Once again, there were so many times I wanted to hop on a type up a quick blog post. I almost did it after baking gingerbread cookies with Miriam. I almost did it on Christmas eve after Bill and I had set out presents and snapped pictures. I was going to brag - hey look, Santa has already been here!
But time goes plenty fast and before you know it... It is New Years eve! And I'm making cookies and watching a movie! (Our friends got sick on us)
I've got more material, back in my brain, but it will just have to wait until 2011!
Happy New Year to you! Please don't text me at 3am. Thanks :)
Friday, December 31, 2010
Family Home Evening Take One
So the other day I was perusing a friends blog, when I came to the realization that we haven't been doing our best with spending time to teach Miriam about God.
She knows lots of church songs, from the CD a friend of mine gave her. And music is totally the way to that girls heart. You want her to learn/do/try something - make up some music to it. I got to wash her hair the other day with NO WHINING WHATSOEVER by doing that very thing. But anyway...
I was catching up on a friends blog and she posted about some art her preschooler did in which the teachers had asked each child "I am special because..." and he had answered "God made me." (awww. right? And you know who you are now too, doncha?) And I thought to myself - "Yeap you are letting this golden opportunity pass you by."
We had discussed having family home evening's before. In fact, we set a goal about three months ago to have family home evening. It got challenging because my schedule is a little interesting with WW in the evening and really, we've just never been very good at it. So this week we decided to have Family Home Evening on Thursday.
Earlier in the week, Bill and I decided to use the Nursery Manual.
We started with Lesson One, I am a Child of God. We said a prayer, sang I am a Child of God a few times. We looked at pictures of our family members and talked about how we are children of God. We were going to stick them on a paper that said I am a child of God, but Miriam really didn't want to do that. She wanted to hold the pictures of Grandma and Grandpa. It was very cute. Then we colored a picture. That's it - the end. Keeping a 3 year old engaged = not easy. But we did one. Now we just have to keep going.
Come by here on Thursdays and you better be prepared to spend half an hour talking (learning, singing, dancing, coloring) about God.
She knows lots of church songs, from the CD a friend of mine gave her. And music is totally the way to that girls heart. You want her to learn/do/try something - make up some music to it. I got to wash her hair the other day with NO WHINING WHATSOEVER by doing that very thing. But anyway...
I was catching up on a friends blog and she posted about some art her preschooler did in which the teachers had asked each child "I am special because..." and he had answered "God made me." (awww. right? And you know who you are now too, doncha?) And I thought to myself - "Yeap you are letting this golden opportunity pass you by."
We had discussed having family home evening's before. In fact, we set a goal about three months ago to have family home evening. It got challenging because my schedule is a little interesting with WW in the evening and really, we've just never been very good at it. So this week we decided to have Family Home Evening on Thursday.
Earlier in the week, Bill and I decided to use the Nursery Manual.
We started with Lesson One, I am a Child of God. We said a prayer, sang I am a Child of God a few times. We looked at pictures of our family members and talked about how we are children of God. We were going to stick them on a paper that said I am a child of God, but Miriam really didn't want to do that. She wanted to hold the pictures of Grandma and Grandpa. It was very cute. Then we colored a picture. That's it - the end. Keeping a 3 year old engaged = not easy. But we did one. Now we just have to keep going.
Come by here on Thursdays and you better be prepared to spend half an hour talking (learning, singing, dancing, coloring) about God.
My decade in review - oh yeah...
I just realized today that I never finished my decade in review I started in January of this year. It was the most fun reviewing 2000-2005 anyway seeing as they are farther away. But I thought I might highlight a few things from the last 5 years, just for kicks.
2006
Job hunt. Ugh, yuck. Get a position as secretary in the EWU Presidents office. Gain 10 pounds while adjusting to working full time
We take a job as apartment managers and move across Cheney. In the fall I return to school with the idea to take some classes to prepare me to enter a masters program. I do both my job and classes for about 2 weeks.
2007
Classes, back to work in EWU Chemistry office with my favorite boss and friend ever (Susi), hang out lots with Joe and Brenda.
March -hello! we're pregnant!
June - It's a girl!
July/August - we live in Seattle while Bill completes an internship in toxicology, we change apartments in Cheney
September (right before classes start I might add) preterm labor-ugh! Most of the details from this point on can be found at the beginning of this blog!
November - Miriam is born!
2008
We adjust to parenthood and enjoy our daughter and our families. Bill finishes his degree program in March and by May is able to work as a driver for a company in Spokane (thank goodness!)
We feel pretty strongly after an interview in July that we are probably going to get offered a job and move to GA. Not exactly exciting (GA that is), but we need a job.
After living with a family friend for 6 weeks we finally leave for GA on the 14th of October. The same day our niece was born.
We learn that Bill's mother has osteosarcoma.
2009
We live with some homesickness and make some new friends.
I still take off by March to visit my Dad for his big 5-0
(insert first apartment burglary here)
In June we both go back to the PNW for a family visit.
(insert second apartment burglary here. Pattern?)
Back in April we began looking for houses and NOW we step up the process in earnest.
In September we close on the house and begin the process of moving out of our apartment!
2010
Bill leaves in late January for Afghanistan.
I join Golds Gym.
Bill works his butt off in Afghanistan
I visit my Mom.
We both go back to PNW in the summer. Bills mom is having a hard time after 5 or more surgeries and a recurring infection. We have good timing. We get there in time for an emergency room visit. Just for the record, since that time she is doing better.
I have a 10 year high school reunion!
Bill comes home for good!
We take off for PNW again! Afterwards Miri and I ride the train to ND to see my great-grandmother for her 95th birthday.
Happy Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Merry Christmas!
And here we are.
2006
Job hunt. Ugh, yuck. Get a position as secretary in the EWU Presidents office. Gain 10 pounds while adjusting to working full time
We take a job as apartment managers and move across Cheney. In the fall I return to school with the idea to take some classes to prepare me to enter a masters program. I do both my job and classes for about 2 weeks.
2007
Classes, back to work in EWU Chemistry office with my favorite boss and friend ever (Susi), hang out lots with Joe and Brenda.
March -hello! we're pregnant!
June - It's a girl!
July/August - we live in Seattle while Bill completes an internship in toxicology, we change apartments in Cheney
September (right before classes start I might add) preterm labor-ugh! Most of the details from this point on can be found at the beginning of this blog!
November - Miriam is born!
2008
We adjust to parenthood and enjoy our daughter and our families. Bill finishes his degree program in March and by May is able to work as a driver for a company in Spokane (thank goodness!)
We feel pretty strongly after an interview in July that we are probably going to get offered a job and move to GA. Not exactly exciting (GA that is), but we need a job.
After living with a family friend for 6 weeks we finally leave for GA on the 14th of October. The same day our niece was born.
We learn that Bill's mother has osteosarcoma.
2009
We live with some homesickness and make some new friends.
I still take off by March to visit my Dad for his big 5-0
(insert first apartment burglary here)
In June we both go back to the PNW for a family visit.
(insert second apartment burglary here. Pattern?)
Back in April we began looking for houses and NOW we step up the process in earnest.
In September we close on the house and begin the process of moving out of our apartment!
2010
Bill leaves in late January for Afghanistan.
I join Golds Gym.
Bill works his butt off in Afghanistan
I visit my Mom.
We both go back to PNW in the summer. Bills mom is having a hard time after 5 or more surgeries and a recurring infection. We have good timing. We get there in time for an emergency room visit. Just for the record, since that time she is doing better.
I have a 10 year high school reunion!
Bill comes home for good!
We take off for PNW again! Afterwards Miri and I ride the train to ND to see my great-grandmother for her 95th birthday.
Happy Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Merry Christmas!
And here we are.
Friday, December 24, 2010
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Merry Christmas cards!
Merry Christmas!
Excuse me while I go chant my mantra for the next 24 hours: I'm not getting sick, I'm not getting sick and sucking down airborne a few times a day.
I'm very sick of that stuff.
Still very much looking forward to the next few days!
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Baking....and reading
Funny thing, I was going to post for the last two weeks about POINTS PLUS, POINTS PLUS! It's finally here! I can TELL you what it is called! We can talk about how it works! I can tell you I've lost a few more pounds on it! . . .
. . .
But that is it really. Besides, I want to talk about FOOD. Yummy cookies and cakes and holiday goodies. The kind that make you gain weight. In the last couple days my desire to bake has gotten stronger. I haven't gotten that far though, because I am still trying to get out my Christmas cards (that arrived Tuesday), keep my house clean, fold laundry and feed everyone. I'm so tired of dealing with the papers and dirty stuff on my kitchen counters I can't bring myself to dirty it up when it's clean. (Plus something in there about being stuck at home and potty training and maybe a little PMS that has meant I am a MONSTER)
In case I haven't introduced you before - If you like a fairly clean mystery story plus lots of baking - may I introduce you to Joanne Fluke. She is the author of some 13 (or more?) mysteries entitled things like Apple Turnover murder, Fudge Cupcake murder etc. I like them. There stories are fun (occasionally predictable, but still enjoyable). I enjoy the characters. And I love her recipes. Okay, so I did NOT like Cottage Cheese pancakes. But there are other REALLY YUMMY recipes.
I've made things like...
Chippers (cookies made with crushed up potato chips. I'm not kidding. And I promise, they are SO GOOD.)
Orange Cake (with mini chocolate chips and chocolate fudge frosting. Oh yeah.)
Mango Bread. Yum.
Minty Melts. (another cookie)
Then I fell off the baking bandwagon in favor of canning. And then I burnt out. But I have other yummy stuff to try like... Minnesota Peach Cobbler....Chocolate Marshmallow cookie bars... Chocolate Highlander bars...Triplet Chiplet cookies. See a pattern anyone?
You don't even have to start with the first book. You'll pick up on the storyline quick enough. So I'd recommend...Peach Cobbler murder or Key Lime Pie murder.
OH and I just discovered someone else. Josi Kilpack also does culinary mysteries. I haven't read them yet, but I've seen the recipe for Butterfinger Cookies. I am so sold.
. . .
But that is it really. Besides, I want to talk about FOOD. Yummy cookies and cakes and holiday goodies. The kind that make you gain weight. In the last couple days my desire to bake has gotten stronger. I haven't gotten that far though, because I am still trying to get out my Christmas cards (that arrived Tuesday), keep my house clean, fold laundry and feed everyone. I'm so tired of dealing with the papers and dirty stuff on my kitchen counters I can't bring myself to dirty it up when it's clean. (Plus something in there about being stuck at home and potty training and maybe a little PMS that has meant I am a MONSTER)
In case I haven't introduced you before - If you like a fairly clean mystery story plus lots of baking - may I introduce you to Joanne Fluke. She is the author of some 13 (or more?) mysteries entitled things like Apple Turnover murder, Fudge Cupcake murder etc. I like them. There stories are fun (occasionally predictable, but still enjoyable). I enjoy the characters. And I love her recipes. Okay, so I did NOT like Cottage Cheese pancakes. But there are other REALLY YUMMY recipes.
I've made things like...
Chippers (cookies made with crushed up potato chips. I'm not kidding. And I promise, they are SO GOOD.)
Orange Cake (with mini chocolate chips and chocolate fudge frosting. Oh yeah.)
Mango Bread. Yum.
Minty Melts. (another cookie)
Then I fell off the baking bandwagon in favor of canning. And then I burnt out. But I have other yummy stuff to try like... Minnesota Peach Cobbler....Chocolate Marshmallow cookie bars... Chocolate Highlander bars...Triplet Chiplet cookies. See a pattern anyone?
You don't even have to start with the first book. You'll pick up on the storyline quick enough. So I'd recommend...Peach Cobbler murder or Key Lime Pie murder.
OH and I just discovered someone else. Josi Kilpack also does culinary mysteries. I haven't read them yet, but I've seen the recipe for Butterfinger Cookies. I am so sold.
Monday, December 13, 2010
3 more 5K's
This year (although I didn't put it in my "looking forward to 2010" post) I wanted to run 2-3 5K's. Those of you that have been keeping up for a long time know that I started running them in 2009. Pretty much on a whim. I hated running as a teenager, particularly in conjunction with gymnastics conditioning. So deciding to run in 2009 was kinda crazy.
After I finished my first one, I felt a number of things. The first was sick! My bowls were gurgly (all day) and while cooling down I kept wondering if I was going to have to make a run for the bathroom. The bathroom I wasn't sure existed at that location. The second thing I felt was awesome! (Can you feel these things simultaneously?) I felt like this amzing healthy person. Also, I was hungry all day.
I have to say I haven't felt these things in quite the same way on any of my other runs. My bowls no longer freak out. I don't get hungry all day (I do get hungry an hour later). I still feel really good about what I've done - but nothing to quite compare to that first run.
The other day I ran with a co-worker at the gym (my co-worker who happens to be training for a marthon) and I ran for 50 minutes, intervals, since we both have bum knees. I'm quite sure this is the most I've run ever, in my entire life. And I've kicked around the idea of running farther.
You see, these 5K's I did this fall, they were supposed to be my last runs. Training for my first 5K of the year, supporting Dan Berschinski, my left knee starting having issues. I took a summer break from running. Until (again on a whim) I decided to do a 5K called the Goblin Gallop (really a 6K) and interval run. My knee does better, but still has issues occasionally. On Thanksgiving Day I ran the second annual Huffin for Stuffin. Earlier this month, I ran one called the Jingle Jog with Bill and Miriam.
That was supposed to be it right?
Then we ran for 50 minutes at the gym.
So, now I'm not quite sure what my plan is. My doctor said, physical ailments are pretty much the way of life as a runner. Or as an athelete for that matter. I've been thinking about my years as a gymnast recently. I pulled back muscles every year. And I can't tell you how many afternoons I sat in an ice water whirlpool with the 3-4 of us that suffered from shin splints.
Anyway, I'm undecided. But I met my goal! I'm pretty happy with that.
What would you do? Preserve your physical ability by moving on to something new? Or push forward (in a smart controlled way) while you still can?
After I finished my first one, I felt a number of things. The first was sick! My bowls were gurgly (all day) and while cooling down I kept wondering if I was going to have to make a run for the bathroom. The bathroom I wasn't sure existed at that location. The second thing I felt was awesome! (Can you feel these things simultaneously?) I felt like this amzing healthy person. Also, I was hungry all day.
I have to say I haven't felt these things in quite the same way on any of my other runs. My bowls no longer freak out. I don't get hungry all day (I do get hungry an hour later). I still feel really good about what I've done - but nothing to quite compare to that first run.
The other day I ran with a co-worker at the gym (my co-worker who happens to be training for a marthon) and I ran for 50 minutes, intervals, since we both have bum knees. I'm quite sure this is the most I've run ever, in my entire life. And I've kicked around the idea of running farther.
You see, these 5K's I did this fall, they were supposed to be my last runs. Training for my first 5K of the year, supporting Dan Berschinski, my left knee starting having issues. I took a summer break from running. Until (again on a whim) I decided to do a 5K called the Goblin Gallop (really a 6K) and interval run. My knee does better, but still has issues occasionally. On Thanksgiving Day I ran the second annual Huffin for Stuffin. Earlier this month, I ran one called the Jingle Jog with Bill and Miriam.
That was supposed to be it right?
Then we ran for 50 minutes at the gym.
So, now I'm not quite sure what my plan is. My doctor said, physical ailments are pretty much the way of life as a runner. Or as an athelete for that matter. I've been thinking about my years as a gymnast recently. I pulled back muscles every year. And I can't tell you how many afternoons I sat in an ice water whirlpool with the 3-4 of us that suffered from shin splints.
Anyway, I'm undecided. But I met my goal! I'm pretty happy with that.
What would you do? Preserve your physical ability by moving on to something new? Or push forward (in a smart controlled way) while you still can?
Monday, December 6, 2010
Here Comes Santa Claus - 2010
After a busy day of work (me), a 5K (all of us. another post) and dinner out we went to a Christmas party at church (turned out they had dinner there - oh well). And Santa Claus came! Miriam happened to be playing with some older kids near the door he came in. She walked right up to him. The older kids were very gracious and let her go first (as opposed to ignoring she was standing there and trampling her - actually I'm not sure how it went down I had to go grab a camera - maybe Miriam is fiesty). So she was first on Santa's lap. She was happy up there but wasn't sure about actually talking to him when he asked if she'd been good and what she might like for Christmas. She wanted to go back after she got off his lap.
We also finally put up the tree (Friday). It doesn't have any ornaments, but it's all good, being fiber optic and all.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Advent day 2?
So, Emily at Not That You Asked is doing a 25 days of christmas sort of thing with her kids, where they do something Christmas related every day. Today her post was considered a "cop out" activity - but I still found myself wondering how she was organized enough to think to order 12 Christmas books last month. So I thought I about doing something specifically Christmas related every day. Yesterday, we put up Miriam's Little People advent calendar and got out her Little People nativity sets.
Today, we were supposed to get out the tree. But we went to the park and watched a show and took a nap and mommy went to work. I got home, we ate, Miri went to bed and Daddy is doing Persian language lessons - not even kidding. So...I'm totally flopping on day two. I do have some plans for the next 23 days. They made include things like - actually order Christmas cards (they are FREE after all), bake gingerbread men, actually buy Christmas gifts, play Christmas carols (Miri can toot on the recorder and I'll play flute. Daddy will play whatever he likes). Maybe one day we'll go BUY a new Christmas book. Ride the Christmas train. Walk a 5K called the Jingle Jog (okay, that one is Saturday).OH yeah - I've got a good one! Make felt Christmas flowers I got out of Better Homes and Gardens. See! Sometimes I can be creative. The rest of the time, I think I'll snag ideas from Emily.
Ahh - she's rocking little bear and Tigger. Darling, I know
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
New Shutterfly fan!
While I'm not a major fan of the Christmas letter (writing them that is, I enjoy reading other peoples) I usually can't resist sending a holiday card. Especially now, I love to send a Christmas photo card. What fun is it in life if you can't show off your family right? I'm always looking around for good deals or my favorite new layout.
This year, I have the opportunity to check out Shutterfly's holiday card collection. They have a TON of cards. Every kind of card, not just Christmas cards. I am particularly partial the 5x5 and 5x7 Stationary Cards, as they call them, rather than those that fold. My favorite part about navigating Shutterfly's card site though, is the Refine your search options on the left. You can choose size, color, type of paper, number of photos and even designer and it will pull up only those cards. So I'd like a red card, with 3+ photos, that is flat please and ta-da! It produces 92 results (instead of about 800) that fit that description. Hmm this one is cute.
So head over to Shutterfly!
And yes, I'm totally getting a bargain on this one, with some free cards ;) And you can too! Just head here.
This year, I have the opportunity to check out Shutterfly's holiday card collection. They have a TON of cards. Every kind of card, not just Christmas cards. I am particularly partial the 5x5 and 5x7 Stationary Cards, as they call them, rather than those that fold. My favorite part about navigating Shutterfly's card site though, is the Refine your search options on the left. You can choose size, color, type of paper, number of photos and even designer and it will pull up only those cards. So I'd like a red card, with 3+ photos, that is flat please and ta-da! It produces 92 results (instead of about 800) that fit that description. Hmm this one is cute.
So head over to Shutterfly!
And yes, I'm totally getting a bargain on this one, with some free cards ;) And you can too! Just head here.
Monday, November 22, 2010
My loyal followers ;)
So I guess I realized how many of you really are checking up with me, since I have returned to my blog. And now I remember what I liked about it in the first place, keeping up with those of you I don't see otherwise! Thanks for being a little part of my life!
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Having Love
This weekend we went to an SCA event in which my husband got squired to a knight (yes, it is all organized that way, with Kings and Queens and Baron and Baronesses and Knights, etc) Duke (meaning he's won the right to be King a few times in his day) Sir (meaning he's a knight) John the Mad Celt (just gotta love that name). It was a good day. We stayed in a hotel the night before, ate out two dinners in a row and played outside all day, Saturday. Miriam and I ran around on a sandy white beach. It was a mini vacation. And we were back in time for me to teach my young women's lesson today!
I feel better. I mean, I still feel like there is a lot to do, but I guess that is never going to change. I'm just trying to keep my priorities straight! And the paper OFF my kitchen counter!
I talked to my great-grandmother on the phone a few months back, in which I told her that Bill worked ALL THE TIME (this was when he was still deployed and they worked 12hour days 5 days a week and 10 hour days the other 2). She just told me that work was what life was about. I've thought about that so much ever since. They raised 4 children (5, but one died very young) and my great-grandfather worked a day job and and evening job for a long time. They lived through wars and the Great Depression. They just worked and enjoyed their families when they could. They instilled morals and work ethic in their children. She was right, their lives were about work and sacrifice and the love of family. When I visited her for her 95th birthday last month she was so happy just to be surrounded by these children and grandchildren (and great and great-great grandchildren) she helped bring into the world. That was the fun part about being 95.
I can't really do better than my best. My best changes every day. What really matters is that we're taken care of and that my family feels loved. And I can do that!
I feel better. I mean, I still feel like there is a lot to do, but I guess that is never going to change. I'm just trying to keep my priorities straight! And the paper OFF my kitchen counter!
I talked to my great-grandmother on the phone a few months back, in which I told her that Bill worked ALL THE TIME (this was when he was still deployed and they worked 12hour days 5 days a week and 10 hour days the other 2). She just told me that work was what life was about. I've thought about that so much ever since. They raised 4 children (5, but one died very young) and my great-grandfather worked a day job and and evening job for a long time. They lived through wars and the Great Depression. They just worked and enjoyed their families when they could. They instilled morals and work ethic in their children. She was right, their lives were about work and sacrifice and the love of family. When I visited her for her 95th birthday last month she was so happy just to be surrounded by these children and grandchildren (and great and great-great grandchildren) she helped bring into the world. That was the fun part about being 95.
I can't really do better than my best. My best changes every day. What really matters is that we're taken care of and that my family feels loved. And I can do that!
Thursday, November 18, 2010
I had motivation to read Better Homes and Gardens though
First things first: Thanks Brenda! (Another very loyal follower)
Second things next. I can't shake this feeling of being very overwhelmed. I'm working a little more right now, getting ready for the Weight Watchers launch of the new program. We're going to an SCA event this weekend in which my husband is getting squired (like, to a knight). We've been sick so I'm doing a lot of laundry, trying to keep bugs at bay.
So every day I clean up the kitchen, mess up the kitchen, pick up toys ten million times and don't make it to whatever other project I had in mind, which is mostly, simplifying and organizing and GETTING RID OF BOXES AND PAPER and folding clothes so I no longer feel like I am NEVER DONE. Oh and not neglecting my daughter. She watches way too much TV already. Okay and I am never done but still.
I have reached a point where all I want to do is sit and read Harry Potter and not think about the dishes.
One accomplishment: I have moved all - or almost all - of Miriam's toys into her room. At least they aren't all out in my living room. Her room may be a mess, but out here still looks clean-ish. I'm hoping that this will at least help me keep my head on through the holidays. That is all I need. My head on.
So, back to work tonight. And then maybe I'll think about the hotel for tomorrow night. MAYBE, because I don't really want to. And it just occurred to me I never really finished the clothes I was working on the SCA... yeah, I don't think I'll be doing that either.
Any words of motivation?
Potty training update LATER :)
Second things next. I can't shake this feeling of being very overwhelmed. I'm working a little more right now, getting ready for the Weight Watchers launch of the new program. We're going to an SCA event this weekend in which my husband is getting squired (like, to a knight). We've been sick so I'm doing a lot of laundry, trying to keep bugs at bay.
So every day I clean up the kitchen, mess up the kitchen, pick up toys ten million times and don't make it to whatever other project I had in mind, which is mostly, simplifying and organizing and GETTING RID OF BOXES AND PAPER and folding clothes so I no longer feel like I am NEVER DONE. Oh and not neglecting my daughter. She watches way too much TV already. Okay and I am never done but still.
I have reached a point where all I want to do is sit and read Harry Potter and not think about the dishes.
One accomplishment: I have moved all - or almost all - of Miriam's toys into her room. At least they aren't all out in my living room. Her room may be a mess, but out here still looks clean-ish. I'm hoping that this will at least help me keep my head on through the holidays. That is all I need. My head on.
So, back to work tonight. And then maybe I'll think about the hotel for tomorrow night. MAYBE, because I don't really want to. And it just occurred to me I never really finished the clothes I was working on the SCA... yeah, I don't think I'll be doing that either.
Any words of motivation?
Potty training update LATER :)
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
The Things I Won't Share on Facebook
Ahh facebook. The great connection medium. Currently, I find myself with over 200 facebook "friends" I think I see posts from about 30 of them. Just a guess. I've often times found myself addicted to the status updates. A way to document my every thought and emotion! An outlet! Then again, with over 200 "friends" I've often got to thinking....I really don't want so and so to know about that. Easy enough to block one person right? But when I don't want a big GROUP of people to know and share their own "wisdom" on what I am about to say, that is a whole other story.
Here, on my blog, however I'm down to what? one dedicated reader (Thanks Mrs. Martyn!) and feel a little safer expressing my views/other occurrences in our lives without undesirable judgement. HERE I'm a lot less likely to run intothe friend who thinks Miriam was potty trained 6 months ago, where did she get that idea?? the unwanted opinions.
What you thought this was a post about Facebook? Nah, this is a post about POTTY TRAINING.
The truth is I dabbled in potty training about a year ago, trying to see if Miriam was "ready" She was really great about sitting on the potty when we asked, but she would just play and didn't seem to have any idea what the physical cues were that "hey, I need to go to the bathroom." So, when Daddy left on his deployment I decided not to press the issue. I kind-of...maybe...let the whole thing go. I can handle diapers and besides, it's a big change.
Now that we are back into potty training again, I'm wondering if that was the right decision. Like, maybe I should have buckled down (silly lazy me )and just DONE IT while he was gone. Or, at least, kept putting her on the potty a few times a day. About 4 months ago, Miriam started exhibiting some signs that she was mentally aware of her potty "urges", she'd tell me that she went to the bathroom and occasionally ask to sit on the toilet. Why didn't I seize the opportunity? Oh, only because we were traveling like maniacs, and daddy was coming home in a month and then we were going to travel like maniacs AGAIN. All valid.
So here I am. We were sick for the last month, so potty training again took a back shelf. As we eased back into it this time, I discovered - not a happy, compliant 2 year old, but a resistant 3 year old. Who wanted to wear her WHITE DIAPER. Don't give me that pretty pink Pull Up! Change my diaper! I'm gonna make you do it! I stuck to my guns and hid the white ones for nighttime use only. So pink "diapers" are now okay with her. And today, we are wearing no diapers at all. We have instituted the use of treats, and am now contemplated stickers. It's been a while since I read stuff about potty training alright? I guess it's time to pick it up again. Because we haven't actually GONE in the potty yet. Not since that one or two times one year ago. Awesome.
The truth. I feel much better now. And besides, I can't say all that on a Facebook status update.
Here, on my blog, however I'm down to what? one dedicated reader (Thanks Mrs. Martyn!) and feel a little safer expressing my views/other occurrences in our lives without undesirable judgement. HERE I'm a lot less likely to run into
What you thought this was a post about Facebook? Nah, this is a post about POTTY TRAINING.
The truth is I dabbled in potty training about a year ago, trying to see if Miriam was "ready" She was really great about sitting on the potty when we asked, but she would just play and didn't seem to have any idea what the physical cues were that "hey, I need to go to the bathroom." So, when Daddy left on his deployment I decided not to press the issue. I kind-of...maybe...let the whole thing go. I can handle diapers and besides, it's a big change.
Now that we are back into potty training again, I'm wondering if that was the right decision. Like, maybe I should have buckled down (
So here I am. We were sick for the last month, so potty training again took a back shelf. As we eased back into it this time, I discovered - not a happy, compliant 2 year old, but a resistant 3 year old. Who wanted to wear her WHITE DIAPER. Don't give me that pretty pink Pull Up! Change my diaper! I'm gonna make you do it! I stuck to my guns and hid the white ones for nighttime use only. So pink "diapers" are now okay with her. And today, we are wearing no diapers at all. We have instituted the use of treats, and am now contemplated stickers. It's been a while since I read stuff about potty training alright? I guess it's time to pick it up again. Because we haven't actually GONE in the potty yet. Not since that one or two times one year ago. Awesome.
The truth. I feel much better now. And besides, I can't say all that on a Facebook status update.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Back in the Blogosphere
For the last two months I completely dropped off the blogosphere. Most post ideas went as fast as they came and the truth was, I was just VERY BUSY.
In early September my husband returned from Afganistan. We kept very busy with eachother, with recreational activities (getting ready for recreational activities = one full week of sewing period clothing) and finally a big trip out west.
It was wonderful and we drove a LOT. But we saw Grandma's and Grandpa's (aka parents) and cousins and friends. We climbed to the top of Multnomah Falls and went climbing at an indoor Rock Wall with my former boss. Laser Tag for our friends birthday and a train ride to North Dakota for my Great Grandma's birthday. All awesome.
At home one or the other of us has been sick since mid October. I haven't felt like doing ANYTHING. Still, as long as I recover this week, we'll be past it now.
At church I got called into Young Womens. I am a Laurel Advisor (in other words I teach 16-18 year olds 3 Sundays a month). I've only done one lesson, but I really enjoyed it! I really like them! Today's lesson was not by me, but was about Gratitude. I am very grateful for young womens, my family, my health and my home. And that is really just the beginning!
We celebrated my little girls birthday this weekend! I can't believe that our baby is 3 years old! She is amazing and fun. She learns quickly, she is stubborn and she likes things just so. She loves to play and she is creative. She amazes us every single day!
In early September my husband returned from Afganistan. We kept very busy with eachother, with recreational activities (getting ready for recreational activities = one full week of sewing period clothing) and finally a big trip out west.
It was wonderful and we drove a LOT. But we saw Grandma's and Grandpa's (aka parents) and cousins and friends. We climbed to the top of Multnomah Falls and went climbing at an indoor Rock Wall with my former boss. Laser Tag for our friends birthday and a train ride to North Dakota for my Great Grandma's birthday. All awesome.
At home one or the other of us has been sick since mid October. I haven't felt like doing ANYTHING. Still, as long as I recover this week, we'll be past it now.
At church I got called into Young Womens. I am a Laurel Advisor (in other words I teach 16-18 year olds 3 Sundays a month). I've only done one lesson, but I really enjoyed it! I really like them! Today's lesson was not by me, but was about Gratitude. I am very grateful for young womens, my family, my health and my home. And that is really just the beginning!
We celebrated my little girls birthday this weekend! I can't believe that our baby is 3 years old! She is amazing and fun. She learns quickly, she is stubborn and she likes things just so. She loves to play and she is creative. She amazes us every single day!
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
At least she doesn't bite. Yet.
I was recently congratulating myself on being lucky enough not to have a child who takes off their diaper and smears poop all over the walls. I had to engage in this kind of thinking because I have a not-quite-three year old who has decided nap time is for the birds. Bedtime at all for that matter. I have found this a bit of a challenge to deal with. I am exhausted. Some days she does in fact still need a nap, but will never take one until at least 3pm, so more often then not we keep her up anyway and deal with the crankiness. Not always.
So - even though she's in the process of giving up her naps, I still lay her down at 1 or so for quiet time in her crib. I did this today, though I am pretty much past hope of her actually falling asleep at this point. Just over an hour later she is sounding a bit upset so I decide to let her out - as long as she calms down a bit, which she does.
As I approach the bedroom I smell poop - and it all makes sense! Because even back in the days when she TOOK naps, she would poop about half the time and not go back to sleep until I changed her diaper. Seriously.
It takes me a moment to take in what is in store for me today. Which is a naked kid, with a BIG turd on the the sheets and poop over her hands and legs. This was, however, no poop turned finger painting incident. As soon as she sees me she bursts into tears about how she has yucky on her and needs to wash her hands. And a lot of "Take it off. Take it off mom!!" Which continues until I finish hosing her off in the tub and washing her hands with soap in the sink.
I think was happened was this: she pooped her diaper and didn't want a dirty diaper. I didn't hear her telling me she needed a diaper change so she took it off. She then discovered that - ew! this is a little gross, what do I do with this?Get it off me. Then I walked in.
2 more things: I think she is really mentally ready for potty training now (or soon) and perhaps I should convert her bed to toddler like I've been thinking so she could really come and tell me or at least sit on the frog potty in her room. But these things freak me out a little. Good thing Bill is coming home soon!
So - even though she's in the process of giving up her naps, I still lay her down at 1 or so for quiet time in her crib. I did this today, though I am pretty much past hope of her actually falling asleep at this point. Just over an hour later she is sounding a bit upset so I decide to let her out - as long as she calms down a bit, which she does.
As I approach the bedroom I smell poop - and it all makes sense! Because even back in the days when she TOOK naps, she would poop about half the time and not go back to sleep until I changed her diaper. Seriously.
It takes me a moment to take in what is in store for me today. Which is a naked kid, with a BIG turd on the the sheets and poop over her hands and legs. This was, however, no poop turned finger painting incident. As soon as she sees me she bursts into tears about how she has yucky on her and needs to wash her hands. And a lot of "Take it off. Take it off mom!!" Which continues until I finish hosing her off in the tub and washing her hands with soap in the sink.
I think was happened was this: she pooped her diaper and didn't want a dirty diaper. I didn't hear her telling me she needed a diaper change so she took it off. She then discovered that - ew! this is a little gross, what do I do with this?Get it off me. Then I walked in.
2 more things: I think she is really mentally ready for potty training now (or soon) and perhaps I should convert her bed to toddler like I've been thinking so she could really come and tell me or at least sit on the frog potty in her room. But these things freak me out a little. Good thing Bill is coming home soon!
Friday, August 20, 2010
Now what?
I have returned. Apparently, I brought some rain with me.
I forgot how incredibly hot it is here. And humid. Okay, so I didn't forget that it was humid, I just forgot what it felt like.
I came home to a pretty clean house (thank you Kathy). Now I am sitting here looking at the messes on the floor feeling slightly overwhelmed (on account of all the projects I'd like to do to this place) and lonely. I hadn't thought of it before, but the truth is I've spent most of the last 6 weeks with other people. I don't know what to do here in this house. And now the thunder.
So, what next?
I forgot how incredibly hot it is here. And humid. Okay, so I didn't forget that it was humid, I just forgot what it felt like.
I came home to a pretty clean house (thank you Kathy). Now I am sitting here looking at the messes on the floor feeling slightly overwhelmed (on account of all the projects I'd like to do to this place) and lonely. I hadn't thought of it before, but the truth is I've spent most of the last 6 weeks with other people. I don't know what to do here in this house. And now the thunder.
So, what next?
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
I am going to miss you...
I am going to miss you:
Mountains and hills
Cool evenings
Fred Meyer
Bruttles
FRIENDS
Tillamook Cheese
Open Spaces
Lake Coeur D'Alene!
Family
See you next time...
Saturday, August 14, 2010
10 years gone!
Last weekend I had my 10 year high school reunion. Wow! Even though I was totally out of my element at the BAR (that all of these pictures are from) - I had an amazing time catching up and joking around. The next day we were on Lake Coeur d'Alene for a boat cruise (which was okay) but had a great time at our smaller get together at Rochelles place (thanks for the boat ride and the food and everything Chelle!). Sunday I made a stop at the family event, mostly to let Miriam play. It was fun, I stayed up way too late, got up way too early (I am mother to a 2 year old) and am glad to now be back to my regular life!
Thanks for a great time U High!
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Clarity
I've been traveling!
I've already written a post about the first bit of my journey. I'm just not certain I am ready to put it up yet.
This second stretch in my journey has brought me back to my Dad and Dede's home in Oregon. I may have mentioned in the past how much I love visiting here. The weather is mild (compared to that humid area I'm currently residing in), everything is green and there are hills and (REAL) mountains to view. I love the river we visited and the trail we hiked down (although Miriam wasn't up for going all the way to the little falls). I love Saturday market and the beautiful fresh food. I love little local shops and eateries. I love hanging out it Dede's yard. She's picked an awesome array of plants and I like sitting or walking around looking at the landscaping.
I find myself looking for a little more clarity while I am here. I wouldn't say that I have found it at all. In fact, I may have more turmoil in some ways. But I always find a desire to be less wasteful when I am here. Better to the earth, work harder in my garden, find the important things to do with my family.
Maybe it's because of all the new age and gardening books I am browsing.
Any secrets to finding clarity in your life?
I've already written a post about the first bit of my journey. I'm just not certain I am ready to put it up yet.
This second stretch in my journey has brought me back to my Dad and Dede's home in Oregon. I may have mentioned in the past how much I love visiting here. The weather is mild (compared to that humid area I'm currently residing in), everything is green and there are hills and (REAL) mountains to view. I love the river we visited and the trail we hiked down (although Miriam wasn't up for going all the way to the little falls). I love Saturday market and the beautiful fresh food. I love little local shops and eateries. I love hanging out it Dede's yard. She's picked an awesome array of plants and I like sitting or walking around looking at the landscaping.
I find myself looking for a little more clarity while I am here. I wouldn't say that I have found it at all. In fact, I may have more turmoil in some ways. But I always find a desire to be less wasteful when I am here. Better to the earth, work harder in my garden, find the important things to do with my family.
Maybe it's because of all the new age and gardening books I am browsing.
Any secrets to finding clarity in your life?
Every moment counts
(I've been on my trip for 5 weeks now - but when I started this post it had been 3)
What to post, what to post? I've been on my trip for almost 3 weeks. It's been enjoyable, crazy, and sometimes a little sad.
My mother in law has (had?) bone cancer. Found almost 2 years ago. For the last year and one half she's been undergoing treatments. That is to say, mostly major surgery. Her tumors have been in the pelvis, which is a tricky place for bone cancer. They've removed three tumors, she's had cadaver bone, then medical cement, then nothing taking the place of a chunk of her pelvis. She's battled a chronic infection. This spring they tried out chemotherapy. One round in the chronic infection flamed up, chemo was stopped and a surgery was performed that removed the last tumor, infected tissue AND the medical cement in her hip area.
When we first arrived in the Tri-Cities for our vacation she was having some issues. The short of the long is that she was assigned hospice care. I'm not sure what I think about it. I keep wondering if it was really necessary (it's not like they came in and said - the cancer is everywhere! There is nothing we can do). BUT I know our family there needs help and her pain needs to be under control.
My father-in-law is, so far, a bit of a rock. Very peaceful about the whole ordeal.
Bill arrived for his week off just after Miriam and I. We dealt with the ER and hospital stay for his mom (which resulted in above mentioned care). We took family pictures and had an anniversary dinner (7 years!), went to an art show and took a long walk with Grandpa Bill. We send Bill back to the desert.
After that we took a trip to Oregon, where I enjoyed my Dad and his wife, the great outdoors of Oregon and the Saturday market. I brought raspberries back to the Tri-Cities and made a great cobbler (though I say so myself). And I found out before I left that my sister in law is expecting another baby! Surprise!
This first part of the trip was very jam packed. In case you have been wondering where I have been.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Getting Ready
Lately, I've been getting ready for a trip. I've been finishing up work for the week, battling headaches, cleaning house (and somehow not getting very far), taking Miriam to the pool, planning Sharing Time, packing a little here, doing laundry there. You know how you try to get ready in advance, but end up doing a million things last minute anyway? That will probably be me.
Yard work was paramount over the last few days. I do enjoy looking at the flowers in our yard though...
This was my last big project before giving up on the yard. I've trimmed back bushes and watered plants and pulled weeds and weeds and weed. I should have had a before picture of this area - because it was all big green weeds. But I am very happy with it now.
So off I go to devise a packing list, and figure out what else I need to deal with before it comes time to walk out the door.
Monday, June 28, 2010
The Hunger Games
I've had a good year or so of thinking about reading The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. I never knew what to think of it when reading the jacket (not much info on the back ;) I picked it up from the library and promptly forgot about it for 2 weeks until it was almost time to turn it in and I decided I needed to get reading.
That was the end of life as I knew it.
At least for a few days.
It took me a few days to get going, but once I got into it I really got into it. When I finished the Hunger Games I went straight to the library for Catching Fire (book2) - which I finished in about 1 day. And when I was done with that I pined for a day or so until I decided to pre-order the 3rd book to make myself feel a little better.
These books were SO VERY GOOD. The story was good AND it made me think about life. Life as we know it (or for most of us - how we've never known it). All the battles that people have gone through on the earth and are still going through on the earth. The nature of hope. What courage is. (Other things I can't really bring up unless you've already read the books) And I've marvelled at our own history and how people have done it!
I'm also aware of something new. I've never been into Romance books. But you throw in a little love triangle with vampires, rebellions, or a fight to the death and -apparently - I'm hooked.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Movie Time
Funny that all I can find time to blog about right now is television. Perhaps because this makes for such a short post? Lately I have been really into Emma. (As in Jane Austens Emma.) Now I will admit that when I read the book I had to plow through it and once it was finished I vowed NEVER to read it again. I just did not enjoy it as much as Pride and Prejudice or Persuasion. But I still thoroughly enjoy the movies. PBS ran a new version of Emma several months ago. Then, after several months of Ooogling it on the shelves at Target I decided I'd like to buy it. I wasn't sure I liked it quite so much as the A&E version with Kate Beckinsdale - however, after seeing it again, I've decided it has it's own charm (I am onto my second viewing).
And now I'm moving on to Ooogling a Regency dress. Or at least a pattern for a Regency dress like this. If I ever get more brave (and learn a bit more about sewing) I'll put a post up about the construction of my Regency dress. In the mean time I am plenty busy canning and working on the QUIET BOOK that I have yet to post an update about.
And now I'm moving on to Ooogling a Regency dress. Or at least a pattern for a Regency dress like this. If I ever get more brave (and learn a bit more about sewing) I'll put a post up about the construction of my Regency dress. In the mean time I am plenty busy canning and working on the QUIET BOOK that I have yet to post an update about.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Braves game!
So Stefanie got me a ticket to go with them to the Braves game on Memorial day. I've decided that Memorial day is the best day ever to go to a baseball game. Ceremonial first pitch by the commanding general at Ft. Benning. 21 gun salute. Gigantic flag on the field for the Star Spangled Banner. Veterans representing different wars honored on the field. Servicemen and family members of deployed servicement around the diamond. Halting the whole thing for a minute of silent remembrance at 3pm. Atlanta Opera Tenor singing God Bless America. And more. It was awesome.
And we won 9-3:)
We got our picture taken by the fan page photographers. I would have liked to snag it for the blog, but of course I have to pay 13 dollars to get ahold of one of those. I think they should give a cheaper version and allow me to download the picture. In any case our picture is on the fan page here.
What a great time!
And we won 9-3:)
We got our picture taken by the fan page photographers. I would have liked to snag it for the blog, but of course I have to pay 13 dollars to get ahold of one of those. I think they should give a cheaper version and allow me to download the picture. In any case our picture is on the fan page here.
What a great time!
Sunday, May 30, 2010
5K the Third
Well this Saturday was the All-American 5K for Lt Dan Berschinski
I loved being a part of it and I took Stefanie for her first 5K (we'll see if she loves me or hates me for that ;)
It was really awesome, starting out our race with the National Anthem, then finishing off by being handed an American flag. After munching my banana at the end I spotted Lt Dan and went over to shake his hand and tell him THANK YOU for his service. It was just a reminder to me that all our men and women in the service really do write our government a blank check up to and including their lives. They deserve to be remembered. I came it at 32:58 this time. A new personal best! Barely :) As I ran up to the finish I thought, if you can just come in under 33 minutes you'll beat your own record....
Then it was off to the Renaissance Fair, where we watched these people (www.barelybalanced.com)
And took pictures with Pirates :)
After all this was done I went off to get a deluxe spa facial - which was awesome. Then I took Miriam to an indoor play place complete with those big balloon jumping things and balloon slides. (Not pictures of that sadly) WHAT a busy day - but it was great!
And I'd like a facial or massage every week for the rest of my life please. So worth it after running/walking all over the place...
Friday, May 28, 2010
Back in the yard
We've been discovering lots of new great things about our yardEarlier we had Irises...
Kausa Dogwood was blooming. Apparently the berries will be edible...
Lilies (one of several kinds. Calla lilies coming later in the summer)
Hydrangea! Blue!
And no idea what this is, but I'm pretty sure it's going to open up with these white flowers ALL over. I can't wait!!
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Quiet Books
I've started making a quiet book. I started quite a while ago with a lot of felt. Since then there has been a lot of cutting (I mean, A LOT) and sorting through fabric and beads and other crafty supplies generously given to me by Kathy. Things are finally starting to come together.
Ahh what a cute ladybug!!
Did you see that one coming? My weird looking ladybug babies?? I started the spots with a hole punch but it just wasn't getting the job done. Now we like to say they have character.
I have a lot of love for this fabric (hence the flowers cut out of it). These will button on the page.
Yeah for balloons! I think I'll write POP on the side of the page. These will attach with snaps.
This is Sasquatch. Can you tell that he is a teddy bear? We laugh whenever we look at him now. He's just Sasquatch to me.
These have a little farther to go. A mitten on the left (complete with face) and a kitty on the right (with a bow to tie. I think. We'll see once we get there)
Ahh what a cute ladybug!! 
Did you see that one coming? My weird looking ladybug babies?? I started the spots with a hole punch but it just wasn't getting the job done. Now we like to say they have character.
I have a lot of love for this fabric (hence the flowers cut out of it). These will button on the page.
Yeah for balloons! I think I'll write POP on the side of the page. These will attach with snaps.
This is Sasquatch. Can you tell that he is a teddy bear? We laugh whenever we look at him now. He's just Sasquatch to me.
These have a little farther to go. A mitten on the left (complete with face) and a kitty on the right (with a bow to tie. I think. We'll see once we get there)I'd like to take more of the credit. And while I am working hard at it - Kathy is doing all of the sewing. So she rocks! And someday I'll work on that part myself...
But I'm doing LOTS of work - I promise. Did you notice all the tracing and cutting and pinning etc?? That's me.
I've got more pages to come! I just didn't want to overwhelm you in one shot :)
Friday, April 30, 2010
My decade in review - 2005
FYI - I finally got some pictures up on 2001 (working on the others). Kirsten (and Karen if you ever read this) some are especially for you
At the very beginning of 2005 Bill's unit left for training (in California and North Carolina) and then to Iraq. We'd had lots of unit "meetings" and Key Volunteers was all set up. So all the families were at the reserve center that first weekend in January to send them off.
I can't really describe for you what it was like. You've already had really tough conversations that you just don't think you'll have to have in your 20's - things like - "Where would you want to be buried?" It's already done. Now they are just on their way out. We were sitting in the "gym" chowing down on our last dinner and then they are ushering us out. At least, that is all I remember.
The weirdest thing ever was being awakened by a phone call the next morning from a collection agency looking for William Cox. And at 6 a.m. you are wondering what kind of double life your husband has been leading until it finally comes out that they've got the wrong William Cox. Honestly. (Don't worry they harassed me for like 5 more months. It if for this reason I do not recommend pay as you go phones.)
Back at home I worked part time in the Chemistry department, played in my adult beginners symphony orchestra, reorganized my apartment several times, took trips to see family (in Idaho) and friends (in Salt Lake). At the end of the school year I went through honors convocation (remember I'd graduated in December 2004). For whatever reason I decided not to do the big walk. I'll make up for it later.
At the party at my grandparents the weekend of graduation (with Bill's siblings Lena and Ryan)
In the summer - since I had no more work - I went and spent a month at my mom's in Arizona. It was hot, they were in the middle of moving into their first house. It was great to be there and help/see that. When I came home we had a lot of family around for my Grandparents 50th wedding anniversary.
At the very beginning of 2005 Bill's unit left for training (in California and North Carolina) and then to Iraq. We'd had lots of unit "meetings" and Key Volunteers was all set up. So all the families were at the reserve center that first weekend in January to send them off.
I can't really describe for you what it was like. You've already had really tough conversations that you just don't think you'll have to have in your 20's - things like - "Where would you want to be buried?" It's already done. Now they are just on their way out. We were sitting in the "gym" chowing down on our last dinner and then they are ushering us out. At least, that is all I remember.
The weirdest thing ever was being awakened by a phone call the next morning from a collection agency looking for William Cox. And at 6 a.m. you are wondering what kind of double life your husband has been leading until it finally comes out that they've got the wrong William Cox. Honestly. (Don't worry they harassed me for like 5 more months. It if for this reason I do not recommend pay as you go phones.)
Back at home I worked part time in the Chemistry department, played in my adult beginners symphony orchestra, reorganized my apartment several times, took trips to see family (in Idaho) and friends (in Salt Lake). At the end of the school year I went through honors convocation (remember I'd graduated in December 2004). For whatever reason I decided not to do the big walk. I'll make up for it later.
Jenna and I on temple square
At honors convocation
At honors convocation At the party at my grandparents the weekend of graduation (with Bill's siblings Lena and Ryan)
In the summer - since I had no more work - I went and spent a month at my mom's in Arizona. It was hot, they were in the middle of moving into their first house. It was great to be there and help/see that. When I came home we had a lot of family around for my Grandparents 50th wedding anniversary.Bill did pretty well - from what I remember. We should probably ask him about it. His unit was amazingly lucky - what with all the traveling they did. We would talk via messenger as often as possible. I really can't tell his end of the story about his deployment. I learn something new every time he talks to someone about it. 
We all drove back to the Tri-Cities and dropped in on the rest of the family. I think we went out for Bill's dads birthday.
I started looking for a job. I actually was hired by LA Weight Loss. You know - I was looking forward to working with them. But I guess I lost my nerve, or didn't feel quite right about the whole thing. So I went back to work in the Chemistry department (which I still love by the way) until Bill came home. It gave me the major flexibility I felt I needed at the time.
They arrived back home in October. This is another experience that I find hard to describe. I drove to Yakima with my mother-in-law and my brother-in-law, Ryan. Ryan and I went back to the car to get the camera and I remember feeling like I had jello legs on the way back so I grabbed Ryan's hand. And we started running. Ryan was our photographer that day.
We all drove back to the Tri-Cities and dropped in on the rest of the family. I think we went out for Bill's dads birthday.In November we headed back to Yakima for the unit's "official" welcome home celebration in Yakima. It was very fun - and our veterans got treated to a free dinner at local restaurants.
Also that month -right before Thanksgiving - we had our laser eye surgery. We had gone in 2 weeks before to get our eye's examined and see if we were eligible and the next this I knew we were scheduling surgery for 2 weeks away! There is no denying I was freaked out. But things went well and we have great eyesight now. It was amazing!
I don't remember much else about the rest of the year. We had a great time with our family.
I started training to work for Weight Watchers in December to get ready for the big push in January 2006...
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Shrimp Boil
So almost 3 months ago now we went to a Mardi Gras party. Food and kids and friends - it was pretty good. But I've been meaning to post about it ever since just so I can show you the pictures of what we ate. It was call shrimp boil (I think) and this is what it looked like.
Woo hoo right? With lost of these:
Yeah....it took me a while to actually TOUCH one of these (they are Crawfish by the way). It took some serious willpower to overcome the initial distaste enough to learn how to pull it apart and eat it. Which I did do. I think I was on the 3rd when they hosts husband said. "You know, lobsters, crab, crawfish - they are all like the roaches of the ocean." I was pretty much done after that.
Monday, March 29, 2010
I'd rather be blogging
I've got a bill (or two) to pay, dishes to put away, dishes to wash, dishes for the Nursery to wash - so they're are out of my way - and other stuff to pick up. Not too bad right? Except it's already 9:30!
I can't figure it out exactly but every day since I've gotten home from vacation has been filled with problems (furnace), phone calls (family), and ....what's a word that starts with "p" that means "cleaning"?
And also - cat neutering. Except for the incessant meowing the night before - in which I was keeping him inside against his will and not feeding him (Dr.'s orders) the experience was really easy. He came home, slept for a good 4 hours and then was ready to go back outside. Because I let him have some of the new Meow Mix (oh wait no I didn't! I discovered AFTER the neutering that in his starvation he had climbed up and chewed into the bag so he could eat. Of course!) - he won't finish out the 5 bowls of cat food left in side the Kirkland bag. Also, after 2 days outside, his newest collar (containing his rabies tab and microchip number tag) is already gone. I think I made the right decision in micro chipping this cat.
You guys, I wanted to cry when I came home after 9 days and saw my lawn. Remember my pile?? - Seemed pointless. So my new motto is "Better living through chemistry." which I picked up from my boss in the chemistry office. I took some "extra" money I had and hired a lawn company to live up to my motto. Right now it doesn't look any better. They said a couple of applications. They better be right! I paid some guys to put down some mulch (thanks to my neighbors for the great/cheap recommendation!) Now I just need someone with a mower to come help me out with the mowing. Until I can afford to get one of my own. Then I just need an extra few hours in the day, a pause button for time, or a clone - so I can mow the lawn myself.
Oh look! Now it's almost 10pm. I'm going to go finish my chat with a friend, check my email again and then maybe get started on my to-do list. Or go to bed and read my book. My date for the gym only starts at 8:45 am.... it Miriam would just sleep until 8...
I can't figure it out exactly but every day since I've gotten home from vacation has been filled with problems (furnace), phone calls (family), and ....what's a word that starts with "p" that means "cleaning"?
And also - cat neutering. Except for the incessant meowing the night before - in which I was keeping him inside against his will and not feeding him (Dr.'s orders) the experience was really easy. He came home, slept for a good 4 hours and then was ready to go back outside. Because I let him have some of the new Meow Mix (oh wait no I didn't! I discovered AFTER the neutering that in his starvation he had climbed up and chewed into the bag so he could eat. Of course!) - he won't finish out the 5 bowls of cat food left in side the Kirkland bag. Also, after 2 days outside, his newest collar (containing his rabies tab and microchip number tag) is already gone. I think I made the right decision in micro chipping this cat.
You guys, I wanted to cry when I came home after 9 days and saw my lawn. Remember my pile?? - Seemed pointless. So my new motto is "Better living through chemistry." which I picked up from my boss in the chemistry office. I took some "extra" money I had and hired a lawn company to live up to my motto. Right now it doesn't look any better. They said a couple of applications. They better be right! I paid some guys to put down some mulch (thanks to my neighbors for the great/cheap recommendation!) Now I just need someone with a mower to come help me out with the mowing. Until I can afford to get one of my own. Then I just need an extra few hours in the day, a pause button for time, or a clone - so I can mow the lawn myself.
Oh look! Now it's almost 10pm. I'm going to go finish my chat with a friend, check my email again and then maybe get started on my to-do list. Or go to bed and read my book. My date for the gym only starts at 8:45 am.... it Miriam would just sleep until 8...
Friday, March 19, 2010
I am woman
I can cart two (large diaper bag sized) bags and a purse and a child with stroller through an airport.
I can take off our shoes and take out our portable DVD player and arrange this with all previous stuff to go through airport security
I can reassemble bags and child and huff it to my airport gate
I can survive 20 minutes of tantrums on an airplane about not wearing the seatbelt and...whatever else was going on in her brain until we finally took off.
I can hold a sleeping two year old, get a bag out with my foot, find a wallet and pay for a sandwich and eat it all with one hand.
I can dig out a book a read it with one hand - until my other arm fell asleep an hour later and in the shuffle - I woke up the toddler.
I can entertain a 2 year old for the rest of the flight - alright - my new portable DVD player might have helped - but I could have done it all by myself. I'm just glad I didn't have to.
I am mom. I can do hard things
And now I am tired.
I can take off our shoes and take out our portable DVD player and arrange this with all previous stuff to go through airport security
I can reassemble bags and child and huff it to my airport gate
I can survive 20 minutes of tantrums on an airplane about not wearing the seatbelt and...whatever else was going on in her brain until we finally took off.
I can hold a sleeping two year old, get a bag out with my foot, find a wallet and pay for a sandwich and eat it all with one hand.
I can dig out a book a read it with one hand - until my other arm fell asleep an hour later and in the shuffle - I woke up the toddler.
I can entertain a 2 year old for the rest of the flight - alright - my new portable DVD player might have helped - but I could have done it all by myself. I'm just glad I didn't have to.
I am mom. I can do hard things
And now I am tired.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
I {heart} my gym
The last couple of months I have not been doing well keeping up with my fitness regimen. I've been trying to get into a regular fitness routine, including cardio, yoga, and strength training.
The truth is - I'm getting stuck in a trap of bad weather and not wanting to get up in the morning. Naptimes and after bedtimes I've always got other things going on - or am just plain tired.
Lots of people at church have been talking about one of the gyms in our area - so I've asked a few about it. Turns out - we get a discount! So last week after considering it several times a day - I went and signed up! (I had to pay extra to be able to use the childcare room but what other option do I really have?)
It has been awesome! I feel SO good for doing regular exercise and I LOVE the diffrent classes available to me! I've tried their step class and yoga and went to my first Spin class. It was very HARD. If you like to sweat and burn calories spin class is for you. I thought I wouldn't be able to move my legs in the next two days. Shockingly - I never got too sore. I guess I need to work harder next time -ugh!
The one problem I'm having is Miriam doesn't want to go to the childcare center. We've hung out there and they have toys and a TV and a "big toy" - which I thought she'd love. The girls that work there are really nice. I'm not sure if she's just upset that I don't stay with her??
Well now we're on vacation and I've got a travel pass but haven't made it to the gym yet. Any thoughts on how to make the childcare transition go a little easier. I've got a whole week to think about it.
Monday, March 8, 2010
A big ol' pile of yard work
Today we had an incredibly nice day in the south. An "outside in a short sleeved shirt" sort of day. After I put Miriam down for a nap - I spent an hour outside pulling weeds in my front lawn. This was the result.
(Next to the newpaper - for a size reference.)
It filled 1/3-1/2 of a bag. This was just my front lawn. Not the sides OR the back. AND it was by no means ALL of the weeds in my front lawn. Although I like to think I got most of them. The worst areas though were around one of my trees and the side near my neighbors lawn. (I'd show you a picture of the difference in their lawn...but thought maybe I shouldn't)
Honestly - it's not like my lawn looks awful - but look at all of that!! Sheesh.
I think that perhaps people think I am joking when I say I am seriously considering flying my dad and Dede here for a week to a) help watch Miri and b) help in my yard. But hello! - Did you see that giganitc pile of weeds?
I once asked my Dad what he and his wife use on their lawn. Well, they don't use anything - they just yank them themselves and try to keep up with things that way. They're all natural and environmentally responsible like that. So I thought - maybe that's all I need to try and do. My experience with the fall weeds was crazy though. Like I could pull and pull for 30 minute stints at a time (weather permitting) and feel like I barely made a stint in my 4x4 area.
What now? Working in my yard was really addicting. If I hadn't had to get ready for work I probably would have continued working down the side of my house. But where do I draw the line exactly? How much of Miriam's increasingly limited naptime to I spend pulling weeds? (I pull weeds with her outside too and it's NOT EASY as anyone with a 2 year old in an unfenced yard may attest. Pulling "weeds" like mommy only lasts for so long.) Not to mention in a few months it'll be REALLY HUMID here. I suppose I could pull weeds at 7 a.m. (hahahaha)
So - do I enlist help? Do I truck it down to Home Depot and buy a bag of weed killer? Or do I call TruGreen to learn about their many options for lawn care? Or do I continue to wage war in my yard?
It filled 1/3-1/2 of a bag. This was just my front lawn. Not the sides OR the back. AND it was by no means ALL of the weeds in my front lawn. Although I like to think I got most of them. The worst areas though were around one of my trees and the side near my neighbors lawn. (I'd show you a picture of the difference in their lawn...but thought maybe I shouldn't)
Honestly - it's not like my lawn looks awful - but look at all of that!! Sheesh.
I think that perhaps people think I am joking when I say I am seriously considering flying my dad and Dede here for a week to a) help watch Miri and b) help in my yard. But hello! - Did you see that giganitc pile of weeds?
I once asked my Dad what he and his wife use on their lawn. Well, they don't use anything - they just yank them themselves and try to keep up with things that way. They're all natural and environmentally responsible like that. So I thought - maybe that's all I need to try and do. My experience with the fall weeds was crazy though. Like I could pull and pull for 30 minute stints at a time (weather permitting) and feel like I barely made a stint in my 4x4 area.
What now? Working in my yard was really addicting. If I hadn't had to get ready for work I probably would have continued working down the side of my house. But where do I draw the line exactly? How much of Miriam's increasingly limited naptime to I spend pulling weeds? (I pull weeds with her outside too and it's NOT EASY as anyone with a 2 year old in an unfenced yard may attest. Pulling "weeds" like mommy only lasts for so long.) Not to mention in a few months it'll be REALLY HUMID here. I suppose I could pull weeds at 7 a.m. (hahahaha)
So - do I enlist help? Do I truck it down to Home Depot and buy a bag of weed killer? Or do I call TruGreen to learn about their many options for lawn care? Or do I continue to wage war in my yard?
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Thrift Stores and Curtains - the horror!
I like these. Really - I do. But I'm not exactly sure how they would look in my living room. I've only got one window that would be getting these. Unless I thought they would also go in my dining room. I've gotten lots of good pointers from friends and good suggestions - like - buy your own fabric and make them.
So far, with curtain/fabric for curtain shopping, I'm feeling a lot like a do about thrift store shopping. Why spend hours going through all the JUNK to maybe find something you might like. So when I see something I think would work, I'm much more inclinded to get it. Rather than shop through more stuff. Even if it cost me 10 more bucks at a regular store. (Side note to thrift store junkies: I've totally gotten great stuff second hand. I'm just impatient. Once I've figured out what I would like to have it's hard for me to spend eons looking for it.)
My curtain shopping mentality is slightly different though in that - I can't figure out what I want/like! So - cheap or expensive, already-done or DIY - I have no idea when I'm looking for exactly! So EVERYTHING feels like I am thrift store shopping. It's all JUNK.
Okay not really. I did see some things I like. (reference above picture) I'm just....???????
NOT an interior decorator. Good thing it's my house.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
My decade in review - 2004. Also, my Weight Watchers story
I keep forgetting things! I guess that is what happens. This was 6 years ago. (Ack!)
To begin 2004 I have to give you some back story.
I was one of those college freshmen who discovered a whole new way of eating when I got to the dorms. All of a sudden there was JUICE (we drank a lot of water at home) and doughnuts and tater-tots and pizza EVERY day. I had a rather warped idea about exercise (a 1990's entry) and decided not to exercise at all (besides walking to and from class). So I gained 30 pounds those first few years.
In August of 2003 I was busy unpacking while Bill was at his 2 weeks. We had moved without any physical injury. One day I bent over to pick up my purse and - yanked my lower back muscles. This isn't something new. This has been happening to me since I was 14. I've even competed at a regional (high school) gymnastics competition on beam and vault with a pulled muscle - just loaded up on Ibuprophen, but this is also part of the 1990's so....moving forward. Pulled another back muscle. After 8 weeks of trying to recover I went into the doctor to get it checked out - since I'd never had the healing process take quite so long. There was nothing "wrong" (other then the fact I had a pulled muscle) but she did say "I don't know where you put it, but you can't carry that kind of weight around." Needless to say I became one of the only 20 somethings on campus with the absolute necessity to have a roller backpack. By the end of 2003 - the pain had gone away, but not the problem.
To begin 2004 I have to give you some back story.
I was one of those college freshmen who discovered a whole new way of eating when I got to the dorms. All of a sudden there was JUICE (we drank a lot of water at home) and doughnuts and tater-tots and pizza EVERY day. I had a rather warped idea about exercise (a 1990's entry) and decided not to exercise at all (besides walking to and from class). So I gained 30 pounds those first few years.
In August of 2003 I was busy unpacking while Bill was at his 2 weeks. We had moved without any physical injury. One day I bent over to pick up my purse and - yanked my lower back muscles. This isn't something new. This has been happening to me since I was 14. I've even competed at a regional (high school) gymnastics competition on beam and vault with a pulled muscle - just loaded up on Ibuprophen, but this is also part of the 1990's so....moving forward. Pulled another back muscle. After 8 weeks of trying to recover I went into the doctor to get it checked out - since I'd never had the healing process take quite so long. There was nothing "wrong" (other then the fact I had a pulled muscle) but she did say "I don't know where you put it, but you can't carry that kind of weight around." Needless to say I became one of the only 20 somethings on campus with the absolute necessity to have a roller backpack. By the end of 2003 - the pain had gone away, but not the problem.
At the beginning of 2004 I decided to take the aerobics class on campus. I went every day for a month and did step-aerobics, kickboxing, cardio dance - whatever aerobic stuff they had. After a few weeks I started developing shin splints (another gymnastics problem) I was being so hard on my legs. So I had to start doing yoga or pilates a couple times a week to balance all the pounding. Interestingly enough, that was when I began to lose weight. I did not lose very fast (Those Biggest Loser people don't know what they are talking about when they think they haven't lost fast) 5 pounds in 3 months.
I had a class with my friend Alison - who I hadn't seen for a few months -she looked fabulous! She had lost weight with weight watchers so I decided to give it a try. Carolyn and Karen and Toni took excellent care of me. I lost 5 pounds those first 2 WEEKS.
So 2004 was a mixture of Weight Watchers, school, and being newly married. My step-sister graduated high school! Bill went to his 2 weeks - where we learned a 2005 deployment was likely.
The fall of 2004 I reached my goal weight and become a lifetime member of Weight Watchers. Bill's unit trained like mad-men (every weekend for like 2 months) to prepare for upcoming deployment. I was a bridesmaid in Jessica's wedding. In December I graduated from college!
Wow - looking back - that was a HUGE end-of-year....
Monday, February 22, 2010
Once there was a Snowman....
Many days ago we had snow. Lots of snow. Snow the you could pack and make snowballs and snowmen. We had the best time outside. And lots of crying when we had to come inside.I felt very at home with a good snowfall.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Becoming a yarn junkie
Do you ever pick up old hobbies out of nowhere? Recently I decided to pick up knitting again. I learned how to do a basic knit stitch when I was 8 or 9 from my Grandmother and Great-Grandmother. I never got very far, but every 5 or 10 years I'd pick it up and knit away until I had a washcloth. But I couldn't remember how to bind off and apparently wasn't interested enough to take a lesson. About 5 years ago I picked up the Knifty Knitters after an enrichment lesson making hats and scarves.
So it's been about 5 years and, true to form, I'm picking it up again. I must say I am farther than I have ever been. I finished a scarf and a hat with my knifty knitters. I got a Knitting in Motion DVD from the library and learned several different stitches. I got Crocheting in Motion from the library and learned some basic Crochet stitches. (After reading Karin's blog around Valentines day I've decided I must learn enough to make these.) I've found which friends can teach me and (hopefully) keep me going with my new hobby. One friend just brought over a couple bags of yarn. I am so thrilled. Yeap - it's the washcloth again. This time...I can finish it!!
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