Pinch me....It could not possibly be February. I'm looking out the window of the hotel bar here in Punta Cana, to a slighty cloudy, 80 degree day with palm trees and green water.
I don't even want to go through the format I normally use to blog because it will make me too sad. Thinking that I am missing the best Jack and Mallie moments each day that we're gone is making me queasy. But there have been lots of best Tommy moments to distract me.
One thing has become crystal clear to me. I love my life at home. Don't get me wrong. It is wonderful to enjoy fun in the sun in the middle of winter. But it would never tempt me to stay away for longer than 5-6 days. This little trip is going to get me by for a loooooooooong time. Where some people need trips like this sporatically throughout the year, I could never do it. I love my kids and what they do and how they sound and the way they feel. They are my favorite people to spend time with. I can only imagine Jack jumping into this pool at this resort with his water wings on like a little monkey. Or Mallie playing with beach toys on a beach towl under a palm tree with her little diaper sticking out of her two-piece bathing suit. It would have been so much fun....in a different way.
And I love my house and my stuff and my bed and just the thought of feeling my feet on my bedroom carpet while I unpack makes my stomach jump in excitement. It is true that trips like this probably help you to see these things. But it didn't take me long. I am so lucky.
I've also have a new-found respect for what Tommy does. He works really hard and is really smart and good at what he does. He's providing a really, really wonderful life for me and Jack and Mallie. For us to be able to go on a trip like this, on his income, and still live more than comfortably is remarkable.
That's all for now. I think I'll go back to the beach for a while.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Wednesday, February 20th, 2008
Most grateful moment: When Jack woke up from his nap today. He didn't sleep for a long time, but I realized how much I got finished in the time he did. I picked up the whole house, did 2 loads of laundry, made all the favors for Dede's party, and made dinner.
One thing I learned today: when Mallie hits her head on something (falling onto the floor from sitting position this evening) she can hold her breath for a good 30 seconds and turn blue around her mouth, without passing out....and then recover in the next minute to the point where she is in hysterical laughter. Amazing. And slightly unnerving (the not breathing part).
One moment I wish I could redo: As I began writing tonight, Tommy was checking the reviews for the resort we'll be staying in Punta Cana next week. He noted several negative reviews (nothing horrible though) but then said that even the negative reviews raved about the beach. It's supposed to be beautiful. You lay out in lounge chairs under palm trees and people walk around to take food and drink orders. Why is this the moment I would redo???? Because we aren't leaving for 4 days and now it's going to seem like an eternity!!!
Best life tip: Make your house an 'open door policy' house. I realize some people can't handle people stopping by unexpectedly.... but I always wanted this for my own house. I love that people (especially my brothers-in-law) feel comfortable enough to stop in any night for food or just to hang out. It is always great to have them here. I remember Jill Sefl's house (the Novak house) growing up was like that. I always felt welcome and so at home there.
Biggest laugh of the day: This is kind of a long story, but worth the read!!!
Jimmy was over tonight and we were hanging out on the couch with the kids. Jimmy asked Jack who his favorite person in the whole world was. To which he replied "Papa"...without missing a beat. Then Jimmy asked who his 2nd favorite person in the whole world is. He stopped a second and said 'Grandma'. So, continuing (most likely to figure out where he fit into this whole picture), he asked "Jack, who is number 3?". Jack replied, "Daddy" (to which Tommy almost leapt off of the couch in glee that he was in front of me on this list). But Jack quickly added, "Mommy's 4". The fact that Jack knew what number we were on the count down baffled me....along with the fact that I was so far down on the list. It was truly hilarious. And depressing.
Best Tommy moment: Tommy fed Mallie her whole bowl of oatmeal and pears tonight for her dinner. He loves feeding her , but asked me to get it ready. I told him he'd have to do it because I was getting our dinner on the table. By the time he finished preparing this small bowl of food, 3 bowls were dirty, all of the cabinents in the kitchen were open, oatmeal was all over the counters and the faucet was running. The whole process took at least 5 minutes- as opposed to the under 1 minute it would have taken me. But it was entertaining to watch and cute that he was trying. This was the best Tommy moment, not because I like making fun of him- but because he was making an effort and it made me realize that I'm pretty efficient at that job. I think I'll do it for him next time.
Best Jack moment: Jack teaching Mallie how to dribble a basketball. Jack brought his big basketball up from the basement this afternoon and gave it to Mallie, who was sitting in her swing watching me make dinner. The ball is as big as she is and she just sat there staring at the huge sphere that was in her face all of a sudden. Jack instructed, "No, no, Mallie..... you have to dribble." SO he took it from her and showed her how to dribble, and then gave it back to her and watched, expecting her to miraculously get out of her swing and start dribbling th eball around the room. I think he got frustrated with the whole thing after a few minutes, and headed back in the basement to find some other toy to torture her with.
Best Mallie moment: When I changed Mallie into her jammies tonight. I took her clothes off and let her sit in her diaper on the couch. As soon as her clothes came off, she got ecstatic and started shimmying around on her butt. Her mouth was wide open in a huge smile. She is rarely without clothes and loves the freedom!!!
One thing I learned today: when Mallie hits her head on something (falling onto the floor from sitting position this evening) she can hold her breath for a good 30 seconds and turn blue around her mouth, without passing out....and then recover in the next minute to the point where she is in hysterical laughter. Amazing. And slightly unnerving (the not breathing part).
One moment I wish I could redo: As I began writing tonight, Tommy was checking the reviews for the resort we'll be staying in Punta Cana next week. He noted several negative reviews (nothing horrible though) but then said that even the negative reviews raved about the beach. It's supposed to be beautiful. You lay out in lounge chairs under palm trees and people walk around to take food and drink orders. Why is this the moment I would redo???? Because we aren't leaving for 4 days and now it's going to seem like an eternity!!!
Best life tip: Make your house an 'open door policy' house. I realize some people can't handle people stopping by unexpectedly.... but I always wanted this for my own house. I love that people (especially my brothers-in-law) feel comfortable enough to stop in any night for food or just to hang out. It is always great to have them here. I remember Jill Sefl's house (the Novak house) growing up was like that. I always felt welcome and so at home there.
Biggest laugh of the day: This is kind of a long story, but worth the read!!!
Jimmy was over tonight and we were hanging out on the couch with the kids. Jimmy asked Jack who his favorite person in the whole world was. To which he replied "Papa"...without missing a beat. Then Jimmy asked who his 2nd favorite person in the whole world is. He stopped a second and said 'Grandma'. So, continuing (most likely to figure out where he fit into this whole picture), he asked "Jack, who is number 3?". Jack replied, "Daddy" (to which Tommy almost leapt off of the couch in glee that he was in front of me on this list). But Jack quickly added, "Mommy's 4". The fact that Jack knew what number we were on the count down baffled me....along with the fact that I was so far down on the list. It was truly hilarious. And depressing.
Best Tommy moment: Tommy fed Mallie her whole bowl of oatmeal and pears tonight for her dinner. He loves feeding her , but asked me to get it ready. I told him he'd have to do it because I was getting our dinner on the table. By the time he finished preparing this small bowl of food, 3 bowls were dirty, all of the cabinents in the kitchen were open, oatmeal was all over the counters and the faucet was running. The whole process took at least 5 minutes- as opposed to the under 1 minute it would have taken me. But it was entertaining to watch and cute that he was trying. This was the best Tommy moment, not because I like making fun of him- but because he was making an effort and it made me realize that I'm pretty efficient at that job. I think I'll do it for him next time.
Best Jack moment: Jack teaching Mallie how to dribble a basketball. Jack brought his big basketball up from the basement this afternoon and gave it to Mallie, who was sitting in her swing watching me make dinner. The ball is as big as she is and she just sat there staring at the huge sphere that was in her face all of a sudden. Jack instructed, "No, no, Mallie..... you have to dribble." SO he took it from her and showed her how to dribble, and then gave it back to her and watched, expecting her to miraculously get out of her swing and start dribbling th eball around the room. I think he got frustrated with the whole thing after a few minutes, and headed back in the basement to find some other toy to torture her with.
Best Mallie moment: When I changed Mallie into her jammies tonight. I took her clothes off and let her sit in her diaper on the couch. As soon as her clothes came off, she got ecstatic and started shimmying around on her butt. Her mouth was wide open in a huge smile. She is rarely without clothes and loves the freedom!!!
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Tuesday, February 19th, 2008
Most grateful moment: Driving in to the parking lot at the rec center, after a week of pink eye and ear infections in our house. It felt like we were among the living again, back into our routine- which I was really enjoying before the kids contracted their germs! My workout was my most grateful moment because it affected my mood for the rest of the day.
One thing I learned today: That I am capable of wasting hours, upon hours putzing around on the computer. I got both the kids sleeping this afternoon at the same time- which was the perfect opportunity to shower. Instead I made the mistake of checking my email and got sucked into cyberspace for 2 hours, with nothing to show for it. Huge waste of time.
One moment I wish I could redo: I wish I hadn't attacked Tommy for leaving Jack's diaper on the floor after giving him a bath. I have a habit of letting my mouth speak before weighing the consequences of what it is saying. The problem is, I know that this is a habit and I am not doing anything to stop it- which causes issues that could easily be avoided.
Best life tip of the day: a sprinkle of garlic salt on a grilled cheese sandwich makes a world of difference.
Biggest laugh of the day: I think was Mallie's! She was laughing harder than I have seen her in a long time while I was tickling her tummy with my nose. Unfortunately, when I do this, along with laughing hysterically, she also grabs as much of my hair as her little fists can hold and hangs on for dear life. Ouch! But it's worth it to hear that little laugh!
Best Tommy moment: Tommy picked up his new glasses today after work. He'll wear them for distances (driving, watching TV, etc.) But he is self-concious about them. He looks really cute in them though!!!
Best Jack moment: Jack was shooting his basketball tonight and threw it to Tommy for him to shoot it. Tommy missed the shot, but Jack still got so excited and threw his arms up in the air and began to yell "Yea!", but he did this all so quickly that his feet came out from under him. He slammed himself on the ground with such force from standing position- he was there one minute and gone the next. Tommy and I both shot up and said 'Are you OK!?' to which he replied, laughing, "Yeah, that funny Mommy! I hit the floor".
Best Mallie moment: Mallie FINALLY started eating her baby food with no effort and actually opening her mouth for a spoonful (instead of my prying it open with the spoon!) It was so shocking to me- as we've been trying to get her to do this for 3 months now! She ate 2 bowl fulls of oatmeal and pears throughout the day. I'm hoping this gets her into a little more of a rigid schedule with her eating and sleeping- now that she's almost 7 months old!!!
One thing I learned today: That I am capable of wasting hours, upon hours putzing around on the computer. I got both the kids sleeping this afternoon at the same time- which was the perfect opportunity to shower. Instead I made the mistake of checking my email and got sucked into cyberspace for 2 hours, with nothing to show for it. Huge waste of time.
One moment I wish I could redo: I wish I hadn't attacked Tommy for leaving Jack's diaper on the floor after giving him a bath. I have a habit of letting my mouth speak before weighing the consequences of what it is saying. The problem is, I know that this is a habit and I am not doing anything to stop it- which causes issues that could easily be avoided.
Best life tip of the day: a sprinkle of garlic salt on a grilled cheese sandwich makes a world of difference.
Biggest laugh of the day: I think was Mallie's! She was laughing harder than I have seen her in a long time while I was tickling her tummy with my nose. Unfortunately, when I do this, along with laughing hysterically, she also grabs as much of my hair as her little fists can hold and hangs on for dear life. Ouch! But it's worth it to hear that little laugh!
Best Tommy moment: Tommy picked up his new glasses today after work. He'll wear them for distances (driving, watching TV, etc.) But he is self-concious about them. He looks really cute in them though!!!
Best Jack moment: Jack was shooting his basketball tonight and threw it to Tommy for him to shoot it. Tommy missed the shot, but Jack still got so excited and threw his arms up in the air and began to yell "Yea!", but he did this all so quickly that his feet came out from under him. He slammed himself on the ground with such force from standing position- he was there one minute and gone the next. Tommy and I both shot up and said 'Are you OK!?' to which he replied, laughing, "Yeah, that funny Mommy! I hit the floor".
Best Mallie moment: Mallie FINALLY started eating her baby food with no effort and actually opening her mouth for a spoonful (instead of my prying it open with the spoon!) It was so shocking to me- as we've been trying to get her to do this for 3 months now! She ate 2 bowl fulls of oatmeal and pears throughout the day. I'm hoping this gets her into a little more of a rigid schedule with her eating and sleeping- now that she's almost 7 months old!!!
Monday, February 18, 2008
Monday, February 18th, 2008
Most grateful moment of the day: I have a few actually today. I got to spend the morning driving around, drinking coffee, shopping and laughing with my sister and the kids for a couple of hours this morning- which is always fun. We were even kind of productive in our outing, which was an added (but unnecessary) bonus! Then I got to go shopping, all by myself with my grandma and my aunt Di. I felt like I was 7 years old, going on one of our famous special trips. It was great to get them alone and browse around the mall. That, too, turned out to be a very successful shopping trip for my grandma! Then, I got to hang out with Timmy, Jimmy and Tom and Mary Gilbride tonight. They all came over, some for dinner and some after to hang out and see the kids. It was a really relaxing and fun day.
One thing I learned today: That there are excellent baby-sitters out there still!!! Jack's 'friend' Sarah, who he met at his playschool this winter is a senior at Rocky River. She and Jack really clicked and she came over to stay with the kids while I went out this afternoon. Jack woke up from his nap after I got home, yelling for Sarah and was very disappointed to find me waiting for him. Everything went very smoothly while I was gone. And 5 minutes after she left, she called to tell me that she had changed Mallie's outfit because she had gone through her diaper and washed out her clothes and hung them up to dry! This is more than I would have done!!!! SHe's great!
One moment I wish I could redo: I wish I hadn't tried to correct how Tommy was disciplining Jack tonight at dinner, in front of Jack! Jack definately picked up on it and after I said, "No Tommy.....'- Jack repeated me and shook his finger at his dad and said 'No Tommy!' Opppppps.
Best life tip of the day: As much as it pains me to endorse a large retail chain over a smaller craft store- it is worth it to go to JoAnn Fabrics for your crafting needs over Pat Catan's! Especially when lugging 2 kids with you.
Biggest laugh of the day: (One was definately the moment I wish I could redo, above). But while we shopped at Pat Catan's, Jack heard one of the customer service phones on the counter. He started yelling at the top of his lungs, "THE PHONE'S RIIIIINING!!!! YOUR PHONE'S RIIIINGING!!!!'. It was so embarassing, but also hilarious.
Best Tommy moment: I feel like I have not seen or heard much of Tommy today, so I'm not sure. It's cold out tonight, so it'll be nice that I can snuggle him tonight to keep warm....unless I pass out before he comes to bed- which will definatley happen.....so I'm not sure!?
Best Jack moment: Mallie was sleeping on me while the Gilbride's were here tonight and Jack came over and did a quick version of 'Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep' followed by a quick "Twinkle, twinkle, little star' for her, and gave her a kiss, which is his nighttime routine.
Also, after 'grabbing himself' several times in front of everyone tonight, Tommy mentioned that he might need a new diaper. So I picked him up to carry him in the other room to investigate this matter further, in an more inconspicuous venue. However, as I walked across the room, he started asking me loudly, 'Mommy, I have poo?'- which really just defeated the whole purpose. Tommy's dad thought that was pretty funny.
Best Mallie moment: When I got back from shopping for a few hours this afternoon, she was sleeping. When she woke up she was especially happy to see me and I felt like I hadn't seen her in a few days! So we had fun playing together this afternoon. I truly do not know how I'm going to leave her (either of them really!) for 6 days. I'm going to be so sick to see her!
One thing I learned today: That there are excellent baby-sitters out there still!!! Jack's 'friend' Sarah, who he met at his playschool this winter is a senior at Rocky River. She and Jack really clicked and she came over to stay with the kids while I went out this afternoon. Jack woke up from his nap after I got home, yelling for Sarah and was very disappointed to find me waiting for him. Everything went very smoothly while I was gone. And 5 minutes after she left, she called to tell me that she had changed Mallie's outfit because she had gone through her diaper and washed out her clothes and hung them up to dry! This is more than I would have done!!!! SHe's great!
One moment I wish I could redo: I wish I hadn't tried to correct how Tommy was disciplining Jack tonight at dinner, in front of Jack! Jack definately picked up on it and after I said, "No Tommy.....'- Jack repeated me and shook his finger at his dad and said 'No Tommy!' Opppppps.
Best life tip of the day: As much as it pains me to endorse a large retail chain over a smaller craft store- it is worth it to go to JoAnn Fabrics for your crafting needs over Pat Catan's! Especially when lugging 2 kids with you.
Biggest laugh of the day: (One was definately the moment I wish I could redo, above). But while we shopped at Pat Catan's, Jack heard one of the customer service phones on the counter. He started yelling at the top of his lungs, "THE PHONE'S RIIIIINING!!!! YOUR PHONE'S RIIIINGING!!!!'. It was so embarassing, but also hilarious.
Best Tommy moment: I feel like I have not seen or heard much of Tommy today, so I'm not sure. It's cold out tonight, so it'll be nice that I can snuggle him tonight to keep warm....unless I pass out before he comes to bed- which will definatley happen.....so I'm not sure!?
Best Jack moment: Mallie was sleeping on me while the Gilbride's were here tonight and Jack came over and did a quick version of 'Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep' followed by a quick "Twinkle, twinkle, little star' for her, and gave her a kiss, which is his nighttime routine.
Also, after 'grabbing himself' several times in front of everyone tonight, Tommy mentioned that he might need a new diaper. So I picked him up to carry him in the other room to investigate this matter further, in an more inconspicuous venue. However, as I walked across the room, he started asking me loudly, 'Mommy, I have poo?'- which really just defeated the whole purpose. Tommy's dad thought that was pretty funny.
Best Mallie moment: When I got back from shopping for a few hours this afternoon, she was sleeping. When she woke up she was especially happy to see me and I felt like I hadn't seen her in a few days! So we had fun playing together this afternoon. I truly do not know how I'm going to leave her (either of them really!) for 6 days. I'm going to be so sick to see her!
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Sunday, February 17th, 2008
Most grateful moment of the day: Going to church. I was in a really bad mood this morning and almost blew it off. I took Mallie and we sat with Dede. It is always a treat to see how happy Dede is to see Mallie (and me, I guess.....or am I just kidding myself.... yes, I am.....) And I ended up needing the time to sit and think about what I'm doing wrong in different situations and how I can change to make life easier. And how fortunate I am in the grand scheme of things....and even in the not-so-grand scheme of things. I'm lucky and take things for granted and it was good to sit there and think about that.
One thing I learned today: That the presidential election of 2008 is exciting people everywhere. I think it is going to really bring people together, more than it will separate people. We are looking candidates who are intelligent and practical (for the most part) and I think this country is excited to pull out of the cloud it's been under for 8 years. It's exciting.
One moment I wish I could redo: Getting into 'it' AGAIN with Tommy this morning. After our rough day yesterday, I have no idea why I would engage in conversation over the same topic when our tempers were still short.
Best life tip of the day: Do not make risotto unless you have an full day to commit to it. I thought it was an easy dish to prepare. After an hour of coddling it, speaking sweetly to it, caressing its ego and whispering sweet nothings into its ear, it was finished....and not all that impressive in the taste department. Won't be doing that again anytime soon.
Biggest laugh of the day: At breakfast at my parent's house: Emily was talking about almost going to the Monster Truck Rally last night at the Q. She said to fit in down there would have involved a trip to Unique's for a Harley Davidson Shirt and acid wash jeans, along with blacking out a couple of teeth.... and then renting some children to 'mishandle'. I've been laughing about this one all day.
Best Tommy moment: I came in from breakfast from my mom and dad's with Mallie to find Tommy washing the dishes. He had also done several loads of laundry, cleaned under the couch and paid the bills. He then helped me organize the attic by moving the bins that I have been waiting and waiting to move up there. I picked up the upstairs, cleaned the bathroom and went grocery shopping- thus creating an organized and CLEAN household for the first time in months. It's amazing what a little team work can do. He intiated it though and it paid off.
Best Jack moment: Jack has been a pistol today. He's torn through laundry baskets, turned off the computer, thrown the remote multiple times, hit Mallie, smacked Tommy's computer, and just generally defied us at every turn. After he hit Tommy for some reason this evening, I looked at him and said "What did you just do?".... and he matter of factly, turned to me and answered "I hit Daddy"- as though he was thinking, "I mean....you were sitting right there watching me.....why are you asking?" I had to keep a straight face while I scolded him, while Tommy hid behind a Clifford book shaking with laughter.
Best Mallie moment: I got to spend a lot of one-on-one time with Mallie today (all weekend, really!). Today, after church I took her to my parents' for breakfast with Claire and Drew and Emily. (Tommy stayed home with Jack because he has pink eye and an ear infection). Mallie was wearing her cool jean skirt and striped tights with her new rain boots. I stood her up on the tray of the high chair and she just started looking around and smiling. Everyone was looking at her and laughing and talking to her at once. And I don't think she could believe that she was getting all of this undivided attention. SHe is not used to it, but she definately warmed up to it quickly! She is very, very rarely the only kid around- and is always upstaged by her loud brother. But today it was the 'Bird Show' and she was digging it.
check it out: http://emily-alice.blogspot.com/
One thing I learned today: That the presidential election of 2008 is exciting people everywhere. I think it is going to really bring people together, more than it will separate people. We are looking candidates who are intelligent and practical (for the most part) and I think this country is excited to pull out of the cloud it's been under for 8 years. It's exciting.
One moment I wish I could redo: Getting into 'it' AGAIN with Tommy this morning. After our rough day yesterday, I have no idea why I would engage in conversation over the same topic when our tempers were still short.
Best life tip of the day: Do not make risotto unless you have an full day to commit to it. I thought it was an easy dish to prepare. After an hour of coddling it, speaking sweetly to it, caressing its ego and whispering sweet nothings into its ear, it was finished....and not all that impressive in the taste department. Won't be doing that again anytime soon.
Biggest laugh of the day: At breakfast at my parent's house: Emily was talking about almost going to the Monster Truck Rally last night at the Q. She said to fit in down there would have involved a trip to Unique's for a Harley Davidson Shirt and acid wash jeans, along with blacking out a couple of teeth.... and then renting some children to 'mishandle'. I've been laughing about this one all day.
Best Tommy moment: I came in from breakfast from my mom and dad's with Mallie to find Tommy washing the dishes. He had also done several loads of laundry, cleaned under the couch and paid the bills. He then helped me organize the attic by moving the bins that I have been waiting and waiting to move up there. I picked up the upstairs, cleaned the bathroom and went grocery shopping- thus creating an organized and CLEAN household for the first time in months. It's amazing what a little team work can do. He intiated it though and it paid off.
Best Jack moment: Jack has been a pistol today. He's torn through laundry baskets, turned off the computer, thrown the remote multiple times, hit Mallie, smacked Tommy's computer, and just generally defied us at every turn. After he hit Tommy for some reason this evening, I looked at him and said "What did you just do?".... and he matter of factly, turned to me and answered "I hit Daddy"- as though he was thinking, "I mean....you were sitting right there watching me.....why are you asking?" I had to keep a straight face while I scolded him, while Tommy hid behind a Clifford book shaking with laughter.
Best Mallie moment: I got to spend a lot of one-on-one time with Mallie today (all weekend, really!). Today, after church I took her to my parents' for breakfast with Claire and Drew and Emily. (Tommy stayed home with Jack because he has pink eye and an ear infection). Mallie was wearing her cool jean skirt and striped tights with her new rain boots. I stood her up on the tray of the high chair and she just started looking around and smiling. Everyone was looking at her and laughing and talking to her at once. And I don't think she could believe that she was getting all of this undivided attention. SHe is not used to it, but she definately warmed up to it quickly! She is very, very rarely the only kid around- and is always upstaged by her loud brother. But today it was the 'Bird Show' and she was digging it.
check it out: http://emily-alice.blogspot.com/
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Saturday, February 16th, 2008
Most grateful moment of the day: Working out this morning made a huge difference in my overall mood today. I haven't been to the gym in a week and almost passed it up this morning. But instead I went to my spinning class and felt like a million bucks afterward.
One thing I learned today: To trust your instincts. Jack had been complaining about his ears last night. He woke up an hour after going to bed squealing, the same way as he had when he had his other ear infection. When he woke up this morning, he didn't say anything about them. Tommy told me that I was 'overreacting'. But I had a gut feeling that something was wrong. I took him in to the doctor and, sure enough, both of his ears were infected.
One moment I wish I could redo: Saying mean things to Tommy in front of the kids. I would have said the mean things....just not for them to hear. It's not good for them.
Best life tip of the day: Don't have your child's birthday party at Chuck E Cheese.
Biggest laugh of the day: In the dressing room at Old Navy with my sister.... making comments about her bra. For some reason, this was very funny to me.
Best Tommy moment: When he left the house.
Best Jack moment: At the doctor's office, Jack was asking all the nurses 'Where's Dr. Skoch?' and being very chatty with everyone. They all got a huge kick out of him. Also, on my way home from shopping, I talked to Jack and asked him how the birthday party he went to was. He told me all about the cake and pizza. His little voice is so sweet on the phone.
Best Mallie moment: Mallie slept through our entire shopping trip today. She was very accomodating. Also, when Claire got here to pick us up, she was very chatting, doing her low growling that turns into and all-out shout. She's very sassy and funny.
One thing I learned today: To trust your instincts. Jack had been complaining about his ears last night. He woke up an hour after going to bed squealing, the same way as he had when he had his other ear infection. When he woke up this morning, he didn't say anything about them. Tommy told me that I was 'overreacting'. But I had a gut feeling that something was wrong. I took him in to the doctor and, sure enough, both of his ears were infected.
One moment I wish I could redo: Saying mean things to Tommy in front of the kids. I would have said the mean things....just not for them to hear. It's not good for them.
Best life tip of the day: Don't have your child's birthday party at Chuck E Cheese.
Biggest laugh of the day: In the dressing room at Old Navy with my sister.... making comments about her bra. For some reason, this was very funny to me.
Best Tommy moment: When he left the house.
Best Jack moment: At the doctor's office, Jack was asking all the nurses 'Where's Dr. Skoch?' and being very chatty with everyone. They all got a huge kick out of him. Also, on my way home from shopping, I talked to Jack and asked him how the birthday party he went to was. He told me all about the cake and pizza. His little voice is so sweet on the phone.
Best Mallie moment: Mallie slept through our entire shopping trip today. She was very accomodating. Also, when Claire got here to pick us up, she was very chatting, doing her low growling that turns into and all-out shout. She's very sassy and funny.
Friday, February 15, 2008
Friday, February 15th, 2008
Lots of time to think today, which is good and bad- as you'll see from the following thoughts:
Thinking about how obsessed I am with death and what would happen if someone close to me died. It's obviously a horrible thought and shows how neurotic I am....but thinking about how I think about it tells even more about me.... like, if I'm spending this much time thinking about this, what am I missing out on thinking about (I honestly can't even imagine)...... and how are these thoughts of death affecting me in unknown ways (i.e. being controlling, impulsive, a loud mouth, attention-getting, etc.) Also, sitting upstairs in Jack's room tonight with Mallie and Tommy, thinking about what would happen if my sister died... and then realizing that Mallie, or Jack or Tommy could die too. Oh crap! That had never occurred to me before. I mean, what the HELL!!!???? There is definately something wrong with me. Spending a quiet Friday night at home with my family and thinking about how I'll be acting at the funeral...... whoa.....way more screwed up than I thought. ewwww. I'm grossing myself out.
Then I switched gears to thinking about how I hadn't showered all day....this is most days now. I either shower at night or every other day. It is so funny how routinely I bathed in my school years. I HAD to shower every morning or I felt like some sort of cave person. But now, I make do with 5-6 showers a week (even when I work out!) And to be honest, I do not look much different than when I was showering all the time. Except I've gained more weight. So maybe the showers wash off pounds. But, really, it's just too time-consuming and too much effort to think about it let alone go through with it. So, I usually don't.
Most grateful moment: Tommy agreed to meet us for lunch this morning. This was a big deal because Mallie has had pink eye and an ear infection all week, so we've been stuck inside. I wasn't ready to go to a kid-oriented outing, since I'm not sure how she's feeling and Jack could be contagious with some unsurfaced bug.... so meeting Tommy was the perfect thing. We had a nice lunch out!
One thing I learned: That there are still people in America that cannot think about voting for either a black, nor a woman for president. What the hell is wrong with people? It truly amazes me that people think that, let alone say it out loud.
One moment I wish I could redo: This morning I was trying to chisel time out to play with Jack. We were trying to make a mailbox for him and he was really excited. But I got caught up changing Mallie, having to take him to the potty and then feeding her. It just always feels like there are 100000000 things standing in the way of spending the time I want to with him. Some are unimportant, but in this case I had to get them. We ended up playing later, but it was really frustrating for me.
Best life tip: Keep in touch withthe people you love- at almost any cost. The extra time I've had these days to ist around and think always lead me back to relationships that I am sick about losing. Some of these are Fina, Kym, Pat, and Jay. Some are through my own fault, some are through both mine and theirs. But regardless, it's always hurtful to think about how different my life would be, how much fuller and grateful (not that it already is not!!!) with them here. It'll be something I'll always regret.
Biggest laugh of the day: The biggest laugh of the day was actually Jack's. We were playing football in the basement. He has taken to making me wear these ridiculous goggles while we play. We started a pattern of me throwing the ball to him across the room. He'd catch it (or pick it up) and run toward me until he got really close and then whip it at my face. I would act scared and make a Jerry Lewis "eeeeeeewwwww' sound. The more this happened, the harder he would laugh. To the point where he could not run in a straight line toward me or mouscle up the strength to throw the ball. It was infectious....and I must look hilarious wearing those stupid goggles.
Best Tommy moment: Mallie had a fussy evening tonight and was giving TOmmy an especially hard time every time he had her. Sometimes he has a tendency to rush to calm her then put her down in a swing or on the floor instead of just holding her for a while and I think she senses that. I took her from him after dinner and calmed her down and then just held her for a while and she fell asleep on me. Afterwards, I was doing the dishes and he came up and hugged me and told me that I really had a way with the bird.... It was really nice to be recognized and appreciated.
Best Jack moment: There has been a basket full of laundry travelling around our house for 3 days now, waiting patiently to be folded and put away. This afternoon, while my dad was here, I finally got a chance to fold it and brought it upstiars to be put away later. After dinner Tommy took Jack to play in his room while I did the dishes and he ended up falling asleep on Jack's floor while he was playing (you can see where this is going). WHen the dishes were done, I went upstairs to see my laundry scattered around the upstairs landing and hallway. I got so annoyed, saying "This is obnoxious. You're up here sleeping while he's tearing apart my laundry that took me 3 days to fold." As I turned to walk back downstairs I added "I mean, it's all over the freakin'..........' And as a trailed off, I heard Jack finish my sentence: "Fyoor!!!" he said in the same tone and volume. Tommy and I just burst out laughing.
Best Mallie moment: Mallie is in to giving bear hugs. I can't tell if it's when she's happy or sleepy.... but there are times that I am holding her in one arm, upright and she just folds up and hugs my shoulder so tight, pulling her little knees up as high as she can and nuzzling into my neck. It's such a cozy feeling and sometimes she'll start growling into my neck. Other times she just breathes really heavy in and out from her little nose. It's my favorite!!!
Thinking about how obsessed I am with death and what would happen if someone close to me died. It's obviously a horrible thought and shows how neurotic I am....but thinking about how I think about it tells even more about me.... like, if I'm spending this much time thinking about this, what am I missing out on thinking about (I honestly can't even imagine)...... and how are these thoughts of death affecting me in unknown ways (i.e. being controlling, impulsive, a loud mouth, attention-getting, etc.) Also, sitting upstairs in Jack's room tonight with Mallie and Tommy, thinking about what would happen if my sister died... and then realizing that Mallie, or Jack or Tommy could die too. Oh crap! That had never occurred to me before. I mean, what the HELL!!!???? There is definately something wrong with me. Spending a quiet Friday night at home with my family and thinking about how I'll be acting at the funeral...... whoa.....way more screwed up than I thought. ewwww. I'm grossing myself out.
Then I switched gears to thinking about how I hadn't showered all day....this is most days now. I either shower at night or every other day. It is so funny how routinely I bathed in my school years. I HAD to shower every morning or I felt like some sort of cave person. But now, I make do with 5-6 showers a week (even when I work out!) And to be honest, I do not look much different than when I was showering all the time. Except I've gained more weight. So maybe the showers wash off pounds. But, really, it's just too time-consuming and too much effort to think about it let alone go through with it. So, I usually don't.
Most grateful moment: Tommy agreed to meet us for lunch this morning. This was a big deal because Mallie has had pink eye and an ear infection all week, so we've been stuck inside. I wasn't ready to go to a kid-oriented outing, since I'm not sure how she's feeling and Jack could be contagious with some unsurfaced bug.... so meeting Tommy was the perfect thing. We had a nice lunch out!
One thing I learned: That there are still people in America that cannot think about voting for either a black, nor a woman for president. What the hell is wrong with people? It truly amazes me that people think that, let alone say it out loud.
One moment I wish I could redo: This morning I was trying to chisel time out to play with Jack. We were trying to make a mailbox for him and he was really excited. But I got caught up changing Mallie, having to take him to the potty and then feeding her. It just always feels like there are 100000000 things standing in the way of spending the time I want to with him. Some are unimportant, but in this case I had to get them. We ended up playing later, but it was really frustrating for me.
Best life tip: Keep in touch withthe people you love- at almost any cost. The extra time I've had these days to ist around and think always lead me back to relationships that I am sick about losing. Some of these are Fina, Kym, Pat, and Jay. Some are through my own fault, some are through both mine and theirs. But regardless, it's always hurtful to think about how different my life would be, how much fuller and grateful (not that it already is not!!!) with them here. It'll be something I'll always regret.
Biggest laugh of the day: The biggest laugh of the day was actually Jack's. We were playing football in the basement. He has taken to making me wear these ridiculous goggles while we play. We started a pattern of me throwing the ball to him across the room. He'd catch it (or pick it up) and run toward me until he got really close and then whip it at my face. I would act scared and make a Jerry Lewis "eeeeeeewwwww' sound. The more this happened, the harder he would laugh. To the point where he could not run in a straight line toward me or mouscle up the strength to throw the ball. It was infectious....and I must look hilarious wearing those stupid goggles.
Best Tommy moment: Mallie had a fussy evening tonight and was giving TOmmy an especially hard time every time he had her. Sometimes he has a tendency to rush to calm her then put her down in a swing or on the floor instead of just holding her for a while and I think she senses that. I took her from him after dinner and calmed her down and then just held her for a while and she fell asleep on me. Afterwards, I was doing the dishes and he came up and hugged me and told me that I really had a way with the bird.... It was really nice to be recognized and appreciated.
Best Jack moment: There has been a basket full of laundry travelling around our house for 3 days now, waiting patiently to be folded and put away. This afternoon, while my dad was here, I finally got a chance to fold it and brought it upstiars to be put away later. After dinner Tommy took Jack to play in his room while I did the dishes and he ended up falling asleep on Jack's floor while he was playing (you can see where this is going). WHen the dishes were done, I went upstairs to see my laundry scattered around the upstairs landing and hallway. I got so annoyed, saying "This is obnoxious. You're up here sleeping while he's tearing apart my laundry that took me 3 days to fold." As I turned to walk back downstairs I added "I mean, it's all over the freakin'..........' And as a trailed off, I heard Jack finish my sentence: "Fyoor!!!" he said in the same tone and volume. Tommy and I just burst out laughing.
Best Mallie moment: Mallie is in to giving bear hugs. I can't tell if it's when she's happy or sleepy.... but there are times that I am holding her in one arm, upright and she just folds up and hugs my shoulder so tight, pulling her little knees up as high as she can and nuzzling into my neck. It's such a cozy feeling and sometimes she'll start growling into my neck. Other times she just breathes really heavy in and out from her little nose. It's my favorite!!!
Thursday, February 14, 2008
February 14th, 2008
Whoa! 3 months without blogging. That is really not good for me. I need this time to unload, make sense, sort out, record. Every day since I stopped blogging 3 months ago, I have thought about it many, many times a day. Something is always happening that I feel I need to write down to remember or get off of my chest. The other thing I realized in that time is how much blogging means for my relationships. It allows me to think of the positive at the end of an overwhelming day and focus on that to feel fresh the next day. It also allows Tommy to read it and feel a little bit more appreciated than he otherwise would. Writing it at the end of the day is easier than taking the time out to say it all the time....and seeing it in writing makes it feel more important, too. I'm back and serious about blogging again. So much has happened in the last 3 months that I know is lost forever!!!!
Most grateful moment (of the last 3 months): Jack has learned to say 'I love you'. It's the best to hear it out of his little mouth. It's worth all the pain, annoyance, frustration when his little voice says 'I yuv you Mommy'..... melts my heart.
One thing I learned (in the last 3 months): ALWAYS have a plan of where you will be, with whom and when for the holidays and stick to it. Last minute changes cause unbalance in the very intricate schedule that juggles eact numbers of seconds that we spend with each family. Above this rule I have also learned to: SIMPLIFY the holidays. Next Christmas will include a lot of family time at our own house...alone....with the kids. The carting, packing, unloading, etc. is stressful and the fighting that stems from it completely cancels out the true meaning of what the holidays should be.
One moment I wish I could redo (in the last 3 months): Anytime I lose my temper and yell at Jack. I hate the way I feel after raising my voice to him- even if he doesn't seem to care (which he really does not). I need to remember that I need to be the one in control and yelling demonstrates how close I am to losing it.
Best life tip: Keep yourself busy in the winter. Last winter was awful. I was sick being pregnant and we stayed in all the time. The time dragged and I ended up feeling depressed and unproductive. This winter, we are in 2 playgroups, we go to the new rec center 3 times a week, we have story time, Tommy has 2 basketball games a week, etc. We always have something on the calendar and it makes time fly!
Biggest laugh (of the last 3 months): We were sitting on the couch a few weeks ago and Jack burped. He looked at us and said "I burp!", to which we replied, "Well, what do you say?". He answered "EXCUSE ME EVeeBODeeee!" This may not seem terribly funny now. But Tommy and I both burst out laughing and Jack followed. Now he says this everytime he burps, just to get a laugh, even if no one gets it.
Best Tommy moment (of the last 3 months): Has been just watching Tommy and I grow so attached to Mallie. I'll notice both of us just staring at her and smiling while she's playing on the floor. She's so cute and funny. We've always loved her...but I always worried I wouldn't feel as strong a bond to her as I do with Jack. It's turning out that's not a problem for Tommy or I!!!
Best Jack moment (of the last 3 months): Jack is really interacting with Mallie. He calls her Birdence and Bird, just like us. And he loves showing her when he goes potty, or makes a basket, or runs fast. She's his little go-to girl when he has something important to say or do. He's very sweet with her and runs in her room when he hears her in the morning. He's a wonderful big brother.
Best Mallie moment (of the last 3 months): Mallie started sitting up right near her 6 months b-day and she's been a new kid. She can really look around and reach for toys now. She's so content and interested in her surroundings. She loves sitting in the middle of the living room floor while Jack runs around like a mad person playing basketball. She feels like she's in the action and she's always yelling at him as she's gumming whatever toy she has in her grasp "AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!" It's so cute.
Most grateful moment (of the last 3 months): Jack has learned to say 'I love you'. It's the best to hear it out of his little mouth. It's worth all the pain, annoyance, frustration when his little voice says 'I yuv you Mommy'..... melts my heart.
One thing I learned (in the last 3 months): ALWAYS have a plan of where you will be, with whom and when for the holidays and stick to it. Last minute changes cause unbalance in the very intricate schedule that juggles eact numbers of seconds that we spend with each family. Above this rule I have also learned to: SIMPLIFY the holidays. Next Christmas will include a lot of family time at our own house...alone....with the kids. The carting, packing, unloading, etc. is stressful and the fighting that stems from it completely cancels out the true meaning of what the holidays should be.
One moment I wish I could redo (in the last 3 months): Anytime I lose my temper and yell at Jack. I hate the way I feel after raising my voice to him- even if he doesn't seem to care (which he really does not). I need to remember that I need to be the one in control and yelling demonstrates how close I am to losing it.
Best life tip: Keep yourself busy in the winter. Last winter was awful. I was sick being pregnant and we stayed in all the time. The time dragged and I ended up feeling depressed and unproductive. This winter, we are in 2 playgroups, we go to the new rec center 3 times a week, we have story time, Tommy has 2 basketball games a week, etc. We always have something on the calendar and it makes time fly!
Biggest laugh (of the last 3 months): We were sitting on the couch a few weeks ago and Jack burped. He looked at us and said "I burp!", to which we replied, "Well, what do you say?". He answered "EXCUSE ME EVeeBODeeee!" This may not seem terribly funny now. But Tommy and I both burst out laughing and Jack followed. Now he says this everytime he burps, just to get a laugh, even if no one gets it.
Best Tommy moment (of the last 3 months): Has been just watching Tommy and I grow so attached to Mallie. I'll notice both of us just staring at her and smiling while she's playing on the floor. She's so cute and funny. We've always loved her...but I always worried I wouldn't feel as strong a bond to her as I do with Jack. It's turning out that's not a problem for Tommy or I!!!
Best Jack moment (of the last 3 months): Jack is really interacting with Mallie. He calls her Birdence and Bird, just like us. And he loves showing her when he goes potty, or makes a basket, or runs fast. She's his little go-to girl when he has something important to say or do. He's very sweet with her and runs in her room when he hears her in the morning. He's a wonderful big brother.
Best Mallie moment (of the last 3 months): Mallie started sitting up right near her 6 months b-day and she's been a new kid. She can really look around and reach for toys now. She's so content and interested in her surroundings. She loves sitting in the middle of the living room floor while Jack runs around like a mad person playing basketball. She feels like she's in the action and she's always yelling at him as she's gumming whatever toy she has in her grasp "AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!" It's so cute.
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