MeeshLinn

So 9 months goes by...

2009-09-26T22:38:00.011-05:00

And now I feel the urge to write again. Most of you know what I've been up to but for those that are still waiting here goes.

Our special packaged arrived last spring. A little boy weighing in at 7lbs 6oz (the exact same as his sister). We chose Brian for his name and he is doing great. I decided that May 1st was my last day of work and was going to take some well needed "me time" before I became a mom of two. I was able to get a good week or so of nesting in and was drug back into the office by some pretentious old hag that insisted on speaking to me (that's a different post). So Mother's Day rolled around and I was having hard core false labor and thought for sure baby was coming. Fast forward 2 days and the contractions started right as "24" was starting. Since I wanted to get the show in, I started timing and praying they would get us through the show. As soon as the show ended, I looked at Chris and said "They're coming every 4 minutes and time to make some phone calls".

After that everything went pretty textbook. I was having a VBAC so the hospital and my doctor were not going to let me have a marathon labor like I did with Katie. After 15 hours 45 minutes I pushed my son into this world and it was the most amazing experience of my life. I would do it 18 more times just to relive that moment. But mainly so I could beat out the Duggars in having the most children.

Now I have two healthy kids and really that's all we've been up to. No vacations or big events. I think giving birth trumps all of that. I have decided that I'm going to take better care of myself and that me and my family come first. I've always taken care of my family and felt this way, but for the first time I'm actually including myself.

I can't belive fall is here and this year is going by so quickly. I hope to keep this up, but no promises. Oh and GO CARDS!!!

Relief

2009-01-14T10:10:00.003-06:00

Last night I had my ultrasound. Needless to say, I'm quite relieved. The baby is great and progressing right on schedule. We did not find out what we are having. That's right! We are crazy and do not know the gender of our little one. But that's okay with us. I like surprises. The only down side is picking a name. It's hard enough choosing one, but to have to have two nailed down is tough.

We didn't find out what Katie was until she was born. For some reason we had her name picked and ready to go without any problems. I should have known it was a girl based on this alone. But I digress. Chris and I were still debating the boy name as we drove to the hospital. I remember thinking while I was on the OR table "Please let it be a girl because we don't have a boy name". I realize that it's OK to go a day or two without a name, but I'm anal like that. We have to have a name!

So this parenting decision is one that I'm dreading. Mainly, because I don't have my heart set on something by now. Last time I knew it had to be a family name and I don't think Chris was going to win that battle. Now, I just want something that will be appropriate as a child and as an adult. Oh and it can't go with "Now appearing on the main stage...".

I know we'll come up with one, it's just a daunting task. Like re-organizing the closets. It doesn't take that long, but it just seems overwhelming. So we're open to suggestions?

2008 Recap

2008-12-31T14:17:00.003-06:00

I know it's been a very long time and I was reminded over the weekend to get back to writing. I've been home with Katie since Halloween and honestly thought I would have more time to blog. Wrong! Solely taking care of a toddler is a full time job. And being pregnant at the same time really wears a girl out. So this left me with zero time to blog. But now that I'm going back to work I should have a few minutes of down time starting Monday.

I thought I would try to recap 2008 the best that I could. My baby brain is hindering my memories of five minutes ago, so this should be interesting. So here's my list of good and bad times of the year:

I FINALLY graduated from college. And not just an associates degree. A full fledged bachelor of accounting degree. (I realize this happened Dec. '07) but for the first January I could remember I didn't have to register for classes! And I started blogging.

1ooth Best Ever St. Pats in Rolla,MO. This was the first time I had been to Rolla and the first weekend away from Katie. Chris and I had a great time even though it truly was not the Best St. Pat's ever. Rumor has it that enough alum bitched and they are moving the Gonzo games back outside. 9 more years...

Katie turned 1! Chris and I survived year 1 of parenting and so far year 2 hasn't been too bad. We have a healthy and beautiful little girl that amazes us everyday. I still can't believe I'm a Mom. We celebrated the milestone by having an Alice in Wonderland themed party with 60 of our closest family and friends (We have big families).

Took our first family vacation to Gulf Shores, AL in early May. We went with 4 other families and had an amazing time. Except that Katie had hand,foot and mouth virus. Luckily, we traveled with a pediatrician. Thanks Dr. Josh!

My brother got married in June in Florida. Which meant a return trip to the Gulf and Katie was in her first wedding.

Then I turned 30! We celebrated with a party at home and Chris mowed a 30 into our lawn. Now that's true love!

Sadly, we welcomed Evelyn Louise into this world on July 3, 2008 and then 29 days later said goodbye. Evelyn had Trisomy 18 and changed all of us by showing us how fragile and special life really is. She will never be forgotten.

Chris and I celebrated 3 blissful years of marriage by going out to dinner and getting a massage.

Then we rewarded our 3 years of marriage by getting pregnant. Number two will be here next spring.

Katie tackled her 2nd Halloween as a dinosaur and enjoyed trick or treating.

Then she moved on to Thanksgiving and Christmas like a pro. She received way too many presents and ate too much turkey, but she loved it!

And just yesterday, and today, I felt actual kicks from the Baby. I've felt the flutters and butterflies, but nothing like an actual kick. We're half way there and he/she will be here before we know it. And no we are not finding out!

That seems to be the highlights of the year. We have been fortunate to have health and prosperity in 2008 and pray that 2009 finds everyone healthy and happy.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Happy Election Day!

2008-11-04T10:26:00.002-06:00

GO VOTE!!

It's your only job today. That and the one you are actually getting paid to do. Your employer must give you 3 hours to go vote. So don't take crap from your boss about being able to vote.

For some reason this morning it felt kinda like Christmas morning. So I was up early (it may have something to do with me peeing every 2 hours..thank you baby), but I was actually excited to vote. I don't think I've ever been this excited about democracy. My mom came over this morning with Bread Co. and stayed with Katie while I went. Chris waited for an hour this morning and I waited about 2 minutes. In and out. It was quick and painless. Now it's time to sit back and watch the election results roll in. I'm hoping it's not a late night.

If you don't have anything else to do today, PLEASE make it a priority to go vote. Even if you don't know, go vote anyway. JUST VOTE!!!

My apologies

2008-10-24T12:00:00.002-05:00

Sorry it's been so long. I've had a lot on my mind lately and unfortunately, this has not been apart of it. For the last 10 weeks I've had zero motivation to do anything more than shower and feed the child. Even this has been difficult at times. Don't worry I'm not sick, depressed or just down right lazy. Though, I'm sure Chris has thought this a few times. In fact, I'm with child. That's right folks....I'm pregnant.

I'm hoping that within the next few weeks the lack of energy, nausea and fatigue will go away. This time with Katie I was feeling like my old self other than already gaining a few pounds and the clothes tightening. This time I've gained 2 pounds and the clothes have not fit so well for a while. I'm too lazy to go hunt for my maternity clothes in the endless sea of Rubbermaid filling our basement. Maybe I'll do that this weekend.

Today is my last day of work for awhile. Our sitter is giving birth next week so I'm staying home with Katie until the end of the year. I'm pretty excited to spend some time with her, but realize this is not the best time of year to be couped up in the house. I'm not really sure what we're going to do, but I'm sure I'll come up with something. If not then Chris will.

Well, my nausea is back and I'm running out of energy to keep typing. I pray this goes away in the next few weeks. I was told the second child is more trouble than the first. So far this is the truth.

Happy Monday!

2008-09-15T14:35:00.004-05:00

Weekend wrap up and intro to the week...

1. Played Bunco Friday with the new neighbor. Had fun, met lots of new and friendly folks and realized that Bunco is another name for Girls Night. Then, like most in St. Louis, panicked and filled up with gas on the way home. Yeah, gas went up like 5 cents in my neck of the woods.

2. Saturday was spent with cinnamon rolls, apple picking and hibachi! Chris spent the morning with us instead of his office. He needed a break from working weekends every Saturday for like eternity. As he mowed the grass, Katie kept asking for daddy and we then made cinnamon rolls.

Afterwards, we headed to Eckert's for a birthday party and apple picking. Despite the heat and humidity, we had a great time. Katie got to feed goats, try to pet baby deer, played on old tractors and I prayed that none of the animals would chew her tiny little fingers off. Luckily the animals were good. My friend was able to get Schnucks to make an apple cake, in the shape of an actual apple. Pretty cool!

3.Saturday evening I went to dinner with the S'n'S girls to celebrate my sister's birthday. We went to Ariake out here in St. Peters and it was yummy as always. I've had the same hibachi chef the last few times and he was still hilarious. Now that I know most of his jokes I can toy with him. Good times!

4. Sunday was spent relaxing. We visited friends who recently finished a basement and went on a mission trip. It was nice to see them, however, I was feeling like crap and not into being social. Katie was tired and cranky as well. So we headed home to nap and Chris went grocery shopping. God bless him!

5. My BFF, Stephanie and her husband, Shawn came over for a bit. Of course they brought their 3 month old Ryan with them. He's so stinkin' cute and Katie just loves him. Oh she's going to be a great big sister some day. One day, many moons from now, she will have a sibling.

And now on to Monday...

6. I feel crap-tastic. Translation, it's cold and icky outside and that's how I feel. My ears are clogged, my throat hurts and the nose is beginning to run. In a day or two I should have a full on cold. When the weather changes this much, my system gets all out of whack.

And thanks to Hurricane Ike, we have a leaky roof and I'm listening to way too many complaints on water in people's basements. Remember, I'm an insurance agent so bad weather = lots o' work on Monday. It hasn't been too bad and I have yet to hear of any one's roofs being blown off, just water.

FYI...if water accumulates in the basement and it's NOT from a sewer backing up, but just from water coming in because of TOO MUCH RAIN, then it's considered a FLOOD! Therefore, if it's deemed a flood, one must have flood insurance and chances are it's not MSD's fault. Sh@# happens people! And St. Louis is not designed to handle hurricane like rain.

**Disclaimer: the last part was a brief description and should not be considered actual guidance of coverage to a specific policy. I'm always happy to answer questions, but one should consult their own policy for specifics to their own situation. Therefore, you should hold me liable.

Tonight I shall go home, play with Katie and then pass out. Hopefully, I'll feel better in a few days and the rest of the week will be good. Have a good one!

Blissfully Ignorant- Me venting

2008-09-12T14:14:00.004-05:00

Anyone who has talked to me within the last 18 hours knows what kind of mood I'm in. So to those of you who don't, be lucky. I'm sure what I'm about to post is going to piss someone off, but I just have to get it out. It's cheaper than therapy! I do apologize if none of this makes sense. Leave a comment with your e-mail and I'll explain.

I know people go through life without a clue. They are clueless about how anything really works or happens and these people don't seem to care that their lack of attention is annoying and hurtful. I'm convinced by the time you reach adulthood there are a few things one should know in life, regardless of past experiences or how you were raised. Manners and basic etiquette should be one of them. Learning how to e-mail is another. Knowing how to save, budget and plan is a biggy. For instances asking people to chip in on presents for yourself = RUDE. Yet these people don't know that this is rude. They see this as perfectly acceptable behavior. However, I believe this to be selfishness at it's best.

The other part that gets me about these people is that certain others defend their actions because they simply don't know better. That's how their families taught them to live life. I'm sorry, but that's just an excuse. You can't tell me that in the 20+ years these people have been on this planet they haven't picked up on what's considered socially acceptable, polite and considerate of others. All they know is self-centerdness and an apparent lack of generosity. This is what is wrong with people. The entitlement that they "deserve" anything and everything and that the rest of the world is just handed to them. Whatever happened to working hard, giving back and doing things for yourself?

I suppose us nice girls will finish last. The ones that take responsibility for their actions. The ones who carefully plan things out so not to waste. The ones that realize that people go out of their way to make things happen for them and then appreciate the other's thoughtfullness. We are the ones that must deal with blissful ignorance. Personally, I've had it!

9-11-01...this is my story

2008-09-11T11:09:00.004-05:00

It's been 7 years and I remember this day like it just happened. So here's my story of where I was when my country was attacked.

I was 23 and got up and ready for work just like any other day. At the time I worked for a Farmer's Insurance district manager who had a habit of coming to work no earlier than 11am. So I was there at 9am by myself. On the way to work I was listening to the MJ morning show when he mentioned something about a plane hitting the WTC, but he played it off as a small plane. He continued on as if nothing was wrong.

20 minutes later I was at work and by then the North Tower had been hit. I turned the TV on, in order to have some background noise while I started work. However, I never did an ounce of work that day. The second the TV came on all I saw was a smoldering building. And then it happened...the 2nd plane slammed into the South Tower. I couldn't believe what I was seeing. Shortly then after I heard of the Pentagon being attacked and then the 4th plane crashing near Shanksville, PA. That's when I lost it.

My bumbling idiot of a boss came waltzing in and hadn't heard of anything that had happened. I was sitting in the conference room, balling, not answering the phone and she started in on me as to why I wasn't working. I just looked at her and said "Don't you have a clue as to what's going on?" Obviously, she didn't and she watched for a few minutes and then asked if I could get back to work because things had to get done. Like I said, I didn't do a thing that day or for the days to come except watch TV.

I had never been so scared and uncertain of what was coming next. I remember thinking that these things don't happen in my country. My government would never allow this to happen and that they would always protect us. It was the most helpless I have ever felt. That nothing was safe from pure evil.

So what do I think now, seven years later? So much has changed and now that I'm married and am a mom I worry more now than ever about our safety and our freedom. Both of which come at a price. My sister has a friend, Dave, that is being deployed to Afghanistan very soon. I know that Dave will be defending our safety and our freedom. I pray he doesn't have to give the ultimate sacrifice. So thank you to Dave and to our other soldiers defending our security. Thank you to the first responders that run into burning buildings to save others and to put themselves out there for our safety. Thank you to all that have given their lives in the name of freedom. To these people I will never forget!

God Bless!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY WOO!

2008-08-14T11:59:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday to my dear friend Cheryl!!

She's the last SEMO gal to turn the big 3-0. We are headed to dinner this weekend at Yia Yia's in Chesterfield. Not only is this a big milestone in Cheryl's life, it too is one for her little boy. He's officially in kindergarten!

Cheryl and I go way back. We met freshman year in high school in Miss Deters' Freshman English class (along with Jason Jones, Billy Hlavaty, Mona Elsayed, Rachel Belther and many others that I can't recall instantly thanks to aging). It was the first time I was in a school with more than 200 people. I went to catholic grade school and then to public high school. Cheryl had transferred from the Hazelwood area and would be one of the first people I met at the big, new school.

We had mutual friends throughout high school and enjoyed much of the same things like volleyball, Soul Asylum, punching seats, tee-peeing Jamie's house, hanging out at Mid Rivers McDonald's, many many parties, dances and concerts. Cheryl was a force to be reckoned with on the volleyball court. She had a hit and a serve that would knock you on your (beep!). Yet she would be the first to apologize if her hits would send you to the floor. She was aggressive in her defense and had the bruises to prove it. She bruises easily.

Which brings me to my next Cheryl story. One day while at a friend's softball game Cheryl tripped and bit it while walking on some rocks. Immediately her skin turned black and blue. Of course she was fine and laughing it off. She decided that she needed a cooler story than just she fell. So she decided to tell everyone she got into a fight. She came into school saying "You should see the other girl!" There are many other Cheryl stories that I can tell you about, but I may need her permission first.

After high school Cheryl and I went to our respective colleges. I was off to SEMO to discover that little towns aren't my thing, but beer was, and she went off to Knox College to play volleyball and to be the voice of pigs all over the Midwest(Pigs Don't Vote!!). After our first year Cheryl transferred to SEMO and we would be roommates for a semester. I left for various reasons, none of which had to do with her or my two other wonderful roommates, Karen and Amy. The following few years would be tumultuous for both of us in our friendship and in our personal lives.

Shortly after she graduated she headed West to see what life had in store for her out there. First to Arizona then to California. Since this post is from my point of view, I'm not exactly sure how those years played out for her since our communication between each other was relatively low. I later would learn that things were not as great as they seemed, but out of it came the single most important life changing event for her. His name is Jackson.... her son.

Jack was born on the first anniversary of 9-11 and Cheryl has vowed to make that day a day of fun and celebration. At almost six years old, Jack-man (as some of us like to call him) is now a kindergartner. Like I said previously today is that day where she has to let him go just a little bit more. It's a tough day for all moms, but knowing Cheryl she'll get through it just fine.

So my ode to Woo-Woo is almost complete. The thing I admire most about her is her kind heart, generosity and positive energy. One flash of her super smile can take you out of any sort of funk and her "yuck yuck" laugh is contagious. She is certainly one of the most ambitious people I know. Her drive to give Jackson a life better than hers is one to be mirrored by all. She is putting herself through the physician assistants program at St. Louis University and is taking on financial stresses to make it work. And with a little help from her friends and family she will be graduating from SLU this December. The accomplishments this woman has made in her life are remarkable. The next 30 years are going to be even more fun filled and I am looking forward to sharing them with her.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY dear friend!!!
Love,
Meesh

This is directed specifically to Cheryl (a quote from your 21st b-day): Yes, this will be that kind of party and the "girls" will have to go into the salad! :)

Ants Marching

2008-08-13T09:30:00.003-05:00

Katie decided she wanted to get up earlier than normal today which to me was not a good idea. I decided to go running last night and after I was beyond exhausted. It didn't help that I also was mesmerized by the Olympics and didn't turn it off until China won in gymnastics. USA took the silver medal and did really well. GO USA!

Any who back to the story. So Katie and I went downstairs for breakfast and in my half awake state I began pouring her milk and getting an English muffin ready. I turned around to grab a knife and (cue squeaky horror music) there they were...ANTS! Ants are no fun and I just had the guy out to spray last Thursday. So now their back and I'm not a very happy camper. Ants just gross me out. I considered ditching breakfast and just taking Katie to McDonald's because at least ants won't be running around on the tables (at least I hope they don't). After all noticeable ants were destroyed and discarded we finished up quickly and left.

I pray I don't come home to even more ants. I hate ants, roaches and the most feared, snakes. I always tell Chris the day I find a snake in the yard is the same day we'll have to move. Until then I'll just keep calling the bug guy.

Update on Say Prayers Post

2008-08-12T11:49:00.002-05:00

Thanks to A Bun's Life for bringing to my attention that I need to update my previous post.

Sadly, my friend's little girl died later on August 1 after I had written the post. Evelyn no longer has to suffer and blessed her family with 29 days of life. She had Trisomy 18 and was a fighter. The visitation (yes it was open viewing) was last Wednesday evening and Thursday morning was the funeral. It was much harder than I expected it to be, so I can only imagine how Teresa and Andy are coping. The funeral was lovely and simple. It was a beautiful send off to a beautiful baby. Peace be with you Evelyn!

On to lighter topics. Friend who suffered a stroke returned home over the weekend and is recovering nicely. She is very happy to be back in her own bed surrounded by her sons and husband. We'll continue to pray for such a remarkable recovery.

The blogger who was originally diagnosed with cancer, does not have it. She too is home and doing well. They aren't too sure what she had, but are still trying to figure things out and quite possibly needs exploratory surgery.

Thanks again for everyone's prayers.

Say prayers

2008-08-01T15:17:00.003-05:00

I am asking for prayers for three separate families.

The first is my dear friend that I wrote about in a previous post . Her daughter is slowly declining and her days are numbered. I visited her yesterday and she was having a hard time breathing and actually stopped for a bit earlier that morning. Her parents thought for sure that was it, but incredibly she revived herself. Apparently, babies can do this. She obviously was not ready to leave yet. I ask that you pray God takes her peacefully and to end the suffering soon.

The second is for a friend of Chris's. Her sister suffered a stroke a few weeks ago. She is doing remarkably better. She's only 41, married and has two young boys. She's currently at a rehab center learning to walk and talk again. Her doctors and therapists say she is doing awesome, so she needs continued prayers of healing.

The third is for a fellow blogger, whom I've never met, who is going through quite a bit this week. She's only 35 and has a young son. The doctors think she may have cancer, but aren't sure. You can check out her blog for updates. Please leave her some kind words in her comments section.

I thank you all in advance.

Weekend stuff

2008-08-01T15:10:00.002-05:00

Aaahhh the weekend is here again. Thank goodness! This week has flown by and I can't believe its August. Well, I can because it is like a sauna outside. Yeah humidity!

Ever since we returned from our vacations, it seems as though life has finally slowed down a bit. Chris and I found ourselves somewhat bored last weekend with nothing to do. So we got ice cream. I love the weekends when we don't have any plans or major projects that need to be tackled. I have to admit that it's nice and I know it will only last a short while. So I will savor the calm.

So what's everyone's plans for the weekend? Mine include a baby shower and swimming at the in-laws. At some point I will need to finish the laundry, clean and my lovely husband will mow the yard. Katie plans on doing some sleeping, eating, napping, playing and being cute.

Have a great weekend!

What do you got?

2008-07-25T13:21:00.002-05:00

Yesterday morning as I was bringing the trash can up and leaving for work, I ran into the next door neighbor. Neighbor is our age, married and has two kiddos, 3 year old Son and 7 month old Daughter. Katie loves playing with Son and was playing with him Wednesday night. He has one of those Power Wheel trucks that he drives and Katie loves to ride along with him. Every time we're outside she makes a bee line to his house, regardless if he's outside or not.

Back to original story, Neighbor says to me "Hey we have a double ear infection, pink eye and a staph infection. What to you got?" Son had the ear infection and pink, Daughter had the staph infection from a bug bite. So Neighbor and I were talking about it when Katie made a bee line for their house. Being as we were on our way to daycare and work, I grabbed her and put her on our driveway and told her that we were all leaving and would play later. Que the tears and the fit. Katie immediately ended my conversation with tears and wailing. Neighbor just smiled and waved bye as they were on their way out also, and he's been through it before.

I was concerned by Neighbor's infections, but mostly concerned with the staph infection on Daughter. I'm sure it's no big deal and a hefty does of antibiotics will clear all. I'm now watching Katie for pink eye and praying she doesn't get it only because I don't want to take her to the doctor anymore than I need. I called a friend who told be all about pink eye because she's an elementary school principal and former 1st grade teacher. Pink eye is her speciality.

I'm sure a good does of meds and Grandma's love will make the Son and Daughter feel better soon. Grandma's house is where they were headed when Katie through a fit. I'll let you know if pink eye has entered our home.

Happy Dark Knight Day!

2008-07-18T11:39:00.001-05:00

I am more excited than a kid at Christmas right now. T minus 7 hours and 27 minutes until we see the Dark Knight. Everything I've read says it kicks ass and Heath Ledger is amazing.

Initially when Chris told me that Heath Ledger was playing the Joker I couldn't picture it, then I saw the way his face was painted and still didn't get it. Then I heard him speak and got chills. My excitement has been snowballing since then. I'm sure I'll be peeing my pants later (sorry Chris, but pack a change of clothes).

I'll let you know what I think tomorrow. Until then HAPPY BAT-DAY!!!

**UPDATE: The Dark Knight totally rocked and is a MUST SEE! I will babysit all kids so that you have a chance to see it. I can't talk about any aspect of this movie because it will ruin your experience. Chris already saw it for a 2nd time on Monday and I am jonesin' to see it again. Yes, it really is that good and surpasses the hype.

Trois

2008-07-18T11:28:00.000-05:00

July 16, 2005 was one of the best days ever in the history of me. I married the best person ever...Chris. It was blistering hot that day, but not even that would get me. The whole world could have burst into flames that day, but as long as I was married, who cares.

We were married at 1:30pm at St. Rose Philippine Duchesne church in Florissant and the reception was at the Franklin Room in Soulard. We wanted to get married at the church my parents were hitched in, but that church closed three weeks before the wedding. Merci, Rev. Burke! We knew that it was a possibility the church would close but didn't think it would that soon. Oh, well.

Fast forward three years...
We have a house, a beautiful little girl, an awesome dog and things seem to be headed in the right direction. So we celebrated three blissful years at Vin de Set. G-pa and G-ma offered to take the kids (Katie and Nellie) for the evening. SCORE!

Vin de Set was awesome and I highly recommend it. The evening weather was much cooler than our wedding day and we had a great rooftop view of downtown. The food was excellent and the complimentary champagne was delightful. So after a nice relaxing, kid less evening, we headed home and feel asleep. I know real party animals, huh.

Thank you to Chris for being the most patient, supportive, caring and loving husband a girl could ask for in a man. You have made all of my dreams come true and I love you a hole punch! Happy anniversary!!

Life sucks

2008-07-11T13:33:00.000-05:00

I know, real deep title. But just when you think things are actually going well, God reaches down and slaps you in the face! Thank you, but I don't think I need anymore slaps in the face.

I'm at the point in life where it seems everyone is getting married, having babies or enjoying single hood. Everyone seems to be doing well and things don't seem to get any better. And like I said WHAM! then it takes a nasty turn.

A friend of mine that I used to work with delivered her second child close to six weeks early. My friend who has a strong will and spunky personality really struggled with this pregnancy. She was somewhat relieved when the doctors rushed her to the hospital to deliver. She thought finally, She, the baby, will get the help She needs. She was born weighing 3 pounds 11oz. I thought to myself that this didn't seem so bad for being less than 6 weeks early. She's at a great hospital and She'll be home in no time to give my friend and her family sleepless nights, poopy diapers and lots of joy.

That changed yesterday. Little She was diagnosed with a fatal genetic disorder. From what I read it's a small miracle that She's here and everyday is a miracle. My friend told be that She would not make it to her 2nd birthday. Devastated is an understatement. What amazes me was how strong my friend was when she told me. I of course was a mess, but I naturally am. Friend has always had a strong personality, will tell you exactly what she's thinking and that's why we love her. Now she has to deal with this.

This is where life sucks. I don't understand why the most loving, caring, responsible people struggle to create a family, but crackhead and trash do. I am so sick of hearing about dirt bags on the news and in life that have children, abuse them, even murder them because of the parents' own self-centeredness. I really don't get it. If someone knows the answer please let me know.

In the mean time I'm asking everyone to pray for strength for She and her family. I didn't want to give her name because I don't know how the family would feel about me writing about this. Lots of prayers and give your kids an extra hug.

So much has happened...

2008-06-13T12:44:00.000-05:00

...in the last week I don't know where to begin.

FLORIDA!
Last Friday we headed down to Florida for my brother's wedding. We caravaned down with my mom and sister and stopped in Birmingham, AL for the night. We finished up Saturday and immediately hit the beach.
Monday, June 9, 2008 was wedding day. Everything went smoothly and the wedding was beautiful. You can check out pictures here. Katie was one of two flower girls and she managed to walk on the sand all the way down the aisle. The previous few days found her not wanting anything to do with sand, let alone walk on it. So at the eleventh hour she did it for Uncle Scott.
The next day we headed home. Chris and I need to get back to work and decided to make the trip in one day. Katie was a trooper and fought us getting her in her car seat, but realized the fight was useless. Luckily she slept a lot and her toys kept her entertained. We made it home Tuesday night. It was fun, but we were happy we made it home and that it was a short trip.

June 12....the big THREE OH!
Happy Birthday to me! Yesterday I said good-bye to my twenties (thank gawd) and entered my thirties. My only goal for this decade is not to repeat the last and to take care of myself a bit more. I don't feel any different, but I know I am different...and I think for the better. I was pretty brutal on myself the last decade and life was pretty brutal on me. I experienced my first real heart break, lost my dad, had to figure out how to run a business and learn that self-destructing was not the answer to any of these problems. All of this before 24!
Needless to say, the second half went much better. I figured out that only I can make myself happy, I think I know how to run a business and found my true love in both Chris and Katie. I am excited in what the next decade has in store for me. Tim McGraw's song has been running through my head constantly the last week on my next 30 years. We'll see.

False alarm...
My BFF, Stephanie is due to have her baby boy any minute. Yesterday, was her first trial run to the hospital. Her original due date is the 23rd, but she will be induced Monday if he doesn't come before then.
This baby has been 3+ years and thousands of dollars in the making. So for him to actually be here, being held in her arms is beyond what words can describe. The heartache, surgeries, needles, mood swings and hours of pain will all pay off very shortly. Excited for his arrival is an understatement.

The last week has been busy between weddings, birthdays, babies and returning to work after being closed for a few days. It's all been exciting and fun!

June 4

2008-06-05T16:04:00.000-05:00

This day to some of you may just be another day, but to me it was the day my life would change. 5 years ago Chris and I had our first date. I know it's not an exciting anniversary, but to us it is. So let me tell you the story of how we met and what led up to this day.

The day was cold and dreary. It was the day we laid to rest my best friend's grandfather and I was gearing up for another close friend's wedding (Yes, I went to a funeral and a wedding in the same day). The day was April 25, 2003. At the time I was dating the same type of guy I'd always dated- raging alcoholic, who still lived at home with dreams of becoming the next big thing but zero ambition. They were a lot of fun, but were going nowhere. So I drug him with me to the wedding and reception. This is where I would meet my future husband.

My friend, Karen-the bride, decided not to hire a DJ and asked me to MC the events of the evening. She asked me right before they would walk into the reception if I would announce the wedding party. My exact thoughts were "Sure. I'm not going to see any of these people again." This would be how I would gain Chris's attention...my big mouth! Towards the end of the night I would finally be introduced to my friend, Cindy's brother, Chris. Short pleasant Hi, nice to meet you and that was it. After the reception I and said "boyfriend" would be leaving as Chris was helping to load up the presents. In typical Chris fashion he made some sarcastic comment that made me laugh and I remember thinking that what he said really was funny and I didn't have to fake a laugh.

A few weeks went by when I received an e-mail from Cindy saying her brother was interested and I politely said that I was dating someone but thanks anyway. Not too long after the e-mail said "boyfriend" and I were on the outs and I had had it with men. I was no longer going to decide who I would date. My friends banned me from dating since I was not doing so well. These friends would be the ones to convince me to go on a date with Chris. Cindy and my friend, Karen-the bride, arranged everything and next thing I knew I was going on a date with Cindy's brother. My only expectation...free dinner!

Chris called me and we spoke on the phone a few times before he asked me out. The phone conversations were rather long for two people who didn't know each other and we seemed to hit it off. We decided that on June 4, 2003 we would go to Dave and Buster's for dinner and to play games. My girlfriends made it clear that dinner and a movie were not an option. So dinner and games it was.

After a cocktail or so then the conversation got rolling. I think the first game we played was basketball, then ski ball, then came the moment I had been waiting for my whole life. I asked him if we could play the Star Wars arcade game and I told him how I was a bit of a Star Wars geek. His face lit up and an excited "Me too!" came out of his mouth. We would spend the rest of the night talking and playing Star Wars. The rest as they say is history!

I would also like to say Happy Birthday to Jessica! I hope the angels and Kelli are giving you a great party! :)

4

2008-05-29T15:18:00.000-05:00

My baby is turning into a little girl :( ! I've always had a flare for the dramatic. Katie took four steps all on her own yesterday! Tomorrow she will take over the planet.

After she was finished with dinner, I got her out of her high chair and set her down to play. She was standing up all by herself, which isn't a shock, and it occurred to me to try and see if she would walk to me. I squatted down a few inches out of her reach and cheered her on like she was getting ready to claim Olympic gold. And next thing I know she did it. All. By. Herself. 4 little steps, like it was no big deal.

I instantly scooped her up, gave her a huge hug followed by a million "Oh, my big girl! Good job, Katie!" and kisses. Since Chris was outside cruisin' the lawn on his mower I had to flag him down and sign to him that Katie took 4 steps on her own. My signing is nothing like American Sign Language and I had to create my own. So it went something like this:

Arms flailing about, translation "Pay attention Chris"
My index and "bad" finger making the walking gesture, translation "Walk"
Point to person, translation "Katie"
Hold up four fingers, translation "Four".

Put it all together and it was "Hey Chris, Katie just took four steps! She walked!!!" Luckily, my neighbors know I'm a little off so me jumping around and acting silly really isn't that shocking to them. I'm just an excited Mom whose baby took her first steps. And yes, I do realize at some point in the very near future I will be regretting being this excited over her new found mobility.

Sweet Home Alabama

2008-05-12T13:45:00.000-05:00

We just returned from our first family vacation and it was the best! We went with our friends The Smiths, Woolseys, Cichacki and Schwarz's. There were 8 adults and 3 kiddos and we all had a great time!

Clockwise from left: Dr. Josh, Amy, Aunt Cindy, Uncle Tom, Jackson, Cheryl, Chris, Katie, Moi, Karen and Grant. We were dining at the Mellow Mushroom pizzeria.

We took 2 days to get down there and 2 days to get back. We weren't sure how the little ones would do in the car, but they exceeded our expectations. Granted we had a couple of melt downs, but that's to be expected. Would you enjoy being strapped into a not so comfortable seat for 2-3 hours at a time, with a possible wet/poopy diaper and the attention span of a pea? Yeah, didn't think so. However, I was traveling with Mom Of the Year, who brought an abundance of toys, books, puzzles, movies and CD's. Thanks Big K, I still have Happy Lemons in my head and now I think I'm addicted. As a side note, Ralph's World is a great CD that both child and parent can enjoy without parent wanting to shoot self.

Katie & Grant on the ride down. Our kick ass house, Ocean Breeze

Cheryl, Amy, Karen, Me and Katie upon arrival

We enjoyed a relaxing 5 days hanging out at the beach, pool and eating. We had a girls night so that we could celebrate us turning the big Three-Oh this year. We were all geared up for a crazy night on the town, as crazy as you can get on a spit of an island. We dined at a local restaurant, that had a bar, only to find out that they closed about 5 minutes after we were done eating. So we continued the fun back at our house. Cheryl makes awesome daiquiris!

Girls gone wild!

There was one not so fun element of our trip. We arrived in Gulf Shores Sunday afternoon and within a day, Katie was sick. Hand, foot and mouth virus. Luckily, we traveled with a pediatrician. She was pretty good for being sick and she still had fun. She perked up on Thursday night while we were packing for the trip home. Thanks Dr. Josh for your help and for bringing your scope. Next time remember the tongue depressor! Just kidding!! Mrs. Dr. Josh said that the family is willing to go with anyone as long as they pay for their trip. Something to consider when traveling with young toddlers!

Katie enjoying the beach. Katie building a sand "castle" with Dad

Sadly our fun times ended and we had to return home. I hate how the return home is so blah and how all you want to do it GET HOME. We did have one highlight. We stopped in Memphis and stayed at the Radisson. It was in the airport...literally. I opened the curtain to our hotel room and there was a plane cruising to the run way to take off. AWESOME! It wasn't too bad after 10pm, but some flights I suppose left at 4am, which was not awesome. But we had to be up anyway.

The trip was great and I hope we can do it again soon. We definitely had the perfect group go and we were only missing one person to make it complete. Next year, Tim will have to go, but only if the prices are right (yes, it's an inside joke).

You can enjoy more vacation pics at our Shutterfly account!

Sweet Home Chicago

2008-05-12T13:30:00.000-05:00

A few weekends ago Chris and I Amtrack-ed it up to Chi-town for our dear friend's wedding. The train ride up was definately the way to go being how it costs $40 a day to park and then some if you want to come and go freely from wherever you are. So we arrived somewhat on time and once we got our barrings, we set up to conquer the CTA. Us at "The Bean"

We stayed at the Embassy Suites on State Street in hopes that other friends would be joining us. Who knew there are 2 Embassy Suites only a few blocks apart? So sadly our friends were at the other. Friday night we met up with the clan for the rehearsal dinner and it was a blast.
Wedding party
There's one thing you have to understand about the 4 boys from Emerald Woods, ok maybe a few things you need to understand, but the main one is that you will never meet a more loyal group of "brothers". Only 1 of them has an actual blood brother. The other 3 sort of adopted each other. The love and support they have for one another is truely genuine and can never be divided.
Chris, Matt, Rick & Jim- Band of Brothers

And unlike most brothers, they banter and joke like they haven't missed a beat. Even though they are in their early 30's, they instantly transform into the 12 years old that grew up playing in the creek, dressing like Bo and Luke Duke even in the 100 degree STL heat and watching Batman, Young Guns and Indiana Jones movies over and over. It's fun to watch them Transform into kids.
Do you remember that scene from Superman?
I'm such a good groomsman!

This is what makes me giddy and excited to hang out with this group. Matt was the last one out of Rick, Jim and Chris to be married. His bride, Ashley, was beautiful and gracious. The jazz band and reception were top notch and I couldn't have had more fun! It was sort of a bittersweet time. Now we look forward to vacations to each others homes and will make it a point for the at least the boys to get together once a year. I wish we all lived in one city instead of being spread out among L.A., Minnesota, Chicago and St. Louis.
The circle is now complete! Mary & Jim, Sachiko & Rick, Matt & Ash, Us

Congratulations to Matt and Ashley as they begin their new life together!

Happy Mom's Day!

2008-05-12T13:25:00.000-05:00

I know...slacking again.

I wanted to wish all you wonderful Moms out there a Happy Belated Mother's Day! Mine was great. We returned from a wonderful vacation early Saturday, so all I wanted to do was stay in vacation mode and BE LAZY. Mission accomplished! Thank you Chris and Katie!!

So this is how my day went..
Woke up to Chris making cinnamon muffins and Katie still sleeping. SCORE! Thank you Betty Crocker.

Katie finally woke up at 9am..she was still in vacation mode. We got dressed and headed over to Aunt Mary's for a fantastic brunch. She out does herself everytime. Katie was pumped to hang out with the Linneman clan and she got to steal Grandpa's glasses off his face. It's a cute game they play that I fear will end one day with us buying Grandpa glasses.

We returned to Chez Linneman where the whole family napped until it was time to go to dinner with my Mom and family @ J. Bucks. YUMMY!

The the day ended with Katie going to bed early and the hubby and I finished American Gangster. Great movie by the way.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

Katie B-day Pics

2008-04-24T10:34:00.000-05:00

I love my swing. Thanks Mom and Dad!
Assume the tired position. All this fun is making me sleepy!

Katie and her betrothed,Grant, going for a spin in her new wagon.

SCORE!! PRESENTS!!!

Everyone look at my new wagon! Thanks, Aunt Jen!!!

Mom, Me and Dad + Cake
I don't want to ruin the letters so I'll just pick here.
Yeah CAKE!!!
I love fruit!
Happy Birthday to me!

Sorry it took so long to get these up. I'm a little slow sometimes and I still have Thank You cards to write. Guess what I'm doing this weekend! There are more pics at linneman dot shutterfly dot com.

Next Blog>>

2008-04-24T10:10:00.000-05:00

At the top of this page you should see Next Blog>> . Have you ever played with that? I'm sure you have, but since I'm a blog virgin, I just discovered this feature. It's like a mini trip around the world. It's pretty fun.

I have no idea what some of the blogs are saying, but so far I think I've been to Africa, South America, Australia, parts of Asia and Europe. And of course destinaions on this continent. If you have 20 minutes to kill, check it out.

If you are in STL try to stay dry today and keep your car windows up. I left mine down this morning and I was fortunate to receive my second shower. Katie's car seat is partially soaked but it should dry by the time I pick her up. Hopefully, she will not have Mike Tyson-ed anyone today!

Katie = Jaws

2008-04-23T14:58:00.001-05:00

I just received a phone call from my sitter that my daughter purposely bit another child. TWICE!! My cute, innocent little 12 month old out of nowhere leaned over and bit her buddy. 10 minutes after the first incident, and after being reprimanded, she did it again! I apologized to the sitter and of course I'll apologize to the other mom, but seriously. 12 months...I thought I had time. I just packed away her bottles last weekend. Now she's gone from cute and cuddly to full blown toddler terror.

OK, so maybe I'm blowing this out of proportion and being overly dramatic...hey, it's what I'm good at...over reacting. Just ask anyone that's met me. I guess I thought I wouldn't have to start dealing with this type of behavior for a while. I know parents think "not my kid". Of course, I'm trying not to be "that parent". I guess my thinking is "not my kid...yet".

If anyone has any advice I'll greatly accept it. It's not like I can give her a stern talking to or make her sit in her crib the rest of the evening and have her think about what's she's done. By the time I pick her up she's not even going to remember what happened. I'm lucky the other mom seems to be pretty level headed and won't slash my tires when I go to pick her up. At least I hope!

5.2

2008-04-18T13:38:00.000-05:00

Like many in the Mid-West, we were awaken to a rattling handle of our chest of drawers. Obviously we are not accustomed to this type of racket so we both jumped up to figure out what was going on. The house sounded like it does in windy conditions, but didn't explain why we heard the pipes echoing or why the furniture was moving. After it was done, it indeed was an earthquake! Here in St. Peters! WTF?!?!

These only happen in California or other nations on the Pacific Rim, right? However, they can occur anywhere. It really did freak us out. There have been predictions of "The Big One" taking out the STL and surroundings. I was even kept home from school December 3 198something because someone "predicted" this was when the Big One was going to hit. I remember we all practiced the "duck and cover" in school multiple times. Everyone was urged to stock up on non-perishables and bottled water, battery radios, flashlights and various first-aid necessities. I guess I never thought an earthquake was going to happen here.

Luckily, no lives were lost and no damage to our home or other structures in the area. I have heard reports that some windows were broken and I'm sure various picture frames or figurines were broke, but nothing catastrophic. The most damage we saw was a Fozzy Bear that had fallen off the shelf in Katie's room. Don't worry, Fozzy is soft and landed nowhere near her!

We have had one aftershock that was at 10:14am that again freaked me out. I read that local schools did the "duck and cover" and were evacuated temporarily before resuming classes. I sat at my desk in the office and watched my monitor shake and felt my desk vibrate. Chris called not too long after saying he felt the floor in his office shake and watched his bosses desk jiggle. Again, no harm done. Just a lot of freaked out people!

Not much

2008-04-08T15:53:00.000-05:00

My creativity is on empty which is why this blog has not been too interesting. I am happy that I have a million things to do and none of which pertains to school. YEAH!!

Last night was Katie's last swim class. We took it at the YMCA and her instructor, which in on child #5, was very sweet. We started the class the first of March and many have asked what exactly does one teach a baby in the water. It mainly boils down to her learning commands such has "kick", "pull", and "Ready, go!". The class was to get her used to the water. Let me tell you it was like Katie and the pool were BFF's. She loved every minute of it. She figured out how to kick, hold her breath, swim underwater and to stand while in the pool. It was a lot of fun despite me having to don a swim suit. Much more will be learned this summer at the G-parents' house.

In other news...I would like to direct everyone to Kim's blog. Some of you may recall the tragic accident that happened after Thanksgiving last year in which a police officer was traveling at 126 mph and killed two sisters. Well Kim is the mother of the two girls. She truely is amazing. I don't think I would function after such an event, but her strength and resilience are something to envy.

Check out Katie's b-day pics at our link.

Sorry...

2008-04-07T14:15:00.000-05:00

It's been a while. I know. Thanks for reminding me Fly.

Life has been kind of crazy lately so here it goes...

Work is not going so well. The "Company" decided to do a major rate hike, despite their pomp and circumstance that it's necessary and not so bad, and people are none too pleased. Would you be please with a 20% increase? Yeah, didn't think so.

On the flip side Katie turned one last Friday! I can't believe my baby is a toddler and that Chris and I survived the first year. Now our biggest hurdle is transitioning from bottle to sippy cup. She at least acknowledges our feeble attempts but still goes screaming for the bottle.

We had her birthday party over the weekend. It was a lot of fun, gorgeous weather and I didn't stress out. Jen and I slaved away making cupcakes and thanks to the loving help of my family I didn't have to make all the food. Chris helped with cleaning and decorating, and Katie helped by napping and being adorable. I'll try to post pics later.

The day of her birthday, before the party, we took her to the Zoo and to Fitz for dinner. That day was cold and gloomy, but we think she had fun. She got to pet a goat and talk loudly at dinner. How else was a girl to spend a day with the 'rents...goats and root beer?!?!

The rest of the month is consumed with vacation planning, showers and wedding to throw/attend. Plus we need to squeeze in some home improvement projects and try to lose/gain a few pounds before hitting the beach in the next couple of months. I say lose/gain because it's an epic battle in our house. I want to lose and Chris wants to gain. So I run like a mad woman and he pumps iron like no tomorrow. As long as we end up healthy then that's what really matters, right?

Again, I apologize for not being a good blogger. I'll try harder to keep up!

The Best Disappointment Ever

2008-03-21T10:26:00.000-05:00

Chris and I survived Rolla and I survived my first weekend away from Katie. We had a great time meeting up with his old roommates and wandering around campus to see what has changed in the last decade. Rolla is a quaint little town that is filled with memories for Chris. So it was nice to see him excited about being back.

So the weekend started off by dropping off Katie at the sitter's, grabbing breakfast, trading cars and listening to Alice in Chains Jar of Flies cd. This is what the Rolla boys did every year to kick off St. Pat's. We arrived just around 10am and headed to the Student Center for the infamous Gonzo Games. I saw the pictures and heard the stories of previous Gonzo Games and this year was just shy of a failure, according to the alumni. It was held indoors, on a perfectly gorgeous Friday afternoon, by the school and I didn't witness one game. Just a bunch of students who showed up because their respective organizations made them and didn't do much of anything. Luckily for us there was a beer garden serving up $1 beers.

This is where the Parents Gone Wild begins. Most of us in the group dropped the kids off with the relatives, so it was a well deserved weekend "off". Cards were dealt out along with drinks. In no time we were drunk! We then went to Alex's pizza that had some of the best pizza ever. This was our main source of nourishment all weekend, beer and pizza. I ended the day just shy of 5pm and Chris continued on at TJ's bar.

The next day was the parade. The alumni association had a party for us offering free breakfast avec beer and then more free beer and pizza for lunch. Score! We met up with a couple of friends before the parade, while the majority hung out at the Grotto. The Grotto wanted a car payment for us to sit inside their establishment to drink for 4 hours. No thanks, we're cheap.

The parade was lack luster and I guess what you can expect in a small town. However, this was sold as the 100th BEST EVER ST.PATS! Something more than regional beauty queens please. Oh, wait they did drum up the Clydesdale, which is always my favorite. Not even the "greek" community of the school was into it.

We did learn that the QBC, or Quarter Barrel Chug, had been cancelled due to a horrific accident. I'm not sure of the details so I won't go into it. This was understandable, yet our friends made their own. Chris and I did not participate because we weren't there yet. This happened Thursday and we did not arrive until Friday.

After everyone drug Joelsy and Sarah out of the Grotto, we met up with them to indulge in some more beverages. After the parade, and while we waited for the others, Chris and I made up our own fun in the hotel. We cracked up a few cold ones and began our own drinking games. This consisted of us watching to of the worst college basketball games ever. We picked a team and when ever the team scored we would take a drink. Nobody was scoring so we moved on.

Then we met up with the Grotto bunch, got some Maid Rite and headed to bed. Sunday morning we met up with the survivors of the Grotto and dined at S'n'S for some breakfast. Then we parted ways, to head home to our babies, with hopes that we'll do this again in another 10 years. I'm sure we'll see each other before then and can't wait.

So here's to Fly, Becky, Joelsy, Joelsy's parents and family, Lady, Tamm, Lucy, LB, Monkey, Kristine, Sarah, Stain, MR and of course, Lems! Thanks for the great mini-vacation and for making this one of my Best Ever St. Pat's!!

Top O' the Mornin' Miners!!

2008-03-13T15:44:00.001-05:00

This weekend the husband and I are venturing just soutwest of here to the great town of Rolla. Home of the 100th Annual Best Ever St. Pat's. Chris hasn't been back since he graduated oh so long ago and neither have many of his college buddies.

You see the group consisting of Lems, Fly, Becky, Stain, Sarah, Monkey, Tam, Lady and Joelsy all decided that no matter what, no matter what was going on in their lives, careers, families, The Hills, they would go back to their alma mater and celebrate this glorious event. For those of you who don't know St. Patrick is the patron saint of engineers and being how Rolla is home to the now Missouri University of Science and Technology (formerly UMR and MSM), it's full of engineers, thus resulting in a well deserved break from studying leading to a week long beer fest.

We head out tomorrow to join fellow current and past Miners to get our drink on, as the kids may say. I'm not sure what to expect, but know that these plans have been in the works for over a decade. I do know that the Rolla friends I've met so far have been very welcoming and a lot of fun. So I can't wait to meet the rest! I am saddened because this will be the first weekend away from Katie, but I know that she is going to have lots of fun with the grandparents and won't even realize we're gone.

I'll be sure to post pictures of the weekend festivies. Look out Alice!

Beware the Ides of March

2008-03-05T20:15:00.000-06:00

Other than St. Patrick's day, March sucks! This is the month I loathe and have always feared. Nothing good has ever come of this month and tonight is evidence of this.

Most of you know that the 5th of March is not my favorite day. This was the evening I lost my Dad six years ago. As the years pass this day has been a little bit easier to get through. I still get a little sad in the evening time, around the exact time of his passing, so I just hang out and remember all the good times with Dad.

Well, tonight didn't exactly go like the years past. As usual, Chris and I were exhausted from work and mustered up enough energy to play with Katie when we got home. We went through our routine of playing, getting a bottle, feed Katie dinner, more playing then putting Katie to sleep. Then the both of us collapsed on the couch. After about an hour of vegging, Chris decided to cook us dinner.

I heard him clanging and shaking and stirring so I sauntered in to see what was on the menu. Oven-fried chicken parmesan! He preheated the oven, made the chicken and then set the timer. I returned to the couch and he headed upstairs to wait for dinner to finish. A couple of minutes later is when all hell broke loose....

I hear him fearfully yet calmly say "Uhh, the oven's on fire!" My reaction, "Huh?!?!" Then as I sprang from the couch to see what was the matter I saw visions of my house in flames. There were sparks and smoke and shocked faces. We were in awe that this was actually happening in our kitchen.

After about 10 seconds reality kicked in and Chris turned off the oven. I ran upstairs to get my shoes and started plotting what to do next. The neighbors are going to love this! When I came back down the fire was dying out and Chris was frantically calling his Dad. Like he always does in major events to get his advice.

We're not really sure what happened, but the heating element is burnt and broken into two pieces. So the oven and stove are off limits until we figure out what is going on. Chris is on his way to get Arby's and I guess we'll have to figure out how to cook sans the oven.

So I heed a warning to you all...Beware the ides of March!! Only 26 more days...

Sick, Snow, Shines and Senior

2008-02-25T12:16:00.000-06:00

I know I haven't been keeping up with my blog and I apologize. I have all these ideas that I think are overwhelming me so in turn I just don't write anything. So here's a quick update about my past week.

Let's start with sick...just like everyone else the Linneman's have been sick. It started off that Chris had a sore throat that turned out to be nothing. He was so loving that he shared it with me that turned into a nice cold, but I recovered quickly. Then with a one-two punch I shared the illness with Katie and my sister, Jen. Jen's turned into the flu which she is still recovering and Katie's turned into an ear infection. Jen had a 100 degree fever and was out of work last Wednesday and Thursday and it now has been downgraded to a cold. Katie's has led to one of the worst weeks in her tiny existence.
Last Wednesday night I was up all night with her as she coughed and cried and pulled on her ears. The only was to comfort her was to let her sleep on my chest which she now thinks is the best thing ever and refuses to nap in her bed. Let me say that it has been Chris and I's goal to have our child sleep in her own bed. Co-sleeping was never an option.

Anyway, Katie's illness leads me to snow. Yes last Thursday we had to venture out to go see the doctor in a not-so-fun-ice/sleet/freezing rain/snow storm. (Thank you Mother Nature for throwing this at us all at once. No need to slack!) Katie and I made it to the doctor's office, pharmacy and back home in one piece. Chris came home early from work because of the weather and I was able to get a well needed nap.

On to the Shines...Since Katie was feeling better and was dying to hang out with G-Ma and G-Pa Linneman, Chris and I were able to spend the night out with our wonderful friends the Shines. We went to a cute little restaurant off Main St in St.Charles called The Vine ~Wine Bar and Bistro. The atmosphere was cozy and we enjoyed the evening with great food, decadent wine and great music...Thanks to Russ and Dawn for making the evening great! Russ was the musician and Dawn was our server that let us sample many wines.

And that brings us to Senior. Now that Nellie is 7 1/2 years old that makes her officially a senior dog. She had her annual trip to the vet on Saturday and the tech there gently told me that my dog is officially "old". I suspected that this would happen, but it doesn't bother me so much because Nellie still acts like the puppy I fell in love with in the window. She enthusiastically enjoys playing, going for walks, getting treats and going bye-bye. Other than sleeping a little more and her white fur is beginning to outweigh the brown, you can't tell how old she is. So what does this have to do with the vet? Apparently, now they need to test more to make sure she's still functioning properly. I think she's fine, but I guess it's good to know if something lurks up then we can treat it. So they suckered me out of a car payment, but she's worth it!

So there's been our last week and I promise to update more often. As long as everyone stays healthy this shouldn't be a problem.

St. Valentine's Day

2008-02-14T10:37:00.000-06:00

Normally I'm a Scrooge when it comes to today. My personal belief is that you don't need to just one day to tell someone you love them. You should do it everyday! I also feel that it has become way to commercialized. I think this is some how a scheme hatched by giant retailers to get people to go shopping and spend, spend spend. People also make this day hell for those that are single. I remember feeling like such a loser because I didn't have a date for this night. However, my fellow "losers" and I bonded together by having our own evenings out. This usually consisted of pizza, A-B products and movies. Thanks guys!

Since I don't want my daughter to grow up cynical, I'm trying to change my tone. We made Valentine's for her sitter and the other kiddos at her house. We even made some for other family members. Katie was all decked out in her Valentine's day gear that consisted of heart jeans, red heart hoodie, heart bib and heart socks. Chris and I try to keep it low key by staying home and just exchanging cards.

I know some of you may be appalled at our lack of excitement over this day. I don't expect a great romantic evening filled with flowers, chocolate, champagne or diamonds. Don't get me wrong, I would love to have all of the above. But honestly, we can do this any day of the year. And frankly, if you are expecting this, then you're in for a big disappointment. This typically only happens in movies.

So in my own consorted effort to change the hype that goes along with today, don't forget to tell everyone you love, friends, family, siblings, children, even your boss, that you love them and to have a Happy Valentine's Day!

When a Man Loves a Women....

2008-02-06T20:17:00.000-06:00

After we dug ourselves out of the 8 inches of snow, we attended the wedding of a very dear friend of mine that I've known since grade school. I'm pretty fortunate to have friends that I have known most of my life and so it is bittersweet when you watch them walk down the aisle.

So as we were hunting for a seat at the reception, we found a table half-full of some generous guests that allowed us to dine with them (there was no assigned seating). Sitting amongst us were 2 little old ladies, an older gentleman and a younger-than-the-old-ladies woman. She was married and insisted on getting a plate for her tardy husband. Most of us had finished dinner and the buffet was being broken down, when in walked the last member of our table. As we turned around to see who was joining us, we both were a little shocked to see this guy....

Yes sir, we dined with Mr. No-Talent-Ass-Clown himself, Bolton...Michael Bolton! In all fairness to the future Mr. Nicolette Sheridan he was quite the character and a distant friend of the newlyweds. Chris really enjoyed this picture. This was how our night sans Katie started.

The rest of the evening was a blast and it was great to hang out with old friends again. The music was great and the rum and cokes flowed all night. This was our first night that Katie stayed with the Grandparents so of course we had to have fun. And fun was had!!

Take Your Dog to Work Day

2008-01-31T10:01:00.000-06:00

This morning Nellie begged me to take her to work with me. And by begged I mean whined and camped out in front of the garage door. Let me remind you that Nellie is NOT a dog! To be honest, I've never treated her like one other than she eats and drinks from a bowl and potties outside. Other than that she is treated like our "firstborn". She rides in the front seat, sleeps in our bed, gets her own spot at the table for Waffle breakfasts and even checks in on Katie in the mornings. So when she throws a fit to go "bye-bye" I usually listen and she gets to go.

Nellie used to go with me to work at least once a week BK (Before Katie). Now that I need to get two people dressed, fed and out the door these weekly trips to the office don't exist for Nellie. I think she understands. Except for today. She was tired of being couped up and demanded to see the outside world.

For 7 1/2 years Nellie has been coming to the office. When I first got her my dad would insist bringing her to work. I thought it was weird, but he would say "Who cares. It's my office and I want to see the puppy." Nellie has learned the route to work and about 1/2 mile from the office she starts going nuts in the car. Once we pull into the parking lot she starts jumping around in the seat as if to say "Whoo Hoo we're here! Let me out! Let me out!". She then runs straight to the door and once inside darts for her toy. Then up on my desk where she hangs out for most of the day, only to get up to bark at the mailman, UPS, DHL and any other delivery/mail truck that come through.

So there you have it. A day in the life of Nellie. Well at least the day she gets to come to work. Now if some how she could do actual work....

Do you find that hard?

2008-01-21T12:20:00.000-06:00

I just finished reading an article post on one of my favorite blogs www.mamalogues.com about society's views on parenting. A writer for the NY Magazine had an article that basically states that men/fathers are to blame for moms/women not being able to fulfill the "perfect parents" role. If you think you are a perfect parent, think again. You're not any better for staying home or for working. In my opinion they are both equal.

So here's my take on staying home vs. working mom or dad. I fully believe that the choice is up to the family and everyone needs to keep their two cents out of it. I was at a gathering once that a fellow mom, who happened to stay home, asked me if I found working and parenting to be hard. Initially, I wasn't offended by it and I still believe she didn't mean any harm, but I thought it was kind of a silly question. Of course it's hard! My response was that it's not any easier than staying home. My point is that being a mom or dad is hard...period. Regardless if you work or a stay at home parent.

Oh and here's how I feel about the stay at home fathers...more power to you boys!! It sickens me to see how the world views these men. If you are the one thinking this is not acceptable then shame on you. In an ideal world no parent would have to work and we would all get to stay home and hang out with the kids. But then who would we have to judge us?

The NY Magazine article also labeled bad parenting by terms of Britney Spears and Michael Jackson. Any comparison, OF ANYTHING, to that of a Hollywood celebrity is ridiculous. First of all their lives are not comparable to my life, or anyone else I know. To me they do not live in reality. Second, People magazine and Entertainment Tonight only report part of the story, so we don't know anymore about their lives then what the media reports. So who am I to judge Ms Spears and Mr. Jackson parenting?

Can't we all just get along!

The Beginning

2008-01-17T12:35:00.001-06:00

Ok, so this is my first blog and my very first post. So please bare with me as I navigate the blogosphere!
So here is a little bit more about me:
I'm 29, female, caucasion, American, wife, mom, business owner, sister, daughter and friend. I have been married for 2 1/2 years and my daughter is 9 months old. We also have a 7 year old maltese/lasa apso dog named Nellie. She is a little princess and we haven't told her she's a dog, so please don't spill the beans.
I've been an insurance and financial services agent for almost 6 years and run my agency with my sister. We inherited the business from my dad upon his passing. He was an agent for 20+ years. My mom is still with us and is doing well. Like most mom/daughter relationships, mine is good althought we both get on each other's nerves. We may be too much a like, but I'm not ready to admit that.
I recently completed my bachelors degree in accounting. It took me the better part of a decade to complete, but life doesn't always go the way we planned. Thanks to my husband, daughter, family and friends for putting up with me while I finished. I was not so pleasant to be around the last 6 months. Now it's over and I find myself a bit "lost" without the constant worry about classes.

So there you have it folks. My first official post as a blogger. Thought I probably shouldn't call myself a blogger for only just writing one post. Let me know what you think!