Ok, over this weekend I shall be posting old and new recipes on this site. Currently, there's just a welcome post on there now. Check back Monday for some real stuff. I hope!
www.krystenskitchen.blogspot.com
Flowers-Fridays-
My hubby brought me flowers yesterday! Now, he gets me flowers for holidays and birthdays, but I mentioned a time or two that he never seems to get them "just because". But, I haven't said this in awhile. And yesterday he came home at 9:30, yes a.m. because his clients were all sick. (He did work from 5:30-9am in case you're wondering, nice huh?--And yes those would be the same clients who get him sick constantly. Why would you go work out at a gym sick???!!) So, anyways he came home with a beautiful bouquet of huge pink gerbera daisies, purple & yellow irises and some purple-y berry & leaf stuff (I don't know what it is). Sweet eh? Now, I really wish I had my camera batteries.
Thought leftover from Thursday:
*working in Early Intervention with all the speech therapists who use sign with their kids, I took a basic sign class too a few years ago, and have been using them with Kian since about 2 months old really. Wondering if anyone else does? I know it's a big thing lately and sometimes I reject things because they are trendy. I loved the class and would love to take more if time and money permitted such things, it was really fun. He knows what a few signs mean and I have seen attempts to sign 'milk' sometimes. It'd just be nice for him to tell me he wants a drink or to eat (later on) when he can't get the words out yet.
*Am I wrong to get annoyed that people try to 'name' or give nicknames to Kian's pacifier? My thought is that by the time he can say it and ask for it, it's going to be gone, so let's not even start. Of course that opens up a whole other can of worms since the boy won't sleep without it lately (I noticed when teething he really wants it more) which is going to make my job of getting rid of it really hard. But, for now I shall not think of the harsh cold turkey removal or the gradual decrease pacifier weaning...ugh!
Anyway-here's to Fridays and Flowers and have a happy weekend!
Thought leftover from Thursday:
*working in Early Intervention with all the speech therapists who use sign with their kids, I took a basic sign class too a few years ago, and have been using them with Kian since about 2 months old really. Wondering if anyone else does? I know it's a big thing lately and sometimes I reject things because they are trendy. I loved the class and would love to take more if time and money permitted such things, it was really fun. He knows what a few signs mean and I have seen attempts to sign 'milk' sometimes. It'd just be nice for him to tell me he wants a drink or to eat (later on) when he can't get the words out yet.
*Am I wrong to get annoyed that people try to 'name' or give nicknames to Kian's pacifier? My thought is that by the time he can say it and ask for it, it's going to be gone, so let's not even start. Of course that opens up a whole other can of worms since the boy won't sleep without it lately (I noticed when teething he really wants it more) which is going to make my job of getting rid of it really hard. But, for now I shall not think of the harsh cold turkey removal or the gradual decrease pacifier weaning...ugh!
Anyway-here's to Fridays and Flowers and have a happy weekend!
Thoughts on a Thursday
I've had a lot on my mind lately. Life's going pretty fast. Sorting some things out, taking others as they come. Last night when I couldn't get to sleep right away I had an entire list of Thursday thoughts, but of course when I finally have a second they are no where in sight. But, some things:
*Kian almost has got the pincer grasp down. Poor boy, he tries so hard, you can see him concentrating. If he drops his food he either sighs or slaps his tray. Great, he'll be competitive like his father.
*I'm considering starting another blog for just my recipes. More for myself to remember how I made something I suppose. I really don't use "real" recipes often at all.
*I would like a magic wand to freeze time sometimes.
*Sometimes I feel my blog is like a junior high girl-chatty, annoying and not really saying much. I feel stupid that I don't always have wonderful, breath-taking, in-depth, awe-inspiring words flowing out. But, then sometimes I thank God that is how it is.
*And then there's times I just gotta wonder why, why things happen at certain stages in life, suddenly and without much warning, that come along and change the course of everything you knew and the entire future too. I'm just not ready for that.
*Sometimes I like to nibble on my baby. Tickle his toes. Whisper in his ears. Munch on his ribs. Kiss his hands. Then I want another one.
*I kind of feel like I'm on one of those cartoons where the guy is walking across an old wood/rope bridge and every step he takes, the previous wood slat falls out and crashes into the gorge below. Yeah, that's me right now.
*I absolutely love my fireplace. And my cats. Especially warm, fuzzy cats sleeping next to the fireplace. But, not that my child can now crawl towards and onto the hearth. Oh, but when it's 5 degrees (without the windchill) it's the best.
*Speaking of cats: some night I am going to bed with my camera so I can wake up and capture them. Some point after I fall asleep (they always wait until I fall asleep) they sneak in and one sleeps halfway on my left foot and the other sleeps halfway on my right. Usually Ace is on the left because Rocky likes to sleep between both Kevin and I. Problem is, as mothers know, if there's a small, breathing, warm body in bed with you, you don't move, even in deep sleep. I spend most of the night is some weird, crooked position until I wake up and realize there's cats on my feet and because they are just cats I can move them. But, it can be sore on my neck, back and knees!
*Of course when I wanted to take pictures of the snow, neither of my cameras have batteries. I absent-mindedly bought only ONE lithium Ion battery for my Nikon (film) camera, and the Wii ate the last 2 AA batteries that the digital needs. Yes, I could take them from the Wii, but I am going shopping tomorrow, so I know the snow will still be there.
Time to let my overflowing brain decompress in front of the tv for awhile.
*Kian almost has got the pincer grasp down. Poor boy, he tries so hard, you can see him concentrating. If he drops his food he either sighs or slaps his tray. Great, he'll be competitive like his father.
*I'm considering starting another blog for just my recipes. More for myself to remember how I made something I suppose. I really don't use "real" recipes often at all.
*I would like a magic wand to freeze time sometimes.
*Sometimes I feel my blog is like a junior high girl-chatty, annoying and not really saying much. I feel stupid that I don't always have wonderful, breath-taking, in-depth, awe-inspiring words flowing out. But, then sometimes I thank God that is how it is.
*And then there's times I just gotta wonder why, why things happen at certain stages in life, suddenly and without much warning, that come along and change the course of everything you knew and the entire future too. I'm just not ready for that.
*Sometimes I like to nibble on my baby. Tickle his toes. Whisper in his ears. Munch on his ribs. Kiss his hands. Then I want another one.
*I kind of feel like I'm on one of those cartoons where the guy is walking across an old wood/rope bridge and every step he takes, the previous wood slat falls out and crashes into the gorge below. Yeah, that's me right now.
*I absolutely love my fireplace. And my cats. Especially warm, fuzzy cats sleeping next to the fireplace. But, not that my child can now crawl towards and onto the hearth. Oh, but when it's 5 degrees (without the windchill) it's the best.
*Speaking of cats: some night I am going to bed with my camera so I can wake up and capture them. Some point after I fall asleep (they always wait until I fall asleep) they sneak in and one sleeps halfway on my left foot and the other sleeps halfway on my right. Usually Ace is on the left because Rocky likes to sleep between both Kevin and I. Problem is, as mothers know, if there's a small, breathing, warm body in bed with you, you don't move, even in deep sleep. I spend most of the night is some weird, crooked position until I wake up and realize there's cats on my feet and because they are just cats I can move them. But, it can be sore on my neck, back and knees!
*Of course when I wanted to take pictures of the snow, neither of my cameras have batteries. I absent-mindedly bought only ONE lithium Ion battery for my Nikon (film) camera, and the Wii ate the last 2 AA batteries that the digital needs. Yes, I could take them from the Wii, but I am going shopping tomorrow, so I know the snow will still be there.
Time to let my overflowing brain decompress in front of the tv for awhile.
Wordless Wednesday & a contest!
I've decided to participate in Rachel's Wordless Wednesday contest. 
Mostly because I just like posting pictures! I had too many to pick out, but this one is my favorite of my cranky boy. Please note I do not have a special, cool camera!
I call it "Don't take my picture!"
Mostly because I just like posting pictures! I had too many to pick out, but this one is my favorite of my cranky boy. Please note I do not have a special, cool camera!
I call it "Don't take my picture!"
Change
I really dislike change. I guess I am not highly adaptable. Unless I precipitate that change? I like things they way they are, the way they were. But, that can't always be. I want to preserve my past and keep it that way forever. Changes in the present somehow jade the past and make you question everything. Time should just stop sometimes to keep those feelings alive and real. I think I'm in for some major life changes and I am not liking it. These changes will affect a lot of people and things I always knew won't be so and will never be so for Kian. He will never know how it was. That is what saddens me the most I think. That, and second guessing the truth and authenticity of an entire lifetime of events and people.
Perhaps I am an idealist. When I was younger and asked for something or to do something the answer was usually "we'll see" at first. To me, that meant "oh yes, definitely". Let's just say I was disappointed on occasion. I can also be a realist, but sometimes just don't want to be. I like truth and honesty and loyalty and such, but sometimes I don't want to hear and know the truth either. Oh to be a child and stick my fingers in my ears, clench my eyes tight shut, stick out my tongue and just go "lalalalalalalalala" until it's over...
Kevin and I are fine. It's not that.
Perhaps I am an idealist. When I was younger and asked for something or to do something the answer was usually "we'll see" at first. To me, that meant "oh yes, definitely". Let's just say I was disappointed on occasion. I can also be a realist, but sometimes just don't want to be. I like truth and honesty and loyalty and such, but sometimes I don't want to hear and know the truth either. Oh to be a child and stick my fingers in my ears, clench my eyes tight shut, stick out my tongue and just go "lalalalalalalalala" until it's over...
Kevin and I are fine. It's not that.
Stuck
Sometimes I just feel stuck. Unable to move. Unable to do anything. Anything.
Words turn into whispers in the wind. Movement slows as though with heavy, laden limbs.
The world swirls around at a frightening pace. Unaware of troubles that brew below.
Cheery faces oblivious to despair. Life swallowing them faster and faster.
How is one world stuck inside another that continues to go on and on? To go on and not have an inkling of the stagnant pool inside it?
Scratching and clawing, yelling and screaming. Sometimes a smiling face nods in my direction.
The path behind me, crumbling with each step I take. Gingerly stepping forward onto slippery, unknown surfaces, with feeble attempts to refrain from sliding.
Stuck.
Words turn into whispers in the wind. Movement slows as though with heavy, laden limbs.
The world swirls around at a frightening pace. Unaware of troubles that brew below.
Cheery faces oblivious to despair. Life swallowing them faster and faster.
How is one world stuck inside another that continues to go on and on? To go on and not have an inkling of the stagnant pool inside it?
Scratching and clawing, yelling and screaming. Sometimes a smiling face nods in my direction.
The path behind me, crumbling with each step I take. Gingerly stepping forward onto slippery, unknown surfaces, with feeble attempts to refrain from sliding.
Stuck.
8 Months!
I'll try not to brag too much, but I will anyways. Kian is crawling, waving, kissing, pulling to stand occasionally, making tons of sounds, the typical stuff. He is trying to sign milk now, he has known what the sign means for a long time. (trust me, I make the sign and he gets excited)He also likes to turn the pages of board books when I read them to him. I know you're thinking, he can't. But if the page is up a little he grabs it and turns it. Obviously he doesn't have the fine motor skills to pick it up and turn it himself yet.
He's also been clingy lately, actually grabbing on to me when one of Kevin's friends tried to see him.
My mom and I did the ASQ on him and he was already doing everything but one item required on the test.
He also has been eating like crazy and really prefers table foods as opposed to nursing all the time, which is fine.
I don't think he's gained much weight lately, but he has grown longer, as proven by his shortened pants that I've had to retire to storage. We don't have an appt with the pediatrician until next month so it will be interesting to see where he's at then.
Fear Less Fridays
Ok I have to be honest here. I don't like leaving my child, I miss him when I'm not with him. But, it's possible, probable I will need to soon to get a part-time job or something. Here's the thing, I would prefer to leave him in a center I think, because I can "tell" them what to do, what to feed my child, feel that there are sufficient regulations, monitorings, etc. Though it might seem ideal to have relatives watch them, and there are some I am more comfortable with than others. My "fear" or irrational paranoia annoyance, is that they will just do what they feel like with my child.
Now, relatives offer all the time for 'free babysitting' and encourage me to go out, or Kevin to go out, or both of us, or just tell us to leave Kian with other people so he'll 'get used to it'. First, I like being with my baby so I don't feel the need to leave him just so he can 'get used to it'. Second, I really am paranoid about what would happen if I did leave my child because there aren't rules in place like at a daycare center.
For example, I am into nutritious eating (I'm not perfect, but am really refining our meals and what we eat/have in the house) and since I have made Kian's food, or made sure he's had mostly organic or "non-crap added" food as i like to call it, this is an area of concern. Some 'helpful' people like to either tell me to just give him this or that, or it won't hurt him, or worse, "ask" Kian if he wants this junk. Ugh. I fear that if I leave my child in these places he will be fed things I don't want him fed. And it's more than just an irrational fear as these older generations had very VERY different ideas on baby feeding. Like, feeding cereal at 2-3 weeks, weaning to milk at 7 months and chocolate milk at that, to encourage weaning. Oy vey! So, am I really being paranoid? It's like the older generation needs a crash course in "re-parenting" or baby care.
Another thing is that they think it's cute he 'watches' tv. Thankfully he really doesn't, (although he likes the spinning wheel of fortune) and I absolutely do not want him to watch tv! But, they think he should or it's no big deal. I know this is, again, different times, different rules, etc. But, unless I stand there and lecture about everything that's changed in the world in the last 25 years and give examples of studies and pediatric research...? What do I do?
It probably will offend people if I choose a center or home daycare when/if I need to, but I know I need to do what will make me comfortable leaving my child. I also talked with Kevin how I'd like to find a teenage girl in this new church we started attending who we could rely on for a few years and really get to know our family, that would be most beneficial. Plus, let's not just forget the fact he's still nursing and he's only 8 months old, so extended time away from me is just not necessary. Am I really crazy?
Now, relatives offer all the time for 'free babysitting' and encourage me to go out, or Kevin to go out, or both of us, or just tell us to leave Kian with other people so he'll 'get used to it'. First, I like being with my baby so I don't feel the need to leave him just so he can 'get used to it'. Second, I really am paranoid about what would happen if I did leave my child because there aren't rules in place like at a daycare center.
For example, I am into nutritious eating (I'm not perfect, but am really refining our meals and what we eat/have in the house) and since I have made Kian's food, or made sure he's had mostly organic or "non-crap added" food as i like to call it, this is an area of concern. Some 'helpful' people like to either tell me to just give him this or that, or it won't hurt him, or worse, "ask" Kian if he wants this junk. Ugh. I fear that if I leave my child in these places he will be fed things I don't want him fed. And it's more than just an irrational fear as these older generations had very VERY different ideas on baby feeding. Like, feeding cereal at 2-3 weeks, weaning to milk at 7 months and chocolate milk at that, to encourage weaning. Oy vey! So, am I really being paranoid? It's like the older generation needs a crash course in "re-parenting" or baby care.
Another thing is that they think it's cute he 'watches' tv. Thankfully he really doesn't, (although he likes the spinning wheel of fortune) and I absolutely do not want him to watch tv! But, they think he should or it's no big deal. I know this is, again, different times, different rules, etc. But, unless I stand there and lecture about everything that's changed in the world in the last 25 years and give examples of studies and pediatric research...? What do I do?
It probably will offend people if I choose a center or home daycare when/if I need to, but I know I need to do what will make me comfortable leaving my child. I also talked with Kevin how I'd like to find a teenage girl in this new church we started attending who we could rely on for a few years and really get to know our family, that would be most beneficial. Plus, let's not just forget the fact he's still nursing and he's only 8 months old, so extended time away from me is just not necessary. Am I really crazy?
Weekly Updates
Having spent the last three days with 2 extra children, who weren't exactly being angelic (one more than the other-and not the one you'd think) I'm exhausted. Kevin threatened no more children, but I had to remind him that they weren't ours and were raised different and had been around and around and had lots of change in their lives and also were on vacation from school and all that jazz...I think he saw my point. Don't worry, there will be more children ;)
Kian is now officially crawling the "right" way. Monday morning he was doing his usual inchworm crawl across the room. Then, he looked up at me, put one arm out, then the other, then each leg. And that was it. I'm thinking, 'why weren't you doing that earlier then?' But, babies do what babies do. He now has 2 top teeth and 2 bottom teeth and 2 more top teeth on either side of the middle ones are on their way. And, he likes brushing them at night. I say "brush teeth" and he opens his mouth and lets me swipe at them a bit. He also is waving more like a wave instead of the fisted hitler wave. He waves his arm up and down and then tries to wiggle his fingers. Too stinkin cute. 
This is Kian's first ever picture, well that he took. My camera was on the floor and he crawled over, grabbed it and i have no idea how, but managed to turn it on and push the button. Mostly it was in his mouth though. Yum.I think we're going to finish the week quietly. I'm beat.
Yapping about Yessica
*Warning* overuse of parentheses and sarcasm noted!*
So, we figured out how to fit me in her room and thus began our love, love, hate, love relationship. The very first thing Yessica screamed me stupid for was my yoga tape, yes VHS tape. She said it was satanic, I said it's only stretching. We never worked out that year anyways. We fell into a strangely comfortable, on-edge relationship. We began feeling so comfortable with each other that we began to argue. Little at first, but over the years it grew bigger. And we liked it, so odd that we were.
Jessica. You would think that was her only name, but it's not. Jess, Jessie, the usual suspects, plus there's her last names Newcomb, Scholten, Pyhtila, Glorcomb...then there was Aunty J (to my Aunty K) and she started this strange thing about Domi-J (more on that later) but then I began calling her Yessica (I guess her Dutch grandmother does also) and she began calling me Kwyten/Kwytenbug. And thus was born the Kwyten & Yessica show.
But, I'm ahead of myself already. Let's back up, to the day I actually met this girl. It was June of 1999. We both had decided to come to Roberts and were participating in an overnight orientation. Alphabetically, our last names were close to each other and we were put in the same groups, a lot, that weekend, and in rooms near each other. For some strange reason that only God knows, because God has a mega sense of humor I guess, we connected that weekend and latched onto each other. We also drooled over the same guy, I think I remember who, but that doesn't matter anymore, neither of us got him, nor wanted him much after that.
After much deliberation (90 seconds) we decided we should become roomates in the fall. So we signed up and crossed our fingers. That fateful day in August rolled around and my sad parents brought me and my meager belongings to Roberts. We pulled in the parking lot and there was a huge pickup truck, overflowing with bags, boxes, baskets, trunks, you name it, it was in there. My mom says "wow that's a lot of crap, I feel sorry for whoever is that person's roommate". See, here's God's sense of humor again...you knew it didn't you? That was Jessica and all her junk, ...er stuff, and I was that poor roommate. That girl filled our 12x12 room to overflowing. I was getting kinda nervous about where I was even going to sleep with all her clothes and hygiene products!And speaking of hygiene products, that girl loved baby powder like fat kids love cake. Unlike my asthma lungs loved cigarette smoke, which is what that room looked like every morning, and what it felt like to my poor, pink lungs. Eventually she got over that, like 2 years later.
So, we figured out how to fit me in her room and thus began our love, love, hate, love relationship. The very first thing Yessica screamed me stupid for was my yoga tape, yes VHS tape. She said it was satanic, I said it's only stretching. We never worked out that year anyways. We fell into a strangely comfortable, on-edge relationship. We began feeling so comfortable with each other that we began to argue. Little at first, but over the years it grew bigger. And we liked it, so odd that we were.When I finally decided I'd had enough of the highschool boyfriend, but was still sad over the end, she came home with me and helpfully pointed out every other good-looking male that breathed. This is when the craziness started. The thing is, we were both "good girls", we both were focused on our school work and studied a lot, but also needed some down-time. So, we created alternate personas. Neither of us had a car, so we were stuck on campus a lot, but we liked the other girls in the hall, so it was okay. We liked them so much, we decided to entertain them with our alternate personas. Or we'd sit in our rooms, on our exact same computers across from each other, instant messaging each other while talking to each other on the microphones...to test them out of course!
May rolls around and we begin talking about the next year and decided, despite our few spats, we should be roommates again. We sign up again, choose our room and we're set. Over the summer I distinctly remember going to her home in Syracuse, eating a stir-fry, skillet-in-a-bag thing and then vomiting all night while, wonderful friend she was, slept right through it. Then there was the time I 'pretended' to 'climb' a tree on campus and she jokingly yells out "SECURITY!" and of course the security guard was just behind her on his bike and thought she needed help. He gave me a "talking too". (basically, while laughing, he told me please don't get hurt and crack my head open climbing trees on campus, especially since it was a 3 inch around sapling.)
Back in school again, I meet Kevin and she meets a guy. This caused lots of arguments, I mean clearly these boys were taking us away from each other. How could they? She became super involved with the nameless boy and we began having more arguments. I vividly remember a yelling match down the hall with dorm-mates and my friends present. She soon left me, for another roommate on the other side of the quads, spring semester. Jody let her have boys in her room, even though it was against the rules. After we cooled down we still hung out and obviously in May we just knew we had to be roommates again, but we were getting the campus apartments this time as juniors! We just would be perfect together rooming and sharing an apartment again!
This time actually was the worst hate, love, hate time in our lives. She continued seeing that boy, got engaged to him, un-engaged a few times and re-engaged a few times. I tried to ever so gently point out, that I didn't think it was a good idea. But, she disagreed. She also helpfully pointed out all of Marine Guy's faults and Kevin's too.
And thus Psychotic Hour was born. I claim Jess came up with all these names, I do not want any patents or copyrights associated with me. This usually consisted of whatever argument turning into a chase around the apartment, flying freezing, cold water hitting everyone and everything, laughing and snorting and being so loud that our neighbors would pound on the wall or door to shut us up. And it was only 9 o'clock! And cheap wine, nor beer, nor vodka had ever touched our lips.
Essentially, we knew how to push each other's buttons, how to make each other laugh hysterically and how to drag each other out of the pit of despair. It really was great. Except those times she would beg and cry to me she needed to pee while I was in the shower, and I'd lovingly unlock the door, and be blasted with freezing cold water on my naked body. Yep, that's love. Why she thinks that is so funny, I don't know, and yes she still thinks it's the most hilarious thing ever in her life.
Then, it happened. She married that guy. I was supposed to be in her wedding, but just before we decided to go into one of our hate modes and I didn't. I feel bad, but then again, I didn't want her to marry that guy. And with good reason, as he left her high and dry and did her wrong. I had some foreshadowing perhaps... She got back at me by not coming to my wedding. And you know what the best part is? We laugh about it and think it's funny. There really was never any hard feelings, well none that wouldn't dissapate after 23 seconds.
When Kevin and I had a big fight right after we were married, she came and spent the night with me, leaving her then-husband alone. And when he left her, I spent the night with her and left my husband alone. There's no beating around the bush, we say what we mean, and mean what we say, and sometimes we say it mean. When I think she's being stupid I tell her, when she thinks I need some smacking around she does it. But we have learned we are better off NOT roommates. Even when she came to stay with Kevin and I one time, I yelled at her. Lord only knows why, it's just what we do. Sadly, I haven't seen her in person in almost 2 years, she hasn't seen Kian yet. I can't punch her in the gut or pour freezing water on her, but I can make her snort like nobody's business on the phone or even on instant message. Sometimes I think she knows me better than I know myself, better than Kevin or my mother even do.
She's a gypsy now. So, I don't know when I shall see her again. She's here and there and everywhere (kinda like the Gummy bears--come on you know you remember that song!) Ok, okay she's not really a gypsy. She set off on some sort of missions trip April 2006 and it turned into this Moses thing where she travels the world for 40 years...or something like that. I just know that every few weeks I get more emails and news that she's in another country or state or continent, or joining a convent, or selling orphans on the black market or preparing monkey meat in Tansinia...you know, the usual things people like her do. But, I don't know what I'd do without her. She'll put the fear of God in you then make laugh so hard your brain flies out your nose. And we all know that everyone needs a friend like that. So, here's to Yessica, my longest relationship yet-9 years and still going strong.
And now you know the rest of the story. Good day.
Ode to Jon
I told him he'd be the first on my tribute list. 
Jon and Kevin went to school together from about 3rd grade on. They both went to Brockport College, but in totally different degree programs. I think they rode the bus togehter? He'll correct any misinformation I put out there. So, I met Jon when Kevin and I were dating. I believe we went to his house to swim after I moved into my ghetto apartment (yes the days of ghetto brook apt, i mean meadowbrook apt don't let the pictures fool you, they don't tell about how Kevin's car got broken into, how the guy downstairs beat his wife and we always had to call the police, or about the 100 lbs of marijuana they confiscated from there, yet I digress...). Soon, Jon and Kevin were cluttering up my apartment with video games, naughty words, furry animals and strange Simpsons phrases.
Jon and Kevin went to school together from about 3rd grade on. They both went to Brockport College, but in totally different degree programs. I think they rode the bus togehter? He'll correct any misinformation I put out there. So, I met Jon when Kevin and I were dating. I believe we went to his house to swim after I moved into my ghetto apartment (yes the days of ghetto brook apt, i mean meadowbrook apt don't let the pictures fool you, they don't tell about how Kevin's car got broken into, how the guy downstairs beat his wife and we always had to call the police, or about the 100 lbs of marijuana they confiscated from there, yet I digress...). Soon, Jon and Kevin were cluttering up my apartment with video games, naughty words, furry animals and strange Simpsons phrases. So, we carried on this way, me going along with them for swimming and frying my brain with all things Simpsons. Jon was even in our wedding, although he still claims he wants his money back, especially for his tux. Sorry, outta luck buddy!
Jon liked to help me introduce Kevin to vegetables and decent restaurants. Jon and I convinced Kevin, like only a year or so ago, to try green peppers at San Jose's Mexican restaurant (delish!) He finally agreed they weren't that bad. Jon also gave us Grandpa Sam's Italian restaurant. Mmm mm!
And who was the first person Kevin called and the first person to arrive to help us do a major one-day moving relay out of Ghetto brook? Jon. Of course. With a truck. And helped us move all day, for two days, into the mumbles townhouse. What a guy. hehe. And again, helped us move into our house? Yep, Jon. He and my brother loaded up moving trucks, other trucks, ripped up carpet in the new house, you name it. And he helped me convince Kevin that every house obviously needs a cat! And now we have two.
Oh it doesn't end there. Jon has been the go-to guy, the fix-it guy, pretty much any and all, he does it. Thanks to Jon I have a dimmer switch in my family room. And Jon came over one day and helped me steam, scrape, peel wall paper off until we were both covered in glue and nasty old country mauve paper. He loves to spend Kevin's money at Home Depot, and it's usually worth it hehe. There's plenty of other projects he's done or assisted with too. Moldings, baseboards, trim, landscaping... Although, he's the one who got Kevin wanting a hot tub, thanks a lot, so much that we ended up with one! And one of the first to come see Kian after he was born. As Kevin's mother likes to say "what would we do without Jon???" =)
(caught the cat mid-air here. these are old and he'll kill me for them! especially since he's all buff and stuff now!)
Some of Jon's favorite sayings:
"who has a rabbit for a pet anyways?"
"hoo hee hah"
"why you little!"
"are you stupid?"
Gosh, I wish I could remember them all, they're quite funny...
The ultimate secret to amazing sugar cookies
I don't care what recipe you use, they're all pretty similar, but the one and only thing that will make your cookies better than anyone else's and soft too?
2 tbsp of orange juice and a few scrapes of the peel.
Seriously. Always add in 2 tbsp of OJ and grate a little orange or lemon zest into the bowl. Can be store OJ or straight from the orange.
After testing a billion sugar cookie/cut-out recipes the last few years, the one we always go back to, that tastes better and is better texture-wise is the one with the OJ in it. I have no idea why this works, maybe the acid breaks down some of the somethings? haha. This Christmas we made 3 different recipes and everyone preferred the ones with OJ in them. You can't taste it, it just somehow makes it better. That and taking them out about 2 minutes before you think they're done.
Now you know my secret.
2 tbsp of orange juice and a few scrapes of the peel.
Seriously. Always add in 2 tbsp of OJ and grate a little orange or lemon zest into the bowl. Can be store OJ or straight from the orange.
After testing a billion sugar cookie/cut-out recipes the last few years, the one we always go back to, that tastes better and is better texture-wise is the one with the OJ in it. I have no idea why this works, maybe the acid breaks down some of the somethings? haha. This Christmas we made 3 different recipes and everyone preferred the ones with OJ in them. You can't taste it, it just somehow makes it better. That and taking them out about 2 minutes before you think they're done.
Now you know my secret.
A pasta dish---or why I love pasta
There is NOTHING you cannot do with pasta. It's endless. It's wonderful. Kevin requested lasagna for Valentine's so that's what I made. A few days ago I made another dish, off the top of my head, cuz I like that. I combine random parts of other recipes to make my own.
This one I called "Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta with peas & tomatoes in a basil parmesan sauce" Yeah I"ll have to think of something shorter. Like, good pasta.
Here's my recipe:
1 box penne
1 clove garlic mashed/minced
about 2 tbsp chopped onion
1 lb - 1.25 lbs of boneless chicken breast
about 1/2 cup peas
about 1/3- 1/2 cup tomatoes (I used grape tomatoes cut in half)
Olive oil
Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
2-3 tbsp flour
1 tsp salt
2 cups milk
1tsp -or more- basil
close to 1/2 cup parmesan
3 deli slices provolone
dash ground black pepper
*I eyeball everything, I really don't use measuring cups*
While pasta was boiling, I cut the chicken into bite size pieces (about an inch or so?) sauteed them in some olive oil with the garlic and onion. Then I began my sauce. In a saucepan, on medium, I melted the butter, added a bit of salt, the basil, then the flour (a wire whisk works great here--basically making a rue to begin with). Then slowly add the milk, a little at a time, whisking it smooth and giving it time to thicken each time. When that is done, I added the provolone and parmesan (you can use any cheese instead of provolone, mozzarella is okay but tends to get very stringy, provolone melts without being too stringy). I then threw the peas and tomatoes in the sauce, but you can also put them in the chicken pan. I wanted the tomatoes warm and soft but not totally mushy. Then add the drained pasta and the chicken together. Voila!
I wish I had a picture because the pasta with the greens of the peas and reds of the tomatoes looked darn good! And it was yummy! And Kevin liked it, so that means it's good.
This one I called "Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta with peas & tomatoes in a basil parmesan sauce" Yeah I"ll have to think of something shorter. Like, good pasta.
Here's my recipe:
1 box penne
1 clove garlic mashed/minced
about 2 tbsp chopped onion
1 lb - 1.25 lbs of boneless chicken breast
about 1/2 cup peas
about 1/3- 1/2 cup tomatoes (I used grape tomatoes cut in half)
Olive oil
Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
2-3 tbsp flour
1 tsp salt
2 cups milk
1tsp -or more- basil
close to 1/2 cup parmesan
3 deli slices provolone
dash ground black pepper
*I eyeball everything, I really don't use measuring cups*
While pasta was boiling, I cut the chicken into bite size pieces (about an inch or so?) sauteed them in some olive oil with the garlic and onion. Then I began my sauce. In a saucepan, on medium, I melted the butter, added a bit of salt, the basil, then the flour (a wire whisk works great here--basically making a rue to begin with). Then slowly add the milk, a little at a time, whisking it smooth and giving it time to thicken each time. When that is done, I added the provolone and parmesan (you can use any cheese instead of provolone, mozzarella is okay but tends to get very stringy, provolone melts without being too stringy). I then threw the peas and tomatoes in the sauce, but you can also put them in the chicken pan. I wanted the tomatoes warm and soft but not totally mushy. Then add the drained pasta and the chicken together. Voila!
I wish I had a picture because the pasta with the greens of the peas and reds of the tomatoes looked darn good! And it was yummy! And Kevin liked it, so that means it's good.
pictures for yesterday's story...
Ever the show-off. (Jon is puking in his office about now-don't worry Jon my first tribute will be to you.) This was typical Kevin when I met him-showing off for the ladies, he's toned it down a bit. Nov 2000 (there's roberts tennis courts in the back)
Halloween 2000 @ Roberts
Technically Roberts didn't have a "halloween party". It was more like a fall gathering, but some people dressed up. How horrible a pimp and his lady showed up there! Gosh to have that body back...excuse me while I sob a bit. The other sad thing is that Kevin originally had leather pants on, but apparently they were too sweaty. They got donated or thrown out shortly after this. I also forgot to mention yesterday, before I officially met Kevin, Jessica and I went on a hayride around campus at night. In the middle of this hay ride, 3 half-naked guys, in boxers and ski masks jump out of the woods and scare the crap out of about 20 girls on this wagon. A month later, yep I found out it was Kevin, his brother Paul and some other guy. wackos.
I really hesitated on this one as it shows a momentary lapse of my otherwise perfect judgement! Winter 2001
Halloween 2000 @ Roberts
Technically Roberts didn't have a "halloween party". It was more like a fall gathering, but some people dressed up. How horrible a pimp and his lady showed up there! Gosh to have that body back...excuse me while I sob a bit. The other sad thing is that Kevin originally had leather pants on, but apparently they were too sweaty. They got donated or thrown out shortly after this. I also forgot to mention yesterday, before I officially met Kevin, Jessica and I went on a hayride around campus at night. In the middle of this hay ride, 3 half-naked guys, in boxers and ski masks jump out of the woods and scare the crap out of about 20 girls on this wagon. A month later, yep I found out it was Kevin, his brother Paul and some other guy. wackos.I really hesitated on this one as it shows a momentary lapse of my otherwise perfect judgement! Winter 2001
Roberts girls were either: 1. studious, innocent, quiet girls or: 2. hell-raising clubbers, athletes who came only for scholarships and not the spirituality, then the clubbing. Jessica and I were of the first. But, we did have to let loose occasionally. We got dressed up like some twisted goth-clubber combo, did our makeup, and...stayed home, with the thong-song. Yep. We were some real rebels I tell ya.
Again, showing off. Fall 2001
In the Roberts apartments, guys were allowed to visit during the day. Jessica's lovely comforter on the couch, that horrid, ugly, smelly thing, I miss it sometimes. I think we were practicing naming muscles and body parts for a test...?
Spring 2001
Still just friends. Those flowers? Jessica and I picked them ourselves...from the planted gardens on campus. Oops. See what I mean about always hanging out? hanging around?
April 2001
My mom brought the kids up to see me, we went to the park down the road. So cute. So small. Promptly after this Kevin called to see if I wanted to go with him while he got his haircut, he might need girl advice. I went. But, my mother was on her way home anyways.
Summer 2001
We were dating at this point. I don't seem to remember what tired Kiara and Kevin out so much?
Halloween 2001
The month after we got engaged. We came to my parents house and Kevin painted and carved pumpkins for the kids. Since he's an expert professional pumpkin carver, it's always his job. And he can do a mean Blue's Clues voice.
September 2003
After the ceremony and reception, on the beach, same spot he proposed.
Thanksgiving 2005
December 2006
Announcing Kian's impending arrival to the family.
December 2007And that I think brings it pretty up to date.
PS I think I like myself as a blonde, the way I was born, but sadly is now disappearing... And I wish I still had those legs...sigh. Back to the treadmill.
Fear Less Fridays
Last week I did a 'fearless' friday post. This time I changed it to Fear Less, because these are things I fear and maybe I will fear them less if I talk about them? Oh who am I kidding, they'll still scare the crap out of me.
Today, I am going to admit that once in awhile, thank God it's not often, I get stuck on what would happen to my child, my spouse, the world, without me? Or if something happened to both Kevin and I? Would there be fighting over my child? Who would raise him closest to what I would? Would he know how much I love him? Would he know how much I/we sacrificed for him and actually appreciate it? Horrible I know.
Now, I do have some thoughts on who I would actually want to raise my child. Yes, I know this is where everyone lectures me on having a will or something in writing, and yes we plan on getting that done soon. I would also plan on having someone else see to the money part.
I just panic sometimes when I think of these things. Boys aren't emotional and how would this child really truly know the depth of my love if I wasnt there to tell him? Would anyone else remind him? Even tho I wish he could stay small, I want to see him grow up and see who he will be.
Ok, confession over. Hopefully, in time this fear will become less and less...
Can someone also tell me WHY for the love of Pete the stupid spell check hasn't worked in weeks?!!!!
Today, I am going to admit that once in awhile, thank God it's not often, I get stuck on what would happen to my child, my spouse, the world, without me? Or if something happened to both Kevin and I? Would there be fighting over my child? Who would raise him closest to what I would? Would he know how much I love him? Would he know how much I/we sacrificed for him and actually appreciate it? Horrible I know.
Now, I do have some thoughts on who I would actually want to raise my child. Yes, I know this is where everyone lectures me on having a will or something in writing, and yes we plan on getting that done soon. I would also plan on having someone else see to the money part.
I just panic sometimes when I think of these things. Boys aren't emotional and how would this child really truly know the depth of my love if I wasnt there to tell him? Would anyone else remind him? Even tho I wish he could stay small, I want to see him grow up and see who he will be.
Ok, confession over. Hopefully, in time this fear will become less and less...
Can someone also tell me WHY for the love of Pete the stupid spell check hasn't worked in weeks?!!!!
First-a poop story
Now, this is the kind of thing that keeps families together and makes you love your spouse even more...or is it?
The other day we were getting Kian ready for a bath. I gather up the supplies (I keep soap, shampoo, toys, lotions, in this handy caddy, but mine's just plain blue) and get the bath water ready, clear out the sink, etc. While I do this, Kevin has taken to getting Kian undressed, undiapered, etc. Good teamwork so far right? Kevin lets me do the washing and the rinsing, then he's ready with a warm towel and diaper, he hates the thought of Kian being cold, probably because he doesn't enjoy it himself...
Of course, Kian is into standing up all the time and jumping if you are holding onto him. He wouldn't sit down, and definitely not lay down for Kevin to take off his diaper. Kevin says "can I take it off while he's standing up?" I said "sure, as long as there's not any..." Rip goes one side, rip goes the other. "...poop...in...it..." And what do you think? Of COURSE there was poop in it. Did Kevin even bother checking before he let it rip? No. Does the child stand still? No, he dives toward the sink and the water. Diaper falls, poop falls on that lovely 'chuck' mat I stole from the hospital. (I mean accidentally found it's way into my bag when I left after laboring for days on end) Kevin goes to grab a wipe to pick up the poop with, and Kian, whom Kevin is still holding, steps back into it. Then steps onto the sink.
At this point, I am laughing so hysterically I can't breathe, I can't talk and am trying my darndest not to pee my pants. And probably if you're not a parent and had your own poop story, which you ALL have one, you won't see the humor in this. Yes it's gross, but when you have a baby it's not so gross anymore. Well it is, but not like it used to be...
Luckily Kevin was laughing too. Grabbed some papertowels, wiped things down. Got the kid in the bathwater. I grabbed some bleach and sanitized the area (no NOT the baby or his bathwater.) Whew! If I had a video I'd probably have one that darn show and got me some money!
On another note, I think next week I'll do some tributes...maybe YOUR name will come up?
And I know I have other readers, but they never make themselves known. I feel so sad, like Rachel and Christy are my only blogworld friends hehe =)
The other day we were getting Kian ready for a bath. I gather up the supplies (I keep soap, shampoo, toys, lotions, in this handy caddy, but mine's just plain blue) and get the bath water ready, clear out the sink, etc. While I do this, Kevin has taken to getting Kian undressed, undiapered, etc. Good teamwork so far right? Kevin lets me do the washing and the rinsing, then he's ready with a warm towel and diaper, he hates the thought of Kian being cold, probably because he doesn't enjoy it himself...
Of course, Kian is into standing up all the time and jumping if you are holding onto him. He wouldn't sit down, and definitely not lay down for Kevin to take off his diaper. Kevin says "can I take it off while he's standing up?" I said "sure, as long as there's not any..." Rip goes one side, rip goes the other. "...poop...in...it..." And what do you think? Of COURSE there was poop in it. Did Kevin even bother checking before he let it rip? No. Does the child stand still? No, he dives toward the sink and the water. Diaper falls, poop falls on that lovely 'chuck' mat I stole from the hospital. (I mean accidentally found it's way into my bag when I left after laboring for days on end) Kevin goes to grab a wipe to pick up the poop with, and Kian, whom Kevin is still holding, steps back into it. Then steps onto the sink.
At this point, I am laughing so hysterically I can't breathe, I can't talk and am trying my darndest not to pee my pants. And probably if you're not a parent and had your own poop story, which you ALL have one, you won't see the humor in this. Yes it's gross, but when you have a baby it's not so gross anymore. Well it is, but not like it used to be...
Luckily Kevin was laughing too. Grabbed some papertowels, wiped things down. Got the kid in the bathwater. I grabbed some bleach and sanitized the area (no NOT the baby or his bathwater.) Whew! If I had a video I'd probably have one that darn show and got me some money!
On another note, I think next week I'll do some tributes...maybe YOUR name will come up?
And I know I have other readers, but they never make themselves known. I feel so sad, like Rachel and Christy are my only blogworld friends hehe =)
Me too?
Everyone in blog world is having a Valetine's story contest thingy. I am not included, but I figured I might as well include myself in the mushiness. At the very least I can say some nice things about Kevin on this lovely day.
I don't think I have a dramatic or traumatic or awe-inspiring story. I think it's a simple, gradual evolution of love, will you. The very first time I saw Kevin, before I knew it was Kevin, my roomate and I were at a college 'church' service. Basically, led by students, very casual on a Sunday night. We were late, because that is Jessica and I. Together=late. And since we were always together, we were always late. But, I digress. We slipped in the back, in the very last row. There was a guy and a girl in front of us. They had some sporty clothes on and were kinda dusty (volleyball just before church?!). He, in his wife-beater (if you know Kevin, that's his darn trademark) had his hand...on... her... behind! In church! (well kinda church). That's all Jess and I talked about the whole time. He insists it was her hip. But, we thought he was cute. That was it.
Then about a month later, another friend dragged me to BT's with her. (Mmm BT's, the wonderful late-night, full-grease food pit.) She also wanted to go because she was in love with a guy who was there. That guy happened to be Paul, Kevin's brother. Now, I should mention that NEITHER Paul or Kevin actually went to Roberts. They lived across the street from Roberts, but both went to Brockport, but spent every waking moment at Roberts. So, Heather dragged me there and introduced me to Paul, Kevin and Josh. That Sunday she begged me to go to their house with her and make them cookies. Having nothing better to do, I obliged, knowing how in love she was with Paul.
Of course I began talking to these boys and we became friends. I was at the time however, "with" a Marine, who was in California & Japan. And Kevin was with the volleyball-butt-touching girl anyways. But, we hung out, a lot. Kevin ended up dumping volleyball girl, but I was still with Marine guy. So, we just hung out, a lot. Paul and Kevin would come to my dorm room (remember at Roberts boys aren't allowed in girls' rooms.) they would come to the window outside the room and throw little rocks and pebbles at the window so I could come down. It was the cutest thing. I think Jess might have been worried they would break the window?? We usually just studied together, we took walks around campus, went to the gym, etc. At this point Paul and I hung out a lot more, as we were the studious ones, while Kevin goofed off a lot. I remember one male friend telling me that Paul and I would probably get together. I just kinda laughed and said that isn't the brother I wanted. Even tho I was with Marine guy.
Then came summer break, then winter break. That Christmas break, Kevin piled his brother and his best friend in his tiny camaro to drive the hour to see me in the snow. Kind of odd for being friends with a girl who has a 'boyfriend'. He also went all the way to Leroy to get on the thruway instead of geting on in Henrietta, which means he made his drive 35 minutes longer, in the wrong direction, than he needed to. He still has directional issues, but that's why I'm here.
So when we got back to school that fall, that would be 2001, Kevin and I were best friends and hung out every waking minute. Marine guy was still in the picture, and of course was very upset about my time with Kevin. It was about that time that I realized I didn't like it when other girls flirted with him. It never bothered me before because we were friends. I tried to ignore it, but my lovely roomate did not help the situation and liked to encourage me in all the wrong ways. Gosh I love her. We spent most of that semester helping Kevin studying Chemistry and A&P, since he liked to fail Chem we had lots of work to do. Not exactly what a psych major knew about.
Well, about 3 weeks after being in school, I get a call from Marine guy, who was in Okinawa at this time. He proceeds to tell me some unmentionable things he did and paid for. Enough said. I couldn't get my head around that and ironically Kevin called to see if I wanted to walk around the beach right then. Of course I did, I needed to process what had just happened and what I was to do with it and it helped to process things with Kevin who just listened. Keivn never told me what to do, but said that was totally wrong, unfair and I didn't deserve that. That only helped to make me start falling in love with him. I ended it with Marine guy, but he tried to make it the world's longest breakup.
Kevin and I began getting closer and realizing there was definitely more there. I think he finally realized it when just before end of spring semester, I went trapsing through the woods with him for almost 2 hours, covered in mud, getting lost and scratched up, just because he wanted to. Going home for summer break was difficult knowing we were going to be an hour away. We never really talked about us, it just was. Finally after a few weeks of long calls and lots of emails, Kevin said he was coming out for my 21st birthday. He was bringing a present and it was for his girlfriend. That was official. Which I have to make mention it was rather funny because he had told me this "list" when I first met him about what his girlfriend had to have and he listed a car as a major thing. Well, I didn't have one. Ironic?
We only 'officially' dated for about 5 months before we got engaged. People thought/think we were crazy, but the years of being good, close friends really allowed us to know each other and it just seemed natural. Now, I realize we're nearing 5 years. Four and a half years we've been married, we've survived living next to mumbles. (I'll write about mumbles soon!) Of course there are ups and downs, but we've remained friends and encourage each other in our separate areas and it's been amazing, we really complement each other because we are such opposites. Kevin is outgoing and social and wants to be where the action is, I prefer staying home with my tea and books. So odd. Makes me laugh when I think I actually thought I was going to marry Marine guy and go live randomly around the world, that's so not me. I was trying to be someone I wasn't cut out to be. And with Kevin, I can be who I am.
I don't think I have a dramatic or traumatic or awe-inspiring story. I think it's a simple, gradual evolution of love, will you. The very first time I saw Kevin, before I knew it was Kevin, my roomate and I were at a college 'church' service. Basically, led by students, very casual on a Sunday night. We were late, because that is Jessica and I. Together=late. And since we were always together, we were always late. But, I digress. We slipped in the back, in the very last row. There was a guy and a girl in front of us. They had some sporty clothes on and were kinda dusty (volleyball just before church?!). He, in his wife-beater (if you know Kevin, that's his darn trademark) had his hand...on... her... behind! In church! (well kinda church). That's all Jess and I talked about the whole time. He insists it was her hip. But, we thought he was cute. That was it.
Then about a month later, another friend dragged me to BT's with her. (Mmm BT's, the wonderful late-night, full-grease food pit.) She also wanted to go because she was in love with a guy who was there. That guy happened to be Paul, Kevin's brother. Now, I should mention that NEITHER Paul or Kevin actually went to Roberts. They lived across the street from Roberts, but both went to Brockport, but spent every waking moment at Roberts. So, Heather dragged me there and introduced me to Paul, Kevin and Josh. That Sunday she begged me to go to their house with her and make them cookies. Having nothing better to do, I obliged, knowing how in love she was with Paul.
Of course I began talking to these boys and we became friends. I was at the time however, "with" a Marine, who was in California & Japan. And Kevin was with the volleyball-butt-touching girl anyways. But, we hung out, a lot. Kevin ended up dumping volleyball girl, but I was still with Marine guy. So, we just hung out, a lot. Paul and Kevin would come to my dorm room (remember at Roberts boys aren't allowed in girls' rooms.) they would come to the window outside the room and throw little rocks and pebbles at the window so I could come down. It was the cutest thing. I think Jess might have been worried they would break the window?? We usually just studied together, we took walks around campus, went to the gym, etc. At this point Paul and I hung out a lot more, as we were the studious ones, while Kevin goofed off a lot. I remember one male friend telling me that Paul and I would probably get together. I just kinda laughed and said that isn't the brother I wanted. Even tho I was with Marine guy.
Then came summer break, then winter break. That Christmas break, Kevin piled his brother and his best friend in his tiny camaro to drive the hour to see me in the snow. Kind of odd for being friends with a girl who has a 'boyfriend'. He also went all the way to Leroy to get on the thruway instead of geting on in Henrietta, which means he made his drive 35 minutes longer, in the wrong direction, than he needed to. He still has directional issues, but that's why I'm here.
So when we got back to school that fall, that would be 2001, Kevin and I were best friends and hung out every waking minute. Marine guy was still in the picture, and of course was very upset about my time with Kevin. It was about that time that I realized I didn't like it when other girls flirted with him. It never bothered me before because we were friends. I tried to ignore it, but my lovely roomate did not help the situation and liked to encourage me in all the wrong ways. Gosh I love her. We spent most of that semester helping Kevin studying Chemistry and A&P, since he liked to fail Chem we had lots of work to do. Not exactly what a psych major knew about.
Well, about 3 weeks after being in school, I get a call from Marine guy, who was in Okinawa at this time. He proceeds to tell me some unmentionable things he did and paid for. Enough said. I couldn't get my head around that and ironically Kevin called to see if I wanted to walk around the beach right then. Of course I did, I needed to process what had just happened and what I was to do with it and it helped to process things with Kevin who just listened. Keivn never told me what to do, but said that was totally wrong, unfair and I didn't deserve that. That only helped to make me start falling in love with him. I ended it with Marine guy, but he tried to make it the world's longest breakup.
Kevin and I began getting closer and realizing there was definitely more there. I think he finally realized it when just before end of spring semester, I went trapsing through the woods with him for almost 2 hours, covered in mud, getting lost and scratched up, just because he wanted to. Going home for summer break was difficult knowing we were going to be an hour away. We never really talked about us, it just was. Finally after a few weeks of long calls and lots of emails, Kevin said he was coming out for my 21st birthday. He was bringing a present and it was for his girlfriend. That was official. Which I have to make mention it was rather funny because he had told me this "list" when I first met him about what his girlfriend had to have and he listed a car as a major thing. Well, I didn't have one. Ironic?
We only 'officially' dated for about 5 months before we got engaged. People thought/think we were crazy, but the years of being good, close friends really allowed us to know each other and it just seemed natural. Now, I realize we're nearing 5 years. Four and a half years we've been married, we've survived living next to mumbles. (I'll write about mumbles soon!) Of course there are ups and downs, but we've remained friends and encourage each other in our separate areas and it's been amazing, we really complement each other because we are such opposites. Kevin is outgoing and social and wants to be where the action is, I prefer staying home with my tea and books. So odd. Makes me laugh when I think I actually thought I was going to marry Marine guy and go live randomly around the world, that's so not me. I was trying to be someone I wasn't cut out to be. And with Kevin, I can be who I am.
I'm so over:
*babyfood. I'm thinking if all the previous mothers over the last 1000 years did without the little jars, we're all good. I did three months of making my own baby food. It was fun, it was interesting, but some work. I find that now that Kian is about 8 months old he seems to be ready for 'our' food. I've slowly introduced a variety of foods, now meats and some spices. It's just simply easier to mush up whatever we're eating. Like, last night I made beef stew, with potatoes, carrots and celery, some bay leaf, parsley, ground pepper and garlic powder. Before I added some cornstarch/flour (to thicken) and salt, I simply took some out for him, let it cool and mashed it a bit. He loved it, was fine with it, and oh so much easier. I'm using up what's left in my freezer and then he's on 'our' table foods. Soooo much more cost effective this way.
(*If I took the time to actually calculate it out, I'm sure it'd be a lot. I just tell Kevin by breastfeeding I've saved him about $25 each week in formula; and by making my own baby foods I've saved $12-25, maybe more, each week. So far, that's $875 I'd have spent on formula, and around $300 on baby food. Let's not forget I save a ton by using some cloth diapers. Ok I'll stop bragging now.)
*tons of baby gear. That swing is now taking up my basement storage, when it barely got used. By 4 months Kian was way over it. I didn't let him sleep in it, so it was rarely used. Bouncy seat that got used for the first 3 months, only if I was making dinner, taking a shower, etc. Gadgets galore. I'm a big floor play believer. He and I spent most of the time, and still do, on the floor, with toys, with books, cats, whatever. (My thought is that you use more gear the more kids you have, because you have less hands??)
*deceiving labels. You think you're buying healthy whole wheat bread, only to find all the junk that's in it, which is not that healthy for you. Lori's natural foods, here I come. I do tend to make a lot of things here at home-pizza crust, breads, rolls, etc. I really would love to venture in to pasta making, but I don't have a pasta maker.
*winter. Snow. cold. ice. Basically Rochester weather. Shoveling. Aching back from shoveling. You know, the good stuff.
*politics and government. I've yet to find a politician or candidate that's trustworthy.
*money.
*teething at night.
*razor cuts when I shave. (that's if I get to shave, since I'm always on duty, showers tend be in and out, so horrible for a water lover like me)
*this cream and blue 80's country wall paper in my family room. Just wait until spring you wretched paper, you will be history! (.....Jon....?)
*dull knife blades. Finally I got a knife sharpener, works wonders, who'd have thought?
*I'm sure there's more but that's just what came to my head while I was on the elliptical.
(*If I took the time to actually calculate it out, I'm sure it'd be a lot. I just tell Kevin by breastfeeding I've saved him about $25 each week in formula; and by making my own baby foods I've saved $12-25, maybe more, each week. So far, that's $875 I'd have spent on formula, and around $300 on baby food. Let's not forget I save a ton by using some cloth diapers. Ok I'll stop bragging now.)
*tons of baby gear. That swing is now taking up my basement storage, when it barely got used. By 4 months Kian was way over it. I didn't let him sleep in it, so it was rarely used. Bouncy seat that got used for the first 3 months, only if I was making dinner, taking a shower, etc. Gadgets galore. I'm a big floor play believer. He and I spent most of the time, and still do, on the floor, with toys, with books, cats, whatever. (My thought is that you use more gear the more kids you have, because you have less hands??)
*deceiving labels. You think you're buying healthy whole wheat bread, only to find all the junk that's in it, which is not that healthy for you. Lori's natural foods, here I come. I do tend to make a lot of things here at home-pizza crust, breads, rolls, etc. I really would love to venture in to pasta making, but I don't have a pasta maker.
*winter. Snow. cold. ice. Basically Rochester weather. Shoveling. Aching back from shoveling. You know, the good stuff.
*politics and government. I've yet to find a politician or candidate that's trustworthy.
*money.
*teething at night.
*razor cuts when I shave. (that's if I get to shave, since I'm always on duty, showers tend be in and out, so horrible for a water lover like me)
*this cream and blue 80's country wall paper in my family room. Just wait until spring you wretched paper, you will be history! (.....Jon....?)
*dull knife blades. Finally I got a knife sharpener, works wonders, who'd have thought?
*I'm sure there's more but that's just what came to my head while I was on the elliptical.
Teeth
I forgot to say that his top tooth came through the other day. Now the other 2 are just about there. We had some sleep for a few nights after it popped in. Now that the other ones are just about there he was up again every 2 hours last night. Blah. And he poked me in the eye this morning, which made it all puffy and very hard to see out of and hurts horribly. I was going to a mom's group today but after being so exhausted and now with a puffy eye...I think I shall stay home ...sigh. In this freezing, snowing, icing weather. I love it. My dad's going to FL next week, is that fair? No! I should take some pictures and send them to FL, but they'll just laugh and say how glad they are they aren't here. I will try to get some teeth pictures because I think they are oh so cute. Kevin likes to call him a beaver now. Great!
Kian
Could he BE anymore beautiful? In my most humble opinion of course =)
Now compare to me at 5 months:
Playing around with the photo programs:
Now compare to me at 5 months:Playing around with the photo programs:
New thang
Kian pulled himself up the other day. And tries to a lot lately. He likes to try to use my hair to pull himself up on my lap. Yeah, not cool. Or he likes to grab your hands and pull to standing. We already moved his mattress down lower because we knew it was coming. Although, my wonderful husband had this brilliant idea to put the mattress on the LOWEST setting already. Why? Because the nuts & bolts were a pain in the behind to get undone and redo, so he only wanted to do it once. He didn't want to keep doing it. Fine. If you're 7 feet tall! Did I mention I really hate this crib? The stupid side doesn't go down! Ugh. Anyways. Doesn't seem to bother Kian, just me. Other than that, he's starting to realize he can move his legs separately to crawl instead of being an inchworm, legs, then arms, then legs then arms. He also loves opening and closing his refrigerator door. It makes open/close noises and he gets it to pull on the handle. Too cute. Ok, just some randomness for now.
My soapbox of the week: The Business of Being Born
Soapbox: Obstetrical Community follies
I have to say, even almost 8 months later, I still am disappointed, slightly disturbed and even angry about how my labor and delivery went. Yes, I had plans and expectations, but I also knew I had to be flexible. What I did NOT count on was doctors and nurses taking advantage of me, a first time mother, first pregnancy, basically naive to the obstetrical ways. Yes, in the end maybe all that matters is that I had a healthy baby and neither of us had any complications...or did we? [Quick recap-it's in my blog somewhere: My OB scraped/weakend my membranes, which caused me to leak fluid. I had been having semi-regular contactions but no labor yet. They then induced me because I had been leaking for almost 48 hours. I was in labor for 20 hours, stuck at 6 cm for at least 9 hours. I was not allowed to walk, could barely move, had to be monitored, not allowed to do what I needed for the pain and my body. It turned out alright, but I felt violated in ways...]
Every time I watch A Baby Story, or Special Deliveries or some other labor/birth show I get angry at what doctors and nurses are doing to mothers. Women don't know how to stand up for themselves yet because we are told to listen to the doctors, doctors are always right, blah blah blah. Women also are not educated about labor and birthing. Sure we all take the class. Sure we learn how to breathe. But does anyone really explain that gravity helps the baby come down and the cervix to open? Does anyone tell women that laying on her back is not the best position? Does anyone tell the women they can give birth in other positions besides laying on her back with their feet in the air? Does anyone tell women that contractions may be easier to deal with if you are moving? That movement/walking speeds up labor? That the majority of women who opt for epidurals end up with pitocin, and the same goes for that most women who are given pitocin end up needing/wanting epidurals because pitocin causes hyperuterine contractions that are more painful, closer together and more intense? No. I found out some of that myself.
Ricki Lake was on Ellen the other day or other week, I don't remember. She was talking about her documentary "The Business of Being Born". She had her first child in the hospital with an epidural and for the second she wanted to change things, she wanted to try new things, she wanted to research and become educated. This looks amazing. It gives statistics and shows all the side affects we're not told of. (I remember asking the nurse about side affects of the pitocin as they kept giving it to me. She said "none". None? Really? Everything has a side affect. I felt like it was giving me a headache. She said "no, none". Right. Try researching that.) This documentary goes over how Obstetrics and Maternity care in the US is a high-paying, profit-making business. Yep. And she's right. My doc who wanted to get me going into labor? She wanted me to go into labor and deliver on her watch. I later found out she was going on vacation the next week and she wanted to deliver me herself. Why? Big bucks. I didn't have a real connection with her, it's not like I had to have her there or else. It also looks at the roles of midwives and doulas that are beginning to make a comeback in the US. There are incredible facts, that you can also find anywhere else (WHO, etc.) about how the USA has a horrible maternal/baby delivery death rate compared to other developed countries.
I don't blame women, I don't argue that their pain necessitated the need of medication. I, myself, had to take some because of the long, intense labor, which I blame purely on pitocin. My body, as with most women, couldn't adjust to the increases of pitocin and work with it as well. Natural labor allows the body to adjust and is timed better. Not saying that it isn't painful, but it's the body doing what it needs to do; not the body being forced into something it wasn't ready for.
I always came back to work from my prenatal appointments telling my coworkers how I felt like a number, a machine, a process, I don't even know the word. I kept saying how disappointed I was that I couldn't get a connection with my doctor, not for lack of trying. I was one of 30 patients she'd see that day, she told me so. She didn't have the time or the want to get to know me, to personalize my experience. There was barely any talk, barely any information given or asked, other than handouts thrown at me. If I didn't read and research and talk to as many people as I do, I wouldn't have known 3/4 of what I knew. I have said so many times "I can't imagine being a teenage girl and pregnant in these conditions, you would be so clueless and lost". I really felt ignored, taken advantage of.
And the response I got from coworkers and friends? "Get used to it, there's no personal care in America, you're in, you're out, you're done. They've got other patients to see, other money to collect". So sad, but so true. They all experienced the same things. No one I've talked to yet has really felt a great connection with their doctor and practice and was allowed to have a very personalized birth, or even personal prenatal visits. Some practices you see a different doctor every prenatal visit. I, at least, was able to see the same doc every time. Not that it mattered much because when it came down to it, they wanted my labor to go how they wanted it to go, when they wanted it to.
I am seriously, *gasp* considering a homebirth for the next one. I had said I wanted it the first time, but they all told me with my "clotting factor" I best go to the hospital, especially for the first one, etc. etc. etc. I wish I had followed my gut. No, it wasn't horrible. No, nothing went seriously wrong. No. I just hate that I was treated like a sickness. We gotta get these drugs in her, get that parasite out and yada yada. I want a midwife, someone who will let me do what my body needs to do. If I want to sit on a ball all night, then let me. If I want to walk the block 63 times, let me. I don't want 8 interns checking me, violating me all night long, every hour. I don't want someone manipulating my child's head as it comes out, or 'stretching' me before the head is there. I want to be in the comforts of my own home. I don't like spending the night somewhere, let alone 3, while in pain, and not being able to be comfortable as I would in my own home.
Call me a hippie, call me a freak, call me a crunchy granola crazy. Just think. Why do we make a fuss and send back our food at a restaurant if it isn't just as we ordered, or just how we like, yet we take the back seat and give the doctor the controls when it comes to something like labor? It's our bodies, our babies. And instead of going with instinct we're going with chemicals and MEN doctors telling us what to do wtih our bodies. I just find it odd. I think women are stronger than they think, smarter than they believe and just don't know it because they're told they're not. They're told to listen to a doctor instead of their own bodies. I think we need to take back our instinct, take back our bodies, take back our strength and take back control of labor. Why stand by and let them induce chemicals in our bodies to fit into their schedules?
*Please note I am not bashing what anyone chooses. I sometimes get passionate about things and just need to speak about them. I am putting blame on the medical 'professionals'. I am disgusted with the way America's health care is anyways and to feel like an income check to them so much so that they want to control my labor for it? I just think that Obstetric care pendulum has swung too much to the side of technology and thrown away how natural it really is. Women have been giving birth for thousands of years. Most of this medical technology is new, only in the last 20-50 years. Just something to ponder. I'll accept any and all criticism.
I have to say, even almost 8 months later, I still am disappointed, slightly disturbed and even angry about how my labor and delivery went. Yes, I had plans and expectations, but I also knew I had to be flexible. What I did NOT count on was doctors and nurses taking advantage of me, a first time mother, first pregnancy, basically naive to the obstetrical ways. Yes, in the end maybe all that matters is that I had a healthy baby and neither of us had any complications...or did we? [Quick recap-it's in my blog somewhere: My OB scraped/weakend my membranes, which caused me to leak fluid. I had been having semi-regular contactions but no labor yet. They then induced me because I had been leaking for almost 48 hours. I was in labor for 20 hours, stuck at 6 cm for at least 9 hours. I was not allowed to walk, could barely move, had to be monitored, not allowed to do what I needed for the pain and my body. It turned out alright, but I felt violated in ways...]
Every time I watch A Baby Story, or Special Deliveries or some other labor/birth show I get angry at what doctors and nurses are doing to mothers. Women don't know how to stand up for themselves yet because we are told to listen to the doctors, doctors are always right, blah blah blah. Women also are not educated about labor and birthing. Sure we all take the class. Sure we learn how to breathe. But does anyone really explain that gravity helps the baby come down and the cervix to open? Does anyone tell women that laying on her back is not the best position? Does anyone tell the women they can give birth in other positions besides laying on her back with their feet in the air? Does anyone tell women that contractions may be easier to deal with if you are moving? That movement/walking speeds up labor? That the majority of women who opt for epidurals end up with pitocin, and the same goes for that most women who are given pitocin end up needing/wanting epidurals because pitocin causes hyperuterine contractions that are more painful, closer together and more intense? No. I found out some of that myself.
Ricki Lake was on Ellen the other day or other week, I don't remember. She was talking about her documentary "The Business of Being Born". She had her first child in the hospital with an epidural and for the second she wanted to change things, she wanted to try new things, she wanted to research and become educated. This looks amazing. It gives statistics and shows all the side affects we're not told of. (I remember asking the nurse about side affects of the pitocin as they kept giving it to me. She said "none". None? Really? Everything has a side affect. I felt like it was giving me a headache. She said "no, none". Right. Try researching that.) This documentary goes over how Obstetrics and Maternity care in the US is a high-paying, profit-making business. Yep. And she's right. My doc who wanted to get me going into labor? She wanted me to go into labor and deliver on her watch. I later found out she was going on vacation the next week and she wanted to deliver me herself. Why? Big bucks. I didn't have a real connection with her, it's not like I had to have her there or else. It also looks at the roles of midwives and doulas that are beginning to make a comeback in the US. There are incredible facts, that you can also find anywhere else (WHO, etc.) about how the USA has a horrible maternal/baby delivery death rate compared to other developed countries.
I don't blame women, I don't argue that their pain necessitated the need of medication. I, myself, had to take some because of the long, intense labor, which I blame purely on pitocin. My body, as with most women, couldn't adjust to the increases of pitocin and work with it as well. Natural labor allows the body to adjust and is timed better. Not saying that it isn't painful, but it's the body doing what it needs to do; not the body being forced into something it wasn't ready for.
I always came back to work from my prenatal appointments telling my coworkers how I felt like a number, a machine, a process, I don't even know the word. I kept saying how disappointed I was that I couldn't get a connection with my doctor, not for lack of trying. I was one of 30 patients she'd see that day, she told me so. She didn't have the time or the want to get to know me, to personalize my experience. There was barely any talk, barely any information given or asked, other than handouts thrown at me. If I didn't read and research and talk to as many people as I do, I wouldn't have known 3/4 of what I knew. I have said so many times "I can't imagine being a teenage girl and pregnant in these conditions, you would be so clueless and lost". I really felt ignored, taken advantage of.
And the response I got from coworkers and friends? "Get used to it, there's no personal care in America, you're in, you're out, you're done. They've got other patients to see, other money to collect". So sad, but so true. They all experienced the same things. No one I've talked to yet has really felt a great connection with their doctor and practice and was allowed to have a very personalized birth, or even personal prenatal visits. Some practices you see a different doctor every prenatal visit. I, at least, was able to see the same doc every time. Not that it mattered much because when it came down to it, they wanted my labor to go how they wanted it to go, when they wanted it to.
I am seriously, *gasp* considering a homebirth for the next one. I had said I wanted it the first time, but they all told me with my "clotting factor" I best go to the hospital, especially for the first one, etc. etc. etc. I wish I had followed my gut. No, it wasn't horrible. No, nothing went seriously wrong. No. I just hate that I was treated like a sickness. We gotta get these drugs in her, get that parasite out and yada yada. I want a midwife, someone who will let me do what my body needs to do. If I want to sit on a ball all night, then let me. If I want to walk the block 63 times, let me. I don't want 8 interns checking me, violating me all night long, every hour. I don't want someone manipulating my child's head as it comes out, or 'stretching' me before the head is there. I want to be in the comforts of my own home. I don't like spending the night somewhere, let alone 3, while in pain, and not being able to be comfortable as I would in my own home.
Call me a hippie, call me a freak, call me a crunchy granola crazy. Just think. Why do we make a fuss and send back our food at a restaurant if it isn't just as we ordered, or just how we like, yet we take the back seat and give the doctor the controls when it comes to something like labor? It's our bodies, our babies. And instead of going with instinct we're going with chemicals and MEN doctors telling us what to do wtih our bodies. I just find it odd. I think women are stronger than they think, smarter than they believe and just don't know it because they're told they're not. They're told to listen to a doctor instead of their own bodies. I think we need to take back our instinct, take back our bodies, take back our strength and take back control of labor. Why stand by and let them induce chemicals in our bodies to fit into their schedules?
*Please note I am not bashing what anyone chooses. I sometimes get passionate about things and just need to speak about them. I am putting blame on the medical 'professionals'. I am disgusted with the way America's health care is anyways and to feel like an income check to them so much so that they want to control my labor for it? I just think that Obstetric care pendulum has swung too much to the side of technology and thrown away how natural it really is. Women have been giving birth for thousands of years. Most of this medical technology is new, only in the last 20-50 years. Just something to ponder. I'll accept any and all criticism.
weekend pics
Here's Savannah, Patrick, Kourtney & Kevin playing foosball
Kenny & Kiara playing Wii baseball
This is what happens when you have a not expensive digital camera in the dark with candles. Kenny's 8.
Cake made by Savannah:
I also tried using Photoshop elements 6.0 and I do not care for it. It seemed to take my photos and make them 'grainy' looking and I don't know why. I either need to invest in a nicer camera/photoshop combo or go back to microsoft picture it where I know how to use it...blah.
Kenny & Kiara playing Wii baseball
This is what happens when you have a not expensive digital camera in the dark with candles. Kenny's 8.
Cake made by Savannah:
I also tried using Photoshop elements 6.0 and I do not care for it. It seemed to take my photos and make them 'grainy' looking and I don't know why. I either need to invest in a nicer camera/photoshop combo or go back to microsoft picture it where I know how to use it...blah.Chicken Wing Dip
This is my most favorite. So delish. You can adjust the heat level by how much hot sauce you put in to it.
Ingredients: 2 pkg Cream cheese (btw-don't use low fat, it doesn't turn out as well!)
large can chicken (or 1-2 med chicken breasts, cooked, chopped/shredded)
Buffalo wing sauce (some people use franks red hot, but i prefer the wing sauce)
Bleu Cheese (optional)
Mozzarella and/or Cheddar (your preference)
Tortillas, crackers, celery for dipping
You can either layer this dip, or mix it all together. I like the layering, but it gets mixed up either way. I start by spreading the cream cheese in the bottom of a 9x9 pan (or is it 8x8?) Then I spread some bleu cheese over that. I probably use 4 tbsp, but you can leave it out if you wish. In another bowl, mix chicken and hot sauce. The hotter you want the dip, the more sauce you add. I usually use 1/3 of the bottle, sometimes more. Then spread the chicken/sauce mix on top of the cream cheese. Then sprinkle with cheese. Not a lot, just to give it some gooey-ness. I bake it at 350 for about 30 mins or until it starts bubbling, but the cheese isn't brown on top yet. I love this with tortillas and celery. C'mon you know they always give you bleu cheese and celery with your wings! Mmm Mmm!
Not a feminist
Lately, dealing with so many issues around me I've been thinking about a woman's role in the world, life, marriage, etc. I know I'll tick some people off, but I think I'm an anti-feminist. Does that make me a masculinist? ha that's not even a word.
Anyway, I used to say that there was no need for me to go to college, all I really wanted to do was get married and have babies. (Oh how quaint, redneck, country, old-school, old-fashioned, stupid, pathetic, ___insert word of choice here) But, I loved babies and boys so much, it made sense in my mind at 15. I am thrilled to have gone to school and receive a degree, albeit a useless one. I learned so much, about life, about myself, about so many, many things, it really was wonderful. And my psychology has helped me deal with life and clients and even my husband. ;)
I have no problem with women having jobs, while having babies and what not. My problem is when they start losing priorities and their home, their marriage, their children suffer because of it. Women these days want it all, they are told they want it all, they are told they need it all. They are told they are oppressed and will never have power or be anytthing until they have it all, they rise to the top, they overcome, and all that jazz. But then the choices they made earlier suffer. If you choose to have a husband and family than that should always be your first priority. Sadly, so many people, men and women are more concerned what the world thinks about them than their own families. They make their families suffer so they can succeed in the business world or society or financially or whatever it may be.
I know that many people do not think like me, at least anymore. They would call this 'June Cleaver' and stupid. I made the choice to have a husband, I made the choice to have a baby and to me, they are my first priorities. While I am staying home, I think it's my "job" to have a clean home, nutritious meals prepared, stimulating/educating my child, adn to keep myself healthy/fit to take care of my family. If I choose to work outside the home, which may be necessary soon, I will find something that will allow me to do so without taxing me so much that I can't give to my family and home, and not something that will have to 'come home' with me when the work day is done. That's taking away from my family if I do. I know, I'm on thin ice here with many people. They think it's foolishness.
So, then last night I was reading Kian a Bible story from his baby Bible. I found it in his bookshelf and said, I should read him a sotry every night (they're short 2 paragraph stories). So last night was about God creating Eve. Then I got in the car today and found my "Women of the Bible" cd and popped it in for something different. It was the story of Eve. No, I'm not to the part yet about her giving Adam the forbidden fruit-that's another story in itself, a lesson I suppose. The passage was: God created Adam to take care of all the animals and all other creations (plants, trees, waters, etc.) and since he was lonely God created Eve as a helper to Adam. As A Helper. Adam's job was to take care of things and Eve was to help. It wasn't that Adam and Eve were to divide responsibilities equally, it wasn't that Eve was to take care of things and Adam help. Eve was the helper.
Oh how 1950's right? Anyways. I just thought how far society strays. Come to your own conclusions. I'll get off my soapbox now. I just felt reaffirmed in my decisions about my priorities and family right now. Especvially since I get all kinds of questions about why I'm not working, don't I want to work? Aren't I wasting my degree? Don't I get bored? Doesn't Kian need socialization? Don't I need socialization? Aren't I wasting my brain? and the list goes on. Answers: No one ever wants to work, we just have to. I use my child psychology/development, and education courses daily. Bored is a subjective term, sometimes I feel bored, but there's always things to do. I take Kian to visit friends and babies and kids sometimes-but he is only awake for a couple hours before napping again anyways. I get socialization with family and friends and my hubby. Sometimes I feel like I'm wasting my brain, but it's just being used differently. Well, I just had some thoughts banging around in my brain and felt like getting them out. Life's never easy, no matter what we choose anyway.
Anyway, I used to say that there was no need for me to go to college, all I really wanted to do was get married and have babies. (Oh how quaint, redneck, country, old-school, old-fashioned, stupid, pathetic, ___insert word of choice here) But, I loved babies and boys so much, it made sense in my mind at 15. I am thrilled to have gone to school and receive a degree, albeit a useless one. I learned so much, about life, about myself, about so many, many things, it really was wonderful. And my psychology has helped me deal with life and clients and even my husband. ;)
I have no problem with women having jobs, while having babies and what not. My problem is when they start losing priorities and their home, their marriage, their children suffer because of it. Women these days want it all, they are told they want it all, they are told they need it all. They are told they are oppressed and will never have power or be anytthing until they have it all, they rise to the top, they overcome, and all that jazz. But then the choices they made earlier suffer. If you choose to have a husband and family than that should always be your first priority. Sadly, so many people, men and women are more concerned what the world thinks about them than their own families. They make their families suffer so they can succeed in the business world or society or financially or whatever it may be.
I know that many people do not think like me, at least anymore. They would call this 'June Cleaver' and stupid. I made the choice to have a husband, I made the choice to have a baby and to me, they are my first priorities. While I am staying home, I think it's my "job" to have a clean home, nutritious meals prepared, stimulating/educating my child, adn to keep myself healthy/fit to take care of my family. If I choose to work outside the home, which may be necessary soon, I will find something that will allow me to do so without taxing me so much that I can't give to my family and home, and not something that will have to 'come home' with me when the work day is done. That's taking away from my family if I do. I know, I'm on thin ice here with many people. They think it's foolishness.
So, then last night I was reading Kian a Bible story from his baby Bible. I found it in his bookshelf and said, I should read him a sotry every night (they're short 2 paragraph stories). So last night was about God creating Eve. Then I got in the car today and found my "Women of the Bible" cd and popped it in for something different. It was the story of Eve. No, I'm not to the part yet about her giving Adam the forbidden fruit-that's another story in itself, a lesson I suppose. The passage was: God created Adam to take care of all the animals and all other creations (plants, trees, waters, etc.) and since he was lonely God created Eve as a helper to Adam. As A Helper. Adam's job was to take care of things and Eve was to help. It wasn't that Adam and Eve were to divide responsibilities equally, it wasn't that Eve was to take care of things and Adam help. Eve was the helper.
Oh how 1950's right? Anyways. I just thought how far society strays. Come to your own conclusions. I'll get off my soapbox now. I just felt reaffirmed in my decisions about my priorities and family right now. Especvially since I get all kinds of questions about why I'm not working, don't I want to work? Aren't I wasting my degree? Don't I get bored? Doesn't Kian need socialization? Don't I need socialization? Aren't I wasting my brain? and the list goes on. Answers: No one ever wants to work, we just have to. I use my child psychology/development, and education courses daily. Bored is a subjective term, sometimes I feel bored, but there's always things to do. I take Kian to visit friends and babies and kids sometimes-but he is only awake for a couple hours before napping again anyways. I get socialization with family and friends and my hubby. Sometimes I feel like I'm wasting my brain, but it's just being used differently. Well, I just had some thoughts banging around in my brain and felt like getting them out. Life's never easy, no matter what we choose anyway.
Tired Tuesday--and pictures
Something's gotta give here. And soon. I know this teething thing is painful, but wouldn't it be better to sleep through it? I don't have a drop of baby tylenol in the house. Nor do I have baby orajel. I know, I'm a moron. I don't understand how these top teeth haven't made their way through yet. I can see them from every angle, it's like saran wrap is covering them, that's all. Last night, Kian wouldn't even go to bed. He usually does that fine. We brush his little teeth, read a story or two, then I rock him for a bit in the dark, then put him in bed. He sometimes fusses for abut 20 seconds then he's out. Last night he just kept screaming. I'd rock him, he'd be almost asleep, put him in, scream. I tried letting him cry for a bit, but it turned into hysterical screaming, which is unusual. He finally fell asleep on Kevin's lap, watching TV at 9 pm-over an hour after I tried putting him to bed. Sigh, big sigh. And I have another plugged duct. Oh it's way fun today.
So instead here's some pictures of Kian and Aunt NeeNee from Superbowl, in his adorable football sweater:
So instead here's some pictures of Kian and Aunt NeeNee from Superbowl, in his adorable football sweater:
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