Catching Flies

All of the "bad" teenagers in the neighborhood hang out at the house next to mine. They rode their bikes/boards in the middle of the road. They tossed empty beer cans, cigarette butts and other assorted nastiness into our yard. They played their music too loud too late and woke up my kids.

Notice my use of the past tense? No, they didn't move and sadly, the kid next door has not gotten more selective about his friends. What changed? They found out that we like Iron Maiden. Todd came home one night and he was blaring Maiden on the SUV's sound system. The "kids" next door were amazed the we old farts had ever heard of them (I wonder if they realize that the band is in their 50's?). Well, once they found out that Todd and I were going to see them... we became the "cool" neighbors.

No more crap in our yard. No more loud music at night. They even look out for my kids and will not let ANYONE pick on them. They are even showing Andy & Ryan how to skateboard (I was not thrilled about this at first, but then Todd brought his board home from his parents... now THAT scared me!). They are nice to us, considerate of our kids and even help us out if/when they can. It is amazing what you can do when you find a little common ground.

Summer Fun

When the summer heat first started to sizzle this year, I picked up a kiddie pool with a cool sunshade/sprinkler. Colin thought it was so cool, he jumped in clothes, shoes and all!





Sunday, we were finally able to get the kids to the beach. we live less than a mile away, yet we couldn't seem to get there. Between the weather and other obligations, it was just impossible! Hopefully we'll be back again soon. Hopefully we will remember to medicate the kids first (really, how did I miss that?). Although, they really were good.. until it was time to go...

You can see Todd and the big guys in the background playing in the surf. Colin and I (and my stitches) hung out in our new cabana and played in the sand. The cabana was definately worth the $13 investment! We need more sand toys. So glad I figured this out before camp!

let the Pimpin' continue

next up in the Hot Seat is Missives From Suburbia

Deb is another dear friend and talented writer disguised as a Mommy. Like Cathy, she has a kid about the same age as Colin. She also has a husband who bears a striking resemblance (on the phone anyway) to Santa! I better not for get her pack of (not so) wild dogs. her blog is halarious! she is in the midst of packing and moving.... and injuring herself.... you can also check out her appearance on the Today Show on her blog.