So, this week we tried to get a picture of all 5 kids in front of the tree. Seemed like a good idea, right? It wasn’t until I saw the photos later that I’d realized they’ve grown so much that all you see is part of a tree sticking up behind their heads. Now, I can see if there were horns or something on their heads, but a tree, not so good.

Rest assured, the full tree is there as well as other Christmas type decorations. Also the mantle, which you might see in upcoming pics. And we do have 5 small lit trees out front that proclaims our willingness to adhere to light decoration norms, yet not quite enough that I’d call it a Christmas “display”.

The 4 1/2 year old put the ornaments on the tree, and I’ve been meaning to rearrange them when she’s asleep, but time always gets the better of me. SO, we have clumps of silver balls all over the tree like segration is alive and well in our home, but rest assured it’s my laziness to not redo an already done tree.

We also did ginger bread houses. Seemed like the festive and correct thing to do this time of year.

Worked out well until I saw my daughters gingerbread woman. Wow, the boobs are predominant! Wishful thinking on her part, or taking the “woman” example of her momma. I’m not sure. Funny though.

It’s so nice to see how the kids relate to the holidays. We focus on family time and down play the whole santa thing. In fact, we’ve never told our children santa is real. We go with the flow and explain that Christmas is for the giving sprit. St. Nick was a good example and we go from there.  It works for us.

Christmas boobs, however, are out of my control. No matter how much you decorate the gingerbread woman.

Hey look, here is a photo of 2 of our children that actually get along! The dynamics in this family is weird. Which children get along with the others is completely subjective.

These two get along more than the others:

Happy siblings

First: you need the red velvet dress (or suit) that matches Santa. Then you need to break the first rule you ever taught your children. Stranger Danger? What?? Not in December!

As much as I wanted to say “You will sit in this fake old man’s lap and smile for 30 seconds” I just couldn’t. I felt like such a hypocrite! After the Liza vs. Easter Bunny fiasco of ’09, I just won’t do this to my kids any longer. (and I get Christmas cards from the mall for it – they support my decision)

Anyway, out of the 2 youngest, Liza is out. She’s um, made that abundantly clear. (That poor easter bunny will never be the same)

So, we took Vivi to her school’s fundraiser of Breakfast with Santa. She caught a glimpse of him as we were sitting down and the anxiety ensued. (My genes, I’m sure)

Notice the pensive look and tight grip on her chair. Yeah, she suspected what was coming. Like any good parents, we let her eat breakfast before offering her as a sacrifice to Satan Santa. Her grandparents were there, her cousins were there. She had a whole support team behind her. Could she do it??

Nooooo! This is as close as we got to Santa, even with her big bad daddy backing her up. If you click to make the picture larger, you’ll even notice her eyes are closed, as if saying, I can’t see you – you aren’t there.

And you know what, that’s fine with me.

Ok, so I was just wishing for that last part! Why is Christmas so freakin hectic! We went to the light show in O’Fallon park and it was pretty cool….

We have a breakfast with Santa coming up, bake offs, cookie exchanges and oh…. and Dave has a side job illustrating a children’s book. I think it’s so cool. We aren’t allowed to “divulge” the books intentions, but damn I want to Dave said he signed a non disclosure agreement. It’s for the preschool crowd, is all you’re getting.  Until it comes out then, I’m going to be ALL about it. It’s a great book.  I wish I’d thought of it.

We had some family pictures taken with the hopes of Christmas pictures, but the younger two, not naming names, Vivi & Liza, weren’t having it. SO, we have some pictures, but some of us are grumpier than others. Also, some of us had to be told to stop holding our penis like it was going to fly away. Not sure what that is about, but whatever.

It was a beautiful day, but have you ever had 5 kids look happy in the exact same direction all at the same time? If so, I applaud you.

The dresses were made by my good friend Susan Sheppard, and she will make them upon request! Her email is sheppardsn@yahoo.com. I highly recommend her, as it wasn’t easy accommodating something for ages 2-10 that was alike. And we all know how much I love to match. (Thank you Susan!!) The dresses are beautiful!

So, our tree is up and 99% of gifts are wrapped. We just need to get all of the “holiday” stuff over with so we can have a Merry Christmas! And oh what a Christmas it will be! Somebody is getting a new bike and somebody is getting a sledgehammer like double edge knife thingy. And it might be the somebody who can’t stop holding his penis. This might be a cure?? 

Anyway, we wish you ALL the merriest of Christmasses!! And the very best new year.

So, we went to Memphis to see Dave’s family over an extended holiday for Thanksgiving. The odd part? I like them all. I do. But I feel so out of my element in big family type situations. I don’t have that. It just feels weird to me but I hope my children grow up loving it and maybe I’ll get into the swing of it as time goes on. Even the dogs come to the family gatherings. Josie had Marley and Shelby to romp around with in the back yard. Seems idilic, right? And it was. Just to me it was…. foreign. I consider myself lucky that my husbands family places such a role on family time. I think this is the multigenerational bond that children need to become self aware adults.

The after dinner games are a treat as well. We do that here. Games are just fun!.

All in all in was a great holiday. I just wish I could get over my preconceived notions and actually be able to relax.

Vivi had a ball, Dave had a ball, and I had a good time. I think that’s a step in the right direction for now. The other kids were at their other parents for this holiday, which should have made it easier. But alas, if there is something to stress over, I will do it.  Jude and Luke were also in Memphis, 5 blocks away actually. Jude asked if he could come over to say hi to the family, but the decision was his mothers, so apparently it was a no go. Not a big surprise. Just sad for the kids. I guess we know who comes first in that family. But, I digress. Our Thanksgiving was wonderful, odd, and entertaining. I actually made myself sick on my own trifel.  It was just too damn good. It was great seeing the southern part of the family. (and I do consider them family, even though they say things like “ya’ll”. ) And I can’t wait to do it again!

Maybe someday I’ll say “ya’all” and mean it! LOL here’s hoping!

Um, Last August. 

Just thought I should mention it…..

“I want to be very clear in calling upon the Egyptian authorities to refrain from any violence against peaceful protestors. The people of Egypt have rights that are universal. That includes the right to peaceful assembly and association, the right to free speech, and the ability to determine their own destiny. These are human rights. And the United States will stand up for them everywhere.”
– Barack Obama, January 28, 2011

So, Why this?? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BjnR7xET7Uo

Why is this happening across the country when we supposedly have the freedom of speech and assembly?

The movement of the 99% is best summemed up here by a guy calling himself “cookie monster”  http://tinyurl.com/6zy5vsm

I will take my older children to this protest. I believe it it worth instilling in them right from wrong.  Of course, I will keep them on the sidelines in case  the police break out the pepper spray. I don’t want them to experience that. But, I do want them to feel a part of something. Something good, that changes of America as we know it,hopefully.

We are the 99%. And unless you invented something awesome…. You are too. Stand up for yourself. Stand up for those who can’t.

So, Are you planning a night out on a Monday? This list will help if you’re towing the littles along…..

Adam’s Rib Barbeque – Kids 10 and under eat free at Adam’s Rib Barbeque (KS) on Mondays. This is valid for dine-in only and is good for one meal off the kids’ menu.

Applebees – At Applebees kids eat for free on Mondays. There is 1 free kids’ meal for each adult entree purchase. Additional kids are $1.00. The kids’ menu at Applebees includes chicken fingers, cheeseburger, grilled cheese sandwich and macaroni & cheese. Not all locations offer this deal so be sure to call ahead to see if your location does!

Brewzzi – Kids eat 12 and under free at Brewzzi (FL) on Mondays (and Tuesdays). There is a limit of 2 kids’ meals when an adult spends at least $12.

Buffalo Wild Wings – On Mondays, from 5pm to 8pm kids 12 and under eat for .99 from the kids’ menu at Buffalo Wild Wings. The kids’ menu at Buffalo Wild Wings includes cheeseburger slammers, corn dogs, wings, chicken tenders and mac and cheese.

Chartroose Caboose – At Chartroose Caboose (KS) kids 10 and under can eat free from 5pm to close on Monday evening (and all day on Sunday).

Cici’s Pizza – Kids 3 and under eat free from the Cici’s Pizza buffet everyday! Specific Cici’s Pizza locations frequently have where older kids can eat for free on certain nights – check with your nearest location!

Cinzetti’s – On Mondays (and Tuesdays), from 5pm to 9pm kids 12 and under eat for free at Cinzetti’s (CO, KS)!

Cody’s Original Roadhouse – Kids 10 and under can eat for free at Cody’s Original Roadhouse (FL, ME, NC) on Mondays (and Tuesdays!) from the Kid’s Stuff Menu. There is a limit of 2 free kids’ meals for each adult entree purchase.

Denny’s – Kids can eat free at Denny’s on select nights from 4pm to 10pm at participating Denny’s. Apparently, each location offers the kids eat free promotion on different nights. This deal is limited to kids 10 and under and is limited to 2 free entrees per one regularly purchased adult entree. You can find a selection of entrees on the Denny’s kids’ menuwhich includes hot dogs, cheeseburgers, chicken nuggets, pizza, grilled cheese sandwiches and a dipper sampler.

Fuddruckers – Kids 12 and under can eat for .99 from the kids’ menu from 4pm to 9pm on Mondays (and Tuesdays) at Fuddruckers. A drink is included! The Fuddruckers kids’ menuincludes hamburgers, hot dogs, grilled cheese, macaroni & cheese, chicken bites, cheeseburger and mozzarella sticks. Not all locations offer this deal so be sure to call ahead to see if your location does!

Golden Corral – Children 10 and under eat free from 5pm to 9pm on Monday’s at Golden Corral. This is limited to 2 kids per 1 adult. Not all locations offer this deal so be sure to call ahead to see if your location does! Kids 3 and under eat free every day!

IHOP – Everyday kids eat free at IHOP if they are 12 and under. Kids can get 1 free kids’ menu item per adult entree purchased from 4pm to 8pm. The drink is not included. The IHOP kids’ menu includes pancakes, french toast, omelettes, chicken strips, cheeseburgers, grilled cheese sandwiches, eggs, fruit and fish. This deal seems to vary widely based on location – please call your location before visiting!

Islands Restaurant – Kids eat free on Mondays (and Tuesdays and Wednesdays) at Islands Restaurants (AZ, CA, CO, HI, NV). The kids’ menu at Islands includes hot dogs, grilled cheese, hamburgers, cheeseburgers, chicken tenders, quesadillas and mac & cheese.

Jason’s Deli – Kids eat free at Jason’s Deli all day on Sundays at some locations and on Mondays at others. Call your local Jason’s Deli before you go! The kids’ menu at Jason’s Deli includes sandwiches, wraps, hot dogs, salads, baked potatoes, pasta, pizza and macaroni and cheese.

KC Masterpiece – From 4pm until close on Mondays (and Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays) kids 12 and under eat free from the kids’ menu at KC Masterpiece (KS).

Locos Grill and Pub – Kids eat free on Mondays at Locos Grill & Pub. Purchase of an adult entree is required.

Millie’s Restaurant & Bakery – Every weekday kids eat for .99 at Millie’s (CA) with the purchase of an adult entree.

Moe’s Southwest Grill – On Mondays, kids eat for free at Moe’s with the purchase of an adult entree. The kids’ menu at Moe’s includes tacos, burritos and quesadillas.

O’Charley’s – Kids eat free Monday – Friday at select O’Charley’s locations.

Piccadilly – Kids 6 and under eat for free at Piccadilly Monday through Saturday. The kid’s meals at Piccadilly includes an entree (chicken tenders, corn dogs, hot pockets, chicken or fish), two sides, jell-o or pudding or a cupcake and kid’s drinks.

Pizza Hut – Kids eat free (3 and under) at Pizza Hut every day on the lunch buffet. Some locations kids younger than three can eat free at Pizza Hut’s dinner buffet as well.

Quaker Steak and Lube – From 5pm to 10pm on Mondays, kids eat for free at Quaker Steak and Lube. This is limited to one free kids’ meal per each paying adult. There is also free video games during this time!

Ricetta’s Brick Oven Pizzeria – Kids eat free at Ricetta’s on Monday (and Sunday). On Monday the free kid’s meals are limited to two per each adult meal and only to item’s on the kid’s menu. The adult meal must be a minimum of $7.95. The kid’s menu at Ricetta’sincludes pizza, chicken fingers, ravioli and pasta.

Rio Wraps – Kids 12 and under can dine for free on Mondays at Rio Wraps (MI) as long as an adult purchases a Rio Classic, Deli, Unwrapped or Low-Cal sandwich. This is for dine-in only. The kids’ menu at Rio Wraps includes quesadillas, burritos and tacos.

Rock Bottom Cafe – On Mondays and Tuesdays, kids that are 12 and under can eat free from the kids’ menu at Rock Bottom Cafe. One adult entree must be purchased from the lunch or dinner menu.

S&S Cafeterias – Kids who join the S&S Cafeterias Kid’s Club can enjoy a kid’s meal for .99 every day of the week. This meal includes an entree, 2 vegetables, a roll, jell-o and a beverage. This is limited to kids 10 and under and an adult meal purchase of $6.75 or more is required.

Shoney’s – Kids eat free at Shoney’s every day if they are 4 or younger. An adult entree purchase is required. The kids menu at Shoney’s includes chicken nuggets, spaghetti, cheese burgers, grilled cheese and shrimp.

TC Hooligans – At TC Hooligans (NY), kids eat free on Mondays. The kids’ menu at TC Hooligans includes grilled cheese, hamburger, cheeseburger, hot dog, chicken fingers and mac & cheese wedges with are served with french fries and a drink.

Texas Roadhouse – On Tuesdays (may be Mondays at some locations), kids 12 and under eat free at Texas Roadhouse. The Texas Roadhouse kids’ menu includes an entree (hot dogs, cheeseburgers, sirloin bites, macaroni & cheese, chicken critters), a side and a drink. Not all locations offer this promotion – call before you go!

Villa Rosa Italian Restaurant & Grill – Kids eat free all day on Mondays (and Sundays) at Villa Rosa Italian Restaurant & Grill. The kids’ menu at Villa Rosa includes spaghetti, lasagna, fried chicken, ziti, ravioli, manicotti and chicken tenders.

A big thank you to frugalliving.tv for the links!

What a whirlwind of pumpkins and costumes and falling leaves! It must be October. Wait, it’s November? Ah, then did I mention the candy comas?

Oh yes, our favorite time of year. Hayrides & bond fires, haunted houses and pumpkin patches! Fun fun fun fun fun!

We tried a new pumpkin patch this year it was super fun! And it’s the 1 time of the day the kids aren’t fighting. How can you argue while sliding down a huge slide on a potato sack or jumping through hay??  I’m sayin!

Our 2nd hayride of the year confirmed that Vivi is not a fan. I certainly don’t know where she gets that, but I hope she grows out of it!

Before the pumpkin farm festivities we bought our pumpkins at wal-mart, so the kids wouldn’t be tempted to pay a lot o’ the green for a little o’ gourd. (Did I just turn Irish for a second??) Anyway, we started carving and Dave had the brilliant idea that everyone carves their pumpkin outside. I knew he was a genius.

Vivi was all about helping with the pumpkins. 

For trick or treating we had a vampire, Cinderella and a pirate.

It didn’t take the little pirate but 2 houses to figure out the words “Trick or Treat”.

Cinderella was lucky she got to trick or treat at all, there was a melt down about the dress, the shoes, the crown…… In true princess form, everything had to be perfect. Little miss perfect princess almost got little perfect early bed time. Luckily for her she pulled herself together at the last second, but I’ll be happy to never see that dress again.

The vampire held the pirates leash most of the evening. Yes, I said it. I leashed my kid. & it was the best decision EVER. I was not chasing an over active toddler hopped up on sugar all night, as she could only go 2 feet from me. BEST INVENTION EVER.

Cutest video of the night:

There is all kinds of scary stuff going on if you turn on the TV, but I guess it’s time of year. Well not me, I’m going to give you some good news. Bring on the warm fuzzy feelings! Who’s encountered something proactively kind recently? I love to hear your stories!

We were driving to I’m not sure where the other day, and an old man was attempting to sit down on his lawn chair in the front yard. I’m not sure why I kept watching him, but he fell & couldn’t get up. It was definitely a holy shit moment for me. I whipped the van to the curb, looking for anyone else that could help. Of course not. And how do you begin that kind of conversation? “I witnessed your olympic style fall and was wondering if I could get you back in your chair?” Not that you need help or anything, I’m sure you’re perfectly capable.” But he did need help, he couldn’t get to his feet. Our proportions kind of gave the edge to him. I put my feet in a stance and pulled him up. It was actually an amazing moment. Why was I driving by at that exact minute? The neighbor came running over then & pounded on the door. (duh, the door, didn’t think about that.) Turns out his wife just told him to try it again! WTF? She couldn’t pick him up if he fell again. So, I worried about him all day. When I got back in the car, it turned out that the kids had watched everything and wanted to know all the details. I turned it into a teaching moment, letting them know it was our duty to help those who couldn’t help themselves. I think it sunk in, they were pretty impressed. I was shaking and could have used a glass of wine.

I’ve discovered a lot of great websites that also help people, such as www.CampusBookRentals.com  – You’d think they are all about helping college kids get books, but it gets BETTER. They’ve  partnered with Operation Smile and are donating over 1,000 life saving cleft lip surgeries this year to children in need. super cool!

This excerpt is from: http://www.onekindact.com/

“An essential component of common courtesy is awareness and common sense-looking outside yourself to see when someone needs help or acknowledgment. As a courteous person, you are aware that you are walking into a room full of people or that your waiter has arrived to take your order. Then, awareness leads to action. It is usually quite clear what needs to be done-open the door for the woman holding the baby, move your car up two feet so another person can park behind you, acknowledge your sister’s shy boyfriend with a smile and some conversation, apologize if you bump into someone. A third component is to give courtesy freely, without expecting anything in return. People may not even take notice, much less return the kindness, but you can take heart in the fact that you are creating the kind of world you want to live in with your actions.
When you are out in the world, remember to be aware of others, lend your hand when one is needed, and give this help without an ulterior motive. Through these small actions, you make this world a better place in which”

This would be the perfect time to mention Vivobello’s Proactive Partners.  Every small part adds up to the whole of greatest of good. I’m challenging everyone reading this to choose to be proactive in your lives. Can you do 1 act of kindness a week? Just sign your name & town as a promise to yourself. NO spam ever!

HERE’S THE BEST PART!

Best selling author Erin Chase from $5 dinners has come out with a Holiday Entertaining Guide and wants YOU – vivobello readers to have the first chance at it. Maybe it’s because I write awesome articles for her?   What ever the reason, it’s sure getting me into the holiday spirit! I know I can use some recipes & organizational tips! Her book Holiday Entertaining Guide is selling for $3.99 and goes on sale TODAY, And even better, use the promo code VIVOBELLO and get 50% (yes 50%!!) off your order.  Get one for your mother. She’ll love it.

This is what Erin has to say: I’ve put together a simple holiday entertaining guide to help you be the best hostess or guest during this holiday season. This guide is the antidote to every other holiday entertaining guide out there. And packed it’s with the same help and love you get from $5 Dinners every day.

See. there is kindness out there, just look around. If you do see any, do something yourself. Everybody has an elderly neighbor who’s leaves need raking. (or in some parts of the country snow shoveling!) Any kindness shows your true self. 

Hopefully only 1 more year for us…..