Life in the Circle

Lenape Survival Challenge

2011-05-09T22:45:00.001-04:00

One of the races I was looking forward to this spring was the Lenape Survival Challenge. It is described as

"A unique two person team event that begins with a 4.5 mile
run through the scenic hills of Schwenksville, followed by a
.5 mile run/climb up and back down Spring Mountain, and finishing
with a 2.5 mile canoe race down the Perkiomen. "

I wasn't worried at all about the running part in the beginning. The mountain was going to be walked up no matter what (although my partner is MUCH better at walking hills than I am), but the canoe, now that is a different story. We got there bright and early and people started asking us if we were ready to get wet. Apparently everybody falls in the river. In addition, there are several parts where you have to navigate the rapids with the dive team standing by who will rescue you if you go under three times. Nice to know they let you suffer first before they save you.

The race started almost on time (amazing for any race) and we took off up the first of many hills. This course is not flat by any definition. My partner was awesome and we went right up the first, then the second, then the third hill. We passed so many people who dropped to a walk while we held it steady up those hills. We were doing awesome for a pair who was concerned that we would finish last. The 4.5 miles went quickly and soon we were at the bottom of the ski resort, Spring Mountain. Here is where I got tired. Walking quickly uphill is not easy. My partner, Jodie powered ahead and I did my best to stay with her. We passed 3 other teams on the mountain. At the top we turned and ran down the steep hill into the valley again (okay I kind of jumped down and almost walked in a few steep spots versus run but I got down). Now the fun part was set to begin.

We rounded the bend and ran to the canoe launch point. We donned life vests (thank goodness for those) and tentatively stepped into the waiting canoe. We had a quick 5 minute lesson before the start of the race with a guy standing on a picnic table pretending to paddle. It wasn't quite enough. I had NEVER steered a canoe before and I was in the back so it was my job. We zig-zagged down the river and crashed into some trees twice. I just couldn't get that darn thing to turn. Eventually I figured it out (even though 2 other teams passed us) and we were headed down river. The rapids were approaching and we were nervous. The girls in the canoe in front of us almost flipped and I quickly turned to the left of where they went down hoping for a better path. I was also heading for the divers, just in case. We made it safely down the rapids and grounded out on the other side but we easily pushed off and were on our way again. We succesfully navigated several more obstacles like trees and rocks and other rapids and were elated with our acomplishment. We even had time to pose for some pictures along the way.

As we approached the end, we had to go under a bridge and head for the bank on the left to exit. At this point we were so confident and distracted by the finish line, that we didn't see the HUGE rock under the water. We hit it and flipped sideways. The life vests are awesome and my head never went under. All I could think was "Wow that's cold water!" We popped back up and grabbed the swamped canoe before it could go downstream without us.

We had no way of getting in the canoe or getting the water out, so we towed it to the exit. It was a bit scary as other canoes careened into us but the guy at the ramp finally helped me flip the canoe and empty it. We carried it up and out of the water and across the finish line!

We had finished in 1 hour and 32 minutes which was well under out goal of 2 hours. We were wet and cold but estatic.

The 5K time falls ..

2011-04-25T12:24:00.000-04:00

I have been striving to reach my 5K goal for quite some time now. It is Not easy to take time off of 3.1 miles. That is a lesson I have learned well in the past year. I came so close last November with a time of 30:30. Ugh that last 30 seconds has been haunting me all winter. This spring, I once again signed up for the running class here at work. Not so much for the techniques and tips but for the constant challenge the coach provides. In my "what do you want to get from this class survey", I answered "Run a 5K in less than 30 minutes!" Coach Jen was determined to make that happen for me. She pushed me on my times and said things like, "That was great, I know you can be faster", all the while encouraging me. So last Thursday night (the day after our final class), I headed out to a local no frills, cheap entry fee, 5K to see what I could do.

I was feeling okay heading out. I had skipped the gym during the day so I had fresh legs. I was nervous about a race at night (first time for me), the wind (the finish was into the wind), a course I never tried before, going alone, and most of all failing. But it is better to have tried and failed then to never have tried at all so off I went. I got to the place with only 20 min to register and find my way to the start. There was no parking and I had to park far away and jog up to the registration table. Luckily they had 3 people efficiently working the sign in table so I was through in no time at all. I traded my $10 for a chance at my goal! I decided to do a warm up jog because it was freezing and windy outside so I headed across the grass and down the trail for a bit and then headed back to the start. We lined up, listened to the usual rules and guidelines and we were OFF!

I was in the mid-back of the back and I hit go on my watch as we crossed the start line. I was stuck in a huge mob of people with no where to go and i was beginning to panic. I really wanted to have a good start to get a lead on my time goal. I looked down after a few hundred feet to see what pace these people were making me run only to be surprised that we were doing 8:14 and I was flying along with them without even caring. Woohoo, off to a good start. We crested the hill and things began to thin out and I could settle into my goal pace. I wanted to maintain a 9:30 pace so I settled in at about 9:25 for a bit of a cushion. I was off and running.

The first mile wasn't bad and I was settled in and going with a bunch of people. There was still some dodging and passing to do but not too bad on the rail trail we were on. I the 1 mile split, the man yelled out 9:25 as I passed. Awesome time considering I was a few seconds behind the real clock on my start time. Mile 2 included the turn around which is where the hill is on the course. I ran up the hill and talked myself through the recovery at the top to the turnaround point at 1.55. It's a pure out and back which means a 180 degree turn around a cone at 1.55 miles. I turned around and picked up the speed to head down the hill. I had to make up for the drop in pace that hill cost me on the way up it. As I came back to mile 2 the split said 19:07. So I was slowing down a bit but my goal was still within reach!

Mile 3 was the hardest. Always is. I was trying hard to keep my pace up but my legs were wearing out at this point. I was consistently passing and being passed by the same man who was run walking (or more like sprint walking) and it became a game for me. Hear him coming, speed up, he passes me, he walks, I keep going at a slower pace, repeat. Funny the things that entertain you on a run. As I came to the final bridge crossing with 0.8 miles to go the wind kicked in. I knew I was in trouble when I felt my legs blow backwards on each forward step. Oh no, not now. I said a quick "please God", dropped my head, and pushed into it. The final path back takes you through a parking lot with cheering fans (love you guys!) and then up a hill to the final small drop off to the finish. I was pushing as much as I could now. no time to look at my watch, just had to run! I pushed up the hill to the crest and I was so happy to see the clock say 29 something at the finish line ahead. I dug as deep as I could and ran down the slight hill and pressed stop right over that line. My Garmin clocked me at 29:46! I had done it! I finally broke the 30 min barrier!

Pure joy was mine :)

Now I wonder if I can break 29:00......

A Family event!

2011-04-17T22:05:00.000-04:00

This past weekend was the first official race of the year. To make it even better, it was a family event. I convinced DH and DD to run the 5k too. My husband has been doing awesome with his running going from couch to 5k in only 10 weeks! Woohoo - go honey! This is even more shocking because he has not been consistent with exercise programs in the past.

In addition to DH, I convinced our 8 year old daughter that she could do the 3.1 miles also. She is a swimmer and plays soccer so she has base fitness but running is a whole new beast. She had started training with us but got knocked done by a bad cold and cough so her running time was limited. She only had a few mile, mile and a half sessions in prior to race day. I told her I would stay with her no matter what and that we could walk, the only goal was to finish!

A mile into the race she was doing awesome and passed the split at 12:00 min exactly. She was beginning to feel it though with her "I don't think my little legs were meant to go this far Mom" comment. After tht first mile she decided she was dying of thirst and of course I didn't bring any water but the water sation was at the 1.5 mile mark. Let me tell you - that was a long half mile. She made it to the lovely lady with cups of cool water and downed hers and mine. It refreshed her and we were off and running again. Mile 2 was mostly down hill so it was an easy break. We walked, jogged our way to a 26:00 min split at mile 2. Slowing down but still moving along. Mile 3 is of course uphill and this is where it got tough. It was a very long mile for her and at this point she got mad at me. She thought the race should be shorter and I was talking too much! So to prove her anger, she ran up the hilly parts and walked on the flats. So there Mom! Gotta love the mind of an 8 y.o. The final challenge was a significant uphill (which she ran up of course) and ended up with a tear generating side stitch. We walked it out and then headed for the finish line. Her teacher also ran the race and he came back out to cheer her on in that last stretch and made her feel so special.

She crossed the finish line in a full out sprint and finished in 40:54. She did an awesome job and she was so happy to just finish it. We went and congratulated Dad who rocked his first 5k and finished in 35:28. On the way back I stopped by the results board in time to see them fill in DD's name for 1st place in the 9 and under girls age group. I told her that she won and then the tears started. That trophy was the best thing ever for her. She worked really hard to get it and has been beaming about it since. I'm glad someone in the family gets awards for running!

Getting closer..

2011-04-07T15:51:00.000-04:00

The training has been progressing through the month of March. I found my way to Daily Mile through the various pod casts I listen to and it's fun to track on there and not bore everyone to death on Facebook with my running stats.

I am doing the Running class at the gym again this spring and I still love it. That class is soooooo hard and well worth the cost. Every Monday and Wednesday I get my butt kicked and then the homework gets me too. Today I did speed and hill Farklets on the treadmill and while short (30 min) it was INTENSE. I hope to see a change from all this work I am doing. I really want to A) go under 30 min in a 5K and B) Do better in my half marathon time then I did in my first one. I know B will be hard because my next course has a significant HILL in it but I am training to get myself up it in a decent time anyway.

This Saturday is the Pottstown 5K. DH is running it for his first 5K ever and I hope it goes well. I am super proud of the effort he has made to be able to run. I know he will be fine for the distance but I want him to love it like I do (or maybe at least like it) so we can keep doing this together. I am even okay with him beating me eventually, even though I am highly competitive ;)

Miss Talkative (DD) is running it as well. It will be her first 5K as well and she is so nervous. My plan is to let her run and just stay with her so my time won't count - unless she is a lot faster than I think she will be. I have confidence in her ability to finish it. She may be tired at the end but she is a determined girl and I think she will do awesome!

It is the first Race of the year so here is the kickoff to the season. I can't wait to see how it goes!

Keep running, keep training, keep eating right :-)

The training begins

2011-02-07T09:59:00.005-05:00

The training season has officially kicked off in my household. My DH and I have entered the Warrior Dash in June and he has never run before so he has just started the couch to 5K program. I have also signed my daughter up for a 5K in early April so we are all running together now. This entails going to the local Y and running on the indoor track until the weather begins to cooperate again but it is a start.

I have also started running using a mix of Hal Higdon's training plan for a Half marathon and Runner's world training program. I like Runner's world since it gives me pace times to hit but I don't feel like it includes any realistic ramping or training progression so I want to combine Hal's with it. I used Hal's program last time and it worked great for me. This week was a running overload. I ended up running 5 days in a row which is a big NO in my book. Luckily several of those runs were easy track runs with the family. I did get outside yesterday (and yes I went to a Super Bowl party and went for a run from their house just so I could squeeze my run in). It was great to get outside. I can't wait for spring!!

So I am taking today off to recover and will just do some ab and upper body work at home tonight so my legs can rest. Tomorrow is an easy run day and then Thursday is more speed work. This week I am focusing on my diet so I can get lighter and faster.

Historic Half is in 96 days :-)

Here's to happy training!

The gloom sets in....and a resolution

2011-01-12T13:38:00.004-05:00

The last few weeks have been lazy and uninspiring. I completed a big training and weight loss push 2 weeks before Christmas and now I am officially on a mental (and physical) break. No logs or journals to complete, no counting everything I do, no caring in general. It's not the best approach I can take but mental refreshment is vital to me. I am in the midst of the worst time of year for myself. The time when sunlight hides and I want to hide too. I am a winter gloom and doom type. My relationships suffer in the winter, my motivation suffers, and my outlook suffers as well. I am well aware that I am this way and I will continue to move on reaching for the hope of the spring, just with a few extra tears thrown in.

I did manage to get some running in my life though and that always makes me feel better. I love to run but I HATE running inside. The hot air bothers me, the people bother me, the redundancy bothers me. So last Sunday I laced up my shoes and went out to run in the snow covered streets in the 20 degree weather. I have to say, "I loved it". I was dressed well and I only went 3.5 miles due to lack of daylight (it took me hours to work up to getting out there) but it was wonderful! I really enjoyed it and I think I may become an all season type of girl. My New Year's resolution was that I would run (inside or outside) on Saturday or Sunday. I have no problem during the week since I am at the gym everyday, but weekends get sucked up in family time. This resolution will help me get out there and get moving on weekends too. I like resolutions, I like to be specific, and I like to succeed :)

Have a great day and I hope a great run too!

New Year, New directions, New goals

2011-01-01T18:10:00.002-05:00

I haven't used this space in over a year. Today I decided I would make this space useful again. I plan on tracking my obsession with running here along with the other things I encounter in my journey. This is really a place for me and my family. Sure I update Facebook and other running sites, but I thought it would be fun to start doing a real recording of my thoughts as I train for 2 half marathons this year along with the myriad of other events I will be participating here.

So tag along if you want. It might be interesting - at least for me :)

Happy New Year everyone! I wish you all a fresh start and a new direction!

7 years ago today....

2009-07-02T00:01:00.000-04:00

7 years ago today my life changed forever ....

and oh how fast those years have gone!

Happy Birthday to my baby girl! I love you more then you will ever know!

Vacation nuggets take 1

2009-05-05T18:02:00.004-04:00

We loved our recent vacation to Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida. It was filled with many happy moments and those conversations that are too funny to forget.

For Example:

While at the Luau dinner show we were drinking MaiTai's. Little Miss Perfect (LMP) (as recently labeled by her new shirt) noticed that the adults' drinks were a different color then hers. LMP says is it because they have "Alcohol" in them? I said yes and she responded "What is Alcohol anyway? Is that what makes you like this? and she proceeded to make googly eyes and wobble around.

The man across from us cracked up laughing. I just wonder how she came up with that definition considering we have never been drunk in front of her. I think it is too many episodes of the Simpsons!

more to follow...

Blah blah blah

2009-03-14T18:40:00.006-04:00

It's been a blah day. I'm grumpy to the point where I yelled at Miss Attitude for complaining about not having a drink in the car. Ok, she still needs to wait for things and learn that instant gratification is not necessary, but I shouldn't yell either. SO I apologized and she forgives and forgets... kids are too loving:)

We have been conducting a search for the perfect bike for her and it has not been easy. She needs a bigger bike for her height but she isn't skilled (or confident) enough to handle the extra weight that a big bike brings. Then there is the toss up - do we spend $100 and get her a cheap bike from Toys R Us in case she doesn't use it very long or do we spend $265 and get the really nice quality bike from the bike store? Ugh, I hate making decisions like this (and spending money - oh how I hate that part too).

In better news we booked our vacation to Universal Studios and I am counting the days until we leave. I am still waiting to book a flight back (hey we have a flight down - what more do we need?). I decided that I would buy the flight down to Florida since it was incredibly cheap ($59 each - see I told you I hate spending money) but now I am waiting for the flight back to be that cheap too. I am hopeful since the prices seem to be changing daily. We can't wait to get away for a week for some fun and a few screams too.

Miss Attitude has started taking Karate class and she loves it! She wants to get her black belt so she needs to practice a lot(and class is 4 days a week). I am hoping that she really learns balance and coordination from these classes. She is going to play spring soccer again in April - so we will be very busy.

The good news is that the last few days I have been right on top of things. Yesterday I went and bought the fabric adhesive I need to attach the Karate stars she earns and the Brownie badges I was supposed to get back in September. Then today we went and got a soccer ball and cleats 2 whole weeks before the season starts! That is a new record for me! I am even planning on attaching the stars and patches tonight - if we don't go roller skating instead. Now if I just find the time to finish my other to do lists - I will be way ahead of the game.

2009 is here - Resolutions abound!

2009-01-04T22:11:00.005-05:00

As for 2008 it went by too quickly and I can only imagine what 2009 will bring. I made my New Year's resolutions again and I am confident that it will be maintained. For 2008 I gave up French Fries (and waffle fries and all other fries) and I made it without even sneaking one (which is hard when your 6 year old orders them and only eats a small handful leaving all of those lovely fries to the garbage).
This year I am dedicating myself to running at least twice a week ( I tend to do other cardio instead when I don't have a race scheduled) and adding in other mini resolutions as I go. My first one is the hardest - I am going to stay within my designated calorie range until the week of April 20th. This means no pizza binges, Chinese food buffets, or ice cream sundaes covered in hot fudge and caramel. My biggest challenge for this is the weekends. On weekdays, I have no problem staying within my goals. But oh those weekends are rough - it is too easy with the family around to just get some junk food and go crazy with it. I have made it 3 days (all off days - woohoo) so I am on a roll now! I am looking forward to losing the rest of my weight and hitting my goal this year.
In other goals, I want to run a 10K without walking and finish a 5K in under 30 minutes. That's where the running twice a week will help. I need to have less weight to carry and build endurance. Look out 2009 here I come!
Happy New Year everyone! I hope your resolutions (if you make them) challenge you and inspire you to achieve all you can! Here's to a wonderful 2009! Cheers!

Christmas and 2008 catch up

2009-01-04T22:00:00.000-05:00

It has been so long since I last posted, I have to try and remember where I left off. Thanksgiving came and went and it seems that Christmas came all too fast. Work was crazy since we were shipping vaccines as fast as we could package them (it seems every parent was getting their children vaccinated for the new year!) and I still had all of the shopping and decorating to do at home. Christmas was wonderful though and it went flying by. Miss Attitude - formerly Sweetpea but in her new role she isn't always sweet :) - loved everything she got for Christmas. I think the thing she enjoyed the most was the days off of school. Even though she likes learning, she has discovered the joy in playing ALL day again.
We have spent the last several days digging out from the piles of presents that we were blessed with from our wonderful families. I am looking forward to a great year. I received a new camera (oh my hubby is wonderful) that I can't wait to learn all of the things it can do. Miss Attitude has too many toys to even name, and hubby is playing with his new Xbox 360. So instead of words - here are a few pictures to share our joy of the holiday.

The "kids" (my cousins and Miss Attitude)

My uncle and Miss Attitude had a lot of fun with a can of whipped cream!

Every now and then she still looks like an angel :)

My family waiting anxiously to open presents - the people not in the picture were the ones slowing us down!
Miss Attitude and my Dad (see where the name comes form?)

True joy when you get the one gift you asked Santa for!

Even the cat loves Christmas!

I hope everyone's Christmas was equally fun filled!

All I want for Christmas..

2008-11-20T17:46:00.003-05:00

Is my two front teeth!

This song has been sung constantly in our house for the last 2 days. She was waiting and waiting for that second tooth to fall out. That makes 3 holes in her smile now!

All dressed up for Halloween

2008-11-01T08:00:00.001-04:00

Sweetpea was supposed to be a ballerina for Halloween. This would have been a FREE costume since I already paid for it for her Spring dance recital. Then she decided she was tired of being "cute" and wanted to be something bad for Halloween. I guess the fact that Batgirl is a good guy was lost on her. The only problem she had with this costume was during the annual begging for candy when the adults called her bat MAN. She eventually resorted to tugging on her braids while saying Trick or Treat so they could clearly see she was BatGIRL. I think she still looks "cute", just don't tell her that!

Sweetpea wasn't the only family member dressed for the occasion.

I was at the pet store and they had this on sale...I just couldn't resist (the costume, the cat was already ours). Can you just tell how much he hates me?

St Rose of Lima

2008-10-31T15:47:00.005-04:00

Sweetpea's class was responsible for the All Saints Mass today. Part of this event involved dressing up as the Saint of your choice. Sweetpea (and 3 other little girls) chose St Rose of Lima. St Rose was the first saint from the Americas and is often represented wearing a crown of roses (which she used to hide the metal spiked crown underneath).

I assumed it would be easy for me to make a costume for this event. She just needed to be dressed like a nun with some roses on her head. Off I went to the local fabric store where I bought a pattern for religious costumes (nativity set type) since I think I will have a lot of use for this in the future. I also bought some brown and cream fabric. Now I was beginning to think I was in over my head in this endeavor (I only had 2 days of time left). My sewing experience is very limited, even though I own a sewing machine, I have never had the occasion to make something with sleeves. I went home and promptly made the easiest part, the crown of roses. Check, one task down and off to bed.

Thursday has arrived and Sweetpea is worried that she will be going to mass naked with just a crown on her head. I assured her that I would get her costume finished or at least pin material to her body. I set out cutting and sewing, piecing bits of pattern together and just winging it for the veil since the right type of veil wasn't included in my pattern.

I am happy to say that I was not up to 3 am sewing and that it only took me 3 hours from start to finish(including dinner and numerous interruptions) to make this simple nun outfit. I think it turned out great and Sweetpea was just beautiful!

Pumpkin Carving

2008-10-31T15:14:00.004-04:00

During the pouring down rain we went and shopped for pumpkins. The best part of getting pumpkins is that you get to carve them. We carved three pumpkins and once it gets dark I will take some cool pictures of them lit but in the meantime here is Sweetpea's favorite part of carving.

She loves the pumpkin guts! She pulls it all out and digs her hands in it, makes "pies" out of it, and generally just makes a huge mess! I love carving pumpkins too, so I don't mind at all.

The Off Road Experience

2008-10-26T22:38:00.009-04:00

Today was my first off road trial run. I have competed (OK not really competed but participated) in 4 - 3.1 mile races since April of this year. As I planned my summer/fall racing schedule, I looked at the numerous races being organized and timed by the local company. One of these was entitled the "Evansburg Challenge" and included 2 races (a 10 mile jaunt and a 4.5 mile fun run - funny how they think 4.5 miles is just for fun). My running buddy and I decided that by October we should be ready for something longer then 3 miles so we signed up.

As the last few weeks have past there has been a significant lack of rainfall in the area. Besides not having to mow my grass very often, the lack of rain encouraged me into thinking this trail run wouldn't be too painful. Then the storm moved in. Yesterday it rained, and rained, and poured, and rained some more (oh and don't forget the accompanying high winds). So much for my dry, fast, runnable trails.

This morning I woke with great anticipation and a good dose of nerves. I know I can run 3 miles on the flat, but 4.5 miles over an unknown course was a bit intimidating. I headed out of the door 15 minutes later then I had planned due to forgetting everything I needed. I made so many additional trips into the house that Chris asked me if I was ever leaving. At one point, I even backed down the driveway only to drive right back up into the garage to retrieve yet another item. I had a quiet drive to the park where the race was being held and found it with relative ease. I turned onto the entrance road and followed the line of cars down a never ending two lane road. At one point everyone began to turn into a parking lot and I thought I had finally arrived when I realized a tree had fallen during the storm and was blocking the road. My first thoughts were to how many trees fell across the race trail that I would have to climb over/under.

I successfully parked and picked up my registration material and began the long wait. While waiting I had the opportunity to overhear a conversation between two other runners. They were running in the 10 mile run and were discussing the water crossings. I specifically decided against the 10 mile run due to the water crossings (OK the 10 miles might have had something to do with it too). After all it is October people, do you have any idea how COLD that water is going to be? The one girl was concerned due to her inability to swim that she might slip and go under. Really, how deep is this water? My question was soon answered when runner #1 indicated that the water was only about upper thigh high (thigh high - who wants to run through that!!!) but that runner #2 could hold on to her for safety. My running friend soon arrived (a bit after I started to panic that I would have to tackle this feat on my own) and we proceeded to the starting line.

Our initial plan was to run/walk the course. Although we spend a significant amount of time in the gym on a daily basis, 4.5 miles was a new challenge. We figured we could run until we were tired and then walk as one of us needed a break. To begin the race, the organizer went through the directions on how the trail was marked and made sure to call all those who had never run this course before "the lost boys:". With a final word of good luck, the race began and we took off running with the crowd (and they do run slower when they know they have 10 miles to go instead of 3) and headed down the road to the first trail entrance.

The first mile was pleasant. We had a nice steady pace underway and the trail was manageable. The conditions were a bit mushy but nothing worth tiptoeing through. We went along nicely to a point where the trail narrowed to a single file path. The trail began to get a bit muddy and then we came to the "drop off". This is the point where I stood at the top looking down and pondered how you were supposed to even get down this hill. I considered sliding on my butt but then we side stepped down the hill holding on to tree branches as we went.

Now the trail got exciting. We were running up hills, across rocks, through mud, and over tree roots that looked more like steps. We kept running unless the conditions didn't permit it (too muddy or having to go down in ditches and back out again). The time just flew by (and the miles). The scenery was very beautiful, even with the mud, and I saw some of the biggest maple leaves ever on the ground. The run was interesting because you had to be so aware of where you placed your foot and time your jumps as obstacles appeared. We ran along the river, up and over the power lines, through tiny one lane horse trails, across rustic wooden bridges, and through the woods. The flags marking the trail were easy to follow and a measure of comfort as we ran. The thought of getting lost was not comforting because after that first mile, we made so many turns I had no idea how to get back to the starting line. This makes the trail run exciting but then having the ambulance waiting at the start seems pointless. If anyone needed the ambulance, how would you find it to tell them (and then find the hurt person again)?

After picking our way through the trail and encouraging each other to keep running we made the turn towards the finish line. The finish was uphill, of course, which is just the race organizers being cruel, but we went running right up to the top and grabbed our celebratory cup of water. We were the first ones to finish that had signed up for the 4.5 mile fun hike(and while in my dreams there were about 100 people behind us, there were only a few others) and we finished in 55 minutes and 15 seconds.

The best part was that I really felt that I could have kept going. I thought 4.5 miles would be stretching my abilities but I could have done at least 6 miles. It was so much fun and now I am looking for my next longer distance(7 miles? maybe 10?) trail run. So while I may not be fast, I know I can just keep going and finish without dying. That is a wonderful feeling!

Thoughts to ponder

2008-10-24T17:31:00.005-04:00

I don't usually discuss politics. It's a touchy subject for many people and something I don't like to argue about. I have my opinions and I will tell you what they are if I am asked directly, but I prefer to stay low key.
One thing that I do feel strongly about is that all people should vote. There are too many places in this world where people can't express their opinion that we MUST take advantage of this liberty. I always vote, no matter what (even in the primaries).

With the upcoming election, there has been constant coverage on every medium we have. One thing I enjoy listening to occasionally is NPR (National Public Radio). They always have interesting stories and are my entertainment when commercials and songs become annoying. Today I heard a story produced from York, PA (not far from where I live).

In this story, the radio gathered six people from several races to discuss the racial implications of the presidential election. First, they focused on the prevalence of people who fly American flags outside of their homes. It was widely agreed that people who are white, often have flags flying yet people from other races rarely do. They asked the Hispanic and black participants first if they had a flag and why or why not. All four of the participants indicated that they did not fly flags. Some of them indicated that they feel that America does not treat them as full citizens so they can't fly a flag to show their allegiance. Others indicated that due to the way they are treated by others, that they have no desire to fly a flag.

After the flag discussion, the participants were asked how they feel the possible election of a black man to president will change the country. A white school teacher indicated that she is excited to see Obama take office and feels that non-white children will then have a wonderful role model to follow. Her sister in law then expressed her fear of Obama taking office because she is worried about the reaction the minority population may have. She is worried that a false sense of entitlement and revenge will result in acts of violence against white citizens as pay back for years of oppression during slavery. A black man in the audience then indicated that while he doesn't expect that reaction, he does fear too much celebration that may lead to destruction of property and violence if the authorities try to disband the gatherings. He was also concerned that if Obama is not elected, their may be a general revolt from the overall feeling that the election was rigged. Finally, a black woman indicated that her ultimate fear is that Obama is elected but then assassinated in office. She feels that this will lead to all out chaos in our society.

The funny thing I was thinking while listening to this story is that I had not really considered these aspects of the election. I understand the significance of a black man running for office, but I didn't think of what might happen if he did/didn't win. I have considered the stance of both parties on multiple issues and I have made my decision of who I plan to vote for. At this point I don't see anything changing my opinion, but I still found this discussion very interesting.

The 6 year old check up

2008-10-16T19:55:00.003-04:00

Tonight was our 6 year old check up night. I look forward to this night just to see how much she has grown the past year. We are lucky to have such a healthy girl. Other then your typical colds she is a healthy kid and we rarely make a trip to the doctor.
I was wondering just how much she has grown since last year. I knew she had reached the magical 48 inches in the spring but since then she has slowed down significantly. When I took her to get shoes for her winter uniform this past weekend, her shoes size had only increased by a half size since April.
The nurse took her back to weigh her and measure her along with a quick eye test. She is 49 1/4 inches tall and weighs 62 lbs. Therefore she has grown 3 inches and gained 6 pounds since her last check up. She is still at 95% for height and weight on the growth charts. Her BMI has also continued it's downward trend for the last three years with a significant drop since last year.(They have never wanted her to lose weight- she is fit and active.) So while she is huge for her age, her doctor feels that she is just perfect and will grow to be a tall girl.
The best part of the night for Sweetpea was the flu mist. She hates and I means HATES shots. I have to hold her down while she cries and kicks and makes a general scene. It was so nice to have the option to have her snort some vaccine instead.

Whistler's tooth

2008-10-15T19:42:00.001-04:00

Wiggle to the left, wiggle to the right, what do you get (after 2 weeks of wiggling)? A big hole right in the top row of your teeth!

Sweetpea has been waiting and waiting for her first top tooth to fall out. She started pushing it around a few weeks ago, hoping that it would fall out in time for school pictures (Tuesday 10/14). Over the weekend it was hanging on just by the front but refused to let go. Pictures were taken with a loose wiggly tooth and she was only a bit disappointed. The very next day wiggle tooth decided it was time to make it's exit and Sweetpea came home with her proud tooth container necklace in hand.

Check out this gap in her smile - she thinks it's awesome and was practicing her whistling through her hole all night long (which almost matches the hole on the bottom).

Her next hope is that the other top one falls out and doesn't grow back before Christmas so she can sing a certain famous song.

A writer in the making

2008-10-07T18:54:00.009-04:00

Waiting for dinner can be such a boring endeavor that it pays to bring along some paper and a pencil. Sweetpea typically entertains herself by drawing pictures, playing Tic-Tac-Toe, etc. Since she is now reading books by herself she decided to write one of her own. Here is her first short story written and illustrated entirely on her own. (Make sure you note the boy's expressions as the story progresses).

Is it a conspiracy?

2008-10-06T17:08:00.004-04:00

So just about everything you buy today is from a foreign country. I'm not one to particularly care where something originated from but with the numerous cases of lead from China, I do like to watch the labels.
As the new school year started, we began the search for a lunchbox. After examining every lunch box on the shelves, Sweetpea picked an adorable panda bear lunchbox. Attached was a large tag indicating it was "LEAD FREE". Oh good, at least I don't have to worry about that and we took it home with us.
That evening while I was removing all of the tags I turned the cute fuzzy lunch box around to find this...

Okay, is it just me or do you find these Fun Facts a bit upsetting? I'm all for sharing educational tidbits about pandas but did they have to make ALL the S's backwards? Isn't it hard enough for most children to learn the proper direction for letters to face? Why would you go and put something intentionally incorrect just to be "cute". I would assume the target audience for these are not adults who know better, but children who learn from what they see.

So is this an evil ploy to disrupt the American educational system? Probably not. I did write a letter of concern to the parent company though. I'm not sure I'll get a response though. They may not be able to read it with all of my letters facing the proper way!

The Race - Sweetpea's turn

2008-09-23T14:19:00.000-04:00

One of the main reason's that Chris and Sweetpea attended this 5K is that Sweetpea wanted a chance to run too. She has heard me talk about running and seen me practice so she wanted to join in. Her wanting to join has made my heart glad. I would love for her to find joy in something as simple and wonderful as running at her age instead of at 32 like I did. Maybe, just maybe, if she starts now, she won't be struggling at age 33 to make it through a 5K in under 35 minutes.

Her race was to begin after mine ended but I still had Chris waiting in the wings if she needed someone to run with her(you really didn't think I was going to run another 0.5 miles after my own hellish 3.1 miles). While he is not a runner (he thinks I am psycho for running), he can manage a half mile if the occasion calls for it. The kids were all anxious to begin and when the race director called them to the starting line, they were there faster then you could bat an eyelash. They all lined up in classic race starting position (one foot in front of the other) some with parents but most without. After consulting Sweetpea, Dad did not have to run, and off she went to the lineup with a few hints from me. She had her foot right on that starting line and she was ready to go with a serious look on her face.

The race director got on his bike and got a head start before he yelled go and off the kids went. Sweetpea was doing well and keeping ahead of the pack but I was sure she was going to run out of steam before she reached the turn around. I quickly ran over to try and peer around the bend but I couldn't see her any longer. As the kids began to came back into view I first saw the 10 year old girl out in front (who just finished the 5K and beat me too) and the little boy (maybe 5) who's Mom kicked butt in the 5K finishing in 16 minutes (oh how I hate her). Then came Sweetpea, in 3rd place and going strong. As she got closer she slowed to a walk and I thought she was done, but she took my advice and after 5 or 6 steps, took off running again. She went ripping towards the finish line as fast as she could and crossed in a speedy 3:30.

She was so excited that she came in third and wanted to know what award she was getting since 1st,2nd, and 3rd always get awards - right? I had to explain to her that the kids all get the same award (a bag of candy in this case)but that she did a great job. We ended up staying around for the awards ceremony just in case but after baking in the sun for 15 minutes, she decided we could leave. I was relieved it went so well and I hope that she enjoys taking part in these races until she can run with me (and probably beat me) in the 5K races.

How I love to torture myself

2008-09-22T06:53:00.006-04:00

This weekend I entered in another 5K race. There were two important differences in this one though. First, I would be running alone. My friend who always runs by my side was unable to attend since she just had surgery - I guess that's an excuse of sorts. This means that I had no one to stay with me as the rest of the pack runs swiftly by or to keep me motivated when I reach the point of exhaustion. The second thing that was different is that my family (Chris and Sweetpea) was attending as well. For some reason this induced a good set of nerves in me. I already knew I wasn't going to win and that I could only hope to finish well for me since I am not a fast runner. I run these races strictly for finishing them. Each race that I finish drives me forward in my quest to be in better shape. I know if I can run 3 miles today then maybe tomorrow I can do 4.

As the race started, I already regretted being there. It was a small field of runners (about 85) so I had an uncharacteristic spot near the starting line. I prefer to line up in the back of the field since I know 90% of the runners will pass me. In this race though, Sweetpea kept encouraging me to get close to the front so I could win. She wanted me to come in second since I told her there was no way Mommy was going to win the race. As we all took off the pace was fast as always and people were soon leaving me behind as the slower runners fell into their places.
At about a quarter mile in, I was tired and only my will kept me going forward. I was tired, the sun was beating down on me, and I really didn't feel like running. I vowed to make it past Chris and Sweetpea who were waiting for me at the bridge crossing and at least look like I was doing well.

Well I made it past the bridge and then I made it to the 1 mile mark in 10:10 (which is good for me). Now I just had to make the loop before I could head back for the finish line. At this point there were 2 women in front of me and no one behind me. I couldn't see anyone at all behind me and even though I knew someone was back there somewhere, the thought of coming in dead last was not pleasant. I just kept running hoping to do well and even if I came in last, I would know that I had tried. After I made the turn, there were no more splits to tell me my pace. There wasn't any water either (which I was very upset about, I count on that water station 1/2 way through the race). I headed back for the bridge where Sweetpea was waiting for me.
As I came across the river bridge, there is my beautiful girl hanging on the end of the bridge looking desperately for me with a very concerned look on her face. I took out one earphone so I could hear her and what words of encouragement do I hear? "Mommy, you're in last place!" Oh she is so sweet!

Chris gave me some much needed water and a smack on the butt along with an enthusiastic "Keep moving!" and they were off to the finish line to cheer me in. I only had about a half mile to go now and at this point I wasn't going to stop. I made it around the last few blocks and I headed for the finish line. As I came down the home stretch the other faster runners are there clapping for you and telling you what a good job you are doing. As I get to Chris he encourages me to sprint for the finish because I can make it in under 35 minutes if I hurry. I summoned up all the energy I had remaining in me and I sprinted as best I could to cross that line. My final time was a speedy 34:42:59. Yes, that 1/100th of a second is vital to my time! This was my fastest 5K yet and I am amazed at how far I have come since I started this quest. My first 5K in April I finished in 38:30 so I have cut almost 4 minutes off my time. Maybe by the end of next year I can be under 30 minutes - oh how happy would I be then!

Faux pas and more..

2008-09-19T12:04:00.003-04:00

How has technology and the Internet changed our lives? Here are 2 examples...

The other day we were leaving a parking lot and Chris (DH) did something stupid. I would tell you in detail what it was but as soon as he realized it, he made me promise I wouldn't blog it. I of course laughed and said "Well I'm going to blog you saying that!"

The worst faux pas of the week belonged to me and I am of course going to share it anyway. I really can't be more embarrassed then I already was when it occurred.

I was asked to present at a meeting that I used to be a regular attendee to, but I haven't gone since I was promoted. I am very familiar with the majority of the people there but there are also many new faces. The atmosphere there is always one of joking around and good natured fun even though the participants have changed. Before I could begin the training I was presenting, there was general discussion of a new(less then 3 months with us) girl that abruptly left the company. She was a very young (22) and very attractive blond Russian immigrant (so she had the sexy look and accent to go with the sexy name). One of the men(Mr Funny) that supports the same area she did jokingly said "She must have left because she was tired of me leering at her all day, along with the rest of the building." We all laughed and moved on with the meeting.

After the meeting I returned to my desk and I wanted to share this story with my friend and co-worker who also used to be a regular attendee. I opened up the IM function we have for office use and clicked on what I thought was her name (starts with a J) and instead I clicked on the name of Mr Funny who made the comment (also starts with a J). I then typed out the whole story before hitting enter. You can imagine my surprise when the reply I received was from Mr Funny instead of my girlfriend. I was mortally embarrassed and had to tell him who I intended to send it to and why. Luckily for me, he has a great sense of humor and I didn't say anything offensive (imagine if I had said something like "That Mr Funny is such an a@@hole"). Even so my face was as deep of a shade of red as you can get!

I learned my lesson from this and I will be paying closer attention to what I click prior to hitting Go. It could have been worse, I think I got off easy on this one!

Have any of you ever made this type of mistake?
Ever been told - you can't blog this because they didn't want everyone to know about an incident even though we all do stupid things?

Life with an only child

2008-08-29T14:10:00.002-04:00

Please everyone go and read this "What I'd Like For You To Know: The Mom Of an Only Child". It is wonderfully written and touched me deep inside since I am an only child and I have an only child.

One tired little girl

2008-08-10T07:35:00.002-04:00

The camp pick up went very well. We were greeted by a running little girl who gave us the biggest hug ever. The first thing she said to me - "Can I come back again?" Judging by that question, I think you can say she had a great time at camp. She was a bit disappointed that she has to wait until next summer to come back though. Maybe she'll end up going twice next year, once in the beginning and once at the end of summer.
She is my brave independent adventurer. She said she only cried once on Thursday night when she woke up and was a bit lonely but all the other times she had friends with her day and night so why be lonely. They got to make lots of fun things, go for walks, look for pirates, paint each other's faces, make awesome deserts, and more and more stuff. She said she couldn't write me more letters because during rest hour, she had to rest! She was too tired from being so busy to write instead.
I think her favorite activity was being in the polar bear club. This meant getting up and going for a morning swim before breakfast at 7 am (no surprise since she is part fish). She only missed it on the last day because her counselor couldn't get her to wake up.
I am so happy to have my baby girl back home and after getting 12 hours of sleep Friday night, she is back in the swing of things. I am so relieved that she loved camp. I loved it as a child and I really wanted her to have the same experience. Thanks GSEP, I appreciate you taking such good care of her!

Homecoming..

2008-08-08T07:34:00.003-04:00

I can't wait. Today (after dinner) we go and pick my Sweetpea up from camp. We got a letter from her yesterday saying she was having a lot of fun so unless the camp counselors force them to write that I guess she is having fun. I am looking forward to hearing her stories and seeing her beautiful face. Oh how I miss having her here with me.

How did she get so big?

2008-08-04T07:18:00.002-04:00

Yesterday was the big day, the day Sweetpea went to sleep away girl scout camp. She was so excited to attend and as we left her there in her tent with 13 other little girls I couldn't help but worry about her. Will she like camp? Will her counselors care enough abut her? Will she be friends with her tent mates? Will she survive a whole week away from Mom, Dad, and everything she knows and is comfortable with? It was very hard to let her there and I would love to run back and get her at a moment's notice. I also want her to stay, have a great time, and want to go back every year. I loved camp as a kid and I never wanted to go home.
She was so brave yesterday. When we arrived she decided she was a bit nervous but then after we got to her tent and she picked a bed and unpacked she was settling right in. We went for walk and found the sinks to wash up at and the latrines which she decided to use only when she had to due to the smell. She was also horrified that the toilets were just buckets with a toilet seat on top. You have to love outdoor bathrooms with no plumping. At least she has a place to sit - better then squatting over a hole in the ground. We spent about an hour with her and then she sent us on our way with a quick hug and kiss. There wasn't any can't you take me home or come back tomorrow. Only "I'll see you Friday, bye" as she ran back to her tent.
Now my thoughts are constantly of her. What is she doing, did she sleep well, what's for breakfast, is she having fun? I really hope she likes it!! I will do my part by sending mail and email daily. I will also worry about her (and pray for her to be having a great time)until I see her again. Here's to a week of child free worry filled fun!
If anyone has any good ideas on what I can send in her care package tomorrow let me know. Only rule is - no food - we wouldn't want to attract bears!

What Disney Girl are you?

2008-07-31T14:42:00.003-04:00

Dignified and hard working. With a gentle and soft-spoken manner you have something many people don't Patience. Even through the moments of heartbreak you're still able to hold onto all of your hopes and dreams. Bide your time; your dream will come true.

Go take your own quiz over at http://www.greatestjournal.com/quiz.bml?Q=16354

Thanks to T w/Honey for pointing me in this direction. It was fun!

Just complaining...

2008-07-31T07:41:00.003-04:00

How do you handle people who annoy you with the things they do? This is a question I debate on days like today. My team at work is comprised of 5 people. Our boss and 4 of us who perform the daily work. This week our boss is on vacation so I have to perform his duties and another team member is also out. This leaves us with 2 people performing daily tasks instead of 4. I am also involved in a 3 day seminar which leaves me with no spare time for any additional work. Our one team member (who is still "new" to the job) has been doing a great job of keeping up with eveything. The other one hasn't been doing his fair share. Then I come in today to find out that he is taking a last minute half a day of vacation today and a full day tomorrow. He got this approved by the director (who of course said sure, she doesn't know our workload issues). I am so annoyed right now. Due to this I am skipping the final day of the seminar so I can at least be here to cover for his absence. He also does this type of stuff all of the time (taking off early, leaving because he has a headache, calling in sick the day after he took a vacation day, and calling out when he knows we are short staffed). One last point to mention is that Fridays are always rough around here. It is only on Fridays that last minute emergencies arise that require people to stay late or work from home (which he complains about if he has to be the one to stay past 4:30 when he only comes into work at 8:30).
So here is the question? Do I mention it directly to my boss when he returns? Do I just deal with it and move on? Do I put it in his mid-year review which I have to write this week? What would you do? Have you ever dealt with someone like this before?

Ok I guess I'll get back to work, just wanted to vent a bit.

On the road..and a GPS issue.

2008-07-13T22:28:00.004-04:00

Our first day of our vacation was conveniently planned on our wedding anniversary. Through the last 11 years we have taken several vacations at this time of year. There are several good reasons for this. First off, we are commemorating the best vacation we ever had, our honeymoon. Second, it probably helps that since we were married June 28th, it falls right near a major holiday which then means less vacations days to use. This helps all around because I never have enough vacation days. That is my main reason for wanting to move to Spain (besides the mid day siestas), they take A LOT of vacation time. So after we spent a few hours trying to shove all of our belongings in the car including the child, we were off on our way to the beach.

The first step in our journey involved typing in our destination to the GPS system. This was a tool (toy) that DH wanted and received for his birthday. We have made the trip to Virginia Beach many times in the last 11 years but since we have the all knowing GPS we had to see what it would suggest. Now there are many options available when you choose a destinations. There is the fastest time, shortest distance, least highways, and most highways to choose from. Through the last several months we have become familiar with the shortfalls of the GPS and have learned to try all options before selecting one. This journey proved no differently and we had to choose the shortest distance option to get the main roads we wanted (Rt 13 NOT 95). As we set off all was going well until we hit traffic and attempted to use the detour function. This move confused the system and soon fighting erupted between the occupants of the front seat as DH become frustrated with not knowing where we were being directed to go and myself being angry at him for relying on a stupid computer when the friggin' signs were right in front of us. This fighting soon led to him pulling over and telling me to drive (nice anniversary right?). I was more then willing to drive as long as we could go the RIGHT way and soon we were on our way with me ignoring the stupid GPS system (did I mention it's STUPID). I think technology can be beneficial but I am a true believer in maps. Does the GPS have its good points, yes it does, as a backup system. I am of the opinion that you should only use it when you already have a mapped route in mind.

So after we were an hour away from Rt95 the GPS finally agreed that we were proceeding the right way and we had an uneventful drive to Atlantic Avenue. We found our hotel and checked in and went down to check out the pool. The main reason I picked this hotel was that it had 3 pools. Now Sweetpea is half fish and will swim for hours, so a pool is a vital asset on vacation. This hotel was special because it had a pool with an indoor lazy river. We all had a great time going down the water speedway and through the indoor waterfalls and we headed off to bed looking forward to our next few days on the beach.

Back to the real world

2008-07-08T06:53:00.003-04:00

The last week has been super busy and wonderful all at the same time. Last week we were on vacation. We went to Virginia Beach for 4 days and the left on the 5th day and went to Busch Gardens for 5 days. It was a wonderful vacation. We all got some sun and only hubby got a little burned (oh thank the Lord for SPF 45 and 55 sunscreen by Neutrogena) Speaking of the Neutrogena, I have to say the dry touch sunscreen is the BEST ever. It not only leaves you with a powder soft matte finish instead of greasy shiny skin but it also doesn't give me an allergic reaction. I'll take non red itchy burning skin anyday, the dry touch is just a bonus. I'm telling you - this stuff is worth $9 a tube (for the small size).
So now we have returned and I'm getting caught up on work and home and with my blog reading. It is the start of another busy week and we are all trying to recover but I'll be back soon to fill in the details of the last week.

Another outdoor project

2008-05-28T18:18:00.007-04:00

It seems that hubby and I have a weakness for projects outdoors. We have spent hundreds of hours (and dollars) doing outdoor projects. When we moved into the house it was brand new and it came with blank dirt (or at least they told us it was dirt - if you saw it you would think otherwise). One of the rules of the development was that you must install 6 bushes in the front of your home within 1 year of moving in. Since I was pregnant when we moved in we didn't do anything the first spring. We did spread straw on the lawn(when I was 9 months pregnant and no it didn't induce labor) over the new grass seed after they finally put in down in the end of June in 100+ degree weather - needless to say it didn't do well. The following spring we rented a tiller and a post hole digger and went to work installing bushes. Over 30 of them. That's right we are crazy.

Since then we have done numerous other projects (deck, small edging walls, more bushes) and every year I say "NO MORE OUTSIDE PROJECTS". Once again that has failed me (and it was my idea to do this - I think all the digging is getting to me).

At the bottom of our driveway there is a corner that is very rocky - okay it's just worse then the rest of the yard which qualifies as slightly rocky - remember the so called dirt? Well I've been eyeing it up and since we just had a new tree planted right above this spot it seemed like a good time to get started. After waiting several weeks for the never ending rain to cease, I jumped at my chance this weekend.

Here is what I started with (ok I already started digging but you get the point). Notice the stones in the corner - no grass growing here.

and here is where we ended after 2 days of digging..

Now those flowers just need to get busy growing and fill in those bare spots. The best thing about this bed - it is right next to the driveway so I see it every day.

A colorful afternoon

2008-05-23T09:25:00.003-04:00

Yesterday was one of those odd days when the sun is shining on one side of the road and pouring on the other side. It was prime rainbow weather and we were lucky enough to see 3 different rainbows. As we were driving to swim class I told Sweetcheeks to keep and eye out for a rainbow. As we walked into swim class, there it was a beautiful rainbow. She was so happy to see it we bounced into the pool. When we left that rainbow was gone and the sun was shining brightly but as we drove home another one appeared which was even better then the first because you could see all of the colors this time. We watched it fade as we drove towards home discussing just how lucky we were to see 2 rainbows. The ultimate surprise came when we arrived at our house. There was a double rainbow waiting for us. I ran inside and grabbed the camera as soon as I could, so here it is..

it was a beautiful day.

A case of spots?

2008-05-17T09:35:00.001-04:00

Here is what happens when your child has strep throat and is quarantined inside for 48 hours so she doesn't expose any other children..

Craft kits become make-up. Needless to say she was feeling great as soon as the antibiotics kicked in. It was a long day 2 and finally at 5pm I kicked her outside because she was an uncontrollable ball of energy.

I am a runner.

2008-05-13T12:37:00.003-04:00

I am a runner, or at least I keep telling myself that. For anyone who has ever seen me - I do not look like someone who runs. I never thought I would run either. I couldn't even run in highschool without falling on the ground and dying after completing that one mile for the Presidential fitness test we had to do each fall. Well last fall I decided that after spending 10 months in the gym, I was ready to try running. Of course this meant overcoming a deep seated fear of treadmills. I always envision myself flying off the back and landing in a horrible heap of twisted flesh wrapped around the arc trainer behind them. I started slowly, jogging a minute or two at the end and slowly built up over time. I had a goal in mind. Last Mother's day my DH and I walked in the Philadelphia Race for a Cure 5K. At the time I said that I was going to run it in 2008. My DH, knowing my running ability, said sure honey - but I don't think you can do it.
Well I am proud to say that I did it. Not only did I run it, I ran almost the entire thing. I walked twice during the 3.1 miles. I walked about 10 steps at the water station as I attempted to navigate the piles of paper cups laying on the ground while dumping water across my face (a few drops went in my mouth) and then I walked somewhere around 2.5 miles just to reach the crest of the hill we were running up (30 seconds tops?). The best part for me was the last hill. Someone cruel decided that the finish line should be right after an arched bridge. Therefore you have to run up the bridge before you can run down the other side to the finish. As I was running up the bridge I was in dire amounts of pain. I had side stitches on both of my sides that met in the middle and wrapped all the way around to my back. Others began to walk but I willed myself to run and run I did across the crest and then as fast as I could all of the way to the finish line. I finished in a blazing 36 minutes which is not very fast but I am so proud of myself. It was such an emotional moment as I crossed that line. The crowd is standing there cheering for everyone and I had reached my goal. I almost cried from the sheer emotion of it.
This wasn't the first 5K race I did. My friend J and I ran a race in the beginning of April where I finished in 38 minutes 30 secs with much more walking involved. I also am looking for a good race to do this fall so if anyone has any suggestions let me know. Who knows, this running thing just might stick.

Oh my, has it been that long?

2008-05-13T12:27:00.005-04:00

Life as always has been hectic and while I am a great lurker on other people's blogs I have been neglecting my own for quite some time. Looking at it today I realized that I haven't posted anything since March. March - sheesh so much has happened in there it's hard to even imagine catching up. So here's the quick update and as the days go on and nothing else exciting happens I'll work on filling in the holes. I'll try to keep them under their own headers though so I can be somewhat organized versus rambling on and on...

Oh and in case you were wondering(burning at the top of your mind right?) that Project 365 was not so great. At first it was fun, then it became stressful, then I just dropped it all together(like I need any more stress in my life). While I do have about 2 more weeks of pictures then I actually posted, you will probably never see them. Instead I'll just post the fun ones. Maybe more like project 12 (one for each month?).

16/365

2008-03-03T22:31:00.004-05:00

Some days the bottom falls out of your box of spaghetti....did I mention it's another Monday? This at least happened after dance class.

Also, I have an awful cold, so in order to quell my upset stomach I thought I would stop at Wawa and get myself a snack. I got the celery and PB cup (which is usually awesome). Much to my disappointment, I can't taste anything at all. I ate the entire cup of peanut butter and never tasted any of it. Eating really loses it's appeal when you remove taste. I could feel the cold water from the celery and the creamy texture of the peanut butter but I never tasted a thing. Dinner was the same way, things passed through, but the taste buds never reacted.

15/365

2008-03-02T22:29:00.002-05:00

Twisty- curvy marble madness.

14/365

2008-03-01T22:22:00.001-05:00

It's hard to stop and look cute when all you really want to do is go to your friend's house and play. Really Mom, do I have to? Also notice that it is Saturday and she is still wearing a dress. She wears dresses or skirts everyday even though she has to wear a uniform jumper to school too.

Now that Sweetpea is in school she spends some time at her friend's houses playing. I love it not only for the break I get but also because I have met so many nice parents who I hope we will be able to form friendships with as the years pass.

13/365

2008-02-29T22:18:00.001-05:00

Some days you just need to look at the world from a different angle..like upside down and under the dining room table. Happy Leap year!

12/365

2008-02-28T22:12:00.001-05:00

Project of the week - build a Church and include things you've seen in Church, like the sun which naturally goes with the green grass and blue sky behind the priest. My favorite though is the bright orange church floor. How could you ever go to a service at this Church and not feel inspired (or at least invigorated)?

11/365

2008-02-27T22:03:00.001-05:00

Mass exodus? Thousands of birds were swarming over our house tonight. Just to give you an idea of how many..I had time to drive in our garage, get out of the car, watch them for a few minutes wondering if it was safe to stand under this moving black mass, run in the house, grab the camera, and then snap a few pictures. They didn't seem to be doing anything in particular other then all flying off in the same direction.

Maybe they think our behavior is just as odd when we flock to the mall on Black Friday?

10/365

2008-02-26T21:46:00.001-05:00

Haircuts typically consist of a last minute drop in at the local kids hair cut place. They are wonderful there since no planning ahead is needed (a big plus in my life) and they have custom kid "chairs" to sit on. (Think mall toys without the need for quarters).

This time I happened to have an appointment for myself and since my hair has decided to take a hiatus from growing I switched with Sweetpea. She was very excited to be going to a grown up beauty shop. The newest thing was getting her hair washed. Her neck barely reached the bowl even sitting on a large pillow and she streched out as best as she could. When Krista turned the water on Sweetpea nearly vaulted across the room. After telling her she had to stay back or she would be taking a bath along with her hair, I had to resort to holding her chin while her hair was washed. She was releived to be done and on her way to the cutting chair. We just got a trim, nothing new or exciting, but the best part was the curls. Krista put ringlet curls in her hair with a small braid in the front. The curls were reminescent of a southren belle's, all she needed was the layered hoop skirt. Surprisingly, the curls stayed in until the next day so she was able to show her school friends too.

9/365

2008-02-25T21:38:00.002-05:00

Another Monday....it was one of those days when we rush home from school so we can have a few minutes of down time before dance class. Sweetpea went outside to play and I had a killer headache so I went to lay down on the bed for a few minutes (I set the alarm for 15 minutes later just in case). The alarm went off way too soon for my throbbing head but I proceeded to gather Sweetpea's dance clothes before I went out to call her in. As I went downstairs the door opened and in walks my crying child. She got in a fight with her friend T over whose house to play at and T's mother told them that if they couldn't play nicely they had to go inside. After cuddling her for at least 15 minutes she finally calmed down (and thankfully the Advil began to work too). So we missed another dance class, Monday's are rough, what else can I say?

8/365

2008-02-24T21:36:00.002-05:00

Today was a girl's day out. My latest hobby is scrapbooking so I spent the day with friends at a crop. Here's one of the layouts I did today...

7/365

2008-02-23T23:30:00.004-05:00

Sweetpea stayed overnight at Grammy's house so DH and I had the day to ourselves. I had scheduled a massage for DH as part of our V-Day present (I had my massage last week thanks to DH - love ya babe!). That meant that I had a whole hour to myself today! I decided to go and get my nails manicured. I haven't had a manicure done in years, I occasionally paint my own nails, but I enjoy the look of a professional job. I also had the girl wax my eyebrows so I am freshly trimmed and painted. Look out world here I come!

6/365

2008-02-22T23:14:00.001-05:00

Snow day, snow day, let's all stay home and play in the snow day. Today it snowed, finally (we got about 4 inches with a nice drizzle of rain/ice on top). School was cancelled and so we both decided to stay home and enjoy the day. We have a hill behind our house which we curse at 3/4 of the year as we struggle to push the lawn mower over it, but in winter, it makes the best sledding hill around. The kids spent the day sledding (rolling, wrestling) down the hill alone, in pairs, and all together. Even the adults (ok, just DH and me) joined in the sledding fun. We finished the day with a cup of hot chocolate and eventually the kids decided to come inside to play just to get dry (and to remove the snowballs from their hair). It was a great day - snow days are fun no matter what your age!

5/365

2008-02-21T23:02:00.000-05:00

Ahhh, the cool refreshing waters.. in the middle of February, when it's 30 degress outside. Yes, we spend our winters swimming. Sweetpea loves to swim and she loves swim class even more. This week she was learning how to lay her head on her shoulder to breathe mid-stroke and how to dive into the pool from a half-kneel (instead of sitting on the edge). It appears that she is half fish with as natural as she is in the water. She has just a few weeks left before she moves up to an advanced swimming class for older kids and she can't wait.

4/365

2008-02-20T22:45:00.001-05:00

This day was all about sleeping. I was too tired to do anything so Sweetpea and I spent the night snuggling while we watched this classic..

3/365

2008-02-19T22:50:00.000-05:00

I'm a bit ashamed to admit, this is what our refrigerator rountinely looks like...it's empty. Basically, I prefer to go grocery shopping only out of desperation. I have to say that I did take the time to clean the refrigerator and organize it before taking this picture. I not only wanted to hide the fact that there was a sour cream lid stuck in the back of the refrigerator under a drawer for almost a year, but it has been on my to do list for about the same amount of time. So it appears that this Project will not only keep me motivated to track our routine lives, it will force me to clean the refrigerator. Hmm, maybe this should be a Works for me Wednesday post too?

In case anyone is concerned that Sweetpea and hubby are wasting away to nothing, I did go shopping immediately after taking this picture. We now have food to sustain us a few more weeks until the refrigerator returns to the pictured state.

2/365

2008-02-18T21:25:00.003-05:00

Where is the best place to hide your Valentine's candy so Dad won't eat it? How about behind the audio tower? Just be sure to put it upside down so if Dad does see it, he won't recognize it.

1/365

2008-02-18T20:43:00.002-05:00

The last time Dear hubby and I went to a restaurant where reservations were required was almost 6 years ago. We decided the other day that the streak had to come to an end. This Sunday the perfect opportunity was upon us since Sweetpea was spending the night at Grammy's house due to the President's day holiday. We made reservations at a restaurant in Philly right next to City Hall. It is call Fogo de Chao and is a Brazilian steak house. The meal is a "continuous service" meal where waiters walk - run around the restaurant carrying large skewers of meat and a very large knife. It is actually quite terrifying and I was waiting for a tragedy to happen at any moment.

We began with the salad bar, which was amazing in itself with it's plethora of fresh vegetables, breads, cheeses, smoked salmon, artichoke hearts (not canned either), and more and more. After taking a little of everything we returned to our table where the BEST tasting wine I've ever had was waiting for us. We ordered an Italian chianti and it was rich and smooth with a beautiful red color and sweet yet delicate taste. I brought the cork home so I can remember the name (italian names are not my strong point). The waiter then brings the 4 side dishes, cheese bread knots, garlic mashed potatoes, fried bananas, and polenta (fried corn bread). The system works with a two sided disc that is given to each diner, one side red (No thank-you) and green (yes, please). The second you flip it to green one of the many chef/waiters runs to your table offering you a cut of the meat. We had the opportunity to sample many cuts in numerous degrees of doneness. The roast leg of lamb was divine and obviously marinated for hours. The lamb chops were perfectly cooked, tender on the inside with a crisp outside grilled coating. The various cuts of sirloin ranged from garlic infused steak to pure roasts. There was also bacon wrapped filet and chicken, small chicken legs, and the best sausage we ever had.

We spent hours picking our way through the meat selection while our plates were changed to a fresh one the moment you thought it looked dirty, the side dishes were replenished to keep them warm, and the service overall was impecable. We finished off our meal with equally wonderful desserts (which you actually have to pick just one) and then made our way to walk around the city for a bit waiting to be able to take a deep breath again. It was a warm night for February and the slight mist stopped for us to enjoy our walk.

If you are looking for a new experience, this restaurant screams manliness with all of the meat (and there were many parties of just men there) but I enjoyed it immensely. I am looking forward to going back again but I wouldn't recommend small children go there, there are just too many knives running around bigger then most 3 year olds.

A way to keep me motivated?

2008-02-18T19:20:00.002-05:00

I like to lurk around several blogs..one of them is The Gremlin Wrangler. Her tales of life with boys is amusing and I love her letters to her shoppers. A few days ago she started a project based on Project 365. The thought instantly occurred to me that YES this is what I need! If I do this then I would have an obligation to post (and actually a challenge to post) something for each day. So feel free to join in, let's see your daily life in photographic details.

A trip to Africa

2008-02-11T08:33:00.000-05:00

I've been watching two bloggers as they embark on a trip to Africa with Compassion. I am going to sign up to sponser a child becuase of the things they have written. If you want to check out their trip as they blog their way through Africa go to http://rocksinmydryer.typepad.com/ or http://www.boomama.net/ I also included a link in my sidebar if you want to sponser a child too.

Inspired Spaces

2008-01-25T15:05:00.002-05:00

I am always looking for new design ideas and I found this new blog. Check it out and submit any questions you might have about your space. I hope to get more then a few ideas from here to satisfy my desire to decorate things when I have no clue where to start. Hmm maybe someone should come to my house and re-design it for me. Now that sounds like a plan!! Any volunteers?

Marriage Meme

2008-01-25T12:12:00.000-05:00

Ok, I saw this a long time ago and I filled it out then but I never posted it. I am so super busy lately I haven't posted anything so I thought I would revive this one. I hope to have some writing time this weekend to catch up on things! Enjoy...the history of my marriage...

1. Where/How did you meet? We met in high school. He was a year above me. I dated his friends, he dated my friends, we always knew each other but never really spent a lot of time with each other. He graduated and I never really thought about him again until I ran into him where he worked. I was out to dinner with my family and he asked me if I got his letter he sent me. For some random reason I had included my address in his year book when I signed it. I hadn't received the letter yet because my family had a P.O. box and we only picked up our mail once or twice a week(I know how awful but the only thing the mail brings is bills right?). He, of course, felt stupid and was embarrassed and I was endlessly picked on by my family for the entire meal. The very next day I went to get the mail so I could see the letter. Basically it was a "hey how are you doing?" letter and I immediately sent a reply back. I was not nice and indicated that if he was looking for someone to date he should call my one friend who had a huge crush on him and who I knew he didn't like at all. I also put my phone number in there. He of course called me and we went on our first date where I fell in love with him the moment he kissed me. Then I went to college and being what it is we broke up since I decided to date someone else. We went our separate ways and we both grew up a lot which was a very good thing. I finally realized I was stupid to leave him since I truly loved him, I called him up and he was dating someone else. Then one day I came home and there he was, waiting on my front porch. We of course got back together, were engaged 9 months later, and the rest is history.

2. How long have you known each other? since I started high school in 89

3. How long after you met did you start dating? 3 years?

4. How long did you date before you were engaged? after we got back together....9 months

5. How long was your engagement? 2 years - had to wait for me to graduate from college

6. How long have you been married? 10.5 years

7. What is your anniversary? June 28th

8. How many people came to your wedding reception: 125?

9. What kind of cake did you serve? Ummm vanilla? I know it had whipped icing and it was so good people asked for seconds.

10. Where was your wedding? The church where I went to grade school. Prettiest church I have ever seen.

11. What did you serve for your meal? I don't remember. It was buffet style. I'm sure there was chicken of some sort. My mother-in-law made these pastry cookie things.

12. How many people were in your bridal party? 6 plus a flower girl and a ring bearer.

13. Are you still friends with them all? We only speak to one of our bridesmaids and with our best man regularly. The other 2 groomsmen we see rarely. The flower girl and ring bearer we see all of the time since they are our niece and nephew.

14. Did your spouse cry during the ceremony? No, I did walking down the aisle though. He cried at the rehearsal instead.

15. Most special moment of your wedding day? It's hard to pick one, I think walking down the aisle with my Dad.

16. Any funny moments? Well we had a Catholic wedding and there I was with this huge flower arrangement in my hand, the priest came over to where we were kneeling to give us Communion and I couldn't figure out how to hold the bouquet and receive the Host. I just continued holding the flowers in my left hand and held out my right hand by itself. Then I had to get it from my hand to my mouth in some way(think licking it off my hand). It was quite funny and I got crap from the old Catholics about it later. I just didn't have time to think ahead or I would have received it directly in my mouth. (I remembered to do this though for my Sweetpea's baptism when I was holding her instead of flowers.)

Also when we got back to our room after the reception I had to get DH to rip me out of my dress. Since my dress was homemade and it had a lace back, my grandmother sewed me into it that morning since it looked better then a button and she was afraid an eye-hook wouldn't stay shut. He asked me if I was kidding when I told him to rip it open.

17. Any big disasters? Nope - other then being hot it was all good.

18. Where did you go on your honeymoon? Sandals St Lucia

19. How long were you gone? 1 glorious week

20. If you were to do your wedding over, what would you change? If I ever got married again, I would elope. All the planning and then it's just over, done, finished. It was such a let down when the excitement ended. I had been working on it for so long I just didn't know what to do with myself.

21. What side of the bed do you sleep on? When laying on the bed I am on the right side.

22. What size is your bed? King - although the first 4 years we had a double bed, the King bed is the first thing we bought when we moved into our house.

23. Greatest strength as a couple?Laughter - he keeps me laughing and is my opposite so he balances me out.

24. Greatest challenge as a couple? Finances - someone in the family likes to buy stuff and/or go lots of places - all of the time.

25. Who literally pays the bills? I do

26. What is your song? There are so many that mean different things. Our upbeat song is "Paradise by the dashboard light" by Meatloaf. Our lovey dovey mushy song is "Can you feel the Love Tonight?" (Lion King version) since it is the song from when we got back together.

27. What did you dance your first dance to? Canon in G Major by Pachebel.

28. Describe your wedding dress: The dress and headpiece were handmade by my grandmother (she even used the leftover lace to make Sweetpea's baptismal dress). See pictures below...

29. What kind of flowers did you have at your wedding? Star gazer Lilies

30. Are your wedding bands engraved? Nope

Christmas Meme

2007-12-19T22:00:00.000-05:00

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags?

Wrapping Paper all the way - at least at Christmas time. For Birthdays I also go for the quick and recycled gift bag but there is something special about picking out Christmas paper. I also just enjoy wrapping each gift and then adding dressings to make them even nicer. In my own way this is part of the present I give.

2. Real tree or artificial?

Real and only real. The fresh scent of pine, the hunt, the climbing under it to water it every day, and the trail of pine needles left behind, I never want to give up any of that. We also now have the best tree stand ever which makes the tree even easier.

3. When do you put up the tree?

Typically 2 weeks before Christmas, any earlier and we would have to kick it out before New Year's due to the increasing fire hazard.

4. When do you take the tree down?

The first weekend after New Year's.

5. Do you like eggnog?

No Thank you!!

6. Favorite gift received as a child?

I'm not sure if it was a Christmas gift but I was given a ride on horse that was made out of juice cans. The cans were covered in a soft brown fur and there was a rubber horse head on the front of it. I was afraid of lightening and I remember sitting on that horse hugging his head for protection. Kind of humorous considering his body was metal. I loved that poor thing to death, I think eventually his fur fell apart from me dragging it around the house.

7. Do you have a nativity scene?

Absolutely, with many guests to the party made lovingly by my aunt.

8. Hardest person to buy for?

The teenage boys in the family - it seems all they want is money. Well they must be planning on buying something with the money, I wish they would let me know what it is so I could buy it instead of giving them cash.

9. Easiest person to buy for?

My Sweet Pea. Thanks to TV she wants just about everything in any commercial or any sale circular. I also like to buy toys that I find fun so I can play with something I like too.

10. Worst Christmas gift you ever received?

I can't think of any...every Christmas gift, even if it ends up in my closet was given to me by someone special and I always appreciate the effort. Have I received bad gifts (or useless ones), of course, but I just joke about it with hubby and forget it. I guess I just haven't been lucky enough yet to receive something so horrible that it is memorable.

11. Mail or email Christmas cards?

Christmas cards need to be mailed - how else can people like me tape them to our doors and windows? Plus this is the only time of year I look forward to a full mailbox.

12. Favorite Christmas Movie?

Serious movie - It's a Wonderful Life; Funny Movie - A Christmas Story; Cartoon Show - The Grinch (this is also my cell phone ring tone this time of year)

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas?

Typically the first week in December. I do look throughout the year for ideal presents but I use lists in December.

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present?

Absolutely - I admit it. If I received 2 of the same thing (and I'm not good at returning items to stores anyway), or something I know I just won't use but someone else will love, I will pass it on.

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas?

Hmmm , toss up between Turkey and Toll house cookies.

16. Clear lights or colored on the tree?

Colored - I think they are more festive. White is very pretty but I just feel they are too stark and glaring for me. Also all of the other lights in the house are white year-round, color makes it special for Christmas.

17. Favorite Christmas song?

I can't pick just one...I have too many good memories of a lot of songs. I love to hear the Little Drummer boy and after Sweet Pea's Christmas program the other night I think Mary Did you Know? is especially wonderful.

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home?

I would love to stay home but we travel close to home. First to MIL for presents and lunch then off to my family for dinner and more presents.

19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer?

Of course, what mother of a 5 year old can't?

20. Angel on the tree top or a star?

Angel. Our angel is currently a fire hazard and we still won't give her up. When we were married we searched numerous stores for a pretty angel with a plesant face. About a month after we bought her I saw she was recalled. Oops - too bad, I'm not giving her back. We've had her 10 years now and not one single fire.

21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning?

Both. We have a tradition of opening gifts from each other in my family on Christmas eve and from "Santa" on Christmas day.

22. Most annoying thing about this time of year?

It is so depressing after the decorations come down. We need more holidays after Christmas and Valentines day just doesn't count in my book.

23. What I most love about Christmas.

As cliched as it sounds - giving people special things and all the preparation that goes into it. I try every year to surprise someone with something unique and special.

The voice of an angel

2007-12-19T21:42:00.000-05:00

I wasn't sure what to call this post. It was a toss up between "The next American Idol winner" or "The voice of an angel". Considering the response elicited by this sweet voice, I had to go with angel.
Last night was Sweet Pea's Christmas recital at school. We had the traditional yelling of songs from K, 1st, and 2nd grades along with a few mumbled songs from 3rd and 4th. There was also a very nice violin solo from a 6th grade boy and several songs on the chimes and recorders. The most outstanding part of the evening was when a small un-assuming little 5th grade girl walked up on stage to sing her solo.
This small girl had the only solo of the night. Her song was "Mary did you know?" and when she started to sing the entire room broke out in tears. The depth and beauty of her voice was amazing and the feeling she brought to that song was incredible. If you could have seen her and then heard this voice you wouldn't believe it came from her. Every person in the room was weeping as she sang of the wonders Jesus would do in his life. I even saw teenagers, who I'm sure were forced to be there, crying as she sang. When she was finished she gave a quick tiny "Thank you" and ducked off the stage. We all immediately stood and clapped as loudly as possible and this sweet girl burst into tears in her Principal's arms. She was so nervous to sing and she did a wonderful job.
I can only imagine where the years will take her and I am feel blessed just to have heard her this one time. I hope God continues to bless her and that her voice continues to touch people the way she did last night.

A Holiday House Tour

2007-12-19T07:28:00.000-05:00

I am a few days late but as Christmas approaches and my "To do" list never seems to shrink, I figure better late then not at all. I saw that BooMama was giving a holiday house tour and I thought it would be fun to at least get a few pictures posted of our own happy home. So please come inside and enjoy the view.

Here is a picture of a wreath I recently made to replace our 6 year old smashed beyond recognition wreath. I have to admit I made it because I was inspired by a friend's sister who made the most beautiful wreath ever. Prior to this I had the 6 year old smashed wreath on our front door.

Once you come inside the door you will find this happy couple waiting to greet you. They are one of my favorite decorations and, like all the other ceramics in my house, were made by my great aunt. To give you an idea of their size they stand about 2.5 feet tall.

Now as you look up from these smiling faces you will see this .... (notice the same ribbon here as on the wreath above). Now proceed down the hall into our family room and take a look at the mantel. The Santa's are again hand painted by my wonderful Aunt.
If you glance over to the right you will see this beautiful arrangement. I couldn't get all of the pieces in the picture but let me just tell you, we have a rockin' party. We have the basic Wise men, camels, animals etc but we also have music (drummer boy and flute player), people offering food, and a whole flock of sheep and multiple shepherds. Again all done in hand painted ceramics, my Aunt is a blessing to all of us.
If you turn around now you will see our Christmas tree. We put it up 2 weeks ago after performing our traditional hunt for the perfect tree. I love the way the branches go all the way to the floor. I think we did a great job this year. Our decorations are just a mix of everything we have collected or had given to us, nothing themed or fancy here.
Since our mantle has Santa, our stockings are hung here in the breakfast area. (There are 4 because the cat gets one too).and in our dining room we have 8 little reindeer waiting for Santa to get back in the sleigh (again made by my Aunt - notice a theme here?). And last but not least, I got this from Current when we moved in the house and I still think it is so cute. We have many more decorations but I just wanted to highlight a few things. If anyone wants to stop over for some holiday cheer - give me a ring!

Merry Christmas everyone!!!

Snowy lights..

2007-12-04T12:26:00.000-05:00

Ok, remember the FallY'all giveaway? Well I am finally posting pictures of the candles I painted for that giveaway. I actually made them two weeks after the giveaway ended. But it seems there was a bit of a delay since I had to actually get to a store to buy the candles first. Then after I painted them I had to figure out how I was going to ship them. When I suggested I would make these it never occurred to me that I needed a transportation vessel to get them to their new owners. I looked all around my house for two suitable containers and I found nothing. I kept delaying hoping that something would turn up and it did. I recently took a trip to Walmart to buy tape to replace the numerous rolls of tape used by Sweetpea in her decorating efforts and there they were in the tape aisle, an entire collection of boxes for sale. Now I don't think I have ever purchased a cardboard box since I am the hoarding type but I shelled out the 77 cents a piece for some sturdy new boxes. I finally had some way of transporting these candles from PA to WA and IL. After boxing these babies up I sent them on their way and it only took me an additional 2 days to get to the post office before they closed.

If you want to take a peek at what was in the boxes here is a picture...

Hopefully the winners will enjoy them. I am not an artist by any means but I think these are cute and I like making them. I have 9 made so far and now I have to finish the rest of my painted presents before Christmas (no more snowmen though - I also do some Christmas trees, moose, and Santa Clauses for variety).

I hope all of your Christmas projects are going well too!

What's for lunch?

2007-11-12T07:00:00.000-05:00

When Sweetpea was in daycare I never had to worry about what she would eat. They served breakfast, lunch, and snacks and there were no substitutions. Either the kids ate or they didnt, the motto being "you get what you get and you don't make a fit." This was wonderful. Now that we are in real school Sweetpea has figured out she has a choice which means we have conversations like this one..

Mom: Hey for lunch tomorrow they are having Beef BBQ sandwiches. If you don't want that you can get the alternate lunch of a Bologna and cheese sandwich.
Sweetpea: Can't you just pack me a bologna and cheese sandwich?
Mom: Well I could but then I would have to go to the grocery store since you are eating the last 2 pieces of bread right now.
Sweetpea : Ok go to the store.
Mom : I don't want to go to the store tonight. Listen - I would really appreciate if you could just buy the sandwich.
Sweetpea : Well I DON'T appreciate buying it, but I will. (said with a pout on her face).

So today she is buying her lunch. Yippee. Best of all I think there are 2 more times this week I might be able to convince her to buy too.

Heart to Heart Conversations

2007-11-08T12:46:00.000-05:00

Sometimes in life there are those moments where words are left unsaid. They are thought but never uttered for various reasons. This reason is typically based in fear (of rejection, of hurting the other person, of just sounding plain silly). We also hold words in for fear of exposing our true selves, even to those we love the most. I know I am guilty of doing this. I suspect (or hope I suppose) that we all do this.
Then comes the time when things have to be said, they have to be aired or they eat away at you. These are the things you come to realize should have been said in the moment but once again you held back. Last night we (hubby and myself) had one of those conversations. The kind that I cry through as I say all of the awful things I can't bear to even hear outloud and as I say them they twist like a knife in my heart. These are things that need to be said for my own fragile sanity yet they hurt.
The amazing thing to me is that all of the things I am afraid to say my husband can handle. He doesn't crumble into pieces and he still loves me (even if I think I am hurting him). Even after 10 years of marriage he still amazes me. So is our marriage perfect? No, but is marriage ever perfect? Is our marriage worth working at and making better, absolutely. So I will try. I will be honest with myself; I will be honest with my husband. I am sure that I will cry again but it makes us stronger. Us - together - as it was meant to be.

Growing up too fast

2007-11-05T09:46:00.000-05:00

I took some random pictures of my girl this weekend just because I love taking her picture. After looking at them I can't help but wonder where my baby went...she is too grown up for me even when she is posing with her favorite My little Ponies.

We also added a new pet to the family. Her name is Hammy and she is a black bear hamster. We gave our dog away a month or so ago to save my sanity and the hamster was the item traded for. We are hoping she does well and doesn't get sick like my nephew's poor hamsters do. He is on hamster # 5 and #6 already and only started buying them about 4 weeks ago. Because of this we have a strict no touching policy in place since we are told they need at least 2 weeks to acclimate without feeling stressed. Any advice for raising a hamster let me know!

And the winners are...

2007-11-04T16:52:00.000-05:00

Yes - That's right the Fall W'all giveaway has ended and I decided that I would send out 2 candles. I used Random.org to generate my numbers and the winners are......
WindyCindy and Christina.

I will make them their custom painted candles this week and I will post some photos here before I send them out.

Congratulations to all who won!

Fall Giveaway

2007-10-31T06:54:00.001-04:00

Ok - So after checking out many of the giveaways over at Bloggy Giveaways I can't help but get involved in the spirit of giving too. I will be giving away a hand painted jar candle with a snowman theme on it. I paint these for friends and family as gifts at Christmas time using a one stroke method of painting.

You can specify what colors you want your snowman to be wearing (think scarves and hats) in the comments. I will coordinate the color/scent of the candle with the colors you choose (think dark rich colors like green, blue, maroon, purple, etc. they look the best against the white snowmen). Just leave a comment before Saturday Nov. 3rd and I will have my daughter pick a random number for the winner.

Here is the fine print…
1. Leave me a comment on this posting WITH A VALID EMAIL ADDRESS - I must have a way to contact you if you are a winner.
2. Duplicate entries and entries without a valid email address will be deleted.
3. You do not need to have a blog to enter to win, only an email address.
4. You do have to have a U.S. shipping address, sorry.

I'll email the winner and post the winner’s name on my blog. You'll need to respond back to me with a valid shipping address within 48 hours of notification that you've won or I'll pick an alternate winner.

Good Luck to ALL and have fun with all of the giveaways!

In the spirit of Halloween..

2007-10-22T21:12:00.000-04:00

Halloween has to be one of the best times of the year. It signals the beginning of beautiful fall weather, fun activities, and all of the decorating you can stand. One tradition that I love is carving pumpkins. On Saturday we went to our favorite Pick your own everything place (Weavers Orchard) and participated in the fall festival. We climbed aboard the first hayride we found and took a 10 minute jaunt through all the orchards to arrive directly across the street from where we started. Here we picked our way through a pumpkin patch to find the perfect pumpkins. Now according to Sweetpea we needed a small, medium, and large pumpkin. Sweetpea snagged the first small pumkin she spotted and only with some gentle prodding traded it in for a pumpkin I liked. DH walked around for 15 minutes trying to find the perfect large pumpkin with no luck. I wanted a tall oval shaped pumpkin and finally found one right before we were to catch our ride back across the street.

Once we all piled off the hayride we enjoyed some cool apple cider and water. DH then selected a VERY large pumpkin from the already picked pile and we carried our haul all the way to the cars.

Unfortuately due to a previous commitment (see Mom's fix-it service) we were unable to carve them Saturday night. First thing Sunday morning Sweetpea begged me to carve hers. We spent at least an hour on Saturday evening discussing how she wanted it carved. She finally settled on a classic face pattern. As I was about to begin, I asked one More time - is this what you want? She of course changed her mind - again - and decided on the spider. Here is the result..

Sunday night I had time to work on my own. I chose a classic Disney villan, Malecifent from Sleeping Beauty.

Chris finally carved his pumpkin and he choose a classic evil face...

So those are our pumpkins for the year. We have them proudly displayed on our front sidewalk. I coated them in bleach first to prevent mold and then vaseline so they don't dry out. I hope they last until Halloween. Otherwise I'll just have to carve more..darn..wouldn't that be fun!

Mom's Fix-it service

2007-10-22T10:23:00.000-04:00

One day my Sweetpea will look back remember all of the fond times we have had together. Hopefully she won't reflect back and wonder why Mom was always fixing things instead of playing with her though.

I once again spent a portion of the weekend at my MIL's house fixing things for her. This time I was building a radiator cover (she has those old large metal radiators). I do think it turned out rather well but I will spend several more hours there next weekend filling in nail holes and staining the wood edging on it. I am a one woman fix it crew (with some help from the hubby when I need lifting/holding help). I even have my traveling bucket of tools. FYI - I am not for hire though, I provide plenty of free labor to keep me busy year round.

My Sweetpea was good and waited patiently in the living room playing electronic Yahtzee while I hammered away. The only visits I got from her were the numerous times she came running in to tell me she got another Yahtzee - I really don't know how she does it. Her highest score was 344, remind me never to challenge her to a game.

I do hope though, that since I drag her along to all of my projects that she will be able to install her own lighting, fix her floors, and all of the other stuff that needs to be done in a house when she is older. I consider myself privileged to have grown up in a family where we had to fix our own broken pipes, floors, etc since I learned how to do it too and that is my hope for her as well. Maybe one day she can even be the star on one of my favorite DIY network shows.

The 5 year old check-up

2007-10-15T23:11:00.001-04:00

Last week was Sweetpea's 5 year old check up. I look forward to these visits since I get a comparison of how she has grown since last year and it gives you peace of mind to have a doctor run through the checklist too. I also dread these appointments because they always entail some laundry list of vaccinations. I am a huge proponent of vaccinations (my daily job is to send vaccines to the market for use so how can I not support them) but Sweetpea is not a fan of shots and can't even stand to talk about the idea.
The visit started as always with the nurse checking her vital signs, height, weight etc. In the last year Sweetpea has grown 4.5 inches (for a total of 46.5 inches) and gained 9 lbs (for a total of 56 lbs). That places her squarely in the 90% range of the growth chart which is where she has been since she was born. The doctor indicated that her height and weight are good for her even though she has a belly that comes and go depending on the time of day.
The second part of her visit was the hearing and eye test. She did this last year but didn't remember it. The nurse put the earphones on her, faced her away from the machine, and instructed her to raise her hand when she heard the sound. The nurse began pressing the buttons with no reaction elicited from Sweetpea. She just sat there with this puzzled look on her face. The nurse kept asking - how about now - hear anything? I was a bit concerned at first but after we went through the entire range on each ear, I figured something was wrong with the machine. I may think she has a hearing problem since I am always repeating myself but I believe that is just selective hearing. The nurse tried the earphones on herself and yes the instrument was working just fine. Ok - let's try again. The nurse starts pushing buttons again while prompting Sweetpea to respond and she still is shaking her head no. The nurse then asked - do you hear anything at all. Sweetpea responded - "All I hear is that doorbell ringing from out in front". After we had a quick chuckle we explained to her that she should raise her hand for the doorbell too. This enabled her to pass the test with flying colors then - that darn doorbell. You have to wonder what she thought she would hear.
The eye test was uneventful - I could have told you she has eagle eyes. We then went back for our quick physical exam and then they save the best for last. Sweetpea needed to get 4 shots. The doctor quickly informed us of this, then left the room while the nurses prepared the shots. They needed 2 people so it took at least 10 minutes for them to come back. In the meantime, I was left with a whining child who is getting more upset about the awful shots by the minute. Luckily I remembered some of the Halloween songs she is learning in school and so I sang those to her and it was wonderful since it stopped the whining.
Shots involve her sitting on my lap while I hold her hands and arms tightly. A nurse then lined up on each side with two syringes ready to go. She was only focusing on the nurse on the left side and Sweetpea kept saying "I'm not ready" as both of the nurses were sticking her anyway. The fact that they didn't wait made her mad and she gave them a very nasty... "I SAID I WASN'T READY!" when they were done. In the end it wasn't too bad. I didn't get kicked, she didn't scream like a banshee, and due to the anger the crying ended almost instantaneously.
So it will be another year until we return (with any luck) and the doctor said that she is all done until she turns 11 with shots (except that yearly Flu shot). Best of all, it looks like she is right on track to hit 48 inches by next summer. 48 inches is the magic number since then she can go on the kind of big rides at amusement parks. Since she is an amusement park junkie (we can't imagine where she got that from) this is a huge goal for her.

Here's the latest project..

2007-10-15T22:40:00.000-04:00

Things around the circle have been very busy (which is of course normal) but we have also been painting the walls and installing a new hardwood floor in our dining room. This can help explain my prolonged absence (in addition to the fact that I actually have to do work while at work instead of blogging).

We began our project 2 weeks ago. We tore out the carpeting which was installed by the builder so it came up with almost no effort and our WONDERFUL garbage men took it in one large rolled up piece. Those guys are great and therefore are always on my Christmas list. We then painted the walls a beautiful deep green since we both love color in our house with a classic white ceiling. The trim is bright white as well. We may tackle a chair rail soon, but that won't be before Christmas at least.

We had decided that we wanted to install nail down bamboo (an earth friendly choice since bamboo is a grass that can harvested every 7 years or so). We went and bought all of our supplies, rented a pneumatic floor nailer and away we went. The first row was the hardest since we had to make sure it was perfect and square, but after that the floor sailed along beautifully. It took us about 8 hours to put it in (which includes all of the cutting, laying the padding, etc.). The hardest part was the final rows which had to be hand nailed and let me tell you - bamboo is not a soft wood - just ask the many bent nails in the trash can. Unfortunately when we purchased our wood, we had to order the two finishing pieces for the doorway. They finally came in this past Saturday and I was able to finish nailing down the trim tonight.

Sweetpea can now have her playroom back since the dining room table won't be residing there any longer and I can sweep all of the sawdust from our garage for the last time (until the next project begins). I can say that I am now very experienced in using the miter saw and the jigsaw. Here are some pictures of our dining room

Overall I love this floor! I was so happy with the quality of the wood and we are looking to put a dark cherry in our family room next.

and the Honors begin to accumulate

2007-10-03T12:12:00.000-04:00

Ok so I can't help but brag about my Sweetpea. If you don't like bragging stop reading now.........Ok for those who care (or are just nosey) Sweetpea has been awarded the Star Student of the Month Award. Yes, that's right, her first official month of school and she is already bringing home awards. She is one of 4 students in the ENTIRE school (that's right all 9 grades (K-8)) to receive this award. Her award was given to her for "outstanding service to others". So what did she do to receive this tremendous award that gets her name put on the bulletin board for all to see you ask? She gave up her seat in music class to another little girl. As the story goes, all the kids ran over to sit at the tables and once Sweetpea was sitting down there was one seat left. Another little girl (K) was coming over to sit there when a faster kid swept in and plopped in the chair. K was of course upset and began to cry so Sweetpea got up and gave her the chair she was using. Sweetpea then went and sat at a different table. Yes, apparently every now and then, little acts of kindness do get recognized (and miracles happen when kids remember to be kind). So I am writing this now so the next time she does something mean and nasty (not that my angel ever would) I have someplace to point to and say but look she can be nice too!

WFMW - Ask for help issue..

2007-10-03T06:42:00.000-04:00

Today's WFMW is a backwards day and I have been looking forward to this. I actually have 2 issues so please offer all of the advice you can.

1.) My first question has to do with play-doh. How can I get ground in, dried up play-doh out of my carpet? It seems that when my neighbor's daughter was over to play she didn't think that the table was so good for play-doh since the floor is so much easier to reach. Anyway - since it's happened I've just been placing the play tent over that spot when we have company. I would like to remove it though without removing the whole carpet...any ideas?

2.) My second dilemma is how do you teach a child to ride a bike. My sweetpea is 5 now and all of her friends on our street can ride without training wheels. In addition, she is just too heavy for training wheels to balance her effectively anyway. We have spent several sessions of me running next to her holding the back of the seat while she cries hysterically because she wants to do it but she is terrified of falling and we aren't getting anywhere that way. This is not a pretty scene for either of us. I need help and fast or I might be hanging from my balcony by the end of the week. So what worked for you? All ideas are appreciated and will be tried!

WFMW - Safe from the "Magic Potty"

2007-09-26T11:40:00.000-04:00

Today's WFMW edition has to do with those self flushing toilets. These are great and wonderful inventions since it limits the number of times I go in a stall at a public restroom and get disgusted by what is in there. Since I have a child who has to pee every 5 minutes I know intimately all about public restrooms. The problem with the magic potty is that it is not designed for little people. This means that when Sweetpea leans way over to get some toilet paper, the toilet will flush. Many of these have a super flush suck everything down water pressure issue that scares the pants right off my kid even if they weren't around her ankles. When we first started using these bathrooms, there would be much whining if it was magic and I would have to straddle her on the toilet so I could keep my hand over the magic eye so it couldn't "see" her. One day I happened to have a Walmart sticker on my shirt and so I stuck it over the magic eye - voila - no more accidental flushes and no more stretching over a peeing child while trying not to touch anything else. Of course I didn't have a steady supply of stickers on me so I thought of the next best thing, POST-IT notes! These are cheap, easy to come by, self sticking miracles. Now when Sweetpea has to go and it's magic, she asks me for a sticky paper and off she goes by herself. She puts the paper over the eye, does her stuff making sure her clothes are back in place, then pulls the paper off, drops it in the toilet, and runs as fast as she can out of there. These have been our savior at most restrooms. I use the small one inch ones, if you use huge ones be careful about dropping it in the bowl, you may want to put it in the trash can instead. Another thing that is convenient about having a pack of these on you at all times, if you ever need to give anyone some information (phone #, etc), you just happen to have the perfect piece of paper to put it on.

For more WFMW ideas check out Rocks in My Dryer

Elected to office already

2007-09-24T21:35:00.000-04:00

Today is a proud moment. My Sweetpea has just been elected as class representative for her kindergarten class. That means she will attend monthly meetings with all the other class representatives to make all of those important school decisions like what kind of Popsicles to have at lunch. I can't wait to hear the details of the intricate workings of student government from the kindergarten level. I'm sure this is only the beginning of a long and prestigious political career. Look out presidency...here she comes.

Closest to God

2007-09-20T18:52:00.000-04:00

I am a religious person in many ways. I am a Catholic by choice but I don't agree with every teaching the church has, just the majority of them. I choose to be a practicing Catholic because this is where I feel closest to God. I also have many other beliefs that the church would oppose but in my heart I don't believe that God would. Either way, with or without the support of the church, I choose to believe what I want to. Most of all I believe that yes there is a God, that without God we wouldn't be here and He has a major impact on our lives.

One thing I came to realize by having a baby is just how close they are to God. I truly believe that being that new and so close to just leaving heaven, children have a deep and true understanding of where they came from. I never thought about it this way before Sweetpea though. It probably also helps that their brains aren't cluttered with useless information yet. There were many times that Sweetpea would talk to me about God and heaven. At these times I was always amazed to see the reaction in her face ( I believe she was actually glowing with peace at times) as she talked about heaven and how nice it is there and how beautiful God is. She didn't know the typical words we use and I didn't prompt her for things, often times she would just make passing comments. Through her I was able to get a glimpse of heaven and the peace and beauty that is there and waiting for all of us.

Another thing I have come to have a deeper belief in through her is the existence of past lives. I know this can be a controversial topic for some but as I said earlier, I believe what I want and you can do the same. I always had a casual interest in the possibility that our souls have had the chance to live on this Earth more then once. From the time Sweetpea could put a few words together (and trust me she has been talking non-stop since she was 1) she would occasionally mention things she did before she was with us. She would specifically say that when she didn't live here but somewhere else she did...this and that. Her descriptions were so realistic I can't deny they were the truth. She has also indicated that she was more then one person and she has told me of things that happened to her in different times. I wish I had written down exactly what she said right away so she could see it someday. Instead I have to rely on my fading memory of the few things she mentioned. If I can remember them in detail I will add them later, I am afraid that if I try to force my memory I will add things she didn't say so I will leave my thoughts floating around for a few days and see what I can recall.

As she has gotten older she has stopped talking about these things all together. I suppose you could contribute her ideas to a child's imagination but I think she really did have these memories and that as she gets more involved in this life, her other memories have faded. Now instead of telling me her memories, she asks me questions about the things she is learning in Church and school. It's been at least a year since she's mentioned anything else; she still has her childlike innocence and her basic trust that what we tell her about God is true but I actually miss that insight she gave me. I do wonder though if her obsession with the french language is a vestige of these memories.

Multiple toothbrushes

2007-09-19T12:13:00.000-04:00

Today's WFMW edition is all about making things such as basic hygiene convenient and easy in order to avoid battles with the offspring. Getting said offspring back up the stairs to brush her teeth after she has already walked down them was becoming a daily battle. Usually she would just suggest that I give her a piece of gum to make her breath smell good (I guess I should have never told her that one) instead of having to walk all of the way back up the stairs just to get clean teeth. Since I do not like arguing first thing in the morning I decided to move her toothbrush downstairs to our powder room. Then the next problem developed, you have to remember to brush before you head upstairs for bath and pajamas at night. This wasn't working either. So I went to BJ's and bought one of those multi packs of toothpaste and toothbrushes. I then equipped each bathroom with it's very own toothbrush. Now we have have 3 easy to access locations for teeth cleaning. This has led to some very clean teeth in our house. This worked so well I even bought the grandparents their own toothbrush for her to keep at their house so I don't have to pack any when she spends the night. We haven't had a battle over her teeth in months and so this works for me.

Punctuation

2007-09-18T09:50:00.000-04:00

Each night Sweetpea and I sit down to read a chapter or two of a book before bedtime (I am so happy to have moved up to the chapter ones). Sweetpea goes and gets the appropriate book and meets me in the "cat room" on the futon to read it. Last night I was putting a load of wash in the washer and she was in the room with the book first. She was looking through the pages when she told me she knew what "these mean". I was only half listening and I just said You do?. She then proceeded to explain what the punctuation marks mean. She described them all. The comma means you pause, the dot means you are at the end of sentence and you stop, the hook one means you are asking a question, and she forgot what the upside down i means. I was in awe because I just didn't expect it yet. See everything you need to know you really do learn in Kindergarten.

12/20/2002 - 09/17/2007

2007-09-17T23:09:00.000-04:00

Today Sweet pea lost her first tooth. She has been waiting for weeks for this tooth to fall out and it happened today at school. Yesterday the tooth was very loose and I tried giving it a few tugs to see if it would come out but no luck. Today I went to pick Sweet pea up at school and she came bouncing over to me with a big gaping smile on her face. The right lower front tooth was gone. She pulled it herself in class this morning. My girl decided it was bugging her too much so she twisted it out. Then she held on to it a few minutes until she decided to tell her teacher just because she didn't want to let go of it right away. Her teacher (Mrs.) was well prepared and gave her a small envelope with a laminated tooth on it where Mrs. recorded the date and time. This was her second tooth that came in when she was a baby at a mere 6 months old (12/20/2002) and the first to be replaced by her (sniffles from Mom) adult tooth. I know the other bottom tooth is not far behind, it is already wiggling at us. The tooth fairy will of course be making a visit tonight and I know Sweet pea is super excited about that. She even told me to be quiet tonight so she could go to sleep, forget the typical routine Mom, I need to go to sleep so the tooth fairy can come.

Apple slices to go

2007-09-12T11:15:00.000-04:00

With school here and having to pack snacks I have been using an age old trick to preserve those apple slices. Of course we all know that apples brown due to oxidation of the sugar but once they look gross like that, I can't eat them. I know they sell those handy dandy pre-sliced citric acid preserved apples in the store but I think they taste funny so I prefer fresh "made" ones from home. To do this I pull out my quick corer/slicer from pampered chef, slice the apple of my choice, toss it in a Ziploc bag, add a few drops of lemon juice, shake it around, and ta-da no more brown apples. You can't even taste the lemon (unless you use too much - then you get a lemony kick). These only take a few seconds to make. In addition I think it is easier to buy and store fresh apples (especially with apple picking season starting soon). Here's to getting your apple a day!

Waking up in a strange place

2007-09-12T10:40:00.000-04:00

In the morning I leave for work before the sun even thinks of rising. This morning I walked into the hall and saw that Sweetpea's bedroom door was opened. Since we typically close them to sleep I walked over to close it and also to check if she is covered since she apparently practices her Karate kicks in her sleep. I walk in to find her missing from her room. OK, first place I check, the bathroom. Nope no girl in there. Next room over is what we call the Cat room since that is where he likes to sleep. We have recently purchased a futon because it is also Sweet Pea's TV/upstairs playroom and there she is, sound asleep, no covers or anything. I grab a cover off her bed and wake DH up to tell him where she is so he can miss the early morning treasure hunt.

When DH went to wake her up for school, Sweetpea gave him a very hard time about who moved her there and why. He kept telling her that she moved herself there and she refused to believe him. This also seems to be a phase she is going through. She has decided that only what she thinks can be true and everyone else is lying to her. This in itself can get very frustrating and make you want to shake some sense into her (which if it would work might be worth it but since I have never heard of this working I guess we just keep arguing). Well they argued back and forth for quite awhile until Sweetpea decided that a swift kick to DH was the way to end the dilemma. This of course earned her a good morning time out and lecture followed by a helping of tears. She then composed herself and off to school she went only complaining that it is cold outside now. I suppose tonight we will talk about changing sleeping locations mid-slumber and about arguing in genearl (again). I don't mind that she went in there though but it makes me wonder if I need to put a gate at the top of the stairs again (we took it away when she was 2) to prevent any midnight tumbles.

School is a lot of work!

2007-09-11T00:09:00.000-04:00

With Sweetpea starting Kindergarten I have realized just how much work parents have to do to ensure their children are prepared for school. My day goes like this...
5am - wake up, get dressed, pack my own breakfast and lunch, go to work.
~3:30pm - leave work- go pick up Sweetpea at aftercare and get the daily lecture on how I don't pick her up soon enough.
~4:30 - arrive home and send her out to play while preparing dinner (if it's not a dance class or soccer night). Go through book bag for notes, check her conduct calendar for the day (and she better have a star - I expect perfection), and fill out any necessary forms, fundraisers, etc.
~8:30 - Sweetpea needs to be in bed and I should be leaving the room. This is after getting her inside to eat, chasing her and her friends around the house and moderating any disputes, and bathing her so she isn't the smelly kid in school. Bedtime involves reading books, listening to songs, braiding her hair and tucking her in with kisses and hugs.
~8:45 pm - DH comes home from work, we chat about his day, how Sweetpea was, my day, typical stuff.
~9:00 pm - bedtime (hopefully by 10 which never happens) - pack snack and lunch for Sweetpea, write notes to teacher about if she is buying or packing, write a note for when I will arrive to pick her up, add an envelope with extra money for a treat or drink at lunch. Arrange clothes (after making sure we have clean ones - do wash if necessary) for DH to dress her in morning, arrange all required bags on counter so nothing is forgotten and add notes for DH if anything special is required (i.e - lunch box is in refrig).

After all of the above is done I try to take 15 minutes for myself before heading off to bed. I suppose I will become more efficient at this whole process as the weeks pass but in the meantime I often wish for the simplicity of daycare where they did everything and all she had to be was dressed.

Just kidding ..

2007-09-11T00:00:00.000-04:00

These words are the bane of my existence lately. Sweetpea has discovered the joy in kidding people. This means that she says things like "Ouch, I bit my tongue", I of course sympathize with her, and then she laughs and says, Haha, I was kidding. I have told her the story of the boy who cried wolf numerous times now but it isn't the same for her. First of all, she knows it's just a story, secondly she says she isn't asking for help or saying a wolf is coming so it just isn't the same. Meanwhile, I am continually tricked into believing she needs something, hurt something, did something, only to be told she's kidding. In frustration I have tried to explain that she is driving me crazy and that I don't like the lying involved in that kind of kidding. I understand it is just a phase she is going through but it has lasted at least 3 weeks now and mom is very tired of the game.

How do you drive?

2007-09-10T23:48:00.001-04:00

Conversation between myself and Sweetpea which occured when I was attempting to explain why I couldn't pick her up early from school aftercare.

Mom - "I have to go get a new picture taken for my driver's license since it expires on my birthday. If I don't get it renewed then I won't be allowed to drive anymore, then what we would do?"

Sweetpea - "Can I see your license"

Mom - "Sure" - as I dig around in the disaster area of my purse to find my wallet and then pull it out. All very tricky considering I was driving at the same time.

Sweetpea - "Aww, Mom, I like this picture you can't get a new one."

Mom - " I like it too but they don't let me pick which picture I get. If the policeman tells me I have to get a new one then I have to listen to the rules."

Sweetpea "Hey Mom, how are you driving now?"

Mom -" What do you mean?"

Sweetpea - "Well if I have your license, how can you drive now? Don't you need your license to drive?"

After that I explained that driving is like riding a bike, once you learn you don't forget how to do it. The license just tells the policeman that you know all of the rules and it identifies who you are.

I love these little odd conversations we have which I cherish saving just for her.

Another moment of over reaction

2007-09-06T16:53:00.000-04:00

There have been several trips that we've taken to the emergency room since Sweetpea was born. One was absolutely necessary, one was pretty necessary, and the third was a waste of time. Well the other day I had another case of over-reacting (just a bit). I came home from work and the next door neighbor girl came running over to tell me that Sweetpea hurt her hand. I asked where she was and she said in our house. I thought, OK no big deal I'm sure DH is handling it. I proceed to walk in the house to find DH playing the Wii while Sweetpea is sitting on the sofa crying and holding her hand. I go over to survey the damage (expecting a tiny scratch - she can be a bit dramatic at times) and I see a hand that is rapidly swelling, turning lovely colors, and she's holding it oddly to the side and refuses to move it (OK that was probably due to being a drama queen). With my typical ugh tone, I say to my DH (who has 8+ years of medical experience now) - "Did you even look at this?". He looks at it and doesn't think anything is really wrong, but since I am insisting it get looked at, he agrees to take her to the ER. This time I thought ahead and called our pediatrician first. They agreed to see her immediately. We arrive within 10 minutes and they have the classic doctor's office toy - the bead maze/activity cube - what kid can resist? Off Sweetpea runs throwing the ice bag at me mid-gallop and of course the first thing she does is take the injured hand and begin spinning beads up those lovely wires. Yeah - OK -like we need to be here- she was obviously fine. Another embarrassing trip for Mom. We eventually saw the doctor who assured us that while going down the sliding board with a rope wrapped around your hand is never a good idea, it is very hard to break anything that way. I want to say I have two things in my defense. First, it was getting very black and blue in a short amount of time. Secondly(and most important), the very next day was her first day of Kindergarten. Imagine if it was broken and I sent her in without treatment. I would be remembered as a neglectful parent for the next 8 years. We would have to move or change schools or something. So now I've learned to wait at least 30 minutes before reacting as long as no blood or guts are hanging out. We'll see if I can follow that advice the next time since there's always a next time.

Field Trip w/Dad

2007-08-28T19:06:00.000-04:00

Sweetpea and Dad were home together today since she starts Kindergarten tomorrow. Dad had to run into work to drop off some paperwork and she went in with him. The one nurse decided to gown her up and take her in to see where Dad works (the OR). So here is a picture of my future surgeon in training..... I love the necklace sticking out. Imagine the patients seeing her walk around the OR suite. Boy is that a short doctor.

Gender Lines

2007-08-28T06:39:00.000-04:00

Conversation between Sweetpea and DH while DH is playing Mario Party on the Wii...

Sweetpea "Dad, which one are you?"
DH - "I am the girl in the orange dress"
Sweetpea (in utter disbelief) - "You are the girl ?!"
DH - "Yeah, I let the computer pick for me, it doesn't matter to me."
Sweetpea - " Well that offends me, boys can't be girls."
DH - " Why not?"
Sweetpea - "Just because boys have to be boys and girls have to be girls."
(This from the girl who likes to walk around saying "Girls rule and boys drool.") I guess in her mind you better not try to be anything else, even in video games, boys just aren't allowed to be pretty.

What to be when I grow up..

2007-08-26T22:17:00.000-04:00

What I want to be when I grow up is a question that is posed to you from the moment you are old enough to talk. I think this question is a good reflection of what you are seeing and enjoying in your world at the moment. Sweetpea has gone through numerous ideas of what she wants to be when she grows up. When she was 2 and you asked her what she wanted to be she would always say a mommy since that was all she really knew. As she has grown and been exposed to more of the world she has changed "jobs" numerous times. For awhile she wanted to be a doctor so she could take care of people. I always thought she would want to be a teacher but anytime I would ask her that she would always say " NO, not a teacher". Maybe being in daycare and seeing what teachers have to handle everyday made her realize that as much as she loves her teachers that she doesn't want to do that. Now she no longer wants to be a mommy since she doesn't want to get a baby in her belly - she thinks that would hurt too much for the baby to come out since the only way she knows for that baby to come out is for the doctor to cut it out (I had a C-section). The latest job she decided upon was to be a writer. We started reading chapter books with very few pictures and she enjoys them very much. At the back of the book they have picture of the author and she thought that would be a great job. This lasted a few months but now with sports starting she wants to try and be a cheerleader when she grows up. I keep telling her that it is something she can do in school but she doesn't quite get time spans yet. So in the meantime she is practicing jumping on the trampoline (since cheerleaders do a lot of jumping) and doing sit-ups to make her belly skinny. I love watching her change ... and keeping track of those changes, after all at her age I wanted to be a waitress when I grew up.

Last Day of Daycare

2007-08-24T20:44:00.000-04:00

Today was it, the last day that Sweetpea went to her daycare. She starts school on Wednesday but she is spending Monday and Tuesday home with dad. She was very excited about it. We didn't really think about the emotional side of her last day at all. Then DH called me at work after he dropped her off and said that he is quote "..such a pussy" (please excuse the language). He said he got in there and stopped to see the teacher that has adopted Sweetpea as her own since she was an infant and then he began to cry. Then he took her to her room and talked to her current teachers and they asked him if he was crying. So he spent awhile there taking her around to her favorite teachers to say goodbye. DH said that it is funny just because 5 years ago when he dropped her off for the first time he didn't cry then but he cries today. I can't say much because I'm sure I will be a wreck on Wednesday. I picked her up and she gave her "new" boyfriend several hugs and off we went, no tears on her part. I got a little chocked up though when I read the card her one teacher gave her. It is something I will definately save for her to see when she gets big. Now the countdown begins....a few more days to go and my baby will be in kindergarten.

My Sesame Street Persona

2007-08-24T07:45:00.000-04:00

I am Count von Count.

Here is why are you The Count.
You are both very organized. You almost always know where your belongings are and you prefer things neat. You may even enjoy cleaning and find it therapeutic. The Count is obsessive compulsive and needs to always count what he has. You would never find The Count missing a bat.

You both are concrete thinkers. The Count is very mathminded and wants to know what he has and where it is. His purpose in life is clear. You probably also know what you want in life, and you have a real plan toward achieving it. You aren't likely to throw everything away to take a risky chance.

You are both somewhat introverted. The Count is quite obsessed with himself and the things that belong to him. At the same time he has had 2 girlfriends and he has guests in his castle. Like The Count, you probably like to have some time to yourself, but you do appreciate spending time with your friends, and you aren't scared of social situations.

Check it out at http://www.okcupid.com/tests/4525550649363613939/Your-SESAME-STREET-Persona

WFMW

2007-08-22T12:11:00.001-04:00

Ok -I've also enjoyed the editions of Works for me Wednesday over at T with Honey so I decided to get in on the fun. Now I've always had this issue with sponges, the kind you use at the kitchen sink. We all know that they get immediately full of bacteria and all sorts of unpleasant things but they are still handy to have around and saves numerous rolls of papertowels. What I have done in the past is buy the ones that supposedly deter microbial growth but to no avail they always end up smelling awful within a week or two of use. I have also tried dumping bleach on them but I finally found what works for me with no effort on my part. In order to keep your sponge smelling fresh and clean just put it in the dishwasher on a weekly basis along with your normal dishes (top rack only please). The dishwasher maintains a high temperature and then dries it too. Your sponge comes out looking and smelling brand new. I have found this very effective and I don't go through sponges as quickly since I was always throwing them away just because I felt they were too disgusting to use. Ahh you say you don't have a dishwasher(or you like to do dishes by hand)....well if you have a microwave this will work too. Every few days wet the sponge, put it in the microwave, and zap it on high for 1-2 minutes. This gives you a very hot and germ-free sponge (which can then be used to clean the inside of the microwave or stove top). Add a few drops of dishsoap in your favorite scent and your microwave will smell good too. You don't get the pretty new all clean and dry sponge effect that the dishwasher gives but anything is better then the nasty smelling germ ridden sponge that you were using before to "clean" up with.

Now I will desparately try to think of something else for next Wednesday...hmmm maybe I shouldn't have started this.

Where has the world gone....

2007-08-20T07:58:00.000-04:00

This weekend was my nephew's birthday and he requested that we all go to Hershey Park. So on Saturday the family met at Hershey. Now since it was a beautiful day the park was filled to overflowing and the lines were long but it is what it is. We knew going in (just by looking at the filled to capacity parking lot) that it was going to be a long day but it is a good chance to hang out with family and spend some nice time together. We had an overall enjoyable day and Sweetpea did a very good job of walking and standing in line (we told her since she is 5 now she can no longer have a stroller). One thing really annoyed me though, and that is other people who have no compassion for anyone else. We were standing in line for the Comet at about 10 pm (so everyone was tired) and they have soda machines in the line. A man about 6 people in front of us stopped to get a drink from the machine. Invariably as he is fighting with the dollar bill the line in front of him moved up a few feet. Now we were still very far away from the actual ride and had at least another 30 minutes of waiting to go so if we didn't move right away we weren't going to miss anything. So this poor man is standing there trying to get a drink and the people behind us start complaining that he isn't moving up (when if you just look you can see what he is doing). They are going on about how "this is ridiculous, why can't he move up, he doesn't really need a drink, etc." Then the woman suggests they cut the line and duck under the pole to get in front of the man and of course all of us behind him. OK that is where the final straw comes in. I am not good at keeping my opinions to myself so I answered her. I told her that cutting the line is not appropriate and that she should be considerate of others and let the man get his drink. In addition, where did she think she was going to get anyway by jumping 6 feet ahead in the line? I didn't get a response (except for the dropped jaw) but they didn't cut the line either. I really just want to know what part of our lives (and society) have changed where we no longer care about anyone around us and their needs and all we want is to rush rush rush. Is there any harm in caring for strangers? I know I want Sweetpea to be considerate of others and I try to teach her that. I also know that there are times I am the one rushing through life and being inconsiderate of others but at least I try. So perhaps I was rude by saying something but ughghh people just annoy me sometimes. OK, done ranting for now...

Opposite shifts

2007-08-17T06:53:00.001-04:00

With Sweetpea making her way to kindergarten soon, dear husband and I have changed our shifts at work so that we can better fit her schedule. This means that I start at 6 am and work until 3 -3:30pm while DH starts at 11:30am until 8:00 pm. This allows DH to drop Sweetpea off at school at 8:00 and I can then pick her up at the afterschool program about an hour after she is done (I work about 45 minutes from home so with the commute I can't get there at 2:55 when she is dismissed). Well we decided to start this 3 weeks prior to the start of school so we could get in the swing of things before adjusting to a new school and new friends. I have to say that Sweetpea thinks it is awesome. Now she gets to sleep in (which of course also means she gets to stay up past her 8:30 bedtime) and she gets alone time with dad and mom. In addition she feels special because she only goes to daycare for lunch and playtime until I pick her up. The nice thing about this too is that I have a more relaxed schedule since I don't need to make dinner for dad anymore. Dad is a super fussy eater (in other words he doesn't like any variety) which makes mealtime boring and stressful since I am the only cook in the family. With just me and Sweetpea I can make whatever I want. Now that she is 5, she has decided she will try to eat anything I give her even if it looks odd or yucky without complaining. In addition, I can just make some grilled chicken and a bowl of vegetables and she is very happy with that. We can now eat chicken everyday or whatever I feel like making without getting an ugh face made at me. So we are just completing our second week and I have to say I love it. One more week until school starts!

What's cooking?

2007-08-11T16:59:00.001-04:00

Sweetpea never stops talking, and I mean never so we have a lot of conversations. In the car we had this conversation which I thought was very funny and very insightful.

Sweetpea - "Mom, Can you teach me how to cook?"
Me - "Sure honey, what would like to cook first?"
Sweetpea (being silly now) - "Can I cook you?"
Me - " Nope, I don't know how to cook me."
Sweetpea "Ok, do you know how to cook me?"
Me- "Yup but you've already been cooked, I'm not cooking you again"
Sweetpea (laughing) - "Oh you mean you cooked me in your belly right?"

I just think it is too funny that she knew what I meant by that. I asked her how she knew that and she said well you wouldn't actually burn me for real so that's the only time I can think that you cooked me. I guess they call it a bun in the oven for a reason.

Win a TV

2007-08-08T18:44:00.000-04:00

Check out http://www.5minutesformom.com/2032/insignia-37inch-flat-panel-lcd-hdtv-contest/#comment-364888 . They are giving away a TV from Best Buy. Good Luck

Boys.....

2007-08-08T06:52:00.001-04:00

Sweetpea has been going to the same daycare since she was 10 weeks old. She has made many friendships that she is very sad to leave behind. One in particular is her "boyfriend". This boy has been attached to her since she started there at the age of 10 weeks. He is about 6 months older then her but since she was a baby he would hold her hand and has always been generally obsessed with her. They have grown up together (and since he is older he sometimes jumps to the next room before her) and it's so funny to watch them interact. They love each other even though they fight like cats and dogs on some days. Now along comes a new boy. This boy is a recent addition to their classroom and Sweetpea thinks he is particularly cute. As we are walking out of daycare yesterday I hear a boy yell "Hey, that's Angel's girlfriend". So I ask Sweetpea (who is now bright red) what that is all about. She says she likes him and everyone calls her that even though she's not. So I ask, "Is he cuter then Nicholas" (the longtime boyfriend)? She says "Oh yes". I ask "What does Nicholas think of that?". Sweetpea says with a smile "Oh he's mad, they got in fight the other day over me and I just told them they should play together so I can be with both of them". Oh young love....I can only imagine the fun to come.

The definition of fair....

2007-08-07T20:27:00.000-04:00

"It's not Fair" seem to be commonly used words around my house. I say Sweetpea can't do something, it's not fair. She fell off the balance beam at gymnastics and according to her "It wasn't fair because all the other kids can do it and she can't" (even though I saw numerous other kids fall too). Daddy and I get to sleep together in the same bed but she has to sleep all alone - NOT FAIR. (You try sleeping with her, she spins like a tornado in her sleep! I slept with her the entire week at Disney and I think I slept about 4 hours total each night) The latest it's not fair is over a tattoo. Dad got a tattoo on his arm last week. I want to get one as soon as I decide where exactly I want it, but according to Sweetpea I can't get one until she turns 18 so she can get one at the same time. Funny how everything isn't fair for her but who cares if it's fair to mom. Gotta love the perspective of a child.

Pierced Ears

2007-08-04T17:40:00.001-04:00

The big day arrived on Saturday July 28th. Sweetpea had announced to me 2 days before that she was READY. Ready to get her ears pierced. I always told her that when she was a big girl and ready to get her ears pierced I would take her. Getting my ears pierced is one of my favorite childhood memories. I was 8 years old and my aunt took me to the mall - the Piercing Pagoda - and I got them done. It hurt -a lot and I never lied to Sweetpea about that so she was prepared. I'm not a big fan of getting ears pierced when one is a baby. Sure the pain is the same no matter when you get it done but there is something about making the choice to do it. I see it as a rite of passage for a child and I didn't want her to miss out on it. So Saturday came and the first thing she says when she wakes up is "Don't forget mom, we're going to get my ears pierced today". So off we go. I took her to an actual body piercing place versus the mall since I figured they are a bit more experienced in this then the 16 year old girl working 10 hours a week at Claire's. When we got there Kris - the piercer - was a bit apprehensive about doing her since she is only 5 so she took her back and showed her all of the stuff, the needle, the clamp, the chair, etc. Sweetpea looked right at her and said "Let's do this" and climbs right up in the chair. So here we go. The one thing about a real piercer versus the mall is the needle. At the mall they use the gun that shoots the earring in your ear while here they use a hollow core needle to cut a hole in your ear. Kris put the clamp on her ear, put the piece of cork behind the ear, told her to close her eyes and blow out on the count of three. Sweetpea did it and the needle sliced through her ear like a hot knife through butter. Wow was that sharp. I'm not a squeamish person but when it is your child it is harder to watch. The reaction...she cried, just a bit and said it hurt. She was so good though. At that moment Dad showed up, he was driving by and saw us there, so she was happy about that. Now came the hardest part, the second one. Sweetpea tried her hardest to stay still but now she knew just how much it would hurt. This time I had to steady her head since she was shaking but she still did exactly as told. It only took a second and the other one was done too. Now she was so happy. The tears were still going down her cheeks but there was a smile as well. I was, and still am, so proud of her. She spent the next three days saying how glad she was that she got earrings and we of course had to drive around and show everyone we know. So there marks one milestone in her life. A few years earlier then expected and harder on me then her.

Getting ready for Kindergarten

2007-08-04T17:21:00.000-04:00

Well the time has come for Sweetpea to make her way to Kindergarten. She is so excited that she asks every day if kindergarten starts tomorrow. I should create a countdown calendar for her keep track of it herself - it makes it easier on me and yet then I have to remember to have her cross it off everyday. That just adds to the numerous bedtime activities that must take place before I can finally get to do the thousand other things waiting for me. So back to Kindergarten.... she starts school on Wednesday August 29th at Immaculate Conception. We decided to send her to Catholic school for numerous reasons. First hubby and I both went to catholic school. Second there is the post 9/11 baby boom..do I really want her to graduate with a class of 600 other kids? Third, there is the neighbor girl. We love our neighbors dearly here in the circle, and we are always out and chatting with one or the other of them but Sweetpea's best friend is the same age she is. While it may seem ideal to have them do everything together as they grow up like twin sisters, in reality they aren't and our parenting styles are completely opposite. So in order to avoid the future competition over clothes (like those stupid Heelys I refuse to buy) we took the easy way out and said "Catholic school it is.". So on Friday we went and bought her uniforms. Well $428 later we have most of what she needs. Let me tell all of you, nothing has really changed in the uniform department. The sweaters still have arms meant for an ape that need to be rolled up and the jumpers are as stiff as a board. The one thing that did change is the gym shorts. Thank goodness the shorts are now the mesh kind and not those awful short shorts that we had to endure. So now that we have the clothes she is even more excited. Her teacher sent her a name tag to wear the first 2 weeks and she hasn't taken it off since it arrived. I hope that it lasts 3 more weeks, I think I may be hiding it soon.

The Beginning.....

2007-08-04T17:10:00.000-04:00

Ahhhh, blogging. Well I've always thought that blogging would be a fun way to keep track of those daily adventures that easily slip from our memory, but finding the time and the space to do this was never on top of my "to do" list. So then a friend tells me that she and some others I know are blogging here and I think "Hey that's a good idea, I should at least try." so here I am. Again time will always be an issue so I apologize now for any large gaps in time that may occur. What I hope to gain from this is something that my sweetpea can read and laugh at as she grows and so she will always know just how much I love her and how special she is even though she often refers to me as the big meanie. So here we go....