My husband doesn't read my blog - he says it is his way of giving me full disclosure. He assumes I write about him, and I think that's cute. Don't get me wrong, there are plenty of blog worthy moments that include him, I just don't make it a habit of airing them to the public. While typically I focus my efforts on myself and my toddler, I thought I would humor him today - in honor of his 30th birthday.
30 Reasons why I know you are a keeper.....
1. You are an optimist - something a realist like me desperately needs in her life. You have a way of finding the bright side when I need it most. That gives me hope - not only that things will get better, but that someday your optimism will wear off on me and I too will naturally find the silver lining.
2. Those dimples - I have loved them since the first time I saw you.
3. Your infectious laugh - it is loud and from the belly and so contagious!
4. You eat anything - from raw beef in Mexico to the shit in a pot I make for supper. If it's food, you eat it.
5. You like to drive, in silence - which means that I don't have to feel guilty about sleeping the entire way to our destination.
6. You know how to utilize every square inch of a trailer/uhaul/storage area - which makes packing much more efficient.
7. You are an electrician, plumber, contractor, carpet layer, tile gluer, deck builder, wall knocker outer and more....
8. You make me laugh.
9. I believe you when you tell me that you think I am beautiful.
10. You support me in pretty much every thing I aspire to do - and help guide me to things I didn't have on my list.
11. You have the gift of gab and can talk to anyone about anything.
12. You don't like to hunt.
13. You aren't a sports fanatic, but you'll watch a game or two occasionally.
14. Your compassion and empathy.
15. You tan faster than anyone I have ever known...which has it's benefits in foreign countries.
16. You'll try anything once.
17. You are a horrible liar. Even the small little fibs that are meant for good are extremely difficult for you...
18. You are an excellent winter driver.
19. You make me feel safe, and stay pretty level headed in emergency situations.
20. You rock the drums - which is not only sexy, but has it's benefits in the industry:)
21. You are patient - especially when it comes to explaining things I just don't get in the construction world.
22. You deal with my home décor and paint choices - and generally seem to like them (please refer to 17).
23. You are secure with who you are - and peoples doubts and judgments don't change you.
24. You asked my family if you could marry me.
25. You are handsome.
26. You give amazing massages - and you don't complain about it. Well, to be truthful, you don't complain about much.
27. You know and understand when I need a break.
28. I can trust you with my heart.
29. While you may not understand it, you don't complain about my shoe fetish.
30. Mostly, you are an amazing father to our busy little boy. Family is everything, and I am thankful to have found an amazing person to start one with.
I could ramble all day about the reasons I love you. These are just a few -
I hope you have an amazing birthday:)
Monday, September 9, 2013
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
Tea-bagged
Last Wednesday started out as a challenging one. Someone had woken up on the wrong side of his crib, and it wasn't going to be long until he was back there. We went about our usual routine - diaper change, breakfast, morning run. It was hot, and the sunshine wasn't helping him cheer up much. Upon our return home, the denial of M&M's sent him into a tantrum - that tantrum won him an early nap.
Tate laid down for his nap, giving in easier than I expected - and I sat down with a reheated cup of coffee and the paper. The deafening silence was so welcomed...I was having one of those mom days - what I didn't realize is that the morning wasn't even going to hold a candle to what the afternoon had in store.
I was pleased to find that the nap had served it's purpose. Tate awoke with smiles and conversation - he was in a much better mood and I, thankful for this, was ready to take on the afternoon. Lunch was one of his favorites - macaroni and cheese, although I jazzed it up a little with some ham bits and peas in hopes of adding some much needed nutrition. He devoured a healthy portion and then set off to play with toys while I cleaned up lunch. There is a moment that every parent knows...that moment of silence where there is only one of two possibilities - a full diaper or some type of trouble. As I peeked around the corner, I knew, as usual it was the latter of the two that was about to unfold. In Tate's hands I see two of the gallon size Lipton tea bags - the kind you use to brew sun tea. As I stepped toward him, he gave me that mischievous smile and used all his might to rip them apart. After the tea explosion cleared, my horror began. Tate was looking at me, about ready to explode in panic - I wasn't far behind. Where his eyes were supposed to be, I saw nothing but tea grounds - his nostrils had tea lining the outside and I started to fear that he had inhaled it into his lungs. Common knowledge and having a mother as an EMT has taught me a lot over the years. I knew that it was incredibly important to get the tea out of his eyes, more important that it was done without rubbing, in order to protect them from scratches. Instantly Tate reacted the way you would expect him to, he balled his fists, started the tears, and rubbed. I did the best I could to clean them out using a cold wash rag - I was starting to see the whites of his eyes again, but I knew that they would have to be irrigated. We were the only ones home, and my futile attempts at irrigating left me dialing the number to the doctors office. Luckily for us, they had an opening and if we left now - that meant we could get in. I packed Tate up as fast as I possibly could and flew the 22 miles to New England. Tate was doing alright and that made me think that maybe I had gotten most of it out. Oh how wrong I was.
The next hour and a half of my life was the most horrific I have experienced thus far, and I wouldn't doubt that Tate feels the same way. They had to irrigate both eyes, which meant that I basically had to lay on top of him to hold him down as the saline solution poured over every crevice of his face. He, not understanding what was going on, fought every second of it. After two rounds of irrigation, there was still tea in both eyes - and despite finally getting him calmed down, I was informed we had to do it again. I had held it together until then, until Tate heard the doctor say one more time, and gave me that begging look - the look of helplessness, that I was the only one that could save him. With tears streaming down my face, I apologized and placed him back down on the table. I felt his body go limp. He was so exhausted from the fight, and from basically being water boarded, that he gave in. Tate was still crying, but his body was no longer working against us - and they were able to get the remaining tea out of his eyes.
After all was said and done, he reluctantly took a sucker from the nurse, and huddled into me for protection. I was still his safety, but oh how I felt like I had failed him.
He fell asleep instantaneous to being placed in his car seat. Tate slept peacefully the whole way home, but I couldn't stop the tears. That night, there was no battle over M&M's and I let him have more Scooby Snacks than any toddler should eat in a week - let alone a day. We snuggled with ice cream, and we didn't even attempt the antibiotic eye drops. He is now scared of the bath - the thought of water on his face sends him into sheer panic. But he can see, and the only lasting damage is the fear he carries with him.
I had looked in that cupboard a million times, and had truly believed that every danger to his health was far out of his reach. Let my experience be a lesson, there is a hidden danger in everything. That doesn't mean we have to be helicopter moms, but give those items a second look. Think outside the box, trust me - you won't regret it....
Tate laid down for his nap, giving in easier than I expected - and I sat down with a reheated cup of coffee and the paper. The deafening silence was so welcomed...I was having one of those mom days - what I didn't realize is that the morning wasn't even going to hold a candle to what the afternoon had in store.
I was pleased to find that the nap had served it's purpose. Tate awoke with smiles and conversation - he was in a much better mood and I, thankful for this, was ready to take on the afternoon. Lunch was one of his favorites - macaroni and cheese, although I jazzed it up a little with some ham bits and peas in hopes of adding some much needed nutrition. He devoured a healthy portion and then set off to play with toys while I cleaned up lunch. There is a moment that every parent knows...that moment of silence where there is only one of two possibilities - a full diaper or some type of trouble. As I peeked around the corner, I knew, as usual it was the latter of the two that was about to unfold. In Tate's hands I see two of the gallon size Lipton tea bags - the kind you use to brew sun tea. As I stepped toward him, he gave me that mischievous smile and used all his might to rip them apart. After the tea explosion cleared, my horror began. Tate was looking at me, about ready to explode in panic - I wasn't far behind. Where his eyes were supposed to be, I saw nothing but tea grounds - his nostrils had tea lining the outside and I started to fear that he had inhaled it into his lungs. Common knowledge and having a mother as an EMT has taught me a lot over the years. I knew that it was incredibly important to get the tea out of his eyes, more important that it was done without rubbing, in order to protect them from scratches. Instantly Tate reacted the way you would expect him to, he balled his fists, started the tears, and rubbed. I did the best I could to clean them out using a cold wash rag - I was starting to see the whites of his eyes again, but I knew that they would have to be irrigated. We were the only ones home, and my futile attempts at irrigating left me dialing the number to the doctors office. Luckily for us, they had an opening and if we left now - that meant we could get in. I packed Tate up as fast as I possibly could and flew the 22 miles to New England. Tate was doing alright and that made me think that maybe I had gotten most of it out. Oh how wrong I was.
The next hour and a half of my life was the most horrific I have experienced thus far, and I wouldn't doubt that Tate feels the same way. They had to irrigate both eyes, which meant that I basically had to lay on top of him to hold him down as the saline solution poured over every crevice of his face. He, not understanding what was going on, fought every second of it. After two rounds of irrigation, there was still tea in both eyes - and despite finally getting him calmed down, I was informed we had to do it again. I had held it together until then, until Tate heard the doctor say one more time, and gave me that begging look - the look of helplessness, that I was the only one that could save him. With tears streaming down my face, I apologized and placed him back down on the table. I felt his body go limp. He was so exhausted from the fight, and from basically being water boarded, that he gave in. Tate was still crying, but his body was no longer working against us - and they were able to get the remaining tea out of his eyes.
After all was said and done, he reluctantly took a sucker from the nurse, and huddled into me for protection. I was still his safety, but oh how I felt like I had failed him.
He fell asleep instantaneous to being placed in his car seat. Tate slept peacefully the whole way home, but I couldn't stop the tears. That night, there was no battle over M&M's and I let him have more Scooby Snacks than any toddler should eat in a week - let alone a day. We snuggled with ice cream, and we didn't even attempt the antibiotic eye drops. He is now scared of the bath - the thought of water on his face sends him into sheer panic. But he can see, and the only lasting damage is the fear he carries with him.
I had looked in that cupboard a million times, and had truly believed that every danger to his health was far out of his reach. Let my experience be a lesson, there is a hidden danger in everything. That doesn't mean we have to be helicopter moms, but give those items a second look. Think outside the box, trust me - you won't regret it....
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
Into the Garden...
Last night, as the sweltering heat started to decline, I wandered out to the garden to explore for ready produce. As I meandered into the middle of the garden, I noticed that my plants were moving. Now, when I say moving - I don't mean from the slight breeze helping to wick away the summer sweat. There were little black bugs everywhere, including my legs. Immediately, in horror, I jumped out from the garden, brushed myself off, and ran into the house to consult the book of knowledge - the internet. What I found, was one absolute possibility - flea beetles. In all my life, I have never heard of such a thing. Yet, here they were, right before my eyes - their army had invaded, and I was feeling defeated. Upon reading a little further, I noticed that this is a common problem in many areas, and that there was a solution to be found.
After searching the bathroom, I found ingredient number one. That trusty bottle of rubbing alcohol that serves many purposes you would never think of. I took that to the kitchen and mixed my solution - 2 parts rubbing alcohol, 5 parts water, and 1 teaspoon of liquid dish soap.
I was quick to notice, upon my return to the battleground, that these little buggers were nesting mostly in my radishes and taking over whatever they could jump to from there. I pulled every last radish plant (something that should have been done awhile ago) and disposed of them far away from the garden. From there, it was time to battle. I used all of my solution on as many plants as I could cover. It seemed to be helping - at least the little buggers weren't jumping to attack me any longer.
This morning, I headed out to see my success. To my surprise, there were still some soldiers, but their numbers had been significantly reduced. I mixed up more solution and sprayed again. Here's to hoping for their utter defeat by the end of the day!!
Now, my garden is nothing to write home about. It is the first time planting in this location, which means it was recently tilled prior to planting. I didn't do any of the recommended prep, and most of the seeds were shoved in the dirt between rain showers that soaked our area for most of the planting season. Many of the seeds never sprouted - some were replanted again. That brings me to my cucumbers. Apparently they were just late, because after we replanted new seeds, we quickly noticed that both rounds of planting were peeking up through the tough crust. Even after pulling roughly 50 cucumber plants, the remaining ones have taken over. If every yellow flower turns into a cucumber, we could potentially hold the world record for production in one season. Okay, so maybe it isn't that many - but there are a lot of them. I know that the most logical solution is to can, and thankfully we have had someone offer to help us if we decide to go that route. Someday, I hope to be prepared enough to learn how to do it as I truly miss the staple of my youth - homeade pickles and pickled green beans. This is not going to be that year. Don't get me wrong, I truly love garden fresh cucumbers and could probably eat them every day, however the same recipes get old over time. So, I am looking for suggestions - what do you do with your over abundance of cucumbers? Do you have any to die for recipes that I should try??
After searching the bathroom, I found ingredient number one. That trusty bottle of rubbing alcohol that serves many purposes you would never think of. I took that to the kitchen and mixed my solution - 2 parts rubbing alcohol, 5 parts water, and 1 teaspoon of liquid dish soap.
I was quick to notice, upon my return to the battleground, that these little buggers were nesting mostly in my radishes and taking over whatever they could jump to from there. I pulled every last radish plant (something that should have been done awhile ago) and disposed of them far away from the garden. From there, it was time to battle. I used all of my solution on as many plants as I could cover. It seemed to be helping - at least the little buggers weren't jumping to attack me any longer.
This morning, I headed out to see my success. To my surprise, there were still some soldiers, but their numbers had been significantly reduced. I mixed up more solution and sprayed again. Here's to hoping for their utter defeat by the end of the day!!
Now, my garden is nothing to write home about. It is the first time planting in this location, which means it was recently tilled prior to planting. I didn't do any of the recommended prep, and most of the seeds were shoved in the dirt between rain showers that soaked our area for most of the planting season. Many of the seeds never sprouted - some were replanted again. That brings me to my cucumbers. Apparently they were just late, because after we replanted new seeds, we quickly noticed that both rounds of planting were peeking up through the tough crust. Even after pulling roughly 50 cucumber plants, the remaining ones have taken over. If every yellow flower turns into a cucumber, we could potentially hold the world record for production in one season. Okay, so maybe it isn't that many - but there are a lot of them. I know that the most logical solution is to can, and thankfully we have had someone offer to help us if we decide to go that route. Someday, I hope to be prepared enough to learn how to do it as I truly miss the staple of my youth - homeade pickles and pickled green beans. This is not going to be that year. Don't get me wrong, I truly love garden fresh cucumbers and could probably eat them every day, however the same recipes get old over time. So, I am looking for suggestions - what do you do with your over abundance of cucumbers? Do you have any to die for recipes that I should try??
Monday, August 12, 2013
Ah-Ha
Sometimes you have an ah-ha moment. For me, it often resonates thru my speakers - a song playing on the radio, that is fiercely correlating with my emotions. It seems as if the lyrics reach out to grab me if only to describe how I am feeling when I can't seem to put into words. It is, as if, until that moment I am the only one in the world who is feeling this way, even though reality reminds me that is likely not the case.
During my initial transition to stay at home mom, I was struggling in several aspects. All of a sudden, I wasn't just a guest at the supper table anymore, it was up to me to fill our day with lessons, love, and laughter. I don't think I was quite prepared for what that meant, and some days I still don't think I know. What I did know, was that nothing in my expensive college education left me feeling prepared for the journey I was embarking on. In the beginning, there were some very difficult days for me, as a mom. There were times I shed tears, times I locked myself in the bathroom, and times where I grew extremely frustrated (now who sounds like the toddler?). I remember one particularly challenging day, nothing I did made him happy. In fact, it seemed as if my interaction - of any kind - only made things worse. As my frustration grew, I started to believe that I was a horrible parent and became worried that every day was going to be like this.
When he laid down for a nap, after I recollected myself, I thought I would take a few moments to catch up with the world. I started perusing Facebook, in search of anything that would make me feel better - Then, there it was...someone had shared this miraculous blog post about being the parent of a small child(ren) and I cried as I read it, because it was as if this Steven Wiens guy could read my mind.
This time it wasn't a song blaring over my speakers. Instead, it came from a man whom apparently had once been in my shoes...a man who was brave enough to put these feelings into words for the world to see, and then share them so poor lost souls like me could read them. This one article changed my entire perspective. It made me realize that these moments aren't about perfect, or right, or wrong, they are about doing the best you can with it. There are going to be hard days, and times when I make mistakes - because I am human. In no way does that make me a failure as a parent.
So, if you have or have ever had a small child, I encourage you to read these words, if you haven't already. Maybe it won't have the same profound effect as it did for me, but there is wisdom there that every parent deserves to hear.
To The Parents of Small Children: Let me be the One Who Says it Outloud
During my initial transition to stay at home mom, I was struggling in several aspects. All of a sudden, I wasn't just a guest at the supper table anymore, it was up to me to fill our day with lessons, love, and laughter. I don't think I was quite prepared for what that meant, and some days I still don't think I know. What I did know, was that nothing in my expensive college education left me feeling prepared for the journey I was embarking on. In the beginning, there were some very difficult days for me, as a mom. There were times I shed tears, times I locked myself in the bathroom, and times where I grew extremely frustrated (now who sounds like the toddler?). I remember one particularly challenging day, nothing I did made him happy. In fact, it seemed as if my interaction - of any kind - only made things worse. As my frustration grew, I started to believe that I was a horrible parent and became worried that every day was going to be like this.
When he laid down for a nap, after I recollected myself, I thought I would take a few moments to catch up with the world. I started perusing Facebook, in search of anything that would make me feel better - Then, there it was...someone had shared this miraculous blog post about being the parent of a small child(ren) and I cried as I read it, because it was as if this Steven Wiens guy could read my mind.
This time it wasn't a song blaring over my speakers. Instead, it came from a man whom apparently had once been in my shoes...a man who was brave enough to put these feelings into words for the world to see, and then share them so poor lost souls like me could read them. This one article changed my entire perspective. It made me realize that these moments aren't about perfect, or right, or wrong, they are about doing the best you can with it. There are going to be hard days, and times when I make mistakes - because I am human. In no way does that make me a failure as a parent.
So, if you have or have ever had a small child, I encourage you to read these words, if you haven't already. Maybe it won't have the same profound effect as it did for me, but there is wisdom there that every parent deserves to hear.
To The Parents of Small Children: Let me be the One Who Says it Outloud
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
Tate
I quietly sit beside you, watching as you play
thinking about all the things I should be doing today.
You look up and smile, and unknowingly melt my heart,
and there is nothing in this moment so important I must start.
I help you build a castle, and you giggle as you undo my work
each carefully placed block unravels, your joy makes me smirk.
As the pile grows larger, your frustration starts the same
caught up in your laughter I missed that we changed the game.
Next we are on to counting, as you search for something to read
One Foot, Two Foot and pages flipped with speed.
You find the page your looking for and get that childish grin,
A billion children, chase and tickle then begin the book again.
You start to rub your eyes, growing is a hard chore
Baby Elmo and your blanket, with the light on you quietly snore.
As I switch the light off, I can't help but watch you sleep
I pray that God watches over you, and some innocence you'll keep.
These moments pass so quickly, in a blink they pass us by
you won't be small forever, and the time will surely fly.
So for today you're my priority, and for tomorrow too,
and as you grow please don't forget, how much your mom loves you.
thinking about all the things I should be doing today.
You look up and smile, and unknowingly melt my heart,
and there is nothing in this moment so important I must start.
I help you build a castle, and you giggle as you undo my work
each carefully placed block unravels, your joy makes me smirk.
As the pile grows larger, your frustration starts the same
caught up in your laughter I missed that we changed the game.
Next we are on to counting, as you search for something to read
One Foot, Two Foot and pages flipped with speed.
You find the page your looking for and get that childish grin,
A billion children, chase and tickle then begin the book again.
You start to rub your eyes, growing is a hard chore
Baby Elmo and your blanket, with the light on you quietly snore.
As I switch the light off, I can't help but watch you sleep
I pray that God watches over you, and some innocence you'll keep.
These moments pass so quickly, in a blink they pass us by
you won't be small forever, and the time will surely fly.
So for today you're my priority, and for tomorrow too,
and as you grow please don't forget, how much your mom loves you.
Thursday, July 18, 2013
Shape Shifting
Nineteen months ago I gave birth to an amazing little boy. During the 9 months of pregnancy, I was quickly able to pack on 50 pounds - mostly because eating was the only way I could control my nausea. But, I can't lie - there was something so freeing about eating whatever I wanted. I told myself that no one could judge me because I was growing an itty bitty tiny human - and he should not be denied. So, after the nausea passed, I continued to stuff my face. Now, here I sit, 19 months later and still suffering from those post partum baby pounds.
Let's just get one thing out in the open - getting into shape is almost as painful as the process of having a baby. Somehow, I doubt I am the only woman who feels this way.
I started out small - counting calories and watching my food intake. It took all the fun out of grocery shopping, something I used to really enjoy. Now it is simply a process, and a reminder of all the things I am denying myself. However, having been fairly committed to the process since the beginning of June, I can proudly say I am down 6 pounds. Not bad for 45 days, not quite the number I was hoping for. It is clear to me that denying myself Taco Bell, chips, creamer in my coffee, and as many 'unhealthy' foods as possible is not going to cut it. Recently, I started adding exercise - ouch. I keep telling myself that it will get better, but then I wake up the next day and my aching muscles remind me how far I have yet to go.
Three days ago I started a plank challenge. These people are crazy - actually I take that back, they are utterly insane. Anyone who can actually hold a plank for 5 minutes by day 30 - kudos to you. While I would like to be optimistic, the realist in me is accepting the fact that reaching that goal is not likely in my future. But every little bit counts right? So I continue at a pace that works for me. Unfortunately, I am doubtful it will lead to rock hard abs by the end of summer.
Slowly but surely....slowly but surely. One day at a time. I know I can do it, I know I will do it. Finding my rythym has been the tough part - but I am. Now it is about pushing myself, and remembering that no one will do it for me. There is no easy button for whipping a body back into shape - only motivation, dedication, and consistency. I pray every day for all three!
Let's just get one thing out in the open - getting into shape is almost as painful as the process of having a baby. Somehow, I doubt I am the only woman who feels this way.
I started out small - counting calories and watching my food intake. It took all the fun out of grocery shopping, something I used to really enjoy. Now it is simply a process, and a reminder of all the things I am denying myself. However, having been fairly committed to the process since the beginning of June, I can proudly say I am down 6 pounds. Not bad for 45 days, not quite the number I was hoping for. It is clear to me that denying myself Taco Bell, chips, creamer in my coffee, and as many 'unhealthy' foods as possible is not going to cut it. Recently, I started adding exercise - ouch. I keep telling myself that it will get better, but then I wake up the next day and my aching muscles remind me how far I have yet to go.
Three days ago I started a plank challenge. These people are crazy - actually I take that back, they are utterly insane. Anyone who can actually hold a plank for 5 minutes by day 30 - kudos to you. While I would like to be optimistic, the realist in me is accepting the fact that reaching that goal is not likely in my future. But every little bit counts right? So I continue at a pace that works for me. Unfortunately, I am doubtful it will lead to rock hard abs by the end of summer.
Slowly but surely....slowly but surely. One day at a time. I know I can do it, I know I will do it. Finding my rythym has been the tough part - but I am. Now it is about pushing myself, and remembering that no one will do it for me. There is no easy button for whipping a body back into shape - only motivation, dedication, and consistency. I pray every day for all three!
Sunday, July 14, 2013
Flying with a Toddler 101
It's booked - a much needed escape from the winter that hasn't begun yet!!
It has been four years since we have been able to get back to Florida - the place where our story into wedded bliss began. It was on the beautiful Fort Myers beach where Luke presented me with a beautiful family heirloom, and proceeded to ask me to be his wife. I will never forget that trip - it was one of the best vacations of my life, if you don't include the 4 hour boat right from hell that involved losing our dinner. Though I had known long before that trip that Luke was my forever, he was always adamant that he wouldn't get married until 30, so I thought we had a few more years of living in sin in front of us. What a great surprise it was to find out that he had changed his mind.
Fast forward to January of 2014, and we are so excited to have a chance to return to the area. However, I must say I am also incredibly petrified. It will be the first time we navigate flying with a toddler. I know that there are people everywhere that do it all the time - truly, I am not convinced any of them have a toddler as busy and stubborn as mine. However, for those of you that have braved this adventure, please - I BEG OF YOU - share your secrets. What worked, and what didn't - what do you recommend, and what would you never do again? And, when January rolls around please say a prayer for us!
It has been four years since we have been able to get back to Florida - the place where our story into wedded bliss began. It was on the beautiful Fort Myers beach where Luke presented me with a beautiful family heirloom, and proceeded to ask me to be his wife. I will never forget that trip - it was one of the best vacations of my life, if you don't include the 4 hour boat right from hell that involved losing our dinner. Though I had known long before that trip that Luke was my forever, he was always adamant that he wouldn't get married until 30, so I thought we had a few more years of living in sin in front of us. What a great surprise it was to find out that he had changed his mind.
Fast forward to January of 2014, and we are so excited to have a chance to return to the area. However, I must say I am also incredibly petrified. It will be the first time we navigate flying with a toddler. I know that there are people everywhere that do it all the time - truly, I am not convinced any of them have a toddler as busy and stubborn as mine. However, for those of you that have braved this adventure, please - I BEG OF YOU - share your secrets. What worked, and what didn't - what do you recommend, and what would you never do again? And, when January rolls around please say a prayer for us!
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
Bubble Wrap
I think there comes a time where every parent wishes that they could bubble wrap their toddler. In fact, I wouldn't doubt that most of us wish it almost every day. We panic about them climbing chairs and falling off, falling down a set of stairs, slamming their fingers in a door, or pulling a shelf down on their head. We caution them not to run on uneven cement, and cringe when they don't listen. We beg them to watch where they are walking, and kiss away their owies when they don't.
What we typically do not worry about, is them tripping over their big toe, in the middle of the kitchen floor, and obtaining one of the worst injuries they have had to date. Yes, that is my kid. God gave him two feet, but apparently not the ability to use them correctly. (Please note - he has been running since November).
As a parent, there is nothing worse than the boo-boo you can't kiss away or the inconsolable cry that comes from such an injury. Yet, as difficult as it is, it is always somewhat refreshing to see how resilient toddlers are. They have this amazing ability to go from broken to fixed in the blink of an eye - and it makes you wonder. How in the world do they just push away the hurt, and go on like it never happened. However they do it, it amazes me every time.
Thankfully, I have a very resilient little boy - who is more worried about the wonders of the outdoors and the nearest slide, than the fact that he slammed face first into the kitchen cupboards. Now, here's to hoping for a tomorrow without any major injuries!!
What we typically do not worry about, is them tripping over their big toe, in the middle of the kitchen floor, and obtaining one of the worst injuries they have had to date. Yes, that is my kid. God gave him two feet, but apparently not the ability to use them correctly. (Please note - he has been running since November).
As a parent, there is nothing worse than the boo-boo you can't kiss away or the inconsolable cry that comes from such an injury. Yet, as difficult as it is, it is always somewhat refreshing to see how resilient toddlers are. They have this amazing ability to go from broken to fixed in the blink of an eye - and it makes you wonder. How in the world do they just push away the hurt, and go on like it never happened. However they do it, it amazes me every time.
Thankfully, I have a very resilient little boy - who is more worried about the wonders of the outdoors and the nearest slide, than the fact that he slammed face first into the kitchen cupboards. Now, here's to hoping for a tomorrow without any major injuries!!
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Data Overload
Two years, three cell phone carriers, and numerous phones. It all started with Alltel's demise, and the unavoidable transfer to AT&T. Initially, I thought awesome! A nation wide carrier, one of the big ones I had always heard of, means we are going to have great services and more options. It didn't even occur to me that North Dakota was simply a part of the package for them, not an area they necessarily wanted. After 23+ hours on the phone I was happy to say that we were free and clear without a penalty of early cancelation. I even had the opportunity to speak with the office of the president - not once, but twice - to thank them for dropping the call in the middle of our conversation.
So, you can only imagine how excited I was to find that we had no service here and that Sprint has no intention of changing that in the very near future. We signed our contract with them in October of 2011 - leaving the world of technology to save some money by choosing the dumb phones that were outdated before they hit the shelf. They served the purpose - I could send and receive text messages and phone calls. There was no facebook, no internet, I couldn't stream music, games weren't compatible, and I couldn't upload the crappy pictures it took to social media. But I couldn't complain either - the agreement was fairly cheap in the world of phones and the service was awesome. It was going to be hard to walk away, but we did - again with no penalty for early cancelation.
Being faced with only one option - we are now Verizon members. I am pretty sure AT&T would not have welcomed us back with open arms - and in this area, those are the only two choices. And let me tell you, I forgot how AWESOME living in the world of technology is. Don't get me wrong - I have always had access to a computer, my Nook was a temporary replacement, and I have never been without a phone. However, having all those abilities in my palm at any given time is great. So, let me apologize ahead of time for the barrage of photos, status updates, and information coming your way - I just can't help myself.
So, you can only imagine how excited I was to find that we had no service here and that Sprint has no intention of changing that in the very near future. We signed our contract with them in October of 2011 - leaving the world of technology to save some money by choosing the dumb phones that were outdated before they hit the shelf. They served the purpose - I could send and receive text messages and phone calls. There was no facebook, no internet, I couldn't stream music, games weren't compatible, and I couldn't upload the crappy pictures it took to social media. But I couldn't complain either - the agreement was fairly cheap in the world of phones and the service was awesome. It was going to be hard to walk away, but we did - again with no penalty for early cancelation.
Being faced with only one option - we are now Verizon members. I am pretty sure AT&T would not have welcomed us back with open arms - and in this area, those are the only two choices. And let me tell you, I forgot how AWESOME living in the world of technology is. Don't get me wrong - I have always had access to a computer, my Nook was a temporary replacement, and I have never been without a phone. However, having all those abilities in my palm at any given time is great. So, let me apologize ahead of time for the barrage of photos, status updates, and information coming your way - I just can't help myself.
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Everyone dies famous in a small town...
I spent the majority of my teenage years longing for the day I got to leave this place. A place where Miranda said it best - "everyone dies famous in a small town." My life plans were going to be full of big city lights, opportunity, and people - millions and millions of people. Had you told me 10 years ago that I would be back, I would have laughed in your face. Funny how life never quite works out like you plan...even funnier how you don't realize that sometimes the things you plan, are not really what's best for you after all.
I have officially been back 'home' for a week, and I am having a hard time trying to figure out what it was that I wanted to run from all those years ago. Granted, I do understand that 10 years changes a person - and I am not the young dreamer I once was. Mostly though, I can thank Tate for my newfound appreciation of my roots. Yes, I am still in the vacation stage of being a stay at home mom, but so far days filled with long walks, playing in the park, and helping my little guy discover the wonders of the world - have been awesome! We have done things in the past week that we likely would have never done where we used to call home. Truly, I forgot how great it was to walk down the street and have people driving by wave to you - or to have someone pull over just to say hi and ask how you are doing.
I know that it won't always be like this, and eventually the lack of things to do will likely get to me. Someday I will miss being able to run down the street and grab supper. And I know that the 3rd time I have to drive 40 miles to get something I need because I forgot it the first 2, I will long for the city life. However, for now, I am openly admitting that I am liking small town life - more than I thought I ever would. So there, I admit I was wrong all those years ago....now, bring on the fame!
I have officially been back 'home' for a week, and I am having a hard time trying to figure out what it was that I wanted to run from all those years ago. Granted, I do understand that 10 years changes a person - and I am not the young dreamer I once was. Mostly though, I can thank Tate for my newfound appreciation of my roots. Yes, I am still in the vacation stage of being a stay at home mom, but so far days filled with long walks, playing in the park, and helping my little guy discover the wonders of the world - have been awesome! We have done things in the past week that we likely would have never done where we used to call home. Truly, I forgot how great it was to walk down the street and have people driving by wave to you - or to have someone pull over just to say hi and ask how you are doing.
I know that it won't always be like this, and eventually the lack of things to do will likely get to me. Someday I will miss being able to run down the street and grab supper. And I know that the 3rd time I have to drive 40 miles to get something I need because I forgot it the first 2, I will long for the city life. However, for now, I am openly admitting that I am liking small town life - more than I thought I ever would. So there, I admit I was wrong all those years ago....now, bring on the fame!
Thursday, May 9, 2013
58650
Well, we made it - we are officially relocated (if you don't count the fact that our entire house contents are still in Moorhead, along with all the necessary stuff that doesn't fit in the back of my Tahoe). Traveling with a toddler is exhausting in itself, especially when he decides sleeping is optional for the whole trip - but add to it the constant howl of a stressed out cat, and it's a wonder I drove past the state hospital without stopping to check in.
It was a long ride, that only got longer about 50 miles outside of Regent. After struggling with Tate to get him comfortable enough to think about taking a nap, I glance in my rearview mirror to see the distressed look on his face. If only I was prepared for what was coming next, I would have probably selected different blanket placement earlier. Upon my next glance in the mirror, my vision is blinded by the sight of my son projectile vomiting in the car. And not just a little bit either, I don't know that I have ever seen that much puke come out of something so small. Let me tell you, 75 mph on interstate is simply not fast enough when your child is covered head to toe in vomit. Oh and the smell....ugh, let's just say it took everything I had not to throw up the rest of the way. I did my best to clean him off - but it was impossible to get the nooks and crannys of the car seat. Ish. Needless to say, the carseat was removed upon our arrival and hosed down - and the Tahoe seats have been loved with Pinsol. Yet, I still can't get the smell out of my nose.
So far, with the exception of yesterday's travels, this journey of staying at home has been wonderful - although I must admit is still feels like a vacation instead of my reality! Monday was so beautiful, and we spent a good majority of the day playing outside soaking up the sunshine. Tuesday was really no different. In fact, it was nearly 9:30 before I was able to drag Tate inside kicking and screaming. Way past his bedtime, but he was having so much fun!! I have learned this week, that the majority of our days will be spent outdoors discovering the wonders of the world - he just loves it outside, which I am thankful for. I can't wait to share some of those adventures with you all!
It was a long ride, that only got longer about 50 miles outside of Regent. After struggling with Tate to get him comfortable enough to think about taking a nap, I glance in my rearview mirror to see the distressed look on his face. If only I was prepared for what was coming next, I would have probably selected different blanket placement earlier. Upon my next glance in the mirror, my vision is blinded by the sight of my son projectile vomiting in the car. And not just a little bit either, I don't know that I have ever seen that much puke come out of something so small. Let me tell you, 75 mph on interstate is simply not fast enough when your child is covered head to toe in vomit. Oh and the smell....ugh, let's just say it took everything I had not to throw up the rest of the way. I did my best to clean him off - but it was impossible to get the nooks and crannys of the car seat. Ish. Needless to say, the carseat was removed upon our arrival and hosed down - and the Tahoe seats have been loved with Pinsol. Yet, I still can't get the smell out of my nose.
So far, with the exception of yesterday's travels, this journey of staying at home has been wonderful - although I must admit is still feels like a vacation instead of my reality! Monday was so beautiful, and we spent a good majority of the day playing outside soaking up the sunshine. Tuesday was really no different. In fact, it was nearly 9:30 before I was able to drag Tate inside kicking and screaming. Way past his bedtime, but he was having so much fun!! I have learned this week, that the majority of our days will be spent outdoors discovering the wonders of the world - he just loves it outside, which I am thankful for. I can't wait to share some of those adventures with you all!
Thursday, April 11, 2013
Rearranging
Change - there is a lot that can be said about it. For some, it is the hardest thing they can do - change even a small part of their lives. Others, live for change and for the new opportunites that come with it. I am somewhere in the middle.
Historically, I am the rearrange the furniture in your house every 3 months type of girl because I am sick of how it looks - and it is easier than the other options, moving or buying new furniture. It always made me feel refreshed, like I was in a brand new place. I have enjoyed changing my hair color on occasion - and because of that can honestly say that blondes do not have more fun. I have even embraced fashion trends I once despised because my opinion of them changed.
I am talking about change because right now I am living it, however it isn't the rearrange my living room on occasion type of change. On April 1st, after a very long and exhausting March of preparation, our house went onto the market. We moved in with my Mother-in-Law (bless her soul), she was even willing to open her door to our cat, George. Luke has already started his new job, and will soon officially have the title of breadwinner in our family! Officially, my last day of work is May 3rd - and then I begin a new line of work, stay at home mom.
Initially, I considered myself a horrible mother because the idea of staying at home with my child all day was not something I ever planned, or truly wanted to do. I know, I know - how awful of me, right? There was a reason I spent a small fortune on my education - I wanted to work, to have a career, and to secure retirement benefits. Most days, I love my job. I love making a difference in people's lives - no matter how small and insignificant it may seem. What I was missing, is that I have an amazing opportunity to make a difference in the life of my child. No longer will I be just a guest at the supper table - instead, for better or worse, I get an opportunity to really contribute to who my child will become. In that moment, I realized that is what really matters to me - not amazing health insurance and retirement, not a huge paycheck, and certainly not 8-5 hours. What matters is being an active part of my child's life, something most moms wish for. I am lucky enough to have that opportunity.
Change is what we are living. Starting in May, our family will become residents of the western half of North Dakota, and I will start the most important and rewarding full time job I will ever have. As it gets closer, I can honestly say I am growing more and more excited. Maybe I am not such a terrible mom afterall!
Historically, I am the rearrange the furniture in your house every 3 months type of girl because I am sick of how it looks - and it is easier than the other options, moving or buying new furniture. It always made me feel refreshed, like I was in a brand new place. I have enjoyed changing my hair color on occasion - and because of that can honestly say that blondes do not have more fun. I have even embraced fashion trends I once despised because my opinion of them changed.
I am talking about change because right now I am living it, however it isn't the rearrange my living room on occasion type of change. On April 1st, after a very long and exhausting March of preparation, our house went onto the market. We moved in with my Mother-in-Law (bless her soul), she was even willing to open her door to our cat, George. Luke has already started his new job, and will soon officially have the title of breadwinner in our family! Officially, my last day of work is May 3rd - and then I begin a new line of work, stay at home mom.
Initially, I considered myself a horrible mother because the idea of staying at home with my child all day was not something I ever planned, or truly wanted to do. I know, I know - how awful of me, right? There was a reason I spent a small fortune on my education - I wanted to work, to have a career, and to secure retirement benefits. Most days, I love my job. I love making a difference in people's lives - no matter how small and insignificant it may seem. What I was missing, is that I have an amazing opportunity to make a difference in the life of my child. No longer will I be just a guest at the supper table - instead, for better or worse, I get an opportunity to really contribute to who my child will become. In that moment, I realized that is what really matters to me - not amazing health insurance and retirement, not a huge paycheck, and certainly not 8-5 hours. What matters is being an active part of my child's life, something most moms wish for. I am lucky enough to have that opportunity.
Change is what we are living. Starting in May, our family will become residents of the western half of North Dakota, and I will start the most important and rewarding full time job I will ever have. As it gets closer, I can honestly say I am growing more and more excited. Maybe I am not such a terrible mom afterall!
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
No Bones About It.
For the past week we have had a houseguest. A furry, loving, energetic pit terrior mix named Bones. It is safe to say it has been a mixed bag of emotions for this girl. Overall, one thing rings true from this experience - I am still not over the loss of my dog Jake, and simply trying to replace him isn't going to work. So, to say the very least, it has been rather eye opening to the fact that I am not ready to welcome another furry family member.
There are so many things that I miss about that dog. For example, the way Jake quietly towered at my side looking for affection, his excitement about playing fetch in the back yard, and his enthusiasm for cupcakes. I miss him trying to kick Luke out of bed so he could snuggle up next to me, his quiet disdain for the neighbor dog who was constantly trying to hump his leg, and the disheveled couch I came home to everyday from him lounging away the afternoon. I even miss the occasional annoying behaviors he had - like leaving him alone to long would assure he'd help himself to anything in the garbage because we were obviously never returning to feed him, his tendency for bladder infections which led to him having an occasional accident, and the fact that he was 110 lbs and believed he was a lap dog.
There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of him. People say that eventually there will be. It is amazing how much we grow to love our animals....
So tonight, Bones is heading back to the shelter, for more reasons than I am going to take the time to write about here. He is a good dog, with the potential to be an amazing dog - he just isn't my dog. I wanted to give him a home, even if only temporarily, partially in honor of Jake. It breaks my heart to have to send him back to the shelter, but it is also breaking my heart keeping him here. Sometimes, even the best of intentions come with bad timing.....here is to hoping that maybe someday things will be different.
If you are looking for a dog, please give Bones a look. He deserves a good family that can love him back!
Bones' information:)
There are so many things that I miss about that dog. For example, the way Jake quietly towered at my side looking for affection, his excitement about playing fetch in the back yard, and his enthusiasm for cupcakes. I miss him trying to kick Luke out of bed so he could snuggle up next to me, his quiet disdain for the neighbor dog who was constantly trying to hump his leg, and the disheveled couch I came home to everyday from him lounging away the afternoon. I even miss the occasional annoying behaviors he had - like leaving him alone to long would assure he'd help himself to anything in the garbage because we were obviously never returning to feed him, his tendency for bladder infections which led to him having an occasional accident, and the fact that he was 110 lbs and believed he was a lap dog.
There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of him. People say that eventually there will be. It is amazing how much we grow to love our animals....
So tonight, Bones is heading back to the shelter, for more reasons than I am going to take the time to write about here. He is a good dog, with the potential to be an amazing dog - he just isn't my dog. I wanted to give him a home, even if only temporarily, partially in honor of Jake. It breaks my heart to have to send him back to the shelter, but it is also breaking my heart keeping him here. Sometimes, even the best of intentions come with bad timing.....here is to hoping that maybe someday things will be different.
If you are looking for a dog, please give Bones a look. He deserves a good family that can love him back!
Bones' information:)
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Up in Smoke
Hello. My name is Kristin. I am a mom, a wife, a warm weather enthusiast, and a lover of Christmas lights. I drink too much diet Mountain Dew, consider chasing after my 1 year old exercise, and never get enough sleep. I like a bottle of wine now and then, love the company of great friends, and I am a smoker. I try to help people make choices everyday to make their lives better. I am trying to make more of those choices myself. This is the year, the year that I will do better at taking care of myself, drink more water, exercise, and.....drum roll please....quit smoking. There, I said it. I am hoping that makes it more real - that I am now accountable to all of you, you who actually take time to read the words I put on this page. (Thank you for that by the way:)
So now.....to share the cold hard truth. My quit date was going to be set by when I ran out of cigarettes. I didn't want it to be a new years resolution, because I can't remember one that I have ever successfully kept. Not only that, but I have others on my resolution agenda...for example, butting into the lives of those that I miss. However, as noble as the effort is, I must admit I make resolutions half accepting I have already failed (except for this year of course). How positive of me, I know. So for that, and many other reasons, I had no intention of quitting on 1/1/13. If only life actually cared about my plans right?
As life plays out, I smoked my last cigarette on New Years Eve, after enjoying one too many cocktails with my husband. Inevitably that means that my quit date becomes 1/1/13. Day one was super easy. There is truly no better way for me to avoid smoking than to be slightly (that may be an downplay of how I felt that day) hung over, and have smoked to much the night before. Day 2, didn't really phase me either. Yes, it was difficult to be at work and not follow my normal routine - but it was doable. I expected to wake up on day 3 thinking I would die, and that never came. Fast forward to day 4 - on my way home for lunch I was searching for something in the console of my Tahoe....and because life can be cruel, I happen to locate the 6 packs of cigarettes that had been hiding from me on New Years. That was tough. Who would ever know if I had just one? If no one sees you have the cigarette did you actually smoke? But I knew I would be so disappointed in myself and I managed to make it thru day 4. All 6 packs taunting me at every corner.
Day 5, almost day 6, I caved. My already waining discipline was completely dissolved by Bud Light. Not the first time I have made choices that left me disappointed after a few of those. But, it is what it is. I had 3 cigarettes, and they were horrible. But, it felt right - especially with the Bud Light.
I consider it a small victory. I made it 8 days with 3 cigarettes (yes I said 8, I didn't have any for the 3 days after my relapse) before I fired up the chimney again. However, I hear that relapse is a part of recovery.....so, maybe I am on my way to being smoke free sooner than I think.
I plan to try again. On my terms, when I am ready, but sooner rather than later. Like I said - this is the year. Whether I like it or not, I love my son - and I want to do it for us.
So now you know. I am a smoker. For the most part, I like being a smoker. And I am going to try to give that up. So until that happens, please forgive me if I seem a little outta sorts. I am simply trying to remove my addict status, and for those of you who have been there, you know there is nothing simple about that.
So now.....to share the cold hard truth. My quit date was going to be set by when I ran out of cigarettes. I didn't want it to be a new years resolution, because I can't remember one that I have ever successfully kept. Not only that, but I have others on my resolution agenda...for example, butting into the lives of those that I miss. However, as noble as the effort is, I must admit I make resolutions half accepting I have already failed (except for this year of course). How positive of me, I know. So for that, and many other reasons, I had no intention of quitting on 1/1/13. If only life actually cared about my plans right?
As life plays out, I smoked my last cigarette on New Years Eve, after enjoying one too many cocktails with my husband. Inevitably that means that my quit date becomes 1/1/13. Day one was super easy. There is truly no better way for me to avoid smoking than to be slightly (that may be an downplay of how I felt that day) hung over, and have smoked to much the night before. Day 2, didn't really phase me either. Yes, it was difficult to be at work and not follow my normal routine - but it was doable. I expected to wake up on day 3 thinking I would die, and that never came. Fast forward to day 4 - on my way home for lunch I was searching for something in the console of my Tahoe....and because life can be cruel, I happen to locate the 6 packs of cigarettes that had been hiding from me on New Years. That was tough. Who would ever know if I had just one? If no one sees you have the cigarette did you actually smoke? But I knew I would be so disappointed in myself and I managed to make it thru day 4. All 6 packs taunting me at every corner.
Day 5, almost day 6, I caved. My already waining discipline was completely dissolved by Bud Light. Not the first time I have made choices that left me disappointed after a few of those. But, it is what it is. I had 3 cigarettes, and they were horrible. But, it felt right - especially with the Bud Light.
I consider it a small victory. I made it 8 days with 3 cigarettes (yes I said 8, I didn't have any for the 3 days after my relapse) before I fired up the chimney again. However, I hear that relapse is a part of recovery.....so, maybe I am on my way to being smoke free sooner than I think.
I plan to try again. On my terms, when I am ready, but sooner rather than later. Like I said - this is the year. Whether I like it or not, I love my son - and I want to do it for us.
So now you know. I am a smoker. For the most part, I like being a smoker. And I am going to try to give that up. So until that happens, please forgive me if I seem a little outta sorts. I am simply trying to remove my addict status, and for those of you who have been there, you know there is nothing simple about that.
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
The Name Game
Exhaustion is setting in. My eyes are refusing to focus and my fingers are fudging letters, but here I sit - thinking it might be proper to give you a brief introduction to our family....how rude of me not to do that initially. And yes, considering it is only 8:30 at night, I absolutely refuse to admit that if I were to just lay my head down on my pillow it would only take a short moment to hit dream street.
I go by Ma ma ma ma ma ma ma in this house, but most people refer to me as Kristin. My daily gig involves helping people who are not currently able to help themselves, for many different reasons. It is challenging, heartbreaking, rewarding, endearing, and all the things in between. Most days, I wouldn't change what I do for the world, which makes me one of the lucky ones.
Just shy of five years ago I agreed to a first date with a hot band guy, who is now my husband. Most know him as Luke, but in this house, he too goes by Ma ma ma ma ma ma ma. We are hoping that will change soon. With the birth of our son, Luke decided to take a break from band life and now has the unfortunate blessing of working outside in the miserable winter elements, but he has the brightest spirit and finds the positive in almost everything. More often than not, he is my sanity. However, somedays - he is also the reason for my insanity, but hey, that's marriage....right?? All things considered, I am a very lucky woman - and I know it!
Our union brought about the busy little man named Tate that you met in my last post. He is the only one that get's called by his given name in this house - but refuses to respond to it. Puff, Tator Tot, Peanut, and No-No don't get much of a response either. He runs the show around here and no matter what we do to try to regain control, reasoning with a 1 year old hasn't been very successful.....
Hello from our family to yours.
I go by Ma ma ma ma ma ma ma in this house, but most people refer to me as Kristin. My daily gig involves helping people who are not currently able to help themselves, for many different reasons. It is challenging, heartbreaking, rewarding, endearing, and all the things in between. Most days, I wouldn't change what I do for the world, which makes me one of the lucky ones.
Just shy of five years ago I agreed to a first date with a hot band guy, who is now my husband. Most know him as Luke, but in this house, he too goes by Ma ma ma ma ma ma ma. We are hoping that will change soon. With the birth of our son, Luke decided to take a break from band life and now has the unfortunate blessing of working outside in the miserable winter elements, but he has the brightest spirit and finds the positive in almost everything. More often than not, he is my sanity. However, somedays - he is also the reason for my insanity, but hey, that's marriage....right?? All things considered, I am a very lucky woman - and I know it!
Our union brought about the busy little man named Tate that you met in my last post. He is the only one that get's called by his given name in this house - but refuses to respond to it. Puff, Tator Tot, Peanut, and No-No don't get much of a response either. He runs the show around here and no matter what we do to try to regain control, reasoning with a 1 year old hasn't been very successful.....
Hello from our family to yours.
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
Parental Guidance
Those of you who know me, know that currently my life revolves around the busiest one year old you will ever meet. He is always in motion, only holding still when it is time to sleep. Long gone are the days of carefree cuddles and naps in the chair together, hello to the days of defining boundaries and helping him navigate the rights and wrongs of the world around us. It is extremely exciting, and completely terrifying at the same time - those of you who have ever had a one year old understand. To the rest of you, well.....I hope you have the opportunity to understand someday.
However, I wouldn't have it any other way. His curiosity and energy are exhausting, but so endearing. I will never understand the wonder that exists in items such as the flipping motion of dad's cell phone, the buttons on the television remote, or the shape of the digital thermometer - not to mention the process of opening and closing doors, swishing the water in the toilet, or pulling the cat's tail. Although I may never understand it, I can appreciate it. The simple magic that exists in the mind of a toddler is amazing, and is a good reminder to myself - not just as a parent, but as a person - that there is magic in places, that as adults, we forget to look. No - I may not find it in the toilet bowl (I sure hope) or in my cupboards, but it does exist and remembering that is half the battle!
So, to any parents who find my blog, and actually take a moment to read it - I would love to hear about some of the things you have experienced/learned while sharing your home with a toddler. The challenges, the triumphs, the feel-good moments.....words of encouragement, words of warning...whatever you feel like sharing.
However, I wouldn't have it any other way. His curiosity and energy are exhausting, but so endearing. I will never understand the wonder that exists in items such as the flipping motion of dad's cell phone, the buttons on the television remote, or the shape of the digital thermometer - not to mention the process of opening and closing doors, swishing the water in the toilet, or pulling the cat's tail. Although I may never understand it, I can appreciate it. The simple magic that exists in the mind of a toddler is amazing, and is a good reminder to myself - not just as a parent, but as a person - that there is magic in places, that as adults, we forget to look. No - I may not find it in the toilet bowl (I sure hope) or in my cupboards, but it does exist and remembering that is half the battle!
So, to any parents who find my blog, and actually take a moment to read it - I would love to hear about some of the things you have experienced/learned while sharing your home with a toddler. The challenges, the triumphs, the feel-good moments.....words of encouragement, words of warning...whatever you feel like sharing.
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