Diary of a Drama Queen Working Mom to John & Gianna

Proud of my baby girl...

2011-10-12T12:55:00.001-04:00

Sometimes I think I have too much passion (is that possible?)

2011-06-28T16:58:00.000-04:00

“The saddest people I’ve ever met in life are the ones who don’t care deeply about anything at all. Passion and satisfaction go hand in hand, and without them, any happiness is only temporary, because there’s nothing to make it last.” ~Nicholas Sparks

Time flies...

2011-06-17T11:36:00.000-04:00

I was just backing up pictures from my phone. You see it's about the time I start contemplating a new phone. My cell phones don't seem to last a full 2 years. Weird? I think phone companies do that on purpose. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy the "new" and more "advanced" technology as much as the next girl. However, I don't enjoy shelling out the $200! I mean, who the heck does?!?!

Back to the point...It was amazing to see how much my kids have grown in the last year and a half. How much we have progressed in our lives as well. As I was backing up the pictures, I had so many thoughts running through my mind. I had them all ready to post on here and now my gorgeous 4 year old wants to practice writing my name.

When you thought I wasn't looking..

2011-04-02T16:18:00.000-04:00

When you thought I wasn’t looking

You hung my first painting on the refrigerator

And I wanted to paint another.

When you thought I wasn’t looking

You fed a stray cat

And I thought it was good to be kind to animals.

When you thought I wasn’t looking

You baked a birthday cake just for me

And I knew that little things were special things.

When you thought I wasn’t looking

You said a prayer

And I believed there was a God that I could always talk to.

When you thought I wasn’t looking

You kissed me good-night

And I felt loved.

When you thought I wasn’t looking

I saw tears come from your eyes

And I learned that sometimes things hurt—

But that it’s alright to cry.

When you thought I wasn’t looking

You smiled

And it made me want to look that pretty too.

When you thought I wasn’t looking

You cared

And I wanted to be everything I could be.

When you thought I wasn’t looking—

I looked . . .

And wanted to say thanks

For all those things you did

When you thought I wasn’t looking.

______________________________

(thank you Jane Stewart for sharing this poem)

Loss of a loved one...

2011-02-21T21:47:00.000-05:00

I created this blog a few years back with the hopes of getting back into my number one passion..writing.

I, however, can't keep up with this. Everyday life is just to hectic to just sit, think and type everyday. I sometimes wonder how some people do it.

Tonight I sit here with so many thoughts. The biggest one tonight is death. It's an inevitable part of life. I, unfoturnately, have had to deal with the loss of a loved one already. I lost my grandfather, who loved me more than life itself, when I was a mere 17 years old. Was it hard? Yes. But, it was easier to deal with because he had lived his life and he was old.

The second time was nothing like that. You see I lost my brother when I was 20. He was about to turn 3. The biggest but best oops my parents ever had. He brought a great light and balance to our home. He was, apart from my dad, the only male after 3 girls. 15 years after his death I find myself still grieving him. I grieve him because it wasn't fair. There are so many firsts he never got to experience.

Why am I writing about this tonight? I had to go to a funeral today for someone that was dear to my family. The thing is it was at the same funeral home and cemetery my brother is at. 15 years later, those corridors didn't look so empty. The people's voices weren't just echos in my mind as I walked by and into where the casket was. That night, 15 years ago, was a blur for me. Today, I saw the color of the walls. The hurt everyone felt in the room. I saw it all. That night 15 years ago, I only see the pain my immediate family felt. But there was something else. You see, there was a visitor that was taken care of by this family along with my brother. He and my brother were a mere 3 years apart. Regardless, this now young man, always played with my brother and treated him with love. It pained me to see him tonight so much. I will never know what my brother would've looked like, what his aspirations would be, meet his new girl friend as I met this young man's tonight or ever get to hug him again.

I take myself out of that funeral home and the last two memories I have of my brother are the following:
Holding him in the ICU as he took his last breaths the night before he passed and 2 weeks earlier (before the accident that would steal him from our lives forever) crying at the front door because I was going out and wasn't taking him. I regret not having stayed home with him that night...

They say time is supposed to heal. I am not saying you don't heal, but I would call it accepting more than healing. My family has never been the same. We have accepted my brother's death, but I don't think we will ever fully heal.

Missing Summer...

2010-12-22T14:48:00.000-05:00

When you visit a place like this annually can you wonder why?

30 Day Blog Challenge - Day 5 - 17

2010-10-19T20:24:00.000-04:00

Ok, so I am a failure at keeping up with this! I am going to take stab at doing the last two weeks I've missed right now in one sitting.

Day 5 - your favorite quote

"I, not events, have the power to make me happy or unhappy today. I can choose which it shall be. Yesterday is dead, tomorrow hasn't arrived yet. I have just one day, today, and I'm going to be happy in it." ~ Groucho Marx

I try to remind myself of this daily. I am one of those people that lets the little things get to me, so this is an ideal quote to recite over and over in my head daily!!!

Day 6 - 20 of my favorite things (not in any order at all)

My Cameras
My iphone
clean sheets
shaved legs
smiles on my childrens' faces
cuddling with those I love most
the beach
magazines
shopping
hugs and kisses from my kids
grateful students
scrapbooking
books
organized closets
swimming
believing in magic and the power of love
visiting NYC
seeing the numbers on the scale go down
days my husband comes back from long trips
My dog "Broadway"

Day 7 - a photo that makes you happy - I absolutely love SUMMER! This picture embodies our happiness on our Summer trips. This pic was taken this past August in mountains of Madrid, Spain!

Day 8 - a photo that makes you angry/sad - I don't usually take pictures at sad moments, but if I had to pick one it would be whenever my kids are sick. I wish I could take the pain away. I would be willing to face the pain for them!

Day 9 - a photo you took

Sunset at Marco Island this past summer...we took a "couple's retreat" and this was my first weekend using my new toy!!!

Day 10 - a photo taken over 10 years ago of you

Senior year in high school...way over 10 years...Circa 1995

Day 11 - a photo of you recently

Taken at a Halloween party last night...

Day 12 - something you are OCD about

Can you say everything?? I am so obsessive it's disgusting. I exude perfection constantly. Is this a good quality? Yes and No! I sometimes go overboard or come down on myself way too hard with things aren't perfect. That's when it becomes a problem.

things that top my list:

1 - house cleanliness
2 - my kids and their schooling
3 - my job
4 - maintaining my body
and the list goes on and on.

It's funny because a friend called me in the middle of writing this and she and I are very much alike with our obsessiveness. She was telling me how she can't start something and not give it 110%. I can so relate to that.
Day 13 - a fictional book

Right now, I am going with the whole vampire trend. I've read the Twilight Series, I am currently wrapping up the True Blood series by Charlaine Harris, and already have another set on stand-by. I can't remember the name this instant, but will post about it as soon as I get up and check.

Day 14 - a non-fictional book

I love reading self-help books.

Day 15 - your dream house

5 bedrooms, split floor plan, 1 story, huge yard with a pool, covered terrace and a bar. Completely decorated by Pottery Barn...ahhh BLISS!

Day 16 - a song that makes you cry (or nearly)

Lately, Taylor Swift's "The Best Day" - I love that a young girl isn't too proud to thank her parents for everything and that her best days have been with them! love it!!

Day 17 - an art piece (drawing, sculpture, painting, etc)
I don't have a favorite! I appreciate all art. I am going to be curt with this one because I need to dig a little deep to really answer it.

Blog Challenge Day 4 - your favorite book

2010-09-27T18:02:00.000-04:00

Ahhh.....another tough one! I am an English teacher for Pete's sake! LOL

I guess I could say the Twilight series currently, but my all time favorite childhood book is "To Kill A Mockingbird"

Blog Challenge Day 3 - your favorite television program

2010-09-26T17:58:00.009-04:00

Now, this is a tough one because I have a bunch!!! YIKES!!!

Sex in the City (tops my list)
Grey's Anatomy
The Sopranos
True Blood
Entourage
Hung

Blog Challenge: Day 2 - your favorite movie

2010-09-25T14:50:00.001-04:00

I am going to have to go with Pretty Woman. What can I say? I am a fairy-tale kind of girl.

Blog Challenge: Day 1 - Favorite Song

2010-09-24T21:24:00.000-04:00

Favorite song: I would have to go with Taylor Swift all the way. I don't know what it is about her songs. I can relate to almost all of them.

My top 3 faves (no, it isn't just one):
1. You Belong with Me
2. Love Story
3. Teardrops on my Guitar

I don't know if it's that I can relate to the lyrics or if they take me back to my youth. A lot of her songs describe some of the very things I felt at her age and love that about her. I love that her songs are straight out of her own diary.

30 Day Blog Challenge

2010-09-24T21:20:00.000-04:00

Ok, so one of by blogging mamas is doing this on her own blog Mama Belly Blog. I thought it might help me make it a habit of getting on here and actually doing it. I actually find Bridget super inspiring. I am not a photographer by trade, but wish I could be one. If you want to see some cool pics, make sure you visit her blog.

I am starting today!

Day 1 - your favorite song

Day 2 - your favorite movie

Day 3 - your favorite television program

Day 4 - your favorite book

Day 5 - your favorite quote

Day 6 - 20 of my favorite things

Day 7 - a photo that makes you happy

Day 8 - a photo that makes you angry/sad

Day 9 - a photo you took

Day 10 - a photo taken over 10 years ago of you

Day 11 - a photo of you recently

Day 12 - something you are OCD about

Day 13 - a fictional book

Day 14 - a non-fictional book

Day 15 - your dream house

Day 16 - a song that makes you cry (or nearly)

Day 17 - an art piece (drawing, sculpture, painting, etc)

Day 18 - my wedding/future wedding/past wedding

Day 19 - a talent of yours

Day 20 - a hobby of yours

Day 21 - a recipe

Day 22 - a website

Day 23 - a youtube video

Day 24 - where I live

Day 25 - your day, in great detail

Day 26 - your week, in great detail

Day 27 - my worst habit

Day 28 - what's in my handbag/purse

Day 29 - hopes,dreams and plans for the next 365 days

Day 30 - a dream for the future

Thoughts...

2010-09-24T21:08:00.000-04:00

Judging by my previous post, is there any wonder why I would be missing summer? LOL. I mean, I was around the world. I had my entire family with me and work wasn't even a thought yet.

It's been a month since we've been back. OH WHAT A MONTH!!! Somethings never change. We are back in the swing of things. I am back at work. I really don't have any complaints that are worth writing about. If that even makes sense.

Both kids are in school now. Jr. is struggling with self-control at school, but seems to have gotten a handle on it this week. Gigi seems completely adjusted to pre-school. The other day she even told me that she "loved" her school. John is off and traveling once again. Is it weird that every year around this time I have the same empty feeling?

Will this "seasonal" loneliness ever just cease to exist for me?

I have so many gorgeous pictures to post and write about. It's funny the pictures are a lot like what I have bottled up inside. I want to share them, but can't find the time or effort within me to do so.

Where I've been...

2010-09-24T21:01:00.000-04:00

I've been snorkeling the Caribbean (Bimini, Bahamas)

Chasing Liberty in NYC

Visiting Palaces (Madrid, Spain)

Mountain tops of Madrid

Visited The Acropolis (Athens, Greece)

And the Parthenon!

All this in one month...August!

Does anyone read this?

2010-07-25T20:10:00.003-04:00

I mean, I was watching a movie today and it was about blogging. Who actually reads this? Comment. Tell me what you think.

You see, I am a frustrated writer trapped in the body of a teacher, wife and mother. I use this as my outlet. My original dream was to write for some fancy network, but my family dream outweighed my career dream.

I know I am not the most interesting thing out there, but why do you read my blog? Is there anyone that does? I feel like the girl in the movie...just putting thoughts out into cyberspace that never get read or thought about.

2010-07-25T20:04:00.002-04:00

I miss him so...

I hate when he travels and that his job requires so much of it. It's been 7 long days. The effects of the week are finally on me. I am grumpy, emotional and just an utter mess. Imagine if I were working?

Is it weird that he is my scaffold? He holds me together. He knows me. Understands me. Goes out of his way for me. He tries so hard to make me happy and sometimes I can be so flippant about it. So sad it takes a week for me to realize all this. I mean, don't get me wrong. I know I am one of the few lucky women married to a GREAT man. He is all about us, his family and I am so grateful for that.

I guess what I am trying to say is that I don't function the same without him. I am looking forward to our 3 weeks of travels coming up. Can't wait to make some more unforgettable memories with the love of my life and our two blessings!

2010-07-20T18:10:00.003-04:00

My gorgeous son caught by our photographer being himself.

You see, he's just 6 years old, but looks like an 8 year old. He is into Star Wars, building things with his legos and drawing. Recently, he has gotten into sports. He played baseball all of last school year, but gets real down about not being perfect at something and losing (guess he's a sore loser like mommy and daddy, LOL). After 9months of baseball three times a week, we gave him a break. Now, he's the one asking to throw the ball around, practice batting and whatnot.

This little boy is the light my life needed 7 years ago. Finding out I was pregnant with him has been one of the best things I've experienced. He is so full of love. He comes out of his room just to give me a quick kiss and tell me he loves me. It melts my heart every time.

Let's talk about his gorgeous dimples. They could make the strongest woman weak in the knees. He's lost 8 teeth already. He's got the cutest gap between his front teeth.

Don't get me wrong, he has his wild side. However, I ADORE him just the way he is. He is obsessive about routine, not wearing buttons, and must always do things the same way. He doesn't adjust well to change, but he gets that from his mommy. It couldn't all be good.

He makes motherhood fun. He's rough, tough and just loves having fun. I thank the Lord everyday for my exuberant, rambunctious boy...John Daniel!

Magazine Junkie...

2010-07-12T09:19:00.003-04:00

I consider myself a magazine junkie. I love them ALL! The days or moments are very seldom when I resist buying on in the grocery aisle. I subscribe to two, but I would totally get more if I had the time to read them all.

I love reading everything. I subscribe to SELF and Scrapbooks,etc. Love them both. I do, however, have one problem. Last night was reading Marie Claire's latest edition (Taylor Swift on cover) and they had some super cute clothes in there. There was on problem, I can't afford any of it!!! Can anyone? I mean a sundress for $584?? What world are these people living in? Is it the same economy as the rest of us? I think NOT!!

I think I would enjoy these magazines even more if I could afford at least half the things they are suggesting or adverstising.

What are your thought on this issue?

They say that pets and their owners....

2010-07-02T15:07:00.003-04:00

start to look like eachother after a couple of years.

This is my Broadway. He's been mine for the last 10 years. Yes, 10! I can't believe it myself. He was a college graduation gift and the best I've ever gotten. He's been my faithful companion ever since.

Broadway is so special to me. You see, I am not a pet person at all. I wouldn't harm a dog or let anyone do it in front of me, but they are just not my cup of tea. It could have something to do with my allergies or just me in general. He captured my heart that first day at the pet shop where I picked him out. He's MY first dog! The thought of losing him brings me to uncontrollable tears. You see, he's my buddy. If I sit and watch TV, he finds a spot next to me. When John is out of town I sneak him up on the bed with me. We survived Florida's winter giving eachother warmth in the middle of the night. He follows me wherever I go. I would venture to say he is my first "baby".

Here is my pooch. The day I brought him home he was the size of an adult male hand (can't say mine because my hands are tiny) and now he weighs in at a whopping 5.5 lbs. LOL! I adore my sweet Broadway. My kids LOVE Broadway and he loves them in return.

Marco Island, FL - Couples Retreat

2010-06-30T09:38:00.004-04:00

Sunset on Marco Island was Amazing!

All of these were taken with my new toy...Canon Rebel T1i

We took an official vacation. Every year we get together with some of our adult friends and plan a vacation. It's nice in the sense that we (John and I) get to recooperate from the constant daily struggles with our kids. We had quiet car rides with ONLY adult conversations. Dinners were non-problematic.

As hectic as our kids make our lives, we wouldn't change a thing. We missed them like crazy. Funny thing is that we spent all weekend talking about them.

Movie Review (Spoiler Alert) - Remember Me

2010-06-26T09:31:00.000-04:00

"Gandhi said that whatever you do in life will be insignificant. But it's very important that you do it. I tend to agree with the first part." (said by Robert Pattinson's character, Tyler)

Something about that quote really moved me. I will get onto that later though.

The movie blew me away. There was some predictability, but the end knocked me off my feet!

I am not a big fan of Pattinson's, but he did a great job with this one. Don't get me wrong, I love Twilight. He just isn't who I envisioned for Edward Cullen at all.

I find amazing that the way we are raised play a big role in our capacity to love others or let others love us. This movie reflects this well.

If you are interested in a bittersweet romantic drama, this is a good one for you.

I hate that he finds his place in life so long after his brother's death and then loses his life himself. Especially after his father was finally realizing what should be his top priority.

Pictures with my new toy...

2010-06-22T09:14:00.004-04:00

I am loving the quality. Now, I have to find time to play with it. Any recommendations from camera enthusiasts out there? I got the Canon Rebel T1i..

I am having a hard time uploading photos.

got my new toy...

2010-06-21T09:41:00.002-04:00

some updated pics...

2010-06-17T19:04:00.003-04:00

The only way to do Summer in Miami is in the water!!!

Scrapbooking...

2010-06-17T18:58:00.002-04:00

is at the top of my list for hobbies,but for past few months I've been itching to try out photography. I feel it could be yet another outlet for me with possibility for growth.

First, I need a NICE camera with a hefty price tag. I don't want it to have a HEFTY price tag, but after some research, I have found it's the only way.

Costco has a great deal going. But I have my doubts. Am I rushing into this? I've been thinking about it for the last 6+ months. I will have to self-teach as I don't have time for classes, etc..

Will keep you updated on my final decision.

Books

2010-06-16T22:57:00.002-04:00

Right now I have 3 books ony nightstand. I love to read. Recently, a few of my students asked what I liked about it so much. That got me thinking. They hate to read because they never get to pick their own "poison" per say. I mean, I require they read certain books through put school year, but most of them don't bother to go beyond that. So, what do I enjoy?? Living vicariously through the characters in my books. No matter what I'm reading about. My life could always use a little more romance. It's also nice to read about other's drama instead of laying awake thinking of my own. So, there it is. They are my escape from reality. Right now I am reading about the supernatural world through Charlaine harris's eyes and about how it all started for Carrie Bradshaw In the carrie diaries. What's on your nightstand??

So long...

2010-06-16T22:55:00.001-04:00

Ago since I posted. Trying to be regular is so hard. I miss it. Right now I'm updating on my phone. Why?? Tooany thoughts crowding my little head. I use this as my mental outlet. Seems I must be pretty overloaded it's been so long. Stay tuned...

Jesus is the Reason for the Season

2009-12-22T19:44:00.003-05:00

I respect everyone's beliefs, religions and opinions. This post is hardly meant to insult anyone. I am actually quite guilty of doing what I am about to post.

This weekend I had the pleasure of visiting the "City that Never Sleeps" (NYC). I've been there a ton of times. The point of the trip was to meet up with my husband while he was working there and do some "light" sightseeing. Well, amongst the siteseeing was attending mass at St. Patrick's Cathedral on 5th Avenue. We've visited before, but never really attended a mass.

As you will note from the link, the architecture is amazing. I don't think we have a church this beautiful in Miami. It is truly breathtaking. Well, the priest that did the service made a good point about Christmas. He was commenting on how stressed he sees people during this time of year. Stressed about gifts, money, family parties, etc. Basically, on how we all lose sight of the true meaning of Christmas. We should be celebrating the birth of our savior Jesus Christ. The rest is all gravy.

As we were walking out, the sermon stuck with me. It's so true. I, for one, am extremely caught up in what I have left to buy, wrap and prepare that I forget the true meaning. I went ahead and bought the kids some prayer books to instill those beliefs in them. I also walked out with things in perspective.

I ran some errands today, amongst them, a last gift I had left to buy. The stores and groceries stores were packed. I took it in stride and reminded myself of what I was really celebrating.

So, the point of my post is. I know that we are all stressed. That it feels like it is impossible to finish everything by Friday. But, we can. We just need to have faith and remember what we are truly celebrating.

Pictures from Florangel

2009-12-21T19:52:00.001-05:00

Click here to view these pictures larger

Pictures from Florangel

2009-11-21T15:56:00.001-05:00

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What's your super power??

2009-11-07T20:12:00.004-05:00

I title this post that because I feel like I had a super power and it was my job to play hero and hand it over.

http://www.miamiherald.com/1374/story/1311679.html

If you read the article, you will know what I did. You see this inspiring young lady goes to the school I teach at. I decided I needed to help someone to so dedicated to helping others after her own experience.

So, I went and chopped off 6.5 inches of my hair and donated it to this tenacious young lady for Locks of Love.

I feel so good. Even if I hated the hair cut, which I don't, it was still worth it.

Here's the new do with a cause!

Latest Conversation with my 5 year old...

2009-11-02T20:15:00.001-05:00

John: "Mom, none of the other kids in my class know a song I love." Me: "What song John?" John: "Aruba, Jamaica, Oooh I want to take you" - So, my 5 year old loves Kokomo by the Beach Boys and my diverse Ipod is to blame. LMBO! My response, "John, tell the kids in your class that you are a cultured and tropical young man who is expanding his musical decades a lot deeper than they will ever go." John: "Ok, Mami. I will tell them tomorrow that I am way cooler than they are." I was LMAO!!!

Juggling Life

2009-10-27T18:30:00.002-04:00

How do we do it?

I mean, I know how we do it. But, I wonder how this became the norm. I have not rested since I woke up at 5am this morning.

It's always something!

The icing on the cake part of my day was my son's incredible plays at baseball today. WOW!! Is that what it is? Our kids' accomplishments bring us so much joy that we look past the madness everything else brings? I think so...

Tell me how you do it?

Humbling experience..

2009-10-25T15:55:00.003-04:00

Ever had an experience that has humbled you?

Well, dictionary.com defines it like this: to make meek: to humble one's heart. My heart has been very humbled.

Why? You may ask...

Well, my husband wasn't working for the last two months. Some specifics about his job that I would rather not discuss. Sometimes I feel like he works for the FBI. He doesn't, but all the restrictions on what can and can't be said make it feel that way.

So, how have I been humbled?

It seems I am always frowning upon his constant traveling and hardly ever getting to be around. Well, that constant traveling is what puts our kids through private school, puts food on our table, clothes on our backs and provides us with wonderful summer vacations without restrictions. So, this season, instead of moping around because I am working and raising two kids alone, I will hold my head up high and thank the good Lord that my family has a job that provides so much for us. I will stop looking at the glass half empty and more as half full.

We will miss you honey, but we know you are doing what is right for our family.

Pictures from Florangel: Pumpkin Patch 2009

2009-10-11T21:31:00.001-04:00

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Bimini Pics

2009-08-10T09:25:00.001-04:00

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Motivation...

2009-08-05T16:26:00.002-04:00

Ever find it hard to get motivated?

I am finding it hard these days. My personal life is perfect, but my professional life is in shambles. Yes, shambles! I am one of those moms that enjoys working. Sure I've considered becoming a Stay at home mom on occassion. It may be fun at first, but I would feel extremely awkward after a while. A happy medium to my hectic life would probably be a part-time job. Has anyone ever heard of a part-time teacher? Of course not, right?

Here's the scoop. My husband travels tons for work. 6 months of heavy-duty travel in the middle of my 9 month school schedule is hard on all of us. My 5 year old, my 2 year old, my husband and sometimes I feel like mostly ME! At my school they have arrangements to help me manage it all. (i.e. first period off so that I can drop off the kids and still get to school on time for my next class and the last period off every other day to help me with getting my "school work" done.) Well, last year's budget cuts took away that last period. It happened mid-year and it was rough, but I managed. John only had 2 months left of traveling and I made it through. I've always taught 8th grade and one of my personal goals has been to come closer to home. Right now, I work a 35 mile round trip to and from work. I went to my principal at the end of the school year and informed her, as an employee should, that I would be exploring opportunities closer to home and my kids during the day. She was so inappropriate about the whole thing. In a nutshell, she told me she didn't care if I came or went. That I am filled with scheduling drama anyway and that she does not feel like dealing with it anymore. Yes, she is a female and she did have children eons ago. I told her I would let her know in early July if I found something and that otherwise, I would be back.

I've gotten various phonecalls this summer from my dept. head. Basically, because of my honesty, I have been given more duties than I had before and she refuses to make any changes knowing my situation here at home. I will now teach two different grades, God knows how many levels and 6 periods of the day. The only thing that she did let me keep was 1st period off to drop off the kids.

So, not only won't I have the time to do my work at school, they are adding extra work for me to do. I don't get it. I wasn't threatening to leave. I was trying to be closer to my kids and home.

Usually, around this time, I go out and buy myself some inspiring new clothes, shoes and school supplies. I have absolutely not motivation to do any of it. I am upset, hurt and feel extremely betrayed. I am one those few employees that follows every rule and for some reason I can't do something, I come clean right away. I've been at my school 5 years now. My first class group is going into 11th grade. Is this all fair?

I guess I shouldn't wonder where my motivation has gone...I've basically just expressed and realized where it went. Down the tubes of dissatisfaction!

Pictures from Florangel: Aruba 2009

2009-08-04T08:14:00.001-04:00

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Threes of ME

2009-07-25T09:48:00.003-04:00

We are using honesty policy. So, if you are reading this you've been tagged, you are supposed to write a note with the 3's of YOU.

Three names I go by:
1. Flower
2. Flor
3. Le Fleur

Three Jobs I have had in my life:
1. Administrative Asst.
2. Public Relations Rep.
3. Teacher

Three Places I have lived (all in Miami. FL):
1. Kendall
2. Kendall
3. Kendall (LOL)

Three Favorite drinks:
1. Water
2. Iced-Tea
3. Wine

Three TV Shows that I watch:

1. Grey's Anatomy
2. Entourage
3. True Blood

Three places I have been:
1. Tahiti
2. NYC
3. Bahamas

People that text me regularly:

1. John
2. Dorothy
3. Larissa/Kismet (tied for 3rd)

Three of my favorite foods:

1. My mom's or grandma's cooking
2. Italian
3. Sushi

Three friends I think will respond
1. Dorothy
2. Kismet
3. ???

Three Things I am looking forward to
1. My trip to Aruba in 3 days
2. My trip to bimini when I get back from Aruba
3. Being entirely debt-free!

On my mind...

2009-07-24T22:16:00.002-04:00

Lots of the things are on my mind lately. So much that the stress is killing my shoulders and neck.

So many thing are falling into place for us right now and so many things still seem so far away.

I haven't posted in so long. I've tried to update with pictures, but I know it's not the same.

I guess I get to such a low point sometimes that I just stop whining. LOL.

What is there to whine about, right? I mean, we are all healthy, bills are paid and I am almost debt-free. Like I mentioned, so many things falling to place.

I am unhappy about work and I don't know what to do about it. For one, right now is not the time to quit, but when it is, will I be ready? Is it selfish of me to still want to have something for me? That I want to feel like a contributor financially? I know that SAHM (stay at home moms) do contribute to the house, don't get me wrong, but I like that I can escape even though I don't LOVE some aspects of my job. I love the teaching aspect. I love the kids. God, they drive me nuts, but I do love them. I feel that we learn so much from eachother. What I do hate is the administrative end of it all. I hate that because I put my family first, I am penalized/punished. I hate that because I am upfront and honest, I am penalized/punished.

I am also lonely. I miss my husband. I hate that he travels so much. Yes, I knew it was going to be like this when I signed on the dotted line. I am happy he is living out his dream career, but what about me? I am here. Managing a highly demanding full time job and two kids. Everything, at least I feel, falls on me.

Just a heads up on the perculating thoughts in my head!

I've Realized...

2009-07-23T10:01:00.001-04:00

RULES: Once you've been tagged, you are supposed to write a note completing the 36 "I’ve come to realize." At the end, choose the friends you want to be tagged. You have to tag the person who tagged you. If I tagged you, it's because I want to know more about you or I knew you way back when and am interested in what life has taught you!!

1. I've come to realize that my chest-size..
will not change unless I pay to have it changed!

2. I've come to realize that my job...
has its pros and its cons.

3. I've come to realize that when I'm driving...
I get my best ideas.

4. I've come to realize that I need....
nothing really other than my family to survive.

5. I've come to realize that I have lost...
lots of things, but nothing that truly matters.

6. I've come to realize that I hate it when...
people chat on cell phones while driving.

7. I've come to realize that if I'm drunk...
I have a blast when in the right company! ;)

8. I've come to realize that money...
ISN'T EVERYTHING!

9. I've come to realize that certain people...
are just not good. That my idea of everyone being "good" is very naive.

10. I've come to realize that I'll always ..
love my family.

11. I've come to realize that my sibling(s)...
aren't lovey, dovey, "be-there-for-you"individuals.

12. I've come to realize that my mom...
is a strong and amazing woman when all is said and done.

13. I've come to realize that my cell phone...
has become a need to have more than a want to have.

14. I've come to realize that when I woke up this morning..
my husband was not in the bed. I miss him!

15. I've come to realize that last night before I went to sleep...
I checked on the kids, kissed them, tucked them, and set the alarm. I also grabbed my "power bat"! :0

16. I've come to realize that right now I am thinking...
about what the kids and I will do today.

17. I've come to realize that my dad...
is a very easy-going, big-hearted man. - this is about the dad that raised me, not the one that made me.

18. I've come to realize that when I get on Facebook...
I look forward to connecting with friends without having to interrupt my family life.

19. I've come to realize that today...
is a new day and could be the day.

20. I've come to realize that tonight...
I may start a scrapbook for my nephew.

21. I've come to realize that tomorrow...
I am hanging with my girls and their kids and that I am one day closer to my husband and Aruba!

22. I've come to realize that I really want to...
just be HAPPY!

23. I've come to realize that the person who is most likely to repost this is..
I have no idea..

24. I've come to realize that life...
has ups and downs and that you need to learn from the downs to enjoy the ups.

25. I've come to realize that this weekend...
my hubby will be home!

26. I've realized the best music to listen to when I am upset...
angry girl music...gotta love me some Britney and Avril Lavigne

27. I've come to realize that my friends...
are few, but PERFECT! (there are chosen few, you know who you ARE)

28. I've come to realize that this year...
is just beginning (unfortunately I look at years in terms of school years and not months LOL)

29. I've come to realize that my exes...
were life lessons for me

30. I've come to realize that maybe I should...
not go shopping today for those bags that I want but don't need. (those that know my husband will understand this)

31. I've come to realize that I love...
John, John Jr., Gianna, and Broadway more than words can express. Yes, my dog is included. Not to mention my parents and in-laws.

32. I've come to realize that I don't understand...
how so many people out there really could care less about their own children.

33. I've come to realize my past...
has made me who I am today. I've learned and moved on.

34. I've come to realize that parties...
are a lot of work to throw, and lots of fun to attend!

35. I've come to realize that I'm totally terrified...
of dying and not seeing my kids' biggest milestones!

36. I've come to realize that my life...
is complete. I have everything a woman could ask for and then some. I hate myself for complaining sometimes. It isn't the easiest life, but it's mine. My kids and family are healthy. I LOVE and am LOVED! Like I wrote...COMPLETE!

Pictures from Florangel

2009-06-09T16:08:00.001-04:00

Click here to view these pictures larger

Pictures from Florangel: Memorial Weekend

2009-05-25T21:05:00.001-04:00

Click here to view these pictures larger

Pictures from Florangel: Gianna gets a new do!

2009-04-22T12:03:00.001-04:00

Click here to view these pictures larger

Pictures from Florangel: Easter 2009

2009-04-12T19:16:00.001-04:00

58 pictures
View Album at Shutterfly

Every Woman's Dream...

2009-04-10T15:29:00.003-04:00

Have you ever thought about your dreams as a young girl?

Doesn't every girl just absolutely dream of living a "Cinderella-type Fairy Tale"? I mean for as long as I can remember, all I ever wanted was to be a princess. I wanted a Prince Charming to sweep me off my feet and take me away from anything bad that I had ever faced.

What happened to that? Life as we know it. We become so jaded as we get older. We don't realize that there really isn't a "Happily Ever After", but more of an "Almost Happily Ever After." Somehow, we are constantly searching for that Happiness that we don't even know what it really consists of. Have you ever sat and said, I am entirely happy with every aspect of my life right now? Probably not. There is always something we want to perfect or get better. I think we are so busy focusing on that we forget all the things we do have take us to the "almost" level.

I won't lie. I am a mere 33 years old. I've hardly lived enough to have been through horrible things. I didn't endure slavery, segregation, or the holocaust. I am glad I didn't. I am way to kindhearted to watch others be hurt for no reason other than the color of their skin or religious choice. I haven't witnessed a war firsthand. Sure, our country is at war and has been at war, but I have not been there to see what it really consists of. My best knowledge of war is through movies like "The Patriot" or "Saving Private Ryan." Both extremely gruesome, tear jerkers for me.

Why am I writing this? Because I am happy. I've had my share of heartache. Some of which I don't wish to publicize, some of which, if you know me personally,you know have been painful.

I have a home. It doesn't have a picket fence and a garden, but it's a home, not just a house. I have healthy kids. They are not perfect and there are days that I wonder where they came from, but they are mine and I love every inch of their abstract personalities. I have my Prince Charming. He doesn't take away the bad, but we face it together, hand in hand and roll with the punches.

What more can a girl ask for?

Maybe I get all this because I know what it's like to be alone, to lose someone you love, to be with someone that doesn't stand by your side or even worse to be knocked off of your dream horse when you think you are capable to taking anything on.

Spring Break 2009

2009-04-09T14:22:00.003-04:00

Here are some of our Spring Break pictures. We did what is a called a "Stay-Cation." We rented on Miami Beach for 4 days and it was GREAT to be together and enjoy some time away from the everyday grind. Our staycation was cut in half because of cold-front. Who the heck would've thought there would be a cold front in the middle of April here??

Random Thinking...

2009-04-09T14:16:00.002-04:00

I was just on facebook and I really enjoy just checking out everyone's photos. It's so nice to keep in touch with people through their pictures even though you really can't sit, chat or hang out all the time. It's also my "adult interaction" with John away so much.

The point is that I am always complaining about being "alone" and reality is that I am not alone. I have a family. I have my parents alive and well, my in-laws are incredible people, my kids (aka Joeys), and my wonderful husband. Sure, John travels a lot for work and a lot of times I am managing a lot more than I can handle, but I always have someone to call. Well, today I was perusing someone's pictures and realized how lonely this one friend must be. She's on vacation ALONE! Her family is half way across the world and I've never heard her complain.

Why do things like these happen to good people? She seems happy alone, but I am sure she wouldn't mind someone to be with.

I guess I am just really grateful for everything I have. John is right. I am so spoiled and sheltered sometimes I don't realize how superficial I sound. I'm not really superficial, but I can see why someone would think that.

My latest stuff

2009-03-28T14:22:00.001-04:00

Random Questions

2009-03-26T16:53:00.002-04:00

I've been asking myself lately:

How can a parent be so uninformed?

Why does everyone seem to have it so together and I feel like I am busting at the seams?

What happened to respect and manners?

Why does every work place or school have to have cliques?

Why is there always the popular people and the unpopular people?

Why do children have to get picked on?

Why are kids these days so not motivated?

What happened to "outdoor" summers?

Why are parents so caught up in keeping their kids happy if we still don't even know what happiness really is?

Isn't it all relative?

Why does my mom get so consumed by my sister that she forgets that the rest of us need her too?

Why do I always question my instincts?

Why is my brother on my mind so much lately?

Why can't I just let certain things go?

Why can't I rest on the one day that I am kid-free if rest is all I've wanted for the last 6 months?

Am I making the right decisions when it comes to parenting?

Is setting high standards for your children a bad thing?

Is having a reaction/consequence, whether it be good or bad, wrong for every reaction?

Why does everyone offer empty threats?

So, I've been slacking...

2009-03-16T17:44:00.004-04:00

On my posts that is. Everything else in my life is non-stop constantly.

I really just get on here when I need a moment to vent or let go.

John's season is almost done. Thank God! I thought this was supposed to get easier?? I feel it is just as hectic every year.

I will update with some pics first.

Last time I posted it was New Years. That leaves me with 3 months of catching up.

Let me try to do chose a pic for each month.

Happy New Year

2009-01-05T08:26:00.001-05:00

I've been so caught up in other things, that I never posted our New Year's Pictures. We started it off with family. My brother and sister and law had a party at their house. It was GREAT! It was the first time ever the kids were up so late. They were happy to comply and had no problems staying up. They did crash in the car on the way home.

Hormonal

2008-12-28T15:48:00.002-05:00

I find that these last few days I've put myself on an emotional roller coaster. No one has insulted or hurt me other than my vivid imagination. I've also found out that my monthly friend is playing a big role in this emotional roller coaster of mine. Why? Why are women subjected to this one time a month (once in a blue moon for me thanks to Mirena)? I swear I appear to be this unstable, crazy lady that can't handle some quiet time. I've made a mountain out of a mole-hill and then some.

Does anyone ever reach that point where you can't stand yourself? Don't misunderstand me. I am generally a good person. Sometimes too good. I am constantly putting myself last and others needs first. I am guessing that so much of that takes it's toll when I am hormonal.

Today, I can sit and find at least 10 things about myself that I am not happy with. At least a New Year is a few days away and I can resolve to change those things, right? I mean, I can lose weight, eliminate debt, save money, and some how fix my sagging body and crows feet. LOL! I am guessing now you are understanding why I this blog is titled "Diary of a Drama Queen...".

I do see the good in my life. I've written about that before. So, don't automatically assume that I am self-absorbed, selfish individual filled with shallow thoughts. I am not at all like that.

Maybe now that I've released this, I will feel better. I am not even an emotional eater. I haven't really pigged out in days. I have a weird feeling in the pit of my stomach. Hey, at least that will help with the weight loss resolution.

Christmas Morning at our house!

2008-12-27T08:30:00.001-05:00

Stolen Quiz - 1 WORD

2008-12-26T22:36:00.002-05:00

Where is your cell phone? Diaper Bag
Your hair? up
Your mother? home
Your father? birthday
Your favorite thing? life
Your dream last night? none
Your dream/goal? happiness
The room you're in? living
Your fear? lizards
Where do you want to be in 6 years? alive
Where were you last night? here
What you're not? stupid
Muffins? ok
One of your wish list items? superficial
Where you grew up? Miami
The last thing you did? laundry
What are you wearing? pajamas
Your TV? off
Your pet? yorkie
Your computer? dell
Your life? hectic
Your mood? blah
Missing someone? yes!
Your car? outside
Something you're not wearing? bra
Your summer? Incredible
Love someone? yes
Your favorite color? Blue
When is the last time you laughed? today
Last time you cried? today

In the Spirit of the Season...

2008-12-21T13:49:00.002-05:00

We took some great Christmas Portraits. I must admit that I "personally" don't love them. Have a looksy for yourself.

Here are some pictures of the kids posing by the tree last night. I think they are AWESOME!!

Today's Horoscope.

2008-12-20T13:19:00.002-05:00

Only to confirm that I cannot heal the world...

Dear Florangel,
Here is your horoscope
for Saturday, December 20:

You need to accept the status quo today, even if it feels a bit unfair to you. Things are what they are today, but you can at least file away your grievance for later, when you can do something about it.

Touched

2008-12-20T08:23:00.004-05:00

Today I sit here typing this after probably what I would label as a "bad-week". Gianna had a stomach flu, Jr. has had a sore throat and on again off again fever, and now I feel horrid! All this of course, while John is away. I try not to complain when he calls. At the end of the day, he is working and not out partying. I will admit that I am slightly envious of his midday naps and quiet time. Shhh! He doesn't have to know. I am sure it would be the same on his end if the tables were turned.

I've also been affected by something in the news. Caylee Anthony's (http://www.insideedition.com/news.aspx?storyID=2455) body being found hurts me so deep. How could a mother do such a thing??? I am alone with my kids off and on for 6 months of the year. I won't say that times are not trying and things are always peachy, but geez, I would never even think. I guess what gets me the most is that I had held out hope that she had either given her away to someone or sold her. Not the perfect scenario either, but better than killing her. For Pete's sake, she could've given Caylee up to her mother. The next issue is that the body had been spotted back in August by the same person and Law Enforcement did nothing. They claimed to have checked the area and found nothing. What a crock?!? Has everyone just stopped caring??

Well, I find solace at night when I put my daughter down for bed. You see we have a radio in Gigi's room. WE have since she was born. She was a colicky baby and at times the constant music/background noise would help soothe her. We always have it on an easy-listening station. That easy listening station has the best host in the evening when I am putting Gianna down. Her name is Delilah(http://www.delilah.com/home/home.html). During the show people can call and make dedications. Dedications range from celebrating a long-awaited adoption to having lost the one you love. She is amazing. She calls herself the "Queen of Sappy Love Songs". She has a song for every moment that life throws at you. Last night, listening to people pour their hearts out on the radio made me realize that the world is not only filled with Casey Anthonys. There are actually good mothers and fathers out there and not all children are suffering. I was touched and I needed that. I don't know if Delilah plays in your area. If she doesn't, check out her site, she will touch you as well. Especially during these very trying times when we think there is not any good left in the world.

7 Tag

2008-12-12T18:52:00.002-05:00

I read this Bridget's blog, so I guess I am tagged. LOL!

7 tag

7 Things I can do
1. be a mommy
2. multitask
3. organize
4. take photos
5. smile
6. adore my children
7. laugh

7 Things I cannot do
1. whistle
2. ice skate
3. go to bed with dirty dishes in the sink.
4. sing...well
5. lie well
6. not spend money
7. wear heals

7 Things I always say
1. awesome
2. in other words
3. no-no Gianna
4. What do you say?
5. I love you
6. where's your...
7. yes

7 Things I can always eat
1. sushi
2. salads
3. italian
4. chocolate
5. pizza
6. chocolate chip cookies
7. plantain chips

7 Things I love to do
1. cuddle with John & Gigi
2. stay home and play with John & Gigi
3. talk to my mom everyday
4. scrapbook
5. take pictures
6. spend time with John Sr.
7. hang out with my girls

7 People I tag
EVERYONE! If you read this, consider yourself TAGGED!

My latest work...

2008-12-06T09:03:00.003-05:00

So, we all know the economy is bad and blah blah blah. I am so sick of hearing it already. Well, I decided to try and make my son's teacher's gifts this year. I have to thank some of my bestest friends for the guidance. I couldn't have made these without them.

John couldn't believe I made them. How dare he doubt me? Now, he wants to put me to work selling them...LOL!

Thankful...

2008-11-20T07:36:00.002-05:00

I've sat around the last few days closely analyzing my life and its contents.

My family is healthy. I mean my "ENTIRE" family (mom, dad,in-laws,kids). That is one thing I am so very grateful for.

In these tough economic times, we are still paying our mortgage and house bills. I am not saying we don't struggle, but the fact remains that nothing is ever late.

Even though my job is challenging at times (adolescent 14 year olds are a handful), I am lucky to have it. I am lucky to maybe be the person that inspires these kids. I sometimes care too much and it affects me, but who wouldn't be affected, right?

During these cold times, I am thankful to live in a place like Miami. 52 degrees is freezing for us. I am living it right now, but I know that in a few days I can wear my shorts and tank tops again.

Last, I am thankful for my friends. In the last 4 years I've made some amazing friends. We stick up for each other and help each other out. I've learned the true meaning and value of "real friends".

Ever wonder...

2008-11-10T21:41:00.002-05:00

Where your life would be without all the mistakes? If you are currently at your "happy place", but didn't struggle to get there.

I was packing up some scrapbooking stuff and found some stuff that shouldn't even be around. Nothing incriminating, or horrible...just pictures of me during another chapter of my life. Just me alone. It's funny because I "looked" happy, but I know that I wasn't. So scary! AT that moment in time, I thought my decisions/choices were all I had. Boy was I wrong.

Regret is the word I am thinking. But is it good to regret 5 years of my life because I feel they were wasted on the WRONG person? Maybe I grew up during those 5 years? Maybe the final blow made me who I am today? Maybe I needed to experience all that to appreciate what I have today?

I know this is rambling to everyone that doesn't me personally. If you do know me, the real me, you know exactly what I am referring to.

Let's just say I should've followed my heart and not my head. I've never been one to care what people thought, and the one time I did care, it blew up in my face.

Yearbook Yourself

2008-11-09T08:01:00.002-05:00

So, I have a facebook account and a few friends recommended that I "yearbook myself." I was definitely born within the right era. I would've never gotten married. I look hideous! LOL! Enjoy! If you want to do it, go to www.yearbookyourself.com. Let me know you did it, so that I can check yours out.

My Latest Work...

2008-11-02T10:56:00.007-05:00

Here are some Layouts I've done in the last two months...this is my "creative outlet"
I have no idea on how to turn the ones that are facing the wrong direction...so, pls forgive me.

The Happiest Halloween

2008-11-01T08:46:00.003-04:00

Halloween around here last year was a complete wash out due to a massive storm. Gigi didn't get her costume on it was so bad.

This year was looking bleak because of illnes. Gianna's had a mix of things this week that weren't very good. We were so happy that she was better enough to go trick-or-treating with her brother.

Here are my little ghouls!

Cyber Journal

2008-11-01T07:39:00.000-04:00

November 1 - When I need time for myself...I go for a walk or a run.

November 2 - If I could live anywhere I would stay in Miami. I love it here. I love that everyone is complaining about snow and we have sunshine all the time.

November 3 - I really miss...my brother. I wish I would have had a chance to see him as a young adult.

November 4 - I never expected...to be married with two kids. Growing up I was so anti-family. I am guessing it stemmed from growing up in such a "full" household that all I ever really longed for was peace and quiet.

November 5 - An unusual day in my life is peaceful and uneventful! LOL

Something few people realize about me
I wish I weren't so...Obsessive Compulsive.
One of my best points is...being so organized.
One of my most important goals is...making my family work. I work really hard at making sure we are ALL happy.
I dream that one day...we will be financially sound.
What makes me feel proud is my family.
I'm glad I'm alive when my kids tell me they love me or hug and kiss me.
Some little things I often forget to enjoy the company of those I love.

I've been bit by the Twilight bug

2008-10-30T06:47:00.003-04:00

I am not a big fan of fads. My mom raised to me to lead and not follow. This sometimes has made me a "go-against-the-grain" type of person. Some people love this about me, and others hate it.

Well, I am following a fad. My students were raving about it so much I decided to dip my toe into the water and check it out. At the end of the day I just wanted to see what was actually motivating them to pick up a darn book. All I can say is "WOW"!

My life doesn't allow much time for stuff I enjoy like reading, I've found the time! I am on page 200 and every night I go to sleep thirsty (no pun intended) for more. Could this introvert girl meets vampire book be the next best thing???

Let's just say I am depriving myself of my precious sleep to read it. With that I say it all. I will be analyzing and posting more soon.

Until then, I owe, I owe, it's off to work I go.

In the spirit of Halloween...

2008-10-26T16:36:00.002-04:00

WHAT IMAGE STUCK WITH YOU THE LONGEST? WRITE ABOUT THE SCARIEST MOVIE YOU EVER SAW.

I have to be honest. I am not a big fan of gore. I don't think I will be too happy when my son uses his "boy" rank and wants to be something yucky for Halloween. To answer the question, Horror Movies have never been my thing. I try not to watch any at all because John is away so much and I think everything is a Chainsaw Massacre scene.

Laugh all you want! The one that shook me up the most at a young age had to be Nightmare on Elm Street. Talk about freaking me out. I didn't sleep for weeks. The image of Freddy Krueger coming to get me if I did fall asleep was enough to keep me awake forever. As I got older, I realized just how silly that was. That was the first time I realized that scary movies weren't for me.

Feeling good...

2008-10-26T12:57:00.002-04:00

John is home and I feel good. I guess all of my stresses are related to him being away.

Jr. got his first report card and it was PERFECT! I am soooo proud of him. His teacher wrote some very nice comments.

Gianna is talking more. Thank the good Lord. I was worried about her and the lack of words. I think we are up to at least 10 words already.

I got to scrapbook on Friday night. I got four layouts done. I happen to think they are kick ass. But, I think I am completely biased. I will post some pics in a bit.

I seem to have a UTI. I haven't had one in years. I think my poor diet and drinking habits have contributed. I usually drink a lot of water and I've been slacking on my intake for the last week. I am paying for it now. I've already had 32 ounces of water today. I am getting ready to fill up again.

This was one of those random posts just to update on my current happenings. I will be back with some of my usual drama queen ramblings soon.

Ever wonder...

2008-10-21T20:46:00.003-04:00

I am sitting here making sure my kids are out 100% for the night feeling extremely overwhelmed. I wonder if it's too early. I wonder if I am just being my melodramatic self.

John just started traveling again and I am already on the verge of a breakdown. Last night, at 2am mind you, I had a very sharp pain in my chest when I would lie on my left side. Totally weird and totally got me thinking about ALL I really do handle. I have a to-do list that I can barely keep tabs on. I try not to write it down to not overwhelm myself more, but that method isn't helping because my mind just blanks out when I try to "mentally" run through it.

Gianna is also developing quite an attitude. She is very bossy. Mind you, she doesn't say much, but still manages to bully her OLDER brother around. She is also having attachment issues. The new thing is to have a total tantrum at the sitter's house every morning when I try to drop her off. She clings to me to the point where she looks like a monkey to a tree. Last week I diverted her attention with food, but that did not work today. She wasn't having any of my distractions. Her tantrums really put me through the ringer. I almost feel guilty. As if, I should've been smart enough to keep myself debt free so that I would've been able to stay home with her.

John Jr. is just testing limits. Whenever I ask him to do something instead of doing it he asks "why?"

I guess you add that to my obnoxious students, my demanding principal, and the fact that I miss my husband terribly and feel incredibly sleep deprived and I have every right to feel just that OVERWHELMED!

What was I thinking...

2008-10-20T16:37:00.002-04:00

The day I decided to teach 8th Grade?? Everything is turned into something kinky or something sexual. I go out of my way to plan interesting things for them and it always backfires on me.

This year's group is out of control. I absolutely abhor my last period of the day. They are labled as "Gifted", but they seem far from it.

I just needed to get this off my chest. I am stuck with them for another 27 weeks, so I just need to vent a little. Thanks for reading.

Hiding behind a picture

2008-10-19T11:04:00.002-04:00

There is something so tender about this picture. As I mentioned before, my girlfriend Dorothy shot some family portraits of us at a local beach. I love doing this annually, just to see the growth. The previous year we had done it with Gianna in-utero. Well, she was here and mobile this time, and boy did she make her presence known. She was every where. Getting a smile out of her was next to impossible. You will notice few pictures of her "really" smiling. She chose not too.

Back to the point. This picture was taken as I was trying to distract her from jumping into puddles and interrupting the other pictures being taken. It looks so tender and sweet, but in reality I wanted to choke her. She was spiraling out of control.

The picture also doesn't reveal the puddle she did manage to jump into 20 minutes later can completely ruining her $35 White Leather Stride Rite sandals. Keep in mind that we are ALL wearing white.

At the same time, I love this picture because even though she is a trouble-maker that abuses on her older brother, I ADORE HER.

I am thankful that she is "feisty" to say the least. I don't ever want her walked on and by the looks and sounds of her, that will be tough to do.

This has to stop...

2008-10-19T10:42:00.003-04:00

I am officially angry at myself. The last time I said I was going to start posting again was a month ago.

My lack of posting would probably indicate that I am in a massive slump. I haven't scrapbooked in ages, my blog is 2 months behind, and not to mention my mood. Yes, I am in a slump.

Why? You might ask...Well, John is back at work again. Basketball season has officially started. I miss him so much. The beginning of the season is always a very difficult adjustment for me. I should be grateful during this hard times. At least both of us have jobs. I have been trying to NOT be the little joiner at work to avoid overwhelming myself. However, my job always manages to screw that up for me. This week alone I had to ask my father-in-law for help in the afternoons with Jr. I have two meetings that came out of nowhere.

I am having some good times with the kids. Gianna is finally trying on some new words for a change and Jr. is really doing well at school. He already knows the Pledge of Allegiance and a bunch of songs. HE also knows A-F and 1-4. He writes them too. I am so proud of him.

Well, I have some great journal topics to answer and as you may have noticed. I got some of our family portraits back on a CD. I totally revamped the intro to this blog.

If I lost your readiness during my hiatus, please come back. I am just battling some good ole' loneliness. :(

Seems like forever...

2008-09-18T08:21:00.002-04:00

since I have posted on my own blog!

I have so many different things going on right now. It's extremely obvious that I am back at work. John leaves on Saturday and won't be back till Thursday night. It's going to be rough, but I am sure I will survive. Honestly, I have no choice but to survive.

We've all had some horrible colds. It started with Jr., then Gigi, and me. John is the only one immune to the infamous cold.

I have a bunch of family portraits to post. I will try to get to all that this weekend.

Those of you that have been checking for posts, I will be back soon and with a vengeance. ;)

Family Portraits...

2008-08-26T20:46:00.003-04:00

I really don't have time for a formal post. Honestly, I am suffering from a bit of anxiety. Nothing major, just being me.

Well, back to the point of this post. A girlfriend of mine, Dorothy, took some family portraits of us at the beach this past weekend. She sent me a few to preview the shoot. This is what we have so far.

First Day of School Pictures

2008-08-21T19:50:00.002-04:00

It's official my boy is a Kindergartner! He did GREAT with everything. He overcame his button issues (hopefully permanantly) and he told John and I "Mami and Papi, I love you" and stayed without hesitation. NO tears on his part, plenty on mine. What can I say?? My baby boy is no longer a baby.

Jr. is starting school

2008-08-19T15:50:00.002-04:00

Back to school around here has been postponed by two days. At least for me. I was set to start on Monday, but Tropical Storm Fay felt that I needed the extra two days off. The good news is that Fay came, went, and all is well. Thank God! We were more ready than we've ever been. We had even invested in accordian shutters over the summer. Honestly, it is a FL must-have.

Regardless, I start school tomorrow not that the storm has come and gone. Thank the good Lord they started tomorrow because one more day and I would've missed my son's first day of school to be at my own. LOL!

He seems excited to say the least. I can't believe how quickly time has passed. He is 4 years and 5 months old. He is attending private school, and they work a year ahead. He will be starting KINDERGARTEN.

Jr. is ok with everything but the uniform situation. For those that don't know, my son refuses to wear buttons. No oxfords, polos or anything with a button. We do force him on occassion to wear them, but let's just say the preparation is tiring to say the least.

Well, yesterday we decided to try on his uniforms with his "required" shoes to make sure the pants did not need to be altered. This is the initial reaction that we got. All I can say is that I am super happy that John will be handling the drop offs for the first month. I would've suicidal if it was me. At least he will break him in for me.

I've been Tagged (twice)

2008-08-19T15:23:00.002-04:00

So, in case somebody doesnt know how this works, here are the rules... I have to share 7 facts about me (will do about Gianna also), and then I tagged 7 people letting them know by a comment in their blog.

Gianna has a birthmark on her check that looks like a mosquito bite right now. It will eventually be just like the one I have on my right check close to ear.

Gianna has a tough temper. She may look all smiles in pictures, but runs rampant and controls the situations we allow her to.

Gianna's vocabulary is very limited. She does, however, somehow manage to get her point/request across. We like to say she is gifted when she does this.

Gianna must sleep with her blankie. While it is the same type of blankie, mommy rotates the blankies every so often to not create a habit of the same blankie every day.

Gianna has a "secret" relationship with Broadway, our dog (toy yorkie). It seems like only they understand eachother. He is always following her, and she is always rough-housing him. He loves it. He doesn't allow anyone else to rough him up other than her.

Gianna is a secret priss. She likes to hide the fact that she is prissy. She will rip off ALL bows I put on her, but quickly come back for me to put them on again. John gets a secret thrill from this and I retaliate when she comes for reapplication.

My daughter loves to eat, but is picky at the same time. I think she is going to be one of these "tree-hugging" "organic-loving" people. She eats tons of fruit. The minutes she sees some sort of movement in the kitchen, she is there for dibs.

Now about me,
1 - I suffer from anxiety when things don't go the way I want them to or the way I think would be perfect.
2 - No matter how much weight I lose, I always struggle in believing that I am not overweight. I've had two kids and wear a size 6 or 8 (depending on style).
3 - In middle and high school and did some cheerleading and a lot of dance.
4 - I am a sap for old people or children in need. i.e. that kid that tells me he doesn't have lunch money. I will give them mine.
5 - I studied to be a journalist, not a teacher.
6 - My husband and I met while in relationships with other people and somehow found eachother when those relationships ended.
7 - My LOVE for my kids is so strong that sometimes it scares me. I feel like I obsess trying to be perfect for them way too much.

Some thoughts...

2008-08-09T09:58:00.003-04:00

Today is a good day.

It's actually been a GREAT summer. I have reconnected with my husband. He is away so much it seems we get lost at times. All we talk about is bills, the kids, and responsibilities...very mundane stuff. Our vacations have definitely helped rekindle the "us" factor. He tries so hard to please me and put a smile on my face. The best moment for me was falling asleep on his bare chest. His skin has this "manly" scent to it. I love it! I miss that scent so much when he is away. I wish they sold the scent in a bottle. It would really help me get through those nights when he is away and I am so longing for him to be home.

Our vacations have embedded permanent smiles on our kids' faces for the time being. It is great to watch them enjoy every minute of the vacations. Obviously the beach and Disney topping their lists.

Jr. is maturing so fast. In the past few months he has transformed from Yoda to a rockstar. He now dreams of attending camp rock and being as big or bigger than the Jonas Brothers (gotta love Disney channel). My baby boy starts school in 10 days. I picture myself as the sappy mom standing outside the classroom crying like a baby as her son embraces his new surroundings with out hesitation.

Gianna is growing in leaps and bounds. She is like a sponge these days. She now has a baby (Cabbage Patch baby named after her) and a stroller. She walks around kissing her baby and giving her "leche". The kissing shows me that I have shown her that kind of love. In a secret way, I love watching her give baby "Gigi" love. It reflects the way I give her love. She says very few things still, but I know her vocabulary will explode soon. She says, and not on command or always at the right time, "mama, papa, bye, go-go, stop, baby, tete".

I will soon post some pics capturing the moments/thoughts I have described above. All I can say is vacation has been cleansing to ALL of our souls. We are a happier and tighter family because of it.

The pictures that correspond with "some thoughts"

2008-08-09T09:00:00.000-04:00

Back from the beach

2008-08-08T22:11:00.002-04:00

Here are some pics...be back soon with a vacation recap.

A pit stop for us...

2008-08-03T22:29:00.003-04:00

We made it home from NJ and NYC. We are on our way out for our 1 week beach vacation. Here are some shots from NJ and NYC. More on trips coming upon our return.

Summer Fun Pictures

2008-07-30T15:04:00.004-04:00

Here are some more pics of our summer fun...

And we are off...

2008-07-30T15:02:00.001-04:00

Our 10 day vacation starts tomorrow. We leave for NJ (1 day visit in NYC) tomorrow morning. We come back home on Sunday, and then we take off for week vacation at the beach. I pray that no gets the sickies on this trip and that ALL flows smoothly. Our Disney vacation ended great, but started off real bad.

The Big Read Take 2 (finally updated)

2008-07-24T15:01:00.003-04:00

Ok, so that whole Big Read post got me thinking I need to read more. I am going to take a picture of the stack of books on my night stand now. I am determined finish at least 2 before I go back to work in 2 weeks.

I have:
Eat, Love, Pray (more 1/2 way through)
Shopaholic takes Manhattan by: Sophie Kinsella
Operation Pedro Pan by: Ivonne Conde (something I want to assign my students for Hispanic Heritage Month)
Raising a Spirited Child (self help book that I read excerpts from)
The Lightning Thief by: Rick Riordan
Slave to Fashion by: Rebecca Campbell
Angels by: Mariah Keyes
The Writer's Quotation book by: Charlton (used as a reference to inspire my student to write more)
Wisdom for Women by: Fitzpatrick (Inspirational for me)

Is everyone missing it???

2008-07-24T14:58:00.001-04:00

I placed a map for everyone to sign in when they visit and I feel so pathetic...no one has signed. :(

My camera is back...

2008-07-20T17:06:00.003-04:00

My Camera is back...

2008-07-19T23:00:00.002-04:00

Yes it is. It arrived on Monday with no battery. I called Canon, ripped them a new one and received a new battery yesterday. Needless to say, I started snapping away immediately.

The kids and I spent the day at the pool. We went to John's aunt's house. My kids love going there. Here are some non-blurry pics of our day.

Did I mention that I am loving having my camera back???

The Big Read

2008-07-18T22:48:00.003-04:00

I got this off of a fellow June 07 mom's blog. I also love to read and can never really find the time to just, do it and actually enjoy it. As I type this, I am reading 3 books simultaneously. Eat, Pray, Love - Elizabeth Gilbert, Raising your Spirited Child (don't ask), & The Lightning Theif - Rick Riordan (my students' summer reading book).

So sad that I read most of these when I was in school.

According to The Big Read, the average adult has only read 6 of the top 100 books on this list. How many have you read?

Look at the list. Bold those you have read. Italicize those you intend to read.
Underline the books you LOVE.(I can't figure out how to underline)

1. Pride and Prejudice - Jane Austen
2. The Lord of the Rings - JRR Tolkien
3. Jane Eyre - Charlotte Bronte
4. Harry Potter series - JK Rowling
5. To Kill a Mockingbird - Harper Lee
6. The Bible
7. Wuthering Heights - Emily Bronte
8. 1984 - George Orwell
9. His Dark Materials - Philip Pullman
10. Great Expectations - Charles Dickens
11. Little Women - Louisa M Alcott
12. Tess of the D’Urbervilles - Thomas Hardy
13. Catch 22 - Joseph Heller
14. Complete Works of Shakespeare
15. Rebecca - Daphne Du Maurier
16. The Hobbit - JRR Tolkien
17. Birdsong - Sebastian Faulks
18. Catcher in the Rye - JD Salinger
19. The Time Traveller’s Wife - Audrey Niffenegger
20. Middlemarch - George Eliot
21. Gone With The Wind - Margaret Mitchel
22. The Great Gatsby - F Scott Fitzgerald
23. Bleak House - Charles Dickens
24. War and Peace - Leo Tolstoy
25. The Hitch Hiker’s Guide to the Galaxy - Douglas Adams
26. Brideshead Revisited - Evelyn Waugh
27. Crime and Punishment - Fyodor Dostoyevsky
28. Grapes of Wrath - John Steinbeck
29. Alice in Wonderland - Lewis Carroll
30. The Wind in the Willows - Kenneth Grahame
31. Anna Karenina - Leo Tolstoy
32. David Copperfield - Charles Dickens
33. Chronicles of Narnia - CS Lewis
34. Emma - Jane Austen
35. Persuasion - Jane Austen
36. The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe - CS Lewis
37. The Kite Runner - Khaled Hosseini
38. Captain Corelli’s Mandolin - Louis De Bernieres
39. Memoirs of a Geisha - Arthur Golden
40. Winnie the Pooh - AA Milne
41. Animal Farm - George Orwell
42. The Da Vinci Code - Dan Brown
43. One Hundred Years of Solitude - Gabriel Garcia Marquez
44. A Prayer for Owen Meaney - John Irving
45. The Woman in White - Wilkie Collins
46. Anne of Green Gables - LM Montgomery
47. Far From The Madding Crowd - Thomas Hardy
48. The Handmaid’s Tale - Margaret Atwood
49. Lord of the Flies - William Golding
50. Atonement - Ian McEwan
51. Life of Pi - Yann Martel
52. Dune - Frank Herbert
53. Cold Comfort Farm - Stella Gibbons
54. Sense and Sensibility - Jane Austen
55. A Suitable Boy - Vikram Seth
56. The Shadow of the Wind - Carlos Ruiz Zafon
57. A Tale Of Two Cities - Charles Dickens
58. Brave New World - Aldous Huxley
59. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time - Mark Haddon
60. Love In The Time Of Cholera - Gabriel Garcia Marquez
61. Of Mice and Men - John Steinbeck
62. Lolita - Vladimir Nabokov
63. The Secret History - Donna Tartt
64. The Lovely Bones - Alice Sebold
65. Count of Monte Cristo - Alexandre Dumas
66. On The Road - Jack Kerouac
67. Jude the Obscure - Thomas Hardy
68. Bridget Jones’ Diary - Helen Fielding
69. Midnight’s Children - Salman Rushdie
70. Moby Dick - Herman Melville
71. Oliver Twist - Charles Dickens
72. Dracula - Bram Stoker
73. The Secret Garden - Frances Hodgson Burnett
74. Notes From A Small Island - Bill Bryson
75. Ulysses - James Joyce
76. The Bell Jar - Sylvia Plath
77. Swallows and Amazons - Arthur Ransome
78. Germinal - Emile Zola
79. Vanity Fair - William Makepeace Thackeray
80. Possession - AS Byatt
81. A Christmas Carol - Charles Dickens
82. Cloud Atlas - David Mitchell
83. The Color Purple - Alice Walker
84. The Remains of the Day - Kazuo Ishiguro
85. Madame Bovary - Gustave Flaubert
86. A Fine Balance - Rohinton Mistry
87. Charlotte’s Web - EB White
88. The Five People You Meet In Heaven - Mitch Albom
89. Adventures of Sherlock Holmes - Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
90. The Faraway Tree Collection - Enid Blyton
91. Heart of Darkness - Joseph Conrad
92.The Little Prince - Antoine De Saint-Exupery
93. The Wasp Factory - Iain Banks
94. Watership Down - Richard Adams
95. A Confederacy of Dunces - John Kennedy Toole
96. A Town Like Alice - Nevil Shute
97. The Three Musketeers - Alexandre Dumas
98. Hamlet - William Shakespeare
99. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory - Roald Dahl
100. Les Miserables - Victor Hugo

What would someone envy about me?

2008-07-17T22:05:00.001-04:00

People Envy Your Compassion

You have a kind heart and an unusual empathy for all living creatures. You tend to absorb others' happiness and pain.

People envy your compassion, and more importantly, the connections it helps you build. And compassionate as you are, you feel for them.

What Do People Envy About You?

Opportunities...

2008-07-17T21:43:00.004-04:00

Lots of opportunities surfacing these days for me. After 15 resumes being sent out in January and April, I got called for an interview. Yup, I interviewed with another school. I was a nervous wreck. I felt like I was going to throw up. I am not good with change. I guess that is where Jr. gets his OCD from. Well, it wasn't even that bad. The principal was so humble, assertive and direct. I loved it. It was like looking at an older version of myself. She didn't sit still the entire time I was there.

You may be asking yourself, "Why in the world are you looking for a new job?" Well, the first reason is that "technically" I start work at 7:30am, but I have that first period off intentionally. Jr. starts school at 8:30am. So, that would make it hard to be in 2 places at one time, right? Also, I currently work 15 miles away from my home. That's 30 miles a day not counting dropping off and picking up kids. Have you seen gas prices these days. While I may have an economic SUV (08 Honda Pilot), gas is through the roof these days. I am paying $75 to fill up with cheap BJs gas.

Point is, she wants to hire me. Problem is that all the budget cuts that our district is enduring have surplassed (nice word for layoff) a lot of teachers. Since I work for a Charter school (public as far as rules followed, but privately funded), I would be considered a new hire. The district is not allowing new hires until ALL surplassed teachers(luckily on 17 are English teachers) are hired. Needless to say, the principal and I were extremely dissappointed. She is trying to work around and will let me know. Did I mention the school is smack in the middle between my home(5 miles or less away) and the kids' school/caregiver??? Oh and that they start at 9am??? I know it will be what God wants. In the end the change will be hard on me. I have a lot of clout at my school. I've been nominated for Teacher of Year two years in a row (been teaching 3) and I was asked to fill the Dept. Head position, but I declined. I'd be starting from scratch, but I'd do anything to be less stressed in the morning and be closer to my kids.

If you are reading my blog and believe in the power of prayer. Ask your God to do what is right for me....oh and THANKS!

Cyber Journal

2008-07-15T08:30:00.004-04:00

July 4 - List some things you are confident about. This is a tough one as I tend to doubt myself a lot. I am a great at supporting people. I guess you can say I am confident about my writing abilities.

July 5 - Make a list of 10 things - material or not - that you want right now.
Healthy Kids (I have this, but I want to keep it that way)
A House
A Flat-Screen
World Peace
Misc. Scrapbooking items
A scraproom
Wow, I can't list 10. My husband would be shocked!

July 6 - What are some new skills you would like to take the time to acquire?
Professinal Photography

July 7 - "I love the sound of..."
my kids' laughter

July 8 - Write about a time you were the most nervous you've ever been.
I get very nervous when I take tests. My heart starts to beat a mile a minute. I was in college and I needed to pass the Grammar test to graduate. It was my last attempt before graduation. I clicked "score my test" and I thought I was going to pass out right there. I had passed with an 87%!

July 9 - "I feel at peace when..." my to-do list is empty. That would mean hardly ever.

July 10 - List 10 things someone did for you when you were ill. Last week my hubby:
watched the kids
let me sleep
went to get me meds.
went to get me food
checked on me periodically
hugged me
kissed me

July 11 - What personality types drive you crazy?
I hate people who kiss-butt and people who gossip. IT drives me bonkers! Let's not forget the know-it-alls

July 12 - Under what circumstances do you normally do your best thinking? This is hysterical. In the car driving on the highway.

July 13 - What was the first thing on your mind when you woke up this morning? I forgot to run the dishwasher.

July 14 - How do you replenish or recharge yourself after an emotionally draining situation? I pick myself up and do something with my kids. They remind me of why I need to be strong.

July 15 - Begin your journal today "Today I am happy with..." the fact that I have as close to perfect a life a person could ask for. My husband and I are healthy, our kids are healthy, we both have jobs, are parents are healthy. We can afford all of our bills even though at times we feel overwhelmed.

And he's off...

2008-07-13T14:56:00.003-04:00

John, my husband, that is. He left for camp today. So sad for all of us. He held me so tight this morning and actually admitted to the fact that he was going to miss me. John is not a man of expressing emotions. So when he does, embrace it, take it, insert into "permanent" memory bank.
As my mother-in-law said yesterday, "a walk in the park for me?." That it will be since I am not working and a week is nothing considering how long he is gone during the season. Honestly, the toughest part for me is getting the kids out the door, to their perspective places, and myself to work at a decent time. I am never on time since I should be there at 7am and I have that first period off to give me enough time to drop every one off. I am there by 7:45am. That will all change this year with Jr. starting kindergarten.
Back to my hubby being away. He thinks I enjoy him being away because the house is cleaned up and my time is only divided amongst the kids. So, not true! I would deal with his messes if I could have him home every night.
I knew when I signed on that dotted line the way it was going to be. So, I will enjoy the two months I have left before basketball season starts again and then deal with him being away, always reminding him how much I miss him.

Growing so fast...

2008-07-12T08:58:00.004-04:00

My kids are growing so fast. It's funny because I don't want anymore children. I feel complete with my two. I want to give them everything they deserve and the way the economy is going with more than two that won't happen. At times I can't help and get a bittersweet feeling as I watch them grow so fast.

We were at swimming yesterday (Friday is family day) and I was amazed at how far both of them have come. Jr. dives in the pool and swims from mid-pool to the end on one breath. Miss Gianna swims between John and I and even turns to float on her own. She graduates next week. She learned in 5 weeks. It took Jr. 8 weeks last year to learn.

I don't have NEW pictures to post (these are somewhat old), but you get the idea as you see them in the water working hard to stay afloat.

My getaways...

2008-07-10T22:42:00.004-04:00

I find a lot of solace in my hobby, scrapbooking. I don't get to do it as often as I would love, but I get to do it enough to make me happy these days. I did this Layout last week after a 2 week hiatus (vacation got in the way) from scrapping. I love it. It reminds me of why I scrap. I enjoy reliving the moments in the pictures. It all goes back to my love for my digital camera.

I am hoping John is feeling better tomorrow (seems he may now have the bug I had) because some girlfriends are getting together tomorrow for an 8 crop. I was so looking forward to going. I wouldn't leave him though if he felt bad. He is too good to me and doesn't deserve that. He's made God knows how many trips to Walgreens to help me feel better the last 4 days.

Enjoy the pics of my latest work. I love it, but then again, I am completely biased.

Oh what a DAY!?!

2008-07-08T17:49:00.002-04:00

Geez, talk about a rough one. If I had a my camera handy I'd take a pic and post just how bad I look.

It all started last night. ALL being the nasty stomach cramps I had. Luckily it started at the kids' bedtimes, so not all was lost. Just some alone time with John. It was so bad that I fell asleep in my clothes and didn't brush my teeth (bad girl!). I woke up this morning to the same pain! It was awful. Let's add insult to injury, I had/have a workshop. John helped me by feeding Gianna and I mustered up enough courage to get out of bed and moving.

I couldn't eat breakfast. My body was not having any of the toast I made.

I got to the workshop only to be greeted with the stomach pangs and a now a headache too. Will you believe that I rode it out until 2pm??? I had a plain bagel, sprite and 5 tsp. of a chicken soup. A co-worker got me some Tylenol that didn't even tickle the headache.

I got home stripped down and jumped in bed. John gave me some Milk of Magnesia and Advil. Things got a little better, but my pounding head is still lingering.

I am wondering if this is my version of Jr.'s stomach virus from Saturday???

Things I can't live without...

2008-07-07T09:09:00.001-04:00

You may ask, where does this stem from. Well, our camera has been on the fritz for over a month now and I've been prolonging sending it to Canon in hopes that I had maybe screwed up a setting. Well, it seems it has an issue and it needs to be fixed. I feel naked with out my camera. Is that totally weird. It is the one gadget that I feel I need. I guess that is why friends and family call me the picture freak.

Magic Kingdom Slideshow

2008-07-04T10:41:00.001-04:00

Hollywood Studios Slideshow

2008-07-04T10:39:00.001-04:00

Back from Disney...

2008-07-04T10:24:00.003-04:00

Well, we did it! We have once again survived Disney World! The trip started off extremely rocky to say the least. We didn't leave at John's "desired" time and Gianna spiked a fever of 104 on the ride up. It was nuts! We ended up at a hospital in Celebration at 7pm Friday night. Various tests and hours later, she was diagnosed with a UTI. We got some antibiotics and all was better with her. Thank the Lord! The next morning we trekked off to Disney's Hollywood Studios to make sure Jr. wouldn't miss the Star Wars Weekend spectacular. We also wanted him to do the Jedi training and fight Darth Vader. The idea presented to him in theory was GREAT, but not when he actually saw Darth Vader. He flipped and ran off after we had been standing the HOT sun for hours waiting for him to get chosen. We LEFT! We were angry, bitter and extremely dissappointed. We got over it and realized, "hey, the kid is only 4!" Plus, Darth Vader was like 6'5. I would've run scared too. That was Saturday...

Sunday, John had to work some games so we just really hung out. We hit an outlet mall before John's game and the wonderful GPS system got me to Target for a necessity and back to our hotel room. Gianna napped, Jr. watched the Bee Movie and I had a nice shower. Before I knew it the time flew and it was time to go and get John. We got caught in a heck of a storm leaving the Rec Center. It was freaking hailing. Talk about NUTS!!!! We went back to the outlet mall to buy the things we didn't have time to buy when we had gone earlier. John got the entire family Adidas stuff. I got the kids a bunch of stuff at Gymboree and then I was pleasantly surprised by John with a Coach Bag I had been fantazing about for a week now. It's considered a VERY EARLY anniversary gift. MY bag is GORGEOUS!!

Monday was what I call redemption day. The trip started to be salvaged on Sunday with the excellent behavior and cooperation from the kids, but Monday is the day we redeemed ourselves with Jr. We went to what he calls the "right" Disney world. (No Darth Vader). He had an absolute BLAST!! It was so cute watching him chase characters for a picture. It was AWESOME. Gianna was such a trooper as well. She didn't complain the entire time. It was HOT out there!!!

I will be posting some slideshows of both events. Be on the lookout.