Pre Monday Syndrome

Mondays hold such frustration for people around the world, that it no longer just affects the beginning of our weekdays.  This undeniably horrific day has now begun to encroach on our weekend.  Every Sunday evening, it happens.  The inevitable return of P.M.S., otherwise known as Pre Monday Syndrome.

While this condition is rarely diagnosed, it is common.  Almost every adult and school aged child suffers from some form of the disease.  Officially, P.M.S. is described as a recurring resentment of the end of a weekend and continued dread of the incoming Monday.  Symptoms may include, but are not limited to:  increased irritability, unexplained grumpiness and/or anxiety, inability to relax, a bad and/or cranky attitude, and a numbness of the brain.

If you do not live with this affliction yourself, there is no doubt that you know someone who has been affected.  As there is no cure, this disorder is commonly ignored by the majority of society.  However, P.M.S. touches us all.

Do you suffer from Pre Monday Syndrome?  Does your loved one suffer from P.M.S.?  What are some ways that you and/or your loved ones treat the symptoms?

*Disclaimer:  Pre Monday Syndrome, P.M.S., is fictional.  Yeah Right! It's so not made up!  It can not be used as an excuse to take Monday off, as your physician will not give you a doctor's note stating that you are suffering from Pre Monday Syndrome.  Don't we all wish!

Happy Monday!

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My Reading Challenge Update:

TWO BINGOS COMPLETE!

Next Up:  Blackout BINGO (entire sheet)

12/16 Total Books Read

1 Book In Progress - Halfway complete!

3 1/2 Total Books Left to Read 

31 Read Days Left

Cupid Shot Me: Romantic Notions

Today I am participating in Diane Estrella's "Cupid Shot Me" stories.  Hop on over to Diane's blog to view the stories of many other bloggers.  Previously posted on July 20, 2009, this is my "Cupid Shot Me" story.  If you know the story, I hope you enjoy reflecting on it again again with me.  If you don't know the story already, enjoy reading it for the first time.

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Meet Me On Monday

This Monday, and random Mondays here after, my blog will reveal something about me. All Meet Me on Monday blogs will be clearly labeled.

Warning:

Overactive reader and writer with romantic notions...

proceed with caution at your own risk!

I sit here ready to take on a topic that almost everyone can identify with in some form or another. Love! We all love, okay so there may be a few exceptions to the rule but love is a part of life. In most cases, we are loved from the very moment we are born. Some, including myself, fall in love with their children before they are even born. Children themselves, love unconditionally. We love pets, nature, cars, careers, books (yes of course books!), & hobbies. As a Christian, I personally believe in a loving God! Love is all around us in many different forms.

I find that one of the biggest, scariest, and most important kinds of love is one that we all strive to find in our lives! Sometimes we look in the worst places, like reality tv because really how often do those things pan out? Sometimes we look in the best places, which is different for everyone because no two people are alike. Often times, we take a chance on love and walk away with a heartbreak the size of Texas and enough teardrops to fill Lake Michigan. Then there are the moments when the Heavens open up just to pour a radiant beam of sunlight down upon you and the true love of your dreams as birds sing a beautiful melodic love song. My mistake, you were the one who had fireworks shooting off in every direction as fireflies danced nearby you and your sweet beloved. Oh, well, it doesn't happen that way for everyone I guess. In my case, I heard the now ancient sounds of dial up Internet (okay so some people still use it) before logging in to a now extinct chat room through the blessed chat website, wbs.net. It was love at first click click click type type type. Yes, I met my one and only prince charming on the Internet, before it was normal, accepted, or cool!

Our love story involves an abundance of Internet chats, many many miles & states of distance, expensive phone cards that were used far too quickly, letters sent via snail mail, and a first meeting (in person) that can rarely be topped. Our first date was 5 months after we met online, in Walt Disney World, Florida. Don't worry, I'll skip right to the good part. Once inside the park, I paced at the entry to Main Street USA while waiting for my TransAmGuy, his Internet chat room name, to arrive and sweep me off of my feet. He approached his SingingSensation (yes my chat handle), with obvious butterflies, before catching my attention with the words, "nice shirt." Yes, we had planned to wear a certain shirt so there would be no mistaken identities. I turned around and stepped off the curb to hug him, which he always insists was me jumping on him. Really, I'm just incredibly short and I had to put some spring in my step to get my arms around his neck. The rest of our 4 days of Disney were spent getting to know each other better and spending half of our time with his parents (he also met my grandmother, an aunt, and an uncle). We discovered a lot of firsts in our relationship on Disney property. Beyond the first look into each other's eyes as we met face to face for the first time, we also held hands for the first time, shared our first kiss, said our first real goodbyes, and after we were married, we even came back to spend our honeymoon in Disney World (as there was no better place to be). We even have our own brick on the ticket and transportation center walkway. Yeah, I prefer to think of myself as a Disney princess or maybe a pixie.

Since the day I met my husband online, I somehow knew he was the one for me. I can't explain it, but it's true. This isn't how it happens for everyone, but it is how it happened for me. I had already fallen before our meeting in Disney world. The face to face in front of Cinderella's castle, well that was just the moment my fairytale dreams became reality. That's not to say that our relationship didn't have it's challenges, and it still does of course, but we love each other enough to work through life's speed bumps. Being married to my one and only true love and prince charming is worth it!

Met... March 23, 1997
Married... March 23, 1999
10 years... March 23, 2009

I love you C.

My soundtrack for today's blog:

Michael Buble, because to me romance & Buble go hand in hand

Words By You Wednesday: Link Up

I've been thinking about ways to get to know you, my blog followers, better.  Last night, as I was half asleep, I thought about the Wordless Wednesdays that I've seen from various bloggers and had an epiphany (I really like that word.  Don't you?).  During a Meet Me On Monday blog, you learn a little about me.  Why not turn random Wednesdays into... Words By You Wednesday.  On Words By You Wednesdays, I will post requests or questions for you.  Are you up for it?

Today, I would like to start with my fellow bloggers:

1.  Please link up!  Post a link to your blog and/or website. 
2.  Why did you start blogging?  Has your purpose changed?
3.  What is your blog "schedule?"

For those who are strictly readers:

1.  Have you ever considered starting a blog of your own?
2.  Do you leave comments for bloggers (on my blog or others)?
3.  What are your favorite types of blogs or blog posts about? 

Please leave a comment with your answers. 

I'm looking forward to getting to know you all a little bit more.

Note:  I may occasionally do a Wordless Wednesday of my own.  All other Wednesdays will be considered Whatever Wednesdays.  You know, whatever I feel like writing about.

Hectic Holidays & Holiday Blog Hours

'Tis the season!  You know, the season for food, friends, family, and festivities.  Not too mention stress, dread, and exhaustion due to some of the previously mentioned holiday staples. 

I find myself beginning to embrace the overwhelming tasks of the upcoming holidays and wonder if I am biting off more than I can chew.  Normally I have most of the Christmas gifts well underhand, but this year I have unpredictably put off purchasing presents until this month of November.  I was wise enough to pick up a few crafty holiday items after Christmas last year.  These will come in handy, as my boys typically do a homemade gift for grandparents, aunts, and uncles.

Thanksgiving is on it's way in 1 1/2 weeks.  We are preparing our home for family visiting from out of state.  Plans of a possible dessert party for the evening of Thanksgiving are underway.  The days are quickly winding down, 10 days to go to be exact.  From that point on, things don't slow down one bit.

How many of you are counting down to Christmas?  If you haven't figured that out yet, it's only 39 days away.  As you are well aware, I'm a crafty mama.  Which means that my holidays are filled with homemade gifts and fun projects.  Bring on the overwhelmed feeling mentioned above. 

As crazy as things may get, I still wouldn't trade my seasons full of sewing, baking, and other general crafting activities.  My homemade holidays will always be full of great memories to share with my children.  I hope they will do the same with their kids someday. 

With this being the busiest time of year for just about everyone, especially Santa, I've come to the conclusion that something has to give.  Through the seasons of thankfulness and Christmas cheer, I will be cutting back on the amount of blog postings each week.  You will see a blog post on every Monday, but Meet Me On Monday will be more random as it was originally described.  I'm hardly at work on my WIP (work in progress) and have officially dubbed my Wednesdays as WIP Wednesdays until I'm able to make a vast amount of progress on it.  Which brings me to Fridays.  Fridays are going to be unpredictable-- yes I know this is just a more interesting way to say random.  Unless I have something really exciting or interesting to say, I probably won't be posting on Friday.  I'm referring to this as Holiday Blog Hours.  When January 2010 rolls around, I'll be the first to throw the confetti in the air and get back into the regular swing of things.  Regular blogging hours should return at that time.

How are you planning to keep up with the hectic holiday schedule?  Is your Thanksgiving filled with and abundance of food, family, and fun?  Do you wait until the last minute to do your Christmas shopping?  Is your calendar full over the next 1 1/2 months?  Do you have to cut a little out of your normal schedule to handle the heavy holiday load?

Meet Me On Monday: Halloween Past

Meet Me On Monday:

This Monday, and random Mondays here after, my blog will reveal something about me.

All Meet Me On Monday blogs will be clearly labeled.

 

Warning:

Three parts Halloween,

All fun equally,

In which I will be seen,

But who will I be?

 

As I've mentioned before, my father was not keen on Halloween.  However, I was allowed to partake in the school classroom costume parties, and even dress up with my older brother before I was in school.  My memories, and photos, from these days and moments are few, but the ones I do have make me smile.

 

My Mom is a sewing queen.  When I was a child, she used her talents to create some of my costumes and these are the ones that I remember the most.  Before I started school, my brother & I loved to clown around.  With a little face paint and some fabric, my Mom created 2 very innocent and non scary clowns.  I remember the elastic that held the sleeves in place around my wrist, the feel of the fabric around my hand, and feeling extremely special because my Mom created it.

The friendliest lion and silly white bunny came to town around the time of my Kindergarten year.  These were 2 more of my Mom's creative masterpieces.  My bunny ears were attached to a removable hood, and would later be paired with a bumblebee costume by one of my younger siblings.  At the end of the sleeves were mitten like pockets that could be pulled over the hand.  This was one of the few times that I remember ever being allowed to "trick-or-treat."  My Mom drove us over to visit a relative, who was expecting us, and we enjoyed a sweet treat and a nice visit.  With a carrot in hand, I was one hoppy bunny, I mean happy girl.

By first grade, I was asking for a Miss Piggy costume.  Try as she may, my Mom was unable to find one of the well sought after plastic masked costumes.  She tried up till the day of my class party, but when it was time for the "parade," I wore a costume that resembled a plastic Kewpie doll.  Beyond that, I can't really remember any of the cheap plastic costumes that everyone sported in the 1980's.

 Break out the Ricky Nelson, Frankie Avalon, Elvis Presley, & Chuck Berry music, put on your saddle shoes (blue suede if you dare), and do the bop, the swing, & the twist!  In 3rd grade I sported one of my favorite costumes. I was addicted to my Mom's "oldies" tunes, so it only made sense that I became a 1950's sock hopper.  For a girl who spent time dreaming about living in the 50's, this costume helped me experience a tiny bit of it in the 1980's. 

 

The rest of my school day costumes are forgotten.  I honestly couldn't begin to tell you what other characters I became over the years.  Okay, not entirely true, I did have a costume made for me while I was a senior in high school.  I just never wore it in public, until much much later. 

Today, my kids and I fully enjoy the chance to dress up and become someone, or something else, but you'll have to wait until Wednesday to catch a glimpse at that.

What do you remember from your childhood Halloweens?  A favorite costume?  Trick or treating?

Meet Me On Monday: Mini Mindy Monday Madness Round 3

Meet Me On Monday:

This Monday, and random Mondays here after, my blog will reveal something about me. 

All Meet Me On Monday blogs will be clearly labeled.

Warning: Mini Mindy Monday Madness will ensue further into this posting! Please proceed with caution and be careful not to step on the pixies!

 

 

Welcome to Mini Mindy Monday Madness (aka M4), Round 3. I previously took my typical "Meet Me On Monday" topic to a new level with M4 Round 1 & Round 2.  On Mini Mindy Monday Madness days, I give 5 random facts and/or photos that showcase a little bit of who I am.  As you learned some very serious information about me on Friday, thank you for your support & comments through Blogger and off of Blogger by the way, I thought I would keep today's post very light and fun!  These tid bits are from days that have long since gone by.  I will pick up where I left off with #11 on the list. Enjoy!

 

11.  I am the 2nd born of 4 children and the oldest daughter.  All of my siblings, and myself, have names that begin with the letter M.  Our birth order goes boy, girl, girl, boy.  We range from 32 to 26 at this current date.

 

12.  I have been published on a local level in the past.  While in high school, I wrote and took pictures for a couple of local papers as a student volunteer reporter.  On one occasion, I was even paid for my work.  I was active on the school newspaper as well.

 

13.  As you know, I love memory keeping.  I fell in love with layouts in high school as an editor of the school yearbook, I was able to help create a "scrapbook" of memories for my school mates.  Around this time in my life is also when I started my first simple scrapbook.

14.  I've got spirit, yes I do!  I've got spirit! How about you?  I wore my school colors proudly as a cheerleader!  If you've ever seen a football or basketball game, did you notice the cheerleaders?  As the smallest girl on the squad, although I had a friend who wasn't much bigger than I am, you would often find me being thrown into the air as a "flyer."  Go team!

15.   Just call me book nerd, smarty pants, and goody-two-shoes (yes, a classmate did call me this) as I was a National Honor Society member and graduated with Highest Honors (no, not the Valedictorian) from high school.  Since I have given birth to my children, I believe some of my brain power has been drained.  *wink to all the moms*

What number were you in your family?  Do you have any fun facts from those high school days?  What do you want to know about me?  Feel free to ask and I'll be happy to hit on that topic in one of my future "Meet Me On Monday" or "Mini Mindy Monday Madness" days.

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Did you notice the new button on my page?  Take a moment to look for a special hidden Mickey.  What do you think of the Autumn leaves?  Tinkerbell got tired and needed a rest, so here she sits on a jack-o-lantern watching over CMOMProductions.  I wonder what she'll do when it's Thanksgiving time...

Meet Me On Monday: I Heart Boots

Meet Me On Monday:

This Monday, and random Mondays here after, my blog will reveal something about me.

All Meet Me On Monday blogs will be clearly labeled.

Warning:  Following this statement you may begin to feel the need to sing These Boots Are Made For Walking or Whose Bed Have Your Boots Been Under or other footwear related songs.

I love boots!  No, I'm not talking about the monkey from Dora.  I'm a fan of boots, the footwear.  As much as I would love to claim that I own an abundance of boots, sadly it is not true.  While perusing weekly ads, browsing in the stores, or watching tv, you can often catch me looking longingly at a knee high pair of foot coverage.  It's one of my forms of kryptonite, my weakness.

I'm not certain where it all began, but the photo above showcases one of my first pairs of non-winter boots.  What's not to love about a little blonde girl in an oversized yellow "Cute" kitten shirt with infamous cowboy, or should I say cowgirl, boots adorning her feet?  I still have a passion for a good pair of country western inspired footwear.  Maybe it's partly due to the Southern roots I get from my Mom's side of the family, either way I would wear them to do a boot scootin' boogie or just to add a bit of spunk to my day.  The excuse I used to purchase the pair I currently own, was that I needed them for a Halloween costume.

My favorite pair of foot enhancements is the beautiful black pair that I purchased from Target (see above).  The only problem is that my tiny feet and my muscular calves don't always agree on this pair, but a little extra squeeze is fine with me.  I really like the way I feel when I add a little height & sleekness to my legs. 

Above, you will find the remaining pairs of my boot collection.  Two were purchased for costumes, but only one of those pairs has been worn on a regular basis.  The bright shiny & red vinyl platforms are seen only when Supergirl is needed.  My white suede boots were perfect for Halloween costumes past, but have been seen multiple other times as well.  I purchased my very warm brown & tan suede pair as well as my shiny black winter boots on clearance at Kohls.  Both keep my feet very warm, but while the suede ones are perfect for Fall, the black pair keep my feet very dry in the Winter snow.

While out school shopping for O in late August, I spotted these beautiful boots that reminded me of a very, very tall Converse shoe.  My husband and son humored me as I tried them on, however they would not allow me to add them to my collection.  Apparently, 30 year old moms aren't allowed to wear this style, but they certainly were a lot of fun!  If only I needed them for a costume, they'd be mine! 

I still feel as though there are not enough boots in my wardrobe, but until I win the lottery I'll have to keep my boot addiction in check.  I heart boots!

Is there a pair of fabulous footwear in your closet?  What is your favorite pair of footwear? Do you favor a comfy pair of sneakers, sandals, or pumps? 

Meet Me On Monday: Mini Mindy Monday Madness Round 2

Meet Me On Monday:

This Monday, and random Mondays here after, my blog will reveal something about me.

All Meet Me On Monday blogs will be clearly labeled.

Warning: Mini Mindy Monday Madness will ensue further into this posting! Please proceed with caution and be careful not to step on the pixies!

 

Welcome to Mini Mindy Monday Madness, Round 2.  I previously took my typical "Meet Me On Monday" topic to a new level in round 1 of Mini Mindy Monday Madness (aka M4). On M4 days, I give 5 random facts and/or photos that showcase a little bit of who I am. I will pick up where I left off with #6 on the list.  Enjoy!

 

6.  My favorite color is green, emerald green to be exact.  Now, because of this fact, you would think that I would be a big fan of The Emerald City in the Wizard of Oz.  As beautiful as the place sounds, I'm really not into the witches and flying monkeys that go along with the Oz adventure.  I do however, love the gemstone.  Unfortunately, as much as I love it, I do not own an authentic sparkling green beauty.  What's another reason to love green?  Well, Tinker fairies wear the color...  including Tinkerbell!

 

7.  I know it's hard to tell, but I love Disney!  I can see the shock written across your face.  I swear it's true!  I'm a huge hard core 24/7/365 Disney fan.  What do I love best about it?  Well, from Disney movies, to characters, to Disney World, to games, etc (as the list goes on & on), the biggest thing I love about Disney is how excited I feel about it.  Aside from the obvious fact that I met my husband face to face in Disney World, it's always been a special place to me.  I have been a Disney fan since I was a kid, a baby actually.  My Mom made me a baby blanket and Tigger bounces all over the bottom piece of fabric.  While expressing my love for all things Disney, I might as well tell you my secret wish has always been to be the singing voice of a character with as much spirit as Ariel!  If Tinkerbell ever sings in an upcoming movie, someone please give the casting director my phone number!

 

8.  I am the paparazzi... to my boys that is.  As a scrapbooker, I'm constantly snapping photographs.  I have this desire to capture all of the special moments and memories that I can.  Sometimes my kids love it, sometimes they hate it.  Either way, they usually know it's coming...  and when they don't, it's even better!

 

9.  My type A personality, leaves me constantly going.  It's a very rare thing to see me sitting idle on the couch.  Relaxing is not something I do well.  Actually, it usually leaves me feeling a bit tense when I have nothing to do or am bored.

 

10.  On Halloween, you will find me dressed up along with my kids.  This tradition started when my oldest son was an infant and hasn't stopped yet.  When I was a child, my father referred to Halloween as "the devil's holiday," so aside from the school's costume parade, I wasn't allowed to dress up or go trick-or-treating.  Maybe that's why I enjoy it so much as an adult.  When Halloween 2009 rolls around, I shall post an ode to costumes past for everyone to enjoy. 

 

Are there any special topics you'd like me to post about for the round 3 of Mini Mindy Monday Madness?  Is there anything new you would like to know about me?

Meet Me On Monday: Somebody Save Me

Meet Me On Monday:

This Monday, and random Mondays here after, my blog will reveal something about me.  All Meet Me On Monday blogs will be clearly labeled.

Warning:  Please leave your kryptonite in it's lead box!  Should you stumble upon a secret identity, please remember to protect that secret with your life if you must.  I would like to thank you in advance for doing so, as you are now helping to keep the rest of the world safe from harm.  For those among us who are SUPER, you are safe here.

The worlds of super heroes and villains all began with an overactive imagination.  What's not to love about that?  Can you imagine for a minute how these many characters came to life?  If you wonder, take a minute to read this article by the NY Times, written after the passing of a co-creator for one of the biggest comic book heroes in existence... Superman.  In reading this, it's easy to see that even the simplest things can give us astounding ideas!  The man of steel is one of my favorite artistically induced imagined superstars.  I'm a fan of SUPER HEROES!

If you asked me to name my all time favorite TV show, it would quickly land in the comic book inspired genre.  This is true throughout my years.  As a teen it was Lois & Clark The Adventures of Superman starring Dean Cain and Terri Hatcher.  When I was a girl, I loved to watch reruns of Wonder Woman and the old Batman TV show.  As a fan of Clark Kent, Lois Lane, and Metropolis, I couldn't contain my excitement when The WB (now known as The CW) announced that a show titled Smallville would premiere on October 16, 2001!  I must admit, I was hooked before the pilot episode.  There's something special about watching Clark Kent discover who he is and what he is capable of.  However, there have been some big changes in the show over the years.  If you compared the first season with current Smallville episodes, you'd see more comic book storylines now than before.  Only 2 of the original cast remain as well, Tom Welling as Clark and Allison Mack as Chloe (most missed- Michael Rosenbaum as Lex Luthor aka Sexy Lexy).We've seen various other heroes on the Smallville scene as well.  Let me name a few:  Green Arrow (I heart Justin Hartley), Cyborg, Aquaman, Impulse aka Flash, and of course Supergirl.   Although there have been many changes, I still LOVE this show!  It's obvious that others feel the same way, as we are moving into Season 9 this Fall.  There is even a dedicated website for fans of the show, beware the spoilers!  Just a reminder for fellow fans, don't forget to pick up Season 8 in stores tomorrow!

Beyond my love for all things Smallville, I own a few different kinds of super hero memorabilia.  In my closet hangs a Supergirl costume that my Mom made me in high school.  My most obvious collection is clothing, I'm addicted to the shirts showcasing my favorites.  Wonder Woman and Supergirl clearly stand out in my wardrobe.  I know, it doesn't make me look any older, but I just can't help it!

I could take a long time to list more of my favorites and the reasons why, but maybe I should just tell you why I love super heroes in general?  Okay, but first I must just add that I made sure I was able to watch Smallville while in the hospital after giving birth to my first son (except a special was on that evening instead) and my first time away from my first baby boy was to see an X-Men movie in the theatre.  It's not about the handsome men, although Hugh Jackman can call me Bub any day & Chris O'Donnell is one dreamy Robin, but about how I feel when I see the good guy/girl doing everything he/she can to save the day.

When I was a kid, I read everything I could get my hands on.  Including my older brother's comic books.  I think that's where my love of super heroes began.  The idea of having super powers and standing up for what you believed in, drew me in.  Who wouldn't want someone like that around to save you from the bad guys in your life?  I know I did.  As I got older, I felt more drawn to wanting to be the hero than being saved by one.  I don't have super human abilities, shhh I'm sticking with my secret identity here, but I do want to stand up for what's right.  Superman is inspiring in that way.  Of course, there is a lot of responsibility with those powers, even super heroes can't do it all or save everyone.  Which leads to the guilt factor.  How many of these heroes walk around feeling guilty or heartbroken because of someone they couldn't save?  Would you be surprised that most of them do?  All of these factors equal one great story after another. 

I'm not sure if I've accurately captured or explained my love for super heroes, but I think you get it.  I'm a Super Nerd! 

Meet Me On Monday: Adventures With Pixie Dust

Meet Me On Monday:

This Monday, and random Mondays here after, my blog will reveal something about me.

All Meet Me On Monday blogs will be clearly labeled.

Warning:  Meet Me On Monday usually includes a crazy warning...  However, today it's just a THANK YOU!  Thank you to my husband, C, for helping me update my blog space!  I love you!
 

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The drum roll has been played, the curtains have been pulled back, and the new look of CMOM Productions has been unveiled!  TA DA! 
 
After a lot of hard work on my husband's part, and a little pixie dust, I have a new blog background!  It did take a number of adjustments and some compromises from my original design plan, but it's me.  I put together the buttons and flowers, but my husband handled the majority of the "putting it all together" details.  All in all, it was a team effort, but he deserves most of the credit because I would not have been able to pull this one off on my own.
 
If you peruse the bulletin board of buttons, you will find a little piece of me in each one.  Ah yes, you can't fully understand the meaning without a bit of  description to coordinate it all. 
 
Okay, off to Mini Mindy Land!  Here's a little  *.*.*. Pixie Dust .*.*.* and off we go!
 
It all begins with the self explanatory CMOM Productions piece.  It has a scrapbooking feel to it and is one of my favorites!
 
Look out!  It's a fairy fly by!  Here we have the beautiful Tink resting upon a flower.  She's a major favorite of mine.  Not many can beat a short girl with spunk and determination.  For someone who is pixie sized, you can't go wrong with the #1 fairy in everyone's hearts!
 
On we go to the beautiful scenic shores of Lake Michigan...  Look at those adorable blonde boys!  Oh wait, those two handsome little men belong to me!  I love this old photo of my guys playing at the water's edge. 
 
Looks like we left some footprints in the sand.  Well, maybe not exactly.  This is a representation of faith for me and many others. 
 
Please be careful of my tiara as you pass by.  Again, being the only female in our home I cannot be seen without it. 
 
Look out below!!!  My love of books is lovingly showcased as simply as possible.
 
Moving forward you will see a bird, I mean a plane, okay I mean the logo of Superman (or Supergirl) and WonderWoman.  If you were not aware, my nerd-dom branches out into the lands of comic book heroes.  Before long, an entire post will be devoted to my favorites and why I love these heroes so much! 
 
Bounce upward and keep right on bouncing!  Hoo hoo hoo hoo!  Tiggerific!  Before I was born, my Mom made me a baby blanket and Tigger is featured upon the back.  I believe my love for this bouncy, trouncy, flouncy, pouncy, fun, fun, fun, fun, fun character began there.
 
Let yourself float down towards the beautiful Portland Headlight in Cape Elizabeth, Maine.  Aaahh... I feel calm, relaxed, and invigorated by the ocean air already.  Don't you?  With half of my family being Maine natives, and 6 wonderful years of my life spent there, I had to showcase a state that is my 2nd home (in my heart at least).
 
Walk with me once again.  The pink ribbon you see is a reminder and a statement.  You see, I supported a dear friend in her battle with breast cancer by creating a Race For The Cure team in her honor a few years ago.  Today, she's a survivor and I'm truly grateful to have her in my life!  *HUGS* You know who you are!
 
Do you hear that music?  Follow it's sound to the retro style microphone you see before you.  It represents my love of song!  I could make this "brief" statement go on forever, so let me put it as simply as possible.  Listen, sing, play, dance, & love!!!!
 
Be careful as you move forward, this path is not always so easy or simple.  I know this to be true and I salute the men and women of our armed forces here!  Thank you for all you do!
 
Now we must cross the soft petals of a light blue flower and jump into the land of Scrapbook.  I hope you brought along your trusty scissors so we can crop ourselves out of here, before we are forever captured in time.  Many memories are stored and cherished here... and many hours can be spent in this fabulous world.
 
M-I-C-K-E-Y  M-O-U-S-E!!!  Well, Mickey & Minnie go hand in hand so I couldn't possibly post one without the other.  *sigh*  Disney is more than just a bunch of crazy characters in my book.  It's a piece of me, and there is no question that my family feels the same.  My husband and I can even say "it all began with a mouse..." when we are asked about our first date.
 
This adventure has been fun, but it's about time to make tracks.  The paw print you see in front of you is that of a wild animal!  Actually, it represents my school spirit, both past and present!  From high school cheerleader to PTO Mom, I love being true to my school.  Well, now days it's my kid's school.
 
Wow!  I'm sure you are in need of a nap after that long *.*.*. Pixie Dust .*.*.*  fueled journey!  I hope you've enjoyed just a little bit more insight as to what makes me who I am.  Before you leave, please let me know what you think of the new layout.  Do you think it captures the essence of CMOM Productions?  Thank you for visiting and come again soon!  Send my regards to you travel agents!!!

Meet Me On Monday: Mini Mindy Monday Madness

Meet Me On Monday:

This Monday, and random Mondays here after, my blog will reveal something about me.
All Meet Me On Monday blogs will be clearly labeled.

Warning: Mini Mindy Monday Madness will ensue further into this posting! Please proceed with caution and be careful not to step on the pixies!

I love thunderstorms! However, this weekend I didn't enjoy them as much as I normally do. You see, I was unable to spend the amount of time needed on the computer creating my personalized blog page. I was actually in the middle of working on one of the pieces when our power, and my computer, clicked off. Thankfully, I hit save just before the power went out. All of our electronics, okay only the tv and computer, were quickly unplugged before any serious damage could be done. So, I will be working on my update over the week and plan to unveil it Friday morning!

In spite of the disappointment, I would like to take my "Meet Me On Monday" topic to a new level. I call it Mini Mindy Monday Madness (aka M4). On M4 days, I will give 5 random facts and/or photos that showcase a little bit of who I am. Enjoy!

1. I am known as Melinda or Mindy. Professionally, I always planned to use Melinda Marie. Those who really know me just call me "Mindy." Lately, I have been debating on what name I want to use if I do someday, somehow publish a book.

2. I'm really tiny! Before I met my husband in person, I tried to make sure he was fully prepared for my mini Mindy status. He thought he was prepared, and then he saw me. Later he told me his reaction was "She wasn't lying! She really IS short!" At just a hair over 4' 10" tall and under 100 lbs (a mark I hit only while pregnant), I've learned how to live in pixie style and fully embrace it! In fact, when we travelled to Pixie Hollow in the Magic Kingdom, where everyone is "shrunk" down to pixie size, the tiniest fairy was Tinkerbell... until I arrived.

3. I'm a princess. Okay, not technically, but in my own home I certainly am. I recently bought a shirt that says "it's a girl's world, boys just live here," but in my house that's not entirely true. I'm the only female to occupy my home, which makes me the princess! Just ask my boys and my husband.

4. I am musically inclined. I used to play the flute and I dabble in the art of guitar, but singing is the music in me. While I love most kinds of music, I used to sing country. Almost 10 years ago, I recorded 2 traditional country cds under the name Melinda Marie. Although I don't think those cds showcase who I am or my abilities today, it is a part of my past that I can be proud of. That past also holds plenty of performances of the National Anthem in Michigan and the East coast, as well as some weddings, funerals, and other events.

5. I am a "Crafty Mama." I sew, scrapbook, paint, decoupage, and do many many other crafty things. My sister, sister-in-law, & Mom gave me a crafting apron that says "Crafty Mama" on it, along with a "Queen of Crafting" mug. I think this "craft it all" attitude is the type A in me. At times, my desire to constantly be busy with something gets out of hand... and it takes over the living room.

Meet Me On Monday: Two Loves Meet

Meet Me On Monday:

This Monday, and random Monday's here after, my blog will reveal something about me. All meet me on Monday blogs will be clearly labeled.

Warning: Caution! Extreme crafty book nerd, with a strong love of the public library... Continue reading at your own risk!

As you may have previously read, I love books. Since learning to read as a kid, I was rarely seen without one in my possession. My Mom told me recently that she spoke with some former customers (of the family business) and they asked how her daughter was doing. To clarify, they said "the book worm, the one who was always reading." It's true, I'm a book nerd... and simply proud of it.

After having my children I found less and less time to read. In fact, at times it felt as though I was thirsty and the water was in reach, but I was unable to drink it. My kids however, kept me busy and fulfilled so I didn't often have time to think about how much I truly missed reading.

This past winter, while on the website for my local public library, I noticed a posting for a reading club. It was set up specifically for adults. The library had cleverly set it up as a BINGO card to be filled out. Every space held a different category, for instance mystery, a book from a series, craft/hobby fiction or non fiction, etc. There were prizes as incentive, but filling out the card was goal enough for me. Choosing a book in each category was my biggest challenge. The library had once again ignited my love of reading! *I will list the categories and books I read at the end of my blog.

While filling out my BINGO card, I decided to choose a scrapbooking themed fiction title to read for the crafty/hobby fiction box. I looked at some suggestions made by the library and came across a familiar sounding book. It was Coming Unglued: A Sister's Ink Novel by Rebeca Seitz. I had seen the first book in this series while browsing in a bookstore one day. I had put it on my "to read" list at the time, but not yet had the opportunity to actually read the book. I decided that now was the time to do so. I checked out the first available book in the series, which was the second, Coming Unglued. Long story short, I loved it and have since read all four of the Sister's Ink series novels by Rebeca Seitz, as well as a 5th book titled Prints Charming.

While reading these wonderful books, I began to wish I had a group to scrapbook with, just as the sisters (and friends) do in the novels. I wanted a chance to get together and bond with other women without having to pay a scrapbooking store to use their space. The more I thought about this, the more I wanted to make it happen. My big question was... "but where?" Most people don't have enough room in their homes to have a group event. Then my thoughts went to the local library, where in a sense this desire all began. Our public library already has a knitting club, so starting one for scrapbooking made sense to me. I decided to take a chance and contact the library, via the website, about my idea. A short time later, I received an email in which interest was expressed. I was told to speak with the librarians at my local branch. I did just that, and they full embraced the start of a scrapbooking group!

Today is my second ever monthly scrapbook group evening at the local library's community room. Not only did the library help me get back into my reading habit, but it also gave me the opportunity to start a group that will hopefully involve making new friends, while enjoying one of my favorite hobbies. I certainly do love the library!

Yes, I scrapbook and I'm a book nerd... and I wouldn't change it for a second!

Winter Reading Club Books

International Theme or Author Atonement Ian McEwan

Pet/Animal Fiction or Non Fiction Anyone But You Jennifer Crusie

County Program Book/Readalike Plainsong Kent Haruf

Your Choice Sisters Ink Rebeca Seitz

Book to Movie Nights In Rodanthe Nicholas Sparks

Mystery or Thriller The Spy Who Came For Christmas David Morrell

Your Choice Where Are You Now? Mary Higgins Clark

Hobby Fiction or Non Fiction Coming Unglued: A Sister's Ink Novel Rebeca Seitz

Biography Fiction or Nonfiction Three Weeks With My Brother Nicholas Sparks

Your Choice Confessions of a Shopaholic Sophie Kinsella

NY Times Bestseller or Award Winner The Lucky One Nicholas Sparks

Green Book (by color or topic) Edge of Winter LuAnn Rice

Your Choice Anne of Ingleside LM Montgomery

Book in a Series Women's Murder Club Series: 7th Heaven James Patterson

Historical Fiction or Nonfiction One Thousand White Women: The Journals of May Dodd Jim Fergus

Staff Picks Home: A Memoir of my Early Years Julie Andrews

Meet Me On Monday: The O & M of CMOM

Meet Me On Monday

This Monday, and random Mondays here after, my blog will reveal something about me. All Meet Me On Monday blogs will be clearly labeled.

Warning:

The rantings of an exhausted mother of 2 young boys to follow... proceed with caution at your own risk!

You are about to embrace the Mom side of me. Being a Mom is a major portion of my life. Often, I put my children ahead of myself, as most mothers do. Some days I am Super Mom and I fly through the day with ease, always coming to the rescue when a toy is missing or a boo-boo needs bandaging. Then there are the days where I feel as though I can't find one moment of peace and quiet, my kids are fighting without a chance of resolution, and my mind is stuck in the washing machine. Those days, I feel as though I could run out the door screaming! Don't we all have those days and those moments? Please tell me I am NOT the only one here!

My children have run me ragged today, and we are barely into the afternoon. Don't get me wrong, I love them dearly and would do just about anything for my boys. However, they have pushed me to my limits today. Actually, let me clarify, my youngest son is the one who has left me feeling drained.

Today, my youngest son, I'll call him M, has pushed every button that I have! The details would only aggravate me more at this point. He is my "Fudgie" (go read Judy Blume's Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing -- Fudge book series). M has found ways to torment his mother, that his older brother never attempted. In fact, I don't think my oldest son, let's refer to him as O, ever imagined even trying to test me in the ways that M does. Aah yes, they are like day and night.

M is stubborn, shy, and his emotions are never invisible. If he's grumpy, you know it. If he's happy, he'll make you smile. When he's mad, look out! Giggles, silliness, and laughter are contagious with M. You always know where you stand, even if you don't understand why. M is a morning person and detail oriented. When M wants something, or decides something, it's not easy to sidetrack him. If he has a goal in mind, he's got his eye on the prize. He loves books, but prefers playing with cars and has a soft spot for Herbie the love bug. He is quiet and independent. M can be the most adorable and sweetest kid on the planet, when he wants to be.

O is outgoing, kind, and shows his emotions easily. He is extremely expressive and open with others. Often times you will hear him talking "older" than he is. O is the kid who is always willing to give a hug, kiss, or just cuddle with you. He LOVES to read and write. I see his future in the Arts (acting, music, or writing mostly). O is rarely quiet and is a very social child. He can be goofy or completely serious. Music is another love of my eldest son, always singing when he isn't talking. He is slightly obsessed with super heroes and Transformers, Bumblebee is #1 in his book. O will never be a fighter, except when necessary, but always a kind hearted soul.

These are my kids. They inspire me, exhaust me, enlighten me, scare me, make me laugh, make me cry, frustrate me, help me, encourage me, tease me, tolerate me, make me happy, and bring out the best, and worst, in me. Most of all, they love me and I love them too... with all of my heart and soul! I protect them like the biggest scariest Mama Lioness in the world, even though I'm probably one of the tiniest. These 2 "little men" of mine are the reason I want to be a better Mom and a better person. Without them, my life wouldn't be the same and wouldn't hold as much meaning, hope, or love. Knowing them is like knowing a part of me, because O & M are a huge part of my heart.

CMOM Productions

C - is for the man who loves me so

M - oh that's me, didn't you know?

O - is my first born son, he helped me grow

M - is my second born son, who completed my soul.

Productions- it's all about the life we live, people we love, and places we go.

Meet Me On Monday: Romantic Notions

Meet Me On Monday

This Monday, and random Mondays here after, my blog will reveal something about me. All Meet Me on Monday blogs will be clearly labeled.

Warning:

Overactive reader and writer with romantic notions...

proceed with caution at your own risk!

I sit here ready to take on a topic that almost everyone can identify with in some form or another. Love! We all love, okay so there may be a few exceptions to the rule but love is a part of life. In most cases, we are loved from the very moment we are born. Some, including myself, fall in love with their children before they are even born. Children themselves, love unconditionally. We love pets, nature, cars, careers, books (yes of course books!), & hobbies. As a Christian, I personally believe in a loving God! Love is all around us in many different forms.

I find that one of the biggest, scariest, and most important kinds of love is one that we all strive to find in our lives! Sometimes we look in the worst places, like reality tv because really how often do those things pan out? Sometimes we look in the best places, which is different for everyone because no two people are alike. Often times, we take a chance on love and walk away with a heartbreak the size of Texas and enough teardrops to fill Lake Michigan. Then there are the moments when the Heavens open up just to pour a radiant beam of sunlight down upon you and the true love of your dreams as birds sing a beautiful melodic love song. My mistake, you were the one who had fireworks shooting off in every direction as fireflies danced nearby you and your sweet beloved. Oh, well, it doesn't happen that way for everyone I guess. In my case, I heard the now ancient sounds of dial up Internet (okay so some people still use it) before logging in to a now extinct chat room through the blessed chat website, wbs.net. It was love at first click click click type type type. Yes, I met my one and only prince charming on the Internet, before it was normal, accepted, or cool!

Our love story involves an abundance of Internet chats, many many miles & states of distance, expensive phone cards that were used far too quickly, letters sent via snail mail, and a first meeting (in person) that can rarely be topped. Our first date was 5 months after we met online, in Walt Disney World, Florida. Don't worry, I'll skip right to the good part. Once inside the park, I paced at the entry to Main Street USA while waiting for my TransAmGuy, his Internet chat room name, to arrive and sweep me off of my feet. He approached his SingingSensation (yes my chat handle), with obvious butterflies, before catching my attention with the words, "nice shirt." Yes, we had planned to wear a certain shirt so there would be no mistaken identities. I turned around and stepped off the curb to hug him, which he always insists was me jumping on him. Really, I'm just incredibly short and I had to put some spring in my step to get my arms around his neck. The rest of our 4 days of Disney were spent getting to know each other better and spending half of our time with his parents (he also met my grandmother, an aunt, and an uncle). We discovered a lot of firsts in our relationship on Disney property. Beyond the first look into each other's eyes as we met face to face for the first time, we also held hands for the first time, shared our first kiss, said our first real goodbyes, and after we were married, we even came back to spend our honeymoon in Disney World (as there was no better place to be). We even have our own brick on the ticket and transportation center walkway. Yeah, I prefer to think of myself as a Disney princess or maybe a pixie.


Since the day I met my husband online, I somehow knew he was the one for me. I can't explain it, but it's true. This isn't how it happens for everyone, but it is how it happened for me. I had already fallen before our meeting in Disney world. The face to face in front of Cinderella's castle, well that was just the moment my fairytale dreams became reality. That's not to say that our relationship didn't have it's challenges, and it still does of course, but we love each other enough to work through life's speed bumps. Being married to my one and only true love and prince charming is worth it!

Met... March 23, 1997
Married... March 23, 1999
10 years... March 23, 2009

I love you C.

My soundtrack for today's blog:

Michael Buble, because to me romance & Buble go hand in hand