My husband went out with some of his fraternity brothers last night.  Today, he shared with me some of the interesting things that happened… and that’s what spurred this post.  We had a good laugh as we thought about things that never happen until you’re married.  I hope you find our list entertaining…

7 THINGS THAT NEVER HAPPEN UNTIL YOU’RE MARRIED:

1.  A car full of single, attractive, lonely women, looking for a dude to entertain them, just rode up next to you and asked “Where’s the party?”  (inspired by my husband’s evening with the fellas)

2.   Your friend nominated you for ABC’s hit reality show “The Bachelor” or the “The Bachelorette” while you were still single.  ABC is filming the next season in your local area.  They are looking for someone just like you and gave you a call for an interview.

3.  Your single friends just watched “How Stella Got Her Groove Back” or an episode of “Girls Gone Wild” and invited you to an all-expense-paid trip to an exotic, secluded, nude beach.

4.   Your first love, who you searched for ten years to reconnect with and thought you’d never see again, just wrote you on Facebook: “I miss you.  I’m still single.  Are you?”

5.   The family attorney just found your deceased uncle’s hand-written will.  Since Uncle Cool never thought someone would actually marry you, he bequeathed $10 million to you if you never got married, as a consolation gift.

6.  Your single friends are hosting a co-ed pajama party.

7.  You just received a lucrative job offer from Hugh Hefner to be his personal assistant.  It requires you to move into the playboy mansion and keep the ladies entertained.  Your commitment to the job must be a minimum of five years.  Sorry, ladies.  I couldn’t think of an equivalent for this one.

Update:  this is the female equivalent…

Hugh Hefner wants you to be one of his pampered princesses. He gives you a brand new mercedes, $100,000 savings account, $10,000/ month stipend, tells you to do whatever you want, whenever as long as you stay at the mansion for a guaranteed five-year term.

For married readers:  Anything happened to you that you know wouldn’t have if you were single?  

For single readers:  Anything you want to happen that you know probably won’t until you’re married?

I received the following family food expenditure photos in an email.  You know how that goes… good information, but no particular origination source to site.  Nevertheless, I thought it was interesting enough to share with you because…

1)  The current economic slump has many of us looking closer at our spending habits and thinking about ways to save money.  Some families may be buying more groceries and eating out less.  Seeing how others eat for less may inspire someone to implement more creative ways to shave bucks off his or her own family food expenditure bill.  Click here to learn 20 ways to save on groceries.

AND…

2)  The current obesity rates give cause for pause (hey, that rhymes).  We need to make our nutrition and overall health more of a priority.  Taking a closer look at our junk to healthy food ratio, may allow us to see where the obesity epidemic and other weight-related problems should be attacked first–at the dinner table.

Take a good look at the family size and diet of each country, and the availability and cost of what is eaten in one week:

Italy: The Manzo family of Sicily
Food expenditure for one week: 214.36 Euros or $260.11

Germany: The Melander family of Bargteheide
Food expenditure for one week: 375.39 Euros or $500.07

United States: The Revis family of North Carolina

Food expenditure for one week $341.98

Mexico: The Casales family of Cuernavaca
Food expenditure for one week: 1,862.78 Mexican Pesos or $189.09

Poland: The Sobczynscy family of Konstancin-Jeziorna
Food expenditure for one week: 582.48 Zlotys or $151.27

Egypt: The Ahmed family of Cairo
Food expenditure for one week: 387.85 Egyptian Pounds or $68.53

Ecuador: The Ayme family of Tingo
Food expenditure for one week: $31.55

Bhutan: The Namgay family of Shingkhey Village
Food expenditure for one week: 224.93 ngultrum or $5.03

Chad: The Aboubakar family of Breidjing Camp
Food expenditure for one week: 685 CFA Francs or $1.23

So, what’s your family eating?  How much is it costing per week?

I mentioned previously how much I enjoy reading Parenting magazine (Early Years).  The March 2009 issue has a funny article about playdates.  Since my daughter and I meet other moms and babies every Tuesday for a playgroup (sometimes other days with other groups), I thought this article would be very fitting to share with you this Tuesday.

The featured picture was taken during the playgroup at my house two weeks ago.  Yes, I actually hosted one… and that’s not as easy as it sounds.  Sometimes the babies get a little cranky, particularly so close to their nap times.  That’s usually when you can tell it’s time to end the playgroup.

In case you’re hosting a playdate or group, Parenting magazine gives the following tip on determining when it’s time to end it…

7 signs the playdate should end:

1. You just saw the diamond necklace your husband gave you for your anniversary pass by on a child who isn’t even yours.

2. You’ve convinced yourself it’s not such a bad day to send the kids outside. After all, it isn’t raining sideways or anything.

3. The pint-size opposing army is still on the attack, but you’ve run out of fort.

4. Your kid’s friend has been over so long, you just scheduled her well visit at the pediatrician’s office for Tuesday.

5. You and the dog are hiding in the basement.

6. One kid keeps asking for his goody bag.

7. Every time the doorbell on the dollhouse rings, you jump up to answer the front door, shouting, “Your mom’s here!”

You can read the entire article “The Playdate Survival Guide For Moms ” here.

Sometimes when we are going through difficult things, it’s easy to focus on them and forget all the many blessings we have.  As I was driving and listening to The Monique Show, Wednesday afternoon, she and her co-hosts were discussing this issue.  Listeners were encouraged to call in with something in their lives that wasn’t good and compare it against something that could be worse.

For example, one lady called in and said she and her colleagues were having to work fifty-six or more hours a week because the company was trying to keep from hiring other people.  While her colleagues were complaining about this, the lady said she was thankful to even have a job in this economy.  With all the people she knew that had been laid off from work, she knew it could be worse.

You may be one of those who lost your job, but you have good health and loving parents who don’t mind helping you through right now.  That’s a blessing.  It could be worse.  Your house may have been foreclosed on, but you were able to find a less costly alternative, such as an apartment, to provide shelter for your two children who are straight “A” students.  That’s a blessing.  It could be worse.

I have a tendency to look at the glass as half empty, so I make a deliberate effort to focus on the positive things in life… starting first thing in the morning because that’s when I’m most ugly-acting I’m not really a morning person.  Being positive doesn’t make me complacent, because I still address whatever needs to be corrected.  Being positive and focusing on what’s most important helps me to be truly joyful.

If you’re going through a rough time, I encourage you to remember that you don’t have it as bad as you think you do.  There’s someone right now who would LOVE to trade places with you.  There is something you can be grateful for.  Whatever you’re going through, be thankful that it is not worse.  If you’re having trouble thinking of something to be grateful for or a situation that could be worse than yours…

Situations That May Be Worse:

1.  Monica lost all four of her limbs as a result on an infection, but she never forgot what was most important to her–family.  The flesh-eating bacteria did not destroy her life.  She was determined to get back home to her two daughters and loving husband.  Click on the link to read her inspirational story told on “The Oprah Winfrey Show”.

2.  Yvette has had nearly twenty surgeries and nonstop physical and emotional pain and scarring as a result of an abusive husband’s attack by setting her on fire.  Despite everything, she maintains a positive attitude and strives hard to be a positive role model for her daughter and other survivors of domestic abuse.  You can also read her story featured on “The Oprah Winfrey Show” by clicking on the link.

3.  Lastly, the Octo Mom, Nadya Suleman.  She needs no introduction.  I’m sure everyone is familiar with her controversial story.  She gave birth to octuplets after already having six children.  She now has fourteen children under the age of seven.  Despite what one may think of her choices in life, I think it’s safe to say–we wouldn’t want to trade places with her.  I mean, I get frustrated with one very sweet, independent, beautiful, and brilliant sixteen-month-old daughter.  I CAN’T IMAGINE HAVING THIRTEEN MORE!  And, I have an involved husband.  So, yes.  On those days when Dasha is particularly demanding… it could be worse.  Click here to view a video of this octuplet rarity.

Furthermore, I thought I was huge during pregnancy…

Now, do you really have it that bad???

  I don’t know why I hadn’t added a category for movies yet.  I’ve written about several movies so far… and since I LOVE movies, I’m very likely to continue writing about them in the future.  So–better late than never.  This will be the first movie in my new “Family Movies” category.

If you like love stories, I recommend checking out “Nights in Rodanthe” (2008), starring Diane Lane and Richard Gere.  If I’m not mistaken, this is the third time these two have paired up on the big screen for some onscreen chemistry.  They were together in “The Cotton Club” (1984) and “Unfaithful” (2002).  Hollywood loves to put the same couples together, doesn’t it?–Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks… Angela Bassett and Lawrence Fishburne… uh… I digress…

Where was I?

Oh, yes.  “Nights in Rodanthe“.  It’s PG-13 and runs for 1 hour, 37 minutes.  It is a sweet, yet bitter tale of two brokenhearted people who meet at an inn in North Carolina (my home state).  They both learn how to pick themselves up after traumatic events and even find love again. This movie is about being inspired by love and having the “courage to be better than you are, not less”.  There is a subplot that parents with teenagers can probably relate to.  The movie does a good job at showing that even though dealing with these young adults may be challenging, they are still human and capable of receiving and giving love.  Surprising, isn’t it?

I honestly can’t give it 5/5 stars, although I’m not certain why.  Maybe it was the ending.  Maybe it was the speed with which they found themselves in love.  The hurricane just didn’t provide enough tension for them to get closer to me.  In fact, that part of the movie almost seemed forced.  I actually preferred the couple in “Unfaithful”, BUT that is NOT recommended as a “family” movie (RATED R).

Even with these bumps along the way, I think you’ll enjoy it.  I give it four (4) solid stars.  Curl up with your loved one… or your teenager and watch.  As with any good love story, you will probably need some tissues as you watch this one.

My father-in-law sent us the Your Baby Can Read system.  It’s an early language development system for children ages three (3) months to five (5) years old.  Dr. Robert Titzer, a teacher and infant development researcher for over fifteen (15) years, is the mastermind behind this system.  If you’re interested in helping your children learn to read, you should check this out.

The system is designed to:

1.  Increase communication skills

2.  Enhance learning ability

3.  Build confidence

4.  Ensure future success

The system is equipped with the following tools:

1.  5 DVDs

2.  50 Word game cards

3.  82 Double-sided word cards

4.  5 Lift-a-flap books

5.  A “How To” Parent’s Guide book

6.  1 Window book

7.  1 Workshop DVD

8.  1 Music CD

My sixteen-month-old (16 mos) daughter and I watch the introductory video twice daily and go through a set of sliding word cards while she practices potty-time (which has also been very successful).  I’ll let you know our progress after following the system for thirty days straight.  I’ll probably post a youtube video at the end of this trial period to show you how it works.  So far, it’s pretty awesome!

If this all seems a bit outlandish, click on this link to learn more about how the system works.

While the trial period is discounted, the actual package is a little over $200, but certainly worth the investment if the goals are reached.   Thanks, Daddyo.

Last week, I posted the first part of my interview from my Rocket Scientist friend, Stephanie.  Since each question required a detailed answer, I only posted 2/5 questions and answers then.  I will spend a little time on question #3 here.  Please leave your answer to the question in the comment section, if you are so inclined.

Interview for Davida, Question #3:

“In marriage, what do you think builds a better relationship, the differences that keep you from losing your individuality, the similarities that you use to build your relationship together from or a healthy balance of both. Why?”

This is an easy one.  I think a healthy balance of both is what builds a better relationship.  I think this is true of most, if not all, marriages. I’ll use examples from mine in this answer. 

 The differences between us are what make us complement each other.  For example, two Type A personalities (me) would surely clash.  It would also be a terrible mix to have both partners bad a little shaky at managing money (him).  He’s a friendlier person, so he gets the family plenty of invites to events.  I, on the other hand, know all about etiquette, so I make sure the “Thank You’s” are sent in a timely manner. 

 The similarities are probably what makes our time spent together most enjoyable.  It’s great that we both love to watch movies.  We can quote a line from a movie all day and not worry about the other not getting it.  Both of us graduating from the same law school and working together occasionally give us something in common to talk about (like that dreadful bar experience).  I know exactly what he’s talking about when he throws around legalese or tells me about some case one of his fellow professors is working on.

 I think individuality is important because we were separate people when we met.  We were attracted to the other’s individuality.  Now that we are “one”, it’s important to be the same individuals that we found so attractive in the beginning, AND it’s important to balance being the new “person” we are together.  I think the key word in your question, which is the answer to most things, is BALANCE.

 Thanks for the question, Stephanie.

 As a reader, which do you think builds a better relationship?

I’ve seen other bloggers participate in Random Tuesday and it seemed fun.  This will be my first attempt.  I believe the UnMom gets credit for starting this phenomenon.  So here goes…

1.  I particularly look forward to “American Idol“, which happens to be on tonight.  What I’m really irritated about this season is that fourth judge, Kara DioGuardi.  I mean, what’s the point?  Now, we have two women to ignore.  Just kidding… sort of.  At least Paula is tolerably sweet and we’ve grown used to her.  I have yet to see how this second woman adds anything of value to the show.  She repeats what either Randy or Simon says and that’s just wasting time.

As far as the contestants go, David Cook, from last season, set the bar.  He tore  “Billie Jean” up!  Who can fill his shoes?  So far, it looks as if another man is going to win.  I admire all the performers who have the guts to get on that stage and display their talent to the world and withstand the criticism.

2.  My usually independent daughter was extremely clingy today.  All day.  It was annoying.  I LOVE spending time with her.  After all, she’s the reason I work from home.  Today, however, she wasn’t pleased unless I was holding her… and she’s heavy.  I couldn’t take one more minute so I put her to bed fifteen minutes early.  I hope tomorrow’s better for both of us.

3.  My neighbor’s dogs won’t stop barking.  Urgh!

4.  My husband and I are ready to have another baby.  Since I’ll be thirty-five this year and had a pretty miserable pregnancy the last go-round, I’m seeing my gyno tomorrow for a well woman/ preconception check-up.  I didn’t have any medical problems, just every other preggo symptom you can imagine.  I’m just now starting to feel like myself again (at 15-mos post-partum).  I haven’t completely gotten back to my pre-preggo weight, but I’ve lost a lot and am exercising regularly.  I’m pretty nervous about going through it all again, but hope and pray the next time will be different.

5.  I, or my husband, drop 300 Entrecards daily.  While I enjoy visiting other sites, it’s the “work” part of maintaining this blog.  The things we must do to get traffic… Anywho, I’m starting to wonder just how serious being a “drop master” is.  I very competitively like to keep my Entrecard rank high, but I’ve noticed that I have yet to receive 300 drops back in a day.  I’ve only occasionally reached over 300 visits total and that’s along with visits generated from my Entrecard adverts showing and my non-blogger friends.

I was thinking of asking for 300 people to commit to return drops and we kind of help each other with the daily-drop thing.  Then, I thought–well, that’s ridiculous.  I should be focusing on the content of my blog.  If it’s good, people will come… I guess.  Maybe I’m getting too wrapped up in drops.

So, this is what’s on my mind today.  What are your random thoughts?

One of the sweetest Valentine’s Day surprises I saw was on Friday’s re-airing of Oprah (ya’ll know by now I love Oprah’s show).  The part I liked most was when Patti LaBelle surprised a fan with a duet of “If Only You Knew”.  The song is beautiful, Patti is beautiful, the fan (Win) and his wife (Vickie) are a beautiful couple, and their chosen way to express love for each other for Valentine’s Day was beautiful.

Enjoy this video:

Vickie told Win he would be singing for her on The Oprah Show in front of millions of people–that was his Valentine’s Day gift to Vickie.  What he didn’t know was since Vickie knew how much he loved Patti, she had Oprah arrange a surprise visit from Patti.  So, not only was Win singing Patti’s song to his wife on Oprah, but he got to do it with his favorite singer, Patti LaBelle, herself–that was his wife’s gift to him.   How romantic of them both.

Patti LaBelle is such a timeless, classy beauty.  She has been serenading us since the 70s and shows no signs of falling off.  After she sang on Oprah, she discussed the loss of her own Valentine.  She endearingly referred to him as “dancing in heaven” in lieu of being dead.  She was even sweet enough to invite Win and Vickie to lunch with her.  That was another great surprise for the couple.

I encourage you to surprise the one you love (spouse, significant other, child, or friend)  with a sweet surprise.  You don’t have to wait until next February 14th.  Show love and appreciation as often as you can.

I feel that everyday should be a celebration of love, not just February 14th.  Nevertheless… HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!

If you are cuddling up with your honey and enjoying some quality time, you may also be interested in watching a sappy love story together.  Yes, I am a sucker for a good love story, which means I have some favorites.  These are the movies that made it to my top 5 “Greatest Love Story” list:

1.  “The Notebook” (2004):

2.  “An Officer and a Gentleman” (1982):

3.  “City of Angels” (1998):

4.  “Love & Basketball” (2000):

5.  “Ghost” (1990):

So, what makes a great love story anyway?  Of course, it depends on the person, but to me:  undying devotion, passion, sacrifice, timelessness, mental connection, emotional intimacy, and physical chemistry, are components of a great love story.  A good love story also makes you appreciate the ones you love and those who love you.  I believe the list above embodies and encapsulates the spirit of romantic l-o-v-e.

Take the weekend to enjoy one or ALL of these movies.  They really are timeless and beautiful.  Be sure to keep a box of tissues nearby… don’t say I didn’t warn you.