I am a Red-liner

Have you ever sat in church and realized that the minister was speaking directly to you??? Of course you have, we all have. Well today, I discovered that I, Juli Bradshaw, am a red-liner. Today's sermon was titled "Know When to Hold 'em, Know when to fold em." In summary, it was all about how red-liners (people who are in danger of taking on too much and are never able to enjoy the moment because they are always thinking about what could happen tomorrow or the next day) need to let go and realize that God's purpose for our life does not include being stressed out all the time, but to have a beautifully balanced life centered on Him.

It really spoke to me...especially since I am not doing so great a job at remembering my word for the year...FUN. It made me wonder how many moments I have missed because I was caught up in something stressful going on at work or home. How many times have I only half listened to Tanner or Jeremy because I was thinking about all the bills I had to enter or because I was still trying to figure out why a loan wouldn't reconcile? I don't know an exact number, but it's really too many. Well, enough is enough. I FOLD! Sometimes losing a hand, can be a good thing! Oh and for the record, the praise and worship team sang "The Gambler" as we were all leaving...I thought it was a nice touch.

F-R-E-A-K-I-N-G OUT!

Tanner and I are home alone right now...as we typically are on Saturday nights. I don't usually mind being home alone, but tonight I am a bit freaked out. I keep hearing strange noises coming from one of the vents in the living room. Actually, it's the one right next to the computer. I can't believe I am even sitting here right now. If my instincts are correct, then I have a mouse. Let me say that again for those of you who dismissed it as NOT BEING A BIG DEAL. I HAVE A MOUSE! A tiny, furry rodent with big beady eyes and a long skinny tail is in all liklihood sitting in my vent right now....watching me, and waiting for the opportunity to scurry across the floor. Which, as you know, would only cause chaos. I am twenty seven years old, but let me paint a picture of what it might look like here if I actually were to see this mouse. Picture me, standing atop whatever piece of furniture happened to be closest (probably the couch), with whatever weapon I had available (if I had to guess an empty water bottle) being waved menacingly toward the offensive creature. I would most likely be jumping up and down on one leg and shrieking. Do you have a good mental image going? I know it might be silly to be afraid of a little mouse, but for whatever reason, they frighten me. When Marianne and I were in college and living at the Park, we had a mouse in our apartment one night. We completely freaked out and lured it onto the balcony with a slice of pizza. Then we shut the door and watched it as it tried to claw its way back in. I am guessing it was trying to seek revenge for being ousted. I still get the creepy crawlies when I think about it.

So you were all apparently tired of my Monday post and felt I had been neglecting you this week. I apologize. We've had a busy week here...still kind of dull, but busy. Jeremy got the yard cleaned up...which basically means he got to buy a chainsaw. He called me at work on Wednesday from Home Depot giggling because he had found one that he NEEDED. I couldn't really tell him no. Well, I could have...but then his grandmother would have had to loan us her chainsaw...and that means that she would actually have to come to the house...and THAT, my friends, is the only thing I fear worse than the mouse. I worked late a few nights this week. Michele and I haven't even started the 1099's or the W-2's that HAVE to be done next week. So on the nights that I wasn't working late I was in bed by 9 or 9:30. I am just very tired right now. I need to take a LONG nap...in a tanning bed or on a beach. I keep telling myself Spring will be here soon.

Gotta run. I just remembered that I have movies due back tonight and Jeremy doesn't want to go back out "into the freezing cold" since he just walked in the door, so I will have to go. I will update you all again very soon--and next time with pictures!!!

Another Monday has come and gone. Today was very quiet at the office and I got a lot done. Still not enough, but I felt like I had accomplished a great deal as I was crossing the last item off of my list. I even had time to rock out to some tunes while I was working.

I am really loving Pink's new song "U + UR Hand". It's another one of her angry girl songs...and Sara, you know how I adore angry girl music. It's probably because I grew up in the ghetto and was very under privileged. All those times that I had to take care of my seven siblings because my parents weren't around...Oh wait, that wasn't me...

Things are a bit slow around the Bradshaw ranch right now...nothing exciting in the least is going on. Although, last night, I almost C-H-O-K-E-D Jeremy. He didn't necessarily do anything wrong...I was just REALLY annoyed with everything yesterday. We were watching An American Haunting and he just didn't get it...and I absolutely abhor having to explain movies to people. It drives me bonkers. Anyway, the discussion ended with him STILL not getting the movie and me hatefully forbidding him to ever watch anything rated above a PG ever again. I might have overreacted. The movie wasn't even that good. I'll apologize later, and he'll probably forgive me.

Tanner and I had a good time this weekend. We rented some movies for him to watch and played with his new doctor set. He soooo didn't want to go back to Carol's this morning after being at home for a week. But I convinced him that he would have a lot of fun with his friends and told him he could take his Backyardigan's DVD. I am NOT above bribery people. I won, and he had a great time but was glad to get home for some cuddle time with Mommy. Or was it the other way around???

Well friends and family, it is currently 10:20, and I am fading quickly. Time to go and get some beauty rest. Sweet dreams to all of you, and don't forget to tune in for American Idol tomorrow night.

Buddies

Jeremy and Tanner have spent a LOT of time together this last week. Jeremy was home Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday with him while I was working. Carol is STILL without power...poor woman! Typically Jeremy works from 10 to 9 (or later) on Friday nights, but without a babysitter we've had to rearrange our schedules a little. So I worked an earlier schedule today so he could go in and work for a while tonight, and then he has to work Sunday to make up the rest of the hours. Tanner was NOT happy when Daddy left for work tonight. He sulked for about an hour and asked every ten minutes or so if Daddy would be home soon. It's official. Mommy is chopped liver and Daddy is the coolest guy in the whole wide world. But don't worry, I am already scheming of ways to win back Tanner's affection this weekend. Since Jeremy is working Saturday and Sunday I have 48 wonderful hours with my little boy. There will be forts and cartoons and dancing and LOTS of hot chocolate. With another snow storm coming through we might as well have all the fun inside that we can. This time, we have fire wood, and propane, and all things that we might need to stay warm. So wish us well and say a prayer for everyone here in Southwest Missouri who is still without power (HONDO!!!). I'll check in again soon.

We Made It!

Well everyone, the storm is FINALLY over and the Bradshaw's made it through. It was pretty miserable at times. When the temperature in your house is forty degrees, you haven't showered in days, and you can't move more than ten feet from each other without freezing, you tend to get a little testy. Tanner was bored out of his mind, and Jeremy and I were worried about keeping him warm...so needless to say there were a few tense moments, but the power is back on now, and the house is registering a FABULOUS 70 degrees. Tanner is sitting on the couch looking at some books and listening to his Backyardigans CD. I am at home today, since Tanner's babysitter is still without power.

This morning, I heard that there were 30,000 city utilities customers that hadn't yet been restored. There have been crews working around the clock to get everyone back up. The National Guard has been going door to door checking to make sure people are making it OK. I have heard that President Bush is allowing FEMA to come in to aid in the cleanup (which means that by August or so everything should be back to normal :o)!!!). Everyone is working so hard to help out...and I am incredibly grateful.

Aside from the limbs we will have to clean up (the picture above is a view from my front porch) and the one small hole in the roof, we're no worse for the wear. Thanks everyone for the prayers and the support. You are the most awesome family and friends a girl could have!

In the Daylight...

We made it through the rest of the night without too many more big limbs crashing down to the ground. But the daylight revealed a huge mess that will inevitably get bigger before it's all over with. Wave two and three are still to come!

Currently we still have power (obviously, since I am blogging). But there are 50,000 City Utilities customers who aren't so lucky. So today, while there seems to be a break, I am cooking enough food to get us through the weekend. You know, stuff that doesn't taste bad cold. Hey, if the power stays on, at least all I will have to do is reheat and eat!! I hope all of you are weathering the storm well. Stay warm!!!

The Ice Man Cometh

Um...the winter storm is here. With a vengeance. It is currently 3:25 a.m. on Saturday Morning and I am WIDE awake people! Oh come on, you know what it takes for something like THAT to happen. Well, my wake up call came in the form of an enormous branch crashing down on the roof directly above my bed. I spent some time on the front porch for a little while and it sounded a somewhat like the fourth of July outside. You can hear snapping, crackling, and popping from miles away. If I still have power tomorrow I will share some pictures with you. Our yard already looks like a war zone and they're saying it's only going to get worse. Actually, they are saying that this is the worst ice storm in 25 years. I guess we'll just have to see how it plays out. Well, I should probably try to get some more sleep...Tanner won't care if I have been up half the night. I just wanted to give you all a status update in case I can't check in later. Nighty Night all!

What Happened to the Pineapple Under the Sea???

Spongebob is on my ceiling. I'm not kidding. Apparently he has fled Bikini Bottom and is seeking solace above my love seat. Take a look.

He's been there all day and has managed to not come crashing down to the hardwood and what would ultimately be his death. Well, perhaps he hasn't been there all day. I think Tanner chucked him up there sometime just after noon...but still that's a LONG time.

So, if you have been expecting a phone call from me and haven't gotten one, don't fret. I am fine...better than fine, actually. But for the last week, my cell phone has been MIA. I found it at around three o' clock this afternoon wedged between some couch cushions. I also came across four dollars in change, a pair of scissors and a tangerine (you win a prize if you can tell me who I borrowed that bit from). I was so happy to find it. I learned that I CAN function without my cell phone--but that I never want to have to do it again. I do not have a single phone number memorized for anyone I actually call, however, I remember phone numbers of people I haven't spoken with in years. My theory is that seven or eight years ago, my brain filled up with all the information that it could hold and since then it has not been accepting any NEW information. Instead, I make lists of things I need to know and keep them in an easy to find spot. And of course phone numbers go in the phone. I can't tell you how many times I said, "I have to call my Mom and tell her that..." and now that I have my phone I can't remember what I wanted to say.

Also, to my father whom I love very much, for some reason I can't send you instant messages anymore (sniffle)--I think my MSN is possessed. I have tried to answer you every time you have talked to me this week, and I keep getting a "this message could not be delivered to the recipient" error. I tried re-adding you as a contact...so we'll see what happens. But I am not ignoring you.

Well people, it's time to say adieu for now. But I will be back a bloggin' soon, and I will DEFINITELY be calling.

January

Typically, I have a pretty negative attitude when it comes to the month of January. It has never been anywhere close to my favorite month of the year. I'm more of a September kind of gal. January is just YUCKY! It's gray and cold and I work fifty hours a week. Why??? Taxes. Need I say more? And it has begun. This year, I think Michele and I are doing the tax stuff for only 20 of the 27 Matt Miller affiliates so we'll get a break. (If you do not notice the sarcasm DRIPPING from that line, then you are not my true friend.) There are other things that I don't like about January...but it's complicated and do we really want to delve that far into my psyche? I think not.

Despite all the bad feelings and gloominess that I associate with January, I am going to make a real effort to make this one good. I had lunch with my friend Keisha yesterday. Every year for New Years, each member of her family picks out one word to describe the type of year that they want to have, and they make it their mantra for that year. This year, she picked "fun". I was a little surprised when she told me...not because it is out of the question...but because it's not something I would have thought of. But why not?? Why can't I wake up every day and think to myself, "today, I am going to have fun". I think it is because deep down I have told myself that being a responsible adult and Mommy that I am not allowed to have fun, now I have to be serious all the time. Poppycock and Rubbish. I told Keisha that I was going to steal her word for the year. Don't worry, she was ok with it. So this is my year of fun...how bout it ya'll, anyone up for joining me????

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year Everyone! May 2007 bring much joy and prosperity to all of you, may the Lord bless you richly, and may the love of your friends and family see you through every single day! We love you!

The Bradshaw Clan

It is NEVER ok...

...to wear socks with high heels! I don't care what movie you saw it in, or who told you it was cool...do NOT do it. And Dad, please refrain from snide remarks about how you had to throw all your sock/heel combos away due to this blog...or how you promise not to do it again. Just agree with me. Tanner and I were out and about today when I saw this heinous fashion crime being committed...right in my very own town!! I had to shield his eyes from the horror of it all. What is this world coming to when a fairly sophisticated woman feels that she has to don a pair of white athletic socks to go with her heels??? Truly tragic!

Aside from having to witness the aforementioned catastrophe, Tanner and I have had a wonderful day together. We made a fun little snack today...pineapple upside down biscuits. Tanner liked helping make them more than he liked eating them...but you can't win em all. We snuggled in my bed and took a two hour nap, we have played with new Christmas toys, we are still in the middle of a Scooby Doo Marathon, and the dog has only eaten half of the shoes in the house today. Right now I am cooking dinner...ham with pineapple glaze (I had leftovers from the snack), and later when Tanner is in bed, I am going to curl up under my new fuzzy blanket and read the new Janet Evanovitch. A perfect Saturday if you ask me!

Tomorrow is New Years Eve. I purposefully asked Jeremy not to make any plans for us. All I want to do is stay home with my family and veg out. I bought some bubbly (sparkling white grape juice) today so Jeremy and I could have our midnight toast, and we have rented a couple of movies that will help us ring in the new year with out having to be out on the roads. I hope you all have a splendid New Year as well. I want a post of at least ONE of your New Years Resolutions in my comments. Love to you all.

Jules

Give the People what They Want!

I am not going to say that I have been "hounded" to do a new post...but it was heavily suggested that I should. So I am giving the people what they want. Sorry about the delay in getting some Christmas pictures up, but it has been a busy week (read: it has been the worst week I've had in a while and I didn't feel like blogging). Hopefully, everything will be calming down now and getting back to normal.

As most of you know, since you were there, Christmas Eve was spent in Joplin (actually Purcell) with my wonderful family. We had a great time and I wish that we could have visited longer.

Tanner spent the night with Nana and Papa and Mommy and Daddy came back to Springfield childless. Which was great, since it gave us some time to get everything ready for the next day. When Mom and Dad arrived with Tanner the next morning he was so excited to see that Santa did not forget to stop, even though he wasn't here.

After opening some presents at home, we piled into Ramone and headed for Jeremy's Grandma Jewel's house (the mean one!). Surprise Surprise!!!! Santa had left some stuff for Tanner THERE too!

Even though going to Jewel's house is not my most favorite thing to do, Tanner really has a good time when we're there. It may have something to do with the fact that she is constantly shoveling sugar into him, or it could be that she lets him drive the farm truck up to feed the cows. In any case, he always has fun. So combine all of the above mentioned things with presents and you can picture the pure ball of euphoria that was my child.

He loved his kitchen, and has been cooking non-stop since we (by we I mean Jeremy) set it up. Who knows, maybe we have a master chef in the making?? Also at Grandma Jewel's house, he got some clothes, and a new coat, and a few toys and of course some money for his Piggy Bank. Jeremy and I took him up in the field to feed the cows, and then Jeremy gave him a driving lesson. Tanner was so proud of himself. I have to say he did a pretty good job, at least better than half the drivers here in Springfield. After some play time, we headed to Wayne and Erma's for dinner. This is my fifth year at the Philbert family Christmas, and I think it was by far the best. All of the cousins, but the youngest, had their boyfriends there, and Meleshia's boyfriend brought his cousin, so it was a full house. And Tanner was the center of attention! He LOVED it!

We got home pretty late that evening, and Tanner was completely wiped out. But I would have to say that this was the best Bradshaw Christmas by far. And I realize how truly blessed I am to have gotten to spend time with almost every single person that I hold dear to my heart this year. I hope everyone else had a wonderful Christmas as well. And I hope that this post will satisfy your need for Christmas pictures...I'll leave you with one last one. I'm thinking of having it blown up and giving IT out as a present next year. I know Jessica, at least, will love it!

Broil Ban

I have been banned from broiling. Seriously, it just happened. I personally think that it is an unjust sentence. Here's what happened. Tanner and I decided that we wanted cheeseburgers for dinner. I thought it might be a good idea to broil them. You know, less fat and all that. As the burgers were broiling one of them caught on fire. It wasn't a BIG fire, and I put it out without any trouble whatsoever. I told Tanner it was flame kissed. DON'T JUDGE ME!!!!! The smoke alarms went off and there was a big to do about trying to open a window. (They were all caulked shut by the maintenance man.) But everything was FINE. The burgers were good, and I thought the house was mostly smoke free...Jeremy has informed me otherwise. And he proceeded to ban me from the broiler. I think his exact words were "The broiler is not for your use." So there you have it. There will be no more broiling at Casa de Bradshaw. It is a sad day indeed.

OH MY GOODNESS!!!

I just saw these pics of my beautiful friend Sara's baby Barron, and HAD to share them with you. Is he not the cutest thing!

Here's one of Baby Bear and Mommy! I love you guys and Miss you tons!!! I have a room with your names all over it!

Only 6 Shopping Days Left!

Do YOU have all of your shopping done?? We do! Jeremy did ALL of it. He told my mom that he was saving several little old ladies from me...as if I am a somewhat unpleasant shopper. Ok, so I MIGHT be a little tense in a store this time of year. Here's the thing, I have a very low tolerance for anything annoying. That includes long lines, people blocking aisles, and ugly Christmas sweaters. They set me off. So Jeremy braved the crowds Friday and took care of presents for Tanner, his side of the family, and mine. Go Team!

I have already "opened" my present. I really was kind of looking forward to opening it on Christmas morning and being surprised...BUT Jeremy thought it would be a good idea to show the present to Tanner. Approximately 5 seconds after seeing the present, Tanner ran into the kitchen to inform me of what it was. I was prepared, and covered my ears so I couldn't hear him and crisis was averted. Saturday morning we woke up and were having a leisurly morning in bed with Tanner, just kind of rough housing and having a good time when he jumped up and said, "Mommy!!! Daddy got you a watch and it's in the dresser drawer!!!" Since the surprise was kind of ruined, I got it early. It's a beautiful watch, and it came just in time as my other one just bit the dust. Tanner has opened one of his presents also. Carol got him a robot. His name is Elroy and he has "great abilities". Or at least this is what he tells us. He dances and walks and makes robot noises. Tanner just loves him. Mommy could do without him, but anything to make Tanner smile. They are tucked into bed together as I type...Elroy is Tanner's new best friend. So long Tikki!

Well, I will be seeing most of you this weekend...so if I don't blog again...LOVE YOU LOTS and see you Sunday!!!

Do I get paid for this???

I worked from home today...sort of. That means I did about an hour and a half of actual work and spent the rest of the day chasing Tanner around the house, or cleaning up something that Daisy decided was shred-worthy, or getting TW a drink, or something else that drained five minutes of time away. I accomplished NOTHING. At three, I gave up and took a nap. Sadly, I will have to do some work after Jeremy gets home and Tanner is in bed. The kitchen is trashed. The living room looks like a war zone, and Tanner is covered from head to toe in ink.

I don't really know what time this little "art project" happened, but I think it was when I was in the middle of payroll...or when I was cooking lunch. This is one of those moments when I, as a mother of a boy, just have to realize stuff like this is gonna happen. It will come off in the wash. Besides, how can you be mad when he is so proud of what he has done? Side note: Jeremy would DIE! At the moment, my little man is sitting next to me on the floor, singing a little made up song as I used to do, and being devilishly cute. So I will leave you all, and go get in some cuddle time with my turkey before he goes to bed and I get back to work.

COME ON, FRIDAY!!!

Let me open with some randomness. The ceiling fan in my room CAN NOT be safe. It has three speeds--low, medium, and helicopter. I thought I should tell you, because if I have to lie awake at night in fear of being decapitated by the ceiling fan--then you all should have to know about it--I share this thought with you, the people that I love--knowing that you won't laugh at me...or if you do, you will at least have the good grace not to do it to my face.

I am tired. My eye (the left one) has been twitching for the better part of three weeks...should I be worried? I found THREE gray hairs this morning (perhaps not a big deal to you--but I promise they grew in overnight), and I haven't sang along with the radio (unheard of!) since Monday.

Friends, I need some rejuvenation!

I need to soak my cares away in a hot bath, and watch a chick flick.
I need to read a good book that makes me laugh.
I need to have a cuddle fest with Tanner.
I need to go on a date with my husband (or at LEAST find someone who WANTS
to go on a date with my husband--I think he's to the point he would accept either
option).
I need to take a good, long nap on the couch.
I need to smile, and I need to sing. I need to be me again.

As much as I LOVE this time of the year, I hate that I forget to take just a moment for me...and inevitably, every year, I become lost...and grumpy...and very unJuli-like. So COME ON FRIDAY!!! Get here as quickly as you can...because I need you.

This weekend I vow to:
1. Not say anything bad about any of the other shoppers I encounter.
2. Take at least one nap on the couch.
3. Take a bath with an outrageous amount of bubbles.
4. Rent "Talladega Nights, the Ballad of Ricky Bobby" and laugh my head off.
5. Snuggle, and tickle, and love on my boy!
6. SING!
7. Call at least two people that I haven't talked to in awhile.
8. NOT think about work...not even once.

I am fairly certain that if I can mark off all the items on my list, I can go back to work on Tuesday (I have 3 three day weekends in a row!!!!) and feel like a normal person again. Hopefully the rest of the week will fly by and the rejuvenation process can begin. OH, don't fret, I will be back with good stories. Tomorrow night is the Company Christmas party. I am guaranteed at least one good laugh...red neck construction workers...open bar...need I say more?? I look forward to sharing them with you. Now I am going to bed---where the ceiling fan is waiting.....

You Saw it Here First

Christmas present alert! Christmas present alert! The Bradshaw family Christmas present for 90% of the people on our list is almost complete. All we are missing is some nice frames and some ribbon and we will be set. We decided this year to do pictures of Tanner for just about everyone, and after much fidgeting, fussing, and fighting it is done. I guess in retrospect it wasn't TOO bad. Tanner just can't hold still, but I was victorious! So, here's a sneak peek at the hottest Christmas present going this year! Funny how the last picture you take is ALWAYS the best, isn't it???

How to Build a Castle

Step 1: Wait until your Mom is not in the room (when she is cooking dinner is the best time).

Step 2: Remove every single pillow and couch cushion from all the furniture in the living room and pile them in the floor. Do this quickly--if you can finish before you get caught, you are more likely to be able to play on the castle.

Step 3: Repeat step two with all the pillows from all of the beds in the house.

Step 4: Climb to the top of the castle and declare yourself "King".

Step 5: When asked, "What happened in here?!?!?", blame it on the dog!

Despite the mess that has now been cleaned up twice ( I let him do this again today--on purpose), Tanner has enjoyed the castle building. At one point, he was using the large couch cushions as slides. Thank you, Corinthian, for making such durable, yet attractive furniture! It has been a great day here with just me and my favorite guy. We've been enjoying the ABC Family Classic Christmas marathon (he has now been introduced to Heat Miser and Snow Miser), and playing with play dough. And we dusted and did some laundry too. I am trying to decide if I want to give him a nap this late in the day, and let him stay up late with me tonight...or if I want him to go to bed at the usual time and spend the evening alone in solitude. I have to say that as much as I love my little guy, option number two is sounding very appealing. He's not really wanting to take a nap right now anyway. SOOOO, an evening alone in solitude it is! Right now, it is time to make some dinner. I think Tanner is going to let me off the hook with cooking, he has been wanting a PB&J all day. Bless him! So sandwiches and chocolate milk all around, and then back to relaxing on this most wonderful of Saturdays! Love to you all.

For the Ladies...or Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon

Brad Pitt and Angelina are in town this week...whoop-de-doo. This, to me, is pretty uneventful...but to the rest of Springfield...well, let's just say it's been the biggest news so far this week, and I can't turn on a radio without hearing about the newest Brangelina sighting. Brad Pitt holds no appeal to me. Everyone I work with has a Brad Pitt story. Keisha went on a blind date with him in high school. Matt and Brad were good friends...and on and on and on. My Brad Pitt story consists of me watching "Meet Joe Black" and thinking it was a terrible movie.

I have a list (one of you, maybe two, will know which list I speak of) and Brad doesn't even come CLOSE to

getting on it. Thorsten Kay and the Rock are on my list...but no Brad.

Thorsten (pictured here) has a gorgeous cleft in his chin, molten chocolate eyes (I'm a sucker for brown eyes), and a deep gruff voice that makes my heart palpitate. Oh, did I mention he writes poetry and gives the money from the books he sells to underprivileged children. Yeah, I know...dreamy.

The Rock is equally as beautiful, with his square jaw, dimples, and again chocolate brown eyes. I became attached to him during my wrestling phase. I think it was his great smile and personality that reeled me in more than anything, or something like that. Doesn't matter...I DEFINITELY smell what the Rock is Cookin'. I LOVE the People's Eyebrow.

Eeek! I have digressed. So, I don't love Brad Pitt--but because of him I, Juli Bradshaw, can be linked to Kevin Bacon. Now you all know how the game works, so I won't explain it. Instead, I will just share MY connection to Kevin Bacon with you all. Feel free to revel in the wonder of it all. I, Juli Bradshaw, work for Matt Miller, who lives next door to Doug Pitt, who is Brad Pitt's brother. Brad Pitt was married to Jennifer Aniston who was in Picture Perfect with Kevin Bacon. TA DAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You're probably not impressed, huh? Hey, I can't please all the people ALL the time. Well for those of you who are not easily impressed, let me amaze you with the picture of the cutest guy of all time--the one who has my heart completely! Now THIS is the face of a heart breaker!

Heffalump Cookies

Today, while grocery shopping, Tanner pointed to a bag of cookies and said "Mommy, Can I have some Heffalump cookies?" Even though we went in with a "no junk food" policy today, we quickly caved when we saw that he was referring to a bag of iced animal crackers. Jeremy and I looked at each other guiltily.

Jeremy: I was going to tell him no, but he asked so cutely.

Juli: We caved because he's cute?? We're horrible parents!

SIGH! Does this parenting thing ever get ANY easier. I was reflecting on how it seems now that MY parents were always right...so how come I feel like what I am doing isn't??? It's so frustrating! But regardless of whether we are horrible parents or not, one thing is true...Tanner IS cute.

We spent much of the afternoon outside building the snowman that I couldn't build yesterday. I wanted Tanner to get as much time outside as possible since by next weekend it will all be gone. He shoveled, and threw more snowballs, and helped us build his very first snowman. The snow was so fine that we had the hardest time getting it to pack...so we grabbed the water hose. He's not as tall as we would have liked for him to be, and he is a little crooked, and then there's the fact that he has a hot dog for a nose, but Tanner was so proud! He keeps running to the window to look outside and make sure he is still hanging out in the back yard. He even suggested taking some toys outside for him to play with...in case he should get bored. I may be a little biased...but I think he's the cutest snowman in Springfield!

After we were all sufficiently frozen, we trekked back inside, changed into some dry clothes and

then, on the advice of one of my favorite people, I made Tanner some hot cocoa--in the very same mug that MY mom used to make hot cocoa for me and snuggled up with him. Sadly I don't have "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" (but I'll see if I can't find it somewhere), but I can tell you that he was excited to be inside snuggling with Mommy, watching the Fox and the Hound and drinking his hot chocolate. It has been a pretty splendiforous afternoon.

Later I plan on taking a wonderfully hot bubble bath and treating myself to a facial before I have to begin my week...Don't you wish that the weekends could last forever?

Baby, It's Cold Outside!

It's cold, but that hasn't stopped Tanner and I from having some outdoor fun. This is Tanner's first real snow, and he is loving every minute of it. The first thing he did was fling himself onto the ground so that he could make a snow angel. It was comical watching him try to move his arms and legs at the same time...oh I hope the poor child didn't get his mother's coordination! He was mostly successful in the actual MAKING of the snow angels...but the "getting up so that you don't completely destroy what you have just created" part still needs some work. He'll get it eventually!


Next the snowball throwing began...sort of. This snow is pretty fine and hard to pack together. So Tanner was picking up a handful of snow and just tossing it at my head. No harm done, and it made for a super cute picture. Daisy has been playing outside with us. She's a trooper, but she definitely doesn't like the snow as much as Tanner. Currently, we are inside thawing out so that in a little while we can go and do it again. Tanner has been rummaging for a carrot in the hopes of building a snowman. I wonder if a baby carrot will work--I think that is all I have. He is now BEGGING me to go outside...so I am off again. Perhaps later I'll be back with pictures of Tanner enjoying some snow ice cream. YUMMY!

Winter Wonderland

Can I just say, "BRING ON THE SNOW!!!!" I was thinking yesterday about how long it had been since we had seen a good snow. The last time I remember was December 2002. We were living in the house on Annie Baxter in Joplin and it was Tanner's very first Christmas. Mom and Dad, took him out to Grandma's to spend the weekend and we ended up getting around nine inches of snow. I didn't think Jeremy and I could make it out to Purcell to get him, and I just bawled because I wanted to be there for Tanner's first Christmas. We braved the ice, though, and made it without a hitch.

Since we have moved to Springfield, we have seen virtually no snow at all. It always goes North of the interstate of just South of the Christian County line. Bummer! The last report I heard had us getting anywhere from six to ten inches, and I couldn't be happier! I promised Tanner that if it snowed we could gang up on Daddy and have a snowball fight. With any luck Old Jack Frost will come through for us!!! Stay warm everyone and talk to you again soon.

I'm thinking of a career change

When I am feeling sad, nothing cheers me up faster than watching something that makes me laugh. One of my favorite guilty pleasures is Reno 911. The following clip has made me desperately want to be a police officer. What do you think?? I'd look cute in a badge??

BLAH! Every day can't be sunshine.

Current Mood: MELANCHOLY

Juli is feeling a little bit blue today, all. Very weepy. And sometimes crying doesn't make you feel any better. Humph, I always thought it did. So if you spoke with me on the phone today, and I wasn't my normal cheerful self, do not be alarmed...I'll be fine (and dandy, like a hard candy Christmas--I love Dolly). I just need a few days to work through the million spinning thoughts in my head. No, I don't want to talk about it, I just want to curl into my bed and cry my eyes out for a few days, then I am sure I will be ready to conquer the world again. But I wanted to leave you all with some pictures to get you through the week. I wouldn't put you through Tanner withdrawals. So enjoy, I am going to go in search of some hot tea, a good book and a quiet place where I can be by myself (bah humbug). Jeremy will get a medal if he can handle this ;0)

Let the dieting commence!

We are home safe and sound from the lovely state of Kansas. Thanksgiving was wonderful. Jeremy, Tanner and I left Springfield around 1:20 on Wednesday afternoon and began what probably should have been a four and a half hour trip to Mom and Dad's. Daisy was extremely carsick, however, so the trip did not go as quickly as it should have. But we arrived in Wellington at about 6:50. We got to sit in on my Dad's Wednesday evening lesson, which I enjoyed very much. Then the cooking began. I had a great time in my Mom's kitchen cooking for the family that I love...and we did a pretty good job even with just one oven rack...huh, Mom?

We laughed and talked and watched cartoons with Tanner. The puppies played together. And of course, we ate....and ate....and ate some more. I still managed to come home with leftovers. Jeremy and I agreed that this Thanksgiving was a lot of fun, but that next time we'll definitely want to stay a little longer. By the way, it only took us about four hours and forty-five minutes to get home. Jeremy had to work today, but I plan on enjoying my three day weekend as much as possible. I hope each and everyone of you had a wonderful Thanksgiving day. I'm sure I will have lots of long weekend stories to share later...so check back soon.

Decking the Halls

Christmas seems to have come early to Casa de Bradshaw! Yesterday afternoon, Jeremy and I decided that it would be the best day to put up our Christmas tree since this next weekend is going to be so hectic. We haven't had one for the last three years, because there simply wasn't room for one at the Townhouse. Ok, that's not entirely true...we did have the little three foot fiber optic tree that we had on our end table. This year, that little tree is in Tanner's room on his coloring table. He loves having his own tree! So now that we have 2000 square feet to work with, we wanted to decorate. This will be, after all, the first year that Tanner actually knows what is going on. Of course, our old tree had been in a box for three years and definitely wasn't in good shape. We only had one choice.

Let the shopping begin!!!

Target was packed, but we managed to find the perfect tree for our little family...and they had some fantastic deals on decorations. Tanner was so excited the entire time, and kept insisting that we need one of this...or two of that. And we DEFINITELY had to have some "Christmas socks". He was so cute! But of course the REALLY fun part was actually decorating the tree!

Tanner got his little chair out to stand on so that he could help Daddy reach the higher branches...The only problem was that he didn't want to move his chair, so all the ornaments were ending up in the same spot! But with a little direction he did a great job! Now the only thing we're missing is the presents to go underneath it! I think the finished product is beautiful.

This Week...

This week seemed to be crammed full of activity...it is Saturday and Jeremy and I are desperately trying to catch up on some much needed relaxation before we have to do it all again. Here's a rundown of some of the high points of the week...cause why would I want to dwell on the negative??

First, a long lost friend resurfaced. Buffie Bennett (Jarmin) found me magically and we have been reconnecting. It's been so nice to hear about her beautiful family and play catch up. She was one of my closest friends at one of the most awkward stages of my life and I feel blessed to have gotten a second chance to get to know her!

This week also brought the return of another friend whom you all know as RRRRRRAMONE! Roll the r, it sounds better. He has been repaired and looks as beautiful as he did the day we brought him home. I drove him yesterday and today, I think he missed me as much as I missed him.

Construction is slowly but surely wrapping up at work, which means that I will only be choking on drywall dust and paint for probably another two weeks. That will be a joyous day for me...now if I can just get someone to replace the light bulb above my desk (it burnt out two months ago). I have hopes people! Don't take that away from me. One day I will tell you about the "Benefits" package that we have created for new hires. The highlight is the Free Fitness plan (parking seven blocks away and having to walk to the office from lack of downtown parking).

I'll leave you with a funny story that prooves my husband's patience. Thursday, I ran home for lunch to grab a nutritious and delicious protein shake. I mixed it up in one of Tanner's little cups and when I was done I tossed it in the sink. Somehow, it lodged itself in the drain...and WOULD NOT COME OUT! Jeremy stood at the sink for about thirty minutes. He finally, got the stubborn thing out. I took a picture of him wrestling with it...and I may have told him I WASN'T going to post it...I lied! Um, I think in this one he was asking me how on earth I had managed to get a cup that was bigger than the hole in the sink stuck. What can I say, I am gifted.

The look on his face is pure amazement folks! Doesn't he look cute in his new sweater and pants??? Gotta love him!

27

Today, I turned 27 years old. Long ago, I quit expecting to feel any older on my birthdays. So I knew that this birthday would pass much like any other day. It was, however, surprisingly nice. I arrived at work to a much needed case of Diet Dr. Pepper, left by the Dr. Pepper fairy a.k.a. Chyna. I received a lovely email from my beautiful Mother that made me smile. Sometime around 11:30, a gorgeous bouquet of flowers walked in the door. My bosses Matt, Matthew and Jeff got them for me. They can be thoughtful when they want to be. Then the girls surprised me with pizza and ice cream cake for lunch. I am the one who plans all the parties at the office, so the fact that someone else had taken on the task made me feel very loved.

I left the office at Four to go and get my Drivers License renewed...it was almost too easy. Now I am home with my favorite guy (who is eating his dinner--or rather, NOT eating his dinner). I plan on playing Tanner's new computer game with him and reading him an extra long bed time story before tucking him into bed...his own hopefully.

I don't know if I mentioned it, but Tanner is now afraid of the Boogieman. It's just a phase, it's just a phase, it's just a phase. The last two nights he has slept in our bed. I tuck him in tight with "Bravery Bear" (an old stuffed bear that sits on my dresser) and turn on the humidifier that Mom and Dad got us for Christmas last year. He watches the colors and mist until he falls asleep. Last night, I added some Lavender to the water and he was out like a light. My plans are to do whatever necessary to get him to sleep until Friday, and then have a camp out in his room. Maybe that will help--maybe not. For now, I think he is finished eating...so off I go.
Talk to you all again soon.

Trivial Pursuit and Chinese Food

My tummy is full, and I am happy. Chinese food happy. Jeremy and I have found a teeny tiny hole in the wall restaurant that serves THE YUMMIEST Chinese food. And it's right up the road...how glorious is that?? I think we decided that if Mom and Dad ever come visit we will buy them dinner from there (hint hint). What??? You want some too?? Well, come on then. EVERYONE'S invited! We had a busy day, lots of shopping. Jeremy has a new wardrobe, Tanner has a new toy vacuum and I have a headache. I crashed hard this afternoon. I think I slept for three hours or better. It was blissful. My bed was cozy and the room was dark and oh so quiet. No one disturbed me...probably because I was so grumpy all morning and they were afraid. I know what you are thinking. Juli??? Grumpy? It cannot be true! But I awoke feeling refreshed and much nicer.

Now, I am gearing up for some Trivial pursuit with my husband. (I am going to crush him into oblivion) It was my SURPRISE birthday present. Totally 80's. I have the greatest hits of the 80's playing on VH1 to "get me in that Rockin' 80's mood". In case you were wondering, Bon Jovi's "Living on a Prayer" took number one. I love me some Bon Jovi. I may have to bring the game to Thanksgiving--so be prepared!

Alright blog followers. It is time to put the munchkin to bed. And then GAME TIME! So, nighty night and talk to you again this week. Cause I have to do a Birthday blog!

'Tis the Season

Well, I guess the cold and flu season is here...rearing its ugly congested head at us all. Or at least at all of us here at 404 E Morningside. Tanner and I stayed home today. And slept. And coughed. And sneezed. It wasn't pretty, I assure you. So I didn't make it to the polls and can only hope that there were enough people who agreed with me that were able to make it...or I can hope that the votes of those who don't agree with me get lost somewhere. Either way.

Currently, I am cooking my beloved son a gourmet dinner (read: Swanson's Pot pie). It is times like this when I am greatly appreciative of the convenience meal. Although, I would much rather be cooking something myself. Jeremy will be home soon, and I can go crash and hope that tomorrow morning when I wake up my throat is no longer swollen and red and that my cough is gone. And I will happily go to work and put in my eight hours.

For now, I am going to say goodnight. I am going to go find my Nyquil and get some rest. I love you all, and thank you to the two of you that noticed I was missing in action and made sure I was ok (you know who you are!).

I Heart Jeremy

I love my husband. No really, I do. Lots and lots and lots. Wanna know why?? Well, let me elaborate. My birthday is in 13 days. Truth be told, I hadn't thought too much about it yet. Cause, really, 27 isn't too big a deal. We have a standing tradition as far as my birthday present goes. Every year in September, Disney releases an older Disney movie from their "vault" and does a "special edition" DVD. Because I love Disney movies so much, every year I get which ever one has been released for my birthday. This year, it happens to be The Little Mermaid. MY FAVORITE!!!! I have been anticipating it since September. Today, on my way home from work, I was talking to Jeremy on the phone, and he casually mentioned that he had picked up my birthday present. You know me--I immediately asked, "What is it?" He muttered something sarcastic. So I said, "Is it The Little Mermaid?" "No, I haven't picked that up yet, but we can go to Target and get it next week." COLOR ME SURPRISED!!!!! TWO Birthday presents!?!?!? He wasn't home at the time, but he informed me that it was on the table so I would see it when I got home. So I proceeded to speed (just a little) so that I could get home and see it.

Isn't she adorable??? Jeremy M-A-D-E- her for me at Build a Bear today. You can't really tell from the picture, but her shirt has lady bugs on it and says "Love Bug". Her shoes are little lady bugs. Inside her is a little pouch that holds a guardian angel, and a small pouch that holds confetti (which represents my hopes) is tucked inside her head...so that I can whisper my wishes in her ear. I think she is the perfect birthday present! I am still very touched that my husband took the time to make something that is so representative of me instead of just going somewhere and buying something that someone else already has. HE SO GETS ME!


I named her Belle (for those of you who don't speak French, it means Beautiful). In addition to Belle, and the not yet received Little Mermaid, my husband has built me a roaring fire. And I am going to go and snuggle up in front of it and watch "Over the Hedge". So Good night to you all...and Jeremy, I really do love you lots and lots and lots!