I miss working every day at a "real" job. Don't misunderstand me - I LOVE being at home with Tiegan. I love the time we spend together, and that I have all the spare time in the world to give her extra special attention.
But I miss providing, and having something to do away from home every day. I really hope the photography business picks back up along with the warm weather in spring. I like to stay busy. It keeps me motivated; gives me a reason to take a shower at 8am instead of noon. Having a morning routine always kept me active throughout the entire day. I would like to be more like my mother in that regard. She always got up early, made her own healthy breakfast on the stove (blueberry oatmeal, mmm), headed off to work, and came home to tidy up the house. There is something just as fulfilling about being a working mom, and I kinda miss being so exhausted by bedtime that I actually sleep all night.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Friday, February 27, 2009
Mom2Mom Sale
If you are avid Craigslisters, you probably already know about this... but I just wanted to share.
I got wind of a spring Mom2Mom sale happening in Lansing, and it's going to be huge. Here are the details:
I got wind of a spring Mom2Mom sale happening in Lansing, and it's going to be huge. Here are the details:
When: May 2, 9am-1pm
Where: Waverly High School
160 Snow Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Admission: $2.00 entry fee
Where: Waverly High School
160 Snow Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Admission: $2.00 entry fee
Apparently all the tables/booths are sold out so it's going to be a PACKED sale. I realize it's a couple months away, but it always helps to make plans early, especially if you know you're going to be fighting a crowd.
Check out some photos from past sales here, to get an idea of what this could be like. Hope to see you there!
Check out some photos from past sales here, to get an idea of what this could be like. Hope to see you there!
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Faux Posh
It's official. I'm learning how to sew. Right. Now.
Have you ever heard of the website Posh Tots? It's great. They have fabulous furniture and bedding and accessories and baby & child gear up the wazoo. But it's all stylish. Non-cartoony.
The only drawback is... it's pricey. Oh yeah. REALLY pricey. [For a budget of my constraints, at least!]
So, I am determined to start visiting the fabric store, and my mom's house for the use of her lovely sewing machine and sewing expertise. Because I'm fed up with seeing Winnie the Pooh and Precious Moments crib bedding everywhere. I'm sick of looking at Tiegan's bedspread plastered with Snow White, Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella's faces. I don't like knowing that with each overpriced item having a famous cartoon character's face on it, my child is growing ever-obsessed with something that is created and marketed just so we'll buy more overpriced things with this character's face on it. Dig?
I'm determined to copy these lovely, neutral, stylish things at a fraction of the cost:
Isn't the black & white damask just to die for? I think it would be great with the light green accents we already have going on in Sofia's room. Besides, I don't want anything too girly or pink. Poor Jason has enough of that stuff to look at every day!
And this, I think, would be great for Tiegan's room.
Have you ever heard of the website Posh Tots? It's great. They have fabulous furniture and bedding and accessories and baby & child gear up the wazoo. But it's all stylish. Non-cartoony.
The only drawback is... it's pricey. Oh yeah. REALLY pricey. [For a budget of my constraints, at least!]
So, I am determined to start visiting the fabric store, and my mom's house for the use of her lovely sewing machine and sewing expertise. Because I'm fed up with seeing Winnie the Pooh and Precious Moments crib bedding everywhere. I'm sick of looking at Tiegan's bedspread plastered with Snow White, Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella's faces. I don't like knowing that with each overpriced item having a famous cartoon character's face on it, my child is growing ever-obsessed with something that is created and marketed just so we'll buy more overpriced things with this character's face on it. Dig?
I'm determined to copy these lovely, neutral, stylish things at a fraction of the cost:
Isn't the black & white damask just to die for? I think it would be great with the light green accents we already have going on in Sofia's room. Besides, I don't want anything too girly or pink. Poor Jason has enough of that stuff to look at every day!
And this, I think, would be great for Tiegan's room.
And for those of you without kids, or just wanting to copy some of the luxury items they have for grown-ups, check out the Mother Site: PoshLiving.com.
Foggy Sunrise Re-Designs
Suffering from a bit of boredom yesterday as Tiegan napped and Jason played video games, I designed new blog layouts for both Jason's and my own. What do you think?
Here's Jason's.
I just love a foggy sunrise in the winter.
Here's Jason's.
I just love a foggy sunrise in the winter.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Put a little love in your heart
Tiegan loves giving my belly hugs and kisses. She was sitting on my lap (facing me) and we were just having a little chat about her day. One of my favorite things to do. She asked if she could give Sofia Quinn a hug and kiss. It's the sweetest feeling. That girl has so much love in her heart.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Whipping out the Rubber Gloves
Today is a "me" day. Tiegan is spending the day with Judy, as she takes her to tumbling class at 5 and ballet at 5:30 Tuesdays. (I personally think it's too much for a 3 year old... one class is enough, but she was signed up without our permission -- a long story, and something I was really heated about so I refrain from talking about it).
Anyway, I'm taking advantage of this "me" day in the best way I can. I'm CLEANING. I know, can you believe it?
I won't even take "before" photos of the house because, well, it's just too embarrassing. Jason and I have been under the weather for over a week now, and the house is really seeing the effects. Dishes everywhere, tissues littered about, glasses half-full of water, laundry here & there... oh it's a sight.
I was even thinking about rearranging the living room, but I think I'll save that for a day when I have some help. Unlike when I shoveled 12" of snow from the driveway when I was pregnant with Tiegan, I know my boundaries this time. I'm trying really hard to refrain from snowblowing the sidewalk to the driveway at this very moment.
So instead, I'm turning off the furnace, cracking the windows (yes, at 30 degrees), cranking up the music, putting a bandana over my hair, possibly even putting on an apron... and going to town making my house beautiful again.
Anyway, I'm taking advantage of this "me" day in the best way I can. I'm CLEANING. I know, can you believe it?
I won't even take "before" photos of the house because, well, it's just too embarrassing. Jason and I have been under the weather for over a week now, and the house is really seeing the effects. Dishes everywhere, tissues littered about, glasses half-full of water, laundry here & there... oh it's a sight.
I was even thinking about rearranging the living room, but I think I'll save that for a day when I have some help. Unlike when I shoveled 12" of snow from the driveway when I was pregnant with Tiegan, I know my boundaries this time. I'm trying really hard to refrain from snowblowing the sidewalk to the driveway at this very moment.
So instead, I'm turning off the furnace, cracking the windows (yes, at 30 degrees), cranking up the music, putting a bandana over my hair, possibly even putting on an apron... and going to town making my house beautiful again.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Portarmi Via
As cheesy as it is, love. LOVE. this movie.
It makes me want to drop my whole life here (as if I had a life) and whisk us all off to Italy. I want to be as fabulous as Diane Lane's character when I'm in my 40's, and I hope to have had an adventure half as amazing as hers.
Doesn't this shot make you want to buy a villa in Tuscany and ride a Vespa to Positano on the weekends? Oh, and I want to start wearing dresses like this... after Sofia is born, of course...
Doesn't this shot make you want to buy a villa in Tuscany and ride a Vespa to Positano on the weekends? Oh, and I want to start wearing dresses like this... after Sofia is born, of course...
Name That Baby
I think we've done it... we are just a little over halfway to my due date, and we have decided on a name for girl #2!
Introducing...
Sofia Quinn!
Introducing...
Sofia Quinn!
Sunday, February 22, 2009
The Perfect Snack
We found an afternoon snack that Tiegan loves... and the proof is in the smile on her face.
Also, I will be sad when Tiegan outgrows these cute little tights. I can't remember where we got them. She's been able to wear them the past year or so, but they're just starting to get too snug. The grey wool jumper was mine when I was her age. Neat, huh?
Interview with Tiegan, Part II
Tiegan had so much fun being "interviewed" the other day that she asked if we could do it again soon. I came up with a set of my own questions, geared more toward her likes/dislikes. This is going to be great stuff for the keepsake book.
What is your favorite color? Blue.
What do you like to do by yourself? Play Little Einsteins matching cards game. You have a cool pen there, Mommy. OK That’s enough writing with your cool pen!
How big are you? THIIIIS big (hand to forehead)
What are you going to be when you grow up? A doctor!
What do doctors do? They listen to heartbeats.
What is your favorite toy? Hmm… (takes a minute and looks at all her toys) A dump truck!
But you don’t have a dump truck. Oh. My magic drawing board then.
What is something you’re proud of? Having free toys when I race with Roary the Racing Car.
Who is your best friend? Gram Sheli, Pa Lee and my cats!
If you could be anywhere right now where would you be? At Grandma Judy’s with Pa and Grandma Judy at Bob Evans.
How do you use a computer? By typing on the keys and controlling the mouse. (Taps fingers on coffee table). But Mommy, how do you stop using it? Is it the blue button?
Yes, that turns the computer off. Oh, I was right!
What is something you have learned? High school!
What do you mean? Yeah my dancing class.
What is your favorite book? Reading about airplanes at Boppy’s house. Vrrrrmmmmmmm!!
What is your favorite song? Twinkle Twinkle, and this is how it goes (Sings entire song and takes a bow after Mommy’s applause)
What would you buy if you had $1.00? Cereal.
What kind? Cocoa Puffs and Apple Jacks. And I’d mix them together.
What is your favorite TV Show? Caillou!
Why’s that? Because I love Caillou because he makes different pizzas. Oh, my phone’s ringing! (picks up toy cell phone) Are we done here?
Yes, we’re finished, thank you. You’re welcome! Bye! (picks up toy phone and pretends to talk to Daddy)
What is your favorite color? Blue.
What do you like to do by yourself? Play Little Einsteins matching cards game. You have a cool pen there, Mommy. OK That’s enough writing with your cool pen!
How big are you? THIIIIS big (hand to forehead)
What are you going to be when you grow up? A doctor!
What do doctors do? They listen to heartbeats.
What is your favorite toy? Hmm… (takes a minute and looks at all her toys) A dump truck!
But you don’t have a dump truck. Oh. My magic drawing board then.
What is something you’re proud of? Having free toys when I race with Roary the Racing Car.
Who is your best friend? Gram Sheli, Pa Lee and my cats!
If you could be anywhere right now where would you be? At Grandma Judy’s with Pa and Grandma Judy at Bob Evans.
How do you use a computer? By typing on the keys and controlling the mouse. (Taps fingers on coffee table). But Mommy, how do you stop using it? Is it the blue button?
Yes, that turns the computer off. Oh, I was right!
What is something you have learned? High school!
What do you mean? Yeah my dancing class.
What is your favorite book? Reading about airplanes at Boppy’s house. Vrrrrmmmmmmm!!
What is your favorite song? Twinkle Twinkle, and this is how it goes (Sings entire song and takes a bow after Mommy’s applause)
What would you buy if you had $1.00? Cereal.
What kind? Cocoa Puffs and Apple Jacks. And I’d mix them together.
What is your favorite TV Show? Caillou!
Why’s that? Because I love Caillou because he makes different pizzas. Oh, my phone’s ringing! (picks up toy cell phone) Are we done here?
Yes, we’re finished, thank you. You’re welcome! Bye! (picks up toy phone and pretends to talk to Daddy)
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Hard Work Pays Off
Hi there. Me again.
I've been meaning, but keep forgetting, to blog about some of Tiegan's recent accomplishments!
I've been meaning, but keep forgetting, to blog about some of Tiegan's recent accomplishments!
- I think the potty training phase is pretty much complete. Finally! The only type of "accident" she's had in the past few days was actually a false alarm - so she still tried but just couldn't go. We put her in pull-ups if we have a long trip to take, but I think she's ready for regular undies 100% of the time, very soon!
- No. More. Bink. I cannot tell you how ecstatic I am about this! We promised ourselves she would be weaned of the pacifier by age 2, but she just wasn't ready to give it up at the time. We valued our sleep enough to let it soothe her at nighttime (and ONLY nighttime) for a while longer. She continued to need it through the turmoil of Jason and I separating, and I thought she'd be able to kick it soon after we got back together. Nah, she was still closely attached. We decided 3rd birthday was the absolute cut-off. We went through a couple nights with very little sleep, and 1 or 2 rough naptimes, but that was it. She's been bink-free for about a week now and I'm so proud she is finally able to sleep on her own without help! She sleeps a lot lighter now, and tosses frequently, but she'll find other ways to soothe herself and will be back to normal in no time.
Bloody Nose, Logic & Attitude
What is it, Day #3? And I'm still socked in. This is the weirdest "cold" I've ever had. I put quotes around "cold" because I don't think it's a common cold but I'm not sure what else it could be. I started out with what felt like a sinus infection and now it's rapidly moving down into my chest.
And did I mention I'm getting bloody noses from my nasal spray?
Too bad my nephew's 2nd Birthday party is today. I would be so upset to miss it, but I don't want to share whatever this is with him and the whole fam. I did already see him and my sis last night, but they have family coming in from out of town and how awful would it be to share with all of them?
Anyway...
I think I am starting to figure out where Tiegan inherits some of her traits from. Jason often pokes fun at me for making no sense (mostly when I'm pregnant - I swear my brain flips upside down and backwards when I'm growing a baby). And I poke right back at him for having an attitude.
1. Yesterday, as Tiegan was crashing on the couch at naptime, she asked me to turn the TV off because it was hurting her eyes. So I did. Once she was out, I turned my show back on. When she woke up [2 hours later], the first thing she did was SCREAM at me: "HEY, I TOLD you to turn the TV OFF!!"
2. This morning during breakfast, Tiegan said, "I'm cooold. Can I have something warm to drink?"
So naturally, I said "well finish up your breakfast and hop under the blanket!"
Her reply: "But if I finish all my breakfast can I have some ice cream?"
Um... I thought you were cold?
She must get her logic from me. And her attitude from Jason.
And did I mention I'm getting bloody noses from my nasal spray?
Too bad my nephew's 2nd Birthday party is today. I would be so upset to miss it, but I don't want to share whatever this is with him and the whole fam. I did already see him and my sis last night, but they have family coming in from out of town and how awful would it be to share with all of them?
Anyway...
I think I am starting to figure out where Tiegan inherits some of her traits from. Jason often pokes fun at me for making no sense (mostly when I'm pregnant - I swear my brain flips upside down and backwards when I'm growing a baby). And I poke right back at him for having an attitude.
1. Yesterday, as Tiegan was crashing on the couch at naptime, she asked me to turn the TV off because it was hurting her eyes. So I did. Once she was out, I turned my show back on. When she woke up [2 hours later], the first thing she did was SCREAM at me: "HEY, I TOLD you to turn the TV OFF!!"
2. This morning during breakfast, Tiegan said, "I'm cooold. Can I have something warm to drink?"
So naturally, I said "well finish up your breakfast and hop under the blanket!"
Her reply: "But if I finish all my breakfast can I have some ice cream?"
Um... I thought you were cold?
She must get her logic from me. And her attitude from Jason.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Interview with Tiegan
May I interview you? Sure.
That means I’m going to ask you some questions and I‘m going to write down your answers. Oh, thank you!
What is something Dad always says to you? He says no when I’m bad.
What is something Mom always says to you? You love me to the moon and back.
What makes Dad happy? My paintings of Diego riding on seahorses.
What makes Mom happy? Let’s see here... Birthdays.
What makes Dad sad? Crying.
What makes Mom sad? Crying.
How does Daddy make you laugh? By pushing my belly button and I giggle.
How does Mommy make you laugh? Silly faces and beep my nose.
How old is your Dad? 3.
How old is your Mom? 2.
[she was very quick and certain about the age answers]
How tall is your Dad? 2 and a half tall.
How tall is your Mom? 2 and a half tall, too.
What is Daddy’s favorite thing to do? Help me paint! Yeah!
What is Mom’s favorite thing to do? Help me draw stuff on my easel with paintbrushes… and markers, and chalk, and my glitter glue.
What does your Daddy do when you’re not around? He plays hide & seek.
What does your Mommy do when you’re not around? Laundry. And you miss me.
What is Dad really good at? Playing baseball with Uncle Timmy!!
What is Mom really good at? Drawing funny faces. (She pulls her cheeks out and rolls her eyes around)
What is your Dad not very good at? Playing football.
What is your mom not very good at? Let me think…. Um, Playing baseball with Daddy. Hey, boat starts with B!
What does your Daddy do for his job? I think he’s... uhh... a collector, yeah. Then he comes home and takes care of owies.
What does your Mom do for her job? She uses her camera.
What is your Daddy’s favorite food? *GASP* I know!! Cheese with marsala on top!
What is that? It’s a song I’m gonna sing in high school.
What is your Mommy’s favorite food? Marsala with cheese on top.
[ I don’t know if she was saying marsala or not… I think she was just making up words]
If your dad were a cartoon character, who would he be? A doctor taking care of owies.
If your mom were a cartoon character, who would she be? A photographer!!
How are you and your Daddy the same? I play dress up like him in his work hat and baseball hat. And his slippers too, yeah.
How are you and your Mommy the same? I don’t know. It’s fun to be different.
How are you and your Daddy different? Making crafts like puppies and rabbits.
How are you and Mommy different? (picks up phone) I like to talk on the phone and you tell me to be quiet and wait my turn.
That means I’m going to ask you some questions and I‘m going to write down your answers. Oh, thank you!
What is something Dad always says to you? He says no when I’m bad.
What is something Mom always says to you? You love me to the moon and back.
What makes Dad happy? My paintings of Diego riding on seahorses.
What makes Mom happy? Let’s see here... Birthdays.
What makes Dad sad? Crying.
What makes Mom sad? Crying.
How does Daddy make you laugh? By pushing my belly button and I giggle.
How does Mommy make you laugh? Silly faces and beep my nose.
How old is your Dad? 3.
How old is your Mom? 2.
[she was very quick and certain about the age answers]
How tall is your Dad? 2 and a half tall.
How tall is your Mom? 2 and a half tall, too.
What is Daddy’s favorite thing to do? Help me paint! Yeah!
What is Mom’s favorite thing to do? Help me draw stuff on my easel with paintbrushes… and markers, and chalk, and my glitter glue.
What does your Daddy do when you’re not around? He plays hide & seek.
What does your Mommy do when you’re not around? Laundry. And you miss me.
What is Dad really good at? Playing baseball with Uncle Timmy!!
What is Mom really good at? Drawing funny faces. (She pulls her cheeks out and rolls her eyes around)
What is your Dad not very good at? Playing football.
What is your mom not very good at? Let me think…. Um, Playing baseball with Daddy. Hey, boat starts with B!
What does your Daddy do for his job? I think he’s... uhh... a collector, yeah. Then he comes home and takes care of owies.
What does your Mom do for her job? She uses her camera.
What is your Daddy’s favorite food? *GASP* I know!! Cheese with marsala on top!
What is that? It’s a song I’m gonna sing in high school.
What is your Mommy’s favorite food? Marsala with cheese on top.
[ I don’t know if she was saying marsala or not… I think she was just making up words]
If your dad were a cartoon character, who would he be? A doctor taking care of owies.
If your mom were a cartoon character, who would she be? A photographer!!
How are you and your Daddy the same? I play dress up like him in his work hat and baseball hat. And his slippers too, yeah.
How are you and your Mommy the same? I don’t know. It’s fun to be different.
How are you and your Daddy different? Making crafts like puppies and rabbits.
How are you and Mommy different? (picks up phone) I like to talk on the phone and you tell me to be quiet and wait my turn.
Maps
Have I mentioned that I love the way the early morning sunlight comes through our vertical blinds in the living room? I usually hate vertical blinds, but there's just something about the golden cast and the lines and shadows... it's pretty darn cool.
This morning Jason had Tiegan on his lap and they were checking out all our relatives' houses on Google Earth. She thought it was pretty neat. I also love that I was going to buy a globe for her, but can now save that money since she can see the Earth for free.
This morning Jason had Tiegan on his lap and they were checking out all our relatives' houses on Google Earth. She thought it was pretty neat. I also love that I was going to buy a globe for her, but can now save that money since she can see the Earth for free.
I think they are so cute in their jammies, messy bedheads and the early morning sunlight.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Adult Toddler
My three-year-old daughter seems to be unusually concerned with the adult world around her. When I was a kid, I was pretty much oblivious to what my parents were doing. I seemed to be in my own little child's-play world. Do YOU remember being this in-tune to what was going on with the adults around you?
T: Mommy, why didn't Daddy like his old phone?
Me: He liked it just fine, honey, but it broke so he had to get a new one.
T: Why did it break?
Me: Things like that just wear out over time and need to be replaced, like our clothes, cars, and toys.
T: But your phone still works. Why do YOU want a new one?
T: [in the car] Why are you turning that way?
Jason: Because that's the way we're going.
T: But where are we going?
Jason: Don't worry about it, you'll see when we get there.
T: But I HAVE to worry about it!
Me: I'll be right back, I have to go pee. [going upstairs]
T: [a few seconds later, *yelling up the stairs*] Are you OK up there, Mommy? Do you need any help?
T: [waking me up at 3am last night] I just wanted to tell you that I love you. Can you wake Daddy up so I can tell him too?
Me: No honey, let Daddy sleep. I love you too. I'll tuck you back into bed.
T: [as I tuck her back in] I hope you and Daddy feel better soon. When Daddy wakes up in the morning I'll tell him I hope he feels better.
Seriously, do I have some anomaly of a 3-year-old who is exceedingly concerned with her parents' lives, or is this becoming the norm for her generation? We often have to tell her not to worry about grown-up things and just have fun with her toys. Really. I'm glad I have such a compassionate, alert, and environmentally aware child, though!
T: Mommy, why didn't Daddy like his old phone?
Me: He liked it just fine, honey, but it broke so he had to get a new one.
T: Why did it break?
Me: Things like that just wear out over time and need to be replaced, like our clothes, cars, and toys.
T: But your phone still works. Why do YOU want a new one?
T: [in the car] Why are you turning that way?
Jason: Because that's the way we're going.
T: But where are we going?
Jason: Don't worry about it, you'll see when we get there.
T: But I HAVE to worry about it!
Me: I'll be right back, I have to go pee. [going upstairs]
T: [a few seconds later, *yelling up the stairs*] Are you OK up there, Mommy? Do you need any help?
T: [waking me up at 3am last night] I just wanted to tell you that I love you. Can you wake Daddy up so I can tell him too?
Me: No honey, let Daddy sleep. I love you too. I'll tuck you back into bed.
T: [as I tuck her back in] I hope you and Daddy feel better soon. When Daddy wakes up in the morning I'll tell him I hope he feels better.
Seriously, do I have some anomaly of a 3-year-old who is exceedingly concerned with her parents' lives, or is this becoming the norm for her generation? We often have to tell her not to worry about grown-up things and just have fun with her toys. Really. I'm glad I have such a compassionate, alert, and environmentally aware child, though!
Unnecessary Convenience
I don't like these:
When Tiegan received a pack of these coloring books and markers for her birthday, I thought hey cool, I won't have to clean marker stains off her clothes/hands/furniture/carpet anymore.
Right...
Now that Tiegan knows these special markers only color on their special books, she has decided to put them to the test. I've caught her "coloring" on several other things including herself, the walls, her coloring table, and various toys including slides for her viewmaster.
I decided to take away the books & markers for a few days until she can learn to color on her coloring books and only her coloring books. I tried explaining that even though these special markers don't show color on other things, they still have chemicals in them that could ruin certain things.
Not sure if she gets that.
What's wrong with teaching them how to stay on the paper with NORMAL markers?
For every child issue, there has come a problem-solving, more expensive toy or solution out there. I don't think they solve the real problems. I think they just make the world too convenient and children are growing up to be big spoiled babies who get everything handed to them.
Or am I making a bigger issue out of Color Wonder than it needs to be?
Right...
Now that Tiegan knows these special markers only color on their special books, she has decided to put them to the test. I've caught her "coloring" on several other things including herself, the walls, her coloring table, and various toys including slides for her viewmaster.
I decided to take away the books & markers for a few days until she can learn to color on her coloring books and only her coloring books. I tried explaining that even though these special markers don't show color on other things, they still have chemicals in them that could ruin certain things.
Not sure if she gets that.
What's wrong with teaching them how to stay on the paper with NORMAL markers?
For every child issue, there has come a problem-solving, more expensive toy or solution out there. I don't think they solve the real problems. I think they just make the world too convenient and children are growing up to be big spoiled babies who get everything handed to them.
Or am I making a bigger issue out of Color Wonder than it needs to be?
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Chef Tiegan Returns... Sorta
Tiegan loves this chef outfit she got from us for Christmas. She wanted to help me make goulash the other day (and as you can see I'm using Manwich sauce because I was out of diced tomatoes... oops), but unfortunately I didn't have much for her to do. It's just one of those throw-everything-in-the-pot kind of meals. I had several cans to dump in, which I asked for her help with, but being a good little safety-conscious young'un, she refused to get anywhere near the stove. I had to pick her up and show her it was ok. I asked if she'd help me dump the cans in, but nope! Her answer was exactly this: "It's OK mom, you can dump them in and I'll just watch. It's too hot for me."
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Socked in
Yesterday, a sinus relief medicine commercial came on. You know the kind, where it shows people rubbing their faces in pain and talking about how sinus inflammation makes you feel like your head needs to explode?
I thought to myself, "Man, I'm glad I haven't had a sinus infection in a while. I hate that feeling." I was really empathizing with anyone who actually needed that medicine, whatever it was. I used to get awful chronic sinus infections - lately it hasn't been so bad.
Must have jinxed myself.
This morning I woke up absolutely socked in. My throat felt like it was on fire and completely void of any moisture. Thank you, sinus drainage! Wandering around throughout the day feeling like you're in a fog and having your head throb is never as bad as that feeling when you first wake up.
I must have jinxed Jason and my mom, too. I went downstairs to say good morning to J and was greeted with, "I think I'm sick." My usual good-morning was replaced with a crackly, "Me too." I emailed mom with the usual Hi-how-are-ya and learned that she suddenly woke up with the same thing too.
Is there something going around that I wasn't aware of?
I thought to myself, "Man, I'm glad I haven't had a sinus infection in a while. I hate that feeling." I was really empathizing with anyone who actually needed that medicine, whatever it was. I used to get awful chronic sinus infections - lately it hasn't been so bad.
Must have jinxed myself.
This morning I woke up absolutely socked in. My throat felt like it was on fire and completely void of any moisture. Thank you, sinus drainage! Wandering around throughout the day feeling like you're in a fog and having your head throb is never as bad as that feeling when you first wake up.
I must have jinxed Jason and my mom, too. I went downstairs to say good morning to J and was greeted with, "I think I'm sick." My usual good-morning was replaced with a crackly, "Me too." I emailed mom with the usual Hi-how-are-ya and learned that she suddenly woke up with the same thing too.
Is there something going around that I wasn't aware of?
Monday, February 16, 2009
Exploratory
One of my favorite things to do with Jason is spend an entire day in the car.
Well, not the entire day.
If Tiegan is at Grandma's for a day, we usually take advantage of our alone time by hopping in the car and going out of town. Not far - Ann Arbor, Lansing, Kalamazoo maybe. We like to explore. One time, Jason took me to this pastry shop. I can't remember where it was, what it was called or what I got, but I do know I want to find another one.
You know, one of those cute holes-in-the-wall that sells hundreds of fresh bite-sized pastries for about $1 a piece.
I love making discoveries like that.
I think as we get older, just spending entire days in the car - exploring other cities - will be one of my favorite memories of my time together with Jason. Obviously we make stops here and there, if we see a good place to take a walk or a neat store to check out.
I have a hankerin' to do this. Soon.
Well, not the entire day.
If Tiegan is at Grandma's for a day, we usually take advantage of our alone time by hopping in the car and going out of town. Not far - Ann Arbor, Lansing, Kalamazoo maybe. We like to explore. One time, Jason took me to this pastry shop. I can't remember where it was, what it was called or what I got, but I do know I want to find another one.
You know, one of those cute holes-in-the-wall that sells hundreds of fresh bite-sized pastries for about $1 a piece.
I love making discoveries like that.
I think as we get older, just spending entire days in the car - exploring other cities - will be one of my favorite memories of my time together with Jason. Obviously we make stops here and there, if we see a good place to take a walk or a neat store to check out.
I have a hankerin' to do this. Soon.
idiocracy
I was stumbling today (which I highly recommend if you're bored on the internet) and came across this Craigslist posting, entitled "Pregnancy Doesn't Make You Divine".
Parents - moms and dads alike - would probably be interested to read what this idiot thinks about bearing and raising children. This idiot was too chicken to post his/her e-mail address, so I would like to point out my replies to a few statements right here on my blog.
For the full rant, go here: http://www.craigslist.org/about/best/sea/988349701.html
On to the insanity. My responses to this person's statements are in italics.
Parents - moms and dads alike - would probably be interested to read what this idiot thinks about bearing and raising children. This idiot was too chicken to post his/her e-mail address, so I would like to point out my replies to a few statements right here on my blog.
For the full rant, go here: http://www.craigslist.org/about/best/sea/988349701.html
On to the insanity. My responses to this person's statements are in italics.
"You're pregnant. BIG F*CKING DEAL. It's not like you went to school for three years and had to take some excruciating multi-day certification.... I am amazed you made it through such a mentally and physically demanding challenge that probably lasted all of 45 seconds."I assume you're likening pregnancy to your own college experience. When comparing childbirth to a pencil-and-paper test, which you should be prepared for after 3 years of studying, don't use the word "excruciating." You sound like a moron. You have no idea what "excruciating" means.
"One time I saw an interview with Hootie (of the Blowfish), with his wife. It was a lovely 'What does Hootie and his wife do when he's at home and not packing fans into concerts at 20 or 30% of capacity' piece on some lame ass afternoon news biopic show."If it was so lame, why were you watching it?
"Anyway Hootie’s wife starts talking about kids and how they are such a miracle and (now she is actually tearing up) and she just can't understand how anyone wouldn't want to have children and HOW SHE JUST FEELS SORRY FOR THOSE PEOPLE. Oh yes honey, feel sorry for us. Obviously we are emotionally fractured because we don't share the same fervent desire to add our particular goo to this world's collective semen cesspool."She feels sorry for you because you wander the world in constant negativity without any idea as to how beautiful it can be. You have no clue how beautiful having a child is, and how it changes your point of view completely. I completely understand a rational desire not to have children, but we parents do not have this sense of entitlement you claim. We don't ask for concessions. We don't look down upon those who aren't parents. But we are very different from people like you. Your mind is small, and you can only see the world from where you're standing. Being a parent is something very different than what you are -- it's called SELFLESS.
5 month bump
Please ignore the blankets on the floor and the mess in the kitchen behind me. Tiegan had just gotten done playing "slumber party" and I have no excuse for the kitchen. ;)
I guess in the whole spectrum of pregnancy, I'm really not that big yet. I have only gained a whopping 12 lbs., and I think about this time in my last preg I had already gained almost 30. I still feel huge, though. It's hard to believe I'm going to get any bigger, which is probably the same thing I was saying at 5 months along last time. It's my thighs and butt that are feeling most of the "chub" right now, which means... time for new jeans. The ones I'm wearing in this picture... yes, I will admit it... they are maternity jeans. The ones with the big panel in front that goes up & over the belly. OH so comfortable. I'm not ashamed!
I am getting Braxton Hicks contractions quite often now, and although they're not supposed to be painful, they're pretty uncomfortable. The very nice ultrasound tech at my last appointment informed me that this would be happening more often now that it's my 2nd pregnancy, as my uterus is trying to get back in shape.
My hair is growing pretty fast, thank goodness. Right now I'm dealing with that frustrating, un-style-able phase. My goal is to have long, light ash-blonde hair once again.
Kind of like this.
Wish me luck!
Things that make me smile
- When I just discover an artist that I love, and I'm still enjoying one of their older albums, and a new album comes out. I have double the music to listen to by that artist. For instance: I was just falling in love with Lily Allen's album "Alright, Still" and now "It's not me, it's you" came out, which is more ethereal and shows her real singing voice. (Even though I now hear it every time auto-tune is used on her voice, thanks to Jason pointing it out to me)
- Going grocery shopping and having a little extra money to buy things we normally skimp on, like really good flavored coffee creamer and gourmet bakery bread.
- The warm yellow-orange sunlight of the dawn coming through the vertical blinds on the lake side of the house.
- Tiegan insisting on "group hugs" every evening when Jason gets home from work.
- Staying in my pajamas til at least noon.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Funny Girl
I thought I'd share a couple funny conversations (well - at least I think they're funny - you are welcome to have your own take) that I've had with Tiegan the past few days. There are more, I'm sure - I just can't think of them off the top of my head. I have this great little purse-sized book where you can write your kids' funny sayings down, and the dates/ages they happened. I just can't locate it right now. I should probably find it, because I can't always get to my blog when these things happen!
I was in the shower while Tiegan hung out in the bathroom. I heard thump-thumping so I said, "What's going on out there?" to which she said, "Just coloring." "That must be some pretty hardcore coloring."
Her answer: "Yeah, I'm pretty hardcore."
This morning Tiegan was eating her breakfast while Jason and I were having a conversation. Not thinking she was paying attention, I jokingly called J an asshole. Tiegan whipped around in her chair and said, "HEY! Daddy is NOT an asshole. YOU'RE an asshole!"
(after which she immediately covered her mouth and sheepishly grinned)
I was in the shower while Tiegan hung out in the bathroom. I heard thump-thumping so I said, "What's going on out there?" to which she said, "Just coloring." "That must be some pretty hardcore coloring."
Her answer: "Yeah, I'm pretty hardcore."
This morning Tiegan was eating her breakfast while Jason and I were having a conversation. Not thinking she was paying attention, I jokingly called J an asshole. Tiegan whipped around in her chair and said, "HEY! Daddy is NOT an asshole. YOU'RE an asshole!"
(after which she immediately covered her mouth and sheepishly grinned)
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Top Heavy.
After everything was finally thawed out and melted... we got snow for Valentine's Day.
Great day to stay inside (check), watch a movie (check), cuddle up with your lovies (check) and take a nap (check). And it's only 2:30!
Thankfully the snow's not sticking to our driveway or the long walkway from the car to the back door, so we don't have any shoveling to do. Er... Jason doesn't have any shoveling to do. There will be no "we" in shoveling until next winter, thank God!
When he gets home from work, he'll be bringing some Rudy's with him. Poor gals, I hope he tips them well. If you don't know Rudy's, it's a cute little retro drive-in place here in Michigan Center. They opened early this year for the two days of near-60-degree weather, but now that they're open, they have to stay open in this awful wintery weather.
After lunch, we'll probably do some shopping. I need some new bras. Desperately. I do not remember the twins getting this big, this fast with my first pregnancy! I hope they don't get much bigger, or I am going to be one seriously top-heavy mama.
Thankfully the snow's not sticking to our driveway or the long walkway from the car to the back door, so we don't have any shoveling to do. Er... Jason doesn't have any shoveling to do. There will be no "we" in shoveling until next winter, thank God!
When he gets home from work, he'll be bringing some Rudy's with him. Poor gals, I hope he tips them well. If you don't know Rudy's, it's a cute little retro drive-in place here in Michigan Center. They opened early this year for the two days of near-60-degree weather, but now that they're open, they have to stay open in this awful wintery weather.
After lunch, we'll probably do some shopping. I need some new bras. Desperately. I do not remember the twins getting this big, this fast with my first pregnancy! I hope they don't get much bigger, or I am going to be one seriously top-heavy mama.
Toddler Eating Disorder
Before you get all CPS on me because of the title, I'm just whining that my 3 year old daughter only eats a few bites of each meal and claims she's done.
This morning I caved and gave her a strawberry Pop Tart for breakfast, as a "treat" for going #1 AND #2 on the potty voluntarily (we have been struggling for months with this). After preparing healthy homemade breakfasts for the past week, I was happy to take a break and thought she'd gobble it all up.
Nope.
As usual, she ate a very small few bites and claimed she was done & ready to play again.
Such a slow, picky, pokey eater.
She takes the tiniest bites ever (just like me as a child according to my mother). She gets distracted and plays with her silverware and hair and clothes and buttons. She has to mess with everything around her EXCEPT her food. If not encouraged to stop playing and keep eating, she will MAYBE finish HALF her meal in... oh... 2 hours.
No, I'm not exaggerating.
I don't even give her huge amounts of food. I think she's served pretty reasonable, healthy servings of everything. If anything, we skimp because we don't want to waste what she doesn't eat.
Snacks between meals have been greatly reduced, and I've started giving her a time frame in which to eat her meals. I remind her a few minutes before her time is up. If she's not finished, or hasn't had enough, too bad. She should have eaten when it was in front of her. Whatever's left will be eaten for her next meal. I don't care if she has to have macaroni & cheese for breakfast.
The problem is, even with the small portions we serve, she STILL works on the leftovers from 1 meal, for 3 consecutive meals afterward.
I suppose we are lucky she does like somewhat nutritious foods - fresh fruits and veggies and the like. And she gets plenty of liquids - usually milk, water, or healthy juice (she really hates like pop or those fake, sugary drinks).
But she can't just have apple slices at every meal.
Any suggestions?
This morning I caved and gave her a strawberry Pop Tart for breakfast, as a "treat" for going #1 AND #2 on the potty voluntarily (we have been struggling for months with this). After preparing healthy homemade breakfasts for the past week, I was happy to take a break and thought she'd gobble it all up.
Nope.
As usual, she ate a very small few bites and claimed she was done & ready to play again.
Such a slow, picky, pokey eater.
She takes the tiniest bites ever (just like me as a child according to my mother). She gets distracted and plays with her silverware and hair and clothes and buttons. She has to mess with everything around her EXCEPT her food. If not encouraged to stop playing and keep eating, she will MAYBE finish HALF her meal in... oh... 2 hours.
No, I'm not exaggerating.
I don't even give her huge amounts of food. I think she's served pretty reasonable, healthy servings of everything. If anything, we skimp because we don't want to waste what she doesn't eat.
Snacks between meals have been greatly reduced, and I've started giving her a time frame in which to eat her meals. I remind her a few minutes before her time is up. If she's not finished, or hasn't had enough, too bad. She should have eaten when it was in front of her. Whatever's left will be eaten for her next meal. I don't care if she has to have macaroni & cheese for breakfast.
The problem is, even with the small portions we serve, she STILL works on the leftovers from 1 meal, for 3 consecutive meals afterward.
I suppose we are lucky she does like somewhat nutritious foods - fresh fruits and veggies and the like. And she gets plenty of liquids - usually milk, water, or healthy juice (she really hates like pop or those fake, sugary drinks).
But she can't just have apple slices at every meal.
Any suggestions?
Heart
It's that time....
Happy Valentine's Day!
And if you're not a big fan of Valentine's Day, which I'm not... well, then, just have a Happy Day!
Happy Valentine's Day!
And if you're not a big fan of Valentine's Day, which I'm not... well, then, just have a Happy Day!
It's not that I resent Valentine's Day or have a reason to specifically boycott the holiday. I just think we're all better off saving our expressions of love for the random days we really feel the urge to do so. Coincidentally and luckily for me, I'm feeling pretty lovey today.
P.S. isn't that heart-shaped bokeh just the coolest?
Friday, February 13, 2009
Lovely Little'un
MacKenzie brought Ian over today for a visit and some pictures. I think I had almost forgotten how TINY newborn babies are! What a cutie. He looks like a featherweight, but I didn't hold him. I think I'm secretly afraid that I'm too clumsy to hold such fragile little newbies. I took a ton of photos, but here are a couple of my personal favorites.
I just love my 50mm 1.8 [aka Nifty Fifty] for newborns and their tiny parts. I feel kind of bad that I didn't have it when Tiegan was a baby. I don't have any photos of her as a newborn like these ones of Ian. Just plain old snapshots with zero depth of field. I guess there's a little guilt there, that our baby will have all sorts of high-quality photos as a newborn and Tiegan won't have as many. I think I might just be a little too obsessed over equality. My mother said I should just make peace with the fact that at some time, the attention and "special treatment" is going to feel a little uneven. Whew, it's going to be hard adjusting to having 2 children.
wishlist talking belly
I love that you can add anything from any website to your Amazon Wishlist now. If you can't tell (click on my amazon wishlist button on the right-hand column), I've been going a little crazy with it. Finally, I can put things from all my favorite sites on ONE wishlist! Not that it does me any good whatsoever... I just like the feeling of consolidation.
These days, Tiegan does not. SHUT. UP. from the time she wakes until the time she falls asleep. I'm hardly exaggerating. She even whispers herself to sleep sometimes. My ears get very tired. I'm trying to implement some sort of "quiet time" each day. And she's in that phase where every 5 minutes: "Hey mommy..."
My belly seems to have popped up out of nowhere. When I hunch over, my boobs touch my belly and my belly touches my legs. What the... I'm still only 5 months along, right??
These days, Tiegan does not. SHUT. UP. from the time she wakes until the time she falls asleep. I'm hardly exaggerating. She even whispers herself to sleep sometimes. My ears get very tired. I'm trying to implement some sort of "quiet time" each day. And she's in that phase where every 5 minutes: "Hey mommy..."
My belly seems to have popped up out of nowhere. When I hunch over, my boobs touch my belly and my belly touches my legs. What the... I'm still only 5 months along, right??
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Robot & Shoes
Tiegan adores this new robot my parents got for her birthday. I can't find it on the website, but my parents say they got it at Walmart. It's simple enough for a 3 year old - One button makes it go forward, and the other button turns it in a circle so you can change directions. A button in the middle makes it "talk" - cat calls, sneezes, and other cute little robot noises. The button on its belly also lights up and makes it talk when pushed.
(ewww... THIS grainy at ISO 400? I need a 5D MkII... lol)
OH yeah... and our new shoes (T's on the left and mine on the right)... BOGO, of course.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
the big announcement
If you can't already tell by the new blog layout...
We're having....
another GIRL!!!
Here are some cool ultrasound pictures. In the first one, it's face-on. You can actually see one of the baby's eyes. It was really amazing, but also a little creepy in a Terminator kind of way...
We're having....
another GIRL!!!
Here are some cool ultrasound pictures. In the first one, it's face-on. You can actually see one of the baby's eyes. It was really amazing, but also a little creepy in a Terminator kind of way...
I was so surprised to hear that it's a girl. I was almost positive we were having a boy this time, and we got so many votes for boy on the poll. Jason swears up and down he's not disappointed, which he proved by wanting to go shopping for little baby girl clothes as soon as we were done with lunch. ;)
As for my other issues, Dr. Farhat said I'm fine. He said that since this is my 2nd pregnancy (and I already have pre-existing loose joint/weak ligament & tendon issues), my ligaments are weaker this time around and my uterus is just hanging lower. I could probably find some relief in a belly support band, but really the only thing I can do for myself is to get off my feet as much as possible when I feel that pressure. It's good to know that there's nothing wrong, but also a little disappointing to hear that I can't be as active as I'd like.
I did get tons of walking exercise today. We got our state return today and went on a little shopping spree after lunch at Bob Evans. I got some new jeans (still in size 3's - yay!), sweatpants, shoes, and a movie for Tiegan I haven't seen in years: The Secret of Nimh. I can't wait to watch it with her tomorrow and see if she likes it. I must have watched it 100 times as a little girl. We also got Tiegan some new spring clothes and a puzzle - we felt like the whole day was centered around the new baby and wanted her to feel special too.
I think that's about all for my update today. So... 2 girls it will be! We are definitely done, despite Jason's joking statements about having baby after baby until he gets his boy. ;)
As for my other issues, Dr. Farhat said I'm fine. He said that since this is my 2nd pregnancy (and I already have pre-existing loose joint/weak ligament & tendon issues), my ligaments are weaker this time around and my uterus is just hanging lower. I could probably find some relief in a belly support band, but really the only thing I can do for myself is to get off my feet as much as possible when I feel that pressure. It's good to know that there's nothing wrong, but also a little disappointing to hear that I can't be as active as I'd like.
I did get tons of walking exercise today. We got our state return today and went on a little shopping spree after lunch at Bob Evans. I got some new jeans (still in size 3's - yay!), sweatpants, shoes, and a movie for Tiegan I haven't seen in years: The Secret of Nimh. I can't wait to watch it with her tomorrow and see if she likes it. I must have watched it 100 times as a little girl. We also got Tiegan some new spring clothes and a puzzle - we felt like the whole day was centered around the new baby and wanted her to feel special too.
I think that's about all for my update today. So... 2 girls it will be! We are definitely done, despite Jason's joking statements about having baby after baby until he gets his boy. ;)
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Oh, Baby
Today I actually took out my Lensbaby 3G and did a little playing around. Nothing artistic by any means, but I was basically just learning by touch. This is one tough little bugger to figure out in detail. The basics are easy, but REALLY learning what it can do takes some time. It will be fun, if possible, to try the effect of making real-life things look miniature. I already kind of did that with my kitchen... just wait and see.
Our view out the screen door. Lake is still frozen, but covered in puddles. Doesn't look as warm out as it really is!
OH, baby. Lensbaby.
Is it laundry day yet?
Annnd my kitchen. I was really just taking a photo of all the dishes that need to be done post-birthday party, but at a glance it looks like a fake miniature. Like dollhouse dishes. No? OK, I need more practice.
Ultrasound-Eve
Tomorrow's the big day. I'm anxious for a few reasons...
I wish I were able to stay on my feet longer. Every time I'm up and around for more than 10 minutes at a time, I start getting awful cramps and feel like... well, gravity is pulling things along. I have to sit down immediately when I feel it. It's hard to explain. Like I said, hopefully I can get some answers tomorrow. If i sit or lie down for a while, I'm fine. As soon as I'm up again, the pain, cramps, soreness and "gravity" start again. I could just be carrying low this time around. It's frustrating and exhausting. I wish I could get more done around the house. There is so much organizing that needs to be done in baby's room (our current storage room), and our bedroom is FULL of laundry. I can barely take one step in there without tripping over something or bumping into a basket.
This post has been unintentionally whiny. My bad! I am hopeful for the next few months and am very excited for tomorrow. Even though it seems no one reads this (comments, anyone?), I will be sure to update as soon as we know something!
- We finally get to seriously start thinking about names.
- I'll hopefully get some answers as to why I can't stay on my feet & am in so much pain.
- Depending on what's wrong with me, if anything, I'll get instructions on what to do with myself for the next few months.
- We'll know whether to start stocking up on boy clothes, or if we need to keep Tiegan's hand-me-downs nearby.
I wish I were able to stay on my feet longer. Every time I'm up and around for more than 10 minutes at a time, I start getting awful cramps and feel like... well, gravity is pulling things along. I have to sit down immediately when I feel it. It's hard to explain. Like I said, hopefully I can get some answers tomorrow. If i sit or lie down for a while, I'm fine. As soon as I'm up again, the pain, cramps, soreness and "gravity" start again. I could just be carrying low this time around. It's frustrating and exhausting. I wish I could get more done around the house. There is so much organizing that needs to be done in baby's room (our current storage room), and our bedroom is FULL of laundry. I can barely take one step in there without tripping over something or bumping into a basket.
This post has been unintentionally whiny. My bad! I am hopeful for the next few months and am very excited for tomorrow. Even though it seems no one reads this (comments, anyone?), I will be sure to update as soon as we know something!
Monday, February 9, 2009
Birthday Photos Part II
These are the photos I took. I guess I should have switched spots with Tiegan - I forgot about the backlighting from the sliding glass door. Oops. Oh well, they turned out OK.
Remember my inspiration cake? HA. What a failure. I had quite a bit of trouble with my frosting tools - they just weren't cooperating. I tried using a generic plastic bag to pipe the white on, and I went through 3 bags breaking before I finally switched to something else. By then, I hardly had any white frosting left. Oh well!
Homemade pizza bites. They were a hit. Just prepare a few boxes of Jiffy mix pizza dough, roll it out, cut into squares, and place a piece of pepperoni & a cube of cheese on each piece of dough. Cinch up the corners, sprinkle on parmesan cheese and bake. They were a little bland so if you try this, I recommend putting a teaspoon of pizza sauce or seasonings in each bite before you wrap them up!
Jason got in a little game time before the party started.
My husband's attempt at blowing up balloons. OH dear....
I wish I got a photo of her reaction when we all yelled Happy Birthday. She was a little frightened. She was clinging to Daddy for a good few minutes before she settled in to party mode.
Ants in the [Square] Pants - she got this from Jason's brother. LOVED this game. I wished I had one of these yesterday. She had so much fun playing this with everyone. She was laughing like crazy and it was just so cute.
Chutes & Ladders from J's parents - we haven't played this yet but I'm sure she'll love it.
Awesome remote control robot my parents got her. So far, so good!
Attack of the Grandma Sheli!
Ummmm, I think that's it. I took way more, but you would get bored looking at them all!
Birthday Photos Part I
These are photos from my mom's camera. She let me borrow her memory card before she left. I love having a PC with memory card slots. It makes life so much easier.
Helping her blow out the candles. She wasn't too sure about the flames. She put her hands straight down and didn't move when they came near!
Just me and Jason being goofy.
Tiegan spent the night at my mom's before the party, so they could bring her for her "surprise" grand entrance. This is a photo of her napping right before they left - I love pictures of her sleeping. Ha ha. (She snores)
Helping her blow out the candles. She wasn't too sure about the flames. She put her hands straight down and didn't move when they came near!
Just me and Jason being goofy.
Tiegan spent the night at my mom's before the party, so they could bring her for her "surprise" grand entrance. This is a photo of her napping right before they left - I love pictures of her sleeping. Ha ha. (She snores)
Sunday, February 8, 2009
The new ride.
I laugh every time I say it.......
We got... a Cadillac! (pictures below)
It's a '96 Deville. This is just so unlike any car I ever would have chosen, but it met the requirements that we were looking to fill this time around. Inexpensive, big enough for family, safe, and... well, not a piece of complete junk.
The only downside is that this has the Northstar V8. Luckily it has proven to be good on gas mileage, for as much as we've driven it so far. For a '96, it's sure got a ton of gadgets to figure out. It's nice. I don't care much for the older body styles but it is a NICE ride. I love the plush leather and the HUGE seats. It is SO clean. I could definitely get used to it. It needs to be washed, and a new hood ornament is definitely in order. The hole in the hood looks pretty jankty.
There is one problem that needs to be fixed right away (like before I'm comfortable driving it on my own). Jason says either the idle sensor or the idle pulley needs to be replaced. It's a more minimal problem than in any of the other cars we've test driven so far. It's just that if the tach drops below 700ish RPM while you're driving (around 25mph or slower), it stalls. It always starts right back up when thrown in neutral, but definitely needs to be corrected ASAP.
We got... a Cadillac! (pictures below)
It's a '96 Deville. This is just so unlike any car I ever would have chosen, but it met the requirements that we were looking to fill this time around. Inexpensive, big enough for family, safe, and... well, not a piece of complete junk.
The only downside is that this has the Northstar V8. Luckily it has proven to be good on gas mileage, for as much as we've driven it so far. For a '96, it's sure got a ton of gadgets to figure out. It's nice. I don't care much for the older body styles but it is a NICE ride. I love the plush leather and the HUGE seats. It is SO clean. I could definitely get used to it. It needs to be washed, and a new hood ornament is definitely in order. The hole in the hood looks pretty jankty.
There is one problem that needs to be fixed right away (like before I'm comfortable driving it on my own). Jason says either the idle sensor or the idle pulley needs to be replaced. It's a more minimal problem than in any of the other cars we've test driven so far. It's just that if the tach drops below 700ish RPM while you're driving (around 25mph or slower), it stalls. It always starts right back up when thrown in neutral, but definitely needs to be corrected ASAP.
I guess it doesn't help the glamour of the photos that our driveway is an absolute LAKE right now. There is nowhere else to park, either... so we have to park in this monster puddle. Passenger side isn't so bad, but poor Jason gets a shoe full of water when he steps out of the driver's side.
More photos, I suppose, when the Beast gets a proper bath.
Today is Tiegan's birthday party. We must start cleaning.
More photos, I suppose, when the Beast gets a proper bath.
Today is Tiegan's birthday party. We must start cleaning.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
I'm Blog Crazy!
Sorry. I can't stop writing blogs.
Also, one of my flaws: I'm extremely apologetic. I can't help apologizing for things that aren't even my fault. Or for things I just don't need to be sorry about.
Hopefully we can do some more car shopping today. We will have to rush as soon as J gets out of work, because we have a very limited amount of time until the place we're going closes for the day. I am so ready to have a different car. It's not that I dislike the car we're driving now, but it just feels so borrowed. Even though the title is in Jason's name... it still feels like his grandpa's car. Temporary.
I'm so anxious to find out the gender of the baby. I will be utterly surprised either way. I'm still instinctively calling the baby "he" and "him" and it's catching on with everyone else, too. I don't mean to -- I just don't like saying "it" and certainly not "fetus." And "she" just doesn't feel right. I will feel pretty silly if it ends up being a girl!
Warm today. In the 40's. I hear 50's tomorrow. Our driveway is an absolute puddle. I mean like, up to your ankles. Yikes. I love days like this, though... they give hope. And oh! The sun just peeked out at the very moment I typed "hope." And then it hid again. That was odd.
Also, one of my flaws: I'm extremely apologetic. I can't help apologizing for things that aren't even my fault. Or for things I just don't need to be sorry about.
Hopefully we can do some more car shopping today. We will have to rush as soon as J gets out of work, because we have a very limited amount of time until the place we're going closes for the day. I am so ready to have a different car. It's not that I dislike the car we're driving now, but it just feels so borrowed. Even though the title is in Jason's name... it still feels like his grandpa's car. Temporary.
I'm so anxious to find out the gender of the baby. I will be utterly surprised either way. I'm still instinctively calling the baby "he" and "him" and it's catching on with everyone else, too. I don't mean to -- I just don't like saying "it" and certainly not "fetus." And "she" just doesn't feel right. I will feel pretty silly if it ends up being a girl!
Warm today. In the 40's. I hear 50's tomorrow. Our driveway is an absolute puddle. I mean like, up to your ankles. Yikes. I love days like this, though... they give hope. And oh! The sun just peeked out at the very moment I typed "hope." And then it hid again. That was odd.
Quickie Pics
My little rock star.
Jason has a collection of microphones and an effects pedal, ready for whenever he starts singing again. This is one mic that came free with another order, and it's really not very good quality. So, he decided Tiegan could have it as her "play" mic. One of my favorite times of day with Tiegan is when we turn off the TV, crank up some music, and dance & sing together. For like an hour.
Jason has a collection of microphones and an effects pedal, ready for whenever he starts singing again. This is one mic that came free with another order, and it's really not very good quality. So, he decided Tiegan could have it as her "play" mic. One of my favorite times of day with Tiegan is when we turn off the TV, crank up some music, and dance & sing together. For like an hour.
She wanted to try on her new winter coat, which we got for next year. I hope it fits then. It was majorly on clearance - I think it ended up being around $15 at Elder Beerman. Check out the Yellow Dot sales if they're still going on!! This coat was originally at least $50, I think. It's a good London Fog coat. She's got the same style this year, in brown & pink.
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