Posts
It's starting to get to me. I'm beginning to lose control. The talking vegetables are taking over my brain.
The Veggie Tales Silly Songs countdown (the top songs were determined by the Astonishing Contraption of Silliness) is magic in this house.
Turn on Dora, Sesame Street, Bob the Builder, and Kaylee lasts but a few minutes. But, turn on the Silly Songs countdown, and she is good. to. GO. for an entire hour.
She watches it in the mornings while we get ready for work, and I've also been known to bust it out when she pushes me to the brink of a nervous breakdown.
This morning I realized just how much it's taking over my head. I'm standing in the kitchen making my morning cereal, and I begin to sing...
"Barbara manatee (manatee, manatee!), you are the ONE for me (one for me, one for me). You are the ONE I love (one I love, the one I love!)."
I'd sung nearly the entire song out loud before I even realize what I was doing.
Sad. I know.
I can hear it in the background as I type. I think we're at the point in the countdown where it's about time to hear about how one of the talking veggies landed in lip rehab for 6 weeks because he got his lip stuck in a gate, met a new friend in lip rehab (who ended up in lip rehab because a bee stung him - right in the lip!), and learned to speak Polish, but only after telling his therapist about his Aunt Ruth's beard.
"It felt weird, she had a beard, what could he do?"
God help me...
It's time for the song of the saboo. It's a song about a sick saboo, a sad saboo, and a mother who was ever-so-thankful for this ridiculous video that guarantees an hour of sanity each day.
Ok, sometimes two hours. Three if it's a really bad day.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Tell me I'm normal. Please.
Ok, it's been creeping up on me. And it's finally just around the corner. And I'm not sure how I'm going to handle it.
My baby's turning 1 next week, and I'm having some mixed feelings about it.
Of course I'm excited to celebrate and party and watch her open presents and dive into her cake.
But, I'm also a bit sad.
My baby is growing up. So fast. I just can't believe it was almost a year ago that she was born.
I keep recalling memories of the day she was born. So, next week on her birthday, I'm loading her up in the car, all dressed up in her birthday dress, and we're taking cookies to the nurses at the OB department at the hospital, and to my OB doctor's office.
I'm not quite sure if I'm going to have a miniature breakdown on that day or not. I'm definitely expecting a few tears, but hopefully they'll fall when I'm home with her by myself.
In the grand scheme of things, I realize it's all about my attitude. Sure, it's fine to get sentimental and a little teary that she's growing up and changing so much. I'm her mom. It's my job to feel that way.
But, I don't want to focus on that. I want to celebrate that she is a healthy, vibrant, spunky little girl, and I want to celebrate the fact that Dennis and I survived our first year as parents. We survived works of art created by poop and baby toes, sleepless nights, teething, postpartum depression, 18 days of mysterious hives, a nasty flu bug, and all the other stuff first-time parents struggle with in that first year.
We've done good.
So, mamas, what about you? How did you feel on your baby's first birthday?
My baby's turning 1 next week, and I'm having some mixed feelings about it.
Of course I'm excited to celebrate and party and watch her open presents and dive into her cake.
But, I'm also a bit sad.
My baby is growing up. So fast. I just can't believe it was almost a year ago that she was born.
I keep recalling memories of the day she was born. So, next week on her birthday, I'm loading her up in the car, all dressed up in her birthday dress, and we're taking cookies to the nurses at the OB department at the hospital, and to my OB doctor's office.
I'm not quite sure if I'm going to have a miniature breakdown on that day or not. I'm definitely expecting a few tears, but hopefully they'll fall when I'm home with her by myself.
In the grand scheme of things, I realize it's all about my attitude. Sure, it's fine to get sentimental and a little teary that she's growing up and changing so much. I'm her mom. It's my job to feel that way.
But, I don't want to focus on that. I want to celebrate that she is a healthy, vibrant, spunky little girl, and I want to celebrate the fact that Dennis and I survived our first year as parents. We survived works of art created by poop and baby toes, sleepless nights, teething, postpartum depression, 18 days of mysterious hives, a nasty flu bug, and all the other stuff first-time parents struggle with in that first year.
We've done good.
So, mamas, what about you? How did you feel on your baby's first birthday?
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Screaming babies, crazy mamas, big butts, and my recent absence
By screaming babies, I mean Kaylee.
By crazy mamas, I mean me.
And, by big butts I mean "Baby Got Back" by Sir Mixalot.
I love that song. The words are crazy and ridiculous, but I know I can't be the only one who just belts it out loudly while driving. Come on, you know you've done it.
So, I'm sure you've noticed I've been a little absent from the blog lately. I mean, I know your day starts by hoping and praying that I've published a new blog post, and I'm sure some of you have landed in therapy because you are sad when you don't see something new each and every morning.
But, worry not. I'm not going anywhere.
Last week, Kaylee and I took a ride on the Crazy Train, but rest assured - we have returned safe and sound, with no battle scars to show. She was going through the worst episode of teething to date. And I was trying with all my might not to lose my mind completely. I'm pretty sure part of it is gone, but let's just say it was a miracle I didn't take up drinking.
And by the way, can I just say that I've never, ever considered taking up drinking more times in my life than I have since I became a mom? I just had to get that out there...
So, anyway, we had 3 days in a row of pretty much non-stop screaming, crying, and whining. From both of us. Except I didn't do screaming. Just crying and whining. So, thank God for my sister-in-law who spoiled Kaylee on the 4th day so I didn't lose my mind entirely.
I know my blog was neglected, but life just happens. Something's gotta give some days, and last week, it was my blog. I sure did miss it because it definitely has a way of helping me deal with the craziness of my life.
Thanks, my lovely readers, for sticking with me, even when I don't post regularly. You are the best.
And, now I'm going to bed, because who knows whether or not I'll be getting a middle of the night wake-up call from my almost one-year-old.
By crazy mamas, I mean me.
And, by big butts I mean "Baby Got Back" by Sir Mixalot.
I love that song. The words are crazy and ridiculous, but I know I can't be the only one who just belts it out loudly while driving. Come on, you know you've done it.
So, I'm sure you've noticed I've been a little absent from the blog lately. I mean, I know your day starts by hoping and praying that I've published a new blog post, and I'm sure some of you have landed in therapy because you are sad when you don't see something new each and every morning.
But, worry not. I'm not going anywhere.
Last week, Kaylee and I took a ride on the Crazy Train, but rest assured - we have returned safe and sound, with no battle scars to show. She was going through the worst episode of teething to date. And I was trying with all my might not to lose my mind completely. I'm pretty sure part of it is gone, but let's just say it was a miracle I didn't take up drinking.
And by the way, can I just say that I've never, ever considered taking up drinking more times in my life than I have since I became a mom? I just had to get that out there...
So, anyway, we had 3 days in a row of pretty much non-stop screaming, crying, and whining. From both of us. Except I didn't do screaming. Just crying and whining. So, thank God for my sister-in-law who spoiled Kaylee on the 4th day so I didn't lose my mind entirely.
I know my blog was neglected, but life just happens. Something's gotta give some days, and last week, it was my blog. I sure did miss it because it definitely has a way of helping me deal with the craziness of my life.
Thanks, my lovely readers, for sticking with me, even when I don't post regularly. You are the best.
And, now I'm going to bed, because who knows whether or not I'll be getting a middle of the night wake-up call from my almost one-year-old.
*This post is a part of Thursday Writer's Workshop at Mama Kat's Losin' It.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Tuesday's Tribute - To fresh air
Ahhhhh...fresh air. Don't you love it?
I grew up in small towns in the Midwest, and some of my fondest childhood memories were of times when I was outside.
A few favorite fresh air memories...
Waiting until the sun was shining on my grandma's swing set so we could go outside and play on it.
Catching frogs.
Fishing.
Learning how to skip rocks from my Gramps.
Playing in the rock forts behind my grandparents' house with my cousins.
Swimming in the plastic kiddie pool in the backyard.
Running through sprinklers in the summer.
Jumping rope.
Playing jacks.
Building sand castles and volcanoes in the sand box.
Building snowmen and sledding.
Going camping and hunting.
The list goes on and on.
I suppose since it was such a huge part of my childhood, my love for the outdoors is just stuck with me for life, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
To me, there is just something so peaceful about getting away from the hustle and bustle. Getting away from sirens, honking horns, all the sounds of the city, and going to a place where you can't hear much of anything.
My favorite places to go are places where it's so quiet I can hear the wind rustling the leaves on the trees, I can hear the birds chirping, and where I can hear streams of water. The air is crisp, and clean, and just so darn refreshing.
I still love fishing, hiking, swinging at the park, camping (in a tent, not a camper) going for walks, skipping rocks...just being outside in general.
Oftentimes, when I start to realize that I'm losing my patience and feeling cooped up, Kaylee and I go outside. The fresh air hits her face and she just opens her mouth wide like she's trying to capture it. Just like this.
There really is nothing like a breath of fresh air.
So, when I heard about the Fresh Air Fund, I could hardly wait to tell you about it.
The Fresh Air fund provides upwards of 5,000 kids from New York City's roughest neighborhoods the chance to spend a couple weeks in the country or the suburbs during the summer months.
I can't imagine what my childhood would have been like had I not been able to be outside so much. I think every kid deserves to have an opportunity to enjoy the fresh air without having to worry about all the stuff that kids in the inner-city have to worry about.
The Fresh Air Fund needs volunteer families to host kiddos for a couple weeks this summer. If you can't do that, or if you don't live in an area that needs host families, you can help by donating to this awesome organization. Click here to find out if host families are needed in your area, and click here to learn more about this organization that's all about helping kids get the most out of childhood.
I grew up in small towns in the Midwest, and some of my fondest childhood memories were of times when I was outside.
A few favorite fresh air memories...
Waiting until the sun was shining on my grandma's swing set so we could go outside and play on it.
Catching frogs.
Fishing.
Learning how to skip rocks from my Gramps.
Playing in the rock forts behind my grandparents' house with my cousins.
Swimming in the plastic kiddie pool in the backyard.
Running through sprinklers in the summer.
Jumping rope.
Playing jacks.
Building sand castles and volcanoes in the sand box.
Building snowmen and sledding.
Going camping and hunting.
The list goes on and on.
I suppose since it was such a huge part of my childhood, my love for the outdoors is just stuck with me for life, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
To me, there is just something so peaceful about getting away from the hustle and bustle. Getting away from sirens, honking horns, all the sounds of the city, and going to a place where you can't hear much of anything.
My favorite places to go are places where it's so quiet I can hear the wind rustling the leaves on the trees, I can hear the birds chirping, and where I can hear streams of water. The air is crisp, and clean, and just so darn refreshing.
I still love fishing, hiking, swinging at the park, camping (in a tent, not a camper) going for walks, skipping rocks...just being outside in general.
Oftentimes, when I start to realize that I'm losing my patience and feeling cooped up, Kaylee and I go outside. The fresh air hits her face and she just opens her mouth wide like she's trying to capture it. Just like this.
There really is nothing like a breath of fresh air.
So, when I heard about the Fresh Air Fund, I could hardly wait to tell you about it.
The Fresh Air fund provides upwards of 5,000 kids from New York City's roughest neighborhoods the chance to spend a couple weeks in the country or the suburbs during the summer months.
I can't imagine what my childhood would have been like had I not been able to be outside so much. I think every kid deserves to have an opportunity to enjoy the fresh air without having to worry about all the stuff that kids in the inner-city have to worry about.
The Fresh Air Fund needs volunteer families to host kiddos for a couple weeks this summer. If you can't do that, or if you don't live in an area that needs host families, you can help by donating to this awesome organization. Click here to find out if host families are needed in your area, and click here to learn more about this organization that's all about helping kids get the most out of childhood.
This post is a part of Tuesdays' Tribute hosted by Angie at Seven Clown Circus.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Don't mind me. I'm just using my imagination.
It's that time again. Time for Mama Kat's Writer's Workshop, and this week I am so excited about the prompt because I get to imagine what I would do if I had $400 to spend. That's pretty amazing, considering my monthly allowance is about 20 bucks.
Of course, Mama Kat's prompt said I had to talk about ONE (and it was in all caps) thing that I would spend the money on. But, that's just not how I roll. If I've got a big wad of cash, I see how many things I can get with it. Plus, I can't really think of a $400 product that I want at the moment.
So, join me as I happily pretend that I could actually have all of these things. All at once.
Alright - so, I've got myself $400.
First, I would hit the mall. Duh.
I waltz into The Buckle, and I buy myself a pair of Lucky brand jeans. Because they always fit just right, and I haven't been able to wear a pair since I was 16 and no other brand of jeans fit my short legs. They are insanely expensive, but so well constructed. I've missed my Lucky jeans, so that's my first purchase.
$400 - $99 = $301
Since I'm at the mall, I think I'll head on down to Barnes and Noble. I shall order a Chai Latte made with soy milk.
$301 - $3.15 = $297.85
Gosh darn it, now I'm hungry. Guess I'll take a piece of crumble coffee cake, too.
$297.85 - $1.85 = $296
Well, would you look at the time, it's still before 6 p.m. I think I'll go catch a matinee. So, one ticket to see I Love You, Man - $5. Can of soda - $0. Kit Kat from home $0. Having a purse big enough to smuggle in movie treats - Priceless. :)
$296 - $5 = $291
Ok, well. There just happens to be a salon in the same complex as the theeatah, so I think I need to stop in and treat myself...
About 3 years ago I received a gift certificate for an Aveda botanical skin resurfacing (natural alternative to microdermabrasion) facial, and it was one of the best things that ever happened to me. SO. I'll take one of those...
And, my feet deserve some royal treatment since I trekked around the mall and wore them out. Plus, they look horrendous, and I want them to look beautiful. So, I'll take one of these, too, please. Spa style, with a parrafin wax dip, salt scrub, THE WORKS.
Ahhhh....I feel relaxed just talking about it. So, let's tally up the remaining cash money.
$291 - $85 facial = $206 - $65 pedicure = $141
By this time, I'm so relaxed I probably shouldn't be driving, so I head home to do some online shopping.
First purchase? A case of these puppies. Hey, I need to restock my at-home stash, and there have been many times I wish I had a six pack around, but I didn't, so now all will be well with the world...
$141 - $26.99 = $114.01
Next, I head to kohls.com. But, this next purchase needs an explanation. First off, these shoes are on sale. Second, in real life, I would never buy these shoes because I know I would twist my ankle and quite possibly even break it. But, I love these shoes, I've always wanted a pair, and this thing is all pretend anyway, so back off. I'm buying these shoes, dammit.
$114.01 - $32.99 = $81.02
And, I need a dress to go with the shoes...
$81.02 - $67.50 = $13.52
These beauties should top off the outfit.
$13.52 - $20 on etsy = negative $6.48
Hey, what my husband doesn't know won't hurt him. ;)
Of course, Mama Kat's prompt said I had to talk about ONE (and it was in all caps) thing that I would spend the money on. But, that's just not how I roll. If I've got a big wad of cash, I see how many things I can get with it. Plus, I can't really think of a $400 product that I want at the moment.
So, join me as I happily pretend that I could actually have all of these things. All at once.
Alright - so, I've got myself $400.
First, I would hit the mall. Duh.
I waltz into The Buckle, and I buy myself a pair of Lucky brand jeans. Because they always fit just right, and I haven't been able to wear a pair since I was 16 and no other brand of jeans fit my short legs. They are insanely expensive, but so well constructed. I've missed my Lucky jeans, so that's my first purchase.
$400 - $99 = $301
Since I'm at the mall, I think I'll head on down to Barnes and Noble. I shall order a Chai Latte made with soy milk.
$301 - $3.15 = $297.85
Gosh darn it, now I'm hungry. Guess I'll take a piece of crumble coffee cake, too.
$297.85 - $1.85 = $296
Well, would you look at the time, it's still before 6 p.m. I think I'll go catch a matinee. So, one ticket to see I Love You, Man - $5. Can of soda - $0. Kit Kat from home $0. Having a purse big enough to smuggle in movie treats - Priceless. :)
$296 - $5 = $291
Ok, well. There just happens to be a salon in the same complex as the theeatah, so I think I need to stop in and treat myself...
About 3 years ago I received a gift certificate for an Aveda botanical skin resurfacing (natural alternative to microdermabrasion) facial, and it was one of the best things that ever happened to me. SO. I'll take one of those...
And, my feet deserve some royal treatment since I trekked around the mall and wore them out. Plus, they look horrendous, and I want them to look beautiful. So, I'll take one of these, too, please. Spa style, with a parrafin wax dip, salt scrub, THE WORKS.
Ahhhh....I feel relaxed just talking about it. So, let's tally up the remaining cash money.
$291 - $85 facial = $206 - $65 pedicure = $141
By this time, I'm so relaxed I probably shouldn't be driving, so I head home to do some online shopping.
First purchase? A case of these puppies. Hey, I need to restock my at-home stash, and there have been many times I wish I had a six pack around, but I didn't, so now all will be well with the world...
$141 - $26.99 = $114.01
Next, I head to kohls.com. But, this next purchase needs an explanation. First off, these shoes are on sale. Second, in real life, I would never buy these shoes because I know I would twist my ankle and quite possibly even break it. But, I love these shoes, I've always wanted a pair, and this thing is all pretend anyway, so back off. I'm buying these shoes, dammit.
$114.01 - $32.99 = $81.02
And, I need a dress to go with the shoes...
$81.02 - $67.50 = $13.52
These beauties should top off the outfit.
$13.52 - $20 on etsy = negative $6.48
Hey, what my husband doesn't know won't hurt him. ;)
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
And...there's another Duggar baby on the way.
Well, at least this time it's not Michelle who's knocked up...
So, a few weeks ago I told you I was going to give the Duggars a break, and I chose to lay my weekly Duggar posts to rest. UNLESS any one of the following things happened:
1. Michelle got pregnant again.
2. Michelle got a new haircut.
3. The children started setting fire to things around the property.
4. Anna Duggar (Josh Duggar's new wife) got pregnant.
Well, apparently the sex ed lesson that Jim Bob gave to Josh on his wedding day in which he described sex as "kind of like Legos" somehow worked. Wow. Nice job, Josh. You did it, buddy!
So, Anna is pregnant and the Duggar's show on TLC, 18 Kids and Counting, is documenting her pregnancy. Looks like I'll have to add a new show to my DVR.
You can read all about the news straight from the horse's mouth here.
And.....I'm BACK in the game!
So, a few weeks ago I told you I was going to give the Duggars a break, and I chose to lay my weekly Duggar posts to rest. UNLESS any one of the following things happened:
1. Michelle got pregnant again.
2. Michelle got a new haircut.
3. The children started setting fire to things around the property.
4. Anna Duggar (Josh Duggar's new wife) got pregnant.
Well, apparently the sex ed lesson that Jim Bob gave to Josh on his wedding day in which he described sex as "kind of like Legos" somehow worked. Wow. Nice job, Josh. You did it, buddy!
So, Anna is pregnant and the Duggar's show on TLC, 18 Kids and Counting, is documenting her pregnancy. Looks like I'll have to add a new show to my DVR.
You can read all about the news straight from the horse's mouth here.
And.....I'm BACK in the game!
Monday, April 13, 2009
Tuesday's Tribute - To being beautiful, dammit.
In my recent quest to become more healthy, Summer's recent Blogversations video about a lady named Rachel Caplin and her book entitled, "I'm Beautiful, Dammit!" could not have come at a more perfect time.
I've already talked about my struggle with weight before having Kaylee and how I successfully changed my habits, became more active, and started eating healthier. I used the Weight Watchers method, only weighed myself once per week, as the program recommends for weigh ins, and I learned to have a totally different way of thinking about food.
I could enjoy food that wasn't made just of sugar and carbs. I could be full, satisfied, and healthy. I could have fun at the gym. I could feel good about myself, and I could go about it in a healthy way.
Then I had a baby.
Nothing on my body is the same or will ever be the same. Ever. Again. It's been a huge struggle for me.
I get sad that I no longer have the body I used to have.
Really, though - it's the same body, it's just been through a considerable amount of wear and tear. Unfortunately, so has my mind. I can deal with my body. I can buy clothes that fit. I can go to the gym. I can eat healthy food and smart portions, but what in tarnation can I do to get my mind to shift gears?
What can I do to start realizing that I am fine just the way I am? That my body is not ugly. That I should quit criticizing myself for not being an ideal size or shape.
For starters, I'm joining Summer in getting rid of the scale. It's moving to the garage where I no longer have to stare at it every morning. The garage floor is cold and has bits of gravel brought in by the car tires. And bugs. I hate bugs. So, I won't be going out to the garage to weigh myself.
Next, I've ordered myself this book.
I've recently discovered Rachel Caplin's blog "Oh my God, I'm a Mom" as well as her newest blog, "I'm Beatiful, Dammit," and I am just waiting for the delivery guy to knock on my door so I can crack the book open and dive right in. I know that reading a book won't change anything overnight, but Rachel really has a way with words, and she really makes me think. She helps me see things in a realistic perspective, and I think a lot of what she has to say will help me jumpstart my mind to thinking in a way that is not so harsh.
So this week, my Tuesday's Tribute is to Rachel, her book and her blogs. Please go check her out. You will love her honesty (hello - she talks about pooping on the delivery table without any shame), her humor, and her insightful thoughts about surving motherhood.
Unless you think you are a perfect mother who never struggles and never screws up, I know you'll be able to relate to so much of what she has to say. Here's how you can check out what Rachel has to say...
Click here to check out Rachel's book.
Click here to read Rachel's blog, "Oh my God I'm a Mom."
Click here to read her other blog, "I'm Beautiful, Dammit."
I've already talked about my struggle with weight before having Kaylee and how I successfully changed my habits, became more active, and started eating healthier. I used the Weight Watchers method, only weighed myself once per week, as the program recommends for weigh ins, and I learned to have a totally different way of thinking about food.
I could enjoy food that wasn't made just of sugar and carbs. I could be full, satisfied, and healthy. I could have fun at the gym. I could feel good about myself, and I could go about it in a healthy way.
Then I had a baby.
Nothing on my body is the same or will ever be the same. Ever. Again. It's been a huge struggle for me.
I get sad that I no longer have the body I used to have.
Really, though - it's the same body, it's just been through a considerable amount of wear and tear. Unfortunately, so has my mind. I can deal with my body. I can buy clothes that fit. I can go to the gym. I can eat healthy food and smart portions, but what in tarnation can I do to get my mind to shift gears?
What can I do to start realizing that I am fine just the way I am? That my body is not ugly. That I should quit criticizing myself for not being an ideal size or shape.
For starters, I'm joining Summer in getting rid of the scale. It's moving to the garage where I no longer have to stare at it every morning. The garage floor is cold and has bits of gravel brought in by the car tires. And bugs. I hate bugs. So, I won't be going out to the garage to weigh myself.
Next, I've ordered myself this book.
I've recently discovered Rachel Caplin's blog "Oh my God, I'm a Mom" as well as her newest blog, "I'm Beatiful, Dammit," and I am just waiting for the delivery guy to knock on my door so I can crack the book open and dive right in. I know that reading a book won't change anything overnight, but Rachel really has a way with words, and she really makes me think. She helps me see things in a realistic perspective, and I think a lot of what she has to say will help me jumpstart my mind to thinking in a way that is not so harsh.
So this week, my Tuesday's Tribute is to Rachel, her book and her blogs. Please go check her out. You will love her honesty (hello - she talks about pooping on the delivery table without any shame), her humor, and her insightful thoughts about surving motherhood.
Unless you think you are a perfect mother who never struggles and never screws up, I know you'll be able to relate to so much of what she has to say. Here's how you can check out what Rachel has to say...
Click here to check out Rachel's book.
Click here to read Rachel's blog, "Oh my God I'm a Mom."
Click here to read her other blog, "I'm Beautiful, Dammit."
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