Creating My Own Adventure - ktja's Blog - SacMomsClub.com

Creating My Own Adventure - ktja's Blog - SacMomsClub.com http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja Life's humorous, challenging and sentimental moments. Life's humorous, challenging and sentimental moments. en-us How the heck do you transform a transformer? http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/9279 http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/9279 <font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003300" size="3"> <p>Jakey is now 4 1/2. We've had a love affair with Bob the Builder, The Wiggles, we're almost over Max and Ruby and are now firmly planted in the world of superheroes and Transformers. He's all about Spiderman, Superman and The Hulk, but lately, his favorites are the Transformers. You know the ones... transformers, more than meets the eye. Transformers, robots in disguise. You get it. </p> <p>Infact, his interest in transformers came unexpectedly. He came home from preschool one day and started talking about Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, Bulkhead and Megatron. Mega-who? Optimus what? With a quick tutorial from both hubby and Jake, I was introduced to the world of transformers. This is new territory for me, but I'm learning. They basically transform from a robot into a tank or car or whatever.  </p> <p>We recently cleared out some of Jake's toys that he had outgrown, only to promptly fill the temporary void with new ones. (and I wonder why my house is cluttered) Enter transformers Optimus Prime and Bumblebee. They look innocent enough, all safely wrapped in their plastic container, until you actually try to <em>remove </em>them from the plastic container.  Game on. </p> <p>Obstacle #1 - trying to open the plastic container. I nearly cut my hand.</p> <p>Obstacle #2 - I finally got it open only to be confronted with both transformers firmly strapped to the cardboard with several pieces of wire ties holding them down. I went straight for the pliers. This is too much work. </p> <p>Obstacle #3 - Jake had played with them for a period of time in their robot form, when he wanted them to transform into their other form. Sounded simple enough. I was no stranger to the Rubiks Cube back in the day. Same concept, right? Well, maybe it's just me, but I could not get the darn things to transform! Either the arm or leg didn't fold down correctly. The head kept popping up. I was close, but not quite.  They came with instructions, but I didn't bother to read them. Yes, my fault. But really, should it be that hard? How the heck do you transform a transformer?! </p> <p>Sadly, I had to say,"wait until Daddy gets home". I don't like to do that because I want to be the one that can help with anything and everything, but in this case, it wasn't happening. So, I will continue to practice my hand at transforming the transformers, but until then, maybe Bob the Builder will make a guest appearance. With him what you see is what you get. No transforming needed. </p> <p> </p> </font> Spandex - it's not for everyone http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/9214 http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/9214 <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="3">I've been watching the Olympics off and on since they started over 10 days ago. I've seen a little of everything including swimming, diving, gymnastics, track and field and volleyball. Every single athlete looks so, well, athletic. Healthy, toned, muscular and fit. By being in such great shape, it allows them to wear the appropriate technical gear to perform at the top of their game. For some that includes the dreaded spandex. But they look fantastic!  Even in slow motion they look fantastic. Not one single ripple, jiggle or shake. </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="3">As I've been watching the athletes perform and have been impressed by their physique, I actually laughed out loud (yes, I really did)  as to what I would look like wearing spandex, leotards or bikinis that the beach volleyball players wear.</font>  <font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="3">Let's just say the ratings might go down...or perhaps they might go up. Did you see her?! I would be rippling, jiggling and shaking all over the screen. I'm actually in fairly decent shape, but fairly decent shape does not afford me the luxury of wearing spandex...nor would I want to! </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="3">Perhaps if there was a mom Olympics somewhere. (I heard the term mom Olympics from another mom blogger) I'd fit right in wearing my Nike sweat pants, stained t-shirt and flip flops. Nonetheless, the mere thought of it made me laugh...in fact I laughed all the way to the freezer and enjoyed my favorite ice cream with my son.  </font></p> Pat on the Head and Kiss on the Cheek http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/9199 http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/9199 <p><font color="#003366" size="2">Yes, it's true. I have an Olympic size crush on Mr. Michael Phelps. Not in a slimy, "how you doing" kinda way. But more because I think he's grounded, humble, gracious and charming. And I (ahem) barely noticed his abs. But what I think is really endearing about Michael Phelps is how he treats his mom. After the ceremony for winning his 8th gold medal, he created a path in a sea of photographers, climbed through the bleachers to get to his mom for a pat on the head and a kiss on the cheek. How proud she must be. </font></p> <p><font color="#003366" size="2">It's also been fun watching Michael Phelps compete accompanied by the commentary from my four year old.   A sample of one of our conversations....</font></p> <p><font color="#003366" size="2">Jake: Why is his mom there?</font></p> <p><font color="#003366" size="2">Me: Because she wants to support him.</font></p> <p><font color="#003366" size="2">Jake: Who dropped him off?</font></p> <p><font color="#003366" size="2">Me: I'm not quite sure.</font></p> <p><font color="#003366" size="2">Jake: How did he get there? </font></p> <p><font color="#003366" size="2">Me: Someone probably drove him.</font></p> <p><font color="#003366" size="2">Jake: (very sheepishly) Maybe we swam there....</font></p> <p><font color="#003366" size="2">He's also developing a sense of humor.</font></p> <p><font color="#003366" size="2">So I'll continue to admire Michael Phelps from afar and look forward to the day when Jake wins his medal, award or certificate and clears a path to get to me for a pat on the head and kiss on the cheek. </font></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> Change it Up http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/9173 http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/9173 <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#008080" size="3">To some extent, I am a creature of habit.  I always fall asleep on my left side, I have one diet coke per day, I take the same route to work and I order the exact same sandwich from Subway almost every time I eat there; 6" turkey on wheat, American cheese, light mustard, lettuce, bell peppers, pickles, spinach and a little salt and pepper. Boring? Maybe. Or perhaps I'm decisive and know what I want.</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#008080" size="3">Nonetheless, I've decided to change things up a bit and challenge myself. Challenge myself to step out of my comfort  zone and try new things. Different things. Things that I wouldn't normally do. </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#008080" size="3">So here's my progress a few weeks into my "self challenge".</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#008080" size="3">I have added a few sleeveless shirts into my wardrobe. I have always been self conscious of my upper arms because they are not exactly the arms that would appear in Shape magazine. (well, maybe the before picture) I figured lifting a 20 pound baby would help, but it's those darn triceps! Curses! I guess tricep kick backs are in order. Nonetheless, I am wearing more sleeveless tops, (still self conscious), but wearing them. </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#008080" size="3">Today, I got Swiss cheese on my Subway sandwich instead of American. I know, pretty thrilling. Baby steps, right? </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#008080" size="3">But the most "unlike' me thing that I've done recently is that I went to see a movie by myself. Not earth shattering for those of you that have been doing this for years (like my mom) but I just never have done it. Hubby was gone for the weekend playing in a softball tournament and my in-laws offered to watch my wee ones. I didn't want to waste my precious hours of freedom at the grocery store, so I thought a movie was in order.  Yes, I chose The Hulk. Because of the special effects and well, how big he is, I thought it would be better on the big screen as opposed to waiting for it to be released on DVD... like I would normally do. </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#008080" size="3">I got to the theater just in time to get settled into my seat and realize it was more crowded than I thought it was going to be. At least no one sat next to me. I made it through the previews and five minutes into the movie when all of a sudden, my perfect movie moment was squelched when <em>she</em> sat next to me. She kicked my foot when she sat down and her long, curly hair kept hitting my arm. eww. I thought about moving over one seat, but I was worried that I would insult this nameless stranger that I would probably never see again. Oh well. I readjusted and it worked out. However, I do want to go to another movie by myself, but in a bigger theater with less people and more space.  </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#008080" size="3">My next big challenge is to plan an overnight trip to San Francisco with just hubby, no kids. We've never been away for an overnight excursion, so this will be a first for us. I'm looking forward to it, but I know I'll be a little anxious. </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#008080" size="3">So, I'll continue to try to change my routine here and there and try new things. Before I know it, I'll be ordering ham sandwiches on sourdough and sleeping on my right side...well, let's not go too far. </font></p> Sharing Their Heartache http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/9115 http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/9115 <p><font size="2">My brother and his wife have a wonderful six year old son. They are great parents and are providing him with a loving, nurturing and supportive home. For whatever reason, however, even with the help of fertility drugs, they were unable to conceive for a second time.  After much consideration, they decided to adopt. They went through the interview process, paperwork, classes, screenings and other necessary steps.  Once approved, they were put on a waiting list. They had been on the list for over 18 months until the silence was broken. On a recent Thursday evening, the adoption agency called to say that a woman had just given birth to a baby girl and they had been selected to be the parents. They could meet their new baby on Sunday. </font></p> <p><font size="2">Thrilled beyond words, they prepared steadily for three days. Putting up the crib, buying diapers and most significantly, opening their hearts, minds and emotions to the thought of welcoming a baby girl into their lives.  </font></p> <p><font size="2">Sunday rolled around and they drove for over four hours to the hospital. (they live in a different state). On the way to the hospital, they called immediate family members to spread the good word. My brother's voice was filled with excitement and anticipation. Something that they had wanted for so long was about to become a reality. Unfortunately, the story doesn't have a happy ending for them. By the time they arrived at the hospital, they were greeted by the representative from the adoption agency. She had a grim look on her face. Apparently there was a breakdown in communication and the birth mother changed her mind on Saturday and decided to keep her baby. </font></p> <p><font size="2">She absolutely has the right to change her mind. I'm convinced it must be one of the hardest decisions a woman will ever have to make. I just felt so badly for my brother and his family. Although they were only notified four days earlier, it was long enough for them to become completely in love with the idea of raising another child. It would be unfair to describe the woman's background, situation and financial means in this blog, because it does not make her feelings for her child any less significant. But it is hard knowing that my brother and his wife would have been able to provide everything this baby could want or need as evidence by their son.</font></p> <p><font size="2">When I spoke to my brother, he described it as a "heart wrenching" experience which is a very strong word for him to use considering that he is a pretty happy-go-lucky guy. I share their heartache with them, but they are also very aware and appreciative for the many blessings they have. If it's meant to be, it will be. </font></p> You're Married?!! http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/9093 http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/9093 <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="3">For about a year, Jake and Abi (his "girlfriend" from preschool) made a promise to get married when they turn five. According to Jake, they were going to get married at preschool with all of their friends and teachers present to witness the joyous occasion... except me. I was not invited. Isn't he a little young to already have issues with his mother? </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="3">One day while picking her up from preschool, Abi's mom overheard the young couple talking and Jake said " I can't marry you anymore because I'm gonna marry my mama," Wow. I went from not being invited to the wedding to being the bride.  I was flattered. Must be the new moisturizer I'm using. </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="3">This afternoon I was looking through some photos and stumbled across some from my wedding. (8 years ago in November aggh!) Jake has seen our wedding pictures before so I shared it with him. Thinking that he would say that I looked like a princess (because he's said that before and uh, ya, I did look like a princess thankyouverymuch) I was surprised, yet amused by his reaction. He took the picture from my hand, his eyes as wide as saucers, looked at me, looked back at the picture and finally exclaimed, "You're married?!!".  It was as if a light bulb had just gone off in his head and he had just discovered a deep dark secret that I was keeping from him. </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="3">I explained that I married Daddy. He leaned on the bed, threw his head back and in disgust said, " fine".  I asked, 'is this because you wanted to marry me?" He shook his  head yes. I couldn't help but smile and just give him a big hug. Let's hope he always thinks this highly of me...at least I'll have a shot at getting invited to his real wedding. </font></p> Tattoo You http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/9060 http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/9060 <p><font size="3"><span style="COLOR: teal; FONT-FAMILY: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial">My husband has two. My sister has four. My brother in-law has half a sleeve and my other brother in-law is trying to remove his. Yes, I'm referring to tattoos. I actually think that tattoos are interesting to look at, but perhaps what's more interesting is the reason why people get them. Some are sentimental, some are symbolic and some just because.  It seems like in mid-town and downtown <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Sacramento</st1:place></st1:city> there are tattoo parlors on every corner. I often wonder how they can all stay in business, but then you look around and you can see why. They're everywhere! On arms, legs, necks, backs, ankles and I'm sure on some private areas only for select people to see. I've seen some that are truly works of art, beautifully done. I've seen others that appear quite tacky and others that make me wonder, WTF were you thinking?! However, you won't find one on me...but perhaps that may change. </span><span style="FONT-SIZE: 9pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial"><o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p><span style="COLOR: teal; FONT-FAMILY: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial"><font size="3">For the longest time, when the topic of tattoos would come up in conversation , I would definitively say, "No, I don't want one. I wouldn't know what to get." Well, I'm changing my tune. I'm actually considering it... well, kindof, maybe considering it.  I really haven't mentioned this to anyone other than my husband. I'm sure that most people that know me would be surprised that I'm contemplating this. It's certainly nothing unique, but perhaps I'm not the "type". (whatever the "type" is.) I still don't know exactly what to get, but it would be something involving my kids, my family.  Perhaps something designed to include their initials or birthdates. Hubby thinks I would regret getting one. We'll see. So until I make up my mind, I'll continue to enjoy the wide range of art walking around <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Sacramento</st1:place></st1:city>. </font></span><span style="FONT-SIZE: 9pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial"><o:p></o:p></span></p> Happy Birthday Sweet Baby Girl http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/9012 http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/9012 <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#008080" size="3">It's hard to believe that it's already been one year. Happy birthday sweet Baby Girl.  </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#008080" size="3">After my miscarriage, I didn't want to worry about getting pregnant. I didn't want to "try" and I didn't want to be concerned with when the "right time" was. After about eight weeks, on a hunch, I took a pregnancy test and sure enough, it was positive. I was excited, but guarded. </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#008080" size="3">The first two trips to the Dr's office were dismal as she could not detect a heartbeat. Infact, after the second visit, she suggested it could be an ectopic pregnancy, so off we went to take a more intensive ultrasound. But much to our joy, although very faint, the grainy screen picked up your heartbeat.  At that moment, for the amount of worrying we had already done, hubby said it's gotta be a girl. And he was right. </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#008080" size="3">We've spent the last year watching you grow and develop. You love to give hugs, play shy and bury your face in my shoulder and laugh at your big brother's silly antics. Instead of first learning to crawl, you preferred to roll from your back to your belly to get from point A to point B. You enjoy playing the xylophone, listening to music and going for rides in the stroller.  Your hair, however, is a good indication at what a unique and special little girl you are. For the first several months, you literally had a mohawk (or faux hawk). From the front to back, it stood straight up. Recently, it's taken on a new twist. The front lays down, but the back still stands tall. It's quite the conversation starter as even strangers in the grocery store like to comment on it. I love it. It's what makes you, you. </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#008080" size="3">So as your birthday draws to a close, I look forward to another year of firsts. Happy birthday sweet Baby Girl. You make us so proud. </font></p> <p> </p> <p> </p>

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Baby Girl on her first birthday They Wear it Well http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/8988 http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/8988 <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#008080" size="3">With the weather being as hot as it has been lately, nothing says summer quiet like ice cream and frozen treats. As a kid, I can recall many a night when the blender would come out of the cabinet and chocolate milkshakes would be swirling around. Or for an extra special treat, we would ride our bikes to Dairy Queen and indulge in Peanut Buster Parfaits. (still one of my favorites) </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#008080" size="3">When Jakey tried ice cream on his first birthday, he wasn't a big fan. Fastfoward four years to today and he really likes Drumsticks, popsicles and Dibbs. </font><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#008080" size="3">Baby Girl, however, has enjoyed ice cream since her first taste. She likes vanilla, vanilla with chocolate sauce, strawberry, ice cream sandwiches and has recently added fudgcicles into the mix. </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#008080" size="3">Regardless of who's eating what, it seems like more of it ends up on their hands, hair,faces and clothes than in their tummies. Perhaps it's more enjoyable to eat without caution. Nonetheless, they wear it well. Here's to the next round of frozen goodness.  </font></p>

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My Hidden Talent http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/8950 http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/8950 <p><span style="FONT-SIZE: 9pt"><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3">I have 4 years of experience being a mom and during that time I discovered that I had a hidden talent…acting. </font></span></p> <p><span style="FONT-SIZE: 9pt"><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3">A few examples involving my four year old son. </font></span></p> <p><span style="FONT-SIZE: 9pt"><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3">Jakey: "Mama - come look what I made!"</font></span></p> <p><span style="FONT-SIZE: 9pt"><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3">Me: "Wow...that...is...great. (Referring the giant deposit he made in the porcelin bowl)  </font></span></p> <p><span style="FONT-SIZE: 9pt"><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3">What I really want to say:  “OMG! That's gross and it stinks in here!” </font></span></p> <p><span style="FONT-SIZE: 9pt"><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3">Jakey: “Mama - there's a huge bug in my room.”</font></span></p> <p><span style="FONT-SIZE: 9pt"><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3">Me: Okay, I'll take care of it. (very calm) </font></span></p> <p><span style="FONT-SIZE: 9pt"><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3">What I really want to say  - “ewwww “  </font></span></p> <p><span style="FONT-SIZE: 9pt"><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3">Jakey: Mama – watch this, it’s so funny. (referring to the same part in Shrek that we've seen a million times). </font></span></p> <p><span style="FONT-SIZE: 9pt"><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3">Me: “Ha ha. That's really funny.” (with a smile)  </font></span></p> <p><span style="FONT-SIZE: 9pt"><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3">Inside my head: I hope this DVD melts.</font></span></p> <p><span style="FONT-SIZE: 9pt"><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3">The best, however, is trying not to laugh when Jake constructs a story.  </font></span></p> <p><span style="FONT-SIZE: 9pt"><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3">At one point,  he told me that he had a girlfriend in San Francisco (who was also four) and they had a one month old baby together. Hmm….where is hubby taking them while I’m at work? </font></span></p> <p><span style="FONT-SIZE: 9pt"><font face="Comic Sans MS"><font size="3"><font color="#000080">So, the next time you watch the Oscars, don’t be surprised if you see me (or any other mom) accepting the award for best actress. We’ll have the little people (literally) to thank.</font>  </font></font></span></p> Driving With Freedom http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/8910 http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/8910 <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3">There's a certain freedom that I experience when I drive my car without my kids. It doesn't happen very often, but when it does it feels different. It feels quiet. Sometimes it feels empty, but this morning if felt good. </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3">Hubby took Jakey and Baby Girl to preschool/daycare this morning. As I walked out the door of my house, I only had my purse and computer in hand. I only had to make one trip to the car. I didn't have a baby in my arms, a diaper bag, extra clothes or anything else that I normally might be carrying. </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3">Next, I fastened my seat belt, only one seat belt. I didn't get Baby Girl situated in her car seat and grab for the nearest toy to keep her entertained for the 15 minute car ride. I didn't need to buckle Jake into his booster seat. I also didn't feel him kicking the back of my chair as he often does. He always says he's making music when he kicks my seat. Good answer. </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3">I turned on the radio and it was a station that I wanted to listen to. Not one of Jake's CD's. Although Jake does have an interesting taste in music for a four year old. He's clearly influenced by his dad. His CD mix includes Iron Maiden, Johnny Cash, The Cult, the Dixie Chicks, Rush, Metallica and Justin Timberlake. Okay, maybe I had something to do with Justin Timberlake. </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3">I also feel a little more relaxed. I'm always a cautious driving, but there's just a different feeling when I'm only responsible for my safety as opposed to the two other lives that are so critically important to me. </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3">So, from start to finish, it was almost 30 minutes of quiet, alone time,  responsible for only myself. It certainly felt like a little bit of freedom and it felt good. </font></p> Ice Cream on the Driveway http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/8883 http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/8883 <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3">We just had a whirlwind weekend. We attended two birthday parties, ran several errands, cleaned up the house and I managed to squeeze in a mom's night out to see Sex and the City. Whew. </font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3"></font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3">By Sunday afternoon, the energy level was coming down. Baby Girl was sleeping, hubby was getting his haircut and Jakey and I were outside enjoying the 80 degree weather. It seems as if our days are filled with "hurry up" we need to go work, preschool, grandma's house, the store, birthday parties and so on. But I don't want our lives to be in a constant state of "hurry up". We don't need to be in a rush every time we go somewhere. Just then, the perfect thing happened. The familiar and inviting sound of the ice cream man was heard down the street. Jakey's face lit up like a 1,000 watt light bulb. </font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3"></font> </div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3"></font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3">"Mama - can we get some ice cream?"</font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3"></font> </div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3"></font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3">Normally, at 3PM I would say no, but it was too perfect of an opportunity to pass up. </font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3"></font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3">We went inside, grabbed a couple of dollars and some loose change and greeted the ice cream man at the base of our driveway. We studied his menu and agreed on an ice cream sandwich for me and the equivalent of a fudgcicle for Jake.  We laughed because the ice cream truck was playing Christmas tunes.  Whatever works. </font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3"></font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3">After we paid for our tasty treats, we sat on the driveway eating our ice cream and talking about whatever was on my four year old's mind. He thinks Spiderman is stronger than the Hulk and he thinks it's interesting that birds can fly and poop at the same time. It also didn't take long before his face and hands were covered in a melted, sticky, chocolate mess. </font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3"></font> </div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3"></font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#000080" size="3">Despite leading a busy life with things to do and places to go, I never want to lose sight of spending quiet, unplanned moments...like eating ice cream on the driveway with my son. </font> </div> There. I said it. http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/8854 http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/8854 <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" size="3">Ok, I'm just going to say it and get it out there. I'm prepared for the backlash, disappointment and hate mail, but here we go....(deep breath)</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#ff0000" size="3">I HAVE NEVER SEEN ONE SINGLE EPISODE OF SEX AND THE CITY!</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" size="3">There. I said it. Whew. I feel like it's a dirty little secret that I've been holding onto. With all of this chatter and hype about the upcoming movie release, I feel so out-of-the loop. I will say this, I have seen parts of episodes and I really enjoyed it. Infact, I <em>know</em> it's a show that I would totally love, but I didn't have HBO at the time and have never watched it on TBS. (or whatever station it's on)</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" size="3">My SATC friends have suggested watching the dvds, which I will do and want to do...some day. Perhaps I'll make it my goal by the end of the summer. It could be a good replacement show now that American Idol, The Office and 30 Rock is over. </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" size="3">So, there you have it. My sex secret is revealed. </font></p> It's my birthday....big whoop http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/8829 http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/8829 <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="2">It's not technically my birthday yet. It's actually my birthday eve, but I gotta say, I'm not very enthused about the whole thing. (sigh) Maybe the heat has drained all of my energy,. Perhaps I'm just tired, but whatever the reason, I'm just feeling blah. I used to get excited about my birthday. Here are some of my birthday milestones...</font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="2"></font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="2">6 - because I had to use fingers on both hands to show how old I was </font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="2">11 - because I could no longer use my fingers to indicate my age</font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="2">13 - like, duh, I'm a teenager now</font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="2">16 - of course</font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="2">21 - (hiccup) </font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="2">30 - new decade</font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="2"></font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="2"></font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="2">And now I'm 35. Big whoop. I do have some birthday plans. Hubby and I both took the day off so we could have lunch and see a movie. I know, thrilling, right? But that actually sounds fun to me. We're due for some alone time. I'm also going to treat myself to a new pair of running shoes and some new summertime clothes. I'll probably still look for bargains, but nonetheless, I WILL find something cute and sassy. (no mom jeans) </font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="2"> </font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="2"></font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="2">We still go to a lot of birthday parties. They just usually involve big inflatable jump houses and the guests of honor are under 4. Oh well, it's still a party.</font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="2"> </font></div> <div><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="2">I'm also due for a new driver's license. It expires this time. Although it will confirm that I am infact another year older, I noticed that my weight , ah, isn't quite accurate. I think that's one number that I won't worry about correcting. Happy birthday to me!  </font></div> <div></div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div></div> Garbage Truck Day http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/8807 http://www.sacmomsclub.com/home/Blog/ktja/8807 <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="2">I recently had the pleasure of meeting two moms from this site. After chatting for a bit, exchanging stories about our families, we quickly came to realize that garbage truck day is one of the most sought after days of the week in our households. </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="2">Jakey is four and to say that he "likes" garbage trucks is putting it mildly. He has at least four toy garbage trucks, enjoys watching garbage truck videos on YouTube (yep, YouTube)  and nearly jumps out of his car seat every time we see a garbage truck driving around town. </font></p> <p><font size="2"><font color="#003366"><font face="Comic Sans MS">Friday is Garbage Truck day in our house, so the build up starts on Thursday night. We perform the pre-game ritual of emptying all of our wastebaskets, sister's diaper pail and the recycling basket. Next we head outside to the garbage cans and slowly wheel them to the curb. The familiar sound of our neighbors rolling their cans to the curb is heard throughout the evening. Soon, the street is lined with garbage cans as if they were soldiers standing at attention. </font> <font face="Comic Sans MS">Now we wait. </font></font></font></p> <p><font size="2"><font color="#003366"><font face="Comic Sans MS">The garbage trucks usually find their way to our home at about 7:00AM and Jake's supersonic hearing can identify when the big green rock star is making its way down our street. We usually end up standing outside, jammies, bed head and all, to greet the magnificent monsters as they perform their magic. </font> <font face="Comic Sans MS">Oh, did I mention that my neighbor is usually outside with her two and four year olds also? I wonder how often this scenario is repeated? </font></font></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" color="#003366" size="2"> It's fun to see Jake jump around, wave to the "garbage truck guy" and find delight in something so simple. Then I started to think, hey, this IS pretty cool. I don't have to pack anyone up in the car, it comes right to our house, it's free and predicable. Now if he only came twice a week....</font></p>