Today is my oldest sister's birthday. She lives in Alaska, and I am terrible about sending packages. The fact that she is fantastic about sending cards and goodies, makes me feel even worse. For my last birthday she sent me a card with an older naked woman on it, with strategic areas covered by a flower pot. She said it reminded her of me...how do you top that?1. If you think it sounds like a great idea, you will probably get in trouble. However, the fun you have along the way, just might be worth it.
2. Babysitters are meant to be tortured. It is very important that you make them earn every quarter they may recieve for each hour they have to spend watching 6 incredibly horrible children.
3. Never underestimate the power of a good money making scheme. Many people are gulible and will give you money for things that should most likely find a home in their garbage can.
4. Toilet papering your own house is only a good idea if you do the front yard. If you toilet paper the back yard, your parents will somehow realize it was you.
5. Torture your younger siblings as much as possible; it will make them stronger in the future.

2. Laugh, often--it helps you feel great, even if you don't.

3. Be creative--there are a million things you can make with your hands.
4. Play with your kids--those memories are the ones they'll remember.
5. Be a fun big sister--eventually your younger siblings will look back and laugh at all the fun you had.
Happy Birthday Tam! I love you.




If you would like to see what good parents do for Valentine's, check out my sisters' blogs.
Happy Valentine's Day!
Thinks I Don't Love:
We had a gorgeous day last weekend and decided to go for a bike ride together as a family. Nikolai rode his own bike and I took Aleksi on the tag-along. We rode down to the north end and took some back roads to avoid traffic. We stopped off to see our good friends, Cynthia and Mike, enjoyed a nice stroll with them, and then headed home. All in all it ended up being about 13 miles. Jay and I felt like terrible parents, since Nikolai hasn't ridden his bike for quite a while...but he was a trooper and we had a great time.
We're hoping for some warmer weather and more chances to get out on the bikes.