A Piece of Cake

New blog

2011-04-05T11:29:00.000-04:00

I know, I know...I already don't post here enough. I say I will, yet here we are with no Christmas pics, no Disney pics or stories, nothing but a rare kid update and those are mostly to serve as memory keepers for me. I have been busy and unmotivated to talk about myself (go figure right?). I'll keep working at it thought. In the meantime, I've started a new blog. It's called Scripts for Life and it is an extension of my practice. The purpose is to give out good information about a variety of issues, provide support, and challenge your thinking a little. Follow me over there too if ya want! I'd love to hear from ya!

Springtime music

2011-04-03T17:02:00.000-04:00

Our home is a loud, crazy place filled with laughter, tears, and bad knock knock jokes. (Sometimes an arguing 3 and 5 year old too). Jack has been very much into music and singing lately and I thought I'd share a few of his lyrics for posterity's sake.

Familiar childhood excerpts a la Jack:

"Hi ho N-G-O, Hi ho N-G-O, Hi ho N-G-O, and Bingo was his name-O!" (That's all he knows, so he repeats it about 200 times)

"Hi ho the barry-O the farmer in the dell" (Repeat x 30 thousand)

"Mawy had a wittle wamb, wittle wamb, wittle wamb. Mawy had a wittle wamb and she got on the snow"

Mommy has been teaching him how to say his "L's" which he is doing great at with a little prompting. Truth be told, it is a sad day for a Mommy. She will miss all those missing L's...

:)

Almost forgot!

2011-01-23T21:37:00.000-05:00

The most frequently overheard game is Eenie Meenie Miney Moe! This is used for almost every decision the children make, especially Jack Rowan. He'll be in the midst of picking something up and will stop himself if he notices there is a second choice to break out an amusing rendition of Eenie Meenie Miney Moe. Of course, once he nears the end of the game, if he realizes the one he doesn't want to choose will be "Moe", he has to mess it up or start over so Moe lands on the 'right' one. Then he'll say something like, "Here, this one is Moe!" Cracks me up!!!

Game on!

2011-01-21T17:11:00.000-05:00

We are game laden at the Williamsons! Rarely a day goes by when there isn't at least one rousing game of Uno, Go Fish, Sorry, Candy Land, Hi Ho CherryO, Chutes and Ladders, Don't Break the Ice, Cars Memory, Princess Memory, Toy Story Memory (aaaah!) etc. etc. One of my favorite things about this is that it has really helped Jack learn his numbers and he can play most of these games independently now (without being on a team with Mommy or Daddy). He is a card shark and loves to pay Uno and Go Fish. One funny thing is that when a person gets down to one card in Go Fish, Jack makes us yell "Go Fish!!!" (just like in Uno!) Cracks me up every time!!!

Kate has become quite the strategist and likes to save up the "good" cards in her hand until the end to blast us all! Her favorite game is Disney's Scene It which we all love! Thanks Santa! We are so busy already with school, dance class, mommy working two nights per week, lots of weekend plans and the kids are only 3 and 5!!! Playing games together is a great way to share some laughs and quality time and we LOVE it! Kate even writes about all her game playing in her journal at school, which is a sure sign that it has a positive impact!

Secrets of a Mother Part I

2011-01-12T22:32:00.001-05:00

Having been a mother for (a mere) five and a half years, I've discovered that there are a few "secrets" that were kept hidden from me. Things other mothers knew about, but didn't warn me about. Some are hilarious, some are astounding, others heartbreaking. I'm posting just a few here and hope that you will share your's too! (FYI, it is research for a book) So pipe in and share the secrets you have learned about motherhood!!!

1. I had heard that my hair would change while pregnant, but I did not know it would be a permanent change. Mine is a full two shades darker than it was prior to having kids (and I secretly love it this way!). And curlier. Well, "curlier" is really too nice of a description, "frizzier" is more accurate.

2. I did not know my feet would grow by two sizes. (It can be hard to find cute shoes in a size 9 1/2)

3. I did not know I would have it within me to want to smack another child just because he hurt my child's feelings. (I didn't do it, btw! But seriously wanted to) :)

4. You know how all your "issues" came up when you were planning your wedding? You know, the ones buried deep down inside from your childhood? Just when you thought you were done with those, you have a baby and Lordy, do they come back bigger than ever!

5. Trusting yourself with your child is the hardest thing you will ever do. Until you have to trust someone else with your child.

6. The best words you will ever hear are "Mommy! Mommy!" But on some days, those are the words you that drive you to the brink!

What secrets have you learned?

Are you following me?

2011-01-07T21:11:00.001-05:00

I added a feature over there ----->
that allows you to follow my blog.
Are you following me? I hope so! Now,
please do so "officially"! It motivates me to
write more and keep up to date! According to
my view counter, I know you are out there, so
please add yourself as an official follower.
Whether you're family, friend, or unknown friend
from far away, I'd love to know you are reading!
I will be posting more frequently this year. I will!
Thanks for following and bearing with me. More to
come....

Fun at Wonderlab!

2010-12-10T15:00:00.001-05:00

We are very fortunate to live in a small city that has a wonderful local Children's Museum called Wonderlab. It has a bubble room, a two story climbing thing, all sorts of hands on activities, a water table, music instruments, magnets, insects, snakes, and a hundred other things. We love spending time there! The kids have so much fun! I won't comment about how much Dan and I learn when we are there!

To Infinity and Beyond!

2010-11-01T09:03:00.000-04:00

I think this year's Halloween was a great success! The kids chose Toy Story themed costumes and as you can see, there were no cuter Jessie or Buzz Lightyears in this galaxy! We walked the neighborhood and enjoyed hunting for houses with lights on indicating they were ready for trick or treaters. (We have a lot of IU retirees in our neighborhood, so there aren't many kids). The neighbors all thought the kids were so adorable and let them take handfuls of candy since there aren't many kids around. Dan and I got a big laugh out of the neighbors who declared, "I'm so glad to see you! Last year I didn't get any trick or treaters!" We laughed b/c they were always houses that we went to last year. ;)

A moment of reflection

2010-10-10T16:17:00.000-04:00

After years of dreaming, 12 months of active preparation, and 10 months of taking baby steps, my dream of having a private practice is fulfilled. My practice (Nicki Williamson, MSW, LCSW, LLC) officially began in December 2009 after obtaining a tax ID number. In January 2010, I moved into my little office located in the heart of downtown Bloomington with my second hand desk, lamps and wallhangings from around our house, chairs from Craigslist, and a big smile. I hosted my first parenting workshop and began marketing marketing marketing.

By the end of the month, I welcomed my first client. I hosted some educational seminars and my one client grew to three clients by the end of the second month. I was nervous and excited and hopeful (and scared!). During the next few months, I gained clients here and there from various places. I tried different marketing ideas and learned some worked better than others. I designed my first round of brochures (shaking my head in shame) and then attended a workshop that showed me how I did everything WRONG. I took a deep breath, saved my money and revamped those brochures into something I am now proud to share with others.

I've been working three other jobs in addition to my practice throughout this year. I had to in order to meet the financial obligations we have along with the expenses this new business incurs. During the past two weeks, I was able to let those other jobs go. I now get to spend my energy working at my practice. My full time practice that is picking up referrals from doctors, other therapists, radio ads, online ads, newspaper ads, and most importantly (and difficult!) word of mouth.

This is my first week working at my office full time (which is three days per week). I will still pick up some consulting here and there, but that is now by choice and not by necessity. And it feels like flying. I get to be home on the weekends with my family. I get to be home with my husband and family to eat dinner together most nights and tuck my babies into bed. I get to go to work at a job I love, and help people who need some extra support and guidance.

I'm not writing this to hear any "Good jobs" or "Well dones". I am writing this to remind myself that on this day, I have accomplished what I set out to do. Like many women, I am hardest on myself about not being a good enough wife, mother, worker, or friend. Today, I am going to document that I did it. It took time, determination, passion, and patience. I created what I wanted and am taking a moment to focus on that.

This boy of three

2010-10-04T20:39:00.001-04:00

This boy of three actively seeks out adventure and excitement. He is quick to smile which often turns into laughter and goofiness. He is loud, joyful, and animated and loves to sing songs. Especially the silly ones!

This boy of three is head strong and passionate. He can be a real stinker but turns things around quickly when headed down the wrong path. Like his daddy, he is a gentle soul with a sweetness that attracts all kinds of people. He likes to do things his own way, but also loves to be included, especially if it is with the big kids. "I did it!!! I am a big boy, Mommy. I am fwee!!" (as he holds three fingers out, ever so careful to make sure his little thumb holds his pinky finger in place)

This boy of three still loves everything on wheels. He rides his bike so fast it highsides in the corners. I'm not sure if he notices mommy's shaking hands and pounding heart, or daddy's pounding heart and broad smile. But we are there. Watching every move. His 12 inch bike was quickly traded in for something bigger, faster and he hopped on the 16 inch bike as though he was born to ride it. "Wook how fast I am! I am fast wike Wightening McQueen!" Yes baby, you are fast.

This boy of three adores his daddy. He wants to do everything his daddy does and sometimes hangs his head sadly and says "I miss daddy" when he is at work. If Daddy is around, he is definitely chosen to be Jack's partner. He especially loves riding in Daddy's big truck and when Daddy takes him to the construction site to see the big bulldozers or to the Recycling Center "to do the 'cycling". They are great buddies.

This boy of three longs to be with his big sister. He misses her when she is gone to Kindergarten, but is finding his own place now that she is not there to overshadow him. He talks about his own day with his friends and takes pride in wearing his backpack to his preschool like Kate. He looks forward to dropping her off in the mornings and picking her up in the afternoons. The two are inseparable now when they are home together. They happily go on make believe adventures together. They are Jessie and Buzz Lightyear off to save the day. Or they are prince and princess trying to defeat the ever elusive bad guy. They act out scenes from Dora or Max & Ruby and watch movies together. They are the best of friends.

This boy of three also loves his mommy. He is having some difficulty adjusting to Mommy working an extra day each week, but loves the two Mommy-Jack days we get every week. On these days, we run errands, play games, go to the library, watch cartoons, or just hang around home. He loves that Mommy eats lunch with him at his little table and always eats exactly the same lunch he has. In our quiet times together, he holds my hand, snuggles on my lap, and plays with my hair just as he has always done.

This boy of three. He changes so quickly. Yet some things always remain the same. And I am thankful.

The Narrative

2010-08-23T08:46:00.001-04:00

As you can see by the pics I posted last week, Kate did great on her first day of Kindergarten! She was nervous, but we had the opportunity to spend a half hour in her classroom by ourselves with her teacher on Monday, which really helped calm her nerves. This was a big relief to me as she had quite a few tears and conversations with us in recent weeks about how she never wants to grow up, she never wants to leave her preschool environment, and didn't want to be a Kindergartener. :(

Thankfully, the morning went off without a hitch...for her anyway. Mommy and Daddy had to deal with dead batteries in the camera, Mommy's car's power steering almost going out completely on the way to school, and forgetting Kate's backpack. :)

She was a little hesitant to introduce herself to her classmates, so I helped with that. She was a little disappointed when she climbed up into the loft and the boys up there didn't talk to her. But then I reminded her that all the kids in her class were in the same preschool class together, so they all knew each other and were happy to be together after a week or so apart. She went and joined some girls who were playing ponies and sat on the edge of their circle. She watched for a few minutes while Mommy and Jack walked around the classroom (and Daddy drove home to get power steering fluid and her backpack!). I glanced over to see how she was doing and she stood up, walked to the center of the group, took a pony out of the pile and started playing along. (Yay!) I checked on her a few minutes later and she smiled at me and said "Mommy! They are letting me play!" (which made me take a HUGE swallow so as not to burst into tears b/c she is so dang sweet.)

Daddy made it back and saved the day. We took pics at her cubby, gave her a hug and kiss, and headed out the door. She ran back to us for "one more hug and kiss" which made me have to wipe my eyes in her hair while I hugged her. I couldn't even speak at that point. I was so excited for her and proud!!! She was so brave and confident. I wish I could bottle it sometimes and take a dose myself.

She loves Kindergarten so much that she doesn't want me picking her up on MWF at 2:30, when the "official" Kindergarten day ends. Instead, she wants to stay with her classmates, play outside, and have fun with "Chris" (the twenty-something man who is there in the afternoons with the kids who dresses crazy and is fun like a barrel full of monkeys. The kids LOVE him!) We are still working on a compromise about this b/c it is hard for Mommy not to have her home with me on MWF afternoons. We'll see. Most importantly, she loves it and is finding her place among new friends!

The big day

2010-08-18T22:05:00.005-04:00

You can fill in the blanks.

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Happy Birthday Kate!

2010-08-05T10:16:00.002-04:00

Dear Kate,

Today you are FIVE YEARS OLD!!! I don't know what it is about the age of five, but I distinctly remember looking into your wrinkly, pink, bright blue eyed face when you were brand new trying to imagine the little girl you would be at five. It was so hard to picture you growing big enough to fit into newborn clothes that day, nevermind imagine you with a backpack heading off to Kindergarten.

And here it is. I am so excited for you to be this age! You are embarking on a whole new world and I'm certain you will leave a strong and lasting footprint. You are very imaginative and love the world of make-believe. You remind me of my own childhood, as you play for hours in your far off lands with fairies, love stories, danger, and happily ever afters. Daddy and Mommy often hear "just one more minute!" when we call you to dinner, remind you of bathtime, or ask you to leave your secret world.

You continue to amaze me by your love for all things. Everything is precious to you. You don't like parting with friends, family, outgrown clothes, old toys, or dead flowers. Sometimes you tell me that you don't want to grow up, you want your life to remain EXACTLY as it is in that very moment. And while I can't stop the clock, there are plenty of times when I wish I could.

The world is big and can be overwhelming, but it is full of friends, adventure, love, and kindness. Good things will always find you because you are a light in this world.

It's been five years, they've flown by in a hearbeat. One more deep breath and you will be ten. But for now....for now, you are five. Happy Birthday to my baby Kate.

Love,
Mommy

The latest

2010-07-31T16:29:00.003-04:00

It has been a BUSY few weeks over here. I began a new job. Just one day per week at the local hospital, where I am a medical social worker. I love it. I love the challenge of every patient and situation being new and unknown. I feel like a detective...wandering the halls of the hospital, trying to figure out where I am going, what the problem is, who is involved, how the heck can it be solved, or at least a step in the direction of being solved. Did I mention our hospital is like a flippin' corn maze? Every floor is different. Every hallway on every floor is different. Some elevators go to some floors. Others do not. Then there is the staff only elevator...don't get me started. Not that elevators matter because I take the stairs which are much faster. My floors include three units on the second floor, one unit on the third floor, and one on the fourth floor. Up, down, up down, all day long. "Where am I? How do I get to...? I love being around people, the patients, the families, other professionals. I come home. absolutely. exhausted. I sleep like a baby on Tuesday nights. It's a big change knowing that I am expected to be somewhere at a particular time, punch a time clock, and get as much work as possible crammed into my eight hours. It's insane. I love it!
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A few weeks ago I was able to take a short trip to Ft. Lauderdale. A college friend had a conference to attend at a beach resort there and she invited me to join her. It meant days by myself lounging poolside, taking naps, reading books, walking the beach while she attended conferences. In the evenings, we had dinner together, shopped, had a few drinks, and laughed and reminisced (?). I left on Sunday morning and arrived back to Indy on Thursday afternoon to big hugs, smiles, and the shouts of "Mommy!" in the airport. I missed them dearly. But the rest I got during my stay was un-flippin'-believable. So, I refuse to complain about being tired at all. At least for awhile.
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Upon my return home, it was time for packing, organizing, and planning for the annual Williamson family camping trip. Dan's family: mother and stepfather, four sisters, their husbands, kids, some of the kids' friends. A lot of people. The heat of July. But lots of fun. My son was a MANIAC on his new-to-him 12" bike. He fell off (high siding in the corners for those motorcycle racing fans) no less than ten times. Each time jumping back up, "I'm all right!". Only once did Mommy have to come running to disentangle limbs from handle bars, spokes of wheels, etc. Still..."I'm all right!" with the world's biggest grin. Only tears followed b/c Mommy INSISTED he park his bike so that MOMMY could friggin' take a breath for a minute without watching her sweet babe hit the concrete/grass/whatever for more than a twenty minute interval. He is his father's son. Enough said. (And yes, Missy Miss L-O-V-E-S camping with all the girly girl cousins!)
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Upon our return home from camping began my marathon work schedule. Training training training at the hospital. Lots of long hours at the practice along with some other jobs I still maintain. A few new clients at the practice lately (HOORAY!). It is still building and I am loving the practice as well. It is my dream come true.
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Had some friends in town on Thursday who stopped in for an overnight with their three boys (9, 6, 3) as they were moving across country. Dan's best friend is in the Marines and is moving back to California. Loved our visit with them. It turned into a large dinner party with some old friends from my husband's home town (who happen to live here also and were friends with his friend who was in town visiting). Had a great visit with them all. My kids were up very late that night.
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The following night there was a break in the heat, so we journied out to the county fair. Had a great time with the kids. Enjoyed a fair dinner of hot dogs, nachos, corn on the cob, and cotton candy. :) Love the fair. The kids enjoyed the big slide with Daddy, the helicopters, the duck pond, the bounce house, and we all rode the ferris wheel together. Kate has recently fallen in love with horses, so loved seeing them up close and petting them. Jack was more hesitant, but he was able to pet a cow later on. Mama's favorite were the quacking ducks and a rooster cock-a-doodle-doo'd just as Jack walked past which gave us all a laugh. My kids were up very late that night.

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Tonight we had a joined birthday party for Kate with two of Kate's besties who also turned five in recent weeks. We rented out a local pool, therefore, the party couldn't start until 7:30pm. Cupcakes, juice boxes, more cupcakes, swimming, swimming, swimming, and sliding sliding sliding at the pool. Oh the fun! My kids loved every minute and would still be there if we would have let them. My kids were up very late this night.

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These are the last days of my girl being four. I am so excited for what lies ahead for her at five. And in a couple of weeks.... Kindergarten!!!! Stay tuned!

The best girl EVER!!!

2010-05-26T17:06:00.002-04:00

She may love princess stuff, dress-up, and all things pink and purple, but she also loves to climb trees!

I L-O-V-E that!

The makings of a real man...

2010-05-19T13:18:00.004-04:00

Today's faves

2010-04-25T19:29:00.000-04:00

A 2.5 year old little boy runs towards his mama as fast as his feet will carry him, with a big grin and a fist full of cars. One falls out of his sweaty little fist and crashes to the wooden floor....

Jack: Whoops-the-daisies!

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A 4.5 year old little girl who is much closer to five than four, sits on her mama's lap engaged in a conversation:

Kate: Mama, do you know Channah MON tana? I met her today.

Mid thirties

2010-04-12T16:46:00.000-04:00

Today is my 35th birthday. This is a strange age.

I am not 22, with big naive eyes, staring at the world and trying to imagine myself in ten years when I am grown up.

I am not 27, more comfortable in my grown up skin, yet still feeling unsure of myself and where I want to be.

I am not 30, graduating out of my twenties and wondering why I thought I was grown up before at all.

I am not 33, well into my thirties, no longer looking back at my twenties and wondering where they went.

I am 35. Not old. Not young. Much less naive. Less optimistic about the future, but more comfortable being the present. So many people have entered and exited my life. Some I have surely forgotten, some I probably think about too often.

Thirty five. Not good. Not bad. Not fast. Not slow. There is still so much left to do.

Kid stuff...what else?

2010-03-19T22:20:00.004-04:00

Kate likes doing "dot-to-dot" puzzles now. She calls them "Dot-to-dot-to-dots". (It makes me giggle every time)

Jack has this pouty little face/stance he gets now. He folds his arms dramatically in front of his chest, gives a heavy sigh, dips his head, furrows his brow, sticks out his pouty lip, and says.... "I mad with Kate, Mom."

In cartoon newss (really?), Mommy and Daddy's new favorite is "Little Bill". Have you seen it? So cute! We sing the theme song together as a family and all get this head-groove thing going on! ".....Little Bill!...."

Jack loves rocking out on the electric guitar Gma bought him for Christmas. Its just a cheap, plastic guitar with buttons and a few strings, but he loves it (complete with wa-wa bar?). Bonus for parents: It plays "Message in a Bottle" by the Police, "Love Shack" by the B-52's, and "All-star" by Smash Mouth which my kids sing! Jack's fave: "Only sootin' stars... bake da' moooow-wooold"

We had an all day playdate today with our dearest friends' kids. It was awesome!! I knew the big kids (Kate and her 4.5 y.o. friend, Grayson) would do fine. I knew Jack would be fine because we were at home and he was with me, but the "wild card" was the 18 month old. She's as sweet as can be, but you know with an 18 month old being away from her mommy, it can go either way. Plus, it had been a long time since she'd been to my house, nevermind been to my house without her mommy! I knew it was going well when she (Scarlett) came up to me while we were playing in the playroom and suddenly gave me a big ol' smooch on the mouth. Score one for me!!! (And thank you sweet Scarlett!) :)

Big girl = Big times!

2010-03-17T12:47:00.002-04:00

Kate is four AND A HALF and seems to be growing more and more every day. Some days I just stare in awe of how far she has come in her little life. I remember when she was between 12-18 months old, I felt like she was growing and changing by the minute. She was saying new words every day, started walking, then running, and grew taller and leaner every week. I have been having that same feeling of late.

She has finally surpassed and maintained the "over 30 pound" mark and is now in a big girl booster seat. She can unbuckle herself and open the back door to get out of the car by herself, which leaves Mommy feeling strangely like I am forgetting something every time we go out. She is asking how to spell everything under the sun and can even read some short, three letter words. I am amazed every time she brings home a school paper that has a complete word written on it or phrase like "I love you, Mommy" scrawled out in her large, recognizable letters. Today, as we walked to her room for nap (an occurrence that is happening about three days per week now), she said "Watch this!" And VOILA! She was skipping. I didn't know she could skip! I was so excited for her and we skipped together laughing at her accomplishment.

She's a master on her bike and loves speeding down the driveway only to slam on her brakes or turn at the last second before crossing "the line". (The imaginary line Mommy draws on the driveway that the kids cannot pass without Mommy or Daddy) She is zipping jackets, fastens buttons, wants to start learning to tie her shoes, and continues working on snaps.

Katie bird had her first girlfriend sleepover this past weekend. She was so excited all week long. All we heard was "how many more sleeps 'til Lily comes?" and "Only one more sleep until Lil comes over!" They enjoyed playing princesses, Polly Pocket, having a dance party, eating spaghetti, watching a Little Mermaid movie, and sleeping on the floor in their princess sleeping bags. It was a big success! I couldn't believe it went so smoothly! I half-expected to have to drive to the west side in the middle of the night lest her little friend missed home too much, or have to intervene among arguing 4 year olds over whose Polly Pocket wore what outfit. But nothing of the sort happened. It was great!

My little girl is growing up. Seriously growing up. She talks of going to school, riding the bus, and marrying her little brother when she grows up. It goes by so fast and while I don't want to turn back the clock, I'd be fine if it wanted to slow down a little. :)

Weekend Highlights

2010-03-01T08:36:00.002-05:00

1. Hung out with a girlfriend on Friday night. Talked all night about nothing and everything. That's so therapeutic for me.

2. Saw a client in a nursing home who has deteriorated from a vibrant, active, outdoors-y, stubborn man last year, to a confused, agitated, sad man this year. Damn Alzheimer's.

3. Saw a client in the hospital who yelled at me for no reason. Then proceeded to loudly tell me how to pronounce her name for three minutes. After my evaluation with her, the nurse said, "How did it go?" I said, "Uh...great." She said, "At least she didn't bite you...". Good point.

4. Watched Pocahontus with my favorite girl all snuggled up on the couch.

5. Met and hired a babysitter a friend referred. She was great. As it turns out, she is a friend of my cousin, despite the fact that my cousin lives two hours away. That makes me love the sitter even more!

6. Watched Avatar in 3-D. Made me a little nauseated initially, but after a few minutes I was okay. BEST MOVIE EVER. Yay for date night!!!

7. Went to church with the family. I really like the guest minister who has been filling in...he seems all fire and brimstone, but then, is suprisingly not. I'd heard him speak before and was intimidated by his presentation, but now, I love it. He is surprisingly candid and humble. Every time I hear him speak I am moved to be a better me. Not a perfect me, just a better me.

8. Had a nice family dinner together on Sunday evening.

9. Went grocery shopping which was accomplished in under $100. How did THAT happen?

10. Husband cleaned a bunch in the house without any kind of prompting from me. How did THAT happen? LOL (j/k honey. He cleans up alot)

I know it is a thrilling life we lead!! Some jet off to Vegas, some are half drunk laying on a beach, but weekends like this are fine with me. In fact, I prefer them. :)

In Honor of...

2010-01-18T20:10:00.001-05:00

Today, I read my daughter a book about Martin Luther King, Jr. It was geared towards older kids, and I didn't think she'd get much about who he was and what he did for others. But I thought it was very important to talk to her about it anyway. Remember over there... right under her picture, where I noted that she was an "old soul" and made statements and questions that would keep you up at night? Well, here is the conversation we had after the book this afternoon:

Kate: Where is Martin?

Me: He is in Heaven now because he died, remember?

Kate: Why did the bad guy kill Martin?

Me: Well, because he didn't want Martin teaching others to be kind to everyone, no matter what color of skin they have.

Kate: Did he go to Heaven?

Me: Yes, I think so.

Kate: But if he died and went to Heaven, then WHO IS GOING TO BE OUR LEADER now?

Me: (Stunned) You, baby girl. YOU are our leader.

Then I had to explain once again why sometimes when Mommy cries, it is because she is HAPPY, not SAD. My girl...she just gets to the heart of things doesn't she?)

Hearing the call

2010-01-15T16:21:00.000-05:00

Watching the news is heartbreaking. I have been conciously staying away from the local, national, and world news. I know that I shouldn't. I know it is burying my head in the sand.

Tens of thousands are dead. Even more are homeless, lost, and entire lives are in shambles. It reminds me of the tsunami not too many years ago. It takes me back to Katrina four and a half years ago. And even further back to 2001 and the day the safe world I thought I lived in (or pretended to live in) ceased existing. The day that I was forced into thinking about realities that I do not want to consider. They are incomprehensible to my brain.

I avoid the news because I cannot fully separate from it. I am immediately pulled into an anxious state where I am the mother of children I cannot find. The mother of children I cannot get to, cannot reach, cannot save. I have no husband to steady me, no house to keep me warm, no way to contact my family to check on their safety. There is a pull I feel inside when these large scale disasters surface. A pull to serve, to help, to leave my safety and security and go towards the center of chaos. I use the excuse of being the mommy to young children not to go, but I know that one day, I will go. It will be my turn to serve in the chaos. To help those I do not know. To connect with those who feel they have no connections left in the world.

Until then, I will do what I can from here. I will try to watch the news, so that I do not lose sight of what is going on in the world. So that I do not keep my head in the sand. I ask that you do the same. Step out of your comfort zone. Do something to help others. Know that others will help you when you need it. Please take the time to donate funds, food, water, supplies, cash, whatever you can. $10 makes a huge difference. Find a way.

The only predictable thing is change

2010-01-04T21:36:00.000-05:00

The new year brings lots of changes to our house. I am opening a private practice, which has been a long term goal of mine that I kicked into high gear in 2009. I moved into a new office last week and am ecstatic to have found a quaint little spot in my exact desired location. In a couple of days I am conducting a parent training/workshop as a way of getting my name "out there" in the community. I've sent out announcements to local physicians and schools and have had a good response so far. I'm looking forward to getting my first clients this month.

Dan's job has undergone some major changes in the past six months as well. And while his day to day job has not changed much, we are looking forward to seeing what opportunities 2010 brings him and life in the insurance industry. Changes are certainly on the horizon as there are some ownership issues at work and the new health care bill will certainly bring its own changes to the business.

We cannot believe how much the kids have grown! It seems like at least three nights per week I am commenting on how one of them have outgrown ANOTHER pair of jammies. And shoes, shoes, shoes! I wish there was a way to buy them in bulk in a variety of sizes! They are so sweet and have really kind hearts. They miss each other when apart and are attached at the hip when they are together. When they see each other after being apart, they always run to each other with their arms outstretched to give great big hugs. It is the sweetest thing I have ever witnessed. I know that will change in years to come, and they certainly have their fair share of squabbles, but if the amount of love and loyalty the two of them share could be bottled, well, you know the rest....

Here's to you and your family and hoping 2010 is filled with hope, love, kindness, and happiness!

Happiness is...

2009-12-25T13:33:00.000-05:00

My little boy saying "Mom, are you okay?" after every cough or sneeze I make

Listening to my daughter sing Christmas carols and learn the words to all the "grown up" ones all throughout the month of December

The sound of my kids squealing with happiness when they see extended family and all their grandmas and grandpas

Knowing that my husband loves me despite my faults and shortcomings, and that he always will

Feeling supported and encouraged by family and friends who know opening a private practice has been a life long dream of mine

Opening up a gift certificate for housekeeping services for Christmas and knowing that my husband bought it even though the "great sale" he learned about earlier in the month was over

The crackling sound the fire makes in the fireplace

Taking a walk in the neighborhood with the kids and noticing the warm smell of someone burning a fire...and then realizing it is our home that is making our little spot of the world smell so nice

Knowing that I know when there is enough

Watching A Christmas Story at least twice during the 24 hour marathon on TBS every year

Plug

2009-12-04T11:06:00.002-05:00

I ordered Jack a backpack from (http://kidstravelzone.com) It shipped very quickly and they did a beautiful job adding his name and a picture to personalize it. When it arrived, I opened it up and realized I had accidentally ordered him the "big kid backpack" rather than the "little kid backpack". The backpack is so big Jack could climb inside it! I called the company (which is just a couple working out of their home I think) to tell them of my error and ask if there was anything I could do.

They not only said they would send me out the little backpack with the emblems and writing I had requested, but they told me to just keep the big backpack for when Jack gets bigger. Since they were letting me keep TWO backpacks, I offered to pay for the little backpack so that they would not lose money over my error, which they declined. They only asked that I order from them again sometime. Which of course I will do. A million times. Check out their website..they do GREAT work and are a wonderful, kind couple!

Kate-isms

2009-12-02T18:29:00.000-05:00

Heard tonight at dinner-

K: Why does Molly keep woofin' all the time?

M: Do you mean barking?

K: Yeah, but I like to call it "woofin'"

And then later-

K: Oooooh, I broke it! (said in her best 4 y.o. whine) Daddy! Can you come fix this princess?

D: That one breaks alot, let me see if I can fix it.

K: That's why I call you Handy Manny. I mean, Handy Daddy.

I have to get this on camera...

2009-11-09T15:50:00.000-05:00

My son loves all things that "go". He loves cars, trucks, motorcycles, trains...anything with wheels. As many little boys do, he has developed a love for Thomas the Train. His favorite train is Percy. I love to hear him talk about all his favorite things...his speech is so cute these days.

He often takes a Thomas the Train book with him while he and Mommy run errands together on Mondays. Today, while we were looking for t-shirts for Daddy at Kohl's, Jack started playing one of his favorite games. "Where is...." Speech is a funny thing with two year olds.

If you haven't already figured out where I am going with this, he began saying "Where is Percy? Wook, Mommy. There he is! There's Percy! Hi Percy!" But he can't say his "r" very well, so I got some funny looks. But not from the moms of two year old little boys. They all nodded their heads with a knowing smile.

Kid funnies

2009-10-28T18:02:00.001-04:00

Kate: "Mom, can you do me a favorite?"
Mom: "Sure babe. What?"
Kate: "Can I please have some water? And I want it fresh this time."

Kate dictionary: favorite = favor
fresh = with ice

----------------------------------------

Jack: "Wook! A penis! A penis!"
Mom: "No Jack, tractors don't have penises. Only boys
have penises."

For the record, he did have the tractor turned upside down and was pointing to a plastic bump in between the two front wheels. At least he knew where it should be.

----------------------------------------

Father time...or Mother time, rather

2009-10-09T10:01:00.002-04:00

I have been feeling old lately. Not like "one foot in the grave" old, but definitely older. The other day I was in my house with my children peacefully sleeping in their rooms. I had this moment where it dawned on me that I was a grown up. Does that ever happen to you? I mean, I am thirty-four years old and am at an age where I REMEMBER my parents being this age. And I am pretty sure they were grown ups. In some ways, it feels overwhelming and disconcerting. Am I a grown up? When did this happen? How come nobody told me? Most of the time, I feel like I am just pretending to be grown up. Does anyone else feel like that?

I started thinking about what criteria made me consider people "grown ups" when I was a kid. Here is my list thus far...

Grown ups:

1. Have nice houses
2. Drink coffee in the mornings
3. Sometimes have children
4. Have jobs that don't require clocking in/out
5. Have bank accounts that actually have savings in it
6. Have or has had a life partner
7. Make food in crock pots
8. Hide certain junk food from the other people living in their home
9. Have gray hair
10. Have cars that aren't junky
11. Appreciate clothing/shoes that do not come from the local discount store
12. Listen to NPR
13. Watch the world news at night
14. Are interested in learning more. Especially about things they cared nothing
about when they were in school. Like history. And science. And foreign
language.
15. Eat fruits and vegetables on purpose
16. Have a hangover from drinking two or more glasses of wine
17. Are viewed as "professionals" in their field of work
18. Start telling the same stories over and over again
19. Lecture their kids even when they KNOW the kids are not listening
20. Complain about their knees/neck/back hurting alot

Well...shit. The verdict is in.

The face

2009-10-04T23:36:00.004-04:00

My baby turned two years old a couple of days ago. And while I've written a "Two year" letter to him a million times in my head, this picture and this song express so much more than my simple words ever could. This picture was taken by my husband while Jack was looking at me (and wearing his bicycle helmet backwards). This is the face I see and I immediately forget the world around me.

Nothin' but trouble

2009-09-16T18:42:00.002-04:00

Overheard today at my house:

Jack: Aaaaah! Whaaaaaaaaaa! (Insert sounds from 2 year old losing his sh#t)

Mommy: Jack? What's wrong? Kate? What's wrong with Jack?

Kate: Nothing Mommy. Jack was just sharing his snack with me.

She's tricky, but not quite tricky enough.

Kate's first "official" day of preschool

2009-09-11T20:10:00.002-04:00

Of course, she had to strike a "dance" pose for her picture! She attends a private in-home preschool on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. She loves school and even got a special pink backback for her birthday from her best friend, Lily. She loves carrying her "papers" back and forth in it. Kate is already trying to convince me that she has to ride the big yellow school bus to Kindergarten next fall instead of having Mommy take her and pick her up. Gasp. Ummm....NO!

Offensive and disrespectful

2009-09-10T11:33:00.002-04:00

As you all know, I work with the developmentally disabled population. My clients all have some sort of disability that causes them cognitive and/OR physical slowness in development. Some of my clients are babies, some are 95 years old. Some live in their own homes. Some live in group homes. Some live in nursing homes. Some communicate like you and I do, some do not. Some use sign language. Some have no communication skills whatsoever. Some can walk, some cannot. Some can toilet, dress, feed, and bathe themselves and some cannot. Some can manage their emotions/behaviors within a reasonable manner, and some cannot. Some of my clients can read/write and work, and some cannot.

My clients are all human beings. They all have hearts. They all have souls. As such, they all deserve respect.

Please stop using the word "retard" as an insult/comment/descriptor in your life. While you likely mean no disrespect or bigotry, it is an offensive and disrespectful term. Much like the "n" word, or using "gay" to describe something in a negative way, it originated as a descriptor to label many of my clients. It has become common slang language and used in light-hearted and "comical" ways to negatively describe a person. It is disrespectful and offensive.

We are all humans. We all need to be treated with respect. For those of you who have never stopped to think about how that word can hurt others, you no longer have the excuse of not having thought about it. You are thinking of it now. Stop using it. It hurts.

Happiness

2009-09-10T11:16:00.001-04:00

I love my life right now. For real. Absolutely love it. :)

Wandering Indiana

2009-09-03T20:53:00.001-04:00

My consulting job takes me on the road typically at least two days per week. I have been doing alot of working in Indianapolis lately, which has given me ample "deep thoughts" time. It has also given me a new area to learn with lots to do in my down time. Here are some random thoughts I had today...

1. ***NEWSFLASH***
To Taylor Swift's best guy friend:
She is totally in love with you. Open your eyes and see it. Either date her or tell her its never gonna happen so she can stop writing the same song over and over again.

2. "Wow! There is a mama elephant with her baby!!!"

3. "I'm not going to get lost, I'm not going to get lost, I'm not going to get lost." (as I drove downtown Indy)

4. "I can do this, let's see... the sun rises in the east and sets in the west. I need to go west. So I'll go this way. Dang. It's one way. That's okay..I'll just go around the block."

5. "Shoot. That sign says I am in the northeast quadrant....that ain't west."

6. "Did I just think "ain't?"

7. "Just keep swimming...just keep swimming...just keep swimming" (from Nemo)

8. Several hours later... "My niche should be designing clothes for four year olds. I could fill the LARGE GAPING HOLE that falls in little girl clothing between 'baby-ish and hoochy-mama'"

It's a random life I lead.

True Confessions

2009-08-31T16:08:00.001-04:00

1. I smile every time I hear Pete from Mickey Mouse Clubhouse say "Mickey the Mouse". Then I say it too.

2. I hate that my baby boy has been sick, but have LOVED having him sleep with me the past two nights.

3. The other day I was driving to a friend's birthday party and was humming the theme from "The Berenstein Bears". There were no kids in my car.

4. The thought of my kids playing with the germ-infested toys in the doctor's office waiting room makes me want to hurl. But, I totally considered letting my coughing, sneezing, snot dripping son play with them this morning. (I said "considered"... don't worry, I kept him occupied with a snack on my lap instead)

5. Sometimes I feel sad that my kids look nothing like me. Not that I am vain, but hey, a little resemblance wouldn't be bad.

The truth of things

2009-08-30T11:19:00.000-04:00

Another post stolen from my friend Kelly, who got it from another blog. I found so many of these to be true, I had to share them!

-I wish Google Maps had an “Avoid Ghetto” routing option.

-More often than not, when someone is telling me a story all I can think about is that I can’t wait for them to finish so that I can tell my own story that’s not only better, but also more directly involves me.

-Nothing sucks more than that moment during an argument when you realize you’re wrong.

-I don’t understand the purpose of the line, “I don’t need to drink to have fun.” Great, no one does. But why start a fire with flint and sticks when they’ve invented the lighter?

-Have you ever been walking down the street and realized that you’re going in the complete opposite direction of where you are supposed to be going? But instead of just turning a 180 and walking back in the direction from which you came, you have to first do something like check your watch or phone or make a grand arm gesture and mutter to yourself to ensure that no one in the surrounding area thinks you’re crazy by randomly switching directions on the sidewalk.

-That’s enough, Nickelback.

-I totally take back all those times I didn’t want to nap when I was younger.

-Is it just me, or are 80% of the people in the “people you may know”
feature on Facebook people that I do know, but I deliberately choose not to be friends with?

-Do you remember when you were a kid, playing Nintendo and it wouldn’t work? You take the cartridge out, blow in it and that would magically fix the problem. Every kid in America did that, but how did we all know how to fix the problem? There was no internet or message boards or FAQ’s. We just figured it out. Today’s kids are soft.

-There is a great need for sarcasm font.

-Sometimes, I’ll watch a movie that I watched when I was younger and suddenly realize I had no idea what the f was going on when I first saw it.

-I think everyone has a movie that they love so much, it actually becomes stressful to watch it with other people. I’ll end up wasting 90 minutes shiftily glancing around to confirm that everyone’s laughing at the right parts, then making sure I laugh just a little bit harder (and a millisecond earlier) to prove that I’m still the only one who really, really gets it.

-How the hell are you supposed to fold a fitted sheet?

-I would rather try to carry 10 plastic grocery bags in each hand than take 2 trips to bring my groceries in.
- I think part of a best friend’s job should be to immediately clear your computer history if you die.
-The only time I look forward to a red light is when I’m trying to finish a text.

- A recent study has shown that playing beer pong contributes to the spread of mono and the flu. Yeah, if you suck at it.

- Was learning cursive really necessary?

- Lol has gone from meaning, “laugh out loud” to “I have nothing else to say”.

- I have a hard time deciphering the fine line between boredom and hunger.

- Answering the same letter three times or more in a row on a Scantron test is absolutely petrifying.

- My brother’s Municipal League baseball team is named the Stepdads.
Seeing as none of the guys on the team are actual stepdads, I inquired about the name. He explained, “Cuz we beat you, and you hate us.”
Classy, bro.

- Whenever someone says “I’m not book smart, but I’m street smart”, all I hear is “I’m not real smart, but I’m imaginary smart”.

- How many times is it appropriate to say “What?” before you just nod and smile because you still didn’t hear what they said?

- I love the sense of camaraderie when an entire line of cars teams up to prevent a dick from cutting in at the front. Stay strong, brothers!

- Every time I have to spell a word over the phone using ‘as in examples, I will undoubtedly draw a blank and sound like a complete idiot. Today I had to spell my boss’s last name to an attorney and said “Yes that’s G as in…(10 second lapse)..ummm…Goonies”

-What would happen if I hired two private investigators to follow each other?

- While driving yesterday I saw a banana peel in the road and instinctively swerved to avoid it…thanks Mario Kart.

- MapQuest really needs to start their directions on #5. Pretty sure I know how to get out of my neighborhood.

- Obituaries would be a lot more interesting if they told you how the person died.

- I find it hard to believe there are actually people who get in the shower first and THEN turn on the water.

-Shirts get dirty. Underwear gets dirty. Pants? Pants never get dirty, and you can wear them forever.

- I would like to officially coin the phrase ‘catching the swine flu’ to be used as a way to make fun of a friend for hooking up with an overweight woman. Example: “Dave caught the swine flu last night.”

-I can’t remember the last time I wasn’t at least kind of tired.

- Bad decisions make good stories

-Whenever I’m Facebook stalking someone and I find out that their profile is public I feel like a kid on Christmas morning who just got the Red Ryder BB gun that I always wanted. 546 pictures? Don’t mind if I do!

- Is it just me or do high school girls get sluttier & sluttier every year?

-If Carmen San Diego and Waldo ever got together, their offspring would probably just be completely invisible.

-Why is it that during an ice-breaker, when the whole room has to go around and say their name and where they are from, I get so incredibly nervous? Like I know my name, I know where I’m from, this shouldn’t be a problem….

-You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment at work when you’ve made up your mind that you just aren’t doing anything productive for the rest of the day.

-Can we all just agree to ignore whatever comes after DVDs? I don’t want to have to restart my collection.

-There’s no worse feeling than that millisecond you’re sure you are going to die after leaning your chair back a little too far.

-I’m always slightly terrified when I exit out of Word and it asks me if I want to save any changes to my ten page research paper that I swear I did not make any changes to.

- “Do not machine wash or tumble dry” means I will never wash this ever.

-I hate being the one with the remote in a room full of people watching TV. There’s so much pressure. ‘I love this show, but will they judge me if I keep it on? I bet everyone is wishing we weren’t watching this. It’s only a matter of time before they all get up and leave the room. Will we still be friends after this?’

-I hate when I just miss a call by the last ring (Hello? Hello? Dammit!), but when I immediately call back, it rings nine times and goes to voicemail. What’d you do after I didn’t answer? Drop the phone and run away?

- I hate leaving my house confident and looking good and then not seeing anyone of importance the entire day. What a waste.

-When I meet a new girl, I’m terrified of mentioning something she hasn’t already told me but that I have learned from some light internet stalking.

-I like all of the music in my iTunes, except when it’s on shuffle, then I like about one in every fifteen songs in my iTunes.

-Why is a school zone 20 mph? That seems like the optimal cruising speed for pedophiles…

- As a driver I hate pedestrians, and as a pedestrian I hate drivers, but no matter what the mode of transportation, I always hate cyclists.

-Sometimes I’ll look down at my watch 3 consecutive times and still not know what time it is.

-It should probably be called Unplanned Parenthood.

-I keep some people’s phone numbers in my phone just so I know not to answer when they call.

-Even if I knew your social security number, I wouldn’t know what do to with it.

-Even under ideal conditions people have trouble locating their car keys in a pocket, hitting the G-spot, and Pinning the Tail on the Donkey – but I’d bet my ass everyone can find and push the Snooze button from 3 feet away, in about 1.7 seconds, eyes closed, first time every time…

-My 4-year old son asked me in the car the other day “Dad what would happen if you ran over a ninja?” How the hell do I respond to that?

-It really pisses me off when I want to read a story on CNN.com and the link takes me to a video instead of text.

-I wonder if cops ever get pissed off at the fact that everyone they drive behind obeys the speed limit.

-I think the freezer deserves a light as well.

-I disagree with Kay Jewelers. I would bet on any given Friday or Saturday night more kisses begin with Miller Lites than Kay.

-The other night I ordered takeout, and when I looked in the bag, saw they had included four sets of plastic silverware. In other words, someone at the restaurant packed my order, took a second to think about it, and then estimated that there must be at least four people eating to require such a large amount of food. Too bad I was eating by myself. There’s nothing like being made to feel like a fat bastard before dinner.

Wake up call

2009-08-24T15:42:00.002-04:00

Our mornings have gotten better and better of late. Our children have been sleeping in until 7:30 -8:00 am. Which is AWESOME! Even if we stay up to watch our 10pm shows, it's just not that bad. And just when you think the cute sayings are gone b/c your four year old is soooo old, there is a new one!

This morning this is what we woke up to coming through the baby monitor:

Kate: "Daddy....Daddy.....wooo hooo.....Daddy" (think "yoo hoo" but way cuter)

How can you NOT wake up smiling to that? Even on a Monday!

Nicki-ology

2009-08-18T10:24:00.002-04:00

A fun post from my friend Kelly's blog! Copy it and fill in your answers and post it in the comment section, FB page, or blog

*********** FOODOLOGY***************

What is your salad dressing of choice? Depends on my mood (ranch, blue cheese, 1000 island, vinagarette)

What is your favorite sit-down restaurant? PF Changs

What food could you eat every day for two weeks and not get sick of? cereal

What are your pizza toppings of choice? cheese, ham and pineapple, stms barbecue

What do you like to put on your toast? butter

***********TECHNOLOGY***************

How many televisions are in your house? 3 (one in family room, one in basement, one dead one in the garage)

What color is your cellphone? black

Do you have an iPod? of course

***************BIOLOGY******************
Are you right-handed or left-handed? Right

Have you ever had anything removed from your body? My wisdom teeth; my children

What is the last heavy item you lifted? idk, my son?

Have you ever been knocked unconscious? yes

************BULLOLOGY**************
If it were possible, would you want to know the day you were going to die? yes

If you could change your name, what would you change it to? I like my name

Would you drink an entire bottle of hot sauce for $1000? no

**************FAVORITOLOGY****************
Season? Fall

Holiday? Christmas

Day of the week? Sunday

Month? October

***********CURRENTOLOGY*****************
Missing someone? Not really

Mood? calm

What are you listening to? all kinds of things

Current worry? not too worried right now

***************RANDOMOLOGY*****************
First place you went this morning? The potty

What's the last movie you saw? The Ugly Truth- great!

***************OTHER-OLOGY*****************
How many pairs of flip flops do you own? 1

Last time you had a run-in with the cops? Oh my...years ago.

Last person you talked to? Kelly

Last person you hugged? Kate

Do you always answer your phone? No.

It's four in the morning and you get a text message, who is it? hmmmm...not sure, could be anyone really

If you could change your eye color what would it be? I like my eye color

Do you own a digital camera? Yes

Have you ever had a pet fish? yes

Favorite Christmas song(s)? The Christmas Song by Nat Cole

What's on your wish list for your birthday? don't have a list yet

Can you do push ups? Sure, but do I? no.

Can you do the splits? Nope

Does the future make you more nervous or excited? Excited

Do you have any saved texts? No

Have you ever been in a car accident? Yes

Do you have an accent? I don't think so.

What is the last movie to make you cry? I can't remember.

Plans tonight? Work work work

Have you ever felt like you hit rock bottom? yes

Name 3 things you bought yesterday? popcorn, diet coke, birthday card

Have you ever been given roses? Yes...but its been way too long

Met someone who changed your life? Yes

How will you bring in the New Year? Hopefully giving my hubby a smooch

What song represents you? there are many

Name two people who might complete this? unsure

Would you go back in time if you were given the chance? yes

Have you ever dated someone longer than a year? Yes

Do you have any tattoos/piercings? just ears pierced

Does anyone love you? Yes

Would you be a pirate? No

What songs do you sing in the shower? I don't sing in the shower, but there is always one playing in my head

Ever had someone sing to you? yes...LOVE it!

When did you last cry? The other night after talking to my daughter about Kindergarten

Do you like to cuddle? Yes, but I don't get enough of it

Have you held hands with anyone today? No

Who was the last person you took a picture of? kate and jack

Are most of the friends in your life new or old? a mixture of both

Do you like pulpy orange juice? Not really.

What is something your friends make fun of you for? talking too much probably

The fourth year....

2009-08-16T13:21:00.001-04:00

Four!!!!

2009-08-16T13:09:00.003-04:00

Dear Kate,

How on earth you can already be four years old is beyond my comprehension. I cannot believe it! You are so smart, baby girl. You are on the verge of reading, are doing some simple addition, writing your name, and are so ready to go to school. Daddy and I have mixed feelings about you starting school next Fall, as you will no doubt be the youngest in your grade. However, it is impossible to imagine holding you back until you are six, since you are so ready this year!

You are still very much a dancer and performer. You pretend, pretend, pretend, all day long. When I ask you what you want to be when you grow up, it changes depending on the day. But mostly you answer, "A dancer AND a mommy." You have a best friend now, and love having girl time. Your social network has broadened and you have also made a couple of good friends at dance class. Everyone we meet when we are out and about, you deem as your friend. You are a dear, sweet girl.

This year you took a full nine months of dance and loved every minute of it. There was a big recital in June and you did GREAT! You didn't even hestitate when they moved you up into the front row b/c the little girl who was there ran off the stage crying. My big girl! You have been taking swimming lessons all summer and are starting to feel more comfortable in the water. You are more comfortable getting your face wet and have begun floating on your back and belly.

You are very much into princesses, singing, dress up, and all things GIRL. You love playing with baby dolls, people, and doll houses. You are also pedaling your big girl bike this summer and are VERY PROUD of yourself for that big accomplishment. Your fave colors are pink and purple and you ask Mommy almost every day if they are my fave colors too. ;)

Daddy and I are so proud of the big/little girl you have become. You are kind and thoughtful, although have no problems speaking your mind when you are in a familiar situation. You love having a little brother and are such a good role model for him. You have already taught him so much! I am amazed at all he has picked up from you! You completely amaze me at how brave you are! You want to ride "big kid" rides when we are at carnivals, despite not being quite tall enough to do so yet. On our recent trip to Holiday World, you even went on a big water slide with Daddy and a roller coaster with Mommy. (Even though Mommy was about to back out at the last minute, even though it was a "kid" coaster.)

You amaze us every day with all that you are learning and thinking about. You are such a smart and beautiful soul. We are so thankful God blessed us with you.

All my love,

Mommy

Once bitten, twice shy...

2009-07-30T11:07:00.001-04:00

I walked into the kitchen a few days ago and found this. Apparently, a little one year old boy (who shall remain nameless) can verify that the first bite of an apple is the best. Earlier in the day he had been sitting at the counter coloring...next to the fruit bowl. Stinker. ;)

Kate's perspective..

2009-07-28T13:52:00.002-04:00

Infomercial

2009-07-26T18:53:00.001-04:00

There is a short commercial that I've seen a couple of times for a "new, GENUINE leather Buxton bag"...it apparently organizes your makeup, money, papers, and even carries two water bottles! It is also touted to look fashionable with a variety of outfits and comes in black, red, or tan! It allows for hands-free carrying! Amazing! Innovative!

Some would all it a cheap purse.....

Irritation

2009-07-12T15:59:00.001-04:00

Do Dora and Diego's voices irritate anyone else? Not just their voices, but also the way the ask questions and talk.

"Can YOU find the BIGGEST TREE in the FOREST???"

Makes me want to throw my shoe through the television.

But maybe that's just me.

Spring pictures

2009-05-20T10:22:00.001-04:00

My first baby

2009-05-17T14:16:00.002-04:00

Kate is very much into playing with babies. She likes being "the mommy" and also taking turns as "the baby". Sometimes she plays with baby dolls, but sometimes she turns a book, headband, or play food into her baby. It all depends on the day. There is no lack of imagination in my girl. As such, there is alot of baby talk at our house. Kate often calls herself "my first baby". I have told her that she is my first baby and even though she is a big girl, she will always be my first baby. Even when she is old "like 11?" she asked.

My first baby is fast approaching four years old. I know, it's so hard for me to believe. Four sounds so... so..... OLD. When did my four and a half pound baby girl turn into an almost FOUR YEAR OLD LITTLE GIRL???

Last week Kate was eating non-stop. She typically eats a decent breakfast, lunch, and snacks and has little interest in dinner. This last week she was eating second helpings of almost everything and needed all three snacks too. Her sleep has been very erratic and she has been having a hard time staying asleep all night. She is up by 6:30 every morning and has been falling asleep closer to 8:30-9:00 pm. So today, we are beginning the transition to "rest time" and slowly giving up nap time. Rest time is time she spends in her bed with a Magna Doodle and books. Quiet time to keep mommy sane. Some days she will still nap, but on these days where her energy is limitless and she is no where near tired, I am okay with implementing rest time. It's been a good run....

(sniff sniff)

Out of the mouths of babes

2009-05-07T14:16:00.001-04:00

Jack's babbles have taken on much more "word-like" qualities. I know it is only a matter of weeks before his vocabularly will explode even more and I will lose track of it all!

"Ma!" - Still my personal fave
"Dad! Daaaaaddy!" - No doubt Dan's fave
"Yeah" - said slowly with a sigh and a deep voice
"NO!" - with much conviction and defiance
"Dis?" - a question he asks about every picture or interesting item he sees
"Hyeee" - hi! said with the most enthusiasm you've ever heard
"Ba bye" - wants to go anywhere anytime anyplace
"Yay!" - said with a clap of hands about any kind of song, tune, or silly face
"Allll" - Jack-ese for all done or all gone (this is another one of my faves)
"Moooo" - what a cow says
"Baaaa" - sheep
"ohn ohn" pig
"mew" - cat
"ooooo" - elephant with his arm raised
"woo woo" - said in a whisper for a dog
"tee tee" - birdspeak
"five" - for give me high five or low five
"soos" - shoes
"ssssss" - when mommy makes him say sorry to Kate for hitting her
"orse" - horse (a word I'd never heard him say before until his speech eval of course! He's such a stinker!)
"ook" - book
"ball" - you get it right?
"Kay" - big sis
"Keyyyee" - Kelly

He's saying some other things randomly too. Despite his later onset of a consistent vocabulary, he sometimes stuns us with two syllable words and phrases like toothbrush, yes please, thank you, and others. He's totally holding out on us!

Here chicky chicky

2009-05-05T21:06:00.000-04:00

(I know! TWO POSTS in one day! WTF????)

Just wanted to tell everyone that you have 24 hours to download a coupon at Oprah.com which is good for a FREE TWO PIECE GRILLED CHICKEN DINNER for EVERY member of your family from KFC. (Includes two sides and a biscuit don't ya know!) They are promoting their new grilled chicken apparantly. The coupon has to be used during the next two weeks.

So says Oprah.

So says I.

How well do you know your partner?

2009-05-05T08:27:00.002-04:00

1. He's sitting in front of the TV, what is on the screen?
Motorcycle racing, Hockey playoffs, crime show

2. You're out to eat; what kind of dressing does he get on his salad?
Ranch

3. What's one food he doesn't like?
There is one type of seafood he doesn't like, I forget what it is. Let's see, he likes clams, escargot, mussels...oysters maybe?

4. You go out to eat and have a drink. What does he order?
Beam and Coke

What high school did he go to?
Talawanda High School in Oxford, Ohio

6. What size shoe does he wear?
10 or 10.5

7. If he was to collect anything, what would it be?
Money! (stolen answer from Christina, but totally true about my husband too!)

8. What is his favorite type of sandwich?
A really good Ruben sandwich or Italian sub

9. What would he eat every day if he could?
Ice cream

10. What is his favorite cereal?
He's not a big cereal eater, he prefers eggs

11. What would he never wear?
I don't know, he'd probably wear anything on a dare

12. What is his favorite sports team?
Detroit Redwings, Colts, IU, Ohio State

13. Who did he vote for?
O-BA-MA!!!!

Who is his best friend?
Me

15. What is something you do that he wishes you wouldn't do?
Let him be the one who gets up with the kids in the morning...almost every morning (I know!!! But in my defense, he is such a morning person and I am just...not.)

16. What is his heritage?
Hmmm...probably German, Irish, English like so many of us

17. You bake him a cake for his birthday - what kind of cake?
Carrot cake with cream cheese icing

18. Did he play sports in high school?
Hockey and track to stay in shape in the off season

19. What could he spend hours doing?
Watching TV, listening to music, playing with the kids

20. What is one unique talent he has?
He is THE most patient person I have ever met. Ever. I mean, he makes Job look hasty sometimes. I wish some of it would rub off on me, but it hasn't in 11 years.

A day in the life...

2009-03-18T17:19:00.002-04:00

Wednesday, March 18th

7:00 am Hear the kids get up; be thankful hubby gets up with them; doze off and on
wish I hadn't stayed up so late and woken up 100 times during the night

7:45 am Husband comes up to take a shower and make sure I get my butt out of bed

8:00 am Downstairs and making coffee

8:15 am Kiss hubby goodbye; decide if I want to stay awake I have to get out
of the house today

8:20 am Turn on cartoons for the kids and open the playroom. Head upstairs to clean
up and get dressed; encourage my 3 year old to get dressed and get her teeth
brushed

8:45 am Fight with my 3 year old to get dressed; wrangle my 1 year old and get him
dressed; pack the diaper bag; grab a handful of cashews and call it my
breakfast

9:00 am Truce with my 3 year old. shoes, shoes, everyone shoes! Get everyone loaded
into the car

9:15 am Drop off expired library books, drop off hubby's wallet at work; to Target
to look at bathroom accessories; Load the kids into the double stroller and
walk the mall; eat early lunch at Chic-Fil-A; browse Old Navy; back to the
car

11:30 am To the park; chase Jack around everything BUT the playground equipment;
listen to my sweet girl's laughter as she runs and plays with the other
kids

12:00 pm Heartbreak to 3 year old that we have to leave the park, but Mama knows it
is only a matter of minutes before younger brother loses his sh*$ because
he is exhausted

12:15 pm Arrive home. Shoes off, 3 year old to potty; change baby's diaper; read 2 books to baby and put him down for nap. Head downstairs to find 3 y.o.
who is playing "hide from mommy game". Find her (in her bed under the
covers)fully clothed including shoes, glasses. Take off her shoes and
glasses and jeans b/c it is too hot (or is it just me?). Read her 2 books

12:25 pm Use the bathroom. Alone.

12:26 pm Check email. Get sucked into Facebook for at least 15 minutes

12:45 pm Make phone calls for work. Schedule appointments for tomorrow and Saturday

1:10 pm Call friend and gab for a few as I unload/reload the dishwasher, sweep the
kitchen floor; pick up toys, pick up more toys, get cupcake ingredients out
and craft items together for 3 year old to make birthday card

1:35 pm Try to read book for fun

1:36 pm Hear baby cry. Wait.

1:37 pm Baby crying. Change his stinky diaper. Rock baby. Put back down. Baby
cries. Rock baby some more. Enjoy rocking the baby as I never get to
anymore. Lay him back down after several more minutes of smelling his
sweet head and reminiscing about how much he has grown

2:00 pm Answer phone

2:10 pm More work phone calls (notice baby is not sleeping and is babbling)

2:15 pm Baby is crying again. Get him up. Get him a snack.

2:20 pm 3 year old is up. Give her snack. Preheat oven for cupcakes.

2:30 pm Make cupcakes with 3 year old and try to keep baby entertained.

3:00 pm Kids playing. Get baby to write on birthday card. Have 3 year old
decorate and write her name on birthday card.

4:00 pm Clean up mess. Clean up more mess. Talk self into making spaghetti for
dinner but only b/c it is bath night for the kids. Put frosting on
cupcakes and have 3 year old add the sprinkles.

4:15 pm Talk on the phone to friend while getting stuff out for dinner. Sweep
kitchen floor AGAIN and the area where the kids' eat (Secretly eat
cupcake while hiding from kids)

5:00 pm Start dinner as hubby is working late; Intervene with kids' fighting in
playroom

5:15 pm Get kids ready for dinner. Clean up more mess. And then more again.

5:25 pm Sit down with kids for dinner.

5:45 pm Head upstairs to get work out clothing on. Then back down to get the
kids to KEEP EATING AND STOP PLAYING!

6:15 pm Hubby home. Make his plate and give him quick rundown of rule that no kids
get cupcakes if they don't eat a decent amount for dinner.

6:20 pm Work out

7:10 pm Back home. Hubby has bathed kids! (He's GREAT eh???) Finish cleaning up
dinner. Get kids and hubby cupcakes for snack. Resist the temptation to
have another one. Everyone cleans up toys!!! Get kids' teeth brushed;
Deal with cranky baby who did not take long enough nap.

7:30 pm Tired of cranky baby. Take him up to bed. Read two books. Search for
missing paci. Hubby finds one and saves the day. 3 year old watching a
cartoon before bed. Baby to bed.

8:15 pm 3 year old to bed. Daddy reads her two books. Check email and FB. Surf
web for news since I never get to watch it anymore. Finish blog

The following is My Plan for the rest of the night...Lord only knows what will really happen!

8:30 pm Type report for an hour because I HAVE to. Prepare stuff for work tomorrow

9:00 pm Get kids' clothes ready for morning as hubby has early meeting and it is
just me to get them up dressed and to sitter's by 8am.

9:15 pm READ MY BOOK

10:30 pm Get ready for bed

11:00 pm Wish I could keep reading my book....zzzzzzzzz

Oscars

2009-02-22T23:47:00.001-05:00

Seriously, is Sean Penn not THE MOST EXTRAORDINARY actor EVER????? Love him! Sorry, just had to get that out!

Boys will be boys...

2009-02-06T13:56:00.003-05:00

Sometimes pictures really do say a thousand words! (Notice the busted lip, the big scratch under his eye, the crayons up his nose, climbing on the table, and the "Al Bundy" pose)

Clearing out the cobwebs

2009-02-03T19:10:00.001-05:00

I have lots of thoughts swimming around in my head right now. Lots of random thoughts and ideas. I'm going to purge some of them into this blog to see if it will clear out some space in there. So bear with me....

1. I am doing a great job working out 3 days per week at Curves. Go me! Have you been there, ladies? They have this Curve Smart program which CUSTOMIZES your body, strength, range of motion, and goals onto a computer chip. Then you put the computer chip into each machine and it adjusts the reps, resistance, and range of motion based on YOUR body. It ramps you up as needed to make sure you never plateau. Instant feedback. Like a personal trainer with you at all times. How cool is that? LOVE it! Total accountability and kicks my competetiveness into gear as I try to make the machine give me a green light. You check your heart rate as you go along to ensure you are getting it up into the targeted area. Oh yeah, and there is this hand held thing that you hold once per month and it reads your body fat percentage so you know how much body fat you are changing into muscle. No fat-pinching calipers! AWESOME. I kind of thought Curves would be some easy going workout. Not so, not so at all. And there is a big variety of women there...moms, docs, profs, a few students, an army lady....

2. I am studying for my licensure exam. Indiana Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Big test. Lots of money to take it. Lots of money to buy study materials for it. 170 questions. Multiple choice. One wrong answer, one less likely answer, and two right answers, but I pick the "one they are looking for". Nice eh? My friends who have taken it say "it's counter-intuitive". So the answer I think it is? It's not. Great. Four hours long. Have to get a 70% to pass. Licensure allows me to bill insurance companies for services if I want to do any private practice. It also helps me with the consulting work I've been doing for Headstart. Big test. Am I nervous? Yes.

3. I want to make a bucket list. You know, a list of things I want to accomplish/experience in my life time. Do you have one? What is on it? I'll post mine later. Too busy studying for the darn test to do it...

4. Facebook is sucking away my life. Seriously. Why is it so intriguing to find out where people from your past are and how their lives turned out? Voyeurism. With permission. That's all it is. But I have to say, I have met a lot of people in my life and have lived a lot of places. I absolutely LOVE having a way to reconnect with people from my past. I swear 80% of my past is on FB now and its all happened in the past 6-12 months. Incredible. You think there really isn't anyone you are interested in finding, and then all of a sudden, everyone you've ever played barbies with, got in trouble at school with, played sports with, had slumber parties with, ditched school with, drank with, lived in a dorm with, worked a past job with, extended family you NEVER see, ...there they are. You didn't know you missed them. But you did! Are you on FB?

And grows and grows and grows...

2009-01-24T09:40:00.004-05:00

My sweet boy is almost sixteen months old. I cannot believe how fast time goes! I know I say that all the time, but REALLY, why does it have to go by so quickly? J will be 16 months on February 1st. (Yes, I am just getting his 15 month update posted!) His check up at the pediatrician went well. He is 31 1/2 inches long (50-75%) and 23 pounds, 2 oz (25-50%). J is wearing size 18 month clothes and will surely pass up his "big" sis by his second birthday! He has most of his teeth and we are just seeing the last four begin to break through this week (yay!).

Little mister loves books, trucks, and music. He also loves hats and puts everything on his head! He loves to dance and is a big flirt! It is physically impossible NOT to smile when he smiles at you; which makes teaching him not to touch certain things tricky. J is always on the go. He doesn't sit still for long! He loves to climb and Mommy has found him standing on top of the slide and on top of the table in K's room. One of J's favorite "no no" activities is standing on the couch, saying "Whooooooa" and then falling straight backwards onto his back. He thinks it's hilarious and of course, Mommy and Daddy just know he will fall off the couch so find it less humorous. When he gets mad, he gets MAD, and lets us know about it.

J loves his big sis more than anyone. He follows her around like a little shadow. He isn't saying much yet, although suddenly will say something unexpected leaving Daddy and I to look at each other like "did he just say that?"

He is a bright light in our family!!

Today is the day

2009-01-20T09:23:00.003-05:00

Dear K and J,

I have started so many posts trying to express to you the feeling I have regarding this year's election. All of them come up short; it is difficult to put some things into words. But today, I will finish the post I started back in November.

In a couple of hours, Mr. Obama will officially become our 44th President. He has inspired millions of people to take charge of not only their lives, but their families, neighborhoods, communities, and government. He is just a man, no better or worse than any other man. But he has chosen to embark on a journey that will change the lives of all of us. He has chosen to be "the one" to steer our country in a new direction. With his decision, he is sacrificing more than any of us can imagine.

He is a Daddy, and just like your Daddy, I believe his first and last thoughts of every day are about his two kids and how much he loves them. I believe that he will think of how his decisions will impact his girls and their future. I believe that Mrs. Obama prays for the health and happiness of her family every night just as your mommy does. And just like your mommy and daddy, they will make mistakes. They will likely make big mistakes. But I believe they will take responsibility for the mistakes they make and will do their best to learn from them.

He is inheriting a list of problems that Mommy can not begin to describe. They are problems we have all had a part in and we all need to take part in finding the solutions. That is our job as Americans. We need to help each other and take care of each other and notice the similarities in each other, rather than focusing on the differences.

Millions of people are in the streets of Washington. They are from all walks of life. They are standing out there in the cold, so excited to witness this historic day. And millions more of us are in our homes and offices, watching it all unfold on television.

I know you will read about this time in your history books. I know you will ask me and Daddy about it. I hope that we still feel as inspired and focused as we do today. I am so grateful that our country will be a better place for you. When he makes his speech in a few hours, I know he will remind us that this day is much less about him, and much more about YOU. And me. And all of us. Together.

One like the other

2009-01-17T10:13:00.004-05:00

I'm pretty sure my kids are going to hate these pics when they are older. But I think they are so cute dressed in the same Christmas jammies!!! I'm pretty sure next year big sis will say "absolutely not!" when I ask them to wear matching jammies for Christmas.

Words to remember

2008-12-22T14:20:00.002-05:00

One of the purposes of this blog is to chonicle the every day memories that I know will be forgotten if they are not written down. This post is more for me and my memory, so bear (bare?) with me...

K sings: "We miss you a merry Christmas, We miss you a merry Christmas, we miss you a merry Christmas and a happy new EAR!"

When talking about the bathtub, sink, or toilet drain, she calls it a "dream". "Mom! Don't let J fall down the dream!"

K still calls Mickey Mouse, "Nicki Mouse" and I LOVE that for obvious reasons.

K names all of her babies and toys. The other day Gma and Gpa Morgan left after a visit and K was picking up her toys. She told Daddy, "No Daddy, that's not Elmo...that's Gma Morgan!" (Her rake is also named Sally and her stick horse is named "Sally's daddy".)

J's vocabulary still just consists of "Maaaaaaaaaa!!!!" (and I secretly love it!)

I'm coming back

2008-12-17T00:12:00.002-05:00

My plate is full right now. Did I say full? I meant, over-freakin'-flowing right now. Thanks for asking about me. I'm still here. Just too busy and scattered to formulate a post. I promise pics and a holiday update in the coming days. In the meantime, think about your resolutions for next year. What were they for this year? Did you fulfill them? Mine were:

Go to church regularly

Exercise MOST of the days of the year

Did I meet them?

In a word......

uhhhhh...

no.

It's okay though, the year's not over. ha ha ha

I promise to get back to blogging regularly soon. I miss it. I just can't get it together enough right now. Stay tuned...

Good Parenting 101

2008-12-05T10:33:00.003-05:00

My daughter is in this picky-eater stage. After being a good eater her whole life, she is now less likely to try new foods and refusing to eat certain ones. She eats very little at meals and has been eating more at snack time, which drives us crazy. So this morning, she refused to eat her breakfast again. She asked to get down long before her belly was full and I told her that if she didn't eat her breakfast, then she wasn't getting a snack. She would have to wait for lunch and be good and hungry.

An hour later, she threw up.

Just when I thought I had some sort of clue on how to parent, I completely miss the boat, and discipline my daughter....for being sick. Feel free to nominate me for "Parent of the Year"...

Oh and don't think I show favoritism...I took J in for his second flu shot last week. As he stood in the waiting room playing with the bead table, horror struck me as I realized his pants were on backwards. And it was completely noticeable. So I had to change them around, just as the nurse called our names (of course!).

The great paci search of 2008

2008-11-30T21:55:00.002-05:00

Note: If you are at my house and cannot find a paci to calm my son, check his crib. On this day, I found no less than SIX in or around his bed.

Is it just me?

2008-11-19T07:56:00.001-05:00

Or is anyone else APPALLED by the fact that the 8 year old boy accused of murdering his father and another man was interrogated by police without a family member, counselor, or legal representation present??????

J's first hair cut

2008-11-17T21:04:00.001-05:00

Thanks to Aunt "Gigi" for giving J his first haircut this weekend. He did great and looks like a big boy now! (sniff sniff)

Miscellany

2008-11-13T15:58:00.002-05:00

Is that a word? Tim Gunn uses it, so I say "yes it is!" He is my new favorite television personality. Seriously, every morning when I open my closet I sigh, "Tim Gunn would be sooo disappointed." My clothes are atrocious (?) and if he went through them I am SURE he would throw them all out with a turn down of his nose and a swoosh of his hand.

Dear Tim,

Please pick me. I am a thirty-something mother of two who needs your help. I don't need designer, I don't need a high end bag. I am not a size six, nor am I a size ten. I am a normal size woman with a dusty house, a car full of dried out cheerios, and a closet floor littered with shoes ranging from Payless to Foot Locker. I just need.... uh....help. The kind of help that tranfers to Kohl's and Macy's because that is unfortunately, the shopping opportunities available in my town. And that is my price range.

Please pick me. I will appreciate you more than any other woman ever has. Please pick me. (Hi Greta...LOVE you!)

Your's truly,

Me

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I am happy that the Hershey's kiss bell ringing Christmas commercial is back on television. I know it is not even mid-November; I am still happy to see it. It's like an old friend.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I filled up my gas tank today...over thirteen gallons. TWENTY-SIX DOLLARS PEOPLE!! Wow.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Miscellany. It's a word. It's this post. It's my life. Full of miscellany. But I love it. It is my miscellany.

Earning His Keep

2008-11-10T18:24:00.002-05:00

J decided to earn his keep, too. Thanks for sorting those kleenex for me, babe.

Earning her keep

2008-11-08T22:56:00.005-05:00

We have a big yard. With lots of leaves on the ground. Daddy decided to break out the leaf blower to give her some help.

Cluck Cluck Cluck

2008-11-08T22:06:00.002-05:00

Tell me, how many cans of chicken, beef, or vegetable broth do you have in your pantry?

One of the funny little quirks about my husband is that he is a "stocker-upper." He comes by this honestly. As a chef, he also tends to do the grocery shopping. He is a sucker for the 10 for 10 deals at our local supermarket. He stocks up on whatever is on sale that week. As such, we have an ongoing joke about how many ketchup bottles we have in the pantry at any given time. I tend to raz him about it and he is a good sport. Truth be told, I am happy we never run out of ketchup, or mayo, canned fruit, or salad dressing.

This week I reorganized the cabinets that make up our "pantry" as it was more and more difficult to find any specific canned good. As I reorganized, I found....ummmm...lots of broth. I cracked up about it and took a picture to torture him. Before I even had time to post the pic and write this blog, we had the following conversation:

Me: What should we have Dad bring for the dressing?
Him: Bread, celery, onions, apples... and chicken broth. Have him bring some chicken
broth.
Me (laughing): I think we've got that covered don't we?
Him: We have a couple of cans, but it's the holidays, we'll use alot.
Me: Babe, we have SEVENTEEN cans of broth.
Him: What? We do not.
Me: Seriously, I counted today. And took pictures.

We also have like 11 cans of tomato products and 11 cans of beans. Just in case. If there is an emergency, feel free to come over. We're covered.

Love you babe! ;)

Today is the day

2008-11-04T13:30:00.002-05:00

And I am a nervous wreck. Perhaps it is the disturbing dreams I've had all week, or the venti Starbucks latte from this morning...but my stomach is in knots and my hands are almost shaking. Today is election day. I have never been so nervous about an election in all my life, even when I was nominated for Junior Class Homecoming Princess. (ha ha ha)

Why the heck don't all states have early voting? We voted two weeks ago and thank goodness! We took the kids and were allowed to vote by paper ballot so that we didn't have to wait in the hour long line (Thank you election worker lady!). K wasn't sure what it meant to go vote, and asked if the "vote would be in the water?" LOLOL Well, I sure wish I could drop some people's votes into the water, but no, sweet girl, a vote is not like a boat at all. Even though they sound alike. We tried to explain to her what an important right, no RESPONSIBILITY, voting is. It is a responsibility and a right that we take for granted. This year, I think people are pausing to think about their right to vote and what it means.

What an historic day. A warm, sunny, 75 degree day today here in Indiana. A day where a black man is on the ballot for the highest office in our nation. A day where a woman is on the ballot for the second highest office in our nation. It makes me teary just thinking about it. A day that I hope you will take seriously enough to use your voice and cast your vote.

I have been an Obama supporter since 2004 and am PRAYING that the American people will support his cause for change. We are on our way to better days! Go Obama!

A princess and her prince

2008-11-03T22:02:00.004-05:00

Fall fun

2008-10-29T21:13:00.004-04:00

Birthday pics

2008-10-29T21:05:00.004-04:00

A little late, but better than never right?

Happy Birthday, Son!

2008-10-08T09:58:00.002-04:00

To my sweet boy,

You turned one last week and I can just now compose myself enough to write to you. My week was an emotional roller coaster, filled with happy tears and moments of pride. You, K, and Mommy and Daddy celebrated together on Wednesday and then we had family and friends over for a big party on Saturday.

This year has flown by! You have grown so much and I cannot believe twelve months ago you were snuggled into my chest and could be carried around in one arm. Now you are on the move all the time, but aren't quite ready to take those first steps yet. We don't push you as Mommy is fine with you staying little for a little while longer. Sigh. Don't hurry too fast, baby. In a few minutes you will be running away from us...making your own path in the world. And every time you look back, we will be here waving to you.

You don't like being contained and go go go! Travelling in the car is getting trickier as you only last 20 minutes or so. It should make our holiday travels interesting. You are off the bottle now and feed yourself almost anything. You are a great eater and like fruits, veggies, meats, and grains. Yay! You are a big fan of Mickey Mouse and Handy Manny. And everyone who knows you knows that you love all things with wheels. You pretend things have wheels even when they don't. You are getting very interested in books and really enjoy the ones with the little flaps to open and close. You also love music and like to shake your legs and dance! You are a big fan of your big sis and follow her around all day long. She loves you right back and spends her days making you laugh. You also love love love your Daddy and are forever watching him to see what he is doing. You cry sometimes when he leaves for work because you would rather us all be together all day long. And so would we.

You are Mommy's boy. And I wouldn't change one moment of our time together. I have only known your face for the past year, but you have always lived in my heart. I knew you there long before you ever opened those beautiful blue eyes. We've had a wonderful year together and I can't wait to see what next year brings!

I love you, sweet.

Love, Mommy

Our story

2008-09-19T10:53:00.005-04:00

Five years ago, my fiance and I made the trek to the Outer Banks of North Carolina to get married. It took us a long time to get there, and I'm not talking about the drive to North Carolina. :)

Do you know our story? Well here is the "quick and dirty" version: D and I met while we both worked at a retirement community. He was the chef and I was the social worker. We were part of a "group" of young troublemakers...er..I mean progressives, working there among management that was old, outdated, and set in their ways. A few months after working there, I was in a terrible car accident. A truck ran a red light and T-boned my car. I went to the ER in pretty bad shape, but nothing life threatening. My jaw was broken in two places and I had to have it wired shut to heal. It was the best weight loss technique EVER! :) Anyway, I survived on liquid vitamins, Carnation Instant Breakfast shakes, soups, and Jello. D was very sweet and used to puree up peaches and other foods for me so that I had "variety" in my diet, at least for lunch. Very sweet. We started dating a few months later.

He was in a very bad motorcycle accident a few years later. He was laid up for weeks. After he healed, we took a cruise together to Belize. One night, the night of the Captain's Gala, we were all dressed up and went for a walk on the upper deck. It was there that he proposed. Beneath millions of stars and right in the middle of my favorite place, the ocean.

Halfway through our wedding plans, I got a little freaked out. Nothing seemed to "fit" right for us. So, one night while freaking out, my dear fiance asked me, "If you could get married anywhere, where would it be?" And I said, "the ocean." The plans for the big church wedding that never seemed to fit for us stopped. And the plans for a wedding on the beach for just us, our parents and siblings, and closest friends began.

And five years later here we are. We have wonderful children, good health, fabulous friends, great jobs, and a beautiful home. I am lucky to be married to my best friend and my children have the world's best daddy!

Thank you, honey, for such a wonderful life. I love you!

Part II

2008-09-12T08:15:00.001-04:00

No words needed

2008-09-12T08:11:00.002-04:00

Ah-ha moments

2008-09-11T18:10:00.005-04:00

I thought I heard muffled cheers of glee as I said goodbye to my kids this morning, reminded them to be good listeners for Daddy and take it easy on him....

"Vacation....all I ever wanted!"

2008-09-09T22:18:00.003-04:00

"Vacation...have to get away!" (Go Bangles!)

Sigh. I already miss it. Especially the ocean. And the way my kids' faces lit up when they saw the ocean. I have tons of stories and tons of pics. But I am too lazy to tell you any right now. I promise to download some pics soon!

I will tell you that after driving 14 hours during the night, we arrived to Destin to find out that your's truly locked the storm door on our house back in Indiana. I was soo good at arranging dog sitters, providing keys, instructions, emergency contact info. And then, I locked the friggin' storm door. My dog sitters all had keys to the front door, just couldn't get to it. (Our house is 40 years old and every door has a separate key...how annoying!)

Oh yeah, and that was AFTER our credit card got declined at 2am in the middle of Alabama after we filled up on gasoline. (Can't complain too loudly though. Thank you Chase Visa for putting a hold on our card as soon as they realized that we 1. never used it at a gas station before 2. never used it in Kentucky or Tennessee before. We got that cleared up quickly while we played phone tag with several friends back home who were trying to break into our house. (Know what? We have a SECURE FRIGGIN' HOUSE!)

We finally got that figured out (thanks to several handy friends who figured out how to get it open without breaking it and without us paying a locksmith!) but had to wait two hours to get into the beach house. With two tired and cranky kids. And 90 degree heat. And two tired and cranky parents.

The good news is that the rest of the week went FABULOUSLY as we bounced from one coast of Florida to the other in between Hurricanes Gustav and Hanna. We spent hour upon hour on the sugar sand beach which was literally across the street and hours at the pool which was right outside our cabana house door. (K called it our "Cabama house"... isn't that cute?) The wedding was BEAUTIFUL and we are thrilled for our dear sister and her husband.

And yes, K got to spend 24 hours at her dear Mac's house in Jacksonville. I'm not sure what she talks about more, playing at Mac's house or the ocean. Thanks to Mac and family for their hospitality! And thanks to Jenn G, the Irwin's and the Wickens' for being such great friends as to give up their Saturday morning to help get into our house so our dog could pee!

Look... I told you some stories anyway, didn't I! I'm such a chatterbox. I will download pics soon. We got some great shots of the kids!

"Leavin'... on a jet plane"

2008-08-29T09:35:00.003-04:00

Okay. It's too expensive to fly right now. So, we are "Leavin'... in a Ford Escape..." It still kind of works right? We are heading to Destin, Florida for my sister in law's wedding (yay!). Unfortunately, Hurricane Gustav is putting a wrench in it all, but we are staying positive. My SIL changed her wedding from Monday to Saturday and then we will likely have to evacuate.

We are also visiting K's first love, Mac. His mama posts over on "It's all about ME". He and K met at our "school" that my friend Kelly runs. K and Mac. They are two of a kind. She doesn't understand geography yet, so all she knows is that "Mac left on a plane with his mommy, daddy, and baby Eli to live in Florida." So, she thinks that when she wakes up tomorrow in Florida, we will see him. Well, that's not exactly how it will be. She will have a great time at Aunt Nana's wedding, the first one she has ever attended. She is very excited about that, too!

Oh yeah, and my dear, dear friend Kelly is having her baby. (She posts over at "Shades of Gray") Seriously. Like any minute. I am awaiting her news from her doc's appointment. I hate that we will miss her baby girl's arrival, and cannot wait until I get to snuggle her and smell her sweet baby smell. Ahhhh... babies.

Of course, I can't post without mentioning the BRILLIANT speech by Barack Obama last night. Did you stay up and watch it? If you didn't, watch it online. It is worth it. Believe me. An historic night and an historic speech. Made me feel very inspired and patriotic. Go USA!

Well, off we go!! With a 3 year old, 11 month old, and a hurricane on the way. There are bound to be a few stories to share when I return!

New Neighbors

2008-08-22T14:42:00.003-04:00

While NOT washing dishes this morning, I noticed this moving object in our little pond at the end of the waterfall. It was a turtle! I got K and J and went out to welcome our new friend. (K was totally disinterested, as she is with all things that crawl). Then, as I was getting ready to download pics of our new neighbor I noticed something walking near our woods. I thought it was a cat, and then looked closer and found these two babies! Their mama was just off to the left, but not in the picture. The one looking directly at the camera saw me as I quietly walked out onto the upstairs balcony to snap a picture. I quietly said, "Well, hi there beauty". And I am not kidding. She wagged her little tail. Do deer wag their tails? Well this one did! So now I call these my beauties and will have to make sure there are some scraps out there for them to eat.

It's like a friggin' petting zoo over here. I love it! Maybe I could start charging admission?

Warning: Hard hat area

2008-08-18T13:48:00.004-04:00

One of the things we love the most about our "new" house is the big deck out back and all the old trees around. We've encountered a new situation where we dress one way when we are at home, and then have to peel off a layer to go elsewhere. There are so many trees that it easily feels ten degrees cooler here than other places.

One of the downsides is that we have a large family of squirrels who feast on all the bounty of our backyard. We have an old hickory nut tree that shades the deck. It has large, round, green hickory nuts. Our deck is LITTERED with nuts. The squirrels are up in the tree, eating all the nuts and our deck becomes their crumb catcher. Which is kind of disgusting when you think about it. Also, while foraging the nuts, they drop them below, creating a large banging on the deck, chairs, table, etc. Seriously, one dropped into the little pond and it sounded like someone did a cannonball into it.

D cleans it off with the leaf blower, only to find the "crumbs" have returned within a few hours. It is so bad that I won't let the kids out and play back there for fear they will get BONKED on the head. Those nuts are hard and have to hurt when they are dropped from the top of that tree!

Oh yeah, and Molly eats the broken nuts and then throws up later. Joy joy!

An unexpected gift

2008-08-17T09:16:00.003-04:00

Just when we thought it was impossible to love our children just one drop more....

They slept until 8am on a Sunday morning.

Glory be! We woke up BEFORE our children this morning. I know! Can you imagine? If only they would make THIS a habit...

Thank you sweet children. Mommy and Daddy have been exhausted all week from staying up far too late into the night watching the Olympics. Today we are well rested. We know it won't last, but today, TODAY we are well rested.

It takes a village

2008-08-14T19:58:00.004-04:00

Hey all you mamas and papas/ aunties and uncles/ grandparents/ caregivers/ etc. out there reading this blog! What is your current parenting struggle?

We all struggle...during every stage, during every milestone, heck, during every DAY!

"It takes a village"....

"We are all in this together"...

"Insert your own cheesy battle cry here"....

Let's share them with each other! For me, parenting can be so isolating. Most of my friends are parents/aunties/uncles/cousins/caregivers/etc, yet we rarely tell each other what we are REALLY struggling with. Kids are hard. Damn hard. At least mine are. And I know your's are too. What are you and your kid/kid equivalent struggling with these days?

Here are mine:

With K, still trying to get the #2 in the potty. EVERY SINGLE FRIGGIN DAY. Also have begun the wonderful world of "why?" and it's beautiful sister "the world of backtalk". Seriously. If I hear myself say "Stop talking back to me (what is a better way to phrase that? I think it confuses her)." To which I get the response ".... why?" I am gonna scream. Oh wait. Already did that.

With J, he is in the anxiety separation stage. He is doing well overall, but if mama is in the room, mama needs to be holding him. At least in his view. I mean sobs, big crocodile tears, sounds that make you think surely there must be a wasp in his diaper, and then if I pick him up... Nothing. Not even a reminent (?) of a tear. Complete calm. Sometimes I think maybe I IMAGINED the earlier tantrum it is gone so quickly

On being an Olympian...

2008-08-11T21:00:00.004-04:00

Are you watching the Olympics? Bob Costas just did (another!) piece on Michael Phelps, swimmer extraordinaire. Michael Phelps spends FIVE hours a day in the water on a typical day. He consumes...get this...between EIGHT AND TEN THOUSAND calories per day to "try" and break the 200 pound mark. His typical breakfast consists of three fried egg and cheese sandwiches, grits, french toast and chocolate chip pancakes and I am CERTAIN I've left out at least two other foods he mentioned. For breakfast.

Heh. F**k Richard Simmons, I gotta get a pool....

Weight loss update

2008-08-07T12:27:00.005-04:00

Hidy ho! I'm still doing it! It's been about ten days and things are going well. Not perfect, but I managed to survive two birthday celebrations, a night of pizza and pasta with friends, a fast food meal, and a minor injury this past week. I was a little "gung-ho" about the exercise piece last week and managed to strain some muscles in my middle back. I know. Go figure. Tip: Don't do this- Not exercise regularly for a long time, do minimal stretching, and then hop on an elliptical machine with some funky beat music three days in a row and see what happens. Nobody ever said I was the brightest bulb in the bunch. :)

I am back on track now and feeling good. I don't feel like I am dieting at all (b/c I am not). Just making subtle changes and I have to say, it is working! My energy is up and I am sleeping better.

Have you heard of Jennette Fulda? She wrote a book called "Half-Assed: A weight loss memoir". I stumbled upon her book at my local Barnes & Nobles a few weeks ago. It's great! She lost like 200 pounds. What a pleasant surprise to find out she is from this area (Indy). She's also been making the morning news show rounds too...so that's been exciting to see. She blogged throughout her weight loss and maintenance. And she's just a normal person.

If you've ever had "weight issues" I'll tell you, I have yet to find a paragraph in her book that I couldn't relate. Or even just self-esteem issues (who hasn't?). I added her to my blog roll over on the right.... she is "Half of me". Check it out! She rocks!

Happy Birthday K!

2008-08-04T22:26:00.004-04:00

Three years ago, at this time, Mommy and Daddy were sleeping. Around 1:30 am, Mommy woke up with a sudden "popping" feeling and a gush of water. Mommy threw her arm over Daddy and said frantically "My water just broke!" You weren't due for another four weeks.

There were quite a few twists and turns along the way, and Mommy is not just talking about the road to the hospital. Mommy will tell you all the details another day. The most important part of this story is:

At 3:44 am, the doctor took you out of Mommy's belly. You were very, very tired, and had changed your mind about being ready to come out into this big, big world. But out you came! And after a few rubs, some pats, and lots of prayers, you took your first breath. A big girl breath, followed by a big scream! It was the best sound Mommy and Daddy had ever heard.

And now three years later, you still like to do things in your own time. You change your mind alot and definitely have a strong will. You love to sing, you love to dance. You love to play "mommy and baby". You love to read books. They are by far your favorite thing. You love making up stories. Especially about you and your friends going on adventures. Every story you read, every story you tell, they all end with happy endings.

YOU are my happy ending, sweet girl. I waited a lifetime for you. I waited another lifetime to hear your first gasp for air and your beautiful voice scream. I still listen to you breathe every night before I go to sleep. I still wake up every morning to the sound of your beautiful voice.

Thank you for being a fighter. Even when we struggle with each other, I am always, ALWAYS thankful you are a fighter. Always fight for your life. It is your's and no one else's. Thank you for sharing it with me.

Happy Birthday, K!

Love,

Mommy

Ballerina girl

2008-08-04T22:22:00.001-04:00

Am I really going to post this?

2008-07-27T15:53:00.004-04:00

This is a hard post for me to write. But I will write it. I am forcing myself to share it. Saying it "out loud" makes it real. And I need it to be real. Not for you to hold me accountable, but for ME to be accountable and ask for support.

I need to lose 59 pounds.

Nope. It's not a typo.

Fifty-nine. (Which I have to say sounds much easier than sixty (gasp!))

I'm not sure how it happened, but somewhere throughout the past (too many) years, I have managed to totally disregard my body. Along the way, my self-confidence has taken a nosedive, my mood is more often crappy than not, and my general outlook is much suckier (yep, suckier!) than what is normal for me.

While pregnant with Jack, I had gestational diabetes. I was terrified about it's impact on him and did very well managing my blood sugar with diet alone. I went to the class provided by my local hospital, learned how to check my blood sugar and learned all about simple sugars, complex carbohydrates, protein, blah blah blah. Basically, no more fast food and Coca-Cola. And no more meals of pasta, bread, sugary dessert, and uh...food coma anyone?

Throughout the end of my pregnancy and post pardom, I lost thirty pounds. Yep. Thirty. I felt AWESOME. I've unfortunately gained alot of that back. Which is too bad b/c it would be much less intimidating (and embarassing) to have posted "I need to lose 29 pounds". But I am looking forward, not back and am no longer in the "contemplative state". I have moved into the "Get off my ass and do it state."

As you have probably read, I have recently had some health issues. While they aren't necessarily related to my weight, being overweight certainly doesn't provide any help. Nothing like two surgeries in two weeks to get you thinking about the "big picture" and re-prioritizing. So it is time.

I am ready for this.

I don't plan on posting the ins and outs and ups and downs in detail here, but will post general progress updates. Feel free to share your wisdom, inspiration, positive feedback, and comments as I go along this journey.

Maybe sending some positive "get off your ass" vibes would be helpful too....

Marketing idea

2008-07-21T19:09:00.004-04:00

Biter biscuits are such a lovely little convenience. They keep your teething baby occupied for at least ten minutes. They are soothing to gummy little whiners who need to fulfill their need to bite bite bite. I think they should at least throw in a few handiwipes in the box.

You should see the highchair.

Fun and games

2008-07-17T12:49:00.006-04:00

My daughter is fast approaching three. Like, in two and a half weeks. While three brings along its own challenges, it also brings along so much fun.

K loves playing games. Hide and seek, tag, Candyland, Memory. And games we make up, like "tickle". Last night, while we were laying in bed telling stories, I incorporated a "poke" into the story. You know, the main character had a stick and poked the mysterious object. So I reached over and poked her in the rib. She giggled hysterically and said, "Don't poke me, Mommy!" Which of course, made me poke her more. Her laugh is an infectious as her baby brother's, so I began laughing hysterically as well (and we were both very tired!). Then we stopped so we could finish the story.

While I quickly summed up the mysterious object mystery, she reached over and gave me a poke in the arm. She said, "Poke." Why is this so funny? (I know, those of you reading are probably saying, "It's not.") But to me, it was hilarious. Even now, I am laughing about it. She is so funny. This morning, she asked to play the poke game again. "C'mon Mommy! Let's play POKE!" Everything is a game. Everything gets a laugh.

My husband posted this video on his blog, "cooking with kids". In case you missed it, check it out.

There is nothing like this sweet, sweet laughter. We are lucky enough to get to hear this every single day. If I could bottle it, I would be a millionaire.

Big smiling boy

2008-07-08T20:44:00.005-04:00

J had his nine month checkup this morning. How is this possible? How can that kicking, hiccuping, up all night, heartburn causing, sob inducing sweet baby boy have been out of my belly for NINE MONTHS already? Time really does go by too fast. In a heartbeat I will be waving to him as he heads off to Kindergarten with his backpack in hand. Ho hum. Not yet, sweet boy, not just yet.

J is 29 inches tall (50-75th percentile) and weighs 20 pounds, 4 ounces (50th percentile). He started crawling last Monday, right across the playroom to Grandma M. He hasn't stopped since. He crawls to a destination, and promptly wants to stand up. When he stands up, he wants to be walking around. Are you getting the picture? Another first is that while crawling across the rug to ME ME ME, he said "ma ma ma". Sob. I know! Isn't that wonderful? Okay, it could be the pain meds, it could be PMS, it could just be being a Mommy. Anyway, it was beautiful.

He eats small pieces of soft foods now. Like real green beans and carrots, not the pureed kind. Daddy is still making him all kinds of yummy, healthy foods. In the freezer now are rice, pork, chicken, navy beans, beets, sweet potato, apples, peaches, peas, green beans, carrots...he loves it ALL. He eats noodles, crackers, cheerios, bananas. He drinks water out of his sippy cup, but isn't quite convinced he should drink an entire serving of milk out of one yet.

He is still as happy-go-lucky as ever. He is seriously the sweetest baby I have ever known. His teething (he has six showing!) makes him a little grumpy from time to time, but overall he is just so good. So easy to smile. So easy to giggle. My little lump of sweet. That's my nickname for him, "sweet". (Said in a nice mommy-way, not in an obnoxious South Park way)

It's hard to believe this was him just a few months ago, sitting in his car seat on the patio of our old house, taking in some fresh air on the day we came home from the hospital. My sweet.

Papa was a Rollin' Stone...

2008-07-07T16:32:00.003-04:00

There are a lot of songs with "stone" in it.

I am home again resting after the second lithotripsy. Last week's surgery went different than expected, as the surgeon found a stone imbedded in the right ureter, so had to take it out. Then, he broke up the stone in the right kidney and put a stint in. Recovery was, well, not as easy as I had hoped. My plan to return to work on Tuesday ended up being a return to work on .... Saturday.... if that tells you anything.

So this morning I went back in to have the stint removed from the right side and the left kidney stone broken up. He put a stint in the left side. fun fun My expectations are more realistic and I don't plan on being worth much at all until Thursday/Friday. Hopefully knowing what to expect will help my week go a little smoother.

Thanks for all your thoughts/prayers/emails/phone calls! They've helped tremendously!

And a big, fat THANK YOU to Mrs. K for keeping my kids extra last week and this week. I cannot tell you how much easier surgery/recovery is when I know that my kids are safe, happy, and with someone they love! (And who loves them right back!) You are truly the sister I never had!

Rolling stones

2008-06-27T22:59:00.002-04:00

Update:

I am having lithotripsy (?) on Monday afternooon to blast the one in the left kidney. I will likely have the one in the right kidney blasted the following week. It's outpatient, no big deal, but I will go under general anesthesia. I can go back to work the following day as long as I am off pain meds (which I should be). The good news is that I passed the one from yesterday, at least I think I did b/c I have been without pain meds since early this afternoon! Yay! Please send positive thoughts/prayers my way if you can! Thanks!

Water anyone?

2008-06-26T20:50:00.005-04:00

As I approached the small town about 20 miles south of here this morning, I began having this dull ache in my lower back. I often have lower back pain in part due to poor posture, in part due to the way I sleep, in part due to my, uh, not-so-small chest size. It remained in my lower back but also moved around to my lower abdomen too. The nagging turned into sharp, twisting pain and my mind began racing as I thought "What IS this? Appendicitis? Muscle spasms? Food poisoning?" Walking around, stretching, taking an antacid, taking Ibuprofen, NOTHING was helping and it was getting worse.

I called D and told him I was cancelling my appointment and driving back home because something was wrong. I called the mother of my client, explained that I had to return home and I, or someone, would call later to reschedule the evaluation. As I drove home, the pain became unbearable. I pulled over to the side of the highway, turned on my hazard lights, and vomitted. Can I just say, that if you see a car with hazards on parked on the side of the highway, GET OVER IN THE LEFT LANE. I was amazed at the audacity of people flying by me, just feet away from my open door and my head hanging out, at 70 miles per hour. Gimme a break, people!

I called D again and told him to just meet me at the ER as that's where I was headed. He said, "Is it a kidney stone?" Ahhhh, yes. That must be it! I vaguely remembered the same pain/vomitting/nightmare one early winter morning when I was 23. I was at D's apt after a night of partying and we had had a huge ice storm. I was in so much pain, I left his apt and drove/slid my car down the hill to the ER, where I promptly vomitted on my new winter coat.) A kidney stone! I thought to myself, "Please just let it be a kidney stone" b/c I knew that while this was the most pain I was likely to ever experience, it would be easily fixed. Just. Get. To. The. ER. Fast. Do. Not. Crash. Your. Car. On. The. Way.

He called me 10 minutes later to check on me and was at the ER waiting. I pulled into the ER parking lot, opened the car door, and vomitted again. Too much information? Sorry.

Lo and behold, I was determined to have a kidney stone. Actually, Three. I was passing one that was too far down to see on the CT scan, and there are two more - one in each kidney. When the doc showed me the CT scan, I thought I was looking at bilateral tumors on my kidneys. Nope. Just stones....7 mm long. That's BIG people. HUGE.

So, after some IV naseau medicine, a nice shot of Dilauded, I was headed back home. Dan got me tucked into bed, set me up with my water, water, more water, pain meds, and a strainer next to the toilet to pee through (to catch the micro pieces of sand that are kidney stones).

Tommorrow I am off to the urologist. We have to come up with a "plan of action" to deal with the two tumors, uh, I mean stones that have yet to come out of my kidneys. Gotta love the hard water down here! (The "experts" say that the fact that our whole county is built on a limestone quarry has nothing to do with the insurgence of kidney stones in our local community. All I know is that I know of no less than six people in my close circle of friends who had kidney stones before the age of twenty-five. Coincidence? I don't think so....)

Have you had one? OMG. Drink more water!

Carnival pics

2008-06-17T00:32:00.006-04:00

It was K's first time on a ride outside of the Stuart Little car in the mall. I was nervous for her but she did great! She even gave me the look like "Gaaaawd Mom. Stop waving at me. You are so embarassing!" She played it cool as only she can, and gave into a few smiles here and there and said "I yuvvved it!" when we asked if she had fun. J hung out in the stroller and took a loooong nap. So I have fewer pics of him. Next year, big man! Next year! I posted two blogs tonight so keep reading....

Summer fun

2008-06-17T00:24:00.004-04:00

It's been a fun time at our house this past week. We've been swimming in the back yard, hangin' out on the deck and visited the local carnival this weekend.

Pure fluff

2008-06-11T23:01:00.003-04:00

Reason number 48237 that I KNOW I got it right when I chose my husband:

http://www.cookingwithdanoskids.blogspot.com/

Can I get a canoe and oars please?

2008-06-07T22:38:00.003-04:00

Yep, that's us. Right there on CNN.

I was working in a distant town this morning ... about 1.5 hours from home. I knew the typical low-lying areas would be flooded as I headed east. We've had tons of rain and already had flooding issues earlier in the week. The next county over, a beautiful tourist destination, is always the first to flood around here. And we live very close the the county line. I made it halfway there and called D to ask about the looming clouds that appeared to be ahead. He checked the radar online and reported, just rain, no big deal. (We've had tornado sirens here 3 out of the past 7 days/nights so I was worried about severe weather) When I made it to the town, there were a few interesting detours as there was more flooding than I was aware, but I made it safely to my destination: a nursing home just outside of town. While heading to the nursing home, I had to get through a couple of "not so easy" puddle areas and was thankful for my SUV. I called D upon my arrival and told him that the evaluation I was conducting would take a couple of hours and it was quite possible that I would get stranded in that nursing home for a few hours b/c some of the roads were flooded and it was pouring buckets outside. No big deal. I'd wait it out.

A few hours later, everyone in the building shared stories about roads closed, Indianapolis flooding, the National Guard using tanks and Humvees to get people from their homes due to dams breaking. A pharmacist managed to make it to the facility and when I heard he was leaving, I asked to follow him. (He was from the area and was in a sedan, so I knew if he could make it through, I could for sure in my SUV) As we ran into road closure after road closure, I ended up separating myself from him as I remembered what side roads I had accessed earlier to get through. When I ran into the main road I had used earlier, it looked like the mighty Mississippi. Seriously. I gasped when I saw people helping other people get their kids out of houses that were flooded beyond waist high water. It was scary and surreal.

I managed to find my way back to the nursing home, just beyond the road closure and headed east towards Ohio. Completely the opposite direction from home. Meanwhile, I was talking to my husband on the cell phone asking him to watch the news and let me know what roads I could access from there. He looked and looked and found no news coverage. Anywhere. I had the radio on and kept hearing about all the closing around Indianapolis, but they weren't covering much about where I was currently or where I was trying to get to.

Eventually, I got to a small town that led me back to the interstate and back to the same town, but on the other side. I was worried it would be closed, but hooray! It was open and I headed back home. About 10 miles later I was stopped as I approached another city. Cars backed up for miles and people walking around talking about flooding. So I turned around and backtracked. I headed south on another highway b/c what the heck else was I gonna do?

I called D again and he still had no idea what I was talking about. No news coverage. It was sunshiney and happy at our house. As I continued wandering around Indiana in a strange state of confusion, worry, and annoyance, it occurred to me that all this water in Indianapolis must be impeding my ability to get home as well.

Finally, my mom calls me b/c she lives not terribly far away and she had trouble getting through to her home. She saw on the news that our county was under a state of emergency as were all of the places I had told her I was working this morning. Finally! A contact with the outside world!

To make a long story, well, it's too long to call short at this point, I finally made it home by accessing my city from the south. About the only road open. Had I left that town a little earlier, I am quite certain I would be stranded in another town, along with the flooded streets, hotels, schools, stores, and hospital. And where do you go in a situation like that? Away from home? When city streets are suddenly drowning in 3 feet of water?

As I am watching the coverage on the news, it occurs to me that my annoying situation which cost me about an extra $20 in gas and 3 hours in time, could have been much, much worse.

(And our house is fine. We live on top of a very large hill, and while there is a creek behind our house, it is at the bottom of a large ravine that would take (as my husband put it) "a flood of biblical proportion" to get to our house, I bet lots of those people who lost homes today thought the same thing at some point.) It was such a strange thing to see. I thought the flooded "mighty Mississippi" street was just a fluke thing, but now I see it was practically state wide. The water came on so suddenly and with the dams breaking, I am sure there will be loss of life. That's heartbreaking and please take a moment to keep those in your thoughts and prayers.

I hope you are all well out there. And if you live where I do, stay close and take it from me NO DRIVING outside of our little city!

Money!!

2008-06-05T03:47:00.003-04:00

Five years ago I started this consulting job and gasonline was around $1.65 per gallon. I clearly remember it passing $2.00 per gallon and saying to my former boss, "I'll need more money for gas mileage since it is so high now." Ha. She didn't give me more for another 6 months and now my job doesn't reimburse me mileage at all. It is supposedly "built in" the payment I receive on each report. Yeah. A load of crap. It was "built in" as of 1 1/2 years ago when gas was high, but not FOUR FRIGGIN' DOLLARS per gallon. ho hum.

It has filtered down to groceries and the few cents here and there that I scoffed at six months ago has now turned into anxious panic. Seriously. D often does the grocery shopping for us. I went for the first time in about a month last weekend. OMG. I was floored at how much everything has increased. When I went out to my car (which I filled up for $53) I seriously felt anxious.

I am taking unecessary trips in the car less, piling up errands so that I do them all at once rather than over a period of days, we eat at home a lot more, and are making a few other changes here and there.

I assume we are not the only ones feeling the crunch of the nose-diving dollar. What are you doing to save money/cut costs?

Neglect and Purpose

2008-06-01T14:31:00.003-04:00

One thing about blogging is as you experience funny/unusual/scary/interesting things in your day to day life, you often think "Oh! I'm going to blog about that!" Then, it never happens. At least for me. Sorry I haven't been blogging much, I haven't felt very inspired lately.

Do you ever feel like there is something missing? From your life, I mean? I have been feeling that way. A sort of unsettled nervousness, like I should be getting ready to go somewhere or do something, but am not sure what it is.

Perhaps it is this age (33), but I have been feeling unfulfilled lately. I mean, I am so thankful and blessed for my beautiful, healthy, and big-hearted children. I get to stay at home with my kids 5 1/2 days per week, a luxury I know most women do not have. I am lucky enough to say I am still in love with my husband, after being married for five years and together for ten (WOW! Can you believe that, honey?). I am furtunate to have a flexible job where I can do most of my work sitting up here on the balcony of my bedroom during naptime or after the kids go to bed. It pays me well and I do enjoy it, especially meeting all the people.

Yet, there is still something gnawing away at me. I feel like I am supposed to be doing something different. I worry that in a blink of an eye, my kids will be grown, and I will be left wondering why I hadn't taken the time to figure out my "purpose". A journey I don't want to necessarily begin when I am fifty.

I am trying to quiet my mind right now. Take some time away from my work, my kids, the tv, music. See if I can hear the voice that tells you where you should go and what you should be doing.

Does anyone know what I am talking about here? Has anyone found anything that has helped them center their lives a little more?