We are minutes away from home. Chris swears we won't be doing that drive again, so start saving your change to contribute to next year's airfare fund I suppose.
It's 45 degrees and partly sunny, and I have to admit ready to be out of the car too. There's only so many times I can pretend to be amused at various things Baby Belle puts on her head....
Saturday, December 29, 2012
Home Stretch Home
A pleasant stay in Beckley, WV, we woke this morning to an unexpected snowfall. It was so peaceful and quiet as the huge flakes seem to soak up the sound as they blanketed everything. We made an earlier than planned exit before the snow built up even more, and had about a half hour of some dicey driving.
All turned out fine however, and we're due home shortly around 11:30. The rest of the trip looks like it could potentially be a bit wet, but I think we're clear of snow.
All turned out fine however, and we're due home shortly around 11:30. The rest of the trip looks like it could potentially be a bit wet, but I think we're clear of snow.
Friday, December 28, 2012
What I Saw
A hawk
Perches
In a tree
Unguarded
By leafless
Branches
Silhouette
Surveying
The cold world
Caring only
That food
Is a flight away
And the air
Is his only
Worry
Oh
To be
A hawk
Perches
In a tree
Unguarded
By leafless
Branches
Silhouette
Surveying
The cold world
Caring only
That food
Is a flight away
And the air
Is his only
Worry
Oh
To be
A hawk
Post-Lunch
Lunch at McDonald's -- one with a Playland -- 3 ridiculously wired kids in the car. At least they're squeals of laughter right now. Earlier we had the Late December Pinchfest of 2012, not to be confused with the pre-Christmas Pinchfest of course. And ClaraBle screaming that Big Belle "smells like a pooper"....and then, with eyes brimming with tears, pridefully announcing "nobody loves me".
Sigh.
The scenery is getting very pretty. Snowy foothills, cattle on hilly slopes, powdered sugar branches, and a thin layer of clouds protecting our eyes from the suns reflective rays.
Cue screams, pinching, and a bloody nose from a picker in the backseat to add a lovely melodic backdrop to the serene outdoors.
Okay. I love everything we received for Christmas...but here's something to consider for next year, or any other time before that: Someone to take these Belles. Just for a night, or two. Chris and I can run away and escape to a quiet hotel room and relish in the hush.
Cue Baby Belle sticking piece of licorice in her ear to judge its entertainment value. Yeah, she ate it too. Who am I to deny her fun after all....
To be continued....
Sigh.
The scenery is getting very pretty. Snowy foothills, cattle on hilly slopes, powdered sugar branches, and a thin layer of clouds protecting our eyes from the suns reflective rays.
Cue screams, pinching, and a bloody nose from a picker in the backseat to add a lovely melodic backdrop to the serene outdoors.
Okay. I love everything we received for Christmas...but here's something to consider for next year, or any other time before that: Someone to take these Belles. Just for a night, or two. Chris and I can run away and escape to a quiet hotel room and relish in the hush.
Cue Baby Belle sticking piece of licorice in her ear to judge its entertainment value. Yeah, she ate it too. Who am I to deny her fun after all....
To be continued....
O, Bye-O
We had a cold send off this morning as the temperature was a chilling 12 degrees as we pulled out. Otherwise it's been uneventful thus far. I love morning travel, and there's been no traffic issues either. Clara Elle was thoroughly disgusted with the industrial smells of the city, and made it well known until we were out of range of the acidic haze. Big Belle settled comfortably with a snuggly small dog on her lap. Baby Belle is pretty settled as well. If I could breathe from this cold I'd be a lot happier, but glad the Tamiflu has helped Chris immensely! We've finished morning snacks, and crossed over the state line into Ohio about 7 minutes ago.
This cold seems to be clogging my brain, so forgive anything more intellie, but I'll keep you posted throughout the day.
This cold seems to be clogging my brain, so forgive anything more intellie, but I'll keep you posted throughout the day.
Thursday, December 20, 2012
O-HI-O
History lesson anyone? While we were passing Marietta, I saw on the history app that it has one of the oldest burial grounds WEST of the Appalachians, and one of the largest cemeteries for Revolutionary War officers.
Also, might I give a cheer for the AaAA TripTik App. Very similar to the hand held paper trip tiks you know and live, but on your phone! The only thing is that it doesn't highlight construction areas.
It's still overcast, but no rain yet. We're staying on target time-wise. See you soon mitten state!
Also, might I give a cheer for the AaAA TripTik App. Very similar to the hand held paper trip tiks you know and live, but on your phone! The only thing is that it doesn't highlight construction areas.
It's still overcast, but no rain yet. We're staying on target time-wise. See you soon mitten state!
Home Stretch
A soft coral pink is coloring the low slung clouds. It's not at all ominous, though the day is supposed to turn rainy. We had an early start, but a sect night's sleep. I can't speak for Chris, but I only received one kid-foot karate chop to the side of my head, the rest of it was nice and snuggly.
We stayed in a town outside of Parkersburg, WV -- a town best visited when you can't see it. Parkersburg itself was quite shady, or so it seemed. Might have been great, no offense West Va. In spite of a small mental challenge to find our way back to the freeway --no thank you Garmin or iPhone, road signs were the only help this morning-- and passing some sort of establishment with a sign that read "fleas navi dude" (seriously, I can't make this up), we are well on our way. Is it too much to ask for some serious car napping by children today?
We stayed in a town outside of Parkersburg, WV -- a town best visited when you can't see it. Parkersburg itself was quite shady, or so it seemed. Might have been great, no offense West Va. In spite of a small mental challenge to find our way back to the freeway --no thank you Garmin or iPhone, road signs were the only help this morning-- and passing some sort of establishment with a sign that read "fleas navi dude" (seriously, I can't make this up), we are well on our way. Is it too much to ask for some serious car napping by children today?
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Good Thing...
Good thing we are stopping soon. The Belles are getting restless.... And one Belle in particular is extra ornery. (Those who know them, I'll let you guess which one. This won't be hard.)
Looks like tomorrow will be a rainy drive; as long as its not difficult, I love rain. Looks like we may even see some snow in a few days.
Here's hoping the hotel pool is decent enough to provide an evening reward.
Looks like tomorrow will be a rainy drive; as long as its not difficult, I love rain. Looks like we may even see some snow in a few days.
Here's hoping the hotel pool is decent enough to provide an evening reward.
Moving Right Along
Elevation 3,252
Toll road--Big Belle is laughing that we have to pay money to drive on a road.
Kids eating candy.
Not nearly enough napping going on, I fully suspect it will occur 20 mo utes before we reach our destination.
Christmas music on
Toll road--Big Belle is laughing that we have to pay money to drive on a road.
Kids eating candy.
Not nearly enough napping going on, I fully suspect it will occur 20 mo utes before we reach our destination.
Christmas music on
Out of NC
We are fed, one asleep, and only on our first DVD. Not too bad considering screaming started before we were a quarter if a mile away from the driveway.
Baby Belle is screeching with delight as she sees the mountains in the distance. (I just might be squealing inside too. Oh how we love the mountains!). My popping ears are telling me we're close.
Highlights so far? A gun store we passed called Guns Out The Ying Yang. As much as I hate guns, it was pretty funny. And, thanks to my handy dandy History Here App, I have learned that we drove right near the grave sight of Chang and Eng Bunker: the "original" Siamese twins from Siam aka Thailand currently. Fascinating! Evidently they bought a plantation, married sisters (not connected ones) and, though joined at the chest somehow managed to father 21 children between the two of them. Don't say I never share anything useful.
Baby Belle is screeching with delight as she sees the mountains in the distance. (I just might be squealing inside too. Oh how we love the mountains!). My popping ears are telling me we're close.
Highlights so far? A gun store we passed called Guns Out The Ying Yang. As much as I hate guns, it was pretty funny. And, thanks to my handy dandy History Here App, I have learned that we drove right near the grave sight of Chang and Eng Bunker: the "original" Siamese twins from Siam aka Thailand currently. Fascinating! Evidently they bought a plantation, married sisters (not connected ones) and, though joined at the chest somehow managed to father 21 children between the two of them. Don't say I never share anything useful.
On our way
We took an even earlier start than usual. Looking forward to taking the drive in 2 days. All are well, ready to drive, and then ready for family!
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Friday, December 14, 2012
For the Love of Children....
Doctors hold their patients' lives in their hands often.
Police officers, firefighters have chances to see tragedy, as well as to triumph in safety.
As a mother, I would protect my children with my life.
When I chose to become a teacher, the thought that I would be in charge of the lives' of other people's children never came to mind. I know plenty of teachers who walk in the path of righteousness in their teaching careers believing that they can and will "make a difference". But who are they wanting that for...to truly change the world, or to feel the sense of accomplishment that comes with whatever they measure the 'difference' they made by.
As teachers, we are not super heroes. Often times, we are berated, ignored, and blamed. We are accused, judged, 'given too much credit', scoffed at (because look at our vacation time after all); yet rarely are we reminded that each day we hold children's lives in our room. The lives of many families are in our wellbeing. As I read comments on Facebook about the atrocities of violence that involve children in our schools, in our country, I am amazed at the number of teachers I see commenting. There are so many people who are reminding us all that they 'hugged their child a little longer today', and how picking their child up from school just wasn't as routine as it usually was. Which is only a fraction of the intense emotions running through all parents' minds. But what blows me away are the comments from the teachers. Some relatives, some colleagues, many friends: and what they are saying is about their intense devotion not only to their profession, but to each and every child. For these people remember, that each day parents send their children, their world -- our future -- to school to learn, and be safe. If children can't feel safe in our schools, how will they learn. For some children -- yes, even in the United States -- schools are the safest place they have.
I just want to say how proud I am that of all teachers. While we don't set out each day to save the world, or save the children, or make the world a better place, please take a moment to hug the children in your world a little tighter, and a little longer. And then remember, that your child's teacher most likely would take your child into their hands, and into their hearts, just as your child may do for them.
This post is dedicated to the staff, students and families of the latest tragedy in our world. It didn't have to happen.
Police officers, firefighters have chances to see tragedy, as well as to triumph in safety.
As a mother, I would protect my children with my life.
When I chose to become a teacher, the thought that I would be in charge of the lives' of other people's children never came to mind. I know plenty of teachers who walk in the path of righteousness in their teaching careers believing that they can and will "make a difference". But who are they wanting that for...to truly change the world, or to feel the sense of accomplishment that comes with whatever they measure the 'difference' they made by.
As teachers, we are not super heroes. Often times, we are berated, ignored, and blamed. We are accused, judged, 'given too much credit', scoffed at (because look at our vacation time after all); yet rarely are we reminded that each day we hold children's lives in our room. The lives of many families are in our wellbeing. As I read comments on Facebook about the atrocities of violence that involve children in our schools, in our country, I am amazed at the number of teachers I see commenting. There are so many people who are reminding us all that they 'hugged their child a little longer today', and how picking their child up from school just wasn't as routine as it usually was. Which is only a fraction of the intense emotions running through all parents' minds. But what blows me away are the comments from the teachers. Some relatives, some colleagues, many friends: and what they are saying is about their intense devotion not only to their profession, but to each and every child. For these people remember, that each day parents send their children, their world -- our future -- to school to learn, and be safe. If children can't feel safe in our schools, how will they learn. For some children -- yes, even in the United States -- schools are the safest place they have.
I just want to say how proud I am that of all teachers. While we don't set out each day to save the world, or save the children, or make the world a better place, please take a moment to hug the children in your world a little tighter, and a little longer. And then remember, that your child's teacher most likely would take your child into their hands, and into their hearts, just as your child may do for them.
This post is dedicated to the staff, students and families of the latest tragedy in our world. It didn't have to happen.
Not at My Brightest
File this in the "what were you thinking category"... But a homemade dark chocolate covered pretzel did indeed seem like a good idea at the time.
Thursday, December 13, 2012
War Paint
Warning to all of you with a little girl --or three. Sure all of those snazzy lip glosses look fun; sure your own little belle loves to play grown up and carry them around, and hey they really satisfy the sweet tooth too.
But then, boundaries are lost. And before you know it your very own Belle will cross sacred ground and desecrate your lipstick stash. Your favorite--because why would it be any other--lipstick will be smeared and pressed into its lid in silent sin.
Not once, but twice in one day, your Clinique Berry Berry and All Heart have met their match, as have 2 shirts, a baby doll, and a corner of the car seat.
Remember, if its quiet, it can't be good. Lock up your lipsticks and run--dont walk--away from the Tinkerbell gloss.
But then, boundaries are lost. And before you know it your very own Belle will cross sacred ground and desecrate your lipstick stash. Your favorite--because why would it be any other--lipstick will be smeared and pressed into its lid in silent sin.
Not once, but twice in one day, your Clinique Berry Berry and All Heart have met their match, as have 2 shirts, a baby doll, and a corner of the car seat.
Remember, if its quiet, it can't be good. Lock up your lipsticks and run--dont walk--away from the Tinkerbell gloss.
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Fur Family
Those with pets, understand.
The unspoken bond.
The soul you can read through the eyes, and who read you without you knowing it.
The forgiveness afforded to you unselfishly.
The way your you can almost see your heart filling up with love and happiness when they are near, no matter what has happened in other areas of your life throughout the day.
That there are no need for words, but if you want to talk they listen with wild abandon.
The connection.
The common lifeline you share -- each other.
The unconditional love.
We almost lost one of our fur babies this week due to a sudden, surprising, and uncontrollable illness. If I had not been home to take him to the vet, he would not have made it through the day. If our vet had not been so willing to have him in for observation until they could see him later in the day, he would not have made it. If our veterinarian had not followed through and looked at him sooner than scheduled, he would not have made it. With the crossing this summer of our dear old George, it was much to soon to have to watch another member of our fur family head to the Rainbow Bridge, but we are glad Scooby didn't have to cross at this time. We look forward to this Christmas with our families, those with fur as well as those without.
Monday, December 10, 2012
Daily Grind
I've been a SAHM (that's Stay At Home Mom) for a good 3 weeks now. (By the way, does any one else think that is the stupidest term ever? I sense a venting post just on that alone in my future....) It's very interesting to see the other side of the coin, where the grass was supposed to be greener. Where rainbows and unicorns would dance and sing, and I would gleefully prance about the house in comfortable clothes merrily vacuuming, dusting, and folding clothes as the hours passed.
Well, let me tell you something....
IT'S EVERYTHING I COULD HAVE HOPED FOR!!!! Well, unicorns and rainbows are eluding me, but I've never been a big fan of either anyways, so I'm cool with that. Now, I'm not saying I've developed some new found love for cleaning, organizing, cooking (actually that has not improved one bit and Chris still helps out with that everyday. What a guy!) I don't enjoy doing the housework, it's just that it can happen a bit more at my own pace, and if I want to take a nap in the middle of matching a pile of socks roughly the same height as the bed, then that is okay.
One thing that has been very interesting, is the amount of FREE time we have each evening and on the weekends. It's ridiculous! With the cleaning and chores out of the way, or knowing that I can work on something during the day rather than having to rush to fit it in during the evening hours, we have an enormous amount of time to just...be. We can lay around and be vegetables, we can play outside -- hello 75 degrees (again, another future post) -- we can be together without the idea of projects and chores looming over us in guilt. It's not like there aren't projects to be done, there are plenty, it's just that there is time now.
We have even noticed that this has had a great impact on the kids. They watch less television on the weekends and during the week, and they are playing with their toys, playing on the trampoline, and playing together without having to be asked, or threatened. It's not like they're really getting along or showing great improvement in their behavior, but I guess everything is much more relaxed.
It can't stay this way forever, eventually I will be headed back to the world of the working mom. I am not sure when that will happen, it could be a month; it could be more, it could be less. So I savor each day, I savor the morning cartoons; I savor folding clothes while I watch the Today Show. I savor the laundry (gulp), the kitchen sink (ew, not really), and all of the other tasks and chores throughout the days. Though at times it feels like that is all. I. do. is. clean. I savor it. Because I know that it means when Big Belle gets home from school, and Chris gets home from work, we can be together and relax.
In the meantime, the laundry is ready to go in the dryer, Clara Belle is hungry, the dishwasher needs some relief, and because I didn't do any picking up this weekend, I have to do the great Monday morning pickup. Perhaps the unicorn can help....
Well, let me tell you something....
IT'S EVERYTHING I COULD HAVE HOPED FOR!!!! Well, unicorns and rainbows are eluding me, but I've never been a big fan of either anyways, so I'm cool with that. Now, I'm not saying I've developed some new found love for cleaning, organizing, cooking (actually that has not improved one bit and Chris still helps out with that everyday. What a guy!) I don't enjoy doing the housework, it's just that it can happen a bit more at my own pace, and if I want to take a nap in the middle of matching a pile of socks roughly the same height as the bed, then that is okay.
One thing that has been very interesting, is the amount of FREE time we have each evening and on the weekends. It's ridiculous! With the cleaning and chores out of the way, or knowing that I can work on something during the day rather than having to rush to fit it in during the evening hours, we have an enormous amount of time to just...be. We can lay around and be vegetables, we can play outside -- hello 75 degrees (again, another future post) -- we can be together without the idea of projects and chores looming over us in guilt. It's not like there aren't projects to be done, there are plenty, it's just that there is time now.
We have even noticed that this has had a great impact on the kids. They watch less television on the weekends and during the week, and they are playing with their toys, playing on the trampoline, and playing together without having to be asked, or threatened. It's not like they're really getting along or showing great improvement in their behavior, but I guess everything is much more relaxed.
It can't stay this way forever, eventually I will be headed back to the world of the working mom. I am not sure when that will happen, it could be a month; it could be more, it could be less. So I savor each day, I savor the morning cartoons; I savor folding clothes while I watch the Today Show. I savor the laundry (gulp), the kitchen sink (ew, not really), and all of the other tasks and chores throughout the days. Though at times it feels like that is all. I. do. is. clean. I savor it. Because I know that it means when Big Belle gets home from school, and Chris gets home from work, we can be together and relax.
In the meantime, the laundry is ready to go in the dryer, Clara Belle is hungry, the dishwasher needs some relief, and because I didn't do any picking up this weekend, I have to do the great Monday morning pickup. Perhaps the unicorn can help....
Friday, December 7, 2012
Seemed Like a Good Idea at the Time....
We have an Elf on the Shelf. Have you seen them? I've tried to ignore them for several years now, not one to jump into pop culture or the latest holiday fad...and yet, here I am. Knee deep in elf and trolling on Pinterest for inspiration. (Thanks to the internet, there are times I feel like I can't think up my own ideas. Have you ever noticed how much easier it is to do an internet search and use someone else's? Lazy, yes.)
So. This year, it seemed like it was time to try the elf. The idea is, that this elf comes to visit during this holiday season. During the day he watches you, and at night he goes back to Santa and reports your behavior. In the morning, he (or she, you can pick the gender before you purchase) is usually "caught" in some completed mischief pose. (Cue needed inspiration for creativity, and something else to remember to do before bed.)
Yesterday our elf arrived. We read the story that accompanies him; reviewed the rules -- no touching the elf or he loses his magic -- and sat him on the shelf. Big Belle was very excited. Her classroom has one, and so she is all caught up in the magic that is "Christmas". Being good. I'm all for it. ClaraBelle...skeptic. Naturally, of course. But I believe the skepticism arose more out of nervousness and the hope of disbelief than anything else. In typical ClaraBelle fashion, a million and one questions that could possibly cast any shadow of a doubt that this could be true arose...until she finally accepted it. And, when he was in a different place than we left him after we returned from running an errand -- her eyes widened. Not in excitement, she still wanted to remain aloof, but oh her mind was turning.
And then she was up 3 times at night. She was scared. She didn't mention the elf was the reason, but I know it was. Although whether she was scared of the elf coming and going from her house, or what the elf was telling Santa -- which hey, she SHOULD be scared of -- I don't know. All I know, is I was up 3 times, and then woken up again at 6:00 am to let me know where the elf was.
We named him Happy by the way. But I was anything but.
Chris and I said that if this continued, Happy would be anything but. In fact, Happy might make an unexpected departure to the North Pole.
Has it helped behavior? Marginally. It hasn't hurt though, that's for certain.
I'll be sure to keep you posted, as I'm sure Happy will have many exciting antics to keep us all entertained for the next 19 days.
So. This year, it seemed like it was time to try the elf. The idea is, that this elf comes to visit during this holiday season. During the day he watches you, and at night he goes back to Santa and reports your behavior. In the morning, he (or she, you can pick the gender before you purchase) is usually "caught" in some completed mischief pose. (Cue needed inspiration for creativity, and something else to remember to do before bed.)
Yesterday our elf arrived. We read the story that accompanies him; reviewed the rules -- no touching the elf or he loses his magic -- and sat him on the shelf. Big Belle was very excited. Her classroom has one, and so she is all caught up in the magic that is "Christmas". Being good. I'm all for it. ClaraBelle...skeptic. Naturally, of course. But I believe the skepticism arose more out of nervousness and the hope of disbelief than anything else. In typical ClaraBelle fashion, a million and one questions that could possibly cast any shadow of a doubt that this could be true arose...until she finally accepted it. And, when he was in a different place than we left him after we returned from running an errand -- her eyes widened. Not in excitement, she still wanted to remain aloof, but oh her mind was turning.
And then she was up 3 times at night. She was scared. She didn't mention the elf was the reason, but I know it was. Although whether she was scared of the elf coming and going from her house, or what the elf was telling Santa -- which hey, she SHOULD be scared of -- I don't know. All I know, is I was up 3 times, and then woken up again at 6:00 am to let me know where the elf was.
We named him Happy by the way. But I was anything but.
Chris and I said that if this continued, Happy would be anything but. In fact, Happy might make an unexpected departure to the North Pole.
Has it helped behavior? Marginally. It hasn't hurt though, that's for certain.
I'll be sure to keep you posted, as I'm sure Happy will have many exciting antics to keep us all entertained for the next 19 days.
Sunday, December 2, 2012
What Comes Next....
True Conversation:
Setting: the car, of course
Baby Belle: "Stop touching me, no touching me, stop, no, no, no, no...." Amidst screams of exaggerated agony.
Naturally, this continues. And continues.
Mom: "ClaraBelle stop touching her right now" (of course this is AFTER I've used my nice, calm voice. Many times.)
Clara Belle: (without missing so much as a beat) "I just want to feel how soft her skin is".
So, we've been discussing Santa for a while now. Definitely since Thanksgiving, we may have even brought up his name a little before. We've even seen him several times, and the Belles have sat on his lap twice. The other night there was an older gentleman with a long beard, wearing an elf hat with ears. Baby Belle's eyes just about popped out of her head when she saw him and whispered "It's Santa Mommy". The girls didn't want to believe that there was an elf...a real elf in their midst. They tried to deny it, Big Belle tried to rationalize, but in the end realized it must be real. He even made his hat do a dance and jingle while on his head. It was just a regular old citizen getting in the spirit, which made it even more 'magical' for the girls. No line to wait in, no gimmick or promotion...just an elf. I think that bought us about an hour or more of pretty darn good behavior.
We've discussed the naughty and nice list. Until we're blue in the face. SOME Belles around here just don't seem to care. And by some, I mean mostly, one. Actually Big Belle has had a mini-epiphany of her own, that being good has more merits than getting into trouble. It's not to say she doesn't cause a small amount of issues around here, but no where near what she was capable of even a few weeks ago. Whether or not this has anything to do with acquiring the maximum amount of presents possible, I do not know. Frankly, at this point, I don't care.
Baby Belle has definitely turned into Toddler-Belle, in that she has turned to the dark side. Her sweet innocent side has tasted the delight of causing trouble, and she seems to enjoy it. Right now it is fairly manageable, and a reminder about being "naughty" is enough to get her mildly upset enough to stop whatever it was she was doing. Unless of course, it means extracting her from the race car shopping cart of a grocery store on a day she did not take a nap. Then, it's all over. But really, shouldn't we know better....
So, once again, this year I ask. What comes next? What about when the threat of Santa is gone, when the soon-to-arrive Elf on the Shelf has worked his magic and headed back? December 26th is far too early to even think about the Easter Bunny. Perhaps the ghost of Martin Luther King Jr. could watch over them.... After all, wasn't he for peace? And that's what we all want out of this. Just a little peace. And quiet.
Setting: the car, of course
Baby Belle: "Stop touching me, no touching me, stop, no, no, no, no...." Amidst screams of exaggerated agony.
Naturally, this continues. And continues.
Mom: "ClaraBelle stop touching her right now" (of course this is AFTER I've used my nice, calm voice. Many times.)
Clara Belle: (without missing so much as a beat) "I just want to feel how soft her skin is".
So, we've been discussing Santa for a while now. Definitely since Thanksgiving, we may have even brought up his name a little before. We've even seen him several times, and the Belles have sat on his lap twice. The other night there was an older gentleman with a long beard, wearing an elf hat with ears. Baby Belle's eyes just about popped out of her head when she saw him and whispered "It's Santa Mommy". The girls didn't want to believe that there was an elf...a real elf in their midst. They tried to deny it, Big Belle tried to rationalize, but in the end realized it must be real. He even made his hat do a dance and jingle while on his head. It was just a regular old citizen getting in the spirit, which made it even more 'magical' for the girls. No line to wait in, no gimmick or promotion...just an elf. I think that bought us about an hour or more of pretty darn good behavior.
We've discussed the naughty and nice list. Until we're blue in the face. SOME Belles around here just don't seem to care. And by some, I mean mostly, one. Actually Big Belle has had a mini-epiphany of her own, that being good has more merits than getting into trouble. It's not to say she doesn't cause a small amount of issues around here, but no where near what she was capable of even a few weeks ago. Whether or not this has anything to do with acquiring the maximum amount of presents possible, I do not know. Frankly, at this point, I don't care.
Baby Belle has definitely turned into Toddler-Belle, in that she has turned to the dark side. Her sweet innocent side has tasted the delight of causing trouble, and she seems to enjoy it. Right now it is fairly manageable, and a reminder about being "naughty" is enough to get her mildly upset enough to stop whatever it was she was doing. Unless of course, it means extracting her from the race car shopping cart of a grocery store on a day she did not take a nap. Then, it's all over. But really, shouldn't we know better....
So, once again, this year I ask. What comes next? What about when the threat of Santa is gone, when the soon-to-arrive Elf on the Shelf has worked his magic and headed back? December 26th is far too early to even think about the Easter Bunny. Perhaps the ghost of Martin Luther King Jr. could watch over them.... After all, wasn't he for peace? And that's what we all want out of this. Just a little peace. And quiet.
Monday, November 26, 2012
Running, Man!
I haven't shared the news that Chris has completed his most recent half marathon. Placing, once again, in the top 22% in the race, and the 4th in his age group! His last 3 races of 10 miles or more he has aced 26th, new lucky number maybe? We were there to cheer him on, and are so proud!
Keepin It Real
Best buds, fur friends, pooch pals, snuggle bunnies, cuddle cousins, amigos, two peas in a pod...
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Good Timing....
How lucky am I. I am. And I'm not even being sarcastic. It's been a very long time since I've been laying in bed at night with a plethora of blog posts running through my head. What fun! It's wonderful to have other things to think about. This morning, Big Belle's school had a lovely continental breakfast for families, and of course I could take all of the Belles and attend! And then we could all walk Big Belle to her classroom. It was wonderful.
And then...after that...I spent no less than 2 HOURS cleaning. Punctuated briefly by dancing with the girls, getting out water color paints, and dressing baby dolls, we had a great morning. It will soon be lunchtime, and -- because I feel I deserve it after all -- I do believe that I will lay down and take a lovely short nap with the Belles this afternoon.
There is still a lot of housework and household projects to catch up on, but I figure if I can continue at this pace, I should definitely be caught up sometime in early 2013.
Picture posts to follow soon, I promise!
And then...after that...I spent no less than 2 HOURS cleaning. Punctuated briefly by dancing with the girls, getting out water color paints, and dressing baby dolls, we had a great morning. It will soon be lunchtime, and -- because I feel I deserve it after all -- I do believe that I will lay down and take a lovely short nap with the Belles this afternoon.
There is still a lot of housework and household projects to catch up on, but I figure if I can continue at this pace, I should definitely be caught up sometime in early 2013.
Picture posts to follow soon, I promise!
Monday, November 19, 2012
Part-Time Cynic, Full Time Mom
So, I had all of the plans in the world to write about all of the negativity enveloping me. The stress, the sadness, the realization that if truly seems too good to be true, for goodness sakes run the other way...but that was the way I would have written it if I had sat down this morning.
Now I feel a great relief off of my shoulders. I have a clean kitchen, some beautiful new holiday decorations purchased with a gift card, and spent some time outside raking leaves and enjoying a nice day. Oh, and a nap. Let's not forget my absolutely favorite past time.
Depending on who you are, you may or may not be aware of all that has transpired in the last few months, but suffice it to say I am at least relieved that a couple weeks of full blown stress is certainly the trick to lose the last few inches of belly fat left over from that 9 1/2 pound baby 2.4 years ago.
So in short, I have currently made the choice to situate myself "between careers" and with that spend some amazing time home with Clara Belle and Baby Belle (who technically really is not even close to babyhood) and then of course Big Belle when she is not in school. We made the most of our first day at home, and actually spent most of it running errands, picking out some holiday decorations, and even indulging (or at least now this has to be considered an indulgence) in a lunch at McDonald's.
I look forward to exploring this time period with the family, am so grateful for my family who continue to be extremely supportive of my decisions, and I look forward to getting back to the real us and doing things that are enjoyable and important to us all.
We look forward to our turkey -- the second year we've decided to cook it -- and are probably even going to create a fire in the outdoor firepit later that evening. I look forward to catching you up on photos and stories of events you may have missed since I was last on here, and just look forward to life. Even though I have a list a mile long of things to do around the house, for once I'm looking forward to having the opportunity to doing them -- maybe even doing them well.
Until next time -- and may that be very soon.
Now I feel a great relief off of my shoulders. I have a clean kitchen, some beautiful new holiday decorations purchased with a gift card, and spent some time outside raking leaves and enjoying a nice day. Oh, and a nap. Let's not forget my absolutely favorite past time.
Depending on who you are, you may or may not be aware of all that has transpired in the last few months, but suffice it to say I am at least relieved that a couple weeks of full blown stress is certainly the trick to lose the last few inches of belly fat left over from that 9 1/2 pound baby 2.4 years ago.
So in short, I have currently made the choice to situate myself "between careers" and with that spend some amazing time home with Clara Belle and Baby Belle (who technically really is not even close to babyhood) and then of course Big Belle when she is not in school. We made the most of our first day at home, and actually spent most of it running errands, picking out some holiday decorations, and even indulging (or at least now this has to be considered an indulgence) in a lunch at McDonald's.
I look forward to exploring this time period with the family, am so grateful for my family who continue to be extremely supportive of my decisions, and I look forward to getting back to the real us and doing things that are enjoyable and important to us all.
We look forward to our turkey -- the second year we've decided to cook it -- and are probably even going to create a fire in the outdoor firepit later that evening. I look forward to catching you up on photos and stories of events you may have missed since I was last on here, and just look forward to life. Even though I have a list a mile long of things to do around the house, for once I'm looking forward to having the opportunity to doing them -- maybe even doing them well.
Sunday, July 8, 2012
Enigma
Thoughtful and thoughtless all at the same time.
Amazing and abominable all in a day's work.
Marvelous and mischievous in as many minutes.
She's added grays to my days and wrinkles instead of dimples,
but life is more colorful and
she makes me a smarter,
happier,
successful person,
just by being her.
Thank you Clara Belle.
Well, hello!
It's been 4 long months, here's what you've missed!
A mountain trip. One of the best family vacations we've had. We've decided a mountain cabin complete with outdoor hot tub and fire pit beats the sandy beach any day. Nothing like a hike to the waterfalls and hearing cattle lowing in the cool morning air. Amazing.
Then of course there was Easter, celebrated with an egg hunt in our completed backyard. Lots of hard work -- showing off the wall I designed and built -- you're missing out on the firepit to the left, the beautiful stone patio, and just a general wonderful lot. I'm so proud of all of Chris' hard work. It looks amazing.
A quick trip to the beach. After the mountains, it was just considered 'so-so'.
Dance recital. Big Belle looked beautiful and did a great job...but 3 hours of dancing for a minute and a half of your child makes for a long drawn out evening.
Our 9th anniversary!
And of course amidst all of this we had the ending of first grade, the start of a new school for Clara Belle and Baby Belle, and a new ending and beginning of jobs for me!
Hopefully I'll be better on the updates. Plus, it's been so hot here I definitely feel that annual summer heat rant coming on, so stay tuned!
Monday, March 19, 2012
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Friday, February 24, 2012
And there you have it...
So we're working on homework with Big Belle. It's math. So far, I'm still okay. I think I'll be able to handle working with her on this for a couple of more years before I'm maxed out. And, seeing as I used to teach the curriculum she's doing this year, I have a lot of strategies I can help her with. Usually, she needs very little help, but money has not come too easy so far. So...we're talking about it at the dinner table, which all came about as she asked why the Tooth Fairy gives her friend $5 per tooth, and she only got $1. Hm. We were stumped. Chris brilliantly suggested it was because her friend had 2 brothers and was the only girl so that's why the Tooth Fairy gave her $5. An excuse like that only works because she's 6. We'll have to work on something better, but I was impressed with his quick thinking.
But back to math. We're discussing how many quarters in a dollar, check she knew that. How many dimes in a dollar, she quickly counted by tens and figured that out. How many nickels -- yup, this girl was on a roll! And pennies next -- piece of cake! I was impressed. But time to squash that pride she was feeling...because there's nothing like a mom knocking your tooth out one day and making you think extra hard the next. So I said, okay, how many pennies in (drumroll please) $2.00?????????
Oh she thought. She stumbled. She tried. But each time she kept sticking with 100. So I stepped in. Time for me to impress the family with my smarts. Time to show this daughter who has the brains at the table.
"Well, if you have 100 pennies in ONE dollar..." I perhaps said a might too smuggly...
"THEN YOU HAVE 100 PENNIES IN THE OTHER DOLLAR too!" Big Belle responded.
And darn it, if she wasn't right.
And if you look carefully, you will find my pride still laying under the table with the crumbs, waiting to be swept away. Fortunately for me, it will probably lay there for a few days. Maybe I can try to gather it up again for round two.
But back to math. We're discussing how many quarters in a dollar, check she knew that. How many dimes in a dollar, she quickly counted by tens and figured that out. How many nickels -- yup, this girl was on a roll! And pennies next -- piece of cake! I was impressed. But time to squash that pride she was feeling...because there's nothing like a mom knocking your tooth out one day and making you think extra hard the next. So I said, okay, how many pennies in (drumroll please) $2.00?????????
Oh she thought. She stumbled. She tried. But each time she kept sticking with 100. So I stepped in. Time for me to impress the family with my smarts. Time to show this daughter who has the brains at the table.
"Well, if you have 100 pennies in ONE dollar..." I perhaps said a might too smuggly...
"THEN YOU HAVE 100 PENNIES IN THE OTHER DOLLAR too!" Big Belle responded.
And darn it, if she wasn't right.
And if you look carefully, you will find my pride still laying under the table with the crumbs, waiting to be swept away. Fortunately for me, it will probably lay there for a few days. Maybe I can try to gather it up again for round two.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
That's One Way to Do It.
Big Belle's loss of teeth has not disappointed in the eventful category. Though when is losing a body part not that eventful.... The last two have had their share of drama as she let out a blood curdling scream in class when her tooth turned around backwards before pulling it out in the office...and then there was the one that fell out on Christmas Eve. Surely Santa AND the Tooth Fairy saw each other?
So this tooth was not to be outdone. The twin to the school scream and upstairs neighbor to Christmas Eve...this tooth has actually been fairly peaceful in the wiggling department. Meaning, a slight breeze wasn't sending it flipping madly about her mouth, and I wasn't being asked to wiggle it every 5 seconds. Although she declared it was impossible to eat dinner last night, and I was instructed to only give her yogurt and turkey lunchmeat for lunch today (although I snuck some Cheetos in and she didn't seem to have a problem with them).
Fast forward to today after school. Chris was home from work, it was in the mid-60s at least, sun shining. I cleaned out my car (that's another post in and of itself) and we played some Cul-de-Sac soccer. Big Belle cheats. Chris and I like to play as much as the girls, so we usually try and kick the ball a little without them (nice, huh) or hit one of the big plastic balls that we have around. So we had this big like 26" ball, very soft and light, and we were hitting and kicking it. Chris kicked it to me, and I took it and threw it at Big Belle. Being the nice mom that I am. Of course, I couldn't resist playfully bopping her in the face with it (I mentioned she cheated at soccer, right?). Don't report me anywhere. She laughed. I laughed. And then I said "And even THAT didn't make your tooth fall out?!" And then -- "Mommy, it DID make my tooth fall out!" Low and behold the bloody cavern and empty gap where the tooth once was. Speaking of the tooth...
So this tooth was not to be outdone. The twin to the school scream and upstairs neighbor to Christmas Eve...this tooth has actually been fairly peaceful in the wiggling department. Meaning, a slight breeze wasn't sending it flipping madly about her mouth, and I wasn't being asked to wiggle it every 5 seconds. Although she declared it was impossible to eat dinner last night, and I was instructed to only give her yogurt and turkey lunchmeat for lunch today (although I snuck some Cheetos in and she didn't seem to have a problem with them).
Fast forward to today after school. Chris was home from work, it was in the mid-60s at least, sun shining. I cleaned out my car (that's another post in and of itself) and we played some Cul-de-Sac soccer. Big Belle cheats. Chris and I like to play as much as the girls, so we usually try and kick the ball a little without them (nice, huh) or hit one of the big plastic balls that we have around. So we had this big like 26" ball, very soft and light, and we were hitting and kicking it. Chris kicked it to me, and I took it and threw it at Big Belle. Being the nice mom that I am. Of course, I couldn't resist playfully bopping her in the face with it (I mentioned she cheated at soccer, right?). Don't report me anywhere. She laughed. I laughed. And then I said "And even THAT didn't make your tooth fall out?!" And then -- "Mommy, it DID make my tooth fall out!" Low and behold the bloody cavern and empty gap where the tooth once was. Speaking of the tooth...
it's gone.
Much like the mysterious mouse that disappeared in June and has not been seen since, the tooth could not be found. Big Belle swears she didn't swallow it, but we searched the street everywhere. So after her bath, Belle has a whole note planned for the Tooth Fairy. Hope that Tooth Fairy is ready!
And I need to go update my resume to "tooth loosener" who knew I had such skills.
Monday, February 20, 2012
Small Celebrations
We celebrate first teeth -- coming and going. We party for goals achieved, lessons learned, and great behavior. We honor good grades and hug and kiss and snuggle and eat ice cream for a number of many other accomplishments for all of the Belles.
Clara Belle has perhaps the strongest personality of all of the Belles right now. She is dominant, yet sensitive. Observant, yet wary. Outspoken, yet shy. She is my enigma, my oxymoron, my wonder.
She thinks she is pretty amazing, and she's right! She is also realizing, she is small. We're not talking "Little People" small, but small nonetheless. It's hard to remember that she's not a little baby any more, because she is still perfectly sized, and often it is quicker to carry her somewhere than wait for her tiny legs to bring her there. She also hears it at school...as she tries to reach things, like light switches. She was very proud of herself when she could finally reach them at home, though she has to dance on the very top of her toes to do so. But all of that is okay with her...until the other kids at school start telling her "you're not growing" and "you're so little". Now she has started to have a complex about her size, and everything is in comparison to how 'big' she's getting. Poor thing.
And yet, through it all, she's blossoming. And her personality keeps blooming, not always in good ways now, but ways I know will serve her well in the future.... Ways that will probably drive us crazy for the next 14 years, but after that, we should be good. At least that's what I tell myself now.
So while I'm tempted to set money aside for her future law career, instead I will plan her 4th birthday which is just around the corner. And today, while it may only be in my mind, I will celebrate my "little" girl...my "middle" girl...because she's finally 3 feet tall. Congratulations Clara. We love you.
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Well, bless my little soul...
I do believe I may be turning southern.
Not in an eating grits kind of way. I'm too old to feel the need to try grits. Before anyone starts singing "try it, you'll like it" (thank you very much Yo Gabba Gabba) I feel the need to say: "no". Maybe I would like it. You're right. Maybe this very day I'm missing out on so much greatness in life. Who knows how fulfilled I could feel by trying grits and perhaps liking them!
And then again, maybe not.
It's no secret to me that I really don't give a rat's toenail about food. I could easily eat the same 5 things in revolution for a very long time. I have a very simple palatte, and it prefers to stay that way. I am old enough now to eat dessert instead of dinner; not clean my plate if I don't want to; have Pop whenever I want (yup, said Pop. Not so southern huh....) and I don't have to try food I don't want to try. So there.
But, back to the main point here. 9 years ago this coming week we made our way down here to check the place out. And, then moved just a few weeks later. 37+ months of pregnancies, nearly 36 months of breastfeeding, and never ending diapers later...and I'm finally getting used to the weather. And part of that means not missing the snow and cold so much.
It was about 36 and rainy here today, but the real feel was 31. We were briefly out running an errand. brrr, it was very cold. It's supposed to be 65 on Thursday, and many days there are 60 degree temperatures forecasted. I know in another month I will probably be stashing the few sweaters I've gotten out this year and putting the warm coats away. And I'm sure in another few months I will be complaining about the heat. Because, even though I may be getting used to the southern weather, I'm still a good Yankee and I'm going to complain Honestly.
The thought of living somewhere where it would take an extra 15 minutes just to get my kids dressed to go outside just sounds...tirelessly burdensome. I do love snow. I miss skiiing. The girls (think) they are dying to play in it, build snowmen, etc. The little bit we saw on our return trip home at Christmas made me question how much I "didn't" miss it.
I don't think it's so much that I'm turning southern, I think I'm accepting my place. I still feel homesick in the Fall, when the crispness of the northern air hits hard around my birthday, and the beauty and color of the leaves is unmatchable. The cider mill scent no candle can match, the pre-holiday feeling like nature's dressing room trying on the perfect ensemble.
I've found an outfit of my own and it finally fits, after 9 years of trying. My family is complete, and as we all grow and say goodbye to the few baby items that we manage to rid ourselves of each week, we look forward to new memories. Thanksgiving in shorts, summers where it's too hot to play outside, winters where it's too beautiful not to play ball in the street.
And sometime, ya'll, I think if I left, I would wonder which home I would be sick for then.
Not in an eating grits kind of way. I'm too old to feel the need to try grits. Before anyone starts singing "try it, you'll like it" (thank you very much Yo Gabba Gabba) I feel the need to say: "no". Maybe I would like it. You're right. Maybe this very day I'm missing out on so much greatness in life. Who knows how fulfilled I could feel by trying grits and perhaps liking them!
And then again, maybe not.
It's no secret to me that I really don't give a rat's toenail about food. I could easily eat the same 5 things in revolution for a very long time. I have a very simple palatte, and it prefers to stay that way. I am old enough now to eat dessert instead of dinner; not clean my plate if I don't want to; have Pop whenever I want (yup, said Pop. Not so southern huh....) and I don't have to try food I don't want to try. So there.
But, back to the main point here. 9 years ago this coming week we made our way down here to check the place out. And, then moved just a few weeks later. 37+ months of pregnancies, nearly 36 months of breastfeeding, and never ending diapers later...and I'm finally getting used to the weather. And part of that means not missing the snow and cold so much.
It was about 36 and rainy here today, but the real feel was 31. We were briefly out running an errand. brrr, it was very cold. It's supposed to be 65 on Thursday, and many days there are 60 degree temperatures forecasted. I know in another month I will probably be stashing the few sweaters I've gotten out this year and putting the warm coats away. And I'm sure in another few months I will be complaining about the heat. Because, even though I may be getting used to the southern weather, I'm still a good Yankee and I'm going to complain Honestly.
The thought of living somewhere where it would take an extra 15 minutes just to get my kids dressed to go outside just sounds...tirelessly burdensome. I do love snow. I miss skiiing. The girls (think) they are dying to play in it, build snowmen, etc. The little bit we saw on our return trip home at Christmas made me question how much I "didn't" miss it.
I don't think it's so much that I'm turning southern, I think I'm accepting my place. I still feel homesick in the Fall, when the crispness of the northern air hits hard around my birthday, and the beauty and color of the leaves is unmatchable. The cider mill scent no candle can match, the pre-holiday feeling like nature's dressing room trying on the perfect ensemble.
I've found an outfit of my own and it finally fits, after 9 years of trying. My family is complete, and as we all grow and say goodbye to the few baby items that we manage to rid ourselves of each week, we look forward to new memories. Thanksgiving in shorts, summers where it's too hot to play outside, winters where it's too beautiful not to play ball in the street.
And sometime, ya'll, I think if I left, I would wonder which home I would be sick for then.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Friday, February 10, 2012
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Nods
Forgive me if no one thinks this is cute but me. Our neighbors moved to small horse farm nearby so we visited....
Monday, February 6, 2012
HEllloooooooooooo loooo loooooloooo (that's an echo)
I KNOW! Where have I been?
Here. There. And Here. With a million posts running through my head and no motivation to do anything with them. I am tired of computers. I am unfilled with technology. I sit down, and find either too much to look at that I am overwhelmed and overloaded, or just nothing interests me.
Currently, I am obsessed with this eagle cam. It's a regular soap opera. THis is the same eagle cam I followed last year. The male eagle is the same, but the female eagle from last year was killed by a plane. He is currently courting 3 FEMALES, has been mating, and they have been working on their nest. Hopefully he will choose one to bond with and they will lay eggs one of these days. When I say I am obsessed, I truly am. The site stays up in my classroom most of the day, and on my laptop at my desk as well. Enjoy! and you're welcome.
I did find a new recipe site I am slighly intrigued with. I have even printed out some recipes of interest. However, seeing as I have not increased my interest in cooking or eating, the likelihood of these developing into a new meal is currently more on the minimal scale. But, you never know.
No one is emailing me. Probably because I am not emailing anyone. So email is boring. This morning my email inbox contained the following emails: AARP, Be Belly Fat Free, Medicare Open Enrollment, and FTD florals. Interesting. Now I get to worry about getting old, getting sick, getting rid of my belly fat, and I guess being sick enough that I need flowers! Help me.
As so many people have around the country, we have also been enjoying this delightful "winter". Most of the days are in the 60's, or higher. The days that aren't feel so much colder than they should so it takes a little more to inspire us to be outside, but we're having a lot of fun playing ball with everyone. Baby Belle LOVES being outside, and throws a tantrum whenever we head in.
I will update more later. I'm pretty sure I have some photos/videos on my phone to dump on you. I hope I will feel inspired and will be blogging more frequently!
'Till next time!
Here. There. And Here. With a million posts running through my head and no motivation to do anything with them. I am tired of computers. I am unfilled with technology. I sit down, and find either too much to look at that I am overwhelmed and overloaded, or just nothing interests me.
Currently, I am obsessed with this eagle cam. It's a regular soap opera. THis is the same eagle cam I followed last year. The male eagle is the same, but the female eagle from last year was killed by a plane. He is currently courting 3 FEMALES, has been mating, and they have been working on their nest. Hopefully he will choose one to bond with and they will lay eggs one of these days. When I say I am obsessed, I truly am. The site stays up in my classroom most of the day, and on my laptop at my desk as well. Enjoy! and you're welcome.
I did find a new recipe site I am slighly intrigued with. I have even printed out some recipes of interest. However, seeing as I have not increased my interest in cooking or eating, the likelihood of these developing into a new meal is currently more on the minimal scale. But, you never know.
No one is emailing me. Probably because I am not emailing anyone. So email is boring. This morning my email inbox contained the following emails: AARP, Be Belly Fat Free, Medicare Open Enrollment, and FTD florals. Interesting. Now I get to worry about getting old, getting sick, getting rid of my belly fat, and I guess being sick enough that I need flowers! Help me.
As so many people have around the country, we have also been enjoying this delightful "winter". Most of the days are in the 60's, or higher. The days that aren't feel so much colder than they should so it takes a little more to inspire us to be outside, but we're having a lot of fun playing ball with everyone. Baby Belle LOVES being outside, and throws a tantrum whenever we head in.
I will update more later. I'm pretty sure I have some photos/videos on my phone to dump on you. I hope I will feel inspired and will be blogging more frequently!
'Till next time!
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
The Eyes Have It
So, after months of debate, I am adding to my "I will never list" (which one of these days I should share with you...though after "I will never have more than one child", I've sort of lost track of all of them). I have now added "I will never put something purposefully into my eye". Yesterday I became a contact lens wearer. Well, at least I am today, and I was for about 6 hours yesterday. We shall see if this will be something that will become a part of my lifestyle, or if I should've stuck with the gut instinct on the "I will never" list...which so often happens. So very, very often.
After my initial eye appointment, and the doctor putting the contacts in my eye, I thought 'hey, this isn't so bad'. They were not initially uncomfortable, it felt strange but enlightening to be able to see so clearly and yet not have frames obstructing my peripheral vision and weighing me down. I had mentally prepared myself for a challenge when I knew I then had to go have lessons about taking them out and putting them in, and I was prepared.
Hands washed and body properly positioned in the chair, I took the objects out of my eye and then after further procedural direction put them back in. Bim bam boom, I was a natural -- the office assistant said most people do it more slowly, but I was doing it quickly and I got it. I felt proud, elated. I was the Contact Valedictorian. I was an over achiever, a quick learner, an obvious eye-installing genious. I was sent on my way with written directions and the directions of all of the horrendous eye infections you could get if you don't follow the directions.
I called Chris on the way home, and he asked if I even got contacts, because I was done so quickly. "Yes, of course. Evidently I was so perfect I was sent on my way. I'll be home soon! You are so very lucky to have someone so wonderful as me, I know how excited you must be to see me." Of course, I may be paraphrasing the actual conversation a little.
So, fast forward 5 or so hours, when it's time to get ready for bed. Chris washes his hands, removes his contacts in movements so deliberate and yet so natural I know them by heart just by watching him. I follow suit and carefully scrub down, the various pictures of possible infectants wild in my mind. And then ever so confident and basking in the glory of my gold medal achievement from the doctor's office, I proceed to demonstrate my skills.
Success! First contact down, I felt like cheering. Pride shining from me like a cartoon angel.
Fast forward 15 minutes...and contact number two still will not leave its cozy home. My eyeball. I guess I exceed at that too. My eyeball is such an exceptional place to be, it will not come out. Bringing in reinforcements, Chris even tries. No luck. My eye itself is beginning to feel like it jumped off of my face and ran a mile on hot sand. And I can't help but slightly panic -- will I have to go to the emergency room and get this removed? Finally, after another 10 minutes I change venues and remove myself (and my family's entertainment) to the solitude of the other bathroom, and lock the door. Thankfully, it only took a few more tries and out it came. Feeling a little less stellar than before, I slink away defeated.
Fast forward to this morning. After 15 minutes, Chris -- dying to get his hands on my eyeball again -- generously offers his skilled hands at depositing the device in my eye. I decline. I must do it!
Let's just say that my natural talent still needs a little more nurturing, and until I am up on my A game again, it looks like I will be getting up at least 15 minutes early, all so I can see, and vainly look what I consider better doing so. Vanity 0 Karma 1...Best 2 out of 3, results to be continued....
After my initial eye appointment, and the doctor putting the contacts in my eye, I thought 'hey, this isn't so bad'. They were not initially uncomfortable, it felt strange but enlightening to be able to see so clearly and yet not have frames obstructing my peripheral vision and weighing me down. I had mentally prepared myself for a challenge when I knew I then had to go have lessons about taking them out and putting them in, and I was prepared.
Hands washed and body properly positioned in the chair, I took the objects out of my eye and then after further procedural direction put them back in. Bim bam boom, I was a natural -- the office assistant said most people do it more slowly, but I was doing it quickly and I got it. I felt proud, elated. I was the Contact Valedictorian. I was an over achiever, a quick learner, an obvious eye-installing genious. I was sent on my way with written directions and the directions of all of the horrendous eye infections you could get if you don't follow the directions.
I called Chris on the way home, and he asked if I even got contacts, because I was done so quickly. "Yes, of course. Evidently I was so perfect I was sent on my way. I'll be home soon! You are so very lucky to have someone so wonderful as me, I know how excited you must be to see me." Of course, I may be paraphrasing the actual conversation a little.
So, fast forward 5 or so hours, when it's time to get ready for bed. Chris washes his hands, removes his contacts in movements so deliberate and yet so natural I know them by heart just by watching him. I follow suit and carefully scrub down, the various pictures of possible infectants wild in my mind. And then ever so confident and basking in the glory of my gold medal achievement from the doctor's office, I proceed to demonstrate my skills.
Success! First contact down, I felt like cheering. Pride shining from me like a cartoon angel.
Fast forward 15 minutes...and contact number two still will not leave its cozy home. My eyeball. I guess I exceed at that too. My eyeball is such an exceptional place to be, it will not come out. Bringing in reinforcements, Chris even tries. No luck. My eye itself is beginning to feel like it jumped off of my face and ran a mile on hot sand. And I can't help but slightly panic -- will I have to go to the emergency room and get this removed? Finally, after another 10 minutes I change venues and remove myself (and my family's entertainment) to the solitude of the other bathroom, and lock the door. Thankfully, it only took a few more tries and out it came. Feeling a little less stellar than before, I slink away defeated.
Fast forward to this morning. After 15 minutes, Chris -- dying to get his hands on my eyeball again -- generously offers his skilled hands at depositing the device in my eye. I decline. I must do it!
Let's just say that my natural talent still needs a little more nurturing, and until I am up on my A game again, it looks like I will be getting up at least 15 minutes early, all so I can see, and vainly look what I consider better doing so. Vanity 0 Karma 1...Best 2 out of 3, results to be continued....
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Portrait
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Bad Words
I remember in Middle School, that was really when all of the kids started swearing. Especially the boys. It's still that way now, talking to old students who are in middle school now, they're amazed at the transformation of seemingly perfect youngsters turned into foul mouthed beings just over the summer.
I am not one of those people. I'm not saying I'm perfect, but I'm not Andrew Dice Clay either.
So, when one of the Belles comes running to me and says the other one said the "s" word, I paused for thought. After further investigation, it turns out that the offender -- one 3 1/2 year old Belle -- did indeed utter the "S" word.
I am not one of those people. I'm not saying I'm perfect, but I'm not Andrew Dice Clay either.
So, when one of the Belles comes running to me and says the other one said the "s" word, I paused for thought. After further investigation, it turns out that the offender -- one 3 1/2 year old Belle -- did indeed utter the "S" word.
"STUPID"
I honestly don't remember that ever being a "word" when I was young. It just kind of blended into childhood. I have no idea who said it, when/why, if anyone got in trouble. I could be wrong, maybe I'm just not remembering correctly, but somehow this word has become taboo. Now don't get me wrong, I don't want my children to run around the world calling each other, other children, or any thing stupid. But that's more for the fear of what someone will think of them using the 's' word. And so, I have to join in. It's parental peer pressure -- of which there is A LOT of might I add.
But, of course, being 3 1/2 and being one of "those" children (see previous post) being told NOT to say a word is indeed direct license to make it into a song using any and every tune you know, and to utter it in constant succession every time you remember. And, just to make things even spicier -- because that, after all, is your trademark in life -- you add the other "s" word.
You know.
"Shut up". I'm fairly certain she came by this one honestly, I think I may have yelled this in a motherly fit of rage....
So, again, with the fear that she will shout the words while stamping her feet, frowning and running around like a crazed wildebeest whilst I try and spend 5 minutes looking at something and some other mother will judge me, my family, my friends and any one I've ever come into contact with as heathens, I must put a stop to the "s" words.
And if I fail, well, there's nothing to say to myself but you just need to 'shut up, stupid'.
Monday, January 9, 2012
Labels
I have one of those children.
No, I mean, one of "those" children.
The one where you might roll your eyes in a store and say to yourself "if she were my child..." or "I'd never let my child do/say/act that way". I know. I completely understand. I've been there. Said that.
Pity me.
And don't judge. If you haven't had a kid like that yet, you haven't had enough kids. For every pat on the back you give yourself, you have to take credit for 'the ones that got away' too. Including the ones running down the aisles, in between the clothing racks, and otherwise disrupting others' lives.
I know she can be a handful and a half. I fully realize we should not be surprised if she comes home with multiple piercings in strange places, or dresses in black, or some other obnoxious fad of the day.
We completely understand that she can be trouble and a half, she talks back, stamps her feet, refuses to do things. Some of that I blame on still being 3. Sometimes I wonder if it could be because, while she's 3 1/2 she's the size of most 2 year olds. She has to act tough. I try and find reasons. Reasons for her to find the weak people and basically drive them up the wall, because she knows it bothers them.
We know.
But we also know how wonderful she can be. And that she's learning how to express her love. And that, deep down inside, she really does want to be good. She talks about it daily. She tries.
You can tell me she acts out and is 'rebellious' all day long. I know. I understand. It's what I love as much as what I hate. She rebels. I get it. She doesn't fit into the mold of our expectations and desires of teachers. I get it. But if you can just TRY to understand a little more. If you can just TRY not to act like she has ruined every moment of your day, if you can just TRY to work with me as I try to work with you, then we all might be a lot happier. Because, this child of mine, well -- she's my child. And for all her faults, every bit of them make her the exciting, interesting, fascinating, hysterical, smart person that she is.
Monday, January 2, 2012
Impromptu
Not bad for an unplanned photo shoot (I felt the need to mention that lest you judge my choice in outfits for the girls). Just think what great photos we could have if they had nice looking coordinating outfits.
Day 2 of the New Year. As much as I am not looking forward to returning to the life of a working mom -- ugh, makes me cringe just saying it -- I think we need a little space....
It might not look at it here...but just trust me, I'm gathering some good material.
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)