Update on the house: Things are going remarkably well. Now we are back in waiting mode, this time for appraisals and the inspection on the new house. We have 54 days until the big move! L has, however, already told me that when he marries his current girlfriend, he has dibs on our new house and we'll need to find somewhere else to live. So I guess even if this does all work out, it's fairly temporary. The good news is that he promised to bring his baby to my new house so I can baby-sit. I can deal with that.
Update on my asthma: The combination of Prednisone and my chiropractic treatment seem to be working beautifully. Unfortunately, between the steroids and the massive amount of albuterol I've been inhaling, I had a very itchy reaction, so my doctor said that as soon as I feel better, I can start weaning myself off of the western medication, rather than staying on for the full seven days. Thank goodness. Next chiropractic visit is tomorrow and I'm counting the hours.
Update on church goings-on: Today, I worked with the little boy with special needs who I shadow every week. For the first time, he worshiped with the other children and actually said "Jesus." Talk about huge goosebumps. When he repeated it for his mom, she teared up and embraced me. Heart-filling, indeed.
Update on my blog: I have a very fun giveaway coming up soon from a delightful Etsy seller. I've enjoyed chatting with her immensely and I know you'll love her as much as I do. Stay tuned!
What are the updates in your life? Hook me up!
Namaste'!
Showing posts with label random. Show all posts
Showing posts with label random. Show all posts
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Monday, March 19, 2012
Oh, hi.
*peeks head out, looks around, blinking*
Hello?
Oh! You are all still here! I know, I've been completely MIA for a while. But I'm back. A lot has happened since I've been away.
We've gone on a fabulous trip, which included a cowboy-led jeep tour into the desert, a gospel choir, and more alcoholic beverages than I've consumed in the last month, among other things.
We made it for four days away from L and G, during which my boys didn't come in contact with allergens, injure their sweet faces, or honestly, miss us as much as I thought.
We survived a hellish journey back from said trip, which had one silver lining, mainly a decrease in my fear of flying, thanks to aversion therapy.
We officially put our house in the market, and in doing so, removed enough crap items from our house to fill a trailer. Easily. The photographer and videographer (hello, virtual home tour!) came today and now we begin the battle of keeping a house clean with two mess-makers afoot. Okay, three. I'm the messiest of them all.
And I still have other events to document, most notably, L getting a super cute accessory that makes him resemble two of his favorite characters.
So I'm back. And I'll be playing catch-up for the next week (Spring Break say what?) so bear with me as I dig through my memories and random thoughts.
Namaste'.
Hello?
Oh! You are all still here! I know, I've been completely MIA for a while. But I'm back. A lot has happened since I've been away.
We've gone on a fabulous trip, which included a cowboy-led jeep tour into the desert, a gospel choir, and more alcoholic beverages than I've consumed in the last month, among other things.
We made it for four days away from L and G, during which my boys didn't come in contact with allergens, injure their sweet faces, or honestly, miss us as much as I thought.
We survived a hellish journey back from said trip, which had one silver lining, mainly a decrease in my fear of flying, thanks to aversion therapy.
We officially put our house in the market, and in doing so, removed enough
And I still have other events to document, most notably, L getting a super cute accessory that makes him resemble two of his favorite characters.
So I'm back. And I'll be playing catch-up for the next week (Spring Break say what?) so bear with me as I dig through my memories and random thoughts.
Namaste'.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Tuesday Tidbits
I have a lot going on and my mind is full of randomosity as usual. Hence the Tuesday Tidbit post.
I have been a big emotional crabby mess for longer than I'd like to admit. Between some family stuff and job issues and stressing over readying our house for the big bad stinky market, I've been a stressball. But our realtor came over last night to check out our house and officially get this ball rolling. He was so positive that I was able to put my normal rose-colored glasses back on my face. I'm fully aware that he was giving us a sales pitch, but from the selling points of our house to his recommended listing price, he made my whole day. And my students are probably working on thank you notes for him because of it.
*****
Today I went to L's school to drop something off and my heart sank when I realized that there was an impromptu birthday celebration about to start. Teachers were passing out pink cupcakes and L was sitting at a table with his friend, eating his boring old applesauce. I asked about the allergy-safe cupcakes I had stashed in the freezer and his teacher told me they had all been eaten. I quickly told L that he could have a special treat when we got home, and he shrugged and smiled. His teachers assured me that he's great about his allergies. I am so grateful that he is, because if he didn't have the wisdom and self-control that he does, there'd be many more momma tears.
*****
We leave for our trip in less than a week. Food is being packed. Dresses are being bought. Magazines are being splurged on. Forecasts are being checked. I am petrified to leave a food-allergic kid for four days but all I can do is pray. If you want to throw one our way, I'd be grateful. In the meantime, I'll be squealing over the "80 and sunny" promises that my weather app is gifting me.
*****
Baby G is now 18 months and his personality is...shining. He gets at least one uh-oh time an evening in his room thanks to some epic tantrum skills. He says new words constantly (today's was "stuck" in reference to a sticker on his finger) although admittedly, I'm probably the only one who can understand 90% of it. (G, you're killing your speech therapist momma). He's still obsessed with Mickey (either called "Hot Dog" or "Minneh") . But the funniest thing he does now? Whenever he is asked anything, he says, "Ummmmmm..." One of these days I'll capture it on video. And I will watch it when he's 20 and cry.
*****
Yesterday, I was leaning against the couch, and L patted my belly, noting how big it is. Apparently, I looked crestfallen, because he said, "Oh, Mommy, I didn't mean that. It's not big. It's just the way you are sitting." Just the way you are sitting?!? Is he 4 or 24?
*****
We found gluten-free, antibiotic-free, dairy-free, preservative-free chicken nuggets last week. And they rocked our socks off. The end.
*****
What's new with you? Namaste'.
I have been a big emotional crabby mess for longer than I'd like to admit. Between some family stuff and job issues and stressing over readying our house for the big bad stinky market, I've been a stressball. But our realtor came over last night to check out our house and officially get this ball rolling. He was so positive that I was able to put my normal rose-colored glasses back on my face. I'm fully aware that he was giving us a sales pitch, but from the selling points of our house to his recommended listing price, he made my whole day. And my students are probably working on thank you notes for him because of it.
*****
Today I went to L's school to drop something off and my heart sank when I realized that there was an impromptu birthday celebration about to start. Teachers were passing out pink cupcakes and L was sitting at a table with his friend, eating his boring old applesauce. I asked about the allergy-safe cupcakes I had stashed in the freezer and his teacher told me they had all been eaten. I quickly told L that he could have a special treat when we got home, and he shrugged and smiled. His teachers assured me that he's great about his allergies. I am so grateful that he is, because if he didn't have the wisdom and self-control that he does, there'd be many more momma tears.
*****
We leave for our trip in less than a week. Food is being packed. Dresses are being bought. Magazines are being splurged on. Forecasts are being checked. I am petrified to leave a food-allergic kid for four days but all I can do is pray. If you want to throw one our way, I'd be grateful. In the meantime, I'll be squealing over the "80 and sunny" promises that my weather app is gifting me.
*****
Baby G is now 18 months and his personality is...shining. He gets at least one uh-oh time an evening in his room thanks to some epic tantrum skills. He says new words constantly (today's was "stuck" in reference to a sticker on his finger) although admittedly, I'm probably the only one who can understand 90% of it. (G, you're killing your speech therapist momma). He's still obsessed with Mickey (either called "Hot Dog" or "Minneh") . But the funniest thing he does now? Whenever he is asked anything, he says, "Ummmmmm..." One of these days I'll capture it on video. And I will watch it when he's 20 and cry.
*****
Yesterday, I was leaning against the couch, and L patted my belly, noting how big it is. Apparently, I looked crestfallen, because he said, "Oh, Mommy, I didn't mean that. It's not big. It's just the way you are sitting." Just the way you are sitting?!? Is he 4 or 24?
*****
We found gluten-free, antibiotic-free, dairy-free, preservative-free chicken nuggets last week. And they rocked our socks off. The end.
*****
What's new with you? Namaste'.
Monday, March 5, 2012
Monday Real
I'm linking up with Jess and Britt today. I'm all about the "real" when I'm feeling like this. I'm overwhelmed and exhausted so please excuse any grammatical or spelling errors.
First up-My 18 month old still doesn't sleep through the night. Between my asthma attack and his screaming sesh last night, I got less than three hours of sleep. And so this morning, when my husband said something about needing more help in the morning? I might have lost it on him. Fine. I did. I totally did. Because if I could just fall back to sleep like him, regardless of my children's wails, I'd probably be uber helpful in the morning. Grrr.
You know what is getting me through today, especially since I didn't have time to get a cup of coffee this morning? Checking the weather in our vacation destination to where we are traveling very, very soon. The current forecast for our arrival day? 80 and sunny. A related confession is that the more I think about the sun on my shoulders, the less nervous I am about going. And? The fact that I'll be able to sleep, uninterrupted. And wake up to 80 freaking degrees. (It's fuh-reezing here.) Peace out, babies. I know I've never left you before, but Mama needs her sun and sleep.
And as long as I'm talking about 12-step programs I need to join, we might as well throw in hippie-dippie natural supplements. The amount of money I've spent this week at our nutrition store is not normal. I think the workers high-five each other as they see my car pull up. My newest find is a blend of spices (I'm talking oregano, cumin, ginger, among others) that is supposed to help with asthma. Cut me some slack, though...I've had an asthma attack every night for over a month and my chest actually hurts. I'm desperate. And clearly, an easy sell.
And more reality? Our realtor is coming over tonight and even after months of preparing and purging and donating and selling, we still donated 8 huge bags of last-minute stuff. And my husband filled his 4Runner to the brim and hauled junk away. That doesn't include the things that went to the consignment shop. We made this walk-through appointment last week and we still will have to tell him tonight that this table and that cabinet and this pile-o-shit is on its way out.
And as long as I'm talking about 12-step programs I need to join, we might as well throw in hippie-dippie natural supplements. The amount of money I've spent this week at our nutrition store is not normal. I think the workers high-five each other as they see my car pull up. My newest find is a blend of spices (I'm talking oregano, cumin, ginger, among others) that is supposed to help with asthma. Cut me some slack, though...I've had an asthma attack every night for over a month and my chest actually hurts. I'm desperate. And clearly, an easy sell.
And more reality? Our realtor is coming over tonight and even after months of preparing and purging and donating and selling, we still donated 8 huge bags of last-minute stuff. And my husband filled his 4Runner to the brim and hauled junk away. That doesn't include the things that went to the consignment shop. We made this walk-through appointment last week and we still will have to tell him tonight that this table and that cabinet and this pile-o-shit is on its way out.
This house-on-the-market thing might kill me dead. Hopefully it will be after my trip, though.
Namaste'.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Like nails on a chalkboard
I tend to be a bit sensory defensive (as well as sensory seeking). And lately, I've noticed that my sensory issues have been extra crazy lately. I have theories on why; I've wondered if it's due to hormone changes from ending breastfeeding or slowly introducing gluten/dairy back into my diet to prepare for our trip.
Regardless, I've felt like my sensory system is completely whacked out as of late. I've always hated touching cotton balls and last night, after some dental work, I was whining to B about the fact that I had to bite!cotton!ew!! and it turned into a discussion about my sensory issues.
I told him that I recently have developed a hate of construction paper. I don't like even touching it but folding it or cutting it...ugh...just the thought of it gives me the heebie jeebies. B just couldn't understand it. He claims he has no sensory issues. When I asked him if there was really nothing that is like nails on a chalkboard to him, he replied, "Oh, yeah, I don't like nails on a chalkboard."
Sigh. Men. So I turned to my trusty Twitter and asked for empathy. And goodness, did I get it. Girls told me of their hate for chalk, brown paper towels, glass, cotton balls. In addition to the construction paper, I have all those too. Oh, and anything gritty... water chestnuts, watermelon, pears...blech. I'm also don't like many ball-point pens. *shudder*
The only things I didn't relate to was the sound of someone brushing their teeth, styrofoam, and elevator buttons.
However, this discussion was fascinating to me, although I got so shivery that I couldn't even keep track of who I replied to on Twitter. Just thinking about those things not only made my skin crawl, but clearly affected my mental capacity. Like I said, sensory issues. Big ones.
So tell me: what makes your skin crawl? I really want to know.
Namaste.
Regardless, I've felt like my sensory system is completely whacked out as of late. I've always hated touching cotton balls and last night, after some dental work, I was whining to B about the fact that I had to bite!cotton!ew!! and it turned into a discussion about my sensory issues.
I told him that I recently have developed a hate of construction paper. I don't like even touching it but folding it or cutting it...ugh...just the thought of it gives me the heebie jeebies. B just couldn't understand it. He claims he has no sensory issues. When I asked him if there was really nothing that is like nails on a chalkboard to him, he replied, "Oh, yeah, I don't like nails on a chalkboard."
Sigh. Men. So I turned to my trusty Twitter and asked for empathy. And goodness, did I get it. Girls told me of their hate for chalk, brown paper towels, glass, cotton balls. In addition to the construction paper, I have all those too. Oh, and anything gritty... water chestnuts, watermelon, pears...blech. I'm also don't like many ball-point pens. *shudder*
The only things I didn't relate to was the sound of someone brushing their teeth, styrofoam, and elevator buttons.
However, this discussion was fascinating to me, although I got so shivery that I couldn't even keep track of who I replied to on Twitter. Just thinking about those things not only made my skin crawl, but clearly affected my mental capacity. Like I said, sensory issues. Big ones.
So tell me: what makes your skin crawl? I really want to know.
Namaste.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Three for Thursday: Things you don't know about me
I'm open. To a fault, some say. But as I was driving to school this morning, I realized there are a few things that you don't know about me. Let's fix that, shall we?
*****
Until last night, I had never tried brussel sprouts. One of my Twitter friends was talking about how good they are a week or so ago (hi, Erin!) and I decided I needed to try them. At our weekly Trader Joe's trip, I found a stalk of them, and the friendly TJ's employee offered me some advice on how to make them (olive oil and TJ's special seasoning). New thing to know about me: I heart brussel sprouts.
*****
I have a secret desire to learn to play the drums. Always have, actually. But now I have a new reason for my desire...I want to play at my church. The problem with that is twofold, however. One-I'm a big mushy mess when it comes to music at my church and I always get all emotional during the worship. And two-I have zero rhythm. Seriously, I have to watch the worship team to know when to clap. Let's not even talk about my dancing skills. But someday, I'll learn to play the drums. I will.
*****
I hate country music. There, I said it. I know (only because of Twitter) that the CMA's were on last night so this is probably a dangerous time to make that admission. Hate me if you must. You know what I do love? Cheesy 90's music. Thanks to another Twitter friend, I have found the New Kids on the Block station on Pandora. I've been thumbs-up-ing like whoa ever since. I'm here to tell you that "Come on Eileen" is a better pick-me-up than a venti mocha. If you saw me dancing (rhythm-less, of course) in my car this morning, you'd agree. Trust me.
*****
Happy Thursday, and namaste.
*****
Until last night, I had never tried brussel sprouts. One of my Twitter friends was talking about how good they are a week or so ago (hi, Erin!) and I decided I needed to try them. At our weekly Trader Joe's trip, I found a stalk of them, and the friendly TJ's employee offered me some advice on how to make them (olive oil and TJ's special seasoning). New thing to know about me: I heart brussel sprouts.
*****
I have a secret desire to learn to play the drums. Always have, actually. But now I have a new reason for my desire...I want to play at my church. The problem with that is twofold, however. One-I'm a big mushy mess when it comes to music at my church and I always get all emotional during the worship. And two-I have zero rhythm. Seriously, I have to watch the worship team to know when to clap. Let's not even talk about my dancing skills. But someday, I'll learn to play the drums. I will.
*****
I hate country music. There, I said it. I know (only because of Twitter) that the CMA's were on last night so this is probably a dangerous time to make that admission. Hate me if you must. You know what I do love? Cheesy 90's music. Thanks to another Twitter friend, I have found the New Kids on the Block station on Pandora. I've been thumbs-up-ing like whoa ever since. I'm here to tell you that "Come on Eileen" is a better pick-me-up than a venti mocha. If you saw me dancing (rhythm-less, of course) in my car this morning, you'd agree. Trust me.
*****
Happy Thursday, and namaste.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
snippets
For as long as I can remember, I wanted to have two boys. The fact that they find bodily functions hilarious doesn't surprise me. The constant talk about body parts doesn't surprise me. What surprises me is how early the fighting began. At one and four, they already fight over toys. Screeching, hitting, whining entails on a daily basis.
But in the mornings, they act as though they haven't seen each other for eight weeks instead of eight hours. They hug. They kiss. They giggle and wrestle and love.
And every so often, I catch moments like this....
And every so often, I catch moments like this....
...and my heart just about explodes. Oh, my boys.
**********
Remember the Veteran's Day banner that I posted about in my last post? If you aren't on Twitter, then you didn't get a peek of my ten-foot long creative pride and joy for this week. It will hang over about 100 first graders' heads next week as they belt out some super cute tunes for our visiting Veterans.
Squeee! I love it. I do. I make a lot of things that end up looking ridonculous. And although it doesn't have the right number of stripes and paint smears "give it character," I'm proud of it. About 7 or 8 kids lent their hands to the flag and all of them have some type of special need. That makes me love it even more.
*******
This week I've been thinking about my blog-friends that I love.
Like this girl, whose generosity never ceases to amaze me. Because of her, I'm waiting on an Erin Condren planner that I've wanted since the moment I knew they existed. That little beauty is coming to me soon (dear God, hopefully soon...I don't know how much longer I can wait) and thanks to her, I didn't pay a cent. This isn't the first sweet thing she's done for me and one day I will hug her in person. Mark my words. I. Will.
And this girl, whose generosity literally brought tears to my eyes when she sent me one of the kindest gifts I've ever gotten, right when I needed it the most. She has such a kind heart and a good spirit and I'm lucky to have "met" her. If there were more people like her in the world, it would be a better place. For the record, I would also like to hug her one day. She's amazing.
Oh, and this girl, who I do get to hug all the time. She and I got to go out for sushi and wine last weekend. Clearly, judging from my one-glass-of-wine-induced tipsiness and raucous laughter, it had been far too long since I had a girls' night. Hanging out with her is never, ever boring and I'm excited to see her again this weekend. Love her.
Namaste.
Namaste.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Happier Happenings
I hate when I am whiny and needy and pitiful.
You know. Like I was yesterday. That was some ridiculousness permeating my space here. So if you spent those six minutes that you'll never get back reading my blah-blah-blah-woe-is-me post, I apologize.
I am happy to report that today was a better day.
I had a fabulous moment at work. A vision came to life, which is always a huge!thing! I must back up. Every year, I create a ten-foot long banner for our Veteran's Day assembly. Although I am quite liberal politically (no, not about everything...save the hate), I love me some soldiers. When we see anyone in uniform, L and I thank them. I used to think I was a veteran in another life because anything veteran-related just touches my heart. But then I started going to church and realized that reincarnation doesn't exactly jive with what our pastor is preaching, and my whole "I used to be a veteran" idea kinda got blown out of the water. But still. I love veterans. The end.
But I digress.
The banner. So this year, I had this idea not to just paint cutesy letters and buy star stickers on my banner. I was given the theme "We Will Remember You." I wanted to create a flag and make the stars and stripes out of...
...wait for it...
Kids HANDPRINTS. I know, right? Cute?
But about halfway through this project, I had gotten paint on both rugs in my room and I had realized that when you put painty kindergarten hands on paper, they have an innate need to smear said paint on paper, and one of my cuties with Down Syndrome looked at her own painted hand and said, "Ohhh, Daddy's gonna be soooo pissed."
It was pretty much a cluster-you-know-what.
But by that point, I was in it. Literally up to my elbows. So I kept on going.
And? My banner turned out beautifully. I made Army-font-esque letters and it all came together. Once it's hung, I'll take a picture and post it.
And THEN, I picked L up from school, and he hadn't cried all day, not even when his best friend picked another kid to be book helper. His preschool teacher told me that she chose L and a few other boys to help put the balls back in the ball pit (L told me last week that somebody peed in the ball pit which made it hard to keep a straight face when his teacher told this story). Apparently, all the other kids ran around like banshees but L took the un-peed-up-ball-refilling job very seriously and she was uber proud of his intense tidying. So yay.
And THEN, we ran around to Michael's and the grocery store and L didn't whine or cry one time. So he ended up with a really stupid "band monkey" (his term) which is one of those plastic monkeys with a red hat that bangs its cymbals when you wind it up. But it's a quiet toy and so I win.
And THEN! The boys giggled in the bathtub forever and tickled each other and said "baduhbaduhbaduh" over and over until we were all laughing so hard that we couldn't breathe.
And G ate meat!
And now, B and L are lying in bed listening to a Harry Potter audiobook and I am letting my almond milk ice cream soften enough to add in some pumpkin and all is back to being right in my world.
Namaste.
You know. Like I was yesterday. That was some ridiculousness permeating my space here. So if you spent those six minutes that you'll never get back reading my blah-blah-blah-woe-is-me post, I apologize.
I am happy to report that today was a better day.
I had a fabulous moment at work. A vision came to life, which is always a huge!thing! I must back up. Every year, I create a ten-foot long banner for our Veteran's Day assembly. Although I am quite liberal politically (no, not about everything...save the hate), I love me some soldiers. When we see anyone in uniform, L and I thank them. I used to think I was a veteran in another life because anything veteran-related just touches my heart. But then I started going to church and realized that reincarnation doesn't exactly jive with what our pastor is preaching, and my whole "I used to be a veteran" idea kinda got blown out of the water. But still. I love veterans. The end.
But I digress.
The banner. So this year, I had this idea not to just paint cutesy letters and buy star stickers on my banner. I was given the theme "We Will Remember You." I wanted to create a flag and make the stars and stripes out of...
...wait for it...
Kids HANDPRINTS. I know, right? Cute?
But about halfway through this project, I had gotten paint on both rugs in my room and I had realized that when you put painty kindergarten hands on paper, they have an innate need to smear said paint on paper, and one of my cuties with Down Syndrome looked at her own painted hand and said, "Ohhh, Daddy's gonna be soooo pissed."
It was pretty much a cluster-you-know-what.
But by that point, I was in it. Literally up to my elbows. So I kept on going.
And? My banner turned out beautifully. I made Army-font-esque letters and it all came together. Once it's hung, I'll take a picture and post it.
And THEN, I picked L up from school, and he hadn't cried all day, not even when his best friend picked another kid to be book helper. His preschool teacher told me that she chose L and a few other boys to help put the balls back in the ball pit (L told me last week that somebody peed in the ball pit which made it hard to keep a straight face when his teacher told this story). Apparently, all the other kids ran around like banshees but L took the un-peed-up-ball-refilling job very seriously and she was uber proud of his intense tidying. So yay.
And THEN, we ran around to Michael's and the grocery store and L didn't whine or cry one time. So he ended up with a really stupid "band monkey" (his term) which is one of those plastic monkeys with a red hat that bangs its cymbals when you wind it up. But it's a quiet toy and so I win.
And THEN! The boys giggled in the bathtub forever and tickled each other and said "baduhbaduhbaduh" over and over until we were all laughing so hard that we couldn't breathe.
And G ate meat!
And now, B and L are lying in bed listening to a Harry Potter audiobook and I am letting my almond milk ice cream soften enough to add in some pumpkin and all is back to being right in my world.
Namaste.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Right now
* Right now, I am really disappointed because we are missing a class at church, which will most likely ultimately lead to us discontinuing the course. It's only 6 weeks, and since we won't be able to attend on Halloween, only taking 2/3 of the class seems pointless. Especially when they will re-offer the class another time. But...gah...I want to take it now!
* Right now, we are missing the class because both B and L have a lower GI virus. I had it last week. I'll spare you the details (you are welcome), but it's no fun. My mom is our sitter, but is on chemo in an attempt to cure her hepatitis. Even though L is getting over his virus, she can't be around sickies since chemo kills your immune system. So I understand. And I feel even worse, because I am sad when I should be feeling sympathetic. So yeah, I'm stuck in a vicious cycle of self-suckage.
* Right now, I wish I could download the couch to 5K app and go for a run but considering I think I have my own virus settling into my lungs, I don't think a run would be good for this lovely and extremely productive cough.
* Right now, my husband is seriously dumpster-diving. He threw away our old thermostat when he replaced ours and now, apparently coincidentally, our heat isn't working correctly. His friend is trying to fix it as I type but he keeps muttering words like "bizarre," and "confused," so that doesn't exactly look great.
* Right now, L is making G giggle while G finishes his dinner. Right now, the weather is beautiful so we don't even need to worry about the heat for a few days. Right now, I'm looking forward to having a (gluten-free) beer, eating my quinoa pasta, and watching the World Series tonight. Right now, I am reminding myself, as always, that things could be so much worse and that God has a hand in EVERYTHING.
What's up with you right now?
* Right now, we are missing the class because both B and L have a lower GI virus. I had it last week. I'll spare you the details (you are welcome), but it's no fun. My mom is our sitter, but is on chemo in an attempt to cure her hepatitis. Even though L is getting over his virus, she can't be around sickies since chemo kills your immune system. So I understand. And I feel even worse, because I am sad when I should be feeling sympathetic. So yeah, I'm stuck in a vicious cycle of self-suckage.
* Right now, I wish I could download the couch to 5K app and go for a run but considering I think I have my own virus settling into my lungs, I don't think a run would be good for this lovely and extremely productive cough.
* Right now, my husband is seriously dumpster-diving. He threw away our old thermostat when he replaced ours and now, apparently coincidentally, our heat isn't working correctly. His friend is trying to fix it as I type but he keeps muttering words like "bizarre," and "confused," so that doesn't exactly look great.
* Right now, L is making G giggle while G finishes his dinner. Right now, the weather is beautiful so we don't even need to worry about the heat for a few days. Right now, I'm looking forward to having a (gluten-free) beer, eating my quinoa pasta, and watching the World Series tonight. Right now, I am reminding myself, as always, that things could be so much worse and that God has a hand in EVERYTHING.
What's up with you right now?
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Randomosity
My life is random these days, so I figure my blog posts should reflect that.
I learned a few random things this week that I wanted to share with you all.
This is going to be wayyyy TMI, but after twenty-three glorious months of being period-free, I can no longer claim that. (Sorry, my one male reader, for starting out a blog post with this topic.) I've been dreading my first month of this because I've heard how terrible the first one is. However, my cramps were more minimal than they've ever been in my entire life. Of course, I had to google this to figure out why, and I am fairly certain that the lack of dairy in my diet has a big role in it. Apparently, if you avoid dairy for a few days before your period, your cramps should decrease. Considering I've been dairy-free since June, I happily reaped the benefits. Try it this month. Thank me later.
*****
L has been struggling with what I think are hives. I always thought of hives and welts as being the same thing, but apparently, hives can look like bug bites. And? They come and go and can last for weeks after being exposed to an allergen. Like, oh, your daddy (along with the entire neighborhood) cutting the grass with the windows open when you are allergic to ... grass. Allergy medicine and anti-itch cream help, but they are still a bitch. For you and your worried momma. End of story.
*****
Allowing your child to look at a toy catalog in the car as you drive him home from school can be dangerous. Why? When he tells you he wants "this hooker with a bottle," it can cause you to freak out, wondering what on God's green earth he's looking at. Upon further investigation, you might die of laughter when you realize it's a bottle-shaped punching bag with a hook to attach it to a door frame. Of course. A hooker. With a bottle.
*****
Any random tidbits of advice you want to share with me this week?
Namaste.
I learned a few random things this week that I wanted to share with you all.
This is going to be wayyyy TMI, but after twenty-three glorious months of being period-free, I can no longer claim that. (Sorry, my one male reader, for starting out a blog post with this topic.) I've been dreading my first month of this because I've heard how terrible the first one is. However, my cramps were more minimal than they've ever been in my entire life. Of course, I had to google this to figure out why, and I am fairly certain that the lack of dairy in my diet has a big role in it. Apparently, if you avoid dairy for a few days before your period, your cramps should decrease. Considering I've been dairy-free since June, I happily reaped the benefits. Try it this month. Thank me later.
*****
L has been struggling with what I think are hives. I always thought of hives and welts as being the same thing, but apparently, hives can look like bug bites. And? They come and go and can last for weeks after being exposed to an allergen. Like, oh, your daddy (along with the entire neighborhood) cutting the grass with the windows open when you are allergic to ... grass. Allergy medicine and anti-itch cream help, but they are still a bitch. For you and your worried momma. End of story.
*****
Allowing your child to look at a toy catalog in the car as you drive him home from school can be dangerous. Why? When he tells you he wants "this hooker with a bottle," it can cause you to freak out, wondering what on God's green earth he's looking at. Upon further investigation, you might die of laughter when you realize it's a bottle-shaped punching bag with a hook to attach it to a door frame. Of course. A hooker. With a bottle.
*****
Any random tidbits of advice you want to share with me this week?
Namaste.
Monday, October 3, 2011
Monday Confessional
I've been seeing a lot of my favorite bloggers confess things here and there and it sounds so darn therapeutic that I decided to join the fun. Without further adieu, here are my deep, dark confessions.
* G is 13 months old and still doesn't sleep through the night. Ever. And I realize that I could let him cry it out, but it's not right for us, so I nurse him. Every. Single. Night. Typically around 3 am.
* I am late for work just about every day. Less than five minutes, but late nonetheless. Today, I was on time, but I forgot L's blankets for naptime. I simply don't have it all together, and never will.
* I try to live simply; I truly believe that I am not even remotely materialistic, but last weekend, I had a HUGE meltdown over our financial situation.
* I worry regularly about one of my boys contracting a life-threatening illness.
* The level of my perfectionism when it comes to my artwork is unhealthy.
* My car is disgusting. It even embarrasses me. Does anyone have a good in-car toy/book organization system that they can recommend?
* I am quick to remind B to use Love and Logic strategies when he snaps, albeit minimally, at L, yet Love and Logic tends to go out the window with me more than I'd like to admit.
* The gluten-free beer that I blogged about on Friday is good. So good that I had a few this weekend, and both days, I may have started drinking around noon. Allegedly. Okay, I did. I did. I'm confessing honestly.
* I tweet too much. I want to stay away from it more and concentrate on my boys (all three of them) but that darn Twitter sucks me right in.
* I have a bonus free block of time on Monday mornings (I know it won't last long) and I'm currently blogging from work during said time. Shhh.
What do YOU want to confess today?
* G is 13 months old and still doesn't sleep through the night. Ever. And I realize that I could let him cry it out, but it's not right for us, so I nurse him. Every. Single. Night. Typically around 3 am.
* I am late for work just about every day. Less than five minutes, but late nonetheless. Today, I was on time, but I forgot L's blankets for naptime. I simply don't have it all together, and never will.
* I try to live simply; I truly believe that I am not even remotely materialistic, but last weekend, I had a HUGE meltdown over our financial situation.
* I worry regularly about one of my boys contracting a life-threatening illness.
* The level of my perfectionism when it comes to my artwork is unhealthy.
* My car is disgusting. It even embarrasses me. Does anyone have a good in-car toy/book organization system that they can recommend?
* I am quick to remind B to use Love and Logic strategies when he snaps, albeit minimally, at L, yet Love and Logic tends to go out the window with me more than I'd like to admit.
* The gluten-free beer that I blogged about on Friday is good. So good that I had a few this weekend, and both days, I may have started drinking around noon. Allegedly. Okay, I did. I did. I'm confessing honestly.
* I tweet too much. I want to stay away from it more and concentrate on my boys (all three of them) but that darn Twitter sucks me right in.
* I have a bonus free block of time on Monday mornings (I know it won't last long) and I'm currently blogging from work during said time. Shhh.
What do YOU want to confess today?
Friday, September 23, 2011
This Week I've Learned......
* that even if I've forgiven people's transgressions in the past, it doesn't mean that they'll return the favor.
* that quinoa pasta is God's gift to gluten-free dieters.
* that internet drama can bring me to hiccupping sobs and force me to walk away from Twitter, possibly indefinitely.
* that zinnias can grow much taller than one expects, completely messing up a landscaping vision.
* that it is necessary but sad to sometimes re-evaluate friendships.
* that a hug from a first grader can be extraordinarily therapeutic.
* that seeing The Lion King with your sensitive four-year-old will make me wish I brought enough kleenex for us both.
* that I'm far too impulsive for my own good.
* that I can't control my giggles when a 6-year-old says, "I'm learning about pronouns. Them are fun."
* that loyalty can bite you in the butt.
* that someone acting very Switzerland-esque and showing kindness can mean more than I ever thought possible.
* that a secondhanded compliment from my boss saying that I've changed a student's life will give me goosebumps.
* that a good friend who sends me daily Scripture texts can send me exactly what I need to hear two days in a row, namely:
"This small and temporary trouble we suffer will bring us a tremendous and eternal glory, much greater than the trouble." (2 Corinthians 4:17)
...and...
"If you won't love the person you can see, how can you love the God you can't see?" (1 John 4:20).
Namaste.
* that quinoa pasta is God's gift to gluten-free dieters.
* that internet drama can bring me to hiccupping sobs and force me to walk away from Twitter, possibly indefinitely.
* that zinnias can grow much taller than one expects, completely messing up a landscaping vision.
* that it is necessary but sad to sometimes re-evaluate friendships.
* that a hug from a first grader can be extraordinarily therapeutic.
* that seeing The Lion King with your sensitive four-year-old will make me wish I brought enough kleenex for us both.
* that I'm far too impulsive for my own good.
* that I can't control my giggles when a 6-year-old says, "I'm learning about pronouns. Them are fun."
* that loyalty can bite you in the butt.
* that someone acting very Switzerland-esque and showing kindness can mean more than I ever thought possible.
* that a secondhanded compliment from my boss saying that I've changed a student's life will give me goosebumps.
* that a good friend who sends me daily Scripture texts can send me exactly what I need to hear two days in a row, namely:
"This small and temporary trouble we suffer will bring us a tremendous and eternal glory, much greater than the trouble." (2 Corinthians 4:17)
...and...
"If you won't love the person you can see, how can you love the God you can't see?" (1 John 4:20).
Namaste.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Highs, Lows, and a Whole Lotta Puke
I hate roller coasters. I don't even like to watch other people ride them. I attribute this to my mom taking me on the Screamin' Eagle at six years old. I'm a wuss and never recovered.
I've been on quite the roller coaster ride over the last 24 hours. Make sure your harness is on tight because I'm going to take you along for the ride.
Low: Waking up to L vomiting yesterday morning and realizing that G's puking the last couple of days was indeed a stomach virus and not drainage-induced.
High: Being grateful that for once, my procrastination paid off...I hadn't begun any of the food preparation for G's birthday party that day.
Low: Shedding a few tears over the fact that my baby's first birthday party was going to have to be postponed and possibly cancelled.
High: Thanks to the help of my good friend Elizabeth, figuring out Plan B with which I'm actually happier.
Low: Coming down with the stomach flu myself in the midst of the madness.
High: Being glad that I'd only have to burn one sick day since I already called a sub so that I could take care of L the next day.
Low: B starting to feel "queasy" and promptly lying down in bed with L, leaving me to toss my gluten-free cookies in a trash can in the living room so I could watch G.
High: Getting sweet tweets from my Twitter besties.
Low: Having an insanely rough night due to the fact that I was dehydrated and therefore leaving my little piglet wanting more milk. Every three hours.
High: Waking up this morning to have L tell me, "Don't worry, Mommy, I'll take care of you."
Low: Realizing that the roofers would be starting on our new roof today and I'd not be getting a nap I so desperately needed.
High: Getting a call from the roofing company saying that "unfortunately" they were behind and wouldn't be able to start on our roof until tomorrow.
Low: Still feeling pretty darn crappy for the rest of the day.
High: Realizing that L was serious about his care-taking role as he brought me diapers for G, snacks, and a plethora of hugs. And finding that I was far tougher than I thought possible.
What were your highs and lows lately?
I've been on quite the roller coaster ride over the last 24 hours. Make sure your harness is on tight because I'm going to take you along for the ride.
Low: Waking up to L vomiting yesterday morning and realizing that G's puking the last couple of days was indeed a stomach virus and not drainage-induced.
High: Being grateful that for once, my procrastination paid off...I hadn't begun any of the food preparation for G's birthday party that day.
Low: Shedding a few tears over the fact that my baby's first birthday party was going to have to be postponed and possibly cancelled.
High: Thanks to the help of my good friend Elizabeth, figuring out Plan B with which I'm actually happier.
Low: Coming down with the stomach flu myself in the midst of the madness.
High: Being glad that I'd only have to burn one sick day since I already called a sub so that I could take care of L the next day.
Low: B starting to feel "queasy" and promptly lying down in bed with L, leaving me to toss my gluten-free cookies in a trash can in the living room so I could watch G.
High: Getting sweet tweets from my Twitter besties.
Low: Having an insanely rough night due to the fact that I was dehydrated and therefore leaving my little piglet wanting more milk. Every three hours.
High: Waking up this morning to have L tell me, "Don't worry, Mommy, I'll take care of you."
Low: Realizing that the roofers would be starting on our new roof today and I'd not be getting a nap I so desperately needed.
High: Getting a call from the roofing company saying that "unfortunately" they were behind and wouldn't be able to start on our roof until tomorrow.
Low: Still feeling pretty darn crappy for the rest of the day.
High: Realizing that L was serious about his care-taking role as he brought me diapers for G, snacks, and a plethora of hugs. And finding that I was far tougher than I thought possible.
What were your highs and lows lately?
Thursday, April 28, 2011
These days
These days...I feel like my life is spinning out of control. There are not enough hours in the day. I feel like a puppy chasing its tail. Like a chicken with its head cut off. All of the cliches completely fit and don't seem so cliche. I haven't had time to post blogs. To read blogs. To play Words With Friends. Or Lexulous. You know that when your uncle sends you a text message to say, "You haven't made a move in over 24 hours...I'm worried sick about you," you are meeting yourself coming and going. Or the cliche of your choice. They all fit.
These days...I can't figure out what on earth is taking up my time. God knows I'm not cooking. I'm not talking to my friends, or responding to e-mails. I am not working out more than usual. I'm not even watching television. Chasing two little boys requires a lot of time, I suppose.
These days...I am considering some big decisions. In fact, they are life-changing decisions. And before you ask, NO, another baby isn't even a possibility at this point. In fact, I'll be actively seeking urologists in the area before too long. The big decisions I am attempting to make should be decided within the next week. When they have been, I'll provide more details. In the meantime, throw a prayer my way for wisdom if you feel so inclined.
These days...I am counting the days till summer break. Twenty-five is the magic number of the day. I am dreaming of sun on my shoulders, of the delicious smell of sunscreen, of midday naps, of no deadlines other than library due dates, of barbecue and swimming and long days and picnic lunches. I'm also dreaming and hoping and praying daily that a special summer trip comes to fruition.
These days...I am a little frustrated over my dwindling milk supply. Even though my little man still gets up to nurse most nights, I take Fenugreek, drink gallons of water and a root beer every night, I'm officially not keeping up. I'll start supplementing tonight and pray that I make enough for him to continue getting exclusively breast milk bottles at school. My hope is that the decreased stress of summer will bring an increased supply for my babe.
These days...I have become happily reunited with yoga. I have found an amazing yoga instructor who inspires me to try poses that I know I won't be able to master quite yet. I smile through inversions, struggle through attempts at firefly pose, and put every ounce of focus I have into my king dancer pose. I marvel at the girl in the class who is completely blind. I am inspired by the meaning of the chant at the end of class, "The light within me salutes the light within you. Namaste."
These days are short and yet they often feel so long. These days will be missed when my babies have to lean down to kiss me; when the pouting is because they can't borrow my car; when I worry about beer in their bottles instead of formula. One day, I'll look back on these days fondly.
These days...I can't figure out what on earth is taking up my time. God knows I'm not cooking. I'm not talking to my friends, or responding to e-mails. I am not working out more than usual. I'm not even watching television. Chasing two little boys requires a lot of time, I suppose.
These days...I am considering some big decisions. In fact, they are life-changing decisions. And before you ask, NO, another baby isn't even a possibility at this point. In fact, I'll be actively seeking urologists in the area before too long. The big decisions I am attempting to make should be decided within the next week. When they have been, I'll provide more details. In the meantime, throw a prayer my way for wisdom if you feel so inclined.
These days...I am counting the days till summer break. Twenty-five is the magic number of the day. I am dreaming of sun on my shoulders, of the delicious smell of sunscreen, of midday naps, of no deadlines other than library due dates, of barbecue and swimming and long days and picnic lunches. I'm also dreaming and hoping and praying daily that a special summer trip comes to fruition.
These days...I am a little frustrated over my dwindling milk supply. Even though my little man still gets up to nurse most nights, I take Fenugreek, drink gallons of water and a root beer every night, I'm officially not keeping up. I'll start supplementing tonight and pray that I make enough for him to continue getting exclusively breast milk bottles at school. My hope is that the decreased stress of summer will bring an increased supply for my babe.
These days...I have become happily reunited with yoga. I have found an amazing yoga instructor who inspires me to try poses that I know I won't be able to master quite yet. I smile through inversions, struggle through attempts at firefly pose, and put every ounce of focus I have into my king dancer pose. I marvel at the girl in the class who is completely blind. I am inspired by the meaning of the chant at the end of class, "The light within me salutes the light within you. Namaste."
These days are short and yet they often feel so long. These days will be missed when my babies have to lean down to kiss me; when the pouting is because they can't borrow my car; when I worry about beer in their bottles instead of formula. One day, I'll look back on these days fondly.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Sunday Snippets
I don't have much going on at the moment. Goodness knows that's not necessarily a bad thing, but as for blog fodder? Meh. So I present, Sunday snippets.
***
G continues to hold the title of The World's Worst Sleeper. I've tried sleep training. I've tried cosleeping. I've tried everything. The boy just does not enjoy sleeping. Last night he was up three times. Sometimes, he'll sleep through the night seven nights in a row...and then he's all, "You liked that? Too bad, sucka." Oh well. I'll sleep eventually. Or not.
***
Speaking of G, I am doing something today that is very un-Gina-ish. I'm taking G to a model search. Before you write me off as a psycho stage mom, understand this. My friend Tiffany has her own clothing line and is holding the search for her company. I'll get professional photos of G and whoever gets the most "likes" on Facebook will win. My competitive side is considering doing a giveaway over here on the ole blog. One entry for voting, another for reposting/sharing/tweeting. What should I give away? Maybe I'll give an extra few entries for a winning idea. Aaaand....go!
***
L is learning to read and loving it. I am constantly answering the question, "Mommy, what's dat say?" Last night, he sounded out (with a little help) "On The Run" at a gas station. Then I had to explain why it said "on the run" when we were actually "in the car." He has reached the "why" stage and it's exhausting.
***
Last Friday, I had to say, "Your hand does not belong on my bottom," to two different students. They were not both male.
***
This morning, L brought up his private parts in conversation, which is a common occurrence lately. I reminded him that they are indeed private and quizzed him about who is allowed to touch them. His answer...his girlfriend in his class! Both B and I almost died. And yes, I turned away before he saw me laughing.
***
As if I needed another one, I found the trillionth reason why I love Trader Joe's. They have signs in their store explaining why dark chocolate is good for you and insisting you should eat a little every day. Dark chocolate covered cranberries? Don't mind if I do. Oh...and one more thing, they carry these:
...which taste just like a particular chocolate/coconut girl scout cookie. Seriously. Go buy them. And if you have milk and/or wheat allergies like L? Try these. L is tickled pink that we don't mind that he eats them for breakfast. And we are tickled pink that we found another protein source for him.
And that concludes the most exciting parts of my life right now. Try not to be jealous of the glamour. Namaste.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Giveaway winner and an update on mah life
Dum da da dum.....
The winner is....
I used a random number generator, and it cracked me up, because Brittany won another of my giveaways awhile back. She's got a little lady on the way and it makes me smile to know that her little girl and Mr. G will have similar prints in their rooms.
If you didn't win, go check out Kristen's shop and enter the code "Namaste" to get 10% off your order. Hurry...it's only good through April 15.
****
You may have noticed that I've been a bit absent around these parts lately.
I used to check my blogs while on my lunch break and any other time that I had a few minutes between students but I've been ridiculously busy at work lately that I haven't had time.
Well, I've been busy and I've found the addiction that is Words With Friends. Seriously...are there subliminal messages in that game or what?
In the evenings, besides making G's food/squeezing in workouts/training for my 5K with my students/playing with L, we are attempting to do some work around our house to prepare it to be put on the market.
Want to know something crazy? I'm thinking about attempting to sell it myself. I know, right? I know. But we don't have a ton of money, and I am really good at sales, and I have family members who can help me, so I'm considering it. At least at first. Then when it doesn't sell, I'll come to our real estate friend with my tail between my legs. Anyone ever attempted it? Have anything I must know?
Besides that, things are good.
L is doing fantastically. I just attended his parent-teacher conference the other day and his teacher glowed, telling me about the progress he's made. His strengths are language, gross motor, and social, and his weakness is fine motor. If he didn't constantly make jokes about "stinky toots" and "smelly feet" and tell me to "come look at my poop; it's as big as a garter snake," maybe I'd be surprised that his teacher described him as all-boy.
G is still doing great at his "school" (that's for you, my twistas) too. His artwork (painting with a green pepper) is hanging in the hallway and he has finally started babbling. Finally. I started getting a complex when all he did was grunt. Doesn't look good as a speech-language pathologist mama...just sayin. I am grateful that one of his "classmates" started babbling, because G started that night. Whew. He's also pulling up and last night, let go while standing for a nanosecond. He's not listening when I tell him he's our last baby and slowing his roll would be greatly appreciated.
B and I are doing great. Loving our church like whoa. It is still mind-boggling to not only say we go to church but that it's a non-negotiable in our weekend schedule. We plan everything around it. We love it so much that we download the podcasts each week and as we drive away from the church each week, we already can't wait for the following week's service. This weekend, a group from the church participated in a local half- marathon to raise money to provide water for people who don't have clean drinking water. We agreed that next year, we'll be wearing the Living Water tees.
So that's that. I'll try to be around a little more. Now if you'll excuse me, I have several coughtwentyfivecough Words With Friends games to play.
Friday, March 11, 2011
33 Things that You Never Needed to Know About Me
Mama Perks did a funny "things about me" post that had me rolling. It's a tough act to follow so I won't try to be hilarious like her, but I'm going to list 33 things about me, seeing as I'm 33. (I did do the math to double check my age. Keep reading...you'll understand.) Hopefully you'll learn one or two new facts. When you are open to a fault like me, it's hard to come up with new things to share. Here goes nothin'.
1. I'm stealing my first one from Mama Perks, because her tampon story reminded me of this. When I was a kid, I used to wear those jelly bracelets in my mouth because I always wanted a retainer. I swore to my friends that it was real. Once, my mom came outside and saw me sitting on the porch, talking to my neighbor friends, with a jelly bracelet in my mouth and told me to take it out. When she walked back inside, I explained to my friends that I wasn't "supposed to wear it on the weekend." Yeah. I just admitted that story was true.
2. I have an always-present knot under my left shoulder. After a long day or sometimes just randomly, it gets bigger and more painful. I've tried chiropractics, massage, pain killers, electric stimulation, everything. It never ever goes away. At it's worse, it causes migraines.
3. I am still a little bitter that I never got to go to a New Kids on the Block concert.
4. I partially credit me getting pregnant with G to a special pair of socks. Three other girls have worn the socks and gotten pregnant on their second month wearing them. And if you are wondering, no, you don't have to wear the socks while you are doing the deed for them to work. I'm proof of that.
5. If Hummers weren't such gas guzzlers, I'd totally drive one.
6. I am playing the role of red-headed stepchild at work right now and I'm finally to the point where, sometimes, I can laugh about it. I wish I could blog in detail about this situation but you never know who reads your posts. And that's all I'll say about that.
7. I heart talk radio, especially the funny stuff. In the mornings, I am secretly happy when my iPod is dead and L can't listen to his favorite songs by Train or Rebelution because I love me some talk radio.
8. I hate roller coasters. Passionately. I blame my mom for this because she talked me into riding one when I was a little girl and it scarred me for life. But honestly? I think I'd have hated them regardless.
9. Anything veteran-related makes me cry. I can't even consider watching that new show about soldiers returning home. I will sob. Forever. I think soldiers are heroes and certain rules shouldn't apply to them after they have fought in a war.
10. I never can figure out how people know what a hippie I am. My coworker stopped me in the hall the other day to tell me that she had a dream about me that was so 'me.' In the dream, I was in the grocery store, wearing a peace sign shirt, pushing a cart full of flaxseed and organic fruits and vegetables. While that could certainly happen in real life, I don't wear my peace sign shirts to school and I almost buy cafeteria food every day but I must have a flashing neon sign screaming "Hippie" on my forehead. I'm cool with that but I still think it's weird that people can always tell.
11. People call me G a lot.
12. I LOVE when people call me G.
13. I hate getting dressed up. I wish the whole world wore sweatpants every single day so I wouldn't feel like such a slob when I wear mine.
14. I cannot eat in the dark. Even kind of dark rooms. I must see my food. And I love bright light whether I am eating or not. My husband could live without light. This creates some issues, as you can probably imagine.
15. I am a sucker for boys with curls, especially long-ish, Matthew McConaughey-esque hair.
16. I cannot watch war movies. Maybe it has something to do with that whole veteran thing. I just can't do it. They make me so uncomfortable and upset.
17. I was a huge goody-goody in high school. I got one detention, for skipping study hall and going to the school library. I wish I would have done something more exciting and rebellious to warrant my one detention. I got a little wilder in college. Thank goodness.
18. Every week, my DVR records Say Yes to the Dress, Dr. Phil, Ellen, Jersey Shore, Four Weddings, Survivor, and The Biggest Loser.
19. Someday, I want to go to Africa.
20. I often forget how old I am. I've been known to have to do the math to figure it out.
21. I camped out to attempt to be an extra in a movie once upon a time. It worked.
22. I talk to my mom and my dad every single day. If you would have told me six years ago that now I'd be talking to my mom every day, I'd have told you that you lost your mind.
23. I am ridiculously uncoordinated, but I was a varsity cheerleader. I was probably the worst cheerleader in the history of the world.
24. I really want to get my nose pierced.
25. I used to have daily panic attacks, but after medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy, I haven't had one in years.
26. It's a dream of mine to be in a commercial. Even a local, low-budget commercial would make me happy.
27. I hated high school. Love doesn't begin to describe what I felt about college.
28. I have plantar fasciitis and heel spurs and can't wear heels. To be honest, I should wear my tennis shoes with my orthotics in them every day, but sometimes I wear flats or my Uggs.
29. I miss The OC. And The Sopranos.
30. I love, love, love trees. I have a few tree necklaces, a tree t-shirt, and my diaper bag, lunch box, and yoga mat have trees on them. I'm totally tree obsessed, to be honest. I know if you've been reading my blog for a while, you know this. But I have some new followers and let's face it...if you don't know about my love of trees, you don't really know me. So there you are.
31. I cut and file my 95-year-old grandfather's fingernails regularly. I cherish this time with him and I LOVE the fact that if I haven't made it over to my dad's house (where he lives) and my dad cuts his nails, without fail, he says, "Gina does it better."
32. Watching live theater is one of my favorite things to do, but I always get a dull ache in my heart, longing to be the one onstage. The curtain call always makes me a little teary. Deep down, I honestly believe that if I would have gone to Hollywood when I was young, I'd have made it. I'd never give up my family for that, but maybe when my kids are older, I'll at least do community theater.
33. I've had quite a case of blogger's block lately. Want to know more about any of my 33 things? Let me know which. I'd be thrilled to have new post ideas. Hint, hint.
1. I'm stealing my first one from Mama Perks, because her tampon story reminded me of this. When I was a kid, I used to wear those jelly bracelets in my mouth because I always wanted a retainer. I swore to my friends that it was real. Once, my mom came outside and saw me sitting on the porch, talking to my neighbor friends, with a jelly bracelet in my mouth and told me to take it out. When she walked back inside, I explained to my friends that I wasn't "supposed to wear it on the weekend." Yeah. I just admitted that story was true.
2. I have an always-present knot under my left shoulder. After a long day or sometimes just randomly, it gets bigger and more painful. I've tried chiropractics, massage, pain killers, electric stimulation, everything. It never ever goes away. At it's worse, it causes migraines.
3. I am still a little bitter that I never got to go to a New Kids on the Block concert.
4. I partially credit me getting pregnant with G to a special pair of socks. Three other girls have worn the socks and gotten pregnant on their second month wearing them. And if you are wondering, no, you don't have to wear the socks while you are doing the deed for them to work. I'm proof of that.
5. If Hummers weren't such gas guzzlers, I'd totally drive one.
6. I am playing the role of red-headed stepchild at work right now and I'm finally to the point where, sometimes, I can laugh about it. I wish I could blog in detail about this situation but you never know who reads your posts. And that's all I'll say about that.
7. I heart talk radio, especially the funny stuff. In the mornings, I am secretly happy when my iPod is dead and L can't listen to his favorite songs by Train or Rebelution because I love me some talk radio.
8. I hate roller coasters. Passionately. I blame my mom for this because she talked me into riding one when I was a little girl and it scarred me for life. But honestly? I think I'd have hated them regardless.
9. Anything veteran-related makes me cry. I can't even consider watching that new show about soldiers returning home. I will sob. Forever. I think soldiers are heroes and certain rules shouldn't apply to them after they have fought in a war.
10. I never can figure out how people know what a hippie I am. My coworker stopped me in the hall the other day to tell me that she had a dream about me that was so 'me.' In the dream, I was in the grocery store, wearing a peace sign shirt, pushing a cart full of flaxseed and organic fruits and vegetables. While that could certainly happen in real life, I don't wear my peace sign shirts to school and I almost buy cafeteria food every day but I must have a flashing neon sign screaming "Hippie" on my forehead. I'm cool with that but I still think it's weird that people can always tell.
11. People call me G a lot.
12. I LOVE when people call me G.
13. I hate getting dressed up. I wish the whole world wore sweatpants every single day so I wouldn't feel like such a slob when I wear mine.
14. I cannot eat in the dark. Even kind of dark rooms. I must see my food. And I love bright light whether I am eating or not. My husband could live without light. This creates some issues, as you can probably imagine.
15. I am a sucker for boys with curls, especially long-ish, Matthew McConaughey-esque hair.
16. I cannot watch war movies. Maybe it has something to do with that whole veteran thing. I just can't do it. They make me so uncomfortable and upset.
17. I was a huge goody-goody in high school. I got one detention, for skipping study hall and going to the school library. I wish I would have done something more exciting and rebellious to warrant my one detention. I got a little wilder in college. Thank goodness.
18. Every week, my DVR records Say Yes to the Dress, Dr. Phil, Ellen, Jersey Shore, Four Weddings, Survivor, and The Biggest Loser.
19. Someday, I want to go to Africa.
20. I often forget how old I am. I've been known to have to do the math to figure it out.
21. I camped out to attempt to be an extra in a movie once upon a time. It worked.
22. I talk to my mom and my dad every single day. If you would have told me six years ago that now I'd be talking to my mom every day, I'd have told you that you lost your mind.
23. I am ridiculously uncoordinated, but I was a varsity cheerleader. I was probably the worst cheerleader in the history of the world.
24. I really want to get my nose pierced.
25. I used to have daily panic attacks, but after medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy, I haven't had one in years.
26. It's a dream of mine to be in a commercial. Even a local, low-budget commercial would make me happy.
27. I hated high school. Love doesn't begin to describe what I felt about college.
28. I have plantar fasciitis and heel spurs and can't wear heels. To be honest, I should wear my tennis shoes with my orthotics in them every day, but sometimes I wear flats or my Uggs.
29. I miss The OC. And The Sopranos.
30. I love, love, love trees. I have a few tree necklaces, a tree t-shirt, and my diaper bag, lunch box, and yoga mat have trees on them. I'm totally tree obsessed, to be honest. I know if you've been reading my blog for a while, you know this. But I have some new followers and let's face it...if you don't know about my love of trees, you don't really know me. So there you are.
31. I cut and file my 95-year-old grandfather's fingernails regularly. I cherish this time with him and I LOVE the fact that if I haven't made it over to my dad's house (where he lives) and my dad cuts his nails, without fail, he says, "Gina does it better."
32. Watching live theater is one of my favorite things to do, but I always get a dull ache in my heart, longing to be the one onstage. The curtain call always makes me a little teary. Deep down, I honestly believe that if I would have gone to Hollywood when I was young, I'd have made it. I'd never give up my family for that, but maybe when my kids are older, I'll at least do community theater.
33. I've had quite a case of blogger's block lately. Want to know more about any of my 33 things? Let me know which. I'd be thrilled to have new post ideas. Hint, hint.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Tuesday Tidbits
I started a new antidepressant this weekend. The first one I tried gave me the worst case of insomnia ever. If you suffer from insomnia, you should get to wear a tiara and a cape. I don't know how anyone can deal with that. I was up from 12:30 am to 4:30 am two nights in a row and calling that awful is beyond an understatement. So. Now I'm on another medication that also helps ADD (yay!) but I am definitely experiencing the appetite loss side effect, among others. Tricky stuff, these meds.
*****
Due to a series of unfortunate events, G now goes to L's school full-time. (Some of my bloggy-friends laugh when I refer to G's "school"...they say they imagine him in glasses, reading. )The thing is, it's more than a day care. They do sensory time and fine motor activities every single day. Their lesson plans are posted outside the room, linking to state standards. There is a registered nurse on staff, and I couldn't be happier with his teachers. And G has become quite popular at school. I can't get him out the door of the center without 4 or 5 people stopping to greet him by name. Apparently, he is the flirt of the school. I wonder where he gets that, wink wink.
*****
I haven't posted about breastfeeding lately. The good news is that it is still going, and going well. G loves to nurse, and I love to nurse him. He takes bottles of expressed milk at school really, really well, although he refuses a bottle from me, which makes me laugh. He still gets up once a night to eat, but my work bestie made a really good point...that is probably why my supply has stayed strong. Gotta love the silver lining!
*****
A while back, Abbie recommended the book Lost in the Woods, so I got it from the library and read it to L. L, like his mama, is a sucker for mamas and their kids getting reunited. (We were both bawling at the end of Where the Wild Things Are.) The book made him cry, but he still loved it. Now Abbie is hosting a giveaway for that movie on her blog. Go check it out, comment, and mention my name to help my little man's chances! If I win, I'll give it to him as part of his birthday gift...can you believe he'll be FOUR in less than a month?
*****
I'm due for an upgrade on my phone this month and I am finally going to get a smartphone from Sprint. (Yes, I realize I am the last person to get a smartphone.) I struggle with picking out my clothes in the morning, so this is quite a dilemma for me. Qwerty or no qwerty? Do I get a Crackberry? Anything you have tried and loved...or hated? Hook a blog-sister up with some suggestions, please!
*****
*****
Due to a series of unfortunate events, G now goes to L's school full-time. (Some of my bloggy-friends laugh when I refer to G's "school"...they say they imagine him in glasses, reading. )The thing is, it's more than a day care. They do sensory time and fine motor activities every single day. Their lesson plans are posted outside the room, linking to state standards. There is a registered nurse on staff, and I couldn't be happier with his teachers. And G has become quite popular at school. I can't get him out the door of the center without 4 or 5 people stopping to greet him by name. Apparently, he is the flirt of the school. I wonder where he gets that, wink wink.
*****
I haven't posted about breastfeeding lately. The good news is that it is still going, and going well. G loves to nurse, and I love to nurse him. He takes bottles of expressed milk at school really, really well, although he refuses a bottle from me, which makes me laugh. He still gets up once a night to eat, but my work bestie made a really good point...that is probably why my supply has stayed strong. Gotta love the silver lining!
*****
A while back, Abbie recommended the book Lost in the Woods, so I got it from the library and read it to L. L, like his mama, is a sucker for mamas and their kids getting reunited. (We were both bawling at the end of Where the Wild Things Are.) The book made him cry, but he still loved it. Now Abbie is hosting a giveaway for that movie on her blog. Go check it out, comment, and mention my name to help my little man's chances! If I win, I'll give it to him as part of his birthday gift...can you believe he'll be FOUR in less than a month?
*****
I'm due for an upgrade on my phone this month and I am finally going to get a smartphone from Sprint. (Yes, I realize I am the last person to get a smartphone.) I struggle with picking out my clothes in the morning, so this is quite a dilemma for me. Qwerty or no qwerty? Do I get a Crackberry? Anything you have tried and loved...or hated? Hook a blog-sister up with some suggestions, please!
*****
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens...
....these are a few of my favorite things....
Well. Those aren't. I mean, I've never been a fan of roses. And cats...don't get me started on my feelings about cats. (Sorry, cat-lovers. I had a great cat for a while. Really.)
I digress.
I've seen some cute "favorite things" posts around the blogosphere and I personally love them. If you don't, well, peace out, girl scout. If you want to know what I'm diggin' these days, read on.
First up, you all know I love me some Etsy. I've found some great new shops lately and my good friend and babysitter extraordinaire Melissa has opened her own shop with a fantastic idea. Slipcovers for your kitchen chairs for your messy toddlers! I know, right? I don't have cute cushions for my kitchen chairs, but I plan to make them (staple gun say what?) over my Spring Break. And when I do, I'm going to hook up one of these. Go check them out here.
Second, I've posted about this company before, but dude. I found the best. lip balm. ever. Goat Milk Stuff has outdone themselves with this stuff. Get it in peppermint and thank me later. And while you are there, pick up one of their sugar scrubs and exfoliate to your heart's content. I love that their products are all natural and inexpensive. That combination is almost nonexistent these days. Oh, I also got a bar of their soap in Baby Powder for G and I have three words for the way he smells after I use it. Nom. Nom. Nom.
Also, I'm going to let you in on a secret. I have found the best deep cleanser in the universe. And it's made by Burt's Bees. I ran out of it for a while and was too lazy to go to the store. Immediately, my face broke out. My friend Laura clued me into the amazingness that is this product and I am forever grateful. I got mine at Target, but you can also get it here.
While we are talking about the best products ever, I have to fill you in on this cleaner I found. It's by Shaklee, who I love so much that I'm considering selling their products. I am a germophobe but also pretty granola, if you haven't noticed. Shaklee's stuff is all natural and earth-friendly, but their germicide kills 40+ types of nastiness. It's all I use in my bathrooms. I gave samples to two of my friends this week and they were blown away. Also? You only need a tiny bit, so the giant bottle you get will literally last you years.
I feel like I need to be vlogging on here in a tv announcer voice, "But that's not all!" I didn't actually mean to post an infomercial-esque post, especially considering I'm not getting paid for any of these endorsements.
What are YOU loving this week?
Well. Those aren't. I mean, I've never been a fan of roses. And cats...don't get me started on my feelings about cats. (Sorry, cat-lovers. I had a great cat for a while. Really.)
I digress.
I've seen some cute "favorite things" posts around the blogosphere and I personally love them. If you don't, well, peace out, girl scout. If you want to know what I'm diggin' these days, read on.
First up, you all know I love me some Etsy. I've found some great new shops lately and my good friend and babysitter extraordinaire Melissa has opened her own shop with a fantastic idea. Slipcovers for your kitchen chairs for your messy toddlers! I know, right? I don't have cute cushions for my kitchen chairs, but I plan to make them (staple gun say what?) over my Spring Break. And when I do, I'm going to hook up one of these. Go check them out here.
Second, I've posted about this company before, but dude. I found the best. lip balm. ever. Goat Milk Stuff has outdone themselves with this stuff. Get it in peppermint and thank me later. And while you are there, pick up one of their sugar scrubs and exfoliate to your heart's content. I love that their products are all natural and inexpensive. That combination is almost nonexistent these days. Oh, I also got a bar of their soap in Baby Powder for G and I have three words for the way he smells after I use it. Nom. Nom. Nom.
Also, I'm going to let you in on a secret. I have found the best deep cleanser in the universe. And it's made by Burt's Bees. I ran out of it for a while and was too lazy to go to the store. Immediately, my face broke out. My friend Laura clued me into the amazingness that is this product and I am forever grateful. I got mine at Target, but you can also get it here.
While we are talking about the best products ever, I have to fill you in on this cleaner I found. It's by Shaklee, who I love so much that I'm considering selling their products. I am a germophobe but also pretty granola, if you haven't noticed. Shaklee's stuff is all natural and earth-friendly, but their germicide kills 40+ types of nastiness. It's all I use in my bathrooms. I gave samples to two of my friends this week and they were blown away. Also? You only need a tiny bit, so the giant bottle you get will literally last you years.
I feel like I need to be vlogging on here in a tv announcer voice, "But that's not all!" I didn't actually mean to post an infomercial-esque post, especially considering I'm not getting paid for any of these endorsements.
What are YOU loving this week?
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Sunday Night Randomness
I opened up Blogger today to find that I have several new followers. And some of you are of the anonymous variety. I love new followers, anonymous or not, but you know, I won't argue if you peek your head out and introduce yourself. Just sayin'.
I'd love to post something inspirational and positive, but the truth is, I'm having a rough weekend. We've been sick with this cold for three solid weeks, G has reverted back to his newborn sleeping ways, and today, something extra crappy happened.
I realized I lost our camera. Sob. It was a nice point and shoot, and I haven't seen it since I took it outside on Thursday to take pictures of the snowman that L and I built. We have turned the house upside down, and it's nowhere to be found. Granted, with my track record, it could be in the refrigerator or in G's toy box. But for now, it's gone. I'm afraid it was stolen out of our garage, or I left it on my car and drove off.
Not only does that mean that I don't have a camera to take pictures of my boys, it means that we are out a significant amount of money.I was attempting to squirrel away money for something special for this summer. Before the camera loss, it was unlikely. Now, it's next to impossible, barring a miracle.
So.
I'm sad. I know in the grand scheme of things, the loss of a camera is stupid. It doesn't take away my wallowing, though.
Hence the lack of fluff. Therefore, since I am sure that my new followers are just dying to know which of my five statements from this post are true, I'll hook you up.
1. I have a sick fascination with smashing spiders. The less of them there are in this world, the better.
So not true. I am that girl who rescues the spiders and takes them outside. This is especially fun at my work, where I am surrounded by a bunch of women who wig out at the site of a spider. Yeah, I'm also that girl who scares my coworkers with said spiders.
2. If given the opportunity, I'd jump at the chance to hang out with the cast of Jersey Shore for a weekend.
This is the true one. I love me some Jersey Shore...fist-pumping, poofs, and all. I blame it on my Italian heritage. I may or may not have a crush on Vinny, even though I am probably almost old enough to be his mother. I laugh so hard the entire hour of that show that my face hurts upon it ending.
3. I love celebrity gossip but refuse to spend a dime on trashy gossip magazines.
I have a subscription to US Weekly. And when my issues were two weeks late his week, I thought my subscription had ended and I bought another trash rag. Later that day, I got the two US's and got a little giddy over the fact that I could read to my heart's content about how Jake Gyllenhall also buys toilet paper to wipe his arse.
4. I paint my toenails at least every other week.
This one is probably the one that is furthest from the truth. I just painted my toenails today to try to cheer myself up. It had been so long that I had let a pedicure completely grow out, meaning no polish remover involved. Do you realize how long that takes?
5. During the winter, I only shave my legs, on average, once a month.
See #2. That whole Italian heritage thing...if I waited a month to shave my legs, it'd be growing out my corduroys. I shave my legs daily. Really.
And that's that. Only one person got it right, (what's up, Biz?) and I'm not sure what that says about me. Or you.
Here's hoping my week is full of miracles including me finding my camera and/or a big chunk of change.
Or at least some really blogworthy days at work to get me out of this funk.
Namaste.
I'd love to post something inspirational and positive, but the truth is, I'm having a rough weekend. We've been sick with this cold for three solid weeks, G has reverted back to his newborn sleeping ways, and today, something extra crappy happened.
I realized I lost our camera. Sob. It was a nice point and shoot, and I haven't seen it since I took it outside on Thursday to take pictures of the snowman that L and I built. We have turned the house upside down, and it's nowhere to be found. Granted, with my track record, it could be in the refrigerator or in G's toy box. But for now, it's gone. I'm afraid it was stolen out of our garage, or I left it on my car and drove off.
Not only does that mean that I don't have a camera to take pictures of my boys, it means that we are out a significant amount of money.I was attempting to squirrel away money for something special for this summer. Before the camera loss, it was unlikely. Now, it's next to impossible, barring a miracle.
So.
I'm sad. I know in the grand scheme of things, the loss of a camera is stupid. It doesn't take away my wallowing, though.
Hence the lack of fluff. Therefore, since I am sure that my new followers are just dying to know which of my five statements from this post are true, I'll hook you up.
1. I have a sick fascination with smashing spiders. The less of them there are in this world, the better.
So not true. I am that girl who rescues the spiders and takes them outside. This is especially fun at my work, where I am surrounded by a bunch of women who wig out at the site of a spider. Yeah, I'm also that girl who scares my coworkers with said spiders.
2. If given the opportunity, I'd jump at the chance to hang out with the cast of Jersey Shore for a weekend.
This is the true one. I love me some Jersey Shore...fist-pumping, poofs, and all. I blame it on my Italian heritage. I may or may not have a crush on Vinny, even though I am probably almost old enough to be his mother. I laugh so hard the entire hour of that show that my face hurts upon it ending.
3. I love celebrity gossip but refuse to spend a dime on trashy gossip magazines.
I have a subscription to US Weekly. And when my issues were two weeks late his week, I thought my subscription had ended and I bought another trash rag. Later that day, I got the two US's and got a little giddy over the fact that I could read to my heart's content about how Jake Gyllenhall also buys toilet paper to wipe his arse.
4. I paint my toenails at least every other week.
This one is probably the one that is furthest from the truth. I just painted my toenails today to try to cheer myself up. It had been so long that I had let a pedicure completely grow out, meaning no polish remover involved. Do you realize how long that takes?
5. During the winter, I only shave my legs, on average, once a month.
See #2. That whole Italian heritage thing...if I waited a month to shave my legs, it'd be growing out my corduroys. I shave my legs daily. Really.
And that's that. Only one person got it right, (what's up, Biz?) and I'm not sure what that says about me. Or you.
Here's hoping my week is full of miracles including me finding my camera and/or a big chunk of change.
Or at least some really blogworthy days at work to get me out of this funk.
Namaste.
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