---------------------------------------
Still waiting for part of my Christmas gift to my downstream secret pal to arrive. I blew it. I hope she understands.
---------------------------------------
Christmas socks.
Wood stairs.
Moving too fast.
Fall down stairs.
Go boom.
GIANT bruise on my rear (and oddly numb spot...which worries me).
Thanking lucky stars I wasn't carrying the baby.
See...I CAN look at the bright side even if I look ridiculous "sitting crooked" (as Sam has deemed the one-cheek sitting pose).
---------------------------------------
Sam was completely and totally spoiled. And Myles...I was certain we already had all the baby toys there were to have (from spoiling Sam)...But it seems there are still more out there.
---------------------------------------
I really enjoyed the giving of gifts this year. I gave Steve and Sam a "six pack" of Indians tickets. And the toys...so many toys...so much fun.
---------------------------------------
Facebook Yoville to PC Sims...it's a slippery slope. And it is very odd that despite my sister's assurances that "they can't do that," Angela (the girlfriend) stole baby Beau...just picked him up and carried him off without looking back. Very strange.
---------------------------------------
I ate way too much food and may not need to eat again for a couple of weeks.
---------------------------------------
My brother's fiancee has a little boy who is six years old. He is absolutely darling and he and Sam became fast friends. Sam, who was already adorably excited about having a cousin to play with, is beside himself.
---------------------------------------
I miss my grandparents this time of year because we used to spend every Christmas with them. I tried to find ways to incorporate them into our celebrations...but it just wasn't the same. Life creates such bittersweet moments.
---------------------------------------
My sister does not like to have her picture taken. I don't know why. She's beautiful. And I don't even take goofy pictures of her like our dad takes of me.
---------------------------------------
Despite having eaten too much food and enjoying the gift giving, my feelings can still be hurt by a careless comment.
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Friday, December 26, 2008
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Thank you Secret Pal!
A fabulous arrival on my doorstep today! Two GORGEOUS Rosewood crochet hooks, the latest issue of Interweave Crochet, a snowman mug with hot cocoa and candy canes, and a snowman tin filled with the YUMMIEST cookies (already three fewer)!
Thank you so much! And Happy Holidays to you!
Monday, December 22, 2008
It's an office job
Is the office important to you? How important?
My job is a job. I like it well enough, but my identity is not as defined by my work as my husband's is. It's an odd sort of situation to be in, trying to understand his desire to drive an hour in low-visibility snow and 21 degree winds to an office (when, as I understand it, the majority of his work can be done via computer from home).
Truth be told, I don't understand it. It makes me quite cranky, in fact. I am incredibly thankful to have a vacation day today whereas he does not seem at all deterred by roads that are described on the news broadcasts as "treacherous." AND he seems to think it humorous that I worry about his safety. It perplexes me. (Of course, he is equally perplexed by my temper tantrums over the lack of help with household chores...or the lack of "thank you" in this house.)
I guess it's true...men ARE from Mars...where it is snowy and cold and they are crazy stubborn.
My job is a job. I like it well enough, but my identity is not as defined by my work as my husband's is. It's an odd sort of situation to be in, trying to understand his desire to drive an hour in low-visibility snow and 21 degree winds to an office (when, as I understand it, the majority of his work can be done via computer from home).
Truth be told, I don't understand it. It makes me quite cranky, in fact. I am incredibly thankful to have a vacation day today whereas he does not seem at all deterred by roads that are described on the news broadcasts as "treacherous." AND he seems to think it humorous that I worry about his safety. It perplexes me. (Of course, he is equally perplexed by my temper tantrums over the lack of help with household chores...or the lack of "thank you" in this house.)
I guess it's true...men ARE from Mars...where it is snowy and cold and they are crazy stubborn.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Friday, December 19, 2008
My grief resume
Sometimes I read the blogs of new deadbabymama's and there is so much I want to say. Reassurances and cautions...hopes and warnings.
I've been where you are. I have navigated the path. And even if my choices are not your choices and you must blaze your own trail, there are things that are common...even for individual grief.
But I don't.
Instead, I offer, "I hope you find what you're looking for," or, "Be kind to yourself."
Because it isn't my place. I'm not qualified to offer anything.
I still cry. Not every day. But more often than before.
Before. I hate that word.
I AM happy. I have a LOT of happiness in my life. Maybe if I keep telling myself that, I won't feel the emptiness quite so deeply in those two spaces in my heart that happiness does not touch.
And then maybe I'll be qualified to say something.
I've been where you are. I have navigated the path. And even if my choices are not your choices and you must blaze your own trail, there are things that are common...even for individual grief.
But I don't.
Instead, I offer, "I hope you find what you're looking for," or, "Be kind to yourself."
Because it isn't my place. I'm not qualified to offer anything.
I still cry. Not every day. But more often than before.
Before. I hate that word.
I AM happy. I have a LOT of happiness in my life. Maybe if I keep telling myself that, I won't feel the emptiness quite so deeply in those two spaces in my heart that happiness does not touch.
And then maybe I'll be qualified to say something.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
SP Question #2
Part A: Are you doing any holiday knitting?
Nope. Doing SOME crocheting, but only snowflakes. I don't do well with pressure and so I have decided to let myself off the hook for the holidays.
Part B: Have you finished?
Finished the snowflakes...yes.
Nope. Doing SOME crocheting, but only snowflakes. I don't do well with pressure and so I have decided to let myself off the hook for the holidays.
Part B: Have you finished?
Finished the snowflakes...yes.
Of interest
Exhale
A Literary Magazine for Intelligent People Who Have Lost a Baby, Or Have Trouble Making Babies in the First Place.
Exhale is a unique new literary magazine written for & by ordinary people who have faced extraordinary obstacles to getting/staying knocked up, or who have experienced miscarriage and/or stillbirth. Exhale is published solely online.
Exhale is a space for creative expression. We seek out the gritty humor and
complexities of discovering that producing a child isn't as easy as your mother told you. Without succumbing to the belief that a person's self-worth and happiness are defined reproductive achievement, we recognize and validate the vast array of perspectives and emotions associated with pregnancy/infant loss and infertility issues.
A Literary Magazine for Intelligent People Who Have Lost a Baby, Or Have Trouble Making Babies in the First Place.
Exhale is a unique new literary magazine written for & by ordinary people who have faced extraordinary obstacles to getting/staying knocked up, or who have experienced miscarriage and/or stillbirth. Exhale is published solely online.
Exhale is a space for creative expression. We seek out the gritty humor and
complexities of discovering that producing a child isn't as easy as your mother told you. Without succumbing to the belief that a person's self-worth and happiness are defined reproductive achievement, we recognize and validate the vast array of perspectives and emotions associated with pregnancy/infant loss and infertility issues.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Brain overload
It took me three tries to get everything packaged into the holiday package for my Secret Santa.
I've been to the store several times and always drive up the driveway when I get home and say, "Poor Santa, I forgot to buy a lightbulb for him again." (the giant plastic Santa on our front porch was knocked over during a wind storm and his light bulb stopped working)
It took me two hours to write the statement of the case in the appellate brief I'm working on today (never mind the seemingly endless misspellings and grammatical errors contained therein).
I forgot to eat my yogurt for breakfast and my apple with my lunch.
I had Steve mail Christmas cards...except he couldn't mail ONE because it didn't have any postage on it...no idea why. (Sorry Cynthia...it will get there eventually, I promise.)
I only have a bit more "Christmas stuff" to accomplish before the actual day...but I have two hearings and the aforementioned appellate brief due as well.
I'm afraid my brain may explode.
I've been to the store several times and always drive up the driveway when I get home and say, "Poor Santa, I forgot to buy a lightbulb for him again." (the giant plastic Santa on our front porch was knocked over during a wind storm and his light bulb stopped working)
It took me two hours to write the statement of the case in the appellate brief I'm working on today (never mind the seemingly endless misspellings and grammatical errors contained therein).
I forgot to eat my yogurt for breakfast and my apple with my lunch.
I had Steve mail Christmas cards...except he couldn't mail ONE because it didn't have any postage on it...no idea why. (Sorry Cynthia...it will get there eventually, I promise.)
I only have a bit more "Christmas stuff" to accomplish before the actual day...but I have two hearings and the aforementioned appellate brief due as well.
I'm afraid my brain may explode.
What is wrong with us?
Steve: Yeah, they should make holiday cards that say, "While I neither confirm nor deny the existence of a supreme deity, if one does it exist, I hope it blesses your holiday celebrations."
Me: A bit wordy, but I love it.
Steve: You are so going to blog this aren't you?
Me: A bit wordy, but I love it.
Steve: You are so going to blog this aren't you?
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Thank you Carly
My heartfelt thanks to Carly at To Write Their Names in the Sand for the beautiful images she makes available (see my sidebar).
Remembering Hannah
Please take a moment and go visit CLC as she remembers her daughter today on her first birthday.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Holiday meme
1. What time do you get up on x-mas morning? Not really early. Probably about 8am.
2. What do you want for Christmas? Camera accessories
3. What was the last film you saw at the movies? Just saw Bolt today! Loved it!
4. Will you watch the Lions on Thanksgiving? Nope
5. What do you usually have for x-mas breakfast? I usually make eggs and bacon.
6. Where will you be on Thanksgiving? We had Thanksgiving here at our house at our big dining room table. It was great!
7. What food do you dislike on the Holidays? Dislike? food?
8. Is all of you x-mas shopping done yet? nope...one more.
9. Real or fake x-mas tree? fake...don't want the cat issues that come with real ones.
10. Gift or Gift card? gifts...if you're going to give a gift card you might as well just give cash.
11. Favorite x-mas song? I have two...The Christmas Guest performed by Reba McEntire or Mary Did You Know? performed by Kathy Mattea
12. Favorite x-mas gift of all time? I honestly have NO idea
13. Would you ever Regift? yep
14. Favorite x-mas dinner? Christmas Eve...pizza. Christmas...don't really care by that point.
15. Do you go to the bar on thanksgiving eve? No
16. Favorite x-mas movie? Miracle on 34th Street
17. Are you a Grinch or a Santa? Santa!
18. How many x-mas parties are you going to? one
19. Person you expect to send this back first? no expectations at all
20. Christmas Eve or Christmas Day? Christmas Day...Christmas morning, to be exact.
21. Do you go to Church for x-mas? no
22. What is your slipper size? 9/10
23. Have you ever gotten a pet for x-mas? no...and I hope I never do
24. What's your star sign? Aquarius
25. What was your best Christmas from when you where little? They were all pretty much the same...traveling to see family out of state...nothing really stands out.
26. Where will you be for x-mas? at home
27. What is your favorite candy? chocolate!
28. What is your favorite x-mas cookie? jam thumbprints or sugar cookies
29. Thanksgiving or Christmas? Christmas
30. Candy Canes or Chocolate Santas? Candy canes
31. Favorite Holiday Drink? pumpkin spice latte for Thanksgiving and peppermint mocha for Christmas
32. Wrap gifts or bag them? wrap...unless they're odd shaped...I'm not going to kill myself trying too hard.
33. Does your family do x-mas stockings? yes
34. If you were a reindeer, which would you be? Blitzen
35. How is the weather right now? cold but clear
36. How many people do you shop for at x-mas? lucky thirteen, if you don't count the secret santa exchanges. if you do, sixteen.
37. Favorite mall to shop at? Millcreek Mall, Erie, PA
38. Favorite restaurant? Outback Steakhouse
39. Do you like snow? YES! I wouldn't live here in the Great Lakes snowbelt if I didn't.
40. What was your favorite toy as a child? Sally, the baby doll, when I was little. Merlin when I was older.
41. Summer or winter? I look awful in shorts and swimsuits...so definitely winter
42. Hugs or kisses? Nothing like a good hug
43. Chocolate or Vanilla? Chocolate!!!
44. Coffee or tea? Coffee!!!
45. Ski or Snowboard? Ski...I really need to get back out this year
46. When was the last time you went sledding? 2005, I think.
47. Where do you hide gifts that you buy? In the basement
48. What did you do last night? played on the computer
49. Snow Boots or Cute Boots? snow boots can be cute...you just have to look for them
50. Salty or sweet? sweet!!!
51. How many kids in your family still believe in Santa? all of them, that I know of.
52. Favorite Holiday Show? How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
53. Hot Cocoa or a Cold Beer? Cocoa...with marshmallows!
54. How many days will you get off for x-mas? I've got five days of vacation, one personal day, and I think I've still got some sick time I can take.
55. Red or Green? Red
56. How many people will you send this to? I'll blog it!
57. How many will respond? Probably nobody...but if you're so inclined, post this one to your own blog. It's fun! I promise.
Edited to add some from what mom sent me...
When do you put up the tree? The weekend after Thanksgiving
When do you take the tree down? After the New Year sometime
Do you like eggnog? yuck! no!
Hardest person to buy for? my brother's fiancee (I don't really know her)
Easiest person to buy for? my son
Do you have a nativity scene? yes, though it is safely tucked away in the basement
Mail or email Christmas cards? this year I managed mail!
Worst Christmas gift you ever received? Grandma used to give us some doozies. I'll have to compile a list.
When do you start shopping for Christmas? Black Friday!
Lights on the tree? white
Travel at Christmas or stay home? after traveling for all my childhood years, it is so nice to stay home with my own kids.
Can you name all of Santa's reindeer? of course!
Angel on the tree top or a star? we have an angel...but she is taking a vacation this year. too many cat and baby issues with the tree to risk her health.
Open the presents Christmas Eve? except the ones from Santa.
Most annoying thing about this time of the year? the hostility it seems to bring out in some people.
Favorite ornament, theme or color? My ornaments with my boys' names on them.
Favorite tradition in your house? Pizza party Christmas Eve at my parent's house.
2. What do you want for Christmas? Camera accessories
3. What was the last film you saw at the movies? Just saw Bolt today! Loved it!
4. Will you watch the Lions on Thanksgiving? Nope
5. What do you usually have for x-mas breakfast? I usually make eggs and bacon.
6. Where will you be on Thanksgiving? We had Thanksgiving here at our house at our big dining room table. It was great!
7. What food do you dislike on the Holidays? Dislike? food?
8. Is all of you x-mas shopping done yet? nope...one more.
9. Real or fake x-mas tree? fake...don't want the cat issues that come with real ones.
10. Gift or Gift card? gifts...if you're going to give a gift card you might as well just give cash.
11. Favorite x-mas song? I have two...The Christmas Guest performed by Reba McEntire or Mary Did You Know? performed by Kathy Mattea
12. Favorite x-mas gift of all time? I honestly have NO idea
13. Would you ever Regift? yep
14. Favorite x-mas dinner? Christmas Eve...pizza. Christmas...don't really care by that point.
15. Do you go to the bar on thanksgiving eve? No
16. Favorite x-mas movie? Miracle on 34th Street
17. Are you a Grinch or a Santa? Santa!
18. How many x-mas parties are you going to? one
19. Person you expect to send this back first? no expectations at all
20. Christmas Eve or Christmas Day? Christmas Day...Christmas morning, to be exact.
21. Do you go to Church for x-mas? no
22. What is your slipper size? 9/10
23. Have you ever gotten a pet for x-mas? no...and I hope I never do
24. What's your star sign? Aquarius
25. What was your best Christmas from when you where little? They were all pretty much the same...traveling to see family out of state...nothing really stands out.
26. Where will you be for x-mas? at home
27. What is your favorite candy? chocolate!
28. What is your favorite x-mas cookie? jam thumbprints or sugar cookies
29. Thanksgiving or Christmas? Christmas
30. Candy Canes or Chocolate Santas? Candy canes
31. Favorite Holiday Drink? pumpkin spice latte for Thanksgiving and peppermint mocha for Christmas
32. Wrap gifts or bag them? wrap...unless they're odd shaped...I'm not going to kill myself trying too hard.
33. Does your family do x-mas stockings? yes
34. If you were a reindeer, which would you be? Blitzen
35. How is the weather right now? cold but clear
36. How many people do you shop for at x-mas? lucky thirteen, if you don't count the secret santa exchanges. if you do, sixteen.
37. Favorite mall to shop at? Millcreek Mall, Erie, PA
38. Favorite restaurant? Outback Steakhouse
39. Do you like snow? YES! I wouldn't live here in the Great Lakes snowbelt if I didn't.
40. What was your favorite toy as a child? Sally, the baby doll, when I was little. Merlin when I was older.
41. Summer or winter? I look awful in shorts and swimsuits...so definitely winter
42. Hugs or kisses? Nothing like a good hug
43. Chocolate or Vanilla? Chocolate!!!
44. Coffee or tea? Coffee!!!
45. Ski or Snowboard? Ski...I really need to get back out this year
46. When was the last time you went sledding? 2005, I think.
47. Where do you hide gifts that you buy? In the basement
48. What did you do last night? played on the computer
49. Snow Boots or Cute Boots? snow boots can be cute...you just have to look for them
50. Salty or sweet? sweet!!!
51. How many kids in your family still believe in Santa? all of them, that I know of.
52. Favorite Holiday Show? How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
53. Hot Cocoa or a Cold Beer? Cocoa...with marshmallows!
54. How many days will you get off for x-mas? I've got five days of vacation, one personal day, and I think I've still got some sick time I can take.
55. Red or Green? Red
56. How many people will you send this to? I'll blog it!
57. How many will respond? Probably nobody...but if you're so inclined, post this one to your own blog. It's fun! I promise.
Edited to add some from what mom sent me...
When do you put up the tree? The weekend after Thanksgiving
When do you take the tree down? After the New Year sometime
Do you like eggnog? yuck! no!
Hardest person to buy for? my brother's fiancee (I don't really know her)
Easiest person to buy for? my son
Do you have a nativity scene? yes, though it is safely tucked away in the basement
Mail or email Christmas cards? this year I managed mail!
Worst Christmas gift you ever received? Grandma used to give us some doozies. I'll have to compile a list.
When do you start shopping for Christmas? Black Friday!
Lights on the tree? white
Travel at Christmas or stay home? after traveling for all my childhood years, it is so nice to stay home with my own kids.
Can you name all of Santa's reindeer? of course!
Angel on the tree top or a star? we have an angel...but she is taking a vacation this year. too many cat and baby issues with the tree to risk her health.
Open the presents Christmas Eve? except the ones from Santa.
Most annoying thing about this time of the year? the hostility it seems to bring out in some people.
Favorite ornament, theme or color? My ornaments with my boys' names on them.
Favorite tradition in your house? Pizza party Christmas Eve at my parent's house.
Merry Agnostic Christmas ( a small rant)
I am a bit tired of the guilt trips that seem to accompany the holiday season these days.
spend less on Christmas gifts...
spend more time with your children...
go to church...
bake cookies...
Bah humbug!
I don't question or comment on anyone's decisions how to celebrate their holidays...so I really wish they wouldn't look down their nose and question mine. Everyone has their own traditions...some I think are beautiful, some I think are silly, and some I think are downright ugly and awful. But my opinions stay my opinions. I have no need to give someone even a passing thought/worry that I might dis/approve.
I will celebrate this holiday the way I see fit for myself and my family. I will say "Happy Holidays" instead of "Merry Christmas" if I want to. I will acknowledge the beliefs of my Jewish friends if I want to. I will acknowledge the beliefs of my pagan friends if I want to. And I'll spend however much I want on presents and food and decorations (I work hard for my money and I will spend it how I see fit).
If I want a magical Santa to visit my house, then Santa will visit. If I want my kid to sit on Santa's lap for a cute little picture, I REALLY don't want to hear about how Santa is probably a pedophile getting his jollies in an inappropriate way.
I will BUY premade cookies...and I don't need a reason other than I want to.
Yes, my family knows I love them without buying gifts. But I enjoy buying them gifts...it is FUN. Remember fun?
So I'm less faithful. Laying on guilt isn't going to change it.
I used to enjoy the holidays. Now I just can't stand all the moral judgments that come along with them. Live and let live...EVERY day.
spend less on Christmas gifts...
spend more time with your children...
go to church...
bake cookies...
Bah humbug!
I don't question or comment on anyone's decisions how to celebrate their holidays...so I really wish they wouldn't look down their nose and question mine. Everyone has their own traditions...some I think are beautiful, some I think are silly, and some I think are downright ugly and awful. But my opinions stay my opinions. I have no need to give someone even a passing thought/worry that I might dis/approve.
I will celebrate this holiday the way I see fit for myself and my family. I will say "Happy Holidays" instead of "Merry Christmas" if I want to. I will acknowledge the beliefs of my Jewish friends if I want to. I will acknowledge the beliefs of my pagan friends if I want to. And I'll spend however much I want on presents and food and decorations (I work hard for my money and I will spend it how I see fit).
If I want a magical Santa to visit my house, then Santa will visit. If I want my kid to sit on Santa's lap for a cute little picture, I REALLY don't want to hear about how Santa is probably a pedophile getting his jollies in an inappropriate way.
I will BUY premade cookies...and I don't need a reason other than I want to.
Yes, my family knows I love them without buying gifts. But I enjoy buying them gifts...it is FUN. Remember fun?
So I'm less faithful. Laying on guilt isn't going to change it.
I used to enjoy the holidays. Now I just can't stand all the moral judgments that come along with them. Live and let live...EVERY day.
Friday, December 12, 2008
Frugal Friday
CVS
9 bags Hershey's
1 bag GummiSavers
1 Theraflu warming
2 Maybelline lipgloss
1 xmas generic post-its
1 candy can ink pen
1 bag gummy worms
1 photo travel mug
---------------------
$20.79 spent
$38.09 saved in coupons
$3.99 Theraflu rebate pending
Walgreens
1 impulse buy small gift for friend
1 crock candle
6 rolls Scotch gift wrap tape
2 Jane blushes
---------------------
$10.86 spent
$10.77 saved
$2 Scotch tape rebate pending
Tip for this week - Instead of allowing Sam to buy worthless junk at the school's Santa shop, I took him to the Dollar Store and he found decent gifts for everyone in the family without breaking the bank. AND he found gifts for his school Christmas party gift exchange. AND I found perfect gifts for my secret santa exchange at work. AND we bought Christmas wrapping paper and bows for all our Christmas packages. This really stretched our budget much farther than I thought possible. And we discovered that our store even has a frozen food section...if you need to stretch your grocery dollar.
9 bags Hershey's
1 bag GummiSavers
1 Theraflu warming
2 Maybelline lipgloss
1 xmas generic post-its
1 candy can ink pen
1 bag gummy worms
1 photo travel mug
---------------------
$20.79 spent
$38.09 saved in coupons
$3.99 Theraflu rebate pending
Walgreens
1 impulse buy small gift for friend
1 crock candle
6 rolls Scotch gift wrap tape
2 Jane blushes
---------------------
$10.86 spent
$10.77 saved
$2 Scotch tape rebate pending
Tip for this week - Instead of allowing Sam to buy worthless junk at the school's Santa shop, I took him to the Dollar Store and he found decent gifts for everyone in the family without breaking the bank. AND he found gifts for his school Christmas party gift exchange. AND I found perfect gifts for my secret santa exchange at work. AND we bought Christmas wrapping paper and bows for all our Christmas packages. This really stretched our budget much farther than I thought possible. And we discovered that our store even has a frozen food section...if you need to stretch your grocery dollar.
homework lessons
Me: Do you have your folder?
Sam: Yeah.
Me: Did you turn in all that homework you needed to turn in from when you were sick last week?
Sam: Yeah.
Imagine my surprise when I get home and see (strewn all across the dining room table) said homework. I mean, it wasn't even hidden where you could miss it!
I call Steve...
Steve: Hi!
Me: Explain to me how you two walked past all this homework all over the dining room table in order to get out of the house and still it didn't manage to get INTO the bookbag and turned in at school.
Steve: Wait a minute...When we were leaving the house this morning, I asked Sam if he had his folder and he said yes. I specifically asked him if he had all the homework he needed to turn in and he said yeah.
Me: So he lied to you?
Steve: Seems that way.
Me: He lied to me too. When I picked him up from school I asked him if he had turned in all that homework and he said yes.
Steve: I just don't know what to say.
Me: Why did you lie to your father and me about the homework?
Sam: I don't know.
Me: Did you think we wouldn't see it all over the dining room table?
Sam: Mommy, I just forgot.
Me: No...you didn't forget. You were reminded and you said you did something that you never did. That's lying. Why didn't you turn in the homework? Why lie about it?
Sam: My mind was just playing tricks on me.
Me: Oh, don't give me that (crap). Go get the homework, right now, and put it in your bookbag...and TURN IT IN TOMORROW. No privileges for a week.
(shortly later)
Sam: Mommy, how many days is a week?
Me: Seven.
Sam: awwwww maaaaan!
(shortly after that)
Sam: Mommy, I don't understand why I even have to GO to school...I mean...I don't LIKE it.
Me: (stifling a laugh) Because you have to learn things so you can grow up and work for NASCAR like you say you want to. You can't do that if you don't know math...or how to read and write...or science stuff.
Sam: (sigh)
Other than Steve freaking out about some work thing last night, it was so peaceful without television or playstation or computer. I had time to crochet! Admittedly, there is a bigger mess of toys in the house this morning from all the "active" play...but I really don't mind because the kid is gonna clean it up anyway (evil laugh).
Sam: Yeah.
Me: Did you turn in all that homework you needed to turn in from when you were sick last week?
Sam: Yeah.
Imagine my surprise when I get home and see (strewn all across the dining room table) said homework. I mean, it wasn't even hidden where you could miss it!
I call Steve...
Steve: Hi!
Me: Explain to me how you two walked past all this homework all over the dining room table in order to get out of the house and still it didn't manage to get INTO the bookbag and turned in at school.
Steve: Wait a minute...When we were leaving the house this morning, I asked Sam if he had his folder and he said yes. I specifically asked him if he had all the homework he needed to turn in and he said yeah.
Me: So he lied to you?
Steve: Seems that way.
Me: He lied to me too. When I picked him up from school I asked him if he had turned in all that homework and he said yes.
Steve: I just don't know what to say.
Me: Why did you lie to your father and me about the homework?
Sam: I don't know.
Me: Did you think we wouldn't see it all over the dining room table?
Sam: Mommy, I just forgot.
Me: No...you didn't forget. You were reminded and you said you did something that you never did. That's lying. Why didn't you turn in the homework? Why lie about it?
Sam: My mind was just playing tricks on me.
Me: Oh, don't give me that (crap). Go get the homework, right now, and put it in your bookbag...and TURN IT IN TOMORROW. No privileges for a week.
(shortly later)
Sam: Mommy, how many days is a week?
Me: Seven.
Sam: awwwww maaaaan!
(shortly after that)
Sam: Mommy, I don't understand why I even have to GO to school...I mean...I don't LIKE it.
Me: (stifling a laugh) Because you have to learn things so you can grow up and work for NASCAR like you say you want to. You can't do that if you don't know math...or how to read and write...or science stuff.
Sam: (sigh)
Other than Steve freaking out about some work thing last night, it was so peaceful without television or playstation or computer. I had time to crochet! Admittedly, there is a bigger mess of toys in the house this morning from all the "active" play...but I really don't mind because the kid is gonna clean it up anyway (evil laugh).
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Busy busy busy
The past few days have been crazy busy at work, and it doesn't look like it's going to let up anytime soon. I generally do not have so many court appearances scheduled so close together, so it's been an interesting time trying to juggle my cases, prepare for Christmas, and manage all the illnesses that keep visiting our house. I have found that I can survive quite well on five hours of sleep a night...and lots of coffee (Hershey mint truffle kisses also help quite a bit).
Monday, December 08, 2008
Laughter is the best medicine
I was going to blog about being sick again (third time since Halloween), but found this gem and thought it a good bit more interesting than my whining. I just don't even know what to say...I'm laughing too much.
Friday, December 05, 2008
Miscellaneous thoughts
----------------------------------------
The screen dares me to write something...anything...but the words don't come. I can only find these little bits and pieces to share. I'm not sure what the problem is...but I'm hoping a trip to BlogHer in July will shake things loose again. Until then, you'll have to live with the bits and pieces.
----------------------------------------
Sam has taken to saying, "Oh shit," when things don't go his way. Damn it all to hell.
----------------------------------------
I'm wearing lipstick! It's taken more than two years, but I'm finding some fun in makeup and jewelry and pretty clothes again. It's weird.
----------------------------------------
There is this whole "new" group of deadbabymamas in the blogosphere. It disturbs me.
----------------------------------------
I got a new cell phone for (early) Christmas. Now I just have to figure out how to work it.
----------------------------------------
Christmas shopping is kicking my butt. I still have so many gifts to get...not to mention the handful I'd like to MAKE. And I'd really love to bake some cookies this year. There may not be enough time to get it all done...we'll see.
----------------------------------------
I have so much work to do. And I was handed two tax valuation cases this week. The fun never ends!
----------------------------------------
Did you see the White House sent out invitations to a Jewish Holiday reception? with a drawing of a horse-drawn carriage delivering a Christmas tree on the front? I swear, I'm going to miss this President if only for the endless laughter he provided.
----------------------------------------
Thanks for all your suggestions and comments. We did get the transport filled and Macy and her puppies will be on their way to rescue this Saturday (and hopefully a much better life with people who love them).
----------------------------------------
Daisy made it through her oral surgery and, despite being about ten teeth lighter, is quite a happy little camper snarfing up her vet-ordered soft food this week. I'm going to have to post pics of her soon...maybe after she gets a good grooming. She is such a pretty old girl.
----------------------------------------
Sam went Christmas caroling with Cub Scouts at a local nursing home the other day. Prior to that he didn't know what a nursing home was. Nor did he know any lyrics to any Christmas carols (or so he said...I KNOW he knows Jingle Bells). We made a half dozen handmade Christmas cards to hand out (crafty mom enjoyed that bit...but forgot to take pics...sorry)...and he had fun. So I guess we can declare success all around.
----------------------------------------
I really really wish the gal in the office next to me would pick up her feet when she walks. The shuffling is getting on my nerves.
----------------------------------------
This is how great of a parent I am the fourth time around. I still haven't sent away for Myles birth certificate. I JUST noticed that I never actually PAID for Myles' life insurance. Nice. I'm sure there are all kinds of Freudian implications hidden in there...but really...I just feel like a slug for not having done them. Off to correct that problem...!
----------------------------------------
Did I show you this picture yet? Yes, like his brother before him, Myles has discovered the joy of playing in the dogs' water bowl.
At least my floors will be clean during this phase.
----------------------------------------
The screen dares me to write something...anything...but the words don't come. I can only find these little bits and pieces to share. I'm not sure what the problem is...but I'm hoping a trip to BlogHer in July will shake things loose again. Until then, you'll have to live with the bits and pieces.
----------------------------------------
Sam has taken to saying, "Oh shit," when things don't go his way. Damn it all to hell.
----------------------------------------
I'm wearing lipstick! It's taken more than two years, but I'm finding some fun in makeup and jewelry and pretty clothes again. It's weird.
----------------------------------------
There is this whole "new" group of deadbabymamas in the blogosphere. It disturbs me.
----------------------------------------
I got a new cell phone for (early) Christmas. Now I just have to figure out how to work it.
----------------------------------------
Christmas shopping is kicking my butt. I still have so many gifts to get...not to mention the handful I'd like to MAKE. And I'd really love to bake some cookies this year. There may not be enough time to get it all done...we'll see.
----------------------------------------
I have so much work to do. And I was handed two tax valuation cases this week. The fun never ends!
----------------------------------------
Did you see the White House sent out invitations to a Jewish Holiday reception? with a drawing of a horse-drawn carriage delivering a Christmas tree on the front? I swear, I'm going to miss this President if only for the endless laughter he provided.
----------------------------------------
Thanks for all your suggestions and comments. We did get the transport filled and Macy and her puppies will be on their way to rescue this Saturday (and hopefully a much better life with people who love them).
----------------------------------------
Daisy made it through her oral surgery and, despite being about ten teeth lighter, is quite a happy little camper snarfing up her vet-ordered soft food this week. I'm going to have to post pics of her soon...maybe after she gets a good grooming. She is such a pretty old girl.
----------------------------------------
Sam went Christmas caroling with Cub Scouts at a local nursing home the other day. Prior to that he didn't know what a nursing home was. Nor did he know any lyrics to any Christmas carols (or so he said...I KNOW he knows Jingle Bells). We made a half dozen handmade Christmas cards to hand out (crafty mom enjoyed that bit...but forgot to take pics...sorry)...and he had fun. So I guess we can declare success all around.
----------------------------------------
I really really wish the gal in the office next to me would pick up her feet when she walks. The shuffling is getting on my nerves.
----------------------------------------
This is how great of a parent I am the fourth time around. I still haven't sent away for Myles birth certificate. I JUST noticed that I never actually PAID for Myles' life insurance. Nice. I'm sure there are all kinds of Freudian implications hidden in there...but really...I just feel like a slug for not having done them. Off to correct that problem...!
----------------------------------------
Did I show you this picture yet? Yes, like his brother before him, Myles has discovered the joy of playing in the dogs' water bowl.
At least my floors will be clean during this phase.
----------------------------------------
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
Going to be one of those days
Locked me keys in the car this morning while at the vet's office dropping off the "foster dog" for oral surgery. At least I didn't lock HER in too, right?
Keep your fingers crossed that the surgery goes well for her and rest of the day goes more smoothly for me. Thanks.
Keep your fingers crossed that the surgery goes well for her and rest of the day goes more smoothly for me. Thanks.
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
Dog rescue transport?
Dear internets...
Do you know anybody along this route who might give up an hour or two on Saturday afternoon to help transport a mama lab and her little puppies to rescue?
Youngstown, OH
Pittsburgh, PA
Somerset, PA
Breezewood, PA
Hagerstown, MD
Thanks!
Do you know anybody along this route who might give up an hour or two on Saturday afternoon to help transport a mama lab and her little puppies to rescue?
Youngstown, OH
Pittsburgh, PA
Somerset, PA
Breezewood, PA
Hagerstown, MD
Thanks!
Monday, December 01, 2008
THE look
I just got "that" look from Myles...the one I've seen a million times on Sam's face...the one that says, "Who me?!?! I'm not doing anything bad...I promise."
I suspect he was teasing the cats.
And now I'm pretty sure I'm in for a boatload of trouble with this one.
I suspect he was teasing the cats.
And now I'm pretty sure I'm in for a boatload of trouble with this one.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Home for the holidays
I hope you have all had a lovely weekend. Here are some highlights from our weekend...
The obligatory family Thanksgiving dinner picture. No fancy dishes here (note the plastic mixing bowl in the middle of the table?)...maybe when the boys are a little older and their mother is a little less clumsy (ha...like that will ever happen).
Some people enjoy football...here is our annual Thanksgiving lightsaber battle.
Yes, this is our house. Yes, we decorated in what my family calls "Grandma style." Yes, that is a large plastic light up Santa. Yes, I love it.
This is one of four cats in our house...IN our Christmas tree. Good thing we decorate with toddler-proof ornaments and decorations.
This is the man I love. The father of my children. He keeps me smiling.
And I think the previous picture explains this one.
The only photo you will see of Myles with any kind of Santa. He has decided he does not care for the jolly old elf. In fact, I'd venture a guess that he kinda hates him...he screams bloody murder whenever he sees him...even this fake plastic version (which makes us giggle quite a bit).
This is what it's like to celebrate the holidays around here. Pretty, but half the ornaments belong to little people who aren't here.
The obligatory family Thanksgiving dinner picture. No fancy dishes here (note the plastic mixing bowl in the middle of the table?)...maybe when the boys are a little older and their mother is a little less clumsy (ha...like that will ever happen).
Some people enjoy football...here is our annual Thanksgiving lightsaber battle.
Yes, this is our house. Yes, we decorated in what my family calls "Grandma style." Yes, that is a large plastic light up Santa. Yes, I love it.
This is one of four cats in our house...IN our Christmas tree. Good thing we decorate with toddler-proof ornaments and decorations.
This is the man I love. The father of my children. He keeps me smiling.
And I think the previous picture explains this one.
The only photo you will see of Myles with any kind of Santa. He has decided he does not care for the jolly old elf. In fact, I'd venture a guess that he kinda hates him...he screams bloody murder whenever he sees him...even this fake plastic version (which makes us giggle quite a bit).
This is what it's like to celebrate the holidays around here. Pretty, but half the ornaments belong to little people who aren't here.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Frugal (Black) Friday
I scored some great deals on my Black Friday shopping trip, but I can't post about them because they're all gifts for people who may read this here blog and I don't want to spoil the surprise. :o)
I did manage one great deal...$32 worth of Revlon cosmetics for $4.91. I just love my coupons!
I did manage one great deal...$32 worth of Revlon cosmetics for $4.91. I just love my coupons!
SP question #1
Since we've just had Thanksgiving here in the US, I'm wondering what everyone is most thankful for this year.
That's easy. My boys (the two kidlets and the big guy too). This year has been amazing and I am so so so thankful for their smiling faces...even if "boys are gross." (lol)
That's easy. My boys (the two kidlets and the big guy too). This year has been amazing and I am so so so thankful for their smiling faces...even if "boys are gross." (lol)
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
7:52pm Thanksgiving eve
And the time-honored tradition of families everywhere continues...
"I am NOT going to put up with the two of you nit-picking at one another for the next four days. If you don't behave, you will lose Star Wars, TV, computer...everything that makes life fun. You will wish you were in school instead of home with me."
(taking a bow for my mom who is laughing and applauding at the moment she reads this)
"I am NOT going to put up with the two of you nit-picking at one another for the next four days. If you don't behave, you will lose Star Wars, TV, computer...everything that makes life fun. You will wish you were in school instead of home with me."
(taking a bow for my mom who is laughing and applauding at the moment she reads this)
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
yuck
Do you know what I ate yesterday?
two poptarts
a dozen peppermint lifesavers
a handful of cheetos
two corndogs
two handfuls of cheezits
three tacos
two dozen malted milk balls
a beer
a glass of wine
Not a fruit or vegetable to be seen. I feel sick just thinking about it...
I have decided that my diet will change dramatically immediately following Thanksgiving. It has to. No excuses.
two poptarts
a dozen peppermint lifesavers
a handful of cheetos
two corndogs
two handfuls of cheezits
three tacos
two dozen malted milk balls
a beer
a glass of wine
Not a fruit or vegetable to be seen. I feel sick just thinking about it...
I have decided that my diet will change dramatically immediately following Thanksgiving. It has to. No excuses.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Dear customer service
Dear Gerber: I love the convenience of those little plastic baby food containers with the snap on lids. I will not, however, be buying them again until you make them out of recyclable plastic. I think it's a little more important to preserve the planet for my son's future as it is to be able to conveniently carry his baby food anywhere I go. Also, we live near a landfill (too near)...we know where those things go. Would it really cost that much more to use recyclable plastic?
Dear customer service guy who called me on the phone and, when told I couldn't afford to buy another warranty on the 2005 Caravan I hate, asked me, "Well if you can't afford the warranty, how are you going to afford it if it breaks down?" I DON'T KNOW! This is something I worry about late at night and I don't appreciate you adding to my worry stress level. Also (as I said), I don't need to argue with you about it. You're not my husband (didn't say that) and I don't owe you and explanation. If you have some brilliant ideas about how I can afford to buy your plan and still pay for the $85 worth of groceries I need this week, I would LOVE to hear them.
Dear customer service guy who called me on the phone and, when told I couldn't afford to buy another warranty on the 2005 Caravan I hate, asked me, "Well if you can't afford the warranty, how are you going to afford it if it breaks down?" I DON'T KNOW! This is something I worry about late at night and I don't appreciate you adding to my worry stress level. Also (as I said), I don't need to argue with you about it. You're not my husband (didn't say that) and I don't owe you and explanation. If you have some brilliant ideas about how I can afford to buy your plan and still pay for the $85 worth of groceries I need this week, I would LOVE to hear them.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Frugal Friday
Walgreens:
2 boxes 108-count puffs
1 bag chex mix
2 holiday activity books (stocking stuffer)
--------------
spent $0.96
saved
CVS:
5 similac ready-to-feed
2 4-packs AA Duracell
2 2-packs C Duracell
--------------
spent $35.70
saved
received $15 extra care bucks
Grocery:
Spent $94.81
Saved $51.99
CVS:
4 Glade candles
1 184-count Huggies wipes refill pack
--------------
Spent $1.69
Saved $19.66
Grocery:
Duncan Hines cake mix
Duncan Hines frosting
Pillsbury Savorings
2liter Diet Pepsi
2liter Sierra Mist free
--------------
Spent $4.26
Saved $5.79
CVS:
Six 110-count boxes of Kleenex
--------------
Spent $1.07
And I almost forgot! With fuelperks, I paid $0.759/gallon for gas this week!
2 boxes 108-count puffs
1 bag chex mix
2 holiday activity books (stocking stuffer)
--------------
spent $0.96
saved
CVS:
5 similac ready-to-feed
2 4-packs AA Duracell
2 2-packs C Duracell
--------------
spent $35.70
saved
received $15 extra care bucks
Grocery:
Spent $94.81
Saved $51.99
CVS:
4 Glade candles
1 184-count Huggies wipes refill pack
--------------
Spent $1.69
Saved $19.66
Grocery:
Duncan Hines cake mix
Duncan Hines frosting
Pillsbury Savorings
2liter Diet Pepsi
2liter Sierra Mist free
--------------
Spent $4.26
Saved $5.79
CVS:
Six 110-count boxes of Kleenex
--------------
Spent $1.07
And I almost forgot! With fuelperks, I paid $0.759/gallon for gas this week!
Miscellaneous thoughts
--------------------------------------
On the spot creative mommy thinking for this week :
Sam: What happened to the coupons in my Target toy catalog?
Me: I sent them to Santa...he likes a good deal too, ya know.
--------------------------------------
Do you shop on Black Friday? I did it once and actually enjoyed it. So I'm planning a trip this year. I'm hoping to get all my shopping done on that day so that I don't have to brave the crowds again until after the new year (except for the grocery store which is, unfortunately, unavoidable).
This year we have three additional people to shop for in our family...Myles, my brother's fiancee, and her son...so the planning becomes a bit more involved than in past years where Sam was the only child (toy shopping on Black Friday is reportedly even more insane than electronics shopping). My plan...Kmart, Sears, Office Max, CVS, Target, and Kohls.
Wish me luck.
--------------------------------------
Seriously...check this out for a laugh...
kvetch.com
Those folks at Twitter are genius!
--------------------------------------
I've just finished a conversation with Samuel that easily ranks as the weirdest one yet. He told me all about the little invisible man that lives in his head and who has, as of late, been telling him incorrect schoolwork answers...in a deliberate effort to play tricks on Sam and "be funny." He apparently moved into Sam's cranium at the beginning of the school year and has, up till now, been a reliable and helpful little personality disorder. Now if Sam doesn't listen to him and do what he says, the little man is disruptive and screams inside Sam's brain.
uh...ok...
Anyone know a good child psychologist?
--------------------------------------
Blog posts with links in them make much more sense if you KNOW there are links in them. I just realized the links in my posts weren't showing up as underlined or in any way distinguishable from the normal text. duh!
--------------------------------------
Thanks to Lori for sending me this article about one of my favorite words...meh.
--------------------------------------
LOS ANGELES - Dr Pepper is making good on its promise of free soda now that the release of Guns N' Roses' "Chinese Democracy" is a reality.
The soft-drink maker said in March that it would give a free soda to everyone in America if the album dropped in 2008. "Chinese Democracy," infamously delayed since recording began in 1994, goes on sale Sunday.
"We never thought this day would come," Tony Jacobs, Dr Pepper's vice president of marketing, said in a statement. "But now that it's here, all we can say is: The Dr Pepper's on us."
Beginning Sunday at 12:01 a.m., coupons for a free 20-ounce soda will be available for 24 hours on Dr Pepper's Web site. They'll be honored until Feb. 28.
--------------------------------------
On the spot creative mommy thinking for this week :
Sam: What happened to the coupons in my Target toy catalog?
Me: I sent them to Santa...he likes a good deal too, ya know.
--------------------------------------
Do you shop on Black Friday? I did it once and actually enjoyed it. So I'm planning a trip this year. I'm hoping to get all my shopping done on that day so that I don't have to brave the crowds again until after the new year (except for the grocery store which is, unfortunately, unavoidable).
This year we have three additional people to shop for in our family...Myles, my brother's fiancee, and her son...so the planning becomes a bit more involved than in past years where Sam was the only child (toy shopping on Black Friday is reportedly even more insane than electronics shopping). My plan...Kmart, Sears, Office Max, CVS, Target, and Kohls.
Wish me luck.
--------------------------------------
Seriously...check this out for a laugh...
kvetch.com
Those folks at Twitter are genius!
--------------------------------------
I've just finished a conversation with Samuel that easily ranks as the weirdest one yet. He told me all about the little invisible man that lives in his head and who has, as of late, been telling him incorrect schoolwork answers...in a deliberate effort to play tricks on Sam and "be funny." He apparently moved into Sam's cranium at the beginning of the school year and has, up till now, been a reliable and helpful little personality disorder. Now if Sam doesn't listen to him and do what he says, the little man is disruptive and screams inside Sam's brain.
uh...ok...
Anyone know a good child psychologist?
--------------------------------------
Blog posts with links in them make much more sense if you KNOW there are links in them. I just realized the links in my posts weren't showing up as underlined or in any way distinguishable from the normal text. duh!
--------------------------------------
Thanks to Lori for sending me this article about one of my favorite words...meh.
--------------------------------------
LOS ANGELES - Dr Pepper is making good on its promise of free soda now that the release of Guns N' Roses' "Chinese Democracy" is a reality.
The soft-drink maker said in March that it would give a free soda to everyone in America if the album dropped in 2008. "Chinese Democracy," infamously delayed since recording began in 1994, goes on sale Sunday.
"We never thought this day would come," Tony Jacobs, Dr Pepper's vice president of marketing, said in a statement. "But now that it's here, all we can say is: The Dr Pepper's on us."
Beginning Sunday at 12:01 a.m., coupons for a free 20-ounce soda will be available for 24 hours on Dr Pepper's Web site. They'll be honored until Feb. 28.
--------------------------------------
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Today...tomorrow...
Last year I wrote about inevitability.
Tomorrow we celebrate Myles' first birthday.
I'm at a loss for words.
I feel peace where I didn't before.
But it also feels like there is something new on the horizon...something big and important...
Tomorrow we celebrate Myles' first birthday.
I'm at a loss for words.
I feel peace where I didn't before.
But it also feels like there is something new on the horizon...something big and important...
Monday, November 17, 2008
thanks-giving?
I picked the oldest kid up from school and we went grocery shopping. He alternately whined and acted spastic the entire time...and then asked for a chocolate bar.
We came home and, after I put all the groceries away, had an hour or so of work to do. (It's a wonder I don't get fired for all the work that has piled up in the last year.)
I made dinner...nothing special but I still made an effort. I even did the dishes while I cooked...and re-ran the load of stinky laundry that husband washed a couple days ago but failed to dry.
Husband came home with the youngest kid, quite literally plunked him down on the floor, pronounced his need for some Sudafed, and disappeared upstairs. I found him there two hours later passed out across the bed.
I fed the boys and tried to grab a few bites of my own dinner in between the baby's screams (because I wasn't shoveling it in his face fast enough), let the boys play for a bit, and thankfully announced it was bedtime. At that point Sam decides to chastise me (in THAT voice) with, "Mommy, you were SUPPOSED TO make me Kool Aid." I told him, through gritted teeth, to go upstairs to bed.
I took the baby upstairs to bed, came back downstairs, and as I was donning my boots, my husband groggily stumbles in (using THAT voice) saying, "Where are you going?" I silently walked out to the barn and fed the horses that had yet to have their evening feed. I probably could have closed the door a little quieter behind me.
When I came back in the house? Silence (though every light was still inexplicably left on). Nobody in sight...husband apparently went back to bed.
Yeah...you're all WELCOME!
We came home and, after I put all the groceries away, had an hour or so of work to do. (It's a wonder I don't get fired for all the work that has piled up in the last year.)
I made dinner...nothing special but I still made an effort. I even did the dishes while I cooked...and re-ran the load of stinky laundry that husband washed a couple days ago but failed to dry.
Husband came home with the youngest kid, quite literally plunked him down on the floor, pronounced his need for some Sudafed, and disappeared upstairs. I found him there two hours later passed out across the bed.
I fed the boys and tried to grab a few bites of my own dinner in between the baby's screams (because I wasn't shoveling it in his face fast enough), let the boys play for a bit, and thankfully announced it was bedtime. At that point Sam decides to chastise me (in THAT voice) with, "Mommy, you were SUPPOSED TO make me Kool Aid." I told him, through gritted teeth, to go upstairs to bed.
I took the baby upstairs to bed, came back downstairs, and as I was donning my boots, my husband groggily stumbles in (using THAT voice) saying, "Where are you going?" I silently walked out to the barn and fed the horses that had yet to have their evening feed. I probably could have closed the door a little quieter behind me.
When I came back in the house? Silence (though every light was still inexplicably left on). Nobody in sight...husband apparently went back to bed.
Yeah...you're all WELCOME!
Sunday, November 16, 2008
hi
(ring, ring, ring)
Me: Hello?
Voice on the phone: Hi!
Me: Hi...
Voice on the phone: Hi!
Me: Who is this?
Voice on the phone: Kaylee (sounding as if I should recognize her name and voice)
Me: Kaylee, I think maybe you dialed the wrong number honey, you need to hang up and have your mommy dial again for you.
Voice on the phone: OK
I relay the conversation to Steve and Sam...thinking Kaylee was trying to reach someone she regularly talks to on the phone.
Sam: Maybe it's Kaylee from my class.
Me: Does Kaylee from your class have your phone number?
Sam: No, we're not allowed to exchange phone numbers in class.
Me: Then how would Kaylee have your number?
(ring, ring, ring)
Me: Hello?
Voice on the phone: Hi!
Me: Hi...who is this?
Voice on the phone: Kaylee
Me: Hi Kaylee...who are you looking for?
Voice on the phone: Samuel
Me (laughing): Samuel? How did you get Samuel's phone number Kaylee?
Voice on the phone: He wrote it down on a piece of paper for me.
Me (laughing even harder): Oh he did, did he? Samuel...it's for you...
Thanks to Kaylee, Samuel received his first lesson in telephone etiquette.
#1 Don't give out mommy's cell phone number unless you ask mommy if it's ok first.
#2 When you call someone and they answer the phone, say, "Hello, this is Samuel Colgan...may I please speak with...?"
(I am SO not ready for this.)
Me: Hello?
Voice on the phone: Hi!
Me: Hi...
Voice on the phone: Hi!
Me: Who is this?
Voice on the phone: Kaylee (sounding as if I should recognize her name and voice)
Me: Kaylee, I think maybe you dialed the wrong number honey, you need to hang up and have your mommy dial again for you.
Voice on the phone: OK
I relay the conversation to Steve and Sam...thinking Kaylee was trying to reach someone she regularly talks to on the phone.
Sam: Maybe it's Kaylee from my class.
Me: Does Kaylee from your class have your phone number?
Sam: No, we're not allowed to exchange phone numbers in class.
Me: Then how would Kaylee have your number?
(ring, ring, ring)
Me: Hello?
Voice on the phone: Hi!
Me: Hi...who is this?
Voice on the phone: Kaylee
Me: Hi Kaylee...who are you looking for?
Voice on the phone: Samuel
Me (laughing): Samuel? How did you get Samuel's phone number Kaylee?
Voice on the phone: He wrote it down on a piece of paper for me.
Me (laughing even harder): Oh he did, did he? Samuel...it's for you...
Thanks to Kaylee, Samuel received his first lesson in telephone etiquette.
#1 Don't give out mommy's cell phone number unless you ask mommy if it's ok first.
#2 When you call someone and they answer the phone, say, "Hello, this is Samuel Colgan...may I please speak with...?"
(I am SO not ready for this.)
Friday, November 14, 2008
Frugal Friday
You do not save on groceries if you plan out your shopping trip and then never actually GO to the store.
CVS
3 12-packs of diet pepsi
1 Fructis hairspray
1 184-count Huggies sensitive wipes
5 32-oz ready-made Similac formula
---------------------------
Spent $43.15
Saved $16.87
Got back $6 ECB
CVS
3 12-packs of diet pepsi
1 Fructis hairspray
1 184-count Huggies sensitive wipes
5 32-oz ready-made Similac formula
---------------------------
Spent $43.15
Saved $16.87
Got back $6 ECB
Miscellaneous thoughts
-----------------------------------
Let's start out this week with a huge CONGRATULATIONS to my brother-in-law for successfully defending his MFA thesis!
-----------------------------------
It is just wrong that they have used Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer in an Aflac commercial. So wrong.
-----------------------------------
Veteran's Day holiday...I should be reading transcripts but I'm not. I'm drinking coffee, watching Boston Legal, and crocheting. Love it!
-----------------------------------
So parent-teacher conference went well. I wasn't in the mood to deal with a first grade teacher, so I sent Steve. He brought home a good report. The teacher said Sam could be the class valedictorian if he keeps up at his current pace. No pressure or anything. lol!
Steve had a heart to heart talk with the teacher and she acknowledged that she knows Sam is bored in class. She's going to try to challenge him with more difficult work. I'm not entirely satisfied with that answer. Though she says he is not a disturbance to the rest of the class, I don't think it's too far of a leap from bored...so I'm still worried.
-----------------------------------
Myles suffered his second blood-inducing injury on Tuesday...knocking his nose on the baby gate. Just two in the first year isn't a bad record, if I do say so myself. And I haven't even had to resort to wrapping him in bubble wrap!
-----------------------------------
Don't know if I can swing it yet or not...but...
-----------------------------------
This is pretty cool...
-----------------------------------
I have NO IDEA what to get Myles for his first birthday. It seems Toys R Us has exploded in my house at some point and we no longer NEED a single toy...we've got 'em all. Of course, I KNOW I could give him a cardboard box and Myles would be happy. But I want to give him SOMETHING!
-----------------------------------
Washburn's Old Fashioned Christmas candies make me smile because they remind me of my grandma at Christmastime.
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If your knitting is for the birds, consider making sock-sweaters for the parrots at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. You can also buy socks and donate them...but I thought the knitting idea was great for my friends who, like me, may have tried sock knitting and came away with something that resembled a sock but wasn't really wearable.
-----------------------------------
Dogs like Jeffrey break my heart. Won't you help out if you can? Donate a dollar or two?
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Let's start out this week with a huge CONGRATULATIONS to my brother-in-law for successfully defending his MFA thesis!
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It is just wrong that they have used Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer in an Aflac commercial. So wrong.
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Veteran's Day holiday...I should be reading transcripts but I'm not. I'm drinking coffee, watching Boston Legal, and crocheting. Love it!
-----------------------------------
So parent-teacher conference went well. I wasn't in the mood to deal with a first grade teacher, so I sent Steve. He brought home a good report. The teacher said Sam could be the class valedictorian if he keeps up at his current pace. No pressure or anything. lol!
Steve had a heart to heart talk with the teacher and she acknowledged that she knows Sam is bored in class. She's going to try to challenge him with more difficult work. I'm not entirely satisfied with that answer. Though she says he is not a disturbance to the rest of the class, I don't think it's too far of a leap from bored...so I'm still worried.
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Myles suffered his second blood-inducing injury on Tuesday...knocking his nose on the baby gate. Just two in the first year isn't a bad record, if I do say so myself. And I haven't even had to resort to wrapping him in bubble wrap!
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Don't know if I can swing it yet or not...but...
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This is pretty cool...
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I have NO IDEA what to get Myles for his first birthday. It seems Toys R Us has exploded in my house at some point and we no longer NEED a single toy...we've got 'em all. Of course, I KNOW I could give him a cardboard box and Myles would be happy. But I want to give him SOMETHING!
-----------------------------------
Washburn's Old Fashioned Christmas candies make me smile because they remind me of my grandma at Christmastime.
-----------------------------------
If your knitting is for the birds, consider making sock-sweaters for the parrots at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. You can also buy socks and donate them...but I thought the knitting idea was great for my friends who, like me, may have tried sock knitting and came away with something that resembled a sock but wasn't really wearable.
-----------------------------------
Dogs like Jeffrey break my heart. Won't you help out if you can? Donate a dollar or two?
-----------------------------------
Thursday, November 13, 2008
I should have expected this
Myles turns one year old next Thursday and I've got all the hallmark mommy sentimentality to spew forth in the next few days as I rightly should. What I didn't expect...what I'm kicking myself for not anticipating...is the resurgence of grief that comes with these milestones.
I'm fairly used to the every day stuff by now...the smiles where I wonder if his brothers would have looked like him...the screech that I don't wish too hard would stop...the packing away of now-outgrown clothes that were actually purchased for another child. Those moments are like tiny little arrows that prick at calloused skin but don't puncture through (anymore). But as the major milestones happen, like first birthdays, it's like somebody is taking a pick axe to my heart.
I read this over at Glow in the Woods...and I was shocked to find myself at peace with the knowledge that someone gets it.
There are days that are darker than others. I want to call the office and be free to say, “Sorry, but I just can’t do it. It’s all meaningless don’t you see, because today I’ll be useless to anyone but her. She’s dead and I can’t bear to wash my hair and I really just need to stay at home to be with her.” I start to cry in the shower and hate the world for expecting me to stop and get on with it. The only her left for me to be with is not one anyone else understands.
The thing is, I know I'm not alone. But as time moves on and life drags me forward, I FEEL alone. I feel as though I'm supposed to hide Alex and Travis away in a closet and not let their absence affect my every day life. I'm not supposed to spend time with them. I'm supposed to be grateful for what I have, not mourn what I've lost.
But these days...these days that hurt so much I want to howl in pain again...these days still come around. And I know it's no coincidence that they come around gleefully dancing hand-in-hand with the happy days. First birthday happiness? Meet my partner, glaring emptiness and sadness. I can't have one without the other. Not anymore. Probably never again.
Of course I know it's normal deadbabymama stuff...routine for those who travel in these circles...and I should have planned for it because I really really really don't want it to ruin the day. I need to focus on the living. Even when I hear the dead calling me to spend time with them.
I'm fairly used to the every day stuff by now...the smiles where I wonder if his brothers would have looked like him...the screech that I don't wish too hard would stop...the packing away of now-outgrown clothes that were actually purchased for another child. Those moments are like tiny little arrows that prick at calloused skin but don't puncture through (anymore). But as the major milestones happen, like first birthdays, it's like somebody is taking a pick axe to my heart.
I read this over at Glow in the Woods...and I was shocked to find myself at peace with the knowledge that someone gets it.
There are days that are darker than others. I want to call the office and be free to say, “Sorry, but I just can’t do it. It’s all meaningless don’t you see, because today I’ll be useless to anyone but her. She’s dead and I can’t bear to wash my hair and I really just need to stay at home to be with her.” I start to cry in the shower and hate the world for expecting me to stop and get on with it. The only her left for me to be with is not one anyone else understands.
The thing is, I know I'm not alone. But as time moves on and life drags me forward, I FEEL alone. I feel as though I'm supposed to hide Alex and Travis away in a closet and not let their absence affect my every day life. I'm not supposed to spend time with them. I'm supposed to be grateful for what I have, not mourn what I've lost.
But these days...these days that hurt so much I want to howl in pain again...these days still come around. And I know it's no coincidence that they come around gleefully dancing hand-in-hand with the happy days. First birthday happiness? Meet my partner, glaring emptiness and sadness. I can't have one without the other. Not anymore. Probably never again.
Of course I know it's normal deadbabymama stuff...routine for those who travel in these circles...and I should have planned for it because I really really really don't want it to ruin the day. I need to focus on the living. Even when I hear the dead calling me to spend time with them.
AUTHORS AND ARTISTS DONATE WORK TO BE AUCTIONED OFF FOR ANIMAL RESCUE CHARITY
Noah’s Wish will host an online charity auction featuring artist signed art and author signed books. Dan Rojas, Don Roth, Sharon Fernleaf, Janice Osborne and Carol Lew are some of the artists donating their art and actor Antonio Sabato Jr., The Dog Whisperer Cesar Millan, actress Diane Keaton and Celebrity Psychic Nancy Bradley are some of the authors who graciously donated autographed books to help raise funds to save pets in disasters.
“We are very excited to have so many artists and authors join us in this fun project that will help us in our mission to rescue animals left behind in disasters,” said Amy Maher, Board Chair of Noah’s Wish. “Sadly, disasters can and do happen at any time – and the funds raised by this auction will go directly to help us help animals in crisis.”
The link to the auction will be accessible via www.noahswish.info. The auction starts on November 13th, 2008 and runs for 10 days.
“We are very excited to have so many artists and authors join us in this fun project that will help us in our mission to rescue animals left behind in disasters,” said Amy Maher, Board Chair of Noah’s Wish. “Sadly, disasters can and do happen at any time – and the funds raised by this auction will go directly to help us help animals in crisis.”
The link to the auction will be accessible via www.noahswish.info. The auction starts on November 13th, 2008 and runs for 10 days.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Thank you Shanna
In all the illness-induced chaos at our house, I forgot to thank you for sending the Obama buttons. With yours plus what we requested from MoveOn.org, we've got quite a little collection (despite the fact that Sam lost one on the first day...sigh). Thanks so much!
These remind me of a button collection my sister once had...all kinds vintage design buttons (I Like Ike...Rosie the Riveter...etc.). I wonder what happened to those...?
Let the day of "NO" commence
I'm home alone with Myles today (Happy Veterans Day). We've been awake and out of bed for about an hour. I've already said "no" about 3,966,240,563,127,595 times. And every time I do, he flashes me this grin...
He is currently banging the dogs' metal dog dish on the dining room chairs like a good little prisoner. If this is the last you hear from me in a while, send reinforcements.
He is currently banging the dogs' metal dog dish on the dining room chairs like a good little prisoner. If this is the last you hear from me in a while, send reinforcements.
Monday, November 10, 2008
True Love
I read online about a Star Wars Pumpkin Carving kit available exclusively at Target. A week before Halloween, I sent Steve to find one. He called and asked me to find the SKU and text it to him...because he wasn't having any luck. I was disappointed to find that nobody had a good enough photo of the actual package so I could copy the UPC.
But my man was not to be deterred. The Daddy who, despite the sighs and eye rolls, really wants to see his son's eyes light up...the hunter/gatherer...refused to return to the nest empty-handed. He kept looking...rummaging through shelves of generic Halloween accessories...peering behind Star Wars costumes and related paraphenalia...already planning to visit a different store the next day if need be. A final desperate look behind the Disney princess pumpkin carving kits and...voila! He found one and returned home a hero!
We shall not discuss the profanity that accompanied the actual carving of the pumpkins. But they do look good, don't they?
But my man was not to be deterred. The Daddy who, despite the sighs and eye rolls, really wants to see his son's eyes light up...the hunter/gatherer...refused to return to the nest empty-handed. He kept looking...rummaging through shelves of generic Halloween accessories...peering behind Star Wars costumes and related paraphenalia...already planning to visit a different store the next day if need be. A final desperate look behind the Disney princess pumpkin carving kits and...voila! He found one and returned home a hero!
We shall not discuss the profanity that accompanied the actual carving of the pumpkins. But they do look good, don't they?
Sunday, November 09, 2008
Secret Pal 13
1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
Allergic to wool, but love all other natural fibers. Don't mind acrylic if it's soft and squishy.
2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
Have a couple fabric needle/hook rolls that work well for me.
3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
Don't knit much. Crochet is my thing and I consider myself an advanced crocheter.
4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
Amazon, though there are a few things on there that are stitch related, it's not craft-oriented for the most part.
5. What's your favorite scent?
During the winter months I like baking scents...cinnamon/clove spices...vanilla/sugar...baked apple/orange.
6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
There's nothing better than good chocolate.
7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?
Scrapbooking...when I have time.
Gardening.
Cooking/baking.
I like cross-stitch, but haven't had time/space to do it for a couple of years now.
8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
I listen mainly to country music because that's what's available on the radio out here. I also love Broadway musicals and classical music.
9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand?
Favorite color = purple
10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
Married with two children and two angel babies.
Lots of pets: Six dogs, four cats, two horses
11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
Yes, yes, yes, no ponchos
12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
Anything wearable.
13. What are you knitting right now?
Still working on things for friends...a granny square afghan...a teapot cozy...baby blanket that has changed recipients because I didn't get it done for the person it was originally intended for (and now the baby is too old to give a baby gift). I'm also working on an afghan for my own son...it's my "mindless" stitching project.
14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
Of course!
15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
I like my bamboo knitting needles but I don't do much knitting. I use my aluminum crochet hooks the most and I would love to have some nice rosewood crochet hooks.
16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
No...but I don't really have a need for one.
17. How old is your oldest UFO?
The granny square afghan for my friend is a couple years old. It's a repetitive pattern, so I tend to get bored with it.
18. What is your favorite holiday? What winter holiday do you observe?
We observe Christmas, though we are not a particularly religious family.
19. Is there anything that you collect?
Besides yarn and scrapbooking supplies? nothing really
20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
Rosewood crochet hooks.
Crochet! magazine or Interweave Crochet.
Enough bamboo yarn or soy yarn in one colorway to make the Doris Chan Amsterdam Coat.
***edited to add***
I have been browsing at The Loopy Ewe and Paradise Fibers and my head is spinning with the possibilities!
21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
I have never crocheted socks, but would love to try.
22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
No.
23. When is your birthday?
February 8th
24. Are you on Ravelry? If so, what's your ID?
Yes...Kate94651
Allergic to wool, but love all other natural fibers. Don't mind acrylic if it's soft and squishy.
2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
Have a couple fabric needle/hook rolls that work well for me.
3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
Don't knit much. Crochet is my thing and I consider myself an advanced crocheter.
4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
Amazon, though there are a few things on there that are stitch related, it's not craft-oriented for the most part.
5. What's your favorite scent?
During the winter months I like baking scents...cinnamon/clove spices...vanilla/sugar...baked apple/orange.
6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
There's nothing better than good chocolate.
7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?
Scrapbooking...when I have time.
Gardening.
Cooking/baking.
I like cross-stitch, but haven't had time/space to do it for a couple of years now.
8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
I listen mainly to country music because that's what's available on the radio out here. I also love Broadway musicals and classical music.
9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand?
Favorite color = purple
10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
Married with two children and two angel babies.
Lots of pets: Six dogs, four cats, two horses
11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
Yes, yes, yes, no ponchos
12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
Anything wearable.
13. What are you knitting right now?
Still working on things for friends...a granny square afghan...a teapot cozy...baby blanket that has changed recipients because I didn't get it done for the person it was originally intended for (and now the baby is too old to give a baby gift). I'm also working on an afghan for my own son...it's my "mindless" stitching project.
14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
Of course!
15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
I like my bamboo knitting needles but I don't do much knitting. I use my aluminum crochet hooks the most and I would love to have some nice rosewood crochet hooks.
16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
No...but I don't really have a need for one.
17. How old is your oldest UFO?
The granny square afghan for my friend is a couple years old. It's a repetitive pattern, so I tend to get bored with it.
18. What is your favorite holiday? What winter holiday do you observe?
We observe Christmas, though we are not a particularly religious family.
19. Is there anything that you collect?
Besides yarn and scrapbooking supplies? nothing really
20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
Rosewood crochet hooks.
Crochet! magazine or Interweave Crochet.
Enough bamboo yarn or soy yarn in one colorway to make the Doris Chan Amsterdam Coat.
***edited to add***
I have been browsing at The Loopy Ewe and Paradise Fibers and my head is spinning with the possibilities!
21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
I have never crocheted socks, but would love to try.
22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
No.
23. When is your birthday?
February 8th
24. Are you on Ravelry? If so, what's your ID?
Yes...Kate94651
Friday, November 07, 2008
Frugal Friday
Groceries, groceries, groceries...
Spent $126.93
Saved $56.95
Received $6 in coupons back
Formula, drugs, and peppermint life savers...
Spent $41.32
Saved $11.80
Not bad. Really working toward getting my out of pocket down.
Spent $126.93
Saved $56.95
Received $6 in coupons back
Formula, drugs, and peppermint life savers...
Spent $41.32
Saved $11.80
Not bad. Really working toward getting my out of pocket down.
More school worries
So things have gone from strange to stranger in Samuel's school world.
A couple of weeks ago, he brought home a book to read. It was, according to his proud proclamation, "the hardest reader the teacher has." He read it in under one minute. No, I'm not kidding. He whipped through the one-sentence-per-page book practically without taking a breath. I brushed off my mommy instinct and convinced myself I was worrying about nothing.
Then he came home with the two-or-three-sentence-per-page book about snakes. He stumbled over the word "reticulated" during the first reading. It was easy peasy after that. He reported that when he had to read it to the classroom reading volunteer yesterday he, "even remembered the word reticulated" without a problem. Reticulated. In first grade.
He missed two days of class and was greeted with an intimidating pile of worksheets to complete. He did so in about an hour and a half. The most difficult exercises are the new addition skills...the rest I suspect he could do with his eyes closed and one hand tied behind his back.
Parent-teacher conferences are Monday evening. As always, it's going to be interesting.
A couple of weeks ago, he brought home a book to read. It was, according to his proud proclamation, "the hardest reader the teacher has." He read it in under one minute. No, I'm not kidding. He whipped through the one-sentence-per-page book practically without taking a breath. I brushed off my mommy instinct and convinced myself I was worrying about nothing.
Then he came home with the two-or-three-sentence-per-page book about snakes. He stumbled over the word "reticulated" during the first reading. It was easy peasy after that. He reported that when he had to read it to the classroom reading volunteer yesterday he, "even remembered the word reticulated" without a problem. Reticulated. In first grade.
He missed two days of class and was greeted with an intimidating pile of worksheets to complete. He did so in about an hour and a half. The most difficult exercises are the new addition skills...the rest I suspect he could do with his eyes closed and one hand tied behind his back.
Parent-teacher conferences are Monday evening. As always, it's going to be interesting.
Thursday, November 06, 2008
Something funny
From http://philanthropy.com/
"A Community Organizer Ascends to the White House"
I guess your headline depends on your perspective.
"A Community Organizer Ascends to the White House"
I guess your headline depends on your perspective.
Knowing when to exercise the mommy power
Sam missed school this Monday and Tuesday because he had whatever stomach flu his father so graciously gave him (and me...grrr!). Yesterday, he came home from school with an obscene number of worksheets to complete. Presumably, these were worksheets that would have been completed in class had he been in attendance. When I was sifting through them after school, I muttered something about this being a day when I had scheduled a vet appointment, grocery schopping, and Cub Scouts, Sam nearly started crying. When I asked him what was wrong, he quietly pouted he didn't want to miss cub scouts because of "stupid homework." I realized my frustration up to this point has been because I've allowed this kind of silliness to continue.
So...we went ahead with our plans and I wrote a note for school...
---------------------------------------
No, my internal ethical battle over certain parts of Cub Scouts has not been resolved. I KNOW there are larger issues involved here and that I could take a stand for what I believe. But like the lady who refused to give Halloween candy to kids whose parents supported Barack Obama, it would be MY stand at the expense of my son's involvement in something he enjoys. I'm working on my approach. But for now I'm just going to let him enjoy the camping and nature hikes.
So...we went ahead with our plans and I wrote a note for school...
Dear Miss C: Wednesday nights are Cub Scout nights and Sam did not have time to complete all of the work from his absence. We plan to have it completed by Friday. Thank you for understanding.We'll see how it goes over with the school.
---------------------------------------
No, my internal ethical battle over certain parts of Cub Scouts has not been resolved. I KNOW there are larger issues involved here and that I could take a stand for what I believe. But like the lady who refused to give Halloween candy to kids whose parents supported Barack Obama, it would be MY stand at the expense of my son's involvement in something he enjoys. I'm working on my approach. But for now I'm just going to let him enjoy the camping and nature hikes.
Don't pat yourself on the back too much
"Barack Obama elected first black president"
On the same day that that headline ran on the front page of the Cleveland Plain Dealer, California, a place that my mother and I fondly refer to as "the land of fruits and nuts," passed a constitutional amendment banning gay marriage (I'm ashamed to say that Ohio already has one)...and I read this post by Niobe.
I still have a dream.
Maybe some day.
But I know today is not that day.
On the same day that that headline ran on the front page of the Cleveland Plain Dealer, California, a place that my mother and I fondly refer to as "the land of fruits and nuts," passed a constitutional amendment banning gay marriage (I'm ashamed to say that Ohio already has one)...and I read this post by Niobe.
I still have a dream.
Maybe some day.
But I know today is not that day.
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
Education, opportunity and optimism
--------------------------------------
Sam helped me vote yesterday. He was THRILLED to be able to fill in the little bubble for Barack Obama and Joe Biden. He was disappointed, however, that he could not "vote the way he wanted." As is generally his nature, he is an impatient little soul and wanted the freedom to choose all on his own. I giggled when I asked him if he even knew who any of the people were and he said, "well...no...not really," because I know that he's probably as well-qualified to vote as any number of adults who cast a ballot. But when I explained that his time will come...when he's 18 he can choose to vote for whoever he wants...we started the most amazing dialogue we've ever had in his six short years of life.
--------------------------------------
Me: When you see those millions and millions of votes being counted tonight on the news, you'll know that one of them was yours.
Sam: Really?
Me: Yep. Pretty cool, huh?
Sam: Mommy, who's going to be campaigning for President when I'm 18?
Me: I don't know...it could be anybody. Let's see...when I was 18, Barack Obama was still in law school. So when you're 18, it could be somebody who is in law school right now...or it could be somebody who is in business...it could be anybody. Anybody can be President. YOU could be President some day if you want.
Sam: Really? (I can not express the awe with which this one word was spoken...it brought tears to my eyes.)
Me: Yes, really.
Sam: How?
Me: Well...it starts with working really hard in school...learning a lot about a lot of different things...I think the President should be really smart and work really hard to understand as much about the world as they can...
Sam: I could study lasers...that would be really smart.
Me: Maybe you don't want to be President then. Maybe you want to be a scientist and work for NASA.
Sam: What's NASA?
Me: The National Aeronautics and Space Administration. They study space. You know the people who send rockets up into outer space?
Sam: Yeah.
Me: That's NASA (a little liberty taken here...so shoot me)
Sam: Wow! Really?
Me: Yeah. Kind of like Star Wars, but not in a movie...in real life.
Sam: Wow.
Me: But you have to study really hard and do learn as much as you can about science and math.
Sam: OK. Can we get McDonalds for dinner?
--------------------------------------
I remember thinking the world was my playground and I could be anything I wanted to be. I remember dreaming and hoping for something better. I remember the possibility of it all.
When and how did I change?
How did I get here?
When did a steady stream of compromises become my way?
Can I change back?
Can I recapture for myself that optimism I so easily share with my child?
Indeed, it is time for a change.
--------------------------------------
Sam helped me vote yesterday. He was THRILLED to be able to fill in the little bubble for Barack Obama and Joe Biden. He was disappointed, however, that he could not "vote the way he wanted." As is generally his nature, he is an impatient little soul and wanted the freedom to choose all on his own. I giggled when I asked him if he even knew who any of the people were and he said, "well...no...not really," because I know that he's probably as well-qualified to vote as any number of adults who cast a ballot. But when I explained that his time will come...when he's 18 he can choose to vote for whoever he wants...we started the most amazing dialogue we've ever had in his six short years of life.
--------------------------------------
Me: When you see those millions and millions of votes being counted tonight on the news, you'll know that one of them was yours.
Sam: Really?
Me: Yep. Pretty cool, huh?
Sam: Mommy, who's going to be campaigning for President when I'm 18?
Me: I don't know...it could be anybody. Let's see...when I was 18, Barack Obama was still in law school. So when you're 18, it could be somebody who is in law school right now...or it could be somebody who is in business...it could be anybody. Anybody can be President. YOU could be President some day if you want.
Sam: Really? (I can not express the awe with which this one word was spoken...it brought tears to my eyes.)
Me: Yes, really.
Sam: How?
Me: Well...it starts with working really hard in school...learning a lot about a lot of different things...I think the President should be really smart and work really hard to understand as much about the world as they can...
Sam: I could study lasers...that would be really smart.
Me: Maybe you don't want to be President then. Maybe you want to be a scientist and work for NASA.
Sam: What's NASA?
Me: The National Aeronautics and Space Administration. They study space. You know the people who send rockets up into outer space?
Sam: Yeah.
Me: That's NASA (a little liberty taken here...so shoot me)
Sam: Wow! Really?
Me: Yeah. Kind of like Star Wars, but not in a movie...in real life.
Sam: Wow.
Me: But you have to study really hard and do learn as much as you can about science and math.
Sam: OK. Can we get McDonalds for dinner?
--------------------------------------
I remember thinking the world was my playground and I could be anything I wanted to be. I remember dreaming and hoping for something better. I remember the possibility of it all.
When and how did I change?
How did I get here?
When did a steady stream of compromises become my way?
Can I change back?
Can I recapture for myself that optimism I so easily share with my child?
Indeed, it is time for a change.
--------------------------------------
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
Don't ever stop
That feeling that you feel right now...whatever it is...whatever side you fall on politically...harness that feeling and DO something with it. Let it motivate you to find your voice and express what is important to you.
Attend your local township trustee meetings...city council meetings...county commissioner meetings...whatever. Find a cause to join. Start a cause that is your passion.
Achievement...success...don't come easy. You have to want it. You have to work for it. Moving this country forward is a mammoth task that requires a monumental effort. We're not where we need to be just yet. But if we take this opportunity...all of us...to capture this moment...we can ALL make a difference in this world.
The change that we create ourselves...THAT'S the change we can believe in.
Attend your local township trustee meetings...city council meetings...county commissioner meetings...whatever. Find a cause to join. Start a cause that is your passion.
Achievement...success...don't come easy. You have to want it. You have to work for it. Moving this country forward is a mammoth task that requires a monumental effort. We're not where we need to be just yet. But if we take this opportunity...all of us...to capture this moment...we can ALL make a difference in this world.
The change that we create ourselves...THAT'S the change we can believe in.
Since everyone is so worried about socialism
Ever heard of the earned income tax credit?
Know what it is?
Know who started it?
Yeah...I know.
Know what it is?
Know who started it?
Yeah...I know.
You get what you pay for
To all those folks who didn't think we needed more money in our county budget and voted down the county-wide sales tax...enjoy standing in line waiting to vote because your precinct can only afford two machines. There's nothing I can do about it.
Sunday, November 02, 2008
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Note to self
The 2008 Emmy Award-winning animated television series “WordGirl” offers a special Election Day episode Tuesday, Nov. 4 (5:30pm for us) on PBS stations across the country.
The Season 2 premiere finds Becky and Tobey both running for student council president. Then, the Butcher enrolls in an adult-education class to brush up on the word skills he needs to be a top-notch criminal.
*Must DVR for Sam.*
The Season 2 premiere finds Becky and Tobey both running for student council president. Then, the Butcher enrolls in an adult-education class to brush up on the word skills he needs to be a top-notch criminal.
*Must DVR for Sam.*
He did not say that
For the record...the alleged quote...
What was printed in the Wall Street Journal...
Please note where the quotation marks are...and what the context is before you forward me this stupid email/misrepresentation/lie one more time.
Thank you.
"A strong government hand is needed to assure that wealth is distributed more equitably."
What was printed in the Wall Street Journal...
"Globalization and technology and automation all weaken the position of workers," he said, and a strong government hand is needed to assure that wealth is distributed more equitably.
Please note where the quotation marks are...and what the context is before you forward me this stupid email/misrepresentation/lie one more time.
Thank you.
A hypothetical
So let's assume the following fact scenario...
You own a house, a barn/garage, a hay barn, and smaller barn on 4.2 acres of property outside of the nearest village/city. It's about a mile away from the new high school in one direction. It's less than a mile away from a landfill in another direction. Landfill attorneys have approached your boss about your "conflict of interest" and, in no uncertain terms, threatened your job. You recently put a lot of work into renovating the house, but still have a lot of finish work to complete on the inside. Your home is "overvalued" as the current economic crisis has defined that term. You love your home but realize it is time to get the hell out of Dodge. The home selling market is for shit. The home buying market is fabulous. You can not afford two mortgages at the same time.
What do you do? Any creative suggestions out there?
I swear, life was easier when mom and dad figured out all this grown-up stuff for me.
You own a house, a barn/garage, a hay barn, and smaller barn on 4.2 acres of property outside of the nearest village/city. It's about a mile away from the new high school in one direction. It's less than a mile away from a landfill in another direction. Landfill attorneys have approached your boss about your "conflict of interest" and, in no uncertain terms, threatened your job. You recently put a lot of work into renovating the house, but still have a lot of finish work to complete on the inside. Your home is "overvalued" as the current economic crisis has defined that term. You love your home but realize it is time to get the hell out of Dodge. The home selling market is for shit. The home buying market is fabulous. You can not afford two mortgages at the same time.
What do you do? Any creative suggestions out there?
I swear, life was easier when mom and dad figured out all this grown-up stuff for me.
Eliot has a little sister
If any of you follow Eliot's blog...about the baby boy who lived with Trisomy 18 from July 20, 2006 to October 27, 2006...you will be happy to know that little sister, Hazel, has arrived safe and sound. Congratulations to the entire family!
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
The political scream machine
I LIKE to discuss politics. I like the free-flow of ideas and the exchange of information. I ENJOY tossing ideas around and coming at a problem from more than one angle so that it hopefully develops some sort of reasonable response/approach. I like to think I'm always right (got that from my dad)...but I recognize that I'm probably wrong more often than not. I don't see getting my panties in a bunch over anything any politician has to say (except maybe the idiot who voted to put the landfill in my backyard). And I really don't see getting myself all worked up because my friends and/or family and/or complete strangers don't agree with me. They're ALLOWED to not agree with me...that's the great thing about it.
But here's the thing...if you really don't want to discuss politics with me then DON'T discuss politics. Nothing irritates me more than the person who states their political position and then says, "But I don't want to talk about it." No...what you want to do is a political hit and run. You want to stick your fingers in your ears and sing "la la la la" loud enough that you can't hear anything other than the sound of your own voice. It's juvenile and it makes me want to smack you upside the head.
This past weekend when I was canvassing for the Obama campaign, I met a couple of folks who said, "Thank you for stopping by...I have already made my decision...and I do not care to talk about it." That was it. They didn't say what their decision was or offer up anything to give me a clue. And it was NICE! So much more so than the driveby nasty comments I hear about Barack Obama these days. People love to take their shots and then run away. Nobody wants to HEAR the other side. As a lawyer and a generally fair-minded person, that really upsets my internal truth-and-justice meter.
***this post is not directed at any individual in particular and only expresses my generalized election season discontent***
But here's the thing...if you really don't want to discuss politics with me then DON'T discuss politics. Nothing irritates me more than the person who states their political position and then says, "But I don't want to talk about it." No...what you want to do is a political hit and run. You want to stick your fingers in your ears and sing "la la la la" loud enough that you can't hear anything other than the sound of your own voice. It's juvenile and it makes me want to smack you upside the head.
This past weekend when I was canvassing for the Obama campaign, I met a couple of folks who said, "Thank you for stopping by...I have already made my decision...and I do not care to talk about it." That was it. They didn't say what their decision was or offer up anything to give me a clue. And it was NICE! So much more so than the driveby nasty comments I hear about Barack Obama these days. People love to take their shots and then run away. Nobody wants to HEAR the other side. As a lawyer and a generally fair-minded person, that really upsets my internal truth-and-justice meter.
***this post is not directed at any individual in particular and only expresses my generalized election season discontent***
Monday, October 27, 2008
So wise
Me: OK...you are under strict orders not to grow anymore and outgrow your new winter coat.
Sam: Mommy...you know that's not how life works, right?
Sam: Mommy...you know that's not how life works, right?
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Super Saturday
Today I did it all. I'm not ashamed or embarrassed to make such a bold statement...because it's true.
I started off the day meeting some fascinating people and canvassing neighborhoods for the Obama campaign. I had the chance to talk with one woman...72 years old...who is voting for Obama because she has, in her words, "had enough." As I chatted with her in this chilly October morning, I felt as though something clicked into place for me.
All this time, I have wondered who lives behind the darkened windows of the houses I pass every day. And there she was...a widow of three months who visited her friend in West Virginia last week and was horrified to find prejudice and hatred still lurk in some people's hearts. There she was...wearing her robe over her sweatsuit and watching the Food Network with her cat. There she was...with her own life story and her own hope for something better.
After canvassing, I headed out to watch my six-year-old son play his last soccer game of this year. He's still no better than he was last year and he is still far too hard on himself for his lack of skill. But I couldn't be prouder of him for making a choice to participate and sticking it out until the end of the season.
After soccer my parents came to our house for lunch. Myles was full of smiles and contagious laughter that filled the house until it almost made me cry with happiness.
This evening was the daycare Halloween party. Kids in costume. Apple cider and any kind of sugary treat imaginable. Hay rides. A bonfire. Lovely, lovely, lovely.
And while there, I couldn't help but look around at all those little tiny faces...and wonder who they would be in another 70 years...what stories they would tell to the person who knocks on their door on a chilly October morning. I have hope for all of them...even more so after today...because I know I'm not the only one.
And as I reflect on this day, I can say that I did it all. I influenced a Presidential campaign. I spent time in the company of my amazingly loving family. I ate more Halloween treats than should be legal. Today was very very good.
I started off the day meeting some fascinating people and canvassing neighborhoods for the Obama campaign. I had the chance to talk with one woman...72 years old...who is voting for Obama because she has, in her words, "had enough." As I chatted with her in this chilly October morning, I felt as though something clicked into place for me.
All this time, I have wondered who lives behind the darkened windows of the houses I pass every day. And there she was...a widow of three months who visited her friend in West Virginia last week and was horrified to find prejudice and hatred still lurk in some people's hearts. There she was...wearing her robe over her sweatsuit and watching the Food Network with her cat. There she was...with her own life story and her own hope for something better.
After canvassing, I headed out to watch my six-year-old son play his last soccer game of this year. He's still no better than he was last year and he is still far too hard on himself for his lack of skill. But I couldn't be prouder of him for making a choice to participate and sticking it out until the end of the season.
After soccer my parents came to our house for lunch. Myles was full of smiles and contagious laughter that filled the house until it almost made me cry with happiness.
This evening was the daycare Halloween party. Kids in costume. Apple cider and any kind of sugary treat imaginable. Hay rides. A bonfire. Lovely, lovely, lovely.
And while there, I couldn't help but look around at all those little tiny faces...and wonder who they would be in another 70 years...what stories they would tell to the person who knocks on their door on a chilly October morning. I have hope for all of them...even more so after today...because I know I'm not the only one.
And as I reflect on this day, I can say that I did it all. I influenced a Presidential campaign. I spent time in the company of my amazingly loving family. I ate more Halloween treats than should be legal. Today was very very good.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Frugal Friday
Shopping has been a bit light here lately because I was sick. But this week I'm back in the saddle and looking for a good deal.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Punched in the gut
Alex & Sam
The Art of Giving
After all this time, seeing those two names together just makes my heart ache.
The Art of Giving
After all this time, seeing those two names together just makes my heart ache.
Another moral/parenting dilemma
I [insert name] promise to do my best
To do my duty to God and my country
To help other people
And to obey the law of the pack
"You will put God first and do what you know God wants you to do."
I don't want to lie. I don't ever want my son to lie. But can I honestly expect him to do what he KNOWS God wants him to do? He's six! It's a complicated question that I wrestle with at age 36! I don't want him to miss out on the scout experience. But it seems somehow dishonest to promise something like this.
(And don't ever google this particular issue...the hostility and venom out there over Boy Scouts will scare the crap out of you.)
To do my duty to God and my country
To help other people
And to obey the law of the pack
"You will put God first and do what you know God wants you to do."
I don't want to lie. I don't ever want my son to lie. But can I honestly expect him to do what he KNOWS God wants him to do? He's six! It's a complicated question that I wrestle with at age 36! I don't want him to miss out on the scout experience. But it seems somehow dishonest to promise something like this.
(And don't ever google this particular issue...the hostility and venom out there over Boy Scouts will scare the crap out of you.)
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Big stupid meanie head
That's my son's opinion of the person who stole our Obama/Biden yard sign...and I tend to agree.
Monday, October 20, 2008
bwa ha ha haaaa!
I post this in the hopes that people will see that there is still HUMOR to be had during this election period. Quite honestly, I find it very difficult to maintain my own sense of humor. You see, it is my job to advise my county's Board of Elections...to help them interpret directives and advisories issued by the Secretary of State...our top elections official. One of the most valuable tools I use to stay on top of the most current information (Ohio has had several lawsuits and other legal developments recently) is the Secretary of State's website.
Today...I find this message...October 20, 2008 - Columbus, Ohio – Due to security concerns experienced by the Secretary of State’s website, full functionality of the website has been suspended to protect the integrity of state records and data. Full functionality will be restored when we are assured that all data has been protected and restored to acceptable levels of security. If you have questions please contact Secretary of State’s office at 1-877-767-6446.
Great. So thanks to some idiot, my job just got immeasurably harder.
And last week, someone mailed a package with a mysterious white powder in/on it to the Secretary of State. Scrawled on the outside..."Death to Obama supporters." It turned out to be nothing, and we all got a good chuckle that the brain trust who sent it mailed it to the wrong building. But HONESTLY, it really ticks me off! I mean...REALLY?!?!? The people involved are just like me. They go to work every day trying to support their families and doing whatever they can to insure the integrity of the elections process in this state. They work for the people...even the stupid ones. I hope these creeps, whoever they are, crawl back under whatever rock they came from.
Find a sense of humor people. If I can laugh while up to my eyeballs in election legal questions and insanity, then there is NO reason you shouldn't be able to find a light moment or two.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Please vote for something important
My friend, Carla, runs Mini Mutts Rescue in Madison, Ohio. She does an AMAZING job and has really created an amazing operation that helps save many many furry lives. If you've got a minute, could you click through and cast a vote for her? I would appreciate it.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Democrats are "soft"
I've heard it said time and time again that Democrats are "soft" when it comes to election tactics. And yes, this Presidential campaign has illustrated distinct differences in campaign styles. McCain/Palin and company have given the Obama/Biden campaign PLENTY of opportunity to knock them down a peg or two. And time and time again, they have taken the high road. It has been frustrating for me because I generally want my guy to win...at all cost. But Michelle Obama gave a speech at the Women's Leadership Forum in Chicago, that gives me a valuable reminder...and makes me feel the pride that comes from NOT selling your soul in order to win an election.
There are still 25 days left until election day. And a lot can happen in 25 days. And, look, we are facing a tough opponent who is running a tough campaign. So we have to stay focused on what we're fighting for. And that's a better country for our families...and it's a better future for our children...that's the fight.
There are serious issues at stake here. And they demand a serious conversation. So even as the pressure builds and election day grows closer, we can't forget that we're all in this together. Democrats, Republicans, Independents, all of us. We're all facing the same future...and we will rise and fall together...just like we always have in this country. So, see, we can't afford to turn on each other now.
Like us, we know that our opponents have strong views. And we respect those views. We respect their right to argue for their ideas with vigor and with passion. But we can disagree without becoming disagreeable. We can challenge one anothers' positions without challenging each others patriotism. We can have a great debate about how to lead this country without suggesting that anyone doesn't love this country.
You see, we ALL love this country. That's why we're doing this. We want to help keep America strong...and fair...and free. A place where everyone has the opportunity to pursue their dreams. And haven't we had enough of politics that divide us? Don't we owe it to each other to be better than that? So, let's live by example for a change. Let's keep fighting for what we believe in without ever resorting to tearing each other down.
Report card time
No grades for the first six weeks of first grade (yeah, I thought so too).
Samuel is keeping with the class nicely. He can decode short vowel words. He can also read short three words sentences fluently. Please make flashcards to practice at home. There is a word list included in this report card. I also encourage students to practice reading every night. Samuel can print neatly. He can also count to at least 26. I hope that Samuel works hard and has a wonderful school year.
Satisfactory Effort
Social Studies
Science
Physical Education
Art
Music
Needs some improvement
Listens to and follows directions
Works independently
Controls talking
Practices self control
I have suspected for a while that Sam is bored in class. When I ask him what they do all day, he says, "Stupid homework" (meaning worksheets). I just asked him what they do when/if they finish their worksheets early and he said they are allowed to sit at their desks and read a book...or get up and go play quietly with blocks or legos or puzzles. Now tell me (please) your opinions of this. Is it just me who finds this a bit...off?
Samuel is keeping with the class nicely. He can decode short vowel words. He can also read short three words sentences fluently. Please make flashcards to practice at home. There is a word list included in this report card. I also encourage students to practice reading every night. Samuel can print neatly. He can also count to at least 26. I hope that Samuel works hard and has a wonderful school year.
Satisfactory Effort
Social Studies
Science
Physical Education
Art
Music
Needs some improvement
Listens to and follows directions
Works independently
Controls talking
Practices self control
I have suspected for a while that Sam is bored in class. When I ask him what they do all day, he says, "Stupid homework" (meaning worksheets). I just asked him what they do when/if they finish their worksheets early and he said they are allowed to sit at their desks and read a book...or get up and go play quietly with blocks or legos or puzzles. Now tell me (please) your opinions of this. Is it just me who finds this a bit...off?
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Friday, October 10, 2008
Frugal Friday
Walgreens:
2 Shout liquid spray
2 Walgreens brand children's ibuprofen liquid
1 40-count Tampax
2 Lindt chocolate bars
---------------------------
$9.09 out of pocket
$20.01 saved
CVS #1
Mylanta Max
Bic Soleil
Sudafed 48 tablets
Always infinity 18-count
Tylenol Cold Head Congestion 24-count
Tylenol Cold Head Congestion Day/Night combo 24-count
---------------------------
$16.13 out of pocket
$27.86 saved
CVS #2
2 6-packs Similac 8oz ready to feed
5 32oz Similac ready to feed
---------------------------
$25.45 out of pocket
$28.98 saved
Grocery store:
$84.38 out of pocket (including dog food)
$36.45 saved
I am so glad there was a good deal on cold/sinus medications. *sniffle* *sniffle* *sniffle*
2 Shout liquid spray
2 Walgreens brand children's ibuprofen liquid
1 40-count Tampax
2 Lindt chocolate bars
---------------------------
$9.09 out of pocket
$20.01 saved
CVS #1
Mylanta Max
Bic Soleil
Sudafed 48 tablets
Always infinity 18-count
Tylenol Cold Head Congestion 24-count
Tylenol Cold Head Congestion Day/Night combo 24-count
---------------------------
$16.13 out of pocket
$27.86 saved
CVS #2
2 6-packs Similac 8oz ready to feed
5 32oz Similac ready to feed
---------------------------
$25.45 out of pocket
$28.98 saved
Grocery store:
$84.38 out of pocket (including dog food)
$36.45 saved
I am so glad there was a good deal on cold/sinus medications. *sniffle* *sniffle* *sniffle*
Ohio Scholarships
If you know of any Ohio high school seniors who are going to college and looking for financial assistance, please pass on this information...
Ohio Township Association 2009 Scholarship Application
Three $1,500 scholarships available in two categories of Academic Achievement and Local Government Achievement. The deadline for applications is January 28th.
Ohio Township Association 2009 Scholarship Application
Three $1,500 scholarships available in two categories of Academic Achievement and Local Government Achievement. The deadline for applications is January 28th.
Thursday, October 09, 2008
Welcome to the world Baby Holdyn!
Congratulations to Birdie's Mama and Daddy on the safe arrival of baby Holdyn on October 3, 2008...weighing 6lbs 14oz and measuring 20 1/2 inches long. He is beautiful and my heart is so full of happiness for the entire family.
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
I'll pencil it in at 2am
There are so many things I want to do that don't get done. I intend to work on things and somehow time just slips by and I haven't done a thing. Where does it all go? My list grows by the minute...things I need to do...things I should do...things I want to do...
I have good intentions. Really. But I find myself overwhelmed by the sheer length of my to-do list. It's strange how I feel like I should force myself to participate more fully in my own life. But I'm just so daggone tired, so anything but the simplest of activities just seems like a colossal effort.
Know what I did yesterday? While at Sam's soccer practice, I read a book...for fun! No election law. No contracts to review. No competitive bid specifications to draft. It was decadent and I loved every second of it (I didn't even fall asleep). I need to do more of that...but it loses some of its appeal when I have to find time to schedule it. It's a catch-22.
I know, I know...if only we all had such problems...
I have good intentions. Really. But I find myself overwhelmed by the sheer length of my to-do list. It's strange how I feel like I should force myself to participate more fully in my own life. But I'm just so daggone tired, so anything but the simplest of activities just seems like a colossal effort.
Know what I did yesterday? While at Sam's soccer practice, I read a book...for fun! No election law. No contracts to review. No competitive bid specifications to draft. It was decadent and I loved every second of it (I didn't even fall asleep). I need to do more of that...but it loses some of its appeal when I have to find time to schedule it. It's a catch-22.
I know, I know...if only we all had such problems...
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
More politics I don't understand
How is it going to work, this proposed "renegotiating home mortgages based upon lowered home values?" Can anyone explain this in simplistic terms my brain can handle?
Here's how I understand it right now as it might be applied to me...
The bank takes a loss on my over-valued mortgage. My home value is lowered and I renegotiate my mortgage based on this lowered value. I the meantime, my county loses property tax revenue. My office can no longer afford to pay me because we no longer have that property tax revenue and I lose my job and can't paid my renegotiated mortgage. So the bank takes a loss on the first mortgage, a loss on the second mortgage when I declare bankruptcy, and the credit crisis gets BETTER because of this?
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And really...if nuclear power is so safe, I propose the politicians live in a house near a nuclear power plant or near the Yucca Mountain nuclear waste repository. I mean, it's SAFE, right? Yes, I'm particularly sensitive to this issue at this given moment. But I think we ALL should be sensitive to it. We are unnecessarily creating problems that will be passed on to future generations.
-------------------------------
Social Security is easy to fix? Why haven't you fixed it then?
-------------------------------
McCain called Obama, "that one." Real nice.
-------------------------------
Here's how I understand it right now as it might be applied to me...
The bank takes a loss on my over-valued mortgage. My home value is lowered and I renegotiate my mortgage based on this lowered value. I the meantime, my county loses property tax revenue. My office can no longer afford to pay me because we no longer have that property tax revenue and I lose my job and can't paid my renegotiated mortgage. So the bank takes a loss on the first mortgage, a loss on the second mortgage when I declare bankruptcy, and the credit crisis gets BETTER because of this?
-------------------------------
And really...if nuclear power is so safe, I propose the politicians live in a house near a nuclear power plant or near the Yucca Mountain nuclear waste repository. I mean, it's SAFE, right? Yes, I'm particularly sensitive to this issue at this given moment. But I think we ALL should be sensitive to it. We are unnecessarily creating problems that will be passed on to future generations.
-------------------------------
Social Security is easy to fix? Why haven't you fixed it then?
-------------------------------
McCain called Obama, "that one." Real nice.
-------------------------------
Monday, October 06, 2008
I do not understand
HOW, in light of the news this past week, HOW do you argue for more reliance on markets for health care?
Unless I'm missing something, a $5000 tax credit isn't going to cover a $12,000 insurance plan. I'm pretty sure deregulation hasn't helped my cable television bill or my retirement investments...so this concept scares me.
Don't Pennsylvania and California have pretty good public plans that covers children? So it is possible, right? Help me understand. Educate me. Anyone?
Unless I'm missing something, a $5000 tax credit isn't going to cover a $12,000 insurance plan. I'm pretty sure deregulation hasn't helped my cable television bill or my retirement investments...so this concept scares me.
Don't Pennsylvania and California have pretty good public plans that covers children? So it is possible, right? Help me understand. Educate me. Anyone?
Thank you Secret Pal!
My Secret Pal has been revealed! Normally, this event would not yield much fanfare, but I clicked over to Kim's blog and was met with the 2008 Knitter's Hunk - Hugh Jackman. Seriously! Knitting and GORGEOUS MEN! Even before I knew who she was, I knew I liked this lady. And it has nothing to do with the fact that she sent me LOADS of really awesome stuff! Did you KNOW they make chocolate Skittles? I did not. I can't wait to break them open and (over)indulge!
Seriously, Kim, you outdid yourself this round of SP and I can't thank you enough. It was so much fun finding little treasures in my mailbox during the past few months. My mom and I already have plans to do the sock monkey baby set from the Happy Hooker book for my brother's baby. I'll post pics of my progress on Ravelry (and here, if I remember). Thanks again! (I have never seen that shape crochet hook, but I will definitely review them as soon as I get to use them...they feel good initially...we'll see if it lasts)
Seriously, Kim, you outdid yourself this round of SP and I can't thank you enough. It was so much fun finding little treasures in my mailbox during the past few months. My mom and I already have plans to do the sock monkey baby set from the Happy Hooker book for my brother's baby. I'll post pics of my progress on Ravelry (and here, if I remember). Thanks again! (I have never seen that shape crochet hook, but I will definitely review them as soon as I get to use them...they feel good initially...we'll see if it lasts)
Miscellaneous thoughts - Monday edition
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Sam - strep throat
Myles - ear infection
Mommy - needs more wine
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Nonprofit rule #1 : Never turn away a volunteer. Put them to work.
Nonprofit rule #2 : If you call a potential volunteer and ask them to attend a "special event," at least know what the special event is and be able to answer questions about it.
------------------------------------
A campfire, some lawn chairs, and a starry sky make for a lovely family evening.
------------------------------------
I am really disappointed with Sam's soccer experience this year. His coach was taking phone calls on his cell phone at halftime, if that tells you anything about his coaching. My mom even noted that the other team's coach was really out there giving pointers and coaching while ours just stood there. Sam needs encouragement to do new things...he does not have an overly adventurous spirit. This coach is doing nothing to get him excited about the game.
------------------------------------
Sam never crawled. He went straight from laying around like a worm to "cruising the furniture" while standing up. So this new experience of a mobile 10-month-old is kind of frightening. I spend a good bit of time following him around catching him before he gets into trouble. I can't turn my back on him for more than ten seconds or he is gone.
------------------------------------
Remember the mice? Yesterday we found where they had been hiding prior to their living room adventures. My craft closet. Thankfully, my expensive yarn was not touched and it appears, after careful sifting, that they only stayed OUTSIDE of my storage containers (a big thank you to my friend Dana for showing me the way of Rubbermaid tubs). Let me tell you, nothing strikes fear into the heart of a stitcher more than the sight of mouse poop outside the box holding her $60 worth of pure alpaca yarn.
------------------------------------
A drive to Democrat headquarters the other night led to an amazingly insightful conversation with my six-year-old son. I hope he always remains so thoughtful and well-reasoned.
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This cracks me up.
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There doesn't seem to be time for anything these days. Between soccer and cub scouts and work (and work-related crap) and illness...I barely seem to have time to breathe. My house is in shambles. When the baby crawls on the floor, he comes up looking like an orphan child covered in dirt and dog hair. And there's nothing I can do about it at the moment because the canister on the very expensive vacuum cleaner has come apart and we can't figure out how to get it back together. Anyone with a Dyson...how in the h*** do you get the lid to the canister back on?!?! Thanks.
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Sarah Palin wants to talk about the associates of the presidential candidates. OK...Let's talk.
Oh...and found this tidbit on a blog I read...
An Investment Banking “Factoid"
• Up until 2003, all investment banks were limited to 12 to 1 leverage
• In 2004, the SEC gave 5 investment banks the ability to lever up to as much as 40 to 1
• The 5 investment banks were:
• Bear Stearns (acquired by JP Morgan Chase)
• Lehman Brothers (Bankrupt)
• Merrill Lynch (acquired by Bank of America)
• Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs (converted to a bank holding companies)
------------------------------------
Sam - strep throat
Myles - ear infection
Mommy - needs more wine
------------------------------------
Nonprofit rule #1 : Never turn away a volunteer. Put them to work.
Nonprofit rule #2 : If you call a potential volunteer and ask them to attend a "special event," at least know what the special event is and be able to answer questions about it.
------------------------------------
A campfire, some lawn chairs, and a starry sky make for a lovely family evening.
------------------------------------
I am really disappointed with Sam's soccer experience this year. His coach was taking phone calls on his cell phone at halftime, if that tells you anything about his coaching. My mom even noted that the other team's coach was really out there giving pointers and coaching while ours just stood there. Sam needs encouragement to do new things...he does not have an overly adventurous spirit. This coach is doing nothing to get him excited about the game.
------------------------------------
Sam never crawled. He went straight from laying around like a worm to "cruising the furniture" while standing up. So this new experience of a mobile 10-month-old is kind of frightening. I spend a good bit of time following him around catching him before he gets into trouble. I can't turn my back on him for more than ten seconds or he is gone.
------------------------------------
Remember the mice? Yesterday we found where they had been hiding prior to their living room adventures. My craft closet. Thankfully, my expensive yarn was not touched and it appears, after careful sifting, that they only stayed OUTSIDE of my storage containers (a big thank you to my friend Dana for showing me the way of Rubbermaid tubs). Let me tell you, nothing strikes fear into the heart of a stitcher more than the sight of mouse poop outside the box holding her $60 worth of pure alpaca yarn.
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A drive to Democrat headquarters the other night led to an amazingly insightful conversation with my six-year-old son. I hope he always remains so thoughtful and well-reasoned.
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This cracks me up.
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There doesn't seem to be time for anything these days. Between soccer and cub scouts and work (and work-related crap) and illness...I barely seem to have time to breathe. My house is in shambles. When the baby crawls on the floor, he comes up looking like an orphan child covered in dirt and dog hair. And there's nothing I can do about it at the moment because the canister on the very expensive vacuum cleaner has come apart and we can't figure out how to get it back together. Anyone with a Dyson...how in the h*** do you get the lid to the canister back on?!?! Thanks.
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Sarah Palin wants to talk about the associates of the presidential candidates. OK...Let's talk.
Oh...and found this tidbit on a blog I read...
An Investment Banking “Factoid"
• Up until 2003, all investment banks were limited to 12 to 1 leverage
• In 2004, the SEC gave 5 investment banks the ability to lever up to as much as 40 to 1
• The 5 investment banks were:
• Bear Stearns (acquired by JP Morgan Chase)
• Lehman Brothers (Bankrupt)
• Merrill Lynch (acquired by Bank of America)
• Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs (converted to a bank holding companies)
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Friday, October 03, 2008
Frugal Friday
CVS
2 8-packs of Bounty Paper Towels
Cover Girl Clean Foundation
Cover Girl Clean Pressed Powder
2 Revlon Lip Gloss
Bag Hershey's Cacao Reserve Dark Chocolate Truffles
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$12.81 out of pocket
$35.02 saved
RITE AID
2 Bags Hershey's Bliss Dark Chocolate
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On sale for 2/$5 for $0 out of pocket
GIANT EAGLE (grocery)
6lbs ground beef
4 Old El Paso Flour Tortillas
4 Old El Paso Hard Taco Dinner Kits
1 Old El Paso Hard & Soft Taco Dinner Kit
4 Bags Giant Eagle Shredded Cheddar
2 Bags Giant Eagle Shredded Mozzarella
24-pack Caffeine Free Diet Pepsi (cube)
1 Oral-B toothbrush
2 4-packs Dannon Activia Yogurt
1 Gogurt
2 D-Con Mousetraps
1 Ziploc quart size freezer bags
1 can Kool Aid singles
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$77.13 out of pocket
$15.64 saved + $3 off my next order
2 8-packs of Bounty Paper Towels
Cover Girl Clean Foundation
Cover Girl Clean Pressed Powder
2 Revlon Lip Gloss
Bag Hershey's Cacao Reserve Dark Chocolate Truffles
-----------------------
$12.81 out of pocket
$35.02 saved
RITE AID
2 Bags Hershey's Bliss Dark Chocolate
-----------------------
On sale for 2/$5 for $0 out of pocket
GIANT EAGLE (grocery)
6lbs ground beef
4 Old El Paso Flour Tortillas
4 Old El Paso Hard Taco Dinner Kits
1 Old El Paso Hard & Soft Taco Dinner Kit
4 Bags Giant Eagle Shredded Cheddar
2 Bags Giant Eagle Shredded Mozzarella
24-pack Caffeine Free Diet Pepsi (cube)
1 Oral-B toothbrush
2 4-packs Dannon Activia Yogurt
1 Gogurt
2 D-Con Mousetraps
1 Ziploc quart size freezer bags
1 can Kool Aid singles
-----------------------
$77.13 out of pocket
$15.64 saved + $3 off my next order
Thursday, October 02, 2008
Vote NO on Issue 19
Today's mail has buoyed my spirits regarding our house/landfill situation. I can't re-print it here because it is two pages, front and back, with color photos of what the dump actually looks like. I would say that the most effective bit is the large font question, "Do You Want 75 Years and 400 Acres of This in Your Community?" underneath two very nasty photos of a mountain of trash. I HOPE people think about this question before they vote.
But more than that, I hope that they understand that allowing this to go forward means our zoning authority is for sale. Those who toss the most money around can get whatever they want and those of us without any money will be forced to submit to their wishes. Nobody will be safe.
But more than that, I hope that they understand that allowing this to go forward means our zoning authority is for sale. Those who toss the most money around can get whatever they want and those of us without any money will be forced to submit to their wishes. Nobody will be safe.
Political oops
No American mayor resides in a city closer to Russia than Andrew Milligrock, and he says being two miles from Russia doesn’t give him any foreign policy expertise.Link
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