To all my devoted readers (maybe 7 people or so), I want to let you know that tomorrow I am leaving for a long weekend in Maryland, with my sister, my mom, and my aunts. The six of us are going to go horseback riding, which should be especially fun for Pam, who is a former veterinarian and loves horses very much. Ron and I went horseback riding a couple years ago in SMYRNA, MI (tiny tiny town), and I loved it. Although we were both feeling it the next day. This is why trotting, although slower, is worse than galloping.
We are also going to see The Phantom of the Opera at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. I have been there once before, and it is a very impressive theater. Phantom should be an exciting show. It is the longest-running production in Broadway history, and I love the music. I've seen the movie... it was pretty good. derf. I'm sure the live musical will be amazing.
There are also unofficial plans to visit the Baltimore Inner Harbor (on the Chesapeake Bay) for some fresh seafood (crab!!!!). For as many times as I've been to Maryland (maybe 4 of 5) I've never been there... so I hope we can fit that into our weekend.
I am going to miss Lucy (I'll miss Ron too, of course!), and I will plan on calling maybe once a day to maintain a connection with the homestead. I completely trust Ron to take good care of her, so it's hard to explain my need to touch base. I'm not "checking in" on him, but this will be the first time I've been away from her for more than one night, and since she is such a huge part of my life, that's not something I can just shrug off for a few days. But, I will definitely enjoy the break from my normal routine, and I know I'm going to have a lot of fun. My MIL asked me if I was going to be okay away from Lucy, if I was going to miss her, etc. Of course I will, but I think it makes a person function better as a parent if they're able to get away every now and then, mentally recharge, and come back refreshed, patient, happy, and ready to dive back in. That and a glass of wine...
When I return I will take some time to reunite with my little family, and then I'll get right to blogging. I will have plenty of photos as usual...
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Seriously
This is a van we saw on the way home from Grand Haven today. Note the wheels. Good eye, Ron.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Dismissed
Yesterday I went downtown for jury duty... I sat and waited for my number to be called - and on the 3rd round it was... so 40 of us went upstairs to a courtroom to begin "voir dire", where they start asking questions to narrow down prospective jurors. I fit into one of the conflict categories, since I have a flight coming up later this week. My conflict was approved and I was sent home for the day. I did not have to report today... but I am still going to check and see if I have to go in tomorrow. I told the clerk that I will not be able to be there Thursday and she made a note of it, so I'm half-guessing that I won't have to go back at all... what would be the point, since I won't be able to serve as a juror on a case lasting more than one day... and they just can't predict that.
It was really boring but I read a cool article about Blogs in an old issue of New York Magazine. If I have to go again, I am definitely bringing a sudoku bookl. I am just relieved that there won't be a messy conflict with my travel plans!
It was really boring but I read a cool article about Blogs in an old issue of New York Magazine. If I have to go again, I am definitely bringing a sudoku bookl. I am just relieved that there won't be a messy conflict with my travel plans!
Sunday, July 08, 2007
Interest
Yesterday we got out of the house for a little while because a different couple wanted to see it. We're still awaiting feedback. Tomorrow (Monday) is another couple - actually the husband won't be there - but we're hoping that one of these people will perhaps place a bid... Maybe we'll sell the house while I'm in Maryland!
Sippy
Lucy has started using a sippy cup successfully. My mom put chocolate milk in one and when Lucy figured out that she's suppsed to suck - not bite - the spout... she got the chocolate milk! An "ah - ha!" moment...
Friday, July 06, 2007
Jury Duty
I have been selected for Jury Duty! I postponed my Jury Duty service last year, as my appearance date was going to be right around my due date. I chose a random week the following summer to appear, and this coming Monday is the beginning of that week. Little did I know at the time that next Thursday is the day I am leaving for Maryland for our 3rd annual _____ weekend. We still haven't named it. Kelly. Anyway, my term runs through Thursday, as I have to be available for 1 trial or 1 week (if I'm not selected by Wednesday evening). If my trial ends Monday, I'm done. On the other hand, I could be a juror for the next "Trial of the Century" if something major happens in Kent County - but that's not likely.
From what I understand, most people appear for one day, and then they're off the hook. Perhaps their case is settled immediately, and there isn't even a trial to sit through. I'm hoping it's a one-day obligation, but I'm willing to "serve" through Wednesday. However, I am going to inform someone that there is absolutely no way I can serve Thursday. I hope that They are understanding about it, and don't threaten to fine or arrest me for contempt of court (both, according to my summons, they could do). I understand why random samplings of people are needed to serve as jurors (as opposed to only those who are a) desperate for money; b) have nothing else to do), but I'm not thrilled about it. Here's hoping it doesn't interfere with my plans for next weekend.
This message is on my instructions. It is meant to make me feel all warm and fuzzy about jury duty.
From what I understand, most people appear for one day, and then they're off the hook. Perhaps their case is settled immediately, and there isn't even a trial to sit through. I'm hoping it's a one-day obligation, but I'm willing to "serve" through Wednesday. However, I am going to inform someone that there is absolutely no way I can serve Thursday. I hope that They are understanding about it, and don't threaten to fine or arrest me for contempt of court (both, according to my summons, they could do). I understand why random samplings of people are needed to serve as jurors (as opposed to only those who are a) desperate for money; b) have nothing else to do), but I'm not thrilled about it. Here's hoping it doesn't interfere with my plans for next weekend.
JURY SERVICE - A VITAL FUNCTION OF DEMOCRACY
Jurty Duty is one of the most important duties that members of a free society are called upon to perform. The jury is an expression of the democtratic idea that authority can be exercised most equitably only if people participate. We think you will find jury duty to be a very interesting experience and will give you the opportunity to learn more about our system of justice and how it works.
This message is on my instructions. It is meant to make me feel all warm and fuzzy about jury duty.
Thursday, July 05, 2007
House Update
Our Realtor called today to let us know that someone saw our house and called about it, and wants to see it tomorrow night. I saw a vehicle in our driveway today and wondered if it was someone taking a look [as I quickly straightened up the dining room table, just in case]. They drove off... Our Realtor said they are a young couple, with a baby, and they do not have a Realtor of their own (so I'm guessing they are first-time buyers - which is a good thing, since we wouldn't have to wait for them to sell their house... see?). We envisioned our buyers to be young people, who might like some of the decorating / renovations we've made... looking for a starter home. More in a sense of 'who are we marketing this to'... and our Realtor(s) agree that will most likely be the case. Or old people downsizing.
We're trying not to get our hopes up, but I'm excited about there being interest in our home! We're already thinking, in the back of our minds, about when/if to lower our price, and I really don't want to have to do that. Maybe we won't have to.
Ron and I are going to get the house looking as nice as possible. It's SO hard not to get our hopes up. We are very interested in a certain home in Allendale and it feels like a race against time to try to get it. I know they had an offer which they accepted, but it fell through at the last minute because the buyer backed out! Close call! Well, back down to earth - I know when ours does sell we'll find something. Whatever is in the cards for us, I'm sure, is for a reason. Prospective buyers make us crazy! Can't help it! ** Note - they rescheduled for Monday because the husband is working super late tonight. GRRRRR. The house is super-clean and we're going to have to just keep it that way for the rest of the weekend. Oh well!
We're trying not to get our hopes up, but I'm excited about there being interest in our home! We're already thinking, in the back of our minds, about when/if to lower our price, and I really don't want to have to do that. Maybe we won't have to.
Ron and I are going to get the house looking as nice as possible. It's SO hard not to get our hopes up. We are very interested in a certain home in Allendale and it feels like a race against time to try to get it. I know they had an offer which they accepted, but it fell through at the last minute because the buyer backed out! Close call! Well, back down to earth - I know when ours does sell we'll find something. Whatever is in the cards for us, I'm sure, is for a reason. Prospective buyers make us crazy! Can't help it! ** Note - they rescheduled for Monday because the husband is working super late tonight. GRRRRR. The house is super-clean and we're going to have to just keep it that way for the rest of the weekend. Oh well!
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
No Easy Feet
I gave Lucy her first pedicure. It's not the neatest job, but considering she was moving her feet constantly... I'm happy with how it turned out!
Monday, July 02, 2007
Now We're Even!
In the previous post, you see Lucy and Lauren playing with some colorful noisy gizmo with moving parts. Lucy got a finger underneath one of those moving parts, and Lauren happened to put all her weight on it, pinching Lucy's finger. It was one of those times when Lucy had her mouth wide open for a few seconds before the actual screams began. Awww.... accidents happen, though! It's hard to let them play together too much because neither one understands that they can inflict pain.
Later on, they were playing with the same toy, and Lucy was determined to grab Lauren's lovely locks! She smiles and squeals when she "pets" things - and before we could stop her, her two fists were latched onto Lauren's hair, just like Lennie in Of Mice and Men! By the time we pried her fingers open, Lauren was crying.
.... I'm not gonna hurt him, George, honest!
I'm posting photos of them on Smugmug. Hopefully I get some more good ones this afternoon. Right now they're both down for a nap! Yeah!!!!
Later on, they were playing with the same toy, and Lucy was determined to grab Lauren's lovely locks! She smiles and squeals when she "pets" things - and before we could stop her, her two fists were latched onto Lauren's hair, just like Lennie in Of Mice and Men! By the time we pried her fingers open, Lauren was crying.
.... I'm not gonna hurt him, George, honest!
I'm posting photos of them on Smugmug. Hopefully I get some more good ones this afternoon. Right now they're both down for a nap! Yeah!!!!
2 Babies
Today we are babysitting Lucy's buddy Lauren. I swear this morning Lucy was in her walker looking out the front window, waiting for her friend! We have her today and tomorrow (although Lauren's mom is picking her up at 5:30 tonight). Lucy and Lauren are the same age, and therefore we are forcing them to be friends! Ha ha ha. So we expect them to play nice, but it's quite clear that they have very different personalities. Lucy is the agressor. I could not imagine placing them both in the playpen and turning my back, because it would become a cage-match. Then Lucy would use Lauren as a step stool to escape.
No, but really Lauren is a wonderful baby, and very content to play for long periods of time, wherever you put her (walker, exersaucer, etc.). She makes different sounds, has different gestures, and it's just really highlighting how different all babies are! We just put them both down for a nap and poor Lauren is trying to sleep in Lucy's playpen in the guest room. I don't think she is completely comfortable in a strange place, but Lisa said that she will sleep 3 hours in the morning, so I'm going to let her fall asleep. I gave her a stuffed kitty that rattles and she seems to be calming down. I'm going to try to take some "nice" photos of her at some point, maybe outside or something, to practice on someone else's baby. If Lucy can behave, I might be able to get a couple of them together.
No, but really Lauren is a wonderful baby, and very content to play for long periods of time, wherever you put her (walker, exersaucer, etc.). She makes different sounds, has different gestures, and it's just really highlighting how different all babies are! We just put them both down for a nap and poor Lauren is trying to sleep in Lucy's playpen in the guest room. I don't think she is completely comfortable in a strange place, but Lisa said that she will sleep 3 hours in the morning, so I'm going to let her fall asleep. I gave her a stuffed kitty that rattles and she seems to be calming down. I'm going to try to take some "nice" photos of her at some point, maybe outside or something, to practice on someone else's baby. If Lucy can behave, I might be able to get a couple of them together.
Sunday, July 01, 2007
Friday, June 29, 2007
Pup Art
This is our dog, Killian. I took a photo of her today, and the background was almost totally white. I turned up the highlights and the shadows and it created a silhouette-like photo (minus the collar) - so iPod-commercial-esque, eh? Anyway, I tinted it and I can do this with any colors I want. I thought it turned out pretty cool! I want to experiment with different backgrounds / effects...
Outlet
Today Ron is working a full day at Woodcraft. It's weird that it's summer and he's gone all day, but the extra income will be nice. Lucy took a 2+ hour nap this morning, and is in the middle of another equally long nap this afternoon. It'll be nice that she has 2 good naps, but I actually find myself a little bored. Hence this post.
I have been trying to stay mentally balanced being a SAHM, but for a long time I have known, at least in the back of my mind, that I need some kind of outlet - something creative, or even a job that I can work 1 night a week or something. I'd like to get more into photography down the road, so maybe a class would do me good. I don't know. I just have a hard time justifying anything that costs money, but it would probably be worthwhile if it would help me in a future "career".
It just so happens that the house we're currently infatuated with is the home of a professional photographer. When we went there for an open house, I saw some of her work on display, as well as her in-home studio. Maybe it's a sign? I don't know - it just seems like if I had similar equipment, props, camera, lighting, etc., I like to think that I have the artistic / creative "eye" that a photographer would need (please ignore the previous post in this regard!!!)... and I can see myself having a lot of fun doing that. It might not bring in a huge income, but it would be fulfilling for me, and allow me to have a very flexible schedule. We're not interested in perpetually becoming richer and richer, as long as we're happy. Afterall, teachers are notoriously underpaid, but I can't see Ron wanting to do anything else...
In the meantime, I should probably get a little more serious with an actual class or workshop that could teach me a few new things, and maybe sometime I'll be able to acquire another camera (although I would still use the current one for everyday snapshots and video clips... and the fact that it's so tiny makes it especially convenient to carry).
Well, back to my putsing.
I have been trying to stay mentally balanced being a SAHM, but for a long time I have known, at least in the back of my mind, that I need some kind of outlet - something creative, or even a job that I can work 1 night a week or something. I'd like to get more into photography down the road, so maybe a class would do me good. I don't know. I just have a hard time justifying anything that costs money, but it would probably be worthwhile if it would help me in a future "career".
It just so happens that the house we're currently infatuated with is the home of a professional photographer. When we went there for an open house, I saw some of her work on display, as well as her in-home studio. Maybe it's a sign? I don't know - it just seems like if I had similar equipment, props, camera, lighting, etc., I like to think that I have the artistic / creative "eye" that a photographer would need (please ignore the previous post in this regard!!!)... and I can see myself having a lot of fun doing that. It might not bring in a huge income, but it would be fulfilling for me, and allow me to have a very flexible schedule. We're not interested in perpetually becoming richer and richer, as long as we're happy. Afterall, teachers are notoriously underpaid, but I can't see Ron wanting to do anything else...
In the meantime, I should probably get a little more serious with an actual class or workshop that could teach me a few new things, and maybe sometime I'll be able to acquire another camera (although I would still use the current one for everyday snapshots and video clips... and the fact that it's so tiny makes it especially convenient to carry).
Well, back to my putsing.
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Every Parent's Dream
I've been keeping this under wraps, but I thought I'd reveal the all-time worst picture I've ever taken. We are not encouraging this kind of behavior...
It's just one of those precious moments caught by snapping lots of quick photos (this was back in May)...
For cuter photos, and proof that Lucy is not always this naughty, click here.
It's just one of those precious moments caught by snapping lots of quick photos (this was back in May)...
For cuter photos, and proof that Lucy is not always this naughty, click here.
"Date" Night!
Last night my mom watched Lucy overnight so that we (I) could have a break, go out after Ron's softball game, etc... How'd our night off go? Here's a synopsis:
First of all - why am I so sad as I back down the driveway at my parents' house - my mom is holding Lucy and she is looking directly at me, with a confused and somewhat angry expression. I watch her getting smaller in my windshield and miss her as soon as I hit the road. Ugh! I just want to have fun... so I put that pissed off little face aside and quickly remembered that she'll have fun with Grandma and Grandpa, and I'll see her tomorrow.
Ron's team played the Team That Shouldn't Be In Their Division - a team that can hit a ball to make it purposely land in a dixie cup sitting in the outfield. All the pro gear... Checkered Flag Automotive 3, Other Team 17 (mercied in 5 innings). No, really... what was that team's name? Can't remember, but they're going to win the whole tournament. Last time they beat CFA 28-2, so the boys did a little better this time around. Yay.
Afterward we brought Ron's mom home. She had been dropped off by a friend. Also in attendance: Tom, Renee, Jacob, Hannah, and Emily! So the Ronnie fanclub was in full force. Including Renee shouting to "Ronnie" in a mock-English accent. I could tell he was trying to ignore his family. He said he has spent 3 years convincing his teammates he is normal... and they're all going to undo his efforts in one evening!
Then we went to Buffalo Wild Wings with Dave, Keith, Ryan, and Andrea. I had a Boston Lager and Chips & Salsa. When we left we stopped and talked with Keith in the parking lot, and as I was talking about a fireplace we saw (nevermind) he interrupted me MID-SENTENCE with "Why did you cut your hair?!" Whaa! I like my hair! You don't like it? ... No, it's just different, you've always had long hair ... I know, I wanted a change! ... No, no, it looks good, I'm just not used to it ...
Good old Keith, so much to learn about women still! You ALWAYS say you like a girl's hair, even if you don't! Ha ha ha. I do like my hair, and I think it makes my face look better. I've had long hair since I was 3 and I was sick of it. It's chin-length, by the way, I just can't quite put it in a ponytail (which was the point...). Anyway, so all in all it was a good evening, lots of laughs, and I got to sleep in till 8:30!
photo of my hair, per Kelly's request
First of all - why am I so sad as I back down the driveway at my parents' house - my mom is holding Lucy and she is looking directly at me, with a confused and somewhat angry expression. I watch her getting smaller in my windshield and miss her as soon as I hit the road. Ugh! I just want to have fun... so I put that pissed off little face aside and quickly remembered that she'll have fun with Grandma and Grandpa, and I'll see her tomorrow.
Ron's team played the Team That Shouldn't Be In Their Division - a team that can hit a ball to make it purposely land in a dixie cup sitting in the outfield. All the pro gear... Checkered Flag Automotive 3, Other Team 17 (mercied in 5 innings). No, really... what was that team's name? Can't remember, but they're going to win the whole tournament. Last time they beat CFA 28-2, so the boys did a little better this time around. Yay.
Afterward we brought Ron's mom home. She had been dropped off by a friend. Also in attendance: Tom, Renee, Jacob, Hannah, and Emily! So the Ronnie fanclub was in full force. Including Renee shouting to "Ronnie" in a mock-English accent. I could tell he was trying to ignore his family. He said he has spent 3 years convincing his teammates he is normal... and they're all going to undo his efforts in one evening!
Then we went to Buffalo Wild Wings with Dave, Keith, Ryan, and Andrea. I had a Boston Lager and Chips & Salsa. When we left we stopped and talked with Keith in the parking lot, and as I was talking about a fireplace we saw (nevermind) he interrupted me MID-SENTENCE with "Why did you cut your hair?!" Whaa! I like my hair! You don't like it? ... No, it's just different, you've always had long hair ... I know, I wanted a change! ... No, no, it looks good, I'm just not used to it ...
Good old Keith, so much to learn about women still! You ALWAYS say you like a girl's hair, even if you don't! Ha ha ha. I do like my hair, and I think it makes my face look better. I've had long hair since I was 3 and I was sick of it. It's chin-length, by the way, I just can't quite put it in a ponytail (which was the point...). Anyway, so all in all it was a good evening, lots of laughs, and I got to sleep in till 8:30!
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
9 Month Checkup
Today Lucy had to go see Dr. Taylor again - this time at the Fulton location (where my mom used to take Kelly and me). Lucy was measured and weighed - and she is continuing to measure off the charts for length, and around 80th percentile for weight - 20 lb 14.5 oz.! Wow!!! I can't believe she is almost 21 pounds. Mostly because I remember my arms getting tired when she was 10 pounds, carrying her around all the time, lifting her, etc. Now I know my arms must be much stronger...
She had to get two shots, and she was already cranky from all the prodding and crinkly paper on the table... so Ron got to witness the spectacle of immunizations (only 2 this time). She squeezed her eyes shut and had her mouth wide open, but no sound was coming out for the first few seconds... then a deep breath and an ear-piercing shriek that I'm sure scared all the kids in the waiting room. There's no way she could hear our comforting words over the sound of her screams...
We didn't really have any questions about her development, other than her little navel hernia that still popping out, especially after a big meal. The doctor thinks it will vanish on its own before too much longer.
We gave her a bottle right after her shots to calm her down, and then walked around the grounds by John Ball Zoo (but didn't go into the zoo itself)... and by the way, it is hot today! We came home and now she's sound asleep. Next time we go back, she'll be 1 year old!
She had to get two shots, and she was already cranky from all the prodding and crinkly paper on the table... so Ron got to witness the spectacle of immunizations (only 2 this time). She squeezed her eyes shut and had her mouth wide open, but no sound was coming out for the first few seconds... then a deep breath and an ear-piercing shriek that I'm sure scared all the kids in the waiting room. There's no way she could hear our comforting words over the sound of her screams...
We didn't really have any questions about her development, other than her little navel hernia that still popping out, especially after a big meal. The doctor thinks it will vanish on its own before too much longer.
We gave her a bottle right after her shots to calm her down, and then walked around the grounds by John Ball Zoo (but didn't go into the zoo itself)... and by the way, it is hot today! We came home and now she's sound asleep. Next time we go back, she'll be 1 year old!
Sunday, June 24, 2007
The Girl Who Cried Teeth
It seems like Lucy's teeth have been about to break through the surface for a few months now... "they look so close!", and at times she would have little flare-ups that led us to think that her teeth would appear any day. Days, weeks, months go by... and she's still gumming her Graduates.
Over the last 2 days she has spent most of her waking moments crying - except when we are in a strange new place, or we find some way to distract her with something interesting. She stops for a couple minutes, and then realizes that she's supposed to be upset, and resumes. This really isn't like her, so our first theory is that her teeth - at least a couple of them - will break through soon... but I'll believe it when it happens. I've heard this story before....
Over the last 2 days she has spent most of her waking moments crying - except when we are in a strange new place, or we find some way to distract her with something interesting. She stops for a couple minutes, and then realizes that she's supposed to be upset, and resumes. This really isn't like her, so our first theory is that her teeth - at least a couple of them - will break through soon... but I'll believe it when it happens. I've heard this story before....
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Checkered Flag Automotive Destroys Palermo's Pizza!
In the words of Ice Cube - Today was a good day. Lucy went in the pool for the very first time! All we had on hand was regular Pampers, so her diaper swelled up to the size of a phonebook, but no harm done. I was actually rather impressed with the amount of liquid a quality diaper can contain. Anyway, Lucy loved it - and wasn't even nervous or grabby or anything - she even dunked her own face in the water! We took many photos to remember this, yet another "first". As you can see, she is not wearing a life-vest, but rest assured we had a good grip on her at all times. She IS wearing one of her new swimsuits from Aunt Kelly... very stylish!
After a couple hours of bumming around, Ron had his softball game against Palermo's Pizza (3-4 before tonight), and Checkered Flag Automotive (Ron's Team) beat them 16-10! Their first victory of the season! Way to go, Checkered Flag Automotive (doesn't that just roll off the tongue? ha ha)! Since the game was at 6:15, Lucy and I were able to go (and see Lisa and her baby Lauren, who is only a few days older than Lucy)... I took photos at the game, but only a couple are actually OF the game... the rest are of the girls.
Here is a photo of some of the guys... Ron is #10.
When we returned home, we had a message from our Realtor saying that someone wants a private showing at 10:30 tomorrow morning (with their Realtor) - OK! Trying not to get our hopes up, but it has boosted morale somewhat, knowing that there are interested people out there. Tonight, we clean.
After a couple hours of bumming around, Ron had his softball game against Palermo's Pizza (3-4 before tonight), and Checkered Flag Automotive (Ron's Team) beat them 16-10! Their first victory of the season! Way to go, Checkered Flag Automotive (doesn't that just roll off the tongue? ha ha)! Since the game was at 6:15, Lucy and I were able to go (and see Lisa and her baby Lauren, who is only a few days older than Lucy)... I took photos at the game, but only a couple are actually OF the game... the rest are of the girls.
When we returned home, we had a message from our Realtor saying that someone wants a private showing at 10:30 tomorrow morning (with their Realtor) - OK! Trying not to get our hopes up, but it has boosted morale somewhat, knowing that there are interested people out there. Tonight, we clean.
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Strong Legs, Long Hair!
This evening we had to find a way to keep Lucy entertained for a little while longer, before it was time for her to go to bed. She can get bored/frustrated easily, so we went outside where there is always something new to look at, and it's easy for her to romp around. We spent some time making her practice standing and like the amazing child she is, she got better and better by the minute. I had to run inside and grab the camera:
She actually can stand for several seconds before tipping over (at which point Ron quickly catches her and straightens her back up). She mostly did this when she was trying to go for one of the dogs (we were dogsitting Kelsey today). Some of our other photos show her waving at them (another new trick she likes to do - even if there is no one waving to her!)....
The other news: I got a barrette to stay in her hair! I know it's not really necessary, but since her hair has just enough length to it, I thought it was worth a shot... I can't wait until it's long enough for braids and ponytails!
Sunday, June 17, 2007
A Long, Long Time Ago...
...Babies ate "real" food.
This is my Star Wars style photographic take on Gerber Graduates.
They're a LIFE SAVER so I don't care if I can't pronounce half of the ingredients. And what is "purple carrot extract"? Where can I buy some of these purple carrots? And what contribution can they possibly make at the end of that long list of ingredients? It's like, "hmmm... this recipe is close, but it's missing something." They sure are cute though... see?
Happy Fathers Day!
We spent the day at Grand Haven State Park - photos here - hanging out on the beach, walking down the boardwalk, and basically just relaxing. We were all smart about sunblock usage and Lucy was a good sport all day, even though (because of where we were) she didn't get much sleep. She played in the water and had a great time, and even got to sample some of my snow-cone...
Today is also, of course, Fathers Day, and although I can't buy him anything from a store, I like to think that this first Fathers Day our daughter is gift enough. Ron is such a wonderful dad to Lucy, and absolutely, shamelessly loves her. Early in our relationship I could tell that someday he would be a great father, and now that he is, I am so glad I married him. I look forward to all the moments we will share watching Lucy (and hopefully another child too!) grow up...
Saturday, June 16, 2007
Open Houses Galore!
Today we spent the morning (somewhat frantically) preparing for the open house - the last-minute stuff... A lot of cleaning, mostly. Then when our realtor arrived, we took off to visit someone else's open house (home for sale). LOVED the house! We played it cool though, but ever since we left we've been obsessing. I really hope it's still around when/if ours sells! It's an amazing deal, and a perfect type/size/location for us. We went to a few students' open houses, and then visited 3 more homes that we were interested in (all in Jenison, private showings). The Allendale house, however, was a tough act to follow. One of them in Jenison is still quite nice, but often the photos on www.grar.com are misleading, so there were a couple disappointing factors (and a couple nice surprises). We're mostly concerned with location, but all houses have pros and cons.
Our poor little Lucy was dragged around all day from place to place, after only sleeping a half hour this afternoon ... not her usual 1.5 - 2 hour afternoon nap! I think it's because we were at my parents' house (since we had to get out of our own home) and sometimes she doesn't nap as well there. She was actually falling asleep instantly in the car, when we went from one house to the next. We had to wake her up and carry her around inside another home... I'm thinking it would have been bad parenting to leave her alone in the car, even though she was sleeping peacefully...
Anyway, so tonight Ron and Ricky swam in our nearly-clean pool and we were both just thinking about how nice it would be if someone wanted to buy our house. Neither one of us were very talkative, mostly because of fatigue, but also because I think it's on our minds... when there is something you want, and it's within reach, but we have to be patient and try to sell our own home first. I guess the open house was fairly slow - but we're hoping that someone out there is watching our listing and will want to come and see it another time. It's only been a week and a half, but I am surprised at how anxious it makes us. There's not a whole lot we can do about it... in time, the right person will come along, and when that happens, there will be a house out there for us, somewhere, and it will be a very happy and exciting time.
Our poor little Lucy was dragged around all day from place to place, after only sleeping a half hour this afternoon ... not her usual 1.5 - 2 hour afternoon nap! I think it's because we were at my parents' house (since we had to get out of our own home) and sometimes she doesn't nap as well there. She was actually falling asleep instantly in the car, when we went from one house to the next. We had to wake her up and carry her around inside another home... I'm thinking it would have been bad parenting to leave her alone in the car, even though she was sleeping peacefully...
Anyway, so tonight Ron and Ricky swam in our nearly-clean pool and we were both just thinking about how nice it would be if someone wanted to buy our house. Neither one of us were very talkative, mostly because of fatigue, but also because I think it's on our minds... when there is something you want, and it's within reach, but we have to be patient and try to sell our own home first. I guess the open house was fairly slow - but we're hoping that someone out there is watching our listing and will want to come and see it another time. It's only been a week and a half, but I am surprised at how anxious it makes us. There's not a whole lot we can do about it... in time, the right person will come along, and when that happens, there will be a house out there for us, somewhere, and it will be a very happy and exciting time.
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Time-Out
No, I'm not talking about discipline... we're just baaaaarely starting to introduce light forms of that in our home. I'm talking about the kind of time-out you have to take when things are getting crazy and you need to hit a mental "reset" button.
In the midst of fixing a broken section of our countertop, and Ricky stopping by numerous times (and consuming equally numerous Flav-or-Ice sticks), the excessive heat, and more phone calls that we usually get in an entire week, we decided to stop and take Lucy outside to play. We sat and watched her climb on our laps, pull grass out of the ground, and gently crinkle up dried leaves, and it was just so calming and simple. I made a blade of grass into a whistle between my thumbs, and she was totally amazed! It's been a while since I even tried that...
For some reason that time outside this afternoon keeps replaying in my brain. Hopefully it will be a reminder of what's important.
In the midst of fixing a broken section of our countertop, and Ricky stopping by numerous times (and consuming equally numerous Flav-or-Ice sticks), the excessive heat, and more phone calls that we usually get in an entire week, we decided to stop and take Lucy outside to play. We sat and watched her climb on our laps, pull grass out of the ground, and gently crinkle up dried leaves, and it was just so calming and simple. I made a blade of grass into a whistle between my thumbs, and she was totally amazed! It's been a while since I even tried that...
For some reason that time outside this afternoon keeps replaying in my brain. Hopefully it will be a reminder of what's important.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Dashed
This afternoon we were sitting in our living room, when suddenly an unfamiliar pickup truck slowed down and came to a stop in front of our house. We anxiously sat still, as if a wagon full of free pool chemicals was parked in our driveway and if we ran out there too suddenly it would disappear. I think I was even talking without moving my lips. Lucy continued to squeal and climb up the sides of her playpen. Shhh!
Then I noticed the guy got out of his truck ::car door shut:: and walked across the street to talk with our neighbor, who is in his front yard. What is he asking? What is our neighbor saying? Then along comes Ricky. Ohh, Ricky. What do you want now? Then a door-to-door salesman wants to sell Ron some cooking supplies. Get away! We might have an interested potential buyer. Then the buzzing street cart gang decided to hit the pavement (there are more, newer, louder machines than ever! I seriously think I saw a dune-buggy)... Oh this is going to attract someone to live here! Ugh. So I motion Ricky to come in through the breezeway so I can learn what he snoopily discovered about the strange pickup truck man. Aaaaaand... It's the former owner.
I imagine he was told, "hey dude, your old house is for sale" and wanted to come by and see how we have destroyed his knotty pine palace and turned it into a drywalled monstrosity. Well, nevertheless I tidied up, just in case he requested entrance. Ricky thinks maybe he's interested in buying it back. Oh, to be 14. So we're still hoping for a legitimate creepy slow-moving vehicle to drive by. What a tease.
Then I noticed the guy got out of his truck ::car door shut:: and walked across the street to talk with our neighbor, who is in his front yard. What is he asking? What is our neighbor saying? Then along comes Ricky. Ohh, Ricky. What do you want now? Then a door-to-door salesman wants to sell Ron some cooking supplies. Get away! We might have an interested potential buyer. Then the buzzing street cart gang decided to hit the pavement (there are more, newer, louder machines than ever! I seriously think I saw a dune-buggy)... Oh this is going to attract someone to live here! Ugh. So I motion Ricky to come in through the breezeway so I can learn what he snoopily discovered about the strange pickup truck man. Aaaaaand... It's the former owner.
I imagine he was told, "hey dude, your old house is for sale" and wanted to come by and see how we have destroyed his knotty pine palace and turned it into a drywalled monstrosity. Well, nevertheless I tidied up, just in case he requested entrance. Ricky thinks maybe he's interested in buying it back. Oh, to be 14. So we're still hoping for a legitimate creepy slow-moving vehicle to drive by. What a tease.
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
After All These Sunburns... er... Years
I spent most of the day with Lucy in Grand Haven, visiting my mom, and some of her friends who also stay out there in there RV's, lounge around on the beach, wander up and down the boardwalk, etc. Of course I kept Lucy protected with sunblock and a hat, and as much shade as possible. I returned home with her in perfect condition. I can't say the same for myself however, since I neglected to put sunblock on my legs, and paid dearly. I thought (the same stupid thought I always have my first time to the beach), "I could use a little color". Now I have a distinct line where my shorts ended and my bare legs began. I tried to make up the difference with some sunless tanner. We'll see how that turns out... but I'm not getting my hopes up. No matter what I do, I'm going to look like I have hot pink thigh-high hosiery on for the next few days.
Being at the park, and going for a walk down the boardwalk, always brings back memories of the summers we would "camp" out there. We spent the days with our friends eating Pronto Pups, ice-cream, Hawaiian ice, various other junk food, and then burning it off by riding bikes, rollerblading, playing in the lake, harassing the rangers, having water balloon fights... Kelly always ended up with some kind of high-quality major purchase like a Swatch watch or a Stüssy hat (does that say 90's or what!?), while most of my allowance went toward the afformentioned junk food. I have no regrets.
Being at the park, and going for a walk down the boardwalk, always brings back memories of the summers we would "camp" out there. We spent the days with our friends eating Pronto Pups, ice-cream, Hawaiian ice, various other junk food, and then burning it off by riding bikes, rollerblading, playing in the lake, harassing the rangers, having water balloon fights... Kelly always ended up with some kind of high-quality major purchase like a Swatch watch or a Stüssy hat (does that say 90's or what!?), while most of my allowance went toward the afformentioned junk food. I have no regrets.The kids are grown up, and now just the moms continue to stay each summer at this beach front parking-lot community. Some head out to visit for a day here and there, like I did today... but I can't say I enjoy it the same way I used to. Now when I go, more than anything I 
enjoy the trip down memory lane. I can recall specific events from specific spots along the way... literally, like, right here is where I wiped out on my bike and skinned my knee (I still have a scar) and walked all the way back to the campground alone... because (I was possibly being a baby but) no one cared. And there is where I stood and watched the Northern Lights one night, and there's where we buried a time capsule by a small cottonwood tree...
In lieu of photos from today (since I didn't get any good ones) I am including a sampling from the past. Some awkward tween years, perhaps, but classic, fun times.
enjoy the trip down memory lane. I can recall specific events from specific spots along the way... literally, like, right here is where I wiped out on my bike and skinned my knee (I still have a scar) and walked all the way back to the campground alone... because (I was possibly being a baby but) no one cared. And there is where I stood and watched the Northern Lights one night, and there's where we buried a time capsule by a small cottonwood tree...In lieu of photos from today (since I didn't get any good ones) I am including a sampling from the past. Some awkward tween years, perhaps, but classic, fun times.
Monday, June 11, 2007
A Case of the Mondays
Today has been one of those days. I'm sure all of you have had worse days, but relative to our daily normal routine, it's been somewhat exhausting (including sucky trim-painting up really high on a ladder, paintbrush taped to a pool pole... sun in your eyes). We're trying to get some jobs done before our open house on Saturday, and some of those jobs require 2 people, which means the best time to do such things is during Lucy's ever-decreasing naps. She takes a short one in the morning, and if things go according to plan, a longer one in the afternoon. A couple of barking dogs later, the afternoon nap was cut short and from that point things continued. Ron gave Lucy peaches for part of her dinner, and although we both would think that isn't a problem, they just don't seem to sit well. Upset tummy + not enough nappy = baby won't stop crying. I even busted out the ol' Gloworm, which held her attention for several minutes. An early bath and bedtime for Lucy. She seems pleased to be down for the evening, and risking lightning striking me from Heaven, I am pleased as well. She can be such a happy girl 95% of the time, but tonight she was against the odds. Time for my glass of wine.
The highlight: meeting someone from the hippy commune across the street when her dog came to make friends with our dog.
The highlight: meeting someone from the hippy commune across the street when her dog came to make friends with our dog.
Saturday, June 09, 2007
Open Houses
Today Ron and I are going to try to make it to 2 student open houses. It's hard to justify going to some and not to others, except for the fact that we have lives of our own. Sometimes students forget about that; they think that once school is out, teachers have nothing to do but start lesson plans for next fall, and scheme up ways to make teenagers' lives miserable. Someday we hope they grow up and aren't so shocked when they run into Ron at the grocery store (buying BEER! Oh NO!).
Next weekend we might actually be able to go to a few more, since we're having an open house of our own. We're supposed to get out of here for a few hours while complete strangers walk through and critique our paint colors, tiling jobs, DVD collection... We're going to have to be mindful of what is hidden in cupboards and drawers as well, since there is always a chance someone will peek to see what kind of space we have (and how organized we are... or aren't). We don't want one of our neighbors finding the penis-shaped bottle opener Ron's sister gave me for part of a wedding shower gift... not that it matters, since hopefully we'll be moving this summer. I guess I just worry too much about what others think! Ha ha... well, maybe not that much since I just advertised the fact on the Internet. Have a nice day.
Next weekend we might actually be able to go to a few more, since we're having an open house of our own. We're supposed to get out of here for a few hours while complete strangers walk through and critique our paint colors, tiling jobs, DVD collection... We're going to have to be mindful of what is hidden in cupboards and drawers as well, since there is always a chance someone will peek to see what kind of space we have (and how organized we are... or aren't). We don't want one of our neighbors finding the penis-shaped bottle opener Ron's sister gave me for part of a wedding shower gift... not that it matters, since hopefully we'll be moving this summer. I guess I just worry too much about what others think! Ha ha... well, maybe not that much since I just advertised the fact on the Internet. Have a nice day.
Thursday, June 07, 2007
Dora the Saleswoman
Kelly sent me this article from New York Magazine about kids and TV viewing. While I think that most things are alright in moderation, it's worth reading, especially if your child(ren) becomes a little too infatuated with characters and all the associated goodies... and less interested in the world around them.
It's Official
Today our Realtor came over to fill out some more paperwork, we gave her a CD with photos, descriptions, etc. for the listing on grar.com and she put the sign in our yard and everything! I guess that's normal... but it seems very strange to us. There's a sign in our yard. Sometime tomorrow morning our home will be among the other 7 million homes in our neighborhood that are listed online, and we are hoping that somehow, someway, ours will appear more attractive to a buyer than those other houses. Maybe another young couple, looking for a house that doesn't transport them back to 1977, and is duped into thinking owning a pool would be a lot of "fun"... (any potential buyers out there in blogland, a pool is awesome, and I just don't know how we'll survive without one).Speaking of our totally great super pool, we finally found time to start vacuuming up the sludge that accumulated over the winter, and the water is looking good! We've been vacuuming to waste, so it's on a hiatus while the water level gets filled back up. Later this afternoon (when it's not 90 degrees out) we hope to finish that up, and get the chemicals in, get things churning.
Today is the first day of summer vacation for Grandville Schools. It's weird to think we're at that point in the year already. Yesterday as I was driving, around 11:00 a.m. I noticed teenagers on skateboards and thought, "hey, shouldn't you punks be in school?" and I realized that for the next three months teenagers, skateboards, motorized scooters, and dune-buggies will all be much more prevalent on good old Taft Avenue. As well as the ice-cream truck (which plays Christmas carols in 4-, maybe 8-bit sound). Ahh.... summertime.
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Reflection
This was just a random snapshot, actually it wasn't even a "keeper", originally, because Lucy isn't looking at the camera, and she has her fingers in her mouth (again) but I ramped up the contrast, tinted it purple (just for fun) and, with the mirror behind them, it turned out pretty nice.
Drastic Move
We took the television out of the living room!
As Ron was doing some work behind the TV (patching a hole) he apparently freaked out and lost his mind with all the cords, and the dust, and general mess in that corner of the room - the sagging IKEA TV stand, the monolithic TV that sat upon it... so we decided to try life without Everybody Loves Raymond reruns.
Amazing thing: we actually had an enjoyable evening, listening to music and talking... I felt almost zero stress (which seems to add up for me at night). We set up my Bose stereo on a small table, so we can still listen to our stored music from the computer (through the AudioTron), and the sound quality is, of course, much better since we're using the Bose, and not my old-school Sony tower speakers. Why didn't we do this earlier?
It was funny, instead of staring at the TV, I caught us both staring at the stereo. Old habits die hard.
Lucy will have to do without Sesame Street for the time being, at least until we move. I'm having a harder time without Today, but I have enjoyed listening to more music, and the increased spaciousness of the living room... so it's a manageable trade-off.
We aren't completely in the Stone Age - we have a smaller (in my opinion, "normal" sized) TV upstairs, so there are occasions where we'll be able to see what's going on in the world, or at least watch old episodes of The Wonder Years.
As Ron was doing some work behind the TV (patching a hole) he apparently freaked out and lost his mind with all the cords, and the dust, and general mess in that corner of the room - the sagging IKEA TV stand, the monolithic TV that sat upon it... so we decided to try life without Everybody Loves Raymond reruns.
Amazing thing: we actually had an enjoyable evening, listening to music and talking... I felt almost zero stress (which seems to add up for me at night). We set up my Bose stereo on a small table, so we can still listen to our stored music from the computer (through the AudioTron), and the sound quality is, of course, much better since we're using the Bose, and not my old-school Sony tower speakers. Why didn't we do this earlier?It was funny, instead of staring at the TV, I caught us both staring at the stereo. Old habits die hard.
Lucy will have to do without Sesame Street for the time being, at least until we move. I'm having a harder time without Today, but I have enjoyed listening to more music, and the increased spaciousness of the living room... so it's a manageable trade-off.
We aren't completely in the Stone Age - we have a smaller (in my opinion, "normal" sized) TV upstairs, so there are occasions where we'll be able to see what's going on in the world, or at least watch old episodes of The Wonder Years.
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
No, My Computer Isn't Broken...
I just haven't had a whole lot to write about - same old, same old around here.
We've been working on the pool. Ugh. It's green, but that's normal for just opening it. The good thing is: no leaves in the pool. So, as long as we can vacuum up the algae and get things moving, it should clear up much more easily this year. It's just so much work (maybe other pool-owners out there have had an easier time, but) for us if it's not one thing, it's another... something in our filter broke so Ron had to buy a new part. Now everything is working fine... we just find it difficult to devote time to the pool with a lot of other projects going on. Today, however, we should be able to make some real progress.
Apparently school is canceled (exams) for East Kentwood grades 9-12 today, but no word on why that is. The call went out early this morning, and the superintendent said he was going to talk about why at 7:00 a.m., but then it got bumped to 10:00 a.m. All the secrecy has me very curious. Of course, it's not weather related. If it was something like a water or power outage, they would have said so. Parents and media have been calling and school officials refuse to say anything! Isn't that odd?
We've been working on the pool. Ugh. It's green, but that's normal for just opening it. The good thing is: no leaves in the pool. So, as long as we can vacuum up the algae and get things moving, it should clear up much more easily this year. It's just so much work (maybe other pool-owners out there have had an easier time, but) for us if it's not one thing, it's another... something in our filter broke so Ron had to buy a new part. Now everything is working fine... we just find it difficult to devote time to the pool with a lot of other projects going on. Today, however, we should be able to make some real progress.
Apparently school is canceled (exams) for East Kentwood grades 9-12 today, but no word on why that is. The call went out early this morning, and the superintendent said he was going to talk about why at 7:00 a.m., but then it got bumped to 10:00 a.m. All the secrecy has me very curious. Of course, it's not weather related. If it was something like a water or power outage, they would have said so. Parents and media have been calling and school officials refuse to say anything! Isn't that odd?
Friday, June 01, 2007
Da Ga G'hee Ya Dee...
Our "baby" is 8 months old today, and finally - Lucy is using consonants (mostly D's and G's... c'mon give me an "M")! For the longest time she would "talk" using plenty of inflection and different patterns, but all vowel sounds (and yes, sometimes Y!). We were trying so hard to get her to form other letters - if you can picture us in her face, her in the high-chair, while we slowly and loudly say "Dog-gie" "Da-Da" "Ma-Ma"! She would just smile and squeal and put her hands in our mouths, trying to check out those square white hard things in there.... (where can I get some of those?, she's thinking). The past couple of days, however, she has started to figure out how her mouth can be used as more than just a way in for food, and she's quite a chatterbox! It's so cute to finally hear her little voice more...
Last night we let her destroy a small coupon magazine that came in the mail, and she was having way too much fun. How do we teach her the difference between paper that's okay to rip and crinkle, and precious books that we want (we're ignorant fools, I know) to keep in mint condition? Anyway, I had never heard her babble so much. We kept looking at each other, like, "are you hearing this?!"
Then she pulled herself up to standing by the couch. Crap! Ron, are you ready to catch her? You got her, right? I don't want her to smack her head on the floor!
It's just a matter of time before she ventures away from the furniture, chasing after the "Da-gee"...
Last night we let her destroy a small coupon magazine that came in the mail, and she was having way too much fun. How do we teach her the difference between paper that's okay to rip and crinkle, and precious books that we want (we're ignorant fools, I know) to keep in mint condition? Anyway, I had never heard her babble so much. We kept looking at each other, like, "are you hearing this?!"
Then she pulled herself up to standing by the couch. Crap! Ron, are you ready to catch her? You got her, right? I don't want her to smack her head on the floor!
It's just a matter of time before she ventures away from the furniture, chasing after the "Da-gee"...
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Baby Magnet
We are aware of the dangers of having a pond (and of having a pool). What small child wouldn't be attracted to this:
This alone should convince someone to buy our property. Ooohh.. pretty water lily.... honey we HAVE to have this house!
Anyway, it's nice to see some healthy, happy life flourishing in the pond... and to be honest, Lucy loves looking at it (safely in our arms) too. We will watch her very closely at all times - we always do.
This alone should convince someone to buy our property. Ooohh.. pretty water lily.... honey we HAVE to have this house!
Anyway, it's nice to see some healthy, happy life flourishing in the pond... and to be honest, Lucy loves looking at it (safely in our arms) too. We will watch her very closely at all times - we always do.
Top Ten List
Top Ten Things I Learned About Owning a Home
10. You love the house when you buy it, and then proceed to change everything.
9. You must have a place to put coats, besides the guest bedroom.
8. If you live with a guy, he will attempt to convert an old house into a 21st century technological hub, running wires and cables through walls that clearly don’t want them, but the digital music and wireless Internet is worth it.
7. If your basement has a drop-panel ceiling, leave it alone. You don’t know what’s hiding up there.
6. Kelly was right about the pool boy thing. It’s the only way to go. Hot tubs from here on out.
5. Before selecting a house, make sure there is a good spot for the Christmas tree.
4. Old with Character is better than New and Boring, but you'll be doing a lot more work.
3. Hardwood floors are nice if you have a dog, awful if you have a baby.
2. No matter how long you live there, about the time you get everything just how you like it, you’ll be preparing to move.
1. The previous owners were giving away a big part of their lives to a couple of young, clueless kids. A million stories, momentous events, and priceless memories happened in this home, and with the initialing of a document, it was passed on to someone who would wipe the slate clean and start creating their own. Bittersweet… and now I understand.
Careful What You Sign
Today featured a story about a woman who is battling with her ex-husband over "custody" of a few frozen embryos they created when they were together, still planning on having a family (through in-vitro). Just before the procedure, he withdrew his consent and a year later they were divorced. Now she wants to have a baby, one she already created, with her ex-husband. He doesn't want to be an anonymous sperm donor, and he doesn't feel that it's right to bring a child into this particular relationship, since if he created a child, he would want to be a father to that child. The contract indicated that in the case of divorce, the embryos were to be destroyed (that was the option they selected).
Well, it's not really a custody battle, since if the man won "custody" I am not sure what he'd do with frozen embryos.
Woman's case: the procedure was to be done the day after the contract was signed, so there weren't going to BE any embryos to destroy (weak, since I think this is a case of her signing something she didn't think was going to ever happen. Big mistake). Even her lawyer says that by withdrawing consent from a "consent form" it makes the contract basically void. Then why is there an item on there for "in case of divorce..."? Woman just didn't expect Man to back out of the deal. Regardless of what they thought was going to take place, they signed a contract! Unfortunately now she feels these are her children and is going to lose them.
His case: Rock solid.
In other NEWS, have you ever put a note in a helium balloon and sent it up into the sky? No? Me neither. But this kid did and it found its way into the hands of someone quite special... and she wrote back. Pretty cool.
Well, it's not really a custody battle, since if the man won "custody" I am not sure what he'd do with frozen embryos.
Woman's case: the procedure was to be done the day after the contract was signed, so there weren't going to BE any embryos to destroy (weak, since I think this is a case of her signing something she didn't think was going to ever happen. Big mistake). Even her lawyer says that by withdrawing consent from a "consent form" it makes the contract basically void. Then why is there an item on there for "in case of divorce..."? Woman just didn't expect Man to back out of the deal. Regardless of what they thought was going to take place, they signed a contract! Unfortunately now she feels these are her children and is going to lose them.
His case: Rock solid.
In other NEWS, have you ever put a note in a helium balloon and sent it up into the sky? No? Me neither. But this kid did and it found its way into the hands of someone quite special... and she wrote back. Pretty cool.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Hammock-Grocery-Yogurt Day
Yesterday Lucy and I went to the mall with Grandma Carla to look for a dress for me to wear to my cousin's wedding. I found a few that I liked, but one in particular that I just felt the best about, and it was the cheaper of the options. Luckily it was a short search, because Lucy wasn't loving the mall that day.
Then we went home and she took a short nap... then went outside and we put her on the hammock for the first time (we were carefully holding her so it wouldn't be dangerous). I think she liked it. She also went to the grocery store (a first) and sat in (the appropriate spot for infants in) the cart! I know it's odd she hasn't been to the grocery store before, but she has been to Target (and the mall, and the greenhouse, and loads of other places). For a long time, Ron just picked up groceries on his way home from work on Fridays. She was in this stage for so long where she was too big for her carrier but not big enough to sit in the cart. Anyway, she was really entertained for a while, until we got to the checkout where she got scared from all the noise and commotion, and was holding her arms up for me to take her out of the cart and carry her.
After her dinner, she had yogurt (banana cream flavored) for the first time! She LOVED it.
I'm sure she had plenty to blog about last night....
Then we went home and she took a short nap... then went outside and we put her on the hammock for the first time (we were carefully holding her so it wouldn't be dangerous). I think she liked it. She also went to the grocery store (a first) and sat in (the appropriate spot for infants in) the cart! I know it's odd she hasn't been to the grocery store before, but she has been to Target (and the mall, and the greenhouse, and loads of other places). For a long time, Ron just picked up groceries on his way home from work on Fridays. She was in this stage for so long where she was too big for her carrier but not big enough to sit in the cart. Anyway, she was really entertained for a while, until we got to the checkout where she got scared from all the noise and commotion, and was holding her arms up for me to take her out of the cart and carry her.
After her dinner, she had yogurt (banana cream flavored) for the first time! She LOVED it.
I'm sure she had plenty to blog about last night....
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Agree or Disagree, I'm Putting This Out There
This morning there was a woman named Frieda Birnbaum on Today who, at age 60, just gave birth to twin boys. She has 3 other children (33, 29, and 6) and "wanted her younger son to have siblings closer to his age and wanted to remove some of the stigma attached to older women giving birth."
While I am happy that medical technology is allowing men and women to deal with a full range of fertility, obstetric, and pediatric health concerns, as Jeff Goldblum said in Jurassic Park: "just because you can do something, doesn't mean you should do it." When Meredith interviewed the new mom, Birnbaum said that it's a wonderful thing because it gives women the choice, and we don't have to do what society dictates, etc. Meredith asked her what she would say to people who think that she isn't thinking about the babies' future - Birnbaum said that they just don't agree with her choice because "maybe they're not a part of it, or they don't think that way..." and explained that this is the wave of the future, and they just have to move with the times. Okay. I can understand that this isn't the 1950's and women are more often postponing motherhood, to either pursue an education, career, financial stability, or other personal goals - and this is an important part of the feminist movement. You don't have to do what (the former?) society dictates... Good thing, because I think the world would suffer if it didn't have the gifts, talents, and ideas of professional women.
However, when a person decides to become a parent, he or she has to have the mentality, even before pregnancy, that the baby's (or babies') needs come first. This mother seems to be fulfilling her own needs (and perhaps those of her 6 year old son's ??) to blaze a trail for senior citizens who, if they have enough money, can take advantage of in-vitro fertilization and become parents again. Mission: accomplished! Never mind the fact that she will be an elderly woman trying to raise twin sons (!), a surely exhausting feat (in addition to her 6 year old) and since the average life expectancy for a woman in the United States is around 80 years old, these kids are in for a unique childhood. I am glad my own parents are still here to be involved, witness major life events, and can still take care of themselves while I am busy taking care of an infant. When the mother passes away in 15-20 years, who will be responsible for the teenage boys? Of course anyone's parents can die at any time, but even if she lives to be 80 years old, they will always have a special situation with their mother being as old as she is throughout their childhood. I don't know... I'm getting on a tangent here. Of course this is a subject that there is a lot to say about, and a lot of people's opinions will differ.
Some people require medical intervention to become parents, but usually these people are choosing that route because RIGHT NOW they are in their window of time when becoming parents makes sense. They deserve the chance at least try to have a baby of their own, and in many cases, families spend the life savings just to attain that miracle. Those who cannot afford it, simply cope with their disappointment and some of them choose to adopt (and almost always feel that their adopted baby was the one they were meant to raise, and believe it is a blessing in disguise).
I don't know how old is "too old" - I know women who have had babies in their late 30's... celebrities having them in their 40's... and they are handling it beautifully. But 60 is a whole new ballgame in my mind. Maybe I just need to "get with the times" ... I thought this was an interesting, controversial, social / moral issue. There cannot be laws regulating when someone is "too old" to have a baby. That's a slippery slope ... then does it apply to the father? What if the conception occurred "naturally", mandatory sterilization? That's all insane, and should never and will never happen. It is up to an individual to act selflessly, as mothers have no room for selfishness. While I support a woman's choice to do what is right for her and her family, well, in this case I think Jeff Goldblum was right.
I thought at least 2 pictures of Jeff Goldblum were necessary to make my point.
While I am happy that medical technology is allowing men and women to deal with a full range of fertility, obstetric, and pediatric health concerns, as Jeff Goldblum said in Jurassic Park: "just because you can do something, doesn't mean you should do it." When Meredith interviewed the new mom, Birnbaum said that it's a wonderful thing because it gives women the choice, and we don't have to do what society dictates, etc. Meredith asked her what she would say to people who think that she isn't thinking about the babies' future - Birnbaum said that they just don't agree with her choice because "maybe they're not a part of it, or they don't think that way..." and explained that this is the wave of the future, and they just have to move with the times. Okay. I can understand that this isn't the 1950's and women are more often postponing motherhood, to either pursue an education, career, financial stability, or other personal goals - and this is an important part of the feminist movement. You don't have to do what (the former?) society dictates... Good thing, because I think the world would suffer if it didn't have the gifts, talents, and ideas of professional women.However, when a person decides to become a parent, he or she has to have the mentality, even before pregnancy, that the baby's (or babies') needs come first. This mother seems to be fulfilling her own needs (and perhaps those of her 6 year old son's ??) to blaze a trail for senior citizens who, if they have enough money, can take advantage of in-vitro fertilization and become parents again. Mission: accomplished! Never mind the fact that she will be an elderly woman trying to raise twin sons (!), a surely exhausting feat (in addition to her 6 year old) and since the average life expectancy for a woman in the United States is around 80 years old, these kids are in for a unique childhood. I am glad my own parents are still here to be involved, witness major life events, and can still take care of themselves while I am busy taking care of an infant. When the mother passes away in 15-20 years, who will be responsible for the teenage boys? Of course anyone's parents can die at any time, but even if she lives to be 80 years old, they will always have a special situation with their mother being as old as she is throughout their childhood. I don't know... I'm getting on a tangent here. Of course this is a subject that there is a lot to say about, and a lot of people's opinions will differ.
Some people require medical intervention to become parents, but usually these people are choosing that route because RIGHT NOW they are in their window of time when becoming parents makes sense. They deserve the chance at least try to have a baby of their own, and in many cases, families spend the life savings just to attain that miracle. Those who cannot afford it, simply cope with their disappointment and some of them choose to adopt (and almost always feel that their adopted baby was the one they were meant to raise, and believe it is a blessing in disguise).
I don't know how old is "too old" - I know women who have had babies in their late 30's... celebrities having them in their 40's... and they are handling it beautifully. But 60 is a whole new ballgame in my mind. Maybe I just need to "get with the times" ... I thought this was an interesting, controversial, social / moral issue. There cannot be laws regulating when someone is "too old" to have a baby. That's a slippery slope ... then does it apply to the father? What if the conception occurred "naturally", mandatory sterilization? That's all insane, and should never and will never happen. It is up to an individual to act selflessly, as mothers have no room for selfishness. While I support a woman's choice to do what is right for her and her family, well, in this case I think Jeff Goldblum was right.I thought at least 2 pictures of Jeff Goldblum were necessary to make my point.
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Crawling Video
Okay now I have a video of her crawling - to the camera case (one of her favorite toys).
Monday, May 21, 2007
Marathon Update
I just wanted to post a link with some unfortunate news about the marathon situation: check out my other blog.
Part of me feels like a bit of a failure, even though I know that is ridiculous! There's nothing I can do - I got injured and I don't have enough time to train properly for such a long race, 4.5 months away. That doesn't mean that I can't still get back into running, for which I am still very excited. I got an amazing purple jogging stroller from Kelly - from a friend of hers at work - and I plan on putting some miles on it, even if some of those miles are relatively slow! I'm sure Lucy will enjoy the ride either way :)
My sister and my cousin are still in it, and I wish all the best for them! Also, Tiece, who is training for the Grand Rapids Marathon in late October, I hope your training continues to go well, and of course I'll be checking in to see how things are going.
Part of me feels like a bit of a failure, even though I know that is ridiculous! There's nothing I can do - I got injured and I don't have enough time to train properly for such a long race, 4.5 months away. That doesn't mean that I can't still get back into running, for which I am still very excited. I got an amazing purple jogging stroller from Kelly - from a friend of hers at work - and I plan on putting some miles on it, even if some of those miles are relatively slow! I'm sure Lucy will enjoy the ride either way :)
My sister and my cousin are still in it, and I wish all the best for them! Also, Tiece, who is training for the Grand Rapids Marathon in late October, I hope your training continues to go well, and of course I'll be checking in to see how things are going.
#1 Song the Day You Were Born
Bored? Looking for some Internet fluff? Check out this site and learn what was the #1 song the day you were born.
Mindy: Bette Davis Eyes - Kim Carnes (5-12-81)
Ron: With a Little Luck - Paul McCartney & Wings (5-26-78)
Lucy: SexyBack - Justin Timberlake (10-1-06)
I must admit, Lucy has the coolest one.
Mindy: Bette Davis Eyes - Kim Carnes (5-12-81)
Ron: With a Little Luck - Paul McCartney & Wings (5-26-78)
Lucy: SexyBack - Justin Timberlake (10-1-06)
I must admit, Lucy has the coolest one.
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Officially a Crawler, and Clapper!
Today Ron and I wanted to get a lot of work done, so my parents watched Lucy for most of the day. We were quite productive, and I've already started doing touch-up painting, which is crazy, since that's one of the last things on the list. While I have begun painting things, Ron is still doing some finish work here and there, but the light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter. I still can't believe we've been putting these things off this long. At least we're finally motivated.
When we went to get Lucy I started playing with her and "lured" her with a toy to see how her crawling was going - and to my amazement she actually crawled across the floor, like a real crawling baby! She used to get around through a process which involved the following moves: sit, fall forward onto hands, scoot legs under self, repeat. Now she knows how to stay on her hands and knees, and by moving those particular body parts she can go where she wants to go. As you can tell by the fact that I'm trying to explain to perfectly intelligent adults what crawling looks like, we are quite excited and proud! As long as she has a toy, a shoelace, or food to entice her, she is doing really well...
... and in the same day, she picked up another new skill: clapping! She is getting better and better by the minute. I've been trying to teach her this for forever, but she is too strong and resists anyone trying to hold her arms and 'clap' her hands for her. I will try to post a video of her crawling and/or clapping added to this post sometime tomorrow. I just wanted to share this with my handful of readers.
She also pulls herself up in her crib and soon we will have to lower the mattress again... any time she is on the floor, or crawling, she wants to pull up onto something. We're so happy, but also getting nervous about our hardwood floors. She is definitely going to keep me on my toes.
When we went to get Lucy I started playing with her and "lured" her with a toy to see how her crawling was going - and to my amazement she actually crawled across the floor, like a real crawling baby! She used to get around through a process which involved the following moves: sit, fall forward onto hands, scoot legs under self, repeat. Now she knows how to stay on her hands and knees, and by moving those particular body parts she can go where she wants to go. As you can tell by the fact that I'm trying to explain to perfectly intelligent adults what crawling looks like, we are quite excited and proud! As long as she has a toy, a shoelace, or food to entice her, she is doing really well...
... and in the same day, she picked up another new skill: clapping! She is getting better and better by the minute. I've been trying to teach her this for forever, but she is too strong and resists anyone trying to hold her arms and 'clap' her hands for her. I will try to post a video of her crawling and/or clapping added to this post sometime tomorrow. I just wanted to share this with my handful of readers.
She also pulls herself up in her crib and soon we will have to lower the mattress again... any time she is on the floor, or crawling, she wants to pull up onto something. We're so happy, but also getting nervous about our hardwood floors. She is definitely going to keep me on my toes.
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Crafty Idea
I have been going through all our "stuff" and found countless old cards - birthday, anniversary, congratulations on having a baby, thank-you notes, all kinds. Many of them have beautiful designs, and some of them were probably fairly expensive.
Sometimes there are nice poems, or handwritten notes inside, or just a funny phrase...
The problem is that whether they're attached to some sentimental event or not, it's hard for me to throw away a card that someone was thoughtful enough to give. I try not to be a packrat, and I despise clutter, but over the past year, cards have become an issue around here. I have been collecting many, especially the ones we received after Lucy was born... which is where I got my idea:
I eventually plan on making a scrapbook for her, and since she is almost 8 months old, I am obviously already really behind. I wanted to keep all her cards, but realized that they're pointless to save unless they are somehow being enjoyed. I got the idea to use the cards (even though they may be partially cut-up in the process) as embellishments in her scrapbook. This way the cute artwork, and even the little handwritten notes from friends and family can be added to the pages, so we will always remember who was nice enough to send us a card.... oops - just kidding - we will always be able to enjoy their kind words!
So if you ever plan on scrapbooking, or feel guilty throwing away a $4.00 card (which someone no doubt spent 20 minutes agonizing over at Hallmark), put them to use... and clean out that junk drawer!
Sometimes there are nice poems, or handwritten notes inside, or just a funny phrase...
The problem is that whether they're attached to some sentimental event or not, it's hard for me to throw away a card that someone was thoughtful enough to give. I try not to be a packrat, and I despise clutter, but over the past year, cards have become an issue around here. I have been collecting many, especially the ones we received after Lucy was born... which is where I got my idea:
I eventually plan on making a scrapbook for her, and since she is almost 8 months old, I am obviously already really behind. I wanted to keep all her cards, but realized that they're pointless to save unless they are somehow being enjoyed. I got the idea to use the cards (even though they may be partially cut-up in the process) as embellishments in her scrapbook. This way the cute artwork, and even the little handwritten notes from friends and family can be added to the pages, so we will always remember who was nice enough to send us a card.... oops - just kidding - we will always be able to enjoy their kind words!
So if you ever plan on scrapbooking, or feel guilty throwing away a $4.00 card (which someone no doubt spent 20 minutes agonizing over at Hallmark), put them to use... and clean out that junk drawer!
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Well-Viewed
In light of our attempt(s) to rearrange our living room, I am offering some quotes from familiar people about television.
We have struggled to find a way to situate our couch, chair, end table, bookshelf, and entertainment center - and the deal-breaker is always how various furniture is angled toward the television, or how we can hook the cable up to the television in a particular location...
... and it dawned on me, our lives are revolving around TV in more ways than one. While I love certain shows, I worry that we are addicted... like one could be to alcohol. Do you enjoy a glass of wine? Or do you need a glass of wine? Well, I need a glass of wine, I'm afraid. I like Matt Lauer to tell me what's going on in the world every morning. But I also need feng shui. Therefore, we're considering banishing the TV, at least until we have a different living room that allows for harmony among furniture, decor, and media. I think TV has a lot of positive things to offer, if you want to sift it out, but once you start picking and choosing, the line between "fun" and "junk" is blurred. I love the news, I love the dramas, comedies, Jeopardy!, American Idol, This Old House, Bert and Ernie...
No final decisions have been made. We might not be able to take such a drastic measure, but if we do, it'll be okay - summer TV is mostly reruns.
We have struggled to find a way to situate our couch, chair, end table, bookshelf, and entertainment center - and the deal-breaker is always how various furniture is angled toward the television, or how we can hook the cable up to the television in a particular location...
... and it dawned on me, our lives are revolving around TV in more ways than one. While I love certain shows, I worry that we are addicted... like one could be to alcohol. Do you enjoy a glass of wine? Or do you need a glass of wine? Well, I need a glass of wine, I'm afraid. I like Matt Lauer to tell me what's going on in the world every morning. But I also need feng shui. Therefore, we're considering banishing the TV, at least until we have a different living room that allows for harmony among furniture, decor, and media. I think TV has a lot of positive things to offer, if you want to sift it out, but once you start picking and choosing, the line between "fun" and "junk" is blurred. I love the news, I love the dramas, comedies, Jeopardy!, American Idol, This Old House, Bert and Ernie...
Television! Teacher, mother, secret lover. ~Homer Simpson, The Simpsons
The television, that insidious beast, that Medusa which freezes a billion people to stone every night, staring fixedly, that Siren which called and sang and promised so much and gave, after all, so little. ~Ray Bradbury, The Golden Apples of the Sun
Television: chewing gum for the eyes. ~Frank Lloyd Wright
Your cable television is experiencing difficulties. Please do not panic. Resist the temptation to read or talk to loved ones. Do not attempt sexual relations, as years of TV radiation have left your genitals withered and useless. ~Matt Groening, The Simpsons
If you read a lot of books, you're considered well-read. But if you watch a lot of TV, you're not considered well-viewed. ~Lily Tomlin
When we say "War is over if you want it," we mean that if everyone demanded peace instead of another TV set, we'd have peace. ~John Lennon
I believe in love. Yes, I believe in love! Love! Money! Love! I believe in poetry! Electricity! Cheap cosmetics! I believe in the sky over my head and my silver shoes beneath me! I believe in Las Vegas! I've been there! I know that it exists. I believe in you! I believe for you! I have a vision! I have a vision! I have a vision! I have a vision! Television! Television! Television! Television! ~Mirror Ball Man (Bono), ZooTV
No final decisions have been made. We might not be able to take such a drastic measure, but if we do, it'll be okay - summer TV is mostly reruns.
Dooce
For the past couple of months, I have been checking out Dooce, a blog written by a woman named Heather Armstrong, who lives with her husband and daughter, and their dog, in Salt Lake City.
I found the word "Dooce" in the list of blogs linked on other friends' blogs... Who is this Dooce person, and why are all these random people somehow connected with her? I had to find out for myself, so I started reading and got hooked. I don't know if anyone of my blogging friends actually knows her personally, but it's hard not to feel like you do in a way, when you follow along with her experiences day to day. She is such a talented, funny, and candid writer that you want to see what happens next... the story is her life and it's actually a good read. She illustrates with truly beautiful photography.
A couple weeks ago I added Dooce to my links, so I guess you could consider me a fan. Even though she's a total stranger...
But be warned: if you start going back to her earlier posts you may end up reading her entire blog (which doubles as her career thanks to the ads), and she has had it since 2001. With multiple posts each day... you do the math.
I found the word "Dooce" in the list of blogs linked on other friends' blogs... Who is this Dooce person, and why are all these random people somehow connected with her? I had to find out for myself, so I started reading and got hooked. I don't know if anyone of my blogging friends actually knows her personally, but it's hard not to feel like you do in a way, when you follow along with her experiences day to day. She is such a talented, funny, and candid writer that you want to see what happens next... the story is her life and it's actually a good read. She illustrates with truly beautiful photography.
A couple weeks ago I added Dooce to my links, so I guess you could consider me a fan. Even though she's a total stranger...
But be warned: if you start going back to her earlier posts you may end up reading her entire blog (which doubles as her career thanks to the ads), and she has had it since 2001. With multiple posts each day... you do the math.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Entrusting
This morning I was informed by Brett Thomas that an 8-month old girl went missing from the 2800 block of Taft Ave. That is the same street we live on - but it doesn't connect. There is a sort of "break" in the road at a point between here and there. That section is off of 28th street... but it still made me perk up and listen carefully, since it's not that far, and grab my phone in case I saw anything suspicious. A mother apparently had a bad migraine last night, and last saw her daughter playing in front of their apartment complex around 10:30 PM, with a mentally-disabled cousin. This morning, both were missing.
She said the cousin was barely capable of caring for himself... good thing HE was left in charge of her precious infant daughter.
I watched footage of a distraught mother being consoled by neighbors and family, and thought, what a nightmare! Since her daughter was missing, I was sympathetic and worried, hoping and praying that someone would find the baby, and even the cousin too.
Now I just learned the Amber Alert has been cancelled (everyone is safe and sound)... and my sympathy has all but vanished. How could she entrust her little baby girl with an individual who can't possibly know how to take care of her, outside of an apartment complex, at 10:30 PM, in a relatively unsafe part of town, etc. etc.? Migraine or no migraine, common sense should prevail.
She said the cousin was barely capable of caring for himself... good thing HE was left in charge of her precious infant daughter.
I watched footage of a distraught mother being consoled by neighbors and family, and thought, what a nightmare! Since her daughter was missing, I was sympathetic and worried, hoping and praying that someone would find the baby, and even the cousin too.
Now I just learned the Amber Alert has been cancelled (everyone is safe and sound)... and my sympathy has all but vanished. How could she entrust her little baby girl with an individual who can't possibly know how to take care of her, outside of an apartment complex, at 10:30 PM, in a relatively unsafe part of town, etc. etc.? Migraine or no migraine, common sense should prevail.
Monday, May 14, 2007
Mothers
Yesterday was Mothers Day. Since it was my first Mothers Day, it was hard not to reflect on the mother-child (especially mother-daughter) relationships I have witnessed, or been a part of...
My own parenting style is influenced by how my mother raised my sister and me. I think that it's impossible to avoid, because that is the "way" we have always known. It almost always makes women more like their own mothers. I know this isn't something we strive for, but it just sort of happens. I never realized the amount of love, fear, and pride she has had in her heart, watching us grow up. All those emotions are on full-throttle from day one, and after experiencing those emotions on a daily basis myself for the last several months... I'm humbled.
On the other side of the family, Ron's mother (Sarah) is the matriarch of a growing extended family, four children, eight grandchildren... she is as happy as any grandmother could be. She has so many reasons to celebrate Mothers Day, and deserves a little special attention and thanks for all she gives to us. This year, however, she spent Mothers Day on an airplane, on her way to England... after hearing that her own mother, almost 97 years old, has taken a turn for the worse. A family member sacrificed financially to get her a plane ticket to see her mom. Sarah needs to see her mom before she passes away, which could be very soon. I can't imagine what the mind of an older woman is like, having to think about your own mother passing on. Sarah will struggle with this, but her mother has lived a long and fulfilling life. I hope that she finds peace in being with her over the next couple of weeks, if they are her last. I never met Ron's grandmother Julia ("Grandma England") but I feel connected to her in a small way. She is Lucy's great-grandmother. Seeing children at the beginning of life, and thinking about an old woman nearing the end... I suddenly feel like I'm standing in the eye of a storm, beautiful, calm, and frightening.
I remember wanting to have a baby and wondering when or if that was going to happen. I promised that if I could have a baby I would never take her or him for granted, trying to bargain for pregnancy. All too easily I broke that promise, since the days go by so quickly, and we have this amazing child that keeps us busy, laughing, and exhausted. Last night I snuck into her room quietly while she was asleep, and it was like I was seeing our daughter for the first time again. (As cliche as it sounds) I kissed my fingertips, reached into the crib, and gently touched her.
My own parenting style is influenced by how my mother raised my sister and me. I think that it's impossible to avoid, because that is the "way" we have always known. It almost always makes women more like their own mothers. I know this isn't something we strive for, but it just sort of happens. I never realized the amount of love, fear, and pride she has had in her heart, watching us grow up. All those emotions are on full-throttle from day one, and after experiencing those emotions on a daily basis myself for the last several months... I'm humbled.
On the other side of the family, Ron's mother (Sarah) is the matriarch of a growing extended family, four children, eight grandchildren... she is as happy as any grandmother could be. She has so many reasons to celebrate Mothers Day, and deserves a little special attention and thanks for all she gives to us. This year, however, she spent Mothers Day on an airplane, on her way to England... after hearing that her own mother, almost 97 years old, has taken a turn for the worse. A family member sacrificed financially to get her a plane ticket to see her mom. Sarah needs to see her mom before she passes away, which could be very soon. I can't imagine what the mind of an older woman is like, having to think about your own mother passing on. Sarah will struggle with this, but her mother has lived a long and fulfilling life. I hope that she finds peace in being with her over the next couple of weeks, if they are her last. I never met Ron's grandmother Julia ("Grandma England") but I feel connected to her in a small way. She is Lucy's great-grandmother. Seeing children at the beginning of life, and thinking about an old woman nearing the end... I suddenly feel like I'm standing in the eye of a storm, beautiful, calm, and frightening. I remember wanting to have a baby and wondering when or if that was going to happen. I promised that if I could have a baby I would never take her or him for granted, trying to bargain for pregnancy. All too easily I broke that promise, since the days go by so quickly, and we have this amazing child that keeps us busy, laughing, and exhausted. Last night I snuck into her room quietly while she was asleep, and it was like I was seeing our daughter for the first time again. (As cliche as it sounds) I kissed my fingertips, reached into the crib, and gently touched her.
Weekend Recap
This past weekend was quite eventful... Friday Ron's parents and their friends Kurt and Susi from Germany came over for dinner (outside) and we had a lovely time. Susi last saw us when I was pregnant but just starting to show. She really loved holding Lucy and Lucy loved pulling Susi's necklace off (magnetic clasp). She was so good the whole time! Way to be a happy baby, Lucy! I think they were impressed with our home and our yard, which looked good since we spent a lot of time on it over the past week. They left and about 15 minutes later, my sister and her boyfriend arrived for a weekend visit from Chicagoland. We hung out talking for a while, and then finally went to bed. Saturday was my 26th birthday, so we celebrated by going to a Whitecaps game at Fifth Third Ballpark...
Kelly got box seats down behind the backstop, just onto the 3rd base line. Since we were right up against the front, we had a place to set our beers! The game was pretty good, but the Whitecaps ended up losing in the last inning. Then there were fireworks! Between each inning there were lots of SHENANIGANS (Amber, I had to use that word because that is the only word to describe it). It's nice for the kids. Lots of silly games and things to keep people entertained. Ron and I plan on coming back for more games when Lucy (and other future children) is old enough to enjoy them. After the game we went to my parents' house to make s'mores outside. We all went back to our house afterward smelling like a campfire. Mmmmmm....
Sunday we skipped church and went to Legends for breakfast (Lucy was pretty well-behaved but kept reaching for my omelette, silverware, placemat....). Then back to mom and dad's to give out Mothers Day cards / gifts, and just to hang out some more. Kelly and Heath took off early afternoon to head back, and the rest of us went to Grandma and Grandpa Hiddema's for May birthdays and Mothers Day, barbeque etc. A LONG day for all. A Long weekend...
Kelly got box seats down behind the backstop, just onto the 3rd base line. Since we were right up against the front, we had a place to set our beers! The game was pretty good, but the Whitecaps ended up losing in the last inning. Then there were fireworks! Between each inning there were lots of SHENANIGANS (Amber, I had to use that word because that is the only word to describe it). It's nice for the kids. Lots of silly games and things to keep people entertained. Ron and I plan on coming back for more games when Lucy (and other future children) is old enough to enjoy them. After the game we went to my parents' house to make s'mores outside. We all went back to our house afterward smelling like a campfire. Mmmmmm....
Sunday we skipped church and went to Legends for breakfast (Lucy was pretty well-behaved but kept reaching for my omelette, silverware, placemat....). Then back to mom and dad's to give out Mothers Day cards / gifts, and just to hang out some more. Kelly and Heath took off early afternoon to head back, and the rest of us went to Grandma and Grandpa Hiddema's for May birthdays and Mothers Day, barbeque etc. A LONG day for all. A Long weekend...
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Rise and Shine!
Lucy must be waking up earlier because it's light out earlier. There's no other explanation - she went to sleep quite late last night (9:30) and was up at 5:15! UGH! I let her play in her crib and make noises until I finally got up at 6:15 and fed her an earlier breakfast. The thing is, when I went down to her room, I walked in and discovered her sitting in her crib, pacifier in mouth, smiling. She wasn't even propped up against the side (note: her getting up into a sitting position and staying that way hasn't happened before, since whenever I try to "make" her sit on the floor she fights me by stiffening her body and refusing to bend at the waist).
Seems like suddenly she's coming up with some new tricks. I tried to work with her on her crawling this morning and sometimes she decides to go on her hands and feet (as in the downward-facing dog), instead of hands and knees:
which results in either her dropping back down onto her knees, or if her arms give out, dropping onto her face. She's been practicing yoga like this for a couple of weeks, so this is nothing new. This morning, her arms unfortunately gave out in a rather dramatic fashion, which Ron was still home to witness. The poor girl started crying and had tears streaming and everything. No more crawling practice until later today! I carried her over to where she could see our dog Killian and she stopped immediately.
Also, Happy Birthday, Bono!
PS: That's not a photo of Lucy...
Seems like suddenly she's coming up with some new tricks. I tried to work with her on her crawling this morning and sometimes she decides to go on her hands and feet (as in the downward-facing dog), instead of hands and knees:
which results in either her dropping back down onto her knees, or if her arms give out, dropping onto her face. She's been practicing yoga like this for a couple of weeks, so this is nothing new. This morning, her arms unfortunately gave out in a rather dramatic fashion, which Ron was still home to witness. The poor girl started crying and had tears streaming and everything. No more crawling practice until later today! I carried her over to where she could see our dog Killian and she stopped immediately.Also, Happy Birthday, Bono!
PS: That's not a photo of Lucy...
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Stolen Blog Post
i so don't need a blog: random
It takes a special person to see deeper meaning in the city's symbol of the Calder sculpture and a wavy blue line representing the Grand River. But she's right...
It takes a special person to see deeper meaning in the city's symbol of the Calder sculpture and a wavy blue line representing the Grand River. But she's right...
Packing Bins
Ron picked up some gray Rubbermaid storage bins, so we can start get organized (I'm sick of our storage room being a pile) and put things in them that we know we want to save. I gave Lucy a little blanket she can curl up with. She's all set to go! Don't worry, I won't put the lid on until it's time to put this bin in the back of a pickup truck.
(I hope no one is taking this seriously)
A Whole New World...
This morning Lucy actually crawled, technically. She lunged forward and collapsed after just a couple of moves, but she did it... a little! She will probably get better at it over the next couple of days, and will soon be all over the place. From what I hear, it's just "all of a sudden" they figure it out and become instant pro's. I can do some baby-proofing, but something tells me she will discover hidden dangers that I can't even predict!
The timing isn't too terrible though, since we're beginning to de-clutter and super-clean our home in preparation for putting it on the market. There will be less breakables and personal mementos around for her to scatter, and although I want her to explore freely, I want it to be a safe envirement for her... and not go around behind her "undoing" what she does. Exciting! Scary! I'll keep practicing with her and she'll soon be crawling - and then I'll think, "Why was I in such a hurry to help her gain this skill!?"
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
Kelly's Back
Tulip Time
Yesterday I spent the morning and early part of the afternoon in Holland with my mom and Lucy, checking out the tulips. We went to JP's for a drink since it was still a little chilly at 9:30 AM, and then went to Centennial Park. There were lots of cute children dressed in Dutch costumes, and many beautiful tulips.
Of course, Lucy wasn't all that excited about a bunch of flowers. I was trying to get some nice photos but she seemed more interested in flirting with the cute Dutch boys she met at the park. She did all she could to stay awake almost the whole time we were there, but she fell asleep in the stroller eventually, if only for a short time. I am not complaining though, because she didn't cry once. The rest of the week looks kind of touch-and-go with rain, so I'm glad we went yesterday. The weather was perfect and the tulips still looked good. It was nice to walk through Holland, Hope's campus, and the park.
Friday, May 04, 2007
Cutest Thing That I Ever Did See....
Last night at Mark & Susan's we were watching one of their digital channels with oddball videos and such, and this came up. If you like kittens, or Fatboy Slim, or anything cute... or good music... please check it out right now!!!
While you're at it, check out some of his other videos, like That Old Pair of Jeans, all pretty entertaining. I miss MTV. We don't get MTV, but if we did, we still wouldn't see any music videos. I should say, I miss MTV of the late 80's and early 90's before reality shows took over...
While you're at it, check out some of his other videos, like That Old Pair of Jeans, all pretty entertaining. I miss MTV. We don't get MTV, but if we did, we still wouldn't see any music videos. I should say, I miss MTV of the late 80's and early 90's before reality shows took over...
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
Annika Celeste
Tuesday, May 1, 2007, at 12:47 a.m. Mark and Susan had their second child. She was 7 lb. 15 oz., 20.5 inches. Everyone is healthy and doing well. We're very happy for them and excited to meet our new niece Thursday night when we go to visit them at home. The photo was taken by Steve at the hospital.
Big sister Sloane is probably really busy helping her mommy with the new baby...
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
Luck of the Irish
This morning, on my favorite morning news show - Today - I tuned in to see Matt Lauer at the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare, Ireland! The views were indescribable, and I'm suddenly extremely envious of Kelly, because that's probably very similar to what she will be seeing on her bike trip! Matt flew into Shannon (same as Kelly) and is traveling all over the western side of the country.
This is all part of a yearly expedition called Where In the World Is Matt Lauer? where Matt travels to amazing destinations that are kept a surprise from the viewers until he is there. Yesterday he went to the Boeing Assembly Facility in Everett, WA. It was really interesting to see all about how the planes come together, and the new 777 being built. The facility is so big, workers ride bikes from one place to another, it has its own weather system (clouds, rain even), coffee shops, dry cleaners, sleeping facilities, med centers, restaurants, just about anything you'd need to live. Not to mention the giant commercial airplanes being built! It was cool to see that, since a good friend of mine from high school - Kevin Price - is a mechanical engineer for the company.
This is all part of a yearly expedition called Where In the World Is Matt Lauer? where Matt travels to amazing destinations that are kept a surprise from the viewers until he is there. Yesterday he went to the Boeing Assembly Facility in Everett, WA. It was really interesting to see all about how the planes come together, and the new 777 being built. The facility is so big, workers ride bikes from one place to another, it has its own weather system (clouds, rain even), coffee shops, dry cleaners, sleeping facilities, med centers, restaurants, just about anything you'd need to live. Not to mention the giant commercial airplanes being built! It was cool to see that, since a good friend of mine from high school - Kevin Price - is a mechanical engineer for the company.
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