The media coverage of the swine flu is driving me crazy! It has typically sane people turning into germ-phobes. Don't get me wrong, I am concerned to a certain point. I'm pregnant, so yes, it worries me. Andy was hospitalized with pneumonia after having influenza in 2000 (I was pregnant with Peter and had influenza too).
What I don't get is why we are waiting on each and every possible case. Every year, 36,000 Americans die from influenza whichever strain it is for that year. We almost never do a head count for who has it and who doesn't. Here in our area, we have 2 "probable" cases-one adult and one child. This has resulted in 4 schools being closed at least today and tomorrow, but possibly running into next week. Is it me or is the potential for pandemic making people panic?
30 April 2009
29 April 2009
Has this happened to you?
This is one of my favorite commercials-it actually gives me fits of giggles! And yes, it has happened...to Andy!
28 April 2009
More Michaelisms
Michael is continuing to surprise us with what he is saying. At 3 1/2, he really says some unexpected things.
For example, he is teaching his older brothers about the proper use of can/may. Drew will ask, "Michael, can I have that?" Michael says, "Yes, you MAY" (emphasizing the word may).
After the ultrasound yesterday, Peter and Drew were thrilled at the prospect of having a sister. Michael, however, is not. He heard Andy on the phone saying, "It's a girl." To which he responded, "No, Dad, it's a boy!" Later in the day, he told his cousin, Annie, "I say the baby is a boy, but Mom and Dad say it's a girl." In one last attempt at a boy, When asked what we should name the baby, he responded, "Boy." Poor thing!
For example, he is teaching his older brothers about the proper use of can/may. Drew will ask, "Michael, can I have that?" Michael says, "Yes, you MAY" (emphasizing the word may).
After the ultrasound yesterday, Peter and Drew were thrilled at the prospect of having a sister. Michael, however, is not. He heard Andy on the phone saying, "It's a girl." To which he responded, "No, Dad, it's a boy!" Later in the day, he told his cousin, Annie, "I say the baby is a boy, but Mom and Dad say it's a girl." In one last attempt at a boy, When asked what we should name the baby, he responded, "Boy." Poor thing!
27 April 2009
It's a...
GIRL!
Andy and I are reasonably confident with these results, having been confirmed by 3 people. The ultrasound tech has been doing ultrasounds for over 30 years, and that in and of itself made Andy say that yes, he believed her. We are really excited, but now we need to decide on a name. We had a name last time, and Andy thought we'd use that one, but I told him that I don't want that name now...LOL! Thanks for all of the prayers!
Ultrasound
I have to say that things went absolutely great today! Thanks for all of your prayers. I am always nervous until we get in and they start to take a look at things.
Baby is healthy! All measurements were perfect. Although, this stubborn baby wouldn't turn, and I have to have a repeat ultrasound in 4 weeks so they can get the last of the measurements. (Darn, I have to see this sweet baby again!).
So, now onto the discussion of gender. We do have an answer, but some of you (KIM) did not want to know...Here is what I am going to do...I am going to post immediately after this one, and title it "It's a..." If you don't want to know (KIM), then don't read it. OK? You have been warned!
26 April 2009
Tomorrow...
Tomorrow is my ultrasound! Please say a prayer that all goes well...I will post after I get home tomorrow morning.
24 April 2009
Q & A with Amy, Part 2
Amy's other question was how Andy proposed. I thought I would tell that story today.
After our first date, Andy and I got serious pretty quickly. We just knew this was it. About 3 weeks after we met, Andy crashed a wedding I was at (the couple didn't add and guest to the invite). He had been visiting his parents, and instead of going west to go home, he headed east to where I was at. He showed up at about 10, led me onto the dance floor and told me that he loved me. It was, perhaps, one of the most romantic moments of my life.
Until about 3 weeks later. I went to visit him for the weekend (and yes, I stayed in his room and he slept on the couch). When I got there, he had a dozen roses for me and a big stuffed teddy bear. We drove out to a lake and he told me of his intentions. He told me again that he loved me and planned to marry me one day, but didn't think we'd get engaged for about 2 years. I was OK with that. That was October.
In November, we started looking at rings, just for fun. All of our parents saw where this was heading. I was still thinking it would be a while out, and I was getting impatient.
We had plans to go to Omaha after Christmas to visit my sister. I am very close to my sisters, and he had already met one, but I wanted him to meet the other one. We would leave two days after Christmas and come back New Years Eve so we could celebrate with our friends. Unbeknownst to me, Andy had pulled aside my Mom on Christmas Eve and asked her if he could sit down and talk to my Dad when we got back.
The day after Christmas, my Dad sat me down and asked how I felt about "this young man." Dad and I had had a rough couple of months when Andy and I started dating. I think Dad knew that Andy was the one, but he also realized he would be losing his baby girl. He liked Andy, but was having a hard time with the reality of the situation. I told my Dad that I loved Andy with all my heart, and wanted to spend my life with him. The next day we left for Omaha.
We had a good time with my sister and her family. She had 5 kids at the time, and between her and my brother's family, Andy got a taste of what my family's life was like. We had a good time. The day we were to leave, I jokingly asked Andy if he had anything in his suitcase for me. He did, but instead said, "Go ahead and look." I declined, and am glad I did (later found out that the ring had traveled to Omaha with us).
When we got back home, I headed into the shower to get ready to go out. Andy headed into the basement with my Dad. I later found out that Andy had asked my Dad for my hand in marriage. Dad sat in this big recliner (which we now own), while Andy sat on a stool at his feet. Dad made a statement about not wanting Andy to think of him as a "Godfather" figure (yes, like the movie), and Andy said he didn't (Andy had, at that point, not seen the movie).
When I was almost ready, my Mom came into my room crying. I asked what was going on, and where Andy and Dad were, and what they were talking about. Mom said she couldn't say, she was sworn to secrecy. Later, as we left, my aunt who had come over with my uncle, and by that point knew what was going on, called out to us, "Call us later!"
We went to my friend, Kari's place where everyone was meeting before we went out. We got there first, and I pulled Kari aside and told that I thought Andy was going to propose that night. Andy overheard us, and turned into a jerk for the rest of the night. OK, not really a jerk, but I was annoyed with him. Andy and I have always been really good at reading each other, and that night, I just couldn't, and it was making me mad. Oh, and by the way, I was wearing his jacket, and THE RING WAS IN THE POCKET AND I NEVER KNEW IT!
As we were getting close to midnight (New Year's Eve), I told him that at 12, I wanted to say "Happy New Year" to everyone and go home. I was that annoyed. So, we said good-by ate midnight, and my best friend, Diane (who was slightly inebriated), started literally pounding on Andy's chest saying, "It's all your fault, I never see my best friend, and you're taking her away!" Seriously, Andy had welts on his chest from this.
So, we got in the car, and Andy said he wanted to take me somewhere, and profess his love to me. Seriously, I was so mad at him at this point that I forgot about the proposal possibility. I remember thinking, "I know you love me. I don't need to hear it AGAIN!"
He took me to a gazebo in downtown that was still decorated from Christmas, and told me he loved me, and got down on BOTH knees and proposed. I immediately said yes, and he hopped up and went back to the car. I was seriously confused by the whole thing, but he went to retrieve a music box that played Pachabel, and the ring which he put in it by that point. He got down on his knees and asked again, and of course, I said yes.
We called my parents who were ecstatic, and then Andy asked me if I wanted to go meet our friends again. We did, and Diane burst into tears because she did feel like he was taking away her best friend. I think we made up for this, though, because she stood up as my Maid of Honor, and ended up marrying Andy's cousin, our best man.
So, that is the story. We met in September, got engaged 4 months later and married the following Christmas. Andy is my best friend and soulmate, and I thank God several times a day for bringing us together!
After our first date, Andy and I got serious pretty quickly. We just knew this was it. About 3 weeks after we met, Andy crashed a wedding I was at (the couple didn't add and guest to the invite). He had been visiting his parents, and instead of going west to go home, he headed east to where I was at. He showed up at about 10, led me onto the dance floor and told me that he loved me. It was, perhaps, one of the most romantic moments of my life.
Until about 3 weeks later. I went to visit him for the weekend (and yes, I stayed in his room and he slept on the couch). When I got there, he had a dozen roses for me and a big stuffed teddy bear. We drove out to a lake and he told me of his intentions. He told me again that he loved me and planned to marry me one day, but didn't think we'd get engaged for about 2 years. I was OK with that. That was October.
In November, we started looking at rings, just for fun. All of our parents saw where this was heading. I was still thinking it would be a while out, and I was getting impatient.
We had plans to go to Omaha after Christmas to visit my sister. I am very close to my sisters, and he had already met one, but I wanted him to meet the other one. We would leave two days after Christmas and come back New Years Eve so we could celebrate with our friends. Unbeknownst to me, Andy had pulled aside my Mom on Christmas Eve and asked her if he could sit down and talk to my Dad when we got back.
The day after Christmas, my Dad sat me down and asked how I felt about "this young man." Dad and I had had a rough couple of months when Andy and I started dating. I think Dad knew that Andy was the one, but he also realized he would be losing his baby girl. He liked Andy, but was having a hard time with the reality of the situation. I told my Dad that I loved Andy with all my heart, and wanted to spend my life with him. The next day we left for Omaha.
We had a good time with my sister and her family. She had 5 kids at the time, and between her and my brother's family, Andy got a taste of what my family's life was like. We had a good time. The day we were to leave, I jokingly asked Andy if he had anything in his suitcase for me. He did, but instead said, "Go ahead and look." I declined, and am glad I did (later found out that the ring had traveled to Omaha with us).
When we got back home, I headed into the shower to get ready to go out. Andy headed into the basement with my Dad. I later found out that Andy had asked my Dad for my hand in marriage. Dad sat in this big recliner (which we now own), while Andy sat on a stool at his feet. Dad made a statement about not wanting Andy to think of him as a "Godfather" figure (yes, like the movie), and Andy said he didn't (Andy had, at that point, not seen the movie).
When I was almost ready, my Mom came into my room crying. I asked what was going on, and where Andy and Dad were, and what they were talking about. Mom said she couldn't say, she was sworn to secrecy. Later, as we left, my aunt who had come over with my uncle, and by that point knew what was going on, called out to us, "Call us later!"
We went to my friend, Kari's place where everyone was meeting before we went out. We got there first, and I pulled Kari aside and told that I thought Andy was going to propose that night. Andy overheard us, and turned into a jerk for the rest of the night. OK, not really a jerk, but I was annoyed with him. Andy and I have always been really good at reading each other, and that night, I just couldn't, and it was making me mad. Oh, and by the way, I was wearing his jacket, and THE RING WAS IN THE POCKET AND I NEVER KNEW IT!
As we were getting close to midnight (New Year's Eve), I told him that at 12, I wanted to say "Happy New Year" to everyone and go home. I was that annoyed. So, we said good-by ate midnight, and my best friend, Diane (who was slightly inebriated), started literally pounding on Andy's chest saying, "It's all your fault, I never see my best friend, and you're taking her away!" Seriously, Andy had welts on his chest from this.
So, we got in the car, and Andy said he wanted to take me somewhere, and profess his love to me. Seriously, I was so mad at him at this point that I forgot about the proposal possibility. I remember thinking, "I know you love me. I don't need to hear it AGAIN!"
He took me to a gazebo in downtown that was still decorated from Christmas, and told me he loved me, and got down on BOTH knees and proposed. I immediately said yes, and he hopped up and went back to the car. I was seriously confused by the whole thing, but he went to retrieve a music box that played Pachabel, and the ring which he put in it by that point. He got down on his knees and asked again, and of course, I said yes.
We called my parents who were ecstatic, and then Andy asked me if I wanted to go meet our friends again. We did, and Diane burst into tears because she did feel like he was taking away her best friend. I think we made up for this, though, because she stood up as my Maid of Honor, and ended up marrying Andy's cousin, our best man.
So, that is the story. We met in September, got engaged 4 months later and married the following Christmas. Andy is my best friend and soulmate, and I thank God several times a day for bringing us together!
Easter Cakes
I finally have uploaded the pictures from my camera! I had to make 2 cakes for Easter. My niece, Lauren asked for a bunny cake at my in-laws, so I had to oblige:
This is a yellow cake with butter cream frosting. The whiskers are pull and peel licorice and the bow tie is made of jelly beans. 
For my family's celebration, I made our annual lamb cake. It is a 7-up pound cake (my Mom's recipe, well, I guess it was my Grandma's
recipe first) with butter cream covered in coconut.
This year's had an addition-edible grass that I found at
Joann's. It was supposed to taste like green apple, but well, it wasn't that flavorful.
FX4 Project Progress 4/24/09
It's been a long time since I blogged about any projects.
In the past week, a couple of friends have had babies, so I made some hats and booties/mitts
(on the loom, of course!)
In the past week, a couple of friends have had babies, so I made some hats and booties/mitts
(on the loom, of course!)
Check out more fun at Candid Carrie!
22 April 2009
God is so good!
I just wanted to say that God is good. This has been a week where I have been a bit down, and God has sent me several reminders that He is here for me. First, a phone call from Kim yesterday. I hope she knows how much I needed it. Then, I saw my friend, Corinne, on the playground today, and we had a great talk (thanks, Cor!). Finally, I got the following email from my friend Lisa, and I think it says it all:
This is God. Today I will be handling All of your problems for you. I do Not need your help. So, have a nice day. I love you.
P.S. And, remember... If life happens to deliver a situation to you that you cannot handle, do Not attempt to resolve it yourself! Kindly put it in the SFGTD (something for God to do) box. I will get to it in MY TIME. All situations will be resolved, but in My time, not yours. Once the matter is placed into the box, do not hold onto it by worrying about it. Instead, focus on all the wonderful things that are present in your life now.
To: YOU
Date: TODAY
From:GOD
Subject: YOURSELF
Reference: LIFE
This is God. Today I will be handling All of your problems for you. I do Not need your help. So, have a nice day. I love you.
P.S. And, remember... If life happens to deliver a situation to you that you cannot handle, do Not attempt to resolve it yourself! Kindly put it in the SFGTD (something for God to do) box. I will get to it in MY TIME. All situations will be resolved, but in My time, not yours. Once the matter is placed into the box, do not hold onto it by worrying about it. Instead, focus on all the wonderful things that are present in your life now.
Q & A with Gramma to Many (Evy)
OK, Evy, it is your turn today...you asked about my first date with my hubby...
I waited a week for Andy to call after we had met. It was a long week. On Sunday, he finally called. He was back in town after having stood up in a friend's wedding the night before. He wanted to see me before heading back home. I should say at this point that I had very traditional parents, and they expected to meet him. I wasn't ready for that yet. So, Andy and I met at a central point, and I parked my car there. He would meet my folks another time, after I had time to figure out if this was going to go anywhere.
When I got into his car, there was a long-stemmed red rose laying on the seat for me. This actually became a tradition for us for about the first 4 months of our relationship. Once we got engaged, I told him we needed to save money. Anyway, it was a beautiful rose! We headed out to the theater about 20 minutes away. Even at that point, what struck me again (as it had the day we met) was how easily we communicated. The drive went very quickly.
We decided to go see A Walk in the Clouds (my choice), but had a while before it started. There was an Applebee's nearby, so we headed there for dinner. I don't remember what we ordered, but I do remember both of us saying "no onions". Of course, I am thinking that we both did this in case the evening involved a kiss. Umm, no. Andy doesn't like onions!
Again, we had a lovely conversation. I had not really dated in about 3 years. I dated someone in college for 3 years, and we broke up after graduation. Other than that relationship, I had just had short relationships which I look back and realize that I had intentionally ended early so that there was no point where I had to say no to certain requests (I'm sure you can figure this one out.). To be dating now outside the confines of a Catholic school now quite frankly scared me because I did (and still do) hold certain virtues close to me. Where am I going with this? I am not sure how I said it, but I pretty much made it clear that I was waiting for marriage. Just wanted to set up those parameters right away. We laugh at this conversation now because it wasn't a problem.
I still didn't know at this point if Andy was Catholic (he was and is), and as easy as our conversation was, it took me another 2 weeks to ask this question. When I finally asked him, and he said he was Catholic, I said, "Why didn't you tell me? My family has been bugging me about this one!" His response, "You didn't ask, and I already knew you were."
So, we had a lovely dinner. Then onto the movie. A Walk in the Clouds was OK. It was a good date movie. We held hands through the entire movie. As the credits were rolling, we had our first kiss. After the movie, we drove back to my car. At this point, I knew that I really liked Andy. I just wasn't sure how we would make it work. He was living over an hour away. I had done the long distance thing with the boyfriend from college. At the time, I thought it was why we broke up. I just didn't know how this could work. Obviously, it did because we will be married 13 years this December.
I got home and my Mom was waiting up for me. I think she knew back then that this was it. My Dad proposed to my Mom on their first date, and although she told him he was crazy, she knew then that he was the one.
A word of advice, though, NEVER use carmex after kissing someone. For me, it turned my lips literally fire-engine red, causing my Mom to say, "I can tell he kissed you." How embarrassing!
I waited a week for Andy to call after we had met. It was a long week. On Sunday, he finally called. He was back in town after having stood up in a friend's wedding the night before. He wanted to see me before heading back home. I should say at this point that I had very traditional parents, and they expected to meet him. I wasn't ready for that yet. So, Andy and I met at a central point, and I parked my car there. He would meet my folks another time, after I had time to figure out if this was going to go anywhere.
When I got into his car, there was a long-stemmed red rose laying on the seat for me. This actually became a tradition for us for about the first 4 months of our relationship. Once we got engaged, I told him we needed to save money. Anyway, it was a beautiful rose! We headed out to the theater about 20 minutes away. Even at that point, what struck me again (as it had the day we met) was how easily we communicated. The drive went very quickly.
We decided to go see A Walk in the Clouds (my choice), but had a while before it started. There was an Applebee's nearby, so we headed there for dinner. I don't remember what we ordered, but I do remember both of us saying "no onions". Of course, I am thinking that we both did this in case the evening involved a kiss. Umm, no. Andy doesn't like onions!
Again, we had a lovely conversation. I had not really dated in about 3 years. I dated someone in college for 3 years, and we broke up after graduation. Other than that relationship, I had just had short relationships which I look back and realize that I had intentionally ended early so that there was no point where I had to say no to certain requests (I'm sure you can figure this one out.). To be dating now outside the confines of a Catholic school now quite frankly scared me because I did (and still do) hold certain virtues close to me. Where am I going with this? I am not sure how I said it, but I pretty much made it clear that I was waiting for marriage. Just wanted to set up those parameters right away. We laugh at this conversation now because it wasn't a problem.
I still didn't know at this point if Andy was Catholic (he was and is), and as easy as our conversation was, it took me another 2 weeks to ask this question. When I finally asked him, and he said he was Catholic, I said, "Why didn't you tell me? My family has been bugging me about this one!" His response, "You didn't ask, and I already knew you were."
So, we had a lovely dinner. Then onto the movie. A Walk in the Clouds was OK. It was a good date movie. We held hands through the entire movie. As the credits were rolling, we had our first kiss. After the movie, we drove back to my car. At this point, I knew that I really liked Andy. I just wasn't sure how we would make it work. He was living over an hour away. I had done the long distance thing with the boyfriend from college. At the time, I thought it was why we broke up. I just didn't know how this could work. Obviously, it did because we will be married 13 years this December.
I got home and my Mom was waiting up for me. I think she knew back then that this was it. My Dad proposed to my Mom on their first date, and although she told him he was crazy, she knew then that he was the one.
A word of advice, though, NEVER use carmex after kissing someone. For me, it turned my lips literally fire-engine red, causing my Mom to say, "I can tell he kissed you." How embarrassing!
20 April 2009
Q & A with Amy-Part 1
One of Amy's questions for me was how Andy and I met. This deserves a post in itself.
Andy and I met on Labor Day, 1995. I was set to start my very first teaching job the next day, but I had plans for the holiday. My friend, Kari, had a friend (Andy) coming in to go to the last of the summer festivals, Maritime Days. Kari invited a bunch of us to go as two of our favorite groups were playing that night-The Gufs and The Violent Femmes (I listened to some different music in those days!).
I almost didn't go. That morning, I was working on lesson plans for the next day, and decided that I had too much to do. I was still living at home at that point, and told my Mom that I was staying home. My Mom knew that Kari's friend, Andy was going too. She told me to go, that I was almost 25 and not getting any younger (yes, those were her exact words!). I decided to go.
We were to meet at Kari's. I walked up the steps to her house, and saw this guy sitting on her couch (Andy). She has talked about him before, from when they were in college, and I was beginning to think he didn't exist because, well, he was supposed to have visited before and didn't. My first impression-he's cute. We were introduced and all of us set off for Maritime Days.
The concert was not beginning for a few hours. All of us decided to just walk around and talk. What really happened was that everyone else talked together and Andy and I had our own conversation. Andy said he was able to check a lot of things on his list that day about the woman he was looking for (intelligent, short, brunette, Catholic-not necessarily in that order). Andy laughs at me today because at some point, I gave him the "I really like my single life. I'm not really looking for a relationship right now" talk. Somehow, over the course of the afternoon, I decided that I did want a relationship-with him (not that I told him that!). There was one piece of information I needed before I could proceed.
I pulled Kari aside, and asked her if there had every been or could ever be any kind of relationship between her and Andy. She told me no, and to feel free to pursue things. At some point during "The Gufs" concert, Andy and I were holding hands (he says I took his hand first, something I would have NEVER done, and I say he took my hand first.). At the end of the night, I drove Kari and Andy back to Kari's place so Andy could drive the hour back to where he was living at the time. Before he got out of the car, he told me that he would get my number from Kari. The next week until our first date was one of the longest of my life, but I stuck to one of my rules-girls don't call first!
Next up will be Evy's question about our first date!
Andy and I met on Labor Day, 1995. I was set to start my very first teaching job the next day, but I had plans for the holiday. My friend, Kari, had a friend (Andy) coming in to go to the last of the summer festivals, Maritime Days. Kari invited a bunch of us to go as two of our favorite groups were playing that night-The Gufs and The Violent Femmes (I listened to some different music in those days!).
I almost didn't go. That morning, I was working on lesson plans for the next day, and decided that I had too much to do. I was still living at home at that point, and told my Mom that I was staying home. My Mom knew that Kari's friend, Andy was going too. She told me to go, that I was almost 25 and not getting any younger (yes, those were her exact words!). I decided to go.
We were to meet at Kari's. I walked up the steps to her house, and saw this guy sitting on her couch (Andy). She has talked about him before, from when they were in college, and I was beginning to think he didn't exist because, well, he was supposed to have visited before and didn't. My first impression-he's cute. We were introduced and all of us set off for Maritime Days.
The concert was not beginning for a few hours. All of us decided to just walk around and talk. What really happened was that everyone else talked together and Andy and I had our own conversation. Andy said he was able to check a lot of things on his list that day about the woman he was looking for (intelligent, short, brunette, Catholic-not necessarily in that order). Andy laughs at me today because at some point, I gave him the "I really like my single life. I'm not really looking for a relationship right now" talk. Somehow, over the course of the afternoon, I decided that I did want a relationship-with him (not that I told him that!). There was one piece of information I needed before I could proceed.
I pulled Kari aside, and asked her if there had every been or could ever be any kind of relationship between her and Andy. She told me no, and to feel free to pursue things. At some point during "The Gufs" concert, Andy and I were holding hands (he says I took his hand first, something I would have NEVER done, and I say he took my hand first.). At the end of the night, I drove Kari and Andy back to Kari's place so Andy could drive the hour back to where he was living at the time. Before he got out of the car, he told me that he would get my number from Kari. The next week until our first date was one of the longest of my life, but I stuck to one of my rules-girls don't call first!
Next up will be Evy's question about our first date!
Q & A with Aussie Therese and Kim
First, Kim's Question:
What's your favorite restaurant and are you a get the same item every time kinda gal?
This question is really hard for me. It depends on the mood. And, truth be told, we don't eat out a whole lot lately. We did take the kids out last night to end Spring Break, so I'll focus on that one.
We went to Pizzeria Uno last night for dinner. I do like the food there, but it actually was more of where Andy wanted to go last night. I used to ALWAYS get spinoccoli pizza there (It has spinach and broccoli), but have since changed my tune. The thing I love about Uno's is that I get to order my own pizza and I don't have to share it. This is an important point because if we order pizza as a family, I NEVER get veggies on it, and I love me a sausage, onion and mushroom pizza! So last night I had a pizza with sausage, mushroom, onion and green pepper on it. YUM! It is my new favorite, and I will order it again if we go. (Yes, Kim, I do tend to order the same thing at a restaurant that we frequent).
Now onto Aussie Therese's Questions:
What is your favourite movie of all time?
I don't know that I could pick out a favorite. There are certain movies that evoke certain emotions in me. For example, I love to watch, Meet me in St. Louis! because I watched it so many times with my nieces growing up. They would tell you that they love to watch Anastasia with me (even as adults) for the same reason. Another favorite for me is Say Anything just because Andy and I used to watch it over and over when we were dating/newly married, and we love when we come across it late at night now. I also love Ferris Bueller's Day Off because it makes me think of high school and those friends. I am a HUGE fan of both the Star Wars and Harry Potter movies as well. I suppose I could go on and on about this one....
Do you have a number of children that you would like to have?
The short answer to this is, of course, as many as God will give us. When I was young, I used to think 5 was the perfect number because that was the number of kids in my family. When Andy and I were dating, I used to tell him 4-5, and he would say 2-3 (He has only one sister). Obviously, Andy changed his mind on 2-3!
Seriously, we are very blessed to have 4 because I have poly-cystic ovarian syndrome meaning that often I do not ovulate, so all of our children (the 4 here and 2 in heaven) are miracles to us. That being said, I will be 39 in September, so I know my child-bearing years are numbered.
What is your favourite childhood memory?
Good question, Therese, and another hard one, but I think I would have to say the New Year's Eve that we got snowed in at my Uncle Tony's house. I have many aunts and uncles, but Uncle Tony has always been one of my favorites particularly because of how Italian he is. My Italian heritage is very important to me, and that holiday with the good food and family was a favorite!
Do you have any hobbies?
I do have many hobbies, but few that I have time for. I know how to do counted cross-stitch, but haven't done it in about 8 years. Last year, I learned how to crochet, and still do, but am addicted to loom knitting right now. In fact, I am in the process of looming quite a few baby gifts right now which I will share when they are done. I also dabble in cake decorating, and hope to take another class this summer. We also have our annual Christmas ornament (which we have already begun for this year-it is going to be COOL! I still would like to learn how to sew, but that may take a while.
Again, thanks for the questions. I am saving Evy and Amy's for last because they will take a bit!
What's your favorite restaurant and are you a get the same item every time kinda gal?
This question is really hard for me. It depends on the mood. And, truth be told, we don't eat out a whole lot lately. We did take the kids out last night to end Spring Break, so I'll focus on that one.
We went to Pizzeria Uno last night for dinner. I do like the food there, but it actually was more of where Andy wanted to go last night. I used to ALWAYS get spinoccoli pizza there (It has spinach and broccoli), but have since changed my tune. The thing I love about Uno's is that I get to order my own pizza and I don't have to share it. This is an important point because if we order pizza as a family, I NEVER get veggies on it, and I love me a sausage, onion and mushroom pizza! So last night I had a pizza with sausage, mushroom, onion and green pepper on it. YUM! It is my new favorite, and I will order it again if we go. (Yes, Kim, I do tend to order the same thing at a restaurant that we frequent).
Now onto Aussie Therese's Questions:
What is your favourite movie of all time?
I don't know that I could pick out a favorite. There are certain movies that evoke certain emotions in me. For example, I love to watch, Meet me in St. Louis! because I watched it so many times with my nieces growing up. They would tell you that they love to watch Anastasia with me (even as adults) for the same reason. Another favorite for me is Say Anything just because Andy and I used to watch it over and over when we were dating/newly married, and we love when we come across it late at night now. I also love Ferris Bueller's Day Off because it makes me think of high school and those friends. I am a HUGE fan of both the Star Wars and Harry Potter movies as well. I suppose I could go on and on about this one....
Do you have a number of children that you would like to have?
The short answer to this is, of course, as many as God will give us. When I was young, I used to think 5 was the perfect number because that was the number of kids in my family. When Andy and I were dating, I used to tell him 4-5, and he would say 2-3 (He has only one sister). Obviously, Andy changed his mind on 2-3!
Seriously, we are very blessed to have 4 because I have poly-cystic ovarian syndrome meaning that often I do not ovulate, so all of our children (the 4 here and 2 in heaven) are miracles to us. That being said, I will be 39 in September, so I know my child-bearing years are numbered.
What is your favourite childhood memory?
Good question, Therese, and another hard one, but I think I would have to say the New Year's Eve that we got snowed in at my Uncle Tony's house. I have many aunts and uncles, but Uncle Tony has always been one of my favorites particularly because of how Italian he is. My Italian heritage is very important to me, and that holiday with the good food and family was a favorite!
Do you have any hobbies?
I do have many hobbies, but few that I have time for. I know how to do counted cross-stitch, but haven't done it in about 8 years. Last year, I learned how to crochet, and still do, but am addicted to loom knitting right now. In fact, I am in the process of looming quite a few baby gifts right now which I will share when they are done. I also dabble in cake decorating, and hope to take another class this summer. We also have our annual Christmas ornament (which we have already begun for this year-it is going to be COOL! I still would like to learn how to sew, but that may take a while.
Again, thanks for the questions. I am saving Evy and Amy's for last because they will take a bit!
18 April 2009
Is it wrong...
to want to consume a bottle of salad dressing??? Just kidding (kind of)...I have been feeling yucky all day where nothing I eat has settled my stomach. And then, I looked in the fridge and was about to have a string cheese, but it was the last one and as I pulled it out, Michael asked for it (darn!). I looked back in-I need to go produce shopping tomorrow, but I had some grape tomatoes (my favorite), and I drizzled them with Caesar dressing...I feel the best I have felt all day! And the baby like is too, because he/she has been moving up a storm since I finished. So, again, I ask, is it wrong? Hee, hee!
17 April 2009
Q & A with Meghan and Sarah
Wow! Did you all have some really good questions! I am starting with Sarah and my niece, Meghan, because theirs were the easiest to answer. Please look for other answers to your questions over the following week, and feel free to ask more!
From Meghan:
1. If you could pick one place in the world to go on vacation for free, where would it be?
This one is pretty easy for me, and not really a surprise. I would go back to Italy. I lived there for a semester in college, and loved it. I would love to go back one day with Andy, and share with him all that I saw there as well as make some new memories! I would want to go to Rome, Assisi, Venice, Florence, and back to my family in Sicily.
2. Would you rather shop for things for yourself or relax at the spa?
I don't get to do either one of these very often, so that is a tough one, but I guess I would pick the spa. In fact, in less than an hour, I am going for a pedicure. Spring has sprung, and I need to get rid of the wintry feel of my feet! I can't wait!!!
3. When do you find out the if the baby is a boy or girl?
My ultrasound is scheduled for April 27th, and we plan to find out then. I had my OB appointment yesterday, and all is well. I have gained NO weight (not a problem since I needed to lose before I was pregnant) which is really surprising because I am eating a TON! I asked my OB if we really could believe the ultrasound, and he said that in the 12 years he has been with the group that he knows of only 2 mistakes being made on the gender, one of which was my sweet Michael. What do you think-do we believe it or not?
From Sarah (JOT):
What are your fav things to eat and what are things you do not ever passing from your gob into your tummy again?
I actually giggled at this one given my voracious appetite of late. My favorite foods since I was little include pasta with broccoli; and pork with sauerkraut and mashed potatoes. I always asked for one of these on my birthday growing up, and I still love them! Mom always said I like the weird vegetables. Truth be told, I like almost all veggies.
As far as food I am never eating again, my dislikes run to certain textures. I cannot eat legumes of any kind, peas (unless they are the petite frozen kind thrown in a salad) and liver. They all have that kind of mushy, grainy texture, and as good as legumes can be for you, you will never find them at a meal in my house!
Thanks for the great questions Sarah and Megs! More answers to follow!
From Meghan:
1. If you could pick one place in the world to go on vacation for free, where would it be?
This one is pretty easy for me, and not really a surprise. I would go back to Italy. I lived there for a semester in college, and loved it. I would love to go back one day with Andy, and share with him all that I saw there as well as make some new memories! I would want to go to Rome, Assisi, Venice, Florence, and back to my family in Sicily.
2. Would you rather shop for things for yourself or relax at the spa?
I don't get to do either one of these very often, so that is a tough one, but I guess I would pick the spa. In fact, in less than an hour, I am going for a pedicure. Spring has sprung, and I need to get rid of the wintry feel of my feet! I can't wait!!!
3. When do you find out the if the baby is a boy or girl?
My ultrasound is scheduled for April 27th, and we plan to find out then. I had my OB appointment yesterday, and all is well. I have gained NO weight (not a problem since I needed to lose before I was pregnant) which is really surprising because I am eating a TON! I asked my OB if we really could believe the ultrasound, and he said that in the 12 years he has been with the group that he knows of only 2 mistakes being made on the gender, one of which was my sweet Michael. What do you think-do we believe it or not?
From Sarah (JOT):
What are your fav things to eat and what are things you do not ever passing from your gob into your tummy again?
I actually giggled at this one given my voracious appetite of late. My favorite foods since I was little include pasta with broccoli; and pork with sauerkraut and mashed potatoes. I always asked for one of these on my birthday growing up, and I still love them! Mom always said I like the weird vegetables. Truth be told, I like almost all veggies.
As far as food I am never eating again, my dislikes run to certain textures. I cannot eat legumes of any kind, peas (unless they are the petite frozen kind thrown in a salad) and liver. They all have that kind of mushy, grainy texture, and as good as legumes can be for you, you will never find them at a meal in my house!
Thanks for the great questions Sarah and Megs! More answers to follow!
16 April 2009
I've got nothing!
I haven't written this week because, well, I have been busy chasing the boys, and trying to spend some time with my hubby (Everyone is off this week)...I just haven't felt like posting a whole lot. I am tired, and have no creative juices flowing whatsoever!
As some of you have done recently, I have decided to open this up to you. Anything you want to know about me? Just ask by leaving a question in the com box, and I will do my best to answer...
(OK, now my insecurities are kicking in...what if NO ONE has a question???)
As some of you have done recently, I have decided to open this up to you. Anything you want to know about me? Just ask by leaving a question in the com box, and I will do my best to answer...
(OK, now my insecurities are kicking in...what if NO ONE has a question???)
10 April 2009
Blessed Weekend!
Before noon, I just wanted to leave a quick post wishing you all the richest blessing that this weekend can bring. Last night, I opted to take the night off from teaching at the last minute so I could attend Holy Thursday Mass. I went with Peter while Andy stayed home with the younger two as it would have been too late a night for them.
As I was praying at Mass, I was kind of taking stock of where my faith is and where it has come from since last Easter. I had this realization of what a blessing you, my blogging friends, all are as you have made me want to be a better wife, a better mother and, most importantly, closer to Jesus. For that, the words, thank you, hardly seem enough. Know that as I attend Good Friday service and Easter Sunday Mass, I will be praying for each of you and your intentions.
Until next week, have a Blessed Easter!
As I was praying at Mass, I was kind of taking stock of where my faith is and where it has come from since last Easter. I had this realization of what a blessing you, my blogging friends, all are as you have made me want to be a better wife, a better mother and, most importantly, closer to Jesus. For that, the words, thank you, hardly seem enough. Know that as I attend Good Friday service and Easter Sunday Mass, I will be praying for each of you and your intentions.
Until next week, have a Blessed Easter!
07 April 2009
Update
I thought I'd post a quick pregnancy update. I will be 17 weeks on Thursday! Hard to believe we are almost at the half way point!
My ultrasound is on April 27th. I think we are going to find out what we are having, however, I say that with a grin on my face. What you may not know is that when I was pregnant with Michael, they told us we were having a girl by both the ultrasound tech and the OB at the ultrasound center. I remember my OB telling me he didn't believe the results, so we'd have to wait and see. For 5 months, I called Michael by a girl's name, bought, de-tagged and washed lots of pink, and waited for my girl. I should have listened to my OB. When he said, "It's a boy!" Andy and I stared at each other in disbelief. So, while we say we will find out, if they say girl, I may not believe it (or I might because what are the chances they'd be wrong twice, right?).
I am feeling OK, not great, but OK. This time around has been VERY different. Normally, I am feeling good by week 12. I am feeling OK, but every few days I am thrown back into morning sickness. I still have to take Zofran a couple of times a week (Herd Momma, before you say twins again, my ultrasound at 8 weeks confirmed 1 baby). I am not complaining...it is manageable, just different.
We are still battling names...No boy's name has surfaced yet, and the girl's name we have had for a long time is back up for discussion (I want something else!)...glad we have time on this one!
I am definitely showing. So far I have heard, "You're growing!", "Wow, you're big!", and my personal favorite, "You're looking puffy!" Trying not to think about that last one!
Nancy asked me to post a belly pic-I try not to take those, but maybe you'll get a glimpse at Easter!
Holy Week Blessings, Everyone!
My ultrasound is on April 27th. I think we are going to find out what we are having, however, I say that with a grin on my face. What you may not know is that when I was pregnant with Michael, they told us we were having a girl by both the ultrasound tech and the OB at the ultrasound center. I remember my OB telling me he didn't believe the results, so we'd have to wait and see. For 5 months, I called Michael by a girl's name, bought, de-tagged and washed lots of pink, and waited for my girl. I should have listened to my OB. When he said, "It's a boy!" Andy and I stared at each other in disbelief. So, while we say we will find out, if they say girl, I may not believe it (or I might because what are the chances they'd be wrong twice, right?).
I am feeling OK, not great, but OK. This time around has been VERY different. Normally, I am feeling good by week 12. I am feeling OK, but every few days I am thrown back into morning sickness. I still have to take Zofran a couple of times a week (Herd Momma, before you say twins again, my ultrasound at 8 weeks confirmed 1 baby). I am not complaining...it is manageable, just different.
We are still battling names...No boy's name has surfaced yet, and the girl's name we have had for a long time is back up for discussion (I want something else!)...glad we have time on this one!
I am definitely showing. So far I have heard, "You're growing!", "Wow, you're big!", and my personal favorite, "You're looking puffy!" Trying not to think about that last one!
Nancy asked me to post a belly pic-I try not to take those, but maybe you'll get a glimpse at Easter!
Holy Week Blessings, Everyone!
06 April 2009
THANK YOU!
I just finished my test for essay scoring, and I passed with flying colors! Thanks for all of the prayers! They really helped!
Mondays
In general, I don't like Mondays, but I really don;t like the way this one is starting off. Both Drew and Michael are down with really bad colds and coughs. We kept Drew home today, and he is laying like a slug on the couch with absolutely no energy! Michael is faring a bit better, but boy, what a way to start Holy Week! I am hoping this is quick so we can see my family for Easter!
Besides trying to have a good Holy Week, I feel like I have a lot on my plate. Hours are down where I teach, but I have a side job scoring essays. Please pray that I make it through training. The scoring is different from the SAT scoring that I have done since 2005, and I am struggling to find my groove. I have to pass a test by tomorrow to be allowed to score, so I need to find that groove fast!
I hope everyone has a meaningful Holy Week! I will be praying for each of you!
Besides trying to have a good Holy Week, I feel like I have a lot on my plate. Hours are down where I teach, but I have a side job scoring essays. Please pray that I make it through training. The scoring is different from the SAT scoring that I have done since 2005, and I am struggling to find my groove. I have to pass a test by tomorrow to be allowed to score, so I need to find that groove fast!
I hope everyone has a meaningful Holy Week! I will be praying for each of you!
01 April 2009
Ice Cream, anyone?
A friend sent me this by email, and it sums it up!
In honor of the 44th President of the United States , Baskin-Robbins Ice Cream has issued a new flavor, " Barocky Road ".
Barocky Road is a blend of half Vanilla, half Chocolate, and surrounded by Nuts and Flakes.
The Vanilla portion of the mix is not openly advertised and usually denied as an ingredient.
The Nuts and Flakes are all very bitter and hard to swallow.
The cost is $100.00 per scoop.
When purchased it will be presented to you in a large beautiful cone, but then the Ice Cream is taken away and given to the person in line behind you..
Thus you are left with an empty Wallet, no change, holding an empty cone, with no hope of getting any Ice Cream.
Aren't you feeling stimulated?
In honor of the 44th President of the United States , Baskin-Robbins Ice Cream has issued a new flavor, " Barocky Road ".
Barocky Road is a blend of half Vanilla, half Chocolate, and surrounded by Nuts and Flakes.
The Vanilla portion of the mix is not openly advertised and usually denied as an ingredient.
The Nuts and Flakes are all very bitter and hard to swallow.
The cost is $100.00 per scoop.
When purchased it will be presented to you in a large beautiful cone, but then the Ice Cream is taken away and given to the person in line behind you..
Thus you are left with an empty Wallet, no change, holding an empty cone, with no hope of getting any Ice Cream.
Aren't you feeling stimulated?
April 1
It has been a LONG morning! Andy was paged into work at about 4:30 this morning. Quite honestly, I couldn't fall back to sleep after that. He ended up coming home for a couple of hours at about 7.
When the boys got up, I realized it was Silly Dress Day in honor of April Fool's Day. Why can I not think about this the night before? I sent the boys to school with shirts backwards and one school shoe and one gym shoe...I am tired!
When the boys got up, I realized it was Silly Dress Day in honor of April Fool's Day. Why can I not think about this the night before? I sent the boys to school with shirts backwards and one school shoe and one gym shoe...I am tired!
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