This Afternoon's Shuttle Launch

I think at times I take for granted how much there is to do in Florida. At 5:02 p.m., we walked right outside our friend door, looked across the neighbor's roof, and watched the shuttle! How cool is that. (Our home is about 35 miles from the Cape, so we don't see more than a flame and vapor trail, but I think our view is pretty awesome! I tried to get Mimi in the shot but it didn't work out as planned.)

It's Summer!

Princess Mimi finished up school on Thursday (I can't believe her first year of pre-school has gone by so quickly!), and this morning she will start her first class at Kindermusik. She and hubby will attend class each Saturday morning for five weeks. The classes are a combination of music and movement, and are supposed to be fantastic!

After Kindermusik classes are complete, I want to look into children's classes at Home Depot (thanks Amy for the tip!). I hear there is a class where daddy and child can build a sailboat. How fun. Please let me know what your little ones will be doing this summer!

Re-charging the batteries!

I met two girl friends tonight for a quick bite at Brio's. (You can't beat their Lobster Bisque!) As a mom, I sometimes forgot how important is for me to "recharge my battery" on a regular basis. (Meaning, getting out of the house without my two precious kiddos). I sometimes feel guilty when I don't have my two kiddos in tow, but deep down I know how important it is for me to retain positive friendships.

It was so nice to unwind ... discuss our favorite tv shows....the latest on our jobs ... and of course, just a touch of gossip! So thank you Dawn & Allyson for a great time tonight! :)

Oh, yum, have to share this recipe!

Did you catch this one in Southern Living's March issue? What's more southern than Shrimp-and-Grits Eggs Benedict!?! Nothing better throwing together my two favorite brunch dishes! You can check it out here: http://find.myrecipes.com/recipes/recipefinder.dyn?action=displayRecipe&recipe_id=425690

Love Redbox's $1 rentals!

We have a Redbox vending machine a mile down the road from my home (wahoo!), so I have been catching up on movies this week. You can't beat $1 a night! So far, I have enjoyed all my rentals. Please tell me what I should rent next!

Shopping with Mom!

I know, I know...I am supposed to be "taking it easy" but with my mom in town it's tough. She loves to shop, so who am I to argue? Just kidding. We only ran to Target for a few essentials!

Now, I rarely find (or even look for) clothes there but today stumbled across a great find! The detailing on this dress and the fit are so darn cute, and it was $22.99! (I got it in brown but would have loved the kermit green.)
Once home, I ordered the "Please Puppy Please" book for Princess Mimi. I don't know anything about it, but apparently they read it at school last month and then created (with colors and construction paper) a picture about the book. Mimi's artwork has been on the fridge every since and she talks to us daily about the puppy, so today I ordered the book online.

Update on flying...

Just wanted to give you a quick update to my posts earlier this week about my flight. Well, no need to fear the flight, as I won't be going. My hubby and parents think it's best not for me to travel while I am still fighting pneumonia, so I canceled my trip. It truly was a tough decision for me as I hate to let anyone down, but I know that I have to get better for myself and the kids.

Side effects

Hubby picked up my Prednisone today. The side effects are nervousness, increased appetite, indigestion, and nausea. Oh fun, it's like being pregnant all over again, ha!

The New 90210

I was a huge fan of 90210 years ago. I kinda grew up in high school and college with the gang, so when I heard there was a "New 90210" coming out in the fall on CW, I was excited. Excited until I saw the preview today: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gU7EjzF1RJk. Are you kidding me!? :(

4 days to flight...

Well, my flight is in four days, and honestly, I am not that anxious right now. I am not sure if my breathing techniques are working or the fact that I have really cut down on caffefine this week, but today, I feel okay.

UPDATE: Just spoke with my doctor. Seems my pneumonia is about the same, so we are now adding Prednisone (steroid) pack to my mix of RX's as well as Advair in hopes of stopping any post-pneumonia asthma exacerbation. Both have a side effect of "jitters"...oh boy, I can't wait! :(

Am I the Only One?

So, I think I am the only person in the world who does not watch American Idol! I just never got in to it. Truth is, I never really saw down and watched it. I have heard all the updates this week on the morning talk shows (and I mean ALL the talk shows!). Even the home page of our newspaper web site has the winner front and center today. What is the rage?

I do like some reality TV. I watched Survivor this season and loved it. I love Jon & Kate Plus 8, but the singing thing, I don't get. Someone please tell me why America loves this show so much?

I even read that Disney's Hollywood Studios (formerly MGM) is opening an exhibit in January called The American Idol Experience! (Side thought, Disney is owned by ABC and American Idol runs on FOX so how is this possible!?!)

Anyhoo, not sure if I have a real point to this post, just talking out loud today I guess (dang Pneumonia, I can't think straight--ha!)

5 days to flight: AVIOPHOBIA

So, last night I was searching online and came across a (free!) "Fear of Flying" online seminar written by airline Captain Stacey L. Chance. At first I thought, "this looks hoakie", but then I started reading it and kept going through all five chapters. It did help calm by fears quite a bit about turbulance, but then it reminded me about claustrophobia (Oh great, a new worry. ha!)

The web site also gives a pretty good checklist for success: http://www.fearofflyinghelp.com/check.shtml

By the way, did you know there is a term for fear of flying? It is Aviophobia or Aerophobia.

I want soap-opera hair!

Okay, so being in bed this week, I am catching up on soap operas. I am so jealous of the great hairstyles on the soaps! Here are a few gals who have "to die for" hair...(I'm sure there are more but my battery is going low and I'm too lazy to find the plug; tell me your favorite soap lady!)

Phyllis on Y&R:

Carly on As the World Turns:

Kayla on Days

6 Days to Flight: Survivoral Pack

I decided to put together a "suvivoral pack" for the plane ride--you know, a backpack of goodies to help me through next week's flight. So far, I have a couple of new magazines (Self, Marie Claire, Prevention) and a new book to read (New Panic Attacks).

I had my hubby load up his iPod with some of my favorite songs--mostly Kenny, Tim, and Alan! And of course, I will have my laptop.

I will also have my Xanax (yea!), Goldfish crackers (incase I feel queasy), and chewing gum. So can you think of anything else I may need? Suggestions wanted!

(I have to admit, having Pneumonia this week has taken my mind off the flight somewhat...well, that could be the codone cough syrup I was prescribed yesterday!)

Swaptree--Very Cool Site!

Thanks Katy for remind me about Swaptree! I had seen it featured on one of the morning shows and had meant to look it up and just forgot! It's a cool new site were registered users can trade books, CDs and more. Check it out....oh, and sign up here (my referral link):
http://www.swaptree.com/WebFrmNewUserHomePage.aspx?ReferralUserName=JenniferMSD

Never Ceases to Amaze Me!

Since hubby and I both have pneumonia now (oh the fun continues), and Princess Mimi has a stomach virus, I sent Tom-Tom to a sitter today. When he got home this evening, Mimi kept hugging on him and saying "I am glad you're home!" and "I love you Tom Tom!" It was so cute! I never expected such a reaction from her and it just melted my heart! :)

7 days to go! Yikes.

I don't think anyone likes to fly these days, but I really don't like to fly. In fact, I hate to fly. H-A-T-E. Capital letters. And in one week I have to fly to Atlantic City for work. Oh the joy. I am already "worked up" about it to the point that I am having nightmares about it.

I used to fly regularly for work (Chicago, San Fran, Seattle) and just got to the point where I couldn't stand it anymore. 9-11 didn't help. And the last flight I took (Oct 2004) was during a hurricane so everyone was in a tizzy and the weather was horrible. I took a couple of Xanax, followed by two beers, and made it to my destination (New Orleans). However, three days later, when I was supposed to fly back to Florida, I couldn't do it. I totally freaked out. I ended up renting a car and just driving home!

That was my last flight. Yup, four years ago! Prior to marriage. Prior to kids.

Someone asked me the other day why do I hate it so much? I think there are several reasons. First, I get dizzy/vertigo (even if I take Dramine). Second, I hate the turbulance (and I have had my share of bad flights!). Third, I hate to just "sit there" (I am probably un-dx'ed A.D.D!).

But as my good friend Tina tells me, "Jen, you are really limiting your life if you decide to never fly again." And I know she is right.

So, over the next few days, I will share my nervousness pain and agony with you as I try to prepare myself, mentally and physically, for this flight!

Money back from E-Bates!

This month I did some online shopping (Gap.com, Amazon.com, and Southwest Airlines). I started my shopping at EBates and already got $20 cash back. I'm so glad Sasha told me about this site!

Sign up with Ebates today and we'll each get a $5 bonus when you make your first purchase!
Click here to sign up: http://www.ebates.com/rf.do?referrerid=ihPdomBCzvfNk7l%2FxABVwA%3D%3D Happy shopping!

One Giant Petri Dish...

...my home that is! Princess Mimi started with bronchitis two weeks ago, followed by hubby and I. Hubby's bronchitis is now pneumonia. And, Princess Mimi has a fever and vomitting today. Oh the fun!! It's been two weeks of hell in my home, seriously.

Fortunately, Tom-Tom has made it without being sick, but he is cutting three new teeth so is also a huge bundle of fun these days. Is it June yet!?!

Robert Mondavi Died Today

Sad news for us wine lovers. Robert Mondavi passed away this afternoon. Years ago when I was first starting to acquire a love for wine, I read his biography, Harvest of Joy. (Pretty good book, if you like a quick read.) He really is the one who put wine on the map for California. He was a huge philanthropist too. Back in 1999, I had a chance to visit the Napa Winery, and his wine has been one of my favorites for years. I'll be sure to raise a glass to you this weekend, Mr. Mondavi.

6 Quirky Things About Me!

Following suit, from Lindsey at What Would Kate Gosselin Do? I am going to tell you six quirky things about me.


1. I have six different email addresses. Not sure why. It started with one on hotmail, then another on juno for junk mail, then one on yahoo for selling on Craigslist, then I started a new one on gmail for the blog world, next is my home account, and of course there is a work email.


2. I love watching Curious George cartoons! I say Princess Mimi likes them, but truth is, it's me!


3. I can't wait for the mailman to get here everyday. I run to the box each day at 3pm. Many days, it's only bills or junk mail, but, oh the fun of getting a new Pottery Barn catalog or Southern Living magazine.


4. I am addicted to sweets: cookies and cake are my favorite. But don't try to give me regular Hershey chocolate; I'm a Godiva girl!


5. The clothes in my closet are color coordinated. I love to organize my clothes!!


6. I'm not big on shoes. I know, most women love designer shoes, but I chose the basics.


Okay, I tag Jenna to go next!

Abundance

Every time we turn on the television or open the paper, the news is gloomy. Gas prices are up. Grocery prices are up. Fires or flooding or tornadoes have hit again. It's hard to feel "abundance" in such times.

But truth be told, "abundance" is all around us. We just fail to recognize it. (Author Candy Paull says, "Abundance is not how much I own, but how much I appreciate.") We have to learn, each day, to look for this "abundance" (those little details in life that God has given us!). Please take a minute today to look for His gifts in your life.

I have found abundance today in...

• the two adorablebaby bunnies Princess Mimi and I found in our backyard (see photo!)


• butterflies against a blue, blue sky


• a smile and wave


• the taste of fresh strawberries


• the smell of a steak sizzling on a neighbor's barbecue


• a 20-minute walk in the fresh air


• fresh flowers on the dinner table


• wind chimes in a garden


• the crispness of fresh lemonade


• the smell of homemade chocolate chip cookies
  
  

Liking the Green Tea

As I posted last week, I am trying to do more healthy things in my life to fight anxiety (since coming off Effexor). One of my new things is drinking a cup of hot green tea each afternoon. (Now, being from the South you would think I love swee tea, but truth is, I am not a tea drinker -- and I am so picky when it comes to new foods so this is huge for me!)

Last week, they announced that adding a bit of citrus juice (I have chosen lemon juice) to green tea will boost the benefits: http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/ART02914/How-to-Boost-Green-Tea-Benefits.html

Speaking of worry, here's a new quote I found and love:

The wind was against them now, and Piglet's ears streamed behind him like banners as he fought his way along, and it seemed hours before he got them into the shelter of the Hundred Acre Wood and they stood up straigh again, to listen, a little nervously, to the roaring of the gale among the tree tops.

Supposing a tree fell down, Pooh, when we were underneath it?"

"Supposing it didn't," said Pooh after careful thought.

(A.A. Miline, The House at Pooh Corner, 1928)

Hey Disney Fans

Toy Story Mania is opening at Hollywood Studios (aka MGM Studios) this month! I can't wait to see it. Of course, with summer now here in Florida, it may not be for a few months. Anyhoo, here is the official Disney link:
http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/disneyparks/en_US/minisites/toystorymania/index and an unofficial link that gives more info: http://www.allearsnet.com/tp/mgm/tsm_pho.htm

I am so excited about this new ride that I have re-decorated Tom-Tom's room in a "Woody" theme. (He formerly had Pottery Barn Train Junction). I'll post more pictures soon, promise!

THANK YOU IRS!

WAHOO, our $$ just hit the account! OH THE FUN! Or not. Actually, Hubby and I both need to dental work (each a crown) and have been putting it off for months. Darn! But let me dream for a minute. If I didn't have to turn it over to the dentist, I may just need the following:

New Kitchen Cabinets would be awesome!

Mignon Faget Jewelry(I love the tulip collection)A trip to Ireland would be ideal! (We still haven't taken our honeymoon!)
A girl always needs new clothes A new COACH bag

Or maybe even a gas card (I had to put in something practical)

Welcome!

I have had lots of new visitors this weekend, so to them, welcome! Please feel free to leave comments and let me know who you are! And, thanks for stopping by!

(Sorry I don't really have much to share today. Princess Mimi and hubby have been sick so things have been a little hectic in our neck of the woods!)

Cajun Cooking (When I have to cheat)

Many of you don't know that I am originally from South Louisiana. I have been in Florida for over 11 years--gosh make that 12 yeas next month. I get home sick quite a bit, especially for the Louisiana food.

Luckily, I am a pretty good cook. (My hubby has gained about 20 pounds since meeting me four years ago--shh!). But, I have to admit that lately I cheat. Instead of making "homemade" dishes, I am finding several prepared box kits that help.

Here are a few of my favorites.

The right etouffe mix with just the perfect amount of seasoning

--my newest find (thanks Dad)!

I don't need beignets when I have Bruce's pancake mix!

Zatarain's Jambalaya

(Hint: Add a small can of tomato sauce, 1/2 cup water, & an extra cup of white rice)

Best hush puppy mix - light not heavy! (add a little chopped onion--yum!)

Can't grill without this stuff (good in crockpot with meatballs, too!)

My biggest suggestion to other cooks is get you a bottle of this stuff: Tony Chachere's Roux and Gravy Mix . I add it to everything--gumbos, pot roast, soup, etoufee, etc!

18 kids!?!

Did you see that Michelle Duggar announced she is pregnant again with her 18th kid !? You've seen her on TLC, I'm sure.

A part of me says, "Good for her!" They have the money. They have the energy. Enjoy!

And, a part of me says, "But WHY!?". Why so many kids? What is her reasoning? I mean, Do her kids really feel loved? I can't imagine that the older kids ever get one-on-one time with either parent. (I have two kiddos and barely get alone time with one kid!) From what I have seen on tv, the older kids are taking care of the younger kids.

But the big question in my mind, after 17 kids, can sex even be enjoyable for her hubby!? Imagine how "stretched out" she is at this point!?! WHEW! Better yet, with 18 kids in the house, WHEN do they have sex!?!

Yup, just a random thought; I think I'll end it here! :))

A Crappy Week-END too!

Remember how bad my week started!? Well, the week continued on the same crappy note. Hubby was stuck at work really late three nights this week; and on Friday woke up with a fever, so no date night (cancelled the sitter)! And to make it worse, Princess Mimi is on antibiotics for Bronchitis and Tom-Tom is cutting moelers. Oh the fun in my home! Happy Mother's Day to me!! ha-ha!

What is a Mom Worth?

The new numbers are out! I heard on the local news this morning that if a mom was to get paid a salary, it would be around $117,000! WAHOO--um, but who will sign that paycheck for me!?!

P.S. There is a fun "mom salary quiz" on the www.salary.com website: http://swz.salary.com/momsalarywizard/layoutscripts/mswl_newsearch.asp.

Postcards from Yo Momma

Ah, Just in time for mother's day: http://www.postcardsfromyomomma.com/ My favorite so far:

Sweeheart-
Remember the rule. Don’t bring home anything you can’t wash off. That should cover it.
Love,Mom

I went shopping today!

Those of you with kiddos, know how hard it is to get to the mall, so I was thrilled to go for a few minutes this morning. I found three fab finds:

This is for Princess Mimi's Room (12x12"),

on sale for $8.99 Framed too!Great workout top with built in bra for $7.99 at JCP! Love it.

Found this top on the Clearance Rack at AT Loft! I plan to wear it with white crop pants on a date with my hubby Saturday night .

Hungry Girl

I saw this week on a few other mommy blogs, the "Hungry Girl" cookbook and web site. The recipes look great (yum, cheesecake brownies) and the recipes are all low-fat! (The author does thinks like substituting pumpkin puree for oil and eggs.)

You can sign up for her daily newsletter at http://www.hungry-girl.com/ which gives shopping tips (such as new low-fat/healthy foods you can pick up at the grocery store).

P.S . Yesterday, I called my mom and she happened to be shopping in Walmart, so I told her about the cookbook. She picked up a copy for $10. I can't wait to see it! (Thanks Mom!)

"Mommy Blogging"

Top mommy blogger Heather Armstrong joins TODAY's Hoda Kotb and Kathie Lee Gifford for a look at what mothers share online. (You may remember that I referenced Heather's web site http://www.dooce.com/ a couple of days ago when my husband was worried about the saftey of blogging.) See it here: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/24502785#24502785

So those who are new to blogging, may be wondering why I do it. Well...here's my top five reasons for blogging:

1. I love to gab. I have so much to say. Yes, some fluff; some more substantial, and blogging allows me the pleasure to speak my mind.
2. Blogging is my "creative" outlet. It's much easier and less-time consuming than scrapbooking.
3. It's free.
4. Blogging allows social interaction. (See my second post: I met a wonderful friend, Amy, online three years ago and am blessed to have her as a friend.)
5. It has the potential to make some money. (Don't we all want to be the next dooce.com!)

I've Committed the Worst Sin...

I have committed what could be the worse sin possible. I let my Southern Living subscription expire! Can you imagine!?! A girl born and raised in the South, and not having her monthly dose of SL! I haven't seen an issue in two months, but don't fret. I just renewed online, whew.

It's Sandal Season

Girls (and guys too!), it's sandal season! I have tired tons of foot moisturizers in the past (to the point my old roomie said I had a foot addiction), and today tried Flexitol. The box is so not attractive, but try it. It's so awesome and instantly softens my feet. I picked it up at Target for $5 today.

Also, Curel has a new line of Life Stages body lotion. I bought a bottle yesterday as well. Last night, I went to the Curel site and found they are giving away free samples right now! Enjoy.

See you a McD's on May 15th!

Yum, Just read that McDonald's wil give free samples on May 15th for its two new chicken sandwiches: "Southern style" chicken biscuits and sandwiches.

Worry doesn't help tomorrow's troubles...

So, for those who don't personally know me, I'll let you in a little secret. I am a HUGE worry wort. I blow things out of proportion until they fester in my mind, and I reach panic. Fun, uh?

In the past, I have taken anxiety meds (Zoloft and Effexor), but I've decided to beat this drug free. I'm currently reading a few books on anxiety, exercising more often, taking vitamins, trying to build up my confidence, drinking less caffefine, and practice breathing techniques.

Anyhoo...I know from time to time we all "worry" about something, so here are a few quotes I picked up along the way, and wanted to share with you:

Stop worrying about the potholes in the road and celebrate the journey! Barbara Hoffman

It is awfully hard to be b-b-brave," said Piglet, "when you are only a Very Small Animal."

Worry doesn't help tomorrow's troubles, but it does ruin today's happiness. Unknown

If you can't sleep, then get up and do something instead of lying there and worrying. It's the worry that gets you, not the loss of sleep. Dale Carnegie

It ain't no use putting up your umbrella till it rains. Alice Caldwell Rice

Worry gives a small thing a big shadow. Sweedish Proverb

My Hubby and Blogging

Last night, I showed my husband this blog. He knew I was keeping one but had never peaked. I was expecting, "Wow babe, this is neat!", but instead he was ticked.

He had two main issues. First, he is worried about the safety of our children and doesn't like that I put a couple of pictures up of Princess Mimi and Tom-Tom. Second, he doesn't understand my need to share my life with others.

Ironically, I was telling a friend about the arguement with hubby; and she said Dooce.com had touched on a very similar issue yesterday, so I will just end my post here today, and let Heather take over for the day...http://dooce.com/2008/05/02/newsletter-month-fifty-and-fifty-one!

Amen, Heather, Amen!

Not a Way to Start My Week!

Princess Mimi has a horrible cough (doc says allergies) and coughed so much that she pee'd in her bed last night. Then, Tom-Tom wakes up and he has pee'd through his diaper onto his bed(which has only happened once or twice in the past). And last, I find that hubby's cat has thrown up hair balls all over my area rug. Lovely, lovely way to start a Monday!

Well, I FINISHED my first 5k!

Since this was my first 5k, my goal was a 15 minute mile and I did it! :)

Horrible picture, but I'd love to see one of you after running 3.1 miles!

Clock (Official) Time 47:21
Chip (Actual) Time 45:36
Overall Place 1344 / 1796

Geez Girls!!

Why is it so hard for women to make one plan and stick to it!? You can put 100 men in a room, and they will agree. Yet, you put six women together and everything goes haywire!

My husband always accuses me of "changing my mind" and I guess as women we do it often, but why? Is it a hormonal thing? Why can't we just "go with the flow" more often?

Tomorrow is my 5k at EPCOT. It's been planned for two months. The original plan was to have us walk the race, relax at the pool for a bit, and then drink at EPCOT the rest of the day. Well, the emails started yesterday. One won't wear a bathing suit; two more would prefer to go on rides instead of the pool; and another never even signed up for the race!

Come one gals! Why do we (women!) have to make life so darn complicated!? No wonder we drive men crazy. Darn hormones!