Sunday, July 8, 2007
The Gang's Back Together
Guys we shouldn't let this much time pass between our visits!
Thursday, July 5, 2007
Swimming with the Girls
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
The Ballon Glow
Speaking of ice cream, a hint to all you mom's who still have kids in a stroller: when handing your child ice cream and leaving them in the stroller remember that people passing by smiling at your child usually are not doing so because they think he's cute. It's more because your kid has ice cream from head to toe......LITERALLY! What a mess, but wasn't B excited to walk around without a shirt...."showin' his muscles".
As the sun set the tethered hot air balloons began to all light their fire together. It was a beautiful sight! B is still talking about the "air bawoons". The fireworks were a great end to the evening. The Rozzi (I think I spelled it right) family always does Cincinnati well. The fireworks were big and colorful. It was as if they were dancing through the sky; pictures just didn't do them justice.
Okay just so you don't think my life is all roses; we did wait in line for a full 55 minutes to get out of the parking lot, 20 of which was in the same exact spot...but who has road rage?. The good news is the kids behaved beautifully, in fact they might have dealt with the delay better than the moms!
Monday, July 2, 2007
Meeting Baby Collin
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Oh the Pride we swallow!
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Summer Has Arrived!!! But School is Starting for B!
B's first day was not as I had expected, I'm learning much of parenting can't be expected...in fact expect nothing because you'll never be right! B went in and didn't want to paint with the other kids he wanted to play alone. That's when I realized I was doing the right thing, he needs to be introduced to structure and "schooling" if you will. I'm hoping that the name forgotten teacher can also help this mommy with some potty training ideas...it's not going so well!
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Cheap, Cheap, Cheap
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Wednesday, May 9, 2007
The Count Down Has Begun!
Sunday, May 6, 2007
Our "Pigs" have flown!
What a weekend! Friday after work B and I headed downtown for the health and fitness expo to pick up unc's running packet. He was so well behaved; said please and thank you. The booths handed out so many freebies we went home with a bag full of "stuff".
Saturday morning we got up and headed back downtown with Nana in tow for the Piglet race. The amount of people and kids was amazing. Although the race wasn't as organized as this teacher would have liked, we did have fun. B "ran" and won a gold medal. He wore it proudly, between his two year old meltdowns! It was a good morning.
Unc arrived home that evening and we headed over to Megan's for the family Pasta Party. Unc seemed pumped and Aunt Meg was ready for her relay (Three Chicks & A Legend) too.
Sunday morning arrived quickly, the weather was perfect. Nana, B, and I headed out to see if we could catch a glimpse of Unc and Meg. Unc ran by at mile 12, looking healthy and spry. Note: I don't even look that good after driving 12 miles! He pointed at B, and B tried to run along side of him. Now that was a cute moment! Meg, finished her part of the relay and met up with us. We then loaded back up and headed downtown to the finish line. We saw Unc again. This time he looked tired but still moving strong, and told us "THIS SUCKS!"....but damn he finished! I'm impressed, inspired, and overall amazed at the sites I've seen this weekend.
This event showed me that all types of people run; thin, fat, young, old, able, disabled. I should have no excuses for not getting out and moving (IE. getting exercises) everyday. If all these people can I can too! Wanna join me....I need support?!
Thursday, May 3, 2007
TEST TEST TEST!!!
Wednesday, May 2, 2007
Sunshine from Strangers
The mouse was a handkerchief contraption that had ears, nose, body and tail. It was adorable, he crossed his arms and made the mouse jump in the crook of his elbow. A couple of times the mouse jumped right out of his arms onto his booth. B was amazed and just kept asking "What's that?".
We all went about our business for a few minutes. B kept turning around and smiling at the man, but he was well behaved so I let him go. Listen, a well behaved two year old is much more acceptable than a screaming one! The man then began asking B what his name was and how old he was and so on. B did a great job holding a conversation. Finally the man said B "I like your name. I wish I had your smile! Do you have a piggy bank at home?" To which B answered "yeeeeeesssssssssssssssss". The man continued, "would your mom let you have a couple of dollars to put in that bank" as he looked at me. I replied "oh, no! Maybe a couple of pennies". To which the stranger took out his wallet and handed B a 5 dollar bill! He instructed B not to buy any junk, to which my hilarious son answered "ahhhh, man!". B then on his own said Thank you, and our evening went on.
I considered slipping the 5 back to him, but it seemed that giving money to B made this stranger happy. B slid the 5 into his pocket we came home and it is now in his piggy bank.
I know it is important to teach our children to stay away from strangers, but sometimes it's important to teach them to be kind and friendly too. The whole event made me happy and I hope that this stranger has joyous events placed into his life because he sure brought some into ours!
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
The Whirl-Wind
We're all whipped. Brady, my sisters brother-n-law, a young strong recently retired from college football man helped us move this weekend and today. It's amazing to watch someone with such strength just pick up your life and place it into a POD, or run it up and down the stairs. Mom and I just kept looking at each other. Her eyes said and my repeated "Thank God for Brady".
The closing went well, all except the extra money I had to pay. Who knew that when your realtor said you would need a couple of hundred dollars for closing that she actually meant 15 hundred? I was a bit shocked, and refrained from any obscene meltdowns but really didn't appreciate that kind of news a day before needing that amount of money. Clearly, she thinks I'm rich!
The house was cleaned and shutting the door for the final time was odd. All day long I had flash backs of my first arrival into the house five years ago. I can still remember the smell of cat urine in the carpet as my mom and I began the tear-out process. I continued to smile at the wooden bike/cart that we found in the garage and made into a plant stand (not to mention mom painted it to match the living room). I vivid remember my dad calling me in North Carolina while on my vacation to let me know he finished painting the "brown" trim (ugh, it was a dark red...but the labor was free, so brown it is).
As with every ones' house, so much joy and sorrow filled the walls. Independence was fostered, crazy nights not to mention relationships, the Nancy slumber party with the infamous "popcorn ball", being pregnant, B's birth and first birthday. The neighbor babysitter turned crackhead, the crazy "gonna cut down your tree" man, and the nights of listening to "No One Messes with Billy!". I know I'll miss my space and independence until I find just the right house, but some things are better left behind. It was time and I feel good about my decision. Stay tuned for "living with my parents" stories!
Monday, April 9, 2007
When It Rains It Pours!
*Note he's looking so thin and healthy, he couldn't help much on Sunday because he had his 20 mile run for his marathon training. I'm impressed....I don't even like to drive 20 miles.
We continued moving, my mom and sister and I did most of the lugging. We traveled to Dayton for our Easter celebration, picked up B, and returned to Cincinnati. Our first night in the new "pad" was good...we were so tired anything would have worked. Monday was punishment day. B woke up screaming and held on to that for the remainder of the day. He did develop a new trick....climbing out of his crib. Just what I needed in a new house. I was hoping to have at least a couple of weeks in the crib before tackling the "big boy bed"! Not so lucky!! I'm now typing this as he screams from the "big boy bed". Crap he even got treated to a new pair of big boy PJs....I'd sleep in a new bed for a new pair of PJs. They were even Curious George and in his world it doesn't get much better than that! The good news is he is now not getting out of the bed...after four trips. Now he's just wailing from the bed. Progress that's what I'm counting as a success. Here's to going back to work tomorrow and having him see his day care provider! Got to LOVE peaches!
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
Ms. Elizabeth!!!
Tuesday, April 3, 2007
Journal Entries For Elizabeth
March 31
-The day began very hectic. I was busy packing my suitcase to come meet you, packing B's things so he could stay with his Nana, and anxiously awaiting Wayne and Ed to pick me up. Ed in his normal fashion (an activator) had me in a frenzy about what to expect in Guatemala City. he's shared that we won't be able to leave the hotel after you arrive because of safety issues. He's also told me that I'll have to pay the customs agent to be allowed back into the US. I'm nervous as I've never left the country before but so excited to meet you! You must be a sweet heart because your dad's eyes just light up when he says your name. I've seen many pictures of you! We've watched your first year of life in pictures. We, your fathers friends and I thought for sure you would be with us by now and the wait gets tough as each week goes by (especially for your dads). I've brought you some rubber ducks for bath time and a book to read together during the visit. When I thing about how short this visit is I realize how hard it will be to leave, especially for your Dad.
-I'm thinking I may leave the two of you together and venture out to see your birth country. I'll check into tours when we arrive. I'd like to learn something while I'm visiting so I can share with you as you get older.
-Our flight to you left from Cincinnati and we arrived in Miami! Your dad and I read smut magazines during the flight....the big question is who is the father of Anna Nicole's Baby and is Katie really leaving Tom Cruise? As I'm writing this we are waiting on the connecting flight for "two screws", which need to be placed in the plane for take-off. It's been over an hour and all the people on the flight are getting restless, including me. It's difficult to wait when we're so driven to come and see you.
April 1, 2007
-I didn't finish writing last night because we were exhausted! But I was floored as we left the airport at the immediate cultural differences. People were gathered (crammed) at the gate waiting to greet their loved ones. Cars, vans, and mini-buses were every where! Children and adults were randomly offering to assist is in the hoped of being tipped. Ed quietly warned me to stay with him. I didn't hear him and a young boy scooped up my suitcase and followed us to the shuttle bus. I assumed that he worked for the hotel. he didn't and your dad was a bit irritated with me! We stopped at McDonald's it was a bit different but felt a little like home or at least tasted it! We settled in at the Clarion Hotel, had a taste of Guatemala Rum and went to sleep.
-Now we've had our breakfast (tortillas with ham and cheese, chicken tacos, fabulous fruits and pastries). you should be arriving with in the next hour. your dad has bottles, diapers, wipes, and rash cream. me I brought ducks and the book. It's amazing that I've never met you but already you have a special place in my heart. I can't wait to see you!
-Notes from today's paper! Clearly I don't speak Spanish but I know you'll learn or at least I hope so!
Paper: Guatemala Siglo Veintiuno
Front page: Mario Gonzales "Los Salvavidas Somos heroes Anonimos
Other headlines: Vielmann Se Va, Llega De Torrebiarte
Afinan bienvenida para repatriados
-Your arrival:
Ami and another young lady (your nanny) brought you to the hotel for a visit. I could read in your eyes that you were worried they were going to leave you. Your lip began to quiver and tears rolled from your eyes. hard to swallow but at least we know these people are taking good care of you and that you are loved. your dad is talking with you now, baby talk.....his favorite thing to say to you at this moment is "Whatchya doin' little girl?" You're dazing in and out of crying but I imagine nap time will be coming soon. You stood on your own with a death grip on my shirt. I hope you are able to get comfortable in the next day so that we can see your one year old "tricks".
The day went by fast even though we weren't allowed to take you anywhere. We tried to have you take a nap because you were yawning, but you couldn't sleep. We went to the hotel restaurant for lunch and upon our return our room smelled like carpet glue. We went to the executive lounge...you had fallen asleep in your dad's arms.
Every where we go people comment on how cute and precious you are. You're very slow to warm up to strangers, me included, but took to your dad immediately. In fact if I get to close, try to hold you, or even play with you the tears and crying begin. We're winding down for the night. you and your dad have played toss the ducks, toes to nose, and read a book. We both were tickled when you babbled "Da Da". It's hard for me to think about your dad having to leave you tomorrow evening. It's clear you two have bonded. You're going to make him the happiest man in the world! I'm glad that I've been able to be a part of this experience. I hope to watch your story unfold into a true fairy tale!
April 2, 2007
-You slept well through the night, at least that's what your Papa told me, I didn't hear a peep from you. After I got ready for the day I peeked into see you lounging with papa. you were a bit fussy but we think that you're teething. I'm waiting here in the lobby now for my day trip to Antigua. This will give the two of you some along time. I know you'll enjoy your time together even if you can't go anywhere. I've decided that your birth country is beautiful and the people are friendly. Everyone has been kind to your father and I. We've heard a lot about the history of your country. We've heard that their are 22 (at least) different civilizations in the Mayan Culture and that each one has it's own language. That's hare to fathom considering the country is smaller than the state of Texas!
-Fabio, my personal tour guide has brought me to Antigua, about an half hour drive from the city. I just spent way to much money in a Jade jewelry store. Let's just say I didn't really understand the exchange, but the jewels are worth it! (note I didn't really spend as much as I thought). I'm now sitting in the central park, surrounded by the world's largest Cathedral, government buildings, ice cream carts, tourist, people on mules. I'm amazed that everyone I meet knows so much about the countries history. We, my tour guide and I, walked through the town, several churches, and markets. I haven't seen any paintings for you yet, nor anything for B. I have seen many churches, monasteries, and hotels...Fabio says at least 23 monasteries are in Antigua. It seems like such a small place but it is packed not only with buildings and people but culture too. I'm now ordering lunch in a restaurant where Bill Clinton ate. La fonda de la Calle Real. I've ordered chicken, rice, and potatoes. I couldn't bring myself to try the local food. To many items I've never heard of. Someday you'll understand that I'm a chicken tender and pizza kinda girl.
These restaurants are filled with beautiful flowers, umbrellas (as it is an open court year), and ambiance. The kitchen is an open area...like a bar. All the plates are stacked and there is one chef. It's quiet and cozy, children sneak in to try and sell various things to the patrons. It is explained to me that these children are poor and are trying to make money for their families. They were rushed off by the wait staff.
It is hold week, so I've seen many saw dust rugs which are used for the procession. I also saw the very large "box" which the men carry religious statues on. It was huge and looked very heavy. Fabio explained that the men volunteer to carry this thing all over the city as part of their repentants (or apology to God).
The food was good the chicken was roasted in garlic, the rice was cooked with carrots and onions, and the baby potatoes buds were also roasted. Overall very good food.
There's so much to take in. The smell, the noise, the sights. A camera and my words don't do it justice. The feeling is calm but the traffic flies by and is crammed into the tiny streets. There is no animosity, as is exhibited in the US. Various cultures are welcomed, the local culture is celebrated. It's hard to think that these people are living in a third world country, they're poor (as in wealth) but exhibit kindness in all they do.
April 3, 2007
We're preparing to leave for the airport. you left last night Fernando picked you up. He was a very nice man; friendly, handsome, and personable. you smiled when you saw him, no tears. He handed you to the nanny who was seated in the back, no car seats in Guatemala. You turned and smiled at your Papa as if to say "I'm fine and I'll see you soon, love you." We then went on a quick walk around the block for fresh air. We saw many beautiful buildings and stores. We could have bought something for you in each store. We dinned on Dominoes and prepared for bed. It's now 5:30 am and I'm in the lobby waiting for Ed. We'll head to the airport. I'm looking forward to getting home to see B, but it comes like an evil trick because leaving means you aren't with us yet. I suppose the positive would be the sooner we arrive home the sooner you'll arrive. I wish they would have been able to allow you to come home with us today. Ed believes it will be another six to eight weeks. I hope sooner.
Monday, March 19, 2007
From the mouth of babes!
Yes I think it's funny that B says "What happins?" when he falls in the mud. Yes it's a good laugh when he reminds me everyday "My penis" and proceeds to play hide and seek with himself, but really the stories below are true! These kids really do believe the information below.
My sixth graders were assigned a research report. They each selected a Country and were provided with an outline to fill out. The "regular" kids worked on four sections: geography, historical facts, people and culture, and government and education. Here are just a couple of "facts" that I've read about...be prepared and worried, this kids although sweet will be taking care of us when we reach the nursing home.....I'm considering shooting myself before I allow that move! LOL
1. When asked under the people and culture section what races were in Egypt student E replied:
There's only one race in Egypt, but that was in 1996. I don't think there will
be anymore for about ten years.
E is referring to the Olympics. However he must have forgotten that the 1996 Olympics were in Atlanta!
Furthermore when asked about the famous leaders he stated:
Some famous leaders in Egypt are the Sun God and Upper and Lower Egypt.
Really the Sun God? What major decision has he made lately? Is he in the UN?
2. Under the section of historical facts I was told the following about Japan by student Sh:
In Japan they speak Spanish and the country was founded when two men
and a woman went to the space station.
Really the space station? How did that work? Spanish in Japan, now there's a thought!
3. Student M reports about the occupations of woman in Mexico
The occupation of woman in Mexico is to get pregnant and then take care of
babies.
When asked what the men do? She replied:
Ms. W the men don't do nuttin'!
4. Student Sy also completes a report on Mexico and shares with me:
In Mexico they've been bullfighting for millions of years!
I'm sad to tell you that we have learned about the Cavemen this year. Apparently either I didn't teach it well enough or she didn't learn. A million years! OMG
Needless to say I'm still laughing as I plug away at grading these papers. Most of them are smart kids who just didn't want to do the work or thought I just wouldn't want to read their paper. Others just aren't real smart yet. Either way the humor is great!
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Breath In Breath Out
1. Seriously, I had no idea that selling a house could be so much of a roller coaster ride. They told me...but I shrugged it off. They were right! The house was under contract and in the last minute the buyer bailed. "Thanks, thanks a lot!" So my stomach got turned inside out because after reading the inspectors list I didn't even want to live in my own home. In comes good ole' dad, bringing me back to reality. Now I've worked on getting some things in order and I've got another offer. I'm holding my breath. The ride goes up and down. Pray for me. I'm not sure how much longer I can remain calm and mature in the face of neighborhood harassment!
Breath!
2. Kids! I walked to the edge of the earth and nearly dived off in frustration today. One of my "babies" started the rumor that she slapped me and I cried. Really? Do any of you know me? So as the students started the buzz I just smiled and thought......clearly that student is still breathing so she obviously didn't hit me. Another "baby" threatened his mother on me....."she's gonna tell me how it is". Bring it on! I'm a good listener.
Breath!
3. My crush....yes I had one...he got scared and has "disappeared". Damn, I tried to tip toe but still enjoy his company. I crossed the "she's a safe girl" line and now I know he's gone. Truly, I hate being alone, I just want to find that someone who will "like" me as much as I "like" them. Am I asking to much? Know any single men?
Breath!
4. Eating! Why is it that when life hits the hills of a roller coaster I suddenly want to hold on to a......PIZZA? I've been doing so well at eating healthy, then the hills hit and I go on a full fledged pizza eating frenzy. Mmmmmmm thin crust, pan, cheese, pepperoni, sausage, bacon, tomatoes, spinach, mushroom...mmmmmm must I go one. So the pizza got me, but I will prevail! I must loose some weight by the time swim suit season arrives.
Breath!
Sunday, March 11, 2007
Shout OUT
HUGS!!!!!! Give AJ a big ole' hug for me and B!!!!
The Evil Circus People!
Walk This Way.....Or May That Way!
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Jaded
Thursday, February 8, 2007
So Much for New Years' Resolutions!
January, started off well. It was warm and we quickly approached B's 2nd Birthday. Grand and Nana made B a homemade Elmo cake....he loved it! He was showered with gifts from the singing alphabet magnets to his first basketball hoop. This would be a good place to let you know that in our house every ball is a "football".....I think I have a short "Carson Palmer" in my future. The party was small but we loved it and he really seemed to catch on to the all American idea of "more presents" ....followed by please! We rounded off the January birthdays by celebrating Nana's birthday. Breakfast at Aunt Megan and Uncle Ben's house, play time at Otter ville, and dinner at the Boat House...does it get any better?
January also had me placing my house up for sale. It's amazing...one day I just decided I'm ready. We're moving! The house has been on the market for a week or two, it is showing well....and the weather is bad so I'm not sweating yet. I'm looking forward to the buying part more than the selling, but one step at a time!
January I've been focusing on making new "mommy" friends. I found a great group online at meetup.com. I've gone to a couple of events and hope that the attendance will pick up so that I can make some connections outside of work and friends for B too. One of these events found us at an indoor play land where B took a topple and busted open his lip! I, being raised in the "suck it up" family, said oh your fine, mama's here. That was until he picked his head up and had blood pouring from his mouth and all over my shoulder. This nice man stopped by to let me know I should probably head the the ER. "ER?! Where's that? How will I get there?" He replied in your car and all my mind can think of is how will B sit in his car seat all alone while I drive and who's going to keep the blood from getting all over the place? We made it there fine and thankfully Aunt Megan met us at the hospital for a little support for MOM...B was fine at this point. He earned his first set of stitches at a whopping 8 and he was a real trooper. Even said please and thank you to the doctors....which was a site with his fat lip going on.
February had the family traveling to Columbus to surprise Unc for his birthday. Lindsay was a major player in the plans and even had us over for cake after lunch. Her apartment is great, cozy and decorated perfectly. I approve! We all had fun and it was great to see the two of them when we weren't rushing around for holiday stuff. Maybe we'll make a habit of visiting Columbus more often, or even meeting at the Outlet Malls. Lindsay? What do you think of that idea? Just holler!
So here we are to today! Megan and I will be heading to NYC next week. B gets his first real hair cut on Valentines Day. Other than that I've caught you up. So here's to trying to stay on top the interesting stuff! Karri I envy your faithfulness to blogging and I strive to be more like that everyday. Stay on me....I need all the support I can find!