EBF. EBF is short for exclusively breast feeding. Although I must say, there is nothing short about it. It takes a lot of time. A lot of patience, and for me, a long time before my nips weren't sore. Sounds fun right? Actually it's wonderful. EBF is an awesome bonding experience and an excellent reason to stop whatever it is I'm doing, sit down and put my feet up.
I have been away from Rosey Glasses for quite a while. I just didn't have the energy to do much during my last months of pregnancy (okay the whole pregnancy) and during the first 2 months of little CJ's life. Yes, my sweet little boy is here and two months old. He is the third child I've breastfed, but the first that I have exclusively breastfed. He's never had a bottle although he did get about a half ounce of formula in a supplemental feeder to help him latch. I am super proud of myself. It has taken a lot of determination and endurance (cracked nipples anyone?).
I always knew I would breastfeed, and honestly have no problem with formula. My first two received a mixture of both. However, I believe this will be my last baby and I wanted to see if I could do it. Could I be my child's only source of food? Could I dedicate myself to the goal of at least one year? So I'm doing it!
Now it's only been two months, but we are going strong. We have survived clogged milk ducts, cracked and bleeding nipples, and latching problems, but we are doing it!! I do plan on introducing bottles... Momma wants a glass of wine!!! But he will only get bottles of breast milk and only on rare occasions.
Sorry if I seem to be gloating, it's only because I'm so freaking proud of myself!! With that said, it is not my intent to belittle mommas that choose to bottle feed. We all do what is best for our families and no one should feel bad about how things turn out.
Be Blessed!!!
Showing posts with label Random Thoughts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Random Thoughts. Show all posts
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
Thursday, May 31, 2012
So where do I start? How about with a HAPPY SPRING!!!! Have I ever told you that spring is my absolute favorite season. The weather is great, not too hot and not too cold. The flowers bloom and everything looks so fresh and alive after the winter. Last, but certainly not least... I celebrate my birthday!! Yes, I am now a very happy 34 year old. Wow, can't believe I'm in my mid-thirties!!!
How are the boys you ask (hehehe)? They are wonderful (can you tell I'm in a great mood?) Munchkin is almost completely potty trained. We only wear a pull-up for bedtime at night, he's even dropped them for his naps. He continues to amaze me with his vocabulary and conversation. It's like talking to a little man. I wouldn't be keeping it totally real if I didn't say he is currently in his terrible threes. Yes I said threes. We sailed through the twos with very mild tantrums that were far and few between. He was a quiet and very calm two year old. It is not the case now, we deal with almost daily tantrums, and total failure of his ears to process our request (basically he doesn't listen to a word we say). When I was a teacher, I prided myself on having great discipline without being mean. I could handle 20 something tough inner-city 7 year olds, but for some reason I have a hard time handling my one 3 year old, and his 20 month old brother.
As for Little Bear, I will soon have to start dropping the Little and just call him Bear. He's getting soooo big. He's still got a great personality and is mostly always laughing or smiling. He still doesn't say much, and have started early intervention with him. Some of my friends laugh, but I want to make sure I offer every opportunity to him to progress. He is learning sign language, so he's doing much better at communicating his needs and wants, which makes life better for all of us. I haven't had the heart to cut his hair, so he still sports a curly (albeit messy) afro.
As for me, like I said before I am a very happy 34 year old. I've never been one to be ashamed or afraid of my age. I have no regrets in life. I LOVED my 20's. I partied like a rock star, traveled like an explorer (well maybe not since I mostly stayed on resorts, except for Paris!!! Loved Paris... but I digress). I dated, and flirted, and did stupid and dangerous things I hope my kids never do. At this point in life I love being a mom and a wife, and I am extremely happy to be expecting our third addition. Yes, you read correctly!!! WE ARE PREGNANT!!!! 14 weeks tomorrow, to be exact. We are due to become a party of 5 November 30, 2012. I am beyond elated, and yes, this was a major contributor to my 2 month break from blogging, and tot school, and general house keeping, and ummm (I'm not proud) but hygiene as well. LOL, I've been a total laze ball in sweats and no make-up for long enough.
So I am back and super excited to re-organize, teach tot school, and share our Rosey Glasses summer fun!!!
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Stuck In A Slump
I'm guilty.. of being a total lazy bum. I have been stuck in a slump, just can't get motivated and moving. During the last few months my husband and I experienced something I wouldn't wish on anyone and I've been pretty down because of it. I mean eating junk, watching TV, and barely keeping up with household chores. I wish I could sleep the days (hurt?) away. I've been forcing myself to do Tot School with the boys but because my heart isn't in it... neither is Munchkin's and he's been totally acting out. I've even done a few fun things like fun family Valentine's Day... but, during nap time, when I usually try and be some what productive.. this has been my view.
Pitiful.
I need to get up! Life must go on, and letting myself go and turning into a slob is not the kind of example I want to be to my boys. I must get up! So this morning I did... at 5:15am. I went to the gym came home and started what is turning out to be a very productive day. My home already looks better and I wouldn't be totally humiliated if we had an unannounced visitor.
And almost as if she was reading my mind or knows what I needed... a bloggy friend of mind is posting about time management... making the most of your days. Please check out Latoya's awesome blog..
I'm not sure that everyday will be easy but I know what I need to do for me... and my family. I need to get up.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Party Planning Overdrive
Well folks in just under 5 days we will be throwing Munchkin his Disney Cars birthday bash. I can't wait! I am totally overwhelmed, and my to do list has been growing longer and longer. To top it all off Munchkin has seemed to reach the terrible two's late or is he early for the horrible, annoying, monstrous, doanythingtogetonmynerves threes!?!?
And am I the only one who still invites (or excepts friends of friends invites) with a week left to party?!?! I'm crazy I know... it just, the more the merrier!... right?
Anyhow, I've been skipping tot school and I will probably skip blogging for the rest of the week. However... I will be sharing all (well most) of the party pics when I return.
To make my life slightly easier today I will pre mix all the dry ingredients for the cake and cupcakes (also corn bread, I think it'll go great with my chili bar). I've decided on chocolate cake with strawberry cream filling and white chocolate butter cream frosting. I CAN NOT WAIT to stuff my face. I know I know, not so healthy, and my mom thinks I'm gonna put all the kids on a sugar high, but come on... strawberries are a fruit, and birthdays are once a year. I am also planning on pre-chopping and shredding anything that I can. My goal is to not do anything but frost cupcakes, and place balloons, and set up (not cook) the food on the day of the party. Wish me luck. Last year things did not go as planned... do they ever?
Anyway, like I said I will be MIA until sometime next week. I'm sure I will spend the first half of next week feverishly cleaning up after the bash. Have a wonderful remainder of the week.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
To 3 or Not To 3
My husband and I have been blessed with two wonderful boys. We both love them with our whole selves. Sometimes I can't believe how fortunate we've been, but still... I long to have a third child.
Simple right? Go for it. We're financially able, we have plenty of room in our home and a third would complete our happy family. The thing is, both of my boys were born prematurely. Munchkin was delivered at 36 weeks and Little Bear at 34 weeks. My husband, the numbers guy that he is, swears if we have a third, he'll (yes, I think it'd be a boy) be born at 32 weeks.
The causes of their early births were slightly different. I had to be induced with Munchkin due to preeclampsia. He didn't tolerate labor well and after about 5 hours of labor he had to be delivered via cesarean section. There went my dream of having a natural delivery. He was born at 5lbs, 8oz. While he was the smallest in the nursery, he breathed on his own right away (so no visit to the NICU) and aside from being jaundiced he was a very healthy adorable baby boy.
Little Bear's situation was a tad more serious. I was at the hospital for an ultrasound (because of my first pregnancy I had more than the typical pregnancy). Everything looked good, but my blood pressure was extremely high (can't remember the number but it was something like 170/100). I was directed to the labor and delivery area where they would do some blood tests. When the preliminary blood work results came in, my doctor informed us we'd be having our baby that night. My husband and I tried bargaining for extra time. I promised to stay off my feet and hubby promised to keep me calm. Doc was hearing nothing of it. He told us that the baby needed to come out now. He explained that I was presenting with H.E.L.L.P syndrome and went over all of the problems I'd face if we didn't deliver. He didn't even want to risk me going through labor, so again I'd be having a c-section. On top of that, because I had been taking aspirin (doctors orders), I'd have to go under for the c-section, which also meant my husband couldn't be present. Poof there went my dreams of having an all natural VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean). Little Bear was born at a pretty good weight 5 pounds, but his premature lungs were not quite ready. He spent his first two weeks in the NICU each day getting stronger.
So far neither of my boys suffers from any long term health issues. They have both achieved milestones on the later end of the scale(which was expected) and obviously were a bit small for their ages (Munchkin has caught up and Little Bear has finally reached the 10th percentile). Everything is peachy with them, but would we be tempting fate to try for a third? A very small part of me thinks yes, just be happy with what you have. However, a much larger part of me figures, you never know what could happen either way, and we've gotten the go ahead from two separate doctors. Sigh... To three or not to three is still the question.
Simple right? Go for it. We're financially able, we have plenty of room in our home and a third would complete our happy family. The thing is, both of my boys were born prematurely. Munchkin was delivered at 36 weeks and Little Bear at 34 weeks. My husband, the numbers guy that he is, swears if we have a third, he'll (yes, I think it'd be a boy) be born at 32 weeks.
The causes of their early births were slightly different. I had to be induced with Munchkin due to preeclampsia. He didn't tolerate labor well and after about 5 hours of labor he had to be delivered via cesarean section. There went my dream of having a natural delivery. He was born at 5lbs, 8oz. While he was the smallest in the nursery, he breathed on his own right away (so no visit to the NICU) and aside from being jaundiced he was a very healthy adorable baby boy.
Little Bear's situation was a tad more serious. I was at the hospital for an ultrasound (because of my first pregnancy I had more than the typical pregnancy). Everything looked good, but my blood pressure was extremely high (can't remember the number but it was something like 170/100). I was directed to the labor and delivery area where they would do some blood tests. When the preliminary blood work results came in, my doctor informed us we'd be having our baby that night. My husband and I tried bargaining for extra time. I promised to stay off my feet and hubby promised to keep me calm. Doc was hearing nothing of it. He told us that the baby needed to come out now. He explained that I was presenting with H.E.L.L.P syndrome and went over all of the problems I'd face if we didn't deliver. He didn't even want to risk me going through labor, so again I'd be having a c-section. On top of that, because I had been taking aspirin (doctors orders), I'd have to go under for the c-section, which also meant my husband couldn't be present. Poof there went my dreams of having an all natural VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean). Little Bear was born at a pretty good weight 5 pounds, but his premature lungs were not quite ready. He spent his first two weeks in the NICU each day getting stronger.
So far neither of my boys suffers from any long term health issues. They have both achieved milestones on the later end of the scale(which was expected) and obviously were a bit small for their ages (Munchkin has caught up and Little Bear has finally reached the 10th percentile). Everything is peachy with them, but would we be tempting fate to try for a third? A very small part of me thinks yes, just be happy with what you have. However, a much larger part of me figures, you never know what could happen either way, and we've gotten the go ahead from two separate doctors. Sigh... To three or not to three is still the question.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Watching Them Grow
Today I'll take a break from organizing posts and reflect on my love affair with being a mother. I love it! Yes sometimes I can get stressed out and want to hide in the laundry room... Wait not the laundry room, a bar... Yeah, sometimes I'd love to hide out in a bar. However most of the time I love it. I love how Little Bear reaches his arms up for me and his face lights up in the morning when I get him from his crib.
I love the conversations (using this word loosely) that I have with Munchkin. His personality is growing and developing everyday. Some times I crack up at the things he says... You know, the spit your food out kind. Last week I accidentally (on purpose) threw away a small piece from a happy meal toy. The next time he threw something out.. I was caught. He said, very lecturing like, "Mommy, dis does not go in dere." (he still hasn't mastered the "th" sound, which is a whole other thing I love).
Sometimes I worry about not having little infants anymore (at least for now), but I love each new stage and milestone of their lives. Little Bear is all over the place and getting into everything now. I think I have at least 20 minor heart attacks a day as he comes dangerously close to bumping is face or head... or worse. And the kid isn't even walking yet! But I love that he's so curious, and his new independence makes me smile.
I love the mega block sandwiches I get from Munchkin, and I gobble them happily. It's wonderful to see his imagination blossoming. He is growing into such a kind, imaginative, handsome (of course ;), and smart little boy. At times I just stare, thinking back to those days when his tiny hand barely fit around my finger... sigh/smile.
It warms me up inside to see my two boys playing and interacting with each other. I swear our home gets louder every day and I know this is only the beginning, and I'm loving (almost) every minute. While I love my babies, I look forward to what is to come. Not sure why I'm feeling so sappy, but it's the truth... and I'm sure I'm not alone.
Leiah
I love the conversations (using this word loosely) that I have with Munchkin. His personality is growing and developing everyday. Some times I crack up at the things he says... You know, the spit your food out kind. Last week I accidentally (on purpose) threw away a small piece from a happy meal toy. The next time he threw something out.. I was caught. He said, very lecturing like, "Mommy, dis does not go in dere." (he still hasn't mastered the "th" sound, which is a whole other thing I love).
Sometimes I worry about not having little infants anymore (at least for now), but I love each new stage and milestone of their lives. Little Bear is all over the place and getting into everything now. I think I have at least 20 minor heart attacks a day as he comes dangerously close to bumping is face or head... or worse. And the kid isn't even walking yet! But I love that he's so curious, and his new independence makes me smile.
I love the mega block sandwiches I get from Munchkin, and I gobble them happily. It's wonderful to see his imagination blossoming. He is growing into such a kind, imaginative, handsome (of course ;), and smart little boy. At times I just stare, thinking back to those days when his tiny hand barely fit around my finger... sigh/smile.
It warms me up inside to see my two boys playing and interacting with each other. I swear our home gets louder every day and I know this is only the beginning, and I'm loving (almost) every minute. While I love my babies, I look forward to what is to come. Not sure why I'm feeling so sappy, but it's the truth... and I'm sure I'm not alone.
Leiah
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Torn
Today as I Pushed my double stroller around, I realized that in just over a year I will return to work. Munchkin will be 3 working on 4 and Little Bear will be 2 (yikes!!). Anyway... My district will hold my job for two years and hubby and I like the idea of me having a job waiting just in case. So September 2012 I will Return to the classroom and I'm torn. On one hand I would love to have a reason to get out of the house. To get dressed with make-up, get my hair done (regularly), mmmm get my morning coffee. But I look at my babies and I'm heartbroken that I'll have to leave them. I crave the daily companionship of other adults, to talk (gossip), and to inspire young minds. But can't I inspire my own boys, can't I talk (gossip) over the phone, maybe I could get dressed with make-up at home (yeah right) Uuuggggg!!! But I'd love to have a more shared role with my husband in terms of household duties, and childcare. So torn, so so torn.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Things That I Thought Yesterday.
Yesterday I realized my brain runs a million miles a minute with totally contradictory thoughts. Here are few... In no particular order:
Why is it so hot at 7am... OMG! (Sometimes I literally think in internet slang)
I wish this kid would stop following me.
Bad mommy
I love that kid so much.
Why, when they have this huge play room are they both right under me.
Shoot, 11 am... What's for dinner?
Can't wait for the beach tomorrow!
Aww, it'll be Little Bear's first time... Sniffle.
Oooh Wall-E is on.. I love this movie, I should DVR it... Munchkin will love it too.
I can't stand these dogs!!!
Fricken fur all over the place.
Wy am I still sweating... Isn't the AC on?
Grrrr...why do I feel like the maid.
I can't believe he doesn't like Wall-E... Crazy kid.
I can't wait till these terrible twos are f-ing over...
Wait then he'll just be older... Aww my babies are growing too fast.
I so lucky to be able to stay home with them.
I need to go back to work!
No I don't!
I wonder how those triplets from the NICU are doing, they'd be the same age as Little Bear now.
Oh My Gosh!!!! What if I had three 10 month olds and a 2 year old... Shaking my head!
Why is he awake already?!?!
Why does he just throw his f-ing clothes all over... Wtf... Grrr.
I need a glass of wine.
Damn it's hot!
So glad this cutie is sleeping.
I love him so much!!
I wanna eat those toes... (proceeds to insert toes in mouth)
Aww I wish Munchkin would come here and give me a hug.
Yay... Beach tomorrow!!!
Should we bring the baby tent?
It's so fricken hot.
So glad to get away from the house with only one child... And yes he's still sleeping.
I love Babies R Us
No I don't need that
Aww that's cute.... No put it back... Stick to the list.
Damn it... Can't believe I left the meat and cheese on the deli counter... F-ing mommy brain
Wow, it's 8 o'clock already.
I hope Munchkin is still up, wait I know Munchkin is still up.
WTF... He couldn't even get his PJ's on!!! Sheesh he only had one kid here.
I'm so tired
Wow... Look at my boys. (imagines them as teenagers, then quickly shakes image away)
I love rocking my babies
Finally quiet.
Aaaaaaaah... Now where's that wine?
Why is it so hot at 7am... OMG! (Sometimes I literally think in internet slang)
I wish this kid would stop following me.
Bad mommy
I love that kid so much.
Why, when they have this huge play room are they both right under me.
Shoot, 11 am... What's for dinner?
Can't wait for the beach tomorrow!
Aww, it'll be Little Bear's first time... Sniffle.
Oooh Wall-E is on.. I love this movie, I should DVR it... Munchkin will love it too.
I can't stand these dogs!!!
Fricken fur all over the place.
Wy am I still sweating... Isn't the AC on?
Grrrr...why do I feel like the maid.
I can't believe he doesn't like Wall-E... Crazy kid.
I can't wait till these terrible twos are f-ing over...
Wait then he'll just be older... Aww my babies are growing too fast.
I so lucky to be able to stay home with them.
I need to go back to work!
No I don't!
I wonder how those triplets from the NICU are doing, they'd be the same age as Little Bear now.
Oh My Gosh!!!! What if I had three 10 month olds and a 2 year old... Shaking my head!
Why is he awake already?!?!
Why does he just throw his f-ing clothes all over... Wtf... Grrr.
I need a glass of wine.
Damn it's hot!
So glad this cutie is sleeping.
I love him so much!!
I wanna eat those toes... (proceeds to insert toes in mouth)
Aww I wish Munchkin would come here and give me a hug.
Yay... Beach tomorrow!!!
Should we bring the baby tent?
It's so fricken hot.
So glad to get away from the house with only one child... And yes he's still sleeping.
I love Babies R Us
No I don't need that
Aww that's cute.... No put it back... Stick to the list.
Damn it... Can't believe I left the meat and cheese on the deli counter... F-ing mommy brain
Wow, it's 8 o'clock already.
I hope Munchkin is still up, wait I know Munchkin is still up.
WTF... He couldn't even get his PJ's on!!! Sheesh he only had one kid here.
I'm so tired
Wow... Look at my boys. (imagines them as teenagers, then quickly shakes image away)
I love rocking my babies
Finally quiet.
Aaaaaaaah... Now where's that wine?
Monday, July 18, 2011
Love Those Loungy Weekends
Happy Monday!!! This past weekend we actually didn't do anything and it was wonderful. As much as I love going to a BBQ, or one of the other millions activities that we have planned for the summer, there is something to be said about just hanging at home. I can move slowly for one. I still kind of do the typical things: care for the boys, cook, even a bit of cleaning. I just get to do it more slowly. During the week, when I am at "work" I'm in a zone (well I try to be). If I'm not then I tend to get stuck in the lazy place could be in front of the TV, Computer, or even zoning out in the playroom while the boys get down. If I keep myself on task, which is tricky to do, then I accomplish most everything.
Anyway back to lazy weekends. I'm glad we had nothing to do, cause I had a heck of a headache on Saturday that kind of lasted all day. You know the kind that throbs behind your eyes... ugggghh!!! I went on strike for dinner and DH had to get some things together. Luckily I keep frozen meals in the freezer for days like these.
On Sunday I felt much better. I got up and made some butterscotch muffins. I substituted apple sauce for the oil and used egg substitute as well. I would post the recipe but DH said they were dry (thanks, in my sarcastic voice). Munchkin liked them, of course I think the only reason he was partial to them is because he thought they were cupcakes. Oh well.
A few weeks ago I got a brand new cast iron skillet. I was watching the Neely's on Food Newtwork and they made something in one. It made me remember back in the day when my mom and grand mom had one. It reminded me of some good old fashioned stick to your bones kind of food. Food that makes the house smell delish, and warms you up inside and out. Now I realize it's summer, but when I want something, I want it. It was preseasoned but I still gave it a good rubdown with crisco and put it on the stove on low. Since is was Sunday (plus since I went on strike on Saturday) I decided to make a yummy dinner of Roasted Chicken with onion gravy, rice and beans, and steamed veggies. Okay okay... I admit that I made rice and beans from a box, but it's because while I consider my self a pretty good cook, I have not mastered rice. It's always sticky and clumpy. Hubby's family is of Haitian decent and rice was a staple in his house growing up. Sadly rice is not my thing... I can make some good mashed potatoes, and mac and cheese. But rice, a food he says he ate almost everyday of his young life is usually not on our menu, unless we have a box of just add water. Goya is the best ;)
Anyway back to lazy weekends. I'm glad we had nothing to do, cause I had a heck of a headache on Saturday that kind of lasted all day. You know the kind that throbs behind your eyes... ugggghh!!! I went on strike for dinner and DH had to get some things together. Luckily I keep frozen meals in the freezer for days like these.
On Sunday I felt much better. I got up and made some butterscotch muffins. I substituted apple sauce for the oil and used egg substitute as well. I would post the recipe but DH said they were dry (thanks, in my sarcastic voice). Munchkin liked them, of course I think the only reason he was partial to them is because he thought they were cupcakes. Oh well.
Well now its Monday... back to the daily grind. A grind that I love by the way (does that sound bad). I love cooking and taking care of my home with my two little boys close by. I love that I can decide if I want to finish washing dishes, or stop and race Munchkin with his cars, decide to fold clothes or pick up Little Bear and tickle his feet. He really does have the cutest feet.
 |
| See... aren't these the cutest feet in the world!!! |
Anyway until next time, have a wonderful day, week, month, year... LIFE!!
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Why Am I Still Awake
For months I've been praying to the lord to just give me 5 straight hours of sleep. I never got it. For months I endured night time rendezvous with two little boys. Night terrors, nursing(snacking), teething, just plain old hold me time... I didn't sleep... Ever! So now Little Bear is sleeping sooo much better and Munchkin isn't waking up screaming as much, and what am I doing at 12:06am? Sleeping? No... I'm on this silly little (but very cool) iPad. Hubby's sleeping, Munchkin is sleeping, Little Bear is sleeping... Hell, even the dogs are sleeping. But am I? No. What is wrong with me? Could it be that all day... ALL DAY.. Someone needs me, I'm doing something for someone else all day. Some call it the witching hour... I call it the quiet hour(s). Time for me! (is this selfish?) no one calling me, or asking me to do anything. No one needing my attention.
Just me. Sigh.. If only I wasn't so tired.
Just me. Sigh.. If only I wasn't so tired.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
The damn bugs!!
Last week I saw a humming bird, an actual humming, hovering, tiny humming bird! This may not be exciting to you, but I had never seen one before then. Once in a while I see foxes, and pretty often I see deer in my yard. I've seen lots of different colored birds (sometimes makes me think of getting into bird watching... maybe not), and the butterflies are gorgeous. I can't be sure, but I think I've seen a hawk. I've never seen a bear, but my neighbor said they did. I say all this to say how awesome it is to live out in the country. I get go see so many beautiful living things, and I love pointing them out to my son. I love love love it, except... for the damn bugs.
I've seen an equal number of insect species as I have cute furry and feathery ones. I'm not particularly afraid of bugs... I just don't like them. At the risk of sounding to girlie... They're gross. Spiders, beatles, flys, stink bugs, ants, mosquitoes and all the other little critters are just one big ol' pile of yuck! Luckily, they tend to stay outside and I can tolerate them out there. But here and there they make there way in the house. I take serious offense when they are in one of my babies' rooms. The pest will quickly receive a sentence of death by shoe, or rolled up magazine. Uggggg... I get the hebbee gee bees just thinking about them. One the other hand...
I also love the view from just about every side of my house, especially the back. The first time my husband and I walked through our home, I imagined sipping coffee at our table and gazing outside. I am happy to say I've done it many times. In the fall the colors are frickin' amazing. After a good snow, it looks like a winter wonderland (remember when Lucy first went through the wardrobe... Yeah, like that). in the spring and summer the hills are covered with thick greenery so bright it makes me truly believe God must have been an artist.
If it weren't for the damn bugs, this place would be utopia (small exaggeration). The bright side of thousands of bugs... (I really try to find the bright side of everything) lightening bugs, or fire flies for some of you. On any given spring evening it looks like a thousand tiny camera flashes all firing at the same time. Think super bowl during the winning catch. I love it, and wish I had a camera that could capture it. I guess the damn bugs aren't all bad...
I've seen an equal number of insect species as I have cute furry and feathery ones. I'm not particularly afraid of bugs... I just don't like them. At the risk of sounding to girlie... They're gross. Spiders, beatles, flys, stink bugs, ants, mosquitoes and all the other little critters are just one big ol' pile of yuck! Luckily, they tend to stay outside and I can tolerate them out there. But here and there they make there way in the house. I take serious offense when they are in one of my babies' rooms. The pest will quickly receive a sentence of death by shoe, or rolled up magazine. Uggggg... I get the hebbee gee bees just thinking about them. One the other hand...
I also love the view from just about every side of my house, especially the back. The first time my husband and I walked through our home, I imagined sipping coffee at our table and gazing outside. I am happy to say I've done it many times. In the fall the colors are frickin' amazing. After a good snow, it looks like a winter wonderland (remember when Lucy first went through the wardrobe... Yeah, like that). in the spring and summer the hills are covered with thick greenery so bright it makes me truly believe God must have been an artist.
 |
| If only I was a good photographer, perhaps I could do the view some justice... sigh. |
Thursday, June 2, 2011
The Reality Is...
When I first started staying at home with my boys, I had major plans. The TV would hardly ever get turned on, we'd have 5 star dinners every night, and my house would be immaculate. This is not the case. I had no idea this new role of mine would be so challenging. When my first son was born, I stayed home for seven months before going back to work. We lived in a house only a fraction of the size of our house now. My son was sleeping through the night by four months, and we had the luxury of two cars (meaning errands could be done while my husband was at work).
Things are different this time around. For one, my house is huge. No, I am not complaining about it, I love my house, I love my development, and I love the country scenery I get to look at while sipping my coffee. However, a house three times as big, takes three times as long to clean.
On random nights when my little munchkin sleeps through the night (that means 8pm till at least 5am), I feel like a domestic goddess. I'm up before my husband, the dogs get walked, coffee made, and I might even be inclined to make a hearty breakfast. Unfortunately those days are few and far between. I am often so tired after the night, that when 7:00 roles around I can barely open my eyes. I drag myself around, changing diapers, making quick breakfasts (good thing Munchkin loves cereal), walking dogs. The rest of the day is similar, my patience is running low for two year old antics, and I resort to the TV to keep him occupied while I clean up.
Then the guilt sets in. I made a new years resolution to spend more time with the babies. The cleaning after all can wait, but their little legs, and fat feet, will be grown before I know it. I started this post with the idea that I'd be confessing that things aren't always as rosey as they seem. However the more I write, the more I realize that I am once again putting too much pressure on myself.
My husband doesn't seem to notice if dinner takes me 30 minutes or 2 hours, and of course Munchkin seems to enjoy less complicated meals. I don't even think my husband is bothered by mess unless he knows someone is coming to visit. I guess the truth is, I've concocted this image of the perfect stay at home mom and I've been trying to emulate this made up person. I think I'm afraid if I'm myself I won't be good at this stat at home thing. The reality is, I need to focus on the reasons I at home, and that's my boys!
Things are different this time around. For one, my house is huge. No, I am not complaining about it, I love my house, I love my development, and I love the country scenery I get to look at while sipping my coffee. However, a house three times as big, takes three times as long to clean.
On random nights when my little munchkin sleeps through the night (that means 8pm till at least 5am), I feel like a domestic goddess. I'm up before my husband, the dogs get walked, coffee made, and I might even be inclined to make a hearty breakfast. Unfortunately those days are few and far between. I am often so tired after the night, that when 7:00 roles around I can barely open my eyes. I drag myself around, changing diapers, making quick breakfasts (good thing Munchkin loves cereal), walking dogs. The rest of the day is similar, my patience is running low for two year old antics, and I resort to the TV to keep him occupied while I clean up.
Then the guilt sets in. I made a new years resolution to spend more time with the babies. The cleaning after all can wait, but their little legs, and fat feet, will be grown before I know it. I started this post with the idea that I'd be confessing that things aren't always as rosey as they seem. However the more I write, the more I realize that I am once again putting too much pressure on myself.
My husband doesn't seem to notice if dinner takes me 30 minutes or 2 hours, and of course Munchkin seems to enjoy less complicated meals. I don't even think my husband is bothered by mess unless he knows someone is coming to visit. I guess the truth is, I've concocted this image of the perfect stay at home mom and I've been trying to emulate this made up person. I think I'm afraid if I'm myself I won't be good at this stat at home thing. The reality is, I need to focus on the reasons I at home, and that's my boys!
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
The Next Rainy Day.
Last week I challenged myself to finally clean out and organize my closet, super clean my kitchen, and wash all my floors. I am very happy to say I did complete my closet and have been enjoying an organized closet for almost a week now. I just finished cleaning my kitchen.. Including cleaning out the fridge, washing floors, and cleaning off the junk magnet of a little mini office desk. Sadly I didn't get a chance to wash all of the floors in my house, but I did get to a few. The weather is back to sunny skies, with only alate afternoon thunderstorms. My boys and I have been enjoying the time out, and I will be trying desperately to not fall behind on the housekeeping again. Then again there is always the next rainy day ;)
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Saved by The Rain
It's been raining the last few days, well maybe I should say storming. So once again the boys and I are stuck inside. Will I let this get the best of me? NO! Time for operation clean house. The prior weeks Wonderful weather had the three of us outside for a large part of, which of course led to the neglect of certain areas of the house (okay... All areas). Operation clean house will hopefully catch me up and get my house in tip top shape for the beautiful weather expected next week.
The Mission:
Super clean the kitchen
Wash all floors in the house
Organize my closet
Clean and disinfect playroom
According to the national weather service, I have until Friday. That leaves me 4 days (my closet will take at least two). This mission is tough, but I totally accept! Hopefully this iPad will not self distruct, but I will be in absolute silence for the next 4 days while I attempt this feat. Hopefully I will post again soon with great news... We'll see!
The Mission:
Super clean the kitchen
Wash all floors in the house
Organize my closet
Clean and disinfect playroom
According to the national weather service, I have until Friday. That leaves me 4 days (my closet will take at least two). This mission is tough, but I totally accept! Hopefully this iPad will not self distruct, but I will be in absolute silence for the next 4 days while I attempt this feat. Hopefully I will post again soon with great news... We'll see!
Friday, May 13, 2011
Monday, May 9, 2011
A Great Company To Work For!
So last week I made a really small order for Mary Kay. Just a few things for my mother, sister, and her friend. Since I wasn't going to see them until the weekend, I didn't open my package when it arrived. Instead my unopened box sat on my desk for nearly a week. On Saturday when I finally open the box and gave out everyones goodies I realized some things weren't shipped. Great!!!! (in my sarcastic voice) Who is going to believe that I didn't loose the products myself or simple keep them if I called the company. Well fast forward to Monday. I call my branch, explain the situation, and a very friendly woman first apologizes then tells me my replacements will be shipped shortly.
I LOVE this company. I've only had to call once before for a damaged item and it was quickly replaced. No attitude or long wait. You speak with a happy friendly person who is very understanding of the fussy 7 month old in the back ground. It's instances like this, along with the fun I have doing one on one facials that keep me confidant I have made the right choice in my decision to sell Mary Kay.
Feel free to contact me if you've ever thought of joining or rejoining the pink bubble!
I LOVE this company. I've only had to call once before for a damaged item and it was quickly replaced. No attitude or long wait. You speak with a happy friendly person who is very understanding of the fussy 7 month old in the back ground. It's instances like this, along with the fun I have doing one on one facials that keep me confidant I have made the right choice in my decision to sell Mary Kay.
Feel free to contact me if you've ever thought of joining or rejoining the pink bubble!
Monday, April 25, 2011
A Laundry Solution
I've been reading a lot of blogs and listening to a lot of venting about LAUNDRY. It is a never ending war. Even the most skilled mamas have a hard time keeping up with the piles and piles of laundry that continue to grow. For my friends with out children... please know that one infant can create the equivalent to 3 grown man loads in one day
(# small exaggeration).
Well I've been trying out a solution that was suggested by a neighbor of mine. She is a busy mom of five, and after we both vented about laundry she joked that her kids have a uniform at home. Now I have to admit, I'm not sure if she was serious or not, but it gave me an idea. Yes, there was a literal light bulb that appeared over my head (okay, maybe I turned on the kitchen light).
So here's what I came up with. The solution is simple... five outfits that repeat. A couple of weeks ago, during the rainy and chilly days... I cleaned and organized both my boys closets and dressers. My boys both have so many outfits. What happens is they wear them all, and the laundry grows and grows. Well, I chose 5 weather appropriate outfits for both (once it gets consistently warmer I will switch the outfits). I used to organize dressers by type of clothing: undies, shirts, pants. Well now I have a drawer for socks and underwear, one for PJ's, and one for the five outfits. This system also had a serendipitous out come. My husband can no longer say "what should I put on him?", and I have preselected outfits, so my boys don't come down stairs looking crazy, as is the case when my husband gets them dressed. This system is so simple that my 8 year old niece was able to dress my 2 year old. All I had to tell her was pick socks and an undershirt from the top drawer, and any pile from the middle drawer. 15 minutes later, she walked him downstairs fully dressed in a matching, weather appropriate outfit.
 |
| This is Little Bear's outfit drawer with four outfits ready to go ; ) |
 |
| This is Munchkins drawer, he is wearing one outfit and the other is in the hamper. |
How does this affect the laundry you ask? The laundry doesn't pile up because there are only five sets of clothes that get used. I've been using this system for 2 weeks now, and it seems to work. Now, I must be honest... my 7 month old does tend to make more. He's a spitter upper, so burp clothes and bibs pile up. There is also the occasional messy diaper or yogurt splatter on my Munchkin, but I am temporarily winning the laundry battle with my boys clothes.
What did I do with all their other clothes? The nice ones are hanging in the closet waiting for a party or other special occasion (I chose my favorite play/ everyday clothes for them to wear). All the other T-shirts and sweats are folded in a box. Once the season is over I will either donate them to a church, or save them for Little Bear (or any other new baby in the future).
As with any system, I am still working out the kinks... and reminding myself that it will not always work the way I hope... and that is totally okay!
Oh yeah, this is my laundry schedule
Sunday - Daddy
Monday - Boys
Tuesday - Mommy
Wednesday - Daddy
Thursday - Boys
Friday - Linens and Things
Saturday - Free Day : )
Oh yeah, this is my laundry schedule
Sunday - Daddy
Monday - Boys
Tuesday - Mommy
Wednesday - Daddy
Thursday - Boys
Friday - Linens and Things
Saturday - Free Day : )
Friday, April 8, 2011
Road to Uber Organization
I've decided to attempt to be uber organized at home. I think I am pretty organized to begin with. I plan meals a month in advance (well, most months). I have one cabinet designated to baby/toddler items and the shelves labeled with my trusty label maker. I have recently organized my cleaning supplies into tubs depending on their use. With that said, I'm ready to take it to the next level. My theory is if I organize even more than I can have time for everything, so far I feel like I haven't mastered this whole stay at home thing. I have been making the transition from working mom to stay at home mom for close to a year, and I feel like I haven't exactly gotten to the place I want to be.
Where do I want to be? Hmmm. I want to be there for my babies without having to use the TV as a babysitter (too often). "Be There" meaning homeschooling my toddler, creating healthy meals, and giving them an adequate amount of attention and cuddling. I want to be able to keep my house in order, by that I mean shiny, sparkling, and organized. I also want to be able to spend quality time with my hubby when he gets home, and have a tiny bit of me time for blogging, scrapbooking, reading... or vegging out in front of the TV with a glass of wine. Is this possible? In the past I have been able to do one of those things perfectly, but then something else suffers. I spent a week of playing with, teaching, and holding my boys. The result, a messy house. #FAIL. I spent a week cleaning, dusting, organizing, and disinfecting. The result a magazine clean house, but Munchkin watched TV all day and Little Bear sat in the bouncer most of the time. #FAIL. As for the me time... I haven't scrap booked in ages and reading is non existent, vegging out doesn't exactly happen since I typically multitask when I watch TV. #FAIL
The first thing I will do is create a master home binder. In my classroom I used a master binder that stayed on my desk. It included lesson plans, class info, grades, my calendar/schedule, master copies of frequently used worksheets, and a miscellaneous section. I plan on taking that concept and creating a master binder for home. I saw something similar on Want What You Have. I just have to figure out the sections I will use. The only thing I am certain that will go in my master binder is a schedule which will accommodate everything I mentioned above. Once I create my schedule I will post it here and move on to my next organizational task. Here I go!
Where do I want to be? Hmmm. I want to be there for my babies without having to use the TV as a babysitter (too often). "Be There" meaning homeschooling my toddler, creating healthy meals, and giving them an adequate amount of attention and cuddling. I want to be able to keep my house in order, by that I mean shiny, sparkling, and organized. I also want to be able to spend quality time with my hubby when he gets home, and have a tiny bit of me time for blogging, scrapbooking, reading... or vegging out in front of the TV with a glass of wine. Is this possible? In the past I have been able to do one of those things perfectly, but then something else suffers. I spent a week of playing with, teaching, and holding my boys. The result, a messy house. #FAIL. I spent a week cleaning, dusting, organizing, and disinfecting. The result a magazine clean house, but Munchkin watched TV all day and Little Bear sat in the bouncer most of the time. #FAIL. As for the me time... I haven't scrap booked in ages and reading is non existent, vegging out doesn't exactly happen since I typically multitask when I watch TV. #FAIL
The first thing I will do is create a master home binder. In my classroom I used a master binder that stayed on my desk. It included lesson plans, class info, grades, my calendar/schedule, master copies of frequently used worksheets, and a miscellaneous section. I plan on taking that concept and creating a master binder for home. I saw something similar on Want What You Have. I just have to figure out the sections I will use. The only thing I am certain that will go in my master binder is a schedule which will accommodate everything I mentioned above. Once I create my schedule I will post it here and move on to my next organizational task. Here I go!
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Blogger Mom
This blogging thing is getting to be addictive. It's a quarter to 11 and instead of watching my DVR'd recording of Glee, I am here reading blogs, researching how to make my blog better, and playing around with my blog. I have stumbled onto Mom Bloggers Club, and is it weird that I feel cool because I'm a Mom Blogger. Heheheheh... who'd have thought.
Like I said, typically I would be lounged in front of the TV or knocked out in bed by now, but we are trying something new to try and get little bear to sleep. For the last two days I've been waking him at 11pm for a bottle feeding, hoping that will sustain him for a longer period at night. Yes it has been close to 9 months since I have slept at least 5 consecutive hours, for at least a week. I know some of you may be thinking, WAIT! Little bear is only 6 1/2 months, but you must be the same people who haven't been prego or have forgotten the insomnia that accompanies the third trimester (but I digress).
I have lots of new ideas, tips, recipes, and random rants that I will be posting to my blog. I can not promise they will be coherent (see previous paragraph), but I will try to make them entertaining and as useful as possible.
Well it is 10:55 and I have to get Little Bear's bottle together! Until next time... Sleep tight, don't let the bed bugs bite!!
Like I said, typically I would be lounged in front of the TV or knocked out in bed by now, but we are trying something new to try and get little bear to sleep. For the last two days I've been waking him at 11pm for a bottle feeding, hoping that will sustain him for a longer period at night. Yes it has been close to 9 months since I have slept at least 5 consecutive hours, for at least a week. I know some of you may be thinking, WAIT! Little bear is only 6 1/2 months, but you must be the same people who haven't been prego or have forgotten the insomnia that accompanies the third trimester (but I digress).
I have lots of new ideas, tips, recipes, and random rants that I will be posting to my blog. I can not promise they will be coherent (see previous paragraph), but I will try to make them entertaining and as useful as possible.
Well it is 10:55 and I have to get Little Bear's bottle together! Until next time... Sleep tight, don't let the bed bugs bite!!
Friday, December 10, 2010
Pink Lemonade
Peace and quiet. I've earned it after a very hectic morning, and two late nights. With the help of Yo Gabba Gabba, the best kids show since Barney (nick jr. can send me my check cause I'm about to do a commercial) I love Yo Gabba Gabba, it offers me 20 minutes of quiet, of peace, of alone time. My son loves it for all the reasons a 22 month old loves things. It's bright, loud, and silly. As a bonus it reinforces the colors and numbers I've been teaching my munchkin. My husband and I must have about 20 episodes on the DVR. My peace is usually over after 20 minutes, I actually have a physical reaction when DJ Lance Rock says "Yo!.. It's almost time to go!" All the little characters say "Oh No" and so do all of the mommies and daddies.
Oh well, I'm off to have another cup of pink lemonade. I have about a half gallon left over from an unsuccessful open house. Life actually gave me lemons and I literally have been drinking lemonade : ). I've had it hot with honey (very good), hot with a cinnamon candy cane melting inside (pretty good too), and ice cold with a lemon slice (very good, but more suited for summer).
My open house didn't go as planned, but I'm still pressing on! I completed another facial. It went very well. The more I do, the better I get. I suppose that's a rule of life. I still love selling Mary Kay. I've promised myself I won't turn into the crazy Mary Kay lady that folks avoid, and so far I haven't. I've had a lot of fun with friends and family, and I've made some new friends. I especially love playing in my samples. I feel like a little girl playing in mommy's make-up.
Well, until next time.
Live your dreams!
Oh well, I'm off to have another cup of pink lemonade. I have about a half gallon left over from an unsuccessful open house. Life actually gave me lemons and I literally have been drinking lemonade : ). I've had it hot with honey (very good), hot with a cinnamon candy cane melting inside (pretty good too), and ice cold with a lemon slice (very good, but more suited for summer).
My open house didn't go as planned, but I'm still pressing on! I completed another facial. It went very well. The more I do, the better I get. I suppose that's a rule of life. I still love selling Mary Kay. I've promised myself I won't turn into the crazy Mary Kay lady that folks avoid, and so far I haven't. I've had a lot of fun with friends and family, and I've made some new friends. I especially love playing in my samples. I feel like a little girl playing in mommy's make-up.
Well, until next time.
Live your dreams!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)