Miscellaneous

Most people are making resolutions...... me, nope -- not really making any resolutions.

I'm not sure if I'll be up until midnight..... I think I'm passed the part of this pregnancy that compels me to get to bed at 7:30, but...... midnight -- well, that might be a bit much for me this year -- last year we had a newborn..... the year before it was a teething 6 month old and this year..... well, this year I'm 18ish weeks pregnant.

It used to be that the focus of New Years Eve was when, where and with whom I'd be drinking my face off. Some years the answer was Ireland, Vail, the Bahamas, Martha's Vineyard, Boston, New York........

This year? Well, this year my energy is being spent on how to convince a two-year old that Christmas is over.... Santa won't be coming again 'til next year and we can stop watching The Polar Express.

My how times change.....

Christmas..... the aftermath

We've now done Christmas 3 times..... my family on Saturday, Big Dubya's family on Sunday..... and then our own little family on Tuesday, with special guest star Aunt P.

Aunt P did not have the Norman Rockwell Christmas she dreamed of...... I'll give her another day or two to post about it, if she doesn't then maybe I'll attempt it.

As if we didn't have enough shit already, our house now looks like ToysRUs threw up --

We did a pretty good job of hiding the majority of the toys...... each of the kids kept 2 or 3 out and the rest will go into a closet..... kept in reserve 'til I'm desperate some rainy day. My cousin who has twins 14 months older than the 'lil Dubya told me that she's returning a lot of the presents her kids got -- but, I just can't bring myself to do that...... so, I'll just rotate them in and out of the closet.

Santa brought the kids one big toy to share and then a few smaller supplemental items. One thing that the Dubya and I didn't anticipate was that our Type-A, anal nature would compel us to spend more time with their kitchen than they do. See, the 'lill Dubyette just loves pulling all the dishes, pots and pans out and leaving them strewn all over the floor -- we end up picking them all up and then instead of just tossing them into one cabinet or whatever, we actually spend time arranging them in the cabinets, etc. -- ensuring all the food is in the refrigerator and all the dry goods are in the cabinet...... dishes are in the dish rack and the cups and the salt and pepper shakers are in their spot. It's absurd, and we keep catching each other doing it -- not to mention pulling slinky dog out of the oven twice an hour.

Oh well, for a few minutes each day...... I am treated to the sight of the 'lil Dubya and 'lil Dubyette "cooking" happily together and it makes me happy that Santa splurged for this gift that takes up too much space.

matching Baby Gap PJs courtesy of Aunt P

Belated Merry Christmas to all!

This year's outtakes

I'm sure the Big Dubya will be posting our Christmas Card on ye 'ole mantle this year..... some of you have already received it (or are about to) the old fashioned way. I'm always very hesitant to post pictures of the kids...... I know I don't really have many readers, but.... I worry about the sickos in the world -- so, the Big Dubya and I agree to post photos only on rare occasions and because Kara asked so nicely........ some of this year's Christmas Card outtakes for your enjoyment.

The day began innocently enough..... the Big Dubya and I getting the kiddies dressed up and trying to obtain just one decent photo of them sitting/standing/kneeling/lying next to each other.... looking in the same direction and/or smiling -- because, well.... both would be too much to ask.

After a while, it became clear that a photo of the two of them was not in the cards.... so I told the Big Dubya to try to get a decent one of each of them on their own.... we'd cobble them together somehow.

Easier said than done....

She eventually cooperated...... him, not so much

After a while, the 'lil Dubyette was just fed up with his antics -- and in true Diva fashion demanded that she be allowed sit in her trailer 'til her brother was ready to behave -- a hug from Daddy would have to do....

Apparently, ruining the family Christmas Card is tiring for the 'lil Dubya.....

110 shots later and we still had nothing good enough for the Christmas Card..... so we picked the best of a bad bunch and out they went. I don't think next year's experience will be much better..... next year there will be 3 of them

In case you are wondering how the photo shoot went....

The 'lil Dubyette got so fed up with her brother's lack of cooperation.......

She turned to her Daddy for comfort.

What a boob!

Oh good God, isn't his 15 minutes up yet? Does anybody else find this despicable?

Request for Prayer

This is "the" weekend..... we are going to attempt the annual Christmas Card Photo.

In the event you need a reminder of last year's fiasco..... here are a couple of the better ones... ones that almost made the cut

Fortunately, I'm not doing this 10 days post-partum like I was last year -- so although their may be some crying...... I'm hoping that it won't be uncontrollable sobbing by me. Unfortunately, I am on the wagon -- so no matter how stressful this gets -- the only comfort I'll be able to get is watching the Big Dubya get intimate with a bottle of Jameson.

I'm not sure if you all pray..... but, if you do -- please pray for me. If you don't pray, please send me positive vibes or whatever you do..... it would be really pathetic if the Dubyas had no card for the mantle

Random Thoughts

I wonder how many of McDonald's breakfast customers are pregnant women who are driving to work and need carbonation in order to keep from heaving.... just wondering.

For those wondering.... my breakfast selection of choice adds up to 12 Weight Watcher Points -- but it helped me stop puking on the ride into work.

Dubya News

Not sure if you've seen hubby's puzzle, but.... if you haven't -- go check it out

Those Sharpie people should really sell a solvent....

Despite the fact both of his parents were in the room, the 'lil Dubya got hold of a red Sharpie pen and introduced it to our fairly new (4, maybe 5 month old) sectional couch....... the carpet and a dresser took some abuse as well, but the couch got the lion's share of the "art".

It didn't occur to me to look at the time, but the Sharpie website does offer some guidance on stain removal.... apparently these guys have small children -- I might pick some up..... just in case.

The Big Dubya is supposed to be composing something witty, but let's just say...... our weekend was spent being "thankful" that we were able to get most of it out, and our kids "giving" each other a 24-hour bug that resulted in lots of vomit, diarrhea and of course..... laundry.

Black Friday

Tell me..... do you buy into the hype?

Do you go shopping the day after Thanksgiving?

Do you get up at 3:00 am and wait in line to get those bargains?

How is it possible?

My baby girl is a year old..... her first birthday was on Saturday.

I've been in denial over this milestone..... I just can't seem to get my head around the fact that a year has passed. She's so adorable.... I mean, I know all babies are cute and that I'm probably biased, but this kid is undeniably cute.

She's very much a Daddy's girl -- as soon as he walks through the door in the evening, she lights up and leaves whatever she's doing in the dust. She'll stand at his knee tugging at his pants until he picks her up and then she places her hands on the sides of his face and puts her forehead to his lips.

Where does the time go?

Satisfied Customer

Have you ever had a retail experience that just f'ing pissed you off?

How about one where the company went so far above and beyond that you were floored by their exemplary level of service?

A couple of weeks ago, the Dubya family was at ToysRUs and decided to pick up a small table and chairs for the 'lil ones. Nothing fancy, just something kid-size for them to color on, etc. Once we got home, I thought.... wouldn't it be great if we could get another couple of chairs -- so that when other kids come over they have a place to sit too? So, I went onto the manufacturer's website and sure enough.... I found that they do sell the chairs so, I ordered another set of 2 and a few days later they arrived.

Unfortunately, the chairs I got in the mail weren't the same color as the ones I got at ToysRUs -- same chairs, but different color. I figured I was out of luck, but I emailed the company anyway just to ask if there was a chance I could exchange them.

Let's be clear -- the company did nothing wrong, they sent me exactly what I ordered.... I just assumed they'd be the same color.... even the picture would have clued me into the fact that they aren't.

Apparently, the chairs I got at ToysRUs are part of a set that's a "ToysRUs exclusive" -- so they aren't available separately either online or at ToysRUs, BUT the customer service person tracked down a pair and had them shipped to me -- and then asked if I could leave the chairs I didn't want outside so that UPS could come pick them up.

Now that's customer service!

We are thinking of getting the kids a "kitchen" for Christmas and this experience alone would make me shop Step2 first.

What are you guys doing for Thanksgiving?

Three weeks ago

Nana Dubya: What are your Thanksgiving plans?

Mrs Big Dubya: We are just going to stay home --

Nana Dubya: Really?

Mrs Big Dubya: Yeah, we both have to work on Wednesday and it's just easier thank packing up the kids and trudging all the way home -- would you and Papa Dubya like to join us? We'd love to have you

Nana Dubya: Maybe -- we've got to see what everyone else is doing

Mrs Big Dubya: Okay -- the offer stands

Two weeks ago

Nana Dubya: Do you guys know what you are doing for Thanksgiving yet?

Mr Big Dubya: Yeah, we are staying home -- would you like to come out?

Nana Dubya: Maybe -- we'll see what your brothers are doing

A few days later

Nana Dubya: Are you guys coming home for Thanksgiving?

Mrs Big Dubya: No, we are staying home

Last week

Nana Dubya: Where are you guys having Thanksgiving dinner?

Mr Big Dubya: At home -- how about you?

Nana Dubya: We aren't really sure yet.

I'm starting to think that there might be some disapproval in our decision to stay home for Thanksgiving this year. We stayed home last year -- then again, last year the 'lil Dubyette was a mere 6 days old. I'm not a Thanksgiving person..... it's not my holiday -- to me, it's just a bigger version of Sunday dinner -- so, it's not worth the aggravation of traveling. I think my mother-in-law thinks that if she asks the question enough times, she'll finally get an answer she likes.

Champions!

Everything is as it should be

Dear Aunt P’s friend

When Aunt P called me on Saturday night to tell me that your mother was at “the end”, I just couldn’t believe this could be happening. She had just retired, you just had a baby, your brother is getting married next month…. she’s only 58 years old – how could she possibly be dying?

When the phone rang at 6:30 Sunday morning, I saw Aunt P’s number on the caller ID – calls that come at that hour rarely bring good news – no words were needed, I knew that she had passed.

When I saw you at the wake, I could tell the past few weeks had really taken a toll on you. You looked good, but tired and small. Gone was the young girl Aunt P went to second grade with and the teenager that carpooled to high school with us – before us stood a grown woman providing comfort to all those who had come to offer their comfort and support.

Your Dad looked so lost, and I just watched him trying to hold it together. It felt like you had assumed the role of the parent and he, the role of the child -- your strength was propping him up from across the room. You and your brother are truly the greatest gifts your parents ever gave each other.

The next day at the funeral, I sat next to Aunt P as she rocked your baby girl. It’s so unbelievably cruel that such a wonderful woman will never get to see those chubby little legs toddle their first steps or hear that tiny voice call her “Grammy” for the first time.

I know it's odd to say, but in a way I’m almost grateful that you didn’t lose your mom until after you became a mother yourself – because now that you are a mother, you can begin to fathom how much joy you brought her and how proud she was of the remarkable woman you’ve grown into. It doesn't soften the blow, but maybe it helps in some small way.

I’m sure it’s all a blur to you now, but the church was filled with the lives she’d shaped – friends like Granny, me and Aunt P – former students who were guided by her faith, her unintimidating style and her sense of humor – colleagues who followed her extraordinary example.

Unfortunately, she wasn’t blessed with a long enough life – but you should be so proud of the contributions she made to her community – and know, that her family was her greatest achievement and it is a magnificent one.

Lean on us when you need to
Love Mrs Big Dubya

Prosti-tots

I remember when I first read a post written by my good friend Kara, I admit it -- Kara, I'm so very sorry, I thought you were exaggerating..... out of frustration or for humor or for effect.

I was wrong, I was very, very wrong.

When she first wrote the post, I didn't have a daughter -- I hadn't really spent too much time shopping for little girl clothing -- and when I did, it was hoodies from the Gap or pajamas from the DisneyStore -- pretty vanilla stuff.

I should have been clued in when we went to DisneyWorld in May -- we were at the pool and my infant daughter was wearing something like this, other infants (yes, infants) I saw were wearing something more like this. I'm not sure a body that's still wearing a diaper is meant to wear a triangle string bikini top, but.....

The daughter of a close friend turns 4 next week -- she's tall for her age, so probably needs a size 5. I decided to go get her something cute -- I started off at the Disney Store.... thought maybe some cute pajamas or something princess-related. The pajamas? no, no really cute pajamas -- but they did have "nighties". I don't mean nightgowns..... I mean nighties -- sheer nighties. First of all, it's October -- almost November and this is Connecticut!!!! Sheer??? Where's the flannel?

I left the Disney Store disappointed and went to The Limited Too, well -- I only lasted 5 minutes in that store -- they are clearly the official outfitters of Prosti-tots -- I mean, seriously -- I wouldn't allow a teenager to wear some of the stuff I saw in that store. Gymboree was modest enough, but a bit too dressy for everyday wear and the everything I saw at OldNavy was just poorly made -- looked like it might disintegrate if you tried to wash it.

I ended up at my old stand-by, The Gap -- but they aren't getting off so easy either -- they had their fair share of baby-tart clothes too. I was able to find something 4-year old appropriate, but I had to shop for it and there weren't an abundance of choices.

What is wrong with people? Maybe we wouldn't be seeing stories about birth control for 11 year olds if we let little girls dress like little girls. No, I don't think we need to dress them like Laura Ingles, but how about keeping them fully clothed?

My name is Mrs Big Dubya, and I'm a Bread, Butter, Cheese & Cream-aholic

I've figured out why I'm fat......

I wish I could tell you that it's because I've been drinking too much beer or wine.... nope, haven't had either in a few weeks (geez, I better get on that).

I wish I could tell you that it's because I eat chocolate, cookies, pies, cakes, candy..... but no, I've got a huge candy jar in my office and I rarely touch it.

Nope -- my problem is real food. I love real, good, rich food. Big chunky bread slathered with creamy butter, cream-based soups and anything, I mean anything with cheese melted on it.

Aunt P's been trying to inspire me back onto the WeightWatchers wagon, but fate, fate I tell you keeps intervening.

This morning, I went downstairs to the cafeteria with my 1 point Thomas' English Muffin I popped that puppy into the toaster while the ginormous bagels taunted me. It came out of the toaster not toasted enough, so I popped it back in..... it came out burnt. I can't eat burnt muffin..... maybe I should get a bagel? or a big bowl of oatmeal with scoops and scoops of brown sugar.

I ate the burnt muffin..... it sucked.

Yesterday I wasn't so strong though... I went to get lunch at Baja Fresh I figured I could get something healthy there.... well, it's gone -- apparently it has been for a while, but Panera Bread was right next door -- I should have gotten a nice salad with a smart dressing, but instead I got cream of broccoli soup and this amazing chicken Caesar sandwich.... which comes with either bread or chips..... they made a mistake and gave me both and oh my Gawd was it good -- but, yeah I'm a big old fatty.

I need a support group.

We're all Coming Over -- Okay?

My family's coming over on Saturday -- my mother, my sister -- my mother's two (maybe three) sisters and their husbands -- maybe some of my cousins with their spouses and families.

I don't know when on Saturday

Don't know how long they are staying

Not sure if they are sleeping over

So, yes -- I have company coming on Saturday.... no idea how many, no idea what meal (or meals) I'll have to come up with for them .... no idea how many beds I have to make up or assign....

How does one shop for this?

In defense of the drive thru workers

I was reading the New England Mamas the other day, and I was kind of struck by a post written by a blogger I like reading very much.

I was kind of in a cranky mood, and started scripting a really snarky comment -- but then, thought better of it -- I like these ladies and don't want to piss them off.... over something so stupid. I've gotten the wrong food at drive-thru and it's inconvenient, it's annoying.... it sucks.

But, for some reason -- the post has kind of stuck with me and I figured rather than drop a comment on their site -- I'd just use my own space to share my thoughts.

In the interest of full disclosure, it has been a few years -- but I actually did work at a McDonald's drive-thru for 4+ years during high school and college.

Yes, I understand that sometimes there can be a mistake in your order. Yes, you should get what you ordered -- and it should be hot (or cold) when it is served to you.

But,

Did you know that these kids in the drive through are not making a ton of money?

Did you know that they serve hundreds of customers every hour with a fairly good accuracy rate?

Did you know that those booths are heated/air conditioned, but with the window constantly open it is freezing cold in the winter and boiling hot in the summer?

Did you know that often times that your car radio, loud exhaust and/or background chatter interferes with the speaker and that you can't always hear what the customer is saying?

Did you know that their performance is based on the number of seconds the car sits at the window? and that often times the cars behind you yell at these workers when you take a long time to get your money out or make changes to what you want once you get to the window?

Did you know that owner/operators won't let you just throw some ketchup in every bag because it impacts their bottom line? They make you wait 'til the customer asks for it.

Did you know that perverted old men drive through naked from the waist down to show you their "goods"?

I understand that you drive through because you are in a hurry and you expect them to get it right -- but are you really going to complain about a burger that cost you $0.99, a burger you couldn't even bother to get out of your car for.

The Holidays

Can you believe it? the holidays are fast approaching -- I mean, Thanksgiving is just 49 days away..... Christmas.... 82 days people, 82 days -- Did Easter even happen? 4th of July? I don't think I remember them..... where'd the year go?

Last year I was on maternity leave over the holidays, so I was able to do my Christmas shopping quite leisurely -- this year with a 10-month old hell bent on walking and a 2-year old who's hell bent on knocking her over -- not to mention a house, a husband and a full-time job -- I'm wondering how I'm going to get it all done.

Fortunately, I tend to be kind of organized..... I buy for a lot of children -- nieces, nephews, children of close friends.... so historically, I've picked one gift and given it to all of them. Last year it was the always comes in handy Gap Fleece -- good for 'lil ones, good for big ones, good for boys, good for girls -- reasonably priced when you shop the sale. Last November, I went into our local BabyGap/GapKids and bought something like fifteen of these babies. Not sure what this year's "Gift from the Dubyas" will be, but I'm open to suggestions.

Last year, I had so much time on my hands that I actually bought into the madness --

Does anybody know what this year's "hot toy" is supposed to be?

STOP TOUCHING MY CHILD!!!!!

It's so true in life.... everything happens for a reason.

Several years ago, the Big Dubya took a job -- a job that in the end, just wasn't a great fit for him. It's hard to regret his taking the job though, as it resulted in some of the great things in our life. It brought us to the area where we live which, for the most part, we love. And, it introduced us to the Buffaloes, who have become the most wonderful friends.

There were some other people we met in the course of this job..... some who we were friendly with, but then lost touch.... sad, but it happens. Some who we thought we were friends with, but as it turns out we weren't really..... disappointing, but oh well. And then there are the people that these people bring along with them -- girlfriends, boyfriends......

The Big Dubya was friends with a woman -- she was a lot of fun and we spent time with her and her boyfriend. We liked this woman, and the guy, well....... he was kind of strange -- but, other than the "ick" factor, he seemed harmless enough -- we kind of accepted him as part of the package. We weren't all that disappointed when their relationship began to fizzle out..... we'd hoped that she would move on to somebody better -- and then we lost touch with her, but we do know through some mutual friends that she did meet someone and married him -- so, it sounds like she's found some well deserved happiness.

Unfortunately, the ick dude..... well, he lives near us. For the past couple of years, we've somehow managed to miss running into him...... but you know it was bound to happen.

A couple of months ago, I was sitting at a traffic light and Mister Ick sped by me on a red moped..... I'll address my thoughts on grown 40-something men riding teeny-tiny mopeds in another post. I immediately called the Big Dubya and Mrs Cape Buffalo to relay my sighting..... I was thrilled that it was merely a drive-by and that I wasn't forced to make small talk with the guy, we had a good laugh and didn't give it a second thought. This past Saturday..... not so lucky.

The 'lil Dubyette and I were minding our own business, waiting in the deli line at Stop & Shop when I saw him. There was nowhere to run to, nowhere to hide. I could only bow my head and pray that he didn't see me...... I began playing with 'lil Dubyette's toes..... hoping to avert my eyes without looking like I was averting my eyes.

It was too late, he saw me --

Mr Ick: "Mrs Big Dubya, is that you? it's me Mr Ick"

Me: "Of course, hello Mr Ick -- how are you?"

We made small talk, and then he began rubbing 'lil Dubyette's head (WHAT IS THE MATTER WITH YOU.... GET YOUR HANDS OFF MY BABY!)..... smart child that she is, she began to grimace and whimper -- lucky for him he stopped, so I didn't have to lay on a smack-down in front of the cheese case.

I got to meet Mrs Ick..... yes, apparently he found a Mrs Ick and they have a Baby Ick.... And then he started asking me all sorts of questions about his Ex.

Uhm...... kind of uncomfortable in front of new wife, dontcha think???

Other than she met a guy, moved and got married.... I know nothing -- so I told him that hoping to end the whole ordeal -- but he started discussing their break-up and how they'd kept in touch and that she'd moved to Virginia......

My deli number was called, so I bid farewell and placed my order -- praying that they'd just go away.

He did...... I proceeded to shop very, very slowly -- didn't want to risk a second encounter.

Stop the Presses -- a 17lb baby???

What the *%&$#?

We'll get to the fact that this was her 12th baby some other time

How about a caption contest? Anybody got a good one for this photo?

"Please don't eat me", perhaps?

Nobody Puts Baby in a Corner

When I was in high school (oops, did I just give away my advanced age) Aunt P and I rented Dirty Dancing. She'd seen it in the theatres, I hadn't -- and it was a cute, girlie high school movie..... but I remember thinking how absurd the name "Baby" was..... how could anybody go through life with the nick-name "Baby" (said with an excessive amount of disdain)

Well, flash forward a few years and here a I am -- the mother of two small children -- a toddler, 2 year old 'lil Dubya and a beginning-to-toddle 10 month old 'lil Dubyette.

When we brought 'lil Dubyette home from the hospital, the 'lil Dubya was a mere 17 months old. He was great with basic words, but the 'lil Dubyette's name proved to be a tongue-twister for the little guy, so he referred to her as "Bay-bee". We all thought this was cute and as you do with new babies, we often referred to her as "the baby" as well. Time went on and we somewhat unconsciously adopted his moniker and we too began referring to her simply as "Baby".......

Well, now the 'lil man is much better with enunciation and can say her name well and fine -- yet, she's still his "Bay-bee". We try to encourage him to use her real name..... but to no avail, she's still "Bay-bee" to him. I wonder if she always will be?

This is one of the funniest thing I've ever seen

In the interst of full disclosure, this is totally stolen from Dadcentric

I just couldn't help myself --the only thing funnier than the caption is his

sincere expression as he delivers this hard-hitting news --

This will keep me laughing for days!

Nice find CroutonBoy....

Is anybody else really annoyed

Is anybody else really annoyed by this recent slew of Hollywood DUI's?

I mean seriously -- these are people who can afford a taxi, or a driver, or a fleet of limos -- what the f*ck is wrong with them?

Just the book review made me feel better

I just read this review written by a blogger whose site I've really come to enjoy.....

I may have to go out and get this book..... just the review made me feel better about the struggles I had early on..... and everyday.

And the next contestant on "Can it Swim?" is....

Yes, I found mine in the toilet......

I haven't spoken to my husband in the past few hours, so if you happen to run into him somewhere in the blogsphere..... let him know that I may not wait 'til noon to start drinking -- it's 80 degrees and the concept of a humming blender is music to my ears right about now.

My ipod, well..... it wasn't charged up anyway, so it'll be a while before I know if it works..... I'll keep you posted, but feel free to cast your vote.

'nuf said

Go Sox!

Priorities

Isn't it funny.... if you had told me two years ago that I'd pass up the chance to see the Yankees play the RedSox at Fenway in September..... I'd have laughed out loud an told you to go back to your crack pipe. But that's exactly what I'm doing tonight.... I'm sitting at home and the Big Dubya's at the game with 39 and our friends over at Cape Buffalo.

The Big Dubya got tickets months ago.... before we knew what the season would be like... and we were psyched. I could smell the peanuts.... I had it all planned out.... thought we might have some dinner here and then move stroll across the street for arguably the coldest beer in Boston.... head over to the game..... a perfect night out.

But, I'm a mother now..... the kids haven't been home for an entire weekend since the end of July -- 'lil dubyette is cutting her four top front teeth, the 'lil man's got a head cold..... I had to ask myself -- what's the best thing for them? In the final analysis, it wasn't driving 3 hours to Boston only to drive back the following day. So, I'm here..... watching the game on TV.

The Big Dubya took off this afternoon and I stayed behind -- and I'm actually fine with it.

Don't get me wrong -- I would love to see the Sox play the Yankees at Fenway, and this is a great year to do it -- but, I'm needed here. The Yankees will come back to Fenway next year, and for many, many years to come. The 'lil Dubyette...... well, she's never going to cut these teeth again -- and as she gets more and more independent (she's 10 months tomorrow!!!) she needs me a little less each day -- I'm not going to miss the chance to be here for her.

On the bright side, I can switch back & forth between the Sox & the Patriots, I'm in my pjs on a comfy couch and my beers...... they' re free :)

Things I swore I'd never do

Before I was a parent, I had a long (very long) list of things that I swore I would never, under any circumstances do......

Some, I've kept -- others I've broken..... and then there are the ones that I've taken to a whole new level.

So..... what are yours?

For those who are a bit slow..... this is me trying to figure out if I have any readers.

You know maternity clothes won't make you pregnant, right?

What is it about maternity clothes that freak people out?

After I had the 'lil lady, I learned that one of Aunt P's friends was expecting -- so I shipped my crate of maternity clothes off to her via Aunt P.

My cousin had lent me a bunch of stuff too, but she didn't want them back--- the instructions I received were "give them away, sell them, burn them.... I don't care what you do, just don't bring them back to me -- I will never need them again." So, I sent those along too.... why let them go to waste.

The Big Duyba, who'd made his desire to stop at two children crystal clear, was very happy to see them go..... apparently just having these clothes meant we might find ourselves needing them, and he didn't want to take any chances.

Well, Aunt P's friend is set to deliver any day now, and when we were at Aunt P's this past weekend I got the clothes back. The Big Dubya looked at these giant Rubbermaid containers with such disdain -- you would have thought the were filled with anthrax.

In contrast, Mr Tall Guy (Aunt P's husband) was giddy to see them go -- in fact, he carried them to the car for us.... if we didn't have room, he probably would have driven the 3 hours to deliver them....

You guys know that it's not the clothes that get you pregnant, right?

Update: on the Stroller Derby

A week or so ago, I posted about my stroller woes......

Well, the nice people at the stroller company have gotten back to me (we'll ignore the fact that it took over a week) and are going to replace the mangled hoods -- and all it's going to cost me is the $8 shipping charge -- which, I think is fair.

Yaaayyyyy -- I've still got Granny keeping an eye out for a double stroller in good condition at the Church's yard sale..... just in case these hoods don't stand up, but I am pleased that the stroller company is going to do the right thing by the Dubyas.

Good God, Please say that this isn't true

The latest suspect

One more to add to the list of things that can't swim

So, the 'lil man gingerly tossed my phone into the kitchen sink while I was doing dishes -- I grabbed it quickly -- but apparently not quickly enough. First it wouldn't shut off, then it wouldn't charge and now it won't do anything. If you've been trying to call..... don't bother... I'm not home.

I stopped at the Cingular (Cingular, AT&T.... whatever they are calling themselves this week)store near my office at lunch today to see if there was something they could do -- perhaps replace the battery..... I had to try.... it was still a decent phone.

When she finished laughing at me she asked if I had insurance..... uhm, I don't know.... insurance? that probably would have been a good idea, huh?

She removed the battery and began laughing again..... "I've never seen the water damage button this bright before. Yeah, this phone is done -- sorry."

Did you know my phone had a "water damage button" , cause I didn't...... and I also didn't know that it's bad, really bad when the water damage button is bright red.

Looks like I'll be getting a new phone......

well, it aint the happiest place on earth -- that's for sure

Not sure what it was, but Labor Day Weekend hit me like a ton of bricks this year.

Despite just getting back from CA on the 23rd, I had a deep desperate need to do "something" for the last official weekend of the summer. I emailed suggestion after suggestion to the Big Dubya and got a whole lot of "uhm yeah, maybe" from him all week. I'd finally just kinda chalked it up to a weekend at home when on Thursday afternoon I got an email from him proposing we execute one of the ideas I'd laid out earlier in the week.


I'll be honest, I was psyched and pissed all rolled into one. Psyched because we were going somewhere, doing something..... something that the kids would LOVE. Pissed because I had one day to get the house in order, the laundry done, the kids packed and ready to go away AGAIN. But, with a fair amount of grousing and a little bit of help from the big guy, I did it




On Saturday morning we jumped in the car and headed for Sesame Place. The plan was to be there roughly when the park opened and stay all day. I'd arranged for us to attend a "character dinner" where we'd have the opportunity to "dine" with Big Bird, Cookie, Ernie, Bert and all the gang. I had high hopes for this dinner..... I have high hopes for any dinner that charges me $16.95 for a two year old who eats like.... well, like a two year old.

What did we think of Sesame Place?

Well.... it's not Disney. It's not clean, the workers spend more time talking on their cell phones than working (oh, I'm not exaggerating one tiny little bit) and the patrons are rude -- rude to the workers, rude to the other patrons, rude to their kids and rude to each other. It's fair to say that we've been spoiled by Disney and probably expect too much, but..... with a name like Sesame attached to it -- I expected way more from Sesame Place.

The dinner was terrible, the service was terrible, the food was terrible -- but, the characters were great and the kids were in little-kid-heaven -- making it all worthwhile.

It could be that the holiday weekend is responsible for my negative impression of the place, it could be that it's dry (yep, no booze on Sesame Street) -- but, I was underwhelmed.

Once you add in our not-so-stellar experience at the nearby and newly refurbished (cough, cough, cough) Comfort (a misnomer if there ever was one) Inn -- we were glad to get back home on Sunday.

We are so spoiled

I was emailing back and forth yesterday -- with a friend I don't see or speak to nearly enough. Since we had kids and I moved out of state -- I find we just don't seem to get together like we did, like we should. Email's so impersonal..... yet, if we didn't email.... we probably wouldn't talk at all -- so impersonal as it may be, I'm very grateful for it.


Anyway, we were chatting away about this and that..... what our kids are doing, what our weekend plans are (oh, us?? yeah, we don't have any plans yet because the Big Dubya's been a big lazy ass and hasn't told me what he wants to do... so we'll probably end up at home, which is fine, but.....) and our shared desire to have a baby #3. We've had nearly identical discussions with our husbands about the topic.... we get similar arguments from them -- we don't have the money, the space, the time..... it would be chaos, we are getting older, how'd we pay for college and where on earth would we put a third car seat?


All reasonable arguments....


And, then I thought about it.... I'm one of three...... my mother didn't have a car until I was in high school and Aunt P and I shared a room 'til then too -- I think we've turned out okay.


Isn't it funny how spoiled we've all become? I mean, my mother came from a family of 7 children -- they lived in a tiny house with 3 small bedrooms and it didn't even have a bathroom until the 1950's. My dad's family was considered "small" with a mere 6 children..... his cousins were all one of 10, 11 or 12. He remembers the day their house got electricity -- and neither of my parents had a phone in the house where the grew up -- my dad's parents got theirs when he was in college -- and I remember when my mother's mother finally got hers (no, I'm not that old).


We've got ourselves programmed to think that our kids have to wear clothes from Hanna, Lilly or Ralph (my personal obsession is with Baby Gap, but.....) and that their days just have to be filled with lessons, play dates, trips and activities -- why can't they just go play in the dirt? we did. They have to have a DVD player in the car for long rides -- whereas we did just fine making up games..... we used mile markers, license plates and of course, we played countless games of Uno.


It will boggle your mind if you stop to think about how our kids are being raised compared to how our parents were raised and how they raised us... without disposable diapers, without wipes (how can you live in a world without baby wipes???) -- there were no Boppys, no Exersaucers, no battery operated swings.... all things that we think we absolutely "NEED" our parents and grandparents did just fine without.

Don't get me wrong -- I'm not casting stones at any of you..... my kids have more "stuff" than they will ever need or want -- and I think for the most part that's okay -- as long as we raise them to be grateful and to know how fortunate they are.

The Stroller Derby

No not the blog....... this is my life people.

Once upon a time, I was an expectant mother..... yes, it seems like so very long ago. At the urging (insistence) of my sister, I registered..... and after laboring and deliberating and researching...... we registered for a Graco travel system. Friends and family all weighed in on their preference.... "Peg Perego's the one you want" I heard over and over again. But, I chose the Graco largely because the car seat received a very high safety rating and only weighed 7lbs -- but also because I couldn't bring myself to register for something that cost as much as the Peg Peregos.

The car seat was terrific -- safe but light enough for me to carry without trouble, the 'lil lady is still using it. The stroller? Well, it was big and bulky -- it handled like a dream and had two awesome cup holders as well as a cute compartment for other stuff, but it was big and bulky and took up the entire trunk of my car. I never wanted to take it out because I knew that I'd ultimately have to lift it back in.

While at TJMaxx one day, I found a Peg Perego for $100 or so (I can't really remember now) it was a similar pattern to the Graco car seat so I picked it up. It was much easier to manage and it fit in the back of my car much better -- I used it quite a bit -- 'til the tray snapped off (I guess it was at TJ's for a reason, huh?). The stroller still worked fine, but -- it looked kind of ghetto with a broken tray dangling from it.

When the 'lil man got a little older, I ended up getting one of the compact strollers..... it's really just a fancy umbrella stroller. I liked it a lot -- so handy, so compact -- but he couldn't really recline in it and it offered minimal protection from the sun/elements.

When the 'lil lady came along I insisted that I wouldn't bother buying a double stroller -- I could make do with what I had. I used the Baby Bjorn a lot -- coupled with the mini-stroller, the kids were manageable. Except..... w/ the Bjorn a coat is tough (for you or the baby) and getting them both in and out of the car and settled into their stroller/Bjorn in the midst of a New England winter can be a challenge.

I secretly spied double strollers..... man, they are pricey! I was in the mall one day and I saw one that looked cool, manageable -- not too big, not too fancy -- but could recline and would provide sun coverage. I stopped the woman and asked her about it -- she was psyched to share the info -- she told me everything. Apparently, I'm not the only one who obsesses about strollers..... she'd collected a few herself but really liked this particular model.

So, based on the recommendation of this random woman I stalked in the mall, we broke down and bought one. We literally left the mall and went to BabiesRUs to buy this stroller. So far, it's been all I dreamed it would be..... EXCEPT c'mon you knew it was coming...... why else would I be boring you all with my stroller fetish. The hoods (the manufacturer calls them canopies) are bent. They've been kind of mis-shapen since we got it, but I thought they would regain their shape once the stroller wasn't all smooshed in the box -- but, nope -- and the more we try to manipulate them back into shape -- the more warped they get.

The problem with the mangled hoods isn't really as cosmetic as it sounds -- its more that they don't offer much sun protection. I thought we just got unlucky, but while in Disneyland last week we spied several other couples with the same stroller and all of them had mangled hoods. I approached a few of these parents and asked about it -- pointing to our own gimpy hoods. They all held the same opinion -- love the stroller, but the hoods are a disgrace. A few people had improvised and picked up these in order to provide some protection from the sun.

When I got home, I dug out the instruction manual -- to see if there was a customer service number and sure enough they had an order form where you could order replacement parts. So, I filled it out and faxed it over to them -- asking them to replace the hoods for free. My rationale is that I love the stroller, but it is only 6 months old -- the hoods should be in better shape than this, and replacing them should be covered by the warranty. I asked them to contact me if they had questions...... haven't heard anything yet. Good sign? Who knows!

I'll let you know how it goes.

In the meantime, I did pick up the supplemental shade and have called a couple of consignment shops to see if they have a gently used double stroller in stock -- maybe I can trade a couple of my singles for a deal on a double? or a triple? (just kidding and, of course trying to freak the Big Dubya out) who knows!

Disneyland? or just MiniDisney?

Just back from a week in California that began in Santa Monica and wrapped up with a few days in Disneyland and Disney's California Adventure Park.

My sister and I took my mother to DisneyWorld back in the fall of 2001..... it was shortly before I got married. It was my first trip and I recall how amazed I was at all the pride and joy these employees ("cast members") had. It wasn't just the "Welcome Home" people at the hotels, it was the people running the rides, the people serving the food, the people driving the buses.... even the people cleaning the bathrooms -- they were all doing their work with a spring in their step.

Since that first trip in 2001, I've been back to DisneyWorld -- geez, it must be half a dozen times. My impression of the place hasn't changed -- everyone walks around like they are an owner -- and it's nice..... maybe a tiny bit irritating at times, but it's really nice.

Disneyland? Well, Disneyland was different. Don't get me wrong -- the 'lil Dubya had an AMAZING time. He got to meet Buzz and Woody -- he got to dance with Sully and Boo -- he shook hands with Mickey and waved sheepishly at Pluto. The dancers gave him high-fives and the photographers couldn't wait to take his picture. But....... there were also the usual disgruntled employees that you'd see anywhere..... well, anywhere except DisneyWorld that is.

It was really nothing too serious, just a guy who was annoyed by my coffee order..... a gift shop clerk who wasn't all that interested in answering questions.... a ride operator who didn't care when I told him that the monitor in our "car" was busted, a Buzz Lightyear who was 20 minutes late for his photo-op -- all things that happen anywhere, except of course DisneyWorld that is. The maps, well they weren't quite as detailed or easy to follow and the photo-ops were never where they were listed to be. I understand that this was largely driven by the heat, but...... it's Southern California -- uhm hullo, didn't they know it'd be hot in August?

The BlockParty Bash was awesome -- the 'lil man danced and Bo Peep twirled him around. It was a little boy's dream-come-true. My heart broke when he looked up with his enormous brown eyes and signed for "more, more" and we had to tell him that it was over.

I have to give two thumbs up to the waitresses that took care of us in Downtown Disney at the ESPN Zone and the House of Blues -- I mean, they really knew how to help out a couple trying to have lunch with two babies.

Side Note: I got a great tip from Kara over at CapeBuffalo one day when the Big Dubya & I were dining in a restaurant with the Buffalo family. I was still pregnant with 'lil Dubya and wondered why she ordered Baby Buffalo's food as soon as we sat......before she even opened a menu herself she was ordering a hotdog or something for kiddo..... it was a stroke of genius. The kid's food comes right away and you can help them get started with it before yours even comes -- isn't it amazing the 'lil tips you can pick up from the more seasoned moms????.

The ESPN Zone's food wasn't very good -- but the service was such, that we didn't really care. The food at the House of Blues was outstanding -- the Big Dubya even tried something new. I also have to note that I LOVE the dudes who do curbside check-in at LAX. When you've got two carseats, a double stroller, two squirmy babies and a week's worth of luggage..... curbside check-in is a gift from God!

Overall, I really liked Disneyland -- it is much, much smaller than DisneyWorld -- but the way the two parks and Downtown Disney all share a common courtyard makes it really manageable to hop from one to the other throughout the day, even with two wee ones in tow. It also makes the characters a bit more accessible. We got to see most of the ones we wanted up close multiple times because the crowds aren't so huge. It was also easy to find a quiet shady spot to sit and enjoy a cold adult beverage while the kiddies snoozed in the stroller.

If your kids are fans of the Pixar movies, and you have the opportunity -- the Block Party Bash is really worth it.

Hmmmm, 'lil Dubya, DDS?..... maybe

Just back from a wonderful, albeit whirlwind trip to California....... cousin's wedding in Santa Monica, miniature family-reunion at Hermosa Beach and then a couple of days at Disneyland in Anaheim (longer post on all of that later).

In the meantime, let's just say...... the 'lil Dubya got to spend some quality time with his Pixar heroes. After giving Lightening McQueen a good polish......


He decided Mater needed some dental work

Safe & Sound in Santa Monica

So, here we are -- safe & sound in Santa Monica.

The kids were amazingly well behaved, despite hardly sleeping at all on the flight. People actually stopped to comment on how well behaved they were...... I was so proud.

Taking it easy today -- got a rehearsal dinner tonight, but did go for a nice walk this morning -- this truly is where the beautiful people live.

Let's just hope the kids are as well behaved during the various wedding festivities.

California, here we come!

I know it's been a while... and it's not that I haven't had anything to say.... it's just that I haven't really had the time to say it.

This has been one of "those" summers....... one where every weekend has been overbooked with things we "just have to" attend and a bunch of things we "just can't miss"

A wedding in Ireland, a christening in New York, The Police rockin' Fenway Park, friends home visiting from Colorado, another wedding.... this time in Santa Monica. That's right, the Big Dubya and I are packing up the lowercase dubyas and we are flying (on a completely sold out flight) to CA on Thursday night. Can you hear the fear in my voice?

Six hours people....... a two year old and an 8 month old.

I'm trying not to panic...... but please pray for us, and for those poor unfortunate souls who sit near us.

C'mon, Go Check Us Out!

Our latest post is up..... I be we aren't alone in this particular DadSaidMomSaid issue.

Just Click the banner.....

it'll bring you right to our post.....

you know you want to --

so click already

Excuse me, Did I hear you right? Did you say SEVENTEEN????

Okay, I know..... it's been documented here and here, and you guys are probably tired of reading about how I want another baby and the Big Dubya's not so convinced.... although, recently his stance as changed from an "ABSOLUTELY NO F'ING WAY!" to a "Well, maaayyybbeee we can think about it"

Anyway, check these guys out!

She's 40, he's 42 and they just welcomed baby number SEVENTEEN!!!!!

Yes, I just wrote that SEVENTEEN.... you didn't misread anything.... SEVENTEEN!


That's right folks, SEVENTEEN children ranging from newborn to 19 years old..... they've had two sets of twins. Of course, part of me wonders if she even goes through labor anymore of if they just fall out -- yeah, okay sorry, I know way TMI.

And people think I'm nuts for wanting a measly three!

And I sat, sobbing at my desk

This time last year was a wonderful time in the Dubya household......

The 'lil man was 13 months old -- he'd skipped over walking and gone right to running. I was 20 weeks pregnant with the 'lil lady...... I'd just started feeling her move around, she was strong and healthy. My cousin M, was also expecting -- after 8 years of trying and more than a dozen unsuccessful in-vitros, she was 27½ weeks along with twins. Pregnancy wasn't kind to her -- at 13 weeks she was put on strict bedrest and at 21 weeks she'd been hospitalized -- she was kept inverted around the clock in an effort to stop pre-term labor. She was unable to shower or use the bathroom, she remained that way for 42 days.

I came into work and opened this email from my cousin D (M's younger sister):

-----Original Message-----
From: D
Sent: Monday, July 24, 2006 9:54 AM
To: MrsBigDubya
Subject: M delivered

M delivered 2 boys this morning. I don't have any details yet about weight and their status, other that they're in ICU. I'm waiting for my parents to call me with updates. I tried calling your mom's house, but I got the machine, so I didn't leave a message. If you can pass the news along.

I'll get back to you as I get more news.
D

I sat at my desk and sobbed. As I felt my own baby flutter around inside, I felt an enormous sense of relief, gratitude and guilt. How could this have happened to her? This is a woman who was born to be a mother -- her dreams were finally coming true and now this.

I cried on and off all day.... glued to my phone and email, hoping..... praying for some sort of positive news.... and dreading the possibility of learning that the unthinkable had happened.

The next message came -- but didn't offer much in the way of hope -- the situation was still beyond critical

-----Original Message-----
From: D
Sent: Monday, July 24, 2006 4:23 PM
To: Mrs Big Dubya
Subject: (no subject)

Not much of an update, but here's what I know.

She delivered naturally. Apparently she felt the babies coming early this morning and they were going to do a csection but I don't think that there was enough time.

Baby A was 2lb 2oz, no length size available.
Baby B was 1lb 15ozs, no length size available. This baby is on a vent.

That is all that I know. I am headed to the hospital shortly so I let you know more info later
D

More tears, more prayers, more gratitude, more guilt...... layer on some feelings of helplessness and a primal urge to go home and hold the 'lil Dubya as tight as I could. I'd had a baby in the NICU, I knew the terror....... and our 'lil man wasn't even that serious.

The message I received the next day was more of the same

-----Original Message-----
From: D
Sent: Tuesday, July 25, 2006 6:42 AM
To: Mrs Big Dubya
Subject: (no subject)

Well, I went to the hospital last night and saw the babies. They are really tiny. Baby A was 13 & 3/4 inches long, weighing 2lbs & 2 ozs and Baby B was 13 & 1/4inches, weighing 1 lb & 15 ozs. M looked good and was in better spirits than I imagined. One of her friends that is a NICU nurse was visiting while we were there, so I didn't get to talk to her too much. She had to have an episiotomy, all the way from her vagina to rectum because the doctor had to put his entire hand in to either turn a baby or pull one out (I never got the full story on that).She hasn't chosen their names so I'll just keep referring to them as A & B.

A is on a CPAP mask and in an incubator already. He was crying a lot while we were there, which is a good sign. He had a little hat on him and his little eyebrows looked like they were blond. B is on a ventilator and still in the tray under the lights. I don't know when he'll be able to go into the incubator. I really didn't get to stay near him too long because the nurse who was working on him was a real bitch, and M was trying to get information out of her while her NICU friend was there so she could get a better understanding of how his condition is. My parents asked me why B wasn't in the incubator yet and I didn't have the heart to tell them that the most critical preemies are kept on the tray for easy access in case of the need to resuscitate.

They'll start doing scans by the end of the week to check and see if there is any organ damage and take each day as it comes with other health issues. I will keep the updates coming and now I'm going to try and go back to sleep for an hour before the kids get up.
D

The days and weeks that followed were filled with more tears, more sobbing and more prayers.

So, now here we are -- a year later. It's been a long year for M -- a year filled with an open heart surgery, two hernia repairs, and several rounds of laser eye surgery. Baby B was on continuous oxygen for many months and Baby A had some health issues of his own.

The 'lil Dubya, 'liller Dubyette and I attended their first birthday on Saturday -- they are small, but strong -- they are crawling, pulling themselves up and beginning to take their first steps.

Miracles happen...... I saw two of them on Saturday afternoon.