Today I am taking a moment to stop and be grateful. Grateful that I have to go to the grocery store, buy birthday presents, work, take the girls to swim lessons and make an R2D2 costume.
As I drove the girls to camp this morning, there was an ambulance and fire truck at a house that we pass by daily. I don't know these people. I know that they have a wheel chair ramp and I've seen the wheel chair access van picking up and dropping off over the past few years. I've also seen a home health caretaker coming from and going to work. I have no idea who lives there - but somehow they are a part of my life.
After my grocery run I drove back by that house and the ambulance was gone. In it's place was the funeral home van. A car sat waiting to pull out of the driveway and a woman was wiping tears from her face.
How strange that I'm an accidental party to this life moment for a family I don't even know. Just small 5 second increments of casual observation. I'm sad that some one's life has ended. I think about what this Thursday is to them, versus every other regular Thursday. How their day differs from mine today. So I am grateful.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Am I A Bad Mom If....
There are a lot of things I could fill in the blank with...but today it's going to be this: If I don't enjoy being the parent on a field trip?
I'm too much of a control freak/worrier to let my child go under the supervision of a parent I don't know (I'm talking 4 year olds here).. so that means I go on all of them.
It's just so tiresome and eek, will I be stoned, if I say - annoying? You have to meet at the school and get the car seats and the snacks and the release forms etc..
Then you have to drive there. Find parking, walk blocks and through parking lots and hope you don't have a darter with you.
And then wait to go in. And kids have to go the bathroom and so do you. So you try to figure out the best way to help kids you don't know go to the bathroom and make sure you're not invading their privacy, and that they wash their hands and don't run off as you race to pee in the stall next them.
Then there's the play. Some are cute, some are annoying and I spend the entire time wondering what the actor's personal life is like. Do they have kids? Do they drink wine on Fridays? Are they those dramatic actor friends you like having come to your parties? Oh and I also spend the time telling small children to not stand up and to quit picking their noses. Today I had to stare down some beefy 5? 6? year old sitting in front of us that I wanted to just kick in the head. I did stare him down at one point. He was ballsy and stared me down back. Grr... I had to tell him to keep his hands to his own body please, as he stretched out purposely and was touching me and the kids with me. Like I said, wanted to toe him in the head. But of course I did NOT.
All the while I'm not 'enjoying the moment' as I probably should be, although I did spend a few minutes looking at the big smiles on my daughter's face as she laughed at the antics of a grown man dressed as a dog. Baby steps.
What I wanted was a big fat latte and to be able to cross stuff off my to do list.
I'm thinking I'm probably not a front runner for Mom of the year.
Next week: field trip for a ferry ride! Weeee!
Monday, January 31, 2011
Moms, Dads and Swim Boogies
Women are from Venus, Men are from Mars blah blah blah. It is proven time and time again that men and women just aren't cut from the same cloth. I have a prime example.
I have to preface that my husband is an amazing and involved Dad and he rocks. He just doesn't have all of innate Mommy-isms that I do. (Which of course makes me superior and insane. In that order.)
Sunday mornings our girls have swim lessons. While packing the swim bag (or adding to the one that Jeff already packed, again becuase he's good like that.) I added in some wipes. Because I had noticed that Riley had a bit of a stuffy nose that morning. And fast forward ahead to 4 y.o. in pool for half hour - there might be a swim boog situation. And the thought makes me gag.
Of course as we sit there watching, I can see with my laser sharp Mom vision half way through the lesson, that my daughter might indeed have a gross visible boog. It's only a faint shadow..but it warrants investigation. Jeff does NOT have these same concerns. I swoop in with my wipe in hand, confirm that indeed there is disgusting nose situation and take care of it. I apologize under my breath to the teenage teacher who has to be grossed about this element of his job (and if he's not, I am for him..) And none of this ever even crossed my husband's mind.
Natural Consequences Parenting
I have to be upfront and say I've never actually read a book or gone to one of those classes on natural consequences parenting. I just pretend I know what I'm doing.
This morning when my 4 y.o. wanted to take one of her prized sleep companions to school with her for nap time, I suggested that she not. Because I knew she would want that stupid pink fluffy bunny at bedtime and cry about it when it wasn't there. When she persisted and said she'd be okay with it, I agreed. Plus it's my husband's turn to put her to bed tonight. But really I thought it would be a perfect lesson in 'natural consequences'.
When we rolled home from school this afternoon, little Miss decided she was wanting all of her pink fluffy friends. When she asked for the bunny in question, I reminded her that she took it to school this week for nap. Of course then hysterics ensued. Lots of crying and whining. (It's not even bed time!) Yeah, she might be getting a lesson, but I have to put up with the nonsense and noise. I might develop my own style of parenting called "Mommy will be right, so lets just skip ahead 4 steps." I wonder if I could get a book deal..
Friday, January 28, 2011
Two Truths
You know I love to share the funny tidbits from my zany life. These made me laugh.....
* The large 'car cart' at the local grocery chain does NOT fit down the wine aisle. I tried. Why is that? I mean Moms with kids who fit into those damn things are more likely to be shopping for wine.
* I've made it to the stage of parenthood where I can embarrass my daughter. One of the teacher's aids, (who I know relatively well) was sitting in the parking lot before school jamming to a good cut. With the volume super high. Her car was bumpin. So when I got out of my car to drop my daughter off - I got where she could see me in her rear view and busted some dance moves. She laughed. Kate was mortified. I giggled. I am evil.
Happy Friday everyone!
Friday, January 7, 2011
Cheetos and Swimsuits
Happy New Year!
Yes, I am the one who knowingly smiles (scoffs?) at all the newbies in my 6:15AM core class. We call the new worker outers The New Years Resolutioners. However it's helping my own workout because I don't want that tiny blonde thing behind me to be able to do more reps with a heavier weight. So I'll try not to hate.
So this year I've set a new fitness goal. I'm going to 'try' a tri. Yes, a Tri-athalon. The Happy Meal sized one (smaller distances). That means I just had to sign up for swim lessons. I can swim, I just can't swim like I know what I'm doing. Oh and I don't own a bike. That's next on the list. I figure if I say it out loud, I'm bound by my own pride to follow through. Oh and I 'coincidentally' chose a race that is a month before my 20 year high school reunion. Yes, I am the queen of multitasking.
However I had to laugh at myself as I realized I had to dust the Cheeto dust off my fingers to type in the search words 'swimsuit' on the site I was on.
I love hearing what people have for goals for the upcoming year. Share some of the good ones you've created or heard!!
Yes, I am the one who knowingly smiles (scoffs?) at all the newbies in my 6:15AM core class. We call the new worker outers The New Years Resolutioners. However it's helping my own workout because I don't want that tiny blonde thing behind me to be able to do more reps with a heavier weight. So I'll try not to hate.
So this year I've set a new fitness goal. I'm going to 'try' a tri. Yes, a Tri-athalon. The Happy Meal sized one (smaller distances). That means I just had to sign up for swim lessons. I can swim, I just can't swim like I know what I'm doing. Oh and I don't own a bike. That's next on the list. I figure if I say it out loud, I'm bound by my own pride to follow through. Oh and I 'coincidentally' chose a race that is a month before my 20 year high school reunion. Yes, I am the queen of multitasking.
However I had to laugh at myself as I realized I had to dust the Cheeto dust off my fingers to type in the search words 'swimsuit' on the site I was on.
I love hearing what people have for goals for the upcoming year. Share some of the good ones you've created or heard!!
Friday, November 19, 2010
Shhh....... My Holiday Gift Shopping Finds!
I love shopping for gifts. Finding the right thing for each person. It's a passion and dare say an art of mine. Not that all my gifts are received with the same joy as they were picked out, but I try.
I'm pretty close to done with the Holiday shopping. I say Holiday because Jeff's family celebrates Chanukah and my family Christmas. This year Chanukah is early - starting on December 1st. So I had to get a move on!
I like to shop locally (and USA produced) when I can. I make a concerted effort. I buy from the toy store and book store downtown. HOWEVER some of the things I need, aren't to be found in my little village. Enter Amazon Prime. Did you know if you sign up for Amazon Prime (free two day shipping on any product that is fulfilled by Amazon) and cancel after 30 days - there is no annual fee? AND that if you're a new Mom they have Amazon Mom - free for 3 months. Let's just say Santa delivered his gifts in two days in some Amazon boxes. Done and done. All while sipping coffee at my computer. Love it!
Next up for my local peeps. Cotton Caboodle Outlet. I've long raved about this little gem of a store. 100% cotton clothing for kids and women. Most everything is under $15. I saw the same shirt that I got there for $15 at my friend's boutique for $50. FIFTY?!! So today I dropped in quickly to grab a specific shirt to go under my planned Thanksgiving ensemble - and what did I find, but some FANTASTIC fun cotton scarfs that screamed 'teacher gifts!' for $12. In regular retail stores they are $27. Mark those babies off the list!
XBox - Kinect Combo pack. 250gb (like I know what this means..)but on Amazon it was priced at $448 - hello Costco for $389! (Online looks like it was priced at $399). Yes this means I'm not getting that purse I'm drooling over - and my husband gets to skip getting 2 sweaters and a button down like every other year. Hopefully the kids will enjoy it and I'll embrace electronics. Website says they're sold out - but maybe they have more coming?! No you can't have mine!
So after you check off those lists - for me it means wrapping and shipping. I never can go wrong with my local UPS guy. I've actually had good luck in general with UPS - but the owner/manager? of my particular location is a superstar. Always SUPER nice. Most everytime I've had a coupon, or gotten a punch card discount. He doesn't get irritated when I can't remember the zip code to Brooklyn NY. And my packages always get there in one piece and on time. (Although I did have to ask him not to use peanuts...). If you're in my hood - give him a whirl! And unlike the post office, they'll tape up your boxes for you - NO extra charge!
Okay friends - do share - what are your favorite finds this season?!
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
The Art and Joy of the Letter
Anyone one in my near radius this past week probably knows that I just got a big box of 'memorabilia' from my parents who recently cleaned out their storage unit. Sorting through all the stuff in there has been fun and crazy - but one thing stands out. We wrote letters!
I have all kinds of letters! Letters from my friends when I was 11, my camp counselor, letters from my high school boyfriend, and my good friend and subsequent pen pal who joined the military shortly after we graduated, tiny notes asking if I could go to the movie, angry notes about why did someone do such and such during 5th period. I love it.
I forgot how much I LOVE a real letter! Love it. I love when you see your name on an envelope in the mailbox, or find a scrap of paper with a little message just for you. The tangible enjoyment of seeing a friend's handwriting cover a page in words - the time taken specifically for you.
So I'm bringing back the art of the letter. I've decided that over the next year I'm going take the time to write a real live letter when those memories or birthdays or whatever it is presents an opportunity.
Ah the joy of a letter.
I have all kinds of letters! Letters from my friends when I was 11, my camp counselor, letters from my high school boyfriend, and my good friend and subsequent pen pal who joined the military shortly after we graduated, tiny notes asking if I could go to the movie, angry notes about why did someone do such and such during 5th period. I love it.
I forgot how much I LOVE a real letter! Love it. I love when you see your name on an envelope in the mailbox, or find a scrap of paper with a little message just for you. The tangible enjoyment of seeing a friend's handwriting cover a page in words - the time taken specifically for you.
So I'm bringing back the art of the letter. I've decided that over the next year I'm going take the time to write a real live letter when those memories or birthdays or whatever it is presents an opportunity.
Ah the joy of a letter.
Friday, November 5, 2010
What's a better way of saying 'Ball-less'?
This one's going to be lengthy so buckle in.
I had a hard time titling this -but the anger is still fresh, so I'm not at my most eloquent.
Last night after having a whirlwind two days of working on a project with my friend (thanks Jefe for holding down the fort), I went through the mail only to find that someone had 'anonymously' sent my husband a pamphlet from Alcoholics Anonymous. It read something like 'Does your loved one struggle with alcohol dependency..' and so on.
At first I was puzzled and a little dismissive, until some investigation led to the fact that AA does not send out pamphlets unprompted. Someone had to send or ask for it to be sent. WTF.
I feel like I've been kicked in the throat. Seriously. I'm taking this PERSONALLY - and have gone through those stages of grief or acceptance or what not.. but I'm not yet to the laugh about it stage.
First of, yes, it's a given that I enjoy cocktails. Initially I wanted to defend myself, but I don't feel it necessary at this point. Marriage is a partnership and my rarely imbibing husband does not feel that my enjoyment of wine and spirits warrants any AA intervention. And while I have a very loud and direct personality, he is not fooled, nor scared of me and would set me straight.
Second of all - Of course I reflected back to the past couple of weeks just to see if there was anything in there that should alarm someone to the point of anonymous mail. I see a woman who quit her fantastic job to be more available to her family. One who still works very hard at her paying job along with volunteering in her kid's schools, signing up to bring treats and teacher appreciation salads. The one who was up late cutting out the pieces for her daughter's entire class to make 'Spider Hats' with. The one who tries really hard to make her guests feel welcome, and buys their favorite breakfast items and makes sure their sheets and towels are fresh and taken care of. The one who makes meals and does dishes for her family most every night of the week. The one who folds clothes and reads bedtimes stories and talks about what happened at school. The one who tries to make date night a priority for she and her husband. Who makes time to work out so I'll still be the wife someone wants to be seen with. The one who gets a big middle finger in the form of an anonymous pamphlet in the mail. How's that for a thank you?
Yes, I'm angry and extremely hurt (and curious as to how a true alcoholic would be able to pull together all the things that I have to do on a regular day while trashed.) As my8 years clean housekeeping lady said as I headed out the door for 6 miles - 'alcoholics don't run'. She would know.
So I say this out loud to anonymous worried person. Find some balls. Find a voice. Be direct. If you have TRUE concerns for my husband or my family (albeit misdirected) find some character and address it head on like an respectable adult should do.
Tonight I'm going to enjoy a glass of wine with my husband and silently toast all my sisters in arms who work their arses off for their families - and enjoy a glass of wine at the end of that never ending work day. Cheers.
I had a hard time titling this -but the anger is still fresh, so I'm not at my most eloquent.
Last night after having a whirlwind two days of working on a project with my friend (thanks Jefe for holding down the fort), I went through the mail only to find that someone had 'anonymously' sent my husband a pamphlet from Alcoholics Anonymous. It read something like 'Does your loved one struggle with alcohol dependency..' and so on.
At first I was puzzled and a little dismissive, until some investigation led to the fact that AA does not send out pamphlets unprompted. Someone had to send or ask for it to be sent. WTF.
I feel like I've been kicked in the throat. Seriously. I'm taking this PERSONALLY - and have gone through those stages of grief or acceptance or what not.. but I'm not yet to the laugh about it stage.
First of, yes, it's a given that I enjoy cocktails. Initially I wanted to defend myself, but I don't feel it necessary at this point. Marriage is a partnership and my rarely imbibing husband does not feel that my enjoyment of wine and spirits warrants any AA intervention. And while I have a very loud and direct personality, he is not fooled, nor scared of me and would set me straight.
Second of all - Of course I reflected back to the past couple of weeks just to see if there was anything in there that should alarm someone to the point of anonymous mail. I see a woman who quit her fantastic job to be more available to her family. One who still works very hard at her paying job along with volunteering in her kid's schools, signing up to bring treats and teacher appreciation salads. The one who was up late cutting out the pieces for her daughter's entire class to make 'Spider Hats' with. The one who tries really hard to make her guests feel welcome, and buys their favorite breakfast items and makes sure their sheets and towels are fresh and taken care of. The one who makes meals and does dishes for her family most every night of the week. The one who folds clothes and reads bedtimes stories and talks about what happened at school. The one who tries to make date night a priority for she and her husband. Who makes time to work out so I'll still be the wife someone wants to be seen with. The one who gets a big middle finger in the form of an anonymous pamphlet in the mail. How's that for a thank you?
Yes, I'm angry and extremely hurt (and curious as to how a true alcoholic would be able to pull together all the things that I have to do on a regular day while trashed.) As my8 years clean housekeeping lady said as I headed out the door for 6 miles - 'alcoholics don't run'. She would know.
So I say this out loud to anonymous worried person. Find some balls. Find a voice. Be direct. If you have TRUE concerns for my husband or my family (albeit misdirected) find some character and address it head on like an respectable adult should do.
Tonight I'm going to enjoy a glass of wine with my husband and silently toast all my sisters in arms who work their arses off for their families - and enjoy a glass of wine at the end of that never ending work day. Cheers.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
One Of Them Days
Gotta love a morning that starts off with sacrificing a pair of work out pants to catch the cat's puke so as not to christen the newly cleaned carpets. Work out pants that should have been working out at the 6:15AM core class. But weren't.
However - I have to shout out to the people who unknowingly make someone's day a little more fabulous. Case in point, as I was dropping off my car to get fixed at the body shop the receptionist asked if my hair was naturally curly. When I responded yes - she exlaimed "It's gorgeous!". Well thank you! What a way to start the day! I decided right then and there I'm going to be more conscious of saying the nice things I think. Emphasis on nice.
But I just have to make a note that when you encounter a company that makes your life easy - it is so fantastic! Collision Clinic here in my homstead checked me in - had the Enterprise rental car person WAITING to get me into the rental car that was on site. I was in and out in less than 15 minutes. It was a dream! I almost felt like when your husband comes homes with flowers and it's not an anniversary. Suspicious yet happy. I'm going to start keeping a list of fabulous companies like that. Oh wait Yelp does that. Well anyway -Collision Clinic you rock!
However - I have to shout out to the people who unknowingly make someone's day a little more fabulous. Case in point, as I was dropping off my car to get fixed at the body shop the receptionist asked if my hair was naturally curly. When I responded yes - she exlaimed "It's gorgeous!". Well thank you! What a way to start the day! I decided right then and there I'm going to be more conscious of saying the nice things I think. Emphasis on nice.
But I just have to make a note that when you encounter a company that makes your life easy - it is so fantastic! Collision Clinic here in my homstead checked me in - had the Enterprise rental car person WAITING to get me into the rental car that was on site. I was in and out in less than 15 minutes. It was a dream! I almost felt like when your husband comes homes with flowers and it's not an anniversary. Suspicious yet happy. I'm going to start keeping a list of fabulous companies like that. Oh wait Yelp does that. Well anyway -Collision Clinic you rock!
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Offspring Offerings
Funny stuff from the kid front
****
Me mumbling to myself as I throw the cat off the counter "Cats do NOT belong on the counter!"
Riley overhearing: "Or adults either. Kids are okay on the counter when they get hurt or something though."
****
"Kate! You broke my feelings! You broke them and I am very sad."
****
At the dinner table: "Watch, I can do the robot!" followed by a demonstration. I asked where she learned it - from her PE teacher? "No! From Choo Choo Soul"
****
Me mumbling to myself as I throw the cat off the counter "Cats do NOT belong on the counter!"
Riley overhearing: "Or adults either. Kids are okay on the counter when they get hurt or something though."
****
"Kate! You broke my feelings! You broke them and I am very sad."
****
At the dinner table: "Watch, I can do the robot!" followed by a demonstration. I asked where she learned it - from her PE teacher? "No! From Choo Choo Soul"
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Nostalgia Doesn't Always Fit
Nostalgia
The parentals cleaned out their storage unit - so that means I got a few boxes of 'treasures'. One of which contained my cheerleading uniforms from high school. In a fit of nostalgia and I'll admit, curiosity.. I thought for a moment 'I can wear my cheerleading uniform for my Halloween costume!'. Note to self: That was 20 years ago, pre children and you were a late bloomer. So the net result is that I will likely be running a tad harder today during my work out. And I still need a Halloween costume.
Savvy Shopper Alert
I've long known this, but it still makes me happy to buy my favorite undies (Hanky Panky) at Nordstrom Rack for half the price. Ahhh...
Happy Wednesday All!
The parentals cleaned out their storage unit - so that means I got a few boxes of 'treasures'. One of which contained my cheerleading uniforms from high school. In a fit of nostalgia and I'll admit, curiosity.. I thought for a moment 'I can wear my cheerleading uniform for my Halloween costume!'. Note to self: That was 20 years ago, pre children and you were a late bloomer. So the net result is that I will likely be running a tad harder today during my work out. And I still need a Halloween costume.
Savvy Shopper Alert
I've long known this, but it still makes me happy to buy my favorite undies (Hanky Panky) at Nordstrom Rack for half the price. Ahhh...
Happy Wednesday All!
Friday, September 3, 2010
WAHM: Job Description
As I'm nearing the one year mark of embarking on the job change - from full time in the office to a Work At Home Mom (gulp) I can't help but some days to wonder what the heck I signed up for. (Of course usually precipitated or followed by a fabulous day with my kids where I remember why I did this..) But today is not one of those days.
School has started for my youngest - and she's loving it. 1st Grade starts next week for the oldest - and I'll be loving it.
Today is the kind of day that I think Mom's should get bonus checks for. Oh wait.. we don't get paid.
7:45A - Email babysitter again to see if she can stay LONGER next week when I'm out of town, so that husband can go to soccer game. Confirm with two separate parents that they can pick up my kids from school.
8:15A - 3 y.o to pre school
8:20 - Run back to house to grab bike for 6 y.o. (so 3 y.o. didn't see it and wonder what fun we were having without her..)
9:00A - Meet friend for walk around Greenlake (yes, this IS fun..)
10:00A - Find snack for 6 y.o.
10:40 - Run to grade school to volunteer (and be super grateful for awesome friend who is at playground and offers to keep eye on 6 y.o.) (Check work email, pretend am always available at home office.)
11:40 - Find Jiffy Lube to get car's oil changed, so stupid get oil light will go away. (Check work email while at Jiffy Lube.) Thank Jiffy Lube worker for inferring I'm still in college. He knows you don't tip oil changes, right?
12:20P - Get lunch for 6.y.o. and hungry Mom
1:00P - Mow lawn so neighbors don't leave angry anonymous letters on our door. And because I am forcing my husband to go to in laws for the weekend and will not have time to mow said lawn. Feel sorry for self that have to mow lawn, but alternately grateful that I am getting some sort of work out since I pushed snooze on the alarm for spin class...
2:00P - Write blog, change laundry, find soccer shorts for 6 y.o., pack for weekend, figure out why house smells like cat poop
2:45P - Take Husbands laundry to dry cleaner
3:00P - Pick up 3 y.o.
3:20P - Clean house, sew pillow case for 3 y.o., feed children, find where cat is hiding (return work phone calls hopefully with very little background noise..)
4:45P - Take cat with gimpy paw to vet, pick up cat food
6:00P - Take 6.o. to soccer practice, and remember to bring PTA papers to hand off to Mom who lives in neighborhood
7:00P - Pick up enough pizza (and wine) for Pizza Friday with husband's brother and family
8:00P - Fight with children for an hour until they run out of excuses not to go to bed, and/or pass out
9:00P - Drink significant amounts of wine while trying to catch up on work emails and due dates, make large list of things must remember to do before leaving house at 8AM.
This will be the day my husband DOESN'T ask me what I did all day..
Gotta love it!
School has started for my youngest - and she's loving it. 1st Grade starts next week for the oldest - and I'll be loving it.
Today is the kind of day that I think Mom's should get bonus checks for. Oh wait.. we don't get paid.
7:45A - Email babysitter again to see if she can stay LONGER next week when I'm out of town, so that husband can go to soccer game. Confirm with two separate parents that they can pick up my kids from school.
8:15A - 3 y.o to pre school
8:20 - Run back to house to grab bike for 6 y.o. (so 3 y.o. didn't see it and wonder what fun we were having without her..)
9:00A - Meet friend for walk around Greenlake (yes, this IS fun..)
10:00A - Find snack for 6 y.o.
10:40 - Run to grade school to volunteer (and be super grateful for awesome friend who is at playground and offers to keep eye on 6 y.o.) (Check work email, pretend am always available at home office.)
11:40 - Find Jiffy Lube to get car's oil changed, so stupid get oil light will go away. (Check work email while at Jiffy Lube.) Thank Jiffy Lube worker for inferring I'm still in college. He knows you don't tip oil changes, right?
12:20P - Get lunch for 6.y.o. and hungry Mom
1:00P - Mow lawn so neighbors don't leave angry anonymous letters on our door. And because I am forcing my husband to go to in laws for the weekend and will not have time to mow said lawn. Feel sorry for self that have to mow lawn, but alternately grateful that I am getting some sort of work out since I pushed snooze on the alarm for spin class...
2:00P - Write blog, change laundry, find soccer shorts for 6 y.o., pack for weekend, figure out why house smells like cat poop
2:45P - Take Husbands laundry to dry cleaner
3:00P - Pick up 3 y.o.
3:20P - Clean house, sew pillow case for 3 y.o., feed children, find where cat is hiding (return work phone calls hopefully with very little background noise..)
4:45P - Take cat with gimpy paw to vet, pick up cat food
6:00P - Take 6.o. to soccer practice, and remember to bring PTA papers to hand off to Mom who lives in neighborhood
7:00P - Pick up enough pizza (and wine) for Pizza Friday with husband's brother and family
8:00P - Fight with children for an hour until they run out of excuses not to go to bed, and/or pass out
9:00P - Drink significant amounts of wine while trying to catch up on work emails and due dates, make large list of things must remember to do before leaving house at 8AM.
This will be the day my husband DOESN'T ask me what I did all day..
Gotta love it!
Friday, July 30, 2010
Arrrghhh Matey
I do a lot of running and so as to have goals and actually go out and do the running, I sign up for organized runs. And clearly, I did NOT get my fill of costumes and dressing up in high school drama. No, I force my running partner to wear whatever zany outfit I've thought up for all of our themed runs. I will say however, this zest for costumes netted us a $50 prize on the Urban Dare. Oh yes, our "Mama Said Knock You Out" wife beaters and black eyes were the bomb. So there.
So Dani and I are going to do the Torchlight Run on Saturday. Which of course means Pirate outfits. AND we did buy pirate hats when we were on our Spring vacation get away in Cannon Beach... so it's a natural. Having just finished the fancy bustiers or mid section thingys that pirate wenches wear - I was testing it out. Along with my handily scissored $4 t shirt that also looks all pirate wench like.
And then the pizza man knocked on the door.
As I scrambled to take off the pirate hat and pull off the striped tights that I was considering hacking up to look like pant things - I was trying to make it to the door in a timely manner.
As I was signing the slip and trying to man handle the baby cat who was escaping - I realized I was NOT wearing a sports bra, but instead a regular shiny silver one and it was definitely hanging out of my shirt all wench like.
And of course this isn't the night that I get the cool chatty driver with the big earrings in his ears who would laugh at my hi jinks - I get the probably out of work accountant. I don't even want to know what he was thinking I was up to. I'm sure he probably starting praying for me before he even pulled out of the driveway.
Arghh.
So Dani and I are going to do the Torchlight Run on Saturday. Which of course means Pirate outfits. AND we did buy pirate hats when we were on our Spring vacation get away in Cannon Beach... so it's a natural. Having just finished the fancy bustiers or mid section thingys that pirate wenches wear - I was testing it out. Along with my handily scissored $4 t shirt that also looks all pirate wench like.
And then the pizza man knocked on the door.
As I scrambled to take off the pirate hat and pull off the striped tights that I was considering hacking up to look like pant things - I was trying to make it to the door in a timely manner.
As I was signing the slip and trying to man handle the baby cat who was escaping - I realized I was NOT wearing a sports bra, but instead a regular shiny silver one and it was definitely hanging out of my shirt all wench like.
And of course this isn't the night that I get the cool chatty driver with the big earrings in his ears who would laugh at my hi jinks - I get the probably out of work accountant. I don't even want to know what he was thinking I was up to. I'm sure he probably starting praying for me before he even pulled out of the driveway.
Arghh.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Oh No! Kato!
I'm kind of sensing a theme to my blog...a lot of cat stories and children stories and rants about stupid people. Hmm.. perhaps I should try to diversify. Not just yet though.
So the house down the street is being forclosed. The family is selling their things and preparing to move out. And they have a cat. He is SUPER sweet. Has been since day one. Kato the cat. He roams the neighborhood, is clean and friendly and I think he's great. In talking with my in the know neighbor today I found out - the family is leaving WITHOUT the cat. They're just going to pack up and drive away. Like poor Mittens in Bolt. It's heinous. However - I don't know what to do about it! To me it's morally reprehensible to leave this animal that you rescued, or purchased or agreed to take home and feed and love.
The recently widowed woman next door to the family has been feeding Kato and enjoying his company. I think she even took him to the vet for some reason or another - but apparently does not want him as 'her cat'.
I'm sure he would be fed in the neighborhood, but I'm envisioning cold and snowy, wet nights with poor Kato cowering in a storm drain or being chased by racoons. No one to give him pets and let him sleep on their bed.
I can't volunteer for this job because we just got another cat. And if it were okay to just abandon a cat - Dexter is first up. But you don't see me with my bloodied legs and puncture wounded arms leaving my ornery cat (who's vet folder is 'RED' tagged as dangerous) on the street corner to fend for himself. No - I let him sleep next to me and I buy him expensive food because the vet said he needs it and I took on the responsiblity of him as my pet.
So I'm fired up! I'm going to see if I contribute to a cat vet/food fund if the neighbor would be willing to take him on. I've already thought up grand plans to build a cat house with insulated walls and a heat lamp for cold and wet winters that she can keep in her car port......
KATO!
So the house down the street is being forclosed. The family is selling their things and preparing to move out. And they have a cat. He is SUPER sweet. Has been since day one. Kato the cat. He roams the neighborhood, is clean and friendly and I think he's great. In talking with my in the know neighbor today I found out - the family is leaving WITHOUT the cat. They're just going to pack up and drive away. Like poor Mittens in Bolt. It's heinous. However - I don't know what to do about it! To me it's morally reprehensible to leave this animal that you rescued, or purchased or agreed to take home and feed and love.
The recently widowed woman next door to the family has been feeding Kato and enjoying his company. I think she even took him to the vet for some reason or another - but apparently does not want him as 'her cat'.
I'm sure he would be fed in the neighborhood, but I'm envisioning cold and snowy, wet nights with poor Kato cowering in a storm drain or being chased by racoons. No one to give him pets and let him sleep on their bed.
I can't volunteer for this job because we just got another cat. And if it were okay to just abandon a cat - Dexter is first up. But you don't see me with my bloodied legs and puncture wounded arms leaving my ornery cat (who's vet folder is 'RED' tagged as dangerous) on the street corner to fend for himself. No - I let him sleep next to me and I buy him expensive food because the vet said he needs it and I took on the responsiblity of him as my pet.
So I'm fired up! I'm going to see if I contribute to a cat vet/food fund if the neighbor would be willing to take him on. I've already thought up grand plans to build a cat house with insulated walls and a heat lamp for cold and wet winters that she can keep in her car port......
KATO!
Monday, July 19, 2010
Grocery Store With Children: My Kryptonite
I've found it. Having just returned from what was supposed to be a 'quick' run to the grocery store with my two girls - I am once again vowing to NEVER go assisted to the grocery store again. Ever.
Seriously. My two often well behaved children somehow just push my buttons the minute we hit a store. I would not typically take them with me, but when there is nothing to make a decent meal in the house and I've been stressed out cramming to get work done and know that I have to make lunches and be out the door in the AM - it calls for desperate measures.
After the discussions and negotiations as to who will sit or ride where, why children can't hang off the cart on one side as we roll down the aisle (sideswiping elderly people making our way past the bread is NOT okay..) there's always the urgent 'I'm going to have an accident' cry so that you have to high tail your cart back to the grimy bathroom and park it catty wampus hoping no one will think you've abandoned it. And the whining. I can't take it.
I seriously turn into that super mean Mom who finds fault with every move my child makes. After watching the stepping on of a box of crackers while we wait (as usual) at the deli I resort to the angry arm pull that could easily have someone calling for a CPS investigation. Along with that I pull out the angry whispery voice, vowing no cartoons or any sort of fun when we return home.
I'm frustrated and short tempered and just mean all the way around. I have to say THANK YOU to the store manager (who for the second time) sees my frustration and whisks my cart into a closed lane and checks me out in record time. I know she has kids and I am so so grateful to her for those Mom moves.
So I think I'll have to resort to my co worker's claim of preferring to go shopping at midnight than with children. And if it means that dinner consists of garbanzo beans and some kind conglomeration of pastas left in the cupboard. So be it.
Seriously. My two often well behaved children somehow just push my buttons the minute we hit a store. I would not typically take them with me, but when there is nothing to make a decent meal in the house and I've been stressed out cramming to get work done and know that I have to make lunches and be out the door in the AM - it calls for desperate measures.
After the discussions and negotiations as to who will sit or ride where, why children can't hang off the cart on one side as we roll down the aisle (sideswiping elderly people making our way past the bread is NOT okay..) there's always the urgent 'I'm going to have an accident' cry so that you have to high tail your cart back to the grimy bathroom and park it catty wampus hoping no one will think you've abandoned it. And the whining. I can't take it.
I seriously turn into that super mean Mom who finds fault with every move my child makes. After watching the stepping on of a box of crackers while we wait (as usual) at the deli I resort to the angry arm pull that could easily have someone calling for a CPS investigation. Along with that I pull out the angry whispery voice, vowing no cartoons or any sort of fun when we return home.
I'm frustrated and short tempered and just mean all the way around. I have to say THANK YOU to the store manager (who for the second time) sees my frustration and whisks my cart into a closed lane and checks me out in record time. I know she has kids and I am so so grateful to her for those Mom moves.
So I think I'll have to resort to my co worker's claim of preferring to go shopping at midnight than with children. And if it means that dinner consists of garbanzo beans and some kind conglomeration of pastas left in the cupboard. So be it.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
10-4 Little Buddy
My 6 year old has a great little friend who we found out when she started school - lives just down the hill from us. Sadly not like "walk down the path" down the hill, more like - bring your machete and battle rabid raccoons and 15 foot black berry bushes while traversing a steep incline, down the hill. But we're working on a solution.
So S - as I'll call her- had a birthday this week and Jeff thought up the fun idea of giving her half of a set of walkie talkies. I thought it was a fantastic and fun idea for 6 year olds and we made it happen.
Yesterday as I was feverishly working I kept hearing something from the play room - thinking it was that creepy puzzle that makes noises at random times, I finally got up to investigate. Oh no - it was S demanding to know where Kate was via the new walkie talkie.
Now from most little kids I can't tolerate bossiness but this little bit cracks me up. She's goofy, and huggy and ridiculously cute and her family and parents are probably some of the nicest people I've ever met.
So yes, I spent a good 5-10 minutes on a walkie talkie with a just turned 6 year old who was demanding to know when my daughter would be home and could I make it happen sooner.
And it's apparent that the telling time portion of kindergarten was not mastered before school was out, because even though I said 2:30 - there were multiple inquiries prior to that time. And I answered every one.
Over and Out Sister!
So S - as I'll call her- had a birthday this week and Jeff thought up the fun idea of giving her half of a set of walkie talkies. I thought it was a fantastic and fun idea for 6 year olds and we made it happen.
Yesterday as I was feverishly working I kept hearing something from the play room - thinking it was that creepy puzzle that makes noises at random times, I finally got up to investigate. Oh no - it was S demanding to know where Kate was via the new walkie talkie.
Now from most little kids I can't tolerate bossiness but this little bit cracks me up. She's goofy, and huggy and ridiculously cute and her family and parents are probably some of the nicest people I've ever met.
So yes, I spent a good 5-10 minutes on a walkie talkie with a just turned 6 year old who was demanding to know when my daughter would be home and could I make it happen sooner.
And it's apparent that the telling time portion of kindergarten was not mastered before school was out, because even though I said 2:30 - there were multiple inquiries prior to that time. And I answered every one.
Over and Out Sister!
Sunday, May 16, 2010
High Maintinence - Elevated to Code Red
If you know me, you know I'm a strawberry blondish frecklish mess. Of course that didn't stop me from oh say...1988-1997 -laying many a day on my fun island in the middle of the lake wearing baby oil and Sun In. (Of course all while listening to mixed tapes on my 'boom box'). And I may have hit a tanning bed or two while in my twenties (hello, there was one at my Ad Agency!)
So now as my 37th Birthday is rapidly approaching (gasp? what?!) I'm obsessed with trying to look young, stay young, prevent wrinkles and sags and what have you. I headed to the Dermatologist for my yearly "freckle check". Eegads. I know I have sun damage - and I wear SPF makeup (Laura Mercier -) but I do admit to being slow to put on the sunblock on a sunny day.. hoping for a little 'color' first. Um yeah. No more.
So she gave me the once over, said the thing I was worried about was nothing, but that she needed to freeze the two pre cancerous areas on my chest and face?! And is immediately holding some big spritzer of liquid nitrogen or whatever it is that they use to do that. Gulp! I could barely stammer that I had a social gathering to attend that night, before I was frozen and zinged and dazedly walked out with instructions to begin wearing hats, mineral sun block and come back every six months for checks.
So now my morning routine is getting WORSE as I get older.. not easier. I have to add 10 minutes for all the stupid lotions and liquids I have to put on to maintain any prayer of semi presentable bod.
When you get out of the shower (after having to do all those ministrations)- it's just the beginning; Deoderant (of course the uber strong enough for sweaty baboons kind), self tanning lotion for the legs (currently enjoying Jergens?! and it doesn't make me stink like fake tanner!) , toner for the face, Tend Skin for the bikini region (because why would you use anything else?), moisturizer for the face, SkinCeuticals (actually like this stuff) for the face, DIFFERENT sun block (that smells good and is like lotion) for the arms and shoulders and that's all before trying to pick out an outfit and put on make up - forget having time for decent hair!
How the heck do strippers do this? I mean this is just for one Mom - who's biggest social engagement of the day might mean a glass of wine with other Mom friends that evening. Or running into someone you know at the grocery store. All of this is completely lost on a husband - who has no clue or appreciation for this zaniness. And sadly, now that my mineral sunblock means NO color of any kind - I'm heading up pronto to get the latest sun less tanning lotion (Lancome Flash Bronzer-have seen rave reviews - will report back.) for my face and chest.. I'm thinking that the kids are old enough to learn to make breakfast for themselves... that will buy me a few more minutes? Right?
Sunday, May 9, 2010
"WWMSD" - A Mother's Day Dilemma
So instead of WWJD - which if you know me I think is absolutely ridiculous (there goes 2 of my 5 readers..) What Would Martha Stewart Do is what went through the head of my 'friend' today.
The scene: Mother's Day. Loving Mother had been busy taking small children to swim lessons and scrubbing the scum off the deck etc etc.. and had left a very small window of time to prepare a pasta salad for a 3:30 Mother's Day BBQ.
As this fabulous Mother was making lunch for her family - at the same time boiling pasta noodles so they would cool in time to make pasta salad, disaster struck.
The fabulous big red bowl (with a lid!) that held cooling pasta in the fridge.... jumped OUT of the fridge when the door was opened. Half of the pasta noodles hit floor. Oh no!!! There is no time in the schedule for this!! No no no! And the thought went through my 'friend's' head. Hmm.. floor was just cleaned. Pasta noodles can be thoroughly washed... WWMSD WWMSD WWMSD - What would Martha Stewart Do? I'm sure she would have thought ahead and made extra. Damn her. And if you watch Gordon Ramsey you know he'd rip you a new one if you picked ANYTHING off the floor, and rightly so. But those kitchens on TV are disgusting! And yes, this 'friend' of mine had taken many a food handler's permit classes - she knew the 'RIGHT' answer.. but what was the right answer for a frazzled Mom on Mother's Day who only had a short amount of time to produce a fabulous dish for a BBQ?
You my readers were not at this BBQ, so I can tell you this. She scooped them off the floor - almost within the '5 second' window.. and washed the heck out of them. And went thru them individually to make sure they were not truly polluted. And then she made a fabulous pasta salad. And took it to a BBQ. And fed it to her children, friends and total strangers. (and she ate some herself.) And she's totally okay with this. Right answer? Wrong answer? What have you done within the 'grey area' of appropriateness? You know she's not alone...
The scene: Mother's Day. Loving Mother had been busy taking small children to swim lessons and scrubbing the scum off the deck etc etc.. and had left a very small window of time to prepare a pasta salad for a 3:30 Mother's Day BBQ.
As this fabulous Mother was making lunch for her family - at the same time boiling pasta noodles so they would cool in time to make pasta salad, disaster struck.
The fabulous big red bowl (with a lid!) that held cooling pasta in the fridge.... jumped OUT of the fridge when the door was opened. Half of the pasta noodles hit floor. Oh no!!! There is no time in the schedule for this!! No no no! And the thought went through my 'friend's' head. Hmm.. floor was just cleaned. Pasta noodles can be thoroughly washed... WWMSD WWMSD WWMSD - What would Martha Stewart Do? I'm sure she would have thought ahead and made extra. Damn her. And if you watch Gordon Ramsey you know he'd rip you a new one if you picked ANYTHING off the floor, and rightly so. But those kitchens on TV are disgusting! And yes, this 'friend' of mine had taken many a food handler's permit classes - she knew the 'RIGHT' answer.. but what was the right answer for a frazzled Mom on Mother's Day who only had a short amount of time to produce a fabulous dish for a BBQ?
You my readers were not at this BBQ, so I can tell you this. She scooped them off the floor - almost within the '5 second' window.. and washed the heck out of them. And went thru them individually to make sure they were not truly polluted. And then she made a fabulous pasta salad. And took it to a BBQ. And fed it to her children, friends and total strangers. (and she ate some herself.) And she's totally okay with this. Right answer? Wrong answer? What have you done within the 'grey area' of appropriateness? You know she's not alone...
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Oh Noooo!!!! Uh Oh Moments for a 'Shoe Girl'
I love shoes. I love clothes. I love shopping. Yeah, yeah, I love my family and kids and sunsets and all that stuff to. But I really love shoes. Oh and purses, but this about shoes.
I've been on the hunt for a neutral wedge for summer.I toyed with the clog trend, but eh.. don't think that's going to do my legs any favors. I had a fantastic pair of Michael Kors I got two summers ago and it's time to retire them. Sadly. I love them. But if the adage is true that you can judge a girl by her shoe, then wearing these I am a schleppy, unkempt, banged up type of girl and I'm not okay with that.
I don't know 'exactly' what I'm looking for - but I know I'll 'feel it'. So today I swung by Nordstrom Rack for a quick drive by. There were some contenders and I was walking around doing the one shoe try on - when it hit. That moment. When I tried on a shoe and it was COMFORTABLE and I was excited by that. And I put back the sassy pump in my hand. And I envisioned myself grocery shopping in the comfy shoe. Oh crap! I was afraid this would happen with my career change - and I swore it wouldn't.
I almost texted a picture of the shoes in question - to my fashionista former co worker who is 20something. I needed a 2nd opinion - but was afraid to hear the answer.
So I am now the owner of a pair of shoes that I chose for comfort before fashion. And I'm sad about that. But I'm also am able volunteer for a Kindergarten field trip at the zoo - and chase after rouge 6 year olds without breaking my neck or having to break into my stash of mole skin.
So clearly, my next purchase will be some ridiculous pair of shoes just to prove that I am not fulfilling any dreaded sterotypes....
I've been on the hunt for a neutral wedge for summer.I toyed with the clog trend, but eh.. don't think that's going to do my legs any favors. I had a fantastic pair of Michael Kors I got two summers ago and it's time to retire them. Sadly. I love them. But if the adage is true that you can judge a girl by her shoe, then wearing these I am a schleppy, unkempt, banged up type of girl and I'm not okay with that.
I don't know 'exactly' what I'm looking for - but I know I'll 'feel it'. So today I swung by Nordstrom Rack for a quick drive by. There were some contenders and I was walking around doing the one shoe try on - when it hit. That moment. When I tried on a shoe and it was COMFORTABLE and I was excited by that. And I put back the sassy pump in my hand. And I envisioned myself grocery shopping in the comfy shoe. Oh crap! I was afraid this would happen with my career change - and I swore it wouldn't.
I almost texted a picture of the shoes in question - to my fashionista former co worker who is 20something. I needed a 2nd opinion - but was afraid to hear the answer.
So I am now the owner of a pair of shoes that I chose for comfort before fashion. And I'm sad about that. But I'm also am able volunteer for a Kindergarten field trip at the zoo - and chase after rouge 6 year olds without breaking my neck or having to break into my stash of mole skin.
So clearly, my next purchase will be some ridiculous pair of shoes just to prove that I am not fulfilling any dreaded sterotypes....
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