No Fuss Gus-less

This is going to suck, and I mean BAD. We're making history tonight in the Moxie household . . .

Darling's taking a bath right now, by 8 pm she'll be off to bed. I anticipate all hell breaking loose around 8:05. Why? For the first night in 3.5 years, she's going to bed without her BFF, No Fuss Gus.

Why? Because her babysitter left my child's favorite-can't-live-without lovey in a bank in Kansas. Yep, Babysitter of the Year just struck out. I don't mind Darling running errands with her, but seriously, that's it.

Sounds harsh? Nope. Gus is a member of our family. He's in family photos, he's endured countless surgeries, being dropped in a toilet, ran over with shopping carts, and dog attacks. He's tough, but I expect my daughter to come home in one piece and with her best friend.

When Handsome went to pick Darling up tonight and explained Gus being MIA, Darling burst into tears. She got home and couldn't poop because she HAS to have Gus (why, I don't know) in order to do the deed. She cried again and keeps asking where he is. I explain he's having an adventure sleep over with the bank tellers and enjoying all the lollipops he can eat but she's still upset.

Yes I know she's 3 and a half (4 in August) and shouldn't be so attached to a stuffed animal she's loved since she was 3 months old, but, childhood is hard enough, enjoy the comfort from wherever you can get it. Gus is only a necessity for sleeping, pooping and travelling. It's not like he's going to kindergarten with her. I refuse to limit her lovey time.

So, that's it. If Gus doesn't come home in one piece tomorrow there's going to be hell to pay. In the meantime, while she's screaming tonight, I'm frantically searching Ebay for a replacement. Gus is a Kohl's Cares For Kids stuffed animal and wouldn't ya know, he went out of circulation back in Aught Four.

Lucky me.

Even if I find a replacement, it's never going to be the same. His fur is worn away in patches, his plastic eyes have cataracts from being scuffed in the dryer a thousand times and I've sewed his teethed on/chewed paws so many times, I'm just sewing imagination at this point. Darling will spot the ringer in two seconds flat. Smart my kid is.

I can't wait for 2 am! It's gonna be fun!

My 2 Cents Since I Can't Keep My Mouth Shut

Well said, Logtar. While I'm pretty new at blogging, I've always felt welcome to come to the Meet Ups. Several of you post it on your blogs and invite everyone to join. I may even come sometime soon. Way to be elitist and all.

I freely admit that when you open your personal thoughts up to world wide comment, you have to take it on the chin sometimes if someone takes offense to it and/or you. Bloggers have to have tough skin to a point.

Satire is a slippery slope. Without voice inflection or facial expression, it is more susceptible to misinterpretation. Blogger Who Shall Not Be Named teeters between Satire and Mean.

I honestly was appalled by his complete insensitivity towards the death of a local blogger. For someone who is the self proclaimed promoter of local blogs/bloggers, that seems like a real d-bag thing to do.

At the same time, I think he has every right protected by the Constitution to say what he wants to say. Will I still read him? Sure, until he personally offends me beyond reasonability. In between all the half naked women and Bold Italic type in Red, he occasionally has something worthwhile and semi-insightful to say. I get KC News that I wouldn't get otherwise. He's interesting if nothing else. I even received a link to from him which I thought was cool back in February.

I personally think that he could be a bigger/better force in the City if he wasn't constantly tearing everything about it down and dissing everyone around him. But maybe that's just me.

I find it ironic that he gets fussy about cliques. One of the reasons I started blogging was to use it as an outlet to express what I really think about certain things that no one else around me is interested in. KC History, politics, events, news, parenting, blah, blah blah. I yearned for differing opinions and was tired of repeating the same topics of conversation over and over again. I was tired of talking about theatre and JOCO with my husband's theatre friends. I despise all the KU Basketball/Chiefs talk at work. My best friends are just like me. I wanted to connect to different than me people(in a non-committal way).

I think I've done so, even if most of the bloggers in KC have the same color skin and economic background as I do. So what? Some of our opinions are as different as night and day. I like it.

Keep on bloggin' KC!

Maybe Blogger Who Shall Not Be Named just needs a snack cake and to journey out of his mom's basement for a hug. Mama hugs and snack cakes sometimes help my cranky 3 year old, maybe it'll work for a surly Mexican?

Hell, I'll even give him a hug if he promises not to grope me.

Scariest Piece of Junk Mail I've Ever Received

Beware the rapture, one and all! At first I thought it was an ad for the latest History Channel "Doomsday Prophesy" documentary. I hope these people lose my address. I wouldn't want them showing up at my doorstep wanting to know why I wasn't at the conference.

First They Came for the Artists, and I didn't speak up

First they came for the Artists, and I didn't speak up because I didn't know how to paint.

Then they came for the Musicians, and I didn't speak up because I didn't know how to play the flute.

Then they came for the Poets, and I didn't speak up because I didn't know how to write in rhyme.

Then they came for the Philosophers, and I didn't speak up because I didn't know how to ponder the mysteries.

Then they came for the Geographers, and I didn't speak up because I didn't know there was anything left to discover.

Then they came for the Historians, and I didn't speak up because I didn't know why the past was so important.

Finally they came for me, the Future of America, and there was no one left to lead because they didn't look for me in the beginning.

As someone with a degree in American History, I've never liked the No Child Left Behind Act. Sure it sounds great in theory, more agressively teaching children to read, write and do math and science, but in reality, it is damning the future of our nation.

Why am in such a knot over this when my daughter is only 3? I saw this photo over at emawkc's blog last week and it reminded me of an article I read in a museum magazine a few months ago about how history, civics and geography are slowly being decreased in the classroom so that students (the future political leaders of tomorrow) will test well enough to continue the school's funding under the No Child Left Behind Act.

Yes, I believe every child in America should know how to read, write, understand scientific principles and do math. Vital knowledge. Is it how we create future leaders? Not entirely.

I read this article that stated less than half the teenagers polled in a recent phone survey knew when the Civil War was fought. Even more frightening, about 25% could not identify Adolph Hitler.

Remember that worn out old phrase "Those who do not understand history are doomed to repeat it?"

No Child Left Behind is undermining programs such as History, Civics, Geography and the other social sciences in schools all across the country. Not only that, programs such as music, art, speech, debate, home economics, industrial arts, and physical education--as well as recess (no wonder our kids are becoming fatter) are being eliminated.

Why is Shop and Home Ec so important? There is a frightening shortage of a technically trained workforce right now. Jobs such as skilled mechanics, plumbers, electricians, HVAC technicians are being left unfilled and not because there is a lack of jobs.

Think the debate team and the marching band aren't really that important? It's proven that music enhances mathmatical learning. It's a clear fact that if our children are taught critical thinking and how to intelligently debate an argument, they are on a better path to make nationally impacting decisions.

If they aren't inspired by the arts, how are they taught to dream of a better tomorrow? Of creating something out of their imagination?

Something that is even more disturbing is this article I read about how teachers, worried about their jobs and their raises are encouraging/helping their students to cheat just so they acheive the proper test scores.

Even the class field trip is in jeapordy. Due to high fuel rates and less time to spend educating our children about history, school trips to museums are significantly down.

So what? If children aren't exposed to going to museums or arts events like plays and concerts at an early age, it's highly unlikely that they will do so as they grow older.

Many museums are struggling financially due to the shortage of these visits. Ask any museum where they make their money and top of the list is class trips. Many are starting outreach programs just to be able to teach children history (and help their revenue).

We've come a long way since LBJ's Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, but No Child Left Behind is leaving America's future in a very frightening place.

There...I've hopped down from my soapbox.

Stick with what you know . . .

I made a major mistake last week. I've been wearing Revlon Colorstay makeup for over 5 years. It's served me well. Never had any problems.

In a hurried rush to the spackle dispensing station last week, I discovered they were out of it. Irritated by this, I decided to try something new. I had great success with my discovery of Almay's liquid eyeliner last fall when Beauty Brands was out of my regular stuff, so maybe I can deal with this.

I roam down the rest of the Revlon display and pick out my color in their Clear Complexion line. Not that I have had a lot of problems with breakouts, but I thought with the warmer weather coming, it might be good to try a lighter foundation.

One week later, this shit is making my face break out like it hasn't done since I was a teenager. What the hell? Isn't this supposed to stop break outs? Ironic that it CAUSED them, funny? NO! I hate this.

At 31, I am too old for a Teenage Renaissance.

I can't help but want to kick myself for not just going to another store and finding my standby. I was in a hurry and didn't think it would be such a big deal. Those dangerous little words came creeping into my head, "When in doubt, stick with what you know..."

I consider myself a semi-adventurous person when it comes to trying new things. I'll be first in line to try a new restaurant or a new store. I never limit myself to "genres". I'll read just about any kind of book. I'm eclectic in my musical tastes, I'll even buy a pair of shoes that I might never wear just because they're "different". I seriously will try anything (almost anything) once.

This being said, there are certain things that I am utterly dedicated to as a consumer. Most of the following list is based on bad past experiences. Obviously, my liquid foundation needs to be on this list.

Moxie's list of Must Haves, NO Substitutes Accepted:
Gate's Original Barbecue sauce in the bottle
Pantene Pro-V Sheer Volume Shampoo/Conditioner and Hair Spray
Quik Trip Gasoline
Hellman's Real Mayonnaise
My great grandmother's German Potato Salad recipe
Huggies Diapers (Thank God Darling's way out of this stage)
Home Depot Lawn and Leaf Paper Bags
Cottonelle Toilet Paper
Political opinions based on The Daily Show (hee hee, I'm mostly kidding)
Chocolate from German speaking countries
Gary Lezak's weather forecast
Waldo Pizza
Prospero's Bookstore for my used pulp fiction jags
Barnes and Noble on the Plaza for other bookly needs
Governor Stumpy's Ragin' Cajun Chicken Salad
Linen N Things for sheets/towels
Leggs Sheer Energy pantyhose
Bath and Bodyworks Juniper Breeze lotion (damn them for discontinuing it. God Bless Ebay!)
Elmer's Glue
On the Border medium Salsa/Chips

I'm sure this is an incomplete list, but it'll work for now...

Maybe I'm just getting set in my ways, maybe I am more susceptible to brand loyalty as a marketer. But there are just some things I shouldn't stray from. Alas, I've learned my lesson the hard way.

REALLY Late Friday Fill-In

friday fill-in
# 69

1. When I fell in love....It was instant and forever
2. My toes curl with glee when the flowers bloom and it heats up outside!
3. Oh no! The internet connection is down, let me crawl under the desk in my short skirt and pray no one walks into my office.
4. Mad Men (the greatest show nobody watches) is the most intense, incredible show and is the craziest tv show ever.
5. Cheese crackers make a great meal!
6. I'm jealous of people who can grow a garden.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to doing whatever I want, tomorrow my plans include doing my part for American Capitalism (work), and Sunday I plan on celebrating brunch with my in-laws on their 33rd wedding anniversary.

MMMM....Feasty!

Appetizer
Name something you would categorize as weird.
Men who wear white pants in a non-uniform application. I get creeped out by men in white pants. I don't know why. It's just weird.

Soup
What color was the last piece of food you ate?
Cereal colored

Salad
On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being highest, how much do you enjoy being alone?
It depends. I love to have "me-time" and I'm also someone who loves being around people. I grew up in a large family and alone time was a precious commodity.

Main Course
Fill in the blank: I will _________ vote for ___________ in _______.
I will never vote for Ron Paul in the Presidential Election.

Dessert
Describe your sleeping habits.
Chaotic. Random. Not enough. (I'm on a pretty serious insomnia jag right now.)

One More Poetic Memory of My Father...

So, one more and I'll probably stop. My dad had a strong desire that his children (all 5 of us...we're Catholic, ok?) would be cultured. He had a near photographic memory (well, it was selective to the subject). Part of being cultured was to call him "Sir", to be exposed to poetry and to embrace reading like it was a drug. (All great demands, in retrospect)

I remember in college I had my heart utterly and completely shattered by Handsome. REALLY BAD FIGHT. Beyond repair (so I thought) and I travelled home that weekend to be consoled by my familial unit. Everyone thought it was over.

All I wanted was a hug from my dad.

After getting the "Strong Woman Pep Talk" from my mom all about how I was better without him and he was never good enough for me, blah, blah, blah...my dad came home.

He knew the situation, just took me in his arms as I broke into tears and asked, "Do you remember what I told you? 'Tis true, tis true'"

He was referring to a poem by A.E. Houseman, "When I was One and Twenty" (I was really Two and Twenty). It was the perfect consolation that I could have asked for. Maybe it makes no sense, but to me, it did.

My dad hides behind his own wisdom, even today, but he, more than anyone else in my life (with maybe the exception of Handsome who is my Twin Soul, truly), has known exactly what to say when.

When I Was One-and-Twenty

WHEN I was one-and-twenty
I heard a wise man say,
"Give crowns and pounds and guineas
But not your heart away;
Give pearls away and rubies
But keep your fancy free."
But I was one-and-twenty,
No use to talk to me.

When I was one-and-twenty
I heard him say again,
"The heart out of the bosom
Was never given in vain;

'Tis paid with sighs a-plenty
And sold for endless rue."
And I am two-and-twenty,
And oh, 'tis true, 'tis true.

Well, since April's almost over . . .

I'm a huge fan of poetry. April is Poetry Month, but I haven't been completely inspired to share any of my favs, but last night, Darling and I were hanging out in the backyard. She was trying to conquer her fear of climbing down from the "Tower" of her wooden swingset and I was trying to conquer lawn care.

It was such a gorgeous evening and I was totally grooving out to the "fun" of raking and pruning and snapping twigs....I looked over at Darling who was singing something she learned on the Backyardigans and I was just overwhelmed by how much I loved her. If you're a parent, you'll understand those unexpected, out of nowhere rushes of love where you think, "Damn! That's MY kid and she/he is the most beautiful thing in the world".

I don't have any parental poems, but one of my favorites came rushing to my head last night.

When I was a little girl, a little older than Darling (ages 3-6ish), my dad and I would take "sunset walks". We'd take our fishing poles (I grew up at a lake) and we'd just go travelling down the seawall, not really fishing, just holding each other's hand, enjoying the sunset and water and the warm summer evening.

These walks were some of my happiest childhood memories. They were special Daddy/Daughter times and it was an exclusive party. No matter how much my little brother whined to go, he wasn't allowed. Just me. And my dad. I felt so special.

We'd just walk, talk, discuss politics (he found it particularly amusing to ask my opinions on Carter and Latin American Cold War Policy and Reganomics and the bizzare answers my little mind tried to come up with.) He even had a special poem that he would recite for me at the end of our walks. It was so perfect and to this day, it reminds me of him and perfect happiness.

Years later, in high school English class I came home one day and asked him, "Dad, did you used to recite "It Is a Beauteous Evening" to me when I was a little girl on our walks?" My dad just smiled and said, "Yes, I hope you can share that feeling with your kid someday."

Last night was the first night. Darling looked at me like I was crazy (a regular occurance, I assure you) and just said, "Pretty story, Mama" She's either exceedingly polite (we try) or a poetry lover in the making.

Anyway, my special poem, thanks, Daddy...Sorry we don't have the best of relationships now, but because of our walks, I know you love me no matter what.

It Is a Beauteous Evening
It is a beauteous evening, calm and free,
The holy time is quiet as a Nun
Breathless with adoration; the broad sun
Is sinking down in its tranquility;
The gentleness of heaven broods o'er the Sea;
Listen! the mighty Being is awake,
And doth with his eternal motion make
A sound like thunder - everlastingly.
Dear child! dear Girl! that walkest with me here,
If thou appear untouched by solemn thought,
Thy nature is not therefore less divine:
Thou liest in Abraham's bosom all the year;
And worshipp'st at the Temple's inner shrine,
God being with thee when we know it not.
~William Wordsworth




There, I'm done being sappy. Sorry for the cheesy post.

Givin' Mother Earth Some Lovin'

Happy Earth Day! The newest, flashiest fake holiday to hit the advertising world. It's even bigger than Memorial Day White Sales! Look out Black Friday, April 22 is starting to encroach on your turf.

Don't get me wrong. I think it's a great reminder to recycle and be careful of your carbon footprint, but this year it seems Earth Day is getting a bit more of a splash.

Maybe it's because it's an election year. Maybe I'm just a jaded marketer that's jumped on the bandwagon. (I'm in advertising and I have no shame)

Either way... go hug a tree today, crunch some granola, save a dolphin...whatever makes you feel like you're saving the planet.

Wearing a super cape and under-roos may be a little weird. Don't do that. Only professional super heroes can do that without looking odd.

Geriatrics Gone Wild

Have you checked out www.redstateupdate.com? If the answer is no, slap yourself, go watch a few clips and pee your pants with laughter. I only agree with about 15.75% of what these rednecks think, but it's some seriously funny shit. Or, you think it sounds like the voice of reason. I guess it depends on whether you spend your weekends sittin' on the back of a pick em up truck, sportin' a John Deere cap, drinkin' Miller Lite.

The frightening thing is...I think more of America would agree with these boys than would disagree...and aye, there is the rub, my friends...

Anyway around it, funniest commentary on politics in America this side of "The Daily Show" these days.

Maybe it's just because Jackie bears a striking resemblance (Physically and Politically) to my dearest rednecked father-in-law...I don't know....

Anywho...watch this video to discover the "FURY of McCain"....if there really is such a thing...

Friday Fill-ins Fun

1. The last time I lost my temper I _____!
jammed my littlest toe on the corner of the couch. That's what I get for trying
to stomp away in angry defiance.

2. _____ is what I'm fed up with!
Other people's bs

3. The next book I'd like to read is _____.
Actually 2 ~ "Duma Key" by Stephen King and "Blaze" by his alter ego, Richard
Bachman

4. _____ is what I'm looking forward to.
Summertime

5. If you can't get rid of the skeleton[s] in your closet, _____!
Invite them into the living room and let them hang out on the couch
6. The best thing I got in the mail recently was _____.
My best friend sent me a package filled with some new books and stuff her mom
bought me. She sent it to me at work which was a lovely cheer up in the middle of
the day.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to _____, tomorrow my plans
include _____ and Sunday, I want to _____!

Tonight I'm looking forward to acting like a semi-grown up (sans-Darling) by
having dinner with a very dear friend from college. Tomorrow my plans just might
include taking Darling to the Kite Festival that's out at Longview. On Sunday
I'm going to Mahaffie and checking out the war with a fellow history nerd friend.

Friday Feastin'!

Appetizer

Name a color you find soothing.
I love light blue. As in Beatrix Potter blue. It reminds me of reading the Peter Rabbit books when I was little. 2 of the walls in Darling's room are this color


Soup

Using 20 or less words, describe your first driving experience.
Scary as hell for everyone involved.

Salad

What material is your favorite item of clothing made out of?
I have a hoodie sweatshirt from back in my softball days at college. It's the most comfortable thing ever.

Main Course

Who is a great singer or musician who, if they were to come to your town for a concert, you would spend the night outside waiting for tickets to see?
Jarvis Cocker from Pulp. The band broke up, but I still have hopes of a reunion. They've never toured the US, so it isn't likely they would, even my dreams.

Dessert

What is the most frequent letter of the alphabet in your whole name (first, middle, maiden, last, etc.)?
N, closely followed by A

More Assassins Background

I found this awesome article that talks about Sondheim and the Assassins behind "Assassins"...check it out: http://www.sjsondheim.com/Assassins.html

Moxie Loves a Conspiracy...

Handsome hates "theoreticals". Don't ever ask him a "What if..." question. He will refuse to answer on general principle. He deals in reality and fantasy and "What if's" are strictly kept on stage.

Me, I love the "What If's". Can't get enough of them. I don't care how crack pipe crazy the theory is, I'll hear you out. I may laugh my ass off at your insanity, but twisted logic and hidden agendas hovering just below the surface fascinate me.

When it comes to "Hidden Histories" I'm in nerdy orgasmic bliss. Hardly anything fascinates me more than the Mafia or La Costra Nostra, if you will. I'm not Sicilian or Italian even, but I'm fascinated by them.

My best friend is related to some VERY mobbed up families in KC History. Oh the stories she/her mom/grandma have told! I even wanted to do my thesis on the history of the mob in KC, and I was so adamant about it that my advisor not only refused me ("I won't have one of my students whacked for their thesis" was his direct quote) but had an "Italian American" fellow student talk me out of it.

Anywho, while I'd like to believe that Sondheim's "Assasins" is the true explaination of how JFK was killed, I'm convinced it was the Mob and the CIA that whacked him.

I read this fascinating book, "Mob Lawyer: The Autobiography of Frank Ragano" and not only does it cover Jimmy Hoffa, but it explains how Santos Trafficante was approached by the CIA to off John Kennedy.

My BFF called me last night and told me about this movie about Joseph Bananno, who allegedly was the mob boss, along with Jimmy Hoffa and Santos Trafficante that was "hired" to do the hit.

According to them and other reports, the hit happened from a storm drain...not the Texas Book Depository or the infamous "Grassy Knoll".

I'd never heard the storm drain theory...intriguing..no?

Crack pipe? Most likely...but if you like that sort of thing...that's the sort of thing you'd like...

Random History Post 1, just for you, Dave...Soon...KC exclusive stuff...

PS. If you are at all historically or musical theatre inclined and don't know about "Assassins", spank yourself and go to Barnes and Noble (or your favorite independent local music store) and purchase it. You'll never pray so hard for the insanity of America when it comes to the current prez.

Just watch this video....watch it to the end, pardon the shitty acting. John Wilkes Booth convinces Lee Harvey Oswald (along with the other past/future Assassins/wannabes to kill JFK (hint: Handsome's played Hinkley in a different performance)If you don't get goose bumps, you have no soul...that's all. This is one of the most powerful things I've ever seen on stage.

As an historian, who knows the story and the backstory, behind these assassins, Sondheim was incredibly true, right down to the "owls, stamped on the rubber handles". Get the libretto...you won't regret reading/listening to it.

PSS..."Assassins" has been truly doomed to the Fates...see here.

Since It Seems Like the Thing to Do Today...Wedding pics!

So, both Faith and Michelle (two of my favorite bloggers)posted wedding pics, I decided to share my favorite one. I'm oh-so girly like that. (Whatev!)

Plus, well, Handsome's pretty hot in a kilt (Yes he wore it "authentically" and my best friend SWORE that he accidently flashed the entire congregation because he refused to sit like a lady and at Redemptorist the couple sits next to the altar with the priest facing the congregation)....

My 69th Post...EXCELLENT!!!

Remember Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure and how Bill/Ted from the future asked Bill/Ted from the past "What number am I thinking of?" "69, Dude!" I loved that movie when I was a kid. It's probably my main inspiration for getting a history degree. Maybe not, I don't know.

Any ol' who...My 69th post seems as good a time as any to start reflecting on why the hell I'm bothering with a blog. Maybe it's because I'm turning the Big Three One next Monday and I always get reflective around this time of year. (I'm a historian after all, that's what we do...)

I started this blog as a way to vent my inner voices. Whatever came to mind. No limits, no self-censoring, just a way to purge my thoughts.

I haven't told anybody, not even Handsome that I'm doing this. I had written a MySpace blog (shut up, Lame-O, I know) for about a year and enjoyed it, but found myself censoring myself all the time (Do I really want my cousin/Handsome's theatre friends/my co-workers to know my real opinion on stuff? Sometimes the answer was no since it could affect those around me.) So after 68 rambling posts, I'm trying to figure out what the hell I'm doing...

Do I have a theme I want to stick to?
Current events, politics, parenting, tarot, KC History? Most of my favorite blogs seem to have one...
Do I even need a theme?
Am I still self-censoring?
Is this a cheap way to get therapy?
Am I just searching for that creative writing itch I can't seem to scratch in my Marketing job? I know I missed writing for writing's sake...But is this REALLY writing?
Am I just finding a cheap facsimile for the editorial writing I missed from being a newspaper editor in high school/college?
Am I just looking for complete strangers to read my crap and comment, thereby stroking my ego like a sassy Siamese?
Am I looking to them for reassurance that what I care about matters to the bigger scheme of the world?
Maybe I'm just trying to be "trendy" since everyone seems to be blogging these days.
Am I chronicling stories that someday I'll want to remember to tell Darling?
Maybe this is all a form of thought bulimia...a way to purge...
Maybe I'm just trying to remind myself that I can write shit that matters beyond the ads that earn my daily bread...

Maybe it's all this shit rolled up in a tortilla, maybe it's none of it. Hell if I know...I guess maybe tagging my posts might be a good way to give me a sense of order...

By even posting this post, am I second-guessing myself in something that I wanted to do to give me confidence in myself/writing/life in general?

Shit. I ask myself WAY to many questions. I over analyze EVERYTHING...sigh.


PS. Dude, what else did you think the title of this post was referring to? Sicko!

Go Fly a Kite!

Today is the kind of day that I dreamt about in the depths of this particularly nasty winter that better be over finally. Beautiful, sunny, windy. Like Mother Nature is finally waking up from hibernation and is starting to get her act together.

On days like this, there's only two things I want to do. Fly a kite and go sailing.

I've got some mad kite flyin' skillz that I aquired during "Field Days" in grade school. Every May, towards the end of school, our principal turned our huge playground into a various array of fun activities like softball, obstacle courses, picnic and of course kite flying. Needless to say, some years were better than others for such an activity, but my competitive nature bloomed early and I'm now a master.

Darling's finally old enough to appreciate flying a kite, so, tonight, we're gonna take the brand new Dora kite out for a spin in the field next to our house. Here's hoping for a great time. This is also the field that the neighbors let their dogs poop in without clean up (don't get me started) so we might even have bonus adventures.

As for sailing...I grew up at a local residential lake. All I wanted when I was growing up was a butterfly sailboat. I loved watching the Sunday morning races in the summer and wanted in on the action.

I begged for years and years. All the cool kids had their own boats. My parents always said no. We already had a ski boat, a beat up old fishing boat and a very leaky canoe, no matter how many times my dad (who was in the Navy, ok, he was a Corpsman) caulked it.

So, what do my parents do, months after I move out? Buy my sister a used sailboat. I was livid. But whatever, I still go out there and take it out with my sister. I'm not sure Darling's quite old enough yet for that boat but she is pretty awesome with a fishing pole and loves the "fast boat". With all the boom swings that can occur with the sail, we might wait awhile. Sometimes you have to have pretty quick reflexes or you get smacked in the face and that sucks.

Today is only one of the first (hopefully) beautiful days of Spring. Maybe I'll get my chance to sail away soon.

Darling Damage

Tonight, after a particularly difficult day at work, I'm lying down, reading a book, fantasizing the day away and Handsome and Darling arrive home.

Handsome comes into the room and grimly says: "Come look at your daughter's face."
I call for Darling, she walks in the room and I behold a bruise under her eye about 3" in diameter and one slightly smaller above her eye.

"Darling, what happened?"
"I was pushed down! On the ground!"
"By who?"
"Agressive Son of Our Baby Sitter"
"WHAT?!?"

Handsome pipes in with "Baby Sitter says she was hit in the face with a frisbee" It's pretty clear by Darling's shiner that a Frisbee wasn't the perpetrator...

I ask Darling, "Is that true? Was it a Frisbee or did Agressive Son push you down?"
"Agressive Son pushed me down when we played Frisbee"


This seems like a simple case. Question Babysitter why she wasn't watching the kids more closely to know what happened.

It's not. She served her husband with divorce papers today. They were arguing when Handsome came to pick up Darling.

I can understand why Agressive Son might be a bit stressed/over stimulated today seeing his parents split.

Any excuse for pushing down Darling? Hell, The Fuck NO! But sort of understandable considering his parents' sitch. We've never had a problem in the last 3.5 months that Darling's gone to this particular babysitter.

What to do? Let it pass as a bad, bad day or press the issue? Boys are more agressive than girls, I can't accept anyone laying a hand on Darling in any shape, form or fashion, but considering the circumstances, do I give Babysitter we've liked until now another chance, especially considering this is about to be her only form of financial sustanance?

I will address it tomorrow night when we can both be there. Bruises on my Darling (and whatever emotional trauma notwithstanding)is unacceptable. How do I approach this?

HELP?!?

I don't know what I'm doing

So, I've been playing around in Blogger tonight. I tried to add a blog list (that needs to be added to) of blogs I enjoy daily. If you want on this illustrious list, please let me know.

Fun With Numerology . . .

Ok, so, while I was frantically searching the "Gift box/Gift bag" Closet in order to conceal a 4 yr old's birthday present, I found what I was looking for. For almost 3 years (since I lost it when we bought our house in Jan. of 2003), I couldn't find my "Red Notebook".

My red notebook is a collection of crazy tarot/numerology/astrology (western and Chinese)/gemstone/minerals/assorted other New Age Stuff that I've collected over the years. In essence, my weird hobby/path to enlightenment outside the box.

Tonight I flipped thru it just to make friends with it again. I came across a VERY cool numerology code.

Before I ever do a Tarot spread/try anything out on my friends, I use Handsome and I as guinea pigs. I took the last 6 or 7 years of our life and figured out our cards and I will tell you, we are 6 or 7 for 6 or 7 on whether the card could fit. Handsome and my birthdays break down to the same thing. Mine is April 21 (4+2+1)and Handsome's is March 4 (3+4). Both equal 7 and so, whatever year is added, we fit. Being twin souls, this makes sense. ANYWHO......

If you're one for predictions, give this a whirl to find out what this year has in store for you:

Your birthday (month and day) + 2008
Here's an example based on me:
Everything inside the parentheses breaks down to single digit numbers always:
My birthday is April 21st:
4+(2+1)+(2+0+0+8)
4+3+10
4+3+(1+0)=8

All birthdays should break down to a number between 1 and 22. Each number coresponds to a number/card in the Major Arcana of the Tarot deck. Figure out your number and then see my interpretation of each card below.

1= The Magician: The Magician has the four gifts of the suits in front of him: wands, cups, swords and coins (direction, emotion, strength, prosperity). He holds his magic wand above him in one hand. The other is pointed to the earth, signifying that the things you dream/want will be made real if you use your gifts this year. A VERY AWESOME CARD!

2= The High Priestess: Signifies a woman who makes good decisions. Means that you will make good, balanced (head and heart) decisons this year.Embrace her.

3= The Empress: If you're thinking about having a child, this is the Fertility card. You will either get pregnant, or give birth to a creative energy in your life. What do you need to have sprout and grow this year? The Empress will make this happen (just use protection vigilantly if you don't want to be pregnant.)

4=The Emperor: Ahhh....My soul card....I love him....He is the Ruler. The things you haven't been able to control/get ahold of, you will this year. Draw on the strength of your own power and rule judiciously.

5=The Hierophant: The "Pope/Scholar" card in the deck. He is the wise sage that will lead you to what you need to know. If you draw this card, he tells you to make decisions based on what your spirituality tells you to do. This could be a year where you draw closer to God the Father, if you're willing.

6=The Lovers: If you draw this card, it's Passion, but only skin deep. The Lovers are fickle. It's heat, but no substance. Beware of your passionate feelings and cultivate deeper than just the topsoil. Fires untended burn out.

7=The Chariot: Signifies movement always. You will either physically move (home/work/school/job/ideology). Movement means growth. A very good card to draw.

8=Strength: One of my favs...A woman who caresses the head of a lion in her lap. Signifies the taming of your own wildness into something powerful. A very good growth card for what was started last year. (My 2008)

9=The Hermit: Ahhhh....Handsome's soul card....The Hermit represents going within yourself in order to find the inner path. It's ok to retreat from others/things that don't help you grow. Self reflection and decision making dominate this time. Use it wisely.

10=Wheel of Fortune: This is the rest of your life. The Wheel is spinning. You will be bound to the Fortunes that spin this year. Look to them and figure out where the wheel stops, if you can control it. A very lucky or challenging year, depending, but it's one that your soul needs. Pay attention.

11=Justice: Justice is depicted in the traditional way as a blindfolded woman representing the emotional with a scale balancing in her hands. Things that have felt out of kilter or unbalanced straighten themselves this year.

12=The Hanged Man: This is a man, hanging upside down, balancing in a yoga meditation position with a saint's halo surrounding his head. You will find the inner balance this year. You figure out the unsolvable issues this year. Listen to your inner voice, or as The Great Bambino says in "The Sandlot": "Remember kid, there's heroes and there's legends. Heroes get remembered but legends never die, follow your heart kid, and you'll never go wrong." Use this energy to find out what you really want/need and then pursue it.

13= Death: DO NOT FREAK OUT! THIS IS A GREAT CARD!!!! Going back, for both Handsome and I, 2004 signified Death for us. It was the year Darling Daughter was born. Our old life passed away and we became parents. Something new was born. A new direction, a new focus. Death in the Tarot never means somebody is going to die (Tarot cards cannot predict such a thing, if anyone tells you differently, they're either lying or a quack, or both.) DEATH IS A WONDERFUL CARD TO RECEIVE!!!! LUCKY YOU! Death represents not the negative aspect of dying, but is symbolic of rebirth. Something in your life dies away so that something else might be born. Your life is about to change. Something/someone is about to be born. A very lucky omen.

14= Temperance: Another of my favs. Temperance is an angel pouring a liquid from one cup to the other. She signifies temperance, not in the "don't do drugs, don't smoke, don't go to extremes" sense, but in the metalurgical sense. Metal, when red hot is liquid, it becomes something solid. Take the liquid things (dreams, ideals, hopes) and make them something solid/real. You have the power to do so this year.

15=The Devil: A challenging year. Don't let your inner demons/bad forces around you take over and control your decisions. Be VERY careful. (Our 2006).

16=The Tower: Think of the Tower of Babel. Everything that you built up on precarious ground without good mortar will come crashing down. This is a "testing" year. The old is destroyed and comes tumbling down so that something new may be built on the stronger foundation. (Our 2007....) It will hurt, but it's for the best.

17= The Star: My absolutely favorite Major Arcana. She signifies the "light at the end of the tunnel". She is hope and everything you've struggled with thus far will finally show itself to be worth it. A very good "realization" year.

18=The Moon: Hidden danger. The moon is romantic...it draws you in, but there are things in the dark you aren't paying attention to. Don't be wooed by things that are attractive in the darkness. They won't come to light. Beware things that are uncertain.

19=The Sun: Fun, childlike happiness follow you this year. Remember your inner child/things that make you happy. Embrace them, it's a good year. Just beware of too much innocent trusting.

20=Judgment: Today is the beginning of the rest of your life. Heard this phrase before? Hard decisions are ahead. Make good choices, and you'll be fine. The right of the universe is defined this year.

21=The World: Success in undertakings. Accomplishment. Keep on trucking. This is the year of fullfillment of what you want. You're doing ok. Trust instincts.

22=The Fool: The Fool is tricky. It depends on the person. He can represent Innocence, Beginnings, Spontenaity, but he can also represent tunnel vision and carelessness. Decide for yourself what you want this year, just think thru whatever decisions you decide.

If any of this is confusing, send me your birthday and I'll tell you what your cards are.

When the Marketing Gods Stumble...

....Shit like this happens.

Who decided that stereotypical American Idol candidates (toys) were a good idea for Happy Meals (the most deviously clever marketing ploy ever invented)?

I admit that I watch American Idol. I don't care enough to vote, but I DVR it and watch it whenever. Handsome is a singer and I try to be hip with the kids (I'm turning 31 in a week or so and feel out of it). I embrace (and mock) pop culture on a regular basis, but this my friends is "one toke over (that proverbial) line".

Darling's 3 yrs old. We have a weekly "Since You've Been REALLY, REALLY Good" trip to the Arches. (Don't start on me about health, she gets the Chicken Nuggets, milk and apples). Her favorite part is the toy.

Handsome and I prefer Burger King when we're planning on intaking 2 days worth of calories in one sitting. Darling would have none of it. We couldn't really figure out why until Handsome suggested it was the fact the Burger King toys generally tended to be crappy. I think he's right.

We've had a lovely string of Disney Princess accessories (sort of jealous of the scepter and tiara)in the last few trips. Plus, I think Darling likes the indoor play area, so what can I say, my 3 year old has brand loyalty.

Look at these. They're ugly.

Remember these guys? I miss them. They were so cool when I was a kid. Maybe I'm just strongly influenced by puppets....



Nifty trivia fact...Kansas City's own Bernstein & Rein Advertising Agency was the creator of the Happy Meal. FYI...

A Girl Like That . . .

Handsome's brother (the only one of the three I truly like) who I'll call Savior, because he kind of looks like Jesus, broke up with his girlfriend about a month ago.

No one could ever really figure out why they were dating, since they openly admitted that they didn't want to get married. They want polar opposite things right down to having/not having kids/pets. Most of us just thought it was a "best friends with benefits" situation at first, but they lasted four and a half years.

So, out of the blue, Savior finally found his balls, and broke it off for good. She's devasted and depressed and I've been uncomfortably put into the older sister confidante spot. But whatever, this isn't her story.

Savior knows I've been comforting her and so we haven't really talked at all about the situation, I've been letting Handsome take care of that. (They work together and go out to lunch all the time).

Last night, Savior and I finally talked. Aparently he jumped into another relationship with a new girl (and a friend of ex-girl) slightly before he broke up with ex-girl. Disappointing, but most guys use the diving rod in their pants to guide them out of emotionally troubling situations.

What I can't figure out is what makes girls like New Girl tick. How can you go into a new relationship with someone that isn't out of the old one? What makes you think it's going to work out, because 8 times out of 10 it doesn't.

I haven't met her yet, but I really do have an open mind. She might be a perfectly lovely girl. I'm choosing to ignore some of the gossip from Handsome and Savior's sister, but it doesn't look good for her.

Why do women jump into relationships that fast, ignoring common sense? Does she really think that he can walk away from 4 years without any baggage?

I played tug of war with another girl over a stupid boyfriend of mine once when I was in college. I "won" but that's a game you never truly "win".

Womanhood defies me today. I'm at a loss.

Friday Fill-In Fun!

Friday Fill-In Time!

1. I love springtime in _____!
Rural Missouri. Handsome grew up in a VERY small town in between St. Louis and Columbia. He dad owns 80 acres and it's just gorgeous. Woods, stream, hills. It's even better in the Fall, but in spring it's just incredible.

2. _____ are foods I love to eat for breakfast.
Apples, Honeynut Cherrios, and cold pizza

3. It seems I'm always searching for _____
Matching ponytail holders for Darling's hair.

4. _____ is a great way to end the day.
Completely exhausted from having lived life to it's fullest

5. I think I _____!
Need to stop worryiing so much

6. _____ is what I've been craving lately.
Sauerbraten mit rotkohl. I miss German food ever since Berliner Bear shut down. sigh...

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to _____, tomorrow my plans include _____ and Sunday, I want to _____!
Tonight: Hanging out with an old college friend that I dearly adore and haven't spent any time with in the last couple of months.
Tomorrow: Working at the Museum and since Darling's going with her aunt for the weekend, maybe a hot date with Handsome.
Sunday: Museum, laundry, house cleaning, flop and drop relaxation.

Today feels like the day after Christmas

The Home Opener at the K was AWESOME yesterday. It was pretty cold and wet, but we had pretty decent seats and after a couple of beers you don't even notice the cold.

I have to say that I love the new scoreboard. I'm nostalgia-prone, I'll admit, but the HD stunning glory of the new board is almost beyond words. I do think they need to learn how to play with their new toy though. There were some glitches and I would have liked to have seen more live action shots instead of replay shots, but it was pretty cool anyway.

It was also very wonderful to see the Royals playing so well. I was a little nervous for Brian Bannister, but he did a great job.

Spoiled brat that I am, I get to go to another game tonight. And this one is in a suite! Sweet, huh!

Psst...Don't Forget

With all of the KU euphoria and Home Opener excitement, don't forget to do your part for American Democracy and vote today!

Bye Bye Crown Scoreboard

I have mixed feelings. I spent so many years of my life riveted, biting my nails, hoping, praying to that beautiful, yet, ultimately vengeful god in Center field. Crown Scoreboard, I'm talking to YOU...I promise, I'll stop Royals blogging soon, but as I drove by the semi-dismantled Crown Scoreboard in Feb, a little piece of my childhood died....

I'll miss you, but I'm curious about your replacement...until tomorrow...a kiss for your memory...Ya saw me thru my first game before I was even born (my daughter's first game before she was even born, too)...all the games of my childhood as I sat mesmerized by my heroes George Brett, Brett Saberhagen, Bo Jackson, Danny Tartabull, Dick Howser, Willie Wilson, Hal McRae...as I was enamored (briefly) by Johnny Damon, Jermaine Dye, Joe Randa, Mike Sweeney...

Scoreboard, it won't be the same without you, no matter how hard they try to "improve" on your greatness...

Don't Rain on My Parade (or Opening Ballgame)

So, if I could, I would put a curse on every forecaster and KU basketball fan right now. Not only am I going to have to hear about tonight's basketball game ALL DAY TOMORROW, even while I'm at the Home Opener, but it looks like it's going to rain and be cold.

Both of these things are threatening my usual sunny (ok, partly cloudy/sarcastic) disposition.

But, I shall overcome. You bastards won't bring me down.

KU fans irritate me, but I understand fan loyalty. I get "euphoria". This is your hey day, just don't expect me to roll around in all that hey with you.

I'm particularly irked by the forecasters. Why can't Lezak (or as I call him Mr. Potato Head) get his ass out there and do an anti-rain dance? Katastrophe Katie needs summon her powers and call off the imaginary "Severe Weather" alert demons I bet she's already planning in order to boost KCTV5 ratings. Mike "The Grinning Hair Piece" Thompson needs to quit comparing his package size to Lezak and channel cloud banishing energy. Focus, Mike, FOCUS!!!! (Sorry Busby haters, I like the guy and neither my dad or myself, who enjoy taunting the tv, have ever come up with a decent bash on him).

WHAT DO WE PAY THESE PEOPLE FOR, ANYWAY? I want SHAMEN, not guessers! This is the one day of the year that I expect sunny skies and 70 degree weather. I don't much care the other 364.

Am I asking too much? I don't think so.

GO ROYALS!

Because tomorrow's the Home Opener and I'm a natural pessimist, one of my favorite childhood songs....
Here's hopin' 2008 Royals...hope you'll break this cycle...Also, I love you Amos Otis...even though I played Left Field...


Oh and maybe a little John Fogherty...what the hell!

Neccessity Truly is the Mother of Invention

There are so many things I could be writing about today on my lunch break.

Such as:
1. It sort of feels like Christmas Eve since the Royals Home Opener is tomorrow! I'll be there!
2. How Darling Daughter likes to drop the F bomb in church
3. How awesome Handsome's concert was last night
4. How sick I am of KU Basketball

Nope, instead, this one's dedicated to the greatest invention since movable type: The Breakthrough Backless Bra.

As a well-endowed female that is occassionally required to wear fancy dresses to "black tie" stuff, my jaw dropped, agog with wonder. I can't even tell you how many times I've had to pass up gorgeous dresses because those "self adhesive" bras just won't contain "the girls".

Apparently, a Nashville mother ran into my same dilemma and started cutting up one of her old bras to fashion it into something that wouldn't strap in the back. She even won second place on the tv show "American Inventor". (Personally, I think she should be given the Congressional Medal of Honor, but whatev.)

Maidenform purchase the idea, tweaked it and presto, big boobies are back in backless business!

Here's the complete story if you're interested.

I'm a Sucker for a Cowboy on a Horse

I'm not a Civil War Re-enactor of any shape, form or type. As a scholar with an honest to God History degree, a real HISTORIAN (F-U, I earned it!), I had to promise the head of the History Department before I graduated that I would NEVER EVER, no matter what pressure I was put under, become (gasp) a Re-Enactor.

Yeah, Academics are snobbish, and for the most part, they're right when it comes to true history, but, if you live anywhere near the KS/MO border, do me a favor...learn the history that's around you.

For God's sakes, we were fighting the Civil War 10 years before Ft. Sumtner! Betcha didn't know that!

Do you know what a REAL Jayhawk is? Are you really such a fan? Yeah, you KU people still are, no matter what the orignial connotation means.

Google Col. Charles "Doc" Jennison, Grandaddy to all Jayhawks.

I threatened my KU-besotted ex-boss with telling his daughters what a REAL Jayhawk was, but I didn't...probably because I loved "The Sound of Music" and my mother ruined it with giving me the biography of the REAL Maria Von Trapp...don't read it if you don't want the Christopher Plummer/Julie Andrews dream to shatter.

Anyway....check out these guys. I think I know one or two from my historical ramblings 'round the city....pretty freakin' cool guys that keep the Border History alive...but then again, I'm a sucker for a "real" cowboy.

You know, if you're a Constant Reader, that I'm a part time Weekend Manager of a local museum. It never ceases to amaze me of the look on people's faces as they learn about the history that happened right here in KC (And Lawrence, and Centralia, and Lone Jack and Boonville). Missouri Bushwackers! Jesse James, Cole Younger, Wild Bill Anderson and William Quantrill.

To know you're city's history, here's my (in no particular order to preserve my anonimity)top favorite museums:

1. John Wornall House. If you want a DETAILED account of the Border during the Civil War, this is your stop. It's even supposed to be haunted. (Bonus!)

2. Thomas Hart Benton House. I, as a tepid art lover, have NEVER been on such a cool tour. After his wife died in the 1970's, the state touched nothing and put strings up on the bookshelves and didn't even move the notes under the refrigerator magnets. If you want to see THB's studio, it's been untouched since the day he died. VERY AWESOME!

3. Strawberry Hill Museum. Incredibly immigrant art, devotion to culture. As my great-grandparents settled in KC in the 1880's-1900's, KCK was much different from today. VERY COOL example of community keeping their heritage alive in a non-academic setting.

4. Harry S. Truman House and Museum in Independence. Go to both. You won't regret it. He's the most incredible President. Go. No discussion.

5. Steamboat Arabia. Most expensive museum in town (I think). I hated how the guys who dug up the boat said, "We're not historians, we're just a bunch of blue collar guys trying to go on a treasure hunt". TURNED ME OFF! Yes it's cool that they preserve things right in front of visitors' eyes, but since 90% of their artifacts are on display, they're going to be damaged in time. But...still cool to see the spoils of a wrecked steamboat ala Tom Sawyer.

First Friday April Feast

Appetizer
Invent a new flower; give it a name and describe it.strong>
I really like marigolds, but I hate the way they smell, so maybe a marigold hybrid that has bigger flowers, and smells like tulips. I'll call it the tuligold.

Soup
Name someone whom you think has a wonderful voice.
I'd be a traitor if I didn't say my husband. I could (and have)spend hours listening to him sing (He has a very expensive BFA in Vocal Performance, so I would hope so). I can't sing at all, so if I could sing like anyone famous, it would be Audra MacDonald. She has the most beautiful voice.

Salad
On a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being highest, how clean do you keep your car?
7.25. I have a 3 year old. She's messy. I do a weekly cleanout though.

Main Course
How do you feel about poetry?
I love poetry and have a habit of quickly memorizing things. Handsome Hubby finds it endearing I have so many poems in my heads. As a poet, I'm lousy, but I try occassionally.

Dessert
What was the last person/place/thing you took a picture of?
A picture of 2 co-workers for the company newsletter. Exciting, huh?

Moxie's Got a Serious Celeb Crush

This doesn't happen often. But, since I spend a lot of money on a local sports radio station, my boss and I were invited to the Kansas City Sports Commission Spring Baseball Kick Off Luncheon a month or so ago.

I admit I haven't really followed the Royals as closely as I did before getting married and having Darling Daughter, but I fell in celeb crush lust on the spot. (I'm pretty sure Boss Man has a bit of a man-crush)

Brian Bannister is incredible! Holy David DeJesus, he's dreamy! But merely having rugged good looks and gorgeous blue eyes isn't enough for me. (But yeah, it goes pretty far).

I think I got disillusioned with major league baseball after the whole Tony Pena "We Believe" (until the Royals inevitably F up) campaign flopped. Baseball was a complete let down for me, a life long Royals fan, who had guys like George Brett, Brett Saberhagen, Danny Tartabull and even Johnny Damon (who sold his soul to the devil, I mean the Yankees) to admire "back in the day".

Sweeney had me going for awhile and then he turned into a wimp who couldn't stay off the DL and it was the last straw. I had a lot going on in my late 20's and staying faithful to a bunch of guys who viewed the Royals as either a stepping stone in their career or the end of the line wasn't a priority.

Brian spoke at the baseball lunheon and I was wowed. This guy's got passion for the game...imagine that? He was the best spoken of the players that were there and you could tell that Trey Hillman already had respect for him and Dayton Moore liked him. I like the fact that Bannister goes about his game like he's playing chess. He thinks about the statistics and each person he's going to face. He's honest to God intelligent when he speaks. Gil Meche and Mark Grudzielanek were obviously not meant for speaking engagements.

Ok, so his win loss record last year wasn't stellar, but he's young (26) and he just kicked the Tigers' tails today!

The sky is probably falling and I'm setting myself up for serious heartbreak, but man, the Boys in Blue look good this year! Kansas City is 2-0 for the second time in only 28 years! (Let me revel in it while it lasts, it's so brief, yet so sweet to actually be above .500!)

I can't wait for Opening Day at the K! I've got tickets and am actually going for the first time since 2002! I'm seriously excited this year. More on my opinions of Trey Hillman later...

ps...he's blowing me a kiss in that pic, I know he is! sigh, I'm glad my husband understands my love of baseball!

Looks Like Uniqua's Moving In

In case you aren't hip with the hottest issues in the Pre-School set, Uniqua is one of the characters on The Backyardigans which is one of Darling Daughter's favorite shows. Apparently, she's also my daughter's new imaginary best friend.

This morning as we were leaving the house, Darling yelled, "No Daddy! Wait for Uniqua!" and as I was closing my car door, "Wait for Uniqua, Mama! Hurry up, Uniqua but be careful, your shoe is untied."

Handsome and I both smiled at each other and have played along with the new member of the family. Darling's got a great imagination (Daddy's an actor, Mama creates junk mail) what can I say?

And really, she has great taste in imaginary friends. I found a description of Uniqua on the Nick Jr. website that describes her as:

Uniqua is her name and her species. She’s graceful, agile, and as light on her feet as a ballerina. But when it comes to playing, she’s more “adventure” than “ballet.” Unafraid and daring, Uniqua loves to run, climb, and ride her bike faster than anyone. She also loves to tell silly jokes, make silly noises, and tickle her friends. Yes, Uniqua is mischievous, but she’s also sweet – she knows whether her friends are happy or sad, and she’ll always say something to show that she cares.

Certainly sounds like a pretty cool best friend if you ask me. She sounds a lot like Darling, to tell you the truth.

While this is a cute turn of events, I'm worried there isn't something deeper to it. As a parent you worry about every single thing and I'm hoping it's not that she is lonely and wants a sibling. Isn't 3 and half kind of young for imaginary friends? I don't know...

Handsome and I are in the early discussions of the next kid and both of us are hesitant. Kids are expensive and after a very upsetting year when Darling was 2 and I tried for almost a year to get pregnant and couldn't, we decided it was better for my mental health to just put it off for awhile. It was stressing me out too much.

Maybe it's time to start thinking about it again a little more actively. I just don't know yet.