I had to be quick because he quickly slid under the beach brush. This dude had a 4-5" wide body. Marvelous!
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Wednesday, September 09, 2009
Florida Blue Crab
I love Florida wild life and seeing a huge Florida blue crab on the beach made Labor day extra special.
I had to be quick because he quickly slid under the beach brush. This dude had a 4-5" wide body. Marvelous!
I had to be quick because he quickly slid under the beach brush. This dude had a 4-5" wide body. Marvelous!
Charlotte Walking
In one week, just one week, Charlotte has switched to walking almost 90% of the time. It's like a switch went off in her head. Just a week ago I posted photos of her clumsy steps on the beach. This weekend she walked with me to the neighbors home.
I'm really not sure why the walking has me so amazed. I watch her toddle around the condo in total disbelief. I can recall people saying, ooooh wait till she takes her first steps, or you don't want her to be in day care when she takes her first steps. The first steps were cool but the entire walking thing is totally and consistently astounding!!!
You may notice the cute little sandals came off, she seems to walk better without shoes, which is fine but I don't want her to step in duck poop. The little pond in the background is home to Muscovy ducks and they make quite a mess. Now if I can only keep her from stopping to poke at the duck poop.
I'm really not sure why the walking has me so amazed. I watch her toddle around the condo in total disbelief. I can recall people saying, ooooh wait till she takes her first steps, or you don't want her to be in day care when she takes her first steps. The first steps were cool but the entire walking thing is totally and consistently astounding!!!
You may notice the cute little sandals came off, she seems to walk better without shoes, which is fine but I don't want her to step in duck poop. The little pond in the background is home to Muscovy ducks and they make quite a mess. Now if I can only keep her from stopping to poke at the duck poop.
This post is about me
My knees hurt - alot. I did a 20 minute level 2 routine from the Jillian Micheal's Shread DVD and then wore heels to the office. The workout has alot of jumping and it's hurt before but not this much. Maybe it's because I took 4 days off to do nothing over Labor Day weekend? I dunno, but I'm switching to flats for the remainder of this exercise.
I suppose there has to be compromise - I can be in shape, but need to wear flats OR I can be cuddly and wear heels. I should also point out that while getting in shape, my hair has gone to crap. I literally wash it and run out the door with wet curly hair. So I'm in shape, can wear size 6 again, hair has the wet curly look all day and I'm in flats. Now if I can only go to bed on time I might accomoplish better hair.
To be continued.
I suppose there has to be compromise - I can be in shape, but need to wear flats OR I can be cuddly and wear heels. I should also point out that while getting in shape, my hair has gone to crap. I literally wash it and run out the door with wet curly hair. So I'm in shape, can wear size 6 again, hair has the wet curly look all day and I'm in flats. Now if I can only go to bed on time I might accomoplish better hair.
To be continued.
Friday, September 04, 2009
Friday Night
I got off work early today, thanks to an impulsively kind boss. Much gratitude.
Husband and I took our lovely daughter out for dinner, and for once we didn't bring the camera. We fed her Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, Carrots and Chocolate Cake.
Afterward we walked through the throngs of awkward teens struggling to outdo each other in scruffy clothing - two guys even wore those stupid hats from Walt Disney World and one carried a wooden cross that he called a sword?!? I thought grunge was left behind in the 90's? I tried to make Charlotte promise to never become a scruffy hippie teen but she just might find evidence of our prior lives... if she looks hard enough.
Husband and I took our lovely daughter out for dinner, and for once we didn't bring the camera. We fed her Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, Carrots and Chocolate Cake.
Afterward we walked through the throngs of awkward teens struggling to outdo each other in scruffy clothing - two guys even wore those stupid hats from Walt Disney World and one carried a wooden cross that he called a sword?!? I thought grunge was left behind in the 90's? I tried to make Charlotte promise to never become a scruffy hippie teen but she just might find evidence of our prior lives... if she looks hard enough.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
How do you teach a Toddler to be nice to animals?
Dear Readers,
I would like to solicit your advice on how to teach a Toddler to be gentle with pets. Any experience or recommendations would be greatly appreciated.
We have three cats and one Cavalier King Charles.
The dog huddles in a corner near my feet or in the corner of his dog bed as the Toddler attempts to hug him, sit on him, pat him, pull on his ears and tail and the dog does nothing but attempt to escape. He's a very sweet dog and our chief concern here is the dog's safety.
Two of the cats have taken up permanent residence in the garage (one of which is possibly turning feral). Zorak, the oldest cat, refuses to give up house residence and puts up with the never ending stream of love from Toddler. He has a history of temperamental behavior with us but thus far has shown no aggression towards the Toddler. He will change locations but lately just seems to "put up with it". Our chief concern is the cat getting fed up and smacking the Toddler.
Here is a photo of Toddler laying her head on Zorak.
The question of how to discipline a Toddler needs answered. Repeatedly saying Gentle, Be Nice to Kitteh, Stop hitting Kitteh, HEY, Enough are met with a curious look and then action repeated.
Completely dismayed, and confused.
Again, any recommendations would be appreciated with the exception of recommendation to get rid of said pets because we feel it's important for Toddler to be nice to animals and they are part of our family.
I would like to solicit your advice on how to teach a Toddler to be gentle with pets. Any experience or recommendations would be greatly appreciated.
We have three cats and one Cavalier King Charles.
The dog huddles in a corner near my feet or in the corner of his dog bed as the Toddler attempts to hug him, sit on him, pat him, pull on his ears and tail and the dog does nothing but attempt to escape. He's a very sweet dog and our chief concern here is the dog's safety.
Two of the cats have taken up permanent residence in the garage (one of which is possibly turning feral). Zorak, the oldest cat, refuses to give up house residence and puts up with the never ending stream of love from Toddler. He has a history of temperamental behavior with us but thus far has shown no aggression towards the Toddler. He will change locations but lately just seems to "put up with it". Our chief concern is the cat getting fed up and smacking the Toddler.
Here is a photo of Toddler laying her head on Zorak.
The question of how to discipline a Toddler needs answered. Repeatedly saying Gentle, Be Nice to Kitteh, Stop hitting Kitteh, HEY, Enough are met with a curious look and then action repeated.
Completely dismayed, and confused.
Again, any recommendations would be appreciated with the exception of recommendation to get rid of said pets because we feel it's important for Toddler to be nice to animals and they are part of our family.
It's Saturday and we went to the beach
It's our routine and we see no good reason to stray from a good thing. There may come a day when we no longer live in South Florida and now is the time to make sure we get the most for our "investment dollars" --- or one might say "live every day like it's going to be your last", or "why pin for the future when you can enjoy life now?"
Speaking of investment dollars, I've been meaning to write about how owning property that's dropped 50% in value isn't all it was supposed to be but that's kinda depressing and isn't most of the country in the same boat? So this blog will continue to focus on the positive's of South Florida - or at least until our 5 Year ARM mortgage is reset in October 2010. Until then we have big plans to enjoy life and squirrel away as much savings as possible for that inevitable day.
Moving onto the fun part, we hit a milestone! Walking on the beach!!! Charlotte has alternated between crawling and walking for several months in our home and so it was pretty cool to see her stand up and walk on the beach:
and then she fell down,
and picked herself back up without a fuss
as Grit once said, I was over the moon with pride!
Speaking of investment dollars, I've been meaning to write about how owning property that's dropped 50% in value isn't all it was supposed to be but that's kinda depressing and isn't most of the country in the same boat? So this blog will continue to focus on the positive's of South Florida - or at least until our 5 Year ARM mortgage is reset in October 2010. Until then we have big plans to enjoy life and squirrel away as much savings as possible for that inevitable day.
Moving onto the fun part, we hit a milestone! Walking on the beach!!! Charlotte has alternated between crawling and walking for several months in our home and so it was pretty cool to see her stand up and walk on the beach:
and then she fell down,
and picked herself back up without a fuss
as Grit once said, I was over the moon with pride!
Thursday, August 27, 2009
I could swear I had several ideas for a post
But I can't think of a single one, mind has gone blank. So here's a few general updates:
1. Guest cat is gone, yeah!
2. I'm back to pre-pregnancy weight and clothes, yeah!
3. Tired of Jillian Michael's Shred DVD and only to level 2. I'm not sure if I'm wimping out or if I just really need to keep it to every other day because it's making my knees hurt from all the jumping and frankly speaking, I really miss walking outside with my iPod at 6am. Doing this DVD has helped me lose the rest of the weight that wasn't coming off with walking but now that it's off, I want to do relaxing exercise like walking and yoga. If I keep writing I just might talk myself out of finishing the DVD and well I should probably at least finish it. Okay I'll finish it but then that's it.
1. Guest cat is gone, yeah!
2. I'm back to pre-pregnancy weight and clothes, yeah!
3. Tired of Jillian Michael's Shred DVD and only to level 2. I'm not sure if I'm wimping out or if I just really need to keep it to every other day because it's making my knees hurt from all the jumping and frankly speaking, I really miss walking outside with my iPod at 6am. Doing this DVD has helped me lose the rest of the weight that wasn't coming off with walking but now that it's off, I want to do relaxing exercise like walking and yoga. If I keep writing I just might talk myself out of finishing the DVD and well I should probably at least finish it. Okay I'll finish it but then that's it.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
In between work, beach going, vacations & occasional church posts is an extremely frazzled mommy, a scratched daughter & locked up guest cat
Back story -
Husband has had classes every night this week which means I rush home at 5:30 and we pass each other in the doorway. I then attempt to make dinner with small child underfoot who hasn't seen me all day and wants attention.
Cue current evening, dinner was made and while sitting at desk I fed Charlotte some cheerios while eating salad. The entire time she was really grumpy and kept wandering off for other entertainment - ending with her in the hallway out of sight with the guest cat who scratched her hand and I think she might have bumped her head.
Feeling horrible barely describes it.
Locking guest kitty in bathroom - requirement for the next 3 days.
Request to husband - please make dinner for me to take to work, eat at 5pm BEFORE coming home to baby on your class nights. It can be a simple wrap, PB&J, I don't care, as long as it's a food option. Your everlasting loving but frazzled wife.
Husband has had classes every night this week which means I rush home at 5:30 and we pass each other in the doorway. I then attempt to make dinner with small child underfoot who hasn't seen me all day and wants attention.
Cue current evening, dinner was made and while sitting at desk I fed Charlotte some cheerios while eating salad. The entire time she was really grumpy and kept wandering off for other entertainment - ending with her in the hallway out of sight with the guest cat who scratched her hand and I think she might have bumped her head.
Feeling horrible barely describes it.
Locking guest kitty in bathroom - requirement for the next 3 days.
Request to husband - please make dinner for me to take to work, eat at 5pm BEFORE coming home to baby on your class nights. It can be a simple wrap, PB&J, I don't care, as long as it's a food option. Your everlasting loving but frazzled wife.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Cooking - while child plays in cupboards
It's still challenging to cook with a small child of 14 months. Tonight I found a compromise - let her pull everything out of one cupboard and then step lightly over the pots and pans.
She then proceeded to get in and out of the cupboard.
On a separate but related note, I was making a salad and upon researching toppings, found this:
And this:
Well we were on vacation for a week - recently...
She then proceeded to get in and out of the cupboard.
On a separate but related note, I was making a salad and upon researching toppings, found this:
And this:
Well we were on vacation for a week - recently...
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Totally worth it!
In case you hadn't noticed I was having a bit of home bound anxiety. After a week cooped up at work I was just itching to get outside and play with my baby. A series of fortunate events lead to a perfect morning.
First the rain subsided enough for us to escape by 10am and get a Chick Fil A sausage, egg and cheese biscuit (I love these things way more then I should).
I threw a piece of Naan bread at Charlotte to keep her happy on the 1/2 hour drive and thankfully she fell asleep on the way.
Due to the morning rain, the preferred parking meter spots are empty! At 11am this is astonishing and most unexpected.
Sleeping baby gives me time to eat breakfast, put on suntan lotion, organize our beach gear AND put lotion on the baby. Hee hee, I'm sneaky that way. I even saved some biscuit & egg for her which upon waking she promptly grabbed in her firm little grip.
The first thing we do is survey the beach front and note the red flag is out which means Hazard, Rip Currents. Wind is strong so no beach umbrella today. Good thing we are both covered in 50spf sunblock, resolve to walk the beach and take less gear.
Upon finding a nice deserted spot, we settle close to the water because the sand is wet and cool and there's lots of sea weed to play with.
Here is Charlotte surveying the waves:
Moving onto sand flinging (notice the biscuit still in her right hand? she covered it in sand and ate it shortly after - I swear I was thinking in my head she won't do that!):
Drawing in the sand:
Happily surveying the waves:
Practicing a bit of yoga (downward dog pose):
And then whoaaaa girl, getting really close to that water! I thought you didn't like the waves rolling over you. Remember 2 months ago when you clung to me for dear life as we sat in the calm peaceful water????
At this point I throw my camera into the bag and referee the beach front as she repeatedly crawls into the water and giggles as the waves wash over us. Just to give you an idea of how hard they were hitting - in order to remove some of the sand caked on us, I walked into the water till it was about knee height and a wave hit me so hard from behind it knocked my sunglasses off. Yeah - at that point I took her back to the front of the water and just knelt in the sand in front of her with a bear hug as the waves washed around us.
My baby, almost 14 months old, is a wild women!
First the rain subsided enough for us to escape by 10am and get a Chick Fil A sausage, egg and cheese biscuit (I love these things way more then I should).
I threw a piece of Naan bread at Charlotte to keep her happy on the 1/2 hour drive and thankfully she fell asleep on the way.
Due to the morning rain, the preferred parking meter spots are empty! At 11am this is astonishing and most unexpected.
Sleeping baby gives me time to eat breakfast, put on suntan lotion, organize our beach gear AND put lotion on the baby. Hee hee, I'm sneaky that way. I even saved some biscuit & egg for her which upon waking she promptly grabbed in her firm little grip.
The first thing we do is survey the beach front and note the red flag is out which means Hazard, Rip Currents. Wind is strong so no beach umbrella today. Good thing we are both covered in 50spf sunblock, resolve to walk the beach and take less gear.
Upon finding a nice deserted spot, we settle close to the water because the sand is wet and cool and there's lots of sea weed to play with.
Here is Charlotte surveying the waves:
Moving onto sand flinging (notice the biscuit still in her right hand? she covered it in sand and ate it shortly after - I swear I was thinking in my head she won't do that!):
Drawing in the sand:
Happily surveying the waves:
Practicing a bit of yoga (downward dog pose):
And then whoaaaa girl, getting really close to that water! I thought you didn't like the waves rolling over you. Remember 2 months ago when you clung to me for dear life as we sat in the calm peaceful water????
At this point I throw my camera into the bag and referee the beach front as she repeatedly crawls into the water and giggles as the waves wash over us. Just to give you an idea of how hard they were hitting - in order to remove some of the sand caked on us, I walked into the water till it was about knee height and a wave hit me so hard from behind it knocked my sunglasses off. Yeah - at that point I took her back to the front of the water and just knelt in the sand in front of her with a bear hug as the waves washed around us.
My baby, almost 14 months old, is a wild women!
On 3rd thought...
It stopped raining!
First thing, walk dog, then make a break for sandwich at Chick Fil A.
Oh look! Mama Duck's babies are finally too big to be swallowed by big evil white bird. Good job Mama Duck!
Moving onto Chick Fil A sandwich.
First thing, walk dog, then make a break for sandwich at Chick Fil A.
Oh look! Mama Duck's babies are finally too big to be swallowed by big evil white bird. Good job Mama Duck!
Moving onto Chick Fil A sandwich.
On 2nd thought...
In the 15 minutes it took to repack my purse, put on bathing suit, acquire beach umbrella in garage and pack beach bag it began to pour rain
Lest you think me slightly batty for not checking the weather, it was sunny out when I walked husband to his truck one hour ago. What did I do for the past hour???
Guess we will have to make do with playing under the desk with the dog:
And sitting in the dog's bed:
Lest you think me slightly batty for not checking the weather, it was sunny out when I walked husband to his truck one hour ago. What did I do for the past hour???
Guess we will have to make do with playing under the desk with the dog:
And sitting in the dog's bed:
Back in FL means back to the beach!
I need to go to the beach, I keep telling myself that as I contemplate pulling the gear from the garage, finding my 2nd bathing suit (since the first one is wet), repack my purse, pack babies bag, find towels and pull baby out from under the desk - poor unfortunate soul, she needs a day in the sun don't ya think?
But first we are going to walk the dog.
And then we are going to Chick Fil A for a sandwich b/c we have no eggs and I can't live without a morning egg - it holds me till 1pm and that's really helpful these days.
Finally, guest kitteh has gotten comfortable and no longer hisses at us (mine are still in the garage)
Right-O then on with the day!
But first we are going to walk the dog.
And then we are going to Chick Fil A for a sandwich b/c we have no eggs and I can't live without a morning egg - it holds me till 1pm and that's really helpful these days.
Finally, guest kitteh has gotten comfortable and no longer hisses at us (mine are still in the garage)
Right-O then on with the day!
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Foreign Exchange Kitteh
Co-worker had an emergency trip to Colombia and I volunteered to cat-sit. I say "Foreign Exchange" because she speaks Spanish to her cat. Not sure if new Kitteh understands us. We've considered leaving Telemundo on all day for her comfort.
Many years of cat experience has taught us to not mix cats so ours are in the garage for the week.
Day 1 had new Kitteh in carrier and under couch. She's nervous and hisses at us frequently.
Day 2 has her out visiting the dog, trying out our couches and avoiding the baby.
Co-worker is trying to find a home for Kitteh since she is young, single and likes to travel - unfortunately for her, Kitteh is not happy with the travel part and is desperate for attention - co-worker claims Kitteh cried real tears when she came home from a weekend away. We don't wish to be the recipients of a 4th kitteh. She's very cute but we have our hands full. Seriously - no more kitteh's!
Here's our gorgeous calico visitor:
Many years of cat experience has taught us to not mix cats so ours are in the garage for the week.
Day 1 had new Kitteh in carrier and under couch. She's nervous and hisses at us frequently.
Day 2 has her out visiting the dog, trying out our couches and avoiding the baby.
Co-worker is trying to find a home for Kitteh since she is young, single and likes to travel - unfortunately for her, Kitteh is not happy with the travel part and is desperate for attention - co-worker claims Kitteh cried real tears when she came home from a weekend away. We don't wish to be the recipients of a 4th kitteh. She's very cute but we have our hands full. Seriously - no more kitteh's!
Here's our gorgeous calico visitor:
Wednesday, August 05, 2009
Things I love about a small town
Growing up we spent the summers buying or picking food from our garden for canning or freezing for the winter. Cherries, strawberries, raspberries, peaches, apples, corn, etc. Get a few family members involved and it's a day of cleaning, cooking and preping large quantities of food. Sounds old fashioned right?
Yesterday we got a call asking if we wanted to pick up 200 ears of sweet corn (1/2 for mom and 1/2 for her sister). It would seem that my mom was waiting for this call because she quickly packed us in the car and off we went to the Mennoitte farm. I really forgot how conservative Mennoitee's dress and while I put a skirt on, my tank top was embarrasingly - how do I put this - "immodest". We arrived to find at least 20 family members shucking corn - grandma, aunts, cousins, children down to the age of 4 months - okay the 4mo was cooing in a car seat but even the 2 year old was helping. The women wear bonnets, long dresses, black hose and dark closed in shoes. I have such high respect for these women. Really wished I would have remembered to wear a blouse. Kinda like showing up to church in a bikini!
Here is Charlotte's first visit to a farm (where I don't take photos of the people because my husband told me to show some respect - and I think he would have taken away my phone)
Okay maybe one little photo of the girl who babbled stores to me while my husband collected the corn - she was adorable!!!
And here is Charlotte hanging out in the wheelbarrel with about 50 ears of corn:
The last photo is our corn shucking station with cousin:
What a fun day!
Side note - I grew up in a family that attends a very strict church that does not allow women to cut their hair, no pants, no jewelry, etc. My mom fits in quite well with the Mennonite women with the exception of a bonnet and black hose. I've left this world for the fast business world of toys and a beach life in South Florida - coming home I often wonder what kind of person I would be if I stayed here in farm country, there is a certain kind of nostalgia that grabs me when I'm home.
Yesterday we got a call asking if we wanted to pick up 200 ears of sweet corn (1/2 for mom and 1/2 for her sister). It would seem that my mom was waiting for this call because she quickly packed us in the car and off we went to the Mennoitte farm. I really forgot how conservative Mennoitee's dress and while I put a skirt on, my tank top was embarrasingly - how do I put this - "immodest". We arrived to find at least 20 family members shucking corn - grandma, aunts, cousins, children down to the age of 4 months - okay the 4mo was cooing in a car seat but even the 2 year old was helping. The women wear bonnets, long dresses, black hose and dark closed in shoes. I have such high respect for these women. Really wished I would have remembered to wear a blouse. Kinda like showing up to church in a bikini!
Here is Charlotte's first visit to a farm (where I don't take photos of the people because my husband told me to show some respect - and I think he would have taken away my phone)
Okay maybe one little photo of the girl who babbled stores to me while my husband collected the corn - she was adorable!!!
And here is Charlotte hanging out in the wheelbarrel with about 50 ears of corn:
The last photo is our corn shucking station with cousin:
What a fun day!
Side note - I grew up in a family that attends a very strict church that does not allow women to cut their hair, no pants, no jewelry, etc. My mom fits in quite well with the Mennonite women with the exception of a bonnet and black hose. I've left this world for the fast business world of toys and a beach life in South Florida - coming home I often wonder what kind of person I would be if I stayed here in farm country, there is a certain kind of nostalgia that grabs me when I'm home.
Friday, July 31, 2009
TGIF
It's been a long week
- Monday work all day, rush home in evening to relieve husband so he can go to work, pack while baby demands attention
- Tuesday - Wednesday, LA trip - wonderful trip! I read Sophie Kinsella's new book "Twenties Girl" on the plane, it made me cry! Imagine sitting in a middle seat, crying over the ending, big heaving tears. Very tired from getting home at midnight but excited to find Jillian Michaels' 30 day Shred DVD has arrived from Amazon (inspiration goes to Suburban Turmoil)
- Thursday morning - jumped right into Shred DVD, went to work, later that night stayed up till 11 chatting with CeCe and really glad I did because she talked me out of getting up at 4:30am to Shread again, that would have been really stupid
- Friday - woke up at 5am to get ready for 3 hour drive to Orlando, we had our meetings from 10am - 3pm and got the heck out of there, no park visits, no downtown Disney visits, just Starbucks and home. On the way home my entire body began to ache from Shread. Really super glad CeCe talked me out of doing it again this morning. I probably would have cried through every meeting.
Disclaimer: due to all the chatter of bloggers posting about products for money or freebies I feel compelled to add Shred, Starbucks, Suburban Turmoil and Sophie Kinsella's books are my preferences who all happen to start with S and I'm not mentioning them for personal gain.
- Monday work all day, rush home in evening to relieve husband so he can go to work, pack while baby demands attention
- Tuesday - Wednesday, LA trip - wonderful trip! I read Sophie Kinsella's new book "Twenties Girl" on the plane, it made me cry! Imagine sitting in a middle seat, crying over the ending, big heaving tears. Very tired from getting home at midnight but excited to find Jillian Michaels' 30 day Shred DVD has arrived from Amazon (inspiration goes to Suburban Turmoil)
- Thursday morning - jumped right into Shred DVD, went to work, later that night stayed up till 11 chatting with CeCe and really glad I did because she talked me out of getting up at 4:30am to Shread again, that would have been really stupid
- Friday - woke up at 5am to get ready for 3 hour drive to Orlando, we had our meetings from 10am - 3pm and got the heck out of there, no park visits, no downtown Disney visits, just Starbucks and home. On the way home my entire body began to ache from Shread. Really super glad CeCe talked me out of doing it again this morning. I probably would have cried through every meeting.
Disclaimer: due to all the chatter of bloggers posting about products for money or freebies I feel compelled to add Shred, Starbucks, Suburban Turmoil and Sophie Kinsella's books are my preferences who all happen to start with S and I'm not mentioning them for personal gain.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
This day is awesome
I'm at Manhattan beach pier with coffee and Jen Lancaster's latest book. This goes a long way towards making up for the long hours I put into my job. Special thanks to my boss for letting me plan my own business travel where I opted for a mid day return flight so I could enjoy the beach this morning.
This is me loving life.
This is me loving life.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
This week has got to be awesome
I've done all laundry, ironed all clothes for the entire week, and re-seamed my favorite dress pants while watching drop dead diva. Ready for trip to LA, trip to Orlando and back on the weekend to pack for following week to Maryland.
And for no better reason then to show off a photo of Charlotte I give you my best attempt at a Mohawk
And for no better reason then to show off a photo of Charlotte I give you my best attempt at a Mohawk
Friday, July 24, 2009
Commitment to dress better for work
One of the perks at work is DirecTV. We are supposed to watch cartoons but Nickelodeon replays the same SpongeBob & Madagascar cartoons over and over every day. You'd think that out of 10 years of SpongeBob they could show a little variety??? So we've moved on to shows like Cash Cab, The Daily Show, Colbert Report, E News, Discovery channel, Animal Planet and our all time favorite - "What Not To Wear". We've become hooked on this show and due to watching 3 shows a day, I've started to get self conscience of the claw clip I wear in my hair every other day, pony tails, generally not wearing my hear down because I haven't had a hair cut in 4 months and with super curly hair it means it's out of control and looks crazy when down. So tomorrow I'm getting a hair cut and hopefully next week as I travel to LA and Orlando I'll look sharp and pulled together with all the tips I've learned on "What Not To Wear".
Now if I could just get someone to nominate me for that show! A $5,000 shopping spree in New York City would be awesome and I wouldn't cry for my current wardrobe, throw a giant fit that nothing fits and beg the hair stylist to not cut too much like the current ungrateful participants.
Now if I could just get someone to nominate me for that show! A $5,000 shopping spree in New York City would be awesome and I wouldn't cry for my current wardrobe, throw a giant fit that nothing fits and beg the hair stylist to not cut too much like the current ungrateful participants.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
I didn't know they could do that!
Charlotte can now see over the top of my nightstand. She likes to reach for whatever she can grab from the top, which happened to be Tylenol today. Knowing it would really piss her off, I take it away and shove it behind a picture frame. I didn't expect her to grab the edge of nightstand and swing her little legs off the ground while trying to climb it??? In her fury, she turns into a baby hulk.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Minor Altercation with neighbors
I live next to the party condo; their friends and neighbors gather to drink and laugh regularly. Before I had the baby they would stay up VERY late and get obnoxiously drunk. By day they are very sweet and I really like them - I just don't have a life where I can join in the merriment. Since having they baby they've been really responsibly quiet until last Friday night.
Coming off a rough 3 day cold, husband gets up at 6am and I can't sleep. I've already taken one sleeping pill and it's not working. The music pounds next door - actually it wasn't that loud but I was freaking out as I always do when I can't sleep and have alot to do really early!
So I went out and yelled "hey, can you turn the music down?" and they did.
The next day was awkward, whereas I may not normally not smile and wave after every single pass of their porch today felt odd, how do I tell them I'm not upset, I was just really sick and couldn't sleep? I couldn't tell if they were studiously ignoring me.
A week went by and finally yesterday I caught my neighbors eye and she profusely apologized and swore to never play the radio again to which I said it's okay!
And now things are back to normal.
Coming off a rough 3 day cold, husband gets up at 6am and I can't sleep. I've already taken one sleeping pill and it's not working. The music pounds next door - actually it wasn't that loud but I was freaking out as I always do when I can't sleep and have alot to do really early!
So I went out and yelled "hey, can you turn the music down?" and they did.
The next day was awkward, whereas I may not normally not smile and wave after every single pass of their porch today felt odd, how do I tell them I'm not upset, I was just really sick and couldn't sleep? I couldn't tell if they were studiously ignoring me.
A week went by and finally yesterday I caught my neighbors eye and she profusely apologized and swore to never play the radio again to which I said it's okay!
And now things are back to normal.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Just when I thought I had the parenting thing down
She pulls a hanging plant on her head ... well she pulled hard on the hanging plant, which brought it crashing to the floor and the base hit her head.
9 years
Tomorrow is our 9th year wedding anniversary! I'm hoping I get picked up from work to have a beach picnic complete with sushi (Fashion Roll) and key lime pie (from Bonefish).
Anyone else get married in 2000?
PS.
I got my wish; husband and Charlotte showed up at work to whisk me off to the beach. We didn’t have a baby sitter and I’m kinda glad because she made us laugh really hard by having a great time with my new ring box. In fact I think she showed way more enthusiasm for the ring box than I showed for the ring – kids don’t hold back on joy! I have to post this photo because it’s one of my all time favorites – such sheer joy!!! I wish I were more openly joyful for the things I love and cherish.
Anyone else get married in 2000?
PS.
I got my wish; husband and Charlotte showed up at work to whisk me off to the beach. We didn’t have a baby sitter and I’m kinda glad because she made us laugh really hard by having a great time with my new ring box. In fact I think she showed way more enthusiasm for the ring box than I showed for the ring – kids don’t hold back on joy! I have to post this photo because it’s one of my all time favorites – such sheer joy!!! I wish I were more openly joyful for the things I love and cherish.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Saturday - random thoughts
my pets don't get much mention on this blog, it's because their life is routine - not much changes. But this week we got some photos of their attempt to change things up a bit.
Sharing baby's new water toy - hmmm better move it before it gets holes like the last water toy
Zorak has lost enough weight to jump up on the garage stool - does he still look fat to you? well he's lost 3+ pounds and that's 20% of his body weight!
Oooh and now he can fit in the Amazon box! Don't ya just love it when weight loss let's you wear slimmer things?
***
Today I went shopping with baby to try clothing on my newly slimmed body - it was far more fun then 1 month ago - bought 3 blouses for under $50 total!
I might add that since I've been sick for 3 days, missed 12 miles of walking and been eating comfort mac n' cheese and chocolate eclairs. Monday I'll jump back on the work out wagon!
I have a business trip to LA soon and was desperate for some decent clothing. Here in S. Florida we dress really casual to the office, sandals, tank tops (the nice kind from Ann Tailor) so I'm not in the habit of dressing "well". I tend to freak out a bit every time I have to fly somewhere. Hence the emergency shopping trip.
***
Went to Pearl Vision today to fix my glasses after baby head butted me, crushing them against my left eye.
***
Baby has taken to bouncing her face off the bed (we have a mattress on her floor), it's kinda disturbing. She finishes with a big grin so it must be fun.
***
I haven't tried my SoniCare toothbrush yet - chronic laziness rules my life! Will also start Monday.
***
Baby is napping now, I think I will join her while there is still time.
Sharing baby's new water toy - hmmm better move it before it gets holes like the last water toy
Zorak has lost enough weight to jump up on the garage stool - does he still look fat to you? well he's lost 3+ pounds and that's 20% of his body weight!
Oooh and now he can fit in the Amazon box! Don't ya just love it when weight loss let's you wear slimmer things?
***
Today I went shopping with baby to try clothing on my newly slimmed body - it was far more fun then 1 month ago - bought 3 blouses for under $50 total!
I might add that since I've been sick for 3 days, missed 12 miles of walking and been eating comfort mac n' cheese and chocolate eclairs. Monday I'll jump back on the work out wagon!
I have a business trip to LA soon and was desperate for some decent clothing. Here in S. Florida we dress really casual to the office, sandals, tank tops (the nice kind from Ann Tailor) so I'm not in the habit of dressing "well". I tend to freak out a bit every time I have to fly somewhere. Hence the emergency shopping trip.
***
Went to Pearl Vision today to fix my glasses after baby head butted me, crushing them against my left eye.
***
Baby has taken to bouncing her face off the bed (we have a mattress on her floor), it's kinda disturbing. She finishes with a big grin so it must be fun.
***
I haven't tried my SoniCare toothbrush yet - chronic laziness rules my life! Will also start Monday.
***
Baby is napping now, I think I will join her while there is still time.
Thursday, July 09, 2009
Sick day
Today was one of those days where I slept in, husband benefited by getting a shower while I kept watch for baby to wake from 10am nap, got to eat lunch with hubs and baby, got an afternoon nap, tagged along on grocery trip and got a Cookies and Cream milkshake from Chick Fil' A and got a lovely dinner. Very nice day, don't mind the sore throat and lost voice much.
I used to be one of those employees who would work through every sick day, I could not fall behind, the world could not function without me, etc. Then one day, 3 weeks into my maternity leave, I received a phone call from Boss saying he didn't think he should have to pay for a week of sick leave as part of my maternity leave. Fortunately human resources was paying attention and found it stated in the employee manual that employees are allowed to combine sick days with maternity leave. Something snapped, I've since determined to take sick days and leave work at work.
I used to be one of those employees who would work through every sick day, I could not fall behind, the world could not function without me, etc. Then one day, 3 weeks into my maternity leave, I received a phone call from Boss saying he didn't think he should have to pay for a week of sick leave as part of my maternity leave. Fortunately human resources was paying attention and found it stated in the employee manual that employees are allowed to combine sick days with maternity leave. Something snapped, I've since determined to take sick days and leave work at work.
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
The Dental Hygienist VS me
I must admit, I'm not a model citizen when it comes to tooth care. I'm reminded of this every time I visit the dentist. I put it off as long as possible, cringing at the guaranteed tongue lashing but too lazy to actually try to impress her by flossing daily.
Nidya was in rare form today; Chinese born Venezuelan she speaks with a sweet kind Latin accent but with the steely command of woman in charge. She's not prepared to take another day of my lazy crap. First she shows me a Sonic Care toothbrush while I yawn and pretend to be interested, then she combs through my 3 year history and points out my gums have bleed on every single visit, she then commences with the cleaning while holding up a mirror and pointing out every single pocket that is 3-4mm deep!?!, she pulls out a DVD player to demonstrate the horrors of gum disease, I tell her I'm considering adult braces and she recoils in horror and says I MUST FIX MY GUMS FIRST! She actually tells me I must prove to her that I can take care of my teeth before I can get braces. Oh my!
Nidya wins this round - I buy the Sonic Care toothbrush and vow to make Nidya proud.
disclaimer - I was not paid by SoniCare to promote this product, I see I didn't even spell it right above.
Nidya was in rare form today; Chinese born Venezuelan she speaks with a sweet kind Latin accent but with the steely command of woman in charge. She's not prepared to take another day of my lazy crap. First she shows me a Sonic Care toothbrush while I yawn and pretend to be interested, then she combs through my 3 year history and points out my gums have bleed on every single visit, she then commences with the cleaning while holding up a mirror and pointing out every single pocket that is 3-4mm deep!?!, she pulls out a DVD player to demonstrate the horrors of gum disease, I tell her I'm considering adult braces and she recoils in horror and says I MUST FIX MY GUMS FIRST! She actually tells me I must prove to her that I can take care of my teeth before I can get braces. Oh my!
Nidya wins this round - I buy the Sonic Care toothbrush and vow to make Nidya proud.
disclaimer - I was not paid by SoniCare to promote this product, I see I didn't even spell it right above.
Saturday, July 04, 2009
4th of July 2009
Today is a fun day for me because I can finally compare photos from Charlotte's first holiday to now!
4th of July 2008 (Charlotte was 15 days old)
- 15 days post birth, I was home by myself, husband working, family hadn't visited yet and I was finally getting into a routine of feeding, naps and diaper changes. I hadn't planned on a festive outfit so a flag over the baby was all I managed.
4th of July 2009 (Charlotte is 1 year, 15 days)
- For the last 6 months I've loved dressing her in hats but she appears to be done with this phase, I couldn't keep her flag hat on today.
She did have alot of fun with waving the flag!
4th of July 2008 (Charlotte was 15 days old)
- 15 days post birth, I was home by myself, husband working, family hadn't visited yet and I was finally getting into a routine of feeding, naps and diaper changes. I hadn't planned on a festive outfit so a flag over the baby was all I managed.
4th of July 2009 (Charlotte is 1 year, 15 days)
- For the last 6 months I've loved dressing her in hats but she appears to be done with this phase, I couldn't keep her flag hat on today.
She did have alot of fun with waving the flag!
pre 4th of July
This year 4th of July falls on a Saturday, which means the government mandated holiday (to all companies with full time employees) is null and void. There are two types of companies in this country: 1 - is a kind generous company who feels their employees should still get a day off and 2 - does not give a free day off (probably grits it's teeth and says I give too much anyway). I work for the latter type.
In a fit of mid-day desperation to be anywhere but work I called husband and requested a 5pm picnic on the beach complete with vanilla cheesecake with fruit on top. Would you believe that lovely man of mine complied? He's the best!
Evenings at the beach are lovely. We saw a rainbow, set up the umbrella when it rained lightly, once it stopped one of us went snorkeling (the one who brought the cheese cake of course) and baby had a smashing time playing in the wet cool sand. Oh and I had the opportunity to do my first Reach-inside-her-mouth-and-scoop-out-a-shell! I did quite well thank you, no panic, just reach, finger swipe in circular motion and comfort crying baby afterward who has mouth full of sand.
On with the photos:
Who says Mohawks are for boys?
In a fit of mid-day desperation to be anywhere but work I called husband and requested a 5pm picnic on the beach complete with vanilla cheesecake with fruit on top. Would you believe that lovely man of mine complied? He's the best!
Evenings at the beach are lovely. We saw a rainbow, set up the umbrella when it rained lightly, once it stopped one of us went snorkeling (the one who brought the cheese cake of course) and baby had a smashing time playing in the wet cool sand. Oh and I had the opportunity to do my first Reach-inside-her-mouth-and-scoop-out-a-shell! I did quite well thank you, no panic, just reach, finger swipe in circular motion and comfort crying baby afterward who has mouth full of sand.
On with the photos:
Who says Mohawks are for boys?
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
We survived
1. Two solo flights with a one year old
Surprisingly going & returning flights were each delayed two hours, a fact that almost sent me into panic mode because I'd timed her naps to the original fight time but found myself desperately hungry (probably due to stress) and had a chance to eat at the airport before launching myself and baby through security and into confined seating of plane. Miraculously she delayed her nap time and slept on both flights!
2. A reunion of family I haven't seen in 5 years
We picked up my 94 year old aunt from the nursing home and put her in the back seat with Charlotte. Surprisingly, baby was pleasant for the hour drive! While standing in line for food, the host sprayed a can of bug spray around the perimeter of food - nothing like bug spray on your picnic food! I don't remember much after that point until an aunt relieved me of Charlotte who shockingly sat quietly with her for an hour.
3. A trip to my mom's church
Not surprisingly Charlotte had a little too much fun (more on that in the post below)
4. Sunday with my family and two 9 year old second cousins
This day was particularly exhausting. First church, then lunch where baby got overwhelmed with 9 people at the table. I only remember wolfing down my food while holding Charlotte and leaving to changing a dirty diaper or maybe it was giving a bottle while everyone had dessert. Fortunately they saved some for me - my aunt's blueberry cobbler is NOT something to miss!
After lunch, Charlotte took a two hour nap during which I played Monopoly with two 9 year old second cousins, first cousin and brother - I can't begin to describe the chaos that ensued. My brother and I are Monopoly sharks but no one else had a clear grasp of the rules so the entire game was spent with our tutelage. I think with all the shouting I'd have preferred a nap with Charlotte. I remember telling one 9 year old he would lose a turn if he continued belching.
Once Charlotte woke up my stress level sky rocketed as both boys insisted on holding her, giving her a bottle, playing with her, etc! She didn't want to have anything to do with them and tried repeatedly to escape. Poor baby, we lead such a quiet life down here in South Florida, this was most unexpected. I thought 9 year old boys would be slinging mud and balls at each other - well the latter did happen but I wasn't expecting they'd both be so sweet and wanting to spend time with the baby.
5. Baby proofing my mom's house
Where do I start? I've barely finished baby proofing my own house, let alone more holes to plug, gate to set up so she doesn't hurl herself down the basement stairs, glass front door to keep locked so she doesn't push it open and get stuck, etc, etc!
Despite it all, my family is a treasure to be around and we'd love to have stayed longer. Also enticing is the soft grass, bunnies, squirrels and fire flies in my mom's neighborhood! How cool is that!?!
Surprisingly going & returning flights were each delayed two hours, a fact that almost sent me into panic mode because I'd timed her naps to the original fight time but found myself desperately hungry (probably due to stress) and had a chance to eat at the airport before launching myself and baby through security and into confined seating of plane. Miraculously she delayed her nap time and slept on both flights!
2. A reunion of family I haven't seen in 5 years
We picked up my 94 year old aunt from the nursing home and put her in the back seat with Charlotte. Surprisingly, baby was pleasant for the hour drive! While standing in line for food, the host sprayed a can of bug spray around the perimeter of food - nothing like bug spray on your picnic food! I don't remember much after that point until an aunt relieved me of Charlotte who shockingly sat quietly with her for an hour.
3. A trip to my mom's church
Not surprisingly Charlotte had a little too much fun (more on that in the post below)
4. Sunday with my family and two 9 year old second cousins
This day was particularly exhausting. First church, then lunch where baby got overwhelmed with 9 people at the table. I only remember wolfing down my food while holding Charlotte and leaving to changing a dirty diaper or maybe it was giving a bottle while everyone had dessert. Fortunately they saved some for me - my aunt's blueberry cobbler is NOT something to miss!
After lunch, Charlotte took a two hour nap during which I played Monopoly with two 9 year old second cousins, first cousin and brother - I can't begin to describe the chaos that ensued. My brother and I are Monopoly sharks but no one else had a clear grasp of the rules so the entire game was spent with our tutelage. I think with all the shouting I'd have preferred a nap with Charlotte. I remember telling one 9 year old he would lose a turn if he continued belching.
Once Charlotte woke up my stress level sky rocketed as both boys insisted on holding her, giving her a bottle, playing with her, etc! She didn't want to have anything to do with them and tried repeatedly to escape. Poor baby, we lead such a quiet life down here in South Florida, this was most unexpected. I thought 9 year old boys would be slinging mud and balls at each other - well the latter did happen but I wasn't expecting they'd both be so sweet and wanting to spend time with the baby.
5. Baby proofing my mom's house
Where do I start? I've barely finished baby proofing my own house, let alone more holes to plug, gate to set up so she doesn't hurl herself down the basement stairs, glass front door to keep locked so she doesn't push it open and get stuck, etc, etc!
Despite it all, my family is a treasure to be around and we'd love to have stayed longer. Also enticing is the soft grass, bunnies, squirrels and fire flies in my mom's neighborhood! How cool is that!?!
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