Oprah Beautiful Goodbye

It's hard to believe our Oprah shows are down to the single digits.  I have thought about hosting an Oprah farewell season party.  If there is anybody on this planet that would host a toast in honor of Oprah, it would be me, right?  (Remember my vlog post inviting her to my 40th birthday?) Well, honestly, I am feeling so sad about her departure, I am not sure I can bring myself to celebrate with even my besties.  Over the past 25 years I've become a woman, wife, mom, and professional all while watching and learning from Oprah.  I feel her send off is very personal moment. I think the only person I could really savor the moment with is my mother and seeing she is in Florida and I am in Connecticut - I think we will just chat about it on the phone.  I am not ruling out a celebration in honor of  of all things "O"  but I think I will spend May 25th with my box of tissues, enjoying the moment, savoring my final Oprah minutes on my favorite comfy chair with a handful of salty pretzels and a glass of diet pepsi, just like I did after school with my mom for years and years -- oh so many years ago. On May 25th I'll be thinking of Gayle, Steadman, Oprah and Sheri with a loving and thankful heart.

Five for Friday

Here are five great things about today:
1. First grade concert this afternoon.
2. Four baseball games today.
3. Painted my toenails
4. Booked a Paperly party.
5. Sun is shining and it's pay day.


Have a good weekend Paper Peeps!

A letter from your Husband...

I can't adequately describe how this letter made me feel.  But I will be printing it and keeping copies in my desk, in my night stand and in my car.... just sayin... 


My favorite Step-Mo's, Shwanda and the Stepmother's Tool Box led me to this little gem.  They are my rock stars of the Step-Mo world.   If you need a Step-Mo boost - read on... print.... and save forever.


Click here for the letter

Pink for Pink Slips...

I feel like I am "waiting for a bus."  It may be my upcoming special fundraiser for work or my husbands pink slip....

Well I am being dramatic, sort of -- but the World's Greatest Husband text me this morning .. I am wearing my pink shirt for my pink slip.  Apparently the Governor who I have gushed support for and changed my profile picture on Facebook with -  may now be laying off 5,000 or so State workers.  I still stand by my original post that I am willing to support his shared sacrifice budget philosophy but honestly I am saying some serious Hail Mary's that this lay off doesn't impact my family in a serious dramatic way.    I am hopeful that the union negotiations will produce a reasonable package that most can live with. In the meantime, the World's Greatest Husband only has one pink shirt so if I take it to the cleaners... maybe the "pink" slip" won't come...

Happy Mother's Day!

Hello Dear Mothers,
I am really getting sappy in my old age.  I hate to admit it, but last night while watching Julia Roberts' Mother's Day Tribute on OWN I sat with a box of tissues trying to catch my breathe.  Honestly, what brought me to a full blown sob, was the Walmart/Own commercial that paid tribute to the step-mo.  I am a sap.  Visit Own extraordinary mom's tribute to Moms to see the advertisement.

And... just because I am in a Mother's Day tribute sort of mood... here is my favorite !!!!Kelly Corrigan's lovely speech about the love, friendship and the special bond among women.  I've posted this before but I want YOU - my favorite Paper Mom readers and friends to feel the special love that this video brings.  Happy Mother's Day!

Pioneer Woman Writes a Little Gem about Love

Ree Drumond is my hero.  I simply love the Pioneer Woman.  If you haven’t stopped by her blog click here now www.thepioneerwoman.com.  I recently finished her new book,  Black Heels to Tractor Wheels and loved it.  Simply stated, it made me love my “World’s Greatest Husband” even more!  I am a sucker for a good love story.  I am a romantic and what I love about this book is…. Ree is too!  She fell head over her black heels for her real life cowboy, Marlboro Man.  It wasn’t all hugs and kisses, well actually... there were a lot of hugs and kisses, but their love story is real and deep and inspiring.  The book made me reaffirm my belief in simple love and made me realize that love no matter how intense comes with serious threads of compromise.  Black Heels to Tractor Wheels… she is a brave, brave hero in many ways.  Being a Library girl I must admit there aren’t many books that I long to own, but this love story is one that needs to live on my bookshelf. 

If you need a happy heart, spring in your step, sparkle in your eye sort of read…. Pick up a copy.  It made me feel warm and content.  

Rick Springfield and a Poor Choice...

Just a few comments....
So disappointed to learn that my boy, Rick Springfield was pulled over for a DUI.   His shows are often celebrated with a little vino but seriously, Rick my love, my favorite singer of all time.... sixty one and DUI?  It would be irresponsible of me not to say, I am disappointed and sad that this has happened.  Poor choice lover boy.  I am embarrassed that my kids may have heard this news knowing their mommy worships you.  Now, make it up to me by scheduling a Connecticut show.... it's been awhile since we've had a chance to visit.  But ladies... let's be honest even the mug shot is depicts a cutie patootie. Rick, stop polluting your hot bod.

And on a happier note... Happy 15th Anniversary to my Friend and her dear husband.  We've been friends for more than 20 years now and have seen one another grow up.  I am so happy for you.  You've always been "That couple" who has it done it right.  I am proud of you and so happy that your love is strong.  I hope you are enjoying your special "sunny" day! 

Have a good day peeps!

Weddings and Mom

The royal wedding was like a mini vacation.  What a treat… the dress, the kiss, another kiss, another dress, hope, love, dreams… it was all the things that a modern day fairy tale are made of.  Although weddings are made of man and wife, I had a personal moment that made me realize the special love that only a mother can provide… and since weddings are on our mind and Mother’s Day is just about here… I’ll share my mother moment.

I spoke of the dress and details to my girls, the other moms and the softball field and my co-workers.   We had open hearts, big eyes and dramatic pause when we spoke of the real life princess.  We loved William and his care for his girl, Kate.  But really it wasn’t until I was able to "dish the details" with my Mom, then the royal wedding was complete.    Somehow speaking with my mom, my friend, my rock about the perfect dress, the sweet loving glances and comments between the royal couple and “oh how we loved the second dress” did the royal wedding become a meaningful event.   My mom is the one woman on this earth that gets it me --- with a word or a full length ramble, a glance or a complete stare.  She has always been able to read my mind and my heart.  I loved talking wedding with her but honestly, I love talking anything with her.  

It’s Mother’s Day week and we should celebrate!

A New Low

Motherhood hit a new low at 7:23 this morning.  I had to use a hair dryer to dry my daughters school shirt.  Yep, that shiny new dryer can't get here fast enough.... If you are looking for me this weekend, I'll be in the basement catching up on the laundry.

five for Friday

As I stood in the pouring rain watching my kids march around the field for opening day of little league, it dawned on me that I didn't post Five for Friday... so here are five great things about today... Saturday style.

1. Our older kids return tonight.  I can't wait to hear all about their Disney adventures.  I think I will greet them with a kiss, hug and a reminder that YES, they will be going to school on Monday.
2. Let the season officially begin... yes, it's baseball and softball people.  Get ready, the party starts now.
3. Our dryer broke this morning...  not a great thing but it will lead to a great thing if we can figure out a way to buy a new super duper one!
4. Husband offered to go to the laundromat today.
5. One more page to complete my nieces scrapbook!  It's taken a year to do... 

It's Saturday, it's raining, vacation is winding down, the dryer broke, Wal-Mart sold out of egg dye, Easter is tomorrow and the bunny hasn't shopped yet, It's 40 degrees out and I am tired because our cub scout has  been up in the middle of the last three nights...  But Paper Peeps, chin up, life is good, my husband is at the laundromat! He obviously knew my breaking point.  I don't call him the World's Greatest for nothing.  Heres to a great Saturday and a peaceful and blessed Easter day!  Happy Easter Paper Peeps.

Paper Mom Meets the Governor - A Fun Day!

Well yesterday was a BIG day!  Remember a while back when I posted about my affection for Governor Dannel Malloy?  Well “his people” contacted “my people” and today we were able to visit with the Governor himself.  It was a thrill and a memory for both me, the World’s Greatest Husband and three out of five kids.  But let’s not kid ourselves; I was the one with stars in my eyes.  Our oldest two missed all the action because they are making big memories with Mickey Mouse as they march in a few parades where the weather is much warmer.

 So our little trip started off like any special family event that “us moms” know all too well… a few arguments about what to wear, what not to wear and early morning showers for all. Despite the sassiness of two tweens we did manage to get out the door and arrived early on dear Dannel’s doorstep.  I felt sort of like royalty when the front desk called up to the Governor’s office to announce our arrival.  Minutes later we were all sitting and chatting like old friends.  He was warm, interested and sweetly trying to draw out our three shell shocked kids.  Our cub scout was the most comfortable.  Which by the way confirms my motherly instinct that my kid may actually be the governor one day!

A picture here, a picture there… and out the door we go. 

On our way out we were greeted by Governor Malloy’s right hand man, Roy Ochiogrosso he clearly stated he is a Paper Mom fan (at least for the five minutes he read my post.)  At this point I felt a little woozy from the whole experience and my tendency to rattle on (and on) seemed to take shape.  Silly, silly Paper Mom, I really need to learn how to shut up sometimes.  He was kind and also made the kids feel like rock stars.

The icing on the cake? This is where the story gets good!

I of course went directly to Wal-Mart to develop my photographs.  I hemmed and hawed, should I be so bold to print a 5x7 of me and the Governor for my desk? After some debating in my head, I went for it and ordered 1 – 5x7.  When the Wal-Mart associate, who called me over by name (you know how I love, love, love good customer service) and said he made a mistake and accidentally printed an 8x10 of me and my husband, I didn’t think much of it.   Many of the photos being printed were of me and the World’s Greatest Husband (this print job included photos from Christmas through today).  He then proceeded to open up the folder and show me the mistake.  I blurted out… that’s not my husband, that’s the Governor!  His reply? I thought he looked familiar.   

It's School Vacation Week

Staring at the blank screen knowing this is the week to blog but not knowing what to blog about.  It’s not like my life isn’t full of humorous moments or crazy tales…. 

But, what to write? 

I’ll start with a list of my top ten items that I would do if this school vacation week wasn’t about carting around kids, coming up with kid friendly activities and cleaning the house….

1.  I would go to the outlets from 9am to 9pm after claiming my winning lotto ticket!
2.  I would drink wine as I take a bubble bath and read a book.
3.   I would stay in my pajamas all day and paper craft.
4.  I would drive to Massachusetts visit the Vera Bradley outlet and hit every paper specialty store between here and there.
5.  No cooking, no dishes, no laundry.
6.  I would spend an entire day on the internet, reading blogs, reading crafty posts and spending a lot of time on Martha Stewart, Food Network and  the Lands End websites
7.   Nap, channel surf and in general be a slacker.
8. Manicures, pedicures, massages and a “re-do” on my “too dark” hair color would all make for a good day
9. Purchase and sleep in new pajamas .
10.  Walk in the sun with Rick blasting in my ear

So in the scheme of things, all minor luxuries but luxuries I don’t participate in very often…. I am not complaining, life is good and I am glad to have a break of our traditional routine.  A girl can always dream, right?  Have a good day.

Five for Friday

Five for Friday - Here are Five Great Things about Today:
1. Vacation starts today!
2. It has been a very, very, very busy week.  Last night our teenagers at dinner at 10:30PM, and I am not kidding!  So Friday has never felt so good...  although the calendar is full for the next vacation week, it will help to have time away from work.  My brain needs a break.  My focus needs to be refueled.  
3. My kids and his kids are gone for the next 48 hours.  That comes at the exact right moment because after this week, I am not sure of the World's Greatest Husband's name..... 
4. Going to the movies this weekend.... 
5. Spent the morning with my step daughter.  She is sick.  Even though the circumstance wasn't fun our time together was nice.  We giggled and snuggled until her mom came to take her to the pediatrician. 
6. BONUS:  Finishing a special scrapbook for my beautiful little niece.


Have a good weekend paper peeps.... 

The obvious...

Sometimes the obvious is not so obvious....
While shopping this weekend I stumbled upon a deal that couldn't be beat... men's extra long ties for $6 at JCPenney.  The World's Greatest Husband insists on an "extra long tie." Although the selection isn't as good in the extra long tie market and the prices are higher... I am always hopeful.  The clearance ties were all solid silks, see what I mean? variety and style gets lost in the extra long tie arena no snazzy patterns.  So fuschia, teal or purple are my choices.  I stood there for 20 minutes debating.... bright ties, solid ties, cheap ties.  I decided on the purple, which was the deepest and less bright of the three.  I felt unsure, uneasy and a bit tentative when unveiling my super bargain.  Only to my surprise and delight, the World's Greatest Husband announces...
Oooh, my school colors... perfect.
Hahahah!  I never thought of the fact that the man is an administrator in a school where the color is PURPLE!  Perfect for spirit day, game day and graduation..... sometimes the obvious is not so obvious and when the obvious is on clearance, all the better!
Happy Monday Paper Peeps!

Five for Friday

Five Great Things about Today!

1. It's Friday! It's Friday! It's Friday!
2. Picked up some great books at our library book sale.  Spent $10 and got a huge armful of books.
3. While at the Library I also picked up some books I had reserved from other libraries.  I am so excited to read these books! Entertaining, craft and decorating books seem to make me happy. When I reserve from other libraries, I call it "shopping"  it reminds me of when I surf amazon but it's FREE!  
4. Bought a little easter tree to hang some paperly tags, stickers and calling cards on.  I think this will offer the perfect little display for those personalized pretties!  
5. It's warm outside.  

Another author to love...

I just finished reading Playdate by Thelma Adams.  I heard about this book while listening to Faith Middleton on NPR.  She knows how to pick em!

Ok ladies… I started reading while waiting for my 16 year old son to finish up a physical therapy appointment and I think I was blushing.  I kept the book tight on my lap, not to show a soul the cover.  I started to sweat a little… maybe because my kid was nearby or maybe because I felt like it wasn’t lady like to be reading such details in the middle of a busy waiting room?  Yep, this book has a few scenes that made me feel like a college girl again.  When I shared the first chapter (yes, I said first chapter!) with the World’s Greatest Husband he said, “Hmm maybe you should read to me at bedtime”  I must admit, he made me chuckle with that one!

Anyway, the book was well done.  It was a quick read full of drama and tantric sex.  I enjoyed this little escape and other than not wanting to share the book cover with my five kids, I am happy to encourage you to grab a copy and get lost in a little house wives or should I say house husbands….. drama.   More importantly you can dive into a story that examines modern day parenting while exploring the balancing act of marriage, family, work and self, truly a balancing act that we all struggle with.  You can follow Thelma Adams on Facebook and Twitter.  

Blog, blog, blog... I need my blog...to keep me sane.

It's Monday at 8:17am.  It feels like Wednesday 9:30pm.  I've done more than what should be legally allowed for a Monday morning!


I have many posts floating in my head.... now if I could just carve out a few minutes this week to blog about:


Oprah - Did you watch Master Class?  seriously, this woman brings goosebumps to my soul every single time I pay attention to her.  I wanted to take notes.... lucky for me I have it on my DVR.


Grey's Anatomy  - Did you watch the music video episode.  What were they thinking?  I watched because that is what I do but it seemed sort of silly.  Callie has a nice voice and I thought she looked amazing.  I did burst into sobbing crying at one point.  I am not kidding, it sort of shocked me... but they sang a song that made me think of an old friend and it was sort of too much for me to handle.  So I guess they did ok if the episode evoked that much emotion out of me... but I still vote for silly.


And the post I know you are waiting for.... 
We made the high school baseball team and softball team.  Softball for little girls starts this week and baseball for the cub scout starts on Sat.  Yep, it's my favorite season.  I think just the thought of spring makes me tense and moody.  Get ready for those fun, stressful posts... I've already had one breakdown.  


Ok Paper Peeps, have a good week.  check back soon.  I hope to blog to keep me sane this week.

Five for Friday

Five great things about today...
1.  School basket fundraiser tonight - really hoping I win a Keurig for the office.
2. cub scout fun tomorrow... and 50 degrees to boot!
3. I grocery shopped at the store... no online order.  stressful but completed.
4. thinking about relay for life... what do you think? want to be on a team together?
5. Got a great party idea brewing for April....

Have a good weekend....

Step-Mo the constant challenge...

I took note of a family across the way at church this week.  They had six kids.  Knowing how hard life is with many children I prayed for them.  I also went to a weird place… That woman birthed those six babies… OMG!

As a Step-Mo I always describe our family with the qualifier… we are a blended family.  I sometimes even say, I didn’t give birth to all five.  It is always a tad uncomfortable when you have to explain "the situation".  99% of the population gets it and 50% of the population is right there living it with me.  Somehow I feel the need to let folks know I didn’t have three of those babies slide out of my vagina.  But  I guess I want the world to also know that just because I didn’t give them life I certainly support it, maintain it and sacrifice a ton for it, as I do for my husband and my two biological kids. I’ve posted about being a Step-Mo so many times.  It is such an interesting role and as a woman who has a brain, a job and a supportive husband, I still struggle with how to handle it all.  Our life moves at an amazing pace and there are days when I want to stop this rollercoaster and scream.   I feel for the step-mo’s who struggle with disrespectful kids, biological mothers who butt in and husbands who are caught in the middle. I know there are many other families that are engaged in a constant struggle.  We have our share of relatively small struggles and I think we’ve managed to strike a balance with I am not the mom, I am the mom, I look like a mom, I act like a mom, I know I certainly can yell like a mom…

So why do I feel a need to qualify my family situation with that statement… blended family?  The World’s Greatest Husband and I end each day with a recap of our worries and frustrations as they relate to each and every one of our five kids.   We struggle to afford each kid and their activities. When they are sick we share the responsibility of missing work.  I try to create menus that satisfy the picky eaters that sit at our dining room table, I taxi drive, I pick up, drop off and visit mom’s house more times in a week than I ever care to count…. So why isn’t the statement simply… Our five kids… I have five kids…. PS - Add to the mix, we don’t even have the traditional every Thursday night and every other weekend custody situation!  We share the week. I put them on the bus 3 out of five school mornings.  I am not saying all this for you the reader… I am saying this for me the writer…. This mental struggle I fight must end!  I need to STEP-MO-IT-UP and proudly state… I have five kids… no qualifiers… no birthing statements….I guess there will always be situations where I will explain but next time that Walmart cashier casually asks… how many kids do you have? I am absolutely, proudly stating - - -  five. 

Baby steps, people….baby steps.  

That damn Snow White and Cinderella... They set the stage for the Step-Mo long ago... making my job a heck of a lot harder... 

five for Friday

Five great things about today...

Grant finished!
I plan on crafting this weekend.
Sitting quietly - breathing deeply - thinking positively
Wearing new jeans
Got a new book (read the first chapter while waiting for our 16 year old at the doctor's office, I have to admit... I was blushing reading this hot, fun, smut- in a public place-OMG- can't wait to get back to it.)

Happy Weekend...

We didn't win....

I had two laughs yesterday...
1.  With mega millions at 224 million I told my kids, if we win... I will buy you anything you want tomorrow.  They were simple... a cell phone and a lap top, easy peasy....  My daughter chimed in, do we have to go to school?  I said no, if we win, you can take tomorrow off but then it's back to normal, back to school.  She was thrilled and said, "Deal!"


2. Then while we were waiting for our cub scout to finish gymnastics... two ten year old boys introduced themselves to one another.... Hi my name is Dyson, like the vacuum and the other,  Hi, I'm Sage like the herb.  Singly their names aren't odd but the moment had me rolling in the waiting room!  OK, Maybe you had to be there.

Precious Mommy / Daughter Time...

I Heart Jorgensen…

On Thursday I had a date night with my 10 year old daughter.  This was special for many different reasons… 

1. We have 5 kids so a night alone with one of them is special, they feel like rock stars.  

2.  We planned to go to Friendly’s for dinner.  I saved my weight watchers points all day so I could eat guilt free.  

3.  My daughter is a fabulous singer with no self-confidence.  She can belt it out but has no desire to perform in front of others.  I thought the whole Jorgensen experience would open up her heart to the thrill of performance.  

4.  I wanted her to see theater, art, culture.  

5. I played up our time away together in a super big way.  I made the venue, the experience and our alone time BIG, BIG, BIG!

So all in all Jorgensen was the perfect venue for us to have a special Mommy/Daughter date. …. Until we pulled into the parking lot and in her smarty pants sort of way she says “Mom, I’ve been here before, for a school field trip”

Ok, so it changed things slightly but my love for Jorgensen was only intensified as I realized they market their venue to my children’s schools.  That’s good business because the theater is something to see! 

So check out their calendar of events.  It looks amazing.   You may see Papermom and her crew at Aga-Boom, that show sounds like a great time!

Proving his Love

The other day the World's Greatest Husband texted me with a few comments that made me wonder....
That doesn't sound like my husband.... 
did someone steal his phone? 
I knew it was him but was giggly and texted... "Who are you and what did you do with my husband"  
He responded with "It's me and I'll prove it."
I have to admit I anxiously awaited his proof! 
A few minutes later he sent this..... 
<------>
The World's Greatest and I often point our fingers outward when we tell one another just how much we love one another.... you see, when you point your fingers it means it goes on forever!  
I love that guy and his special text message.
It's good to be in love.

Five for Friday

It's Friday and here are my five great things about today...
1. Hello 70 degree day..... I've been waiting for you!
2. Party planning central here.... Seven year old Magic Tree House Party happening Sunday!
3. Had a fabulous time at Jorgensen last night.  I'll blog about that mommy daughter night out later....
4. Report cards galore... so lucky to have smart, bright babies...
5. A day off to organize party fun.

Wishing you happiness on this warm, bright day!

Proud of our cub scout

Today my little cub scout snuggled in bed with me before our crazy day started.  We watched the first few minutes of our favorite, The Today Show.  Of course the headline was all about Japan.  My little guy said.... "I wish I could send them like... $144 dollars."  I asked, why?  he said, "They need help, maybe they could buy a house"  My son continuously makes me smile (and yes, scream too) he has a good soul and still has innocence that warms my heart.  


While speaking with my mom last night she mentioned that she often wants to comment on the blog, honestly somedays I think she is my only reader, well except when I blog about "The Gov."  My mom isn't quite sure how to make that comment widget work so I will comment for her... my mom would simply say "I love how the little boy thinks, I like the way his brain works"  and I would have to agree with her... he is my sweet, kind cub scout- unless he is chasing his three sisters...

Paper Mom, Politics and Birthday Parties

Well after a wild weekend of pretending to be a political blogger, it feels good to be back in my cozy place blogging about life the way I know and love it.  I am so appreciative of the clicks and am hopeful I have attracted a few new readers but front line “political blogger” really isn’t my style.  I am happy to support our governor (like the headline reads “Woman calls Malloy sweet Dannel and thinks she may be in love”) but being a political blogger takes way more energy than being a Paper Mom.   I did learn a few things from my power post…. It is amazing to see social media work.  It is a powerful tool that is so connected… politicians, corporations and non profits should take note of the opportunities to grow because apparently  it only takes a few posts or comments  to spread through networks  and WHAMMO there is a platform for opinions, purchases, and endorsements!  I guess I knew this all along but watching my click ticker rise and rise with my post proved to me that it is serious business when 3.9 million mom bloggers are projected to generate 26 million dollars. I am of the social variety, the non-money-making blogger.  It’s a hobby, it is fun and it’s a great way to connect with other 40 and fabulous moms trying to make their way.

So Paper mom is back and I am in party mode! Our Little cub scout turns seven and our "Magic Tree House" party is in full swing…. 20 little classmates are expected  here to do crafts, fun, games, cake and presents  for 90 minutes on Sunday afternoon!  Our son is soooo excited and I have to admit, I am pretty excited too.  But like any good mother, I am totally holding it all over his head this week… I’ve used  the “I’ll cancel your party” line with every  hint of uncooperative behavior.  With those sort of spirited (and loving) threats, It should be smooth sailing this week as we prepare for our big celebration.  By the way….. any Magic Tree House party crafts, games, decorations or activities that you can offer me are appreciated… and if you want to come over and clean the house, that's helpful too! 


Paper love going out to my peeps... 

For all the mothers out there...

...and on a lighter note...I love this video!
Happy International Women's Day! (a few days late)


Special thanks to Kind over Matter for posting this.  Now, paper peeps...Pass it on to the special women in your life who are working hard to build a fabulous life... 

It's Friday...

It's Friday so that means.... Five for Friday..
Here are five great things about today.
1. Feeling giddy over the fact that yesterday's post has generated so many Paper Mom hits!
2. Thrilled that the Governor's Office read my post :)
3. Well, if your visiting because of that post, click on over to Facebook or Twitter so you can follow Paper Mom and get Paper Mom updates... share the love - Paper Peeps!
4. A fifty degree weekend makes me smile
5. Didn't read yesterday's post? here is a link..  http://papermom.blogspot.com/2011/03/paper-mom-votes-for-malloy.html


Happy Weekend!

Paper Mom votes for Malloy!

So as you know, I am not a political blogger.  I write about being a mom and step mo to five great kids, and lover to one World’s Greatest Husband.  I blog, I vent, I endorse great books and share little nuggets of life that make me love being a woman, wife, mom and professional.  Truth is… I am a closet political news junkie. Ah, that admission felt good….

Last night I attended Governor Malloy's town hall meeting on the State’s budget.  This was momma’s night out, I attended with my boss so I had to keep it together but seriously…. It was like a trip to the candy store for this closet political paper mom.

So here are my thoughts… I support our governor. Actually,  I sort of think I am in love with him.  No, not in a stupid wacky way, the World’s Greatest Husband is my guy but...  I loved watching the governor address the crowd.  His command of the situation, his kindness, his humbleness, his thoughtful approach, his wit, and his tie selection all made me sit up and take note.  Let’s be honest, who the heck wants this man’s job?  NO ONE - because it is not easy!  Hard times, tough decisions, it simply doesn’t add up to make any sense…. As I settle into 40 and fabulous I become more aware of the fact that we will never make everyone happy.   And boy is that the truth with that town hall crowd.  But a life with respect, dignity and compassion always wins.  That is what I see in our dear governor.  His style and grace won me over in the moment, the dollars and cents, the cuts, the taxes it is all tough stuff but honestly, this mess didn’t happen in a day…. this mess hasn’t been attacked with any new brave decisions until now.  I am not sure I agree with it all but I do respect the man, the position and am willing to try something new.  I want attractive jobs moving into this state and my town.  I want nonprofits to have the best chance when it comes to helping those who need their services.   I want my children to live, work and play in our great state and I want higher education to be a priority.  I believe in State Higher Education as a woman who earned both her Master’s and Bachelor’s from the State System.  So there you have it… my political agenda.  Maybe I should run?

So with all that being said… I hope my sweet Dannel doesn’t let me down.  I am in his corner and am willing to support his budget today.

When seeing the governor on the morning news with the town hall recap I asked my 7 year old if he knew who that was on TV.  He proudly said “Dan Malloy” He followed that up with, it would be cool if he came to my birthday party.    So I think I have a little politician in the making… 

It's Monday

It's Monday...
This is the first time in more than a week that every kid got on the bus attending school.  It is the first time since last Tuesday that I have put on panty hose and jewelry.  We are all on the mend, slow but sure.

I had to giggle this weekend, so many of my friends commented on hair dye this weekend... on facebook, twitter or in line picking the kids up from Art it seemed to be the topic of choice.  I guess we are of a certain age where hair dye means something critical.... fabulous and forty comes with a price of about 7.99 every 5 weeks.

Have a happy Monday.

Five for Friday

Five Great things about today....

1.  Grocery shopping online is truly a gift.
2. Cub scouts is cancelled.  (I know that one sounds mean spirited, but I am glad to have no real plan for the evening - I am still sick)
3. Daughter returned to school after a two day down for the count illness.
4. I am a winner to the Jorgensen AGAIN!!! Paper Peeps... please follow them on facebook and twitter and you will win too.... a two time winner is sort of embarrassing but - a night out with the World's Greatest Husband... for free? I'll TAKE IT!!!! Yippee! Yippee!
5. I had the dreaded money date with husband - before work today.... now this is an unusual time for our "money dates"  but we did get it out of the way and that is a good thing.... it didn't end the way we like our money dates to end but then again... I am sick as a dog and he had to get to his job....

Hey favorite Paper Mom readers - Have a great weekend, enjoy the warmer temps tomorrow and check back soon - some exciting things are brewing on the Paper Mom site.... ok, I'll tell you... A VLOG!  I just need to get my voice back, color in my cheeks and find my microphone...

Puke March 2010 & Puke March 2011

Mama Kat’s recent writing prompt:

What were you writing about last year at this time and what has changed?

 I was intrigued so I took a glimpse back…. I was blogging about puke.  Do you remember the post where I thought I was going to die with multiple child vomiting? I will never forget that illness!  I mentioned that to my husband….”World’s Greatest Husband, do you remember last year’s puke fest?  Yep, should have never mentioned it because hours later I was up with my ten year old worshipping the porcelain goddess…together once again.   She puked every 20 minutes until about 3:30 am then every 40 minutes until 8:15 am.  We didn’t sleep.  At one point we were both fighting tears.    I have been fighting illness all week so with no sleep, I certainly have crossed over… sick, achy, tired, sore throat, cough and temperature and my doctor is off today and I have a grant due tomorrow.  My daughter is better, the vomit turned to a temperature and now she has perked up and ate lunch…. She’s on her way to school tomorrow. So, you can all relate to the fact that moms can’t get sick, it doesn’t work, it’s not allowed, it messes everything up.   So next time Mama Kat tells me to look back and see what I was blogging about, I may think twice for I believe I jinxed myself on this one…. Why couldn’t it have been a post about winning the lottery.  Nope, not much has changed around here....

Celebrating my Husband's Birthday

Today is the World’s Greatest Husband’s birthday.  We had the most amazing birthday celebration and I’ve been dying to blog about it.  First, did you know that we have had the past three weekends to ourselves? This is unheard of… a miracle, truly a dream come true. 

The birthday celebration started with winning FREE tickets to the Jorgensen to see the Canadian Tenors.  Yes, I said free and I said the Canadian Tenors.  Do you know those cutie patoodie’s?  The Jorgensen is beautiful, I recommend that you friend them on facebook and twitter and maybe you can score yourself some freebies too!  It was a treat…. So when I announced our winnings to the World’s Greatest Husband he said he had a surprise for me… a dinner surprise… not a bad deal… free birthday tix and the birthday boy buys dinner too!  I keep telling you he is the World’s Greatest, right?

So peeps, the Still River Café in Eastford is a real gem.  Hidden in the middle of nowhere, the place will surely delight.   The food was seriously amazing, the service was top notch and the atmosphere was clean, crisp and comfortable.  I felt like I wanted to move in and cozy up for at least a few more meals, but we had a show to get to…  I can’t wait to go back.  Next time it will be for a relaxing dinner without the rush to get out the door… but if there was ever a show worth getting out the door to…. It would be the Canadian Tenors… those guys brought me to another place on earth.  They made me take a break, breath in my husband, close my eyes and simply be….  I love when music fills your soul.  The power of their voices and the strength that they brought to the auditorium was enough to make me feel like the luckiest woman on earth. 

The group sang two songs that deserve comment.  The first… instrument of peace.  My husband and I share a prayer.  Yes, we share a prayer.  It is written on prayer card on our closet shelf.  I start most mornings with it.  There was a time that every mass ended with it…Prayer of Peace Saint Francis of Assisi.  Well the Canadian tenors performed our prayer in song and it meant a great deal to me…. and I swear I would have jumped my husband right then and there in the aisle if we were alone…  imagine that one… to a prayer…. Somehow it seems an appropriate way to celebrate our bond.  I love that guy and am so grateful that we are able to share our love. 

The other song worth mentioning was Forever Young by Bob Dillon.    I thought of my children when this song was performed.  I’ve been so busy lately.  I’ve taken home a lot of work these past few weeks, I’ve spent hours on the computer, I’ve lost my way in a few moments and in the moment of that song, I came to appreciate the innocence of my kids…. They are my most important project, they deserve a mom who is present.  I figure I have about two weeks before the hustle and bustle of our life with five kids gets kicked up a few notches, it’s baseball and softball season and you know how I love that…. So I have lots of re-grouping to do before that season is in full swing.  It’s crazy that we move and live at this ridiculous pace.  I can’t do it all and the quicker I realize that… the better off I’ll be.   Lucky for me I have a supportive, kind and helpful World’s Greatest Birthday Husband to work with me.

A birthday weekend to remember…. And those are just parts I can share (wink, wink) 

Five for Friday

Here are five great things about today...
1. Why is it that some Fridays are easy peasy and some Fridays it is a bit harder to find those five great things....
2. I had to buy some craft supplies for cub scouts tonight and found them on my first stop which is a gift....I thought for sure I would be driving all around town.
3. Husbands birthday weekend celebration.... We are going to see the Canadian Tenors.... I love them...
4. snow is melting but I am sure our basement will be flooded by 8pm tonight.
5. Great friends have posted Paper Mom to their facebook accounts, I appreciate your support.  THANK YOU!

One Proud Momma

Sometimes all aligns in life...
Yesterday my little girl spoke in front of City Council in support of "Loving her Library."
 It was brief but for ten years old, I think she is well on her way to a successful career as a lobbyist.
&
My little guy got a BUG award for citizenship (not to brag but its his 3rd one!)  The sky is the limit for the little cub scout.


I'll simply count my blessings before this day starts... you never know what it will bring.
Have a good day!

The End, Goodnight

Sometimes our bedtime stories say it all.
My little guy is into the Magic Tree House Series by Mary Pope Osborne.  He thinks it is really cool when we read them fast.  Somehow the length of the story means something.  Last night we read an entire book!  Night of the Ninjas.  Sometimes those ol' Ninjas can teach a lesson.  I thought I would pass it along from the Master Ninja to you, my favorite Paper Mom readers....
"Remember," the master said, "keep a kind heart."

Shrimp, Martinis and Loving...

The World’s Greatest Husband and I stayed in on Friday night and made Champagne Shrimp Risotto (Bettycrocker.com) and appletinis.  Sometimes staying home is the best thing going.  I love when we chat it up, talk about life, the world, our kids, our jobs, our dreams…  The recipe is easy and guaranteed to bring some loving your way….

Champagne Shrimp Risotto

Prep Time

50

Minutes

Total Time

50

Minutes

Makes

6

servings

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1	lb uncooked medium shrimp in shells, thawed if frozen
2	tablespoons butter or margarine
1	medium onion, thinly sliced
1/2	cup brut champagne, dry white wine or Progresso® chicken broth
1 1/2	cups uncooked Arborio or other short-grain white rice
2	cups Progresso® chicken broth (from 32-oz carton), warmed
1	cup clam juice or water, warmed
2	cups chopped arugula, watercress or spinach
1/3	cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2	teaspoon ground pepper
	Chopped fresh parsley, if desired

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	About Concordance™

1.     Peel shrimp. Make a shallow cut lengthwise down back of each shrimp; wash out vein.

2.     In 12-inch skillet or 4-quart Dutch oven, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion; cook, stirring frequently, until tender. Reduce heat to medium. Add shrimp; cook uncovered about 8 minutes, turning once, until shrimp are pink. Remove shrimp from skillet; keep warm.

3.     Add champagne to onion in skillet; cook until liquid has evaporated. Stir in rice. Cook uncovered over medium heat about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until edges of rice kernels are translucent. In 4-cup glass measuring cup, mix chicken broth and clam juice; pour 1/2 cup mixture over rice. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until liquid is absorbed. Repeat with remaining broth mixture, 1/2 cup at a time, until rice is tender and creamy.

4.     About 5 minutes before risotto is done, stir in shrimp, arugula, cheese and pepper. Sprinkle with parsley before serving.