We don't like the idea of lying to our children. This applies to all aspects of our parenting, but it especially came up recently with the talk of Santa flying through the sky on reindeer. We don't necessarily have a problem with the idea of Santa, but we've felt no need to mention him. He's not real, nor is he the reason we celebrate. I didn't think this would cause any problems. How could it? It's not like I told my son about Santa and then proceeded to tell him that Santa wasn't real. Now that, I could see that bring problematic. I could just see my all-knowing three-year old prancing around telling other kids they were wrong about Santa. That would cause an argument or two in the playgroups.... But, like I said, I didn't do that. I figured we'd just pass by the Holiday season without much mention of the big guy in the red suit.
What I didn't count on was other people talking to my son about Santa. Boy was I shocked the first time someone asked my son, "So, are you excited about Santa coming?"! My poor son turned to me with a look of utter confusion and just hid under my legs. I'm sure he must have thought that person mistook him for someone else--someone else who might have had family visiting....maybe a member of the family named "Santa." Hmmmm..... maybe something like that.
Then it happened again and again. Once, while at the checkout at CVS, a woman asked him, "Are you ready for Santa?" And my son smiled wide with a mischievous grin, "not quite......!" At that point, I think it had become a game to him. I finally asked him last night, "who's Santa?" To this, he had only one reply: "I don't know."
I'm not sure how widespread it is, but at least here in our little town, Santa sure seems to be a big part of the culture. I hadn't realized that before, but I certainly know it now. I had a short talk with my son about things people think of when they talk about Santa. To be honest, I'm not sure that he really cared. Seems like maybe he just loved all the attention and questions, regardless of whatever the people might have been talking about. I guess I shouldn't be surprised. He is a three year old after all. What's more important--understanding life, or making sure it revolves around you?
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Santa
We don't like the idea of lying to our children. This applies to all aspects of our parenting, but it especially came up recently with the talk of Santa flying through the sky on reindeer. We don't necessarily have a problem with the idea of Santa, but we've felt no need to mention him. He's not real, nor is he the reason we celebrate. I didn't think this would cause any problems. How could it? It's not like I told my son about Santa and then proceeded to tell him that Santa wasn't real. Now that, I could see that bring problematic. I could just see my all-knowing three-year old prancing around telling other kids they were wrong about Santa. That would cause an argument or two in the playgroups.... But, like I said, I didn't do that. I figured we'd just pass by the Holiday season without much mention of the big guy in the red suit.
What I didn't count on was other people talking to my son about Santa. Boy was I shocked the first time someone asked my son, "So, are you excited about Santa coming?"! My poor son turned to me with a look of utter confusion and just hid under my legs. I'm sure he must have thought that person mistook him for someone else--someone else who might have had family visiting....maybe a member of the family named "Santa." Hmmmm..... maybe something like that.
Then it happened again and again. Once, while at the checkout at CVS, a woman asked him, "Are you ready for Santa?" And my son smiled wide with a mischievous grin, "not quite......!" At that point, I think it had become a game to him. I finally asked him last night, "who's Santa?" To this, he had only one reply: "I don't know."
I'm not sure how widespread it is, but at least here in our little town, Santa sure seems to be a big part of the culture. I hadn't realized that before, but I certainly know it now. I had a short talk with my son about things people think of when they talk about Santa. To be honest, I'm not sure that he really cared. Seems like maybe he just loved all the attention and questions, regardless of whatever the people might have been talking about. I guess I shouldn't be surprised. He is a three year old after all. What's more important--understanding life, or making sure it revolves around you?
What I didn't count on was other people talking to my son about Santa. Boy was I shocked the first time someone asked my son, "So, are you excited about Santa coming?"! My poor son turned to me with a look of utter confusion and just hid under my legs. I'm sure he must have thought that person mistook him for someone else--someone else who might have had family visiting....maybe a member of the family named "Santa." Hmmmm..... maybe something like that.
Then it happened again and again. Once, while at the checkout at CVS, a woman asked him, "Are you ready for Santa?" And my son smiled wide with a mischievous grin, "not quite......!" At that point, I think it had become a game to him. I finally asked him last night, "who's Santa?" To this, he had only one reply: "I don't know."
I'm not sure how widespread it is, but at least here in our little town, Santa sure seems to be a big part of the culture. I hadn't realized that before, but I certainly know it now. I had a short talk with my son about things people think of when they talk about Santa. To be honest, I'm not sure that he really cared. Seems like maybe he just loved all the attention and questions, regardless of whatever the people might have been talking about. I guess I shouldn't be surprised. He is a three year old after all. What's more important--understanding life, or making sure it revolves around you?
Monday, December 20, 2010
Sugar Cookies!
I made it my goal to find that "one" sugar cookie recipe that would be fit for all my needs. I'd tried many recipes in the past, and never could find just the right one. There were ones that I found easy to cut out but lacking in taste. Others were delicious but would never look beautiful. I did come across some recipes that both had a good taste and look, but they still didn't seem just perfect.
Alas! I have come upon the most perfectest of perfect sugar cookies recipe. If you like cookies that are thick and moist, this recipe is for you! These are not thin and crispy, so if those are the kind of cookies you like.... well, you should change your taste. These cookies are far superior to your thin and crispy biscuits.
I came across this sugar cookie recipe at allrecipes.com, but many of the reviewers thought the cookie was too bland. I liked the sound of the recipe, but wanted to fix the taste issue. There were a couple of ideas on the site, but I had made cookies weeks ago that used almond paste and loved the result. I still had half the can left, so I decided to add it to the recipe at allrecipes.com. The result? FANTASTIC!
The cookies were super easy to cut out (almond paste makes a helpful glue) and puffed up just right in the oven. They also tasted GREAT! They were delicious with or without icing. The perfect sugar cookie.
My three year old even helped with the decorating. I put icing on the cookies and he added decorations on top. It was so easy and he loved it. And when he wanted to be artistic with the icing, I put a little pile on the plate and gave him a toothpick. He used the toothpick like a paintbrush and went wild. So, go ahead! Make something delicious at your house, and get everyone involved! The creative process is fun, and so is the consumption process when you're done!
Here's what the recipe looks like when you add the almond paste:
Alas! I have come upon the most perfectest of perfect sugar cookies recipe. If you like cookies that are thick and moist, this recipe is for you! These are not thin and crispy, so if those are the kind of cookies you like.... well, you should change your taste. These cookies are far superior to your thin and crispy biscuits.
I came across this sugar cookie recipe at allrecipes.com, but many of the reviewers thought the cookie was too bland. I liked the sound of the recipe, but wanted to fix the taste issue. There were a couple of ideas on the site, but I had made cookies weeks ago that used almond paste and loved the result. I still had half the can left, so I decided to add it to the recipe at allrecipes.com. The result? FANTASTIC!
The cookies were super easy to cut out (almond paste makes a helpful glue) and puffed up just right in the oven. They also tasted GREAT! They were delicious with or without icing. The perfect sugar cookie.
My three year old even helped with the decorating. I put icing on the cookies and he added decorations on top. It was so easy and he loved it. And when he wanted to be artistic with the icing, I put a little pile on the plate and gave him a toothpick. He used the toothpick like a paintbrush and went wild. So, go ahead! Make something delicious at your house, and get everyone involved! The creative process is fun, and so is the consumption process when you're done!
Here's what the recipe looks like when you add the almond paste:
Ingredients
Directions
This is my son putting M&M wheels on his train.
This train was a cooperative effort--the engine was made by our 15 year old neighbor, the first car by my 3 year old son, and the last car by our 14 year old neighbor.
I joined in the fun too, though, not until everyone else had gone. I made a cookie to look like my husband--he's holding it here. :)
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Christmas for My Son
My three year old seems to be very confused about Christmas. Is it a day? A time? A thing? To be accurate, he doesn't actually think he's confused. I'm the one who thinks he's confused.
Last year, a neighbor bequeathed a large battery-operated train to us as they no longer had need of it. My son was overjoyed. I have dozens of pictures of him sitting in the middle of the tracks, on his belly, his grin from ear to ear, intently watching the train go around and around. We called it the Christmas Train, as it spent most of its time circling the Christmas Tree. We also called it the Christmas train because we were only going to get it out once a year--around Christmas.
So, at my son heard talk of Christmas coming, even in the beginning of November, he pleaded for us to get out the Christmas train. Finally, last Saturday, we purchased a tree and got out the train. He's played with it every day.
I mention this story because I think it's paved the way for my son's confusion about Christmas. If I were to use an example of another adjective (other than Christmas), I could say that I am wearing a blue shirt. My shirt is blue. So, if we were to replace the adjective of color to the adjective of Christmas, my shirt would be Christmas. To my son, the train is Christmas.
My mother recently sent a box full of present for the kids; I have placed them all under the tree. This morning, I said something to my son about the presents under the tree. "What presents?" he exclaimed. "Those aren't presents, those are Christmas!" And as for opening those presents, despite anything I say to the contrary, he believes he will get to open them "when Christmas is over." I am starting to see it the way he does.... that these trappings are Christmas. And, as for the presents, when we are done with the trappings as they are, then we may do something else with them (in this instance, open them).
To be honest, I'm not sure he's all that wrong. I mean, as far as the non-spiritual aspects of Christmas, it is definitely the trappings that I think of when I think of the season--trees, red and green decorations, presents, cookies and parties. Without them, would it be Christmas? (Again, I am referencing "Christmas" as a season--I'm not talking here about "Christmas" as a remembrance of our Savior's birth.)
Well, it's something to think about. :)
Last year, a neighbor bequeathed a large battery-operated train to us as they no longer had need of it. My son was overjoyed. I have dozens of pictures of him sitting in the middle of the tracks, on his belly, his grin from ear to ear, intently watching the train go around and around. We called it the Christmas Train, as it spent most of its time circling the Christmas Tree. We also called it the Christmas train because we were only going to get it out once a year--around Christmas.
So, at my son heard talk of Christmas coming, even in the beginning of November, he pleaded for us to get out the Christmas train. Finally, last Saturday, we purchased a tree and got out the train. He's played with it every day.
I mention this story because I think it's paved the way for my son's confusion about Christmas. If I were to use an example of another adjective (other than Christmas), I could say that I am wearing a blue shirt. My shirt is blue. So, if we were to replace the adjective of color to the adjective of Christmas, my shirt would be Christmas. To my son, the train is Christmas.
My mother recently sent a box full of present for the kids; I have placed them all under the tree. This morning, I said something to my son about the presents under the tree. "What presents?" he exclaimed. "Those aren't presents, those are Christmas!" And as for opening those presents, despite anything I say to the contrary, he believes he will get to open them "when Christmas is over." I am starting to see it the way he does.... that these trappings are Christmas. And, as for the presents, when we are done with the trappings as they are, then we may do something else with them (in this instance, open them).
To be honest, I'm not sure he's all that wrong. I mean, as far as the non-spiritual aspects of Christmas, it is definitely the trappings that I think of when I think of the season--trees, red and green decorations, presents, cookies and parties. Without them, would it be Christmas? (Again, I am referencing "Christmas" as a season--I'm not talking here about "Christmas" as a remembrance of our Savior's birth.)
Well, it's something to think about. :)
Sunday, December 12, 2010
On the Phone
Growing up, I hated calling people for the first time. I even hated calling a friend when it was likely someone besides that friend would answer the phone. At home, I ran from the phone when it started to ring. I'd rather hear it ring ten times than answer it. This was back in the day before Caller ID. What a brilliant, brilliant invention, Caller ID. I am very thankful for it--on a daily basis.
I'm not sure the reason for my phone-phobia, but there is still some of it lingering today. In fact, it wasn't until I had to start calling hospitals and doctors all the time that I started to get better about the phone. My son's medical condition pushed me to start doing what I hated. But through the challenge, I grew. Isn't that how it happens sometimes?
Though, like I said, there is still some phone-phobia lingering. And this weekend, my phone-phobia nerves were pushed to their limits. I had offered to help a local non-profit by making calls for them. They were in desperate need of volunteers, and I really like helping out. I just had to call 50 families to give them some information on an upcoming event that they were scheduled to attend. No problem. While I figured it'd take a while to call all the families, I didn't expect it to be quite so overwhelming for me. Besides, I was calling them with very exciting news.
Most of these people didn't answer the phone when I called. A similarly large number of them didn't have voicemail. At first, I didn't think this would be a problem; I would just call them later. But what happened instead was a mystery to me. Suddenly, my phone was ringing...
Me: "Hello?"
Person A: "Hello."
Me: "......... ummmmm.... yes. Hello." <AHHHHH!! I'm freaking out!! Stop! Don't do this to me! I'm going to hang up!>
Person A: "You called me."
Me: <trying desperately to hold it together> "Riiiiiight.... I probably did call you. Could you please tell me your name?"
Person A: <shocked that I would have to ask for their name> <pause> <gives me his name>
Me: <glad to have a name, searching through papers while my mind spins because my stress level is through the ROOF> "Right, well, let me just find your information here so I can let you know what's going on....."
At that point, it generally took me the entire conversation to calm down after the trauma. And this happened over and over again. You might think I'd get used to it. But I didn't. How could I?!?! THE STRESS!! Wow. I mean, seriously, it took all that was in me not to hang up on them right after the first awkward "hello." Don't these people know they should at least say their NAME when they call someone!! EEK! Oh dear.... oh dear.... So anxiety producing....!
Obviously, I am not cut out for this type of work. Lesson learned. The hard way. I think we know one kind of volunteer work that I won't be volunteering to do in the near future.
I'm not sure the reason for my phone-phobia, but there is still some of it lingering today. In fact, it wasn't until I had to start calling hospitals and doctors all the time that I started to get better about the phone. My son's medical condition pushed me to start doing what I hated. But through the challenge, I grew. Isn't that how it happens sometimes?
Though, like I said, there is still some phone-phobia lingering. And this weekend, my phone-phobia nerves were pushed to their limits. I had offered to help a local non-profit by making calls for them. They were in desperate need of volunteers, and I really like helping out. I just had to call 50 families to give them some information on an upcoming event that they were scheduled to attend. No problem. While I figured it'd take a while to call all the families, I didn't expect it to be quite so overwhelming for me. Besides, I was calling them with very exciting news.
Most of these people didn't answer the phone when I called. A similarly large number of them didn't have voicemail. At first, I didn't think this would be a problem; I would just call them later. But what happened instead was a mystery to me. Suddenly, my phone was ringing...
Me: "Hello?"
Person A: "Hello."
Me: "......... ummmmm.... yes. Hello." <AHHHHH!! I'm freaking out!! Stop! Don't do this to me! I'm going to hang up!>
Person A: "You called me."
Me: <trying desperately to hold it together> "Riiiiiight.... I probably did call you. Could you please tell me your name?"
Person A: <shocked that I would have to ask for their name> <pause> <gives me his name>
Me: <glad to have a name, searching through papers while my mind spins because my stress level is through the ROOF> "Right, well, let me just find your information here so I can let you know what's going on....."
At that point, it generally took me the entire conversation to calm down after the trauma. And this happened over and over again. You might think I'd get used to it. But I didn't. How could I?!?! THE STRESS!! Wow. I mean, seriously, it took all that was in me not to hang up on them right after the first awkward "hello." Don't these people know they should at least say their NAME when they call someone!! EEK! Oh dear.... oh dear.... So anxiety producing....!
Obviously, I am not cut out for this type of work. Lesson learned. The hard way. I think we know one kind of volunteer work that I won't be volunteering to do in the near future.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
The key to having a great party
I love love love having people over. Our house isn't big or gorgeous, and I certainly don't keep it spotlessly clean. But, that doesn't keep me from inviting people over every chance I get.
Today I had my first Pampered Chef party, and I think it went pretty well. It definitely got me motivated to have another holiday party next year--but I'm thinking maybe I'll do a "caroling" party instead. Who knows; really, I have an entire year to decide. No rush!
Since my party went so well, I figured I'd let you guys in on a little secret to party success. Some of my guests were wondering how I could have such an amazing array of food and yet have two small children to take care of during the week (and a husband too, don't forget!). Here it is (shhhh, don't tell....):
PLAN, PLAN, PLAN!
I made sure to organize everything from what dishes I would prepare to what days I would prepare them to what time I should set them out on the table the day of the party. Tuesday I made caramel chex mix. Wednesday I got the pomegranate ready. Thursday I made egg nog pie. Friday I went grocery shopping for the rest of the ingredients I needed and also made cream cheese mints. Saturday I made brownies (for the show) and pumpkin mousse. I chopped all the veggies for the veggie tray. I also took a couple of minutes to make some holiday-themed lanterns. (Remember these lanterns? So versatile!) Sunday, I got some mulled cider ready in the crock pot hours before the party, and quick put together some "pigs in a blanket." Tada! That's it!
Here's some of what I made:
Fudgy Brownies
Pumpkin Mousse
Cream Cheese Mints
Pigs in a Blanket
Okay, go to it! Plan your own party and HAVE FUN! :D
Today I had my first Pampered Chef party, and I think it went pretty well. It definitely got me motivated to have another holiday party next year--but I'm thinking maybe I'll do a "caroling" party instead. Who knows; really, I have an entire year to decide. No rush!
Since my party went so well, I figured I'd let you guys in on a little secret to party success. Some of my guests were wondering how I could have such an amazing array of food and yet have two small children to take care of during the week (and a husband too, don't forget!). Here it is (shhhh, don't tell....):
PLAN, PLAN, PLAN!
I made sure to organize everything from what dishes I would prepare to what days I would prepare them to what time I should set them out on the table the day of the party. Tuesday I made caramel chex mix. Wednesday I got the pomegranate ready. Thursday I made egg nog pie. Friday I went grocery shopping for the rest of the ingredients I needed and also made cream cheese mints. Saturday I made brownies (for the show) and pumpkin mousse. I chopped all the veggies for the veggie tray. I also took a couple of minutes to make some holiday-themed lanterns. (Remember these lanterns? So versatile!) Sunday, I got some mulled cider ready in the crock pot hours before the party, and quick put together some "pigs in a blanket." Tada! That's it!
Here's some of what I made:
Fudgy Brownies
Pumpkin Mousse
Cream Cheese Mints
Pigs in a Blanket
Okay, go to it! Plan your own party and HAVE FUN! :D
Pumpkin Mousse
Egg Nog Pie
Veggies and Pomegranate
Caramel Chex Mix, Cream Cheese Mints and Lanterns
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
5 reasons snow is fantastic!
I'm very excited that it's December. Why? Because the chances of snow increase dramatically at this point in the year! At least.... in Indiana. If I lived in Ecuador, this wouldn't be the case. But as it is, I've never even set foot in Ecuador. So the point is moot.
There are those among you who shake your head at me despairingly. Those of you who wonder how I could even say such a thing. Those of you who, simply put, do not like the snow. But my question is this: do you truly hate snow? Or is it the effect of the snow? While it may seem difficult to separate the snow from the effect it has on our lives, I would ask you to consider doing just that.... Think for a moment about just snow....
1. It's white. There are very few things that we see either falling from the sky or growing up from the ground that are white. It is a rarity. White is often considered the color of purity.
2. It has a unique shape. Have you ever seen anything quite like a snowflake? Do you remember ever looking down at your mitten when you were a child, catching that fleeting glimpse of a snowflake's whole form before it began to melt away? It's breathtaking.
3. It's light; it blows with the wind. It almost seems unreal to watch, the way it swirls and sways. Almost like each snowflake was a little fairy fluttering her wings this way and that.
4. It's freezing. Just hear me out on this one. Think of water--rain--how it falls and then pools. It collects in puddles and leaves other areas almost untouched. Snow, because of it's cold nature, can cover the ground more neatly. When it snows, you can look around and see the whole ground covered in white. At least, the possibility is there..... sometimes the snow fairies would rather blow in the wind instead.
5. It glistens. I mean, seriously; I can't think of any other type of weather event that makes everything look quite so amazing.
See, I told you. Snow is fantastic. I know you're nodding your head right now.
There are those among you who shake your head at me despairingly. Those of you who wonder how I could even say such a thing. Those of you who, simply put, do not like the snow. But my question is this: do you truly hate snow? Or is it the effect of the snow? While it may seem difficult to separate the snow from the effect it has on our lives, I would ask you to consider doing just that.... Think for a moment about just snow....
1. It's white. There are very few things that we see either falling from the sky or growing up from the ground that are white. It is a rarity. White is often considered the color of purity.
2. It has a unique shape. Have you ever seen anything quite like a snowflake? Do you remember ever looking down at your mitten when you were a child, catching that fleeting glimpse of a snowflake's whole form before it began to melt away? It's breathtaking.
3. It's light; it blows with the wind. It almost seems unreal to watch, the way it swirls and sways. Almost like each snowflake was a little fairy fluttering her wings this way and that.
4. It's freezing. Just hear me out on this one. Think of water--rain--how it falls and then pools. It collects in puddles and leaves other areas almost untouched. Snow, because of it's cold nature, can cover the ground more neatly. When it snows, you can look around and see the whole ground covered in white. At least, the possibility is there..... sometimes the snow fairies would rather blow in the wind instead.
5. It glistens. I mean, seriously; I can't think of any other type of weather event that makes everything look quite so amazing.
See, I told you. Snow is fantastic. I know you're nodding your head right now.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Children Left To Themselves
In general, I think it's true that with every new season of our lives, we see life with a new pair of lenses. Certainly becoming a parent has opened my eyes to many a reality I never noticed before. This Thanksgiving, I realized the wonderful benefit of family gatherings. I'm not sure if I had never noticed it before, or had merely never taken advantage of it, but this Thanksgiving, I realized how many potential babysitters there were in one enclosed space. It was like any member of the family could have had a bulls-eye taped to his/her back, and I could aim my child directly for the center.
This year, I was more than happy to let other people help watch my children while I enjoyed adult conversation or entertaining games. I sadly wasn't able to take advantage of this opportunity as much as I wanted, since my 3 year old was very sick and definitely needed mommy-care. But in those few-and-far-between moments when he was well enough that I could hand him off, I did. Eagerly.
This is a scenario played out in many a home with many a parent, I am sure. And the only real problem with this wonderful childcare solution is that while loving, the family member with the bulls-eye on his back never feels completely responsible for the child. So, the child can potentially be passed from one family member to the other. Or, the child can simply be left to fend for himself.
There are those children who don't like fending for themselves, and so will find another playmate and/or comforter whenever they find themselves alone. But there are other children who find it perfectly acceptable to fend for themselves; in fact, they sometimes prefer it.
In our family gathering this past Thanksgiving, we had an opportunity to observe both. Or at least, we saw the aftermath. My 3 year old is very social and falls into the first category--he always wants someone around. So, once left alone without an adult, he found a playmate. Another four year old. Now, this four year olds character fits more aptly in the second category--he feels perfectly fine fending for himself.
We can only piece together the information of what truly happened during their time spent together based on the interesting insights they have, and, of course, the noticeable physical devastation that occurred. You see, where there had been a collection of untouched, large, home-grown pumpkins and squash, there were just remnants of home-grown pumpkins and squash. Some pieces were still fairly intact with only a few lines, as if someone had been attempting to draw faces into them. Others were truly marred, with holes so large that you could see straight into the innards of the thing itself. And sitting only a couple feet away from the orange and green mess, was a hatchet. It was innocently lying on the floor, a reminder that it was useless unless wielded by a person. From the accounts of those present (only my son and the other 4 year old boy), it was the four year old who wielded the hatchet. My son tells me that the boy was just making jack-o-lanterns. Now that is a boy who is perfectly content to be on his own.
I don't think this story will make me any less apt to hand my child off when I'm around a whole bunch of family. That's just too good a thing to pass up. Maybe, though, it will motivate me to check the surrounding area to make sure there are no sharp, dangerous materials hiding nearby.... We'll see. For now, all I can say is that this Thanksgiving, I had one more thing to be thankful for. Praise the Lord that it was only squash and pumpkins that were cut into: not anything, or anyONE, else!
Monday, November 22, 2010
Being Thankful
In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I thought I would write a post about something for which I'm especially thankful. To be honest, the first thing that came to mind is our upstairs bathroom. This is something that I thank God for daily. Now please, don't be offended. Give me a chance to explain myself.
When my smarty-pants husband and I first got married, we were living in a small one-bedroom apartment in Cambridge, Massachusetts. While I am thankful that he was smart enough to get paid to go to school and not the other way around, I must say that the sum he was getting paid for his smarts wasn't all that amazing. So, we rented an apartment that was on the very low end of the price range in the area. At a mere $900 a month, plus utilities and laundry, it was a steal. But of course, there is a reason it cost a mere $900 a month. The apartment was situated in the basement of a six-unit building. The floor was all hard, cold tile. The heat was pumped through vents at the top of the apartment--enabling us to spend a lot of money to heat the apartment above us. I am sure they were very thankful for our help in subsidizing their heating bills. One of our biggest difficulties in the winter was that the pipes in the bathroom were too close to the outside walls. Every time the temperatures would drop outside (which happened often, of course, it being New England and all), our pipes would freeze. Thankfully, this only applied to the toilet and the sink, not the bathtub. But, it meant that we had to wash our hands in the tub, and then manually refill the toilet water.... Ahh, the life of young newlyweds in the city.
The next winter, we had a small child and after just a few weeks of this, I had more than enough. Finally, someone came to put in some insulation between the pipes and the outside wall. The bathroom itself (and the rest of the apartment) was still ridiculously cold. But at least we didn't have to manually refill the toilet water anymore. Living in luxury.
It was four years ago that we spent our winter filling and refilling a bucket from our tub. I won't ever forget it. Every year when the temperatures drop and winter creeps into the air, I am thankful that we won't be spending our time doing that again. And this year, we even figured out a way to let the temperature get hotter in the shower! Maybe I won't actually have to put an electric heater in there to keep from shivering. I'll tell you what, working plumbing and hot water are definitely big things to be thankful for.
When my smarty-pants husband and I first got married, we were living in a small one-bedroom apartment in Cambridge, Massachusetts. While I am thankful that he was smart enough to get paid to go to school and not the other way around, I must say that the sum he was getting paid for his smarts wasn't all that amazing. So, we rented an apartment that was on the very low end of the price range in the area. At a mere $900 a month, plus utilities and laundry, it was a steal. But of course, there is a reason it cost a mere $900 a month. The apartment was situated in the basement of a six-unit building. The floor was all hard, cold tile. The heat was pumped through vents at the top of the apartment--enabling us to spend a lot of money to heat the apartment above us. I am sure they were very thankful for our help in subsidizing their heating bills. One of our biggest difficulties in the winter was that the pipes in the bathroom were too close to the outside walls. Every time the temperatures would drop outside (which happened often, of course, it being New England and all), our pipes would freeze. Thankfully, this only applied to the toilet and the sink, not the bathtub. But, it meant that we had to wash our hands in the tub, and then manually refill the toilet water.... Ahh, the life of young newlyweds in the city.
The next winter, we had a small child and after just a few weeks of this, I had more than enough. Finally, someone came to put in some insulation between the pipes and the outside wall. The bathroom itself (and the rest of the apartment) was still ridiculously cold. But at least we didn't have to manually refill the toilet water anymore. Living in luxury.
It was four years ago that we spent our winter filling and refilling a bucket from our tub. I won't ever forget it. Every year when the temperatures drop and winter creeps into the air, I am thankful that we won't be spending our time doing that again. And this year, we even figured out a way to let the temperature get hotter in the shower! Maybe I won't actually have to put an electric heater in there to keep from shivering. I'll tell you what, working plumbing and hot water are definitely big things to be thankful for.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Washing Dishes
Do you find that there are certain things on your priority list that you don't mind dropping down a few spots? And do you just-so-happen to do this (drop-down) often in regards to a particular task? Generally, I think I have something of a hierarchy of necessary work. But, there are certain tasks that, while "necessary," I thoroughly begrudge doing and so am willing to stall their undertaking as often as possible.
This evening while thinking about it, I decided that my daily chores can be compared to a card game. There are Kings and Queens that beat out all those low-numbered cards, but then there's always a "trump" card, too. So, for instance, cleaning up the toys that are clustered sporadically across the floor might be something like a 3 of Clubs, while doing the laundry so I have a work shirt ready might be a Jack of Spades. Activities like making sure the kids are fed and clean would probably rank in those higher level cards. While things like uncluttering the house and folding laundry would be low level cards.
Now, I'm not that avid a card player, but the "trump" card doesn't always have to be the same--right? That is to say, in one game it could be a Heart and in another game it could be a Diamond.... ? And, is it true it isn't necessarily the same number every time? I ask this, mostly just to make sure my analogy will really work....
You see, when it comes to washing dishes (let's say that's a 2 of Clubs), I will make almost anything a trump against it.
It's not like I abhor washing the dishes. I just don't really like it. There's almost always something else I'd rather be doing. You have to stand there, in one place, hands wet and soapy, wash after wash after wash after wash. Of course, I can't ever really stand there, in one place, since generally when I'm washing dishes, my children are still moving about throughout the house and need attending to every few minutes or so. Which only means that the entire washing dishes process takes that much longer: stop; listen carefully for which child is crying/yelling; rinse soap off hands; dry hands quickly; go check suspicious scene; resolve problematic issue/s; return to soapy water; continue washing; repeat entire process over again until dishes are complete or children have magically disappeared.
The only problem is that you eventually run out of trump cards. That is to say, eventually, the dishes must be done. It's a very disappointing reality. I often wish I was on one of those cooking shows. You see these people creating fantastic meals, but you never see them cleaning the dishes afterwards. At least the way I imagine it, they never even clean the dishes at all. They have their low-level minions do that. And so we have children. Oh, I await the day when they are old enough to be given daily dish duty.
This evening while thinking about it, I decided that my daily chores can be compared to a card game. There are Kings and Queens that beat out all those low-numbered cards, but then there's always a "trump" card, too. So, for instance, cleaning up the toys that are clustered sporadically across the floor might be something like a 3 of Clubs, while doing the laundry so I have a work shirt ready might be a Jack of Spades. Activities like making sure the kids are fed and clean would probably rank in those higher level cards. While things like uncluttering the house and folding laundry would be low level cards.
Now, I'm not that avid a card player, but the "trump" card doesn't always have to be the same--right? That is to say, in one game it could be a Heart and in another game it could be a Diamond.... ? And, is it true it isn't necessarily the same number every time? I ask this, mostly just to make sure my analogy will really work....
You see, when it comes to washing dishes (let's say that's a 2 of Clubs), I will make almost anything a trump against it.
It's not like I abhor washing the dishes. I just don't really like it. There's almost always something else I'd rather be doing. You have to stand there, in one place, hands wet and soapy, wash after wash after wash after wash. Of course, I can't ever really stand there, in one place, since generally when I'm washing dishes, my children are still moving about throughout the house and need attending to every few minutes or so. Which only means that the entire washing dishes process takes that much longer: stop; listen carefully for which child is crying/yelling; rinse soap off hands; dry hands quickly; go check suspicious scene; resolve problematic issue/s; return to soapy water; continue washing; repeat entire process over again until dishes are complete or children have magically disappeared.
The only problem is that you eventually run out of trump cards. That is to say, eventually, the dishes must be done. It's a very disappointing reality. I often wish I was on one of those cooking shows. You see these people creating fantastic meals, but you never see them cleaning the dishes afterwards. At least the way I imagine it, they never even clean the dishes at all. They have their low-level minions do that. And so we have children. Oh, I await the day when they are old enough to be given daily dish duty.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Shutterfly
So, I just got a Shutterfly account and suddenly I'm getting lots of free stuff. I'm loving it! First, somehow I got an email for a free 8x8 hard cover photo book. Then, once starting a Shutterfly account, I got 50 free prints. Now (just a week later!), Shutterfly is offering bloggers 50 FREE cards just by talking about Shutterfly's products on their blog. Can you even believe it?! I love the free wagon. I wish it came around more often.
For any of you out there who blog but haven't yet signed up to get in on those 50 free cards, here's the link: 50 Free Holiday Cards from Shutterfly
And for the rest of you who don't blog yourself, but are weird enough to read other people's musings, let me tell you a little about the coolness of Shutterfly. In the past, I've mostly used sites like this solely to upload photos and then have them printed. Cheaper than going to any nearby stores, and I like the quality. But my recent interlude with Shutterfly has really opened my eyes. It's amazing all the things you can do with your photos!!
For example, I'm having a girls holiday party--I totally could have made super-cute personalized cards on Shutterfly and sent them out. Check Holiday Invitation ideas out here.
Or, I could make my own personal tags to put on the gifts I give. Check out Tag ideas here. I love the idea of making personalized gift tags on Shutterfly. It's something I wish I had time to do by hand, making really cute personalized tags for each gift, but there's no way I'd really have time with two small kids in the house. Making them on Shutterfly actually seems reasonable!
I'm excited to be getting 50 free cards; they have some really fantastic choices! Check out Christmas Cards here. I'm not sure that it will be easy to decide which one to use!!
I've never done personalized holiday cards before, but last year a large portion of the cards we were given were personalized with a family photo. This may be really strange, but I've always kept these kind of cards. I have personalized Christmas cards from a family I used to babysit for spanning at least 7 years. I love looking at the progression of how the kids grow!! They aren't things I look at often, but maybe once or twice a year. With this Shutterfly offer, and thinking of those cards we've been given, I'm starting to think maybe we should be making it a new tradition in our house! It is such a great excuse to get a family picture, and an easy way to give others a quick glimpse into how we're doing!
For any of you out there who blog but haven't yet signed up to get in on those 50 free cards, here's the link: 50 Free Holiday Cards from Shutterfly
And for the rest of you who don't blog yourself, but are weird enough to read other people's musings, let me tell you a little about the coolness of Shutterfly. In the past, I've mostly used sites like this solely to upload photos and then have them printed. Cheaper than going to any nearby stores, and I like the quality. But my recent interlude with Shutterfly has really opened my eyes. It's amazing all the things you can do with your photos!!
For example, I'm having a girls holiday party--I totally could have made super-cute personalized cards on Shutterfly and sent them out. Check Holiday Invitation ideas out here.
Or, I could make my own personal tags to put on the gifts I give. Check out Tag ideas here. I love the idea of making personalized gift tags on Shutterfly. It's something I wish I had time to do by hand, making really cute personalized tags for each gift, but there's no way I'd really have time with two small kids in the house. Making them on Shutterfly actually seems reasonable!
I'm excited to be getting 50 free cards; they have some really fantastic choices! Check out Christmas Cards here. I'm not sure that it will be easy to decide which one to use!!
I've never done personalized holiday cards before, but last year a large portion of the cards we were given were personalized with a family photo. This may be really strange, but I've always kept these kind of cards. I have personalized Christmas cards from a family I used to babysit for spanning at least 7 years. I love looking at the progression of how the kids grow!! They aren't things I look at often, but maybe once or twice a year. With this Shutterfly offer, and thinking of those cards we've been given, I'm starting to think maybe we should be making it a new tradition in our house! It is such a great excuse to get a family picture, and an easy way to give others a quick glimpse into how we're doing!
Monday, November 15, 2010
Goodbye Creative Songs, Hello Distraction
Abby was up a lot last night. She rarely cries, but last night for some reason, between the hours of 2am and 4am, there was a lot of crying. Many tears. And for me, there were many frustrated hand gestures, hoping she'd suddenly realize the time and quietly fall back asleep. Finally, she was persuaded to sit in her crib with the hallway light on, giving enough glow to her room that she could play with her toys.
Today, I am tired. Very tired. And still somewhat sick. My voice is hoarse, but I keep thinking the more I use it, the more that will go away.... only, that doesn't seem to be working. Yet.
Sometimes I can start singing a song, just made up from my head, and keep going with it. Sometimes these songs end up sounding pretty good. At least, I think so. Today while I was feeding Abby, and trying to distract myself from Elijah who was causing all sorts of trouble, I starting making up a song. It turned out to be a pretty good one, and I decided that for once, I wanted to try to make an effort to record it. So, I quickly came to the computer and tried to figure out how to record a video of me singing, so later I could go back to it. (You know, later, like when I'm not in the middle of feeding one child and ignoring another.) It seemed like a great idea. But then, when I finally got the video working, I had lost the song. And just as I think it might be coming back to me, Elijah runs in--rice cake all over his face. That's all I needed to lose the song for good.
So, instead of a lyrically and tone-fully creative piece of music, I now had a song that was almost the opposite. And because the taping of it became somewhat funny to me, I thought I would share it with you. Please, do be kind. Singing solo (especially while sick) is not something I usually do in front of lots of people for fear of embarrassment, but I thought it was worth sharing because it made me laugh. I am sure there are a lot of other mothers out there who can relate to having what seems like a great plan quickly dissolve into nothing more than a silly waste of time. Oh, the best laid plans of mice and men!!
Here's the link to the video:
singing with preschoolers is so difficult
(Have you had any plans lately that went awry?)
Today, I am tired. Very tired. And still somewhat sick. My voice is hoarse, but I keep thinking the more I use it, the more that will go away.... only, that doesn't seem to be working. Yet.
Sometimes I can start singing a song, just made up from my head, and keep going with it. Sometimes these songs end up sounding pretty good. At least, I think so. Today while I was feeding Abby, and trying to distract myself from Elijah who was causing all sorts of trouble, I starting making up a song. It turned out to be a pretty good one, and I decided that for once, I wanted to try to make an effort to record it. So, I quickly came to the computer and tried to figure out how to record a video of me singing, so later I could go back to it. (You know, later, like when I'm not in the middle of feeding one child and ignoring another.) It seemed like a great idea. But then, when I finally got the video working, I had lost the song. And just as I think it might be coming back to me, Elijah runs in--rice cake all over his face. That's all I needed to lose the song for good.
So, instead of a lyrically and tone-fully creative piece of music, I now had a song that was almost the opposite. And because the taping of it became somewhat funny to me, I thought I would share it with you. Please, do be kind. Singing solo (especially while sick) is not something I usually do in front of lots of people for fear of embarrassment, but I thought it was worth sharing because it made me laugh. I am sure there are a lot of other mothers out there who can relate to having what seems like a great plan quickly dissolve into nothing more than a silly waste of time. Oh, the best laid plans of mice and men!!
Here's the link to the video:
singing with preschoolers is so difficult
(Have you had any plans lately that went awry?)
Friday, November 12, 2010
My Enemy, the Germ
It's that time of year again that sickness abounds in all houses with occupants under the age of 18. This is not law, but it is a somewhat standard occurrence. Blame the public sharing of germs and the growing body. I was told that there was a positive correlation between increase of children and increase of sickness in the home. I laughed at such a hypothesis. What once was laughter is now mourning at my third week of illness running rampant in the house. Be gone you beasts of ruin and despair!!! It is especially frustrating when I am the one with the disease, as it means next to nothing is done in the house. The dishes are not clean. Fresh meals are not prepared (which means, in turn, that the fresh produce that I bought a day before falling ill is now in danger of molding in the fridge). Laundry is not done, and children are most assuredly not given baths.
The germ is not just an enemy to the body, it is an enemy to the whole house. This tiny, miniscule, not-even-visible-with-our-own-eyes, microorganism is capable of rendering my entire house, for days if not weeks on end, a disaster site.
You know that it's true. You have seen it yourself, in your own homes. And there is no way to truly avoid it. The germ mocks us in our despair. We can stay home, devoid of all social life and engagement with the outside world. Keeping ourselves safe from any disease-carrying biped. But in reality, the germ is laughing--he has won without even touching us. We are paralyzed in fear of contact. And once we realize that staying indoors all winter is not an even semi-suitable option, we open the seal of our immunity and leave an entrance for disease. It may not happen right away. Let's be realistic, the germ is a busy organism. He has places to go, people to destroy. You will have to wait, careful of your every move, desperately trying to avoid contact. And when, at last, he is at the entrance of your cellular door, you will have no choice but to give in and let disaster take hold.
It is upsetting, is it not? But do not let such a small thing bring a damper to your mood! Enjoy yourself, while you can. And know that in the end, you will win against that great evildoer, germ. You will fight back. And you will win. It just might take you a while to clean up the mess afterwards.
The germ is not just an enemy to the body, it is an enemy to the whole house. This tiny, miniscule, not-even-visible-with-our-own-eyes, microorganism is capable of rendering my entire house, for days if not weeks on end, a disaster site.
You know that it's true. You have seen it yourself, in your own homes. And there is no way to truly avoid it. The germ mocks us in our despair. We can stay home, devoid of all social life and engagement with the outside world. Keeping ourselves safe from any disease-carrying biped. But in reality, the germ is laughing--he has won without even touching us. We are paralyzed in fear of contact. And once we realize that staying indoors all winter is not an even semi-suitable option, we open the seal of our immunity and leave an entrance for disease. It may not happen right away. Let's be realistic, the germ is a busy organism. He has places to go, people to destroy. You will have to wait, careful of your every move, desperately trying to avoid contact. And when, at last, he is at the entrance of your cellular door, you will have no choice but to give in and let disaster take hold.
It is upsetting, is it not? But do not let such a small thing bring a damper to your mood! Enjoy yourself, while you can. And know that in the end, you will win against that great evildoer, germ. You will fight back. And you will win. It just might take you a while to clean up the mess afterwards.
Monday, November 8, 2010
"Rest for Me" To the tune of "Respect" by Aretha Franklin
After both kids kept me up last night, I found myself changing the lyrics of the song Respect into something a little more applicable to my day today.... Rest. Boy I need it. You know I want it.
So anyway, here's just something to make you laugh. You can sing it to yourself next time the kids are wearing you down! (Or, of course, you can just take the idea and change it to whatever circumstance is more applicable to you right now.)
So anyway, here's just something to make you laugh. You can sing it to yourself next time the kids are wearing you down! (Or, of course, you can just take the idea and change it to whatever circumstance is more applicable to you right now.)
(oo) What I want
(oo) Baby, you got it
(oo) What I need
(oo) You got more of it
(oo) All I’m askin’Is for a little rest when I’m at home (just a little bit)
Hey children (just a little bit) when we’re at home
(just a little bit) kiddos (just a little bit)
I ain’t gonna sleep all the day long
Ain’t gonna be gone (oo) far too long (oo)
All I’m askin’ (oo)
Is for a little rest when I’m at home (just a little bit)
Children (just a little bit) when we’re at home (just a little bit)
Yeah (just a little bit)
Baby you’ll sleep, but your brother won’t
I need some rest, even one eye closed
Just give me a little down time
When I’m at home (just a, just a, just a, just a)
Yeah kids (just a, just a, just a, just a, just a)
When we’re at home (just a little bit)
Yeah (just a little bit)
----instrumental break----
Oooh, your smiles are
Sweeter than honey.
But I can’t stand it
when you’re whiney.
All I want you to do (oo) for me
Is give me some rest when we’re home (rest, rest, rest, rest)
Yeah kiddos (rest, rest, rest, rest)
Give it to me (rest, just a little bit)
Now and then (just as little bit)
R-E-S-T for me
Find out how great it’d be
R-E-S-T for me
Things would be better--you’ll see
Oh (give it to me, give it to me, give it to me, give it to me)
A little rest (give it to me, give it to me, give it to me, give it to me)
Woah, children (just a little bit)
A little rest (just a little bit)
I get tired (just a little bit)
Keep on tryin’ (just a little bit)
You’re runnin’ out of time outs (just a little bit)
And I ain’t lyin’ (just a little bit)
(rest, rest, rest, rest) for me
When we’re at home (just sometimes)
Or you might walk in (rest for me, just a little bit)
And find I’m hidin’ (just a little bit)
Somewhere quiet (just a little bit)
Just to find a little rest (just a little bit)
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Surprised by a challenge
Today I was challenged. So often in my daily routine I avoid things that would pull me out of my comfort zone. It's not something that I always consciously do. But, today when faced with a challenge, I realized how much I distance myself from such things. I'm not talking here about "challenges" like "let's see who can run to the end of the sidewalk first"--I'm talking about something that would actually challenge you. Something that would stretch you so much that it might even make your hands sweat or your heart rate increase. Something that would make you writhe inside, so much so that you want to run away and hide.
I experienced that kind of challenge today. It took me by surprise, actually. I had no idea, but the thought of sliding down a dark, enclosed, curvy tube, headed straight for 8 feet of water at the bottom, terrifies me. I hadn't expected to be so scared. I love slides. I also love water. And heights don't bother me all that much--I have skydived 13 times in the past. Perhaps it was the fact that the slide was enclosed, and upon peering in, all I could see was darkness. Or the fact that I'd be flying into water at the bottom--with only a nano-seconds warning.
Whatever the reasons were, I was terrified. But, like being in grade school all over again, I was being pushed to do it. Just another reminder of why I hated middle school and high school. So much peer pressure to do things I'd just as well not. But I couldn't cop out--it's only a water slide, right?? I kept thinking to myself, "no big deal....no big deal...this is really no big deal." I repeated that over and over in my head, trying to tell my mind it was fine, all the while my heart rate was skyrocketing. My hands were getting clammy. I realized that this was the first time in a long time that I was really being challenged. And I didn't like it. In fact, the first time, I just walked right down the stairs and refused to do it. But of course, pleads are hard to ignore.
So, after an extended period of pleading and prodding, I slowly, somewhat begrudgingly, traipsed up the windy stairs to the top of the slide once more. I had a plan. It couldn't be more than ten seconds, the whole thing, right? I could definitely hold my breath that long. Just close my eyes, hold my nose, and go. No looking back. I can do this.
And I did. I'm not about to tell you it was less scary than I made it out to be. While I might have made it to the bottom safe and sound, those few seconds winding inside that dark enclosure was scary for sure. I think I felt the speed of the fall as much as I felt my heart pounding. And afterwards, I think I needed five minutes just to recuperate.
Now, for some of you, that kind of thing is no big deal--dark slides, landing in water, no biggie. But for me, it took some guts. I met that challenge head on and I feel like my character has grown on account of it. I'm not saying I want a challenge like that every day, but I am thankful for it. I did it!! And now, back to life as it was before.....
I experienced that kind of challenge today. It took me by surprise, actually. I had no idea, but the thought of sliding down a dark, enclosed, curvy tube, headed straight for 8 feet of water at the bottom, terrifies me. I hadn't expected to be so scared. I love slides. I also love water. And heights don't bother me all that much--I have skydived 13 times in the past. Perhaps it was the fact that the slide was enclosed, and upon peering in, all I could see was darkness. Or the fact that I'd be flying into water at the bottom--with only a nano-seconds warning.
Whatever the reasons were, I was terrified. But, like being in grade school all over again, I was being pushed to do it. Just another reminder of why I hated middle school and high school. So much peer pressure to do things I'd just as well not. But I couldn't cop out--it's only a water slide, right?? I kept thinking to myself, "no big deal....no big deal...this is really no big deal." I repeated that over and over in my head, trying to tell my mind it was fine, all the while my heart rate was skyrocketing. My hands were getting clammy. I realized that this was the first time in a long time that I was really being challenged. And I didn't like it. In fact, the first time, I just walked right down the stairs and refused to do it. But of course, pleads are hard to ignore.
So, after an extended period of pleading and prodding, I slowly, somewhat begrudgingly, traipsed up the windy stairs to the top of the slide once more. I had a plan. It couldn't be more than ten seconds, the whole thing, right? I could definitely hold my breath that long. Just close my eyes, hold my nose, and go. No looking back. I can do this.
And I did. I'm not about to tell you it was less scary than I made it out to be. While I might have made it to the bottom safe and sound, those few seconds winding inside that dark enclosure was scary for sure. I think I felt the speed of the fall as much as I felt my heart pounding. And afterwards, I think I needed five minutes just to recuperate.
Now, for some of you, that kind of thing is no big deal--dark slides, landing in water, no biggie. But for me, it took some guts. I met that challenge head on and I feel like my character has grown on account of it. I'm not saying I want a challenge like that every day, but I am thankful for it. I did it!! And now, back to life as it was before.....
Friday, November 5, 2010
Prerogatives
We were talking about prerogatives in our house today, if only briefly. My husband handed me a dirty dish and asked me to put it into the sink. As I took it from him to do so, I firmly said, "No."
He mentioned something to me about how I like to say one thing and do another. I told him that was my prerogative. To which he replies, "I'm a physicist: [therefore] I don't have to wear matching colors. You're a woman; [therefore] you don't have to do what you say [you will do]."
Yes, exactly.
We all live with certain prerogatives, don't we? The dictionary calls them "exclusive or special rights, powers or privileges." I'm not sure who ever told me that I could have those special rights, but I do so firmly believe I am entitled to them.
For example, I work a couple of hours a week watching children for parents who are exercising. We have a big play area for the kids, one area for bigger kids, and another area for babies and infants who aren't yet walking. The kids aren't supposed to have food while they're there, and yet, my son has a special medical condition that necessitates his eating snacks, somewhat often. And, as it's my prerogative, I give my child food, much to the chagrin of the other children. At times, some of the other children will gather around him, telling me things like, "I'm hungry! I need a snack.... please.... I'm really hungry.... why does HE get one....??" Not fair. So not fair.
You might think this is an acceptable circumstance, and maybe it is, but it does make me think a lot about our prerogatives. Sometimes it's downright funny what we think we are entitled to. Like Shania Twain's song, "The best thing about being a woman, is the prerogative to have a little fun...."
Most of the prerogatives we live by we probably don't even realize have. Like when my husband pointed out that because I'm a woman my actions and words don't have to line up. He was really only joking when he said it, but when I think about it, there is some truth to it.... there is a part of me that feels like I get to be more fickle because I'm a woman. It's pretty ridiculous. But it's true.
And it's also true that deep down inside, I feel like my husband has an excuse for not knowing how to dress.... he's a physicist. Isn't that his prerogative...??
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Making Food
I really like to bake. I can't say everything I make is beautiful, but most of it tastes pretty fantastic. And I'm working on the aesthetic part. Sometimes I'll make the same thing for weeks in a row until I feel like I can make it look good. Or at least, good enough for other people to see it.
I have a problem, though, because I'm really trying to lose some of these baby pounds. This wouldn't be a problem if there were lots of people in my house to consume the baked goods I am so frequently making. As it is, there are only four of us. And, one of those four doesn't even have teeth yet. So, I am often forced to eat what I've made. Yes, forced. All that food can't go to waste; I surely can't let it mold on my counter. I do freeze quite a bit, but there's only so much room in my freezer. An easy solution would be to bake less. But I can't seem to manage that. I must bake. It's almost therapeutic. When the kids are stressing me out, I just want to make something and have the kitchen smell like delicious-ness. Even just the smell of comfort food can bring calm in times of stress.
I am left with a dilemma. It's like this: can't live with the baked goods; can't live without making them.
In my mind, I envision the perfect solution......
Here in my home, I am just putting a delicious pie into the oven. Or two. Maybe Apple. It's the season for apple pies. While it's in the oven, I prepare my sign. "Uber-delicious, melt in your mouth, make your taste buds sing, fresh-out-of-the-oven apple pie inside." When the timer says five minutes left on the pie, I take my sign outside and plant it right in front of the house. At the door, I put a sign, "Entrance fee: $5." The table is prepared with plates and forks, even cups with warm apple cider.
Enter: guests. Here they come.... every car that innocently drives down my street can't help but pull over at the thought of warm gooey apple pie. And as soon as they open the door, the smell is like a magnet pulling them in. "Five dollars? What?..... Oh well, I can't turn back now. That smell is calling to me!"
And so they eat. Every last piece. I take down my sign, say goodbye, and begin to clean up.
Problem solved. Pie is gone. And, as a bonus, I have some cash to boot. Cash I will probably spend on the next baked item to come out of my oven. Whatever it may be.
If only it were that easy.
I have a problem, though, because I'm really trying to lose some of these baby pounds. This wouldn't be a problem if there were lots of people in my house to consume the baked goods I am so frequently making. As it is, there are only four of us. And, one of those four doesn't even have teeth yet. So, I am often forced to eat what I've made. Yes, forced. All that food can't go to waste; I surely can't let it mold on my counter. I do freeze quite a bit, but there's only so much room in my freezer. An easy solution would be to bake less. But I can't seem to manage that. I must bake. It's almost therapeutic. When the kids are stressing me out, I just want to make something and have the kitchen smell like delicious-ness. Even just the smell of comfort food can bring calm in times of stress.
I am left with a dilemma. It's like this: can't live with the baked goods; can't live without making them.
In my mind, I envision the perfect solution......
Here in my home, I am just putting a delicious pie into the oven. Or two. Maybe Apple. It's the season for apple pies. While it's in the oven, I prepare my sign. "Uber-delicious, melt in your mouth, make your taste buds sing, fresh-out-of-the-oven apple pie inside." When the timer says five minutes left on the pie, I take my sign outside and plant it right in front of the house. At the door, I put a sign, "Entrance fee: $5." The table is prepared with plates and forks, even cups with warm apple cider.
Enter: guests. Here they come.... every car that innocently drives down my street can't help but pull over at the thought of warm gooey apple pie. And as soon as they open the door, the smell is like a magnet pulling them in. "Five dollars? What?..... Oh well, I can't turn back now. That smell is calling to me!"
And so they eat. Every last piece. I take down my sign, say goodbye, and begin to clean up.
Problem solved. Pie is gone. And, as a bonus, I have some cash to boot. Cash I will probably spend on the next baked item to come out of my oven. Whatever it may be.
If only it were that easy.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Logic from a three year old
Our son recently turned three and we are so very proud of him. He's a quick learner and loves to study his surroundings. It's fun to see how his mind works. Today we got a taste of his great logic.
He and I have been listening to the Toy Story 2 soundtrack lately. One of his friends was "Jesse" (the yodeling cowgirl) for Halloween and I couldn't get the "Woody's Roundup" song out of my head after seeing her. So, it only seemed right to play the entire soundtrack so I wouldn't just have that one song in my head.
This morning, I saw my son sitting on the coffee table in front of the CD player, hands folded in his lap, listening intently as Sarah McLachlan sang "When she loved me." He seemed to be soaking up every word of the lyrics. Minutes later, he ran out of the room and I could hear him say, somewhat solemnly, to my husband, "When somebody loved me, everything was beautiful." To which my husband said, "I love you!"
And my three year old replied, with a joy and lightness in his voice like he really believed that suddenly it was true: "Everything is beautiful now!"
He and I have been listening to the Toy Story 2 soundtrack lately. One of his friends was "Jesse" (the yodeling cowgirl) for Halloween and I couldn't get the "Woody's Roundup" song out of my head after seeing her. So, it only seemed right to play the entire soundtrack so I wouldn't just have that one song in my head.
This morning, I saw my son sitting on the coffee table in front of the CD player, hands folded in his lap, listening intently as Sarah McLachlan sang "When she loved me." He seemed to be soaking up every word of the lyrics. Minutes later, he ran out of the room and I could hear him say, somewhat solemnly, to my husband, "When somebody loved me, everything was beautiful." To which my husband said, "I love you!"
And my three year old replied, with a joy and lightness in his voice like he really believed that suddenly it was true: "Everything is beautiful now!"
Friday, October 29, 2010
Playing Games
I didn't realize it growing up, but I love to play games. In my childhood home, we almost never had all the pieces to any game. Those that we did have all the pieces for, we seldom played. And, when we did play, it was more for the time together than for the thrill of the game. I remember that we used to spend hours playing monopoly--just trying to get as much money as we could. The first round was always the round to just get money. No one would even think of buying a property. Not because we were trying to quell the urge, but because we truly had no desire to do such a thing.
Then I played Monopoly for the first time with my husband. On his first turn, he bought a property. I was aghast. I was so shocked that I couldn't help but let out an audible gasp. He looked up at me, perplexed.
In the last four years of my marriage, I have learned to play games for the thrill and competition of playing them. It has awakened in me a passion for the activity, but it has equally awakened in me an anger of losing. It's not that I hate to lose. Once. Or maybe twice. But when I start losing often, I get pretty angry. I get so angry, that I struggle to have normal conversations. My face even begins to contort into an evil grimace.... If you saw me, you might think I was just messing around. But really, inside, I feel like a steaming kettle about to burst.
But, you know that phrase, "if you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen"? Basically it speaks to the idea of keeping yourself from situations that you can't really handle. I've taken that phrase to heart when it comes to playing games. I try very hard to keep myself from getting really angry. And how do I do that? Simple. Make sure I don't lose too often. Ahhhh.... But how do I do THAT?
I pick carefully the games that I am willing to play with my husband. With other people, I am not necessarily so picky. But when you are married to an uber-smart person, you must take certain steps to assure yourself of not feeling like a dummy all the time. This particularly applies when playing games. So, these are some things that I consider when choosing games I will play with my husband:
1) The game MUST have some element of chance. It cannot be entirely strategy-based.
2) Along the lines of number 1, but more specific: It cannot be chess. I will never play chess with my husband.
3) It cannot be something I know he is already good at, or has already practiced. I will first play with someone else.
4) I will not play it if I have recently had consecutive losses when playing the game with him.
5) The more luck-based the game, the happier I am when I'm playing it.
There you have it. My best means for staying away from the temptation of an evil rage. It doesn't always work, but I think it keeps me generally sane. I did go to bed angry the other night because he killed me in a game, but, it was really my own fault. I didn't abide by my own rules; in this case, rule #3. But don't worry. While he's working this weekend, I'll make sure to practice up on my own so next time the playing field is more equal....
Then I played Monopoly for the first time with my husband. On his first turn, he bought a property. I was aghast. I was so shocked that I couldn't help but let out an audible gasp. He looked up at me, perplexed.
In the last four years of my marriage, I have learned to play games for the thrill and competition of playing them. It has awakened in me a passion for the activity, but it has equally awakened in me an anger of losing. It's not that I hate to lose. Once. Or maybe twice. But when I start losing often, I get pretty angry. I get so angry, that I struggle to have normal conversations. My face even begins to contort into an evil grimace.... If you saw me, you might think I was just messing around. But really, inside, I feel like a steaming kettle about to burst.
But, you know that phrase, "if you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen"? Basically it speaks to the idea of keeping yourself from situations that you can't really handle. I've taken that phrase to heart when it comes to playing games. I try very hard to keep myself from getting really angry. And how do I do that? Simple. Make sure I don't lose too often. Ahhhh.... But how do I do THAT?
I pick carefully the games that I am willing to play with my husband. With other people, I am not necessarily so picky. But when you are married to an uber-smart person, you must take certain steps to assure yourself of not feeling like a dummy all the time. This particularly applies when playing games. So, these are some things that I consider when choosing games I will play with my husband:
1) The game MUST have some element of chance. It cannot be entirely strategy-based.
2) Along the lines of number 1, but more specific: It cannot be chess. I will never play chess with my husband.
3) It cannot be something I know he is already good at, or has already practiced. I will first play with someone else.
4) I will not play it if I have recently had consecutive losses when playing the game with him.
5) The more luck-based the game, the happier I am when I'm playing it.
There you have it. My best means for staying away from the temptation of an evil rage. It doesn't always work, but I think it keeps me generally sane. I did go to bed angry the other night because he killed me in a game, but, it was really my own fault. I didn't abide by my own rules; in this case, rule #3. But don't worry. While he's working this weekend, I'll make sure to practice up on my own so next time the playing field is more equal....
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Pack Rat vs. Hopeful
I feel like I am trying to organize our house every single day. In every room I look, there are things that are out of place, or don't really have a place at all. It makes me want to do a major reorganization. But then as soon as I start, I realize that it's too big a job for the little amount of time I have. (Or, too ridiculous an idea, with children who would make a disaster of the attempt.)
And as I look at all these things I would like to organize and find a place for, I sometimes think to myself, "if only you weren't such a pack rat, you wouldn't have so much to reorganize." I have so many books, scraps of materials, random materials for potential crafts..... Is it that I am a pack rat with these items, or could it instead be said that I am a hopeful person? A person who is hopeful that I could one day find time to reread the books I thought worthy enough to keep after college. A person who is hopeful that some day I could make something beautiful or useful out of the many boxes of scrap material I have. A person who is hopeful that I will some day have time to craft something interesting out of the various materials I've collected over the years.
Though, I suppose it doesn't really matter to the casual house guest what the reasoning is behind my clutter. Sadly enough. If only I could welcome people to my home saying, "Hello! So glad you're here! Please note that my house is extremely cluttered because of all the things I'd like to eventually do with the various items scattered within." Or, I could put a sign in front of the door, "Please excuse the mess. Wishful thinker lives here."
There are times when I think that a house fire is the only real solution to the whole problem. Granted, I don't actually want my house to catch on fire--for a plethora of reasons. It merely seemed like an easy solution to these problems. It would, however, bring other problems--much larger--and so this is not a solution I would recommend to anyone, myself included. The reality is, there is no easy fix to this situation. Unless..... Yes, the only easy fix is that one of those home TV shows comes and does all the organizing for me. That's about the only good solution I can think of.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Probationary Friends
Tomorrow is an important anniversary for my husband and me. It is not our wedding anniversary, or the day we met. Nor is it the day we got engaged. It's not any of those semi-normal days of remembering in a relationship. It is, instead, the day of remembering on October 23rd, year 2004*, that we were no longer "probationary friends." The restrictions were lifted and we were allowed to take that next step.... dating.
Now, truth be told, we had already dated. That was part of the problem. I had already "gone out with him" (albeit, when I was half -the-world away in New Zealand). Then I promptly discarded him after the two-month trial was over. (To that date, I had consistently broken up with my boyfriends after two months.) There had been so many ups and downs in the two years since we had met that he didn't even feel we were able to start back at friends--we had to be "probationary friends."
It is probably the curse of the genius that they need to give a term to every idea in their universe. My poor on-again-off-again boyfriend/friend/enemy had to make a term for what was going on. Obviously I had already broken his heart once before, but just so everyone was clear that he wasn't just opening himself up to let it happen again, he defined what was taking place: probation. Examination. Evaluation. Should I pass the test and be considered a friend, only then was it possible to move on to more-than friends.
I understood his need to do that. I really did. I had been a fickle and flirty freshman when he met me, and there were things I said and did that weren't so nice. I was happy for a chance to redeem myself. I had realized, after some time, that he actually was a pretty amazing guy and I didn't really want to let him go. This revelation came as a great surprise to me, since I had previously written a long list defining the reasons why I could never be in a relationship with such a man. In fact, I sent him this list; just so that he knew why he was doomed to failure. Yes. I did. And so you see why we needed to be probationary friends.
But, praise God, I passed the test! I was let off probation, and today I am the wife of a very forgiving man. Tomorrow I celebrate, because we are no longer probationary friends.
*I had previously written 2005, but that was definitely wrong..... :-P
Now, truth be told, we had already dated. That was part of the problem. I had already "gone out with him" (albeit, when I was half -the-world away in New Zealand). Then I promptly discarded him after the two-month trial was over. (To that date, I had consistently broken up with my boyfriends after two months.) There had been so many ups and downs in the two years since we had met that he didn't even feel we were able to start back at friends--we had to be "probationary friends."
It is probably the curse of the genius that they need to give a term to every idea in their universe. My poor on-again-off-again boyfriend/friend/enemy had to make a term for what was going on. Obviously I had already broken his heart once before, but just so everyone was clear that he wasn't just opening himself up to let it happen again, he defined what was taking place: probation. Examination. Evaluation. Should I pass the test and be considered a friend, only then was it possible to move on to more-than friends.
I understood his need to do that. I really did. I had been a fickle and flirty freshman when he met me, and there were things I said and did that weren't so nice. I was happy for a chance to redeem myself. I had realized, after some time, that he actually was a pretty amazing guy and I didn't really want to let him go. This revelation came as a great surprise to me, since I had previously written a long list defining the reasons why I could never be in a relationship with such a man. In fact, I sent him this list; just so that he knew why he was doomed to failure. Yes. I did. And so you see why we needed to be probationary friends.
But, praise God, I passed the test! I was let off probation, and today I am the wife of a very forgiving man. Tomorrow I celebrate, because we are no longer probationary friends.
*I had previously written 2005, but that was definitely wrong..... :-P
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Pumpkin Rolls
As I've mentioned before, I love pumpkin. And pumpkin knot rolls don't last long in our house. I always double the batch and put half in the freezer. Pull one out any time you'd like, zap it in the microwave for 10 seconds (or more, depending on your microwave), and tada! Tastes like it just came out of the oven.
I used to buy Challah bread at our local Whole Foods in Cambridge, and these rolls remind me a lot of that Challah bread. Perfect outside, perfect inside....you can eat it by itself, or with just butter, or with anything you like. The perfect comfort food. I paired it last night with a bowl of Panera Bread broccoli cheddar soup. It was FANTASTIC! I'd recommend it. :) Here's the recipe for the rolls, and I've also included a step-by-step how-to if you want to make them but haven't made any kind of bread before. They're not hard, really. And if you look at my pictures, it will make it even easier. Don't be afraid! These rolls just melt in your mouth.
Pumpkin Knot Rolls
2 pkgs. active dry yeast
1c. warm milk (110-115 degrees)
1/3c. butter, softened
1/2c. sugar
1c. canned pumpkin
3 eggs (2 + 1)
1 1/2tsp. salt
5 1/2-6c. flour
1 T cold water
In a mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk. Add the butter, sugar, pumpkin, 2 eggs, salt and 3 cups flour. Beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour. Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly flour surface; divide in half. Shape each portion into 12 balls. Roll each ball into a 10 inch rope; tie into a knot and tuck ends under. Place 2 inches apart on greased baking sheets. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 30 minutes. In a small bowl, beat water and remaining egg. Brush over rolls. Bake at 350 degrees for 13-17 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pans to wire rack. Yield: 2 dozen.
(In the pictures below, I doubled the recipe. Because I doubled the recipe, I added the extra flour by hand in the beginning of the kneading process. If your mixer can handle doing that by itself, start with number 3.)
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Fall pancakes
Hello, Fall! How I love thee. Let me count the ways....
No, not really. I'm not going to list the reasons I love Fall. There are too many to remember at any given time. But, I definitely love the seasonal produce, not least of which being pumpkins and apples. I don't buy fresh pumpkins to use in recipes, but I do love the fact that canned pumpkin is readily available.
Last night I made breakfast for dinner and tried out a recipe for pumpkin pancakes. I changed the recipe to suite my taste and they were absolutely delicious! I hope you'll make some of your own. :)
First make the yummy sauce:
In a heavy saucepan, cook 1/2c. butter, cubed, on medium heat until golden brown. Stir occasionally. Add 1/4c. maple syrup, 1/2tsp. ground cinnamon and 1/4tsp. nutmeg (and 1/2c. toasted pecans if desired).
Remove from heat and set aside while you make the pancakes. :)
Pumpkin Apple pancakes
In a large bowl, combine:
3c. flour
1/4c. packed brown sugar
4 TBS. baking powder
2 tsp. salt
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
4 eggs
2 2/3c. 2% milk
1 can pumpkin
1c. ricotta cheese
1 medium apple, chopped into small pieces
Combine flour mixture and pumpkin mixture, just until mixed. Add 1/4c. to 1/2c. of water if mixture seems too thick--I needed to do this. (it will rise quite a bit on the skillet, so be warned!)
Drop the batter onto a hot skillet until bubbles form on the top and some begin to pop. Turn pancakes over, and cook until second side is golden brown. Serve with maple butter.
They are scrumptious! And very moist too. Well worth the extra effort. :D
No, not really. I'm not going to list the reasons I love Fall. There are too many to remember at any given time. But, I definitely love the seasonal produce, not least of which being pumpkins and apples. I don't buy fresh pumpkins to use in recipes, but I do love the fact that canned pumpkin is readily available.
Last night I made breakfast for dinner and tried out a recipe for pumpkin pancakes. I changed the recipe to suite my taste and they were absolutely delicious! I hope you'll make some of your own. :)
First make the yummy sauce:
In a heavy saucepan, cook 1/2c. butter, cubed, on medium heat until golden brown. Stir occasionally. Add 1/4c. maple syrup, 1/2tsp. ground cinnamon and 1/4tsp. nutmeg (and 1/2c. toasted pecans if desired).
Remove from heat and set aside while you make the pancakes. :)
Pumpkin Apple pancakes
In a large bowl, combine:
3c. flour
1/4c. packed brown sugar
4 TBS. baking powder
2 tsp. salt
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
4 eggs
2 2/3c. 2% milk
1 can pumpkin
1c. ricotta cheese
1 medium apple, chopped into small pieces
Combine flour mixture and pumpkin mixture, just until mixed. Add 1/4c. to 1/2c. of water if mixture seems too thick--I needed to do this. (it will rise quite a bit on the skillet, so be warned!)
Drop the batter onto a hot skillet until bubbles form on the top and some begin to pop. Turn pancakes over, and cook until second side is golden brown. Serve with maple butter.
They are scrumptious! And very moist too. Well worth the extra effort. :D
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Steelers Country
I was a woman on a mission today in Pittsburgh. I was just traveling through between Pennsylvania and Indiana. It was the return trip on a wonderful and long vacation. My son, though, was weary from the traveling we'd already accomplished in the past weeks and so his patience for staying in his confined space was stretching thin. Someone had lent us a car DVD player, but he'd already watched the movies of interest three or more times, and the 5+ movies he hadn't watched, he refused to let me even put in the DVD player. He was sure he wouldn't like them based on their covers--he did NOT want an animal movie. (The majority of children's movies are animal movies I've recently realized, much to my disappointment.) A brilliant friend suggested finding a movie at a Red Box in Pittsburgh while we were there, and bringing it on the road with us to help pass the hours go come.
And so, I was on a mission. The first Red Box, on my way to the Turnpike, didn't seem to be working properly and was absolutely useless to a person actually wanting to rent a DVD. But, I was determined to make the ride more pleasant for everyone by getting my son a new movie. So, I trudged inside and waited in line, just to ask the cashier where I could find another Red Box nearby. Of course, this one was miles down the road. Was it worth going out of my way, and possibly getting lost? With a whimpering son in the car, yes, I decided it was worth it.
So, after a couple of wrong turns, I found the other Red Box....that had seemingly fewer choices (though, with the benefit of being able to actually rent the one I picked). At last! We were ready to complete our journey. First I just had to figure out how to get to the Turnpike.
And suddenly, my eyes were opened. I know my Pittsburgh-ian friend had noted earlier in the morning that there was a Steelers game today, but it was an unimportant, passing, comment as far as I was concerned. Yet now, as I looked around me in the Giant Eagle parking lot, I realized something I hadn't before: I was in Steelers Country. I'd heard the phrase before, but it made me chuckle. This time, it felt like a real place. It wasn't an idea; it was an actual place.
The somewhat "elderly" couple who I asked for directions were fully outfitted in coordinating Steelers coats. And, when the woman came closer to my car, I realized that she had completed her ensemble with pumpkin earrings that had the Steelers logo in the center.
Everywhere I looked were shirts, hats, coats, flags, signs, painted cars....
I had this urge to hop out of the car and start following people around with a notepad. My anthropology side came out like a lion and I wanted to do an ethnography of Steelers Country. Too bad that couldn't really happen for oh so many reasons.
But I did leave Pittsburgh with the sense that there was something big going on there that couldn't be explained by just a football game. A way of living that was somewhat foreign to me...but intriguing all the same.
And so, I was on a mission. The first Red Box, on my way to the Turnpike, didn't seem to be working properly and was absolutely useless to a person actually wanting to rent a DVD. But, I was determined to make the ride more pleasant for everyone by getting my son a new movie. So, I trudged inside and waited in line, just to ask the cashier where I could find another Red Box nearby. Of course, this one was miles down the road. Was it worth going out of my way, and possibly getting lost? With a whimpering son in the car, yes, I decided it was worth it.
So, after a couple of wrong turns, I found the other Red Box....that had seemingly fewer choices (though, with the benefit of being able to actually rent the one I picked). At last! We were ready to complete our journey. First I just had to figure out how to get to the Turnpike.
And suddenly, my eyes were opened. I know my Pittsburgh-ian friend had noted earlier in the morning that there was a Steelers game today, but it was an unimportant, passing, comment as far as I was concerned. Yet now, as I looked around me in the Giant Eagle parking lot, I realized something I hadn't before: I was in Steelers Country. I'd heard the phrase before, but it made me chuckle. This time, it felt like a real place. It wasn't an idea; it was an actual place.
The somewhat "elderly" couple who I asked for directions were fully outfitted in coordinating Steelers coats. And, when the woman came closer to my car, I realized that she had completed her ensemble with pumpkin earrings that had the Steelers logo in the center.
Everywhere I looked were shirts, hats, coats, flags, signs, painted cars....
I had this urge to hop out of the car and start following people around with a notepad. My anthropology side came out like a lion and I wanted to do an ethnography of Steelers Country. Too bad that couldn't really happen for oh so many reasons.
But I did leave Pittsburgh with the sense that there was something big going on there that couldn't be explained by just a football game. A way of living that was somewhat foreign to me...but intriguing all the same.
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