I read recently that October is the season for the Mexican avocado crop (the Haas variety.) This is very exciting for me because I love avocados! Avocados are not only tasty, they are an excellent source of folate, fiber, and vitamin E. Avocados are also sodium- and cholesterol-free and have only five grams of fat per serving, most of it the monounsaturated kind.
I am including some of my favorite uses for avocado:
- Chop or mash up and add to sandwiches or wraps (BLTs, anything with turkey, ham, chicken) My friend, Sarah, once created a wrap with hard boiled egg, spinach, tomato, and avocado. This is one of my favorites to make.
- Add to any Mexican-like dish - on top of tacos or taco salad, burritos, enchiladas, rice and beans, etc.
- Make guacamole (Inspired by my friend, Jen S., I like one with mashed avocado, some salsa (or onions and tomatoes), Worcestershire sauce, lime juice, and a little salt and pepper)
- Dice up as a good finger food for babies and toddlers
Here are a few good recipes I’ve tried with avocado:
Avocado/Spinach Salad
Spinach leaves (sorry about all the spinach here – we may need to hold off on these)
Chopped avocado
Toasted walnuts
Feta cheese (can also use bleu cheese)
Note: I just play around with ingredients here depending on size of group and tastes. This dressing is fabulous and needs no dressing!!
Avocado Potato Salad
1/3 fresh lemon juice
2 t. garlic, finely chopped
¾ c. mayo
¼ c. olive oil
36 oz. Red new potatoes, cooked and diced
1 c. celery, diced
1 c. sweet onion, chopped
2 lbs. Avocados, diced
½ c. cilantro, chopped (another good, but sometimes acquired, flavor)
To make dressing, mix lemon juice and garlic; stir in mayo and oil and reserve. Combine potato, celery, and onion and then fold in reserved dressing. Just before serving, gently fold in avocado and cilantro and garnish with cilantro or celery leaves if desired.
Tropical Puree (for the babies in your life)
¼ cup plain yogurt or cottage cheese
½ ripe banana, mashed
½ ripe avocado, mashed
(Okay, so I haven’t actually tasted this one but Andrew liked it)
Any other avocado lovers out there? How do you like to eat it?
Thursday, September 28
How Can I Keep From Singing?
My Grandma Arlene died yesterday. She was only weeks away from 91 years old. What an amazing life she lived! Grandma Arlene married my Grandpa Steiner 32 years ago. He was her third husband (she outlived each one.) She had two biological children, 6 step-children, and many, many grandchildren as a result of her three marriages. Although my mom and her siblings were all adults when Arlene joined the family, they developed a very tight bond with her. I have many memories of Grandma Arlene. She is the only grandma I ever knew on my mother's side of the family.
My most vivid memories of Grandma were off her love for games, cooking and music. She spent many times with me as a young girl playing Rummy Cube and Rack-o and Skippo (as well as others.)Grandma was also known for her delicious cooking. She would hum as she worked. She was a gifted singer and had been in a trio with her two sisters as a younger woman. Grandma experienced much joy and pain throughout her life. When I think of her, the song "My Life Flows On," a Mennonite hymn comes to mind. The second verse reads, "Through all the tumult and the strife, I hear that music ringing. It finds an echo in my soul. How can I keep from singing?" That was Grandma. Forever positive, forever singing.
My most vivid memories of Grandma were off her love for games, cooking and music. She spent many times with me as a young girl playing Rummy Cube and Rack-o and Skippo (as well as others.)Grandma was also known for her delicious cooking. She would hum as she worked. She was a gifted singer and had been in a trio with her two sisters as a younger woman. Grandma experienced much joy and pain throughout her life. When I think of her, the song "My Life Flows On," a Mennonite hymn comes to mind. The second verse reads, "Through all the tumult and the strife, I hear that music ringing. It finds an echo in my soul. How can I keep from singing?" That was Grandma. Forever positive, forever singing.
Wednesday, September 27
Journaling, Part II
I started to comment back on the Journaling post and realized I was writing a book. So here's my followup to all of the great comments.
First of all, I think there are times in our lives when we operate at regular speed - meaning we do what needs to get done and maybe a little more. And then there are the "survival mode" times when we do what absolutely has to be done to keep all living beings in our household alive. Finally, there are fewer times when we can do all that and more. I see journaling (all forms, including scrapbooking) as fitting in that category. It's not always a priority and it shouldn't have to be. Women spend so much time making life worthwhile for their families that there isn't always time to do the "extras." While I love to read the anecdotes my mom recorded from my childhood, my favorite memories are the times she laid down with me before naps and played games with me. I would much rather my children look back and remember the time I spent with them. The clean house and fun scrapbooks and other mementos are just bonus... but not necessary.
I love the idea of writing letters to children on their birthdays. I also read recently about a woman who took a picture of her daughter every year in a woman-sized bathing suit (I like the dress shirt better.) The girl is now a teenager and she has this great progression of her life. Both are neat concepts depending on your interests.
I guess I'm still not settled about what to do with my journals some day. My mom had suggested years ago that I go through and destroy anything I don't want read. Too time consuming, I thought. There would really be little that is too personal to share with my children or husband. Yet I want to be sensitive to even that. I also think it would be fascinating if I could read records of my own mom's life had she done that as a teenager. I do really like the idea of writing a plan into our will. Perhaps my "Gayle" will be called to come into my house too someday to destroy my journals. :)
First of all, I think there are times in our lives when we operate at regular speed - meaning we do what needs to get done and maybe a little more. And then there are the "survival mode" times when we do what absolutely has to be done to keep all living beings in our household alive. Finally, there are fewer times when we can do all that and more. I see journaling (all forms, including scrapbooking) as fitting in that category. It's not always a priority and it shouldn't have to be. Women spend so much time making life worthwhile for their families that there isn't always time to do the "extras." While I love to read the anecdotes my mom recorded from my childhood, my favorite memories are the times she laid down with me before naps and played games with me. I would much rather my children look back and remember the time I spent with them. The clean house and fun scrapbooks and other mementos are just bonus... but not necessary.
I love the idea of writing letters to children on their birthdays. I also read recently about a woman who took a picture of her daughter every year in a woman-sized bathing suit (I like the dress shirt better.) The girl is now a teenager and she has this great progression of her life. Both are neat concepts depending on your interests.
I guess I'm still not settled about what to do with my journals some day. My mom had suggested years ago that I go through and destroy anything I don't want read. Too time consuming, I thought. There would really be little that is too personal to share with my children or husband. Yet I want to be sensitive to even that. I also think it would be fascinating if I could read records of my own mom's life had she done that as a teenager. I do really like the idea of writing a plan into our will. Perhaps my "Gayle" will be called to come into my house too someday to destroy my journals. :)
Tuesday, September 26
Journaling
One of the reasons I enjoy blogging so much is that it gives me a connection to people I love. The other reason is that it is an outlet for expressing myself. A public journal. I wouldn't write just anything here, but that's okay. I still have a lot to say that doesn't need to be private. :)
I have always enjoyed journaling. I started in 6th or 7th grade. I had received a pink journal with a kitty on the front as a gift. I journaled nearly every single night throughout junior high and high school. I absolutely love going back to the journals and reading what I wrote. In fact, Pete and I spent 45 minutes going through one of them together last evening. What an excellent and quite humorous record of my past life. Once in college, the journaling certainly decreased... probably due to a busier schedule, a more intense social life, living amongst friends with whom I could share, etc. There were times when I wouldn't write for months. There were others (during my SST experience in Costa Rica my sophomore year) when I did nearly daily entries again. I eventually stopped somewhere during those college years. I simply was burnt out. It started feeling like a task, a chore. It just wasn't meeting a need.
Since my early 20s, I have played around with gratitude journals, spiritual journals, journals about my kids. Some have stuck. Some come and go. Some were more meaningful than others. I think the important thing I've discovered is that I continue to enjoy what I'm doing. Sometimes it may be more therapeutic than fun and that's a good thing as well. Journaling can be a very effective tool for working through personal issues. There are so many ways to journal as well. If it begins to feel like a responsibility or a burden, that's when it is difficult to sustain.
I wonder what experiences others of you have had with journaling? For those of you who journal, what are your plans for loved ones and/or descendants reading them once you die? It sounds a little morbid, but they can be very intimate and I struggle with who should (if anyone) have access to them down the road...
I have always enjoyed journaling. I started in 6th or 7th grade. I had received a pink journal with a kitty on the front as a gift. I journaled nearly every single night throughout junior high and high school. I absolutely love going back to the journals and reading what I wrote. In fact, Pete and I spent 45 minutes going through one of them together last evening. What an excellent and quite humorous record of my past life. Once in college, the journaling certainly decreased... probably due to a busier schedule, a more intense social life, living amongst friends with whom I could share, etc. There were times when I wouldn't write for months. There were others (during my SST experience in Costa Rica my sophomore year) when I did nearly daily entries again. I eventually stopped somewhere during those college years. I simply was burnt out. It started feeling like a task, a chore. It just wasn't meeting a need.
Since my early 20s, I have played around with gratitude journals, spiritual journals, journals about my kids. Some have stuck. Some come and go. Some were more meaningful than others. I think the important thing I've discovered is that I continue to enjoy what I'm doing. Sometimes it may be more therapeutic than fun and that's a good thing as well. Journaling can be a very effective tool for working through personal issues. There are so many ways to journal as well. If it begins to feel like a responsibility or a burden, that's when it is difficult to sustain.
I wonder what experiences others of you have had with journaling? For those of you who journal, what are your plans for loved ones and/or descendants reading them once you die? It sounds a little morbid, but they can be very intimate and I struggle with who should (if anyone) have access to them down the road...
Sunday, September 24
My Hubster
The Hubster and I haven't been connecting as much lately. It's not that we're arguing a lot or anything... we just both are very busy and have lots on our minds. On evenings we are both home, by the time we get the kids to bed, we often go our own separate ways again. We are lucky if we get out by ourselves. We average once every few months. And the last several weekends have been very busy so we have not had much time together, nor have I had much time without the kids. The weekends are usually my chance to regroup, rest, and prepare for the week ahead.
This afternoon Andrew had a very difficult time napping. This is something that was often an issue with Emma but hasn't been as much with him. Well, after a long, busy weekend, his routine was all messed up and he was needing major sleep. And sometimes the more sleep a baby needs, the harder it is for the baby to settle. After each of us worked with him off and on for an hour, I found myself very frustrated. I could feel my blood pressure rising. For one, I really wanted him to get the sleep he needed. And also, I admit, I just wanted "my time" to relax and get some things done while both kids slept. I felt myself melting.
That's where my wonderful Hubster comes into play. He patiently listened to me melt and offered to take the baby somewhere in the house where I could not hear him. Shortly after that, Emma awoke and he offered to take them on a drive so I could have some time to myself and the baby could maybe sleep some more.
They were gone for 1 1/2 hours. What a gift. I watched the rest of a Dr. Phil, took a short nap, made oatmeal bread and carrot soup for dinner. Andrew only slept for 10 minutes on the drive, but I had the break I needed to feel refreshed for another week. And Pete recognized a need and acted on it. I felt truly heard and loved.
Some of you are familiar with the Love Languages (Gary Chapman has a book which I recommend.) My languages are quality time and acts of service. What Pete did today was such an act of service to me.
This afternoon Andrew had a very difficult time napping. This is something that was often an issue with Emma but hasn't been as much with him. Well, after a long, busy weekend, his routine was all messed up and he was needing major sleep. And sometimes the more sleep a baby needs, the harder it is for the baby to settle. After each of us worked with him off and on for an hour, I found myself very frustrated. I could feel my blood pressure rising. For one, I really wanted him to get the sleep he needed. And also, I admit, I just wanted "my time" to relax and get some things done while both kids slept. I felt myself melting.
That's where my wonderful Hubster comes into play. He patiently listened to me melt and offered to take the baby somewhere in the house where I could not hear him. Shortly after that, Emma awoke and he offered to take them on a drive so I could have some time to myself and the baby could maybe sleep some more.
They were gone for 1 1/2 hours. What a gift. I watched the rest of a Dr. Phil, took a short nap, made oatmeal bread and carrot soup for dinner. Andrew only slept for 10 minutes on the drive, but I had the break I needed to feel refreshed for another week. And Pete recognized a need and acted on it. I felt truly heard and loved.
Some of you are familiar with the Love Languages (Gary Chapman has a book which I recommend.) My languages are quality time and acts of service. What Pete did today was such an act of service to me.
All Boy
I'm not crazy about stereotypes. They are based on generalizations and assumptions that simply may not be accurate or fair. Sometimes they are down right ignorant and rude. But often there is some ounce of truth behind stereotypes which is why I believe they exist. That's why I title this "All Boy." As a parent, I am committed to not pushing my children into traditional gender roles, toys and activities.
The thing is that from the very beginning, Andrew seems to be much more drawn to trucks and balls than Emma ever has been (and yes, we introduced her to both of those at a young age.) Now granted is not quite 10 months old yet, so this all could change. However I have heard several friends comment that their boys just seem to be drawn toward these items. Emma, has always had a nurturing instinct to her. Perhaps it is genetic. Maybe it was learned because her main role model has been me. I just think it's fascinating to have one of each and be able to watch their interests progress.
So that all gets me to the title of this post. Andrew is everywhere these days. He's been crawling and pulling himself up for a couple of months and he is very curious about everything. Emma was definitely that way as well. In fact, in some ways she seems to have more energy... or maybe that's because she was our first child. The difference is, Andrew has been bumping into EVERYTHING! In the past three days, he has acquired five different marks on his face, all from various accidents. The first involved a nightstand and underneath his eye. This morning in the nursery he cut his nose on something. In each case, he is pulling himself up and exploring his world. Pete asked me yesterday if I thinks he is clumsy. No, I think he is all boy. There's got to be a reason that people use that phrase, right?
Friday, September 22
Super Emma
It's funny. In my former life (before my life as a SAHM), I was a social worker. One of my jobs was to work with young underadvantaged moms in a child abuse prevention program. I also did therapy with families and children as part of my MSW internship. In both of these roles, I helped parents process and work through parenting issues. I didn't have the experience as a mom so that sometimes put me at a disadvantage, but I had knowledge and skills and information as a social worker that could apply. Notice I never said I had the "answers." :)
Now I'm the parent. It would really be nice to have a home visitor sometimes who could come help me work through some of my parenting dilemmas... or just listen for that matter. I suppose that's where my sister, mom, many friends, and favorite parenting gurus (Dr. Sears, Dr. Harvey Karp, Dr. Phil) have come in to play.
The whole time I was anticipating my daughter's birth and experiencing her develop as an infant, I kept thinking about the teenage years. I know what it was like to be a teenage girl... and I think I was probably pretty easy to parent compared to some of my friends/acquaintances. But I know with all teens come hormones and attitudes and peer pressure and issues of dependence vs. independence. I kind of forgot that some of that stuff can start much earlier!!
So here I am trying to use some creative parenting with my 3 1/2 year-old. Sometimes I wish it were as easy as telling her politely to do something and her following through. And occasionally it is. But with a spirited, independent, (and I like to think intelligent) preschooler, it doesn't always happen that way. Again, my support network has given me some wonderful ideas to interact with Emma and this has been very helpful.
Right now one of the techniques co-created by Emma and me is called "Super Emma." Well, we didn't really create it - it just developed into that. Here's an example:
Me: (talking to "myself) "Oh, man. I really could use help with ________."
You can then see Emma's eyes brighten as she pretends to put on her superhero cape (with sound effects and all) and "flies" to whatever it is. It's done rapidly, all with an excited smile on her face as though she picked up on a need all on her own without being asked.
Of course, this is followed up with surprised gratitude. "Wow. Oh, Emma. Thank you so much."
I was remembering today how much I hated being asked to do things sometimes by my mom. I clearly remember just wanting to beat her to it. I was a pleaser and I was always so disappointed when I felt like she had made a request of me before I could surprise and please her. I wonder if Emma is like that a little now and will be like that as she gets older. It'll be interesting to see how my parenting techniques have to evolve with time to continue to fit both my expectations and her needs.
Now I'm the parent. It would really be nice to have a home visitor sometimes who could come help me work through some of my parenting dilemmas... or just listen for that matter. I suppose that's where my sister, mom, many friends, and favorite parenting gurus (Dr. Sears, Dr. Harvey Karp, Dr. Phil) have come in to play.
The whole time I was anticipating my daughter's birth and experiencing her develop as an infant, I kept thinking about the teenage years. I know what it was like to be a teenage girl... and I think I was probably pretty easy to parent compared to some of my friends/acquaintances. But I know with all teens come hormones and attitudes and peer pressure and issues of dependence vs. independence. I kind of forgot that some of that stuff can start much earlier!!
So here I am trying to use some creative parenting with my 3 1/2 year-old. Sometimes I wish it were as easy as telling her politely to do something and her following through. And occasionally it is. But with a spirited, independent, (and I like to think intelligent) preschooler, it doesn't always happen that way. Again, my support network has given me some wonderful ideas to interact with Emma and this has been very helpful.
Right now one of the techniques co-created by Emma and me is called "Super Emma." Well, we didn't really create it - it just developed into that. Here's an example:
Me: (talking to "myself) "Oh, man. I really could use help with ________."
You can then see Emma's eyes brighten as she pretends to put on her superhero cape (with sound effects and all) and "flies" to whatever it is. It's done rapidly, all with an excited smile on her face as though she picked up on a need all on her own without being asked.
Of course, this is followed up with surprised gratitude. "Wow. Oh, Emma. Thank you so much."
I was remembering today how much I hated being asked to do things sometimes by my mom. I clearly remember just wanting to beat her to it. I was a pleaser and I was always so disappointed when I felt like she had made a request of me before I could surprise and please her. I wonder if Emma is like that a little now and will be like that as she gets older. It'll be interesting to see how my parenting techniques have to evolve with time to continue to fit both my expectations and her needs.
Thursday, September 21
What A Night!
I have been looking forward to this evening for months!! Tonight is the season premiere of Grey's Anatomy. Who will Meredith choose? Ah, she kind of got on my nerves last season. I'm really more interested in seeing if Izzie returns... Oh, I can't wait... And to top the evening off, my second favorite show, The Office, is premiering as well! Can't wait to see if Jim and Pam get together. Isn't it great to be excited by such simple things?!
Help
I love this. I have a question and need feedback... I go to my blog!
I need help with all my child's lovely artwork. There's pictures created at home, crafts from preschool, Sunday School and now FAB (a new mid-week activity at our church.) I'm trying to get some organizing done and these creations are just piling up.
It used to not be so difficult. The really unique pieces or "firsts" (ex. first drawing of a person) went on the wall in the kitchen, on a fridge, in a memory file, or to a relative. But now there are so many!!!! What do I keep? What do I post? What can I toss without feeling that tinge of guilt? Any suggestions from you experienced parents, grandparents, aunts, teachers, other random persons reading?
I need help with all my child's lovely artwork. There's pictures created at home, crafts from preschool, Sunday School and now FAB (a new mid-week activity at our church.) I'm trying to get some organizing done and these creations are just piling up.
It used to not be so difficult. The really unique pieces or "firsts" (ex. first drawing of a person) went on the wall in the kitchen, on a fridge, in a memory file, or to a relative. But now there are so many!!!! What do I keep? What do I post? What can I toss without feeling that tinge of guilt? Any suggestions from you experienced parents, grandparents, aunts, teachers, other random persons reading?
Wednesday, September 20
Food, Food, Food
I don't have much to say today. I'm not sure I can sustain this daily entry thing I've started. There may be days you just don't hear from me. Other days you may hear from me more than once.
What's really on my mind today is food. I think it's the cool weather or being stuck at home all day. I don't know but I just love food. I ate a good lunch but as soon as I got the kids in bed for naps, I found myself scrounging around the kitchen. I ate some pumpkin bread. I don't feel too badly about that because it was an extra healthy recipe (from Simply in Season.) The more I am at home, the more I want to eat. Evenings are the absolute worst. Around 9pm, I just crave some sort of snack. Sure, I reach for a healthy snack sometimes but it just doesn't always cut it. I'm envious of my friends with such self-control. One girlfriend just doesn't eat after 7 pm and says if she does, she makes sure it's a protein of some sort. I'm sure a lot of you out there are self-disciplined and stay out of the kitchen after dinner. How do you do it?? Seriously...
Perhaps there's a greater issue here... habit, boredom, who knows. And maybe it's not really a big deal (although dessert night after night at 9pm is a big deal to me.) I do want to be healthy and model that to my family. But I want to have fun too and enjoy life. Any wise words out there?
What's really on my mind today is food. I think it's the cool weather or being stuck at home all day. I don't know but I just love food. I ate a good lunch but as soon as I got the kids in bed for naps, I found myself scrounging around the kitchen. I ate some pumpkin bread. I don't feel too badly about that because it was an extra healthy recipe (from Simply in Season.) The more I am at home, the more I want to eat. Evenings are the absolute worst. Around 9pm, I just crave some sort of snack. Sure, I reach for a healthy snack sometimes but it just doesn't always cut it. I'm envious of my friends with such self-control. One girlfriend just doesn't eat after 7 pm and says if she does, she makes sure it's a protein of some sort. I'm sure a lot of you out there are self-disciplined and stay out of the kitchen after dinner. How do you do it?? Seriously...
Perhaps there's a greater issue here... habit, boredom, who knows. And maybe it's not really a big deal (although dessert night after night at 9pm is a big deal to me.) I do want to be healthy and model that to my family. But I want to have fun too and enjoy life. Any wise words out there?
Tuesday, September 19
My Girlfriends
Friendships are so important to me. I just live for time when I can talk to or be with my girlfriends. Unfortunately, this just doesn't always happen as much as I'd like. As a stay-at-home mom you'd think I have more opportunities to connect with friends than I did when I was working outside the home. I do in many ways. But there's often an attachment or a distraction. Phone calls during the day usually become more stressful than enjoyable because my oldest is determined to have my undivided attention. Playdates often still involve a lot of parent interaction. And social functions with the family... well, that's just a joke sometimes. I always have an eye on one or both children. So I love when those phone calls go uninterrupted. I do enjoy playdates and social functions, but outings alone with friends are really ideal when I want to actually connect with a friend.
Not one friend meets all of my needs, nor do I for any one friend. I value what each of the women in my life bring to the table. Two different friends recently told me that they appreciate our friendship because they learn new things from me (not sure if those things are necessarily good :) ) and one said she likes friends who "challenge" her. Isn't that the truth? Those are two things I definitely appreciate in my friendships. The whole thing about friendship is that it is a reciprical relationship. We learn from each other. We listen and empathize with one another, while challenging each other to grow. We can laugh and have fun. We can share similarities and accept each other's differences.
I have had many friends in my life. Some of us have drifted apart and others will always be a part of my world. All of them have contributed to who I am today. So thank you, friends, for who you are to me.
Not one friend meets all of my needs, nor do I for any one friend. I value what each of the women in my life bring to the table. Two different friends recently told me that they appreciate our friendship because they learn new things from me (not sure if those things are necessarily good :) ) and one said she likes friends who "challenge" her. Isn't that the truth? Those are two things I definitely appreciate in my friendships. The whole thing about friendship is that it is a reciprical relationship. We learn from each other. We listen and empathize with one another, while challenging each other to grow. We can laugh and have fun. We can share similarities and accept each other's differences.
I have had many friends in my life. Some of us have drifted apart and others will always be a part of my world. All of them have contributed to who I am today. So thank you, friends, for who you are to me.
Monday, September 18
The Price of Independence
There's nothing like walking into your bathroom and stepping in a huge puddle of pee (urine, for those of you who prefer that term.) Let me back up. Emma has always been pretty independent-minded, starting from the time she showed up 12 days late and took 18 hours to emerge from my body. It's not that she has always wanted to do things on her own or by herself, but she certainly likes to call the shots. We've worked through lots of power struggles. For the most part, it's fun to see her develop her own little personality and zest for new experiences. She doesn't blink an eye at new situations like preschool and is happiest when she can have some say in daily decisions. Some of you know she picks out her clothes without help most days and it occasionally shows!!
Yesterday she informed me during church that she wanted to go up to children's time all by herself - "no mom or dad!" When it came time, she did her little "Chris Farley walk" (a good friend once very accurately described it to me as this) and sat down in the front. She did an excellent job. Later on in the service, she requested to go out and get a drink on her own. Once again, she made the CF strut to the fountain, got a drink, and returned to her seat. It's been my experience that in return for her independence, we see a better behaved child.
All that to say that Emma is generally very good at using the potty herself. She has never liked to be told when to go or try to go, but has done awesome when left to decide on her own. I knew she was going today before naptime. In fact, she came looking for me (I was putting Andrew to bed) and announced that she hadn't wiped well enough and therefore had changed her underwear (nice visual, huh?) I suppose the part she omitted was that she decided to try to empty her little potty from earlier this morning and it didn't make it into the toilet. I can't help but still feel proud of my little girl's independence. Guess I should go scrub the floor...
Yesterday she informed me during church that she wanted to go up to children's time all by herself - "no mom or dad!" When it came time, she did her little "Chris Farley walk" (a good friend once very accurately described it to me as this) and sat down in the front. She did an excellent job. Later on in the service, she requested to go out and get a drink on her own. Once again, she made the CF strut to the fountain, got a drink, and returned to her seat. It's been my experience that in return for her independence, we see a better behaved child.
All that to say that Emma is generally very good at using the potty herself. She has never liked to be told when to go or try to go, but has done awesome when left to decide on her own. I knew she was going today before naptime. In fact, she came looking for me (I was putting Andrew to bed) and announced that she hadn't wiped well enough and therefore had changed her underwear (nice visual, huh?) I suppose the part she omitted was that she decided to try to empty her little potty from earlier this morning and it didn't make it into the toilet. I can't help but still feel proud of my little girl's independence. Guess I should go scrub the floor...
Rain, Rain, Go Away
More rain today. I know I should be grateful but it's really hard to feel that way when you're home with two little ones. We have a playgroup scheduled today... contingent upon nice weather. This is the second time it's been scheduled and the second time it rained. That's frustrating... Anyway, remember that post about loving fall? Well, I do, but I like it especially when the sun in shining. :) I like to be able to get out with the kids at least sometime during the day and run around or take a walk or swing. And today I'm really hoping it clears up by 11 so we can hang out with our friends.
Sunday, September 17
Mmmm... Soup
For the last couple of years, it has been my goal to make a pot of soup once a week during the fall and winter months. There are just so many soups that I love to eat and always ones I want to try. It's such a cozy food during the cooler weather. Perhaps I'll share my favorite soup recipes with you this fall on my site. If you have any recipes you recommend, I would love for you to share them.
I think this evening I will prepare Butternut Squash Bisque, a recipe recently shared with me by my friend, Lesley. I had it at her place last winter and it was so tasty. I also have the ingredients for my favorite carrot soup on hand. That one will probably be next week's soup. Here's the recipe:
Spicy Carrot Peanut Soup
1 T. olive oil
1 large onion
2 lbs. carrots, thinly sliced (about 6 cups)
1 celery stalk
2 cloves garlic
Saute above ingredients for 5 minutes. Add 6 c. water (I do half water and half chicken or vegie broth.) Boil and simmer until soft (about 25 minutes.) Stir in 2 T. peanut butter, 3 T. soy sauce, 2 T. lime juice. Blenderize and serve.
Hope you enjoy as much as we do!
I think this evening I will prepare Butternut Squash Bisque, a recipe recently shared with me by my friend, Lesley. I had it at her place last winter and it was so tasty. I also have the ingredients for my favorite carrot soup on hand. That one will probably be next week's soup. Here's the recipe:
Spicy Carrot Peanut Soup
1 T. olive oil
1 large onion
2 lbs. carrots, thinly sliced (about 6 cups)
1 celery stalk
2 cloves garlic
Saute above ingredients for 5 minutes. Add 6 c. water (I do half water and half chicken or vegie broth.) Boil and simmer until soft (about 25 minutes.) Stir in 2 T. peanut butter, 3 T. soy sauce, 2 T. lime juice. Blenderize and serve.
Hope you enjoy as much as we do!
Game Day
For those of you following the Notre Dame postings, they lost horribly yesterday. Many of you probably know that already. They didn't play well and Michigan smashed them 47-21. I made it through the first half with the kids and then had to turn it off. There was dinner to be made, children to entertain, bathe, and put to bed. Anyway, their loss was disappointing.
I took some time to record several cute/funny statements Emma made during that first half of the game:
I took some time to record several cute/funny statements Emma made during that first half of the game:
- "Mom, now which one is the caddy?" (can you tell Pete watched a lot of golf this summer?)
- Pointing to each player on the screen and aware that Dad was somewhere at the game, "That's my daddy. That's my daddy. That's my daddy."
- After Michigan scored their third touchdown, I was expressing my disappointment. "Don't worry, Mom. I'll cover it up for you," as she runs to the TV and covers the screen with her arms. "There. Now you can't see it." Wish it were that simple.
- After a tackle in which about 8 players were piled on each other, Emma exclaims, "Oh no! They all fell down!"
After all, it is just a game. And games are supposed to be fun. :)
Saturday, September 16
Lil' Irish
That last post brought back memories of a journal entry of mine last November. She would have been 2 1/2. Read on...
November 12, 2005
This fall Daddy has really been encouraging Emma to get excited about Notre Dame football with him. At the beginning of the season he came home with matching t-shirts for the two of us and a blue Darius Walker (#3) jersey for Emma. We often would dress her in the jersey for their Saturday games or at least put it on when she was awake for games. One day a few weeks ago, she walked up to the TV and put her body right up to Walker, saying, "Look! We match!"
Well, today, she awoke from her nap (from her new big girl bed) and waltzed downstairs all on her own to find Daddy watching the game. (I was down here on the computer.) As soon as she saw what Dad was watching, she ran off, saying, "I gotta go get something! I gotta get my team!" I followed her upstairs to find her searching for her ND jersey. I think Dad’s mission is accomplished!!
November 12, 2005
This fall Daddy has really been encouraging Emma to get excited about Notre Dame football with him. At the beginning of the season he came home with matching t-shirts for the two of us and a blue Darius Walker (#3) jersey for Emma. We often would dress her in the jersey for their Saturday games or at least put it on when she was awake for games. One day a few weeks ago, she walked up to the TV and put her body right up to Walker, saying, "Look! We match!"
Well, today, she awoke from her nap (from her new big girl bed) and waltzed downstairs all on her own to find Daddy watching the game. (I was down here on the computer.) As soon as she saw what Dad was watching, she ran off, saying, "I gotta go get something! I gotta get my team!" I followed her upstairs to find her searching for her ND jersey. I think Dad’s mission is accomplished!!
Football Schmutball
Football season is here. My second Saturday in a
row alone with the kids because my hubby is at a game (this week it's ND; last week he was in Green Bay for a Packers game.) I used to get really annoyed, maybe even a little jealous. Once the season started, I felt like I took a backseat to these men in helmets and jerseys. The thing is - it was never that bad and I think we've both gotten better. I crave alone time more than I ever did before we had children so I don't mind the games as much. And he is really good about putting the family first and his love for football second. Well, usually. :)
We have officially become Notre Dame fans though. I've always kind of liked them - even when I lived in PA (sorry Nittany Lions.) Pete was a closet fan for a few years and officially came out about 3 years ago. It was so liberating for him.. and me. Now we sport our t-shirts and talk with pride about the Irish. Pete logs on to ND sites and chat rooms every evening and reads every article that even remotely mentions Notre Dame. I took the kids on a ND flag-counting walk around the subdivision today - we counted 20. It really is quite fun living in a college town (okay, so this isn't South Bend but Granger is full of Irish fans.) The spirit is just in the air every Saturday morning. I love to head into Granger to the grocery store or post office where everyone is wearing their gear. It's especially fun to dress up the kids. We get lots of comments. (Is my loneliness and need for adult contact obvious??)
I still don't fully understand the game of football. I don't really pay attention well enough to fully grasp all of the plays and rules. To be honest, I've always enjoyed socializing more than watching games, ever since high school days. But it's still fun to hear the crowds and cheer them on. And how can I not enjoy something with which my husband is completely obsessed?
Game starts in 45 minutes. Guess I should go turn it on...
row alone with the kids because my hubby is at a game (this week it's ND; last week he was in Green Bay for a Packers game.) I used to get really annoyed, maybe even a little jealous. Once the season started, I felt like I took a backseat to these men in helmets and jerseys. The thing is - it was never that bad and I think we've both gotten better. I crave alone time more than I ever did before we had children so I don't mind the games as much. And he is really good about putting the family first and his love for football second. Well, usually. :)
We have officially become Notre Dame fans though. I've always kind of liked them - even when I lived in PA (sorry Nittany Lions.) Pete was a closet fan for a few years and officially came out about 3 years ago. It was so liberating for him.. and me. Now we sport our t-shirts and talk with pride about the Irish. Pete logs on to ND sites and chat rooms every evening and reads every article that even remotely mentions Notre Dame. I took the kids on a ND flag-counting walk around the subdivision today - we counted 20. It really is quite fun living in a college town (okay, so this isn't South Bend but Granger is full of Irish fans.) The spirit is just in the air every Saturday morning. I love to head into Granger to the grocery store or post office where everyone is wearing their gear. It's especially fun to dress up the kids. We get lots of comments. (Is my loneliness and need for adult contact obvious??)
I still don't fully understand the game of football. I don't really pay attention well enough to fully grasp all of the plays and rules. To be honest, I've always enjoyed socializing more than watching games, ever since high school days. But it's still fun to hear the crowds and cheer them on. And how can I not enjoy something with which my husband is completely obsessed?
Game starts in 45 minutes. Guess I should go turn it on...
Friday, September 15
Fall
I love fall. It's such a refreshing time of the year. I love that it's not too hot or too cold (usually.) I adore the crisp feel and smell of the air. The leaves are so pretty turning colors. I realize as I get older that I am drawn toward fall colors - reds, oranges, browns. They feel like such strong colors to me.
I think one reason I enjoy fall so much is that I have so many positive memories associated with this time of year. As a student, I was always so excited to go back to school. I loved my friends and I knew school meant I would see them on a regular basis. I loved the busyness of all of my activities and going to football and soccer games. I also have such fond memories of playing field hockey. (Any easterners out there?) I played for five years with some of my very best friends. It was such a satisfying feeling to be part of a team - to work hard and have fun. I truly love the sport and while I would not hold up on the field anymore (not that I was ever a star or anything), I really wonder sometimes why I let myself end up in Indiana. They simply don't have the sport. What in the world?! A pick-up game would be fun, but perhaps too challenging for me 13 years later. But just to go watch a high school game or to know Emma could play later on... that would be nice.
I think one reason I enjoy fall so much is that I have so many positive memories associated with this time of year. As a student, I was always so excited to go back to school. I loved my friends and I knew school meant I would see them on a regular basis. I loved the busyness of all of my activities and going to football and soccer games. I also have such fond memories of playing field hockey. (Any easterners out there?) I played for five years with some of my very best friends. It was such a satisfying feeling to be part of a team - to work hard and have fun. I truly love the sport and while I would not hold up on the field anymore (not that I was ever a star or anything), I really wonder sometimes why I let myself end up in Indiana. They simply don't have the sport. What in the world?! A pick-up game would be fun, but perhaps too challenging for me 13 years later. But just to go watch a high school game or to know Emma could play later on... that would be nice.
Thursday, September 14
My Favorite Part of the Day
Pete and I have had a bedtime routine with Emma since she was about four months old. It started with a bath, a bedtime story, nursing and rocking for a few songs as we listened to a CD. It's changed with time... we added teeth brushing, phased out nursing, held her hand through the crib instead of rocking. Now that she's 3 1/2, it's evolved to bath (a few times a week), play a game, potty, pjs, brush teeth, read a book, and lay down with her for two songs in her bed (we take turns, of course.) Yes, it's a lengthy process and it sometimes needs to be altered. But we really enjoy the special time it gives us with her at the end of a busy day. I truly believe children are not meant to be pushed into independence too early. This routine gives her structure and predictability, but still allows her to be a child.
While we lay beside her and listen to the CD, we always ask Emma about her favorite part of the day. A common answer is "having Daddy home." On Tuesday her response was, "going to preschool" - her first day. She then always asks us the question in return. After that, we say a prayer together.
I think asking Emma about her favorite part of the day is not only teaching her thankfulness and how to reflect on the day, it's also a reminder to me of how I can be grateful. So I'd like to share with you my favorite parts of today:
- Mowing the lawn while Emma was at preschool and Andrew napped. 30+ minutes of exercise and solitude! And one chore marked off my to-do list!
- Playing ball in the yard with Emma this evening.
- Reading Andrew "Goodnight Moon" before bed tonight. He giggles as I read the words and point to the pictures. It is so dang cute!
- Nursing and snuggling with Andrew before bed.
- Playing UNO with Pete and Emma.
Life is good...
While we lay beside her and listen to the CD, we always ask Emma about her favorite part of the day. A common answer is "having Daddy home." On Tuesday her response was, "going to preschool" - her first day. She then always asks us the question in return. After that, we say a prayer together.
I think asking Emma about her favorite part of the day is not only teaching her thankfulness and how to reflect on the day, it's also a reminder to me of how I can be grateful. So I'd like to share with you my favorite parts of today:
- Mowing the lawn while Emma was at preschool and Andrew napped. 30+ minutes of exercise and solitude! And one chore marked off my to-do list!
- Playing ball in the yard with Emma this evening.
- Reading Andrew "Goodnight Moon" before bed tonight. He giggles as I read the words and point to the pictures. It is so dang cute!
- Nursing and snuggling with Andrew before bed.
- Playing UNO with Pete and Emma.
Life is good...
The Beginning
Well, here it is. My first blog entry ever. I was inspired to do this by my dear friend, Sarah. I figured if I'm so addicted to reading her blog, I might as well begin my own. I don't really know how exciting this will be for those reading it. I certainly don't consider myself much of an entertainer. But if nothing else, I'm fulfilling a need I have - to talk (write) about things in my life to someone other than children. Should be fun...
