Lucy is our mild child. Thank goodness. When I say mild, I don't mean she's sedate...or even obedient, entirely. We don't seem to have the genes for that in our family. By mild, I mean that Lucy sleeps all night. She rolls with the punches. When trouble befalls her, she just picks up and moves on.
At lunch bunch this week, Lucy and several toddlers were be-bopping down the stairs together when a slowdown of traffic occurred. I'm not sure who fell first, but suddenly several tiny people bumbled down the steps. I heard Lucy's friend, Bam-Bam cry, and then moments later, we heard a loud WHACK. Lucy had fallen head-first into the corner of a wooden column. Lucy cried for a few moments, but in pure Lucy fashion, she pretty much struggled to get free and continue playing as I attempted to press cloth onto her forehead and stop the bleeding (which, incidentally, was not as profuse as I would have expected).
Maybe because Lucy was so calm, or maybe because I'm sick of being in a waiting room with kids, I didn't really see the need to go to the doctor. As the bleeding slowed, the other mothers gathered around Lucy in a flurry of concern. "Stitches!" they proclaimed. "Band-aid glue!" they offered. Suddenly, everyone wanted to help and my son was carted away from the scene and I was on the road to the ER again.
I'm convinced that Lu is the most easy-going toddler the doctors have ever stitched up. She sat in my arms, holding bunny baby and sucking her thumb, practically unrestrained, as the doctor sewed a needle through her forehead---twice. And then she said, "Thank you, doctor!" as he left the room.
05 December 2008
21 November 2008
What the Teacher Says
I just returned from Lucy's playgroup, where several of the moms discussed recent parent-teacher conferences for their pre-schoolers. Don't teachers know that moms (especially first-time ones) get worked up about these information sessions? Don't they know we all want to hear a little bit of good about our children with the bad?
The theme of several of these conferences seemed to be turning introverted kids into extroverts. The moms involved felt badly, as if they hadn't done a good enough job socializing their child in pre-school preparation. What? Pre-school preparation? Taught socialization? Aren't some of these things supposed to be natural?
For moms out there with shy children, don't fret. You child is not alone, and is not even a minority in being shy. Almost ALL the kids in Tommy's pre-school class are introverted. They are little sweethearts who have to warm up to someone before answering questions or giving a hug. And this is not a bad thing.
I have often said my kids could use a good shot o' shy. They would walk away with any stranger who had candy or promised them a quarter to ride the mall fire engine.
Sigh. If only the teachers knew how much of our time is spent worrying. Perhaps they'd change their tactics...
The theme of several of these conferences seemed to be turning introverted kids into extroverts. The moms involved felt badly, as if they hadn't done a good enough job socializing their child in pre-school preparation. What? Pre-school preparation? Taught socialization? Aren't some of these things supposed to be natural?
For moms out there with shy children, don't fret. You child is not alone, and is not even a minority in being shy. Almost ALL the kids in Tommy's pre-school class are introverted. They are little sweethearts who have to warm up to someone before answering questions or giving a hug. And this is not a bad thing.
I have often said my kids could use a good shot o' shy. They would walk away with any stranger who had candy or promised them a quarter to ride the mall fire engine.
Sigh. If only the teachers knew how much of our time is spent worrying. Perhaps they'd change their tactics...
20 November 2008
Talking Phenom
Don't tell everyone I'm bragging, but Lucy really is a talking phenom. Here are some of the things she's said to me in the last 24 hours. Remember---she's only 21 months.
"I want Mommy's cereal! I'm hungry!!"
"Jimmy's crying, Mom. Why??"
"I want a drink!! All gone. Want more!!"
"Where Tommy go? Tommy's at school."
Seriously, people. Just sign her up for Genius Club.
"I want Mommy's cereal! I'm hungry!!"
"Jimmy's crying, Mom. Why??"
"I want a drink!! All gone. Want more!!"
"Where Tommy go? Tommy's at school."
Seriously, people. Just sign her up for Genius Club.
Growing Up
The other night, Tommy and I went on our usual adventure to the library. Except it wasn't usual, because the winter had darkened the skies. And we were alone. We are rarely alone in the car, Tommy and I. Usually there's a Jimmy screaming and a snooking Lucy along.
Tommy was nervous about the darkness. "It's nighttime, Mom! The library will be locked." He was surprised when I grabbed his hand and we raced past the dried-up fountain into the warm light of an open library.
We read together, late at night. Tommy snuggled into my lap and chose a book about tigers and another about an umbrella. This second book was written unusually, in broken English, from the perspective of a Japanese immigrant. She wrote about her daughter's first umbrella, something she longed to use. Something she waited for and finally attained.
And then, in the end, the broken English revealed something that clutched at my heart: in using her umbrella the first time, this little girl had her first experience of walking up and down the streets without holding either her mom and dad's hand.
And then I realized that Tommy has already had that experience this fall, without me even consciously planning it.
Where does it go? How do kids make that leap from toddler to kid? He did it when I wasn't looking. He did it by taking screwdrivers to the underside of telephone cradles, to figure out how they worked. He did it by sneaking baking chocolates upstairs, not knowing his stealthy move wouldn't be tasty. He did it by running off to school each morning, unafraid, into Mrs. McDonald's room to learn about God and frogs and sharing.
He's a real boy now.
Tommy was nervous about the darkness. "It's nighttime, Mom! The library will be locked." He was surprised when I grabbed his hand and we raced past the dried-up fountain into the warm light of an open library.
We read together, late at night. Tommy snuggled into my lap and chose a book about tigers and another about an umbrella. This second book was written unusually, in broken English, from the perspective of a Japanese immigrant. She wrote about her daughter's first umbrella, something she longed to use. Something she waited for and finally attained.
And then, in the end, the broken English revealed something that clutched at my heart: in using her umbrella the first time, this little girl had her first experience of walking up and down the streets without holding either her mom and dad's hand.
And then I realized that Tommy has already had that experience this fall, without me even consciously planning it.
Where does it go? How do kids make that leap from toddler to kid? He did it when I wasn't looking. He did it by taking screwdrivers to the underside of telephone cradles, to figure out how they worked. He did it by sneaking baking chocolates upstairs, not knowing his stealthy move wouldn't be tasty. He did it by running off to school each morning, unafraid, into Mrs. McDonald's room to learn about God and frogs and sharing.
He's a real boy now.
08 November 2008
Cuatro
Dear Jimmy,
My sweetheart is four months old! I know you are growing because your strong legs have lengthened, and your skinny fingers seem almost as long as Lucy's. You are kicking and moving your arms all the time. You haven't rolled over since your first few rolls, but I bet you will be back to that in no time.
This month has been exciting for all of us, as you've become more animated and interested in the world around you. You laugh for Daddy, and you squeal when Lucy or Tommy run to your side. They love to sit by you when you're exercising underneath your new Scary Bear equipment. Of course, Mama is still your No. 1. I have that captivating affect on babies when I'm their sole nourishment. :)
While you've been practicing moving and making new sounds, the rest of the country has been preoccupied with the recent presidential election. Although Dad and I didn't vote for him, President-elect Barack Obama is surely making history in our nation as the first African American on his way to the oval office. We disagree with some of his policies, but we can not deny that this feat is an amazing step towards acknowledging the dignity shared by all human life. Hopefully that theme can continue on in many ways through his term.
The world has changed in many ways since your birth, Jimmy. People are worried right now for the future. The economy is in a slump unseen since the Great Depression. We don't really know how bad things could get, or when they will improve.
One thing that hasn't changed, though, is that the gift of life---in the form of a baby---can life spirits and bring joy. Wherever I take you, people sigh and smile to see your tiny form. Whenever you gurgle, you melt away a bit of discontent and offer us older souls a small, new beginning. I suppose this is reflected, too, in your Baptism.
It is late, my Jimmy. You are sleeping soundly upstairs, sucking your fingers and perfectly content in your bassinet. Daddy and Tom and Lucy sleep, too, and that I shall do in a moment.
But I love you, Jimmy. I want you to know that even when I'm exhausted and tired, my heart is beating for you. My little Jimster. It seems to go faster all the time.
Yours,
Mama
05 November 2008
A Life-Changing Morning
From my Facebook status:
Anne just broke the news to Tommy. I tried to tell him Obama was a good man, but he claimed, "I don't WANT that man!! I want John McCain!!"
Anne just broke the news to Tommy. I tried to tell him Obama was a good man, but he claimed, "I don't WANT that man!! I want John McCain!!"
04 November 2008
An Attempt
Sometimes I long for adult conversation during the day.
Me: So, Tom, who do you think will be our next president?
Tom: [sighs] I don't want to talk about it!!!
Me: [waiting to hear profound insight] Why not?
Tom: I'm eating these goldfish!!!
Me: So, Tom, who do you think will be our next president?
Tom: [sighs] I don't want to talk about it!!!
Me: [waiting to hear profound insight] Why not?
Tom: I'm eating these goldfish!!!
29 October 2008
Behavior Corrections Facility
I once heard that in order for a kid to get used to a particular new food, you have to put it in front of him a dozen times. That may not seem like a lot, but a dozen times really IS a lot in the scheme of meal rotation.
I have come to see the truth in this, and I believe the theory should also be extended---perhaps to the infinite degree---to include toddler behavior correction. Before I became a mom, no one ever told me that I would spend the whole day telling shut-ears not to jump on the couch.
But it makes a difference. I really believe it does. I now understand that my kids greet people in public because they have learned this behavior. Just this morning, Tommy sat absorbed in The Incredibles, quite obtuse to the fact that Lucy had woken up and joined us for the day. It took me about 3 reminders for Tommy to say, "Good morning" to her. And finally, when he did, Lucy's face lit up and she bubbled along like the Goose tends to do.
Maybe this sort of obsessive correction is what we really need in the other behavioral facilities.
I have come to see the truth in this, and I believe the theory should also be extended---perhaps to the infinite degree---to include toddler behavior correction. Before I became a mom, no one ever told me that I would spend the whole day telling shut-ears not to jump on the couch.
But it makes a difference. I really believe it does. I now understand that my kids greet people in public because they have learned this behavior. Just this morning, Tommy sat absorbed in The Incredibles, quite obtuse to the fact that Lucy had woken up and joined us for the day. It took me about 3 reminders for Tommy to say, "Good morning" to her. And finally, when he did, Lucy's face lit up and she bubbled along like the Goose tends to do.
Maybe this sort of obsessive correction is what we really need in the other behavioral facilities.
Whoooooosh
Such is the sound of Tommy running out of the bathroom. He's always in a hurry to get the job done. Lately, he's developed an amusing fear of listening to the toilet flush. In our small downstairs bathroom, he holds onto the door handle while flushing the toilet so that he can flush and shut the door as quickly as possible.
07 October 2008
Forward and Back: 3 Months
Dear Jimmy,
My littlest bug. You are 3 months old tomorrow, and already, your namesake, my Grandpa, is gone.
Grandpa lived his 86 years to their fullest potential, and so, my Jimmy, you have a large legacy to maintain. Will you raise a generation of children? Will you work in the yard, toiling and snowblowing into your final year? Will you concoct a precise system for growing perfect tomatoes using PVC pipe, old t-shirts, and (pointedly vacant) recycling bins?
We were lucky to visit with Grandpa in the final month of his life. I wanted you to know him, Jimmy: to understand the thrill of riding the handmade, backyard swing at lightening speed, and to marvel that it had its own telephone. To run into the dining room and pause to select your favorite of treats from the candy shoppe. To taste the tangy pickles. To laugh at the bird tweeting beautifully from above Grandpa's comfy chair.
Grandpa was a model for us all, really. Devoted as a husband, Grandpa understood what a full-time job his wife had in raising her many children. He kept the fun in their marriage by bowling with her on a regular basis, and by sweeping her away to Nevis for vacation in their later, child-rearing years. I imagine their romance was alive til the end... I will never forget the snap of Grandma's purse opening or closing as she reached in to retrieve her standby shade of precise red lipstick.
A life pulses and breathes, Jimmy. And at its end, a life catches us off-guard, filling our hearts with memory and beauty and wonder.
I hope I can be a mother as he was a father. He kept his arms and home open to his children, showing us all how parenting only grows with children, never ceasing. Nothing could surprise Grandpa. By his final years, he had seen every joy and tragedy of life. He took a look at you, Jimmy, and said, "He looks like he'll make it." Then he waited for the next great joy of life to come, and it did. The birth of Peter, the conception of another great-grandchild.
Though I hated pregnancy, Grandpa never understood why I wanted it to end. After all, kids are much less trouble on the inside, he told me. :)
I saw the wisdom in Grandpa's life. He built his home as he needed it, he indulged when it truly fancied him (which wasn't that often). He poured cream on his cereal and answered requests without pretenses. He didn't seem to worry about what others thought. And yet, he did invest in God. He faithfully cared for his family, and cared for his family to realize God is the source of all our life.
It seems fitting that in the last month of Grandpa's life, Jimmy, you were baptized at a church where he attended high school.
I know this month's letter is a lot about Grandpa and a little about you, Jimmy. But now that you're smiling and looking around and starting to understand this world,
I am sure you will see the beauty in that.
Love,
Mama
My littlest bug. You are 3 months old tomorrow, and already, your namesake, my Grandpa, is gone.
Grandpa lived his 86 years to their fullest potential, and so, my Jimmy, you have a large legacy to maintain. Will you raise a generation of children? Will you work in the yard, toiling and snowblowing into your final year? Will you concoct a precise system for growing perfect tomatoes using PVC pipe, old t-shirts, and (pointedly vacant) recycling bins?
We were lucky to visit with Grandpa in the final month of his life. I wanted you to know him, Jimmy: to understand the thrill of riding the handmade, backyard swing at lightening speed, and to marvel that it had its own telephone. To run into the dining room and pause to select your favorite of treats from the candy shoppe. To taste the tangy pickles. To laugh at the bird tweeting beautifully from above Grandpa's comfy chair.
Grandpa was a model for us all, really. Devoted as a husband, Grandpa understood what a full-time job his wife had in raising her many children. He kept the fun in their marriage by bowling with her on a regular basis, and by sweeping her away to Nevis for vacation in their later, child-rearing years. I imagine their romance was alive til the end... I will never forget the snap of Grandma's purse opening or closing as she reached in to retrieve her standby shade of precise red lipstick.
A life pulses and breathes, Jimmy. And at its end, a life catches us off-guard, filling our hearts with memory and beauty and wonder.
I hope I can be a mother as he was a father. He kept his arms and home open to his children, showing us all how parenting only grows with children, never ceasing. Nothing could surprise Grandpa. By his final years, he had seen every joy and tragedy of life. He took a look at you, Jimmy, and said, "He looks like he'll make it." Then he waited for the next great joy of life to come, and it did. The birth of Peter, the conception of another great-grandchild.
Though I hated pregnancy, Grandpa never understood why I wanted it to end. After all, kids are much less trouble on the inside, he told me. :)
I saw the wisdom in Grandpa's life. He built his home as he needed it, he indulged when it truly fancied him (which wasn't that often). He poured cream on his cereal and answered requests without pretenses. He didn't seem to worry about what others thought. And yet, he did invest in God. He faithfully cared for his family, and cared for his family to realize God is the source of all our life.
It seems fitting that in the last month of Grandpa's life, Jimmy, you were baptized at a church where he attended high school.
I know this month's letter is a lot about Grandpa and a little about you, Jimmy. But now that you're smiling and looking around and starting to understand this world,
I am sure you will see the beauty in that.
Love,
Mama
16 September 2008
Two Scenes
Scene I:
It is before dawn, and the room is still. A thick drowsiness hangs in the air. There is the faint smell of slumber and a calming blue on the walls. You trip as you stumble through the room. There are a dozen pillows tucked into every corner. There are ten tiny blankets strewn on the floor.
Scene II:
It is after lunch, and the hallway is empty. The curtains have been drawn in each room upstairs, and the quiet buzz of fans calls you into slumber. Every toy is in its place, and a book of nursery rhymes awaits on the couch. It is peaceful. It smells clean and fresh and relieving, nourishing.
These are the scenes that repeat day in and day out. I hope I never forget them. The first seems so fleeting; it is just this period of early morning after feeding a newborn, when the bedroom is "undone" and no one has slept much through the night. The second is more regular, a picture of how I prepare the upstairs for naptime.
It is before dawn, and the room is still. A thick drowsiness hangs in the air. There is the faint smell of slumber and a calming blue on the walls. You trip as you stumble through the room. There are a dozen pillows tucked into every corner. There are ten tiny blankets strewn on the floor.
Scene II:
It is after lunch, and the hallway is empty. The curtains have been drawn in each room upstairs, and the quiet buzz of fans calls you into slumber. Every toy is in its place, and a book of nursery rhymes awaits on the couch. It is peaceful. It smells clean and fresh and relieving, nourishing.
These are the scenes that repeat day in and day out. I hope I never forget them. The first seems so fleeting; it is just this period of early morning after feeding a newborn, when the bedroom is "undone" and no one has slept much through the night. The second is more regular, a picture of how I prepare the upstairs for naptime.
11 September 2008
Insufficient Extremities
Some tasks are hard to do 1-handed. I've learned to type while nursing a baby, and to occasionally stir a pot. But this morning, Jimmy was screaming because Lucy woke up and insisted on trying out her new potty skills again...potty-training should not be combined with feeding, 1-handed or otherwise. Then, imagine you're nursing while your 2 toddlers are scarfing down syrup-drenched waffles. One dumps her milk out, and then they both try to bolt from the table with stickiness oozing everywhere.
Sigh.
I feel for poor Jimmy. He is forced to take breaks from eating often...in the sticky situations I encounter such as the one outlined above, or in violent situations such as when one sibling is biting or attacking another, or in potty fiascos, or...well, any number of daily, momentary crises.
Hopefully, this will not greatly affect his outlook on life.
Sigh.
I feel for poor Jimmy. He is forced to take breaks from eating often...in the sticky situations I encounter such as the one outlined above, or in violent situations such as when one sibling is biting or attacking another, or in potty fiascos, or...well, any number of daily, momentary crises.
Hopefully, this will not greatly affect his outlook on life.
08 September 2008
Life in Mc D-O-N-A-L-D-S World
Today marked a new and exciting phase in our eldest's life. Tommy started pre-school! I will post picture later of Tommy proudly sporting his Twins backpack, heading into school looking excited and ready to take on the world. I thought maybe his nerves would get the better of him, but this weekend, he told me, "Mom, Mrs. McDonald will be excited to see me tomorrow!"
This enthusiasm was a change from last week, when before meeting his teacher, he wondered whether she would actually be Ronald McDonald...?
My heart nearly melted to send Tommy away on his new adventure. I don't know who was most excited in the family. John and I were ridiculously proud to note that Tom was the only kid in his class to be able to identify his name on the take-home paper bin and the star name board. Tom was ridiculously proud to unzip his backpack and show us his first art project, a heart proclaiming God's love. Lucy was tickled to have our complete attention for several hours and Jimmy...well, Jimmy actually slept through most of the transition.
As John told me a few weeks ago, once school begins, there's no turning back. I can already hear Tommy telling us, "Oh, this is how Mrs. McDONald says to wash your hands..." or "Miss Amy says we have to wear shoes at the park." No longer are we the only primary influence in Tommy's life. In fact, his teachers' new authority will probably usurp the limited excitement we provide. We'll be replaced.
All this knowledge has whirled through my brain as we've prepared this last week for D-Day. We made the drop-off early, and circled the preschool at 11:15 AM so as not to be too early for the 11:30 pick-up. I needn't have worried too much about being replaced.
It turned out Tommy loved preschool, and also loved sharing his new stage of development with us. He ran into my arms, delighted to chatter with me about the Magic Bean game and the turn-around, turn-around. In his sparkling eyes, I can see that he relives these memories, although he doesn't quite convey the details to me.
Preschool. It's supposed to be a bridge, isn't it? Somehow it seems like he's already crossed over from being our baby.
This enthusiasm was a change from last week, when before meeting his teacher, he wondered whether she would actually be Ronald McDonald...?
My heart nearly melted to send Tommy away on his new adventure. I don't know who was most excited in the family. John and I were ridiculously proud to note that Tom was the only kid in his class to be able to identify his name on the take-home paper bin and the star name board. Tom was ridiculously proud to unzip his backpack and show us his first art project, a heart proclaiming God's love. Lucy was tickled to have our complete attention for several hours and Jimmy...well, Jimmy actually slept through most of the transition.
As John told me a few weeks ago, once school begins, there's no turning back. I can already hear Tommy telling us, "Oh, this is how Mrs. McDONald says to wash your hands..." or "Miss Amy says we have to wear shoes at the park." No longer are we the only primary influence in Tommy's life. In fact, his teachers' new authority will probably usurp the limited excitement we provide. We'll be replaced.
All this knowledge has whirled through my brain as we've prepared this last week for D-Day. We made the drop-off early, and circled the preschool at 11:15 AM so as not to be too early for the 11:30 pick-up. I needn't have worried too much about being replaced.
It turned out Tommy loved preschool, and also loved sharing his new stage of development with us. He ran into my arms, delighted to chatter with me about the Magic Bean game and the turn-around, turn-around. In his sparkling eyes, I can see that he relives these memories, although he doesn't quite convey the details to me.
Preschool. It's supposed to be a bridge, isn't it? Somehow it seems like he's already crossed over from being our baby.
Month 2: Gone in a Moment
Dear Jimmy,
Two months old today. You're still a peanut, and when people notice you snuggled in my arms or the carseat, they almost always guess you're a newborn. You're filling out nicely from your original, wiry state, but you're still barely ten pounds. A lightweight. A snuggle bug.
Daddy is holding you now while you whimper and moan. It's about 9:30 PM, right in the middle of your colicky hours. Most nights, you fuss from 8 to 11 PM, giving your father and me a run for our money. Outside of these hours, though, you're a wonderful and easy baby. You're starting to smile more and more, delighting your siblings who love to kiss you whenever you enter a room. Your intially-spastic hand and leg movements (hey, that's how we all begin, Jimster) are becoming more controlled. You follow toys with your eyes and love to listen to music. Sometimes I put your little chair on the counter underneath my mounted radio and let you take in the tunes. (A secondary goal of this is to keep you up high and safely away from Tom and the Goose.)
Your brother started preschool today, and I bet both you and Lucy will benefit from his new independence. I'm eager to spend more quiet time with you and to learn what your wide eyes are learning.
I love you, my Jimmy!
Love, Mama
Two months old today. You're still a peanut, and when people notice you snuggled in my arms or the carseat, they almost always guess you're a newborn. You're filling out nicely from your original, wiry state, but you're still barely ten pounds. A lightweight. A snuggle bug.
Daddy is holding you now while you whimper and moan. It's about 9:30 PM, right in the middle of your colicky hours. Most nights, you fuss from 8 to 11 PM, giving your father and me a run for our money. Outside of these hours, though, you're a wonderful and easy baby. You're starting to smile more and more, delighting your siblings who love to kiss you whenever you enter a room. Your intially-spastic hand and leg movements (hey, that's how we all begin, Jimster) are becoming more controlled. You follow toys with your eyes and love to listen to music. Sometimes I put your little chair on the counter underneath my mounted radio and let you take in the tunes. (A secondary goal of this is to keep you up high and safely away from Tom and the Goose.)
Your brother started preschool today, and I bet both you and Lucy will benefit from his new independence. I'm eager to spend more quiet time with you and to learn what your wide eyes are learning.
I love you, my Jimmy!
Love, Mama
05 September 2008
4 Years of Wedded Bliss
...and more to come! Yesterday, John and I celebrated our 4th anniversary. It's hard to believe how quickly these years have flown by; it seems like yesterday that John took me by the hand and we promised to make this life together. I can still see the youth and promise in his eyes.
After sneaking a peek through the locked doors of our 1920s-era reception site, The Commodore, John and I had a fabulous dinner at W.A. Frost in Saint Paul. It was an especially meaningful location because we hadn't been there since our wedding day, when we stopped by to sip champagne on their gorgeous patio between our ceremony and reception. Last night, the weather was a bit cool for an entire dinner on the patio, so we moved inside and reminisced about that day and the many that have followed. John proposed an amusing conversation of our marriage highlights and lowlights---by year. We laughed and inebriated ourselves, touching back to this topic throughout mixed drinks, champagne, and Spanish red.
The food and company were both exquisite. We started with a cheese plate, and did learn that unpasteurized goat cheese varies from our pasteurized love. (I believe we compared it to stinky sweat socks.) Next, we each had a salad and John's was a surprising, delicious blend of watermelon and (pasteurized) goat cheese with a balsamic garlic vinaigrette and pistachios. I will have to try to recreate that one. We shared the filet as an entree, and it was heaven-sent. I can still taste the light, mascarpone polenta in my mind this morning. For dessert, there was a trio to try---our favorites were a rhubarb strawberry cobbler and a crunchy, rich creme brulee. One of these days I'll take out a blowtorch and give that a go, too.
Though our house is 99% chaos right now, I am thankful each day to have John as a husband. It is not every man who takes his family so seriously, who loves his wife with tender devotion, who does the laundry and pitches in every way he can. Who wrestles with his children and prays with them every night. I can't wait to see what the next four---and forty---years have to offer.
After sneaking a peek through the locked doors of our 1920s-era reception site, The Commodore, John and I had a fabulous dinner at W.A. Frost in Saint Paul. It was an especially meaningful location because we hadn't been there since our wedding day, when we stopped by to sip champagne on their gorgeous patio between our ceremony and reception. Last night, the weather was a bit cool for an entire dinner on the patio, so we moved inside and reminisced about that day and the many that have followed. John proposed an amusing conversation of our marriage highlights and lowlights---by year. We laughed and inebriated ourselves, touching back to this topic throughout mixed drinks, champagne, and Spanish red.
The food and company were both exquisite. We started with a cheese plate, and did learn that unpasteurized goat cheese varies from our pasteurized love. (I believe we compared it to stinky sweat socks.) Next, we each had a salad and John's was a surprising, delicious blend of watermelon and (pasteurized) goat cheese with a balsamic garlic vinaigrette and pistachios. I will have to try to recreate that one. We shared the filet as an entree, and it was heaven-sent. I can still taste the light, mascarpone polenta in my mind this morning. For dessert, there was a trio to try---our favorites were a rhubarb strawberry cobbler and a crunchy, rich creme brulee. One of these days I'll take out a blowtorch and give that a go, too.
Though our house is 99% chaos right now, I am thankful each day to have John as a husband. It is not every man who takes his family so seriously, who loves his wife with tender devotion, who does the laundry and pitches in every way he can. Who wrestles with his children and prays with them every night. I can't wait to see what the next four---and forty---years have to offer.
04 September 2008
30 August 2008
"Mommmm....Lucy bites!!!"
Such is the cry of my 3 year old. Little does he remember that a year and 1/2 ago, he was biting like crazy. The kid was kicked out of the gym childcare, for Pete's sake!
Lucy has indeed entered the wonderful world of ferocious biting. She's marked up cousin Wally pretty good, and isn't above biting anyone who disregards her toy preference. This time, though, we're taking action:
Lucy has indeed entered the wonderful world of ferocious biting. She's marked up cousin Wally pretty good, and isn't above biting anyone who disregards her toy preference. This time, though, we're taking action:
Portabello Sandwich
Who said John's birthday wasn't brimming with excitement? The day included a visit with a blackhawk helicopter pilot, a picnic in the city, an Alfred Hitchcock thriller, and a trip to the local emergency room.
And a delicious portabello mushroom sandwich.
To enjoy, combine:
1/4 C balsamic vinegar
1/4 C extra virgin olive oil
1 t dried, crushed basil
1 t garlic
1 t sea salt
dash of freshly ground pepper
-----------------------------
other ingredients include:
3 portabello mushroom caps
1/4 C (several slices) red onion
4 T mayonnaise
1 t orange juice
fresh, sliced tomato
havarti cheese*
thickly sliced artisan bread or other crusty bread, toasted
Combine the first set of ingredients in a large pan (and a bit more olive oil, if necessary). Saute 3 sliced portabello mushroom caps and a few slices of red onion on low heat. The saute will take about 10 minutes, until the onions and mushrooms are tender and plump.
Meanwhile, combine about 4 T mayonnaise with 1 t orange juice. Set aside.
Now, here comes the tricky part.
Ideally, you should toast the bread so it's quite crusty. There is a lot of moisture in this sandwich. I used a toaster to mediocre results. Perhaps it would be best to carefully broil the bread with a havarti cheese slice on 2 pieces of the bread.
Then, assemble the sandwiches. Each should have
2 slices bread
1 well-melted slice of havarti
generous heap of portabello mushroom slices and onions
1-2 T citrus mayonnaise
several slices tomato
Eat hot. Yum!!
*Havarti cheese is one of my favorites, but I'd bet that goat cheese would be a fabulous addition to this sandwich. I think we'll try that next time.
And a delicious portabello mushroom sandwich.
To enjoy, combine:
1/4 C balsamic vinegar
1/4 C extra virgin olive oil
1 t dried, crushed basil
1 t garlic
1 t sea salt
dash of freshly ground pepper
-----------------------------
other ingredients include:
3 portabello mushroom caps
1/4 C (several slices) red onion
4 T mayonnaise
1 t orange juice
fresh, sliced tomato
havarti cheese*
thickly sliced artisan bread or other crusty bread, toasted
Combine the first set of ingredients in a large pan (and a bit more olive oil, if necessary). Saute 3 sliced portabello mushroom caps and a few slices of red onion on low heat. The saute will take about 10 minutes, until the onions and mushrooms are tender and plump.
Meanwhile, combine about 4 T mayonnaise with 1 t orange juice. Set aside.
Now, here comes the tricky part.
Ideally, you should toast the bread so it's quite crusty. There is a lot of moisture in this sandwich. I used a toaster to mediocre results. Perhaps it would be best to carefully broil the bread with a havarti cheese slice on 2 pieces of the bread.
Then, assemble the sandwiches. Each should have
2 slices bread
1 well-melted slice of havarti
generous heap of portabello mushroom slices and onions
1-2 T citrus mayonnaise
several slices tomato
Eat hot. Yum!!
*Havarti cheese is one of my favorites, but I'd bet that goat cheese would be a fabulous addition to this sandwich. I think we'll try that next time.
25 August 2008
Lucy Goose on her Throne
Oh, if only you had a sweetheart like my Lucy Lu. She is such a snuggler these days and is at my favorite age (don't tell the other kids) because she seems to learn new words a mile a minute. Sure, she throws her fair share of tantrums, but overall, she's a sweetie pie.
This weekend, we decided spontaneously to visit John's family in Wisconsin. The kids played hard all day on Saturday, running through the yard, digging up Grandpa's rock patio, and periodically running inside for Grandma's $250 cookies. Yum. Despite no naps, our two oldest were up screaming and moaning til nearly 11 at night. I thought they would never go to bed. It is such a challenge to travel with little kids...any change in routine can send them over the edge.
On the drive home yesterday, the kids and I both crashed. They fell asleep within seconds of the engine starting, and I fell apart because of lack of sleep/hormones/too much caffeine. Close to home, we stopped for gas and Lucy woke up.
"Baby!! Poopy! Ouch!" she told me. For a minute, I was confused. "Do YOU have to go poop?" I asked. "Yea," she replied.
I rushed the Goose into the gas station and sat her on the potty, where she pointed in amusement at a bunch of flies. Gross.
Although that attempt was unsuccessful, she pooped in her diaper at home later last night. Wanting her to further associate poop with the potty, John brought her to the bathroom after changing her and sat her again on the throne. This time, she grunted and went poop!!
I'm no fool this time around. I know Lucy won't be trained in a day, and maybe not even in a year. But a little glimpse into a one-kid-in-diapers world? I'll take what I can get.
22 August 2008
All the Livelong Day
Today is the first day that my kids haven't screamed for 8 out of 10 hours. I'm not really exaggerating...as I told my mother-in-law, at least one of three is whining or screaming at any given moment. In fact, I consider it a pleasant moment if only one kid is screaming. So, that's how it's going. I don't really answer the phone (too hard to hear anyone with all the screaming and whining) or post on my blog (too hard to think with the constant headache).
Look at these bugs, though. It's hard to hate 'em.
I had a particularly difficult night with Jimmy on Wednesday. His screaming wouldn't end, forcing me to end a social engagement with great embarrassment. Aren't you supposed to know how to silence them by the 3rd kid? Anyway, last night John suggested that I take a break and enjoy the hot tub at the gym. It would figure that as soon as I entered the locker room for a long hot shower, a toddler with keen instinct started throwing the Tantrum to End All Tantrums. Hey, I'm a pro-family girl, but in that moment, I just wished to transport them to the appropriately-labeled Family Locker Room.
Look at these bugs, though. It's hard to hate 'em.
I had a particularly difficult night with Jimmy on Wednesday. His screaming wouldn't end, forcing me to end a social engagement with great embarrassment. Aren't you supposed to know how to silence them by the 3rd kid? Anyway, last night John suggested that I take a break and enjoy the hot tub at the gym. It would figure that as soon as I entered the locker room for a long hot shower, a toddler with keen instinct started throwing the Tantrum to End All Tantrums. Hey, I'm a pro-family girl, but in that moment, I just wished to transport them to the appropriately-labeled Family Locker Room.
11 August 2008
Retroactive Word of the Day: Milliner
milliner: Noun. A person who makes or sells women's hats [originally Milaner a native of Milan, once famous for its fancy goods].
I can't lunch with you today, Kathryn. I'm visiting the milliner to design my third violet hat.
I can't lunch with you today, Kathryn. I'm visiting the milliner to design my third violet hat.
09 August 2008
Time to Sit Still for Just a Moment: One Month In
Dear Jimmy,
I'm sitting at our kitchen table, and you're tucked away in your car seat on the living room rug. You seem to prefer slumber in your car seat over any other place; so far, you've spent every night in that utilitarian little bed.
Our family is turned upside-down in love with you. The house is chaos with a newborn, a 1 and 1/2 year old, and a 3 year old, but no one really seems to mind. I've pretty much given up cleaning in exchange for feeding you and defending you from baby-loving siblings. Tommy and Lucy have their ears continually perked to hear the slightest noise coming from your lips. "Jimmy's awake!!" "Yimmy!!"
We watch for your eyes to open, we admire your long, slender fingers. We give you kisses and wait for you to join in the laughter of what has become, to be honest, our little family circus.
It's exhausting to be a mom to 3 kids so demanding of my time and energy---mental and physical. Most of the time, I feel like I could fall asleep on a moment's notice, Jimster. But then, there are days like today, when I wake up and realize the beauty that I'm blind to when I cave in to that exhaustion. In this chaos, I have to focus on the love that binds us.
You're starting to put just a little meat on your bones. I've been waiting for that to happen, and it makes my soul smile to see your round face with milk dribbling down to a slightly double chin. You have that sweet smell of baby, and I know I'm in love when even your dirtiest diaper smells wonderful. How strange is that? But it's the truth.
Today, Daddy fed you the 1st bottle.
Tomorrow, you'll probably be gabbing away like Lucy.
Or donning super-hero costumes like Tommy.
It goes so fast, my baby. I just want you to be my littlest for a while.
I love you, Jimmy.
Mama
I'm sitting at our kitchen table, and you're tucked away in your car seat on the living room rug. You seem to prefer slumber in your car seat over any other place; so far, you've spent every night in that utilitarian little bed.
Our family is turned upside-down in love with you. The house is chaos with a newborn, a 1 and 1/2 year old, and a 3 year old, but no one really seems to mind. I've pretty much given up cleaning in exchange for feeding you and defending you from baby-loving siblings. Tommy and Lucy have their ears continually perked to hear the slightest noise coming from your lips. "Jimmy's awake!!" "Yimmy!!"
We watch for your eyes to open, we admire your long, slender fingers. We give you kisses and wait for you to join in the laughter of what has become, to be honest, our little family circus.
It's exhausting to be a mom to 3 kids so demanding of my time and energy---mental and physical. Most of the time, I feel like I could fall asleep on a moment's notice, Jimster. But then, there are days like today, when I wake up and realize the beauty that I'm blind to when I cave in to that exhaustion. In this chaos, I have to focus on the love that binds us.
You're starting to put just a little meat on your bones. I've been waiting for that to happen, and it makes my soul smile to see your round face with milk dribbling down to a slightly double chin. You have that sweet smell of baby, and I know I'm in love when even your dirtiest diaper smells wonderful. How strange is that? But it's the truth.
Today, Daddy fed you the 1st bottle.
Tomorrow, you'll probably be gabbing away like Lucy.
Or donning super-hero costumes like Tommy.
It goes so fast, my baby. I just want you to be my littlest for a while.
I love you, Jimmy.
Mama
Word of the Day: Mensch
07 August 2008
Little Captain
Tommy has been bugging me for about a week to purchase him a new hook. Where do you buy a hook when it's not Halloween? I had to resort to creativity. Gladware + straw + tape + aluminum foil = Hook. For the advanced version, apply black paint.
Here is an excerpt from this morning's pirate outing.
Neighbor Zach [exiting his home as he sees us walk past]: I heard all the noise and had to see what was going on....niiiiice hook!
Tommy [waving his hook, obviously]: I'm a pirate! And I have a new hook! We've got to fight the dragons! They're breathing fire!
Zach: Whoaaa...you're going to fight the dragons all by yourself?
Tommy: Yes! I'm a pirate.
Zach: I would be scared to fight them all by myself.
Tommy [looks at Zach as if he's missing critical brain cells]: Well....you don't have a hook.
31 July 2008
One of Us
No baby's assimilation to our family is complete without the adoption of a standard nickname. With Tom, the weeks went by and he became first, Tommy Tupalo and then Tommy T. Toop, and finally, The Toop. With Lucy, she was, fairly naturally, Lucy Goose. It's hard to predict how nicknames will develop, and you certainly can't attempt to define one pre-birth. For Jimmy, time has yet to tell...but for now, he is my Jimster.
Tom and Luce are both proud of and affectionate towards their brother. At first, it seemed their love would be Jimmy's demise. During Jimmy's first days, I almost had a heart attack when Lucy tried to claw her way on top of both Jimmy and me while he nursed. Jimmy's getting older, though, and I'm getting slightly wiser. Now, whenever the kids want to see Jimmy, I encourage them to give him a good 'ol kiss. This peck of affection seems to be all they really need; they just want to be allowed to touch Jim and to show him he's in the club.
14 July 2008
24 June 2008
Can I Handle This?
Life is never quite exciting enough for Tommy. As we piled into the car this morning, planning to hit the gym and then visit the local fire station afterward, Tommy donned his baseball batting helmet and began his usual routine of foolin' around in the car.
Generally, Tommy takes to the back of the car, climbing over seats and grinning at me in evil amusement because he knows A) how mad I am going to get and B) that there is not much chance I can actually catch him, since my pregnant belly will not contort into the shape necessary to get over the car seats and into the back row of the minivan.
This morning, however, Tom took to his more-dangerous habit of playing with switches and buttons in the front of the car. You can probably guess where this is going. He took a good, long look at me and then locked the car. I was annoyed, but one door was open...so no problem. I manually unlocked another car door and proceeded to get Tom strapped into his car seat. Then I shut his door and, in slow motion, heard...the... automatic...locks...re-locking...the...front...door. Didn't know that was a bonus feature.
With both kids strapped and my keys locked up tight, I panicked. It was a hot morning, and while we were in the shade of the garage, I didn't know how fast things would heat up in there. Thankfully, Daddy excused himself from work for an hour to drive out and save the kids. As we waited for him to arrive, I tried unsuccessfully to pry open the front window and stick a homemade hook contraption onto the auto-lock button. Tommy cheered me on and kept urging me to, "Use Daddy's hammer!!...It's right over there in the toooooooool box!!"
Kids are a riot, but sometimes, my Grandpa is right: Don't be in such a hurry to get them on the outside (of your body). They cause less trouble in your stomach.
Generally, Tommy takes to the back of the car, climbing over seats and grinning at me in evil amusement because he knows A) how mad I am going to get and B) that there is not much chance I can actually catch him, since my pregnant belly will not contort into the shape necessary to get over the car seats and into the back row of the minivan.
This morning, however, Tom took to his more-dangerous habit of playing with switches and buttons in the front of the car. You can probably guess where this is going. He took a good, long look at me and then locked the car. I was annoyed, but one door was open...so no problem. I manually unlocked another car door and proceeded to get Tom strapped into his car seat. Then I shut his door and, in slow motion, heard...the... automatic...locks...re-locking...the...front...door. Didn't know that was a bonus feature.
With both kids strapped and my keys locked up tight, I panicked. It was a hot morning, and while we were in the shade of the garage, I didn't know how fast things would heat up in there. Thankfully, Daddy excused himself from work for an hour to drive out and save the kids. As we waited for him to arrive, I tried unsuccessfully to pry open the front window and stick a homemade hook contraption onto the auto-lock button. Tommy cheered me on and kept urging me to, "Use Daddy's hammer!!...It's right over there in the toooooooool box!!"
Kids are a riot, but sometimes, my Grandpa is right: Don't be in such a hurry to get them on the outside (of your body). They cause less trouble in your stomach.
23 June 2008
Hormonal Thriller
Well, the verdict is in: #3 is scheduled to be born 2 weeks, 4 days early on Tuesday, July 8. July 8 seems like a fine enough birthday, but it's definitely no 4th of July.
John and I both went to the doctor this morning; the ultrasound tech pronounced the baby to be of normal size for this point in the pregnancy. Nothing is really normal about baby size in our family, so we'll see whether her predictions ring true two weeks from tomorrow.
After the doc, John picked out some fancy new eyeglasses and then we headed for lunch at a longtime favorite, Punch Pizza. By this point, I was feeling nauseated from hunger and thirst. (Normally, I have about 3 glasses of water and ice chips by 11am, and I forgot to bring even one bottle of water with me to the doc.) As we ordered our pizza, I requested a BIG Coke. The biggest available. I didn't realize the cups were refillable.
As John and I laughed over my urgent and desperate plea for cola, I suddenly found my laughter turning into tears...uncontrollable ones. John quickly tried to make amends, "I didn't meant anything by it, dear!" I knew he didn't. It was just a strange and sudden hormonal shift.
I have a feeling many more are on the way.
John and I both went to the doctor this morning; the ultrasound tech pronounced the baby to be of normal size for this point in the pregnancy. Nothing is really normal about baby size in our family, so we'll see whether her predictions ring true two weeks from tomorrow.
After the doc, John picked out some fancy new eyeglasses and then we headed for lunch at a longtime favorite, Punch Pizza. By this point, I was feeling nauseated from hunger and thirst. (Normally, I have about 3 glasses of water and ice chips by 11am, and I forgot to bring even one bottle of water with me to the doc.) As we ordered our pizza, I requested a BIG Coke. The biggest available. I didn't realize the cups were refillable.
As John and I laughed over my urgent and desperate plea for cola, I suddenly found my laughter turning into tears...uncontrollable ones. John quickly tried to make amends, "I didn't meant anything by it, dear!" I knew he didn't. It was just a strange and sudden hormonal shift.
I have a feeling many more are on the way.
20 June 2008
Salute to the End
It's getting to be the bitter end: the point at which I must waddle instead of walk. This morning, the kids sat in the double stroller as I waddled around the marsh near our home. Geez, pushing that thing is burdensome. It is actually easier to run than waddle behind that stroller.
At most, I've got 2 weekends left before this baby makes a grand entrance into the world. The baby is wide awake right now, pushing and prodding around in my belly, which sticks out over the edge of my laptop keyboard as I type.
I can't say that pregnancy is enjoyable yet---no, no; far from it. However, it does seem to have gone by a little more quickly and a little more smoothly this time. Perhaps that's due to the other rugrats occupying my time. Or maybe I've just become somewhat numb to what seems a constant stage of my life.
Some of the things I will appreciate post-partum include:
1.)Putting on underwear more easily. I'm not talking about size here; I'm talking about balance. It is very difficult to balance on one foot and angle your other foot into a tiny hole when you can't see that hole because your belly is in the way.
2.)Chasing my kids around and giving them kiss attacks. Unfortunately, pregnancy prevents some of the most fun tickling and wrestling that parents love to do.
3.) Bike riding. It seems like every darn summer, I keep saying how much I miss bike riding. Then I get knocked up again and I'm afraid to fall off the bike.
4.) Booze. Well, most of you know I'll indulge in an occasional drink while pregnant. Dr. He-Man says it's fine, people! But it will be nice to order a glass of wine at a restaurant again. Public scrutiny is quite intense at my size.
At most, I've got 2 weekends left before this baby makes a grand entrance into the world. The baby is wide awake right now, pushing and prodding around in my belly, which sticks out over the edge of my laptop keyboard as I type.
I can't say that pregnancy is enjoyable yet---no, no; far from it. However, it does seem to have gone by a little more quickly and a little more smoothly this time. Perhaps that's due to the other rugrats occupying my time. Or maybe I've just become somewhat numb to what seems a constant stage of my life.
Some of the things I will appreciate post-partum include:
1.)Putting on underwear more easily. I'm not talking about size here; I'm talking about balance. It is very difficult to balance on one foot and angle your other foot into a tiny hole when you can't see that hole because your belly is in the way.
2.)Chasing my kids around and giving them kiss attacks. Unfortunately, pregnancy prevents some of the most fun tickling and wrestling that parents love to do.
3.) Bike riding. It seems like every darn summer, I keep saying how much I miss bike riding. Then I get knocked up again and I'm afraid to fall off the bike.
4.) Booze. Well, most of you know I'll indulge in an occasional drink while pregnant. Dr. He-Man says it's fine, people! But it will be nice to order a glass of wine at a restaurant again. Public scrutiny is quite intense at my size.
17 June 2008
Up on the Scale
So, I'm feeling pretty proud of myself. This is my 1st pregnancy that I will actually fall within the doctor-recommended weight gain specifications, and let me tell you, it has been no easy task. I am still running...a slow 2 miles this morning, and I am feeling so much better than I did at the end of either other pregnancy. I've gained 27 lbs., and imagine I will be up to 30 by the time the next 3 weeks are through.
I recently saw a poster at the gym that said maintaining your health (or weight?...not sure) is about 20% physical exertion and 80% nutrition. Yikes. Unfortunately, I had to tip the scales with extra physical effort, because I still ate plenty of ice cream this time around.
I hate to do it, but for those who are reading this blog and are in or anticipating their 1st pregnancy, please heed my warning of not listening to the many who will tell you it's OK to eat for 2. It's really not. Trust me; I've done it. The weight is hard to lose, and you're better off gaining less to start with. I don't know how I would have kept up with Tom and Lucy this month if I'd been where I was at the end of my last pregnancy.
Anyway, the point of this entry is to celebrate! How often is it that I can step on the scale proud of myself at 8.5 months pregnant? Three cheers for Anne! Thank goodness the end is in sight.
I recently saw a poster at the gym that said maintaining your health (or weight?...not sure) is about 20% physical exertion and 80% nutrition. Yikes. Unfortunately, I had to tip the scales with extra physical effort, because I still ate plenty of ice cream this time around.
I hate to do it, but for those who are reading this blog and are in or anticipating their 1st pregnancy, please heed my warning of not listening to the many who will tell you it's OK to eat for 2. It's really not. Trust me; I've done it. The weight is hard to lose, and you're better off gaining less to start with. I don't know how I would have kept up with Tom and Lucy this month if I'd been where I was at the end of my last pregnancy.
Anyway, the point of this entry is to celebrate! How often is it that I can step on the scale proud of myself at 8.5 months pregnant? Three cheers for Anne! Thank goodness the end is in sight.
12 June 2008
Sparkless
I recently saw a movie preview for Nights in Rodanthe, and for some reason beyond me, I was moved to finally pick up a Nicholas Sparks novel.
Bad choice.
I'd resisted him vehemently (in writing and on film) even after everyone I knew recommended The Notebook. I can't speak for that particular piece of international phenom, but Nights in Rodanthe was utter sap.What a waste of precious free time.
Bad choice.
I'd resisted him vehemently (in writing and on film) even after everyone I knew recommended The Notebook. I can't speak for that particular piece of international phenom, but Nights in Rodanthe was utter sap.What a waste of precious free time.
Curried Chicken Salad
This is something John and I have enjoyed since we lived in the city. Now I can make it in the suburbs!
Envy & Animosity Humbled
I was getting ready at the gym this morning when a tiny woman scooted in next to me. Irked to see her cute little body, I mentally sighed and wondered when my pregnancy would be over. I became more annoyed with her when she asked to share the (small) mirror to get ready beside me. Do I really have to primp next to Ms. Perfect?
Of course, she inevitably had to ask whether I was having a boy or a girl, and when the baby was coming. I responded in my best do-I-have-to-make-small-talk-with-everyone-just-because-I'm- pregnant voice.
She seemed not to perceive my emote, and instead sighed herself.
"You're so lucky," she said. "I just finished a round of in vitro fertilization. Sorry if it seems like I've been staring at you."
"I hope it works," I managed, surprised that she would share something so personal with me.
"It didn't," she said. "It was so expensive, and we don't have the money to do it again..."
Silently, I nodded as she went on for few moments, telling me what was in the deepest part of her heart.
Of course, she inevitably had to ask whether I was having a boy or a girl, and when the baby was coming. I responded in my best do-I-have-to-make-small-talk-with-everyone-just-because-I'm- pregnant voice.
She seemed not to perceive my emote, and instead sighed herself.
"You're so lucky," she said. "I just finished a round of in vitro fertilization. Sorry if it seems like I've been staring at you."
"I hope it works," I managed, surprised that she would share something so personal with me.
"It didn't," she said. "It was so expensive, and we don't have the money to do it again..."
Silently, I nodded as she went on for few moments, telling me what was in the deepest part of her heart.
Nothin' Sweeter
There's nothin' sweeter than a toddler gal in a tank top.You can see her tender little shoulders and arms, with just a tad of sunshine and a squeeze-worth of baby fat left. There's nothin' cuter...except maybe when you buy her a new pair of shoes, and her little girl legs seem so much different.And she walks with a new bounce.And she giggles and smiles and sits down often to examine her new acquisition.Ladies and gentlemen, she's a shopper!
06 June 2008
This Many [Holding up 3 Fingers]
Dear Tommy,It seems your toddlerhood is slipping (or "swipping") away from us.When I look at the calendar for this month, I can hardly believe your 3rd birthday is just days away.We did have to dash your hopes of having one of those real, working cars, but your other request for birthday strawberries will definitely be fulfilled.
As before the birth of your sister, I find myself strangely sentimental this month, wanting to snuggle you and hold you and just savor the relationship we have right now, before it changes.I don't fear the change, but I do know that things will be somehow different.And aren't they perfect now, with two giggling bugs chasing around our house?You are eager to meet the baby pushing you from inside my tummy, though...you seem unworried.
You are turning into such a smart and considerate boy, Tommy.You bombard me constantly with questions, asking just this morning where bikes were made and and what "suddenly" means.You never seem to forget our answers; instead, you repeat them aloud for several days or months as if committing them to memory is the most important task at hand.(I think this is a compulsion you get from Daddy.) "Frightened means scared!" "Exert means to try harder!" We've been working our way through the alphabet lately, mostly so I could focus on something other than pregnancy.Things are finally wrapping up, and this week, you're learning about the letter U.A picture of Tommy wearing "Underwear" hangs on my left...and rightfully so, as potty-training has consumed so much of our and your energy over these past months.It really did go more smoothly than I expected, but every so often, you hold onto your right to pee or poo where YOU so choose.I can only believe such determination will serve you well in other areas of your life.
One of your favorite things to do, now that the weather is nice, is take off on the Radio Flyer bike that Grandma Linda and Grandpa Eric gave you.We need to get a basket on that thing, because you're awfully fond of collecting rocks along your way, but you're perplexed when they fall off the back of the bike.You are fast as the wind, and can go at least a mile.Yesterday, you rang your little bell and waved at a gaggle of girls as you passed.
You are a wonderful brother most of the time.When Lucy wakes up in the morning, you rush to give her a kiss.You tell me when she wants to eat yogurt or get a drink. You find her special bunny when she's sad.With gentle reminding,you are eager to share with Lucy.You become more happy when she is happy.I hope this lesson is one that sticks with you in life...to complete another's joy brings our own.
I will never forget the feeling of responsibility and joy and relief we experienced the day we drove you home from United Hospital in our little Volvo three brief years ago.I cried in that moment as I realized you were everything life could offer. And you really are.
To be a mother is to know a completeness that often overwhelms, but equally inspires.
I love you, Tommy.Happy Birthday.
Mama
22 May 2008
Protect and Defend
John and I watched a documentary on FDR a few nights back, and it struck me, as it often has in motherhood, how the idea of war changes when you are a parent.
On a daily basis, I'm forced to think about these hundreds of little things to protect my kids from---bee stings on the front porch, choking on peanuts, crossing the street without looking. Obviously, these are minutiae compared to what one confronts in wartime.
What would it be like to be the parents ripped from one another and their children as they segregated into genders in the Holocaust concentration camps? What would it be like to pray genuinely and pleadingly for the life of your child to be safe?
Really, these thoughts are almost too grounding for a mom to contemplate. So, I'm content to worry about what will happen if Tommy drinks too much apple juice, or if Lucy doesn't get enough exposure to baby word books.
And then, every so often, I realize just how blessed we really are.
On a daily basis, I'm forced to think about these hundreds of little things to protect my kids from---bee stings on the front porch, choking on peanuts, crossing the street without looking. Obviously, these are minutiae compared to what one confronts in wartime.
What would it be like to be the parents ripped from one another and their children as they segregated into genders in the Holocaust concentration camps? What would it be like to pray genuinely and pleadingly for the life of your child to be safe?
Really, these thoughts are almost too grounding for a mom to contemplate. So, I'm content to worry about what will happen if Tommy drinks too much apple juice, or if Lucy doesn't get enough exposure to baby word books.
And then, every so often, I realize just how blessed we really are.
Shrimp & Curry on Top
Frozen, cooked shrimp is a great on-hand freezer item. Shrimp goes well with pasta or rice, and is complemented by many vegetables, although it can easily stand alone.
Last night, I attempted to replicate a shrimp dish I'd made some time ago at Let's Dish (by the way, great value for your money) but I had to do it mostly from memory, since my camera-phone pictures of the recipes didn't turn out as well as I'd hoped.
Shrimp & Curry on Top
ingredients
3-4 T butter
1 T curry powder
3 T onion, chopped finely (I used red)
1 t minced garlic
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
3/4 C sliced baby bella mushrooms
10 baby carrots, sliced
20 frozen, cooked shrimp
white or (better) jasmine rice, prepared per package instructions
directions
1. On medium-low heat, melt butter and saute in garlic, curry powder, onion and carrots. Take care not to burn garlic. Keep on low heat about 5 minutes.
2. Add chickpeas and shrimp to pan. Cover, stirring occasionally under shrimp is heated through--about 10 minutes on medium (it will shrink as it heats).
3. Add mushrooms and saute about 2-3 more minutes.
4. Serve in bowls atop the rice.
There are so many great things about this recipe---for one, I love the hearty addition of chickpeas, which I never use in the kitchen otherwise. What else do you make with chickpeas? Another great thing about this recipe is that almost any vegetable could be substituted---broccoli, green peas, snow peas, etc.
Last night, I attempted to replicate a shrimp dish I'd made some time ago at Let's Dish (by the way, great value for your money) but I had to do it mostly from memory, since my camera-phone pictures of the recipes didn't turn out as well as I'd hoped.
Shrimp & Curry on Top
ingredients
3-4 T butter
1 T curry powder
3 T onion, chopped finely (I used red)
1 t minced garlic
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
3/4 C sliced baby bella mushrooms
10 baby carrots, sliced
20 frozen, cooked shrimp
white or (better) jasmine rice, prepared per package instructions
directions
1. On medium-low heat, melt butter and saute in garlic, curry powder, onion and carrots. Take care not to burn garlic. Keep on low heat about 5 minutes.
2. Add chickpeas and shrimp to pan. Cover, stirring occasionally under shrimp is heated through--about 10 minutes on medium (it will shrink as it heats).
3. Add mushrooms and saute about 2-3 more minutes.
4. Serve in bowls atop the rice.
There are so many great things about this recipe---for one, I love the hearty addition of chickpeas, which I never use in the kitchen otherwise. What else do you make with chickpeas? Another great thing about this recipe is that almost any vegetable could be substituted---broccoli, green peas, snow peas, etc.
20 May 2008
Unjust
There are so many moments of motherhood for which I'm not proud. This morning was a biggie. It started out when Tommy refused to eat his cereal, changing his mind after several bites and declaring that he wanted toast. On the principle that we don't waste food, I let him be excused from the table instead of eat his cereal. Then I reminded him that he'd get no snacks because he had wasted so much.
A two year old can't go long on an empty stomach, though: several hours later, we were trying to get motivated and head to the gym, when Tommy threw a high tantrum about his inability to pull his pants down to go potty. I know he can pull his pants down; this has just become an issue for Tom to press, an area of control that I usually allow him because I just want him to get the job done. Over the last few weeks, though, I've pressed him to become more self-reliant since I'm getting astronomical and it's hard to do all those little, bending jobs.
Anyway, if you're a Mom, you can probably envision the screaming tantrum that ensued. Tommy hungry, me frustrated. I'm not sure who was louder or more ridiculous. I yelled at the top of my lungs, he wriggled, laying on the bathroom floor and refusing to pull down the sweatpants. Finally, he peed his pants and I just lost it.
Soon into my tirade, I recognized that I was out of control and that my behavior was doing much more damage than good. I dropped to my knees and held Tommy, shaking and crying. I said I was sorry for yelling, and he whimpered, "I don't like yelling, Mom." I feel awful to admit how horrible I could treat Tommy; how little patience and understanding I gave him this morning.
But Tommy forgave me and went back, in what seemed like the blink of an eye, to loving me as if I'd done nothing wrong. So unconditional. So childlike. So inspiring.
Why can't I forgive things so quickly and completely? Why can't I be patient more of the time? Sometimes life seems to rise up and present these completely simple ideas---fairness towards others, for instance---that are so much harder to act out than I'd like to admit.
A two year old can't go long on an empty stomach, though: several hours later, we were trying to get motivated and head to the gym, when Tommy threw a high tantrum about his inability to pull his pants down to go potty. I know he can pull his pants down; this has just become an issue for Tom to press, an area of control that I usually allow him because I just want him to get the job done. Over the last few weeks, though, I've pressed him to become more self-reliant since I'm getting astronomical and it's hard to do all those little, bending jobs.
Anyway, if you're a Mom, you can probably envision the screaming tantrum that ensued. Tommy hungry, me frustrated. I'm not sure who was louder or more ridiculous. I yelled at the top of my lungs, he wriggled, laying on the bathroom floor and refusing to pull down the sweatpants. Finally, he peed his pants and I just lost it.
Soon into my tirade, I recognized that I was out of control and that my behavior was doing much more damage than good. I dropped to my knees and held Tommy, shaking and crying. I said I was sorry for yelling, and he whimpered, "I don't like yelling, Mom." I feel awful to admit how horrible I could treat Tommy; how little patience and understanding I gave him this morning.
But Tommy forgave me and went back, in what seemed like the blink of an eye, to loving me as if I'd done nothing wrong. So unconditional. So childlike. So inspiring.
Why can't I forgive things so quickly and completely? Why can't I be patient more of the time? Sometimes life seems to rise up and present these completely simple ideas---fairness towards others, for instance---that are so much harder to act out than I'd like to admit.
19 May 2008
Maternity Shopping Spree?
I stopped in at Ann Taylor Loft recently to check out the accessories. With the pregnancy coming to a close, I'm not in the market for any more maternity wear, and am instead left to dream of regular clothes (maybe I'll get to wear them for a few months this time?) and accessories. Imagine my surprise when I learned that they'd been carrying cute maternity clothes all this time! I guess I saved myself a bunch of money with that knowledge in secret, but if you're a working woman spending cash on a growing belly, I'd check them out.
Gestation: Almost Complete
I checked in with Dr. He-Man today, and we are indeed in synch: gestation will be complete, in my case, at 37 weeks. He said I'm measuring a little big. That puts #3's birth at approximately the 4th of July (which I've been planning on since day 1). I am also supposed to have an ultrasound at 35 weeks.
Thank goodness the end is in sight.
Thank goodness the end is in sight.
17 May 2008
Delicious and Quick Vegetables
Everything tastes better with goat cheese. Today, I sauteed green beans and portabello mushrooms in butter and sprinkled it lightly with salt. Then I added a healthy amount of goat cheese. A simple, hot salad that John and I both loved!
13 May 2008
Eat Your Vegetables
Tommy was hungry for a snack, so I gave him a bowl of dry HoneyCombs while he watched Sesame Street. Twenty minutes later, he was back: "I'm still hung-ary, Mom! Can I have some more HoneyCombs, please?"
"No, Tom, we're going to eat lunch in a little bit, so that's enough snacks."
And then, knowing I'll say yes: "Then, can I have a carrot, Mom? Please?"
And then, knowing I think it's cute that he has finally learned to hold up a correct number of fingers on his hand: "Can I have [pause to count out the fingers] two carrots?"
"No, Tom, we're going to eat lunch in a little bit, so that's enough snacks."
And then, knowing I'll say yes: "Then, can I have a carrot, Mom? Please?"
And then, knowing I think it's cute that he has finally learned to hold up a correct number of fingers on his hand: "Can I have [pause to count out the fingers] two carrots?"
Happy Mother's Day to Me!
I was hoping you'd be able to see more of #3 in this picture, but s/he's a little crowded by the siblings.
09 May 2008
Obvious
Foolish Husband to his Pregnant Wife: Why'd you want me to pick up that ice cream at the store?
Wife: [Long pause.] So I could eat it.
Wife: [Long pause.] So I could eat it.
08 May 2008
15 Short Months
Oh Lucy,I stole this picture that Katy took. It was perfect timing, really: I'd just been thinking today how beautiful you were growing before my eyes. The time has flown and soon, you won't even be my littlest baby. But you'll always be my Lucy.
There is a spark in you, Miss Lucy, that everyone seems to see.You make friends wherever we go. People can't help but notice your giggling demeanor and the way you race, wobbling, from place to place. Just the other day, a quite random boy at the gym daycare proclaimed you were his best friend. I'd never seen him before! He was at least 5! Many of the older kids there have taken you on as their own. They gush when you walk in the door, and wave goodbye, reaching out to touch you as we leave. What is it about you, Lucy? What makes everyone notice?
It's no surprise to a mother that her baby is shining and full of light. Luz. Several months ago, you began singing that rock-a-bye song in your rocking chair, melting my heart.There seems to be music gushing from you. In the car, you hum along to the radio in that soft voice.You actually murmur---in rhythm---to the ABCs and the Wheels on the Bus. You are learning and using so many words---ball, moo, bah, bottle, drink, milk, cookie, jump, up, down,Uh Oh. You lay in your bed when you're tired, and you never fuss. You just seem to love sleep when it's time for sleeping, and to love life when it's time for waking.
We are so lucky to be your family, Lucy. You are a fighter, the kind of girl who chases down what she wants and sometimes trips violently...but then you get up, brush off the tears and blood, and keep going. How can a girl not yet 15 months do that? Do you need me? Or do I need you more?
The line is so blurred.I will always be loving you, my baby.
Mama
06 May 2008
Updates from the Single Mom
I'm a little behind on my May posting.I had all kinds of great plans for this month, including secret May Day baskets, sunshine, and long walks with the kids.Unfortunately, for the first part of this month, my dismal third-stage-of-pregnancy depression emerged and none of these plans materialized.My body is starting to feel the toll of this baby weight, I'm getting scared that I might not be able to work out through the whole pregnancy, and John also had to go to California for work.I felt bad for John as he left town.I was having one of my emotional breakdowns, in which I question whether I'll be able to handle the three rugrats. He didn't want to leave me in my tearful state.
Things have been going pretty well in his absence, though. This morning, the kids and I journeyed to the nature center and saw my favorite spring flowers, the hyacinth, peeping up.Tom cooperatively refrained from jumping in the ponds, and then everyone took a good, long afternoon nap.
Not too much can take away from sweet-smelling hyacinth and a well-slept mom, but I do have a slight chafing issue. I'll spare you the details.
Happy spring!
30 April 2008
Just An Ordinary, Momentous Day
As I sit down tonight after a fourteen-plus hour day of full-time mom duty, it strikes me that often the moments of most poignancy in this role are surrounded by moments of utter chaos. Allow me to elaborate.
Today was a big day for Tommy, and for Lucy, too. Just since my last post, Lucy said "Grandpa!" and "baseball!" (both of which I had to discern a bit, but were indeed verified by a secondary adult party.) Tommy entered what I felt to be a new stage when he went over to play at his friends' home this afternoon without me.
I'm not sure why it felt so monumental to send Tommy trotting off to another person's home. I leave him at the gym daycare practically every day, although I guess that's not quite as personal of a setting (and I also am right upstairs). It struck me as a very grown-up toddler thing to do; to eat lunch and play for the afternoon.
When I picked Tommy up from his adventure, he was bursting with stories of all the things he'd done and all the fun he'd had. He wanted to stay, he told me. When I asked him if he'd like to have his friends over to play at our house sometime, he replied, "That'd be cool, Mom."
As Tommy napped off the fun, Lucy and I spent a bit more alone time together. She taught me what the cow says and what the sheep says. She giggled as she fed her baby doll the bottle and gave her a kiss. She backed her little bottom onto my lap and read her favorite chick book again and again. She snuggle with bunny baby, and danced around her sunny yellow room to the I'm a Little Teapot song.
Perhaps I pushed the kids both too much when we left the house tonight to go to my nephew's baseball game. They were tired and ready to wind down, but I thought a 7 o'clock game would be manageable. Indeed not. Tommy chased his cousin Claudia and her girlfriend all over the place, screaming at them, hitting them, throwing sand all over the place, scrambling over other parents who sent me my favorite look...that Oh my God, you're drowning in kids and you're doing this again??
My heart ached for Tommy despite his unruliness, actually: I knew he really just wanted to play with the girls, but sometimes when older kids get together, they push a little cousin aside and tell him he can't play, too. I guess as a youngest child, I understand that innate desire to want to be included. Nonetheless, Tommy's going to have to learn that violence isn't the answer.
Anyway, it was a traumatic end to a big day. There were tears because the baseball game wasn't over yet. There were tears because naughtiness means straight to bed. There were tears because we'll have to talk this all through with Dad, and I know Tommy doesn't want to disappoint anyone.
And then I realized, in the thick of all this discipline, that this is the first day I remember Tommy not having a single accident. He actually took off the clothes tonight that he put on at the beginning of the day. Maybe it's happened before when John was in charge, or when we were visiting at a grandparents' house, but I don't think so. It seems like we've had at least a dribble of pee up to this point.
And so, we're here, dribble-less for a day. I am so proud of Tom for bravely making his own way in the world when sometimes other kids are just scared and hang back. I am so proud of him for telling me when he has to pee! Sometimes my heart is just bursting.
And sometimes my heart is just burning, in the same moment. Could this kid go to bed? My weary bones can't take another moment today.
Today was a big day for Tommy, and for Lucy, too. Just since my last post, Lucy said "Grandpa!" and "baseball!" (both of which I had to discern a bit, but were indeed verified by a secondary adult party.) Tommy entered what I felt to be a new stage when he went over to play at his friends' home this afternoon without me.
I'm not sure why it felt so monumental to send Tommy trotting off to another person's home. I leave him at the gym daycare practically every day, although I guess that's not quite as personal of a setting (and I also am right upstairs). It struck me as a very grown-up toddler thing to do; to eat lunch and play for the afternoon.
When I picked Tommy up from his adventure, he was bursting with stories of all the things he'd done and all the fun he'd had. He wanted to stay, he told me. When I asked him if he'd like to have his friends over to play at our house sometime, he replied, "That'd be cool, Mom."
As Tommy napped off the fun, Lucy and I spent a bit more alone time together. She taught me what the cow says and what the sheep says. She giggled as she fed her baby doll the bottle and gave her a kiss. She backed her little bottom onto my lap and read her favorite chick book again and again. She snuggle with bunny baby, and danced around her sunny yellow room to the I'm a Little Teapot song.
Perhaps I pushed the kids both too much when we left the house tonight to go to my nephew's baseball game. They were tired and ready to wind down, but I thought a 7 o'clock game would be manageable. Indeed not. Tommy chased his cousin Claudia and her girlfriend all over the place, screaming at them, hitting them, throwing sand all over the place, scrambling over other parents who sent me my favorite look...that Oh my God, you're drowning in kids and you're doing this again??
My heart ached for Tommy despite his unruliness, actually: I knew he really just wanted to play with the girls, but sometimes when older kids get together, they push a little cousin aside and tell him he can't play, too. I guess as a youngest child, I understand that innate desire to want to be included. Nonetheless, Tommy's going to have to learn that violence isn't the answer.
Anyway, it was a traumatic end to a big day. There were tears because the baseball game wasn't over yet. There were tears because naughtiness means straight to bed. There were tears because we'll have to talk this all through with Dad, and I know Tommy doesn't want to disappoint anyone.
And then I realized, in the thick of all this discipline, that this is the first day I remember Tommy not having a single accident. He actually took off the clothes tonight that he put on at the beginning of the day. Maybe it's happened before when John was in charge, or when we were visiting at a grandparents' house, but I don't think so. It seems like we've had at least a dribble of pee up to this point.
And so, we're here, dribble-less for a day. I am so proud of Tom for bravely making his own way in the world when sometimes other kids are just scared and hang back. I am so proud of him for telling me when he has to pee! Sometimes my heart is just bursting.
And sometimes my heart is just burning, in the same moment. Could this kid go to bed? My weary bones can't take another moment today.
The Goose is Loose!
Maybe our middle child hasn't said as much as Tommy did (at her age) because we aren't paying enough attention. Today, Lucy busted out with two new words in appropriate context. First, she looked over at the counter while eating her breakfast, and stated her clear preference:
"Cookie."
Then, at the gym, she pointed to a baby and called her one.
"Cookie."
Then, at the gym, she pointed to a baby and called her one.
How Ya Feelin?
Of late, Tom has been excited to create his own words. If there is an adjective to describe hunger, heck, there must be one to describe a yearning for television.
"But Mommmmmmm, I'm feeling TV-y!!"
And later, more better:
"It's not nap time, Mom. I'm still booky."
"But Mommmmmmm, I'm feeling TV-y!!"
And later, more better:
"It's not nap time, Mom. I'm still booky."
29 April 2008
Moo
I love dairy...in a dangerous way. I am the kind of girl who accepts that, if we have a container of ice cream in our freezer, I will eat it bit by bit every three hours until it is gone. Usually it only takes a day.
One of my great finds in life has been this low-calorie yogurt. Yogurt actually does curb my desire for ice cream, especially because I mix the Dannon Light & Fit with frozen raspberries. A serious snack of this (may 1.5 cups?) has about 75 calories.
28 April 2008
Dates!
I have taken it upon myself to carve out some date time for John and I over the next month. It seems like forever since we've seen a movie in the theater (I can't even remember one).
Last weekend, we visited John's family in the Wisconsin heartland and we got to kick off our date string with a fabulous dinner at a local co-op. We expected the restaurant to be casual, but it was quite mod and chic. I want to try to re-create the pasta I had---some fancy linguine-type pasta with a Havarti cream sauce, pistachios, basil, and chicken. Yum, yum, yum.
It would also be nice to get out of our comfort zone and do something exciting on one of our upcoming dates. My friend is a local improv actress; I'll have to see if she has any shows coming up.
Last weekend, we visited John's family in the Wisconsin heartland and we got to kick off our date string with a fabulous dinner at a local co-op. We expected the restaurant to be casual, but it was quite mod and chic. I want to try to re-create the pasta I had---some fancy linguine-type pasta with a Havarti cream sauce, pistachios, basil, and chicken. Yum, yum, yum.
It would also be nice to get out of our comfort zone and do something exciting on one of our upcoming dates. My friend is a local improv actress; I'll have to see if she has any shows coming up.
Things I'm Thankful For: Modern Appliances
I am starting to get humongous (that wonderful stage when my belly begins to TAKE OVER my body). It's awesome. My favorite thing is walking around in public and having every living human being ask me if I'm due very shortly.
No, actually. If you can believe it, I'm going to get bigger and bigger and bigger for nine weeks...and it would be longer, except for Dr. He-Man!
Anyway, back to the positive nature of this post. Today I am really thankful for dishwashers, because my back is starting to hurt something fierce and I remember how painful it was to wash dishes by hand at this stage in the game.
No, actually. If you can believe it, I'm going to get bigger and bigger and bigger for nine weeks...and it would be longer, except for Dr. He-Man!
Anyway, back to the positive nature of this post. Today I am really thankful for dishwashers, because my back is starting to hurt something fierce and I remember how painful it was to wash dishes by hand at this stage in the game.
24 April 2008
In No Time at All
What a beautiful day yesterday! John and I decided to take the kids to our local nature center after dinner. I kid you not---just as I was thinking how Tommy had begun to mature and understand limits, he whisked out of our sight for a mere second.
The next thing we knew, Tommy was crying out in devastation. Apparently, when you jump into the nature center pond for a swim, you end up getting All Wet.
John thought Tommy slipped in there with his new Crocs, but I knew better. "What happened, Tommy?"
"I went swimming."
"Tommy, we can't go swimming here!"
"But I wanted to go swimming, Mom! And in no time, I was in there. All wet."
Well, if the potty training has taught us anything, it's to bring a change of clothes.
The next thing we knew, Tommy was crying out in devastation. Apparently, when you jump into the nature center pond for a swim, you end up getting All Wet.
John thought Tommy slipped in there with his new Crocs, but I knew better. "What happened, Tommy?"
"I went swimming."
"Tommy, we can't go swimming here!"
"But I wanted to go swimming, Mom! And in no time, I was in there. All wet."
Well, if the potty training has taught us anything, it's to bring a change of clothes.
23 April 2008
Unwelcome Guests
Disgusting. After all the potty training, you'd think I could use a break from disgusting things in my house. But we've moved directly from one issue to the next, although this one is not kid-related.
Ants.
They are everywhere!
One of the benefits of buying a brand-new home is that this place is relatively bug-free, yet somehow this spring, we are suddenly under invasion. One thing I've learned about ants is that they'll carry little crumbs into a corner so they can all feast together in a big pile. Disgusting.
How'd ya like a Lysol shower, little bugs?
I told John that, as the man of the house, it was his job to solve this problem.
Ants.
They are everywhere!
One of the benefits of buying a brand-new home is that this place is relatively bug-free, yet somehow this spring, we are suddenly under invasion. One thing I've learned about ants is that they'll carry little crumbs into a corner so they can all feast together in a big pile. Disgusting.
How'd ya like a Lysol shower, little bugs?
I told John that, as the man of the house, it was his job to solve this problem.
21 April 2008
17 April 2008
Junopoly
John and I finally saw the much-discussed Juno last night. Watching movies about my fellow preggos makes me more accepting of my state. Overall, I found Juno a light, refreshing take on the subject of adoption. It's unusual (and wonderful) to see a movie showcase how much adoption can do for the many people involved---the baby, the biological parents, and the adoptive parents. I definitely found a plot twist with the adoptive father to be weird; John and I were agreed that this twist could have been left out. I went to bed after the movie thinking long and hard about what it would be like to go through pregnancy as a high school student. While the movie hints that Juno's friends are ignorant of her emotions (the scene in which her best friend finds it "boring" that Juno is watching the adoptive mother play with a little girl at the mall), the film does seem to undervalue how difficult a challenge Juno embraces. Not only would the pregnancy itself be unimaginably trying (physically, emotionally, and socially), any mother would struggle with the choice of whether she really could give her baby to another family.
With all this pensiveness and empathy in my system last night, my baby twisted and kicked for the better part of my sleep hours. I found a little body part (a hand? a foot?), and held on, thankful for my gift of motherhood and for the unconditional support John gives me. I couldn't do this alone.
16 April 2008
Call Me Garden Sally
Tommy and I are excited for our summer project of growing tomatoes.Tommy isn't willing to eat the tomatoes, but he can't wait to use the watering pitcher to care for them. We're hoping the tomatoes grow as big and as delicious as Great Grandpa's.My mother claims her Dad would occasionally go on a summer diet, eating only tomatoes for several weeks. Yum. Homegrown tomatoes with a touch of salt and balsamic? I could live off that for a good, long while.
In My Life
Keri Russell and her cohorts don't get everything right in the 2007 film The Waitress. On the whole, though, I did find it rather amusing. One thing I'd like to cultivate, though, is her character's ability to create pies in her mind. I'm adding the creation of at least one great pie to my list of goals in life.
On the Subject of Living Large
Phew. According to the technical quiz in today's local paper, we do not live in a McMansion. I guess our townhouse could be categorized better as the mini version. My favorite (or, more precisely, my least favorite) characteristic is the fake facade---brick or shakes on just the most-viewed portion of the home. Classic.
Actually, though, I didn't really define McMansion by these standards until I read the article. I used to think a McMansion was a newly-built home that dwarfed its neighbors.
There are definitely some characteristics of the McMansion that appeal to me: I'd love to have 4 upper level bedrooms in our next house. On the other hand, the sheer size of these homes makes them daunting to fill and daunting to clean. Do we really want to live somewhere that doesn't feel like a full home?
Now is the point where I begin kicking myself over not more seriously considering that older home John and I looked at about a month ago.
Actually, though, I didn't really define McMansion by these standards until I read the article. I used to think a McMansion was a newly-built home that dwarfed its neighbors.
There are definitely some characteristics of the McMansion that appeal to me: I'd love to have 4 upper level bedrooms in our next house. On the other hand, the sheer size of these homes makes them daunting to fill and daunting to clean. Do we really want to live somewhere that doesn't feel like a full home?
Now is the point where I begin kicking myself over not more seriously considering that older home John and I looked at about a month ago.
15 April 2008
14 April 2008
It Goes So Fast: This Weekend
As usual, it's Monday morning and it seems like Friday to Sunday is a blur that passed without enough time in between. Lucy was sick this weekend with quite a fever (103.5), so we spent most of the weekend hanging out at home and canceling plans. John went to the Wild game Friday night, and I caught up on my brother's latest novel. While I was reading, the local cops (4 squad cars full of them) were outside my bedroom window questioning two guys. I'm waiting to get the scoop from an inside source.
On Saturday, Tommy and I went to the gym. He played dinosaurs and I ran. Then we hit the grocery store, and he behaved like an angel as he gulped down a Slurpee and about 10 food samples. For dinner on Saturday night, I pulled out the George Foreman grill to make grilled chicken sandwiches on thick French rolls. I sliced up avocado, slathered on mayo, and also added my new favorite type of tomato---Campari. Yum.
On Sunday, John & I alternated church attendance to take a break from holy discipline. Then we walked around the mall, met the cousins for ice cream, and convinced my sister to keep an eye on Tommy while we took Lucy out for Mexican food. Lucy loved a bit a personal time out with Mom and Dad. She garnered attention from several nearby tables, and danced back and forth in her highchair to the music of a charming trio.
Then it was an all-new Desperate Housewives (finally!), and off to bed.
On Saturday, Tommy and I went to the gym. He played dinosaurs and I ran. Then we hit the grocery store, and he behaved like an angel as he gulped down a Slurpee and about 10 food samples. For dinner on Saturday night, I pulled out the George Foreman grill to make grilled chicken sandwiches on thick French rolls. I sliced up avocado, slathered on mayo, and also added my new favorite type of tomato---Campari. Yum.
On Sunday, John & I alternated church attendance to take a break from holy discipline. Then we walked around the mall, met the cousins for ice cream, and convinced my sister to keep an eye on Tommy while we took Lucy out for Mexican food. Lucy loved a bit a personal time out with Mom and Dad. She garnered attention from several nearby tables, and danced back and forth in her highchair to the music of a charming trio.
Then it was an all-new Desperate Housewives (finally!), and off to bed.
Secrets to Surviving Pregnancy: Good Seamlessness
There is a weird phenomenon in the world of maternity clothes: apparently, if you are carrying a baby, you are supposed to show as much cleavage as possible. This may work great for 1st time moms who are trying to show off their hot stuff, but when I'm constantly bending over to play with Lucy or help Tommy zip his jacket, I don't need to give playgroup a peep show. 
I've taken to wearing seamless camisoles under almost every shirt. This one from A Pea in the Pod is extra-long to offer serious coverage of a growing belly. It's little spendy, but for the first 2 trimesters, I used cheaper models from some teenie-bop store called Charlotte Russe. Wherever you get yours , elasticity is a key factor. Before I discovered this, I bought cotton tanks that shrunk with constant washing and didn't expand well...as I do.
I've taken to wearing seamless camisoles under almost every shirt. This one from A Pea in the Pod is extra-long to offer serious coverage of a growing belly. It's little spendy, but for the first 2 trimesters, I used cheaper models from some teenie-bop store called Charlotte Russe. Wherever you get yours , elasticity is a key factor. Before I discovered this, I bought cotton tanks that shrunk with constant washing and didn't expand well...as I do.
Secrets to Surviving Pregnancy: Vicks Vapo Rub
One of many annoying pregnancy symptoms is having your sinuses clogged continuously...for 9 months. What the heck do sinuses have to do with gestating? Anyway, if it weren't for Vicks, I would've spent many hours laying awake in these past months.
13 April 2008
Excerpt from the Car Ride
Tommy: Grader, grader, where are you??
Tommy [as the Grader]: I'm down here! On the floor!
Tommy: I can't reach you!
Tommy [as the Grader]: Really?!
Tommy: Yeah!
Tommy [as the Grader]: I'm down here! On the floor!
Tommy: I can't reach you!
Tommy [as the Grader]: Really?!
Tommy: Yeah!
I'm Getting Smarter All The Time
I now know that when I take a bath, the rest of the family doesn't interpret this is as a private activity.
Best idea: Lock the door, slip on the iPod, and ignore the chaos in motion.
Best idea: Lock the door, slip on the iPod, and ignore the chaos in motion.
10 April 2008
Evil, Evil, Evil
Sometimes my sister tells me stories of things her kids have done, and then, as if through ESP, my children absorb and repeat these ordeals. One example of this was last spring: Tommy was just under 2 years old when he made like his cousins and busted out of Sarah's house with a large bottle of hand soap. I found him in the street a few minutes later, playing with the bottle of soap as a car rolled up the street.
A similar cousin-style feisty action began occurring this week. Now that Tommy realizes he can control his urine stream, he stashes away just a tad of pee for each time he is forced to take a nap, say goodnight, or go in timeout. "But I peeeeeeeed!" He cries, pointing to the drop of urine on his pants. For about the first 6 times this happened, John and I played along, exasperatedly changing his outfit and letting him postpone bed and/or punishment.
No longer, kid. We're onto you.
Today, I informed Tommy that poop or pee, he'd be finishing his timeouts no matter what incident occurred in his pants. The look on his face was just priceless.
You can try, Tomster, but you'll never win.
A similar cousin-style feisty action began occurring this week. Now that Tommy realizes he can control his urine stream, he stashes away just a tad of pee for each time he is forced to take a nap, say goodnight, or go in timeout. "But I peeeeeeeed!" He cries, pointing to the drop of urine on his pants. For about the first 6 times this happened, John and I played along, exasperatedly changing his outfit and letting him postpone bed and/or punishment.
No longer, kid. We're onto you.
Today, I informed Tommy that poop or pee, he'd be finishing his timeouts no matter what incident occurred in his pants. The look on his face was just priceless.
You can try, Tomster, but you'll never win.
09 April 2008
Adjustable Waist for the Whole Fam
I just bought these new maternity pants from the Gap this morning. In prior pregnancies, I felt more comfortable with a full-stomach panel, but these days, it seems like my stomach outgrows the panel but I need pants that are tighter everywhere else. Additionally, as it gets hotter (if it gets hotter), the under-the-stomach feel might be more comfy. Great news! Adjustable waist isn't just for toddlers and grandparents anymore. I cinched in these pants for now, and I'm sure to be letting loose as the weeks pass by.
Three Frames
The kids and I packed it up, and headed to Bed, Bath, & Beyond this morning. I rarely visit this store, possibly because it is an accident waiting to happen. As we breezed through, though, I spotted three 8 x 10 frames in a dark finish for our bedroom. They are pre-matted, so now I just need to find three great images to frame. I've been checking out images from shutterstock, but I'm not surely what motif I even want. It would be nice to have some scenic shots from places we've visited, but we haven't really taken great quality pictures ourselves. Should I go with three shots from the same location? Or mix it up?
08 April 2008
So Sassy
It runs in the family. Check out my cousins' new online shop, Zeichen Press. If you've got a messy break-up in your near future, you just have to stash this card away.
My Ear of Corn is Growing
Since I've spent about 25 months pregnant in the last 3 years (hey, who's counting?), you'd think I'd have the gestational growth chart pretty much down pat by now. I still subscribe, though, to an online newsletter which gives me weekly updates as to the new developments of my baby in utero. According to BabyCenter, #3 this week is approximately the size of an ear of corn. Last night, as I lay awake, the corn was jabbing at my stomach in several areas at once. Really. Hard. I don't think the other kids were this powerful at such a young age, and this has to be a bad sign.
07 April 2008
A Slow Spring Start
This weekend started off with a bang when Tommy woke up Friday with his classic Croup cough. John and I both had a congested chest cold earlier in the week, so I'd assumed one or both of our kids would catch it. Tommy has been to the E.R. about a half-dozen times for Croup. The cough is always worse at night; they treat his cough and restricted air flow with a nebulizer and oral steroids. Thankfully, for the 1st time, we were able to head off a hospital visit and have our regular clinic prescribe the steroids. Shortly after Lucy was born, Tommy had a very serious Croup case and was actually the in the hospital for a few days. He is still coughing this morning; I'm hoping it passes soon and that Lucy doesn't develop a case of her own.
Due to the illness, our hot date on Friday was canceled. Instead, we rented La Vie en Rose, a fabulous and sobering French picture detailing the life of a rising and falling starlet, Edith Piaf. While John and I generally feel that films these days could stand to have a few minutes edited out, this picture is really worth its entirety.
The weekend overall was casual, with Tommy trying out his new imitation Crocs and John hanging my massive wall mirror in the bedroom. Yesterday, the rain kept us indoors for the most part. This week, I'm on the hunt for picture frames, a rocking chair, and lamps. The dream bed will have to wait.
I hear Lucy calling, "Mama! Mama!" so my weekend is officially over.
Due to the illness, our hot date on Friday was canceled. Instead, we rented La Vie en Rose, a fabulous and sobering French picture detailing the life of a rising and falling starlet, Edith Piaf. While John and I generally feel that films these days could stand to have a few minutes edited out, this picture is really worth its entirety.The weekend overall was casual, with Tommy trying out his new imitation Crocs and John hanging my massive wall mirror in the bedroom. Yesterday, the rain kept us indoors for the most part. This week, I'm on the hunt for picture frames, a rocking chair, and lamps. The dream bed will have to wait.
I hear Lucy calling, "Mama! Mama!" so my weekend is officially over.
04 April 2008
Pen to Paper Source
While uptown last night, I visited a spot glaringly absent from the suburbs: Paper Source. This supply store is surprisingly affordable, and caters to both the seriously creative and the casual letter-writers, like me.
The Dating Game
Last night's book club (we've entertained a nomination to rename ourselves as My Book Club Should Really Be Called Wine Club) featured little discussion of our hilarious read, Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim by David Sedaris. That's a positive, though, because in our lack of book discussion, we had plenty of time to discuss the dating disasters of several single ladies. Truly, I don't think I have laughed so hard since we watched Death at a Funeral. I wish I could indulge you with some of these dates from hell, but I think I'll keep them private for the sake of the guilty. Perhaps someday they, too, will find their matches. As I drove home out of the city last night, I was overcome by a feeling of true female camaraderie. It occurred to me that the women around me were each in their own unique stages of life and love---some single, some dating, some married and pregnant. And yet our laughter and empathy for one another through the trials and successes of these various stages was so genuine. As we stuffed our faces with crudites and hummus, I wondered, can men possibly bond on this level at poker night?
03 April 2008
My Secret Sin of Pride
Generally, as a pregnant lady, I really suck. I am a whiner, I hate getting bigger, and I regret to say that I'm not a good sport at all. This time around, though, I have a secret weapon.*
After Lucy was born, I worked really hard to get back in shape. I didn't get entirely where I wanted to be, but my endurance was up enough that I fairly easily continued working out into this pregnancy. This is the 1st time I've really pushed myself in running (or moving, for that matter) while pregnant, and it feels great! I am so much more confident about my body, and I feel so powerful when I realize that people are looking at me at the gym thinking, Wow, that pregnant lady is sure making an effort!
I'm 24 weeks pregnant right now, and I'm not sure how long the running will continue. I've had to slow down a bit, but I still go about 2.5 miles every other day. That's something, at least. I figure when my belly starts to really get astronomical, I'll switch machines or maybe continue the treadmill slowly at a higher incline.
*For those who are unaware, I do have another, more important, secret weapon. He is my doctor, whom I've nicknamed He-Man. Dr. He-Man takes pity on me because my infants come out at about the size of an average 4 month old, and he induces me smartly at 37 weeks.
After Lucy was born, I worked really hard to get back in shape. I didn't get entirely where I wanted to be, but my endurance was up enough that I fairly easily continued working out into this pregnancy. This is the 1st time I've really pushed myself in running (or moving, for that matter) while pregnant, and it feels great! I am so much more confident about my body, and I feel so powerful when I realize that people are looking at me at the gym thinking, Wow, that pregnant lady is sure making an effort!
I'm 24 weeks pregnant right now, and I'm not sure how long the running will continue. I've had to slow down a bit, but I still go about 2.5 miles every other day. That's something, at least. I figure when my belly starts to really get astronomical, I'll switch machines or maybe continue the treadmill slowly at a higher incline.
*For those who are unaware, I do have another, more important, secret weapon. He is my doctor, whom I've nicknamed He-Man. Dr. He-Man takes pity on me because my infants come out at about the size of an average 4 month old, and he induces me smartly at 37 weeks.
Bedroom Underway
I love World Market for its affordability and great cheeses. Yesterday, my Mom and I stopped by to check things out, and I bought this large mirror on a bit of a whim. The mirror had a few scrapes, so I haggled with the manager for a discount. He tried to give me just 20% off, but I ended up paying $110, which was 40% off the original price. Little did he know that any Martha Stewart fan would just fill those tiny scratches with shoe polish and **voilla**! The mirror isn't quite the full-length that I envisioned for our bedroom, but I took it because the wood frame was significant and beautiful, the price was right, and on second thought, a mirror out of reach of Tommy's Bob the Builder tool set is probably a good thing.
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