Pointe Shoes and Frozen Toes

I've just spent the better part of 48 hours freezing to death at an area convention center. The corridor of an unheated convention center is not exactly the location for a relaxing weekend in January. But weekend corridor sitting is one of my responsibilities as a dance mom. I typically spend my weekends sitting in the corridor of a convention center or a hotel (it costs an additional fee to actually watch the classes--no, thank you!). Believe me, it makes for some really long days... But the benefits for my daughter are usually worth it.

The Princess and her dance company were competing at a regional event for individual scholarships and team awards. While I don't really enjoy the actual conventions, I do enjoy the competition and closing shows. Today was no exception--the performances were truly amazing. In fact, one of the numbers brought several of the audience members to tears--seriously, they're that good!

So, in honor of my frozen toes, and my days of boredom interspersed with fleeting moments of amazingness, I'd like to share a favorite photo of the weekend.

Anyway--Congratulations on your scholarship, cutie! You deserve it! And yay! I won't have to pay tuition next time! That's two in a row! That almost makes the frostbite tolerable... Almost.

Compliments of the Triplets

It's a known fact that we have triplets. I find it surprising how unremarkable our situation has become. I used to inspire a certain amount of admiration from other mothers for my great achievement (just surviving the first year with triplets is an achievement). Lately, I find I am often one-upped by a mom who has triplets and a set of twins.

While I don't envy the twin/triplet moms, I do admit to scrutinizing their physiques. I hate it when people say,

Oh, you look good for having triplets.

I'm pretty sure that's not a compliment. I'd much rather hear,

I can't believe you ever had triplets, you look amazing!

But here's the thing, those twin/triplet moms usually do look better than me. I haven't decided if it's because they're all younger than me (let's not discuss my actual age--please?). Or maybe those extra little bodies run those poor moms ragged. My theory is that those twin/triplet moms need to get out of the house to maintain their sanity. I think they use the gym as an acceptable escape from their real lives.

Regardless, I find it a little disconcerting. It makes me look a whole lot less "good, for having triplets." And a whole lot more "gee, what happened to you?"

I know I could drag myself to the gym. In fact, I'll acknowledge that I should get more exercise. But the truth is, I just don't have any kind of fondness for the gym. I don't like all the hard bodies (especially in comparison), I don't like the mirrors (holy cow! They're everywhere!), I don't like the locker rooms (eew), I don't like the skinny girls who've never earned a stretch mark (no explanation necessary)...

So, I guess this is it. I can live with my I-only-have-triplets-not-triplets-and-twins inferiority complex. I can suck it up and hit the gym. Or I can call a plastic surgeon and get The Works. Any doctors out there who want to do some pro bono work?

Insanity in the Morning

Morning is not my thing. It's cold, it's dark, it's early... In fact, I've only been able to identify one redeeming quality of morning. It would seem that carbs are completely acceptable for consumption at breakfast time. And breakfast usually occurs in the morning... Actually, I think it's a horrific misfortune, because I really like breakfast food--waffles, pancakes, oatmeal, cold cereal, toast, cinnamon buns, ebelskiver... And I'm sure they'd be even more enjoyable later in the day.

Anyway--The Mister has been out of town (again). He knows how I feel about the less attractive hours of the day. Anything before 9AM is unlikely to be enjoyable for me (and will subsequently be unappealing for anyone else!). So, in an effort to encourage me to get everyone off to school on time, The Mister calls me in the morning to see that I actually get up and going. I should thank him, but I won't, because I don't like mornings...

A few days ago I got mad at Mister. His early call awoke the sleeping Buddy who had crawled into my bed after a bad dream. To save himself my grumpiness, The Mister decided to text me yesterday instead. The text came in just after 6AM and simply said, "You awake?" I texted back, "Unfortunately."

Because yesterday's texting saved The Mister the joy of my morning 'tude, he repeated the message today. "You awake?" I texted back, "Unfortunately." He responded with, "That was the same response I got yesterday." I replied. "Do you know the definition of crazy?"

Actually, I was referring to Albert Einstein's definition of insanity:

The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.

Mister, I don't like morning. I'll get up, but I won't like it... Ever. 'nough said.

Falling Snow

Many would disagree with me, but I think it's just so pretty outside today. The sky is heavy with a thick blanket of clouds. The mountains are utterly obscured, and my view ends with the rolling hills fading into the whiteness. Yet somehow, it doesn't seem claustrophobic. Instead, it seems like a protective embrace.

The snow is falling. Actually falling, as opposed to blowing and swirling. There is no wind, and that lack of movement creates a peaceful feeling. I could almost be lulled into a belief that it's not cold outside. Almost. It just seems too soft and calm to be a bitter-cold day.

The gentle falling of the plump flakes intensifies the feeling that everything is being covered by a heavy cloak. Tucked in for a peaceful slumber. It's a cozy thought. Cozier still, because I'm appreciating it from my window. Enjoying it from the true warmth of my home.

Cold Capture

I awoke this morning to the beginnings of a bitter cold day. The road was drifted over, and I was just hoping I wouldn't have need to wrestle with the snow blower. The temperature hovered near 11* F and I was certain that nothing could convince me to leave the house.

Luckily, my friend Olivia had other plans. Our little neighborhood park has become a beautiful site of crystallized trees and shrouded shapes. Olivia decided to take some photos and she invited me to join her.

I tried to look like I knew something (anything) about photography. I'm sure her photos will be much better than mine. But I did have a great time. Yes, it was cold (really, really cold!) but I think I have some beautiful photos to share! This one is straight out of the camera. I didn't crop it or enhance it in any way.

What do you think?

Snow Day

We missed the bus today.
The buses made their way up the hill,
but we were snowed into our little neighborhood.

It's hard to feel bad about spending a leisurely morning waiting for the snow plow.
It's especially hard not to enjoy the fresh snow when there are sights like these
just outside our windows.

How can anyone deny the remarkable beauty

of a fresh blanket of perfect, white snow?

Shades of Winter

Winter Rain

When I entered the building, the storm was climbing across the craggy mountain peaks. Over the next hour, it would slide down the canyon to settle into the valley. As I exited the building, I took my first breath of freshly stirred air. That first breath, taken under cover of the extended roof, held an unexpected surprise. I left the warmth of the building to discover that it had begun to rain. I wasn't surprised that the storm had reached the valley. The surprise was that it was rain and not snow that fell from the sky.

That first breath was pleasant, and full of the unexpected heaviness and scent of a different rain. It wasn't the assaulting sensory experience I expected of a January storm. Maybe it was the smell of wet pavement. Maybe it was the density of the humid air. There wasn't a hint of greening grass in the scent, but somehow, it still evoked thoughts of the refreshing rains of summer.

I have always been a lover of winter, and yet, on that dark, damp evening, I thrilled at the thought of the coming spring. I smiled at the thought of dew on the new blades of grass. I let my mind wander to the pleasant mystery of summer thunderstorms. I found myself smiling as I walked quickly through the rain to my car. And I was still smiling today when yesterday's rain turned to snow.

Look How They've Grown!

The Triplets had their sixth birthday today. While time has compassionately dampened the details, I still remember the day they were delivered. My doctor had gone to Hawaii and left me in my hospital bed. As he left, he made me promise to wait for him to return before going into labor. I can proudly say that I waited until he had been back for at least a couple of hours. His plane landed, he headed home, he was paged to the hospital. See how considerate I can be?

On the morning of January 24, 2003, three very little boys were brought into this world.

They were all below our goal weight of three pounds, but only by a few ounces.

JJ - 2 lbs 10 oz
Zeke - 2 lbs 12 oz
Max - 2 lbs 14 oz

Before you go making assumptions, I did not just name them in any kind of birth order. They are listed by ascending size. Rarely do I name them in birth order, and even when I do, nobody knows. I usually name them in alphabetical order. Sometimes it's by how easy they are to say in a certain order, and sometimes it's by ascending or descending size. The order I use is constantly changing and only I know the criteria I've used.


We made the decision early on that 120 seconds should not be the deciding factor of who would be our third child and who would get to be the youngest of five children. Besides, The Buddies were pulled out during the cesarean section in random order. I doubt very much that they would naturally have been born in the same order. So here they are, The Buddies, our youngest children.

Now, listed in order of this morning's Birthday Wishes:

Zeke got up early this morning. I wished him a Happy Birthday as he snuggled on the couch. He told me it wasn't his birthday until 10:00. While that isn't true, that is the scheduled time of today's party. Zeke is such a natural athlete. He is tall and strong and extraordinarily coordinated. He is a natural competitor and hates to be outdone by anyone. He makes friends easily and is very sensitive. He's my best helper and tries to please everyone. Zeke is my big softy and I love him for it.




JJ was second for Birthday Wishes today. He sneaked down the hall to play on the Wii while I jumped in the shower. That's typical for JJ, he loves to sneak around. He loves to surprise people and play pranks. He loves being silly, he loves to be the clown. JJ isn't so concerned with being first, but he wants things done his way. JJ is full of drama when he doesn't get his way. He's famous for alligator tears. But he is so clever and funny, he always keeps us laughing. JJ is the best at putting a smile on my face.



Max loves to sleep late, so today was not unusual. He straggled out of bed with barely enough time to get ready for the party. Max takes his time with everything. He should have been born as a Good Ol' Southern Boy--that slow and mellow drawl would suit him very well. Max is my little sweet heart. He is the snuggler. He will curl up with a book or a toy and amuse himself quietly for hours. He's the first to say, "I love you, mom!" I get to hear him say those words at least several times every day. Max makes me shake my head in bemusement. I love his contemplative commentary.

The Buddies are healthy and growing like weeds. People who don't know them are surprised at how little they were at birth, and at how early they were born. But they don't seem any the worse for their tenuous beginnings in life... I'm just glad they're here, they're healthy, and they're mine. I love my Little Buddies! Happy Birthday Boys!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BUDDIES!

Wishing JJ, Max, and Zeke a very happy birthday! Party pictures and details to follow!

I can't believe you're six!

Couples Wanted

Sometimes I really have to wonder why The Mister doesn't flee and refuse to return. It's not that I don't give him ample reason, although seriously, I don't intentionally torture him... Fortunately, he seems to harbor a certain fondness for me--even if it is an inexplicable fondness. And this fondness must be the rationale for his willingness to put up with me and my foibles. Honestly, I hope I'd be as willing to return to our chaotic life after a little reprieve.

The Mister returned today from a trip to Twin Falls. He left for Twin, flew back the same day to SLC, only to board another flight that took him to Boise. (Let's not discuss how I feel about this ridiculous travel schedule...) Anyway--this week's travel to St. George, Twin Falls, and Boise, which followed closely upon the heels of the Florida trip of last week, left us with little time together. With face-to-face time in short supply, we took advantage of his return to go out for dinner tonight.

When The Mister returns from his little sojourns, I feel the necessity of filling him in on the happenings of The Bean Family and other (in)significant miscellany. I try to keep these little tirades (I mean informational sessions) light and friendly, but I have a tendency to get a little snarky. My snarkiness might have annoyed him at one point, but now (in his jaded state) he seems to find me moderately amusing.

We enjoyed our evening at the ever-fabulous Cafe Trio, but my usual snarkiness was diverted by my interested distraction sparked by the patrons at the next table. They were a carefree group of four couples, and I found myself preoccupied by their jocularity. Watching this group led our conversation to the fact that we used to be one of those couples. But lately, we no longer seem to have any real "couple friends" with whom we do things. I intoned that we are too cool for friends--he hedged that we are too busy for friends--the truth is probably that our family life has just been too unpredictable to plan around.

The truth of the matter is, while I love spending time alone with The Mister, I do miss our evenings out with the adults. I miss Dinner Club. I miss adult movies (no, I'm not talking about porn!). I miss nuanced humor. I miss camaraderie.

Not too many years ago we had all kinds of friends. We had two kids and we were always game for an outing. We had more invitations to go out than we could possibly accept. I'm not sure at what point we segued from outgoing couple to reclusive parents of five. But somehow, that's what we've become. I think family schedules got complicated, babysitters became more difficult to find, after a while, we just stopped trying...

I think we're at the point where we would like to cultivate some new friendships in the realm of coupledom. (Although, let's not mistake this for a request to join a group of swingers!) I don't want to be the snarky mom who is desperate for outside contact. I want to be the fun, outgoing girl that The Mister married.

So, if you are feeling a similar disconnect from adult interaction, I'd love to hear from you. We could meet for dinner and a movie. Or maybe just dinner. Or maybe just dessert. Just drinks? Is this beginning to sound like a blind date? Somehow this proposal is reminiscent of a first date where the couple makes a brief connection just to get a feel for the situation... Regardless, I'd love to find some nice couples willing to meet for an evening out once in a while. If you're game, or even if you're just feeling similarly disengaged, I'd love to hear from you!

The Big Reveal

For those who are not up to date on their Bebe Trivia, the following is an important tidbit:

I am a grown woman of reasonable fashion sense. I have an acceptable appreciation for the beauty industry. I make time for pedicures, hair cuts, trips to the dermatologist. I've had fake nails, I've been waxed, I've used self tanner. I've dyed my eyelashes, considered extensions, permed my hair. I understand that high heels improve the look of your figure. I know that a good bra is a necessity and not a luxury. So how is it that today was the first time I have ever colored my hair?

Last week I looked in the mirror and saw a faded person. My skin was pale, my hair was pale, my clothes were pale. It's no wonder that my life had become a little lackluster. It was just a reflection of my person! So I decided to do something about it. Let me know what you think of the results (but please be kind!).

Today's the Day

Ah--The Ticket. Today is the deadline for paying the fine without having late fees added on top.

The Eldest has been paying his penalty for his speeding ticket. We've had him clean windows, shovel snow, pick up The Buddies' toys, and fold laundry (among other things). Tomorrow he's going to experience the joy of cleaning up after the kitties. Remember those adorable little balls of fluff that he just couldn't live without? Well, I can live without the little surprises they leave in the corners of the garage...

All in all, The Boy has been a good sport. I just hope he learned his lesson and he doesn't get another ticket anytime soon. Otherwise the fees and time spent in Traffic School will have been a waste.

Slow down, boy! Don't let life rush past you so quickly!

The House is Clean and Still- yeah, right!

Zeke was just singing the song Give Said the Little Stream.

If you don't know the song, the phrase is: I'm small, I know, but wherever I go, the grass grows greener still.

His version:

I'm small, I know, but wherever I go, the house is clean and still.

Oh, don't I wish!

Future Value

This post is a detour from the changes that I alluded to yesterday. While I want to focus more on family and less on "work," money does still have it's place in our society. The value of money is especially evident right now as The Boy is trying to earn money around the house to pay for his traffic ticket and traffic school. The Boy mopes around the house asking for something he can do for money. Of course, he usually isn't interested in the type of jobs I am willing to offer. But the constant refrain is,

Will you pay me for that?

Tonight, we were sitting at the dinner table when JJ needed a refill on his drink. The Boy wasn't eating (he had eaten earlier with friends) and was just standing in the kitchen chatting with us. Five-year-old JJ says,

"Hey, will you get me some juice? I'll pay you when I grow up!

Priceless!

The Details of Happiness

Sometimes it's the little things that make all the difference. It's the fluffy indulgence of a cashmere sweater. The sparkly buttons on an otherwise plain shirt. The perfect fit of a pair of timeworn jeans.

The Mister and I were just discussing the little details that might enhance our lives with more happiness. More money? More home cooked meals? More time together? More order in the house?

I think it's time to reevaluate the importance we've been placing on certain things. I'm going to make some changes which will probably include fewer shiny baubles, and more quiet moments. That's not to say that I'm giving up all things pretty. But sometimes a happy afternoon playing games and reading books with The Buddies is just as appealing.

There is something so desirable about tranquility in the home. Maybe that's what I've been missing recently. I've felt out-of-sorts for a while. I think taking some time to contemplate and consider my blessings will be of benefit.

Our house seems so full of busy energy and chaotic activity. Some of it is unavoidable with the goings-on of a lively family, but I think there is room to incorporate more serenity. There is nothing more enticing than a calm home that is filled with the love of a family. I want my home to be graced with the sweetness of tender moments. I want the sparkle of enthusiasm, without the volume of mayhem. I look forward to sharing in triumphant ebullience, and to salving the bitter disappointments. I want a home that is a haven from the frustrations of the world.

So, the next time you visit, please try to overlook the toys on the floor. Pretend you don't notice the pile of unfolded laundry. Instead, I hope you find yourself enjoying the loving details of our family.

Mom's Day Off

After being the voice of authority, the mistress of discipline, and the constant caregiver for a week, I needed a break. Boy, was I glad when The Mister got back from Florida last night! I took a bubble bath and went to bed.

This morning The Mister took HRH to dance, got The Boy up and going, helped clean up the house, and took The Buddies to the Children's Museum.

I, on the other hand, took the whole day off. I slept in, refused to do any meaningful housework, and enjoyed the (extremely infrequent--but sinfully blissful) quiet of a few hours at home... alone... I watched a chick flick, ate Toaster Strudel, and vegged on the couch.

Oh, what I would do for more days like this!

An Alien and an Army Guy go Bowling...

There should be a support group for mothers who are planning birthday parties for triplets. Here's the situation... Everybody wants to be King For The Day, and usually a birthday is a perfect excuse for bestowing that title. However, that becomes a little difficult when three in a house share the same special day. So how would you remedy this particular dilemma?

OK--solve this... Each of The Buddies has a different theme in mind. How do you feel about a Sci Fi-GI Joe-Bowling party? Doesn't that sound delightful?

Or how about this little detail... The Buddies are in three different classes at school (and at church). Who do you invite? All 60 kids from the three school classes? I'm seriously considering letting each kid invite only one friend... Is that mean?

The kinks in the planning keep getting more complicated. We can be sci fi aliens and wear camouflage anywhere, but the bowling actually requires a specific location (a bowling ally--follow along, please!). Our favorite bowling ally is about 30 minutes away, and I don't have enough car seats to safely transport everyone. Would it be obnoxious to ask the parents to drive their kids that far and then ask them to come back and get them?

Then there's always the gift thing... Will the guests feel like they have to bring three gifts? Should they bring three gifts? What if each Buddy invites one friend and then two of the Buddy Friends bring great gifts and the third is a dud... Then what?

And lastly--just to make the day really complicated, how do I deliver donuts and celebrate the day at school in three different classes at the same time? Suggestions? Anyone???

I think I need to be cloned (twice). Does anyone have connections for that kind of thing?

Define Budget

Men and women have differing ideas regarding budgets. When I talk about a budget, what I'm really referring to is My Spending Plan. I typically use the term budget as a verb, and I define it as ongoing calculations (usually done in my head) regarding money. These calculations are used to justify my purchases. I like to call these purchases planned dispersions of funds. Never mind that the planning of such dispersions are often incredibly brief...

The calculations involved in my budgeting go something like this:

Hmmmm, cute shoes. If we don't buy groceries, and we only eat food from our food storage supply, I could buy these very cute shoes...

See? Thoughtful consideration of the situation results in meals for the family, and new shoes for me! Success!

Alternately, The Mister views the word budget as a noun. It's a very heavy word and should always be printed in bold letters. The Mister's budget is a list of monetary inflows and outflows and categorizes all expenditures. I think The Mister's budget actually has a category entitled Frivolous Spending. I think that is where he lists things like the aforementioned shoes.

The Mister's budget works more like this:

If we're going to take a vacation this year, we're going to need to cut back on spending. *meaningful glance in my direction* We could do less online shopping and take the kids to Disneyland instead...

Seriously, isn't my way so much more fun?

Ebelskivers and the Keebler Elves

Ebelskivers, Able Skeeblers... And how do you say spherical pancakes in Danish?

Yes, I know we're done blogging about Christmas, but I'm reliving a memory here... just deal with it. I remember my mom making "Able Skeeblers" for breakfast on Christmas mornings. In my memory we had them every year... In reality, maybe once or twice... Regardless, they obviously made an impression. I wondered at the unique moniker of these tasty, round treats--I recall thinking that the creators (those Skeeblers) must be related to the Keebler Elves. Distant relatives, you can be sure, and not nearly as famous, but obviously just as creative in the kitchen.

Now that I'm (older and) wiser, I recognize that these little dumplings (yes, technically they are dumplings and/or doughnuts--I checked!) are in fact Ebelskivers, and yes, I do know that elves are not involved in their making. Just the same, I was really excited to find an Ebelskiver pan at the store today! I didn't even hesitate to buy it--and I can't wait to make them for my kidsters.

Here's the one teeny tiny problem. The thing that makes these little goodies so dang tasty is the filling. While the "normal" person would have limitless choices for suitable filling, I have an issue. (OK--I have lots of issues--but let's just stick to the subject at hand...)

Here's the issue: I hate (abhor, distaste, find icky) anything involving cooked fruit. Most people fill these morsels with compote, jam or jelly--ew! I need some tantalizing suggestions that don't involve fruited fillings. I'm thinking of creamy custards, melted chocolate, sweetened creams... I suppose I could treat them like beignets and just powder them in confectioners sugar... And how about making them into savory little nibbles? I could fill them with melted cheeses and ham.

Hmmm. I'll have to give this some thought. What are your Suggestions???

Missing The Mister

Remember when I said that the house would be cleaner with The Mister gone for the week? Usually it is, but this time I was mistaken.

I went to work (apparently I do still have a job), and then I started to clean the house, but my cozy bed just didn't want to be made. It beckoned to me and I submitted to a (very brief) nap.

I never nap (really!) but I made an exception today. I think it's all that getting up early to get everyone out the door on time... The Mister is truly missed in the morning. (And by the way--I really, truly hate mornings... I'm glad The Mister is a morning person.) Getting the hooligans out the door on time isn't easy without help. Mister, come home!

My idea of bliss? The Mister comes home to a clean house, he wakes up early to get the kids out the door, I sleep in... bliss...

When The Mister's Away....

I love The Mister. Have I ever mentioned that? I just thought I should start this post by making that perfectly clear--because in a minute you might wonder...


The Mister is away on business. That means he's in Florida (enjoying golf and sunshine) while we remain here, entrenched in the snow. There's something about having The Mister away on business... I always complain and carry-on a little, but really I don't mind so much. Sometimes it seems like we actually talk more while he's away. I think that's because he is forced to stay awake for the meetings and mandatory dinners. By the time he calls, it's late and the kids are in bed, so I get his full attention. When he's home, his attention is divided between 5 kids and household responsibilities, and then he goes to bed early... We hardly ever get a chance to talk when he's here.


And the weirdest thing??? When The Mister is gone, the house gets tidier (and stays that way). I'm still working of theories for that one. I think he encourages more "messy" play with the buddies and then it doesn't always get cleaned up. Also--ever since we've been married I have referred to The Mister as Paper Man. Paper Man is the superhuman paper scattering machine. Once he enters the house, all horizontal surfaces inexplicably become covered with collected bits and pieces of paper... Business cards, receipts, notes, fliers, articles, you name it! I don't miss Paper Man when The Mister is away.


So, if you're in the neighborhood, please stop by! The house is unusually tidy, and I'd enjoy the adult company! And Mister, come home soon, but leave the extra bits of paper at the hotel!

How to End a Week

I want to change the calendar. Why is it that calendars always show Sunday as the beginning of the week? Isn't Sunday the second day of a two day weekend? How is it part of the weekend if it's at the first of the week? Where's the sense in that? And anyway--doesn't Sunday just seem more like the end of the weekend, and thus, the end of the whole week? Who starts their week at the end?

I'm going to lobby to move Monday to the first column on the calendar. Who's with me here?

Here's my plan: Start on Monday, survive the 5 work days--celebrate for two days. Repeat...

So much better. So, next week (tomorrow--because Sunday is now the end of my current week), I'm going to be so organized. I'll get everything done early in the week and maybe I'll even be able to start my weekend celebration a little early. Don't you think the weekend deserves an extra day? Friday, you better look out! I see a celebration heading your way!

Silent Night - NOT a Christmas Post

We've just emerged from a snowy streak which involved three solid days of snowfall and blowing drifts. We worried about whether or not the school buses would make it. We worried about whether or not the kitties were too cold in the garage. We worried about getting the snowplow driver here in time to make it to our appointments. We enjoyed the beautiful scenery, but still, we worried.


Yesterday, the weather turned the corner. After the final flurries of the morning, we emerged from our snow encased house to enjoy the warming weather. The clouds cleared, revealing pale blue skies and thin sunshine. The wind was nonexistent, and the kids fled the house to hit the hills on their sleds.


At the end or our carefree day of beautiful weather, we were shocked when our power went out a few minutes after 9pm! There seemed to be nothing precipitating the fall of darkness upon our neighborhood. But our powerless community went quiet and dark and became invisible to the residents of the valleys.

We stayed here for the night, snuggled warm in our beds. But by sunrise, our bedrooms were hovering under the 60* mark. I'm sure it would have been worse if the wind had kicked back up, but the evening remained quiet--unnaturally quiet. In fact, I repeatedly dreamed that the power was back on... I thought I heard the furnace run, I thought I heard the dryer, I thought I heard the TV, but I didn't. It remained quiet outside my dream altered mind.

Our home was back to near-normal by noon today. I'm happy to report that the TV is back on and the laundry is running through the cycles. We seem to have fried our Internet connection, but thank goodness for The Mister's air card, which is the only way to get Internet today. We enjoyed a fun morning with Grandma and Grandpa at their house. They fed us a yummy breakfast and entertained us for the morning. It's nice to have family so close so we can crash there when needed.

It sometimes seems like we're cursed for living where we do. We sure have our fair share of excitement. But I love it here, and I'm not thinking about changing anything!

Ice Crystal Filigree

Isn't it crazy what a change of perspective can reveal? We've lived in our house for over two years now, but last night a new sight was revealed.

Last night's storm blew in with a vengeance. When we returned home, it was an unseasonably warm evening. Ten minutes later, I told the kids to turn down the noise. I thought it was the TV or video games, it was actually the wind! But the relentless winds showed their mercy by providing this interesting image on my front door. The snow that swirled around my front porch, encased the filigree of my door with crystallized particles.

The Two-Fer Post

The inevitable has happened (and only 5 months into licensed drivership)... The Eldest got his first speeding citation today while driving the Volvo. To be fair, he was driving down a very steep (very long) hill where the speed limit is only 25. I've had experience with this particular hill. I know for a fact that the only way to keep your speed under 25 is to stand on your brake pedal. Obviously, he was not standing on the brake pedal...

So the question of the day is this: Was I just looking for trouble when I handed him the keys to that awesome machine of powerfulness? Let's recall that it's the exact same vehicle that Edward Cullen drives in the Twilight books (and it's way awesome-r than the car they used in the movie...). Yea, I shoulda known it was gonna be reason for harassment...

The Eldest's Version:

*sigh* OK... let me start by saying Edward is a dork. I love his choice in cars... but Alice's 911 turbo is just hot.

This fine evening, after freezing my toes, fingers, rear, and brain while sledding, I was headed off to get dinner with a friend. I just happened to be driving 9 MPH over the posted limit that I had always thought was 35.... I got a ticket for going 34 in a 25. But that wasn't the worst of it, do any of you lovely readers know "Killer's Hill?" You turn south at the light in front of Micron. THIS HILL IS IMPOSSIBLE!!!!!

First, this cop wasn't even behind me. He passed me going the other way, then took the lovely opportunity I gave him to turn around and catch up to me 3 minutes later. For all I know, he might have tagged someone else!

And so we see that Lehi cops are stiff (and BTW, Alpine cops are just bored out of their skulls).
So, don't speed... it's naughty, and I officially hate Lehi. My hometown is better. ^.^

Ever Have One of Those Days?

Some days are just like that.

I went out early and worked my new job today. I even had some success. Later, I learned that the job I thought I had, I might not really have. I might not really have it because I'm not sure it still exists. And I'm pretty sure that if it doesn't exist, I'm not gonna get paid. And if I'm not gonna get paid, I sure as heck am not gonna keep working. Did you follow that?

Anyway--after this enlightening discovery, I decided that the best thing to do would be to pack up the kids and go out for dinner. Enough said.

What's Your Passion?

I recently read an article that said you should only blog about topics about which you feel passionate. That's an interesting concept--and probably a really good idea. Here's my dilemma... I am not deep and complex--I am shallow... *name that movie* There are lots of things I'd put on my List of Favorites, but I'm not sure any of those things qualify as passions. I think (if I search really deep) I might be able to come up with something, in the meantime, you'll have to settle for my ramblings of insignificance.

I can list a few things about which I have strong feelings. Is that good enough? If so, these would be among my topics...

1. Breakfast should include Diet Coke (for moms, not kids).
2. Cupcakes belong in the acceptable breakfast food group.
3. Winter is heavenly (several of my neighbors disagree--they're threatening to sell their snow ensconced houses in favor of beach front property).
4. Carrying a great purse is empowering (even if it's empty).
5. The perfect shoes (usually high-heeled boots) make the outfit.
6. A good hairstylist is worth keeping (a good housekeeper even more so).
7. Birthdays should involve presents and/or a night out (sans kids).
8. The Christmas holidays get better after Christmas Day.
9. Dance trips are as much for my relaxation as they are for The Princess' dancing.
10. Triplets get better with age.
11. Bodies that have born triplets get saggier with age.
12. Teenage boys are an ongoing source of amusement/frustration/confusion.
13. Daughters who dance are a joy to watch (and cost a lot of money).
14. Every mother needs a daughter.
15. Every daughter needs a mother.
16. It's good to have involved grandparents.
17. It's good to love your Mister.
18. It's even better if your Mister loves you.
19. Families can be together forever (and I think I'm OK with that).
20. Blogging is more fulfilling when comments are involved.
21. Cummings Studio Chocolates are the best (especially Boston Opera Creams and Bacardi Rum Creams--don't judge me!).

The last entry is one I have very strong feelings about--strong negative feelings (hey, not all strong feelings are warm and fuzzy!).

22. Diets.

That's my list--I hope you weren't looking for some nice, round number, 'cause that's all I've got. So how about you? What's your passion?

Karma or Murphy's Law

Isn't it always the way things go?

The kids are out of school for what, two weeks? That's plenty of time to catch a cold, nurse it better with the help of a favorite blankie, fuzzy socks, hot tang and/or other warm elixirs, and then get over it. Right?

But, no. Nobody around here (except me) gets sick all through the holidays. The kids are healthy and happy and fully enjoying the snow... And then the first morning back to school arrives, bringing with it sore throats, runny noses, and hacking coughs.

What's with that? Is it Karma? Murphy's Law? Bad Luck? Just typical? End of term testing? Do you think I should be a little suspicious???

And you know what? Those who aren't sick (yet) will be, just as soon as they mingle with all the other little germies in their Kindergarten classes! Oh, I can hardly wait!

Goals and Imminent Failure

According to well established tradition, this is the time of year to set goals or resolutions in an effort to start life anew. That's all fine and everything, but why is it that most of us set goals regarding our weight--and those goals come into play just after the month of holiday feasting? Does that seem unfair to anyone else? I think there is a certain amount of unfairness here.

So, in the spirit of fairness--I'm giving myself another month before I trepidatiously resume my deprived eating odyssey. Actually, I think I'm going to wait until after I have Cummings Studio chocolates for Valentine's Day. Of course, after Valentine's I'll have to get some Dove chocolate truffle eggs for Easter. It wouldn't be fair to ask me to forgo those Doves--they only sell them for a few weeks each year. And then, of course, I'll be obligated to indulge in chocolate cake for my birthday... You wouldn't want me to miss out on my own birthday cake, would you??? Hmmm maybe I'll have to wait until swimsuit season gets here to start worrying about it. Is that too late?

You know, maybe I'm just not destined to be a successful weight loss kind of gal... I've lost a little weight (check out my SkinnyR Graph!). But maybe I've arrived on some perverse weight loss plateau of doom that just won't be breached.

At this point, I have to ask...
Does anyone feel even slightly inclined
to recommend Liposuction???

What a Waste

It's not really 7:32 pm, is it? I have officially wasted an entire Saturday. I don't know how I did it. I showered, got dressed (in sweats), did a little (very little) laundry, and yet, the day is nearly gone and I still have so much waiting to get done!

Example: I still need to get Christmas packed away, I need to make the beds (ok, maybe not now...), I need to do about a zillion more loads of laundry, and I probably ought to brush my teeth (was that too much information?).

How is it that all my good intentions result in so little action? I guess I'll blame it on my ongoing lack of sleep, the sinus headache, and my annoying cough. Problem is, now I've set myself up. Now I'll be expected to accomplish more as soon as I stop sneezing and coughing... I'll have to see what I can do to extend those symptoms a little longer. :)

It's a Secret!

I know the Secret. Do you know the Secret? Do you want to know the Secret? I'm not going to get into a long winded discussion with anyone, but I have very definite theories regarding the Secret.

I have friends and acquaintances who have been going on (and on) about the book The Secret for the past couple of years. I've had a copy sitting in my office for months. It wasn't something I ever intended to read, but The Boy brought it home one day after a friend at school had recommended it to him. So here it sat, collecting dust, until I figured I should read it and make him return it to his friend.

So I read it. Have you read it? Did you like it? Did you believe it? Did it change your life forever? My answer to those questions: ugh--I mean yes, not even a little, not a chance, not that I noticed.

I consider myself to be a rational and logical person. I think I live in the real world with a healthy (yet acceptable) amount of pessimism. But I also think I have a mind that is open to new ideas--within reason. However, I had the hardest time taking this book seriously. It reminded me of being a kid and chanting to myself (under the covers, of course),

There is no such thing as a boogyman!

And guess what, no boogyman ever appeared. Do you think that's because I willed it? Or because it's just the way things are?

I have a friend who grew up telling her mom,

I'm going to be a beautiful princess--and you can be my maid.

She may be beautiful (and really smart!) but I have yet to be invited to her coronation. And last time I heard, her mom was living a nice life without any obligation to fold towels or change bed linens.

To be clear, I do believe in positive thinking. I believe that a good attitude can lead to good things. But thinking healthy thoughts cures cancer??? Sorry, I just can't accept that.

So my questions to you are these:

Did you read it?
Did you believe it?
Do you have specific examples of it working in your life?

I promise (honestly) not to judge you--but I have to know! Am I the only one who found it monotonous and somewhat ridiculous?

A Plea for Help

It's true, I am affected by a severely debilitating condition known as Comment Deficiency. It's an embarrassing state in which to be, I only confide this because I know you are my friends.

The sad truth about my state of affliction is that there is nothing I can do about it. I have tried to bolster my strength by asking questions, doing research, posting witty commentary... And yet, I have no comments to show for it.

I put my fate in your hands, my dear friends, and appeal to you for your support. My condition is not contagious, in fact, by sharing your comments with me, it will make us both stronger. Do not let me continue to dwindle in isolation. Please, post a comment here and I will reciprocate on your blog.

If I am unable to rally enough support, I am sure my deficiency will spread to other aspects of my life. You can save me--COMMENT TODAY!!! (please???)