I was going to do a year in review, or a list of Favorites, or something "bloggery,"but, really? Who are we kidding? Set an attainable goal- so, how about 12 things I learned this year? Yup. Can do. In no particular order.
1) Chalk pen does NOT. I repeat, does NOT come off of a chalkboard wall. Yup, tried that and that. Trust. I tried everything. I finally painted over it. All those people with cutesy-Pinteresty-chalkboards using chalk pens?- I call BS that they ever change them.
2) My daughter is an even bigger Longhorn fan than I am. Her Longhorn fervor pleases me to no end. She's 7 and can name everyone on the football team. Watching football games with her is an absolute riot.
3) Having two kids in soccer is exhausting. They are only 7 and 9. And, y'all, soccer season WORE us all out. Here, there, chairs, snacks, uniforms, and cleats. Oy.
4) Good wine is worth it.
5) Any getaway is totally worth it.
6) Do not trust Apple when they tell you that all the photos you've taken, but haven't synced because of a software issue with your phone, will be available after they guru it. Lies.
7) I finally got the hang of blow drying my own hair. this is truly red-letter news. It took me a ridiculously long time and tons of practice to figure it out-thank you to youtube and Jodifur (buy any hair thing she recommends).
8) I'm addicted to sheath dresses. They are my kryptonite.
9) Long and short of it- I'm glad Mack is gone. It was past time. I won't deny he brought the program back to national prominence (I lived through Mackovic), but, this is Texas, and there is no reason we shouldn't be national contenders every year. Don't even get me started on QB issues...My personal pick, Gus Malzahn seems to be out of consideration. Nobody ever asks my opinion-hmph!
10) At one point this Fall, our garage hosted a deer head in a cooler and a dead frozen badger in our freezer. Sadly neither surprised me.
11) This year was my concert year, I saw tons of great entertainers- Beyonce, Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, Blake Shelton, Lenny Kravitz. Totally fun.
12) I hacked the heck out of Ikea and stalked Craigslist like a champ. As a result, I am thisclose to having the awesomest Liberace Lounge/Funky Family Room ever. SO close. (Thanks, Emily for all the consults!)
Showing posts with label Thoughts and Musings. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Thoughts and Musings. Show all posts
Christmas List Time, Girls!
I'm in danger of turning this blog into one big youtube collection and I don't care because this is brilliant. If you think this won't be under my girls' Christmas tree, you don't know me at all.
Rock your brains, Girls!
Rock your brains, Girls!
Friday Favorite- Phoebe Kicks A**
Anyone who knows me knows I am a feminist. I love TV shows and movies with strong, successful female characters. I wasn't sure about Phoebe (Lisa Kudrow) joining the case of "Scandal," but her character is nothing like Phoebe. She's all about politics and kicking a**. So, pretty much awesome.
Exhibit A:
I might have even said 'Hell, yes," aloud to my TV when that aired last week.
Exhibit A:
I might have even said 'Hell, yes," aloud to my TV when that aired last week.
Mother of the Year
Ladies, put your applications down. I won the "Mother of the Year" contest. I'm that mom, the one who got her daughter all excited about a sleepover party and arrived...a week early. Awesome. I guess now we are all ready for the party, when it eventually happens?
In my defense, I have been traveling a lot. And, evites are harder to remember than an actual invite. And, well...yeah.
In my defense, I have been traveling a lot. And, evites are harder to remember than an actual invite. And, well...yeah.
Unprepared
I didn't want to write this post.
My friend died today. Even though she had a terminal illness, I really thought she'd keep beating the odds. I honestly thought we'd get a miracle and was pissed when I realized we wouldn't. There is more to be said about Rachel and the lessons I've learned in the past few days. But, I honestly just can't. My heart hurts for her husband and their families. And, us.
This is my friend Rachel, and she was awesome. See?-here and here; awesome. She will be missed every day by many people. I wish you could have met her.
My friend died today. Even though she had a terminal illness, I really thought she'd keep beating the odds. I honestly thought we'd get a miracle and was pissed when I realized we wouldn't. There is more to be said about Rachel and the lessons I've learned in the past few days. But, I honestly just can't. My heart hurts for her husband and their families. And, us.
This is my friend Rachel, and she was awesome. See?-here and here; awesome. She will be missed every day by many people. I wish you could have met her.
Monday Musings
I am worn out and in the middle of one of those nasty cold/pressure/sinus things. Thankfully that waited to come upon me until after I finished a business trip. Small mercies.
I tried having a teachable moment ala "Lean In" when talking to my daughters about being called "Bossy" at school (totally true, btw). Let's just hope that feminism and leadership soak in over a series of lessons because today I was met with blank stares. Sigh.
*Edited to add*- it sank in! Em just told her sister, "You can either be a leader or be bossy." I'll call that a success.
*Edited to add*- it sank in! Em just told her sister, "You can either be a leader or be bossy." I'll call that a success.
Can you guess what these are?
Em guessed Dodo birds. Ha!
Baby vultures, found in a hunting blind on the Property. Apparently not pleased to be discovered. There goes my theory that all baby animals are cute.
I travel pretty frequently now and could write a book on lessons and observations learned from business travel. Chief among them, "Don't be a d---- if you're running late and going to miss your plane to the rest of use who aren't." Directed at the two guys, I rode over in the rental car shuttle with who failed to leave enough time and then pushed through security because of it. D---heads. Followed closely by the guy who came pushing through the final TSA security line (where they scan your stuff) asking to cut in line because he had a flight in 4 minutes. There is NO WAY you are making that flight. Buy a freaking watch.
I just started watching "Downton Abbey" and finished the first season (thank you airport delays---sigh). Can I just say, WTF with O'Brien? And Thomas is a little crap weasel. I hope they both get their comeuppance. My friend Pam told me it only gets crazier for O'Brien from here, so...seriously, I will be so upset if nothing bad happens to her.
I just started watching "Downton Abbey" and finished the first season (thank you airport delays---sigh). Can I just say, WTF with O'Brien? And Thomas is a little crap weasel. I hope they both get their comeuppance. My friend Pam told me it only gets crazier for O'Brien from here, so...seriously, I will be so upset if nothing bad happens to her.
Birthday Shoes
Today's my birthday! Woo. Two years closer to the big 4-0. I'm OK with it because that's two years closer to a big trip we'll take to celebrate my new decade. I started the day with an armful of awesome handmade cards and books and art from my girls-pretty much the best gifts ever. I also got awesome birthday shoes. These.
They are awesome. Professional, but with a touch of fun. The story of how I got them is pretty fun(ny) too.
A few weeks ago we spent the weekend at our Property. The girls and I were inside playing games and relaxing after a long day of exploring. My husband decided to head outside and (surprise-surprise) try to do a little hunting. He headed out to the blind to wait for a turkey. Our property has TONS of turkeys. Did you know turkeys roost in trees at night? Totally crazy to see. Anyhow, I was scooting around the internet in between turns and decided to check out the Kate Spade Friends & Family Sale. A few minutes later and I saw the shoes. I feel in love. A new neutral. LOVE. I didn't want them to sell out of my size, so I used our walkie talkie.
They are awesome. Professional, but with a touch of fun. The story of how I got them is pretty fun(ny) too.
A few weeks ago we spent the weekend at our Property. The girls and I were inside playing games and relaxing after a long day of exploring. My husband decided to head outside and (surprise-surprise) try to do a little hunting. He headed out to the blind to wait for a turkey. Our property has TONS of turkeys. Did you know turkeys roost in trees at night? Totally crazy to see. Anyhow, I was scooting around the internet in between turns and decided to check out the Kate Spade Friends & Family Sale. A few minutes later and I saw the shoes. I feel in love. A new neutral. LOVE. I didn't want them to sell out of my size, so I used our walkie talkie.
"Hey, babe, have you bought my birthday present yet?"*
No
"Can I buy it?"
Come again?
"Well, there's this pair of shoes and I really like them and they are only on sale tonight and Ireallyreallyreallylike them..."
Fine.
"Great."
Can you get off the walkie talkies? I'm trying to hunt.
"Love you."
Roger.
*NB- We had just discussed the fact that I had nothing on my birthday list because what I wanted ended up being ridiculously priced. Like ridiculously ridiculous. What can I say? I have great taste?!
Postscript- No, he didn't get a turkey. Not due to the walkie talkie discussion...I don't think.
Monday Musings- the Marathon
I'm not a Runner, but I do run. I was watching updates from the Boston Marathon today, hoping Shalene Flanagan or Allyson Felix would win while reading updates on the Supreme Court case on genetic patents (I'm a dork). Yes, I was also working-I can multitask like a Boss. I was stunned to hear of the bombings at the Boston marathon. So stunned I couldn't think of anything else after hearing about it. Just like in December... I started thinking of those people, so excited to make it into the Boston marathon, training for that moment. I pictured their friends and families coming to support them...and, then I thought of my own little cheering squad and how much easier they make my race days. I thanked God that we never meet at the Finish line. Then wondered, is that enough anymore? Is anything enough anymore? Terror in the schools, in movie theaters, at a race. This is crazy. Absolutely crazy. I'm stunned and out of words.
I don't know if I should throw myself into running to show that I am not afraid. But, I am. Around New Year's Day, I read this personality test type of article where you plug in certain facts about yourself and it tells you your resolution for the year. Mine was to give up running. At the time I was already scheduled to run 2 half marathons in 2 months and I scoffed aloud. Of course I wasn't going to give up running this year! Now it seems like a good option. I won't, of course. I know the likelihood of anything like this happening again at a race is remote-there will be new security measures. But, it feels like running (for me) has been tarnished. I ran races because it was a fun way to set and reach goals. I just don't know what I want out of it now.
I guess I'm just trying to figure out what course to take. Until then, I will add those affected by today's bombings in Boston to my thoughts & prayers and hope that sending good karma can somehow help.
Edited to add: This story of the Tough Ruck team made my heart swell. There is, after all, more goodness than evil.
I guess I'm just trying to figure out what course to take. Until then, I will add those affected by today's bombings in Boston to my thoughts & prayers and hope that sending good karma can somehow help.
Edited to add: This story of the Tough Ruck team made my heart swell. There is, after all, more goodness than evil.
Monday Musings
I came home from a four day business trip from a very windy and cold Baltimore-and less than 12 hours later headed out to the property. That was some serious culture shock- Northern city on the water to rural Texas.
Baltimore was actually really cool (and COLD), but that town must have some sort of exclusivity agreement with Pepsi. I'm a Coke girl. It took me a day to find a place that served Coke or a convenience store that sold them! Two hotels- no Cokes. I don't drink coffee, so Coke is my caffeine and I was dragging from the early morning meetings and time change. But, man, the food was Amazing. And, I'm a food snob.
The girls and I went exploring looking for bluebonnets and found fairy houses, tons of cacti, even a "mini Grand Canyon," but sadly very few Bluebonnets. I guess last Fall was too dry for them. While we were exploring, we stopped by my husband's newest project- a wild hog trap. He told me to look for a new "white deer shed." OK. I thought it was bizarre that we wouldn't have seen a deer blind/shed before since we've had the property for a couple years now. But, off we went. The girls and I drove over where he told me it was and looked, and looked, and nothing. I told him we couldn't find anything. Later on he took us out to the spot where there was a white deer shed-antler! Like, when they outgrow their antlers--like these for $50. Seriously.
We stay in our cabin while we are at the Property. A short distance away is a shed. My husband was rummaging about in there looking for God knows what for his pig trap project when he found a BLACK WIDOW spider. WTH?? He told me, "Don't worry, Black Widows don't go into houses. Not like Brown Recluses." Oh, great. That is NOT helping. Obviously, I'm never going back.
Our Property has a number of "retro salvage" pieces on it- old glass, rusted cans, barbed wire, etc. We tell the girls that they get a quarter for every piece they find -mostly so old barbed wire won't poke holes in our tires. This weekend they made over $3.00 each. Quite a racket! I'm sure we could Craigslist some of our "finds" for more than a quarter considering deer antlers are going for $50!
Speaking of Craigslist, I'm in the midst of spray painting an awesome dresser I found on Craigslist. I think I'm probably the most talented spray painter ever- I can get spray paint on the bottom of my feet. I have no idea.
Baltimore was actually really cool (and COLD), but that town must have some sort of exclusivity agreement with Pepsi. I'm a Coke girl. It took me a day to find a place that served Coke or a convenience store that sold them! Two hotels- no Cokes. I don't drink coffee, so Coke is my caffeine and I was dragging from the early morning meetings and time change. But, man, the food was Amazing. And, I'm a food snob.
The girls and I went exploring looking for bluebonnets and found fairy houses, tons of cacti, even a "mini Grand Canyon," but sadly very few Bluebonnets. I guess last Fall was too dry for them. While we were exploring, we stopped by my husband's newest project- a wild hog trap. He told me to look for a new "white deer shed." OK. I thought it was bizarre that we wouldn't have seen a deer blind/shed before since we've had the property for a couple years now. But, off we went. The girls and I drove over where he told me it was and looked, and looked, and nothing. I told him we couldn't find anything. Later on he took us out to the spot where there was a white deer shed-antler! Like, when they outgrow their antlers--like these for $50. Seriously.
We stay in our cabin while we are at the Property. A short distance away is a shed. My husband was rummaging about in there looking for God knows what for his pig trap project when he found a BLACK WIDOW spider. WTH?? He told me, "Don't worry, Black Widows don't go into houses. Not like Brown Recluses." Oh, great. That is NOT helping. Obviously, I'm never going back.
Our Property has a number of "retro salvage" pieces on it- old glass, rusted cans, barbed wire, etc. We tell the girls that they get a quarter for every piece they find -mostly so old barbed wire won't poke holes in our tires. This weekend they made over $3.00 each. Quite a racket! I'm sure we could Craigslist some of our "finds" for more than a quarter considering deer antlers are going for $50!
Speaking of Craigslist, I'm in the midst of spray painting an awesome dresser I found on Craigslist. I think I'm probably the most talented spray painter ever- I can get spray paint on the bottom of my feet. I have no idea.
Habemus Papum
My faith and spirituality are incredibly important to me. I really love being Catholic; kind of weird, but true. It's an important faith tradition that I pass to my children. While I do not agree with everything my Church teaches, I believe in the Faith, the Sacraments, and the unique aspects of my religion. One of my fondest memories is attending Mass with Pope John Paul II at the Vatican. It wasn't a private audience, but it was impressive and he extended blessings upon me and my family. Being in Rome as a Catholic...it's just an amazing experience. Anyhow, I've followed the retirement of Pope Benedict and the resulting papal conclave with great interest. Basically, I've read just about anything written on the subject in the past month. I was glued to the Internet when the white smoke came and watched the balcony for the first glimpse of the new Pope. Pope Francis! I was surprised. I hoped for a South American or African pope. I was convinced that Cardinal Scherer would be a front runner (for all we know, he was). Bergoglio wasn't even on my list. Shows what I know. Anyhow, I think a Pope from the Americas is a great signal and an incremental step to more progressive changes (this is a 2,000 year old church, we move in baby steps).
Today, I am happy to have witnessed the papal transition. In honor of Pope Francis and the awesome service he now performs, I intend to pray the prayer of St. Francis-at least until Easter.
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
and where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled as to console;
to be understood as to understand;
to be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive;
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen
Today, I am happy to have witnessed the papal transition. In honor of Pope Francis and the awesome service he now performs, I intend to pray the prayer of St. Francis-at least until Easter.
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
and where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled as to console;
to be understood as to understand;
to be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive;
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen
Monday Musings
I have to tell you about this baby shower I went to for a friend of mine. My friend is expecting her first child and most of her friends are new moms themselves. It's so funny to see all these new moms and first time moms to be now-eight years after I was one. I just wanted to sit everybody down, give them a glass of wine, and very forcefully (but politely) tell them to "Chill Out." I mean, they stressed me out. One lady was shocked that her 2 year old daughter came home from day care and said the word "Princess." Shocked! I mean, she never lets her play with gender specific toys, and only gives her superhero toys, and there is no pink, and she shows her daughter the President's picture every day. Um, yeaahhhh. You're going to need to Chill the F out. Also, shouldn't you be showing her Elizabeth Cady Stanton or Eleanor Roosevelt or Margaret Thatcher's picture? If you're going to quiz your toddler daughter, use the right public figure-Gah! (Kidding, I think it's RIDICULOUS to flashcard toddlers.) At least wait until they are 4. Kidding.
There were a lot of fun parts too, like discovering Izze soda. Hello, delicious. Why hasn't anyone told me about this before? Yummy. Slightly addicted.
Also, slightly addicted to Craigslist. I got another great piece of furniture for the bonus room this weekend. Despite my husband's grumbling, "But whhhhy do we need another dresser? We can just move things around." Until my daughter said, "Daddy, mommy wants a new style." From the mouths of babes.
There were a lot of fun parts too, like discovering Izze soda. Hello, delicious. Why hasn't anyone told me about this before? Yummy. Slightly addicted.
Also, slightly addicted to Craigslist. I got another great piece of furniture for the bonus room this weekend. Despite my husband's grumbling, "But whhhhy do we need another dresser? We can just move things around." Until my daughter said, "Daddy, mommy wants a new style." From the mouths of babes.
Monday Musings
I've been gone and doing things like catching a couple Mahi Mahi (Dorado) off the coast of Mexico, traveling for work, and finishing my 5th half marathon. So, I have thoughts-let's dive right in.
I've been in airports so much lately that I got a little cocky. I packed for my last business trip in record time, got everything arranged, flew through my flights, had a great day of meetings, and then noticed that I left ALL my toiletries in another state.
The Nashville airport is a little laid back Hollywood. Last week's celebrity sighting was Eric Close (Connie Britton's character's husband in "Nashville"). So cute and laid back. He was in my TSA line. So, apparently Stars fly on Southwest too!
Traveling so often makes me really dislike people who don't. You know, the ones who get in the security line and are SHOCKED that they can't bring liquids through.
On that note, I am totally grossed out by people who walk through security in their bare feet. That is disgusting. Who knows what has happened on that floor.
Since I've started traveling so much, I've read more books in the last four months than I have in the past couple of years. My favorite is "Unbroken," completely gripping.
It's Girl Scout cookie time. At this moment we have 4 boxes of different cookies open. I believe in buying in bulk and my daughter's troop is very glad about that!
The best part of any 1/2 marathon is when I see my husband and kids. The race I ran was smaller, so there were hardly any spectators which is a bummer. Seeing my family and their handmade sign really kept me moving.
I miss Mass to run and the Pope resigns?! Ok, I get the memo!
I've been in airports so much lately that I got a little cocky. I packed for my last business trip in record time, got everything arranged, flew through my flights, had a great day of meetings, and then noticed that I left ALL my toiletries in another state.
The Nashville airport is a little laid back Hollywood. Last week's celebrity sighting was Eric Close (Connie Britton's character's husband in "Nashville"). So cute and laid back. He was in my TSA line. So, apparently Stars fly on Southwest too!
Traveling so often makes me really dislike people who don't. You know, the ones who get in the security line and are SHOCKED that they can't bring liquids through.
On that note, I am totally grossed out by people who walk through security in their bare feet. That is disgusting. Who knows what has happened on that floor.
Since I've started traveling so much, I've read more books in the last four months than I have in the past couple of years. My favorite is "Unbroken," completely gripping.
It's Girl Scout cookie time. At this moment we have 4 boxes of different cookies open. I believe in buying in bulk and my daughter's troop is very glad about that!
The best part of any 1/2 marathon is when I see my husband and kids. The race I ran was smaller, so there were hardly any spectators which is a bummer. Seeing my family and their handmade sign really kept me moving.
I miss Mass to run and the Pope resigns?! Ok, I get the memo!
Friday Favorites-the list version
I couldn't let another Friday go by without sharing some of the things that are on my awesome list right now.
Well, hello pretty, perfect boots. I love you so. No surprise that these are L.K. Bennett. I have had such GREAT luck with L.K. Bennett shoes. Easily some of the best shoes I've bought. Plus, if you get on the store list, they'll call you when they have insane deals on shoes-ahem...
The HIT of our Christmas, the doll hair salon chairs my friend Amanda bought for our girls. MANY hours have been spent playing with this set. It's from Target's version of American Girl dolls and fits the AG dolls perfectly. Next to the Justice! (emphasis theirs, that place was-well, I'll never get that hour back) and American Girl gift cards Santa brought, these were THE hit. Speaking of American Girl dolls, this story is awesome, found via the Fug Girls.
I love these new covered books from Penguin, the Penguin Drop Caps Series.
Monday Musings
SEE LES MISERABLES the movie. That's it.
Just kidding, you should also download the album and listen to it on repeat like I have been doing. Better yet, run with it on your ipod and run while singing and miming the music like I may have (definitely have) been doing. Dude, if Anne and Hugh are gonna sing it, I'm gonna sing it!!
Seriously, see that movie. It is more than a movie, it is an experience. I need you to see it so I can dissect it because it was awesome (except a couple of glaring casting issues).
I've seen more movies and read more books in the past two weeks than in the past year. All thanks to my husband taking the kids for a few days of daddy time. Whoo! (No school combined with no PTO for me = daddy time) I think he's trying to make up for all the millions of weekends he left me with toddlers while he hunted. Ahem...not bitter...
I haven't worked on any big projects lately other than finishing the photo books in time for Christmas. That seemed like a major feat at the time. I also lost and then found (go me!) our honeymoon pictures. I've got mad organizational skills.
Now that I have a few half marathons under my belt, my friends seem to think I'm a "Runner." This past weekend, another friend asked me to join her run all night teams. Why do my friends keep asking me to do that? Why would I want to run 6 miles, then ride in a van for hours on end to do it again and repeat? And you sleep in the van? And eat in the van? No, thanks.
I have a theory on "runners" with a little "r" (that's me), versus "Runners" with a big "R," that's people who like to run all night and drive around in team vans. Runners be crazy and runners usually finish but are always mildly put off by Runners and how Serious they are about everything. Ha. But, yeah, a runner does not equal a Runner.
I have lots of theories, like don't trust people who name their kids all the same letters. Example 1- *&rd-shians. Ugh.
I bought myself this for Christmas, and my husband and parents did NOT get it. Wonder what they'll say when I get these? I'm thinking Orange.
Just kidding, you should also download the album and listen to it on repeat like I have been doing. Better yet, run with it on your ipod and run while singing and miming the music like I may have (definitely have) been doing. Dude, if Anne and Hugh are gonna sing it, I'm gonna sing it!!
Seriously, see that movie. It is more than a movie, it is an experience. I need you to see it so I can dissect it because it was awesome (except a couple of glaring casting issues).
I've seen more movies and read more books in the past two weeks than in the past year. All thanks to my husband taking the kids for a few days of daddy time. Whoo! (No school combined with no PTO for me = daddy time) I think he's trying to make up for all the millions of weekends he left me with toddlers while he hunted. Ahem...not bitter...
I haven't worked on any big projects lately other than finishing the photo books in time for Christmas. That seemed like a major feat at the time. I also lost and then found (go me!) our honeymoon pictures. I've got mad organizational skills.
Now that I have a few half marathons under my belt, my friends seem to think I'm a "Runner." This past weekend, another friend asked me to join her run all night teams. Why do my friends keep asking me to do that? Why would I want to run 6 miles, then ride in a van for hours on end to do it again and repeat? And you sleep in the van? And eat in the van? No, thanks.
I have a theory on "runners" with a little "r" (that's me), versus "Runners" with a big "R," that's people who like to run all night and drive around in team vans. Runners be crazy and runners usually finish but are always mildly put off by Runners and how Serious they are about everything. Ha. But, yeah, a runner does not equal a Runner.
I have lots of theories, like don't trust people who name their kids all the same letters. Example 1- *&rd-shians. Ugh.
I bought myself this for Christmas, and my husband and parents did NOT get it. Wonder what they'll say when I get these? I'm thinking Orange.
Good-Bye December
I usually love December. Christmas is my favorite time of the year, even more so now that we have children. I love all our traditions, the lights, the songs, the anticipation. This year, I felt a bit off. I was just getting in the groove when the terrible tragedy occurred in Newtown. I couldn't think. Not for days. I couldn't process it. I'm not going to write about the tragedy because I still can't form all my thoughts. I don't have words for the pain and anguish those parents and families are going through, the trauma the survivors will face...it's too much. Many others have written more eloquently than I could. I tried keeping things normal for my kids (they still don't know, just that we've been praying for families in Connecticut who need our prayers), but I know they'll never be normal again.
We had a typical crazy, fun, busy Christmas season. We had another American Girl explosion and are capping off December with a short trip to our Property. I've already had to clean up squirrel poop from a squirrel who was apparently pooping his little pea brain out as he tried getting out of the cabin. I hate squirrels. On the upside, no mice. hooray. Sigh.
So, Good-bye December and take your pooping squirrels with you.
We had a typical crazy, fun, busy Christmas season. We had another American Girl explosion and are capping off December with a short trip to our Property. I've already had to clean up squirrel poop from a squirrel who was apparently pooping his little pea brain out as he tried getting out of the cabin. I hate squirrels. On the upside, no mice. hooray. Sigh.
So, Good-bye December and take your pooping squirrels with you.
Monday Musings
As with most of our free weekends in the fall, my husband took our oldest daughter Em hunting this weekend. They've spent several weeks trying to get her first deer. They even went hunting on our Thanksgiving vacation to the Carolinas. They went out to our Property where she fittingly shot her first deer (strange that there is not a place in her baby book for first deer).
I now have a deer head in a cooler in my garage. Let me repeat that, I have a deer head in a cooler in my garage. I've come to terms that hunting is part of our family life, but let me state for the record that I am not OK with deer heads.
Apparently there will now be antlers in the decor of the girls' room.
We decorated for Christmas this weekend-which means I handle the inside and my husband handles the outside. I think he got the better end of the deal. We have A LOT of Christmas decorations. Which, as he puts it, may be sort of silly since "nobody sees the inside except us." LOTS of decorations. Getting them all out of storage (and a tree) totally counted for my weekend work-out. This is another reason to leave my Christmas decor up until Epiphany. It takes too long to put up, I don't want to take it down!
I am really proud that I've bought almost all our Christmas gifts this season. With one small caveat, I bought a couple of toys online on super duper sale and failed to note the dimensions. Those boxes are ginormous. Whoops. Shipping is going to be a pain. Our friends may just have to wait to get those gifts until we see them!
You know what is almost impossible to find? Cute, age appropriate holiday dresses for 8 year old girls. Holy shopping, batman. I have been to the ends of the Internet and back. Thankfully, my mom offered to buy the girls' dresses, so I leave it entirely up to her. (I wanted blue plaid dresses, which you can find very easily-for 5T and under!- Pffft).
I visited Emily in her newly done house this weekend. She joins the ranks of those friends I have whose houses should be in a magazine. Emily has serious decorating skills. Even her shelves are perfectly done. I noticed she missed one trend- no antlers or deer heads in her house! Or, maybe that's just my house...
I now have a deer head in a cooler in my garage. Let me repeat that, I have a deer head in a cooler in my garage. I've come to terms that hunting is part of our family life, but let me state for the record that I am not OK with deer heads.
Apparently there will now be antlers in the decor of the girls' room.
We decorated for Christmas this weekend-which means I handle the inside and my husband handles the outside. I think he got the better end of the deal. We have A LOT of Christmas decorations. Which, as he puts it, may be sort of silly since "nobody sees the inside except us." LOTS of decorations. Getting them all out of storage (and a tree) totally counted for my weekend work-out. This is another reason to leave my Christmas decor up until Epiphany. It takes too long to put up, I don't want to take it down!
I am really proud that I've bought almost all our Christmas gifts this season. With one small caveat, I bought a couple of toys online on super duper sale and failed to note the dimensions. Those boxes are ginormous. Whoops. Shipping is going to be a pain. Our friends may just have to wait to get those gifts until we see them!
You know what is almost impossible to find? Cute, age appropriate holiday dresses for 8 year old girls. Holy shopping, batman. I have been to the ends of the Internet and back. Thankfully, my mom offered to buy the girls' dresses, so I leave it entirely up to her. (I wanted blue plaid dresses, which you can find very easily-for 5T and under!- Pffft).
I visited Emily in her newly done house this weekend. She joins the ranks of those friends I have whose houses should be in a magazine. Emily has serious decorating skills. Even her shelves are perfectly done. I noticed she missed one trend- no antlers or deer heads in her house! Or, maybe that's just my house...
The Worst Run Ever
On Mondays, I usually muse. Nothing to muse about today. Only definites. I definitely need to write this down so I never make the same mistake again. I definitely had the worst run ever Sunday. I definitely will never run another race sick. I definitely will not run another race unprepared (even if I have stupidly done that in the past). I definitely will only run races with lots of port o potty options- seriously, San Antonio, we waited for at least 4 minutes to pee. Unacceptable. Sunday I "ran" the Rock n Roll Half Marathon in San Antonio. It was my worst race ever. I ran the 1/2 slower than I've ever run; closer to 3 hours than to the 2:30 I thought I'd run. Blech.
I was sick, ill prepared, and not nearly determined enough to make it to the finish line. I have lots of reasons things went downhill. It boils down to- I wasn't trained or ready. I ran a race sick and that was a stupid idea. I barely made it to the finish line and only because our friend was there to hold me up throughout the entire race. I wish you could see the race pictures, there is one shot where I look like I am either about to cry or murder someone. I thought about both, but didn't have the energy to do either.
I'm hoping that since I've now reached the bottom (I really couldn't run much slower), I'll turn over some fabulously fast leaf and run like the wind from now on. Ha ha ha. Nope, really I just want it in writing so I remember how terrible Sunday was so I never run sick or unprepared again. As God as my witness, I will never be so stupid (about running) again.
I was sick, ill prepared, and not nearly determined enough to make it to the finish line. I have lots of reasons things went downhill. It boils down to- I wasn't trained or ready. I ran a race sick and that was a stupid idea. I barely made it to the finish line and only because our friend was there to hold me up throughout the entire race. I wish you could see the race pictures, there is one shot where I look like I am either about to cry or murder someone. I thought about both, but didn't have the energy to do either.
I'm hoping that since I've now reached the bottom (I really couldn't run much slower), I'll turn over some fabulously fast leaf and run like the wind from now on. Ha ha ha. Nope, really I just want it in writing so I remember how terrible Sunday was so I never run sick or unprepared again. As God as my witness, I will never be so stupid (about running) again.
Monday Musings
My husband went on yet another hunting trip this week.
Apparently there are more animals that need to be hunted; I doubt this claim.
On Saturday, he texted me a picture of the 245 pound buck he shot. The girls and I were on
the way to American Girl Café…story of my life.
Upon seeing the picture of the great hunter and his prey, Em
started dancing around singing “Daddy got a deer. Daddy got a big deer.” M
looked at the picture and said “Ewww, gross.”
Last season must have been a big pheasant season for my husband. I decorated for fall with pheasant feathers in everything-urns, vases and wreaths, and I still have handfuls left over.
Last season must have been a big pheasant season for my husband. I decorated for fall with pheasant feathers in everything-urns, vases and wreaths, and I still have handfuls left over.
The American Girl Café was just as fun as last time. The
girls enjoyed themselves immensely. Totally worth calling 3 months ago for a reservation.
Yes, 3 months!
Both girls bought their American Girl items out of their own allowances. The salesclerk was so nice to sit and wait through all the pennies.
My husband's 20th college reunion is this weekend. Since he works out of the house, he doesn't have many suits, slacks, etc. We went shopping last week and it was so much fun! Like Pretty Woman in reverse. I got to pull whatever shirts, pants, jeans I liked and he tried them on. I told him, "We should have done this years ago." I don't think he had as much fun as I did.
One of the things he bought is a BOSS suit jacket. He doesn't think it is quite as funny as I do when I tell him "Like a BOSS" every time he wears it ala Joseph Gordon Levitt on Jimmy Fallon. But, it really is funny. Really.
My husband's 20th college reunion is this weekend. Since he works out of the house, he doesn't have many suits, slacks, etc. We went shopping last week and it was so much fun! Like Pretty Woman in reverse. I got to pull whatever shirts, pants, jeans I liked and he tried them on. I told him, "We should have done this years ago." I don't think he had as much fun as I did.
One of the things he bought is a BOSS suit jacket. He doesn't think it is quite as funny as I do when I tell him "Like a BOSS" every time he wears it ala Joseph Gordon Levitt on Jimmy Fallon. But, it really is funny. Really.
My big big life of leisure plans took an unexpected turn
Friday when M had to stay home sick from school. Oh well, at least I didn’t
have to freak out about arranging childcare. The other unexpected turn happened
when I got sick Saturday. Really sick. Super fun. Oh well, at least I didn’t
have to take the day off.
Friday Favorite- Life of Leisure
I've spent the past week enjoying time off in between jobs. What a blessing. I've done all most the errands I never have time to accomplish. Did you know that grocery shopping on a Tuesday mid-morning goes super fast?! It's freeing. More importantly, I've gotten to eat lunch with my girls, read to the class, and be there to pick them up after school. I've really enjoyed spending those little bits of extra time with my girls. I know the end of my free time/life of leisure will be here all too soon. I'm really trying to relish every free minute I get. I've also learned a lot-there is a whole sub-society of school moms and their understood ways of doing things. Whoa. Eye opening. The only drawback so far has been trying to ignore all the Halloween candy calling my name. I need to go and try to cross some more items off the TO-DO free time list (and avoid bite sized candy bars)! Have a great weekend.
My current (but quickly going away) Life of Leisure is my Friday Favorite!
My current (but quickly going away) Life of Leisure is my Friday Favorite!
Monday Musings
I'd like to know if teachers assign home projects just to mess with parents. We are on the 4th project of the school year. It is really an enjoyable way to spend each evening and part of the weekend. Oy. If you have an elementary aged kid, stock up on posterboard and glue sticks.
Not to bury the lead or anything- but I GOT A NEW JOB. I have one week left at my current job and then get to take some time off before starting a great new job. I knew I was stressed out, but didn't realize how incredibly stressed out I was until I got a new job. Holy smokes. (Hi, Jessica if you're reading. I will miss you!)
Also, I am firmly on the jeans and a blazer every day to work train. No client meetings + less than a week left = jeans. Ha.
I'm so excited about starting on a long list of "never have times"- like furniture rehab, a l-o-n-g list of projects, ironing, going through photo albums, cleaning closets, watching movies, working out whenever I want to, going for long runs during the day. I can NOT wait.
I went running this weekend and managed to not break, strain, or sprain anything. I view that as a major accomplishment. Thank you KT Tape.
This weekend, I achieved a parenting feat we all look forward to- I was the "best mommy ever" and it was M's "favorite day ever" on Saturday. By Sunday I became the "meanest mommy ever." M is prone to exaggeration.
Sunday I rediscovered the real reason we Catholics have wine at Mass. No, not the miracle of transubstantiation. It's because you might consider drinking by that point in Mass. Yes, my children were a special kind of embarassing during Mass.
Not to bury the lead or anything- but I GOT A NEW JOB. I have one week left at my current job and then get to take some time off before starting a great new job. I knew I was stressed out, but didn't realize how incredibly stressed out I was until I got a new job. Holy smokes. (Hi, Jessica if you're reading. I will miss you!)
Also, I am firmly on the jeans and a blazer every day to work train. No client meetings + less than a week left = jeans. Ha.
I'm so excited about starting on a long list of "never have times"- like furniture rehab, a l-o-n-g list of projects, ironing, going through photo albums, cleaning closets, watching movies, working out whenever I want to, going for long runs during the day. I can NOT wait.
I went running this weekend and managed to not break, strain, or sprain anything. I view that as a major accomplishment. Thank you KT Tape.
This weekend, I achieved a parenting feat we all look forward to- I was the "best mommy ever" and it was M's "favorite day ever" on Saturday. By Sunday I became the "meanest mommy ever." M is prone to exaggeration.
Sunday I rediscovered the real reason we Catholics have wine at Mass. No, not the miracle of transubstantiation. It's because you might consider drinking by that point in Mass. Yes, my children were a special kind of embarassing during Mass.
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