Paddy Cake, Paddy Cake, Jaker's Mom

Put Them All Together, They Spell 'MOTHER'

2011-05-09T12:01:00.000-04:00

I remember my mother's prayers and they have always followed me. They have clung to me all my life.

~Abraham Lincoln

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T00:45:00.000-04:00

"The greatest man in history had no servants, yet they called Him Master. He had no degree, yet they called Him Teacher. He had no medicines, yet they called Him Healer. He had no army, yet kings feared Him. He won no miliary battles, yet He conquered the world. He committed no crime, yet they cruified Him. He was burried in a tomb, yet He lives today."

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T20:17:00.000-05:00

I spent the morning with my mom, laughing over Starbucks coffee, the afternoon with 17 of the coolest first graders this side of the Seneca and the evening with my fellas.

Perfect!

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

Forgiveness

2011-02-12T22:28:00.001-05:00

In my life I have made mistakes. I have made poor decisions. I have done or said things that were inappropriate and down right wrong. I am not perfect.

I have tried, with each poor decision, to learn a lesson. Some lessons have been easier to learn then others. I am still trying. I am not perfect.

I have made peace with mistakes I have made and in turn found forgiveness from others. I have owned up to my wrong doings and forgiven myself. Some forgiveness is harder to achieve then others. I am not perfect.

I have forgiven those who have wronged me. In realizing I am not perfect I have learned that others are not perfect either.

These are some of the most beautiful lessons that life has taught me.

"Better than a thousand hollow words, is one word that brings peace." -Buddha

On Hearts and Happiness

2011-02-09T18:17:00.002-05:00

Jakob and I made wax paper hearts today after school. It was so easy, even for me, a totally uncrafty gal. Jakob thought it was totally neat. They turned out beautiful and now decorate all of our windows. They make me happy and help chase away the February Blues.

Earlier today Aaron and I took a trip to WalMart for some groceries. It was a sweet little mid-day date and we laughed at how lame it was that we were calling a trip to WalMart a "mid-day date". It was cold and the wind was whipping around really hard but we were happy in our warm car with our hot cups of coffee.

At the moment Aaron and Jake are snuggling in the family room watching Mario cartoons while I start dinner. My life makes me happy.

Last night at bedtime Jakob told Aaron and I how he was so glad to be alive and that he loved his life.

Me too sweetheart, me too.

Aaron

2011-01-23T15:51:00.003-05:00

You are Truth.

You are Brilliance and Love.

You are Passion.

You are Honestly and Sincerity.

You are Strength.

You are Kindness and Patience.

You are Laughter and Happiness.

Happy 38th Birthday, my Love.

We Can All Make A Difference!

2011-01-14T21:32:00.000-05:00

Attention all Planets of the Solar Federation

2011-01-07T12:27:00.002-05:00

Christmas came and Christmas went. It was lovely.

As lovely as the holidays were, I was so glad to have de-cluttered and de-Christmased my home.

Marching forward into a brand new year with a fresh new start.

We have assumed control. We have assumed control.

We have assumed control.

It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas

2010-12-22T19:46:00.002-05:00

Lights, Lights

And more lights!

My Grandmother's Nativity

Just a couple, three, four of my favorites

A owl in our tree

Star of Wonder!

The Greatest Part of the Season

2010-12-17T17:48:00.001-05:00

Jakob is so excited that Christmas is just a few short days away. It's all he talks about. It's adorable. While I was in the shower, through the closed bathroom door, he told me of his grand plan to wake up on Christmas Eve, sneak out of his room, into the hallway, through the kitchen to the family room in order to catch ol' Saint Nick in the act. He stood there for a solid ten minutes talking...he's six, that's a looooong time. Then when he was finished he paused a moment and said..."Oh no! Do you think Santa HEARD me?"

I love that picture I snapped of him just a bit ago. I wish I could tell you he was watching a sweet Christmas movie but he's playing Mario Super Smashbros. I will tell you though the sweetest thing about it is he is singing Santa Claus is Coming to Town on the top of his lungs, in funny, different voices.

The magic is the greatest part of the season.

This Just In...

2010-12-06T20:11:00.002-05:00

It's Freakin' Freezing!

The Craziness of the Holiday Season

2010-12-06T13:57:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I took Jakob to the mall to see Santa. He was so nervous to see the Big Man that one would have thought he was atop the naughty list, which he is not by any means, but once he saw St. Nick all his fears were gone.

It wasn't until we left the mall and had to make a pit-stop at Starbucks, because ~~I NEEDED a Peppermint Mocha~~ Jakob had to pee, did all that nervous energy come seeping out of his pores. He couldn't even help himself. It was like watching someone shake a bottle of Pepsi and popping the lid.

As for me, I had a jolly good time watching him be so goofy and at times forgetting to use his inside voice. And we laughed and laughed until tears ran down our faces.

Distracted

2010-12-02T20:29:00.001-05:00

Woke up burried in snow. School was called on its account, so we got to stay in our jammies a little bit longer. I spent the better part of 2 hours getting up to the hospital where my mom was having surgery. The hospital is forty five minutes away most days.

I sat with my father and my siblings, happy we were all able to be up there with him and for her. I got to see her in her lovely blue hair cover...blue is definately her color. Told her I loved her, kissed her good-bye and wished her good luck.

Unfortunately I couldn't stay as long as I would have wanted to because Aaron had to be to work and Jake was unexpectedly home from school. So I had to turn around and head back out into the blistery winter day. Two hours later I got home and Aaron went off to work.

Jakob was playing video games but I could tell he was easily distracted. As if someone from outside was whispering his name. Finally he asked to put on his snow gear and head outside. I was so glad for the distraction.

I watched him make a make-shift sledding hill and listened to him giggle in delight. All of a sudden I remembered how it felt, how you'd leave your belly somewhere halfway down your little hill and giggle the rest of the way down. Snow tickles.

I lost myself out there for a little while. Forgot that I was thirty five and laughed like I was six. Three hours passed and I decided it was time to come in for soup. I was so glad for the distraction.

Cold

2010-12-01T14:17:00.000-05:00

The snow hasn't stopped since early this morning. It's that heavy, wet kind of snow. The kind that is hard to shovel. The kind that makes me pray that I have a tube of icey/hot in the medicine cabinet.

The kind of snow that makes you grateful for not having anywhere to go and a fridge full of food.

The kind of snow that makes everything look brand new. Untarnished.

Magic

2010-11-27T17:40:00.000-05:00

Yesterday the wind was relentless. It whipped and it howled and brought with it fridged temperatures. It was toasty inside. I put on a big pot of soup that we warmed ourselves with all day. After cleaning, which seemed to last forever, I went down to the basement, dusted off the Christmas bins and decided it was as good a day as any to start decorating for the holiday. Besides it had been snowing all day. Nothing says Christmas more then the first snow on the day after Thanksgiving.

Jakob was in heaven. Each box he opened the brighter his smile got. I put on the Elvis Christmas cd we have and we rocked it out. We had such a great time shaking our groove thangs and finding sweet spots to showcase our Christmas treasures. Then we shut the lights off and just let the glow of our lighted snowflakes lull us off to sleep, where I am sure there were sugar plums dancing.

EAT HAM!

2010-11-25T21:38:00.001-05:00

And we did...

We also had one of these guys!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-24T17:35:00.001-05:00

There has been a lot going on in my neck of the woods. Some good, some bad, most AWESOME!

I am so thankful for change, personal growth and confidence.

I am so thankful for a beautiful and healthy family.

I am so thankful that my husband rocks his job and finally has a sense of security.

I am so thankful that my son loves school and is excelling.

I am so thankful for friends who unconditionally love and support.

I am so thankful for this little spot on the internet.

I am so thankful!

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

2010-11-10T12:34:00.001-05:00

RUN!

2010-11-08T10:03:00.000-05:00

Don't walk over to see what NieNie has going on!

http://nienie-reviews.blogspot.com/2010/11/tamron-lens-review.

Date Night

2010-11-02T15:41:00.002-04:00

Money has been seriously tight here in our household. We have enough to pay the bills but nothing left over for fun. We make our own fun but it's good for everyone to get out once in awhile and I certainly cannot tell you how long it has been since Aaron and I have been out without Jakob. It's been THAT long.

If there is one person in our life who understands the importance of all of the above it is Jonah, my brother-in-law, who suprised us last week when he called from Nevada asking if Aaron and I would like a night out on the town, on him, in the coolest way imaginable! Yesterday the mailman delivered our night out on the town in the form of two tickets to the Dave Matthews Band concert at the HSBA Arena this evening!

We are so appreciative of Jonah's generosity. He explains it this way...when he was going through medical school and needed companionship, free food, a place to crash, free laundry services and so on Aaron and I always gave it to him...whenever or whatever he needed. I miss the days of Jonah showing up to do laundry and leaving a week later...that's A LOT of laundry folks. Now he is all the way across the country and we miss him all the time.

Thank you Jonah for being you!

2010-10-31T11:36:00.000-04:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Why I Love October

2010-10-30T21:03:00.000-04:00

Reason #4:

MASKS!

Halloween Week

2010-10-27T23:44:00.003-04:00

We are half way to Halloween and it's everywhere. I love it! The other day Aaron and I watched John Carpenter's Halloween. We watched it in the middle of the day, I've never claimed to be brave. But let me tell you, even in the middle of the day, that movie is Scarey...with a capital S!

We sprung Jakob out of school a touch early today to take a ride out to Kelkenberg. I wanted Jakob to be able to show Aaron all the animals that he loves so much. Needless to say we spend A LOT of time in front of the turkeys. While we were there we picked out one last humongous pumpkin to complete our collection for the year. We carved those suckers up right after Karate class!

We had a lot of fun and yet again Jakob somehow found the magic pumpkin...he found a whole $1.12 of quarters, nickles, dimes and pennies! I don't know how he does it every year! He is almost completely able to wield his pumpkin carver all by himself...almost.

Tomorrow we have to stuff goodie bags for his party at school on Friday and make a few quick size adjustments to his costume...wait until you see! Once Friday rolls around it's All Halloween, All The Time. I don't know about you but man oh man I am excited!!

Why I Love October

2010-10-24T22:31:00.000-04:00

Reason #15:

Halloween classics that can only be found on YouTube, like The Skeleton Dance (1929).

A Test

2010-10-23T00:07:00.001-04:00

All week I have felt like everything I know and feel has been tested. My patience. My sanity. My faith.

I have been a screaming mess of a mother all week, I am sad to report. Each little whine. Every dropped crumb. It has been enough to almost push me to my brink. I feel horrible. I know that every mother goes through periods like this, but the way I am feeling is really eating at me. My patience...tested.

On Wednesday night Aaron dropped a bomb on me. To most couples this would probably not even be a second thought. For us, it was a bomb. I was angry that he would expect of me what he was but even more hurt that he would suggest it. He reassured me everything would be fine and it is. My sanity...tested.

Tonight, I sit here knowing in my heart that everything is fine. Hoping that my head will soon catch up. Wishing I could just put everything I think I know and feel in His hands and let go. My faith...tested.

Why I Love October

2010-10-19T20:02:00.001-04:00

Reason #12:

GOURDS!
They are fun, unique, beautiful, funny lookin', colorful and just scream FALL!

Tradition

2010-10-18T13:46:00.000-04:00

Last week the weather leading up to the weekend was wet, cold and dreary. I wished on every star in the sky that the weekend would be lovely, and it was! My mom and I took Jakob out to Kelkenberg Farm. Something that is becoming yet another wonderful tradition. In the past Aaron has gone with us but with his work schedule so crazy he never has a weekend off and my mom has been wanting to go for a ride out to the country since the leaves have started changing. Saturday did NOT disappoint.

We got lost in the Hay Maze, raced ducks, played with the barn animals, took a hayride out to the pumpkin patch to pick our beauties, we drank fresh cider, rode ponies, milked a goat, gushed over all the fresh farm produce and picked out some sweets to bring home...although someone got into the cookies in the car.

The whole ride home Jakob told of us his plan to someday buy the Kelkenberg Farm and have his whole family live on his land and tend to his animals and share in its plenty. Sounds like a good idea to me son.

Why I Love October

2010-10-13T10:18:00.002-04:00

Reason #2:
Breast Cancer Awareness Month

About 2 years ago Aaron's aunt was diagnosed with breast cancer. Aunt Andrea is one of the sweetest women you could ever hope to meet and we were all devestated when we learned she was ill. I am beyond happy to report that these days Aunt Andy doing well and living life! We love you Aunt Andy!!!

Enchanted Forest

2010-10-12T11:19:00.001-04:00

On Sunday evening we loaded Lynne's SUV with kids and headed up to Java, NY for our annual hike through the Enchanted Forest. The kids love the face painting, craft making, pumpkin painting but most of all they love the hike we take through the forest under the cover of darkness with only Jack-O-Lanterns lighting our way.

By the time we are headed home everyone is spent, with sleeping children in the backseat and two very tired mama's trying to stay awake on the dark country roads which lead us home.

Why I Love October

2010-10-09T11:53:00.003-04:00

Reason 23:

Spookey photo editing!

Go Ahead, Make My Day

2010-10-08T10:37:00.000-04:00

Last week I participated in a photo-challenge on Aiming Low. I don't really take myself too seriously when it comes to photography, even though it has been a passion of mine for years, I just like taking pictures.

The women who blog at Aiming Low are smart, funny, creative, sexy...complete packages and having them chose MY photo out of so many wonderful shots has made my day!

I'm looking forward to this weeks challenge...FLARE! My goal this week is to get out there with my camera and get some shots of NATURAL flare! It is the perfect time of year for this challenge and I'm super duper excited to see what I can come up with and to see other photographer's entries.

If you have a camera and a love of photography I urge you to play along!

God Bless Our Love

2010-10-05T00:11:00.001-04:00

Happy 8th Anniversary Aaron. I love you.

A Love Letter

2010-10-04T23:55:00.004-04:00

Dear Aaron,

Tonight is the eve of our 8th Wedding Anniversary. You got called to work an overnight after already working your scheduled eight hour shift. I'm totally bummed out. I don't even think it's the fact that you are away from me on the night before our anniversary...it's just the fact that you are away from me.

I appreciate so very much how hard you work for our family. The fact that your job is hard, yet you ROCK IT, and you are always pushing yourself to do better. Learn more. Be there.

I am so very proud of you.

I miss you when you are gone and that is such I good thing. I couldn't imagine being in a relationship where I didn't miss my parnter if he wasn't right at my side. Which is totally where I wish we could be twenty-four seven. But I know that isn't a reality. Yet even when we are apart and I am missing you like crazy, you are always right at my side.

So many words pop into my head when I think of the last eight years.

Strong. Tested. Unbreakable. Fragile. Happiness. Love. Blessed. Dramatic. Passionate. Joy. Patience.

I wouldn't change a single moment of the last eight years. Each of those moments are what brought us to today and today is pretty damn fantastic! I love you! Happy Anniversary!!!

From New York to the stars...

Why I Love October

2010-10-04T00:29:00.002-04:00

Reason 31:

Today is the 4th of October and we've already celebrated two birthdays! I love celebrating the people that I love! Before the month is through we have more birthdays and an anniversary!!!

Happy October

2010-10-01T18:45:00.001-04:00

Today marks the start of my absolute favorite month of the year! I'm so excited!!

You know who else is excited?

THIS GUY!

Fashion Vs. Comfort

2010-09-30T12:23:00.000-04:00

Whoever said you can't have it all hasn't met these Dutch beauties!

Every year I have gone out and bought a pair of fake Uggs before the harsh winter hits and every year I regret my decision. This year will be different! This year my Gretel Crocs will keep my footsies warm and dry! Bring on the snow and fridged temperatures!

I'm ready!

Unconditional

2010-09-28T20:38:00.001-04:00

Today is my birthday. It's been a very good day but I am exhausted so I will turn today's blog post over to one of my oldests friends, Secret Agent Mama.

I should probably preface this with the fact that many people will be all "Whiskey-Tango-Foxtrot" when and if they see this post, on this blog, for you, from me. But, I don't give a damn. I don't think you do either.

We have both had plenty of stabs at each others' backs over the years. We have both made mistakes in our long, winding road of friendship, complete with obstacles, potholes, rest-stops, and accidents along the way. We have both said and/or done things that we wish we could take back and do-over (oh, do we ever.)

That's the way life goes.

There is no relationship that's just smooth sailing and worry free.

That much? I know.

It's when you realize the mistakes and correct them. It's when you find and allow forgiveness that you can grow. It's when you realize that you aren't always right and can admit it no matter how hard or ugly it is to do so. It's when you allow yourself to be yourself that you can really shine---in your own right. That's friendship. That's sisterhood. That's unconditional love.

++++

I'm sitting at your parent's dining room table. There are ten (maybe nine, or maybe twelve, who knows?) candles on your cake. I'm wearing this plaid, high neck, button up shirt with a corduroy vest and matching skirt. My hair is kind of *short, and I think maybe yours was, too. That was probably the style that year.

You're surrounded by friends. And, I was one of them.

In unison we sing, "Happy Birthday, Dear Jodi. Happy Birthday to yoooooooooooooooou!"

Surround yourself with your friends. Surround yourself with a sisterhood, a true sisterhood. Surround yourself with people who will love you unconditionally. And, I will be one of them.

*We have always chased each other with hairstyles. I've pretty much decided that I won't cut mine, though. However, this can change next week. Especially if you cut yours! (And vice-versa, eh?)

**Post and Photo by S.A.M.

Sick Day

2010-09-27T12:26:00.000-04:00

Cold season is upon us and has struck our household. Jakob has been fighting a stuffy head and cough all weekend. Last night he got absolutely no sleep. When the alarm went off this morning and he was finally sound asleep I didn't have the heart to wake him.

First sick day of the year. He has school pictures this week so I want him to get better before then. So I am pumping the fluids, hot tea and chicken noodle soup. I bought the soft tissues although he prefers hankies. And we are chillin' on the couch under blankets watching some of our seasonal favorites.

At My Core

2010-09-22T11:40:00.001-04:00

This morning I couldn't peel myself off the sofa. I sat around knowing full well that I had a long list of things to do before we welcome an old friend and his girlfriend for dinner. I knew I had to get up and get the meatballs cooking and the cake in the oven, yet I sat...and sat. I couldn't put the computer down. I was finding inspiration with every new click.

I have recently found a new blogger to add to my blog roll. Nici blogs at dig this chick and she is lovely. She takes beautiful photographs and her words dance while telling her story. Today, in her Hump Day Nuggets post, Nici said this:

"We are born without judgement and with trust. We learn to assess situations and form opinions and while those are essential skills, I think we eventually (especially in our thirties when we learn we know nothing and mortality is real) try like hell to revert and practice that child-like wonder and appreciation for a hug, a cool bug, a perfectly prepared bowl of oatmeal, a favorite song on the radio."

And her words smacked me right between the eyes! I have been feeling this exact statement for sometime now and finally seeing it through someone else's eyes (or words) reaffirmed in me that I'm not alone in my beliefs. I have been surrounded by negative, rudeness and judgment for so long that I almost got lost in it. It almost swallowed me whole. But at my core I know who I am, how I want to live and what I want to pass along to my son. I want him to laugh and be happy for others without prejudices. I want him to know how beautiful life is and how lucky we are to live it. I want him to know that he can make anything happen, because he can. We all can.

I also know that I don't live in a fairy tale world and that from time to time people will pass their judgment and negative onto others, trying to stomp out any last bit of happiness one has left but I will do my best to protect myself and those that I hold dear from that ugly monster.

It is in those times that I find it easiest to appreciate a hug, a cool bug, a perfectly prepared bowl of oatmeal, a favorite song on the radio.

Tuesday Night Book Club

2010-09-21T22:22:00.001-04:00

About ten years ago, just before I met Aaron, I used to hang out in a coffee house near the University that my dear friend Jim owned. Tuesday Night Beer Club was born one cold January Tuesday, affectionately nic-named TNBC, when we needed something stronger then a large Columbian coffee to warm our bones.

Flash forward ten years and TNBC has a whole new meaning. Every night before bed Jakob picks a book and we read it together. I help him with the words that he doesn't know and in turn he helps me with the words I don't know, wink. I've decided to take Tuesday nights to feature the book we shared, bringing to life "Tuesday Night Book Club".

Tonight he picked from his new Scholastic Book Order that came in today.

Zero Is The Leaves On The Tree by Betsy Franco is a beautiful book which teaches the important concept of the number zero. With breathtaking illustrations by Shino Arichara this book will inspire children to find zero everywhere in the world around them. Both Jakob and I loved this book which lead to some stimulating conversation about math and numbers! Win!

Be sure to tune in next Tuesday!

Where Is Juan Valdez When You Need Him?

2010-09-20T09:58:00.001-04:00

We woke up this morning to frost on the front lawn. The alarm went off and when my feet touched the cold hardwood floor I jumped right back into bed! Jakob started freaking out that he was going to be late to school which I knew wasn't going to happen but I got up anyways just because I didn't want him getting all worked up, I'm a good mom like that.

I shuffled my way into the kitchen, I was in serious need of coffee. So with sleep in my eyes I filled the coffee maker with water, grabbed a filter and then added the coffee....wait......no coffee?!......are we SERIOUSLY out of coffee?!? The coldest morning so far and I wouldn't have a hot cup of coffee to keep my hands warm while waiting at the bus stop with Jakob? OMG! I thought about texting one of my neighbors but none of them drink coffee...it's like I'm surrounded by Mormons...which there is absolutely nothing wrong with Mormons (Hi Steph, Hi Cjane) except that they don't drink coffee.

I put Jakob on the bus and contemplated going back to bed. I opened my laptop and started chatting. My girlfriend told me to stop being lazy, run up to Tim Horton's and get some coffee. So, with my hair in a sloppy bun on the top of my head, my pink Arizona hoodie and my Sock Monkey slippers I rolled through the Tim Horton's drive-thru. I was a vision.

All this before 9 a.m. It's going to be a long day.

Everything's Gonna Be Fine, Fine, Fine

2010-09-17T20:46:00.003-04:00

On Blogging

2010-09-15T21:49:00.001-04:00

I was recently reading Momo's blog. She has been struggling with the idea of quitting. I don't think she should. She is brilliant, just like many of the other bloggers I enjoy. I know she has a huge support group ready to rally around her, not wanting to see her go, but ultimately the decision is hers.

There are so many wonderful blogs out there just wizzing around the internets. Mommy blogs, Daddy blogs, Parenting blogs, Sports blogs, Photography blogs and so on. I've seen the good of the blog-o-sphere, I have seen support given, donations made, love shared, broken souls soothed.

I have cried rivers of tears for strangers. I have had my heart nearly explode with happiness for strangers. I have prayed for the well-being of strangers. I have learned beautiful life lessons from strangers. All because of this wonderful thing called blogging. And I believe I am a better person for it.

I started my blog a few years back. I'm not an everyday blogger, I don't have a huge following, I don't advertise myself on my facebook or other sites. I blog for my family and friends both near and far who care to follow our life. I blog knowing that others can read my words and see my photographs. I blog to reconnect with friends and make new ones. I blog to keep record of the crazy goings on in my day to day life. I blog to record life for my son. But ultimately I blog for myself.

I've never asked anyone to read my blog. I've never asked anyone not to read my blog.

There are always those who will spew their negitive. Those who want nothing to do with your day to day real life but can't wait to google and judge. I feel sorry for people like that but there isn't anything I can do to change them. All I can do is continue being me.

Evening Snack

2010-09-15T11:11:00.000-04:00

Jakob gets out of school at 3:30 and is usually starving so I wind up making dinner earlier then usual. So we eat around 4:30, at the latest 5 o'clock which means by early evening Jakob is asking for something to eat. So last night when he got that hungry look in his eye I asked him what he wanted.

STICKY BUNS!

Who doesn't love a nice hot sticky bun right out of the oven on a cool fall night? I know I do so I obliged and everyone was happy!

Jumping For Joy

2010-09-13T22:32:00.002-04:00

It has been almost three long weeks since I have had internet access. Phew...that's a long time! I felt lost, out of the loop, but now I am back!

So much has happened. Fall has arrived with its cooler weather and shorter days. School has started. My first grader is loving school so far and we couldn't be happier.

Aaron is working like a mad man. Tons of overtime, tons of progress with the guys in the house.

I am still unemployed and still waiting for my unemployment hearing. It is now just a matter of me refusing to let it go which has it's good and bad. I feel like I am being screwed over my previous employers insecurity and after all the crap I did for her over the last four years I've decided to dig in my heals and be stubborn. On the other hand money is tight but we manage. I love being able to be home and put Jakob on the bus, without rushing in the morning. Taking time to make sure he eats a good breakfast, brush his teeth and have all his things in his bookbag. I love being able to pick him up in the afternoon, getting homework done and making dinner while he reads me his latest book from the liabrary.

It's all about attitude and chosing joy.

Long Sleeves

2010-08-27T01:43:00.001-04:00

We touched down in Buffalo early Monday morning to fall like temperatures. It was just the welcome I had hoped for. Fall is right around the corner. The kids start back to school the Tuesday after Labor Day. It's here man, it's here!

Tonight I helped my mom finish the blanket she started for my new niece. It was fun to sit with her, talking, laughing and creating at the same time. After dinner she and I decided it was time to take a trip to Yankee Candle to sniff all the new Fall scents. I was in heaven.

Tomorrow I am taking Jakob school supply shopping, one of my most favorite memories of my childhood, even though I was never that A+ student. One week left before I kiss his face all up and send him off to First Grade after one of the most amazing summers of my life and hopefully his too.

Fall brings change, Fall brings more and for that I am very excited!

Best/Worst

2010-08-19T16:19:00.000-04:00

At home we play a game at the dinner table everynight when we sit down as a family for dinner. We go around the table and each of us tell what the best part and worst part of our day was. Last night when we sat down to dinner with the family it was hard for me to pin point the best part of my day.

Was it when we beached the boat and jumped into the cold cold waters of Lake Tahoe, which was something none of us had ever done before? Was it burrying Jakob in the sand? Or when Aaron and I pushed the boat back into the lake and jumped aboard? Was it listening to Grandma tell Jakob spooky stories? Or when Aaron and I took Jonah's truck into town, just the two of us, for some groceries?

See what I mean? Hard to pin-point the best part of my day. But I can assure you...there wasn't a worst!

Sure Thing

2010-08-18T02:32:00.002-04:00

If there is one thing I am certain of it is us and the love we have for one another!

Beauty Is All Around

2010-08-17T00:31:00.000-04:00

We made it to Tahoe Saturday night. We took a cab from the Reno airport to our house in the Tahoe Keys. Luckily for us we had a wonderful old driver, Jerry, who stopped at his favorite fishing location so we could get out to take a look at the stars against the black black Tahoe sky.

Jakob caught his second wind when we got to the house and we all wound up in the hot tub at midnight.

Woke up bright and early Sunday morning and hit the beach. With family and wonderful friends we had a blast. Jakob's favorite was throwing the ball out far into the water to watch Lucy retrieve it.

Came home to a fantastic dinner...surf & turf.

Took the boat out to Emerald Bay this morning...the beauty here is heavenly. I'm in love with the mountains.

It is only Monday, we still have 5 days to soak it all in. The only draw back was running into a Black Widow yesterday in the kitchen while making dinner with Lisa and Jonah. I killed it, being the only one with shoes on, and Jonah swore us to not tell anyone so no one panicked. Tonight he spilled the beans and Aaron and his mom are freaking out. It's kind of funny. Aaron wants to sleep with the light on...I don't think so buddy!

Ready For Sleep

2010-08-10T00:21:00.000-04:00

Summer 2009

Since Jakob was a baby we've had pretty much the same bedtime routine. Some scoff at it, others are in a similar boat, we don't mind it one bit.

I still lay down with him, we talk about our day, we read a book, we say our prayers and then he rubs my thumb nail with his thumb. He started doing that when he was just a little babe and would nurse. I love that this is how he goes to sleep.

Tonight as I laid there with him I was thinking to myself how I absolutely love this time with him and then he rolled over and told me that this was his favorite time of the day with me. My heart exploded. I kissed his forehead, he rolled over and was off to dreamland.

These days are coming to an end. He is needing me less and less because he is after all a big boy now. It makes me sad but it also reinforces that we are doing our job as parents. But I'll take as many as these nights as I can get because before long they will be but a sweet memory.

To Tahoe We Go

2010-07-31T13:16:00.002-04:00

Lake Tahoe 2009
Originally uploaded by Jodi_S

Two weeks from today we will be on a plane headed towards heaven.

Have you been to Tahoe? I truely think that Lake Tahoe is what heaven must be like.

We are looking forward to being with family, seeing old friends and meeting new ones.

We are excited to go back and take in the beauty all over again, this time with my new camera!

We deseperately need the relaxation and the laughs that we will have. The fresh air, the peace, away from the real life troubles.

We will leave all the "bumps" at home. Smooth sailing ahead!

Full

2010-07-27T00:41:00.001-04:00

My weekend has been full. My home has been full. My time has been full. My heart has been full.

Aaron's sister Laura was in town from Arizona. She brought her kids, Ryan and Megan, along for the visit. It was wonderful. Jakob was beyond happy to have his cousins at his house...for two whole days!

We reunited with family and friends that we haven't seen since Terri's funeral, a much more stressful and somber time. This time around we howled with laughter.

And time was spent with Great Great Grandma M. She is ninety eight years old and captivated the children and me with her stories.

Full.

Grainey

2010-07-20T11:42:00.000-04:00

I am in the same clothes that I wore yesterday. Fell asleep in them actually.

My hair is a knotted mess.

My house needs a good cleanin' and the garbage bag laying on the kitchen floor next to me smells like litter and it's totally killing my morning coffee vibe.

One sec...

...much better. Garbage bag out.

Aaron has been working mad overtime. We lay low due to lack of funds. My former employer is fighting my unemployment claim but that is another post for another day.

I have bills that are due but a fridge full of food.

Things are a little rough right now but will turn around I'm sure. But with everything going on around us we are still happy, still smiling, still standing.

We laugh from the deepest part of our bellies and love from the deepest part of our hearts.

We live.

Spontaneous

2010-07-18T23:38:00.001-04:00

Last evening my cousin Laurie called me and asked if I wanted to go with her to Hamburg Beach to watch the sunset and take some photos. Hamburg Beach is only open to residents of Hamburg and seeing as though Laurie is a resident I accepted her invitation. I hadn't been to Hamburg Beach since being a teenage girl. We would park on side streets and wait for the sun to go down completely before sneaking onto the beach. Yesterday I was there "legally" and able to enjoy the sunset.

We picked up my cousin Jim's boy on the way and what fun he and Jakob had. The giggles, the screams, the squeals against the crash of the waves was music to my ears. They got their shorts all good and wet. Sand stuck to their bottoms.

Once the sun went down we all agreed that a perfect capper on a perfect evening would be ice cream cones from Tony's. So, with the boys in their underwear we wandered in ten minutes before closing time. We ate our cones on the old wooden deck out back and watched the go-carts wizz around all the corners next door.

We got back to Laurie's house to pick up our car and with a grin as wide as I don't know what Jakob exclaimed "THANK YOU AUNT LAURIE! THAT WAS SO MUCH FUN! WE LOVE YOU!!!"

"THANK YOU AUNT LAURIE! THAT WAS SO MUCH FUN! WE LOVE YOU!!!"

Yesterday

2010-07-15T13:30:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I:

Nursed a bee sting.

Took an insult from my sister 3 years my junior.

Kissed a sweet baby.

Laughed with my cousin who practically grew up in my house but now lives far away.

Took a family photo in a booth.

Ate terrible pizza but kicked serious butt in ski ball.

Found out a very old and close friend is becoming a father.

Now that's what I call a good day.

Summertime and the Living's Easy

2010-07-14T11:47:00.002-04:00

One of these mornings you're gonna rise, rise up singing.
Your gonna spread yours wings child and take, take to the sky.
Lord, the sky.

Shadows

2010-07-01T21:06:00.000-04:00

Jakob and my mother decided that tonight was a good night for a sleep over. Aaron works late. It's just me, the cat and our shadows in the house at the moment. It's quiet and comfy and the sun set from my front window is breathtaking.

I spent a majority of the day at my sisters new house waiting on the carpet guys and going back at 8am tomorrow so they can finish while my sister is working. I haven't been up that early since losing my job...I hope I'm not late.

My brother and his wife close on their new house tomorrow. Hopefully the holiday weekend will not be all about getting them moved in, although I really don't mind. It gives me an excuse to see the babies and rub pregnant bellies.

Babies...I'm thinking I want one more. Aaron and I talked about it the other night and we are giving ourselves until summer's end to decide. It's easy to sit on the couch and think another baby would be awesome. I mean...it would be awesome. But how awesome are diapers and formula and 2 a.m. feedings? Pretty awesome I guess. I was convinced after Jakob that we were finished having kids, what did I know?

All I know is that I've got a lot of time on my hands and a whole lot of love left to give.

Summer Vacation

2010-06-27T12:27:00.000-04:00

I lost my job two weeks ago, perhaps a blessing in disguise.

We have been very busy with afternoon swims, birthday parties, photo shoots, backyard bon fires, Celebration Days complete with spectacular fireworks shows, grilling and a whole lotta love.

I hope you are enjoying your summer as much as we are so far!

Magic

2010-06-22T13:31:00.002-04:00

From the tips of his hair to the soles of his feet.

The Best of the Best

2010-06-20T13:58:00.001-04:00

Happy Father's Day to two of the world's most wonderful dads on the planet!

We love you so very much!

Soul Mates

2010-06-10T14:37:00.000-04:00

There is something to be said for the relationship between a grandfather and his first grandchild. Of course they love each and every grandchild that comes along afterwords fiercely, but there is something about that very first one...

Lucky for Jakob...he is the one. I don't think anyone beamed harder then my father when that boy blew out all six candles on his birthday cake yesterday!

Happy 6th Birthday Big Boy!

2010-06-09T13:03:00.001-04:00

We love you so very much!

A Birth Story

2010-06-08T14:37:00.002-04:00

I realized just today that I have never shared Jakob's birth story here on this blog which is pretty much dedicated to him. Being that today is the six year anniversary of the day I was admitted into the hospital I thought I would share.

On June 8, 2004 I went to my scheduled appointment with Dr. B. for a routine check-up. The check-up was just like all the others leading up to this point and with 5 ½ weeks to go I knew it wouldn’t be my last. When Dr. B. finished the exam he looked me right in the eye and said “so, what do you think about having this baby today?” TODAY?!?! But, but, but….I still have 5 ½ weeks to go and we just moved into our house this past weekend and the baby’s room isn’t ready and there are boxes everywhere and TODAY!?!?!

As Aaron and I walked to the car parked in the ramp his words echoed through my head. My blood pressure was dangerously high and I was spilling a lot of protein and that we were having a baby today. I called my mom. When she answered I started bawling. She couldn’t understand a word I was saying so I handed the phone to Aaron, he explained the situation and that we were on our way home to pack a bag and then heading to the hospital.

My mom met up with us at the hospital. They had me hooked up to drips and machines that beeped. My water had been broken and now it was just a matter of waiting.

I labored all day, all night. My epidural wore off twice and after the second time the anesthesiologist was sleeping and didn’t return to “top me off”. They had me laying on my left side to try to bring down my blood pressure.

My mom stayed through the night with Aaron and I. They fed me ice chips and kept a cool wash cloth on my forehead. X-files was on the television and every time Aaron left the room my mom would ask if she could change it. The t.v. was the least of my concern; this game went on most of the night.

I fell asleep and awoke to the most incredible pain I’ve ever felt in my life. I turned over to face Aaron and told him to go get a nurse, quick! The nurse came in and after being stuck at a 4 forever I was finally ready…she called Dr. B. and was instructed to have me start pushing. Finally, after what seemed forever, Dr. B. arrive just in time to catch my tiny, squirmy little boy.

JAKOB WAS HERE! Born 5 ½ weeks early on June 9^th at 6:01 am, he was healthy and beautiful and pink and screaming and wonderful.

Birthday Interview

2010-06-06T12:30:00.000-04:00

Good morning Jakob.

Good morning to you Mama.

So, in 3 days you will be 6 years old.

How wonderful!

What has been your favorite thing about being 5?

Going to school.

Nice. What do you think you will love about being 6?

A lot of things, 1st grade, lots of toys. How did I remember that first grade was next?

Because you are smart.

Ohhhhhhhhh.

Are you look forward to your birthday party?

Yep, it sounds exciting! I hope I get lots of Transformers.

Okay, I know you want to get back to your Sonic game. What is the one wish you have for your sixth birthday?

I'm not telling you, it's my secret.

Fair enough. I love you.

I love you too!

la cuisine

2010-06-03T10:34:00.000-04:00

The kitchen.

My most favorite room in the house.

It is where we gather as a family to share stories of our day, feelings, meals and love.

It is where hard work is displayed.

It is where we are comfortable.

Recap

2010-06-01T14:37:00.001-04:00

Memorial Day Weekend was full of family, friends and fun! Most of it was spent wet, sticky and laughing.

Boy, you really don't realize how much you've missed the fantastic weather until you are right smack dab in the middle of it!

Family members that are usually a headache are particularly pleasant... three day weekends have such magical powers!

The cool evenings around the backyard bonfire and dozing off to the smell of sun screen on Jakob.

Delicious.

Rainy Friday Night Pick Me Up

2010-05-26T09:48:00.000-04:00

This year my neighbor and I have really taken to gardening. We have some massive rocks mingling with all of the plants in the garden. We picked the 3 rocks we could carry, representing her two kids and Jakob, and set the children to the task of painting them. They turned out awesome and the kids had a ball!

Did You Know that the Birds Start Chirping at 4 a.m.?

2010-05-22T11:07:00.001-04:00

I think one of the most wonderful sounds is that of birds chirping, especially after a long winter. Their sweet sweet song is music to my ears every March. It means Spring and that our feathered friends have returned. But at four in the morning, after a full day of zillions of kids running around in the yard, a surprise visit from an old friend that lasted WAY later then anticipated and when I am just settling into bed...not so much. And why is it on the one night a year that I stay up to a ridiculous hour Jakob decides to get up five minutes after I've just laid down? Murphy's Law?

Thank God for the rain today. It means inside, cartoons, quiet play time in one's own bedroom. It means cool breezes, delicious naps and maybe a quick trip to Family Video. It means comfy clothes ALL day. Mmmmmmmm, I love me some rain.

The upcoming week brings with it much warmer temperatures. It brings returning to work after having off since Wednesday. It brings uncertainty and excitement. It brings outside play until dark, a zillion kids running and laughing in the yard. It brings chirping birds at four in the morning.

Music to my ears.

Tough Nut to Crack

2010-05-17T11:35:00.004-04:00

On Friday afternoon I did my first "real" photo shoot with my new camera. By "real" I mean it wasn't Jakob who I torture constantly with my camera in his face...which I have done even before owning a DSLR. I think I've worn him out.

My mother's best friend, Aunt Shirley, had her 17 month old granddaughter in town for the week from Pennsylvania and asked me to come over and take some shots of sweet Emily. She warned me, of course, that Emily is a tough nut...very rarely does she give her smiles out freely and boy, oh boy did she make me work for it! The tough ones are always my favorite though. I pulled out all of my old portrait studio tricks. "Blow the Monkey", "I'm gonna get'cha", I even let her see herself on the camera and all I got was a lot of this:

Which is still adorable but her grandmother wanted a smile! Then I thought about my niece, who is another tough nut to crack and smelling her stinky feet and over-reacting is always a winner. So I tried it and low and behold...I got her!

And by the time I left, Emily and I were best friends and my Aunt Shirley was thrilled!

See ya next visit kiddo!

Bumps

2010-05-14T09:49:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was not a good day. The meat of the story I cannot get into. I try so hard to keep it separate from all of the beauty in every other aspect of my life but the constant heaviness of it all can take its toll. Yesterday it almost broke me.

But I have faith. I know something better is coming. I need to just hold on and remain true to myself and what I believe to be right. I need to not allow the negativity to seep in and infect all of the good surrounding me.

My mind rushes to my family and then my friends and you all make me smile, you all make my life brighter whether you know it or not.

Life is good, the bumps make me appreciate that.

For the Love of Veggies

2010-05-12T09:19:00.001-04:00

A few weeks ago my baby sister came up with this brain child. She whipped it up for her and her guy and neither of them could stop talking about it. So, I asked for the recipe and made it a day or two later...OMG VEGGIE LOVE!

After I threw this picture up on my Flickr a friend of mine instant messaged me "MUST.HAVE.NOW!"

Roasted Veggie Sandwich

1 Cibatta bread, slice in half length wise

Roast Breaded Eggplant, spread out eggplant on a greased cookie sheet. Drizzle with Olive Oil . Season with garlic powder, black pepper, onion powder and crushed basil. Roast until lightly browned.

Saute sliced purple onion (until soft & translucent), 1 can of unmarinated artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers.

Place bottom half of bread on a lined cookie sheet and begin to build. Place eggplant layer on bottom, layer sauteed veggie goodness on top. Finally, crumble goat cheese over top.

Place top of bread next to bottom on cookie sheet. Bake in a 350 degree oven until cheese softens slightly.

Remove to platter, slice and ENJOY!

Never Alone

2010-05-11T15:13:00.003-04:00

I went crazy this morning. Like, really, like lost my shit, had to leave work crazy.

After a week and a half of whatever flu/cold thing-a-ma-gigg that has swept through this house, twice; the house being a mess, complete with dishes stacked in the sink and crumbs in the carpet; to clean laundry thrown about everywhere coupled with a stressful work situation, friends in the hospital, the constant beckoning from Jakob..."mom, I'm thirsty", "I'M DONE!" or "but I WANT to play the Xbox before school", I went completely bat shit crazy this morning.

I fought with Aaron on the phone, not trusting his word and throwing about accusations like it's my job. I had to pull over on the side of the road because I couldn't see because I was sobbing. Past guilts, past angry feelings, past hurts set in. I was a mess. Wallowing and whining about how I never have ME time, how I work my fingers to the bone outside AND inside my home.

Aaron came home, he had gone to the park to clear his head. We talked. I felt better. He left for work. I sat down on the couch, in the quiet of my living room, all by myself and opened this picture I had been tweeking and thought about how much I really don't like being alone. "Me Time" is for the birds, and I miss mine when they aren't around.

A Whole New World

2010-05-10T11:25:00.001-04:00

Photography has always been a deep love of mine. There is something about capturing an image, a moment in time, that you wish would last forever...and with a photograph, it can!

I've always been the one with my face behind the camera, by choice. I have taken photos as a hobby since I was a little girl. I have managed a professional photography studio. I have taken portraits for friends. I have disc after disc with hundreds of pictures.

I have used many different cameras over the years. My camera(s) have been trusted friends, always within reach. I have been pining for a DSLR for awhile now, wishing on stars. Aaron has known this for a long time. So, this year after we had our taxes done we talked and my wish came true.

I'm going to be honest and tell you that for the first 48 hours, I didn't touch the camera. I didn't charge up her battery, I didn't thumb through the manual...what I did was get a whole lot of stage fright. Once that passed and with the help of a gifted photog friend I gave into my fears and started clicking...

...and I haven't stopped!

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T14:16:00.001-04:00

May you be surrounded by those you love,

today and everyday!

Happy Mother's Day!

xoxo

Thoughts Arrive Like Butterflies

2010-05-08T22:13:00.001-04:00

I decided to take a short cut to a familiar place. I was by myself and the windows were down. Pearl Jam was on the radio and the curvature of the road felt good.

I rounded the corner and drove passed the Clinton Street Learn to Fly, slowing down as I came to the stop light. I was suddenly aware of how my mouth tasted of iced coffee and cigarettes. I wished for a piece of gum. I took another drag and licked my lips. My mind drifting.

The light turned green and I began to go. Out of no where the skies opened up and I was driving through a sun shower, all for you. Focused, I pulled down my sunglasses and smiled.

Everything is as it should be.

So Quickly Time Passes

2010-05-03T12:10:00.003-04:00

Last night, after a very full and happy weekend, I thought about when I had blogged last. When I realized how long it had been or that the last time I updated my Project 365 was April 11th I thought...yikes!

So much has been going on. Busy days, happy days.

Concentrating on my family, my boys, has been my number one priority. Learning the ways of my new DSLR has been a strong second. For as much photo ability I thought I had I know nothing...but I'm learning. And finding beauty in life has been laying dormant in me for a long time but I think I've finally woken up.

Letting go is hard. Trusting something greater then myself, at times, is hard. Being mindful of where I was and where I am is rewarding.

Never wanting to go backwards, only forward.

Life is way to short to let it pass right by. Learning to love it, despite its ups & downs, is key!

Two

2010-04-15T10:17:00.000-04:00

Two years ago today you came into our lives like the rock star that you are! A little girl, all pink, all the time. I never thought it possible to love someone as much as I love my very own son, but you little girl...you have a huge chunk of my heart.

Your mommy and I may not always see eye to eye but you and I will always have "us". I am your Teta Jo! And when you call my name my heart explodes and you can have anything your heart desires!

Sixty Four

2010-04-14T22:27:00.000-04:00

There has been one person who has loved me unconditionally since my birth. One person who has stood by my side, protected me always, has been my secret keeper, has never judged me and still does to this day.

She gave me a scare last month. I hate when she scares me, I'm completely lost without her. But today, today I got to give her a great big hug and wish her a great big happy birthday! I told her how much I loved her and I shared in her joy.

Today my mom, my best friend, turned 64 and she rocks 64!

Happy Birthday Mom, I love you so very much!

Madeline Alice Spohr

2010-04-07T10:40:00.007-04:00

(Photo borrowed from Heather Spohr's Flickr)

One year ago today a beautiful little girl left this world.

One year ago today a family's heart shattered into a million pieces.

One year ago today thousands rallied around a family.

One year ago today I mourned for a child and her family that I have never met in person.

Since that time millions of people know her name.

Since that time millions of people have lifted up her family in prayer.

Since that time much awareness has been shared.

Since that time thousands of dollars have been donated.

Since that time many babies and their families have been spared the same heart ache.

All because one little girl blessed us all with her story and her legacy.

Today we wear purple.

Today we send balloons up to sweet baby Maddie.

Today we take a moment to tell those we love just how much we love them.

Today we squeeze our own children a little tighter.

Heather & Mike, you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Normal Day, Let Me Be Aware of the Treasure You Are

2010-03-28T22:59:00.002-04:00

My life is so full.

I LOVE YOU! I LOVE YOU! I LOVE YOU!

2010-03-20T14:33:00.002-04:00

Every word, every funky beat, everytime your hip shakes is how I feel today!

I love you! I love you! I love you!

Capturing the Quiet

2010-03-11T10:26:00.000-05:00

I envy the kitten, who sleeps in sun patches on my kitchen table or sneaks into the linen closet for a rest away from the tormenting five year old. Oh how I wish I could fit on a shelf in my linen closet...

I Could Use a Nap

2010-03-08T11:07:00.002-05:00

I am exhausted. I could use a nap.

I am still battling this ridiculous head cold. Now my ears are all plugged up, my lips chapped because of not being able to breath through my nose and sleep...it barely comes.

I shouldn't complain really.

My mom has been in the hospital for over two weeks now and she's probably going to be there for another two. She had emergency surgery last Thursday, transferred out of ICU last night and life as we all know it will be very different for a few months.

Shit is hard without my mom in the picture. She is our glue. We miss her presence so much it hurts.

But the earth continues to rotate. We pull together and share the responsibilities. Our family unit becomes closer.

I am exhausted. I could use a nap.

ENOUGH!

2010-03-02T12:36:00.003-05:00

Dear Mother Nature,

So, it is March 2nd and I know, I know...it's still early but could you please take it a little easier on us? I mean, I've shoveled more snow this year then ever before, I lost count of how much rock salt we've gone through, my skin is so dry I look like a lizard.

We've done the sledding, the snowman building, the igloo making, the icicle licking, the snow eating, the snowball fights...we've done it all.

We are on our umpteenth round of head colds in the house.

We are in dire need of some sunshine and temps over 30! We are desperate to shed our winter coats and boats. We are longing for days of flip flops and swim suits.

I can feel it, it's coming I know, but if you could just put a rush on this...it would be huge!

Yours truly,

Jodi

All The Way To The Sun And The Moon

2010-02-23T13:49:00.003-05:00

That is how we answer Jakob every night when he asks us how much we love him just before he closes his eyes.
There is so much love in the little things.
A changed light bulb that I couldn't reach.
Cupcakes with sprinkles and it's nobody's birthday!
Driving home at lunch time everyday just to spend 45 minutes together.
A glance from across the room every time you hear those lyrics.
Slow dancing in the family room.
A kiss that keeps me coming back for more.
Little hands that give massages.
Family Snuggle Time
And so much more...

And my wish is that you all have as much love in your lives as I do in mine!

A Day For Love

2010-02-14T12:21:00.003-05:00

Sitting here, enjoying morning coffee, borrowed laptop.
Kitty knocking Valentine's to the floor, two dozen cupcakes of love waiting to be baked.
Harsh words over habits, all forgotten now, on this day for lovers.
Snow falling quietly, softly outside the kitchen window, coffee warm.
Chocolate hearts wrapped in red foil, peal away and indulge.

Expect Great Things

2010-02-12T11:51:00.002-05:00

271
Originally uploaded by Jodi_S

On January 1st Jakob and I shared Chinese take-out. We always look forward to our fortune and learning a new word. I can always make him giggle when trying to pronounce our newly learned Chinese word, it's my favorite part of the meal. To my surprise, I cracked open a good one.

I usually don't allow myself to "expect great things", always afraid of the next shoe dropping. But, to my delight, 2010 has already brought a few great things which I never expected.

If you would like to know more, stay tuned...I plan on revealing them one at a time here on my good ol' blog!

We Interrupt Your Regularly Scheduled Program...

2010-02-09T13:17:00.000-05:00

Excuse me while I:

Nurse a terrible head cold.

Ponder the future of this blog.

Take "stock of my life".

Look for my slippers.

And take a nap.

Freedom Is Mine and You Know How I Feel

2010-02-07T11:05:00.000-05:00

Birds flyin' high, you know how I feel
Sun in the sky, you know how I feel
Breeze driftin' on by, you know how I feel

It's a new day
It's a new dawn
It's a new life
For me..........and I'm Feelin' Good

Fish in the sea you know how I feel
Rivers running free you know how I feel
Blossoms on the tree you know how I feel

It's a new dawn
It's a new day
It's a new life
For me..........and I'm feelin' good

Dragonfly in the sun you know what I mean, don't cha know?
Butterflies all havin' fun you know what I mean
Sleep in peace when day is done
That's what I mean

And this old world is a new world
And a bold world
For Me

Stars when you shine you know how I feel
Scent of the pine you know how I feel

Oh freedom is mine
And I know how I feel

It's a new day
It's a new dawn
It's a new life
For me............ and I'm feelin' good.

Time Is On My Side, Yes It Is

2010-02-05T10:17:00.002-05:00

Hey! Hey! You Got Me Rockin' Now!

2010-02-04T11:50:00.001-05:00

The planning has begun for the 2010 Shull Family Vacation! I know, so exciting right?!

The decision has been made to go back to Tahoe. We absolutely loved it there last year, it is beautiful, relaxing and there is tons to do! We are staying in a different house, a house right on the lake! Brian will bring his boat to dock, in our backyard. There will be "Judy breakfasts", morning coffee in the hot tub, jet skiing, naps, card games, laughs and a whole lotta love!

I love that this is becoming a tradition. My in-laws are some of the funniest, nicest people in the world. And I enjoy every second we get to spend together on the beautiful lakes of Tahoe!

Crack That Whip

2010-02-01T10:25:00.001-05:00

This weekend was full of a lot of me time, something I rarely ever get.

Friday night I hosted a little get together with some of my favorite ladies.

We stuffed our faces with bread dip, chips & salsa, pizza, cupcakes and wine.

Love my girls.

Saturday and Sunday Aaron worked his normal 2nd shift.

I wasn't feeling all that well (see above) so I laid low.

I rented a couple of movies, made myself some tea, put Jakob to bed early and laid like broccoli.

I felt so much better after watching "Whip It". First off, LOVE Drew Barrymore! She's always been a favorite of mine, so beautiful, so talented. Her directorial debut, in my opinion, is a HUGE hit! So many big names, so many big hits! This movie made me want to blow the dust off my roller skates, apply heavy black eyeliner and start kickin' some serious booty!

On Sunday, after I put Jakob to bed and cleaned up the kitchen, I popped in my second pick,

"500 Days of Summer"

The movie was great but the whole time I kept thinking to myself, holy smokes, that's the kid from Third Rock and OMG he's kinda....HOT!

Another pick I was proud of...thanks Family Video girl for the recommendation!

I love my local rental store.

Put Another Dime In the Jukebox Baby

2010-01-28T10:00:00.001-05:00

My kid is so cool. Yeah, I said it, I'll say it again...

MY KID IS SOOOOOO COOL!

My kid is so cool because he has a wicked sense of humor!

My kid is so cool because his favorite bands are The Beatles, The Who, KISS, The Police, RUSH!

My kid is so cool because he meditates!

My kid is so cool because he's super smart!

My kid is so cool because he's got a killer smile!

My kid is so cool because he loves people!

My kid is so cool because he idolizes people like his dad, Ringo, Neil & Keith.

I think I'm in BIG trouble!

We Belong Together

2010-01-23T11:36:00.000-05:00

I am sitting here this morning, using Jonah's laptop, surfing the web (do people still say that?), with a super special cake baking in the oven. I am so domesticated!

The super special cake in my oven is a birthday cake. A birthday cake for one of my most favorite people on the planet. Today is Aaron's 37th birthday! We have quite a night planned. We have dinner reservations at (the amazing) Hutches, followed by cake & pressies with the family & friends at our place, ROCKBAND!, and a whole lot of lovin'!

I love Aaron's birthday. It falls at a perfect time of year, when everyone is hunkered down and hibernating trying to escape the cold of January we are able to gather and celebrate. Today happens to be a beautiful day outside, the sun is shining and the temperature is warm-ish.

I love Aaron's birthday because he never really looks forward to growing another year older (who does?) so every year I try to make it super special so he doesn't mind the day (he usually ends up having fun).

I love Aaron's birthday because without him in my life I don't know where I'd be. He makes me happy, he makes me laugh, he makes me feel beautiful, he gives me faith, he is a wonderful husband, father & friend.

I am so lucky that January 23rd is such an important day in my life. It's one of my favorite days of the year!

Happy Birthday Sweetheart, I love you so very much!

Rub, Dub, I Was Splashin' In the Tub

2010-01-22T10:42:00.005-05:00

I have never been a real “girly girl” when it comes to skin care. I’ve always used the same body soap, hit or miss on facial products and salts or sugars? Never.

As of late my skin has been looking “old & tired” and I thought to myself, I am too young to have “old & tired” looking skin.

So, as Cjane recommended I ordered some Redmond Clay and I am anxiously awaiting it's arrival. I have also been using a daily face moisturizer made by Burt's Bees.

But my all time favorite line of products, hands down, is Bliss. A few years ago my mother-in-law gave me a Bliss shower gel/body butter set for my birthday. It was Plum Plum. My God, I could have eaten the stuff! After getting out of the shower the whole house would smell like the bath gel...it was fabulous!

Jonah is in town. Last weekend he treated himself to a full day at the Bliss Spa in San Francisco. He said it was amazing, I believe him. While there he picked up some products for me and gifted them upon his arrival! I have been smelling like a creamsicle for 2 days now. My skin has NEVER been so soft and smooth. The jar of Blood Orange & White Pepper Sugar Scrub....FREAKIN' FABULOUS! When I got out of the shower last night I told Jonah he NEEDED to go take a shower and try it out. He fell in just as much love with the product as I did. Top it off with a nice layer of Body Butter and you are ready for a soft, relaxing night!

I have been fighting the urge to lick my arm all morning!

Let's Go Buffalo, Let's Go!

2010-01-21T10:24:00.005-05:00

I am a hockey girl. I usually do not miss a Sabres game and if I am lucky enough to get tickets to go downtown to watch a game...I always leave my voice in the arena. So I was tickled when Jakob came home from school with floor hockey sign-ups and expressed an interest in joining the team!

We are in the 6th week of hockey. Jakob is an excellent defensive player...he loves fighting for that puck and clearing it out of his zone. Offensively he really doesn't know what he's doing, he forgets to stay in his zone and the coach is always calling after him to get back on sides. It's kinda funny.

Every kid on the team gets a chance to be goalie. For six weeks Jakob has evaded the position. He hasn't wanted his turn, he stressed himself out at the thought of all the responsibility of a goaltender.

Last night coach checked her roster and saw that Jakob had yet to be goalie. She sent him towards the net where the pads and gloves lay on top. He laid down on the gymnasium floor while his father strapped on his pads, fastened his helmet and helped him stand up. Then he stood there looking ADORABLE!

Here's the thing...JAKOB ROCKED MINDING THAT GOAL!...

No one could score on him! He made sliding saves, kick away saves, covered up when necessary...I mean...I sat there with my mouth gaping open! Here all these weeks he was so unsure of himself and then proved to himself that not only could he do it but that he ROCKED MINDING THAT GOAL!

I am thinking now I am going to have to go out and purchase him goalie pads, gloves and helmet (because he looks so darn cute in it!) so that he can practice, practice, practice!

You've Gotta Friend in Me

2010-01-20T10:52:00.000-05:00

Sixteen years ago I was sitting in the student union at our community college, reading a book and drinking a cup of coffee. Across the room I spotted a tall, thin, glasses wearing young man. He was one of those nerdy but hot types...you know what I mean. I was smitten and I didn't even know his name.

Turns out his name was (and still is) Michael. Michael became one of my greatest friends of all time. Michael has made me laugh until I cried, he has stirred my creative side, he has fed my brain, he has broken my heart, he has made me greasy potato pancakes, he is "rustic", he is great friends with my husband and he loves my son...I could go on and on.

Today Michael turns 35! "Half way to 70 baby!"

Michael,

I hope you have a beautiful birthday today! May the next 35 years be as fabulous as the first!

Happy Birthday my sweet friend!

I love you!

She's A Day Tripper

2010-01-19T15:19:00.000-05:00

Rochester, New York

Monroe County

Boring Drive

Excellent Company!

When You've Only Got 100 Years to Live

2010-01-16T12:09:00.001-05:00

I remember when I was a little girl, my mother always had a jar full of buttons on her dresser. I used to love to sneak into her room, spill all of them onto the floor beside her bed and play with all the different colored buttons. There were buttons that had fallen off of old blouses and coats, two buttons from old sofas we'd had and tons of little white and black buttons, all of various shapes and sizes. I don't really remember how I'd play with them but I imagine I would lay them out, largest to smallest. Or maybe I would seperate them by color? All I know is I always loved that jar of buttons.

Jakob's school celebrates the 100th Day of School. Apparently it's a big deal. The kids have various projects to completed by the first of February. I got the paperwork this past week. I'm not crafty.

One of the projects is to collect 100 things and set them up in a display. BUTTONS!

It's funny how life circles around. That jar of buttons? It now sits on my dresser and last night Jakob spilled them onto the floor beside my bed and began to play.

So Happy Together

2010-01-11T10:16:00.000-05:00

I am having a girlfriend over for dinner tonight. It's been awhile since she and I hung out, it will be the first time she is to my "new place" and Aaron will be at work, Jakob with my parents so we will have a couple of hours of uninterrupted "girl time", I'm beyond excited.

What I am NOT beyond excited about is the fact that my body chose this weekend to go all nutty. I have a stye in my right eye, my hair hates me lately and I have a lovely pimple on my chest. Nice.

I hope the meal is better then her view or I have a feeling I may never see her again!