I have a great son. I have an extremely active, sometimes a little crazy, and often times very loud son. He is three years-old. There are certain people who think that he should sit down, fold his hands, and be quiet. All the time.
Let me tell you a little bit about how I parent. I am tough. Having been a coach for over a decade, it is hard to hang up the whistle when I walk through the door. However, I have made the conscious effort to make my home a 'safe place' for my very energetic 3YO to be himself. Now, when we are out in public, if the entire store, theme park, etc, doesn't know my son by his first name, I feel it was a successful trip. Literally, I take every opportunity to tell my little buddy how to act appropriately in public. I am the parent who does timeouts in the middle of J.Crew and am the first one to admit fault when my child bumps into someone or something. I have been told that I am one of the strictest parents some of my friends know. And I like that.
For all my effort, and that of my husband, our kiddo is gushed on by his teachers, praised by our friends as one of the best behaved kids in town, and shocks people with his ability to take his punishments like a champ. Bottom line, my kid knows how to act. PERIOD. And if he shows out in public, we go home. PERIOD.
So when WMD is at home, I cut him a ton of slack. I am on him like white on rice when we are out and about and he gets away with nothing. But when we are at home, I let him go BAT-SHIT crazy. In other words, I let him be a complete, uninterrupted kiddo. He does get disciplined. But I am more likely to let things slide because really, who wants to be yelled at all day long? And quite frankly, I don't like yelling all day long.
So to the harshest of critics, who are constantly trying to make me feel bad because when I talk to them on the phone WMD is running around the house and screaming that there are crocodiles that are out to get him....suck on it.
My son went to Busch Gardens today. He held my hand or held onto the stroller the entire time. He rode a train, sat with his hands in his lap and made faces that made his baby sister laugh like crazy. He played well with other kids in the water park area and rode the Grover Alpine Express TWO TIMES without me sitting next to him. There were no temper tantrums, there were no timeouts, and when he ran into a little boy causing him to fall, he made sure he got up and said he was sorry. I taught him to look both ways before crossing the train tracks and he did it at every R/R crossing.
So the next time you try to tell a mom how to raise her child after you only get a brief glimpse of their life from a phone call or the 10 minutes you see them as you're passing through, please don't be offended when she rolls her eyes at you and pretends the words didn't even come out of your mouth. Because what you said (and have said many times) is just plain stupid.
Toodles.
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Retail Manners
I have worked off and on in the retail industry for around 15 years. It's never been a full-time thing; always a way to make a little bit of spending dough at my favorite clothing stores....and get a discount in the process.
One thing is true about retail - people will do exactly as they have been taught to do. So I thought I would put a list together of retail 'manners' for those out there who apparently have NEVER been taught anything of the sort.
1. If a store looks clean and tidy, it didn't get that way by magic fairies. I promise. The people walking around the store while you meticulously pull apart that well organized jean wall are those who will have to pick it all up....and do it again....after the store closes. RULE: if you can't find a size or aren't good at folding and placing things back neatly in place, ask for help.
2. Though you may think that the person behind the counter ringing up your purchase is just an extension of the computer they are working on, they are, in fact, human beings who would appreciate your attention while they take your money. RULE: get off your phone! You are more likely to get better service and catch anything wrong in your purchase if you aren't distracted. And PS: it is rude.
3. Everyone has a time in their life when they need something last minute and have to quickly run to a store to get it. Retail professionals get that. What boggles their mind is the person who comes into a store 30 minutes before closing time and proceeds to shop like time doesn't matter. Usually said person also manages to destroy an already clean store (see RULE #1) in the process. RULE: don't come into a store to do your leisure shopping 30 minutes (or even an hour) before the store closes. The bigger mess you leave, the longer the staff has to stay after closing to clean up - and having been on their feet ALL DAY, it's annoying.
4. Well-behaved children encompass the following characteristics: courteous, quiet, self-entertaining, potty-trained, able to stay next to their parents, don't whine often, and are able to use a kleenex properly (not un-purchased merchandise). RULE: if your child cannot behave themselves at home, what makes you think they can do it in a store? DO NOT BRING THEM. The retail professionals are NOT babysitters, romper room specialists, hazardous waste removers, or medical professionals. If your child gets hurt, gets yelled at, or poops on the floor it's YOUR problem, not theirs.
5. When a store is busy, especially during big sale weekends, monopolizing a retail professional's time is inconsiderate. Quite honestly, they don't really have time to care if you can't make up your mind over which sweater your grandma, whom they've never met, will like. They are more worried about the idiot who has let their child climb in a clothing rack and swing around like a baboon (see RULE #4). RULE: everyone can have an indecisive moment, but please be understanding that your universe is not the only one that has entered the store.
6. Returns. C'mon people....returning items on the busiest days of the year is just plain hateful. Nothing kills the ebb and flow of the retail dance better than the person who brings in their 15-piece purchase to return. Obviously, if things don't fit, don't look right, or are defective need to come back to the store. And retail professions are more than happy to help you get what you want. They do not, however, have time to do that on black Friday. RULE: save your returns for off-peak days and hours. It will make your experience more enjoyable as well as not cause headaches for those who are trying to help you.
7. Dressing rooms are a tricky thing. Do you put the clothes back yourself? Or do you leave them in the room? Or do you hand them to a retail professional to put back? Actually, all three are great options if approached correctly. You can put the clothes back yourself, but please, in the correct place and following RULE #1. If you choose to leave them in the fitting room, please hang them up and fold them. Same goes with handing them off. At the very least, hang them up. RULE: the dressing room is not an extension of your bedroom. The items you are trying on are NOT YOUR CLOTHES until you buy them, so treat them respectfully.
8. Bathrooms are a courtesy provided by a store. The same people that are helping you pick out your clothes and ring up your purchase are the same people who have to clean the entire store every night after the store closes. This INCLUDES the bathroom. Nothing angers a retail professional more than having to clean up someone else's fecal matter or toilet paper left on the ground. If it wasn't there before you got there, it shouldn't be there after you leave. RULE: clean up after yourselves you filthy animals.
9. Contrary to popular belief, those who work in the retail profession are smart, educated and talented people. It takes a lot of work to make things look pretty and polished.....especially those who walk in looking like a mess :-). So please keep that in mind. A lot of retail professionals have a college education or have been working as a retail professional for a long time and have either chosen this as their profession or are working part-time to supplement another occupation or are stay-at-home moms that need a little adult time. They ARE NOT people without brains. RULE: treat others as you would wish to be treated. Like equals. The service will be much better....oh, and don't assume that just because someone looks like they are 16 that they are actually 16. They could, very well, be 28.
10. Act like civilized human beings. They are just clothes, tvs, toys, or whatever. Material objects are silly things to get your panties in a wad about. You cannot take them with you when you die and you/your child/your husband/etc will learn to live without the item if you don't get it. PERSPECTIVE PEOPLE!!! RULE: act like adults. PLEASE.
Just a little thought for the day. This is dedicated to those retail professionals who have not been charged with murder......yet.....
One thing is true about retail - people will do exactly as they have been taught to do. So I thought I would put a list together of retail 'manners' for those out there who apparently have NEVER been taught anything of the sort.
1. If a store looks clean and tidy, it didn't get that way by magic fairies. I promise. The people walking around the store while you meticulously pull apart that well organized jean wall are those who will have to pick it all up....and do it again....after the store closes. RULE: if you can't find a size or aren't good at folding and placing things back neatly in place, ask for help.
2. Though you may think that the person behind the counter ringing up your purchase is just an extension of the computer they are working on, they are, in fact, human beings who would appreciate your attention while they take your money. RULE: get off your phone! You are more likely to get better service and catch anything wrong in your purchase if you aren't distracted. And PS: it is rude.
3. Everyone has a time in their life when they need something last minute and have to quickly run to a store to get it. Retail professionals get that. What boggles their mind is the person who comes into a store 30 minutes before closing time and proceeds to shop like time doesn't matter. Usually said person also manages to destroy an already clean store (see RULE #1) in the process. RULE: don't come into a store to do your leisure shopping 30 minutes (or even an hour) before the store closes. The bigger mess you leave, the longer the staff has to stay after closing to clean up - and having been on their feet ALL DAY, it's annoying.
4. Well-behaved children encompass the following characteristics: courteous, quiet, self-entertaining, potty-trained, able to stay next to their parents, don't whine often, and are able to use a kleenex properly (not un-purchased merchandise). RULE: if your child cannot behave themselves at home, what makes you think they can do it in a store? DO NOT BRING THEM. The retail professionals are NOT babysitters, romper room specialists, hazardous waste removers, or medical professionals. If your child gets hurt, gets yelled at, or poops on the floor it's YOUR problem, not theirs.
5. When a store is busy, especially during big sale weekends, monopolizing a retail professional's time is inconsiderate. Quite honestly, they don't really have time to care if you can't make up your mind over which sweater your grandma, whom they've never met, will like. They are more worried about the idiot who has let their child climb in a clothing rack and swing around like a baboon (see RULE #4). RULE: everyone can have an indecisive moment, but please be understanding that your universe is not the only one that has entered the store.
6. Returns. C'mon people....returning items on the busiest days of the year is just plain hateful. Nothing kills the ebb and flow of the retail dance better than the person who brings in their 15-piece purchase to return. Obviously, if things don't fit, don't look right, or are defective need to come back to the store. And retail professions are more than happy to help you get what you want. They do not, however, have time to do that on black Friday. RULE: save your returns for off-peak days and hours. It will make your experience more enjoyable as well as not cause headaches for those who are trying to help you.
7. Dressing rooms are a tricky thing. Do you put the clothes back yourself? Or do you leave them in the room? Or do you hand them to a retail professional to put back? Actually, all three are great options if approached correctly. You can put the clothes back yourself, but please, in the correct place and following RULE #1. If you choose to leave them in the fitting room, please hang them up and fold them. Same goes with handing them off. At the very least, hang them up. RULE: the dressing room is not an extension of your bedroom. The items you are trying on are NOT YOUR CLOTHES until you buy them, so treat them respectfully.
8. Bathrooms are a courtesy provided by a store. The same people that are helping you pick out your clothes and ring up your purchase are the same people who have to clean the entire store every night after the store closes. This INCLUDES the bathroom. Nothing angers a retail professional more than having to clean up someone else's fecal matter or toilet paper left on the ground. If it wasn't there before you got there, it shouldn't be there after you leave. RULE: clean up after yourselves you filthy animals.
9. Contrary to popular belief, those who work in the retail profession are smart, educated and talented people. It takes a lot of work to make things look pretty and polished.....especially those who walk in looking like a mess :-). So please keep that in mind. A lot of retail professionals have a college education or have been working as a retail professional for a long time and have either chosen this as their profession or are working part-time to supplement another occupation or are stay-at-home moms that need a little adult time. They ARE NOT people without brains. RULE: treat others as you would wish to be treated. Like equals. The service will be much better....oh, and don't assume that just because someone looks like they are 16 that they are actually 16. They could, very well, be 28.
10. Act like civilized human beings. They are just clothes, tvs, toys, or whatever. Material objects are silly things to get your panties in a wad about. You cannot take them with you when you die and you/your child/your husband/etc will learn to live without the item if you don't get it. PERSPECTIVE PEOPLE!!! RULE: act like adults. PLEASE.
Just a little thought for the day. This is dedicated to those retail professionals who have not been charged with murder......yet.....
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Do people really freak out like that?
One of the best parts of my day is the 1 1/2 - 2 hours of by myself time when I'm at the gym. If you haven't looked into it, I highly suggest to any SAHM to get a membership to a gym.....more specifically, one that has a child-watch area. I don't care if you don't like to workout, these places usually have free wi-fi and little corners where you can read books. I pay $32/month to get a workout in a couple times a week while some pretty awesome people watch WMD. The investment return is paying dividends to my sanity!
On that note. Today WMD and I went to the gym to get our daily break from each other. My workout went well. I'm enjoying doing 20 minute workouts by Metabolic Effect followed by some cardio. It makes lifting so much more enjoyable - I take my iPhone and some free weights into the basketball gym and rock out to some Ke$ha for 20 minutes alone. In my own perfect quiet.
When I went to claim my Kiddo from the child-watch room, I noticed he wasn't hanging out in the big-kid room.....which he always, ALWAYS insists on (the rooms are like fishbowls and you can see everything). I walked in to the main entrance and still couldn't find him. My initial response to this was a little fear....until I heard, "MOM!" from the corner of the room near the coloring table. He was sitting in the lap of one of the workers who I noticed had an icepack in her hand.
She immediately starts to explain what happened. WMD fell into the wall and bumped his forehead resulting in a HUGE goose-egg. The worker starts apologizing over and over again. And all I could hear was, "He fell and bumped his head on the window, we didn't know anything was wrong because he popped back up without a tear." YES! My kid is a tough guy!!!!! Like I didn't already know that, but I'm happy to know that he's not wussing it up around those who don't know him all that well.
So as I began to drive away from the gym I started to think about all the apologizing that happened. At least three people said they were sorry for the accident. Do parents really flip out on these lovely individuals who watch their children so much that they feel like they have to continually cover their arses? Don't get me wrong, had they not apologized I would have been crazy mad. But they looked scared that I would literally FREAK OUT on them.
My soapbox for the day. Kids play with other kids. Kids do dumb things with other kids. Kids touch things that are covered in germs. Kids jump off chairs, tables, and anything they can stand on. If you think for even one minute that you can stop any of that......well, my friend, you should just go ahead and check yourself into a loony bin right now.....because that's where you're going to end up.....going crazy trying to shelter your child from EVERYTHING! Good luck to ya!
Me and my goose-egg are going to go practice parachute jumps off the roof....just kidding! Have a great week....and don't take this parenting the perfect kid too seriously. Have fun, laugh loud and often, and remember, you're the adult, you're not going to get in trouble ;-)
On that note. Today WMD and I went to the gym to get our daily break from each other. My workout went well. I'm enjoying doing 20 minute workouts by Metabolic Effect followed by some cardio. It makes lifting so much more enjoyable - I take my iPhone and some free weights into the basketball gym and rock out to some Ke$ha for 20 minutes alone. In my own perfect quiet.
When I went to claim my Kiddo from the child-watch room, I noticed he wasn't hanging out in the big-kid room.....which he always, ALWAYS insists on (the rooms are like fishbowls and you can see everything). I walked in to the main entrance and still couldn't find him. My initial response to this was a little fear....until I heard, "MOM!" from the corner of the room near the coloring table. He was sitting in the lap of one of the workers who I noticed had an icepack in her hand.
She immediately starts to explain what happened. WMD fell into the wall and bumped his forehead resulting in a HUGE goose-egg. The worker starts apologizing over and over again. And all I could hear was, "He fell and bumped his head on the window, we didn't know anything was wrong because he popped back up without a tear." YES! My kid is a tough guy!!!!! Like I didn't already know that, but I'm happy to know that he's not wussing it up around those who don't know him all that well.
So as I began to drive away from the gym I started to think about all the apologizing that happened. At least three people said they were sorry for the accident. Do parents really flip out on these lovely individuals who watch their children so much that they feel like they have to continually cover their arses? Don't get me wrong, had they not apologized I would have been crazy mad. But they looked scared that I would literally FREAK OUT on them.
My soapbox for the day. Kids play with other kids. Kids do dumb things with other kids. Kids touch things that are covered in germs. Kids jump off chairs, tables, and anything they can stand on. If you think for even one minute that you can stop any of that......well, my friend, you should just go ahead and check yourself into a loony bin right now.....because that's where you're going to end up.....going crazy trying to shelter your child from EVERYTHING! Good luck to ya!
Me and my goose-egg are going to go practice parachute jumps off the roof....just kidding! Have a great week....and don't take this parenting the perfect kid too seriously. Have fun, laugh loud and often, and remember, you're the adult, you're not going to get in trouble ;-)
WMD's first haircut
Saturday, January 21, 2012
A month of a whole lot and nothing at all....
It's been a very busy month. But as I sit here trying to recall all that has happened since my last post, I am really struggling to remember any of it! I know that I enjoyed almost every minute. Almost.
A brief recap:
My wonderful Mom and older sister-cousin, LaLa, came to visit for the holiday. We had an amazing time relaxing, visiting and catching up. LaLa quickly became WMD's bestie, even posing for tongues out pictures. Every time the Kiddo woke up from a nap, his first word was, "LaLa?" Too funny! My Mom, who has always been such a great pillar of support, did not disappoint. She helped me keep this crazy house in order for a week (a new Household record!) and kept my sanity in check!
During their visit I blew out my plantaris muscle. At first I thought it was my Achilles tendon. Let me tell you, it hurt something AWFUL! Like I said, I enjoyed almost every minute of the past month. The part on crutches.....not so much.
Finally, our family went on a great ski trip to Lake Placid, NY. WMD took his first trip down a mountain on skis! Whiteface Mountain will forever hold a place in our hearts for one of WMD's best firsts! While we were there, we visited the 1932 and 1980 Olympic ice rinks along with the museum to go with them. We also went to the Olympic ski jump. If you've never been to a ski jump, I highly suggest that you go. Television does absolutely NO justice in portraying how high it really is. Holy Crap! If you ever get the chance to go to Lake Placid, I highly suggest it!
A brief recap:
My wonderful Mom and older sister-cousin, LaLa, came to visit for the holiday. We had an amazing time relaxing, visiting and catching up. LaLa quickly became WMD's bestie, even posing for tongues out pictures. Every time the Kiddo woke up from a nap, his first word was, "LaLa?" Too funny! My Mom, who has always been such a great pillar of support, did not disappoint. She helped me keep this crazy house in order for a week (a new Household record!) and kept my sanity in check!
During their visit I blew out my plantaris muscle. At first I thought it was my Achilles tendon. Let me tell you, it hurt something AWFUL! Like I said, I enjoyed almost every minute of the past month. The part on crutches.....not so much.
Finally, our family went on a great ski trip to Lake Placid, NY. WMD took his first trip down a mountain on skis! Whiteface Mountain will forever hold a place in our hearts for one of WMD's best firsts! While we were there, we visited the 1932 and 1980 Olympic ice rinks along with the museum to go with them. We also went to the Olympic ski jump. If you've never been to a ski jump, I highly suggest that you go. Television does absolutely NO justice in portraying how high it really is. Holy Crap! If you ever get the chance to go to Lake Placid, I highly suggest it!
Lake Placid, NY
WMD's First Tracks
I am sure that there is more that I am forgetting. But such is the life of a busy mom! Just thought I'd get back to posting. Hope everyone is enjoying the new year! More posts to come....sooner than later.....and I promise, way jucier!
Have a great weekend!
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Admittadly Lazy
Around September I made the effort to be productive. I bought a planner - and actually wrote things in it! I planned out my day from the time I woke up until I went to bed. Chores, workouts, dinners and activities filled my book and made me feel so good. I was doing great at keeping up with all of my projects and at the end of each day I would check off everything I completed with pride.
I've been told that it takes 21 days for a habit to form. I did the above procedure for two months and all it took for me throw in the towel was a little foot injury. In November, I decided that I would have to take it easy on the workouts (trying to figure out if I've blown my Achilles Tendon) and in doing so everything else landed on the back burner, too. This entire process has been a recurring theme for the past 3-4 years. And it needs to STOP!!!!
Every week since "The Quit" I have been trying to jump start my motivation. I go work out. I write stuff down. I make plans. I can't seem to make it past Tuesday. I truly have been beating myself up about the entire thing. I have put on weight. My clothes don't fit right. And I just realized that I have what Richard Simmons calls "The Hello, Goodbye Arm" - when you wave hello, your underarm waves goodbye. AH!
I know that by most people's standards I am not overweight. But I just don't feel good about the way that I look. Couple that with feeling like I have accomplished nothing by the end of the day and I end up not wanting to get out of bed in the morning. I've just given up (not with life, on motivating myself) and decided to be lazy? I say that like a question because I still can't believe that that thought is in my head. Me? Really? Lazy? I HAVE NEVER BEEN LAZY!
What to do, what to do. I KNOW that I need to get this bus back on the road (even if the bus is a little bigger than I think it should be). But my mind is telling me that the task of being productive is daunting and that I might fail. So let the inner dialogue begin.
I have never been afraid to fail. One of my favorite quotes is, "I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work," by Thomas Edison. I know that failing is something organic and has to happen in order for you to feel accomplished and satisfied. Nothing ever happens (or rarely happens) on the first try. So WHY am I struggling with the inability to motivate myself so much? WHY is the thought of failing, again, such a deterrent? It has never been in the past.
January 1st, like for most people, will be my D-Day. My DECISION DAY. It will be my day to decide if I want to take myself - mind and body - seriously. I know that the next week is not a time to for me to start a huge life change (and that is exactly what this is going to have to be). I am going to take this last holiday as the Old Me. I'm going to enjoy myself - but keep in mind that I will pay for anything in excess (so maybe I'll enjoy myself just a little less :-P).
I have been following my friend, Jill Coleman, at jillfit.com since she started (even went to a fitness competition with her once). I read her blogs almost every day and have her amazing workout book (My Gym Trainer, 2 - My Trainer Fitness Pub(2009)) full of great workouts. She truly is my inspiration to get this party started. Jill has a awesome way of making fitness and a healthy lifestyle look attainable without being psychotic about it. She is great at describing her process to a healthy and productive life. There's nothing overwhelming about it, just honest. I like that. I need to do that. It will be a part of my D-Day plans for sure.
Though Jill is a great motivator, I know this time my true motivation will have to come from within. This ability to be productive, fit and functioning is based solely on the work I'm willing to put into it. I know that there will be times of weakness, but I can't let those moments trump (for all you Euchre players out there) the process. I will have to take the lessons I've learned from every way I've found that doesn't work (not failing) and adjust my route to success. I know this will be a tough road at first and must not get discouraged when things don't go the way I want. I must forge on.
Not being lazy is in my future. Being the person I want to be is within reach. I see the golden ring, I just need to get off my lazy ass and grab it!
10 days and counting.
I've been told that it takes 21 days for a habit to form. I did the above procedure for two months and all it took for me throw in the towel was a little foot injury. In November, I decided that I would have to take it easy on the workouts (trying to figure out if I've blown my Achilles Tendon) and in doing so everything else landed on the back burner, too. This entire process has been a recurring theme for the past 3-4 years. And it needs to STOP!!!!
Every week since "The Quit" I have been trying to jump start my motivation. I go work out. I write stuff down. I make plans. I can't seem to make it past Tuesday. I truly have been beating myself up about the entire thing. I have put on weight. My clothes don't fit right. And I just realized that I have what Richard Simmons calls "The Hello, Goodbye Arm" - when you wave hello, your underarm waves goodbye. AH!
I know that by most people's standards I am not overweight. But I just don't feel good about the way that I look. Couple that with feeling like I have accomplished nothing by the end of the day and I end up not wanting to get out of bed in the morning. I've just given up (not with life, on motivating myself) and decided to be lazy? I say that like a question because I still can't believe that that thought is in my head. Me? Really? Lazy? I HAVE NEVER BEEN LAZY!
What to do, what to do. I KNOW that I need to get this bus back on the road (even if the bus is a little bigger than I think it should be). But my mind is telling me that the task of being productive is daunting and that I might fail. So let the inner dialogue begin.
I have never been afraid to fail. One of my favorite quotes is, "I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work," by Thomas Edison. I know that failing is something organic and has to happen in order for you to feel accomplished and satisfied. Nothing ever happens (or rarely happens) on the first try. So WHY am I struggling with the inability to motivate myself so much? WHY is the thought of failing, again, such a deterrent? It has never been in the past.
January 1st, like for most people, will be my D-Day. My DECISION DAY. It will be my day to decide if I want to take myself - mind and body - seriously. I know that the next week is not a time to for me to start a huge life change (and that is exactly what this is going to have to be). I am going to take this last holiday as the Old Me. I'm going to enjoy myself - but keep in mind that I will pay for anything in excess (so maybe I'll enjoy myself just a little less :-P).
I have been following my friend, Jill Coleman, at jillfit.com since she started (even went to a fitness competition with her once). I read her blogs almost every day and have her amazing workout book (My Gym Trainer, 2 - My Trainer Fitness Pub(2009)) full of great workouts. She truly is my inspiration to get this party started. Jill has a awesome way of making fitness and a healthy lifestyle look attainable without being psychotic about it. She is great at describing her process to a healthy and productive life. There's nothing overwhelming about it, just honest. I like that. I need to do that. It will be a part of my D-Day plans for sure.
Though Jill is a great motivator, I know this time my true motivation will have to come from within. This ability to be productive, fit and functioning is based solely on the work I'm willing to put into it. I know that there will be times of weakness, but I can't let those moments trump (for all you Euchre players out there) the process. I will have to take the lessons I've learned from every way I've found that doesn't work (not failing) and adjust my route to success. I know this will be a tough road at first and must not get discouraged when things don't go the way I want. I must forge on.
Not being lazy is in my future. Being the person I want to be is within reach. I see the golden ring, I just need to get off my lazy ass and grab it!
10 days and counting.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
The Choice To Be Happy
This morning I was thinking about my grandpa. He was one of my favorite people in the world.....also the smartest, if I do say so myself. I even named WMD after him in hopes that he would, one day, embody the kind, gentle, and loving attributes of my grandpa.
He passed away a few days before Thanksgiving over three years ago and I have thought of him almost every day since. At the time, I remember thinking that from that day on Thanksgiving would be a sad holiday - keeping the memory of my grandpa alive meant I would always be mourning. But something happened after the funeral. FAMILY.
That Thanksgiving was the first time in many many years that the entire family was together. There are only four grandchildren on this side of my family and I regard my cousins more like brothers than relatives. Obviously we spent a lot of time talking about all the wonderful memories we had of Grandpa. Funny enough, most of those memories revolved around one particular topic - Euchre. Oh man, did Grandpa love to play cards. And oh man, did he love to tell you when you weren't playing the right way. I think all of the grandchildren regard themselves as Euchre aficionados because of the tutelage from Grandpa (otherwise known as the "Now, why did you do that?" lecture).
What could have turned into a gigantic sad event actually became one of my fondest memories with my family. Instead of grieving my Grandpa, we laughed. Especially when my 80-something-old Grandma discovered the tatoo I had had for over 10 years. Even my Uncles got a kick out of that.... We talked, played cards and ate - like every good Italian family. I think those few days went exactly as Grandpa would have wanted them - no muss, no fuss and a lot of love.
One of my favorite quotes from one of my favorite movies Under the Tuscan Sun, "Do you know the worst thing about a broken heart? It doesn't actually kill you." There is so much to learn when someone you love leaves you. Punishing yourself for things you wish you would have said only gets you on a path that leads to more sadness. And who would want anyone to live like that? Closure doesn't exist. (The only episode of Friends that I wish never aired was the one were they talk about closure - after that showed on TV that's all anyone ever wanted and it simply does not exist.)
If I were to die today, I wouldn't want anyone festering over an argument we had or a comment that was made. I would much rather die knowing that you remember the good times. Because, bottom line, that's all I try to do.
So as we enter the final stretch of this Christmas season, I can't help to think of anyone who has ever lost someone they loved. It is a hard time, for sure. Remember, the sounds in the air are always joyous if you listen with an open and loving heart. The choice to hear is up to you.
Have a great day everyone!
He passed away a few days before Thanksgiving over three years ago and I have thought of him almost every day since. At the time, I remember thinking that from that day on Thanksgiving would be a sad holiday - keeping the memory of my grandpa alive meant I would always be mourning. But something happened after the funeral. FAMILY.
That Thanksgiving was the first time in many many years that the entire family was together. There are only four grandchildren on this side of my family and I regard my cousins more like brothers than relatives. Obviously we spent a lot of time talking about all the wonderful memories we had of Grandpa. Funny enough, most of those memories revolved around one particular topic - Euchre. Oh man, did Grandpa love to play cards. And oh man, did he love to tell you when you weren't playing the right way. I think all of the grandchildren regard themselves as Euchre aficionados because of the tutelage from Grandpa (otherwise known as the "Now, why did you do that?" lecture).
What could have turned into a gigantic sad event actually became one of my fondest memories with my family. Instead of grieving my Grandpa, we laughed. Especially when my 80-something-old Grandma discovered the tatoo I had had for over 10 years. Even my Uncles got a kick out of that.... We talked, played cards and ate - like every good Italian family. I think those few days went exactly as Grandpa would have wanted them - no muss, no fuss and a lot of love.
One of my favorite quotes from one of my favorite movies Under the Tuscan Sun, "Do you know the worst thing about a broken heart? It doesn't actually kill you." There is so much to learn when someone you love leaves you. Punishing yourself for things you wish you would have said only gets you on a path that leads to more sadness. And who would want anyone to live like that? Closure doesn't exist. (The only episode of Friends that I wish never aired was the one were they talk about closure - after that showed on TV that's all anyone ever wanted and it simply does not exist.)
If I were to die today, I wouldn't want anyone festering over an argument we had or a comment that was made. I would much rather die knowing that you remember the good times. Because, bottom line, that's all I try to do.
So as we enter the final stretch of this Christmas season, I can't help to think of anyone who has ever lost someone they loved. It is a hard time, for sure. Remember, the sounds in the air are always joyous if you listen with an open and loving heart. The choice to hear is up to you.
Have a great day everyone!
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
R-E-S-P-E-C-T
Do you remember when you were little and you were told to respect those who were older than you? Or did that only happen in my family? For as long as I remember, I was told by my parents that those who have lived longer (regardless of race, religion or creed) ALWAYS deserve your respect. I was never allowed to call my friends' parents by their first names, I was taught to always hold the door for whoever is behind me, and I could not get away with asking for something without saying 'please' and 'thank you'. I know at the time, I thought that my parents were tyrants, but as I am raising my own son I see the value in teaching your children the hierarchy of life.
WMD is 21 months old tomorrow. He says please, thank you, excuse me (though it sounds like 'ee me'), I'm sorry and have a nice day. And, for the most part, he knows when to use those phrases. He really likes excuse me....he says it all the time - to the dogs, the random people in his way at the gym, when he's trying to get around an inanimate object. WMD does not call many people by their first name (though, he doesn't really call anyone anything right now) and is, most often, introduced to new people with Mr. or Mrs. before their LAST name.
I met a lady at B&N the other day. Her three-year-old was playing with WMD around the Thomas the Train set. Her son was hoarding all of the toys and taking things away from my son. She did nothing. When I scolded WMD for not sharing, she looked at me and said "....they don't understand what sharing is at that age anyways." Holy crap, are you serious? I am the first to admit that WMD is NOT a good sharer. It is something we struggle with daily - especially since his new favorite word is 'mine'. But that doesn't stop me from trying - EVERY TIME!
So I guess the reason for this post is this - if you have a child and are not teaching them how to be respectful and courteous people, they WILL NOT BE respectful and courteous people. This is not something they will just pick up. Start early and practice often. I have no patience for children, teens, young adults (and especially people my own age) who are assholes. I'm getting to the point where I am not going to sugar coat it if I encounter them. So take this as your fair warning. I will correct your child, I will give you a dirty look if they are rude and I will point out what a bad parent you are - to EVERYONE.
Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, 1971
Time to jump down from my soap box. Tomorrow's hump day....time to buy some more wine!
WMD is 21 months old tomorrow. He says please, thank you, excuse me (though it sounds like 'ee me'), I'm sorry and have a nice day. And, for the most part, he knows when to use those phrases. He really likes excuse me....he says it all the time - to the dogs, the random people in his way at the gym, when he's trying to get around an inanimate object. WMD does not call many people by their first name (though, he doesn't really call anyone anything right now) and is, most often, introduced to new people with Mr. or Mrs. before their LAST name.
I met a lady at B&N the other day. Her three-year-old was playing with WMD around the Thomas the Train set. Her son was hoarding all of the toys and taking things away from my son. She did nothing. When I scolded WMD for not sharing, she looked at me and said "....they don't understand what sharing is at that age anyways." Holy crap, are you serious? I am the first to admit that WMD is NOT a good sharer. It is something we struggle with daily - especially since his new favorite word is 'mine'. But that doesn't stop me from trying - EVERY TIME!
So I guess the reason for this post is this - if you have a child and are not teaching them how to be respectful and courteous people, they WILL NOT BE respectful and courteous people. This is not something they will just pick up. Start early and practice often. I have no patience for children, teens, young adults (and especially people my own age) who are assholes. I'm getting to the point where I am not going to sugar coat it if I encounter them. So take this as your fair warning. I will correct your child, I will give you a dirty look if they are rude and I will point out what a bad parent you are - to EVERYONE.
Time to jump down from my soap box. Tomorrow's hump day....time to buy some more wine!
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Swollen Lip
The Kiddo gave me an early Christmas present last night.....a swollen lip. I would like to tell you that it was from a fun game of "rough housing", but it wasn't. I got hit in the mouth by a flying remote control. Some kids bite, some kids hit, some kids push....WMD throws. Yep, he's my child 100%.
Unfortunately for WMD, this was not my first run-in with a remote control. As soon as the rectangular piece of plastic pressed my lip into my tooth I was instantly reminded of a time when Bernadette Peters threw a remote control at my face. That one, however, was part metal. And left a HUGE bruise. Oh, how times have changed. So I guess that I'm thankful that remote control manufacturing has come a lone way in 20 years.
Like I said, unfortunately for WMD the scar from my previous encounter was still fresh (or repressed). By the look on the Kiddo's face, I'm pretty sure that my alter ego - Esmeralda - emerged in a fit of rage. I would liken this character to the Incredible Hulk. Invincible strength and an uncontrollable temper followed with a hint of rationality. Luckily, I don't turn that hideous green color. Though, I would not mind the ripped physique.
Anyways, I flew across the couch so fast that all WMD could see was a blur coming toward him. (I'm sure that if it would have been clocked, not even a cheetah could have caught me). I picked up the Kiddo by his shoulders and stared at him with my teeth showing. I had turned into a full-fledged mad woman. Esmeralda flashed back to what she would have like to do when she previously in this predicament - which was throw Bernadette Peters out a window, though I'm pretty sure my mom would have grounded me for that. Muscles were pulsating and steam was coming out of my ears. I could have done it. But alas, the hint of rationality. BP and WMD are not the same person. And the intention of the action, though so eerily similar, were not the same. And, WMD is pretty cute. So to the time-out chair he went. Kicking and screaming. Fun times!
I share this story because I am learning how to process the anger and crazy-mad feelings that come out when you are at home with a very opinionated and active toddler. He tests me. Every minute. And the test is not getting any easier with time. Quite the contrary. It is getting harder. Sometimes there is so much emotion and information that my brain feels like it's going to short-circuit (enter Esmeralda).
From what people have told me, these moments happen to everyone. Just that no one likes to talk about it (or write it down). So I'm putting it out there. I can get "off my rocker" mad at my son. And there are times that I question this whole parenting thing. But bottom line - he's the cutest, sweetest and funniest kid I know. Life without him would be miserable.
So on the day before Thanksgiving here is yet another reason to be thankful. I am thankful for the part of my brain that processes rationality. For the ability to see right from wrong and good from bad. I am thankful for having WAY more great than awful in my life. And I will forever be indebted to my husband for giving me the biggest test of my life - even if it's the hardest test I will ever take. Ahhhh, parenthood, ain't it grand?
Happy hump day!
Unfortunately for WMD, this was not my first run-in with a remote control. As soon as the rectangular piece of plastic pressed my lip into my tooth I was instantly reminded of a time when Bernadette Peters threw a remote control at my face. That one, however, was part metal. And left a HUGE bruise. Oh, how times have changed. So I guess that I'm thankful that remote control manufacturing has come a lone way in 20 years.
Like I said, unfortunately for WMD the scar from my previous encounter was still fresh (or repressed). By the look on the Kiddo's face, I'm pretty sure that my alter ego - Esmeralda - emerged in a fit of rage. I would liken this character to the Incredible Hulk. Invincible strength and an uncontrollable temper followed with a hint of rationality. Luckily, I don't turn that hideous green color. Though, I would not mind the ripped physique.
Anyways, I flew across the couch so fast that all WMD could see was a blur coming toward him. (I'm sure that if it would have been clocked, not even a cheetah could have caught me). I picked up the Kiddo by his shoulders and stared at him with my teeth showing. I had turned into a full-fledged mad woman. Esmeralda flashed back to what she would have like to do when she previously in this predicament - which was throw Bernadette Peters out a window, though I'm pretty sure my mom would have grounded me for that. Muscles were pulsating and steam was coming out of my ears. I could have done it. But alas, the hint of rationality. BP and WMD are not the same person. And the intention of the action, though so eerily similar, were not the same. And, WMD is pretty cute. So to the time-out chair he went. Kicking and screaming. Fun times!
I share this story because I am learning how to process the anger and crazy-mad feelings that come out when you are at home with a very opinionated and active toddler. He tests me. Every minute. And the test is not getting any easier with time. Quite the contrary. It is getting harder. Sometimes there is so much emotion and information that my brain feels like it's going to short-circuit (enter Esmeralda).
From what people have told me, these moments happen to everyone. Just that no one likes to talk about it (or write it down). So I'm putting it out there. I can get "off my rocker" mad at my son. And there are times that I question this whole parenting thing. But bottom line - he's the cutest, sweetest and funniest kid I know. Life without him would be miserable.
So on the day before Thanksgiving here is yet another reason to be thankful. I am thankful for the part of my brain that processes rationality. For the ability to see right from wrong and good from bad. I am thankful for having WAY more great than awful in my life. And I will forever be indebted to my husband for giving me the biggest test of my life - even if it's the hardest test I will ever take. Ahhhh, parenthood, ain't it grand?
Happy hump day!
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Is it Christmas already?.....NO!
I was at the mall yesterday and was overwhelmed with the amount of Christmas that was thrown in my face upon entering a few of the stores. Does anyone else out there find this to be completely ridiculous? It's not even Thanksgiving yet.
Remember when we were younger and there used to be excitement about Thanksgiving? Now it seems to be looked at as just another big meal - the assumption that all families make these big meals more often is insane to me. Wasn't the whole purpose of this holiday to get people to be thankful for what they have? What they've been blessed with? And what got our wonderful country to this point? I guess now that our country is full of people who think they are entitled to EVERYTHING no one needs to be thankful. Just greedy and spoiled. Sad, sad, sad.
I'm going to spend the next week teaching WMD what it means to be thankful. There are a slew of great ideas out there - hello, Pinterest! We are first going to start with a Thankful Tree (or branches, really). Everyday we are going to put a leaf on the tree that says what we are thankful for.
We will follow that up with a little unsolicited, anonymous generosity. I found out about a great organization called Just Bee Generous through WMD's music school. It's a great way to teach your children that giving does NOT always have to be reciprocated. Sometimes the best thing to get in return is the good feeling of just helping someone out or just being nice. Check this out! The lady who runs it (anonymously, no less) is fantastic and sends you the cards for free!
The Kiddo and I are going to actively look for ways to express our thanks. I have made it a point for WMD to know how to say 'please' and 'thank you', and he already knows how to use them without being prompted (he is only 20-months old, so for people to say that this is something that children don't understand until they are older is just silly - your child will only learn if YOU TEACH THEM). Practice makes perfect, and the next week is going to be a great lesson for him - and me, too!
I will admit, I have gotten into the Christmas spirit just a little. But I think it's just smart purchasing on my part. Why shouldn't I take advantage of the great sales? But why do they have to be Christmas sales? Maybe a different marketing plan would work? I don't know....Nordstroms has a great policy when it comes to the holidays (taken from a sign posted at their store):
We won't be decking our halls until Friday, November 27.
Why? Well, we like to celebrate one holiday at a time.
From our family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving.
When you start thinking about the holidays, remember that there is a big one coming up in just a little over a week. A holiday that is a time for reflection and a great time to teach and learn. Don't skip it. Especially if you have children. This is the perfect opportunity for you to teach others about what it means to be kind, generous, and thankful.
Have a great day! Happy hump day!!
Remember when we were younger and there used to be excitement about Thanksgiving? Now it seems to be looked at as just another big meal - the assumption that all families make these big meals more often is insane to me. Wasn't the whole purpose of this holiday to get people to be thankful for what they have? What they've been blessed with? And what got our wonderful country to this point? I guess now that our country is full of people who think they are entitled to EVERYTHING no one needs to be thankful. Just greedy and spoiled. Sad, sad, sad.
I'm going to spend the next week teaching WMD what it means to be thankful. There are a slew of great ideas out there - hello, Pinterest! We are first going to start with a Thankful Tree (or branches, really). Everyday we are going to put a leaf on the tree that says what we are thankful for.
We will follow that up with a little unsolicited, anonymous generosity. I found out about a great organization called Just Bee Generous through WMD's music school. It's a great way to teach your children that giving does NOT always have to be reciprocated. Sometimes the best thing to get in return is the good feeling of just helping someone out or just being nice. Check this out! The lady who runs it (anonymously, no less) is fantastic and sends you the cards for free!
The Kiddo and I are going to actively look for ways to express our thanks. I have made it a point for WMD to know how to say 'please' and 'thank you', and he already knows how to use them without being prompted (he is only 20-months old, so for people to say that this is something that children don't understand until they are older is just silly - your child will only learn if YOU TEACH THEM). Practice makes perfect, and the next week is going to be a great lesson for him - and me, too!
I will admit, I have gotten into the Christmas spirit just a little. But I think it's just smart purchasing on my part. Why shouldn't I take advantage of the great sales? But why do they have to be Christmas sales? Maybe a different marketing plan would work? I don't know....Nordstroms has a great policy when it comes to the holidays (taken from a sign posted at their store):
at Nordstrom.....
We won't be decking our halls until Friday, November 27.
Why? Well, we like to celebrate one holiday at a time.
From our family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving.
When you start thinking about the holidays, remember that there is a big one coming up in just a little over a week. A holiday that is a time for reflection and a great time to teach and learn. Don't skip it. Especially if you have children. This is the perfect opportunity for you to teach others about what it means to be kind, generous, and thankful.
Have a great day! Happy hump day!!
Monday, November 14, 2011
Winter's Yellow Polka Dot Bikini
In January 2009 SleepySven's family took us to Aspen, CO for an amazing ski trip! I love going to Aspen because not only do the mountains provide wonderful skiing, the village provides RIDICULOUS shopping! Take a pick of your high-end designers and they are probably represented on the main strip. My two favorite stores - the Ralph Lauren and J.Crew (they carry Collection) stores. Not that I really buy much....but the window shopping alone could fill the drawers in my dreams for years!!!
While on the trip I bought a dress that I absolutely LOVE. And....I got it in a size 6. Which means I used to be a size 6. Obviously, I bought the dress before I got fat.....I mean, pregnant. I gained (gasp!) 65 lbs when I was pregnant. And, as hard as it is to believe, I was NOT eating everything in site. Apparently my body wanted to make up for lost time - so it hoarded.....EVERYTHING!
I have worked pretty hard in recent months to finish shedding the remaining 15-20 lbs. I would say I still have about 10-15 lbs to go. (these are all guesses as I NEVER weigh myself - just go by fit of my clothes) So in looking for some motivation I pulled out the dress pictured. It still has the tags on it.
SleepySven has a work event at the beginning of February that I want to wear this dress to. And I will, damn it! So I'm putting this out there for the world to see.....or maybe just the three people that actually read this LOL!
By February 4th, I will be able to wear my brand new J.Crew Collection dress. Hold me to it.....
While on the trip I bought a dress that I absolutely LOVE. And....I got it in a size 6. Which means I used to be a size 6. Obviously, I bought the dress before I got fat.....I mean, pregnant. I gained (gasp!) 65 lbs when I was pregnant. And, as hard as it is to believe, I was NOT eating everything in site. Apparently my body wanted to make up for lost time - so it hoarded.....EVERYTHING!
I have worked pretty hard in recent months to finish shedding the remaining 15-20 lbs. I would say I still have about 10-15 lbs to go. (these are all guesses as I NEVER weigh myself - just go by fit of my clothes) So in looking for some motivation I pulled out the dress pictured. It still has the tags on it.
SleepySven has a work event at the beginning of February that I want to wear this dress to. And I will, damn it! So I'm putting this out there for the world to see.....or maybe just the three people that actually read this LOL!
By February 4th, I will be able to wear my brand new J.Crew Collection dress. Hold me to it.....
Sunday, November 13, 2011
New Week.....New Beginnings.....
For me, every Sunday night is like a lesser version of the night before Christmas for a 4 year old. There's always the aura that the upcoming week is going to be AMAZING! A far cry from opening gifts, my anticipated presents come in the forms of catching the Kiddo before he launches himself off my bed, getting the Pups back in the house with one whistle, and getting some part of the house cleaned and made pretty. And - if there is a BIG BOW moment - I actually find something that makes my house look less like a 25 year old college student and more like a chic, hip married lass (yep, I used the word "hip" - I'm lame). Oh yeah.....and maybe some ADULT TIME with SleepySven - even just a conversation with someone over the age of 2 is considered adult time in my book.
I sit down at the table, plan out my week of events - chores, field trips, arts and crafts projects, workouts, etc - and bask in the thought that the upcoming week will be different than last week. That everything will go precisely as planned. I will pretend to think that I have a Kiddo who likes to sit still for longer than 2 minutes, two Border Collies who won't run off and roll in poo when given "time alone", and a husband who will stay up long enough to parley with me once he gets home.
I am not delusional. Rarely does my week come close to this.....if one day goes 10% right it's something to get excited about. That's why I invest in wine. A lot of wine. (now that I have learned that skipping the wino factor is detrimental to my sanity) I have found that Trader Joes sells a great 1.5L Cab Sav for $8. Enough to keep this momma sane for at least 2-3 days. And cheap enough to make me not feel guilty for feeding my need.
I am a list maker. I have done it my entire life. Lists are everywhere - my purse, my phone, my planner, my mind. I used to follow my lists to the T - except when I was in college and always would come to the conclusion that a nap was a far better investment of time than studying. It has taken me 32 years to realize that if I don't complete everything on my list in the time frame I have allotted the world will not end. I have learned that throwing things does not make any of the list bullet points go away (though it does feel good - I'm Italian, and because I'm not a boy, punching walls is not acceptable). And I know that if I were to force the list on all around me the only person who would be even remotely happy would be me - and even that is questionable.
I write this post with only one goal in mind: Remind myself that though this upcoming week may not be perfect, in hindsight it will have been filled with some of the best memories of my life. Perspective Momma, perspective.
I hope that your week is full of more ups than downs, more highs than lows and, of course, some great vino!
I sit down at the table, plan out my week of events - chores, field trips, arts and crafts projects, workouts, etc - and bask in the thought that the upcoming week will be different than last week. That everything will go precisely as planned. I will pretend to think that I have a Kiddo who likes to sit still for longer than 2 minutes, two Border Collies who won't run off and roll in poo when given "time alone", and a husband who will stay up long enough to parley with me once he gets home.
I am not delusional. Rarely does my week come close to this.....if one day goes 10% right it's something to get excited about. That's why I invest in wine. A lot of wine. (now that I have learned that skipping the wino factor is detrimental to my sanity) I have found that Trader Joes sells a great 1.5L Cab Sav for $8. Enough to keep this momma sane for at least 2-3 days. And cheap enough to make me not feel guilty for feeding my need.
I am a list maker. I have done it my entire life. Lists are everywhere - my purse, my phone, my planner, my mind. I used to follow my lists to the T - except when I was in college and always would come to the conclusion that a nap was a far better investment of time than studying. It has taken me 32 years to realize that if I don't complete everything on my list in the time frame I have allotted the world will not end. I have learned that throwing things does not make any of the list bullet points go away (though it does feel good - I'm Italian, and because I'm not a boy, punching walls is not acceptable). And I know that if I were to force the list on all around me the only person who would be even remotely happy would be me - and even that is questionable.
I write this post with only one goal in mind: Remind myself that though this upcoming week may not be perfect, in hindsight it will have been filled with some of the best memories of my life. Perspective Momma, perspective.
I hope that your week is full of more ups than downs, more highs than lows and, of course, some great vino!
Friday, November 11, 2011
Drink.....Drank.....Drunk!
It has been a VERY LONG WEEK.
And it's not going to get any shorter with SleepySven having to work a football game tomorrow night.
Today I finally reached my limit. This is basically how it went ALL FREAKING DAY.....
If you're a parent, do you remember the days when you couldn't wait for your baby to say Momma or Dada? I curse those days. Along with the days I sat wishing WMD would walk.....um, yeah - he's been walking since 9 months, running since 10 months, SPRINTING since 12 months. My life is virtually a world with a blurry toddler running in and out of the living room and yelling something that sounds like NOTHING I have ever heard before. Today I asked WMD if he was speaking French. He said, "No". I asked him if he was speaking English. He nodded. Smart little turd.
I can't remember the last time I had a drink. Please don't interpret that statement to mean that I don't drink. Quite the contrary. I find there to be nothing wrong with a reward at the end of the day - to celebrate that you actually made it....and everyone is still alive! I've just been rather cheap lately and haven't splurged on any adult beverages in the recent past. I am learning that being frugal should not include purchases that maintain your sanity.....like a little (or 1.5L) bottle of wine.....or a pair of new boots! Enter: Grocery Store and Mall (Momma went out tonight and got her a new pair of boots that fit her fat calves AND tucked jeans - and please? Am I the only girl with calves like a man? You can't tell me that the majority of women have calves that are the size of my arm?.....I digress).....
So here I sit. Alone. Hubby at the job. Kiddo in bed - early, because I just couldn't do it anymore! Drinking a bottle (ok - a couple of bottles).....OK - MANY bottles of Pale Moon. Luck would have it that ABC Family is playing another showing of one of the Harry Potter movies ..... really? Does this channel ever play anything else? I am curled up in my favorite chair, with my favorite blanket and toasting the week:
You think you had the best of me
Even when covered in pee
I knew the week would come to end
And a bottle of booze would certain mend
Screw you week, screw you!
Congrats on making it to the weekend, gang! Take tomorrow and make it your own. Don't let the day titles define how you feel or what you do. And if you find yourself in a moment of CRAZY remember this:
God gives you nothing you can't handle. And if you can't handle it? Drink a handle.
And it's not going to get any shorter with SleepySven having to work a football game tomorrow night.
Today I finally reached my limit. This is basically how it went ALL FREAKING DAY.....
Family Guy, FOX
I can't remember the last time I had a drink. Please don't interpret that statement to mean that I don't drink. Quite the contrary. I find there to be nothing wrong with a reward at the end of the day - to celebrate that you actually made it....and everyone is still alive! I've just been rather cheap lately and haven't splurged on any adult beverages in the recent past. I am learning that being frugal should not include purchases that maintain your sanity.....like a little (or 1.5L) bottle of wine.....or a pair of new boots! Enter: Grocery Store and Mall (Momma went out tonight and got her a new pair of boots that fit her fat calves AND tucked jeans - and please? Am I the only girl with calves like a man? You can't tell me that the majority of women have calves that are the size of my arm?.....I digress).....
So here I sit. Alone. Hubby at the job. Kiddo in bed - early, because I just couldn't do it anymore! Drinking a bottle (ok - a couple of bottles).....OK - MANY bottles of Pale Moon. Luck would have it that ABC Family is playing another showing of one of the Harry Potter movies ..... really? Does this channel ever play anything else? I am curled up in my favorite chair, with my favorite blanket and toasting the week:
You think you had the best of me
Even when covered in pee
I knew the week would come to end
And a bottle of booze would certain mend
Screw you week, screw you!
Congrats on making it to the weekend, gang! Take tomorrow and make it your own. Don't let the day titles define how you feel or what you do. And if you find yourself in a moment of CRAZY remember this:
God gives you nothing you can't handle. And if you can't handle it? Drink a handle.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Movie Date Night with WMD
So with the recent onset of croup, WMD and I have been spending A TON of time together. It's a true statement to say that when that happens, he and I really start to get on each others' nerves. I'm not one of those moms who likes to sugar coat - anything. WMD brings be pure joy the majority of the time, but when he and I get stuck in a house together for a couple days we are usually both in agreement that we need a break from each other......and by break from each other, I mean I need to sit in the bathroom by myself and WMD is content with standing outside the door banging on it and crying.
Following the moments alone - or locked in my car, in the garage (car off and garage door open), I am struck with how much my life has changed since WMD became a part of it. It only takes one smile, one hug, or one silly dance move to "She'll Be Coming Around the Mountain" to make me remember that even during the crazy times, the stressed out times, the "I'm so glad God made you cute...." times, I really wouldn't want to be in any other place at any other time. Admittedly, I never thought I would want to have kids. But now that WMD is here and rearing, I'm loving life. However......
WMD and I are cut from the same cloth. My dad always said he couldn't wait for me to have a child just like me....He got his wish. Stubborn, daring to a fault, and able to find every button that needs (or doesn't need) pushed - literally and figuratively - WMD is everything I was as a child (and pre-teen, and teenager, and grown adult). These traits always seem to creep up on house-tied days. When I'm cleaning, WMD is uncleaning. When we're painting, WMD is eating the paint. When the Pups are trying to "find a happy place, find a happy place", WMD is jumping all over them (he has yet to figure out that teeth and growls means get off me). It gets tense up in here. Tempers on edge, for sure.
So after a day where there was a lot of raised voices and some crying - not only by the Kiddo - I decided that WMD and I needed to end on a good note. I rounded up the entire zoo into the car and headed into town for a long walk (2.5 miles) and a surprise visit to SleepySven at work. When we got home it was so dark that all I wanted to do was go to bed. But instead of calling it a night, I fed the Kiddo, gave him a bath and put him in his cute new PJs. I grabbed WMD's blanket and brought him back downstairs for a quite night of cuddling and movie watching. He picked one of his favorites (and mine, too), Monsters, Inc.
At the end of the movie WMD was getting very cuddly and tired. Nothing warms my heart more than my sleepy little guy and all the hugs and cuddles that come with it. I'm glad he and I got to have our own quite moment tonight. It was so sweet to have WMD with me at the end of the movie, when I always cry.
Above my bed there is a sign that says, "Always Kiss Me Goodnight." It's a motto I have come to live by, not only with my hubby, but with my Kiddo and Pups, too. Even on the worst day, nothing makes me feel better than a kiss from someone I love. I got my cuddles and kisses tonight. And I will admit freely - I feel AWESOME!
Let's hope the awesome hangover lasts through tomorrow! Another day......
Following the moments alone - or locked in my car, in the garage (car off and garage door open), I am struck with how much my life has changed since WMD became a part of it. It only takes one smile, one hug, or one silly dance move to "She'll Be Coming Around the Mountain" to make me remember that even during the crazy times, the stressed out times, the "I'm so glad God made you cute...." times, I really wouldn't want to be in any other place at any other time. Admittedly, I never thought I would want to have kids. But now that WMD is here and rearing, I'm loving life. However......
WMD and I are cut from the same cloth. My dad always said he couldn't wait for me to have a child just like me....He got his wish. Stubborn, daring to a fault, and able to find every button that needs (or doesn't need) pushed - literally and figuratively - WMD is everything I was as a child (and pre-teen, and teenager, and grown adult). These traits always seem to creep up on house-tied days. When I'm cleaning, WMD is uncleaning. When we're painting, WMD is eating the paint. When the Pups are trying to "find a happy place, find a happy place", WMD is jumping all over them (he has yet to figure out that teeth and growls means get off me). It gets tense up in here. Tempers on edge, for sure.
So after a day where there was a lot of raised voices and some crying - not only by the Kiddo - I decided that WMD and I needed to end on a good note. I rounded up the entire zoo into the car and headed into town for a long walk (2.5 miles) and a surprise visit to SleepySven at work. When we got home it was so dark that all I wanted to do was go to bed. But instead of calling it a night, I fed the Kiddo, gave him a bath and put him in his cute new PJs. I grabbed WMD's blanket and brought him back downstairs for a quite night of cuddling and movie watching. He picked one of his favorites (and mine, too), Monsters, Inc.
At the end of the movie WMD was getting very cuddly and tired. Nothing warms my heart more than my sleepy little guy and all the hugs and cuddles that come with it. I'm glad he and I got to have our own quite moment tonight. It was so sweet to have WMD with me at the end of the movie, when I always cry.
Above my bed there is a sign that says, "Always Kiss Me Goodnight." It's a motto I have come to live by, not only with my hubby, but with my Kiddo and Pups, too. Even on the worst day, nothing makes me feel better than a kiss from someone I love. I got my cuddles and kisses tonight. And I will admit freely - I feel AWESOME!
Let's hope the awesome hangover lasts through tomorrow! Another day......
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Happy Birthday, Bernadette Peters!
Dear Bernadette Peters,
You are an amazing part of my life! Since we were little, you have provided me with so much happiness, so much love and a lot of frustration - but mostly LOVE & HAPPINESS! I couldn't imagine having anyone else in my life that could fill your role as well as you do.
BP, you were my first best friend. My first arch enemy. And my first true ally. You have been someone I could always count on to help me keep it real - even if it meant making me cry while coming to grips with my conflicts. I have been so blessed to have a person in my life who will tell me like it is - to value honesty and trust above anything else. Thank you for teaching me, listening to me and encouraging me.
It has truly been a pleasure to share this life journey with you and to watch you enjoy all of your adventures. Though many miles separate us on a daily basis, my heart will always be close - for you will forever hold a special place in it. I will always love you, respect you and appreciate you.
Bernadette Peters, I wish you the happiest of birthdays! May your travels be safe and your celebration, momentous!
Love you always and forever,
Big Bertha
PS - As always, I have sent your card late. So you will have a proper tribute when you return home.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Sick Kiddo - Croup
Do you know what Croup is? Croup, which is marked by a harsh, repetitive cough similar to the noise of a seal barking, can be scary for children and their parents. Croup usually isn't serious. Most cases of croup can be treated at home. Sometimes, your child will need prescription medication. (MayoClinic.com)
Info on croup - Mayo Clinic
I had never heard of it until a couple of months ago when WMD was still at daycare. I figured that it would be something that WMD would most likely not get since he was no longer going to be around kids as much. WRONG, WRONG, WRONG!
Here's how it all started. Sunday night I noticed he had a cough - a normal cough, like what you get when you have a cold. Monday morning WMD woke up with a cough and a very raspy voice. Monday afternoon he woke up from his nap upset, with fever and was barking like a dog. Worried, I tried to call the doctor's office. But their automated telephone answering service hung up on me FOUR TIMES when I tried to push "2 - to make an appointment". So I just drove in. (You are the only champion for your child, if you think it might be serious, don't wait for someone else to say so!)
After a little poking and prodding and one diaper-only running lap around the office, we were on our way to pick up a prescription for a steroid and a new cool mist humidifier. The nurse practitioner, who was so sweet by the way, said there's not much to do for croup except let the virus run its course. The steroids are to relieve swelling around the vocal cords and only needs to be used if symptoms get bad. I gave WMD a dose last night before bed and haven't touched the stuff since. Cool, moist air helps keep the airways open - so a cool mist humidifier is a good investment. We actually had one up until a couple of weeks ago when I dropped and broke it :-(
Just an aside about the cool mist humidifier - they are better for you and your kiddo than a warm one. My grandfather was a general practitioner and always recommended using them in the winter time to his patients. Something about the cool air helps to relax passageways. So that's what we have been using. We keep one running in WMD's room every night during the winter months.
WMD is doing just fine today. He still has a very raspy voice and a cough. But nothing that bothers him. He's a pretty resilient kiddo, so he's never a bear to be around when he is sick. Because I don't want to spread this to anyone else, we are going to be spending some good QT around the house this week.
Workouts at the gym will have to be replaced with walks around downtown (something the Pups will not mind at all). And I have a feeling that WMD and I may be tackling some of those projects on Pinterest.
Another PS - I'm never going back to Walmart again to fill a prescription (it's the only place to fill a prescription on my route home from the doctor). This was the second time I had to wait an extra 20 minutes (tagged onto the 45 minutes I had already waited) because they entered my information incorrectly. I will say, however, they have some AMAZING deals on arts and crafts stuff (fake flowers, ribbons, yarn, fabric, paper, vases, etc). I'm not one to shop at Walmart on the regular because I like to support our local retailers, but I will file that info in the back of my mind for future projects.
Hope your day is going the way you designed. And if it's not? Well? What are you going to do about it?
I had never heard of it until a couple of months ago when WMD was still at daycare. I figured that it would be something that WMD would most likely not get since he was no longer going to be around kids as much. WRONG, WRONG, WRONG!
Here's how it all started. Sunday night I noticed he had a cough - a normal cough, like what you get when you have a cold. Monday morning WMD woke up with a cough and a very raspy voice. Monday afternoon he woke up from his nap upset, with fever and was barking like a dog. Worried, I tried to call the doctor's office. But their automated telephone answering service hung up on me FOUR TIMES when I tried to push "2 - to make an appointment". So I just drove in. (You are the only champion for your child, if you think it might be serious, don't wait for someone else to say so!)
After a little poking and prodding and one diaper-only running lap around the office, we were on our way to pick up a prescription for a steroid and a new cool mist humidifier. The nurse practitioner, who was so sweet by the way, said there's not much to do for croup except let the virus run its course. The steroids are to relieve swelling around the vocal cords and only needs to be used if symptoms get bad. I gave WMD a dose last night before bed and haven't touched the stuff since. Cool, moist air helps keep the airways open - so a cool mist humidifier is a good investment. We actually had one up until a couple of weeks ago when I dropped and broke it :-(
Just an aside about the cool mist humidifier - they are better for you and your kiddo than a warm one. My grandfather was a general practitioner and always recommended using them in the winter time to his patients. Something about the cool air helps to relax passageways. So that's what we have been using. We keep one running in WMD's room every night during the winter months.
WMD is doing just fine today. He still has a very raspy voice and a cough. But nothing that bothers him. He's a pretty resilient kiddo, so he's never a bear to be around when he is sick. Because I don't want to spread this to anyone else, we are going to be spending some good QT around the house this week.
Workouts at the gym will have to be replaced with walks around downtown (something the Pups will not mind at all). And I have a feeling that WMD and I may be tackling some of those projects on Pinterest.
Another PS - I'm never going back to Walmart again to fill a prescription (it's the only place to fill a prescription on my route home from the doctor). This was the second time I had to wait an extra 20 minutes (tagged onto the 45 minutes I had already waited) because they entered my information incorrectly. I will say, however, they have some AMAZING deals on arts and crafts stuff (fake flowers, ribbons, yarn, fabric, paper, vases, etc). I'm not one to shop at Walmart on the regular because I like to support our local retailers, but I will file that info in the back of my mind for future projects.
Hope your day is going the way you designed. And if it's not? Well? What are you going to do about it?
Monday, November 7, 2011
Rolling in Poo
I thought I'd start my first legitimate post with an all too familiar scenario in our household.
When the BB's feel they aren't getting enough attention, they ask to go outside. And by ask, I mean follow me around the house, whine at every possible moment, breathe heavily or huff and puff. Once outside, instead of staying close to the manner, they run into the nearby woods and do not return back when called or whistled. Usually one dog, but when I'm lucky - both of them, not only having ate every piece of deer scat (aka - "puppy cavier") in the surrounding 200 square yards, but also rolling in it. Becoming completely covered. I have to find a way to get the dog/dogs cleaned outside, while my son watches - not allowing him to get in the water or run down the driveway. To say Border Collies aren't smart would be an understatement. They know how to get me back.
Research has told me that herding dogs do this to disguise their scent from predators, such as wolves. The BB's have no idea what herding is, so their instincts to cover themselves in some of the most foul smelling perfume known to man boggles my mind. I call this the Bath and Body Works effect - humans wear scents (ie: pear, apple, plum) that they are also guilty of eating. Who cares that no other living being in the surrounding area enjoys deer scat - to the BB's, it's a delicacy. And a sure-fire way to get Momma CRAZY MAD!
True story -
When the oldest dog was just a puppy, I had been away for a long weekend. Upon my return my husband let the pup out to greet me. The first B, made his way over to say hello and then quickly took off around the neighborhood. With my husband in tow, the first B managed to run through every yard on the block only stopping momentarily to scoop up and devour any scat he could find. This went on for about 10 minutes - so you can imagine how much he ate!
After we finally caught him, the first B and my husband cuddled up on the couch as I relieved myself after a very long trip and the game of catch the crazy Border Collie. As I sat on the toilet I heard my husband say, "Oh SHIT!" This was followed by a sound of dry-heaving. I walked out of the bathroom to find my husband, couch, rug, and coffee table covered in puke. Please recall the first part of the story. What did the first B just get finished eating? I walked in to find my husband, couch, rug and coffee table covered in SHITTY PUKE.
Now, I've never smelled a decomposing body, but I would imagine that the smells are similar. My husband was gagging, the first B was cowering and, to be honest, I was laughing my rear off. It was pretty funny - says the girl who was completely clean!
Happy Monday!
When the BB's feel they aren't getting enough attention, they ask to go outside. And by ask, I mean follow me around the house, whine at every possible moment, breathe heavily or huff and puff. Once outside, instead of staying close to the manner, they run into the nearby woods and do not return back when called or whistled. Usually one dog, but when I'm lucky - both of them, not only having ate every piece of deer scat (aka - "puppy cavier") in the surrounding 200 square yards, but also rolling in it. Becoming completely covered. I have to find a way to get the dog/dogs cleaned outside, while my son watches - not allowing him to get in the water or run down the driveway. To say Border Collies aren't smart would be an understatement. They know how to get me back.
Research has told me that herding dogs do this to disguise their scent from predators, such as wolves. The BB's have no idea what herding is, so their instincts to cover themselves in some of the most foul smelling perfume known to man boggles my mind. I call this the Bath and Body Works effect - humans wear scents (ie: pear, apple, plum) that they are also guilty of eating. Who cares that no other living being in the surrounding area enjoys deer scat - to the BB's, it's a delicacy. And a sure-fire way to get Momma CRAZY MAD!
True story -
When the oldest dog was just a puppy, I had been away for a long weekend. Upon my return my husband let the pup out to greet me. The first B, made his way over to say hello and then quickly took off around the neighborhood. With my husband in tow, the first B managed to run through every yard on the block only stopping momentarily to scoop up and devour any scat he could find. This went on for about 10 minutes - so you can imagine how much he ate!
After we finally caught him, the first B and my husband cuddled up on the couch as I relieved myself after a very long trip and the game of catch the crazy Border Collie. As I sat on the toilet I heard my husband say, "Oh SHIT!" This was followed by a sound of dry-heaving. I walked out of the bathroom to find my husband, couch, rug, and coffee table covered in puke. Please recall the first part of the story. What did the first B just get finished eating? I walked in to find my husband, couch, rug and coffee table covered in SHITTY PUKE.
Now, I've never smelled a decomposing body, but I would imagine that the smells are similar. My husband was gagging, the first B was cowering and, to be honest, I was laughing my rear off. It was pretty funny - says the girl who was completely clean!
Happy Monday!
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