Thursday

40 Weeks and 1 Day Pregnant

Ready to pop?

Baking Buddies

Today, Big Sister and Little Man helped me make brownies. Of course, I use the word help very loosely.


They did indeed make cleaning the bowl much easier. As you can see, they were more than happy to take care of the remaining batter.

I love you my sweet little ones!

Wednesday

Another Due Date Has Come and Gone

In less than two hours, this baby's due date will become yesterday. You would think I'd be used to this, with both Big Sister and Little Man being born after their due dates. However, this isn't the case. I've been holding on to the hope that this one would be on time or even early. Apparently, our babies take after their late mama and not their punctual dada.

I'd like to say that the third time is a charm and I'm handling the waiting game with such grace. I want to say I'm savoring every moment of my last pregnancy while enjoying as much time as possible with my husband and children before things get even busier.

The truth is that I'm emotional and even angry some of the time. I want to meet this baby, but I don't feel ready for the responsiblity of three children. I'm fretting about the things I feel I should do to prepare for the baby's arrival. Meanwhile, I'm feeling guilty about not spending that time with my husband and children. It is a vicious cycle.

I'll feel embarassed a week or two from now when the baby is in my arms and pregnancy is a thing of the past. I'll think of how silly I was to be so impatient, yet nervous about the baby's arrival. Until then, I'll be praying for the grace to truly savor this precious time. Oh, and I'll definitely be enjoying the funny looks I get when people ask when I'm due and I get to tell them yesterday.

Switching Handbags Made Easier

From purse, to clutch, to diaper bag, and back again, I'm constantly changing the bag I carry.

It all depends on whether I'm on an errand with the kiddos (usually), on a date with Hubs (rarely, unfortunately), or off traveling to exotic places (um, never).

If I was switching to a smaller bag, I was constantly having to take certain things out of my wallet. Fortunately, I've found a better way to easily switch bags. I've traded in my wallet for a simple card holder.





I picked this one up at Target for under seven dollars. One side holds several cards and keeps them secure with a strap. The other side has a window slot for an ID as well as a long pocket perfect for stashing cash. The middle section is a long zippered pocket which I use for change and receipts.

Now, as I'm heading out the door, I simply toss this into whatever bag I'm grabbing. It fits perfectly both in small clutches and filled-with-everything-but-the-kitchen-sink diaper bags.

As an added benefit, it is small, so it forces me to clean it out on a regular basis. After all, do I really need that Starbucks receipt from June?

This may not be the most stylish wallet option, but it does keep me from having to grab the diaper bag on a date night! It works for me.

Head on over the Rocks in My Dryer for more tips.

Tuesday

Bloggy Giveaway

*Updated*-I'm closing the entries and selecting a winner. I'm sorry to do this so early in the day, but I'm truly leaving in less than two hours to go have a baby! Thanks for understanding and check back soon for the winner.

Okay, so I tried to come up with something cute and trendy to give away. But, with a due date of tomorrow, I've got baby on the brain.

I've decided to give away a copy of either I'm a Big Sister or I'm a Big Brother. We used the big sister version when Little Man was born, and now we're reading both of them-- to the respective child of course.

We've found these books to be simple, yet entertaining. We have even referenced them months after the newest little one was born. So, if you are about to add a sibling to your family, you just might want to enter this contest.

Simply leave a comment on this post by Friday, February 1. Be sure to let me know which book you'd like. I will randomly select a winner on or before Sunday, February 3. Please note that this contest is open to both bloggers and non-bloggers with an address in the United States. Good luck!

Now, please head on over to Bloggy Giveaways for more chances to win!

Monday

Daddy's Girl

Big Sister obviously takes after her Daddy, who is an engineer. Take a look at the picture for proof.



Let me explain. The picture is of her fancy new bike toy. I believe it is called a Smart Cycle. However, due to some vigorous pedaling, the pedal fell off the bike.

After trying to reattach the pedal herself and being told by me that I would do it after nap, she took matters into her own hands.

It looks like it won't be long until those hands are more capable than her mama's. Of course, not that this mama tries very hard. I'm more of a "let's see if Daddy can fix it when he gets home" kind of girl.

Saturday

You Don't Have to Convince Me

Today, as I roamed around the blogging world, I stumbled upon the Org Junkie's Monthly Organizing Round-up. I say count me in!


My husband affectionately, (at least I think so) calls me the most disorganized, organized person he knows. This is so very true. Therefore, I will certainly be able to find something to organize each month. In fact, I'll probably look forward to it. I likely won't stick with keeping it completely organized, but hey, maybe she'll do this again next year.

The first month involves picking something in the kitchen to organize. I know exactly what I'll do. This should be exciting--for no one but me and the few others who like to make organizing somewhat of a hobby.

Unfortunately, this organizing might drive my husband crazy as he'll have to figure out where I've decided to store things for the week. Actually, he should be safe for the first month as I'll be working on organizing the spice cabinet. I'm pretty sure he only ever reaches for salt or pepper.

Friday

Bad Start, Good Finish

This day didn't begin as one of my better days. I wasn't exactly a good example of a mother. I was more of the non-example. I'll leave it at that.

After a long day and a quick dinner, Daddy headed out to spend time with friends. I'll admit that I dreaded the two hours until bedtime.

The three of us went upstairs. I folded laundry while Big Sister and Little Man played in another room. But, after folding the first towel, I felt convicted. I remembered that the laundry will ALWAYS be there no matter what I do.

So, I stopped after folding that one towel. I tossed it on top of the basket of clean, unfolded clothes. Then, I walked into Little Man's bedroom where the fun was happening.

As we played with Tinker Toys, cars, pillows, balls, and everything else they could find, Big Sister asked me why I was playing with them. Ouch.

I reflected on that for a second while I simply told her that it was because I wanted to play with them. Her question made me realize that I need to get my priorities straight.

Before we knew it, it was time for Little Man to go to bed. Rather than rush him through his routine, I chose to read several books to him and rock him a bit longer than usual.

Then, Big Sister and I headed downstairs so that I could finally teach her how to play Memory. We used a fraction of the cards and she did great. We each savored some hot chocolate as we played. Afterwards, it was time for coloring. Again, before we knew it, it was time for her to go to bed.

We read some new books. They were longer than our usual nighttime reads. Then, thanks to one of the new stories, I spent quite a bit of time convincing her that midnight was not going to come and "get her" tonight. But, that is another story for another time. We prayed and sang and it was finally time for a little peace and quiet.

As I came downstairs, I saw the empty mugs stained with hot chocolate. Paper and stickers were still scattered on the table and the Memory game sat on the kitchen counter. I couldn't help but smile and be thankful that the day ended on a much better note than it started. I also thought that the peace and quiet that I'd been waiting for, may be just a tad overrated.

Thursday

An Interview with Big Sister

I was inspired by this post by Jmom to ask Big Sister a few questions. It went something like this...(My additions are in the parentheses.)






What are you good at doing? I'm good at standing backwards and climbing one step at a time.


If you had ten dollars, how would you spend it? I would stand backwards on my foot.


What are you afraid of? Buck (our yellow lab). Is monsters scary?


Who are your friends? KK, Luke, and John


What is important to you? KK


What is your favorite book? Tails.


What is your favorite food? Tomatoes (not true), carrots (also not true)


What is your favorite thing to do? Going backwards on my foot and turn around and hop on my foot.


How do you show your family you love them? Share.


What do you want to be when you grow up? Do fancy things, but when I get married.


Why? Because I like doing it (fancy things).


What are you thankful for? Mama and Papa (excellent answer).


Tell me something about God. I love Him.



Finally, here is a picture of Big Sister smiling so hard that she couldn't keep her eyes open.
Oh, how I love this silly girl!

Wednesday

A Record For Sure

Today we went to Sam's Club and spent less than three dollars. I have the receipt to prove it. We bought one, count it, one, gallon of milk.

Why, you ask, would one, who is mere days away from having a baby, take two small children out to buy one gallon of milk? It was purely for entertainment. Sad, I know.

Yes folks, that is how desperate we can get around here when the weather is so cold.

Kathy's Pizza (Easy Homemade Pizza Crust)


I recently tried this recipe and found it to be both easy and tasty. The fact that it requires no kneading will make it a regular at my house. I can't take credit for it, that goes to a lady named Kathy who attended our previous church.


Kathy's Pizza


1 1/3 cups warm (not hot) water

1 teaspoon sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 packages instant yeast


Mix together with a wire whisk.


Add 3 cups of flour all at once. (I used a blend of wheat and white flour.) Mix with a fork until all of the flour is absorbed. Form a ball--do not knead. Cover the bowl with a towel and let raise 20 minutes.


Oil hands with olive oil. Lift dough onto a stone or oiled cookie sheet. Spread out and top as desired.


Bake at 425 degrees on bottom oven rack for 20 minutes.


Enjoy and head on over to Rocks in My Dryer for more Works for Me Wednesday tips.

Tuesday

Not Listening? You Don't Say!

Big Sister has a thing for jewelry. I can't say I'm surprised since I'm a bit of an accessory addict. It doesn't have to be expensive, I just like the variety. Big Sister seems to like the colorful and sparkling. Normally this amuses me. Like the time we were getting ready really early in the morning to leave for a road trip and she insisted on jewelry before we left. A sweat suit just isn't complete without a plastic pearl choker.

Anyway, we frequently shop at a nearby Target. This usually works well. However, Big Sister has recently discovered the jewelry displays. Right now, the trend in jewelry seems to be the bigger and brighter the better. Big Sister can get into that. Needless to say, it takes a little coaxing to drag her away from the displays.

I typically try the old we're leaving without you tactic. She doesn't want to be left, and of course I'd never really leave her, so this usually works well. Yesterday, however, she added a new twist. She took a little longer than usual to follow after me. As she came running after me in her big noisy rain boots attracting the attention of all nearby shoppers, she shrieked “you're not listening to me!”

Oh, really. And to think I thought I was the one who wasn't being heard.

Monday

More Belly Laughs (At Least for Them)

Overheard today as I stood in the doorway to my bedroom...

"Mom," whined Big Sister. "I can't see. Your belly is too big. Please move." She actually smiled a sly little smile when she finished this comment.

Later, I was still trying to laugh at that comment when the man at the gym had another one for me.

"Aren't you going to zip that coat?" He asked with a chuckle.

"Ha, ha," I said. It was pretty clear that I'd need few more yards of fabric to actually zip my coat.

Who knew I was so funny?

Sunday

You know you're a parent when

you find yourself taking a bath and reading a parenting book to relax. Clearly, I need to expand my reading material.

Although, the truth of it is, the book did relax me and help give me some perspective. Still, I might try a magazine next time.

Something I Didn't Expect to Have to Tell Them Not to Do


The sad, or funny thing depending on how you look at it, is that I would most certainly be lying if I told you this was the most disgusting thing Little Man ever put in his mouth.


For the record, I did tell them both that we don't put shoes in our mouth. I'm sure they heard me loud and clear since I was both laughing and taking a picture.

I can definitely file this one away in things I didn't expect to have to tell my children not to do or eat. Now I know!

Friday

Is it Time?

Oh, why do I torture myself so? I've been analyzing every twinge and pain thinking that maybe, just maybe this baby will surprise us before its due date and weigh in less than eight pounds. It might, but if history repeats itself it won't.



Our second baby came later than our first, and while we won't let this one go much past the due date, it would probably like to, just to show up the first two.



But, knowing in my head that this baby will likely be late does not stop me from encouraging it to make its debut. I've been walking mile after mile on the treadmill and ingesting massive amounts of spicy food. I suppose I'm a glutton for punishment or at least heartburn.



The ironic thing is, as much as I want to meet this baby, a big part of me is still trying to hold on to these days of just the four of us. Change is like that. It can be so exciting and terrifying at the same time. Not to mention the fact that my children are going to outnumber my hands and I'm pretty sure that isn't good for the general public.

Oh, I'm so excited to meet this little one, but just like when Little Man was born, I wanted to hold on to my baby (Big Sister) for just a few more moments. Of course, I'm learning that they will always be my babies regardless of size or birth order.



So, now, I'm trying to enjoy each moment and not long for the next. But, I must emphasize the word trying because in the middle of playing or cleaning, I am completely aware of any small ache and I wonder if maybe, just maybe...

Thursday

That About Sums it Up

We were driving home the other day. I glanced back at Big Sister and smiled. She smiled sweetly back at me. I was thinking how blessed I felt that she was my daughter. I was pretty sure she was thinking she was lucky to have me as a mom.

I puckered up my lips and blew her a big kiss.

Without missing a beat, she sent back an elephant kiss that closely resembled spitting.

That about sums up some of our days around here.

Wednesday

Creative Cleaning

I suppose one would call it creative cleaning if say, while two children colored at the kitchen table, one decided that she needed a cleaning rag. She might get that rag and use it to dry the table still damp from mama cleaning it after lunch. The mama would probably tell her that it was a good idea and thanks for helping.

The other child might follow suit, only this one might decide the table would get cleaner if he dipped the rag in the dog's water bowl first. The other, though older and knowing better, just might also get her rag wet. They might then take advantage of the fact that mama still thinks they are coloring (as it has been a whole two minutes since she checked on them) and continue to dip their rags into the dog water bowl and "clean" things around the house.

Once mama discovers that the rags are being used for purposes other than those intended, she might decide it is time to tell them to put them away. Of course, in the process, the phone may ring and mama just might answer it. As she becomes distracted by the terribly important phone conversation about preparations for her friend's daughter's upcoming birthday party, she might forget about the rags.

If she did forget about the rags, it is quite possible that the two children would continue to "clean" the house with dog slobber water. It is also quite possible that when the mama realizes the conversation needs to end, the children would both be putting the wet rags into their mouths for reasons unknown.

The mama then just might decide it would be better to go straight to nap time rather than take disciplinary measures. After all, she probably couldn't help but notice that her floors do look quite a bit cleaner.

Easy Browning of Ground Meat




If you're like me, you'll appreciate any kitchen tip that makes preparing dinner just a bit faster and a bit easier.



I heard of or read this idea somewhere, though I'd certainly like to take the credit for thinking outside of the box.

Not so Good Picture of my Pastry Cutter/Dough Blender :-)



In order to easily crumble ground meat while you're browning it, simply use a pastry cutter. It makes quick work of breaking up chunks of meat. I've found this particularly useful for cooking up large batches of ground meat to store in the freezer.



This certainly works for me and I hope it helps you. Head on over to Rocks in My Dryer for some more useful tips.

Monday

Taste Buds

After observing my three year old for well, about three years, I have a question.

What in the world is going on with her taste buds? Seriously.

How in the world can she refuse to take more than one bite of a rather bland, though tasty bowl of baked potato soup, and instead eat strawberries dipped in ketchup? Then, as if that weren't enough, a mere hour later she follows up her bath by licking lotion off of her hands. What!?

Don't even get me started on how many times I've found her hiding and eating dog food.

Aren't taste buds supposed to dull as we age? If that is so, maybe there is hope for her eating "normal" food combinations one day. Until then, I guess I better hide the dog food and keep a close eye on my lotion.

Sunday

All Dressed Up With Someplace to Go

Holiday Party 2008



For whatever reason, the company my husband works for has its holiday party after the holidays. Normally, this is fun and adds something to look forward to in January. However, being eight and a half months pregnant and dressing up don't usually go hand in hand in my world.

Still, I'm glad we decided to go, swollen ankles and all. We had a good time and even spent a few minutes on the dance floor. And, yes, I did get a few questioning looks as I waddled out to dance. Hubs and I joked about how funny it would be if my water broke while we were dancing. Of course, that didn't happen.

Instead, what happened was we got to spend an evening together visiting with friends we hadn't seen since we'd moved back to the Midwest from the South. And, I might add that I had a pretty hot date.



Friday

Seven Random Things

Fun! I was tagged for a meme by Edi at Exotic Eating. I'm supposed to share seven random things about myself. This should be pretty easy since my posts are mostly about the kiddos.

Here goes!


  1. I'm a twin.
  2. My all time favorite candy is semi-sweet chocolate chips. Sad, I know.
  3. I was certain I'd never live in a southern state. We lived in Arkansas for three years. I loved it. If only our family lived further south, I'd move back in a heartbeat.
  4. I love to read and usually have three or four books going at any one time.
  5. I could eat chips, salsa, and guacamole everyday for a very long time before I tired of it.
  6. I'm always trying to get organized. As my husband would say, I'm the most disorganized, organized person he knows. It's true.
  7. I'm the queen of half-finished projects. This probably goes along with number 6.

As for tagging anyone, I'm not sure of the blogging etiquette of this, so I'll just leave it open to anyone who'd like to participate.

And, because I think I'm supposed to post this meme's rules....

  1. Link to the person who tagged you.
  2. Leave comment on that person's blog.
  3. Post the rules on your blog.
  4. Share 7 random and/or weird facts about yourself on your blog.
  5. Tag 7 seven people at the end of your post.
  6. Include links to their blogs.
  7. Let each person know that they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

You know it's time to clean when

you have the following conversation with your daughter.

Big Sister: "Mommy, is it dirty in here?"

Me: (Surveying the family room as I get ready to vacuum) "Yes, a little bit."

Big Sister: "Can I help you?"

Me: "Sure."

Big Sister: "I'll use my shovel."

Hmm, maybe it is a bit dirtier than I thought.

Thursday

A Little Obsessed

Little Man has a thing for basketballs. Actually, he has a thing for footballs, soccer balls, baseballs, and well, you get the picture. He has had this little obsession for quite some time. Here he is at ten months playing ball.

So, you can imagine his sheer joy this morning when we learned that our gym was getting rid of its old basketballs. He picked one out right away and I swayed Big Sister to get a matching one. It's just easier that way.

Anyways, Little Man held his ball in the car while I buckled him. He held it while sitting in the stroller in the paint store. He even kept a protective hand on it while eating a snack while our paint was mixed. He then held it all the way home and had to be convinced to put it down in order to eat lunch.
After lunch, he took advantage of the fact that Big Sister had abandoned her ball for blocks and dolls.

It was a source of much frustration that he couldn't easily carry both balls for any length of time.

As I rocked him before his nap, he had just one word for me, "Ball?"

Me: "You can't take the ball to bed, but you may have it as soon as you get up."

Little Man: (Looking more than a little disappointed) "Oh."

I have no doubt that as soon as I enter his room, he'll be asking for his ball. Perhaps obsessed is a bit of an understatement.

Wednesday

Because I'm Nothing if Not a Procrastinator

I decided to wait until this pregnancy was full-term (today) before I painted the baby's room. Nice huh?

Before and after pictures coming soon, unless this baby makes an unlikely early appearance before I can finish painting.

Vacuuming Stairs

Okay, I'm hoping for some comments on this because I could use the help.

We've recently moved to a house with two stories. This obviously means stairs. They are seen right as you enter the front door and they are dirty.

I've tried using my Dyson and all its various attachments, but nothing seems to work that well. I suppose if I could maneuver the vacuum and use it upright, it might do okay, but I don't have the time or patience for that.

Is there anything else that works to get stairs dirt and crumb free?

To help out more people, go on over and visit Rocks in My Dryer.

Tuesday

Almost Tidy

I was feeling pretty good about getting the house in order before we left for appointments and errands. The dishes were done, the beds were made, the children were in clothes, and I even had time to vacuum the first floor. Big Sister and Little Man were coloring, so I thought I'd just go in and help them clean up the kitchen table and we'd be on our way. Ha!


This is what I found.


The picture doesn't really do it justice. The mess was everywhere!
Oh, but they'd had fun and played well together. So, I suppose a partially clean house is as good as it's going to get for some time. No, that's not true, a clean house, I'm learning, is so trivial. Seeing my children become friends, now that really is almost as good as it gets.

Monday

A Spoonful of Peanut Butter

I was delighted to find this article when I opened my computer this morning.
It basically says that new research shows that avoiding certain foods during pregnancy and breastfeeding may not prevent allergies. As someone who literally wants a spoonful or two of peanut butter for breakfast each morning, this is good news.

Now, don't for a minute think that I was letting my guilt keep me from my peanut butter. Nope, not at all. I'm not that good of a preggo gal. I would eat it, but I would feel a twinge of guilt.

And now, because of one article, and no research on my part, I'm letting the guilt go. Sometimes it just tastes good to live in ignorance.

Excuse me, I'm off to find a spoon and a jar of peanut butter.

Sunday

Good Morning

As I sat in the living room, I heard the sweet sound of Big Sister's footsteps. I just knew she was coming downstairs to wish me a good morning and give me a big hug. I was wrong.

Instead, I got a little girl asking, no make that begging for candy. It was truly the first thing that came out of her mouth. Not a "Good morning," but a "may I please have some candy."

Of course, I did the parental duty of saying no and explaining that we don't eat candy in the morning. That got me a little girl who threw herself on the floor and tried to have a fit.

Oh, a good morning indeed!

Saturday

Party Day and a Deeper Thought

Today was a big day for Big Sister. She went to her first actual birthday party. Now, she has been to birthday parties before, but they've either been for family or one-year-olds. I say those don't count. This one involved a little girl who chose to invite her. (We'll overlook the fact that the little girl's mom happens to be my best friend.)

Fortunately, I remembered earlier this week to prep Big Sister for the fact that she would NOT be opening presents. She told me that was okay and she would just help Little Man open his presents at his next birthday. (We'll have to see what he says about that come May.) As promised, she didn't attempt to open one gift. She had a great time playing games and making crafts. The ice cream was a hit as was the icing on the cake. She isn't much into the actual cake.

But, the ironic part of the morning was that I think I had a better time than she did. Despite the fact that I didn't get to make a craft, play a game, eat cake, or take home a treat bag, I had a marvelous time. The reason for this was the pure joy I saw on my daughter's face as she enjoyed the party and the fellowship of the other children. I wish I'd taken my camera to capture some of her bright smiles. I've already captured in my heart the feeling when she paused during a game to smile at me and pat me on the leg. It was as though on some level, she knew what I was thinking and was saying she was glad to be there with me too.

So, now, I sit here wondering if that isn't exactly how God feels about us a lot of the time. It must make Him feel so good to see us enjoy His many blessings. But, I must also ask myself, when was the last time I looked to God and just acknowledged Him and said thanks?

Thursday

Who Knew?

Tonight, as I rocked Big Sister, she asked why there was a baby in my belly. I decided to simply tell her that it was because God decided to give us another baby. She decided I was wrong. Rather, she told me I took adult medicine and got a baby. Um, okay. Then, she proceeded to ask me if I'd get her some "girl medicine" so that she could have a baby. Right, can't we just go to sleep?

Stepping Stools

I thought I had solved the problem. Somehow, I thought that if I put the step stool up on a high shelf, I would keep Little Man from accessing forbidden territory around the house. Silly me. I obviously didn't do a good enough job of putting away the "step stools." If I had done a thorough job, I would have also put away all boxes, laundry baskets, pillows, large toys, and of course, the dog. These are really only a few of the things that Little Man can turn into a stool in order to reach high places.



Obviously, if he is resourceful enough to solve the problem of how to reach Mommy's scissors or Big Sister's special tea set, he is smart enough to understand limits. So, I've been starting with the kitchen chairs. They are to stay at the table, period. They aren't to be pushed around the kitchen in order to access light switches or the kitchen sink. So, tonight, after getting a few cute pictures of him being naughty, I told him no and put the chair back at the table.



Within five minutes, he dumped his collection of toy cars and trucks out of their basket and carried the basket to the kitchen sink. After getting a few cute pictures, I put him to bed. I do believe I have my work cut out for me.

Wednesday

The Power of the Kitchen Timer to Ease Transitions (Or Something Like That!)


There is something almost magical about the oven timer at our house. It has authority that I, as the mother, apparently do not possess. We use the timer for almost everything around here. It helps transitions go much more smoothly with Big Sister, who is 3. We set it nearly every night to let her know when it is time to go upstairs to begin her bedtime routine. Sometimes we set it to let her know when we need to leave to go somewhere. Occasionally, I'll even set it to get her to stop repeatedly asking the same question. That scenario goes something like this...


Big Sister: (7:00 a.m.) “Will you please call Sally and see if she can play?”


Me: “No, it is too early.”


Big Sister: (7:01 a.m.) “Will you please call Sally and see if she can play?”


Me: “No, it is still too early.”


Big Sister: (7:03 a.m.) “Will you please call Sally and see if she can play?”


Me: (Remembering the magical timer) “No, I can't call her yet. I will set the timer and when the timer goes off, we can call Sally.”


Big Sister: “Okay.” She then usually scurries off to play.


At this point, I set the timer, and all is well until she returns three seconds later to begin a round of questioning about a snack, or if she can play with Play-Doh, or some similar topic. Seriously, though, the timer almost always works. And, don't tell, but I've been known to pretend to set it a time or two as well. This generally happens at nap time when Big Sister requests I set the timer to know when she can wake up. Um, yeah, I certainly don't put a limit on small children sleeping around here, so only the pretend timer works in that situation.



I'm certainly not the first mom to come up with this wonderful use for the timer and I won't be the last. I just know it has helped us immensely and I certainly wish I'd had the idea sooner. It most definitely works for me.
To find more ideas, (likely more original than this one) head on over to Rocks In My Dryer!

Tuesday

Isn't It Obvious?

The other night at dinner, Big Sister announced that she was spitting her water in her cup. The following conversation ensued.

Me: "Why are you spitting your water in your cup?"

Big Sister: (Looking at me as though I had four heads) "Because I wouldn't want to spit it on the table."

Me: "Oh, okay."

It was hard to argue with that logic. I'll probably have to stop that little trick at some point, but she was the only one left at the table. I have a hard time stopping entertainment that keeps her occupied and doesn't make a mess. What's a little spittle in a cup when we're used to bodily fluids on the floor?