Thursday, January 31, 2008

Joys of two

Not two years old...that's not what I'm blogging about today. It's having two children. I knew I always wanted to have at least two. After meeting my husband and his family (five sisters, 2 1/2 brothers), I thought I'd like to have like FIVE! ha ha Then after having K, I thought three sounded nice. But now, having K and J, two sounds great.

I have about eleventeen (!) friends who are pregnant right now! They are all on their second child...hooray for all of you! Last year at this time, I was the one pregnant with my second child. And my anxiety and fears were at an all time high. I mean, you worry when you are pg with the first. But when you are pg with your second, you worry about that baby PLUS your first and how his/her life will never be the same. Sure, in your mind, you know it will be great for them to have a little sibling, but in your heart it is hard to imagine how you can love the second as much. Nevermind how the first might NOT love the second. And the Mommy guilt starts early as to how you might be "ruining" the first's life. (I see you all nodding your heads!)

J turns four months old tomorrow. And I have to say, it's hard remembering a time without him here. It's hard imagining my house filled with just the noises of K's singing. Now I hear J...cooing, talking, giggling, and crying right along with K's singing and endless chatter. My house feels empty if one of them is not here. And honestly, K wonders where J is if she does not see him in the room. And Jack l for her in every room he is in.

The other morning, I put J in the portable swing and jumped in the shower. K was playing upstairs with us but she was in her room reading books. (I always put J's portable swing where I can see him from the shower...just in case.) He was content so I allowed myself to take a long, hot, NICE shower (as opposed to the wash as fast as you can so you can get out and make sure the kids are fed, pottied, clothed, comforted, wiped up, read to, played with, sang to, held, kissed, cleaned, etc. shower)!

When I got out of the shower, J was obviously watching K by the smile on his face and the way his eyes were twinkling. (They don't twinkle like that for anybody else) I couldn't see K. As I dried off, I peeked further out the bathroom door and found my sweet girl. She was sitting there in front of his swing with a pile of books at her left. She was reading to him. She was sharing her beloved books with her baby brother. She told him stories about Elmo, Big Bird, and Pooh. She told him about the bunny named Nicholas and how he ventures through each season. She read him her fave Mouse Mess and didn't skip a word b/c she has it memorized by heart. She read to her little brother. I tried not to disturb their moment; they were so content with each other, speaking in their own language. sniff sniff. (Seriously, I can bawl just typing about it)

So there you have it all my pg friends. Set your fears aside for just one minute. Two is wonderful. It's easy to get caught up in the worry, fear, anxiety, and dread of how having a second baby will change your first baby's life. But there are sooo many of these moments where you just KNOW their lives are soo much better now.

I gotta go get a kleenex.

Monday, January 28, 2008

House

I need help. I don't know what to do over here. We have been faced with an opportunity to buy a spectacular house (house #1), about 1.5 years before we were ready. It is a house that meets all of our "dream house" requirements (big garage, basement, trees, storage, more storage, dormer windows, hardwood floors, four bedroom (potentially), fireplace, lots of character). AND it is a house that seems underpriced. AND the realtor selling it is WILLING TO BUY OUR HOUSE (house #2) in order to get us into house #1. (He owns house #1 and needs to get rid of it ASAP and would buy our's and turn around and put it on the market. Basically, it would be easier for him to sell house #2 in the current market than house #1) If it all sounds confusing, then, well, you get it. We have been going around and around about this for a few weeks now. If we decide yes, it literally means moving in (sit down Kelly. Are you sitting down? Sit down.) ...... February. Yep. FEBRUARY. With no hassle of trying to sell house #2 for us.

Of course, the big elephant in the room is "Can we afford house #1?" The answer is well, no. I mean, yes. I mean, no. Okay, we could afford this house if we made some sacrifices. I mean, Friday night pizza night would be gone. Less Doodlebops concerts and more meals at home. Less needless running around wasting gas at $40 per fill up. I mean, the kids would get fed but we'd all have to wear our winter coats inside. LOL Just kidding. But you get the point.

This is a house we would stay in for the duration. Like, for sure until the kids were in college. Maybe even, gulp, forever. It's that nice people. (Seriously, it's not like a friggin' mansion with maid service or anything, just meets all of our requirements in a big way).

So we don't know what to do. Recession? Housing market crashing? Interest rates might increase if recession hits (we can get 5.25% right now)? Selling our current house might take 1 year if we didn't go with this opportunity? There are few houses in our price range in Bton that meet our requirements? What if something goes wrong? What if we have an emergency happen? Part of me says, "DO IT!" and part of me says, "I'm too scared. It is all happening so fast." yes. no. yes. no. yes. no.

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH! Any ideas?

Tuesday, January 22, 2008

100 things about me

This seems to be an intriguing idea that is common in many blogs. I enjoy reading them as it is a "quick and easy" way to get to know the people whose stories and secrets I read daily. I thought you might enjoy it too. (And I'm interested to see what I come up with!) Let me know if anything surprises you or if you can relate to any of it!

1. My middle name is Ann and I have never liked it. Although, I like it on other people.
2. I love driving.
3. When I am completely out of sorts, one look at my husband calms me down. (So does hearing his voice)
4. I have looked forward to being the mother of two young kids my entire life.
5. When I was in high school, I weighed less than 120 pounds. (GASP!)
6. I am not willing to tell you my weight now. Don't ever ask!
7. My favorite food is Indian.
8. My favorite alcoholic drink is a Jim Beam and Coke. I also love pina coladas if I am on vacation.
9. The ocean is my favorite place to visit.
10. I haven't been on vacation in three years. In fact, it may have been longer than that b/c I can't remember where we went!
11. I can juggle.
12. I love 80's music. And cheesy 70's love songs. (Think Europe and the Bee Gees)
13. I attended fifth grade in three different states.
14. I talk too much but can't seem to help it.
15. I loved playing make believe with my Fisher Price "people" as a little girl. Now, it is my little girl's favorite pastime.
16. I have developed an addiction to coffee. Just the thought of having a cup makes me smile.
17. I am currently reading three books...unsuccessfully.
18. I am gearing up to lose another thirty pounds.
19. I sometimes have this thought that people from my past don't remember me. Even when I see someone that I went to school with for years, I think they don't recognize me.
20. I hate missing the evening news.
21. I love how snow makes the world quieter and seem cleaner. Also, how the stars always shine brighter in the winter.
22. I feel like I haven't found my "real career" yet.
23. I always wanted a sister. I married a man with FIVE of them!
24. My favorite cookie has always been chocolate chip. But I also REALLY love molasses cookies; I just always forget about them!
25.I love the way wood fires smell.
26. When watching The Little Mermaid with my daughter, I sing all the songs at the top of my lungs.
27. I think if I had another daughter I would name her "Lila Grace" (but my husband says no we wouldn't.)
28. I have been watching General Hospital since I was five years old (don't judge!)
29. I love all books.
30. I have no baby book for my son who is almost four months old.
31. I have a baby book for my two year old daughter, but have hardly written in it.
32. I was in a serious car accident when I was in my early twenties. I had a broken jaw in two places.
33. I have always wanted to be in theater.
34. I love decorating my house (and wish I had more time/money to do it!)
35. I refuse to decorate/paint a room in my house until I "see it" in my head.
36. I am considering selling my house and moving. (That's a funny progression isn't it?)
37. I hated math while growing up. I was always in accelerated math classes, but felt so stupid. I usually set the curve for the class by having one of the lowest scores.
38. I loved drama, choir, and english in high school.
39. I loved astronomy, psychology, and sociology in college.
40. I also liked statistics which is strange since I didn't take it until grad school b/c I knew I would do badly.
41. I lived in California when I was little.
42. I also lived in Minnesota. Twice
43. And Missouri. Twice
44. And Indiana. Twice
45. And Illinois.
46. And Wisconsin.
47. I make friends easily but often keep them at a distance.
48. I like going to the movies by myself sometimes.
49. I would love to live in upstate New York.
50. I can't believe this is only number 50.
51. I love to swim, but hate being cold and wet.
52. My feet grew while pregnant with my kids. I now wear a size 9.
53. I'd love to own a bed and breakfast. Or a little eccentric shop.
54. My favorite holiday is Christmas.
55. My favorite season is fall.
56. I have always wanted to learn to play the piano.
57. I love cheese and crackers.
58. My favorite kid cereal is Fruity Pebbles
59. I'd like to learn how to ski.
60. One of my New Year's resolutions is to attend church regularly.
61. I love the color yellow.
62. I don't like eggs, unless they are deviled.
63. My favorite books as a child were the Ramona Quimby series.
64. I make a good meatloaf, excellent choc chip cookies and awesome lemon bars!
65. I love shoes and wish I had a place to wear really nice ones.
66. I love Billy Holiday and Nat King Cole
67. I'd like to dye my hair, but I don't think I'd be good at keeping it up
68. I am not a cat person. (Sorry, but I am just not)
69. My dream house has hardwood floors and at least one fireplace
70. I sleep naked. (ha ha ha! I'm kidding, but I thought that was funny to put in here!)
71. The things I like best about myself are my eyes and my smile.
72. Sometimes I give money to homeless people at busy intersections
73. I'd secretly like to be a doctor (I don't think I've ever told anyone that)
74. There is part of me that is interested in running for political office (or that)
75. I love watching Jay Leno
76. My favorite flower is the daisy
77. I've always wanted to write a children's book
78. Sometimes when I get really angry suddenly, I laugh
79. I cry easily when thinking about my kids
80. I'd love to travel to Greece, Australia, and go on safari
81. Family is VERY important to me
82. I have cousins that live in Hawaii in the winter and Alaska in the summer.
83. I should visit them!
84. My first concert was Janet Jackson's "Black Cat" tour in Indianapolis
85. The last concert I attended was "The Doodlebops" with my husband and 2 year old
86. I love bread.
87. NFL football is my favorite sport
88. I'm excited that I am nearing the end of this list
89. I love taking naps, but often wake up cranky (b/c they never last long enough!)
90. I once lived with a 20 foot boa-constrictor
91. I got married on the beach while Hurricane Isabelle was about to come ashore
92. Those little birds that people put on crafts, wreaths, and things CREEP me out.
93. My favorite ice cream is B&J Phish Food
94. I was diagnosed with MS when I was 19 and have been in remission since I was 20
95. I love the scent of my kids
96. I often dream of tornados
97. I am totally bummed that the Colts lost in the playoffs
98. One of my favorite things to do on vacation is snorkel (and nap)
99. I require a lot of down time
100. I feel pressure to make this last one exciting. So now my mind is blank!

Wednesday, January 16, 2008

Just puttin' it out there

I have to say that I am very excited about the way things are going in the country right now. It seems like we have been in a "black hole of despair" for an awfully long time. While talk of recession is rampant, and seems likely at this point, I am still very optimistic and pleased about the current political environment.

I am a democrat, although don't consider myself overly liberal. I become more conservative in my views the older I get, but still find myself in agreement with the democratic party more so than the GOP. Mostly, I like middle of the road thought...nothing too extreme in either direction.

I am THRILLED about Barack Obama and the movement he seems to be creating and carrying with so many Americans. There is something about him that is calming to me. I've been hearing/learning about him for a number of years and was delighted when he threw his hat officially in the race. I am excited by the prospect of having someone young, fresh, and optimistic in the white house.

As a woman, I am ECSTATIC that Hillary Clinton is also in the running. I feel a bit guilty that if given the choice, I'd choose Barack. But the fact that Hillary is just as likely to win as Barack means it is a NEW day!! Life changing. Country changing. World changing. It's been a loooong time coming.

That said, the reason I personally feel more confident about Barack than Hillary is because I think her "baggage" will only divide the American public and Congress further. Don't get me wrong, I think she'd be a heck of a President and try and get some shit done!!! Thank you very much! However, I think the old, bitter, closed minded, "Clinton haters" from the 90's will make it their mission to make sure she gets as little accomplished as possible. And unfortunately, some of those persons remain in the current legislature and continue having a tremendous amount of influence and power. "Politics as usual" I call it. The reason why people have been so unplugged for so many years.

Barack, on the other hand, really seems to know how to get people together. I think he is one of those people who just make others relax while in his presence. Do you know what I mean? There are those people in the world who seem to get along with everyone and manage differences in opinion so diplomatically that people can't seem to be mean to them. Barack seems that way to me. I have a great deal of respect for him, and all the candidates, honestly.

So there you have it. I am even impressed that on the Republican side there are a few candidates who really seem to focus on the momentum in the country and the need for people to get involved. We are all tired of the negative campaigning, "bought and sold" campaigns and political favors to big time lobbyists, and non-partisan negotiations. You are our leaders. Get together and hash out the details to solve some of the problems we face. Not working together b/c of political differences is a cop out. It is an excuse and is no longer acceptable.

Without trying to sound so "pc", it is time for a change. And I am proud to be talking about it. No matter your view, party affiliation, values, or religious beliefs, GET INVOLVED. Do a little research. Read up on the candidates and cast your vote. Its time the white house reflect the views of the "average" American. You can't complain about it if you aren't using your vote to speak in my opinion. And this year, the excuse of "there are no good candidates" isn't good enough. There are great candidates. Different candidates. Optimistic candidates. On BOTH sides.

Monday, January 14, 2008

A month late



and a dollar short!! Here are some Christmas pictures!

Friday, January 11, 2008

I'm just gonna say it...

LORD MY JEANS ARE TIGHT TODAY! (Insert cursing here)

Tuesday, January 8, 2008

Out of touch

Has it really been this long? I guess so. Sorry I haven't posted in awhile. I'm not real sure why I've neglected it. I really enjoy blogging and reading others' blogs. Somehow I have felt like I haven't had time to sit and read/write in recent weeks. Well, no more!

Here is our 2008 update.

Little mister is SLEEPING THROUGH THE NIGHT. Yes. He turned 3 months old on January 1st and apparently he decided he was no longer waking up to eat between 3-4 am. "OKAY!" said Mommy and Daddy. As you probably remember, he has been my sleepy boy ever since he came out of the snug confines of my belly. At this point, he sleeps from like 9:30 pm - 7/8am. Seriously. It floors me! I still wake up well rested every morning and frantically run to his room to make sure he is in there. We went to church on Sunday (the first time since April...GO US!) and I had to WAKE HIM UP in order to get him ready in time. Can you imagine? He remains a very smiley and content baby boy. So easy and laid back. Although, he still hates tummy time and we are trying to be more diligent with insisting on it despite his protests. I mean, HAAAAAATES it. He lifts his head and has pretty good trunk strength, but is nowhere near ready to lift his chest off the floor. It's our fault, but man, it's hard to make him when he hates it so much. Got any ideas on how to make him love it? or just tolerate it? Give em' to me!!!

Missy miss is also doing well. She continues napping two hours in the afternoon which keep us all sane. She has QUITE the little personality and she is often referred to as "Bossy boss." You can imagine, can't you? She continues loving the cartoon Little Bear and has also fallen in love with Ariel and The Little Mermaid. Dress up is a favorite pass time at our house as is forever cooking in her new kitchen. Recently, we have begun family game time after supper and have enjoyed Elefun and Candy Land so far. One of her favorite things right now is demanding to watch cartoons and wanting a snaaaaaack while watching it. I have obviously let her watch wayyyyy too much television over the holidays. Trying to break that habit now. One of the funniest things she says right now is asking for "chocolate milk candy", her version of asking for chocolate candy. (Another bad habit from the holiday break)

Both kiddies spend two mornings per week with our dear childcare provider, Mrs. K. They do great "at school" and crash out practically all afternoon upon their return home. So it's almost like a full day of working for me; appointments in the morning and then typing/phone calls most of the afternoon. Sending J is kind of hard, just because I miss having him around. I feel like I never get enough time with him, despite being home with him so much. In all honesty, I feel like I never get enough time with K either, so I guess it is just "neverending mama guilt".

D is well. His work is busy and they are running all kinds of incentives/contests to get more people insured. He is the only insurance salesman you'll ever meet who agrees that some kind of nationalized healthcare is needed here in the US. He enjoyed his time off (two four day weekends) the past couple of weeks, but I think we are all glad to get back into our "normal" routines. K is all about her daddy on the weekends and rarely lets me do anything for her during those days. She is daddy's girl all weekend long. And J, he is on daddy's lap or chest pretty much from the time he gets home from work until he goes to bed. He is such a good daddy. The best.

So, there is the news from our house. Nothing too exciting, which is good in our book. Everyone is healthy and happy and we are all thankful the holidays are OVER. Hope each of you is doing well also!!