HAPPY NEW YEARS EVE! We are heading out the door in a little bit to attend a birthday party until midnight. We'll see how long we really last. Being on the roads is not my favorite activity to do on a day like this, although I am trusting that common sense has become more common in 2008.
BE SAFE! HAVE FUN! Whether you are home alone on the couch tonight, sitting with someone you love, partying like no tomorrow, or on vacation, enjoy every minute of it! 2009 will be a great year!
--------------------------------------
SAPPY WARNING!!! STICKY, SAPPY WORDS AHEAD... WATCH OUT!
Yesterday, I got about 50 love letters written from my grandfather to my grandmother. They brought a new prospective to life for me. My grandfather passed away on December 24, 1942, a few months before my dad was born. My dad never met his dad. To read the love letters from my grandfather to my grandmother dated 1931-1942 is a bit surreal.
I bring this up to remind you (and remind myself) to love more, care more, and do it in an obvious way. Put it in a letter, take a photo hugging the ones you love, turn on the video camera. These things sound goofy in the moment, but mean so much down the road.
My New Years Resolution... CONNECTIONS. To have stronger connections, reconnect lost bonds, and hold on tight to the connections that mean the most.
I told ya I was sappy tonight. Hey, I love my family, I love my friends... what can I say?!
HAPPY 2009 EVERYONE!
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
A HUUUUUGE STEP!
We had a busy day with plenty of pictures, BUT today's biggest news... KEVIN ATE PASTA FOR THE FIRST TIME! Yes, he is nearly 3 1/2 and I am happy that he ate pasta!!! This is a huge step for him. He lives off of liquids, and some other basic foods, which makes him tiny for his age, and his BMI (Body Mass Index) too low to show.
He only ate about a full string of spaghetti, but he did it totally on his own. It was gobbed with tomato sauce, which is a good thing too. He has NEVER (I said NEVER) swallowed a fruit or vegetable in his entire life. As I said, he pretty much lives off of basic foods, and liquids. He was shaking as he was eating the strand of spaghetti, but he got it down for the first time.
His pediatrician will be sooooo happy to hear this news since he has been diagnosed with "oral aversions". Just yesterday we received his referral for OT. Speaking of happy, you should have seen all of us at the table. You would have thought he was having another birthday by the way we were praising him, even Juliana was in complete shock. Whooo hooo!
What a great way to end 2008! It seems odd, ok VERY odd, to be so excited about my son eating pasta, but I am. Did I say, YAYYYY?!!?
He only ate about a full string of spaghetti, but he did it totally on his own. It was gobbed with tomato sauce, which is a good thing too. He has NEVER (I said NEVER) swallowed a fruit or vegetable in his entire life. As I said, he pretty much lives off of basic foods, and liquids. He was shaking as he was eating the strand of spaghetti, but he got it down for the first time.
His pediatrician will be sooooo happy to hear this news since he has been diagnosed with "oral aversions". Just yesterday we received his referral for OT. Speaking of happy, you should have seen all of us at the table. You would have thought he was having another birthday by the way we were praising him, even Juliana was in complete shock. Whooo hooo!
What a great way to end 2008! It seems odd, ok VERY odd, to be so excited about my son eating pasta, but I am. Did I say, YAYYYY?!!?
Monday, December 29, 2008
Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives
Guy Fieri would be proud of us! Tonight we went to eat at one of his "Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives". It was yummy for my tummy!!! The burgers were absolutely amazing! Juliana loved to watch the beef be sliced right in the butchers window. I kinda thought it was nasty, but she thought it was super cool.
She asked me, "How long does he have to go to college to cut a cow like that? .... 8 or 10 years, right? Just like a doctor?"
"Yup, you're right kiddo. He is like a doctor or an artist for meat."
"I wanna cut cows when I get older... but what is that red stuff all over the place?"
"That's blood."
"Ewwwwwww, I don't wanna be that anymore!!!"
Phew, thank goodness my daughter doesn't wanna be a butcher.
I am sure all of you vegetarians, reformed veggies, or plain ol' carnivores are totally disgusted. Ehhhh, it wasn't that bad, it was actually a good feeling to know the meat we were eating was fresh, and very yummy too.
(We began the afternoon watching the sea lions at Pier 39 and watching jellyfish swims around the pier too. Oh, and did I mention the monstrous starfish that was clinging to the wall beneath us? Whoaaa, that was huge!)
She asked me, "How long does he have to go to college to cut a cow like that? .... 8 or 10 years, right? Just like a doctor?"
"Yup, you're right kiddo. He is like a doctor or an artist for meat."
"I wanna cut cows when I get older... but what is that red stuff all over the place?"
"That's blood."
"Ewwwwwww, I don't wanna be that anymore!!!"
Phew, thank goodness my daughter doesn't wanna be a butcher.
I am sure all of you vegetarians, reformed veggies, or plain ol' carnivores are totally disgusted. Ehhhh, it wasn't that bad, it was actually a good feeling to know the meat we were eating was fresh, and very yummy too.
(We began the afternoon watching the sea lions at Pier 39 and watching jellyfish swims around the pier too. Oh, and did I mention the monstrous starfish that was clinging to the wall beneath us? Whoaaa, that was huge!)
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Dec. 26 adventure
Yesterday's adventure was so much fun! We headed to Point Reyes, simply so we could get out of the house, do something that didn't require spending money (except gas), and do something different. Jason had never been there. Sooo, we headed up the road to the lighthouse. Once we found a parking space, we walked the 1/2 mile to the view of the lighthouse, then we look down. Yikes, there are countless stairs. All four of us headed down the stairs to catch a view of the lighthouse. Jason and Kevin turned around about 1/3 of the way down. I think Jason was anticipating having to carry Kevin all the way back up, which is why they turned around. Juliana and I went to the bottom, enjoyed the views, looked for whales, dolphins, seals, anything... then we headed back up the stairs. When we reached the top of the stairs, I noticed a sign that I wished I noticed BEFORE we took the first step. The sign said something like this, "WARNING: WALKING THESE STEPS IS EQUIVALENT TO CLIMBING A 30 STORY BUILDING!" I suppose that was payback for not going to the gym.
After catching our breath, we headed back down the long road to the car, and headed to the beach. Once again, it was gorgeous! We just wrote our names in the sand, ran around, and looked for crabs.
We took Highway 1 all the way back. We passed through some beautiful places. That was our day-after-Christmas adventure. On to our next one.
After catching our breath, we headed back down the long road to the car, and headed to the beach. Once again, it was gorgeous! We just wrote our names in the sand, ran around, and looked for crabs.
We took Highway 1 all the way back. We passed through some beautiful places. That was our day-after-Christmas adventure. On to our next one.
Friday, December 26, 2008
Christmas... our way
Christmas is over. Bummer! Christmas is my favorite holiday of the year! Rarely is it a day full of fireworks, but I guess we create our own holiday excitement, which makes it worth looking forward to each year.
This year was no exception. We enjoyed each other as a family of four for two days. No visitors (except from Nana and Grampy on SKYPE when they watched us open gifts from 3000 miles away), no traveling, no parties, no obligations, just playing Santa, playing games, opening toys, baking, and eating too. A perfect Christmas for us!
Who knows what we will be doing for the rest of 2008. I am sure we will come up with something blog worthy. We'll see. Until then, enjoy these photos of our Christmas.
(Yes, I erased the last post. No reason, I just thought it was bloggy Christmas clutter.)
This year was no exception. We enjoyed each other as a family of four for two days. No visitors (except from Nana and Grampy on SKYPE when they watched us open gifts from 3000 miles away), no traveling, no parties, no obligations, just playing Santa, playing games, opening toys, baking, and eating too. A perfect Christmas for us!
Who knows what we will be doing for the rest of 2008. I am sure we will come up with something blog worthy. We'll see. Until then, enjoy these photos of our Christmas.
(Yes, I erased the last post. No reason, I just thought it was bloggy Christmas clutter.)
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
To the North Pole
Dear Santa,
I have been pretty good all year. I've had my moments when I yelled at the kids, or maybe had too many martinis, but I really want you to come to my house tonight. There are two little munchkins that are holding out hope that they have impressed you too.
I got a stern reminder recently from someone that reminded me that Christmas is not about a jolly fat man putting presents under the Christmas tree. I know, I know. To that, I say POO POO! I couldn't think of anything more mature to say, even under my breath. Oops, maybe that was not such a nice thing to say or to even to think. I'm sorry, sooooo so soooo sorry. Will you still come to my house?
I may need some help being a better role model for the munchkins about what Christmas really means. I'll work on that. Until I can nail that down, I'll keep having you in my heart all year long, and Christmas music as CD 5 all year long too.
Love,
your biggest fan
I have been pretty good all year. I've had my moments when I yelled at the kids, or maybe had too many martinis, but I really want you to come to my house tonight. There are two little munchkins that are holding out hope that they have impressed you too.
I got a stern reminder recently from someone that reminded me that Christmas is not about a jolly fat man putting presents under the Christmas tree. I know, I know. To that, I say POO POO! I couldn't think of anything more mature to say, even under my breath. Oops, maybe that was not such a nice thing to say or to even to think. I'm sorry, sooooo so soooo sorry. Will you still come to my house?
I may need some help being a better role model for the munchkins about what Christmas really means. I'll work on that. Until I can nail that down, I'll keep having you in my heart all year long, and Christmas music as CD 5 all year long too.
Love,
your biggest fan
Monday, December 22, 2008
Mr. and Mrs. Claus
What are your middle names?
Haaaaa, nice try! His middle name is Christian.
How long have you been together?
Since 1996. That would be 12 1/2 years.
How long did you know each other before you started dating?
We met in Nov. 1995. Soooo, about 8 months.
Who asked who out?
We didn't. Just kinda happened.
How old are each of you?
In our 30's.
How tall are each of you?
I'm 5'6ish and he's 5'10" I think.
Whose siblings do/did you see the most?
Probably mine, although it's a toss up. It doesn't help that his brother is 3000 miles away.
Do you have any children together?
Two crazzzzzzy munchkins and one on the way.... haaa, gotcha! Kidding y'all, kidding!
What about pets?
We used to have fish that we really bonded to. We had Fred, Derf, Pearl, Opal, Hoover, Plecko, Shadow (yikes, that is our doggy too), Bob, Bob Jr. and soooo many more. Then we had our wiener doggy Slinky, and now our lab Shadow.
Did you go to the same school?
Never.
Are you from the same hometown?
He's from NJ/MA and I'm a California girl.
Who is the smartest?
We both have our moments where the light blub flickers on and off.
Who is the most sensitive?
MEEEEEE!
Where do you eat out most as a couple?
Huh??? We go to different places.
Where is the furthest you two have traveled together as a couple?
Hawaii.
Who has the most friends?
Me. Although back in the day he had more than he knew what to do with.
Who has the craziest exes?
I'm not sure he had crazy exes, although I've heard some pretty funny stories. As for me, I don't really have exes. Before Jason I dated, but never gave anyone the title (or the time) of a boyfriend. Hey, Jason and I met when I was 18, what can I say.
Who has the worst temper?
I guess he does.
Who does/did the cooking?
I DO! He does a decent job when he is left alone in the kitchen though.
Who is more social?
Both of us. We can both be shy, although both of us can't shut up either.
Who is the neat-freak?
NEAT FREAKS DO NOT EXIST IN OUR HOUSEHOLD! EVEN OUR CHILDREN! We aren't dirty people, just messy and packrats.
Who is the most affectionate?
Jason, without a doubt!
Who hogs the bed?
ME!
Who wakes up earlier?
His alarm goes off to wake... ME UP! What is wrong with that picture?
Where was your first date?
in the car. HAAAAAA! It was too late to go anywhere. We went to a friends house to hang out for a little bit, then left around midnight to go on a car ride. Romantic, huh? Haaaa!
Who has the bigger family?
That's tough. I'd say he does. His dad comes from a family of 8, wait maybe 6 siblings, and TONS of cousins, 2nd cousins. My family is just complicated.
How do you spend the holidays?
Christmas Eve until Christmas Day at noon we are in lockdown at home.
Who is more jealous?
Neither one of us.
Do you have little pet names for each other?
Kinda. He calls me Lovebug (Bug).
How long did it take to get serious?
About a year. My definition of serious may be different than yours.
Who eats more?
he does
Who sings better?
LA LAAAAAA LA LA LAAAA.. how'd I do?!
Who’s older?
He is 6 months, 1 day older.
Who does/did the laundry?
Braaaaahhhhhh haaaaaaaaaaaaaa! Let me catch my breath from laughing....
Who does/did the dishes?
Mostly me.
Who snores?
Neither.
Who’s better with the computer?
He's a computer geek sometimes.
Who drives when you are together?
Depends.
Who picks where you go to dinner?
He forces me hog tied to go places. :)
Who is the first one to admit when they’re wrong?
Me. Although he will apologize first. I hate apologizing.
Who kissed who first?
He did.
Who wears the pants in the relationship?
He does.
Who has more tattoos?
We both are covered. We lost count! I'll send a picture of our most recent drunken tattoo stunt... it's not pretty! (Kidding blogland, we both have ZERO. I'm TOO MUCH OF A WIMP!)
Who eats more sweets?
me.
Who cries more?
meeeeeee.
Who has bigger dreams?
He does.
Are you two still a couple?
Ummm yeah. Isn't that why I filled this out?!
Haaaaa, nice try! His middle name is Christian.
How long have you been together?
Since 1996. That would be 12 1/2 years.
How long did you know each other before you started dating?
We met in Nov. 1995. Soooo, about 8 months.
Who asked who out?
We didn't. Just kinda happened.
How old are each of you?
In our 30's.
How tall are each of you?
I'm 5'6ish and he's 5'10" I think.
Whose siblings do/did you see the most?
Probably mine, although it's a toss up. It doesn't help that his brother is 3000 miles away.
Do you have any children together?
Two crazzzzzzy munchkins and one on the way.... haaa, gotcha! Kidding y'all, kidding!
What about pets?
We used to have fish that we really bonded to. We had Fred, Derf, Pearl, Opal, Hoover, Plecko, Shadow (yikes, that is our doggy too), Bob, Bob Jr. and soooo many more. Then we had our wiener doggy Slinky, and now our lab Shadow.
Did you go to the same school?
Never.
Are you from the same hometown?
He's from NJ/MA and I'm a California girl.
Who is the smartest?
We both have our moments where the light blub flickers on and off.
Who is the most sensitive?
MEEEEEE!
Where do you eat out most as a couple?
Huh??? We go to different places.
Where is the furthest you two have traveled together as a couple?
Hawaii.
Who has the most friends?
Me. Although back in the day he had more than he knew what to do with.
Who has the craziest exes?
I'm not sure he had crazy exes, although I've heard some pretty funny stories. As for me, I don't really have exes. Before Jason I dated, but never gave anyone the title (or the time) of a boyfriend. Hey, Jason and I met when I was 18, what can I say.
Who has the worst temper?
I guess he does.
Who does/did the cooking?
I DO! He does a decent job when he is left alone in the kitchen though.
Who is more social?
Both of us. We can both be shy, although both of us can't shut up either.
Who is the neat-freak?
NEAT FREAKS DO NOT EXIST IN OUR HOUSEHOLD! EVEN OUR CHILDREN! We aren't dirty people, just messy and packrats.
Who is the most affectionate?
Jason, without a doubt!
Who hogs the bed?
ME!
Who wakes up earlier?
His alarm goes off to wake... ME UP! What is wrong with that picture?
Where was your first date?
in the car. HAAAAAA! It was too late to go anywhere. We went to a friends house to hang out for a little bit, then left around midnight to go on a car ride. Romantic, huh? Haaaa!
Who has the bigger family?
That's tough. I'd say he does. His dad comes from a family of 8, wait maybe 6 siblings, and TONS of cousins, 2nd cousins. My family is just complicated.
How do you spend the holidays?
Christmas Eve until Christmas Day at noon we are in lockdown at home.
Who is more jealous?
Neither one of us.
Do you have little pet names for each other?
Kinda. He calls me Lovebug (Bug).
How long did it take to get serious?
About a year. My definition of serious may be different than yours.
Who eats more?
he does
Who sings better?
LA LAAAAAA LA LA LAAAA.. how'd I do?!
Who’s older?
He is 6 months, 1 day older.
Who does/did the laundry?
Braaaaahhhhhh haaaaaaaaaaaaaa! Let me catch my breath from laughing....
Who does/did the dishes?
Mostly me.
Who snores?
Neither.
Who’s better with the computer?
He's a computer geek sometimes.
Who drives when you are together?
Depends.
Who picks where you go to dinner?
He forces me hog tied to go places. :)
Who is the first one to admit when they’re wrong?
Me. Although he will apologize first. I hate apologizing.
Who kissed who first?
He did.
Who wears the pants in the relationship?
He does.
Who has more tattoos?
We both are covered. We lost count! I'll send a picture of our most recent drunken tattoo stunt... it's not pretty! (Kidding blogland, we both have ZERO. I'm TOO MUCH OF A WIMP!)
Who eats more sweets?
me.
Who cries more?
meeeeeee.
Who has bigger dreams?
He does.
Are you two still a couple?
Ummm yeah. Isn't that why I filled this out?!
Friday, December 19, 2008
STORMS... BE CAREFUL!
All of you that will be in the big storm, BE CAREFUL... and I'm soooo jealous! If I have my way, we'll end up back in the snowy mess one day. Jason is quite content in areas where weather forcasters are just a formality.
Enjoy your last day of work if today if you are lucky enough to have a "WINTER BREAK". I know a few of you will be driving long distances in the snow or flying somewhere for the holidays, so just in case you care, I am a nervous wreck worrying about you guys. Ok, so I am not your mother, but geeze, I worry about ya, that's all.
That's all for the moment. Off to be a mommy and get my two angels up for the day.
Enjoy your last day of work if today if you are lucky enough to have a "WINTER BREAK". I know a few of you will be driving long distances in the snow or flying somewhere for the holidays, so just in case you care, I am a nervous wreck worrying about you guys. Ok, so I am not your mother, but geeze, I worry about ya, that's all.
That's all for the moment. Off to be a mommy and get my two angels up for the day.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
EIGHT, 8, ate (oops)
'Cause I want to, that's why....
8 Favorite Restaurants:
1. It's a mood thing. J. Alexanders (in Michigan)
2. Brick Alley Pub (Newport, RI)
3. McDonalds (hey, why not?)
4. Grumpy's (Bellingham, MA)
5. Cheesecake Factory
6. Olive Garden
7. La Pinata (yumm)
8. Berkshire Grill (don't think they exist anymore)
8 Things that Happened Today:
1. started this time waster.
2. Woke up a million times, but was so warm and cozy.
3. drove to an empty mall.
4. got annoyed about not finding anywhere to personalize an ornament for less than the ornament itself.
5. Listened to Kevin tell me over and over, "no get dressed. I like pj's!"
6. Read e-mails.
7. went to post office to send off thank you's from Juliana's birthday. She still has a lot to do though.
8. and now, watching Kevin get cozy in the stuffed animal bin while watching Mickey Mouse. Cutest thing EVER!
8 Things I Look Forward To:
1. Friday night when Jason begins his end-of-the-year vacation.
2. Christmas magic in the eyes of the kids.
3. Santa
4. any vacation!
5. girls night out!!!! (hint hint)
6. Babies.
7. belly laughs from the kids.
8. an occasional adult drink or two.
8 Things I'm Scared Of:
1. Falling.
2. Failing.
3. Anything with more than 4 legs.
4. The dark. (SHUT UP, STOP LAUGHING)
5. Death.
6. Religion.
7. Politics.
8. Crazy drivers.
8 Things I Wish For:
1. Peace. (la la la, I hear the sappy music playing)
2. Happy children.
3. My own home.
4. For everyone to smile.
5. A maid.
6. No anxiety about things out of my control! (Ooooo, I like this one!)
7. A week long girls vacation.
8. A week long hubby and me vacation. (I think I need a vacation!)
8 Things I Watch on TV:
1. OPRAH
2. Dr. Phil (Yes, I know, I am the only one on the planet that watches him.)
3. Two and a Half Men
4. Extreme Makeover: Home Edition
5. Any (nighttime) Food Network show.
6. The View ( I am really digging myself a hole here)
7. on the same topic, any Barbara Walters Special.
8. Big Brother
8 Favorite Restaurants:
1. It's a mood thing. J. Alexanders (in Michigan)
2. Brick Alley Pub (Newport, RI)
3. McDonalds (hey, why not?)
4. Grumpy's (Bellingham, MA)
5. Cheesecake Factory
6. Olive Garden
7. La Pinata (yumm)
8. Berkshire Grill (don't think they exist anymore)
8 Things that Happened Today:
1. started this time waster.
2. Woke up a million times, but was so warm and cozy.
3. drove to an empty mall.
4. got annoyed about not finding anywhere to personalize an ornament for less than the ornament itself.
5. Listened to Kevin tell me over and over, "no get dressed. I like pj's!"
6. Read e-mails.
7. went to post office to send off thank you's from Juliana's birthday. She still has a lot to do though.
8. and now, watching Kevin get cozy in the stuffed animal bin while watching Mickey Mouse. Cutest thing EVER!
8 Things I Look Forward To:
1. Friday night when Jason begins his end-of-the-year vacation.
2. Christmas magic in the eyes of the kids.
3. Santa
4. any vacation!
5. girls night out!!!! (hint hint)
6. Babies.
7. belly laughs from the kids.
8. an occasional adult drink or two.
8 Things I'm Scared Of:
1. Falling.
2. Failing.
3. Anything with more than 4 legs.
4. The dark. (SHUT UP, STOP LAUGHING)
5. Death.
6. Religion.
7. Politics.
8. Crazy drivers.
8 Things I Wish For:
1. Peace. (la la la, I hear the sappy music playing)
2. Happy children.
3. My own home.
4. For everyone to smile.
5. A maid.
6. No anxiety about things out of my control! (Ooooo, I like this one!)
7. A week long girls vacation.
8. A week long hubby and me vacation. (I think I need a vacation!)
8 Things I Watch on TV:
1. OPRAH
2. Dr. Phil (Yes, I know, I am the only one on the planet that watches him.)
3. Two and a Half Men
4. Extreme Makeover: Home Edition
5. Any (nighttime) Food Network show.
6. The View ( I am really digging myself a hole here)
7. on the same topic, any Barbara Walters Special.
8. Big Brother
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
To shop, or not to shop?
9 MORE DAYS... have I started shopping? Noooooooooo. Is it driving me nuts???? Yeah, but I get in these emotional ruts here and there, and I think that shopping is so silly considering the economy, those that are less fortunate, those that are stuck in hospitals, or those that are simply not loving the holidays for different reasons. Then I come out of it and want to run to the nearest mall. I have not gone to any malls or gone crazy online, I'm stuck somewhere in between. This year will be modest I suppose. I do enjoy shopping for friends and family, so who knows what I will end up doing. I just know that I have 9 days until Christmas, so actually 7 days until our family is in lockdown. No traveling from Christmas Eve until Christmas morning. Just an unwritten rule I created for our family. I always hated going from my mom's house, to my step-grandparents, back to my mom's, then to my dad's, then to my aunt, then to my grandma.... all from Christmas Eve to Christmas Day.
I hear rain pouring right now. The darkness outside is making me think I have more time until the kids get up. Nope. Time to get ready for school.
I hear rain pouring right now. The darkness outside is making me think I have more time until the kids get up. Nope. Time to get ready for school.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Blizzard + Kids = Whooo hooo!
Jason left this morning for a 3 day work project... SOOOOOOOOOO, what are the kids and I gonna do on a sunday? Drive in near blizzard like conditions to Lake Tahoe of course. Yup, that's what we did! I didn't check the weather first. I just grabbed winter gear, and got into the car. Once we reached about 1500 ft up the mountain, white stuff was flying. Once we reached 2500 ft, we were greeted by the chain installers. Luckily I did not need their assistance. I found their bright orange astronaut suits to be quite sexy though... along with their shaggy beards, probably bad breath, and gray hair. Ooooo la la.... OR NOT!
We made it almost to the summit (approx. 8000 ft) and went to an open area with many other sledding children, snowmen making families, etc. Juliana and Kevin had a blast throwing the snow, catching it on their tongues, and building snow mountains too. WHAT A BLAST... frigid, but fun! My camera gave out on me after about 20 pictures. Bummer, but I did get some cute photos.
After about 40 minutes of freezing fun, we got back in the car to head down the mountain. The accumulation was starting to get scary, and the roads were obviously getting worse and worse by the minute. Somehow I did just fine driving. I wasn't too scared of the driving, I was too focused on the whiteout conditions.
We are warm and cozy at home now. If I knew how to light a fire without burning the house down, I'd be doing that right now. Stay warm everyone!
We made it almost to the summit (approx. 8000 ft) and went to an open area with many other sledding children, snowmen making families, etc. Juliana and Kevin had a blast throwing the snow, catching it on their tongues, and building snow mountains too. WHAT A BLAST... frigid, but fun! My camera gave out on me after about 20 pictures. Bummer, but I did get some cute photos.
After about 40 minutes of freezing fun, we got back in the car to head down the mountain. The accumulation was starting to get scary, and the roads were obviously getting worse and worse by the minute. Somehow I did just fine driving. I wasn't too scared of the driving, I was too focused on the whiteout conditions.
We are warm and cozy at home now. If I knew how to light a fire without burning the house down, I'd be doing that right now. Stay warm everyone!
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Party time!
I went to the gym today! Too bad it was to eat pizza and cake!!!! I usually feel like a tub-o when I am in that place, but today I felt like beached whale. Ehhh, I guess it was worth it.
Today was Juliana's birthday party. The kids went rock climbing, then played on a jumpy thingy for the two hour party. So much fun! I took about 100 pictures, although only about 45 turned out decent. Here is a glimpse into Juliana's wonderful party.
Today was Juliana's birthday party. The kids went rock climbing, then played on a jumpy thingy for the two hour party. So much fun! I took about 100 pictures, although only about 45 turned out decent. Here is a glimpse into Juliana's wonderful party.
Gingerbread and One Little Angel
Yesterday, after school at 2:50, we got on the road for our friday night adventure. Try not to be jealous of my friday night blast! (Haaaaaaa) First, we went to pick up the Christmas pictures that we had taken at the end of November. They turned out really well. Then we headed to my sisters house to make gingerbread houses. It only took 4 hours to get to my sisters house with no plans to stay overnight, so by the time we got there at 7:05pm, I realized that I have to turn around to do the same thing after the fun time we were having. The houses were fun, although the kids attention span was close to a microsecond. They were more interested in putting on a Christmas play for us, or playing dress up.
We ended up getting home a bit before midnight. Juliana slept the whole way home, although it took Kevin about an hour to fall asleep.
I am exhausted, especially with Juliana's birthday party this afternoon. So much to do, so little time.
----------------------------
Maybe this is an odd thing to mention today. December 13 is the birthday of Baby B (I will not mention her real name). If you went to college with me, I know you would remember the baby I am talking about. A little background, without giving too much information. She was 9 months old when I cared for her. A professor of mine owned a small private school in the area, and asked if anyone would be willing to volunteer for a special needs baby on a daily basis. I jumped at the chance to do it.
jumping ahead... When I arrived to meet "B", she looked like any other baby, just teeeeeny tiny. I was told she was blind, her heart stopped on a regular basis, and she needed to be watched every minute of every day. I was a naive college kid at the time, and took care of her as I would any other child. I later found out that she was born without a brain stem, and would likely die any day, any week, any time.
I cared for "B" for 7 weeks, until the school told the parents that her care was too much for them to handle. I remember when her parents picked her up for the last time. I was a sobbing mess. The snotty, dripping tears mess. I knew that I would never see her again. I was right. My professor contacted me in 2002 and mentioned that Baby B had died. She was 5 years old (almost 6) when she earned her angel wings. I think of her a lot. Her pictures are in my teaching portfolio. I love telling her story and showing her off in my arms as much as I possibly can. Such an angel. "B" would have been 12 years old today.
We ended up getting home a bit before midnight. Juliana slept the whole way home, although it took Kevin about an hour to fall asleep.
I am exhausted, especially with Juliana's birthday party this afternoon. So much to do, so little time.
----------------------------
Maybe this is an odd thing to mention today. December 13 is the birthday of Baby B (I will not mention her real name). If you went to college with me, I know you would remember the baby I am talking about. A little background, without giving too much information. She was 9 months old when I cared for her. A professor of mine owned a small private school in the area, and asked if anyone would be willing to volunteer for a special needs baby on a daily basis. I jumped at the chance to do it.
jumping ahead... When I arrived to meet "B", she looked like any other baby, just teeeeeny tiny. I was told she was blind, her heart stopped on a regular basis, and she needed to be watched every minute of every day. I was a naive college kid at the time, and took care of her as I would any other child. I later found out that she was born without a brain stem, and would likely die any day, any week, any time.
I cared for "B" for 7 weeks, until the school told the parents that her care was too much for them to handle. I remember when her parents picked her up for the last time. I was a sobbing mess. The snotty, dripping tears mess. I knew that I would never see her again. I was right. My professor contacted me in 2002 and mentioned that Baby B had died. She was 5 years old (almost 6) when she earned her angel wings. I think of her a lot. Her pictures are in my teaching portfolio. I love telling her story and showing her off in my arms as much as I possibly can. Such an angel. "B" would have been 12 years old today.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Word Filled Wednesday
Short and sweet post today.
Kevin had his annual physical today. Yes, his birthday was months ago, but his last one was in Dec. 07, so they want it to be one year apart. He got (almost) a perfect report today! Yayyyyyy! He is exactly 30 lbs fully clothed, and 38 3/4 inches tall. They did it fully clothed because the office was cold and they didn't want him shaking. NIce, I guess. There are a few issues going on, which don't need to be discussed on my blog, so we are dealing with those with specialists. He was a hit with every nurse in the office. He held their hands, and was just darn cute the whole time. He was even adorable when they gave him his flu immunization and took some blood too. Way to go kiddo!
Soooo, for all of you that have been worrying about my little man, you can take off your worry hats for now.
Kevin had his annual physical today. Yes, his birthday was months ago, but his last one was in Dec. 07, so they want it to be one year apart. He got (almost) a perfect report today! Yayyyyyy! He is exactly 30 lbs fully clothed, and 38 3/4 inches tall. They did it fully clothed because the office was cold and they didn't want him shaking. NIce, I guess. There are a few issues going on, which don't need to be discussed on my blog, so we are dealing with those with specialists. He was a hit with every nurse in the office. He held their hands, and was just darn cute the whole time. He was even adorable when they gave him his flu immunization and took some blood too. Way to go kiddo!
Soooo, for all of you that have been worrying about my little man, you can take off your worry hats for now.
Sunday, December 07, 2008
7 on the 7th!
We'll, it's official! Juliana is a big 7 year old girl today! Still more to come today, stay tuned.
---------------------
My 7 year old is in bed now. Sound asleep.
A synopsis of our day.... My mom arrived this morning with Shadow. A few minutes later the birthday girl, Nana, and Grampy arrived at our house. We just enjoyed each other's company for a couple hours, while playing Uno, feeding the ducks, and eating lunch.
After lunch was cake time! I thought I was such a good mommy by ordering a cake from a bakery this year rather than going to the grocery store. Baaaaaad idea! Juliana hated her cake! It was chocolate with buttercream filling, and frosting too. She was not impressed with it whatsoever. Most of us thought it was pretty bad. Ehhhh, I tried!
After cake, my mom left with Shadow. It was really nice to have mom here for Juliana's special day. I know Juliana loved having both of her grandmother's here to share her day.
At some point, we decided to open presents. Juliana was SPOILED again this year! She got a doll (amongst other things) from Nana and Grampy, a pretty fairy to hang in her room from Grand, school set from Uncle Bryan and Jean, PJ's from Auntie Meara, coolest nightlight ever (and other things too) from Mommy and Daddy, the most adorable Gap clothes from Auntie Shannon, but the winner of "COOLEST GIFT EVER" is given to Grand Liz. She gave Juliana a cheerleading outfit with pom-poms. Juliana tried to tuck it into her jeans to wear out to dinner. Haaaa, nope! Nice try cutie!
After opening gifts, we went to the Rainforest Cafe. Soooooo much fun! We ate a ton of food, enjoyed the loud thunder, loud monkeys, then came home.
That is Juliana's fabulous 7th birthday synopsis.
And here is one of my favorite pictures of the day. Juliana is talking to her best friend Alissa who lives in .... well, she doesn't live in the United States. Juliana was sooooo excited to talk to her, so I thought I'd snap a picture of her talking to her best friend. So sweet!
---------------------
My 7 year old is in bed now. Sound asleep.
A synopsis of our day.... My mom arrived this morning with Shadow. A few minutes later the birthday girl, Nana, and Grampy arrived at our house. We just enjoyed each other's company for a couple hours, while playing Uno, feeding the ducks, and eating lunch.
After lunch was cake time! I thought I was such a good mommy by ordering a cake from a bakery this year rather than going to the grocery store. Baaaaaad idea! Juliana hated her cake! It was chocolate with buttercream filling, and frosting too. She was not impressed with it whatsoever. Most of us thought it was pretty bad. Ehhhh, I tried!
After cake, my mom left with Shadow. It was really nice to have mom here for Juliana's special day. I know Juliana loved having both of her grandmother's here to share her day.
At some point, we decided to open presents. Juliana was SPOILED again this year! She got a doll (amongst other things) from Nana and Grampy, a pretty fairy to hang in her room from Grand, school set from Uncle Bryan and Jean, PJ's from Auntie Meara, coolest nightlight ever (and other things too) from Mommy and Daddy, the most adorable Gap clothes from Auntie Shannon, but the winner of "COOLEST GIFT EVER" is given to Grand Liz. She gave Juliana a cheerleading outfit with pom-poms. Juliana tried to tuck it into her jeans to wear out to dinner. Haaaa, nope! Nice try cutie!
After opening gifts, we went to the Rainforest Cafe. Soooooo much fun! We ate a ton of food, enjoyed the loud thunder, loud monkeys, then came home.
That is Juliana's fabulous 7th birthday synopsis.
And here is one of my favorite pictures of the day. Juliana is talking to her best friend Alissa who lives in .... well, she doesn't live in the United States. Juliana was sooooo excited to talk to her, so I thought I'd snap a picture of her talking to her best friend. So sweet!
Saturday, December 06, 2008
Last Few Moments
Our baby girl is enjoying her last few moments of being 6 years old. Interestingly enough, she does not want to turn 7. She told me a few times tonight that she wants to stay 6 because "7 year old girls have to really be big girls". I guess being 6 is much more fun.
Right now, she is having a sleepover with Nana and Grampy at their hotel. It is 10pm, and they just walked out the door. Going to bed late is part of a perfect sleepover, I suppose. Ha ha!
Here is a glimpse into the last 7 years.... December 7, 2001--a freezing New England day, I think. I was stuck in the hospital from early morning on Dec. 6, until late on December 11, 2001.
Right now, she is having a sleepover with Nana and Grampy at their hotel. It is 10pm, and they just walked out the door. Going to bed late is part of a perfect sleepover, I suppose. Ha ha!
Here is a glimpse into the last 7 years.... December 7, 2001--a freezing New England day, I think. I was stuck in the hospital from early morning on Dec. 6, until late on December 11, 2001.
Thursday, December 04, 2008
A birthday surprise
Today I was all ready to go to the gym. Actually I am still in my gym clothes. I realized that cleaning, laundry, birthday shopping, and other things need to get done before this weekend. Ohhh, and Juliana's annual physical today and rock climbing too.
We are getting ready for our guests to arrive. Jason's parents will be here late late tonight! Juliana has NO idea! They thought it would be fun to surprise her for her birthday and to have a mini-Christmas together too. Lots to do, and lots to look forward to.
Be prepared for pictures galore during the next few days.
We are getting ready for our guests to arrive. Jason's parents will be here late late tonight! Juliana has NO idea! They thought it would be fun to surprise her for her birthday and to have a mini-Christmas together too. Lots to do, and lots to look forward to.
Be prepared for pictures galore during the next few days.
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
Blogland fun
Name 5 people you can think of right off the top of your head. Don' t read the questions underneath until you write the names of all 5 people. This is a lot funnier if you actually randomly list the names first.
No cheating!
1) Meara
2) Martine
3) Jason
4) Kerri
5) Shannon
** DONT LOOK AHEAD UNLESS YOU FILLED UP THE TOP! **
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Where did you meet number four?
In Room 22 before the 07-08 year began.
Do you love anyone up there ?
Love 'em all... differently, of course.
What would you do if number 5 and number 1 were going out?
Uhhhhhh, stranger things have happened. Hey, whatever. Better get married in MA, 'cause Californians are scared of those gay people.
How did you meet number 1?
I have noooooo idea. Our mom's have been best friends for about 50 years. I must have met her in the hospital when she was born.
Who is number 2 married to?
John. Or as Juliana says, "the tallest daddy on the planet!"
Have you ever eaten around number 1?
Let's put it this way, Meara and I are more like sisters than just friends. Of course, we've eaten together.
What do you like about number 2?
I don't know where to begin.
What do you think of number 3?
He's my hubby. I LOVE HIM!
If number 3 and 4 got in a fight who would win?
HOLY GOD, I HAVE NO IDEA! It would warrant a pay-per view subscription though. HAAAAA!
Who does number 4 hate?
I have a few ideas, but I'll just keep my mouth shut.
Have you ever been in or on number 1's bed?
Yup, but not in the last 20 years, ok maybe 15, but you get my point.
Do you like number 5 as more than a friend?
Yes. She's like my chosen family. (insert cheese here)
Do you trust number 4?
Absolutely!
Have you ever dated number 3?
We've been together for 12 1/2 years...
Have you and number 4 ever sung together?
No karaoke yet... good idea though! Yes, we have sung really stupid kid songs, and maybe a couple things after a few drinks. Who knows.
Have you ever gotten drunk with any of these people?
See above... Yes, every one of them! And I am not a lush, I'm really not.
Is number 1 single?
She's not married... YET!
How long have you known them?
1)Meara. Almost 30 years. Since the day she was born.
2) Martine. 1 1/2 years. (feels like much longer)
3) Jason. 13 years.
4) Kerri. 1 1/2 years. (again, feels like so much longer)
5) Shannon. 13 years. Whoa, time flies!
No cheating!
1) Meara
2) Martine
3) Jason
4) Kerri
5) Shannon
** DONT LOOK AHEAD UNLESS YOU FILLED UP THE TOP! **
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Where did you meet number four?
In Room 22 before the 07-08 year began.
Do you love anyone up there ?
Love 'em all... differently, of course.
What would you do if number 5 and number 1 were going out?
Uhhhhhh, stranger things have happened. Hey, whatever. Better get married in MA, 'cause Californians are scared of those gay people.
How did you meet number 1?
I have noooooo idea. Our mom's have been best friends for about 50 years. I must have met her in the hospital when she was born.
Who is number 2 married to?
John. Or as Juliana says, "the tallest daddy on the planet!"
Have you ever eaten around number 1?
Let's put it this way, Meara and I are more like sisters than just friends. Of course, we've eaten together.
What do you like about number 2?
I don't know where to begin.
What do you think of number 3?
He's my hubby. I LOVE HIM!
If number 3 and 4 got in a fight who would win?
HOLY GOD, I HAVE NO IDEA! It would warrant a pay-per view subscription though. HAAAAA!
Who does number 4 hate?
I have a few ideas, but I'll just keep my mouth shut.
Have you ever been in or on number 1's bed?
Yup, but not in the last 20 years, ok maybe 15, but you get my point.
Do you like number 5 as more than a friend?
Yes. She's like my chosen family. (insert cheese here)
Do you trust number 4?
Absolutely!
Have you ever dated number 3?
We've been together for 12 1/2 years...
Have you and number 4 ever sung together?
No karaoke yet... good idea though! Yes, we have sung really stupid kid songs, and maybe a couple things after a few drinks. Who knows.
Have you ever gotten drunk with any of these people?
See above... Yes, every one of them! And I am not a lush, I'm really not.
Is number 1 single?
She's not married... YET!
How long have you known them?
1)Meara. Almost 30 years. Since the day she was born.
2) Martine. 1 1/2 years. (feels like much longer)
3) Jason. 13 years.
4) Kerri. 1 1/2 years. (again, feels like so much longer)
5) Shannon. 13 years. Whoa, time flies!
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
Mother Letter Project
Are you kidding me? This has got to be the most wonderful idea EVER!
Before you click on the icon above, click on ROCKS IN MY DRYER first. It is a very simplistic view of the project and will draw you in.
Read about this project. It encompasses motherhood, Christmas, family, husbands, thoughtfulness, and so much more.
Monday, December 01, 2008
Nope, not me!
I did not bribe my 3 year old with a "wally-pop" if he did not wake mommy up during the night.
He did not in turn wake up and immediately want his "wally-pop" for breakfast since he was such a big boy. Noooo, not my health nut, non-picky eater kid!
I did not sit in the chair today to get my haircut and think, "Is it rude to tell her that her breath is rancid?!".
I did not, once again, bribe my 3 year old with a wally-pop at bedtime just so mommy could sleep through the night two nights in a row. Ohhhh, maybe I did.
Ni night.
TRANSLATION: "wally-pop"- lollipop
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)