A lot has happened since the last post. 3 weeks ago we found out that we are expecting another baby at the end of October/ beginning of November. I feel like things have been a bit of a whirlwind since then. The house is falling apart because I'm not feeling up to cleaning during the day. We just had Easter weekend, which like all holidays around here involves preparation and lots of running around. It's been crazy!
Most grateful moment: When Tommy got home. It was a long day of being tired and not feeling great. It was a huge relief to see him walk in the door!
One thing I learned today: There is a new book called The Ten Year Nap out that I am dying to read. It is about 4 different women who are stay-at-home moms. When I heard the name of this book, I laughed out loud and almost started crying at the same time. It's such a perfect explanation of how I feel about this stage in my life. I feel like I am hibernating from the real world- hiding from the stresses and rigors of a business life or of being a teacher. To me, this is the plus side of it....But I also feel as though my brain is taking a nap and I am not as sharp as I was. It takes energy to keep your mind stimulated and learning and connecting and bright. Frankly, I don't have that energy right now. I feel like I pour it all into thinking about my kids' well-being and happiness and it leaves little time for my own intellect! In no way am I unhappy about where I am right now. But sometimes I worry that letting my brain take a 10 year nap is not good for it!
One moment I wish I could re-do: Eating jelly beans for breakfast. It set me out to a sluggish, nauseous day after a night of no sleep.
Best life tip: Reason with your toddler...don't demand. Tommy just went in to Jack's room for the 4th time in the last 15 minutes to quiet him down. Instead of just telling him to go to bed, he said "Listen, Mallie's not feeling well. I need you to be quiet so that she can get some rest and feel better". Jack said, "OK" and we haven't heard another peep out of him!
Biggest laugh of the day: At about 5:30 tonight, I finally went up to take a shower. When I came down I caught Jack off guard with my wet hair and different clothes. He ran up to me to hug me, but stopped short and stood in front of me awkwardly, trying to figure out what to say. He started laughing his fake, forced laugh and said, 'Mommy, this shirt is funny", pointing at my sweatshirt. So I said 'Why is it funny?' and he must have felt bad or something because he gave me a hug and said 'No, Mommy, I love this shirt."
Best Tommy moment: I called Tommy at about 5:15 this afternoon. He was in the driveway and answered the phone anyway. I asked where he was and he said 'I'm in the driveway, did you know there are 2 cats next to the garage?'- as though we were going to battle. He came inside and opened the blinds and stared at the cats for several minutes, until the walked away. He then called me into the kitchen to check and see if the one cat was 'abnormally large'. To end the Day of the Cats, I was in Mallie's room putting her to bed. He poked his head in, with a victorious grin on his face and said, "Do you hear that? Something is getting that cat!" and with a fist pump he left the room. I'm not sure what the cats ever did to him, but he sure doesn't like them!
Best Jack moment: Claire took Jack on a little drive this morning. They stopped at the lake for a while and she looked back at him staring out of the window. She asked him what he was thinking about and he answered, "My mommy. I love her so much".
While I was out getting dinner, Tommy was talking to Jack about Mallie's new tooth that's coming in. (We had been making a big deal out of it earlier that afternoon). Tommy said they were sitting there chatting and Jack asked, "So Dad, will Mallie have teeth tomorrow?"
Best Mallie moment: Mallie's been struggling with a cold and a little bit of a fever all day. She was up all night last night... When Tommy got home tonight, he noticed that her first tooth is poking through! She's almost 8 months old, so we've been waiting for this!!!!
Monday, March 24, 2008
Monday, March 10, 2008
March 10th, 2008
Most grateful moment: Finishing the dishes after dinner and looking at the plateful of cookies I made and realizing I had nothing else to do for the rest of the day but sit on the couch, play with the kids and eat cookies!!!
One thing I learned today: That Garmin was rated an undervalued stock in our Better Investing magazine. Interesting to me because I was under the impression that it was overvalued and worried about the stock we own in it.
One moment I wish I could redo: I wish I had figured out a time to get to the gym. I cannot wait to go tomorrow morning after almost 2 weeks away! UGGGG!
Best life tip: Listen to your kids. I've been trying to give Jack time to explain himself and express what he's trying to say lately and some wicked things are coming out of his mouth. Very funny and very interesting. He just needs time to get them out sometimes!!
Biggest laugh of the day: I've had many laughs today....most of them at the expense or due to Jack. I guess the biggest one would have been when he was standing on the scale this morning. He started screaching and complaining and I asked him what was wrong and he said 'I want it to go up here (pointing to the MUCH bigger number that appears when I stand on the scale) like you!" This was both the biggest laugh and biggest insult.
Best Tommy moment: Watching him shovel the snow in the driveway tonight when he got home from work. He looked very cute in his work clothes and glasses shoveling away.
Best Jack moment: There were a few. This morning he ran into the kitchen telling me that he had found 'A ANT!!!' I didn't really believe him, since it's mid-March and 2 feet of snow outside. But I followed him and he pointed out a spider. It was cute how his mind works and how he's relating concepts.
Tonight Jack went up to Mallie and gave her a big hug and told Tommy, "I love my sister'. For some reason, I decided to tell him that he is Mallie's brother and he's my son. He must have thought I was being funny and meant 'sun' so he continued the joke and started going around to all of us and calling us the names of innanimate objects. He said, "Mommy, you a basketball." "Daddy you a motorcycle", etc. It made us laugh.
Jack is also rereading, from memory, his favorite story. He says, "Scooby dooby moooo. Fa La la la baaaaa, whacka whacka quaaaack- the duck snored'.
Also, Jack has been 'helping' Mallie play basketball. He puts the ball in her lap for a split second, then takes it and shoots it 'for her'. If he makes it he celebrates for her and tells her, 'Mallie you make it!!!' If he misses, he turns to her to let her know 'Mallie, you miss it.'
Finally, in a potty training moment this afternoon, Jack was nowhere to be found. Tommy went upstairs and found him behind the shower curtain, reading his 'Little Grover Has to Go' potty book....and going in his diaper. This is considered a step in the right direction (that he was at least in the bathroom) when he went to the bathroom!!!
Jack sings the song 'Camptown Races' like this: 'Camptown Races sing this song: BOO-YA, BOO-YA. Camptown Races 5 miles long, Oh Boo-Ya Day'
Best Mallie moment: I probably have said this before....but Mallie is getting SASSY!!! She is a very pleasant little thing all day and happy, for the most part. But a whole different side of her comes out when Tommy gets home. He is rough with her and she LOVES it. He'll hold her hands and make her arms go up and down and dance and she thinks its the funniest thing. He tosses her around his lap, upside down and sideways, and she laughs. And he holds her above his head and screaches at her and she screaches back and smiles from ear to ear. She shouts at Jack and tries to get his attention or scolds him when he takes a toy from her. She is getting close to crawling and is going to be a force to be reckoned with when she does!
One thing I learned today: That Garmin was rated an undervalued stock in our Better Investing magazine. Interesting to me because I was under the impression that it was overvalued and worried about the stock we own in it.
One moment I wish I could redo: I wish I had figured out a time to get to the gym. I cannot wait to go tomorrow morning after almost 2 weeks away! UGGGG!
Best life tip: Listen to your kids. I've been trying to give Jack time to explain himself and express what he's trying to say lately and some wicked things are coming out of his mouth. Very funny and very interesting. He just needs time to get them out sometimes!!
Biggest laugh of the day: I've had many laughs today....most of them at the expense or due to Jack. I guess the biggest one would have been when he was standing on the scale this morning. He started screaching and complaining and I asked him what was wrong and he said 'I want it to go up here (pointing to the MUCH bigger number that appears when I stand on the scale) like you!" This was both the biggest laugh and biggest insult.
Best Tommy moment: Watching him shovel the snow in the driveway tonight when he got home from work. He looked very cute in his work clothes and glasses shoveling away.
Best Jack moment: There were a few. This morning he ran into the kitchen telling me that he had found 'A ANT!!!' I didn't really believe him, since it's mid-March and 2 feet of snow outside. But I followed him and he pointed out a spider. It was cute how his mind works and how he's relating concepts.
Tonight Jack went up to Mallie and gave her a big hug and told Tommy, "I love my sister'. For some reason, I decided to tell him that he is Mallie's brother and he's my son. He must have thought I was being funny and meant 'sun' so he continued the joke and started going around to all of us and calling us the names of innanimate objects. He said, "Mommy, you a basketball." "Daddy you a motorcycle", etc. It made us laugh.
Jack is also rereading, from memory, his favorite story. He says, "Scooby dooby moooo. Fa La la la baaaaa, whacka whacka quaaaack- the duck snored'.
Also, Jack has been 'helping' Mallie play basketball. He puts the ball in her lap for a split second, then takes it and shoots it 'for her'. If he makes it he celebrates for her and tells her, 'Mallie you make it!!!' If he misses, he turns to her to let her know 'Mallie, you miss it.'
Finally, in a potty training moment this afternoon, Jack was nowhere to be found. Tommy went upstairs and found him behind the shower curtain, reading his 'Little Grover Has to Go' potty book....and going in his diaper. This is considered a step in the right direction (that he was at least in the bathroom) when he went to the bathroom!!!
Jack sings the song 'Camptown Races' like this: 'Camptown Races sing this song: BOO-YA, BOO-YA. Camptown Races 5 miles long, Oh Boo-Ya Day'
Best Mallie moment: I probably have said this before....but Mallie is getting SASSY!!! She is a very pleasant little thing all day and happy, for the most part. But a whole different side of her comes out when Tommy gets home. He is rough with her and she LOVES it. He'll hold her hands and make her arms go up and down and dance and she thinks its the funniest thing. He tosses her around his lap, upside down and sideways, and she laughs. And he holds her above his head and screaches at her and she screaches back and smiles from ear to ear. She shouts at Jack and tries to get his attention or scolds him when he takes a toy from her. She is getting close to crawling and is going to be a force to be reckoned with when she does!
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Thursday, February 28th, 2008
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.
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.
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/
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