My older kid is old enough to start preschool in the fall, as he's turning 4 next month. He's always been a bit of a high strung boy, and doesn't do well in new situations with new people. If I could create a school with all of his friends from playgroup in it, and nobody else, it'd be fine. We actually tried a school last year that allowed kids in at age 2...it worked fine at first, when I could stay with him, but he really freaked out when it was time for me to leave him there. He's never really been away from us, and his only babysitter has been his grandma. Perhaps being with him so much (we even co-slept with him, unwillingly, for 3 years) was a mistake, since he has trouble separating.
Anyway, this has led me to think about homeschooling with him. At least for preschool and kindergarten. I can't decide if it's a good idea or not. In a way, I figure these are the "grades" that I should try it out, as it's no big loss if I can't manage it (I'll admit that I lack the patience gene). I've been doing some research and there's actual curriculum you can purchase, or you can get free ideas on various homeschooling and educational websites. On the other hand, there's a lot of info suggesting that following curriculum for kids this age is a huge mistake, and you should just continue doing the normal parenting stuff (books, talks, crafts, walks, outside play).
I'm really torn about what to do. We have a nice little group of friends, so he would still have social time with them (although it'd be less, since most of them will be going to school during the day). I'd find some classes for him to try out at the community center, maybe art and/or a sport.
With my daughter, who's currently 2 1/2, I don't worry so much. She's incredibly outgoing, social and fearless. I think our big problem with her is she'll be "too social" during study time.
I have to admit that part of me likes the idea of developing their education. With the recent Texas school board idiocy regarding text books, and the Christianization of our schools, I truly worry about the bullshit my kids will hear when they start attending. Plus, both kids are very curious, and I hate how traditional schools stifle individuality (not to mention discourage dissent and questions from kids).
This parenting gig's hard.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
A Surprising Reminder
My family took a three day trip to one of my favorite places, Long Beach, WA. It was our first real "vacation" with the kids, one that involved a hotel stay (which is its own special hell, let me tell you). We spent that time shopping, checking out little stores, having ice cream, finding awesome fresh seafood in every restaurant (halibut for breakfast? Oh yeah!), visiting museums, digging in the sand, running from the waves, and hiking to some lighthouses.
The lighthouses bring me to my startling revelation. We visited North Head Lighthouse and Cape Disappointment Lighthouse, both with amazing views of the ocean. Cape Disappointment is the most exciting, as you can see the point where the Columbia River empties into the Pacific Ocean. It's incredible. It also involves a one mile hike (roundtrip) with fairly steep hills and somewhat rough terrain through the woods. A little side note here, my kids did AWESOME. We were worried they'd be whining and complaining all the way back and need to be carried. Not so, they loved it!
Anyway, as we completed this hike, I realized something...These were steep hills, and I could do it! I've had a really hard time lately with stalled weight loss. In fact, it's been at least 6 months since I've been successfully losing, though I have maintained what I lost early last year. The week before the trip, I focused very hard on my workouts and what I ate and had a one pound loss (I'm happy with one pound in a week). Still, the back and forth lately, up a pound, down a pound, have gotten me down. Depending on any given weigh-in, my total loss so far has been 30-34lbs.
So, we're hiking these hills, and I'm carrying all the coats and such, and I'm just sweating a bit. I realize I'm not out of breath, I'm not gasping for air, I'm not red as a tomato from exertion, I'm able to talk to my family. I'm not in horrible shape!!!! A year ago, I wouldn't have been able to do this so easily! When I was 30 (or 34) pounds heavier, and rarely exercised, this walk would have killed me. I would have had to rest up top for 20 minutes to head back. I wouldn't have been able to keep talking to my kids and telling them to stay on the path.
I'm keeping this in mind as I head back to work on my plan. Even though it's so incredibly slow going and frustrating right now, I can't forget how far I've come. Changing who I am is a long and hard process, and sometimes I need these reminders of what I've accomplished so far.
The lighthouses bring me to my startling revelation. We visited North Head Lighthouse and Cape Disappointment Lighthouse, both with amazing views of the ocean. Cape Disappointment is the most exciting, as you can see the point where the Columbia River empties into the Pacific Ocean. It's incredible. It also involves a one mile hike (roundtrip) with fairly steep hills and somewhat rough terrain through the woods. A little side note here, my kids did AWESOME. We were worried they'd be whining and complaining all the way back and need to be carried. Not so, they loved it!
Anyway, as we completed this hike, I realized something...These were steep hills, and I could do it! I've had a really hard time lately with stalled weight loss. In fact, it's been at least 6 months since I've been successfully losing, though I have maintained what I lost early last year. The week before the trip, I focused very hard on my workouts and what I ate and had a one pound loss (I'm happy with one pound in a week). Still, the back and forth lately, up a pound, down a pound, have gotten me down. Depending on any given weigh-in, my total loss so far has been 30-34lbs.
So, we're hiking these hills, and I'm carrying all the coats and such, and I'm just sweating a bit. I realize I'm not out of breath, I'm not gasping for air, I'm not red as a tomato from exertion, I'm able to talk to my family. I'm not in horrible shape!!!! A year ago, I wouldn't have been able to do this so easily! When I was 30 (or 34) pounds heavier, and rarely exercised, this walk would have killed me. I would have had to rest up top for 20 minutes to head back. I wouldn't have been able to keep talking to my kids and telling them to stay on the path.
I'm keeping this in mind as I head back to work on my plan. Even though it's so incredibly slow going and frustrating right now, I can't forget how far I've come. Changing who I am is a long and hard process, and sometimes I need these reminders of what I've accomplished so far.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
The Good (Married) Life
Awhile back, one of my sisters had a Facebook status that said something along the lines of, "With so many men out there to date, why would a person want to settle down with just one?" My first thought was, "Lunatic. Who wants to deal with dating? It was a pain in the ass!" I still think that, but I had another thought yesterday that made me realize what it is about marriage that I think is so great. There are the obvious reasons: Being with the person you love for the rest of your life, having support (both emotional and financial), raising a family, etc. I believe all of those things, but there's something else.
There's a house that my husband and I pass everyday when I'm taking him to the park and ride. In their very long driveway is a tractor-trailer with the word "Hoss" attached in huge letters to the front. Whether it's the name of the truck or its driver, we're not sure. Either way, we've taken to following the story of Hoss. We imagine that's the driver's nickname, and when he's gone for long stretches at a time, we're sad for his wife and family. When he returns we're giddy with happiness, "Hoss is back!" Obviously we don't know these people, and have no idea what the story/situation is. However, it's become our "thing," something we talk about and find amusing and entertaining. Other people wouldn't get it.
And that's why marriage is so great. Having someone who knows all of your inside jokes, can understand why something's funny or sad or confusing just by hearing a word or seeing a particular facial expression. This person's got your back, and that's a nice feeling. I hope Hoss and his Mrs. Hoss feel the same way.
There's a house that my husband and I pass everyday when I'm taking him to the park and ride. In their very long driveway is a tractor-trailer with the word "Hoss" attached in huge letters to the front. Whether it's the name of the truck or its driver, we're not sure. Either way, we've taken to following the story of Hoss. We imagine that's the driver's nickname, and when he's gone for long stretches at a time, we're sad for his wife and family. When he returns we're giddy with happiness, "Hoss is back!" Obviously we don't know these people, and have no idea what the story/situation is. However, it's become our "thing," something we talk about and find amusing and entertaining. Other people wouldn't get it.
And that's why marriage is so great. Having someone who knows all of your inside jokes, can understand why something's funny or sad or confusing just by hearing a word or seeing a particular facial expression. This person's got your back, and that's a nice feeling. I hope Hoss and his Mrs. Hoss feel the same way.
Monday, March 1, 2010
This Isn't Acting 101. Cut the Drama!
I've belonged to lots of mom/playgroups since having my first child. In every single one, there were constant eruptions of drama amongst the moms ("mama drama," as many of you call it). I'm tired of it. Why can't grown women get beyond the ridiculous junior high mentality that everyone's out to get them/leave them out/hurt their feelings and make their lives miserable? Additionally, why do you stay in a group where you hate the people running it and think that you're being treated unfairly?
I ask these questions as one of the organizer's of a wonderful group my kids and I participate in (where we've had very little drama until now). I'm one of three women who work our asses off to make the group fun, interesting, warm and welcoming. Yet, we have some members who think it's a great time to spread malicious gossip, manipulate other members, lie and pretty much make our lives as organizers miserable. Do they think we're doing this for money? Fame? No, we do this because we want to. We want a fun place for our families to get to know other families. To create our own village for raising our kids. It takes blood, sweat and tears to run something like this.
To those moms (both in my group and not in my group) who thrive on their drama-filled bullshit, I say...Get out. If you don't like the group and think we're a pack of backstabbing bitches, then leave. Start your own group and run it the way you want. Just watch your own back for the time that some of your members turn on you for no reason except their own sadistic enjoyment.
I ask these questions as one of the organizer's of a wonderful group my kids and I participate in (where we've had very little drama until now). I'm one of three women who work our asses off to make the group fun, interesting, warm and welcoming. Yet, we have some members who think it's a great time to spread malicious gossip, manipulate other members, lie and pretty much make our lives as organizers miserable. Do they think we're doing this for money? Fame? No, we do this because we want to. We want a fun place for our families to get to know other families. To create our own village for raising our kids. It takes blood, sweat and tears to run something like this.
To those moms (both in my group and not in my group) who thrive on their drama-filled bullshit, I say...Get out. If you don't like the group and think we're a pack of backstabbing bitches, then leave. Start your own group and run it the way you want. Just watch your own back for the time that some of your members turn on you for no reason except their own sadistic enjoyment.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
The World Does Not Revolve Around You
I used to work in social services, and have dealt with people at their worst. For the most part, my experience has shown people to be good hearted. They usually mean well and work hard to improve their situations. They care about others and make sacrifices to improve themselves. Then, there is that small percentage who are flaming assholes that need to be punched in the crotch. This is a memo to one such person.
Ever since I started going to the gym that I currently belong to, there has been a self-centered, oblivious, self-important bitch on one of the ellipticals. I loathe this woman with a passion, and she represents everything I hate about having to go to a gym in the first place. I belong to a community center facility, so there aren't 500 machines to grab. They have the rule that all gyms seem to use, that you can have a cardio machine for 30 minutes at a time, then must get off to give others a chance. This time of year it's packed with New Year's resolution crowds, and there's a good chance you might have to stand in line. This dumbass shows up, puts her water, towel and magazine on the elliptical, then proceeds to wander around the gym blabbing to people and doing everything EXCEPT workout.
Yes, she finds it acceptable to "save" a machine for herself while she goes on with her own personal social hour. This morning, she did it for 15 minutes (I was on a machine behind her, and timed it)!! None of the employees ever say a thing to her, and it infuriates me. Once she gets on the thing and starts her workout, she talks at full volume, bloviating about how important she is/her job is/her life is.
I'm contemplating a way to let her know what a fucking creep she is, because I think she honestly believes her behavior is just fine.
Ever since I started going to the gym that I currently belong to, there has been a self-centered, oblivious, self-important bitch on one of the ellipticals. I loathe this woman with a passion, and she represents everything I hate about having to go to a gym in the first place. I belong to a community center facility, so there aren't 500 machines to grab. They have the rule that all gyms seem to use, that you can have a cardio machine for 30 minutes at a time, then must get off to give others a chance. This time of year it's packed with New Year's resolution crowds, and there's a good chance you might have to stand in line. This dumbass shows up, puts her water, towel and magazine on the elliptical, then proceeds to wander around the gym blabbing to people and doing everything EXCEPT workout.
Yes, she finds it acceptable to "save" a machine for herself while she goes on with her own personal social hour. This morning, she did it for 15 minutes (I was on a machine behind her, and timed it)!! None of the employees ever say a thing to her, and it infuriates me. Once she gets on the thing and starts her workout, she talks at full volume, bloviating about how important she is/her job is/her life is.
I'm contemplating a way to let her know what a fucking creep she is, because I think she honestly believes her behavior is just fine.
Monday, January 11, 2010
For The Love Of Cheez-Its, SLEEP!
Why won't you kids let us sleep? Are you trying to kill your mommy and daddy? Don't you know that depriving us of a great night's rest makes us cranky, irritable, fat, angry, short-tempered, stupid and homicidal?
Friday, January 8, 2010
Food Obsession
After taking a break from counting points during the holidays (and while I was sick for 3 weeks), I'm back to journaling my food and making sure I stay within my points range of 28 (plus my extra 35 weekly and activity points). I remember when I first started Weight Watchers and had a ton of points, it wasn't ever an issue. I ate and ate, and my weight fell off like crazy. I swear, dropping into the 20s has been incredibly challenging, and it's been a never ending battle with the same 4 pounds over and over and over. So, I'm back to counting today, as Fridays are my weigh-in day.
I've worked out nearly everyday since Jan. 1. I'm back to running, training for a Shamrock Run 5K in March...my legs and hips are SO SORE from the increased running, but I'm meeting a physical challenge I never thought I could. I've been doing a ton of yoga and loving it. It really helps with the running soreness. I've been fitting some short and intense rebounding workouts (mini trampoline) on the weekends, as well.
I definitely HAVE to workout, along with my careful eating, in order to lose weight. While WW doesn't require exercise as part of the program, I need it.
So, here I am entering all of my meals and snacks into eTools all day long. I only have 5pts left for dinner, a common issue...It being Friday night, I'll dip into extra points or activity points for some wine tonight. Going off program and then returning brings that obsession with food that you get when you first start a weight loss program, as well. I can't stop thinking about food: What will I eat? What has only a few points? Is it time to eat? I'm SOOOOOO hungry, even though I just ate!
Aargh, I know I just need to give my body a couple of days to remember that it's not going to starve, that being hungry isn't an emergency, and to just relax and go with the flow of counting points, but I just wish I'd stayed on program to begin with.
I've worked out nearly everyday since Jan. 1. I'm back to running, training for a Shamrock Run 5K in March...my legs and hips are SO SORE from the increased running, but I'm meeting a physical challenge I never thought I could. I've been doing a ton of yoga and loving it. It really helps with the running soreness. I've been fitting some short and intense rebounding workouts (mini trampoline) on the weekends, as well.
I definitely HAVE to workout, along with my careful eating, in order to lose weight. While WW doesn't require exercise as part of the program, I need it.
So, here I am entering all of my meals and snacks into eTools all day long. I only have 5pts left for dinner, a common issue...It being Friday night, I'll dip into extra points or activity points for some wine tonight. Going off program and then returning brings that obsession with food that you get when you first start a weight loss program, as well. I can't stop thinking about food: What will I eat? What has only a few points? Is it time to eat? I'm SOOOOOO hungry, even though I just ate!
Aargh, I know I just need to give my body a couple of days to remember that it's not going to starve, that being hungry isn't an emergency, and to just relax and go with the flow of counting points, but I just wish I'd stayed on program to begin with.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
100 Books in 2010 Challenge
I've signed up for this challenge, and you should too!
I'll keep my list on the lower, right-hand side of this blog.
I'll keep my list on the lower, right-hand side of this blog.
Monday, January 4, 2010
A New Year, A New Start
I lost 34lbs last year. I worked hard for the first 6 months or so, then sort of gave up. I kept losing and gaining the same 4lbs over and over and over, and got tired of dealing with it. It frustrates me now, because I'd be so much closer to my goal if I'd just kept counting points and faithfully working out. Luckily, I didn't really do any damage to myself-I maintained the same weight, more or less, but it's so much harder to get back on that weightloss wagon than it is to just stay on it to begin with. I ended the year being horribly sick for several weeks, enough so that I couldn't run without breaking into fits of coughing. I'm pretty sure I hurked up a few pieces of my lungs. I ate just a little too much, I drank just a little too much, and sat around. I tried to keep doing yoga, since it didn't make me hack and hack, but it's not such a great calorie burner.
I'm getting back to good health, and we've bought some exercise equipment...a pull-up and dip station, an urban rebounder. If I ever get a treadmill for home, I can quit the stupid gym completely (I'm not really a social exerciser).
I think that waiting for New Year's to decide to change our lives is ridiculous, but I'm thinking of this as a new start. Here are the things I'm resolving to do in 2010:
1. Get back to tracking points and logging my food.
2. Following this workout schedule: M-run and upper body strength; Tu-yoga; W-run and lower body strength; Th-yoga; F-run and abs. Sat/Sun will be rebounding (either one day or both), since it's a short and intense workout.
3. Spend more time intereacting with the kids and less time pretending to listen to them while hanging out on the computer.
4. Lean a new hobby..something, anything. Knitting perhaps?
5. Find a volunteer position.
6. Remember to take my vitamins!
I'm off to a decent start so far, I've gotten a workout in every day since the 1st. I've taken a multi and my calcium. I've sent some inquiries out about volunteer jobs. However, I'm sitting here typing while the kids watch a DVD, so there's one I need to focus on. Hard.
The playgroup's off to an awesome start already, with January and February calendars nearly full already. I've missed hanging out with those ladies, and while I love the holidays, I'm glad to have our schedule back to normal.
I'm getting back to good health, and we've bought some exercise equipment...a pull-up and dip station, an urban rebounder. If I ever get a treadmill for home, I can quit the stupid gym completely (I'm not really a social exerciser).
I think that waiting for New Year's to decide to change our lives is ridiculous, but I'm thinking of this as a new start. Here are the things I'm resolving to do in 2010:
1. Get back to tracking points and logging my food.
2. Following this workout schedule: M-run and upper body strength; Tu-yoga; W-run and lower body strength; Th-yoga; F-run and abs. Sat/Sun will be rebounding (either one day or both), since it's a short and intense workout.
3. Spend more time intereacting with the kids and less time pretending to listen to them while hanging out on the computer.
4. Lean a new hobby..something, anything. Knitting perhaps?
5. Find a volunteer position.
6. Remember to take my vitamins!
I'm off to a decent start so far, I've gotten a workout in every day since the 1st. I've taken a multi and my calcium. I've sent some inquiries out about volunteer jobs. However, I'm sitting here typing while the kids watch a DVD, so there's one I need to focus on. Hard.
The playgroup's off to an awesome start already, with January and February calendars nearly full already. I've missed hanging out with those ladies, and while I love the holidays, I'm glad to have our schedule back to normal.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Blah Blah Blah
I want to blog. It's fun, interesting, and good for my brain to just let all the crap that piles up in there get out on paper. Well, not paper exactly...
Then life intereferes, and months go by where I think about how I need to go write but never actually DO go write. I never, ever miss one of my kids' well child exams, yet I can't remember to come take care of myself through writing. It's a stupid thing we women do (especially moms), making outselves into martyrs.
I've been back on-track with my weight loss program. After a LOOOOOOONG plateau, I'm back on a downward trend. My playgroup started a 12 week competition through Thintopia, and it's reignited my desire to lose more weight. In the process, I've taken up RUNNING. This is shocking, because I don't run. Not even after an ice cream truck. A friend clued me into a program that e-mails me what to run on any given day, and by the end I'll be going for 30 minutes. I'm actually doing it! I like running! It's even inspired me to try a spinning class, which is an awesome workout even with the raging sore ass the next day.
I'm also getting the chance to learn how to knit. The knitting, running and spinning are all courtesy of the above-mentioned playgroup. We'll also be taking on some philanthropic adventures for the holidays, including working a local food bank. I've been thinking about how great my new friends are. They challenge me to be better, to take care of myself, to learn new things. It's important for me to do, as a human being, and to be a better mom.
Then life intereferes, and months go by where I think about how I need to go write but never actually DO go write. I never, ever miss one of my kids' well child exams, yet I can't remember to come take care of myself through writing. It's a stupid thing we women do (especially moms), making outselves into martyrs.
I've been back on-track with my weight loss program. After a LOOOOOOONG plateau, I'm back on a downward trend. My playgroup started a 12 week competition through Thintopia, and it's reignited my desire to lose more weight. In the process, I've taken up RUNNING. This is shocking, because I don't run. Not even after an ice cream truck. A friend clued me into a program that e-mails me what to run on any given day, and by the end I'll be going for 30 minutes. I'm actually doing it! I like running! It's even inspired me to try a spinning class, which is an awesome workout even with the raging sore ass the next day.
I'm also getting the chance to learn how to knit. The knitting, running and spinning are all courtesy of the above-mentioned playgroup. We'll also be taking on some philanthropic adventures for the holidays, including working a local food bank. I've been thinking about how great my new friends are. They challenge me to be better, to take care of myself, to learn new things. It's important for me to do, as a human being, and to be a better mom.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
The Penis Mightier
Boys start early with their genitalia obsession. My 3 year old son is now fully in love with himself, and it's a battle to get him to wear pants. As we work on potty training, he often runs around naked from the waist down, and we're having to talk to him about the appropriate time and place for touching yourself. I'm a liberal, open-minded parent, but this discussion still makes me feel a little embarassed.
A few days ago, he'd been "handling" himself, and got an erection. "My penis is getting BIGGER!" he exclaimed, both shocked and impressed with himself. He's like a miniature frat boy already.
A few days ago, he'd been "handling" himself, and got an erection. "My penis is getting BIGGER!" he exclaimed, both shocked and impressed with himself. He's like a miniature frat boy already.
Monday, September 14, 2009
RIP Patrick Swayze
Why is it we feel so hearbroken when beloved celebrities die? I remember John Ritter's surprise death left me reeling for weeks. I felt like a close family member was gone. Michael Jackson was sad, too, and my husband and I played our Jackson CD's and talked about his career and life. Now Patrick Swayze. The man had pancreatic cancer, so it's not like I expected him to make some kind of miraculous recovery, yet...what is it? It's like they're larger than life, like celebrities can't possibly die. Like most girls, I grew up adoring "Dirty Dancing," arguably the best cheesy movie ever made. The music, the dancing, the lines: "Nobody puts baby in the corner!" My god, it's brilliant!
I'm sad about Patrick Swayze, it gives me this dull ache in my heart. I think that famous people feel like a part of us, since fans own just a tiny little bit of the person through their movies/music/art/books.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Children and Race
Newsweek recently ran an article about babies, children and racism. Here's the link, http://www.newsweek.com/id/214989/page/1
There are two pieces to this article, but in the end I don't really understand the shock. My family is biracial. My husband is of Indian descent, and I'm a mix, mostly German and Irish with some other white mixed in. Race is an important part of our lives, and we're very open and honest about it. We talk/joke about it between us, with our extended families, with our friends and with our kids. I will never understand people (and, yes, it's mostly white people) who think the best way to "address" the issue of people being different colors is by completely ignoring it. This is what they found in the article, that parents stick to an "everyone is the same inside" argument, and proceed to ignore race completely.
Meanwhile, they found that babies spend more time staring at photos of faces that are a different race than their parents are. This didn't indicate a preference, per se, just that even babies as young as 6 months notice that it's "out of the ordinary" from what they normally encounter. Well, pardon my language here, but no shit, sherlock.
Anyone who has children knows that even the tiniest babies notice when something is new to them. That's kind of the point of their little developing brains. Ultimately the issue here isn't that babies notice different skin colors (which I should point out, is NOT a bad thing. Noticing and talking to your kids about race and skin color is okay. In fact, it's mandatory, in my opinion), it's that they aren't getting the chance to be around people of all races.
With kids who are mixed race, I think about bigotry, faux liberalism and hidden racists all the time. I live, geographically, in an area that is pretty liberal and we rarely have any issues with other people not approving of our family. Still, my husband and brown kids are probably the only encounters most of our friends and their children have with non-white people. My guess is that this is pretty standard for most white people.
There are two pieces to this article, but in the end I don't really understand the shock. My family is biracial. My husband is of Indian descent, and I'm a mix, mostly German and Irish with some other white mixed in. Race is an important part of our lives, and we're very open and honest about it. We talk/joke about it between us, with our extended families, with our friends and with our kids. I will never understand people (and, yes, it's mostly white people) who think the best way to "address" the issue of people being different colors is by completely ignoring it. This is what they found in the article, that parents stick to an "everyone is the same inside" argument, and proceed to ignore race completely.
Meanwhile, they found that babies spend more time staring at photos of faces that are a different race than their parents are. This didn't indicate a preference, per se, just that even babies as young as 6 months notice that it's "out of the ordinary" from what they normally encounter. Well, pardon my language here, but no shit, sherlock.
Anyone who has children knows that even the tiniest babies notice when something is new to them. That's kind of the point of their little developing brains. Ultimately the issue here isn't that babies notice different skin colors (which I should point out, is NOT a bad thing. Noticing and talking to your kids about race and skin color is okay. In fact, it's mandatory, in my opinion), it's that they aren't getting the chance to be around people of all races.
With kids who are mixed race, I think about bigotry, faux liberalism and hidden racists all the time. I live, geographically, in an area that is pretty liberal and we rarely have any issues with other people not approving of our family. Still, my husband and brown kids are probably the only encounters most of our friends and their children have with non-white people. My guess is that this is pretty standard for most white people.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
If Only I Was Famous...
I could check myself into a posh rehab facility for "exhaustion" right about now. It's been a long and painful couple of weeks, and I apologize for not writing for awhile. Our only car broke down, and we decided to get something new. I love the new, crazily overpriced hunk of gas-guzzling beauty. We could buy one of our kids four years at a state university for what we're paying, and it pains me to think about it. It's also not a hybrid, something else that eats away at me. I do my best, people!
So, we have the new financial strain of a huge car payment. We're moving toward a less consumer-driven lifestyle (I know that sounds ridiculous, what with the new car and all) to make up for the hit our checking account will be taking. I'm doing the grocery game thing, hunting through sales ads to find the best deals. Planning meals around what's cheap that week, which is taking a lot of getting used to. I was a spoiled grocery shopper before, pretty much buying whatever I felt like.
I also got the flu, a very long stretch of it, and wasn't up for doing much. Thankfully my mom is around to help with the kids, because every square inch of my body ached. I'm okay now, and hoping that'll be it for our family and the flu this year. Fingers crossed...
I'm going to be volunteering at a local animal hospital starting next week. I'm excited to get back into veterinary work again, and I hope it eventually leads to a paid position.
Meanwhile, I finally lost the 4lbs I'd gained while being completely lazy on the WW plan. I feel re-energized about the whole thing, and have been getting in good workouts. Woo hoo!
So, we have the new financial strain of a huge car payment. We're moving toward a less consumer-driven lifestyle (I know that sounds ridiculous, what with the new car and all) to make up for the hit our checking account will be taking. I'm doing the grocery game thing, hunting through sales ads to find the best deals. Planning meals around what's cheap that week, which is taking a lot of getting used to. I was a spoiled grocery shopper before, pretty much buying whatever I felt like.
I also got the flu, a very long stretch of it, and wasn't up for doing much. Thankfully my mom is around to help with the kids, because every square inch of my body ached. I'm okay now, and hoping that'll be it for our family and the flu this year. Fingers crossed...
I'm going to be volunteering at a local animal hospital starting next week. I'm excited to get back into veterinary work again, and I hope it eventually leads to a paid position.
Meanwhile, I finally lost the 4lbs I'd gained while being completely lazy on the WW plan. I feel re-energized about the whole thing, and have been getting in good workouts. Woo hoo!
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Here We Are Now, Entertain Us.
What I'm into for amusing myself. I use and abuse Netflix on a daily basis, and am in love with being able to view stuff on their website. I also watch my favorite shows on Hulu (remember, we have no cable, satellite, digital converter box...read that entry, people!!). So, I read and watch DVDs and workout and surf the Net. Right now, my obsessions are:
The public library (this isn't a photo of my library, but how much do I lust after this one?!). How can you not enjoy a place that just lets you take their stuff via the honor system (okay, there's a card, and they'll track you down with their thugs if you haven't paid your fines, but you get the idea). I take the kids a few times a month for new books for all of us. We also enjoy all their free entertainment-storytime, jugglers, magicians, etc. Librarians rule.
Oh Weeds, you are my crack addiction. I started watching the first 2 seasons on Netflix, in a totally random way. The site recommended this show based on something else I'd rented, and I got hooked instantly. Season 3 had to be mailed to me, and I'm about halfway through the season 4 episodes. Mary Louise Parker is just so hot and amazing, and I love the show.
The public library (this isn't a photo of my library, but how much do I lust after this one?!). How can you not enjoy a place that just lets you take their stuff via the honor system (okay, there's a card, and they'll track you down with their thugs if you haven't paid your fines, but you get the idea). I take the kids a few times a month for new books for all of us. We also enjoy all their free entertainment-storytime, jugglers, magicians, etc. Librarians rule.
Oh Weeds, you are my crack addiction. I started watching the first 2 seasons on Netflix, in a totally random way. The site recommended this show based on something else I'd rented, and I got hooked instantly. Season 3 had to be mailed to me, and I'm about halfway through the season 4 episodes. Mary Louise Parker is just so hot and amazing, and I love the show.
I Feel Pretty, Oh So Pretty! Clothes and Accessories I Can't Live Without.
Down East Basics T-Shirts. Their camisoles are also the best you can get. I spend tons shopping on their website, and I freaking love these tees. I have them in at least 25 colors and varieties.
From HSN, Technibond® Torqued Circle Pendant in yellow gold. Gorgeous and shiny, my go-to gold necklace.
Adorable and cool peace sign necklace in silver by Jessica Hicks. If I could afford the gold one, I'd get that, too.
Ariat Fatbaby boots. If you don't see why these are cool, I just don't understand you at all.
Lucky Brand Jeans, handbags. I buy these off Ebay to save me a good fifty bucks or so, but I think they're worth retail price. Nice soft leather, it gets better with use and aging. I have this specific bag in tan, and many other bags by this company. Right now I want that slouchy hobo like the one on "Weeds."
From HSN, Technibond® Torqued Circle Pendant in yellow gold. Gorgeous and shiny, my go-to gold necklace.
Adorable and cool peace sign necklace in silver by Jessica Hicks. If I could afford the gold one, I'd get that, too.
Ariat Fatbaby boots. If you don't see why these are cool, I just don't understand you at all.
Lucky Brand Jeans, handbags. I buy these off Ebay to save me a good fifty bucks or so, but I think they're worth retail price. Nice soft leather, it gets better with use and aging. I have this specific bag in tan, and many other bags by this company. Right now I want that slouchy hobo like the one on "Weeds."
I'd Rather Die Than Not Eat and Drink These...
Argentinian Malbec wine, my latest find. I've tried several brands, the one in the photo is good. Sadly, I cannot for the life of me remember which one I had from Whole Foods that was so good I drank the entire bottle myself in one night. It didn't prevent my raging hangover headache, but was so worth it.
Seattle's Best Coffee is, hands down, the best coffee available. I should note that Starbucks now owns them, something I wish wasn't true. Anyway, their french roast is very dark and rich, and my personal heaven is a room that smells like a pot of this stuff brewing. Sigh.
If I wasn't already married, I'd propose to Hershey's Special Dark chocolate bars. Intense, yet sweet, creamy and awesome. Fairly points-friendly, too. For the regular size bar, it's just 4. I like to eat a little segment (about 1 point) a day for a little treat. Oh, and no evil high fructose corn syrup.
Pistachios are the best nuts in the history of nuts. The shells take forever to pop open, and I can eat them by the truckoad. Then they make me fart, though.
Seattle's Best Coffee is, hands down, the best coffee available. I should note that Starbucks now owns them, something I wish wasn't true. Anyway, their french roast is very dark and rich, and my personal heaven is a room that smells like a pot of this stuff brewing. Sigh.
If I wasn't already married, I'd propose to Hershey's Special Dark chocolate bars. Intense, yet sweet, creamy and awesome. Fairly points-friendly, too. For the regular size bar, it's just 4. I like to eat a little segment (about 1 point) a day for a little treat. Oh, and no evil high fructose corn syrup.
Pistachios are the best nuts in the history of nuts. The shells take forever to pop open, and I can eat them by the truckoad. Then they make me fart, though.
Things I Love...That Make Me Gorgeous.
Estee Lauder Youth Dew Bath Oil-I hardly ever get the time to have a long, hot bath. When I do, I always use this stuff. It's so earthy, sexy, interesting and complicated. It makes the whole bathroom smell amazing, and it lingers on my skin until I shower again.
Trader Joe's Shea Butter bar soap. For about three bucks, you get a huge bar of creamy, fresh, clean bubbly fun. I can't live without it.
Tom Ford Black Violet is my ultimate fragrance. It's so sexy, musky, and unique. It also costs a freaking fortune. For hot days, I've been enjoying the Bigelow Lemon, available at Bath and Body Works. Also, Sensuous is a nice warm scent for evening or a cooler day.
Act mouthwash, bubble gum flavor. I'm obsessed with mouthwash, because I have weird teeth that are prone to cavities. Dentists always tell me this is the best brand to use, but I don't like swishing for 30-60 seconds with most washes. This, however, tastes just like bubblegum. Yum!
MoroccanOil is giving me the best hair days EVER, even with the pain in the ass glass bottle.
DHC-Love them. Mild Body Shampoo is sweet and fresh, Cleansing Oil removes makeup without making your eyes burn, and White Sunscreen protects with Titanium and Zinc Oxide, but is never greasy or thick.
Aquaphor fixes everything, I tell you!
Trader Joe's Shea Butter bar soap. For about three bucks, you get a huge bar of creamy, fresh, clean bubbly fun. I can't live without it.
Tom Ford Black Violet is my ultimate fragrance. It's so sexy, musky, and unique. It also costs a freaking fortune. For hot days, I've been enjoying the Bigelow Lemon, available at Bath and Body Works. Also, Sensuous is a nice warm scent for evening or a cooler day.
Act mouthwash, bubble gum flavor. I'm obsessed with mouthwash, because I have weird teeth that are prone to cavities. Dentists always tell me this is the best brand to use, but I don't like swishing for 30-60 seconds with most washes. This, however, tastes just like bubblegum. Yum!
MoroccanOil is giving me the best hair days EVER, even with the pain in the ass glass bottle.
DHC-Love them. Mild Body Shampoo is sweet and fresh, Cleansing Oil removes makeup without making your eyes burn, and White Sunscreen protects with Titanium and Zinc Oxide, but is never greasy or thick.
Aquaphor fixes everything, I tell you!
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Book Review: Goodnight Nobody
By: Jennifer Weiner
I'll admit upfront that I adore this author, and love every single thing she writes. If she took on the job of writing catalogue descriptions, I'd buy every item. This book is a little different from her others, and she says in the "Ask The Author" section that it's far less autobiographical than what she usually writes.
The main character, Kate, is a reluctant stay-at-home-mom in an upper class, cookie-cutter suburban neighborhood. Formerly a reporter in NYC, she decides to investigate the murder of another mom in the neighborhood who she barely knew.
I can't tell you how I identified with this character. She feels lost, out of touch and bored being with her kids. Of course, that leads to endless guilt and feelings of inferiority when she's around all the other "perfect" moms who feed their kids healthy, organic snacks and provide them with constant mental stimulation. Nobody else seems to feel like she does, and her husband often treats her like she's less than a person. Oh, and tells her to join a gym (yeah, I know).
This is a great fast read, something that I devoured in just a few days.
I'll admit upfront that I adore this author, and love every single thing she writes. If she took on the job of writing catalogue descriptions, I'd buy every item. This book is a little different from her others, and she says in the "Ask The Author" section that it's far less autobiographical than what she usually writes.
The main character, Kate, is a reluctant stay-at-home-mom in an upper class, cookie-cutter suburban neighborhood. Formerly a reporter in NYC, she decides to investigate the murder of another mom in the neighborhood who she barely knew.
I can't tell you how I identified with this character. She feels lost, out of touch and bored being with her kids. Of course, that leads to endless guilt and feelings of inferiority when she's around all the other "perfect" moms who feed their kids healthy, organic snacks and provide them with constant mental stimulation. Nobody else seems to feel like she does, and her husband often treats her like she's less than a person. Oh, and tells her to join a gym (yeah, I know).
This is a great fast read, something that I devoured in just a few days.
Friday, August 7, 2009
Book Review: B As In Beauty
By: Alberto Ferreras
The story of a fat, downtrodden, depressed and self-hating woman who learns who she really is and gains confidence after becoming a successful member of an escort service. Yeah, I saw that a guy had written this book, and rolled my eyes, too. I thought, "Only a man would think that a woman would realize how great she really is by being paid to fuck old rich guys." Well, that's not really the story here. This character, Beauty ("B"), falls into employment with the agency, where the owner becomes her confidante and coach, if you will. The jobs don't involve actual sex, but she realizes that she has to love herself in order for others to see how wonderful and worthwhile she really is. The clients are the first experiences she's had with men who value her as she looks, extra weight and all.
Ferreras does a remarkably good job presenting the mind of a woman, and I actually forgot that it wasn't written by a female until I closed the cover at the end of the book (which I read in one day).
It's a good one, at least worth checking out from the library.
The story of a fat, downtrodden, depressed and self-hating woman who learns who she really is and gains confidence after becoming a successful member of an escort service. Yeah, I saw that a guy had written this book, and rolled my eyes, too. I thought, "Only a man would think that a woman would realize how great she really is by being paid to fuck old rich guys." Well, that's not really the story here. This character, Beauty ("B"), falls into employment with the agency, where the owner becomes her confidante and coach, if you will. The jobs don't involve actual sex, but she realizes that she has to love herself in order for others to see how wonderful and worthwhile she really is. The clients are the first experiences she's had with men who value her as she looks, extra weight and all.
Ferreras does a remarkably good job presenting the mind of a woman, and I actually forgot that it wasn't written by a female until I closed the cover at the end of the book (which I read in one day).
It's a good one, at least worth checking out from the library.
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