Need a Self Esteem Boost? Don't Call Us.

I have always felt blessed that Berkeley feels comfortable enough to talk to me about the things her friends and she discuss when I am not there. I hope that she will always feel comfortable to to talk to me about things. However, a couple of days ago Berkeley and I are hanging out, when she tells me the following:

Berkeley: "Abby had this thing on her cheek today, it looked like a zit."

Me: "Oh, that's not good."

Berkeley: "Yah, but I told her not to worry, because her's was small and my Mom's zits are way, way, WAY bigger than that."

Me: "Unfortunately, that's probably true."

Berkeley: "Yah, but Abby said "No," that her "Mom's zits were sooooo HUGE."

While I was mentally trying to pick my self-esteem off the ground...I was also giggling to myself thinking that our daughters were sitting there "trumping" each other with whose Mom had the biggest zits. Hilarious. It reminded me of another time in motherhood when I was bathing Berkeley and said to me:

"Mom, are you ever going to try to look sexy like those Victoria Secret Models in the commercials?"

I can't remember my exact response...but it was something like: "Well, I have tried to look that way...but not everybody looks like that."

She replied: "Well, your hair doesn't really look good like you have it right now..." (it was on top of my head in a nasty looking half ponytail...) "and maybe you could not wear your glasses ~ because you look prettier without them."

Looking back...my sarcastic response to the "Are you ever going to try to be sexy....?" question would be: "Everyday, Berkeley...Everyday." We're always trying to look sexier, skinnier, and younger. But "In My Daughters Eyes", Martina McBride, it's amazing that I was ever attractive enough to produce offspring to insult me. :)

I'm strong enough to take the periodic beatings. Deep down I know that she means no harm at all. Like I said...at least she talks to me. Besides...I like to think that uglier people than me have found someone to think they are sexy.... so I'll never lose hope! LOL

I Love You, Berkeley.

The Nicorette Ghost ??

I can't imagine how hard it would be to quit something that has been a part of your entire life.

When I was younger I used to leave "Stop Smoking" pamphlets around the house for my Mom. I'd leave them in her purse, on her pillows, under the ashtrays... As a thirty-four-year-old now, I still hold out hope that she will quit one of these days. I want her around with us as long as we can possibly have her.

The grandkids have started learning about smoking at school. They know it is bad for your health. They know that Grandma Ladybug smokes. They have heard their parents complain about having to be around it anywhere (not just at Grandma's house). We have heard comments from the girls here and there about their concerns for Grandma...but I had to smile when I saw this note posted at my Mom's recently, on the whiteboard on her fridge:

I had to wonder if my Mom thought I'd "put Berkeley up to it". I didn't. She did this totally and completely on her own. But, I wouldn't have stopped her. It is her way of expressing her fears and worries about Grandma too. These little ladies love their Ladybug beyond measure...and if the power of the "house ghost" is strong enough...he just might be able to work magic...

I love you, Mom. Just when you thought you had escaped all the pamphlet surprises...along came my offspring. :) Sorry about that!

What a way to start the day....

McKenna and I were snuggling in bed Sunday morning...and I decided to grab my phone and take a picture. These are good moments.

New Family Photo...

It's our best photo yet.... Hope you enjoy it as much as we enjoyed making it!