The 30-Day Shred includes a lot of squatting. I'm being careful to execute each movement properly to minimize knee pain. Nevertheless, I'm noticing that my right knee is hurting more than usual as I descend the stairs. It's not bad enough for me to quit the program, but I think I need to do something about it.
Years ago my right knee gave out as I was walking down stairs. After some research, I bought a brace, which got me through the episode. For several years after, I always packed the brace when we traveled just in case it happened again, which it never did. But now I think a knee brace is just what I need and, of course, I can't find it. It's probably in one of our suitcases currently buried as we prepare for the foundation fix.
So, with ice and snow on the way, I went to my reliable online store, Amazon. They had the perfect brace and, since I have Prime, it will be here Wednesday. I love the internet!
(Day 7 of 30-Day Shred: Didn't seem as long. . .must be building endurance?)
May 2018
Monday, January 31, 2011
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Cupcake Bargain
Today I had a cupcake craving. So I decided to visit the Schnucks bakery while I was grocery shopping. In their case they had a variety of cupcakes but they were all packaged in half and full dozens. I just wanted two cupcakes, one for me and one for Jim. The beauty of a cupcake is portion control. A portion is one cupcake, not six or twelve.
I decided to ask if I could get just two cupcakes. Turned out I could and they would be made to order! I chose the cake and icing flavors, and the sprinkles. At a free-standing bakery, one cupcake is $3-4 dollars. My bill was a bargain $1.99 for two! Now I just have to restrain myself from visiting the bakery every time I shop at Schnucks :-)
(Day 6 of 30-Day Shred: DVD player wouldn't start with the DVD stuck inside. Moved my gear upstairs and used Roku to access my Amazon videos. Gotta love technology!)
I decided to ask if I could get just two cupcakes. Turned out I could and they would be made to order! I chose the cake and icing flavors, and the sprinkles. At a free-standing bakery, one cupcake is $3-4 dollars. My bill was a bargain $1.99 for two! Now I just have to restrain myself from visiting the bakery every time I shop at Schnucks :-)
(Day 6 of 30-Day Shred: DVD player wouldn't start with the DVD stuck inside. Moved my gear upstairs and used Roku to access my Amazon videos. Gotta love technology!)
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Weekends Are Too Short
I would love to have a full weekend for errands and fun. Instead, I really only have Saturday. Sundays are eaten up with going to mass and visiting mom, after which Elliott usually comes to grandma's for one-on-one time.
So today, like most Saturdays, I spent several hours in the morning working on mom's finances and the company books. Normally I would then shower and run errands. But today I did squeeze in my workout first.
Fortunately I didn't have too many errands. That gave me a short breather before getting ready for an evening out. Once or twice a year, one of our suppliers takes us to dinner and the Repertory Theatre. They're a nice couple and we always have good conversations. Nevertheless, I'd much rather be spending the evening in, watching a movie or two. Weekends are meant for recharging and mine are too short.
(Day 5 of 30-Day Shred: Still HATE jumping jacks!)
So today, like most Saturdays, I spent several hours in the morning working on mom's finances and the company books. Normally I would then shower and run errands. But today I did squeeze in my workout first.
Fortunately I didn't have too many errands. That gave me a short breather before getting ready for an evening out. Once or twice a year, one of our suppliers takes us to dinner and the Repertory Theatre. They're a nice couple and we always have good conversations. Nevertheless, I'd much rather be spending the evening in, watching a movie or two. Weekends are meant for recharging and mine are too short.
(Day 5 of 30-Day Shred: Still HATE jumping jacks!)
Friday, January 28, 2011
Different World
Today is Friday so I watched both boys. I can't imagine it ever being easy. When Jonah's awake, he's fussing about not being allowed to play with Elliott's toys. When Jonah's napping, it seems I'm constantly reminding Elliott not to be too loud.
Truthfully, however, Elliott did very well today. I gave him the seven Lego skeletons I snagged on Ebay and he was thrilled. Most of the day he spent setting up scenes while watching Lego videos on YouTube using my iPad.
He even let me workout this morning. I told him it would only be one episode of The Backyardigans. So while Elliott watched his show on the portable DVD player, I used the one attached to the television.
What a different world Elliott lives in. He almost refuses to believe there once was no internet. And he finds it difficult to imagine a time when such things as Tivo, cell phones, and computers didn't exist. Honestly, I have a hard time imagining those days myself!
(Day 4 of 30-Day Shred: Barely any soreness; cardio remains the most difficult part.)
Truthfully, however, Elliott did very well today. I gave him the seven Lego skeletons I snagged on Ebay and he was thrilled. Most of the day he spent setting up scenes while watching Lego videos on YouTube using my iPad.
He even let me workout this morning. I told him it would only be one episode of The Backyardigans. So while Elliott watched his show on the portable DVD player, I used the one attached to the television.
What a different world Elliott lives in. He almost refuses to believe there once was no internet. And he finds it difficult to imagine a time when such things as Tivo, cell phones, and computers didn't exist. Honestly, I have a hard time imagining those days myself!
(Day 4 of 30-Day Shred: Barely any soreness; cardio remains the most difficult part.)
Thursday, January 27, 2011
No Longer A Night Person
I love not feeling like a slug! I've only been doing the 30-Day Shred for three days, but feel so much better. No matter how much sitting or eating I do the rest of the day, I feel OK knowing I had a good workout in the morning.
Many moons ago I was a night person. I loved sleeping until 9:00 A.M. and not going to bed until midnight or 1:00 A.M. I think I became a true morning person when I started watching Elliott. Before then, I may have had to get up early but I hated it.
Now I like getting up around 7:00 A.M. and I'm usually in bed by 10:00 P.M. As that change occurred, I found it more and more difficult to workout in the evenings. It's now best for me to workout before noon. Knowing that simplifies things. There's no debate or putting it off. If it's going to happen, it needs to happen in the morning.
(Day 3 of 30-Day Shred: Surprisingly 50% less sore this morning and workout was slightly less strenuous.)
Many moons ago I was a night person. I loved sleeping until 9:00 A.M. and not going to bed until midnight or 1:00 A.M. I think I became a true morning person when I started watching Elliott. Before then, I may have had to get up early but I hated it.
Now I like getting up around 7:00 A.M. and I'm usually in bed by 10:00 P.M. As that change occurred, I found it more and more difficult to workout in the evenings. It's now best for me to workout before noon. Knowing that simplifies things. There's no debate or putting it off. If it's going to happen, it needs to happen in the morning.
(Day 3 of 30-Day Shred: Surprisingly 50% less sore this morning and workout was slightly less strenuous.)
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Jonah = Perpetual Motion
Thank goodness Jonah takes good naps at grandma's house. Due to cold and snow, the basement is our only play area. However, I don't think Jonah will get bored anytime soon. Between sleeping and eating he has less than two hours a day for play.
I've written before about how different Elliott and Jonah are. As a toddler Elliott was fascinated with television, especially kid shows. He would also sit and play with one toy for a long time. And there were days when he was happy with a pile of books just studying the pages. This is not Jonah.
When not sleeping, Jonah is always moving -- even when he eats! If we're not in the play area, he bee-lines to anything he shouldn't have. It's amazing how fast he moves from one "no-no" item to another! Obviously this perpetual motion is why Jonah takes two 2-3 hour naps a day.
And why I can't imagine Jonah ever sitting for hours surfing the web or playing video games. If he remains so active, it'll be interesting to see how Jonah fits in our screen-obsessed world.
(Day 2 of 30-Day Shred: Extremely sore this morning, especially in the thighs; less sore after working out.)
I've written before about how different Elliott and Jonah are. As a toddler Elliott was fascinated with television, especially kid shows. He would also sit and play with one toy for a long time. And there were days when he was happy with a pile of books just studying the pages. This is not Jonah.
When not sleeping, Jonah is always moving -- even when he eats! If we're not in the play area, he bee-lines to anything he shouldn't have. It's amazing how fast he moves from one "no-no" item to another! Obviously this perpetual motion is why Jonah takes two 2-3 hour naps a day.
And why I can't imagine Jonah ever sitting for hours surfing the web or playing video games. If he remains so active, it'll be interesting to see how Jonah fits in our screen-obsessed world.
(Day 2 of 30-Day Shred: Extremely sore this morning, especially in the thighs; less sore after working out.)
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Day One of 30-Day Shred
I've been lured into doing Jillian Michael's 30-Day Shred. It started with one message board which led to another. On both boards there are 1000s of reviews exclaiming the benefits of this program. I'm not necessarily a Jillian Michael's fan, but I am ready for something new and simple with a good success rate.
I also need a fitness plan that will work with my already tight schedule and can be done at home. The 30-Day Shred is a 28-minute workout that includes cardio and working all muscle groups. All that's needed is a DVD player, mat, and hand weights.
I have everything necessary, but quickly realized I need three-pound weights. My five-pound weights work fine when I do arm movements alone. But Jillian works legs and arms simultaneously and five pounds are too hard on my knees right now. Best of all, there is only one step I need to slightly modify due to the frozen joint in my right big toe.
This morning was day one. It was tough (hate jumping jacks!) but I'm proud I got through it. Jillian promises a 20 pound weight loss in 30 days. I only want to lose 5-8 pounds. But mainly I want to get in better shape so I can keep up with Elliott and Jonah.
I also need a fitness plan that will work with my already tight schedule and can be done at home. The 30-Day Shred is a 28-minute workout that includes cardio and working all muscle groups. All that's needed is a DVD player, mat, and hand weights.
I have everything necessary, but quickly realized I need three-pound weights. My five-pound weights work fine when I do arm movements alone. But Jillian works legs and arms simultaneously and five pounds are too hard on my knees right now. Best of all, there is only one step I need to slightly modify due to the frozen joint in my right big toe.
This morning was day one. It was tough (hate jumping jacks!) but I'm proud I got through it. Jillian promises a 20 pound weight loss in 30 days. I only want to lose 5-8 pounds. But mainly I want to get in better shape so I can keep up with Elliott and Jonah.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Jonah Is A Toddler
For the past 3-4 weeks Jonah has been taking more and more steps without holding on to anything. But, for the most part, each time he was set up in an open space and verbally encouraged. Today was different.
Emily said that over the weekend Jonah began taking 20 or more steps on his own. Today I witnessed it for myself. He now seems to prefer walking over crawling even though the latter is still quicker for him. He also no longer reacts as if each trek is a huge accomplishment. Jonah is now a toddler.
Elliott started walking at 11 months. Jonah won't be 11 months until February 13. We were warned that Jonah would develop quicker because he desperately wants to do what Elliott does. Apparently, the race is on!
(UPDATE: Rupert couldn't talk this morning. We guess he was loudly complaining all night about having no food. Nevertheless, he survived the teeth cleaning and returned home safely. More importantly, he isn't holding a grudge. Turned out the worst part of the whole ordeal was the $200 bill!)
Emily said that over the weekend Jonah began taking 20 or more steps on his own. Today I witnessed it for myself. He now seems to prefer walking over crawling even though the latter is still quicker for him. He also no longer reacts as if each trek is a huge accomplishment. Jonah is now a toddler.
Elliott started walking at 11 months. Jonah won't be 11 months until February 13. We were warned that Jonah would develop quicker because he desperately wants to do what Elliott does. Apparently, the race is on!
(UPDATE: Rupert couldn't talk this morning. We guess he was loudly complaining all night about having no food. Nevertheless, he survived the teeth cleaning and returned home safely. More importantly, he isn't holding a grudge. Turned out the worst part of the whole ordeal was the $200 bill!)
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Poor Rupert
Rupert's diet consists of approximately 3/4 cup of dry food and one tablespoon of wet food, which he gets in the morning. On a normal day, however, he rarely eats all of his food. Most mornings when I dish out the wet food it's on top of leftover dry food. Nevertheless, every morning when we open the bedroom door, Rupert greets us with a lot of meowing as if he's starving. And then within an hour of eating the wet food, the meowing starts again if I've forgotten to replace the old dry food with fresh. Rupert's clearly a particular cat set in his ways, which is why I'm stressing about tomorrow.
For Rupert's annual exam, the vet makes a house call. Everyone involved decided long ago that this was necessary. I refused to take him but was told that Rupert went wild as soon as he crossed the clinic's threshold. And even with medication, the vet couldn't touch him. So after a couple of clinic visits, we started the house calls. Although Rupert still needs a pill, at home it's a much better situation.
But when the vet visited last November, she decided it was time Rupert got his teeth cleaned. Since he'll be "knocked out" it can only be done at the clinic. So at 8:00 P.M. tonight I need to remove Rupert's food dish. Then in the morning Jim will somehow put Rupert in the carrier and get to the clinic by 7:30 A.M. We can retrieve him around 2:30 P.M.
Whenever we travel, Rupert is extremely affectionate and even a bit clingy when we return. I'm hoping that's how he'll feel tomorrow when it's all over and he's safely home.
For Rupert's annual exam, the vet makes a house call. Everyone involved decided long ago that this was necessary. I refused to take him but was told that Rupert went wild as soon as he crossed the clinic's threshold. And even with medication, the vet couldn't touch him. So after a couple of clinic visits, we started the house calls. Although Rupert still needs a pill, at home it's a much better situation.
But when the vet visited last November, she decided it was time Rupert got his teeth cleaned. Since he'll be "knocked out" it can only be done at the clinic. So at 8:00 P.M. tonight I need to remove Rupert's food dish. Then in the morning Jim will somehow put Rupert in the carrier and get to the clinic by 7:30 A.M. We can retrieve him around 2:30 P.M.
Whenever we travel, Rupert is extremely affectionate and even a bit clingy when we return. I'm hoping that's how he'll feel tomorrow when it's all over and he's safely home.
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Less Stumbling and Fumbling
Our front foundation wall is caving in. This has been going on for years and is not unusual for our area. We've known for a long time that it needs to be stopped and corrected. However, we've kept it "on the back burner" because we've had more pressing expenses (tuitions, weddings, mortgage, etc.). But honestly we've delayed for so long because clearing stuff ten feet from a foundation wall is a lot of work.
No more putting it off. The fix begins February 21 and will take three days. So, since the first of the year, we've been purging, reorganizing and temporarily relocating half of the garage and basement storage.
Actually, it's good that we waited so long. Over the last five years we've trashed and donated a lot of items we've had for years. I've never been a hoarder and have little sentimental attachment to anything except photos. But Jim has just recently been more open to getting rid of things we no longer need or use. I'm so glad he's "on board" now. Life is much easier when you're not stumbling and fumbling through excess stuff.
No more putting it off. The fix begins February 21 and will take three days. So, since the first of the year, we've been purging, reorganizing and temporarily relocating half of the garage and basement storage.
Actually, it's good that we waited so long. Over the last five years we've trashed and donated a lot of items we've had for years. I've never been a hoarder and have little sentimental attachment to anything except photos. But Jim has just recently been more open to getting rid of things we no longer need or use. I'm so glad he's "on board" now. Life is much easier when you're not stumbling and fumbling through excess stuff.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Two In A Row
Rockwood announced last night that today would be another snow day. Yes, that's two in a row! However, I'm assuming today's closing was primarily due to extremely cold temperatures.
That leaves just one available snow day for the rest of the school year with a lot of winter still remaining. And already snow showers are predicted for several days next week. If more than one snow day is needed before the season ends, the school year will be extended.
Nevertheless, I'll take extra snow days over the year ending on time. Grandma Daycare is easier in warmer weather. There are no big winter coats and hats to deal with when running errands. And there's the option of taking neighborhood walks to help fill the day.
From the family business perspective, however, the sooner the snow and cold weather ends, the better. These are lean times for pest control.
That leaves just one available snow day for the rest of the school year with a lot of winter still remaining. And already snow showers are predicted for several days next week. If more than one snow day is needed before the season ends, the school year will be extended.
Nevertheless, I'll take extra snow days over the year ending on time. Grandma Daycare is easier in warmer weather. There are no big winter coats and hats to deal with when running errands. And there's the option of taking neighborhood walks to help fill the day.
From the family business perspective, however, the sooner the snow and cold weather ends, the better. These are lean times for pest control.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Paper Crafting Makes Me Happy
As fully expected, today was a snow day. After sleeping an extra half hour, I had a quiet breakfast and then worked on the company books until 11:00 A.M. The rest of the day I spent paper crafting.
I feel so energized. I worked on Valentines and cupcake picks for Super Bowl. My Cricut was crankin'! With Emily's teacher discount at JoAnn's and their crazy sales, I got my Personal Cricut last fall for less than half the retail price. It's one of the best bargains of my life!
I feel so energized. I worked on Valentines and cupcake picks for Super Bowl. My Cricut was crankin'! With Emily's teacher discount at JoAnn's and their crazy sales, I got my Personal Cricut last fall for less than half the retail price. It's one of the best bargains of my life!
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Fun for Some
The Rockwood School District calendar allows for five snow days, which means there are still three available for this year. Hopefully we'll use one tomorrow. Nevertheless, before winter's over -- I want all five!
I'm already planning my possible day off. I want to spend the entire day paper crafting. The timing couldn't be better. One of the home-shopping channels is holding a craft day tomorrow. I seldom buy anything, but I like to watch the demos for inspiration. It would be a perfect day, but not for everyone.
I just learned that dad's cardiologist said he can no longer shovel snow. (Isn't that a big "duh" for any 80-year-old even if they haven't had heart surgery?) So he's already fretting over possibly being snowed in, even though he doesn't *have* to go anywhere. I told him it's not Minnesota. If it snows, my husband or brother will bail him out within 48 hours. It didn't help. Dad just hates the idea of being stuck at home even if it's for only one day.
In recent years I've discovered many similarities between me and my dad. We both like organization and hate clutter. We also do not procrastinate. However, we have one big difference. I love being home. Dad hates it.
I'm already planning my possible day off. I want to spend the entire day paper crafting. The timing couldn't be better. One of the home-shopping channels is holding a craft day tomorrow. I seldom buy anything, but I like to watch the demos for inspiration. It would be a perfect day, but not for everyone.
I just learned that dad's cardiologist said he can no longer shovel snow. (Isn't that a big "duh" for any 80-year-old even if they haven't had heart surgery?) So he's already fretting over possibly being snowed in, even though he doesn't *have* to go anywhere. I told him it's not Minnesota. If it snows, my husband or brother will bail him out within 48 hours. It didn't help. Dad just hates the idea of being stuck at home even if it's for only one day.
In recent years I've discovered many similarities between me and my dad. We both like organization and hate clutter. We also do not procrastinate. However, we have one big difference. I love being home. Dad hates it.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Bookkeeping Woes
I'm currently dealing with several bookkeeping problems.
First, for the past two months we haven't received a bill from the insurance company that provides our workers compensation policy. They must still have the correct address because we had no problem getting their threatening termination letter!
Next, since changing healthcare providers five months ago, our monthly payment has always shown up as an automatic withdrawal in our checking account around the seventh of the month. That is until this month. I'm now waiting for a response to the email inquiry I sent this morning.
Then, fortunately, I carefully read our new auto Proof of Insurance cards and found that the start and expire dates were the same. After a call, new cards are being mail today.
All this aggravation on top of frustrations regarding mom's finances. I'm currently in a fight with Medicaid over mom's surplus amount (amount paid to the home after expenses) which needs to be changed since her healthcare and dental premiums were increased. And then there's the seemingly impossible task of changing mom's address with Social Security.
What the heck is going on! Errrrrrrr!
First, for the past two months we haven't received a bill from the insurance company that provides our workers compensation policy. They must still have the correct address because we had no problem getting their threatening termination letter!
Next, since changing healthcare providers five months ago, our monthly payment has always shown up as an automatic withdrawal in our checking account around the seventh of the month. That is until this month. I'm now waiting for a response to the email inquiry I sent this morning.
Then, fortunately, I carefully read our new auto Proof of Insurance cards and found that the start and expire dates were the same. After a call, new cards are being mail today.
All this aggravation on top of frustrations regarding mom's finances. I'm currently in a fight with Medicaid over mom's surplus amount (amount paid to the home after expenses) which needs to be changed since her healthcare and dental premiums were increased. And then there's the seemingly impossible task of changing mom's address with Social Security.
What the heck is going on! Errrrrrrr!
Monday, January 17, 2011
Ninjago Invasion
The invasion continued with my latest Harry Potter Lego order. It included a free Ninjago minifigure keychain and a flyer about the series premiere on Cartoon Network. Two episodes aired this morning. And, even though I was home alone, I watched because I knew Elliott would. I have to admit it's a cute story line and I see the appeal. It wasn't long before Elliott called with a new birthday wish list.
So, on my day off, I watched cartoons, placed online orders with Amazon and Lego, and picked up several Ninjago items at Target. I'm clearly a grandma.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Budding Archaeologist?
Elliott loves skeletons. Looking back, we realize he's liked them for a long time. For the past two Halloweens Elliott's always picked out skeletons when we shopped for decorations. But the big reveal was yesterday.
We were talking about whether or not Jonah would like play school when he's old enough, which is 30 months. Elliott remembered how he often cried. But he liked when I picked him up and sometimes had a surprise waiting in the car. His favorite was Rheneas, which is a Thomas the Engine vehicle. For years Elliott was a huge train fan and especially liked Thomas, so that wasn't a big surprise. However, yesterday we learned he liked Rheneas because it came with a flat car carrying a dinosaur--SKELETON!
No doubt Elliott is gifted. He has the brain power to succeed in his pick of a variety of occupations. But, until yesterday, I never thought archaeologist might be one of them.
We were talking about whether or not Jonah would like play school when he's old enough, which is 30 months. Elliott remembered how he often cried. But he liked when I picked him up and sometimes had a surprise waiting in the car. His favorite was Rheneas, which is a Thomas the Engine vehicle. For years Elliott was a huge train fan and especially liked Thomas, so that wasn't a big surprise. However, yesterday we learned he liked Rheneas because it came with a flat car carrying a dinosaur--SKELETON!
No doubt Elliott is gifted. He has the brain power to succeed in his pick of a variety of occupations. But, until yesterday, I never thought archaeologist might be one of them.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Winter Surprise
Today after breakfast and again after lunch, papa and Elliott explored the woods in our backyard. It's extremely small, but just big enough for a soon-to-be five-year-old. It was a great new experience for Elliott, walking through woods when there's snow on the ground. They found tracks and animal habitats.
So Elliott learned somethings and had a memorable experience with his Papa Jim. (Because that boy never forgets anything!) Just goes to show one never knows what a seemingly average winter day can bring.
So Elliott learned somethings and had a memorable experience with his Papa Jim. (Because that boy never forgets anything!) Just goes to show one never knows what a seemingly average winter day can bring.
Friday, January 14, 2011
Another Rough Day
Today was another rough day. Jonah and Elliott together are exhausting.
Alone, Elliott is a lot of fun. We can now enjoy many activities together such as playing Legos and doing craft projects. Even Jonah is typically OK alone. Unlike Elliott at the same age, Jonah is usually able to entertain himself with toys while I watch TV or surf the internet.
But together, the only time I get any peace is when Jonah is napping. That's because Elliott just cannot leave Jonah alone. It drives me crazy! I truly believe Elliott loves Jonah, but any hugging or kissing inevitably ends badly. Thank goodness Jonah takes good naps.
Tonight Elliott is spending the night. We're going to watch Harry Potter and eat popcorn. In the morning I'll make pancakes. And if we get more snow, papa and Elliott will build a snowman.
I find kids much more fun once they can walk and talk. Babies are a lot of work!
Alone, Elliott is a lot of fun. We can now enjoy many activities together such as playing Legos and doing craft projects. Even Jonah is typically OK alone. Unlike Elliott at the same age, Jonah is usually able to entertain himself with toys while I watch TV or surf the internet.
But together, the only time I get any peace is when Jonah is napping. That's because Elliott just cannot leave Jonah alone. It drives me crazy! I truly believe Elliott loves Jonah, but any hugging or kissing inevitably ends badly. Thank goodness Jonah takes good naps.
Tonight Elliott is spending the night. We're going to watch Harry Potter and eat popcorn. In the morning I'll make pancakes. And if we get more snow, papa and Elliott will build a snowman.
I find kids much more fun once they can walk and talk. Babies are a lot of work!
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Crabby Jonah
Jonah and I have a good schedule. He sleeps 1-2 hours and then eats and plays 1-2 hours. That pattern continues until Emily picks him up around 4:00 P.M.
Half of the finished area of our basement is a play zone. It's child-proof and full of age-appropriate toys. There's also a television and DVD player. So, when Jonah's not sleeping, we're usually happily hanging out downstairs.
But then there's the occasional off day. Today was one of those days. Jonah didn't want to play with toys, refused solids, and did a lot of crabbing. Fortunately he did take a couple of naps. I understand that he's getting over a sinus infection but, nevertheless, I have little patience for crabby kids. Hopefully tomorrow will be a better day.
Half of the finished area of our basement is a play zone. It's child-proof and full of age-appropriate toys. There's also a television and DVD player. So, when Jonah's not sleeping, we're usually happily hanging out downstairs.
But then there's the occasional off day. Today was one of those days. Jonah didn't want to play with toys, refused solids, and did a lot of crabbing. Fortunately he did take a couple of naps. I understand that he's getting over a sinus infection but, nevertheless, I have little patience for crabby kids. Hopefully tomorrow will be a better day.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Children Grow Like Weeds
Tonight Jim and I will watch Elliott and Jonah so Mike and Emily can go to the kindergarten meeting. Elliott will be five years old next month and in kindergarten next year.
I've been through the experience of children growing in front of me, but it's different with grandchildren. This time around I'm much more aware of how quickly humans grow and mature. I think it's because I'm less distracted. While raising our own children, we struggled to pay bills, stressed about keeping our family happy and healthy, and were anxious about the future. Although all those concerns still exist, we are now more realistic about them. We've learned not to fret and obsess, which leaves more time for observing and enjoying.
Nevertheless, milestones still seem to come too quickly. And children still seem to grow like weeds.
I've been through the experience of children growing in front of me, but it's different with grandchildren. This time around I'm much more aware of how quickly humans grow and mature. I think it's because I'm less distracted. While raising our own children, we struggled to pay bills, stressed about keeping our family happy and healthy, and were anxious about the future. Although all those concerns still exist, we are now more realistic about them. We've learned not to fret and obsess, which leaves more time for observing and enjoying.
Nevertheless, milestones still seem to come too quickly. And children still seem to grow like weeds.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Snow Day!
I woke at 6:50 A.M. as usual, checked the Rockwood School District website, and went back to bed. So my snow day began with an extra hour of sleep -- heavenly!
I spent the day cleaning the basement play area and completing my Lego castle. I even did a mini workout. All the while watching several Gilmore Girls episodes. That series still remains one of my all time favorites. I love the small town setting with its quirky characters and the witty dialogue. I've probably seen every episode at least five times and still enjoy every one.
I spent the day cleaning the basement play area and completing my Lego castle. I even did a mini workout. All the while watching several Gilmore Girls episodes. That series still remains one of my all time favorites. I love the small town setting with its quirky characters and the witty dialogue. I've probably seen every episode at least five times and still enjoy every one.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Please Don't Disappoint Me
All the "experts" are predicting 4-6 inches of snow, starting tonight. In addition, temperatures are expected to be in the single-digits. So, for tomorrow, all signs are pointing toward -- SNOW DAY!
It's so great that, once again, I can look forward to snow days. Of course I loved them as a kid and even as a teenager. But once I joined the work force snow days no longer brought joy. Instead they caused extreme anxiety and stress.
Today I still work, but all my jobs I do from the comfort of my home. And Grandma Daycare is always closed on snow days. So snow days again bring the joy of unexpected free time. I know the "experts" can be wrong but. . .
Snow day! Snow day! Snow day!
It's so great that, once again, I can look forward to snow days. Of course I loved them as a kid and even as a teenager. But once I joined the work force snow days no longer brought joy. Instead they caused extreme anxiety and stress.
Today I still work, but all my jobs I do from the comfort of my home. And Grandma Daycare is always closed on snow days. So snow days again bring the joy of unexpected free time. I know the "experts" can be wrong but. . .
Snow day! Snow day! Snow day!
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Golden Bricks
After visiting mom, Elliott came over to play Legos. We now have a conference table set up downstairs to hold all the Harry Potter sets I'm building. Currently I'm working on the newest castle.
My next set will be Diagon Alley which was released January 1. It's the largest Harry Potter set ever made and includes three buildings, numerous minifigures, and a nice assortment of accessories. Since the final movie in the series premieres this summer, I'm afraid Diagon Alley may be the last "new" HP Lego set.
I could kick myself for not buying all the sets offered with each movie release. Some of my older sets are now being sold on Ebay and Amazon for several hundred dollars more than I paid. And it doesn't seem to matter if they're not in unopened boxes! In retrospect, I clearly should have invested in Legos instead of stock.
My next set will be Diagon Alley which was released January 1. It's the largest Harry Potter set ever made and includes three buildings, numerous minifigures, and a nice assortment of accessories. Since the final movie in the series premieres this summer, I'm afraid Diagon Alley may be the last "new" HP Lego set.I could kick myself for not buying all the sets offered with each movie release. Some of my older sets are now being sold on Ebay and Amazon for several hundred dollars more than I paid. And it doesn't seem to matter if they're not in unopened boxes! In retrospect, I clearly should have invested in Legos instead of stock.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Baby It's Cold Outside!
After vacuuming, steam-cleaning the kitchen floor, changing the sheets, and doing several loads of wash, I left the house planning to drive through two banks before meeting Emily for lunch and shopping. Good grief! I was not prepared for 19 degrees. I was only wearing a long-sleeve t-shirt, down vest, and scarf. Needless to say, after the bank runs I returned home to add a sweater to my layers.
One of the few unnecessary outings that'll get me out of the house when it's this cold is a trip to the local JoAnn store. As a teacher Emily always gets 10% off her entire purchase. But today teachers got 20% off. Since I usually only purchase sale or clearance items to begin with, getting an additional 20% off is outstanding. Plus today we got $10 gift cards for every $50 we spent. I'm sure someone has worked this all out. But I have to wonder -- how in the heck do they make any money!
One of the few unnecessary outings that'll get me out of the house when it's this cold is a trip to the local JoAnn store. As a teacher Emily always gets 10% off her entire purchase. But today teachers got 20% off. Since I usually only purchase sale or clearance items to begin with, getting an additional 20% off is outstanding. Plus today we got $10 gift cards for every $50 we spent. I'm sure someone has worked this all out. But I have to wonder -- how in the heck do they make any money!
Friday, January 7, 2011
Good Sleeper
Jonah and Elliott are extremely different in many ways. One of which is how they slept during their first 10 months of life.
As a baby, Elliott had severe colic 24/7 for nearly six months. He had a terrible time sleeping. Thank goodness for vacuum cleaners! Their sound was the only thing that eventually lulled him to sleep. But, even then, it was after a lot of screaming. When the colic finally ended, we needed the sleep clinic's help to establish a healthy sleep pattern for Elliott.
No help was needed for Jonah. Things were a little rough in the beginning, but it was mainly because we couldn't recognize his clear sleep signals. And that was mainly because we couldn't believe he needed 11-12 hours sleep at night and could only be up 60-90 minutes between naps!
Jonah will be 10 months on January 13 and he is just now transitioning from three to two naps. Of course he occasionally has off days. But today, as is more typical, my good sleeper took two two-hour naps. That gave me four uninterrupted hours with Elliott. It was a happy day at Grandma Daycare :-)
As a baby, Elliott had severe colic 24/7 for nearly six months. He had a terrible time sleeping. Thank goodness for vacuum cleaners! Their sound was the only thing that eventually lulled him to sleep. But, even then, it was after a lot of screaming. When the colic finally ended, we needed the sleep clinic's help to establish a healthy sleep pattern for Elliott.
No help was needed for Jonah. Things were a little rough in the beginning, but it was mainly because we couldn't recognize his clear sleep signals. And that was mainly because we couldn't believe he needed 11-12 hours sleep at night and could only be up 60-90 minutes between naps!
Jonah will be 10 months on January 13 and he is just now transitioning from three to two naps. Of course he occasionally has off days. But today, as is more typical, my good sleeper took two two-hour naps. That gave me four uninterrupted hours with Elliott. It was a happy day at Grandma Daycare :-)
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Mac App Store
I've gone from overwhelmed to depressed. It's just impossible for me to keep up with new technology.
I just got an iPad last October. Very slowly I'm adding apps, trying to be extremely selective. Most of them were free. But, nevertheless, facing so many icons every time I "unlock" my iPad makes me anxious. Truth is, no matter how selective I try to be, I've downloaded several apps that I've never even opened. My iPad's becoming almost as frustrating as my clothes closet. Both are cluttered with unused items.
And now there's a Mac App Store. More options. More to learn. I'm sure many people are extremely excited about the release. But it has pushed me into a depression. However I know I'll shake it in a day or two. I just need to keep reminding myself that I'm way ahead of a lot of people my age.
I just got an iPad last October. Very slowly I'm adding apps, trying to be extremely selective. Most of them were free. But, nevertheless, facing so many icons every time I "unlock" my iPad makes me anxious. Truth is, no matter how selective I try to be, I've downloaded several apps that I've never even opened. My iPad's becoming almost as frustrating as my clothes closet. Both are cluttered with unused items.
And now there's a Mac App Store. More options. More to learn. I'm sure many people are extremely excited about the release. But it has pushed me into a depression. However I know I'll shake it in a day or two. I just need to keep reminding myself that I'm way ahead of a lot of people my age.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
38 Years of Marriage
Today we celebrated our wedding anniversary. We were 21 years old when we walked down the aisle 38 years ago. We are not the same people. Our wants, needs, and goals have changed many times. Yet we have somehow weathered the changes and are happier together than apart.
I believe a long marriage requires patience, give and take, and a lot of luck. I'm grateful for ours and pray for many more years together in good health.
I believe a long marriage requires patience, give and take, and a lot of luck. I'm grateful for ours and pray for many more years together in good health.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Taking Care of Seniors
A few months ago, a lawyer finalized all of dad's legal papers such as his will and Financial and Healthcare Durable Power of Attorney documents. Dad left the office with the originals in a large envelope and copies in a three-ring binder, which he immediately gave to me. After realizing what I had, I put the originals in our safe. I then returned the binder to dad, explaining that it contained copies should he ever want to review them.
Dad called today, insisting he had originals in a three-ring binder. So I explained, again, exactly what he had and reassured him that I had the originals. I've lost track of how many times I've explained this. Between managing mom's finances and nursing home care and dealing with dad regarding legal and healthcare matters, I often just want to scream!
However, it also has me wondering who will take care of me and Jim when the time comes. It appears it won't be our children. Daniel lives in South Korea. And Emily has said she will not be able to handle it. So for now I can only continue praying that I'll have my wits about me until the end.
Dad called today, insisting he had originals in a three-ring binder. So I explained, again, exactly what he had and reassured him that I had the originals. I've lost track of how many times I've explained this. Between managing mom's finances and nursing home care and dealing with dad regarding legal and healthcare matters, I often just want to scream!
However, it also has me wondering who will take care of me and Jim when the time comes. It appears it won't be our children. Daniel lives in South Korea. And Emily has said she will not be able to handle it. So for now I can only continue praying that I'll have my wits about me until the end.
Monday, January 3, 2011
Feline Babysitter
Emily and Elliott went back to school today. That means the end of winter break for Grandma Daycare also. Jonah arrived around 7:30 A.M. and went down for his morning nap at 8:30 A.M. I figured I had at least an hour, so I started setting up the company's 2011 files.
We live in a ranch house. The bedrooms are on one end; my office is on the other end. Therefore, if I'm working in the office I can't hear Jonah unless he's really loud. So, after an hour, I'll walk down the hall every 20-30 minutes listening for baby sounds, although it's probably not necessary.
During the day Rupert sleeps on our bed in the room across the hall from Jonah's. As soon as he hears Jonah, he comes and tells me with soft "meows." This has happened several times. Odds are he's just annoyed to have his sleep disturbed, but I like to think he's helping me babysit.
We live in a ranch house. The bedrooms are on one end; my office is on the other end. Therefore, if I'm working in the office I can't hear Jonah unless he's really loud. So, after an hour, I'll walk down the hall every 20-30 minutes listening for baby sounds, although it's probably not necessary.
During the day Rupert sleeps on our bed in the room across the hall from Jonah's. As soon as he hears Jonah, he comes and tells me with soft "meows." This has happened several times. Odds are he's just annoyed to have his sleep disturbed, but I like to think he's helping me babysit.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Best Use for iPad So Far
Jim, dad, and I visited mom today. Dad and mom's wedding anniversary is this Friday. Since I won't be visiting again until next Sunday, we celebrated their 61 years together today. I made a card with pictures of their three great-grandchildren, and brought bite-size cheesecakes for everyone. The highlight of today's visit, however, was the viewing of several videos using my iPad.
I discovered last week that Bethesda has WiFi. Now I can share videos of the boys with mom and dad, and it will give us something to do during our visits. Today we watched videos from Christmas Eve and Day. Hearing Jonah laughing, all the staff members gathered round. It was probably the brightest spot in their work day, which I'm glad to have provided. All the people who work in Bethesda's demetia wing are angels in my book.
I got the iPad as a birthday gift back in October. Little by little I'm finding myself using it more and more. But today's use is the best I've found so far.
I discovered last week that Bethesda has WiFi. Now I can share videos of the boys with mom and dad, and it will give us something to do during our visits. Today we watched videos from Christmas Eve and Day. Hearing Jonah laughing, all the staff members gathered round. It was probably the brightest spot in their work day, which I'm glad to have provided. All the people who work in Bethesda's demetia wing are angels in my book.
I got the iPad as a birthday gift back in October. Little by little I'm finding myself using it more and more. But today's use is the best I've found so far.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
The (Near) Perfect Storm
Last night we lost cable and internet access around 8:00 P.M. That's nearly a perfect storm at our house. Fortunately we still had electric and a working DVD player. So while Jim snoozed on the couch, I watched a Harry Potter movie. When it ended around 9:30 P.M. I decided to call it a night.
So I woke well rested on the first day of 2011. I made a nice brunch of Panettone french toast, mixed berries, and bacon. Then I remembered I could download the company's December bank statement. That allowed me to complete all 2010 tax documents today, beating last year's reconciliation date by three days! Yes, that's the type of thing that puts a smile on my face :-)
So I woke well rested on the first day of 2011. I made a nice brunch of Panettone french toast, mixed berries, and bacon. Then I remembered I could download the company's December bank statement. That allowed me to complete all 2010 tax documents today, beating last year's reconciliation date by three days! Yes, that's the type of thing that puts a smile on my face :-)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)