My kids are geniuses. So are Hubs and I. I think it's time I share some of our worldly wisdom with all of you on a daily basis. They might just be quick one-line responses you can use in your everyday to combat stupidity or elicit laughter. Some of it might be great advice you'll want to adhere to. Take it or leave it, these are some of the rules our house lives by.
Things NOT to do ON the J.O.B.
These might seem common sensical (not a word except for today), but they are worth repeating. Maybe you've never found yourself in any of these situations, but you might. Be warned. And armed. With your daily tidbits.
1. Do not be afraid. You need to know a few things about the job you're accepting, even when you are grateful for the opportunity. Realize that your talents are worthy of gratefulness as well, and ask questions. You need to understand the level or pay grade of the job you are accepting and where it fits in the scheme of your department. All companies exercise a pay scale. You may not be hired in as a manager or supervisor, but could very well be salaried on their pay level. Seek to understand the dynamics of your peers, your immediate internal clients, and a little history on the management around you. Knowing this information doesn't mean you necessarily use it as bargaining chips, but it is important to know where you fall should things shift. Knowing is half the battle, as they say.
2. Do not underestimate the power of polite. If you're late to a meeting where others excused your tardiness, it does not hurt to apologize to the facilitator. Give others a head's up on large workloads coming their way. Let your direct reports know where you are, where you will be, and be certain they can find assistance in your absence. Ask questions to offset the demands you make. Send along a notice that you completed a task for someone. Showing polite behavior in the world of fast-paced DO DO DO can go a long way in building a reputation of trust and work ethic beyond comparison.
3. Do not undertake alone what can be done in collaboration. By joining forces to complete weighty tasks, you not only create rapport with your peers but instill teamwork, trust, and friendship. Asking others to take part in something larger than the individual will pay dividends in a world that is becoming less autonomy-driven and more synergized. Group work and cross-trained teammates make for a better, more efficient place of business and allows co-workers to feel secure with their workload.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Monday, September 27, 2010
Monday Mumbles
Monday means Mumbling. Giving you ten random things that are buzzing through the mind and house of Tooje this week.
1. If Hubs uses the "I tore my knee" excuse ONE MORE TIME.....It was over a year ago, you weren't in shape to begin with, and you were never as athletic as me. Get over it.
2. Did I ever mention, however, that when we first met he surprised me? Guys used to use the "oh, let's go running together" come on, thinking I'd never take them up on it. Well, I took Hubs up on it and he was actually game for the challenge. He went running with my girlfriend and I several times, always holding his own. He didn't drop out until we started training for a marathon. He even went ice skating with me!
3. TO finally had another kiddo give him a run for his money on the soccer field this past Saturday. The kid was nearly as quick and was better at dribbling and controlling the ball. Once T finally figured out how to kick it out of bounds if the kid was close to scoring, he gained some confidence back.
4. I just relived my only B grade from high school Saturday night on Facebook. I can't get over it. Not until that teacher knows how strongly I disagree (not past tense, present) with her decision. Yes, it's been 15 years. Leave me alone.
5. We had a meeting with TO's school peeps this morning - principal, counselor, Kindergarten teacher, and Literacy coaching/specialist. Decision news to be continued......
6. I saw an old lady spin her tires in front of a cop when taking off at a stoplight this morning. Totally made my day.
7. I have OJ looking half crazy now adays, talking to his hands. When he gets frustrated at school, he's been prone to scratching. Everyday that I've dropped him off, we coach about what's appropriate and then we "talk to our hands". He says to them, "BE NICE, hands." It worked on Friday. We'll see about today.
8. I'm a sucker for chocolate. Preferably milk. A chick at work is selling them for her kid's school. Tomorrow, I get my chocolate.
9. TO was invited to a couple of birthday parties this Saturday. The second one we attended was a girl from his class who sent invites to the entire class. Apparently it's not the "thing" to do, showing up to parties of kids or parents you don't know. How sad, in my opinion. I thought it'd be a great way to get to know his friends and their parents. 24 kids - 2 showed up. I think that's crappy.
10. I love my husband. Even if he is a butt most times. He's a good guy.
LINKED UP:
Michelle
1. If Hubs uses the "I tore my knee" excuse ONE MORE TIME.....It was over a year ago, you weren't in shape to begin with, and you were never as athletic as me. Get over it.
2. Did I ever mention, however, that when we first met he surprised me? Guys used to use the "oh, let's go running together" come on, thinking I'd never take them up on it. Well, I took Hubs up on it and he was actually game for the challenge. He went running with my girlfriend and I several times, always holding his own. He didn't drop out until we started training for a marathon. He even went ice skating with me!
3. TO finally had another kiddo give him a run for his money on the soccer field this past Saturday. The kid was nearly as quick and was better at dribbling and controlling the ball. Once T finally figured out how to kick it out of bounds if the kid was close to scoring, he gained some confidence back.
4. I just relived my only B grade from high school Saturday night on Facebook. I can't get over it. Not until that teacher knows how strongly I disagree (not past tense, present) with her decision. Yes, it's been 15 years. Leave me alone.
5. We had a meeting with TO's school peeps this morning - principal, counselor, Kindergarten teacher, and Literacy coaching/specialist. Decision news to be continued......
6. I saw an old lady spin her tires in front of a cop when taking off at a stoplight this morning. Totally made my day.
7. I have OJ looking half crazy now adays, talking to his hands. When he gets frustrated at school, he's been prone to scratching. Everyday that I've dropped him off, we coach about what's appropriate and then we "talk to our hands". He says to them, "BE NICE, hands." It worked on Friday. We'll see about today.
8. I'm a sucker for chocolate. Preferably milk. A chick at work is selling them for her kid's school. Tomorrow, I get my chocolate.
9. TO was invited to a couple of birthday parties this Saturday. The second one we attended was a girl from his class who sent invites to the entire class. Apparently it's not the "thing" to do, showing up to parties of kids or parents you don't know. How sad, in my opinion. I thought it'd be a great way to get to know his friends and their parents. 24 kids - 2 showed up. I think that's crappy.
10. I love my husband. Even if he is a butt most times. He's a good guy.
LINKED UP:
Michelle
Friday, September 24, 2010
Funny Faces Friday
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| Love this picture b/c they all have such different looks. Evie is hiding, Till looks annoyed, TO is posing as usual, ReShawn doesn't know what to think, and OJ is being his usual ornery self with a twist of cute. |
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| No actual faces in this photo, but that's what I think makes it funny. |
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| TO at our wedding - 2.5 years old. He was SERIOUS about his dancing back down the "aisle". |
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| One of my favorite wedding photos, even if it is the sister who won't speak to me right now. I still love her! (and she doesn't smoke, but at my wedding she did!!) |
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| And we'll end with a little sweetness. |
Happy Friday, everyone!!
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Link Up Notice
I don't do the fancy link ups that are available, I just look to see if anyone else plays along or tells me so in the comments. If you want to participate and have others come visit you during Monday Mumbles or Funny Faces Friday, let me know beforehand and I'll link your blog to my post. I am not blogging during the day from work, so you'll have to give me fair warning the night before - VIA EMAIL.
toojmama@gmail.com
Link up and have some fun. :)
toojmama@gmail.com
Link up and have some fun. :)
Your Daily Tidbit - 9/23
My kids are geniuses. So are Hubs and I. I think it's time I share some of our worldly wisdom with all of you on a daily basis. They might just be quick one-line responses you can use in your everyday to combat stupidity or elicit laughter. Some of it might be great advice you'll want to adhere to. Take it or leave it, these are some of the rules our house lives by.
Black Mail IS Necessary
Your children will, at some point, turn on you. It might be a mild about-face or something a bit more severe. Whatever way they choose to "be themselves" and "break free" from your grasp, be prepared. How, you might ask? Black mail. Plain and simple.
1. Tidbits from T.O.'s File
2. Tidbits from O.J.'s File
Black Mail IS Necessary
Your children will, at some point, turn on you. It might be a mild about-face or something a bit more severe. Whatever way they choose to "be themselves" and "break free" from your grasp, be prepared. How, you might ask? Black mail. Plain and simple.
1. Tidbits from T.O.'s File
2. Tidbits from O.J.'s File
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Your Daily Tidbit - 9/22
My kids are geniuses. So are Hubs and I. I think it's time I share some of our worldly wisdom with all of you on a daily basis. They might just be quick one-line responses you can use in your everyday to combat stupidity or elicit laughter. Some of it might be great advice you'll want to adhere to. Take it or leave it, these are some of the rules our house lives by.
Learning From Others
So often I catch myself reading you. The things you say sometimes catch in my throat. I nod. Reflections of my life and my experiences flash in my mind. I am reminded how it's been. How it can be. What I've seen and felt and heard. It's easy to get caught up thinking we've been there, done that, felt it, and tried a way. But then someone writes something, something so complicated or simple, it does not matter. It whips us back around and says remember me. I am important. Here are a few snippets of things I've read lately that made me bite my lip and think. Really think.
1. The reality is, our story is exactly as it should be, whether private or public. It is ours alone even if it's also yours. And I don't know how that's possible, it just is. Maybe because we are this family in this moment, and our connection is felt and then savored by only us in so many ways, no one else could possibly fully know or feel it, and that's what makes it private. (Heather of the EO)
2.
3. Mark will ALWAYS be the father of Nathaniel and Audrey, and will always be part of our family, even if that is in an ever evolving way. We pray for Mark daily in his battles, and wait on the Lord to form him into the man that he is called to be. (Gretchen)
4. I'm always in a hurry. I talk fast. I eat fast. I drive fast. I prefer the shortest distance between two points. If I am not moving fast, I feel as if I'm moving backwards. I do not chose the scenic route.
But, there are moments of clarity. Moments, when I am able to see clearly these other changes, that I realize it is not that we have taken two steps back. Rather, God has guided us down the scenic route as we inch forward.
I did not map this route out for us 6 years ago. But God's Grace has shown me that it is beautiful. (Rebecca)
5. I've been practicing being present, fully present, in my day to day, moment to moment activities (this is no small feat!). Fully embracing whatever is happening and NOT making judgment about it (whether it's washing dishes, listening to the kids scream & fuss, feeling the sun on my skin, chatting with a friend, you get the point). This, in one sense, has been a challenge, and, at the same time, in another, it's becoming extremely easy. Just letting go and letting life happen. Truly going with the flow... (Leslie)
Learning From Others
So often I catch myself reading you. The things you say sometimes catch in my throat. I nod. Reflections of my life and my experiences flash in my mind. I am reminded how it's been. How it can be. What I've seen and felt and heard. It's easy to get caught up thinking we've been there, done that, felt it, and tried a way. But then someone writes something, something so complicated or simple, it does not matter. It whips us back around and says remember me. I am important. Here are a few snippets of things I've read lately that made me bite my lip and think. Really think.
1. The reality is, our story is exactly as it should be, whether private or public. It is ours alone even if it's also yours. And I don't know how that's possible, it just is. Maybe because we are this family in this moment, and our connection is felt and then savored by only us in so many ways, no one else could possibly fully know or feel it, and that's what makes it private. (Heather of the EO)
2.
Know my every flaw
And accept me just the same
My pillars of strength
Sisters and brothers
End each other's sentences
Annoying. Funny.
Always family
Never will there be a day
That I don't belong.
4. I'm always in a hurry. I talk fast. I eat fast. I drive fast. I prefer the shortest distance between two points. If I am not moving fast, I feel as if I'm moving backwards. I do not chose the scenic route.
But, there are moments of clarity. Moments, when I am able to see clearly these other changes, that I realize it is not that we have taken two steps back. Rather, God has guided us down the scenic route as we inch forward.
I did not map this route out for us 6 years ago. But God's Grace has shown me that it is beautiful. (Rebecca)
5. I've been practicing being present, fully present, in my day to day, moment to moment activities (this is no small feat!). Fully embracing whatever is happening and NOT making judgment about it (whether it's washing dishes, listening to the kids scream & fuss, feeling the sun on my skin, chatting with a friend, you get the point). This, in one sense, has been a challenge, and, at the same time, in another, it's becoming extremely easy. Just letting go and letting life happen. Truly going with the flow... (Leslie)
**All textural changes have been made by Tooje to highlight words or phrases that really caught my attention.**
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Your Daily Tidbit - 9/21
My kids are geniuses. So are Hubs and I. I think it's time I share some of our worldly wisdom with all of you on a daily basis. They might just be quick one-line responses you can use in your everyday to combat stupidity or elicit laughter. Some of it might be great advice you'll want to adhere to. Take it or leave it, these are some of the rules our house lives by.
Down Time Must Dos
I oftentimes find myself sitting in my rocking chair, right next to my computer, either watching TV or playing solitaire, oftentimes both at the same time. If I removed myself from this favorite spot, what would I do? How much could I get accomplished? What kind of fun could I have? Here are a few suggestions on how to spend your time AWAY from your computer.
1. Drive to your nearby park or elementary school and swing. Swinging relieves so much tension. But if you've been looked at sideways when around little children, I suggest you avoid the school and go to a more neutral, city park. Just in case.
2. Jump on your bike. If you don't have a bicycle, go garage sale shopping and get yourself one. Take a leisurely pedal around the neighborhood or transport the bike to a nearby walking/riding trail. Go slowly, take in the sights, breathe deep. Fresh air is a wonderful thing.
3. Make art with sidewalk chalk. There's nothing quite like getting dirty to make you feel accomplished. What I'd really like to do is challenge any of you to actually buy some chalk, draw a picture and snap a photo of it, and then email it to me. I want to display your Down Time Art. I will if you will.
4. Lastly, I'd like to: Roller skate with Foxy, eat Popsicles with Emily and her gorgeous boy Z, stroll for a coke with Michelle, eat a cupcake with Dorkys, learn a little history with Iggy, learn to surf with April and her beautiful family, watch Tabitha take her fantastic photos all day long, attend a blogger get-together planned by Crystal, have a girl's night with Cindy Lou Who, attend a football game with Rebecca, get the babes together for a play date with Teresha and Marlie, go for a run with chacha, drink a glass of wine with Karen, meet Jewls' bundle of joy, kiss Maritza's beautiful babies, walk my Alma mater's gorgeous campus with Anna, crash a BlogHer party and introduce myself to Heather, and on and and on and on. Nicole and Sandra and Holly and and and.....
I love this blogging world, even if we're getting too busy for it at times. I truly wish/hope I could/can do some/all of these things when the munchkins get a little bigger and less needy of the boob.
Down Time Must Dos
I oftentimes find myself sitting in my rocking chair, right next to my computer, either watching TV or playing solitaire, oftentimes both at the same time. If I removed myself from this favorite spot, what would I do? How much could I get accomplished? What kind of fun could I have? Here are a few suggestions on how to spend your time AWAY from your computer.
1. Drive to your nearby park or elementary school and swing. Swinging relieves so much tension. But if you've been looked at sideways when around little children, I suggest you avoid the school and go to a more neutral, city park. Just in case.
2. Jump on your bike. If you don't have a bicycle, go garage sale shopping and get yourself one. Take a leisurely pedal around the neighborhood or transport the bike to a nearby walking/riding trail. Go slowly, take in the sights, breathe deep. Fresh air is a wonderful thing.
3. Make art with sidewalk chalk. There's nothing quite like getting dirty to make you feel accomplished. What I'd really like to do is challenge any of you to actually buy some chalk, draw a picture and snap a photo of it, and then email it to me. I want to display your Down Time Art. I will if you will.
4. Lastly, I'd like to: Roller skate with Foxy, eat Popsicles with Emily and her gorgeous boy Z, stroll for a coke with Michelle, eat a cupcake with Dorkys, learn a little history with Iggy, learn to surf with April and her beautiful family, watch Tabitha take her fantastic photos all day long, attend a blogger get-together planned by Crystal, have a girl's night with Cindy Lou Who, attend a football game with Rebecca, get the babes together for a play date with Teresha and Marlie, go for a run with chacha, drink a glass of wine with Karen, meet Jewls' bundle of joy, kiss Maritza's beautiful babies, walk my Alma mater's gorgeous campus with Anna, crash a BlogHer party and introduce myself to Heather, and on and and on and on. Nicole and Sandra and Holly and and and.....
I love this blogging world, even if we're getting too busy for it at times. I truly wish/hope I could/can do some/all of these things when the munchkins get a little bigger and less needy of the boob.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Monday Mumbles
Monday, Monday.....who sings that song? They always make me realize that it's not just another day. It's a day for mumbling, incoherent thoughts, and discombobulated jabbering. Join me,won't you? I am back for Mumbles and Funny Faces. We'll see what else gets accomplished.
1. The only tweeting that happens in my house is when we play out the book "Barnyard Dance" by Sandra Boynton. We also chirp, moo, oink, and neigh. Soooo much cooler.
2. Anyone else read Skippyjon Jones? Listening to Hubs read this book cracks me up. The Spanish accent he uses is ridiculous, but hilarious. Holy Frijoles!!!!!
3. Late afternoon / early evening on Saturday, we had a crazy storm hit the area. I left home for Costco (kick ass Saturday night plans, I know) with it just drizzling rain. By the time I was halfway through the seven mile drive, I was being pelted by hail. By the time I got through the store and checked out, a tornado was apparently in the area.
4. The rainbow at the end? When I arrived home, Hubs had cleared my side of the garage so I could pull into it. Mind you, the other side looks like the tornado actually HIT our house.
5. Skippyjon Jones bounced on his bed. He bounced up high and saw his head. He thought he was a cat, but he was NOT that! Holy Frijoles - he's a Chihuahua!
6. Seriously read the book. You'll laugh too.
7. I was lying in bed Sunday morning trying to go back to sleep after feeding Evie and relishing the fact that it was nearly 6am and OJ hadn't come into my room asking for oatmeal yet, when he came in. But he was sweet. Asked for hugs. Gave me kisses. Snuggled. His sweet side made getting out of bed so early much easier.
8. Do you think I am getting lots of spiders in the house lately because I play spider solitaire a lot? I am beginning to wonder.
9. Did I mention I won $3 on Powerball by matching the PB last week? ROCK ON to me. It'll supply my soda needs for the next week.
10. Speaking of Skippyjon Jones bouncing on his bed, OJ was apparently doing something suspicious Sunday evening after he and TO had been put to "sleep". I heard giggling and then I heard a thud and then I heard crying. He's fearless and stupid and cute all rolled into one.
LINKED UP:
Michelle
1. The only tweeting that happens in my house is when we play out the book "Barnyard Dance" by Sandra Boynton. We also chirp, moo, oink, and neigh. Soooo much cooler.
2. Anyone else read Skippyjon Jones? Listening to Hubs read this book cracks me up. The Spanish accent he uses is ridiculous, but hilarious. Holy Frijoles!!!!!
3. Late afternoon / early evening on Saturday, we had a crazy storm hit the area. I left home for Costco (kick ass Saturday night plans, I know) with it just drizzling rain. By the time I was halfway through the seven mile drive, I was being pelted by hail. By the time I got through the store and checked out, a tornado was apparently in the area.
4. The rainbow at the end? When I arrived home, Hubs had cleared my side of the garage so I could pull into it. Mind you, the other side looks like the tornado actually HIT our house.
5. Skippyjon Jones bounced on his bed. He bounced up high and saw his head. He thought he was a cat, but he was NOT that! Holy Frijoles - he's a Chihuahua!
6. Seriously read the book. You'll laugh too.
7. I was lying in bed Sunday morning trying to go back to sleep after feeding Evie and relishing the fact that it was nearly 6am and OJ hadn't come into my room asking for oatmeal yet, when he came in. But he was sweet. Asked for hugs. Gave me kisses. Snuggled. His sweet side made getting out of bed so early much easier.
8. Do you think I am getting lots of spiders in the house lately because I play spider solitaire a lot? I am beginning to wonder.
9. Did I mention I won $3 on Powerball by matching the PB last week? ROCK ON to me. It'll supply my soda needs for the next week.
10. Speaking of Skippyjon Jones bouncing on his bed, OJ was apparently doing something suspicious Sunday evening after he and TO had been put to "sleep". I heard giggling and then I heard a thud and then I heard crying. He's fearless and stupid and cute all rolled into one.
LINKED UP:
Michelle
Friday, September 17, 2010
Funny Faces Friday
If you have some great faces to frame, feel free to play along. I'll link you at the bottom if you let me know.
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| She's got good hair. At least in my opinion. |
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| Which baby is this? OJ! |
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| And then OJ all growed up. |
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| Going back in time to 2008. |
Monday, September 13, 2010
Blogging Break
Followers up.
Readership/commenting down.
Feeling selfish and pouty.
Faithful (but slow at times) commenter.
Not on receiving end. **
Busy working.
Lots of kids, dishes, and laundry.
Will most likely return soon.
**To clarify, I don't just like getting comments. I like the conversations they start, the ability to "meet" new people, and read reactions to my everyday. I like sharing and having you share with me.**
Readership/commenting down.
Feeling selfish and pouty.
Faithful (but slow at times) commenter.
Not on receiving end. **
Busy working.
Lots of kids, dishes, and laundry.
Will most likely return soon.
**To clarify, I don't just like getting comments. I like the conversations they start, the ability to "meet" new people, and read reactions to my everyday. I like sharing and having you share with me.**
Your Daily Tidbit - 9/13
My kids are geniuses. So are Hubs and I. I think it's time I share some of our worldly wisdom with all of you on a daily basis. They might just be quick one-line responses you can use in your everyday to combat stupidity or elicit laughter. Some of it might be great advice you'll want to adhere to. Take it or leave it, these are some of the rules our house lives by.
Adult Indulgences
1. Food
I wholeheartedly believe that feeding your children one thing and eating another is OKAY. I wouldn't do it in FRONT of them, mind you, but once they're in bed? Heck yeah! We have to have SOMEthing that is "for parents only". And for me? While nursing? That's indulging in food that I wouldn't want my kids eating (as often as I like to do). Burger King, hot fudge sundaes, an entire pan of brownies, bag of chips. It's all game.
2. Television
I watch a lot more television than I allow the kids to view. And I don't feel one ounce bad about it. I want them developing healthy, active habits, being creative and playing with all the toys they've received over the years, and generally enjoying one another. Staring mutely at the TV, mouths gaped open and nearly wetting themselves because they can't stand to walk away from it is not ideal, in my book. I, on the other hand, can get fat and lazy if I wanna. I paid my dues.
3. Silliness
Isn't it great to be grown and not worry if you look silly? Kids spend so much time worrying that their actions might place them on the wrong side of "cool" with their friends or even with those who aren't their friends. As an adult and especially a parent, I indulge in singing loudly in the car, dancing in the home, and playing on the equipment at the park. Ideally the kids will take my cue and be silly too, and enjoy every moment that comes at them. If not, I'll draw attention to them anyhow but being THAT mom. I said it. I'll be her. Don't test me.
Adult Indulgences
1. Food
I wholeheartedly believe that feeding your children one thing and eating another is OKAY. I wouldn't do it in FRONT of them, mind you, but once they're in bed? Heck yeah! We have to have SOMEthing that is "for parents only". And for me? While nursing? That's indulging in food that I wouldn't want my kids eating (as often as I like to do). Burger King, hot fudge sundaes, an entire pan of brownies, bag of chips. It's all game.
2. Television
I watch a lot more television than I allow the kids to view. And I don't feel one ounce bad about it. I want them developing healthy, active habits, being creative and playing with all the toys they've received over the years, and generally enjoying one another. Staring mutely at the TV, mouths gaped open and nearly wetting themselves because they can't stand to walk away from it is not ideal, in my book. I, on the other hand, can get fat and lazy if I wanna. I paid my dues.
3. Silliness
Isn't it great to be grown and not worry if you look silly? Kids spend so much time worrying that their actions might place them on the wrong side of "cool" with their friends or even with those who aren't their friends. As an adult and especially a parent, I indulge in singing loudly in the car, dancing in the home, and playing on the equipment at the park. Ideally the kids will take my cue and be silly too, and enjoy every moment that comes at them. If not, I'll draw attention to them anyhow but being THAT mom. I said it. I'll be her. Don't test me.
Monday Mumbles
Another gloomy glorious Monday rolls around and we're here to kick it off with some Mumbling. Serious mumbling, people. Do you feel the need to get a few things off your chest share your beautiful life in nuggets? Feel free to link up.
1. With my new "let's be prepared" attitude, Sunday nights have become exhausting. I used to love them, you know. Sunday night football started last night and what did I do? For TWO HOURS? Put away laundry, checked the weather for the week, found 5 full outfits for TO, OJ, and EJ, packed up the day-to-day tote with sheets and blankies for OJ and EJ, diapers for EJ, TO's lunch for today, a few dishes, breastfed EJ, gave baths, and put three kids to bed.
2. And for the record, Hubs, I don't give a SHIT if the modem is dusty. Yes, he had the nerve to point it out while sitting on his bum. Just to mess with me.
3. We had a playdate Sunday morning. One of the T-ball moms and I discussed get-togethers at the end of the season. We never did it while I was on maternity leave, but we did manage to get our sons signed up for the same soccer team. She called Sunday morning and invited us to a park. It was a gorgeous day, and a wonderful way to make new friends and end our weekend.
4. Speaking of soccer, TO had six goals this week. He was on FIRE.
5. To be fair, he was bribed. He did not like our chicken in spaghetti Friday night. He prefers meatballs. Hubs told him that if he scored a goal, just ONE goal, he'd personally make him some meatballs for his spaghetti. Because he blew up the field for six goals, he's expecting six meatballs.
6. TO had a birthday party to attend after soccer Saturday for the son of a friend/old co-worker of mine. My dad was kind enough to watch OJ and EJ for me at our house since Hubs was at work all day. These kids sure love their Grandpa and Grandma.
7. My feet have been killing me. I wore tennies or flip flops for 12 fulls weeks and now I'm back in my heels. I like heels, I like how they look with work clothes. I do NOT like, however, breaking my feet in again.
8. I hope in my next home (if I ever get the chance to escape where I am, that is) I have a room with an entire room of built in bookshelves. That would be heaven.
9. I'm generally the positive, things will be okay, person. But lately that's not the case and I'm not sure why. I have been panicking and worrying and stressing. Hubs has been trying to "fix" my outlook and attitude but I've remained stubborn. I know, shocking. But I'm trying.
10. Maybe I should let him know that he IS making me feel better, albeit slowly. Maybe? Eh. I'm not ready to admit defeat just yet. Telling him that he's been more "right" lately would be like pulling my toes off one by one.
1. With my new "let's be prepared" attitude, Sunday nights have become exhausting. I used to love them, you know. Sunday night football started last night and what did I do? For TWO HOURS? Put away laundry, checked the weather for the week, found 5 full outfits for TO, OJ, and EJ, packed up the day-to-day tote with sheets and blankies for OJ and EJ, diapers for EJ, TO's lunch for today, a few dishes, breastfed EJ, gave baths, and put three kids to bed.
2. And for the record, Hubs, I don't give a SHIT if the modem is dusty. Yes, he had the nerve to point it out while sitting on his bum. Just to mess with me.
3. We had a playdate Sunday morning. One of the T-ball moms and I discussed get-togethers at the end of the season. We never did it while I was on maternity leave, but we did manage to get our sons signed up for the same soccer team. She called Sunday morning and invited us to a park. It was a gorgeous day, and a wonderful way to make new friends and end our weekend.
4. Speaking of soccer, TO had six goals this week. He was on FIRE.
5. To be fair, he was bribed. He did not like our chicken in spaghetti Friday night. He prefers meatballs. Hubs told him that if he scored a goal, just ONE goal, he'd personally make him some meatballs for his spaghetti. Because he blew up the field for six goals, he's expecting six meatballs.
6. TO had a birthday party to attend after soccer Saturday for the son of a friend/old co-worker of mine. My dad was kind enough to watch OJ and EJ for me at our house since Hubs was at work all day. These kids sure love their Grandpa and Grandma.
7. My feet have been killing me. I wore tennies or flip flops for 12 fulls weeks and now I'm back in my heels. I like heels, I like how they look with work clothes. I do NOT like, however, breaking my feet in again.
8. I hope in my next home (if I ever get the chance to escape where I am, that is) I have a room with an entire room of built in bookshelves. That would be heaven.
9. I'm generally the positive, things will be okay, person. But lately that's not the case and I'm not sure why. I have been panicking and worrying and stressing. Hubs has been trying to "fix" my outlook and attitude but I've remained stubborn. I know, shocking. But I'm trying.
10. Maybe I should let him know that he IS making me feel better, albeit slowly. Maybe? Eh. I'm not ready to admit defeat just yet. Telling him that he's been more "right" lately would be like pulling my toes off one by one.
Friday, September 10, 2010
Funny Faces Friday
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| funnel cake fun |
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| Girlfriends meeting for the first time - one day apart in age. |
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| He would sleep in this swing if we let him. |
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| I was actually trying to take a "nice" photo and Hubs told everyone else to mess it up. |
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| itchy nose? waking up? I can't remember. |
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Your Daily Tidbit - 9/9
My kids are geniuses. So are Hubs and I. I think it's time I share some of our worldly wisdom with all of you on a daily basis. They might just be quick one-line responses you can use in your everyday to combat stupidity or elicit laughter. Some of it might be great advice you'll want to adhere to. Take it or leave it, these are some of the rules our house lives by.
There's Never Enough Time!
I feel like Jessie (Jessy? Jesse? Jessi?) from Saved By The Bell. Going back to work has really thrown a wrench in my ability to keep up with blog reading. I think I might have to set aside Saturday evenings and dedicate it to catching up. I just have too many dishes, laundry, and children to clean in the evenings, at the end of which I am exhausted. Here are a few ideas to save you some time.
1. Don't do the dishes. Use paper plates. I know, I know, it's no "green", but really....it saves time. I'll go "green" when I have some $green$.
2. Bathe together. Take this however you want. I see no point, though, in allowing children to bathe separately if they all fit in the tub at once. So what if they can't have THE favorite toy because they have to share? They'll get over it, and it's just one tub of water, one time bent over scrubbing heads, one time kneeling to lotion them up. The naked weenie dancing might last a few minutes longer, but hey, gotta give them something in return.
3. Carry the little legged people from room to room. They might want to be independent, but it's just easier. And less time consuming to wait for them to meander over.
4. Prep. Prep prep prep. The diaper opened and wipes peeled before changing. The clothes opened and zippers aimed before dressing. The laundry sorted before washing.
5. Don't log into Facebook, email, Blogger, or YouTube before you accomplish at least three chores in the evening time. You'll be amazed at what you can accomplish.
There's Never Enough Time!
I feel like Jessie (Jessy? Jesse? Jessi?) from Saved By The Bell. Going back to work has really thrown a wrench in my ability to keep up with blog reading. I think I might have to set aside Saturday evenings and dedicate it to catching up. I just have too many dishes, laundry, and children to clean in the evenings, at the end of which I am exhausted. Here are a few ideas to save you some time.
1. Don't do the dishes. Use paper plates. I know, I know, it's no "green", but really....it saves time. I'll go "green" when I have some $green$.
2. Bathe together. Take this however you want. I see no point, though, in allowing children to bathe separately if they all fit in the tub at once. So what if they can't have THE favorite toy because they have to share? They'll get over it, and it's just one tub of water, one time bent over scrubbing heads, one time kneeling to lotion them up. The naked weenie dancing might last a few minutes longer, but hey, gotta give them something in return.
3. Carry the little legged people from room to room. They might want to be independent, but it's just easier. And less time consuming to wait for them to meander over.
4. Prep. Prep prep prep. The diaper opened and wipes peeled before changing. The clothes opened and zippers aimed before dressing. The laundry sorted before washing.
5. Don't log into Facebook, email, Blogger, or YouTube before you accomplish at least three chores in the evening time. You'll be amazed at what you can accomplish.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Your Daily Tidbit - 9/8
My kids are geniuses. So are Hubs and I. I think it's time I share some of our worldly wisdom with all of you on a daily basis. They might just be quick one-line responses you can use in your everyday to combat stupidity or elicit laughter. Some of it might be great advice you'll want to adhere to. Take it or leave it, these are some of the rules our house lives by.
Simple Pleasures
(Fun doesn't always have to cost you a lot.)
Need some simple ways to enjoy a long weekend? Here are a few ways the Tooje family kept entertained, on a budget, this past holiday weekend.
Simple Pleasures
(Fun doesn't always have to cost you a lot.)
Need some simple ways to enjoy a long weekend? Here are a few ways the Tooje family kept entertained, on a budget, this past holiday weekend.
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| #1. Chocolate croissants. Hubs knows I love them. I know I love them. Whenever we visit my college town, he sneaks out and gets them for me. What do you sneak out for, when given a moment to indulge? |
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| #2. Eat turkey. Preferably with your hands. Out of a lawn chair. |
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| #3. Take a daytime snooze. With Grandma. |
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| #4a. Take some time out for good old fashioned swinging. |
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| #4b. Swinging with family makes it even better. |
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| #5. Flag football. All you need is a yard, some makeshift pull flags, and a playbook. |
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| #6. Dance. With your Daddy. |
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| #7. After you play, you might want to attend a game and watch. What better way to do that than with your cousin, whom you met for the very first time that weekend? Fast buds. |
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| #8. Or maybe you just go relax at your family's home, spending time with four generations. |
Friday, September 3, 2010
Funny Faces Friday
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| Baby #1 might wanna get grown, but will still play with us at home |
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| Baby #2 with his new friend from down the street |
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| Baby #3 - oh the sun's so bright! |
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| Baby #4 - one hot mama |
Your Daily Tidbit - 9/3
My kids are geniuses. So are Hubs and I. I think it's time I share some of our worldly wisdom with all of you on a daily basis. They might just be quick one-line responses you can use in your everyday to combat stupidity or elicit laughter. Some of it might be great advice you'll want to adhere to. Take it or leave it, these are some of the rules our house lives by.
Interview Tips
(that may or may not get you the job)
1. Pass gas before entering the building. Once inside, squeeze your cheeks as tightly as possible to avoid letting out the high-pitched squeaks, the reverberating flubs, and the silent "we know you did it" killers.
2. Always get there early enough to visit the restroom. You'll not only want to relieve your bladder, but you can check your hair for windblown tresses, pepper in your teeth, and danglers in your nostrils. It wouldn't hurt to run a lint brush over your derriere either, since your car can sometimes stick little fuzzies to your backside.
3. Play into the interviewer's interests. I once interviewed during football season and the interviewer excused the crockpot in the room. He mentioned they were celebrating the game taking place later that evening and that he was a diehard fan. I casually mentioned how this job wouldn't work out, then, because I happened to be a fan of their most hated rival. It eased the formality of the interview, we laughed, and began with smiles rather than nervous chatter.
4. If you tend to sweat during moments of nervousness or anxiety, as I do, remember to discretely slide your palm on your pants or skirt before shaking hands. And when you DO shake, please do it with a firm grasp. No one likes a limp noodle. In an interview or in bed. Only covered in pasta sauce, please.
Interview Tips
(that may or may not get you the job)
1. Pass gas before entering the building. Once inside, squeeze your cheeks as tightly as possible to avoid letting out the high-pitched squeaks, the reverberating flubs, and the silent "we know you did it" killers.
2. Always get there early enough to visit the restroom. You'll not only want to relieve your bladder, but you can check your hair for windblown tresses, pepper in your teeth, and danglers in your nostrils. It wouldn't hurt to run a lint brush over your derriere either, since your car can sometimes stick little fuzzies to your backside.
3. Play into the interviewer's interests. I once interviewed during football season and the interviewer excused the crockpot in the room. He mentioned they were celebrating the game taking place later that evening and that he was a diehard fan. I casually mentioned how this job wouldn't work out, then, because I happened to be a fan of their most hated rival. It eased the formality of the interview, we laughed, and began with smiles rather than nervous chatter.
4. If you tend to sweat during moments of nervousness or anxiety, as I do, remember to discretely slide your palm on your pants or skirt before shaking hands. And when you DO shake, please do it with a firm grasp. No one likes a limp noodle. In an interview or in bed. Only covered in pasta sauce, please.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Your Daily Tidbit - 9/2
My kids are geniuses. So are Hubs and I. I think it's time I share some of our worldly wisdom with all of you on a daily basis. They might just be quick one-line responses you can use in your everyday to combat stupidity or elicit laughter. Some of it might be great advice you'll want to adhere to. Take it or leave it, these are some of the rules our house lives by.
Clothing Optional - Or Just Options
1. Do not wear plaid with stripes. Till, stop bringing back the 80s. You are blinding us.
2. Streaking is not funny. No matter how much YOU laugh about it. TO, you are six. We do not need to see that weenie anymore.
3. Gym shorts, black socks, and brown loafers are not meant to be worn together. With that collared shirt, it completes the look of pure insanity. People will think you don't have a wife, or at the very least, one with a sense of anything apparel. Hubs, you look ridiculous.
4. As cute as turtles are, they shouldn't be worn everyday. OJ, I simply do not want to wash the turtle shirt everyday. Can you please choose something else? And no, you cannot wear Mickey Mouse again. You have more than two shirts.
5. On a more serious note, every Sunday we lay out five outfits for the week. It makes getting dressed in the mornings fairly stress-free and quick. I never stressed much over the kids' clothes anyhow, but this makes it even faster, ensuring I have all outfits for the week. It also keeps me on task with laundry and Till is forced to check and see if he's got enough clothing for the week. Now if I can just get Hubs on board with this plan, it'd be perfect.
Clothing Optional - Or Just Options
1. Do not wear plaid with stripes. Till, stop bringing back the 80s. You are blinding us.
2. Streaking is not funny. No matter how much YOU laugh about it. TO, you are six. We do not need to see that weenie anymore.
3. Gym shorts, black socks, and brown loafers are not meant to be worn together. With that collared shirt, it completes the look of pure insanity. People will think you don't have a wife, or at the very least, one with a sense of anything apparel. Hubs, you look ridiculous.
4. As cute as turtles are, they shouldn't be worn everyday. OJ, I simply do not want to wash the turtle shirt everyday. Can you please choose something else? And no, you cannot wear Mickey Mouse again. You have more than two shirts.
5. On a more serious note, every Sunday we lay out five outfits for the week. It makes getting dressed in the mornings fairly stress-free and quick. I never stressed much over the kids' clothes anyhow, but this makes it even faster, ensuring I have all outfits for the week. It also keeps me on task with laundry and Till is forced to check and see if he's got enough clothing for the week. Now if I can just get Hubs on board with this plan, it'd be perfect.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Your Daily Tidbit - 9/1
My kids are geniuses. So are Hubs and I. I think it's time I share some of our worldly wisdom with all of you on a daily basis. They might just be quick one-line responses you can use in your everyday to combat stupidity or elicit laughter. Some of it might be great advice you'll want to adhere to. Take it or leave it, these are some of the rules our house lives by.
Depression Eating
Do not do the following all in one day:
-cry and cry and cry
-eat a bagel with strawberry cream cheese
-eat a chocolate chip coffee cake
-cry once more
-eat movie theater popcorn
-drink large movie theater coke
-eat two mall pretzels
-cry again
-eat chicken nuggets and macaroni
-eat hot fudge sundae
Depression Eating
Do not do the following all in one day:
-cry and cry and cry
-eat a bagel with strawberry cream cheese
-eat a chocolate chip coffee cake
-cry once more
-eat movie theater popcorn
-drink large movie theater coke
-eat two mall pretzels
-cry again
-eat chicken nuggets and macaroni
-eat hot fudge sundae
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