I'd Like to Thank...

As I sit here watching the People's Choice Awards, I realize that I have never accepted an award in front of an adoring audience. This makes sense considering that I am not a actress or songstress. I am not a philanthropist, a small town hero, nor have I done anything to inspire peace across the globe. However, that doesn't change the fact that I really want (really, really want) to win a golden statue. I want to sit in the crowd and act surprised when they call my name. I want to stand at the podium and thank God, family, and all the people who made my win possible. Of course I would thank my fans , who motivate me to keep doing whatever it is I'm being awarded for. I would end my speech with something witty (because that's what my fans would expect from me), and humbly exit stage left. I would steer clear from the ugly cry, or anything else snot inducing (but depending on the audience, may shed a single tear). I have it all planned out minus one annoying detail; who in heck would give me an award?

Being a mom is stressful. Surely there should be an award to distinguish the good moms from the ones who suck (some moms suck. Sad, but true). There should be an entire award show dedicated to our hard work (like the People's Choice Awards), with categories like, "Best Boo Boo Kisser", and "Best Last Minute School Project Puller-Offer". Nominees would show up in designer gowns, and walk the red carpet as the paparazzi snapped photos. TMZ would shout out inappropriate questions, and for one evening we would pretend like we didn't spend the majority of our time dedicated to another human being.

Until then, I will continue to practice my "surprised" face and acceptance speech (cause all you other moms are going down!).

What category would you win ? (This is your chance to make up your own award. Don't worry, you're the only nominee so your destined to win.)

You Say Tomato..

Is it wrong to purposely not correct your child’s pronunciation when their version of the word is SO cute. Having kids in Kindergarten and First Grade, I absolutely understand the importance of pronunciation. Sounding out words is particularly impossible when you pronounce vanilla, “a-nill-uh”. However, instead of correcting my one year old when he calls water, “wah-doo”, I encourage it by adopting his version of the word. For that matter, the entire family has started calling water, “wah-doo”(my one year old has us well trained). Experts say that when your child mispronounces a word, you should positively reinforce it with the correct word. For example:

Jordan (My 1 year old): I want wahdoo! (picture a mini tyrant ((minus mustache)), demanding water with furrowed eyebrows)

Mom: I will give you some water.

The result of this interaction supposedly teaches your kid to properly pronounce the word. I absolutely will not be doing this. Aside from the fact that mini tyrants in my house are made to say please and thank you before getting anything (regardless of age), “wah-doo” sounds way cuter than water (and slightly more sophisticated than wah wah. My baby’s got class.) Why would I want to “fix” it?

Kids grow up at light speed (effectively making us parents age faster than our peers), I see no harm in holding on to words that remind you that no matter how big they get, they will always be your baby.
What words do your kids mispronounce? Do you plan on correcting them?

Dean’s® Dip Dipstakes™

Pop Warner season is over for the James Boys, however NCAAF and the NFL is still in full swing. When you live in a male dominated home, this means one thing. The TV is monopolized by football Thursday thru Monday. In front of my television are 4 guys. My husband, Head Couch Coach, and his assistants my 3 boys. They cheer, boo, and discuss plays. I do what any American mom would do, take advantage of the Football Snacks. Football is not football, or even remotely enjoyable if I am not being bribed with something salty, crunchy or sweet. Which brings me to the point of this blog (yes, there actually is a point), Dean’s® Dip Dipstakes™! What’s Dean’s® Dipstakes? It’s like fantasy football only tastier! Just like the Jets and the Giants, there are longstanding rivalries amongst dips. Are you a Honey Mustard loyalist, Guacamole diehard (like me) or an Onion Dip fanatic? Vote on your favorite dip while predicting the outcomes of the games each week and you’ll be eligible to win awesome prizes like tailgate party supplies, football memorabilia and sporting gear. There will also be a big grand prize drawing in January for a home entertainment system.

It’s super easy to play and it’s all on Facebook: http://youcastcorp.com/c/77/go/index.php?r=1

Now for the giveaway!

The 20th person to visit Dean’s® Dip Dipstakes™ on Facebook, become a fan, and mention my blog’s URL (www.surviving3boys.com) will win the following:

1 Coupon for Dean’s® Dip
1 Dean’s® Dip Tray (approx. retail value, $10)
1 Dean’s® Stadium Blanket (approx. retail value, $25)

Approximate retail value: $38.00

The 21st person to visit Dean’s® Dip Dipstakes™ on Facebook, become a fan, and mention my blog’s URL (www.surviving3boys.com) will win the following:


1 Coupon for Dean’s® Dip

Approximate retail value: $3.00

That’s All Folks! Good luck, and happy dipping!!!