My daughter has small feet, compared to her peers, so why is it that her steps sound like a herd of elephants. I wake up every morning to the bang, bang of her little feet hitting the floor. She is three-years-old. Small and wiry, yet I'd mistake her for a 200-pound man running down the stairs to wake me up at 6:15 a.m., again. Then, like clockwork, she climbs into bed, stepping on my head, sitting on my head, pulling my hair out with her feet because her toes are now tangled up in my unruly curly mop, and cheers quite loudly in her high-pitch, deafening screech, "Morning time mommy, wake up!"
SSSHHHHH! I reply. "Ten more minutes." Then, she stands up and starts jumping on the bed. How much coffee has she had already, I wonder. And, why has she not brought me some. I tell her to go start the coffee and she cracks herself up. She jumps and jumps, then kicks my husband in the nuts and lands on my gut. He howls. I scream. She cries.
Just another wonderful morning at my house.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Sit and be still
Sit and be still. How many times have you said that to your kid? Once? Twice? A hundred times? How many times have said that to yourself? Probably, not many. Instead, we tell ourselves, “Keep going – get the laundry done, start dinner, vacuum.” Your inner voice screams and repeats over and over and over again, “Don’t sit down because if you do it’s over! If you sit, even for a minute, you’ll get tired and want to rest. And, if you rest your inefficient.” Tick Tick Tick, says your mind. Your temples start to throb. Time is running out, so you manage to keep your feet moving and your arms flailing to succeed as the top contestant of the mother-of-the-year award.
If you are anything like me you are in and out of appointments, rushing from one activity to the next; throwing in laundry on the way out and eating meals while dropping and picking kids up from school or soccer or hockey or violin lessons, etc. Before you realize it, another year has passed and sadly, the mother-of-the-year award went to some fictitious character who presumably resembled June Cleaver, or the modern day version: She was always ten minutes early to drop off her squeaky, clean kids at school,. Of course, she wears her perfectly-fit skinny jeans, crispy white fitted t-shirt; her hair and nails were always perfect. Her teeth even sparkled white and she was always pleasant, even to her kids. Their lunch boxes probably contained marinated okra with black bean compote and a side of strawberries and freshly squeezed pomegranate juice, and to make matters worse, the kids ate it. The thought of it all secretly makes your squeamish, but you would never admit it.
You, on the other hand, drop your kids off wearing the same sweatpants you vowed to throw away many times in the past two years. At least they still fit, right? You hope no body speaks to you because you rushed out the door, forgetting to brush your teeth, towing your two kids and their lunch boxes of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, and their shoes and their backpacks and your shoes and your coffee tumbler, all practically balancing on your head.
At least you made it out the door. Then, on the drive to school you blare the music to your kids’ favorite morning song, ‘It’s a beautiful day,’ by U2. Your fictitious mom is probably listening to Antonio Vivaldi, one of the greatest composers of all time!
As soon as you get to school you shoo them out the door and tell them to get to class, “Hurry, hurry! Run, don’t be late. Go, go now.”
With all the rushing and commotion, one of your kid;s forgets his backpack.Now, you areforced to park the car and enter the school wearing your ragged sweatpants and ferocious breath.
So, how can your children sit and be still if you can’t even do it? In order to be still, you need to stop moving and rid yourself of the excess noise. So, does that mean cover your kid’s mouths with duct tape and toss them in the basement until dinner? Well, the thought had crossed my mind but social services would be here in a flash and I need those tax deductions. (Ya’ll know I am kidding, right?)
The excess noise I am referring to is the radio, the television, the videogames - all the stuff that clutters your mind. Get rid of it all and listen. Listen to the wind, the birds, the chitter chatter of your kids at play. Listen to your life and how it passes by each day, quite swiftly I must add. Just today, I attempted to read a new book my three-year-old daughter and I checked out from the library. Before I even cracked open the book, my daughter told me the story’s premise. How did she know that? I wondered. I asked her who read this to her before. She said, “You did mommy. We got this book before.” I was stumped. I didn’t even recognize the book; well, maybe a little now that I study the cover, but I couldn’t tell you what it was about, yet I had read it before. My body was still when I read it but my mind was racing somewhere else. I couldn’t recall it all.
Sadly, I wondered what other moments in her life I had forgotten. I’ve been so preoccupied with getting through the day, or knocking the next item from my to-do list that I have missed out on time. Her time! Apparently, I am an excellent multi-tasker – I may be able to handle it all but I sure as heck can’t tell you what I handled. So, where does that leave me? Well, right now I am going to sit and be still and watch my daughter dance to her favorite television show, “Olivia” – because that is what she is doing right this second.
And, the fictitious mom I talked about earlier, well, she doesn’t exist. So, off with her head!
If you are anything like me you are in and out of appointments, rushing from one activity to the next; throwing in laundry on the way out and eating meals while dropping and picking kids up from school or soccer or hockey or violin lessons, etc. Before you realize it, another year has passed and sadly, the mother-of-the-year award went to some fictitious character who presumably resembled June Cleaver, or the modern day version: She was always ten minutes early to drop off her squeaky, clean kids at school,. Of course, she wears her perfectly-fit skinny jeans, crispy white fitted t-shirt; her hair and nails were always perfect. Her teeth even sparkled white and she was always pleasant, even to her kids. Their lunch boxes probably contained marinated okra with black bean compote and a side of strawberries and freshly squeezed pomegranate juice, and to make matters worse, the kids ate it. The thought of it all secretly makes your squeamish, but you would never admit it.
You, on the other hand, drop your kids off wearing the same sweatpants you vowed to throw away many times in the past two years. At least they still fit, right? You hope no body speaks to you because you rushed out the door, forgetting to brush your teeth, towing your two kids and their lunch boxes of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, and their shoes and their backpacks and your shoes and your coffee tumbler, all practically balancing on your head.
At least you made it out the door. Then, on the drive to school you blare the music to your kids’ favorite morning song, ‘It’s a beautiful day,’ by U2. Your fictitious mom is probably listening to Antonio Vivaldi, one of the greatest composers of all time!
As soon as you get to school you shoo them out the door and tell them to get to class, “Hurry, hurry! Run, don’t be late. Go, go now.”
With all the rushing and commotion, one of your kid;s forgets his backpack.Now, you areforced to park the car and enter the school wearing your ragged sweatpants and ferocious breath.
So, how can your children sit and be still if you can’t even do it? In order to be still, you need to stop moving and rid yourself of the excess noise. So, does that mean cover your kid’s mouths with duct tape and toss them in the basement until dinner? Well, the thought had crossed my mind but social services would be here in a flash and I need those tax deductions. (Ya’ll know I am kidding, right?)
The excess noise I am referring to is the radio, the television, the videogames - all the stuff that clutters your mind. Get rid of it all and listen. Listen to the wind, the birds, the chitter chatter of your kids at play. Listen to your life and how it passes by each day, quite swiftly I must add. Just today, I attempted to read a new book my three-year-old daughter and I checked out from the library. Before I even cracked open the book, my daughter told me the story’s premise. How did she know that? I wondered. I asked her who read this to her before. She said, “You did mommy. We got this book before.” I was stumped. I didn’t even recognize the book; well, maybe a little now that I study the cover, but I couldn’t tell you what it was about, yet I had read it before. My body was still when I read it but my mind was racing somewhere else. I couldn’t recall it all.
Sadly, I wondered what other moments in her life I had forgotten. I’ve been so preoccupied with getting through the day, or knocking the next item from my to-do list that I have missed out on time. Her time! Apparently, I am an excellent multi-tasker – I may be able to handle it all but I sure as heck can’t tell you what I handled. So, where does that leave me? Well, right now I am going to sit and be still and watch my daughter dance to her favorite television show, “Olivia” – because that is what she is doing right this second.
And, the fictitious mom I talked about earlier, well, she doesn’t exist. So, off with her head!
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
I am back
Hey there. Well, I've taken a several months sabbatical. A lot has happened since my last entry. My daughter is walking, climbing, dancing, screaming, cuddling, stomping her feet, teasing her brother, and pretty much ruling the roost over here. Currently she is running around the house carrying a large magnifying glass, the diameter is the size of her face, up to her face. She is squishing her nose against the glass like a little piggy and screaming loudly.
Meanwhile, my son, my little darling, told me to be patient yesterday when I told him it was time to leave the TreeHouse, Chelsea's indoor kid playground. So, who is in charge you ask? Good question.
Meanwhile, my son, my little darling, told me to be patient yesterday when I told him it was time to leave the TreeHouse, Chelsea's indoor kid playground. So, who is in charge you ask? Good question.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Moments in time
Every moment and every breath is a moment in our past. Have you ever had a moment that was so dear to you that you knew immediately that you would remember it forever. Most of the time we are running around ragged trying to get things done or to get somewhere on time that we don't experience the fullness of every moment. We are all guilty of it. It would be weird for us not to be - that is what makes these moments so special. Well, I had a brief moment today that caught my attention and this brief still in my life will be carried with me forever.
I'll try to explain it but it won't seem significant to you. But, if you are a mom you know what I am talking about.
So there I was on my computer checking email, of course. Nolan was sitting on the potty and Addison was crawling in the den at my feet. Suddenly, Nolan comes into the den naked. As you may already know a three-years-old must remove all articles of clothing to make a poop in the potty. I wonder why that is? Well, anyway, my naked Nolan comes into the room pouting, "I want hugs, mom. Mom I want big hugs." So I get on the floor and hug him tight. He proceeds to tackle me to the ground, hugging me tighter and pinning me on my back. So we lay their hugging; my son on top of me, my left arm hugging him back while my right arm lay flat on the ground extended out straight and long. Moments later Addison crawls up and snuggles her butt inside the angle of my body, resting her head gently on my right shoulder and like a puppy dog petting herself against my right arm so that I would include her in the hug. And so my moment happened. We all lay on the floor snuggling together safe and sound. I will never ever forget that hug.
I'll try to explain it but it won't seem significant to you. But, if you are a mom you know what I am talking about.
So there I was on my computer checking email, of course. Nolan was sitting on the potty and Addison was crawling in the den at my feet. Suddenly, Nolan comes into the den naked. As you may already know a three-years-old must remove all articles of clothing to make a poop in the potty. I wonder why that is? Well, anyway, my naked Nolan comes into the room pouting, "I want hugs, mom. Mom I want big hugs." So I get on the floor and hug him tight. He proceeds to tackle me to the ground, hugging me tighter and pinning me on my back. So we lay their hugging; my son on top of me, my left arm hugging him back while my right arm lay flat on the ground extended out straight and long. Moments later Addison crawls up and snuggles her butt inside the angle of my body, resting her head gently on my right shoulder and like a puppy dog petting herself against my right arm so that I would include her in the hug. And so my moment happened. We all lay on the floor snuggling together safe and sound. I will never ever forget that hug.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
What does Santa want for Christmas?
Have you ever wondered what Santa Claus wants for Christmas? He must want something. His red velvet jumpsuit is totally outdated and I am certain the warranty on his sleigh expired years ago. Has anyone ever seen his list? Probably not and he has probably never made one; it is the farthest thing from his mind. That is what makes Santa Claus so wonderful. He gives without receiving, expects nothing and knows everything. Hmm. How do we ever repay him?
Well, I am going to make a list for Santa and if I could afford an excursion to the North Pole to deliver the items I would. So Santa, wherever you are, thanks for all the gifts that I have received over the past three or so decades. Here are a few things I think you need.
1. A new hairdo - With the right cut you could look like Robert Redford.
2. A new outfit - Red pants are out-of-style.
3. A new ride - It's got to be cold out there, don't you think? How about a new copper red Mazda CX-7: safety, quality and affordable all wrapped up with a bow. Heated seats can warm your tush and the hatchback is big enough to stow all the toys. There is even room for a few reindeer; they can accompany you on your trip.
4. A little help - Santa, you are only one person and I think it's time we all pitch in and help with the gift giving. So, in honor of you, let's all give a gift to someone we don't know.
What's that Santa? Speak up.
Oh, yeah. I didn't think about that. If you don't have your sleigh to land on the roof top how would you get inside to deliver the presents. Well, I guess the car is out. Just leave the keys with me. And, since you are out in the cold weather you should wear your red velvet pants; they will keep you warm. The boots can go, though. You know....Santa, crocs are very popular this year; they also come with an insulated interior.
Well, I am going to make a list for Santa and if I could afford an excursion to the North Pole to deliver the items I would. So Santa, wherever you are, thanks for all the gifts that I have received over the past three or so decades. Here are a few things I think you need.
1. A new hairdo - With the right cut you could look like Robert Redford.
2. A new outfit - Red pants are out-of-style.
3. A new ride - It's got to be cold out there, don't you think? How about a new copper red Mazda CX-7: safety, quality and affordable all wrapped up with a bow. Heated seats can warm your tush and the hatchback is big enough to stow all the toys. There is even room for a few reindeer; they can accompany you on your trip.
4. A little help - Santa, you are only one person and I think it's time we all pitch in and help with the gift giving. So, in honor of you, let's all give a gift to someone we don't know.
What's that Santa? Speak up.
Oh, yeah. I didn't think about that. If you don't have your sleigh to land on the roof top how would you get inside to deliver the presents. Well, I guess the car is out. Just leave the keys with me. And, since you are out in the cold weather you should wear your red velvet pants; they will keep you warm. The boots can go, though. You know....Santa, crocs are very popular this year; they also come with an insulated interior.
Monday, December 3, 2007
Christmas Shopping
Well, I failed at my first attempt to finish holiday shopping early. On Friday I decided I was going to start and finish my Christmas shopping this weekend. That idea went up in flames when I realized I wasn't going to get out at all to shop. But, I did manage to buy one gift. So, I'll try again this week.
I am enjoying the season, though. Despite bitter temperatures I ran 8 miles and saved myself, just a little, from over-indulging in party foods both Saturday and Sunday night. I love the Christmas season. The celebratory moments begin early with Christmas parties, appearances by Santa who often comes with plates piled high with cookies and cake snacks, and of course all the time spent at church remembering and giving thanks for this holiday - my three-year-old son asked when we were going to sing Happy Birthday to Jesus. After I told him Christmas morning he asked how many candles would go on the cake. I was stumped! So now I guess I need a birthday cake as well as the other holiday goodies that have become our tradition.
So the season brings more than just festivities we can't decline. It also brings tighter blue jeans and tummy's that are at often times, still full in the morning. But we don't have to loose hope. We can stay motivated together. Just click on the link titled, "Running Through Life," to read about my workouts and tell us what you to do to allow yourself another Christmas cookie. And, if you want or are in need of a good holiday recipe click on the link titled, "Easy, Breezy Meals." In fact, the crock pot roast I made last night, for my in-laws, is one you won't want to miss. I was still hoorayed this morning and I still feel quite accomplished.
I am enjoying the season, though. Despite bitter temperatures I ran 8 miles and saved myself, just a little, from over-indulging in party foods both Saturday and Sunday night. I love the Christmas season. The celebratory moments begin early with Christmas parties, appearances by Santa who often comes with plates piled high with cookies and cake snacks, and of course all the time spent at church remembering and giving thanks for this holiday - my three-year-old son asked when we were going to sing Happy Birthday to Jesus. After I told him Christmas morning he asked how many candles would go on the cake. I was stumped! So now I guess I need a birthday cake as well as the other holiday goodies that have become our tradition.
So the season brings more than just festivities we can't decline. It also brings tighter blue jeans and tummy's that are at often times, still full in the morning. But we don't have to loose hope. We can stay motivated together. Just click on the link titled, "Running Through Life," to read about my workouts and tell us what you to do to allow yourself another Christmas cookie. And, if you want or are in need of a good holiday recipe click on the link titled, "Easy, Breezy Meals." In fact, the crock pot roast I made last night, for my in-laws, is one you won't want to miss. I was still hoorayed this morning and I still feel quite accomplished.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Enjoy the season
How many of you have started and finished your Christmas shopping? Well, we haven't started. I like to wait until the very last minute so that I can get all stressed out, spend too much money and freak out like all the other procrastinators waiting in line at the post office to mail their packages just days before Christmas morning.
If you are anything like me you are not sitting around twiddling your thumbs to the beat of Jingle Bells and enjoying every sip of mulled cider or hot cocoa. Instead, you are slamming your cup of coffee, half of it dripping down your face, half way out the door.
So what is the point to my rambling, you ask? Well, I am starting my New Year's resolution early. In fact, I am starting it now. I am going to be more organized and less stressed. So, my goal is to finish my shopping this weekend and enjoy the rest of the holiday, appreciating every scent of pine or cranberry, every taste of pumpkin spice and every hug and tug around my waist by my little ones asking for one more toy. I am going to enjoy it all.
If you are anything like me you are not sitting around twiddling your thumbs to the beat of Jingle Bells and enjoying every sip of mulled cider or hot cocoa. Instead, you are slamming your cup of coffee, half of it dripping down your face, half way out the door.
So what is the point to my rambling, you ask? Well, I am starting my New Year's resolution early. In fact, I am starting it now. I am going to be more organized and less stressed. So, my goal is to finish my shopping this weekend and enjoy the rest of the holiday, appreciating every scent of pine or cranberry, every taste of pumpkin spice and every hug and tug around my waist by my little ones asking for one more toy. I am going to enjoy it all.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
What everyone else wants for Christmas
Well, since I told you what I want for Christmas I better tell you what the rest of the family wants. Here we go:
Dad
1. More alone time with mom
2. Tickets to the Red-Wings
3. Tickets to the Lions
4. Tickets to MSU football game
5. Hunting weekend with no eyes-rolling, eyes-popping response of, "no way...not again."
6. More time with mom
7. Homemade pheasant casserole
8. A babysitter on New Year's Eve
9. To sleep in until 8 a.m.
10. More time with mom
What he will actually get
1. A black North Face Patagonia - since he lost his coat from last year. How do you loose a coat?
2. More time with mom
The kiddies
My three-year-old son
1. Birthday cake
What he will actually get
1. CandyLand - the Dora version
2. Twister - also on my list
3. Ice skating lessons
4. A train table - if I can find a used one
5. Chicka Chicka Boom Boom book - his favorite book from preschool
My nine-month-old
1. Gerber puffs
What she will actually get
1. Gerber puffs
2. My son's toys
3. The boxes my son's toys came in
4. An identification bracelet - a keepsake she will have for life
5. Baby and Me music classes from Kindermusic or from Chelsea Center for the Arts
Dad
1. More alone time with mom
2. Tickets to the Red-Wings
3. Tickets to the Lions
4. Tickets to MSU football game
5. Hunting weekend with no eyes-rolling, eyes-popping response of, "no way...not again."
6. More time with mom
7. Homemade pheasant casserole
8. A babysitter on New Year's Eve
9. To sleep in until 8 a.m.
10. More time with mom
What he will actually get
1. A black North Face Patagonia - since he lost his coat from last year. How do you loose a coat?
2. More time with mom
The kiddies
My three-year-old son
1. Birthday cake
What he will actually get
1. CandyLand - the Dora version
2. Twister - also on my list
3. Ice skating lessons
4. A train table - if I can find a used one
5. Chicka Chicka Boom Boom book - his favorite book from preschool
My nine-month-old
1. Gerber puffs
What she will actually get
1. Gerber puffs
2. My son's toys
3. The boxes my son's toys came in
4. An identification bracelet - a keepsake she will have for life
5. Baby and Me music classes from Kindermusic or from Chelsea Center for the Arts
All I want for Christmas Is
Can you believe it is Thanksgiving Day today? I can’t. And I can’t believe I have seen Santa twice already. The first time was just a few days after Halloween. I was charging through the mall when I spied the jolly old man, with his long curly beard, red jumpsuit and stocking hat. He already captured the attention of shoppers and children parading by. Yikes!
I am not ready to start thinking about the holidays. The temperatures are still manageable and the thought of snow, even flurries, makes my knees buckle. Sorry, Santa but I really wish you would go home and return in a few weeks. That is what I wanted to say, but since he is the one who fills the stockings I kept my mouth shut and smiled graciously.
But since you are already here you might as well have my wish list. These are the top ten gift items that all moms need.
1. Gift certificates to Bearclaw coffee
2. A 3-month pass to TreeHouse
3. Gift certificate for a massage
4. Car wash gift card
5. Cinnamon Bark countertop wash by Method
6. Annual pass to the Metro parks
7. The game of Twister
8. Yankee candle in a yummy scent like Banana Bread or Gingerbread
9. Lip plumper gloss by Avon
10. A digital camera to capture all the precious moments of my family.
Here are two bonus ideas since all suggestions are equally important and must remain on the list:
11. For the runner, like me, Nike + iPod Sport Kit
12. For the wine enthusiast the recently released book, “From the Vine: Exploring Michigan Wineries – this book can be purchased at your local book store or on the website www.michiganvine.com.
Whatever you do Santa, please don’t bring me candy. I am still recovering from sugar coma and bloating from Halloween. So, since the day after Thanksgiving is Black Friday, the busiest shopping day of the year, I thought you should know what today‘s mom wants for Christmas.
But don’t feel obligated to buy me anything, of course – all I really need is smiling faces and a lot of lights to surround my big Christmas tree. But, just for the record I have been very good this year.
I am not ready to start thinking about the holidays. The temperatures are still manageable and the thought of snow, even flurries, makes my knees buckle. Sorry, Santa but I really wish you would go home and return in a few weeks. That is what I wanted to say, but since he is the one who fills the stockings I kept my mouth shut and smiled graciously.
But since you are already here you might as well have my wish list. These are the top ten gift items that all moms need.
1. Gift certificates to Bearclaw coffee
2. A 3-month pass to TreeHouse
3. Gift certificate for a massage
4. Car wash gift card
5. Cinnamon Bark countertop wash by Method
6. Annual pass to the Metro parks
7. The game of Twister
8. Yankee candle in a yummy scent like Banana Bread or Gingerbread
9. Lip plumper gloss by Avon
10. A digital camera to capture all the precious moments of my family.
Here are two bonus ideas since all suggestions are equally important and must remain on the list:
11. For the runner, like me, Nike + iPod Sport Kit
12. For the wine enthusiast the recently released book, “From the Vine: Exploring Michigan Wineries – this book can be purchased at your local book store or on the website www.michiganvine.com.
Whatever you do Santa, please don’t bring me candy. I am still recovering from sugar coma and bloating from Halloween. So, since the day after Thanksgiving is Black Friday, the busiest shopping day of the year, I thought you should know what today‘s mom wants for Christmas.
But don’t feel obligated to buy me anything, of course – all I really need is smiling faces and a lot of lights to surround my big Christmas tree. But, just for the record I have been very good this year.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Thursday, November 8, 2007
What potty training tactics worked for you?
Lesson learned. No more gum drops. No more candy, period! Apparently, all my attempts to bribe my three-year-old son with gum drops failed when I reached the bottom of the candy dish and realized I was the only one suffering from sugar coma. Ugh! Now, I feel totally bloated, especially since Halloween has come and gone and more sugar has spiraled me out of control. At least I am potty trained. But he is still not, well wasn't until today when I finally realized he could care less about the last gum drop in the sugar bowl. I might as well lick the bowl clean - that's how bad I've been.
So, in my last attempt to rid him of diapers I said, "No more shows until you go poop or pee in the potty. No more Blue's Clue's, no more Dora and no more Diego." For two days we didn't turn the television on, and then he started asking to watch a show. I didn't cave. Guess what? It worked. I am brilliant! First he went poop in the potty and hoorayed himself until the cows came home. Next he went pee and bowed to receive his prize of an episode of Dora. Now, he is hooked and I am smiling pretty. I just hope he doesn't expect to watch television every time he makes something in the pot. Now, I've got bigger fish to fry.
The sad part of this story is that I don't even like gum drops.
So, in my last attempt to rid him of diapers I said, "No more shows until you go poop or pee in the potty. No more Blue's Clue's, no more Dora and no more Diego." For two days we didn't turn the television on, and then he started asking to watch a show. I didn't cave. Guess what? It worked. I am brilliant! First he went poop in the potty and hoorayed himself until the cows came home. Next he went pee and bowed to receive his prize of an episode of Dora. Now, he is hooked and I am smiling pretty. I just hope he doesn't expect to watch television every time he makes something in the pot. Now, I've got bigger fish to fry.
The sad part of this story is that I don't even like gum drops.
Sunday, November 4, 2007
My daughter is a goat
Help! I think my daughter is turning into a goat. Pinocchio turned into one, remember? Or, was it a donkey? Well, I think Addison is turning into one, too. Every time I turn around she is eating something: paper, crumbs, leaves, dirt, scraps of food from the floor, toys and then paper, again. I am constantly scooping things out of her mouth - once it was a little rubber stopper from the top of my perfume bottle. How did she get it you ask? Good question. As much as I praise myself for keeping an iron-clad, child-proof home I am stunned to find her chewing on yet another foreign object. Hooray for the angels who keep an extra eye on her and for the goats who have given me something to talk about today.
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Let me explain
If you were trick-or-treating at my house you probably wondered why I still have a tulip wreath hanging on my front door. You probably also want to know why there was a scary looking spider web weaved through its center. Well, I was going for that look. It's Halloween and I was pretending it was still Spring and well, about the spider web, I was trying to scare you. Did it work?
I am a faker, too
Alright, I got caught red-handed. I am a faker, too. My husband quickly pointed out that I admitted, in writing, to be pretend sleeping when he came to bed the other night. So, for the record we are both fakers.
If you have no idea what I am talking about please read the excerpts below.
If you have no idea what I am talking about please read the excerpts below.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Give a little. Take a lot!
Not the title we are used to. Usually we say, "Give a lot, take a little." But not on Halloween. On Halloween it is the opposite, if you are a parent. Now wait, let me explain my comment before you run off saying that I told you to take the candy and run. Nope, not what I meant.
Halloween is my favorite holiday of the year. I love pumpkin picking, hayrides, haunted houses, cider and donuts and, most of all, dressing up in costume. For one day of the year we can be whatever we want - something funny, scary, beautiful. There are no limits on Halloween - the only rule is that we are not ourselves for the day, well not on the outside anyway.
On top of utilizing our creative energy to the fullest degree on the most spirited day of the year, we are encouraged to eat candy all the while. Usually, we skip the candy aisle in the grocery store. Usually, we tell our child to put down the piece of chocolate. But today we let them have it. We dress them up; we take their picture for the hundredth time repeatedly saying, "cheese, look at me." And, then we shove a piece of candy in their mouth. At the end of the day they are all sugared up and fall to bed, comatose.
Later, when the magic ends and the sugar dissolves into nothing we expect them to go back to their normal routine of putting the chocolate down and skipping dessert. "Yeah, right," our kids think. So the title of "Give a little, take a lot" comes into play. Go trick or treating and get as much candy as you want. And, at the end of the day let them revel in the sugar, a little and take the rest. Hide it. Destroy it. Give it away or save it and, once in a while, let them have a piece to remind them of the special treat Halloween brings only once a year.
Halloween is my favorite holiday of the year. I love pumpkin picking, hayrides, haunted houses, cider and donuts and, most of all, dressing up in costume. For one day of the year we can be whatever we want - something funny, scary, beautiful. There are no limits on Halloween - the only rule is that we are not ourselves for the day, well not on the outside anyway.
On top of utilizing our creative energy to the fullest degree on the most spirited day of the year, we are encouraged to eat candy all the while. Usually, we skip the candy aisle in the grocery store. Usually, we tell our child to put down the piece of chocolate. But today we let them have it. We dress them up; we take their picture for the hundredth time repeatedly saying, "cheese, look at me." And, then we shove a piece of candy in their mouth. At the end of the day they are all sugared up and fall to bed, comatose.
Later, when the magic ends and the sugar dissolves into nothing we expect them to go back to their normal routine of putting the chocolate down and skipping dessert. "Yeah, right," our kids think. So the title of "Give a little, take a lot" comes into play. Go trick or treating and get as much candy as you want. And, at the end of the day let them revel in the sugar, a little and take the rest. Hide it. Destroy it. Give it away or save it and, once in a while, let them have a piece to remind them of the special treat Halloween brings only once a year.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Another long night
This is how it all went down. After a tiresome day with two non-sleepy children I went to bed early, 9:45 p.m. I was thrilled to tuck myself into bed and sleep tight until morning. I knew my 8-month-old wouldn't stir because she only slept five hours the night before and remained up all day, teasing me with cat naps. So, there I lay waiting to fall asleep. I finally fell into dream land when my husband came to bed at 11:45 p.m. He can't silently ease into bed. But, I pretend to be asleep, you all know why. So, anyways after he starts snoring I get up to use the bathroom for the final time. It's now 12:15 p.m and I fall asleep again; my REM sleeps takes off. Uhhhh, I finally retreat into a non-mom mode, in my dreams.
The red light blinks 1:30 a.m. when two tiny feet shuffle into my room. "Nolan, go back to bed," I repeat several times in a loud whisper. His feet turn and he heads back to his room. "Uhhh, that wasn't to bad," I think. Moments later, the shuffle returns. He doesn't say anything. He sneaks in the room, tries to climb into bed with us, without us knowing of course. Peeking at the clock, 2:05 a.m. "Go back to bed, Nolan."
He turns and returns to his slumbering spot to return only 15 minutes later. Still, no words escape his lips. Finally, dad gets up and takes him back to bed. Dad never returns. Uhhh, finally.
And, so I doze off, dream plenty and wake to my 8-month-old at 4:25 a.m. "Holy Crap." I peel myself out of bed and somehow make it upstairs, I had yet to open my eyes. She is howling, now. But as I pull her up and hold her tight I can't be mad. She is my precious girl with big poops in her pants. I change her diaper and head back to bed. 4:45 a.m. shines bright.
5:20 a.m. blinks in my eyes as another howl yelps out of the baby monitor. I'll give her 5 minutes. If she is still crying I'll make a bottle. She is sound asleep in 4 minutes. The clock now reads 5:25 a.m., then 6:05 a.m., then 6:25 a.m.
Finally, I get up to go to the bathroom and then proceed to the coffee maker. Without caffeine I would fall flat on my face and die. Well, I wouldn't die because my kids would have too much fun climbing all over me and pulling my hair saying, "Giddy up, mama, giddy up." I'd have to get up to save my hair.
The red light blinks 1:30 a.m. when two tiny feet shuffle into my room. "Nolan, go back to bed," I repeat several times in a loud whisper. His feet turn and he heads back to his room. "Uhhh, that wasn't to bad," I think. Moments later, the shuffle returns. He doesn't say anything. He sneaks in the room, tries to climb into bed with us, without us knowing of course. Peeking at the clock, 2:05 a.m. "Go back to bed, Nolan."
He turns and returns to his slumbering spot to return only 15 minutes later. Still, no words escape his lips. Finally, dad gets up and takes him back to bed. Dad never returns. Uhhh, finally.
And, so I doze off, dream plenty and wake to my 8-month-old at 4:25 a.m. "Holy Crap." I peel myself out of bed and somehow make it upstairs, I had yet to open my eyes. She is howling, now. But as I pull her up and hold her tight I can't be mad. She is my precious girl with big poops in her pants. I change her diaper and head back to bed. 4:45 a.m. shines bright.
5:20 a.m. blinks in my eyes as another howl yelps out of the baby monitor. I'll give her 5 minutes. If she is still crying I'll make a bottle. She is sound asleep in 4 minutes. The clock now reads 5:25 a.m., then 6:05 a.m., then 6:25 a.m.
Finally, I get up to go to the bathroom and then proceed to the coffee maker. Without caffeine I would fall flat on my face and die. Well, I wouldn't die because my kids would have too much fun climbing all over me and pulling my hair saying, "Giddy up, mama, giddy up." I'd have to get up to save my hair.
Monday, October 29, 2007
My husband is a faker
Last night was not a good night. My 8-month-old was up all night long. She must be teething, again, because nothing could soothe her and no one could comfort her but me. Although, I was the only one trying. It always amazes me that I am the only one who hears a crying infant at night. Or, is it that my husband pretends not to hear. He is a faker: his eyes are shut tight, he faces away from me and all snoring stops. On most nights, he is in my face sawing logs. His snoring causes such disruption that I have sworn to send him right to the sleep lab for tests. His snoring has gotten so bad that I have cried at night out of pure frustration, or we spend most nights playing musical beds. So, get it together hubby. You don't fool me for a second.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Does the cost of Halloween costumes got you spooked?
Before running out the door to purchase your kid's Halloween costume, run right back inside and get on your computer. For months, Nolan said he wanted to be Clifford the Big Red Dog. I had visions of making his costume - a tall red dog made out of chicken wire and felt. He had to be big, right? I envisioned shaping chicken wire into a dog and extending it into the sky, to make him tall. Later, I would attach red fabric or felt around it. I wasn't sure how I would attach it. My creativity is prematurely stunted when it comes to sewing. My mom and sister Sarah got that gene. In the past I assigned them the task, but since my extended family has grown I can't expect them to make costumes for four children. Lucky for us all, my attempt to make him a hand-made costume failed when my husband found a costume on Ebay for $3. I was off the hook!
It arrived in the mail yesterday. It is perfect. He doesn't stand up tall in the sky, but his smile was wide and my wallet is full.
Before running out the door to purchase your kid's Halloween costume, run right back inside and get on your computer. For months, Nolan said he wanted to be Clifford the Big Red Dog. I had visions of making his costume - a tall red dog made out of chicken wire and felt. He had to be big, right? I envisioned shaping chicken wire into a dog and extending it into the sky, to make him tall. Later, I would attach red fabric or felt around it. I wasn't sure how I would attach it. My creativity is prematurely stunted when it comes to sewing. My mom and sister Sarah got that gene. In the past I assigned them the task, but since my extended family has grown I can't expect them to make costumes for four children. Lucky for us all, my attempt to make him a hand-made costume failed when my husband found a costume on Ebay for $3. I was off the hook!
It arrived in the mail yesterday. It is perfect. He doesn't stand up tall in the sky, but his smile was wide and my wallet is full.
Exercise at 7 a.m.
At 7 a.m. this morning my three-year-old son asked me to dance. "Right now?" I replied. "I havn't had my coffee." A jolt of caffeine does wonders for a sleepy mom who is up throughout the night with a teething 8-month-old. I wanted to say, "Do we have to?" But how often does a handsome young man take your hand, look deeply into your eyes as if you are the most beautiful creature in the world and, despite your spicy morning breath, say, "lets dance." And, so I did. I knelt down, picked him up, twirled him in circles and danced. I couldn't think of a better way to start my day. Now, where is my coffee?
At 7 a.m. this morning my three-year-old son asked me to dance. "Right now?" I replied. "I havn't had my coffee." A jolt of caffeine does wonders for a sleepy mom who is up throughout the night with a teething 8-month-old. I wanted to say, "Do we have to?" But how often does a handsome young man take your hand, look deeply into your eyes as if you are the most beautiful creature in the world and, despite your spicy morning breath, say, "lets dance." And, so I did. I knelt down, picked him up, twirled him in circles and danced. I couldn't think of a better way to start my day. Now, where is my coffee?
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