little running feet

Why I love Friday the 13th.

2012-01-14T07:11:00.000-08:00

When I was pregnant with Miles, my due date was February 20^th. As I got closer to the date of his impending arrival, I remember thinking…okay little baby, come any day you want, but please don’t come on Friday the 13^th. I’m not superstitious, but was still hoping for pretty much any other day (except Valentine’s Day).

Of course I had him on the 13^th.

And it turned out to be a very lucky day for us!

Lucky Example #1: We pulled into the hospital parking lot at 12:30, and I was holding my baby by 3:30.

Lucky Example #2: I left the hospital just 24 hours later and I was back in pre-pregnancy pants.

Lucky Example #3: On Sunday the 15^th (less than 48 hours after Miles arrived), Mike went to work for 13 hours. Yes. I was at home with both kids for 13 hours with no help less than 2 days later. It went fine.

Lucky Example #4: No pain whatsoever with recovery. I was able to be up and chasing after Lacey nearly immediately after we got home. Probably the only thing that made example #3 possible. (I credit this to the large amounts of EPO I took in the weeks leading up to his birth...)

So Friday the 13^th is a very lucky day for us!

And just to bring everything back down to reality, Miles had really bad reflux and he was up 4 times anight for the first 7 months. Not so lucky in the sleep department!

Why the CPA Exam is So Dang Hard

2012-01-09T19:42:00.000-08:00

Q: Thayer Corporation purchased an apartment building on January 1, 2006 for $200,000. The building was depreciated using the straight-line method. On December 31, 2009 the building was sold for $220,000, when the asset balance of accumulated depreciation was $170,000. On it's 2009 tax return, Thayer should report

a. Section 1231 gain of $42,000, and ordinary income of $7,500.

b. Section 1231 gain of $44,000 and ordinary income of $6,000

c. Ordinary income of $50,000

d. Section 1231 gain of $50,000

The CPA Exam is known as "the most difficult professional designation." My understanding is that it is actually similar to taking the BAR exam, except you have to essentially take it 4 times. There are 4 sections to the CPA exam, which they recommend studying around 12 weeks, or 150, hours for each section. That's a lot of studying.

What makes it so difficult isn't sitting down to actually study the material. If you get to the point where you are actually eligible to take the exam, you know you like accounting enough to stomach the studying part. The most difficult part of the CPA exam is the sheer volume of information you are required to know.

Currently I am studying for Regulation. This is comprised of Business Law, Individual Taxation, Corporate and Partnership Taxation, and Gift and Estate Tax. Those 4 subject, are actually 3 separate classes at the college level. So I have 12 weeks, to nail down 3 classes worth of information, doing this on my own without the help of a teacher in a classroom, and no study guides, no knowledge of what are the most important things to study, and no clue on how the exam is graded. It's almost laughable because you need a 75 to pass. Not a 75%...a 75. An arbitrary number, and they don't tell you how they get to that number. Almost 25% of the MCQ's are pre-test, meaning they aren't even graded, just seeing how people do. One of the simulations is tossed, but who knows which one. You need to average about 60 seconds per multiple choice question, and when you're figuring out Like-Kind Exchanges that's a major challenge.

So I get nervous for these exams. I'm gutted. My test is next week, and I am spending almost 4 HOURS every night in the books. Just to get that elusive "75"

Are you overwhelmed yet? WAIT. Let me give you the answer to the above question:

Answer: (b) The requirement is to determine the proper treatment of the $50,000 gain on the sale of the building, which is Sec. 1250 property. Sec 1250 recaptures gain as ordinary income to the extent of "excess" depreciation (i.e. depreciation deducted in excess of straight-line). The total gain, less any recapture is Sec 1231 gain. Since straight-line depreciation was used, there is no recapture under Sec 1250. However, Sec 291 requires that the amount of ordinary income on the disposition of Sec 1250 by Corporations be increased by 20% of the additional amount that would have been ordinary income if the property had instead been Sec 1245 property. If the building had been Sec 1245 property, the amount of recapture would have been $30,000 ($200,000-170,000). Thus, the Sec 291 ordinary income is $30,000 x 20% = $6000. The remaining $44,000 is Sec. 1231 gain.

Got that? We are on the same page now right? Good.

Budget your Butt Off!

2012-01-06T14:55:00.000-08:00

I am most likely the biggest Dave Ramsey freak you will ever, ever meet. Okay, maybe not ever, but pretty darn close! He cracks me up!

Each week at work we have a "poll" of sorts on our Intra-Company website. This week the question was "What do you want to Accomplish in the coming year?" they listed about 10 choices and a whopping 27% listed "get better control of my finances" as their item of choice for 2012.

Well, so do I! (except I put "eating healthy" as my answer)

As you may know, we follow Dave Ramsey's budget forms, but the paper forms month after month were killing me (let's face it, I still haven't unpacked my printer since we moved). So I took the liberty of taking his main forms and putting them in Excel. Now it's all calculated out for me, no more pencils and calculators!!

I've emailed the Excel file to a few co-workers and family members (with Rave reviews), and thought I would offer to email them to any of you guys as well. They are SUPER helpful, and there is no better time than the beginning of the year, so if you want to check them out tell me in the comments and I will email them to you!

Happy Budgeting!!!

2012 Goals

2012-01-01T18:25:00.000-08:00

I like goals better than 'resolutions' because a goal gives me something to work towards, while a resolution is something I can only break. It's no surprise that there is no shortage of goals, but I'm going to try to nail down a few concrete ones. This isn't a list of uber amazing and inspiring goals...quite the oppose rather...but I have to put them somewhere or else I won't be accountable to anyone or anything.

1) Pay off Debt

Do you remember once upon a time, long ago, Mike and I were on this "get out of debt" kick? Actually, it wasn't a kick and we've been budgeting since then (hello? house). However, we did do things a little backwards, and now we have to get rid of my student loans. Our goal for 2012 is to pay off $20,000 of student loan debt. It's a pretty lofty goal, and you may hear a lot of debt posts this year, so bear with me.

2) Become a CPA

I have 2 exams to pass (should be studying right now actually...). Then an ethics test, finish the work requirements, and apply for the official license. I'm so ready for this.

3) Get a promotion

I'm actually already in line for an "in-role promotion," but if that doesn't happen, Target typically moves people every 18 months, so I am hoping by next Nov/Dec I'll be moving around somewhere.

4) Learn to sew

Someone is going to have to gift me a sewing machine (see #1 above), but I really want to learn how to do some very basic sewing. I have plans to recover a couple of chairs, and to sew some Roman Shades for our bedroom, and Miles' bedroom (we have heat vents below the windows, so curtains aren't a great option).

5) Blog more

Okay, this is one of those "unmeasurable" goals, but it's safe to say that I can only go up from the amount of blogging I am doing now. Having a blog is a good way to look back and remember, and I value that, so I'm going to try to do a better job in this department. I also want to add photos to most post (okay maybe A photo...). Here:

6) Learn to use my camera

Great, a have a DSLR, but use it on "auto" all the time, so I'm going to try to change that!

Do you have any goals this year?

A year in review

2011-12-22T06:15:00.001-08:00

2011 has been quite the year for us…let’s take a look back!

January

This was a pretty major month as I went back to work, which felt like a kid on their first day of school. The kids also started daycare. Everyone managed, but I wouldn’t say it was my most favorite transition ever. We also got a lot of snow, and I spent a lot of time driving on snowy roads. We welcomed new nephew #1 as well.

February

Our little man turned TWO. Bring it on ‘terrible twos.’ Bring. It. On. Of course he was sick on his birthday with a fever and an ear infection, and of course I had to go to class that day as well….so, let’s just not focus on this birthday okay? I was learning was a 65 hour work week felt like (and for the record, not as bad as you would think). Mike went camping in the BWCA (Boundary Waters Canoe Area) and the temperature got to -30 (NEGATIVE 30) one night. I spent the next 2 days wondering if he froze to death (no cell towers up there). He was fine. Whew.

March

I did 123 individual tax returns in about 2.5 weeks. Thankyouverymuch. Towards the end of the month I didn’t have to work Saturdays, which was a major win. It snowed a lot, which is completely annoying in MARCH. I applied to take the CPA exam, and began the 8 week waiting period to see if they would approve me or not. Mike moved Jamba Juice stores, from an obnoxious mall, to fantastic Whole Foods.

April

On April 1^st we made an offer on a house in Burnsville, MN. Short sale, so sit back and wait. On April 15^th, I found out that the firm wasn’t hiring until the summer, so no concrete job offer for me. We also found out that Jamba Juice was being franchised, and on April 15^th (bad day for us) found out that insurance premiums would skyrocket to $700 PER.PAYCHECK. So now we elected out of insurance.

May

I got approved to take the CPA exams. I applied for a million jobs. I studied. I hated paying for daycare when I wasn’t making any money.

June

Still studying. Interviewed with the State Revenue Department and Target. Mike interviewed with Valley Natural Foods. He got a job offer mid-June. On June 30^th, I got an offer from Target. Woohoo.

July

Mike’s brother and his family came up on their way to moving to Perth, Australia. I turned 28. I took CPA exam #1, Mike started his job on July 18^th, and I also started my job on July 18^th. BUSY MONTH.

August

Mike turned the big 3-0. We celebrated 5 years of being married. We welcomed my brother and sister in law’s new baby (New nephew #2), on August 24^th. Remember the short sale house from APRIL? It was getting close.

September

House went through!! We moved out of our current place on the 15^th, and stayed at a friend’s townhouse for a week while they were in Hawaii on their honeymoon. We were very displaced. Closed on the 26^th!! Yay for home ownership! This was 4 short days before my next CPA exam, and 5 days before Mike’s marathon…

October

I took BEC on October 1^st. Mike ran his marathon the next day. Our little girl turned 4!! We spent the entire month painting. Literally. We rounded out the month with trick or treating in our new neighborhood!

November

Kids started a new daycare on November 1^st, and it’s going well. Started REG studies, had some hiccups with the software and our computer, that made it a little obnoxious. Enjoyed a non-mall Black Friday (in the past Mike had put in a 14 hour day). Loved that there is no snow.

December

We made it! I want to sit down and do nothing for about 7 weeks, but since that’s not an option, I will just take a deep breath and smile! We have been totally blessed, and I am so grateful for the ups and downs that this year has taught us, and everything that God has brought us through! There were times we felt totally lost, but looking back everything has worked together so well. Oh and we welcomed a new nephew #3 last night as well J

Looking into 2012…

I really hope that I can get these CPA exams behind me once and for all. We are also planning on giving my student loans a big kick in the rear end! Let’s go!

I am dreaming of a Brown Christmas!

2011-12-13T05:41:00.000-08:00

Winter is not so bad this year. This is seriously what I thought while driving home the other day in 15 degree weather. But you know what? The roads were dry, the snow is extremely minimal (…”I’m dreaming of a brown Christmas…”), and the sun was out. I’ll take it. Basically, every day that it doesn’t snow shortens our winter by that many days. Last year we got hit with our first snow storm on November 9^th. I remember it very distinctly because it was a Saturday and I was going to class (Audit, actually). However that day we were having a speaker from the Minnesota Society of CPA’s come and speak during our class, and she was late, along with a lot of other students. The snow came out of nowhere and when you try to drive in 8 inches of snow that hasn’t been plowed, you need something more than a little front wheel drive car. The snow never melted after that first storm. We got hit with another 8 inches the Tuesday before Thanksgiving, and then on December 11^th, Minneapolis got absolutely nailed with a 17 in Blizzard. Our Christmas was SO WHITE last year it was ridiculous. The snow didn’t stop then, and we just kept getting hit over and over and over again all through January, all through February, and well into March and even a little in April. Three months of winter, reared its ugly head for 6 entire months last year.

All this to say that we just passed our 1 year 17 inch blizzard anniversary with hardly an inch of snow on the ground and I LOVE it. Actually, the temperature was almost 40 degrees yesterday and the snow has pretty much melted. We’ve already cheated winter by a month, and each day that we can shorten the annoying snowy icy drives is okay in my book. It’s not that I am this bitter person who things winter is absolutely horrifying, but I honestly do not enjoy any winter activities (unless sipping hot chocolate counts as an activity…). Okay, actually I lie, because I like sledding, but really, who does that? I am terrible at ice skating and skiing/snowboarding, no interest in cross country skiing, and running on icy sidewalks sounds about as pleasant as getting a root canal. Plus with the dark setting in at 4:30, there isn’t much I can do after work. At least safely.

So call me bitter, say it’s annoying, do whatever you wish. But I truly am dreaming of a brown Christmas, and even if I don’t get my wish I am still very grateful that we’ve cheated winter this far! And I am very grateful that tomorrow the forecast calls for rain, not snow!

Annie

Mama needs a drink

2011-12-04T14:06:00.000-08:00

Or at least a break, because it has been one of those days! Mike has been at work since 6 am this morning and was due home over an hour ago. I actually made one of those desperate phone calls to him...the ones you make when you have a newborn..."Mike, I don't know where you are, but if you don't get home soon, I'm going to lose it on these kids."

They are just little terrors today. Yes, I think it's okay that I say that, because that is reality. Kids are sometimes terrible. I always feel like I'm flip flopping between who is the tough one and who is the "easy" one. Right now, Miles is TWO going on THREE. And if you know anything two is like a "haha, that was easy" joke compared to what a three year old is like. I've already been through it. Now Miles is definitely showing his 3-year old self. It's driving me crazy. Four is so much better so far!

It's definitely one of those days when I have no regrets about my work out of home decision because Lord knows that it keeps me sane if nothing else.

Neither has had a nap. It goes from giggles, to whines, to screams, to crashes, as things break, and to be honest, I am so far past the end of my rope that it isn't even funny. Actually, it is kind of funny, but it's not you know?

Lacey is crying upstairs and Miles just walked up to me crying. I asked him what happened and he said that Lacey pinched him...Why is Lacey crying...Well according to Miles, he hit her. Yep, see what I've been dealing with all day?

Today wasn't ALL bad, we did go out and sled in our backyard, I even took a spin down the hill. It was a lot of fun! We have a built in sledding hill...that's a bonus!

Okay...Mike just called. Hallelujah, he must have seen my 14 missed calls. Hehe. He'll be home soon, let's hope we all make it til then...

Giving Thanks

2011-11-23T19:54:00.000-08:00

I'm not really sure what to post about. I guess I can start by saying that I am very Thankful. Tomorrow is Thanksgiving and I have so, so much that I am truly grateful for. I could just go on and on really.

2011 is almost over, which is crazy to think about. I've almost been back to work for an entire year now, I've been slaving over my CPA books for 6 months with over 300 hours of studying put in, and I'm only half way (side note: hardest thing I have done in my life. ever.). I work for Target, which not only is an awesome place to shop, it's an awesome, awesome place to work. The kids are healthy, smart, and strong. They are thriving at daycare. They make me laugh every moment. Mike's job is new and challenging, and making him stretch himself which in my book, is always the point. Our relationship is strong as ever.

We bought a house! A house we love.

And then there are the little things. The everyday things...safety on the roads, jobs that pay the bills, wood burning fireplaces for the winter. Seriously, I feel so blessed.

The best part? None of this was my doing. It's all through Him. And that, that is a feeling I can't get over.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Babies & Kids

2011-11-19T11:26:00.000-08:00

When Miles was young, everyone used to tell me "just wait, you are going to miss having a baby so much, you'll be itching for another one by the time he's two!"

WRONG.

Two has come and gone, and THREE (!!) is right around the corner, and with every passing stage I just love being out of the baby stage!

Don't get me wrong, babies are super delicious, and I really loved having them around...for a time, but it's more of a 'been there, done that' attitude. Plus with friends having babies every month, it's not like I can't see one now and then! I had a nephew in August, will have another in a couple of weeks, and another (don't know the gender, guessing nephew) in May.

SEE? Plenty of babies. That doesn't even include friends.

Okay, let's be honest too, the cost of daycare for three children is silly to think about, and since I love, love, love working outside the home, and find a ton of fulfillment in my job, well, we aren't going there!

** Can I add that it's snowing out. Both kids are napping. I have a fresh cup of coffee in my hand. Great afternoon. Now off to study 'Secured Transactions!'

It's brewing

2011-11-12T19:40:00.000-08:00

A new idea, it's forming, and I certainly don't talk about it around here. Not yet anyway.

The "S" word, that little word holds huge weight around here. Our "S" word is Study and my husband has had it up to his ears with "I have to go out and study..."

BUT, I've made it half way through the CPA exams. I certainly still have my work cut out for me, and am not on the downside yet, but I started entertaining the thought of not having anything to do.

What would I do with all my free time??? Answer: anything I wanted.

Which is super awesome except for a few things: Mom's never have free time. Period. So if I am not busy studying, I would be busy with something else. Secondly, if I'm not learning, I am really very bored. Third, and here is my idea brewing, Target pays for your MBA at Carlson School of Management (University of Minnesota). Not reimbursement, not we pay the $5250 max per year, they full out PAY FOR IT. As in, if you can get in, we'll give you money for books and you won't see a bill.

A free MBA.

I kinda want one, something I never thought I would want, but I can see that idea changing...

I have no idea why I can't just settle down.

Still Alive/A Day in the Life/How I do it

2011-11-11T18:28:00.000-08:00

Something is terribly wrong when you open your Google reader and find over 100 (gulp) unread posts.

For real? I only follow like 14 blogs? Anyway, here is a post for you, since I am still alive and kickin' it.

I actually started by trying to do a Day in the Life post. You know a nice little chronicle about what I do on a daily basis? I ended up boring myself. I’ll break it down for you in a few sentences:

I wake up at 5:00, leave for work around 6:00; Study for an hour at work; work for 8 hours; study for 2 hours at Starbucks (twice a week); see my kids for 1.5 hours; put them to bed; prep things for the next day; go to bed.

Yawn. Boring. Yes, it sort of sucks, and yes I miss my kids, and yes, I miss sitting and doing nothing.

This whole “work-life balance” idea, the “make it happen” mentality. I swear it doesn’t really exist, but the fact that it doesn’t exist doesn’t stop me from trying to achieve that pot of gold. I get up every day at 5:00 a.m., and on a typical day I move for 16+ hours straight-- kids, studying, work, meetings, commuting, laundry, dinner, cleaning, baths, stories, bedtime…trust me, I feel the pull.

No, I’m not superwoman. I barely feel adequate on most days.

There are always those work to do items that get left to the way side-- floors, clothes, and dishes that, for some reason, fail to clean themselves. Laundry that has been sitting in a laundry basket, waiting to be put away, for weeks... As a list maker, and a Type-A to the core, there are tasks that never get that satisfying check mark in my planner. There is always the guilt that I’m not doing enough, or not being there enough for my kids, husband, family, or friends, when the truth is, I’m doing everything I can.

And you know what, most days I don’t care. That's right. I DON'T CARE.

I give myself permission to just Give it Up.

I like being busy, I love chaos, but at the end of the day, life is still reality. I’m not going to get everything done, and certainly not perfectly. I am going to run out of time, and miss-prioritize. Some days studying gets ahead of the kids, or the kids take precedence over studying. I must give myself permission to quit stressing over the dirty dinner dishes and stop to read my kids a story. I must quit stressing over the next chapter to study, and sit and talk with my husband. I must stop feeling like I am being a bad friend when I say “I can’t come, I have to study.” I can’t do it all, but I can do some of it.

Tomorrow really is another day. Another day to study, answer emails, spend time with people I love. Another day to reign in that ridiculous to-do list. I’ll be the first to admit that some days I am really good at this and some days I fail miserably. Who among us hasn’t gotten up at 4:00 am to get something done or who hasn’t felt like a rotten mother for snapping at our kids, when we are really stressing about something else. But tomorrow gives us another chance. Another opportunity to be the best, wife, mom, friend, colleague, and person that I can be.

That’s how I do it. How do you?

The Move: Part 3

2011-09-29T18:38:00.000-07:00

Monday (a.k.a. the day we became homeowners).

Monday started bright and early (as does every day). We had cleaning to do, packing to do, errands to run, and Starbucks venues to sit in. We got up early, Mike went on a quick run while I packed and cleaned (what a good wife). We left the townhouse around 7:15, and ventured over to Starbucks where we relaxed over pike’s place and a pumpkin scone (me), and iced espresso and pumpkin bread (mike). By 8:00, my achy and feverish self was strolling into Lowes, to return/exchange some painting supplies and take a quick gander at the fridges. From there we went to Sherwin Williams and picked up over $600 worth of paint (sounds like a mild heart attack, but we budgeted $1000 for everything, so we were happy). By then in was 9:00 and we were off to closing.

I called every single utility necessary on the way over to closing and got water, sewer, garbage, electricity, and gas all set up. (Working Mom tip: triple task everything).

Closing went off without a hitch. Everyone says there’s a million papers to sign, but I thought there were hardly any. It seemed like there were more when we were applying for the loan. The sellers showed up at closing, which I guess is rare for short sales, but it was nice to be able to ask them questions. Everyone ranted and raved about our interest rate, we hung out with our realtor for about a half hour afterwards and we were done!

Officially homeowners.

Went and got our already loaded up truck and drove to the house. We just moved everything into the garage, (thanks for your help). Then the annoying part sets in. We had to return the U-Haul truck by 4:37 pm (yes, that was our technical return time). We also had to pick up Mike’s car that he had left at work the day before, oh, and Comcast was coming from 4-6 pm. After they came we were going to grab something to eat and buy a fridge.

We left our house at 4, hoping and praying Comcast would be late like they usually are. We got gas in the U-Haul and on the way to get Mike’s car I called Comcast. They said the estimated arrival time of the Tech was 4:20…5 minutes from now. I freaked out. It figures the ONE TIME they are on time I want them to be late. So we decided I’d grab the car and run to meet the Comcast guy, and then Mike would deliver the U-Haul and wait for me to pick him up. Problem…when I got to the house there was no Comcast guy, and now when I called they said they didn’t have an ETA. Annoyed I waited around for a while, when I decided to go get Mike. On the way I see a Comcast van a few blocks away and I was on the phone with them. The guy on the phone said I was next up and it would literally be minutes until he was there. So I scurried back home. At 5:30 there still was no tech, so I called again, (at this point I have been waiting 90 minutes, and Mike is stranded at U-Haul), this time the guy on the phone said he left his last location 8 minutes ago. He should be there any minute. As 5:45 approaches with no tech, I am just hoping they’ll be late. They have until 6:00, or I get a $20 credit on my bill.

He showed up at 5:56. I am not kidding.

He was quick though and was out of there by 6:15. I told Mike to pick up Jimmy Johns which was close to where he was, and I’d meet him there. We got our food. It was delish (virtually only had that pumpkin scone up until now).

Now, a refrigerator. We needed something stainless to match the rest of the kitchen (I’m anal like that), and Mike was bound and determined to have glass shelves in the freezer. I wanted an ice/water dispenser. We didn’t want to spend much though. We initially went to the place that were delivering our washer/dryer. Two birds with one stone, but they didn’t have anything in our price range we liked. So we went to an appliance outlet that had rows and rows of fridges. We found a couple of nice ones but found out they couldn’t be delivered until the end of the week (!). So we ran across the street to Best Buy. We found an open item fridge, that met our requirements and was in our price range so we went with that one.

Then we went home and slept. Actually, we went home. I tried to dig out decently unwrinkled clothes for work, we went over the paint colors, and then we went to bed. It was a full day!

The Move: Part 2

2011-09-27T15:40:00.000-07:00

Sunday-

I should first point out that I was sick. Terrible cold, running a fever, and totally and completely congested. I guess I shouldn’t have packed all of my fall/winter clothes!

So, Mike worked Sunday, and my parents were coming to get the kids to take them for the week. Mom and Dad had been at a conference in Milwaukee that ended Saturday, they went part of the way Saturday and then finished the trip to Minneapolis Sunday morning. They ended up arriving at our temporary house around 8:30 am on Sunday, with a Caramel Highrise in hand (Bless you dad). This was much earlier than I expected them to arrive, but it was also super nice. I had so much cleaning and laundry to do that I welcomed the surprise! We hung out and loaded up and then they left with the kids around 9:30. I cleaned for about an hour, when I decided I needed to do some studying. I was picking up Mike from work at 3:00 and we were doing the final walk-through at 3:30, so I decided to head down to Burnsville and study down there. I am not really sure what the point of doing a final walk through was. These people could have scribbled all over the wall and stripped the copper and what were we going to do? Some random bank in CA (okay, I think Wells Fargo/Bank of America) owns the house!

I studied at Panera for a while, but it was packed and I felt guilty because everyone seemed to be glaring at me as they strolled by my table looking for a seat. It was not my fault that there weren’t any other places to sit! Even more so it was not my fault that I was taking up an entire table with my books. That’s just life. Then I went and browsed around Home Goods/TJ Maxx. They had a lot of nice décor items, but I wasn’t ready to buy anything. They also had Theory suits, which were tempting, but I passed as well.

I went and picked up Mike and we drove over to the house. Mike had also decided that we were going to pick up the U-Haul that evening- by 5:00, so we were in a bit of a hurry. We were waiting and waiting for our realtor to show up, he is rarely late and if he is, he always texts us. We gave him a call, and he had the wrong date on his calendar, seeing that he lives a good 45 minutes away, he wasn’t coming. He gave us the lockbox code and in we went. The house has 4 different levels, so we started in the lower level. I’m walking around, going upstairs, when I walk into the kitchen and there is NO FRIDGE. At this point Mike is going to the bathroom downstairs (seriously?) and realizes the water is turned off. So he turns it on and water starts spraying out of a hose in the kitchen. I’m yelling at him to turn it off, he’s 2 levels below me and completely confused.

So they took the fridge.

Everything else looked okay though.

We called our realtor and asked about the fridge and he was going to give a call to the listing agent. We had to move it up to St. Paul to get the U-Haul. We are both completely shocked that we suddenly have to buy a fridge. We were going through all the stages of grief…anger, denial, avoidance, acceptance…As if buying a house and moving isn’t expensive enough! Our realtor calls us back and says that it was written into the Purchase Agreement that they were keeping the fridge. This was MONTHS ago, and there was always some degree of confusion about appliances with this house, so it was our own fault for not writing that into the PA. Live and learn. Now we are just stressed because we need to find a fridge!

We went and got the U-Haul that night, brought it to our old house and loaded it up. Considering it was just Mike and I, no other help, we did well. We had it loaded up in just over 2 hours. Everything fit perfectly, we could not have put one more thing in the truck! We shut the door and Mike says, I wish we had a lock for this. A light bulb went off, We do! I ran to our car and grabbed a U-Haul lock out of the glove box of our car from WHEN WE MOVED TO SEATTLE. Random right? Mike also had the key to the lock on his key ring. DOUBLE RANDOM. Sometimes I wonder how things like that actually work out. We locked it up and left it in the driveway of the old house. We would come and pick it up after we closed on the house.

We headed home, ready for the big day ahead of us!

Some lessons learned so far.

1) Expect the unexpected. Something will inevitably go wrong. Take a deep breath, adjust, and move forward.

2) There is a reason Dave Ramsey says to have an emergency fund in place when you purchase a house. We have to buy a new fridge. It’s annoying, but other than that, it’s just another bump in the road, not a derailment.

3) Picking out paint colors for an entire house is expensive, and difficult

4) You should not move into a new house 1 week before taking a section of the CPA exam. I don’t have high hopes for this one.

OCD and such.

2011-09-24T04:56:00.001-07:00

Last week we had our monthly team meeting. We always have some sort of ice-breaker when we begin, and this last week it was “Tell us one of your OCD tendencies.” Now, being we are in a room full of accountants this is absolutely hilarious, because we are all very TYPE A (this should really stand for type anal). One of the team members’ wife also works at Target so he pinged her to see what she had to say right before the meeting. So, I thought it would be interesting to see what Mike had to say about my OCD tendencies, since he knows me better than anyone.

So here were my OCD things I shared at the meeting:

1) I only use yellow highlighters, unless absolutely necessary. Mixing highlighter colors on the same page majorly stresses me out.

2) I only write with .5 mm ball point pens (“fine tip”), unless absolutely necessary, meaning I’ve dug through everything and can’t find anything else.

3) Obsessive list maker. These are the current lists sitting on my desk that I’ve made in the last day:

a. Morning Kids Checklist (basically everything I need for daycare)

b. To Do: Work (what I am going to do at work)

c. To Do: House (what I need to do for moving…pick out paint, set up gas/electric etc.)

d. To Do: Closing (what we need to bring to closing)

e. To Do: Study (a day-by-day breakdown of when I will be studying over the next 3 months)

f. To Do: Multiple Choice Questions (breakdown of MCQ categories I need to do before my exam).

g. Grocery List

4) Scheduling. Everything happens within the same few minutes of each other every day (like getting up and getting out the door in the morning, I am obsessive about running on a schedule).

So then that night I went home and decided to ask Mike what he thought my OCD items were. I was pretty excited since I was SURE he’d say at least one of the things listed above. I ask him and he’s thinking about it and you know what he says?

You do too much homework.

How is that OCD? Isn’t that just my life right now?

Ha. Maybe I’m not as annoying as I thought. Or maybe he’s just used to me…

The Move: Part 1

2011-09-20T15:11:00.000-07:00

Well, we said a loving goodbye to 4919 Chicago Avenue, our home of 23 months, and begin part one of The Move. (I can't remember if I ever laid out the timeline, but basically we had a renter that needed to move in September 19th, but we can't close until September 26th. I have a friend who is vacationing in Hawaii for 2 weeks so we are cat sitting and enjoying staying at her townhouse)!

Last weekend was filled with chaos as you can imagine. Moving is always tough, you have those things that you need to use until the last minute, but then packing them always takes more space, than you plan for. Lacey peed the bed that night (seriously, it was her second time ever...great timing), so I was doing final loads of laundry in the middle of the night.

The Good:

1) We had the best. landlord. ever. at that place and he gave us our deposit and half of the September rent we paid before we were even out. No waiting time on that!

2) The kids are sharing a bed this week and so far, after 2 nights, it's going great! The first night after about 2 minutes Lacey called me in to the room and asked me "Mom, can you please find another room for Miles, I can't handle his noise." Little does she know, she is the noisy one and he falls fast asleep.

3) We have our own space here at the townhouse. We get up around 5:00 (Mike and I) and I can't imagine disrupting someone that early!

4) Our friends' townhouse has a great TV Cable/Netflix/Movie set up. Not what we are used to at all (we only have TV for movies, no channels), so we are feeling spoiled.

The Not so Good:

1) Didn't get any time at all to study last weekend. Totally not ideal when it comes this close to Exam Day.

2) Our commute is hideous. I leave the house by 6:30 am. Talked my boss into letting me off at 3:30 this week. I am probably commuting 2.5 hours a day (hour in the morning, 1.5 hours at night). Kids are troopers.

3) The cat that we are sitting is scared of the kids. I think she'll warm up to them, but I guess I don't blame her when they RUN up to her!

4)We can't pick out paint colors. We are too indecisive!!! Argh!

Passed Audit

2011-09-17T12:17:00.000-07:00

I hate auditing. So happy I passed.

Plus with a pass rate of 43% (less than half) I feel great!

3 more (very hard) exams to go!

Vacation Needed

2011-09-12T19:29:00.000-07:00

Some days (today for example), I feel like I have been moving for the past 5 years. Not moving, like packing and moving to a new house (Although this is the NINTH time since we've been married, so that too), but moving like go, go, go, go. Never stopping. I need a vacation!! I remember when we got married and our young, naive, selves talked about taking a big vacation somewhere on our 5 year anniversary. Well, then reality sets in and kids join the family, and those big vacation dreams never happened.

Maybe at 10 years...

I mean the last time we stayed at a hotel was (hold your breath...) when Lacey was 4 months old.

I KNOW!

Well, between stress of exams, stress of buying a house, and stress of this general thing called life I have been dreaming of a vacation. Today, let's visit the South Seas...Let's go to Bora Bora.

Do you even know where Bora Bora is? I didn't. I could pretend I was smart and say it was a tropical island...which it obviously is, but I couldn't tell you where. So I had to google map it.

It's South of Hawaii. A tiny island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean between Australia and South America, and like I said, South of Hawaii.

It may take hours to get there, but I still want to go...

Um, hello relaxation. This is amazing. It looks so quiet and peaceful. And beautiful. And Warm. And Fantastic.

A Plunge Pool (an infinity pool ON your bungalow ON the water).

little updates on life

2011-08-31T18:29:00.000-07:00

Wow- Everyone seems to have kids that are heading off to kindergarten this year. Lacey wants to go SO BAD, especially because "Maya is 5 and she get's to go to school." (Yep, Maya is her best daycare friend).

At this point we've decided not to put Lacey in any sort of preschool. Being an October baby she's missed the cutoff for next year as well, so why do 2 years of preschool? Plus, I am not so sure preschool is going to teach her much she isn't already learning. She's a smart one! I think one of the most important aspects of school is the social part. When I stayed home, I felt like my kids were pretty good socially. A little slow to warm up-- but once they were comfortable no issues. However, going to daycare, being surrounded by bigger, older, louder, kids really threw them off for a while! Here they were having to become friends with an entire new group of people! During circle time at daycare they talk a lot about bullying, because as you can guess the kids can be bullies some days! What I love most is that Joyce sits everyone down, talks about what happened, talks about how that makes people feel, and talks about what you should do if that happens to you in the future. I love that last part. She told me once that she really hopes that when her kids leave and go to school, and someone says "Hey, I don't like your shirt!" That her kids can think back to Joyce's house and what they learned there and remember the best way to respond.

In other news, Miles is a dream child lately, which mostly means that the tide is about to turn, but so far I am ABSOLUTELY loving the less drama that a boy brings. Not to say that Miles doesn't have his moments, he certainly does, but Lacey's "moments" seem to last a lifetime sometimes! I am always forgetting Miles is just 2.5. I wish I could just brag on him for a minute, the kid is a freaking genius (but I'll spare you). The things he tells me and the paragraphs he speaks are freaking hilarious! I love that kid so much, plus he is such a mama's boy, so when I see him after work he just goes CRAZY talking, talking, talking to me. His current favorite thing is SPIDERMAN. He runs around the house 'getting the bad guys'

Lacey is the opposite of a dream child lately. Fighting everything. Getting dressed, brushing hair, going to the bathroom, going to bed, eating, getting in the car. Anytime we are trying to be serious, she starts going crazy and laughing and giggling nonstop. Drives me slightly nuts. I suppose it's part of her exerting her independence, but sometimes it just grates at me. I am finding that with her I really have to "engage" her in things. Like tonight, for example, I had her help me pack the linen closet. Put her in charge of a few small tasks, and she was a dream. I think I need to transition thinking of her as "little" she is certainly getting bigger and wiser and wants more responsibility and more direction. Something for me to remember and us to work on!

Finally, we got the house, inspection was clean! We move in a couple of weeks. Buying a house costs a lot of money. The End.

House...sneak peak

2011-08-26T18:43:00.000-07:00

It took 5 very L-O-N-G months but we finally got approval on this sucker today...Hooray!

(sorry, this is the MLS picture from MARCH when we put the offer in...)

OMG---3 car garage---!!!!!-----ATTACHED-----no hiking through the snow to start my car...no brushing snow or scraping ice...no carrying the kids in the dark and cold to the car....LOVE.

Anyway, we are very happy. On the agenda for next week is:
1) Inspection
2) Lock-in Financing (interest rates are so LOW right now)!
3) I have month-end close = 10-12 hour work days for Monday-Wednesday. (boo)!

Geez. We will be busy!!

The house needs PAINT. Desperately. We have decided to try to paint the entire house, including enameling the trim work before moving it. It's certainly the best time to do it. We already have a renter for this place lined up, so the timing might be tricky. Paint it is our goal.

Maybe a few other minor fixes and repairs. Can't wait to show more pics!!

sometimes I get distracted from studying and I dream of owning this...

2011-08-14T11:46:00.000-07:00

Toyota Highlander Hybrid

I want one so bad, but since I have no interest in a car payment, I'll keep dreaming.
For a good, long, while.

Okay, back to studying (ugh).

up for this?

2011-08-13T11:48:00.001-07:00

Today is the day I challenge anyone who wants kids, but doesn't yet have them, to come over and watch mine. Don't be surprised if they change your mind!

A typical day starts out really well, gradually leads to more whining and bickering as lunch and naptime comes closer, then it peaks again after naps. All is well until closer to bedtime when things start falling apart again. It's a pretty typical cycle.

You just know it's going to be a rough day when it fall apart 15 minutes after waking up. It takes all my gumption to be "up for it."

I did all I could to keep them happy. Both were short on sleep, so I wasn't completely surprised. I let them play in the bath as long as they wanted, pick out their own clothes, keeping my mouth shut regardless. I let them drag out every pillow and blanket from their beds and jump on it in the living room. Today I even rearranged the furniture in their bedrooms, since it helped keep their little minds occupied.

And now, I will relish (study) in the sweet moment that is naptime.

Ahhh....

Well-Being snapshot

2011-08-07T07:36:00.000-07:00

Going to try to give more complete answers, as opposed to one word phrases.

If I could say one thing to myself 10 years ago: Ten years ago i was graduating from High School. I would definitely tell myself that the best is yet to come. You will face challenges, but you’ll get over them, you will get married and have kids, but don’t try to rush that or focus on when that will happen, and you need to enjoy your time now because life won’t always be so flexible and fun!

My favorite place in the world: Any place when I am looking over a lake, sipping coffee, and eating breakfast on a comfortable summer morning. Doesn’t that sound absolutely divine?!

The lesson I keep learning over and over: We are not in control, God is. When life seems a bit bleak, He is just working out His plan. My job is to trust and be patient, which is SO hard sometimes! However, I do hope that trust and a positive outlook is something I can pass to my kids, and I suppose it will be hard to pass that a long if I never experience it huh?

The movie I watch when I want to laugh: Oh man, I have no idea? Maybe something like How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, or Wedding Crashers. I am a fan of Kate Hudson.

The most scared I've ever been: Probably when we were in Washington. Mike came home from work and showed me a letter that said “Due to the recent economy, our company is reorganizing, and your position will no longer be needed….” I was 31 weeks pregnant with Miles at the time. They offered to have Mike to stay on as a “shift manager” but we were taking at least a $1000 pay cut per month. I don’t even know if we could afford rent. So now, refer back to the lesson I keep learning over and over again (above).

No one knows I: Can’t settle down, ever. (okay, my husband knows this and it drives him crazy). I am like a machine, I just don't stop...go, go, go...stay on schedule, no time for that, let's go! I push and push and push, until I get sick (literally), I just always want to have everything figured out right this minute, which most of the time is impossible. I am learning to settle for ‘mostly figured out.’ That’s the best I can do. (kids have helped me settle down a lot).

Unhealthiest thing I've ever passed off as dinner: Oh, good grief. If my husband isn’t home, I eat horrendously. Probably a few marshmallows and some coffee (don’t worry, I feed the kids a meal, why I don’t eat their meal is beyond me).

Personal philosophy: Always be creating goals, and then find a way to make them a reality--No matter what, don't settle, no regrets, don't be lazy. You will get there.

Book that changed my life: This is a terrible answer, but my Intermediate Accounting I textbook. It was when I discovered that Accounting is 1) HARD 2) Confusing and 3) not about math, it's about rules. Changed everything I thought I knew about accounting, so essentially it changed my life I guess.

I unwind by: Browsing the internet, wasting time looking at facebook, pinterest, apartment therapy, blog reading, online shopping etc. Mike has no idea how I can “waste” so much time online!

Proudest moment in my career: landing a busy season internship, and successfully completing it. Mike just told me the other day he has no idea how I did it working that much.

What keeps me up at night; Caffeine. (serious, I’ve made coffee at 5;00 pm against my better judgement). Also movie watching, and browsing the internet. I should probably add “trying to figure life out” I don’t sleep that well, I can’t really shut down easily. Lacey takes after me in this way, she calls me into her room over and over again, to ask a random question or shoot the breeze with me. Mike and Miles on the other hand shut off immediately. In fact once I turn off Miles’ light, I usually lay down in his bed with him. He says “mommy, leave.” To which I reply “not until I get a kiss” So he gives me a kiss and then asks for a hug as well

I define "downtime" as: Downtime is mostly when I am doing absolutely nothing, and there is nothing I should be doing. This happens, never, because you know, I can always study!

Coffee or tea? Coffee. Definitely. Lots and lots of coffee.

Guiltiest pleasure: I would have to say doing/buying something for myself. Kids are expensive, and they are the ones who grow out of everything in their closet every season, so often, they get the new stuff, and I keep the same stuff year after year. Some of my guiltiest pleasures are shopping for ME; finding new, comfortable, work shoes, getting stuff on major sale, a fresh haircut/color, and a venti soy no water chai…If I can go shopping, grab a chai, and then sit down for a cut/color, I would be in heaven. A girl can dream right?

My mom was right about: letting your kids grow up is the hardest part about being a parent. I remember seeing books with titles like “Give Them Wings” when I was in high school. But my parents had it spot on. They are so good about letting Mike and I vent about our problems, but have never offered unsolicited advice. In fact, there have been times I have wished she would just tell me what to do, but she doesn’t. Which turns out for the best, because only we know what is right for us, and only we can navigate and figure it out. Now that I am a parent, seeing them become older and more independent is definitely a hard process, but it’s also rewarding.

My mom was wrong about: not much...

The last time I lost my temper was: Last week at Mall of America. I am not going to lie, having a 2.5 and a 3.5 year old is, as Mike puts it, wicked. It was a rainy morning and we decided to take the kids to annoying MOA to go on a couple of rides. The mall had just opened so we thought it would less busy. We were dead wrong. It was total chaos. Initially the kids were fine, but once we got out of the stroller to go on a ride, getting back in was not an option for them. Screams. Then Lacey pinched her finger in the stroller. More screams. We left with 2 screaming kids, through the parking ramps, where some lady had the audacity to ask us if she could have our parking spot. For realz? Do two harried parents, with 2 screaming toddlers really look like we are in the mood. We had both kind of lost it.

My favorite moment of the day: I love waking up on a semi-chilly morning, after getting enough sleep and everyone else is still sleeping, and drinking those first few sips of coffee.

I wish I had more time for: DIY projects. So many ideas, so little time. oh, and I wish I had time to run.

I'm currently reading: Wiley CPA Exam review: Business Environment and Concepts. It sucks and is dreadfully boring in case you were wondering. I am currently studying derivatives and hedging. Good times.

Home means: It definitely means where I can be myself and just relax!

to Catch Happiness

2011-08-05T19:11:00.000-07:00

**I wrote this post a couple of days ago at my lunch break. Though I'd better get it posted!

...

For some reason I have this quote written down in the front cover of my CPA book, it’s by Benjamin Franklin it says “The Constitution only gives people the right to happiness. You have to catch it yourself.”

Hmmm. I must have written it down because it resonates with me, so here I am at my lunch hour thinking about it (basically because the thought of studying right now makes me want to scream). Mike and I are on the cusp of buying our first house. I finally (finally!) have a good job. Mike just started a new job, more in tune with his passions, and the kids are happy at daycare. At the moment life appears stable. It probably looks pretty darn good actualy, rest assured we still have anxiety builders!

Something I am learning is that perfect stability is constantly eluding us. At the moment, the big things are in order, but the little things are constantly surrounding. The fact that I never have a list of go-to sitters (and I could really use one everyday this weekend), which leaves Mike and I juggling our schedules constantly. The fact that our shocks need to be replaced on our car, because I went over a pothole last week. Our daycare is closed for a week in August and guess who has no vacation to take off, so we are juggling what to do with our kids. If we actually end up buying this house and move we need to find a new daycare, that's major stress. Our to-do list, is far longer than our we-did list. It can really go on. Trust me, we do love our life, but some days its hard finding happiness in the day to day things. The broken cars, the messy house, the endless laundry, the grocery shopping...

The biggest and best example I can think of is when we moved to Seattle. We moved there for no good reason, except that we were so over Minneapolis and we wanted a change. That in and of itself is fine. But looking back, we thought that getting out of MN, getting out of the snow and the cold, the in-laws I don’t mesh with, the mundane day to day life would make us happier. In hindsight I see that Mike and I were coming off of getting married, starting back at school, getting pregnant, having a baby, we were just bored. Oh the lessons we learn!

Seattle did not make us happy. It didn’t make us unhappy either. But Seattle was no different than Minneapolis (except more expensive). We still went to work every day, still had complaints about the weather or the traffic or the fact that there weren’t any Super Targets (ha-ha…seriously though, Seattle- what is up with that?). I was still overwhelmed with a baby and being pregnant, we never had a day off without Lacey (my first time away from her was when I was in the hospital having Miles). It was the same. It was good, but it was hard. Let's face it, sometimes life is hard, and un-exciting.

We are approaching our 5 year anniversary in a couple of weeks. The time has really flown, but we have been juggling and figuring out from day one. That’s life. That is how we have adjusted to life. I am starting to learn that there will always be juggling. There will always be to-do lists, and chores, and day-to-day. There will be mountains. However I have learned one thing. Houses, Jobs, cities, conveniences, and things do not make a person happy. We are so often looking to "the next big thing" The house we want to buy, the new car, the new computer, the new furniture, fridge, etc. etc. etc. that we forget to just stop. breath. enjoy. To “catch” happiness, it’s very possible that we need to look at our mundane, day to day lives, and appreciate the exact moment we are in.

Like for example this morning in the car on the way to daycare Lacey was singing “Christmas time is hear, Christmastime is here” to the tune of Deck the Halls. That was pure happiness.

Work-Life Balance...that thing we call "life"

2011-07-31T11:01:00.000-07:00

I don’t have any mom-friends in Minneapolis that work full time outside the home. It can be a little lonely, feeling like have a huge portion of my life that is so foreign to so many of my friends. I sometimes feel like I am out on a branch, alone. Of course we are all overwhelmed in one way or another, and trying to walk that fine line between “family time” and “me time," to strike that perfect balance, but it’s hard to not have anyone who can totally relate. Anyway, I’d like to share some of my thoughts on work life balance, keep in mind I am not a writer, so these thoughts may be kind of random. I'm learning how to balance everything as I go!

One thing I learned recently is that people can be "Amazing at 3, Great at 5." This refers to the number of “hats” we are wearing. What this means is that if you try to wear more than 5 hats, you are likely either not going to wear it well, or your other hats won't fit quite as well. I think there is some wiggle room for each individual. For example I wear 4 hats – Wife, mother, employee, and CPA student. Every time I try to take on something else, maybe volunteer my time, or try to get into a new exercise routine, something else suffers a bit. (Of course if any of you are like me, you understand that the roles of Wife and Mother also mean by default you are the household Accountant, Financial Manager, Events and Activities Director, Social Coordinator, and Dietician). I suggest that you take some time to think about what or number is and evaluate whether you are taking on too much. I have found that 4 is all I can realistically wear. I can try to be a dedicated runner, or a very social person, always available to hang out, but I can only do those things at the expense of my other hats.

In all honesty, I would rather be wearing 3 hats, and then the option of changing around that 4th hat, depending on the day, but that's not life at the moment. Which brings be to another takeaway, some of our hats are just momentary. I won't always be studying. After I pass these exams (so like at minimum 9 months from now...), I won't be studying for a LOOONG time. I'll always be a mother, but my kids (sadly) won't always need me like they do now, etc. So enjoy the roles you are in now. They'll always be changing. If you don't think you are wearing enough hats, pick up some more!

The other thing on my mind is getting rid of the guilt. Mom’s LISTEN UP—I’m talking to you here! We all have that guilt! We feel guilty when we have to work late, we feel guilty when we serve mac and cheese or chicken nuggets for the second time that week, or when we drop our kids off at daycare or school with a low grade fever. Yes, I’ve done the last one!

So how can we remove the guilt? I think the answer is different for everyone, but the most important thing is that we all need to be OK with the choices we make. I know that's the answer for me.

I will not be home to take my kids to library story time, but I do read books to them every night. I can't make the birthday parties that are thrown on a random Tuesday, but we can still celebrate birthdays by picking up a special gift for a friend. I can't make 4 course gourmet meals, but I can sneak ground up spinach into their spaghetti sauce. I'm learning to be OK with these things because I firmly believe that my choice to be a working mom makes me a better mom, and as a better mom, I can be a better role model for my daughter and my son. These are choices I have made and I am happy with all of them, while I realize that many of my choices do no resonate with others, my being okay with them, is what is going to give me the confidence to shape my life into what I want it to be.

Are you okay with the decisions you've made? Do you wear them proudly? Are you wearing too many hats?

About a Pet

2011-07-29T17:22:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, Lacey, my 3 year old, found 2 small frogs at daycare. I’m sure you have seen this type hopping around, they are probably less than 1 inch in length. Of course she catches them and calls them her friends. She also doesn’t understand how fragile a 1 inch frog is, and she almost immediately kills it, so now she has a limp frog, which is still special to her. This means they have to come home with us. Now, I didn’t pick her up yesterday. Mike did, and I guess she refused to get in the car, until he let her put the dead frogs in her backpack.

When she got home she was SO EXCITED. (I am going to stop right here and tell you that I refuse to think about the fact that she was carrying around dead frogs, and then eating a snack, with her hands, on the way home. Note: keep antibacterial wipes in the car). She couldn’t wait to show me the frogs. I must have thought “tell”, but she indeed meant “show” so when she reached into her backpack clutching the dead frogs, I nearly had a heart attack.

I’m not sure what scared her more, the fact that I was screaming about 2 dead frogs she was clutching, or the fact that I was telling her they were dead. It was very traumatizing for all of us. Lots of raised, freaked out voices, and crying ensued. Finally Mike forced her to release her grip of death on the frogs, and into the trash they went. And I forced her and miles to the bathroom to scrub those little hands, a few times. She was so sad, because these were her special friends and she loved them. She wanted to take care of them.

So that made me think that we should get a pet.

A goldfish- cheap, but she would probably try to carry it around, therefore killing it. And I know I can’t handle another dead creature in her hands. Plus I have visions of fighting over who gets to feed the fish (or secretly feeding the fish when I am out of the room and fish flakes and a spilled fish bowl everywhere).

A hamster/guinea pig- also cheap. I don’t want to clean a cage though, and I certainly don’t want to have an animal that can get lost in my house, not into finding a dead hamster under the couch! Or, for that matter, I am not into an animal that can die if it accidentally gets stepped on. Pretty likely in my house.

A cat- I don’t like cats.

A dog- expensive, but we want one anyway, maybe now? Then I started reading about leaving them alone during the day, the cost, the risk that even the best kid-friendly dogs, may never really be kid friendly, it’s a chance you take. Plus, puppies are a ton of work, but I read if you have kids it’s best to have the dog introduced to them as a puppy. I have visions of chewing and jumping going on. Not sure I am okay with that. Then what size of dog. I want a smaller dog, like 15 pounds. Mike wants a dog he can run with. I want a smaller dog so it can’t knock over the kids as easily, mike thinks the kids would hurt the small dog accidentally. I want a golden doodle, but they are over $1000. I thought about going with a golden retriever, but apparently they shed a lot. Ugh. Dog on hold.

I asked Lacey last night when I was putting her to bed if she wanted a pet to take care of. “Yes!” She said. “ I want a unicorn.” I started to tell her that unicorns can’t be pets, when she interrupted me and said “I want a purple unicorn pillow pet.”

I’m sold.

week one down!

2011-07-22T17:01:00.001-07:00

Well, our "Staycation" Miles got pink eye from the Children's Museum. We spent Saturday running him to Target Clinic, and Sunday Mike and I were stressing about Monday. Fail.

Anyway...

First week at Target HG is over! What a relief. It's always nice to have that first week over. To be honest, I didn't do much, except drink a lot of water...let me explain.

Target has it's own culture. Like it's VERY OWN culture. First, they are VERY into well-being. That's where the water comes in. We are all given these 32oz Target water bottles, and shown the water stations. Which are everywhere. Drink up!

The next thing that is interesting is the cafe. All of the campus locations have their own Target Cafe, but this isn't your typical cafe food. First, part of the cafe is like walking through the produce/deli section at Target. All of the Archer Farms products you can think of. The other part is like high end cafeteria food. Labeled in categories such as: Vegetarian; Vegan; Fresh from the Farm: Well Balanced; and Low Carb.

Speaking of things at headquarters. Target also has a bank, clinic, Starbucks, post office, merchandise store, printing place (think kinkos), dry cleaning, and Wells Fargo ATM's at their HQ location. It's literally a city in a building.

Of course all of that is nice and great perks, but you sacrifice not knowing everyone. I've always worked in offices where every face has a name, so this will be a little strange, but overall I will like it!

Staycation...sort of.

2011-07-15T06:08:00.000-07:00

At the current moment, Mike and I are both unemployed. Which actually is super cool because it will only last until Monday. Plus, this is the first weekend in over 3 years, that he has off AND he won't be getting calls from Jamba Juice (even when he wasn't working he was ALWAYS getting called). Plus its going to be 95 degrees out, so if he were working, he would be working FOREVER.

We wanted to go somewhere or do something, but we were out of town last weekend, my parents just had the kids for a week, and we don't want to spend much money. So staycation it is!

Today we were going to start by meeting some friends at the lake, but as of right now it's dark and stormy out...hopefully that clears up soon. Then we were going to go to the zoo. The Como Zoo, which is free, but also sort of sad, but yeah, free.

Tomorrow I think we are going to hit up the Children's Museum in St. Paul. I've only been once, when I was a kid, and I distinctly remember it. I LOVED IT. I know the kids will adore it. I also want to hit up Teddy Bear park in Stillwater, so hopefully we can do that too.

Otherwise we are going to be doing the regulars...laundry, cleaning, grocery shopping. Basically getting everything ready for our "first days of work" I hope I can remember to take a photo of us, I mean how many couples start new jobs on the same day??!

I'll maybe surprise you by bringing my camera and posting pictures? Wouldn't that be a shocker!

Vanity Sizing

2011-07-12T12:47:00.000-07:00

Did you know that today's size 8 is the size of a 14 in the 1970's.

You maybe didn't want to know that. But some of us [me], cannot find clothes to fit. Mike didn't believe me until I tried on a Size 0 work pants from Limited and it was seriously LAUGHABLE. I looked completely ridiculous. My options include nothing outside of high end designer jeans/dress pants that are $220, and while $220 jeans look super cute and I am positive I would like them, I can think of a million other things to spend the money on.

Gap Kids always has jeans...with elastic adjustable waists...eww + embarrassing.

I am actually starting to wonder if shoe designers are also "vanity sizing." I used to wear a 6.5-7, then a 6, and now comfortably a 5.5. It's the strangest thing. Also, Mike, my husband, weighed 155 when we met 6 years ago. At that time he wore a 33"-34" waist. Today? He still weighs in at 155 and is down to a 30" waist.

Anyway...back to my point. Today I was at GAP and they were having amazing sales on jeans. GAP does make Size 00, which is still a bit large, but manageable (please, please, please shrink a bit...what can I say, I have no hips). So I bought 4 pairs of jeans for $35 (okay so wearing 00 has its advantages, like they always have your size). They were originally $70 each, so I was pumped.

Plus I got a pair of city ballet flats for $4.99...originally $40.

$320 of stuff for $39.98. So get yourself down to GAP and get some deals.

On a side note, in Minnesota we seriously wear long-sleeves for 9 months out of the year...all year if you work in an air conditioned office. I am desperately waiting for "fall" stuff to come out so I can buy some new work clothes!!

Everything coming together.

2011-07-11T05:53:00.000-07:00

I guess I can officially spill the beans. I got a new job! Yep, that's the BIG news. Sorry it isn't more exciting for everyone, but it is VERY exciting for me!

I'll be working for Target Corp.

Let's start at the beginning...

It was nearing the end of March and I was eagerly awaiting the end of busy season, a hefty job offer, and starting the CPA exams. Mike and I also had saved up a good chunk of money for a down payment on a house and we started looking.

Of course we found one. Although it was a short sale. We figured that was okay because we really liked the house and decided we were willing to wait. I am not sure how the short sale process works in each state, but in Minnesota, you and the seller sign a purchase agreement and then it goes to the bank for approval. The seller only signs one PA, so if you aren't the first offer they sign, you're considered a back up offer. We wanted to be first. We signed the PA on April 1st.

Fast forward a couple of weeks. Busy season is over and I am heading into my exit interview. I did not get an offer. No one did. We got the "we aren't sure what our fall staffing needs are in this economy. We will be waiting to present offers at the end of the summer. If you were to be given an offer you would start in January 2012, not this fall." Honestly, I wasn't completely depressed about it. I mean working 65 hours a week for a few months is crappy. But I still wanted the security of knowing I had a job! Plus, we had that signed PA on a house that we really wanted...

On that SAME DAY that I didn't get the offer, Jamba Juice franchised the Minneapolis stores. This was something we knew was coming, but didn't know what the effects would be until it actually happened. My biggest fear was that we wouldn't have health insurance. When we found out they were offering insurance we were thrilled. Until we found out that for an entire family, it was going to be $700 per paycheck. We just about had a heart attack and decided to drop it. We also made to much to qualify for state insurance, so we were stuck.

So I started job-hunting. Have you tried looking for a job as an entry-level professional in this economy? My goodness it's rough! Plus I was/am picky. I turned down a few lower paying jobs, but at the end of the day couldn't find anything I needed. Then, at the beginning of June our realtor called us and said the bank wanted to close on the house June 30. This sucked. We went ahead and got all the paperwork together on our end and just waited for written confirmation from the 2nd and 3rd mortgages. We waited, and waited, and waited some more. We are still waiting. So the June 30th close date never happened.

Also happening during June was interviews! I finally quit applying to so many places and decided to just focus on studying. I was contacted by the MN Department of Revenue as well as Target. I went through the interview process with both. The Revenue job was on hold since a government shut-down was a possibility (and subsequently happened...and is happening). So that left the Target job, which might as well be like interviewing at Microsoft or Google. Every stage of the interview I thought I had failed. But I kept getting pushed through round after round. It was the most stressful 3 weeks of my life! Finally on June 30th they called and gave me an offer! I was/am thrilled. This means 40 hour work weeks, benefits, NO BUSY SEASON, and tons and tons of opportunity. Plus, 10% discount on everything! Oh, and Target pays well! They are matching what I would have been making at the firm! It also means that as we keep waiting for the house, we can keep on saving and building up our savings account in order to have more to work with once we move in.

Also, ironically the day after I accepted the offer I got my student loan statement in the mail. For the first time it hit me. I have a lot of student loans (that I am confident I can pay off in the next 18 months), I don't have the option of working right now. I realized that I gave up the option to stay at home in April of 2009 when I went back to school and took out loans. The Lord knew what he was doing, giving me that offer just before I got that final statement in the mail!

Finally, Mike is leaving Jamba Juice. He also interviewed during June and accepted an offer to manage at a co-op. I'm excited that he'll be working more closely with food, which is his passion, especially natural and organic food.

So, things are finally coming together. It was a rough couple of months for us with all of the unknowns. We were definitely stretched faith-wise. I learned so much about the faithfulness and the goodness of God. He really does have everything ordained for us, and I am learning to trust His timing above mine. He is the reason everything is working out for us. Believe me, I did not get this job on my own!

So, now I will take some time to drink my lemonade. Everything feels like it is clicking for us right now and I am going to drink it up. Because the good times, just like the bad times, come and go. I may as well enjoy them while they are here!

JULY

2011-07-01T07:48:00.001-07:00

Remember my post about wanting June to be over?

Well it is, and I have some happy things to report in the next week! Sorry to make people wait, but you'll just have to!

Anyway, on this first day of July there are a few interesting things going on in Minnesota, namely the government shut down. No one can come to an agreement and it's becoming a blame game. Unfortunately now all the State Parks, rest areas, and DMV's are closed. Perfect right before the 4th of July weekend. Also 36,000 people are without jobs, and those same people, plus many more in the state, are also without health care. I heard on the radio this morning that everyone with state funded heathcare will be turned away for treatment unless it is life threatening. It's really sad.

It's also almost 100 degrees out. I swear, here in MN we get the craziest weather extremes! Where else in the country can it be -40 and 6 months later be 100? Not many places. Although this heat sucks and I would DIE without AC, I can't say I totally mind it. I mean, I would much rather deal with 100 degrees than dealing with freezing cold and icy snowy roads!

Mike's brother and his wife and their 3 kids are moving to Australia on Sunday, so they are up here right now. My parents are coming up tomorrow to celebrate my birthday, my birthday is on the 4th, I take my first section of the CPA exam on the 6th, and Mike's little brother is getting married on the 8th. So between finding time to spend with all these people, I am trying desperately to study, and keep my house clean. It is good! BUT CRAZY.

So now I am off to create a spreadsheet to see how quickly I can pay off my student loans. I'll study some more, and then go shopping for a new dress for the wedding next week! Happy Friday!

Foggy Coffee-less brain

2011-06-20T05:11:00.000-07:00

1) Wake up and drive to Starbucks to study. Turned on the wrong road. Had to turn around (result of no coffee).

2) Walking in the door of Starbucks, to realize I forgot my wallet at home. Crap. (result of no coffee).

3) Wait, I can use my phone to pay. Score.

4) Pay with my phone. Leave my keys at the counter. (result of no coffee).

5) Finishing my first cup, about to go get a refill. Now I think I can start to actually study.

I am a walking mess unless I get coffee flowing through my veins first thing in the morning!

Get a little uncomfortable....please?

2011-06-17T06:44:00.000-07:00

You know, Mike and I get on these kicks. For example, watching adventure documentaries on Netflix...it's a bit strange, but it's like a drug. Can't get enough.

A while back we read "Into Thin Air" the popular book about the 1996 Everest Disaster. So when I saw that there was a documentary about it, made in 2008, we were excited to watch it. It was slightly slow moving, and a little bit too much string music in the background, but the fact that we had read the book and were putting faces and names of the survivors together, it was captivating.

The thing about the 1996 tragedy is that is probably could have been prevented. Of course after watching it, Mike and I were analyzing that fact. Suddenly, I found myself saying:

"Change only happens when you're uncomfortable. If you're never uncomfortable, you'll never change."

It's almost embarrassing that I find myself saying it, but hate living that. So often we complain about the job we have, or the fact that we are out of shape, or want to lose a few pounds. Maybe, someone wishes they had a different educational degree, or had a bigger savings account. But if you step back and look at your life, changing any of those things forces you to be uncomfortable. You have to work at it. You want to get in shape and run a race? Guess what, getting in shape sucks, it will make you uncomfortable. You want to go back to school? Guess what, going back to school, after you've done it once, sucks. You'll question yourself constantly. Finding a new, hopefully better job, will probably be stressful, and make you re-think everything, including you're competencies.

But who says that is bad? Who wants to sit at home and just...sit? Don't you want to be drinking from life? Trying new things? Making the uncomfortable become comfortable?

I do. It might still be painful, but at least its not boring.

I hate boring.

june randoms

2011-06-16T04:51:00.000-07:00

So June has not wrapped up, therefore every area of my life is still in balance. Throw a few other things on top and well...it's fun. In a crazy, stressful, fun sort of way.

Weekly Randoms:

I've got a new hobby, and it's searching Craigslist for free things. I have found a lot of great things, but haven't actually gone to get anything. The other night though Mike and I went "alley cruising" and we found a sweet desk from this old couple that they had on their lawn for free. We have to refinish it, but it will be much better than the little fake-wood, Target number I currently use. I suppose I should just do one project at a time though, as to not be the person who starts everything and never finishes.

I'd say my second new hobby is reading biographies of popular companies. I read "It's Not About the Coffee" (Starbucks), "On Target" (Target Corp), currently have "Innovation Secrets of Steve Jobs" (Apple), and that will be followed by "Onward" the new book by Howard Schultz (Starbucks), you've seen it at the register if you've stepped into a Starbucks in the last 3 months.

*and if you haven't been in a Starbucks in the last 3 months....I'm sorry. But I suppose since I am studying all the time, it makes sense that I am there every day.

Miles needs a haircut so, so bad. Lacey is growing up too fast, and acting way to much like a girl, and not like a toddler anymore. We were walking the other day and I said, Hey Lacey look at our shadows. She responds: Mom, we have shadows because the sun is out and it's behind us so it makes the shadow on the sidewalk. Ummm...seriously? Who told her that?

Anyway, life is good. A bit fragile between enjoying the adventure, and stressed out that everything is falling out from under us. Resting in the knowledge that God knows what he's doing and when the floor gets put back under our feet. We'll be in awe of how great everything worked out.

Crazy town June

2011-06-04T09:53:00.001-07:00

June has just begun and I seriously can't wait for it to be over. We have so many things happening this month, it's absolute crazy town in our house.

Exciting things none-the-less.

But with change come stress, and lots of it. We are currently turned upside down, but hope to be back to being straightened out and standing the right way in a couple of weeks.

Couple our crazy town life with the fact that Mike's brother and his family are moving to Australia at the end of the month, so they will be visiting one last time, My birthday is July 4th, My first CPA exam (EEK) is July 6th and Mike's other brother is getting married July 8th...we're busy.

"The truth about security, is that there is no such thing as security" I read that quote the other day and couldn't agree more. It seems like as soon as things get comfortable and stable, life throws a curve ball. I'm making some lemonade.

I've been back at running a few times a week and it's helped me tremendously. On the days I don't run I usually do 30-day shred. I feel great.

I got my haircut yesterday. 3-4 Inches of dead ends are gone. Its a bit shorter than what I've been used to, but it looks and feels much better. I'm cool with that.

Until next time...

The best quote I've read in a while.

2011-05-27T10:52:00.000-07:00

"When challenges come, we accept them, learn from them, chop and puree those damn lemons into something sweet and likewise, when the good and easy comes, we drink it in gulps knowing that, like hardships, it won't last forever."

From Kelle Hampton's latest blog post over at Enjoying the Small Things.

I love this. It acknowledges my state and perfectly sums up life.

Marathon-2011

2011-05-22T19:50:00.000-07:00

Mike ran it in 2:55:58, a personal best.
Good enough for 25th place overall;
23rd Male;
7th in his age group.

You can read his review of it here.

Can I just say I am so proud?

Mike does 100% of his training outdoors and
we had the world's LONGEST, SNOWIEST winter this year.

Plus, I started work in January
(and worked a TON).

He moved to a new store March 1st.

Jamba Juice was also bought out on April 12th.

So needless to say he's had a lot on his plate.

I think he only did one "long run" of about 18 miles.

ONE.

And he still got a PR. Geez.

I'm Proud.

Pics to come.

Mama needs a time out.

2011-05-12T10:51:00.000-07:00

Our New Family Member (a.k.a. Miss Joyce...our daycare lady), had the unfortunate luck of having a large kidney stone this week. She was getting it surgically removed today. This means that I have been taking a (very unfortunate) break from studying, to play Mom again.

(First of all, can I just say that this break from studying is a major blow. It's costing a few thousand dollars to take these exams and I am having a hard time accepting that studying isn't coming easy this week.)

Whew....I am so out of practice at this mom thing! Between the pushing (Lacey to Miles, and Miles' retaliation), the Mac and Cheese getting dumped on the floor (Miles), the taking of every.single.toy. out of the toy box (Lacey), and the constant hum of whining (both), crying (both), and "maaamaaa!!" (both). I am absolutely exhausted.

As I sip my FOURTH cup of coffee I can't help but think that:

I haven't exercised once.
I've raised my voice too many times.
Hid in my room quite often.
Tried going to Target yesterday and turned right around.
etc...etc...etc.

By the end of the day I.am.beat.
I need to run these kids to exhaustion, but they are doing it to me!

It's amazing how these little rascals can take so much energy!

Mother's Day

2011-05-08T10:42:00.000-07:00

My 4th Mother's Day.

Maybe my 5th, but to be honest I don't count the year Lacey was a baby in my tummy. At the very least I didn't take a Dove Bar at church that Sunday back in 2007.

My first Mother's Day I was alone with Lacey. I dressed her in this cute (dorky) striped pants, matching striped hat, and a onsie that said "my heart belongs to mommy." I loved that outfit, I think I kept it. Just couldn't part with it.

We had just moved to Seattle and Mike was only about 2 weeks into his new job and had to work that day. I remember sitting at home in our furniture-less condo, without a car (cause we had crashed it in Montana), and feeling supremely blessed.

Not much has changed. The blessed part that is.

Today I sat here, and thought what a privilege it is to be able to get them dressed in the morning, make them meals, have them sit with me, and play with them. All those things, those mundane everyday things, that sometimes get old, and sometimes drive me a little bit batty. I get to do them.

A little awestruck that Someone believed me capable of raising these 2 peanuts.

Yes, my heart is full. I am feeling supremely blessed.

Looking for a Hobby

2011-04-30T19:00:00.000-07:00

I've decided that I need to take up a hobby. Something simple, and enjoyable.

Whenever I am asked what I do for fun I have nothing to give. It usually goes something like "uh, I like to run." or "I have been busy studying..." Pathetic answers I tell you.

Because the truth is that yes, I spend far too much time studying. Now that I am in the middle of studying for the AUD section of the CPA exam I eat, sleep, and breath control risk modules, management assertions, and types of substantive procedures. (Trust me, it's good you have no idea what I am talking about).

And although I like to run, let's be honest. Full-time mom of 2 very dependent kids, and Full-time employee/CPA exam taker leaves zero time to go on a long lazy run. Let's not forget the fact that the weather has been terrible since November and I don't have the luxury of a gym membership (No time to go, even if I did...what, put my kids in daycare all day then throw them in the gym daycare? no), so it's hardly an option running in sub-zero temps.

Anyway, back to the hobby. I think I want to work my way through this book:

Mother's day is coming up, so I might need to plant some seeds in some ears this next week.

Valleys

2011-04-22T20:13:00.000-07:00

I am not completely sure how to get this post out, I've been doing a lot of reflecting lately and I just need to attempt at writing down my thoughts.

You know how some times, life can be moving along swimmingly? Things are clicking, you've got direction, security, you're just plain happy. Then a valley hits.

I am so in the middle of a valley right now.

It just feels that a lot of things have gone "wrong" for us in the past couple of weeks, making it hard to celebrate the good. There is good, it has been over-shadowed by gloominess, and loss of direction. I am exhausted, and overwhelmed, and just plain tired.

(really, I am sure my blood pressure is through the roof because I am in a constant state of stress).

We've been in valley's before. God has always directed us through them, sometimes when I look back I think about how "stuck" I thought we were and I smile at how we came out. I thank God every day for where he's brought us, but it's still a faith tester and a faith builder.

Tonight I watched "Girls Night Out." It was some country music special on TV, and since I have nothing else to do on a gloomy, rainy, cold Friday night I watched it. I love country music, so it really was fun for me to watch. Anyway, towards the end of the show Carrie came up onstage, with all her class, and sang How Great Thou Art. It was beautiful and a great reminder that I am not in charge, there is Someone much greater who is.

2011-04-16T11:44:00.001-07:00

I stopped into Starbucks, a.k.a. my absolute favorite place to be in the morning with no kids, yesterday morning.

While I was sitting their sipping my Americano and checking email a younger gal walked in and, while I don't normally pay too much attention, let me tell you she was IN SHAPE. Super toned legs.

My first thought was not....Wow isn't she lucky.....no. My first thought was...."Well she obviously doesn't have kids"....no wedding ring on her finger so I am guessing no kids.

And it's not like you can't be in shape and have kids, you can, and many people are, its just that finding the time is a TERRIBLY IMPOSSIBLE GOAL.

I already wake up at 5:15 every morning. What time would I possibly get up to exercise? By the time 8:00 hits and I am getting to work, I've already been up for 3 hours, taking care of other little people.

I'll say it again...kids are awesome, great, fantastic. I wouldn't not have kids for anything. But mom's put themselves second. They just do. No getting around that. Even if you are not a selfish person, you become much less selfish after kids.

2011-04-14T18:46:00.000-07:00

My hair = damaged. So I bought this and it cost me $25. I know, I just about died too. It probably has some gold in it for all I know. But so far it's worth it.

Wheatgrass. This stuff is SICK. It literally tastes like you are drinking grass, that you just mowed. But it IS SO FREAKING GOOD FOR YOU. So I've started taking it everyday. Helps that I don't have to pay for it. It's expensive.
IZZE. This is my favorite thing. Ever.

New Blog- Spin off

2011-04-13T04:11:00.000-07:00

I've decided not to leave this blog for now, but I will be blogging my way through the CPA exam.

Check it out if you are ever interested, although I am giving you fair warning that it will be about studying, test taking, strategy etc. No cutesy pictures or stories. Well...maybe a story or 2 of me throwing up from nerves, but let's hope not.

Check it out!

CPA Summer

Annie

6 more days

2011-04-09T20:09:00.000-07:00

Ahh, the life of an intern. Just 6 more days. I initially thought that I would be done on the 15th, even though the tax deadline is pushed back to the 18th this year (a Monday), but they said we can't miss the last day. I agree-- work all busy season and then don't even get to work on the final day! Plus it's one more day of pay. I'll take it!

In case you are wondering, I did 122 tax returns this year...plus my own...so 123 individual returns.

I bet there aren't a whole lot of people who do 123 tax returns, or maybe there are. I don't know. I also don't know how many businesses I did....maybe 40 or 50 business returns? I didn't keep track of them the same.

I do know that I have probably learned more in the last 3 months than my entire life. I feel like a toddler who is learning so much so fast that it's easy to get frustrated.

We've finally. FINALLY totally adjusted. The kids ask to go to daycare, they get to play outside a lot there now too because the snow has melted (finally), so I think they just have a grand time running and swinging outside. No more screaming matches in the morning about getting up and getting dressed. They pop out of bed all smiles and ready to roll. I LOVE it. Of course this also means that they get up at 6:30-7:00 on the weekends, but I guess I get up around 5:30-6:00 on the weekends so its not a big deal. Funny how we adjust like that.

We were out and at Starbucks around 8:00 this morning (I had the most amazing cup of coffee) and had groceries by 10:00. Its amazing how much more awesome it is to get things done early. Read: less crowded.

Tomorrow the high is 77 degrees. What the heck? It snowed pretty much last week. Gotta love MN for that. We always get some crazy high temps early on. It makes life fun for us. Mike has to work all day, but at least the kiddos and I can enjoy the day!

HELP (seriously) can someone please tell my kids I don't like WHINING

2011-04-02T12:19:00.000-07:00

you know what I hate? I hate it when someone says: "when my kids whine, I tell them I can't hear whining, and I only listen to nice voices."

apparently mine didn't get the memo, or they are too young, or I am doing this totally wrong, because oh.my.word. AHHHHH.

okay, deep breath. they are both napping now so i am sipping coffee and pretending all is right in the world.

I think its their ages. I knew the year of a 2 year old and a 3 year old would be "challenging" to say the least. But the whining and screaming all.day.long. makes me yell at them and well, that's not good for any of us. Regretful words have happened in this house recently. Sad to have to write that, but its true.

I am totally at a loss for what to do. And the worst part? I feel so frantic with all the other areas of life, that it some days I have no energy for the most important parts. I am raising them into adults. I always need to remember that.

So if anyone has good tips or tricks, or books or ANYTHING I'd love to hear it.

Deep Breath. In and out. It will be okay...

a blog? what's that. i think it might be time to shut down.

2011-04-01T11:33:00.000-07:00

yep.

I think for a couple of weeks I forgot I even had a blog. I don't have time to write in it, and to be honest, I am not all that interested in writing in it. I might write a few more times, but I think it's time to throw in the towel.

I will say that I do love working though. I couldn't imagine staying home with the kids (no, this doesn't mean I don't miss them, it just means I feel SO much more balanced). Different strokes for different folks I guess.

Except right now everyone is PISSED OFF at work. Might have something to do with that tax deadline looming. If you do not like getting chewed out on a semi-regular basis, public accounting isn't for you. But you do grow immune to it. I've personally come to hate it, but accept it.

okay, that's all for now!

Doing Tax Returns

2011-03-09T19:37:00.000-08:00

What day is it?

I seriously don't know.

I've been doing tax return, after tax return, after tax return. It can put you in a little bit of a trance, but it is sort of fun.

Today I did a tax return for an old man that lived in a million dollar house that he owned (no mortgage) and he had an "income" of $122,000. I say "income" because he is retired. He had dividends and Roth IRA distributions. Man, I'd love to make that much and not actually go to a job. I wonder what he spends his money on. He doesn't have a mortgage.

I also did a tax return today for 2 doctors. Combined they had almost $300,000 in student loan debt. OUCH.

Or the family who's TAX BILL was $209,000. Do you THINK they make good money? Yeah they did.

Simply RAVishing.

2011-02-23T19:39:00.001-08:00

I have a major crush.

On my 1997 Rav 4.

Sure, she's getting old.
She sure is small to pack 2 kids into.
Definitely a bit on the tinny side.

But she BARRELS through snow.
Handles like a pro on ice.

Starts right up all winter long.

This car will not let you down.
In fact, it's my 2nd 1997 Toyota Rav 4
We sold my first before moving to Seattle.

We loved it so much.
We just had to buy another one upon our return.

We both always want to drive this car.

I love this car.

*and I am officially the biggest dork ever.

An expensive choice

2011-02-19T19:19:00.000-08:00

An article in the opinion section of the newspaper caught my eye this past week. It was titled: Priceless (but with a cost). She delved into the whole working/non-working mother issue, and I of course was all ears.

Basically, she went into it about how she worked, had her first baby and kept working. But when her second came a long she decided she couldn't do it any longer and decided to stay at home. Fast forward 10-12 years and she finds herself a divorced mother of 2 teenage boys, working 3 part time jobs to pay the bills. She is not uneducated, she is just un-experienced. She dropped out of the work force, and went part time, right when her career was about to take off. So what does that leave you with? Not much.

I don't think choosing to stay home is a bad idea. Not at all. I did it. I wanted to do it. I enjoyed it. But I'm only 27 and most of the people showing me how to do things and who are a level above me are 25. There is no way that I could have stuck around at home longer, and still been able to get my feet off the ground professionally.

And while some may say, who cares about a professional career, I have to say what about divorce, death, or injuries? I mean, yes it sucks to think about those things but you just never know what life may hand you. Bad things happen to good people everyday. I am sure we could all list someone who life has been unfair to. At least I know I can.

So where does this leave you? I don't know. I would just say, it was a good reminder for me to think about. Our economic system makes staying home an expensive choice, and I don't just mean living on a tight monthly budget. I mean that while you're sacrificing the eating out and the new clothes to make ends meet, you are also sacrificing professional advancement, and while no one cannot hire you because of your age, I am sure they can find someone a lot younger than you with a lot less responsibilities, with the same, or better, qualifications. It's a tough world for mothers, everyone knows what is best for us, but only we can really know what's best.

sometimes I love technology

2011-02-13T12:08:00.000-08:00

My friend is texting me from the hospital as she is about to start pushing.

FUN.

Now our boys will share Birthdays!

(and I realize that I need the obligatory 2 year birthday post, it's coming, I just don't have time today)!

operating at genius level

2011-02-12T19:33:00.001-08:00

Here is the thing about accounting. You get a degree and suddenly you know everything. At least that is what everyone thinks. I'm suddenly a pro at taxes (uh, never took a corporate tax class), can read a financial statement like nobody's business, and can pretty much answer all your Quickbooks and Peachtree questions.

Because I have an accounting degree.

I explained it to my husband like this, if you take a spanish class for a couple of years and then someone drops you off in the middle of Mexico, you're a little bit screwed. And you learn fast. Because you have to, you need to survive.

Sink or Swim.

Most days I feel like I'm swimming, granted it's the doggy paddle, barely keeping my head above water type swim, but I'm swimming none the less. I'm learning fast too, (the learning curve isn't really a curve at all, it's more of a spike). But some days it's hard.

We are 'in the thick of it' right now. It probably won't get worse than this, which is good because I have about 3 weeks of work on my desk, but making it through the next couple of weeks seems daunting.

Plus it's hard to put in a 60 hour week and feel guilty "for not working enough."

Sigh. I'm exhausted. And today I got to spend the entire day with the kids, which really wasn't all that great because someone must have given them a grouchy pill this morning.

Miles has a cold, maybe an ear infection. Lacey has a minor cold and pink eye. Both of them have a case of the grumps. I put them to bed at 6:45.

Oh, and I have class tomorrow (yes, that's right. This internship I am doing is for credit, so I have to go to class).

MILES TURNS TWO TOMORROW! (yeah, I have class on his birthday...boo).

and currently this is a work blog. and I am not going to apologize for that.

Annie

A Month In.

2011-02-02T18:58:00.000-08:00

One month down.

I can't believe I've been a workin' woman for one month. It's going great overall with the occasional breakdown. Nothing hard ever comes easy. Say that with me?

But I still do love the, sometimes foreign, language of accounting. Let's get to it...

The Good:
1. The Money (I'm not going to lie)- OMG my paychecks are HUGE. Like almost triple what I used to make when I worked FT huge.
2. Adult time (not going to lie again)- I love having adult conversations about adult things.
3. Feeling of Success- When you finally "get" something that's been stressing you out, its wonderful.
4. Free meals when you work late (which is like EVERYDAY).
5. Underground Parking (no snow on the car to brush off!!)

The Bad:
1. Not seeing my kids. I don't generally think about them too much at work, but when it's 8:00 and I am driving home I nearly lose it. When I get home and put dishes in the dishwasher and pick up the clothes from the day I realize I have no idea what they ate, no idea what they did, and no idea what they wore to bed, then I lose it. LOSE IT.
2. My brain is fried constantly.
3. Couple that with the fact that my brain is thinking about accounting constantly. I am making notes (real and in my head) on my files all day and night.
4. All I do is work and sleep. But at least it's -5 out right now, so what else am I going to be doing anyway?

So, after a month have we adjusted? Yes. I think so, for the most part. But we still have ups and downs, good and not so good days. Am I looking forward to April 18th? (darn Emancipation Day pushed back the tax deadline as I am sure you are all aware). YES.

Stream of Consciencness

2011-01-30T12:02:00.000-08:00

My husband just put Lacey down for a nap, although now I am hearing nothing coming from the room. I am pretty sure he's sneaking in a quick nap too...

I ate breakfast at Rustica this morning. Coffee made by the cup, Lattes decorated with frothy hearts, vanilla steamers for the kids made with real vanilla bean, scones make with real vanilla bean, chocolate crossiants. Delish...

Mike is moving Jamba stores. He's moving from (no fun) mall life to (really fun) Whole Foods. This is happening March 1st...

In fact there are 2 new Whole Foods stores opening in the cities this year. One in Edina, near The Container Store, and one in Minnetonka off of 394/494 area, in case this sort of thing interests you...

Hair needs a cut BAD....

Hair needs highlights BAD...

We are so antsy to buy a house. All in good time, all in good time...

I don't like my Subaru Outback. I want a 4Runner. The outback is too hard to see.

This past week.

2011-01-22T11:26:00.000-08:00

There is something I find relaxing about the continual hum of life.

Right before I started work, I always said "I just can't wait until we are 2 weeks in." Well, we are 2 weeks in now and I am happy. Right where we need to be.

Sure I am exhausted. When it's 7:30 pm and I've been at work for 12 hours, my brain is fried, I feel like I'll never catch on, and I am feeling stabs of guilt because I haven't seen my kids, it sucks. Believe me, I've had a few near breakdowns at my desk.

But, when I get home at 8:30, pick out outfits for the next day, pack diaper bags, prep breakfast, coffee, and juice. Hop in the shower and get ready to do it again, I still look forward to it.

It's still worth it. I am not going to lie. It's a lot. A LOT. The adjustments are endless and the learning is continual, but as long as I am enjoying it, then it's worth it. It is so totally worth it.

(Oh, and I got my first paycheck at the beginning of last week. It was not only my first paycheck in almost 3 years, but it was the biggest paycheck OF MY WORKING LIFE. Good Lord, I was so happy. I think it only had 60 hours on it and no OT. I mean, come on, if I am going to be working these crazy hours, the least I can do is be getting paid well for it)!

I was going to document my day yesterday....

2011-01-19T18:30:00.000-08:00

But, it went something like this.

5:30 am- up
6:30 am- kids up
7:00 am- out the door
7:20 am- drop kids off
7:30 am at work

work, work, work.

7:30 pm- leave work
8:00 pm get home say hello and goodnight to the kids
9:00 pm watch Parenthood
10:00 pm- crash in bed

yep, a 12 hour day and it's not even February! We'll pick another day for A Day In January!

well...we survived the first week of daycare.

2011-01-15T12:23:00.001-08:00

I have a little secret to tell you...

I don't mind sending my kids to daycare one little bit.

There, I said it.

Last Tuesday marked the first day of daycare for our little ones. All of the stress of a new job, finding daycare, getting up early, and driving around the city at those crazy hours hasn't really been all that bad. I am SO happy that I waited a week after my job started to put them in daycare though...

I dropped them off at 7:30 on Tuesday, hugs and kisses from Lacey (who was beyond excited, but also a bit anxious), and tears from Miles (which was expected). I had no regrets. I love the lady watching them, so leaving your kids is MUCH easier when you like the person they are staying with.

No tears from me, just a smile on my face.

As the week wore on, we had more meltdowns from Lacey (who became more and more behind on sleep), and less meltdowns from Miles (who will actually fall asleep when we put him to bed earlier). By Friday we had no crying from Miles (!!), This was a big milestone that I didn't expect to hit until somewhere in week 3.

We are having a few other issues with Miles, that I am sure will clear up soon. First, He won't eat much at her house. He is seriously getting lighter by the day (okay, maybe not, and trust me, he could lose a few and it wouldn't hurt him). He comes home ravenous. Despite offering him endless foods, he doesn't seem to want to eat. He's a stubborn one he is. He is also having a hard time adjusting to not having Lacey as his one and only. We first noticed he might have a problem at Christmas, when their cousin Lauren would come over to play. Lacey and Lauren play, play, play, and Miles has a hard time sharing his sister with anyone else, even though they were more than willing to play with him (Lauren is only 5 months older than Miles). This seems to hold true here at daycare, Lacey is apparently playing hard with the other little girls, and Miles isn't used to being on his own, and finding his own friends to play with. He is still young, so playing "with" and opposed to "next to" other kids is a skill he hasn't completely gotten down, but he also has never had to try to find anyone to play with, so I think that is wearing on him too.

I'm sure it will pass. There are a lot of other little boys at daycare that will play with him, when he decides to get off his grumpy horse and play!

It is hard however, not seeing them all day. Truth be told I rarely think about what they are doing while I'm at work. However, when we have a meltdown at night, the guilt sets in. Not because I feel bad for working, but because they are doing such a great job being so tough through this transition. It's a lot to ask of a 1 year old and a 3 year old! I am really proud of my kids.

And then Friday, it had to go ahead and snow (again-- for the love, could it please not snow for 2 days?!), and it took us 2 hours to get home, so we weren't home until 7:00, and they were both in bed at 8:00. That kinda sucked.

The first few days...

2011-01-06T17:28:00.001-08:00

I LOVE IT.

I really love the job, and I work with some really great, really nice people.

However, I am pooped. Oh.my.gosh. Completely exhausted. My body is definitely out of the regular work time.

And I miss the kids like crazy during the day. (Although the first day was the worst, it is getting better).

I may not have much time for "social media" type things in the next few months. When I am not at work I will be spending some very important quality time with my husband and kiddos. And when I am doing neither of those things I will be lounging on the couch or sleeping : )

the eve of work.

2011-01-04T15:51:00.000-08:00

Last day at home. Lots of mixed feelings. I stared at Miles today while he was eating a snack and thought about how much I would miss him and how sad that was going to be.

Then I was at REI, chasing Miles around the store, fielding 475 questions from Lacey, and fighting with them to put their coats on. I thought about how I am not really going to miss moments like this, except that I probably will. I'll miss them in a new way.

Our schedules will look a bit different from here on out, but it's going to be good. We'll all do great, and we'll adjust just fine. I'll miss out on some things, but I feel so blessed to have been able to spend the last 3 years at home.

I always hope that I remember this. I am not an Accountant who is also a mother. I am a mother who just happens to be an Accountant. What I have learned is that being a mother in and of itself is more than enough. It is a title I wear with pride, and always will.

Bringing in 2011

2010-12-31T11:20:00.000-08:00

Let's hope for a less snowy 2011!

(yes, that is really what it looks like)

I start work next week.

2010-12-27T13:20:00.001-08:00

So weird to say that! But I am really excited!

A little nervous. My mom is coming to stay for the week so the kids won't be starting daycare until Jan. 11th. Mike has to go to Chicago for work, and we figured with a new job for me, and him traveling, and the kids starting in on a new routine we might be very overwhelmed. No, we would most certainly be overwhelmed!

I am actually not nervous about the job or about the daycare situation. The thing I am most nervous about is the hectic mornings. Early wake ups, fights to get dressed, loading into a cold car (in the dark), driving in traffic, the drop off, driving in more traffic, just to arrive at work. I figure it will take about 45 minutes once we leave the house, for me to get to work. Gross. I hate traffic. At least my car will be warm when I get there!

So, if you have any tips for making the mornings run a little smoother, please let me know!!

Miles' Birth Story

2010-12-23T18:37:00.000-08:00

I realized last week that I don't have Miles' birth story written down on this blog. Since this blog is for me to remember things by I need to write it down! I am 22 months late!

The Birth Story of Miles Nash

The weeks leading up to his birthday were long and stressful. We were dealing with Mike losing his job, subleasing our apartment, moving in with friends, organizing a move back to Minnesota, Mike trying to get a job back in Minneapolis, and oh yeah, a little girl.

The timing of everything was rough. When Mike lost his job I was only 6 weeks from my due date and too far along to move to Minnesota at that point. However, we wanted to move as quickly as possible after the baby came. Mike had told Jamba Juice, who had an opening in Minneapolis, that we'd be back March 1st. Nothing like telling a baby when to show up!

My official due date was February 20th, but I had been consistently measuring 2 weeks ahead the entire pregnancy. At my 34.5 week appointment (somehow I got off schedule and was going on half weeks), I was 2 cm dilated and 70% effaced. They sent me in for an ultrasound that day because "I would probably go into labor very soon." I was so excited! I didn't want to be induced, but knew that we might have to go that route if he didn't come on his own. Our plane tickets had been purchased, and we were flying to Minneapolis on February 24th.

At 37.5 weeks I was 2-3 cm and 80% effaced. She stripped my membranes to try to get something going but nothing resulted from that.

I went back at 38.5 weeks and was 3-4 cm and 90% effaced. She "aggressively" stripped my membranes and I had contractions the rest of the day about 5-7 minutes apart. They were mild though, and stopped when I went to bed. A total bummer. I knew that 39 weeks was looming and that is when they'll induce you. I also knew that we were flying Alaskan Air and they require babies to be 7 days old to fly. I discussed induction for February 16th with my doctor and we decided that we'd go with that date if he didn't come on his own before then.

On the morning of February 13th the hospital called me and asked if I wanted to come in that day. I was 39 weeks exactly. I wasn't tickled by the thought of being induced an entire week early, but I also knew it would be in his best interest to be as old as possible when we got on the plane. Also, the friends that were going to take care of Lacey were going out of town the 14th and the 15th, so if I went into labor one of those days either Lacey would be in the delivery room, or Mike would not be in the delivery room. I called Mike to get his thoughts. He said go for it. That was all the encouragement I needed, so I called the hospital back and said I'd be in as soon as I could.

It took us a while to get Lacey all set up with the sitters. We left for the hospital and parked and walked in right around 12:30 pm. It is the weirdest thing walking into the hospital knowing that in a few short hours you'll have a baby. It's such a strange feeling knowing that you are about to deliver a human life. It's pretty fantastic.

By the time I got to my room and changed it was about 1:00 pm. They broke my water and checked me. I was 5 cm and 100% effaced. I seriously couldn't believe I wasn't in labor at that point! I figured half the work was done and I was so excited about it! They started me on pitocin, and I told my labor nurse that I would want the epidural. Next thing I know, literally, the anesthesiologist is in my room. I haven't even felt a contraction yet! I guess that's what happens when you are 5 cm, they give you the epidural right away! So he placed the epidural while I was just sitting there. It was so strange, because with Lacey I was so focused on not moving through my death contractions that this was just plain odd. I got it placed, it didn't hurt at all, and then I sat up and chatted with the nurses.

Mike was on a phone interview with the District Manager in Minneapolis.

About 45 minutes after the epidural was in the nurse asked if I was feeling any pressure. In fact I was, so she checked me and I was 9 cm. We did some practice pushes off and on over the next 30 minutes. Then I heard her say, "Okay Stop! No more pushing!" She called the doctor because this boy was coming! Right there was the most difficult part of labor, the pressure to push was overwhelming! I just wanted to push that baby OUT! It took her maybe 5 minutes to leave her patient and run across the street. When she got there I was ready to go! When you are pushing, they have you push for 10 seconds 3 times per contraction. So I did my first 2 counts to 10, and he was out on the 3rd round! A beautiful, healthy, perfect, baby boy!

7lbs. 3.5 oz
20 3/4 inches
3:42 pm

I had the world's best epidural and was up, walking around within 30 minutes of his birth. The hospital I delivered at did not have a baby nursery so it was just me and Miles that first night. We slept together in the hospital bed, mostly because that was the only way he would sleep. He was perfect and never cried. The hospital also only kept you for 24 hours, so when I woke up I was already going through discharge procedures and we left at 4:00 the afternoon of the 14th.

Crazy how you can walk in one day, have a baby, and walk out the next. Truly blessed.

(get this, I didn't even have to take Tylenol for the pain after giving birth. I had zero pain. It was all the EPO I took).

We named him Miles mostly because it was a name we both loved. It means soldier. It was our "boy name" if Lacey had been a boy, so we were happy to be able to use it. His middle name is Nash. We chose it because it means "adventurous." We loved that.

So 22 months later and I finally got that out. He continues to charm us every day! He is truly a blessing in our lives!

2010 Recap

2010-12-23T11:00:00.001-08:00

January- I started another semester of school the beginning of January, and therefore started juggling life again. The weather was cold and was frustrating me because Miles wasn't walking yet, and there are only so many places you can go with an 11 month old that only wants to crawl, plus January is Blah and Cold. I was still working at Caribou and despising juggling yet another thing, not liking the early mornings either!

February- Birthday month! Miles turned 1 on February 13th. He's a sweet little thing. Mike went winter camping, which sounds something like "torture." I got new Nike Shox for Valentine's Day and started running...once a week...but still. We started Financial Peace University, and started a new way of thinking!

March- I kept on running...still just once a week, but hey at least it was something. It's hard to be motivated to get out and run in the cold. I was also absolutely swamped with school this month. This trimester was finishing on March 31, so busy, busy, busy.

April- brought a little more breathing room since I was only taking one class. I started looking for daycare, except not really looking, since I didn't have a job. Lacey started fighting night time and I secretly knew it was because she was sleeping in late and then napping in the afternoon, but I didn't want to wake her (me) up earlier, or cut out her nap time. I started running 2 times a week and was still very out of shape.

May- my mom took the kids for a week!!! Hallelujah. I love having a break. But I love them too and miss them like crazy. I stared running 3 times a week. Weather is warmer in May and that makes me a HAPPY CAMPER!

June- Miles hit the age Lacey was when I had him, which is still completely insane to think about having them that close. I finished up school for the summer and was looking forward to a glorious 2 months off. I found out daycare was more expensive than I thought.

July- I turned 27 on the 4th of July and was happy I am still a few years from 30. I started networking and making connections with accountants all over the city. Mike and I took Lacey camping for the first time and she did great, but there were a lot of mosquitos and we came home all dirty and bitten up. We decided to sell our nice car and try to pay off Mike's student loans.

August- Mike turned 29, Miles was 1.5, and we also celebrated our 4 year wedding anniversary. I started gearing up for my last, and most difficult semester. Somehow Lacey quit napping and this freaked me out (study time??). It was really hot outside, Mike re-did our sidewalk, and we paid off his student loans!! This made about $18,000 in 6 months. Ah.maz.ing.

September-Back and school. Looking for a job. Busy. Happy it is fall.

October- Lacey turned THREE. Big girl! I was so busy with school I thought I was going to lose my mind, maybe I did, I can't remember. Had SIX interviews and am exhausted thinking about preparing for them. Received multiple offers (!!), and accepted an internship with a firm to begin in January.

November- Just said "no," to sweets that is. Began looking for, and found a daycare for the kids. It snowed a lot (cry), and we had a very boring, sad, and uneventful Thanksgiving because Mike had to work all day Black Friday so we had to stay here. I locked my keys in the car at 7:00 a.m. on Black Friday and had to pay $144 to get my doors unlocked. I went to Fargo with the kids for 3 days and had fun. I could see the light at the end of the school tunnel.

December- Finished school on the 6th and graduated on the 16th. Dealt with more snow, and am depressed at the thought of it being here for 4 more months. Looking forward to beginning work, but also scared of the busy changes heading my way. Mike has been asked to be in the photo shoot for the Fargo Marathon ad campaign and I am excited to tag along to watch. Very Excited for Christmas!!! Really looking forward to 2011!! Overall, 2010 has been a great year, but 2011 already looks promising and full of changes!

Baby Morgan Blanket

2010-12-21T20:53:00.000-08:00

Did anyone grow up with a thermal type blanket with satin trim? I know I am not the only one.

When I was pregnant with Lacey my mom picked one up for her to have and it instantly became her favorite blanket. Naturally, when Miles came along, I wanted another one, in blue, for him.

He's in love with it too. I am pretty sure both my kids would marry these blankets.

I have to strategically wash them around nap times and bedtimes.

So a few weeks ago I got to thinking about daycare and bringing our blankets there. They will have to have them to sleep. Suddenly all these terrible thoughts of forgetting our blankets at daycare, or the blankets getting stomped on and dragged around by other kids, was freaking me out. Nothing.can.happen.to.these.blankets. No one in this house would sleep. I needed a back up.

My mom bought our first round of blankets at JCPenny's and Lacey's tag still shows the brand, Bright Future. But after checking 3 different Penny's and having no luck I began to get a little worried. No problem I thought, I'll just find one online. Well, wouldn't you know it. These blankets, originally called a Baby Morgan blanket, are COVETED, rare, and really hard to find.

The company went out of business a few years ago (I think 2007), and they companies carrying these blankets have just been selling off the remainders since then. So Lacey's was purchased in 2007 and Miles' was purchased in the fall of 2008. But now we are in 2011 and eBay is the only place to get them.

For $50-$95 a piece.

I threw up a little when I saw that.

I refuse to believe that I couldn't find something at a better price. A little bit of Internet searching later and I found these for $12.99. I'll let you know if they come close.

At least we now have a back-up.

These are a few of my favorite things--for winter!

2010-12-17T12:58:00.000-08:00

Ashley posted about a few of her favorite things, and I thought I'd join in. I'll do a little spin though, and list some of MY (read: not for the kids) favorite things to make it through the cold and the snow.

1) A really good lotion- I reach for Eurcerin Intensive Repair lotion- winter air is dry, dry, dry. Regular 'daily lotions' won't cut it for me. I'll wake up itchy in the middle of the night. Instead, I go all the way to the ultimate lotion. This is fan.tas.tic.

2) A really good coat- I have a black North Face down winter jacket, I believe it is called the "Destiny Down". No matter what, if you live somewhere as cold or as snowy as Minnesota, you need to stay warm. It will run you about $200-$250, but probably one of the best investments ever. I am never cold with this jacket. It was -10 the other morning, and I was a-okay!

3) A really good pair of gloves- This goes right along with a good coat. Those fingers need to stay warm! Bulky gloves are out of the question, since I have to buckle kids in and out of car seats. Those $1 Target gloves will work, but they aren't doing much for keeping your hands warm! (Really, do they do anything)? So my glove of choice are these Smartwool Cozy Gloves. They aren't thick, and you may wonder how on earth they'll keep your hands warm, but it must be something to do with the 100% merino wool. I have bad circulation, and my fingers usually would get tingly and numb with cheap gloves, but these babies keep my fingers nice and toasty. I'll never use anything else again! Again- small investment at $30, but they are sooo good you'll never let them out of your sight!

4) Really good hot beverages- I think it is super important to constantly be drinking something hot during winter. I have a steady stream of coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or even just hot water, heading down my throat. (Sipping hot water was the one thing that made me less nauseous when I was pregnant, so I have really fond memories of it).

And the daddy of all hot drinks the infamous: White Chocolate Peppermint Mocha- duh. These are the best when going for a walk in the cold. Take a sip, swallow, then breathe in some cold air. The peppermint wakes you up :)

5) Really good reads- what else are you going to do when you are stuck inside? You could watch football, but gross. One of my favorite blogs is Her Bad Mother. I find she has a very interesting writing style and doesn't just write about Mommy Blog type writing (meaning, she is not a mommy blog, although she IS a mom and writes about her kids often). Check out these articles from her: She and The Bad Mother Manifesto. She makes me want to be a better mother, not in a "look at these fantastic and fun adventures I go on with my kids" type of way, but in a "As mothers what we are doing is critically important. It's the most important work we will ever do. Let's invest in our children, let's raise them to be fantastic, let's rejoice that we are all different, all make different decisions, but all love our kids" type of way.

Meeting Newborns

2010-12-17T12:33:00.000-08:00

Don't you just LOVE meeting a newborn baby? I do! Meeting someone else's newborn baby isn't as amazing as meeting your own, but it is still fantastic.

We got to meet our friends' 9 day old baby girl last night and she was SOOO PRECIOUS. Almost made me want another one...

ALMOST.

When someone has their first baby I love the innocence that surrounds it. Bringing home your first baby for the first time is absolutely magical. Not to say that having other children isn't as wonderful, but there is something absolutely marvelous about that first baby. You can just sit and sit and sit for hours with them, rock them, nap with them, feed them, and just relax.

But here is the thing. As I was holding baby Olive, Lacey and Miles were ALL OVER ME. It was not relaxing at all. AT. ALL. That's why the first baby is so magical, you get them all to yourself. There are no other mouths to feed, bodies to get dressed, hands to wash, projects to be created, etc. It's just you and them. And realizing how much work it would be having 2 small ones and a newborn scares me.

IT SCARES ME A TON.

And while some women are Super Mom and can handle all of that and blossom through it. I would not. I told Mike that in 8 years I may want another baby. Maybe just one more to hold and spoil. Maybe. But for now I am 100% content watching new parents love and learn with their newborns, while I can cruise over and hold them, or babysit for a couple of hours so the new parents can get a break.

There is still something addictive about a newborn baby though. I don't think that will ever go away!

a day in December

2010-12-13T12:19:00.001-08:00

Oh, December. It is only the 13th and you have totally and completely outdone yourself. The snow in our entire yard is taller than both of my children, which either will be fantastic for fort building, or really annoying for getting stuck.

We'll worry about which, when the temperature reaches some number over ZERO.

Anyway, on this Saturday we woke up happy because there was A LOT of snow on the ground.

This little thing LOVES snow.

We are a bit sick in this house, please note: water, vitamins, a couple varieties of homeopathic cough syrup, motrin, and probably some other junk thrown in there. Rest assured, we are on the mend.

Lacey decided to get bundled up and head outside while Mike was shoveling. Miles had no interest in going outside!

Here the snow is about 8 inches deep. She is standing on the sidewalk which you can't see. We have a lot more snow to fall!

It's really high up on those legs!

Here is our street in front of the house. It's actually quite a busy road. Not Today!!!

This is our car, we are happy we got it out before the plows came and snowed it in further.

Here is the snow looking in the other direction. It looks pretty bad, but this is not store closing weather quite yet. Yes, Mike was going to head into work.

But, before he went into work, he had to shovel himself out. It took quite a while!

Miles watched from his stool, which was really his potty chair with out the insert thing. Doesn't get him up so high when he is still standing on the ground now does it?

Then Miles decided to build a "fort" His fort was sitting in the rocking horse sideways. I didn't get him while he was actually sitting, he was climbing out. Rats!

Proud of himself (for getting out??) I don't know.

Mike is still shoveling, making little headway.

Later on, Mike had left for work, and Miles was down for a nap, Lacey and I colored.

We pretty much color together every.single.day.

Strawberry Shortcake. Her's is on the left and mine is on the right. She is a rockstar and stays in the lines.

Here she is writing some "L's" on her picture so we know it's hers.

Still snowing.

Miles is up. and SURPRISE!!! Mike came home. They closed the malls. They don't close anything for bad weather here, so you know its really bad when they actually do.

Miles has a shoe fetish. We find Mike's shoes all over our darn house. It's quite obnoxious, but I think he is so cute that I let it slide.

So today he found Mike's boots and LOVED THEM. Although he couldn't actually walk when he put them on. They were too heavy.

After a quick dinner we had baths and then I surprised the kids with Toy Story 2. They love the 1st and the 3rd and I bought them the 2nd for Christmas so I unwrapped it and we all watched it and ate popcorn. A perfect ending to a cold, snowy, blizzardy, day.

And now we are supposed to get more snow.

I am so crabby about this.

Happy Holidays!!

so excited I could scream

2010-12-12T16:16:00.000-08:00

okay I did scream a little.

I went into my Tax final with an 89.5% in the class. No pressure right? The cutoff for an A is a 90% (and no, they do not round up). I LOVE tax. It was by far my favorite accounting class. However, tax is tough because it is soooo rule oriented. There are a million rules and a million exceptions to the rules (I guess that is accounting in general). It's like learning a new language.

My tax final was 18 pages. EIGHTEEN PAGES. It took me 3 hours. I had never seen so many MACRS depreciation problems. Pages and pages. It was rough. I didn't know if I was even capable of driving when I left. The only thought running through my mind was "Death by Tax final."

Well, I got my grade for the final today and I got a 94%!!!! I was so pumped.

The best thing is that is pushed me above that 90% threshold and gave me an A in the class!*

*I did not get an A+ like this picture denotes.

a blizzardy day in December...on it's way!

2010-12-12T08:10:00.000-08:00

Stay tuned. We've chornicled our Day in December! I'll be posting soon!*

* I totally get that the house in the back ground looks like it has a fire in the window. I assure you it does not.
** But they do still have a window AC unit in the upper window. Hilarious.

3 years 11 months

2010-12-07T11:07:00.001-08:00

to. the. day.

On January 6, 2007 I walked into St. Kate's and began working on my accounting major.

I was newly married, I was not pregnant, I was focused. On me. The goal was graduate in December of 2008 with an accounting degree, and get an accounting job.

Who would have thought that 2 kids, 7 moves, and 2 additional years past the goal it was actually going to happen? Me? Nope.

But last night I walked into my math class and I placed my final on the desk, and I left. I was done. I was free. I had done it.

I am not sure what was more fulfilling. Actually being done, or having finished something I said I was going to do. I will admit that when we moved to Seattle, although I still wanted to be in school, I didn't think it was possible, especially when baby #2 came along. But oh my, I really wanted to finish. I wanted to do it for me. I didn't want it to be 10 years later and I was singing my 'shoulda, coulda, woulda's" I needed to finish it for myself. This is what I wanted to do with my life. This.Was.IT.

So many people are still looking for that "purpose" how could I know what it was and not do it?

So, I dived in.

Easy? No. I must admit these last three months, especially, have been a blur. I nearly lost my mind the entire month of October, but some how kept a small slice of sanity, at least enough to plow through.

And now, I am here. I am done, I have a job, and I really believe that this is a pivotal turning point in our lives. So now we are jumping off and diving into new challenges, and I couldn't be more thrilled, and feel so blessed!

money talks...and talks...and talks.

2010-12-03T11:45:00.001-08:00

don't you just LOVE it when someone knows exactly what to say to get under your skin. take yesterday for example:

"Oh my Gosh...you are paying so much in daycare! The amount you pay for 3 weeks of daycare would be how much we spend on a family vacation.

Uh, yeah, with the amount I am making every month you could probably take 4 vacations.

I hate talking about money, and the person I was with yesterday, that is all she wanted to do!

the mistake that cost me $144

2010-12-01T07:45:00.000-08:00

Well, it seems as though the cold has arrived, which is fitting seeing as though it is December. Along with the cold is my deep seeded desire to move. It happens every.single.year. Something along the tune of "get me out of this place!!!" However, I can't fathom moving to Arizona (summers are way too hot), or Florida (hello? humid...ick), or even California (too many people).

I need to move to Nashville, or back to Seattle (yes, I really just said that). We had NO complaints about Seattle's weather. But rest assured, we are not going anywhere. Young kids + close(ish) family = essential.

The Frozen Tundra we will stay.

With the cold comes the need to warm up your car. Because if you don't, you may cry from the cold. Actually, I was taking the kids up to my parents after Thanksgiving (Black Friday + weekend = Husband working 549,355 hours). I didn't want to have them in a coat, just to get hot so I warmed up the car.

I woke up early. Loaded up everything into the car, EXCEPT my cell phone, and I started it up. Now, we live in an URBAN neighborhood. Urban = do not leave your car running with the doors unlocked or someone will steal it. Really. We live in, what I consider, a safe neighborhood, but neighbors have had their cars stolen, so that means it could happen.

I took off the key f.o.b., started the car and locked it. Ran inside, did a few things, got the kids out the door. Pushed the "Unlock" button on the key f.o.b. and...

NOTHING....again....NOTHING....nothing.

Oh, my word. It is 6:45 a.m. on a Holiday weekend and I locked my keys in the car. Happy is not a word I would use to describe my state.

Thankfully I had my cell phone. I was thisclose, to leaving it in the car so that I wouldn't forget it on the counter. Ha! Well, I had it and was googling 24/7 locksmiths, got someone out to our house by 8:00, and $144 and 30 minutes later we were on the road.

Christmas Card 2010

2010-11-24T05:18:00.000-08:00

Every year since we've been married I've decided to do a Christmas card, and now 4 years and 2 kids later I still haven't done one!

I am naming this year "The Year of the Christmas Card." As if I don't have enough on my plate, and now I want to go ahead and put Christmas cards on my to-do list. Oh well, life won't slow down, so I might as well pick up my pace and keep on top of it.

Shutterfly comes highly recommended by almost everyone I have talked to, so I found myself over on their website the other night playing around with some cards. Here are a few of my favorites:

1) Red Family Wall- Monogrammed? Love that! Plus I love having the option of many different pictures, because who seriously just has one picture they love! I also like the fact that Mike and I could take our own picture and have it on the card, if it proves to be too difficult with all of us!

2) O Holy Night- I am a fan of black and white so it should be no surprise that I went with this one as one of my choices. No matter how hard I try I can't seem to get past the classic that black and white gives.
3) Color me Merry- I am a big fan of the multi-colored card against the black and white picture. What a great idea! Plus, it's a fun card and not serious at all which I love.
4) Red Revamped Christmas card-- I love this because it looks vintage, it's simple, plus it's not your typical 5x7. It's 5x5 which is unique and I love.
So- Which one will we use. I have no idea! We have to try to take a family picture and that will determine. If we can get a good family picture, then we'll plan on just using the one picture. If we can't get a good picture, then we'll have to use the smaller, multiple picture card!

These are just a tiny few of all the really great options on Shutterfly. Seriously get over there and get some Christmas cards ordered!

An uphill battle

2010-11-21T08:19:00.000-08:00

Do you ever feel like you can work, and work, and then work some more and still, with all that work, you are barely getting ahead?

I had this slap in the face last week one night. I was in bed, trying to fall asleep, when I started adding up all of the expenses coming up in the next 12 months. Don't ever do this, it is not a good idea!

Needless to say I got up and out of bed because knowing me I would be dreaming about this all night, so I needed a calculator and some paper. Here was my breakdown...

Daycare: $1200 a month x 10 months = $12000
CPA Exam Registration and Fees= $1,000
CPA Exam Review Course $1500-$4000) $2200
Tuition @ School (job will be for credit) $2000

This doesn't include our daycare deposit, the purchase of 2 new carseats, and Christmas shopping.

Here's the deal with the huge daycare bill....I'll be working from January until April 15th, and then studying FULL TIME (yes, 40-50 hours per week) for the CPA exams. I'll start back at the office in October. I have to study this way, I don't have a choice. Each exam suggests you put in 100-120 hours of study time. There are 4 exams, so this will take me all summer. I lie, I do have a choice, I could lose my daycare spot, and stay home with the kids, and then try to study for the exams when I start work back up in October-- after work, all weekend, etc. And people do this, but given the luxury of not having to do this is equivalent of someone asking you if you want a new car...for free...and they'd pay the taxes.

Not joking.

We'll need $17,000, I am sure we will get it, we just won't have much fun with our 2 incomes until I start back up in October. Because we'll be saving every freaking penny!!

I guess we won't be paying off much debt this year and that just sucks. (But I will look on the bright side, we won't have to go into debt for all of this either, so that is great). We'll get those loans down someday, somehow....

Frivilous kitchen gadget I want!!

2010-11-19T11:58:00.000-08:00

The Breville electric milk frother- $129.95

"Employing innovative induction heating technology, this frother quickly and precisely heats up to 25 oz of milk to your ideal temperature and froths it into perfect micro-bubbles with a uniformly silken texture. If you like it extra hot or on the cooler side, dial up your preference using the temperature control. Put it to work making rich, creamy hot chocolate, creating airy foam for cappuccinos and steaming milk for lattes. Two removable frothing discs, one for lattes, the other for cappuccinos, allow you to create anything from silky steamed milk to light bubbly foam."*

*Williams & Sonoma catalog

How I'll be spending my summer vacation

2010-11-15T06:30:00.000-08:00

The CPA exam has a 75% failure rate for 1st time test takers.

Now, that we have that *encouraging* statistic out of the way, I'll let you know that I'll be taking the exam this summer.

But if I manage to fall in the 25% pass rate, I get a $4000 bonus and a pay hike.

AND that means I won't be putting in 8-10 hour work days, followed by 4 hours of studying. Which really is IMPOSSIBLE when you have a family.

So, we'll be sending the kids to daycare, and I'll be studying the days away.

Trust me, you'll hear more details.

daycare visit recap.

2010-11-14T07:42:00.000-08:00

Oh the things you'll find while visiting daycares. Yep, you'll have to turn your eyes away from somethings because I am finding out quickly that there is a huge difference between "I feel confident this person will do a fine job of caring for my child" and "this person does things exactly like I do" The latter doesn't exist.

Yep, that's what I've found out so far. You will not find someone who does things the exact way you do, and I need to just be okay with that. Which coming from a scheduling control freak such as myself. That is hard.

The first daycare we went to was kind of messy. Lots of crumbs on the floor and counters that needed to be wiped down. Not a life or death thing, but still irritating. I mean this is your job, so sweep the floor after breakfast. The kicker with that first visit was the fact that her husband had 2 kegs on the kitchen counter where he was brewing his own beer. Yeah, I think we'll pass. I mean, use your basement or something. Actually I want them in a place where they don't even keep alcohol in the house because seriously if 8 toddlers/preschoolers won't drive you to drink, I don't know what will.

The second place was so much different. She was on 2 acres, about a mile from Mikes work, and had a big play set outside. The kids LOVED her, you could tell. And one of the mothers came by to drop off some toys and she was super cool, and had been with the gal for 4 years and 2 kids. At this place the kids played outside a ton (which I loved) but I didn't see a bunch of toys inside, which I didn't love. Not that rooms full of toys are necessary, but I was just curious as to what they do when it is really too cold to be outside (or rainy etc.). She however did seem like she genuinely loved what she did, and she had a masters degree in elementary education. And she NEVER has openings, but she has a family who is moving in January, so she could take ours. We set up a second visit for this Tuesday so we can see the house more and talk without kids there.

The third place was also fine. But she still had 3 kids living at home and 'sometimes leaves the kids with the college aged daughter when she has to go to appointments' Not a fan of that. Also she was super structured and very serious. Nice though. Her thing was that she was only open Monday-Thursday, and while we only need 4 days a week, we need Tuesday - Friday.

So, as long as #2 still feels right on Tuesday, we'll probably go with her. She's expensive at $220 per child per week, but also said that since we'll have 2 in daycare, there is no way she'll charge us that much. I am curious to see what she comes back with . We'd really like to stay around or under $1200 a month (which is proving to be nearly impossible....seeing as though location #1 was right around that)!

Stay tuned.

The beauy of change.

2010-11-07T11:08:00.000-08:00

My mantra is "the best thing about life, is that we have the ability to change it." If we are ever unhappy with where we are in our story, we have the opportunity to change our situation, or at the very least, change our attitude about the situation.

We are "touring" 4 home daycares this week. The reality of it all is sitting right on my doorstep and I am trying to avoid thinking about it.

I know that I have said it before, but I'll say it again. I never planned on being a stay at home mom. I've always pictured myself working...but then you have a baby, and my oh my, many things change.

I have been sooo blessed to be able to stay home with my kids for the past 2.5 years (has it really been that long?), and although we muddle through some days, and some days I am ripping my hair out, or raising my voice one too many times, it has really been great. I am so happy that I have been able to provide a solid, consistent, structure to their lives, and that every morning after they've woken up, I've been there to wake up with them and take our time to start the day. We relax and laugh at breakfast, and take baths at 10 in the morning, we can have a movie date in the middle of the afternoon if we want.

And now all of that consistency, all of that familiarity, is about to change. Dramatic? Well, probably not to anyone else, but it will be to me. Our lives are going to be somewhat turned upside down, and it will take a while to get used to a new normal. To be perfectly honest I am scared out of my mind.

I'm scared of a million things. Scared I'll hate going to work (something I've worked so hard for), scared the kids will get sick all the time, scared I'll have no balance, scared other kids at daycare will be mean to mine, scared we'll constantly have scheduling issues, scared they won't get the attention they need.

And while I know that all of these things are very valid concerns, I also know that they'll be fine. They'll be (hopefully) excited about going, they'll adjust quickly, and they'll make friends. I know this, but I just have to experience it first hand before I can relax.

Life is about to change. Change is hard, change is scary, but I truly believe that change keeps us moving forward, and keeps us reaching for the next level. Change keeps us from becoming stagnant, and that my friends, is a beautiful thing.

So I am hoping that in a few months I can look back on this post and smile. I can take a deep breath and know that everything is working out just as it should. I can look at all the things I was worried about and I can give myself a little laugh and say it wasn't all that bad!

Just remember that the most wonderful thing about life is our ability to change it!

day 3- no sugar

2010-11-03T20:30:00.001-07:00

Yes!!! I notice a difference. I think...

Today was one of those looooonnnnggg days when my husband went to work at 6:00 a.m. and didn't get home until 9:00 p.m. To top it off, my morning play date fell through. Boo.

But we rallied.

We went to Mike's work this morning in lieu of our pla ydate. He works at a mall and they have an indoor play area that is always bustling with kids (and germs) but my kids like it. Well today, they had REALLY bad attitudes and were really crabby with each other, and Mike was too busy to talk to us, so that was a bust and we left.

We rallied again.

This time I noticed that when we got home, and I looked at my mess of a house I felt some energy to work at it. Then I made lunch and put Miles down for a nap. Then Lacey and I worked at drawing letters (She has the "L" down pat!), and we did an art project.

Do you see where this is heading? Probably not. You see I am doing all of these things with the kids... taking them out, working on projects, cleaning the house, and I am doing it all without even thinking about it. I haven't even turned on the TV! It's like I have some sort of magical energy (and I know for a fact it is not from coffee because I had less than normal this morning).

I kept on rallying.

Then I took the kids to the Woodlake Nature Center where we "hiked" saw turtles and snakes and all sorts of "wildlife."

We came home and they ate salad.

We watched Toy Story 3 and cuddled on the couch.

They had baths.

I had energy, I never have energy at 7:30 pm after being with the kids all.day.long.

I kind of think it's because I haven't had sugar in 3 days (which I get isn't long, but it has felt like an eternity and it isn't any fun at all).

To be honest, I am hating not eating sugar, but the fact that I could quit anytime is what is making me not quit. Plus, if I start feeling like this we'll see where it goes...

No Sweets November

2010-11-02T10:36:00.000-07:00

I eat a lot of crap.

It's not uncommon for me to have a cookie and coffee for breakfast, or some candy or ice cream for lunch. It was really starting to bother me because 1) I know its bad; 2) It was sucking my energy dry; and 3) It was setting a terrible example for my kids.

We decided that we had become to lackadaisical is this department and needed to cut it off cold turkey. So we decided to cut sweets in November (except for Thanksgiving Day), to try to break the habit.

I should point out, that it's not a No-Sugar deal. That's not the goal. The goal is also not to be on any sort of diet. The goal is to make healthier, more well balanced food choices, especially around the holidays when it's very easy to eat a ton of junk.

So what is a sweet? We decided that candy, soda, cake, cookies, and ice cream are out. Those that are not out include muffins, scones, or quick breads (all in moderation), Jamba Juice, and Lattes (not sure where I stand regarding mocha's, but we never get them so it doesn't really apply). Basically we just need to make healthier choices and I can already see it working. We are all snacking on hummus, pita, apples, cheese, peanut butter, and crackers.

It does suck though. All I want to do is inhale SUGAR.

And I have a pounding headache today. I think it's from sugar withdrawal.

the Cold.

2010-10-29T05:13:00.001-07:00

It was 29 degrees when I woke up today.

Twenty-Nine.

In the beginning stages of winter, 29 is really cold. Come January, we'd consider it a heat-wave, and come March, I'd be thinking "the snow is almost melting!!" But it's October, so 29 leaves me frigid.

I start to wonder 1) how am I going to make it through winter, if I can't stay warm now, and 2) if 29 makes me this cold, what will -29 do to me. Let's not think about that okay?

So, this winter I am going to try to combat the cold by staying warm. Sounds simple right? But let me tell you that it is oh, so, easy to hop out to the car with a flimsy little jacket on, and they curse the cold, and shake uncontrollably. So I decided that regardless of how "over-bundled" I look I am wearing gloves, hats, boots*, and my fantastic North Face coat all.the.time. I will be wearing leggings under my jeans, layers of long sleeve shirts, slippers or socks always, and drinking a continual flow of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.

Because I am pretty sure the only way I can make it through winter is by STAYING WARM!

Daycare Options: Pros and Cons.

2010-10-27T06:26:00.000-07:00

Disclaimer: This may turn into a daycare blog until I find someone. My apologies.

Nannies
Pros:
1) I wouldn't have to get my kids up, fed, dressed, and out the door at an obscene time in the morning.
2) In the winter months, this also means I wouldn't have to deal with bulky winter clothes, heating up the car for extremely long times.
3) I wouldn't have to drive in the pitch black with 2 sleepy kids and drop them off somewhere, which just sort of seems mean.
4) If my kids are slightly sick, I could still go to work. Important.

Cons:
1) EXPENSIVE. Going rate for 2 is $15 an hour. Which is a lot. (I know someone out there charges less, and I need to find them).
2) No preschool program- unless the nanny does it on her own, or I pay extra to send them to school.
3) Risk the nanny being sick, and not being able to show up = bad.
4) No one around to hold nanny accountable for their actions....invest in nanny-cams?

In-Home:
Pros:
1) Cheap(er)! We could actually afford this.
2) Around other kids.
3) Most have preschool programs

Cons:
1) Hard to get into--Few openings.
2) I find that the provider is generally good with the kids, but I have no control who else may come into contact with the kids (i.e. brother in law visiting from out of town--does this happen?)
3) Age range. Some in home daycares focus on smaller children, but some are birth to 12. I am not totally keen on having my little kids around much older kids (although to be fair, that would mostly be in the summer months).

Centers:
Pros:
1) Structured.
2) Music classes, outside activities, arts and crafts etc.
3) Reliable- always will be open. Which is key when you are working as a tax accountant during tax season.

Cons:
1) Cost! $200-$250 per week per child (here in MN)
2) I have heard that they often skirt under the rules (ratios, lesson plans etc.)
3) Less individualized attention, more sterile.
4) High turnover rate.

(although I have a friend from college who worked at this daycare inside a nursing home and they interact with the older people living there, which I think is a cool concept. We are looking into that).

Are there more pros and cons? Yes! and if you think of them let me know. Chances are we are going to go with a home daycare, unless I can somehow find a SAHM who wants to come over, or a Nanny willing to work for less than $15 an hour (because that is $600 a week).

We'll keep you posted! Tonight we are driving around to addresses of in-home providers to see if they are a place I'd like to send my kids. We'll be making phone calls next week.

A day in OCTOBER

2010-10-26T07:16:00.001-07:00

October. I love October. It is for sure one of my favorite months and I am not quite sure why. I'm thinking it has to do with the changing of the seasons. It's not frigid and blah outside, rather we have a lot of bright, crisp, sunny days. That is love.

I decided to document my day in October last Thursday the 21st. My friend had borrowed me her SLR camera (something I am drooling over), and I wanted to take as many "necessary" pictures as I could.

So, without further adieu...A Day In October.

There has been a lag since I took these pictures and documented them out. I'm pretty sure I was up studying and drinking coffee because that is what I do every day. Who wants to see that though? No one I hope!

Lacey was up early on this particular day. We hung out and ate scones.

and I took a lot of pictures of her.

Then her brother was up, happy as a clam and holding the trusty Thomas the Train.
I don't know if he let go of that toy on this day...

I guess he decided to feed the horse some train for breakfast.

We ate breakfast and got dressed. I put on Super Why, while I got dressed.
Here is Miles doing the actions that they are asking him to do!

Lacey is doing them too.

We made a quick trip to Target. I had an interview on this afternoon, so I was looking for a new shirt to wear under my blazer.

I hate suits.
Puke.

Anyway, we came home and ate lunch.

And then played for a bit after lunch.
I am not sure what was going through Lacey's mind in this picture, but I thought it was funny.

Cute boy. Heading for a nap.

More Thomas the Train.

While Miles napped, Lacey watched some Dora, while I got ready for the interview.
I was about to go on my 5th interview in a couple of weeks, and while I was happy to HAVE the interviews, getting ready for them, rushing the kids out to Mike's work, and then actually doing the interview, was getting pretty old.

Lacey's hair is finally long enough to do something with!

Watching Dora.

Coloring.
Lacey is a rockstar color-er.
She loves it and she actually does a pretty good job of staying in the lines.

Goofball.

From here I rushed the kids out to Mike's work, so he could watch them while I was at my interview. Then I rushed off to the interview. I left instructions for Mike to take some pictures of the kids, which he did not do.

The interview lasted 2 hours and they gave me an offer on the spot.

I was pumped. It seems like a great firm and pays really well (always a bonus).

The job is actually an internship, which is what I wanted. Accounting internships typically end up in full time offers (unless you are terrible), and you work until April 15th and then get the summer off and come back to work full time in October.

Sounds like a great plan to me.

We can try out the whole work full-time thing and then if we hate it, we can figure out something else. But I don't think I'll hate it.

I will hate finding daycare though.

one of those days

2010-10-15T12:06:00.000-07:00

do you ever just have one of those days?

When you wake up late and just cannot get moving.

When your kids are fussy and you aren't really sure why.

When you go to the store, get all the way to the cash register, and realize you forgot your wallet?

When you get home, already frustrated, and realize that the power is out in the whole house, and you can't make the macaroni and cheese you've promised?

When the peanut butter and jelly you've made instead is met with screams of un-delight?

When you finally get them to eat their "alternative" lunch, the power comes back on?

When you realize the fridge isn't working, and hasn't been for a while judging by the temperature of the Milk?

When you realize that you will be literally be pouring groceries down the drain?

When you realize that today you just need to get your rally on because that's all you've got left?

20 months

2010-10-14T11:20:00.000-07:00

Miles was 20 months yesterday. I didn't realize it until today when someone asked how old he was.

"He's 18...no, 19...WAIT he's 20 months."

Not that 20 months old deserves a big celebration or anything, but come on, I generally give a little cheer on his (or her) month birthday. At least until they are 2.

Sorry bud! Here's to 20 months. You're ringing it in, by reminding me the terrible two's are just around the corner.

A two year old and a three year old. Oh Lordy, let's hope we make it this next year!

I'm still here!

2010-10-13T10:32:00.000-07:00

wow, it's been a while huh? I guess between class, class, and yes, more class, a little girl turning 3, a week long visit to grandma's house, and three, going on four, maybe five interviews, it's been a busy month.

1. Class

If I have one piece of advice for anyone on the planet it is this: Do NOT (repeat 1,000 times), try to do school while you have kids. Initially it wasn't all that bad, I was taking lower level classes, they weren't too demanding, and I had kids that napped on a regular basis. However. OH MY GOODNESS. School is kicking me in the rear end this semester.

I am forever trying to find the perfect balance of being constantly preoccupied and having 1,000 things to do, and knowing when urgent, isn't really that urgent, and to just stop and breath, and take in the moment. For what it is, in all it's glory.

Less than 2 months to go.

2. Birthday Girl

October 8th is one of my favorite days of the year. I think its the perfect day for a birthday, and my little girl is lucky enough to have this be HER day. Granted, on this particular birthday, she was with Grandma and Grandpa, not us, she still had a pretty special day and was spoiled rotten. And then got to have a second birthday party yesterday after we picked her up.

Her favorite present this year? New snow boots. Weird huh? Gosh, she was so excited, and 1) she had seen them before and 2) she has hardly ever played in the snow. But she did get an entire winter ensemble so hopefully we can get her out and building a snowman this year.

3. A week with Grandma

My parents rock. They seriously do. Two or three times a year they take our kids off our hands for a good seven or so days. It is amazing and much needed. Granted, this particular week fell over Lacey's 3rd birthday, it was still very needed, and much appreciated.

4. Interviewing until my heart's content.

Job hunting and interviewing blow. Especially when you are already crazy busy with school Trying to job hunt on top of it borders on insanity. I didn't get the first position I interviewed for, but I wasn't all that surprised, I had projects, papers, and 2 exams that week and to be honest prepping for an interview wasn't my biggest priority. I am still waiting to hear back from interviews 2 and 3, and was contacted by another firm yesterday to interview. I'd just love to get a call extending an offer and I can move onto more important things, like finding daycare...

The state of my cupboards.

2010-10-02T16:31:00.000-07:00

Andrea was nice enough to ask me what I'd be eating tonight.

My date with the couch.

Remember?

Here is the current state of my pantry.

Top Shelf: Steel Cut Oats and Cream of Wheat
Bottom Shelf: Some vitamins, random can's of beans that we don't know what to do with, tuna (but we have no cheese for melts), graham crackers, and a can of tomato soup that I bought for some recipe and never used.

We are also out of bread, cheese, yogurt, juice, eggs, and cereal. Boo.

No, this isn't a joke. It's actually pretty typical. Mike and I are probably the only people I know who use up every.darn.thing. in our cupboards before we head to the store.

Not necessarily proud of it. I want some back up food!

At this current moment I am starving and trying to get a hold of Mike to see if he can bring me either Chipotle or Pizza Hut breadsticks on his way home.

So...hopefully that is what I am going to eat!

School Mom

2010-10-01T16:22:00.000-07:00

A lot of times I'll get comments relating to my full-time student status and full-time mom status. Something along the lines of "I don't know how you manage."

I am here to tell you that juggling, or finding the time for everything isn't really the issue. That part is quite easy.

You know what the real issue is? The real issue is that after being with the kids all.day.long. the second they go to bed is my chance to study. But, do you think I want to pull out my books and study? NO!!!

I want to sit on the couch, and watch TV, and think about nothing, and eat.

That is by far the hardest part. There are a lot of hours in the day, but feeling like you are required to utilize each and every one of them pretty much sucks.

And with that I end by telling you I've had a busy week, and tomorrow when I pick up the kids from the sitters, bring them home, and put them to bed, I am going to sit on the couch, and watch TV, and think about nothing, and eat.

At least that's my goal.

A day in SEPTEMBER

2010-09-26T15:26:00.000-07:00

Welcome to September. Here is our day. On this particular day I decided to document, we had a BAD day. One of those days you just want to run away, with your hands over your ears, and sit in silence.

It all started at 6:52 am...which I totally get is NOT that early.

And this is what I woke up to! 2011 Individual Income Tax.
It's super exciting. It really is.

When the kids woke up, I wouldn't describe them as happy.

Unhappy was a little more their style on this particular day.

I was stressed, and they were crabby. Miles was teething, and in the mood for NOTHING. Plus I woke up to messes galore, which is probably one of the worst feelings imaginable.

Mike calls this bench, my bench. It is not necessarily my stuff, but rather it is stuff he doesn't know what to do with, or doesn't want to deal with, so he leaves it for me. (I kid you not, this is what he told me).

Oh, I had a bunch of clean laundry to fold too.

And no kids' dishes.

They were all here. Dirty. This IS a good day!

Can you tell he's feeling it? I seriously don't know if he could be any more grouchy.

On this day in September, Miles threw THREE tantrums in the first 30 minutes he was awake. Below, is number three.

Somehow (by the grace of God), we made through the morning. we got dressed, found something to eat, washed dishes, cleaned up the bench and folded laundry.

We also watched TV which is quite evident below.

On this day in September, we also ate homemade macaroni and cheese for lunch, with grapes on the side. We found it quite fun to put our cup in our bowl and drink that way.

Really. It was fun.

On this day in September, it was pouring rain all day, so we made a fort.

Then we put Miles down for his nap, and Lacey and I did 30 day shred. Level 3. It was hard.

Then we colored. Because that is what this little girl LOVES to do!

She's pretty good at staying in the lines.

After Miles woke up from his nap, it was her turn to be crabby. She was in and out of her room for the next 45 minutes or so. It was rough.

I heard a lot of screaming on this September day.

I made corn chowder for dinner, which was a medium hit. Next Daddy came home and ate. Finally the rain eased up so we pulled on our rain boots and went to find some splashing puddles!

Starting with small ones, but we found some bigger ones too!

Swinging with Dad, always a hit!

We came inside because Miles kept sitting in the puddles. He was soaked, but it wasn't warm enough out to be walking around soaking wet. They were in bed by 7:55, which means Mike and I were able to watch some season premieres in peace. It was rather amazing.

So this was our day in September. It was a tough day. At least the first half!

Coming Soon!

2010-09-24T05:32:00.001-07:00

So last night I was in bed, ready to sleep at 9:54 pm. This in and of itself is an amazing feat. Scratch that. It is not as amazing as the fact that we had both kids in bed by 8:00 so we could watch The Office alone. That was more amazing.

Anyway.

I could not fall asleep. Isn't that always how it works? Finally in bed early and then you just cannot fall asleep. I just kept thinking of wanting a new camera and where I could find the best deals, and if I really have to wait until Christmas. Then I was thinking about how Beauty and the Beast is coming out of the Disney Vault on October 5th and that is just in time for Lacey's 3rd Birthday and I want to get it for her, but where is the best place to go wait in line. Thankfully, I'll be in Fargo dropping the kids off for a week, so I am assuming Fargo has shorter lines. I won't even be with Lacey on her 3rd Birthday, what kind of mother am I? etc. etc. etc.

Probably something to do with the 4:00 pm pot of coffee I had.

Then at 3:50 am Lacey starts screaming. So I bolt to her room. I am not sure if my bolting is just a mama's instinct, or if it's so she doesn't wake up her brother. I certainly don't bolt out of bed when my alarm goes off! She is sobbing cause her pillow is crooked.

Yes. I kid you not.

Then she says she is thirsty and needs a drink of water and she needs a vitamin. When I tell her she can't have a vitamin and pathetic sobbing ensues, I give her a vitamin and cringe when I think about the sugar settling on her teeth all night. No one is ready for battle at 4 in the morning. You would have given her the vitamin too.

Anyway, now that you have heard about my night. Stay tuned because my DAY IN SEPTEMBER is on it's way!! Don't forget. I want to read all about your day too!!

just try yoga

2010-09-20T14:51:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday I attended the Accounting and Auditing Student Conference held here in Minneapolis.

I went to a "behind close doors" panel, which basically is people working in the field, telling you everything you'd ever want to know what it's really like.

Well, since accountants notoriously work 60+ hours a week during busy season, I thought I'd ask a question about work/life balance. Seems simple right. So how does someone manage relationships, spouse, and family while working so much?

1) Look at me like I am crazy. Really crazy.
2) Tell me that (hahaha) you aren't married (hahaha). Apparently that's a funny idea.
3) Suggest I take a yoga class to relax.

Right. Because when I am working 60 hours a week, the first thing I want to do is leave my family alone a little bit longer while I go to a yoga class.

Think again.

they call it balance.

2010-09-19T06:10:00.000-07:00

We've had this discussion in our house lately about who has more pressing things to do. With only 2 weeks of school under my belt, I am already feeling the crunch. Twelve credits, plus preparing for multiple job interviews, working on projects, keeping the house clean, and of course hanging with my babies, all takes its toll and has major responsibilities.

Of course my husband is working 50 hours a week, in the middle of a company franchise, interviewing with another company, and trying to fit in some side work on a weekly basis. He's busy too.

But here is my problem. For the last 3 weeks my husband has had to be working on his "days off" which means that I have been home with the kids for nearly 21 days straight. I appreciate that he's usually here in the evenings. The fact that he is working and making extra money sn't totally the problem because I chose to have kids, so I expect to be here with them and take care of them, (plus the additional money is great). However, I frequently get the "I just need to get this finished so I can get it off my mind and relax." This is my problem and this morning I finally realized why that bothered me so much.

Imagine if you will, having a list of things that you are falling behind on, and every time you think you are going to get the opportunity to work on it, something comes up. Someone else has things that are more important. That's my problem. The things I need to get done aren't of much importance. I am having to stay here and try to figure out a way to read 3 pages of Income Tax while the kids amazingly occupy themselves for those few precious moments. Reading textbooks 2 pages at a time throughout the day isn't what I had in mind when I say I am studying. Stress levels are running high, the list keeps growing. Not a fight. Just a frustration. Juggling has a whole new meaning.

I think he "got it" this morning, so hopefully we can find a little more balance in the weeks to come. Anyone else struggle with balance and juggling of life?

Math

2010-09-14T04:58:00.000-07:00

Really the word can send shivers down many spines.

I've always been stuck with the toughest math teachers. I took advanced Algebra freshman year of high school and my teacher was anal. We were to:
-use college ruled paper
-holes were to always be on the left side
-we were to only use a pencil
-we were not allowed a calculator
-we were to show all of our work
- and our equals signs as we worked each problem were to always line up.
Not so ironically, all this thing are very, very normal to me now.

Which is a pleasure since I have to take math this semester. Wait. Finite Math. (I am really not sure how finite math is different than any other math I've taken. All I know is that 1) I shouldn't have to take it because I know all this stuff from previous math classes and 2) They are making me take it if I want to graduate in December).

So during last night's lecture, I just worked review problems. 61 problems in just under an hour, I think he went through 3 problems with the class. See, it's simple stuff! Thank you Mr. Montgomery from 9th grade algebra for making this second nature!

(oh, and Miles can count to 9. It's the cutest thing EVER)!

Blogging: A look back.

2010-09-09T12:07:00.001-07:00

Do you know what I love about blogging? It's that I can look back and "remember" things that I would not have remembered otherwise.

Lacey is one month shy of turning 3.
Miles is 19 months and seems to think he can do everything all by himself.

In fact in the last 48 hours, he has developed the not-so-magical skill of SCREAMING if he doesn't get his way.

Anyway, I digress, all that to say that blogging through the years is great.

I love looking back and seeing where we were, what I was struggling with, and what I was looking forward to. Things I thought were most likely the end of the world as I knew it, and small victories with the kids and life in general.

Except for a couple of months after Lacey was born, and a couple of more months after Miles was born, I've got it blogged. (Funny how I blanked out during those same time periods both times...).

Anyway, so take a look back with me at September 8, 2008 and September 11, 2009.

Ironically I didn't blog on September 9th either year, so we're averaging here...

Award

2010-09-08T04:54:00.000-07:00

Just call me Mrs. Versatile.

Surprising? Yes. This blog is full of snippets of our lives and my not so good writing and photography skills. But Ashley gave me this award and I accept it with open arms. She likes the name of my blog!? That makes me happy.

So I am now instructed to do the following (can I just tell you I am skipping Auditing homework for this...sacrifice).

Answer this question: If you had the chance to go back and change one thing in your life, would you and what would it be?

This is a tough question because I really do love my life and if I had changed one thing, everything that followed would have changed as well. Some days its "why didn't I finish school before having kids??" But then not having my kids would be a missing link into this story of life. Sometimes I think "We shouldn't have had kids 16 months apart" but then if we hadn't gotten pregnant with Miles I would be missing my son, who is PURE JOY, in my life. So this is a really hard question.

We are all writing our life stories, page by page, chapter by chapter, and I think it's the struggles that make our lives SO MUCH more interesting. Who wants to read a story that's predictable and boring? Do you? I know I don't. I like my crazy, don't know where it's going next, life.

But if I had to change one thing, it would be cutting my hair short the summer before my junior year in college (and dying it black-I am a natural blonde). I have been growing it out ever since!

The 2nd thing you have to do is, pick 4 people and give them this award. You then have to inform the people that they have received this award.

I am not picking 4 people because I can't really. I follow a lot of accounting blogs and very few friend blogs (but I do love those friend blogs)!! However I am going to pick one person, because she just started a new blog and I want her to blog more!! My award goes to Seanna!

The 3rd thing you MUST do, is thank the lovely individual who gave you the award.

Thank you Ashley!! I always love reading your blog, and getting ideas of things to do or look forward to do with my duo! Plus little Britt is just edible.

You need to share 7 things about yourself.

1. I am a full-time mom, full-time student. Life is busy.

2. I am scared to death of flying. I guess not scared to death, because I will fly, but I am scared of it.

3. Sadly, I am not creative, but I am gifted in organization so that's a plus.

4. I always think about how much extra money we have to spend on winter attire living in MN. Boots, multiple coats, snowpants, hats, gloves, scarves, mittens etc. It's crazy.

5. I feel as though I am in a weird stage of life right now, prepping to go back to work. I don't have any mom friends that work, so I feel like I am out on a limb. Strange feeling I tell you, and a bit lonely.

6. I cried last night after I put Miles to bed because he is getting so big. He's losing his "baby" face and putting on a "boy" face. He can't do this to me, he is my baby.

7. You know how Gap Kids had the sale on their jeans Buy One get a second pair for $10. Well, we did that for both the kids (because gap jeans are THE BEST JEANS EVER AND FIT THEM PERFECTLY). Well, then we found out they were also running a promotion of Buy 4 pairs of Jeans, get a 5th pair free. So now we get another pair. Who will get it? I am hoping ME!

What's going on over here.

2010-09-03T12:17:00.001-07:00

It seems that we have made the quick flip from blistering hot summer, to brisk, cool, fall. It seemed fitting that the last really warm day was August 31st. I am personally pleased with the beautiful, cool weather we've been having. Nothing makes me quite as happy as sweaters and boots.

We've solved the daycare dilemma. Initially, we had decided to go ahead and hire someone and take the money out of our Christmas fund. Which I know sounds totally depressing, but we figured we have quite a bit of time to reimburse that fund. Then a couple of Mike's employees, whom both I and the kids know pretty well, came over for dinner and told us that they would just alternate Saturday's. So we decided to go this route. We'll still be paying them the same, but this way we have a little more flexibility if my parents take them one week, or if Mike takes a Saturday off. That way we'll save a bit of money because they aren't counting on this so much. Mike will just schedule them to work at the store if we don't need them!

You know that "free" money I talked about. Uggs, strollers, and hair color? Well, scratch that for now. I got the stroller (and we love it), but the uggs and the hair color will have to wait. Boo. But I had to spend an extra $127 on school, so there.

So, classes start next week, I am still researching, applying, interviewing, networking, hoping and praying for a job. Most hires happen in October, so after Labor Day is when things start getting intense. I think they should do their hiring in the summer so I'd have one less thing to worry about!

This Hair is No Joke

2010-09-01T13:10:00.001-07:00

In case you're curious how we spend our mornings,

we generally spend a lot of time working on this mess.

Can you blame me if I leave the house, hair uncombed, on occasion.
It's a piece of work!

Budget Buster

2010-08-26T20:18:00.000-07:00

This fall I was hoping to hire a sitter for about 10 hours a week so I could go out by myself during the day and get some work done. Then I realized that I wouldn't be able to afford to pay someone for 10 hours a week, but I was definitely in need of someone for Saturday afternoons while I was in class.

This way Mike wouldn't be forced to work every Sunday.

So tonight I was doing our budget and there is no way that I'll be able to pay someone even 5-6 hours a week. Sitters are expensive, especially when you've got two kids.

So, I am slightly (very) grouchy right now. I realize this semester will be a lot of ball juggling, late nights and early mornings. It will 9 hours of Saturday class, Saturday night church, and long Sunday's with Mike working every one of them. It will be squeezing in study time, an hour here and an hour there.

Staying home is seriously a sacrifice because we feel the crunch a lot!

I was crabby, and was about to go over the budget with him to show him the numbers, when he informed me that he locked my keys in the garage, his keys were locked in my car (which still doesn't have a spare key since we just got it), and his car, which does have a spare key, was still at his work 15 miles away because I picked him up tonight.

The night keeps getting better!

the most ridiculous

2010-08-25T11:42:00.000-07:00

Yesterday when Lacey woke up, she seemed a little hoarse, but then she went merrily along her way. After her nap yesterday she was a grouch. The most crabbiest kind of grouch.

Lacey: I don't want this blue plate...(sob, sob, sob)
Me: Hun, that plate is fine.
Lacey: I just only want apple juice...(sob, sob, sob)
Me: sorry, you can have water
Lacey: I want my black car, I can't find it (sob, sob, sob)

etc. etc. etc.

You would have thought that with a nap she would have been a happy camper.

Woke up hoarse, grouchy after nap, didn't eat any dinner, asked to go to bed? By now, you are probably connecting the dots, but I was clueless.

Until 12:03 a.m. When she woke up coughing this crazy, rattling, cough. I swear I didn't know if she could even breath. Plus she was sweaty, and lethargic. She's crying and I am fumbling around in the bathroom trying to find some meds. I hear my husband holler out "Lacey, STOP crying, just be quiet!!"

Oh. no. he. didn't.

If you have ever wondered if your 'mama bear' instinct can come out on your own husband...it can (and it usually happens in the middle of the night).

Me (in a loud whisper): Mike, BE QUIET, she can hardly breath.
Mike: She needs to be quiet, she is going to wake Miles up!!
Me: No, YOU need to be quiet, she's sick.
Mike (irritated): How did she JUST NOW get sick? It's because she swallowed her toothpaste. (insert our bedroom door shutting).

And that, my friends, is the most ridiculous 'conversation' I think I have ever had.

And I told him that as soon as I got back into bed. Actually, I made fun of him.

He's the one who brushes her teeth. What, did she swallow the entire tube of toothpaste?

A day in AUGUST

2010-08-24T12:14:00.000-07:00

Saturday, August 21, 2010

We woke up and were a little, okay a lot, crabby.
We had been out late the night before, but still managed to wake up early.
Why does that always happen?

Anyway, I was prepped. Staying out past bedtimes has its consequences, and I knew to expect this. Really just expecting we are going to have a rough and whiny day, makes it less difficult.
I was not surprised when she whined for milk and drank it on the floor...

Then we went to get her brother up. I don't just let my kids sleep in, it throws the entire day off. I get that not every parent would agree with me, but that's okay.
He was still sleeping.

Waking up is hard to do!

But it doesn't take long before this dude is ready to go!

Our friends borrowed the dining room table for some pictures in a house they are selling. We were table-less!

OSo we made our own and the kids thought it was a grand idea!
After a breakfast of oatmeal (pretty much the only thing in the house), we watched Leapfrog's Letter Factory. I don't care what people say about TV dumbing their kids out. This show (although obnoxious) does teach kids their letters and sounds. Miles knows about half!

Oh, we got our table back too!
(That's my to do list on the table, keeps me moving through the day)!

My children were filthy so we had baths!
I am not sure when dual baths become inappropriate, apparently not yet.

He has the greatest boy hair.

Then we decided to get some fresh air and go for a walk.
If I can get them away from the plants and into the stroller.

We live right off of Minnehaha Parkway which is fantastic for letting them run.
Since we don't have a yard, this is probably the next best thing.

Running down hills...

Playing in trees...

Finding yellow leaves...

Time for lunch!
On the menu today was chicken nuggets and sweet potato fries.
Healthy lunch award?
I think not.

They both napped today. Thanks to the late night last night.
Two hours of quiet is bliss for this mom.
Lacey only naps about every other day now.

After naps we decide to build towers with legos.

Apparently hiding in the lego bag is a good time!

Watching some Veggie Tales while I shower.
An uninterrupted shower is like a mini vacation, and this is the only way I get it!

Then we are eating an early dinner because we are picking daddy up from work.
He rode his bike to work this morning.
We have to return some library books and a DVD on the way.

Mac & Cheese

Picking up daddy is fun! He brought Mario and Luigi dolls, which were perfect because Mario has an "m" on his hat for Miles and Luigi has an "l" on his hat for Lacey.

Miles was freaked out of Mario. He kept throwing in on the floor saying "scary mario" it sounded more like "oreo".

Cute.

and of course dad brings Jamba Juice.

Which they love.
And always pull the straw out and spill it everywhere.

And this is where I stopped taking pictures. I totally forgot after this!

After I picked up mike, he was starving and so we had a coupon for BOGO at Noodles and Company for their new sandwiches. We headed over there. They are SO GOOD.

While we were getting our food, we were invited over to a friends house. They were having a few people over. We cruised down to Burnsville and hung out with some friends and ate pizza (we didn't, they did). We left late and got home around 9:15.

Another late night!

50 Things

2010-08-23T05:42:00.001-07:00

Here are 50 Random things about me. We'll explore them deeper in the coming weeks!

1. I've been married 4 years.
2. I don't like chocolate.
3. I was a gymnast for 12 years and competed all through high school.
4. My first job was at a candy store.
5. I went to private school through 8th grade, and then a public high school.
6. I went to North Central for college because I had a dream about it one night.
7. Found out I was pregnant with Lacey less than 6 months after getting married.
8. I cried in the work bathroom.
9. When she was 7 months old I got pregnant with my son, on purpose.
10. I hate airplanes.
11. I also hate rush hour traffic.
12. Blue is my favorite color. All shades of blue.
13. I wanted to be in architect when I grew up.
14. Still love architecture and hope to build my own house one day.
15. I don't cook.
16. I don't like the heat.
17. I love wearing boots.
18. I also looooove skinny jeans and leggings and I am thrilled they are "in" right now.
19. Favorite place to shop is Macy's (either Downtown or Southdale).
20. The biggest mall in the country is 4 miles from my house and I can't stand it.
21. I want to send my kids to a language immersion school.
22. I never thought I would be a stay at home mom, ever.
23. I am studying to become a public accountant.
24. I've had my hair every length and color.
25. Vowed I'd never have short hair again.
26. I have a photographic memory.
27. I am super organized.
28. Love to clean.
29. I have sadly never been overseas.
30. I am a tad bit too cynical.
31. I don't like the TV, but admittedly use it as a "babysitter" when I need a moment to think.
32. Probably the world's most creatively challenged individual.
33. I can't find dress pants that fit for the life of me.
34. I was born and raised in North Dakota.
35. Both my parents worked growing up, probably why I always have planned on working.
36, I have an auto-immune disorder. I've had it since I was 7.
37. I just turned 27, on the 4th of July.
38. If I wanted to adopt from China I'd only have 3 more years (I am not planning on adopting but I read an article the other day that they changed their age limit to 30, for mothers, and I thought that was really young)!
39. We have never owned a house, but want to own one painfully bad.
40. We want a Goldendoodle.
41. I am a total introvert and love being alone (which never happens with 2 toddlers)!
42. I was sick throughout most of my pregnancies and threw up a lot.
43. I was electively induced both times.
44. Super easy deliveries (8 hours and 3 hours). Told both times I was made to have kids.
45. I am done having kids.
46. I couldn't stand garlic when I became pregnant with Lacey. It's never gone away. I still can't stand it.
47. I drink a lot of coffee, more in the winter when it's cold.
48. We go to River Valley Church in Apple Valley, MN and we absolutely love it there.
49. I am a no excuses type of girl.
50. I loved Babysitter's Club books when I was young. I read #128 of them one summer.