tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59790837865550148762011-11-27T18:24:59.034-06:00Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.comBlogger2221100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-49600687262642447462010-04-16T16:06:00.003-05:002010-04-16T16:09:40.373-05:00

The FaceBook group Southeast Texas Moms will have a group meeting Wednesday, April 28 at Barnes & Nobel in Beaumont. From 10 a.m. until noon, the group will gather at the Dowlen Road store for story time. All Southeast Texas moms and kiddos are welcome to attend.

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-79441499964878282702010-04-16T13:30:00.003-05:002010-04-16T13:45:21.281-05:00

The fine folks at Rockin' A Cafe in Beaumont will host on Saturday a Mud Bug Benefit for Nederland tot Mackenzie Patterson. Patterson, daughter of Jeff Patterson and Stephanie DeRouen Patterson, is 6-years-old and (when not home-bound) attends Langham Elementary in Nederland.Patterson was diagnosed with leukemia last June. Proceeds from the event will benefit her family and help fund her

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-39257354551280408302010-04-16T09:16:00.003-05:002010-04-16T09:45:21.757-05:00

I am not a morning person.I have a personal rule not to talk before 10 a.m. when possible. In the first few minutes after I wake up, I'm disoriented and only make sense with half the things I say. I'm liable to randomly start talking crazy things, like sail boats and caterpillars. The next hour or so is spent sleepy and bitter at having to wake up, causing most things I say to be a little

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-20578434839400308082010-04-15T18:20:00.003-05:002010-04-15T18:26:16.038-05:00

When Colby a little over one year old, I would get a little sad when I'd tell him - like I do a dozen times a day - that I loved him, but he couldn't tell me back. Of course, he was barely walking, so it was silly of me to expect him to talk. But I always wished for the day when he would start verbally telling me that he loved me, too. (In hindsight, I probably shouldn't have wished so hard for

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-68372412429430916802010-04-15T09:10:00.007-05:002010-04-15T09:58:51.918-05:00

With four kids, a husband, a home-life and a full-time job, I haven't had a lot of time to make and maintain great friendships. But I've been fortunate to keep one great friend for 14 years.Cassie and I were 15 when we met at a bowling alley in Mid-County. Brought there by a mutual friend, our quirky personalities clicked immediately. It wasn't long before we became inseparable. We drove to and

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-8561704003472645222010-04-14T11:00:00.000-05:002010-04-14T11:00:05.843-05:00

When describing how terrible my cooking skills are, I often say, "I could burn a salad." And sadly, I'm not kidding.If you're culinary-challenged like me, every little bit helps when it comes to planning a decent (and edible) meal for your family.Fear not, I've found the answer.Recipes.You can thank me later. =)

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-348914033972970572010-04-14T09:27:00.001-05:002010-04-14T09:28:37.573-05:00

Riley - or Ri Ri, as he calls himself - has been making up his own knock-knock jokes...

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-47132185550559615082010-04-13T16:13:00.002-05:002010-04-13T16:27:45.761-05:00

Larry and Brittany had a father-daughter trip to the dentist today, and I got the news I'd been fearing -- Brittany has a cavity. Two, in fact.We've been concerned about her teeth the past couple of months, as she's been sporadically complaining about a toothache. Unfortunately, her mouth is so tiny that she'd need a flip-top head to actually see past her first four teeth.So we entrusted the

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-21977196295215401102010-04-13T13:47:00.003-05:002010-04-13T13:54:18.650-05:00

The Art Museum of Southeast Texas wants you and your family to get buried in family fun at the "Playing in the Sand" Family Arts Day.Having heard about these occasionally AMSET family days, my husband and I decided to try one out in October and went to "Dinosaur Day." And honestly, we had a blast. There was so much for the kids to get their hands into and fun projects to make. I highly recommend

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-82381047154424470802010-04-12T09:55:00.005-05:002010-04-12T10:37:01.686-05:00

I have a friend who, turns out, is a mastermind when it comes to saving money. With two kids in school and a six-month-old baby, she set out on a mission to save a few dollars when she decided to become a stay-at-home mom.And after following her progress with coupons and deals, I've got to say, I'm impressed! Just yesterday she checked out at CVS with about $30 worth of merchandise, and ended up

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-78278074836669314472010-04-09T15:57:00.004-05:002010-04-09T17:13:14.498-05:00

They say being a parent is the hardest job in the world.I disagree. The hardest job in the world is being a step-parent.I entered my first marriage in 2006 with a man who was entering his second. He brought to our life two children who would later come to live with us as we created children of our own. My husband's ex-wife also remarried. And within a matter of years, we became a blended family

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-11191736986010177592010-04-07T15:16:00.000-05:002010-04-07T15:16:00.365-05:00

We recently had several of Bryce and Brittany's friends over for the weekend. Probably one of the most interesting ventures I've ever hosted.Below you will see what happens when you make a bet with a group of girls and lose. The payoff is never going to be very masculine.But, of course, what's good for the goose...

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-30023600414618338222010-04-07T10:34:00.002-05:002010-04-07T11:28:21.470-05:00

It's finally happened.After 10 wonderful Christmases and Easters and about a dozen lost teeth, I have a non-believer. My first of four to finally realize that he's been living with Santa, the Easter Bunny and the Tooth Fairy all along.And I appear to be the first parent to be relieved by this discovery.I'm all about the magic of Christmas. I remember what it was like to be a little girl and

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-45571165349627004282010-04-06T08:00:00.007-05:002010-04-06T17:01:05.759-05:00

There's nothing quite like living in a house full of men.I can overlook the empty toilet paper roll, and I've learned to always make sure the seat is down. I have found a way to ignore the disgusting jokes and belching contests. And I've given up on trying to separate Man from Xbox.But a few days ago I walked outside the front door and found my four-year-old urinating on a tree. A perfectly good

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-53512664284492144162010-04-05T22:21:00.008-05:002010-04-06T15:16:45.170-05:00

Like every American girl, my child is obsessed with Justin Bieber.The Bieber has taken over our MP3 players, our computer playlists, our daughter... She goes to bed listening to him, and wakes up to start it all over again. She's been bitten by the love bug. She don't need no stinkin' lyrics...

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-26361417495407396832010-04-05T22:01:00.004-05:002010-04-06T15:17:12.501-05:00

It seems the past month or so, I've been a bit lax on updating this blog.While excuses are not reasons, I recently took on a new job and new house - in the same week. Actually, let me rephrase myself. I took on a new position at The Enterprise, transitioning from Web Editor to Features Editor.And I'm more than happy to say that, with my sanity intact, both the house and job are going great.So

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-7673621570601141902010-03-18T20:40:00.005-05:002010-04-06T15:17:22.273-05:00

Is it just me, or does it seem like the time change has actually shaved about 2 hours off of every day? I could swear mine only have 22 hours now.

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-71985492420615635572010-03-09T08:57:00.011-06:002010-04-06T15:03:59.981-05:00

Friday, I’ll turn 29, and it’s bothering me. I’ll have one year left as a “young adult,” before I’m forced to realize I’m aging. One more year to be a “young mother,” before I become a mom.I’m sure there are a few of you who rolled your eyes when you read that. But no matter how young 29 seems, I promise it feels a lot different to someone with four kids, gray hair and a mini-van.I’ve spent a lot

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-69400098373808649922010-02-09T11:38:00.005-06:002010-02-09T11:42:28.537-06:00

There occasionally are times when I wonder if the entire universe is against me.My husband and I moved our family to a new house this last weekend. After spending years trying to fit six people in a very tiny house, we finally have a home large enough for everyone to live comfortably. But the two-day moving adventure was filled with more disaster than joy.Our issues started rolling out before our

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-26224581023621077062010-02-08T13:04:00.004-06:002010-02-08T13:58:11.637-06:00

Oh hell nah.Word is a young actress from Disney's Hannah Montana movie has come under fire for launching a clothing line considered racy for young girls."Ooh! La La Couture," as it is called, was designed in part by 8-year-old Emily Grace Reaves. Some people have said it looks a little like lingerie. I say my child wouldn't be caught outside the house with one foot in that outfit.I expect at

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-46277212520255833322010-01-20T21:52:00.006-06:002010-01-20T22:19:03.170-06:00

My youngest child, our last baby, is starting to communicate in full sentences.I'm filled with mixed emotions. I'm happy that he's learning so many new words, and that he can express to me what he's feeling. I'm sad because my tiny baby boy is growing so quickly and will turn 3 in July. I'm confused, because to learn new words he must be hearing them, yet he never seems to hear a single thing I

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-52948704571662253432010-01-20T21:16:00.003-06:002010-01-21T08:45:35.308-06:00

I was born an obsessive worrier. Give me a small problem, and I'll turn it around and hand you back a catastrophe in no time. I have a knack for finding the "what if" in every situation. My husband calls me a pessimist. I like to think of myself as a realist. I like to see that the glass is half full, and I can understand why it also looks half empty. But realistically, I've got a glass with

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-57135012688428142192010-01-19T09:12:00.002-06:002010-01-19T09:15:21.107-06:00

My school-age children have homework almost every night, much like your kids.So, I wasn’t surprised last week when my second-grader pulled an 80-plus page workbook from her backpack. The task, she said, was to complete two pages a night every night. The workbook, I noticed, had the words “Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills” written across it.My second-grader is studying for the TAKS test? A

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-66530535401095715012010-01-15T14:09:00.005-06:002010-01-15T14:30:10.562-06:00

A story on the front page of today's Beaumont Enterprise brought to light one local high school that has taken a new approach to curbing the bad behavior of students. In the Nederland school district, citations are now being given for those who break the rules, and kids as young as 11 are being ticketed for things like fighting and cussing.A Mom Spot reader has asked that I comment on this story,

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-6695288653995072632010-01-12T09:02:00.002-06:002010-01-12T09:04:31.025-06:00

When meteorologists last week started spreading the news of a freeze, we began taking precautions.At the start of every school year, I buy a set of gloves and a hat for each of my four kids in the event of harsh winter weather. Rarely do our winters turn bitter, and the gloves and hats usually are left to collect dust in a drawer. But, of course, anytime the weather calls for protective clothing,

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-58258974598977169282010-01-01T10:26:00.002-06:002010-01-01T10:28:22.078-06:00

And so we said goodbye to a decade. The next time a decade ends, I'll have a 19-year-old, a 17-year-old, a 14-year-old, and a 12-year old. And I'll be 38.But it won't matter, because the older two will be old enough to watch the younger two, and I'll be out of town on a great vacation.C'mon, 2020!

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-62969463763604420272009-12-31T22:48:00.004-06:002009-12-31T22:55:30.742-06:00

I'm going to step right out there and say something most of you are all thinking: 2009 sort of sucked.In one hour, it will all be behind us. A new year. A new decade. A new beginning. And personally, I can't wait.So lift your wine glasses (or, if you're at home with kiddos like we are, your sippy cups and Diet Coke cans) and let us toast to the great year ahead of us. This one is going to be good

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-36968493492448029282009-12-29T08:57:00.003-06:002009-12-29T09:00:41.556-06:00

I rarely write about my husband.While he’s an integral member of my family, my ramblings often consist of an embarrassing moment for me or one of our children.I’ve agreed to leave Larry out as much as possible to avoid any humiliation on his part, and also because I don’t like sleeping on the couch.But, Larry warrants my full attention this week.Like most journalists, I decided at a young age to

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-2759638093401796792009-12-21T06:00:00.001-06:002009-12-21T06:00:07.132-06:00

There was a time in my life when a queen-size bed was the perfect size.I think that time has passed.One of the questions I hear so often is, "How do you do it?" Those with one or two kids, or a couple of high-maintenance pets, often seem to think I have some sort of super power that allows me to work, take care of kids, make the parent-teacher conference, cook dinner, wash clothes, and still

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-79080487437346150652009-12-18T12:00:00.001-06:002009-12-18T13:28:21.825-06:00

Every year at Christmas time, my school-age children enjoy bringing a little present to their teachers. As the people they spend a third of their day with, they think of their educators more as parents than instructors.But this year I sent my child to school with a special gift for a special member of the school faculty. She is not a teacher, doesn't have a classroom, but her job is integral to

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-47640884556548004922009-12-18T08:00:00.003-06:002009-12-18T09:10:42.283-06:00

Big thanks to Aunt Cathy, who sent over these great family-friendly recipes for kid favorites, like bath paint and sidewalk chalk.Finger Paints1 cup cornstarch3 Tbs. Sugar2 cups cold waterSeveral drops of food coloring1 drop dish detergentPlastic cupsMix sugar with cornstarch in a saucepan. Add water and mix. Cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, until the mixture starts to boil and thicken. Take

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-69016302887189667392009-12-17T08:00:00.002-06:002009-12-17T08:00:01.802-06:00

Children really do say some of the funniest things. My kids are no exception...COLBY: What is college?ME: College is a school that teaches you how to get a good job.COLBY: Am I going to go to college?ME: Absolutely! Do you know what you want to be when you grow up?COLBY: Yes. A Power Ranger.ME (to 2-year-old Riley): Will you sing me your A-B-C's?RILEY (singing): Aaaayyy....Beeee...Ceeee...Deeeee.

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-27463477723526055952009-12-16T15:27:00.002-06:002009-12-16T15:37:39.563-06:00

Child Protective Services is in need of donations to help provide Christmas gifts to foster children. With 15 more cases this week alone, CPS is in need of items specifically for teenagers and babies, said a CPS official. Gift items for teens would include CDs, movies, perfume, jewelry, purses, and other items often wanted by young adults. For babies, gift items would include toys and clothing.

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-37802365535259529522009-12-16T08:21:00.000-06:002009-12-16T08:21:00.192-06:00

I always thought when I became a mother, I would teach my children everything there was to know. They'd be valedictorians. They'd be brilliant. I'd be proud.But instead, it seems parenting has made me rather dumb.There was once a time when I read classic pieces of American literature. I'd spend hours absorbing Shakespeares sonnets, or studying the life of great political figures. Yesterday, I

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-56620706648583250232009-12-15T18:49:00.004-06:002009-12-15T18:57:18.342-06:00

My daughter made me a card today in school. Not a theme-specific card, but one "just because." And we all know those are the best.When I opened the construction-paper card, detailed with color markers, it said" "I love you Mom. I will still love you when you die." Following that was a smiley face.When I read those words, I laughed so hard, I nearly cried. She, on the other hand, was embarrassed

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-87806779420259053972009-12-15T08:00:00.002-06:002009-12-15T08:00:03.514-06:00

Yipes! It’s already time for Christmas vacation!Each December, my children and I watch the calendar, counting the days until school releases for winter break. Like a shorter version of summer vacation, the kids look forward to two weeks with no homework, no school and a little extension to their early bedtimes.I, however, start to panic as I realize my holiday hustle and bustle will be wrapped

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-27705336659556072952009-12-14T16:01:00.005-06:002009-12-14T16:08:06.678-06:00

There will be a link and drink sale benefiting Grayson Chadney - son of Beaumont Police Officer Josh Chadney and wife Amanda - tomorrow from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Beaumont Police Department.You can pre-order or request deliveries of 10 or more orders by faxing your order to 409-880-3835.Orders include link sandwich, chips and soda for $5.Grayson is the son of B.P.D. Officer Josh Chadney and

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-37483623585477913252009-12-07T06:59:00.004-06:002009-12-07T07:23:44.465-06:00

As most mothers will tell you, being a parent is the most rewarding, yet sometimes most thankless job. Kids aren't wired with appreciation, and rarely see the simple things as something to be thankful for. They usually don't shower you with thanks for paying the utilities so they have lights and running water, or the car note so they don't have to walk two miles to school every morning. Instead,

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-66953864941125635952009-12-01T11:14:00.002-06:002009-12-01T11:35:41.367-06:00

Yesterday's blog (today's Beaumont Enterprise column) highlighted just a fraction of the online specials available through the month. Here are some more specials available online only. When shopping, these retailers have a "promotional code" or "coupon code" box available during checkout. Add these codes to your order and stock your "buggy" while you keep hold of some dough. (I have not

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-13492820694284605262009-11-30T10:29:00.002-06:002009-11-30T10:31:19.974-06:00

I have developed an online shopping addiction.As Christmas time creeps (or sprints, actually) near, I’ve started the mass amount of holiday shopping necessary when you’re helping Santa tailor his goodies to four children.In years past, I’ve sworn to start in August, forgotten until November, and finally put my foot in a store about two weeks before Christmas day. Realizing we’ve been missing out

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-22337276429183281352009-11-24T12:09:00.003-06:002009-11-24T12:12:47.473-06:00

For more than a year, I’ve often relied on the readers of this blog to help me through various situations, open my eyes to opposite views, or just identify with the ups and downs that come with parenting.When I wrote about potty training, one reader gave me a tip that helped make my toddler successful in his efforts. And two weeks ago, when I publicized my hunt for the elusive Zhu Zhu Pet, a

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-56127823046145795922009-11-18T09:08:00.004-06:002009-11-18T09:56:31.706-06:00

I've never been a big believer in Black Friday. In my opinion, the stress and elevated blood pressure associated with early mornings and crowded stores wasn't worth the little bit of money saved. I have family members who have told stories of standing outside Best Buy at 3 a.m. waiting on the doors to open two hours later. I thought they were crazy when I heard that and still do, a little).But

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-41072754841281237092009-11-16T09:23:00.003-06:002009-11-16T10:15:16.856-06:00

As a family on a budget, we rely on local parks and playgrounds to provide our children with entertainment. We live in walking distance of Port Neches Riverfront Park, and often spend our Saturdays picnicking at Tugboat Island, or roaming the playground near the city library. Our summers are spent "poolside" at one of Mid-County's two great spray parks. And often we travel to Doornbos Park in

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-10223979220455200062009-11-04T13:08:00.004-06:002009-11-04T13:57:18.473-06:00

Every year, there's at least one have-to-have-it toy that sends shoppers nationwide in a frenzy for finding. And nearly every year, one of my children want that toy.One month and three weeks before Christmas, I'm having anxiety attacks over fake hamsters. Zhu Zhu Pets, they're called. Tiny little toy hamsters that act like real hamsters, but without the bites, smell and cleanup. They even have

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-87180601552014568642009-10-29T22:25:00.004-05:002009-11-02T09:15:49.669-06:00

My youngest child has what I like to call "second child syndrome."It's actually a condition that affected me, not him, and resulted from my own laziness/tiredness/loss of memory (any of those words are interchangeable there).Essentially, what "second child syndrome" means, is when he is older and opens his baby book, there's not going to be anything in it but dust and empty lines. And when he

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-49232271894210830942009-10-26T07:53:00.004-05:002009-10-26T08:22:45.985-05:00

As a relatively newly developed family, we haven't had the opportunity to create many traditions. But as a family-oriented couple, my husband and I are always searching for a new activity to make an annual event.We have, however, incorporated one tradition into every fall for four years. And when October comes around, we're all looking for the perfect day to pick and paint pumpkins.Our annual

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-84838146685814418372009-10-16T08:00:00.000-05:002009-10-16T08:00:11.156-05:00

Creepy CupcakesIngredients: * 1 package (18-1/4 ounces) devil's food cake mix * 1/4 cup butter, softened * 1 package (3 ounces) cream cheese, softened * 3 cups confectioners' sugar * 2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon milk, divided * 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract * Red and yellow liquid food coloring or orange paste food coloring * 1 tablespoon baking cocoa * Round pastry tip #3 * 9 chocolate

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-87757493920088300762009-10-15T10:06:00.004-05:002009-10-15T10:43:18.365-05:00

Parents, breathe a sigh of relief. Super Nanny is coming to help tame your wild things.According to the Beaumont Enterprise and the casting team for ABC's "Super Nanny," Jo Frost is interested in lending a helping hand to Beaumont-area families. Interested families can nominate themselves - and even other families - by emailing producer Johnny Beechler at cast4shows@yahoo.com. (And, yes, the "

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-20307899274490601172009-10-14T21:57:00.004-05:002009-10-14T22:27:26.657-05:00

Almost every mother has something they promised themselves they'd never do. For me, it was embarrassment. In elementary school, I swore to myself I would never embarrass my children in front of their friends. But apparently some promises are hard to keep.When I was in grade school, our car was a 1970's model Oldsmobile with four doors and an AM radio. But there was a faulty wire in the radio,

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-42039066453455435292009-10-12T19:38:00.003-05:002009-10-12T19:44:22.375-05:00

As a working mother, I’ve often felt my full-time job has kept me from being a good mom.I began my career long before I started a family, and decided to continue it after the birth of my first child. While my decision has been best for our family where finances are concerned, I frequently deal with regret over missing certain milestones.To compensate, I volunteer each year to participate in my

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-6680196493317211882009-10-02T14:43:00.003-05:002009-10-02T14:47:32.679-05:00

I’m from, as we Mid-County folks like to call it, a mixed family. Essentially, that means my husband and I are Nederland graduates with children that bleed purple.If there’s anything I can say about Nederland and Port Neches-Groves, they’ve got spirit, yes they do. There is a house across from our high school that’s painted purple and white. People cover their cars and clothes with buttons and

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-66842168774331968192009-10-02T13:19:00.005-05:002009-10-02T14:06:27.409-05:00

In Southeast Texas, our seasons differ from the rest of the world. We have Summer, Summer, Spring, and Summer. October, however, feels more like Fall should... if we had it. Leaves are turning and falling, the air is a bit more crisp (at times), and the wind is just right. October is my favorite month.With October, of course, comes one of my favorite "holidays." I'm a Halloween enthusiast. While

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-50805723186424020432009-09-27T23:34:00.003-05:002009-09-28T00:07:17.819-05:00

There's never a good time for kids to get sick. And there's never an easy time to see your children in pain and be limited in ways to alleviate it. But it seems when kids catch a bug, they somehow pick the most inopportune times.In my house, my kids share everything. Not their toys, of course. Just their illnesses. It's almost better than way, as we tend to go through the bout faster that way.

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-71819104967856628422009-09-23T08:55:00.004-05:002009-09-23T09:02:38.377-05:00

It seems to me as if I’ve always been a mother. It’s almost impossible for me to remember a time without children. A life without sippy cups, diaper bags and homework. But it’s been just four short years since I became a full-time mother of four. One year after my 4-year-old’s birth came the permanent addition of my two step-children, and one year after that came our youngest child. And it’s

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-50599032938325308742009-09-08T09:13:00.003-05:002009-09-08T09:17:58.946-05:00

Below is a copy of the prepared speech by President Obama, which will be given nationally to school children today. The President: Hello everyone – how’s everybody doing today? I’m here with students at Wakefield High School in Arlington, Virginia. And we’ve got students tuning in from all across America, kindergarten through twelfth grade. I’m glad you all could join us today. I know that for

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-78735598787911803762009-09-03T10:38:00.004-05:002009-09-03T10:41:04.454-05:00

Things like this are the reason my kids will put me in a nursing home first chance they get...

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-88510631113919566802009-08-20T13:36:00.004-05:002009-08-20T14:13:53.649-05:00

I cried today when I read the BeaumontEnterprise.com story about the 5-year-old boy from Jasper who was abused by his father. A softhearted person with no emotional tolerance for such things, I usually try to avoid stories like this one. But as a journalist with an active part in BeaumontEnterprise.com, sometimes it can't be avoided.There was once a time (while hard to remember) when I didn't

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-81775983160954611432009-08-10T08:16:00.012-05:002009-08-10T09:27:22.283-05:00

I've never been much of an outdoors person. I have a deep respect for nature and all its beautiful little creatures, but I've never had a real appreciation for street-melting heat and biting bugs. When it comes to staying inside with air conditioning and a book or roughing it in the wilderness with sweat and mosquitoes, I'll pick the book any day.But I tossed all that aside this past weekend and

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-83826216098789454742009-07-28T06:54:00.007-05:002009-07-28T07:10:28.840-05:00

Today, my son Colby turns 4. As a mother of three other children — ages nine, seven and two — Colby seems to get lost in middle sometimes.My oldest two children, Bryce and Brittany, are from my husband’s first marriage. I like to call the three of them the family-value pack.And while I consider Bryce and Brittany my children, Colby is my first biological child. My first pregnancy. My first

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-89247150345882119402009-07-27T13:47:00.007-05:002009-07-28T13:55:18.476-05:00

A few months into my relationship with my husband, I remember sitting at the computer in the kitchen, scanning local news sites while he fixed dinner a few feet away from me. As he stood there stirring pasta and tasting sauce, I said without blinking: "A woman cut her baby's arms off cause she thought it was possessed."Larry turned and looked at me with this horrible expression and said, "I don't

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-10547433647253060472009-07-24T05:00:00.002-05:002009-07-24T08:25:44.450-05:00

In one hand, it's hard to remember a life without my children. It seems no matter how far I think back, in the corner of my mind I always see them in whatever memory I may have.But in the other, it feels like just yesterday that they took their first little breaths in this world. Like 3 a.m. feedings and jars of baby food were only a week ago.Today my youngest turns 2. My "baby" days are over; I

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-13858396089236176952009-07-06T11:03:00.004-05:002009-07-06T11:52:18.548-05:00

Two weeks ago, we took our first family trip to the beach. Little Colby and baby Riley had never been before, and Bryce and Brittany hadn't been in years. And while the larger-than-life ocean and never-ending sand box was fascinating to my children, I found it to be one of the most miserable experiences I'd ever had. Because when it comes to water, my eyes never leave my kids.With the summer

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-88209642249747414862009-06-29T16:12:00.004-05:002009-06-29T16:26:13.294-05:00

Have you ever heard the saying, "Christmas in July"?Well, it actually was coined for me. Because that's what July in my house feels like. Christmas.On July 10, my oldest child will turn 9.On July 18, my husband will turn 32.On July 24, my youngest will be 2.And on July 28, my somewhere-in-the-middle child will be 4. Of course the biggest problem with July is money. There is none that month.

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-7004903498841481332009-06-18T16:24:00.004-05:002009-06-18T18:54:15.476-05:00

If you're driving through Port Neches early in the morning and happen to see a naked toddler dancing in a bedroom window, don't be alarmed. It's my son.Having helped three kids transition from diapers to underwear, I've come to understand that each child will begin to display their own person signs when they're ready to potty train. Bryce was in underwear when I met my husband, but still using

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-20185093141274896112009-06-10T16:14:00.003-05:002009-06-10T16:19:17.457-05:00

Some of you may recognize my friend Heather Curl as a Beaumont Enterprise guest blogger. She was diagnosed with Hodgkin's several months ago, and has been blogging about her experience ever since. Friends and family members will be hosting a fundraiser for Heather on June 27 at the Market Basket in Port Neches from 10 am. until 2 p.m.So mark your calendars and plan to be there with us!You can

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-32912122651160872602009-06-09T22:45:00.004-05:002009-06-09T22:58:40.145-05:00

I never truly understood what "terrible twos" meant before Riley.I missed Bryce's two. He was three when I met my husband. I was there for Brittany's two, but her two was more like a five. She was the brain of a six-year-old and the attitude of a sixteen-year-old in the body of a two-year-old. When Colby reached two, we had a newborn baby. No one knows if Colby was bad or not when he was two,

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-72663458317126135672009-06-05T11:17:00.003-05:002009-06-05T11:22:29.210-05:00

I apologize for my recent lack of posting.My grandmother passed away Wednesday, and I am spending my time with my family as we prepare for tomorrow's funeral.We appreciate your thoughts and prayers, and I will be back here next week.

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-57411452875699959522009-06-01T10:14:00.003-05:002009-06-01T10:41:36.328-05:00

Hurricane season has officially started, and we'll spend the next few months watching the waves to see if Rita or Ike has a wayward cousin coming this way.As a native Southeast Texan, I've become quite accustomed to hurricane season. And while the past few years have been a little overactive compared to years before, I've come to expect at least one evacuation each year.After Hurricane Humberto

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-40905722003576740272009-05-22T11:04:00.005-05:002009-05-22T16:48:36.464-05:00

As a wife and mother, I consider myself a lot of things. I'm a chef, a doctor, a maid, a psychologist, a teacher, a monster-chaser, an architect (with Legos, of course), and an accountant.What I am apparently not is a beautician.Not at all. Not even close.My almost-four-year-old (that "almost" is very important, you know) doesn't like loud noises. This includes vacuum cleaners, garbage trucks,

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-45494403375744893932009-05-15T18:00:00.000-05:002009-05-15T18:00:05.775-05:00

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-54994792323858179482009-05-15T10:06:00.009-05:002009-05-15T11:31:27.915-05:00

For years I have been a huge advocate of organ donation. I think I tell my husband and mother at least once a week (in the most random conversations), "Please, please remember to donate my organs if something happens to me!"And if you read this story, you'll know why.Here's what you may not know:Years ago, a person's wish to or not to donate organs was specified on their driver's license. In

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-42935872368547435932009-05-11T16:20:00.002-05:002009-05-11T16:22:01.487-05:00

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-53304269642972376252009-05-11T10:26:00.006-05:002009-05-11T11:12:26.029-05:00

There are three things every woman should know how to do:1. Change a tire2. Change the oil in a vehicle3. Mow the grassI can do the first without a problem. I learned the second, but haven't practiced in years, so there's a good chance I could disconnect something important if I tried today. But number three was - prior to yesterday - something I'd never done.I've watched my husband mow the grass

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-58825474781869465062009-05-08T13:02:00.005-05:002009-05-08T13:20:15.901-05:00

For the past three months, I've been waiting for - no, fearing - a question from my children. And two days ago, my 3-year old was the first to ask.Let me give you some background first...When we moved in our house a little over a year ago, it came with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a huge backyard, and a cat. The cat was a white and yellow striped stray that lived on the front porch. He was

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-35569543713666793142009-05-07T21:16:00.004-05:002009-05-07T21:55:53.836-05:00

Men are funny creatures. While most are hard to understand, they're almost always easy to call. I can predict almost every move my husband will make days before he makes them, and sometimes just from the sound of a sigh or a random thought.Men, however, apparently believe they have found and conquered woman. What happens when Christmas comes around? They have the perfect gift in mind. Once they

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-18677574865972886672009-05-06T17:36:00.001-05:002009-05-06T17:38:23.695-05:00

Congratulations to me!Click here to see whyOkay, so it's not exactly real, but I can pretend, right?

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-27945106219893239092009-05-05T15:25:00.005-05:002009-05-06T16:34:21.890-05:00

I'm an book enthusiast. That's what I call myself to avoid strange looks from my husband when I have to haul yet another box of books to the attic (If I make it sound like a popular club, he can't question my pack ratting because it clearly makes me look cool... or so I've decided).With space an issue, a third of my book collection is filling up several bookshelves in my home. I also have

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-59660029987132341732009-05-01T14:56:00.005-05:002009-05-04T09:07:18.755-05:00

Kids love making messes. And if you can find them a mess that comes in bright colors, that's even better.Recently one of my co-workers sent me some information on an Ohio couple that has found safe, alternative recipes for most of your kids' favorite toys and activities. I pulled up their Web site and scrolled through some of the recipes, and instantly agreed that all were easy to make and my

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-67640109826275257762009-04-30T15:46:00.007-05:002009-05-01T14:25:07.735-05:00

With every new confirmed case of swine flu in the U.S., my paranoia level rises. I'm a paranoiac by nature - worrying has truly become a talent of mine, especially when it comes to my children. My concern has nothing to do with myself. I could care less if I catch the pig flu or the bird flu or the Venezuelan spider monkey flu. But the thought of my children getting sick - especially from

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-78263615662984905282009-04-28T15:46:00.004-05:002009-05-01T14:25:37.217-05:00

It's time to dress the kids in bubble wrap.If there's anything my kids are really, really good at, it's getting sick. Any given week, one of them is sick with something. With four of them, they can each get sick one time a month and that's still every week we're giving Pepto, Tylenol, cough syrup, antibiotics or scheduling doctors' appointments. And what goes around comes around. Then it goes

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-15473958291948279892009-04-24T13:14:00.004-05:002009-04-24T13:58:50.181-05:00

I live in Mid-County, and it hasn't been hard to spot the signs around Nederland asking residents there to vote against the upcoming school bond election.Currently we live in Port Neches, and my children attend school there. But both my husband and myself are Nederland graduates. Of all the schools in the NISD district, only two have I not attended - Helena Park and Langham Elementary. But as a

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-2353266711080653232009-04-21T16:30:00.006-05:002009-04-24T13:00:01.502-05:00

One of the perks about working evenings is daytime television - something I'd never think to DVR and wouldn't catch otherwise. Today's TV pleasure was "Ellen." During the show she mentioned an online auction, and says using Ebay is a great way to be green.At that moment I realized why people use celebrities to endorse their products. Immediately I thought, "Well if Ellen is doing it, I should be

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-71702020057599051052009-04-16T10:37:00.003-05:002009-04-24T13:00:58.123-05:00

I was chatting with a woman in the doctor's office this week who gave birth to first child just 6-weeks before. The conversation turned to pregnancy, and she spoke the words that I have said at least three dozen times: "No one told me how hard pregnancy was going to be."Childbirth is a miracle - the most wonderful thing a person can do in their life.But let us be honest here, the road to get

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-38268407971728291382009-04-10T13:31:00.002-05:002009-04-10T13:35:08.813-05:00

Life After Baby (L.A.B.) is a new group in Southeast Texas that gives mothers of children 0-2 years old a chance to connect with other moms they can relate to. It also is a great opportunity for the children to learn important social skills and make new friends.Each meeting has a theme with a craft for each mother-child team to make as a keepsake. The group is free and members have no obligation.

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-89488668183590524312009-04-10T10:26:00.003-05:002009-04-10T10:46:26.313-05:00

Years ago, I knew someone who was a recovering alcoholic. While listening to him talk about his recovery and 12-step program, he explained how his program had taught him that God will put before you what you need to see or hear. That while God may not speak to someone directly, He will often put someone in their lives who says or does something to set them on the right track.As I've said before,

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-16646567810006804892009-04-09T08:40:00.003-05:002009-04-09T08:55:21.410-05:00

On an idea sparked by a friend, I decided to quiz my kids on how well they know me.Bryce: 8 years, 9 monthsBrittany: 7 years, 2 monthsColby: 3 years, 9 monthsRiley: 1 year, 9 months with limited vocabulary1. What's my name?Bryce: MoniqueBrittany: MoniqueColby: Moh-eekRiley: No2. How old am IBryce: 28Brittany: 27Colby: 3Riley: Mah3. Where did I go to school?Bryce: Nederland and half of Port Neches

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-24916211222277815632009-04-07T21:59:00.003-05:002009-04-07T22:35:54.660-05:00

1. No one really plans for children. There are people who intentionally have a child, but no one could ever prepare for the reality. It's sort of like having flood insurance on your home - you might be financially prepared for a hurricane, but you're going to get a helluva shock when your 30-year stamp collection floats out your window and down the Neches. Maybe it's nothing like that. Okay, so

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-61557275157464883812009-04-06T08:44:00.004-05:002009-04-06T09:28:43.031-05:00

My oldest two kids have taken to saying a filthy word lately."Summer."For them, it's the three glorious months with no school, no homework, and essentially no responsibilities. For us, it's those twelve long weeks when two more children need childcare.I've heard a lot of moms say they dread the summer months because they don't get much of a break from their children. These days, I would welcome a

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-3930039867796619672009-03-24T16:59:00.003-05:002009-03-24T17:24:24.935-05:00

I live relatively close to the high school in my town, and frequently pass by it on my way to or from one of the three-dozen places I go every day. But it wasn't until a few days ago that I really started to notice the cars parked around the building. I was passing by about the same time school let out, and I was coasting quite slowly at around 15 mph when I started seeing all these teenagers get

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-53819292954367723752009-03-23T10:04:00.003-05:002009-03-23T10:30:05.159-05:00

About six months ago, we started looking at buying a house. The acceptable reason is because we're padding someone else's pockets, and it would be nice to sink the money we pay in rent towards our own home. The real reason (for me) is because I want to paint.But along came a hurricane and then an economic crisis, and we decided to hold out for a little bit longer. Save more money. Put more down

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-58955094679844561122009-03-20T10:27:00.003-05:002009-03-20T10:41:40.354-05:00

Ladies and gentlemen, we officially have a potty-trainer.At almost 4-years old, Colby has been wearing "big boy" underwear for almost a week. And while the first and second day called for about five pair, and the third needed two; he has successfully made it three days without any accidents.Can I get a hallelujah?! We've been trying to potty train him since he was two. I've tried everything from

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-35587218245406802832009-03-13T14:38:00.007-05:002009-03-13T15:21:36.148-05:00

There seems to be a lot of stimulus money floating around lately, and Beaumont's own Democratic Rep. Joe Deshotel thinks some of it should be geared towards education. Except, it's not the schools and teachers he wants the money going to - it's the students.Deshotel recently proposed a program to pay students for their good grades. Eligible to schools with poor performance rates, students could

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-25155534574972978872009-03-12T15:55:00.005-05:002009-03-12T16:17:31.151-05:00

I have a biter.The last child in my crew of kiddies has turned out to be "that kid" at daycare, and I feel like a complete failure.A while back he started biting a little at home when he wanted attention that no one would give. He put the meaning to the term "ankle biter." If we were standing somewhere in the house and didn't pay much attention to his small self at our feet, he'd stick out his

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-46073479963353700912009-03-09T16:24:00.006-05:002009-03-10T15:14:10.141-05:00

The picture to the right - do you recognize her? Here's a hint: She's a popular character for young girls, has become a screen star, and can be found on several items in my home (books, clothes hampers, suitcases, etc.)Not Barbie.Not Hannah.It's Dora the Explorer.Since 2000, Dora and her friend Boots have dominated a good bit of Nickelodeon and Noggin networks. When I met Larry, Brittany was a

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-63562203034546311612009-03-06T13:37:00.010-06:002009-03-06T15:44:07.353-06:00

As the wife of someone who had children in a previous marriage, I've come to learn a lot about the Texas child support system over the past five years - from both giving and receiving.Since obtaining custody of his oldest two children in 2006, my husband is the court-ordered recipient of child support payments. But prior to that, he was ordered to pay. And when you become a part of that group,

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-47237931926003125952009-03-06T09:25:00.006-06:002009-03-06T09:56:25.495-06:00

Bryce is your typical 8-year old boy. He collects strange things like Pokemon cards, dreams about video games while snuggled up in his The Hulk bed sheets, and thinks Spiderman and the X-Men are real people. We watch a lot of superhero movies in my house. Actually, I think we own every one of them.Comic-based movie "The Watchmen" hits theaters this weekend, and the story today's Enterprise helped

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-31984337785389015682009-03-05T21:07:00.006-06:002009-03-06T09:25:10.899-06:00

There are many a thing a mother will do without for her children.May I advise sleep not be one of them.When it rains it floods at my house - we're usually still swimming in our issues long after they happen. As I've been saying, the past few weeks have been spent battling the flu from Hell. This limitless germ that refuses to die, even after being hit with $65 in Lysol and antibacterial cleaners

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-35264589375016463432009-02-26T17:06:00.004-06:002009-02-26T17:20:26.187-06:00

Sharing is a big thing in my house. With four kids spread over six years in age, they don't all get along. Pretty much ever.But this week they've been sharing really well, and it's about to drive me crazy. For the past six days, I've been dealing with four children all sharing one bout of the flu.When you get past the part where your child is miserable and in physical pain, sick days tend to

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-68307270322978923072009-02-18T21:44:00.004-06:002009-02-18T22:08:49.381-06:00

The bad part about putting yourself out in the open is that it brings in opinions. And, as I'm quickly learning, not everyone's opinion of me is very good.When I first started this blog (which eventually became a column in the paper), I thought to myself, "Who could not like me? I write about babies and happy things!" But, just like Newton said, everything has an opposite. Yay for me.A Letter to

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979083786555014876.post-7703551449597508622009-02-16T15:28:00.006-06:002009-02-16T15:50:07.903-06:00

I live in a house full of comedians. But sometimes, their humor comes with a great deal of embarrassment.The first time I learned this was before Colby and Riley, when Bryce and Brittany came to stay with us every other weekend (we won custody of them in 2006). I was the girlfriend with no experience on children, trying to learn to be a mom and friend to a 2 and 3 year old.We decided to take the

Monique Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03141735084411178777noreply@blogger.com0