An Early Start

I have already decided on my New Year Resolutions--

• Get organized, and stay that
• Stop smoking

These are big goals for me.  Something I struggle with daily.  I personally believe that for your "resolutions" to happen, you must get a head start on them.  You can't expect it to all fall into place on January 1st without preparation.  I feel you should spend November and December planning, preparing, researching.  And that's exactly what I am doing.

Yesterday I officially began the organizing part.  I'm totally caught up on laundry.  I'm proud to say, my baskets are NOT filled with clean clothes, or dirty.  I will admit, I have dirty clothes in the hamper, and I may wash them later.  But they are small loads.  Normally I wait until I can do a large load.  Today, I completely cleaned up the kitchen.  OK, that's a lie.  My table is still covered.  But, it always will be.  The best I can do there is keep it organized, which it is.

I spent some time yesterday looking up cleaning routines others used.  I think I found one I like, but I need to alter it a bit.  It will serve as an "idea routine", to help me create my own.  Which I plan to do later today.  I hate clutter.  I hate being "the dirty family".  I have so much clutter (which isn't actually mine, but is my husband's haha).  I'm working hard on clearing this clutter, or at least organizing it better.

I need to stop smoking.  I have done it before.  Back in July 2009.  And I lasted until November 2009, when temptation around a house full of smokers was too much.  I tried quitting again a few months ago, and soon realized my addiction was worse.  I was no longer simply addicted to the habit, I was addicted to the nicotine.  By day 3 I was so spazzed out that my husband had to stay home from work that morning.  It was a terrible experience, and I do not wish to experience it again.

I'm happy to report, today I scheduled an appointment with my PCP.  I told them I needed to be seen for pain management (I should add that to my list, but it's not that simple) and to discuss starting Chantix.  And, because I joined the "Breathe" coaching program through my insurance company, the prescription will be free of charge.  I know how terrible this sounds.  You're probably thinking "If you can afford your cigarettes  you can afford the cessations".  It's not that simple.  To simply start a patch and toss the cigarettes is terrifying.  I need to know that it is OK to "cheat".  You can't do that with the patches or gum.  But, with Chantix, you can.  It helps to wean you off the addiction slowly, instead of all at once.  I'm excited!  Just 5 more days until this appointment.

Have you made your New Year Resolution yet?  What is it?  Are you doing anything to prepare for it NOW?  Have you decided a plan of action to help you stay on track?

If you have any organizing tips, please share them!  I'm opened to ideas.  I hate looking at an area and becoming so overwhelmed with the task that I get no where.  I'd love to hear your cleaning routines, food organization, tips, tricks, etc.  What about all those papers your children bring home from school?  How long do you keep them before safely disposing of them?

Day 2 (The Kitchen)

The girls are off to school.  Well, technically, they are off to the bus stop.  It's a dreary morning, wet and rainy.  But thankfully one of Josie's friends lives down the street, so they get a ride.

Speaking of Josie, she so did not want to wake up this morning...

She needed to be up 30 minutes earlier than usual for a school morning.  That girl needed a bath, and since I wasn't home last night to give her one, that meant waking up early for a morning shower.  Took a good 20 minutes to wake her up, and even then she wasn't really "up".  I'm happy to report, she did look MUCH better when she left for school vs. woke up for school.

Today's kitchen focus is my cabinets.  I need to sort them, big time...

 Lunch box cabinet

Drink mix cabinet

I'm planning on moving my lunch box cabinet over to my coffee cup cabinet.  Ok, I'm not moving the cabinet.  I'm just swapping places.  Hopefully that will make it easier on all aspects of those pesky sandwich boxes.

As for the drink mix cabinet, it's staying there.  But I picked up these small wire shelves from Dollar Tree and am planning to use them to help organize this better.  And then there is the cabinet with all the medicine.  Just trust me when I say my cabinets need help.  So they are my focus for today.

I am cleaning out the oven.  Well, the oven is cleaning itself.  I turned the timer on this morning, since ya know, I was up bright and early.  And lucky me, it'll be done in time for nap time!

If you're reading this, say a prayer for me.  If you don't hear from me later in the day, I'd say by the end of the night, that means my cabinets have taken me hostage.

Signed

Super Mom

I Made Progress!

Well, I made a decent dent in the kitchen.  Good thing I'm giving myself an entire week to finish this room project.  Here's what I managed today--

Cleaned counters connected to stove
Cleaned top surface of oven
Swept the floor
One load of dishes
cleaned UNDER the freezer, fridge, and stove (that was a mess!)
Sorted out my cookie cutters

Speaking of cookie cutters....

I have over 300 of them.  It's an addiction, and I can't seem to quit picking up more.  Today though, I sorted them.  I know I don't need 300 cookie cutters.  A lot were duplicates.  In fact, one tub was just that--about 7 different cookie cutters, but duplicated in different colors.  This would be the 100 count tub I bought last week.  I've listed most on Listia, so wish me luck there!  And then I sorted out the cutters in my drawer.  I've put several in a bag for my mom.  Granted, she only makes cookies with them.  I don't think I've ever used mine for cookies haha.

Heart turkey sandwich with the arrow in heart cheese on top

Mini Heart Shaped Grilled Cheese

Heart Peanut Butter Sandwich, blueberries

Cowboy (or girl, whichever you prefer) Boot and Hat Turkey/Cheese Sandwich

I just can't help my addiction.  I've learned the kids eat more food when I make the food look fun.  And who can blame them?  But, I am getting better.  I'm not just grabbing every cookie cutter I come across.  In fact, I found some the other day on Listia I REALLY wanted.  They were tea pot shaped, 3 different sizes.  I so want those.  But, I went ahead and passed.  I have to real here, as cute as they were, chances are slim that I would actually use them.

Anyhow, I feel productive.  I managed to get some cleaning done.  I still have more to finish.  But hey, I still have all week!  Wonder how much I'll get done tomorrow?

Signed,

Super Mom

Week 1: The Kitchen

I seriously need to learn some sort of cleaning routine.  Right now, my home is such a mess, that I never really get anything done.  Sure, I do some cleaning here and there.  But I go in some many circles, I never find a point to say "Yes, my home is clean".  So, I'm taking a different tactic.  Though I'm sure it won't last long.

I'm going to spend an entire week focusing on just one room.  I know that sounds like a lot of time.  And it is.  But I'm hoping it will help.  For that entire week not only will I clean, but I will also declutter and organize.  I need to rearrange some things.  I need to toss out some things.  I tend to collect things because I like them, but don't actually have a place for them.  If I reorganize, I just might be able to make room yet make the room look decent.

When I move on to the next week, the first room should be to the point that I spend no more than a few minutes spot cleaning.  So, I will go to the next room, while still continuing to clean the previous room.  Such as, next week I can do the living room.  I should be able to put most of my focus on just that room, but still dedicate a little time each day to the previous room(s).

Well, time to tackle my kitchen.  It's horrendous looking.  I need to figure out how to move things around.  I wonder how many of my family members I will confuse as I move things around.

Signed,
Super Mom

Five People

Throughout our lives we meet so many people.  Some are only in passing.  You talk with a stranger on the bus. Soothe the worried mom in the emergency room.  Some change your day, some change your life.  Today, I'm going to list five people who changed my life in a good way.

1.  Mrs. Ronda Modglin.  She was my sixth and seventh grade math teacher.  She was a very caring woman.  The type of teacher you trusted and always felt comfortable about.  She is top on my list.  She changed my life dramatically.  In the seventh grade she noticed a downfall in my math skills.  I was very good back then, I loved math.  So one day she pulled me to the side and told me to spill the beans.  And I did.  Through all the tears and sobbing, she listened.  And when I was done, she just held me.  The way a mother holds her child when they are sick or sad.  It felt so good.  As a result of that day, I was removed from my birth father's home and placed with my birth mother.  I had felt like life was over before that day.  Because of her, I kept moving forward.

2.  Mrs. Gough.  She was my 8th grade computer class teacher.  Similar to my math teacher in every way.  A woman, teacher, you felt comfortable spilling your guts too.  So when she pulled me to the side, that's what I did, again.  I told her of the various abuse I had going on at home.  I showed her the cuts I had covering my arms.  It didn't take long for her to make some calls.  Through this transition of waiting for police to show up, being moved from place to place, she followed me.  When we were in the car, she held my hand.  When we were waiting in some random office, she kept her arms protectively wrapped around me.  Again, another amazing teacher that saved my life.

3.  Cari Parker.  This is my mom.  No, not the woman that gave birth to me.  I was adopted when I was 16.  She took me in with no questions.  She knew I was a troubled teen, but she saw potential in me that no one else would take the time to see.  Cari didn't see me as a piece of garbage to throw out.  I love my mom with my everything.  I dread the day she will no longer be there for me.  I don't even want to think of life without her here.

4.  The nurse that taught me to breastfeed.  I know that probably sounds strange.  When I was pregnant with Josie, I wasn't sure if I would breastfeed or not.  It looked like a natural thing to do, but also seemed a little weird.  When it came time to have Josie, I decided to give it a try.  The nurse brought her to me and showed me several positions.  She also showed me how to use those positions without the side rails up (after all, my bed doesn't have those and the football hold isn't that easy without that extra support lol).  She gave me all sorts of tips and advice.  Printed out materials for me and went over everything.  She even posted a sign in my room and on the door that said "This Momma breastfeeds.  No pacifiers, no sugar water.  If it ain't the boob, keep it away.".  I still laugh today thinking back to those signs.  But I'm very thankful for her and the signs.  When I was exhausted, she helped me through it.

Because of that great experience, when I became pregnant with the twins, I knew I could handle the challenge. Little did I know, I would have tons of difficulties.  Things didn't work out as planned with the twins.  And I didn't have a good support team at home or at the hospital.  But, I gave it my all.  I had to give them formula, but it wasn't from lack of trying.  If I have any more kids in the future, breastfeeding will still be my number one choice.

5.  And finally, my little brother Donny.  He was also adopted, but as a baby.  Donny was born 8 1/2 weeks premature, cocaine addicted, has fetal alcohol syndrome and spina bifida.  Doctor after doctor said he was a lost cause.  Donny would never walk.  Never talk.  Never feed himself, go to the bathroom.  Be able to run and play with other kids.  He proved them all wrong.  Yes, Donny has some issues today, but NOTHING like the doctors predicted.  He runs, jumps, skips, swims, hops and plays just like any other little boy with zero problem.  He feeds himself, dresses himself, ties his own shoes.  And if you wanted too, he can sit for hours talking about anything and everything.  His speech isn't always clear, but you can definitely understand what he says without a struggle.  He can control his bladder, but not his bowels.  Donny doesn't let that stop him from being a happy kid.  He has taught me that life is worth living.  That no problem is worth moping around about.  That no matter what life throws at you, ALWAYS make strawberry milk (his philosophy haha).

There are many other important people in my life.  And a few people I've met along the way that aren't in my life that I still value greatly.  I could probably go on and on with a never ending list.  But for today, I wanted to share with you all my top 5 and the reasons why.

Signed,
Super Mom

Misery is Missing Company

I'm beginning to live my life in misery.  The Neurontin isn't doing much to help me.  My "good" days have been better, but not more frequent.  The ratio is generally 10 good, 20 bad of 30 days.  I still only have "10 good".  Only difference is instead of my pain level being around 6, it's at about 4.  My bad days continue to sit at 8 or 9.  Of course the good/bad days fluctuate from week to week.  Just because I went one month with 10 good days doesn't mean next month will be the same.  I could get lucky and have more good days, or, misery can join me and my good days could be less.

I went to the doctor for my one month follow up.  I detest this guy.  He has things so strict that I have no choice but to suffer through the near crippling pain.  He wrote me a prescription for 60 Vicodin, to last 60 days.  He told me he wouldn't refill it before then.  But I'm also not allowed to get pain meds anywhere else.  If I do, then he will "black list" me, making it difficult to find a doctor that will prescribe them.  This past month was TERRIBLE.  I went through 46 of those 60 pills.  I had 3 days in there where I thought for sure my right ovary exploded.  The pain was intense enough I wanted to go to the ER.  The only reason I didn't was because I had no one to watch the twins.....

....and the doctor would black list me.

I was going to see my GYNO about it.  But I didn't....

....because the PCP would black list me.  If I had seen my GYNO he would have Rx'ed pain medication.  He understands that I do have pain.  He's also aware that I could potentially take what he prescribes for something else (the back pain).

I try my best to make them stretch.  I take Midol, Aleve, Advil, Excedrin....and all their generics.  At best my pain level *might* go down one notch.  Generally I have to take 4 at a time.  Personally I think it's ridiculous to expect a person living with chronic pain to only take one Vicodin a day.  Most days I want to take 6 or more.  The only reason I don't though is my fear of running out.  Because once I'm out, that's it.  I have to wait until the 2 months is up before this jackass PCP will refill it.

So, tonight I'm down to 11 pills left.  My next appointment isn't until May 29th.  There's no way I can make it last that long.  Tomorrow I'm going to look up some more doctors and make a list.  And dang it, I'm going into interview mode.  I don't care what they think of me.  If they want to think I'm just a drug seeker then it's off to the next doctor.  I'm bound to find someone who is willing to listen and care about my situation.  Someone who understands I'd rather have enough medication to take at least 3 a day.  I don't need them every day.  I am able to skip a day or two.  Usually once I return to my bad day, I'm taking the pills I skipped on my good days.

Just ugh!!  I'm sick of being in pain and finding no relief or understanding from the doctors!!!!

Signed,
Super Mom

When the World Spins

Well it's day 2 of the Neurontin.  I started it yesterday, but only took 2 doses instead of 3.  It was late afternoon when I got the prescription and it said not to take two doses at once.

Last night I just felt funny.  Almost as though I was drunk.  And that was with just the first dose I took.  And it made me drowsy.  I started falling asleep while trying to read.  I figured me being tired already was playing a major role in that.  But today I'm not so sure.

I took the first dose around 9am, and an hour later my mom could tell a difference.  And we were just talking on the phone, she wasn't even here with me (not that she could be, she lives 4 hours away haha).  She said I was starting to talk faster and some of my words were jumbled.  Which I also noticed but didn't really pay attention too.  Now it's several hours later and I'm noticing more.  I'm really tired.  I feel weak.  Such as, I need to fold laundry.  But I can't lift the basket to get it to the room I need.  I mean, I could, but I just feel too weak to bother trying.  I'd rather just leave my arms relaxed.

I'm also feeling a little clumsy.  I keep fumbling over the small things I am picking up.  I can't walk straight, seem to be tripping over my own feet again haha.  This really isn't good considering I have kids to take care of.  I want to be fully functional.  Or at least not feeling clumsy and weak.

I just feel REALLY relaxed.  I could totally drift off to lala land if I would allow myself.  I've also got this weird tingling feeling in my mouth.  I don't know if it's related to the medicine or not, but figure I might as well mention it.  Keep track of how I'm feeling.

I'm texting a friend right now.  And wow it's so not easy.  I keep fumbling over the keys, something I never do. Same thing is happening as I type.  I'm by no means a speed typer, but I am known for going rather quickly.  Drives James nuts to hear the constant click of my keyboard because of how fast I type.  But I'm finding myself using the backspace button quite a bit right now.

I'm really not sure how long I should put up with the side effects before telling myself it's just not worth it.  I know for some people the side effects are temporary.  But how long do they last if it's just temporary?  A month?  A week?  Several months?  I think I'll give it two weeks.  Unless of course the side effects get worse.  I really want to go read but this medicine has me too unfocused to do that.  So I'll try to eat some food (really doesn't feel like I have the energy to lift a fork to my mouth and actually chew.  That's bad haha).  After I attempt lunch I'll try for a nap.  Twins aren't asleep yet so I'm not wasting time.  Maybe by the time I'm ready to lie down they'll be asleep.  They are in bed for a nap.

Well, I'm off.  I'll be back later if things seem worse or different.  I did just take dose number two.  I'm thinking pizza for dinner tonight.  Either that or James will have to cook.  I don't think I'll be able to do it.

Signed,
Super Mom

Doctor, Doctor!

Well, I finally did it.  I made myself a doctor's appointment.  And it wasn't a specialist.  The last time I went to the spine surgeon he told me I needed to get a PCP if I wanted to continue using pain medicines.  That was back in January.  Two months later, and I finally made the call.  Of course, I only did because I ran out of pain meds.  But hey, it was done.

Overall, I think the appointment went well.  Though I did have a moment of silent panic.  I was afraid he wasn't going to give me anything.  Even though in my medical records (sent from the spine surgeon) it said it would be good for me to continue using narcotics with my normal minimal use.  The PCP started giving me a long lecture on narcotic use and why doctors are not giving them out so easily.  And he made a strong point to tell me it's not something he likes to do.  I listened to what he had to say and told him I understood his point.  I also told him I was willing to try non-narcotics, I just wanted relief.

We also discussed my insomnia.  Remember my "popcorn kernel" post?  My brain is just too frazzled to sleep at night.

In the end, I got some medicine.  He gave me a 2 month supply of Vicodin (60 pills, that's plenty) and Neurontin to use for long term management.  He did say it was going to be a trial with the Neurontin, but I'm willing to give it a try.  Personally I'd rather take a non-narcotic even if it means taking it several times a day.  I don't have any bad side effects from narcotics, but you just never know when one might sneak up on you.  And I don't want to become addicted.  So, fingers crossed it works!

He also gave me Trazodone to help me sleep.  Again, a trial thing.  He said it may or may not work.  And again, I'm willing to try anything.

The side effects of the two new medicines kind of scare me.  Suicidal actions, major mood and behavior changes, nerve pain, insomnia (haha go figure right?), nightmares.  I realize these are just possible side effects and not everyone experiences them.  But it's still rather scary to think about.  So I'm going to make sure James knows to keep an eye out for those things, just in case I don't notice them.

That's about it for now.  Zoe is barking to go outside and the kids are crabbing.  Pretty sure they want some dinner.  An aspect of the day that hasn't even crossed my mind yet.  So I have to figure out what to feed them.  I'm exhausted.  I just want to grab my book and crawl into bed.  I did a lot of cleaning today.  And then going to the doctor and walking around Walmart waiting for my prescriptions.  It took a lot of out me.  My back really hurts, but I'm holding off on the pain meds.  I want to see if I can just skip it tonight.  I figure if I can manage 3 more hours then I should be good.  I'm hoping the Trazodone helps me just sleep through it.  Don't they say sleep is a good medicine?

Signed,
Super Mom

Meet Zoe

So it's been a couple weeks since I've been back to post.  I always mean to do it, I just become distracted.  Which happens very easily.  Tonight, I want to take a moment to introduce the newest family member, Zoe.

My darling husband brought her home March 2nd.  Apparently I can't let him out of my sight.  We had discussed getting a new dog, but we weren't dead set on getting one right away.  Or so I thought.  Just like I thought we agreed no more PUPPIES, and that we would adopt from our local animal shelter.

That didn't go as planned, at all.  James found a woman giving her away at the back end of our local Walmart parking lot.  He had just dropped me off to go grocery shopping.  We seen her, I joked and said "well give me a call if I need to add puppy food to the list".  Apparently he took me seriously because 20 minutes later he sent me a picture message and requested puppy stuffs.

He was told Zoe was about 7 weeks old.  I'm not sure if I agree with that.  Hard to explain, but I almost think she's a tad younger.  It's all in her teeth.  They just don't feel that strong.  She still can't manage solid hard food well, I have to add water to soften it for her.

Zoe (pronounced like Zoey) is very lovable.  She gets along with everyone, kids and cats included.  Well, mostly.  She doesn't seem to "like" the girls very well, but loves me.  She is in no way aggressive.  However, if Tori or Josie try to pet her, Zoe takes off running all the while she's whining also.  I took her to the neighbor's house for an introduction.  Again, when their 4 year old daughter reached to pet her, Zoe began to yelp and whine.  At Josie's birthday party, she did the same if any of the girls tried to pet her.  If she noticed a little girl coming towards her she would saunter off with her tail tucked.  I'm not sure the reason.  Neither of my girls have hurt her, not even on accident.

That first day we had her, she spent most her time following James.  If he was outside, she would sleep near my feet.  But the moment she heard him enter the house she was on his toes.  That changed by the end of the night.  Now she follows me everywhere.  And if she can't see me, she will whine.  The other day I was taking Laney out (our other dog, I'll introduce her in another post), I could hear Zoe whining inside.  When I came back in, there she was, sitting at the door waiting for me.

Zoe does have a bad habit I don't like at all.  Ok several, but most are just puppy things (such as chewing on things she shouldn't).  It appears Zoe pees when she's excited.  We put our dogs in crates at night, not together but in their own.  Every morning when I let her out, she's super excited.  Jumps all over the place.  And pees while at it.  When I first noticed it I thought perhaps she just really had to go.  Until later that afternoon.  I had taken a nap without her.  So when she seen me again, she was super excited.  And of course peed.  If I pick her up right after letting her out of her crate, she still goes, while suspended in air (I've learned to hold her away from me first thing in the morning).  She'll still potty once you get her outside.  I'm really hoping this is just a puppy thing and she doesn't continue this.  Though I have met some "adult" dogs (not old, just no longer puppies) that do this same thing.

While we may not have adopted Zoe from the animal shelter, she's still a definite keeper.  According to the person James acquired her from, the previous owner left her behind (something about the Parking Lot Woman's neighbor had a dog who had puppies.  They couldn't find a home for Zoe before moving, so they just left her behind.  Parking Lot Woman found her running into the street and took her in to try and rehome her).  So I suppose in the end, we did still end up rescuing a dog.  I still had high hopes of getting an older dog (a dog that was 2+ years old).  Puppies are easy to find homes for, but many older dogs aren't as lucky.

So there you have it.  Our newest family member.  She still needs to visit the vet.  And I'm thinking we'll try to do that this weekend.  I'm pretty sure our vet's office is open on Saturdays.  I'll have to double check that.  If they aren't, then there is a day they are open later in the evening (I know it's one of those, but can't remember which).

Signed,

Super Mom

Never Too Early

I am thrilled to have such avid readers at an early age.  Reading is very important no matter your age.  I firmly believe it is something that should begin at birth.  No, I don't mean your child should learn to read the moment he/she is born.  But I do believe it is important that YOU read to them.  It can be anything.  No one says you have to read nursery rhymes.  When Josie was a baby, I read recipes out loud to her.  As she got older, I boxes and instructions.  Eventually we added in children's books.

This is Miles.  He is thoroughly enjoying a book by Dr. Seuss.  I'm really not sure which one.  But he didn't want to give it up.  And he was even more thrilled with the book when Daddy sat next to him and read it.  This seems to be the only activity he'll be still for any length of time.

Emmit was reading Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.  I have no clue who the author is.  I'm pretty sure this book came from some military collection that James brought home from work.  Either way, it's Emmit's favorite book.

Anyone else think he has some big feet?  I love the way his feet stick out above that giant book.

Josie happens to be reading Purplicious.  From the series Pinkalicious.  I'm probably spelling those wrong, but anyone wild a child that loves that character knows what I'm talking about.  Josie has a strong love for reading books.  She can't fully read on her own yet.  But she sure tries.  Her teacher has the class working on the Book-It Program.  For February she was required to read a total of 145 minutes.  Which worked out to 5 minutes a night, including weekends.  Josie's total minutes read for the month was 265.  And that wasn't counting them all.  I had read to her last night, then marked it on the sheet.  Later, her dad spent another 15 minutes reading to her and tonight we read for 10 more minutes.  All unaccounted for.  We never added up the weekend reading.  I always forgot.

I love that my children enjoy to read.  And I'm really hoping the twins will continue to enjoy it as they get older.

Speaking of reading, I'm off to do that myself.  I forgot how much fun it is to just sit and a read a book!  I finished one today that I started last night.  Tomorrow I'll write up a review about it for you all.  Just be warned, it was an autobiography.  Totally worth a read too.  Stay tuned to find out what book I read!

Signed,
Super Mom

DIY Hair Detangler

Hair detangler, such a popular product in most homes.  From lower class to upper class, chances are you'll find some version of the stuff.  And if you're a mom, you definitely keep plenty in stock.

But this stuff can be expensive!  So I decided it's time to make my own (OK I decided this a long time ago haha).  And here's how I do it--

Materials Needed**--

Small Spray Bottle (can be purchased from dollar store, Walmart has them in the cosmetics deparment)
1/8 cup hair conditioner
1 cup HOT water
2 TSP vinegar

Directions--

Combine hot water, vinegar and conditioner in your spray bottle, shake well.  I'd say about 2 minutes.  You want to make sure the conditioner dissolves/melts.  And you're done!

Play around with the recipe.  Since I don't actually measure anything, these are rough estimates as to how much I actually use.  Hair detangler isn't exactly science.  So long as you know how to shake and pour you're good to go.

**I reused an old bottle of purchased hair detangler.  If you have one around, go for that.  If you have any empty spritz bottles (from body mists, hair spray etc) thoroughly clean them out and tada, you're recycling!  It doesn't matter what brand hair conditioner you use.  I use what we have on hand.  No point spending extra money.  Remember we are trying to save money.  Then again, feel free to go out and buy the fancy stuff.  You're going to be able to make several bottles of detangler from one bottle of conditioner.  So either way, you're still saving yourself money.

Did you try this?  What do you think of it?

*This is not an original idea obviously.  I've been making it myself for a while now, but just recently discovered there are tons and tons of other people blogging about it.*

Signed
Super Mom

Homemade Laundry Soap

So I recently started making my own laundry soap.  Only for about 2 months now.  And I'm loving it.  Thought I would share with you all how I do it.

**I have no idea if this works for a front loader.  I have no idea if this is safe for HE washers.  My washer is a top loader and about 10 years old**

Materials Needed--

1 bar soap (any works, I use Ivory)*
1 cup Borax
1 cup Oxiclean*

Grate the bar soap down.  Any grater should work.  I have a generic one sided cheese grater I bought from dollar tree.  Combine the grated soap with the borax and oxiclean, mix well and tada you're done!  I use a teaspoon measure for mine--

2tsp for small or light dirt loads
4tsp for large/heavy soiled loads

***It takes 3tsp to make 1tbsp***
Most people will use roughly 1tbsp for small/light soiled loads up to 3tbsp for the large/heavy loads.  I have found that teaspoons work great for me.

**Notes for Ingredients**

Bar Soap--I use whatever I happen to have hand.  Some will suggest using Fels Nappa (think that's how it's spelled).  It can be found in your stores laundry detergent aisle.  It really is up to you.  I suggest not using soaps that are "oily" or strongly scented.  I've used dove, ivory and irish spring (at different times, not at once).

Oxiclean--Most people will use Arm & Hammer WASHING soda (not the same as baking soda).  Either will get the job done.  I'm using Oxiclean because I happen to have 2 large tubs of it already.  If you're going to cost efficiency then I suggest the WASHING SODA.  It's cheaper and you get more.  Once I run out of my Oxiclean, I'll be making the switch to the washing soda.

I don't use liquid fabric softner.  But I do use a dryer bar.  The liquid version really isn't needed.  You can use vinegar in it's place.  And some people still use dryer sheets.  Those can be cut in half and still give you the same softness.

I've no complaints about the switch in laundry soap.  In fact, my husband finally confessed that he likes this better!  When it's all done washing, it doesn't have a gender specific smell (as he says).  It just smells fresh and clean.  He likes this because he works around a bunch of men and wasn't found of his clothes smelling flowery. Makes no sense to me, not like they are hugging each other at work.

Let me know if you try this and how you like it.

Signed,
Super Mom

Random Freebies

Who doesn't love a free item?  I tend to overstock on free stuff.  Sometimes hoarding free samples.  You never know when it could come in handy.  An example would be the free Prilosec sample I requested a couple months ago.  This isn't something I ever buy, or even use.  Nor any of the other brands/versions of heartburn medicines.  However, out of no where, last week my husband ended up with some bad heartburn that made everything uncomfortable.  Thanks to this random free item, I saved myself $5!

Free Pancakes at IHOP--On 2/28/12 IHOP is offering their customers a free short order of pancakes.  Offer valid only on 2/28/12 from the hours of 7am to 10pm.  Sounds like the perfect opportunity for a breakfast date with friends or your kids perhaps!

FREE Coral Reefs Project WET activity booklet.  Go to NOAA's home page.  Scroll to the bottom, click on "contact us".  Email them your name and address.  Then sit back and wait for it to arrive.  Or just go HERE and then email them.

FREE Otto Otter Coloring Book.  Just send an email to pninfo.@usbr.gov Include your name, address, email, telephone number and name of your requested item (the coloring book).  In this house, there is no such thing as too many coloring books!  Even these educational ones come in handy (I'm picturing a friendlier grocery shopping trip--kids should stay entertained)

Ok that's just a few I've come across tonight.  I'll post more tomorrow night sometime.  Maybe in the afternoon, just depends on how the twins are during the day.

Signed,
Super Mom

Monday's Daily Lesson

Starting today, I shall have a "daily lesson".  No, not some sort of tutorial or teaching guide.  Just something I discovered/learned that.

When you go grocery shopping, do not let your 2 year old hold on to your coupon binder.  It won't end well.  At the same time, don't let your 5 year old hold it either.

We started the trip with Miles playing with the binder.  Not a big deal really.  He was just flipping through the pages.  Until I looked away.  That snot was slowly pulling out my sorted coupons and throwing them down.  Being I was distracted, I didn't notice this.  Finally some man stopped me.  He had a handful of coupons!  Our conversation went like this--

Bob--Ma'am please stop a moment.

Me--Oh I'm sorry, am I in the way? (yeah I don't know why I would need to stop if I'm in the way haha)

Bob--No, but I wanted to give these back to you (hands me the stack of coupons)

Me--Oh.  Are you sure they are mine?  Is it that obvious I use coupons (as I cover up my binder haha)

Bob--Well, I've been following you for 10 minutes now watching your little boy in the cart pull them out and throw them down.

Me--Stalk much?  I'm kidding, thank you though I really appreciate it!

Bob--No problem.  I find it a fun hobby to stalk to women who have coupon littering toddlers (he's laughing while saying this--so glad he understood my humor)

We chatted a bit more and went about our ways.  After that I let Josie carry the binder.  After all, she is my helper.  Even with those.  She loves when the neighbor brings over the paper for me.  She rushes to the kitchen to snatch up the scissors before I can.  And she's good at it.  That girl has been known to find coupons I missed (hey, sometimes they are hidden in advertisement!).

Having Josie hold them wasn't much better.  She would look through them and ask for everything!  Okay, not really.  But she asked for everything she liked that she spotted a coupon for.  In the end,  I did cave and buy her some of those Lucky Charms cereal bars.  After all, I had a coupon for it.  And through her whole list, she only asked for things we had a coupon for.

Which reminds me.  I decided to pick up a box of Cinnamon Toast Crunch.  Happens to be Josie's all time favorite.  Here's the short conversation we had about that--

Josie--Mommy do you have a coupon for that?

Me--I don't think so.  You have the binder why don't you check.

Josie--(after taking a moment to look) Mommy put it back, there's no coupon!

Me--Josie, it's ok.  We don't always need a coupon.  But next time we'll make sure we have one.

Josie--Oh I'm telling Daddy.  Better put it back.

Me--Josie do you want your favorite cereal or not?

Josie--Mommy I love you.  We'll just pretend we had a coupon but gave it to some other girl.

Me--Josie, I love you.  But let's not lie.

Lesson learned.  Don't let the toddler hold the binder, he'll just pull them out and earn you a stalker.  And don't let the 5 year old hold it either.  She turns into the Coupon Police.

My Sunday Plans

I've got big plans for today.  I think it's time to officially to sort out my clothes...AGAIN.  I seem to do this often.  I toss out more then I'm bringing in.  Right now I have a drawer crammed full with shirts.  Most of those shirts have been sitting there, unworn, for at least 6 months.  It's time to be honest with myself.  I'm not going to wear them.  I like them, I think they are cute/nice.  I'm just not going to actually get around to wearing them.

So, my plan is to sort them out.  And I'll actually toss them with my yard sale pile.  Not going to throw them in the trash, offer them on Freecycle, or cut them up into some new random project.  We only have a couple more months before the yard sale season hits.  And I want to make some money!  I still have things left over from last year, that I will put out yet again.  But now I have new stuff.

On top of my clothing that I'll be putting out, I have some of the kids' clothes and toys.  I have 3 large diaper boxes filled with summer clothes for the girls.  However, most will be too small come summer/spring/warm weather.  We'll keep a few things to get them by until I can buy "new" stuff.  But no point letting the girls put the clothes away if I'll just end up telling them to take it off.

I really need to figure out how to set things up.  I don't have tables to use.  And no garage.  So hanging clothes won't work.  Okay, well I do have one card table to use.  And I'll probably pull out my long coffee table.  Oh oh!  And I have a decent sized piece of board/wood I can use to make into a table.  I'll get it all worked out somehow.  I'm just not doing a tarp on the ground with mounds of clothing.  I'd never sell anything that way!

I also think I'll just do a set price for things.  Such as "women's tops $1, girls tops $1..." etc.  Instead of doing individual prices for everything.  Granted, I'll still have some things with an actual price tag.  But not the clothes (unless I think it warrants a special price).

But for now, sort out my clothing!

Signed,
Super Mom

P.S. It's going to be warm today.  Only 9:30am and it's already 51* outside.

Total Addiction

Okay, so I have plenty of addictions.  And most are healthy.  None are illegal.  But right now, I'm just loving Listia.  It's sort of a mix between Freecycle and eBay.  The Freecycle mix is that everything is free (though you may have to pay shipping sometimes--more on that in a minute).  The eBay mix is that you bid!  But you bid with credits, not money.

The only time money is involved is if a person requires you pay shipping on an auction.  And that's something you'll know before you even bid.  But most auctions (okay, the ones I view) offer free shipping!

Earning credits is easy also.  You just list your own items!  And you can either offer free shipping, or charge the winner the shipping fee.  It's up to you.  They also start you off with some credits.  When you join Listia via THIS LINK, you'll start with between 100 and 400 credits.  You don't lose credits for being inactive.  You won't lose them for doing searches.  The only time you "lose" credits is if you win an auction.  Oh something else that's nice, when you are viewing an auction, it will tell you how many credits you have to bid on that item.  Very handy if you're currently winning another auction.

You can find all sorts of stuff on Listia.  Movies, games (board, outdoor, computer--all sorts), greeting cards, collectibles, shoes, clothes, cosmetics, pet supplies, coupons for FREE products (not the ones that require a purchase to get the free item), school supplies, gaming systems, cell phones...EVEN GIFT CARDS!

The gift cards are awesome.  People offer them for all sorts of stores, and at varying values.  Some will just be "change" left over ($1.36 Walmart gift card is an example).  I've even seen some with a value over $100!!!  But be warned, if you're just signing up you'll have a hard time winning one of those right off.  They tend to go for tons of credits (usually between 5,000 and 20,000+).  But like I said, it's easy to earn.  Just list some things you've been meaning to get rid of anyways.  Browse around if you're not sure.

So what are you waiting for?  Why not sign up?  It's totally free.  You won't get spam email from there, or any members.  Any credits you earn stay there until you spend them (and win).

Ok, I'm going to go there now.  I need more box tops (ya know, the ones you turn in to your child's school).

Signed,
Super Mom

One Sick Baby

My poor little girl is sick.  She woke up this morning with a sore throat and coughing.  The coughing wasn't too bad really.  In fact, I forgot about that aspect of her being sick.  She hasn't complained much, more just about her sore throat.  And of course, she refused medicine this morning.  I didn't push the issue.  At the time she didn't have a fever.

Around 7:30pm I went to kiss her on the forehead and she felt really warm.  Then I noticed the slightly puffy lips.  Always an indicator for Josie.  I don't know why, but if she has a fever her lips give it away.  So, sure enough her temp was 100.6.  Nothing too serious.  She did agree to take some medicine, but it had to be red and cherry flavored.  Thankfully that's exactly what I had to offer.  Sadly, I had to explain the importance of taking medicine only as directed.  Because once she finished her "cup" she asked for more!  Darn goober.  But I think she understood.  And she certainly knows not to take ANY medicine (not even cough drops) without first asking Mommy or Daddy.  Plus, she can't reach any of it...yet.

Not sure if she'll go to school tomorrow.  There's that stupid "24 hour fever free" rule.  I hate it.  I understand it's importance, but I still hate it.  I figure I'll check her temperature in the morning, if she doesn't have a fever then I'll send her.  But then I risk her getting one while at school and having no way to pick her up.  I just really hope she doesn't have one tomorrow.  I don't want her to miss out on her class Valentine's Day Party.  She's been looking forward to it all month.  And earlier she finally convinced me to fill out her cards (I'm a sucker for long eyelashes and puffy lips haha).  Granted if she misses the party, she'll still get some of the goodies.  Her teacher knows she has a sister there to send it all home with.  And I'll have Tori take her (Josie's) cards in.  This way her's get passed out and her classmates can drop theirs off in her box.

Anyhow, hopefully she's fine by morning.  Have a feeling she won't be.  I better rest up while I can.

Signed,
Super Mom

Tori's Birthday Party (forgot to post)

I forgot to update on Tori's party.  It went smooth for the most part.  We did have one girl show up that wasn't on my list of guests.  She was invited, but no one told me she was coming.  Worked out ok though because one of the girls that was invited didn't show up.  So all was well.  Everyone had a great time.  Here are some various pictures of the birthday.  Just the "supplies", not the actual kids.  I was going to share some of those, but I didn't ask permission to post photos of someone else's child.  Not a risk I want to take.

This was our version of Pin the Tail on the Donkey.  We chose Dudley instead (my husband misspelled his name haha).  I printed out curly pig tails for each of the kids to use.  They had fun with it.  Image of Dudley provided by my husband.  He's so awesome.

These are hairbows I made and attached to bobby pins.  I used Platypus tape.  I think it's a cheaper/generic version of Duct Tape.  The bows were cute, but not a good idea.  I recommend sticking with Duct Tape for this project.  The Platypus Tape didn't stick well, and I ended up having to redo them all.

Here's a few of the Harry Potter necklaces I put together.  Once that was done, I created little bags to seal them in.  The bags are actually snack bag sized ziplock bags cut down to size.  Then I found some decorative paper, stapled it on, and put my stamp on it.

And these are the candy bags.  Again, snack bags cut to size (the necklace bags were actually left over from this project, and they were the perfect size, so no waste!).  I used peppermint patties as the candy.  Then cut out (imperfect) circles and stuck it to each side.  And on the top I added an image from Harry Potter (no image on the back side, just the red circle).  Kids thought these were cool also.

And this is the birthday banner I printed out.  The font is actually Harry Potter themed.  I didn't think it was anything awesome, but Tori loved it.  She now has it taped to her closet walls.  And yes, I was tacky and used duct tape to stick it to the wall.

I was not impressed with the cake.  We ordered it from Walmart Bakery.  It was the only HP themed cake they had.  Personally, I would have preferred a darker shade of green.  Not much darker, but the "field" is just too bright.

Here are the goody bags (again made by me--used brown lunch bags and decorated), the water bottles (which I have already posted about) and the bubbles (again decorated to fit the theme).

And this is the sign I taped to the front door, outside.  Some of the kids hadn't been to our house before.  So I figured adding some sort of sign would help them know they reached their destination.  Tori now has this taped to her bedroom door.

Overall, the party was a success.  Now I'm moving on, and preparing for the next party.  Josie's birthday is March 11th.  Thankfully hers will be easier.  She's turning 6 and wants a princess/Pinkalicous theme.  I've already got a couple ideas for it.  And a good portion of the things I'll want/need can be picked up from the dollar store (erm dollar tree).

Signed,

Super Mom

The Crayon Roll

Well I finally did it.  I made my own crayon roll.  It was by far much easier then I expected.  I followed a tutorial for it of course.  And I highly recommend THIS ONE.  I only made a couple changes to it.  If you're anything like me, not perfect at measuring and cutting, I would add an inch to the dimensions all the way around.  I also used velcro tabs to close it.  I did use the ponytail holder as suggested in the tutorial.  But after I finished sewing it, I was not in the mood to sew on a button.

Velcro tabs come with a sticky back.  This way you just attach and go.  I like to make it a little more secure though.  Which is why you see the hot glue gun.  After sticking the velcro tab to the hair tie, I hot glued the button to the top.  This way when it's wrapped, you see the pretty button, not the sticky back of the tab.  I hot glued a button to the spot I wanted it to close at.  And stuck the other side of the velcro to that button.

Here it is unrolled.  Do you see how funny the first and last crayon looks? (above picture)  I'm not so good at sewing at an exact measurement.  The tutorial I followed was great!  Her measurements left room for seams and sewing.  I just sewed too tight of a seam.  If you just add an extra inch to the dimensions, you could avoid that problem.  Plus the crayons would be tucked in more.  As in, not nearly sticking out the top when you open/close it.

Here in this picture (above) you can see the velcro tab underneath my button.

And as I roll, the crayons got a little weird.  Again, my own fault for not being exact.  I'll be making another. For the neighbor girl.  And I WILL use the same tutorial.  Just adding in a little more room for my failure haha.  Also going to make a couple for the twins.  I hear these things are great for when you go out somewhere.  Have you been to a restaurant that gives your kid some paper and then only 2 crayons?  How can they think that's fun??  Most times they aren't even colors you can mix to create a new.  The ones I'll make for the boys will be smaller.  The pink one here was for Josie (since I stole her crayons for it haha), and it holds 16 crayons.  The twins' will only hold about 8, they don't need more then that.

I'm going to also make the boys their own journals.  Yeah, they are too little to know anything about that.  But this way, they will have their own books to doodle in.  And they'll be used for when we go out somewhere (not just eating out either, as that rarely happens, but shopping too).

Signed,
Super Mom

P.S.  I definitely felt super after I gave this project to Josie.  She just loves it!  Now hopefully no more lost crayons.

Message in a Bottle

Message in a Bottle

by Super Mom

Spinning down, down, down

Emotions running high

The blood is boiling through my veins

And my pain is seeping through my eyes

The need to do it eating me

I need to feel the pain, the burn

The need to feel and see it seeping out

So confused, no where left to turn

All alone in this world

No tears left to cry

So many unspoken words

My canvas is a lie

My message in a bottle

Throw it to the sea

Won't some one find it

And finally rescue me

Spinning down, down, down

My eyes are closing shut

The release is taking over

There's no where left to cut

Hoarding

Last night, I finally came to the realization that my husband and I are hoarders.  Not quite like the ones you see on the television shows though.  But, given the chance (i.e if we had no kids) we could probably get that bad.  I like to think my husband is worse than I am.  And it's true.  He was way more stuff than I do.  We have 3 decent sized closets in our trailer.  Only one is semi usable.  And that is in Tori's room.  Her closet is pretty messy, but for the most part, it's her stuff.  The things that used to be in there?  That was moved over to another closet.

My bedroom is the messiest of the whole trailer.  This morning I tripped trying to get to the bathroom.  When I fell I landed into a pile of clothes, and a taken-apart gun of some sort.  I have a nice sized bruise from that.  But, the tripping didn't end.  Once I reached the master bathroom door, I had troubles getting in.  And once again tripped INTO the bathroom.  The door is on James' side of the bed.  His clutter is so bad, that it's spilled into the entire room, with the exception of my side of the bed.

On my side, yes it's cluttered.  Against the wall.  I have a card table that has craft stuff stacked on it.  Underneath is about 3 large diaper boxes filled with more misc. craft things and random stuff.  I tell myself it's ok because hey, it is out of the way.  Truth be told, I haven't touched most of that stuff in over 6 months.  Main reason being I just have no where to put it.  No where to really work on crafts because James has so much stuff thrown about the trailer.  If I had a craft station that was accessible, I would be using these things weekly, if not daily.

I decided to get a start on cleaning up the bedroom once again.  And broke down in tears.  I started at the bedroom door with the intention of working up to the closet door.  Plan was to stack things in there to tackle later.  I know, bad plan.  I shouldn't be hiding our clutter.  But for now, that's what I was going to do.  Once I reached the closet I felt good.  And then just lost it.  I opened the closet door only to discover James had already filled it.  Wall to wall.  Floor to ceiling.  There's one opening to fit maybe one box.  I couldn't believe it. So now, I have a stack of things I intended to store away to sort better later (summer clothes, misc boxes of things, and hunting gear that isn't being used), and no where to put it.  I suppose it's all being stacked in front of the closet door.  The whole purpose of clearing that area was so we could get into the closet.  But seeing that it's stacked so full, doesn't matter if we can access it or not.

I should also mention that there was a huge stack of clothes in front of the closet.  James' dresser is positioned over there.  Why were the clothes on the floor?  Simple, he can't fit them into the dresser so he just made a stack.  I had a hard time telling what was clean and what was dirty.  Things I thought were dirty went into a hamper (along with clothes I didn't want to sniff to check) and clothes I knew were clean were tossed onto the bed.  You can't see the bed anymore.  Again, another lost cause.  No other place to put his clothes, so I'm sure they'll end up on the floor again.  A lot of it he can't fit, yet he's too lazy to sort them out.

I'm not sure what my next step will be.  But sadly, I have to find a way to finish the bedroom before he gets home.  If not, then the things I want him to sort will never be sorted, just tossed back to the floor.  I have an empty storage bin, well sorta.  Currently it's holding the overflow of dirty laundry.  Once I empty that (I'm washing laundry as I attempt to de-clutter), I will mostly likely add his overflow of clean clothing into it.  At least this way they are in one spot, not scattered.  I'm going to find a way to clean up the bedroom.

I'm looking forward to June.  My mom is coming up to help.  And it's already been decided James is not allowed in the house while we sort.  More will get done if he doesn't see what is being tossed.  He actually confessed last night that he has things in boxes he knows he would use.  But he couldn't tell you what those "things" are, or which box it is.  He just knows he wants what he has the boxes, that's why it's still in boxes.  I can't take this type of living for much longer.  I want this trailer to feel like a home.  I want it too look and feel inviting.  I'm tired of tripping.  Tired of squeezing through things.  Tired of moving something to get into one area only to have to move it back again.  I'm tried of feeling so low and disgusted with my own "home". There's just too much to be done alone.  It's too overwhelming.  Even thinking about it is difficult.  But, I do try.  I try my hardest to just tackle it head first, alone.

Wonder if I can get on that show "Hoarders".  Get me a small cleaning crew and we could have it done in one day!  Maybe two.  Might have to spend day one just sorting it out, and day two figuring out how to organize it.

Oh well.  this is life.  But, not one I'm comfortable in.  I want to feel clean.

Signed,
Super Mom

You Won't Understand

No one will understand.  And I don't think I can explain it enough for you.

Yesterday (Friday) I took a pregnancy test.  No, we weren't trying.  Yes, I'm taking birth control, and religiously at that.  But, I had a reason to believe that I was either pregnant or I had ovulated.  It came back with a "maybe".  It was one of those "1 line means no, 2 lines means yes".  The control line was dark and no doubt there.  However, the result window, the one that determined your results, was faint.  There was a line, but it was very faint.  So, I thought, OK I'm pregnant.

As the night progressed I slowly allowed myself to get excited.  After all, James was teasing me about it.  Which was even better, since he really doesn't want anymore children.

And then, I took a test this afternoon.  A digital test so there is no doubt.  And it came back "not pregnant".  I instantly began crying.  I actually DID want to be pregnant.  I can't believe I allowed myself to fall for it.  I allowed myself to get excited about something that I knew most likely meant no.  I should have known better.  After all, I did at one point spend 2 years of putting myself through that.  Only difference is at the time I was trying.

This is hitting me hard.  James doesn't want more.  The only way I'll have more is if the birth control fails.  As I thought it did this time.  I can understand his reasoning.  He'll be 40 years old in a couple months.  That's hard for both of us.  I'll be 27 in July.  Such a huge age gap between us when it comes to have babies.  He keeps telling me he's just going to get fixed.  After today, I'm tempted to tell him to shut up and do it already.  I'm so done with this.  I'm tired of getting slightly excited only to find out the test was a fail.

Oh well.  So goes life.

Signed,
Super Mom

Harry Potter Galore

Well, it's getting closer to Tori's 10th birthday.  And she has requested a Harry Potter themed party.  That can get expensive if you're not careful.  Luckily, I was able to make use of things around the house to get me started.

I started with invitations.  No, they don't look as good as store bought ones.  But, they still get the message out.  I used my PrintMaster program to achieve the "postcard" look.  And then I glued on various Harry Potter images.  The images were provided by Shel's Tarts & Crafts.  I thought she did a truly amazing job considering she doesn't know much about Harry Potter.  I also used Avery White Postcards/Index Cards paper to print them one.  Comes 4 to a sheet, so I didn't need to cut.

Next, I decided to make Harry Potter water bottles.  These were very simple.  I wish I could remember where I got the idea and instructions from, but I can't.  I took the images I got from Shel and glued them to blue cardstock paper (I cut the paper across the short distance, so 8 inches long, and then it was 2.5in tall).  Take a piece of packaging tape a little longer then your cut paper.  Place the paper face DOWN on the tape, then wrap around the bottle.  Because the tape is longer then the paper, you start with it taped to the bottle.  And once you wrap around to the end, there should still be tape to tape it down again.  I ended up using 2 pieces of tape overlapping so I could cover the entire label.  This way if the images/paper gets wet it would tear or "leak" ink.

And next I am making these pendants as party favors.  I created these images myself.  I have others (Hermione, Ron, an owl, etc).  Squares are my thing lol.  I used scrabble tiles to create the pendants.  And then stringed on some tiny seed beads.  It has a lobster claw closure so the kids can take them on and off without stretching and breaking the necklace.  I only finished one so far.  I'm going to need 10 total.  Well, that's assuming everyone shows up.  Which is why I haven't made them all yet.  Although if I have extras, I could either use them as prizes or sell them (I've been known to get $20 for one necklace made like this).

I'm being smart this year with the party.  It is NOT going to last 4 hours.  Just two.  And I've figured out how to fill in the time.  We're going to have one game, "Pin the tail on Dudley".  James will be drawing "Dudley" on a poster board for me (Ok really, it's just going to be a goofy cartoon-ish boy drawing.  Who's to say there isn't a Dudley out there somewhere that'll look just the same?).  And then we'll hopefully have 2 craft projects to do.  I want to get materials to make their own HP themed wands (looks easy enough--needs chopsticks) and then their own quills (really it's just regular ink pens wrapped with thread and a feather attached).

We'll see how it goes.  Her party is scheduled for Feb. 4th, a week after her birthday.  Wish me luck!

I Have a Goal

Ok I did it.  I went ahead and gave myself a "new year resolution".  Normally I don't do this because I think it's dumb.  Don't be hating, it's just not my thing.  Remember, I said setting a resolution is dumb, not the person doing it.  I don't think any less of a person for having a goal or anything like that.

Anyhow...

My goal for 2012 is...

DE-CLUTTER!!!

It's not going to be an easy task.  I've yet to find a "program" that works for me.  I don't want to take the entire year to get through this junk, yet I can't do it all in 30 days (flylady's way, which is pretty good, just not ready for that pace right now).

I'm going to focus on one room at a time.  And I'll work on it everyday.  Well, everyday that James has work haha.  Since it's *mostly* his clutter, I can't let him see me going through it.  I'm going to start in my living room, to include the cabinets that extend in there from the kitchen.  I'm going to make 3 "piles"--

1.  Keep
2.  Yard Sale Worthy
3.  Toss

And after the yard sale, I'll sort that stuff again.  Except it'll go down to 2 "piles"--save for the next yard sale or toss.  No more bringing in more junk without getting rid of some old.  I have 6 cabinets that extend into my living room that aren't truly functional right now.  They just sorta have junk crammed into them.  Not organized.  It's just stuff we needed out of the way and crammed in.  It's seriously dangerous to open some of those cabinets.  Things could easily fall out and hurt you!

Thinking about it, I might need a 4th "pile".  One for my stuff.  I know I have a few misc. things stuffed into the cabinets.  And most is various craft items I'd like to keep but need to put in a better spot.  Which is why the laundry room will be my second area to clean.  It's so cluttered in there that I can no longer properly store my craft items.  Sad thing is, I don't even have much craft stuff in there anymore!  James has been storing boxes of junk back there.

I think while I'm working on other areas of the house, I'll have James focus on our bedroom.  I'd like to make use of our closest.  It would be great to store his "end of the world" junk in there (yes, my husband truly believes the world will end in December this year).

I think I want to get another card table for my bedroom.  Put my craft stuff in here instead of the laundry room.  It's where most of it is anyways.  Just not organized very well due to lack of proper storage and the stuff.

Jeepers it's 1am!  And I don't get to sleep in tomorrow.  Not even sure I'll get a nap.

That's my plan, my goal, my resolution.  De-clutter this trailer!

Signed,
Super Mom