Asphalt & Brie

Shalom Richmond Class #2 & Class #3

2012-01-29T18:58:00.001-05:00

Last week Bill Martin gave a fantastic presentation on the history of Richmond. Funny, although I'm a native Richmonder, I learn something new about the city I love each time I hear Bill talk.

Richmond's history didn't begin with the Civil War, though some would like to think so. Nor did it end with the surrender of Lee to Grant. Richmond is a an incredible city and is sooo much more than the Civil War. Is Richmond's history, perfect--nope. There is good and bad to every city, but I don't think folks give the City enough credit for the good that she has done and does. I'm not sure what folks think of when the criticize the city. Are they criticizing the City because the city government was in such mess. Are they criticizing the City because they had a bad experience there...couldn't find parking, got a parking ticket. Are they telling their friends and family not to go to the city because you know, it's just a little too, um, urban? ethnic? underserved? (which we all know are code words for "black people".) Just what are folks afraid of about the City. Crime doesn't just happen in urban areas. Unfortunately, when it does happen in the suburbs, it's residents like to say it's because the "urban" folks have brought it into our neighborhoods.

Any way, I digress, where was I.... yes, Shalom Richmond, Class #3. I missed today's class as I was participating as a judge for The Gloucester Institute's Emerging Leaders Program. OH. MY. GOODNESS! This was the most incredible day. I along with 4 other "judges" reviewed fundraising letters written by the young women and men participating in the program. The students did a fantastic job given that they have never, ever written a letter asking for funding. The writing was so top notched that not one but two winners were chosen! You really, really need to learn more about The Gloucester Institute, the Emerging Leaders Program and the other programs of TGI! www.gloucesterinstitute.org

I did receive the power point presentation from today's class. John V. Moeser, Senior Fellow, Bonner Center for Civic Engagement, University of Richmond did a ppt on the An Overview of Poverty, Race, and Jurisdiction in Metropolitan Richmond. Just from reading the slides I can only guess there were some pretty interesting conversations/questions/etc. going on in class. I was surprised by some of the stats and a few times my mouth just dropped open.

It just seems all so overwhelming. How in the world can I make a difference in the City? It just seems impossible. I CAN"T do it! But God can! For Pete's sake, he parted the Red Sea! He gave up his only Son for me! Impossible?! With God EVERYTHING is possible! So I continue to pray and ask God to show me what exactly he wants me to do to make a difference in this City.

The City I love.

Shalom Richmond, Class #1

2012-01-15T13:45:00.001-05:00

"Hurry up! Let's go! We gotta get to Sunday School! I bet you never thought you would hear me say that, huh?", I shouted to Hubby this morning.

Honestly, I was just amazed at just how excited I was to go to Sunday School. I even dreamed about the class, really, I did.

Today's class served as an introduction to the class and what to expect. The class was very full. It had folks attending who were new to Richmond area, some that have been here for years and still others, like myself, born and raised in the city.

We had a chance to do some table work and have discussion with our table to answer three questions (which, I didn't write down). The discussion at my table was great. We talked about where we would take a visitor to help give them an understanding of the Richmond region. We also talked about what the thought was the culture of Richmond.

Next week we will hear from Bill Martin, Director of the Valentine Museum. He'll give us a history of Richmond. I've heard Bill speak before and I am thrilled that he will be at Stony Point. I love history and I really love Richmond history, so to learn about my city, Richmond is very exciting.

I've been feeling a pull toward the city these last few years, but when you marry a "country boy" the chances of moving to the city is 0. Heck, he thinks where we live in the suburbs is not country enough. But I pray that God will show me, us, clearly where he wants to be and how to serve the city of Richmond.

Meanwhile, here is a a link to our homework assignment., Tim Keller speaks to why cities are important.. adrianwarnock.com/2009/03/why-cities-matter-tim-keller/

Until Next Week!

Andrea

Shalom Richmond - Race, Poverty, and Kingdom of God

2012-01-08T15:06:00.000-05:00

Click here for more info on the class

Starting next Sunday, January 15th, a first of its kind Sunday School class at our church starts and I'm just thrilled about it...now.

At first I was worried that a class like this- that is bound to blow apart folks preconceived or ill conceived opinions about race, poverty and kingdom of God-- would become nothing more than a rehash of stereotypes about African-Americans and a rehash of the civil war and a rah-rah session for Republicanism and conservatism. It wouldn't be the first time that I left a Sunday School class and felt like it was nothing more than an apologetics class for conservatism and the GOP. I remember telling the Hubster, that I didn't think I was going to go to this class because of this. But then a change happened. I talked to the person that is putting the class together.

Her excitement about the class became my excitement. I am soooo now looking forward to this class. I pray that I will have an open and discerning mind to listen to the speakers and comments class participants may have, even if I don't agree with them. I pray that the way I think about those that different than me would be changed. Not just racially different, but socio-economically different as well.

To help me process and apply all that I learn, I will blog each Sunday afternoon that the class is held. The blog post will be about me and me only. It will not be a blog about what others said. It will be about me and how God wants to be involved in his kingdom work in Richmond.

Shalom,

Andrea

You "like" me! You really, really "like" me!

2012-01-06T16:12:00.000-05:00

So the other day my co-worker got after me for posting a status just to get a reaction from folks. It was fun conversation we had about it and I realized that everyone that posts to Facebook is doing so for some kind of reaction. We post to get the following reactions from people:

1. Sympathy
2. Approval
3. Comfort
4. Encouragement
5. Agreement
6. Make people uncomfortable
7. Prove a point
8. Provoke
9. Stir the pot
10. Disapproval
11. Kudos
12. Jealousy
13. Action--click here, vote here, donate here, buy, sell, help me find, help me get rid of, get advice, sign-up here, believe, pray, laugh, subscribe, unsubscribe, laugh, cry, don't believe, share, etc.

Because really, if we don't want folks to react then why post status updates? Why not just use the message feature to directly communicate with friends? Why not use the message feature or better yet, use the privacy features and limit your information just to friends or even just to certain people or certain groups of friends.

Am I saying it is bad to post update?

ABSOLUTELY NOT!

I guess I'm trying to get a reaction out you. My #14 Reason-- Raise Awareness.

What do you think? Am I off base? (reason #2)

Crater Community Hospice and the Amazing Raise

2011-10-05T11:42:00.000-04:00

I'm on the Board of Directors for this amazing organization. I wish I had known more about hospice care and all that they can do to support not only the patient but the family as well.

CCH is participating in a 36 hour funraising marathon called The Amazing Raise. CCH along with hundreds of other non-profits in Central and Southside Virginia are making an all out effort to raise money for their organizations and compete for additional funding from GiveRichmond. Please dontate today!

CCH is the only not-for-profit community-based hospice program in the Richmond and tri-cities areas.

CCH was established in 1995 after a need for hospice services was identified by both John Randolph Hospital in Hopewell and Southside Regional Medical Center in Petersburg. At that time both facilities were community hospitals and recognized that a community based hospice could better serve the cities of Petersburg, Colonial Heights, Hopewell, and Emporia as well as the counties of Charles City, Chesterfield, Dinwiddie, Greensville, Prince George, Surry, and Sussex.

CCH is governed by a Volunteer Board of Directors and an appointed Chief Executive Officer who is responsible for the day to day management of the organization. Board members live and work in the areas served by CCH as do all staff and volunteers. With a vested interest in the community, CCH strives to provide not only high quality hospice services but also multiple community services necessary to improve upon the overall quality of life to all who reside in the area.

CCH maintains a strong presence in the community through membership and attendance in the Colonial Heights, Emporia, Chesterfield County, Petersburg, Dinwiddie, Hopewell-Prince George Chambers of Commerce. CCH employees are members of other local rotary clubs and serve on boards of local non-profit agencies. CCH clinical staff are highly respected for their expertise in pain management, symptom management, end-of-life care planning, and spiritual and grief counseling. Health care professionals and others in the community often call upon our staff for advice in assisting with situations prior to the actual referral for hospice services.

Um, about that whole going natural post....

2011-08-14T16:07:00.001-04:00

Not happening. My hair started breaking off and finding a salon willing to help me through the transition process was very hard to find. I didn't have the courage to do the big chop so I decided to go back to the creamy crack.

I may find the courage and strength to go natural, but not right now.

2011 Richmond Jazz Festival

2011-08-14T15:52:00.004-04:00

Since the Richmond Jazz Festival organizers are deleting negative comments about the 2011 Jazz Festival, feel free to post your comments, both negative and positive here. Please keep posts about the Jazz Festival and not resort to attacks and name calling of posters whose festival going experiences are different than yours.

Respect.

Back to My Roots

2011-02-09T12:24:00.001-05:00

I'm currently transitioning from relaxed back to my natural hair. Gonna get some braids to help the hair grow out a bit more. Will post pics of my Back to My Roots Journey!

Andrea and Christine discuss the merits of "Becoming an Outdoor Woman".

2011-01-26T14:39:00.003-05:00

Becoming an Outdoor Woman -

Andrea--I may have read this too fast, but when are the mani-pedis and hot stone massages scheduled?

Christine--OK, Andrea, you and I can do that for each other.

Andrea-- Kinky!

Christine-- No, it's the SISTERHOOD, baby!

Andrea---You know we are Asphalt and brie girls, right? Am I gonna be spending the whole weekend asking, "where's the porcelain"? This heiny ain't using a port-a-john or outhouse. Just saying. And they women better not look butch. I mean, if you gonna go all lezzie and everything at least put some lipstick on--just sayin'... (It's a joke, no hate comments, please).

Andrea--But seriously, I am intrigued.....

Christine-- There were actual bathrooms, although the hot showers were less than reliable. And comfy mattresses on the beds. And all the hot beverages and stuff you could suck down. And the women were, well---all kinds. Some even came from Va. It was a... great weekend, really, and you KNOW I am not one to rough it.

Andrea--I'm considering it, but you know one little black person in the woods with a bunch of white folks don't usually end up well for my people.

Andrea--I can picture you, Christine sitting in a deer stand with your red high heels on. :-)

Christine-- Yeah, you'd be underrepresented. Also, I have to admit I spent the whole time thinking we could do it just as well from a base camp at the Hilton.

Andrea--Like

There Will Be Parties!

2010-09-17T15:25:00.000-04:00

It seems our little class of 16 kids couldn't just do with 1 room mother. No. We have 4...count'em,.. 4 room moms! And they've given themselves the name, Room Mom Council.

Doesn't that sound cute.

Doesn't that sound wonderful.

Doesn't that sound like they'll break my knee caps if I don't pay them "get out of snack duty" protection money.

Is this overkill or what? I guess no one wanted to just say, "Hey, I'll take a year off and let only one mom do it".

Maybe, and I'm really hoping this is the case, each mom was so busy and could only commit to 1/4 of the Room Mom duties. In any case, with all that mom power this means there will be endless celebrations.

One thing I learned with my oldest is that in elementary school, they celebrate EVERYTHING! Now with 4 times the power that means we'll probably end up celebrating some Canadian and Mexican holidays, too.

I guess I shouldn't rag on the moms for volunteering their time and energy to such matters. Goodness we certainly need these over-achieving types to offset the slacker moms in the group. You know the ones who sign up to bring ONE roll of paper towels for the whole year.

But, hey, I did get Bounty.

One mans chatter is another man's music....

2010-09-05T18:13:00.000-04:00

Went to visit dad this afternoon at the rehab place. My stepmom, oldest Sister and her daughter was there. I was hoping that dad would be up and sitting in his wheelchair outside, like yesterday, but no...he was a bit on the tired-side so he was taking it easy in bed. He was a bit sleepy too, but his drifting off to la-la land wouldn't last. After my stepmom left in came the rest of the gang. Two other sisters with more grandkids. It was great time as the kids decided the empty bed in Dad's room would be ideal for sitting, climbing, jumping and just well...one giant toy for their enjoyment.

Now if you know my family you would know that we are anything but quiet. The kids got all loud and excited about seeing the nurses taking a smoking break outside dad's window. I think my niece called them stupid.

I asked my dad if the kids were getting on his nerves. He said no. I asked him if he was loving all this noise and he said he was.

I think all their chatter and noise was music to his ears.

Real Housewives, Puh-leeze!

2010-08-13T08:48:00.000-04:00

Forget Real Housewives of DC, OC, NJ or NY--I want to see the real husbands of those dames. They are lot more interesting and have more sense than their wives--well, not all of them (I'm looking at you crazy Salahi's.

I told myself I wasn't going to even waste time on the Real Housewives of DC. I mean, helloooooo, only one of them live in DC (I sooo want to be Stacie's BFF) and the crazy Salahis just get on my last nerve.

Everyone of those ladies on the show have money except the Salahis and they act like they are friggin' royalty. People that I know that have money(and I don't know many)don't flaunt it the way these broke-ass too. In fact you would never, even know they have money.

They just tacky, tacky. Tacky Salahi's.

That end my Real Housewives rant.

Beeeeeee! Beeeeeeee!

2010-08-06T20:57:00.000-04:00

It seems like I've been singing the same, sad song since January and it goes a little something like this:

"I'm tired. I'm so tired. I don't feel so good. I'm tired. I can't handle this. I'm tired. I'm drained."

Yeah, it's not exactly racing up the Billboards.

I'm both physically and mentally tired and I'm realizing more and more how much energy it takes me just be "up" and by up and I mean, being my happy go-lucky, sarcastic, make everyone laugh--up. It's soooooo draining.

So allow me, just for a moment to. . .

Be.

Just, to be.

While I'm "being"---enjoy this commercial that made me laugh out loud and be up...if only for 31 seconds.

Too tired to blog, so enjoy this. . .

2010-07-29T14:39:00.000-04:00

Embarrassed Older Brother - 1, Little Rex 0

2010-07-23T21:02:00.000-04:00

I must give my oldest credit. He has masterfully played Little Rex and the beauty of it all is, Little Rex has no idea.

This story all starts with a glorified spinning top called beyblades.

Last week while at Toys R Us letting Little Rex pick out a present, I noticed that beyblades had made a comeback. My oldest played with these things a lot when he was a wee bit younger, so when the oldest came back from vacay with his cousins, I told him about my find. He was excited

"I bet Joel would like them, " he said.

The plotting had begun.

Fast forward to about an hour ago.

The oldest is suppose to be packing for a mission trip, instead, I see him "showing" Joel something on the computer.

Hmmm, this is highly suspicious as my oldest NEVER voluntarily does anything for Little Rex.

My suspicions are confirmed when Little Rex asks me to come into the computer room because he has something to show me.

The something?

YouTube videos of beyblades "fighting" in a ring and featuring some scenes from a beyblades cartoon.

Next thing I know Little Rex is talking about how cool they are and how he wants one

*
*
*
*

and oh, can we get one for his brother.

Well played, oldest. Well played.

What a n* gotta do to get some orange chicken 'round here!

2010-07-23T15:50:00.000-04:00

See how we sound to those 'round us when we use the n* word--

Nerd Family: Proof #34543

2010-07-21T21:23:00.000-04:00

Scene: Little Rex and I watching Tour de France tonight.

LR: Mommy, what's a peloton.

Me (slightly annoyed): You know what a peloton is.

LR: No I don't.

Me: You have been watching the Tour de France since you were born. You know good and well what a peloton is.

Aren't black nerds cute

Alllllrighty then.....

2010-07-21T16:08:00.000-04:00

From the JSOline:

Board rejects 'whiteman' ballot language from Milwaukee candidate
By Jason Stein and Patrick Marley of the Journal Sentinel

Madison — State elections officials narrowly rejected a Milwaukee Assembly
candidate's attempt to run with the slogan "NOT the 'whiteman's bitch' " under
her name on the ballot. Ieshuh Griffin, a Milwaukee independent running to
replace retiring Rep. Annette "Polly" Williams (D-Milwaukee), said in response
she would sue the Government Accountability Board for infringing on her freedom
of speech."I'm not making a derogatory statement toward an ethnic group. I'm
stating what I'm not," Griffin told board members. "It's my constitutional right
to freedom of speech."

Why kindergarten at the private Christian school just may not work out

2009-08-02T18:17:00.000-04:00

Little Rex and his unfiltered mouth was at it again this week at daycare.

According to his teacher, Little Rex decided to take a poll. With his hand in the air, he asked the class.

"Hey everybody! Who in here thinks Miss L*** is sexy!"

"I do!" yelled another kid as he raised his hand up high.

Sexy may play at preschool but at the Christian school...uhhhh, maybe not so much.

I see lots of teacher notes in our future.

Mid-Week Laugh

2009-07-29T10:57:00.001-04:00

The Daily Show With Jon Stewart

Mon - Thurs 11p / 10c

Henry Louis-Gate - Race Card

http://www.thedailyshow.com/

Daily Show
Full Episodes

Political Humor

Joke of the Day

Let's Play "What are the problems with the this job announcement?"

2009-07-26T19:03:00.000-04:00

GRANT WRITER NEEDED TO WRITE GRANTS FOR THE NON-PROFIT of RICHMOND*, A NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION WITH 105 AFFILATES IN 35 STATES. FEE AWARDED UPON SUCCESSFUL AWARDING OF THE GRANT TO NONPROFIT. THE CURRENT PROGRAMS AT THE LEAGUE ARE; EMPLOYMENT, HOUSING AND HEALTH. THE LEAGUE ALSO HAS A SATELITE OFFICE IN PETERSBURG,VA. FUND RAISERS ARE ALSO NEEDED. PLEASE ONLY EXPERIENCED CANIDATES APPLY.

*Name of organization changed only. Everything else is as they typed it!

Girls Weekend

2009-07-26T14:04:00.001-04:00

Went away to D.C. last weekend my mom, sisters, niece and one tag-along nephew. Here's the weekend in pictures.

Lazy Saturday Afternoon

2009-07-25T12:10:00.000-04:00

After getting up early to watch well-built men tackle Mt. Ventoux in the Tour de France, the family is now just lazing about.

Hubby is sleep.

Little Rex is busy trying to wake Hubby up so he can play with his water gun.

Older Brother is mesmerized by the Wii.

I'm doing a load of laundry, after spending this morning cleaning the bathroom, changing the linens, making waffles from scratch, and cleaning the living room--that was all before 10:30 this morning.

I guess not EVERYONE in the house is lazing....at least not me...

Awwww, they always know just what to say....

2009-06-27T13:09:00.001-04:00

My boys have made my day.

This morning while at the pool and feeling a bit like a stuffed sausage in my swimsuit, Little Rex said, "That's a nice one on you momma!"....

And this afternoon, Older Brother asked me if a pair a sweatpants he found in his drawer were mine.

Me: Nope those aren't mine. Those are your dad's.

OB: I don't think their Daddy's. They're a small.

Me: Yes, they are your dads and thank you so much for thinking I can wear a small.

Extra allowance for everybody!

Three Wishes

2009-06-04T10:17:00.000-04:00

I wish I was on vacation -- not a staycation -- a vacation! Far from home. No cooking. No cleaning. Just me and a really great crabcake reading the latest Stacy Hawkins Adams book or the next book in The #1 Ladies Detective Agency.

I wish I had a bigger house, but hate to clean so though I wish for it, I don't really want it.

I wish I could get motivated to do more than just wish....

And now for something completely mindless:

"I'm going to . . ."

2009-05-28T12:28:00.000-04:00

Hey Bonnie Sweeten!

You just committed identity theft, lied about being kidnapped by two black guys, went to Disney World and possibly embezzled $300,000! So what are you going to do next!
I'm going to jail!

Sunday Morning

2009-05-17T08:27:00.000-04:00

It's Sunday Morning. The day we all head out to Sunday School and Church. We've been doing this routine for years. We all know that come Sunday, it's time to go to church.

So why can't these folks get up? The Hubby and Kids and snoozing away. I'm already dressed, rollers out my hair and have time to Facebook, Blog, read e-mails and scan the local newspapers online.

And yet, when they finally do get up, get dressed, eat and start heading to the car guess who's the last in---ME!

I <3 Aisha!

2009-05-16T09:50:00.001-04:00

I so want to go buy furniture from this place

2009-04-30T08:58:00.000-04:00

Swine Flu and You

2009-04-25T18:49:00.000-04:00

If this swine flu thing turns out to be an pandemic, and I'm praying its not--just media hype, things are going to get pretty crazy at work.

My Association's members are community health centers and will more than likely, along with other health care providers and E/R, get slammed big-time. With people who are really sick, people who think they are sick and other with regularly scheduled appointments, next week is probably not the best time to go in to see a doc. You probably won't be able to get an appointment anyway.

More info on this flu business can be found at the CDC website. Of course common sense things like, stay home you sick, wash your hands, don't touch your mouth or nose can help prevent the spread of flu, swine or otherwise.

So stock up on your Oscillococcinum, vitamin c, orange juice, tissues and wash your hands like you have OCD or something...

Grief

2009-04-09T16:04:00.000-04:00

Some times it is just too much to bear.

I am heartbroken. Over the last year I have had so many friends lose their children and spouses and now, another has gone on to be with the Lord. Or as Little Rex put it..."he's gone to heaven already?"

Nancy is now a widow with three young children. Her hubby and our friend, Brian died unexpectedly last night, long after I had left their home after stopping by briefly to admire and giggle over our latest purchases from one of those home parties. Brian and I even joked about "Great minds thinking alike" after we joked about the kids visit to Mt. Vernon and wooden teeth.

Ken and the kids waited in the car while we visited....we all in a rush to get home...maybe I should've just slowed down and said come on out of there and sit a spell with the Halls.

I'm sure there will be lots of wouldv'es, couldv'es, shouldv'es over the next few months. But God is the the Lord, not only of the here and now, and of the come what may, but He is also the Lord of the past...and He will not let us dwell there with regret, but with memories, great memories of a man who loved his wife, kids and his Saviour.

God bless the Halls.

I'm just awful...

2009-03-30T13:19:00.000-04:00

Hubby and Little Rex made is safely to Trinidad. Hubby called last night at 2:00 a.m. for a quick update and lo, what do I hear but the voice of Little Rex in the background...at 2:00 AM! Hmmm, it would seem that Daddy's rules about bedtime don't apply while visting the Grands.

Hubby had the opportunity to visit some "friends" in the big city. I say "friends" 'cuz these folks were among a few of the trusted friends we thought we had in Trinidad that caused a great disturbance at church, betrayed confidences and even threatened to bop me in the head..yeah, it got that ugly.

Hubby seems to be able to forgive and let it go but not me so when I heard that he visited, I was truly hoping that this would the be one time Little Rex's mouth and behaviour would not be contained. Go ahead kid and let that filter off your mouth, ask them embarrasing, totally inappropriate questions like do you have a penis (to a woman), and why are you fat and tell them their food is nasty. Go ahead, baby and make momma proud.

I told ya'll I was awful.

I would chew on my nails if they weren't fake

2009-03-25T10:03:00.000-04:00

In about two days 1/2 the family will be off to Trinidad. Hubby's parents are celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary with a big celebration. Hubby and Little Rex will be there representing our family.

I'm a very nervous about them going, especially Little Rex. He's such a wanderer and hubby, well, let's just say that men don't watch children the way women do. Hubby isn't doing anything to calm my fears..after all this is the man who once left the Oldest in Chinese restaurant.

Me: I'm worried. You'll fall asleep and Little Rex will run wild in the airplane.
Hubby: It's a confined space

Yeah, that helps.

And now for a little distraction

2009-03-20T11:07:00.000-04:00

This guy cracks me....

The Daily Show With Jon Stewart

M - Th 11p / 10c

The New White Face of Crime

comedycentral.com

Daily Show Full Episodes

Important Things w/ Demetri Martin

Political Humor

Winter has come...

2009-03-03T20:36:00.001-05:00

Fun 'n Games with Little Rex

2009-03-03T20:27:00.001-05:00

Five Minutes ago:
Little Rex (holding stick horse like a spear): Mommy, you pretend to be a bull and I'll stab you.

Me: No.

Little Rex: Yeeeessss. Run toward me--

Me: No, I'm not going to let you stab me--we are not playing Matador. You shouldn't stab anybody. Okay

Little Rex: Okay

I turn my back and out of corner of my eye I see Little Rex running toward me with the "spear"

Little Rex: Aaaarrrrhhhh. I stabbed you...

Three hours ago at Day care:
Little Rex to teacher, Mr. Sam: I love the snow. I could jump out the window and go play in the snow.

Mr. Sam: Oh, no...you'll hurt yourself.

Little Rex turns, runs out into the hallway, turns around and starts running back into the classroom heading for the window.

Fortunately Mr. Sam stopped him.

Where does he come up with these things?

Dagnabit!

2009-02-26T22:17:00.000-05:00

I wrote this great post yesterday about Crossroads Coffee and Ice Cream, memories and sense of community and then . . .

I hit the wrong button, hadn't saved my post and

PUFF!

Gone!

So now, I'm miffed and not feeling like recreating the post.

Just know it was the best post ever written in the history of mankind.

Oh and get yourself over to Crossroads Coffee and Ice Cream.

Open House

2009-02-24T20:19:00.000-05:00

Just got back in from open house at the Christian school Little Rex will attend in the Fall. His big bro is already there. I can't believe it's time for Little Rex to start kindergarten.

Now the question isn't "Is Little Rex ready for kindergarten?" The question is. . .

"Is kindergarten ready for Little Rex?"

Lets just say if he comes home with a note on the first day of school--

I won't be surprised.

Things to ponder

2009-02-15T18:57:00.000-05:00

How come some of these NASCAR dudes can look like toads but have the most gorgeous wives?

Name Game...Tag, your'e it!

2009-02-13T15:32:00.000-05:00

1.YOUR REAL NAME: Andrea Lynn Arthur

2.WITNESS PROTECTION NAME: (mother and fathers middle names): Bell Woodson

3.NASCAR NAME: (first name of your mother’s dad, father’s dad): Esau Bernard

4.STAR WARS NAME: (the first 3 letters of your last name, first 2 letters of your first name): Colan

5.DETECTIVE NAME: (favorite color, favorite animal): Blue Puppy

6.SOAP OPERA NAME: (middle name, town where you were born): Lynn Richmond

7.SUPERHERO NAME: (2nd fav color, fav drink, add “THE” to the beginning): The red water

8.FLY NAME: (first 2 letters of 1st name, last 2 letters of your last name): Anco

9.STREET NAME: (fav ice cream flavor, fav cookie): Vanilla Oreo

10 ROCK STAR NAME (pet’s name and street where you live): Chi Chi Arnold

11.YOUR GANGSTA NAME: (first 3 letters of real name plus izzle): Andizzle

12.YOUR IRAQI.. NAME: (2nd letter of your first name, 3rd letter of your last name, first two letters of your middle name, last two letters of your first name then last three letters of your last name): Nllynanles

BLOCKED!

2009-02-10T09:37:00.001-05:00

That's what I'm having to do with the in-laws, specifically hubby's brother and his wife. They send tons of e-mails, sometimes three or four in a day and the e-mails that say. . .

Absolutely nothing!

No "Hi, how's the family", no family update, nothing at all except FORWARDS of junk e-mail. Now didn't get me wrong...I have been known to forward an e-mail or two or more myself. But that is not my sole source of staying in touch with folks. I at least say hey, what's up...

Hubby has asked that they don't send us that stuff as we delete it right away but no, they keep sending it. So now, drastic measures must be employed.

Pathetic

2009-02-08T17:08:00.000-05:00

Thats what I am.

Pathetic.

I haven't posted anything since January 3rd.

Its not like I haven't thought about posting. I've thought about, formatted, and blogged a lot.

In my mind.

I just haven't sat down to put it all here.

Facebook is consuming way more time than it should.

Everytime I try to get away from Facebook, it just keeps pulling me back in.

Gotta jet now and change my Facebook status to: Andrea is blogging now.

First Little Rexism of the New Year!

2009-01-03T12:08:00.000-05:00

A friend was telling a couple of nights about a Rexism that occurred a couple of weeks ago in the nursery. It seems a wee one was having an extreme meltdown. Little Rex, the four-year-old, handled it his own by getting in the kids face and saying:

"You need to chill out man. Its not that bad!"

Can someone tell me what street corner my four year old is hanging out on?

Living La Vida Wheat Free

2008-12-30T09:47:00.000-05:00

Couple of weeks ago allergy testing revealed the usually allergens like, dust mites, trees, grasses, and mold and a few surprises: Cats, wheat and dairy.

Easy to live cat free as I have no cats, well, except for Bandit, the neighborhood cat that I have convinced the kids is theirs--just don't touch and feed, dahlings.

Going wheat and dairy free is going to be a struggle. The though of no more pbj sandwiches with a tall ice-cold glass of milk has me bordering on depression. Most wheat free breads taste downright awful, but a friend recommended I try this by Sami's Bakery. I had my doubts but after one bite I wanted to eat the whole loaf. Apparently lots of people love this bread 'cuz my beloved go-to store for all things natural and wholesome, Good Food Grocery had a signs up basically telling folks not to hoard the Sami goods. I'm also trying vanilla flavored soy milk.

If you have any recommendations for some good wheat free, dairy free eats, lemme know.

Christmas Punk'd!

2008-12-26T19:06:00.000-05:00

That's what Little Rex thought after my prank didn't go over too well.

After the kids went to bed Christmas Eve, I snuck back downstairs, removed their stockings and replaced them with bags of coal.

The next morning, Oldest Brother opened his bag of coal and laughed. Not Little Rex. He was already mad that Santa hadn't eaten all the cookies we had put out so he was not happy to see his stocking missing.

LR: Where's my stocking? What's this? Where my stocking go?

Me: Santa left you a little treat. Open it and see what it is?

LR: One rock, two rocks, three black rocks. Black rocks?

Me: Could it be coal?

LR: Coal? Why did Santa...I've been bad?

The pout set upon his face and he fell to his knees. A full blown meltdown of epic proportion was about to start. So I had to quickly "explain" that Santa had been in a hurry and left those bags by mistake. They were probably for the boys down the street. I then quickly grabbed the stockings from where I hid them.

All was better, or so I thought, until Little Rex told Grandma he had the worst Christmas ever because he got coal.

Granny: Andrea, what have you done?!

Me: I was just kidding...

Granny: Ohhhhh, he's going to have precious memories of this, okay, not precious, but he's gonna remember this forever.

Me: Yeah, to his therapist.

2008-12-17T10:22:00.000-05:00

I cannot buh-leve that I haven't posted anything for so long. I've been meaning to but just haven't done it. So here's a quick review of what has been going on....

Facebook
Board meetings
Meetings about grants
Got elected to local Association of Fundraising Professional Central VA Chapter Board
Said "piss me off" at a different board meeting
Froze at the Grand Illumination in Williamsburg (best fireworks)
Took the kiddies to GardenFest of Lights
Got my 'do done
Christmas shopping
Helping plan office Christmas Luncheon
Allergy testing
Planning how to eat a wheat-free and dairy-free from now on

That's it....

See! This is why I can't watch TV with Little Rex

2008-11-30T20:29:00.000-05:00

The other day I was watching a movie I hadn't seen before when Little Rex came in, crawled into my lap and got all snuggily. As we were watching, one the characters let fly some foul language. I was hoping that Little Rex hadn't noticed.

Yeah, right.

He looked at me and asked, "What does son of a bitch mean?"

So what did I do?

Burst out laughing!

I didn't mean to but if you had heard the way he said it, and repeated it it was just too funny. I realize I violated all the rules of parenthood by laughing because you know that would only encourage him to keep saying it and you all know from reading this blog the Little Rex is learning language that would qualify him for a gig as a sailor.

SOOOOO not wanting to get a call from the day care (again), I told him he must not ever, ever EV-ER say that again!

Yeah right!

Little Rexism of the Day and Bee Vomit

2008-11-26T22:22:00.000-05:00

The conversation after I called Hubby "Honey" in front of the kids.

Little Rex: Why did you call daddy Honey?

Me: 'Cuz he's sweet!

Little Rex: Bees didn't make daddy, God made daddy!

Me: Well God made bees, and bees make honey and honey is sweet and your daddy is sweet, so I'll call him honey.

What followed next was the whole family discussing how bee's make honey, was it bee poo or bee vomit.

Nice.

Nice talk on the way home from the Thanksgiving service.

Srumdilli-Uh Oh!

2008-11-22T13:05:00.000-05:00

So much for awesome sourdough bread. Okay, well only one loaf was AWESOME! The second loaf, ummmmm not so much.

As I started cutting the second loaf, I noticed that some of the slices seemed to have some uncooked areas in the bread, the further I cut the further the gooey dough until once slice revealed a large hole in the middle of the loaf, all gooey-like.

The only thing I think of is that a massive air bubble formed and popped as it cooked.

Oh well. The few slices I managed to save were. . .

AWESOME!

Little Rexism of the Day

2008-11-21T20:01:00.000-05:00

Hubby and I both showed up at the day care.

Me to Little Rex in the car: What is your daddy doing here? He must've forgotten that I told him I was picking you up.

Little Rex: Since when did Husbands start doing what mommy's tell them.

Me: 'Cuz Woman is Boss

Little Rex: Yeah right!

Dad's response upon hearing about this conversation: Son, today you have made me very proud!

I'm not sure who to put in the dog house.

Scrumdillicious!

2008-11-21T19:56:00.000-05:00

I did it!

Made my first loaves of bread two nights ago using starter and it turned out great! I also used Gold Medal, Better for Bread flour. I think that made all the difference as my bread was AWESOME! I took pics but am too lazy to go hunt for the USB cord but just trust me. It was

AWESOME!

It was a bit on the sweet side, not too sweet, but noticeably sweet but we didn't care 'cuz it was

AWESOME!

I'm now down to five starters in the freezer. I took one out so I can make dinner rolls for Thanksgiving.

Awesome!

Amish Friendship Bread is like crack....I don't want to do it but it keeps pulling me back in!

2008-11-18T19:57:00.000-05:00

Haven't been posting much lately but I have been baking up a storm. I dunno--something about the fall that gets me in the baking mood. Most of what I make end up at work as my family just don't get all crazy about sweets.

The baking bug hit full force when about 20 days ago I was given some Amish Friendship Bread Starter or should I say, Amish Hater Bread, 'cuz honestly it is the ultimate gift that keeps on giving and giving and giving...so much giving that your friends end up pouring it down the sink and your friends start avoiding you when they see you coming with your Ziploc bag of starter and instruction sheet.

I felt guilty about forcing this stuff on folks (Ahhh, thank you....I'm gonna make some tonight...kerplunk-the sound it makes as they throw it in the trash after you leave) so I kept the bulk of it and have been baking ever since.

In these twenty days I have made 2 loaves of banana bread, banana muffins, pumpkin bread and chocolate chocolate chip cake. And now, as I type this, I have a mess of sourdough rising so I can make, for the first time ever, sourdough bread.

I'll let you know how it turns out.

Oh and if you want any starter, holla!

I've got six bags of it in my freezer.

Bad Word Jar

2008-11-08T11:07:00.001-05:00

Last night I had to institute a bad word jar after Little Rex threw is crayon at the coloring book and exclaimed, "Damn white!"

Little Rex and I just better go ahead and get a roll of quarters from the bank right now Cuz' I can swear like a sailor and apparently Little Rex is riding that same ship....

Conversations with Little Rex--#4131

2008-11-03T20:04:00.000-05:00

Little Rex: I believe in God

Me: You do?

Little: I believe God. You believe in God you go to heaven.

Me: Do you believe Jesus is God's son?

Little Rex: Yes.

Me: Do you believe Jesus died for your sins?

Little Rex: Uh huh!

Me: Do you know what is means that Jesus died for your sins?

Little Rex: You go to heaven! I'm gonna go and fly like an angel. No...I'm gonna fly like a eagle!

I just smiled and started thinking of what a wonderful thing it is to have a kid come to know Christ at such a young age, I can't wait to tell his...(Little Rex interrupts)

Little Rex: What kind of bird has white poop?

Me and Older Brother (together): What?

Little Rex: Is it an eagle? I know it's an eagle. They have a white head. Their head is white and the poop comes down white.

I really don't know how he went from flying like an angel to eagle poop.

A four-year old's mind is a deep, deep mystery.

Ah! So that's the real reason

2008-11-02T15:12:00.000-05:00

I was impressed that Older Brother had taken the initiative to clean his room and closet out while grounded. I didn't ask him. Dad didn't ask him. He did it all on his own for no apparent reason...just wanted to have a clean room.

Or so I thought.

Talking to him amidst the pile of rubble I discovered his true motivation.

Money!

He's looking for stuff he can sell on eBay so he can make $$ to buy video games.

This is definitely a win-win for me. We get a clean kids room AND I don't have pay for video games.

Carry on, my son.

No matter what your motivation.

Did I just see what I thought I saw?

2008-11-01T11:53:00.001-04:00

Coming home late last night from picking up Older Brother and his friend from the Harvest Party After Party we friggin' saw this!

We couldn't believe our eyes so I doubled back and there, on the other side of road, there he (or she) was again!

Just standing there.

What the heck is a coyote doing in Bon Air! Just a few days earlier folks in that part of the county reported seeing a mountain lion.

After turning down one side street and going up another there it was again! This time in front of us...glaring. Suddenly he/she turned and started running, hunched down if on the hunt for something.

WOW! We all talked very fast about seeing the coyote. It was beautiful, yet scary. I mean, don't those things travel in packs?

Recipe Swap

2008-10-29T21:07:00.000-04:00

I never, ever get the 36 or so recipes that I am promised when I do these recipe swaps. My friend Candace decided to forgo the whole forwarding thing and send a recipe to me and to Christine (she was at the top of the list). Then Christine forwarded a recipe to me as well. Yippee! And so now, I pay it forward to you...enjoy because folks, Candace and Christine are the best cooks!

Enchilada Brunch Casserole (from Candace)

1 pound sausage
¼ cup green onions, chopped
½ cup green peppers, chopped
2 cups grated cheddar cheese
8 (8 inch) flour tortillas
6 large eggs
2 cups milk
1 Tablespoon flour
½ teaspoon garlic powder
2 cups grated cheese, any kind (I used the Mexican cheese blend)
½ cup enchilada sauce (not salsa)
chopped tomatoes and green onions for garnish

1. Lightly grease a 9X13 inch casserole dish.
2. Brown sausage, green onion, and green pepper. Drain off excess fat, and let cool. In another small bowl, mix eggs, milk, flour, and garlic powder. Divide cooled meat mixture and a little cheese (dividing 1-2 cups of cheese between the 8 tortillas) in the middle of each tortilla. Roll and place in prepared pan, seam side down.
3. Pour egg mixture over rolls and sprinkle with the remaining two to three cups of cheese. Pour the ½ cup of enchilada sauce over the cheese. Cover the casserole and refrigerate overnight.
4. Remove from refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking. Preheat oven to 350° F. Bake uncovered 40 – 50 minutes or until set. Let stand about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with green onion and chopped tomatoes. Warm and serve with the remaining enchilada sauce.

Richard's Carrots (from Christine)

2 lbs carrots
1/2 C carrot liquid
4T grated onion
1/2T horseradish
1/2 C mayo
1t salt
1/4t pepper
1C breadcrumbs
1/2C melted butter

Boil sliced carrots until crisply done. Drain, reserving 1/2C of the water from the pot. Place in greased 2-quart casserole. In a small bowl mix carrot liquid, onion, etc--everything but the breadcrumbs and butter. Pour over carrots. Top with bread crumbs. Pour butter over. Bake 20 minutes at 375.

Quick Cobbler (Recipe I forwarded on to Sue)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Combine in bowl:
1/2 cup flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspooon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Pour into 9x9" greased baking pan

Add on top:
2 cup fruit--fresh, frozen, or canned (use pie filling for best results)

Bake for 40 minutes

As I get more recipes I'll share them...

Kid-logic

2008-10-21T19:58:00.000-04:00

Me: Time to take a shower

Little Rex: But Daddy said if I take a shower I go to bed

Me: Yeaaahhhhh.

Little Rex: I don't wanna take shower...I'm watching TV--not going to bed.

I hate kid logic.

2008-10-19T17:23:00.001-04:00

With both Hubbies working this weekend, Twin and I decided to take the wee folks apple picking here. Here are the highlights in pics.

Here we are trying to decide whether to go for the Braeburns or the Yorks.

The Twin

Little Rex in the wild

Don't try to hide Older BrotherThe Fam
Granny Smiths Galore
The Twin's sick sense of humour...mine is sicker--I took the pic and posted it (look at the hat)
Our handiwork--Apple Cobbler

Apple Pie

The hunt for something good

2008-10-12T16:21:00.000-04:00

"Where are they!" I heard behind me. I could tell immediately from the sound of her voice, a mix of frustration and desperation, what she was seeking. I had only moments earlier uttered those same frantic words. I turned around to see a woman--nicely dress, blond, perhaps 10 - 15 years older than me, but with eyes that told the story of a woman in great need. As soon as I saw her I started to ask, "You mean..."

"Yes!" She interrupted.

"Down there, to the left, up above." I said gesturing toward the item. And with a quickly muttered "thank you", she was off to find what she had been longing for and what I had found and had safely tucked away. . .

TRADER JOE'S TRIPLE GINGER SNAPS!!!!

Yeah! They're that good.

Little Rexism of the Day

2008-10-11T09:01:00.000-04:00

Me: "Grab your stuff out the car and lets go."

Little Rex: "Mom! I only have two hands. I'm not an octopus!"

And so it begins. . .

No, I haven't fallen off the face of the earth. . .

2008-10-10T19:11:00.000-04:00

. . .it's just that Facebook is consuming waaaaay too much of time. Way. To. Much!!!!

So what has been going on with me and the crazies for the past few weeks? Here are a few, quick highlights:

Family (me and my younglings; my sisters and their kids, one sis' hubby, one mother, one mother-in-law) weekend at the RIVAH! We laughed, fished, went crabbing and generally just chilling out.
Finally speaking to "He Who Plucks My Last Nerve" at work.
Learning not to worry about things not in my circle of influence
Dealing with food/stress issues
Juggling different family schedules
Trying to get Little Rex to take it down a thousand--this kid is adorable, yet...well...let's just say that Dr. Dobson has met a strong willed child like this....
Oldest scored his first goal in soccer
Lost 2.8 lbs
Gained .4 lbs
Two sleep studies in two weeks.
All in all--just life. It happens.

Pad Thai

2008-09-24T13:36:00.000-04:00

Can someone puh-leeze tell me what Pad Thai is suppose to taste like?

I've had it three times (okay four if you count the "instant" stuff I got at the store) and each time it tastes different.

The first time I had it was at a place in D.C. called Thai Chef. It was way too sweet and no heat.

The second place I had it was at the Thai Diner & Cafe here in Richmond. It was awesome, though the restaurant looked a bit dated and for some reason very dark at 1:00 in the afternoon. But it was de-lish. Right amount of heat and very flavorful.

Location three, Chadar Thai. I just finished and while it had heat, it had little to no flavor..excpet that of oiliness. I had also decided to try their won-ton soup and a fried spring roll. The spring roll had not flavor and the won-ton soup was just...weird so I tossed it without finishing. I should've been suspicious becuase it was peak lunch time and the place was EMPTY excpet for one sole diner. I didn't hate it completely but it was definitely missing something.

In the past I have set out to find the perfect Bacon Cheeseburger (Soble's-now defunct), the perfect baklava (homemade by an old, old friends Egytian mother). Now, I must set out to find the perfect Pad Thai. Thai Dinner is in first place right now, but I'm open to any suggestions folks out there might have.

And if I have to make the sacrifice, and journey to Happy Boondocks, to taste some homemade Pad Thai...it is the price of gas I'm willing to pay.

Cerel-A-Rama Answers

2008-09-24T13:34:00.000-04:00

Hubby--Pumpkin See Flax Granoloa
Oldest--Reese's
CrazyBaby--Cheerios
Moi--Instant Oatmeal

Why Hubby is lovin' the pumpkin flax seed stuff is beyond me!

Cereal-A-Rama

2008-09-21T16:46:00.001-04:00

Had to go to Kroger last night to get cereal. Everyone in the family wanted a different type and I must have been a super mood because I bought four types of cereal. See if you can guess who requested what:

The Family:
Hubby
CrazyMad Mommy (that would be me)
Embarrased by Younger Brother Older Brother (aka, the Oldest)
Little Rex (aka CrazyBaby--now toddler).

The Cereal:
Cheerios
Reeses' Puffs
Organic Pumpkin Flax Plus Granola
Instant Oatmeal

Put your guesses in the comment section. No prize given. Just the pure satisfaction of knowing you guessed right.

Happy Independence Day!

2008-08-31T14:20:00.000-04:00

Today is Trinidad's Independence Day. Since half my family was born there (Hubby and the Oldest), I thought I'd share with you some of my favorit Trini-sayings.

Buss a lime -- going to hangout with friends as in We goh buss a lime to d'beach.

Lagniappe -- a little extra, a bonus (the last child born many years after his/her siblings (that would be Little Rex).

Macco -- A person who minds other people's business for the purpose of gossip. e.g. "Wha yuh macoing so for?"

Pot hound / pot hong -- a mixed dog; sometimes used as an insult e.g. yuh lazy pothound!

Sweet drink -- term used for soft drink, soda, pop

Yuh faddah is a glassmaker -- You are blocking my view.

Swell up yuh face -- To look angry, to pout

If you can't stand the heat. . .

2008-08-30T09:58:00.000-04:00

Embarrased by Younger Brother Older Brother got his first yellow card EVER in the school opener. He was pissed and Hubby was too.

It seems my son was trying to make a slide tackle the the player from the other team went down....

The player is a girl.

Not that being a girl playing soccer is a bad thing, but I believe if it had been a boy, that yellow card woudn't have happened.

Also, why is it that girls can play on boys soccer teams but boys can't play on girls soccer teams. What's up with that?

AND I've noticed that when girls are on the boys teams, everyone seems to think they are so fragile and fouls and yellow cards start flying even if a boy looks at them cross-eyed.

Just my soccer mom morning rant

Out of Context

2008-08-29T14:05:00.000-04:00

Overheard on the elevator:

"I can't believe I ate all 12-inches."

"Wow, that's a lot"

"Usually I'm satisfied with 6 inches but I was really hungry for it so I went for the 12."

I really hope they were talking about Subway.

Oh Where is My Hairbrush?

2008-08-29T14:02:00.000-04:00

No pics of my hair.

Why?

Because I chose to visit The Dominicans on a rainy day, so Karina, my Dominican, wrapped my hair and secured it with tons of bobby-pins.

The next day was raining so when I took out all the pins I had a nice,

flat

hairdo.

Nothing sexy about it at all.

So I'm planning my next trip the Dominicans in a couple of weeks.

Hopefully on a sunny, sunny day.

The Dominicans

2008-08-27T19:58:00.000-04:00

When I first heard of the Dominican's yesterday I thought, "What the hell is this...some kind of underground, word of mouth thing."

Turns out there is a Dominican style to doing black hair. Who knew? Apparently most of the folks in the black community, except me. And of course it is all traced back to (ready Christine) NEW YORK!

I could write on and on and on about it but the best thing to do is go here and here.

I went to Martha's today to try it out. If you are expecting to be pampered forget about it. It is strictly volume baby so they slap it on, lather it up, dry it out and boom...straight, soft, bouncy hair. I won't know if mine is going to be bouncy or behaving as Karina, my stylist wrapped mine up because of the rain. So I'll let you all know tomorrow...heck I may even post a pic of the do. So, I'll do a Christine tonight and wrap my head with my do-rag and see the results of the Dominicans in the A.M.

Stay tuned.

I'm an Obama supporter. . .

2008-08-25T18:22:00.000-04:00

At least that is what the guy who called to invite me to a viewing party at some Mc-person house to watch Obama's speech on Thursday.

At first I was like, oh wow, I've never gotten invited to any thing like this before, because well, I've never taken the time to e-mail a candidate my ideas on how he/she should address a problem. Apparently, this makes me a supporter and gets me added to their database of supporters. I had also started getting requests for me too actually do stuff, like volunteer and make calls on their behalf.

Whooooaaa there pardner! Don't get crazy. A suggestion does not a supporter make, so I nipped that in the bud real quick.

Anyhoo, back to the call. I started to say yes, so I could be an undercover conservative and get some great blogging material but Hubby has class so I said no. After failing to convince me to change my mind, the caller then asked, because I mentioned kids having school the next day, "Well, since the kids are back in school would I have time during the day to volunteer."

They are quite persistent.

I said no. But thanks for the invite.

Show me the money...NOW!

2008-08-13T07:14:00.000-04:00

Now that things seem to be calmed down a bit a work after our review by the Feds (okay things have calmed down a WHOLE lot) I keep checking their website two, three or more times a day looking for any announcements on the three grants we submitted. I wanna know, and I wanna know NOW! I am not a patient person and I've been waiting to hear since February for one grant and March/April for the other two.

It is encouraging that we heard from Grants Administration with some questions they had about the application--right? I mean, if we didn't get it wouldn't they have just sent a "Sorry, your application sucked so no money for you" letter.

Christine and I are Tooooo Much Alike--Which is a pretty cool thing!

2008-07-19T18:12:00.000-04:00

You Are Barbeque Sauce

You are a social person. You enjoy cooking for other people.
You are both skillful and competitive. You enjoy mastering hard tasks.
You appreciate complexity more than simplicity.

Your taste in food tends to lean toward interesting flavors.
You appreciate exotic spice combinations. You tend to like cutting edge, fusion cuisine.
You get along with all personalities from a distance. Except salsa personalities, who always seem to annoy you.

Orbit! Quick!

2008-07-19T17:51:00.000-04:00

Little Rex and his potty mouth just got himself in a whole heap of trouble at pre-school.

Twin and I were on our way to see our Aunt in the hospital when I got the call from the pre-school. Twin could only here one side of the conversation which was enough to get her laughing.

Me (into the phone): He said what?!

Twin (laughing hysterically): I gotta call mom on this one! Ahhh--busy!

Me: Put him on the phone. Little Rex, where did you hear that word...

Twin: Don't, ,don't ask that....he'll say...From my mommy....don't, don't, dont.

Fortunately, he said he didn't know. Of course he could've heard that word from any number of sources, including Twin and/or her hubby.

At least that's the story I'm sticking with...

Column a NO-GO

2008-06-28T07:22:00.000-04:00

I wrote my first and last column for the newsletter. There is already a column of a similar nature. Instead, I'm going to do features on different folks and the work that they do, whether outside the home or at home...I'm actually a bit relieved. I like doing features and telling stories.

A monthly column actually kinda scared me a bit.

What is it with my family and Cheez-Its?

2008-06-27T17:57:00.001-04:00

Hubby came home with a box of White Cheddar Cheez-Its. He had gone out to pick up Little Rex so I took the opportunity to help myself to some. Hubby calls and tells me to stay away from them. Too late I say.

Later, Little Rex comes home and wants a snack. Yep, he starts eating them and tries to sneak the entire box out of the kitchen. I stop him, put box back on table...Yes! More for me.

Older Brother just came in..."Cheez-its, Yeah!" and starts to take the entire box.

Now we all have that annoying remnant of Cheez-its in our teeth but that's okay.

I'm going to have to make a Chees-its run later today 'cuz they are just that good.

Ungrateful!

2008-06-26T17:46:00.000-04:00

While out running errands trying to get the oldest ready for camp, I realized I had picked up a few extra stuff for everyone except Little Rex. So, I got him an Ugly Doll.

When we all got home I told Little Rex to close his eyes and we had a surprise for him. He was oh so excited!

Oldest Brother bought in the doll and gave it to Little Rex.

The look on his face was. . .

Disgust!

He dropped the doll, turned to me and said, "I wanted a spinning top." He then kicked the doll across the room (apparently this is a signature move in my family as I, on the night before my wedding was found kicking my bouquet down the hallway of the church because the florist screwed up--but that is a different post).

He then refused to go to the naughty place. He only did so after I gave him his choice of hand on backside or naughty place.

So now he sits, glaring at me, mad as a hornet. Occasionally he tries to get up and leave the room or grab the doll he kicked across it...but I'm not having that all.

How in the world did I raise such ungrateful children?

I love my job! There! I said it out loud!

2008-06-23T11:51:00.000-04:00

Shhhh, come close. I have a secret that I’m just dying to tell. Ready?

I love my job.

Yep, that’s it. I love my job. That wasn’t always the case. I wasted a good number of years being most miserable and making my family miserable because I wanted to be a stay at home mom and that just wasn’t where God had or has us right now. I would be quite churned up with what everyone’s expectations of me was that I put that all that confusion and frustration on to my job. It wasn’t my job that was making me miserable. It was me making me miserable because it seemed to me that if one HAD to work outside of the home, then you shouldn’t like it. You should be torn up about it and hate your job.

I was a stay-at-home mom years and years ago and guess what, I was miserable. Again, trying to live up to other’s expectations of me. I dreaded going to church on Sunday’s because of THE questions. I got from those working outside the home. “Sooo, what do you do all day.” Boy, there is just no winning.

I decided that I could stay in my miserable state and the falseness of being conflicted or, accept where God has me for this season and do the best job and enjoy it and do it for His Glory, whether working outside the home or being at stay-at-home mom (or dad).

I'm accepting where He has me and loving it!

Who says you can't get a free lunch in this town?

2008-06-23T11:46:00.000-04:00

On Saturday I loaded up the kids and headed off to our favorite big box, member only store (BBMOS) With 2% rebate check in hand, we headed in to buy massive amounts of toilet paper, paper towels and get lunch. I wasn’t quite sure what we were having for lunch. Maybe it would brownies and ice cream or perhaps salmon and baguettes. It’s always a surprise because you never know what they are sampling that day.

On this trip, we had pasta in pesto sauce, sorbet, and watermelon. Off course, it seemed that everyone in Chesterfield had the same idea on scoring a free lunch at the BBMOS. I really didn’t feel like wrestling with one of the little gray hairs over the last bits of a sample (I could’ve taken her) and decided to head on home.

Later that day, my oldest sister came over. I was showing off my impulsive purchase of Island Way Sorbet (served in real fruit shells) and talking up the free sample lunch. “My BBMOS doesn’t do samples.”

How sad.

Help Me Name My Column

2008-06-18T21:48:00.000-04:00

Had a meeting tonite at church re: our new newsletter. Awww, suky, suky now...we going web-based baby! I'm psyched.

One of things I'm going to do is write a column. I don't have a name for it and that's where you come in. I need ideas on what to call it. I want the column to be bit humorous, a bit thought provoking. I want to look at things that matter to me, to others, to families, to singles. I want it to be about life, as I know it.

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Hmmm. Never mind. I think I found the name of my column. Life as I know it.

Thanks for your help!

2008-05-28T14:04:00.000-04:00

Has it really been almost 2 weeks since I last posted anything! Geesh, I hate when work interferes with by personal life.

Following is a somewhat brief replay of what has been keeping me from blogging:

Attending my organization's Annual Conference and coordinating exhibitors and sponsors--FUN!
Getting into it with another co-worker during the conference. Me ending it by telling him I would deal with him when we got back to the office.
Next day back at office notice that said co-worker had his mommy, oops, I mean wife call in sick for him. Hmmmmm. Coincidence?
Writing two grants to HRSA both with less than 30 days notice. Look, I know some folks do that all the time, heck a number of them only have two weeks to write a grant. Well I like a little bit more notice please, especially when 1/2 the month is spent "waiting" for the boss to feed you info...Ugh!
Managed to get both grants done and submitted ahead of deadline--Brownie points for me with the Boss--He thinks I rock!
Juggling end of the year schedules for the kids; Little Rex's Art Show and Older Brother's end of school year picnic (seriously--when do these things end).
The most awesome Memorial Day Weekend ever! (look for pics later)
Making up with my BFF at the office after our big fight in February. Not only are we back to the knowing glances during staff meetings, gossiping, and just having fun again, we are also starting to dress a like--scary!
Planning birthday party for mom's 70th birthday next February with my siblings.
Writing a note to myself: Must not help plan mom's 80th--Too much drama, nose wrinkling, disagreements...

I could write more but I guess you get the picture why I haven't been around much.

Just Because I Do

2008-05-17T07:49:00.001-04:00

A Mother's Day Meme by Little Rex:

My Mom is Special

Her Name is: Andrea

But I just call her: Mama

I think my mommy is: Pretty

Her favorite food is: Pizza

Her favorite color is: Red

Her favorite flower is: Daisy

The things I like to do the most with her are: Running together

I love my mommy because: Just because I do

More News from the Land of My Hubby

2008-05-05T14:10:00.000-04:00

This is what I don't miss about Trinidad. See e-mail below my sister-in-law in response to mine asking about the package we sent:

Thanks Andrea,
I took some leave to study for exams so I was away from the computer for 10 days. Also, we have no land line because a truck pull the line and the pole out of place so of course TSTT is taking their time to fix it. Also, TTPOST is on strike demanding an increase in wages and better working conditions, so I have no idea when we will be getting the stuff, but it won't spoil so no sweat. Thanks Andrea.
Luv U All
C

Pint-size view of Heaven

2008-05-04T13:09:00.000-04:00

On the way to church this morning, Hubby told me about a conversation he had with Little Rex last night. It went something like this...

Little Rex: I want to die.

Hubby: Uh, why do you want to die.

Little Rex: I want to go to heaven and sleep in my room.

Hubby: In your room?

Little Rex: God has room for me and I'll play with lots of toys, eat and have snack.

Hubby: Uhhhhh

Little Rex: Do you want to die?

Hubby: Well, I want to go to heaven but I'm not ready to die yet.

Little Rex: Why? Don't you love Jesus!

Hmmmmm. Maybe I should start calling him Little Billy Graham.

All by myself

2008-05-02T15:20:00.000-04:00

I'm in the office now all by my lonesome. Everyone's gone but me. What the hell am I still doing here?!

Here's what:

Proofreading article for church newsletter
balancing checkbook
Facebook
Reading TV Guide TV Show blogs
Checking e-mails
Deleting Spam
Staring at four giant Panera bagels
Wondering what I want to do this weekend
Blogging

Wiiiiiiiiiii!

2008-04-29T15:30:00.000-04:00

My Oldest really, really, really wants a Wii.

He doesn't have one because well, mom and dad were a little slow in getting to the big box and little box stores to get one last year. Who knew you had to get it 8 months before Christmas. Hubby and I halfway looked for it--as if one would magically appear in our carts as we cruised the aisles at Target. No such luck.

We also balked at playing into and paying for more expensive Wii bundle that we simply could not afford--well, let me take that back--we could afford it but it just seems like an awful lot of moolah to shell out--we cheap that way. I about choked when a colleague told me how much she paid for her bundle--yikes!!!--Good gravy lady--I could pay two months of my child's tuition for school.

I thought the Oldest was content without his Wii. Yeah, right! Just yesterday, the child who has no interest in the newspaper was going through the sales circulars from Sunday's paper and tearing out pictures of the console. He tried to hand me a few them...

"Honey, I know what a Wii is and I know where to find them. You do not have Wii because we don't know what they look like."

Puzzled and sad look on his face....(Ahhhh, he is learning well from Little Rex the power of the face).

He's going to get his Wii. When he least expects it.

And whenever I can find one in stock.

Mommy Approved Clean

2008-04-18T18:56:00.000-04:00

"Is that back room clean!"

"Looks clean to me."

"The question is, will it look clean to me?!"

Sounds of Older Brother cleaning the room, again.

This is not going to end well

2008-04-14T21:01:00.000-04:00

Yesterday after church the family headed over to Hubby's second favorite place, Harbor Freight. He was looking to buy me what every girl longs for. . .a dust mop. While there, Oldest Brother decided that he really must have the remote control airplane that he has been coveting for three years now.

We caved in and bought. Little Rex decided he too must have a toy and so what else will a dad that dad loves tool buy a three year old. That's right...a junior toolkit with little size kid tools, hardhat, tool belt, chalk line (yeah, that'll go great on my new floors) and a hammer--a real hammer. . .but I'm getting off track because the problem wasn't the hammer...yet. The problem was with the airplane.

Older Brother, who has not learned patience, removed all the AA batteries he could from various other toys, put together his plane and last night, in the dark decided to "test" it out. Never mind that I and Hubby kept telling him the plane shouldn't be flown in the back yard because of the trees. NO. He must fly his plane now!

After a few mis-steps with the plane (which could've been solved if he bothered to read the directions). Dad comes out the help. It seems in order to launch this baby you need to have someone hold the plane while Older Brother worked the control.

I stood safely in the kitchen looking out the window worried that they were going to fly the plane into our neighbors home. Ha! I shouldn't have feared because Hubby turned around and pointed the plane toward our house.

Did you all know I have the gift of prophecy? I bet you do too.

Anyhoo--the propellers start spinning, Hubby releases the plane and--

CRASH! Right into the house.

We lost a propeller and both wings broke.

Fortunately, today Older Brother discovered duct tape.

The darn thing still isn't flying right and Hubby is going to take another trip to Harbor Freight.

To buy more wings.

Wanting what you don't have...the family version

2008-04-12T20:49:00.001-04:00

Just got back in from a family dinner at an Italian restaurant where Little Rex, while not exactly in wild mode was still just a little too loud, especially in announcing to the entire restaurant "I have to poo-poo". Older brother annoyingly kept getting after Little Rex. Finally, I had had enough.

"Son, stop being embarrassed by your little brother! You asked for him, now you got him".

Massanetta Springs

2008-04-08T21:06:00.001-04:00

It's been well over 20 years since I've been to Massanetta Springs. I and a group of fellow Christians involved with Navigators at Maryland would go there periodically for conferences. It was always a fun road trip; getting to hang out with your friends and grow in your faith.

Portion of the "New" Lodge. The balcony is off my room. I scored a suite-yeah me.

View of Richardson Hall and Hotel through trees

A couple of the many Willows that line the water's edge.

On the way back up to the New Lodge

The famous Massanetta Springs (under cover). Step on this and you'll sink

View from the Hotel

Floors, the Saga continues

2008-04-08T20:53:00.000-04:00

So Christine hired someone to do her floors and they were done in FOUR hours. Hubby did them himself...starting on Saturday morning.

He's still at it.

He is 99.94% finshed. He's having a tough time with a small bit right around the doors. Here are a few pics of the project. Once he is 100% done I'll post another pic.

Gimme 5--My first time being tagged!

2008-04-06T06:27:00.000-04:00

The rules are as follows:1. Each player answers the questions about themselves: five items per answer!2. At the end of the post, the player then tags five people and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves a comment letting them know they've been tagged and to ask them to play along and to read your blog.

10 Years Ago:
I had only one kid
Drove a Suzuki Esteem
Lived in an apartment
Only had one car
Weighed a whole lot less

Today's To-Do List:
Breakfast
Church
Drive to Harrisonburg
Board Retreat
Call Hubby to remind him to feed children while I'm away (he forgets things like that)

Snacks I Enjoy:
Popcorn
Weight Watchers Peanut Bliss (I'm a WW dropout but those things are de-lish!)
Kettle Cooked potato chips
M&Ms
Soy Crisps (may new fave)

If I Were a Billionaire, I Would:
Hire a personal chef
Buy a bigger house
Start a foundation
Buy a small island nation and declare myself Queen

My Bad Habits:

Facebook
Eating when not hungry
Gossip
People pleaser
Nail biting

Places I've Lived:
Richmond
College Park
Amherst
Port of Spain, Trinidad
Chesterfield

Jobs I've Had:
Litter gitter at King's Dominion
Office Assistant at UMD
Trainer, in Trinidad
Personal Assistant
Grant Writer

I tag Jennifer & Jenna. Only two folks 'cuz I only know three people that blog and Christine sent this to me.

Hubby with a Hammer

2008-04-05T07:50:00.000-04:00

Came home from work yesterday to find my house a wreck, specifically--the kitchen and living room. Things had been moved from the kitchen to the living room to make room NEW FLOORS!

I'm excited about getting our new laminate floors. Can't wait to have the look of faux wood in the kitchen and down the hall, 'cuz once you start with floors, well of course the cabinets have to be updated and with all that updating you need to get new kitchen furniture (I am so over the country look).

What I'm not excited about is having the the house a wreck until the floors are done. I just walk around the mess chanting to myself, "I'm gonna have beautiful floors".

Stay tune for pics of the progress.

You do the math

2008-04-04T20:01:00.001-04:00

Little Rex + coloring with markers + on the carpet =

TROUBLE!!!

Just Life

2008-04-04T14:46:00.000-04:00

Nothing much going on here. Just the daily grind of work, hauling kids around, refereeing children fighting, tackling the never ending pile of laundry--pretty much life as usual.

Can't help luvin' that man o' mine!

2008-03-30T14:50:00.000-04:00

Hubby has gone ga-ga over Cheez-Its and we have four, count'em FOUR boxes of them (I thought we had only three boxes, but discovered a fourth behind the Rice Krispies after I took the pic)

So why, when he went searching for snacks last night, did I catch him eating. . .

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Croutons?

Fun with the Family -- Woodland Vineyard

2008-03-29T17:35:00.000-04:00

Went to Woodland Vineyard today for their Opening Day Celebration. It's a small family winery located not even 30 minutes from my house. I went with my sisters and my mother. Here are just a few pics.

In the tasting room (Rita & Mom, who kept quoting Paul about wine being good for the stomach)

Here's teetotaller Allison:

l to r: Rita, Annie (mom), Adriene & Allison

Me (accidental, was trying to turn off camera)

We had a great time The wine was wonderful and the owners and staff were super nice and very knowledgeable and we left with 9 bottles of wine.

All in all a great afternoon.

Yippee! I get to clean up the kitchen!

2008-03-28T21:49:00.000-04:00

I have to clean up the kitchen.

But I don't want to. I hate cleaning up the kitchen.

But I hate dirty dishes in the sink more than cleaning up the kitchen.

I have a dishwasher. But I have to put the dirty dishes in the dishwasher.

I heard a motivational speaker once say you should change your "have to" to "get to". Its suppose to make it sound so much more positive.

I get to clean up the kitchen.

Nope...cleaning still sucks.

Curses, Resolutions and Battles...

2008-03-27T10:49:00.000-04:00

My children are incredibly stubborn creatures and can have, when really, really pushed outbursts of anger that make you want to cringe. My mom would say they come by all this quite naturally or maybe the term she used in the past would be more accurate--they are cursed.

Cursed to be the grandchildren of my dad and the great-grandchildren of her father, nicknamed, "The Gun" (because you never knew when he was going to go off). Of course, they are also my flesh and bone and have inherited my "bottle it up until it explodes" nature.

I'm really trying to work hard on not bottling up my feelings, however my New Year's resolution to "be more bitchy" hasn't been working out too well and doesn't set a good example for the kiddies and is definitely not the stuff a former pastor wife and now elder's wife is made of, sooooo I'm changing my resolution to "pick my battles". Hopefully leading by example will rub of on my little cherubs. . .

If that fails, I'm calling in the one person who strikes fear in their tiny little hearts. . .

Hubby!

Wanting what you don't have because you don't have it

2008-03-26T08:26:00.001-04:00

My father-in-law called last week.

From Trinidad.

On his cell phone!

"My! We're feeling mighty rich today, " I said as I answered the phone. "No, not rich. Just want to talk to everybody," he responded.

Well, he talked to three out of four of us before his cell phone died. Hubby, after hanging up told me about his father's request.

"You won't believe what he wants us to send them?"

"What?"

"Iceberg lettuce seeds."

"What's with your family and iceberg lettuce."

You see, when we lived in Trinidad, Hubby's family, as well as the rest of Trinidad, we found out, think anything different is better. And honestly, it's not. Trinidad has the most wonderful fruits and veggies AND red leaf and green leaf lettuce abounds. Iceberg lettuce is imported...and expensive. So are grapes and apples. Heck, I even went into a "gourmet store" in a trendy party of the Port of Spain and the shelves were filled with American junk food--including Frosted Flakes.

My sister-in-law on more than one occasion has longingly wished to taste iceberg lettuce. "You ain't missing anything," I told her. But hey, it's different so they must have it.

I'm putting the seeds in the mail today.