Last Look Before it All Begins

The Day is finally arriving. My children couldn't be more excited and I have found myself frantically running around doing things that I have forgotten or put off till the last minute. I actually have to head to the mall today. Yikes. This year, Christmas literally sprinted up to me and now I have regrets about not enjoying the season as much as I should have. Things I jipped out on: baking, cooking, making gifts, doing crafts, spending time with friends, having a party, attending a party, going to church. That's just about everything involved with Christmas, isn't it? Things I learned this season: 1)don't take a vacation in the beginning of December, it shortens the season 2) I need to plan and start early on the crafts, probably in January 3) Not baking or cooking has allowed me to maintain the same weight, which though my weight is not ideal, at least it hasn't changed for the worse.

Included in this blog are pictures of my house because decorating is probably the only thing I did the same and on time. I hope you enjoy this last look at Christmas in my house. My decorations get taken down the couple days following Christmas.

May the holiday be all sugarplums and candy canes for anyone reading this. May it be full of wonderful memories, not the kind where people go on talk shows to share with the world. May everyone be safe when traveling and eat without guilt. Merry Christmas!

P.S. My husband went shopping yesterday and came back with bags for me! I can't wait to see what he picked out-I'll let you know. I would love to hear what others' got, too. Anyone out there?

The Tables Have Turned

Today, I am at my mothers house. She has had knee replacement surgery this week, and my husband and I thought I could help her out for a few days while she recovered. My father is still in the house, but I think it is difficult for him to take on a caregiving role right away, he needs to have an adjustment period where he can acclimated to what is expected of him. In other words, my mother is not the best patient.

My father and I picked her up at the hospital and she was waiting on the side of the bed ready to go. She was a stellar patient in the hospital, doing her exercises, taking her medications, and hardly ringing the call bell at all. She insisted upon our arrival to the hospital that we go directly to Sam's Club to get some groceries-was she serious? She was. She had taken a pain med and was ready to take on the world. Instead, she took on Sam's, motoring around on one of those electronic carts and terrorizing the other customers. She wasn't heeding the warning not to drive around under the influence. Everyone survived and we made it home.

Today, she insisted on getting up her stairs to take a shower. Dad didn't like the idea, I was not sure. She won. It went well, but afterwards when she wanted to spend time on her computer, I put my foot down and insisted she take on the role of patient-what was I doing here anyway? She complied like a normal stellar patient would.

Taking care of my mom is a privilege and honor. After all the years of having been cared for by she and my dad, it is nice to return just a fraction of that favor back. It's also been nice having some time caretaking that doesn't involve diapers........well,yet anyway. I love you mom.

Overcoming My Obsessiveness With Germs

I never really liked dirt, even as a little girl. My
mother would say that I wore dresses and tights
and didn't really like to play in or touch the dirt. I was what you would call a girly-girl. As I got older, I did remain clean, just not very neat. As a teen, I grew up in a Victorian home full of beautiful things, but you couldn't see anything under the heap of clothes, shoes, stuffed animals, and bedding in my room. When I ventured out on my own as an adult, I became a clean and neat freak. My mom told me that she was worried when I was a teen that I would never outgrow that messy phase. She's proud at how I turned it around. To this day, I remain a little bit of a clean/neat freak. With all my boys, it's hard to entertain my obsessive tendencies towards having everything being tour-ready in my home. I also am unable to control the level at which my children subject themselves to our world and all its germs, bacteria, and viruses. Stallion will often jest with me that I can't keep my boys in a bubble, so I need to let it go. I have, but can still get shocked, like when my kids put candy that was on the floor in their mouths. Or the time one of them took a piece of ABC gum from who-knows-where and stuck it in their pie-hole. At these times, I feel like having them swish with bleach but as a nurse, am aware of the problems that this would cause. I will then settle for a good mouth brushing, then observing them for symptoms of what just HAD to be carried on that yummy find.



On our recent trip to Gatlinburg, Noah (that's him above), tested my germphobia. We were walking down the main street when I all of a sudden heard my husband cry out, "No Noah Don't!" From then on, everything was in slow motion. I turned and said "WHAAAAAT HAAAAPPEEENED?" Stallion said,"You dooooon't waaaaan't to knoooooow." I then turned to Noah and my mouth dropped. In his mouth was a whole new set of those goofy plastic teeth that kids wear on Halloween. He was happy as a lark. I was grossed out and thinking how long it would be before I could safely kiss him again. I also thought that he would need careful observation to make sure his face or body didn't respond to some crazy microbe. Well, he lived and didn't even get sick. Thank goodness for small favors. The lesson is: kids and germs go together and sometimes we just need to let it go a little. I kissed him that same day.

Gifts From My Man-"Stallion"

Alright, I will admit it: I LOVE getting presents. I like to pretend to myself that presents aren't important and that I don't need anything (which I don't), but I truly love receiving gifts. Sometimes it's hard for me to contain my excitement upon the receiving of these gifts. I will do the following: save my gifts to open for last in order to keep the anticipation high, smile from ear to ear and maybe giggle to myself, or stare wide-eyed at package and touch it periodically to make sure that it still exists. After it is opened, I also have to contain my thanks to the giver lest they feel like they are being accosted or are likely to experience great bodily harm. Often, I will just give a big smile, say thanks, then secretly look forward to the person leaving so I can ponder the gift.

My husband is one of the best gift-givers I have ever known. I have often expressed to him that he should offer classes to those husbands that have difficulty deciphering from her chatter what she would love and who seem to have a hard time finding their wife's gift. Every Christmas I will find boxes placed at the last minute under the tree that are for me from him. I can't wait. One year, he suggested we not buy for each other. This idea was shot down faster than a duck during hunting season. I explained how I looked forward to what he chose and every time I looked at the item, or wore it, I thought of him and his care in picking something out for me. Sometimes, those gifts are beautiful clothes that I would never buy myself because I am too cheap, or jewelry that again, I could never see spending the money on. The point is: he listens. I have found that I actually have to be careful what I say sometimes or I might receive that gift of the Chia herb garden that I mentioned I was curious about.

My friends are at times envious at my husbands gift-giving expertise. One has also made the mistake of verbalizing out loud that her husband should take lessons from Stallion (yes Tina, that's you). I honestly feel that the lesson to be learned is to listen. Giving that great gift is all about picking up little cues and looking at the person it is intended for. Gifts are definitely not what this season is about, but boy oh boy I can't wait to get mine from Heath. I'll get back to you on what it is.

Family Vacation to Gatlinburg, Tennessee-Yippee!

Our family usually enjoys traveling the end of October, but once we heard about the winter celebration in Gatlinburg, we decided to travel the beginning of December to this getaway in the Smokies. Gatlinburg is about 13 hours away, and yes, we drove it. This was an experience in itself, but we'll save that for another post. Gatlinburg reminds me of Wisconsin Dells for those of you live in this wonderful state and have been there. While Gatlinburg is nicely nestled at the foot of the Smokies, it has been turned into a tourist town with plenty of fudge and old-time photo shops. I absolutely loved our resort (the Westgate Smokey Mountain Resort) and loved the mountains. Hiking was a true delight and the waterfalls were phenomenal. I highly recommend taking the drive that transverses the mountain range into North Carolina for great picture taking and views. Restaurants were plenty and satisfied all tastes, and of course, Ripley's has taken over a good deal of the entertainment choices, so you can see their many different attractions.

Do I recommend this trip? Well, sort of. The mountains are SO majestic that it is hard not to fall in love with the area immediately and think that you could live there off the land like they did on Little House on the Prairie, but in reality, I am a small-city girl and would never be happy like that. Time with the family is never a waste, even if we sometimes feel like referees during Friday Night Smackdown. Vacations also make you appreciate the comforts of your home and the friends you left behind. Hearts grow fonder for all things home.

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

O.K. So I haven't written for a while. Let's see-Thanksgiving, then Black Friday, then a family trip to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, then all the usual tasks for the holidays-whew! I have been busy, as I am sure anyone reading this has been, too. I just love this time of year, but Christmas always comes and goes way too fast for me. Once the shopping is done, you truly get to enjoy the meaning of this holiday, then it is here and gone. Being a Christian, my family and I really try to grasp the true meaning of the day, Dec. 25- Christmas. We read the stories from the Bible, we talk about what we can do for others, and we look for ways to give. And although we try to get away from all the commercialism, it cannot be helped to talk about what the boys would wish for if they could have anything.

This year, because we were on vacation, we missed the school Christmas concert. I cannot say as I regretted this. While I love watching little children perform (especially when they perform things while they don't think they're being watched), and I can really appreciate all the hard work that the teachers have to do to put this together, I do not miss the parking fiasco, finding a seat on the hard bleachers, or trying to be comfortable in a hot and sweaty gym. Bless the teachers.

I also don't feel the love of the season on Black Friday. Maybe that's why I choose not to fight the huge crowds at our closest mall, but instead only go to a couple stores that are in the opposite direction with my husband. You can find us performing our breathing exercises in the car before we head out on this venture. It definitely takes a certain mindset, doesn't it? If anyone is reading this and cares to share a great story about Black Friday, I would love to read it.

Lastly, I can't help but feel a little saddened by all the arguing that seems to go on as to whether we should celebrate Christmas in the schools, call a Christmas tree a holiday tree, or be allowed to display Nativity scenes in front of public buildings. The only opinion I will give is this: December 25 was the day picked to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ on this earth. What has happened since, has been a result of business and people warping the day into something else that serves a different purpose. I have no problem with non-Christian's picking a different day to celebrate this season if they want to eliminate the "Christ" from everything, but Christmas Day is Christmas Day and cannot be something else. It is HIS birthday celebration-like we each have our birthdays and corresponding celebrations. Our family usually bakes some form of cake in order to celebrate and sing, just like we would on our special birth day. Well, there it is from my lips. I DO wish everyone a wonderful holiday season-Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, merry Kwanzaa! I love you all.

Holidays on a Budget

This time of year it's easy to get caught up in the shopping and spending, ignoring the credit card balance and hoping it will go away until spring. Due to a work injury, my husband has been out of work for almost two months. This has forced me to do some serious cutting back. I am spending less on gifts and trying to enjoy the season without all the 'stuff'. Here are a few ideas for putting more joy in the holiday and less cash:

- Check out some Christmas movies from the library and watch them as a family
- Light a candle and enjoy a good cup of coffee
- Enjoy family time around the fire playing games or singing carols
- Bake a batch of Christmas cookies before you have to, just for fun!
- Listen to Christmas music in the car
- Take a few minutes each day to count your blessings, and be thankful for that baby born in the manger
- Give homemade food gifts, not many of us need more stuff
- Send a handwritten card to a friend, reminding them of why you cherish their friendship
- Take the family for a walk or ride to look at Christmas lights
- Get out the good dishes for the family, even if it's just chili night

I hope this season will be one of special times with friends and family. Remember, it's all about relationships. God's blessings on you and yours.

More on New York City and Children

I feel that my children live a pampered life compared to many others in the world. While we don't have too much money, we do have heat, food, electricity, clothes, clean water, and all the other necessities. We also have many non-essentials such as a Wii, 3 televisions, a Nintendo DS, every Hot Wheel ever made, every action figure known to the younger generation, and all forms of building blocks. You get the idea.

We arrive in New York late at night because our plane was delayed. We are all tired by the time we reach our hotel. Uh-hem, Hostel. We check in and find out we are on the 4th floor and we have to all pile into a tiny elevator that moves at the speed of a snail. We step off the elevator onto a floor that I can only say looked like somebody threw up raspberry sherbet all over the walls. I tell the kids we will be fine and this will be an adventure, then we head to our room. Once the door is open, all of us start looking for the light switch. About 3 minutes later, I notice something hanging from the ceiling. It is a piece of string to which I then pull and the only light in the room comes on. Maybe we should have just kept the light off. My middle child, being the pampered middle that he is, exclaims "what is THAT about? This room doesn't even have a switch?" I then explain to him that this is still a common observance in some parts of the world and we will survive pulling the string. Well, the hostel didn't have bugs, or rats, but there was a bird in the room next door and we weren't sure if it was the occupants' or one that had taken residence from the outside. We shared an interesting experience sleeping in this different form of a hotel and we know we will laugh about those raspberry walls for years to come.

Wanted: Interior Decorator for the Candy Hotel/Hostel in NYC

P.S. I would have taken a picture but have to admit, I didn't want others to see where we had been willing to stay to save a few bucks.

Mixed Feelings in An Aging Mother

I realized I haven't poured out my thoughts in a few days. I am having mixed feelings this morning over two issues. One, my body is not functioning like it used to and I am disappointed in this fact. I turn 39 in a couple of weeks and my mind still feels SO young, but today, I went to exercise and my back feels like that of a hunched 100 year old. You know, my mom used to talk about this when I was in my teen years and early 20's and I used to think, "is THIS all they have to talk about-aching bodies, sick friends, body functions not functioning?" For some reason, I now feel justified to talk about the same and talk about it with everyone, mind you.


Second, I am a little sad today because I sent my youngest boy (age 3) off to school for morning classes. In our language-rich home environment he has not flourished and needs help with speech and development related to that area. This creates in me some mixed feelings: he is SO young and I don't feel like he should need to start "learning" quite yet, but I also want him to be at the same levels of development as others his age, and apparently, he is not getting the necessary tools at home. Maybe my sadness is just a realization that there are no others to cling to my leg, cry for more juice, or screech for a snack every 10 minutes. I need to develop other interests. Maybe this is a good time to set aside for my "job" of blogging. I could also get back in the routine of exercise. I could read, get organized, cook food, bake, clean house, email friends, make phone calls-the list is endless!!! Sometimes the joy in what could be a sad occasion, comes from thinking about all the possibilities of what could be. Maybe I'll finally get my floors clean. Maybe tomorrow.

I'm Having A Moment

Excuse me, but aren't we Moms allowed to have a 'moment'? Let me explain, recently my 15 year old daughter completed and passed her driver's education class. She is counting the days (35) until she can apply for her temps. She also informed us that a young man at school would like to take her out. Can't I get over one moment before she springs another on me? I mean, I am to young for this to be happening, right? My first born learning to drive... now wanting to date. How can this happen so fast?

I would grin and bear it when older moms would say 'enjoy this time, they grow up so fast' (as I've got 2 kids holding my legs and one squalling in my arms while the 4th one is playing in the street). It sure didn't feel like they were growing up fast! Then, all of a sudden you turn around and it's happened, they've grown up. I'm not one to get too sentimental, but really, driving.. dating, how can this be?

So there you have it, my moments. Enjoy them while you've got them.

Let the Basement Remodel Begin!

First, I must apologize for the blurry pictures, but you get the point. Our basement is in the middle of demolition. This room started out as a dank dark blue paneled room with outdoor carpeting and tiny windows. The goal: to turn it into a place my man can enjoy and the children can play and have large slumber parties. This is a lofty goal on a limited budget, but we are always up for a challenge. Since these pictures were taken, my husband has proceeded to take a concrete saw and enlarge the 3 tiny windows to fit nice-sized sliders so that the children and guests might actually have a chance to escape in case of fire. He has also, in his eagerness, carved out a 4th window (guess he really liked using that saw) that will even out the numbers on each wall. I love to watch rooms transform into usable updated spaces, and especially like to see it done on a budget. It provides inspiration to those of us who are unable to afford professional decorators. Look forward to updates on how this is coming along. I know I can't wait to see the finished product.

Comments!

Please send me your comments and share your own stories! I look them over before publishing so I can respond to them, or keep them private if so desired. I DO want to hear from you all out there. Join up so you can blog with us frequently! Thanks for reading.

Submission in a Marriage?-What Does THAT mean?

Submission. Even saying the word in my head does not bode well. It feels almost "icky" and makes me scrunch my face. Why is that? The dictionary definition refers to submission as giving up, or surrendering. It is the condition of being humble or obedient. As I am a visual learner, all I can conjure up are my dogs trying to let each other know who's boss by mounting or nipping and growling. This doesn't spark warm fuzzies, or thoughts of sugarplums and candy canes. According to the Bible, wives are to submit to their husbands. I had to wonder, was God kidding?

At the beginning of my marriage, as in most peoples marriages that I have spoken to, there seems to be a period of turmoil before there is a settling down. I remember a particularly tumultuous time where I believe my Hoover was kicked down the stairs at my angry, but unsuspecting husband much to his dismay and my own, at the knee-jerk reflex I was capable of. Mind you, I was pregnant at the time and incapable of much self-control when really upset. Soon after, I realized something would have to change if we were to succeed in this marriage and although I really wanted to think that it would have to be my husband, I was smart enough to realize that it had to start with me. He also wasn't being very receptive to my constructive suggestions about the flaws he should work on.

While watching TV one afternoon, a segment came on that was featuring a female writer that had written a book on surrendering in your marriage. I am sure the title is similar to that, but I am unsure as I write this. I knew I had to read it and ordered it soon after. It began the change in me. Often, I challenge my "stallion," especially because he likes to run free and wild with his mouth and often say things like "I command you" when he is jesting with me. He knows it gets my fur up and claws out and I will often respond with something G-rated (of course) like "no one COMMANDS me." I am wrong, though. We are commanded every day in life. I took an oath when I said my vows that binds me to, among other things, consider my husband above others and to listen, assist, and stay with him through the good, bad, and dirty-diapery. I need to accept his leadership and believe in him, while being free to offer to him my opinions and feelings on a matter. Through the years, I have come to depend on him. He does not fail me, and ultimately, I am entrusted to him for him to care for for the rest of our lives. If I believe in him, trust him, and understand the part I play in our marriage to make it a wonderful and joyous part of life, I must submit. This is not to say that I roll over and allow him to bite and nip me (notice what I left out), but that I understand the dynamics of our relationship and have a responsibility to do my part to make it work.

Others have mastered submission in marriage more so than myself. For me, it is a struggle to balance my strength and my pride with my ability to submit. The joy, I have to remind myself, is in the journey that life brings us on. Growth doesn't happen overnight, and for me, can sometimes take decades. More on this later. Woof woof!

Only in the Midwest

I love the way the people in the Midwest set their own rules. We run wild and free, most of us owning a house and land, or even just a plot of land. We take pride in our land and will defend it against those who would criticize the way we use it. Even when we are in an "urban" setting (a town considered incorporated), we choose to use our property in unique ways. I have seen full gardens, nick knacks all over, shadow people and animals lingering by many a fence, fake animals tromping through a front yard or sipping from a man made pond. Today, I saw a popular sport being played out in the front of our neighbors' yard within the city limits that could only be tolerated in the Midwest.

After playing at the local playground with all our children, we drove by our neighborhood church, then to our surprise, witnessed the corner home occupants hanging their latest deer kill from a tree. I cringed slightly, not because I am opposed to deer hunting, but because they then proceeded to gut the deer and remove the vital parts and spill them on the front lawn. "Kids, look at that. You should go down there and watch after we park the car," says my husband. Yeah, right. I wanted to take a picture to prove that it actually was happening in our quiet neighborhood, but thought that tacky and probably not appropriate for some of our readers. Where else could my children get such an accurate animal anatomy lesson from the comfort of our own vehicle? Only in the Midwest. Can you imagine what would happen if you lived in a high rise condo and suddenly saw a bloody carcass smack your window from the condo above? Heavens would that create a fuss. Bless Wisconsin and the freedoms we enjoy.

How I Met My Man-"Stallion"

At this time of Thanksgiving, I wanted to give special thanks for my great man-"stallion." We have been together almost 15 years now and it only gets better each year. Actually, it only gets more comfortable, like a great chenille chair with down cushions. He is my best friend and the one who if I HAD to pick one person that I was forced to spend all my time with-it would be him. We, of course, wouldn't always get along and I would do most of the talking, but he would be the person, nonetheless.



I love for people to share how they met their beloved, so for those of you who don't already know or want to hear it again, I will share how my husband and I came to get together. Our first date was on my birthday, which is coming up in a couple of weeks (I'll be 25 again!). I had just moved to Oshkosh after finishing nursing school and was looking for a house or condo to purchase. I ended up in my mans condo with the realtor when the realtor stated, "You would be a good match for the young man who lives here." My man was not in the condo at the time and when I left the viewing, he was down the block walking his dog and I could only see his back. I did not buy the condo and thought nothing else of it. I was a psychiatric nurse and wanted to work at the state mental hospital in Winnebago. I applied, was accepted, and wound up on the same unit as my man (there were 13 units at the hospital at that time, and no, he was not a patient). We worked together, and as he would exclaim to anyone who will listen, I eventually asked him out. The rest is full of the usual highs and lows with the end result being a long marriage and many boys. Life is good.



I love the story of how we found each other and it instills in me the belief that we are truly matched and were meant to be together. Of course, I need to remind myself of this everytime he decides to be a little lippy with me. So, I would like to start out the season of Thanksgiving by being thankful for my spouse. The joy I find in the comfort of having him is indescribable and such a blessing. I would love to hear other stories of how people met. Write and let me know!

The Christmas Season Has Begun

It's official! The Christmas season has begun. Anyone who knows anything about me knows that come November 1st, Christmas has begun at the Van Gysel house. My decorations are brought out and the transformation begins. The CD's are all switched to Christmas tunes and the seasonal movies are moved to the front of the cabinet. I also begin to read all the Christmas books we have in the boys' shelves to them at night before bed. What about Thanksgiving you ask? Well, I still believe in giving thanks and celebrating with the usual feast, but as for decorating, it's all about Christmas.

My children have learned that this is also the time when all the Christmas toy catalogs come out. The lists begin to pour from their little minds and hands as they claim every toy to be what they really want for the holiday. I find myself discouraging the toys that will require batteries of any kind and number or toys that will compete with the noise level in our active home. I also have to bring them down from the clouds and remind them that while the holiday will bring some gifts, the actual meaning is in the celebration of the birth of Christ. That can be difficult in today's world, where many would like to take out the religious aspect all together. I also have to reinforce the need to help others and give to others, especially those who will not be receiving a gift. Recently, we were discussing the reality of Santa and my children, ages 10, 8, and 5 were discussing the idea that since Santa is supposed to deliver a present to everyone on Christmas Eve, we didn't HAVE to get a gift for anyone else-he would take care of it. You can see now why I have to start early. It takes a couple of months just to get the true spirit of the season into their hearts.

So, the season for us has begun. I would love to hear from anyone who also feels the same and tell me what you do this time of year to feel the joy. Merry Christmas!

New York Review-Fun in The Big Apple!

Our trip to New York City was a great success. I highly recommend a visit for all of you who truly love a city vacation. There were so many exciting things to see and interesting people to meet and observe. Some of our favorite adventures follow. Enjoy.






Ah, Central Park in fall. I have to admit we were all very impressed with the beauty of it. An oasis amidst all the business of the city. We thoroughly enjoyed our walk through it. Funny- mentioning the walking, I do have to share that for the 4 days we were there, we spent most of the time walking. My sister-in-law wore her pedometer and we clocked 50miles around the city-JUST walking. The boys were actually great sports about it after a new pair of shoes for one and Red Bull for both. Walking is really the only way to get the most out of seeing the city.

The subway certainly provides a different form of transportation and entertainment. As it was Halloween weekend, we did expect to find people dressed up in costume. As we were obtaining our Metro cards for an early morning subway ride, I was poked in my back 3 times only to turn and see that next to me, was a young man 3/4 naked, dressed in a Chippendale tie, cuffs, and bikini. He got on our subway and ended up standing right next to us. I couldn't avoid commenting to him how daring that costume was and ask him where he put the money for the subway. He proceeded to share how he got stranded at a friends with no other clothes and now needed to get a pair of sweats purchased-FAST. I agreed. My boys just gawked at first, then acted as if they see it all the time on the streets of Waupaca, WI.

Of course, we visited all the usual sights. I found myself answering many questions as to why the sights didn't look quite the same as the movies they were featured in. The most disappointing being the Central Park Zoo. My children, who have watched Madagascar too many times to mention, were wondering where Marty, Gloria, Alex, and Marvin were. The zoo didn't even have any of these animals, but my children noticed that the clock in the movie was actually there. Thank you for small favors.

Lastly, we enjoyed the local wildlife. J and J (the boys) terrorized the pigeons, squeeled when a rat ran across the sidewalk in front of us one night, and admired all the New York "city" dogs. The reward of travel comes when my children realize how fortunate they are and empathize with those who don't have what most of us do. This trip taught them much, made them laugh, forced exercise (lots of it), and provided an experience I hope they never forget. You may hear more later as I share an embarrassing event that happened to me. Being able to laugh at ourselves is a true gift. WE LOVED NYC but it's good to be home.

Finding the Joy: Spending time together, especially while traveling, is a true blessing. We are thankful for the safe travel.

New York on a Budget-It CAN be done!

Tomorrow, a couple of my older boys and I embark on a journey to The Big Apple. We are SO excited about this, especially because we will be sharing our time with their aunt, my sister-in-law, and she is FUN. I love to research travel bargains and New York City provided many opportunities. Known as one of the most expensive cities to visit, it is also known to be rich in culture and learning opportunities that I really just HAD to have my children experience. After talking to a few friends about their experiences, I knew that my excitement was justified. Let me just end the mystery by letting you know that I was able to find bargains for airline tickets, 2 shows (1 on Broadway, 1 off), hotel (actually, Hostel), and sight-seeing for the unbelievably lost cost of $450.00/person-TOTAL! The extras will be Metro cards, food, and souvenirs, but WOW. Let me share my recommendations, then upon my return, I will write and let you know how we fared and if my bargain buys were really worth it.

1. I am not loyal to just one single airline, but I do have frequent flyer miles with 2 in particular. I must say that I fly the most frequently with Airtran Airways. I like that they have many nonstop flights (important with children) and many locations they fly in/out of. Our tickets were snagged for about $175/person.
2. Hotels can be pricey, but I found a well-rated Hostel in the upper West side of Manhattan close to the Museum of Natural History for get this-$92/night. That includes tax. Their are no frills with this, of course, just 2 double beds in a private room with linens, towels, and soap provided, and a shared bath, but how long do you actually plan to spend in your room? The shared bath was the hardest perk to give up, but the reviews stated the baths were kept VERY clean and were often available.
3. Tickets for the sight-seeing were snagged at one location: CityPass. Six top locations can be visited for one price-about $78/adult. The boys I purchased separately online at the various websites for a lower price.
4. Broadway shows. My friend recommends TKTS and I do, too, but I was also able to scour the Internet for tickets to Mary Poppins that totalled around $32/person (mezzanine) and an off-Broadway show called Altar Boyz for about the same. Total for shows: $64/person.
5. Through an organization known as Big Apple Greeters, I was assigned an excited volunteer who loves New York, to give us a FREE 4-hour tour around lower Manhattan.

This is all SO exciting. Now lets see if the bargain hunting was worth it. Tune in next week for the results and pictures.

The Bedroom- A Private Oasis

Recently, I decided to redecorate the master bedroom. Prior, my husband would tell you that it reminded him of the scene from The Wizard of Oz where they are all running through the field of poppies to get to the Emerald City. Yes, it was yellow and yes, there were flowers-lots of flowers. I felt a need for a little estrogen in my house where there was so much testosterone. Needless to say, not an oasis for my man. As I felt the need for a change in the decor, I found myself asking-What do I want the room to say to us? How do I want it to feel? (this is what I would ask my clients for redecorating their spaces) The answer: French Sex

NOW, before you click off this blog, thinking how inappropriate I am being, let me explain. My husband and I love each other, have been together 14 years, married 12, and have 5 children-4 of them still at home. Done with explanation. We need a place that speaks to our private lives and provides comfort. My thoughts realized, I started the makeover with zeal and a tight budget. I LOVE shopping for a bargain, especially when decorating. Above, you will see the almost finished product (I still want a faux fur rug for the floor). I was pleased with the overall effect, as was my husband, although he was getting discouraged with all the packages arriving in the mail and wondering about the cost and whether I held a fancy for the UPS man. Including the paint, I managed to repurpose items, buy new, and get it all for under $300. That's a deal. Looking at it, I am not sure how truly "French" it is, but it was just an idea anyway. I knew I had accomplished what I set out to do when my husband said "enough, it is starting to look like a brothel" (he has such man-taste) and one boy who was visiting for a playdate looked in and said "COOL!"

(now, that kid has good taste)

Finding the joy: It's nice when we can please those we love.

P.S. I would like to give credit where credit is due: Holly, if you're reading, thank you for your help. I hope you like the end product that you gave ideas on.

Restaurant Review-Rudy's Redeye Grill, Stevens Point, WI

O.k. now it is going to look like we dine out all the time. Not so, but I am going away for a few days so my husband and I needed a date. Read my review next week on the time we spent in New York City with kids!

Rudy's-We have eaten here before and it was great the first time around and we were not disappointed this time. If you have not been here, it is right off HWY 10, attached to the Holiday Inn. While the lounge area looks nice, the dining area is the true ambiance gem. Private leather booths, beautiful huge chandeliers, and mood lighting, all contribute to a wonderful atmosphere for eating. We like to eat early, and Rudy's offers a wonderful selection on their early bird special from 4-5:30 p.m. Included, is your beverage,, warm roll, salad or soup, main dish, vegetable, and potato. We were able to order an appetizer and still come out ahead of our expected dining expenditure. The Caesar salad was very plain, but my husbands soup looked lovely. The food was hot and tasty, the service impeccable, and we left needing to unbutton our pants on the way home. We have decided this is our new favorite place and due to the early bird specials, affordable. Price range for early bird: $7-$10-AWESOME

Finding the Joy: Food can be SO good and so worth the price, at times. We love you Rudy's!

Church Etiquette and My Children

Since it is Sunday, I thought I would write a little about my children's church etiquette. Over the years, this has varied like the personalities of each one of my 5 boys. I've had the sleeper, the color book kid, the kid who loved the daycare/school program, and now, the kid who just won't go to church. Well, that's not entirely true. This last child has now been attending the service for about 2 months, due to being armed with a bag of crackers, bottle of water, and an army of guys. But prior, I don't think I went to church for about 8 months because frankly, it was just too distracting. Not only did I feel a little sorry for anybody who was unfortunate enough to be sitting within the same 30 seat radius, but I felt sorry for myself. It would start about 2 blocks away from the church when he would notice the roof of the building. The crying and screaming "NO!" would commence. He would cling to his booster chair as I would be pulling on his legs and trying to be cordial and greet others as they walked by, smiling all the while. My husband or I would then hoist him over our shoulder and carry him in. Amongst crying, grabbing, latching on, and screaming at the daycare workers, we would try to soothe him and encourage happy participation in his age-appropriate program. He didn't buy it. The other boys caught on soon enough and all were asking if they could skip out of their classes. I decided home church would be in order till they graduated from high school. Well, we have once again ventured out to worship in public. I hope everyone can take pity on us and be understanding when my child wails out during a meaningful prayer or passes gas during the sermon. After all, at least we got him in there.

Finding the Joy: It always feels good to get an understanding look from someone who's been there.

Men Can Blog Here, Too

Today, I went into church and was pleased to find that a few people had noticed the email I sent about this blog and had checked on it. I was then teased by a couple of guys whom I consider handsome and intelligent (brownie points) that they didn't think they could subscribe to this blog. I am writing to inform any of you in the Y chromosome group that you are VERY welcome to visit the blog and add your opinions. Your wives will certainly like the blog, but we will be touching on topics such as raising children, submission in a marriage (what's that?), and being real in relationships while living in today's world. You might have an opinion, I know my husband always gives his even if its unsolicited. A matter of fact, he just stated he wants to be an author on this site. Stallion (my husband Heath) likes to pretend we live in the era of Little House on the Prairie and he is Charles offering all this sound advice to the rest of us, the Ingals minions. That must make me Carol in this scenario and I am not sure I fit that part. I'm probably closer to Mrs. Olsen. Anyway, consider this a formal invitation. You can now belong to an elite group of people striving to live a blessed and joyful life. RSVP

Dining Out: Experience in Appleton with Mexican Food

For my husband and I, dining out is a treat. I assume that in this economy most people share this sentiment. We have the added pleasure of trying to enjoy the experience while in the company of at least one of our 5 boys. If we are fortunate enough that the child has brought enough diversionary activities and is busy dunking one of his action figures in the salsa or water that's provided, my husband and I can enjoy stimulating conversation revolving around what we are going to do about the children's' issues. Yesterday was such an outing.

Entering Sergio's, we realize that we are one of maybe 4 other small groups that are there to enjoy lunch. It smells good and we are hopeful that the meal will satisfy. I order a taco plate, my husband orders the burrito plate. Close to 45 minutes later, our food finally arrives and I wish I had filled up on the Diet Pepsi and chips/salsa that were provided. I didn't realize how much refried beans could resemble a pile of cooled lava (or dog poop). They were unappetizing, needless to say. The taco was swimming in a pool of its own oil and the meat overcooked and dry. My husband was given the generic line, "don't touch your plate as it is very hot." (I always feel like saying-"you mean like this?" and grabbing it and freaking out.) Our waitress made a hasty exit and we took a bite. My husband said "Amazing. I didn't think the plate could be so hot and my burrito still be cold." I was still looking for my taco amongst the oil and attempting to excavate my black beans. Life is too short and this was SO not worth the calories, so I ate more chips and salsa. In the end, our waitress and checkout service was very nice, but the cook needed to go back to school. Dining out shouldn't be this disappointing. Money back, please.

Finding the joy: At least I didn't eat a lot of calories during this meal

It's All In the Name

Welcome to this blog. Now, you may wonder what the content will consist of and how this will be relevant to you. I want to let you know that I think you will be pleasantly surprised at how entertaining our lives can be. I feel that most people live the life that I do, but fail to find the humor in their surroundings because they get caught up in all the mundane tasks that their schedules revolve around. Just so you know, joy can be found and blessings can be realized. Humor can also be attained by comparing our lives to that of others, and realizing how very normal we are. Ladies Lessons on Living will be just that; A blog offering tips on surviving within a budget, how to make your house into a home that you and your family love to be in, suggestions for travel and dining out (even with children), and funny stories about what goes on in between. Tina and I feel we have great ideas to offer and in turn, please share your lives with us, too. We want to hear about how you live and the funny things your family does. Welcome to Ladies Lessons on Living and visit often. Tell your friends and lets become a network of friends who find the blessings in life and live with true joy.