Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Savor each day

I look forward to hearing Molly talk. What will she say? What will her personality be like when she has the vocabulary to express herself? It's hard to imagine.

Of course, with Emmett is it hard to remember what he was like when he didn't talk.

Just another reminder to enjoy every stage for what it is and where you are at. Having the second child makes you savor each stage more because you remember how quickly it went by with your first.

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

Monday, March 29, 2010

Emmett and Mommy time

Yesterday I took Emmett for a haircut, while Seth and Molly went to the grocery store. I think it's the first time Emmett and I have gone out on our own since Molly was born. I just usually have the both of them with me. I forgot how much easier it is just to focus on one kid!

Anyway, I finally got Emmett go to Great Clips for a haircut, instead of the expensive kids haircut place. Don't get me wrong, I am very thankful for the kids place. It was so good to have a place where the people enjoyed the kids, they had toys to play with while you wait, cool car and airplane chairs, little tv's for the kids to watch while they got their haircut, and lollipops when they were done. All of that really helped when Emmett was not enthusiastic about getting his haircut.

But now, he really doesn't mind getting a haircut. However, he was reluctant to go to a "normal" hair salon because he wasn't sure they would have lollipops. I told them they would, and he agreed to go. YEA! Only $10 for a haircut instead of $25! Score. He did great. And they did have lollipops! (I had a dum dum in my purse just in case they didn't, though).

Saturday, March 27, 2010

You can have it all, just not all at once.

I find this to be so true in parenthood. And actually, I don't really want it "all." But working full time and a being a parent, particularly I find in being a mom, is such a tough juggling act. There are the daily struggles of keeping a good balance, but there are also the "bigger picture" struggles.

There are sacrifices I have made along the way so that I could be the mom I want to be. I have passed up job opportunities that would allow me higher pay and allow me to use my abilities more because the hours would have meant additional child care and less time with my kids. I have held my tongue in certain situations where BC (before children) I would not have, because I didn't want to jeopardize my position. I ultimately want to support my family, and be a good mom, and sometimes work goals have to come second to that.

I do believe as well that there is definitely still discrimination against moms although no one would admit it, and anyone would have a hard time proving it. As disappointing as all that can be at times, at the end of the day, I know what is most important. I will never regret any missed career opportunity if it means that I was a better mom to my kids.

Friday, March 26, 2010

Goodbye kiss

After having our neighbors over this evening, Emmett was saying goodbye to their daughter, a little girl who is about a year older than Emmett.

As they were leaving the house, Emmett says "I want to give her a kiss."

I said "Well, I don't know Emmett, you'll need to ask her, maybe you can just give her a hug."

"No, I want to give her a kiss" Emmett says.

Then the little girl puts the hood of her sweater over her face. Emmett's kiss is thwarted. He starts to cry and comes back in the house.

Poor guy. We told him that she was just shy and that not to worry about it and that she really liked playing with him. He accepted that. We couldn't help but sort of laugh to ourselves about it, though.

Why does "no" have to be said multiple times?

Whenever Emmett is doing something that he is not supposed to, like tipping his chair back from the table for instance, why do I have say "Stop doing that. Emmett, please stop. Emmett, did you hear me? Stop. Now!" And even then, he will probably do it one more time. Why is this? Why do I have to repeat myself multiple times? Very frustrating.

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

Pistachio Petit Four Cake


Today I made a cake for hubby's birthday. His birthday was actually yesterday, but since I had the day off today, and the kids were at school, we celebrated today. It was a good thing, too, because I don't know how I would have made this cake with the kids around. I think the cake turned out pretty good, however, the dark chocolate was a bit too dark for my liking. I got the recipe from Smitten Kitchen. You can see it here: http://smittenkitchen.com/2008/06/pistachio-petit-four-cake/ It was different than other cakes I have made. It was a three layer cake with ground pistachios in the batter, and between each layer was apricot preserves, marizpan and chocolate ganache.

Monday, March 22, 2010

Speaking of Ikea

I really want to go to Ikea. However, it is located about 2 hours from us. What I really want is this shoe rack that is also a bench. And a few other things for the kids. But do I really want to spend 4 hours driving and the better part of a day for a shoe rack bench? (and swedish meatballs). I always enjoy a good run through Ikea, but I have a hard time letting myself spend a whole day on such an outing.

On another note, tomorrow is hubby's birthday! And I haven't had a chance to do anything for him yet. But, I do have Wednesday off, so we are delaying his celebration by one day so that I will have a chance to make him a cake and get him a present. I wish I had more time to plan and do things like this.

Having so little time is one of the toughest thing as a parent to me. I have even learned to speed shop. I stopped by Carters on the way from work to get some spring clothes for the kids as the weather has been getting warm. But I didn't want to get home too late as little Molly goes to sleep pretty soon after I get home. So, I think I picked out about 12 outfits in about 12 minutes and I was on my way. Crazy. But who has time to browse? Browse. Maybe I will get to do some browsing in the future. What a luxury word!

Sunday, March 21, 2010

What can we do to get people to breastfeed?

I really don't understand the reasons why people chose not to breastfeed, and/or give it up so easily. Is it lack of knowing all of what they are giving up? Is it the perception that bottle is easier? What is it? And what can we do to get people to change?

Cue Sweden. Sweden has about a 90% breastfeeding rate. Why is this? Well, it helps that women are given a year of maternity leave with 80% pay, and that most workplaces are very flexible when they come back to work. Also, stores and public places are very family friendly. Look at Ikea. Ikea is a Swedish company. And they are very kid friendly by offering a playspace, family bathrooms, and they even have baby food at their cafe, among other things. But basically what it comes down to is that in Sweden they value families and they support families. We need to build a culture of breastfeeding and up our value of family. And put in place rules, spaces, and support to make this happen.

As one bumper sticker says, "Affordable healthcare starts with breastfeeding." And we all know that nothing happens unless it benefits someone financially. Breastfeeding does, not that its is the only, or even the best reason to support it. But, isn't this a no-brainer as far as something to support for good healthcare, smart children, and prevention of illness? Just saying!

Friday, March 19, 2010

Loving the warm weather

Today was a beautiful day. I took the kids out in the yard and for the first time I let Molly sit and play in the grass and check out the leaves. Emmett played on the swing and then I put Molly in the stroller and we went for a little walk in the neighborhood. Molly loves being outside and just checking everything out. Emmett loves it too.

Their new school has a focus on nature and the outdoors which I really like. They are going to be doing a school garden. And they play outside as much as they can. They also keep their playspaces natural with no playground equipment, but just things so the kids can be creative. Its great. I am signing Emmett up for swim lessons starting in May and I really hope that he will enjoy that.

Art

One of Emmett's drawings


Wednesday, March 17, 2010

It's my Friday and Emmett the artist?

Today is my Friday. I work, typically, M T and W. So tomorrow it is me and the kids. It is supposed to be a warm day so I hope to get them outdoors for a bit. There is also storytime at the local bookstore. Although, I am a bit weary of doing that again. (See earlier post called storytime)
Hopefully it will be a good day with little drama. Maybe if I feel adventurous, I may even let Emmett play with paint or playdough. Maybe.

Speaking of art, it seems Emmett has a knack for it. His teachers say he is very meticulous and detailed about his art. They also feel like his skill is beyond that of most of his classmates. I think he does a very good job as well, but I may be a bit biased. How does one tell, and at what age can you tell, if their child really has a talent for drawing? Just wondering.

And he can write his name now too!

Maybe I will scan in some of his art soon.

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Monday, March 15, 2010

I strongly dislike daylight savings time.

How do you convince a 3 year old to go to bed when they are legitimately not tired? Explaining that they will be tired and grumpy when they get up in the morning doesn't work. And mom and dad end up dealing with attitude. To me it's not worth it just to get a little more sun at the end of the day. Isn't the whole daylight savings time a bit antiquated anyways? Just saying. Time change sucks.

Sunday, March 14, 2010

Spring time

Signs of spring. Daffodils are appearing in the yard. The hydrangea is getting some green leaves. The temperature is warming up. And everything is looking a little greener. We have sprung forward on our clocks as well.

I am so glad. Sunshine and warm weather means no more keeping track of coats and hats and gloves. It means getting the veggie garden started. It means grilling out and sitting in rocking chairs. It means playing outside and going to the park. It means spring cleaning. It means cute summer clothes for the kids.

Molly is 9 1/2 months old now, and so the coming of spring also means her walking soon. She has been cruising the furniture for a while now, and is just starting to stand unassisted for a minute or so. It won't be long!

Yea spring!

Saturday, March 13, 2010

Getting paid to breastfeed

The formula companies love to send me coupons. I love to put them on ebay and make money. It's crazy. I can put a $7 coupon on ebay and sell it for $5. So, person on ebay saves $2 on their formula, and I make $5. Win. Win. It almost like getting paid to breastfeed!


Friday, March 12, 2010

Tape as toy

Emmett loves tape.

We keep a roll of painters blue tape in the kitchen. It is perfect thing to use when labeling Molly's bottles with the date for day care. Hardly a day goes by where Emmett does not ask for a piece of tape for some "project" he is working on.

Yesterday he used the tape to fashion a ribbon on a box to make it a present.

Today he taped blocks together in such a way as to make a tree.

He has also used the tape as a "hook" for a tow truck, a sticker with his name written on it, and to hang up some of his artwork, among many other things.

Who knew a roll of painters tape could provide so much fun?


Thursday, March 11, 2010

Good morning sunshine

Sleep. I am realizing that I often blog about sleep. Maybe I need to blog at times other than right before I go to bed.

In an effort to not discuss sleep, I will discuss awakening.

One of the myriad of benefits of having your baby sleep with you in the same room is that you wake up together. Molly will start stirring around, and I will wake up as she is waking up. She'll pop her head up and look at me and I'll say "Good morning, Molly!" And she will give me a nice smile.

Such a simple thing, but so nice for me and for her. I am so glad that she doesn't have to wake up in a dark room with no one there and cry to get someone to come get her. It is such a calm, peaceful and pleasant way to start the day.

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

A few things I only truly appreciate now that I am a parent

Washable crayons
wipe-able bibs
microwaves
stain remover
boppy pillow
naps
internet
baby wipes
car seats
parks and playgrounds
free time

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

Day of Rest

Usually I work Mon, Tues and Weds and the kids are in child care those days as well. Because of being short staffed at work, I had today off and I will have to work on Saturday. But, the kids still went to day care and I had a day to myself! The day started off with a visit to the chiropractor at 7:15 am (pregnancy, birth and hauling small children is not good for your back, by the way), then met up with hubby for breakfast at Bojangles. It was kinda like a date! Then he went off to work and I went back home as I needed to pump.

I had all sorts of ideas of what I could do. I could file papers, go test drive a minivan, buy some clothes for the kids, clean the garage, work on other projects. etc. But, because I was pretty tired (see previous posts discussions of lack of sleep) I decided I would enjoy the luxury of a quiet house and take a nap. At 11am I laid down for a nap. I slept hard. I didn't wake up til 2pm. Although it was longer than I thought, it was awesome! I felt so much better having had that nap. I just so needed it!

After that I just decided that today would be a day of rest, and not a day of getting projects done. Then I went out and sat in the sun for a bit. It was so nice and warm today. Then another pumping, and a little Oprah, and before I knew it, it was time to go get the kids.

I think the whole school was outside playing when I got there. As soon as she saw me, Molly speed-crawled toward me, and Emmett was excited that I was there as well. I don't usually have the opportunity to go to their school because I work 12 hour days, so my husband usually does the drop off and pick up. It is nice to have the chance to do that every now and then.

Alas, the day went by super quick. But, it was so nice to just rest, and enjoy the weather.

Monday, March 8, 2010

blogging everyday

Ok, so the thing about blogging everyday is that sometimes it is hard to know what you want to write about. Somedays it's easy. Today is not one of those days. Remember that writing exercise where you are just supposed to write whatever comes to mind? Well, that's what I'll do today:

sleepy. should I read? Watch tv? Go to bed? I like pound cake but I need a good recipe. something moist. with a glaze. My feet hurt. I walked alot today. Molly is so sweet when she is sleeping. I love my kids. I had a very tasty dinner. I am so glad that hubby likes to cook. sleepy. time for bed soon. really hope molly has a good night tonight. I get cranky when I am tired. maybe will test drive a minivan tomorrow. have to go to chiropractor, then drop off boxes. then what? not sure.sleep. enough for tonight. good nite.

Sunday, March 7, 2010

Oscar night


Well, it's Oscar night. This is another thing that has changed for me since having kids. Used to be that I would have seen most of the top movies, actually know who all the actors are, and be up on what was fashionable. Now? Not so much.

My son was born in 2006 and since then my knowledge of films has taken a nose dive. I don't think I have been to the movie theater more than 2-3 times since. Renting movies you say? Well, a few times, but really, I just can't stay up that late after the kids are in bed to watch a whole movie. And watching it in segments just takes more commitment than I have. And honestly, when the hubby and I do have date time, seeing a movie is no longer at the top of our list of things to do. We rather just go somewhere we can have a conversation without getting interrupted.

So, with even having 10 movies up for best picture, can you guess what the only one I have seen is? Yep.... "Up". Shock.. an animated film!

Saturday, March 6, 2010

sun does wonders

The sun was out today! And it was so nice. It really is amazing how much your mood can be lifted by just spending some time out in the sun. I am so looking forward to spring and getting out more.

We all went to our friend's house this afternoon where Emmett had a chance to feed some bread to their chickens. He even made a trail of bread crumbs they could follow into their coop. They have several chickens of various types, I particularly liked the one with the black and white feathers. I would like to have chickens, but it is currently against our HOA rules. Emmett loved running around and Molly took a nap in her car seat the whole visit.

Our friends had recently cut down a dead huge old oak tree in their yard, and Seth was excited to get a few pieces to take home and have for his wood projects. We also discussed our respective upcoming spring veggie garden plans as well, and exchanged some of our canned marmalade and cranberry sauce for some of their eggs and applesauce.

A nice country visit! :)

The Outliers, sleep

I am reading The Outliers right now by Malcolm Gladwell. It talks about the reasons why people are successful. Basically discussing how it is not only the individuals ability but also the people, time, place and opportunities that help them. Very interesting and well written.

On that same note, I'd like to discuss how sleep keeps me from being as successful as I could be. For example, being so tired yesterday, I didn't get a chance to blog. I was very short-tempered because I just didn't have the reserve to deal with annoyances. And here I am up at 7:30 not by choice, even though my little girl was up again from 12-1 am. Alas, to keep things on a positive note, it is Saturday and everyone is home so maybe if I am really lucky and all the stars and moon align, maybe I will get to take a nap this afternoon. And that would be awesome.

Thursday, March 4, 2010

A sentence I thought I would never say


I want to get a minivan.

Ugh. I seriously thought I would never say that. I used to think the only rational reason to get a minivan was if you had 4 kids. But I only have 2. And I want one. Here's why:

1. To be able to drive to the beach for vacation without having things shoved in the door pockets and under the passengers feet.
2. So that the back of my seat won't get kicked as easily
3. So it will be easier to toss the kids in with the sliding doors.
4. So we can buy and haul large items from Home Depot and Ikea.
5. So we can have guests go with us somewhere without having to take multiple cars.

And if I could get whatever I want, I'd like to have the leather seats for easy wipe down, and the built in DVD player.

Ok, so I may succomb to the minivan. But I swear I will never have a magnetic soccer ball, megaphone, or honor roll sticker on it...... just don't quote me on that.

Wednesday, March 3, 2010

Feeling better!

The fuzziness has gone from my head, with only residual congestion. Yea!

Have I mentioned how much I like sleep? I really miss sleeping through the night. I am looking forward to when that happens again. Last night my little angel woke up about 3:30 and ate, but didn't go back to sleep. I had to rock her in the rocking chair until about 4:30. Usually she'll just wake up to nurse and go right back to sleep. But still, I just think it will be such a luxury when I can go to bed, and not wake up until morning! I know..... they are only babies for a little while, so I will enjoy her where she is at. And she is a good snuggle buddy. But sleep is soooooooooo nice.

Dear Full Night of Sleep,
I miss you and I want you back. Please promise me you will come back to me soon. It's true what they say, absence makes the heart grow fonder. I love you. Please don't forget about me!


Tuesday, March 2, 2010

Fuzzy head

I am still sick. Have a very fuzzy head. And am not sure what to share this evening. I think I will succomb to getting sucked into Lost and try and write something interesting tomorrow. So, good nite. See ya tomorrow.

Monday, March 1, 2010

Germs.


Welp, I'm sick. Dear son has had coughs for a few days, and dear daughter had has a runny nose for several days. And now they have shared their germs with me. Just when I thought I had made it through the winter without getting any colds. I have been so vigilant about taking my multi vitamin as well as an extra C and D. And it was really working. I could tell a few times that I was fighting some germs from taking hold and they never did.

However, this one has gotten the better of me. I've gone through at least 30-40 tissues today (where does all that stuff come from anyway?). I attribute my susceptibility to the fact that I have not had good sleep recently. (See earlier post about daughters growth spurt, and remember about my son coughing? Alot! At night!= many mommy wakings.) On that note, I head to bed for as much sleep as will be allowed me. Go away germs, you are not welcome here anymore.