Oh, The Irony

Hardworking Hubby bought me a Business Messenger Phone. I call it my electronic office because it has programs such as Microsoft packages, phone applications and calendar. So, here is me being efficient and tech savvy, putting in Hardworking Hubby's, Sportsboy and my people to see, things to do, and places to go, as well as memos.

One of those places to go was the PTO meeting that took place today. I checked my calendar, and the PTO was to take place 7 p.m. CST. Sportsboy and I went home and hung out for about 40 minutes, and then we left.

At 7 p.m., the meeting WAS going on--it didn't start. I realized as I walked in and saw them deeply in conversation. In my mind, I groaned. I hate being late to anything, especially when things are happening.

Well, at the end of the night, I was designated as grant writer for Sportsboy's school and in charge of the newsletter. I don't mind those things. I think it is the parents and staff's responsibility to help make your child the best school possible.

You do what you can do.

All Sportsboy Wanted to Do Was Just Help

Sportsboy's teacher emailed me yesterday to tell me that Sportsboy picked up other children's backpacks off the floor when their teacher told those specific children to do them. Sportsboy's teacher wanted the other children to learn responsibility. I explained to his teacher in an email that Sportsboy likes to help and that he has done other activities so he could learn valuable lessons in human compassion.

Sportsboy's teacher emailed me today and said that she gave Sportsboy extra jobs to help in the classroom during free time. He loved it. He came home today and told me that he was a special helper. He felt very proud of himself. Sportsboy's teacher mentioned that in the email as well.

His teacher and I agreed that Sportsboy has to be taught boundaries when helping others because it is important for others to take responsibilities of their actions and not to rely on others to "rescue" them.

Walgreens

I just want to confess I love Walgreens and it is a secret vice of mine. I love looking at the weekly ads and figuring out how I can get the most stuff for the least amount of money. I have been very happy about their free products and their rebate club. For those who don't shop walgreens because frankly it can be expensive if you don't shop the sales or rebates. There is a monthly book that comes out with coupons and rebates that come on a gift card with a 10% extra back every month. This is made very easy now because you can do this all on line now. For instance, I have a 10.23 cent rebate from last month because I bought the "Free" facial cleanser and had a dollar off of arm and hammer detergent. Now I will use the card this week when i stock up on baking supplies. I love this time of year because I love to bake and it is a great excuse when everything is on sale. The other great thing about Walgreens is that you can stack manufacture coupons on top of Walgreens coupons or rebates. I have got some amazing deals this way. I will post my next awesome trip. Today was small, I got four boxes of Kellogs Mini wheats, with a dollar coupon on each for six dollars with a register reward for two dollars which works out to be a dollar a box. Register rewards for those who do not know can be used on your next shopping trip like cash just be advised you can only use one of them at a time and they have a expiration date. So happy shopping everyone!

Sportsboy and the Fever

Ah. It is that time of year when we get the weather change as well as a wellness change, especially with children. Poor Sportsboy woke up with a fever on Thursday. I hate fevers. I know they are good to a certain extent because they are fighting infections. But still. They make me nervous.

Sportsboy didn't eat all day until around 7 p.m. or so, which I thought was GREAT. However, he did drink liquids and took Motrin and Tylenol.

The next day, I checked Sportsboy's temperature. Yea! No fever. However, after school, he showed signs of tiredness. When I thought things were getting better, Sportsboy woke up in the middle of the night crying from an earache. Remembering to check the medicine cabinet, I found medicine for earache the doctor said I could use (just keep an eye on the expiration date). After coaxing Sportsboy to let me put drops in his ear, he finally let me while his dad gave him Motrin a few minutes later.

Saturday: Sportsboy seemed more energetic, but still a bit tired. Instead I felt run down, so I did not take Sporstboy to his martial arts class. However, that night, Sportsboy almost slept like a baby with a little whining here and there.

Sunday: Sportsboy appears to be more energetic than Saturday. He went to Weekend School, and then he visited his cousin for a bit. Let me just say the socialization seemed to help, and I hate to admit and the cold, fresh air as well.

As parents, we worry about our children's health. Often times to the point of feeling run down or exhausted after they feel better. So, don't forget to take care of yourself.

History In the Making!

We are fortunate to see history in the making. Barak Obama, the first African American President of the United States of America! We were there. Baby Princess will not remember this moment in history, and hopefully when she is of voting age, she will not be able to fathom thought of not electing someone due to race or religion.

Which brings me to this: though I lean towards the right do to obvious reasons (I work in corporate America), I want my daughter to be educated on the issues the person stands for when running for office. I want her to make her own intelligent decision when casting a vote. She needs to understand the issues that concern her. Now with that said, where and how will she be educated? Well it starts at home.

Geeky Dad and I consider ourselves moderately conservative. We like the idea of small government, traditional family values and reducing government funded programs to eliminate the need to raise taxes. I intend to teach Baby Princess the values that we live and believe in to ensure that she has a strong foundation. Education starts at home, so education starts with us.

Trick or Treat .. . . . .Halloween? Not This Year!

No, we did not hand out candy. I know, I know. I want to create memories, but yet I did not partake in this national event. Why? Simple, short on time. I need to be extremely selective on the activities we do. I came home from work and it was 5 pm and I did not have any candy. Plus we needed to be at the grandparent's house by 7 pm. We did not feel like we missed out on anything. Perhaps as Baby Princess grows, Geeky Dad and I may feel differently.

I did however buy a practical functional "costume" for Baby Princess. I am way too practical to purchase a costume that does not serve another function. So I bought a baby bear snowsuit to use throughout our Chicago winters. Cute! And yes, we took lots and lots of pictures.

Halloween Helping in Class and Being in the top 20

I worked a half-day at work today, so that I can help Sportsboy and some of his classmates into their Halloween costumes. Sportsboy was a ninja. Some of his classmates were witches, a farmer, grim reaper, and characters from movies.

After helping children get into their costumes, several parents and I sat at the table watching the class as the teacher directed them with Halloween and Fall songs passing the time until it was time to line up for the parade where parents will be watching. The parade took place outside where hundreds of people were standing and watching. A friend of mine took a photo of Sportsboy wearing his costume.

Now, I get to take Sportsboy out trick or treating. I am excited because I want to share traditions that I experienced with him. His first time was last year. My brother took him. I think it was awesome that my brother volunteered to take Sportsboy.

Oh yeah, one more thing. I was cornered today to help prepare for some activities next week. Not a problem because I do believe parents should be active in their child's school for many reasons. Parents and School staff need to work in the best interest of the childrens.

I also want to give a shout out to: Sportsboy's school, Great School for being 16th out 115 schools in four counties!! WOOT! Last year they were number 52 out of 115. I congratulated the principal and secretary for a job well done.

Preparing Halloween Treat Bags

Sportsboy and I prepared 21 Halloween treat bags: 16 classmates, 1 teacher, 1 principal, 1 secretary, 1 nurse, and 1 counselor. We put a mixture of candies from Hardworking Hubby's workplace, 1 pencil, and 1 Dracula teeth.

Sportsboy and I counted in six different languages as we filled each bag just so he could be entertained (he dislikes repetitive work).

Halloween doesn't bother me as long as kids "party" for fun, to me it's harmless fun. I personally find it a bit disturbing when I see adults getting into it for themselves and not the kids.

Sort of Like the Boy Who Cried Wolf?

I feel kind of guilty. Guilty for not believing Sportsboy totally when he said that his stomach hurt a lot. I asked him to use the bathroom. He said no that he didn't have to. He kept saying his stomach hurt. He then began to get whiny. Sportsboy has a small reputation of being what I call a Drama King. That's right. Not Queen, but King. He likes to make something minor HUGE at times.

Then I lectured him about how cool it is getting outside and that he needed to listen to his dad and I when we tell him to wear a coat. I was in the kitchen when Sportsboy came in complaining about his tummy. As I was preparing dinner, Sportsboy cried out that he was going to vomit. I quickly pulled him to the trash can where he indeed vomited.

He cried a little bit more. I told him he was fine, and that he should feel better now. I gave him a hug as I helped clean him up (and the floor). I then told him to go to the bathroom and rinse his mouth out. He then got to drink 7 UP at night (which I rarely allow). He was much happier and he said he felt much better.

He also told me that he was going to remind himself to listen to his dad and I when we tell him to dress more.

I made sure he was nice and cozy in bed as I read two stories to him. As I finished the second book, I turned to look at Sportsboy and saw him fast asleep.

You gotta love their stubbornness.

Been Asked to Run for President of PTO

I attended a parent's coffee talk last night at Sportsboy's school. The topic was building your child's self esteem. We watched a DVD so 1990s, received a booklet and discussed parenting issues over coffee and cookies. Sportsboy was hanging out with other kids in another classroom supervised by high school helpers.

The counselor that run the meeting also told me that she would love to sit with me because I intrigue her and she wanted to find out how I get my inspirations. Being a good sport, I laughed in response to her statement. (I told Hardworking Hubby that she would be in shocked if she found out I was a private school principal).

After the meeting was over, a parent approached me asking if I would run for PTO president next year! I was speechless because I least expected this question being a first time parent in an elementary school. I refused, and she wouldn't take no for an answer. Finally I told her, come back to me in a year and we'll take it from there. That seemed to satisfy her.

The parent also mentioned to me that the PTO secretary had to resign due to family schedule. She also told me that no one has filled that spot. I told her if no one wants it, then I will give it a try. Although it may mean more work for me, I always like getting experiences.

When I told all this to my Hardworking Hubby, he wasn't surprised one bit. He even said that I would do GREAT at running the PTO (because of my experience of being a principal at a private school).

More Free Coffee

Once again, you're welcome.

Moms: No Excuses Not to Vote

I was surfing the web when I saw the title of this press release:

Sittercity.com and TodaysMama Team Up to Offer Free Babysitting on Election Day: Through MamaVote Initiative, Partners Work to Get Moms Out to Vote in 2008 Election

Read here for more info: http://www.sittercity.com/press_release_MamaVote_Oct08.html.

Remember the excuses of not to vote are getting smaller and smaller.

Transitioning into Fall

It has been interesting transitioning Sportsboy into Fall and Winter clothing. I finally got him used to not being able to wear shorts and his flip-flops (although he may wear them a few more times when he attends Tae Kwon Do). Although, Sportsboy is getting better in wearing long sleeve shirts, I am still having a hard time getting him to wear a jacket when he goes outside. He still doesn't think it is too cold to wear a jacket yet.

How do I explain to him it may not be too cold to wear a jacket, but it is one way from getting sick. I don't think he would really care at this age. lol

By the time Sportsboy is used to wearing Fall and Winter clothing, then it will be Spring, where the next transition of clothing will begin...

A Day At Pumpkin Patch

I know, Baby Princess is only 5 months old and already we are going to the pumpkin patch. Geeky Dad just rolls his eyes and says 'You say this is for Baby, but it is really for you.' Well he is half right. This is really for him. Geeky Dad grew up with not a lot of family traditions. So he doesn't seem to value us starting our own traditions. But I'm determined to allow him to experience, through Baby, seasonal, fun family traditions now.

Once we arrive at the pumpkin patch, on a beautiful sunny afternoon, Baby seems a bit surprised. She has a worried look on her face; I'm sure wondering what the heck is going on. The bustling environment might be a bit much for Baby so we'll make this quick. I want my pictures for the memories and we are out of here.

We picked out three pumpkins: a large pumpkin representing Geeky Dad, a medium size pumpkin representing mom (me) and a small pumpkin representing Baby. We took our pictures and headed home. We were in and out in 30 minutes. Check! Fall pictures taken.

At home on our front stoop, we set out the set of pumpkins representing our family!

As busy as were are, I am determined to get our family time in, and create memories that last a life time. Must get those field trips in, and must get those pictures taken. Quantity time is extremely important, but quality time is where the memories are remembered.

Weekend at Mama and Papa's

A-dog is spending the weekend at Mama and Papa's this weekend. She loves it there and since they lived with me for a year they have a very special bond. I feel lucky that I have this opportunity so I like to take advantage of it when I can. They live a hour away so it is always a bit of shuffling around to get her up there but worth it. I always miss her but it is nice knowing that I can sleep in tomorrow morning.
The one thing that she finds hard at the grandparent's house is staying on her scheldule. She has a set nightime, nap and eating times. I like to keep these as much as possible because it makes both of our lives better when she is home. So trying to get all parties on the same path is a little hard sometimes. So Monday will be spent working things out at home but all worth it for a little peace and quiet.:)

Picking up the Fundraising Items

Today, Sportsboy came home with fundraising items from Great School. What's interesting about this is that I didn't ask any of my friends or colleagues to order from fundraiser because I feel this will come later once Sportsboy shows an interests and understands fully what is going on.

Mom friends and I were talking about how later everything will "catch" up to us, meaning eventually my friends and colleagues will be asked to order items for school; eventually, birthday parties will be held at local establishments instead of homes or parks; and eventually brand name clothing may be sought. Point is make life easier for you the mom or caregiver.

What I realize as a mom of a school age child (boy do I sound old), that as your child gets older they need you more than ever. I don't mean for eating purposes, but you are on constantly teaching them about the world and pray that they will always be on the right track.

So, back to fundraising items, who did order from Sportsboy? Well, Hardworking Hubby and I, and my siblings. Next year may be different...

Extend Your Magazines' Life

Just a tip I thought I would share of what to do with your old magazines once you are finished with them.

Contact your child's teacher (or if you don't have a child, contact a local school or daycare) and find out if he or she would be interested in using old magazines for arts, crafts and other types of projects. Not only is this a great way to de-clutter your home, help the Earth a bit, but you also are playing a role in a child's education, especially yours.

I emailed Sportsboy's teacher and asked her that, she replied that she would like some.

Today, I dropped off a batch, and she told me she would let me know when she wants more.

Now, maybe I will call the daycare next...

Lost Without My Laptop

I couldn't believe it. I tried again and again and again to make it work. However, it did not work. I couldn't wait til Hardworking Hubby called on his break from work to tell him. Even Sportsboy asked me what I was baffled about.

My laptop would not charge because something is wrong with the electrical cord. For some odd reason, currents were not sent to the laptop via the electrical cord. Agh. Now, my laptop is completely dead.

So when Hardworking Hubby called, I told him about my laptop. He said to me, it actually was like that last night. Arr...if it was, then how come he didn't tell me today, so I wouldn't take it to my parents' house. A dead laptop is useless, especially at someone else's home.

I asked Hardworking Hubby to get online tonight and order an electrical plug. He said he would do it. Now, I am hoping he will really do it tonight and not procrastinate. See practically my life's work is on that laptop. I have my thesis on there and some of the writing projects(however, thank God it is saved on my flash drive and emails--I know it is a little obsessive, but if that is the only thing I learned in college is to constantly save, save, save everywhere).

I even had to write this post from my desktop and not laptop. You know how awkward that is? I am so used to sitting on the couch or floor and working from the laptop. I have worked from the desktop when I was taking college courses, um...let's see I think it was like three years ago.

Wish me luck as I try to get by without my laptop.

For All You Coffee Lovers Out There!

Here is a complimentary cappuccino from Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/email/nav.asp?r=1&PID=24816.


You're welcome.

End of Soccer Game of the Season

I didn't have a chance to post yesterday, so I will post today. Sportsboy finished his final soccer game of the season which meant that I finished coaching for the season. The soccer teams and games were through AYSO , a nation-wide organization run by volunteers, yes VOLUNTEERS.

I am not getting paid or given credit to write a review about AYSO; I just want to write a review about my experience as a coach for my son's soccer team. I have never coached a sports' team, however, I did work with children many times. I am not sure if this was beginner's luck or what, but the parents were extremely supportive, most of the children were AWESOME soccer players, for preschool and kindergarten level.

Although, we aren't supposed to keep scores, our team won big time overall. We might have tied with one or two teams. We played about 10 games.

The key with coaching youngsters (I mean preschoolers and Kinders) is that they must have structure and activities shouldn't last longer than 10 minutes. It is OK to repeat an activity after you have done a new activity. There was also lots of encouragement and high fives. No negative remarks were allowed by coaches and parents.

You know what else I found amazing, was the fact it did not cost much to join. I mean it can be expensive if you have four or five kids, sure. I payed $40 for 11 or 12 weeks, I believe. The extra $20 was a value card that offers discounts and savings from local businesses. This is what I got for this amount: 1. value card, 2. one practice per week for 12 weeks. 3. one game per Saturday 4. 1 complete uniform--t-shirt, shorts and socks. 5. medal 6. certificate. Plus coaches did whatever else extra they wanted to, but not required.My co-coach (sister) and I took them to a pizza place for some pizza.

Another extra benefit that I got was being close to some of the kids on my team. Parents asked me if they could stay together for next year, I told them I was they could but I am not the one who put the teams together. My team members played really well (I hope next year and the years after are the same).

Would I coach again? You bet. I even offered to help put teams together for next year. I loved to help be a part of the kids being more active. I also love to show them the world of soccer because I love soccer (although I am not an expert player). I also am honored to be a part of teaching them sportsmanship, how we cheer everybody on despite our weaknesses.

Yes, I spent more time with my son and I helped teach new skills to him and his teammates. The true lesson is that I challenged myself to another level of being a volunteer coach for a national organization that influences thousands of children every year.

Library Halloween Fun

We took our dd to the Halloween celebration at the library today. We had lots of fun and met up with some of our friends. She was a very cute ladybug and she kept on her costume for the whole evening. I was very surprised at this. The library did a good job of activities they had a craft activity, a cute picture frame craft, snacks, pictures and tattoos. There was lots of people there for such a small town. The town is defiantly a far cry from St Louis where i had spent seven years in before I moved here. I enjoy the small town life even if we just have a very small Walmart and a Aldi's for a grocery store that is if you don't want to spend an arm and a leg for groceries.
Back to the library, I really enjoy going to the library and I feel it is a great experience for children. I remember going as a kid and coming out with arm loads of books it was like a candy store to us. I hope to instill a great love of reading in A-dog. Reading is such a great way to learn things and it really can open doors. You can get anything at the library unfortunately our library is small so we do not have a music or video section. But you can request anything from other libraries and we also have a great big group of libraries that cooperate with each other and you can check out things from all of them. You can save so much with going to the library because you can get anything from the classics, to magazines, dvds, audiobooks, and cds all FREE. So go to the library today!!!!!! Go READ!!!!

Took Son to the Park

This morning I was telling Sportsboy to get ready, so we can go to the Park. he asked me who was going to be there. I told him some of his friends would be there. He was excited.

It was fun. We meet thumpr and a-dog, as well as another parent and her triplets, that I affectionately call "Kiddies." Ok, I call a lot of kids, kiddies. It was nice to see them because it has probably been a year or close to it. It was also neat to see how the triplets have grown as well.

Not only is it important for kids to play with each other, but it is also important for parents to get to know other parents because we can potentially become friends, sharing many experiences especially with our children. Don't get me wrong. It is still important to have some grownup time.

Thumpr, the triplets' mom and I agreed to take the kids to the pumpkin patch and apple orchard next week. That should be exciting and fun!

Soccer Pizza Party, Early Dismissal, and No School Oh My!

Tonight is the last practice night for the soccer team that Li'l Sis and I coach. The day was rainy and chilly--it was either cancel practice or celebrating the end of the season, we chose the second one.

After work, I called the parents of our team and told them that we would be meeting at the pizza place to celebrate before our last and final game this Saturday 10 a.m. Although, we don't keep official scoring, our team has won big time. Li'l Sis and I were blessed with an excellent team. Not bad for first year coaches.

About 3 parents and their children showed up for pizza. One boy was sick at home, and the girl was at her uncle's house. It was nice overall. We chitchatted about children, siblings and schooling.

Creating this type of activity will always be in the memories of not only ourselves, but children as well.

Early Dismissal
Guess what? Sportsboy has early dismissal again tomorrow due to parent-teacher conferences. Just one week ago, he had early dismissal. Turns out that he will have at least once per month early dismissal. I don't ever remember having that many as a child in public schools.

No School
There is no school on Friday because of parent-teacher conferences...Sportsboy didn't have school last Friday and Monday. (Ok fine, Monday was Christopher Columbus Day--since when did schools take off for that holiday?)

I am not sure if all these days are necessary or what, I mean the world is becoming more global, do we really want our children to have less schooling than other nations, and I am talking about developed nations as well!

A family weekend

This weekend was spent with family. My sister and her husband were in from Purdue for a couple days. A-dog my dear daughter loves being at Mama and Papa's house she had started talking about them and visiting them a couple days before Saturday. Her memory and language has really taken off lately. I love watching her grow and interact with others. We enjoyed a nice potluck and a hayride on Saturday. The funny thing with the hayride was that I thought it was something that would last only about 2o minutes but it was something like a hour, so I didn't wear a coat or put a-dog in one but luckily she was in a long sleeves. The hayride was way out in the country by where my parents live and sometimes you would go down in the hollow and it would be so cold but she had fun that is what is important. It is amazing what you will do for your children. You will endure many things and stay in many situations if your children are enjoying it.
On Sunday we spent doing something I had never done before and don't really care to repeat but if the opportunity arises I will probably do again. We processed some deer meat that someone had got with a bow by one of my mom's friends. We had to cut it off the bone, the fat off and cut into steaks or grid into ground meat. We were able to process it and then my mom's friend took what he wanted then we will take the rest. This is a good opportunity because we will not have to pay for the meat, just our time. It was quite gross but something that I viewed as something we had to do. It is saved us some money and it was something new. Hey why not try to something new at least once!

Product Review: Smucker's Uncrustables Sandwiches

As a Bzz Agent, I am privileged to try different products and submit my honest opinions to the site. I was selected to try Smucker's Uncrustables PB&J sandwiches which Sportsboy and I tried today. After I finished working out, I walked right next door to our local grocery store and redeemed the coupon to pick up Smucker's Uncrustables PB&J sandwiches. They were located in the freezer section.

My workout buddies saw me walking by and motioned for me to come over with the bag. They asked what was in the bag, I told them "Smucker's Uncrustables". I explained to them that I am a Bzz Agent and I am supposed to try this product and review it. They were impressed that they were asking how could they be product testers. I told them that I would tell them how sometime this week, but for today, I will give them Smucker's coupon.

Three women gladly accepted the offer. They said that they were going to buy this product for the children and grandchildren.

After school, I asked Sportsboy if he was hungry. He said he was, then I gave him a thawed-out Smucker's Uncrustables Sandwich (you have thaw out the sandwiches). He LOVED it. He said, "Mommy, this sandwich is cool." I asked him why. He said that because the sandwich is round and there is "a lot of peanut butter and jelly which I love." I also ate one as well. What I liked about the sandwich is that it was STILL moist when it is thawed and there is a generous amount of peanut butter and jelly inside the sandwich. It was also cute to see how the sandwich is round and crust free.

The only negative thing I can see is that Smucker's Uncrustables are only sold in four per package.

Due to religious dietary restrictions, I did call the company to find out if any animal products were part of the ingredients, and they said that to their knowledge everything is vegetable based. That is a great because now everybody can have Smucker's!

Turned Out to Be Hives

I was describing the symptoms of Sportsboy and Hardworking Hubby to my exercise buddies, and they then told me from the sounds of it, they had hives--due to being allergic to something. That made me feel better because I didn't want Sportsboy to miss a number of days of school.

I was also relieved throughout the day because Sportsboy's school did not call me to pick him up. That made me feel a bit more at ease.

Thumpr, a blogger and friend, saw Sportsboy tonight as we went out for a fitness walk, and agreed that it looked like hives. (Thanks Thumpr for the reassurance!)

Umm..I don't think it is Chicken Pox

Well, today Sportsboy's spots were no longer visible on his arms, except a few ones. No new ones popped up. Thank God for that. I am hoping the spots will completely go away in the next couple of days. I don't want any surprises.

He totally acted like himself today, so I figured it was probably one of the three things: 1. Either the extremely light case of Chicken Pox (Sportsboy was vaccinated for this) 2. 24 hour viral infection (some mothers told me it has happened with their children) or 3. an allergic reaction that Sportsboy had when he was outside playing.

Hardworking Hubby remembers that Sportsboy was playing by some trees where he normally doesn't. The funny thing is that Hardworking Hubby also received the same bumps on his arms. Hmmm...is it coincidental? Not sure.

I will keep everyone posted as I know more each day.

Is it Chicken Pox? Or Not?

As Sportsboy and I were getting ready for Weekend School, I noticed what seemed like a couple of bites on Sportsboy's face. I thought it was just some bug bites, so I didn't think anything of it.

At Weekend School, Sportsboy and I were walking towards his class when I noticed his arms. They were covered with "bites"! I was shocked, kind of confused. I thought to myself those look like chicken pox. I wasn't sure, so I asked another mother passing by and she looked at Sportsboy's arms (poor Sportsboy being looked at as if he was a freak show), she thought it looked like chicken pox, but then maybe it was some kind of allergic reaction to something. We asked another parent, he thought the same thing.

Because I wasn't sure if it was or wasn't chicken pox, I decided to take Sportsboy home with the knowledge of the Weekend School principal. Sportsboy didn't scratch a lot, like I thought he would.

Hardworking Hubby was surprised to see Sportsboy and I home so early. I showed Hardworking Hubby Sportsboy's face and arms and explained to him those might be chicken pox.

To play it safe, we stayed home today (although it was a very nice day), so Sportsboy couldn't give it to anybody. He drank lots of liquids. He didn't scratch a lot either. As the day went by, the spots on Sportsboy seemed to lessen (I'm serious). So, now Hardworking Hubby and I think it may have been an allergic reaction to something, not sure what.

Who knows. Tomorrow will tell if it is chicken pox or not. If more spots appear, then I will assume it is chicken pox and take him to the doctor to verify.

Who know trying to figure it if your child had chickenpox would be so complicated?

A Bit About Myself

I am a mother to a beautiful four month old baby girl whom I will refer to as Baby Princess for several reasons. I am also a loving wife to my best friend whom I'll refer to as Geeky Dad. As my name depicts, I am a working mom in a highly competitive industry. My goal is to maintain this work-life balance, a challenge that takes great effort everyday. It is a delicate balance that often needs to be flexible enough not to break. You will learn more about my family, me and all the opportunities and challenges that being a corporate mom entails. I welcome your input/feedback; there is definitely comfort in numbers.

Oh No He Didn't

He did. Sportsboy threw a fit on the soccer field during the soccer game. I was kind of shocked because I didn't expect him to be like that on the field while playing a game. I mean Sportsboy is five-years-old, I thought he was passed the temper tantrum stages. Apparently not. I thought, hmmm...ironically the coach's son is being a 'poor sport'.

What happened was during First Quarter, Sportsboy was supposed to start the kick, but instead his teammate Sportsgirl kicked instead which upset Sportsboy.

So he didn't bother to try his best while playing. I was yelling at him from the field to get in the game. He didn't. As soon as First Quarter was over, I pulled Sportsboy out of the game and put one of his teammates in place of him, Day Dreamer who played pretty well actually. While Sportsboy was sitting out, Hard Working Hubby talked with Sportsboy.

By Third Quarter, Sportsboy was ready to play. He was in a better mood--like he never threw a temper tantrum on the field. Our team played well that one of the parents from the other team said to one of my parents that our kids are excellent and aggressive.

You gotta love kids and their surprises.

Me in a nutshell

So this is my first real blog so this is my intro. I am a stay at mom to a wonderful two year old which is what something that I always wanted to do. I have always felt like I wanted to be her first teacher. Since I was a teacher, I did not want to spend my time teaching and raising other people's children. I wanted to raise my own. So I have been at home for a year now and I have watched her take her first steps, say her first phrase and have introduced her to her first friends. I love being a mom and for now that is my focus.
As part of staying at home I believe that I should stretch my dollar as far as I can. So I am mildly frugal which involves coupons, shopping thrifty, and cooking at home, among other things. I also enjoy reading, quilting, crafts, and outdoor recreation. I have been married to a great guy for ten years now, who is a economics professor at the local university. Boy does he have a lot of things to say now!
In this blog, I would like to share my ideas about how to save money, being a mom, life and basically what is on my mind that day. I thank you for taking the time to read my blog.
I hope that I will be able to hold my own compared to my more experienced co-author but maybe she will help to write better because it was not one of my strong suits in school. But I am always looking for a challenge.

Parent-Teacher Conference

Last night, I had my first parent-teacher conference at Sportsboy's elementary school, Great School. I was kind of nervous because you don't know what kind of report that you may get about your child from the Teacher.

I told myself, hey you are an educator yourself--you know how the education system works--toughen up. Basically, I mentally prepared myself.

The Teacher said that she loves having Sportsboy in her class. Although one of the youngest students, Sportsboy is doing better than some of her students, she told me. I was relieved to hear that she liked my son! She enjoyed having him in her class.

That was great news. I could tell Hardworking Husband the good news because he works second shift, so I like to keep him updated on Sportsboy.

I did tell the Teacher that I will be working with Sportsboy on alphabetic sounds and sequencing numbers. She said that would be great. I do believe that parents should work with their children at home, and not leave everything up to the schools. We need to re enforce what the schools want our children to know.

I am not saying that we must wait for the school's approval of knowledge. By all means, learn extra things, however, while that is happening, re enforce the school's studies as well.

Sportsboy's Story of the Treehouse

Sportsboy wanted to share the story with everyone. I am always for the arts.

Two Minutes Late to School

I could not believe it as I suddenly woke up and looked at the time and saw that it was 7:53 a.m., Sportsboy had overslept as well. I woke him up quickly and tried to get him ready within 15 minutes, so we can still be at school by 8:25 a.m.--It didn't work.

Here's why: I (Sportsboy's mommy) forgets that Sportsboy likes to take his time and that he needs advance notice in preparation. I am rushing while he is arguing with his sleepy dad on why he needs to wear certain types of shoes, even though he has a hard time putting them on. I threatened to go "leave" without him. He hurries a little--still not enough.

Finally, after convincing him to wear the other types of shoes, he wears the other shoes (only if he did that from the beginning). We rush to the car, we buckle our seat belts and off I drive.

As we got to Sportsboy's school, he sees that no one is outside and shows concern because this will be (and hopefully) the last time he will be late. I hold my five year old's hand as we walk into the office together. The secretary (love her, she is always smiling) gives him a pass and I tell Sportsboy to give this to his teacher.

Yet, he wants to know why, and I tell him just do it. I just want him to understand that sometimes, we can't ask questions until later.

So, that was my morning. And that was the first time that I took Sportsboy to school tardy. I dislike being late or tardy.

Lesson learned: Put two alarm clocks on because one of them has been kinda moody lately.

Lost old Posts

Hi readers,

Just letting you know that when I uploaded the background for Learning Moments of Mom, I lost all my posts. That is ok. I have added a writing partner in crime as well, so it is worth it. I wanted to make it nice and pretty for my writing partner as well.