tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58169971434227232722024-01-28T10:42:53.664-05:00Adventures in EmilyWorldEmilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393383710844928953noreply@blogger.comBlogger177125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5816997143422723272.post-80514394160867056062015-01-01T22:11:00.000-05:002015-01-01T22:11:55.936-05:00Just Like That, It's 2015! I highly doubt anyone even reads this thing anymore. But I really wanted to just check in for posterity's sake.<br />
We made it through 2014!<br />
That's about it on that topic. To be honest, I like the idea of moving forward. 2014 was not a super exciting year for us for the most part, and we just sort of got by. Raising two little kids is tiring and I still don't get how people do it with more kids. But 2015 will be better. The kids are getting easier (sort of - we're working on it with Lena), and I've started a new job!<br />
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This is what I really wanted to document here. The beginning.<br />
I became a fashion consultant for LuLaRoe in October. If you haven't heard of it, it's an affordable fashionable clothing line, and as a consultant, you do "pop-up boutiques". I carry a big ol' inventory of clothing that I've fallen in love with and I bring it to people's homes, businesses, or I do open houses.<br />
It has been amazing. Dare I say, life changing. Maybe I'll stick to "it changed my last 3 months." But 2015? Things will be different. I was able to pay off my initial investment in under 6 weeks just by hosting home boutiques. I qualified for the incentive CRUISE in under 3 months. I am starting to build a team of consultants. It is absolutely so exciting and I cannot wait to see what the future holds.<br />
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I hustled my buns off those first three months to set a good foundation. I thought things might slow down, but they are sort of snowballing and that's why I look forward to growing my team. It's just so in demand and I can't meet everyone's needs by myself. :) </div>
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I'm working on my goals, and for many when they start something like this, it's to hopefully quit their full time job so they can spend more time with family. I was happy to have the opportunity to socialize with fun women while making some money at the same time. It's been so good for my family as I have gathered my sense of self a bit. Feeling like I'm contributing to my family in a more tangible way has proven to be a good feeling for me. </div>
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After we had Lena, I struggled with postpartum depression in a pretty big way. It creeps up every now and again and I find myself having a very difficult time managing just the day to day. I talked with my doctor about medications, switching medications, etc and it was so expensive. </div>
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I decided I couldn't afford it. I would figure out how to deal. Since I've started this business, I no longer feel the suffocating weight of merely carrying on on a daily basis. I feel. so. good. (most of the time. ;) ) I just needed to write this down, because I realized it just the other day. I have confidence again about being a provider for our family, I feel like I'm showing my daughters something valuable by starting a business and working hard. Don't get me wrong, staying at home with them is really a gift. I absolutely do not take it for granted. We snuggle in my bed in the morning, and I don't need to worry about calling into work if someone is sick. But I can also bring in an income without sacrificing those special times. </div>
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I just feel like I've found a really good thing, and in another year, I wonder how different things might be.</div>
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Oh, and my pitch: follow me over at www.facebook.com/lakesidelularoe or shoot me an email if you are interested in the opportunity. </div>
Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393383710844928953noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5816997143422723272.post-37105105848835159702014-09-30T22:22:00.000-04:002014-09-30T22:24:39.097-04:00Fall Fun and Basket MisfortuneSo Fall has officially arrived around these parts. Well, if you call 80 degrees and sunny and running through the sprinkler "fall-like." I know these warm days are coming to an end, and I'm more than ready for it.<br />
We've still been doing our traditional fall-day activities, but we just do them while sweaty and wearing flip flops.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lena does whatever Charlotte does.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We recently went to a nearby orchard to pick some apples. When we arrived, I got the feeling they weren't offering U-Pick, but the owner had mercy on me and my sweet children and allowed us to pick from a few trees. She handed the girls their baskets and they promptly stuck them on their heads. Well. Lena had the brilliant idea of hooking the metal handle under her chin, which resulted in the basket falling forward and covering her eyes. If you know two year olds, you might understand that they might freak out. If you know Lena, you know she will set the world on fire with her shrieks of terror. That basket was so wedged on her head, the owner came over and tried unhooking the handle from the basket. Lena was screaming with her mouth wide open (eyes covered by basket), and the wider open her mouth was, the more impossible it was to get that handle from beneath her chubby chin. Eventually I got her to relax and we popped it right off without having to butter her head like DJ Tanner and Kimmy Gibbler did to that Brian kid they babysat in 1990. </span><br />
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Fortunately that didn't scare her enough to get right down to apple pickin business. Which to her, mostly meant throwing them to the friendly dog that was following us around. </div>
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Over the weekend we also visited a farm near our house. I love this place because there's never a crowd (unless there's a field trip!), no entry fee, and you can feed and pet animals. It's such a funny old farm and sort of creepy, but we saw a hipster couple show up so we felt like it was probably a cool place to be. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">lil squirt</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charlotte got to feed a baby goat! (So did I, and I was WAY more excited.)</td></tr>
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That's the small update for now. I'll share more later when it hits the fan....which inevitably will be very soon. :) </div>
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What's your favorite activity to do with your kids in the fall? I want to do a hayride or the Coopersville Pumpkin Train, but I'm not sure it's worth it. If you've gone, let me know! </div>
Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393383710844928953noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5816997143422723272.post-81752179850785488242014-09-15T20:44:00.002-04:002014-09-15T20:47:09.158-04:00Toddler Birthdays and Losing My Ever Loving Mind<span style="font-family: inherit;">You know that feeling when you wake up and you're all "I have absolutely no idea what day it could even be." Like it feels like it's a new day of the week that's never even been invented. A brand new unknown day of the week that has no assignment. No work, no church, no school, no sleeping in. Just strange and confusing.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">That was this morning.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">My husband leaned over and gave me a smooch goodbye while I was still sleeping this morning. I never even woke with his alarm. I was all "<i>Where</i> are you going?!" Like accusing him of having plans on a day that doesn't even exist.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Then I snapped back into reality and realized it was Monday, Lena's 2nd birthday.</span><br />
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Under most circumstances, I would not forget it was my child's birthday. But then again I've only been doing this mom thing for not even 4 years. I have plenty of years ahead to forget about birthdays. But so far, I haven't forgotten any. In fact, I usually have a good plan as to how we'll celebrate. Today was different. We've had a crazy 5 days with Lena getting super sick, Charlotte had a really high fever and was stumbling around like a drunk and I almost brought her in. Between dealing with clingy, sad, pissed off little kids and cleaning up vomit, losing sleep and canceling Lena's birthday party because of hand, foot, and mouth disease, my brain has been in a bit of a fog. Maybe I also have the virus and have lesions on my brain.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipsarL6cL-pZWcqh_VwRjFpOOoRhJj1qHivt5gb-ibR-L7Kaxq_grszLZ_4mdPQNcWzBaD8JTc0zMglRBL1q5kTsDSGV7M1kfZyC-7CNMqmXAyJNnF98sIXKoUvLApJ92qNNpr_XFkuwr9/s1600/photo+1+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipsarL6cL-pZWcqh_VwRjFpOOoRhJj1qHivt5gb-ibR-L7Kaxq_grszLZ_4mdPQNcWzBaD8JTc0zMglRBL1q5kTsDSGV7M1kfZyC-7CNMqmXAyJNnF98sIXKoUvLApJ92qNNpr_XFkuwr9/s1600/photo+1+(3).JPG" height="400" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">This never happens</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoPzhhLH-pi4vvRaQ2-y_gYl9Pc8GYEEHH1tB3gzHNlKR7habHUMyeN9FKSsG1dvYJrs5id36iuyUz5aO5_7Qb4-tmsyQfoHck2D7Z3-3qf3JY18fKcn3TVC8KrQK9s6tJ75nLMGPyK_lO/s1600/photo+2+(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoPzhhLH-pi4vvRaQ2-y_gYl9Pc8GYEEHH1tB3gzHNlKR7habHUMyeN9FKSsG1dvYJrs5id36iuyUz5aO5_7Qb4-tmsyQfoHck2D7Z3-3qf3JY18fKcn3TVC8KrQK9s6tJ75nLMGPyK_lO/s1600/photo+2+(5).JPG" height="400" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">They give me so much love</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">This REALLY never happens</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Once we got the day started, it was fairly normal but out of our normal routine since I couldn't take the girls to the gym KidZone. I made the traditional birthday pancake and it was actually well received despite their normal attitude when I present them with a delicious meal. Maybe I should serve more meals with whipped cream from a can.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjrgoqUvpV8lJghddOvCBe4ymlf2Abu81YZ0P08RsRrHffDqRNA0XnJd69OQLCi0gVpk1QXNQZergn0zirNvKs7NyNSrPi7GA4-f1M_1tTwIFVAPKLLvIHTf8KUUT-BpyzR5_5JIPRS77c/s1600/photo+4+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjrgoqUvpV8lJghddOvCBe4ymlf2Abu81YZ0P08RsRrHffDqRNA0XnJd69OQLCi0gVpk1QXNQZergn0zirNvKs7NyNSrPi7GA4-f1M_1tTwIFVAPKLLvIHTf8KUUT-BpyzR5_5JIPRS77c/s1600/photo+4+(2).JPG" height="400" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">After doing awesome mom stuff like changing gross diapers, I decided it was time to call the doctor about some interesting #2s Lena's been having since she was sick. Her dukes are straight up black. I know that that can mean blood, but I wanted to wait it out to see if it cleared up. It didn't. So I called and they wanted to get her in asap. I stayed calm, but was still pretty concerned about the outcome - it could be so many different things. It tested positive for blood and the doctor said it's not typical, but it could be that she has the hand, foot and mouth lesions down the bottom of her throat. It's common to have the sores inside the throat, but usually not down into the upper GI. He did not seem overly concerned, given that Lena was in good spirits and eating and drinking normally. We just need to give it more time at this point. What a fun way to spend her birthday!</span><br />
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Then we met up with my husband for a birthday lunch and also to spread germs to as many strangers as possible. He was on a conference call and ended up being almost 30 minutes late and my debit card was declined because I apparently I am scum. So I waited with two cranky kids at Culvers with no food because I didn't have the funds to pay for it. We had a seat while we waited and they brought out a huge box of crayons and some coloring pages for the girls. So nice!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Once Marcus arrived and was ready to pay, they brought our food out and said "don't worry about it. It's all taken care of." I almost lost it blubbering like a fool, but I kept it to a general "eyes misty with gratitude." It had just been such a crazy morning, I was really taken aback at their kindness.</span><br />
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The main reason we chose Culvers is because CUSTARD. What better birthday treat than frozen custard with sprinkles!</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Focusing on what's important here.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I got the kids home and they both took killer naps, I even snuck one in too because I'm ultra productive. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Since it's Monday, Charlotte now has ballet in the evenings. <span style="background-color: white;">I knew ballet began at 6:00. So I got Charlotte dressed, fixed her ponytail and loaded both her and Lena up. We arrived with a few minutes to spare so I responded to some texts in the parking lot. Once we got to the classroom, I was surprised to see all the little kids prancing about. I asked another parent if it indeed began at 6. She confirmed but then looked at me quizzically and added "it's 6:25 right now."<br />And in that moment, I had that very same feeling I had upon waking this morning. This strange time vortex where I was left bewildered and like I was only one left out of this new way of counting days and time. Everyone else seems to know what's going on but somehow I missed the memo of how time works. My forehead literally hurts from having a confused look about where those 25 minutes before ballet went. These are serious problems, people.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Related: I'm also confused about how my iPhone is autocorrecting "yes" to "Myra." It makes me look even crazier via text. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I'm looking forward to everyone being healthy and me feeling much less insane. Is this even a possibility?</span></div>
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Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393383710844928953noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5816997143422723272.post-36763297472741270122014-09-04T21:45:00.000-04:002014-09-04T21:45:01.304-04:00Preschool Begins!Today Charlotte had her very first day of school!<br />
I woke her up before her cow started dancing ( <a href="http://www.amazon.com/KidSleep-KSCLB-Classic-Blue/dp/B000VVIHPS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1409879457&sr=8-1&keywords=kidsleep+classic+clock" target="_blank">This is what I'm referring to</a> ), and she would not drop the subject until after she had eaten breakfast. That clock, by the way, has been a real helper in getting her to stay in bed longer in the morning and taking a nice rest in the afternoon. We had been struggling for a couple of weeks with tantrums, and since she's better rested, she's much happier.<br /><br />I woke her up with plenty of time to spare because it seems like when I head to the gym at 9:30am (school begins at 8:15) it's basically a shit show for an hour and a half getting those kids ready. Well, I gave her too much time because she was able to ask "is it time to go to school yet?!" one million times before I even woke Lena up.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisdD2zZc1Ae-3V3QJultviw8OCPV7VClADl377Ptaa5lWxwO_1lxJROIP8aeRbqAvgotA35R2zA8txjzkhoMY5rDxHEB93Aql396fhFvxQh3zTZ1ciLOl1FBTRdUDD8slgnLCzUaj6q6zt/s1600/IMG_9911+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisdD2zZc1Ae-3V3QJultviw8OCPV7VClADl377Ptaa5lWxwO_1lxJROIP8aeRbqAvgotA35R2zA8txjzkhoMY5rDxHEB93Aql396fhFvxQh3zTZ1ciLOl1FBTRdUDD8slgnLCzUaj6q6zt/s1600/IMG_9911+(2).JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is what we call her "school smile" where she tries to look at the camera and stand still at the same time. It's very challenging for her.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUoomeWEXPZLsqsTODi75qjwevvsc08G8LAOriSPobgdzh2Fm35Vo15mYbx7NyMbSIjCQtPzt0tRN0pPjr-cDkE_p9DrbzUN5v6mwvZxkDfCoqyqiu_zYNwPxdpXuk1nlYhxcGnzNA1Wi1/s1600/IMG_9916+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUoomeWEXPZLsqsTODi75qjwevvsc08G8LAOriSPobgdzh2Fm35Vo15mYbx7NyMbSIjCQtPzt0tRN0pPjr-cDkE_p9DrbzUN5v6mwvZxkDfCoqyqiu_zYNwPxdpXuk1nlYhxcGnzNA1Wi1/s1600/IMG_9916+(2).JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And one with her umbrella because it was POURING all morning.</td></tr>
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<br />On Tuesday we had a visiting day to get a feel for what the day would be like and I was given instructions to bring 1/4 cup of goldfish crackers to contribute to a special "friendship mix" with her classmates on their first day. I knew I had some goldfish crackers at home but when I went to portion some out, they were staler than styrofoam packing peanuts. So...I just didn't send anything. I felt okay with that choice because....how would they notice that something was missing? I saw a bunch of baggies with goldfish and pretzels and raisins on the counter when I dropped her off, no one would know that my kid didn't bring one in.<div>
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1) It's the first day of school. How am I already doing this??</div>
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2) I didn't feel too bad about it until I was recounting the story with my husband and realized...what if each kid poured in their own little baggie into the friendship mix and Charlotte just sat there. Chin cradled in her hands, just watching her classmates enjoy mixing a big snack to share.<br />3) I should have just packed the stale ones. No one would know they for sure came from my house. I mean, if they ever got to know me, they'd probably be able to piece together that puzzle, but whatever, right?</div>
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Anyway.</div>
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Charlotte did so great at drop off. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She's always happiest not looking at the camera</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I think her teacher is a special woman. Charlotte doesn't too freely hug someone she doesn't really know. (thankfully?)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ok mom. go now.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is before she learned she doesn't get to stay</td></tr>
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<br />Lena helped herself to a spot at the table with all the confidence in the world. She waved and said hello to everyone and when I said it was time to go, she looked at Charlotte, looked at me, and was like "come on Charlotte. Let's go." (in so many words.) <div>
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I headed home with Lena and realized that 2 hours feels like 15 minutes when you're at home doing basically nothing. So I need to plan out those mornings a little better and get something done like get groceries when I only have to take one kid. This is a learning experience for me. </div>
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So that's that. My first born's first day of school in the books. Or on the blog. I don't do books.</div>
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Please tell me a story where you had a basic mom fail. Make me feel better.<br /><div>
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Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393383710844928953noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5816997143422723272.post-82931041374504910052014-08-27T16:30:00.001-04:002014-08-27T16:30:26.012-04:00Is This Thing On?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello? Anyone out there still check this thing?<br />
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It has been MONTHS since I last posted anything here, and to be honest, I haven't really missed it. For a few years I really enjoyed getting my thoughts down. I liked being able to look back on the stages of my life and my kids' lives. And then I stopped liking it. Well, I didn't stop liking memories, I just stopped caring about documenting it all. And I regret it.<br />
It's been 10 months, and a so much has changed.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charlotte! 3.5 - starting preschool next week! </td></tr>
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Charlotte is growing up! She has always been a pretty sweet kid. Easy to get along with, goes with the flow, and overall just good. But something has changed in the last couple of weeks. She's stopped napping most days, and is basically bipolar. She will be sweet and affectionate one moment, and the very next she'll be having a fit about a mosquito, an invisible owie, or having to eat dinner. I'm taking any tips and suggestions I can to get through this phase (it is just a phase...right?!) She loves the color purple...like the actual color. She did not care for the film. She choose the most random things to be her favorite things because they are purple. It's really a great way to bribe her, actually. We are both excited for her to start school next week. It's only a couple of days a week, and only for a couple of hours. But she's such a little sponge and I really think she'll do great. <div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEdn_qL2fNodbZpcuCKxAceL5sA3lVzSJUaiAFkn4rzZxqP8QStgSowar3dqF4hAkP7Vf0dpkOSPGe9OCtUpKmqQtGzoo3xJx9ePbbM9okGesJ97CVrRNxlIH7V4sOTqAU65byAhCklZJB/s1600/photo+2+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEdn_qL2fNodbZpcuCKxAceL5sA3lVzSJUaiAFkn4rzZxqP8QStgSowar3dqF4hAkP7Vf0dpkOSPGe9OCtUpKmqQtGzoo3xJx9ePbbM9okGesJ97CVrRNxlIH7V4sOTqAU65byAhCklZJB/s1600/photo+2+(2).JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lena! 2.5 weeks shy of 2 years old!</td></tr>
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<br />Lena is growing up even more. She is getting to be much easier. Yes, she still has her moments, but overall, she passed her tantrum torch to Charlotte, and when Charlotte's done, she'll pass it back I'm sure. Lena is hilarious. She loves getting a laugh, and is very expressive. She talks a ton, which is so strange for me since Charlotte had a bit of a speech delay. She's also bigger than Charlotte was at this age and at this rate, Charlotte will be getting Lena's hand me downs. She still loves to cuddle which is one of my favorite things, but if I bring her someplace to play she can't wait to get away from me. The farther away, the better for her. I'll catch her watching me but if I make eye contact with her, she goes even farther. <div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihLy4gCKJ_iqSsL4M8IoNR7HQ72dJhve63IvbL-aHFXvO6OJr5a4KT7djiGdIl-DwKQ9DVsHjPz_YyeEDATRHnQNXu9iqiYgv9-Px8KSPtrVijZ0ojPk510twQ_NdPMffs8Opid_2abjGJ/s1600/IMG_0648.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihLy4gCKJ_iqSsL4M8IoNR7HQ72dJhve63IvbL-aHFXvO6OJr5a4KT7djiGdIl-DwKQ9DVsHjPz_YyeEDATRHnQNXu9iqiYgv9-Px8KSPtrVijZ0ojPk510twQ_NdPMffs8Opid_2abjGJ/s1600/IMG_0648.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Darby! Such a regal looking hound.</td></tr>
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<br />Darby. She's still around and kickin'! Darby is 6 and even with the progression of her mast cell tumors, she is still doing alright. I really had no idea how much time we would have with her after last summer. But very little has changed. And we love her still the same. :)<div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjZ0a9BbtRUPIqZ8A6BZHTPnxlx8IX0BbL_IDRIqTx_y4hu8NzVIcRXtgg5EimVvC6LCbd55vlzA41pMoC3PlsjHdGM7LkFtzXTiweUejo0LIRKxBBEngnNNCMhIsx69Ezud2d3ftTi1Mb/s1600/18cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjZ0a9BbtRUPIqZ8A6BZHTPnxlx8IX0BbL_IDRIqTx_y4hu8NzVIcRXtgg5EimVvC6LCbd55vlzA41pMoC3PlsjHdGM7LkFtzXTiweUejo0LIRKxBBEngnNNCMhIsx69Ezud2d3ftTi1Mb/s1600/18cropped.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">and my main man Marcus is still hanging around too. :) </td></tr>
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<br />I will attempt to blog more often in the next year. With Charlotte in school, I might have a little more time here and there where I can sit down to update. I know I'll want to look back on some of the notable things that are bound to happen while our children are young. <div>
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That's my lame update for now. I do frequently share on Instagram and you can find me here: http://instagram.com/ering82 I do keep it private, but don't hesitate to request me!</div>
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Stay tunes for more thrilling shenanigans. </div>
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I don't think I've ever spelled shenanigans correctly on my first try.</div>
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Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393383710844928953noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5816997143422723272.post-59399241496618363702013-12-20T11:59:00.002-05:002013-12-20T11:59:58.269-05:00Blog Hiatus/Life UpdateI took some time off from blogging, I've been stressed out! Oh, silly stay at home mom, what is there to be stressed about?!<br />
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Well basically, I have a baby/toddler who just never stops crying and whining. I took her to the doctor a few different times and she's always fine, so basically I was scraping by each day, completely burnt out by evening. But of course, it's in my nature that once she gives me a smile (or goes to bed), I forget all about the day's challenges and feel like I can face another day.<br />
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However. I just took her to her pediatrician for her 15 month well child visit. She, like many kids her age, is not a huge fan of strangers sticking their face inches from hers and poking and messing with her. So when I was explaining that she's very cranky, not walking, not cruising along furniture, and will only stand up on her terms, the doctor tried to get a look. That didn't go over well, and I joked that maybe if she came to our house, on Lena's turf, it may go better. That's when she recommended a home visit from Early On to have someone assess her and hopefully get us in the right direction.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQZuJ6CIta68wONCTLVVEb8ce72ifkDowYLhmW3FTLUquwHv7-I3_1pUglCyY7F7i_Kj2Icb4YheoO9ze9GSCghvoF9FGvIMJwwzB2bJyC3rAGXtZKIvMA4utn28xWlIhShkDptJy8NDou/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQZuJ6CIta68wONCTLVVEb8ce72ifkDowYLhmW3FTLUquwHv7-I3_1pUglCyY7F7i_Kj2Icb4YheoO9ze9GSCghvoF9FGvIMJwwzB2bJyC3rAGXtZKIvMA4utn28xWlIhShkDptJy8NDou/s400/photo+4.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She can get into things...but can't always get out.</td></tr>
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I put in a request at Early On, and as soon as I clicked submit, Lena started cruising along the couch. Taking just a step or two. That was 3 days ago. Today, she's climbing the stairs (just a set of 3), crawling to the piano, standing by the bench and reaching for the keys. She's climbing into Charlotte's little chair, and today I taught her how to scoot down the stairs! You guys. Since she's been moving around more, she's been SO much happier! I feel like a new woman, and I'm sure she's happier too.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKmcMUN2m8nfmPMb2ruURiU_B-UJ6KiSfAdt6nnrkK5dL5XpUbz2grRiQ10kRoV9FVP8ATEd5mGOA22IRTOwysJVs8_rS2_OaRfZu3rqaCA56kWon3tb-NIX9w0JdIxy8p2BTkzOWuTtMw/s1600/photo+2+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKmcMUN2m8nfmPMb2ruURiU_B-UJ6KiSfAdt6nnrkK5dL5XpUbz2grRiQ10kRoV9FVP8ATEd5mGOA22IRTOwysJVs8_rS2_OaRfZu3rqaCA56kWon3tb-NIX9w0JdIxy8p2BTkzOWuTtMw/s400/photo+2+(3).JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I may not be able to get up here on my own, but I've already composed 2 sonatas.</td></tr>
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When Charlotte was Lena's age, she was doing all kinds of crazy stuff, and I was 3 or 4 months pregnant at the time. She seemed like such a big girl to me. The thought of having a baby 5 months from now is quite horrifying to me, but if she keeps getting happier...perhaps a new conversation will be had. :) or not.<br />
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If she keeps up with this easy-to-manage streak, I may just update a little more frequently. or not.<br />
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<br />Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393383710844928953noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5816997143422723272.post-11637956626186390892013-10-07T21:36:00.001-04:002013-10-07T22:25:04.954-04:00It All Balances OutYesterday was my birthday (Hint: my age rhymes with schthirtybun) and I had a fabulous weekend celebrating!<br />
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On Friday night, Marcus threw a wonderful party it was so great to see so many friends in one place! Some highlights include a friend trying to convince me that she ate her placenta and another friend accusing me of having a conversation with my Latin lover right in front of my husband. The assumed lover was my brother. I also discovered that many people are vehemently against taking selfies.<br />
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Saturday night I headed to the casino with my neighbors and was somewhat of an 11th wheel, because my husband stayed home with the kids so we didn't need to get a babysitter 3 nights in a row. I sat down to play Family Guy slots and within a couple of minutes I won a bonus game!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgakWSiTMAP18Fj7kgmZxypOCqA7R_X-8klYyuzW7xNcwID55fpLVSqyaXkoYRQV6ZH3zGKS4J1cDPwHNaRcSj7wC7CEMF34bOAFuOAQnx-Y6U05uWA9akYjasqgUJQN-MOKWIgQ5iumrlp/s1600/IMG_5911.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgakWSiTMAP18Fj7kgmZxypOCqA7R_X-8klYyuzW7xNcwID55fpLVSqyaXkoYRQV6ZH3zGKS4J1cDPwHNaRcSj7wC7CEMF34bOAFuOAQnx-Y6U05uWA9akYjasqgUJQN-MOKWIgQ5iumrlp/s400/IMG_5911.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I chose Chicken. And won $75!</td></tr>
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Since I won right off the bat, I just walked around awkwardly, waiting for my friends to win/lose enough to be done.<br />
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And to cap off the exciting weekend, Marcus took me to see Jersey Boys on Sunday night. We saw it in Chicago when I was about 4 months pregnant with Lena and I was so tired from shopping/growing a human, that I dozed off during the show for a little bit, so I was glad I was given a second chance! I loved how I could tell Marcus was trying his darndest to keep from singing the songs out loud. It's not so much that he's such a theater nerd, he just likes Frankie Valli. </div>
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But like all good things, they must come to an end. And that brings me to today. I needed to get groceries. It's normally not that big of a deal. I don't love taking the kids, but it usually goes just fine. But today? Murphy's Law took over and was determined to crush my spirit.</div>
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Everything was just pissing me off. From the drivers in the parking lot, pulling out in front of me and taking the spot I was driving towards, to Charlotte getting out of the van and splashing into a giant puddle.</div>
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We walked in the store to grab a cart with the attached bench, but the woman in front of me with her seemingly capable 5 year old took the last one. *deep breath.* So we walked to the other side of the store to see if there was one there. There was not. We walked back. Every single regular cart was dripping wet from the rain. I wipe it down with my shirt sleeves. </div>
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As I'm trying to navigate the produce aisles, it feels as if there was maybe an retirement home's day out because all these octogenarians are standing around shootin the shit like what else would you be doing by the grapes, pears, berries, and bananas. </div>
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Ok. I get it. It's not everyone else, it's totally me. I know I'm the one with the problem today, but I don't think I was looking for things to be annoyed by, the annoying things were pushed up into my face.</div>
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Parallel walkers down the aisles? don't set your cruise control and just putz along beside me. Either pass or stop. Am I the only one who finds it really awkward to be walking carts side by side in the same direction? Just STAHP IT.</div>
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Then. THEN. This. Everywhere. </div>
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Had I known that Mondays at 11am were the times when every shelf is being stocked, I may have reconsidered my timing. </div>
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The one redeeming and slightly embarrassing factor of the trip was Lena trying to keep things interesting by going wild.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the more inappropriate versions of "Where's Lena??"</td></tr>
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Since she doesn't like to be "messed with" I often don't bother with a onesie beneath her outfits, but I guess if we're going out in public, maybe I should consider it next time.<br />
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Over all, the kids behaved pretty well even though we didn't have the bench for Charlotte to sit on. She rearranged the salad dressings and would sit down on a shelf or the floor anytime I took a little too long deciding what to pick out. And to end the trip, we always have to ride the penny pony. Fortunately that was in working order, otherwise we all may have ended the trip with tears.</div>
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Oh, and as we're walking out, Charlotte starts whining because look:</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carts with benches. Charlotte's fave.</td></tr>
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Of course it was pouring as we were leaving but I ran out of all craps to give while I was shopping. Lena kept slapping her own face with delight when she was getting rained on and Charlotte prancercised all the way to the car, so we all made it through just fine.<br />
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So what it comes down to is that if I have a *too* wonderful weekend, it will indeed balance out for me.<br />
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Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393383710844928953noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5816997143422723272.post-49758709873430976222013-10-02T14:48:00.003-04:002013-10-02T14:50:22.911-04:00Fall Fun The weather here has been so nice the past few weeks! They say it's "unseasonably" warm, but the last several years it's stayed warm into October. The polar bears love it.<br />
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We've been trying to take advantage of the warm weather and smaller crowds now that everyone's kids are in school, so our schedule has been jam packed.<br />
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I'm trying to just accept the fact that I have an uber cranky baby and just move forward with my life, but each day poses as an opportunity for Lena to spaz for no reason. I've found that taking her out and getting into the nice weather is usually the solution to this problem. I've also learned that if things are going well, I just need to let sleeping dogs lie and not call attention to myself by taking pictures of her or letting her know that I still exist.<br />
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There's a little farm down the street from us that has some fun fall activities and animals that you can feed. They have a little shop in their barn that is mostly creepy but I got a bunch of honey crisp apples for way less than the grocery store, so I guess I can handle this watching me as I shop around:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBLTTQWrGdW0qVylEEg22hys8L25Fhl8dE4Iw7sBMqEZGTd15HT8O2PCmWV8Fh-hS1zLLt0BCIP52z7ctpnm8TOFgV-dkzLaqzFf16JzN05acA6nabA3zxZHoWdB6HO9qLZJDEnVK_QMfq/s1600/IMG_5608.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBLTTQWrGdW0qVylEEg22hys8L25Fhl8dE4Iw7sBMqEZGTd15HT8O2PCmWV8Fh-hS1zLLt0BCIP52z7ctpnm8TOFgV-dkzLaqzFf16JzN05acA6nabA3zxZHoWdB6HO9qLZJDEnVK_QMfq/s400/IMG_5608.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She has reverse vitiligo on her face. </td></tr>
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We also visited the zoo, had lunch while we watched airplanes take off and land at the airport, checked out Art Prize, and had the time of our lives at the Grand Rapids Oktoberfest.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lena surprisingly loved the loud music and dancing!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lottie made friends on the dance floor and they copied whatever the other was doing.<br />
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Charotte was so excited about "going dancing" and she danced for close to 2 hours. When it was time to eat, she would boogie with tears streaming down her face saying "just wanna dance!" It was awesome.<br />
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In unrelated fall fun stories, this morning Lena was wailing about nothing in particular when I realized she had called a neighbor (and friend - so it's not completely absurd) on my phone. I grabbed the phone from her and promptly disconnected without checking to see if my friend was on the other end. Well of course, she immediately calls me back. Since it was morning and I hadn't yet had my coffee or whatever other excuse I can find, I was having a hard time putting words together as I tried to explain that my shrieking 1 year old didn't dial her because of an emergency. But it probably wasn't that convincing because I couldn't form a coherent phrase. I believe the first thing I uttered was "sorry she called me."</div>
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I hadn't gotten much sleep because of the unknown metamorphosis my baby is undergoing so I sounded like an idiot. Imagine getting a phone call at 7:30 am and hearing a baby shouting at you on the other end. That's no way to start the day. So for that, Kim, I apologize. And also welcome to my life.</div>
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Okay really. Will the crabbiness ever stop? We've had a couple good weeks here and there, but she is persistent in letting me know that this will be her personality for the rest of her life. </div>
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Did you have a cranky baby that morphed into a gentle butterfly of a toddler? Make up a story if you have to.</div>
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Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393383710844928953noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5816997143422723272.post-6022218149173476582013-09-23T16:05:00.000-04:002013-09-23T16:07:33.096-04:00Immunizations for Cranky PantsLast Friday, I took the girls to the doctor for Lena's one year visit and surprise, they both got immunizations! Charlotte got the Flumist nasal spray flu shot and Lena got 4 bad boys in her pudgy arms. We've never dealt with any major side effects after shots besides an occasional low grade fever and extra sleepiness.<br />
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Because of that, I didn't expect this round to be much different. Well, if you don't recall, I am a fool.<br />
Saturday evening my mom watching the girls while we were away and she mentioned the Lena had been crying on and off for a few hours after 10pm. That's not normal, and if it does happen, I know it's not magically going to stop once I bring her home. She was up early and absolutely freaking out. I got up a few times before I <strike>demanded </strike> asked nicely that my husband get up and take a turn. He got her back to sleep after about 20 minutes, and shortly after she woke again. It was about 7am, and since we were out pretty late, neither of us was too thrilled to begin the day. Lena didn't seem ready to be up since she was so angry. I'm talking arching her back, trying to throw herself out of my arms angry. I'm trying to soothe her, doing all the things that normally work, when suddenly my husband comes into her dark room singing The Itsy Bitsy Spider. I thought maybe he was sleep walking or on drugs, but evidently that's how he got her to chill an hour earlier. It didn't work this time around. I convinced myself at one point that she was having an adverse reaction to her shots and that she was going to have to stay in the hospital and our lives would forever be changed. But then I sat with her outside in the cool weather and she finally chilled. (HA GET IT?)<br />
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We went back inside and she sat down and played like she wasn't just possessed for hours.<br />
This has happened twice since yesterday morning. She's been up 5-6 times at night, and taking crappy naps. I blamed it on the shots, but after she skipped her afternoon nap today and freaked out instead, I called the doctor (mostly so I could tell them that I hate them). They did explain that since she got two new ones that she hasn't had before, that could explain it. She also said she just talked with a mom who said her one year old was cranky for a week after her shots.<br />
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On top of Lena's crankiness, Charlotte got a high fever (103*) yesterday and was moaning and whining and had a runny nose. So thanks Flumist for wrecking my Sunday recovery day from our fun night out.<br />
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Speaking of fun night out, we were guests at the Metro Health Hospital Foundation dinner. It was a black tie event so we got all dressed up like we were important people.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">she looks like one of those rap guys' girlfriends.</td></tr>
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I actually rented my dress from <a href="http://www.renttherunway.com/referral/emily.ringnalda" target="_blank">Rent the Runway</a> and highly recommend it! If you do end up needing to rent, you can get $20 off by using that link, by the way. :) I definitely don't have any use for full length gowns in my closet, and even if I did attend more fancy events, we all know I wouldn't wear the same dress. </div>
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Do your kids get cranky after they have shots or are you a good parent who chooses to not poison your children? </div>
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Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393383710844928953noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5816997143422723272.post-50074999844950737262013-09-15T20:11:00.000-04:002013-09-15T20:11:00.084-04:00Lena is ONE!Just like that, our little squishy, dimpled baby is a year old.<br />
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But it wasn't "just like that."<br />
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It was year that was not a walk in the park. I mean, we took walks in parks. And I took pictures like omg look what fun! But it was not always fun.<br />
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From the start, Lena proved that if she was one thing, it's inconsistent. We would have great weeks and even months, where I had her figured out, and then something mysterious would occur where she'd do a 180 and cry and whine about everything.<br />
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She's always been quick to smile, she's always loved to snuggle, and I've always been her favorite. These things haven't changed.<br />
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I look forward to things becoming easier, and I hold onto the hope that they will, but I do look back on her days as a small baby fondly. There's something about having another kid that makes you realize how quickly they actually do grow up, and suddenly I'm sounding like the old church lady that tells you to "just enjoy every minute because it goes so quickly". So although it was one of the more challenging years of my adult life, I do remember the sweet moments too.<br />
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People had told me that when your kids are close in age, that first year is a blur, and it really was. With Charlotte, I could look at any picture, and tell you exactly how old she was. I knew the activities and the milestones that occurred in each of her months.<br />
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I DON'T HAVE A CLUE this time around. In all honesty, I'm glad Lena doesn't do much because I wouldn't remember when she reached her epic milestone. What I do know is that we've all made it through unscathed and I'm ready for our next year with her, because it definitely gets more fun now.<br />
I mean...it does, right?<br />
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While I will miss those soft newborn cuddles, I am more than ready for the next year. </div>
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<br />Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393383710844928953noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5816997143422723272.post-44236833859602975682013-08-14T22:06:00.000-04:002013-08-14T22:06:07.629-04:00Tough Choices and Child AbandonmentSeveral weeks ago my husband and I made plans to go away for a long weekend with friends up north. <i>Sans children.</i> We arranged for my parents to watch the girls and the dog, and we originally thought we'd bring them over Friday late afternoon and pick them up Sunday. Then we find out that we could technically leave sooner, like Friday morning. So I ask my mom if that works. It would. Then, <i>one couple</i> was so enthusiastic, they wanted to leave Thursday evening. I ask my mom again, and she was fine with it. I think I was more nervous about leaving than my mom was to watch them, but it was our first trip away since Lena was born, and she's not exactly the easiest baby on earth.<br />
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On Wednesday evening, I hear Lena cough a little bit over the baby monitor. Offfffff course she gets a cough before we're supposed to go away. Her cough was really loud and barky. She slept fine through the night but around 5:30 on Thursday morning, she wakes up and she has the most horrible wheeze I've ever heard.<br />
She's pretty worked up, so as I'm trying to calm her down, I called the pediatrician's answering service. I'm waiting for like 10 minutes, and saw screw it, I'm taking her to the emergency room. I knew it sounded like croup, but it was taking so long for her to calm her breathing. I took her outside, but it wasn't cold enough to change her breathing. Marcus convinced not to take her to the ER, she was calming down, just give it a little more time. Her lips weren't blue, but her face was quite pale. As she coughed again, the whole routine started over again. Once she was calm again, I called the on call doctor again, got a hold of him right away this time, and he said I could either go to the ER or wait until the office opened in a couple of hours. Since Lena had fallen back asleep, I decided to just wait. I had taken a video to show her doctor in case her breathing was completely fine by the time she had her visit. Knowing that I had plans to go away, I wanted to find out how serious the thought it was and if it was still ok.<br />
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That's not crying, it's breathing. Scary sounding, no?</div>
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Of course when we went to the doctor's office, she was much better sounding. They did prescribe her a steroid and I don't know if they would have done it based on her current condition or based on what she sounded like, but I am SO glad they gave us something. The doctor encouraged me to go away for the weekend, and the croup is much scarier sounding than it is, and my mom would be able to handle it. </div>
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So not only was like "hey mom, watch my kids. watch them sooner. wait now watch them even sooner. here's my sick kid! oh and my dog too!"</div>
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Turns out, everything was fine! My mom told me that Lena did great, slept all night was mostly chipper. </div>
She told me she wasn't lying either. I was able to get away for a nice long weekend without feeling *too* guilty about it.<br />
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So basically this is a PSA for new moms whose kids haven't been sick yet. This is what croup can sound like. Ask for a steroid and you won't be terrified. Because I know everything there is to know about all babies and all respiratory illnesses.<br />
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Would you still go away if your kid got sick in the last minute? Am I horrible mother?!<br />
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<br />Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393383710844928953noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5816997143422723272.post-82127704598827207052013-08-05T13:32:00.000-04:002013-08-05T13:32:04.369-04:00I am That Mom.My kids are <i>those </i>kids.<br />
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We have arrived!<br />
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Today I needed to head to Target to pick up a couple of things and just get out of the house. Lena has been taking a super short morning nap the past two days, and if we don't fill up the time, we all start going a little crazy.<br />
As I pulled into the parking lot, I saw a woman putting away a cart and told her I'd take it from her. She saw me loading up my kids and said "oh wow! you have your hands full!" I replied "Oh, I only have two! ...But I guess I only have two hands, so yes. My hands are full." But I was upbeat and positive, because my kids are just so doggone sweet and angelic and darling and polite.<br />
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We walked into the store, and Charlotte was bee bopping around, Prancercise style:<br />
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She pranced her way over to a Disney Princess shopping cart and was completely fascinated with it. Normally, she has no problem with putting a toy back at the store, but she wanted to push it around. Instead of dealing with a potential spazz attack now, I decided to let her push it around the store while we shopped and then we could put it back later. (I am an idiot.)</div>
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At this point, the only mischief she was getting into was bumping into my cart and saying "Cheers!"</div>
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Any time she sees two like-objects, she clinks them together does a small toast. It's especially great when she bumps shoulders with Lena in a matching outfit.</div>
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I found the items we needed, which included some giant storage containers for their outgrown clothes. The cart was pretty full, and I had the lids of the bins on the rack beneath the cart. It was time for us to check out, which meant it was time to put the beloved princess shopping cart away. </div>
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As we turned down the aisle, Charlotte saw another toy shopping cart and needed to clink them together and shout "cheers!" and while she was putting the less-loved cart back, I secretly took the princess cart and put it back on a high shelf without her noticing. </div>
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A look of panic washed over Charlotte's face as she saw her soul mate-toy went missing. She was calling out for the cart as if it would come wheeling around the corner like her trusty dog. When it didn't appear, she went back for cart #2 and decided that one would do. </div>
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I explained to her that she already has a shopping cart at home. </div>
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<sobs></div>
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I asked her if she brought her money (like $1.25 in change), because she needs money to buy it.</div>
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<says no, sobs more></div>
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I was holding Lena during this time since she was sick of sitting in the cart, and I had to put her back so I could reason with the terrorist. A strange lady approaches and actually <i>helped </i>by playing peek-a-boo with Lena while I attempted to talk Charlotte off the ledge.</div>
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And miracle of miracles, Charlotte got up off the floor (did I mention she was sitting on the floor? Her latest protest position) and we continued on. About 10 steps later, she decides she is not quite done mourning. She throws her body down onto the floor and starts crying some more. </div>
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Lena continues to cry in the cart. </div>
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I'm crouched down trying to get through to the toddler. "I remember when I was little...."</div>
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(This gets her attention EVERY time.) </div>
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"...I would go to the store with my mom. You know, Grandma."<br /><stops crying><br />"It was so hard seeing all of those fun toys at the store without taking them home. But Grandma told me about all of the fun things we could do at home with my toys....." and more lies and more lies and more lies.</div>
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<gets up and starts walking><br />Ten steps later, she begins to wail again. A crabby old woman looks at me and I tell her that I'm just living the dream. She told me that she had two girls "10 and 3/4 months apart". Instead of getting into the nitty gritty of that, I just said "then you know how it goes." And she agreed and went on her way. </div>
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At this point, Charlotte's face is blotchy and red, she's got drool on her shirt and snot dripping down her face. She shoved the cart so that all of the lids to the bins went flying out and scattered across the floor right near the checkout. I'm doing my best not to lose my shit, and I'm getting my items out of the cart to buy.</div>
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I was laughing to the cashier about how I just need to get out of there and as she totaled up my items, I realized I didn't have my debit card. The one that was in my pocket last night. The one that I held and said to a neighbor "I really need to stop putting this in my pocket. I'm just going to forget about it." The one that I put on the counter instead of in my purse "so I would remember it". </div>
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Yes, people. This is my life. I asked if she could suspend the order or whatever so I could run home (thankful, once again, that I live a couple of short miles away). She was able to do so, and I got the whole thing figured out, but seriously.</div>
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I'm afraid that this is becoming the norm, as Charlotte has had meltdowns just about everywhere lately. </div>
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So if you have any coping mechanisms, please do share! I could use all the help I can get. </div>
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<br />Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393383710844928953noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5816997143422723272.post-63623601220891947342013-07-22T14:54:00.001-04:002013-07-22T14:54:32.688-04:00I'm BAAAAAAAAACKHey 35 readers!<br />
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It's been a while since I've documented the thrill ride that is my life, so I figured you're pretty much just dying to know just what on earth I've been up to lately.<br />
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Summer is going really well. It's not nearly as hot as last summer and I'm not 8 months pregnant like last year either, so that right there makes it better. We've been staying pretty busy and the girls are being pretty fun.<br />
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This week we are staying (on and off) at the family cottage, and over the weekend, Marcus and I ran in a 5k that took place a couple miles from the cottage. I didn't train even a little for this thing, but figured since I've been doing TurboFire (a cardio-heavy dvd program) 6x a week, I would be juuuuuust fine. I mean, it's only 3.1 miles. I should be able to do that in 30 minutes <i>easily</i>, and I exercise for at least that long every day. Certainly since I ran cross country 13 years ago I should have no problem whatsoever with running a measly 3.1 miles. I ran a 5k in March after doing a teensy bit of training and I completed it in 31 minutes and it was like 20 degrees outside. Today was comfortably warm, not too hot, and I have lost 10 lbs since March. Obviously, I will win this 5k. or at least get some sort of award for my being so laid back about it.<br />
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Well, "comfortably warm" is like 80* at 8:00 am. I somehow convinced my husband to run with me and not stray, and he took the glory by pushing the double stroller with the kids. It's probably 35 lbs without kids, and another 50 with, so it's not exactly a breeze. However, he was having a hard time running slow enough for me.<br />
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We started off in the back (stroller rules) and had to zip around some of the slower people so we could get in a good groove. I almost started yelling swears at Marcus because he was a good 25 feet in front of me and I couldn't keep up. My heart rate monitor wouldn't stop beeping at me because I was above my target range. I figured it'd balance out once we found a good pace. Well that didn't happen. I was frickin huffing and puffing the whole time and I couldn't believe it. My body felt pretty good, other than a sore knee, but I was so out of breath, running a 9:40 mile. I was pretty disappointed in myself for not feeling stronger than I did. I had a little bit of juice left at the end so I pushed it to the finish and people were cheering "GO STROLLER GUY" and I died a little inside. Like really? Do they not see how fit he is? Do they not see the struggling mother who BORE those adorable little children? WHAT ABOUT ME, PEOPLE. I hit start on my watch as soon we crossed the line, and our "official" finish time was exactly one minute later than that. I'm going with my time since I really wanted to beat 30 minutes.<br />
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I'm glad I didn't have to walk (for more than about 5 seconds at the top of a hill), but am disappointed that I was as out of breath as I was. Sometimes denial is better than the truth.<br />
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We checked our times later in the day and this is what I found:<br /><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2XYNuBfEYEHcTl0MfU8lcNxqr-CrU5GqdjmENTT2C2wsY6fFnsa9FMbbvNHd5EU6a0dNy8v7fFg4-3ddwADWg7C_fJegPDRle0rp04p84UHxiZdUwhLk66adxQhOr9LnJigaMqG_7wa7o/s1600/Fullscreen+capture+7222013+23658+PM.bmp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="104" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2XYNuBfEYEHcTl0MfU8lcNxqr-CrU5GqdjmENTT2C2wsY6fFnsa9FMbbvNHd5EU6a0dNy8v7fFg4-3ddwADWg7C_fJegPDRle0rp04p84UHxiZdUwhLk66adxQhOr9LnJigaMqG_7wa7o/s640/Fullscreen+capture+7222013+23658+PM.bmp.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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FIRST PLACE. FEMALE OPEN WINNERS.<br />
I left without my MEDAL!!!!<br />
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Then I look closer....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF6IylBMa3jNpD6-SStQJMFe4OMCaI_zPZbE3flOu0tASnm-_Ms5XrL6BFWt66JA1o_QAwie_KbNDXGPqaDG2bxqwCvQXTms8X6cdHgmQidjK34Lvw02nk5QzH73rpI_AcmjWNDakatPlD/s1600/Fullscreen+capture+7222013+23658+PM.bmp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="142" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF6IylBMa3jNpD6-SStQJMFe4OMCaI_zPZbE3flOu0tASnm-_Ms5XrL6BFWt66JA1o_QAwie_KbNDXGPqaDG2bxqwCvQXTms8X6cdHgmQidjK34Lvw02nk5QzH73rpI_AcmjWNDakatPlD/s640/Fullscreen+capture+7222013+23658+PM.bmp.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Do you see that? "5K Walk"??? Marcus registered me for the WALK? WALK.<br />
The other thing is, no one else was registered in the walk. It's like they created a special category just for me. Oh, that poor girl. Let's let her get first place by creating a division that no one else can sign up for. That will make that poor mom's day. That poor mom. She looks like she tries hard. She just needs to be recognized. Her husband is so strong for pushing that stroller. He probably gets so much attention because he's so cute. She just needs some extra love. We'll give her first place. IN A WALK.<br />
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The interesting news is that when I scrolled up to look at the age results for the run, I would have come in 5th place (which wasn't last place, jerks) and poor, pathetic fat and slow Marcus came in SECOND TO LAST in his age group. So I will always have that nugget to cherish, even if he was running 3 minutes slower per mile just to stay with me. He's a keeper, that one.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first and last picture we're ever get like this because I'm so over it.</td></tr>
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<br />Do you like organized races or do you prefer gym training/classes over running, like me? <div>
I'd rather do 2 hours of Insanity than run in a stupid race, but I know that won't stop me in like 3 months when I do another 5k I didn't train for.<br /><br /><br /><br />
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Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393383710844928953noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5816997143422723272.post-38853368378942684612013-06-23T21:51:00.001-04:002013-06-23T21:55:22.284-04:00What Am I Doing Wrong?Over the last few weeks, Lena has been more unpredictable than a newborn. At 9 months, I really thought we would have this kid pegged. After all, from what I can remember, Charlotte had gotten much easier around 8 months. She started crawling, had teeth, slept great, very predictable.<br />
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Why wouldn't my next child be identical to my first? Don't people always talk about how every kid is the same? Wait...I think I've got that wrong.<br />
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We had a really great thing going. She'd wake at 7, nap around 9 & 1, bedtime between 6:30-7. She might be crabby every now and again, but whatever.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibVf6jlHZB36KUUaV9csJGB-VnHMTUFAB-YShBKq0njpPS4WSbyaua6U0KPcLsUR_ESNrkCWy8oqcaEyoffMdvp6ysC8jym6g94khKC0Ixg-CfSCwW2XBwBPBRzGQq8pxmb27Pbaxq2IUX/s1600/IMG_3708.JPG+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibVf6jlHZB36KUUaV9csJGB-VnHMTUFAB-YShBKq0njpPS4WSbyaua6U0KPcLsUR_ESNrkCWy8oqcaEyoffMdvp6ysC8jym6g94khKC0Ixg-CfSCwW2XBwBPBRzGQq8pxmb27Pbaxq2IUX/s400/IMG_3708.JPG+(2).JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me? Crabby? Noooo.</td></tr>
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Then she suddenly started sleeping in, sometimes until about 8, and then quietly <strike>playing</strike> plotting to ruin my life until she called for me. I enjoyed the quiet in the morning, since Charlotte is a late sleeper too. Until I realized it meant her nap would be an hour later than normal, and then the afternoon would be all screwy too and omg I'm suddenly losing all control and I won't ever know what she wants when she wants it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5eDhTchVvpezo7t0gqgR7_HSgsyreCVM6tgafP08ZhtnXEWNXkyaW75qlWBixPf6NwBdETeooiS8Ib5BVRwIcEXafOzdr2ajFPlhyphenhyphenrfhx0UZ9oq-_ooN68HXMl4QUwr_fHiZ8EGfVY3P8/s1600/IMG_3631.JPG+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5eDhTchVvpezo7t0gqgR7_HSgsyreCVM6tgafP08ZhtnXEWNXkyaW75qlWBixPf6NwBdETeooiS8Ib5BVRwIcEXafOzdr2ajFPlhyphenhyphenrfhx0UZ9oq-_ooN68HXMl4QUwr_fHiZ8EGfVY3P8/s400/IMG_3631.JPG+(2).JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She thinks I'm sleeping, but I am just one step closer to crushing her spirit.</td></tr>
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We've gotten to a point where if she's happy, I can't make eye contact with her. On any given day, you might see me peek around a corner and dart back if I feel she looked in my direction. I've even stood as still as possible with my back against the wall, waiting for her to bring her attention back to her toy. If she is distracted, I quietly sneak past her and fold laundry in another room.<br />
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Nap and bed time have gone to complete crap. She was a great self soother at about 4-5 months. I'd plop her down in her bed and say peace out, sister. Now she's been known to cry for up to 2 hours. I don't just leave her in there to cry, I try all sorts of things, but I really don't want to create bad habits either. ("bad" being things I won't feel like doing when she's a year old.) </div>
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Also, when she wakes, a pacifier no longer does the trick. She'll cry for several minutes after you pop it back in. </div>
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She's not crawling, standing or pulling herself up yet. She has no signs of teeth. I will blame her sleep disturbances on those things. Once she figures out how to be a little more mobile, she'll be more tuckered out, less fussy during the day, and hopefully it will solve all of our problems. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWDDQU4LlJrZ2vghrwj4CMaye44KcGAErN54sBauPJON9vXXAEkbTeO24WVbKdg3Z5Iz1AhAzCnmvETBmvONNJIiJelrSnpO6V-D1AO3WYRez8QrJX4Q_sKSx1WBl1ro0uZimXJfC5qgWg/s1600/IMG_3628.JPG+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWDDQU4LlJrZ2vghrwj4CMaye44KcGAErN54sBauPJON9vXXAEkbTeO24WVbKdg3Z5Iz1AhAzCnmvETBmvONNJIiJelrSnpO6V-D1AO3WYRez8QrJX4Q_sKSx1WBl1ro0uZimXJfC5qgWg/s400/IMG_3628.JPG+(2).JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I've got her where I want her. She's like putty in my pudgy hands.</td></tr>
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She had her 9 month doctor appointment this week and she looks healthy, despite her odd dimensions. She's pretty much as fat as she is tall. She's in the 10th percentile for height, but the 75% for weight, and the 90% (!!) for her alien shaped head. She's just so different from Charlotte and I need to stop comparing them, but I refuse to believe that my two children will be so different.<br />
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I mean look at them, they're practically twins. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yeah, they're almost 2 years apart, but their heads are the same size and they almost weigh the same too.<br />
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I'm hoping whatever crap phase we're currently going through will pass soon, but in the meantime, I'm thankful for warm weather where I can pour a glass of wine and sit outside for a few minutes while she figures out that she needs to go to sleep without her mother doing 15 simultaneous soothing rituals.<br />
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In all honesty, I think we sometimes expect too much of her and forget that she's still a little baby. But her time is running out. She's got 3 months until she's no longer considered a little baby. So live it up, baby. Because soon? I will be in charge again. Right? omg. <i>RIGHT?</i></div>
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Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393383710844928953noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5816997143422723272.post-89619700846150562792013-05-24T15:57:00.001-04:002013-05-24T15:57:04.627-04:00Rules for BabysittingIn the last several months, we've branched out a bit and had a few "strangers" babysit the girls. Of course I learned a bit about them and asked lots of questions before we had them watch them, and so far it really has been good for us.<br />
The girls who have helped out have been between 18-22. About two years ago, I had a neighbor's daughter come babysit Charlotte as an infant. The babysitter was 12 (ish). She came over with a little binder with questionnaires and a list of phone numbers for me to fill out. I mean, this is big time, people. She's going to take over the biz.<br />
<br />
Here are some things that the 18-22 crowd can learn from the tween.<br />
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<ol>
<li> Ask me questions. Let me know that you're paying attention to my instructions and if maybe I've missed something. It's likely I have. Even if it's "do you have a wifi password?", the answer is yes, but you'll have to figure out which one is the right one because we can never remember.</li>
<li>Play with my kids. Act like you like them. Especially when I'm still at home looking for my lip gloss and dusting off my high heels. I don't like silence while I'm trying to figure out what this crust is on my shirt and if I should change before I leave. Most of the time, the babysitters are good at this. But there have been a couple who seriously don't know what to even say to a two year old. How about "hi!"</li>
<li>When I ask <i>you</i> a question, like "are you comfortable feeding the baby baby food?" I don't exactly expect you to say no, but if you've never done it before, don't lie. I'll give you more specific instructions, like "put on a bib" or "the food goes here, in her mouth. not in her ears where I'll find it tomorrow if you're lying."</li>
<li>If you have rules, speak up. You charge your own hourly rate? Let me know right off the bat. You have a minimum amount of time that you see as "worth it"? Tell me. Sometimes I only need someone for an hour, if that's not something you're interested in, tell me first. </li>
<li>It's always a good idea to check in after the kids are in bed and all is well. I often let the sitter know that I'll be sending a text around 8:30 just to make sure bedtime went smoothly and help out in case something weird is going on. (Charlotte getting upset because the wrong button was pushed on her sound machine and now it's ocean waves instead of static. 2 year olds can be very specific in their white noise needs.) If you can't figure out the remote, text me. I don't want you to get so bored that you start snooping.</li>
<li>CLEAN UP. This is something that some people are really good at, and others just don't get it. It may have been messy when you arrived because two kids were awake and pulling out every toy and book. But after bedtime is the perfect time to tidy up. How awkward would it be if I was like an actual employer (or just a mom, i guess) and I said "I will pay you after you clean up these toys and wipe the baby food off the table. Go ahead. I'll watch." Nope, just do it first and we'll avoid that situation.</li>
<li>When I come home and ask how it went, "fine." is not an acceptable answer. Tell me how much you love the little nuggets, even if they were sort of naughty. Tell me if they were naughty. If the baby cried, you can tell me, that way I'm not surprised. If you say she didn't cry, can you tell me your secrets? Let me know if dinner went well, tell me a funny story, act like you're in it for more than the money, because FYI 18-22 year olds? You're getting paid more than our date cost. </li>
</ol>
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Yeah, maybe these rules are stupid or asking too much. </div>
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But I just had a brilliant idea. </div>
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In the spirit of celebrating today's technology, the babysitters can unlock "badges" for tasks they complete. A lot like four square or some other hip thing that I know nothing about.</div>
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Keep kids alive: $5/hr</div>
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Complete bedtime routine (wash face, brush teeth, comb hair, story): bonus $5</div>
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Check in with mom to say all is well: bonus $2<br />Clean up after the kids: bonus $5</div>
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Fold kids' laundry: bonus $5 </div>
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Unload dishwasher: bonus $5</div>
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Tell me how much you love my kids and how they are the sweetest little girls you've ever watched in your life: bonus $150. (okay, not really.)<br /></div>
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Based on a 4 hour night out, this is $47 where over half of the hours the kids are asleep. I mean, you could get $20 for the bare minimum, but don't you feel special when you <i>unlock</i> <i>badges</i>? I do. That's why I track my food on My Fitness Pal. </div>
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But nothing beats having family babysit. They love the kiddos, they clean up so I don't blog about them later, and they're usually free. :) </div>
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<i>What would you add the list? Am I asking way too much?</i></div>
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I babysat a lot in my youth and usually made $3-5/hr for full days, watching 3 kids. Walked uphill both ways to school. Barefoot. I had to use AOL Instant Messenger to talk to my friends. The horror. </div>
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Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393383710844928953noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5816997143422723272.post-75225317281851995732013-05-24T08:52:00.002-04:002013-05-24T08:52:52.717-04:00Ultimate ResetIn the last 3 weeks (plus 2 days), I've started and completed the <a href="http://myultimatereset.com/esuite/home/tracer412" target="_blank">Beachbody Ultimate Reset</a>. Basically, it's a 21 day detox/cleanse with a supplement program and meal plan of whole foods.<br />
It was one of the more challenging things I've done as far as discipline and self control goes. I did this with two of my neighbors and we were all successful with sticking with it and getting great results.<br />
While weight loss is definitely a benefit of the program, it's mostly about getting your body to the healthiest state it can be by eliminating a lot of the garbage that we put into it.<br />
When we started, it was definitely a shock to the system. There was so much food prep and planning ahead. It become somewhat second nature by the second week, but I think it was a good thing. I got used to planning and preparing a good lunch instead of sharing a box of macaroni and cheese with Charlotte.<br />
And adding bacon to mine. Or whatever.<br />
I don't need to get into all of the boring details, but it was actually a much more positive experience than I anticipated. I thought I'd be a lot crabbier, when really I felt the best I ever really have. I expected to be STARVING but I never was. The biggest challenge was not cheating when I really wanted chocolate or crackers. Turns out I really, really like crackers. mmm triscuits.<br />
<br />
I didn't miss dairy really at all, and I was totally fine without meat. But the cracker part of my food pyramid was definitely left wanting more.<br />
Both of my neighbors and I reported sleeping better and having a lot more energy. I didn't have a lick of caffeine and didn't miss it. Of course I've had a little coffee both yesterday and today because it's just a nice part of my morning and I enjoy the taste. I didn't go into it thinking it was a "lifestyle change" because frankly, it's not. I think it's a good kick start to some really healthy habits which I will likely maintain, but to say I'm a grain-free vegan now is the stupidest claim I could make. We don't live in a community where that's an easy lifestyle. Community = my house. I would get kicked out.<br />
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I don't have any before and afters to share and if I did, I probably wouldn't share them. I'm selfish like that.<br />
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But I will tell you that I did lose some weight, and since I last stated my commitment to getting fit (late March), I have lost 13 pounds. That? is something I'm pleased with. I just did the math and I was really surprised to learn it was that much. My quest still continues because I'm having a 1/3 life crisis and when the youngest anyone mistakes you for is 29 when you're 30, I MUST FIGHT IT. Aging gracefully is for the weak.<br />
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I'm not exactly sure what my goal is. It's not like I have a race coming up (I don't enjoy running that much) or have anything approaching where I need to fit into an evening gown for judges to rate me.<br />
<br />
But yeah. The Ultimate Reset was really worth it. If you don't think you can do it, you can't. It's pretty much that simple. But having the accountability of my friends was the biggest help, and if you're interested if giving it a try, just click <a href="http://myultimatereset.com/esuite/home/tracer412">here</a> and you can get started.<br />
Or click <a href="http://www.culvers.com/">here</a> and just enjoy life.<br />
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Oh, and I got paid to talk about this.*<br />
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*no I didn't.Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393383710844928953noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5816997143422723272.post-41990298151528516202013-05-22T21:30:00.002-04:002013-05-24T14:36:45.787-04:00Picture Post Because I'm LazyI can't believe it's been nearly a month since I last wrote. For being told I talked too much as a youngster, I just don't have much to say these days.<br />
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There's plenty that has been going on. A lot, really. But with my frequent facebook picture posts and instagram, it seems that people already have a pretty good idea of what's been filling up my time.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">THIS. </td></tr>
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My normal abundance of patience is wearing thin as Lena has spent about 85% of the last week crying about being cute, fed, warm and loved. I don't know if she's getting a tooth or just preparing me for being crabby for the rest of my life, but it is getting exhausting listening to the whining. She is usually very content when she's within smelling distance of me. Seeing me isn't enough, she needs the essence of mom.<br />
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But when she's happy, it sure is fun. </div>
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I took about 50 pictures today of Lena trying to take Charlotte's cookie, and Charlotte subsequently sharing it and then kissing her on the head. Where she learns this sweet behavior, I do not know, but I will take credit for it.</div>
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Now that summer is approaching and it's going to getting hot, I want to get in a good routine to pass the time and enjoy the summer. I've been feeling somewhat burned out and maybe getting into a new season with new activities will get me out my rut. </div>
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What are your favorite warm weather activities with your kids? (or places to cool off when it's too hot?)</div>
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Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393383710844928953noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5816997143422723272.post-81794775961001103802013-04-28T21:26:00.001-04:002013-04-28T21:26:29.082-04:00Lena LatelyI was starting to feel guilty that the last several posts have nothing to do with Lena!<br />
Lena (rhymes with ballerina, for those of you who can't seem to figure this out) is 7 months old already!<br />
She is a good kid that has an emotional streak. She's at an age where she still isn't doing much, but it won't be long until she'll be on the move.<br />
She sits up and plays with toys, and scoots backwards when she's on her tummy. She really prefers to cuddle given the opportunity though. Charlotte was never much of a cuddler, so I mostly enjoy it, but it can be tough to get things done sometimes.<br />
She is soo smiley, but pretty much refuses to laugh unless it's her little grunt/cough combo. She demands high brow humor so she'll have to move out if she wants a good laugh.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwPq5TglvhGu2MMwu-93-wcujlrnKeYsV3oxaUzEQ7Eu4NxgRLUwDp-S54hgEGx3K1xIh0Wd2iOk_gKTeTJQWeHLK_bcENQhG-6rf7Z5ViHBF3-35j930rNZbOF-kniW8t3TbjDVzgom_T/s1600/IMG_2404.JPG+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwPq5TglvhGu2MMwu-93-wcujlrnKeYsV3oxaUzEQ7Eu4NxgRLUwDp-S54hgEGx3K1xIh0Wd2iOk_gKTeTJQWeHLK_bcENQhG-6rf7Z5ViHBF3-35j930rNZbOF-kniW8t3TbjDVzgom_T/s400/IMG_2404.JPG+(2).JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Considering starting a line of infant brassieres. Babisieres. </td></tr>
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<br />Lena has been doing well with sleeping for the most part. She takes 2-3 naps, all of which are quite short, but I'm getting used to it, and as long as I can get a 30 minute nap overlap with Charlotte's nap, I'm a happy camper. She goes to bed anywhere between 6:30-7:15, and doesn't wake to eat until about 6am. I think we're over the worst with the frequent nonsense wakeups, and today she even put her own pacifier in, which is truly a game changer.<br /><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">goofball</td></tr>
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It's funny when I compare Lena with Charlotte at the same age. They are really different, but mostly I think I'm different now too. I was always looking towards the next big (and little) milestone with Charlotte, and now I just keep thinking that Lena is my little baby. It doesn't occur to me that she'll probably be crawling in the next couple of months. With Charlotte, I thought she'd crawl any moment for months. I documented every.single.thing she did. </div>
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Charlotte and Lena are buddies, but it is only a matter of time before Charlotte starts getting really territorial over her toys. She even yanks Lena's toys away and shouts "DARBY NO!" Then she tries to correct herself and say "Lena, no" but by then, she's over whatever toy she wanted and she moves on. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy laughing.</td></tr>
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<br />Lena loooooves food, just like Charlotte did (does), and that makes meal time a little more enjoyable because she pretty much will eat anything that is offered. I made some broccoli and sweet potato, but so far, that's the only food she wasn't interested in. I don't blame her. It didn't taste that good to me either.<br /><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGOuzEnbRGc_y8qvtfMC34anYC2RDGEAEPsCyn0HXHg97VWWSulyR3TZHnMIU0bQ-tgmCNaw7_NtrqTfb3T_XokNt-b6m9qt5_0pBU2Dq5usBjpWHJI1X8X6K1pYJqL5N0vVPkAi_8zO3f/s1600/BMD_8511.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGOuzEnbRGc_y8qvtfMC34anYC2RDGEAEPsCyn0HXHg97VWWSulyR3TZHnMIU0bQ-tgmCNaw7_NtrqTfb3T_XokNt-b6m9qt5_0pBU2Dq5usBjpWHJI1X8X6K1pYJqL5N0vVPkAi_8zO3f/s400/BMD_8511.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo courtesy <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/B-Modern-Designs/116579974148?ref=br_tf" target="_blank">B Modern</a> , a friend of mine for 15 years!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In their Easter best</td></tr>
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We had Lena baptized last week and she was grunting and fussing a majority of the time up in front of church, but I was happy that there were 9 other kids being baptized that day so all the ruckus took any attention of Lena. <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi99jjXv7HgKtQTIuDC-P2Phekt_pXxBF6ZhzaI8qbUB0lLH15Yoka5ef0i1N6kgU1wtWxCsuj2PGw9hOsGhyphenhyphenPR73NxJAeFfy9VayhYO0iSLqNmSBxhAO8JKhD1ME8xSaKW_sDlYHHQT6PU/s1600/IMG_5252.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi99jjXv7HgKtQTIuDC-P2Phekt_pXxBF6ZhzaI8qbUB0lLH15Yoka5ef0i1N6kgU1wtWxCsuj2PGw9hOsGhyphenhyphenPR73NxJAeFfy9VayhYO0iSLqNmSBxhAO8JKhD1ME8xSaKW_sDlYHHQT6PU/s400/IMG_5252.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baptism day. Matching outfits will never get old for me.</td></tr>
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We definitely had a few rough months getting used to a baby in the house, but overall, Lena has been so good. She's so happy, cuddly, and easy going. There are many days where I tell myself "no more babies", but as she gets older, I can already tell I might be going back on my word. I should have written more during those "rough months" so I can remind myself why a 3rd little person in this house might be a bad choice. Or an absolutely adorable, squishy, smiley choice. Hmmm....<div>
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What's your favorite age for your kiddos? I think it just keeps getting better, but I'm a glass half full kinda girl.<br /><br />
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Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393383710844928953noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5816997143422723272.post-36236947803597832152013-04-26T15:36:00.001-04:002013-04-26T15:36:09.068-04:00Lottie LatelyIt's been a while since I've posted anything and it's mostly because I just don't have much to write about!<br />
Then of course, I remember that the original point of the blog was to document even the mundane for me to look back on one day.<br />
So the mundane is actually sort of exciting for me. A couple of weeks ago I mentioned that we started potty training Charlotte. I'm somewhat proud to say that we haven't quit. The first few weeks were hit or miss, almost literally, but then this week it just totally clicked for her.<br />
We went from excitement about the potty, to sheer horror at the thought in the matter of days. I completely stepped back and left it up to her, and she continued her interest. After asking some friends about what I should do about the tantrums, a few people suggest that I just stop altogether, and it just didn't feel right.<br />
I would ask each day if Charlotte wanted a diaper or undies, and we'd go ahead with what she chose. Most days she'd tell me if she had to go, and I would have to undo her diaper and everything, but she would always sit and go.<br />
Last week she wore only diapers, but kept them completely dry except during naps and nighttime. This week she chose undies and has not only had zero accidents, but she's used the bathroom while we were out to lunch twice this week! She's no longer scared of the big toilet, which apparently happened overnight, <i>and </i>she does better at bath time too. We had a few weeks of struggles because I think the warm water made her have to go and she sorta freaked out about it.<br />
We've made great strides in a few short weeks and I'm really excited about it. This will save both money and time doing laundry. I imagine there may be setbacks in the future, but I'm hoping that I won't have to worry about that.<br />
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In other news, the weather has been very unpredictable here lately. We've had a few nice days, but some record setting flooding too. We've been fortunate to be dry, but we can't say the same for some of our family. It's starting to warm up, and I hope that it stays warm now!<br />
Our neighborhood has a couple of small parks and whenever it's sunny, Charlotte demands that we visit the park. One day, the "baby park" was flooded so instead of the small slides and climbing structures Charlotte can manage easily, we headed back to the big structure right on our street.<br />
By the time I had Lena on the bench, Charlotte was off to explore. And I had to talk myself out of a panic attack.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deuces, mom. I'm outta here.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">NBD. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtLfFu0xzPrtV63_AvcC3WL4IOm03ozKwt52PQzE9FVJzYxjtYJHZ7UNpxePSp31ysWSq3CoRJDfkUJZf8ez4KerE1Pr1nt_hyphenhyphenwWyAKWeK37kbVempcpcWyc86k1-T9hHsS_B_ZVi29cdH/s1600/IMG_5212.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtLfFu0xzPrtV63_AvcC3WL4IOm03ozKwt52PQzE9FVJzYxjtYJHZ7UNpxePSp31ysWSq3CoRJDfkUJZf8ez4KerE1Pr1nt_hyphenhyphenwWyAKWeK37kbVempcpcWyc86k1-T9hHsS_B_ZVi29cdH/s400/IMG_5212.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You have to pump your legs, Lena. </td></tr>
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<br />The weather warmed up on Monday, so I took some laundry outside to fold, and Charlotte just lounged and enjoyed the warmth.<br /><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm probably not doing her any favors giving her outdated toys like the etch-a-sketch. But she played with it for almost a half hour outside.</td></tr>
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<br /><br /> She's now referring to herself solely as Lottie and my husband usually calls her that now too. It might be sticking.<br />
I do feel like I should pinch myself because boy, this little kid can be sweet. Her little sister is pretty nice too. I'll write more on her next time.<br />
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<br />Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393383710844928953noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5816997143422723272.post-39438112116694785972013-04-11T14:51:00.003-04:002013-04-11T14:51:32.184-04:00The Glamour of MotherhoodOn Saturday, my husband left in the wee hours to drive down to Atlanta with his brothers to go see Michigan play in NCAA Final Four/Championship game. I recognized that this was pretty much a once in a lifetime chance for them and they are huge fans.<br />
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I gave him a little piece of my mind before he left, just explaining that with the ages that our girls are right now, it's not exactly a piece of cake on a day to day basis. He definitely acknowledged that, but wow, things got interesting.<br />
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I mentioned before that we're attempting potty training with Charlotte. The first week was great, then we had a really tough time where she was too scared to sit on the potty, but didn't want to go in her diaper either. Many tantrums occurred, and she started to get a really bad attitude. I was nervous about dealing with it on my own 24/7. On top of that, the hours between 4:30-7 are hellish between trying to prepare dinner, calming a fussy 6 month old who wants to be held, watching the two year old to make sure she gets to the bathroom on time, feeding both children, bathing both children, getting them both off to bed...<br />
oh wah wah wah you say. And that's fine, because I probably would have said that before I had two little kids.<br />
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All has been going well, really. Charlotte was super happy on Sunday, used the potty without crying, and had no accidents, and was just fun to be around. I had my parents over in the evening for dinner so they could occupy the kids and give me a little break while I prepared dinner.<br />
Then we get to Monday. I go into Charlotte's room at 9:30 (she's a lazy bones) and noticed quickly that she had thrown up all over the place, and the poor thing just slept in it. I quickly called my friend who was on her way over for a playdate to cancel, just in case this wasn't a one-time thing. Charlotte seemed happy, but was concerned that this whole mess was poop and that really freaked her out. I thought about explaining what vomit was, but she seemed pretty bewildered as it was.<br />
I got her in the tub, put Lena down for a nap and took off all of Charlotte's bedding to get in the wash.<br />
I was giving myself a little pat on the back for remaining cool, calm and collected throughout all of this. I am pretty much the best mom ever.<br />
<br />
I offered her a mini muffin that I made fresh that morning, and she wouldn't touch it. She drank a little milk (that I hesitantly offered), and seemed pretty chipper. So chipper that she started hopping around like a frog during a song, and I told her that maybe that wasn't a great idea.<br />
"Tum hurt!"<br />
<barf!!!!!><br />
I was folding laundry, so I just grabbed a towel and guided her to her little potty where instinct took over and she barfed there. No mess! I am rockin it!!!<br />
After getting everything cleaned up, I made Charlotte a little spot on the couch with some towels and a pillow. I peek up at Lena who is in her swing, DANGLING.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL9efxXxJ4nZmivuZKMpjl43RWrvCAPIPEBCtdj68bL1Cwhv8tjfL6iBKjI9VRnqmIUwKHbbmapICGbSEpha78W14cjrfIYRuixgiCrDAZ2XM_OhI-LqEio0cflqJWnIreji5yIPn2ZvzN/s1600/crane.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL9efxXxJ4nZmivuZKMpjl43RWrvCAPIPEBCtdj68bL1Cwhv8tjfL6iBKjI9VRnqmIUwKHbbmapICGbSEpha78W14cjrfIYRuixgiCrDAZ2XM_OhI-LqEio0cflqJWnIreji5yIPn2ZvzN/s400/crane.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not nearly as frightening as this</td></tr>
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Her legs were hanging off the side, and even if she had fallen, she would not have been injured. I learned that it's time to use the little harness. That incident basically took away any positive feelings I was having towards myself for the day.<br />
<br />
Charlotte continued to be sick throughout the day, and unlike many mothers I've read about, I had no instincts to catch her puke with my hands. That shit cray.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT1dKVshJGbluawmhqMo8b4SN2S8JZn1ndGYTMo84ib0BVgL_9LP7tBW40VhYhQfZBViu6GmqyVoJUcbjGBWH-wOPctg72knBUddRngc_6shxCClEiDXMsfVpTy0mflMAD01-iLqotxtet/s1600/IMG_2267.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT1dKVshJGbluawmhqMo8b4SN2S8JZn1ndGYTMo84ib0BVgL_9LP7tBW40VhYhQfZBViu6GmqyVoJUcbjGBWH-wOPctg72knBUddRngc_6shxCClEiDXMsfVpTy0mflMAD01-iLqotxtet/s400/IMG_2267.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crying out to the heavens. WHYYYY</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">so sad.</td></tr>
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<br />We managed to make it through the day, and we were so happy to have Marcus home on Tuesday. I'm wondering if there's any chance the rest of us will come through this unscathed, but I suppose only time will tell. I had two miss two workouts this week that I already paid for, cancel a play date and a get together with a friend. The one week I had some semblance of a social life, completely went to crap.<div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
We've been blessed enough to be quite healthy most of the time, but lately we just haven't caught much of a break. But like always, it could be much worse. I'm such a silver linings type of girl. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
She's still pretty whiny and every morning she's crying about her pajamas and I can't figure out the problem. But such is the life of a two year old - spazzing and being particular about everything for no reason. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This concludes the story of my super fancy stay-at-home life. </div>
<div>
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Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393383710844928953noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5816997143422723272.post-71146793526941837752013-04-03T14:42:00.001-04:002013-04-03T14:42:17.263-04:00Being Two<br />
<ol>
<li>I want oatmeal!</li>
<li>This is good, but it'd be even better if I could eat it on the stairs.</li>
<li>It would be even more delicious if I didn't have to feed myself. "MOMMY!"</li>
<li>I have to go potty.</li>
<li>Oh! The Cat in the Hat is on! </li>
<li>I really need to pee.</li>
<li>Where are my sparkly shoes?</li>
<li>It's been a couple hours, I think I'll start crying.</li>
<li>I'm going to see how much crazy shit my mom will do in hopes that I'll use the potty.</li>
<li>Hahaha, she's a fool. </li>
<li>Play-doh!</li>
<li>Where's Grandma?</li>
<li>Where's the dog? </li>
<li>I bet the dog likes play-doh.</li>
<li>Why isn't Mickey Mouse Clubhouse on RIGHT NOW.</li>
<li>I want milk.</li>
<li>No, water.</li>
<li>Wait, juice.</li>
<li>no, milk.</li>
<li>wait, water.</li>
<li>this water is not actually what I wanted.</li>
<li>Milk, please.</li>
<li>POTTY NOW</li>
<li>Scream in terror in anticipation</li>
<li>CELEBRATE, LET'S CLAP OUR HANDS!</li>
<li>I'm hungry.</li>
<li>I refuse to accept any offers on lunch choices.</li>
<li>My hair wants to be brushed.</li>
<li>I want to brush the baby's hair.</li>
<li>Why doesn't the baby have hair.</li>
<li>Where's my lunch.</li>
<li>I want a diaper change, but I'm not wearing a diaper.</li>
<li>Ask for diaper, but I'll cry when it's on.</li>
<li>Mommy looks like she needs a hug</li>
<li>I think she wants to be kicked</li>
<li>It's time to read 15 books.</li>
<li>I love cuddling with my mom.</li>
<li>I feel funny. Like I just really need to scream.</li>
<li>Like I'm losing all control. </li>
<li>Time to slam my body down</li>
<li>and wind it all around</li>
<li>Slam, Slam, Slam, Slam</li>
<li>Zig a zig ah.</li>
<li>Nap time. finally I can take a break from the theatrics.</li>
</ol>
<div>
We've got a two year old in full force these days. Her favorite word is no. Says it for everything. Then gets angry when you don't know when she actually means yes.</div>
<div>
Fortunately, the tantrums have only happened while at home. (my mom's house too). The moment she busts it out in public is the day she knows she's winning the battle.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
wish me luck.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBToz3hX5Uzy3oRdSJdUKx1x2xIn4uRmHjT52szrTfoeXSAsYt3g7n_JYrxokYQgg_i0P3QrTM879JgXLwhVAMsJDiNnM1OzsCsfdkXk2LVVhzxQG13_EJu1q0ZmoDHtse0dudDdUUs2hT/s1600/IMG_5065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBToz3hX5Uzy3oRdSJdUKx1x2xIn4uRmHjT52szrTfoeXSAsYt3g7n_JYrxokYQgg_i0P3QrTM879JgXLwhVAMsJDiNnM1OzsCsfdkXk2LVVhzxQG13_EJu1q0ZmoDHtse0dudDdUUs2hT/s400/IMG_5065.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm 75% cute, 15% sweet, 95% INSANE</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /><br />Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393383710844928953noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5816997143422723272.post-1573095757808123332013-03-29T16:19:00.001-04:002013-03-29T16:19:42.244-04:00Lottie Dottie, She Likes to PottyThis summer, when Charlotte was 18-19 months, she expressed interest in trying out the potty. I felt like maybe it was a little early, but since she was interested, we gave it a go. She went a few times, had a couple small accidents, but I didn't push for it at all.<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I was enormously pregnant with Lena at the time and everyone thought that two kids in diapers would be so much work, but actually, it's probably a lot easier than having to rush off with one to the can at a moments notice.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Over the past several months, Charlotte has completely ignored her little potty chair, and I haven't bothered. We had a couple of trips planned and honestly, it was easier for <i>me</i> if she stayed in diapers. Gross, I know.</div>
<div>
But lately, she's been wanting to try again, and I'm thinking this is our window. I can't give up now. </div>
<div>
I read the 3 day potty training bootcamp a few months ago and we sort of follow it, but I can't commit to saying no diapers ever again. We will work on naps and night time once she seems to have day times figured out. Over the course of three days, there has only been one accident, and I am so proud of her.</div>
<div>
During this time, there is a ridiculous amount of bribing, tv, kid's songs, dancing, and phone calls to dad to tell him the big news. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I really have no idea how long this whole thing is supposed to take, but I think we're in it to win it now. I've noticed she's been a little more emotional over all. Who knew that diapers provided a sense of security? She definitely gets nervous before going, so I mostly just stay chill and say "you can do it." while blogging or something. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In other non-bodily function news, Charlotte has been referring to herself as Lottie and I love it. I always loved it as a nickname since I saw the movie A Little Princess and her character was so cute. While we were in Florida, we half jokingly started calling her that, and it's starting to stick. </div>
<div>
She's at a really fun age right now, and her speech is improving a ton so it's funny to hear some of the things she comes up with. She sometimes protests when I pick out a certain outfit and then when I let her choose something, it ends up looking something like this:</div>
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And it horrifies me. Other times, she prefers to wear an oversized Elmo shirt or the shirt we got on vacation that has a fat ol' manatee on it. Fortunately most of the time she doesn't put up a fight at all and getting dressed is not a battle yet. Hair combing is, and when she wakes up, her hair is a huge tangled, matted mess.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWC2EmZVyEOV5ntDzSH8eY4VH5D8eFL0oslyBffmYXIKTiXnFuIZB8suVxcGRmqAD__pLFXFvZgZiBKk3JAyg8YrOA7HA7MRsmEUyRRbWr-GGsd7CePpQZjXa-o7eR1uQuni39I26Sq5kj/s1600/IMG_1925.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWC2EmZVyEOV5ntDzSH8eY4VH5D8eFL0oslyBffmYXIKTiXnFuIZB8suVxcGRmqAD__pLFXFvZgZiBKk3JAyg8YrOA7HA7MRsmEUyRRbWr-GGsd7CePpQZjXa-o7eR1uQuni39I26Sq5kj/s400/IMG_1925.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>
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It's next to impossible to comb through this without water and detangler, which leaves her hair really flat and gross looking. Suggestions are appreciated. It takes several minutes to brush through it.</div>
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<div>
Do you remember picking out your own clothes?</div>
<div>
I remember being in 2nd grade and sneaking my sister's black and white striped leggings to school with one of her plaid sweaters and changing once I got there. She was 5 years older than me and so cool, but would never let me borrow her clothes, so I snuck 'em! (Are you just finding this out now, Steph?)</div>
Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393383710844928953noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5816997143422723272.post-31004523937008475772013-03-26T17:41:00.000-04:002013-03-26T17:41:23.155-04:00This Is Mah JamLike I mentioned in a previous post, I started a new workout. It's been going moderately well, meaning I haven't lost any limbs or peed in front of everyone yet.<br />
Here are my complaints:<br />
I jumped right into a class without having worked out like this in a couple of years. We basically do the all the same thing, except at this point I cannot always keep up or lift the same weight as some of the others. This results in me trying to figure out 1) if I can lift the prescribed weight and 2) if I can figure out how to change it. answers: probably not.<br />Forcing me to listen to Nickelback and Kid Rock. I know lots of people who like Kid Rock. But I just can't. I can't. And Nickelback? I think I actually heard someone excitedly say "yes! it sounds like you have the whole album!" I almost shouted right out loud. On top of that, the work out was 50s, 40s, 30s, 20s, & 10s of 10 different moves. It was like I was in actual hell. If I need to do 150 of anything, I'd rather listen to Chopin or Beethoven.<br />
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<br />
I simply cannot be inspired while listening to songs that make me lose hope for humanity.<br />
I wonder if it would be rude to pop in some headphones and just listen to my own jamz. Or maybe we could theme days for music. That would actually be really exciting for me.<br />
Last night I found myself searching for once popular songs and their music videos. I was mostly stuck in 1998-99 and was feeling nostalgic and also cracking up at how ridiculous it all was.<br />
If each work out could be a musical surprise, I think it could be a lot of fun. Like if Bubba Sparxxx Miss New Booty was played, I think I could crack out a few extra mountain climbers.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFZmc2i0R4mPa72Uy6B5BkJ_hOipmynf2UgvUVz6fs7JxHP4nZgd2CgQ3HNaa1ZNT43rKnY3VVPvT0hqbpGmXnPBn3znq4IdMsbaScJHwpRy4qgiVEQxFbzWU9zWdBaukMQeWljXCyWT-4/s1600/bubbasparxxx.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFZmc2i0R4mPa72Uy6B5BkJ_hOipmynf2UgvUVz6fs7JxHP4nZgd2CgQ3HNaa1ZNT43rKnY3VVPvT0hqbpGmXnPBn3znq4IdMsbaScJHwpRy4qgiVEQxFbzWU9zWdBaukMQeWljXCyWT-4/s400/bubbasparxxx.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"keep up the good work" ~Bubba Sparxxx</td></tr>
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<br />I'm not claiming I have great taste in music. But I will say that I do turn into a girl at a bar when I hear my favorite song come on. I don't squeal and run off mid-conversation so I can dance, but I sorta nod to myself in acknowledgement of my jam. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />What kind of music pumps you up for a good work out? I'm a rap and r&b type of girl with some bubblegum pop and indie randomness thrown in there too.<br /><br />
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Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393383710844928953noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5816997143422723272.post-67588049467523170452013-03-24T10:32:00.000-04:002013-03-24T10:32:12.538-04:00SenselessThis might sound weird.<br />
<br />
Earlier this week after I climbed into bed, I felt like something was off. I laid there doing my mental checks: doors locked, lights off, Darby's downstairs (for now), kids are sleeping (for now). It was funny that I was able to figure it out, but what it was is that I've had no sense of smell for days. This cold has stayed for the long haul right in my face.<br />
I felt off because there's actually a lot your nose can tell you. Are my scentsy warmers still on? Does the baby need a clean diaper?<br />Do I personally smell like I could use a shower?<br />
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What I realized is that I miss the smell of Lena. Sure, it's likely that she smells like spit up and poop, but I guess I'll never know. While it certainly isn't that big of a deal that I haven't been able to smell (or taste!!) in 7 days, it's actually really starting to take it's toll. Dramatic? Probably. But it's not like you expected anything different from me. I love to snuggle that little baby and it's just not right that I can't enjoy that nice stinky baby smell.<br />
Last night Lena was up a BUNCH (her routine was off, and she went to bed about an hour later than normal) and then with her lingering cough causing her to occasionally barf, I got up each time to check on her. She'd take her pacifier and go to sleep for another hour. But she was up every 90 minutes between 12-6. At 6, I fed her and changed her diaper, and she was totally sleeping in her own dukie for probably most of the night. If I could have smelled it, I would have changed her, say...6 hours before that.<br />
As much as I don't want to smell that, It'd sure my my job a lot easier.<br />
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This whole loss of taste in addition to smell is pretty crappy too. I mean, what is food WITHOUT TASTE?!<br />
Sustenance? Bah. I eat food 'cuz it's good, y'all. I've been trying to use it as an excuse to eat healthier because it's not like I can even tell what I'm eating, but I thought maybe there were secret healing properties in pizza and breadsticks. And since I couldn't taste after my first serving, I thought, maybe I just need LOTS more and then I'll be able to taste. It didn't work. Alcohol is also not holding the key to my health.<br />
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7 days without taste. I've added hot sauce, taken apple cider vinegar (made me barf. still couldn't taste), drank hot tea with lemon and honey, taken a bite of a lime. It doesn't matter. I have dead taste buds.<br />
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If you know what I can do to get my taste and smell back, please help. I'm afraid I've been ruined.<br />
(bonus points if you said that like Stewie)<br />
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<br />Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393383710844928953noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5816997143422723272.post-24870329999369458912013-03-19T16:07:00.000-04:002013-03-19T16:07:12.387-04:00Being Sick's the WorstI currently have two sick kiddos.<br />
It's been so rare that Charlotte has been sick for more than a couple of days, and now that Lena is in on it, it's double trouble.<br />
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I noticed Charlotte had a teensy cough last week, and then a fever the next day, and it's continued to spiral down. Lena joined in a couple days later, and the coughing absolutely breaks my heart.<br />
I took Lena to the doctor today for her 6 month appointment/sick kid combo visit, and she's got bronchiolitis which may or may not be caused by RSV. This basically means there's nothing to do but wait. Unless it gets worse, then there's breathing treatments, but so far, no need.<br />
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Thankfully they're both sleeping decent (a LOT) but all that means for me is that I'm spying on them to make sure they're still breathing. <br />
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On top of all this, now I'm getting sick too. It's interesting how my perception of being sick has changed since having kids.<br />
When I was working before I had babies, if I felt the onset of a cold, I'd be like "bummer." but I'd still go to work (unless it was really bad), infect others, work out, stay out late on the weekends, sleep it off, let the cold get real bad because my lack of rest, and then I'd take a day or two to get it together and hopefully I'd be better. I don't too often get sick so this wasn't a big issue.<br />
Now that I have kids, the moment that I get the throat tickle, or the tingly nose sensation, I'm like "OH MY GOSH THIS BETTER NOT BE HAPPENING NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO".<br />
<i>Disclaimer: this is not me being a martyr. I have sought reinforcements a time or two when ill.</i><br />But there is no calling in sick. All of the things? They still must get done. Because otherwise there will be lots of diapers dragging on the ground from their weight. That's really the main thing. I'll let the house suffer. We'll get take out for dinner.<br />
The other issue is really hoping that your kids don't get sick too. In this case, it's had the opposite effect. I got sick from the kids, who got sick from church nursery. Which is basically another whole can of worms that I probably shouldn't get into.<br />
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Everyone has been so helpful with remedies and tips for taking care of the little ones who can't take a slew of drugs to alleviate their ailments. So far, my favorite has been the apple cider vinegar, cayenne, honey, and ginger concoction that I would never in a billion years give to my kid, and ohmygosh it tasted so so so bad, but it worked on me. But know this: do not take it on an empty stomach. hurl!<br /><br /><i>Do you have any home remedies you swear by? </i> <i>Not just for kids or colds, but for anything.</i><br />
We used to be told that burnt toast would prevent a hangover. It didn't.<br />
<br />Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393383710844928953noreply@blogger.com4