Day 1
Yesterday, I started a juice reboot. It was a term coined from a documentary I watched called Fat, Sick, and Nearly Dead. Great watch and I learned a lot of interesting information. I have had several people who have done a 3 day juice cleanse and they talked about the difficulty of it. I have decided to do a 10 day Reboot. Yesterday wasn't bad. I felt fine for the most part until the end of the day. The funniest part was how I kept reaching for food out of habit and not hunger. In the evening, I started to get a headache and the joints in my fingers and shoulders ached. My hope is that this is the bad part and will go away soon.
Day 2
Today, the headache and joint pain remain. I am still juice only, but I decided to tell people I was doing this. I spoke with a co-worker who did it for 3 days and says that she feels great. My understanding is that the ache is a detox of these areas of my body and they are healing. This is what I am hoping. Today was only juice and I have determined that I miss chewing. I found a great support group on Facebook that doesn't let you beat yourself up when it doesn't go the perfect way. Here is to tomorrow's juicing extravaganza!
Tuesday, June 25, 2019
Sunday, July 23, 2017
Pumpkins, Pools, and Rock and Roll
I was pleased to see I had posted in 2017, even if I don't really remember doing it. How sad am I?
But truly I am here to confess my new love, the one who will be the destroyer of my free time. He has become my secret obsession. He's like Voldemort and we can not speak his name, but I have come to find if I don't spend time with him each day, I get this nagging feeling that just won't go away. What is this mystery that doesn't have a name.....
So basically, and in much less dramatic fashion, I have started guitar lessons. I tried to teach myself, but it was quite a disaster, so I got myself a teacher. It has been so much fun. I returned to a community band, so I have my clarinet to practice too. Sometimes I forget how much I love playing music until I get involved in it again.
We moved to Texas four years ago and I would love to tell you that this is my favorite place on Earth, but that would be a giant lie, so I'll refrain. I've gotten more and more used to it and found things I genuinely enjoy about Texas, but the hardest part is when Fall comes. In Houston there is Summer and the part that is not Summer, but since Summer lasts for about 9 months there isn't much else. Houston likes to pretend it has a Fall by putting out pumpkins and artificial leaves that are orange, and yellow, but it hardly comes close to real Fall. So this year in order to avoid the doldrums that happen to me this time I've year, I am going with the very adult, stick my fingers in my ears and shut my eyes. I think it will be easier if I just acknowledge that it isn't happening hear and go with following the leaves again when I am retired. Traveling the East Coast of the US during Fall is gorgeous. It is when I fell in love with Vermont! Who can beat a view like this.....
So in an effort to not lament the impending death of Fall, I am focusing on playing my guitar and playing in the pool. We put in a pool last summer and it has been the greatest addition we have made to the house. We go in it all the time and it should be in use come October, since it is usually about 80 degrees until close to Christmas. I must admit I love the way it looks.
I've gotten back into writing, but nothing of significance and as I read through this entry I am reminded of my need to practice this on a regular basis too!
But truly I am here to confess my new love, the one who will be the destroyer of my free time. He has become my secret obsession. He's like Voldemort and we can not speak his name, but I have come to find if I don't spend time with him each day, I get this nagging feeling that just won't go away. What is this mystery that doesn't have a name.....
So basically, and in much less dramatic fashion, I have started guitar lessons. I tried to teach myself, but it was quite a disaster, so I got myself a teacher. It has been so much fun. I returned to a community band, so I have my clarinet to practice too. Sometimes I forget how much I love playing music until I get involved in it again.
We moved to Texas four years ago and I would love to tell you that this is my favorite place on Earth, but that would be a giant lie, so I'll refrain. I've gotten more and more used to it and found things I genuinely enjoy about Texas, but the hardest part is when Fall comes. In Houston there is Summer and the part that is not Summer, but since Summer lasts for about 9 months there isn't much else. Houston likes to pretend it has a Fall by putting out pumpkins and artificial leaves that are orange, and yellow, but it hardly comes close to real Fall. So this year in order to avoid the doldrums that happen to me this time I've year, I am going with the very adult, stick my fingers in my ears and shut my eyes. I think it will be easier if I just acknowledge that it isn't happening hear and go with following the leaves again when I am retired. Traveling the East Coast of the US during Fall is gorgeous. It is when I fell in love with Vermont! Who can beat a view like this.....
So in an effort to not lament the impending death of Fall, I am focusing on playing my guitar and playing in the pool. We put in a pool last summer and it has been the greatest addition we have made to the house. We go in it all the time and it should be in use come October, since it is usually about 80 degrees until close to Christmas. I must admit I love the way it looks.
I've gotten back into writing, but nothing of significance and as I read through this entry I am reminded of my need to practice this on a regular basis too!
Monday, January 9, 2017
Only in January
I seem to have an affinity for posting in January and then slipping into oblivion for the remaining 11 months. Blogging is like the perpetual epic fail of resolutions. No, I didn't make a resolution to blog. I just decided that all these thoughts I carry in my head should go somewhere and maybe it will take up less space. I'm laughing that I am turning into my mother and talking to my thoughts.
So here I am because 2016 sucked! I mean really sucked! My mother died on January 18, 2016 after battling cancer. It is strange being an only child and having both your parents pass away. I feel lost and found at the same time. I miss my mom incredibly, but I don't miss having to care for her. Getting up at all hours of the night when she would start yelling for you because she was feeling lonely and wanted some company. And at the same time, I miss being able to keep her company -- watching Golden Girls and talking about changes in the world. My mother was so smart and a wonderful person with whom to bounce around ideas. I now have time for the things I want to do. With Noah being 9 almost 10, I have time. I joined the community band. I love it! I forgot how much I loved it. I have taken a bigger interest in knitting. Primarily because it is portable. For some reason, people are less offended when you are knitting as you talk. I have friends who are amazing knitters. I am not one of them, but I enjoy it anyway. So with band and knitting, I am adding in writing. I used to love to write. Again, I have friends who are very skilled at this and I am mediocre, but I still love to do it. I keep assuring myself that I will get better as time goes.
So welcome to 2017! Welcome to me in middle age! Yikes! Welcome to being a little selfish from time to time! Welcome to new explorations!
So here I am because 2016 sucked! I mean really sucked! My mother died on January 18, 2016 after battling cancer. It is strange being an only child and having both your parents pass away. I feel lost and found at the same time. I miss my mom incredibly, but I don't miss having to care for her. Getting up at all hours of the night when she would start yelling for you because she was feeling lonely and wanted some company. And at the same time, I miss being able to keep her company -- watching Golden Girls and talking about changes in the world. My mother was so smart and a wonderful person with whom to bounce around ideas. I now have time for the things I want to do. With Noah being 9 almost 10, I have time. I joined the community band. I love it! I forgot how much I loved it. I have taken a bigger interest in knitting. Primarily because it is portable. For some reason, people are less offended when you are knitting as you talk. I have friends who are amazing knitters. I am not one of them, but I enjoy it anyway. So with band and knitting, I am adding in writing. I used to love to write. Again, I have friends who are very skilled at this and I am mediocre, but I still love to do it. I keep assuring myself that I will get better as time goes.
So welcome to 2017! Welcome to me in middle age! Yikes! Welcome to being a little selfish from time to time! Welcome to new explorations!
Saturday, January 3, 2015
Realizations
Have you ever spoken to someone about their problem or issue, trying to be a good listener and discovered in your conversation that it has turned around for you and become less about them and more about a seed idea about you? I was talking with my husband this evening about how he was feeling about his job and in the process discovered that his job makes me angry. My husband is in sales and is honestly never around. I go to bed at 2 or 3 in the morning because it is the only time that I have to myself since I spend every moment taking care of everyone by myself. Right now he is home, but this is a rarity for us. He is usually at work. Unfortunately, this is the price that has to be paid so that he can do the job he enjoys and I would not want anyone telling me I couldn't teach because it causes my spouse to have to work a little harder. Until we had this conversation, I didn't realize how alone I was feeling. Now what do about it remains a whole other question. So for the moment I will sally forth and enjoy my life, but I did find the realization fascinating.
Memories
During this Christmas break, my husband's biological mother committed suicide and it gave me pause to think about death and how it impacts everyone. Unfortunately death by suicide creates a set of wounds that do not always heal. There are so many questions and feeling of how you could have done something more to help them, when in truth she suffered from depression and in the end that was her cause of death. But it also helped me to see the gift that is given to us when someone passes. Initially, you are lost and their is a feeling that something is missing, but over time it is filtered through a set of memories. One of the greatest parts of these memories is that often times the good ones remains.
I think about my father. He passed away when I was 21 and it was unexpected and devastating. He had a sudden heart attack and was no longer with us. But the gifts my father gave me live on in my memories. I remember the last time we met for dinner and my father told me how proud he was of me. I think of him each time I go to the movies and how much fun we had together. I still love to gamble like we did at the horse races when I was little. My father taught me how to drink alcohol, so I am not someone living with alcoholic behaviors. I am grateful for these memories. I still love eating breakfast in the park and listening to nature. These are the gifts of life that live long after the person has gone. I love that over time the petty little things that I did not enjoy about my father are gone and buried, but what lives are the joyful, loving memories. Even now if all is quiet I can still hear his voice and remember how it felt to hug him.
I think about my father. He passed away when I was 21 and it was unexpected and devastating. He had a sudden heart attack and was no longer with us. But the gifts my father gave me live on in my memories. I remember the last time we met for dinner and my father told me how proud he was of me. I think of him each time I go to the movies and how much fun we had together. I still love to gamble like we did at the horse races when I was little. My father taught me how to drink alcohol, so I am not someone living with alcoholic behaviors. I am grateful for these memories. I still love eating breakfast in the park and listening to nature. These are the gifts of life that live long after the person has gone. I love that over time the petty little things that I did not enjoy about my father are gone and buried, but what lives are the joyful, loving memories. Even now if all is quiet I can still hear his voice and remember how it felt to hug him.
Thursday, January 1, 2015
Random Thought
Today I sat on the couch looking at Noah's foot and found myself fascinated by his ability to move his toes. I know this sounds strange, but when he was in the NICU I would sit and stare at him - not much else you can do when they are all wired up. I would notice how he could not move his toes. He could move is fingers, but not his toes. I always wondered if this was how babies worked and since I only have one I just have to go with whatever he does as the way it is. So now at 7 he can move his toes all by themselves. I am still fascinated by this. True his feet aren't as little as they once were, but still endlessly interesting. And sadly a little stinky :)
Monday, February 10, 2014
A Year Already
So am I the only one who finds it hysterical that I wrote one post last year and that was it? Seriously, I am a dork! The funny part is I like writing although I do not consider myself particularly talented at it. This year (like every year) I am hoping to write more. The difference this time is that we have moved and most of the people I would run to share my ideas with did not move with me, so I figure blogging will have to be my new brain-dumping lifeline. The truth is I have way to many thoughts and have to find an outlet for them or I start walking around my house talking to myself. (Not that I don't do that anyway, but still)
So here is wishing everyone a Happy New Year (just a little late) and hopefully more thoughts from me.
So here is wishing everyone a Happy New Year (just a little late) and hopefully more thoughts from me.
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
2013
I came on to begin writing about the new year and noticed that I haven't blogged since 2010. I tried to remember why and then it dawned on my. I went back to teaching and all other aspects of my life went on hiatus. So here I am in 2013 decided to try to take a little bit of fun back.
I did what most people due on December 31st of any year and thought about what I would like to do differently. The list is extensive - take a picture everyday (this is my Project 365), and write in my blog each day, and so on. Of course I always included the standard, keep my house cleaner, eat better, exercise, lose weight, and so on. So after I was done rolling on the floor laughing at the stupidity of my own ideas, I thought what do I really hope to accomplish.
1- Moving to Texas without throwing myself in a well first. Packing and moving even with six months is daunting. I need to find a job and get everything set for our new house. All this while helping my mom with her dialysis and we have the prospect that Stephen might need to move earlier than the rest of us. Truth is that it would be a great opportunity for him, so I am hopeful the new store doesn't open until end of July. Along with this is getting the condo ready to rent. Today I decided to write a list of everything we need to get done between now and July 1. Wow what a list.
I had this idea there would be a list, but truth is there is really just the one goal and whole lot in it. Don't know where the taking fun back will be, but we will work on it. We had "Yes Day!" yesterday and it was definitely a great way to end the last year.
So to all a very happy new year to you and may all your dreams come true.
I did what most people due on December 31st of any year and thought about what I would like to do differently. The list is extensive - take a picture everyday (this is my Project 365), and write in my blog each day, and so on. Of course I always included the standard, keep my house cleaner, eat better, exercise, lose weight, and so on. So after I was done rolling on the floor laughing at the stupidity of my own ideas, I thought what do I really hope to accomplish.
1- Moving to Texas without throwing myself in a well first. Packing and moving even with six months is daunting. I need to find a job and get everything set for our new house. All this while helping my mom with her dialysis and we have the prospect that Stephen might need to move earlier than the rest of us. Truth is that it would be a great opportunity for him, so I am hopeful the new store doesn't open until end of July. Along with this is getting the condo ready to rent. Today I decided to write a list of everything we need to get done between now and July 1. Wow what a list.
I had this idea there would be a list, but truth is there is really just the one goal and whole lot in it. Don't know where the taking fun back will be, but we will work on it. We had "Yes Day!" yesterday and it was definitely a great way to end the last year.
So to all a very happy new year to you and may all your dreams come true.
Friday, December 31, 2010
Happy New Year
Just a few hours now before the new year begins. I have talked with friends who are hoping for a year of adventure and change, but for us it should be a year of preparation. This is the year we get the bills paid off and the saving account building. Our plan is to move in 2012, so this is the year of getting things ready. Going through boxes and being sure of what we really want to take. Moving across the country is not cheap and you just want to be sure of everything that you take.
The current plan, baring any major changes, is to move to Las Vegas, NV in June of 2012. I used to live there and loved it! There is nothing as wonderful as a bright beautiful sun each morning. I loved where I was teaching and the place I was living. The people I met in Vegas were wonderful and I know we will meet new fabulous people when we get there. In September 2012, Noah will start Kindergarten, so we are getting prepared for him to be in school full time.
I laugh at the number of things I think about. The truth is that I am a consummate planner and think of all the possibilities, so I have potential solutions. Of course with all this planning is the possibility that life could throw us the curve ball and everything could change. I am open to it all, but I must admit I am super excited about going to Vegas.
As we end 2010, I hope that everyone has a wonderful and healthy New Year!
The current plan, baring any major changes, is to move to Las Vegas, NV in June of 2012. I used to live there and loved it! There is nothing as wonderful as a bright beautiful sun each morning. I loved where I was teaching and the place I was living. The people I met in Vegas were wonderful and I know we will meet new fabulous people when we get there. In September 2012, Noah will start Kindergarten, so we are getting prepared for him to be in school full time.
I laugh at the number of things I think about. The truth is that I am a consummate planner and think of all the possibilities, so I have potential solutions. Of course with all this planning is the possibility that life could throw us the curve ball and everything could change. I am open to it all, but I must admit I am super excited about going to Vegas.
As we end 2010, I hope that everyone has a wonderful and healthy New Year!
Saturday, December 25, 2010
My Christmas Miracle
This is I spent time thinking of Christmas Miracles. I started wondering about mine. Would there be one and was their ever one in the past. Truthfully, I never looked and if they came it was not with a loud thunderous announcement. "I AM YOUR MIRACLE!" Consequently, it was a new of consciousness and one that bade some time to reflect upon. And then Noah coughed.....
Although most people who know us are aware, for those that don't. Noah has cold induced asthma. If he gets a cold then we are usually hospital bound or at least very attached to our nebulizer, so we pulled ourselves up and got ready for the onslaughter of our own barely breathing just to listen and see what was going on. When Noah was one we almost lost him when his lungs closed and wouldn't allow any air in and that has remained our defining moment. So, with the neb at the ready and the hospital on speed dial we were ready, but this year was different....
It came without fanfare
or emergency lights.
It came without wheezing
and tough fitful nights.
He just coughed
and wiped his nose on his sleeve
and went about playing with the greatest of easy.
So I sat looking down
at my greatest joy
A wonder he is
my miracle boy
And so I wish you all
the best Christmas yet
One that brings happiness
and love without fret.
So that is my Christmas miracle today. My son sleeping with sugar plums dancing in his head.
I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas and a magical New Year.
Although most people who know us are aware, for those that don't. Noah has cold induced asthma. If he gets a cold then we are usually hospital bound or at least very attached to our nebulizer, so we pulled ourselves up and got ready for the onslaughter of our own barely breathing just to listen and see what was going on. When Noah was one we almost lost him when his lungs closed and wouldn't allow any air in and that has remained our defining moment. So, with the neb at the ready and the hospital on speed dial we were ready, but this year was different....
It came without fanfare
or emergency lights.
It came without wheezing
and tough fitful nights.
He just coughed
and wiped his nose on his sleeve
and went about playing with the greatest of easy.
So I sat looking down
at my greatest joy
A wonder he is
my miracle boy
And so I wish you all
the best Christmas yet
One that brings happiness
and love without fret.
So that is my Christmas miracle today. My son sleeping with sugar plums dancing in his head.
I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas and a magical New Year.
Monday, August 30, 2010
Why I haven't blog
The question I ask myself on a daily basis....why don't you blog?. Firstly, I do love to blog, and am not without a plethora of ideas, but somehow I have trouble blogging without including pictures and I am having a terrible time getting to my photos and setting them up. That is my excuse and I am sticking to it. :P
I have successfully completed my return to work and honestly I am enjoying being back. I really thought that Noah's transition into school would not bother me and I would look forward to it, but then I also thought he would be excited about it and not having the anxiety he is currently showing. So here we are, Mommy and son, struggling with the new changes. He assures me he doesn't want to go to school and I am trying to put on my best excited face about how much he will enjoy it. Ahhh parenthood, I am not sure I signed up for this part. I have a feeling I will be saying that a lot.
I have successfully completed my return to work and honestly I am enjoying being back. I really thought that Noah's transition into school would not bother me and I would look forward to it, but then I also thought he would be excited about it and not having the anxiety he is currently showing. So here we are, Mommy and son, struggling with the new changes. He assures me he doesn't want to go to school and I am trying to put on my best excited face about how much he will enjoy it. Ahhh parenthood, I am not sure I signed up for this part. I have a feeling I will be saying that a lot.
Friday, June 11, 2010
A Fabulous Birthday Present
Today, some dear friends and I celebrated my birthday again, because why only do it once. It was an amazing day. We went to a place called SpaWorld. It was brilliant. We spent the day in a fabulous heated pool with different jets to massage different parts of your body. We also went to a number of saunas and sweated before returning to the pool.
During our visit, I decided in indulge in two different spa treatments. The first was a body scrub. Let me tell you there is no part of my body that has dead skin on it anymore. Trust me not an inch. It felt soooo good and I was amazed at how soft my skin was when it was over. Next time I am going to add in the massage with it. The second treatment was a 30 minute foot massage. It was so relaxing I almost fell asleep. Honestly, the place just lends itself to a nice relaxing day. It was quiet, and comfortable. The place was a cozy kind of warm and I enjoyed reading and sleeping as well.
Then of course there was lunch. We ate Bi Bim Bop. One of my favorite dishes in the world. I could eat it all the time. It is a Korean rice dish served in a hot stone bowl. They load it with vegetables and an egg. So good...most Korean restaurants serve a lovely miso soup and several sides that includes kimchi (another fav) and this time dried squid. I was in heaven.
The day also had a certain sense of empowerment for me. I know this sounds quirky, but I am not one of those people that looks in the mirror and says "Wow! What a goddess." In this place you were naked when you went to the pool and for the scrub. I put on my best brave face and was convinced that I would die from humiliation, but was determined to have fun. It wasn't like that at all. I felt embarrassed for about a minute and it just faded away. Everyone else was there too and it just didn't seem to matter and I felt that maybe my feeling about my body weren't really that big a deal. I came home delightfully happy and relaxed. Truly a wonderful day and a fantastic birthday present.
I must say that I couldn't have had this day without Stephen agreeing to be Noah's solo caretaker for the day. They had a wonderful time just Daddy and son. Big hugs to my favorite boys for letting me have a me day.
I now I am ready for sleep....
During our visit, I decided in indulge in two different spa treatments. The first was a body scrub. Let me tell you there is no part of my body that has dead skin on it anymore. Trust me not an inch. It felt soooo good and I was amazed at how soft my skin was when it was over. Next time I am going to add in the massage with it. The second treatment was a 30 minute foot massage. It was so relaxing I almost fell asleep. Honestly, the place just lends itself to a nice relaxing day. It was quiet, and comfortable. The place was a cozy kind of warm and I enjoyed reading and sleeping as well.
Then of course there was lunch. We ate Bi Bim Bop. One of my favorite dishes in the world. I could eat it all the time. It is a Korean rice dish served in a hot stone bowl. They load it with vegetables and an egg. So good...most Korean restaurants serve a lovely miso soup and several sides that includes kimchi (another fav) and this time dried squid. I was in heaven.
The day also had a certain sense of empowerment for me. I know this sounds quirky, but I am not one of those people that looks in the mirror and says "Wow! What a goddess." In this place you were naked when you went to the pool and for the scrub. I put on my best brave face and was convinced that I would die from humiliation, but was determined to have fun. It wasn't like that at all. I felt embarrassed for about a minute and it just faded away. Everyone else was there too and it just didn't seem to matter and I felt that maybe my feeling about my body weren't really that big a deal. I came home delightfully happy and relaxed. Truly a wonderful day and a fantastic birthday present.
I must say that I couldn't have had this day without Stephen agreeing to be Noah's solo caretaker for the day. They had a wonderful time just Daddy and son. Big hugs to my favorite boys for letting me have a me day.
I now I am ready for sleep....
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Absolutely Nothing
It is kind of shocking when you realize that you had an entire day and nothing happened. Okay, Noah made new concoctions in his smoothies with a little sausage and pepper, then spiced up the lemonade with some salt and pepper, but experimental cooking has become his new norm. Not even the meals were exciting with cheeseburgers and salad for dinner. So Wednesday as the hump day surely should lead to some excitement tomorrow. Right?
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Happy Birthday!
Today is my 39th birthday. Honestly, it was a wonderful day. We just stayed home and enjoyed being together. It is very rare to have a full day with just the three of us, but we managed it and it was wonderful. I made crepes for breakfast. The ones with nutella and fruit in them. Yummy! This time even Noah got into the act.
For a long time Noah only ate the fruit. Overall, that is a good thing, but I was pleased he started to eat the crepes too. This birthday marked some great presents and much needed ones too. I needed a new computer. My Dell had hit the end of the road. Everytime you got on the internet the mouse would jump as you would type. Very annoying and Noah managed to remove several keys and which made it difficult to type. So I ventured into the world of Apple and got a Macbook. So far I am very pleased and enjoying using the iPhoto software to create books. Currently, I am making an ABC book for Noah. I should be ready to send it off to get it published in the next several weeks.
I also got a Kindle. This was not a need, but purely a want and one that I love. I have several books on it already and love being able to pop out a book and ready in a pinch. I even got a skin for it that is dark blue and black. The goth chick in me is thrilled. :)
The last present was a complete impulse buy verses the others that I had planned and researched for several months. That is a Healthmaster blender. Basically if you have a Vitamixer or a BlendTec then this is along the same lines. Noah has become enchanted with smoothies which he refers to as "recipes" and I enjoy making them. We drink them almost everyday and I am constantly impressed with all the things you can put in a smoothie and it still tastes fantastic. I love it.
All-in-all a great day and I am a little sad it is ending, but life must resume. :P
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Angels in the World
Tonight I took my mother to Urgent care to see about a possible blood clot. She is doing fine at the moment and will get further tests tomorrow. While we were getting her prescription, there was a 14 year old girl who had recently had a heart valve transplant. She collapsed and became unresponsive. He father was screaming and crying for someone to help her. A nurse came immediately and within a minute there was a group of people around her getting her stabilized and calming her father. At the point we had finished retrieving our prescription she was breathing and able to open her eyes. By the time we left the parking lot the ambulance had arrived and they were placing her inside.
These are moments when I am awestruck by people in the health care field. They are truly amazing. I know everything they have done for my little one and I wanted so much to hug that father and tell him I knew how he felt and that one day he too would take his angel home, just like we did. If there are angels in the world, I think most of them must be in the health care field. Tonight as I get ready to sleep in my bed at home I am thinking of that family and sending them my love and best wishes for a speedy recovery.
These are moments when I am awestruck by people in the health care field. They are truly amazing. I know everything they have done for my little one and I wanted so much to hug that father and tell him I knew how he felt and that one day he too would take his angel home, just like we did. If there are angels in the world, I think most of them must be in the health care field. Tonight as I get ready to sleep in my bed at home I am thinking of that family and sending them my love and best wishes for a speedy recovery.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Halloween
I just glanced at my blog and was astonished to see how long it has been since I've posted. With twitter and facebook out and about, it is hard to keep up with a blog. Sometimes it is difficult to figure out which of the excited things in your life is worth writing about. :)
So here we are and it is Halloween. I was laughing at all of the places we've been to and things we've seen over the past several months and realize that I am going to have to do a flashback blog about what has transpired over the past several months, but for today we will focus on Halloween. To be honest, Halloween is my all time least favorite holiday. I could easily live without it, but once you have a kiddo it becomes more of a priority. Last year, we went to the Leesburg Parade, but this year, since we are now in Fairfax, we needed a new plan. Hence we have, Mall-oween. Basically, you do your trick or treating in the Fair Oaks mall. The nice part is that you are not worried about spiked candy or unfriendly neighbors, the downer is the sheer number of people. It looked like the day after Thanksgiving. Although, Stephen swears there were more people than that. Noah loved it and by the 3rd store and gotten into this say, "Trick or treat," smile and someone will give you candy. Personally, I liked the vendor coupons that came with his candy. It was nice.
Noah decided to be a fireman this year and we introduced him to painting pumpkins. He is now in love with painting which is good because he will be making several Christmas presents this year and it is better when he is excited about them. I must say that Halloween was very fun, but I am still glad it is over.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Friends and Fireworks
20 years later and here we are. I attended my 20 year high school reunion last week and it was very fun. Honestly, it was great to get in touch with people I haven't seen for a while. Several old friends couldn't make it which was a bummer, but we still had fun. The person next to me is Lee Ann and she and I have been friends since 8th grade. I only get to see about every other year and I loved being able to spend time with her.
For the 4th we drove down to Wakefield, George Washington's Birthplace and had a picnic. We used to do this all the time when I was a kid. Noah enjoyed his learning about toasted marshmallows. This place was perfect. It is right next to the Potomac River and had some wonderful woods to explore. It was also incredibly clean. Can't beat that!
We took Noah on a hike through the woods and he decided that a good hike needs a big stick to cart around. But after awhile...
Noah decided that riding on Daddy's back is a must better way to hike. But did you know....
you ride on Daddy's shoulders too. These are the great parts of getting older. I miss the infant, but toddler to preschooler is even better.We have also begun potty training and although I know it is common to take a picture of your child and their first poop in the potty. I decided that is there is a limit to my wanting to capture every moment of Noah's childhood. I do have to say though that potty training is much easier than I had initially feared. Hopefully, transitioning from pull-ups to underwear will go as smoothly.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Turning 2 and deja vu
My munchkin is 2. He had a wonderful birthday. We began celebrating on Saturday with a day of presents and a fun chicken and dumplings dinner. Noah LOVES chicken. We even got him a birthday cake. This year he got a big wheel that looks like a motorcycle, a pirate ship, a Little People airplane, and a kitchen. He loved all of them. We ended up opening them over the course of the day which made for the perfect amount of excitement without too much overwhelmingness.
On Noah's actual birthday, March 3oth we went to the National Zoo. Noah thought this place was amazing and loved seeing all the animals. He ran through a large part of the zoo. His favorite animals were the pandas, and the birds. He really wanted to see Melman, but all the giraffes were sent to FL while the zoo is creating their new Elephant habitat. It was so much fun to spend the day, just the three of us. It happens so rarely these days.
Noah thought the birds were amazing.
Noah and Mommy with the seals. It is very rare to get a photo of Noah and myself. I thought this one wasn't too bad.
My boys....they are the best in the world!
We were very excited to see the new gorilla. Mommy gorilla even stopped to allow photos to be taken.
Noah liked to snuggle up to the Panda statue.On Saturday, we got together with several of Noah's friends at the park and ate cupcakes. Sadly, the weather wasn't the best - very windy. Noah enjoyed playing in the park especially on their wooden fire engine. I will have to post some follow up photos. I haven't gotten them downloaded yet.
During all this Noah picked up a runny nose and after two weeks ended up in the hospital again. Luckily this time did not require trips in a helicopter and incubation. So we learned the joys of entertaining a two year old that is strapped to an oxygen pump and an IV drip. Thankfully, he is home now and back to his same old self. Now we need to return to potty training, but need to find time at home to do it.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Discoveries
Noah is growing so fast. I look at little babies and realized mine is no longer a baby, but moving quickly into kiddom. For the last month, Noah has been on an endless search and discover mission.
We didn't think it would ever happen, but we finally got snow. Noah thought this was brilliant.
He started his snow journey by helping our neighbor Kurt clean off his car. I am sure Kurt was concerned about the hood of his car, so Noah swept off the lingering snow. Next he decided to get started early with helping his father shovel snow. Luckily they make shovels in his size.
Although this was Noah's second Valentine's, I am pretty sure he doesn't really remember the first. This year I stole an idea from "Jon and Kate plus 8" and gave Noah a Valentine's backpack that had some toys and books and a candy heart inside. Noah walked around with his backpack on and was sure this meant we were going somewhere.
As the weather finally got warmer, Noah found out the sunroof in Mommy's car opens up and you can climb out it, if someone is there to help you. This was a good 1/2 hour of fun entertainment and he even abandoned "driving" the car.
While over at a friend's house, Noah also found out the if you have a large dog crate, a new playground is born.
As many of you know, my son is a guitar hero. We got him a guitar for Christmas and life was good until we went to Costco and discovered the Fender. We did not buy him the Fender, but it was fun to play with.
Noah got a hold of the camera that is in my purse and took his own photograph.
Lastly, I love it when my "boys" take a nap together and it doesn't happen very often.
Just like many of my friends, the discovery of Facebook and Twitter has pushed my blog to the back burner. The other factor is the sheer number of photos I take and sorting through them. Take heed I will be writing more often and still posting my pictures. Who knows what is to come....
We didn't think it would ever happen, but we finally got snow. Noah thought this was brilliant.
He started his snow journey by helping our neighbor Kurt clean off his car. I am sure Kurt was concerned about the hood of his car, so Noah swept off the lingering snow. Next he decided to get started early with helping his father shovel snow. Luckily they make shovels in his size.
Although this was Noah's second Valentine's, I am pretty sure he doesn't really remember the first. This year I stole an idea from "Jon and Kate plus 8" and gave Noah a Valentine's backpack that had some toys and books and a candy heart inside. Noah walked around with his backpack on and was sure this meant we were going somewhere.
As the weather finally got warmer, Noah found out the sunroof in Mommy's car opens up and you can climb out it, if someone is there to help you. This was a good 1/2 hour of fun entertainment and he even abandoned "driving" the car.
While over at a friend's house, Noah also found out the if you have a large dog crate, a new playground is born.
As many of you know, my son is a guitar hero. We got him a guitar for Christmas and life was good until we went to Costco and discovered the Fender. We did not buy him the Fender, but it was fun to play with.
Noah got a hold of the camera that is in my purse and took his own photograph.
Lastly, I love it when my "boys" take a nap together and it doesn't happen very often.
Just like many of my friends, the discovery of Facebook and Twitter has pushed my blog to the back burner. The other factor is the sheer number of photos I take and sorting through them. Take heed I will be writing more often and still posting my pictures. Who knows what is to come....
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
25 Random Things
A friend tagged me with this and I thought it was fun, so I'm adding it as a blog entry. Truth is I didn't think I had 25 things to share, but low and behold.
1. I am crafty---cross-stitching, quilting, knitting, scrapbooking, (soon to crochet).
2. I am a die hard Redskins fan...even when they are losing. I have clothes and everything.
3. I am very opinionated about Politics/Religion/Spirituality...I just don't share it with many people.
4. My dad died when I was 21 and I miss him very much. My son has his eyes.
5. I love all things sweet, but I hold a special place for COTTON CANDY!
6. Becoming a teacher was one of the best decisions of my life. Teaching and I are well suited and I enjoyed it everyday.
7. My first hero was my grandfather. When we would sit together and read the comics he could read what Woodstock said in "Peanuts." I thought it was amazing and he told me it was the special line in his glasses.
8. I remember the day I learned to read. It was Richard Scarry's Biggest Word Book Ever.
9. I used to live in Las Vegas, NV. I loved it there.
10. I have never loved anything the way I love my son.
11. My husband is a beautiful man and most days I'm not sure why he picked me, but yeah me.
12. I can sign although not as well as I used to.
13. I have more craft projects then I have years left to live.
14. I am secretly a goth chick who digs vampires.
15. I have played the clarinet for 26 years.
16. I am an oil painter, but not a terribly good one. My mother is much better.
17. One of my favorite presents was the year, my husband agreed to be my gopher and I got to sit all day and cross-stitch while watching the Lord of the Rings Trilogy. Needless to say that was before Noah.
18. I spent my 30th birthday at the zoo.
19. When I was able to bring my son home from the hospital, he weighted 4lbs 7oz. I held him for 3 days straight because I was afraid he wouldn't know who I was.
20. I graduated from Longwood University and met two of my best friends there.
21. When I was 2, I beat up the little boy next door for taking my big wheel.
22. I play with the Loudoun Symphonic Winds.
23. One of my favorite things to do is get up early in the morning, grab McDonald's and go have breakfast in the park. My dad and I used to do it all the time.
24. I love photography and wish I were a better photographer.
25. My idea of heaven is an endless array of great food, books to read everywhere, craft projects to do and nothing but time.
1. I am crafty---cross-stitching, quilting, knitting, scrapbooking, (soon to crochet).
2. I am a die hard Redskins fan...even when they are losing. I have clothes and everything.
3. I am very opinionated about Politics/Religion/Spirituality...I just don't share it with many people.
4. My dad died when I was 21 and I miss him very much. My son has his eyes.
5. I love all things sweet, but I hold a special place for COTTON CANDY!
6. Becoming a teacher was one of the best decisions of my life. Teaching and I are well suited and I enjoyed it everyday.
7. My first hero was my grandfather. When we would sit together and read the comics he could read what Woodstock said in "Peanuts." I thought it was amazing and he told me it was the special line in his glasses.
8. I remember the day I learned to read. It was Richard Scarry's Biggest Word Book Ever.
9. I used to live in Las Vegas, NV. I loved it there.
10. I have never loved anything the way I love my son.
11. My husband is a beautiful man and most days I'm not sure why he picked me, but yeah me.
12. I can sign although not as well as I used to.
13. I have more craft projects then I have years left to live.
14. I am secretly a goth chick who digs vampires.
15. I have played the clarinet for 26 years.
16. I am an oil painter, but not a terribly good one. My mother is much better.
17. One of my favorite presents was the year, my husband agreed to be my gopher and I got to sit all day and cross-stitch while watching the Lord of the Rings Trilogy. Needless to say that was before Noah.
18. I spent my 30th birthday at the zoo.
19. When I was able to bring my son home from the hospital, he weighted 4lbs 7oz. I held him for 3 days straight because I was afraid he wouldn't know who I was.
20. I graduated from Longwood University and met two of my best friends there.
21. When I was 2, I beat up the little boy next door for taking my big wheel.
22. I play with the Loudoun Symphonic Winds.
23. One of my favorite things to do is get up early in the morning, grab McDonald's and go have breakfast in the park. My dad and I used to do it all the time.
24. I love photography and wish I were a better photographer.
25. My idea of heaven is an endless array of great food, books to read everywhere, craft projects to do and nothing but time.
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