I've been a awol from blogland for so long I'm pretty sure that I'm going to have to kick up the witty rapport to gain readers. hehehe
All is good. Here's the skinny.
We moved. Loving being closer to home and both families. Made a career change in that I'm freelancing from home. All the boxes are unpacked Haven't hung a thing on the walls yet Had a great first Halloween and Thanksgiving Little mini is 8 months and 1) has 2 teeth 2) understands no and stop ;-) 3) with the help of her father has taught herself to stand up in bed and playpen 4) was on the verge of crawling, but now I'm thinking that she's focusing more on walking... go figure 5) loves popsicles 6) is fascinated by other babies and little children 7) is learning how to 'give kisses' but this has been misconstrued by some as biting 8) goes into self induced fits of giggles daily 9) hates with a capital H getting her hair done 10) looks a little more like me every day
When you're not sitting in front of the computer 8 hours a day, blogging becomes another task on the to do list, but I'm really going to try and do better. I'm horrible at keeping in touch and this was my only redemption... can't just let that fall thru the cracks!
on so many things. I've decided that 10 on Tuesday might be all the bloggin effort that I can muster for a bit. So, here's to yesterday!
1) WE'RE MOVING!!! Yay! Back across the state line for us. I feel like I can finally take my personal life off pause (but I'm hitting the button on my professional life for a moment).
2) In the spirit of moving, my FL worries are so much lighter. hahahaha I want to toss my head back and laugh at the things that I encounter lately. 3) Speaking of tossing my head back, my original stylist who was out of commission when a bullet bit her bootie (really) is back in action. On Saturday she confirmed that my temple baldness is due to giving birth (thankfully it's coming back, without it, I have one jacked-up hairline), that me with no layers is plain ridiculous, and that bringing back my side swoop bang was definitely the right thing to do. My hair almost looks exactly how it looked in high school 10 years ago. Guess it was time to loop back around. :-)
4) Speaking of high school, I'm pretty sure that take two of the Class Reunion is going to be a flop. Just don't think that many people are interested. Boy did I romanticize the bond the class of 98 had. Oh well. Someone emailed me and stated that the new date (Oct 24th/25th) was too close to the holidays... WHAT?? Halloween maybe?
5) Mon, Thursday, Sat and Sunday are football days in our house which means I DVR all of my shows and watch them when I can. Last nite I watched One Tree Hill and Army Wives. Both had funerals and sad overtones. Yes, I cried. Silent tears for Q who even though I know he's a fictional character, I find myself wishing he hadn't stopped to get gas, and tears for Joan b/c I want her to survive and see/enjoy that precious baby girl. Oh and Claudia Joy, I want her to grab a vase and bash that man's skull in. Yes, I know I'm way to wrapped up in these shows. hehehe
6) The AU game on last week was just pitiful. Come on offense, 3 - 2! I was going to call and mess with some friends of mine who are MS State fans, but decided it wasn't worth the breath.
7) The little mini is a hoot lately. She's trying to lay down the law and her way of going about it is hilarious. For example, so far she thinks she doesn't like apples (I may have used the wrong kind when I made her baby food, I used Golden Delicious b/c I thought they were sweet. Think I'm going to try again with just plain red apples), but refusing to think any child of mine could be anti any fruit, I keep trying. So to counter my tries, she's taken to blowing kisses (aka spitting) every time I put a spoonful in her mouth. She's won for now and we switched to peaches, but you better believe that those apples will be back!
8) Yesterday when I got home from work, KJ had cooked dinner, done laundry, cleaned the bathrooms, and given the little mini a bath. Moments like those remind me that I don't appreciate nor can I love that man near enough.
9) Been jammin to Leona Lewis lately. I really like her. Have you heard her new song Better in time? I think we all can say that this should be the break up anthem.
10) Speaking of music, the little mini likes Thriller, Smooth Criminal, and Ice Ice Baby. Ha, she's definitely following in my musical footsteps. In your face KJ! (side bar in regards to pic below: I do do her hair {and she has A LOT}, but it's easiest to do when she's sleeping so thus during the week she's either busting the baby fro or rocking a strategically placed barrett. Didn't want you to think I was neglecting my momma duties. hehehe)
Okay so there's some major updating due on my part. Shall I begin?
1) Work has gone from ridiculously slow to insanely busy. I have a post it on my computer to remind me not to complain (see, here's a pic). I've done my fair share of griping and now I truly believe that the Lord is emotionally detaching me from this job in preparation for something else. Maybe something back home?? Who knows! All I know is that I refuse to beg for a workload and I also refuse to work under the premise of "hahahaha, complete the impossible and prep for 2 meetings, a trade show, and finish up the product year all in one week." I'm not the one.
2) KJ's been in AL training for 5 weeks and I must seriously give some heavy duty props to all the single mommas out there. My time wasn't even that bad b/c he made arrangements for both his mom and my mom to come help out over the weeks, and I have the knowledge in the back of my mind that the calvary is coming home soon, but talk about exhausting. Funny how a tiny little person can completely wear you out. I think the secret is the naps. Her abundance and my lack of.
3) Speaking of the little miss, she's hit some major milestones (in no particular order): • Got her ears pierced • Has discovered her toes • Laughs when you find her tickle box (which can be anywhere on any given day) • Loves to have conversation (when you're talking with her and when you're on the phone with someone else) • Rolls from tummy to back (I think she did this in anticipation of the college football season starting. Just because she can't say Roll Tide with her Daddy doesn't mean she doesn't get the concept. I'm seriously working on her first words being War Eagle. That'll show him. ;-) ) • Has mastered and likes rice cereal, sweet potato, and bananas; sweet peas not so much, but we're going to reintro them again this weekend (and please no comments on the order in which I've introed the solids, there's method behind my madness) • Definitely knows who her momma and daddy are and that makes my heart just about burst Here's a few pics:
4) A girlfriend called to tell me she was going to leave me behind if I didn't jump on the "getting my sexy back" train. So I've borrowed Hip Hop Abs from my coworker for 2 weeks and done it once. Shame! I refuse to get left behind, so me and Shawn T are doing it up sometime soon.
5) The other day I bought pesto sauce and used it on spagetti noodles with grilled chicken. Yum, yum I definitely need to get back in the kitchen. I'm embarrassed at what's been passing for dinner the past 5 weeks. It's tough when you're the only one to please and you can get by on a kit kat and hummus.
6) We have new neighbors who are awesome. 2 days after their furniture came in the invited us over for dinner and boy can she cook. Shame that I still haven't had them over. She's due in the next couple of weeks and I'm trying to think of a dish to take over once the little one arrives. Going to use this as my opportunity to pull ahead in the good neighbor race.
7) The neighbors on the other side of us have also stepped up their awesomeness. He's been cutting our grass since KJ's been away. I was going to just the the amazon grow as it pleased. I'm thinking a dinner gift card would be a nice way to say "Thank you for maintaining our front yard jungle, hope the foreign wildlife didn't bother you..."
8) Have I mentioned how amazing grandmother's are? The little mini loves her Grandma-mom and Nana to pieces. It re-affirms that this is the way the whole circle of life thing should be.
9) Had to postpone the class reunion. Sigh. Disappointed doesn't begin to even tip the iceburg of feelings I had about this. Honestly, it kind of makes me feel like I failed.
10) Let's end on a positive note shall we: Overall things have been really fantastic on our end. And I'm thinking of going to this, just to see what could possibly come out of the woodworks. Ahhh, Florida. ;-)
Happy Thursday peps! Hello, is anyone out there????
so that I won't be last on Tricey's "blogs last updated" list. hehehe
• Why do headbands hurt? Speaking of hair, I'm about to straighten mine again and wear it straight for a while... I think... The curly wild do is doing something weird towards the end of my hair where it's curly, curly, and then straight for the last inch or so. Looks scraggly, like I need a hair cut.
• Prepping for the little mini's first plane ride, we tested out the wrap carrier yesterday (pardon the pic craziness, camera was on the wrong setting). She likes it and so do I. (huge sigh of relief... we don't do well with remembering to tote a stroller, just ask Colleen how we met her at the outlets and b/c we had forgot the stroller, someone thought it would be a good idea to tote her around in just her carrier... which she hates and hello, that thing is heavy as all get out.)
• Thank you all for your support and just letting me know that you're there and that I'm not crazy! This should have been number one on this list, but I guess this shows how sparatic my thoughts are. There still aren't enough hours in the day (but really who would say that there were?) but I feel like I've backed away from the ledge a little bit. ;-)
• Class reunion planning is underway! Date is Aug 15th and 16th and all those who visit my blog and went to high school with me, well, head your bootie right on over to the alum site and register and rsvp. Whether you're coming or not, we really need to know who all's been contacted... but I hope you're coming. ;-)
• We've had people visiting for three weekends and nothing makes you feel more "normal" then seeing familiar faces in your home. For a moment it was almost like we all lived close together.
• I'm a little burnt out on bbq as KJ and I finally finished off the rest of the meat from the fourth. Really, the past few nights my dinner has been bbq lamb, bbq brats, maybe a rib or chicken and potato salad out of the container (since KJ doesn't eat it, I had to finish that off myself and who wants the extra dishes, so I just stuck my fork in). Hummm, now I guess I have to make dinner tonight. That's the down side.
• It's impossible for me to pack in advance for a trip. We're headed to NC this weekend and each night I've said that I would pack something (anything) and each night I've come up short. hehehe Shoot I didn't even pack for my honeymoon until the morning of my wedding.
• I'm looking for some good movies to add to my blockbuster list... any recommendations?
• I need to find a tailor to alter some of my clothes. I have work pants and jeans that I've never worn b/c they are either too long or too big in the waist (but fit perfectly thru the thigh). I've read that the key to looking "put together" is having clothing that fits you. My goal is to look "put together".
• I loaned my neighbor my "good" umbrella the other day and they're in the process of moving (either leaving this afternoon or tomorrow morning) so I've been scoping my umbrella lying on a box in her garage. Is it petty that I keep thinking "don't take my umbrella!!" and for this thought to consume my mind? KJ bought me the polka-dot umbrella b/c he said it was sooo me, and he was right. I guess right now it's sooo my neighbor.
That's what I'm feeling like lately. Like I'm coming in sub-par as a wife, mom, friend, employee, daughter, neice, sister, church member etc. Really everything. I've got a million and eight things running thru my mind constantly of things that need to get done. I have a problem saying no and I'm realizing that my once full plate is now running over. I mentioned once before that it bothered me that I couldn't "keep my word" as I once had. I don't call back, I don't email, favors and requests go weeks before I can even attempt to acknowledge them. Geez louise, something's gotta give right? Now just figuring what's gotta go is the difficult part. I hate to let people down... but really that's exactly what I'm doing.
All of this is spawned from and email I got from my coworker this morn. I was late (been running late all week, but before this I had really been doing pretty well if you can believe that) and he sent me an email in regards to how tardiness at work really adds up over the year. Infuriated me, but I didn't say anything. In fact I'm still biting my tongue b/c I know that if it weren't true then it wouldn't have made a hill of beans difference to me. So I've got some improving to do. I refuse to get another little email like that. I refuse to feel rushed with my child at any time in the day. I refuse to allow my husband to live off of Doritos and gatorade b/c I can't seem to remember the way to my kitchen. (Oh and as a little disclaimer, KJ does EXCELLENTLY in helping the house run smoothly. He does cook, but for the most part he picks the little mini up from day care and that's time consuming in itself. I get home an hour later. So it's 6 or 7 and dinner hasn't even been thought up, let alone arranged to be prepared...hence the mention of the crock pot blog yesterday.) Everything seems to be in a vicious cycle. I can't really get things done in a timely manner at work b/c I'm having to break and pump. I'm not getting as much milk for the little mini b/c I'm sitting at my desk trying to finish up "one more thing" before I go pump. I have long since accepted the fact that you can't be awesome at EVERYTHING, but I'm a strong believer in choosing what you are awesome at. I've got to get my priorities in line and let a few things go.... before I go nut-so.
Okay, this was not a pity post, more so a little helper in helping me hold my tongue. I had to get it out. Had to explain why this morning after waking up at the bootie crack of dawn and packing a million bags for work, daycare, etc, tearing myself away from the sweetest face ever that I don't see near enough during the day, and driving 45 freaking minutes behind every 18 wheeler known to man into a job that I stayed late at last night and almost every night week before last, for which there is no compensation, that I was late. 23 freaking minutes late. sigh.
1) I heard a talk segment on the radio yesterday about "baby daddies" and to say it made me mad would be an understatement. I was disgusted. What the crap is wrong with a women where they would lay up with a man who's not even good to them and then expect them to be excellent fathers. Hellloooo, they dip. I won't even get on how the thought of so many men out there not even acting like they have babies makes my stomach turn. Interestingly enough, Obama has a few ideas on how to increase the involvement of absentee fathers.
2) I'm trying out new shampoos since mine is MIA. So far I'm one frizzy headed, woman. Just for ref, I've tried Pantene for curly hair and now Frutruis and I'm not really happy about either (and they're twice the price that Suave was).
3) So far it sounds like a ranting 10 on Tuesday, but that's not how I'm feeling. Here's something good: my little bad apple at church and I seem to have made it thru the rough stage. He's mellowing out some and I think I've figured out a little better how to deal with him. Still a long way to go, but I can see some progress
4) My parents came to visit on Friday and Sat and I can't possibly describe how they are the best grandparents ever. And I think the little mini knows it.
5) I'm proud to say that I hit KJ's father's day gift dead on! He's so difficult to buy for sometimes b/c he doesn't want anything. Well I remember him mentioning a video golf lesson (so he could see his swing and stuff...), so the little mini got him that and a crimson golf shirt from Under Armor and "we" designed him a card. I think the card was his favorite part... let's just say that we know him really well so it was full of inside jokes.
6) I may get to see Colleen and walking Dash this weekend (oh and John too)! Very excited.
7) I saw this website for crock pot recipes and I'm so going to try it. I think I may need a bigger crock pot though... mine is a "single serving" size.
8) When is it too late to send belated b-day cards? I missed a few bdays in April and May and feel horrible. Dear sweet Caroline and Alana-lana if you're reading this: I'm sooooo sorry! Don't doubt how special you each are to me, just know that my mind has been ridiculously overwhelmed lately and it's running on slow.
9) I am in the throws of planning/helping with a class reunion, and 2 family reunions. I guess summer time is the time to get reunited.
10) A friend approached me about a subject this morn and I have to say that I love the way that she did it. It reminded me how good of friends we really are. She inspired me to "step up my friend game", which sadly I think I've let slip. Too many excuses, none of them good. Love you tons my Tricey and thanks for being my reminder.
1) I have waaayyyy too much paperwork on my desk. Today is the day to purge.
2) Love Kate Voegele. She plays Mia on One Tree Hill and low and behold she's really a recording artist. She's talented, young with a strong voice. Here's her remake of the song Hallelujah:
3) Been on a superhero kick for the last couple of weeks. I'm addicted to Smallville (the story of Superman as a teen, KJ and I rent the old seasons on dvd) and then KJ and I went to see Iron Man on Saturday night. Sigh. Oh how I love super powers.
4) That's right, you read correctly, KJ and I went to a movie. And nope we're not those people who take a small baby to the movie to hope that she won't cry, but secretly know that she will and that it will disrupt everyone else who payed the ridiculous fee for 2 hours of entertainment. hehehe KJ's sister wanted to keep her, so the little mini went to her first sleep over.
5) Our house is crazy quiet without that 10lb bundle of giggles and screams.
6) Army Wives is back on tv! The season started off with a bang (literally). Just in time as most of my other shows are going into re-run phase right now.
7) Last week was ridiculously busy at work. I came in early, I left late. Today is the first day where we've been able to breathe and I have about a million personal tasks to tackle. And yes, I plan on tackling them during work hours.
8) I've been mentally beating myself up about doing what I say I'm going to do. Honestly, I've gotten quite horrible (like if I say I'll call you right back, I normally don't...or if I need to email you something, it might take me waaay longer than it should). I'm going to work on getting better at that, b/c I don't like the thought that my word has lost credibility.
9) I have grandiose Ideas of kindness, but a very small budget. Unfortunately this results in more thoughts than actions. I'm working on changing this also as I know all too well that people need to know you care and that they are thought of.
10) Father's Day is around the corner and I'm actually ahead of the game. The little mini and I have knocked out KJ and my dad, now we just need to figure out what we're getting KJ's dad. Is shopping for all men difficult?
****** Bonus b/c I have so many randoms going thru my mind********
11) I'm forcing myself to finally make the jump to cloth diapers. We've finally used up just about all of our freebies and I currently own 6 bumGeniuses that I'm washing up tonight to test out for the next couple of days. There's about to be a lot of washing going on at our little abode (atleast until I purchase more cloth diapers, but I'm not one to jump into change, I'm more of an ease into it kind of girl). Wish us luck. ;-)
12) I'm on a quest to recreate some of our favorite restaurant dishes. First up is the Jamaican Jerk Chicken wrap from Tropical Smoothie. Oh so yum.
13) Is it wrong to have quams about helping people who make no effort to help themselves. There's a woman at church who has a niece that's young (17, 18, or 19) and had a baby girl around the same time I had the little mini. The girl's boyfriend is apparently a drug dealer and she does not work. Anywho the lady at church has stopped me on several occasions when I've got the little mini and said, "Oh, that's a cute outfit. Just pack up the clothes she can't wear anymore and I'll pick them up and give them to my niece. I'm so tired of seeing her baby in the same onesies." This is going to make me sound mean, but I always think. "Sorry, not my problem. Tell your lazy niece to get off her bum and go get a job." I'm praying on the situation and doing some studying up on the act of being kind. I'm a huge believer in not handicapping someone with kindness, by not allowing them to take care of themselves if they are capable. Plus the lady at church comes across gruff, although I know she's not always intending to, but I always think, "Oh sister, you don't know me. You can't MAKE me do anything." I've got some growing to do.
14) Do you all use you tube? I've been trying to upload videos for the fam, but having a little trouble with the private option. Is there another thing like you tube that allows you to share videos?
15) Okay, that's it. I've got to clear off my desk and then start tackling some of this Personal Task List. Geez louise. Will there ever be a day when I can look around and think, "My, I have absolutely nothing to do?" hehehe I'm not thinking so. And for picture sake...This is the progression of the face that says, "I'm making you a surprise in my pants." aka "the poop face" (If I ever get out of my house then I'll take pics of more than just the little mini, but until then, bare with me. ;-) )
1) Why in the world have they discontinued Suave for curly hair? Seriously, I found one bottle of shampoo at Dollar General. I'm still in search of some conditioner... 2) Yesterday I had to reason with myself as to why I could not eat oatmeal cookies for breakfast. Although, of all the desserts, don't you think oatmeal cookies and carrot cake sound remotely nutritious? 3) Gotta start cooking. Gotta. I think I'm going to go on a casserole crusade. Any ideas? 4) Trying to pull together KJ's daddy's day gift. He wants a video-taped golf lesson so that he can better see his form for improvement. Shamefully, I was trying to reserve this gift for his bday b/c there's just not a lot of things that he ever says he wants. 5) When little ones poop in the tub, it is absolutely gross, but the face they make when doing it is hilarious. Kind of like shock and "maybe you won't notice" all in one expression. I'm not calling any names, so this person shall remain anonymous. 6) Went to Target and scored some new shirts. Now I just need new shoes. Does anyone know when Dillards does their shoe sale? It's the best... 7) Speaking of sales, it's Semi Annual time for Bath and Body and Vicky Secret. I'm going to try and hit both up... heaven knows I need to clean out my undie drawer. 8) The environment friendly non-toxic Method cleaning products are pretty good. I love the eucalyptus mint bathroom scrub. I've been using it frequently to clean out the tub in the middle of andafter someone who shall remain anonymous' bath... 9) I really really like this song. It makes me turn my radio up loud and bounce around in the driver's seat. 10) I'm getting the itching for a girls' weekend. Wish gas and plane tickets weren't only for the rich and famous. ;-)
Funny how no matter how long of a weekend you have, Monday seems to come crashing in way too soon.
On Friday our company went canoeing. LOL. Good times. I must say that navigating a canoe is a little more difficult than a kayak as my partner and I kept running into tree branches and stumps along the river's edge, but although we may not be Olympic condition yet, we laughed the entire time. My only fear was that I might have a tick in my hair after going thru so many branches... After washing my hair on Friday, Sat and Sun, I'm glad to report that I'm tick free. ;) And just as I had suspected, canoeing was great exercise (although my arms weren't really that sore the next day...) but in the non tedious way. I'm up for doing it again.
On Sat. I took the little mini to Sears to get some quick pics made. She did well, although she was so not trying to smile, more so curious as to why she was there. I've determined that portrait studios for kids is the ultimate job for easy up-selling. It's hard to resist a cute pic of your own kid. I went in with a coupon for 1 pose several pictures and I ended up leaving with 1 pic from 4 poses. Spent a little more than I intended, but I'm chalking it up to a learning experience, and plan on just scanning the 8x10s and turning them into wallets at home.
The rest of the weekend was pretty easy going. KJ made the best dinner of ribs and lamb with potatos au gratin and green beans. Just thinking of that lamb makes my mouth water! Anywho, we had friends over for dinner and then KJ proceeded to wipe us all out in Monopoly. They hadn't played since they were children and they failed to heed to my warnings that by no means do you deal with KJ, but again a learning experience (for them). By the end of the game KJ owned just about every property and had established what we called "Suicide Lane" on two sides of the board.
So a pretty easy going weekend. I didn't get half the things done that I probably needed to, but nothing was urgent, so no worries.
Here's the short before I get into the long. KJ and I have different taste in things. In general I'm wayyyy artsy-fartsy and he's more sensible. So when it comes to fashion we don't always see eye to eye. His fashion or mine. I have long since stopped trying to buy him clothing. Unless it is something specific that he's picked out or just a plain polo shirt to replace another one for work then I generally don't even bother. On the flip side, KJ can generally pick out an entire outfit for me and I'll love it. This is why: 1)He does have good taste, but it's a very narrow vision overall and 2) I'm easier to please and fashion wise I'm up for variety. He on the other hand is not.
So here's what's up for discussion. Tell me what you think. I'm cleaning out my closet this weekend and there are a few shirts that I have that KJ HATES. They're not hootchie shirts or anything, but they're very artsy. For ex, one is pink striped with strategically placed bleach marks around the graphic design. I love the shirt, KJ not so much. So I started thinking, I only wear the shirt when either I'm visiting with friends or when I won't be seeing KJ (if I'm out of town or something) b/c I just hate to hear the "Why do you like that shirt so much" comment coming. So then I have a mental debate with myself about dressing to please me and dressing to please my husband. In theory, every single moment of everyday, I would like for him to look at me and love EVERY aspect of my very being. Sidebar: this is just about the clothes, I promise that we're not superficial and that our love is based on more than either of our wardrobes or outward appearances. But humor me and follow my twisted train of thought...
Anyway, if I wear something that is unflattering to him, then who am I trying to appease. Simple answer... myself. Some clothes just make me feel good. I have a t-shirt that I got from Goodwill in AU that says Auburn High HAS Athletics. It cracks me UP (just ask Liz, it's a running joke that whenever I wear it I'll look at her and say Get IT?! Get it?! and most times she just shakes her head). It makes me feel good. Now this wouldn't even be up for discussion if the following situation had not occurred: KJ and I were talking about cologne and I mentioned how I didn't like the smell of something and he said that he wouldn't wear it then b/c who else would he be trying to smell good for. This is kind of the same thing right?? Or at least along the same lines, right?
Anywho, just food for thought. And to throw a wrench in it all, I own a lot of perfume that KJ doesn't like the smell of (some he calls old lady scents). I love perfume and all different kinds of scents, but by the time I get home it's all worn off so that's not really the same issue as clothing... okay I'm just rambling now.
So plain and simple: do you rock and outfit that your significant other can't stand?
that were on my mind this morning as I drove into work.
1) I love leggins. Love them. I don't wear them, but I plan on trying to fix this soon. I'm just not that fashion forward and I have a horrible habit of waiting until a "trend" is on it's tail end before jumping on board. Well, leggins here I come.
2) Wearing leggins requires that you have great shoes. I need great shoes. Most of the shoes in my closet are dusty, scuffed up, and barely hanging on. I was trying to find a good shoe repair shop, but now I'm thinking that my whole collection needs an overhaul.
3) This morning a rabid 18 wheeler drove way too close for my comfort for most of my commute to work. Seriously, I had to go 80 just to get away from his side as he had decided to speed up and ride beside me and then he would fall back and speed up again seemingly wanting to bump me off the road. My plan was to tell whatever police officer that pulled me over that I was only speeding to maintain my safety and give them the truck drivers license number. On second thought I decided I should probably call the "How's my driving" people and report his driving. Lo and behold, of course he didn't have that sticker on his truck. The vehicles that need it most, could care less about what people think of their driving.
4) Large dogs that stand up in the bed of trucks, or stick their heads all the way out of vehicle windows frighten me. I fear that no one has ever explained to them as it was explained to me what could happen if you stick something out of the moving car and it gets caught on something not moving. I believe something along these lines occurred to a drunk man in Bham when his friend was driving him home one night... or maybe I saw it in a movie... hummm.... regardless, I was brought up knowing that you keep all appendages inside of moving vehicles. ALWAYS. (Just looked it up and it was in GA, back in 05. Here's the link to the story if you don't believe.)
5) On yesterday's post I made a comment about only being able to converse about the little mini's poop. I was thinking this morning that whether I'm trapped in the house or out and about, I should still have a repertoire of interesting subjects ready for discussion at any moment. Sadly I do not keep up with the news. In fact if it's not celebrity news then I'm pretty much uninterested. That's pitiful. I can tell you that Kim Kardashian made a naughty video with Ray J (Whitney Houston's current boy toy and the singer Brandi's little brother) that kind of helped put here on the celebrity map (along with her bootie) and now she's dating Reggie Bush who plays with the New Orleans Saints, but I can't tell you if it's been decided that the Democratic presidential candidate will be Hillary or Barrack. I'm thinking that I will log on to USA today and read at least 3 articles a day. Or maybe I'll subscribe to Time magazine (or at least read the one that's left in the work kitchen every week). And then I had the best thought of all. I'm going to call Liz's Jon (who reads the paper EVERYday) and tell him to tell me what's going on in the world. That's kind of killing two birds with one stone. I get the worldly haps and Jon can ease that "I miss Roz" pain that I know he feels daily. Even if his fiance is my fraternal twin with a different birthday...
That's it. Gotta get to work. ummm, really I have to go pump in my car, but that's a whole nother post. ;-)
Oh and here are a couple of pics since I've been reading more and more about people saying a post isn't a post without pics. I present to you, the most interesting person in our house:
it's been way too long. Please excuse my pitiful blogging... or lack there of. I'm back. Is anyone out there??? How about a quick 10 just to test the waters. ;-)
1) Behind is not even the word I should use to describe how I'm lacking checking off things on my to-do list. Ummm, class reunion, thank you cards, baby's blog, sending out pics to my family, oh, the list is endless. I just mailed some friends their wedding gift, and they got married in mid April.
2) Instead of using the long weekend to check things off the afore mentioned list, I got caught up on my DVR'd programs. That's something I can do when the little mini is awake or sleeping. Excuse...maybe....
3) We have an office Canoeing Day on this Friday. I'm adding this to my list as #7 of why living in FL is not sooooo bad. I'm really excited, but also trying to figure out what to wear and how I'll combat any mesquitoes or snakes that I may encounter.
4) The working mom situation has gotten a lot better. In fact that's an understatement. I'm blessed and God's given me a peace of mind even I hadn't anticipated. The little mini's in "real" daycare and she apparently likes it. And I like having something else to talk about besides her pooping schedule. ;-)
5) I have a sweet tooth that's going to be the death of me. The other day I ate pound cake for breakfast, this morn I had banana bread, and it's not unlikely for me to have popsicles as my snack of choice.
6) Somehow, in the aftermath of pregnancy, I lost my bootie. I was telling a girlfriend this morn that I watched a special on the Kardashians and I am mesmirized by Kim's bootie. I think my exact words were that I covet it. Shame.
7) I got an iTunes gift card for my bday and I still have not used it. I'm still savoring all that it COULD buy and not using it. Ridiculous. I'm using it soon. Put that on my to-do list.
8) I have an internal debate going as to whether I should take the little mini to Walmart or Sears or somewhere for some formal pics, or just set her up in the house and do them myself. I'm by no means a photographer, but then again neither are the people at Walmart...
9) I'm struggling with 10. I'm just not that interesting anymore!!!!
10) Okay how about my current favorite pic of the little mini. I'll blog again soon. And I promise to be somewhat entertaining. Well, Blogger's not letting me upload a pic. I kind of feel like my "comeback" will be a little disappointing now. ;-) Like Prince doing another tour and only performing the nasty songs no one knows. Sorry everyone, it's not me, it's Blogger.
It's my second day back at work and today is waaayyy tougher then it was yesterday. I think yesterday started with some hiccups that had my mind in another place, and I was greeted with a "welcome back" luncheon, and to be honest the whole day felt kind of fake... like work was something I was doing just to get out of the house for a moment. Today I think the reality has kicked in.
My mom's here keeping the little mini for this week to help ease me into transition so I wouldn't have to go into work AND drop her off with someone who I don't know that well (day care). I can't begin to explain how beyond helpful this has been, but last night as my sweet baby was restless and just not trying to get any shut eye, it hit me that we hadn't spent enough time together and I think she missed me. To say I missed her was an understatement. Okay... I'm done typing about this, it's going to make me cry.
So: since I last posted:
• We have successfully completed 2 car trips with baby in tow. • We've gotten over a really rough case of baby acne. • We're steadily attacking the really rough case of adult acne. • I've had 2 friends graduate with some well deserved degrees. • I grew a whole year older. • I had my hair done by a new beautician b/c my old beautician got shot in the bootie (really), but she's okay and will be back in the salon by my next appt. • I got a new phone and new service (for those who tried to call/text yesterday things didn't get worked out until last night). • I celebrated my very first Mother's Day on the receiving end of the well wishes. • I've watched enough Ellen to really miss her dancing around 3:00 • We've been on the verge of an "awake smile" to counter the ones she gives when she's sleeping. • We've started "talking" and in all that cooing, I'm pretty sure she's got some very strong opinions. • I've decided that I need a workout regimen FAST as I'm fitting into prepreg clothes just fine, but there is TONS of toning to be done. • I'm trying to figure out what to get a very special little boy who's hitting the big 01 on Thursday. • I still haven't found my Liz a dress. • I have been on the edge of insanity many times and have somehow not fallen over. • I have a friend locally. Really. I've talked to her on the phone several times, she's been over to the house a few times, and the little mini and I stopped by to visit her on Sun. Progress. • The little mini had a "girlfriend" to join her circle of "you're going to be my friend b/c my mommy and your mommy are friends" a whole 6 weeks early. And we love our little Phoeni-ni to pieces. • Nick Cannon and Mariah Carey got married. For some reason I'm obsessed with how very wrong this seems. I don't know why, but I can't even begin to make them work as a couple in my mind... but who am I? (Still doesn't it seem a bit odd to you too???)
Very random, but my mind's all over the place. Mostly jumping between "I can do this work thing" and "Grab your work bag and run". ;-) Anywho, just wanted to let everyone know that we're alive and kicking over this way. I should be a little more productive in blogging and emailing in the fact that sitting at this desk was always the perfect time for me to get those things done. hehehe I know you're thinking, "so when do you work??"... don't worry about that.
Who's running things around here is one of those proverbial questions that has a rotating answer. Lately the little mini, has been flexing a negotiating muscle I didn't even know she had.
Me: Okay little one, it's 4am and after this feeding and changing, you're getting back in your cradle. (We try not to put her in the "big people" bed until KJ's leaving for work, normally the 6 or 7am feeding) Little Mini: What if when you lay me down to sleep I stir for about 10 mins and then pee all over my bed... then can I get in the big people bed?
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Me: Alrighty little one, the right b**b is as good as the left so let's be sure to eat off of both so that Momma's not all lopsided. Little Mini: How about I only eat off the left and just rest my chin on the right and make the "Ewww, that's gross, what are you trying to do" face at you. Pump or be lopsided lady.
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Me: I will change the poopie diaper and get the stink off of you if you promise that after that we're coming back to bed for our morning nap. Little Mini: Deal.
Geez Louise this kiddo has a will like no other! hehehe, but I won out in the end, so let me let you all go so that I can catch her on this nap, just in case she tries to wake up with more demands. ;)
Oh and a few have inquired: There's no blog up and running for her yet. Key words "up and running". I'm tweaking a few things and you know I'm slow as molasses in the winter time.
I always said from the beginning that the little mini would be our trial and error baby. Oh the curse of being the first. ;-) SO I thought I'd post of a few of the trial and errors we've incurred so far, and not just with her, some are these are general dos and don'ts that I'm running into daily.
1) Walking a fussy baby around at night is considering "spoiling them". Yep. As newbies you try anything to keep the fussing to a minimum and the only reason we nipped this habit in the bud quickly is because walking around at 2am off and on for an hour and a half was kicking my bootie. Lesson learned.
2) As she's gotten bigger, she eats more (hindsight makes me say, duh). The fussiness we thought was just her fighting sleep was really her saying, "Look peps, you're starving me!" sidebar: I've heard that it's really hard to overfeed a breastfeed baby.
3) The sudden tolerance I had to cheese was only a pregnancy thing. I tested it out when I made a breakfast casserole loaded with cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, and pepper jack), and not even 20 min later my stomach had that old familiar rumble. Cheese is a don't.
4) We can't be everywhere for everything. This was a tough lesson for me but a valuable one. This past weekend we had house guests Friday and Saturday, had plans to go to a family event on Sunday, and I was trying to fly to NC for my uncle's funeral Sun night. We love having guests (really we do says the woman who's been house bound for 4 weeks now), but when you have guests, you're up at night with a new baby (trying to keep her from waking everyone) and you're up in the day trying to entertain. It can be exhausting. We overslept on Sun missing the family event, and plane tickets were outrageous which nipped my hair-brain thoughts of jetting home for the funeral. Everyone keeps giving us the out of "oh you've got a new baby" and FINALLY I'm okay with taking it.
5) Sleeping when she sleeps really is the best advice. Why was I so hard-headed to follow? Alas this post will be short as the little mini is 30 min ahead of me in the sleep game.
6) Put mail in the mailbox the night before if it MUST go out the next day. I believe postal pep in my area run between 4am and 11am. really.
7) Return missed calls as soon as possible. I'm trying. I've realized that sometimes without realizing it, you need to hear someone's voice, and they need to hear yours too. Casing point, I've talked to my grandmother twice within the past couple of weeks.
8) Leona Lewis and Mariah Carey are definite dos! I believe both cds are going to be "don't skip a single song" good. If you've got one or the other, let me know what you think. I saw Leona on Ellen and Mariah on Oprah, ahh, the joys of daytime tv.
9) My husband is really the best daddy ever, which in turn beefs him up in the husband dept too. It's a vicious cycle. ;-) Marrying him was definitely a do (one that I'd do over and over and over even on the days when he drives me bonkers).
10) Without fail, as soon as you change just a pee-pee diaper, the new diaper will be full of poop in less than a min. And I'm still thinking of/working on going to cloth after we use up all of our freebie diapers. Cloth diapers for the sake of budget... a do?
Today is Colleen's b-day! Let me know how the big 28 is treating you girlie and if all is well I'll take the plunge with you soon. ;-)
Also on this weeks agenda:
We're going to use this stroller to get some fresh air in the little mini. We're going to get her used to the carseat by touring around our little city and just "discovering" stuff. We're going to design her birth announcements using photos from my little attempt at a photoshoot on yesterday (Big Lots has some of the best accessories). We're going to go to Lowe's to get a bookself to house her ever growing book collection (Thank you so much Dionne for the fantastic books you sent!) We're going to go by and meet her daycare provider (and I've instructed her over and over that if she does not like this lady then she is to let me know and will nix the whole "momma's gotta work" thing) ;-)
I'll keep you all posted. Okay peps I've got some sleeping to do! Happy Tuesday!
Okay, when you have no schedule, there is really no way to measure the time. That's my excuse for being gone for so long. Are you buying it???
So we're good. Here's a few things from my end.
1) The little mini's been here 3 weeks and I think we're getting the hang of this parenting thing. 2) I have stacks and piles of paperwork to sort thru and being cooped up in the house, this should have already been done... 3) I have to help my best friend find her casual but chic Caribbean wedding dress. Again, I don't know where time has gone as I planned on knocking this out my first week of maternity leave. 4) My dear Colleen came to visit on Monday and I'm so thankful that she loves us enough to make that drive. I don't know if I'll ever be able to fully express how her presence help boost my "adult sanity" for the week. 5) How is it that I have 3 baskets of laundry to fold when I seriously rotate between the same comfy tshirts and comfy pants? Where did the rest of the clothes come from (insert husband and daughter here)?? 6) I'm packing up maternity clothes THIS WEEK. There, I typed it, so of course it will happen. 7) We're traveling to KJ's parents' on Sunday (they've got a big family event) and I'm a little nervous about parenting outside of the walls of our house. Strange huh? 8) Some good friends of ours are coming to visit Fri and Sat. It's her birthday and I'm trying to figure out a great present to get from one of the 3 stores in our little city. Seriously, I need a Target. 9) I need to make a hair appt something awful. Oh and while I'm at it, my footsies could use some attention too... 10) Having a baby in the spring while living 20 minutes from the beach, leaves very little time to get this bod back to bathing suit ready condition... and I'm talking immodest suits, sisters... hehehe 11) I'm getting a little better at multitasking, but still not good enough to really brag about it. 12) I have a stack of thank you cards to write and the fact that I've waited so long is now becoming ridiculous and embarrassing. 13) Don't even get me started on where I am with birth announcements... 14) I miss the soap opera that is work, but I wish I could go in and work my own hours. I'd go, eat breakfast, get caught up with everyone, design one or two packages, and then come on home. Let's not talk about going back yet, I'm kind of on the fence about it all. 15) When I'm up for the 2:30am feeding, I sit in the living room so not to wake up KJ and I've developed some very odd paranoia about somebody breaking down our front door. I blame the movie No Country for Old Men. 16) Speaking of KJ he has been way beyond excellent as a daddy and a husband. He changes diapers, he burps, he's even pulled a few all-nighters so that I could get a full night's rest. We're adding a whole new element to this love thing. ;-) 17) Disregard the craziness going on with my layout. I did the whole update my template thing and now a few things are all wonky (I got this word from Erin and I loooovvveee it and use it often as it accurately describes quite a few things these days) 18) I'm just rambling away, can you tell I miss you all.
...on Thursday. So I've been a little tied up. ;-) The little mini is doing superb. A little KJ, that's what she is. She sleeps for 4 hour stretches thru just about any noise, nurses quick and hard (like she's scared that I'll put them up and not offer again), and wants to see everything when she's awake and does a cute half smile when she sleeps. We're completely in love. Now here's my 10.
1) Dealing with customer service from my couch stinks. On my "I hope to never deal with you again list" is Regions Bank (still working out stuff from the car accident... from OCTOBER!!!) and Walmart Vision Center (stop holding my contacts hostage!!).
2) The movie Atonement starts slow, but is kinda good. I wouldn't have given it 4 stars, but it'll definitely tickle your mind.
3) When KJ's in charge of groceries, he comes back with the best snacks. The things that I tend not to buy, like oatmeal cakes, donut sticks, and gingerbread men cookies. Yum.
4) I'm becoming quite a professional phone-tagger. I tend to leave a lot of messages and then miss the return calls. Seriously, don't give up on me folks.
5) I whipped out the ole juicer and created white/purple grape juice, apple/pear juice, and tangerine/orange juice. A gentleman from church brought us a huge fruit basket that even I couldn't finish off. So far, all my creations have been wonderful... I just need to find a defrother so that the juice will appeal more to the masses (and by masses I mean KJ).
6) The movie, No Country for Old Men, is psycho. Whoever the main actor is, he plays the role to a tee. So good that just his face was enough to make me cover my eyes. KJ recommends this movie. Me, I'm going for happier movies from here on out.
7) I'm having to practice multi-tasking. I have a bad tendency of dividing my attention up unevenly, which is why I've nursed my poor child's neck and ear more times than I'd like to admit.
8) I've discovered that there is no limit to the amount of HGTV that I can watch.
9) My most comfy pants have all come from Colleen. The pink pair she gave me when she got married (bride's maid gift) and the black pair she gave me when I got married. That girl has a knack for finding the most comfy soft clothes ever.
10) Who am I kidding, you all are only checking in to get word on the mini. hehehe Nope, her site's not up yet, but it's coming. In the mean time, here are a few recent pics and I'm going to try and load a little video.
that she would come early??? Hello, that's definitely a trait from KJ's side. ;-) She wasn't due til the 27th, but on the 22nd God sent us one of His very best.
Our little mini: born March 22, 2008 5:27pm 6lbs, 1oz 20in
*I'm still planning on creating her own little blog for family and friends to check in on. Slowly but surely, I'm getting there. As I mentioned before, on this blog and comments she will be referred to as the little mini (we're protective like that). Thanks for understanding.
• I'm going to Walmart by 11:30 (it's 10:30 now) to a) pick up some much needed groceries b) pick up some items needed for the still not packed labor bag c) walk around the entire store to convince the little mini how fun it would be to come out sooner than later
• Come home and pack the aforementioned labor bag as I have a bet going with KJ that it will be sitting by the door by the time he gets off work. (And I hate losing a bet to KJ, he's such a sore winner)
• Making spaghetti or stuffed shells for dinner. May do stuffed shells just to be fancy.
• Do a little adult laundry
• Nap
• Do a little mini laundry
I'm thinking that by the time the above is accomplished it will be around 5:00pm. Full day's "work".
First and foremost, I must get out of the bed, shower, and comb my hair for this is what the first day of maternity leave looks like.
I'm outie, I gotta go have a baby! hehehe That's what I've been telling everyone at work. Oh my last day. Today. I'll be doing more important things soon and it's a good feeling to pack up the ole office for a sec and tell them, "Holla! I've got a life to live!"
So far we've celebrated with donuts, tarts and streamers which my coworkers brought in. I jokingly told them that it looks like they're saying, good riddance, but I'm pretty sure they're gonna miss me a little. Shoot, if not for the pure fact that we're on the brink of the busy season and the number of work horses is being cut back. hehehe
Anywho, I managed to crawl out of bed way late this morning to make it in to work a little earlier than I normally do - 8:07 (don't know how this happened) and I'm eagerly tying up lose ends b/c I can honestly say that I may not be answering calls that come from this number once I leave. I like my job, but I'm liking the thought of staying in comfy clothes and keeping the house reasonably straight and napping as I see fit, a little more at the moment. I keep telling myself that it's a little ridiculous to be so excited about a vacation which is really nowhere near a vacation b/c on the agenda is the probable worst pain I'll ever experience ever, but the souvenir from it all is what makes it exciting right. Nutso that I'm about to be someone's mom. Nutso.
So today we're rocking out to Elton John (my coworker and his girlfriend are going to his concert this weekend. I'm trying to find him some sparkly purple sunglasses) going about business as usual. Except for the donuts... and at 4:50 we're going to blast this song thru the intercom and I'm going to make a lap around the office, Rocky style.
You know... just to say peace out and word to yo moms.
Happy Happy Friday all! Oh and no worries I'll be keeping you posted and checking on you from our lovely couch verses this office chair, but the blogging will not stop. Except for maybe when the labor starts... ;-)
************EDITED TO ADD************* Okay and My Colleen and My Liz just sent me the most beautiful flowers!!! You two are seriously the bestest! I haven't even had a baby, I'm just prepping for the leave. ;-) The funny part is that the florist local to my job is notorious for being deaf so the card says "Enjoy You Paternity Leave!" hehehe I will ladies, I will.
