Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Puppy Day Update
So we were back up at the law school the other day to pick up KC after his final final, anyway, Punkin kept wandering around saying "puppy?" It was precious. I hope she continues her love for dogs -- esp. next time she see's my parent's big ol' old english sheep dog!!!
Friday, December 16, 2011
Attempt to Document our Advent
I've done an awful job at documenting our advent calendar. Here is my attempt to catch up on what we've been up to!
1. Make cookies! Punkin LOVED helping me with forming the cookies -- I mean, cramming
the dough in her mouth. That's what Christmas is all about when you are wee, right?
5. We made more cookies and did some volunteer work.
6. National Botanical Gardens Train Exhibit! Punkin LOVES trains and it was so much fun to watch her see all the trains! She ran around shouting out "Choo Choo!"every time a train chugged by.
While at the Gardens, we decided to swing by the Native American Museum where Punkin tried to build an igloo.
7. Put up Christmas Decorations! Normally I'm a big Day After Thanksgiving decorator, but due to some health complications this was the first chance we got to decorate in full force.
8. Hot Chocolate with Friends! It was a lovely afternoon, but sadly I didn't get any photos. Punkin LOVED eating her cookie and stealing my hot chocolate!
9. Temple lights and hand bell choir concert. We started off this night getting some beloved Cafe Rio salads (Thanks for the new Falls Church location!) before driving up to Maryland in rush hour traffic to catch the "Bells at Mt. Vernon" concert at the LDS Washington DC Temple. Due to a packed house, we didn't get to sit together, but KC said that Punkin LOVED the concert. She carefully watched the bells, she sang along with the carols, and she even tried to conduct the ensemble before clapping wildly at the end. She also loved seeing all of the lights. We could tell by how often she yelled out "Lights!" After we left there, we met up with some friends for more hot chocolate (trend? maybe) before heading home for the night.
10. We drove out to Marshall, VA for a Christmas party with some of KC's coworkers. It was a long but lovely drive, but worth it for a delightful afternoon. (The evening was delightful too! We took dinner to a friend we don't see nearly often enough.)
TO COME!!!! (Well, this is a rough itinerary!)
Tonight- Church Christmas Party
17. Make Fudge and Candies!
18. Practice Christmas Morning/ holiday brunch with friends!
19. Christmas book!
20. Winter Wonderland at Launch Pad (National Children's Museum's current face.)
21. Cookie Decorating Party
22. Downtown Holiday Market
23. Christmas book!
24. Go to a HUGE Christmas Market and have a birthday party for Jesus!
1. Make cookies! Punkin LOVED helping me with forming the cookies -- I mean, cramming
the dough in her mouth. That's what Christmas is all about when you are wee, right?
Oh, and unrelated to the advent, we also had fun at puppy day at the law school.
2. Lights at National Harbor! So much (aside from trying to get parking the same night they were doing prep for a 5/15k race.) It was great seeing the magic light up Punkin's little eyes. We looked at the decorations. We watched the water show. We walked along the cold water. We played around "the awakening" statue. Then we topped it all off with some hot chocolate. It was Punkin's first hot chocolate and she LOVED it! (Can you blame her?)
3. We got to unwrap a Christmas book from our book stash!
4. We watched the Christmas Devotional broadcast from Salt Lake by the LDS church. 5. We made more cookies and did some volunteer work.
6. National Botanical Gardens Train Exhibit! Punkin LOVES trains and it was so much fun to watch her see all the trains! She ran around shouting out "Choo Choo!"every time a train chugged by.
7. Put up Christmas Decorations! Normally I'm a big Day After Thanksgiving decorator, but due to some health complications this was the first chance we got to decorate in full force.
8. Hot Chocolate with Friends! It was a lovely afternoon, but sadly I didn't get any photos. Punkin LOVED eating her cookie and stealing my hot chocolate!
9. Temple lights and hand bell choir concert. We started off this night getting some beloved Cafe Rio salads (Thanks for the new Falls Church location!) before driving up to Maryland in rush hour traffic to catch the "Bells at Mt. Vernon" concert at the LDS Washington DC Temple. Due to a packed house, we didn't get to sit together, but KC said that Punkin LOVED the concert. She carefully watched the bells, she sang along with the carols, and she even tried to conduct the ensemble before clapping wildly at the end. She also loved seeing all of the lights. We could tell by how often she yelled out "Lights!" After we left there, we met up with some friends for more hot chocolate (trend? maybe) before heading home for the night.
10. We drove out to Marshall, VA for a Christmas party with some of KC's coworkers. It was a long but lovely drive, but worth it for a delightful afternoon. (The evening was delightful too! We took dinner to a friend we don't see nearly often enough.)
11. Trace Punkin's hands for a family tradition! (We do fabric cut outs of the hands every year to give to the Grandmas. I did it every year as a kid, now it is Punkin's turn!)
12. National Tree with friends! As usual, it was cold, but I love any excuse to go downtown and act like a tourist. :) Oh, and Santa has a workshop down there. Punkin was too afraid to go near him alone, so I got to be in the photo too!
13. Grinch from the Christmas Book pile! We love opening up presents early - even if they are the same every year, right? ;)
14. Make salt dough ornaments! Punkin only made the mistake of trying to eat the dough once!
15. This was kind of lame on the advent activities, but we watched Polar Express and dipped candy canes in white chocolate to use to make peppermint hot chocolate. I have had at least 2 mugs of peppermint hot chocolate since then.... :) (There is wax paper under the candy canes. Do not fear, I didn't put them on the counter.)
16. Union Station Train Display! Okay, this one is something I probably won't go out of my way to do again, but it was fun because Punkin stood for about a half hour just watching the trains. Then, to entertain Mom a little, we went by the National Postal Museum - which is something I'd recommend for the 3-5 crowed. It is small, but there are horses, trucks, trains, planes, etc. Everything a pre-schooler loves minus the crowds of the other Smithsonians.
Tonight- Church Christmas Party
17. Make Fudge and Candies!
18. Practice Christmas Morning/ holiday brunch with friends!
19. Christmas book!
20. Winter Wonderland at Launch Pad (National Children's Museum's current face.)
21. Cookie Decorating Party
22. Downtown Holiday Market
23. Christmas book!
24. Go to a HUGE Christmas Market and have a birthday party for Jesus!
Book 31 - Saving Ceecee Honeycutt
Saving Ceecee Honeycutt - Beth Hoffman
In general I enjoyed this book. I thought some of the personal connections were a little over emphasized. I also thought the time line was a little far fetched. Otherwise, this was a lovely read. I loved being able to breath in Savannah. The characters were delightful. I loved the history and the seeing the evolution of the characters. I would definately reccomend this if someone is looking for a quick read.
In general I enjoyed this book. I thought some of the personal connections were a little over emphasized. I also thought the time line was a little far fetched. Otherwise, this was a lovely read. I loved being able to breath in Savannah. The characters were delightful. I loved the history and the seeing the evolution of the characters. I would definately reccomend this if someone is looking for a quick read.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Friday Morning Rant
I live in an area that is high in immigrants. I guess that happens in pseudo urban areas. I love the diversity, but what I don't love is their driving. I have concluded that driving around here wouldn't be so bad if 2 things happened. 1. Everyone drove like they went to drivers ed here in America. 2. If the rich didn't drive recklessly because they feel that the harm that may come to their car is a disposable expense if they want to get somewhere quickly. Okay, and as adamant as I am about #2, we are going to focus on the bigger problem, the immigrant drivers.
Guess what job a lot of the immigrants have? Oh yeah, if you've ever been in one, you know that I'm going to say- cab driver. (Yep, you might see where I'm going with this now.) I have all sorts of issues with how cab drivers drive, but I have a growing concern with a particular behaviour that I need to bring up. I wish I could find a way that would get their driving privileges revoked because I feel that it is that stupid and dangerous. The situation I am about to discuss has happened to me at least 4 times over the course of the last month and it has to stop.
Imagine this, you are at a light waiting to turn left. The light might be red, it might be green, apparently that doesn't matter in this scenario. (Problem #1.) You are the first car in line and are waiting for your turn to go when a cab driver pulls up behind you. Now, I have only seen this happen if they are car #2 or #3 in the line up, but who knows, it could be anywhere for all I know. Then, out of nowhere, when it isn't clear, or their turn (remember, the light could even be red at a blind intersection- I have seen this exact situation) and they turn left, driving in the oncoming traffic lanes to get around you and into the intersection - often forcing the oncoming and/or cross traffic to slam on their breaks to avoid hitting the wayward cab. I am fed up with this behaviour. I wish there was something I could do about it. It happened to me this morning and you know what they did 200ft after the intersection? They parked and got out. Seriously you couldn't wait the extra 15 second to turn safely AFTER me to go park?
Anyway, I needed to get that out. I just keep hoping that there will be a cop to nab these guys doing this. I feel less safe on the roads. We have driving rules for a reason. If you want to drive in our country, abide by those rules! Argh.
Guess what job a lot of the immigrants have? Oh yeah, if you've ever been in one, you know that I'm going to say- cab driver. (Yep, you might see where I'm going with this now.) I have all sorts of issues with how cab drivers drive, but I have a growing concern with a particular behaviour that I need to bring up. I wish I could find a way that would get their driving privileges revoked because I feel that it is that stupid and dangerous. The situation I am about to discuss has happened to me at least 4 times over the course of the last month and it has to stop.
Imagine this, you are at a light waiting to turn left. The light might be red, it might be green, apparently that doesn't matter in this scenario. (Problem #1.) You are the first car in line and are waiting for your turn to go when a cab driver pulls up behind you. Now, I have only seen this happen if they are car #2 or #3 in the line up, but who knows, it could be anywhere for all I know. Then, out of nowhere, when it isn't clear, or their turn (remember, the light could even be red at a blind intersection- I have seen this exact situation) and they turn left, driving in the oncoming traffic lanes to get around you and into the intersection - often forcing the oncoming and/or cross traffic to slam on their breaks to avoid hitting the wayward cab. I am fed up with this behaviour. I wish there was something I could do about it. It happened to me this morning and you know what they did 200ft after the intersection? They parked and got out. Seriously you couldn't wait the extra 15 second to turn safely AFTER me to go park?
Anyway, I needed to get that out. I just keep hoping that there will be a cop to nab these guys doing this. I feel less safe on the roads. We have driving rules for a reason. If you want to drive in our country, abide by those rules! Argh.
Monday, December 5, 2011
Book 30 - Plain and Simple: A Woman's Journey to the Amish
Plain and Simple: A Woman's Journey to the Amish - Sue Bender
I found this book interesting. It isn't one that I would have picked myself, but that is the beauty of a book club, right? Most of the book I really enjoyed reading. I loved reading about her interactions with the Amish. I loved learning about how different groups of the Amish celebrate their culture and traditions differently (because, come on, we are all different and do things differently. It is refreshing to see a group like the Amish that we often pigeon hole into a single mold as colorful individuals doing what is best for them and their families within the construct that they choose to raise their families.)
I could have done without the end. Her own reflections, well, I found them pointless and self serving. They were better suited for a journal than a book you want to share with others. This wasn't marketed as a self help book from the point of view from a woman going inside and living with Amish. It was marketed more as an anthropological study, and for that, I appreciated the book. Fortunately it was a quick read, made quicker by my skimming over the last sections where the author pontificates on her personal growth and reflections.
I found this book interesting. It isn't one that I would have picked myself, but that is the beauty of a book club, right? Most of the book I really enjoyed reading. I loved reading about her interactions with the Amish. I loved learning about how different groups of the Amish celebrate their culture and traditions differently (because, come on, we are all different and do things differently. It is refreshing to see a group like the Amish that we often pigeon hole into a single mold as colorful individuals doing what is best for them and their families within the construct that they choose to raise their families.)
I could have done without the end. Her own reflections, well, I found them pointless and self serving. They were better suited for a journal than a book you want to share with others. This wasn't marketed as a self help book from the point of view from a woman going inside and living with Amish. It was marketed more as an anthropological study, and for that, I appreciated the book. Fortunately it was a quick read, made quicker by my skimming over the last sections where the author pontificates on her personal growth and reflections.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Sorry
Sorry I've been MIA all month. We had a computer shortage, and then a very roller coaster of a month. I will hopefully get back on the blogging horse here soon.
I am planning all sorts of fun for December with an activity advent. SO, if you live locally, I'd love to have you join in with us and our local outings or toddler friendly arts and crafts projects. I don't have my list finalized yet, but I'll post it once I do if you are interested. We are starting off tomorrow simply by making treats for a cookie swap and reading one of our books from the Christmas stash. (EEEEP! I know December starts in a few hours, but luckily my toddler won't know the difference that I'm a little behind on my planning. Sadly Christmas decorating and planning had to get pushed back from the traditional Thanksgiving weekend this year, but I'm working hard to get us back on track.)
Check back soon, I'll work on getting my act together, I promise.
I am planning all sorts of fun for December with an activity advent. SO, if you live locally, I'd love to have you join in with us and our local outings or toddler friendly arts and crafts projects. I don't have my list finalized yet, but I'll post it once I do if you are interested. We are starting off tomorrow simply by making treats for a cookie swap and reading one of our books from the Christmas stash. (EEEEP! I know December starts in a few hours, but luckily my toddler won't know the difference that I'm a little behind on my planning. Sadly Christmas decorating and planning had to get pushed back from the traditional Thanksgiving weekend this year, but I'm working hard to get us back on track.)
Check back soon, I'll work on getting my act together, I promise.
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Monday, October 31, 2011
Book 29 - The Time Travler's Wife
Book 29 - The Time Travler's Wife - audry niffenegger
What an interesting book to read right now as we are waiting for things in our own lives here in our family. (we aren't just waiting, but there is always an element of waiting in life. Patience, I believe, is what they call it, and I don't have a lot of it. ) Anyway, the book. In general I enjoyed it. Too long in some parts, too short in others. For how overly detailed most of the book turned out to be, I found the resolution to be rather thin. I also, personally, could have done without some of the "color," but all in all, it was a great read. I would recommend this book to others, but not all others. Like if you are a friend who won't watch a PG 13 movie, don't read this.
*disclaimer- I had seen the movie when it came out a few years back, but it had been long enough that, aside from one key element, it was a fresh story to me.
What an interesting book to read right now as we are waiting for things in our own lives here in our family. (we aren't just waiting, but there is always an element of waiting in life. Patience, I believe, is what they call it, and I don't have a lot of it. ) Anyway, the book. In general I enjoyed it. Too long in some parts, too short in others. For how overly detailed most of the book turned out to be, I found the resolution to be rather thin. I also, personally, could have done without some of the "color," but all in all, it was a great read. I would recommend this book to others, but not all others. Like if you are a friend who won't watch a PG 13 movie, don't read this.
*disclaimer- I had seen the movie when it came out a few years back, but it had been long enough that, aside from one key element, it was a fresh story to me.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Fun Treat!
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Stuff I've Been Doing 2
Okay, I knew I should have posted 10 things on my last post. I forgot to add this Martha inspired project....
Vintage lace looking trivets! I think they are totally funky cool.
Now on to making Halloween decor. Well that and some projects for a friend's baby shower coming up. :)
Vintage lace looking trivets! I think they are totally funky cool.
Now on to making Halloween decor. Well that and some projects for a friend's baby shower coming up. :)
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Stuff I've Been Doing
1. Gratitude Journal. It has been a great aid to help change my perspective amidst a gloomy, grey September. I made one on Paper Coterie (there was a deal, all I had to do was pay for shipping.) I have been pseudo scrapbooking each page. I have been loving the process.
2. This magnetic board. That I made after seeing this similar product on pintrest.
See, we don't let Punkin in our kitchen and I wanted to let her play with magnets. So, I made this cute little magnet board so I can let her play with magnets in her room. We have had a lot of fun with it. (I only let her play with really big magnets under supervision, so no cute hand made ones at this point.)
3. Also found on pintrest, I made my first of these to gather my plastic bags. Well, kind of. I didn't bother to make mine all cute. All the same, I'm glad to have a way to organize all of my bags that I use as small trash can liners. Maybe some day I'll make them all cute to match and keep in their corresponding room.
4. I got on a new hair clip kick. (The first time since my "craft-er-noon" buddy moved out to Utah.) I made these in all sorts of color combinations. I've decided that I like the more solid color fabric on top. You live, you learn. My kid officially has more hair clips than she could wear in a month. Alas, I will keep on making them. She'll be the best accessorized little girl around. (Because I already have a few other clips on the to do list!!!)
5. I finally got my girl's hair into full pig tails. I love them.
7. I have fallen in love with these blondies. (I already have a cake mix caramel brownie recipe so it is nice to add a little blondie action into my cake mix arsenal.)
8. So, I feel in love with the cover with the latest Martha Stewart Living. It is a braised short rib "pie" that was baked with thinly sliced potatoes on top. Well, there were a lot of things about the recipe that weren't going to work for me. A. I couldn't find short ribs at my little teeny tiny grocery meat department. B. I didn't want to make it with Guinness as her recipe calls. C. I didn't want to leave my oven on all day to braise it in the oven. All that said, I made my own fruity-rosemary braised steak version. It was delightful. KC says it might just be one of the best meals that I've ever made. It was more work than I normally put in for a week night meal, but you better believe that it will make an appearance on our meal planning a few more times while the weather is cold!
I don't think it is as cute as Martha's, but since I'm only still in training, I figure it turned out pretty fancy.
9. Bike rides! I love putting Punkin in the coup and riding through the neighborhoods and nature trails around town. I think she loves it just as much as I do. (Wind in her face, snacks in hand, who wouldn't be happy?)
Can you tell we've been stuck inside all month with bad weather and bad health? (Aside from my bike rides that is...) Well that and I'm trying to be better about documenting my personal activities.
2. This magnetic board. That I made after seeing this similar product on pintrest.
3. Also found on pintrest, I made my first of these to gather my plastic bags. Well, kind of. I didn't bother to make mine all cute. All the same, I'm glad to have a way to organize all of my bags that I use as small trash can liners. Maybe some day I'll make them all cute to match and keep in their corresponding room.
4. I got on a new hair clip kick. (The first time since my "craft-er-noon" buddy moved out to Utah.) I made these in all sorts of color combinations. I've decided that I like the more solid color fabric on top. You live, you learn. My kid officially has more hair clips than she could wear in a month. Alas, I will keep on making them. She'll be the best accessorized little girl around. (Because I already have a few other clips on the to do list!!!)
5. I finally got my girl's hair into full pig tails. I love them.
6. I have also been having fun in the kitchen. I made this Cajun Chicken Pasta from Pioneer Woman. We loved it. (Maybe even more as left overs since I didn't do well at letting the sauce thicken....)
7. I have fallen in love with these blondies. (I already have a cake mix caramel brownie recipe so it is nice to add a little blondie action into my cake mix arsenal.)
8. So, I feel in love with the cover with the latest Martha Stewart Living. It is a braised short rib "pie" that was baked with thinly sliced potatoes on top. Well, there were a lot of things about the recipe that weren't going to work for me. A. I couldn't find short ribs at my little teeny tiny grocery meat department. B. I didn't want to make it with Guinness as her recipe calls. C. I didn't want to leave my oven on all day to braise it in the oven. All that said, I made my own fruity-rosemary braised steak version. It was delightful. KC says it might just be one of the best meals that I've ever made. It was more work than I normally put in for a week night meal, but you better believe that it will make an appearance on our meal planning a few more times while the weather is cold!
9. Bike rides! I love putting Punkin in the coup and riding through the neighborhoods and nature trails around town. I think she loves it just as much as I do. (Wind in her face, snacks in hand, who wouldn't be happy?)
Can you tell we've been stuck inside all month with bad weather and bad health? (Aside from my bike rides that is...) Well that and I'm trying to be better about documenting my personal activities.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Choose the one you love, then love your choice
We often hear this quote in context of marriage, but I recently realized that it can apply more widely in our lives.
It isn't worth playing the "what if" game. It just wastes time and energy.
Embrace your decisions, even if you don't feel like you fit the mould. Create your own new mould and make it yours. Love your choice and make it an awesome situation.
It isn't worth playing the "what if" game. It just wastes time and energy.
Embrace your decisions, even if you don't feel like you fit the mould. Create your own new mould and make it yours. Love your choice and make it an awesome situation.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Toddler time
So I am not all that great at coming up with appropriate activities to do with my nearly 18 month old. I read all these "toddler activity" books and blogs an I have more misses than hits. I try not to get down about it because she is only 17 months old. A lot of days I get frustrated and think "why don't you just play with your toys!" But then I have to remember that she isn't one of those kids with a favorite toy. She also gets just as bored as I do with our small apartment.
Well anyway, lamenting aside, here is my story. One of the toddler acivities that comes up often is to teach them to string things on yarn. Armed with 2 pieces of yarn and a cup of dried rotini noodles, we set out to the balcony for stringing practice. If I could figure out how to upload photos from my phone I would post the photo that shows her yarn and mine, and I would ask you to guess which was hers, but alas. I was SO WRONG at thinking she was ready for rotini necklaces.
Do not fear, the activity wasn't a total bust. She loved sorting through the noodles and scattering them and then picking them back up. Some day she will be interested in my activities, until then I just need to keep trying and love her learning to explore her world. (unless that includes her trying to put her toddler chair on top of the couch again to sit down. I won't let that sort of exploration continue, for obvious reasons.)
Well anyway, lamenting aside, here is my story. One of the toddler acivities that comes up often is to teach them to string things on yarn. Armed with 2 pieces of yarn and a cup of dried rotini noodles, we set out to the balcony for stringing practice. If I could figure out how to upload photos from my phone I would post the photo that shows her yarn and mine, and I would ask you to guess which was hers, but alas. I was SO WRONG at thinking she was ready for rotini necklaces.
Do not fear, the activity wasn't a total bust. She loved sorting through the noodles and scattering them and then picking them back up. Some day she will be interested in my activities, until then I just need to keep trying and love her learning to explore her world. (unless that includes her trying to put her toddler chair on top of the couch again to sit down. I won't let that sort of exploration continue, for obvious reasons.)
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Gustav Died!
My computer died. This blog will, therefore, be even sparser. And just when I was going to start my new effort to share my creations. Hopefully we can get this fixed soon. I still can post from my phone, but it isn't the same.
Book 27 - The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society - Mary Ann Shaffer
It took me a few tries to actually get into this book, (the letter format is hard to ease into) but book club pushed me to actually read the book. I really enjoyed this book, though I got mad when they got away from the letter format at the end of the book. It was nice to see a different part of the history of WWII there by seeing it from life there on the channel islands.
I feel like everyone has already read this book and I'm late to the game so that is all that I will say about that.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Remembering
Here in town, there are flags on the overpasses and on the buildings. Not to mention, the flood of media discussing, remembering. Stories of the survivors, the families, and those who were lost are everywhere. I personally got chills when I read this account. Ever since I moved here, I can't help but give an extra moment of pause for the fire trucks and the ambulances, knowing that those on board could have very well been some of those who were at the scene that day. I also always pause when I see the remembrance mural that a local business painted on the side of their building.
Unlike my father in law, I wasn't in Virginia that day. (He was here on business and had to drive back home - 3 days with 4 other people in a Taurus!) For me, it was my very first week of college. Let me tell you, what a sobering way to start a new phase of life.
I had been on campus for a few weeks, but classes were just starting to get underway. There were girls in my hall from all over the country, even though I attended a state university. Just before 8am, as a new freshman trying to find her way around campus, I headed off to my calculus class with my roommate who had a class in the same building. We both had a break after that class, and as typical college students, we headed back to our dorm room and firmly sat ourselves down at our computers. Almost immediately, SG asked me to turn on the TV. I asked her why, she said she didn't know. I asked her what channel, she answered, "apparently any." There had been a message on her computer from a friend in Arizona, and that is all that it said. I turned on the TV and I sat there in shock, telling her that she had to come see this. We sat together on our futon and watched the 2nd tower fall. We were glued. Slowly, people from our hallway that didn't have TVs, trickled into our room. We sat and watched, stunned, together.
We could hear someone bawling down the hall. She had a loved one that worked in the WTC. She ended up going back home and taking a leave for that semester. We didn't expect this to happen to students at Michigan, but I also quickly came to learn that she wasn't the only one.
Some random opportunist called in a bomb threat to the College of LSA. Those classes were canceled because, given the events of the day, the university wasn't going to take any chances. My next class wasn't in LSA, it was in the college of engineering, so unsure of what to do, I met up with a friend and we hopped the bus to get to class.
On the bus, we ran into another friend. He was from Grand Blanc, MI. He had been in class all morning, he hadn't heard anything. Apparently he'd had a physics professor come into class and say, "If you have any family or friends who work at the Pentagon or the WTC, please leave." About 15 people got up and left the room. That is all he heard, but when the professor went on to talk about Newton, he figured it was no big deal. Then, as he left class, there was someone who spit on him. (He was of Pakistani descent.) It took me a long time to work through that fact. The raw hate and racism was starting before we even knew who really was responsible.
I don't even remember this friend's name. I had to tell him why his professor dismissed those students. I had to tell him why he had been treated so poorly. It pained me to do so. For his whole life, if people asked him where he was on 9/11, I would be part of his story.
Class was pretty much a therapy session, with the GSI (Graduate Student Instructor, Michigan is took good for TA's apparently.) After that, with classes now canceled campus wide, it felt like an eerie ghost town. Not knowing what else to do, I took off with some friends to find a Red Cross to donate blood. Apparently there is one near campus, but that isn't the one we had been directed to. We walked something like 6 miles to get to the Red Cross, and they had no more room or time slots for that day. At least it gave us something to do, even if it ended up being a bust. My day ended with my parents coming into town and taking me out to dinner. I think they were trying to calm me down. I don't remember if it worked or not. There are benefits of going to college only an hour away from home.
Aside from some friends who had moved to NYC for college, I knew no one who had been even in NYC or Washington, much less directly impacted by the events of that day, but it shook me pretty hard. My husband might say because I'm just a softie in general, maybe so, but like many Americans, I couldn't figure out what all of this meant. I didn't know what the ramifications were going to be, and if this was just the beginning of attacks on our soil. I was scared. I had never heard of Osama bin Laden, but he was all the sudden vaulted to the top of the America's Most Wanted list. I ended up going and finding some arm chair diplomat type book to help me understand. That's when I started to realize how messed up our world really is.
10 years later, the picture is clearer, but not necessarily any better. There is so much terror in our airports that we can't get on board now with out taking off infant socks that have a shoe looking design on them and getting full body scans. To fly to the US from abroad, well you have to get a full on interview just to get into the boarding area. Bin Laden has been killed, but how many others have as well? Afghanistan isn't in any better shape than it was, and Pakistan might just been in worse shape. (I'll admit, my mommy job has taken much time away from my research into world news and politics.)
I devoted much of my graduate degree to studying counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency. I guess that is how I felt like I could do something about the world that I came to as I became an adult. What good has it done? Well, that is a different discussion for a different day.
To all of those who experienced loss, trial, or anything else as a result of 9/11, my heart goes out to you. I know that I'll never forget the day that the USA changed for me and my generation. Things will get better. We are still working on overcoming this as a nation, and I know that we will succeed.
Go Blue!
He had a chance to dress her, as I was at yoga class during the morning routine. He didn't, and that was fine. But if I'm dressing her on game days, you better believe that I'm going to dress her has a wolverine.
Go Blue!
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Waterlogged.
Okay, so we aren't technically waterlogged, but it has been raining so much lately, I think my spirit is waterlogged. We haven't been able to play at the playground or go out for walks. It definitely makes me stir crazy!!! Though, maybe this was a good thing because it got me thinking about how we are going to survive the winter. I think we have to go back to theme weeks. So, if you have any theme week ideas, please let me know! We are going to try get some books for each theme and maybe a field trip if possible. Here are some of the things I've been thinking about.
Pumpkins (Field trip to the pumpkin patch!)
Trees (Field trip to the National Arboretum)
Balls (Field trip to a TC Williams football game!)
Animals ( Field trip to the natural history museum or the zoo)
Pumpkins (Field trip to the pumpkin patch!)
Trees (Field trip to the National Arboretum)
Balls (Field trip to a TC Williams football game!)
Animals ( Field trip to the natural history museum or the zoo)
Book 26 - Happy Birthday, Molly
Happy Birthday, Molly - Valerie Tripp
Yep, back to the American Girl books. See, my little princess now has her preference for books. I get very bored reading the same books over and over 10 billion times a day. So, last time we were at the library when she picked up this American Girl book, I took it as a sign to grab it and check it out before there was a time to throw it in the bin of board books.
My issue with this book is that it ended before I wanted it to end. I love reading about WWII era lifestyle so I loved reading this. Who knows, maybe next time we hit up the library I'll be picking up some of the other Molly books!
Yep, back to the American Girl books. See, my little princess now has her preference for books. I get very bored reading the same books over and over 10 billion times a day. So, last time we were at the library when she picked up this American Girl book, I took it as a sign to grab it and check it out before there was a time to throw it in the bin of board books.
My issue with this book is that it ended before I wanted it to end. I love reading about WWII era lifestyle so I loved reading this. Who knows, maybe next time we hit up the library I'll be picking up some of the other Molly books!
Friday, September 2, 2011
Book 25 - Kabul Beauty School
Kabul Beauty School - Deborah Rodriguez
This book was actually a re-read for me. I selected this book for book club for next month. It is a book that I've wanted to discuss with a group for a while, so I was glad to re-read it. (It has been a few years.) I love the inside look at Kabul. I love seeing the work that people do. I have so many things to say about it, but I can't articulate it right now. I think this is an important book because it shows what real Kabul is like and the real issues that go on. It makes me thankful for the fact that I am a woman in the west, and not in Afghanistan.
This book was actually a re-read for me. I selected this book for book club for next month. It is a book that I've wanted to discuss with a group for a while, so I was glad to re-read it. (It has been a few years.) I love the inside look at Kabul. I love seeing the work that people do. I have so many things to say about it, but I can't articulate it right now. I think this is an important book because it shows what real Kabul is like and the real issues that go on. It makes me thankful for the fact that I am a woman in the west, and not in Afghanistan.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Stuff We Do
As the summer is winding down and I'm working on trying to figure out what I'm going to be doing with my little Punkin all fall and winter. I have a tentative schedule worked out listed with some fun activities for us, but I figured it might help me out to list some of the things that we do do.
Stuff we do sometimes:
National Building Museum
Smithsonian Museums
US Botanical Gardens
Explore the National Monuments
"Dollar" Movies (when my kid is older.)
The Zoo! (Love that the zoo here is free!)
Sporting Events
Oxon Hill Farm
Stuff we do regularly:
Barnes and Noble Story time
Story time at the Library
Play area at the mall
Nature Walks on the many trails around town
Play at the park
Explore the local forts
Institute class
music makers (well this has been a sometimes that I am hoping to make a regular thing)
Summer only activities:
Swimming at the pool
Cheep summer movie programs (if only my kid were a little older!)
Spray grounds
Stuff I've never done but our on our list:
Frying Pan Farm
Clemyjontri Park
Stuff we do sometimes:
National Building Museum
Smithsonian Museums
US Botanical Gardens
Explore the National Monuments
"Dollar" Movies (when my kid is older.)
The Zoo! (Love that the zoo here is free!)
Sporting Events
Oxon Hill Farm
Stuff we do regularly:
Barnes and Noble Story time
Story time at the Library
Play area at the mall
Nature Walks on the many trails around town
Play at the park
Explore the local forts
Institute class
music makers (well this has been a sometimes that I am hoping to make a regular thing)
Summer only activities:
Swimming at the pool
Cheep summer movie programs (if only my kid were a little older!)
Spray grounds
Stuff I've never done but our on our list:
Frying Pan Farm
Clemyjontri Park
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Book 24- The Glass Castle
The Glass Castle - Jeannette Walls
This book is the companion book to the Half Broke Horses book I wrote about as book 23. (The Glass Castle is the author's biography where as Half Broke Horses is her retelling of her Grandmother's life.)
I enjoyed seeing the next chapter in the family's history. One of my big complaints about books is always wondering what happened to the characters next, this was nice because it filled in that gap for me. And let me tell you, it wasn't all happily ever after.
This book really brought to light for me some of the poverty situations in America. It made me worried for children who have parents who ground themselves in their dreams without a spec of reality or realistic expectations for themselves or for their family roles and responsibilities. It made me feel like I'm doing okay as a parent. In general, it left me unsettled and questioning how people can bear to choose to live life like that (Yes, I know that not all people choose to live like that, but in many instances, Jeannette's parents did choose this lifestyle.) It made me thankful that Jeannette and most of her siblings made it out in such a way that they are contributors to society and not repeating their parents mistakes.
Anyway, I have lots to say about this book, but I'm not doing well at condensing it right now. It is a good read, so is Half Broke Horses. It just leaves me with a lot of questions and commentary. I guess that is what good books are supposed to do.
This book is the companion book to the Half Broke Horses book I wrote about as book 23. (The Glass Castle is the author's biography where as Half Broke Horses is her retelling of her Grandmother's life.)
I enjoyed seeing the next chapter in the family's history. One of my big complaints about books is always wondering what happened to the characters next, this was nice because it filled in that gap for me. And let me tell you, it wasn't all happily ever after.
This book really brought to light for me some of the poverty situations in America. It made me worried for children who have parents who ground themselves in their dreams without a spec of reality or realistic expectations for themselves or for their family roles and responsibilities. It made me feel like I'm doing okay as a parent. In general, it left me unsettled and questioning how people can bear to choose to live life like that (Yes, I know that not all people choose to live like that, but in many instances, Jeannette's parents did choose this lifestyle.) It made me thankful that Jeannette and most of her siblings made it out in such a way that they are contributors to society and not repeating their parents mistakes.
Anyway, I have lots to say about this book, but I'm not doing well at condensing it right now. It is a good read, so is Half Broke Horses. It just leaves me with a lot of questions and commentary. I guess that is what good books are supposed to do.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Book 23 - Half Broke Horses
Half Broke Horses - Jeanette Walls
Remember how I committed to not listening to books on tape after our vacation book? Ha. Well, sometimes you break commitments when it comes time for book club and the only copy of the book you can get your hands on is the audio recording. I am torn weather or not this was the preferred way to experience this book. There was a lot of personality in the book, so it was nice to have the author be the one to share her inflection with you via her recording.
In general, I appreciated this book for the slice of history that it shared. It was an era and a region/lifestyle with which I didn't have much experience. The author did a wonderful job sharing the history of her family. It was fascinating. Also, there is something very Romantic about the way the west is portrayed. That was fun to hear.
In specific, meh. I am reading the prequel (which, is an actual biography where as this book is true life fiction) because during book club everyone was talking about both books where I had only read one of them. I hate being left out of the loop! I do feel for the characters. It makes me thankful for my family and the circumstances in which I was raised and the people that my parents are. I probably wouldn't have picked up this book on my own, but once I clue you in to how I am selecting books these days, well, you might lose faith in my book selections.
Okay, okay, I'll tell you now. I have a stack of books on my table in the "to read" pile all of which were selected by my little princess. What happens is that we wander the stacks, I look for books I want to read. She just grabs a close one off the shelf to carry around with her. Once she gets tired of the carrying that specific book around, I take a gander at the back. If it doesn't seem completely unappealing then I keep it and check it out; otherwise I just place it on the re-shelf rack. Repeat multiple times until I let her go and climb the chairs and page through the board books in the kids area. So, if there are some weird books up here in the future, don't blame me for picking the weird ones! It's all Punkin's fault!
Remember how I committed to not listening to books on tape after our vacation book? Ha. Well, sometimes you break commitments when it comes time for book club and the only copy of the book you can get your hands on is the audio recording. I am torn weather or not this was the preferred way to experience this book. There was a lot of personality in the book, so it was nice to have the author be the one to share her inflection with you via her recording.
In general, I appreciated this book for the slice of history that it shared. It was an era and a region/lifestyle with which I didn't have much experience. The author did a wonderful job sharing the history of her family. It was fascinating. Also, there is something very Romantic about the way the west is portrayed. That was fun to hear.
In specific, meh. I am reading the prequel (which, is an actual biography where as this book is true life fiction) because during book club everyone was talking about both books where I had only read one of them. I hate being left out of the loop! I do feel for the characters. It makes me thankful for my family and the circumstances in which I was raised and the people that my parents are. I probably wouldn't have picked up this book on my own, but once I clue you in to how I am selecting books these days, well, you might lose faith in my book selections.
Okay, okay, I'll tell you now. I have a stack of books on my table in the "to read" pile all of which were selected by my little princess. What happens is that we wander the stacks, I look for books I want to read. She just grabs a close one off the shelf to carry around with her. Once she gets tired of the carrying that specific book around, I take a gander at the back. If it doesn't seem completely unappealing then I keep it and check it out; otherwise I just place it on the re-shelf rack. Repeat multiple times until I let her go and climb the chairs and page through the board books in the kids area. So, if there are some weird books up here in the future, don't blame me for picking the weird ones! It's all Punkin's fault!
Friday, August 19, 2011
I Love Drawbridges!
Thursday, August 18, 2011
My Fall Bucket List
I've been working on planning lately. After having some friends talk about their fall bucket lists, I figured I'd publish mine here. We'll see what we ACTUALLY do, but if you are interested in any of these activities, please let me know and we can go together! Oh, and if you know of anything else going on, please let me know! We love fun adventures!
9/15 Chinese Puppet Show http://www.kennedy-center.org/programs/festivals/11-12/china/events.cfm?genre=FFS
9/24 National Book Festival or the Dulles Plane Pull
10/1 Art on the Avenue in Del Ray
10/8 Art Safari at the Torpedo Factory http://www.torpedofactory.org/calendar_of_events_.htm
10/22 Pumpkin Picking and Carving
12/3 Ornament Decorating http://apps.alexandriava.gov/Calendar/Detail.aspx?si=1605
In general
Toddlers at the Tavern http://apps.alexandriava.gov/Calendar/Detail.aspx?si=1538
LOTS of College Football
National Arboretum
US Botanical Gardens
* If I come up with more activities, I will just update this post.
9/15 Chinese Puppet Show http://www.kennedy-center.org/programs/festivals/11-12/china/events.cfm?genre=FFS
9/24 National Book Festival or the Dulles Plane Pull
10/1 Art on the Avenue in Del Ray
10/8 Art Safari at the Torpedo Factory http://www.torpedofactory.org/calendar_of_events_.htm
10/22 Pumpkin Picking and Carving
12/3 Ornament Decorating http://apps.alexandriava.gov/Calendar/Detail.aspx?si=1605
In general
Toddlers at the Tavern http://apps.alexandriava.gov/Calendar/Detail.aspx?si=1538
LOTS of College Football
National Arboretum
US Botanical Gardens
* If I come up with more activities, I will just update this post.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
I loved my dinner last night
I loved it so much, I thought I'd share. I think I'm personally slipping back into a vegetarian phase. It happens every now and again, and frankly I think it is 1. cleansing and 2. a nice variety in my diet. The problem with this? My family. Punkin isn't great with proteins.Well, non-dairy proteins at least. So we have to continue offering her a variety of proteins to see which ones she'll actually consume. KC is also very much a meat and potatoes kind of guy. I have to be creative or willing to make two dinners.
Last night, both dinners I made were super simple, so it was fine to just make two. For KC and Punkin they had bbq chicken (pan cooked and then just with some bbq sauce poured on top) and baked potatoes. For me, well I made these fantastic stuffed zucchini boats. I did feel the need to serve these with some marinara sauce, but otherwise, I was in a veggie lovin heaven. So, if you have some extra zucchini that you need use, try these out. They are delicious
Last night, both dinners I made were super simple, so it was fine to just make two. For KC and Punkin they had bbq chicken (pan cooked and then just with some bbq sauce poured on top) and baked potatoes. For me, well I made these fantastic stuffed zucchini boats. I did feel the need to serve these with some marinara sauce, but otherwise, I was in a veggie lovin heaven. So, if you have some extra zucchini that you need use, try these out. They are delicious
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Running
For nearly 15 years, I have identified myself as a runner. I ran track and cross country in middle school. I trained with the cross team (but didn't race) and I ran track all through high school. I loved running with friends all through college. Running was my relief during grad school.
I was running yesterday and I HATED it. How could I hate running so much when I am a runner? Is it the nasty weather we are having right now? Is it the fact that I'm out of running shape? Is it the fact that running with the stroller and that sucks (anyone who has run with a stroller will agree with me on that one.) Is it the fact that I need new running shoes? I don't know. But I HATED running. It broke my heart. Now I don't know if I WANT to buy new running shoes and try again.
Is there hope for me? Or do I need to find a new outlet?
I was running yesterday and I HATED it. How could I hate running so much when I am a runner? Is it the nasty weather we are having right now? Is it the fact that I'm out of running shape? Is it the fact that running with the stroller and that sucks (anyone who has run with a stroller will agree with me on that one.) Is it the fact that I need new running shoes? I don't know. But I HATED running. It broke my heart. Now I don't know if I WANT to buy new running shoes and try again.
Is there hope for me? Or do I need to find a new outlet?
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Sewing project
So a few years ago I got a sewing machine. I started off by making reusable gift wrap. I moved on to hair bows and pacifier clips. Back in May, KC was out of town so I randomly decided to sew a small patchwork quilt. (when I bother to bind it and such I will show you, but I see no point in showing off a half made quilt.)
Then I sewed punkin a simple skirt pattern I found online. (In this photo she had just pulled the skirt up over her stomach and rolled the waist band so it looks a little funny, but you get the point. It is the only photo I could find of her in the skirt.) I was proud of my little skirt, even if it was like the simplest article of clothing possible to make. I loved the fabric and I thought it was perfect for a little girl summer adventure.
Then I sewed punkin a simple skirt pattern I found online. (In this photo she had just pulled the skirt up over her stomach and rolled the waist band so it looks a little funny, but you get the point. It is the only photo I could find of her in the skirt.) I was proud of my little skirt, even if it was like the simplest article of clothing possible to make. I loved the fabric and I thought it was perfect for a little girl summer adventure.
Anyway, so yesterday I decided to conquer another project that has been on my mind for awhile. I made a little half apron - free hand. See, I've never sewn with a pattern before, and the thought scares me. SO, I figured it is an apron, not too complicated right? Well, as a result, here it is. It has no fun ruffles. It has no cute bows. It is probably a little on the long side, and I know it is not perfect, but I made it and I'm proud of the result. (And all while KC was taking a practice exam!) (oh, and don't be surprised if I go back and change the pockets. I am thinking of removing the left one and maybe putting a little black ribbon bow on the right one. What do you think?)
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
More than just books
There is much more going on in my life than reading books. Actually, I'm really not even reading enough to meet my goal! Working on another of my goals of going on an adventure every month, we went and took the awesome family summer vacation this last week.
Is there anything more exciting than playing on sand dunes looking out over such amazing blue water? (Please note the little ponytail shadow in this photograph. Amazing!) Now that we are back in internet land, I'll try to catch up, but I make no promises. If nothing else, you can look back and enjoy this photo and bask in the warm sun and perfect weather that we had. Now we are back to the hot and sticky weather, just praying that the dog days will end soon!
Book 22 - Water for Elephants
Water for Elephants - Sara Gruen
Okay, I know, I'm like the last person in the world to read this book or see this movie. (For the record, I haven't seen the movie.) Overall, I enjoyed the book. I loved the elephant. It was a great page turner, but, in general, a little too crude for me. There was much more X rated content than was necessary.
Anyway, I'm not going to dive in further for a "review" seeing that everyone pretty much already knows the story line. I did enjoy the story and couldn't put it down. It was really fun to get wrapped up into the world of the old train circuses.
Okay, I know, I'm like the last person in the world to read this book or see this movie. (For the record, I haven't seen the movie.) Overall, I enjoyed the book. I loved the elephant. It was a great page turner, but, in general, a little too crude for me. There was much more X rated content than was necessary.
Anyway, I'm not going to dive in further for a "review" seeing that everyone pretty much already knows the story line. I did enjoy the story and couldn't put it down. It was really fun to get wrapped up into the world of the old train circuses.
Book 21 - Executive Orders
Executive Orders - Tom Clancy
We recently listened to this book as we drove through PA and MD. It was a nice change of pace from all sorts of mix cds that you listen to on a road trip. It was classic Clancy, which is great for a book on tape. There was excitement and plot twists. Unfortunately a lot of bad language. I guess I was glad that Punkin was asleep the whole time. Probably won't go for a Clancy book on tape again for family road trip for that reason, but I did enjoy it. It reminded me a lot of one of the seasons of 24 (which is a snow I loved.) so that was fun too. It was also nice that this isn't a Clancy that I've seen in video format so I wasn't trying to push Ben Affleck or someone else into my visual too much.
Have you ever done a book on tape to drive? Is it too monotone/droning for you, or do you like the story line to follow. (My husband and I are divided on this so it would be interesting to hear others thoughts.)
We recently listened to this book as we drove through PA and MD. It was a nice change of pace from all sorts of mix cds that you listen to on a road trip. It was classic Clancy, which is great for a book on tape. There was excitement and plot twists. Unfortunately a lot of bad language. I guess I was glad that Punkin was asleep the whole time. Probably won't go for a Clancy book on tape again for family road trip for that reason, but I did enjoy it. It reminded me a lot of one of the seasons of 24 (which is a snow I loved.) so that was fun too. It was also nice that this isn't a Clancy that I've seen in video format so I wasn't trying to push Ben Affleck or someone else into my visual too much.
Have you ever done a book on tape to drive? Is it too monotone/droning for you, or do you like the story line to follow. (My husband and I are divided on this so it would be interesting to hear others thoughts.)
Monday, July 18, 2011
Book 20 - The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie
The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie - Alan Bradley
I'm only okay with mysteries in general. This one was a little out there. It wasn't until the last 100 pages or so that I really got into it. There were some great moments of suspense throughout the book that kept me wanting more, but I wasn't excited to finish it until the last 100 pages.
I feel like mysteries need to be plausible. I felt like this one wasn't. I mean, the main plot line was, but I feel like the main character was not. I understand why people enjoy this book. It was a delightful little tale, it was well written. I just had a hard enough time with the main character that I won't be reading the other books in the series unless I'm compelled to by another book club.
I'm only okay with mysteries in general. This one was a little out there. It wasn't until the last 100 pages or so that I really got into it. There were some great moments of suspense throughout the book that kept me wanting more, but I wasn't excited to finish it until the last 100 pages.
I feel like mysteries need to be plausible. I felt like this one wasn't. I mean, the main plot line was, but I feel like the main character was not. I understand why people enjoy this book. It was a delightful little tale, it was well written. I just had a hard enough time with the main character that I won't be reading the other books in the series unless I'm compelled to by another book club.
Friday, July 15, 2011
Book 19 - The Help
The Help - Kathryn Stockett
I read this book for book club and I had no idea what I was getting myself into when I picked the book up. I loved it. I loved the rich characters. (Though I thought that the character that the author related to the most personally, was one of the weaker sections. Ironic? Over compensating with the other characters?) It made me think a lot about what life was like on my family's own farm back when they had share croppers and help living on their property. I am highly interested in the movie made of this story that is coming to theaters soon. It is a great insight into history told in a colorful and interesting manner. I think this one is a good beach read or commuter read for this summer if you would rather read something with some meat than a romance novel but that is still a fairly quick read. (I read it in 3 days.)
I read this book for book club and I had no idea what I was getting myself into when I picked the book up. I loved it. I loved the rich characters. (Though I thought that the character that the author related to the most personally, was one of the weaker sections. Ironic? Over compensating with the other characters?) It made me think a lot about what life was like on my family's own farm back when they had share croppers and help living on their property. I am highly interested in the movie made of this story that is coming to theaters soon. It is a great insight into history told in a colorful and interesting manner. I think this one is a good beach read or commuter read for this summer if you would rather read something with some meat than a romance novel but that is still a fairly quick read. (I read it in 3 days.)
Book 18- Pat the Bunny
Pat the Bunny - Dorothy Kunhardt
Toddler LOVES this book. She carries it around the house with her. She will sit on our knees and flip through the pages. She always asks us to read it for her. It is a classic baby book. I wish it were made out of the more standard board book material. The heavy cardstock is easily mushed when she eats the corners. Otherwise we love it. It is really cute watching her smell the flowers and looking in the mirror and everything. Super fun, super cute, but that doesn't mean we don't get bored out of reading it time and time again!
Toddler LOVES this book. She carries it around the house with her. She will sit on our knees and flip through the pages. She always asks us to read it for her. It is a classic baby book. I wish it were made out of the more standard board book material. The heavy cardstock is easily mushed when she eats the corners. Otherwise we love it. It is really cute watching her smell the flowers and looking in the mirror and everything. Super fun, super cute, but that doesn't mean we don't get bored out of reading it time and time again!
Book 17 - The Ten Best Things About My Dad
The Ten Best Things About My Dad - Christine Loomis
I had to give props to this book because I read it at least 20 times a day. This is our little girl's favorite book for us to read to her. (Her favorite book to read herself is coming up in the next post.) There are simple illustrations but that we can discuss with her. All of her favorite activities and animals are in the pictures. It is a great size for her little toddler hands. (The size of the book is her favorite size.) Anyway, she loves it. We call the book Daddy-ganda, but that is okay. We love Dad so we have no issue talking about how great dad is all the time.
I had to give props to this book because I read it at least 20 times a day. This is our little girl's favorite book for us to read to her. (Her favorite book to read herself is coming up in the next post.) There are simple illustrations but that we can discuss with her. All of her favorite activities and animals are in the pictures. It is a great size for her little toddler hands. (The size of the book is her favorite size.) Anyway, she loves it. We call the book Daddy-ganda, but that is okay. We love Dad so we have no issue talking about how great dad is all the time.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Firework
Where I live, to see the big firework show in town and not be seated on an overpass, you generally have to go through a security check point. Security to go watch explosions that aren't even in your state? Irony anyone? What kind of world are we living in?
(We did love our firework experience. I might have thought twice about out choice in parking if I would have realized that we were going to walk back to the car and not use the metro, but live and learn.)
(We did love our firework experience. I might have thought twice about out choice in parking if I would have realized that we were going to walk back to the car and not use the metro, but live and learn.)
Friday, July 1, 2011
My Favorite Brunch Item
So, a little Lex history. For some time I have been dreaming of making this brunch item. I have worked off and on with a simulation program that brings in people from different aspects of government and NGOs to gain a different perspective of what happens the post war reconstruction environment. Anyway, it is a 3 day program that includes a breakfast and a lunch included with it. Whatever caterer they use for breakfast is my culinary dream come true. They make this one savory little treat thing that I dream of often. As a result, I had to try my hand at this simple recipe. Here was my go at it, it is simple enough that you can modify it to your tastes. These are just items I had in my home when the craving hit after the little one woke me up 2 hours early this morning. (She went back to sleep, but I couldn't. Bah!) I love how it turned out, but I am now tempted to try them again with a different type of cheese and/or different spices.
What you need:
muffin tin
crescent rolls (I used the prepackaged variety, but feel free to make your own.)
deli ham - shredded
cheddar cheese - chopped
rosemary
savory
How to assemble:
1. unroll the crescent rolls
2. spread the deli ham over dough
3. put 4 or 5 pieces of the chopped cheese on top of the ham
4. sprinkle with rosemary and savory
5. gather up the 3 corners of the dough and place the ball into the muffin tin
6. bake at 375 for 10 min.
Seriously easy. Seriously delicious.
What you need:
muffin tin
crescent rolls (I used the prepackaged variety, but feel free to make your own.)
deli ham - shredded
cheddar cheese - chopped
rosemary
savory
How to assemble:
1. unroll the crescent rolls
2. spread the deli ham over dough
3. put 4 or 5 pieces of the chopped cheese on top of the ham
4. sprinkle with rosemary and savory
5. gather up the 3 corners of the dough and place the ball into the muffin tin
6. bake at 375 for 10 min.
Seriously easy. Seriously delicious.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Personal thoughts from my run today
Things I believe in:
1. Having my kid see me exercise regularly
2. Exposing my kid to culture of all sorts even if we have to leave early (like today's library program)
3. That you can have fun without electronics
4. Money isn't everything
5. Having my kid see me try new things and use my talents.
6. We are happier if we are serving others. Being self absorbed is no way to enjoy life long term.
7. Bumps and bruises make you stronger.
8. Vegetables lead to a better life.
Things I don't believe in:
1. To dress sexy you have to be slutty
2 Side by side double strollers. Road hogs!
3. Vaccines do more harm than good
4. War is over in Afghanistan just because US troops are withdrawing.
5. That just because you are famous that you understand good public policy.
6. That Americans understand their rights and our political system.
7. Equality can fully be achieved (everyone wants special treatment.)
8. The age limits placed on infant toys.
These are just my personal opinions. This is the kind of thing that happens in my brain when I run. So much for clearing my head! Thoughts are swimming everywhere!!!!
1. Having my kid see me exercise regularly
2. Exposing my kid to culture of all sorts even if we have to leave early (like today's library program)
3. That you can have fun without electronics
4. Money isn't everything
5. Having my kid see me try new things and use my talents.
6. We are happier if we are serving others. Being self absorbed is no way to enjoy life long term.
7. Bumps and bruises make you stronger.
8. Vegetables lead to a better life.
Things I don't believe in:
1. To dress sexy you have to be slutty
2 Side by side double strollers. Road hogs!
3. Vaccines do more harm than good
4. War is over in Afghanistan just because US troops are withdrawing.
5. That just because you are famous that you understand good public policy.
6. That Americans understand their rights and our political system.
7. Equality can fully be achieved (everyone wants special treatment.)
8. The age limits placed on infant toys.
These are just my personal opinions. This is the kind of thing that happens in my brain when I run. So much for clearing my head! Thoughts are swimming everywhere!!!!
Friday, May 20, 2011
Book 16 - Toddler ABC Guide to Discipline
Toddler ABC Guide to Discipline: Quick Secrets to Loving Guidance - Michelle Smith and Rita Chandler
** I do more than just read. It is just the only thing that is easy enough for me to force myself to blog about on a regular basis. **
I love this girl. I love her. BUT, let's be honest, it is easier to run to the store or do what you want when you know your sweet bundle of joy is going to just sleep in the car seat for the length of your errand. It is a whole different ball of wax when blood curdling screams exit their mouths every time you try to go into a Bed Bath and Beyond. (Seriously, I am beginning to think that my kid has something against sheets, towels, and small appliances.)
So, what did we do? We started reading blogs and buying books to help us to know how to deal with our new little toddler. I mean, it is frustrating when we see our friends with kids the same ages who still act much more like babies than our sweet pea who swears she is at least twice her age in her own mind.
While there are lots of useful things in this book, I'm not going to lie, It terrified me. It makes me feel like my life for the next three years is going to be non-stop tantrums and power struggles. So much so, that KC and I spent a little bit of time discussing our long term family planning in fear of having a toddler around our house for well over the next decade. (Seriously, MIL-how do you do it?)
But seriously, aside from the fear of toddlers that is now brewing within me due to this book, it was a casual, reassuring read that was quick to get through and reinforced a solid parental approach for dealing with toddlers. I left with a feeling of "I can do this!" With only the question marks to follow as I pondered my parenting style over time.
I love my girl. I am just very very afraid of parenting a toddler.
** I do more than just read. It is just the only thing that is easy enough for me to force myself to blog about on a regular basis. **
So, what did we do? We started reading blogs and buying books to help us to know how to deal with our new little toddler. I mean, it is frustrating when we see our friends with kids the same ages who still act much more like babies than our sweet pea who swears she is at least twice her age in her own mind.
While there are lots of useful things in this book, I'm not going to lie, It terrified me. It makes me feel like my life for the next three years is going to be non-stop tantrums and power struggles. So much so, that KC and I spent a little bit of time discussing our long term family planning in fear of having a toddler around our house for well over the next decade. (Seriously, MIL-how do you do it?)
But seriously, aside from the fear of toddlers that is now brewing within me due to this book, it was a casual, reassuring read that was quick to get through and reinforced a solid parental approach for dealing with toddlers. I left with a feeling of "I can do this!" With only the question marks to follow as I pondered my parenting style over time.
I love my girl. I am just very very afraid of parenting a toddler.
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Book 15- Elixir
Elixir - Hilary Duff
Twilight Twilight Twilight. Okay, now, if you know anything about me, I wasn't such a fan of the Twilight book*. (I know there are multiple Twilight books. I just couldn't read on after the first one. It was torture reading that first one for me but I kept hoping that it would get better and it didn't.) Why did I not like Twilight, I mean Elixir:
1. Romanticism of someone who is displaying stalker qualities.
2. Promotion of bad morals to a teen audience
3. Why do nice guys have to finish last and be depicted in a bad light?
Why this was worse than Twilight:
1. Poor explanation of the paranormal activity until too late in the book to even count
2. No resolution for key driving forces in the plot. (pictures, parents, guardian angels - if you are going to use things to drive your plot you need to resolve them!!! )
3. Inconstancies!!!! Why does Clea have to have a "permission slip" to fly to Brazil but not on her other flights? And that is just where it starts.
Why did I read this book in the first place? Fine, I'll admit it -the author. Back in her Disney days, I was a Hilary Duff fan. I had some serious curiosity regarding her abilities as an author. I had to find out. Now, all my negatives aside, I enjoyed this book much more than Twilight. Here's why:
1. It was a page turner for me.
2. I liked the characters. It wasn't like some sort of emo book gone bad, the characters were up beat, though not very complex or deep.
3. I Since I liked the characters, I cared what happened to them even if I got a little turned off by the portrayal of my favorite character
4. Duff did a much better job as an author than I anticipated.
*Someone on Facebook the other day compared the Twilight series to the Hunger Game series. My soul died. Those two series have NOTHING in common on a literary front other than that they are in the teen section and they are "page turners" (I believe Twilight could be a page turner for some, even if I was not part of that group.) Hunger Games addressed serious social issues. Twilight addressed what? Vampires?
Twilight Twilight Twilight. Okay, now, if you know anything about me, I wasn't such a fan of the Twilight book*. (I know there are multiple Twilight books. I just couldn't read on after the first one. It was torture reading that first one for me but I kept hoping that it would get better and it didn't.) Why did I not like Twilight, I mean Elixir:
1. Romanticism of someone who is displaying stalker qualities.
2. Promotion of bad morals to a teen audience
3. Why do nice guys have to finish last and be depicted in a bad light?
Why this was worse than Twilight:
1. Poor explanation of the paranormal activity until too late in the book to even count
2. No resolution for key driving forces in the plot. (pictures, parents, guardian angels - if you are going to use things to drive your plot you need to resolve them!!! )
3. Inconstancies!!!! Why does Clea have to have a "permission slip" to fly to Brazil but not on her other flights? And that is just where it starts.
Why did I read this book in the first place? Fine, I'll admit it -the author. Back in her Disney days, I was a Hilary Duff fan. I had some serious curiosity regarding her abilities as an author. I had to find out. Now, all my negatives aside, I enjoyed this book much more than Twilight. Here's why:
1. It was a page turner for me.
2. I liked the characters. It wasn't like some sort of emo book gone bad, the characters were up beat, though not very complex or deep.
3. I Since I liked the characters, I cared what happened to them even if I got a little turned off by the portrayal of my favorite character
4. Duff did a much better job as an author than I anticipated.
*Someone on Facebook the other day compared the Twilight series to the Hunger Game series. My soul died. Those two series have NOTHING in common on a literary front other than that they are in the teen section and they are "page turners" (I believe Twilight could be a page turner for some, even if I was not part of that group.) Hunger Games addressed serious social issues. Twilight addressed what? Vampires?
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Book 14 - Something Blue
Something Blue - Emily Giffin
I had to know the end of the tale of Darcy and Rachel! So after swearing I was going to read other stuff for a while, I was drawn to this book at the library because, as Paul Harvey would say, I had to know the rest of the story. (On a side note, don't be surprised if I ever come out with a post about Paul Harvey and how his broadcasts impacted my childhood.) Anyway, I have admitted to the world that I have a fondness for chick-lit. Please don't judge. Remember my last book? It was deep and meaningful discussing art and war and disease. Besides, with the movie for Something Borrowed opening up soon, it was like the media was pushing me to read this book NOW.
I liked this book WAY better than Something Borrowed. Maybe because it was a book about growing up rather than being a book about an affair. I thought the character shift happened too quickly, but otherwise, I liked the growth and the closure that you get that was lacking after the first book. It was a simple, predictable plot, but isn't that part of the charm of chick-lit? Anyway, I enjoyed the tale and can't help but wonder if Kate Hudson will take on Darcy part 2 in the future. (Haha, I say this with no plans of seeing Something Borrowed until it shows up on my Netflix instant queue or the Hallmark Channel or something. But, saying that, remember, I liked Something Blue WAAAAY more than I liked Something Borrowed.) I could have gone without the first few chapters of Darcy's version of the first book, but I understand why the author put it in, it's not like the Hunger Games books where it is expected that you read them all in order.
Book 13 - The Madonnas of Leningrad
The Madonnas of Leningrad - Debra Dean
I picked this book up at a closing Borders for cheap. The reviews on the back were good, and I'm a sucker for historical fiction so I grabbed it. I don't know what I really expected out of this book, but what I got was very different than expected. It was the deepest fiction book that I've read in a while.
See, this book initially comes across as a tale of Leningrad during the war, and it does a great job discussing the hardships and the challenges through the eyes of a Hermitage docent. That history is not the point of the book. This book is a beautiful tale of memory, family, and embracing the past. I don't want to give too much away, but it was a deep and meaningful discussion of love and the human existence. I loved the description of the art and I hope to be able to go visit once the munchkin is old enough to let me enjoy it! Anyway, this book is now on my books to recommend.
I picked this book up at a closing Borders for cheap. The reviews on the back were good, and I'm a sucker for historical fiction so I grabbed it. I don't know what I really expected out of this book, but what I got was very different than expected. It was the deepest fiction book that I've read in a while.
See, this book initially comes across as a tale of Leningrad during the war, and it does a great job discussing the hardships and the challenges through the eyes of a Hermitage docent. That history is not the point of the book. This book is a beautiful tale of memory, family, and embracing the past. I don't want to give too much away, but it was a deep and meaningful discussion of love and the human existence. I loved the description of the art and I hope to be able to go visit once the munchkin is old enough to let me enjoy it! Anyway, this book is now on my books to recommend.
Book 12 - Kit Learns a Lesson
Kit Learns a Lesson
I have realized that I don't have a ton to say about the American Girl books because, in my mind it just registers as "Duh! It is an American Girl Doll Book, everyone knows them, probably every girl has read them, and they really just have sweet, simple story lines. There isn't much to write about." So, if I don't write much about them when I read them, keep that in mind. I know it is too early for it to mean anything to my little girl that I read her these stories, but reading to her IS meaningful, and I enjoy having one of our story times reading chapter books. I like the variety and I like finishing fiction so it gets me motivated to read to her.
This book was oddly moving for me. Maybe it is because of the difficult economic times we are facing. Gosh knows, I had my own deeply personal struggle with finding employment, just for God to step in and give me this 24/7 career with my little girl. Anyway, I was touched by all that the characters did to deal with the depression and what it did for their family. As Punkin is rapidly leaving the baby phase and is now an active toddler, I am trying to compile a list of things I want to be sure to teach her and how we need to develop the fabric of our family to achieve those goals. Reading about Kit's family gave me the opportunity to reflect upon that.
I have realized that I don't have a ton to say about the American Girl books because, in my mind it just registers as "Duh! It is an American Girl Doll Book, everyone knows them, probably every girl has read them, and they really just have sweet, simple story lines. There isn't much to write about." So, if I don't write much about them when I read them, keep that in mind. I know it is too early for it to mean anything to my little girl that I read her these stories, but reading to her IS meaningful, and I enjoy having one of our story times reading chapter books. I like the variety and I like finishing fiction so it gets me motivated to read to her.
This book was oddly moving for me. Maybe it is because of the difficult economic times we are facing. Gosh knows, I had my own deeply personal struggle with finding employment, just for God to step in and give me this 24/7 career with my little girl. Anyway, I was touched by all that the characters did to deal with the depression and what it did for their family. As Punkin is rapidly leaving the baby phase and is now an active toddler, I am trying to compile a list of things I want to be sure to teach her and how we need to develop the fabric of our family to achieve those goals. Reading about Kit's family gave me the opportunity to reflect upon that.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Book 11- Meet Kit
Meet Kit
So we have gone back to the American Girl books for one of our story time readings every day. I felt like this book had less of a conclusion than I remember the American Girl books every having. All the same, I love reading these to my little girl and I love the glossing over of the Depression era history and culture. (A time period I don't know that much about.)
So we have gone back to the American Girl books for one of our story time readings every day. I felt like this book had less of a conclusion than I remember the American Girl books every having. All the same, I love reading these to my little girl and I love the glossing over of the Depression era history and culture. (A time period I don't know that much about.)
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Thank you
I was grateful for the opportunity to ponder the sacrifices made by our servicemen and their families. My heart went out to that family who was burying their loved one. I felt a touch of the honor they must feel for the fact that their family member had served their country in such a way that they deserved an Arlington burial.
I know that no one really reads this blog, but thank you to all of those who are serving our country and to all of their families back at home who are holding things together until their soldiers and sailors return home. Thanks for offering me the freedoms that I have to simply enjoy a sunny afternoon with my baby in this wonderful country.
( I mean, our country has issues, but most of those are rooted here in Washington, not with the service that is being done by our servicemen and women. )
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Birthday Adventure!
Just in time for my baby's first birthday, I got injured. Thank goodness for good friends and for my parents being able to help out and give my little girl a fantastic birthday adventure!
There was fun playing in some flowers on a beautiful day!
A shopping trip is always an adventure! Esp. when Mom and Dad let you drive the cart! (Don't worry, it was a toy store cart, not a grocery store cart.)
Of course, what good is a birthday adventure if there isn't some quality cake smashing!
This little girl loves a play ground adventure.
She also started testing out career options. I think she'd be happy as a dentist.
We also took a trip to the local national park farm! The baby had fun in the chicken coop! She loved waving to the rooster!
We also got to introduce her to her first horse friend. He liked us but he LOVED my mom. The baby wasn't sure what she wanted to do more--pet the horse or be afraid of him. She settled on a mixture of the two.
A final swim class for the term. This girl loves being in the water!
Anyway, I figure it was a great first birthday adventure, even if she had a broken Mama.
Happy first birthday Little One!
Book 10-Something Borrowed
Something Borrowed - Emily Giffin
So I didn't have a lot of hope for this book. I read another Giffin book last year and I wasn't thrilled with it. Though, it was a page turner with some nice twists and turns. Well, then you ask, why did I pick this one up? Well, honestly it was because it is going to be a movie with some actors that I really like. I was hoping this book would be that page turner with twists and turns without the things I didn't enjoy about the other book of hers.
Well, I am going to put it this way, I still have hopes for a cute romcom movie to pull up on netflix. The book itself was in the sheets a lot more than I found necessary for even a book about an affair. Not explicit in between the sheets, but there was just a lot of ink dedicated to the topic. Otherwise, I really enjoyed it in that page turner with just enough unexpected from a predictable ending that I wanted to keep reading. I mean, it was a quick read, which also helped.
It wasn't quality, high brow lit that you'd expect from a JD turned author, but it was a fun beach read. There is a sequel called Something Blue that tells the "what happens next" from another character's perspective. You will see my review for Something Blue before the end of the summer. (I just have a few other books that are either currently being read or that are in my queue to read before I can justify another beach read.) Sigh....maybe I'll even get to take a book to the beach... a girl can dream, right?
So I didn't have a lot of hope for this book. I read another Giffin book last year and I wasn't thrilled with it. Though, it was a page turner with some nice twists and turns. Well, then you ask, why did I pick this one up? Well, honestly it was because it is going to be a movie with some actors that I really like. I was hoping this book would be that page turner with twists and turns without the things I didn't enjoy about the other book of hers.
Well, I am going to put it this way, I still have hopes for a cute romcom movie to pull up on netflix. The book itself was in the sheets a lot more than I found necessary for even a book about an affair. Not explicit in between the sheets, but there was just a lot of ink dedicated to the topic. Otherwise, I really enjoyed it in that page turner with just enough unexpected from a predictable ending that I wanted to keep reading. I mean, it was a quick read, which also helped.
It wasn't quality, high brow lit that you'd expect from a JD turned author, but it was a fun beach read. There is a sequel called Something Blue that tells the "what happens next" from another character's perspective. You will see my review for Something Blue before the end of the summer. (I just have a few other books that are either currently being read or that are in my queue to read before I can justify another beach read.) Sigh....maybe I'll even get to take a book to the beach... a girl can dream, right?
Friday, April 15, 2011
Book 9 - The Girls from Ames
The Girls from Ames - Jeffrey Zaslow
So I have been reading like 4 or 5 books at a time right now, and this is the first one that I have gotten around to finishing. I mean, so hear is the deal with me and non-fiction. I finish them quickly if they are AMAZING writing, I finish them quickly if I have some sort of compelling reason that I have to (for example-for some sort of assignment.) If it is a topic that I am interested in, then I finish the book. Otherwise, eh, I will read it until I feel like I have gotten the gist of the book and then I'll move on. I do plan on finishing all of the books that I'm currently reading for the sake of my goal, even though there is at least one that would otherwise be tossed into the "eh, I'm done with you" pile.
This book though, is a different story. It was in the "interested so I'll finish" category. This is a very interesting recollection of a group of friends who have remained friends from childhood into adulthood. This book took me a while to finish because it made me contemplate the relationships in my life. I thought it was a great human interest piece. I laughed with them, I cried with them (a lot). It made me long for a big group of friends that I'm still close with since like the 2nd grade. There a few individuals I have that kind of longevity with, but no group. That makes me kind of sad. I've always been kind of a floater from group to group and I really wish I would have been/would be actually embraced by a group of friends. Sigh... some day, right? Don't get me wrong, I have great friends, but never a group quite like the women in this book. I got close with my post-college pre-marriage friends, but right now I don't know how we are withstanding the test of our current situations.
This book says that most friend groups break up for women around the time of weddings and babies. Why is that? If you ask me, it is a time in life where you need the extra support. You need the people you can call that isn't family when you wonder "is this normal?" I feel like women are too proud at this faze, trying to prove that they can do it by themselves or in a me and my spouse against the world! mentality.
Anyway, I am going to stop. I have a lot of little personal soap boxes I could get on that were topics raised in this book.
My advice, call you friends. Don't facebook them. Don't IM them. Call them, catch up. Go get gellato. Go do your thing. Plan a trip. See them. Hug them. It is worthwhile for you and for them. This book reinforced this for me.
So I have been reading like 4 or 5 books at a time right now, and this is the first one that I have gotten around to finishing. I mean, so hear is the deal with me and non-fiction. I finish them quickly if they are AMAZING writing, I finish them quickly if I have some sort of compelling reason that I have to (for example-for some sort of assignment.) If it is a topic that I am interested in, then I finish the book. Otherwise, eh, I will read it until I feel like I have gotten the gist of the book and then I'll move on. I do plan on finishing all of the books that I'm currently reading for the sake of my goal, even though there is at least one that would otherwise be tossed into the "eh, I'm done with you" pile.
This book though, is a different story. It was in the "interested so I'll finish" category. This is a very interesting recollection of a group of friends who have remained friends from childhood into adulthood. This book took me a while to finish because it made me contemplate the relationships in my life. I thought it was a great human interest piece. I laughed with them, I cried with them (a lot). It made me long for a big group of friends that I'm still close with since like the 2nd grade. There a few individuals I have that kind of longevity with, but no group. That makes me kind of sad. I've always been kind of a floater from group to group and I really wish I would have been/would be actually embraced by a group of friends. Sigh... some day, right? Don't get me wrong, I have great friends, but never a group quite like the women in this book. I got close with my post-college pre-marriage friends, but right now I don't know how we are withstanding the test of our current situations.
This book says that most friend groups break up for women around the time of weddings and babies. Why is that? If you ask me, it is a time in life where you need the extra support. You need the people you can call that isn't family when you wonder "is this normal?" I feel like women are too proud at this faze, trying to prove that they can do it by themselves or in a me and my spouse against the world! mentality.
Anyway, I am going to stop. I have a lot of little personal soap boxes I could get on that were topics raised in this book.
My advice, call you friends. Don't facebook them. Don't IM them. Call them, catch up. Go get gellato. Go do your thing. Plan a trip. See them. Hug them. It is worthwhile for you and for them. This book reinforced this for me.
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