August 26, 2011
I had a great morning with some me time which was much needed and so rejuvenating.
Fraser took Jacob back to see some old bosses and colleagues, some at NIST, one at CU. We met up at the new college cafeteria. Wow. It was a maze of different little sections, each with a different kind of food: BBQ, Asian, salads, sandwiches, Persian, sushi, dessert, breakfast. I think I've missed some. It was also lunch time and packed with college kids. Jacob was tired and cranky, the perfect birth control for all these youngsters. At one point, I heard someone say, "A baby? There's a baby in here?" Hahaha.... that's right, kids, feel freaked out. Put your condoms on.
This evening we had a BBQ at Waneka Lake. Jacob didn't think he wanted to go but once there, of course he had a great time. There's a fantastic playground, and there were lots of other kids. Including Emma. She saw me walking up to her and her face just lit up. And she was so excited to see "baby Jacob". It was adorable.
It felt wonderful to see lots of our old friends, including Paula and Lloyd who are the ones getting married. Just great to feel the familiarity and love from so many great people.
We went back to Jenny and Ethan's briefly after the BBQ. Jacob and Emma were upstairs in her room having such fun. And I had no worries! Emma was so great with him. He was just in heaven with her, too. There was some music rehearsed for the wedding - that was great. I miss having a musical group of friends. I soaked it all up as much as I could.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Day 333
August 25, 2011
Travel day. Jacob up at 5:30, no nap on plane. He did sleep a bit in the car ride to Boulder. Sooooo good to see some friends. Kamuran picked us up from the airport, Gab stopped by with her kids - who are so big! Jacob was having the time of his life running around with them. Really great welcome. It's good to be back.
Travel day. Jacob up at 5:30, no nap on plane. He did sleep a bit in the car ride to Boulder. Sooooo good to see some friends. Kamuran picked us up from the airport, Gab stopped by with her kids - who are so big! Jacob was having the time of his life running around with them. Really great welcome. It's good to be back.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Day 331: Quilting, cardmaking and sewing - oh my!
August 23, 2011
Had to go get an emissions test for the car this am. I'm working on registering the cars here in Oregon (I know, a little late). The hard part will be finding the titles.... hmmm......
I managed some quilting after Jacob finally went to sleep this afternoon. He was up in his bed for an hour, reading and talking to himself. Finally, I hear his little voice, all sweet, saying, "Mommy, it's time to get up now". I held him and sang to him for about three minutes and he was out. My quilt is starting to look somewhat more like a quilt. At least the back of it where you can see the quilting lines. One thing I learned today: pay attention to which edge you're closest to when stitching. I rolled almost the entire quilt and shoved it under the machine before realizing that I should've just sewn it from the other direction. Alas... one more thing noted for next time.
Today we were making a birthday card for someone special. Jacob loves "crayon melting" and I love cards so... we put the two together! I like it. Kind of modern and crafty all at once.
Had to stop by the pharmacy for something today and I overheard the guy in front of me talking about prices. Two hundred and eight dollars for his two prescriptions after insurance already paid $283!! The guy behind the counter said that that was nothing. He's seen some really insane ones, especially the cancer treating kind. How sad that at a time in your life when you really need something to help your health, the price of getting it will probably bankrupt you and ruin your life in other ways. If it was done well (which, I know, is the trick), how could it be a bad thing for everyone in a country to have the costs of their health care evened out and spread across everyone, especially people making so much money off these sick people already (i.e. pharmaceutical and insurance companies) . What kind of so-called Christian nation doesn't help their other countrymen in need? I am so, so, so, SO fortunate to be so healthy. My "problems" are nothing compared to some.
After dinner tonight, Jacob and Fraser went out behind the house collecting blackberries. I tell you, that sure is fun. Just going out and collecting free, delicious fruits. Yum.
And while Jacob had a bath with Fraser, I made him a little pair of jammy shorts. Yes, while he was taking a bath!! Twenty minutes. I am proud of myself.
This picture of him was actually taken after eating some "blueberry crips" but he looks pretty much the same after blackberry picking!
Had to go get an emissions test for the car this am. I'm working on registering the cars here in Oregon (I know, a little late). The hard part will be finding the titles.... hmmm......
Today we were making a birthday card for someone special. Jacob loves "crayon melting" and I love cards so... we put the two together! I like it. Kind of modern and crafty all at once.
Had to stop by the pharmacy for something today and I overheard the guy in front of me talking about prices. Two hundred and eight dollars for his two prescriptions after insurance already paid $283!! The guy behind the counter said that that was nothing. He's seen some really insane ones, especially the cancer treating kind. How sad that at a time in your life when you really need something to help your health, the price of getting it will probably bankrupt you and ruin your life in other ways. If it was done well (which, I know, is the trick), how could it be a bad thing for everyone in a country to have the costs of their health care evened out and spread across everyone, especially people making so much money off these sick people already (i.e. pharmaceutical and insurance companies) . What kind of so-called Christian nation doesn't help their other countrymen in need? I am so, so, so, SO fortunate to be so healthy. My "problems" are nothing compared to some.
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And while Jacob had a bath with Fraser, I made him a little pair of jammy shorts. Yes, while he was taking a bath!! Twenty minutes. I am proud of myself.
This picture of him was actually taken after eating some "blueberry crips" but he looks pretty much the same after blackberry picking!
Monday, August 22, 2011
Day 330
August 22, 2011
Jacob and I made some delicious blueberry muffins this morning. Then we headed outside to work in "the jungle" aka our garden next to the house. I did lots of trimming and it's looking much better now. Jacob didn't want me to clear out all of the jungle so I did leave some things. He was having a good time doing some bushwhacking through and under the branches and bushes. He definitely loves nature which makes me super happy. I wish I could have the no fear attitude he still does, especially when it comes to walking in the wet grass barefoot. The slugs come out in the cool evening and nighttime - by the droves. You can look down and see about 5 without even trying. At this point, I have no desire to go tromping out in the backyard. Call me a wuss, sure. I am. But he'll just check around a little (or not) and just go right out. I love it. And envy it.
This afternoon, we took a walk to the library. On the way we stopped (a few times) to pick some blackberries along the sidewalk. I should have brought a bucket! They're nice and ripe and sweet right now. Delicious! Finally we made it to the library for a quick drop off and pick up of books and then over to the water fountain. Jacob actually got in his bathing suit and was running all crazy in the fountain today. It was warm or, as Jacob put it, "kinda cool". It was adorable. Too bad cameras and water don't mix (and I didn't think to bring it) because there were some cute shots. Good times. And more blackberries coming back!! Oh, the poops these days.....
Jacob and I made some delicious blueberry muffins this morning. Then we headed outside to work in "the jungle" aka our garden next to the house. I did lots of trimming and it's looking much better now. Jacob didn't want me to clear out all of the jungle so I did leave some things. He was having a good time doing some bushwhacking through and under the branches and bushes. He definitely loves nature which makes me super happy. I wish I could have the no fear attitude he still does, especially when it comes to walking in the wet grass barefoot. The slugs come out in the cool evening and nighttime - by the droves. You can look down and see about 5 without even trying. At this point, I have no desire to go tromping out in the backyard. Call me a wuss, sure. I am. But he'll just check around a little (or not) and just go right out. I love it. And envy it.
This afternoon, we took a walk to the library. On the way we stopped (a few times) to pick some blackberries along the sidewalk. I should have brought a bucket! They're nice and ripe and sweet right now. Delicious! Finally we made it to the library for a quick drop off and pick up of books and then over to the water fountain. Jacob actually got in his bathing suit and was running all crazy in the fountain today. It was warm or, as Jacob put it, "kinda cool". It was adorable. Too bad cameras and water don't mix (and I didn't think to bring it) because there were some cute shots. Good times. And more blackberries coming back!! Oh, the poops these days.....
Day 329
August 20, 2011
We've had a couple really hot days yesterday and today (90's). We had the windows open all night and shut them once afternoon came on. It definitely helps. I'm not complaining, though. I'm just trying to take it in the best I can because I know come November or February, I'll be sorely missing days like this.
Did some grilling tonight and had a nice little picnic outside on the deck all together. It was just perfect. Beautiful weather, tasty food and great company.
Jacobisms:
"Hot coke-a-low" is hot chocolate.
He's looking in the pantry the other day and says, "I thought we had some apple juice in here but I don't see it." Just like he's musing for the day on apple juice.
We made some blueberry crisp this weekend which Jacob calls "blueberry crips"
We've had a couple really hot days yesterday and today (90's). We had the windows open all night and shut them once afternoon came on. It definitely helps. I'm not complaining, though. I'm just trying to take it in the best I can because I know come November or February, I'll be sorely missing days like this.
Did some grilling tonight and had a nice little picnic outside on the deck all together. It was just perfect. Beautiful weather, tasty food and great company.
Jacobisms:
"Hot coke-a-low" is hot chocolate.
He's looking in the pantry the other day and says, "I thought we had some apple juice in here but I don't see it." Just like he's musing for the day on apple juice.
We made some blueberry crisp this weekend which Jacob calls "blueberry crips"
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Day 328
August 20, 2011
Fraser and Jacob had some boy time this morning at the park, giving me some much needed quiet time in the house. It's very hard to find a balance with that because I want them to give me some time here alone but Fraser just wants to hang out here after being at work all week. It can be tricky. But the park was a hit and easy. And good for the fresh air and sunshine for Fraser.
I took the time to work on my quilting. The top quilting is going well. Slowly, but well. Usually this part would be faster if I were following a simple grid. But I'm just going over the already sewn seems which don't always run straight. Lots of turning and twisting which is tricky with a huge quilt. But, it is going well.
Someone at the grocery store told me there's an air show going on this weekend out at Hillsboro. I did not know that. It would've been fun to check it out. Also, very hot which would have made it more miserable. But I do like seeing all those cool planes. Maybe next year I'll have it on my radar a bit more. That's been something challenging this first year - trying not to miss anything. Of course we're going to miss things - there's SO much going on around here, especially during the summer. Even if we'd lived here for years we'd always be missing something. I've tried to stop giving myself grief over that because it really is impossible to fit everything in.
Fraser and Jacob had some boy time this morning at the park, giving me some much needed quiet time in the house. It's very hard to find a balance with that because I want them to give me some time here alone but Fraser just wants to hang out here after being at work all week. It can be tricky. But the park was a hit and easy. And good for the fresh air and sunshine for Fraser.
I took the time to work on my quilting. The top quilting is going well. Slowly, but well. Usually this part would be faster if I were following a simple grid. But I'm just going over the already sewn seems which don't always run straight. Lots of turning and twisting which is tricky with a huge quilt. But, it is going well.
Someone at the grocery store told me there's an air show going on this weekend out at Hillsboro. I did not know that. It would've been fun to check it out. Also, very hot which would have made it more miserable. But I do like seeing all those cool planes. Maybe next year I'll have it on my radar a bit more. That's been something challenging this first year - trying not to miss anything. Of course we're going to miss things - there's SO much going on around here, especially during the summer. Even if we'd lived here for years we'd always be missing something. I've tried to stop giving myself grief over that because it really is impossible to fit everything in.
Day 327
August 19, 2011
Blueberries!! Jacob and I met up with Brandin and Preston and their new little baby, Abbott, and went blueberry picking. Our friend Elizabeth told us about this great place out on Sauvie Island. It's just this family's house, a little old lady named Dee is in charge. Blueberries galore! And Dee is just the sweetest little lady. We picked and picked and picked blueberries. I got five pounds, Jacob probably ate almost a pound himself. It was hard to actually stop picking, there were so many berries around.
After Jacob had had his fill of that, we went out to a little beach spot behind the house. I'm not sure if it was the Columbia River or a channel of the Wilamette or what exactly but there was a pretty big sandy beach and water. After testing the water and having a little sand time, Jacob decided it was better to just be naked in order to play in the water. There was another family there with two boys, one of them the same age as Jacob, and they hit it off nicely (overall). Jacob was just jumping around in the water, falling down in it, "swimming" in it. Super happy! It was a gorgeous day for the whole thing; we all had a great time.
Consequently, Jacob missed his nap. He had about five minutes in the car right before we got home. He's back there looking sleepy and I say, "Are you going to fall asleep?" He says, "No, I'm just leanin' against the seat." Oh, okay. I looked in the mirror at one point and he repeated, "I'm just leanin'. I'm not sleeping." But eventually, he just couldn't last. I tried to bring him up to his bed at home but he wanted to read books first, then he was hungry. No way he was going down for a nap then, especially because it was already 4 o' clock by then.
So, the evening was a bit rough. You'd think he'd be ready to pass out around 7:30 but not my kid. He fought it for awhile, lots of crying, until finally we had to let him cry it out around 9pm. Right. So much for that method. Alas.... the blueberries are worth it.
Blueberries!! Jacob and I met up with Brandin and Preston and their new little baby, Abbott, and went blueberry picking. Our friend Elizabeth told us about this great place out on Sauvie Island. It's just this family's house, a little old lady named Dee is in charge. Blueberries galore! And Dee is just the sweetest little lady. We picked and picked and picked blueberries. I got five pounds, Jacob probably ate almost a pound himself. It was hard to actually stop picking, there were so many berries around.
After Jacob had had his fill of that, we went out to a little beach spot behind the house. I'm not sure if it was the Columbia River or a channel of the Wilamette or what exactly but there was a pretty big sandy beach and water. After testing the water and having a little sand time, Jacob decided it was better to just be naked in order to play in the water. There was another family there with two boys, one of them the same age as Jacob, and they hit it off nicely (overall). Jacob was just jumping around in the water, falling down in it, "swimming" in it. Super happy! It was a gorgeous day for the whole thing; we all had a great time.
Consequently, Jacob missed his nap. He had about five minutes in the car right before we got home. He's back there looking sleepy and I say, "Are you going to fall asleep?" He says, "No, I'm just leanin' against the seat." Oh, okay. I looked in the mirror at one point and he repeated, "I'm just leanin'. I'm not sleeping." But eventually, he just couldn't last. I tried to bring him up to his bed at home but he wanted to read books first, then he was hungry. No way he was going down for a nap then, especially because it was already 4 o' clock by then.
So, the evening was a bit rough. You'd think he'd be ready to pass out around 7:30 but not my kid. He fought it for awhile, lots of crying, until finally we had to let him cry it out around 9pm. Right. So much for that method. Alas.... the blueberries are worth it.
Day 326
August 18, 2011
(Mostly) a home day today. Whew! We've been going a lot this week and even though it has all be very fun, it's really nice to just have a home day where we don't go anywhere. Even still, we ended up driving Fraser out to the car repair place and then to the gym. BUT... it felt like a home day, which is maybe the most important part. Not feeling rushed about so much to get somewhere at a certain time is a good feeling, even when you're rushing to get to fun things. And what I noticed was that I was probably more productive today than on some of those other days when I feel all crazy and rushed about trying to get things done. Hmmm..... my mind certainly does play tricks on me. Relax in order to feel better and sometimes, accomplish more. I like that.
This evening we went over the Bethany shopping area for another street party. They have three during the summer. This time we had a little dinner, some margaritas and walked about listening to the music. Jacob won a little yo-yo balloon (a barely filled water balloon on a rubber band) which he as thrilled about. Best part - we walked there. Yay for not having to get in the car.
(Mostly) a home day today. Whew! We've been going a lot this week and even though it has all be very fun, it's really nice to just have a home day where we don't go anywhere. Even still, we ended up driving Fraser out to the car repair place and then to the gym. BUT... it felt like a home day, which is maybe the most important part. Not feeling rushed about so much to get somewhere at a certain time is a good feeling, even when you're rushing to get to fun things. And what I noticed was that I was probably more productive today than on some of those other days when I feel all crazy and rushed about trying to get things done. Hmmm..... my mind certainly does play tricks on me. Relax in order to feel better and sometimes, accomplish more. I like that.
This evening we went over the Bethany shopping area for another street party. They have three during the summer. This time we had a little dinner, some margaritas and walked about listening to the music. Jacob won a little yo-yo balloon (a barely filled water balloon on a rubber band) which he as thrilled about. Best part - we walked there. Yay for not having to get in the car.
Day 325
August 17, 2011
Blue museum day. Jacob has been asking to go to the museum since we got back from Georgia. We finally made a plan. Of course, he loved it. The ball room, the robots, all the conveyor belts he could find. He was a happy camper.
Blue museum day. Jacob has been asking to go to the museum since we got back from Georgia. We finally made a plan. Of course, he loved it. The ball room, the robots, all the conveyor belts he could find. He was a happy camper.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Day 324
August 16, 2011
We had a playdate at our friend Elizabeth's house today. She's the mom. I love her house. It's one of the old Portland homes that just has such character aka lots of work that has been put (and still needs to be put) into it. It's great.
It was perfect. There were five of us total. The kids were having such a blast. Jacob was just running back and forth with his buddy Isaac. It was fantastic. The backyard was really nicely set up for this because the kids had a little run going on and we were at a table a little out of the way. Perfect. We got to hang out, talk, listen, snack. Sigh. What pleasure. And the weather was just fantastic too. I have to say - it's been so great getting to know all these great women and their kids over the past year. The group has really come together and grown, and I feel very special to be a part of that transformation. We are all a bit spread out (especially us) but it helps so much to have other moms with kids the same age to talk to and just be with. Knowing I'm not alone in a visceral way is necessary.
Of course, this great experience also made me feel a bit frustrated when I got home because of my dislike for our house these days. Hmm.... still not sure what to do about that one. There are definitely benefits to living here. But also drawbacks. Figuring out what else to do is overwhelming and unclear based on what we are doing or not doing or don't know that we're going to be doing. Deep breath. Patience. It won't be forever. Something will shift eventually.
Meanwhile, I borrowed a book from Karen called The Family Dinner. Figured I'd use it to try and motivate myself again on cooking. It is helping. The premise is the importance of mealtimes (namely dinner) and sitting together every night and making it a ritual. There are lots of great things that come out of this: better health, more conversation, better coping skills, less drug/alcohol abuse from teens. All this makes sense and something that, until recently, we haven't had to study in order to know and do. Now, with the age of fast food and fast schedules it's not so common for everyone to sit together. I remember eating together most of my life growing up. And I remember playing games and having some great conversations during and after the meal.
Tonight I made one of the recipes from the book and we had a picnic outside.
Ironically, Fraser worked late tonight so it was just Jacob and me. BUT... we had a lovely time at the table together. It's a start. And maybe the beginning of more motivation for me.
Fortunately, Fraser did come home early enough to play a little Cranium before bath and bedtime. Too funny!
We had a playdate at our friend Elizabeth's house today. She's the mom. I love her house. It's one of the old Portland homes that just has such character aka lots of work that has been put (and still needs to be put) into it. It's great.
It was perfect. There were five of us total. The kids were having such a blast. Jacob was just running back and forth with his buddy Isaac. It was fantastic. The backyard was really nicely set up for this because the kids had a little run going on and we were at a table a little out of the way. Perfect. We got to hang out, talk, listen, snack. Sigh. What pleasure. And the weather was just fantastic too. I have to say - it's been so great getting to know all these great women and their kids over the past year. The group has really come together and grown, and I feel very special to be a part of that transformation. We are all a bit spread out (especially us) but it helps so much to have other moms with kids the same age to talk to and just be with. Knowing I'm not alone in a visceral way is necessary.
Of course, this great experience also made me feel a bit frustrated when I got home because of my dislike for our house these days. Hmm.... still not sure what to do about that one. There are definitely benefits to living here. But also drawbacks. Figuring out what else to do is overwhelming and unclear based on what we are doing or not doing or don't know that we're going to be doing. Deep breath. Patience. It won't be forever. Something will shift eventually.
Meanwhile, I borrowed a book from Karen called The Family Dinner. Figured I'd use it to try and motivate myself again on cooking. It is helping. The premise is the importance of mealtimes (namely dinner) and sitting together every night and making it a ritual. There are lots of great things that come out of this: better health, more conversation, better coping skills, less drug/alcohol abuse from teens. All this makes sense and something that, until recently, we haven't had to study in order to know and do. Now, with the age of fast food and fast schedules it's not so common for everyone to sit together. I remember eating together most of my life growing up. And I remember playing games and having some great conversations during and after the meal.
Ironically, Fraser worked late tonight so it was just Jacob and me. BUT... we had a lovely time at the table together. It's a start. And maybe the beginning of more motivation for me.
Day 323: Ah, Nature
August 15, 2011
Three months until Jacob's third birthday. I'm only saying this because I am reminded of it almost every single day these days. Jacob keeps finding candies in the pantry and so, he wants his birthday to be right NOW. It's always tough to wait for something so exciting but especially when you're little.
A better day than yesterday although still, we're moving through stuff these days that's just difficult. Life, sometimes, is just like that.
Jacob and I went to a new nature place this morning. Tryon Creek Nature Preserve. Very nice. I've been feeling a bit disconnected with the natural world. It's always so helpful to go out amongst the trees and dirt and birds and grasses and remember that really, life goes on. No matter how hard things seem at any one time, life continues. Being out in nature is like getting a big, nurturing hug, making my stress level plummet. Growing up in Michigan we always went to a place called Kensington; I have such great, great memories of that place over the years with my family and myself. I look for places that give me those same feelings of home, belonging, soothing calm. Even though the ecosystem is very different here, this place had some similar feels to it. That was nice. Refreshing. It helped me go back into my life with a much more relaxed attitude.
Jacob himself loved the adventure as well. He ran almost the entire time - and we went a little ways over a mile. There were some cool bridges where he threw some leaves over and watched them head downstream. He pointed out a fern to me (impressive!). We saw a few lovely banana slug specimens as well. Gulp. I try not to seem too grossed out. If he doesn't mind them on his own, then it's up to me to try and keep it that way.
I'm glad we went. It really helped to get out of the house and into nature!
Three months until Jacob's third birthday. I'm only saying this because I am reminded of it almost every single day these days. Jacob keeps finding candies in the pantry and so, he wants his birthday to be right NOW. It's always tough to wait for something so exciting but especially when you're little.
A better day than yesterday although still, we're moving through stuff these days that's just difficult. Life, sometimes, is just like that.
I'm glad we went. It really helped to get out of the house and into nature!
Day 321
August 13, 2011
Lots more quiltworking today. I'm getting very excited about my finished product. The border is on the top, the back is measured out. Now just the quilt sandwich and then.... the actual quilting. I've never done something so big. I was thinking about doing a simple diamond pattern all over it but then I got to thinking about the logos. Do I really want them to be stitched over? Probably not. Now, I'm thinking about just stitching in the ditch, meaning just quilting over existing stitches. We'll see. I'll have to take a look and think on it some.
Lots more quiltworking today. I'm getting very excited about my finished product. The border is on the top, the back is measured out. Now just the quilt sandwich and then.... the actual quilting. I've never done something so big. I was thinking about doing a simple diamond pattern all over it but then I got to thinking about the logos. Do I really want them to be stitched over? Probably not. Now, I'm thinking about just stitching in the ditch, meaning just quilting over existing stitches. We'll see. I'll have to take a look and think on it some.
Day 320
August 12, 2011
Up early so we headed to the museum BEFORE meeting up with our friends at the zoo. That's right... double whammy. Jacob didn't want to even go to the zoo but in the end, the compromise worked.
It was nice to hang out with some other moms, get some grownup time in. Been lacking that these days.
And had another birthday party at Magnolia park. A bit unusual. A game or two for the grownups, cake and then just mingling. Still... nice enough.
Up early so we headed to the museum BEFORE meeting up with our friends at the zoo. That's right... double whammy. Jacob didn't want to even go to the zoo but in the end, the compromise worked.
It was nice to hang out with some other moms, get some grownup time in. Been lacking that these days.
And had another birthday party at Magnolia park. A bit unusual. A game or two for the grownups, cake and then just mingling. Still... nice enough.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Day 319
August 11, 2011
Jacob has been obsessed with his birthday these days. He really wants it to come so he can have candy. But this is what that translates into, "It's my birthday now! It's my birthday now, now. I can have candy now." All morning long. Goodness. I can't wait until I have to tell him, yes. you can have candy but only two pieces all day. He'll love that one.
We made it out to the fabric store, and I found some nice soft cotton fabric for the backing of my quilt. Very exciting.
I went to the gym tonight after Fraser came home and came upon a Zumba class. It's at such a late time that I don't go because of Jacob. But I had the chance this evening, and I took it. It was really great. Just to dance and have fun while working out. It felt relaxing and distracting.
O, yes, and we made Christmas cookies today. Christmas in August, I know. We've been having some hard days recently. So, I decided to do something a little wacky. It was fun. Jacob loved helping roll out the dough, cut the cookies and sprinkle (or dump, really) some sugar on top. He was adorable in his little green apron with a smudge of flour on his nose. He did not want his picture taken, however, so there is nothing but words to share with you all.
I've also really been thinking more and more about my next venture in writing. The blogosphere has it's enticements (you're just "published" when you hit 'post'). It's also an area that is so flooded because of that ease with which people can write anything. I don't know that I have a different niche or approach to bring. There are so many great, great blogs out there about crafting, sewing, living with nature, cooking, you name it by moms who seem to have more energy than me or at least better organizational skills. So... I'm pondering. I don't know where I'll end up. I do know that I've been enjoying writing this much. I also know that I want to write about more than the mundane. Or at least make the mundane sound not so mundane.
Jacob has been obsessed with his birthday these days. He really wants it to come so he can have candy. But this is what that translates into, "It's my birthday now! It's my birthday now, now. I can have candy now." All morning long. Goodness. I can't wait until I have to tell him, yes. you can have candy but only two pieces all day. He'll love that one.
We made it out to the fabric store, and I found some nice soft cotton fabric for the backing of my quilt. Very exciting.
I went to the gym tonight after Fraser came home and came upon a Zumba class. It's at such a late time that I don't go because of Jacob. But I had the chance this evening, and I took it. It was really great. Just to dance and have fun while working out. It felt relaxing and distracting.
O, yes, and we made Christmas cookies today. Christmas in August, I know. We've been having some hard days recently. So, I decided to do something a little wacky. It was fun. Jacob loved helping roll out the dough, cut the cookies and sprinkle (or dump, really) some sugar on top. He was adorable in his little green apron with a smudge of flour on his nose. He did not want his picture taken, however, so there is nothing but words to share with you all.
I've also really been thinking more and more about my next venture in writing. The blogosphere has it's enticements (you're just "published" when you hit 'post'). It's also an area that is so flooded because of that ease with which people can write anything. I don't know that I have a different niche or approach to bring. There are so many great, great blogs out there about crafting, sewing, living with nature, cooking, you name it by moms who seem to have more energy than me or at least better organizational skills. So... I'm pondering. I don't know where I'll end up. I do know that I've been enjoying writing this much. I also know that I want to write about more than the mundane. Or at least make the mundane sound not so mundane.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Day 318
August 10, 2011
This morning was one of THOSE mornings. We'd played for awhile which was fine. But then it was time to get ready for our day. Right. An hour. An hour of: asking, ordering, cajoling, comforting, telling, crying (on his part although I almost felt like it a couple times), repeating and yes, a little bit of shouting. Oh. My. Goodness. I had a plan. Then I had another plan. Finally, we settled on a third plan. We actually were able to get out of the house, do a little jog in the stroller, pick some blackberries and end up at the park. Whew.
At the park I talked to a mom who I see all the time at the gym. She was telling me that they are actually going to be moving to Shanghai!! For two years! A work transfer for her husband. Yeah, that puts things in perspective for me. Moving out to Portland was nothing compared to that. Something like that would be exciting and terrifying all at the same time. Wow.
And speaking of moves, it's coming up to one whole year soon that we'll have been here. Pretty crazy, really. In many ways, it feels like it's been very fast. I've been pondering what to write about next. Ideas?
Jacobisms:
This morning after Fraser left for work:
"I miss him when he goes to work. Cause I love him so much."
Okay, it has been one of THOSE whole entire days. One of those days when I felt like I lost patience and reprimanded and had to apologize way too many times. Not fun. When it gets like this, we both just feed off each other, too, and it doesn't help either one of us get out of the cycle. Granted, he's also two and I'm an adult (most days). I'll regroup and make tomorrow a better day for both of us (fingers crossed).
This morning was one of THOSE mornings. We'd played for awhile which was fine. But then it was time to get ready for our day. Right. An hour. An hour of: asking, ordering, cajoling, comforting, telling, crying (on his part although I almost felt like it a couple times), repeating and yes, a little bit of shouting. Oh. My. Goodness. I had a plan. Then I had another plan. Finally, we settled on a third plan. We actually were able to get out of the house, do a little jog in the stroller, pick some blackberries and end up at the park. Whew.
At the park I talked to a mom who I see all the time at the gym. She was telling me that they are actually going to be moving to Shanghai!! For two years! A work transfer for her husband. Yeah, that puts things in perspective for me. Moving out to Portland was nothing compared to that. Something like that would be exciting and terrifying all at the same time. Wow.
And speaking of moves, it's coming up to one whole year soon that we'll have been here. Pretty crazy, really. In many ways, it feels like it's been very fast. I've been pondering what to write about next. Ideas?
Jacobisms:
This morning after Fraser left for work:
"I miss him when he goes to work. Cause I love him so much."
Okay, it has been one of THOSE whole entire days. One of those days when I felt like I lost patience and reprimanded and had to apologize way too many times. Not fun. When it gets like this, we both just feed off each other, too, and it doesn't help either one of us get out of the cycle. Granted, he's also two and I'm an adult (most days). I'll regroup and make tomorrow a better day for both of us (fingers crossed).
Day 317
August 9, 2011
And Jacob was awake at 5:20 this morning. Right. I REALLY have to do something. I'm trying to move nap time up closer to twelve so that he can sleep his 3 hours but still go to bed at a decent hour. If that doesn't work, I may have to resort to the drastic measure of waking him up after only two hours. We shall see.
This morning our friends Danna and Harley Rose came over. Danna used to work as an interior decorator, so she was helping me with some paint colour ideas. If we're going to live here for a whole other year, I think I might be able to motivate to paint a few rooms that have dreary colours. It's definitely hard being a renter after owning a house. I feel very unsettled or like it's not worth it to make this place feel settled because we won't be here for long. But then.... it feels very unsettled. Balance. Must find balance.
Quick question: has anybody tried making a comment recently. I was told by one person that she couldn't post something when she tried to, and I haven't gotten a new comment in a long while. Just wondering. Oh, and if can't write a message here, please email me so I actually get the message :)
One of our neighbour's kid had his birthday party yesterday at a nice park. Jacob had lot of fun running about and playing. Lots of family at this party: aunts, uncles, cousins. Made me miss my siblings.
And Jacob was awake at 5:20 this morning. Right. I REALLY have to do something. I'm trying to move nap time up closer to twelve so that he can sleep his 3 hours but still go to bed at a decent hour. If that doesn't work, I may have to resort to the drastic measure of waking him up after only two hours. We shall see.
This morning our friends Danna and Harley Rose came over. Danna used to work as an interior decorator, so she was helping me with some paint colour ideas. If we're going to live here for a whole other year, I think I might be able to motivate to paint a few rooms that have dreary colours. It's definitely hard being a renter after owning a house. I feel very unsettled or like it's not worth it to make this place feel settled because we won't be here for long. But then.... it feels very unsettled. Balance. Must find balance.
Quick question: has anybody tried making a comment recently. I was told by one person that she couldn't post something when she tried to, and I haven't gotten a new comment in a long while. Just wondering. Oh, and if can't write a message here, please email me so I actually get the message :)
One of our neighbour's kid had his birthday party yesterday at a nice park. Jacob had lot of fun running about and playing. Lots of family at this party: aunts, uncles, cousins. Made me miss my siblings.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Day 316: Quilt Top
August 8, 2011
Well, folks, here we have it - my (almost) finished quilt top!!! These are all the t-shirts, plus a few pieces of fabric to fill in gaps. It has taken a long time. Some rows were super easy (the ones I had cut the same size). Other rows were more of a jigsaw puzzle that I don't feel the need to ever repeat again. Now, all that's left to do is hand sew a few little internal corners that didn't match up, do some sashing probably, backing and binding. Yes, there still is kind of a bit yet to do. But really, it is almost done. This was definitely the hardest, most time consuming part. And it's finished! Whoohoo!
I went to a yoga class this morning to rejuvenate. We were working on strength today (and this month). Not only physical strength but internal strength as well. That's the great part about yoga - it connects your physical body to your emotional and spiritual body. Practicing strength, patience during hard times, breathing into where you need more space, letting go when you need to, listening to and recognizing your body's voice. Giving myself this time to connect with myself definitely helps me throughout my days to be a more whole person, and I'm grateful to have the opportunity to share my yoga practice with a teacher and other students.
Oh, bedtime tonight.... I tried the timer idea, which worked great. But all the time I saved by doing that Jacob made up for once in bed. He wanted the lights on, the door open a "big crack", more books. Then I hear him calling me again, "Mommy, I need to pee now." Can't say no to that one. Sigh. He didn't go to sleep until 10 o'clock. Must work on this issue.
I went to a yoga class this morning to rejuvenate. We were working on strength today (and this month). Not only physical strength but internal strength as well. That's the great part about yoga - it connects your physical body to your emotional and spiritual body. Practicing strength, patience during hard times, breathing into where you need more space, letting go when you need to, listening to and recognizing your body's voice. Giving myself this time to connect with myself definitely helps me throughout my days to be a more whole person, and I'm grateful to have the opportunity to share my yoga practice with a teacher and other students.
Oh, bedtime tonight.... I tried the timer idea, which worked great. But all the time I saved by doing that Jacob made up for once in bed. He wanted the lights on, the door open a "big crack", more books. Then I hear him calling me again, "Mommy, I need to pee now." Can't say no to that one. Sigh. He didn't go to sleep until 10 o'clock. Must work on this issue.
Monday, August 8, 2011
Day 315: Concert in Washington Park
August 7, 2011
What a lovely, relaxing Sunday. I've been working on my t-shirt quilt some more. I'm getting a lot closer to being done!
Jacob picked me a dandelion today from the yard ("the best one", he said) and gave it to me: "That means you love me."
This evening we headed to Washington Park. There's a festival going on with free concerts. It's a little crazy getting there as the parking is not ideal. We took a shuttle. But it was nice once we got there. It's by the rose garden. So many roses, every colour of the rainbow and then some. Beautiful. Jacob loved running through the rows of roses. Then he found a fountain and before I knew it, he was down to his diaper. Yes, I took off his clothes, grudgingly. What the heck. It's not every day you get to play in a fountain in the rose garden. I told my practical, grownup side to just stay out of the decision.
What a lovely, relaxing Sunday. I've been working on my t-shirt quilt some more. I'm getting a lot closer to being done!
Jacob picked me a dandelion today from the yard ("the best one", he said) and gave it to me: "That means you love me."
This evening we headed to Washington Park. There's a festival going on with free concerts. It's a little crazy getting there as the parking is not ideal. We took a shuttle. But it was nice once we got there. It's by the rose garden. So many roses, every colour of the rainbow and then some. Beautiful. Jacob loved running through the rows of roses. Then he found a fountain and before I knew it, he was down to his diaper. Yes, I took off his clothes, grudgingly. What the heck. It's not every day you get to play in a fountain in the rose garden. I told my practical, grownup side to just stay out of the decision.
Day 314
August 6, 2011
Farmer's Market!! That's a highlight of my Saturday. There's so much great produce. And tons more things (meats, seafood, eggs, dairy, sweets, breads) that we don't even indulge in. Plus the playground and swings that Jacob loves so much. Live music. Very fun.
I made Jacob a sandwich for lunch and cut it into a heart. He says, "Aww... a heart. That means you love me." :)
Fraser and I got to go out tonight too! His work gave their employees gift cards to some nice restaurants. We got a babysitter for 4 o' clock! It felt like a vacation day. He really likes our babysitter, too, which is great.
We went to Portland City Grill, a restaurant on the 30th floor of a building, giving you great views of the city, river and surrounding countryside. We got to look out of Mt. Hood. Very clear day too. The food was delicious - as were the drinks. Fraser ordered rack of lamb and I got Dungeness crab stuffed halibut. Whoa. Delishy! Fraser's lamb was slightly more cooked than he'd ordered it but when they asked if they could make him a new one, he said no, it still tastes very good. However, a manager still came out to apologize, our waitress apologized every time she came to check on us and they gave us our dessert course free!!! I thought they just meant dessert but we got a dessert (which was an amazing chocolate cake with toffee and pudding and sauce) and port and Scotch. They took care of all of it! We were amazed but then, it is a high end restaurant. Very good customer service on their part.
We also went to a movie afterward. Harry Potter. Again. It was still great. Maybe not quite as suspenseful but still really great. Sigh... I can't believe this is it. What a saga. I will be enjoying these stories and movies for years to come.
Farmer's Market!! That's a highlight of my Saturday. There's so much great produce. And tons more things (meats, seafood, eggs, dairy, sweets, breads) that we don't even indulge in. Plus the playground and swings that Jacob loves so much. Live music. Very fun.
I made Jacob a sandwich for lunch and cut it into a heart. He says, "Aww... a heart. That means you love me." :)
Fraser and I got to go out tonight too! His work gave their employees gift cards to some nice restaurants. We got a babysitter for 4 o' clock! It felt like a vacation day. He really likes our babysitter, too, which is great.
We went to Portland City Grill, a restaurant on the 30th floor of a building, giving you great views of the city, river and surrounding countryside. We got to look out of Mt. Hood. Very clear day too. The food was delicious - as were the drinks. Fraser ordered rack of lamb and I got Dungeness crab stuffed halibut. Whoa. Delishy! Fraser's lamb was slightly more cooked than he'd ordered it but when they asked if they could make him a new one, he said no, it still tastes very good. However, a manager still came out to apologize, our waitress apologized every time she came to check on us and they gave us our dessert course free!!! I thought they just meant dessert but we got a dessert (which was an amazing chocolate cake with toffee and pudding and sauce) and port and Scotch. They took care of all of it! We were amazed but then, it is a high end restaurant. Very good customer service on their part.
We also went to a movie afterward. Harry Potter. Again. It was still great. Maybe not quite as suspenseful but still really great. Sigh... I can't believe this is it. What a saga. I will be enjoying these stories and movies for years to come.
Day 313
August 5, 2011
Friday. Hmm.... can't remember what happened. That's what happens when I wait to write. Although, it is only Monday that I'm writing this.....
Friday. Hmm.... can't remember what happened. That's what happens when I wait to write. Although, it is only Monday that I'm writing this.....
Day 312
August 4, 2011
Pool day! We've been hitting up the pool all we can, taking advantage of the great weather that doesn't last more than a minor fraction of the year here.
Jacob and Shilo have been getting into it recently and there have been a few scratching incidents. Today, after he'd already been scratched once and we'd talked about it a lot, he still went out to see her on the deck. He was crouching down next to her saying, "I want to pet you, Shilo kitty. I want to pet you." He kept saying it like he expected her to speak back. It was adorable.
Went over to our little shopping/fountain area for a festival this evening. We kind of got a late start but it was still very fun. All the shops have little tables set up with info and little giveaways. There was live music, a couple bouncy castles, face painting. It was very fun. And all within walking distance. There's one more later in the month that we'll have to go to (earlier).
Pool day! We've been hitting up the pool all we can, taking advantage of the great weather that doesn't last more than a minor fraction of the year here.
Jacob and Shilo have been getting into it recently and there have been a few scratching incidents. Today, after he'd already been scratched once and we'd talked about it a lot, he still went out to see her on the deck. He was crouching down next to her saying, "I want to pet you, Shilo kitty. I want to pet you." He kept saying it like he expected her to speak back. It was adorable.
Went over to our little shopping/fountain area for a festival this evening. We kind of got a late start but it was still very fun. All the shops have little tables set up with info and little giveaways. There was live music, a couple bouncy castles, face painting. It was very fun. And all within walking distance. There's one more later in the month that we'll have to go to (earlier).
Day 311
August 3, 2011
5am Jacob was awake. Wanted to come in with us, I told him he had to stay in bed longer. I sang him a couple songs and laid him back down. "That's better, Mommy. That's better now." Of course that really only lasted about 15 minutes. Blast.
Stopped by the outdoor market for some local fruits: peaches, cherries, and crazy amounts of berries! Strawberries, blueberries, boysenberries, marionberries, raspberries, tayberries...
"Snozzberries? Who's ever heard of a snozzberry?"
"We are the music makers and we are the dreamers of dreams."
Jacob was playing in one of the kitchen drawers today, asking what different things were. He pulls out a wine stopper and asks, "What's this okra thing?" Hahaha....
Bath time these days has become quite a ritual. I usually start an hour before I hope to get him to bed so I don't feel rushed and cranky about his lolly-gagging. In the tub one of his recent favourite games involves little finger puppets (a hammerhead shark and killer whale) that go on adventures, usually to museums. After the water drains but he's still in the tub, he slides up and down and has me tell him the story of when I was a little girl in the bath:
When Uncle Nick and I were little, we would play slip and slide like that in the
bath too. But then Grammy or Gigi would come in and say, "Hey, guys, knock
it off, you're getting water outside the tub!"
At this point he slides from the back of the tub to the front. He asks me to repeat the story until I tell him he has to get out. I have not timed how long that would last if I didn't make him get out. Once he is out, he wants to be buried in his horse towel AND raccoon towel and we play "where is Jacob?" Again, this could go on a lot longer than I let it. The teeth are usually a bit of a struggle and then there's still lotion and diaper and jammies. Whew! Trying to rush things only results in mass hysteria and things taking even longer. I'm going to try something new, though. A timer. I'll set it and tell him he has to get out or stop whatever game we're on when it goes off. We'll see what happens. I don't mind that things take a long time just that when it's time to be done, it's not easy moving things along. Alas.... he is two.
5am Jacob was awake. Wanted to come in with us, I told him he had to stay in bed longer. I sang him a couple songs and laid him back down. "That's better, Mommy. That's better now." Of course that really only lasted about 15 minutes. Blast.
Stopped by the outdoor market for some local fruits: peaches, cherries, and crazy amounts of berries! Strawberries, blueberries, boysenberries, marionberries, raspberries, tayberries...
"Snozzberries? Who's ever heard of a snozzberry?"
"We are the music makers and we are the dreamers of dreams."
Jacob was playing in one of the kitchen drawers today, asking what different things were. He pulls out a wine stopper and asks, "What's this okra thing?" Hahaha....
Bath time these days has become quite a ritual. I usually start an hour before I hope to get him to bed so I don't feel rushed and cranky about his lolly-gagging. In the tub one of his recent favourite games involves little finger puppets (a hammerhead shark and killer whale) that go on adventures, usually to museums. After the water drains but he's still in the tub, he slides up and down and has me tell him the story of when I was a little girl in the bath:
When Uncle Nick and I were little, we would play slip and slide like that in the
bath too. But then Grammy or Gigi would come in and say, "Hey, guys, knock
it off, you're getting water outside the tub!"
At this point he slides from the back of the tub to the front. He asks me to repeat the story until I tell him he has to get out. I have not timed how long that would last if I didn't make him get out. Once he is out, he wants to be buried in his horse towel AND raccoon towel and we play "where is Jacob?" Again, this could go on a lot longer than I let it. The teeth are usually a bit of a struggle and then there's still lotion and diaper and jammies. Whew! Trying to rush things only results in mass hysteria and things taking even longer. I'm going to try something new, though. A timer. I'll set it and tell him he has to get out or stop whatever game we're on when it goes off. We'll see what happens. I don't mind that things take a long time just that when it's time to be done, it's not easy moving things along. Alas.... he is two.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Day 310
August 2, 2011
As down and out as I felt yesterday, I felt as motivated today. This morning Jacob and I trimmed the bushes in half our yard while the laundry was going inside. All this before we even headed to the gym for a yoga class! During naptime I was able to make several calls that I've been putting off. I really dread the calls sometimes, but they usually go really quickly. And it feels so satisfying to get them done. A lesson to be learned again and again about procrastination: it never makes anything better and it always, always, always feels better when the job is done. In high school I used to do my math homework first because it was the subject I least enjoyed. English and Biology were saved for last. I should remember those lessons.
Jacob has been shouting a lot these days. Shouting when he wants something. Shouting when he's excited. Shouting when he's frustrated, tired, happy, mad. You name it, he's shouting. It makes me stop and question how much I'm shouting. Do I shout a lot? I know I do sometimes when I'm frustrated and we talk about that. But all the time? I think that's something he's expanded on. Oh, right, and he's 2 and 1/2.
Jacob is obsessed these days with mimicking. Mimi and Pop's dog, us sometimes, Shilo kitty. He wants to go in all the bushes after her. I have to pull him out of places, telling him that kitties can go some places where we can't go. He usually shouts something about wanting to do it: "I WANT to follow her!" Yes, well... we all know the line all too well. You can't always do what you want. Sigh... Life. What an experience.
As down and out as I felt yesterday, I felt as motivated today. This morning Jacob and I trimmed the bushes in half our yard while the laundry was going inside. All this before we even headed to the gym for a yoga class! During naptime I was able to make several calls that I've been putting off. I really dread the calls sometimes, but they usually go really quickly. And it feels so satisfying to get them done. A lesson to be learned again and again about procrastination: it never makes anything better and it always, always, always feels better when the job is done. In high school I used to do my math homework first because it was the subject I least enjoyed. English and Biology were saved for last. I should remember those lessons.
Jacob has been shouting a lot these days. Shouting when he wants something. Shouting when he's excited. Shouting when he's frustrated, tired, happy, mad. You name it, he's shouting. It makes me stop and question how much I'm shouting. Do I shout a lot? I know I do sometimes when I'm frustrated and we talk about that. But all the time? I think that's something he's expanded on. Oh, right, and he's 2 and 1/2.
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| "Makin' purple." |
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| Elbow painting - his own idea |
Day 309
August 1, 2011
Jacobisms:
We were coming home today and he says, "You miss me when we are not at home." It took me awhile to question it out with him but finally he said that what he meant was that Daddy missed him while he was at work. I asked if he missed Daddy. He says, "Uh-huh. Cause I love him so, so, so much."
I hear him wake up from his nap and he's saying, "Mommy, it's morning time now."
The first real day back from vacation with Fraser off at work. It felt horrible in the beginning. The epitome of a Monday. Blah. I tried to get positive, tried to motivate around the house, tried Skyping with my family. Nothing was working great. Finally, we left the house (at 9:45 - when you get up around 5:30 it takes a long time for everyone else to be awake and open). I headed for the gym, planning on just running on the track, anything to just be out of the house trying to get my endorphins working again. My pilates instructor was there and was teaching a new class: TRX. I have no idea what that stands for but the equipment for this consists of straps hanging from the ceiling that you use to do your exercises. You are essentially lifting your own weight when doing any of the moves. It was like pilates on crack. Interesting.
We did a couple more errands and by that time, I was feeling much better. Did some business during naptime and took a little time for me as well. The day definitely felt better the longer it went on. Not that I wasn't totally ready to be done as soon as Jacob went down. Still, we made it through.
Jacobisms:
We were coming home today and he says, "You miss me when we are not at home." It took me awhile to question it out with him but finally he said that what he meant was that Daddy missed him while he was at work. I asked if he missed Daddy. He says, "Uh-huh. Cause I love him so, so, so much."
I hear him wake up from his nap and he's saying, "Mommy, it's morning time now."
The first real day back from vacation with Fraser off at work. It felt horrible in the beginning. The epitome of a Monday. Blah. I tried to get positive, tried to motivate around the house, tried Skyping with my family. Nothing was working great. Finally, we left the house (at 9:45 - when you get up around 5:30 it takes a long time for everyone else to be awake and open). I headed for the gym, planning on just running on the track, anything to just be out of the house trying to get my endorphins working again. My pilates instructor was there and was teaching a new class: TRX. I have no idea what that stands for but the equipment for this consists of straps hanging from the ceiling that you use to do your exercises. You are essentially lifting your own weight when doing any of the moves. It was like pilates on crack. Interesting.
We did a couple more errands and by that time, I was feeling much better. Did some business during naptime and took a little time for me as well. The day definitely felt better the longer it went on. Not that I wasn't totally ready to be done as soon as Jacob went down. Still, we made it through.
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| He missed his kitty |
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