Night 1 wasn't as bad as I had anticipated it to be. Here's how it went:
10:45pm-Moo nursed to sleep.
11:00pmish-I fell asleep :)
12:00am- I woke up. N was fussing and tossing and turning.
12:30am- Moo woke up. N woke her up, actually, because of the ridiculous tossing and turning. Hubby's snoring probably played a roll in it, as did my anxiety over her possibly waking up.
I nursed Moo for a minute or so, and unlatched her before she fell asleep (but was groggy). She wasn't having any of it. She cried. A lot. Over the course of about 3hrs, she fought, cried, I sung to her, etc. Hubby decided to move to the couch. I don't blame him. About halfway through those 3 hours, I was feeling really cruddy (I almost never use that word, haha). I decided to take my temp, and had N (who was wide awake) turn on the light for me. I pulled out my old basal thermometer and I thought it said 106!! I thought that couldn't be right (battery was low, lol) so I pulled out the celsius thermometer. My fever was only 102, but since I was so out of it and dizzy (REALLY dizzy) I took some medicine. Back to bed, lights out, and continued with the "please sleep" fight with Moo.
3:50pm- Moo was finally asleep! I got her that way by rubbing her belly and singing a lullaby to her.... about 300 times.
I tossed and turned and finally fell asleep. Then hubby started snoring again, so I had to go to the living room and jostle him a little so he'd stop.
4:30- Moo woke up, largely due to the fact that big sister N was still tossing and turning and making a racket in her bed. BUT, she crawled over to me, laid across my chest, put her head on my shoulder, and started rocking herself to sleep! (I think she gets the big idea now!).
After she fell sound asleep, I laid her next to me. I then tried to sleep, but couldn't because our lovely cat Artemis kept sleeping on my head.
5:30ish- Moo woke up again. Wide awake and in a really good mood. I decided to call this the end of our "7 hours" (though it was only 6.5...) and nurse her. We're now up for the morning.
So in a nutshell, she woke up:
12:30am, 4:30am, and 5:30am.
We;re also trying to fix our sleeping patterns right now- but I'm fairly happy with how things went tonight. I got an hour of sleep and will be exhausted until naptime, but I think I'll survive!
Friday, December 31, 2010
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Adventures in Night Weaning
So, the time has come. I've decided to nightwean Moo, if she'll let me. She has been waking all night to nurse, constantly, and I'm far too exhausted to be mama in the mornings. My back has also been killing me from nursing her in a weird position ALL NIGHT, so it's time. We plan to implement Dr. Jay Gordon's method, since it is fairly gentle and I've heard great things about it. The first three nights, from 11pm-6am, I'm supposed to nurse her, but put her down awake and soothe her to sleep. Fingers crossed it doesn't get too ugly. She's a brutal little kiddo.
I'm also battling a cold.. so I must get to bed.
I'm also battling a cold.. so I must get to bed.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Happy Winter Solstice!!
It is only 2 something AM, so our Solstice festivities are not yet underway. Photos are still to come.
I feel such a warm presence around me, I feel incredibly spiritual and filled with light. Today is the solstice, and there was a total lunar eclipse (though I did not get to see it, Mother nature was being quite modest with her cloud cover tonight!). The energy I feel at the moment is very profound.
I have taken this time to meditate, nurse M, shuffle around the snow outside, and breathe in the cold winter air. I have reflected on the past year quite a bit and there are some definite changes I'd like to make in the coming year. I feel like I need to get closer to Mother Earth. I need to feel more grounded. The feeling I've felt tonight is a feeling that I last felt when my mother passed on.
Right now I am making the garland for tonight's (later!) solstice celebration. N told me that she wanted me to make garland for the tree outside, for the "Snow Angels". I've been stringing dried orange slices, apples, carrots, and raisins into garland for the "Snow Angels" to come and eat. We're also going to hang a lantern or two in the tree so the snow angels can find their way on the darkest day of the year.
Monday, December 20, 2010
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Here a MOO, there a MOO..
...everywhere a MOO-MOO!
Today we had a party for little M. She had a blast. Her actual birthday isn't until Wednesday (also the solstice!!). The party was quite large, but since we had one just like it for N's first birthday, I figured we'd do the same for Moo. She especially loved her cupcake from The Bleeding Heart Bakery. They're an awesome organic bakery who uses local ingredients and sustainable practices.. if anyone is in Chicago, I highly suggest you check them out. Their red velvet cupcakes are divine. I'm rambling..
The party was fun, I got to see a few friends (some old and some new!) and was overall wonderful.
Also, MOO TOOK HER FIRST STEPS TODAY! N didn't take her first steps until she was 14 months old. I'm very excited and oh so proud of my little one.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Whether the weather be cold...
...or whether the weather be hot,
we'll weather the weather,
whatever the weather,
whether we like it or not!
It's COLD! Granted, it could be worse, it's actually 25 deggrees out right now. Last night it got into the single digits, and I'm sure the temps will continue to plumet. Something is up with our furnace and it's not heating the house at all (I went and felt the side of it when it kicked on and it doesn't get warm at all!). I've got a space heater going and that's not exactly ideal. I might order another one from Amazon because this one isn't effectively heating the house. Without the space heaters it's between 55 degrees and 60 degrees during the day! The space heater kicks it up to about 70 and it makes all the difference, but it only heats one portion of the house at a time (so our bedroom are is significantly colder, and the bathroom and hubby's office are both around 50 degrees. Brr!
Anyways, Moo is having a big party on Saturday for her birthday. It's not very Waldorfy of us, I know, but it's a tradition that we have a big party for our children's first birthday. That said, all of the food will be home made (except for the cake, which needs to be quite large and I couldn't afford our local organic bakery) and the treats will be natural not toxic-laden ones. No real games, just a big activity table set up for kids to color and create, etc. It should be pretty fun :)
With that said, I've got to continue cleaning. I don't have much energy and want to curl up in a ball as it is FREEZING in here, but I think I'll survive!
we'll weather the weather,
whatever the weather,
whether we like it or not!
It's COLD! Granted, it could be worse, it's actually 25 deggrees out right now. Last night it got into the single digits, and I'm sure the temps will continue to plumet. Something is up with our furnace and it's not heating the house at all (I went and felt the side of it when it kicked on and it doesn't get warm at all!). I've got a space heater going and that's not exactly ideal. I might order another one from Amazon because this one isn't effectively heating the house. Without the space heaters it's between 55 degrees and 60 degrees during the day! The space heater kicks it up to about 70 and it makes all the difference, but it only heats one portion of the house at a time (so our bedroom are is significantly colder, and the bathroom and hubby's office are both around 50 degrees. Brr!
Anyways, Moo is having a big party on Saturday for her birthday. It's not very Waldorfy of us, I know, but it's a tradition that we have a big party for our children's first birthday. That said, all of the food will be home made (except for the cake, which needs to be quite large and I couldn't afford our local organic bakery) and the treats will be natural not toxic-laden ones. No real games, just a big activity table set up for kids to color and create, etc. It should be pretty fun :)
With that said, I've got to continue cleaning. I don't have much energy and want to curl up in a ball as it is FREEZING in here, but I think I'll survive!
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Back for business.
Well, after a brief hiatus, I'm back.
I had stopped to contemplate taking photos down. A few months ago I requested on facebook that family & friends not post photos of my kids on their pages. Most of those photos weren't OK'ed by me. Currently, I feel that yes, photos can be posted, but my permission needs to be attained before hand.
As for the blog, I have decided to continue posting photos here, as I normally have. I want my children to grow up knowing that photos of themselves matter, and being in a blog with stories about them, little vignettes, almost, is a great start. At least, in my opinion it is.
So. Updates!
My darling husband Jaime has gotten me a sewing machine! It was for our anniversary last month. I'm still learning to use it, but so far I have made Moo a pair of longies and N a pair of under-mittens from a felted wool sweater.
I may be starting an online business. Hint: has something to do with breastfeeding advocacy. Check for updates in the coming weeks!
I had stopped to contemplate taking photos down. A few months ago I requested on facebook that family & friends not post photos of my kids on their pages. Most of those photos weren't OK'ed by me. Currently, I feel that yes, photos can be posted, but my permission needs to be attained before hand.
As for the blog, I have decided to continue posting photos here, as I normally have. I want my children to grow up knowing that photos of themselves matter, and being in a blog with stories about them, little vignettes, almost, is a great start. At least, in my opinion it is.
So. Updates!
My darling husband Jaime has gotten me a sewing machine! It was for our anniversary last month. I'm still learning to use it, but so far I have made Moo a pair of longies and N a pair of under-mittens from a felted wool sweater.
I may be starting an online business. Hint: has something to do with breastfeeding advocacy. Check for updates in the coming weeks!
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Preparations!
It's good to be back into the swing of things!
I've been pretty busy lately. Tossing most of the kids toys due to lead meant only that there would be very few things for them to play with. I'm all for simple living and minimal toys, but this is seriously the bare minimum. I had to figure out what they'd be getting for their birthdays, and for Christmas (which all fall in the same week!). Since we're flat broke, I was only able to get a couple of things. The rest is up to me to make.
Right now, on the agenda for "creating", are playsilks, felted wool balls (though the cats keep stealing them, I'll get to that later), and a doll for M. I'm doing surprisingly well. I think that the doll, when finished, will end up being about 12-14". I'm not totally sure yet. I need to get some brown embroidery floss for her eyes, and I need to figure out something for the hair (I can't crochet so that's out of the question!). I also obviously need to make the body, but that shouldn't be too difficult. I'm using things around the house, and doing it all by hand. For the skin, I used a cotton knit crib sheet that I had laying around. The stuffing in the head is a lambswool sweater that I thrifted. The only synthetic material in the doll is the nylon stocking that I used for her head, but that's not too bad seeing that she's being created using only found materials!
Also in the works are preparations for N's 3rd birthday. I'm going to hold a very small party on her actual birthday, which falls on a Monday. We plan to dye playsilks with the kids, so I've got all that ready. I also need to come up with a "game plan" so that I can figure out how to make it short and sweet but still special for N. More importantly, I need to start trying out cake recipes for the big day. I might just do cupcakes, I have better luck with those! We shall see. Invitations need to go out in under a month, and I don't want to be thinking too hard about this during the weeks before Christmas because we have the Solstice, Moo's birthday (Which falls on the solstice!), Advent, and a ton of other things to worry about! I need to get everything set -now-.
Oh, and I need to make their birthday crowns.... eep!!!
Current nature table setup,not so many nature goodies as our cats have been rather mischevious!
I've been pretty busy lately. Tossing most of the kids toys due to lead meant only that there would be very few things for them to play with. I'm all for simple living and minimal toys, but this is seriously the bare minimum. I had to figure out what they'd be getting for their birthdays, and for Christmas (which all fall in the same week!). Since we're flat broke, I was only able to get a couple of things. The rest is up to me to make.
Right now, on the agenda for "creating", are playsilks, felted wool balls (though the cats keep stealing them, I'll get to that later), and a doll for M. I'm doing surprisingly well. I think that the doll, when finished, will end up being about 12-14". I'm not totally sure yet. I need to get some brown embroidery floss for her eyes, and I need to figure out something for the hair (I can't crochet so that's out of the question!). I also obviously need to make the body, but that shouldn't be too difficult. I'm using things around the house, and doing it all by hand. For the skin, I used a cotton knit crib sheet that I had laying around. The stuffing in the head is a lambswool sweater that I thrifted. The only synthetic material in the doll is the nylon stocking that I used for her head, but that's not too bad seeing that she's being created using only found materials!
Also in the works are preparations for N's 3rd birthday. I'm going to hold a very small party on her actual birthday, which falls on a Monday. We plan to dye playsilks with the kids, so I've got all that ready. I also need to come up with a "game plan" so that I can figure out how to make it short and sweet but still special for N. More importantly, I need to start trying out cake recipes for the big day. I might just do cupcakes, I have better luck with those! We shall see. Invitations need to go out in under a month, and I don't want to be thinking too hard about this during the weeks before Christmas because we have the Solstice, Moo's birthday (Which falls on the solstice!), Advent, and a ton of other things to worry about! I need to get everything set -now-.
Oh, and I need to make their birthday crowns.... eep!!!
Current nature table setup,not so many nature goodies as our cats have been rather mischevious!
Monday, October 25, 2010
M Has Lead Poisoning!
Last Friday, the kids went to the doctor for a checkup. I'm not one to do well-child visits, since we don't vaccinate, but I'm glad I followed my insticnts. M, who I call Moo alot now, is 10 months, so the decided to prick her finger and draw blood to check her hemoglobin and lead levels. No biggie. After about 20 minutes (the test only takes a few minutes) our wonderful doctor came back in to give us the news- her lead count was elevated, at 11. It's borderline, but not normal. They then sent us for bloodwork to be drawn from both girls via their veins, and I get the results tomorrow (eep!).
In the meantime, I've been stressing about where it's coming from. We've since found two sources- there is a lead water pipe that comes into our house- it's the first pipe that the water hits, and all of our water passes through it. We also found lead pain in one of the support posts in our basement apartment. We're hoping that these issues can be fixed quickly and effectively, but in the meantime, we've been taking alot of precautionary measures.
Bathing- Tonight, we started filtering our bath water. We each have to bathe out of a bucket, at let me tell you it is not fun. M is especially not fond of it. N didn't seem to notice a difference, but was glad she wasn't being bathed with "blood (lead) water".
Ingesting- We've also been filtering our drinking and cooking water.
Toys- I went with my instincts and bagged up all of our questionable wooden (Melissa & Doug and cheap Target brand) toys, and our plastic toys that I've been meaning to weed out.
There's just so much going on... I've been meaning to blog, but I really haven't gotten the chance! Anyhow, that's where things stand as of now and I'll be sure to update as we go.
In addition- if anyone has any Pur water filters that they want to get rid of, I'll take them off of your hands! I'm so so broke and we really need them. Thank you.
Megan
Monday, September 20, 2010
Ergo Giveaway!!
5 Vinez Monkeys is holding an Ergo giveaway! Check it out!
http://www.5vinezmonkeys.com/2010/09/ergobaby-carrier-review-giveaway-108.html
http://www.5vinezmonkeys.com/
http://www.ergobabycarrier.com/
We LOVEEE our Ergo but it has seen a little too much love!
http://www.5vinezmonkeys.com/2010/09/ergobaby-carrier-review-giveaway-108.html
http://www.5vinezmonkeys.com/
http://www.ergobabycarrier.com/
We LOVEEE our Ergo but it has seen a little too much love!
Friday, September 17, 2010
Apple Picking
We took the girls apple picking at a wonderful apple orchard about an hour and a half away. I couldn't find an organic one, but I didn't want to deprive N of the experience (she really wanted to go!). We finished up the day with some local honey sticks and all was good.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
We have teeth :)
Well, maybe not teeth, but one single tooth. That's right, M is working on her chompers :) Also, she has started playing "peekaboo". It's adorable and I'm very excited.
Poor N is very sick. She has a terrible cold and gunky eyes. I'm likely taking her to the doctor in the morning so we'll see how that goes.
On a side note, I need to find some patterns for wool slippers (for Madelyn) and for a winter hat (also for Madelyn). Her winter hat from last year isn't going to fit her this year. I might make a fall hat for her also- I'll have to see.
Poor N is very sick. She has a terrible cold and gunky eyes. I'm likely taking her to the doctor in the morning so we'll see how that goes.
On a side note, I need to find some patterns for wool slippers (for Madelyn) and for a winter hat (also for Madelyn). Her winter hat from last year isn't going to fit her this year. I might make a fall hat for her also- I'll have to see.
Friday, July 30, 2010
I'm back!
Phew! After an extremely long hiatus, I am back. It feels good. I have a new background in place and a lot to blog about. Get the eye drops ready, you may be reading for quite a bit!
I've been doing just peachy. Speaking of peaches... I ordered from a new company called Organics Delivered. Bad experience. I had the impression that they were a CSA and all produce would be local. For ~$40 something/box I was pretty happy. I got my first order on Wednesday. Everything was stuffed into a rubbermaid container. The guy wasn't in a delivery truck, he got the box out of his car or whatever and dropped it off. Strange. I got in the house, opened up my box, and found that my apples were bruised, bananas bruised, and tomatoes MOLDY! I also found that several items were those that were found at my local grocery store, and though they were organic, they were from big chain farms. I also found that many items weren't local- some as far as the Dominican Republic. I knew that when I opened the box full of apples, bananas, and mangos that it wouldn't be all local produce. Insert sigh HERE. :( SO I called the company and spoke to a customer service rep... She apologized and gave me $10 credit which will be refunded at the end of my trial. So that was a big flop. I'm likely going to see about finding an actual CSA around here (many have fall sign ups) that will also give me pastured eggs and maybe raw milk.
M is doing great, she's just about crawling now! She's still quite the boobie baby, she nurses all the time and we both love it.
Big sister N is also great, though we just hit the terrible twos (we thought they'd missed us!). She is also almost all the way potty learned, so that's great as well.
I kind of fell off with Waldorf- so we're jumping back on that wagon. I've been re-reading heaven on Earth and You are Your Child's First Teacher for inspiration.
Current projects? Coasters =P But other than that, nothing. Oh, I took the fram off of our bed so that I could lower the crib mattress.... who knows when miss M will start standing up! Our crib is sidecarred so this was very necessary! I kind of forgot about N's quilt- but we have plenty of time for that. It's still July, after all!
I've been doing just peachy. Speaking of peaches... I ordered from a new company called Organics Delivered. Bad experience. I had the impression that they were a CSA and all produce would be local. For ~$40 something/box I was pretty happy. I got my first order on Wednesday. Everything was stuffed into a rubbermaid container. The guy wasn't in a delivery truck, he got the box out of his car or whatever and dropped it off. Strange. I got in the house, opened up my box, and found that my apples were bruised, bananas bruised, and tomatoes MOLDY! I also found that several items were those that were found at my local grocery store, and though they were organic, they were from big chain farms. I also found that many items weren't local- some as far as the Dominican Republic. I knew that when I opened the box full of apples, bananas, and mangos that it wouldn't be all local produce. Insert sigh HERE. :( SO I called the company and spoke to a customer service rep... She apologized and gave me $10 credit which will be refunded at the end of my trial. So that was a big flop. I'm likely going to see about finding an actual CSA around here (many have fall sign ups) that will also give me pastured eggs and maybe raw milk.
M is doing great, she's just about crawling now! She's still quite the boobie baby, she nurses all the time and we both love it.
Big sister N is also great, though we just hit the terrible twos (we thought they'd missed us!). She is also almost all the way potty learned, so that's great as well.
I kind of fell off with Waldorf- so we're jumping back on that wagon. I've been re-reading heaven on Earth and You are Your Child's First Teacher for inspiration.
Current projects? Coasters =P But other than that, nothing. Oh, I took the fram off of our bed so that I could lower the crib mattress.... who knows when miss M will start standing up! Our crib is sidecarred so this was very necessary! I kind of forgot about N's quilt- but we have plenty of time for that. It's still July, after all!
Friday, May 28, 2010
Busy as a Bee
I have been incredibly busy!
It has been so nice outside and I've been enjoying the weather with the family. Here's some of what's been going on...
We have made a new discovery! Twice last week we have gone on nature walks at a fabulous nature trail. This is at the same park where N goes to gymnastics. What a treasure! N could just spend hours gazing into the water looking for frogs, collecting pine cones or picking wild flowers. Daddy and N decided to chase butterflies and N enjoyed it so much! I just love having a place where we can get away from hectic city life and enjoy nature!
I'm still working on our quilt..
My garden is making progress. No harvests yet, but I'm growing cucumbers, strawberries, squash, eggplant, bell peppers, lettuce, green onions, and radishes. Today I have to pick up some dirt for the raised garden bed so I can finally transplant everything.
Today we're also going to take a trip to Hanna Andersson because N really needs a bucket hat for summer... She's the size of a 3yo so it's pretty hard to find hats in her size! I already checked the thrift store, and nothing.. though I did find a few hats for M as well as a bunch of treasures.... I'll post about those sometime soon!
It has been so nice outside and I've been enjoying the weather with the family. Here's some of what's been going on...
We have made a new discovery! Twice last week we have gone on nature walks at a fabulous nature trail. This is at the same park where N goes to gymnastics. What a treasure! N could just spend hours gazing into the water looking for frogs, collecting pine cones or picking wild flowers. Daddy and N decided to chase butterflies and N enjoyed it so much! I just love having a place where we can get away from hectic city life and enjoy nature!
I'm still working on our quilt..
My garden is making progress. No harvests yet, but I'm growing cucumbers, strawberries, squash, eggplant, bell peppers, lettuce, green onions, and radishes. Today I have to pick up some dirt for the raised garden bed so I can finally transplant everything.
Today we're also going to take a trip to Hanna Andersson because N really needs a bucket hat for summer... She's the size of a 3yo so it's pretty hard to find hats in her size! I already checked the thrift store, and nothing.. though I did find a few hats for M as well as a bunch of treasures.... I'll post about those sometime soon!
Friday, May 14, 2010
You Spin Me Right Round, Baby..
...Right round, like a record, baby, right round, round, round...
M has learned how to roll BOTH ways :) I just had to update that!
Also, we're having our garage sale tomorrow so I'm super excited about it.. not to mention exhausted from preparing! And I'm tempted to take a "before" picture to show you all just how much clutter we had!
M has learned how to roll BOTH ways :) I just had to update that!
Also, we're having our garage sale tomorrow so I'm super excited about it.. not to mention exhausted from preparing! And I'm tempted to take a "before" picture to show you all just how much clutter we had!
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
A random update of sorts...
I haven't had much time to blog this past week- I apologize. It's already Wednesday! Here's what's been going on with us.
M has been inching her way closer to rolling over, and we expect it any day now. She's very strong, she pushes her play gym over from above her and it ends up along side her. Kind of confusing, I know, but it amazes me every time. She's currently on the living room floor trying to roll over towards me. She also hasn't started eating solid foods, she's still exclusively breastfed. She is starting to get more and more interested in dinnertime though, and shrieks until I hold her on my lap. The other day we had some avocado at dinner and I dipped my finger in it and gave her a little lick. She didn't love it or hate it. We're still waiting until after 6 months to officially start solids with her, and will most likely be doing "Baby Led Weaning". No, that's not weaning from the breast, it's just weaning onto solid foods.
N has been her usual effervescent self. There is nothing much to report!
As for Jaime and I, we're having a garage sale this weekend. I'm going to be pretty busy pricing things ahead of time. I need to do this because I'd really like to go to Chicago Waldorf School's May Faire, which is coincidentally on the same day. I'm planning to stay there for only an hour, but I'm afraid I'll love it too much and won't want to leave! They're also going to have local vendors and a rummage sale! I really want to go!
Anywho- that's what we're up to!
M has been inching her way closer to rolling over, and we expect it any day now. She's very strong, she pushes her play gym over from above her and it ends up along side her. Kind of confusing, I know, but it amazes me every time. She's currently on the living room floor trying to roll over towards me. She also hasn't started eating solid foods, she's still exclusively breastfed. She is starting to get more and more interested in dinnertime though, and shrieks until I hold her on my lap. The other day we had some avocado at dinner and I dipped my finger in it and gave her a little lick. She didn't love it or hate it. We're still waiting until after 6 months to officially start solids with her, and will most likely be doing "Baby Led Weaning". No, that's not weaning from the breast, it's just weaning onto solid foods.
N has been her usual effervescent self. There is nothing much to report!
As for Jaime and I, we're having a garage sale this weekend. I'm going to be pretty busy pricing things ahead of time. I need to do this because I'd really like to go to Chicago Waldorf School's May Faire, which is coincidentally on the same day. I'm planning to stay there for only an hour, but I'm afraid I'll love it too much and won't want to leave! They're also going to have local vendors and a rummage sale! I really want to go!
Anywho- that's what we're up to!
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Ten things...
In honor of tomorrow being mother's day, I'd like to post ten things I remember/loved about my mom. Feel free to join me, fellow bloggers.
1. I remember how you used to leave jelly bean trails all around the house on Easter morning.
2. I remember when you'd get all inspired from cooking and start doing Julia Child impressions!
3. I remember you used to wash my toes at bathtime and sing "squishy squishy squishy in the toes-ies!"
4. I remember when you took me to that store, Chica's Secret, just because you wanted to spoil me.
5. I remember all of the fun birthday parties you threw for me!
6. I remember all of the support you gave me during my school years.
7. I remember how you would put together everything for fund raisers for school (book fair, taffy apples, thillens softball, fun fair)
8. I remember when you would take me to the beach when I was little.
9. I remember how you used to yell at the television when the Bears played, and would pretend to speak Chinese in order for me not to learn swear words.
10. I remember all of the hugs and kisses you gave, and the compassion and kind words for me that you had. I love you mom, and I think of you every day.
1. I remember how you used to leave jelly bean trails all around the house on Easter morning.
2. I remember when you'd get all inspired from cooking and start doing Julia Child impressions!
3. I remember you used to wash my toes at bathtime and sing "squishy squishy squishy in the toes-ies!"
4. I remember when you took me to that store, Chica's Secret, just because you wanted to spoil me.
5. I remember all of the fun birthday parties you threw for me!
6. I remember all of the support you gave me during my school years.
7. I remember how you would put together everything for fund raisers for school (book fair, taffy apples, thillens softball, fun fair)
8. I remember when you would take me to the beach when I was little.
9. I remember how you used to yell at the television when the Bears played, and would pretend to speak Chinese in order for me not to learn swear words.
10. I remember all of the hugs and kisses you gave, and the compassion and kind words for me that you had. I love you mom, and I think of you every day.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Childhood is Beautiful
I haven't put up any photos in awhile, so I figured I'd take this time out to share some.
N in her May Day crown on May Day
M and I after nursing on the front porch, enjoying the breeze. I adore those longies!
My big girl N playing with her sidewalk chalk.
This was originally a random picture, but I inadverdantly captured N yelling at the wind for blowing her hair in her face!
We love dirty faces and bare feet!
And finally, my latest work in progress (though it is now completed). 'Tis a secret, as it is someone's birthday gift :)
N in her May Day crown on May Day
M and I after nursing on the front porch, enjoying the breeze. I adore those longies!
My big girl N playing with her sidewalk chalk.
This was originally a random picture, but I inadverdantly captured N yelling at the wind for blowing her hair in her face!
We love dirty faces and bare feet!
And finally, my latest work in progress (though it is now completed). 'Tis a secret, as it is someone's birthday gift :)
Three years without you, but you'll never be forgotten.
Three years ago today I lost somebody very dear to my heart. A very close friend. Possibly the best friend that I would ever have. My mother.
I suppose I'll take this time out to tell her story. Actually, I'll let her tell them to you. These are her own words, taken from this website.
Through Hell and Back - A Few Times
by Tammy McDermott
14 January 2006
Hello, My name is Tammy and this is my story. I am a 46 year old woman. At the age of 16 (back in 1976) I suffered a massive stroke, underwent brain surgery, was comatose for 3 months and awoke to find my life totally changed. I lost my speech and my right side was totally paralyzed. After several months of rehabilitaion, I regained full speech, learned to walk with a cane and a leg brace but my right arm remained totally paralyzed. I was so young and determined that I have been able to live a "normal" life.
I soon tossed aside the cane and found "disco dancing" to be my favorite passtime. I learned to do EVERYTHING with one hand. I never felt sorry for myself and I became a very independent lady.
Ten years after my sudden "stroke", my doctor told me of a new scan that he thought would be beneficial for me. I had the MRI scan of my brain. Finally, I had found out what caused my massive stroke at the age of 16. It was an AVM. And, IT WAS STILL THERE!!! I totally freaked out. Very little was known about AVM's at that time, but my doctor said that I would most likely be okay with no futher treament. I was told that the only things that may cause concern for another bleed would be developing high blood pressure or becoming pregnant. Since I had been healthy for 10 years, I agreed with the doctor and had no further treatment.
Then, in 1989, I became pregnant. After the joy of knowing that I would have a child, I remembered what I had been told of the risk of having another AVM bleed. My neurologist at Loyola Medical Center in Maywood, IL. suggested that I be followed by high-risk OBGYN's. My pregnancy was uneventful and I delivered by C-section. I was very happy and had a healthy, beautiful baby girl.
Everything remained the same with my health. I was overjoyed. Then in 2004, I had a MRI scan for a routine check at another hospital. My doctor who is an internist consulted with a Neurologist who felt that the size of the AVM was too dangerous to go untreated. I was referred to a specialst at the University of Illinois Medical Center in Chicago, IL. He did not have my earlier 1986 MRI scan to compare to the later MRI scan. So, it was difficult to gauge if the AVM had grown. But, due to the size of the AVM, he felt that treatments should begin. The AMV was very large and required embollization treatments before it could be removed. So, he referred me to another specailist to proceed with that first step. The first embollization went smoothly, no problems. The second went smoothly, no problems. The third, well, there was a problem.
The morning following the 3rd embollization, I had a mild stroke. My speech was affected, but it was back to normal within 2 days. Thank goodness. I knew the risks of having the treatments. But now, facing a fourth embollization, I was scared. Very scared. Only 40 percent of my AVM had been removed. I was unsure of continuing the procedures.
My daughter was to start high school in 2 weeks and there was much to be done in that regard. I am single parent. I'm very fortunate to be engaged to a wonderful man. We have been together for 7 years. My daughter's father has not been a constant in her life, so I was concerned that if something were to go seriously wrong with the following embollization proceedures, what would happen to my daughter?
Before I even made a decission about continuing the embollization procedures, I had another massive bleed.
I awoke one morning in late August, 2004, I sat in the kitchen drinking my morning coffee and paying bills. Nick left for work and my daughter was on the computer. I began to feel a bit sick to my stomach and had a slight headache. I decided to lay down. I woke up several weeks later in a hopital bed at the University of Illinois Medical Center.
My daughter heard me making strange noises after I had laid down that morning. When she came to check on me, I was vomiting and non-responsive. She called Nick at work and called an ambulance.
I was rushed to Swedish Covenant Hospital, where Nick and my daughter were told that I would most likely not make it thru the night. My doctor had me transferred to University of Illinois Medical Center where I had the embollization proceedures done. Much differently than my 1976 bleed, I did not have a crainiotomy to remove the blood clot. I had an EVD inserted in my brain to drain the blood.
This bleed created a new set of problems for me. Physically, I am okay - no added paralysis. However, I now have and added "invisable" disability. I am unable to drive as I lose my focus. I am unable to prepare meals that have many steps, unless I have all steps written out, ingredients measured out, a timer and a pen to check off completed steps. Even then it is difficult. My coordination is improving, however I still have a hard time writing, applying make-up and I tend to lose my footing easily. Nick gives me my medication each day, as I get confused with it. This bleed created many more problems than the first.
I try to remain positive about everything. I have always had a good outlook on life. We must play the hand we are dealt.
One more thing, when I had this last AVM bleed, I was diagnosed with stage 2 non small cell lung cancer. A portion of my left lung was removed along with 2 lymph nodes. After 3 months in the hospital, I went home, started outpatient chemotherapy followed by outpatient radiation therapy. Six months later, a PET scan indicated that my cancer was gone.
So, here I am. I've been through hell and back - a few times. I am still weak from the AVM bleed and lung cancer therapies. My plan is to begin therapy for physical, occupational, speech (for cognitive development) and psychological counseling in Spring 2006. And, I have decided not to continue with the embollization treatments for my AVM. As I see it, if it bleeds, it bleeds. I am done tempting fate.
We must remember to focus on our strengths, not our weaknesses - on our abilities, not our disabilities.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Update: 28 June 2006
For those of you who do not know, my lung cancer is back, and it is terminal. The doc's do not have a time frame for me. Could be two more weeks. Could be two more months, Could be two more years. They just don't know.
Since the cancer has returned in the same lung, more chemo and radiation are not possible. There are two new drugs that may be beneficial, but due to my AVM (brain problem linked in my AOL profile) the new drugs may be more dangerous than beneficial to my health.
I am saying two more years. Megan has two more years of High School. That'll be good for me. I have to be here to see my intelligent, beautiful daughter graduate from high school and move on to college.
For those of you who know Nick, he needs your support and strength, now more than ever. The poor guy is keeping a smile on his face, and being the usual wisecracker that I love, but he is being torn apart with this situation. Please, reach out to him.
I have lived a good life. Until I met Nick, I thought that my marriage was the best thing that my life had to offer me. Boy, was I wrong. Nick has been the most uplifting, wonderful addition to my life - and to my daughter's. That man was sent to me from heaven. I thank God for him.
Please keep my family in your prayers.
You have all enriched my life. Thank you.
After that, all is a jumble. We soon found out that her cancer had come back- this time, it was in the bones in her leg. She had a metal rod put in and the cancer removed. About a month later, Nick (my stepdad) and I found my mom laying in bed, and she seemed to be having a stroke. We took her to the hospital, where she had a CT scan. Her cancer had spread to her brain. The tumors were putting pressure on her brain, causing the stroke-like reaction. We were told she had six months.
Mom had another brain surgery, and one of the tumors was removed. The other remained, chemo or radiation was done, and it was gone. She was then put into a rehab facility. She remained there for two weeks. We continued to watch her health decline. We knew the cancer had spread. She could no longer speak because of the toll the radiation had done on her vocal chords. We fed her ice cream and ice chips- it was all she could eat. On May 6, 2007, I revealed to her that I was expecting a baby in December. Long story short, I, at the age of 16, was trying to concieve a grandchild for my mother with my now-husband. She cried, and asked me if I was okay. I promised her that I'd make a doctor's appointment, and that was her dying wish. I made that apointment. I pushed her around in her wheelchair, and let her enjoy the view of the gardens at the rehab center.
The next day, after school (I was a junior in high school at the time), I got a call from my stepdad, who was with her. He was crying, and passed the phone to the doctor. She told me that I needed to get there quick- they were transferring her back to the University of Illinois at Chicago, where she had her cancer treatment, and that things didn't look good. I hopped my butt on a train and went straight there.
When I got there, I saw my mom. She was peaceful, but it was scary. I told her I loved her, I kissed her and told her that everything would be okay. I told her I made my doctor's appointment. I kissed her again, and left her for the very last time. I went downstairs with nick to get some coffee. When we returned, the doctor informed us that my mother had passed away. I was heartbroken, I cried, let out a few obscenities,and hugged my stepdad (he needed a hug more than I did). They all went in to see my mom one last time. I refused. I was happy that I said goodbye to her, and in a way, I felt like she said goodbye back. She was peaceful.
Later that year, I gave birth to my first daughter in that very same hospital. I felt that a piece of my mother was with her.
So here's to you mom. The one who held my hand. The former President of the PTO who busted her ass to make my school nice. The one who taught me so much, my backbone. Never does a day go by that I don't think of you, that I don't remember you hollering my name. I remember so much, and I will never forget.
I suppose I'll take this time out to tell her story. Actually, I'll let her tell them to you. These are her own words, taken from this website.
Through Hell and Back - A Few Times
by Tammy McDermott
14 January 2006
Hello, My name is Tammy and this is my story. I am a 46 year old woman. At the age of 16 (back in 1976) I suffered a massive stroke, underwent brain surgery, was comatose for 3 months and awoke to find my life totally changed. I lost my speech and my right side was totally paralyzed. After several months of rehabilitaion, I regained full speech, learned to walk with a cane and a leg brace but my right arm remained totally paralyzed. I was so young and determined that I have been able to live a "normal" life.
I soon tossed aside the cane and found "disco dancing" to be my favorite passtime. I learned to do EVERYTHING with one hand. I never felt sorry for myself and I became a very independent lady.
Ten years after my sudden "stroke", my doctor told me of a new scan that he thought would be beneficial for me. I had the MRI scan of my brain. Finally, I had found out what caused my massive stroke at the age of 16. It was an AVM. And, IT WAS STILL THERE!!! I totally freaked out. Very little was known about AVM's at that time, but my doctor said that I would most likely be okay with no futher treament. I was told that the only things that may cause concern for another bleed would be developing high blood pressure or becoming pregnant. Since I had been healthy for 10 years, I agreed with the doctor and had no further treatment.
Then, in 1989, I became pregnant. After the joy of knowing that I would have a child, I remembered what I had been told of the risk of having another AVM bleed. My neurologist at Loyola Medical Center in Maywood, IL. suggested that I be followed by high-risk OBGYN's. My pregnancy was uneventful and I delivered by C-section. I was very happy and had a healthy, beautiful baby girl.
Everything remained the same with my health. I was overjoyed. Then in 2004, I had a MRI scan for a routine check at another hospital. My doctor who is an internist consulted with a Neurologist who felt that the size of the AVM was too dangerous to go untreated. I was referred to a specialst at the University of Illinois Medical Center in Chicago, IL. He did not have my earlier 1986 MRI scan to compare to the later MRI scan. So, it was difficult to gauge if the AVM had grown. But, due to the size of the AVM, he felt that treatments should begin. The AMV was very large and required embollization treatments before it could be removed. So, he referred me to another specailist to proceed with that first step. The first embollization went smoothly, no problems. The second went smoothly, no problems. The third, well, there was a problem.
The morning following the 3rd embollization, I had a mild stroke. My speech was affected, but it was back to normal within 2 days. Thank goodness. I knew the risks of having the treatments. But now, facing a fourth embollization, I was scared. Very scared. Only 40 percent of my AVM had been removed. I was unsure of continuing the procedures.
My daughter was to start high school in 2 weeks and there was much to be done in that regard. I am single parent. I'm very fortunate to be engaged to a wonderful man. We have been together for 7 years. My daughter's father has not been a constant in her life, so I was concerned that if something were to go seriously wrong with the following embollization proceedures, what would happen to my daughter?
Before I even made a decission about continuing the embollization procedures, I had another massive bleed.
I awoke one morning in late August, 2004, I sat in the kitchen drinking my morning coffee and paying bills. Nick left for work and my daughter was on the computer. I began to feel a bit sick to my stomach and had a slight headache. I decided to lay down. I woke up several weeks later in a hopital bed at the University of Illinois Medical Center.
My daughter heard me making strange noises after I had laid down that morning. When she came to check on me, I was vomiting and non-responsive. She called Nick at work and called an ambulance.
I was rushed to Swedish Covenant Hospital, where Nick and my daughter were told that I would most likely not make it thru the night. My doctor had me transferred to University of Illinois Medical Center where I had the embollization proceedures done. Much differently than my 1976 bleed, I did not have a crainiotomy to remove the blood clot. I had an EVD inserted in my brain to drain the blood.
This bleed created a new set of problems for me. Physically, I am okay - no added paralysis. However, I now have and added "invisable" disability. I am unable to drive as I lose my focus. I am unable to prepare meals that have many steps, unless I have all steps written out, ingredients measured out, a timer and a pen to check off completed steps. Even then it is difficult. My coordination is improving, however I still have a hard time writing, applying make-up and I tend to lose my footing easily. Nick gives me my medication each day, as I get confused with it. This bleed created many more problems than the first.
I try to remain positive about everything. I have always had a good outlook on life. We must play the hand we are dealt.
One more thing, when I had this last AVM bleed, I was diagnosed with stage 2 non small cell lung cancer. A portion of my left lung was removed along with 2 lymph nodes. After 3 months in the hospital, I went home, started outpatient chemotherapy followed by outpatient radiation therapy. Six months later, a PET scan indicated that my cancer was gone.
So, here I am. I've been through hell and back - a few times. I am still weak from the AVM bleed and lung cancer therapies. My plan is to begin therapy for physical, occupational, speech (for cognitive development) and psychological counseling in Spring 2006. And, I have decided not to continue with the embollization treatments for my AVM. As I see it, if it bleeds, it bleeds. I am done tempting fate.
We must remember to focus on our strengths, not our weaknesses - on our abilities, not our disabilities.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Update: 28 June 2006
For those of you who do not know, my lung cancer is back, and it is terminal. The doc's do not have a time frame for me. Could be two more weeks. Could be two more months, Could be two more years. They just don't know.
Since the cancer has returned in the same lung, more chemo and radiation are not possible. There are two new drugs that may be beneficial, but due to my AVM (brain problem linked in my AOL profile) the new drugs may be more dangerous than beneficial to my health.
I am saying two more years. Megan has two more years of High School. That'll be good for me. I have to be here to see my intelligent, beautiful daughter graduate from high school and move on to college.
For those of you who know Nick, he needs your support and strength, now more than ever. The poor guy is keeping a smile on his face, and being the usual wisecracker that I love, but he is being torn apart with this situation. Please, reach out to him.
I have lived a good life. Until I met Nick, I thought that my marriage was the best thing that my life had to offer me. Boy, was I wrong. Nick has been the most uplifting, wonderful addition to my life - and to my daughter's. That man was sent to me from heaven. I thank God for him.
Please keep my family in your prayers.
You have all enriched my life. Thank you.
After that, all is a jumble. We soon found out that her cancer had come back- this time, it was in the bones in her leg. She had a metal rod put in and the cancer removed. About a month later, Nick (my stepdad) and I found my mom laying in bed, and she seemed to be having a stroke. We took her to the hospital, where she had a CT scan. Her cancer had spread to her brain. The tumors were putting pressure on her brain, causing the stroke-like reaction. We were told she had six months.
Mom had another brain surgery, and one of the tumors was removed. The other remained, chemo or radiation was done, and it was gone. She was then put into a rehab facility. She remained there for two weeks. We continued to watch her health decline. We knew the cancer had spread. She could no longer speak because of the toll the radiation had done on her vocal chords. We fed her ice cream and ice chips- it was all she could eat. On May 6, 2007, I revealed to her that I was expecting a baby in December. Long story short, I, at the age of 16, was trying to concieve a grandchild for my mother with my now-husband. She cried, and asked me if I was okay. I promised her that I'd make a doctor's appointment, and that was her dying wish. I made that apointment. I pushed her around in her wheelchair, and let her enjoy the view of the gardens at the rehab center.
The next day, after school (I was a junior in high school at the time), I got a call from my stepdad, who was with her. He was crying, and passed the phone to the doctor. She told me that I needed to get there quick- they were transferring her back to the University of Illinois at Chicago, where she had her cancer treatment, and that things didn't look good. I hopped my butt on a train and went straight there.
When I got there, I saw my mom. She was peaceful, but it was scary. I told her I loved her, I kissed her and told her that everything would be okay. I told her I made my doctor's appointment. I kissed her again, and left her for the very last time. I went downstairs with nick to get some coffee. When we returned, the doctor informed us that my mother had passed away. I was heartbroken, I cried, let out a few obscenities,and hugged my stepdad (he needed a hug more than I did). They all went in to see my mom one last time. I refused. I was happy that I said goodbye to her, and in a way, I felt like she said goodbye back. She was peaceful.
Later that year, I gave birth to my first daughter in that very same hospital. I felt that a piece of my mother was with her.
So here's to you mom. The one who held my hand. The former President of the PTO who busted her ass to make my school nice. The one who taught me so much, my backbone. Never does a day go by that I don't think of you, that I don't remember you hollering my name. I remember so much, and I will never forget.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Rats.
Oh boy. Animal lovers, you might want to skip this post.
I was walking up the stairs yesterday (we're in a basement apartment) and I saw a rat on the ground floor landing (enclosed porch). It saw me, go scared, and scurried under the stairs. It was big. Probably a baby rat, or a giant mouse. I don't know... but it was big and black. It likely got in because the back door is left open alot- it doesn't close properly much of the time and opens on its own.
Anyways- I ran out to the dollar store, got some snap traps, and set them. This morning, my husband informed me that the rat got caught in one of the traps. I refused to look at it, but I'm very relieved that it's gone. He said that the thing was huge.
I actually contemplated getting a kitty or borrowing one from a friend so that it would be more of a "circle of life" thing. I'm sorry it had to die, but I just can't take rodents living in my home.
On a lighter note, when we went to the store to get the traps, my wonderful N embarassed the daylight out of me. We walked into the store and she exclaimed, "Mamas, it's [i]messy[/i] in here!!". That got us a lot of fun looks! She continued to talk to me about how big of a mess it was in the store. How fun.
Oh, and my seedlings have almost all sprouted nicely. My basil, oregano, lettuce, sunflowers, cucumbers, and tomatoes have sprouted. I'm still waiting on my bell peppers, squash, and cilantro.
I was walking up the stairs yesterday (we're in a basement apartment) and I saw a rat on the ground floor landing (enclosed porch). It saw me, go scared, and scurried under the stairs. It was big. Probably a baby rat, or a giant mouse. I don't know... but it was big and black. It likely got in because the back door is left open alot- it doesn't close properly much of the time and opens on its own.
Anyways- I ran out to the dollar store, got some snap traps, and set them. This morning, my husband informed me that the rat got caught in one of the traps. I refused to look at it, but I'm very relieved that it's gone. He said that the thing was huge.
I actually contemplated getting a kitty or borrowing one from a friend so that it would be more of a "circle of life" thing. I'm sorry it had to die, but I just can't take rodents living in my home.
On a lighter note, when we went to the store to get the traps, my wonderful N embarassed the daylight out of me. We walked into the store and she exclaimed, "Mamas, it's [i]messy[/i] in here!!". That got us a lot of fun looks! She continued to talk to me about how big of a mess it was in the store. How fun.
Oh, and my seedlings have almost all sprouted nicely. My basil, oregano, lettuce, sunflowers, cucumbers, and tomatoes have sprouted. I'm still waiting on my bell peppers, squash, and cilantro.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Revisiting Cosleeping
So, as you probably know, we cosleep with M via a sidecarred crib. I promise I'll get around to posting photos of this eventually!
I recently made a discovery.. and this was shocking to me. I had questioned the safety of N's sleeping arrangement. She was sleeping in a 6'x6' room, no windows. There are two gas meters in the closet. This is obviously in-your-face unsafe!
So, after realizing this ridiculously horrible mistake, we moved N into our room. Her bed is now at the foot of our bed and we're happy with that. We moved daddy's computer stuff into her old bedroom, so it is now his office. I am more than content with that, because now all of the electronics are up and out of the main living space :)
Anyways.. how can I make her little area more... "her"? She didn't have much in her room, since it was only for sleeping. I need some ideas!!
I recently made a discovery.. and this was shocking to me. I had questioned the safety of N's sleeping arrangement. She was sleeping in a 6'x6' room, no windows. There are two gas meters in the closet. This is obviously in-your-face unsafe!
So, after realizing this ridiculously horrible mistake, we moved N into our room. Her bed is now at the foot of our bed and we're happy with that. We moved daddy's computer stuff into her old bedroom, so it is now his office. I am more than content with that, because now all of the electronics are up and out of the main living space :)
Anyways.. how can I make her little area more... "her"? She didn't have much in her room, since it was only for sleeping. I need some ideas!!
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Eaten Alive
:) Well, maybe that's a bit dramatic.
I cannot seem to get rid of laundry. I wash it all, it piles up on the bed, and by the end of the night I'm too tired to fold it and it gets plopped in baskets, wrinkling them and making them even more undesirable to fold.
I have bagged up tons and tons of clothing to go to donations- I'm currently eliminating polyester, since M is allergic to it. I already eliminated most clothes with big logos and sayings on them, because I don't like us looking like billboards. I even put tons of things in storage boxes BY SIZE to donate to needy people as I come by them. But no. The laundry is still chasing me.
Anyone have any tips?
I cannot seem to get rid of laundry. I wash it all, it piles up on the bed, and by the end of the night I'm too tired to fold it and it gets plopped in baskets, wrinkling them and making them even more undesirable to fold.
I have bagged up tons and tons of clothing to go to donations- I'm currently eliminating polyester, since M is allergic to it. I already eliminated most clothes with big logos and sayings on them, because I don't like us looking like billboards. I even put tons of things in storage boxes BY SIZE to donate to needy people as I come by them. But no. The laundry is still chasing me.
Anyone have any tips?
Sunday, April 18, 2010
It's a colorful life
Spring is here, but it is not without a chilly day. We still manage to get outside most days, though I am battling a pretty bad cold. The other day, while on the way to the grocery store, our wonderful neighbor had a surprise for our girls! N received some chalk, and M received an adorable outfit. They both also got pinwheels, a favorite of mine as a child. N enjoys watching the wind spin them round and round.
Since we were on our way out when we received these gifts, N didn't get to play with them right away. All she could talk about in the car was her chalk! When we got home, she carried the package around until I was able to go outside with her- and boy was it ever so chilly!
I currently have a few projects going. I'm knitting up M's sleep sack.. I'm more than halfway done. I changed the yarn color- it's completely different because I just couldn't stand looking at the old yarn anymore, and I finished the ball. I'm also knitting up a calorimetry for N. I'm getting tired of having to cut her bangs all the time, she's pretty squirmy and it takes forever. I'm hoping, instead, to grow them out. Right now I'm using medium weight yarn.. perhaps I'll adjust it in the future to use a lighter weight yarn for warmer months. Anyways, it's my first project following a pattern, using short rows, rib knitting.... the list goes on! Either way, it's alot of fun and I'm enjoying the task. I will hopefully be done today so I'll post pictures tomorrow :)
So heres to springtime- may it be colorful and fruitful for us all.
Since we were on our way out when we received these gifts, N didn't get to play with them right away. All she could talk about in the car was her chalk! When we got home, she carried the package around until I was able to go outside with her- and boy was it ever so chilly!
I currently have a few projects going. I'm knitting up M's sleep sack.. I'm more than halfway done. I changed the yarn color- it's completely different because I just couldn't stand looking at the old yarn anymore, and I finished the ball. I'm also knitting up a calorimetry for N. I'm getting tired of having to cut her bangs all the time, she's pretty squirmy and it takes forever. I'm hoping, instead, to grow them out. Right now I'm using medium weight yarn.. perhaps I'll adjust it in the future to use a lighter weight yarn for warmer months. Anyways, it's my first project following a pattern, using short rows, rib knitting.... the list goes on! Either way, it's alot of fun and I'm enjoying the task. I will hopefully be done today so I'll post pictures tomorrow :)
So heres to springtime- may it be colorful and fruitful for us all.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Bald
I just wanted to pop in a mention that I am going bald.
Yes, we have alas reached the 4 month fallout. My shower drain could probably give you a better discription of this, but it's pretty bad to say the least.
I'm hoping that the next couple of months pass quickly. I'm going to have to pick up some lightweight yarn (have not idea what that's called!) and knit up some headbands for my next project. Seriously, my poor hair. I have bald spots at my temples. It's just taking flight from my head.
Yes, we have alas reached the 4 month fallout. My shower drain could probably give you a better discription of this, but it's pretty bad to say the least.
I'm hoping that the next couple of months pass quickly. I'm going to have to pick up some lightweight yarn (have not idea what that's called!) and knit up some headbands for my next project. Seriously, my poor hair. I have bald spots at my temples. It's just taking flight from my head.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Simple Things
“The farmer gave us golden grain
For us to grind and grind
Now it’s flour brown and white
Soft and very fine
Add the water, yeast and honey
Mix it with our hands
When it’s soft and not too runny
Let it stand and stand
Shape the dough into a loaf
Put it in to cook
When it’s crusty, crisp and brown
We’ll take it out and look"
N and I baked our first loaf of bread yesterday, and it went smoothly :)
Friday, April 9, 2010
Busy Fingers in a Row...
Each one knows the way to go
How to work and how to play.
Yet together they work the best,
Each one helping all the rest.
I've been quite busy lately! In an effort to live a more simple lifestyle and provide my family with a wholesome environment, I've been making and creating. Easter was our first handmade holiday.
I needle felted a little spring gnome for N. Still needs to be felted a bit more, but I was pressed for time and it's pretty sturdy!
I know I posted this in the last post, but I didn't elaborate. I made N the wet felted eggs that I told you all about before, tutorial is here. I needle felted her a little ball, which she adores, as well as a pink and white toadstool (the wool one). Everything else, acorns, wooden toadstools, etc. were credit to Etsy sellers. The bear is a Holtziger figure, and I've already decided that we.need.more. :)
Something else we've been working on...
We built N a dollhouse, the roof isn't on yet but we think that playsilks make a great roof!
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
A Tisket, A Tasket...
... N filled up ber basket!
Easter (we celebrated it as the first day of spring, this year) was a bright and sunny occasion for us, and I was able to get some great photos of the family.
N's Spring Basket, I made the needle and wet felted items
N in the dress that grandma got her
There she goes!
M, in the dress that grandma got her (same as N's)
A beautiful egg hiding in a tree
Mother nature must have let the root children out just in time!
Easter was pretty fun. It hit around 80 that day, we had a barbeque with the family in the backyard. It did rain later on in the afternoon, but you know what they say- "April showers bring May flowers!".
Easter (we celebrated it as the first day of spring, this year) was a bright and sunny occasion for us, and I was able to get some great photos of the family.
N's Spring Basket, I made the needle and wet felted items
N in the dress that grandma got her
There she goes!
M, in the dress that grandma got her (same as N's)
A beautiful egg hiding in a tree
Mother nature must have let the root children out just in time!
Easter was pretty fun. It hit around 80 that day, we had a barbeque with the family in the backyard. It did rain later on in the afternoon, but you know what they say- "April showers bring May flowers!".
Thursday, April 1, 2010
It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood...
Indeed, it is. It was in the 80s today! I think that mother nature was playing a cruel April Fool's joke on us and it will surely be a blizzard tomorrow ;)
This week, N started her activities at the park district. She had playgroup on tuesday. She enjoyed the slide, but that was really it. Daddy pushed her around in a wagon for a bit. Today she had playgroup again and they did some watercolor painting which she loved, and they played in a playroom. N actually didn't play in the playroom, she was very into her painting. I'm not too keen on the plastic toy bounty at the park district but if she likes the slide, she likes the slide. Perhaps she'll make a friend.
She also began her gymnastics class this week. She really loved it. It's in an actual gymnastics gym (bars, beams, and the like) and she really enjoyed it! I was thrilled. She started gymnastics at another park last fall and did not enjoy herself.. we dropped the class after two classes. This park is totally different, and she really loves it.
Easter is on its way, and we have decided that we probably won't be celebrating it as Easter. I've been following the blog Frontier Dreams for quite some time. The author, Nicole, celebrates the first day of spring, instead of easter, with the appearnce of the Root Children.. which are characters in a book by Sybille Von Olfers. N adores this story, so I'm adopting Nicole's idea. I also saw her tutorial for wet felted wool spring eggs, so I made some. I'm hoping they're thick enough.. just waiting for them to dry.
N is going to have all sorts of goodies in her Spring eggs & basket (basket will be from us, not the root children), and I'll be sure to fill everyone in when she sees them.
I realize that the equinox has passed, but we're going to celebrate this Sunday anyhow. Next year we'll do it on the real first day of spring :)
This week, N started her activities at the park district. She had playgroup on tuesday. She enjoyed the slide, but that was really it. Daddy pushed her around in a wagon for a bit. Today she had playgroup again and they did some watercolor painting which she loved, and they played in a playroom. N actually didn't play in the playroom, she was very into her painting. I'm not too keen on the plastic toy bounty at the park district but if she likes the slide, she likes the slide. Perhaps she'll make a friend.
She also began her gymnastics class this week. She really loved it. It's in an actual gymnastics gym (bars, beams, and the like) and she really enjoyed it! I was thrilled. She started gymnastics at another park last fall and did not enjoy herself.. we dropped the class after two classes. This park is totally different, and she really loves it.
Easter is on its way, and we have decided that we probably won't be celebrating it as Easter. I've been following the blog Frontier Dreams for quite some time. The author, Nicole, celebrates the first day of spring, instead of easter, with the appearnce of the Root Children.. which are characters in a book by Sybille Von Olfers. N adores this story, so I'm adopting Nicole's idea. I also saw her tutorial for wet felted wool spring eggs, so I made some. I'm hoping they're thick enough.. just waiting for them to dry.
N is going to have all sorts of goodies in her Spring eggs & basket (basket will be from us, not the root children), and I'll be sure to fill everyone in when she sees them.
I realize that the equinox has passed, but we're going to celebrate this Sunday anyhow. Next year we'll do it on the real first day of spring :)
Monday, March 29, 2010
"A Place for Everything..."
"...and Everything in its Place."
I used to hear those words uttered frequently by my grandmother. Her home was always neat and tidy, and, like the saying says, everything had its place. As a child I brushed it off, I'm not a very organized person by nature. Yesterday, however, my grandma's old saying hit me right in the face.
I had sat down at the computer to nurse M, and check the status of an order I had placed. I heard a firetruck's horn honk. It was loud, but since we're near a main street, I figured it was just passing by. I then looked to the window, and saw a man I had never seen before standing outside of our yard. He had a look of pure fascination and awe on his face. I knew something was up, so I ran upstairs to Cecy's (mother in law's) house and went outside (I can't see anything from our windows). When I went outside, the entire neighborhood was outside, along with four firetrucks, complete with hoses and the ladder. I dashed to the backyard, to see the neighbor's house engulfed in flames. I ran back inside to get the kids dressed (it's cold out) and ready in case the fire were to spread and we needed to leave. I had initially thought that the fire was closer because of the large amount of smoke and fire that I saw. It was four houses south of ours. Here in Chicago, our houses are 3 feet apart, so things can get out of hand. The wind was in our favor and our house was spared. The house south of the house that caught fire also caught a little fire, but it wasn't bad. In the end, a family of 6, including 4 children lost their home. I am so deeply sorry for them, but at least no one was hurt.
But back to my revelation. When I was trying to get the kids ready, I suddenly could not.find.anything. I couldn't find M's snowsuit, hat, or N's shoes. What if there were a true emergency? I'd like to have a blanket or something ready to grab in a split second in an emergency. But nope, couldn't find it. What an eye opener.
I used to hear those words uttered frequently by my grandmother. Her home was always neat and tidy, and, like the saying says, everything had its place. As a child I brushed it off, I'm not a very organized person by nature. Yesterday, however, my grandma's old saying hit me right in the face.
I had sat down at the computer to nurse M, and check the status of an order I had placed. I heard a firetruck's horn honk. It was loud, but since we're near a main street, I figured it was just passing by. I then looked to the window, and saw a man I had never seen before standing outside of our yard. He had a look of pure fascination and awe on his face. I knew something was up, so I ran upstairs to Cecy's (mother in law's) house and went outside (I can't see anything from our windows). When I went outside, the entire neighborhood was outside, along with four firetrucks, complete with hoses and the ladder. I dashed to the backyard, to see the neighbor's house engulfed in flames. I ran back inside to get the kids dressed (it's cold out) and ready in case the fire were to spread and we needed to leave. I had initially thought that the fire was closer because of the large amount of smoke and fire that I saw. It was four houses south of ours. Here in Chicago, our houses are 3 feet apart, so things can get out of hand. The wind was in our favor and our house was spared. The house south of the house that caught fire also caught a little fire, but it wasn't bad. In the end, a family of 6, including 4 children lost their home. I am so deeply sorry for them, but at least no one was hurt.
But back to my revelation. When I was trying to get the kids ready, I suddenly could not.find.anything. I couldn't find M's snowsuit, hat, or N's shoes. What if there were a true emergency? I'd like to have a blanket or something ready to grab in a split second in an emergency. But nope, couldn't find it. What an eye opener.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Why I Don't Keep the House Tidy
It is no secret, especially if you've been a guest in my home. It is rarely tidy- and when it is, you've caught it at a 1 in a million chance and if you blink your eyes it will be untidy again. Seriously.
This is something that really irks my husband, and I feel bad. He works all day and our house is a disaster when he comes home. Don't get me wrong, the mess makes me nuts too! So, I've been thinking, and in trying to grow, I've formulated my list of previous reasons for not keeping the house tidy.
1. I had a major headache. Yeah, this happens quite often.
Solution: Keep my blood sugar up.
2. The baby was hanging off of my breast all day, and I couldn't.
Solution: Sling her.
3. N was flipping and bouncing off the walls all day.
Solution: Have her help me.
4. I couldn't do the dishes that have been piling up because I can't leave the kids alone.
Solution: Take M in her swing into the bathroom with me to wash dishes. Yes, we wash dishes in the bathroom.
5. But it's so hard to wash dishes in the bathroom!!!
Solution: Deal with it.
6. We don't have a place for anything, there's too much stuff...
Toss the un-needed, unwanted, and unuseful or donate it. Find a place for the important stuff.
And my mom's life long rule that I never seemed to follow? "When you get done with something, PUT IT AWAY before you get something else out!".
I think that's the golden rule.
Off to clean the casa.
This is something that really irks my husband, and I feel bad. He works all day and our house is a disaster when he comes home. Don't get me wrong, the mess makes me nuts too! So, I've been thinking, and in trying to grow, I've formulated my list of previous reasons for not keeping the house tidy.
1. I had a major headache. Yeah, this happens quite often.
Solution: Keep my blood sugar up.
2. The baby was hanging off of my breast all day, and I couldn't.
Solution: Sling her.
3. N was flipping and bouncing off the walls all day.
Solution: Have her help me.
4. I couldn't do the dishes that have been piling up because I can't leave the kids alone.
Solution: Take M in her swing into the bathroom with me to wash dishes. Yes, we wash dishes in the bathroom.
5. But it's so hard to wash dishes in the bathroom!!!
Solution: Deal with it.
6. We don't have a place for anything, there's too much stuff...
Toss the un-needed, unwanted, and unuseful or donate it. Find a place for the important stuff.
And my mom's life long rule that I never seemed to follow? "When you get done with something, PUT IT AWAY before you get something else out!".
I think that's the golden rule.
Off to clean the casa.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Fun at the Chicago Children's Museum
Today we took the trip out to the Chicago Children's Museum. N had a blast!
She loved the purple raincoat that the CCM supplied!
Lake Michigan was especially choppy today!
On a side note, I purchased a beautiful Ergo carrier today!
She loved the purple raincoat that the CCM supplied!
Lake Michigan was especially choppy today!
On a side note, I purchased a beautiful Ergo carrier today!
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Close to my Heart
Wearing my children has been one of the best things I've ever done. I wanted to pop in and share some photos.
M in her Moby Wrap, close to mama.
This was taken at a birthday party last Sunday. Hubby, his mother, and me, wearing M in her Mei Tai. (Yes, I know the strap is a little too close to my neck. Hubby tied it too tightly! Whoops!). And look at all of her hair!
N & I, last July. She loved riding in her sling.
N & I, in October, showing off in our Moby Wrap.
I haven't worn N in a really long time, and I'm very thankful that she's not jealous of her sister. Anyways, wanted to share that :)
M in her Moby Wrap, close to mama.
This was taken at a birthday party last Sunday. Hubby, his mother, and me, wearing M in her Mei Tai. (Yes, I know the strap is a little too close to my neck. Hubby tied it too tightly! Whoops!). And look at all of her hair!
N & I, last July. She loved riding in her sling.
N & I, in October, showing off in our Moby Wrap.
I haven't worn N in a really long time, and I'm very thankful that she's not jealous of her sister. Anyways, wanted to share that :)
Saturday, March 20, 2010
It's been awhile!
I haven't blogged in probably 2 weeks! I've been slacking. Here's an update of what's been happenin' in our household.
Daddy & I installed our new kitchen table. It's awesome- honestly, we love it. It's a wooden black tabletop with a stainless steel pole leg, and brackets affixing it to the wall. It's bar-height, so we have tall chairs to go along with it. It really saves a ton of space. N sits in her high chair which is pretty tall, so she isn't left out of mealtime.
We went grocery shopping today. I've been making more of an effort to cook home cooked meals and get her off of the artificial colors, flavors, etc, and high fructose corn syrup. She did have a bit in ketchup today though...ergh.
Also, we have completely weaned her off of juice!! She is now a big fan of water, which she wouldn't touch before.
I've been working on a new knitting project- a wooly sleepy sack for M. I casted on about 20" worth of stiching (height), and am going to have to knit on probably another 20 more (maybe less) for the width. I've only got about 2" done though... so I've got alot to work on!
I'm also still reading "You are Your Child's First Teacher" so I've got alot on my plate.
M is going to be 3 months old on Monday and she's doing great!
Daddy & I installed our new kitchen table. It's awesome- honestly, we love it. It's a wooden black tabletop with a stainless steel pole leg, and brackets affixing it to the wall. It's bar-height, so we have tall chairs to go along with it. It really saves a ton of space. N sits in her high chair which is pretty tall, so she isn't left out of mealtime.
We went grocery shopping today. I've been making more of an effort to cook home cooked meals and get her off of the artificial colors, flavors, etc, and high fructose corn syrup. She did have a bit in ketchup today though...ergh.
Also, we have completely weaned her off of juice!! She is now a big fan of water, which she wouldn't touch before.
I've been working on a new knitting project- a wooly sleepy sack for M. I casted on about 20" worth of stiching (height), and am going to have to knit on probably another 20 more (maybe less) for the width. I've only got about 2" done though... so I've got alot to work on!
I'm also still reading "You are Your Child's First Teacher" so I've got alot on my plate.
M is going to be 3 months old on Monday and she's doing great!
Monday, March 8, 2010
Goodness...
I'm seriously never eating fast food again.
I decided to eat Wendy's today- and holy freaking moly do I regret it. I just feel generally icky and my tummy hurts. Gross, gross, gross.
Making changes for the better is great- but I did not need that fast food relapse!
I decided to eat Wendy's today- and holy freaking moly do I regret it. I just feel generally icky and my tummy hurts. Gross, gross, gross.
Making changes for the better is great- but I did not need that fast food relapse!
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Following our dreams, not our pocketbooks.
I think that's going to become my blog's subtitle/description.
Right off the bat, I will say that I'm very proud to be a mom. I am proud and very happy staying with my children all day. I feel that I am giving them the best. I have no current intention of going back to work or going back to school, unless dire circumstances call for it. I have full intention to homeschool my children.
Numerous people as me when I'm planning on going back to school, back to work, etc. It is as if it is completely impossible to live a life if I am not formally educated. I don't choose to follow my pocketbook- my choice in life is to be with my children. To raise them and give them a wholesome education- not just in a schooling aspect- I mean all around. I know that this is something I need to work on, and also something that is not terribly easy considering our given circumstances, but I'd like to be a bit more self-sustaining. Whatever happened to the wife who had a garden and raised yummy fruits, veggies, and flowers to eat? The momma who baked bread? Who made many of the family's clothes? I don't mind being that "traditional housewife", I find it to be more pleasing than being disconnected from my children and only home in chunks of time and away again. I think feminism in itself lead to the demise of women.. and therefore led to the demise of our children. I think the feminist movement was a huge contribution to "bad parents". Women wanted to go out and do what men did. No issues with that, I'm all for equallity... but then who was to raise the children? In most cases, roles arent reversed. Many familys have both parents working outside the home. Rarely is there a stay at home father. With no one with the kids, they are dumped at daycare, babysitters, school (I know homeschooling is not for everyone, but school shouldn't be a babysitter), or worst of all, left alone for a large part of the day. Children just aren't well rounded anymore.
But then, you ask, "What about money"? Simple. We don't need all of that money. I would much rather raise a wholesome family than dwell on whether or not I have the coolest gadget. Groceries? Clothes? Bringing back the self-sustaining point... self explanitory.
Anyways, I had to share that.
Right off the bat, I will say that I'm very proud to be a mom. I am proud and very happy staying with my children all day. I feel that I am giving them the best. I have no current intention of going back to work or going back to school, unless dire circumstances call for it. I have full intention to homeschool my children.
Numerous people as me when I'm planning on going back to school, back to work, etc. It is as if it is completely impossible to live a life if I am not formally educated. I don't choose to follow my pocketbook- my choice in life is to be with my children. To raise them and give them a wholesome education- not just in a schooling aspect- I mean all around. I know that this is something I need to work on, and also something that is not terribly easy considering our given circumstances, but I'd like to be a bit more self-sustaining. Whatever happened to the wife who had a garden and raised yummy fruits, veggies, and flowers to eat? The momma who baked bread? Who made many of the family's clothes? I don't mind being that "traditional housewife", I find it to be more pleasing than being disconnected from my children and only home in chunks of time and away again. I think feminism in itself lead to the demise of women.. and therefore led to the demise of our children. I think the feminist movement was a huge contribution to "bad parents". Women wanted to go out and do what men did. No issues with that, I'm all for equallity... but then who was to raise the children? In most cases, roles arent reversed. Many familys have both parents working outside the home. Rarely is there a stay at home father. With no one with the kids, they are dumped at daycare, babysitters, school (I know homeschooling is not for everyone, but school shouldn't be a babysitter), or worst of all, left alone for a large part of the day. Children just aren't well rounded anymore.
But then, you ask, "What about money"? Simple. We don't need all of that money. I would much rather raise a wholesome family than dwell on whether or not I have the coolest gadget. Groceries? Clothes? Bringing back the self-sustaining point... self explanitory.
Anyways, I had to share that.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Minimal Clothing Challenge (and other updates)
First off, I'd like to apologize for neglecting my blog. I've been battling a cold for the past two days, and M has been sick with a cough since Monday morning. Not sure what did it, but it sure wasn't pleasant!
I'm happy to report that both onions are growing nicely (they're huge!) and that I also added a nice garlic plant to the mix. It sprouted 2 days after I had put it in water by the windowsill. It is now about 6 inches tall and has a few more sprous coming up :)
I am also pleased to mention that N will be starting gymnastics at a new park at the end of the month. This park has a gymnastics center and we love it. Hubby's sister went there pre-highschool, and I went there when I was younger (though my mom pulled me out and put me in a new park because I was intimidated!). Hopefully she enjoys it.. the gymnastics she had at the other park was a bit boring and the teacher was horribly unfit to teach children :( N is also going to start a new playgroup at a new park :) It runs two days a week and should be fun, I hope. I do have to walk there... a LONG way! 27 city blocks!!!
ANYWHO. I'm going to have hubby help me thin out our clothing today. For me, I'm planning on keeping:
3 Jeans
3 Denim Capris (Spring is coming!)
2 Sleep Shirts (Both White Sox Tees)
3 Sweat/Jogging Pants
3 Sleep Shorts
3 Nursing Tanks
4 Nursing Bras
x Long Sleeve Shirts
x Short Sleeve Shirts
3 Sweat Shirts
2 Jackets for going out
(Above marked with "x" because I need to see them.. lol)
I'd like it to be even more minimal than that, but with children, that's not all that plausible!
And for M:
7 Lap Tees
7 Pairs of cotton pants
2 Pairs of Wool Longies (Pants)
2 Cotton Knit Sweaters
2 One Piece Sleepers
1 Snow Suit for outings
2 cotton dresses (one is for easter, one is for occasions)
For N:
5 Pairs of Jeans
5 Cotton Play pants
5 Short sleeve shirts/onesies
5 Long sleeve shirts/onesies
2 Hooded zip sweat shirts
2 Jackets/Coats
2 dresses, one for easter, one for occasions)
I'm sure I left things out (socks, for one). I'll figure that out as I go along. I also need to figure out what I'm going to do with my trillion receiving blankets. M's favorites have been the ones that they give you in the hospital (which, I know, you aren't supposed to take. Tell my husband otherwise..!)
Hubby is on his own, clothing-wise! :)
I'm happy to report that both onions are growing nicely (they're huge!) and that I also added a nice garlic plant to the mix. It sprouted 2 days after I had put it in water by the windowsill. It is now about 6 inches tall and has a few more sprous coming up :)
I am also pleased to mention that N will be starting gymnastics at a new park at the end of the month. This park has a gymnastics center and we love it. Hubby's sister went there pre-highschool, and I went there when I was younger (though my mom pulled me out and put me in a new park because I was intimidated!). Hopefully she enjoys it.. the gymnastics she had at the other park was a bit boring and the teacher was horribly unfit to teach children :( N is also going to start a new playgroup at a new park :) It runs two days a week and should be fun, I hope. I do have to walk there... a LONG way! 27 city blocks!!!
ANYWHO. I'm going to have hubby help me thin out our clothing today. For me, I'm planning on keeping:
3 Jeans
3 Denim Capris (Spring is coming!)
2 Sleep Shirts (Both White Sox Tees)
3 Sweat/Jogging Pants
3 Sleep Shorts
3 Nursing Tanks
4 Nursing Bras
x Long Sleeve Shirts
x Short Sleeve Shirts
3 Sweat Shirts
2 Jackets for going out
(Above marked with "x" because I need to see them.. lol)
I'd like it to be even more minimal than that, but with children, that's not all that plausible!
And for M:
7 Lap Tees
7 Pairs of cotton pants
2 Pairs of Wool Longies (Pants)
2 Cotton Knit Sweaters
2 One Piece Sleepers
1 Snow Suit for outings
2 cotton dresses (one is for easter, one is for occasions)
For N:
5 Pairs of Jeans
5 Cotton Play pants
5 Short sleeve shirts/onesies
5 Long sleeve shirts/onesies
2 Hooded zip sweat shirts
2 Jackets/Coats
2 dresses, one for easter, one for occasions)
I'm sure I left things out (socks, for one). I'll figure that out as I go along. I also need to figure out what I'm going to do with my trillion receiving blankets. M's favorites have been the ones that they give you in the hospital (which, I know, you aren't supposed to take. Tell my husband otherwise..!)
Hubby is on his own, clothing-wise! :)
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Reconnecting with Brother Onion
Woah. Simply, woah.
Today, while cleaning up our kitchen area, I decided to check on my onions and potatoes. This is what I found.
So- I don't know what to do with it, but N is very proud of her onion!
I also found another onion that had a very small sprout at the top, so I put bMoth onions in cups of water next to the windowsill. No idea where to go from here, so our onions are just on display!
Today, while cleaning up our kitchen area, I decided to check on my onions and potatoes. This is what I found.
So- I don't know what to do with it, but N is very proud of her onion!
I also found another onion that had a very small sprout at the top, so I put bMoth onions in cups of water next to the windowsill. No idea where to go from here, so our onions are just on display!
Friday, February 19, 2010
Spring has Sprung!
Aah.. it is wonderful to finally hear birds chirping, squirrels scurrying about.. I sense springtime, as I usually do about a month before the actual equinox or solstice. The vernal equinox isn't until March 20th, so I'm right on schedule.
Today I took M to the post office, I had to mail out some things that I had sold online. I had her wrapped in the Moby with my coat zipped over, so only her little head popped out. I suppose she was quite the sight because people would not.stop.staring! It wasn't terribly cold out, it was around 40 according to my desktop temp thingamabob.
Our morning verse is going over wonderfully with N. She loves to sing the good morning song, but she made up her own version and sings "good morning baby, good morning mama, good morning N, good morning daddy", while I sing. She's adorable :) I'm still looking for a bedtime verse/song and would greatly appreciate some help!
And as for the bit about the toys..
I have no idea why I can't seem to part with N's Melissa and Doug play food. I need the motivation to sell it. I don't want to rid everything.. I'll keep a few pieces that she likes (the milk, the slices of bread, the cheese), but will really need to sell off the rest. Same goes for the wooden blocks we got at Target- they don't get any use anymore. When M is big enough for blocks I'll probably get some more from someone on Etsy, but for now, they're a no-go in our house :(
I'd also *love* to get some playsilks, but I can't make up my mind. I might buy blank silks and dye them with koolaid or actual food for a more natural approach.
Also, a photo :)
The Ikea Leka play gym went over really well with M!
Edited to add: I ended up getting two silks from Syrndell on Etsy.. Hoping the girls will love them! I also found a meal song :)
Earth who gives us all our food
Sun who makes it ripe and good
Dear Earth Dear Sun
Our thanks we give
For this food that helps us live.
Today I took M to the post office, I had to mail out some things that I had sold online. I had her wrapped in the Moby with my coat zipped over, so only her little head popped out. I suppose she was quite the sight because people would not.stop.staring! It wasn't terribly cold out, it was around 40 according to my desktop temp thingamabob.
Our morning verse is going over wonderfully with N. She loves to sing the good morning song, but she made up her own version and sings "good morning baby, good morning mama, good morning N, good morning daddy", while I sing. She's adorable :) I'm still looking for a bedtime verse/song and would greatly appreciate some help!
And as for the bit about the toys..
I have no idea why I can't seem to part with N's Melissa and Doug play food. I need the motivation to sell it. I don't want to rid everything.. I'll keep a few pieces that she likes (the milk, the slices of bread, the cheese), but will really need to sell off the rest. Same goes for the wooden blocks we got at Target- they don't get any use anymore. When M is big enough for blocks I'll probably get some more from someone on Etsy, but for now, they're a no-go in our house :(
I'd also *love* to get some playsilks, but I can't make up my mind. I might buy blank silks and dye them with koolaid or actual food for a more natural approach.
Also, a photo :)
The Ikea Leka play gym went over really well with M!
Edited to add: I ended up getting two silks from Syrndell on Etsy.. Hoping the girls will love them! I also found a meal song :)
Sun who makes it ripe and good
Dear Earth Dear Sun
Our thanks we give
For this food that helps us live.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Working on our Verses
So, I've decided to transition into a Waldorfy lifestyle with the kids. I'm starting by trying to create rhythm. I've got our morning verse down, it goes as follows:
Good morning dear Earth,
Good morning dear Sun,
Good morning to the trees,
and flowers, everyone.
Good morning dear animals,
and the birds in the trees,
Good morning to you,
and good morning to me.
I'm still searching for that perfect nighttime verse.
Good morning dear Earth,
Good morning dear Sun,
Good morning to the trees,
and flowers, everyone.
Good morning dear animals,
and the birds in the trees,
Good morning to you,
and good morning to me.
I'm still searching for that perfect nighttime verse.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Toy Vent!!!
Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah.
I've seriously HAD IT with N's toys. She LOVES (emphasis on "loves") her play food. I make a huge effort not to buy anything plastic. Her play food is wooden, and it is of the Melissa and Doug brand. I'm tremendously unhappy with them.. They were opened up on Christmas Day, 2009. Numerous pieces have nicks in them, paint chipping, etc. N plays with these ALOT. But the quality just isn't there and with the recent Canadian recalls on other M&D products, I'm feeling a bit uneasy. I also have a M&D fish rattle for M, and I'm thinking of nixing that as well. Same goes for the blocks from Target. I guess quality toys can't be found anymore! *sigh* I've just had it with Melissa and Doug toys.
So here I go, off to check out stuff on Etsy.
Does anyone know if fallen branches from the Illinois Forest Preserves are okay to take home? I mean.. from a legal standpoint. I know that the animals are their property because of wildlife conservation issues.. but if a limb has fallen, I would think it is ours for the taking. Going to research this :)
And I really need to work on my knitting skills. I feel way more comfortable with wool play food than wooden play food. Who the heck knows what's in the wood? The US customs fume the crates when the come into the country, and Melissa & Doug toys are Made in China. Same with big-box stores like home depot.. if the wood is imported. If the wood isn't imported, it is still usually pesticide and herbicide laden, but lesser if it is grown in a cold climate. Wool comes from sheep, which graze on pesticide treated pastures. I still feel more comfy with the wool... or better grown wood.
I've seriously HAD IT with N's toys. She LOVES (emphasis on "loves") her play food. I make a huge effort not to buy anything plastic. Her play food is wooden, and it is of the Melissa and Doug brand. I'm tremendously unhappy with them.. They were opened up on Christmas Day, 2009. Numerous pieces have nicks in them, paint chipping, etc. N plays with these ALOT. But the quality just isn't there and with the recent Canadian recalls on other M&D products, I'm feeling a bit uneasy. I also have a M&D fish rattle for M, and I'm thinking of nixing that as well. Same goes for the blocks from Target. I guess quality toys can't be found anymore! *sigh* I've just had it with Melissa and Doug toys.
So here I go, off to check out stuff on Etsy.
Does anyone know if fallen branches from the Illinois Forest Preserves are okay to take home? I mean.. from a legal standpoint. I know that the animals are their property because of wildlife conservation issues.. but if a limb has fallen, I would think it is ours for the taking. Going to research this :)
And I really need to work on my knitting skills. I feel way more comfortable with wool play food than wooden play food. Who the heck knows what's in the wood? The US customs fume the crates when the come into the country, and Melissa & Doug toys are Made in China. Same with big-box stores like home depot.. if the wood is imported. If the wood isn't imported, it is still usually pesticide and herbicide laden, but lesser if it is grown in a cold climate. Wool comes from sheep, which graze on pesticide treated pastures. I still feel more comfy with the wool... or better grown wood.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Fun & Games
I haven't blogged in a bit, I'm trying to limit my internet time and unfortunately my alotted time has been spent playing Zoo World and FarmVille on Facebook. Oy. So, sorry for neglecting you, ol' blog.
Anyways. Yesterday, we all made the trip out to Ikea. It was alot of fun. We got M the Leka play gym, which all of us are in love with. It is so nice to see M actually interacting with something, to see her play. We also bought two chairs for a kitchen project we're starting in our non-kitchen but might abandon that idea and return the chairs because we can't find a tabletop we like, and don't want to spring the moolah for it that ikea charges.
a stock photo of the Leka play gym
N enjoying her ride in the shopping cart
And some other photos...
I got my weird contact lenses, so now I'm green eyed and strange looking...
chubalub
Finally fitting into her Goodmamas..
Anyways. Yesterday, we all made the trip out to Ikea. It was alot of fun. We got M the Leka play gym, which all of us are in love with. It is so nice to see M actually interacting with something, to see her play. We also bought two chairs for a kitchen project we're starting in our non-kitchen but might abandon that idea and return the chairs because we can't find a tabletop we like, and don't want to spring the moolah for it that ikea charges.
a stock photo of the Leka play gym
N enjoying her ride in the shopping cart
And some other photos...
I got my weird contact lenses, so now I'm green eyed and strange looking...
chubalub
Finally fitting into her Goodmamas..
Monday, February 1, 2010
You Don't Gno-ME!
A little humor there ;]
We got our hat from Kris at SweetNettle today and we love it!! Sent along were two beautiful postcards.
Here is M in her hat.
Again with the camera shyness!
We got our hat from Kris at SweetNettle today and we love it!! Sent along were two beautiful postcards.
Here is M in her hat.
Again with the camera shyness!
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Some photos. Just because (=
Here are some photos.. just because I feel like it!
1.28.10, M was being camera shy.
Annnnd. I got two Goodmamas (aka my favorite diaper.. EVER) today from Spot's Corner. Cheap too! Here they are.
Serendipity, with Organic Bamboo Velour Inner
and
inked, also with OBV inner
I'm currently waiting on the wonderful toy I got from ImaginationKids on Etsy. It's a Waldorf-Inspired rainbow stacker. I'm sure N and M will love it! I'm also waiting on the hat I posted about from SweetNettle. My BumGenius bamboo diapers (that were dirt cheap!!) aren't shipping until February 2nd. You can still take advantage of that deal at ElegantMommy.com . They're $6.48 a piece which is AWESOME. We needed new diapers, M grew out of everything I had bought her. So I'm selling off our newborn stash and buying small and one size dipes.
1.28.10, M was being camera shy.
Annnnd. I got two Goodmamas (aka my favorite diaper.. EVER) today from Spot's Corner. Cheap too! Here they are.
Serendipity, with Organic Bamboo Velour Inner
and
inked, also with OBV inner
I'm currently waiting on the wonderful toy I got from ImaginationKids on Etsy. It's a Waldorf-Inspired rainbow stacker. I'm sure N and M will love it! I'm also waiting on the hat I posted about from SweetNettle. My BumGenius bamboo diapers (that were dirt cheap!!) aren't shipping until February 2nd. You can still take advantage of that deal at ElegantMommy.com . They're $6.48 a piece which is AWESOME. We needed new diapers, M grew out of everything I had bought her. So I'm selling off our newborn stash and buying small and one size dipes.
Hangin' with the dinosaurs.
I realized I hadn't posted anything in a couple of days. Oops.
M is quite a character already. She's almost 6 weeks old, and has a great personality. She's starting to smile when we play with her, which is wonderful. She loves kisses from mommy. Sometimes, when N laughs, she laughs right along with her!
One thing that her daddy and I have found quite funny is the fact that she doesn't really cry. No. She makes these funny, grunty, dinosaur noises. Daddy affectionately calls her "T-Rex" or "Baby Rex". I have to get her noises on video!
M is quite a character already. She's almost 6 weeks old, and has a great personality. She's starting to smile when we play with her, which is wonderful. She loves kisses from mommy. Sometimes, when N laughs, she laughs right along with her!
One thing that her daddy and I have found quite funny is the fact that she doesn't really cry. No. She makes these funny, grunty, dinosaur noises. Daddy affectionately calls her "T-Rex" or "Baby Rex". I have to get her noises on video!
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Spring Cleaning!
It's beginning to smell like spring. Now, I know it's still below freezing most days but lately I've been waking up to the sweet smell of spring! This has been inspiring me to de-clutter and such. In the process of this, I'm trying to get rid of most of N's old clothes, since it will be about 2 years before M fits into them. M also already outgrew her newborn stuff so on sale that went as well. I already sold some stuff, and it feels great- not only to have the potential to get rid of this stuff, but to have a little extra $$ :)
Last night I bought M a new warm hat for outings.. it's knit in rainbow wool. She had begun to outgrow her hats and I'm not learning to knit fast enough.
M's new hat, from SweetNettle on Etsy.
I'm planning on getting a few wooden toys for the girls since M will begin to play with things soon and N just has far too much plastic-y junk that needs to go. And fast.
Last night I bought M a new warm hat for outings.. it's knit in rainbow wool. She had begun to outgrow her hats and I'm not learning to knit fast enough.
M's new hat, from SweetNettle on Etsy.
I'm planning on getting a few wooden toys for the girls since M will begin to play with things soon and N just has far too much plastic-y junk that needs to go. And fast.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
My new project...
I've taken to knitting! I'm so excited. Yesterday we went to the craft store, bought some knitting needles and wool yarn in a pretty color. I'm excited. I've learned to cast-on and am still learning the knit stitch, I haven't moved onto the purl stitch yet though. Anywho.. I've got a new hobby and I love it. I also got a crochet hook just in case knitting wasn't my "calling". We'll see.
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