No way....NOT ME!!!

It's Monday, and that means it is time to share all the things I would NOT, could NOT, should NOT do. And I DIDN'T. Like, I didn't tear a napkin in half to scrawl a note excusing my son's absence from school while he was climbing out of the car. I am not so terrible at applying mascara that I use vaseline eye makeup remover every time I put it on. And I don't have a jar of mini reese's peanut butter cups stashed in the BACK of my cabinet so I can keep them all to myself.


For starters, I am well aware that baby gear and items are constantly changing, and I do know that companies come up with nifty new items all the time, and are constantly improving on the old ones. This weekend, Jeremiah replaced 2 of our Avent bottles, and threw out the old ones because they were pretty funky. So, this morning, when I was getting a bottle ready, I was confused when I saw a little piece fall out from under the nipple and wondered what that was all about. I did NOT decide it probably was not that crucial to the operation of the bottle, and left it sitting on the counter.  I did not hear shrieks about 5 minutes later, and turn to see Jack drenched and dripping with whole milk. I am certainly wise enough to know how to use a bottle, so the woman who soaked her son because she was too lazy to figure out what that extra piece was.....well, it WASN'T ME!

I certainly DON'T blame unhealthy wants on pregnancy cravings....NEVER EVER. So, I did NOT go against my better judgment and pull through the McD's drive thru and order some hash browns, and rationalize it by saying to myself, 'This baby NEEDS the carbs and the starches.....it is CRUCIAL for her development.' And I did NOT devour those hash browns (they sell them in pairs-- I only wanted one, but I didn't want to hassle the McD's staff by asking them to break apart a PAIR) like there was no tomorrow because I was trying to get those essential greasy potatoes  nutrients straight to my baby girl. 

After repeated failed attempts, I did NOT all but give up hope of ever getting my real estate sales license. I had NOT gotten so accustomed to coming within ONE measly point of passing, that I had started to question whether I was smart enough to ever pass the state exam. So, when I was handed this after taking the test.....

....I was NOT completely confused, and in a state of near shock that I had finally conquered the beast. And of course, when I did get this certificate that I had worked so hard for, I definitely treated it like a special treasure and put it away somewhere safe. I DIDN'T leave it on the coffee table where one of my children mistook the paper for a giant coaster, and set their sippy cup down on it. I am sure the people at the Department of Business and PROFESSIONAL Regulations will be thrilled with their newest member when I turn my stained form in.

Oh, and I did NOT get in a little argument with my husband earlier this week and was grouchy and irritated that he was not helping me, but making a phone call I deemed unimportant. We NEVER argue about silly little things that. As I was frantically pacing the kitchen trying to get dinner on the table in time to eat and run out to Tyler's t-ball practice, I was silently fuming and plotting to give my husband the cold shoulder the rest of the night because I was so frustrated and overwhelmed. So, since I had made up my mind, it was NOT this wife who completely caved when her husband brushed by her, smelling delicious from his cologne, and looking cute enough to nibble. When I steel myself, there is NO turning back, and I certainly would NOT let go of time-toughened upset just because my husband smelled too good and looked too cute to pass up.

Finally, my children are always well-behaved and at least follow the basics of being kind to others, respecting their elders, and NEVER causing harm to others. So, it was NOT my child who, THREE separate times, decided to throw his big brother's Bakugan toys at some of the other little boys, while we were waiting for Kaiti to finish her dance class. I did NOT try to tell myself-- and the other moms-- that since those toys are shaped like a ball, he was probably just confused and doing what he would with any other ball. All hope of that theory slipped away, when he threw the toy a second time, nearly missing one little boys head, and turned and smiled a wicked grin at me. He certainly did NOT do it a third time, despite my repeated 'NO Jack!'s, and on the third time, I did NOT start handing out my insurance information to the injured parties......(okay, it didn't come to injuries, unless you count my motherly pride.) So, it is NOT this child who acts innocent and plays up the cuteness, while hiding the sinister trouble-seeking quality that lies beneath the surface!

who, ME?????

NO WAY!! NOT HIM!!

MAIL!!!

The mailman arrived and he brought me some goodies. Oh, I love goodies. I figured you do, too, so I thought I'd share.

So, I have a deep fondness for Etsy. Deep, I tell you. I am amazed at all the goodness you can get. I am equally amazed at the ideas that are shared, and the fact that the majority of shop owners allow you to customize an item. I heart customizing. I heart anything that allows me to put an individual spin on things, that allows me to tailor something to my own needs.

My first exciting arrival.....a purse my husband bought after some pretty serious hints (read: blatant, specific, web-address-included emails).

Here's a picture of my bag-o-delight. Isn't it delightful?? Oh, I just love it. I love it sooo much, in fact, that with Mother's Day approcahing, I've already got my eye on another one of Anny & Me's beautiful bags. You can check out their shop by clicking on their shop name. Can you tell Anny & Me has a new fan in me?

I apologize for the bad lighting. I wanted to take these outside in natural light, but it is really cold outside. I don't like the cold. 

Here is another up close photo of the lovely fabric. The great thing about this bag is that it is not too big, not too small, and the shape is unique and so unsquare. I like not being square. And I have already gotten a TON of compliments on it. I like compliments, too. I really like this shop!!

I've also been shopping for my new little lovely, Little Miss Evie. I have found a bunch of pretty little things for her. Like these.

I got these adorable baby girl shoes at Princess Boutiq. When I opened the package, I literally squealed. They are soft and the epitome of precious. I cannot wait to put these on her sweet baby feet. I got one pair in 0-3 months, and 2 more in 3-6 months. Here's another look.

Oh my goodness, aren't they sweet? And the best part is.....right now Princess Boutiq is offering customers a buy 2, get the 3rd free deal!! Beanies, shoes, flower sets and leg warmers!!! I am not sure how long this is going to last, so check it out now. For less than $30 I got 3 pairs of adorable, handmade knit baby shoes. Oh, that just pleases me so!

And then there are these delightful cubes. 

These little sugar scrub cubes are good enough to eat, and the scent is just divine! I got these over at It's From Arizona. The jar came packed full of cubes-- I already used a few. Trust me, I cannot stop smelling my skin. I am now a convert. I used to spend a small fortune for great sugar scrubs at Sephora and other stores.....until I found these. They left my skin feeling silky soft and smelling heavenly. You just grab a couple and take them in the shower with you.. You HAVE to try these.

I can't wait to try out the next scent. The best part-- these jars are only $6!!! Oh, and the sweet woman behind the shop shipped them right away, so I was scrubbing my skin to silky smoothness in no time. Seriously-- go order!!

I also happened upon Snuggy Baby. This shop sells some super cute slings in great fabrics. I snatched one up!

I cannot wait to cradle this sweet baby girl to my chest. You have no idea!!

I love the adjustable ring, and the pleated shoulder. Fashionable, and practical!!! I tried it on and loved it. And to up the cuteness factor EVEN MORE, Snuggy Baby sells matching little girl slings for your little one to cradle her dolls near!

This one is Kaiti's!! She immediately put her baby doll in it, and wore it around all day-- even to her brother's t-ball practice. 

We love our mommy-daughter slings!!!

And not to leave Tyler out on all the Etsy fun......I got both big kids coloring wallets from Dolka Pots!! I only took a picture of Kaiti's because I am not sure where Tyler left his. And they have already gotten a ton of use.

These coloring wallets just the right size, so I can carry them in my purse without taking up much space. They love being able to have their own stash of paper and crayons with them where ever we go. In fact, Tyler told me he can't wait for my next OB appointment, so he could use his coloring wallet!! 

Based on their reactions, you think I'd gone and picked some moon rocks for them. Really....my husband and I kinda giggled as they were profusely thankful at Panera tonight. Go check out Dolka Pots.....she's got lots of cute fabric!!

For all 3 of my little ones, I got these.

one for Jack

one for Kaiti

and one for Tyler

I got these reusable snack pouches at Cotton Top Quilts. I was sick of using ziploc bags for snacks only to throw them away, and replace them again and again. Aside from feeling like I was not being kind to the planet, I wasn't thrilled with constantly throwing away money, either. This wonderful shop solved my problem. The top is velcro, so the kids can open and seal them easily, and the pouch is pretty roomy. Perfect for a quick breakfast on the go (yes, I am guilty of that-- but honestly, I have kids who really enjoy eating dry cheerios), a snack to take to dance or t-ball, or just something to keep around in my purse in case hunger strikes. And with my 3, hunger ALWAYS strikes. The best part is, the kids don't see these pouches as a useful thing, they just see their cool, individual pouches to keep food treasures in. I love it when I can mask utility in the form of a true treat!!

That's about it for the past couple weeks. Can you see now why my husband is trying to set up parental blocks on my laptop to remove Etsy from my viewing options? I smell an intervention brewing!! I am sure I will have more to post soon, since I am waiting on a couple more pieces of mail!!

'Til next time......

a short short

I have a video for you. But first....

As I type this, my littlest son is laying on a new pack of toilet paper.

Well, actually, now he is standing on the toilet paper, trying to jump off, and looking around to make sure he has an audience. And in the time it took to type that sentence, he has since followed his sister into the kitchen and stolen a cookie from her. She is calling him a naughty boy right now, and telling him it's nice not to take things that aren;t yours. I should probably intervene. But then I'd have to get up, and you'd miss me. I'll just let her handle this one-- for your sake.

I bet you were not counting on a live stream tonight, right. Yes, I am talking to you Dad-- the one person who reads my blog. I bet you were not counting on the live streaming post, right Dad?

Oh, and sorry for the picture above...it was taken with my cell phone. Jeremiah took Tyler to his final t-ball practice before opening day on Saturday, and my camera happens to be on the front seat. I was trying to catch a beautiful moonrise the other day, but it didn't work out.

And since I threw in one poor quality picture, here's another. Cause I like things to be in even numbers.

This is my daughter, after pasta. After Cajun pasta. I went a wee bit heavy-handed with the crushed red pepper and cayenne, and her poor lips paid the price. It was a little funny. She, on the other hand, was not amused. In fact, she decided to create her own home remedy which consisted of cold water, a 6-inch-thick layer of vaseline, and a quick downing of fruit snacks. It didn't work though. In case you were wondering. On the plus side, if you were considering having your lips plumped (yes, you Dad) don't bother with the Botox injections....just come on over and I'll fix you some supper!

I am supposed to be studying for the state exam that is scheduled for tomorrow. I studied earlier, but needed a break. Okay, that's not really true. I certainly didn't need a break, I just couldn't stand to read any more about liens and deeds and what conveys the legal title. It's gripping stuff. I really need to pass this time-- getting a 74 (twice) when I need a 75 to pass really messes with your mind.

I might need to change the title of this post to 'I've lost my marbles. Can you help me find them?'

My purpose here was not to lull you off to sleep or to make you question my sanity......too late, right?

My mom used to say that. She was so cute. She had a way of telling a story that seemed to include about 14 minutes of random other thoughts, and about 1 minute of the point she was trying to make. She'd start with something like "So Bob was telling me we have a trip to Japan scheduled-- which reminds me, I went to the doctor, and he said my blood pressure looks great. Isn't that good news? And speaking of good news, did you hear all that negative stuff that's been on the news about Kathy Lee Gifford? Judge not lest ye be judged. I hope I have taught you girls that. Hey, have you talked to your sister today? She was telling me something funny about..." And about 13 minutes later, she'd finally get around to telling you about Japan. And most of the time, it would be something pretty important, something that should have been said immediately. In journalism, we called that burying the lead. In the Pedrick house, we called that 'my mom'. We teased her all the time about it....so much, that around the 13 minute mark, she would ALWAYS say "So, to make a long story short......I know.......too late......."

Gosh, I miss my mom. I think about her stories and the things she unknowingly taught me, all the time. I also think it is funny that my sister inherited her way of telling a story, but somehow, I did not.....

So, what was I saying again?

Oh yeah, cajun chicken pasta. It's good. But go easy on the cayenne, especially if you have littles.

Just kidding. Here is that video.

But real quick, Kaiti just came up to me and asked me if she could have a treat. Apparently the fruit snack home remedy, and the cookie-her-brother-tried-to-steal-from-her-but-she-wrestled-free was not enough.

'Kaitlin, you just had two treats. You don't need another one.'

'But mommy, they were short treats. And I am groooooowwwwiiingggg. And that stuff you made hurt my lips and another treat would feel me better. Pleeeeeaaaassssseeeee. {whimpering now as I look at her somewhat pathetically} The other treats were just too short for me Mommy.'

I said no. She is now huffing in her room, rubbing her belly like she is about to collapse from sugar deficiency.

Here's that video. First, though, you should scroll down and mute the music player.

Not ME!! Monday

So, by now, you all know how this works right? Monday's give me an outlet to expose the more gritty moments of my life as a wife and mother share all the things that could have, might have, almost happened during the past week or so. So sit down and join me, and write your own. It might even make me feel a little better, you know, if these things really happened.....


First, I did NOT come dangerously close to throwing a hissy fit the size of Texas at the Apple store this past week. After taking my laptop in to get repaired (Jack might have pushed it to the floor.....and I may have spilled chocolate milk on it a few weeks before that), and having to work on my husband's PC which drove me to the brink, I was beyond giddy when Apple called and told me after a week that my macbook pro was all fixed. So, loading the 3 kids in the car, we went to the town center- which is ALWAYS crazy- and arrived at the Genius Bar for my appointment. After 30 excruciating minutes os 'Please don't touch that', and 'Because, honey, THAT is way more than you make in your allowance ALL YEAR!', finally a tech comes over to me, and says, 'I'm sorry, Mrs. Nelson, there appears to be some confusion. Your laptop is not fixed, because, umm, it CANNOT BE FIXED.' Me-- 'I don't understand...your tech looked at it, told me he could fix it, told me the cost, I signed the papers, you've had it for a  whole week....I don't understand.' The tech: 'Once we got it in the back, we realized we could not fix it. It would be more cost effective for you to just replace the whole machine.' Right about then is when my chin did NOT start trembling, my face did NOT grow hot, and my voice did NOT catch in my throat as I tried to mutter, 'But getting a new laptop is $800 more than the price I was quoted to fix my machine, and our insurance company has already closed the claim....' The tech looked around helpless as my kids, knowing mama was about to lose it, stared up at her with wide eyes, almost begging her to make it better. I did NOT call my husband and tell him I needed him to hightail it over to Apple before I got a little lippy & started tossing iPods (kidding-- kinda), and I certainly did NOT start singing Jimmy Crack Corn in the middle of the store.....(a former boss once told me that singing that song calms you down some and shifts your focus, and I've come to find it works for me, despite the fact that all around me are dialing the 911 and reporting the grown woman who has lost her marbles singing next to them...)
-- side note, I am typing this post from a new computer....grrrrr----

I did NOT wake up on Friday sick as a dog and beyond exhausted when the alarm went off to find all 3 kids in bed with me. And I did NOT break my own rules and go against my better judgement when both Tyler and Kaiti said they were not feeling well either, and thought they should both stay home from school. Knowing this was just them trying to take advantage of the fact that I was sick,  I SHOULD have said, 'No way, up and at 'em kiddos, let's get dressed.' So, I did NOT say, okay, well, if you are sick we better stay in bed and watch TV all day, because I was willing to bend the rules if it meant even just 30 more minutes of rest in my pjs.

Just yesterday, I did NOT open the fridge in the garage, see that there was only ONE strawberry kiwi juice box left, look around to see if anyone was watching, then grab it, poke the straw in, and swig it down in one sip. Nope! Wasn't me!!!

When picking up the kids toys off the floor in the living room, I did NOT ask my husband for help, saying that it was uncomfortable for me to keep bending down to get things off the floor. As he came to help, rolling his eyes, I did NOT stick to my story and tell him that every time I bent down to get something I felt sick in my stomach. As he muttered, 'Whatever honey, I'm not buying it, but I'll help...' I did NOT bend to retrieve a sock when the LOUDEST belch ever to be recorded escaped my mouth. As my sweet husband turned to me in shock, and my face grew red, I did NOT avert my eyes and sort of desperately say, 'SEEEEEE!!!!!!'

I was NOT informed by my husband that Tyler told him all about childbirth in the car, and how a boy at school told him that when the baby is born 'It drops out of your mom's privates, and the doctor's get it.' I did NOT nearly lose my lunch and fall to the floor (okay, so I might be a teenie bit dramatic...) as I stared wide-eyed at my son who had been told more than I ever wanted his 6-year-old head to know, and made another mark in the 'pro' homeschool column I am constantly making in my head.

I did NOT get so excited that I almost had tears spilling out my eyes when I found a stash of Hershey's chocolate bars I had stashed before Christmas. First, I would NEVER hide chocolate from my family---that would be selfish! And had I found chocolate, I certainly would NOT have shouted 'WOO HOOO!!' so loud that it woke my sweet son from his nap. My goodness, I am more composed than that, and I definitely do NOT drool at the sight of chocolate. NO WAY!! NOT ME!!

Looking for more Not ME!'s? Well, you can click on the little icon below and read away!