in and have great habits by the time school starts again.

Have a great day,

NeuroticMom

2010-06-20T23:30:00.002-04:00

They lost the game, but we did have our dinner together!

Can't Even Believe It!

2010-06-20T17:27:00.000-04:00

Happy Father's Day.

I'm sure everyone is making the day special. I know I am. I've seen my husband for a total of 15 minutes today, fought with 2 out of 3 of my children, haven't showered yet and I'm hoping to make a nice meal for an 8:15pm sit down time. Nice.

The two children I've fought with want to make plans for late this afternoon, but I won't let them. Come hell or high water, we're eating dinner together. Oh yea, we can't eat dinner until later because my poor husband is watching my poor son play in a soccer tournament in New Jersey in 95 degrees. My son, who got picked up at 7:15 this morning and is now playing in the 5:05pm championship, will come home and pass out before I put dinner on the table. I'll just have to prop him up!

And the reason I'm not at the game right now - driving to and from hockey and baseball and I won't put my kids through the ride out to NJ and make them sit in this heat. Seriously, sports should be off-limits on Father's Day (Mother's Day too)!

Hope your Father's Day was better than my husband's (and mine).

NeuroticMom

2010-06-18T09:25:00.001-04:00

I didn't get up and get things done. I actually feel hung-over and didn't drink a drop of alcohol last night. Fifteen families hosted an eighth grade graduation party last night and I am exhausted today. BUT, summer officially starts at 12pm. Bring it on - I'm looking forward to it!

It's a beautiful day, my kids are happy and safe -what more could anyone want?

Happy Birthday TechnoMom! Let's have a drink later - we deserve it! Holy crap - it's not even a big birthday - what's up with the unbelievable gifts!

Make it a great one,
NeuroticMom

Bountiful Birthday

2010-06-18T08:25:00.000-04:00

Oh boy! Oh boy! Oh boy!

My family showered me with birthday presents this morning before the kiddies were off to their last day of school and hubs departed for a golf tournament.

Here's my grab from this morning:

iPhone4

(This is replacing my old iphone which is acting like a dinosaur after 2 short years of life.)

iPad3G

Oh my goodness!! I am blown. away.

Spendingtherestofthedaywithmyipad,

TechnoMom

2010-06-17T16:19:00.003-04:00

Summer, Summer, Summer...

Summer is here! The kids are out of school and my goal for the summer is to blog daily. It's a goal, not a promise.

One goal I have for the summer is waking up at 7am (the latest) and getting the mundane chores of the day done (1 or 2 loads of laundry, empty the dishwasher, walk several mornings a week, Starbuck's run and anything I need at the grocery store for the day) before my kids wake up. Life will be so much easier if I can do this, right?

Blog to you tomorrow,
NeuroticMom

Question...

2010-06-10T13:26:00.003-04:00

Why do English, Australian, Italian, etc. singers not have an accent when they sing? My fifteen year old recently asked me this question, which brought back memories of a time when I wondered the same thing.

If anyone knows the answer, let me know.

Driving us crazy,
NeuroticMom

Move Over George Clooney...

2010-06-01T17:36:00.000-04:00

That's right! There's a new hottie in town. And he. is. HOT.

Let me introduce you to 'that hot guy' from the new Sex and the City 2, ladies, Mr. Max Ryan:

Mr. Max here plays the love interest of Samantha. This picture does NOT do him justice.

And for more eye candy, Carrie's old boyfriend Aidan (John Corbett irl):

It is worth it to see this movie just to spend a couple of hours looking at these guys ;) And the shoes and the clothes don't hurt either!

Holy Hotty Heaven,

TechnoMom

Comfy Summer Sandals

2010-05-18T06:00:00.003-04:00

On Thursday NeuroticMom and I are going to be chaperoning our 8th grade class trip to New York City. We are leaving at 10am and won't be back til midnight. That means we will spend many hours walking around the city.

I am really looking forward to it-- even all the walking!

The most important thing to have when spending a day roaming the best city in the world with a group of eighth graders (besides a LOT of patience) is an excellent pair of shoes.
Comfort is key. Style is a close second; but comfort trumps all.

So what does one choose as footwear that will fit both criteria of comfort and style?

Fitflops!

So cute. Sooo comfy! I bought my first pair last summer. The brand motto is : Get a workout while you walk. (It's imprinted on the bottom of every shoe they sell). I can't say I've noticed any changes in my derriere from wearing these shoes, but I do think they provide more support than a normal flipflop. They have a thicker sole (which a short person like me really appreciates!)

Here's a description from the website:

Very possibly our prettiest sandal so far, our patent leatherPietra sports, a sleek metallic microfiber-lined upper embellished with three resin jewel stones down the toe line. Built on a slimmed-width version of our muscle-toning Microwobbleboard™ midsole, so you not only look fabulous and feminine, but you get a workout while you walk™ Click here for info on Microwobbleboard technology.

I chose the Pietra model in the color Pewter (love!):

So if your plans include a lot of walking and you'd like to sport cute footwear at the same time try a pair of Fitflops. *And let me know what you think!

Walking Tall,

TechnoMom

* NeuroticMom, I think you should get a pair too! ($59 @ Velvet Slipper)

How'd They Do That?

2010-05-15T08:41:00.000-04:00

My son went to a pool party Thursday afternoon. Well before I left from dropping him off, he approached me with, "Mom, I have a little problem." He had jumped into the pool with his cell phone in the pocket. Guess what mom had said before he went to the party - "Leave you're cell phone here." He's jumped into a pool twice (in previous years) with the cell phone.

Thursday night my husband and son found the insurance policy for the phone and ordered a new one for the $50 charge (which my son is paying). They ordered it after 9:00pm Thursday night. The order confirmation said next day delivery - yeah right! Hold on to your thoughts - my son was rollerblading on the driveway at 8:45am (no school that day - have no idea why he was up and out that early when he didn't have to be). In he came with a package - the CELL PHONE. How the hell did we get it from Kentucky less than 12 hours after we placed the new order?

Now I know that I don't know too much about the real world, staying home and raising my children, but even my husband was flabbergasted. Thank you Verizon!

Amazed,

NeuroticMom

Beautiful....

2010-05-10T09:08:00.002-04:00

Someone passed this along yesterday with a Mother's Day message. It is profound.

2010-05-09T19:02:00.002-04:00

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

Cinco de Mayo!

2010-05-05T08:23:00.002-04:00

Mmmmm. I love any excuse for margaritas and guacamole so I looove Cinco de Mayo!
Hubs is away tonight so I'll be carting the kiddies around and won't be able to get into a margarita until later tonight. But I WILL be whipping up a batch of guacamole this afternoon! It's sooo easy to make and fresh guacamole is the best:

Fresh Guacamole
3-4 ripe avocados (peeled, seeded, mashed)
juice of 1/2 a lime
1-2 tsp. minced garlic
1 small tomato seeded and chopped
1/2 small sweet or red onion chopped
1 jalapeno seeded and chopped
chopped cilantro (I just use a little bit, like 3T.)
cumin (add to taste)
sea salt
hot pepper sauce or cayenne (use this to add heat if you don't want to handle a jalapeno)

Add the lime juice to the avocado and mash together with a fork. Fold in the rest of the ingredients and put in your fridge for an hour or so (let those flavors meld!)I love my guacamole chunky--nothing worse than runny guac.
Enjoy!
TechnoMom

Forgot Your CVS Card? No Problem!

2010-04-26T08:58:00.003-04:00

You know what's really sad? One of the things I look most forward to when travelling ... is emptying out my wallet.

I have way too many club cards. Grocery cards, gas station cards, Staples, CVS, bulk stores, sporting goods stores, Hallmark; you name it, I've got their card.
And I've found that they not only add serious bulk to my wallet, but also make it HEAVY. So when I travel, I empty it out. Chances are I won't need my Staples card while I'm laying in the sun sipping a mai tai.

So, the other day I am in CVS at the checkout counter and I realize that I never put my beloved club cards back into my wallet. No problem, they'll look it up by phone number. And the story could end there.

BUT, the employee saw me put my iPhone on the counter and said "Are you telling me you don't have the Cardstar App?" And I'm all, No, tell me about it. ( I love me a good app !)

Cardstar allows you to save every single club card in this app. You can select by store or business; type in the number from your upc code and voila! no more carrying that stinky little card around. It even accepts fitness club, library cards & my Marriott rewards card! I've read the reviews and people are raving about this app.
And the best part? It's FREE!!

I spent 30 minutes before bed last night typing all my cards into the Cardstar app on my iPhone. The weight has been lifted!

I can't wait to hit the grocery stores today. I think being current with technology makes me feel just a little bit younger :)

God, I love technology.
TechnoMom

Ho Hum.

2010-04-26T08:55:00.002-04:00

The weather is dreary and I need to finish cleaning out my closet. I'm doing it right this time. I took everything out, made piles everywhere in my room and did the same with my husband's clothes. Every shelf was cleaned and every piece of clothing was sorted! Now for all of the crap I had on the floor and shelves, things I never know what to do with. Help!!

BTW - I am a hanger snob - no wire hangers in this house!

This is what I had!

This is what I'm shooting for!

All I wanna do is climb back into bed with my Kindle.

Enjoy your day,

NeuroticMom

Play Ball! Or Not!

2010-04-21T20:08:00.000-04:00

High school sports - gotta love'um.

My son had a high school baseball game today. My husband went to the game, I was on homework duty with two of the kids.

Well, these boys are becoming foul-tempered men. One kid said something, another didn't like the way he said it, one throws a glove at the other and a face-to-face confrontation occurs - among friends on the same team. Four kids get benched, lots of errors are made throughout the game, and so on. Glad I didn't waste my time.

(BTW - my kid wasn't involved, but he did have an error.)

Here's to tomorrow's game,

NeuroticMom

Unacceptable, Unsafe, Unthinkable, Unbelievable!

2010-04-20T14:56:00.002-04:00

Well, I have a story we can all learn from. It's a real eye-opener and something we probably wouldn't talk to our children about.

My fifteen year old cousin - that's right, my uncle is only twelve years older than me - was walking in broad daylight Saturday afternoon. He was by himself going from point A to point B and he stopped to make a phone call in front of a church. As he was standing there, a van pulled up, several men jumped out, said they were the police and told him he had to get in the van. They were not in uniform and did not show their identification. He said "no" and started backing away, they persisted, and he took off running. When they caught him, they threw him to the ground - he started swinging, they held a gun to his head and handcuffed him. He started screaming "help me".

Finally a uniformed policeman approached, after he was on the ground, handcuffed with a gun to his head. What the hell is going on?! One of the several undercover detectives realized this poor kid thinks he's being kidnapped. "Hello - why wouldn't he think that, you haven't shown him any ID?"

My aunt and uncle got a phone call that their fifteen year old son is at the precinct and being held for assaulting a police officer. Imagine that phone call.

Fastforward - the police apologized for the way they handled the situation. There had been some recent vandalism in the area and they thought he looked suspicious. Realizing that they did not properly identify themselves, they let him go.

What would you do? I would do something. He was traumatized. Will he get over having a gun held to his head?- HE'S FIFTEEN, MAKING A PHONE CALL IN THE MIDDLE OF THE DAY IN A VERY NICE AREA! What if that gun went off when he started swinging, thinking he was fighting for his life? It could happen to anyone.

We told our children, who do walk around town sometimes, - stay with someone and you do not have to go with anyone that says they're the police and haven't shown you ID.

Thankful and horrified,
NeuroticMom

Sick Again

2010-04-17T22:19:00.000-04:00

My little guy has strep, again. It's the second time in one month. He's miserable, in bed, quarantined away from everyone until tomorrow. Lysoled door knobs, light switches, etc. I'm going to eat, make some chocolate chip cookies and watch the "Blind Side" with him. The good news is - he usually feels perfect after one day of antibiotics.

To a better day tomorrow,

NeuroticMom

BLAH!

2010-04-16T08:23:00.000-04:00

Have you ever been at one of your kids sports games and you're enjoying yourself, cheering for everyone and "BAM", Debbie Downer sits down right next to you? I can't quite figure her out - there's one on every team, you can't get away from it.

Well yesterday it happened again. I'm sitting with a lovely mom and we're enjoying the fresh air, cheering everyone on and then it was over. Debbie Downer sat down, immediately started in on all of the little things: kids are in the wrong positions, the coaches need to do this or that, etc. I'm sorry but even if you think it, don't say it. I find myself smiling, agreeing and praying that she just shuts up. What do you do?!

NeuroticMom

MASTERS 2010

2010-04-12T21:48:00.000-04:00

The best man won!

No one was rooting for Phil Mickelson more than my family - well maybe millions of other fans! What a great Masters. I love it!

Go Phil,

NeuroticMom

Stolen.

2010-04-11T22:05:00.000-04:00

Literally. Stolen.

My dog's beds. From the local laundromat.

2 old, stinky dog beds.

I thought laundromat motto's were: wash, dry, fold. Make that wash, dry, stole!

I wonder what kind of person actually steals from a laundromat and what makes them choose the worn out dog beds over a dryer full of nice clean clothes?
Weird.

Puzzled in the 'burbs,
TechnoMom

Venting

2010-04-10T12:56:00.000-04:00

Youth Sports.

It is so much fun to watch our children compete. It is hard to watch them struggle with a loss.

Had I known my 10yo was going to only play a total of 4 minutes in his State Cup soccer game today I would have asked the coach to take him. I missed my older sons lacrosse game for 4 minutes.

Had I known getting him to all the practices on time & prepared was going to lead to 4 minutes-- I might have said screw it.

Had I really listened to my son--I might have realized that his heart belongs to hockey and that he plays soccer to please us--I might not feel so resentful towards those 4 minutes (and towards myself).

Had my 10yo not had tears running down his face as he got to the car and spent the whole way home wiping away the tears wondering why he only played those freaking 4 minutes, and is questioning his own worthiness as a person and as a soccer player-- I might not feel like this:

I feel better now (too bad my 10yo feels like shit),

TechnoMom

p.s. Thank God he's only 10, after 30 minutes on the xbox he should be fine.

Sneezing, Itchy Eyes, Puffing Up...

2010-04-09T09:14:00.000-04:00

That's right - it's allergy time.

My youngest is really suffering. He gets hit hard this time of year. My goal this year is to keep him off of Asmanex. It works great, but it's a steroid that I'd prefer he not take. So we started allergy meds earlier than usual and he was doing pretty well until Wednesday. He was at school for 10 minutes, maybe, and I got a call to bring the eye drops. The poor little guy was red and swollen with blood-shot eyes. We've prevented the breathing issues, but we can't prevent the eyes and stuffy nose with his allergy meds. Oh well - he'll suffer through it for a few more weeks. I keep Benadryl in my pocketbook and hope we don't need to use it.

BTW - my same son suffers from being struck with poison ivy, oak or whatever everytime he goes in the woods - which is a shame because he loves nature and animals. We were away for Easter and did an Easter egg hunt outside. By Monday morning he had a rash on his arms and some spots on his legs. I've tried many things over the years because he usually has to go on prednisone when it spreads to his face, which it always does. Well, this time I used Zanfel! It's a wonder cream. Rub it on the area that is looking like poison something and voila (not sure how to make the little mark over the a). It was gone after a shower and good night sleep.

NeuroticMom

Their Heeerrreee! @#$%^&*):

2010-03-30T08:10:00.005-04:00

Lice.

My sister called from NY and these persistent little creatures have found a home in her house. She has four children, 2 boys and 2 girls with long, curly hair. Yikes.

If you make it through parenthood without encountering these tiny creatures, consider yourself lucky. One of my kids had it five years ago and I almost had a nervous breakdown. Literally! - I had to go on anti-anxiety meds for 10 days.

I feel my sister's pain right now. I'm itchy just thinking about it.

If you follow a list of guidelines and are diligent, hopefully you will do the first treatment and never see another nit. But you must vacuum until you wear the vacuum out, bag any stuffed animals and comforters (I did for three months - way over the top), check everyone daily for weeks and change sheets daily for anyone who was infested. It's awful, but my husband kept telling me, "no one is going to die from this." True, but it may drive you insane!

If you need help, here's one of a thousand websites: http://www.headlice.org/.

Good luck - hopin' you never have to fight the "Lice Fight"!
NeuroticMom

Under the Weather

2010-03-25T07:29:00.001-04:00

Isn't it the worst when the weather is beautiful and you're not feeling well? We've all had some sort of virus (sore throat, which turns into a nasty cold, a day or two of chest tightness and a cough). Now that we're getting over that, the allergies have set in.

It is wonderful to see the trees starting to bloom at least.

Hope you're feeling well wherever you are,
NeuroticMom

Houston - We Have a Problem!!!!!

2010-03-21T12:02:00.001-04:00

Scary incident yesterday. I was home with my youngest and it was a beautiful, warm day. The garage was open because I just got in from running errands. I am in the middle of changing clothes over for the kids and he's doing some homework before he can go out and play. I'm upstairs and he's downstairs. The doorbell rang and thank goodness I had just looked out the window. It was a man going around the neighborhood for something. I never open the door to anyone unless they are expected or my husband is home (he wasn't). My children always run for the door because it's their friends 99% of the time. We live in a small development (22 houses and secluded). You don't worry about the kids running around the development. Neighborhood friends come in and out in all of our houses.

Anyway, as soon as the bell rang I ran for the stairs and yelled for him not to open the door - it was someone we don't know. He didn't and ran up the stairs, a little scared since I had adamently told him not to open the door. "Why, what's going on?" "It's a stranger, and we don't open the door to strangers." He watched the man from the upstairs window and started in on me. "He looks nice, just open the door if he comes back." "No, he's a stranger." "What's the big deal?" Are you kidding me??????????

I spent the next few minutes explaining that dangerous people usually look nice and that's how they gain your trust. After having a lengthy conversation he still said we should answer the door. We've gone over this stuff so many times, I am flabergasted that he's still questioning it. He agreed that if he was home alone or with his brothers, they wouldn't open the door, but he doesn't quite comprehend why I wouldn't open it on a beautiful day since I'm the parent. I'll keep trying to explain it without making him paranoid. Boy did I learn a lesson.

NeuroticMom

Creatures of Habit

2010-03-18T21:09:00.000-04:00

I've had each of my kids at the doctor this week. They have all had sore throats (one strep, the other two have colds). What I've realized is my kids cannot handle being away from home without me or my husband for more than two days. I think they are such creatures of habit and any deviation throws them for a loop. When my husband and I go away, they are always left with family and close friends that treat them like family, but I guess it's still not home. My husband's worried they won't be able to go away to college. Well, we used to worry that they would be wearing diapers or sucking on pacifiers until they went to kindergarten and all the worrying was for nothing. I'll have to remain hopeful:)

NeuroticMom

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2010-03-17T08:08:00.000-04:00

Does your family celebrate St. Patrick's Day?

Growing up (100% Polish) we always celebrated. We always wore green. And we always had corned beef and cabbage for dinner. As a child I hated this dinner. My brothers and I would protest: "but we're Polish!" To no avail. My mom is a sucker for a holiday.
Now, I married a mostly Irish guy and I now love me some corned beef and cabbage. Yum-my! I just don't make it. I would be the only one in my house that would actually eat it. So tonight I'm grilling a london broil, making a big GREEN salad and for dessert I'm serving the cutest most delicious (from a local gourmet grocer ;) leprechaun cupcakes.

top o'the mornin to ya,
technomom

Monday Morning Kickoff... Sort Of

2010-03-08T08:06:00.000-05:00

My sentiments this morning...

It Can Only Get Better,
TechnoMom

Let the Sun Shine In

2010-03-05T12:56:00.000-05:00

It's Friday, the sun is shining and the snow is melting! What else could we ask for? Hopefully the dark and dreary days of winter are behind us. I'm looking forward to a nice weekend and having a lot of family time. My son's high school is playing for the District Championship in basketball at Villanova. Expecting a good game and plenty of fans to cheer them on! The kids won't sit with us, but we'll spend a Saturday night together, sort of.

Have a great weekend,
NeuroticMom

A Few Good Reads

2010-03-01T07:27:00.002-05:00

I finished two books this week. It's rare for me to read this much, but I guess the weather had something to do with it. I read The Help and The Virgin Queen's Daughter. Totally different books but very entertaining.

Let me know what you think.

Next on my list - Picking Cotton and The Lost Symbol.

NeuroticMom

Tired of the Snow & Cancellations

2010-02-25T06:32:00.000-05:00

It's snowing again. Shocker! It's 6:30am and I'm a little surprised that school is not cancelled. I'm really torn as to what to do about my kids. I would love to tell them not to get up - really worried about this afternoon and the buses on the road. One of my kids goes to school 20 minutes away. I'm praying they all get home safely. I'll be second guessing the decision to send them until I see their handsome faces walk through the door.

Scary thought - heard we are getting a monster storm around March 7-8 (possibly 40 inches). Pray to the weathers-that-be that this is just a nasty rumor. Even my children are tired of snow.

Stay safe,
NeuroticMom

A Game of Millimeters

2010-02-22T13:39:00.000-05:00

We watched the USA vs. Canada hockey game last night. It was so much fun. The kids still love the movie "Miracle" and there are a lot of familiar names on this USA team. What will they achieve? How will their Olympic dream end? It will be exciting to watch. I just have to try to be awake for the end of the next game.

Hoping for another miracle,

NeuroticMom

Time to Do, or Not Do

2010-02-17T14:07:00.002-05:00

That's right, it's Lent! I've got a big ashen cross on my forehead to prove it.

I've learned alot from my kids attending Catholic school (I'm a public school girl-go pubs!), but one of my favorite things is how they approach Lent. Yes, you should give something up. Sacrifice & all that. I didn't need Catholic school to learn that. (You can thank my stricter than the pope parents for that one.)
The best thing I learned is that in addition to, or possibly in-lieu of, giving something up you can actually DO something. Probably things you haven't already been doing. And probably should be something good for yourself or others. As for me? Well, I'm not sharing. I will be both doing and not doing, something. I guess it's just between me and God.

It's funny how people like to share what they're giving up. Maybe they want sympathy for their sacrifice? I don't know about that, but I do know that twitter is all abuzz with people posting what their Lenten plans are (or are not ;) Here's a sampling:

Yes, some people are giving up lent for lent.
Good luck with that,
TechnoMom

Fat Tuesday- Enjoy!

2010-02-16T16:22:00.001-05:00

For some reason my kids love Fat Tuesday. They think it's an excuse to eat whatever junk they want for one night. (Because apparently, 6 days off from school eating through bags of Dorito's and boxes of Girl Scout cookies just doesn't count). They're thinking a fast food smorgasbord. I'm thinking, ew. Whatever. I'll just hit them with some Catholic guilt throughout Lent. Let the good times roll!

Feeling Guilty

2010-02-16T12:31:00.000-05:00

I took the day yesterday to go out to lunch , a movie and coffee. Hours and hours of self-indulgence on a day that my kids were at home. I had been home with them since Tuesday evening (because of the snow) and a friend of mine is a teacher, so she can't take the time during the week. The problem - I felt guilty. I can't tell you how many parents I saw taking their kids to see a movie. I'm having a hard time right now, during the dead of winter, because my life is too wrapped up in my kids. I'm not a crazy mom (I don't think). I kiss and hug my children every time they leave the house, kiss them goodnight and say "I love you" several times a day and they don't seem to mind.

Here's the question: What should I do with my life (in terms of a part-time job)? The problem is: being a parent is getting harder as they get older. I naively thought it would get easier. It's a lot more fun though!

Just venting,
NeuroticMom

Let the Sun Shine In

2010-02-11T08:47:00.002-05:00

The sun is shining today and it's hard to believe that we are waking up from an incrediable blizzard. It is beautiful outside! Today the children can play and enjoy themselves - they've been coped up and are ready! I'm shocked that we didn't lose our electricity. I hope you didn't either. Our backyard looks similar to this and now we're hoping that we don't lose a few trees. If we do we're praying they don't hit the house.

NeuroticMom

Up, Up & Away!

2010-02-08T08:21:00.000-05:00

While we were all snuggled in our warm beds, tired after a late night of munchies, football and commercials, NASA successfully launched another shuttle into space.

Space Shuttle Endeavor lifted off at 4:14am this morning (et).

It's easy to take our successful space program for granted.
Share this with your kids or friends. Visit nasa.gov for a daily image...they are all spectacular!

Go NASA!
TechnoMom

Extraordinary Measures

2010-02-01T19:54:00.000-05:00

I went to a movie this weekend, "Extraordinary Measures". I thought it was an inspirational tear-jerker. If you get a chance, check it out. The kids won't like it, but if you're a parent, WOW!

NeuroticMom

Wet Weather Necessity

2010-01-25T12:56:00.001-05:00

It is pouring rain here in SE Pennsylvania. Depsite the fact that today would be a great day to not go anywhere and just stay inside, life does go on. The dog must be walked, and I must make my daily stop at the grocery store for more milk & necessities.
I will not leave the house without these:

super-cute rain boots

I bought my first pair of "wellies" four years ago. I absolutely hate when the hem of my pants gets wet in the rain. And that awful feeling when you step in a puddle with sneakers on? Forget about it!

My first pair came straight from England, a pair of Funky Wellingtons. They were bright pink and I absolutely L O V E D them. Until the dog ate them. Now I own a pair of Kate Spade Riley's in bright green (purchased @zappos.com).

Wellies were not so easy to find 4 years ago (I hopped on that trend at the right time!) Now they are available everywhere. Amazon.com, zappos.com, Target. You name it.

So if you can't stand going out in rainy weather and having damp, sloshy feet; buy a pair of wellies! You'll stay dry and be fashionably in style at the same time :)

Stomping in puddles,

TechnoMom

Mom's Monday Morning Kickoff!

2010-01-25T07:41:00.001-05:00

Slapping Your Troubles Away
This cracks me up every time. I love the woman in the last 10 seconds... chop, chop, chop, chop!
Fettucini. Linguine. Martini. Bikini.
Slap your troubles away with the slap chop :) Happy Monday!

The Givers

2010-01-21T20:56:00.000-05:00

My husband and I were talking about the crisis in Haiti. We were discussing a CNN report about the sheer amount of money our country has donated to the relief effort. The U.S. has committed $150 million dollars to the cause. Let alone all the troops, aid workers and equipment.

And it all served to remind me of just what a great country we live in.

And I am so happy that our children are being raised in a country that, despite our own economic turmoil, jumps in to help other nations. We don't wait to see what the rest of the world is doing. We are a nation that gives.

From texting, to Twitter, to telethons, to school children with hot cocoa stands (it is winter here after all), to our own firefighters with their jaws of life; we Give.
I love that my children have etched into their little brains and consciousness that when there is a crisis we respond. You don't have to be rich to give. You just have to do your little part.

I was reading this article about the orchestration of the relief effort. It also links to an amazing spreadsheet of donations by countries, individuals, and companies. Click on the link. You may be surprised by the number of corporations and organizations putting up big numbers. (Way to go Giselle Bundchen & Sandra Bullock!)
Keep on Giving.
TechnoMom

Any Book Suggestions?

2010-01-18T11:38:00.003-05:00

I just finished The Lovely Bones - really enjoyed it.

I'm on a mission now to read a book before I see the movie.
Just downloaded Dear John.

Looking for suggestions,

NeuroticMom

Destruction

2010-01-14T09:20:00.008-05:00

Haiti.

Text "HAITI" TO "90999" to donate $10 the Red Cross.

It's easy.

It's only ten dollars.

Do it now.

Cheating's Cheating!

2010-01-13T08:50:00.011-05:00

We are all trying to do the best we can while raising our children - instill good values and integrity in our offspring, helping them build character, striving to have them do their best at everything they do while being compassionate and sensitive towards others and realizing you may not be given second chances. It's exhausting work and emotional. I always tell my kids that every rule and punishment is for their own good - so that they will be even better parents than us. With that said - my kids love baseball. They love the players and the game. We've discussed a player enhancing their abilities and they are all on board that steriod use is wrong. It's cheating - plain and simple. This week's scandal centering around Mark McGwire brings back into question - should players who have been caught using enhancement performance drugs be allowed to be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame (this applies to all other sports)? NO. Athletes listen up - you allowed yourself to do something that put you at an advantage. It was not a fair playing field - you knew you weren't the best or you were so wrapped up in trying to be the best. It should be instant disqualification. You blew it!

My son came home from high school the other day and told us a student was expelled for cheating. No second chances. The student stole a test, tried to sell it to other students, got caught and was gone that day. Kids make mistakes but know when they screw up. It's a shame because the course of that kid's life is different now. Hopefully it will be a life changing and building lesson.

Why do professional athletes get treated differently? We're paying their salaries (basically). I'll take a small guy like Jimmy Rollins any day. He visits sick kids, has a sense of humor and gets out there every game and hussles. He may not have had a great season this year but the fans still love him cause he's Jimmy. How about Derek Jeter? Mr. Dependable! My kids are not big and it does put them at a disadvantage sometimes. My husband's advice to them from day one - you don't have to be the biggest or best - you have to be the most coachable, the kid with the best attitude and strive to be the most consistent.

And when it's not fun anymore, move on (that's me talking).

NeuroticMom

A Hero

2010-01-11T17:39:00.005-05:00

I watched the documentary, “Brace for Impact” last night. The show had interviews of Captain Sully and his first mate, passengers, and employees of the Water Authority, LaGuardia Airport and more. The plane crashed into the Hudson River on January 15th, 2009. All of the passengers survived! You would have to have been living in a bubble if you haven’t heard about what Captain Sully accomplished. The advertisements for the show asked the question: Is it the man that makes the moment or the moment that makes the man? It’s the man that made the moment! I hope every survivor of that crash walked away knowing that they were given a second chance thanks to the calm, professional man in the cockpit. I got teary eyed a few times during the show, especially when Captain Sully’s calm voice said, “we’ll be in the Hudson”. WOW!

I grew up on Long Island. Two of the most travelled airports in the world are within 20 miles of my childhood home. Seeing planes fly overhead at a low altitude is an everyday occurrence. I didn’t appreciate it until my children were in my parent’s backyard playing years ago and a plane flew over the house. They ducted and were scared to death at first. Now they are in awe when we go for a visit, between the planes and squirrels – but that’s for a different post .
There’s no open space –congestion and water surround NY’s five boroughs. I guess flying is safer than I tend to think – I’m a reluctant flier, at best. With the amount of planes coming and going over that area, it’s amazing that…………never mind, let’s all knock on some wood.

How did Sully do it? How many other pilots would have gone down in the Hudson to save the lives of countless people on the ground? In those critical moments, even if a pilot wanted to make the right decision, would they have been able to do it?

Thank you Captain Sully,
NeuroticMom

Memories!

2010-01-06T08:50:00.001-05:00

I just thought of every stage of my life when I loved each of these songs!

Tip of the Day

2010-01-05T21:03:00.001-05:00

I hit the GAP today for a return. I love going to a store and discovering that there's a big sale going on. Many things were 40% off. A few items were 70% off! Having a GAP card is nice - the savings can be substantial - cardholders get 10% off of everything the first Tuesday of the month. Today it was the sale price plus the 10%. Just thought I'd pass the info along.

NeuroticMom

The Sky's the Limit

2010-01-03T23:37:00.000-05:00

I am determined to save money this year. So, I am going to play a game with myself to see what I can do. If I visually see what I'm saving and know that you will too - it will work, it will work, it will work. This is my New Year's resolution. Save. Save. Save. Coupons are my friend. Going to the grocery store and having my card today saved $8.10.

We'll see what happens,

NeuroticMom

A New Year Resolution

2009-12-30T23:18:00.002-05:00

Stumbled across a new blog today, lifeasmom.com. Just when I was wondering how I would start this new year fresh and with a mission, there it was before me: the eat from the pantry challenge.

Now my friends and I have had this conversation before. Pantries overflowing with food, but nothing to eat! Every shelf in my pantry is packed with food. Yet I still go to the grocery store almost on a daily basis. It disgusts even me. And please, do not get my husband started on our grocery bill!

So the challenge involved eating strictly from whatever is in your pantry, fridge & freezer for the month of January. There are 3 simple rules:

Reduce your monthly grocery bill (Hubs will love this one!)
Take stock (empty out everything, throw out what you absolutely won't use and make a list of what you have)
Use what you have

I'm just paraphrasing, be sure to visit the link above to get all the details.

All of this sounds good. I am looking forward to spending less, I have no idea what is hiding in our basement freezer so this will force me to itemize, and there has been a box of orzo in my pantry all summer I've been dying to do something with. Maybe I'll finally use it.

I'm not sure how this will end, except for my children whining that there's nothing to eat thanking me for broadening their palates. (At the very least I'll clean out my pantry & freezer ;)

Besides, what else could I use as my resolution? Lose weight? Be more organized? Be a kinder person? Doesn't everybody do that?

And what about you? Join me in my misery. Any other challenges you'd like to throw my way?

2010, Bring. It. On.

TechnoMom

The Hills Are Alive...

2009-12-27T19:45:00.001-05:00

A Christmastime favorite of mine... The Sound of Music.
Watching it right now. A couple of my boys are in the room with me, they groaned when it came on. And now they're pretending to be busy with their ipods. But secretly I think they are enjoying this classic ;)

And my dog? He is all about that whistle Captain vonTrapp is using. Ahhh. Christmas memories.
(And it doesn't hurt that the Captain is a hotty:)

So Long, Farewell,
TechnoMom

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2009-12-25T11:33:00.001-05:00

I went to bed last night with anticipation and sorrow.

My ten year old, soon to be eleven year old, was so excited (as were my older boys waiting for some of the gifts they knew they were getting)! My little one still believes, even though he questions it all of the time. He tracked where Santa was on the internet after we got home from mass and the local light show. By 10:30pm everyone was tucked in - Santa was is Canada and heading our way. As I put him to bed and realized how perfect life was at that moment, it dawned on me that next year will be different. He won't believe. But I have hope - I see in my older boys that they were just as excited this year as they have been in years passed.

It's just another milestone, but I'm savoring this year!

Have a Merry Christmas!

NeuroticMom

Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow

2009-12-18T15:22:00.000-05:00

Winter storm alert! Local weather-people are predicting 6-12 inches in our general area (SE Pennsylvania). Bring. It. On. I was planning on spending my weekend baking, wrapping and driving to numerous sporting events. If we do get all that snow I'll have a lot more time for the baking and the wrapping. I'm imagining a blanket of white, whilst I'm in my cozy kitchen, wearing an oh so cute apron, listening to Christmas music, merrily rolling out sugar cookie dough.

I really hope they're right this time,
TechnoMom

Chill - You'll Get It All Done!

2009-12-17T17:25:00.001-05:00

Feeling good. Christmas is almost here and all of the shopping is done, except my parents, but they're easy. My kids are set and will be very excited! I'm now so relaxed that I took an hour while my children were doing homework and did a puzzleball. It was great to sit in the middle of the day and do nothing that required anything but counting. If someone had a question - it wasn't "one second honey, let me finish what I'm doing." Cute gift idea.

NeuroticMom

Panicking Yet?

2009-12-15T08:17:00.001-05:00

First things first, I had to google how to spell 'panicking.' I had it right (you better believe it), but isn't it just one of those crazy words that just looks more wrong the longer you stare at it?

Moving on.

Why would you be panicking? Well...

Only 10 Shopping Days Left!

(including today. Which you should, because for every soul out there today, getting it done, there will be someone out there on Christmas Eve trying to get through the mall or thoughtfully shopping at the local CVS for that one last thing).

As for me? Mostly done. Waiting for the big brown truck to deliver the last of them. Also, my husband's uncles have been adding themselves to the guest list. Which means another run to Macy's for another sweater. Oh, and teenage son has decided he needs more jeans and some "cool" polos (as opposed to the 'dork' polos that I buy). Which means a stop in the most evil store of all... Hollister Co. Seriously, I'll be popping some motrine in the parking lot before I head in there.

How about you?

Shopping used to make me happy,
TechnoMom

Throw Your Arms Around the World

2009-12-14T08:15:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday Morning! Here's the video to one of my all-time favorite Christmas songs. Gotta love all that 1984 hair ;) Also, gotta love a song that means as much today as it did over two decades ago. Feed the world.

Put a Sock In It

2009-12-09T20:42:00.002-05:00

Some things I've done today: laundry, dishes, walked the dog, trimmed the tree (some more), grocery shopped and... folded my lone sock basket. The basket that sits in the corner of my closet, growing every day. Judging me, mocking me. Daring me to try and make a match. So after a few months of the kids complaining of a lack of socks to wear I broke down and started to sort.

And you know how many pairs I was able to come up with? How many socks found their sole mate?

47 Pairs of Socks.
47.
That means there were over 94 solo socks waiting to be matched up. AND there are still quite a few loners sitting in the bottom of the basket.
I don't know what's worse, hanging onto so many single socks hoping to match them up, or the fact that I waited so long to do it that I was able to come up with 47 pairs.

Procrastination will get you nowhere.

But it will get you alot of matched socks.
TechnoMom

Mom's Monday Morning Kickoff!

2009-12-07T09:12:00.001-05:00

It's Monday morning... time to post something to get you going this week. And what did I find?
What did I spend hours online last night watching and laughing at???

JibJab.com Go there. Create an e-card or video. (Yearly membership only $12!)
Send it to your friends and family. It will make their week. And yours :)

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

The Eye of the Tiger

2009-12-06T19:12:00.000-05:00

The new issue of Golf Digest has been hiding in the many layers of our inbox. Pulled this out and, low and behold, the cover:

10 Tips Obama Can Take From Tiger.

Oh Tiger. The secret service is not going to let you give any tips to the President.

(And no, morons, that is not a real picture. It was photoshopped by the editors at GolfDigest l-o-n-g before the whole Tiger fiasco.)

Also? In light of recent transgressions, my husband isn't allowed to leave for the golf course without me yelling, Where ya goin' tiger? I find it amusing. Every time. He does not.

What else will Tiger have to deal with (besides his wife's wrath and the media fall out)?

He will definitely have a harder time getting into the White House than the Salahi's, but as a bonus they have added Tiger to their Christmas card list. They are eternally grateful to him for making their little news story go away.

An Imperfect Girl in an Imperfect World,

TechnoMom

Soooo Disappointed!!!!!!

2009-12-04T09:08:00.000-05:00

I sat down with my family last night to watch our favorite show, "Survivor". It's one of the few times throughout the week that we all sit in the familyroom, spread out on the couch and relax. At 8:00pm we are watching the opening and listening to the song (we all love it). LaLaLaLaLaaaaaaaaaaaa. Peaceful, joyful bliss. The first group of commercials comes on and we are watching a Walmart Christmas montage - blips of different children hugging a parent on Christmas morning, next -blips of parents picking Christmas presents out for their children. The air is being sucked out of the room - I know it's coming and I'm anxiously waiting for it. My 10 year old sits up like a panicked baby chick, looking frantically around at everyone on the couch, his eyes darting from one person to another. "I guess Santa's not real," he states waiting for our reaction. Big brothers for once in their lives have nothing to say - their always looking for a dig but know if they say a word they have my wrath to deal with and it's so not worth it. "You just have to believe" I repeated several times because he kept saying "He's not real, right?".

Are you freaking kidding me. A company like Walmart is going to put this commercial on at 8:02pm. I worked in advertising eons ago. What the hell are you doing? You're target audience may be a little older, you may not think "Survivor's" a family show - I don't give a shit - you don't put something on with even the remote possibility that a younger child may be watching on a regular television station that questions Santa's existence.

I was hoping for one more year. One more year of him having the innocence of somewhat believing. I never told the other boys. My response was and still is, "You have to believe". I'm so disappointed in Walmart. Does my youngest truly, truly believe - NO - but he doesn't have to have reminders thrown in his face.

What do you think?
NeuroticMom

Good Deeds

2009-12-03T18:16:00.000-05:00

This past weekend my family cooked breakfast at a Ronald McDonald House in our area. I prepared my children (some of the families we would be cooking for have children that are very sick and possibly dying). We prepared a menu - bacon, pancakes, cinnamon buns, bagels, muffins, cereal, juice, and strawberries and dip. Everyone complained that they had to get up early, but we did so anyway.

What a morning. They had a ball. They wore aprons and did a fantastic job. They had so much fun - we are planning another trip to the House in January. My youngest son methodically set the buffet table, my middle son whipped up great cinnamon buns and did a terrific job finding what we needed to cook and my oldest made the best pancakes!

We've started a new tradition. The Sunday of Thanksgiving weekend is a must and a few other times throughout the year. We know now that bacon goes quickly, fresh fruit gets devoured and french toast will be fun to make next time.

I climbed into bed Sunday night and felt like a stellar mom.

Thankful,

NeuroticMom

Venting!

2009-12-02T16:52:00.001-05:00

I know the world is waiting to see what happens with Tiger, but I have to say - I'm tired of it all! I was decorating my banister this morning, had on my Christmas radio station and heard the "supposed" voice mail he left for one of the "maybe" mistresses (sp?) three times in twenty minutes. Who cares - especially on a Christmas radio station. Let the guy fix his problems (and if it's true, he's got big problems) without the world knowing. His wife and children deserve better than this, don't you think?

NeuroticMom

Tiger Woods Update

2009-11-27T16:53:00.000-05:00

Tiger Woods publicist has issued a statement that Tiger was released from the hospital with minor facial lacerations. Glad to hear he's ok. But more importantly? Glad to know I'm not the only one that can't back down a driveway in the dark.

World class athletes are people too,
TechnoMom

Reality Sinks In

2009-11-27T16:13:00.000-05:00

Heard about Tiger Woods car accident 20 minutes ago on Twitter. The words,  “serious injuries” were used. Made me feel scared. Because? Tiger Woods runs like a perfect machine. He’s athletic, in shape, well-groomed, well-spoken, family guy... seems like he has his shit together and yeah, he’s on a pedestal in my house. This accident makes him seem so normal. And I don’t like it. Heal your wounds Tiger Woods and get back to Mt. Olympus. The other gods are waiting.

(Footnote: read on cnn.com that he suffered facial lacerations and was released... still looking for a complete story with ALL the facts.)

Thinking good thoughts,

TechnoMom

Putting It All in Perspective

2009-11-26T11:51:00.001-05:00

Things to Be Thankful For....

Be thankful for the clothes that fit a little too snug,

because it means you have enough to eat.

Be thankful for the mess you have to clean up after a party,

because it means you have been surrounded by friends.

Be thankful for the taxes you pay,

because it means you're employed.

Be thankful that your lawn needs mowing and your windows need cleaning and your gutters need fixing, because it means you have a home.

Be thankful for your huge heating bill,

because it means you are warm.

Be thankful for the piles of laundry and ironing,

because it means you have clothes to wear, and your loved ones are nearby.

Be thankful for the space you find at the far end of the parking lot,

because it means you can walk.

Be thankful for the lady who sings off-key behind you in church,

because it means you can hear.

Be thankful for the alarm that goes off in the early morning hours,

because it means you're alive.

Be thankful for the weariness and aching muscles at the end of the day,

because it means you have been productive.

This Thanksgiving, give thanks for all you have.

Happy Thanksgiving!

The Greener the Better

2009-11-25T06:58:00.003-05:00

My husband picked up our new car yesterday – a Ford Fusion Hybrid. "Hybrid". It makes us feel good just to say that word. I drive around a monster of an SUV and I always think that it’s not practical because of gas prices and global warming. But we love it!! Now – I feel environmentally conscious! The features are unbelievable. It wasn’t outrageously priced, but the computer is great and the car has everything that you need. There’s even a gadget that lets you know how “green” you are depending on your driving – a tree grows leaves the “greener” you drive and leaves fall off when you’re not doing so well. My husband was a trooper – his mid-life crisis was buying an old beat-up jeep. All of my boys loved driving the jeep in the summer, not so much in the winter. He sold the car yesterday, but it went to a good home. It’s a little easier that way. What's really horrifying to think about: this will be the car my children learn to drive on :(

Thanksgiving’s almost here, I need to get ready!

Neurotic Mom

Mom's Monday Morning Kickoff!

2009-11-23T08:53:00.002-05:00

"These streets will make you feel brand new/ Bright lights will inspire you/ Let's hear it for New York"
Love this song. Alicia Keys & Jay Z rocking the house at the AMA's. Hope it starts your day happy!

TLC's the Best!

2009-11-20T20:51:00.000-05:00

It's the weekend!!

I'm about to sit down and watch "Say Yes to the Dress". Have you seen it yet? Hours of entertainment! My kids enjoy it too. We laugh and are happy that we're not related to or friends with the people that are on the show. I have to admit, we love TLC. Another favorite of ours is "Cake Boss". We may be a little dorky but it's fun. And now, "Flowers Uncut". Life is good!

Reebok EasyTone Shoe

2009-11-18T19:41:00.002-05:00

I went shopping yesterday and treated myself to two new pairs of sneakers. I haven't bought new sneakers in 3 or 4 years. I think I had "sucker" written across my face. But I want to tell you about one pair that I really like: the Reebok EasyTone shoe. It's supposed to increase muscle activation right where I need some help (butt, back of thighs and calves). I'm actually excited to say that these sneakers are comfortable. And anything that can stimulate muscle action without me putting any effort into it is worth a try!!

NeuroticMom

Movie Time!!!!

2009-11-17T13:38:00.000-05:00

Counting down the days to see two movies. "The Blind Side" and "New Moon" come out on Friday and I"m hoping to see both this weekend. My boys are excited about "The Blind Side", not so much "New Moon" (they think it's a chick flick).
Check out each movie!

Enjoy,
NeuroticMom & TechnoMom

Mom's Monday Morning Kickoff!

2009-11-16T08:32:00.002-05:00

The world is just awesome. Have a great week!

(Boom de addah- boom de addah )

Pet Peeve of Mine

2009-11-13T17:34:00.001-05:00

We all have our pet peeves. Although, I think I speak for everyone when I say, "people who use the Express Line at the grocery store with more than the allotted items are obnoxious!"

I was in a hurry the other day and needed one thing. One thing! When I got to the Express Line I heard the screeching sound of tires in my head. What was going on? There was a woman bagging her groceries and she had a full cart already. I bit my tongue. I couldn’t go anywhere else (all of the other lines were busy). Maybe it was a circumstance where the Express cashier saw that everyone else was busy and this poor woman was waiting, she didn't have any customers of her own, and she told her to come over to Express. I didn’t want to say something just in case it wasn’t the customer’s fault. After waiting five minutes while they finished bagging, my blood pressure was soaring. The woman slowly pulled out her purse to pay - $151 and change. “Let’s go - hurry up” is screaming in my head. What did she do – pay with a check. I almost fell over. To top it all off, she saw the long line now and said, “I didn’t realize this was Express!” I was looking for the camera. It had to be a joke!

Don’t you know when you’re in the Express Line?

Neurotic Mom