Joys of parenting
I put Harry to bed all by myself last night! I don’t think this was exactly the first time ever, but it has been the first time Harry has been aware of it! Kevin chose to work late to make up for some PTO he took when Harry was sick. The day seemed kind of surreal to me. I had encouraged Kevin to work late if he needed to. Now that Harry doesn’t require me to carry him at all times, my body can endure the solo childcare. Harry can even entertain himself for brief periods, which he did while I fixed his dinner. One added caviat, I had to give him his medicine. It really is something awful. The look of betrayal in his eyes as tears roll down his face and he gives in to the madness…anyway, after dinner we watched some Sesame Street (we successfully got him hooked on that. Now we need to find some indoor winter activities instead! I am thinking after dinner music hour) and had a quick bath. I think Harry was cold so he didn’t stay in long. I remember not wanting to get a bath in winter when I was a kid. Cold! As 7:30 rolled around, Harry did not want to get into his crib. Since every other night he goes willingly, I didn’t want to traumatize the wee lad, so I let him find Bailey for one final goodnight hug, and then we called Daddy to see where he was. Harry just wanted to hear his voice. He spent the next hour calmly sitting on my lap on the chair in his room and holding my phone. When he was ready, around 8:00, he handed me the phone and expressed that it was time for bed. The quiet time was priceless! Harry has never been so cuddly…at least not until he started watching television. Now he seems to enjoy having one of us hold him that much more..at least for watching Sesame Street or reading stories. See, TV is not all bad!
Journaling the last month before Harry's arrival into the world, and wherever that takes us.
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Monday, November 28, 2005
Sunday, November 27, 2005
Round One of the 2005 Holiday Season is behind us.
We finally left our home at 11:36 AM on Thursday on our way to New Jersey. We sat through two renditions of Alice's Restaurant and roughly 5 hours of traffic. The worst part of the traffic: by the time we hit Maryland House we worried that we missed Pierre. We did not. He was on until 3. We did indeed receive our warm welcome home.
Thanksgiving at April's was tasty. Harry got to play with Belle and Dominic and we got to share time with our loved ones. We headed home once Harry got sleepy. Traffic on the way back was nearly non-existant, but the winds were mighty. I was actually a bit worried crossing the bridges. Our leaves were in a neat windblown pile when we got home.
Friday was Tofurkey Day. After a run with Tara and a trip to Starbuck's with Tara and H, I headed home to prepare a second day of feasting. Tofurkey, Fresh Cranberry Sauce, Hot Cider...My mom and Allen came down for the day. Bryan & Anna swung by with Patrick. Lola, Amber and Sir Lance-a-little joined us and we enjoyed cocktails with Dan, Janie and Tara. A relaxing evening.
Saturday was Little Gym. More of the kids seemed cranky then not. I suppose Harry wasn't the only one that had had a long week. I worried when he sneezed on AJ, since AJ's dad is the quietest of the parents, but his surprisingly friendly response was 'Don't worry, it's nothing he doesn't already have!" I like The Little Gym!
The remainder of the weekend was spent as a family, mostly at home except for a quick shopping trip and a haircut for the little man, as well as a mental health excursion for Bailey. We actually had time to unpack some boxes and loosen up a little. Harry helped Kevin rake leaves while I hung up some white holiday lights. We seem to be the first on our block to have decorated. Hopefully not the last. Holiday cards are completed through M. Waiting for 12/1 to get them out.
Check out the new blog at http://blogmommyblog.blogspot.com/
I think this first one kind of sucks, but I was actually pretty nervous about writing it. Feel free to make suggestions for more exciting blogs! Maybe I can write about teh endless supply of Sesame Street dialogue and songs that run through my head. Scram, You're Fired!
We finally left our home at 11:36 AM on Thursday on our way to New Jersey. We sat through two renditions of Alice's Restaurant and roughly 5 hours of traffic. The worst part of the traffic: by the time we hit Maryland House we worried that we missed Pierre. We did not. He was on until 3. We did indeed receive our warm welcome home.
Thanksgiving at April's was tasty. Harry got to play with Belle and Dominic and we got to share time with our loved ones. We headed home once Harry got sleepy. Traffic on the way back was nearly non-existant, but the winds were mighty. I was actually a bit worried crossing the bridges. Our leaves were in a neat windblown pile when we got home.
Friday was Tofurkey Day. After a run with Tara and a trip to Starbuck's with Tara and H, I headed home to prepare a second day of feasting. Tofurkey, Fresh Cranberry Sauce, Hot Cider...My mom and Allen came down for the day. Bryan & Anna swung by with Patrick. Lola, Amber and Sir Lance-a-little joined us and we enjoyed cocktails with Dan, Janie and Tara. A relaxing evening.
Saturday was Little Gym. More of the kids seemed cranky then not. I suppose Harry wasn't the only one that had had a long week. I worried when he sneezed on AJ, since AJ's dad is the quietest of the parents, but his surprisingly friendly response was 'Don't worry, it's nothing he doesn't already have!" I like The Little Gym!
The remainder of the weekend was spent as a family, mostly at home except for a quick shopping trip and a haircut for the little man, as well as a mental health excursion for Bailey. We actually had time to unpack some boxes and loosen up a little. Harry helped Kevin rake leaves while I hung up some white holiday lights. We seem to be the first on our block to have decorated. Hopefully not the last. Holiday cards are completed through M. Waiting for 12/1 to get them out.
Check out the new blog at http://blogmommyblog.blogspot.com/
I think this first one kind of sucks, but I was actually pretty nervous about writing it. Feel free to make suggestions for more exciting blogs! Maybe I can write about teh endless supply of Sesame Street dialogue and songs that run through my head. Scram, You're Fired!
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
MOM
Strange as it may seem, I am still not comfortable with the word mom. I still don't feel like a mom. I think Kevin feels more like one than I do. Perhaps this is because he takes on more of the traditional mom roles while I take on less. I am not saying that Kevin takes on more parenting duties than I do, though some may argue the case. I think we share things very equally, in a seesaw fashion. Sometimes I do more (no need to smirk), sometimes he does more. I worry that he does more far too often. As I am writing this, I am beginning to think that I am an idiot. I am sure I am not the first woman to realize this, though it often seems this way. Kevin and I both work. We both pay bills. We both have identities of our own. We both contributed equally to Harry's DNA. Why shouldn't we share the joys and responsibilities of parenting Harry equally? I think this is why the word "Mom" gets to me so much. When I read books, magazines, blogs…I identify with "Dad" a lot more. I think a lot of Dad articles are more balanced, and they so often discuss the judgments that are passed their way. I feel like the word Dad entails a lot more balance. It is assumed if you are a dad you spend time away from your child, that you have a job and responsibilities and downtime…and other interests. The impression I get of the word mom is that you are never away from your child. EVER! If you are, there must be a VERY GOOD reason why. Perhaps your husband was laid off and you must reluctantly leave the home to find gainful employment. Perhaps a highly qualified nanny is supervising a well suited playdate while you run to the supermarket for supplies. Perhaps a grandparent dropped in so you could have 30 minutes to yourself. Moms know everything and decide everything for their child, even if Dad has a better option or logic would say to do something differently. The reality is, sometimes what is best for your child is NOT being with them every second of the day. When I run into people at Starbucks, or a new trainer at the gym asks where Harry is or who takes care of him when I travel, they are often taken aback that he is at daycare or that Kevin takes care if him. I was flying home first class from Florida the other day. There happened to be FOUR women in first class with me. This NEVER happens. The woman next to me (they didn't even space us out!) also had young children and traveled a lot. She didn't once ask who was watching Harry. We discussed how lucky our kids were to have two parents actively involved in their lives. We discussed how much we valued our time together and the fun little things we do for them when we are away (so far, I select Harry's clothes for the days I am gone and chat with him on the phone, but I look forward to the days when I can leave him happy notes or little surprises or fax homework corrections). We also discussed how great it is that they have other people in their lives, such as daycare providers or school chums that they can interact with and learn from. Some people actually ask why he doesn't have a nanny. Well, several reasons, none of which include the cost:
1. I did not want Harry alone with 1 person all day in case something happened to the person either through injury while she was with Harry or that she didn't show up for work one day, or that 1 person alone, unsupervised, could harm Harry.
2. I wanted Harry to be around other children in a casual, playful, learning environment.
3. I cannot work with Harry in the house because I want to play with him when he is there.
4. I don't want him in a car with anyone just yet.
5. I am sure there are others, but I cannot remember them all.
So, while I am in fact a mom, and a pretty good one at that, I feel the word is so limiting. I feel the choices I make are all in Harry's best interests. SOme may say I am kidding myself, but I say, take a look at your own world and see if yours is working as well before judging mine. I think it is good for him to see two people, or three people and a dog, work together as a team. I think it is important for him to see that people are not limited to certain pre-defined roles. I think it is important to not just "mother" Harry, but to let other people have an influence on his life, so that he may learn other cultures, other ways of doing things, other ways of seeing things. I don't think Harry should do everything the same way I do. I look forward to open discussions about so many topics as he gets older. I will surely be one of those parents that stops everything to look something up (and by look up I mean Google it). I feel that my role in Harry's life is to provide him the proper tools to become his own person. Once again, I hope this experiment works better than it did with Bailey! I could not be happier that Harry has a father who is more than someone who writes checks and throws a ball. No disrespect to fathers out there who did little more than show up at 5:30 to instill discipline- things were very different until recently. I am pretty sure that Kevin is the person Harry goes to when he is REALLY scared, sad, not feeling well. I seem to still be the good cop though, and can handle the minor bumps and bruises in Harry's eyes. I think at least one reason this has happened is because Kevin is the sleep whisperer. He is the one that puts Harry to bed in the middle of the night. He is the one that is the "expert" on whether we can pick him up if he is crying. Kevin's expertise in this area can bug me a little, but I know I am gone sometimes, and also afraid of the dark, so I let this one slide, and I instead focus on the things that are mine, like our morning wake-up routine, or our time together after school. I am also looking forward to the 3 days I will be alone with him after Yule while Menike is off yet again. I felt a bit guilty that I left for a business trip while Harry was sick, but I remind myself that I am with a new company that I have done very little for so far, but should benefit me in the long run. I don't need to remind myself that Kevin is very capable. I can take my turn as nursemaid when I get home. I think the guilt comes not from worrying that Harry will suffer in my absence, or that he will love someone else more, or any number of other things, but that I am not doing enough to help Kevin, and he will exhaust himself. Hard as I try, I suspect he would give 200% of himself even if I were home 24/7. I worry that I am not doing my share, but in reality, and I hope Kevin agrees, we are working together towards a common goal, and each taking turns at a variety of tasks, just as we would on a seesaw, and Harry is benefiting from his opportunities. I worry that I cannot thank Kevin enough for being such an amazing dad. Perhaps I don't have to. We've got Harry to show for that!
Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I hope you have a great day, and have as much to be thankful for as we do, including our fabulous friends and family!
Strange as it may seem, I am still not comfortable with the word mom. I still don't feel like a mom. I think Kevin feels more like one than I do. Perhaps this is because he takes on more of the traditional mom roles while I take on less. I am not saying that Kevin takes on more parenting duties than I do, though some may argue the case. I think we share things very equally, in a seesaw fashion. Sometimes I do more (no need to smirk), sometimes he does more. I worry that he does more far too often. As I am writing this, I am beginning to think that I am an idiot. I am sure I am not the first woman to realize this, though it often seems this way. Kevin and I both work. We both pay bills. We both have identities of our own. We both contributed equally to Harry's DNA. Why shouldn't we share the joys and responsibilities of parenting Harry equally? I think this is why the word "Mom" gets to me so much. When I read books, magazines, blogs…I identify with "Dad" a lot more. I think a lot of Dad articles are more balanced, and they so often discuss the judgments that are passed their way. I feel like the word Dad entails a lot more balance. It is assumed if you are a dad you spend time away from your child, that you have a job and responsibilities and downtime…and other interests. The impression I get of the word mom is that you are never away from your child. EVER! If you are, there must be a VERY GOOD reason why. Perhaps your husband was laid off and you must reluctantly leave the home to find gainful employment. Perhaps a highly qualified nanny is supervising a well suited playdate while you run to the supermarket for supplies. Perhaps a grandparent dropped in so you could have 30 minutes to yourself. Moms know everything and decide everything for their child, even if Dad has a better option or logic would say to do something differently. The reality is, sometimes what is best for your child is NOT being with them every second of the day. When I run into people at Starbucks, or a new trainer at the gym asks where Harry is or who takes care of him when I travel, they are often taken aback that he is at daycare or that Kevin takes care if him. I was flying home first class from Florida the other day. There happened to be FOUR women in first class with me. This NEVER happens. The woman next to me (they didn't even space us out!) also had young children and traveled a lot. She didn't once ask who was watching Harry. We discussed how lucky our kids were to have two parents actively involved in their lives. We discussed how much we valued our time together and the fun little things we do for them when we are away (so far, I select Harry's clothes for the days I am gone and chat with him on the phone, but I look forward to the days when I can leave him happy notes or little surprises or fax homework corrections). We also discussed how great it is that they have other people in their lives, such as daycare providers or school chums that they can interact with and learn from. Some people actually ask why he doesn't have a nanny. Well, several reasons, none of which include the cost:
1. I did not want Harry alone with 1 person all day in case something happened to the person either through injury while she was with Harry or that she didn't show up for work one day, or that 1 person alone, unsupervised, could harm Harry.
2. I wanted Harry to be around other children in a casual, playful, learning environment.
3. I cannot work with Harry in the house because I want to play with him when he is there.
4. I don't want him in a car with anyone just yet.
5. I am sure there are others, but I cannot remember them all.
So, while I am in fact a mom, and a pretty good one at that, I feel the word is so limiting. I feel the choices I make are all in Harry's best interests. SOme may say I am kidding myself, but I say, take a look at your own world and see if yours is working as well before judging mine. I think it is good for him to see two people, or three people and a dog, work together as a team. I think it is important for him to see that people are not limited to certain pre-defined roles. I think it is important to not just "mother" Harry, but to let other people have an influence on his life, so that he may learn other cultures, other ways of doing things, other ways of seeing things. I don't think Harry should do everything the same way I do. I look forward to open discussions about so many topics as he gets older. I will surely be one of those parents that stops everything to look something up (and by look up I mean Google it). I feel that my role in Harry's life is to provide him the proper tools to become his own person. Once again, I hope this experiment works better than it did with Bailey! I could not be happier that Harry has a father who is more than someone who writes checks and throws a ball. No disrespect to fathers out there who did little more than show up at 5:30 to instill discipline- things were very different until recently. I am pretty sure that Kevin is the person Harry goes to when he is REALLY scared, sad, not feeling well. I seem to still be the good cop though, and can handle the minor bumps and bruises in Harry's eyes. I think at least one reason this has happened is because Kevin is the sleep whisperer. He is the one that puts Harry to bed in the middle of the night. He is the one that is the "expert" on whether we can pick him up if he is crying. Kevin's expertise in this area can bug me a little, but I know I am gone sometimes, and also afraid of the dark, so I let this one slide, and I instead focus on the things that are mine, like our morning wake-up routine, or our time together after school. I am also looking forward to the 3 days I will be alone with him after Yule while Menike is off yet again. I felt a bit guilty that I left for a business trip while Harry was sick, but I remind myself that I am with a new company that I have done very little for so far, but should benefit me in the long run. I don't need to remind myself that Kevin is very capable. I can take my turn as nursemaid when I get home. I think the guilt comes not from worrying that Harry will suffer in my absence, or that he will love someone else more, or any number of other things, but that I am not doing enough to help Kevin, and he will exhaust himself. Hard as I try, I suspect he would give 200% of himself even if I were home 24/7. I worry that I am not doing my share, but in reality, and I hope Kevin agrees, we are working together towards a common goal, and each taking turns at a variety of tasks, just as we would on a seesaw, and Harry is benefiting from his opportunities. I worry that I cannot thank Kevin enough for being such an amazing dad. Perhaps I don't have to. We've got Harry to show for that!
Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I hope you have a great day, and have as much to be thankful for as we do, including our fabulous friends and family!
Friday, November 18, 2005
It's been a while since we've had some serious introspection from the testosterone-laden side of the house, and as Friday's are as good a time as any to take on a diversion or 2 during the day, thought I'd poke my head in and offer some hot air on this cold afternoon...
I know I'm a bit behind on this, but first and foremost, I'd like to offer public congratulations to Kim and all of her co-horts for their participation, both on- and off-course, in the 30th annual Marine Corps Marathon. I still haven't done one yet, and honestly have little inclination to. Regardless, a fantastic effort by all. A gorgeous day, a gazillion fans (and racers for that matter), and Harry still managed to sleep from one end of the Mall to the other -- he literally slept the entire time, as we walked from the National Museum of the Native American, to the USMC Iwo Jima Memorial. Friendly faces accompanying at the pre-race pasta dinner, the Expo, the race itself, and even in the finish line crowd hopefully were all significant factors in bringing everyone over the line.
National-dress-up-in-a-funny-costume-and-panhandle-for-free-candy-day-into-early-evening was also a blast this year. Harry had a blast looting through the neighbors' foyers, and apparently even locked himself in one (he LOVES closing doors behind him, whether you're there or not)! Accompaniment from his right-hand monkey Lance certainly made even better.
Speaking of which, great segue into the party at Casa Savagtny. Although Harry made his grand entrance dead to the world slumbering over Dad's shoulder, but quickly caught his 90th wind of the day just in time to learn how to dip Nacho chips into Salsa -n- Cheez. This is not to say that much, if any, of the dip remained on the chip, nor that the chip made it into Harry's mouth, but he had a lot of fun trying. Lance's dad decided also to break out the strings, and Harry got to get his first real glimpse of me vainly attempting to remember how to fingerpick. Much to Kim's delight, the old standbys came back after only a few botches... like riding a bike.
Another Friday, and another federal holiday make for a great reason to head downtown for a hockey matinee. Thanks to some great seats from Audrius Zubrus, Harry got to get an up close & personal look at the Olympia Ice Resurfacer (no... it's NOT a Zamboni!!!), and even a nice visit from driver Phil shortly after. As with our last outing to MCI Center, it was great to see everyone, and to be seen by everyone else. Looking forward to another jaunt, hopefully to touch base with the extended Wagner clan before Turkey Day.
Follow that with a busy Saturday at the Little Gym, dinner with the Lynch's (newborn Tyler included), and a daytrip to NJ for Dominic Jr's birthday party, and Harry was pooped for sure (in several sense of the word).
This weekend will certainly be just as busy... more hockey, more friends coming to dinner (it's great to finally be able to entertain), and more travel on the horizon.
Harry seems to do very well with all of it, many would note that he handles it all MUCH better than his father ever has (not that you'd get much of an argument). It's not much of a surprise though, as Harry has always been into what's going on around him. From the first few minutes when he was taking everything in with those big wide open eyes, to exploring the video arcade for new games to play, he's always taking it in.
I know I'm a bit behind on this, but first and foremost, I'd like to offer public congratulations to Kim and all of her co-horts for their participation, both on- and off-course, in the 30th annual Marine Corps Marathon. I still haven't done one yet, and honestly have little inclination to. Regardless, a fantastic effort by all. A gorgeous day, a gazillion fans (and racers for that matter), and Harry still managed to sleep from one end of the Mall to the other -- he literally slept the entire time, as we walked from the National Museum of the Native American, to the USMC Iwo Jima Memorial. Friendly faces accompanying at the pre-race pasta dinner, the Expo, the race itself, and even in the finish line crowd hopefully were all significant factors in bringing everyone over the line.
National-dress-up-in-a-funny-costume-and-panhandle-for-free-candy-day-into-early-evening was also a blast this year. Harry had a blast looting through the neighbors' foyers, and apparently even locked himself in one (he LOVES closing doors behind him, whether you're there or not)! Accompaniment from his right-hand monkey Lance certainly made even better.
Speaking of which, great segue into the party at Casa Savagtny. Although Harry made his grand entrance dead to the world slumbering over Dad's shoulder, but quickly caught his 90th wind of the day just in time to learn how to dip Nacho chips into Salsa -n- Cheez. This is not to say that much, if any, of the dip remained on the chip, nor that the chip made it into Harry's mouth, but he had a lot of fun trying. Lance's dad decided also to break out the strings, and Harry got to get his first real glimpse of me vainly attempting to remember how to fingerpick. Much to Kim's delight, the old standbys came back after only a few botches... like riding a bike.
Another Friday, and another federal holiday make for a great reason to head downtown for a hockey matinee. Thanks to some great seats from Audrius Zubrus, Harry got to get an up close & personal look at the Olympia Ice Resurfacer (no... it's NOT a Zamboni!!!), and even a nice visit from driver Phil shortly after. As with our last outing to MCI Center, it was great to see everyone, and to be seen by everyone else. Looking forward to another jaunt, hopefully to touch base with the extended Wagner clan before Turkey Day.
Follow that with a busy Saturday at the Little Gym, dinner with the Lynch's (newborn Tyler included), and a daytrip to NJ for Dominic Jr's birthday party, and Harry was pooped for sure (in several sense of the word).
This weekend will certainly be just as busy... more hockey, more friends coming to dinner (it's great to finally be able to entertain), and more travel on the horizon.
Harry seems to do very well with all of it, many would note that he handles it all MUCH better than his father ever has (not that you'd get much of an argument). It's not much of a surprise though, as Harry has always been into what's going on around him. From the first few minutes when he was taking everything in with those big wide open eyes, to exploring the video arcade for new games to play, he's always taking it in.
Thursday, November 17, 2005
Blogging my way to fame
Hey! I need your help! I have been asked to do a blogspot on the seemommyrun.com website, one that could even end up on a sponsor's website. I need to come up with something pretty soon. Something brief and positive about fitness, motherhood, babies...Any suggestions?
Here are the choices:
Hey! I need your help! I have been asked to do a blogspot on the seemommyrun.com website, one that could even end up on a sponsor's website. I need to come up with something pretty soon. Something brief and positive about fitness, motherhood, babies...Any suggestions?
Here are the choices:
- Cat's in the Cradle - my blog about guilt experienced through travel, and it's upside
- Andre Agassis- similar to my post about Agassi's kid hitting the ball over the net, and how thrilled I was when Harry scaled the rock wall at the playground
- Importance of fitting in Fitness while working full time
- Harry's increased confidence through gymnastics, and how it applies to the rest of his life
- Other---but make a suggestion (please!)
Thank you!!! Maybe I can eventually publish the Great American Novel after all!
Thankful
Looks like we will be headed to Jersey this year for Turkey Day after all. We were sort of iffy, but traditions are important. Life just wouldn't be the same without a warm welcome home from Pierre Robert, DJ extraordinnaire. Perhaps we can email him a request for some tunes from the Hooters when we cross the border!
Hannah will be checking in on Bailey. She really wants to start a pet sitting business. Most of the effort will be on Kelly's part, since, for one, 8 year olds don't drive...Hmmm...perhaps in the future she can hire Nicholas from across the street. I am sure she would see the logic behind giving him 50% of the profit to do 100% of the work! They are both great kids. I am thankful Harry gets to grow up with them! The kids in our neighborhood are so friendly and well adjusted. The adults seem to be as well.
I am thankful for a lot really. It has been a really great year for us. Actually, teh years seem to keep getting better. Not all luck, certainly, but a lot of hard work. I am thankful for my wonderful friends and family, especially the new little ones that keep popping up. I can't wait to see Harry grow up with them. I think it is the people in your life that really make it what it is. I am thankful that I have the world's best husband who does everything just perfectly (with the exception of putting his cell phone charger away). I am thankful that Harry is a happy, healthy, well-adjusted little cutie-pie, and I am thankful that I have job options and that my job is well suited for me. Most of all I am thankful that we were able to move away from our freakshow neighbor and her son. I don't want to say anything too negative that might bring about bad Karma, but it is just really nice to not feel like we are being stalked every time we turn on a light or enter the backyard. We really loveteh new neighborhood - even with the still packed boxes.
Anyway, off to meet Kelly at the gym. Have to sneak in time during the day so that I don't miss my Harry time. It's so cold outside though! Maybe I'll bring my laptop and catch up on some work afterwards with a cup of Cider at Starbucks...maybe call Casey's dad and update him on the pet communicator... then swing by Target to get Harry a travel potty seat. He's still very focused on his duties.
Looks like we will be headed to Jersey this year for Turkey Day after all. We were sort of iffy, but traditions are important. Life just wouldn't be the same without a warm welcome home from Pierre Robert, DJ extraordinnaire. Perhaps we can email him a request for some tunes from the Hooters when we cross the border!
Hannah will be checking in on Bailey. She really wants to start a pet sitting business. Most of the effort will be on Kelly's part, since, for one, 8 year olds don't drive...Hmmm...perhaps in the future she can hire Nicholas from across the street. I am sure she would see the logic behind giving him 50% of the profit to do 100% of the work! They are both great kids. I am thankful Harry gets to grow up with them! The kids in our neighborhood are so friendly and well adjusted. The adults seem to be as well.
I am thankful for a lot really. It has been a really great year for us. Actually, teh years seem to keep getting better. Not all luck, certainly, but a lot of hard work. I am thankful for my wonderful friends and family, especially the new little ones that keep popping up. I can't wait to see Harry grow up with them. I think it is the people in your life that really make it what it is. I am thankful that I have the world's best husband who does everything just perfectly (with the exception of putting his cell phone charger away). I am thankful that Harry is a happy, healthy, well-adjusted little cutie-pie, and I am thankful that I have job options and that my job is well suited for me. Most of all I am thankful that we were able to move away from our freakshow neighbor and her son. I don't want to say anything too negative that might bring about bad Karma, but it is just really nice to not feel like we are being stalked every time we turn on a light or enter the backyard. We really loveteh new neighborhood - even with the still packed boxes.
Anyway, off to meet Kelly at the gym. Have to sneak in time during the day so that I don't miss my Harry time. It's so cold outside though! Maybe I'll bring my laptop and catch up on some work afterwards with a cup of Cider at Starbucks...maybe call Casey's dad and update him on the pet communicator... then swing by Target to get Harry a travel potty seat. He's still very focused on his duties.
Tuesday, November 15, 2005
Bailey was here.
Wow. What a day for me.
...
I suppose all tears are not bad. At least, not the productive ones.
First there was Laguna Beach. Season Finale. Everyone headed off to their new lives. Brought back a few memories.
Last their was The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants. I'm at a hotel. I watch movies. That was all I was in the mood for. Bailey is a little girl in the movie. She died of leukemia. They write Bailey was here on the pants. Seeing that really upset me. I feel like I failed Bailey.
I learned today that I at least feel like I failed my two other dogs. Shannon and Taffy. My dad "took Taffy to the vet" my freshman year in college. She was probably 17. I wasn't even there to say good-bye. Shannon went to live with Kevin's parents after living with me for only a short time. I still visited, but still..I failed them both. Sure, it couldn't be helped, but is that really an excuse? I don't think it is. At least, hopefully, I still have a shot at redemption- or at the very least clearing my sinuses. Okay, I guess I have a bit of Chandler Bing in my personality as well. (the making light of things thing).
At this point, most of you probably have no clue what I am talking about. Let me explain a little better- after all, it's what you've all been waiting for.
Today was animal communication day.
Here is the link:
http://yourhealingjourney.com/
Of course there's a link.
Bailey and I spoke with Diana Hunter for an hour. It was a little bit difficult because the cleaning people were there, and we had to keep moving from room to room to get away from them. Having people in the house also stressed Bailey a little. But, I think the session was successful. I know most of you are skeptics, so I don't actually feel like telling the whole story. Helping Bailey feel better is what is important, and we called to the elements to assist, along with Pan, Athena and a few others. At the very least, it helped Bailey poop. Diana said she was constipated ( I think she actually was- less mess in the yard) and that was fixed by the end of the call. The real verdict was that she is also mildly depressed. It's true. She is. I have thought so in the past and was neglecting the fact. She also misses her friendship with Kevin. She also misses "mom." Since she was 7 weeks old when she left her birth mom, I can only assume that she is referring to my mom, who she spent a considerable amount of time with after Harry was born, and was always crushed when she left. But I guess it could be her mom...maybe she wants to move to the country and hunt? Regardless, It sounds like, most importantly, ...Harry doesn't pay enough attention to her! GRRRR!!! THAT was unexpected! Can you believe it??? How do I fix that?!
Well, I thought a bit more about it. I think we exclude her from a lot of Harry activities. Harry is the cool new kid. Maybe Bailey may or may not have disliked him at first, but perhaps if she were best buds with the new kid, life would be sunnier. So, the plan is to include Bailey in more Harry activities, like bedtime.
Her wings are also stiff. I suspect it is neck tension. Perhaps some massage so her astral spirit can soar.
Okay, naysayers, any better suggestions to make my best friend happy? Then be quiet! If Bailey is happy, everyone is happy. And I will not be one of those people that ditches their pup because someone better came along. I am just not like that.
I also need her ears in the house.
Wow. What a day for me.
...
I suppose all tears are not bad. At least, not the productive ones.
First there was Laguna Beach. Season Finale. Everyone headed off to their new lives. Brought back a few memories.
Last their was The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants. I'm at a hotel. I watch movies. That was all I was in the mood for. Bailey is a little girl in the movie. She died of leukemia. They write Bailey was here on the pants. Seeing that really upset me. I feel like I failed Bailey.
I learned today that I at least feel like I failed my two other dogs. Shannon and Taffy. My dad "took Taffy to the vet" my freshman year in college. She was probably 17. I wasn't even there to say good-bye. Shannon went to live with Kevin's parents after living with me for only a short time. I still visited, but still..I failed them both. Sure, it couldn't be helped, but is that really an excuse? I don't think it is. At least, hopefully, I still have a shot at redemption- or at the very least clearing my sinuses. Okay, I guess I have a bit of Chandler Bing in my personality as well. (the making light of things thing).
At this point, most of you probably have no clue what I am talking about. Let me explain a little better- after all, it's what you've all been waiting for.
Today was animal communication day.
Here is the link:
http://yourhealingjourney.com/
Of course there's a link.
Bailey and I spoke with Diana Hunter for an hour. It was a little bit difficult because the cleaning people were there, and we had to keep moving from room to room to get away from them. Having people in the house also stressed Bailey a little. But, I think the session was successful. I know most of you are skeptics, so I don't actually feel like telling the whole story. Helping Bailey feel better is what is important, and we called to the elements to assist, along with Pan, Athena and a few others. At the very least, it helped Bailey poop. Diana said she was constipated ( I think she actually was- less mess in the yard) and that was fixed by the end of the call. The real verdict was that she is also mildly depressed. It's true. She is. I have thought so in the past and was neglecting the fact. She also misses her friendship with Kevin. She also misses "mom." Since she was 7 weeks old when she left her birth mom, I can only assume that she is referring to my mom, who she spent a considerable amount of time with after Harry was born, and was always crushed when she left. But I guess it could be her mom...maybe she wants to move to the country and hunt? Regardless, It sounds like, most importantly, ...Harry doesn't pay enough attention to her! GRRRR!!! THAT was unexpected! Can you believe it??? How do I fix that?!
Well, I thought a bit more about it. I think we exclude her from a lot of Harry activities. Harry is the cool new kid. Maybe Bailey may or may not have disliked him at first, but perhaps if she were best buds with the new kid, life would be sunnier. So, the plan is to include Bailey in more Harry activities, like bedtime.
Her wings are also stiff. I suspect it is neck tension. Perhaps some massage so her astral spirit can soar.
Okay, naysayers, any better suggestions to make my best friend happy? Then be quiet! If Bailey is happy, everyone is happy. And I will not be one of those people that ditches their pup because someone better came along. I am just not like that.
I also need her ears in the house.
Monday, November 14, 2005
Had some time to kill so I thought I'd update the ol' baby book with a little info from BabyCenter.com
New this month: Tantrum triggers
New?
Some days it may seem as though the littlest things set your toddler off. You serve his morning milk in the "wrong" cup and he throws it at you.
Maybe that is why the Lynches can bear witness to Harry tossing his yogurt and sandwich through the air on Saturday. Bad Dora tray! Bad!
Or he wants to go barefoot, even though it's raining outside, and screams his head off when you insist on putting on his boots.
Carry the boots with ya. They'll figure it our when they get cold.
What's going on? Sometimes the triggers will be more obvious than others. He may be tired or angry. Or he may be frustrated by his inability to complete a task that he is determined to do, like putting a round peg in a square hole.
What you can do
Tantrums tend to occur at the worst possible time for you. It seems like when your toddler blows a fuse you're either in a hurry to get out the door in the morning, at the grocery store with half the shopping done, or in the waiting room of the doctor's office.
Ah! People are just too uptight. Allow extra time.
What do these situations have in common? They are times that a typical toddler might feel emotional overload, and like he doesn't have your full attention. If you are aware of the situations that trigger tantrums, you may be able to prevent many of them with minor adjustments or a little advance planning. Get out of bed 15 minutes earlier in the morning so you're not rushing around the house.
Duh!
If you must grocery shop with your child, do it when he is well rested and fed. Carry a favorite book or stuffed animal to doctor visits — anything you can do to keep him calm will help. Also remember that the occasional tantrum is a normal byproduct of toddlerhood and development.
Other developments: Learning how to share, comfort objects
There is no "yours" in a toddler's vocabulary — everything is "mine!" So your car keys,
Oh, I didn't realize that. Hmmm...That explains a lot.
a sibling's beloved stuffed dog, his dad's boots, the slide at the local playground — all these things are, in the eyes of an 18-month-old, his. You can help your child understand what sharing means by praising him when he does give a toy to another child or lets another toddler go down the slide first.
Always! (As far as I know).
When reading a book or watching a video, point out examples of sharing. Try to avoid scolding him when he doesn't want to; sometimes just acknowledging how difficult sharing is will make him more willing to do so. You will have to be patient, and take comfort in the knowledge that other parents of toddlers are going through the same thing.
For a toddler, a favorite stuffed toy is a great source of comfort. He might also have some habits that soothe him — like twirling his hair, rocking, or sucking his thumb. Most children naturally outgrow these behaviors by the time they're 4, so there's probably no need for you to intervene now.
Harry has Snoedel, but that is just for nighttime. Snoedel suffers from chronic fatigue syndrome, so he is only allowed out of the crib for short periods of time. I distinctly remember being told by my parents that the police would arrest them if I were on the boardwalk in my stroller after 8PM. Even as a 2 1/2 year old, this seemed odd to me. I vowed right then to not lie to people, especially my children. I have always had trouble when people ask me if they look fat or their new hair cut suits them. (You may have noticed). Maybe that is why? But with Harry, well, I guess I have just learned to get better at it! -No, wait. I am not lying. I am fake-believing! I am teaching him to use his imagination, as I do with mine! Yeah---I'm sure this one won't come back and kick me in the tush when he's 15.
New this month: Tantrum triggers
New?
Some days it may seem as though the littlest things set your toddler off. You serve his morning milk in the "wrong" cup and he throws it at you.
Maybe that is why the Lynches can bear witness to Harry tossing his yogurt and sandwich through the air on Saturday. Bad Dora tray! Bad!
Or he wants to go barefoot, even though it's raining outside, and screams his head off when you insist on putting on his boots.
Carry the boots with ya. They'll figure it our when they get cold.
What's going on? Sometimes the triggers will be more obvious than others. He may be tired or angry. Or he may be frustrated by his inability to complete a task that he is determined to do, like putting a round peg in a square hole.
What you can do
Tantrums tend to occur at the worst possible time for you. It seems like when your toddler blows a fuse you're either in a hurry to get out the door in the morning, at the grocery store with half the shopping done, or in the waiting room of the doctor's office.
Ah! People are just too uptight. Allow extra time.
What do these situations have in common? They are times that a typical toddler might feel emotional overload, and like he doesn't have your full attention. If you are aware of the situations that trigger tantrums, you may be able to prevent many of them with minor adjustments or a little advance planning. Get out of bed 15 minutes earlier in the morning so you're not rushing around the house.
Duh!
If you must grocery shop with your child, do it when he is well rested and fed. Carry a favorite book or stuffed animal to doctor visits — anything you can do to keep him calm will help. Also remember that the occasional tantrum is a normal byproduct of toddlerhood and development.
Other developments: Learning how to share, comfort objects
There is no "yours" in a toddler's vocabulary — everything is "mine!" So your car keys,
Oh, I didn't realize that. Hmmm...That explains a lot.
a sibling's beloved stuffed dog, his dad's boots, the slide at the local playground — all these things are, in the eyes of an 18-month-old, his. You can help your child understand what sharing means by praising him when he does give a toy to another child or lets another toddler go down the slide first.
Always! (As far as I know).
When reading a book or watching a video, point out examples of sharing. Try to avoid scolding him when he doesn't want to; sometimes just acknowledging how difficult sharing is will make him more willing to do so. You will have to be patient, and take comfort in the knowledge that other parents of toddlers are going through the same thing.
For a toddler, a favorite stuffed toy is a great source of comfort. He might also have some habits that soothe him — like twirling his hair, rocking, or sucking his thumb. Most children naturally outgrow these behaviors by the time they're 4, so there's probably no need for you to intervene now.
Harry has Snoedel, but that is just for nighttime. Snoedel suffers from chronic fatigue syndrome, so he is only allowed out of the crib for short periods of time. I distinctly remember being told by my parents that the police would arrest them if I were on the boardwalk in my stroller after 8PM. Even as a 2 1/2 year old, this seemed odd to me. I vowed right then to not lie to people, especially my children. I have always had trouble when people ask me if they look fat or their new hair cut suits them. (You may have noticed). Maybe that is why? But with Harry, well, I guess I have just learned to get better at it! -No, wait. I am not lying. I am fake-believing! I am teaching him to use his imagination, as I do with mine! Yeah---I'm sure this one won't come back and kick me in the tush when he's 15.
Just a quick post before I run off to the gym to run off stuff..
Another long weekend, and one that involved too much sugar!
It left me feeling kind of gross and icky, so I need to sweat some of it out.
Harry already felt kind of gross and icky. Friday morning he threw up on Snoedel! Horrors! Especially because after throwing up, all he wanted was Snoedel! Bt he was a trooper.
And he was a trooper all weekend. He was home Friday for Veteran's Day. I took him to gym and he played a bit. I tried to keep him vertical (no monkey flips). Kevin took him to his second hockey game. We decided at least if he went to the game he would sit still and maybe feel better. He chilled with Kevin's sunglasses on behind the goal. He fell asleep on the way to Lola's party, but eventually woke up and hung out with Lance. More gym on Saturday and a visit from the Lynches with baby Tyler. Harry was intrigued by the little one, but not too intrigued to make it to bed on time at 7:30. Sunday we headed up to Jersey for cousin Dominic's 5th birthday. It was at the Funplex. I swore I woudl not let my child play video games, but I think Harry was born with some techno gene. I suspect my hands are tied.
Another long weekend, and one that involved too much sugar!
It left me feeling kind of gross and icky, so I need to sweat some of it out.
Harry already felt kind of gross and icky. Friday morning he threw up on Snoedel! Horrors! Especially because after throwing up, all he wanted was Snoedel! Bt he was a trooper.
And he was a trooper all weekend. He was home Friday for Veteran's Day. I took him to gym and he played a bit. I tried to keep him vertical (no monkey flips). Kevin took him to his second hockey game. We decided at least if he went to the game he would sit still and maybe feel better. He chilled with Kevin's sunglasses on behind the goal. He fell asleep on the way to Lola's party, but eventually woke up and hung out with Lance. More gym on Saturday and a visit from the Lynches with baby Tyler. Harry was intrigued by the little one, but not too intrigued to make it to bed on time at 7:30. Sunday we headed up to Jersey for cousin Dominic's 5th birthday. It was at the Funplex. I swore I woudl not let my child play video games, but I think Harry was born with some techno gene. I suspect my hands are tied.
Wednesday, November 09, 2005
Shoes.
At long last, Harry's missing orange/brown/yellow sandal was located. It had gone missing sometime before the move. He captured it and put it on his foot, over his socks. I found the mirror image twin in the closet, where it had been placed for safe keeping, in hopes of a reunion. Harry padded around for a few minutes, but soon tired of the shoes. Fickle. I took them off and handed him the set, asking him to put them in his room. They didn't quite make it. Instead, they ended up next to his bedroom door, side by side- right on top of my own sneakers!
At long last, Harry's missing orange/brown/yellow sandal was located. It had gone missing sometime before the move. He captured it and put it on his foot, over his socks. I found the mirror image twin in the closet, where it had been placed for safe keeping, in hopes of a reunion. Harry padded around for a few minutes, but soon tired of the shoes. Fickle. I took them off and handed him the set, asking him to put them in his room. They didn't quite make it. Instead, they ended up next to his bedroom door, side by side- right on top of my own sneakers!
Sunday, November 06, 2005
Beagles, Beagles Everywhere!
Blue skies and mid-seventies this weekend. We made it back to our old stomping grounds at Great Falls. Harry got to walk on crunchy leaves, gather lots of different sticks and get his first real glimpse of the rare geological occurance that is Great Falls. We also saw no less than 10 beagles while there. And 2 or 3 more on the way home!
We also got to see little Arwen on Saturday, play with freinds at The Little Gym, swing on swings at the park and hoola hoop and jump rope with the neighborhood kids in the Cul-de-sac. And that was just Saturday. Today we took it easy. Long walk to St. Elmo's. Trip to the park at Mt. Vernon Elementary, and a trip to REI to get some cool Merrell Mocs and a warm but lightweight fleece that lets Harry be Harry and not just another puffy jacket with a face!
Things Harry likes this week:
1. Lemonade
2. Walking Bailey on her leash
3. Playing with other kids
4. Going to the park
5. Long walks in the Baby Jogger
Things I like:
1. When Harry runs into my arms with a big smile on his face at gym class
2. Watching Harry's confidence increase as he goes off to play with the big kids
3. Listening to Harry learn new words
4. Watching Harry sleep sideays in his crib ( he doesn't still fit), in his little striped blanket sleeper
5. Harry's expressions, especially when he is playing "Monkey See, Monkey Do"
By the way, Harry PEED on the potty tonight! He was actually fighting me for the toilet. Who knew he meant business???
Wosrt part of today: Some very rude woman at St. Elmo's saw Harry opening a free newspaper box door and "affectionately" commented "Aw, how cute! You're teaching him vandalism early!" Feedback please: any chance this could have been meant in a nice way? I am trying to leave it "outside of my circle" but it was annoying.
1. Vandalism is not really something a parent would teach.
2. He wasn't vandalising anytging
3. I can't leave it out of my circle
4. I didn't say anything back---because I didn't want to seem like a sensitive, argumentative person. It really is a fine line.
5. Why would anyone say such a rude thing? St. Elmo's people suck! Why do we ever go there?
One thing that made me feel better: watching Desperate Housewives. Felicity Huffman's character's colleagues were so rude to her about her suits. What is wrong with people?
I really have to leave it outside of the circle!
Blue skies and mid-seventies this weekend. We made it back to our old stomping grounds at Great Falls. Harry got to walk on crunchy leaves, gather lots of different sticks and get his first real glimpse of the rare geological occurance that is Great Falls. We also saw no less than 10 beagles while there. And 2 or 3 more on the way home!
We also got to see little Arwen on Saturday, play with freinds at The Little Gym, swing on swings at the park and hoola hoop and jump rope with the neighborhood kids in the Cul-de-sac. And that was just Saturday. Today we took it easy. Long walk to St. Elmo's. Trip to the park at Mt. Vernon Elementary, and a trip to REI to get some cool Merrell Mocs and a warm but lightweight fleece that lets Harry be Harry and not just another puffy jacket with a face!
Things Harry likes this week:
1. Lemonade
2. Walking Bailey on her leash
3. Playing with other kids
4. Going to the park
5. Long walks in the Baby Jogger
Things I like:
1. When Harry runs into my arms with a big smile on his face at gym class
2. Watching Harry's confidence increase as he goes off to play with the big kids
3. Listening to Harry learn new words
4. Watching Harry sleep sideays in his crib ( he doesn't still fit), in his little striped blanket sleeper
5. Harry's expressions, especially when he is playing "Monkey See, Monkey Do"
By the way, Harry PEED on the potty tonight! He was actually fighting me for the toilet. Who knew he meant business???
Wosrt part of today: Some very rude woman at St. Elmo's saw Harry opening a free newspaper box door and "affectionately" commented "Aw, how cute! You're teaching him vandalism early!" Feedback please: any chance this could have been meant in a nice way? I am trying to leave it "outside of my circle" but it was annoying.
1. Vandalism is not really something a parent would teach.
2. He wasn't vandalising anytging
3. I can't leave it out of my circle
4. I didn't say anything back---because I didn't want to seem like a sensitive, argumentative person. It really is a fine line.
5. Why would anyone say such a rude thing? St. Elmo's people suck! Why do we ever go there?
One thing that made me feel better: watching Desperate Housewives. Felicity Huffman's character's colleagues were so rude to her about her suits. What is wrong with people?
I really have to leave it outside of the circle!
Friday, November 04, 2005
Domestic Matters
After months of unanswered calls from Terminex and 1 well worded letter to the Better Business Bureau, and several letters from them telling me they were forwarding my concerns to various offices, I received 3 calls from Terminex in teh past 24 hours apologizing for any problems and asking if there was any way they could assist me. My balance is now $0, so no, I am perfectly well assisted. Thank you BBB!
Terminex appeared at my house one day after I cancelled them and without calling first. Since we were moving, and since I cancelled service, I didn't think I should have to pay. I usually just write a check anyway, but I held firm on this one. Next time, I will try Orkin.
I will be writing a check to one Ms. Diana Hunter, Wiccan, Animal Communicator and Shaman. Gotta stop this digging. And the crying! It is incessant, both Bailey's and ours. Thanks to Bailey, Harry is growing up in a very tense household. I plan to rememdy that on November 15. I will let you know how it goes! I don't want to be one of those people that ditches there dog after a baby is born. I really don't. Plus, I need the extra pair of ears.
After months of unanswered calls from Terminex and 1 well worded letter to the Better Business Bureau, and several letters from them telling me they were forwarding my concerns to various offices, I received 3 calls from Terminex in teh past 24 hours apologizing for any problems and asking if there was any way they could assist me. My balance is now $0, so no, I am perfectly well assisted. Thank you BBB!
Terminex appeared at my house one day after I cancelled them and without calling first. Since we were moving, and since I cancelled service, I didn't think I should have to pay. I usually just write a check anyway, but I held firm on this one. Next time, I will try Orkin.
I will be writing a check to one Ms. Diana Hunter, Wiccan, Animal Communicator and Shaman. Gotta stop this digging. And the crying! It is incessant, both Bailey's and ours. Thanks to Bailey, Harry is growing up in a very tense household. I plan to rememdy that on November 15. I will let you know how it goes! I don't want to be one of those people that ditches there dog after a baby is born. I really don't. Plus, I need the extra pair of ears.
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
Happy Samhain!...and some talk about pain being temporary...
New year, new you. Or, new me. Concerning my running endeavors, let's just say this is a "rebuilding year". AFter 7 years of running, I think I surpassed my first marathon time by possibly 3 minutes. The MCM XXX was about 75 minutes worse then my best marathon time in 2001. Before the race, there was a Tylenol ad in the program that read "Pain is Temporary, Quitting is Forever." That kept me going. That, my curiously clear lungs and sinuses, my almost back in shape legs and back, the blue skies above and my fabulous friends and family.
This race was CROWDED. An extra 10,000 people this year. 30,000 signed up, and 28,000+ ran. This meant that the first 5 miles were slow going. Tara, Meghan and I did our best to maintain about a 12 minute pace. It was hard to go any faster, and we had to weave around folks just to do that. Even though my first race was with a run/walk group, in this size crowd, I have to admit this years groups were rather annoying. They would yell "walk!" and stop dead in front of you. Bad. But that's okay.
It seemed all uphill until Key Bridge. We saw Kristie Greco and her roommate Jamie at mile 2. They took our coats (and pom poms!). By the time we got to Georgetown, Meghan broke out ahead of us. It was a good spot for that. The streets got wider. It seemed like it wasn't as crowded this year...but maybe that was because our start time was 50 minutes after the first gun went off.
We ran into Tara's dad as we were leaving M Street. Then we carried on. I kept looking for Andrew in his red Phillies cap, but I couldn't find him, even though he apparently crossed the finish line after me and somewhere along the lines, based on Adria's online tracking, he passed us. Maybe it was during a bathroom break? I stopped four times to pee. That's a time killer. I think there were more water and powerade stations this year.
We saw Alyssa before Rock Creek. We kept looking for Jill and other seemommyrunners. I Gu'd up every hour, on the hour. I think the sugars did wonders for my legs. Not so great on my stomach though. But like I said, my nose and lungs felt great, so that was cool. It was at about this point that I set my brain to "do it better next time." I'm still a cheerleader at heart, and I can even motivate myself at times.
Things were getting tough around mile 12. That was basically my longest training run, so I can understand why. I was trying to wave Tara on, but to no avail. She said we'd run together. SO that meant I had to keep going. At that moment, we looked up and saw the greatest thing ever: a gigantose professionally made sign from Sully and Aidan! I remembered Aidan doing a spell check about a week prior, but I thought they were just pulling out the sharpies! The sign was awesome, and we sprinted at least a block up to it. SUlly and Aidan were there with Kevin, Harry, StinkyInky, Lola, Lance and Dave's friend Dave's two sons from Juneau, Alaska. There were Bloody Mary's (I had 2 sips) and oranges and muffins. Harry started crying when he saw me, so I got to hug him. I missed hugging Kevin, but got another chance about a mile ahead. Kevin and Harry pulled up with the baby jogger while we were at a corner receiving first aid (lip balm for my arm) from Jamie and Kristie.
Saw some of Tara's friends a little bit further, and then her mom. Stopped to pee and stretch at Mile 15, then headed to Haines Point. UGH! Quiet. Boring. We ran alone at this point. The only sounds were people worried about "The Bridge." This is the 14th Street Bridge, where if you don't cross it by a certain time, the bus comes to pick you up. However, a friend, Ahram, hopped on the bus in 2001...and they give you lunch! That was sounding good, but I new we didn't need to worry about the bus.
So, I took some candy from strangers, some Tylenol from the Marines and left Haines Point for The Bridge. The Bridge is concrete. I messed up my sciatic nerve running on concrete in early 2000 or 2001 at the GW Parkway Classic, so I decided the smart thing was to do a walk break. I can also justify nearly anything. But I still heard the echo of "Quitting is Forever" so I trudged on. I called Kevin to tell him I passed the 20 mile mark. Then I hung up. Couldn't talk.
Post bridge, Paul Murray yelled my name, so I chatted for a second and then kept going. Running again. The course looped through Crystal City around 22-24, so I saw Tara again and yelled for her.
I was strating to hurt though. My arches hurt a little, but my spirit hurt more. The negative talk really got going. My breathing stopped. The way home seemed closer than the finish line. But I trudged on, not making eye contact for fear someone would yell my name and I would cry.
I took a call from Konnie. Chatted about work. Then I saw Paul and his Navy Federal gang so I ran to catch up. He offered to run, and while I was pretty unhappy at that point, I accepted the offer, figuring it was the only way to get myself done quickly. We ran to Joan Jett, both on stereo and Karaoke style for about 2 miles. Before I knew it, it was mile 26. Paul was asked to leave the course since he didn't have a bib. I thanked him and sprinted, slowly, up the hill. 200 yards. 80 feet. I knew the course, so I paced myself. The course changed. Finish line was closer. I sprinted across it, then nearly burst into tears, so happy to be DONE!!!
I foudn Kevin and Meg and Harry a few yards away.Happy to see them. Harry was thrilled to see me. He'd been a good boy all day. He earned a medal, so he put it on, grabbed my bottle of water and shared the rest of my Cliff Bar.
Tara finished about 15 minutes ahead of me. Andrew wasn't sure of his time. Meghan did great! I think I finished in the middle of the seemommyrun pack. Jill finished well after me, but apparently her friend Amy was part of a collision at Mile 2---but they made it to the end anyway.
I feel great now. No real aches and pains, but I suspect I may lose the right toenail. I do have a gash in my left side. I think it was from the cellphone band I wore until Mile 13. Oh well. I am ready for the next one. Dublin 2010? Or maybe another MCM so that this time I can actually finish ahead of Kermi (he passed me with Miss Piggy, a new entry, at Mile 13) and the juggler (who dropped his balls after passing me on the bridge).
I am so greatful I have the world's best husband and the greatest friends on the planet...and a very understanding little boy, who did his best to figure out why mommy ran right past him.
But, Harry got to enjoy a day of his own on the 31st. He stayed home from school and went for a bike ride to the bagel place where we got to spend some more time with Aunt Meg. Grandmom came over shortly after, and we also got to see Tara again. We played around the house all afternoon, "talking on the phone" and practicing jumping. Lance came over at 5 and we were all set for the Halloween Parade.
The Hart's, the peopel we bought our house from, appeared right before we headed over. They brought their little chicken, Eve. She was the cutest! The Monkey and the Pirate followed and we headed to Quincy Avenue/Road/ Street were the parade started. By the time we winded down Monroe, we ran into Tara and some neighbors we knew, Belinda, Anita & Tres & their family, William's family, the people who held Oktoberfest, and a bunch of others. Everyone was taking pictures, and it looked like one of the scenes from ET or Mr. Mom when all of the kids are out Trick or Treating. I always wanted to be a part of that!
Harry got some special treats from Anita next door. He actually walked up to their house himself, quickly figuring things out. We then went to the first house across the street. Harry proceeded to step inside and close the door---with Mommy, Lance and Lola on the outside! Luckily, everyone thought it was funny and we moved on. We stuck to 6 houses on the Cul-de-sac, and Lanec and Harry quit to indulge in some fruit snacks. Good thing we'd already met the people who had supplied the treats!
Harry was happy to carry his embroidered pumpkin "purse" from Aunt Toni. Luckily, he has been practicing the purse carrying, so it came in handy. He can also count to 1 (3 actually, but he actually says "one"), so some of the time he took only 1 candy, and even put it in his bag (some of the time). He had a blast, but by 6:39 wanted to do nothing more than sleep...which he did for the next 12 hours without a sound, waking up to find toys that our dearly departed had left for him (from Pier 1) on their way to the Underworld.
Happy Samhain.
Pronounced "sow-in," Samhain is the time during which life and death walk hand in hand. On this day, the veil that separates the worlds (our plane of living and the plane of the dead) is at its thinnest. Many things are possible on this holiday. The God has arrived at the edge of live and is conceived as a seed that will be reborn soon. The Goddess in the form of the Crone rules, teaching us lessons and allowing our ancestors to guide us.
Samhain is one of the most maligned and least understood holidays. Contrary to the modern media images of Satanic worship and animal sacrifice, Wiccans believe that this is a time to remember and honor those who have gone before us.
Many of our current day Halloween activities are taken from this holiday. The jack-o-lanterns that we carve and place outside are evolutions of the ancient practice of leaving candles in windows to guide the dead to the underworld. Handing out candy to children was gleamed from the practice of leaving food out to nourish ancestors as they traveled the path to the underworld.
Since the veil is indeed thin, this is the ideal holiday to contact ancestors and initiate communication. Because it is the Wiccan "new year" it is also a time to cut away practices and behaviors that inhibit our growth, and the Crone is present to assist in removing that which is unhealthy from our lives. It is also a time to plan for the future through divination practices. Appropriate rituals include contacting ancestors within sacred circle, honoring the lives of those who have gone before us, releasing destructive habits, divination activities, and all transformation rituals.
New year, new you. Or, new me. Concerning my running endeavors, let's just say this is a "rebuilding year". AFter 7 years of running, I think I surpassed my first marathon time by possibly 3 minutes. The MCM XXX was about 75 minutes worse then my best marathon time in 2001. Before the race, there was a Tylenol ad in the program that read "Pain is Temporary, Quitting is Forever." That kept me going. That, my curiously clear lungs and sinuses, my almost back in shape legs and back, the blue skies above and my fabulous friends and family.
This race was CROWDED. An extra 10,000 people this year. 30,000 signed up, and 28,000+ ran. This meant that the first 5 miles were slow going. Tara, Meghan and I did our best to maintain about a 12 minute pace. It was hard to go any faster, and we had to weave around folks just to do that. Even though my first race was with a run/walk group, in this size crowd, I have to admit this years groups were rather annoying. They would yell "walk!" and stop dead in front of you. Bad. But that's okay.
It seemed all uphill until Key Bridge. We saw Kristie Greco and her roommate Jamie at mile 2. They took our coats (and pom poms!). By the time we got to Georgetown, Meghan broke out ahead of us. It was a good spot for that. The streets got wider. It seemed like it wasn't as crowded this year...but maybe that was because our start time was 50 minutes after the first gun went off.
We ran into Tara's dad as we were leaving M Street. Then we carried on. I kept looking for Andrew in his red Phillies cap, but I couldn't find him, even though he apparently crossed the finish line after me and somewhere along the lines, based on Adria's online tracking, he passed us. Maybe it was during a bathroom break? I stopped four times to pee. That's a time killer. I think there were more water and powerade stations this year.
We saw Alyssa before Rock Creek. We kept looking for Jill and other seemommyrunners. I Gu'd up every hour, on the hour. I think the sugars did wonders for my legs. Not so great on my stomach though. But like I said, my nose and lungs felt great, so that was cool. It was at about this point that I set my brain to "do it better next time." I'm still a cheerleader at heart, and I can even motivate myself at times.
Things were getting tough around mile 12. That was basically my longest training run, so I can understand why. I was trying to wave Tara on, but to no avail. She said we'd run together. SO that meant I had to keep going. At that moment, we looked up and saw the greatest thing ever: a gigantose professionally made sign from Sully and Aidan! I remembered Aidan doing a spell check about a week prior, but I thought they were just pulling out the sharpies! The sign was awesome, and we sprinted at least a block up to it. SUlly and Aidan were there with Kevin, Harry, StinkyInky, Lola, Lance and Dave's friend Dave's two sons from Juneau, Alaska. There were Bloody Mary's (I had 2 sips) and oranges and muffins. Harry started crying when he saw me, so I got to hug him. I missed hugging Kevin, but got another chance about a mile ahead. Kevin and Harry pulled up with the baby jogger while we were at a corner receiving first aid (lip balm for my arm) from Jamie and Kristie.
Saw some of Tara's friends a little bit further, and then her mom. Stopped to pee and stretch at Mile 15, then headed to Haines Point. UGH! Quiet. Boring. We ran alone at this point. The only sounds were people worried about "The Bridge." This is the 14th Street Bridge, where if you don't cross it by a certain time, the bus comes to pick you up. However, a friend, Ahram, hopped on the bus in 2001...and they give you lunch! That was sounding good, but I new we didn't need to worry about the bus.
So, I took some candy from strangers, some Tylenol from the Marines and left Haines Point for The Bridge. The Bridge is concrete. I messed up my sciatic nerve running on concrete in early 2000 or 2001 at the GW Parkway Classic, so I decided the smart thing was to do a walk break. I can also justify nearly anything. But I still heard the echo of "Quitting is Forever" so I trudged on. I called Kevin to tell him I passed the 20 mile mark. Then I hung up. Couldn't talk.
Post bridge, Paul Murray yelled my name, so I chatted for a second and then kept going. Running again. The course looped through Crystal City around 22-24, so I saw Tara again and yelled for her.
I was strating to hurt though. My arches hurt a little, but my spirit hurt more. The negative talk really got going. My breathing stopped. The way home seemed closer than the finish line. But I trudged on, not making eye contact for fear someone would yell my name and I would cry.
I took a call from Konnie. Chatted about work. Then I saw Paul and his Navy Federal gang so I ran to catch up. He offered to run, and while I was pretty unhappy at that point, I accepted the offer, figuring it was the only way to get myself done quickly. We ran to Joan Jett, both on stereo and Karaoke style for about 2 miles. Before I knew it, it was mile 26. Paul was asked to leave the course since he didn't have a bib. I thanked him and sprinted, slowly, up the hill. 200 yards. 80 feet. I knew the course, so I paced myself. The course changed. Finish line was closer. I sprinted across it, then nearly burst into tears, so happy to be DONE!!!
I foudn Kevin and Meg and Harry a few yards away.Happy to see them. Harry was thrilled to see me. He'd been a good boy all day. He earned a medal, so he put it on, grabbed my bottle of water and shared the rest of my Cliff Bar.
Tara finished about 15 minutes ahead of me. Andrew wasn't sure of his time. Meghan did great! I think I finished in the middle of the seemommyrun pack. Jill finished well after me, but apparently her friend Amy was part of a collision at Mile 2---but they made it to the end anyway.
I feel great now. No real aches and pains, but I suspect I may lose the right toenail. I do have a gash in my left side. I think it was from the cellphone band I wore until Mile 13. Oh well. I am ready for the next one. Dublin 2010? Or maybe another MCM so that this time I can actually finish ahead of Kermi (he passed me with Miss Piggy, a new entry, at Mile 13) and the juggler (who dropped his balls after passing me on the bridge).
I am so greatful I have the world's best husband and the greatest friends on the planet...and a very understanding little boy, who did his best to figure out why mommy ran right past him.
But, Harry got to enjoy a day of his own on the 31st. He stayed home from school and went for a bike ride to the bagel place where we got to spend some more time with Aunt Meg. Grandmom came over shortly after, and we also got to see Tara again. We played around the house all afternoon, "talking on the phone" and practicing jumping. Lance came over at 5 and we were all set for the Halloween Parade.
The Hart's, the peopel we bought our house from, appeared right before we headed over. They brought their little chicken, Eve. She was the cutest! The Monkey and the Pirate followed and we headed to Quincy Avenue/Road/ Street were the parade started. By the time we winded down Monroe, we ran into Tara and some neighbors we knew, Belinda, Anita & Tres & their family, William's family, the people who held Oktoberfest, and a bunch of others. Everyone was taking pictures, and it looked like one of the scenes from ET or Mr. Mom when all of the kids are out Trick or Treating. I always wanted to be a part of that!
Harry got some special treats from Anita next door. He actually walked up to their house himself, quickly figuring things out. We then went to the first house across the street. Harry proceeded to step inside and close the door---with Mommy, Lance and Lola on the outside! Luckily, everyone thought it was funny and we moved on. We stuck to 6 houses on the Cul-de-sac, and Lanec and Harry quit to indulge in some fruit snacks. Good thing we'd already met the people who had supplied the treats!
Harry was happy to carry his embroidered pumpkin "purse" from Aunt Toni. Luckily, he has been practicing the purse carrying, so it came in handy. He can also count to 1 (3 actually, but he actually says "one"), so some of the time he took only 1 candy, and even put it in his bag (some of the time). He had a blast, but by 6:39 wanted to do nothing more than sleep...which he did for the next 12 hours without a sound, waking up to find toys that our dearly departed had left for him (from Pier 1) on their way to the Underworld.
Happy Samhain.
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