Suburban Rage - Life, Lessons, And Tales From The 'Hood'

Hello Again!

2009-06-05T08:45:00.004-04:00

Hello strangers, I'm back! Did you miss me? I have to say the past few months have not been the most banner in my life but I think I'm through it all, and ready to write again. (And I can't believe my blog is a year old! WOW!)

February - I lost my job; lay-offs, or if you want to put spin on it, "my assignment ended". After working since college, I felt very untethered. I loved my job, my schedule, my boss, my co-workers. I had been working which feels like forever, and then it was taken from me. I felt lost sad, and without direction. I hadn't even been on an interview in over ten years; heck, I didn't even own a suit. As of today, I still don't have a job, but I have found great joy in being home with Charlie. He starts first grade and a full-time schedule in the fall, and I've really loved the time that we've had to spend with each other. A friend of mine once told me that you can always make up money, but never time. This is become my mantra when I start to slip back into that feeling of being directionless. For me, this is my time.

March - My grandmother dies. That's two family members in one year. Seems like I'm losing everything this year but good stuff like weight. What keeps me going this month is that this long horrible winter is almost over and spring is around the corner, full of new hope, as well as some well deserved warm weather.

April - Spring has sprung! I was able to take my convertible out of storage, and spend a few rare 90 degree days at the beach. There is something so healing about the warm sun, the sound of the waves hitting against the shore and the smell of the salty air. Day by day my bitterness is being replaced with inter-peace. Charlie and I are into our stay-at-home routine, and life feels like it's getting back on track. We celebrate Earth Day by seeing Disney's "Earth" when I'm nearly in tears when any of the animals gets lost or eaten, Charlie turns to me and says, "Mama, that's just the way life is.."

May - Mother's Day was low key but not any less special. Charlie's class had a mother's day tea with all the heart tugging sweetness that all us mother's eat up. The class sang songs about how much they loved their moms. They gave us painted portraits that each student did of their moms. (I thought it was funny/awesome that Charlie painted me with a black shirt, Angelina Jolie lips and a tiara.) Then they served us tea in china cups and handed out these "mad-lib" type fill in the blank cards; which have things on it like "my mom has blond hair and blue eyes. " You got to love kids. Charlie's card said, when my mom was little, she - fill in the blank- liked to play guns. (Great! I'm sure the school has opened a file on me!) As well as, "I know my mom is angry - "when she yells." "I would not trade my mom - "for Legos!" WOW! That's something if you knew Charlie. May also brought me thinking a lot of Julie. I still can't believe it's been a year since she died. I think of her always, especially what a great mom she was. She really taught me a lot about motherhood, and thinking back, I'm always in awe how effortless she seem to raise her four amazing children.

And now June is here. My blog is now a year old. I'm excited to start writing again. And while the premise of the blog has changed temporally, from "working mom" to "stay at home", I hope you'll stop by every once in a while to say hi! I'll be here!

XOXOXO

Are You Looking For A New Career?..Become A Ho!

2009-02-05T11:02:00.005-05:00

I HAVE to share this job posting that I found on Craiglist today!!

PERSONAL ASSISTANT
Date: 2009-02-04, 1:55PM EST IDEAL CANDIDATE MUST BE A ATTRACTIVE FEMALE, WHO IS OPENMINDED AND HAVE A VERY FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE. YOU WILL BE WORKING FOR THE CFO OF COMPANY AND HOURS VARY.. WE WILL GET TOGETHER 2-3 TIMES WEEKLY TO WINE AN DDINE CLIENTS DO UP PROPOSALS, AND MOST IMPORTANT OF ALL MIX BUSINESS WITH PLEASURE . LADIES PLEASE READ BETWEEN THE LINES BEFORE APPLYING AS THIS IS A BUSINESS/PERSONAL ARRANGEMENT EXCELLENT SALARY WEEKLY AND SIGN ON BONUS AFTER 60 DAYS OF LOYALTY.. PLEASE LEAVE NAME AND NUMBER ONLY FOR A CALL BACK START THIS WEEK AND START EARNING A VERY GENEROUS PAYCHECK FOR A FUN JOB.

Compensation: 1200 WEEKLY
This is a part-time job.

AND NO I'M NOT APPLYING FOR IT!!!!!

Random Thoughts

2009-01-28T10:11:00.003-05:00

If you watched Paranormal State on A&E Monday night, you were supposed to see my friend Bob Murch being interviewed as a "spirit board expert".

A&E cut his interview...BOOO! (I'll never watch them again). OK, maybe I will as they posted his interview on-line.

Check out Bob's interview on Paranormal State!

Great job Bob!

Charlie just got over the stomach bug. I was feeling like a rock star mom for jumping into action once I saw him start to heave and got him the bucket just in time. However, two seconds later he dropped it and spilled it all over the rug and me. Needless to say, I didn't have dinner as I was nauseous the rest the night because I couldn't get the smell out of my 'minds nose'. I had all he misery of feeling like I was going to puke but didn't have the benefit of actually puking and losing a few pounds.

He must be feeling better because this morning he came into the kitchen, with his hands on his hips, and said, "Where's my breakfast? I don't see it, I don't smell it, I don't hear it."

He's in rare form, because after sitting on the radiator, he feels the need to share, "Mama, my buns are hot. I mean hot like 'temperature', not hot like in 'attractive'." Oh, my!

It's a snow day, so I'm balancing working from home and watching him. I hope we live through the day without killing each other.

I did something the other day that I haven't done since Clinton's first term. I colored my own hair. *GASP* But it's really expensive to have your hair colored professionally, and desperate times call for desperate measures. It's only a little brassy, plus I could use the extra money for botox.

I'm so ready for summer and we're not even into the February part of Janufeb.
Why is it that January through March goes by so slowly and the rest of the year flies by?

Wishing you a happy Wednesday!

XOXOX

Friday's Commute

2009-01-27T16:07:00.005-05:00

I'm just going to come out and say it! It was traumatic and horrifying.

If you're my friend on Facebook, you may know that my status as of Friday morning was:

"Sarah believes (OK, is hoping) her check engine light is a dealership scam."

I actually did believe this, until I was driving home and my car DIES in the middle of the expressway, in BOSTON FRIDAY COMMUTER TRAFFIC, in a place where there was no space to pull over.

People drove by me giving me the finger, screaming swears, pointing and yelling at me.

YES PEOPLE! I STOPPED HERE ON THE EXPRESSWAY TO PISS YOU OFF AND TO RUIN YOUR DAY/COMMUTE. I HAVE NO DESIRE TO GET HOME TO EAT OR SEE MY FAMILY (don't read into the order there...GARY)!! INSTEAD, I LOVE JUST STOPPING HERE IN DORCHESTER IN THE MIDDLE OF THE EXPRESSWAY TO TAKE IN THE VIEW OF THE GAS TANK!!

I called AAA. It is amazing for me that I have the presence of mind to do this, as my normal gut reaction in a crisis situation is to curl up in fetal position, suck my thumb and mumble.

But I came very close.

The AAA call center lady, needed to know my exact position.

I couldn't not articulate where I was. I couldn't remember. I travel that road all the time and I couldn't remember if it was route, 1, 128, 95, or 93. I was shaking.

As I'm "talking" to AAA call center lady, the Mass Care highway van pulls up to offer assistance and at the same time this African American family pulled along side of me to ask me if I was OK.

I was panicked and disoriented in my thoughts... All I could get out was..

Dahh...

They asked again, "Mame, are you alright?"

Dahh...

They probably thought I was one of those Volvo wagon driving white chicks who believed that they were going to rob me.

I hoped they laughed at me when I got home.

I would have.

To me I say, "You want some cheese with that 'cracker'?"

I did make it off the highway, and I was picked up by a tow truck and made it home 4 hours later.

I wasn't sure whether to laugh or to cry.

Thank goodness my mother gives me AAA every year for Christmas. She always get her moneys worth. I think I've call them 3 times in the last twelve months already.

I think they should have punch cards, because by the next time I call them, I should have enough hole punches for a free sandwich or something.

Here's to happy commuting for the rest of the week, year, life?

XOXOX

For Fun! Look-A-Like Of The Week

2009-01-22T13:05:00.011-05:00

Charlie is cuter and doesn't smoke, but you can see some similarities....

Breakfast at Reds

2009-01-21T13:39:00.004-05:00

This weekend we met the fabulous and not so ambiguous gay duo Gary and Bob and their friend Danielle for breakfast, and Salem’s breakfast/lunch hot spot Reds.

Charlie was being shy and basically hid under the table while, we all caught up.

We were in a heated conversation on whether or not it’s fair to have to split bill equal parts when you’ve had nothing to drink e.g., cocktails, wine, beer etc.

Most times I’m like whatever; but I was telling them about the one time I went out, and I wasn’t feeling well, barely ate and had nothing to drink. The bottles of wine were flowing, and in the end I got screwed.

It’s at this point Charlie perks up from under his chair.

Charlie: Mama, did you just say you didn’t eat anything?
Me: Yeah, I was sick so I didn’t eat anything.
Charlie: Mama, you eat all the time.
Me: Thanks Charlie.
Charlie: No, I mean it. You eat more then anyone I know.
Me: OK, gotcha.
Charlie: I mean you EAT ALL THE TIME!
Me: Understood.
Charlie: Daddy did you hear what mama said? She said she didn’t eat anything, when she eats all the time.

OK KIDDO, I'M PICKING UP WHAT YOU'RE PUTTING DOWN!!

Gary was amused as he thinks I eat like a linebacker and that my secret to loss weight has to do with me putting down my fork.

OK, so what if I ate all my breakfast……and half of Bobs.

Remember Bob is on PARANORMAL STATE ON A&E, January 26th at 10pm.

They asked him to be a regular on the show, but he wants to see how they portray him. When I asked Gary if he went, he said that since they weren’t going to film him, he saw no point in going to the shoot.

I hear ya Gary. I hear ya...

XOXO

Wii think SUE ROCKS!

2009-01-16T09:43:00.011-05:00

Today I feel like the luckiest girl in the world. My best friend Sue B. was able to secure me a Wii Fit!! I didn't have to buy it from Target, (Not like it matters since there still is not a Wii Fit to be found in our area) and I didn't have to pay for the outrageous cabbage-patch-type-mark up on eBay or Amazon!

IN YOUR FACE SASSY PANTS ASSOCIATE FROM TARGET WHO OPENLY MOCKED ME !

IN YOUR FACE!

happy dance, happy dance, happy dance...

I know that's being small, but it's all I have.

It's very good thing when you have a best friend who works in New York City, and has to walk by Nintendo World on her way to work.

Yes, there's actually a place called 'Nintendo World' and Charlie must never find out.

Sue said that normally there's a crowd waiting in line before it opens, but today it wasn't so bad. She thinks it's because the tourist have all gone home now that the holidays are over; but I think the sub-zero temperatures have something to do with it too.

Luckily they didn't make her wait outside, and they let her in. She said today there was maybe 5 people waiting for them.

Thanks SUE! I'm so excited to integrate this into my current work out routine of basically nothing. I'm not sure what exercises are on Wii Fit, or exactly what Wii Fit really is, but....

YEAH! I'M SO HAPPY!!!! Summer swimsuit, you better watch out!!

Rich Clapp's Reality Prediction??

I'll never use it and it will be come yard sale fodder.

XOXOXO

How To Eat Sushi in Three Easy Steps by Charlie Clapp

2009-01-15T16:51:00.008-05:00

Have you ever had trouble mastering the art of eating Sushi? Charlie Clapp shows you how to eat Sushi in THREE EASY STEPS!

First: You simply take your chopsticks and lift the sushi.

Second: If that doesn't work, just pick it up with your fingers.

Third: If step one and two don't work, and your rice starts to crumble, just eat the fish off the top, since that's the best part anyway.

XOXOX

80's Fashions: Back To The Future?

2009-01-14T10:51:00.014-05:00

The 80's! When it came to fashion; it was the best of times, it was the worst of times.

The other day, I went shopping with my friend Christina; I'm a lone shopper because I like to go at my own pace, but co-shopping was really fun. It brought me right back to memories of high school except we had money and could afford more then boy band posters at Spencer's Gifts, nachos at Taco Bell, and we didn't have to wait forever standing in the cold for someone's parents to pick us up. Oh, the simple joys of adulthood.

As we strolled into H&M. (I love their basic black t-shirts and kids clothes) We both noticed something else that reminded us of high school.

80's fashions! And whether you like it or not, they are back.

I'm sure my friend Gary (who btw corrected me from Monday's post - is the better half of Gary and Bob) is excited of the possibility of jazz shoes making a come-back. He hadn't been so disappointed, since finding out that 'Karl's Sausage Kitchen' actually sells sausage, and is not a gay bar.

At H&M, we saw clothes that I remember giving to Good Will what seems like just a few years back. Bright colored and bold patterned long sweaters that you cinch with an over sized belt and wear over stirrup pants. Goddy plastic jewelry, and yes, even leg warmers. Christina even pointed out a neon yellow and black giant hounds tooth print sweater as something she remembers she might have owned.

But it wasn't all bad. I remember thinking that Molly Ringwald's wardrobe was-to-die-for-cool in Pretty in Pink. Then she blew it making that ugly ass prom dress that looked liked a pink potato sack.

To this day, it still bugs me.

When we went to our neighbors for their Hanukkah party a few weeks ago, one of the teen aged girls that lived there was wearing like 500 jelly bracelets on one arm. I said, "Hey we used to do that in the 80's!" (Thank you Madonna!) She looked at me uncomfortably like she must have been mentally calculating my age in her head, and wondering what it was like to have one foot in the grave.

Last week, I saw young woman waiting for the school bus, wearing what? Yep! Leg warmers!

I think for 80's fashion there is a fine line between bringing back awfulness and retro chic

Charlie wearing a Devo concert tee, as an example of 80's retro chic.

I was overjoyed when I found this hip bit for Charlie at Target!

"Who ya gonna call?"

"Ghost Busters!"

But if I see you in leg warmers and/or jazz shoes (sorry Gary) and your not dancing, I'll will be calling the fashion police.

XOXOX

I Remember Julie In Life's Little Moments

2009-01-12T13:38:00.010-05:00

It was a year ago this weekend that we learned my sister-in-law and dear friend was losing her battle with cancer; and now, a year later, I still find it hard to believe she's gone, and that I can't pick up the phone and call her.

Her death, brought me great sadness and showed me an ugly side of human nature which I'm still trying to make peace with; yet also brought me some great friends, and a better appreciation for the everyday.

And this weekend, a year later, it's the joy in little things that I celebrate.

This weekend, Charlie was invited to a birthday party at Build-a-Bear. Charlie had his last few birthdays there, so it was nice to be one of the drop of parents that didn't have to incur a bill at the end.

My friend and neighbor Amy L, went to get our eyebrows waxed. It was oddly a bonding moment. Watching each other have hair ripped out from the roots with hot wax while we talked about kids, school and life in general.

When we got back, I was surprised (pleasantly so) when I saw Charlie's bear.
It was so perfectly Charlie Clapp!

Charlie is my little environmentalist. Everywhere we go, he'll pick up trash, remind us to conserve, and he gives me lectures on depleting the world resources. He doesn't get this from me, I think my lungs are permanently coated with Aqua Net and I've been known to drive in the summer with my heated seats on while using the A/C and also *gasp* throw away glass instead of recycling. (OH GOD, there I said it.) . I'm trying to be more green, but I have to admit that I can stand to reduce my carbon foot print. Awareness is the first step; it also helps living with a 6 year old envir-nazi.

Another thing I'm excited about is my friend Bob Murch, the better half of my favorite gay duo Gary and Bob, is going to be featured on Paranormal State on A&E January 26th at 10:30 pm. Bob, former fellow Salem resident, and Ouija board expert has been a consultant on numerous films, like What Lies Beneath starting Harrison Ford and Michelle Pheiffer. YEAH BOB!

And finally today, I was able to find a snow board for Charlie. We just gave it to him and he was sooooo excited!! What was really nice, was the board was $50 on clearance, and I found $40 outside in the parking lot bringing my out of pocket expense to TEN DOLLARS AMERICAN!

So there you go. Nothing earth shattering, or anything, just the specialness that makes up our everyday. I miss Jules, but I see, feel and knows she there in life's little special moments.

XOXO

My Mommy Neurotic Moment!

2009-01-09T12:28:00.007-05:00

I've totally discovered Facebook! I love keeping up with all my friends since birth, and what they've been doing, basically all my life.

I also love the feature, "What are you doing right now?" I get a kick out of the honesty and creative ways my friends update what can be considered the mundane "now".

Last night I was snuggled on the couch with Charlie and watching Drake and Josh. It's a silly little show about two stepbrothers and their very smart-but-uses-her-powers-for-evil, e.g, getting back at her brothers, sister Megan.

For my status, I put, "Watching Drake and Josh with Charlie"

A friend of mine responded to my status saying.

"My kids watch this at my mothers house, they think it's a teenage show and it's inappropriate."

I immediately went into, "OMG, am I a bad mother?, mode!"

Here are kids younger then Charlie who think that the show is inappropriate. Should I not be letting him watch this? Am I clueless, hurting his mental state, etc.? This then lead to my thinking, "Does he watch too much TV?" What about the Wii? To much of that? Should he be involved more in things? Should I be making more of a sacrifice to send him to private school, at age 6 have I totally screwed up his life??

This type of mental escalation can drive not only me crazy but my husband. So I choose not to share my latest neurotic episode with him. It helps that he was still sleeping.

Please tell me you all have moments like this?

I start to really stress about, am I doing the right things for Charlie?

I've worked myself up half way to tears, when something very important occurred to me.

He's kind, well adjusted, has a big heart and an old soul, but most importantly, Charlie is a happy boy!

OOPS! HOW DID THAT GET THERE? BTW, are kids even allowed to be miserable at Disney? Isn't that against the law or something?

Let try this again.

He's a happy boy!

And the bottom line is, isn't that what we want for our children?

My friend from high school, just lost someone she cares about in a robbery shooting. I'm often time scared for our children, and how they are right now so innocent in a world that can be as ugly just as much as it can be beautiful.

Eventually, they will grow to see this; I want to prolong that as long as possible. My wish is for a better more peaceful world for them.

And I want my son to be happy, in whatever he does, be it doctor, lawyer, plumber; I just want happiness for him.

And I think, yeah, I make a lot of mistakes, and probably Drake and Josh is inappropriate, but you know what, snuggling on the couch together never is, and for that moment we are happy!XOXO

Charlie's (and Gracie's) December in Pictorial Review

2009-01-08T08:44:00.002-05:00

For the most part, because his birthday is so close to Christmas, Charlie's December was like:

And this:
And this:

And more of this:

Makes for a long year this way. Not one of my better plans, having a December baby.

But you say, "What about Gracie? Doesn't she get something too?"

Rest assured you don't have to worry about Gracie! She got presents under the tree and a stocking too.

Santa would never forget Gracie. Hell hath no fury like Gracie mad. Just ask any piece of ribbon or cat toy we own.

Will Wii Ever Get "Fit"?

2009-01-07T11:28:00.004-05:00

Radio: Are you a woman between the ages of 25-45 that has stubborn belly fat?
Charlie: Yes
Radio: Are you struggling to loose 5-10lbs?
Charlie: Yes
Me: What is this all about?
Charlie: Oh, I'm answering for you!
Me: Thanks.
Charlie: No, I love your chub, I know you don't like it, maybe you should take those pills to make your chub go away.

Out of the mouths of babes.

But the truth is he's right. For my health and state of mental well being, I need to be and live more healthy and part of that is exercising. Unfortunately, with the state of my job somewhat, OK, down right murky, I've figured I could forgo the nearly $200 a month for a gym membership.

No problem! I'm going to walk more and buy a Wii Fit!

Waah wah.....

I'm not sure if you know, I didn't because I apparently live in a cave, but there is not a Wii Fit to be found in this country; as I found out going to Target, Best Buy, Game Stop and Toy r' Us!

The guy at Target was down right charming.

Me: Excuse me, do you have the Wii Fit.

Associate: No.

Me: Um, no you don't have them, or no you don't carry them?

Associate: Are you kidding? People stand in line well before the store opens to get them, and your like the 25th person that's asked me today.

Me: Well excuse me, I now consider myself enlightened. Thanks!

Associate: (Half laughing) yeah, good luck with your search.

OK! I will not buy my Wii Fit there! I don't care if they are the last store on the planet, I will....

wait a second, they have them on Amazon but ahhhh.. there going for at least 100% mark up.

I refuse to give into that Cabbage Patch Doll got-to-have-it mentality of 1984.

But if I'm 100% honest, I do consider it. I seriously consider it. It's funny how when you WANT something that's in great demand and short supply, all of a sudden you can loose all of your sense of practicality and the item is upgraded in your mind to a MUST HAVE!

And if I'm going to be even more honest, the old me would have bought it anyway.

Deep Breath!

A new year, new thought process.

And I didn't buy it!

YAY ME! I didn't give into this scam and the mind games that the advertising world put before me!!

BUT... I supose while I'm on the honesty train:

I did buy from the drugstore '3-day Red Carpet Diet' which is clinically tested to give you a flatter abdomen, less bloating and more energy.

BUT ONLY TO HOLD ME OVER UNTIL I GET A Wii FIT!

OK! Baby steps, I'm taking baby steps! Rome wasn't created in a day you know.

And besides, the Wii Fit should be available in stores any day now... right???

Oh, I can just hear that sassy associate from Target laughing right now....

Trip To The Center Of Town!

2009-01-06T08:57:00.008-05:00

My friend Amy L. calls this time of year "Janufeb". Janufeb is the notion that January and February are actually blended together in one long month. One very long, dark, cold, snowy, icy month that never seems to end.

I tend to get the Janufeb blahs. This year to combat this I decided to spend more time outside. My son and I are Sagittarius, and as such need to be outside, although my basic survival instinct, (and forever frozen feet) tell me to stay inside where it's a warm.

So yesterday, Charlie and I decided (well I decided, he protested) to out for some much needed Vitamin D.

We walked to the center of town.

The trip down to town included Charlie picking up every boulder of snow he could find and throw and smash. This took up %70 of the trip.

We eventually made it to the grocery store.

My gut told me this was not a good idea.

And like my father always says, "Go with your gut!"

We went to the bank, where Charlie wanted to push the buttons to the ATM; then to my make-up store, 'Making Faces' where he smelled every bath and shower gel he could put his hands on; and finally down to the ice cream store for ice cream cone.

Yes, Charlie wanted ice cream! It's freezing cold out and the kid wants ice cream!

When we got there, all the ice cream scoops were all in the dishwasher, so we had to be patient.

As patient as you can get I guess, being six and waiting for a scoop of cake batter ice cream.

Not to fear! He got his cone, just in time to eat it in the freezing cold!

I don't think Janufeb is bothering this kid.

On his way home we walked by his old school Kid Connection and had a nice visit with Ms. Tracey!

Charlie and I have great times and conversations when we walk, I was wondering why we didn't do this more often. It also occurred to me that he's six, and we're about through a 1/3 of our journey before he goes off to college. These six years have gone by so quickly, it's scary. Seems like yesterday we were still waiting for his belly-button to fall off.

This little sentimental thought, I had to keep reminding myself through the remainder of the walk; That as frustrating at times it may be when your in "adult and or parent mode", and you want to get things done quickly, you got to take a step back and really enjoy these little moments that are so fleeting.

So enjoy your little ones or not so little ones today, and the little moments that make life so beautiful and wonderful!

XOXO - Sarah

Meet Our Son, Charlie Clappowitz!

2009-01-05T09:16:00.005-05:00

The month of December found us in full celebration mode, and on top of Christmas, birthdays, etc., my son decided that he wanted to also celebrate Hanukkah.

I gave him the official Hanukkah litmus test and asked him why he wanted to celebrate Hanukkah, expecting to get the answer I would give as a child; eight nights of presents.

Charlie: Because I want to learn about it.

So I went to my husband Rich and told him.

Rich: Yeah, he told me the same thing. I've been looking for a menorah.

Sarah: All I know about Hanukkah is that the king of Egypt wanted a son, but couldn't have one, so he would send troops to the village to go to every door looking for a son. On the eighth night Moses' mother put him in a basket and sent him down the river because she couldn't afford to keep him, and the beautiful queen Isis found him, brought him to the king and they rejoiced because they had a son. And for 8 nights they all celebrated by lighting candles and eating potato pancakes.

Rich: This is why you don't home school!

Sarah: Mmmm.. potato pancakes.

Rich: You are confusing Passover with Hanukkah! Isis?

Sarah: Is he still talking?

Rich: Wah wah wah, wah...wah wah..

So I called our neighbors the Schwartz family and asked them if it would be OK if we celebrated Hanukkah, because Charlie wanted to learn. (At this point he was telling people he was Jewish.)
They were awesome! They gave him a Hanukkah starter set, with a homemade menorah, candles, a family potato pancake recipe with homemade apple sauce, a dreidel and gelt and a gift, which was the book "Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins" which Charlie loved and still we read to him. They also invited us to a Hanukkah celebration at there home where we ate potato pancakes, listen to stories, songs, and poems while the children lit candles on individual menorahs.

And Rich was right. It had nothing to do with Isis!

It was a lovely time and we look forward to celebrating next year.

Good thing Charlie keeps us so well rounded or else we would have missed learning and celebrating this wonderful holiday!

Shalom!

XOXOXO!

Happy New Year!

2009-01-04T14:56:00.005-05:00

Happy New Year everyone!

I'm happy to be back blogging again. Decembers are always tough for me, my son's birthday, ( his "friend party" and "family party" to plan) my birthday, my brother's birthday, my sister-in-law's birthday and one out of every three of our friend's birthday fall in this month; basic holiday stress, creating the Clapp dysfunctional family photo, sending out those cards, preparing for and going to parties, shopping etc., On top of it all, I was without a car for a few weeks and once it was fixed, it snowed for three days straight and couldn't drive it! So, a few years ago, I had vowed to make my December as simple as possible, thus giving up my blog for the month of December.

Clapp dysfunctional family photo 2008. The "one" out of 234 pictures; lots of Charlie making crazy faces, eyes shut, mouths open, Rich getting frustrated with Charlie, me with both, to get this smiley picture for our holiday card! Good thing it came out OK, because we'd all had it by this point.

But, as I already mentioned; it's great to be back.

I look forward to catching up on my favorite blogs and sharing the New Year and all it has to offer with you.

New Year always finds me making resolutions that I never keep. This year, I decided to set goals for myself per month; whether it be weight-loss, things that I've neglected that need to be done, I'm hoping a per month strategy might work.

My goals for January are:

Get a Will made up.

Read one inspirational fiction novel.

Write Thank you notes.

Put away Christmas Decorations

Visit my parents

Cut cost and save more.

Be Greener. Walk into town in stead of drive, bring recyclable bags, turn off lights, borrow books from library etc.

Keep up on my fellow blogger's blogs.

Live life to it's fullest, more bravely, and with more passion!

(Some of these goals; OK most will repeat each month.)

Hope this year is finding you very importantly, Happy and Healthy.

A friend of mine gave me a birthday card, which words I will leave you with:

"Forget years, forget calories.

If you must count something,

count friends.

That will keep you busy!"

Happy New Year!!

XOXO Sarah

From my Bloggie Archives -Reason #372 Why It's Great To Have A Kid

2008-12-04T06:59:00.001-05:00

This post is a repost from my earlier bloggie days. It's one of my favorites!

Because those times when you found out too late you're out of toilet paper, you have someone to run down to the basement to get you more.

Charlie Quote Of The Day.

2008-12-02T13:59:00.002-05:00

My mother and Charlie were talking about candy and how much she loved lollipops...

Charlie: I always get a lollipop when I go to the doctors!
Mimi: I bet that's your favorite part about going to the doctors, isn't it?
Charlie: Nah, taking off all my clothes, so I'm only in my underwear is.

Happy Thanksgiving EVERYONE!

2008-11-26T11:55:00.005-05:00

Each Thanksgiving my husband pulls this out of the depths of our basement and wears it to work!

I'm Thankful for so much; mostly my friends, (real and cyber), and my family.

I'm guessing I won't have time to post tomorrow, but wanted to wish you all a very 'Happy Thanksgiving'.

Peace, Love, and Blessings! Sarah XOXOXO

Is It Safe To Come Out?

2008-11-25T15:58:00.002-05:00

Last week was not a banner week in my life. I just found out that I'm losing my job that I love, love, love; on top of that, I was terribly sick, found my first gray hair, and started to break out!! (How is this fair??) YIKES!

However, this week is looking up. My dear friend from college and old AOII sorority sister who I haven't seen in months and months stopped by yesterday, I've lost 10 lbs in the past two weeks, and it's a Thanksgiving this week! (Just in time to put it all back on!)

I'm sorry that I haven't been blog hopping. I guess I just haven't had much of a heart to do so. But I will try to be better, because I miss you all.

Love and kisses!

Sarah

New Discovery!!

2008-11-13T14:32:00.005-05:00

My co-worker Linda T. has the best skin. A year ago, I commented on it, and she said that she used 'Bare Minerals'. I've seen it on TV, and was curious, but we didn't have a Sephora and I don't normally order stuff from TV, so I never got it.

Well, last week when I went to pick up my glasses, I noticed they had opened a Sephora in our mall, AND a Bare Minerals store. So I went in, and now I'm totally hooked. I LOVE IT!

Here are some other make-up must haves! It's amazing how much make-up I wear, just to look natural.

Smashbox Inter-mix. This is a compact with pink, yellow, and brown stripes and does wonders for making me look like I have a pulse.
Smashbox - Silicone primer. It's not just for boobies anymore. This is the perfect primer to put on before your foundation. There is nothing like it.
Nars lipstick in "Promiscuous" it's very natural and neutral without being too pink or too orange or too brown.
Too Faced Lash Injection mascara. The wand brush is HUGE but gives you out of this world thick dramatic lashes.
A great brush set! - I love my Paula Dorf brushes.
Kate Somerville Kate in a Jar (or I think it's called Exfola-kate now.)
And I'm totally loving Marc Jacobs 'Daisy' perfume!
Channel nail polish in 'Vamp'. (I know this is so last year, so 1998 but I don't care! I still love it!)

Love to hear what products wouldn't be able to live with out, or what makes you feel uber glamorous!

Happy Birthday Junne Bug!

2008-11-12T12:40:00.004-05:00

This lovely little girl is 7 years old today! But don't let her beauty fool you; she's one tough chick with her motorcycle (yes, she has a real motorcycle!) and sassy way of keeping Charlie and the rest of the boys in line! (She's just like her mother!) You go girl!!! Happy Birthday Sweetie! I hope it's the best year yet!

XOXOX

Eye Want Breakfast!

2008-11-11T10:13:00.004-05:00

I never know what Charlie is going to ask to have for breakfast. Because it's the most important meal of the day, we let him pick what he wants (within reason) to ensure that he'll eat it. It also gives him a feeling of control in a world where he pretty much has none.

And what he wants is pretty typical; eggs, grilled cheese, pancakes etc., easy enough.

But today he wanted deviled eggs made to look like creepy eyeballs.

I resisted, he begged. I resisted more, he continued to beg. After all, it's kind of gross, too much time, etc. Then I thought, "What the heck?" It's a holiday, we're not doing anything, and a boy does have to eat. So I made them.

Basically, this is the recipe for deviled eggs, only you put blue food coloring in to make the yellow part green, and take a toothpick with red food coloring and draw the veins; add a black olive and Ta-da! We got this recipe in last months 'National Geographic For Kids'.

The breakfast of champions?

Separated At Birth?

2008-11-06T08:42:00.007-05:00

As we move full throttle into the holiday season, (I actually heard Christmas songs on the radio this morning) I thought I share this photo comparison of Charlie and my favorite holiday hero "Ralphie" from "A Christmas Story". People have always said that Charlie looks like Ralphie, but didn't realize how much until we were trying on glasses while waiting for my eye doctor appointment.

Can you tell who's who?

We would never punish him by putting soap in his mouth, or else he might become blind with "soap poisoning".

Maybe next year for Halloween he should be a deranged Easter Bunny???

OOOHHHH - F-U-U-D-D-G-G-E!!!!!!!

I'm Glad!!!

2008-11-05T08:13:00.006-05:00

I'm glad!!! Isn't that a great phrase! Life can be consuming sometimes; neighbors can be difficult, work can be challenging, motherhood, while bringing tons of joy, can want to make you scream from time to time. But there's is so much to be glad for.

I've said it before, and I'll say it again. I'm glad Soccer is over! Charlie wants to do it again in the spring, so we'll sign him up, be at every practice and game, and cheer him on. But, I'm so glad for the next few months were all done with game time performances like:

And this (although very cute):

Dude, you're supposed to be on the field playing now! It's not snack time! LOL!!

I'm glad the elections are OVER! And while my candidate McCain did not win. (Love me or hate me I'm a Republican - although I hope you'd not hate me for this reason alone.) I support President-elect Obama and truly want to see him succeed and do well by our country. I'm always proud to be part of this great country, and to be an American, no matter who is in office. I'm also GLAD the political ads will now stop, as I think it was causing some stress for my 5 year old. He said to me and Rich a few days ago out of the blue, "I don't know how to vote on Question 3". (This was a vote to eliminate dog racing in our state.) He said to us, "I don't want people to loose their jobs, but I also like dogs and want them to be OK.". Charlie was a big Obama supporter so I know he's thrilled with the out come when he wakes up this morning.

I'm glad the holiday season is upon us. I love spending time with family and friends and how peace on earth and the spirit of giving is "in the air". I love the smell of evergreens, and fresh baked cookies. I love this time of year.

Wishing you all a wonderful day, full of things to be glad for!

XOXOX - Sarah