Reading
Oliver Twist-
I won tickets to a local production of Oliver! earlier this summer. When I discovered I could download the Dickens classic for free, I decided it was worth a re-reading. Especially when you consider I hadn't read it since elementary school. If I ever finish it, it will be our new 'family reading' book. The problem is finding time to read AND getting all of my kids in the same house at the same time. But we will get there. And again, Charles Dickens doesn't disappoint.
Watching
Since 19 Kids and Counting finished its season, I haven't watched much. I have seen a few episodes of Kate Plus 8 and while she may not be the nicest person on the planet, I know what it's like to be judged harshly by people who never bothered to get to know me and I can't imagine how awful it would be to have my marriage fall apart on national TV. I think the kids did benefit from their time away from the camera, but they seem OK to me now that they are back on the air. I will always be a bit protective of those kiddos because they were born on the same day as Elisa. And while I certainly lack Kate's Type A organization and time management skills, I respect them. And I really don't like the fact that we still live in a world where it's somehow not OK for a woman to know exactly how she wants something to be and sticks to her guns until it's accomplished.
At the Movies
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows 2-
I saw this last week when it premiered, but Natalie was at Girls' Camp when that happened so I took her to see it this week. (I LOVE that she wanted to see it with me more than anyone else, because who knows how long that will last.) I cried just as much the second time and loved it just as much too. Perhaps during some downtime on my upcoming vacation I will post in more detail now that Blogger has added a 'click to read more' tool so that I don't spoil it for anyone.
Away We Go
An independent film starring Maya Rudolph that barely touched the theatres before it was gone. And I'm not sure why because I absolutely loved it. :) It's about a couple that is looking for the perfect place to raise their first child and I believe Ms. Rudolph was actually pregnant during filming. It also features John Krasiniski, Catherine O'Hara, Jeff Daniels, and some hilarious cameos by Allison Janney (who I adore) and Maggie Gyllenhaal. You should check it out! (And by "you", I mean "Anne.")
On Broadway
Ragtime-
When Natalie was little, the Rosie O'Donnell show featured a song from this "brand new on Broadway" show. Audra McDonald performed it. I knew someday I HAD to see it. I had no idea how sad and powerful it would be, but I enjoyed it. And the costumes were so good they are worth mentioning too-and I usually don't notice anything but the songs when I see a show.
"How to Eat Like a Child..."-
This wasn't really on stage, but it was Tristan's last show for the summer. For the last three weeks of rehearsals he has downplayed how funny he would be and how appropriate his solo was (instead of tears of pride, I had tears from laughing). I feel like an idiot for not taping it. Maybe I can get him to sing an encore. As a reward, he got to go to a movie last night after the show and to Great Wolf Lodge with my mom, my sisters, and their kids this weekend. I hope he's having a great time!
Out and About
My work week was light, so most of my evenings were spent cleaning the house instead of blogging/shopping/or anything otherwise remotely entertaining. Which is why I enjoyed seeing so many of my 4th ward friends even if it was because some of them are moving out of state and had a going away party. :( The Norman Oklahoma stake without Bob and Tracy and their awesome kids? I can't imagine it. :(
And my final thought for the week is this: The best thing about having to speak in church is when you have finished your talk and returned to your seat. Can I get an amen?
I'm off for Seattle and the Oregon Coast with Natalie and Caroline which either means that blogging will be much more frequent because I'm on vacation OR non-existent because I'm having a great time. Or both! Have a great week!
Showing posts with label TV Addicted. Show all posts
Showing posts with label TV Addicted. Show all posts
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Week In Review
Reading
Have I read anything this week aside from work emails and grant applications? I'm thinking no. Unfortunately.
Watching
19 Kids and Counting
Can I tell you how happy I was to see Michelle Duggar's big ol' laundry pile?! It's nice to know her house isn't always spotless. I don't remember too many of the details of the episode (except, of course, for what Anna & Josh are having), but I was SO HAPPY to know I'm not the only woman with a huge pile of clothes on her laundry room floor.
Mr. Sunshine
As if I couldn't love it more, they gave James Taylor a cameo! I love this show way too much for it to last more than a season or two.
At the Movies
Just Go with It
I finally got to have a movie night with Deborah! We hadn't done that since she left for Germany even though she's been back in the Sooner State since December. We've managed phone calls and shopping, but we brought 'dinner and a movie' night back last Friday in Bricktown. We loved this movie, though I think it was a little on the long side. It's not going to win any Oscars, but it was a lot of fun to watch. Also, every time I see a movie with the lovely Jennifer Aniston, I want to punch Brad Pitt in his beautiful, 'takes himself too seriously' face. I hope she really is happy. And I'm kind of sorry that he is. Because that's the kind of gal I am.
Out and About
Relief Society Birthday Dinner
See? Sometimes I'm social at church. I could have lived without the tongue-lashing over me traveling and leaving my "poor husband at home with all those little kids." But it still managed to be a fun evening. Especially since one of my favorite 'partners in crime' actually showed up too. (You know who you are...)
Bolero's
Before the movie, we had some lovely tapas at this little place close to the Harkins theatre. The food was good and the proximity to the theatre and its view of Bricktown were enjoyable too.
District 1 Exemplification/Reception
The days of one car to get there and one hotel room to house all of Norman Assembly are over! As I joked with one of the other Mother Advisor's: My prayer used to be "Dear Lord, we need more girls." And now it is "Dear LORD, what am I going to do with all these girls?!" Natalie made it home safe and sound and in time to come with us. I also had wonderful help in the form of Wendy's mom who used to be Assistant Mother Advisor when I was in Rainbow. But when I compare this year's Tulsa visit with 5 girls to last year's visit with just two, I definitely feel how the game has changed. But I do think it's been for the better and I do feel that taking on the M.A. position was the right decision. Also, will I ever NOT cry when we sing that one song at the end of each meeting? (Probably not.)
And with all this craziness, maybe it's best that Spring Break is over so I can get back into the regular routine of school. Who knew I would EVER say that?
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Thursday Thirteen: Happy Things about My Week
- Taking my cousins to Cattleman's Steakhouse for breakfast. I'm pretty sure that was the first time I ever had steak before dinner time.
- My uncle making them go back there with him for lunch because it wasn't fair that they got steak and he didn't.
- Having all those wonderful people in town, even if it was for a sad occasion.
- The way the funeral home got Aunt Marguerite's hair just right. I hadn't seen it styled in the past three years, and it finally looked just the way I remembered it. She would have liked that.
- My kids speaking at the funeral. Do not leave a working microphone around my kids unless you want to hear from them.
- Getting to read the obituary that I wrote. That way, I guaranteed that NONE of the names were mispronounced. Not to mention a service that boasted Glen Miller, "I'll Be Seeing You", "Amazing Grace," the Byrds, and John Denver and the Muppets in its music selection.
- My Father-in-Law being at the funeral. (Aunt Marguerite was always fond of him.) It was good of him to come.
- A weekend with my family, just being together.
- A job that is a lot like being PTA President, only with a paycheck. For once.
- Working with and serving with people I have a good rapport with-and right now that includes work and both my big volunteer positions with Rainbow and the Primary Presidency.
- Finally getting caught up on Glee, Parenthood, and Mr. Sunshine (how much do I LOVE Allison Janney?! Enough to pray this show doesn't get cancelled.)
- Gelato and a movie with one of my favorite people.
- Sharing fast food napkins with that same favorite person at a particularly sad part of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Pt. 1.
*And, as a bonus, knowing that same person would help me take the Rainbow Assembly to Tulsa in a week even though it means missing Laniefest. (But really Chris, there is no reason we should BOTH miss it. Though I love you for offering.)*
I am blessed. Have a great weekend everyone!
Monday, March 07, 2011
I Hope Tomorrow is Rainy
There is a funny series of scenes in the first season of Gilmore Girls where Lorelai realizes that every nice outfit she owns is either dirty or locked up at the dry cleaners on Rory’s first morning at Chilton. To cover, she wears a nice trench coat over a t-shirt, a pair of Daisy Dukes, and some dress boots. (And, of course, her mother outed her in front of the principal. Not unlike something my own mother would do, come to think of it.)
As the museum’s new Interim Director, I have my first Executive Committee meeting tomorrow as well as some important community group meetings on Wednesday and Thursday. As a mom of 5, I own nothing that would be locked up at the dry cleaners; but all my dress outfits are in the dirty clothes pile.
This means I have to be up by 6 a.m. starting the laundry so that an acceptable outfit will be ready when I leave for work at 8. Unfortunately, I’ve developed quite a talent for hitting the snooze button in my sleep. I will be moving my alarm out of arm’s reach. And I also have my very nice trench coat hanging right by the front door. *Just in case.* (And I won't have my mom at any of the meetings, that will help too.)
Sunday, December 19, 2010
My Favorite Christmas Special
I've always related to Charlie Brown. I've never been the smartest, cutest, or most talented person in the group. I often feel passed over or a little bit left out because I never have and never will know how to be the star that shines the brightest. And I ALWAYS get overwhelmed/depressed at least once or twice during the holiday season. Is it any wonder that this particular show has always been my favorite. (And the fact that I am the mom of two thumb-sucking, blanket-wielding children is just icing on the cake.)
Monday, November 29, 2010
Week In Review
Reading
The Lost Olympian by Rick Riordan
We didn't make as much progress over the long weekend as I hoped we would thanks to my icky cold, but at least we know who each of our main characters belongs to now and they are just about to leave on their quest.
Watching
I'm still watching all my usual shows, but I'm much more excited about the plethora of Muppets specials I watched when I felt too icky to do anything else. The Muppets Take Manhattan, The Muppet Christmas Carol, The Muppet Family Christmas, and even The Muppets Tribute to Jim Henson. A lot of happy tears were shed while I rested. Maybe that's why I'm bouncing back so much more quickly than I usually do from being sick. I feel bad that I didn't get all the house projects and reading I had planned to do, but I did have a good weekend.
At the Movies
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Pt. 1
We saw this before I started feeling bad. It. Was. Awesome. And definitely worth the wait. I remember being pregnant with Caroline when I saw the first movie, this is the first one she was old enough to go see with us in the theatre. Time goes by WAY too fast. But it was nice to have such a fun time with my children doing something we ALL love.
In My Netflix Queue
Peggy Sue Got Married-
I thought it was a nice companion to last week's Back to the Future. I've loved this movie since high school. But if I thought it made me cry then...And I also remember when my 25th high school reunion seemed like forever away. Now? Not so much. It's still a great movie though. Kathleen Turner is amazing and hello Jim Carrey's early career.
Out and About: Thanksgiving
For some reason (likely the "I'm getting sick" reason), Thanksgiving without Aunt Marguerite feeling herself enough to boss the rest of us around was hard this year. She was there, of course, but not really. Thanksgiving was ALWAYS her big to-do and dinner at HER house when other people did the cooking pretty much sucked. Of course, my mom went out of her way to make sure that Dave and I felt like guests as opposed to family-which is how Dave has felt* with his own family since his mother died. At least it made him extra sympathetic to my situation.
But, as has been constant since childhood, no matter what craziness the my mother throws my way in the afternoon; it is always made up for with the Lawson family gathering in Tulsa. My Namaw, my Pawdad, and my aunts, uncles and cousins never meet strangers. In fact, even my sister's ex-husband and his new wife could show up and feel welcome at their table. (I doubt they would ever make the drive, but they do know that they have a standing invitation because we talked about it recently.) For all my mom's shortcomings, the rest of my family's ability to accept and love everyone freakin' rocks. Ironically, my heathen sisters tend to do a much better job of 'loving thy neighbor' than most people who claim to be Christians. Then again, some of the kindest people I met on my mission were Atheists; so that's nothing new.
Church:
I am always quick to complain about church when it goes wrong, so I should definitely praise it when it goes right. And last Sunday went very right. My friend Deborah is in town and decided to visit!! We had spent part of Saturday together too which meant one of her triplets felt brave enough to sit with me and my kids. We had fun getting caught up with one of our former YW throughout the second hour (She's married now-we could both just die!) and Sharing Time was REALLY fun-which isn't always the case. The kids gave me a ton of hugs. Deb led the music. Good times were had by all!!
*felt=feel/feelings (and those don't get a "true" or "false" label, feelings just are what they are)
The Lost Olympian by Rick Riordan
We didn't make as much progress over the long weekend as I hoped we would thanks to my icky cold, but at least we know who each of our main characters belongs to now and they are just about to leave on their quest.
Watching
I'm still watching all my usual shows, but I'm much more excited about the plethora of Muppets specials I watched when I felt too icky to do anything else. The Muppets Take Manhattan, The Muppet Christmas Carol, The Muppet Family Christmas, and even The Muppets Tribute to Jim Henson. A lot of happy tears were shed while I rested. Maybe that's why I'm bouncing back so much more quickly than I usually do from being sick. I feel bad that I didn't get all the house projects and reading I had planned to do, but I did have a good weekend.
At the Movies
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Pt. 1
We saw this before I started feeling bad. It. Was. Awesome. And definitely worth the wait. I remember being pregnant with Caroline when I saw the first movie, this is the first one she was old enough to go see with us in the theatre. Time goes by WAY too fast. But it was nice to have such a fun time with my children doing something we ALL love.
In My Netflix Queue
Peggy Sue Got Married-
I thought it was a nice companion to last week's Back to the Future. I've loved this movie since high school. But if I thought it made me cry then...And I also remember when my 25th high school reunion seemed like forever away. Now? Not so much. It's still a great movie though. Kathleen Turner is amazing and hello Jim Carrey's early career.
Out and About: Thanksgiving
For some reason (likely the "I'm getting sick" reason), Thanksgiving without Aunt Marguerite feeling herself enough to boss the rest of us around was hard this year. She was there, of course, but not really. Thanksgiving was ALWAYS her big to-do and dinner at HER house when other people did the cooking pretty much sucked. Of course, my mom went out of her way to make sure that Dave and I felt like guests as opposed to family-which is how Dave has felt* with his own family since his mother died. At least it made him extra sympathetic to my situation.
But, as has been constant since childhood, no matter what craziness the my mother throws my way in the afternoon; it is always made up for with the Lawson family gathering in Tulsa. My Namaw, my Pawdad, and my aunts, uncles and cousins never meet strangers. In fact, even my sister's ex-husband and his new wife could show up and feel welcome at their table. (I doubt they would ever make the drive, but they do know that they have a standing invitation because we talked about it recently.) For all my mom's shortcomings, the rest of my family's ability to accept and love everyone freakin' rocks. Ironically, my heathen sisters tend to do a much better job of 'loving thy neighbor' than most people who claim to be Christians. Then again, some of the kindest people I met on my mission were Atheists; so that's nothing new.
Church:
I am always quick to complain about church when it goes wrong, so I should definitely praise it when it goes right. And last Sunday went very right. My friend Deborah is in town and decided to visit!! We had spent part of Saturday together too which meant one of her triplets felt brave enough to sit with me and my kids. We had fun getting caught up with one of our former YW throughout the second hour (She's married now-we could both just die!) and Sharing Time was REALLY fun-which isn't always the case. The kids gave me a ton of hugs. Deb led the music. Good times were had by all!!
*felt=feel/feelings (and those don't get a "true" or "false" label, feelings just are what they are)
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Week In Review
Reading-
The Lost Olympian by Rick Riordan
With all the crazy evenings we have here, we are not making progress nearly as quickly as we did through the Percy Jackson series this summer. But, we still really like the book and we have been told by someone who has already read it that it is the best one ever. Hopefully we will read more next week than the three chapters we managed this week.
Watching
Big Bang Theory-
I always enjoy this show, but this one had an homage to Raiders of the Lost Ark, a Wil Wheaton cameo, AND a girls night. This has potential for this season's favorite episode, but the season is still young yet. And overall I will never love ANY episode moment as much as I loved the one when Sheldon hugged Penny.
Grey's Anatomy-
It's hard to do this without posting spoilers, so...favorite scenes for the episode would have to be Cristina and Callie's hair, Alex's face just before Jackson punches him, Lexie telling Jackson "don't be stupid." And Derek and Cristina talking house fixtures.
OU. v. Texas Tech
Now that's what I'm talking about, Sooners! Let's keep that up for the rest of the season, OK?
(Glee is still sitting unwatched on the Tivo. Maybe we'll just watch it as a double-feature next week.)
Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Season 1
I finally took the suggestions of my husband, several friends, and Netflix and started watching Season One. The special effects make me cringe, but otherwise it's enjoyable so far.
At the Movies
Back to the Future
In honor of its 25th anniversary, we pulled out my trilogy boxed set and had fun watching it on Friday. I caught Huey's Lewis' cameo as an audition judge for the first time ever (and I won't admit how many times I've seen the movie previously). I'm quick like that. Natalie really liked it, though the other kids weren't as impressed. Maybe they will like #3. (I really want to skip the sequel, it confuses me.)
Hairspray
Natalie and her friends wore out my DVD of this, so thank you to Oxygen channel for airing it this week. And I guess I should thank the kids who came to work on Friday and wore me out so much that all I could do was watch movies and Buffy re-runs with my kids that night. Sometimes we just need nights like that.
Out and About-
5th Grade All-City Choir concert
I actually picked my son out of the crowd!! (Still not sure where Natalie was for that 2 years ago and I really wanted to find her.) The songs were cute, seeing people from former and current schools was fun, and so was seeing friends from church. I had 111 kids to teach at work that day, a Rainbow meeting to set up for (and get someone to sub for me during), and still made it to the show before it started. I felt a lot like Super Woman on Tuesday. It was a good thing. (But even better that the rest of my week wasn't quite as packed as usual.)
Shrek: The Musical
When I heard about this one on Broadway, I was skeptical. I liked the movies, but did we really need a musical too? The answer is a resounding YES!!! And I only wish I had the money to take all of my kids to see it. (Natalie and Caroline were my lucky dates last night.) It was cute, clever, and very funny. I haven't bought anything on iTunes in months, but I will be downloading the Shrek soundtrack before today is through. I loved this show and (as always) had a great time going out to see it last night.
The Lost Olympian by Rick Riordan
With all the crazy evenings we have here, we are not making progress nearly as quickly as we did through the Percy Jackson series this summer. But, we still really like the book and we have been told by someone who has already read it that it is the best one ever. Hopefully we will read more next week than the three chapters we managed this week.
Watching
Big Bang Theory-
I always enjoy this show, but this one had an homage to Raiders of the Lost Ark, a Wil Wheaton cameo, AND a girls night. This has potential for this season's favorite episode, but the season is still young yet. And overall I will never love ANY episode moment as much as I loved the one when Sheldon hugged Penny.
Grey's Anatomy-
It's hard to do this without posting spoilers, so...favorite scenes for the episode would have to be Cristina and Callie's hair, Alex's face just before Jackson punches him, Lexie telling Jackson "don't be stupid." And Derek and Cristina talking house fixtures.
OU. v. Texas Tech
Now that's what I'm talking about, Sooners! Let's keep that up for the rest of the season, OK?
(Glee is still sitting unwatched on the Tivo. Maybe we'll just watch it as a double-feature next week.)
Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Season 1
I finally took the suggestions of my husband, several friends, and Netflix and started watching Season One. The special effects make me cringe, but otherwise it's enjoyable so far.
At the Movies
Back to the Future
In honor of its 25th anniversary, we pulled out my trilogy boxed set and had fun watching it on Friday. I caught Huey's Lewis' cameo as an audition judge for the first time ever (and I won't admit how many times I've seen the movie previously). I'm quick like that. Natalie really liked it, though the other kids weren't as impressed. Maybe they will like #3. (I really want to skip the sequel, it confuses me.)
Hairspray
Natalie and her friends wore out my DVD of this, so thank you to Oxygen channel for airing it this week. And I guess I should thank the kids who came to work on Friday and wore me out so much that all I could do was watch movies and Buffy re-runs with my kids that night. Sometimes we just need nights like that.
Out and About-
5th Grade All-City Choir concert
I actually picked my son out of the crowd!! (Still not sure where Natalie was for that 2 years ago and I really wanted to find her.) The songs were cute, seeing people from former and current schools was fun, and so was seeing friends from church. I had 111 kids to teach at work that day, a Rainbow meeting to set up for (and get someone to sub for me during), and still made it to the show before it started. I felt a lot like Super Woman on Tuesday. It was a good thing. (But even better that the rest of my week wasn't quite as packed as usual.)
Shrek: The Musical
When I heard about this one on Broadway, I was skeptical. I liked the movies, but did we really need a musical too? The answer is a resounding YES!!! And I only wish I had the money to take all of my kids to see it. (Natalie and Caroline were my lucky dates last night.) It was cute, clever, and very funny. I haven't bought anything on iTunes in months, but I will be downloading the Shrek soundtrack before today is through. I loved this show and (as always) had a great time going out to see it last night.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Week In Review
Reading
Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Last Olympian by Rick Riordan
Midway through the book and I am already getting choked up and teary-eyed while reading to the kids, much to the chagrin of my almost-teen daughter. Oh well, when they start talking about the youth-as-heroes, Mama's going to cry. Especially since I already know how it ends. But the kids are loving it. We try and have a 'no TV on Sunday rule' here, and when there's lots of Percy Jackson to read; we usually get away with it. I'm toying with reading The Hobbit with them next or maybe the Chronicles of Narnia even though I know that my older two have read them dozens of times already. On an unrelated topic, how cool is it to have a job where you can order the boxed set of Little House on the Prairie books because you genuinely need them for work purposes. Pretty cool indeed.
Watching
The Big Bang Theory
If there's anything I missed the first time in Season 3, I think I've seen it now. Also, what in the world are the writer's going to do about Kaley Cuoco's broken legs? I'm curious to see how it plays out this season. And finally, the kids and I have some hypotheses about what Amy Farrah Fowler does for a living since Sheldon would have already known her if she were a scientist of any note whatsoever. My bet is on Library Science even though I simultaneously bristle at the stereotype. Natalie went with English teacher, but I think she's been written as too matter-of-fact for that. Tristan said he didn't care as long as the show was coming back next week. And regardless of whether any of us are right, we can't wait for Thursday!! (And thanks to DVR, I'll still get my Grey's on too.)
Parenthood-
I'm glad the show is back, I'm kind of bummed about the Jasmine character spending the season in transit. I was actually a little bit underwhelmed by the first episode, but I adore this show and have faith it will get better.
19 Kids and Counting-
I'm glad the baby is home and healthy. That's pretty much what I got from watching two weeks' worth of episodes.
OU v. Air Force
Technically, I listened to this while driving to and from OKC. But...seriously Sooners? You're starting to scare me.
Extracurricular Activities
Bridal Shower
I skipped a precious OU game viewing because one of my former co-workers is getting married. It was like a mini-reunion for co-workers. Since it was a couples' shower, I got to see their spouses too. I had a great time getting caught up on what everyone is doing and how one of them is now expecting her first baby. (Squee!) Since Natalie was my date, I'm glad we didn't play some cheesy version of 'The Newlywed Game,' though one co-worker's wife aptly noted that Natalie would likely outscore Dave at such a competition. Alas, I think she was right. At any rate, a great time was had by all and I'm so excited for the wedding in a few weeks. (Squee again!)
This week was slow, next week is very full and should make for much better blog fodder. Provided I actually have time to write about any of it.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Last Olympian by Rick Riordan
Midway through the book and I am already getting choked up and teary-eyed while reading to the kids, much to the chagrin of my almost-teen daughter. Oh well, when they start talking about the youth-as-heroes, Mama's going to cry. Especially since I already know how it ends. But the kids are loving it. We try and have a 'no TV on Sunday rule' here, and when there's lots of Percy Jackson to read; we usually get away with it. I'm toying with reading The Hobbit with them next or maybe the Chronicles of Narnia even though I know that my older two have read them dozens of times already. On an unrelated topic, how cool is it to have a job where you can order the boxed set of Little House on the Prairie books because you genuinely need them for work purposes. Pretty cool indeed.
Watching
The Big Bang Theory
If there's anything I missed the first time in Season 3, I think I've seen it now. Also, what in the world are the writer's going to do about Kaley Cuoco's broken legs? I'm curious to see how it plays out this season. And finally, the kids and I have some hypotheses about what Amy Farrah Fowler does for a living since Sheldon would have already known her if she were a scientist of any note whatsoever. My bet is on Library Science even though I simultaneously bristle at the stereotype. Natalie went with English teacher, but I think she's been written as too matter-of-fact for that. Tristan said he didn't care as long as the show was coming back next week. And regardless of whether any of us are right, we can't wait for Thursday!! (And thanks to DVR, I'll still get my Grey's on too.)
Parenthood-
I'm glad the show is back, I'm kind of bummed about the Jasmine character spending the season in transit. I was actually a little bit underwhelmed by the first episode, but I adore this show and have faith it will get better.
19 Kids and Counting-
I'm glad the baby is home and healthy. That's pretty much what I got from watching two weeks' worth of episodes.
OU v. Air Force
Technically, I listened to this while driving to and from OKC. But...seriously Sooners? You're starting to scare me.
Extracurricular Activities
Bridal Shower
I skipped a precious OU game viewing because one of my former co-workers is getting married. It was like a mini-reunion for co-workers. Since it was a couples' shower, I got to see their spouses too. I had a great time getting caught up on what everyone is doing and how one of them is now expecting her first baby. (Squee!) Since Natalie was my date, I'm glad we didn't play some cheesy version of 'The Newlywed Game,' though one co-worker's wife aptly noted that Natalie would likely outscore Dave at such a competition. Alas, I think she was right. At any rate, a great time was had by all and I'm so excited for the wedding in a few weeks. (Squee again!)
This week was slow, next week is very full and should make for much better blog fodder. Provided I actually have time to write about any of it.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Week In Review
Reading-
The Demigod Files by Rick Riordan
Knowing that two weekend trips were coming, I didn't want to start reading Book 5 in the Percy Jackson series with the kids until I got home. This one was a nice stopgap measure and, conveniently, seems to have been targeted for reading between Books 4 & 5. We read part of it before I left and finished it earlier this week. It was kind of fun to read some short stories that I'm guessing were cut from the novels? (Not sure) I also liked the little interviews and profiles. It wasn't as good as the novels, but for kids who are currently eating, sleeping, and breathing all things Percy Jackson; it's a must-have.
The Last Olympian by Rick Riordan
A.K.A. the LAST book in the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series. I read it on the flight back from Ohio at the beginning of August, and now the kids and I are reading it together. It is my favorite in the series, and the events of Chapter One helped the kids grasp immediately how serious this book is compared to the previous four. Appropriate (I think) that we would start this book on the weekend of 9/11. (Which, incidentally, is all the reference I care to make to that anniversary this weekend. I know I've written about it more extensively in the past.)
Watching
The West Wing, Season 7
I finished the series on Friday. Tears were shed. And I would have to say that, for me, West Wing is to my generation what MASH was to me parents'. I can give no higher praise than that. There is NOTHING about this show that I didn't love. And I had to smile that the dad from Juno had a few appearances in that last season. He was only in one scene with Alison Janney that I noticed, but I wonder if they got a chance to meet then before playing a married couple a few years later in one of my favorite movies. I doubt I will see another show that impresses me as much in my lifetime, and we all know I love me some good TV.
OU v. Florida State
The game is on as I type this. The score is 44 to 7 at the end of the 3rd quarter. I really think this means we're going to win. From what I heard about last week's game, I think I'm glad that even had we wanted to watch last week's Pay Per View game; it wasn't offered in the Seattle area. Today's game is free and MUCH more enjoyable.
Out and About
Seattle Trip
Let's see...between lost luggage, my niece throwing a Thursday night party because her mom, aunt, and cousins were on earlier flights and she thought we wouldn't notice, botched highlights, an introduction as "a baby machine," the requisite amounts of drama from my mother, and a post-wedding party at the local casino on Bainbridge Island; my cousin and his fiancee did manage to have a lovely, intimate, enjoyable wedding outside on a sunny, but not too hot day. And, I managed a lovely lunch with one of my dearest friends and her daughter. I also made it home in one piece and left the airport with my luggage. I spent time with people I love and didn't kill any of what my dad used to call "the hysterical people." I'd have to call that a successful trip. Not that I'm ready to do it all again anytime soon. ;)
Any other activities this week were all work or Rainbow-related and while I see the necessity in each and every one of the meetings I attended, there really isn't anything blog-worth in any of them. Except the observation that Rainbow/DeMolay dances are much more fun when you are a kid attending them and not one of the adults planning them. But I think I suspected that even when I was one of those kids and I do think the upcoming Halloween dance is going to be a blast! I'll try and view it intermittently from the kitchen and sales tables. Sigh.
The Demigod Files by Rick Riordan
Knowing that two weekend trips were coming, I didn't want to start reading Book 5 in the Percy Jackson series with the kids until I got home. This one was a nice stopgap measure and, conveniently, seems to have been targeted for reading between Books 4 & 5. We read part of it before I left and finished it earlier this week. It was kind of fun to read some short stories that I'm guessing were cut from the novels? (Not sure) I also liked the little interviews and profiles. It wasn't as good as the novels, but for kids who are currently eating, sleeping, and breathing all things Percy Jackson; it's a must-have.
The Last Olympian by Rick Riordan
A.K.A. the LAST book in the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series. I read it on the flight back from Ohio at the beginning of August, and now the kids and I are reading it together. It is my favorite in the series, and the events of Chapter One helped the kids grasp immediately how serious this book is compared to the previous four. Appropriate (I think) that we would start this book on the weekend of 9/11. (Which, incidentally, is all the reference I care to make to that anniversary this weekend. I know I've written about it more extensively in the past.)
Watching
The West Wing, Season 7
I finished the series on Friday. Tears were shed. And I would have to say that, for me, West Wing is to my generation what MASH was to me parents'. I can give no higher praise than that. There is NOTHING about this show that I didn't love. And I had to smile that the dad from Juno had a few appearances in that last season. He was only in one scene with Alison Janney that I noticed, but I wonder if they got a chance to meet then before playing a married couple a few years later in one of my favorite movies. I doubt I will see another show that impresses me as much in my lifetime, and we all know I love me some good TV.
OU v. Florida State
The game is on as I type this. The score is 44 to 7 at the end of the 3rd quarter. I really think this means we're going to win. From what I heard about last week's game, I think I'm glad that even had we wanted to watch last week's Pay Per View game; it wasn't offered in the Seattle area. Today's game is free and MUCH more enjoyable.
Out and About
Seattle Trip
Let's see...between lost luggage, my niece throwing a Thursday night party because her mom, aunt, and cousins were on earlier flights and she thought we wouldn't notice, botched highlights, an introduction as "a baby machine," the requisite amounts of drama from my mother, and a post-wedding party at the local casino on Bainbridge Island; my cousin and his fiancee did manage to have a lovely, intimate, enjoyable wedding outside on a sunny, but not too hot day. And, I managed a lovely lunch with one of my dearest friends and her daughter. I also made it home in one piece and left the airport with my luggage. I spent time with people I love and didn't kill any of what my dad used to call "the hysterical people." I'd have to call that a successful trip. Not that I'm ready to do it all again anytime soon. ;)
Any other activities this week were all work or Rainbow-related and while I see the necessity in each and every one of the meetings I attended, there really isn't anything blog-worth in any of them. Except the observation that Rainbow/DeMolay dances are much more fun when you are a kid attending them and not one of the adults planning them. But I think I suspected that even when I was one of those kids and I do think the upcoming Halloween dance is going to be a blast! I'll try and view it intermittently from the kitchen and sales tables. Sigh.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Week In Review
*I'm aware that I get the fewest comments on these and I'm sure if I put out a readers' survey, people would suggest these posts be the ones I don't write anymore. BUT, I'm writing these more for me to have a record of things my family and I did while the kids were growing up, so basically you all are stuck with them.*
Reading
Percy Jackson and the Olympians: Battle of the Labyrinth by Rick Riordan
We will finish this later tonight! I have to say that it's not my favorite book, but reading it through aloud to the kids (I always read them to myself first) has given me more appreciation for it. Book 5 is my favorite and we will start it next week. It's hard to write these reviews without giving away spoilers, but some of the things I have appreciated about this book (and its predecessors) have been the renewed interest my kids have in US geography, Greek mythology, and creative writing/play. Caroline has been writing Greek 'myths' all summer and acting out parts of the book with Elisa (and Tristan when she can rope him into it). And I love events in the book taking place in tourist spots I have visited with the kids: the St. Louis Arch, Arizona, Florida, etc...because the kids really relate to it. All in all, these books will represent the summer of 2010 to my kids and I'm sorry to see them coming to an end.
Watching-
19 Kids and Counting-
Do you think Jim Bob and Michelle took comfort in knowing that not only would their oldest set of twins be together in Southeast Asia, but that a camera crew would be there too? I'm glad though, I've really enjoyed seeing their trip. Also, I'm glad Baby Josie is almost ready to go home. And yes, it is amusing watching Jim Bob on his own with most of the kids, BUT he isn't nearly as inept as the commercial spoilers make him out to be and it irritates me a bit. Kind of like how their cover on People magazine read "WE ARE READY FOR MORE" (babies), but in their interview all they said was 'We aren't going to prevent more, that's not our decision.' (A viewpoint I respect, but lack the necessary faith to follow through with myself. I'm more of a "Let's quit while I still have bladder control" kind of gal. Anyway...) I also wonder why so many visits to the Bates? Could there be some kind of courtship involved? Just curious...
The West Wing, Season 6
I realize that one of the very telling hints as to how odd I am would have to be my love for these two very divergent TV series, but it's just part of the fun of being me. My husband may not love this show, but he bought all 7 seasons for me as a Christmas gift a couple of years ago. I flew through the first 5 seasons, then I got busy with other things and stopped watching them. It wasn't because I didn't love the show, I do! It's just a busy thing to have 5 kids and a job. A few weeks ago, I happened across the show on the Bravo channel and realized I was watching one of the final episodes. That reminded me that I still had two unwatched (and commercial-free) DVD boxed sets in my possession. I finished Season 6 on Saturday. Now that school has started and I start working tomorrow, who knows how long it will take to see Season 7? But I'm determined to see it through by Christmas. I think the writing, direction, and acting on this show made it the highest quality TV series I will see in my lifetime. And I wish the three branches of government who actually make our decisions in Washington DC were as principled as the characters on this show.
At the Movies
Anne of Avonlea
First, these were my favorite books. Then, they were my favorite miniseries on PBS and later The Disney Channel. They were loaned to me by a friend so that Natalie could experience them too. We watched Anne of Green Gables immediately, then we got distracted and busy. (As mentioned above.) No one was more horrified than me to realize that the DVD's were still in my possession when my friend sent out a FB message to several of us looking for them. Fortunately, she lives close to where I work, so we agreed to meet there while I set up my office last week so I could give them to her. (Did you see that? I have an office.) Natalie wanted to watch the rest of them before we gave them back, so we had a huge marathon on Tuesday. I loved Anne of Avonlea (aka Anne of Green Gables: The Sequel), but I could only handle the third one through Anne and Gil's wedding. I read and re-read Rilla of Ingleside about 100 times during my 8th grade year and it was Anne's sons who went to war, NOT Gilbert. I just couldn't wrap my mind around it, though it was nice to see how many of the original actors they gathered for the final movie. It shows on BYU TV from time to time, so I may still see it eventually.
Out and About
Back to School-
After all the supply and clothes shopping, we are now back into our school routine. I used to resent it. This year, it has returned a schedule and some normalcy to our lives-and this from a Mom who used to be desperate to home school. So far, so good...And also, spending $20 on backpacks with a lifetime guarantee seems to have been a better use of my money than buying one for $12 each year before school starts.
Back to Work
I start tomorrow, but taught for a couple of days last week and set up my desk and put the Exersaucer and a Pack n Play in my office for Alexis on the days she will be at work with me. I've never been so happy, so nervous, and so excited all at once! The timing and the circumstances worked out perfectly. I'm not sure how much I will blog in specific about my job, but know that it I am very happy with the situation. Especially the fact that "you can bring the baby to work on days you don't have kids to teach or meetings to attend."
Friday Night at Grandma's
Usually, I take the kids. They eat pizza, play computer games, and visit with their great-grandmother. This time, after they went home, Grandma, my uncle, and I talked for half the night about relatives my kids never knew and that even my younger sisters barely remember. I know I am lucky to have my grandmother and both of my paternal grandparents with me at my age. Not even my kids can say that. And I am very grateful for evenings like this. Also, I have one crazy, wonderful, loving family.
And that's all for this week. With a new job starting tomorrow, a Meatloaf concert on Tuesday, and four kids experiencing their first full week of school...who knows what will happen in the week to come!
Reading
Percy Jackson and the Olympians: Battle of the Labyrinth by Rick Riordan
We will finish this later tonight! I have to say that it's not my favorite book, but reading it through aloud to the kids (I always read them to myself first) has given me more appreciation for it. Book 5 is my favorite and we will start it next week. It's hard to write these reviews without giving away spoilers, but some of the things I have appreciated about this book (and its predecessors) have been the renewed interest my kids have in US geography, Greek mythology, and creative writing/play. Caroline has been writing Greek 'myths' all summer and acting out parts of the book with Elisa (and Tristan when she can rope him into it). And I love events in the book taking place in tourist spots I have visited with the kids: the St. Louis Arch, Arizona, Florida, etc...because the kids really relate to it. All in all, these books will represent the summer of 2010 to my kids and I'm sorry to see them coming to an end.
Watching-
19 Kids and Counting-
Do you think Jim Bob and Michelle took comfort in knowing that not only would their oldest set of twins be together in Southeast Asia, but that a camera crew would be there too? I'm glad though, I've really enjoyed seeing their trip. Also, I'm glad Baby Josie is almost ready to go home. And yes, it is amusing watching Jim Bob on his own with most of the kids, BUT he isn't nearly as inept as the commercial spoilers make him out to be and it irritates me a bit. Kind of like how their cover on People magazine read "WE ARE READY FOR MORE" (babies), but in their interview all they said was 'We aren't going to prevent more, that's not our decision.' (A viewpoint I respect, but lack the necessary faith to follow through with myself. I'm more of a "Let's quit while I still have bladder control" kind of gal. Anyway...) I also wonder why so many visits to the Bates? Could there be some kind of courtship involved? Just curious...
The West Wing, Season 6
I realize that one of the very telling hints as to how odd I am would have to be my love for these two very divergent TV series, but it's just part of the fun of being me. My husband may not love this show, but he bought all 7 seasons for me as a Christmas gift a couple of years ago. I flew through the first 5 seasons, then I got busy with other things and stopped watching them. It wasn't because I didn't love the show, I do! It's just a busy thing to have 5 kids and a job. A few weeks ago, I happened across the show on the Bravo channel and realized I was watching one of the final episodes. That reminded me that I still had two unwatched (and commercial-free) DVD boxed sets in my possession. I finished Season 6 on Saturday. Now that school has started and I start working tomorrow, who knows how long it will take to see Season 7? But I'm determined to see it through by Christmas. I think the writing, direction, and acting on this show made it the highest quality TV series I will see in my lifetime. And I wish the three branches of government who actually make our decisions in Washington DC were as principled as the characters on this show.
At the Movies
Anne of Avonlea
First, these were my favorite books. Then, they were my favorite miniseries on PBS and later The Disney Channel. They were loaned to me by a friend so that Natalie could experience them too. We watched Anne of Green Gables immediately, then we got distracted and busy. (As mentioned above.) No one was more horrified than me to realize that the DVD's were still in my possession when my friend sent out a FB message to several of us looking for them. Fortunately, she lives close to where I work, so we agreed to meet there while I set up my office last week so I could give them to her. (Did you see that? I have an office.) Natalie wanted to watch the rest of them before we gave them back, so we had a huge marathon on Tuesday. I loved Anne of Avonlea (aka Anne of Green Gables: The Sequel), but I could only handle the third one through Anne and Gil's wedding. I read and re-read Rilla of Ingleside about 100 times during my 8th grade year and it was Anne's sons who went to war, NOT Gilbert. I just couldn't wrap my mind around it, though it was nice to see how many of the original actors they gathered for the final movie. It shows on BYU TV from time to time, so I may still see it eventually.
Out and About
Back to School-
After all the supply and clothes shopping, we are now back into our school routine. I used to resent it. This year, it has returned a schedule and some normalcy to our lives-and this from a Mom who used to be desperate to home school. So far, so good...And also, spending $20 on backpacks with a lifetime guarantee seems to have been a better use of my money than buying one for $12 each year before school starts.
Back to Work
I start tomorrow, but taught for a couple of days last week and set up my desk and put the Exersaucer and a Pack n Play in my office for Alexis on the days she will be at work with me. I've never been so happy, so nervous, and so excited all at once! The timing and the circumstances worked out perfectly. I'm not sure how much I will blog in specific about my job, but know that it I am very happy with the situation. Especially the fact that "you can bring the baby to work on days you don't have kids to teach or meetings to attend."
Friday Night at Grandma's
Usually, I take the kids. They eat pizza, play computer games, and visit with their great-grandmother. This time, after they went home, Grandma, my uncle, and I talked for half the night about relatives my kids never knew and that even my younger sisters barely remember. I know I am lucky to have my grandmother and both of my paternal grandparents with me at my age. Not even my kids can say that. And I am very grateful for evenings like this. Also, I have one crazy, wonderful, loving family.
And that's all for this week. With a new job starting tomorrow, a Meatloaf concert on Tuesday, and four kids experiencing their first full week of school...who knows what will happen in the week to come!
Sunday, August 08, 2010
Week In Review
Reading-
Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Titan's Curse-
We were up late reading this last night, and finished the last two chapters today. I forgot how emotional I can get while reading a book until we hit the last few chapters of this one. Wow! At least Caroline was crying with me. While I post updates on the progress the kids and I make together on the books, I have read ahead through the entire series now. Supposedly, this is to keep me from getting so caught up in the books that I don't read them clearly. But, it didn't work for parts of Book 3, and I will be in BIG trouble by the time we finish Book 5. I was just proud of myself for not crying on the plane while I read it on Monday's flight home.
Watching-
19 Kids and Counting-
The new season debuted last week. My friends don't get my fascination, but I think I just like to have someone to compare myself to when someone tells me I have "too many children." Also, their debt-free lifestyle intrigues me as does the very happy marriage of Michelle and Jim Bob. People mock them, I may have been guilty of it myself, but you have to admit; it really works for them. I am very relieved that Baby Josie will finally be going home and I really like that they let Jana and John David go on a mission trip by themselves. They are about the age that I was when I went on MY mission and I can't think of a better way to have transitioned myself from student to real-world adult. I had a very nice get-together with some old friends a few weeks ago. They are no longer practicing members of my church (how we originally met), but I was pleasantly surprised to hear that in spite of everything; they are both glad they served missions. And you know, regardless of how frustrated I get with people at church here and there, I feel the same way. I think serving my mission was, independent of any religious motive, one of the single best decisions I ever made as a young adult.
At the Movies-
Clash of the Titans-
I had no desire to ever see this without having to use 3D glasses, so of course Dave bought it on Blu-ray. I have to say, the alternate ending actually made sense. So naturally that didn't use that one. Dave has a friend who wants to borrow this. I hope we never see it again.
Out and About-
From Sketch to Screen at the OKC Museum of Art-
This was such a neat exhibit! My friends and I met for lunch and a museum visit yesterday afternoon. It was lovely and definitely worth the time and money (though it was free for those who had Bank of America cards, which sadly I did not.) It's only here through August 15th, so it's now or never if you had any intention of seeing it before it moves on to its next destination. Oh, and the caprese salad at the Museum Cafe? It's everything I thought it would be, and I used to live in Italy; so that's saying something.
Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Titan's Curse-
We were up late reading this last night, and finished the last two chapters today. I forgot how emotional I can get while reading a book until we hit the last few chapters of this one. Wow! At least Caroline was crying with me. While I post updates on the progress the kids and I make together on the books, I have read ahead through the entire series now. Supposedly, this is to keep me from getting so caught up in the books that I don't read them clearly. But, it didn't work for parts of Book 3, and I will be in BIG trouble by the time we finish Book 5. I was just proud of myself for not crying on the plane while I read it on Monday's flight home.
Watching-
19 Kids and Counting-
The new season debuted last week. My friends don't get my fascination, but I think I just like to have someone to compare myself to when someone tells me I have "too many children." Also, their debt-free lifestyle intrigues me as does the very happy marriage of Michelle and Jim Bob. People mock them, I may have been guilty of it myself, but you have to admit; it really works for them. I am very relieved that Baby Josie will finally be going home and I really like that they let Jana and John David go on a mission trip by themselves. They are about the age that I was when I went on MY mission and I can't think of a better way to have transitioned myself from student to real-world adult. I had a very nice get-together with some old friends a few weeks ago. They are no longer practicing members of my church (how we originally met), but I was pleasantly surprised to hear that in spite of everything; they are both glad they served missions. And you know, regardless of how frustrated I get with people at church here and there, I feel the same way. I think serving my mission was, independent of any religious motive, one of the single best decisions I ever made as a young adult.
At the Movies-
Clash of the Titans-
I had no desire to ever see this without having to use 3D glasses, so of course Dave bought it on Blu-ray. I have to say, the alternate ending actually made sense. So naturally that didn't use that one. Dave has a friend who wants to borrow this. I hope we never see it again.
Out and About-
From Sketch to Screen at the OKC Museum of Art-
This was such a neat exhibit! My friends and I met for lunch and a museum visit yesterday afternoon. It was lovely and definitely worth the time and money (though it was free for those who had Bank of America cards, which sadly I did not.) It's only here through August 15th, so it's now or never if you had any intention of seeing it before it moves on to its next destination. Oh, and the caprese salad at the Museum Cafe? It's everything I thought it would be, and I used to live in Italy; so that's saying something.
Sunday, June 06, 2010
Week In Review
Reading-
Percy Jackson & The Olympians Book One: The Lightening Thief by Rick Riordan-
We are about halfway through the first book now. As a Classics major, I am LOVING it. As a kid who never quite fits in, Tristan loves this book. As two very smart girls trying to help their brother make sense of his world; Natalie and Caroline love this book. Elisa is interested on and off while I read, but she also just turned 6. She has time. Regardless, this is a great family reading time book.
Little Bo by Julie Andrews-
We finished this a few days ago. This held Elisa's interest much better and it was a very sweet little book. I recommend it for little girls. As soon as Amazon.com ships them, we are going to pick up where we left off a few summers ago with the Tomie DePaola Fairmount Street series. I'll be sure and review it all here.
Almost Our Time: Generation X Takes on America's Challenges by Rob Stam
I rarely read non-fiction, but this was worth my time. It's a very honest take on things my generation needs to do to 'fix' America as we take over from the Baby Boomers. I thought it had good, sound advice. I have the Amazon Kindle reader app on my iPhone and ordered this as an eBook for $0.99. It is worth more than that and I highly recommend it for anyone interested in economics and politics who haven't already make their mind up completely about either.
Watching
Glee-
I can't believe it's almost the end of the season. Wah! I can't wait to see what Tuesday night has in store for us. I think the best parts of last week's episode for me were "I love me some trophies" for the laugh factor and "You're not mad, you're hurt" for the "aww!" factor.
At the Movies
Sex and the City 2
No, it wasn't as good as the first one. Yes, I liked it. Liza's cameo was by far my favorite thing, but it had other moments too. Then again, I went to see this with Chris, Lanie, and Wendy; and I could probably watch paint dry with them and think it's a good time just because we're together. So here's to friends you could enjoy anything with! Here's to Diet Dr. Pepper toasts between Wendy and I as moms who DON'T have nannies, and here's to spending as long chatting in the parking lot as you did watching the entire movie. Good times!
Extracurricular Activities-
Grand Assembly 2010-
I've already blogged about this, but it really was an Alice in Wonderland experience to see everything I used to do as a teen through the eyes of an adult. I half-expected Johnny Depp to tell me I had lost my "muchness," except that I can feel my 'muchness' returning a little bit more each day. It's definitely NOT gone. :)
Elisa's Birthday-
Since she and one of my nieces have birthdays within a week of each other we threw a joint party in my sister's backyard. Then again, between my kids, my sisters' kids, and my sister's boyfriend's kids; it's a party before we even send out invitations. It was a lot of fun and a lot of chaos and, frankly, I'm glad it's over. The next birthday for us will be Alexis 1st in August. Wah!
Next week is shaping up to be crazy/busy too...stay tuned for more updates!
Percy Jackson & The Olympians Book One: The Lightening Thief by Rick Riordan-
We are about halfway through the first book now. As a Classics major, I am LOVING it. As a kid who never quite fits in, Tristan loves this book. As two very smart girls trying to help their brother make sense of his world; Natalie and Caroline love this book. Elisa is interested on and off while I read, but she also just turned 6. She has time. Regardless, this is a great family reading time book.
Little Bo by Julie Andrews-
We finished this a few days ago. This held Elisa's interest much better and it was a very sweet little book. I recommend it for little girls. As soon as Amazon.com ships them, we are going to pick up where we left off a few summers ago with the Tomie DePaola Fairmount Street series. I'll be sure and review it all here.
Almost Our Time: Generation X Takes on America's Challenges by Rob Stam
I rarely read non-fiction, but this was worth my time. It's a very honest take on things my generation needs to do to 'fix' America as we take over from the Baby Boomers. I thought it had good, sound advice. I have the Amazon Kindle reader app on my iPhone and ordered this as an eBook for $0.99. It is worth more than that and I highly recommend it for anyone interested in economics and politics who haven't already make their mind up completely about either.
Watching
Glee-
I can't believe it's almost the end of the season. Wah! I can't wait to see what Tuesday night has in store for us. I think the best parts of last week's episode for me were "I love me some trophies" for the laugh factor and "You're not mad, you're hurt" for the "aww!" factor.
At the Movies
Sex and the City 2
No, it wasn't as good as the first one. Yes, I liked it. Liza's cameo was by far my favorite thing, but it had other moments too. Then again, I went to see this with Chris, Lanie, and Wendy; and I could probably watch paint dry with them and think it's a good time just because we're together. So here's to friends you could enjoy anything with! Here's to Diet Dr. Pepper toasts between Wendy and I as moms who DON'T have nannies, and here's to spending as long chatting in the parking lot as you did watching the entire movie. Good times!
Extracurricular Activities-
Grand Assembly 2010-
I've already blogged about this, but it really was an Alice in Wonderland experience to see everything I used to do as a teen through the eyes of an adult. I half-expected Johnny Depp to tell me I had lost my "muchness," except that I can feel my 'muchness' returning a little bit more each day. It's definitely NOT gone. :)
Elisa's Birthday-
Since she and one of my nieces have birthdays within a week of each other we threw a joint party in my sister's backyard. Then again, between my kids, my sisters' kids, and my sister's boyfriend's kids; it's a party before we even send out invitations. It was a lot of fun and a lot of chaos and, frankly, I'm glad it's over. The next birthday for us will be Alexis 1st in August. Wah!
Next week is shaping up to be crazy/busy too...stay tuned for more updates!
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Week In Review
Reading-
Percy Jackson and The Lightening Thief-
It's been awhile since I read to my kids consistently. I saw this on the shelf at Wal-Mart and thought it was a good way to start again. We've only read the first four chapters, but everyone is hooked already.
Little Bo by Julie Andrews-
I remember her plugging this book on the Rosie O'Donnell show and planning on buying a copy. I found it for $0.50 at a thrift store and bought it to read to the younger girls in case Percy Jackson was too scary for them. So far, they love both. And so do I.
Watching-
Almost everything I usually watch is sitting on the DVR owing to a busy week, but I did make time for...
Grey's Anatomy Season Finale-
Oh. My. Goodness!! SO Creepy! So Compelling! It was a little too much like a horror movie for someone as jumpy as I am, but I am still really impressed by the writing and acting because I didn't see how they could make that storyline believable and they really, really did.
This Week's Misadventures-
My last two days teaching at the Harn (at least until Summer Camp starts), a pediatrician's visit that happened just 20 minutes after I called the office and revealed a double ear infection in a kid that I wasn't sure was sick when we went, an Academic awards ceremony where I went out of my way to avoid making polite chit-chat with my OBGYN, a return to Family Game Night at my Grandmother's, and a special viewing of the LOST finale even though we never really watched the series.
Percy Jackson and The Lightening Thief-
It's been awhile since I read to my kids consistently. I saw this on the shelf at Wal-Mart and thought it was a good way to start again. We've only read the first four chapters, but everyone is hooked already.
Little Bo by Julie Andrews-
I remember her plugging this book on the Rosie O'Donnell show and planning on buying a copy. I found it for $0.50 at a thrift store and bought it to read to the younger girls in case Percy Jackson was too scary for them. So far, they love both. And so do I.
Watching-
Almost everything I usually watch is sitting on the DVR owing to a busy week, but I did make time for...
Grey's Anatomy Season Finale-
Oh. My. Goodness!! SO Creepy! So Compelling! It was a little too much like a horror movie for someone as jumpy as I am, but I am still really impressed by the writing and acting because I didn't see how they could make that storyline believable and they really, really did.
This Week's Misadventures-
My last two days teaching at the Harn (at least until Summer Camp starts), a pediatrician's visit that happened just 20 minutes after I called the office and revealed a double ear infection in a kid that I wasn't sure was sick when we went, an Academic awards ceremony where I went out of my way to avoid making polite chit-chat with my OBGYN, a return to Family Game Night at my Grandmother's, and a special viewing of the LOST finale even though we never really watched the series.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Week In Review
Does anyone remember these? I used to write one every Sunday. Now that my little one is almost a year-old, life seems to have resumed it's usual rhyme and reason and I'm going to try and resume writing these. Blogging more than once a week is also a goal, we'll see how that goes. Anyway...
Reading
Pure Pleasure: Why Do Christians Feel So Bad about Feeling Good? by Gary Thomas
This was one of those free Kindle downloads on Amazon.com. I started reading it on the 2.5 hour plane ride from Houston to Phoenix because Alexis had fallen asleep on my lap and I didn't have any other entertainment within arm's reach. It's taken me a few weeks to finish it, but I have to say I LOVED its message even though Mr. Thomas would get many tsk tsks from my church friends for being such a fan of Starbucks coffee. The point made throughout this book is that God WANTS us to find joy in our earthly lives without feeling guilty about it, and it is illustrated through countless examples that made me smile, laugh, and nod my head in fervent agreement. One of the many reasons I'm going through a bit of spiritual malaise lately is because I know I am missing that joy I first knew upon understanding what it truly means to be saved. It's not that my church doesn't believe in that joy and doesn't preach it, I just can't find it right now. Don't worry, I'm still looking. This book reminded me a lot of Chieko Okazaki's Lighten Up! and I can't give it higher praise than that.
Watching
Gary England-
No, he's not some new talk show host. He's my favorite weather forecaster in the Metro area. This is tornado season here in the great state of Oklahoma and Gary (and his storm chasers) have been very busy this month, and this week in particular. I am watching some particularly nasty storms passing through the area where my good friend Lanie lives as I type this. (Hope you, Dirk, and the doggies are safe; Lanie!) And it will likely pass from there to where my Dad and Aunt M are shortly after that (In fact, it's there now. Yikes!). So we aren't changing the channel any time soon. At the time of Monday's tornado outbreak (which was very scary even though we were never in all that much danger), I didn't care so much about missing The Big Bang Theory. But at this point if anyone wants to tell me what happened, it turns out I'm kind of curious now. (I know, I know; I can probably watch it online.)
Glee-
I started DVR'ing these after hearing good things about the show. I missed the first month and was DETERMINED not to start watching it until I had ALL the episodes taped. However, once Natalie heard there was a show about teens singing show tunes AND she found it in the "My Recordings" menu, there was no denying her. So, we started watching them out of the proper order a couple of weeks ago. (If you knew how unheard of that was for me, you would be stunned I allowed it to happen-but Natalie is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to her show tunes.) Thanks to yesterday's DVD purchase, we are now officially caught up on the show. And, more importantly, we LOVE it!
Grey's Anatomy-
Last week's episode reminded me why I still love this show despite all its behind-the scene ups and downs. I have to admit that next week's 'shooter on the loose in the hospital' plot makes me a little nervous in a shark-jumping kind of way. Here's hoping I'm wrong...And you know I will watch it anyway, so does it matter if I'm right?
Out and About-
Cirque Dreams-
Truth be told, we saw this a week ago yesterday. But I enjoyed it enough that it is worth mentioning even now. It's my favorite of the Cirque shows that I've seen (but keep in mind that I've only seen 2).
Unnamed Middle School Band/Choir concert-
There was a lot of trepidation about this because Miss Natalie auditioned successfully for a solo only to catch a cold in time for the show. I was nervous for her, but she rested her voice all day and nailed it perfectly. I was impressed with all the grades and their performances and enjoyed the concert. I thought this was going to be the last performance/recital of the year, but we have the Academic Awards reception tomorrow. How many days until school is out again?
That's all for this week! Thanks for reading!
Reading
Pure Pleasure: Why Do Christians Feel So Bad about Feeling Good? by Gary Thomas
This was one of those free Kindle downloads on Amazon.com. I started reading it on the 2.5 hour plane ride from Houston to Phoenix because Alexis had fallen asleep on my lap and I didn't have any other entertainment within arm's reach. It's taken me a few weeks to finish it, but I have to say I LOVED its message even though Mr. Thomas would get many tsk tsks from my church friends for being such a fan of Starbucks coffee. The point made throughout this book is that God WANTS us to find joy in our earthly lives without feeling guilty about it, and it is illustrated through countless examples that made me smile, laugh, and nod my head in fervent agreement. One of the many reasons I'm going through a bit of spiritual malaise lately is because I know I am missing that joy I first knew upon understanding what it truly means to be saved. It's not that my church doesn't believe in that joy and doesn't preach it, I just can't find it right now. Don't worry, I'm still looking. This book reminded me a lot of Chieko Okazaki's Lighten Up! and I can't give it higher praise than that.
Watching
Gary England-
No, he's not some new talk show host. He's my favorite weather forecaster in the Metro area. This is tornado season here in the great state of Oklahoma and Gary (and his storm chasers) have been very busy this month, and this week in particular. I am watching some particularly nasty storms passing through the area where my good friend Lanie lives as I type this. (Hope you, Dirk, and the doggies are safe; Lanie!) And it will likely pass from there to where my Dad and Aunt M are shortly after that (In fact, it's there now. Yikes!). So we aren't changing the channel any time soon. At the time of Monday's tornado outbreak (which was very scary even though we were never in all that much danger), I didn't care so much about missing The Big Bang Theory. But at this point if anyone wants to tell me what happened, it turns out I'm kind of curious now. (I know, I know; I can probably watch it online.)
Glee-
I started DVR'ing these after hearing good things about the show. I missed the first month and was DETERMINED not to start watching it until I had ALL the episodes taped. However, once Natalie heard there was a show about teens singing show tunes AND she found it in the "My Recordings" menu, there was no denying her. So, we started watching them out of the proper order a couple of weeks ago. (If you knew how unheard of that was for me, you would be stunned I allowed it to happen-but Natalie is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to her show tunes.) Thanks to yesterday's DVD purchase, we are now officially caught up on the show. And, more importantly, we LOVE it!
Grey's Anatomy-
Last week's episode reminded me why I still love this show despite all its behind-the scene ups and downs. I have to admit that next week's 'shooter on the loose in the hospital' plot makes me a little nervous in a shark-jumping kind of way. Here's hoping I'm wrong...And you know I will watch it anyway, so does it matter if I'm right?
Out and About-
Cirque Dreams-
Truth be told, we saw this a week ago yesterday. But I enjoyed it enough that it is worth mentioning even now. It's my favorite of the Cirque shows that I've seen (but keep in mind that I've only seen 2).
Unnamed Middle School Band/Choir concert-
There was a lot of trepidation about this because Miss Natalie auditioned successfully for a solo only to catch a cold in time for the show. I was nervous for her, but she rested her voice all day and nailed it perfectly. I was impressed with all the grades and their performances and enjoyed the concert. I thought this was going to be the last performance/recital of the year, but we have the Academic Awards reception tomorrow. How many days until school is out again?
That's all for this week! Thanks for reading!
Thursday, March 11, 2010
How I've Spent My Blogger Vacation
I didn't mean to go so long between posts, so I thought I would share some of the "fun" activities currently preventing me from blogging:
- Church and community service-At the moment, I am Norman Rainbow's Mother Advisor and 1st Counselor in the Primary Presidency. Norman Lodge just hosted an official visit and Natalie's initiation was part of that. There were also a few planning meetings in there too.
- 3D Movies: Also part of the Norman Lodge festivities was a night at The Warren seeing Alice in Wonderland in 3D. I've never seen a 3D movie before and I loved it (both the movie and the experience).
- Being offline. Our Internet is a line-of-sight account on campus. We've had paperless billing with them for so long that I no longer remember their company name or phone number. When the service goes out, I just have to wait for them to fix it since I can't call and complain. I fear the day they go out of business and don't tell me because I likely won't know it's happened for a week or so. On the plus side, I got to bed much earlier last night and accomplished much more this morning before Dave texted me to ask if it was up and running again and it was. For someone as Internet-addicted as I am, it turns out I didn't miss it all that much. Not that I'm crazy enough to cancel it anytime soon. And that's good since I don't know who to call anyway. ;)
- Apparently, Dave knows who to call. He is reading this over my shoulder and told me that. I suppose I should ask him. But I very much enjoyed telling the kids truthfully yesterday that it was broken and I didn't know who to call about it. They did their homework and played games. It was awesome!
- Introducing Alexis to solids. She likes them well-enough, but she takes about 30 minutes to consume one small dish of baby food and does this as messily as possible.
- Dealing with endless calls and emails from Tristan's teacher. Apparently, he wants her to really earn her spring break this year and he wants to be grounded for all of his. I will likely be posting at length about this if I get some time. I left the school in tears today and so did Tristan. Sigh.
- Trying to get Alexis to sleep in her crib all night. Solid foods are going MUCH better. Yawn.
- Taking kids to the dentist. Hard, un-flouridated water has NOT been kind to our teeth, the kids' teeth in particular. Also, Caroline's thumb-sucking habit turned out to be just as bad on her teeth as all the naysayers warned me it would be when she was a baby. So not only do I have to pay for the dental work, I get to listen to some rather annoying "I told you so's." We all know how much I LUV that.
- Trying, failing, and trying again to get the house clean so that we can get the roof replaced. We are finally giving up on being 100% ready before we start getting the estimates because this project needs to get started ASAP. If it doesn't rain this weekend, Dave and I are tackling the garage, yard, and sheds (Yes, that's a purposeful plural. The house came with two.) It's almost enough to make me pray for rain. But then that's no good on our leaky roof.
- Trying to implement some 'greener' lifestyle habits. I've already written about the clotheslines and cloth diapers and today I unearthed our recycling bin in the mud room. (Our service is outside city limits and doesn't qualify for the city recycling service, and I let it slide while hugely pregnant. I think I can handle taking it into town and sorting it again.)
- Falling in love with the new Parenthood TV series. I loved the original movie so much, I had my doubts. But it's great to have Lauren Graham back on Tuesday nights AND see another couple struggling with their son-even if they are just pretending.
- Being too annoyed/irritated to blog. Believe it or not, I'm trying to blog with a better attitude. Rather than improving the quality of my posts though, it just seems to limit their frequency. In a nutshell, I still don't like to be told what to do, to be judged by people who've never bothered to get to know me, or shopping and/or driving in traffic with idiots. Do that math and see how many times a day I get grouchy and my lack of posts makes a lot more sense.
Hopefully I'll write something better soon!
Monday, November 30, 2009
Music Monday: For Katrina
Recently one of my favorite author bloggers mentioned to me on Facebook that she didn't know who Jimmy Fallon was. This likely reflects that she has more refined taste in entertainment than I do. Still...it made my choice for today's featured video much easier. (Psst Katrina, he's the one playing the keyboard.)
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Week In Review
Reading
A Sane Woman's Guide to Raising a Large Family by Mary Ostyn-
This was written by a very popular blogger who is also a mother of ten. I splurged when ordering family Christmas presents from Amazon.com and added this for myself. I felt a little guilty for spending on me when there are gifts to buy, but let's face it: no one was going to buy it for me, and it isn't at our local library. I haven't finished reading it yet, but I already know that I love this book. It isn't so much a 'how to' as it is a 'you already are,' but the affirmation is nice. I don't have the book handy at the moment, but there is a good quote in there about not letting the greeter at Wal-Mart's opinion on your family size determine your own feelings about it. And I can definitely agree with that. I also wonder if she's ever shopped at our Wal-Mart. Anyway, her book is really helping me embrace the truth that I am, indeed, a mother of many and I recommend it to anyone with three kids or more.
Watching
I would be embarrassed to own up to the number of shows sitting on my DVR right now, so I won't. I did manage the last 30 minutes of the last Jon and Kate Plus 8 and the latest Duggar adventures. I feel sad for Jon, no really, I do. He is throwing away happiness with both hands (as they said in Gone With the Wind) and he doesn't even realize it. I got teary-eyed when I heard Kate talk about the driver's seat. And while being on the show may factor in, I think Jon has a lot of nerve suggesting ALL of his kids' behaviors are the fault of the show. I'm sure they have nothing to do with Dad moving out, living the swinging bachelor life in NYC, hooking up with a 22 year-old, AND saying he despises their mother on national TV.
On a slightly related note, I am more of a Kate than a Michelle Duggar when it comes to dealing with my husband. And yet...as much as I hate the idea of being absolutely submissive to one's spouse, she seems really happy and so does her husband. It's something I've been thinking about a lot lately. (Amusingly, I typed this just as my husband just came in and informed me that were out of a kitchen staple that should still be in the refrigerator had someone not used it all up without permission. Oh well...)
I also caught this year's Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Someday, I will see it live. Until then, I would just like to thank its organizers for including the Muppets, Jimmy Fallon, AND Cyndi Lauper all in one show. And now that I've seen the parade, the holidays can begin...
At the Movies
New Moon-
Even the opening credits let me know that this was a better quality film than the first one. I didn't have to laugh at the cheesiness NEAR as much this time, nor did I cringe in embarrassment for the actors at all. I definitely like the series better with more Jacob and less Edward. There was one change to the book that I could have lived without, but two other changes that I definitely thought worked better for the storyline. I took Natalie with me this time. She is insistent on reading Eclipse now, and given the way that she mocked Bella and how she gets when Edward is around; I just might have to let her do it. Natalie doesn't like to see movies without reading to book first though, and since the movie doesn't come out until June, I still have more time to think about it. My worry has always been that she will think an Edward/Bella lovefest is THE relationship standard because I did at her age even without those books to guide me and it made for a very unpleasant experience for me the first time I had a serious boyfriend. (Then again, my generation read Flowers in the Attic, so who am I to worry about what's in the Twilight books?) But while Natalie looks like me, it's becoming very clear that her thinking is very different from mine. And if she is able to see the books as nothing more than an enjoyable diversion (like her mom does), then I will let her move forward in the series. I guess...I mean, a human girl who can't have sex with her vampire boyfriend does seem a lot less harmful than all the incest and other ickiness my girlfriends and I absorbed from the V.C. Andrew's books when we were her age, right?
Out and About
How is it that I keep going to Tulsa to see family and keep missing out on a quick trip to Whole Foods Market? Annoying! I know I won't love the place as much as Trader Joe's, but it's my only option outside of Albuquerque, Santa Fe, or St. Louis. We do have an organic grocery store here in town, but it is very small and prices its items accordingly. I want to see a bigger store with (supposedly) more competitive prices.
Otherwise all was well with both families and it was nice to visit both the Gregg and Lawson sides this year. Dave's favorite aunt, her granddaughter (a cousin) and his sister and her family were all here. My father-in-law even put up a picture of my kids in honor of the occasion. (Can I tell you how much it hurts to go over there and not see one? It was a nice change.) Here's hoping it stays up when Aunt P goes back to Florida at the end of the week.
So basically, good food, lots of family, a day with Natalie and my friends, and no morning routine for three days last week make me a very happy mom who has to get back into her routine tomorrow. I hope everyone else had as good a week as I did!
A Sane Woman's Guide to Raising a Large Family by Mary Ostyn-
This was written by a very popular blogger who is also a mother of ten. I splurged when ordering family Christmas presents from Amazon.com and added this for myself. I felt a little guilty for spending on me when there are gifts to buy, but let's face it: no one was going to buy it for me, and it isn't at our local library. I haven't finished reading it yet, but I already know that I love this book. It isn't so much a 'how to' as it is a 'you already are,' but the affirmation is nice. I don't have the book handy at the moment, but there is a good quote in there about not letting the greeter at Wal-Mart's opinion on your family size determine your own feelings about it. And I can definitely agree with that. I also wonder if she's ever shopped at our Wal-Mart. Anyway, her book is really helping me embrace the truth that I am, indeed, a mother of many and I recommend it to anyone with three kids or more.
Watching
I would be embarrassed to own up to the number of shows sitting on my DVR right now, so I won't. I did manage the last 30 minutes of the last Jon and Kate Plus 8 and the latest Duggar adventures. I feel sad for Jon, no really, I do. He is throwing away happiness with both hands (as they said in Gone With the Wind) and he doesn't even realize it. I got teary-eyed when I heard Kate talk about the driver's seat. And while being on the show may factor in, I think Jon has a lot of nerve suggesting ALL of his kids' behaviors are the fault of the show. I'm sure they have nothing to do with Dad moving out, living the swinging bachelor life in NYC, hooking up with a 22 year-old, AND saying he despises their mother on national TV.
On a slightly related note, I am more of a Kate than a Michelle Duggar when it comes to dealing with my husband. And yet...as much as I hate the idea of being absolutely submissive to one's spouse, she seems really happy and so does her husband. It's something I've been thinking about a lot lately. (Amusingly, I typed this just as my husband just came in and informed me that were out of a kitchen staple that should still be in the refrigerator had someone not used it all up without permission. Oh well...)
I also caught this year's Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Someday, I will see it live. Until then, I would just like to thank its organizers for including the Muppets, Jimmy Fallon, AND Cyndi Lauper all in one show. And now that I've seen the parade, the holidays can begin...
At the Movies
New Moon-
Even the opening credits let me know that this was a better quality film than the first one. I didn't have to laugh at the cheesiness NEAR as much this time, nor did I cringe in embarrassment for the actors at all. I definitely like the series better with more Jacob and less Edward. There was one change to the book that I could have lived without, but two other changes that I definitely thought worked better for the storyline. I took Natalie with me this time. She is insistent on reading Eclipse now, and given the way that she mocked Bella and how she gets when Edward is around; I just might have to let her do it. Natalie doesn't like to see movies without reading to book first though, and since the movie doesn't come out until June, I still have more time to think about it. My worry has always been that she will think an Edward/Bella lovefest is THE relationship standard because I did at her age even without those books to guide me and it made for a very unpleasant experience for me the first time I had a serious boyfriend. (Then again, my generation read Flowers in the Attic, so who am I to worry about what's in the Twilight books?) But while Natalie looks like me, it's becoming very clear that her thinking is very different from mine. And if she is able to see the books as nothing more than an enjoyable diversion (like her mom does), then I will let her move forward in the series. I guess...I mean, a human girl who can't have sex with her vampire boyfriend does seem a lot less harmful than all the incest and other ickiness my girlfriends and I absorbed from the V.C. Andrew's books when we were her age, right?
Out and About
How is it that I keep going to Tulsa to see family and keep missing out on a quick trip to Whole Foods Market? Annoying! I know I won't love the place as much as Trader Joe's, but it's my only option outside of Albuquerque, Santa Fe, or St. Louis. We do have an organic grocery store here in town, but it is very small and prices its items accordingly. I want to see a bigger store with (supposedly) more competitive prices.
Otherwise all was well with both families and it was nice to visit both the Gregg and Lawson sides this year. Dave's favorite aunt, her granddaughter (a cousin) and his sister and her family were all here. My father-in-law even put up a picture of my kids in honor of the occasion. (Can I tell you how much it hurts to go over there and not see one? It was a nice change.) Here's hoping it stays up when Aunt P goes back to Florida at the end of the week.
So basically, good food, lots of family, a day with Natalie and my friends, and no morning routine for three days last week make me a very happy mom who has to get back into her routine tomorrow. I hope everyone else had as good a week as I did!
Thursday, November 26, 2009
My 'Happy' List
One of my earliest mission companions used to make a daily list of things that made her happy. Today seems like a good day for a 'happy' list here too:
- Five beautiful children and the feeling that being their mother is what I was born to do.
- Friends I've had since high school who love me for who I am and often in spite of it. Love you guys!
- The handful great women I've befriended since high school. Lately, I've come to realize that who I really am doesn't come across very well in person and sometimes not even when I write; as I get older I find that I don't really need other people's favorable opinions to validate me-and yet your love and respect certainly mean the world. Thank you.
- Two cars, no payments
- A house that doesn't make me want to cringe when I pull into the driveway. Keeping it that way is a challenge, but I'm taking it one day at a time.
- My sisters and their children and any time I get to see any of them
- Three living grandparents who all live within a 2-hour drive from us.
- Dave's aunt visiting from Florida
- At this very moment, John Stamos singing "Put On a Happy Face"
- THE MACY'S THANKSGIVING PARADE (I have loved it since childhood and don't feel like it OK to celebrate Christmas until Santa's sleigh has arrived in Herald Square.)
- The perfect bite of turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce (hasn't happened yet today, but it will!)
Thursday, November 05, 2009
Thursday Thirteen: Kids Shows That I Really Miss
Now that there is a bay-bee in the house again, it's reminded me of the things my other kids loved when they were little. When Natalie was a baby, she scremed non-stop any time that I put her down until Dave's sister suggested a Barney tape. It was just a lot of songs from many different episodes, but that, a VCR, and her bouncy seat allowed me to load the dishwasher in peace. Fortunately, the big purple dino is still around and hopefully still will be by the time Alexis is old enough to appreciate him. However, there are a lot of shows my older kids enjoyed that are gone now. Hopefully, I can come up with 13 of them:
- Nick Jr's Blue's Clues with Steve-Once he "went to college" the show was never the same. I never dreamed about kissing Joe.
- Disney Channel's Stanley-Cute little kid and lots of animals, such a fun show! Nothing they've come up with recently has come even close to it.
- Disney Channel's Out of the Box-True my sister and I called it "out of the closet" and mocked it the entire time it was on, but Juliet, Natalie, and Victoria loved it. Not that any of the 'trauma teens' would admit that now.
- Disney Channel's Bear in the Big Blue House-It was made by the Jim Henson Company. 'Nuff said.
- Animal Jam-Ditto to the above, but I can't remember what network carried it and it seems like they only made about 3 episodes. We danced and danced to that one.
- Nick Jr.'s Maisy-OK, the giant mouse and her weird animal friends kind of annoyed me. But it was the first show Natalie asked to watch and she was about 2. Who can resist that?
- Nickelodeon's Rugrats-I didn't care for the animation at first, but the "little sprouts" grew on me. I remember Selena and I taking Natalie and Tristan to the movie while Dave was deployed and I think we wanted to see it more than they did.
- Nickelodeon's The Wild Thornberries-If I liked the Rugrats, I LOVED this one. Tim Curry voiced Nigel Thornberry. Good stuff.
- Disney Channel's Kim Possible-I adored this show. I watched it without the kids. I still would if it was still on TV.
- The Original Electric Company-When Noggin was brand new, it ran old episodes of Sesame Street and Electric Company. I didn't appreciate it fully as a kid, but I really liked it the second time around. The new one is OK, but it will never compare.
- The Muppet Show-I mean the original series here, but the new one from the 90's would be OK too. Pretty much anything with Kermit...which sadly excludes the current epsiodes of Sesame Street.
- Bob the Builder-This may still be on air, but Tristan quit loving it years ago and Caroline and Elisa didn't care for it. I wonder if Bob and Wendy ever got together?
- Eureka's Castle-This was shown in reruns in the early days of Noggin. It was pretty much the cast of Bear in the Big Blue House BEFORE Bear in the Big Blue House. Natalie and Tristan loved it and I would sit there queasily pregnant with Caroline and enjoy the stillness for 20 minutes.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Music Monday
Having spent most of last week contemplating a return to my 'roots,' and even re-visiting the lodge for the first time in 15 years; I've been humming a very silly song to myself all week long. It's been stuck in my head, so now I'll share it with the rest of you:
And yes, I do remember watching this show with my Dad. And I do think it mildly influenced my degree in education. (This and "To Sir with Love." Awesome movie, that one.)
And yes, I do remember watching this show with my Dad. And I do think it mildly influenced my degree in education. (This and "To Sir with Love." Awesome movie, that one.)
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