The Time of Year When I Lose my Mind

For some reason, taking down the Christmas tree turns me into a crazy lady every year.  It might be the pile of pine needles (fake) on the floor or the fact that I use Christmas decorations as an excuse to be lazy with housework.  Is there anyone who cleans under the tree skirt or moves decorations to dust?  I didn't think so.  Anyway, once we I start taking down the decorations, I go into a cleaning frenzy.  That's why I've spent the last two days cleaning baseboards, ceiling fans, THE OVEN (won't lie - that bit it), cleaning out closets, dressers, the pantry - I thought about cleaning the dog.  He killed a rat in the backyard, though, so I'm not touching him for at least a year. 

I thought I was close to being done because all I had left were the kids' bedrooms and the playroom.  Then I went in Will's room.  Will has been collecting rocks, tiny bits of mechanical pencil lead and children's menus from restaurants.  No lie on the last one - I found menus from PF Chang's and Chili's in his night stand (the kind kids color, he's not swiping them).  STILL - I'm not sure he's genetically my child because I throw away anything that is still for too long.  Kevin took Will to shoot baskets and I started cramming things in trash bags.  I had filled two bags when I found this note folded under a pirate ship.

Once again, I'm struggling with the sideways photo thing.  The note says, "How to make a big fart.  First, eat a bunch of beans."  The note was covered in tape.  Either it had been ripped and he had to put it back together, or he was trying to laminate it so that future generations could benefit from his wisdom.  I hope his language teacher doesn't read my blog.


In the playroom, Emma and I decided to organize all the American Girl clothes.

We had our work cut out for us.  And this was only a small part of the playroom.  I'm not showing you what's on the other side of the chair because you might scream and fall on the floor.

Fortunately, Emma and I did not have to deal with the huge task alone.  The boys were a huge help.  And by huge help, I mean they played Madden NFL for three hours.

But, my house is clean!  I need everyone to get out so it stays that way.