Remember a couple of weeks ago when I wrote about Loss? Remember how I said I pray it never happens to any of you? Well, it has. Jessica over at Go Blog Yourself lost her darling daughter, Tuesday, yesterday. My heart is absolutely broken for this family.
I can't get them off my mind. I remember all too well the immediate time after Emma's death. No parent should EVER have to bury their child. EVER. It is not fair. Like I said, I am heart broken for them. Go read this great post by Lisa for this family. I'm not the only one who is heart broken.
My dear friend, Heather -- The Extraordinary Ordinary -- is doing something amazing. For every comment on this post, she and her family will donate $1 to Tuesday's family. Let me tell you something, that is amazing. It is expensive to bury a child, plus they have medical bills also. So, go leave a comment. Or, you can donate to this family here or here.
We have come together in the past to help other families. We will do it again. That is what is so amazing about the Blog Family. Yeah, it's not a community, we are a family.
Please pray for this amazing family. Pray for Tuesday's brothers and twin sister. Pray for her parents. Pray for comfort, peace and that angels will bear them up during this time.
Hug your kids a lot tighter today. Be kinder and gentler and more loving today. Know that there are parents today who would give anything to have one more minute with their baby girl.
Mostly though, pray.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Winner!
Random Integer Generator
Here are your random numbers:
5
Timestamp: 2009-01-31 15:02:18 UTC
Congratulations to
Email me with your information and I will forward it to Good For the Kids!
Thank you everyone who entered and visited my blog. I hope you will come back again soon.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Playing
Today was a day of playing. The sun came out and shone in full force. It warmed up to mid-30's (downright balmy in my neck of the woods) and we played with good friends. The kids played so well together today, Libby took a good nap and I was able to play with my new camera. Here are a couple shots I took of Miss Amelia today. It seems as though I wasn't the only one missing the sun. The kids played in the sunshine for a good 2 hours today. It was so nice.
I'll be back in the morning to choose a winner from Mondays giveaway! So, if you haven't entered yet, DO IT!
Thank you for all of your warm wishes and thoughts. They meant the world to me.
Mid-Winter Blahs.
I've got them, do you? It's that time of year again. Holiday celebrations are well over and it is cold, gray and just down right yucky outside. Sure, I've got my birthday to look forward to (February 11, mark your calendars!) and Jeremy's birthday and Valentines Day...oh wait, we don't celebrate Valentine's Day dangit. So, just two fun things next month.
What?? The Mom 2.0 Summit that I won a registration for? Yeah, I'm not going. I know, I know, you're sad for me. I'm sad for me too. Funny story. Ok, not really funny, but here it is anyway. I was so excited, scheming a way to get to Houston to be warm and learn from some amazing women. I was getting ready to leave this ice box for a whole weekend, just me and the babe. Then, The Mr. says, "When is this conference again?" I told him February 18-21. Turns out he has to go out of town that Thursday and Friday for work. And since I have no one here to watch the older two hooligans, guess who is staying home? Yep, that's me. I'm still pretty dang heart broken about that one. I am sure that when he is gone, the children and I will be eating pizza and ice cream and brownies just to soothe my troubled heart (and to try to forget about all the partying going on that I am missing out on). Oh, but the nice part in all of this? The AWSESOME coordinators of this great conference felt so bad that they offered me registration for next year's conference. I am SO going. And, I am trying to convince my Mom to come with me. She can play with Libby and I can go learn TONS. We'll see what next year brings though.
So, where does all of this leave me? With the mid-winter blahs. I haven't had much writing mojo and that's not a good thing. I really enjoy writing. It is a great outlet for me, always has been. It allows me to express myself and to feel like someone is listening to me (even if they never are. I swear my voice must sound like the wind the way my kids listen!). It is my escape. So, you can understand why not having the desire to write is bothering me.
Oh, and I suffer from depression. Specifically Seasonal Affective Disorder. Yeah, so when there is an inversion and the weather is cold and cloudy and I don't see the sun for weeks..that is really not a good thing. In fact, it is a really bad thing. Every January it hits me like a ton of bricks. I haven't left the house for non-essentials in days. And by that I mean, just to take Libby to the Doctor, to get our new camera today (total essential, ours was dying a very quick death), and to go to Best Buy tonight to get a new memory card for the camera. Now, I didn't want to do the last one. I had to though because JD (what I like to call the man) ordered it online and put my name down to go pick it up. Now, in all fairness to him, he did ask me if I wanted to go pick it up today and I said yes thinking I would. Blah, I just never know when I will want to go somewhere, or just hole up in my house with my kids. So, even though I didn't want to leave, I did anyway. It was nice to be out of the house by myself...but I was really happy to come home, throw on my jammies and nurse Libby to sleep.
Where was I? Oh yes, depression. I get distracted very easily, even more so when I am in the midst of the darkness. My house is a mess, I haven't had sugar for 4 weeks, I am not losing weight like I would like to despite my best efforts, and I am just feeling like crap.
So...if my blog posts are less than stellar these days, you will forgive me yes? While I know I don't have to write everyday, I need to. I need to do something to help combat the sinking feeling I have inside. I am not reading many blogs right now -- all part of the depression -- so if there is something really important going on, email me ok? Things I used to love, not so much right now. So, while I may not be reading a ton of blogs, I'll be back in full force soon. As soon as the sun starts to shine and the Earth begins to warm.
Until then, I will keep on keepin' on, and you may just get a bunch of pictures of my cute kids from my new AWESOME camera.
Later peeps.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
When the Boys Are Away
She is pretty sure this is what her Dora Underwear are for. Aren't they?
Sweet little Pumpkin HeadAt around 2:00, Amelia came to me with her church shoes and said she wanted to put them on. I asked her why? and she said "for our GIRLS NIGHT!". Oh yeah, she's my girl all right!
We got the boys ready and on their way at around 4, and then we got ready. We went and got a gourmet vegetarian pizza from Papa Murphy's (our favorite!), then came home and made it. While we were waiting for the pizza to cook, we read books and talked about what we wanted to do. We had pizza, apples and carrot sticks, then Amelia had a nice long bubble bath. After her bath, I painted her toes and then we had chocolate banana shakes.
We finished off the night with me nursing Libby and Amelia and I watching American Idol.
They are both in bed now and I am just relishing the time I had with them. Amelia has never had me alone really. She always has to share me, so it was nice to have some one on one time with her tonight when Libby was sleeping. I love that girl.
She was so fascinated with those red toes and was just sure that I should have painted her legs too.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Ahh...that's better.
Thanks to those of you that expressed concern yesterday. My miserable little girl is not as miserable today. Turns out she has a double ear infection. Her left ear isn't too bad, but the right one was bulging. My poor baby. We ALL slept better last night and I actually don't feel like I'm walking in a fog today.
My little man is going snowboarding with Daddy today. He is so big and SO excited! Our church congregation is teaming up with 2 others and they are having a skiing and snowboarding night! Amelia is excited because it means she and Mama and Libby will have a "girls night". We'll go to Pita Pit and then to the Mall to let her play in the play area.
It will be a fun night for everyone. I just wish I could go to watch Seth snowboard. It is going to be awesome.
And thanks to Sue for adding something new to our Star Wars obsession!
We're Running Out of Time!
Taken, with permission, from Chichiboulie. Bloggers Unite!
As parents and concerned citizens I’m sure most of us at one time or another have been confronted with the question of lead poisoning. But have you asked yourself what your government is doing to protect your children from lead contained in toys? The answer? They're banning toys, taking books from schools and libraries, hurting low income families, killing entrepreneurial spirit and risking putting the economy in an even greater depression than we've seen in decades. I'd like to introduce you to their solution: the CPSIA.
Do you know about the CPSIA? No? Then I ask you to take a few minutes to find out about it.
The CPSIA stands for Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, a new set of laws that will come into effect on 10 February, 2009 and will impact many, many people in a negative way. Make no mistake, this is very real. View it for yourself. If Forbes, the American Library Association and numerous other media are paying attention, perhaps you should too.
How will these new laws affect you? Well, here are a few examples:
To the Parents of Young Students:
Due to the new law, expect to see the cost of school supplies sky rocket. While those paper clips weren't originally intended for your student to use, they will need to be tested now that your 11-year-old needs them for his school project. This law applies to any and all school supplies (textbooks, pencils, crayons, paper, etc.) being used by children under 12.
To the Avid Reader:
Due to the new law, all children's books will be pulled from library and school shelves, as there is no exemption for them. That’s okay though, there's always television. Our children don’t need to learn the love of reading after all.
Article from the American Library Association http://www.wo.ala.org/districtdispatch/?p=1322
To the Lover of All Things Handmade:
Due to the new law, you will now be given a cotton ball and an instruction manual so you can make it yourself since that blanket you originally had your eye on for $50 will now cost you around $1,000 after it's passed testing. It won't even be the one-of-a-kind blanket you were hoping for. Items are destroyed in the testing process making one-of-a-kind items virtually impossible. So that gorgeous hand-knit hat you bought your child this past winter won’t be available next winter.
To the Environmentalist:
Due to the new law, all items in non-compliance will now be dumped into our already overflowing landfills. Imagine not just products from the small business owners, but the Big Box Stores as well. You can't sell it so you must toss it. Or be potentially sued for selling it. You can't even give them away. If you are caught, it is still a violation.
To the Second-Hand Shopper:
Due to the new law, you will now need to spend $20 for that brand new pair of jeans for your 2-year old, rather than shop at the Goodwill for second hand. Many resale shops are eliminating children's items all together to avoid future lawsuits.
To the Entrepreneur:
Due to this new law, you will be forced to adhere to strict testing of your unique products or discontinue to make and/or sell them. Small businesses will be likely to be unable to afford the cost of testing and be forced to close up shop. Due to the current economic state, you'll have to hope for the best when it comes to finding a new job in Corporate America.
To the Antique Toy Collector:
Due to the new law, you'd better start buying now because it's all going to private collection and will no longer be available to purchase. “Because the new rules apply retroactively, toys and clothes already on the shelf will have to be thrown out if they aren't certified as safe.” http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123189645948879745.html
To the American Economy:
Already struggling under an economy that hasn’t been this weak in decades, the American economy will be hit harder with the inevitable loss of jobs and revenues from suppliers, small businesses and consumers. The required testing is far too costly and restrictive for small businesses or individuals to undertake.
To the Worldwide Economy:
Due to this new law, many foreign manufacturers have already pulled out of the US market. You can imagine the impact of this on their businesses.
If you think this is exaggerating, here is a recent article from Forbes
http://www.forbes.com/2009/01/16/cpsia-safety-toys-oped-cx_wo_0116olson.html
And for those of you prepared to be stupefied and boggled, The New Law
http://www.cpsc.gov/about/cpsia/cpsia.html
Did you know? If this upsets or alarms you, please react.
As parents and concerned citizens I’m sure most of us at one time or another have been confronted with the question of lead poisoning. But have you asked yourself what your government is doing to protect your children from lead contained in toys? The answer? They're banning toys, taking books from schools and libraries, hurting low income families, killing entrepreneurial spirit and risking putting the economy in an even greater depression than we've seen in decades. I'd like to introduce you to their solution: the CPSIA.
Do you know about the CPSIA? No? Then I ask you to take a few minutes to find out about it.
The CPSIA stands for Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, a new set of laws that will come into effect on 10 February, 2009 and will impact many, many people in a negative way. Make no mistake, this is very real. View it for yourself. If Forbes, the American Library Association and numerous other media are paying attention, perhaps you should too.
How will these new laws affect you? Well, here are a few examples:
To the Parents of Young Students:
Due to the new law, expect to see the cost of school supplies sky rocket. While those paper clips weren't originally intended for your student to use, they will need to be tested now that your 11-year-old needs them for his school project. This law applies to any and all school supplies (textbooks, pencils, crayons, paper, etc.) being used by children under 12.
To the Avid Reader:
Due to the new law, all children's books will be pulled from library and school shelves, as there is no exemption for them. That’s okay though, there's always television. Our children don’t need to learn the love of reading after all.
Article from the American Library Association http://www.wo.ala.org/districtdispatch/?p=1322
To the Lover of All Things Handmade:
Due to the new law, you will now be given a cotton ball and an instruction manual so you can make it yourself since that blanket you originally had your eye on for $50 will now cost you around $1,000 after it's passed testing. It won't even be the one-of-a-kind blanket you were hoping for. Items are destroyed in the testing process making one-of-a-kind items virtually impossible. So that gorgeous hand-knit hat you bought your child this past winter won’t be available next winter.
To the Environmentalist:
Due to the new law, all items in non-compliance will now be dumped into our already overflowing landfills. Imagine not just products from the small business owners, but the Big Box Stores as well. You can't sell it so you must toss it. Or be potentially sued for selling it. You can't even give them away. If you are caught, it is still a violation.
To the Second-Hand Shopper:
Due to the new law, you will now need to spend $20 for that brand new pair of jeans for your 2-year old, rather than shop at the Goodwill for second hand. Many resale shops are eliminating children's items all together to avoid future lawsuits.
To the Entrepreneur:
Due to this new law, you will be forced to adhere to strict testing of your unique products or discontinue to make and/or sell them. Small businesses will be likely to be unable to afford the cost of testing and be forced to close up shop. Due to the current economic state, you'll have to hope for the best when it comes to finding a new job in Corporate America.
To the Antique Toy Collector:
Due to the new law, you'd better start buying now because it's all going to private collection and will no longer be available to purchase. “Because the new rules apply retroactively, toys and clothes already on the shelf will have to be thrown out if they aren't certified as safe.” http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123189645948879745.html
To the American Economy:
Already struggling under an economy that hasn’t been this weak in decades, the American economy will be hit harder with the inevitable loss of jobs and revenues from suppliers, small businesses and consumers. The required testing is far too costly and restrictive for small businesses or individuals to undertake.
To the Worldwide Economy:
Due to this new law, many foreign manufacturers have already pulled out of the US market. You can imagine the impact of this on their businesses.
If you think this is exaggerating, here is a recent article from Forbes
http://www.forbes.com/2009/01/16/cpsia-safety-toys-oped-cx_wo_0116olson.html
And for those of you prepared to be stupefied and boggled, The New Law
http://www.cpsc.gov/about/cpsia/cpsia.html
Did you know? If this upsets or alarms you, please react.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
She is Misery
and I am Company. (get it? Misery loves Company?). Ok, that's my lame attempt at being funny this morning. But, give me a break, I was up every hour last night with a sad, screaming baby. Libby is sick. I am sick. It's no fun at my house.
So, I leave you with a story from my archives. Taken from September 2006 (Amelia was just a wee babe and Seth was 2), this is a story about knitting -- something I love :)
I love to knit. Have I mentioned that before? I love that it challenges me. Not that mothering doesn't challenge me, but when I don't like how my knitting is going, I can fix it! I can either rip it out, or tink (knit spelled backwards). I get results pretty quickly - good results. It makes me feel better about myself. And - yarn only loves me. The wool loves me and never talks back, hits, screams, steps on Amelia's head, or cries incessently for me to hold it...wait, yest it does.
I am learning to knit socks. This is more difficult than I thought it would be. Socks are so common. everyone has them. They can't be THAT hard. But, for me, it is. I have already ripped out my socks 6 times in the last 48 hours. I will get it. When I do, I'll show you a picture of it!
Seth told me tonight that he wants to knit. Music to my ears! I can't wait to teach him. I need to learn how to finger knit so I can teach him that first. I think it will be easier for him. I just finished a sun hat for him. The only reason I made one for him is because he really wanted one. I made one for Amelia and it was too big. I gave it to my niece, Tess (she is 11 days older than Amelia, but has a bigger head). So, then I knit another one for Amelia. Seth really needed one, so he got one. I haven't blocked it yet, so it looks like a ruffle on the brim. My brother, Chip, said that he looks like a woman in it. It will be SO much cuter when I get it blocked.
I went on Friday night to see the Yarn Harlot. She was hilarious. It is nice to know I'm not alone in my obsession with knitting and yarn. Well, I knew I wasn't alone. I have my sweet sister Stephanie to thank for my obsession. It was fun. If you check back on her site, you'll see a picture of Amelia. There is an old adage that claims that if an expert knitter places knitting needles in a babys hands, the child will be clever at knitting. So, Stephanie Pearl-McPhee (the Yarn Harlot's real name) placed needles in Amelia's hands. We were laughing that A didn't want to let go of them! She has a great future!
Knitting is taking over my sugar addiction. Ok, kind of. It is filling that void by keeping my hands busy. I can't eat and knit at the same time. I've tried, it doesn't work too well. So, maybe this can be my new diet. The Knitting Diet. I can see it now...it will be the newest fad that sweeps the nation!
So, I leave you with a story from my archives. Taken from September 2006 (Amelia was just a wee babe and Seth was 2), this is a story about knitting -- something I love :)
I love to knit. Have I mentioned that before? I love that it challenges me. Not that mothering doesn't challenge me, but when I don't like how my knitting is going, I can fix it! I can either rip it out, or tink (knit spelled backwards). I get results pretty quickly - good results. It makes me feel better about myself. And - yarn only loves me. The wool loves me and never talks back, hits, screams, steps on Amelia's head, or cries incessently for me to hold it...wait, yest it does.
I am learning to knit socks. This is more difficult than I thought it would be. Socks are so common. everyone has them. They can't be THAT hard. But, for me, it is. I have already ripped out my socks 6 times in the last 48 hours. I will get it. When I do, I'll show you a picture of it!
Seth told me tonight that he wants to knit. Music to my ears! I can't wait to teach him. I need to learn how to finger knit so I can teach him that first. I think it will be easier for him. I just finished a sun hat for him. The only reason I made one for him is because he really wanted one. I made one for Amelia and it was too big. I gave it to my niece, Tess (she is 11 days older than Amelia, but has a bigger head). So, then I knit another one for Amelia. Seth really needed one, so he got one. I haven't blocked it yet, so it looks like a ruffle on the brim. My brother, Chip, said that he looks like a woman in it. It will be SO much cuter when I get it blocked.
I went on Friday night to see the Yarn Harlot. She was hilarious. It is nice to know I'm not alone in my obsession with knitting and yarn. Well, I knew I wasn't alone. I have my sweet sister Stephanie to thank for my obsession. It was fun. If you check back on her site, you'll see a picture of Amelia. There is an old adage that claims that if an expert knitter places knitting needles in a babys hands, the child will be clever at knitting. So, Stephanie Pearl-McPhee (the Yarn Harlot's real name) placed needles in Amelia's hands. We were laughing that A didn't want to let go of them! She has a great future!
Knitting is taking over my sugar addiction. Ok, kind of. It is filling that void by keeping my hands busy. I can't eat and knit at the same time. I've tried, it doesn't work too well. So, maybe this can be my new diet. The Knitting Diet. I can see it now...it will be the newest fad that sweeps the nation!
Monday, January 26, 2009
What's Your Sign?
Seth signing Apple, 14 months oldToday is the first of an "I don't know how many" part series on Signing with your Baby.
This is something that is very dear to my heart. I love signing with babies and watching the satisfaction that comes to both parents and child when they can all understand each other! It is truly amazing.
When I was in college, I had a lot of Deaf friends. Some of them had children who were hearing. I remember watching in awe as these little babies could sign to their parents to tell them what they wanted! It was fascinating to me. It was then that I decided when I had children I would sign with them. Fast forward about 2 or so years and Emma was here. I started signing with her at around 6 months and by 8 months she was signing "all done". It was great!
When Seth was born, I had been doing more research into the benefits of signing with babies and was determined to start earlier with him. I started when he was 5 months old and within 2 weeks of signing "milk" everytime he nursed, he knew what it was. He did his first sign at 8 months (more) and continued to do one sign a month until 11 months, at which time he had a language explosion. He had 85 signs by 14 months. By 18 months he had 250 signs and just as many words. It was amazing to me and a true testimonial to anyone watching him, it worked!
So, you might be wondering what I did to encourage this signing. Well, I did several things. First, it helped that I was fluent and knew the signs to everything he wanted to know signs for. I was also teaching sign classes at the time and he came to all of my classes with me. We didn't watch much TV, but what we did watch was Signing Time. These are really fun videos and, when watched by both Mom, Dad and baby, can really help to supplement your sign learning. Mainly though if you want your child to sign to you you need to be prepared to sign for a long time with nothing in return and to be consistent. Every time you nurse, sign milk, every time they eat, sign food or eat, every time you say Mom or Dad, sign Mom or Dad. Get it? Repetition and consistency are key.
There are a lot of different programs out there also. So much to choose from, how do you know what is best? I am going to do an overview of the main different programs out there and tell you what I think about them. I am biased in that I prefer American Sign Language because it is a real language. I think to make up a signed language for your child is about as helpful as making up a spoken language. So, with that said...
Sign 2 Me. This is a great company. I was a member of their network and taught their curriculum for 2 years. I loved it and highly recommend it. There are classes in every State and if you can't find a class near you, you can buy The Complete Learning Kit. They use American Sign Language signs, so anything you would be signing with your child is a real sign. They also have music to supplement the learning, which is a GREAT way to teach young children (and their parents) to sign.
Signing Time This is a fun set of DVDs and CDs to help teach you and your child American Sign language. Developed by a Mother of a Deaf child and her sister, Signing Time is a fun interactive way to learn. Rachel Coleman (co-creator) writes fun songs, and her daughter Leah and nephew Alex teach the signs.
Baby Signs This is a program that I am not at all impressed with. Taught at Gymboree and through Discovery Toys, they have a large market. However, they do not teach American Sign Language signs. I have looked at much of their products and, by my calculations, they are 80% made up and 20% ASL. Their philosophy is that ASL signs are too difficult for babies and parents to learn. Their company is just providing a bridge of communication to use until the child starts talking. One of the main problems I have with this is that some of their made up signs are actually offensive in the Deaf community. So, if this is something you choose, be sure that you only use it when your child is small and not use it as they get older.
So, there are the Big 3 in Signing with your Baby. If this is something you are interested in, I recommend first, find a class near you. That is the best way to learn. You will learn so much more when you have an instructor who can be sure you are signing correctly and whose brain you can pick :) If there is not a class in your area, invest in the Complete Learning Kit from Sign2Me, and some Signing Time DVDs. Signing Time is also on some PBS stations, so check your local listings.
You may wonder why I am not teaching anymore. It is simple. We moved to a small town that already had a teacher teaching the same curriculum. Her classes were cheaper than mine and I couldn't compete. I miss it though, oh how I miss it.
Giveaway::Good For The Kids
It's here again!!! The Bloggy Giveaway Carnival! I truly love this carnival, it is SO much fun!!! Not only do you get to enter to win some amazing giveaways, but you get to find some great new blogs! WAHOO!
I have a great giveaway for you this time. The company Good For The Kids has generously donated a $30 gift certificate to use in their store however you see fit!
This store is amazing! Their motto is Nurture, Create, Engage. How fantastic is that? I love that they inspire parents to get involved with their children and their play. From baby toys, to preschooler toys, shoes, blankies, bottles, sippy cups and pacifiers...they've got it all!
And, they don't just have items for the kids. They have some beautiful Swarovski Crystal necklaces for Mom and personalized stamps also!
This store truly has it all. And now you can too!
You want to know how to enter the contest? Ok!
1. Go over to the store and look around. Come back and tell me what your favorite item is. If you don't tell me what your favorite item is, and what category it is from, you won't win.
2. Tweet about the contest.
3. Blog about the contest with a link back to me and the store.
4. Subscribe to my RSS feed or Email updates.
5. Follow my blog.
6. Favorite me on Technocrati
7. Stumble this.
8. Kirtsy this.
9. Follow me on Twitter
10. Make me a chocolate cake.
Ok, so you have 10 possible entries here. Oh, and you can enter everyday. Leave a separate comment for each entry.
I will choose a winner at random on Saturday morning, January 31 and notify them by email. So, if your email account is not linked to your comment in some way, you will be disqualified and I will find another winner.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Gratitude Sunday
Ok, here it is again. The top 5 things I am grateful for today.
1. Rain. It's been raining all weekend. I really like when it rains down here and snows up in the Mountains. Lots of water to fill our reservoirs so I can water my garden this summer. It is also clearing out the inversion (I think I link to that more than anything these days) which is good. I have been so sick from the gross air and Libby is getting it now too. YUCK! So, I'm grateful that the rain is clearing it all out.
2. Bloggy Friends. I love that I have all of you who read and comment on my blog. Makes my days awesome!!
3. Our new President. Yep, pretty dang awesome. And how cute are his girls? I mean seriously, they are such little dollies! And his wife..wow, she looked AMAZING at the Inauguration Ball. Wow.
4. My real live friends. Not that those of you who just read my blog aren't real live, but the ones I get to see in the flesh and chat with and play with. It's just nice to talk to someone in person, even if it is only for 30 minutes while Seth is in story time in the library (thanks Kate!).
5. My Ergo. I love my Ergo baby carrier. I know, I make slings so this might be a bit confusing to you. I love all sorts of baby carriers. I love my sling when my baby is really little, and for being out and about. But, for extended periods of time (i.e. Libby is sick and wants to held 24/7) the Ergo is the thing for me. I love it, love it, love it.
6. I know, I said 5, but this one I just can't not talk about today. My Son. He is the sweetest boy and is SO funny. We know that right? But seriously, he is the only one who can make Libby laugh. And she LAUGHS so much with him. He loves his sisters and is such a good big brother. I am so lucky to have such a sweet little guy.
1. Rain. It's been raining all weekend. I really like when it rains down here and snows up in the Mountains. Lots of water to fill our reservoirs so I can water my garden this summer. It is also clearing out the inversion (I think I link to that more than anything these days) which is good. I have been so sick from the gross air and Libby is getting it now too. YUCK! So, I'm grateful that the rain is clearing it all out.
2. Bloggy Friends. I love that I have all of you who read and comment on my blog. Makes my days awesome!!
3. Our new President. Yep, pretty dang awesome. And how cute are his girls? I mean seriously, they are such little dollies! And his wife..wow, she looked AMAZING at the Inauguration Ball. Wow.
4. My real live friends. Not that those of you who just read my blog aren't real live, but the ones I get to see in the flesh and chat with and play with. It's just nice to talk to someone in person, even if it is only for 30 minutes while Seth is in story time in the library (thanks Kate!).
5. My Ergo. I love my Ergo baby carrier. I know, I make slings so this might be a bit confusing to you. I love all sorts of baby carriers. I love my sling when my baby is really little, and for being out and about. But, for extended periods of time (i.e. Libby is sick and wants to held 24/7) the Ergo is the thing for me. I love it, love it, love it.
6. I know, I said 5, but this one I just can't not talk about today. My Son. He is the sweetest boy and is SO funny. We know that right? But seriously, he is the only one who can make Libby laugh. And she LAUGHS so much with him. He loves his sisters and is such a good big brother. I am so lucky to have such a sweet little guy.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Who Are You?
Just cause I like this picture of me. This was YEARS ago (like 8). I only wish I still looked that cute!First is Kim B. who is an attorney in Ohio who deals with foreclosures. (really strange about this one, our names are exactly the same. Well, I don't know her middle name, but we have the same middle initial).
Next we have a Mom in Plano, TX who helped with the PTA Buffet for Shepherd Elementary School.
Another one of my alter egos attended the school board meeting in Big Lake, Minnesota.
I also taught part time at the University of Scranton (how did they know I am an Office fan???) and was married to Juan Pablo Gil. Started PhD studies in Spanish Literature at University of Chicago in January, 2003 (nevermind that I only have High School Spanish under my belt and at that time had a newborn baby).
There is also one of me on Facebook that is in Pennsylvania...it's still up for debate if she and the one above are the same.
You can also read about me in the Washington Post on September 4, 2003. Apparently my computer "freaked out after plugging into the schools network because it was infected with viruses".
There is also a girl from Germany, but we can't figure out anything about her because neither of us read German. Her nickname is Kimy though.
Another is a writer in Arizona. A very spiritual girl who is majoring in Social Work at Arizona State University.
One of my alter egos ran in the 2008 Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. She is probably really cool. I wouldn't mind if people thought that was me. Except if they know me...they know it's not.
This could prove for hours of fun. Seriously. It's fun to read these and see what other people with my name are doing. I wonder how similar we are, or aren't and what they are doing. It's really interesting though, because my name isn't that common...or at least I didn't think it was.
Go now, google you name, and see how many alter egos you have out there.
Oh, and if you get bored with that -- do an image search for your name. Or go here, put in your name and see pictures of all of you.
It's freaky. Really freaky.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Holy Posty Pants!
Yep, that's me! THREE in one day! Can you stand it??
Ok, this one is really important. You know how I make dresses? You know how you all love my dresses (just nod and say yes here). Ok, well you can WIN a dress!!! How, you ask? Why it's quite simple. Head on over to Resourceful Mommy and check out her giveaway! Scroll down to the bottom of the prizes and see a BEAUTIFUL dress made by yours truly.
What? You only have boys? Well that's ok, put them in a dress. They will look super cool. Ok, if you don't like that option, I will make them some super cool shorts for this summer. Go. Now. Why are you still here?
Beautiful dress model is my sweet niece...isn't she a doll???
Very Funny Friday
Ok, maybe I'm not very funny, but the other ladies who are participating in this blogging event (not a carnival, it's an EVENT) are funny, very funny.
So, here is my funny story. This is one of my favorites. My darling son is the curious sort. He really could be named Curious George.
You have to realize something about me. I am one of those Moms. You know the ones who call things what they are? My kids talk about penises and vaginas like hands and feet. It's no big deal. They know what they are, and that is great. But, when it comes to telling them what they're for?? Well, that's another story.
One night last spring, I walked into the bathroom while he was having his bath. I had just gotten his sister out, dried off, lotioned up and ready for bed. Now it was his turn. So, I walk into the bathroom and hear him saying, "poppin' peoples, poppin' peoples" and he was playing with his testicles. I looked at him and said, "Buddy, what are you doing?" He said, "MOM! I have these little BALLS down here!" (he was very excited!). "I know you do sweetie, let's wash you now". "But MOM! These BALLS they are so COOL!" "Yes honey, I know, now stop". "Mom, what are these called?" "Those are your testicles baby" "What do they do?"
Ugh. I don't want to have the sex talk, he's only 3! Granted he's a very bright child, but I really don't think he needs to know what his testicles do at the tender age of 3. So, I do what any smart parent does, I change the subject.
"Let's get you washed sweetie. What do you want for snack tonight? Do you want to read Skippy Jon Jones tonight?" Really, anything to get him to stop "poppin' peoples".
I get him out of the bath uneventfully and into the living room to get ready for bed. I come in the living room and he's at it again! "MOM! These balls are so cool! What are they called? Testiples? I wanna POP THEM OUT!"
At this point my blood ran cold. Could he really pop them out?? What would that do to my sweet child? ARGH!
So, I very calmly, told him to STOP! "But, Mom, they're COOL! Why can't I pop them out? What do they do?"
Frustrated with this child who is trying to disfigure himself, I said what any smart Mother would say, "Talk to your Dad, he has them too".
"Dad? What are these testiples? Why can't I pop them out? What do they do?" The questions came running out one on top of another. His Dad (my smart husband) very calmly answered them, "you can't pop them out because it would hurt really bad". "But DAD, what do they DO???" He was getting a tad frustrated with us by this point. Jeremy waited a couple of minutes and said, "huh?"
Seth looked at Jeremy, looked at me and said, "I don't know".
Yep, we're good at the whole distracting business. I just hope we can keep distracting him for a few more years. I am SO not ready to have "the talk".
Pillow Talk
The other night my love and I were laying in bed talking. We were talking about what would happen if one of us died. I often ask this question, "What would you do if I died right now?", and he answers something like, "Have a party" or something silly like that.
But, this spurred a much deeper conversation than we have had in the past. What would you do? I hate to think about me dying, I know that Jeremy would be ok, but I worry about the kids. I told him he'd have to remarry. But, she would have to be nice to the kids, and not better than me in any way (if you catch my drift...but of course being the person he is, he wouldn't know that until after they were already married. gah.) Anyway, it is really important to me that she would be good to our kids, but not let them forget me. See, my Grammie's (Dad's Mom) Mom died when she was young. Her Dad got remarried and his wife was AWFUL to my Grammie. She moved out when she was young and knew nothing about her biological Mom. I don't want that.
So, I had a list of demands.
1. My picture would have to remain up for everyone to look at and adore. (and realize that I am MUCH cuter than his 2nd wife)
2. New wife could not be called Mama (that is me and me alone.)
3. I should be talked about regularly and my grave visited very often.(I like daisies)
4. A life of celibacy. What?!?! I don't want to think about that!
I warned him if he didn't stick to these rules that I would haunt him from the grave.
That's our sexy pillow talk. Me dying, his undying love for me and me haunting him from the grave. Pretty hot stuff huh?
But, this spurred a much deeper conversation than we have had in the past. What would you do? I hate to think about me dying, I know that Jeremy would be ok, but I worry about the kids. I told him he'd have to remarry. But, she would have to be nice to the kids, and not better than me in any way (if you catch my drift...but of course being the person he is, he wouldn't know that until after they were already married. gah.) Anyway, it is really important to me that she would be good to our kids, but not let them forget me. See, my Grammie's (Dad's Mom) Mom died when she was young. Her Dad got remarried and his wife was AWFUL to my Grammie. She moved out when she was young and knew nothing about her biological Mom. I don't want that.
So, I had a list of demands.
1. My picture would have to remain up for everyone to look at and adore. (and realize that I am MUCH cuter than his 2nd wife)
2. New wife could not be called Mama (that is me and me alone.)
3. I should be talked about regularly and my grave visited very often.(I like daisies)
4. A life of celibacy. What?!?! I don't want to think about that!
I warned him if he didn't stick to these rules that I would haunt him from the grave.
That's our sexy pillow talk. Me dying, his undying love for me and me haunting him from the grave. Pretty hot stuff huh?
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Failure
I am afraid. yes, of spiders and fish and birds, but not just that. I am afraid of failure. This morning, Jeremy and I were talking about my weight loss and how things are going. I am not feeling so great about it. Granted I've lost 10 lbs. in 3 weeks, but it's not enough. It's gotten me thinking today about my weight and why it is such a big issue with me.
When I was a little girl, I remember my Grama saying, "I wish I had your figure and you had a feather". I never understood what that meant, but I think it was her way of telling me that I looked good. I never felt it though.
The first time I really thought much about how I looked was when I was 5 or 6. I was in dance class and all the other girls were really long and I was round. It was the only way I knew how to describe it. I felt weird and that I didn't fit with them.
As I got older, my weight was always an issue. Now, you have to understand something, I was never fat. Not at all. I just thought I was. I have an older sister and a Mother who were struggling with their weight so I of course, thought I should be struggling with mine. I have never been tiny, so I felt huge.
When I was in Jr. High I was a cheerleader (don't laugh...ok, laugh, it's fine. Maybe someday I'll share pictures!) and I was always a base. No big whoop, right? To be the girl that the little girls stand on? Well, it is a big deal when you're 13 and 14. It sucks. They tell the boys, the boys tease you about your weight and you decide that you don't like this whole cheerleading biz anyway so you make up some lame excuse as to why you're not trying out in High School. Didn't happen to you? Uh, ok...purely hypothetical anyway.
Anyway, so back to weight and body image and all that jazz. When I graduated from High School I weighed 135 lbs, wore a size 10 jeans and looked H-O-T. Except, I didn't think so. And I thought if I did think so it would mean that I was concieted. I didn't know that a person could be humble and still comfortable in their skin.
Fast forward to today. I am not the heaviest I've been -- that was after Emma died and I got pregnant with Seth. But, I am also not the thinnest. I am trying really hard not to fail at getting healthy and being in shape. I want to be comfortable in my skin. I want to feel good about myself.
I am afraid of failure though. And I'll tell you something, the failure I think I'm afraid of most, is the failure that will come from not teaching my girls about body image and that it is ok to be comfortable in your skin. Because while I work so hard at changing my mindset, I don't want my girls to have to. I want it to be second nature for them. I want them to be happy and confident women. I can not fail at this.
So my plan of action is to change myself now, while they are young. I will be healthy for their whole lives and help them to realize that however God makes them, they are beautiful, they are Daughters of God, and they are perfect. Just like me.
When I was a little girl, I remember my Grama saying, "I wish I had your figure and you had a feather". I never understood what that meant, but I think it was her way of telling me that I looked good. I never felt it though.
The first time I really thought much about how I looked was when I was 5 or 6. I was in dance class and all the other girls were really long and I was round. It was the only way I knew how to describe it. I felt weird and that I didn't fit with them.
As I got older, my weight was always an issue. Now, you have to understand something, I was never fat. Not at all. I just thought I was. I have an older sister and a Mother who were struggling with their weight so I of course, thought I should be struggling with mine. I have never been tiny, so I felt huge.
When I was in Jr. High I was a cheerleader (don't laugh...ok, laugh, it's fine. Maybe someday I'll share pictures!) and I was always a base. No big whoop, right? To be the girl that the little girls stand on? Well, it is a big deal when you're 13 and 14. It sucks. They tell the boys, the boys tease you about your weight and you decide that you don't like this whole cheerleading biz anyway so you make up some lame excuse as to why you're not trying out in High School. Didn't happen to you? Uh, ok...purely hypothetical anyway.
Anyway, so back to weight and body image and all that jazz. When I graduated from High School I weighed 135 lbs, wore a size 10 jeans and looked H-O-T. Except, I didn't think so. And I thought if I did think so it would mean that I was concieted. I didn't know that a person could be humble and still comfortable in their skin.
Fast forward to today. I am not the heaviest I've been -- that was after Emma died and I got pregnant with Seth. But, I am also not the thinnest. I am trying really hard not to fail at getting healthy and being in shape. I want to be comfortable in my skin. I want to feel good about myself.
I am afraid of failure though. And I'll tell you something, the failure I think I'm afraid of most, is the failure that will come from not teaching my girls about body image and that it is ok to be comfortable in your skin. Because while I work so hard at changing my mindset, I don't want my girls to have to. I want it to be second nature for them. I want them to be happy and confident women. I can not fail at this.
So my plan of action is to change myself now, while they are young. I will be healthy for their whole lives and help them to realize that however God makes them, they are beautiful, they are Daughters of God, and they are perfect. Just like me.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Somebody Lied
originally posted in February 2007 on my family blog.
I'm not sure who it was, but someone lied to me. It must have been when I was a very young girl. I remember singing a song..."When I grow up, I want to be a Mother". It must have started then. Someone lied to me when they said this Mothering thing was fun and rewarding. Today, it's not. I have a feeling that my Mother knew that. She just didn't tell me. See, here's my theory. Mom's have a code of conduct. They can not tell their daughters (future mothers) how difficult it is to be a Mother. They can't tell them because then what would happen to our world? Women would realize that they don't get paid to do the work of many, and that it would be hard! If they realized this, they wouldn't do it. Then where would we be? Yep, that's got to be it.
If I have to rescue Amelia from Seth one more time, change another sat-in for hours poopy diaper, tell Seth to stop laying on his sister, listen to her whine, etc.,etc.,etc. one more time...I just might blow. The names have changed but the problems haven't. "Amelia stop laying on Libby!" "Amelia please stop whining!" "Seth don't hit your sister with the light saber!" "Stop teasing!"
Have I told you all how clingy my daughter is? She loves me. I am glad. But seriously, she doesn't need to be ON me 24/7! I promise! She will scream if I leave her sight...it can get really tiring. She still is clingy. Just her sweet personality. But, she's not as bad as she was which is nice.
Oh...but I guess it isn't all bad. I do love the spontaneous kisses, watching them laugh together, and snuggling with them while they sleep. I love listening to them playing in Seth's tent right now with his cars. I love these moments of peace. I guess that is what this is all about. Watching them play together, learn together and grow together.
So, Somebody did lie. While I never knew how hard this would be, I never knew how much I could love either. No one ever told me that I would give anything to protect my child, that I would love them so fiercely that it could actually hurt. No one ever told me just how much I would really love being a Mom. That while there are days and moments when you want to pull your hair out, you wouldn't trade it for anything.
For my babies...I love you more than you will ever know. I will try to tell you all of these things, but, just as I didn't understand, you won't either until you have your own babies. Until you see your child, hold your child, nurse and love your child, you just won't get it. So, I'll do my best. I'll do my best so that I fool you and you want to do this also. So that someday, I can watch you parent and I can have the really fun, rewarding part...Grandparenting!
I'm not sure who it was, but someone lied to me. It must have been when I was a very young girl. I remember singing a song..."When I grow up, I want to be a Mother". It must have started then. Someone lied to me when they said this Mothering thing was fun and rewarding. Today, it's not. I have a feeling that my Mother knew that. She just didn't tell me. See, here's my theory. Mom's have a code of conduct. They can not tell their daughters (future mothers) how difficult it is to be a Mother. They can't tell them because then what would happen to our world? Women would realize that they don't get paid to do the work of many, and that it would be hard! If they realized this, they wouldn't do it. Then where would we be? Yep, that's got to be it.If I have to rescue Amelia from Seth one more time, change another sat-in for hours poopy diaper, tell Seth to stop laying on his sister, listen to her whine, etc.,etc.,etc. one more time...I just might blow. The names have changed but the problems haven't. "Amelia stop laying on Libby!" "Amelia please stop whining!" "Seth don't hit your sister with the light saber!" "Stop teasing!"
Have I told you all how clingy my daughter is? She loves me. I am glad. But seriously, she doesn't need to be ON me 24/7! I promise! She will scream if I leave her sight...it can get really tiring. She still is clingy. Just her sweet personality. But, she's not as bad as she was which is nice.
Oh...but I guess it isn't all bad. I do love the spontaneous kisses, watching them laugh together, and snuggling with them while they sleep. I love listening to them playing in Seth's tent right now with his cars. I love these moments of peace. I guess that is what this is all about. Watching them play together, learn together and grow together.
So, Somebody did lie. While I never knew how hard this would be, I never knew how much I could love either. No one ever told me that I would give anything to protect my child, that I would love them so fiercely that it could actually hurt. No one ever told me just how much I would really love being a Mom. That while there are days and moments when you want to pull your hair out, you wouldn't trade it for anything.
For my babies...I love you more than you will ever know. I will try to tell you all of these things, but, just as I didn't understand, you won't either until you have your own babies. Until you see your child, hold your child, nurse and love your child, you just won't get it. So, I'll do my best. I'll do my best so that I fool you and you want to do this also. So that someday, I can watch you parent and I can have the really fun, rewarding part...Grandparenting!
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Longing
Oh how I am longing for warmth. I long for the feel of sunshine on my face and arms and back. I long for the days when the Earth is warm beneath my feet and my children can play outside all day. I long for warm nights sitting on my front porch. I long for the smell of chlorine and sunshine on my family after a long day at the pool. I long for fresh fruits and vegetables and Saturdays at the Gardener's Market. I long for listening to the crickets outside my window. I long for long days at the park, and coming in at dark. I long for long walks, bike rides, and sunshine. I long for Summer.
Since it is the dead of Winter though, I will try to enjoy this time I have. The short days. Watching my children play in the snow. The smell of winter on their skin. The feel of the cool air as it blows on my face. The long purple afternoon shadows. The fabulous taste of warm soups on a cold day. My son going snowboarding with his Dad for the first time. The light staying a bit longer everyday. All of these things I will enjoy because I know it will be Summer soon and my children will be that much older.
I will enjoy today as it is, so that I might learn to enjoy my children as they are today.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Not Me, No Way!
Welcome to Not Me Monday! This is where I talk about all the things I SO did not do because a good, responsible parent would NEVER do these things (heehee!)
This week I did NOT let my children stay in their pajamas all day for a couple days in a row. No way, not me.
I also did NOT let Seth wear his Star Wars shirt 3 days in a row just so he wouldn't complain and cry at me. Nope.
I did NOT let my darling daughter eat graham crackers for breakfast and lunch. Nope, not me.
I also did NOT laugh when said daughter drew this picture on Sunday in Church
When asked what that was, she said it's a diaper on Bob. Of course, that looks JUST like a diaper!
This week I did NOT let my children stay in their pajamas all day for a couple days in a row. No way, not me.
I also did NOT let Seth wear his Star Wars shirt 3 days in a row just so he wouldn't complain and cry at me. Nope.
I did NOT let my darling daughter eat graham crackers for breakfast and lunch. Nope, not me.
I also did NOT laugh when said daughter drew this picture on Sunday in Church
When asked what that was, she said it's a diaper on Bob. Of course, that looks JUST like a diaper!
This week I also did NOT let my children watch movies just so they would leave me alone and let me sew. No way man, not me.
I also did NOT dream nightly of ice cream, brownies, cake and cookies. Nope, I don't miss the sweets at all. Not one bit.
Last night I did NOT tell Jeremy that I was going to fold laundry while watching Brothers and Sisters, but instead just sat there like a bum eating hummus and pita chips. No way, that would be mean.
Today I will NOT try to pawn off my children on unsuspecting neighbors so I can get some work done. Nope, not me.
How about you? What did you NOT do???
For more Not Me Monday's, go visit the Original Not Me MamaI also did NOT dream nightly of ice cream, brownies, cake and cookies. Nope, I don't miss the sweets at all. Not one bit.
Last night I did NOT tell Jeremy that I was going to fold laundry while watching Brothers and Sisters, but instead just sat there like a bum eating hummus and pita chips. No way, that would be mean.
Today I will NOT try to pawn off my children on unsuspecting neighbors so I can get some work done. Nope, not me.
How about you? What did you NOT do???
I Have A Dream
And so did he. Today we honor Martin Luther King Jr. His goals were mighty, his dreams were amazing and tomorrow we get to see one of them fulfilled.
One of my dreams is that my children will know the things that happened to spark Dr. King's great works, but to never understand why people treated others that way. I want for them to grow up color-blind and loving all men, regardless of what they look like. I want them to be Christ-like and to love others unconditionally.
Because I want so much more for them, I am so grateful for him.
P.S. Happy Birthday Aunt Sissa!! We love you!
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Gratitude Sunday
This was a trying but good week. I have much to be grateful for.
1. My husband who is helping me eat better. He totally rocks.
2. My kids for being so forgiving of my many faults.
3. I won a contest to go to Mom 2.0 Summit Conference. I'm SO stoked. Now I'm just looking for some sponsors to help get me there. If you know of anyone -- send them my way.
4. The sun was shining for a lot of the week. Now there is just the yucky inversion, but I'm not thinking about that. Just about what I am grateful for :)
5. My friend Shannon called this week. It was great to hear her voice, it's been way too long.
6. One more that is very special. Nie Nie is BACK! It is grand to read her words once again and to watch her story continue. AND there is a book to help raise money for she and her sweet Christian. Go now and buy a copy :)
So, what are you grateful for today??
1. My husband who is helping me eat better. He totally rocks.
2. My kids for being so forgiving of my many faults.
3. I won a contest to go to Mom 2.0 Summit Conference. I'm SO stoked. Now I'm just looking for some sponsors to help get me there. If you know of anyone -- send them my way.
4. The sun was shining for a lot of the week. Now there is just the yucky inversion, but I'm not thinking about that. Just about what I am grateful for :)
5. My friend Shannon called this week. It was great to hear her voice, it's been way too long.
6. One more that is very special. Nie Nie is BACK! It is grand to read her words once again and to watch her story continue. AND there is a book to help raise money for she and her sweet Christian. Go now and buy a copy :)
So, what are you grateful for today??
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Questions and Answers Part Deux
So there were a few more questions and I LOVE to talk about myself and family, so here we go :)
My new friend (and FABULOUS blog designer) Christy asks:
How did you lose Emma? Was she sick? Before I answer this, you all should know that Christy emailed me and asked if it was ok to ask me this question, so here we go. Right after her death, I wrote it all out and had it on the internet, hoping to help other families. Well, one day at church a woman was telling me about this website where she read about the death of a baby. She went into how the baby died and was very judgemental and went on and on and on. That baby was Emma, I was the Mother that she was talking so terribly about.
So, I will say this -- she died while having a nap at my in-law's house. She was perfectly healthy and happy. It was very sudden, very tragic and very heart breaking.
I will not share her complete story on my blog, but if you email me personally, I may share it with you. Ok? Ok.
Do you plan to have more children? I sure hope so :) I know that there is at least one more baby for us, possibly two. We have always said we'd take it one pregnancy at a time. I think I'll know when I'm done. At least I hope I do :)
Who inspires you most? Oh man, so many people inspire me in so many different ways. My husband inspires me to live healthier, my children inspire me to be better and I am inspired by God to live more righteously. Really, my inspiration comes in many different forms throughout the day, so I can't pick just one. Every person that comes into my life is an inspiration to me in one way or another.
Will you hang out with me at Blogher? If I get to go I will DEFINITELY hang out with you!!!!!
Anymore questions? We could make this a regular Saturday occurance!!
Now I'm off to enjoy the day with my sweet hooligans, sew some slings and hang out with my Man.
Have a fabulous weekend and try to stay warm (especially you Midwesterners!)
My new friend (and FABULOUS blog designer) Christy asks:
How did you lose Emma? Was she sick? Before I answer this, you all should know that Christy emailed me and asked if it was ok to ask me this question, so here we go. Right after her death, I wrote it all out and had it on the internet, hoping to help other families. Well, one day at church a woman was telling me about this website where she read about the death of a baby. She went into how the baby died and was very judgemental and went on and on and on. That baby was Emma, I was the Mother that she was talking so terribly about.
So, I will say this -- she died while having a nap at my in-law's house. She was perfectly healthy and happy. It was very sudden, very tragic and very heart breaking.
I will not share her complete story on my blog, but if you email me personally, I may share it with you. Ok? Ok.
Do you plan to have more children? I sure hope so :) I know that there is at least one more baby for us, possibly two. We have always said we'd take it one pregnancy at a time. I think I'll know when I'm done. At least I hope I do :)
Who inspires you most? Oh man, so many people inspire me in so many different ways. My husband inspires me to live healthier, my children inspire me to be better and I am inspired by God to live more righteously. Really, my inspiration comes in many different forms throughout the day, so I can't pick just one. Every person that comes into my life is an inspiration to me in one way or another.
Will you hang out with me at Blogher? If I get to go I will DEFINITELY hang out with you!!!!!
Anymore questions? We could make this a regular Saturday occurance!!
Now I'm off to enjoy the day with my sweet hooligans, sew some slings and hang out with my Man.
Have a fabulous weekend and try to stay warm (especially you Midwesterners!)
Friday, January 16, 2009
My Bubs
I was wandering around Blogworld yesterday and came upon a blog where a Mama interviewed her son. It was so cute that I am TOTALLY stealing it :)
So, I give you....my Bubs.
How are you doing today? Good. Good! What do you want to be when you grow up? Um....be a Jedi Knight. What would you do? Um work. What kind of work? Um, building things. But, when I hear bad guys, I'll fight. Oh, ok. What kind of work does Daddy do? Um, go to work? and he builds things. I'm just going to build things when I grow up. What does Daddy do at work? Works on the computer. Who is your best friend? Aurora. Why? Because she's so funny. What do you like to do best at home? Play with Amelia. What's your favorite thing to play with Amelia? Light sabers. What is your favorite way to help around the house? Mop. What chore do you really NOT like? Um, making my bed. That 's a hard one. I do not like that one. What's your favorite game to play? Star Wars. How many more kids do you think Mom and Dad should have? Um, 28. What do you want to do tomorrow? Um, play with you. Whats your favorite song? I am a Child of..wait, the Star Wars song. Where are your glasses? Um, downstairs on the cabinet because I do not want them on because they are bugging me. Can you get me one more big graham cracker? Can you get me 3 more big graham crackers? What's your favorite movie? Phantom Menace, Phantom Menace. What's your favorite season? Winter Why? Because I can play in the snow. What's your favorite color? Green Whats your favorite thing to eat? Green Ice Cream. What do you want for your birthday(although it's not until June, he talks about it constantly)? Candy and presents and new light sabers -- can I have new light sabers for my birthday? I need another red one so Dad can be Darth Maul and also so two guys can be bad guys, Mom. I need one more red light saber so 2 guys can be bad guys and we can have a Darth Maul Mom! What do you want me to tell the people who read my blog about you? Um, that I love Star Wars! Anything else? no. yes! yes! I love Cars. Who's your favorite in Cars? Lightning McQueen. Why? Because he races. Are you excited to go to Kindergarten next year? Ya-hey! yes yes!
Ok, there you have it folks. My Bubs. He is sweet, and loving, and a great brother and my best bubs and I love him SO much!
This is something I highly recommend doing. It was fun and will be a great reminder of this sweet boy when he is all grown up and won't want to play with me anymore.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Sleep?? I Don't Need No Stinkin' Sleep!
This is what my children used to think. Seriously, I have terrible sleepers. Always have. Seth was the worst though. When he was about 9 months old my friend Vanessa told me about Elizabeth Pantley's No Cry Sleep Solution. I went right out and bought it. Anything that involved sleeping and not crying? Something that was gentle, yet effective?? Oh yeah, I was ALL over that. It totally worked. He would sleep for more than 30 minutes at a time. It was heaven! I was sleeping at night and was such a nicer Mommy. I have used the techniques she teaches with Amelia and am ready to crack open the book again for a refresher course for Miss Libby. She doesn't stop with sleep for the newborn though. She has gone on to write 4 more books!
- The No-Cry Sleep Solution for Toddlers & Preschoolers
- The No-Cry Potty Training Solution (I SO need this one right now also!!)
- The No-Cry Discipline Solution
- The No-Cry Nap Solution *NEW*
Will your child only nap in your arms, in a swing, or after elaborate rituals? Does your child take cat naps -- or none at all? Let world-renowned, trusted parenting author Elizabeth Pantley help you. She’ll guide you with the same sensitive expertise and gentle approach used in her other No-Cry bestsellers about sleep, discipline and potty training.
Research proves that daily naps improve health, mood, growth, intelligence and well-being. Yet children often resist the naps they need and parents don’t know how to make them happen. The results are fussy, crying babies and cranky, grouchy kids who also have trouble sleeping at night!
In The No-Cry Nap Solution Pantley explains to parents of children ages newborn to kindergarten the importance of napping to both behavior during the day and sleeping during (and through!) the night. She then shares with you her gentle, loving child-friendly techniques--tested on families of all sizes and circumstances--and shows you how you can customize her solutions for your own family.
Pantley addresses issues such as children who resist naps, dealing with schedule changes, turning short naps into longer ones, helping a child go from needing motion for sleep to “stationery” sleep, nursing at naptime, daycare-related napping problems, newborn “in-arms” or “in-sling” napping issues, and much more.
I don't know about you all, but this book is RIGHT UP MY ALLEY!!!! I think this is definitely one that will be added to my library, and SOON! Here's to a good night's sleep...I know we all need it.Loss::Part 2
You just got the phone call, email, visit and your world has changed forever. You've found out that your daughter/sister/aunt/friend has just lost a child. You feel so extremely helpless. You can't fathom her pain, and don't want to, it hurts too much.
As promised, here is part 2 to my series on Loss. What do you do when someone you love loses their child? What do you say? What shouldn't you say? What can you possibly do that will ease this tremendous pain? How can you possibly understand and offer any comfort at all?
These are common questions and feelings. I have not only been on the loss side, but on the comforting side. When Emma died I had someone that I could lean on completely. Jeremy lost the same child I did so sometimes I didn't want to weigh him down even more. Luckily I had my sister-in-law, Stephanie. So I asked Stephanie what advice she would have. She was so intimately involved in the grieving process for both Jeremy and me, but mostly me. She had this to say,
“Really the best advice I can give is to simply let the grieving parent feel whatever they are going to feel - don't try and fix it. It's really pretty scary because you're not sure what to say or do so I think the best thing was to just "let it be." That doesn't mean ignore the grieving parents - just don't try and justify the loss. Very simply just "be." I don't think I ever offered advice or anything like that because there was no way for me to know how you felt. I guess as for talking to you (because everyone always feel like they need to be talking through it when in all actuality I think simply sitting back and "being" quiet is worth it's weight in gold) I echoed what you were saying, whatever it was, even if I thought it sounded a little bizarre at the time (I'm not remembering anything specific). People feel so uncomfortable in this situation and sometimes they babble on needlessly - that's why I'm an advocate for just sitting back and listening and simply echoing what the parents are saying.”
She saved me. She was very important to me. I think that by telling you why she was important, you will learn how to help the person you love.
1.Listen.
I called everyone I could think of trying to get a hold of my Mom and Stephanie. You see, Stephanie and my brother and their kids had just moved to Utah on Tuesday. It was now Saturday and my sweet baby girl lay dead in the hospital. They were staying with my parents. I called the home phone; no answer. I called my Mom's cell phone; no answer. I called my sister. She answered. I told her the terrible news and she couldn't believe it. She was in shock, as were we all, and drove to my folks house to deliver the terrible news. Stephanie was sick that day, very sick. However the next day, she and my Mom got on an airplane and flew to Kansas to be with us. She listened to me. She listened to me cry, scream, wail, bargain, weep. She listened to me talk about Emma – her life, what she'd done that week, that day. She listened to me talk about Emma's death over and over. I was trying to reconcile it in my brain and heart. She sat so patiently and listened to me. She continued to listen as much as I needed. She, at the time, was the Mother to 6 children. Six children who had just been uprooted from the life they knew and who just lost a cousin that was like a sister to them. She was the wife to a man who was watching his baby sister and her husband (who just happened to be his best friend) grieve the loss of their only child. She still made time to listen to me. For months and years she would listen. My sounding board. My best friend. She listened.
2.Remember
Remember the child who is gone. Remember important days. If the child died before birth, remember his/her due date, angel date (day the baby died) and birthdate. If the child died after birth, remember that birth and angel date. Those are really important days. Those are the pretty obvious dates to remember. But there are many other milestones that are difficult. The day that the child has been gone longer than they were here, all holidays, if the child had been sick for a long time, the day they found out the child was sick. These are all really important days to remember.
Talk about the child. Share your favorite memories, things you remember, what made you laugh about this child. Talk about what you think that s/he is doing now. What you think they would be like at a certain age.
Just remember them. Send a card to let your loved one know you are thinking of them. Anytime is a good time to send a card. Those of us who have lost a child never forget them, and we don't want anyone else to either. It means so much when people say, “I am thinking of you today”.
3.Never Compare
Never compare the loss of someone's child to any other kind of loss. I had someone tell my Mom (no joke here) that she completely understood what we were going through because her cat died. I'm just going to leave it at that.
No two losses are the same and no two people grieve the same. It always irritates me when people say, “I know exactly how you feel”. I'm sorry, but you don't. No one does. I have had several friends lose children since Emma died. I don't know exactly how they feel, I am not them. I only know how I felt and how I feel. That is the only comfort I can give. I can say, I know how I felt, how much it hurt and I am so sorry.
4.When in doubt...say I'm Sorry.
If you don't know what to say, and chances are you won't, just say I'm Sorry. It means more than you know.
5.Don't try to comfort with Religion.
This is a difficult one. Especially for those who have very strong faith. I know that I will see Emma again. I know that I will have the opportunity to raise her after the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. I know that she is doing great and marvelous work in the Spirit World. I know that my family is forever. However when my arms are empty, my breasts are full and my heart is broken, none of that matters. Please do not say, “Well, at least you know you'll see her again”. Do not ever say that. It is of very little comfort and at times just makes the person grieving angry. If they don't know those things, wait until the time permits and they bring it up. It would be appropriate to say that if they were to ask you your thoughts on life after death. Or, if they are struggling and wondering if they will see their baby again. These are good times to bring it up.
6.Stages of Grief are not Linear
This is really important. Don't expect people to go through the Stages of Grief in order. It doesn't work that way. I can tell you that I have often felt anger, denial, acceptance, bargaining all within an hour. Don't expect that your loved one will get to acceptance and be done with it. They may go right back into denial in a heartbeat. The stages also don't manifest one at a time in a nice linear fashion. They are all over the place, just as their grief is.
7.Be Forgiving.
I know that I said and did many things during the first year that were not kind. My family and friends very sweetly turned the other cheek and loved me anyway. Know that when someone loses their child, they are not thinking clearly. Their thoughts are dominated by those of their sweet children. They think of what their life could/would/and should have been like. Everything is about the child. Forgive them for things they may do to offend. They really don't realize it.
8.Help them.
Food, cabbage leaves, sage and parsley tea, clean apartment, help moving, laughter, tissues, memories. These are a few of the numerous things that people did to help us. One of my friends, who lives in Louisiana, called a local sandwich shop and had a platter of sandwiches, chips and soda delivered to our house. My father-in-law went to the grocery store and stocked up on cabbage leaves (for my aching, swollen, milk-filled breasts), tissues and new towels (for all the milk I was leaking). Our dear friends cleaned our apartment when we were gone burying Emma, and filled our refrigerator with food so we could eat something when we came back. My Mom and brother came out and helped us move to Utah to be near our baby. The same friends that cleaned our apartment before, cleaned it again after we moved and we got our full deposit back. My sister-in-law found out that sage and parsley would help to dry up my milk. All of these people sat with us and gave us reason to laugh again, let us cry, and let us just be.
9.Encourage
Encourage your loved to grieve in the way that works for them. For me, it was talking and writing. Whether it be a journal, a blog, or on a napkin, writing helped me. My Mom told me of one of her friends who, when her husband died, had a journal sitting in the living room. When different things happened, people could just pick up the journal and write in it. I am very grateful to have this. I couldn't dress Emma, so my Mom, Mother-in-law, sister and sister-in-law did it for me. To read their tender accounts of that experience helps to heal my broken heart. I am so grateful that they gave me that gift. Encourage your loved one through writing. Write down what is going on for them. Maybe they are not a writer, do it for them. Record this time, someday they will want to go back and read about it.
10.Love
I know this one goes without saying, but I am going to say it anyway. Love love love. Your loved one needs it more than ever right now.
I pray that no one ever has to go through this, but they do. More often than not, I am found by those who it has happened to. If you find yourself in this situation, print this off and give it to your loved ones so they can help you.
As promised, here is part 2 to my series on Loss. What do you do when someone you love loses their child? What do you say? What shouldn't you say? What can you possibly do that will ease this tremendous pain? How can you possibly understand and offer any comfort at all?
These are common questions and feelings. I have not only been on the loss side, but on the comforting side. When Emma died I had someone that I could lean on completely. Jeremy lost the same child I did so sometimes I didn't want to weigh him down even more. Luckily I had my sister-in-law, Stephanie. So I asked Stephanie what advice she would have. She was so intimately involved in the grieving process for both Jeremy and me, but mostly me. She had this to say,
“Really the best advice I can give is to simply let the grieving parent feel whatever they are going to feel - don't try and fix it. It's really pretty scary because you're not sure what to say or do so I think the best thing was to just "let it be." That doesn't mean ignore the grieving parents - just don't try and justify the loss. Very simply just "be." I don't think I ever offered advice or anything like that because there was no way for me to know how you felt. I guess as for talking to you (because everyone always feel like they need to be talking through it when in all actuality I think simply sitting back and "being" quiet is worth it's weight in gold) I echoed what you were saying, whatever it was, even if I thought it sounded a little bizarre at the time (I'm not remembering anything specific). People feel so uncomfortable in this situation and sometimes they babble on needlessly - that's why I'm an advocate for just sitting back and listening and simply echoing what the parents are saying.”
She saved me. She was very important to me. I think that by telling you why she was important, you will learn how to help the person you love.
1.Listen.
I called everyone I could think of trying to get a hold of my Mom and Stephanie. You see, Stephanie and my brother and their kids had just moved to Utah on Tuesday. It was now Saturday and my sweet baby girl lay dead in the hospital. They were staying with my parents. I called the home phone; no answer. I called my Mom's cell phone; no answer. I called my sister. She answered. I told her the terrible news and she couldn't believe it. She was in shock, as were we all, and drove to my folks house to deliver the terrible news. Stephanie was sick that day, very sick. However the next day, she and my Mom got on an airplane and flew to Kansas to be with us. She listened to me. She listened to me cry, scream, wail, bargain, weep. She listened to me talk about Emma – her life, what she'd done that week, that day. She listened to me talk about Emma's death over and over. I was trying to reconcile it in my brain and heart. She sat so patiently and listened to me. She continued to listen as much as I needed. She, at the time, was the Mother to 6 children. Six children who had just been uprooted from the life they knew and who just lost a cousin that was like a sister to them. She was the wife to a man who was watching his baby sister and her husband (who just happened to be his best friend) grieve the loss of their only child. She still made time to listen to me. For months and years she would listen. My sounding board. My best friend. She listened.
2.Remember
Remember the child who is gone. Remember important days. If the child died before birth, remember his/her due date, angel date (day the baby died) and birthdate. If the child died after birth, remember that birth and angel date. Those are really important days. Those are the pretty obvious dates to remember. But there are many other milestones that are difficult. The day that the child has been gone longer than they were here, all holidays, if the child had been sick for a long time, the day they found out the child was sick. These are all really important days to remember.
Talk about the child. Share your favorite memories, things you remember, what made you laugh about this child. Talk about what you think that s/he is doing now. What you think they would be like at a certain age.
Just remember them. Send a card to let your loved one know you are thinking of them. Anytime is a good time to send a card. Those of us who have lost a child never forget them, and we don't want anyone else to either. It means so much when people say, “I am thinking of you today”.
3.Never Compare
Never compare the loss of someone's child to any other kind of loss. I had someone tell my Mom (no joke here) that she completely understood what we were going through because her cat died. I'm just going to leave it at that.
No two losses are the same and no two people grieve the same. It always irritates me when people say, “I know exactly how you feel”. I'm sorry, but you don't. No one does. I have had several friends lose children since Emma died. I don't know exactly how they feel, I am not them. I only know how I felt and how I feel. That is the only comfort I can give. I can say, I know how I felt, how much it hurt and I am so sorry.
4.When in doubt...say I'm Sorry.
If you don't know what to say, and chances are you won't, just say I'm Sorry. It means more than you know.
5.Don't try to comfort with Religion.
This is a difficult one. Especially for those who have very strong faith. I know that I will see Emma again. I know that I will have the opportunity to raise her after the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. I know that she is doing great and marvelous work in the Spirit World. I know that my family is forever. However when my arms are empty, my breasts are full and my heart is broken, none of that matters. Please do not say, “Well, at least you know you'll see her again”. Do not ever say that. It is of very little comfort and at times just makes the person grieving angry. If they don't know those things, wait until the time permits and they bring it up. It would be appropriate to say that if they were to ask you your thoughts on life after death. Or, if they are struggling and wondering if they will see their baby again. These are good times to bring it up.
6.Stages of Grief are not Linear
This is really important. Don't expect people to go through the Stages of Grief in order. It doesn't work that way. I can tell you that I have often felt anger, denial, acceptance, bargaining all within an hour. Don't expect that your loved one will get to acceptance and be done with it. They may go right back into denial in a heartbeat. The stages also don't manifest one at a time in a nice linear fashion. They are all over the place, just as their grief is.
7.Be Forgiving.
I know that I said and did many things during the first year that were not kind. My family and friends very sweetly turned the other cheek and loved me anyway. Know that when someone loses their child, they are not thinking clearly. Their thoughts are dominated by those of their sweet children. They think of what their life could/would/and should have been like. Everything is about the child. Forgive them for things they may do to offend. They really don't realize it.
8.Help them.
Food, cabbage leaves, sage and parsley tea, clean apartment, help moving, laughter, tissues, memories. These are a few of the numerous things that people did to help us. One of my friends, who lives in Louisiana, called a local sandwich shop and had a platter of sandwiches, chips and soda delivered to our house. My father-in-law went to the grocery store and stocked up on cabbage leaves (for my aching, swollen, milk-filled breasts), tissues and new towels (for all the milk I was leaking). Our dear friends cleaned our apartment when we were gone burying Emma, and filled our refrigerator with food so we could eat something when we came back. My Mom and brother came out and helped us move to Utah to be near our baby. The same friends that cleaned our apartment before, cleaned it again after we moved and we got our full deposit back. My sister-in-law found out that sage and parsley would help to dry up my milk. All of these people sat with us and gave us reason to laugh again, let us cry, and let us just be.
9.Encourage
Encourage your loved to grieve in the way that works for them. For me, it was talking and writing. Whether it be a journal, a blog, or on a napkin, writing helped me. My Mom told me of one of her friends who, when her husband died, had a journal sitting in the living room. When different things happened, people could just pick up the journal and write in it. I am very grateful to have this. I couldn't dress Emma, so my Mom, Mother-in-law, sister and sister-in-law did it for me. To read their tender accounts of that experience helps to heal my broken heart. I am so grateful that they gave me that gift. Encourage your loved one through writing. Write down what is going on for them. Maybe they are not a writer, do it for them. Record this time, someday they will want to go back and read about it.
10.Love
I know this one goes without saying, but I am going to say it anyway. Love love love. Your loved one needs it more than ever right now.
I pray that no one ever has to go through this, but they do. More often than not, I am found by those who it has happened to. If you find yourself in this situation, print this off and give it to your loved ones so they can help you.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
How I'm Doing
Remember I told you all about my goals for this year? I told you that I want to be healthier and eat better? I told you that I wanted to stop yelling at my kids? Well, it's time to be accountable.
I have not had any refined sugar, animal products, or more than 1 C. of whole grains since January 2. In that time I have lost 10 lbs! YIPEE!!! I am now where I was before Thanksgiving. 16 more pounds and I'll be at my pre-pregnancy weight, which is where I really want to be by my birthday on February 11. At that time I will have sugar again (I really want some good cake or cupcakes or something yummy like that).
As for the yelling...well, I am doing better :) Baby steps right? Another goal I have is to play with my kids more and say yes a lot more often. So, right now Seth asked to play with me, so I said yes. I am going to get off the computer more and play a lot more.
Exhale.Return to Center.
Have you all noticed that I have a sponsor?? Yeah, she pretty much rocks the party. Her name is Erin Goodman and she is someone you should know.
I met Erin 5 years ago in a due date forum on Mothering.com. We were both pregnant and due at the same time, I with Seth; she with Lily. She always struck me as someone that I would love to hang out with. Just so open, honest and real. She is still the same way. We'd lost contact for a while until recently when I found her blog again.
She is really a breath of fresh air. Her blog, Exhale Return to Center, helps you to do just that. She is very inspiring. She and her children have adventures, they clean together, play together, and let go of anger together. I have learned so much about being a better Mother from her.
Not only is she a fabulous Mother, but she is also a writer and a yoga instructor! I know it, she just gets better and better! This last weekend she hosted a retreat for some very lucky women.
For four-and-a-half years, I have been dreaming of creating a space for mothers to retreat and relax and go inside and return to center.
She has done it! She is now offering workshops that will do just what she has been dreaming of. Time for yoga, writing, chocolate and tea. If you live in the Rhode Island area, be sure to register for this. It promises to be amazing, it promises to give you a chance to exhale. return to center.
If you don't live in the Rhode Island area, never fear! This year she and her hubby have plans to take it and another fun event (beer tasting and partner yoga class) on the road!! So, if you have a great mama-friendly yoga studio in your area, contact Erin at erin AT eringoodman DOT com.
Thank you Erin.
I met Erin 5 years ago in a due date forum on Mothering.com. We were both pregnant and due at the same time, I with Seth; she with Lily. She always struck me as someone that I would love to hang out with. Just so open, honest and real. She is still the same way. We'd lost contact for a while until recently when I found her blog again.
She is really a breath of fresh air. Her blog, Exhale Return to Center, helps you to do just that. She is very inspiring. She and her children have adventures, they clean together, play together, and let go of anger together. I have learned so much about being a better Mother from her.
Not only is she a fabulous Mother, but she is also a writer and a yoga instructor! I know it, she just gets better and better! This last weekend she hosted a retreat for some very lucky women.
For four-and-a-half years, I have been dreaming of creating a space for mothers to retreat and relax and go inside and return to center.
She has done it! She is now offering workshops that will do just what she has been dreaming of. Time for yoga, writing, chocolate and tea. If you live in the Rhode Island area, be sure to register for this. It promises to be amazing, it promises to give you a chance to exhale. return to center.
If you don't live in the Rhode Island area, never fear! This year she and her hubby have plans to take it and another fun event (beer tasting and partner yoga class) on the road!! So, if you have a great mama-friendly yoga studio in your area, contact Erin at erin AT eringoodman DOT com.
Thank you Erin.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
You've Got Questions...I've Got Answers!
Ok, so I guess I'm either not as much of a mystery as I thought, or just kind of boring because only 2 people had questions for me. No matter, a question is a question and I am happy to answer them!
First is from my irl friend, Bug Loving Mama. She says:
Ok, I'll bite. Two questions off the top of my head:
1. Why did you learn sign language?
2. How do you respond when people refer to LLL as "the boob nazis?"
1. I learned American Sign Language (ASL) starting when I was 6. I really didn't have a choice. My Mom had always been fascinated with the language and decided to take a class. My little brother and I were her captive audience, so we got to learn with her. So really, I've known it for as long as I can remember. However, it wasn't until I was in college and majoring in Deaf Education that I became fluent in the language. I decided that I didn't want to be a teacher, so I left school (big regret!) and became an interpreter instead. I loved interpreting and did it in a public school district for 2 1/2 years, until Emma was born. I have since taught parents to sign with their children and loved that also!
2. I actually get a little upset when anyone refers to La Leche League as anything with Nazi in the word. Nazis were really terrible people and did terrible things. I would never force anyone to breastfeed. While I know it is best and is best for me and my family, I am not about to force any of my beliefs or knowledge on another person -- or judge them because they don't think the same way I do.
I prefer someone call me a passionate -- I'll be a passionate breastfeeder -- I like that better than boob nazi ;)
And from Becky (a really fun girl by the way, go check out her awesome blog!)
Hmmm. You seem to embrace the attachment method of parenting. Would that be an accurate statement? Did you always want to parent like that? (Because I had all sorts of ideas before I actually had kids...) What are your top three rules of being a good mom?
Yes, I do embrace the Attachment Parenting method of parenting. Very nicely put. For those who are wondering what in the world Attachment Parenting (AP) is -- it is babywearing, extended breastfeeding, nursing on demand, gentle discipline, co-sleeping and lots of other great stuff ;) For me, it just makes sense. It is treating these little people like human beings and how I would want to be treated.
Did I always know I would parent like this? Well, yes and no. I always knew that I wouldn't spank or cry it out -- those things just seemed mean (and in my opinion nothing good comes of either). However, I never thought I'd co-sleep. I remember when I was pregnant with Emma, my 10 year old nephew came over and, looking at the crib, asked me what that was. I told him, "that is a crib, that is what babies are supposed to sleep in". Oh how I laugh at that girl. The night Emma came home from the hospital I had her in the bassinet and I couldn't sleep. I pulled her into our bed and the crib became a great place for storage. As for breastfeeding -- I always knew I'd do it, no question in my mind. I never put a time limit on it either. I embrace child-led weaning (with a wee bit of help from Mama sometimes).
My top three rules for parenting?
1. Treat them like I want to be treated -- like children of God.
2. Give them food. It doesn't matter if they just ate, if they're hungry, they're hungry!
3. Realize that they are each so different and what I did for one may not work for the other. Be flexible and everyone will be much happier.
Thanks for the questions girlies! If anyone else has questions, ask away!
First is from my irl friend, Bug Loving Mama. She says:
Ok, I'll bite. Two questions off the top of my head:
1. Why did you learn sign language?
2. How do you respond when people refer to LLL as "the boob nazis?"
1. I learned American Sign Language (ASL) starting when I was 6. I really didn't have a choice. My Mom had always been fascinated with the language and decided to take a class. My little brother and I were her captive audience, so we got to learn with her. So really, I've known it for as long as I can remember. However, it wasn't until I was in college and majoring in Deaf Education that I became fluent in the language. I decided that I didn't want to be a teacher, so I left school (big regret!) and became an interpreter instead. I loved interpreting and did it in a public school district for 2 1/2 years, until Emma was born. I have since taught parents to sign with their children and loved that also!
2. I actually get a little upset when anyone refers to La Leche League as anything with Nazi in the word. Nazis were really terrible people and did terrible things. I would never force anyone to breastfeed. While I know it is best and is best for me and my family, I am not about to force any of my beliefs or knowledge on another person -- or judge them because they don't think the same way I do.
I prefer someone call me a passionate -- I'll be a passionate breastfeeder -- I like that better than boob nazi ;)
And from Becky (a really fun girl by the way, go check out her awesome blog!)
Hmmm. You seem to embrace the attachment method of parenting. Would that be an accurate statement? Did you always want to parent like that? (Because I had all sorts of ideas before I actually had kids...) What are your top three rules of being a good mom?
Yes, I do embrace the Attachment Parenting method of parenting. Very nicely put. For those who are wondering what in the world Attachment Parenting (AP) is -- it is babywearing, extended breastfeeding, nursing on demand, gentle discipline, co-sleeping and lots of other great stuff ;) For me, it just makes sense. It is treating these little people like human beings and how I would want to be treated.
Did I always know I would parent like this? Well, yes and no. I always knew that I wouldn't spank or cry it out -- those things just seemed mean (and in my opinion nothing good comes of either). However, I never thought I'd co-sleep. I remember when I was pregnant with Emma, my 10 year old nephew came over and, looking at the crib, asked me what that was. I told him, "that is a crib, that is what babies are supposed to sleep in". Oh how I laugh at that girl. The night Emma came home from the hospital I had her in the bassinet and I couldn't sleep. I pulled her into our bed and the crib became a great place for storage. As for breastfeeding -- I always knew I'd do it, no question in my mind. I never put a time limit on it either. I embrace child-led weaning (with a wee bit of help from Mama sometimes).
My top three rules for parenting?
1. Treat them like I want to be treated -- like children of God.
2. Give them food. It doesn't matter if they just ate, if they're hungry, they're hungry!
3. Realize that they are each so different and what I did for one may not work for the other. Be flexible and everyone will be much happier.
Thanks for the questions girlies! If anyone else has questions, ask away!
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