Once upon a time I spent almost a year in a port town on the coast of the Baltic Sea, in a beautiful little city called "Liepaja, pilseta kur piedzim vejsh." In English that is "Liepaja, city where the wind is born."
I think I have discovered where it spends its adolescence, or at least its toddler years...
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You're laughing, Aimee, I know you are. Either that or rolling your eyes from the "great state of Chicago".
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Sundried Tomato Pasta
My friend Johanna gave this recipe to me and we make it all the time. So good, so good!
INGREDIENTS
6 cups cooked farfalle (bow tie or mini-bow tie) pasta
2 Tbs - 1/2 cup butter (I've tried both and everything in between. They are all good).
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
1 cup milk
1 tablespoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
3 cooked skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut or shredded into bite-size pieces
Approx 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
4 tablespoons grated Romano cheese
DIRECTIONS
In a large pot with boiling salted water cook farfalle pasta until al dente. Drain. Meanwhile, melt butter in a large saucepan. Add garlic cloves and cook until garlic browns. Add the cream of chicken soup, stir in the dried parsley, salt, and ground fresh pepper. Blend milk and tomatoes gently in food processor or blender and add to pot. Let simmer for 5-10 minutes. Mix in grated Romano cheese. Toss cooked and drained pasta with chicken and sauce. Serve warm.
**Cheapest (and largest) jars of sundried tomatoes can be found at Costco. Otherwise, smaller jars (enough to make this recipe 3 times) can be found in the canned and jarred tomato section in your regular grocery store, $3.99 at Wal-mart.
*Picture does not show tomatoes blended with milk. That is a recent change.
For more of our family's favorite recipes, visit Vittles Divine.
INGREDIENTS
6 cups cooked farfalle (bow tie or mini-bow tie) pasta
2 Tbs - 1/2 cup butter (I've tried both and everything in between. They are all good).
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
1 cup milk
1 tablespoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
3 cooked skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut or shredded into bite-size pieces
Approx 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
4 tablespoons grated Romano cheese
DIRECTIONS
In a large pot with boiling salted water cook farfalle pasta until al dente. Drain. Meanwhile, melt butter in a large saucepan. Add garlic cloves and cook until garlic browns. Add the cream of chicken soup, stir in the dried parsley, salt, and ground fresh pepper. Blend milk and tomatoes gently in food processor or blender and add to pot. Let simmer for 5-10 minutes. Mix in grated Romano cheese. Toss cooked and drained pasta with chicken and sauce. Serve warm.
**Cheapest (and largest) jars of sundried tomatoes can be found at Costco. Otherwise, smaller jars (enough to make this recipe 3 times) can be found in the canned and jarred tomato section in your regular grocery store, $3.99 at Wal-mart.
*Picture does not show tomatoes blended with milk. That is a recent change.
For more of our family's favorite recipes, visit Vittles Divine.
"Light" Therapy
How do you get a lazy little preemie to grab and inspect? Turn down the lights and give him a glow-in-the-dark bracelet.
The Eval
Because we were embroiled on Monday in the other "intervention" (of the Kinley variety), we had to reschedule Crew's Early Intervention Evaluation for this morning.
It didn't go quite as well as I had hoped. Unfortunately, Crew "easily qualifies" for the program. We have been watching him steadily drop behind the charts, the cousins, and the neighbors over the last few months, but we hoped he wasn't that far behind. He is. His development places him somewhere between 4 and 5 and 1/2 months, though his adjusted age is 8 months.
His teeny little body makes it difficult to see the delays sometimes because he behaves so appropriately and even advanced for a baby of his size.
Sigh...
So, back into the ring with OT/PT.
Blech.
It didn't go quite as well as I had hoped. Unfortunately, Crew "easily qualifies" for the program. We have been watching him steadily drop behind the charts, the cousins, and the neighbors over the last few months, but we hoped he wasn't that far behind. He is. His development places him somewhere between 4 and 5 and 1/2 months, though his adjusted age is 8 months.
His teeny little body makes it difficult to see the delays sometimes because he behaves so appropriately and even advanced for a baby of his size.
Sigh...
So, back into the ring with OT/PT.
Blech.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Soup Season!
It's that time of year again, so I thought I'd post one of my favorite soup recipes. It's very flavorful.
Potato Soup
INGREDIENTS
6 cups peeled and cubed potatoes
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup chopped onion
2 cups diced carrots
5 cube chicken bouillon
4 cups water
1 tbs dried parsley
1 teaspoon salt
2 pinch ground black pepper
2-4 Tbs all-purpose flour
3 cups milk
1 1/2 cups shredded cheese
2 cups chopped ham (or hamburger)
DIRECTIONS
In a large pot, add potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, chicken bouillon, water, parsley flakes, salt, and pepper and simmer until vegetables become tender (approx 45-60 minutes. Carrots take the longest.)
When veggies are tender, in a separate bowl mix flour and milk. Once it is well blended, add to soup mixture and cook until soup becomes thick (approx 5-7 minutes).
Take a potato masher and gently smash around the pot, just enough to squash some of the potato chunks, but not all. It makes the soup creamier!
Stir in cheese, cooked ham or hamburger and simmer until cheese is melted (approx 1-3 minutes).
*Add more salt if needed, but remember that with leftovers, the salt will have had a chance to leak out of the ham, so be careful you don't overdo it!
Monday, September 28, 2009
School Schmool
Most of my emotions have been tied very tightly to the goings on at Kinley's school. I won't bore you with details, but I think I'll sleep soundly tonight for the first time in a week. We did end up having an unavoidable intervention last Friday involving the principal, the school counselor, Kinley, and the teacher.
I can honestly say that the administration at Kinley's school has been nothing but concerned, involved, supportive, understanding, and accommodating through it all. It helps, I'm sure, that Kinley is a good student and crazy charming when she wants to be. She makes me not look like such a nutcase.
I had a tete-a-tete with the teacher this morning and I think we have made a lot of progress. I feel really good about where we are headed. This teacher does have a "different" personality, to be sure, and doesn't communicate very effectively with parents or with 6-year olds.
I have learned again, as I learned too well in the NICU, that if you have concerns, you can be assertive without being aggressive and you can make a difference. Normal people are willing to resolve important issues. And thanks, Great Grandma Julia, for your wardrobe and demeanor suggestions! I took them to heart, and to the school, ha ha!
Now... time to focus on far less stressful items!
I can honestly say that the administration at Kinley's school has been nothing but concerned, involved, supportive, understanding, and accommodating through it all. It helps, I'm sure, that Kinley is a good student and crazy charming when she wants to be. She makes me not look like such a nutcase.
I had a tete-a-tete with the teacher this morning and I think we have made a lot of progress. I feel really good about where we are headed. This teacher does have a "different" personality, to be sure, and doesn't communicate very effectively with parents or with 6-year olds.
I have learned again, as I learned too well in the NICU, that if you have concerns, you can be assertive without being aggressive and you can make a difference. Normal people are willing to resolve important issues. And thanks, Great Grandma Julia, for your wardrobe and demeanor suggestions! I took them to heart, and to the school, ha ha!
Now... time to focus on far less stressful items!
PTA Walk-a-Thon
We attended the PTA Walk-a-Thon fundraiser last week. It was a hot-hot sunny day and I burned many calories tromping endlessly around the field all afternoon to support my favorite gal.
Tanner and Crew were troopers. I honestly couldn't believe how far Tanner walked. He stopped for a few snacks along the way.
My kids are super. Wouldn't trade 'em for anything.
On a side note, I sometimes think we have moved to Mayberry, complete with Andy Griffith (the school custodian). While at the walk-a-thon, three different women approached me separately because they recognized me from church or from the neighborhood. My crazy hair hasn't scared anyone off yet and has had the benefit of making me very recognizable :)
Tanner and Crew were troopers. I honestly couldn't believe how far Tanner walked. He stopped for a few snacks along the way.
My kids are super. Wouldn't trade 'em for anything.
On a side note, I sometimes think we have moved to Mayberry, complete with Andy Griffith (the school custodian). While at the walk-a-thon, three different women approached me separately because they recognized me from church or from the neighborhood. My crazy hair hasn't scared anyone off yet and has had the benefit of making me very recognizable :)
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Poomiss
Justin: Megan, your feet are so dry and gross. You need to use one of those poomiss bars.
Megan: It's called a "pumice" bar, pronounced "puh-miss", not "poo-miss."
Justin (totally incredulous): Whatever! You're totally making that up. How do you know that's the pronunciation? No way, you're wrong. Yeah, right, "puh-miss". I don't think so. Sheesh....
Megan: Oh, honey...
Justin: And you should also wear socks more often so your feet are silky smooth like mine.
Megan: It's called a "pumice" bar, pronounced "puh-miss", not "poo-miss."
Justin (totally incredulous): Whatever! You're totally making that up. How do you know that's the pronunciation? No way, you're wrong. Yeah, right, "puh-miss". I don't think so. Sheesh....
Megan: Oh, honey...
Justin: And you should also wear socks more often so your feet are silky smooth like mine.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
7's
Many years ago, Justin/Daddy The Accountant began playing a dice game with Kinley that helped her learn to count. Now it helps her do addition in her head and is helping Tanner learn to count.
You need two dice (dice? di?) Anyway, you need two of the square things with dots on them. You take turns rolling them and every time someone gets a total of "seven", they get a point. Or, if you don't keep score, as we never keep score with this game, the family erupts into a raucous celebration when someone gets a "seven".
Anyway, it's a very simple game and educational to boot. We call it "7's". It's fast moving and you can stop anytime.
You need two dice (dice? di?) Anyway, you need two of the square things with dots on them. You take turns rolling them and every time someone gets a total of "seven", they get a point. Or, if you don't keep score, as we never keep score with this game, the family erupts into a raucous celebration when someone gets a "seven".
Anyway, it's a very simple game and educational to boot. We call it "7's". It's fast moving and you can stop anytime.
Motating
He is thinking about making a move.
The local Early Intervention Team will be here on Monday to evaluate our tiny prince. Justin calls him "lazy", I prefer to call him "content". He's cute, he's sweet, but he is definitely not a self-starter.
He makes progress when I'm very aggressive with his therapy (and has regressed during the last 3 weeks of chaos). Our pediatrician is not convinced yet that he has any Cerebral Palsy, but his continuing delays combined with his history are making him very suspicious of a mild, very manageable form. We aren't panicked about the possibility, just determined to work more intensely with him. I'm relieved that the most time-consuming part of the move is now behind us so that we can focus more on this.
The local Early Intervention Team will be here on Monday to evaluate our tiny prince. Justin calls him "lazy", I prefer to call him "content". He's cute, he's sweet, but he is definitely not a self-starter.
He makes progress when I'm very aggressive with his therapy (and has regressed during the last 3 weeks of chaos). Our pediatrician is not convinced yet that he has any Cerebral Palsy, but his continuing delays combined with his history are making him very suspicious of a mild, very manageable form. We aren't panicked about the possibility, just determined to work more intensely with him. I'm relieved that the most time-consuming part of the move is now behind us so that we can focus more on this.
Carnage and Destruction
These photos depict just some of the carnage wreaked during last night's Great Wasp Massacre. Justin left the bodies on display overnight to intimidate any additional enemy soldiers.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
The Kitchen
This is my favorite room in the new house. I do so love cooking in it. I even (almost) enjoy cleaning it... No permanent fridge yet, but having the fridge in the garage is good for my waistline. 
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
The Playroom is Finished!
I spent yesterday unpacking and organizing the playroom of my children's dreams. They are thrilled to pieces!
We replaced our Tiny Trusty Kitchen Table this morning with a new dining set that fits all four of us solid-food eaters plus our food, with ample room for Crew later, so we donated TTKT to the playroom for boardgames and crafts.
The game shelves
The Bear Bench.
Kinley posing in the "Reading Corner"
I was able to fit the art supplies in the closet. Now we can actually find everything we need for an afternoon of crafty, gamey fun!
Eventually I plan to get some large multi-colored "dot" wall stickers to decorate the back wall behind the table. We are excited to make great use of this space.
Come visit any time!
We replaced our Tiny Trusty Kitchen Table this morning with a new dining set that fits all four of us solid-food eaters plus our food, with ample room for Crew later, so we donated TTKT to the playroom for boardgames and crafts.
The game shelves
The Bear Bench.
Kinley posing in the "Reading Corner"
I was able to fit the art supplies in the closet. Now we can actually find everything we need for an afternoon of crafty, gamey fun!
Eventually I plan to get some large multi-colored "dot" wall stickers to decorate the back wall behind the table. We are excited to make great use of this space.
Come visit any time!
What Keeps Crew Up All Night?
Growth spurt starvation?
Teething?
Overactive bowels?
Loneliness?
Mandee asked me on Monday how I felt about having Crew sleeping on a different level with a flight of stairs separating us. I replied, "He sleeps through the night without a peep, so it hasn't been a problem at all so far."
I'd like to amend that response...
Teething?
Overactive bowels?
Loneliness?
Mandee asked me on Monday how I felt about having Crew sleeping on a different level with a flight of stairs separating us. I replied, "He sleeps through the night without a peep, so it hasn't been a problem at all so far."
I'd like to amend that response...
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Officially THE Weirdest Response
People have said some odd things about Dex, but this takes first place.
Lady, trying to count heads: How may children do you have?
Megan: These three, plus one more in heaven. Our baby is a twin.
Lady (while patting our baby on the head and talking to him): Awww.... it's a good thing! Otherwise you little guys might have fought all the time, and then it would be harder to get into heaven!
?????
And before you ask, I was too startled to respond coherently. I'm really not that quick on my feet. I understand not knowing what to say, but really.
It was actually too weird and clueless to be completely offensive. Justin and I shared a morbid chuckle later.
Lady, trying to count heads: How may children do you have?
Megan: These three, plus one more in heaven. Our baby is a twin.
Lady (while patting our baby on the head and talking to him): Awww.... it's a good thing! Otherwise you little guys might have fought all the time, and then it would be harder to get into heaven!
?????
And before you ask, I was too startled to respond coherently. I'm really not that quick on my feet. I understand not knowing what to say, but really.
It was actually too weird and clueless to be completely offensive. Justin and I shared a morbid chuckle later.
New Pianist In Town
Kiks has been pestering me for months to start teaching her to play the piano. I promised her that we would start when we got to the new house. Lessons are under way at last.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Better School Day
My princess arrived home this afternoon with a tentative smile on her face. She didn't ask to be homeschooled today at least. That's an improvement over last week anyway...
The bully didn't torment her and the teacher was only snippy once. I have come to realize that I can't press for too many details because the more I press for the nitty gritty, the more she is able to focus on the negative. But I want to know the details! What a delicate balance...
Justin and I came to a big decision last night. We originally planned to split Kinley and Tanner into their own rooms as soon as we moved here, but we are now going to wait until after this next tax season. She may not realize it, but she needs Tanner now more than ever. They love each other so much and I think she'd be crazy lonely by herself right now. In April we'll move Crew in with Tanner and give Kinley her own space. But for now, I think we're dealing with enough adjustment.
The bully didn't torment her and the teacher was only snippy once. I have come to realize that I can't press for too many details because the more I press for the nitty gritty, the more she is able to focus on the negative. But I want to know the details! What a delicate balance...
Justin and I came to a big decision last night. We originally planned to split Kinley and Tanner into their own rooms as soon as we moved here, but we are now going to wait until after this next tax season. She may not realize it, but she needs Tanner now more than ever. They love each other so much and I think she'd be crazy lonely by herself right now. In April we'll move Crew in with Tanner and give Kinley her own space. But for now, I think we're dealing with enough adjustment.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
LOL!!
Justin thought my kind comments about the new ward would hurt the feelings of my friends in our old ward. Ha ha! I assured him my friends in the old ward know they hold first place in my heart and that they love us enough to want us to be welcomed wherever we go :)
I'm just glad that Kinley and Tanner mastered their nerves and conquered their fears of attending a new ward and that they were helped along so well in their transition. After her school experience, Kinley was terrified to go to church today. But Tanner... he's a different little boy now after 9 months of great experiences in Sunbeams. He's gained a lot more confidence and courage about the whole thing thanks to his teachers, "Mister Brimley" and "Mister Moss" ;) He marched in there with happy anticipation and was well rewarded for his bravery.
And as for my explosion about the school situation, I am so glad I vented it out. Blogging really is therapeutic. After I put it down on "paper", I finally was able to calm down about it a little. Hopefully this week will bring some changes there. I read some words from President Monson today that we are taking to heart. "Through personal prayer, through family prayer, by trusting in God with faith, nothing wavering, we can call down to our rescue His mighty power. His call to us is as it has ever been: “Come unto me.”
I'm just glad that Kinley and Tanner mastered their nerves and conquered their fears of attending a new ward and that they were helped along so well in their transition. After her school experience, Kinley was terrified to go to church today. But Tanner... he's a different little boy now after 9 months of great experiences in Sunbeams. He's gained a lot more confidence and courage about the whole thing thanks to his teachers, "Mister Brimley" and "Mister Moss" ;) He marched in there with happy anticipation and was well rewarded for his bravery.
And as for my explosion about the school situation, I am so glad I vented it out. Blogging really is therapeutic. After I put it down on "paper", I finally was able to calm down about it a little. Hopefully this week will bring some changes there. I read some words from President Monson today that we are taking to heart. "Through personal prayer, through family prayer, by trusting in God with faith, nothing wavering, we can call down to our rescue His mighty power. His call to us is as it has ever been: “Come unto me.”
First Tooth!!
This morning while Crew was gnawing on my hand in his usual voracious way, I noticed a "sharp" difference! A wee little tooth has popped through on the bottom! I can't believe it! He's my earliest teether by far! He also has started eating chunky foods and is doing unexpectedly well with them. Furthermore, he has started sampling vittles from my dinner plate and he loves his mama's cookin'. He's growing up so fast!
Home Sweet Home
Slowly but surely we are getting closer to being unpacked. Tonight I might tackle the playroom, which I really should have done first. We are excited to replace our weeny little Shopko kitchen table with a dining set that fits our whole family. We're rearranging things all the time. But every day we wake up and say to each other "I just love our new house."
We went to church today and it was very nice. I was beginning to wonder who was in our ward because we are surrounded by empty houses, empty lots, and nice neighbors of different faiths.
I was crazy impressed with both the Primary and the Relief Society. Justin is so-so on the E.Q. Kinley didn't want to take her heavy scriptures to class with her, so I sent the pretty pink bundle to class with Justin, hoping it would be a good conversation starter in EQ. Ha ha! Didn't work. :)
The Primary Presidency greeted us at the door and swept the kids right into the thick of things. The Primary President walked them both to their new seats, introduced each of them to someone in the class that they hoped would be a good friend-fit for them, and then sat with Tanner for opening exercises. Both of the kids came home positively beaming. There are a bazillion kids their ages, but I think we have landed in the ward with the highest number of twins (and triplets) per capita... oy...
Even though we hadn't attended the ward yet until today, the Relief Society Presidency stopped by earlier in the week, having noticed the boxes in the windows, realizing someone had moved into the house. We weren't home when they came, but it was still a nice gesture.
I listened to the comments during the lessons and met several people throughout the meetings and just had a calm sense of "ahhh...... this is going to be a great ward to be a part of." It reminds me a lot of the ward we just left. Nevertheless, I understand it will take time to become fully assimilated.
Now...
This is a stark contrast to what we are experiencing with Kinley's school. That situation has been very frustrating so far. Kinley was assigned to first grade teacher with the smallest class. That means she was the least requested. I hoped she might just be new, but no. She's just least requested. And obnoxious. She's a snappish know-it-all shrew that uses harsh tones and clearly doesn't appreciate the treasure she has in Kinley. It's been hard to go from one teacher who loved her dearly and who practically wept when she left the school to a new teacher who is convinced that Kinley is a slow, daydreaming problem child. I met someone in the neighborhood that confirmed my strong suspicion that Kinley drew the bum teacher.
She's also having friend problems. She was so excited to come home and tell me that she had made friends at school. The next day she came home in tears because they told her they didn't want to be her friend after all. She's had to defend a neighbor friend who was laughed at because she's "fat". That, of course, just put a target on her back. She's been hit in the face with a ball and told by the recess guards that "it's ok. It was just a bouncy ball." People tell me "this is normal." What the hell is so normal about this behavior? It may be common, but it's not normal.
On top of all of that, there have been a few things that have embarrassed Kinley because no one informed us. Picture Day? First graders all bring a snack for morning recess? Imagine her mortification sitting there all by herself, the only child without a snack. And then when her teacher asked for her picture money. Hello, how are we to know these things if you don't tell us? Do I look clairvoyant?
All of my prayers lately have been for Kinley's school situation to turn around.
When Crew was in the NICU, my mood and emotions were all tied to his successes and struggles. I'm in that situation again with Kinley. When Kinley is happy, I'm happy; when Kinley is feeling wounded, I'm a raging, sleepless lunatic.
So many things are so good. We just need this part to improve. Dramatically.
We went to church today and it was very nice. I was beginning to wonder who was in our ward because we are surrounded by empty houses, empty lots, and nice neighbors of different faiths.
I was crazy impressed with both the Primary and the Relief Society. Justin is so-so on the E.Q. Kinley didn't want to take her heavy scriptures to class with her, so I sent the pretty pink bundle to class with Justin, hoping it would be a good conversation starter in EQ. Ha ha! Didn't work. :)
The Primary Presidency greeted us at the door and swept the kids right into the thick of things. The Primary President walked them both to their new seats, introduced each of them to someone in the class that they hoped would be a good friend-fit for them, and then sat with Tanner for opening exercises. Both of the kids came home positively beaming. There are a bazillion kids their ages, but I think we have landed in the ward with the highest number of twins (and triplets) per capita... oy...
Even though we hadn't attended the ward yet until today, the Relief Society Presidency stopped by earlier in the week, having noticed the boxes in the windows, realizing someone had moved into the house. We weren't home when they came, but it was still a nice gesture.
I listened to the comments during the lessons and met several people throughout the meetings and just had a calm sense of "ahhh...... this is going to be a great ward to be a part of." It reminds me a lot of the ward we just left. Nevertheless, I understand it will take time to become fully assimilated.
Now...
This is a stark contrast to what we are experiencing with Kinley's school. That situation has been very frustrating so far. Kinley was assigned to first grade teacher with the smallest class. That means she was the least requested. I hoped she might just be new, but no. She's just least requested. And obnoxious. She's a snappish know-it-all shrew that uses harsh tones and clearly doesn't appreciate the treasure she has in Kinley. It's been hard to go from one teacher who loved her dearly and who practically wept when she left the school to a new teacher who is convinced that Kinley is a slow, daydreaming problem child. I met someone in the neighborhood that confirmed my strong suspicion that Kinley drew the bum teacher.
She's also having friend problems. She was so excited to come home and tell me that she had made friends at school. The next day she came home in tears because they told her they didn't want to be her friend after all. She's had to defend a neighbor friend who was laughed at because she's "fat". That, of course, just put a target on her back. She's been hit in the face with a ball and told by the recess guards that "it's ok. It was just a bouncy ball." People tell me "this is normal." What the hell is so normal about this behavior? It may be common, but it's not normal.
On top of all of that, there have been a few things that have embarrassed Kinley because no one informed us. Picture Day? First graders all bring a snack for morning recess? Imagine her mortification sitting there all by herself, the only child without a snack. And then when her teacher asked for her picture money. Hello, how are we to know these things if you don't tell us? Do I look clairvoyant?
All of my prayers lately have been for Kinley's school situation to turn around.
When Crew was in the NICU, my mood and emotions were all tied to his successes and struggles. I'm in that situation again with Kinley. When Kinley is happy, I'm happy; when Kinley is feeling wounded, I'm a raging, sleepless lunatic.
So many things are so good. We just need this part to improve. Dramatically.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Friday, September 18, 2009
That Sweet Boy of Mine
Last night I had a baby shower in the old neighborhood, so I stopped by the cemetery on my way. The very moment that I turned into the gates, the song When I Get Where I'm Going came on the radio.
I met a woman there, a mommy new to the Angel Garden. She's a single mom that just lost her baby a month ago when her angel grew wings at 37 weeks gestation, due to an umbilical cord accident.
We talked, hugged, and had ourselves a good cry beneath a very bright and very unexpected rainbow shining across the mountain. We're so lucky to have such kind and loving children who so sneakily help arrange these special healing moments for us.
Dex has good friends in the Angel Garden. Mercy and Nevaeh ("Heaven" spelled backwards) are just a few of the special people he knows. Ash, be on the lookout for a new tribute going in just a half step away from Mercy's stone.
I met a woman there, a mommy new to the Angel Garden. She's a single mom that just lost her baby a month ago when her angel grew wings at 37 weeks gestation, due to an umbilical cord accident.
We talked, hugged, and had ourselves a good cry beneath a very bright and very unexpected rainbow shining across the mountain. We're so lucky to have such kind and loving children who so sneakily help arrange these special healing moments for us.
Dex has good friends in the Angel Garden. Mercy and Nevaeh ("Heaven" spelled backwards) are just a few of the special people he knows. Ash, be on the lookout for a new tribute going in just a half step away from Mercy's stone.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Ring Ring!
We have had the same phone number since the day we married more than 9 years ago. I was looking forward to starting fresh with a brand new phone number, hiding from telemarketers as long as possible. It didn't occur to me that we might get someone else's old recycled phone number.
And to that I say:
Pamela Painter, whoever you are... I hate you.
And to that I say:
Pamela Painter, whoever you are... I hate you.
Mean and Green
We can pay $11 per month for garbage pick up or $11 per month for garbage and recycling pick up. Knowing a good deal when he hears one, Justin opted for the "free" blue can. We could stand to be a little greener anyway.
Now, at the risk of exposing my total ignorance, I must pose the question to you:
How on earth do we recycle? I don't have any clue where to begin. How does this work? What do I recycle? Do I collect it in plastic garbage bags like my regular trash? Do I have to separate it out by material? (not gonna happen)
What do I do??
Now, at the risk of exposing my total ignorance, I must pose the question to you:
How on earth do we recycle? I don't have any clue where to begin. How does this work? What do I recycle? Do I collect it in plastic garbage bags like my regular trash? Do I have to separate it out by material? (not gonna happen)
What do I do??
And On We Go
Crew slept well all night long and is seemingly rejuvenated. Tanner has perked up as well. Health has returned to our home at last. Sigh...
Last night we handed off the keys to the new tenants. Taking that final walk through our old home reminded me of a Survivor finale, when the contestants travel a pathway, reflecting upon the memories made along the journey. We love that place and we'll really miss living there, and I'm glad it's not too far to visit when we get the itch.
Kinley is gone from 8:30 until 4:15 every day. I miss her so much. I worry that she's safe, that she's happy, that the kids are being kind, and that the teacher will appreciate the treasure that she is. It hasn't been all smiles and joy with the school transition, but I think it's been harder for me than it has been for Kinley. My Mama Bear instinct is pretty honed. I've also realized that I need to get dinner prepped much earlier in the day. If she doesn't get home until 4:15, I can't afford to spend my evening making dinner and ignoring my princess.
We have met a few neighbors and we have fallen in love with the area. There are a lot of elementary schools and the boundaries are kind of skeewampus, so there are no guarantees that people she meets will attend her school. Plus, there is a charter school within walking distance that a ton of the neighbor children attend. Plus, even if they do attend the same school, they may be on a different attendance track/schedule. It's all so complicated!
Nevertheless, I have a great feeling about the future. Being here feels so good and so right.
Things are pluggin' along and we're continuing to unpack. We haven't been able to do much of that since the weekend. Speaking of which, I need to get back to that. Would you believe I didn't take any pictures of the chaos while it was in progress? I was that stressed out about it. I'll post a few pictures once I find my cord for the camera. And once we get a few more things organized.
Last night we handed off the keys to the new tenants. Taking that final walk through our old home reminded me of a Survivor finale, when the contestants travel a pathway, reflecting upon the memories made along the journey. We love that place and we'll really miss living there, and I'm glad it's not too far to visit when we get the itch.
Kinley is gone from 8:30 until 4:15 every day. I miss her so much. I worry that she's safe, that she's happy, that the kids are being kind, and that the teacher will appreciate the treasure that she is. It hasn't been all smiles and joy with the school transition, but I think it's been harder for me than it has been for Kinley. My Mama Bear instinct is pretty honed. I've also realized that I need to get dinner prepped much earlier in the day. If she doesn't get home until 4:15, I can't afford to spend my evening making dinner and ignoring my princess.
We have met a few neighbors and we have fallen in love with the area. There are a lot of elementary schools and the boundaries are kind of skeewampus, so there are no guarantees that people she meets will attend her school. Plus, there is a charter school within walking distance that a ton of the neighbor children attend. Plus, even if they do attend the same school, they may be on a different attendance track/schedule. It's all so complicated!
Nevertheless, I have a great feeling about the future. Being here feels so good and so right.
Things are pluggin' along and we're continuing to unpack. We haven't been able to do much of that since the weekend. Speaking of which, I need to get back to that. Would you believe I didn't take any pictures of the chaos while it was in progress? I was that stressed out about it. I'll post a few pictures once I find my cord for the camera. And once we get a few more things organized.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
That Which Doth Not Kill...
...Made Crew stronger!
He took a 4-hour nap this morning, woke up happy, drank a good lunch, and then... drum roll please...
rolled all the way onto his belly from his back! Yay, big boy!! He's been trying to do that for a long time and has finally succeeded! Wahoo!
He took a 4-hour nap this morning, woke up happy, drank a good lunch, and then... drum roll please...
rolled all the way onto his belly from his back! Yay, big boy!! He's been trying to do that for a long time and has finally succeeded! Wahoo!
Dear Crew
I am so glad that you seem like you might be thinking about feeling better. Two nights in the rocking chair, holding you while you cry, hasn't been good for my sanity. Or my back. Please wake up from your nap happy.
Love,
Mommy
P.S. Thanks for puking on the kitchen floor and not the carpet. You're a good boy.
Love,
Mommy
P.S. Thanks for puking on the kitchen floor and not the carpet. You're a good boy.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
A Rose By Any Other Name...
So, a funny thing happened on a leisurely, exploratory drive through our new hometown. I first noticed it when I got lost following directions, confusing street names. After further investigation I was vaguely amused. Eventually I became slightly alarmed. And I am sitting here now, utterly bewildered.
Who was in charge of naming the streets in this place? I present to you a list of street names that I have come across in my travels:
Rosecrest
Rose Canyon
Rosaleen
Rosie Lane
Whisper Rose
Crown Rose
Arcadia Rose
Rose Summit
Ashland Rose
Rosescape
Amber Rose
Placid Rose
Rose Point
Ashland Rose
Pebble Rose
Pine Rose
Hidden Rose
Alder Rose
Sierra Rose
Helena Rose
Havanna Rose
Tuscan Rose
Garden Rose
Cottage Rose
Roselina
Rosemill
Rosewater
River Rose
Who was in charge of naming the streets in this place? I present to you a list of street names that I have come across in my travels:
Rosecrest
Rose Canyon
Rosaleen
Rosie Lane
Whisper Rose
Crown Rose
Arcadia Rose
Rose Summit
Ashland Rose
Rosescape
Amber Rose
Placid Rose
Rose Point
Ashland Rose
Pebble Rose
Pine Rose
Hidden Rose
Alder Rose
Sierra Rose
Helena Rose
Havanna Rose
Tuscan Rose
Garden Rose
Cottage Rose
Roselina
Rosemill
Rosewater
River Rose
Chuggin' Along
I won't say that today was the worst day of my life, but it wasn't my favorite either. Justin and I have been up since 1:00 in the morning with Crew feverish and miserable. He never did throw up like Kinley did, but he screamed most of the night. I can't believe he didn't wake Kinley. What a blessing. Tanner woke up this morning with a fever as well and has been a little whimpery and lethargic, but otherwise seems to be on the mend.
All night I was absolutely dreading the dawn because I knew we would be finishing up the townhouse clean up. Blech, blech, and double blech. But: We. are. done. Halla-freaking-lujah. Crew alternated between crying and sleeping in his carseat and Tanner whined on a neighbor's couch while Justin and I worked. I need to scrub the hard water off the shower doors again and pack up the final freezer items in a cooler and then we're done!
Kinley has survived her first two days at school. She's at an "excellent" school, by all reports, and I'm anxious for her to get into a groove. It's definitely going to take some adjustment... for all of us.
I'm tired and I need a nap. I found an old freezer meal stashed in my freezer at the townhouse. Homecooking tonight! With no work!
All night I was absolutely dreading the dawn because I knew we would be finishing up the townhouse clean up. Blech, blech, and double blech. But: We. are. done. Halla-freaking-lujah. Crew alternated between crying and sleeping in his carseat and Tanner whined on a neighbor's couch while Justin and I worked. I need to scrub the hard water off the shower doors again and pack up the final freezer items in a cooler and then we're done!
Kinley has survived her first two days at school. She's at an "excellent" school, by all reports, and I'm anxious for her to get into a groove. It's definitely going to take some adjustment... for all of us.
I'm tired and I need a nap. I found an old freezer meal stashed in my freezer at the townhouse. Homecooking tonight! With no work!
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Progress
We made some serious headway today. It was nice to have Justin home to haul things around at my command. Yesterday he was in Springville for the better part of the day watching the BYU game because we didn't have cable yet. Me? Bitter? Nah... in fact, despite my threats, I have decided to allow Justin to live here with us after all :) Nothing like a move to bring out the best in people!
It's really interesting to completely re-think every aspect of our organization. I decided I needed an entire shelf in the bathroom closet dedicated to menstruation. Don't you think every woman needs a period shelf? A little shrine to the monthly monster?
It's been 17 years since I have lived in a place that didn't share walls with the neighbors. It's an oddly liberating feeling. There were a few newlywed couples along the way that I knew a little too well, if you know what I mean. Now I can yell at my kids and belch as loud as I want with total impunity. Life will be fantastic once we get window coverings on Wednesday. I'm crazy sexy hot and all in my maternity hand-me-down "mop shirt" nightie, but privacy will be nice all the same.
Kinley is feeling much better this evening and is on target to make it to school in the morning. On a side note, I was reading through the school lunch literature this afternoon and was startled by some of the life-scars-in-the-making that I was reading about. Before you chastise me, I do understand the reasoning and I do understand the difficult situation of the school and I don't have a better solution. But I got the chilly willies when I read essentially "children who have run out of credits on their lunch account will have a stamp placed on their hand to remind their parents to pay up." A stamp on their hand?? A stamp on their hand? Why not just brand a scarlet letter on their foreheads? Yeah, so I clearly have residual lunch issues. Am I unusually sensitive to public humiliation over school lunch? Well if I am, I'm equally hung up on elementary school Valentine exchanges...
In case you can't tell, I am completely delirious with exhaustion. I'm not looking forward to tomorrow because I'll be spending the day cleaning the old townhouse after dropping my princess off with strangers and hoping for the best. I'll definitely miss our old home. I had myself a good weep about it on Friday. I'm sure it won't be the last.
Oh, and P.S., I found my underwear. We're all so happy about that.
It's really interesting to completely re-think every aspect of our organization. I decided I needed an entire shelf in the bathroom closet dedicated to menstruation. Don't you think every woman needs a period shelf? A little shrine to the monthly monster?
It's been 17 years since I have lived in a place that didn't share walls with the neighbors. It's an oddly liberating feeling. There were a few newlywed couples along the way that I knew a little too well, if you know what I mean. Now I can yell at my kids and belch as loud as I want with total impunity. Life will be fantastic once we get window coverings on Wednesday. I'm crazy sexy hot and all in my maternity hand-me-down "mop shirt" nightie, but privacy will be nice all the same.
Kinley is feeling much better this evening and is on target to make it to school in the morning. On a side note, I was reading through the school lunch literature this afternoon and was startled by some of the life-scars-in-the-making that I was reading about. Before you chastise me, I do understand the reasoning and I do understand the difficult situation of the school and I don't have a better solution. But I got the chilly willies when I read essentially "children who have run out of credits on their lunch account will have a stamp placed on their hand to remind their parents to pay up." A stamp on their hand?? A stamp on their hand? Why not just brand a scarlet letter on their foreheads? Yeah, so I clearly have residual lunch issues. Am I unusually sensitive to public humiliation over school lunch? Well if I am, I'm equally hung up on elementary school Valentine exchanges...
In case you can't tell, I am completely delirious with exhaustion. I'm not looking forward to tomorrow because I'll be spending the day cleaning the old townhouse after dropping my princess off with strangers and hoping for the best. I'll definitely miss our old home. I had myself a good weep about it on Friday. I'm sure it won't be the last.
Oh, and P.S., I found my underwear. We're all so happy about that.
Moving In
Well, we have spent the last two nights in our new house. It's been really exciting. I can definitely see why everyone has said that the unpacking stage is a lot more fun than the packing stage. Yesterday I unpacked the entire kitchen. The organization makes perfect sense to me, but I doubt anyone else would be able to find anything in it! LOL!
Kinley has been extremely sick since yesterday morning. She's had a pretty high fever and has thrown up all over our nice new wood floors. She's still looking very icky this morning, so I have no idea whether she'll be well by tomorrow, when she is supposed to start school. I discovered her illness when I sent the kids outside to the front porch yesterday to enjoy a sunrise breakfast. After a while I heard a weird sound that I couldn't find. I ignored it for a long time until I finally realized it was coming from the front porch. I opened the door and Kinley was sobbing her eyes out at top volume because she didn't feel well. Way to make a great first impression in the neighborhood!
Our fridge is backordered until October, but Sears has given us a loaner for the mean time. We decided to keep it in the garage until our real fridge arrives. That inconvenient location has added some unforeseen complications and is already getting really old.
I'm super tired, but so glad to be here. The Walmart is kinda ritzy. I didn't feel like I had to shower when we left it. The view from our kitchen window is extraordinary, and I'll be so sad to lose it when the new firehouse is finished!! We've eaten out a lot recently (which I happen to love) but now that the kitchen is finished (and it's Sunday), I plan to make my first meal in the house tonight!
I got a decent night's sleep last night and since we are housebound with a puking daughter today, we'll continue to plow through boxes. It would be nice to find my underwear anyway.
Kinley has been extremely sick since yesterday morning. She's had a pretty high fever and has thrown up all over our nice new wood floors. She's still looking very icky this morning, so I have no idea whether she'll be well by tomorrow, when she is supposed to start school. I discovered her illness when I sent the kids outside to the front porch yesterday to enjoy a sunrise breakfast. After a while I heard a weird sound that I couldn't find. I ignored it for a long time until I finally realized it was coming from the front porch. I opened the door and Kinley was sobbing her eyes out at top volume because she didn't feel well. Way to make a great first impression in the neighborhood!
Our fridge is backordered until October, but Sears has given us a loaner for the mean time. We decided to keep it in the garage until our real fridge arrives. That inconvenient location has added some unforeseen complications and is already getting really old.
I'm super tired, but so glad to be here. The Walmart is kinda ritzy. I didn't feel like I had to shower when we left it. The view from our kitchen window is extraordinary, and I'll be so sad to lose it when the new firehouse is finished!! We've eaten out a lot recently (which I happen to love) but now that the kitchen is finished (and it's Sunday), I plan to make my first meal in the house tonight!
I got a decent night's sleep last night and since we are housebound with a puking daughter today, we'll continue to plow through boxes. It would be nice to find my underwear anyway.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
THIS???
With all the insanity of the last year, THIS is what sends me around the bend?
Ahhh.... the truck is loooooooaded. I can't wait until this time next week... How do so many people do this so often? I'm ready to grow old and die in our new house before I pack up and move again.
P.S. Our neighbors rock. We feel loved. Well, they either love us, or are willing to do anything to ensure we vacate the neighborhood as quickly as possible... Hmmmm....
Ahhh.... the truck is loooooooaded. I can't wait until this time next week... How do so many people do this so often? I'm ready to grow old and die in our new house before I pack up and move again.
P.S. Our neighbors rock. We feel loved. Well, they either love us, or are willing to do anything to ensure we vacate the neighborhood as quickly as possible... Hmmmm....
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Monday, September 7, 2009
The End of an Era
Kinley and Tanner won't be sharing a room when we move to the new house. I'll miss overhearing the bedtime belching contests... maybe.
LABOR Day
Yeah.... Happy Manual Labor Day to us.
And a big thank you to the good folks at Coca-Cola, specifically, the inventors and distributors of Diet Coke. Hugs to you!
And a big thank you to the good folks at Coca-Cola, specifically, the inventors and distributors of Diet Coke. Hugs to you!
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Becky! Come Dig Through My Trash Anytime!
But you'd better come quick! The best things will be gone! Things like:
Half-empty bottles of lotion that smell like decaying petunias
Matchless socks
Shrunken/misshapen maternity tops. Take your pick -- stained or holey!
Legless plastic horses, goats, cows, and dinosaurs
An 8-inch stack of "Welcome to the NICU" paperwork
Cassettes with "vintage" collections of love songs from Justin's high school days
Frayed jump ropes (2!)
Half-empty bag of "Depends" underpants from the last pregnancy
Crystallized cough syrup (expired in 2007)
Deposit slips for an account that was closed in 2001
Old work shirts, polo style, size Large, Men's. Available in fuschia pink and banana yellow. I was pregnant with Kinley when we got them. I figured I needed room to grow. No trash bin for them! Straight to the D.I.!
Scrubs. Color: Barney purple. Like new... except for the thighs worn clear through.
Old retainer cases
2001 wall calendar
And So. Much. More!!
Half-empty bottles of lotion that smell like decaying petunias
Matchless socks
Shrunken/misshapen maternity tops. Take your pick -- stained or holey!
Legless plastic horses, goats, cows, and dinosaurs
An 8-inch stack of "Welcome to the NICU" paperwork
Cassettes with "vintage" collections of love songs from Justin's high school days
Frayed jump ropes (2!)
Half-empty bag of "Depends" underpants from the last pregnancy
Crystallized cough syrup (expired in 2007)
Deposit slips for an account that was closed in 2001
Old work shirts, polo style, size Large, Men's. Available in fuschia pink and banana yellow. I was pregnant with Kinley when we got them. I figured I needed room to grow. No trash bin for them! Straight to the D.I.!
Scrubs. Color: Barney purple. Like new... except for the thighs worn clear through.
Old retainer cases
2001 wall calendar
And So. Much. More!!
I Hate That I Love It
I am experiencing a love-hate relationship with this whole packing thing. I hate it for the obvious reasons. And I love how organized our belongings are becoming. I love the freedom of saying "goodbye" to junk we no longer need. There are different levels of worth, I've discovered. So many items that made "the cut" the last time I went through the closets don't stand up to the value test now that I have to assign it space in a box, transport it, and dream up a storage spot for it in our new home. That's a whole different level of worth! When in doubt, pitch it!!
We still have a ways to go, but we are definitely getting much closer. I feel really good about where we are in the process. But I still hate it. And love it.
We still have a ways to go, but we are definitely getting much closer. I feel really good about where we are in the process. But I still hate it. And love it.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
The Kissy Monster
I am pleased to report back that there have been no official sightings of a blond, blue-eyed recess kissy monster at the elementary school.
I remember kissing Jason Remington on the street corner in the first grade, wearing my favorite blue dress. My sister Heather packed a Bible in her backpack that day so that she could "marry" us on the way home from school. Ah, good times :)
I remember kissing Jason Remington on the street corner in the first grade, wearing my favorite blue dress. My sister Heather packed a Bible in her backpack that day so that she could "marry" us on the way home from school. Ah, good times :)
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
What We've Learned in This Home
We've been living in this townhouse for exactly 6 1/2 years. Kinley was 3 weeks old when we moved the last time. For all intents and purposes, this is where we became parents. While we are excited for our new adventures and upcoming fresh start, we will dearly miss this beloved little community. In the last 6+ years, we've learned more than we thought possible and have made some treasured life-long friends.
I'd like to think that I'm leaving this area a better person than I was when I came into it, and if that's true, it's because of the people I've been surrounded by. I've been mulling over the things I have learned in the last 6 years, feeling extremely grateful for the opportunity that we have had to be here.
Things I've Learned
I'd like to think that I'm leaving this area a better person than I was when I came into it, and if that's true, it's because of the people I've been surrounded by. I've been mulling over the things I have learned in the last 6 years, feeling extremely grateful for the opportunity that we have had to be here.
Things I've Learned
- We are all more alike than we are different
- If you "build a girls night out, they will come".
- I'm not weird; I'm "quirky"
- Everyone thinks they are the weird one
- Women love food. The End.
- You don't have to be afraid to bring up someone's loss or struggle. Sometimes they really want/need to talk about it with someone who isn't freaked out by it.
- There are all kinds of normal people that live in Utah (who knew?)
- Utah is a great place to raise a family (again, who knew?)
- People have struggles and challenges in Utah, just like everywhere else. Drug addiction, divorce, illness, single parenthood, lonliness, depression, etc.
- Playdates are really fun
- Entertaining children doesn't have to cost a lot of money
- Blogs make the world go round
- The world doesn't generally play fair
- It's ok to be different
- Bad things happen to good people
- Everyone has baggage
- Most people really mean well and would never intentionally hurt or offend anyone
- Everyone is looking for understanding and friendship
- You can learn to love anybody
- First impressions are often misleading. Take another look.
- I like juvenile and teen literature. A lot.
- Kind words make a huge difference
- Chicken soup tastes best when someone else makes it because they add their own love
- There is always someone else in a more difficult situation
- If someone is on your mind a lot, you should call/email/text them
- Nursery callings are not for the faint of heart
- You don't have to hide your ambition and eccentricities to fit in
- You can find happiness anywhere
- Food in general tastes better when someone else makes it
- Visiting Teaching is an inspired program
- Houseguests should stay no longer than 6 days
- Lime Away and CLR are fantastic for removing hard water stains
- DVD players are not a passing fad. Neither are cell phones.
- We are "mini-van people" after all
- I don't hate football
- A great stylist and enough product can make your hair do marvelous things
- Losing weight is possible
- Endorphins rock
- The 5 "S"es are sanity-saving
- We make super cute kids
- People can change
- Sometimes people don't change
- I wouldn't choose to see my trials in advance, (ie. a crystal ball). They are so much more palatable without anticapatory anxiety.
- I would choose my own trials over those of other people. Except wealth. I'd like the trial of wealth. I'd like the burden of being filthy, stinking rich.
- Life is short
- All women should have a proper bra fitting done by a professional
- There are worse things than being up at night with a crying baby; like not being up at night with a crying baby.
- What "they" say about making "ass-umptions" really is true
- It really is better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all
- Women need other women
- Bedtime stories make lasting memories
- Magic Eraser is, well... magic
- PhotoShop Elements is also magic
- Speaking of magic, Disneyland is great at any age
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Spin, Spin, Spin...
I have reached the so-not-fun part of pack, pack, packing. I'm overwhelmed by the piles of "miscellaneous" that I don't want to sort through. Blech.
"They" Say
"They" say that you shouldn't make any major changes for the first year after a devastating loss or tragedy. "They" say you shouldn't do anything crazy like change employment or move residences or make a radical hair transformation.
What do you think "they" would say to us doing all three? Bu-wahahahahaha!!
Speaking of "the move" coming up next week. I have officially reached "overwhelmed and paralyzed". It struck early this afternoon. Yay!
What do you think "they" would say to us doing all three? Bu-wahahahahaha!!
Speaking of "the move" coming up next week. I have officially reached "overwhelmed and paralyzed". It struck early this afternoon. Yay!
Parent Teacher Conference
Mommy: Kinley, Parent/Teacher Conference is tomorrow.
Kinley: Oh, boy. I don't like Parent/Teacher Conferences.
Mommy: Why not? Your teachers always tell me how awesome you are in those conferences.
Kinley: Well, I am awesome, but I still don't like them. (no vanity there)
Mommy: Why? Do you have something to tell me?
Kinley: No. I haven't been kissing boys at recess, that's for sure.
I can't WAIT for Parent-Teacher Conference!
Kinley: Oh, boy. I don't like Parent/Teacher Conferences.
Mommy: Why not? Your teachers always tell me how awesome you are in those conferences.
Kinley: Well, I am awesome, but I still don't like them. (no vanity there)
Mommy: Why? Do you have something to tell me?
Kinley: No. I haven't been kissing boys at recess, that's for sure.
I can't WAIT for Parent-Teacher Conference!
Classic Starts Sale Ending!
Get your Classic Starts books from Barnes and Noble while they are still on sale! Sale ending today or tomorrow.
Click here to see the whole selection!
Click here to see the whole selection!
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