It's time to get my hair cut!! I was talking with a family member and she commented on how my hair was growing. Without really thinking, I responded with, yeah, and I hate it every second of the day. I hate the way it looks and how it feels.
Hrm. How do I really feel?
Despite the fact that they just got new toys, the girls are fighting over cardboard boxes on the day after Christmas. I love it.
I need to do my new year's resolutions. I don't think I did any last year. I was so busy. I think, I resolved, offline, to work less. I really have since this summer. I'm waiting for a new project to start at work. It was supposed to start in September. We're still waiting. Since we didn't get the money in 2012, and since the money is coming from a federal agency, we figure we might be waiting until the fiscal cliff is settled, fixed, or resolved. I'm not sure what the correct term is, I am pretty sure it is annoying that our government can be so lame to get into situations like the fiscal cliff.
I'm fine to work less, right now. I'm still teaching this year and having fun doing so, so until I get too busy, I'll keep teaching. I *hope* they figure out what's going on with our project before I get asked if I'll teach next year. If I'm working on the project, I don't know how I'll be able to teach and work at the same time. If I'm not working on the project, then I'll want to teach.
Oh, yea, back to resolutions. I was going to do some. There aren't that many of them.
1. Drink more water. I drink a lot of hot tea, but I should drink more water. I will make sure I do so. (Easy resolution)
2. Add one more strength training class a week. I currently do 2 most weeks. Eventually, I'd like to get to 5 or 6 a week, but we'll take it one more per week. If I get to 3 for most weeks, then yay!
3. I'm trying to figure out if I can "dance EVERY day" in 2013. Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays I already dance. Can I add in practicing just (a minimum of) 10 minutes a day? Would that count?
That's all I can think of right now. I'll make another post if I think of more.
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Highlight of my day
Being on the phone listening to a meeting while trying to 1) make lunch for my girls and 2) answer an email all at the same time.
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
We took a trip
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
i forgot to tell you
I forgot to tell you about the homemade twix bar experiement.....
The date mixture that you put inside is YUM, but it should be made in a food processor, not a blender. I tried to make it in my blender and there wasn't enough to get blended properly. This resulted in a tragic accident and me needing to buy a new tamper for the blender. I am still thankful that nothing more than the tamper was damaged. I was stupid!
I didn't measure my PB and added too much to the rice crispy mix so they weren't as crispy as I think they should have been.
They were sweeter than I liked (dates are VERY sweet--that's why they call them nature's candy), but the girls really liked them. We even had a friend over (age 8) and she loved them. I find that my kids usually like the concoctions I create for them, but other kiddos often don't. I tend to create very NOT SWEET treats. (We don't need the sugar and you definitely can get used to less sugar and enjoy the other flavors in treats.)
Will I make them again, um, yea, probably. They took more time than I wanted, so I might try a different treat.... I may remove this post, modify it a bit, and post it on "another blog" not the family blog with all the pictures, but a recipe blog for healthy, vegan recipes.
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Which shirt?
Where I get my hair done, we change into smocks and hang up our shirts in the bathroom. One of these shirts is not like the other (mine). Heh. I thought it was a fun picture.
Monday, October 29, 2012
No School Today
Crazy weather, but that's not what's keeping us out of school today. It's a teacher learning day. I'm thrilled that I'm working less right now. Because I am working less, I got to stay home with the girls this morning. We had one play date at our house (Three-a) and one play date away (oNe), and another one this afternoon (for twoK). I baked some healthy stuff, too. Later today, I hope I can get the time to make homemade twix bars. Don't they look YUM????
P.S. twoK's folliculits is getting better! Whew! No oral antibiotics have been taken thus far.
P.S. twoK's folliculits is getting better! Whew! No oral antibiotics have been taken thus far.
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Folliculitis is going to push me over the edge...
Or horseback riding...
or the special dance classes we're doing this weekend
or the two birthday parties this weekend
or the Halloween thing we went to Friday night
or gymnastics
or violin, trumpet, or piano lessons
or girl scouts
or regular dance class
or ice skating lessons
Seriously, we're too busy right now. Three-a just gave up gymnastics and I say, WHEW! When oNe gave it up, I was sad, now I'm just relieved--one less thing to do. twoK is still taking.
On the twoK note, twoK has folliculitis on her little bum. I'm sure she'd be embarrassed to have me writing this on the web, but hey, I'm not posting pictures. I'm cleaning the little lesions 3x a day and putting antibiotic ointment on them. The doctor wanted me to do oral antibiotics, but I think we can beat it with just topical. I'm not a big fan of oral antibiotics.
We're also soaking in epsom salt and putting hydrogen peroxide on them to clean them. Good times. I've gotten faster at treating them in the last 24 hours. We'll hope that she's better within a week.
I danced 3 hours today. I'm pretty wiped out! This post is a reflection of my exhaustion!
On the germ theory note, did I record that oNe had a cold along with me? It's such a weird cold. I was wiped out for more than a week. I think I've finally kicked it--it lasted about 10 days...
or the special dance classes we're doing this weekend
or the two birthday parties this weekend
or the Halloween thing we went to Friday night
or gymnastics
or violin, trumpet, or piano lessons
or girl scouts
or regular dance class
or ice skating lessons
Seriously, we're too busy right now. Three-a just gave up gymnastics and I say, WHEW! When oNe gave it up, I was sad, now I'm just relieved--one less thing to do. twoK is still taking.
On the twoK note, twoK has folliculitis on her little bum. I'm sure she'd be embarrassed to have me writing this on the web, but hey, I'm not posting pictures. I'm cleaning the little lesions 3x a day and putting antibiotic ointment on them. The doctor wanted me to do oral antibiotics, but I think we can beat it with just topical. I'm not a big fan of oral antibiotics.
We're also soaking in epsom salt and putting hydrogen peroxide on them to clean them. Good times. I've gotten faster at treating them in the last 24 hours. We'll hope that she's better within a week.
I danced 3 hours today. I'm pretty wiped out! This post is a reflection of my exhaustion!
On the germ theory note, did I record that oNe had a cold along with me? It's such a weird cold. I was wiped out for more than a week. I think I've finally kicked it--it lasted about 10 days...
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Sisters...
(Cue the song...Sisters)
Over the weekend, we had a moment where both MWH and I were slapping our heads and saying "REALLY? You guys are asking me to deal with this inanity (and insanity!)?"
We were leaving a festival and Three-a had stayed outside to play. twoK had come in and had gotten a balloon from the clean-up process. Three-a was upset that she didn't get a balloon. twoK offered her hers. So sweet. twoK gets a point there, but Three-a was too tired and NOTHING would console her.
Moving on...
twoK LOST points because she would't go through the haunted house at the festival that oNe had worked on. oNe was so MAD at twoK. The only thing that would console oNe was to have twoK scoop the cat litter boxes for oNe's week. I think scooping the litter box is a valid punishment for someone who broke a promise. twoK had PROMISED oNe she'd go through the haunted house and she didn't.
I want the girls to know that they can count on their sister(s). For the most part, the girls are good sisters, but like all sisters there are MOMENTS or even days and weeks of difficulty.
(Hey look, a blog post JUST about the girls. Whoa.)
Over the weekend, we had a moment where both MWH and I were slapping our heads and saying "REALLY? You guys are asking me to deal with this inanity (and insanity!)?"
We were leaving a festival and Three-a had stayed outside to play. twoK had come in and had gotten a balloon from the clean-up process. Three-a was upset that she didn't get a balloon. twoK offered her hers. So sweet. twoK gets a point there, but Three-a was too tired and NOTHING would console her.
Moving on...
twoK LOST points because she would't go through the haunted house at the festival that oNe had worked on. oNe was so MAD at twoK. The only thing that would console oNe was to have twoK scoop the cat litter boxes for oNe's week. I think scooping the litter box is a valid punishment for someone who broke a promise. twoK had PROMISED oNe she'd go through the haunted house and she didn't.
I want the girls to know that they can count on their sister(s). For the most part, the girls are good sisters, but like all sisters there are MOMENTS or even days and weeks of difficulty.
(Hey look, a blog post JUST about the girls. Whoa.)
Saturday, October 13, 2012
Eh...
(Started the post at the end of September)
It seems I'm only kind of back. That's okay. I'm doing this for me and for the girls' to read in the future; if other folks want to read along, great. If not, you probably don't even miss me when I'm gone. It's all good. I keep "the other blog" up and post pictures on nearly a daily basis over there. This is the "private" more inner thoughts blog. (And it's not that inner-thought-y any more.) It's a place to keep all the stuff that I don't want to put on the other blog though.
The girls are almost in a rhythm at school and I'm almost in one with my class. I keep debating on whether I'll teach again (if they want me) next year. I don't know. The chair of the department changed and s/he may not want me. I'm about to get really busy at work (within the next few weeks I'm guessing) and then I may not have time.
(10/13)
Okay, I am really, really bad at blogging over here.
Important update: I didn't have a cold on our anniversary. I've had a cold many times on our anniversary. I do have a cold now (got sick on Friday, but started Zicam on Thursday so it's not too bad). I hope I'm better by Monday. (This is another important feature of the blog... record of illness.) (Three-a had a cold 9/29) and maybe two already this fall (she's still coughing or coughing again, I'm to sure which).)
What else? The girls had conferences at school this week. oNe is doing really well. She's turned into an overachiever but she worries and stresses too much. My goal is to help her learn balance. And since I'm so good at balance (hahahaha) it should be really easy for me to teach her. (Again, hahahahahaha.)
twoK is super smart, a super good reader, but not super motivated. I guess I should say, she's not consistently motivated. Some days, she's on and other days, she's in a terrible funk. (Seriously.) I am trying to figure out what motivates her. Right now, she's super motivated by her Halloween Costume.
It seems I'm only kind of back. That's okay. I'm doing this for me and for the girls' to read in the future; if other folks want to read along, great. If not, you probably don't even miss me when I'm gone. It's all good. I keep "the other blog" up and post pictures on nearly a daily basis over there. This is the "private" more inner thoughts blog. (And it's not that inner-thought-y any more.) It's a place to keep all the stuff that I don't want to put on the other blog though.
The girls are almost in a rhythm at school and I'm almost in one with my class. I keep debating on whether I'll teach again (if they want me) next year. I don't know. The chair of the department changed and s/he may not want me. I'm about to get really busy at work (within the next few weeks I'm guessing) and then I may not have time.
(10/13)
Okay, I am really, really bad at blogging over here.
Important update: I didn't have a cold on our anniversary. I've had a cold many times on our anniversary. I do have a cold now (got sick on Friday, but started Zicam on Thursday so it's not too bad). I hope I'm better by Monday. (This is another important feature of the blog... record of illness.) (Three-a had a cold 9/29) and maybe two already this fall (she's still coughing or coughing again, I'm to sure which).)
What else? The girls had conferences at school this week. oNe is doing really well. She's turned into an overachiever but she worries and stresses too much. My goal is to help her learn balance. And since I'm so good at balance (hahahaha) it should be really easy for me to teach her. (Again, hahahahahaha.)
twoK is super smart, a super good reader, but not super motivated. I guess I should say, she's not consistently motivated. Some days, she's on and other days, she's in a terrible funk. (Seriously.) I am trying to figure out what motivates her. Right now, she's super motivated by her Halloween Costume.
I mean, who wouldn't be!
I told her if she doesn't stay super motivated and out of her funk, it is going back to the store. We'll see. I hate "bribing her" but I keep hoping that if she is acting happy, at some point, she'll just be happy... The whole "fake it 'til you make it" approach. I think, being happy is better than being sad, but as I said, I'm still trying to figure out how to internally motivate her. I'm spending more time in her classroom this year, and I think that's going to be good for her.
Three-a is super smart, a SUPER memorizer, but a sight-reader, not a phonics reader. Her current teacher's "thing" is to teach phonics and make sure her 2nd graders have a good grasp of them. I feel a little sad that Three-a isn't going to be in the top reader group, but I know that teaching her the basics will give her a better grasp on reading. (Or will it?) I have mixed feelings. I think is she weren't such a darn good memorizer, and so good at understanding concepts, the phonics might help her, but she's GOOD. I'm not arguing with her teacher on this one, though. I don't think it will hurt, and it might help. We'll re-visit this at the end of the year. (If I remember and if I'm still blogging.)
I plan to spend time in Three-a's class helping with technology. Woo! My favorite!
Work, for me... I'm teaching and the new project at work hasn't started yet. 11/1 is the new, "soonest" date that we have. I'm guessing we'll be going by 12/1. It's all good. I really enjoy teaching and it makes me excited to do the work that we'll do. This year, it's worked out well to get to teach first semester without much working.... I don't know what I'll do next year, but I'm not going to worry just yet.
I'm guessing, when puberty starts, I might start blogging here again. We'll see. For now... who knows... (Leave me a comment if you still read occasionally... I think most of you have a link to "the other blog.")
Sunday, September 09, 2012
Back
Here we are at a beach visit. We had gone to a fun touristy spot and then stopped at the beach to run around for a little while. We didn't stay long. Hopefully, we can have a beach day before it gets too cold.
OMG, it's September. I can no longer pretend school isn't going to happen because it is. The girls start their 4th week on Monday. For my class it's just week 2. How's it all going? For them, it all seems good. For me, nothing bad, I'm just overwhelmed with all I have on my plate, plus anxiety about the things I'm doing--teaching causes lots of anxiety.
oNe has a male teacher for the first time and she seems to really enjoy her new class. She's doing well. She's extremely motivated. I'm hoping it stays this way! TwoK has the same teacher as last year. She's doing well, but says she HATES math. She is getting a tutor to hopefully help her see math is fun and make sure there aren't any problems. I don't think there are, I think she's decided it's not girlie enough for her. Three-a has one teacher who has a great reputation and a new teacher (they are co-teaching). I guess the "new teacher" is really a fairly experienced teacher new to our school. I'm hopeful that Three-a gets a little more discipline in class. I feel she needs a firmer hand.
Three-a has learned she can get away with "stuff" by being cute and the youngest child. Yea, it's partially my fault, because for a long while, she never did anything wrong and she never needed any discipline... Now, she's not listening a lot of the time and she has ATTITUDE. She's always been independent. She's always been mischievous, but she's really getting a bit defiant. It's not a bad time to put more structure in her life. She's 7. She's got a lot going on in her little head, and now is a good time to make sure we have good habits forming.
Okay, there's more, I'm sure, but I should go work on my class. I only have about 45 more minutes of peace and quiet before the girls are up.
Monday, August 20, 2012
2 big things...
Back to school was today. Sigh, the summer is over. I'm not quite "back" to work yet. I went in today, caught up with a couple of people, and then decided to go home so I could be there at pick up for the girls. Yay for a short day! The nanny was there at pick up, too, but that's fine. I didn't know if I'd be busy or not. Better two people for pick up than zero!
The other big thing... It's my blogoversary!
I started blogging right after Three-a was born. It was crazy, and I wanted to remember the craziness. I was so sleep deprived that I knew I wouldn't remember it. These days, Isometimes always am a lame blogger, but I enjoy looking back at the archives. I hope in the future, the girls will enjoy the archives, too. I have a family blog and they love to look at it and reminisce. It's super fun to watch them read those posts. I don't have them on this one yet as this is still "my place" to vent. I rarely use it, but just in case I want to, it's still mine.
Okay, it's late and I'm tired. School again tomorrow. Only 179 more early morning wake ups before next summer. Bleh. I'm depressed.
The other big thing... It's my blogoversary!
I started blogging right after Three-a was born. It was crazy, and I wanted to remember the craziness. I was so sleep deprived that I knew I wouldn't remember it. These days, I
Okay, it's late and I'm tired. School again tomorrow. Only 179 more early morning wake ups before next summer. Bleh. I'm depressed.
Saturday, August 18, 2012
Thursday, August 16, 2012
Week 9: Noooooo!
I don't want summer to end; unfortunately, I don't think there is anything I can do to stop it from ending. I took a lot of time off work this summer. At first, it was hard because I'm not used to having time off. Now, I'm down with it. I don't want to go back. Monday, I have to go back to work. (Wahhhh!) My supervisor (:waves to PS) understands how hard it will be to come back. I'll do it to work with her on a fun project (for the next 5 years!) and then we'll see what happens. (I'm sure there will be something else fun.)
After the laid back experience of this summer, I hope I can take a decent amount of time off next summer. It's been super fun!
Back to the documentation of this week. My brother is visiting. We played with him a couple of days. We did touristy stuff on Saturday and yesterday, which was Wednesday. On Sunday, we took him to a fun (I hope he had fun) party with our wonderful friends (:waves to PS).
Today, oNe and I went to a dance class together. I love going with her right now. When she gets nervous, she holds my hand. How SWEET is that??? I wonder when she'll out grow doing that. I'd love it if she didn't.
What else... Monday we went swimming with a friend and Tuesday I pretty much finished my syllabus for my class (so I worked while the girls hung with the nanny). Tomorrow, we find out our girls' teachers for the years! Fingers crossed. (I found out about oNe's teacher; it's fine, good teacher, not the "best" but not bad and more importantly, she has a good friend in the class!!! Now just two more to go.)
On another note, I haven't talked much about our current nanny, but she's super. She started off as a babysitter two years ago and she's been gaining responsibility and working more and more. She was just out of high school two years ago and now she is so much more grown up. It's wonderful. I'm documenting here that we've been very lucky for the last two years in the babysitter / nanny department. I hope it continues. I should give nanny a nickname... NannyC is all I can come up with right now... I'm putting this down right now because a friend just texted about how she needs a new nanny. Nannies can be wonderful or NOT..... a good nanny is hard to find. We are lucky right now. We had our share of nanny issues in the past. Thank goodness when you find a wonderful nanny!!
After the laid back experience of this summer, I hope I can take a decent amount of time off next summer. It's been super fun!
Back to the documentation of this week. My brother is visiting. We played with him a couple of days. We did touristy stuff on Saturday and yesterday, which was Wednesday. On Sunday, we took him to a fun (I hope he had fun) party with our wonderful friends (:waves to PS).
Today, oNe and I went to a dance class together. I love going with her right now. When she gets nervous, she holds my hand. How SWEET is that??? I wonder when she'll out grow doing that. I'd love it if she didn't.
What else... Monday we went swimming with a friend and Tuesday I pretty much finished my syllabus for my class (so I worked while the girls hung with the nanny). Tomorrow, we find out our girls' teachers for the years! Fingers crossed. (I found out about oNe's teacher; it's fine, good teacher, not the "best" but not bad and more importantly, she has a good friend in the class!!! Now just two more to go.)
On another note, I haven't talked much about our current nanny, but she's super. She started off as a babysitter two years ago and she's been gaining responsibility and working more and more. She was just out of high school two years ago and now she is so much more grown up. It's wonderful. I'm documenting here that we've been very lucky for the last two years in the babysitter / nanny department. I hope it continues. I should give nanny a nickname... NannyC is all I can come up with right now... I'm putting this down right now because a friend just texted about how she needs a new nanny. Nannies can be wonderful or NOT..... a good nanny is hard to find. We are lucky right now. We had our share of nanny issues in the past. Thank goodness when you find a wonderful nanny!!
Saturday, August 11, 2012
Week 8: Please don't end!
Oh Summer, how fleeting you are. Is that what makes you so sweet?
Of course I wanted to blog more, but of course I didn't; of course, now I can't remember what other things I wanted to put on here so let's just record the highlights of last week.
All the girls went to the dentist. The receptionist scheduled their cleaning appointments one after another instead of all at the same time. Two hours were spent in the office. I was not a happy camper. Neither were the girls. I will always check to make sure we are scheduled in parallel and not in series.
I have the girls' start of school outfits. Woo. I bought them online a while ago. But of course, it can't be that easy. Three-a decided she didn't want the one I got. It had been so long, I figured I should return the outfit to the store to make sure they'd take it back (instead of sending it back). I am happy to report that we had a fast, successful trip to the mall. I haven't been to a mall in a LONG TIME. I haven't missed it. However, this last week, we went in, returned the items, found pants that the girls love and left. We did this in under an hour. The best thing was that though the store didn't have oNe's size in the pants, they ordered them for me and are shipping them to my house (free of shipping charge) since they were out of stock in the store.
We still need to get school supplies.
My brother is here visiting. Today we're going to go to a nice garden to walk around and see all the pretty flowers. This coming week, we'll do some other fun things. Look for a more exciting post for week 9. (Yea, we'll see.)
I am STILL working on my syllabus. I wanted to change some things. Of course, I had to go through EVERYTHING and determine what worked and didn't. I hope to finish by this week. #teachingisatimesuck
Totally unrelated, here's a super inspiring video. http://now.msn.com/watch-a-disabled-vet-make-an-incredibly-inspiring-recovery?_p=1b05ffda-4ea0-4e1e-8532-9863b2e33167 I am posting it here because FB SUCKS. I posted it in FB and now they are switching me to Timeline and in Timeline, you can't see all your previous posts. I had to google to find it. Grrr. Timeline is ugly and its mother dresses it funny.
Of course I wanted to blog more, but of course I didn't; of course, now I can't remember what other things I wanted to put on here so let's just record the highlights of last week.
All the girls went to the dentist. The receptionist scheduled their cleaning appointments one after another instead of all at the same time. Two hours were spent in the office. I was not a happy camper. Neither were the girls. I will always check to make sure we are scheduled in parallel and not in series.
I have the girls' start of school outfits. Woo. I bought them online a while ago. But of course, it can't be that easy. Three-a decided she didn't want the one I got. It had been so long, I figured I should return the outfit to the store to make sure they'd take it back (instead of sending it back). I am happy to report that we had a fast, successful trip to the mall. I haven't been to a mall in a LONG TIME. I haven't missed it. However, this last week, we went in, returned the items, found pants that the girls love and left. We did this in under an hour. The best thing was that though the store didn't have oNe's size in the pants, they ordered them for me and are shipping them to my house (free of shipping charge) since they were out of stock in the store.
We still need to get school supplies.
My brother is here visiting. Today we're going to go to a nice garden to walk around and see all the pretty flowers. This coming week, we'll do some other fun things. Look for a more exciting post for week 9. (Yea, we'll see.)
I am STILL working on my syllabus. I wanted to change some things. Of course, I had to go through EVERYTHING and determine what worked and didn't. I hope to finish by this week. #teachingisatimesuck
Totally unrelated, here's a super inspiring video. http://now.msn.com/watch-a-disabled-vet-make-an-incredibly-inspiring-recovery?_p=1b05ffda-4ea0-4e1e-8532-9863b2e33167 I am posting it here because FB SUCKS. I posted it in FB and now they are switching me to Timeline and in Timeline, you can't see all your previous posts. I had to google to find it. Grrr. Timeline is ugly and its mother dresses it funny.
Friday, August 03, 2012
Week 7: OMG the summer is ALMOST OVER
I'm thinking of making this the new picture for the top of the blog, but I don't actually have time to futz with changing things. Look how big they are! Look how blonde they are! (I had NOTHING to do with that.)
The picture was taken last week we went to a local little amusement park. It was too cool to go to the beach. The girls are big enough to go on all the rides all by themselves and they LOVE it! This visit was the first time Three-a could go with her big sisters on some of the rides. She had so. much. fun!
The picture was taken last week we went to a local little amusement park. It was too cool to go to the beach. The girls are big enough to go on all the rides all by themselves and they LOVE it! This visit was the first time Three-a could go with her big sisters on some of the rides. She had so. much. fun!
OMG, the summer is almost over. It's August. NOOOOO! I don't want summer to end and fall to begin. Okay, I do want a regular schedule, but I don't want to have the pressure that comes with fall. I also want it to stay (warm); I like the temperature it is.
Sigh, I guess fall is good. I'm sure I'll be fine by mid-October. I know it's going to be hard going back to work and school. I told you I took most of the summer off. It's been so good. I haven't gotten as much organizing done as I wanted (I need a deadline!) but, I've gotten to hang with the girls a lot. I think it's been good for me and for them. The organizing will always be there. My little girls won't be little forever.
So what did we do this week? Sewing camp for twoK and oNe. They made some more fabulous stuff. We had two play dates for Three-a. One play date was a bike play date and her bike is on its last legs! We decided to get her a new bike for her birthday. She's SO excited. Now, we need to go shopping for a new bike for Three-a. On her birthday she turns 7! How is that possible? (The blog turns 7 shortly after that, too. Maybe I won't forget my blogoversary this year.)
On Tuesday, MWH's car got hit... Ugh. Fortunately he's okay, but now he has to deal with getting it fixed and all the fun that goes along with that.
I feel like there's more I should record, but it's late and I'm tired. I'm going to go watch Heroes with MWH.
On Tuesday, MWH's car got hit... Ugh. Fortunately he's okay, but now he has to deal with getting it fixed and all the fun that goes along with that.
I feel like there's more I should record, but it's late and I'm tired. I'm going to go watch Heroes with MWH.
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Summer Week 6: Movies, babies, doctors, a day at the beach, and being a bum
Summer continues at it's lazy, but quick moving pace. It's crazy! On Monday we had Apple Camp, for twoK and oNe. Then, we went to visit a friend in "the city" and meet her new (now 2 month old) baby, to end the day, oNe and I went to our dance class.
Today, Apple Camp, again, a doctor's appointment for oNe. She has a nevus sebaceous and we wanted it looked at by a dermatologist. It all looks good so we wait. We can have it removed, or just wait and watch. oNe would rather wait and watch. I'd personally like it gone, but it's her head so we'll let her have some input.
Tomorrow, we have an eye exam for all the females in the family (check-up x 4!) and then a good teacher-friend (Ms. W) is coming over to play and learn on the computer. oNe and twoK are going to show her what they learned at camp. Super cool!
On Thursday, MWH and I are going to hang out, sans kids!!! Date afternoon! Woo!
For Friday, the plan is a trip to the beach, or somewhere fun.
Finally on Saturday, twoK and oNe show off their movie creations at Apple Camp (then gymnastics).
Someday, I'll do work again. Heh. For now, I'll be a bum. (I need to finish up a paper review and my syllabus.)
Today, Apple Camp, again, a doctor's appointment for oNe. She has a nevus sebaceous and we wanted it looked at by a dermatologist. It all looks good so we wait. We can have it removed, or just wait and watch. oNe would rather wait and watch. I'd personally like it gone, but it's her head so we'll let her have some input.
Tomorrow, we have an eye exam for all the females in the family (check-up x 4!) and then a good teacher-friend (Ms. W) is coming over to play and learn on the computer. oNe and twoK are going to show her what they learned at camp. Super cool!
On Thursday, MWH and I are going to hang out, sans kids!!! Date afternoon! Woo!
For Friday, the plan is a trip to the beach, or somewhere fun.
Finally on Saturday, twoK and oNe show off their movie creations at Apple Camp (then gymnastics).
Someday, I'll do work again. Heh. For now, I'll be a bum. (I need to finish up a paper review and my syllabus.)
Friday, July 20, 2012
Summer: Week 5
The lazy summer continues! oNe's arm is almost healed! It's been 4 weeks already! Whoa, that went too fast. (I'm so glad I'm doing these weekly blog posts... It'd all be a massive blur if I hadn't.)
Today, Three-a had a show at the dance camp she went to this week. Our original plan was to drop oNe off for a play date before twoK and I went to get Three-a. oNe was sad when I told her that as she wanted to see Three-a's show. How sweet is that? Needless to say, we re-arranged and oNe went to her play date after the show.
Earlier this week, I went down to [Big City] for 2 days and one night and met my new students for this year. Starting a new year is always so weird. OLU does orientation in a good way. It puts students who have just completed their first year in charge of the orientation for the new students. The students from the previous year "KNOW" what the new students need; the students who have completed the first year are patient, kind, and survivors. It's brilliant because the professors don't have to answer the same questions year after year. (You get tired of the same questions over and over again.)
twoK is at sewing camp and has really learned a lot in two weeks. Go see the other blog to see what all she's done! I'm so impressed.
Tomorrow we need to finalize our bathroom cabinets order for the new house. Then we wait 5-6 weeks for them. Given that, I'd guess we're about 2 months out from moving. I hope we can move in October. Of course, I'd originally hoped we could move RIGHT NOW, but we'll not dwell on that. I'm excited that installation on the new wood floor started this week!!! Woo!
After cabinets are ordered, I need to think about paint! I like thinking about paint much more than I like thinking about tile for bathrooms and cabinets. (Paint is EASY to change and pretty cheap if you get it wrong... tile not so much.) Then I have to think about new beds for the girls (we've almost picked them out) but I have to order them. Six years ago, we got this bed (read the post and click the link). It's been a super bed for 3 little girls, but they are growing up and we're going to get 3 loft beds with desks underneath them. A good friend is going to take the house bed. Super fun! I hope her kids enjoy it as much as the girls did.
Okay... time to go get twoK at camp.
p.s. driving to two different camps each day sucks.
Today, Three-a had a show at the dance camp she went to this week. Our original plan was to drop oNe off for a play date before twoK and I went to get Three-a. oNe was sad when I told her that as she wanted to see Three-a's show. How sweet is that? Needless to say, we re-arranged and oNe went to her play date after the show.
Earlier this week, I went down to [Big City] for 2 days and one night and met my new students for this year. Starting a new year is always so weird. OLU does orientation in a good way. It puts students who have just completed their first year in charge of the orientation for the new students. The students from the previous year "KNOW" what the new students need; the students who have completed the first year are patient, kind, and survivors. It's brilliant because the professors don't have to answer the same questions year after year. (You get tired of the same questions over and over again.)
twoK is at sewing camp and has really learned a lot in two weeks. Go see the other blog to see what all she's done! I'm so impressed.
Tomorrow we need to finalize our bathroom cabinets order for the new house. Then we wait 5-6 weeks for them. Given that, I'd guess we're about 2 months out from moving. I hope we can move in October. Of course, I'd originally hoped we could move RIGHT NOW, but we'll not dwell on that. I'm excited that installation on the new wood floor started this week!!! Woo!
After cabinets are ordered, I need to think about paint! I like thinking about paint much more than I like thinking about tile for bathrooms and cabinets. (Paint is EASY to change and pretty cheap if you get it wrong... tile not so much.) Then I have to think about new beds for the girls (we've almost picked them out) but I have to order them. Six years ago, we got this bed (read the post and click the link). It's been a super bed for 3 little girls, but they are growing up and we're going to get 3 loft beds with desks underneath them. A good friend is going to take the house bed. Super fun! I hope her kids enjoy it as much as the girls did.
Okay... time to go get twoK at camp.
p.s. driving to two different camps each day sucks.
Sunday, July 15, 2012
Summer: Week 4
The word of the week was individual.
Last week, I didn't send everyone to the same camp. I've always picked camps where they could all attend (well, since Three-a was old enough). They all went to the same place partly because of logistics; it's hard to do multiple pick-ups and drop-offs at the same time. I also liked the safety in number of all of them being together somewhere (without me) to watch over each other. The final reason was they would cry "life is unfair" if someone got to do something that another didn't. Even if they didn't want to do it, they complained about not getting to do it.
We're reaching a new stage where some little girls don't want to do things and do want to do certain other things. This new stage is pretty cool--except for the logistics of drop-offs and pick-ups.
twoK went to sewing camp last week. She made some super cool things. If you want to see them, go to the other blog (uh, soon, they aren't up there yet). oNe and Three-a stayed home. This coming week, Three-a is going to dance camp and twoK is going back to sewing camp. oNe is staying home. oNe is more of a homebody than her sisters. She wants to not go to camp, she's taking an extra dance class each week and gosh darn it, because of those things, it's fair (that she's not going to camp). I'm documenting it here so that, in the future, if there are any questions, I have an answer.
What else did we do last week? I don't remember. We went to the library, had a couple of play dates, and I'm getting ready for my class this fall. We all had to get up early for twoK's camp and we were tired. I don't know what we'll do when we have to go to school in the fall. Mornings suck!* Oh! One day, a friend of oNe's came over. The girls built boats out of cardboard. I got a treadmill and they box was huge. They had a blast constructing a huge sailing fleet. (We also had some other large boxes laying around.) Super fun!
The days are lazy but they are going by fast.
*MWH and I are staying up too late at night watching Heroes. It's a super fun series that we missed when it was out in first run. Now it's great because we can watch multiple episodes in one night. (They always end with such a cliff-hanger... Last night, we watched until 1:15 am. Oops.)
Last week, I didn't send everyone to the same camp. I've always picked camps where they could all attend (well, since Three-a was old enough). They all went to the same place partly because of logistics; it's hard to do multiple pick-ups and drop-offs at the same time. I also liked the safety in number of all of them being together somewhere (without me) to watch over each other. The final reason was they would cry "life is unfair" if someone got to do something that another didn't. Even if they didn't want to do it, they complained about not getting to do it.
We're reaching a new stage where some little girls don't want to do things and do want to do certain other things. This new stage is pretty cool--except for the logistics of drop-offs and pick-ups.
twoK went to sewing camp last week. She made some super cool things. If you want to see them, go to the other blog (uh, soon, they aren't up there yet). oNe and Three-a stayed home. This coming week, Three-a is going to dance camp and twoK is going back to sewing camp. oNe is staying home. oNe is more of a homebody than her sisters. She wants to not go to camp, she's taking an extra dance class each week and gosh darn it, because of those things, it's fair (that she's not going to camp). I'm documenting it here so that, in the future, if there are any questions, I have an answer.
What else did we do last week? I don't remember. We went to the library, had a couple of play dates, and I'm getting ready for my class this fall. We all had to get up early for twoK's camp and we were tired. I don't know what we'll do when we have to go to school in the fall. Mornings suck!* Oh! One day, a friend of oNe's came over. The girls built boats out of cardboard. I got a treadmill and they box was huge. They had a blast constructing a huge sailing fleet. (We also had some other large boxes laying around.) Super fun!
The days are lazy but they are going by fast.
*MWH and I are staying up too late at night watching Heroes. It's a super fun series that we missed when it was out in first run. Now it's great because we can watch multiple episodes in one night. (They always end with such a cliff-hanger... Last night, we watched until 1:15 am. Oops.)
Monday, July 09, 2012
Week 3 of Summer
OMG it's past the 4th of July. The year is more than 1/2 over. Time is flying.
In week 3, we got ordered the tile for the new house! I'm thrilled. Thinking about tile was sucking up a lot of my time. Now we just have to order the stone for our fireplace (but first we have to figure out if we're replacing our old fireplace or what....).
Poor MWH does so much on the remodel, and all I do is blog about my small contributions. (He needs a blog.)
Bleh... not feeling like blogging right now... Week 3 was a nice week. The girls were helpful and the nanny was on vacation. I enjoyed hanging out with the girls a lot. Week 4 (today) is starting off very grumpy. We all had to get up early today and we've all been no fun at all, myself included. We took a hike this afternoon and I must say I don't recommend hiking with 3 tired girls. NOT PRETTY.
I can't wait to go to bed tonight. More later when I'm not so grumpy.
In week 3, we got ordered the tile for the new house! I'm thrilled. Thinking about tile was sucking up a lot of my time. Now we just have to order the stone for our fireplace (but first we have to figure out if we're replacing our old fireplace or what....).
Poor MWH does so much on the remodel, and all I do is blog about my small contributions. (He needs a blog.)
Bleh... not feeling like blogging right now... Week 3 was a nice week. The girls were helpful and the nanny was on vacation. I enjoyed hanging out with the girls a lot. Week 4 (today) is starting off very grumpy. We all had to get up early today and we've all been no fun at all, myself included. We took a hike this afternoon and I must say I don't recommend hiking with 3 tired girls. NOT PRETTY.
I can't wait to go to bed tonight. More later when I'm not so grumpy.
Tuesday, July 03, 2012
Worth every penny (also money talks)
I am giving myself a genius parenting award.... (remember all is done in fun around here).
Yesterday, I needed some time to get some work done before we went somewhere and I needed to get the girls ready to go. I didn't have enough time to get both done and my "freeze time powers" weren't working. I reached in my bag of mommy tricks and offered each girl a dollar if they could get 1) their shoes on, 2) their hair brushed, 3) their water bottles filled, 4) their books to read, and 5) be in car before me. I gave them 10 minutes. They made it in like 7 minutes. We made it to our appointment on time and I got almost everything done that I needed to do! Woo! Go me.
I don't like to bribe them, but sometimes, it is necessary. We all get rewards for certain behaviors from our spouses, our friends, our employers, and whether we like it or not, this is part of life. I recommend using your bribes at strategic times so that they can be effective. If I did it all the time, I'd have to pay them for everything.
Yesterday, I needed some time to get some work done before we went somewhere and I needed to get the girls ready to go. I didn't have enough time to get both done and my "freeze time powers" weren't working. I reached in my bag of mommy tricks and offered each girl a dollar if they could get 1) their shoes on, 2) their hair brushed, 3) their water bottles filled, 4) their books to read, and 5) be in car before me. I gave them 10 minutes. They made it in like 7 minutes. We made it to our appointment on time and I got almost everything done that I needed to do! Woo! Go me.
I don't like to bribe them, but sometimes, it is necessary. We all get rewards for certain behaviors from our spouses, our friends, our employers, and whether we like it or not, this is part of life. I recommend using your bribes at strategic times so that they can be effective. If I did it all the time, I'd have to pay them for everything.
Monday, July 02, 2012
darn it...
The girls and I organized a set of shelves in the kitchen with their art supplies... I forgot to take the Before and After shots AGAIN. It looks somuchbetter!!!!
My girls are at such a good age... I can start the task of sorting and then leave them with the instructions on how to finish it, and then ask them to finish it and they will. YAY! Love it!!!
My girls are at such a good age... I can start the task of sorting and then leave them with the instructions on how to finish it, and then ask them to finish it and they will. YAY! Love it!!!
Friday, June 29, 2012
Summer: Week 2
We're still enjoying the lazy days, and we're very thankful that oNe can still do a lot of fun stuff! I'm really enjoying working less this summer. We still have a ton of stuff going on, but if we didn't, we wouldn't be us.
The girls are each taking a dance class, twoK is taking violin lessons, oNe was doing swim team, but now isn't (see broken arm), and twoK and Three-a are doing gymnastics. oNe is doing a Zumba class with me!!!! Wheeeee!
On the camp front...
oNe and twoK will go to an iMovie camp in July (for 3 days). I have booked one week at sewing camp for twoK. I haven't booked anything for Three-a yet; she'll either do a dance camp or a science camp (she's too young for both iMovie and sewing camp).
We may do a week of horseback riding camp in August... I'd like to get in a week of dance camp for all 3 girls, but I'm not sure if we can given the schedule for it and oNe's arm. Hrm... maybe I can do a week of dance camp the first week and a week of horseback riding camp the second week--need to think about this.
Let's see, other exciting news, I cleaned my desk and our room is cleaner than it has been in MONTHS. I still have a lot of rooms to sort through before our move, but I think our move is going to be delayed... It makes it hard to get motivated to sort and toss when I don't have a deadline. I need deadlines.
The girls are each taking a dance class, twoK is taking violin lessons, oNe was doing swim team, but now isn't (see broken arm), and twoK and Three-a are doing gymnastics. oNe is doing a Zumba class with me!!!! Wheeeee!
On the camp front...
oNe and twoK will go to an iMovie camp in July (for 3 days). I have booked one week at sewing camp for twoK. I haven't booked anything for Three-a yet; she'll either do a dance camp or a science camp (she's too young for both iMovie and sewing camp).
We may do a week of horseback riding camp in August... I'd like to get in a week of dance camp for all 3 girls, but I'm not sure if we can given the schedule for it and oNe's arm. Hrm... maybe I can do a week of dance camp the first week and a week of horseback riding camp the second week--need to think about this.
Let's see, other exciting news, I cleaned my desk and our room is cleaner than it has been in MONTHS. I still have a lot of rooms to sort through before our move, but I think our move is going to be delayed... It makes it hard to get motivated to sort and toss when I don't have a deadline. I need deadlines.
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Flip flops with support
Really intense good arch support.
Some are super cute. I just ordered 3 pair and I'll tell you more when they come.
Some are super cute. I just ordered 3 pair and I'll tell you more when they come.
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
3-4 weeks and an aura...
Good news!!! oNe only has to wear a splint for 3-4 weeks. She can swim in the splint (we have 2... one to be wet and one for dry). I must say, if you have to break an arm, a buckle fracture is the way to go. No cast! Short recovery! Yay! We'll still be able to have some summer fun.
Poor oNe, she had an aura yesterday. She described it to me and it sounds just like mine. Hers was in the upper left part of her visual field. She didn't really get a headache... She had a little headache and her head felt funny, but not bad. Darn...I wish she wasn't so much like me. And, this might mean the start of hormones. (I'm not ready!)
Poor oNe, she had an aura yesterday. She described it to me and it sounds just like mine. Hers was in the upper left part of her visual field. She didn't really get a headache... She had a little headache and her head felt funny, but not bad. Darn...I wish she wasn't so much like me. And, this might mean the start of hormones. (I'm not ready!)
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Broken arm...
Remember on Friday afternoon how we were going to the park? At the park, oNe went flying off her scooter and broke her arm. I knew instantly it was broken from her cries. It's a "good break" and should heal quickly. This site (and many others) say about 3 weeks of a cast. I am SO hoping it's only 3 weeks. I am so hoping we can get a waterproof cast. oNe is very sad.
Friday, June 22, 2012
3 days, 3 girls, and 3 cats
Whoa, posts made 3 days in a row. Don't be too impressed, this is a short one. I have to take the girls to the park. My nanny has been on vacation this week and I have been loving hanging out with the girls. I've also gotten more done around the house. I *should* be cleaning in my room right now, but I'm taking 10 minutes FOR ME. Then we'll go to the park. I'll clean later.
What else... I took all 3 girls and all 3 cats to the vet today. All kitties look good. Since C-cat I've been worried about the new boys. We've had them 6 months and they seem fine, but I figured I ought to get them in to the vet for an expert opinion. We took them to a woman who is a friend and a vet. We've never seen her professionally before, but I really am glad we went. She seems like a great vet. All the kitties got a clean bill of health and now I can worry a little less. I do love the kitties.
Thinking about C-cat* makes me so very sad. He was great. He was not with us long enough. I still miss my boy "Beloved kitty." Dang it... I wasn't planning on writing a post that would make me cry, but I just did. I think I was more worried about going to the vet than I cared to admit. I'm thrilled, for the moment, we have healthy kitties.
What else? That's all I got for now. Gotta go wipe the tears, take a deep breath, and go to the park.
*C-cat not to be confused with C-kitty who was MWH's kitty of a lot of wonderful years.
What else... I took all 3 girls and all 3 cats to the vet today. All kitties look good. Since C-cat I've been worried about the new boys. We've had them 6 months and they seem fine, but I figured I ought to get them in to the vet for an expert opinion. We took them to a woman who is a friend and a vet. We've never seen her professionally before, but I really am glad we went. She seems like a great vet. All the kitties got a clean bill of health and now I can worry a little less. I do love the kitties.
Thinking about C-cat* makes me so very sad. He was great. He was not with us long enough. I still miss my boy "Beloved kitty." Dang it... I wasn't planning on writing a post that would make me cry, but I just did. I think I was more worried about going to the vet than I cared to admit. I'm thrilled, for the moment, we have healthy kitties.
What else? That's all I got for now. Gotta go wipe the tears, take a deep breath, and go to the park.
*C-cat not to be confused with C-kitty who was MWH's kitty of a lot of wonderful years.
Thursday, June 21, 2012
How embarrassing...
Blogger's new input box for posts puts me in "HTML" mode by default. If I don't notice and if I don't stick in HTML breaks then I get a big box of text... Like yesterday. Sorry about that! Today should be better.
So I never wrote about moving? MWH found a wonderful house about 6 blocks from our current house. (We don't have to change schools.) In a state of weakness, I agreed we could buy it and remodel it. I plead temporary insanity.
Poor MWH has to put up with me whining. We're both pretty tired and overwhelmed by the remodel. We did a remodel before, but he forgot how all consuming it is. I remembered, but still I went along with it.
It's going to be a wonderful house. It has a slightly bigger backyard, will get sunshine so we can grow things, it has two apple trees, two apricot trees (that are in season right now!), one lemon tree, and grapes!
In the remodel we're adding a new small entry room / large closet that we're calling "the mud room" by the garage so we can put all shoes, backpacks, and etc. in there and then when we're ready to go to school the next day, voilà , it's there. It will also have a little bench seat for more storage of JUNK and to sit. Oh mudroom, how I imagine I will love you.
Other things that are exciting in the new house are: 4 bedrooms upstairs! 3 bathrooms! (Hopefully twoK and Three-a will share a room, oNe will have her own and we'll have a dance room... we're still working on logistics). We'll also have a guest room downstairs. Oh, and the best thing.... A walk-in pantry!!!!!!!
Actually, the best thing may be that we won't have horrible neighbors. (I've not really blogged about our horrible neighbor but I wrote a tiny bit here.)
Now we just have to survive the rest of the remodel. And get packed. And move. And get unpacked. And get settled. And realize we have no furniture that we want to take so we have to go shopping and spend money. It will be okay. It will all become a distant memory soon and hopefully MWH won't want to do it again!
So I never wrote about moving? MWH found a wonderful house about 6 blocks from our current house. (We don't have to change schools.) In a state of weakness, I agreed we could buy it and remodel it. I plead temporary insanity.
Poor MWH has to put up with me whining. We're both pretty tired and overwhelmed by the remodel. We did a remodel before, but he forgot how all consuming it is. I remembered, but still I went along with it.
It's going to be a wonderful house. It has a slightly bigger backyard, will get sunshine so we can grow things, it has two apple trees, two apricot trees (that are in season right now!), one lemon tree, and grapes!
In the remodel we're adding a new small entry room / large closet that we're calling "the mud room" by the garage so we can put all shoes, backpacks, and etc. in there and then when we're ready to go to school the next day, voilà , it's there. It will also have a little bench seat for more storage of JUNK and to sit. Oh mudroom, how I imagine I will love you.
Other things that are exciting in the new house are: 4 bedrooms upstairs! 3 bathrooms! (Hopefully twoK and Three-a will share a room, oNe will have her own and we'll have a dance room... we're still working on logistics). We'll also have a guest room downstairs. Oh, and the best thing.... A walk-in pantry!!!!!!!
Actually, the best thing may be that we won't have horrible neighbors. (I've not really blogged about our horrible neighbor but I wrote a tiny bit here.)
Now we just have to survive the rest of the remodel. And get packed. And move. And get unpacked. And get settled. And realize we have no furniture that we want to take so we have to go shopping and spend money. It will be okay. It will all become a distant memory soon and hopefully MWH won't want to do it again!
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Summer: Week 1
The girls have been out of school for one full week now. Our days are turning into lazy summer days. I don't yet have them signed up for camps. I feel it's sort of a radical, retro approach to summer; I want them to get a little bored. So far we've been productive this first week:
On Monday, MWH took the girls to the library so they could get lots of books for their summer reading. In the summer, we pay the girls to read at the rate of 1 penny a page. They have to read "age-level appropriate books."
On Tuesday, the girls and I totally cleaned out my car. It's shiny inside and out. It needed it.
Today, we went through their closets and drawers and pulled all their winter clothes and packed them away. We also cleared out the ones that don't fit any more to give away. All told, including winter and no longer fitting clothes, we cleaned out 10 (stuffed full) grocery bags (paper). This is really important 'cause at some point this summer we're supposed to move to our new house. (Did I tell you we bought a new house and we're remodeling it? I can't remember and I can't seem to find a post on it.)
Boy, do we know how to have fun on vacation, or what? I'm loving it. It feels good to spend time with the girls and cross things off the to do list. We've also been swimming (nearly every day), had a couple of play dates, and stayed up late. It's now 2:17 pm and 2 out of 4 of us are still in our PJs. To me, this is summer at it's best!
On Monday, MWH took the girls to the library so they could get lots of books for their summer reading. In the summer, we pay the girls to read at the rate of 1 penny a page. They have to read "age-level appropriate books."
On Tuesday, the girls and I totally cleaned out my car. It's shiny inside and out. It needed it.
Today, we went through their closets and drawers and pulled all their winter clothes and packed them away. We also cleared out the ones that don't fit any more to give away. All told, including winter and no longer fitting clothes, we cleaned out 10 (stuffed full) grocery bags (paper). This is really important 'cause at some point this summer we're supposed to move to our new house. (Did I tell you we bought a new house and we're remodeling it? I can't remember and I can't seem to find a post on it.)
Boy, do we know how to have fun on vacation, or what? I'm loving it. It feels good to spend time with the girls and cross things off the to do list. We've also been swimming (nearly every day), had a couple of play dates, and stayed up late. It's now 2:17 pm and 2 out of 4 of us are still in our PJs. To me, this is summer at it's best!
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Every day
Every day, I want to make a post. I think of something I should write about so I can remember it, and every night, after a crazy day, I forget.
The girls are super. I want to remember how much fun they are at 6, 8, and 10. I want to write down specifics so they can read the blog when they are older and laugh. But I find that I am just not doing it; I'm not feeling it. I'm documenting life in (bad) pictures, but not words on "the other blog." I haven't posted here for over a month. I have hopes that this summer will give me more time to post.
So what have I been doing the last month? I'm playing around with a new blog that will be devoted to thinking about food/nutrition (if you want to see it, let me know, but it doesn't feel "ready" yet so I'm not announcing it). I'm working less. I'm hanging out with the girls more. I'm working out more. We just had our dance show and it's the end of the school year so this last week was insane. I feel busier than ever despite working less. Oh, and then there is the remodel, (I think I told you we bought another house). Remodeling is such a timesink. (I may have gotten most of the tile for the bathrooms determined. Hopefully!) I'm looking forward to it all being done and us getting settled in the new house. (I really wish I had someone to organize my new house. Sigh, it's going to be me and I'm not good at organizing. I missed getting that gene!)
We're getting ready for end of school. Almost goodbye to 4th, 2nd, and 1st and hello to 5th (OMG that sounds so old), 3rd, and 2nd.
oNe is sad about leaving 4th grade. She has a super teacher who she loves. I am sad for her. It's rare that you find a teacher you click with and connect with so well. I'm thrilled that twoK made fabulous friends this year. She came out of shell a little as she took a ballet class and then danced in the show. Last year she wouldn't do the show. Three-a has a lot of friends. First grade was crazy fun for her. She always has a good time every where. That's our little Three-a. She's a great reader thanks to her super first grade teacher--we are so sad as there my not be a spot for her teacher next year, enrollment is low.
Okay, again, not feeling it on blogging, today. In the meantime, take a look at this funny "to-do" list. The 2012 equivalent of "crank phone calls." I read it to the girls and they really want to do the "time travel" one. Someday they will. I had to convince them they needed to do it when their parents weren't around.
Okay, for now... Hopefully I'll be back in less than a month.
The girls are super. I want to remember how much fun they are at 6, 8, and 10. I want to write down specifics so they can read the blog when they are older and laugh. But I find that I am just not doing it; I'm not feeling it. I'm documenting life in (bad) pictures, but not words on "the other blog." I haven't posted here for over a month. I have hopes that this summer will give me more time to post.
So what have I been doing the last month? I'm playing around with a new blog that will be devoted to thinking about food/nutrition (if you want to see it, let me know, but it doesn't feel "ready" yet so I'm not announcing it). I'm working less. I'm hanging out with the girls more. I'm working out more. We just had our dance show and it's the end of the school year so this last week was insane. I feel busier than ever despite working less. Oh, and then there is the remodel, (I think I told you we bought another house). Remodeling is such a timesink. (I may have gotten most of the tile for the bathrooms determined. Hopefully!) I'm looking forward to it all being done and us getting settled in the new house. (I really wish I had someone to organize my new house. Sigh, it's going to be me and I'm not good at organizing. I missed getting that gene!)
We're getting ready for end of school. Almost goodbye to 4th, 2nd, and 1st and hello to 5th (OMG that sounds so old), 3rd, and 2nd.
oNe is sad about leaving 4th grade. She has a super teacher who she loves. I am sad for her. It's rare that you find a teacher you click with and connect with so well. I'm thrilled that twoK made fabulous friends this year. She came out of shell a little as she took a ballet class and then danced in the show. Last year she wouldn't do the show. Three-a has a lot of friends. First grade was crazy fun for her. She always has a good time every where. That's our little Three-a. She's a great reader thanks to her super first grade teacher--we are so sad as there my not be a spot for her teacher next year, enrollment is low.
Okay, again, not feeling it on blogging, today. In the meantime, take a look at this funny "to-do" list. The 2012 equivalent of "crank phone calls." I read it to the girls and they really want to do the "time travel" one. Someday they will. I had to convince them they needed to do it when their parents weren't around.
Okay, for now... Hopefully I'll be back in less than a month.
Friday, May 04, 2012
A status update...
It's almost twok's 8th birthday!!!! Wow! She's so big. When she was born, she barely slept. Okay, don't feel too sorry for me, let me explain a little more. She slept GREAT at night (I think that's why we ended up with a Three-a). However, she didn't like to sleep in the daytime. Her little eyes were usually WIDE OPEN taking in the world pretty much all day. You could tell she was drinking it all in and that she was going to remember EVERYTHING. Indeed, she does. While she was awake, she wanted to be held; as long as you held her, she was a happy, sweet, snuggly girl. When you laid her down, not so much.
At 18 months, she was, um, stubborn. If you looked up obstinate, her picture was there. Up until about first grade, we had MANY, MANY battles. In first grade, something clicked and she became pretty rational; life got a lot easier with twoK. She might even be the easiest kid I have, right now. She's definitely the best reader and very responsible. Don't tell her though as she'll probably feel the need to change it. (I don't know, both she and oNe are pretty darn easy going. oNe is bordering on the tween years though and I am starting to get fearful. She definitely has attitude sometimes.)
Okay, twoK is big! And wonderful! Happy Birthday to you!!! We'll have a little party with her 3 best friends from school in a week. Tonight, she's going to get a trial violin lesson to see if she likes playing violin. She is going to be so excited!!!
oNe is being so amazing right now. I have to tell you how proud I am of her dancing. She is going to be in our dance show doing a really advanced number. Her class didn't have enough people in it to do the show so we got her moved up to the adult class that is a little more advanced than where she is, but still do-able. SHE LOVES IT. She loves challenges (like her Mom and Dad) and she is rising to the occasion. I am proud. There will be more documentation on the "other" blog.
Three-a, ah, my baby. She definitely has a case of the "I'm the baby and I'm going to milk it for all it's worth," going on right now. She's also experiencing a time when she wants to grow up, but she doesn't. It's hard to be 6. She's losing teeth... I think she's lost 7 now, but I'm not sure because she'll lose a tooth and she won't tell us. She's not telling us to test to see if the tooth fairy will or won't come; she's not telling us just because she doesn't want any one to know that she's lost a tooth. She, also, desperately doesn't want the tooth fairy to come. It seems odd to me. I've never known a kid to cry when they lose a tooth...Maybe the first time it's scary, but on the 5th, 6th and 7th teeth when you know you'll get a new one? Have you ever heard of such behavior? Let me know if you have any ideas on what I can do to help.
Anyway, in brief, that's where we are around here. How are you?
At 18 months, she was, um, stubborn. If you looked up obstinate, her picture was there. Up until about first grade, we had MANY, MANY battles. In first grade, something clicked and she became pretty rational; life got a lot easier with twoK. She might even be the easiest kid I have, right now. She's definitely the best reader and very responsible. Don't tell her though as she'll probably feel the need to change it. (I don't know, both she and oNe are pretty darn easy going. oNe is bordering on the tween years though and I am starting to get fearful. She definitely has attitude sometimes.)
Okay, twoK is big! And wonderful! Happy Birthday to you!!! We'll have a little party with her 3 best friends from school in a week. Tonight, she's going to get a trial violin lesson to see if she likes playing violin. She is going to be so excited!!!
oNe is being so amazing right now. I have to tell you how proud I am of her dancing. She is going to be in our dance show doing a really advanced number. Her class didn't have enough people in it to do the show so we got her moved up to the adult class that is a little more advanced than where she is, but still do-able. SHE LOVES IT. She loves challenges (like her Mom and Dad) and she is rising to the occasion. I am proud. There will be more documentation on the "other" blog.
Three-a, ah, my baby. She definitely has a case of the "I'm the baby and I'm going to milk it for all it's worth," going on right now. She's also experiencing a time when she wants to grow up, but she doesn't. It's hard to be 6. She's losing teeth... I think she's lost 7 now, but I'm not sure because she'll lose a tooth and she won't tell us. She's not telling us to test to see if the tooth fairy will or won't come; she's not telling us just because she doesn't want any one to know that she's lost a tooth. She, also, desperately doesn't want the tooth fairy to come. It seems odd to me. I've never known a kid to cry when they lose a tooth...Maybe the first time it's scary, but on the 5th, 6th and 7th teeth when you know you'll get a new one? Have you ever heard of such behavior? Let me know if you have any ideas on what I can do to help.
Anyway, in brief, that's where we are around here. How are you?
Thursday, May 03, 2012
so out of the habit
I want to blog more...It probably won't be pretty as I try to get myself back into the habit, but soon, I'll be back. (I hope.)
Tuesday, May 01, 2012
A day I celebrate
The day that changed everything. Back then, I had no idea what I was in store for, but I was excited. Now, oNe and I are getting ready to take a dance class together! She's so big. Happy 11 years, baby!
Monday, April 23, 2012
vegan?
Last week, we went to a nearby organic farm and we met a sweet little calf. She was alone in a little pen because she being weaned from her Mama so the farm could have more milk fro the Mama cow. The little calf was stressed and sad. She would cry when she was alone. This upset the girls. They thought it was WRONG for the poor cow to have to be by herself, away from her Mama. oNe doesn't like milk very much and this pushed her over the edge to become no-dairy.
oNe's not quite vegan, but she's getting close. She'll still eat eggs... We still plan to get our own chickens so we can be sure the chickens who lay our eggs have good care. She'll also still eat honey (vegans don't).
On a related note, I was shopping for shoes for the girls and just ordered these for the girls. OhMyGosh, they are cute. I kept looking and found these for me. Note, mine are vegan. I'm guessing the girls' are vegan, too.
I can't decide if I tell oNe about her shoes being vegan or not. If I do tell her, I run the risk of her never wearing non-vegan shoes again. I think I'll wait. I feel a little bad about not telling her about leather as she's eating the way she's eating for health benefits and to be kinder and gentler to the animals.
What would you do?
oNe's not quite vegan, but she's getting close. She'll still eat eggs... We still plan to get our own chickens so we can be sure the chickens who lay our eggs have good care. She'll also still eat honey (vegans don't).
On a related note, I was shopping for shoes for the girls and just ordered these for the girls. OhMyGosh, they are cute. I kept looking and found these for me. Note, mine are vegan. I'm guessing the girls' are vegan, too.
I can't decide if I tell oNe about her shoes being vegan or not. If I do tell her, I run the risk of her never wearing non-vegan shoes again. I think I'll wait. I feel a little bad about not telling her about leather as she's eating the way she's eating for health benefits and to be kinder and gentler to the animals.
What would you do?
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Really?
So, here I sit at oNe's swim team practice thinking like I am really old... There's a kid who is totally talking back to the coach and she's doing her best to re-direct him and he's lashing out at her. It's so sad. I don't know if his parents are here or not, but if I were his parents, I wouldn't be sitting on the sidelines not intervening. I realize the kid is having troubles swimming, and he's scared, it's his first practice, but the words he is saying to the coach are not nice. Wow, she's more chill than anyone I know.
Break
It's spring break here. It's also the end of my class! I started reading this book aloud to the girls. http://www.amazon.com/Dewey-Small-Town-Library-Touched-World/dp/0446407410 We're going to cry a lot through it or at least I am.
Tuesday, April 03, 2012
Covering all the bases (almost)
On Sunday, twoK snapped a picture of Three-a. It was great. twoK caught Three-a in mid-air with a precious, typical T, expression on her face...I loved it. However, Three-a told me:
1. I couldn't put it on the blog
2. I couldn't put it up in FB
3. I couldn't email it to anyone
Hrm...I just realized that she didn't tell me I couldn't get printed and framed....Heh.
1. I couldn't put it on the blog
2. I couldn't put it up in FB
3. I couldn't email it to anyone
Hrm...I just realized that she didn't tell me I couldn't get printed and framed....Heh.
Monday, April 02, 2012
NOT AGAIN .... Again!
The title is "not again" because I have a cold AGAIN! It should also read "not again" because the HORRIBLE student from last semester reared her ugly head. I hope my latest 3-page document will take care of the problem, but I wouldn't be surprised if I have a little more that I have to do. Whatev.
The Again! part is that I have reduced my hours at work! I did this once before in 2008. I'm happy with this change as I'll get to catch up on things (I hope), spend more time with the girls, work on remodeling our new house, and work on organizing us before we move. It's been a crazy 6 months.
Let's do a quick re-hash of the last six months. Here are the highlights:
1. I started teaching for OLU (again).
2. My Mom died in September.
3. MWH wanted to buy a different house.
4. We bought a different house.
5. Started remodeling different house.
6. Worked on big project at work.
7. Finished teaching fall semester.
8. Started teaching spring semester.
9. Pulled off HUGE project at work.
10. Still teaching.
11. Wrapping up huge project.
12. Took 5 trips (and I hate traveling).
13. Had 3 colds.
14. Really feel pulled in different directions.
15. Looking forward to a little rest and hanging with the girls. I don't feel I see them enough. (I see them quite a bit, but not enough for my taste nor for their taste.) Also, poor MWH.... I want to hang with him more, too. I love that tall blond* boy!
Everyone has a story... You know, when you run into someone you can kind of predict what they'll say. My story is always that I've got too many things going on. I know lots of other people who do a lot of different things, but their story isn't (necessarily) that they feel too busy. I feel like I'm always apologizing for something. I dislike that. I'm working on not feeling like I have to apologize all the time. I'm working on not being so busy, but I am a work in progress.
My "other story" is about healthy food! I'll be back soon to tell you about a modification to a recipe that made it SUPER YUM! It's now been "company-tested" by visitors. Some of the people I know well and some not so well and they all loved it. (Excellent. And still healthy.) It's a great, easy breakfast for when you have folks visiting.
*blonde is usually reserved for females and blond is for males is my understanding.
The Again! part is that I have reduced my hours at work! I did this once before in 2008. I'm happy with this change as I'll get to catch up on things (I hope), spend more time with the girls, work on remodeling our new house, and work on organizing us before we move. It's been a crazy 6 months.
Let's do a quick re-hash of the last six months. Here are the highlights:
1. I started teaching for OLU (again).
2. My Mom died in September.
3. MWH wanted to buy a different house.
4. We bought a different house.
5. Started remodeling different house.
6. Worked on big project at work.
7. Finished teaching fall semester.
8. Started teaching spring semester.
9. Pulled off HUGE project at work.
10. Still teaching.
11. Wrapping up huge project.
12. Took 5 trips (and I hate traveling).
13. Had 3 colds.
14. Really feel pulled in different directions.
15. Looking forward to a little rest and hanging with the girls. I don't feel I see them enough. (I see them quite a bit, but not enough for my taste nor for their taste.) Also, poor MWH.... I want to hang with him more, too. I love that tall blond* boy!
Everyone has a story... You know, when you run into someone you can kind of predict what they'll say. My story is always that I've got too many things going on. I know lots of other people who do a lot of different things, but their story isn't (necessarily) that they feel too busy. I feel like I'm always apologizing for something. I dislike that. I'm working on not feeling like I have to apologize all the time. I'm working on not being so busy, but I am a work in progress.
My "other story" is about healthy food! I'll be back soon to tell you about a modification to a recipe that made it SUPER YUM! It's now been "company-tested" by visitors. Some of the people I know well and some not so well and they all loved it. (Excellent. And still healthy.) It's a great, easy breakfast for when you have folks visiting.
*blonde is usually reserved for females and blond is for males is my understanding.
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Slightly revised Soup Recipe...
It lacks a name... Maybe creamy cauliflower and veggie curry? Right now, it's my new favorite soup! The PB makes it creamy.... Oh my, it's good!
1 32 oz. container of vegetable broth
~3 cups of water
2 bags of frozen cauliflower, carrot and broccoli mix (I get it from Whole Foods) -- note pull the broccoli out and didn't let it cook as long as the carrots and cauliflower (see directions) (You can use fresh veggies if you prefer or any mix of veggies that you like. I think zucchini and red peppers would work well, too.)
1 medium sized yukon gold potato, cubed into 1/2" cubes (or smaller if you like them that way)
1 chopped onion
1 - 15 ounce cans of chickpeas, drained & rinsed
1 26 oz box/can of chopped tomatoes
1 tablespoon of turmeric powder (don't be shy, but note that it can stain things!)
1 tablespoon of curry powder
1 tsp. of salt (or less if you have salt in your tomatoes / garbanzo beans and broth you may want less. I used low-sodium broth and no salt tomatoes and beans so I added 1 teaspoon. Check labels! Salt to taste!)
1/4 - 1/2 tsp red cayenne pepper (depending on how much kick you like!)
2 - 4 tablespoons of organic peanut butter (optional)
1 bag spinach and add the broccoli from the frozen mix instead
~1/2 cup of PB
Directions
Put liquid (broth and water) in a big stock pan.
Add chickpeas, cauliflower, carrot, potato, and onion and boil. Lose track of time because you are multi-tasking but note that they veggies are all pretty soft (most likely 20-30 minutes).
Add the spices and tomatoes and cook for a while longer (lose track of time--probably 10-15 minutes). (Also, add the chickpeas if you forgot to add them at the beginning.)
Add the PB and stir well... (Note, I can't remember how much PB I put in, but I like PB so I'm guessing it was at least 1/2 cup. Stick some in and see if it's enough... add more if you want.)
Serve in a bowl like soup, over rice, or with bread. This will be pretty thick. You can add more liquid (water or broth) if you want.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Favorite Day
Wednesday is definitely my favorite day of the week. First, I got to dance with the first graders and then at 5, I took my Zumba / Hip Hop class. Today, I took a little time off... I baked. I cleaned up my desk--it needed it. Stuff had spilled over on to the floor and out about 2 feet. No kidding. (I should have taken before and after pictures... Darn it!) It looks MUCH better now!
I also did an hour of work, a phone call on my current least favorite project. The best thing about the project is my supervisor is on it.
This is a lame post because blogger ate 1/2 of it. I had more stuff.... Stuff about the new kitties and I don't feel like re-writing it. I don't know WHAT happened to the half of the post that disappeared, but I'm moving on and doing other things. You'll get to hear about them later. They are fine. They are adjusting and doing well. We are so happy we have them. A family of 3 little blonde girls and 3 dark haired boys--just like the Brady Bunch. Heh.
I also did an hour of work, a phone call on my current least favorite project. The best thing about the project is my supervisor is on it.
This is a lame post because blogger ate 1/2 of it. I had more stuff.... Stuff about the new kitties and I don't feel like re-writing it. I don't know WHAT happened to the half of the post that disappeared, but I'm moving on and doing other things. You'll get to hear about them later. They are fine. They are adjusting and doing well. We are so happy we have them. A family of 3 little blonde girls and 3 dark haired boys--just like the Brady Bunch. Heh.
Tuesday, March 06, 2012
I needed that....
I have been really busy... You know... First Mom's death, then super busy with work, and teaching. I just finished another big thing over the weekend. Still not "done" but hopefully things will slow a bit more.
Today, I came home from volunteering at the girls' school, and I was preparing to do some work. But I was tired. I've gotten nearly 8 hours of sleep the last two nights, but last week was very busy and involved only about 6.5 hours of sleep a night and extra driving (I was commuting to a conference). So, today, I decided to take a power nap. When I got cozy and started to set the alarm, I decided, what the heck, no alarm, let's see how long I sleep! I took about an hour nap. Ah!
I don't know the last time I did this. I don't love naps because I'm groggy after them, but I think it was worth it today! It was good for me. I have been working so hard that I feel STUPID. I often can't remember things that I should. Sleep is important for solidifying memory, and I am not getting enough sleep. My brain needs some time to relax. I've had weird nerve things (e.g., numb hands and feet) going on for the last couple of weeks and that's definitely a sign that I should SLOW down.
(I know why the weird nerve things occur... If I didn't, I'd worry more. I know that it will get better if I rest and take better care of myself. I also know, there's nothing a doctor can do for me. I also know that B12 can help and I've been forgetting to take them. I remembered last night and today. Anyway, you can read more about the weird nerve stuff over here http://3littlegirls-ohmy.blogspot.com/2006/04/twitching.html if you care.)
Today, I came home from volunteering at the girls' school, and I was preparing to do some work. But I was tired. I've gotten nearly 8 hours of sleep the last two nights, but last week was very busy and involved only about 6.5 hours of sleep a night and extra driving (I was commuting to a conference). So, today, I decided to take a power nap. When I got cozy and started to set the alarm, I decided, what the heck, no alarm, let's see how long I sleep! I took about an hour nap. Ah!
I don't know the last time I did this. I don't love naps because I'm groggy after them, but I think it was worth it today! It was good for me. I have been working so hard that I feel STUPID. I often can't remember things that I should. Sleep is important for solidifying memory, and I am not getting enough sleep. My brain needs some time to relax. I've had weird nerve things (e.g., numb hands and feet) going on for the last couple of weeks and that's definitely a sign that I should SLOW down.
(I know why the weird nerve things occur... If I didn't, I'd worry more. I know that it will get better if I rest and take better care of myself. I also know, there's nothing a doctor can do for me. I also know that B12 can help and I've been forgetting to take them. I remembered last night and today. Anyway, you can read more about the weird nerve stuff over here http://3littlegirls-ohmy.blogspot.com/2006/04/twitching.html if you care.)
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Best advice EVER from my boss...
Me: I don't want to do _______________.
My boss: Just blow it off.
<3 her!
My boss: Just blow it off.
<3 her!
Sunday, February 26, 2012
A week
The girls had a week off from school. I love it when they don't go to school because I can sleep a little later. I dislike having to get up so early every day. They had a pretty low-key week, but not totally slug-like. They worked on their science fair projects (a little), played with the guinea pig who came home for break, cleaned a little, took a day to play with their parents (see other blog), ran errands with their parents (boring) (we're doing lots for the new house right now), and cooked.
This weekend, I cooked a little. No one wanted to help. Tonight, I made a variation on thissoup.
1 bag of spinach (or add chopped greens of your choice) I used the broccoli instead
This weekend, I cooked a little. No one wanted to help. Tonight, I made a variation on this
1 32 oz. container of vegetable broth
~3 cups of water
2 bags of frozen cauliflower, carrot and broccoli mix -- note I pulled the broccoli out and didn't let it cook as long as the carrots and cauliflower.
1 yukon gold potato, peeled, cubed into 1/2" cubes
1 chopped onion
1 26 oz box/can of chopped tomatoes
1 tablespoon of turmeric
1 tablespoon of curry powder
1 tsp. of salt
1/4 - 1/2 tsp red cayenne pepper (depending on how much kick you like!)
2 - 4 tablespoons of organic peanut butter (optional)
1 - 15 ounce cans of chickpeas, drained & rinsed (note, stick these in earlier)
My EASY directions
Put liquid (broth and water) in a big stock pan.
Add cauliflower, carrot, potato, and onion and boil. Lose track of time because you are multi-tasking but note that they veggies are all pretty soft (most likely 20-30 minutes). Add the chickpeas at the beginning (next time).
Add the spices and tomatoes and cook for a while longer (lose track of time--probably 10-15 minutes). (Also, add the chickpeas if you forgot to add them at the beginning.)
Add the PB last in case some people in your family think the soup will be better without it. (Note, it will taste MUCH spicier without the PB.)
Serve in a bowl like soup, or over rice. (MWH wants to add that it goes well with sour dough bread!)
Last night I made black bean and kale burgers... recipe soon.... (All 3 of the girls ate the burgers!!! Note, probably only about 1/6 a serving of kale per burger, but that's more kale than they usually eat in a black bean burger, so YAY!) I also made these again and I'll tell you about them later, too.
Sunday, February 19, 2012
twoK's turn
She says achoo, and sniffle. And cough. Poor girl. I'm hoping this cold doesn't go through all 3, but it's not too bad.
I was pretty miserable yesterday. I thought I was getting better Friday, but then Saturday was still bad. Today, I'm definitely recovering. Maybe twoK will burn through it faster. Little kids sometimes do. Or maybe it will hit her harder. That can happen, too. Boy, is this a fun entry or what? Don't answer.
Instead, I leave you with some quotes, or paraphrases of things I said while MWH and I were working on designing spaces for the new house.
1. 6 inches is NOT enough. I need at least a foot.
2. Is the space big enough to do the chicken dance?
3. Wow, this feels big, but is it big enough?
Yes, they were all about design. G-rated and all here.
(Also, for the record, twoK and I sold girl scout cookies today. Lots of them. Outside of a coffee shop. Did you see us?)
I was pretty miserable yesterday. I thought I was getting better Friday, but then Saturday was still bad. Today, I'm definitely recovering. Maybe twoK will burn through it faster. Little kids sometimes do. Or maybe it will hit her harder. That can happen, too. Boy, is this a fun entry or what? Don't answer.
Instead, I leave you with some quotes, or paraphrases of things I said while MWH and I were working on designing spaces for the new house.
1. 6 inches is NOT enough. I need at least a foot.
2. Is the space big enough to do the chicken dance?
3. Wow, this feels big, but is it big enough?
Yes, they were all about design. G-rated and all here.
(Also, for the record, twoK and I sold girl scout cookies today. Lots of them. Outside of a coffee shop. Did you see us?)
Friday, February 17, 2012
ah... choo
Thursday:
Ugh. I have a cold. It's not too bad, but it's sneezy and sniffly. And headachy. But not too bad. I'm hoping it doesn't get any worse than it is today. The cold I had in October got worse for 2-3 days before it got better. Let's hope this one isn't as bad.
I am pretty sure I got it when I was in 2nd grade (twoK's class) for the Valentine Day party; when I was there, the kiddos were coughing and sneezing all over the place. I'm thrilled that I didn't get sick during the very busy work time that was November - about a week ago. I'm sure that my body is a little worn down from all the stress. I worked really hard to stay as healthy as I could while I was busy. Moving on.
Oh, the other thing, my car got sick yesterday. It is still in the shop. It's got almost 100K on it, and I desperately wanted to see it turn over. It should with a little help. Again, just grateful that this didn't occur while I was really busy.
What else...
Friday:
The cold isn't worse than yesterday, but it's not better, either. My car should be back today. Next week is a week off of school for the girls! I'm excited. I'll take off some time to hang with them. I'm going to figure out something fun to do with them for next Friday (a whole family day--we'll get MWH to take the day, too!).
Note to self... write about the new house!
Ugh. I have a cold. It's not too bad, but it's sneezy and sniffly. And headachy. But not too bad. I'm hoping it doesn't get any worse than it is today. The cold I had in October got worse for 2-3 days before it got better. Let's hope this one isn't as bad.
I am pretty sure I got it when I was in 2nd grade (twoK's class) for the Valentine Day party; when I was there, the kiddos were coughing and sneezing all over the place. I'm thrilled that I didn't get sick during the very busy work time that was November - about a week ago. I'm sure that my body is a little worn down from all the stress. I worked really hard to stay as healthy as I could while I was busy. Moving on.
Oh, the other thing, my car got sick yesterday. It is still in the shop. It's got almost 100K on it, and I desperately wanted to see it turn over. It should with a little help. Again, just grateful that this didn't occur while I was really busy.
What else...
Friday:
The cold isn't worse than yesterday, but it's not better, either. My car should be back today. Next week is a week off of school for the girls! I'm excited. I'll take off some time to hang with them. I'm going to figure out something fun to do with them for next Friday (a whole family day--we'll get MWH to take the day, too!).
Note to self... write about the new house!
Monday, February 13, 2012
A good but weird day
I had a friend from out of town visit me at work--it was fun, but it's odd when you have someone you don't usually see in your work place.
My pilates workout was cancelled because my trainer was sick.
I left work early because I am not super busy.
All of those things are UNUSUAL, and two were nice. The worst was no pilates. I still have my dance class tonight, fortunately. Because it was such an unusual day, I keep feeling like I've forgotten something. I don't think I have, but you know, when you don't do a usual routine, it just feels odd.
Tomorrow is Valentine's Day! Ah, love! I have 4 super valentines. One tall, super husband and 3 short(er), but super daughters.
Part of tomorrow's festivities will include 2nd grade valentines! I'm the Room Mom in twoK's classroom and I get to plan their valentine party. I decided we should do chocolate fondue. I then had NO IDEA how I could get chocolate fondue to be melty at school so I bought this.* I'm super excited. I think it'll be fun for the kids. We'll dip fruit, pretzels, and a few other things and it won't be too sugary. Oh! I need to buy water for the party, still. (I should get on that, or I could get it on the way in tomorrow.)
One last valentine thing...For oNe's valentines for her class, we made them. Don't get all impressed with me as a crafty person, because I'm NOT, but we took pictures of their class pet and made 2 versions of a card. oNe loves this pet, and so do the other kids, but probably not as much as oNe, but she's delighted! I am too, and it's way more personal than the little cards you buy. twoK and Three-a have the generic cards, but they are so young that it's okay--or at least that's how I rationalized it. I'll work on something creative for them for next year.
Okay... Kind of a random post, but it was a random day. Also, I got nothing on the baking front, today. We were pretty busy this weekend, so I didn't get a chance to do those muffins I wrote about. Maybe I'll get to them, tomorrow, or Wednesday, or this coming weekend. On another note, I could give you an update on the new house, but I'll wait to do that later. I should go do a little prep work for my class. Hopefully a house update will be one of my next posts.
*PS, I'm thinking dark chocolate fondue will be a good dessert at a get-together, what do you think? It can be vegan!
My pilates workout was cancelled because my trainer was sick.
I left work early because I am not super busy.
All of those things are UNUSUAL, and two were nice. The worst was no pilates. I still have my dance class tonight, fortunately. Because it was such an unusual day, I keep feeling like I've forgotten something. I don't think I have, but you know, when you don't do a usual routine, it just feels odd.
Tomorrow is Valentine's Day! Ah, love! I have 4 super valentines. One tall, super husband and 3 short(er), but super daughters.
Part of tomorrow's festivities will include 2nd grade valentines! I'm the Room Mom in twoK's classroom and I get to plan their valentine party. I decided we should do chocolate fondue. I then had NO IDEA how I could get chocolate fondue to be melty at school so I bought this.* I'm super excited. I think it'll be fun for the kids. We'll dip fruit, pretzels, and a few other things and it won't be too sugary. Oh! I need to buy water for the party, still. (I should get on that, or I could get it on the way in tomorrow.)
One last valentine thing...For oNe's valentines for her class, we made them. Don't get all impressed with me as a crafty person, because I'm NOT, but we took pictures of their class pet and made 2 versions of a card. oNe loves this pet, and so do the other kids, but probably not as much as oNe, but she's delighted! I am too, and it's way more personal than the little cards you buy. twoK and Three-a have the generic cards, but they are so young that it's okay--or at least that's how I rationalized it. I'll work on something creative for them for next year.
Okay... Kind of a random post, but it was a random day. Also, I got nothing on the baking front, today. We were pretty busy this weekend, so I didn't get a chance to do those muffins I wrote about. Maybe I'll get to them, tomorrow, or Wednesday, or this coming weekend. On another note, I could give you an update on the new house, but I'll wait to do that later. I should go do a little prep work for my class. Hopefully a house update will be one of my next posts.
*PS, I'm thinking dark chocolate fondue will be a good dessert at a get-together, what do you think? It can be vegan!
Saturday, February 11, 2012
More baking fun...
I do plan to post about something other than my weekend baking adventures, but maybe not today... or maybe... I'd like to write about "other people's parenting" but I haven't quite figured out what to say. Other than I think that a lot of people indulge their children too much.
Of course, I am guilty of it, who isn't? However, I KNOW that if I didn't work, I'd be way more guilty of it. I live in an area where a lot of moms don't work. They focus, entirely, on their children. Some of these children are so indulged.
When I compare myself to other moms, I worry that I don't do "enough" for my kids. On the other hand, I think that by being busy with things outside the help, I need them to do more; this helps them learn useful skills they can use in their lives. The goal for this year is to help them be more in charge of their laundry. I'll let you know how it goes.
Maybe it's okay to talk about baking. Last weekend, Three-a and I baked so much and had a grand time. And, I think she learned things (TM). Okay... enough...
Back to baking! Here's what I'm going to try this weekend.
Chocolate Strawberry Muffins
Here are my intended changes to that recipe:
Of course, I am guilty of it, who isn't? However, I KNOW that if I didn't work, I'd be way more guilty of it. I live in an area where a lot of moms don't work. They focus, entirely, on their children. Some of these children are so indulged.
When I compare myself to other moms, I worry that I don't do "enough" for my kids. On the other hand, I think that by being busy with things outside the help, I need them to do more; this helps them learn useful skills they can use in their lives. The goal for this year is to help them be more in charge of their laundry. I'll let you know how it goes.
Maybe it's okay to talk about baking. Last weekend, Three-a and I baked so much and had a grand time. And, I think she learned things (TM). Okay... enough...
Back to baking! Here's what I'm going to try this weekend.
Chocolate Strawberry Muffins
Here are my intended changes to that recipe:
Ingredients:
10 medjool dates, pits removed
1 can (15 oz.) black beans
3 bananas
2 cups frozen organic strawberries, thawed
2 heaping tablespoons ground flaxseeds
¾ cup dark chocolate cocoa powder
½ cup whole-wheat flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1) Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2) In a large bowl, stir whole-wheat flour, baking soda and baking powder.
3) Then, in a cup or small bowl mix ground flaxseed with ½ cup water and let sit for five minutes.
4) Put aside dry mixture and in a Vitamix or blender, combine black beans, pitted dates, 2 bananas, cocoa powder, flaxseed gel (after sitting for the five minutes), vanilla and coffee extract. Combine this mixture with the dry mixture and stir thoroughly until all the flour is mixed into the wet chocolately mixture.
5) Chop up the 3rd banana and stir in for some fun banana chunks in the final muffins. Add whole defrosted strawberries (if there is “strawberry juice” in the bowl of defrosted strawberries, leave this out as it will make the batter too liquidy) and stir in these as well.
6) In a 12-cup muffin pan place cupcake paper cups and using a spoon, scoop in batter in equal parts. Bake for 20-25 minutes and serve warm.
I'll let you know how it goes.
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