July 31- The Housewife?

I think that my husband believes that because I am not teaching right now, that I should be doing all of the "housewife" duties. For example, today I woke up with Molly at 5:30, did laundry, ran errands, cooked dinner, cleaned up dinner, made dessert, put the baby to bed, and killed a fly (because I was told that I am the master of killing flies). I did all of this while my husband slept till 7:30, worked, ate dinner, took the dog for a walk, watched the Olympics (and all updates) and laid on the couch while pointing out to me where the fly was located. I think that I might have send him a little email him a little reminder about when I am going to be starting up at school again. Then his ass can start making dinner and doing the laundry again! (I do actually love him, who else would do all that crap?)

Sorry...this cracked me up!

Yesterday, I thought I would be adventurous and took my "babies" to the park. It was a beautiful morning, the park was crisp, not too hot and we had it pretty much all to ourselves. Things were going well until it was time to go home. I accidentally spilled water on Reagan's stroller, and I didn't want to get her pants full of water so I had her walk. Well, she was not seeing my side of things and kept going back to the park. So I picked her up, while pushing the stroller, and holding Molly's leash. But then Molly didn't want to leave and she laid on the floor. Now there was no way in hell that I was going to pick them both up, and push the stroller. So I put Reagan down for a second to lift Molly off the ground, but then of course Reagan takes off toward the playground. By this time two other families were enjoying the park, and I am sure that they were thinking "What in the world has this woman gotten herself into?" Eventually, I did manage to get Molly into the car and then corral Reagan and the stroller and we were headed home!  Next time, I will make sure to bring some treats to bribe Molly. Reagan...well...I am not going to be bribing her with treats, I will just pick her up (while I still can)!

Luckily I have a sense of humor about all of this!

I think that I am getting a little excited for school to start. I am a creature of routine and this non-routine is really starting to bother me.  Reagan and I stopped by my new classroom to start getting it organized. She didn't really help that much because in order to keep her occupied, I let her do whatever she wanted. So she "cleaned" out the cabinets, threw the ball around, pushed the stroller and even took a walk with me and Mr. Arturo while we moved a table! She was pretty good, but next time, I will make sure to pack more snacks and maybe even turn on a cartoon?!

My little "helper"...ummm!

Molly had puppy class today! She was unfortunately the only puppy there , but it was nice to have one on one with the trainer. Today we worked on leave it, down and drop it. These were all pretty challenging. Of course, Molly did excellent for Daddy, but snatched the treat from me when I had to do it with her. We will definitely have to practice that with her this week.

On another puppy note, I talked to the vet and we are going to wait to see if this whole leaking thing gets better after she gets spayed. I set up the appointment for next week but the bad thing is that she has to stay overnight! I  feel so bad for her, but I think that it is good for her to be in a calmer environment than at home. The good thing is that I can pick her up first thing in the morning. :-( I really hope that the leaking gets better!

July 29- Wisconsin

Well...we found out that Molly is definitely a water dog. She absolutely loved jumping into the lake, at my parent's friends house in Wisconsin! As soon as we got there and she saw the other dogs in the water  (there were 7 ) she jumped right in and acted like they were all old friends! She chased after the toys and nipped at the other dogs, that were ahead of her to fetch. Of course, she acted like a puppy and jumped on all the people to say "hello". But we felt that she did rather well not being on her leash and staying with the group. Even Grandpa, was fond of her while she was being good (my Dad is not a fan of Molly's "puppy" stage) Molly did freak out when a few of the Moms and a few of the dogs went for a walk. Molly decided that she had enough and took off back to the house on her own, which kind of scared everyone for a bit.

                                         A water puppy! (Thanks for the great pics Kristin)

Reagan was a little jealous that Molly got to go into the water and she couldn't. Reagan loves the water and was pretty ticked about being the only one that was not able to go in,( after all there were fish in the lake and I think that she thinks of her and Molly as equals). However, Reagan did get to go on a very memorable canoe trip with Mommy, Grandma and Grandpa. This trip included a slightly over served Grandma (which made for a lot of entertainment), a wrong turn (which landed us running into the bank), a few minor cusses from Grandpa and an overshot of our landing. (This is what I get for letting two city folk take me and my daughter out on a canoe!) Reagan seemed to enjoy it though, even if she did not get to see any fish.

Of course the food was wonderful and it is always so nice spending time with our old neighbors. We are so excited to have two more pregnancies in the neighborhood! Luckily, Reagan was a doll and charmed it up, as to not scare them (even with only a half hour nap in the car). Reagan even did well with her first fireworks show! (Mommy held her ears tightly for the whole time).

Reagan's first fireworks!

At the end of this little adventure, Tony and I concluded that our trip to their beautiful house is never relaxing. Both of us were either on Puppy duty or on Baby duty. We need to ask them if we can come up for a night just by ourselves! Overall, I loved going there with the "Babies"! It was nice to have the "whole" family together and not have to worry about getting home! It was so nice the next morning, cause both Molly and Reagan were pretty tired. After Tony went to work, Molly got to come up on the couch with me (and a blanket, to catch if we had any leaking) and we all slept till 7:30!

Our little family trip!

7/27- Last Day of Class

We enderengly called Ellie, "Babygirl". We endearingly call Molly, our "Junkyard Dog". The reason being; she looks like the smaller version of a Junkyard Dog, we are constantly picking up pieces of (stuffed)"animal"parts and she makes the "grreeerreerr" sounds, that can be pretty errie at times. We decided that for Christmas we are going to get her some tin cans to go with this theme.

Playing in the "sandbox"

It was too cute today.  Reagan has been practicing her kisses and she was giving me a kiss. Molly was watching us, and before I knew it Reagan leaned over and gave Molly a little kiss. Molly is also doing better with her kisses She is slowly learning that she gets pet and more loves, if she gives kisses instead of nipping! (Thank Goodness, my hands were getting really cut up.)

I am so thankful that my Math class is over! I came home and since this was our "stay home" night, I got onto Pinterest right away and decided that I would make Beer Bread Pizza. It did not turn out well at all. I think that I need to get a pizza pan instead of a cake pan. Boo! I was very disappointed and Tony even refused to eat it, and ate leftovers from yesterday. I just put it into the oven too cook longer and I will have it for lunch tomorrow ! Luckily, I made a fabulous salad, Mint chocolate chip ice cream sandwiches and breakfest sandwiches (to freeze for the mornings). I am enjoying all of this cooking, but it is getting expensive and I feel that I should start putting my brain to less domestic ideas.

Saw this on our walk. I thought it was a moth, but now I see that it has no antenna?

Tomorrow, we are headed up to Wisconsin to visit my childhood neighborhood "family". We love going there each year. Usually this event has lots of dogs, so we hope that Molly will get some good exposure and be respectful to the other dogs and people. We also hope that she jumps into their lake that their property is on. I am anticipateing that Tony will jump in, if she starts to struggle. It should be interesting!

July 26-Watson, the Basset Hound

Today I was not sure weather to go for the wine or the ice cream. I picked the wine because a)  ice cream doesn't go bad b) I had enough junk food today c) it might liven this blog up a bit!

The vet called with some "good and bad" news.(I really hate when she says that.) Always the good news first; the urine sample came up with the culture not growing anymore, which means that the medicine that she is taking is working. The bad news is that if she is still leaking (which she is), then it might be developmental. So...whatever is causing this leaking is not just causing leaking, but is also causing her to get an infection each time. This highly frustrates me! I know the vet will want us to wait to see what happens after she gets spayed,and we will hope that it somehow helps. We were not planning on spaying her till after we get back from Colorado. So... this means that we will have to wait (and in my case, worry and clean) for another few weeks. This also means that we have to hope that she does not get another infection. My new approach, is to put some positive energy at this whole situation. I am going to stop moping and start thinking positively. Since I am not a doctor, a genie, or a fortune teller, that is all that I can do! I'll be a good Mom and keep reminding myself that God will not give me more than I can handle (Thanks Mom!)

Molly and Watson

On a happier note! Molly had her first playdate today with my friend Rebecca's dog, Watson. We discovered that Watson and Molly were born on the same week!  He is a basset hound, which makes him significantly shorter than Molly, but he definitely dominated her in the ear department! Molly really showed her bossiness too. She keep sitting , pawing, rolling and grabbing poor Watson. Watson did get her in a headlock a few times and that is what she needed to cool it!  Toward the end, Watson realized that if he stood up on the chair, that he was taller and Molly couldn't get to him. (Molly did not appreciate that at all!) They played for two hours and right now, Molly is still pretty wound up! (Go to sleep and let me enjoy my WINE! Jeeze!!)

Out goal on this playdate was not to scare Rebecca, but to encourage her that motherhood, in the puppy and baby sense, is not all that bad.  Reagan did a pretty good job of putting on the charm and even blew her a kiss as she left. However, I am sure that Rebecca was very happy to go home to her quite, non-leaking Basset Hound and her husband, after vising the "Hernandez House-o-Crazy".

Reagan kept wanting Rebecca to bounce her!

Molly was not happy about Watson being taller!

 

Tomorrow is my last day of my math class. All this Math class makes me want to do is to get into my own classroom and get started on setting everything up! I am hoping to get in there next week, just so that I can go to Colorado and feel that I have at least a start to my classroom. Tomorrow night, we have set aside to relax and start getting ourselves organized for Colorado. It's getting close!

July 25-Unhealthy

Today, I for lunch I had chocolate carmel pretzel bark...Thanks a lot Pinterest. It was amazing, but I don't think that is what most would consider "healthy". Considering that I have not worked out in over a week, I don't think that I am losing any weight! I honestly think my crappy life style is why I am in such a cranky, blah mood!

Thankfully, my class was more productive today. We got some time to work and thanks to Google Docs, we actually got a lot accomplished! I can't wait to use Google Docs more this year!

We were excited to have Uncle Scott over for dinner today. We got him a little Back to School "starter kit" for his new classroom at Elgin High. It included scissors, stapler,  dry erase markers, eraser, mechanical pencils, Sharpie Pens(fav), dry erase board, white out, tape, highlighters and paperclips. I think that I got a little carried away, but I HEART school supplies!

Molly really wanted into the bath!

Still no word from the doctor, but hopefully tomorrow we will hear back. Tomorrow afternoon, Molly is going to have a puppy play date with my co-workers puppy Watson, the Basset Hound! We are so excited!

7/24- Frustration

Right now, I am feeling kind of blah!!! I am not very happy that I have to be in a curriculum class all week. I am not happy that this class is not what I thought it was going to be. I am not happy that I have to tutor tomorrrow. Most importantly, I am NOT happy that Molly is STILL leaking!

I definately know that I have a lot to be thankful for. I am glad that the class gets over at 1pm each day. I am glad that I get to "suffer" through this class with my new team. I am happy that I am tutoring for extra money and not to "pay the bills" (Thank YOU!). However, this Molly leaking thing is really starting to tick me off and down right worry me!

Molly hiding from the Thunderstorm!

She went in yesterday so they could take another sample from her bladder. (I think it was buy one get one at the vet, cause I did not get charged!) I told the vet that I thought  the medicine was working, so she gave me more pills to help her. BUT...it is definetly not getting better and she seems to be leaking more sometimes! GRRRRR!! I am hoping that she gives me a call tomorrow with some better news and some ways that we can figure this out.

Of course, I am a typical 21st century Mom and I looked up her symptoms online. From what I discovered, she might have this hereditary disease ( that is VERY uncommon..of course), that causes the leaking. To correct this problem, it would involve surgery, which only shows to have a 50% chance of a success rate! Ohh...It must be a cheap surgery...NO...of course not! Again, thankfully I have learned a few lessons in my 30 years and did purchase the dog insurance! Yahoo! (This is the very reason that Tony gets so ticked at me, cause I jump to conclusions about things and freak out before necessary. This "problem" did cause me to toss and turn and end up on the couch last night, a typical Tanya response to problems.)

On a happier note, Molly did so good at Puppy class today. She nailed her "watch" and "sit". She even did so good on her "loose-leash" walking! I was so proud, I almost started tearing up. (I know...emotional...) We will see how she does on our family walks this week!

Molly "sitting"

July 22- Home Again!

Home Sweet Home! I am so happy to be back to our house and our puppy. The trip was wonderful and went better than expected, but there is nothing like being in your own house, especially with a baby and all of her "things".

Reagan woke up this morning around 7 and it was kind of hard waking up, even if I didn't drink. I was just so tired from the whole weekend. We had our muffins and some watermelon and then went and grabbed some coffee. We decided to go for another little hike to take some pictures. It was starting to look like rain, so we only went out for a bit. It is so nice and fresh in the morning there. We vowed to come back in the fall or winter to see the streams and waterfalls, at this point the beds were as dry as a bone!

Reagan and I in the dry creek bed!

We had breakfast with Steph's and Todd family and it was nice to see the newlyweds before they left for their Honeymoon tomorrow. Then we packed up our car and headed home. Reagan slept almost the entire ride, while Tony and I chatted about our next trip to Colorado and our upcoming 2 weeks.

Molly was pretty excited to see us, but I think that she is still too young to understand the fact that we left her for two days. Now, I don't know about you but when I get back from vacation, I don't enjoy living out of my suitcase. Just like when we have a party, we start putting everything away and even started on some laundry. I was so thankful that I spend a majority of Friday cleaning the house, cause now it is nice and clean for uswhen we got back! (Thanks for keeping it that way Bret.)  Even though I am so glad to be home, it always feels strange returning from vacation. It feels like all the anticipation of the trip is behind us and now we have to start thinking about getting back to work and normalcy. Unfortunately for me, I have class all this week for school, so no rest for me.

This afternoon, Reagan, Tony, Molly and I all managed about an hour nap. (A nap in the middle of the afternoon is incredibly strange for Tony and I , but we were so exhausted.) We then took then on a trip to Black Bear Park. It was amazing cause on this trip we saw two bullfrogs, a crane, a turtle and three Beavers! I feel that I am so much more observant of those things as a parent now. Later we took a trip to JCP for Associate night and got some great deals on K-cups, sunglasses and some shirts for Tony.

Yeah...I don't think you can see it, but it was a Beaver!

Overall, I was so happy with how our trip went. I am just so in love with Tony's family and I am so glad to add another member. Maybe in a few years they will even consider giving Reagan even more cousins! For now, we are so glad to have all of our families be a part of our and Reagan's lives.

July 21- Stephie's Wedding Day

My favorite thing in the whole world is Weddings! I don't care who it is, what type of wedding it is, or how much it cost us to attend! I am NOT a hopeless romantic either...in fact, I despise lovey dovey crap! I just love being around new people (all dressed up), dancing, drinking, flowers and cake. Today was no exception! This wedding was beautiful!

The Hernandez Family

We started off day two by waking up a little later than normal, quarter to 8! We enjoyed our Apple Cinnamon Donettes and "homemade" muffins. Tony went down and got us some "Coffee" (which he claimed was a Cafe Mocha, but we decided that it was indeed hot chocolate, Blah when it is 90 degrees out!) We took a little drive into town and picked up some contact solution and toothpaste. It was only 9am, so a lot of shops were not open, so we headed back.

Stephanie asked me to do the honor of  letting her and Todd read their vows to me, separately to see how they "sounded" together. So Steph read us hers first (yes, Tony helped too and he was actually helpful) It was so sweet and romantic (Even for me, who is not lovey dovey). Todd was so sweet and could barely get it out (I was defiantly holding back tears and gave him a hug afterward)! Tony and I thought that they went well together wonderfully and it was so cute that they both used the word "goofy" in their vows, which we appreciated. (We didn't mention that to them, but the both figured it out after they read it in the ceremony.)

The beautiful Bride and Reagan

After that we took a little trip up Starved Rock. Which we did not realize was quite a lot of stairs. It was not far by any means, but was quite a lot higher than our flat streets of Elgin. Tony had Reagan on his back and as soon as we got back up the hill, he said "Take her off!". It was nice, cause while we were up there we "hiked" into some of Tony's Uncles and Aunts and got to chat for a bit.

By that time, it was time for lunch and Reagan's nap. We wanted to get her in for her nap a little later, but we had to be ready for pictures by 2:30. So she got about an hour and a half nap. We got ourselves together and got down there for pictures. It was pretty hot, but I didn't care, I had a dress on! I felt bad for the boys in their suits.

Reagan playing Peek A Boo!

The ceremony was beautiful and Reagan did a great job of walking down the aisle holding Aunt Kaylee's hand. (She didn't even need a cookie bribe.) When they read their vows everyone loved it and I know everyone had tears, just like I did!

The reception was beautiful and everyone was having a great time. It was definately a different experience having to watch a one year old and I only had one drink (which I will be thankful for in the morning) Reagan started to get a little fussy after dinner, so I picked her up for a bit. She watched all of the "dances" and then we tried to get her to dance too. One of Stephanie's adorable little cousins is a little older than Reagan and she was CUTTING A RUG. Reagan wanted nothing to do with it, and just sat there ( I told Tony that we need to have more dance sessions in the kitchen with her). Tony and I brought her on the dance floor together to see if she would "open up" a bit. She looked at Tony and layed her head on his shoulder. That is when I decided that she was done, and it was time to be a responsible Mom and take her up to bed. I wanted for Tony to be with his family, so I had him go back down.

A very tired flower girl...who insisted on NO BOW by this point!

Um...I thought you were tired Child? She was asleep 10 minutes later!

While we were on our hike today. The vet called and said that we needed to bring Molly back in for another little test to see if we can get a better sample of her urine. I really hope that everything is OK with her. My poor baby...I am really starting to miss her too and I can't wait to get home to her tomorrow, although Grandma reports that she had a little puppy playtime with her neighbors dog and had a great time!

July 20- First Family Vacation

Last night was spent tossing and turning, turning and tossing. My stomach was in knots and when Molly started crying at 4am, I was pretty much up for the morning. See today was the day that we found out if Tony got the new supervisor position at Best Buy.

It sucked that Molly woke up at 4am, but Tony just let her out and then put her back in her cage and she slept till 6am. (Quite "late" for her). Reagan started waking right away after they got back from their walk. So...It was time to start our day. Today was our first Official Hernandez FAMILY vacation. Was the first time that we have traveled and stayed at a hotel with Reagan! 

We stuffed everything into the car and took every single possession that possible had to do with a baby (later we found out that we forgot her PJ's!) Before we left, we were taking Molly for a long walk when I saw Tony check his voicemail. (Knowing what was going on today, my stomach started churning. Of course, he didn't mention the call to me.) When we got back from our walk, her took his phone onto the patio and called the number back. I sat and played on the floor with Molly and Reagan, thinking that if he got it, we were stopping at McDonalds on the way to our trip. He walked in with a slight smile on his face, a smile of disappointement I guess...
 "I didn't get the Algonquin position". DEEP BREATH...
"It's ok...., you still have two other stores to call you back" I said. (Damn, no McDonalds)

We put Molly in her cage,got Reagan all strapped in, and we were on our way down 90. I asked him how he was feeling and he was pretty open about saying that he was disappointed about it, but "we will wait and see". When we got past Woodfield on 355, the phone rang. My stomach did 5 flip flops.  It was the Assistant Manager. I heard "Hey....ok....yes....yes, I accept!" He offered Tony the position!!!! My stomach wanted to leap and shout HOORAY!! I don't think that I have ever been so relieved in my life.

I know that we would have been "fine" and he would have found something that he loves, but I honestly think that he really enjoys his job and it is such a flexible job with our schedules.. It's new each day, it challenges him a bit, and with this new position he can learn a little more about selling. I am so excited for him and I know that he is super relieved. To "celebrate" we stopped at Culvers for lunch!  (We even got ice cream!)

I know that he didn't actually lose his job, but this unsure "experience" made me realize that I need to be more humble. I think that we need to prepare more for the "what if's", because you never know what might happen. With the hour drive we had left, we discussed that Tony will be going back to school in the fall to finish up whatever credits he has left. So that when/if this were to happen again, that he can have some other options and not have to start from square one.

Reagan and Aunt Kaylee

This family vacation is actually my sister in law Stephanie's wedding. We are so happy to be here with our family and it is always so nice to have all of Tony's sisters and brothers together at once. We took full advantage of our time here and took a nice long hike with Tony's siblings to Lover's Peak. It was so beautiful and Reagan did pretty good on Tony's back.

The Bride and Flower Girl

Later on we had the dress rehersal. Reagan is the flower girl and since she is so young, no one expected her to really throw flowers. However, I had all summer, so I did buy pedals and we did practice a home. At home is a little different then a real aisle, ton of people around and wonderful accorns to be picked up. At this point, I will be impressed if she is able to walk by herself without being lifted up by her poor Aunt Kaylee.

Overall, Reagan has been such a wonderful girl. She is obsessed with the fish in the lobby. She is constantly wanting to walk around and has been very interactive. I think that she is just excited to be somewhere different, see new people and explore new things. She stayed up till about 9:30, which is probably the latest that she has ever stayed up. I also wonder what time she will wake up. (Tony and I will probaby be up around 6:30 and lay in bed waiting for her to move)

Loved the fish and the bear!

Tomorrow is the wedding, but we do have time in the morning to do as we please.  I plan on getting a large coffee and going for a nice walk with my little family, however I do think that my little puppy sure would enjoy this beautiful weather and all of this walking! (Thank you to Uncle Bret for staying with her this weekend!!!)

July 18- An Expensive Day

Today was a very expensive day. It starts off with the fact that I did not tutor or work, so right there we are in the negative.First, Reagan went to the babysitter, then Molly's vet appointment, then the plumber came for some yearly "maintenance" (which caused our bathroom sink to crack, which cost us $30 for a new one) and then I had our stock up trip to Walmart for our trip. So overall, I would say that if the bank "forgot" about this day, that would be fabulous!

Molly's vet appointment turned out to be a lot more costly then Reagan's. For Reagan's, I had a credit and only paid $13. For Molly's, I paid $154!  Because she has still been leaking, we had to have another urine analysis. The doctor called back and said that she has a UTI, which means that we will put her on more meds and see what happens. She did mention that it could be possible that she has a birth defect and that might have to be corrected with surgery...more expenses. However, she was pretty confident that the UTI would be the cause. To ensure that we get her the right medication, she did suggest culturing the urine. Yes, this has a cost too...$130. The lucky part is that we learned our lesson from last time and bought Pet Insurance, so if she does have to get surgery this will "help". The problem is that our insurance has a minimum $1000 deductible. I think that Molly needs to go on my work insurance!


Molly waiting at the Doctor's office.

Since this is our first family vacation, it seems like we can't pack enough. We are only going for two days, but it seems like we have to pack the car for any sort of emergency, including fire, tornado, hurricane and any other accident that Reagan runs into. My solo trip to Walmart included:

• Donette (Apple Cinnamon, which was met with "that is not the kind my Mom gets")
• Little Water bottles
• Pedialite (Guess who wanted that?)
• Oke Doke White Popcorn (not healthier by any means)
• Mike and Ikes
• Animal Crackers
• Muffin Mix ( I will make them myself, Thank you!) (Crap...I forgot that I threw out my muffin tin last week)
• Diet Coke (of course)

These items were all added to our already purchased bag of Reese's Pieces and Pretzel/Cheddar Combos (Tony and my staple "Road Trip" food) Our car will carry two pieces of luggage, a "carry on", a pack and play, a stroller, a baby carrier and an entire bag of "stuff" for Tony's brother from his Mom.



Reagan practicing her flower girl routine...this is going to be interesting!

On another" happy" note, Tony had two interviews today with Best Buy and one yesterday. We will find out the news by Friday. So...lets just say that we  hope that we get some happy news on Friday. The frustrating thing is that I was not at these interviews. Therefore, I can not determine how then went and being that my husband is a man of few emotions, I did not get crap out of him!  When I asked "How did it go?" I got a "Good". Jeez Louise!! Why are men programed to be so unemotional. If it were me, I would probably spend a good hour discussing the questions, how the interviewers emotions/expressions were, what I could have done better  etc, etc! Oh well...I will just remain hopeful I guess!

Reagan helping Grandma water the flowers.

July 17- Puppy Class

When my friend taught her son sign language, I thought that she had officially gone off of the deep end, but now I think that I have gone off the deep end. I have currently taught Reagan "more", "please" and "milk". She kind of likes it and thinks of it more as a game than a form of communication. It's pretty darn cute when we are reading our bedtime book and she signs "more" to read more books.

Today was Molly's first day of Puppy class. We thought that it was important that we both attend each session, so we are having my Mom watch Reagan. There are a total of 2 other puppies in the class. One is a miniature labardoodle and one is a chocolate lab. They are both super tiny compared to Molly, which Molly takes full advantage of. The chocolate lab was tiny, but he thought he was pretty "tough" until Molly trampled on him with her one paw!  We learned  how to use the clicker, "watch me' and "sit". Molly did really good, but she had some definite ADHD. She watched us for the trick, but as soon as she got her treat, she was off looking for the other puppies. It was so embarrassing cause she kept jumping on the other owners. We REALLY need to have people over more so that she learns not to jump on them. Our trainer is super sweet and she didn't even bat an eye to our naughty little puppy.

Tomorrow is my day off...but not really. Reagan will be going to the babysitter so that I have time to get ourselves ready for our "big" trip. I need to buy some breakfast and snack items, finish the laundry, pack our bags and clean up the house (cause my brother is going to be staying here with Molly) My plan is to TRY to get to the pool for a bit to get some rays and even try to hit the gym. If my husband is lucky, I will even make dinner...maybe!

July 16- Patience

Patience, Patience, Patience!!! That is what I had to keep reminding myself today. Patience, with my husband, Patience with my child and patience with my co-workers...Patience, Patience, Patience!

It started at 7:30 when I woke up (a treat, I know), I planned to take a shower before my "job"(Reagan) woke up. However, she heard Mommy move around and she woke up too. Tony says to me
"I have to take a shower"(well...so did I and my hair take a bit longer to dry?)
So I start making Reagan breakfast, while he takes a shower. He gets out and I ask:
"Did you take Molly for a walk yet?" (note: He has been up with her since 5:30 and it is currently quarter to 8)
 'No, I was watching her play?" WTF?
"Are you going to take her for a walk?" I say, very patiently
 "No, I have to get ready for work?" WTF again?
 "Oh ok, well, I will take BOTH of them for a walk and ALSO get ready for work!, No problem"
I think he understood my sarcasm, so while Reagan was eating her breakfast and I was just getting into the shower, I hear the front door shut. WTF!!!!! No problem! So...I drag Reagan's high chair into the bathroom while I took a shower! GRRRRR!!!!!! He got no words and one little kiss on his way out the door! PATIENCE!!!!

Molly with all of her toys that Reagan delivered.

Anyways, the rest of the morning went pretty smoothly. I had JCP today, where I continued to be patient with a whole lot of phone call for Free Kids cuts in August. I am pretty excited about it and I hope that it brings in the dollars that we are hoping for!

When I got home, Tony was working on his resume because he has an interview tomorrow afternoon for the Best Buy position. I think he was a little nervous because he said that he spent two hours redoing his resume ( I hope they actually take the time to read it!). I am so hopeful for him and I think that these interviews will be a good experience for him (he has 3 set up for this week). I know that he is very qualified for these positions and I hope that it shows during the interviews. (I also hope that all of my praying will lead him to what he is meant to be.)

July 15- The Final Quiet Day


Right now, I am enjoying the quiet before the storm. Starting tomorrow, I think my summer is defiantly JAM packed! JCP has even asked if I could pick up more hours in August for our Back to School event.  So right now, I am going to enjoy the fact that Tony has taken Molly on a little car ride, Reagan is asleep and "The Hangover" is on TBS.


Yesterday started with a quiet morning trip to the park. It had rained earlier, so it was pretty empty there. It was also pretty hot so we didn't stay too long. Normally I work in the mornings on Saturday, but I switched my schedule at JCP so that I could go to my friend's Baby Shower. Honestly, I hate working nights at JCP, they are so boring and drags!!!!

Reagan on the way to the park

Molly hiding from the Rain (It's a first for her)

!

This morning began at 5:30am when Tony had to go to work, and I had to take over for Puppy duty! Puppy duty shortly turned into Baby and Puppy duty at about 6am. Needless to say, it was a very long morning, which included a long walk, only a one hour nap, lots of bubble blowing, a trip to Aldi and even homemade Mozzarella bites. FINALLY, Tony came home at 12:30pm, and asked "So, what are we doing today?" Hmph!!!!!!

Well.... Reagan did need some new shoes and I had a little present money to use on buying a dress for the Wedding. I suggested that we wait till after Reagan's nap, but I was "told"..."Nah, she usually doesn't goes down till 2:30-3?" OK.... So we went, and when we came back REAGAN did NOT want to take a nap. This lack of a nap, created a very LONG evening, which included lots of whining and a lot more stumbling then normal.

Cranky Reagan banned from the Kitchen while Mommy makes dinner!

During Reagan's morning nap, my Pinterest roaming brought me to decide on making Homemade Meatball Sandwiches. Tony was pretty impressed that I even made the Meatballs from scratch. I must have really been enjoying my wine, cause I even got ambitious and made Salad! The nice thing about making dinner is all of the "leftover" lunches.

Tomorrow, we begin the process of packing our entire house into our car for our trip. It's going to be very interesting to see what we can NOT bring with us. If it were up to me, I would bring the refrigerator, the rocking chair, Reagan's crib, all her books and both of her strollers. I don't think that will happen though.

7/13- Friday the Thirteenth!!!!

Well...It's Friday night, I have had my glass of wine and I am watching Dateline... alone. I use to think that my "social" life was the lamest one around, but from talking with my other friends, I am starting to realize that I am quite normal. In fact, when you get married, have kids and even add a puppy to the mix, your social experiences become limited. (Maybe I will write this on Wedding cards?) It use to not be as bad cause, we would take Reagan to the "Grandmas" house and we would be free. Now we have Molly and no one wants to watch Reagan AND Molly, so we have to be here or come back early! Oh well...at least right now I feel somewhat social with my glass of wine (even if I am alone)!

Last night was pretty rough. I knew that it might be when I heard Reagan first squeak at around 10pm. She cried a bit again at 2:30 and really started wailing around 4. I got up with her and she had a bit of a fever (from the shots). I gave her some Advil and we slept on the couch till Tony got up with Molly. Now, Tony and I are not  "Family" sleepers. I would never bring Reagan into the bed with Tony and I cause I would not want him to squish her. Plus I really don't sleep that well when she is in there, cause I get nervous that I will squish her. However, at this moment, I was enjoying the snuggle time, cause she was not feeling well and I "knew" that she just wanted her Mommy. I was "right" cause her and I slept till 8:20 when I finally woke her up.

Nothing like a stick and a Popsicle on a hot day!

After breakfast, Reagan and I had a playdate with my favorite stay at home mom, Kelli. As always, I am blown away by her calmness. Her daughter is 2 1/2 and it is interesting to see what Reagan will be like in about a year. It is amazing to see how much they are like "little" people with their own personalities.

Reagan and Kelli's Daughter on their Playdate

After lunch, nap and another dose of Advil (poor baby), Reagan and I headed to a short shopping trip to find some shoes for the wedding. We went to Burlington Coat Factory and Target. BCF didn't have shoes but we found a fabulous Rehearsal dinner dress for her for only $7.99. We then stopped by Target and found her some shoes. A little more than I wanted to spend, but she will defiantly use them again. While we were there, Reagan was cracking up and waving to everyone like she was the Queen (even if they didn't wave back); We also got Daddy some PopTarts and Diet Coke (something that he had been craving since our "budget" cutsl and I took away his $20 a week).

Tony's Poptarts and Diet Coke

After we go home, Tony had to stop at the store to get some Pedialite for his "Night Out" for his Future Brother In Laws Bachelor Party. (We will see if this "miracle" works for him too?). Then Grandma Baba came over for dinner. Normally, we ALL go over to my Mom's and she makes some wonderful meal for us to enjoy, but since Tony wasn't home, I decided to try a Pinterest Recipe with her ( I am sure she was thinking "Oh great?? :-/.  I made Pizza Biskets, sweet potato fries and corn. Surprisingly, she really enjoyed them and EVEN asked for more (WOW)! We then took a nice long walk to get Molly's energy out.


After Grandma left, and Reagan went to sleep, it was just Molly and I. Molly is what the "Puppies for Dummies" book call Adolescent Stage. This basically means that she is a major B when she gets in her mood. Her and I got into another tiff whens he felt that she wanted to jump on the couch. Now... eventually, we will let her go on the couch (cause we like to cuddle), but not till she understands that WE are the boss (and she stops freaking leaking).  Eventually, I won after some "dominating" and a "time out".

July 12- Just another Thursday...

Our goal is to get Molly to understand that after Reagan is put to sleep, that means "quiet" time. As she barks and runs around the living room, I don't think that she gets that yet. I guess that we just have to keep ignoring her. It is espcially going to be hard when I go back to work. As of now, she spends no more than 3 hours in her cage. It's not going to be fun when she spends more than 6 in there...

Yesterday Molly and I got into a bit of a fight!  The new neighbor kids wanted to meet her, but she was barking and running away from them. Very unusual, but whatever? Then the kids wanted to say "Hi" to Reagan who was just watching from the patio. So I walked over to Reagan to bring her over and Molly (still in her "mood") went at my shorts and got her little sharp tooth into my leg! GRRRR!!! Then when I grabbed her to put her into the house, my nail got stuck in her collar and it tore my nail! OUCH!! She spent a few minutes in "time out" after that.

Molly and her cousin Bella and her friend Charlie

To help Molly with her social skills, Tony took Reagan and Molly over to his sisters to play with her and her neighbors dog. I guess it went well, cause she didn't even get up to say "Hi" to me when I got home (or maybe she was still "ticked" about the whole "time out" thing from earlier?).

Pre-shots...

Today, Reagan had her Doctor's appt. She is still too young to understand what happens there. She was a happy camper, smiling and playing. That is when the "lady" came in with the long things, then Reagan looked at me in fear. My heart breaks when she gets her shots. When she falls, I don't feel bad for her cause it was self inflected, but shots are just horrible to watch her get. Luckily, it is the last ones for awhile.

Reagan getting her popsicle after her shots. (yes it was 10:30 am...)

It was a little warm today, so we left Molly at home, and Reagan and I went to visit Great Grandma. Reagan enjoyed the treat today at Grandma's; Watermelon. Grandma had to buy them "cause her doctor said that she needed more water"? My Grandma is a card!

Reagan eating her watermelon on her new "chair"

Later, Tony's Mom came over to help "fix" Reagan's Flower girl dress. It is a little long in front, and I didn't trust myself to cut it. She is way more particular and patient than me. I would have just taken the scissors and started cutting. She was great about lining it up and making sure it was "just right". Reagan was NOT happy about having to try it on, cause her arms were hurting from the shots. Our big job tomorrow is to find shoes that fit her for the wedding. (I am having one hell of a time finding shoes in a 3 or 4.)

I am uber shocked that it is almost the middle of July. I can't belive that Steph's wedding is so close and our "BIG" trip to Colorado is VERY shortly after that and then we start talking about the "S word (School)!!!!!!!

July 10- Wine???

I have come to the realization that I need to drink more wine. Afterall, it is summer, I am not pregnant and I don't really work...why not? During the day, I always crave a nice glass and I tell myself  "after the "babies" go to bed", but by the time they both get sleepy, so am I.  Then that glass of wine idea is LONG gone and I start looking for the ice cream! Besides, I am not 20 (yes, 20) anymore, I can't handle a glass of wine like I use to. Going to bed with dry mouth and the room spinning is not my idea of quality sleep! Maybe I will try having a glass after Tony gets home (so we have at least one responsible adult around), while I make dinner? No joke, I will probably go and buy the boxed stuff, cause once I open a bottle, I am NOT going to finish it and that is just bad economics!

This morning I met with my new 4th grade team. We chatted about some plans we have for next year and started talking a little about curriculum. I am definatly going to miss 2nd grade buy I am uber excited about 4th grade. We even planned a little "puppy"playdate for the future. Stay tuned!

Since I am on a roll with being the most wonderful wife/mother in the world, I made dinner...again! This one was not as unhealthy as my Baked Chili Dogs, but it was definatly more expensive. I had a taste for pizza and apples. So I made Apple Gorgonzola Pizza with carmalized onions (plus a made a regular  pizza that Tony would like too). I loved it, but it will definatly be a company only creation! I also made White Chocolate Chip Rice Krispie Treats for dessert! (See..if I stayed at home, I would weight 200 lbs!)


Ready for the trip!

After our yummy dinner, we took a bike ride to Black Bear Park! I really wanted to take Molly, but it was probably too far for her. Reagan enjoyed her ride in the trailer, she was reading her books the whole way there (Maybe she is going to be "that" kind of kid?)  Reagan loved going down the slides and kept wanting to go again and again! It was such a beautiful night for being outside. I even offered to take Molly for her evening walk while Tony put Reagan to bed!

At the park!

July 9- Not an easy trip to the Park!

As I scrape the bottom of the ice cream bowl, I remember that I was suppose to go for a run today. I have been putting it off because of the hot weather, but tonight is  perfect for running. I especially need it since I found a new Pinterest recipe...Baked Chili Cheese Hot Dogs! They were amazing, but probably hit WAY over ANYONE'S calorie count for the day. Tomorrow, will be "going to the gym" day, so I will run then...Opps!

Molly's new favorite spot in the Kitchen (She is a smart Cookie)

This morning began at 4:30, when Molly woke up. I was feeling generous/experimental and woke up with her. She went outside and then I decided that I was going to try  letting her play in the living room while I slept there on the couch. This semi worked till I opened my eyes and saw Reagan's foam sandal all over the floor in front of her...Opps! I hid it before Tony could see. (Note to self: Remove any destructible items from the vicinity before doing THAT again.) At 5:30, I decided that I was done being nice and woke Tony up to feed her while I went back to sleep. Without skipping a beat, Reagan started rustling around around 6am and actually started crying around 6:30, so much for being generous tomorrow!

Tony worked today at 9am, and I think that he was REALLY looking forward to leaving for the day. On cue, Reagan went to bed two hours after waking up. Luckily, Molly also took a little nap, which meant that Mommy got some rest too, but only about a half hour. ( Since we have gotten Molly, I don't feel that I have had one normal, solid sleep...I am ALWAYS on alert, I think I need to get over that!)

Reagan in the swing

To be (very) adventurous, I planned a little trip to the park with Molly and Reagan... BY MYSELF! I began by making a little lunch for us, which included a Thermos and bowl for Molly's water. Just getting both of them into the car was a job!!! Finally, we were all strapped in and the 6 blocks away to the park.  I was hoping for a nice quiet park, but found it loaded with camp kids! Oh jeeze, I do not need to be bombarded with 20 kids around a puppy and trying to hold onto a baby!! We took a little walk and then enjoyed our lunch on a table FAR away from others. By that time, the camp kids had left, awww...too bad!. Molly was SOOOO good while we were there! A little girl walked up and asked me if she bit (obviously, she had no idea about puppies), so I explained that she liked to say "Hi" to people by "tasting" them with her teeth first (not trying to scare her but telling her that she does try to put her teeth on people we are working on it)! Of course, this did not scare the little girl cause she went right up to Molly and tried to pet her. Obviously, Molly lunged at her cause anyone that shows an interest in her get a nice lunge. The little girl was very patient though and by the end of it, Molly had three children under seven; petting, pulling and tugging at each of her body parts, including her back paws?. She didn't even bite them. I just kept yelling "kisses, kisses" at her and she did exactly that. Where was Reagan you are wondering? She sat there in complete awe while these children showed adoration to our puppy. I think she was thinking "Who cares about her, aren't I cute? Pay attention to me!"

Molly and Reagan on our "picnic"

After that "job" we came home and started on my Pinterest creation. My sister Casey is living in California and has been working on planning her wedding here next September. So she mentioned a place that they were looking and and I volunteered to go and take look at it. So, we took a little "Road Trip" to Elk Grove to look at this reception hall.  It was really nice and Tony and I both really like it, but I think that we liked it because "it's not our money"!

Molly and Reagan at the park!

July 8- A/an un"productive" weekend

Wow! For a weekend that was not that productive, we sure did a lot! I am almost relieved that tomorrow is Monday and I have NOTHING planned! However, my brain is already starting to think that Reagan and I will go the the park, have a picnic and then go to the pool...maybe!

Saturday night, my husband and I got a chance to go out with friends. We went to the festival in Hoffman Estates. Our friend worked the beer tent, so that was "nice". (I defiantly think that I will volunteer for that next year, it looks like it might be fun! Who's in?) It was a very special night because we even went to Bandio's for a drink! We left a little early cause, of course, Tony had to work, and I had to work harder (with Molly and Reagan) in the morning.  It was nice to go out with adults, enjoy a few beverages and of course, a nice funnel cake at the festival! (YUM!)

Hanging out at Bandito's (They looked kind of ticked?)

Me and my hubby

This morning Reagan and I went for a play date and my good friend, Renae's house. It was nice for Reagan to "play" with some different kids. (Even though she only thought about herself and barely paid attention to them.) Renae is a SUPERMOM.  She works a great job and has such wonderful and polite kids! I envy her. Each time that I go to Renae's house, she has some sort of yummy creation that she makes. Today it was Grilled Cinnamon Raisin bread with apples and cheese. It was sweet and savory! I wanted 3 more!

Reagan and her "Playdate"

After we got home, Reagan took a nice long nap and Tony and I sat on the porch. We read the newspaper/iPad to each other and "solved" the world's problems. Our biggest discovery was that a LOT of houses in our neighborhood that were empty, have finally begun to sell. This discovery gives us some hope about our future home "selling" opportunities. (We love our house, but it is just too small)  Molly was such a good little puppy, she rolled around in the grass and did a pretty nice job of mulching up the sticks for us. I have never been so thrilled to have a COLD front come through the area!

After Reagan woke up, we decided that we should "practice" taking Reagan in the carrier for our "hike" that we might be taking in Colorado. We want for her to be use to it, so she doesn't cry the whole time when we actually go hiking. We brought her and Molly to the field by our house. It is about 10 acres of field/farm/trails that we LOVED taking Ellie to. We would always let Ellie off of her leash and play hide and go seek with her, or let her run through the snow! Molly is defiantly not ready for that, but she enjoyed sniffing around anyways.

We are ready for our hike!

Later, we asked Grandma Debbie if she wanted to check out the Carnival with us. We thought the food would still be there, but it wasn't (boo,that Funnel Cake was calling my name!) Reagan rode on the train and the Carousel. We were surprised that she didn't cry! Next year it's the "Tilt a Whirl" (Ha ha). Since the food was not looking that promising Grandma bought us Red Robin...it was a nice treat!

Reagan got her own balloon, and she thought she was so cool!

Reagan and I on the train! (Yes, we were the conductors)

Reagan on her own Pony,she won of course!