Top Secret Pixie Dust! A Surprise 13th Birthday PTR! NEW! TRIP REPORT LINK PAGE 220!

[ladybugmom]

LOVE the pic!! Bo is looking very festive!!!

 

[Native NYer]

The video is great! I love the ears
And I love Bo's festive attire. He would have looked great marching in Wednesday's parade up 5th Ave.

 

[disneyfan61]

Bo looks great in green!!

 

[Happydog]

Hey CP! Just checking in on you -- did you see the announcement with the CBR blog? Looks right up your alley!

 

[dddisrunner]

LOVE, LOVE the Irish Bo!!! That was so GREAT of Anita to do that!!! I read the CBR blog off of the front page and thought of you!!!!

 

[Charleston Princess]

YAY for VERA! NOW I gotta go back for a second look...

BOO for teenagedom, and little girls with curls... But thankfully they grow out of it!

And HA for the daughter who has it alllllll planned out! Good grief!

Can't wait to see what you get! Can't wait to hear about these plans you are scheming... And you are right! Nassau looks practically like CBR, or CBR looks practically like it belongs in Nassau. But frankly, I prefer CBR.

Wait till you see Castaway Cay! Oh! And I have heard rumor they are going to build a resort there at Castaway Cay.... wouldn't that be amazing!??!!

OH! because you asked -- no I don't use a wallet with the mail bag b/c it has all the card slots you need and little places for cash in the front. that is why I like it. I do take a little cosmetic bag with me.

Hi, Happydog! Luckily with teenagers (or girls who think they are teenagers even though their 13th birthday is still four months away), some days are better than others. Last week was pretty quiet on the drama front, but that may have been because she was laid low by a nasty head cold.

Castaway Cay does look amazing! Sign me up for the resort and an endless supply of drinks in plastic coconuts!

I am in love with my new mailbag! Haven't tried it out yet, but I adore all the space in it! It's going to be absolutely perfect!

I love Chelseas new lifestyle!! I promise in 4 years you can laugh at me when I'm going through it with Patrick!!

I don't know HOW you are going to keep this secret but I'm pretty sure God forgives your lies when they are well meant!

Oh, I do my fair share of laughing! It's the only way to maintain my sanity.

Wait until you hear the latest on trying to keep the trip a secret!

Ohhhh. I know Bo! Ok, now that's going to be really cool to include him in the reveal!

I'm glad you decided on your VB purchases and can't wait to see what you got.

I have to tell you, as I have always told others, the hardest years in raising Katie have been Age 7, Age 12 and Age 17. Age 7 is when she learned that she could manipulate us (and others) to get her desired outcome. Learning to respond to that was interesting. Age 12 - I don't know but it was REALLY, REALLY hard for us. It was hard to motivate her to do anything. She was still a little girl, but almost a teenager, gaining some independence, but afraid to branch out too far from home, learning morals and values and watching others, trying to decide where her own morals and values fit in with being friends with them.

Age 17 - Well, just wait. It is not fun.

But you're right, it passes, eventually. And at the end of the day, it's family and everyone loves each other underneath all of the drama.

I remember my own 17th year of existence. Hence, my repeated apologies to my mother now that I am older and wiser!

I am laughing so very hard right now. Nice try Chelsea next time pick a class your mom doesn't teach. Love how she has your trip all planned out for you!

Wasn't that a hoot??? Sometimes Chelsea doesn't think things through to their natural conclusions.

see now her response makes me worry she's peeking! Isn't she close on the dates?

Unsettled... I love that!

So sorry about the social versus grade situation but endorse the new lifestyle.

It is draining on the parents though!

Taylor and Evan are living similar lives right now.

It seems to be working pretty well right now. We'll see if it lasts through this last nine weeks.

I am pretty sure Chelsea hasn't peeked -- we just have an uncanny way of thinking alike sometimes, and some of the things she said, she has said before many times, so I have been squirreling them away in my mind.

In my Middle School career I found 7th grade the most adventurous to teach, because 6th grader are still a little afraid to grow up, and the 8th graders think they are grown up and ready to lead the school. 7th grade students are like the middle child they can't decided where they fit in , so they act out to be noticed. So you have next year to look forward to where Chelsea thinks she knows everything. Then in the 9th grade she will realize the seniors know everything.

That is why when I thought I can't take teaching another year, I did not change careers I changed grade levels. Every year ever grade level was a different adventure. After living with a middle schooler next time you meet with a parent you will be able to speak for experience.

Now I enjoy retirement and memories of my middle school career. When I get think I miss teaching I volunteer at my old school. That way I get to interact with the students with no afternoons of planning or grading.

Best wishes for the next 45 days. When is your spring break?

Our spring break is the first full week of April. Can't wait. I am in desperate need of some time off before we start the madness of CRCT testing. I am the same way -- since every grade is so different, I have a tendency to switch when I get bored with one of them.

Oh wow...I hope the next 45 days go by quickly for you!

It's funny that she feels "unsettled" and that she has it all planned out the way she wants! Awesome that she said you guys need to stay at CBR, too -- at least you know she'll be super excited when she finds out.

I laughed so hard at the belly button conversation with Connor! I never would have thought of getting it "filled."

Chelsea has responded well to the brainwashing. LOL! Connor has such a different way of thinking about things -- he keeps us laughing.

I can't wait to see what your Vera's.

Connor's belly button conersation

Chelsea feeling "unsettled" I think it is great that you are keeping the trip a surprise.

Connor comes up with the strangest things! I don't know what goes on in his mind sometimes.

Hmmm, middle schoolers can be sneaky but it's not so effective when your own mother is your teacher. Hahaha!! Poor Chelsea. That really made me laugh. The conversation with Connor made me giggle too. He's a hoot! Filled in?! Oh funny stuff!

What was Chelsea thinking???

I had to check out the Vera's after reading your posts. I talked myself out of ordering anything as I so don't need a new purse!

Sorry about the problems with Chelsea, been there with my sons, only boys are not so dramatic or social. I 'm so thankful that cell phones were not in use then. I know we would be at odds over that because I would have to say no cell phone until you are on your own!

Chelsea is going to be so surprised at the big reveal. I'm so glad that she hasn't decided that WDW is uncool for a teen.

I have been very lucky with Chelsea and her love of WDW. I was the same way as a teenager -- I never went through a phase when I didn't want to go. In fact, even in my rebellious junior/senior years of high school, I wanted to go. One time I convinced my best friend to drive down there for about three days because she had never been there. That was quite the road trip!

 

[Charleston Princess]

Ok, can I just say that I am totally cracking up that Chelsea tried to say she didn't know she had a test when her mom is the teacher!

Didn't that just take the cake? I think she is so programmed to use that as an excuse (which has never worked so I don't know why she keeps using it) that it just came out.

I know I'm not going to be telling you anything that you don't already know, but here it goes. Justin's worst year of school to date was 7th grade, he stayed on the honor roll, but I had to be on top of him constantly that year! I think it's just such a huge adjustment from elementary school, they have more freedom and more responsibility - it just takes them awhile to adjust. I was THRILLED when summer arrived last year and the 7th grade was over! This year has been much better, I still have to keep an eye on things, but I don't have to ride him like I did a year ago. He is much more organized and self motivated this year. Hang in there!!!

I have noticed that happening consistently over my years of teaching so I hope it holds true for Chelsea.

Of course, all that being said - we just had a lifestyle change in this house too. I got our cell phone bill the other day and Justin had nearly 10,000 text messages. I couldn't figure out how he could possibly find enough hours in the day to have that many messages! So, I look at our bill detail on line and see that he is texting well past midnight Now, Sunday thru Thursday he is required to turn in his phone at 10:00.......

Yep, that sounds about right! Chelsea had 7,000 texts last month! I don't know about you, but I know I don't have anything that interesting to say! LOL!

Even my eighth-grader laughed at Chelsa saying she didn't know she had the test on Monday (when her mom is her teacher!)

Too much!

Funny how she is already "planning" her birthday trip... tee-hee-hee!


Kathy

I wonder if Chelsea thought she could get away with it because she didn't realize I was in the kitchen at the time. Like Charles and I don't talk or something.

She has it all planned out what she wants.

Oh my! I think I am going to be in trouble once mine hits Chelsea's age. I am already struggling as it is to keep up with a 6 year old!

Love the idea for a Bo reveal of the big secret! And you even have accomplices! That is too cool!

Can't wait to see the Veras. I still haven't placed an order. I keep hoping my pattern goes on sale before our trip.

It's been an interesting year with Chelsea to say the least.

The Veras arrived this week which helped my mood -- more on the later.

I think your plan for Chelsea sounds like a good lesson in staying on top of things and some good practical parenting on your part!
Also congrats to Chelsea for those scores!

I love it that she is so much like her mama and needs her Disney fix each summer!
Oh and hi from Missouri!

This parenting thing is harder than I ever imagined.

She is so much like me it's scary -- everything from Disney to her procrastination.

Hope you make it home safely today, Wigd!

OK - at the belly button conversation. I can see his point though. Why just have it sit there getting full of dirt and lint?

Chelsea - what a goofball! I just laughed - try to fool your mom, the teacher! HA! I agree with the changes you have implemented. We have already had to do some things like that around here with computer/tv time and Sarah's only 9. I can only imagine what is coming. Thanks to you, I will be more prepared thought!

I'm really glad that she's into CBR - that is a big "WHEW" for you. When are you planning to reveal all this to her? I imagine she'll be asking again before too long.

I checked out the VB site too. I really like the pink cupcake and one of the blue designs, but I can't remember the name. I think I'd like a hipster for the parks, since it's so lightweight, but I have put myself on an "only if you need it" budget. As much as I try to convince myself, I really don't need it. I've survived without it this long. Maybe I'll get one for an early birthday gift before our trip (my b-day is end of August), but for now, I have resisted. It sucks.

Connor really is too funny about his belly button.

I am hoping the rules help Chelsea -- she did admit to me that she likes the structure during the week, but thinks she should be allowed to have her cell phone after she finishes studying. Well, that won't happen this year, but maybe next school year.

I am about to be on the only-if-you-need-it budget. More on that later.

Sheree, don't fight the urge with Vera, just say YES!

Jackie, I read the Connor conversation to Marc as he was driving. I must admit I was laughing so hard at him filling it it in I was crying!

Wigd -- our favorite Vera enabler!

I wish you could have heard Connor saying it -- he was so serious!

Jackie - Your kids crack me up!! I can see that belly-button conversation happening at our house! I'm glad I don't have a middle schooler yet!

Can't wait to see what bags you decided on!

Chelsea and Connor crack me up too -- there is a lot of laughter in our house from things they say. The other night Charles walked in, and I was completely wrapped up in the book I was reading. When I looked up, he said, "Wow! You look a little crazy!" Connor piped up, "Ah, what every woman wants to hear!"

I can't believe Chelsea tried to say she didn't know when her final was when you're her teacher! I guess a girl's gotta try, huh?

She'll be so happy to hear that you're staying at CBR!

Oh, Chelsea knew about the final -- she was just trying to get out of being in trouble.

I can't wait to see what you purchased from Vera Bradley!!!! WOW...about Chelsea. It must be hard being Chelsea's teacher and parent!!!! Yikes, I hope her priorities get in line sooner rather than later, sounds like they are headed in the right direction though!!

I am in love with my new Vera stuff! It isn't hard being both Chelsea's teacher and parent -- I think I expect her to do better in my class because of it.

Jackie,
So you're telling me this is what I have to look forward to with Madi???????

I'm glad Chelsea did well on her finals!!!

I cannot wait to see your bags!!!!

Oh, yes, enjoy the drama free years with Madi while you can, Cass, because the rough ones will be a comin'.

 

[Charleston Princess]

I can't even say give her an "A" for effort! LOL I agree completely with the lifestyle change. I've had to do that with Hannah and she's only 7! Alison could really use one. But, since she doesn't live with us, it's a lot harder. Her last progress report was atrocious. In one of her classes she's got a ton of zeros for not doing her work. Clay really lit in to her over that but, unfortunately, as long as her Mom keeps making excuses for her nothing is going to change. That girl is in for a hard road later in life.

Conner and the belly button conversation was priceless!

Poor Alison. It's too bad that her mom makes excuses for her. If it's one thing I hope to teach my kids, it's to take responsibility for their actions. One of my pet peeves is the whole, "It's not my fault" line of comments.

I know the stage that Chelsea is going through I was there not very long ago. Luckily she has a very supportive mother to give her a good head on her shoulders!

So funny about the table conversations, it sounds like conversations i've had in the past with some friends!

We're taking it one day at a time -- I do know I have said, "I'm sorry for my teenage years" to my mom an awful lot lately.

Ahhhhahahahaha I was laughing so hard at your last update! First Chelsea saying she didn't know she had an exam and then Connor asking about his belly button!! That is really funny stuff!!!
Congratulations on your Vera purchase....looking forward to see what you ended up with. It is such a rainy and dreary weekend I might have to make a stop at my local store that carries them.
So funny about Chelsea wanting to stay at CBR She is going to be super excited about that!!! I would not be able to keep that from her though! I am just horrible at lying...I start laughing and I can't stop!

Tracy

Our kids make us laugh and give us gray hairs in equal measures, that's for sure.

I am a very good liar at times.

Sorry to hear about the slight issue with Chelsea! Honestly, I know that the "lifestyle changes" my parents would enforce on me during middle and high school definitely made a difference. When I got in trouble for doing something, I got punished therefore I never (usually) did it again. At least she's not shy, right?

That belly button convo is hilarious!!

And you will be forgiven for lying to Chelsea too...it's for a good cause! The ends justify the means, right?

Shy is an adjective I would never use with Chelsea.

Chelsea tends to be so stubborn -- we have had this issue over and over again this year, so I hope the more drastic measures stink into her thick skull. LOL!

Couple things.

One, love the Cupcakes Pink. If I was having a girl, I'd so planned on buying a diaper bag in that print, because it is just adorable.

Alas, I'm having a boy. No Cupcakes Pink for me, so I'll be content to live vicarously through you, miss.

But there are some very cute darker colors that would work well for a boy's diaper bag...

Two, I know it's probably frustrating to be going through this with Chelsea. It sounds like you've got a good game plan.

On the upside of the situation, to devil's advocate with you a little, there is something to be grateful about in this scenario. I would never ever deny the importance of education (as you know, I want to go back to school to teach!) but the good thing is that your daughter is obviously quite adept at her social skills and that in and of itself is a blessing.

I was not. At that age, anyway. I had my friends, but I was more of a geek, and I did my work, and studied, but I can distinctly remember what a weird time middle school is. Of course you know, since you teach those grades. All those hormones! At any rate, I'm glad you've got a good action plan and I'm sure things will be better from now on.

I have a funny story that goes along with this. I was the same way in middle school. Very shy, very introverted, very much concerned with studying, etc. Well, that's not Chelsea, by any stretch of the imagination. Towards the beginning of the year, I was standing and talking to Chelsea's math and social studies teachers, and we were talking about kids that are so concerned with their grades and studying, they don't know how to interact with their peers. Now, here is the IRONIC part. I said, "I am so glad Chelsea is social and has other interests besides just studying." Yep, I said that. Never again will I jinx myself like that. LOL!

I think it's too funny that she's getting antsy about your lack of trip planning. Have you ever thought of telling them you're going somewhere else just to throw them off?

Nah, because my kids love traveling so much that no matter where I say we are going, they would get super excited and do all sorts of their own planning. Then, I would run the risk of disappointing them when I said we are headed to WDW. It could be disastrous.

First I apologize for not posting. I have been lurking
I am happy your change in plans is a postive one!
Excited to see your Vera selections!
Your conversations with Conner should be written into a book, whenever you share, they always make me smile!

Thanks for coming out of lurkdom! Connor is full of witty sayings -- he has such a great sense of humor and timing.

Thank goodness I just stumbled into your ptr! I love that you put chapter links so I could read everything without having to scan through comments. (I love reading others' comments while the trip report is in progress, but when I am months behind...ugh. I have a terrible habit of having to read the entire report in one sitting!) We will be there the same time at AKV and BCV.

Were you so excited that Chelsea said CBR instead of GF. That would have made me sigh a huge relief! Was Chelsea earlier than her due date? Maybe you could have dinner at Teppan Edo on the date she was due to be born? Maybe the same day of the week? Just a thought.

Debby

Welcome!!! I am so glad to have you reading along! You will love AKV! It is my favorite resort, and if we were celebrating my birthday, that's where we would be!

Chelsea was a couple of days early -- not much though.

what was she thinking???

so funny!

my friend jen's little boy, lex, who's 4, asked his mom how babies ate while they're in their mommy's bellies recently. she went into the whole thing about how the baby is connected by the umbilical cord and that it becomes your belly button and that the doctor cuts it when the baby is born. she said he gave her this horrified look when she said the doctor cut it off and then he pulled down his pants, looked at his private and shook his head vigorously, saying, "no, look momma, i still have mine!!!!"

I love that story about Lex! Kids always crack me up!

Your last update was hilarious! Chelsea knows you as well as you know her.

That's for sure!

Haha that was such a cute video. I Lol'd when charles was wearing a cap during a massage lol

Wasn't that funny??? I couldn't stop laughing when I saw it!

 

[Lovemy3babes]

LOL! Hilarious! Happy St. Patty's Day Bo!

 

[Charleston Princess]

Connor and Chelsea are hilarious. I got such a laugh reading that. Chelsea's new lifestyle sounds like a great improvement. Now she has inspiration to do all her work. Not knowing about the test when her mom is the teacher is too much. I was never able to teach my kids or even sub. for them.
I never heard about that magical vacation website. When I clicked on your video I heard the music but it never went past the first face in bed. Off to go make my own.
Have a good day!

Did you make your own video? I am hoping the allure of having a social life and her social networking devices on the weekend will help her stay focused during the week.

We have had some wacky conversations at our house, too.

With Chelsea, the bad news is the worst is yet to come.
The good news is, in time, the best follows it, and the worst becomes a fading memory.

Sigh. I hope I survive the worst!

Cute video! I cracked up doing ours as well - they are so funny!

I wonder if you could find a way to fit that into the surprise reveal of the trip to your kids...

It would have been a fun part of the reveal, but I had to show everyone last Sunday. I couldn't resist! LOL!

I don't think I realized you were one of Chelsea's teachers!

Can't wait to see what goodies you got from Vera.

Yes, at our school, I was the only G and T teacher for several years -- last year was the first year we had another one. So, I didn't really have much choice about teaching Chelsea -- I would never have done so if I could have avoided it -- she and I have clashed for far too long. We have made it work though for the most part.

Loved the video, I also think it could fit into the reveal.

I just had to share it with the family. It was too funny to keep to myself for four more months.

Is that what you stayed up late working on? Looked like those floating head people had a nice vacation. I want the massage you were getting. Ahhhhhhh.

I want that massage, too! I have way too much tension in my neck and shoulders these days.

nice cucumbers on the eyes!

Aren't those funny!!!???

I find the whole "I didn't know the final was on Monday" when you are her actual teacher so hilarious.

You have trained Chelsea really well on the need of a Disney trip.

Chelsea was clearly responding on instinct with that one -- if she had thought about it, she would have known that would never have passed without comment.

The brainwashing may have worked a tad too well. Just wait until I update in a little bit.

That video was cute. I love the way Charles had cucumbers on over his glasses!! And how you both looked like the kids with your mickey ears on!

The Mickey ears part was one of my favorites -- especially because Charles would NEVER wear Mouse ears willingly!

Love the belly button conversation Yeah I have a 17 year old & we have to always ask about homework & monitor the Xbox playing & computer time as well. I love having the online parent portal so you can check on all the assignments & what grades they are getting.

Checking grades online has been a lifesaver this year!

As far as VB I ordered the pink cupcake. Pink is my favorite color & I liked the other pink design but it was not on sale so I went with the cupcake. Cannot wait to get it!! Anxious to see your purchases.

I have loved that pattern since it came out last year, but I have a problem paying full price for Vera stuff.

That is so funny about Chelsea asking about your summer trip and saying that you have to stay at CB. Somebody better get Bo dolled up soon!!

Oh & I love the video. Charles Mickey head on a little body..too funny!!

Chelsea is very decisive about her birthday wishes!

 

[Charleston Princess]

Hahha what a fun video!! Charles was everywhere!!! Loved your fist pumping and thumbs up when your luggage arrived in your room

Tracy

Apparently I found the luggage delivery quite exciting! LOL!

New Vera! Very nice. I will admit I've never been a Vera person and I think its because I am so old that I remember when stuff like that was big during the 70's. I had a hard time when bell bottoms came back, too!

Chelsea....my,my, my.....a little social butterfly.... I know its tough when they start ignoring their homework. I have one just like that and it hasn't gotten any better.

But I do feel bad for her because she is already asking about your Disney trip. How will you ever keep her in the dark until July?

Social butterfly is an apt description. She is just as flittery, too!

I am not sure how we are going to keep either one in the dark for long.

Yay! for new Vera! Can't wait to see what you got! I just ordered one off of ebay myself...addicting!!

As for Chelsea, I hope her lifestyle changes help and the rest of the school year passes without incident. I'm jealous you only have 45 days left!! We've got 60 some...ick!

That is so cool that she is wanting exactly what you have planned. Keeping the secret doesn't get easier. We are 3 weeks away and have almost spilled the beans several times!!

We are down to 40 school days now!

There have been a couple of close calls around here.

Love the video! My favorite part is at Chef Mickey's where "Charles" picks up the food on his plate, brings it up to his mouth and it goes BEHIND his face!!

I didn't even notice that until you pointed it out! Very funny! LOL!

Not being a parent, I don't really have an opinion...

I think your non-punishment is a good response to her social ways.

Chelsea's lifestyle change seems to be working -- at least for these first two weeks.

My darling Wigd, keeps to a budget as well. Unfortunately for me, her budget has no ceiling!

I hope you can find a way to show this to Connor.....

​

I knew Connor would look like a freak if he filled in his belly button!

I got such a good laugh out of your story about Chelsea. It's amazing isn't it what kids think their parents will fall for, although Chelsea's final story was really a reach with you being her teacher.

Clearly, Chelsea is at the age where she believes she is smarter than either Charles or I.

Ha ha ha! I love your video that you made!

I had fun with it!

Hi Jackie!!! Sorry I've been MIA but I'm back!! I do not look forward to my girls being in middle school--uggh!! ANd I have TWO girls at that!! YIKES!! How funny that Chelsea is bugging you about a Disney trip!! Little does she know . . .

She will be so surprised!

Enjoy your years of the girls being little!

I'm sorry you are having such an issue with school work. That seems pretty common were I work with middle schoolers. Most of them will do their homework with us but then don't turn it in... I don't get that concept at all. But I'm surprised that you can teach your own daughter.. I never thought you could do that, that must be hard in itself.

I like how chelsea is choosing what she wants and some of it is very close to what you already have. You are good! hehe

It is a very common thing with middle schoolers. We can teach our own kids, but I would not have chosen to do so if I had a choice. Unfortunately, I am the only G&T teacher for sixth and seventh graders.

 

[Charleston Princess]

How in the world do our kids expect to fool us when we're the teacher?

I was Rachel's Lang. Arts and Math teacher the year she was in 6th grade. The one benefit was that she could never say, "That's not how my teacher said to do it!"

Very true!!! LOL!

Aww, I hope Chelsea's current routine is helping out her grades. But good for you for implementing the "change". Education is so important!

And how funny that she's been asking about a Disney trip! It's going to be a wonderful surprise!

Education has always been a big thing at our house. Chelsea just needs to be reminded of that.

Jackie....that last update...the one before the video posting....made me laugh and cry all at the same time. How easy it is to sit here in my family room and giggle at the oh, so common 7th grade behavior of Miss Chelsea.....but then I begin to cry when I realize that in 7 more years, I am going to be going through the same exact thing!!! AGGGHHHHHHHH!!!! Oh aren't middle schoolers fun!?!?!??! I am on board with you 100% with Chelsea's new "way of life," and think that you will see such an instant change in her grades. BUT, I have to embrace my inner Amy Poehler from SNL when reacting to Chelsea's claim that she didn't know the final was on Monday......Really Chelsea??? REALLY???? Your L.A. teacher tells you for over a week that your final is on Monday, and you even prepare for it in class, and yet believe to NOT know when the final is?!?!? REALLY?? REALLY, REALLY?!?!?!?! And to even top off that little morsel Chelsea, said L.A. teacher is YOUR OWN MOTHER!?!!!!!?!?!? REALLY CHELSEA???? REALLY!?!?!?!?!

Hee hee hee!!!!! I can jest now, but do realize how soon I might be faced with the exact same scenario!!! God love her!!! I hope she did well on it!!! BTW.......you are going to have to tell me what it is like having your own child in class. I know Megs LOVES the idea of me teaching at her school now that she is only in Kindergarten, but what happens once she reaches my grade level? How should I best handle that situation?

I also have to add that I so LOVED her conversation about WDW......she is sneaky....I wonder if she has covertly discovered our little operation going on here.....hope she hasn't gone undercover on the DIS to find out what is up with her annual trip!!!! Won't she be ECSTATIC when she finds out what you have planned?!?!?!! Were you excited to hear that she wants to go to CBR????? That is AWESOME!

Hi, Jen! Yes, sometimes Chelsea's logic eludes me at times!

Really, if I had a choice, I would not have taught Chelsea -- she and I are too much alike and tend to clash. I also think I expect things to be super easy for her in my room because she is my daughter. After all, she has been around me all her life, right? On the other hand, I do like that she is able to do all the units that I absolutely love teaching. I have had to make sure she is very aware of the fact that when we are in the classroom, I am the teacher and not mommy. Sometimes she needs to be reminded of that.

Nah, Chelsea hasn't discovered anything -- she and I are just sometimes on the same wavelength.

Ohhh wow, teenagers My DD is 6 and I am already scared!

I am sorry you are having to "punish" her like that. I am sure you are ready for Summer!!

Great job on nailing her trip wants She will be thrilled.

We are very ready for summer -- no school, pool time, and warm weather. It can't get here soon enough!

Good Morning Jackie!
Look who's already up!
They have some great bags behind the counter at WOD and one ""might" be making it's way home to Kansas.....

Oh, I can't wait to see the new bag! You did buy it, right?

Quit staring at that clown and get back to bed!

But then wouldn't she just be trading one clown for another?

Perhaps that is why Wigd was drawn to the pool clown -- it reminded her of someone special...

You are totally cracking me up over here. What in the world was she thinking with you as her teacher? That is pretty bold. Oh I dread those days with my DD. I am really trying to cherish every moment that I have with her while she is little b/c I know what is coming. I feel for you. I think you are doing the right thing by rocking her world though. I would do the same. Keep us posted on how that goes.

I have one question though.......... how in the world are you getting a preteen, social butterfly to love Disney as much as you? I thought all kids that age thought they were too cool for Disney. I sure hope my DD is like yours when she is that age!

So far, so good.

I have been lucky with Chelsea continuing to adore Disney. I was the same way, though. Even when I was getting into trouble and being a trial to my parents, I was still loving our trips to Disney. I hope that stays true for both of mine.

Poor Shocker!

OOOH...sorry I'm so behind CP!!! Crazy Crazy Craziness abounds!!!! I went through the same phase Chelsea did in about 6th grade and thankfully my parents were a lot like you and Charles and changed my lifestyle and while I wasn't thrilled at time I was eventually thankful to them!!

Can't wait to find out which VB you choose WOOT!! Love me some VB! I think after my move I'm going to reward myself with one of those LOL!!!!

Chelsea...with Disney anxiety..who would have guessed LOL!!!!!!! Can't wait to see how the surprise reveal goes!

Crazy, Crazy Craziness has been the rule of thumb around here, too, lately. Can you say, "I am so ready for spring break"???

I love my new Veras! Can't wait to share pics of them!

 

[Charleston Princess]

I love it!!!

Too cute! I it!!

I love it!

I love it.

Happy St Patty's Day! That photo is awesome! <3 Bo!

That's too funny!

We hooted with laughter at our house over Bo's Irish get-up!

In that get up I don't think Bo's going to get lucky.

That's probably a good thing! LOL!

Now we need to see pictures and/or video of Wigd and Shocker dressing him, which we know some random tourists out there took as they stood there with very puzzled looks on their faces.

'Hey, Mahhhv. Look at those people dressing the big paypah doll!'

Yes, I would love to know what other people were thinking!

That is so great! Makes me laugh everytime I see it.

Me too!

I bet Chelsea just loved her little Irish treat!!!!

She absolutely LOVED it!!!

 

[Charleston Princess]

That's too funny. He's looking like all the people I saw watching the parade yesterday.

that is too much!!

I LOVE Bo's getup! That is awesome!

OH look at Bo! Haha, he is certainly in the spirit!

We love that Wigd and Shocker did that! It was such a great St. Patrick's Day surprise!

And love the Disney video you made, you look so relaxed with the cucumbers! And definitely agree, the ears are the best part!

I had fun with that video!

I received my Vera Bradley today.

Loved the Bo picture.

I received my new Veras last week as well! I do love opening up those pretty boxes they send.

Bo makes quite the Leprechaun -- he even looks like he is dancing a jig!!!!

Yes! He does!!!

That is priceless.

It was the highlight of our St. Patrick's Day!!!

I was waiting to see the pic....I knew that was the morning plan.

Isn't it awesome!!!???

 

[Charleston Princess]

Irish Bo - too funny! Lovin' his red beard.

Holy cow...that is frikkin' hilarious! lmaooo!

Bo is lookin' good. All these nice Dissers are giving him makeovers. Maybe he would like me to give him a hat and sunglasses in May. Hopefully he won't need a poncho or umbrella again.

LOVE the pic!! Bo is looking very festive!!!

The video is great! I love the ears
And I love Bo's festive attire. He would have looked great marching in Wednesday's parade up 5th Ave.

Bo looks great in green!!

Who would have guessed that Bo would become such a celebrity after Chelsea's encounter with him in 2008? We get such a kick out of seeing him dressed up!!!

Hey CP! Just checking in on you -- did you see the announcement with the CBR blog? Looks right up your alley!

I did see the blog post, but haven't read it yet. I am hoping to do so today -- can't wait!!!

LOVE, LOVE the Irish Bo!!! That was so GREAT of Anita to do that!!! I read the CBR blog off of the front page and thought of you!!!!

Anita and Marc are the best!!!

I scrolled through the pictures very quickly, but I plan on going back to read it much more thoroughly.


Whew! Finally caught up on replies! It was a crazy week -- some of it good, some of it bad. I will be back later today with a life update and pics of the pretty new Veras who have come to live at our house.

 

[Charleston Princess]

LOL! Hilarious! Happy St. Patty's Day Bo!

Wasn't that a hoot!!??

 

[Charleston Princess]

New Pretties and More Gloom and Doom!

The Vera order arrived this week. I am in love with my new pretties.

Gotta love that packaging they use.

My new Cupcake Pink mailbag.

I even love the contrasting fabric used for the lining.

This wristlet is in a laminated type of material and was on sale for ten dollars. I think it will be just perfect to toss into the pool bag.

I also bought a make-up bag in Cupcake Green for Chelsea to put in her Easter basket. Since she is currently channeling Joan Jett with her eyeliner, she has quite a collection to put in it. I haven’t gotten a picture of it since someone was around all weekend.

Now on to the not so great news. I feel like I am full of gloom and doom lately, and I apologize because that is so not my personality. I am not the Eeyore of the family -- that role is usually performed by Charles -- but lately, life is conspiring against me.

As some of you know, Charles coaches our school’s girls’ soccer team and has for the past five years. He lives and breathes soccer, and if I can brag a little, is a darn good coach. We went undefeated last year until the last game of the region championship, and this year no other team has scored against us. Well, he has always been paid by the school system as the head soccer coach. This year the school system has changed its rules, and since he is a community coach, he will be paid as the assistant coach even though his actual assistant coach who is a school employee is just there to make sure the girls are picked up each night, etc. She will now be paid the head coach stipend. Completely unjust in my opinion.

We did not find this out until Wednesday -- two weeks before the end of the season. Don’t get me started on how shoddy and underhanded I think that is! Again, a rather large chunk of money that I had been counting on for Disney has been reduced drastically. I was beside myself. I wanted to make a big fuss, and Charles told me not to say anything. He knew nothing would be changed. I laid awake the night we found this out, and by morning had decided that regardless of whether things were changed or not, I needed to voice my displeasure to someone. I opted to talk to my principal -- I have worked for him for ten years, and I knew he would at least listen sympathetically. I talked to him Thursday morning during which I burst into tears at one point (I am so not a crier so that says a lot right there). Not one of my finer moments. My poor principal was scrambling to find tissues for me -- he has never really liked dealing with tears. He was wonderful, and I just really needed him to listen to me.

Added to that drama, Tabasco, our 13-year-old dog, has developed a skin infection so that was another two hundred dollars spent this weekend for a vet visit, a shot, a spray, and an antibiotic.

Anyway, to make a long story short (which I don’t think I have a chance of doing at this point), I am not sure where that leaves us with the trip. I am getting to the point where I am wondering if Someone is trying to tell us that this is not our year for Disney. I think I would be okay with it all, if when all the soccer stuff happened on Wednesday, Charles hadn’t said something about it affecting our chances of going to Disney this year. Connor burst into tears at that point. Not temper tantrum tears, but the kind of tears a person cries when they have been physically hurt. It made my own tears start as well. Poor guy. Charles said, “This is what happens when you brainwash the kids into thinking Disney is the only place worthy of a vacation.” He was joking when he said it though, but I fear he may be right. Anyway, at this point, I am not canceling anything but taking it one day at a time. We’ll see if it all pans out. I have all my fingers and toes crossed -- after all, I have a new bag to use, we have a birthday to celebrate, and the Main Street Electrical Parade is only going to be around until mid-August.

 

[Lady Lallie]

I really feel for you, CP. Things will work out how they are supposed. Disney is always going to be there and don't think of it as canceling but postponing...that is a much better way to look at thing.

 

[stace208]

Oh man Jackie, that's just lousy that they did that to Charles! Poor Connor-I know my kids would be the exact same way. Hugs to all of you!

 

[micandminforever]

There is always Pop Century and the new renovated rooms. I am sure the kids would love it as long as it is Disney, and they have my favorite food court on site.