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Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Wordless Wednesday - Kilauea Lighthouse

Kilauea Lighthouse is the northern most point of the main Hawaiian Islands.
My photo does not capture a fraction of the beauty.


Monday, October 25, 2010

Careful what you ask for

Wee Man didn't start talking until he was about three and a half years old. Does speech therapy twice a week to help his tongue learn how to move and make the correct sounds. They say he is doing wonderful and hope that soon he will be down to once a week. yeah!

I kept wishing he would start talking since he was passing milestones in other areas but he didn't. My mom and father-in-law told me that once he started talking I would be wishing for silence. BAH what do they know......

A LOT.....

Heavens... That boy will talk about anything and everything... Sometimes we understand and sometimes we don't.... There are times when I dream of silence for just a few minutes.... However, then I would miss moments like this one....

"MOM!!!.... My butt just wiggled... I think I need to go poop..." Wee Man states and heads for the bathroom.

Brings a smile to my face.... That's my boy.....

Monday, October 18, 2010

The one certainty

(A short vent......)

There is one thing in life that will always be certain.

Death....

No matter who you are, what you believe, how you live, or what age you are; death will be there.

A few of you know how hard it has been since I lost the baby in July. Sorrow surrounded me and I couldn't find the strength to post without whimpering so I didn't.

Along came August and the discovery of another possible medical issue with Lil Kiwi. (next week we go for more tests)

September started with the death of Great Grandpa Shenanigans... The heavens gained a most lovely and pure soul while the earth wept of such a loss. I have to admit that my will was faltering by that time and as such I was with drawing into myself.

This weekend my beloved Bubba (black dog) became suddenly ill and then passed away. They don't understand why it happened completely since nothing seemed to point to anything. All I know is my heart and the last of my will is breaking.

Yet, here I am... Wanting nothing more than to crawl into bed and sleep so that I do not have to face the world; but instead I'm playing with the kids and facing the world. All because there is nothing I can do to change what has happened. Death will come for us all....
People do not die for us immediately, but remain bathed in a sort of aura of life which bears no relation to true immortality but through which they continue to occupy our thoughts in the same way as when they were alive. It is as though they were traveling abroad. ~Marcel Proust

Saturday, October 2, 2010

It's time to have THE TALK

Yep.... someone in this household has been very naughty...

It seems that it's time to have "the talk"...

Four years... four years you have lived in this household...

*deep breath
So why... Why have you been so naughty this month?  Haven't I told you the importance of being "safe" and using the protection I give you!!

Do you know how embarrassed I was last week when I had to call a professional to ask about your problem.

*shakes head back and forth
No no no.... it doesn't matter if he is a friend it was still horrible to ask for help....

It has taken a whole month to get you free of your viruses...

*shudders
How could you be so careless.... so naughty...

yes... my computer has finally gotten an "STV" (socially transmitted virus).... three years clean except for three small malwares and now a whole month of complete nastiness...

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Brain Mush and Peter Pan

Ever had those morning where you just seem to always be a step or two behind and your brain just doesn't want to work with you. (raises hand)

I think my brain has now officially become mush.... This has been a rough summer for the Shenanigans household ;thus the lack of posting. However, the cause of my brain mush is Lil Kiwi and her new obsession love of the movie Peter Pan....

In the beginning it was cute when she asked to watch it a second time and then acted out a few scenes. Wee Man likes to watch different things so I never understood those parents that said "we watch that movie at least 10 times a day" ...... Now I understand...

As soon as the movie ends Lil Kiwi is begging me to play it again. In fact, the last few days, if the TV was on so was Peter Pan.... I have seen it so much that I'm starting to pick it apart and while it looks all cute on the surface Peter Pan is one disturbed young man.

Agree... Disagree.... What other classic movie gets you thinking?

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

WW - Everything happens for a reason

Where to start.... I had a secret that I was going to share with everyone but sometimes life has a way of taking a different path.

I'll start with the fact that for the whole month of July I have been living on the couch; doctors orders. The reason..... I was very sick and had started to bleed; which isn't a good thing when you are pregnant. SURPRISE! Yep that was the secret that I was hoping to share. Don't celebrate yet.

Remember that whole life not always going as planned. Last week during my ultrasound we discovered that the pregnancy was nonviable. It was devastating but I didn't have time to do any crying because the next day I was running around getting everything ready for surgery. Only two days after finding out there was no longer a baby; I was at the hospital getting a D&C.

Now I'm sitting here... numb... but feeling so much better than I have the whole month. It appears that what we thought was the horrid morning sickness I normally get was actually my body trying to fight what was no longer part of me.

Today I'm going to sit on the couch and see what everyone has been up to for the first time in over a month. OH and thank you to all of you that sent emails. I am so sorry I didn't reply but this is honestly the first I have been on the computer for any length of time. So much to catch up on.

Friday, July 9, 2010

Back to the daily grind

What a trip!

I'm still trying to get the kids back into their normal routine but it's not working out so well. Thank goodness it is summer and that means we have time to get a new routine started.

Will post photos after I get them on the computer. I haven't been on the computer since we got back last week because I have been feeling quite ill. The couch and I are best of friends right now but I'm sick of sitting/laying around on it.

Speaking of being sick.... The one thing we have tried to prevent with Lil Kiwi finally happened. She got an UTI the last few days of the trip; which made the flight home soooo much fun. While her surgery did fix most of the problem; her getting an UTI is not something we can take lightly. As soon as we landed I was on the phone calling our insurance to approve an emergency doctor visit.

We were at the clinic until they closed that evening at 10. Started her on meds and then a few days later had to change to stronger meds because the infection was resistant. That in itself was an issue since Lil Kiwi can not take any medicine with penicillin. The good news is that it seems to be working and hopefully the next test will show her to be fine.

Wee Man is thrilled to be home and was super excited to see "moving to1st grade" on his report card. When did he get so big!?! Plan on starting a journal for him to write in everyday to practice. He reads everything now and out loud to boot...

Okay... Think this is about all I have the energy to write for now. Still have a few reviews and giveaways I need to write and post this week or next. Will also be trying to visit everyone and see what you have been up too.

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Wee Updates

Just under a week left to visit with my family. The kids are loving seeing everyone and warming up to people fairly quickly. Wee Man is handling it much better than Lil Kiwi but she is doing a wonderful job.
She is taking to some family members more than others but for the most part being friendly to everyone. In fact, this evening she was sitting on the couch coloring with her Poppy. (all together now... AWWW)

I am also remembering what I loved about this state and what I loathe.... My parents still laugh at me when I call for "HELP" when I see a (gulp) cockroach. gross.... yuck.... ewww

They think it odd for me to be scared of them after all the weird things I have done. It's simple.... They FLY, can live without their head for two weeks, FLY, will be the last things on Earth to survive everything, and hmmm yeah they fly...

One of the problems I already see about getting back home is getting the kids back on a normal schedule. I'm already trying but Lil Kiwi is fighting it. (sigh)

Any advice?..... Tips..... Tricks.....

Saturday, June 12, 2010

Gone for two weeks

Yep... Part of the Shenanigans household will be gone and visiting family. I am not sure how often I will be able to get to a computer while gone; so doubt I will be posting.

Which means all reviews, giveaways, and general rambling will continue as soon as we get back. There is one giveaway going on for a $40 gift certificate to CSN that ends on June 18th so be sure to enter.

Nothing else to say other than.... I finally get to see my family!!!! Can not express how excited I am to see them after all these years...

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Long over due

Okay so you know that soon we will be moving basically cross country via vehicle with the kids. However, this weekend I will be flying with both of them by myself. Help me because I'm a nervous wreck!

I'm so excited and yet nervous at the same time... This will be the first time in over four years that I will get to see my brother and father. The last time was before we moved here and it's been forever it seems. What I'm nervous about is the long plane trip with two kids and then all the "things" we will need.
  • car seat/booster for Wee Man
  • place for Lil Kiwi to sleep (still in crib at this point)
  • me being able to survive the plane trip
  • etc....
At least I will have Lil Kiwi in her car seat so that isn't a problem. In fact, I am using the same gogo Kidz Travelmate that I used when Wee Man and I flew many years ago. If you fly with a young child that will be in their car seat you need to get your hands on this item because honestly it will save you time and gray hairs. After the trip I will have to post photos of Lil Kiwi in her car seat turned stroller. Lifesaver I am telling you.

Now I just need to get things in order since DH will also be leaving the house but not flying with us. Trying to think of everything the house sitter will need to know about the dogs. Yes... Yes we do have someone coming to stay with the dogs (not really to watch the house)... Spoiled pooches....

Okay, I am off to make a packing list.... Great now I'm worried about handling two kids AND luggage...

Saturday, June 5, 2010

Cupcakes, Treats, and Birthdays oh my

With everything going on we decided to celebrate Wee Man's birthday tomorrow instead of on his actual birthday. What started off as just a few people at Chuck E Cheese has turned into a full on neighborhood party. I just finished with the grab bags and now have to decided what to tackle next...

The coolers and mini fridge are full of drinks for young to adult. Hotdogs are being cooked tomorrow at the party. That leaves me with two batches of rice krispies treats to make and about 4-5 dozen cupcakes to make and frost. Anyone want to help?

*sigh*

Guess I'm off to tackle the cupcakes. Oh and do not tell any of the party goers but I'm using boxed mixes! The horror I know..... but..... I just can not deal with making that many from scratch right now. Although there are a few young ones coming so I'm tempted to make applesauce cupcakes for them. (shrug) we shall see....

Now if it will just not rain tomorrow....

OH and I need tips for decorating the cupcakes... I just slap on the frosting and make them pretty but DH brought home some fancy application tipped bottle of frosting thingy...mmm yeah HELP ME!

Friday, June 4, 2010

CSN.com Giftcard Giveaway

So..... Have you looked at the CSN.com website yet? From bedroom furniture and barstools to lighting and toys, CSN has 200+ e-boutiques and over 1 million items to help you find what you're looking for, fast!There is bound to be something that caught your interest in one of the over 200 stores.

I already showed you some of the solar lighting I'm thinking about getting when we finally get to the new place. Secretly, I love the Casablanca ceiling fan and can only dream of having a house castle to put it in.
 Here's your chance to try CSN.com and get the item you have your eye on.

Prize:
A Gift certificate for $40 to any of the CSN.com stores

To Enter: Mandatory Entry (one time only): Leave a comment telling me what you plan on getting from CSN.com... If this rule is not followed your entry will be deleted or removed from consideration.

Extra Entries (leave a separate comment for each one) :
This giveaway will end on Friday June 18 at midnight EST...

The Winner will be emailed on Saturday June 19... So, please make sure your blogger profile has your current email address OR leave a valid email in your posted comment. (ie. weeshenanigans (at) gmail (dot) com) The winner will have 24 hours to reply or new winner will be drawn.

Please note that Sponsor is responsible for prize fulfillment.

Good Luck to everyone

*Disclosure... Please Click Here to go to my disclosure policy*

Monday, May 31, 2010

Memorial Day... a true day of THANKS

While they are still too young to grasp the full magnitude of it all; this weekend we took the kids out for a little history. Today is very important since both sides of the Shenanigan families have members that have served in the Armed Forces.

THANK YOU!
to all that have served.

Sunday, May 30, 2010

Upcoming CSN giveaway

Some of you might remember my CSN.com review a few months back. Well, they asked me if I was interested in doing another review or giveaway so of course I said giveaway. One of my readers deserves a chance to check CSN.com out for themselves.
With the move date quickly approaching I have been looking at houses to rent just in case we can't get on-base housing. A lot of them have long walkways leading up to the house but no lights for night time. So, I have already begun looking for Eco Friendly Solar Lighting.
Since they are solar I don't have to worry whether or not we remembered to turn on the lights before we left, cords to trip over, and we can move them around with ease. I like the look of simple lights but some of these statue lights are adorable. For the backyard I think some tiki style solar lighting would be perfect.

So, keep your eyes open for the CSN.com giveaway in the next few days....

Thursday, May 27, 2010

Winner of Postcards

Random.org picked comment #50 as the Lucky Winner....

Congratulations to Gale...

The winner has been emailed and has 24 hours to reply.
Thank you to Uprinting.com for another wonderful giveaway.

Sunday, May 23, 2010

Murphy's Law Reigns Supreme

Yesterday... Oh how I wish I could forget you.... Here is proof that some days it's best not to bake even if you were really really reallly craving something. *will post recipe at a later date*

I should have known better since the past few days my brain has not been cooperating with me. Yet, when the sudden craving for Popovers came to mind I set about finding the ingredients...

Being a simple recipe I had everything and even decided to try making them with coconut flour (figured they would taste sooo good).
Two stirs and I knew something was wrong. It wasn't batter but dough! So, I added some extra milk to thin it out and put them in the oven. This is what came out....

Hmm yeah... flat... dense... Bollocks! Not one to give up I went back to the normal ingredients just in case the coconut flour was to blame.

Take two...
Nice fluffy... light... airy....

Just look how much better they turned out compared to the first ones...

I was sooo happy until I opened one up and found the inside RAW! Seriously?! I rarely have baking issues and never back to back... We are having nasty weather so not sure if that was partly to blame but BAH...

First, thing this morning...

"Mom..... can you make pancakes?" Wee Man begs in the hall way.

"Hey Lil Kiwi, do you want pancakes this morning?" DH asks and she nods yes.

They have the nerve to ask me to bake not 24 hours after the Great Popover Fiasco.... they must be crazy...

Anyone else brave enough to post or comment about their baking/cooking disaster?

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Mostly Wordless Wednesday - Taste the Rainbow

It's hard being a dog in the Shenanigans Household...
I mean just look at poor Black Dog...

Which is why we were all surprised by this innocent looking face...
Let me set the scene...

It was late afternoon and the kids were coloring nicely. A friend stopped by so we all stepped outside for a few minutes to chat and upon returning we discovered all the crayons missing. My first thought was someone had dumped them out and didn't pick them up. Soon, however, we realized that it had to be one of the dogs. The proof was the bits of crayon in Fawn Dog's teeth...

I can now honestly say that my dog poops rainbows...

Saturday, May 15, 2010

Uprinting Postcards Giveaway

Uprinting.com has been providing top quality products for over 25 years to small and medium size businesses. They are also committed to protecting the environment by using low-VOC soy and vegetable based inks, non-toxic water-based AQ coating options, and they recycle. I like finding companies that try to improve their carbon footprint on the environment and Uprinting is one. This is part of the reason I continue to use them for my printing services and offer giveaways to my readers.

This month we are focusing on their color postcard printing. You know what I love about postcards... How many different uses they have and their simplicity. You can use them as recipe cards, thank you cards, invitations, promoting your business, for entering sweepstakes, or as actual postcards! Just think how nice it would be to include a personalized recipe card with the your famous dish everyone asks you to make.

Getting started with your postcard is easy. Just upload your design and then wait for it to show up a few days later in the mail. Not sure how to design your postcard? No problem because they have some design layouts to help get you started. Easy peasy...

Prize:
100 Postcard (4x6")
14pt Cardstock Gloss(4/4)
Specifications: 3 Business Days Turnaround
Shipping: FREE UPS Ground Shipping
Eligibility: Must be 18 years and older. Limited to US Residents only

To Enter: Mandatory Entry (one time only): Leave a comment telling me how you plan on using the postcards... If this rule is not followed your entry will be deleted or removed from consideration.

Extra Entries (leave a separate comment for each one) :
 This giveaway will end on Wednesday May 26 at midnight EST...

The Winner will be emailed on Thursday May 27... So, please make sure your blogger profile has your current email address OR leave a valid email in your posted comment. (ie. weeshenanigans (at) gmail (dot) com) The winner will have 24 hours to reply or new winner will be drawn.

Please note that Sponsor is responsible for prize fulfillment.

Good Luck to everyone
*Disclosure... Please Click Here to go to my disclosure policy*

Friday, May 14, 2010

Roasted Goodness

What happens when you have graham crackers.... chocolate... and roasted marshmallows?
Normally, it would be a sticky gooey mess of s'mores, yet somehow the marshmallows never made it past the stick...

Can't blame them... Just look at that almost perfectly roasted marshmallow... YUM!
The only problem now is they want us to do this everynight.. *laughing*

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

Wordless Wednesday - A small speck

"A person's a person, no matter how small"... Horton Hears a Who!

Sunday, May 9, 2010

The Sweetest Gift

Happy Mother's Day

I do not normally get gifts from DH and the kids so when a box was dropped off at the house it was very special... Inside it was.....
a dozen hand dipped large strawberries from Shari's Berries.... They are yummmmy... You can tell because there is already one missing from the box. *licks fingers*

However, that was not the best gift that I received for Mother's Day....

Wee Man made a card and gift for me while at school. He was so excited but was able to keep it a secret right until I was about to open it... *laughing*

"This little flower is special you see.
 Because it was made from a part of me.
 My painted thumb made each flower part
 to show I love you with all my heart!
 Happy Mother's Day!"

The inside of the card was so precious it made me cry and laugh at the same time. Yet, it was the handmade "towel" that stole my heart. Each flower is made from his fingerprints just like the one on the card. Now I need to figure out how to frame it....


I hope everyone has a wonderful Mother's Day.
and of course....
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY to my Mom, Nonnie and MIL!

Did anyone else get a wonderful surprise this Mother's Day?

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

Wordless Wednesday - Stopping to smell

During one of the cleaning breaks, the kids and I ran around the yard and I couldn't help but take some flower photos.... Sorry they look all crazy in the layout but blogger is refusing to play nice tonight...

*sniffle* the base yard crew took a weed-eater to my nice clovers now this photo is all I have..

notice anything special in this bunch of clovers?

Tuesday, May 4, 2010

To move or not to move

Currently, working on cleaning out the computer/dining room; which is harder than it sounds. So much paperwork to go through and decide what to keep or shred. I've decided that things need to be more organized next time no matter how big or small of a place they put us in. I so need to make a check list.

All of this getting ready to move activity has got me thinking. How are the kids going to handle it....

Lil Kiwi is young enough that I'm not too worried. In fact, the only part I'm really worried about right now is getting her into her own room. Finally (hopefully) we will have a three bedroom and we get our own she will get her own room. Wee Man is the one I'm more concerned about.....

Wee Man loved the last one and always talks about where we have been before however, now that he is older I'm not so sure. He informed me the other day that he wants to stay here when "WE" move. His plan is to live in the house alone and continue to go to the same school next year. *sigh* One second he is all excited about the new state we will move too and then the next he doesn't want to leave. How do you help a five year old with moving worries?

He understands that we have to move and even tells me when kids in his class have moved away. Thus one of the reasons why we fought to leave after he finished school this year. I figured it would be easier to start at a new school from day one and not half way through the year.  Yet, I fear this move is going to be tough on him. We talk about the positives and such but still it's a touchy subject sometimes.

Heck.... even the dogs are worried.... Not that I'm surprised since Black dog always gets nervous when we start packing. Fawn dog however has never done a move with us so it was surprising to see her get nervous also. Let me just say that trying to clean is difficult when you have two 80 plus dogs following your every move. Velcro dogs... that is what they have become... *laughing*

You know what I think I'm going to do tonight..... visit some blogs... I miss seeing what ya'll are up to.... Apparently, I also need to get on Facebook because I've been informed by more than one person to do it.. *laughing*  Also got some photos of the kids that I need to post... Sounds like a plan...

So..... What are some ideas to help Wee Man with this move.... I'm ready to listen read your ideas....

Thursday, April 29, 2010

Winner of DigitalRoom's sticker/label giveaway

The prize up for grabs was... 250 Stickers/Labels from DigitalRoom.com

Random.org picked comment #24 as the Lucky Winner.....

Congratulations to henrysgraphics...

Thank you to all those that entered and to the wonderful sponsors...

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

The great house clean up

It's amazing how much "stuff" one acquires when they aren't looking...

Honestly, where did all of this stuff come from?

With the count down to move day approaching I've stepped up the spring cleaning. I have devised a plan...

THE PLAN... go through each room twice maybe three times and get rid of the extra stuff. Goodwill/donate as much stuff as possible... Thin out the kids ever growing army of toys... Toss the stuff that we think we need and keep the stuff we really need...

THE REALITY... time is ticking and things are not going according to plan.

We did get rid of a few key items that we needed too... The Step 2 play gym/slide/swing set went to a neighbor (that we like)... They also got the almost new canoe/boat we were getting rid of... The custom playhouse might also go to them IF the person that wants it now falls through....

However...

We acquired a free Barbie 4x4 Jeep for Lil Kiwi (thanks DH).... Then the neighbor that took the other stuff gave us a 4x4 Dora Quad for Lil Kiwi... It is sooo cute and she loves it... Plus, I found more boxes of books in the garage... Bollocks!

Just about a month left to get this household ready for the move.... I'm scared...

Needless to say I am not getting on the computer much at all.. In fact, two whole days went by without me even turning it on. Even my mom has called me and told me to check my email a few times...

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Wordless Wednesday - Quality Control Check

Are you sure this one passed inspection?

Monday, April 19, 2010

Digital Room Custom Stickers Giveaway

Several years ago I use to work for a large company and part of my job was to promote it. It was a hassle getting everything ready for printing only to find out it was going to take at least two weeks (that is unless I was willing to pay extra). If only I would have known about DigitalRoom.com my job would have been so much easier.

DigitalRoom.com has been providing top quality products for over 25 years to small and medium size businesses. They are also committed to protecting the environment by using low-VOC soy and vegetable based inks, non-toxic water-based AQ coating options, and they recycle.

With so many different products to choose from you are sure to find just what you need. Do a lot of shipping for your business? Why not design a custom set of labels to place on your packages or gift boxes. The extra touches are what can make your business more memorable to clients. Stickers would also be a great way to promote your business, blog, party, or any other events.

Ordering is as simple as 1...2...3...

Prize: 
250 Stickers/Labels
2x3.5; 2x4; 3x3
70 lb Label Matte coating
Full Color Front and Blank back (4/0)
6 Business Days Turnaround
Shipping: FREE UPS Ground Shipping
Eligibility: Limited to US Residents only 
 
To Enter: Mandatory Entry (one time only): Leave a comment telling me how you would or plan on using the stickers/labels... If this rule is not followed your entry will be deleted or removed from consideration.
 
Extra Entries (leave a separate comment for each one) :
  • Follow Weeshenanigans (+2 entries)
  • Blog about this giveaway linking back to Weeshenanigans and DigitalRoom (leave url/link in your comment) (+4 entries)
  • Follow Weeshenanigans on Twitter
  • Can tweet daily by copy and pasting: RT #giveaway Win 250 stickers/labels http://tinyurl.com/y4de52o from Digitalroom and @weeshenanigans
  • Grab my Shamrock button
This giveaway will end on Tuesday April 27 at 11:59 PM EST...

The Winner will be emailed on Wednesday April 28... So, please make sure your blogger profile has your current email address OR leave a valid email in your posted comment. (ie. weeshenanigans (at) gmail (dot) com) The winner will have 24 hours to reply or new winner will be drawn.

Please note that Sponsor is responsible for prize fulfillment.

Good Luck to everyone

*Disclosure: I may receive the same item being given away from the company for hosting this giveaway. Product for this review/giveaway was supplied to me by the company or pr representing the company for the sole purpose of reviewing and/or giving away. No monetary compensation was provided for this post. All opinions in this post are that of myself and do not represent the views of the company. Reception of product does not influence my views on the product and I will always give an honest candid review of product received. Please see Disclosure Policy for more details...

Sunday, April 18, 2010

What to do....

We are getting ready to move in about two months so we are cleaning out extra "stuff"... There is a ton of extra "stuff" for us to go through and that means figuring out what to do with it.
So, I started cleaning up the spare boxes and papers in the computer room. Was feeling good about it until I came upon a box of books and then another box of books... Imagine my complete joy horror when I found a few more boxes of books. These are a few of the boxes...
They are all in good to new condition and most have been read by me already. I plan on some marathon reading in the following weeks to finish the ones I haven't read. There are some I plan on keeping because I really like them but the others need to go.
Here is my question should I ......
  1. pack them up and Goodwill them
  2. give them away on my blog
  3. pack them up and hope DH doesn't notice
  4. other
Let me know your thoughts in the comments... If you pick other please let me know what you would do....

Saturday, April 17, 2010

LIVID!!!! Does not even begin

to describe how PISSED I am... Seriously, there are soooo many things I wish I could blog about but do not. We try to not post about how crazy it is living on this street with the WACKOS that we call neighbors... However..... after living here for three years and dealing with them everyday I am done... Thank goodness we are moving...

Before I get into what happened... *deep deep DEEP breath*  Let me give you an idea of what it has been like...

Four kids... their ages now are 4,5,6 and 9... It has been like this since we moved here three years ago (ie starting ages of 1,2,3 and 6). They are always outside playing without ANY supervision adult or otherwise... Several times the youngest ones have almost been hit by cars because they don't look... They will open your front door and walk right in (never this house because I always lock it)... They will open your car doors to "help" you out and them "in"... The cops were called when the now 5 year old was 4 and was standing and jumping on top of their minivan (once again no supervision)... They scream.. push kids off bikes or toys and take them... In fact, one tried to run over Lil Kiwi with her bike but I took the hit and then chewed her out... Not five minutes later she ran into Wee Man as he got off the school bus and I had to chew her out again... The 9 year old picks on Wee Man. This is the tame stuff... So... you get the picture.... One of the adults doesn't care what the kids do and the other one sometimes encourages it..

Oh and I have tried to talk to the kids and explain to them right and wrong.. They don't care either..

Well, yesterday.... OH yesterday was the last straw... We were getting ready to run to the store and the door bell rang and rang and rang... DH opened the door and told the 5 year old to please stop pushing the doorbell and that we were leaving so please leave... Ten minutes later we go outside and see this...
OOOO my mom can tell you how I dislike these particular neighbors... However, it's not like we have a choice and we are civil with them... The gloves are off now... I'm taking it to the mattresses... No longer will I take this bullpoop... We have complained before but nothing was done... For two years we have asked to be moved to a different house on base but there was always some excuse...

DH already went next door to talk to them about paying for it but the husband is TDY and will be back Sunday. The wife already knew which kid was to blame without DH telling her... Perhaps because this is what their minivan looks like...


Anyway. She said they will pay to fix it and that they are responsible however, I don't think the husband will be as understanding... I hope he will be but *sigh* he is the one that would say something like "kids will be kids"... If he does fight this we are trying to figure out what to do. We already plan to report it to the MP and housing but that doesn't mean much... Not trying to cause problems but honestly what the POO!!! At my wits end here people...

What would you do?

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Wordless Wednesday - Ol' Blue Eyes


Lil Kiwi attempting her best Frankie.....


Think she did a good job?

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

I can see clearly now...

Turns out that little Kelso moment with my eye was kinda a big deal. No one is sure what I did (including the Dr) but I had a nasty deep laceration on my eye. Woo Hooo.... After taking my eye medicine 4x a day for seven days I can see clearly again.

Today we took Wee Man to the ENT (Ears Nose Throat) Specialist to see if we can figure out what is going on with him. Ever since we moved to this state three years ago, Wee Man has had reoccurring ear infections every two-three months... Almost all have been bilateral, always quick onset and very painful...

Diagnosis is...... No clue....

"Well, his nose is beautiful.... no really his nose looks great." Dr. E explained after looking up Wee Man's nose.

"Hmmm" *smile* "Thanks..?.." I reply

"Looks like his Eustachian Tubes have a tendency to pull in more than normal, or suck like a vacuum" *holding up chart*

To which I just nod and stare clueless at Dr. E. He then went on to explain that most likely it's not allergies but rather the common cold that is causing all of Wee Man's ear infections... Since we are PCSing to a new base in June we decided to just see if that helps. (ie.. hope a different climate helps)

SO.... His Eustachian Tubes are unable to effectively regulate air pressure thus causing ear infections when he comes in contact with sick kids at school the common cold virus. I guess Wee Man really can claim that going to school makes him sick.. hehee

Anyone else have a child with ear issues?

Monday, April 12, 2010

Ultimate Blog Party... Let's party like it's errr 2010

Aloha... O-si-yo... DobrĂ½ den... Guten Tag... Haileo... and

Hello to everyone visiting from the Ultimate Blog Party at 5 Minutes for Mom!
Ultimate Blog Party 2010
I am a tad late in joining the party this week; which in real life would never happen but here in the bloggy world I tend to get lost reading blogs... Shame on me I know... Going to keep this short so everyone can keep the party moving and visit all the wonderful other blogs joining in this year.

Brooke... that's me... *waves*  I am a Jill of all trades.. Before I became a wife and mother I held many other job titles. I've trained dolphins, tigers, dogs......done property management, marine mammal rescue, and everything in-between. Then when I wasn't looking I found DH and changed my title to SAHM. Which I guess isn't much different than what I was doing before.. LOL

Daddy Shenanigans is referred to as DH here on the blog. The two of us grew up in the same state but it took moving to Hawaii before we found each other.

Wee Man is our almost 6 year old son. He didn't start talking until he was 3 1/2 years old but is now at the top of his class. Yes... I know he is only in Kindergarten but ooo you should listen to the teach and staff at the school praise him (and not just because)... Although that does not mean he listens to anyone and is quite a handful. I love him even in those moments when he questions everything and everyone. I swear he is already a teenager. ov vey.

Lil Kiwi is just shy of turning 2 this year. Sugar, spice and almost everything nice... Before she was born we already knew that she had a few medical issues but the list grows with each doctor visit... Currently she has six different specialist that see her on a regular basis... Nothing slows her down though... She is just as active as other kids her age and you would never know there was anything wrong with her... I melt when she smiles.

Of course, in this family the animals are included. Black Dog was a rescue from Hawaii and is without a doubt the best dog I have ever known. He turned nine this year and has more airline miles than a lot of people I know.

Fawn Dog is the residence couch potato even though the dogs are not actually allowed on them. She was born in Ireland and then had a racing career here in the US for a few years. We were lucky enough to rescue her after her retirement and enjoy her crazy zooomies and helicoptering...

The short and sweet of it is that this is the Shenanigans blog. It has photos, the struggles and joys of being a parent, photos, story of Lil Kiwi's medical journey, giveaways, book reviews, rants, ramblings (a few too many) and did I mention photos... Okay it actually is more than that but trying to keep this short remember.. *laughing*

I hope you will come back and visit from time to time. OH and if you do please let me know and I will follow you back to your blog.

Aye yes the goodie bags at the end of the party... If I'm LUCKY I hope to see these three items in my bag...
Toshiba Satellite L505D-ES5025 (but I think everyone does), INTL 14S7 Blog makeover and the USC 3 – $50 Target Gift Card....

Otherwise finding any of these would be great too... (in no particular order) US76,US105, USC 8, USC 15, US112, USC 37, USC 57, USC 44, USC 39, USC 40, USC 36, USC 25, US107, US87, US77, US73, US74, US52, US32, US31, and US2... oh and any that deal with blog makeover (for blogger)....
Thank you for stopping by and I hope to see you all soon. Now I'm off to visit a few parties and make some new bloggy friends...

Saturday, April 10, 2010

Outsmarting Temptation with Yoplait Light Giveaway/Review

Temptation is not a good thing when you are trying to watch what you eat; even more difficult when you have others around you that leave tempting foods out for you to see.

One way to outsmart temptation is to indulge that craving with yogurt. With so many different flavors and brands you are sure to find one that is perfect for you. One of my favorites is the Thick and Creamy French Vanilla from Yoplait; which is why I was thrilled when Yoplait and MyBlogSpark sent me a gift set with a coupon to try the new flavors.
Blueberry Pie

Red Velvet Cake

Did you know that....

Red Velvet Cake 400 calories, 24 grams of fat per slice
Yoplait Light Red Velvet Cake 100 calories, 0 gram of fat per serving

Blueberry Pie 360 calories, 17 grams of fat per slice
Yoplait Light Thick & Creamy Blueberry Pie 100 calories, 0 gram of fat per serving

So, now when you are tempted to grab a dessert you can instead indulge in either of Yoplaits new yogurts without all the extra calories. In fact, you don't have to use them just to curb your temptations because they are the perfect snack between meals. Yoplait light yogurts also provide 20 percent of the recommended daily value of calcium and vitamin D. 

It took me awhile to find the newest flavors at the store but when I did I also picked up the Cherry Cobbler to try. I'm telling you it's difficult to pick because there are 32 wonderful flavors and they all sound so yummy. They were all good but I did like the Thick and Creamy better however, that's just personal preference on my part. They just seem more rich and decadent and makes me wish they had more flavors in the Think and Creamy selection.

The only thing I did not like was that they use Splenda as the sweetener. There is nothing wrong with that at all except the fact that I am very sensitive to those types of sweeteners. So, if you have no problems with the sweeteners then you are most likely going to love the new flavors.

You are also going to love the fact that Yoplait and MyBlogSpark are giving one of my readers the same Yoplait Light "Outsmarting Temptation" gift set that I got. It includes an insulated gourmet lunch tote, a food journal, a travel utensil set and a coupon for one cup of yogurt.

Please note *The coupon offer for a free cup of Yoplait Light yogurt is not valid in some states, including California, Idaho, Louisiana, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, North Dakota and Tennessee that doesn't mean you can't enter but you wouldn't be able to use the coupon.


Can't wait to try the new flavors? Head over to Yoplait's website and grab a coupon for a $1 off or check out some of the recipes you can make using Yoplait..seriously there are some yummmmy looking ones.

To Enter: Mandatory Entry (one time only): Leave a comment telling me which of the new flavors is your favorite OR your favorite Yoplait yogurt flavor overall... If this rule is not followed your entry will be deleted or removed from consideration.

Extra Entries (leave a separate comment for each one) :
  • Follow WeeShenanigans (+2 entries)
  • Blog about this giveaway linking back to Weeshenanigans (leave url/link in your comment) (+4 entries)
  • Follow Weeshenanigans on Twitter
  • Can tweet daily by copy and pasting: RT #giveaway Win a Yoplait Light "Outsmarting Temptation" gift set  http://tinyurl.com/yajnw7r from @weeshenanigans  
  • Grab my Shamrock button 
This giveaway will end on Wednesday April 21 at 11:59 pm EDT...

The Winner will be emailed on Thursday April 22... So, please make sure your blogger profile has your current email address OR leave a valid email in your posted comment. (ie. weeshenanigans (at) gmail (dot) com) The winner will have 24 hours to reply or new winner will be drawn.

Please note that Sponsor is responsible for prize fulfillment.

Good Luck to everyone

*Disclosure: I may receive the same item being given away from the company for hosting this giveaway. Product for this review/giveaway was supplied to me by the company or pr representing the company for the sole purpose of reviewing and/or giving away. No monetary compensation was provided for this post. All opinions in this post are that of myself and do not represent the views of the company. Reception of product does not influence my views on the product and I will always give an honest candid review of product received. In this case, I received the gift set from Yoplait and MyBlogSpark.

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

My Kelso Moment

One of the nicknames DH uses for me sometimes is Kelso... If you ever watched that 70's show you know who Kelso is and that he often says... "AAAA my eye"

Well...

AAAAAA my eye......

Not sure what happened but my right eye is painful... red.... watery... and no it is not pink eye....

I find it hard to watch the kids since I can barely keep my eye open (mostly just keeping it closed)... So, I am not doing Wordless Wednesday this week since I can't really see the monitor anyways... On the upside Wee Man is better and returns to school tomorrow....

In just a few moments we are heading out to the hospital/clinic since the base doctor can't get me in until next week. Since they are a first come first serve I don't know how long it will take to be seen but don't worry I'm sure it will be fine. If not there is a full scale hospital right next door literally and a professional eye doctor just down the street.

So, what I'm saying is.... "everyone (ahem) MOM..... Don't worry too much and I will call you when we get home..."

I do have a photo from yesterday before it got this bad but I think I will spare you the visual.... Although DH said he wanted to make it his WW.. Post the photo with a cartoon eye patch drawn on and title it "Arrr me pirate wife"... Yes he is that much of a dork....

Monday, April 5, 2010

It's all a bit crazy

Due to all the missed days of school from snowmageddon the school was open on Wednesday and Thursday as make up days.... Sounds great until it's 0230 in the morning on Thursday and you hear your child whimpering and crying in pain...

Yes.... it was as feared.... Another Ear Infection!!!

Early morning call into the doctors and we had a 1030 appointment. Which is just early enough I can't send Wee Man to school and just late enough that if we don't get out on time he misses school. *sigh*

They were running late so we waited... and waited...

The diagnosis..... One and a half ears infected.... When Wee Man gets an ear infection he goes all out. Seeing as how he never had any until we moved here and now her gets them just about every two to three months it is now a problem...

Next week we are off to the ENT specialist to see if we can figure out what is the underlying problem or to talk about tubes...

Needless, to say I have been busy playing with the kids so I have not been on the computer much. I really need to fix my laptop or see about getting a new one; so that I can use it more.

Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Wordless Wednesday - The simple things

Gloomy days....
Sick moody toddler...
Rain...
Letting her play in the water puddles.... totally worth the extra laundry....




Monday, March 29, 2010

Always something

happening at the house of Shenanigans...

It started when Wee Man actually lost his first tooth at school somewhere... and now Lil Kiwi is the troublemaker...

Honestly, I was having flashbacks from the new year visit to the ER... Lil Kiwi had some type of rash across her back and chest but it was not the same so I did not freak out....much...

Since Thursday she has had a temperature of at least 99.0 but no more than 99.8...

Her mood has been less than stellar with mood swings left and right...

Asking for food/drink and then refusing to eat (unless it is fruit or a fruit strip)...

No real naps for two days now... Add that on top of the fact that she does not sleep much at night either (which means neither do I).

She has also been grabbing her diaper a lot. Since she is at risk for UTI (due to medical issues) I have to be careful and try to prevent them. Thus far we have been lucky and she has not had one but I still worry.

The problem is that I know she is cutting two teeth right now and that could explain most of the things going on; however, that does not explain the diaper grabbing... We are also potty training or I guess it's more like the potty is there and IF she wants to get on we let her. She has used it a few times and I'm sooo proud of her but these times she doesn't want or ask to use the potty. Which has me wondering if she is grabbing because it's uncomfortable from a UTI or if it's nothing..

UGH... To call my good for nothing doctors or to wait and see if it's just teething..

The good news is she was so worn out from two days without naps that last night she actually slept most of the night without fussing. Which means I got some of the best sleep I have had in months.. *happy camper grin*

In fact as of 0822 she is still sleeping but was whimpering earlier... Yes, I am probably over analyzing it and it's just her teeth coming in; yet with all the little things that are different with her it's hard not to over analyze.

Bah I spoke too soon... She is awake.... Let the day officially start... NOW

Sunday, March 28, 2010

Winner of Rolled Canvas

The Lucky Winner picked by Random.org to get a Rolled Canvas Print is...

Alli with comment #50

Congratulations to Alli

Thursday, March 25, 2010

What if there is no tooth for the tooth fairy

Does the Tooth Fairy visit if there is no tooth to collect?

That was the question Wee Man asked and I honestly didn't have an answer for him.

On Sunday morning Wee Man informed us that his tooth was loose. Upon inspection it was found to be a little loose but nothing major. I figured this weekend we would get some supplies and make a tooth chest for Wee Man to put his tooth in while it waited for the Tooth Fairy to take it.

Sunday Evening... All he talked about was putting his tooth under his pillow for the Tooth Fairy.

Monday morning it was still a little loose but I warned Wee Man about being careful at school... Packed a safe lunch and warned him about eating with a loose tooth. He returned from school with tooth intact.

We caught him playing with his tooth once or twice that evening and explained why he should not be touching his tooth. I know he wasn't listening to anything we said but we are parents and that's what we do. Of course, I should clarify that his playing was more like pulling on it and we didn't want his tooth to come out before it needed to.

Tuesday morning first thing I hear from Wee Man is.... "My tooth is really loose."  Sure enough it was really loose, seeing as how it had only been two days, but it was still in there pretty good.

Halfway though breakfast he comes into the kitchen tissue in his mouth and grinning to tell me his tooth was bleeding. We had the warning talk (again) and I told him to be extra careful today. I didn't think it would be coming out but you never know.

As he come running off the School bus the first words out of his mouth were... "I lost my tooth"

"Did you tell your teacher and where did you put it" I asked excitedly

"I lost my tooth before specials.... I lost it" Wee Man explained

Then the dreaded question....

"Mom.... will the Tooth Fairy still visit if I lost my tooth?" said with a bit of concern.

"I don't know Wee Man... I guess we will have to see..." 

A call to Nonnie (my mom) for some advice and some brainstorming came up with this solution...
A nice note to the Tooth Fairy explaining what happened and hoping she would still pay for the tooth that was missing at school...

*insert a truly funny evening of DH and Me here..... can't write details because someone in the family can READ and well that pretty much explains it*

Wednesday morning I was in the kitchen when I hear Wee Man running down the hall and into the kitchen.

"MOM.. MOM.... Look Looook..." holds up the tooth chest "She came and left a note and money!" Wee Man squealed
Now... I don't know about you but that Tooth Fairy is one sweet fairy.... Not only did she write a note to him but she also left him 2 dollars for his missing tooth. Apparently, the going rate for a child's 1st lost tooth is high..

As far as I can guess the missing tooth is/was in Wee Man's tummy... Specials is a few classes after lunch so I think Wee Man swallowed it with out realizing it.. He thinks it's at school... Only the Tooth Fairy really knows....

I only hope that the next loose tooth doesn't go missing....

So.... Do you think the Tooth Fairy was right?  What is the going rate for teeth anyways?