I've said it once and I'll say it again. I have a problem... the magazine subscriptions have taken over my life! I'm slowly weeding my way through the magazines and the articles. Tossing the ones that aren't worth the trouble and hanging on to the articles and magazines that have a nuggets of wisdom or articles of value. Goodbye Time magazine - into the recycling bin with you... I'm getting my news from the internet... Food and Wine? I just can't let you go.
One of my work colleagues had a birthday today. I agreed to make a cake for the occasion. He's not much of a dessert kind of guy. But he's a big fan of tres leches cake. (A Mexican cake with three milks). I am also a fan of tres leches cake. It's one of my favorites. I've tried my hand at a few recipes and had one on file that was a favorite... one with a bit of cinnamon and spice to it. But then, as I was flipping through my latest delivery of Food and Wine Magazine there it was. A new recipe for tres leches cake. And just by reading the recipe I KNEW it was the real deal.
Last night, after Sweet Pea drifted off to sleep I got to work making the cake. It did not disappoint. Flavors of cinnamon, vanilla, and cloves. Just the right amount of saturation with the "milks". The cake absorbed the mixture nicely and held together without getting sloppy or mushy. The strawberries as a garnish to the recipe were an excellent touch... the cake and the berries brought of the flavors of one another.
One of my co-workers has given up all foods with flour for Lent. Today, he caved and had a piece of cake. He then confided that my cake was officially "sinful" - I really hope I don't go to Hell for causing him to cave on his convictions. But the cake really was amazing, if I do say so myself. Not only amazing - but amazingly uncomplicated and relatively quick to make.
But don't take my word for it - I've decided to share the recipe with you! You can find it here. I hope you enjoy it. Make sure it let me know if you decide to try your hand at it. Since Lovey is out of town he missed out on the deliciousness. He's quite disappointed... something tells me I'll be making this cake one more time this week. I'm not complaining. More cake for me!
What are your favorite recipes to make? I'd love to know!
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Thursday, March 17, 2011
The "Cry-It-Out" Question
We're quickly approaching Sweet Pea's one-year milestone. The time has sped by at lightening speed. I'm not quite sure how we've gotten here - perhaps that is because I've been in a zombie-like sleep deprived stupor for most of this past year...
It's been an amazing process to watch Sweet Pea's accomplishments and the growth. First smile. First laugh. First words ("hi". "mama". "hat". "dog". ) Crawling (sort of -- it's more like a scoot... a-la Gollum from "Lord of the Rings"). And now pulling himself to a standing position - which has brought a about a whole new set of challenges that I was hoping to avoid entirely.
As we speak, Sweet Pea (or Not-so-Sweet-Pea, tonight) is up in his crib, pulled into a standing position, and screaming bloody murder. There are no tears. Just a full-on, pissed-off, temper tantrum. Apparently he has decided that it's NOT time to go to bed - even though he was sound asleep in my arms for about an hour before I decided to take him upstairs... the minute the words "bed-time" escaped my lips - I had a "REVOLT on my hands!
I've read numerous books. I've talked to my doctors. I've discussed with my family & friends. And it's 50/50 about how to handle the situation. Half of the parties polled are firm believers in the "cry-it-out" method. The other half believe this to be torture and cruelty... "Why don't you just pick up the poor little guy and give him what he needs?" I really don't know the answer here. (and apparently whichever way we go, half of everyone will disagree.)
This is night number two of "Baby Bootcamp" (stole that phrase from a friend - can't claim it as my own -- props to J.J.) And tonight is no better than the last. And just when I feel sorry enough to rescue him from his cage of misery and pick him up... the kiddo gives me a grin and a hug and his happy little bouncy dance... and I think to myself. ("Self -- this kid is totally playing you -- who's the BOSS here?") And he gets set back into the crib again. Pretty soon he's going to stop screaming and go to sleep... right? Right? Otherwise I'm going to have to get noise-canceling headphones - because the sad little sounds are making me feel terrible. I don't think I'm up for Mommy-of-the- Year for the hell I'm putting my kid through.
Here's the worst part. We TOTALLY had this under control about two months ago. Before he was able to stand up in his crib. We'd done the baby boot camp and went through the screaming and came out the other side with a kiddo that understood that bedtime was sleepy time. And when we put him in his crib he laid down and happily went to sleep. I was SO IMPRESSED with Lovey and me. We were bedtime PROFESSIONALS. And then came teething. And a really bad cold. And an ear infection. And a really, really miserable kid who needed love and snuggles...
And now we're paying the price and starting all over again. Forty-six minutes later and no end in sight to the screaming. Awesome.
So how do YOU handle the bedtime routine. Snuggles or Tough Love? Anyone have the perfect answer?
--bf
It's been an amazing process to watch Sweet Pea's accomplishments and the growth. First smile. First laugh. First words ("hi". "mama". "hat". "dog". ) Crawling (sort of -- it's more like a scoot... a-la Gollum from "Lord of the Rings"). And now pulling himself to a standing position - which has brought a about a whole new set of challenges that I was hoping to avoid entirely.
As we speak, Sweet Pea (or Not-so-Sweet-Pea, tonight) is up in his crib, pulled into a standing position, and screaming bloody murder. There are no tears. Just a full-on, pissed-off, temper tantrum. Apparently he has decided that it's NOT time to go to bed - even though he was sound asleep in my arms for about an hour before I decided to take him upstairs... the minute the words "bed-time" escaped my lips - I had a "REVOLT on my hands!
I've read numerous books. I've talked to my doctors. I've discussed with my family & friends. And it's 50/50 about how to handle the situation. Half of the parties polled are firm believers in the "cry-it-out" method. The other half believe this to be torture and cruelty... "Why don't you just pick up the poor little guy and give him what he needs?" I really don't know the answer here. (and apparently whichever way we go, half of everyone will disagree.)
This is night number two of "Baby Bootcamp" (stole that phrase from a friend - can't claim it as my own -- props to J.J.) And tonight is no better than the last. And just when I feel sorry enough to rescue him from his cage of misery and pick him up... the kiddo gives me a grin and a hug and his happy little bouncy dance... and I think to myself. ("Self -- this kid is totally playing you -- who's the BOSS here?") And he gets set back into the crib again. Pretty soon he's going to stop screaming and go to sleep... right? Right? Otherwise I'm going to have to get noise-canceling headphones - because the sad little sounds are making me feel terrible. I don't think I'm up for Mommy-of-the- Year for the hell I'm putting my kid through.
Here's the worst part. We TOTALLY had this under control about two months ago. Before he was able to stand up in his crib. We'd done the baby boot camp and went through the screaming and came out the other side with a kiddo that understood that bedtime was sleepy time. And when we put him in his crib he laid down and happily went to sleep. I was SO IMPRESSED with Lovey and me. We were bedtime PROFESSIONALS. And then came teething. And a really bad cold. And an ear infection. And a really, really miserable kid who needed love and snuggles...
And now we're paying the price and starting all over again. Forty-six minutes later and no end in sight to the screaming. Awesome.
So how do YOU handle the bedtime routine. Snuggles or Tough Love? Anyone have the perfect answer?
--bf
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Latest Project
I've not posted in a few days, but it's not because I'm slacking off... I've actually been quite busy! Sweet Pea is growing like a weed and is need of some new threads. I've been busy sewing gifts for kids of friends and family, and Sweet Pea has been getting the short end of the stick. The last few nights I've been busy sewing (and unsewing and recrafting) pants for the little guy. I am so happy with my results.
Yeah, that's right. I am awesome. (It only took me about 4 more hours than it should have...)
For those of you wanting to sew a pair of kids pants, yourself... I would suggest the following book by Emma Hardy. I've enjoyed many of the patterns. The pants above are not in the book. But I did use one of her girl-specific patterns and rework it so that it is boy appropriate. I'm quite proud of myself for figuring out how to make changes and work through challenges. I added a cuff to the bottom of the pants that can be rolled up (as seen in the photo) or unrolled to give my kiddo extra inches as he grows. Simple stuff for all you sewing experts, but for a girl who is teaching herself.... PURE AWESOMENESS. (forgive me. i am just very excited.) And since there are so few boy-patterns out there I am pleased that these turned out so cute!
What I like most about this pattern is the roominess in the butt. There is plenty of room for Sweet Pea's giant cloth diaper butt. Many other times we have to buy a size up just so they fit over his bum! Not so much with these... there is room to grow and move! I can't wait to make a few more pairs!!!
I think I might get started tonight. After Glee, of course.
-bf
Yeah, that's right. I am awesome. (It only took me about 4 more hours than it should have...)
For those of you wanting to sew a pair of kids pants, yourself... I would suggest the following book by Emma Hardy. I've enjoyed many of the patterns. The pants above are not in the book. But I did use one of her girl-specific patterns and rework it so that it is boy appropriate. I'm quite proud of myself for figuring out how to make changes and work through challenges. I added a cuff to the bottom of the pants that can be rolled up (as seen in the photo) or unrolled to give my kiddo extra inches as he grows. Simple stuff for all you sewing experts, but for a girl who is teaching herself.... PURE AWESOMENESS. (forgive me. i am just very excited.) And since there are so few boy-patterns out there I am pleased that these turned out so cute!
What I like most about this pattern is the roominess in the butt. There is plenty of room for Sweet Pea's giant cloth diaper butt. Many other times we have to buy a size up just so they fit over his bum! Not so much with these... there is room to grow and move! I can't wait to make a few more pairs!!!
I think I might get started tonight. After Glee, of course.
-bf
Friday, March 11, 2011
A Shout Out to Single Parents
Lovey has been out of town this week. Back in our "pre Sweet Pea" days, I would look forward to the times when he was away for a trip. It meant staying up late, watching all the chick flicks I wanted. An after-work happy hour or two. And the whole bed to myself!! Sleeping free of the snoring and the kicking and the blanket stealing... (ok, I might be stretching the truth a little here - apparently I am the blanket stealer... the rest of the story I stand behind).
Life is a bit more complicated these days when Lovey is on the road. In addition to a full-time job, I have to find ways to get Sweet Pea to and from daycare, complete with all of his daycare "stuff" (cloth diapers, food, milk, etc). Then, once we are home for the evening, find time to figure out a plan for dinner, bathe and snuggle and nurse Sweet Pea and attempt to keep the house in some semblance of an order. It's a tough job when there are two of us here to tackle it... it near impossible when it's just me.
So as I reflect upon another week of single-motherhood... I'm struck by two things. First - that I appreciate Lovey (and I don't tell him this enough). He's a team player. A great dad. A wonderful husband. I am so lucky to have a partner that is really and truly in every sense A PARTNER. We are in this together. For better or for worse. And I'm better with him. (he's also better with me.)
The second realization came to me because of the circumstances of this week. Mid-week I encountered my first real "illness" since Sweet Pea arrived. I've had a cold here and there... but this was an all-out I. AM. SICK. As Sweet Pea and I laid on the couch together, wrapped in blankets and surrounded by pillows... I considered myself lucky that my kiddo is exhausted from daycare by the end of the day and that he loves his mama and really just wants to snuggle any chance he gets. But as I laid there with the heating pad on my back and neck... feeling sorry for myself and my circumstances... I wondered... How do single parents DO this?
And the answer is that perhaps they don't. I was laying on the couch feeling miserable and sorry for myself and really wishing that my mom lived closer so that she could come help me. We have great neighbors and Lovey's family nearby. And great friends, too. But asking for help felt so...WEAK. But perhaps it's the NOT asking for help when I really, truly need it that makes me WEAK. Being part of a community means being INTERdependent. And being interdependent - being able to give AND receive help - is much more difficult than going it alone. Being able to admit that I can't do it all myself is much more challenging than pretending that I've got it all under control. As much as I like to think of myself as "superwoman" - nothing could be further from the truth. I'm doing my best to hold it together and some days I'm hanging on by a thread.
Maybe single parents have determined that they can't go it alone. And they know how to ask for help and WHO to ask for help when they really need it. However they make it work - it appears I have a thing or two to learn from them.
Sweet Pea is (hopefully) in bed for the night, I'm finally feeling somewhat back to normal, and Lovey is due home soon. Looks like I better get to work. I've got some cleaning to do - apparently, a tiny tornado went through my house this week! And maybe while I'm at it I can figure out something for dinner that doesn't come in "cereal box" form...
I'm interested to know if it's easy for any of you to ask for help when you need it - and who do you feel comfortable asking? Do you have your "go to" people? Or does it depend on the situation?
--bf
Life is a bit more complicated these days when Lovey is on the road. In addition to a full-time job, I have to find ways to get Sweet Pea to and from daycare, complete with all of his daycare "stuff" (cloth diapers, food, milk, etc). Then, once we are home for the evening, find time to figure out a plan for dinner, bathe and snuggle and nurse Sweet Pea and attempt to keep the house in some semblance of an order. It's a tough job when there are two of us here to tackle it... it near impossible when it's just me.
So as I reflect upon another week of single-motherhood... I'm struck by two things. First - that I appreciate Lovey (and I don't tell him this enough). He's a team player. A great dad. A wonderful husband. I am so lucky to have a partner that is really and truly in every sense A PARTNER. We are in this together. For better or for worse. And I'm better with him. (he's also better with me.)
The second realization came to me because of the circumstances of this week. Mid-week I encountered my first real "illness" since Sweet Pea arrived. I've had a cold here and there... but this was an all-out I. AM. SICK. As Sweet Pea and I laid on the couch together, wrapped in blankets and surrounded by pillows... I considered myself lucky that my kiddo is exhausted from daycare by the end of the day and that he loves his mama and really just wants to snuggle any chance he gets. But as I laid there with the heating pad on my back and neck... feeling sorry for myself and my circumstances... I wondered... How do single parents DO this?
And the answer is that perhaps they don't. I was laying on the couch feeling miserable and sorry for myself and really wishing that my mom lived closer so that she could come help me. We have great neighbors and Lovey's family nearby. And great friends, too. But asking for help felt so...WEAK. But perhaps it's the NOT asking for help when I really, truly need it that makes me WEAK. Being part of a community means being INTERdependent. And being interdependent - being able to give AND receive help - is much more difficult than going it alone. Being able to admit that I can't do it all myself is much more challenging than pretending that I've got it all under control. As much as I like to think of myself as "superwoman" - nothing could be further from the truth. I'm doing my best to hold it together and some days I'm hanging on by a thread.
Maybe single parents have determined that they can't go it alone. And they know how to ask for help and WHO to ask for help when they really need it. However they make it work - it appears I have a thing or two to learn from them.
Sweet Pea is (hopefully) in bed for the night, I'm finally feeling somewhat back to normal, and Lovey is due home soon. Looks like I better get to work. I've got some cleaning to do - apparently, a tiny tornado went through my house this week! And maybe while I'm at it I can figure out something for dinner that doesn't come in "cereal box" form...
I'm interested to know if it's easy for any of you to ask for help when you need it - and who do you feel comfortable asking? Do you have your "go to" people? Or does it depend on the situation?
--bf
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
One of my writing inspirations
From a young age I have loved reading. My mom always read to me every night before bedtime. By the time I was in 2nd grade I was reading "Little House on the Prairie books to myself. While other kids were busy playing outside in the summer - baseball, kickball, hide and seek - I had my nose stuck in a book. While I've learned to embrace my athletic side... (in my pre-Sweet Pea life I completed a couple marathons, sprint triathlons, and biked to work when the weather is nice). Not much has changed regarding reading. I am an avid reader.
I have also been writing since a young age. THIS I also blame on my mother. In third grade I had TERRIBLE penmanship. I wasn't really too keen on the cursive thing. My grade school made a big deal about it. Sloppy penmanship was not acceptable. (Looking back now, I see myself as a bit of a trend-setter. Turns out I was right - there really isn't a need for cursive after all! So THERE Ms. Roy!!!) Due to the school's high expectations regarding penmanship, my mom laid down the law. I would need to spend time EVERY DAY of the summer working on my penmanship. (she was a bit of a slave-driver). She came up with some possible themes for stories. I could write about whatever I wanted. But it needed to be neat enough for her to read it. I actually had fun writing the stories! A number of years ago, I decided that those stories weren't really worth hanging on to - so I tossed them. It was a poor decision and I've regretted my lapse in mental judgment ever since. But in those first years of reading and writing... a love for the craft was born.
While I'm still working hard to perfect my "craft". I aspire to some day make a career - or a career of sorts out of writing. I thought I would take a few moments to share my favorite author with you. He inspires me to continue to tell my stories and to keep plugging away at my prose.
I first came across Michael Perry when I was hanging out at the Tattered Cover in Denver, Colorado. It was a lazy Saturday and I was browsing through the "New in Hardcover" section. I didn't have the intention to purchase... back then I was the type of girl who borrowed books from the library or shopped the bargain book section. Too many books and too little time - there was NO NEED to go hog wild and spend top dollar on a new hardcover book!
I happened to pick up a BookSense 76 pamphlet. (Looks like the group is now called Indie Bound) This organization is a group of independent booksellers (the Tattered Cover is one) who recommend books that they are LOVING. On the list was a little known author by the name of Michael Perry. His new book Population 485: Meeting Your Neighbors One Siren at a Time was getting rave reviews. The book looked intriguing and it was about Wisconsin (my homeland). I decided in a heartbeat that I needed to have it and that I would (GASP) pay full price and give er a read.
Micheal is one of the most poetic, insightful, humorous writers I have come across. The book spoke to me in ways that no other book has. At times I was laughing, at times I was crying. At times I was doing both... while I was on the commuter train to work... there were a few strange looks.
I had finally found someone who experienced the Mid-west as I had. And had found humor in the craziness of the small-town life. He was able to express how communities are formed over the emergencies that occur... He reminded me of home - and made me appreciate where I came from... in ways that I didn't think were possible.
This book is one of the few books I go back to again and again... and again. Michael has written a few other books since Population 485 hit the scene. I'm also a big fan of COOP: A year of Poultry, Pigs, and Parenting. I appreciate this book for his sentimental look at becoming a dad... I was reading it at a time when we were "Sweet Pea Free" -- but I've also come back to this book again with the new eyes of being a mom. It's just as beautiful as it was the first time I read it - but I appreciate it in different ways, now.
Some day I hope to be as great of a writer as Mike. Until then, I make every attempt to attend his book readings when he graces us with his presence in Denver... and I continue to wait (somewhat impatiently) for his next book. And as I wait, I continue to read and re-read his books in print... in the hopes that some day my "writer's voice" will be half as beautiful as his.
If you've never read anything by Michael Perry. I encourage you to do so. Start with Population 485. I don't think you'll be disappointed.
--bf
I have also been writing since a young age. THIS I also blame on my mother. In third grade I had TERRIBLE penmanship. I wasn't really too keen on the cursive thing. My grade school made a big deal about it. Sloppy penmanship was not acceptable. (Looking back now, I see myself as a bit of a trend-setter. Turns out I was right - there really isn't a need for cursive after all! So THERE Ms. Roy!!!) Due to the school's high expectations regarding penmanship, my mom laid down the law. I would need to spend time EVERY DAY of the summer working on my penmanship. (she was a bit of a slave-driver). She came up with some possible themes for stories. I could write about whatever I wanted. But it needed to be neat enough for her to read it. I actually had fun writing the stories! A number of years ago, I decided that those stories weren't really worth hanging on to - so I tossed them. It was a poor decision and I've regretted my lapse in mental judgment ever since. But in those first years of reading and writing... a love for the craft was born.
While I'm still working hard to perfect my "craft". I aspire to some day make a career - or a career of sorts out of writing. I thought I would take a few moments to share my favorite author with you. He inspires me to continue to tell my stories and to keep plugging away at my prose.
I first came across Michael Perry when I was hanging out at the Tattered Cover in Denver, Colorado. It was a lazy Saturday and I was browsing through the "New in Hardcover" section. I didn't have the intention to purchase... back then I was the type of girl who borrowed books from the library or shopped the bargain book section. Too many books and too little time - there was NO NEED to go hog wild and spend top dollar on a new hardcover book!
I happened to pick up a BookSense 76 pamphlet. (Looks like the group is now called Indie Bound) This organization is a group of independent booksellers (the Tattered Cover is one) who recommend books that they are LOVING. On the list was a little known author by the name of Michael Perry. His new book Population 485: Meeting Your Neighbors One Siren at a Time was getting rave reviews. The book looked intriguing and it was about Wisconsin (my homeland). I decided in a heartbeat that I needed to have it and that I would (GASP) pay full price and give er a read.
Micheal is one of the most poetic, insightful, humorous writers I have come across. The book spoke to me in ways that no other book has. At times I was laughing, at times I was crying. At times I was doing both... while I was on the commuter train to work... there were a few strange looks.
I had finally found someone who experienced the Mid-west as I had. And had found humor in the craziness of the small-town life. He was able to express how communities are formed over the emergencies that occur... He reminded me of home - and made me appreciate where I came from... in ways that I didn't think were possible.
This book is one of the few books I go back to again and again... and again. Michael has written a few other books since Population 485 hit the scene. I'm also a big fan of COOP: A year of Poultry, Pigs, and Parenting. I appreciate this book for his sentimental look at becoming a dad... I was reading it at a time when we were "Sweet Pea Free" -- but I've also come back to this book again with the new eyes of being a mom. It's just as beautiful as it was the first time I read it - but I appreciate it in different ways, now.
Some day I hope to be as great of a writer as Mike. Until then, I make every attempt to attend his book readings when he graces us with his presence in Denver... and I continue to wait (somewhat impatiently) for his next book. And as I wait, I continue to read and re-read his books in print... in the hopes that some day my "writer's voice" will be half as beautiful as his.
If you've never read anything by Michael Perry. I encourage you to do so. Start with Population 485. I don't think you'll be disappointed.
--bf
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
An exciting find... for the designer in all of us
I've mentioned this before. But, I'm going to put it out there again for all the word to read. Yesterday I mentioned that I have issues with magazine subscriptions. I also seem to have issues with saying "NO" to purchasing books (cookbooks, and sewing books), and I seem to have issues when it comes to fabric. I love fabric. When I see fabric I love - I just want to buy it. Even if I don't have a project in mind. So I'm really better off just not looking for fabric at all. But I just. can't. help. it!
Yesterday I happened upon a very cool website And now I'm in even bigger trouble. Have you ever heard of Spoonflower? If you love fabric... or if you are a graphic designer... or if you have a little of both lurking somewhere inside of you... Then you are going to really LOVE this website.
It's a website where you can upload or create your own designs. And create custom fabric. You can then order your custom designed fabric in a variety of fabric choices. Some of the choices are even organic (for those of you who need to get your granola on...)! There is a sample pack of the fabric swatches that will cost you $1.00 to order and have shipped. Mine is on the way. The price per yard of fabric is a little higher than ordering a yard of fabric from an online store - but it isn't exactly outrageous. I think it would be worth the expense to be able to order something completely original, completely mind, and something that can't be purchased off a bolt at Joann's.
I am SO excited about the opportunity to create my own fabric that I can hardly stand it! I don't even know where to start. And, for those of us who don't know where to start - the website even has regularly scheduled contests - to give you a theme or direction in your designs/ creations.
Check out the site and tell me what you think! And - please let me know if any of you create and upload any of your own fabric designs. I'll be interested to see them.
In the meantime, I'm going to get working on some of my own ideas.
--bf
Yesterday I happened upon a very cool website And now I'm in even bigger trouble. Have you ever heard of Spoonflower? If you love fabric... or if you are a graphic designer... or if you have a little of both lurking somewhere inside of you... Then you are going to really LOVE this website.
It's a website where you can upload or create your own designs. And create custom fabric. You can then order your custom designed fabric in a variety of fabric choices. Some of the choices are even organic (for those of you who need to get your granola on...)! There is a sample pack of the fabric swatches that will cost you $1.00 to order and have shipped. Mine is on the way. The price per yard of fabric is a little higher than ordering a yard of fabric from an online store - but it isn't exactly outrageous. I think it would be worth the expense to be able to order something completely original, completely mind, and something that can't be purchased off a bolt at Joann's.
I am SO excited about the opportunity to create my own fabric that I can hardly stand it! I don't even know where to start. And, for those of us who don't know where to start - the website even has regularly scheduled contests - to give you a theme or direction in your designs/ creations.
Check out the site and tell me what you think! And - please let me know if any of you create and upload any of your own fabric designs. I'll be interested to see them.
In the meantime, I'm going to get working on some of my own ideas.
--bf
Monday, March 7, 2011
Keeping Kids Safe from Sexual Abuse
I have a magazine subscription addiction. It's not pretty... Lovey would agree. We have magazines scattered all over our house. On my nightstand. One the living room coffee table. In the bathroom... in ALL the bathrooms. In my purse and in my work bag. It's those darn United miles that I need to spend down . And now I just can't stop. The good news in all of this? I have made a commitment to work my way through the piles and then recycle or re-gift the magazines that I'm through reading. No more hanging on to the magazines that I might get to... someday. And I'm actually making some progress!
I recently participated in a "groupon" or was it a "living social" deal for a subscription to 5280 magazine for $10.00 for the year. Then I got another offer to add an additional year for the same price. Done and Done. While this Denver-based magazine is sometimes a little "out of touch" with those of us who actually WORK for a living... (I mean, REALLY, who is actually buying the $430 suede and nylon Prada sneakers you put in your men's fashion section...) I can usually find an article or two of worth in every magazine. Sometimes I find a nugget that might be relevant to my work life. And sometimes it's an article of value for my personal life. Other times it's just a really great restaurant that I add to the list of places I'd like to eat some day... you know, when I actually have time to go on a date night again.
This month's magazine has a fascinating article that every parent should read. It's horrifying. Scary. Relevant. And packed with information that you should know to keep your kids safe.
This article discusses a preschool here in Denver that was hit with allegations of child sex abuse. Something that no parent wants to even consider. But guess what? By not considering the possibility - you could be leaving your kids exposed to a sex offender. I've included a link to the article - but feel it necessary to re-iterate a few of the high points. In case you don't have time to read the entire article, here are the cliff notes. Forgive me for pretty much quoting the article verbatim. This information is extremely important and I want to make sure I don't take it out of context. All credit goes to the article's author Lindsey B. Koehler.
So -- what can you do? How can you be informed? What can you teach your children so that they are informed? The article lists 10 "Body Safety Rules" from author, Feather Berkower. She wrote the book Off Limits: A Parent's Guide to Keeping Kids Safe from Sexual Abuse. The book is available here.
Again - forgive my copying straight from the article - but here are the rules you need to teach your children. Word for word.
I know that this is a scary topic. I know that as parents this is not something we want to consider, or discuss... but it's really important that we're all aware. It's really important that we're all talking about these issues and asking questions -- talk to your kids teachers, daycare providers, babysitters... Even though the topic is uncomfortable, by asking questions of the people who spend time with your kids -- you let them know that you are aware... that you are paying attention.
A person with the potential to sexually abuse your child does not want to get caught. They want to continue abusing. Kids and parents who are uninformed make better targets.
Be informed. Be aware. Spend time with your children. And talk to your children about these and other issues that matter and can keep them safe!
I hope you all find this information (and the link to the 5280 article) as helpful and as informative as I did...
-bf
I recently participated in a "groupon" or was it a "living social" deal for a subscription to 5280 magazine for $10.00 for the year. Then I got another offer to add an additional year for the same price. Done and Done. While this Denver-based magazine is sometimes a little "out of touch" with those of us who actually WORK for a living... (I mean, REALLY, who is actually buying the $430 suede and nylon Prada sneakers you put in your men's fashion section...) I can usually find an article or two of worth in every magazine. Sometimes I find a nugget that might be relevant to my work life. And sometimes it's an article of value for my personal life. Other times it's just a really great restaurant that I add to the list of places I'd like to eat some day... you know, when I actually have time to go on a date night again.
This month's magazine has a fascinating article that every parent should read. It's horrifying. Scary. Relevant. And packed with information that you should know to keep your kids safe.
This article discusses a preschool here in Denver that was hit with allegations of child sex abuse. Something that no parent wants to even consider. But guess what? By not considering the possibility - you could be leaving your kids exposed to a sex offender. I've included a link to the article - but feel it necessary to re-iterate a few of the high points. In case you don't have time to read the entire article, here are the cliff notes. Forgive me for pretty much quoting the article verbatim. This information is extremely important and I want to make sure I don't take it out of context. All credit goes to the article's author Lindsey B. Koehler.
- By age 18 - about 1 in 3 girls and 1 in 7 boys will be sexually abused.
- More than 20% of children are sexually abused before age eight.
- Up to 50% of sexual offenders are juveniles.
- 96% of child sexual abuse is perpetrated by males.
- The average pedophile abuses approximately 250 kids.
- The four most common places for child molestation to occur are at school, during sports programs, at religious institutions, and inside homes - the child's or someone else's.
- ANY CHILD CAN BE ABUSED. YOUR CHILD IS MORE VULNERABLE IF YOU ARE:
- uniformed about sex abuse
- not spending time with them
- not asking your them questions or not listening to them
So -- what can you do? How can you be informed? What can you teach your children so that they are informed? The article lists 10 "Body Safety Rules" from author, Feather Berkower. She wrote the book Off Limits: A Parent's Guide to Keeping Kids Safe from Sexual Abuse. The book is available here.
Again - forgive my copying straight from the article - but here are the rules you need to teach your children. Word for word.
- No one is allowed to touch your private body parts, except to help you clean them or if the doctor or nurse needs to examine them. (This includes siblings.)
- You are not allowed to touch someone else's private body parts.
- It is OK to touch your own private body parts as long as you do it in private.
- No one (adult or teenager) is allowed to take pictures of your private body parts or show you pictures of naked people.
- When playing with friends, play with your clothes on.
- You and all of your family members are allowed to have privacy when bathing, dressing, and using the toilet. (model privacy for your children)
- No one is allowed to make you kiss or touch him or her if you don't want to. No one is allowed to kiss or touch you if you don't want him or her to, including relatives. You are allowed to choose whom you kiss and touch and when you kiss and touch other people.
- You have permission to say "NO" and get away if anyone tries to touch your private body parts or tries to break any of your body safety rules. You never have to do what an adult or anyone tells you to do if the person is breaking a body safety rule or making you unsafe.
- If someone tries to or does touch your private body parts, try to get away and then go tell a trusted adult.
- If someone tells you to keep a secret about touching private body parts, tell an adult.
I know that this is a scary topic. I know that as parents this is not something we want to consider, or discuss... but it's really important that we're all aware. It's really important that we're all talking about these issues and asking questions -- talk to your kids teachers, daycare providers, babysitters... Even though the topic is uncomfortable, by asking questions of the people who spend time with your kids -- you let them know that you are aware... that you are paying attention.
A person with the potential to sexually abuse your child does not want to get caught. They want to continue abusing. Kids and parents who are uninformed make better targets.
Be informed. Be aware. Spend time with your children. And talk to your children about these and other issues that matter and can keep them safe!
I hope you all find this information (and the link to the 5280 article) as helpful and as informative as I did...
-bf
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Home is.... Where?
I am feeling torn in two... in so many aspects of my life. It's painful - and I don't even know how to begin to make sense of it.
Work... I enjoy my job. I get to work with fun, creative, intelligent people. It's such a great work environment - on a vibrant, diverse college campus. But when I am there, my heart is really with Sweet Pea. He's growing so fast, and I'm missing the best parts of it. During the week, he wakes up early and is tired and fussy. And at night he's cranky because he's played so hard at daycare. Five days a week, the daycare gets the best of my little one... and I get what's left over. But if there is a sick day, or even if I take a vacation day... I feel guilty that I'm not at work -- because I should be "doing my job." It seems like I just can't find a way to be "present" and just BE where I am.
I know that I'm not cut out to be a full-time stay-at-home mom. I'm pretty sure I would go bonkers. But I sure would like to find a little more work/life balance. You know -- a half-time job that paid me my full-time salary and benefits... (so if you happen to see a magic lamp or a winning lottery ticket just lying around... be sure to send it my way...)
And today, I'm finding it difficult to balance my life in Colorado with my life back home in Wisconsin -- where I was born and raised. Where my entire family still resides. Mom and Dad just spend a little over a week with us. It was such a fantastic time. Sweet Pea just loved being doted on and having loads of attention from Grandma and Grandpa... not to mention hugs, kisses, tickles. Grandma and Grandpa even got to babysit while I went in to work for a few days (... did I mention I feel guilty taking vacation?)
We took my parents back to the airport this afternoon. There were many tears. My mom cried. I cried. (And Sweet Pea has been a bit of a terror ever since we returned to the house. I think he's having to adjust to a grandparent-free house... and he doesn't really like it).
I never used to feel so sad when I left my parents or they left me. But ever since Sweet Pea arrived - I have this overwhelming sadness and guilt about my decision to move to Colorado (and stay). I think that I always had this sense that Colorado would be a "temporary" thing. It would be a fun adventure for a while, but that I would always end up back home. I never expected to fall in love... with the climate, the mountains, the 300 plus days of sunshine, the city... or with Lovey. Or maybe I thought that if I did meet someone while I was here... it would be some nice, Midwestern man who would have no qualms about packing up his life and heading back home with me. Where we would have babies and I would be a full-time stay-at-home mommy.
Life hasn't exactly worked out the way I had envisioned. Two years of grad school in Colorado has turned into 12 years here -- it's gone by in the blink of an eye. Now, I have a career, great friends, a husband who was born and raised here in Colorado...and his wonderful family is here... I really do love what I have here. But there is also this pull -- the life I left behind, the family I left behind back home.
Do you want the awful truth? I am no fan of Wisconsin itself. The winters are FRIGID. Bone-chilling cold. (so cold that on most days your boogers freeze up inside your nose the second you walk outside). From October to May the skies are gray and the land is a combination of brown or white. Seeing the sun is a rarity. Driving over roads covered in snow and ice for months on end isn't my favorite thing, either. When summer rolls around the sun is out, but the air is heavy and muggy. The mosquito is the state bird. The only really great time to be in the state is Autumn. Yep, that's right. A whole two months of Wisconsin blissfulness.
But, it's home. My family lives there. My formative years were spent camping, and fishing, and playing there. It's where I have my roots. My history. I spent most of my summers with my cousins... My grandparents and I spent time on weekends and after school. My parents prioritized family. And I feel very sad and very VERY guilty that Sweet Pea will not know my family in the way that he should. My parents have waited so long to be grandparents... and now that they are, the time they have with Sweet Pea is so very limited. A few days here. A week there... This is due to the choices I have made... to have a life here. Away from.... home? I guess the question is -- where is home? The old saying "Home is Where Your Heart Is" -- doesn't really assist me in figuring this out... my heart is torn. It's in two places... So where is home? The place where I have roots? Or the place that gave me my wings?
And how to I find a way to be at peace with life I'm living now - while I try to figure out where the road leads next?
Work... I enjoy my job. I get to work with fun, creative, intelligent people. It's such a great work environment - on a vibrant, diverse college campus. But when I am there, my heart is really with Sweet Pea. He's growing so fast, and I'm missing the best parts of it. During the week, he wakes up early and is tired and fussy. And at night he's cranky because he's played so hard at daycare. Five days a week, the daycare gets the best of my little one... and I get what's left over. But if there is a sick day, or even if I take a vacation day... I feel guilty that I'm not at work -- because I should be "doing my job." It seems like I just can't find a way to be "present" and just BE where I am.
I know that I'm not cut out to be a full-time stay-at-home mom. I'm pretty sure I would go bonkers. But I sure would like to find a little more work/life balance. You know -- a half-time job that paid me my full-time salary and benefits... (so if you happen to see a magic lamp or a winning lottery ticket just lying around... be sure to send it my way...)
And today, I'm finding it difficult to balance my life in Colorado with my life back home in Wisconsin -- where I was born and raised. Where my entire family still resides. Mom and Dad just spend a little over a week with us. It was such a fantastic time. Sweet Pea just loved being doted on and having loads of attention from Grandma and Grandpa... not to mention hugs, kisses, tickles. Grandma and Grandpa even got to babysit while I went in to work for a few days (... did I mention I feel guilty taking vacation?)
We took my parents back to the airport this afternoon. There were many tears. My mom cried. I cried. (And Sweet Pea has been a bit of a terror ever since we returned to the house. I think he's having to adjust to a grandparent-free house... and he doesn't really like it).
I never used to feel so sad when I left my parents or they left me. But ever since Sweet Pea arrived - I have this overwhelming sadness and guilt about my decision to move to Colorado (and stay). I think that I always had this sense that Colorado would be a "temporary" thing. It would be a fun adventure for a while, but that I would always end up back home. I never expected to fall in love... with the climate, the mountains, the 300 plus days of sunshine, the city... or with Lovey. Or maybe I thought that if I did meet someone while I was here... it would be some nice, Midwestern man who would have no qualms about packing up his life and heading back home with me. Where we would have babies and I would be a full-time stay-at-home mommy.
Life hasn't exactly worked out the way I had envisioned. Two years of grad school in Colorado has turned into 12 years here -- it's gone by in the blink of an eye. Now, I have a career, great friends, a husband who was born and raised here in Colorado...and his wonderful family is here... I really do love what I have here. But there is also this pull -- the life I left behind, the family I left behind back home.
Do you want the awful truth? I am no fan of Wisconsin itself. The winters are FRIGID. Bone-chilling cold. (so cold that on most days your boogers freeze up inside your nose the second you walk outside). From October to May the skies are gray and the land is a combination of brown or white. Seeing the sun is a rarity. Driving over roads covered in snow and ice for months on end isn't my favorite thing, either. When summer rolls around the sun is out, but the air is heavy and muggy. The mosquito is the state bird. The only really great time to be in the state is Autumn. Yep, that's right. A whole two months of Wisconsin blissfulness.
But, it's home. My family lives there. My formative years were spent camping, and fishing, and playing there. It's where I have my roots. My history. I spent most of my summers with my cousins... My grandparents and I spent time on weekends and after school. My parents prioritized family. And I feel very sad and very VERY guilty that Sweet Pea will not know my family in the way that he should. My parents have waited so long to be grandparents... and now that they are, the time they have with Sweet Pea is so very limited. A few days here. A week there... This is due to the choices I have made... to have a life here. Away from.... home? I guess the question is -- where is home? The old saying "Home is Where Your Heart Is" -- doesn't really assist me in figuring this out... my heart is torn. It's in two places... So where is home? The place where I have roots? Or the place that gave me my wings?
And how to I find a way to be at peace with life I'm living now - while I try to figure out where the road leads next?
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Read Across America!
Did you know that tomorrow is Read Across America Day?
It's an important day in schools across our county. An opportunity to focus on the joy of reading with our little ones. Sweet Pea's daycare has invited parents to come in and read their favorite stories to the kiddies -- but since my parents are here for a visit, we'll be reading to Sweet Pea at home.
Read Across America Day falls on the same day as the birth date of Dr. Seuss. My guess is that this date was purposeful - as so many of us grew up falling in love with reading through Dr. Seuss. My personal favorite was the book I Can Read With My Eyes Shut Tight.
I love to read. And I loved to be read to as a child. I am very passionate about books... there are far too many around my home. While some might collect little trinkets or antiques. I collect fabric and books... and books about fabric and sewing. And cookbooks. I collect cookbooks, too. It's a bit embarrassing how many books I own. But of all the bad habits to have... I'd say that having a few too many books is a pretty acceptable bad habit (at least in my book... no pun intended).
I hope to instill a love of reading in Sweet Pea, too. I've been trying to read to him on a regular basis. But the little guy has the attention span of a gnat. Just about the time I'm really getting into a book - he's ready to be done listening and on the move. So - many times we don't sit with a book in front of us. I just pretend to read to him, but making up my own stories and telling them to him... while we walk, while we bake, and while we snuggle.
I'm hoping that as he gets a bit older, he'll appreciate reading and begin to love it as much as I do. And while Dr. Seuss had some great books... here are a few more of my personal favorites that are a "must have" for any kid's library.
Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel. I loved this book - all about him and his steam shovel that got trapped in the hole he dug with it. It's a bit of a long book, but so sweet. I used to love when my mom read it to me. She read me a story every night. (I'm guessing I picked this book often because it took forever to finish... and this meant I was able to stay up longer).
The Giving Tree or any Shel Silverstein book, for that matter. The man had a way with words... and I just enjoy his books so very much! Can't wait to read some of his poems to Sweet Pea!!
And I Mean It Stanley!
My Grandpa's name is Stanley. This book is about a little girl who is trying to do some creative building and is telling Stanly the dog to leave her alone and not cause any trouble. It's such a sweet book and reminds me of my grandpa. The book has a lot of nostalgia. And the illustrations are very fun, too.
I realize you may think that there are quite a few amazing "go to" books missing on this list. But most everyone falls in love with Where the Wild Things Are or 'Twas the Night Before Christmas. I tried to pick the books that I loved and books that many may not have heard about or even had as a part of their childhood.
I hope that some of these books pique your interest, or spur you to dig through some of your own books... so that you not only READ to your kids... but you read them a story that is important to you and TELL them a story of how that book impacted your childhood.
Happy Read Across America Day. Take some time to read tomorrow. Read to your kids... and read something for yourself. Enjoy a book, a magazine article, a newspaper. But celebrate reading!!
I'd love to hear about your favorite childhood books... Anyone want to share? Sweet Pea needs some good reading material!
-bf
It's an important day in schools across our county. An opportunity to focus on the joy of reading with our little ones. Sweet Pea's daycare has invited parents to come in and read their favorite stories to the kiddies -- but since my parents are here for a visit, we'll be reading to Sweet Pea at home.
Read Across America Day falls on the same day as the birth date of Dr. Seuss. My guess is that this date was purposeful - as so many of us grew up falling in love with reading through Dr. Seuss. My personal favorite was the book I Can Read With My Eyes Shut Tight.
I love to read. And I loved to be read to as a child. I am very passionate about books... there are far too many around my home. While some might collect little trinkets or antiques. I collect fabric and books... and books about fabric and sewing. And cookbooks. I collect cookbooks, too. It's a bit embarrassing how many books I own. But of all the bad habits to have... I'd say that having a few too many books is a pretty acceptable bad habit (at least in my book... no pun intended).
I hope to instill a love of reading in Sweet Pea, too. I've been trying to read to him on a regular basis. But the little guy has the attention span of a gnat. Just about the time I'm really getting into a book - he's ready to be done listening and on the move. So - many times we don't sit with a book in front of us. I just pretend to read to him, but making up my own stories and telling them to him... while we walk, while we bake, and while we snuggle.
I'm hoping that as he gets a bit older, he'll appreciate reading and begin to love it as much as I do. And while Dr. Seuss had some great books... here are a few more of my personal favorites that are a "must have" for any kid's library.
Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel. I loved this book - all about him and his steam shovel that got trapped in the hole he dug with it. It's a bit of a long book, but so sweet. I used to love when my mom read it to me. She read me a story every night. (I'm guessing I picked this book often because it took forever to finish... and this meant I was able to stay up longer).
The Giving Tree or any Shel Silverstein book, for that matter. The man had a way with words... and I just enjoy his books so very much! Can't wait to read some of his poems to Sweet Pea!!
And I Mean It Stanley!
My Grandpa's name is Stanley. This book is about a little girl who is trying to do some creative building and is telling Stanly the dog to leave her alone and not cause any trouble. It's such a sweet book and reminds me of my grandpa. The book has a lot of nostalgia. And the illustrations are very fun, too.
I realize you may think that there are quite a few amazing "go to" books missing on this list. But most everyone falls in love with Where the Wild Things Are or 'Twas the Night Before Christmas. I tried to pick the books that I loved and books that many may not have heard about or even had as a part of their childhood.
I hope that some of these books pique your interest, or spur you to dig through some of your own books... so that you not only READ to your kids... but you read them a story that is important to you and TELL them a story of how that book impacted your childhood.
Happy Read Across America Day. Take some time to read tomorrow. Read to your kids... and read something for yourself. Enjoy a book, a magazine article, a newspaper. But celebrate reading!!
I'd love to hear about your favorite childhood books... Anyone want to share? Sweet Pea needs some good reading material!
-bf
Friday, February 25, 2011
Cloth Diapers - the "eco" nomics of it.
A while back I posted on the decision Lovey and I made to cloth diaper Sweet Pea. You can read that post here. We have had a fabulous experience with cloth diapering. We're saving money, we're being environmentally responsible, and Sweet Pea has had a diaper rash free bum. Aside from the environmental and economical benefits of cloth diapering... there is something about a baby with a giant bum - courtesy of cloth diapers that is just. so. cute. Not to mention that cloth diapers themselves have come a long way since the day that my mom was covering my bum in cloth, pins and rubber pants. These days cloth diapers are downright fashionable. I just can't wait until summertime when Sweet Pea will be toddling all over our yard in nothing but his cloth diaper as fashion accessory.
If you don't believe me that this is a new trend... take a look at a new-ish product that Huggies came out with... I'm convinced that they are responding to the cuteness of the cloth diaper craze!
Even though I have RAVED about the benefits (and ease) of cloth diapers, some of my friends continue to be non-believers. I can't seem to convert them to be cloth-diaper-aholics like me.... One friend of the anti-cloth persuasion asked questions about whether cloth diapers were REALLY more cost-effective and environmentally friendly in the long run -- especially if you factored in the water it takes to continually wash all those wet, poopy things. And when this friend asked... I did not know the answer. But now I do. AND FYI... I STILL WIN. (not that this is a competition... and if it were... (which it is not)... in all reality, it's the environment that wins.... And my checkbook.
You can check out the link to the article about the eco-nomics of cloth diapers here.
It's a great article - geared specifically for residents of Colorado and discusses water usage and diapers. Turns out that it takes LOADS more water (pun intended) to manufacture all those "disposable" diapers than it does to manufacture and wash cloth diapers. This doesn't even take into account the petroleum products that go into the manufacturing of "disposable" diapers. But don't take my word for it, read the article and inform yourself.
I still stand by my decision to cloth diaper my child. And so does Lovey. I hope that eventually more people will realize both the environmental and cost benefits of cloth diapering and give it a try. Heck -- you don't even have to go "full boar" at first. Buy one or two cloth diapers and try to use just one cloth diaper a day... ease yourself in. I think you'll be surprised that it's not as difficult or overwhelming as you might think.
The environment will thank you, I will thank you, your child's bum with thank you, and the future inhabitants of this earth will thank you, too!
--bf
If you don't believe me that this is a new trend... take a look at a new-ish product that Huggies came out with... I'm convinced that they are responding to the cuteness of the cloth diaper craze!
Even though I have RAVED about the benefits (and ease) of cloth diapers, some of my friends continue to be non-believers. I can't seem to convert them to be cloth-diaper-aholics like me.... One friend of the anti-cloth persuasion asked questions about whether cloth diapers were REALLY more cost-effective and environmentally friendly in the long run -- especially if you factored in the water it takes to continually wash all those wet, poopy things. And when this friend asked... I did not know the answer. But now I do. AND FYI... I STILL WIN. (not that this is a competition... and if it were... (which it is not)... in all reality, it's the environment that wins.... And my checkbook.
You can check out the link to the article about the eco-nomics of cloth diapers here.
It's a great article - geared specifically for residents of Colorado and discusses water usage and diapers. Turns out that it takes LOADS more water (pun intended) to manufacture all those "disposable" diapers than it does to manufacture and wash cloth diapers. This doesn't even take into account the petroleum products that go into the manufacturing of "disposable" diapers. But don't take my word for it, read the article and inform yourself.
I still stand by my decision to cloth diaper my child. And so does Lovey. I hope that eventually more people will realize both the environmental and cost benefits of cloth diapering and give it a try. Heck -- you don't even have to go "full boar" at first. Buy one or two cloth diapers and try to use just one cloth diaper a day... ease yourself in. I think you'll be surprised that it's not as difficult or overwhelming as you might think.
The environment will thank you, I will thank you, your child's bum with thank you, and the future inhabitants of this earth will thank you, too!
--bf
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Another "must have" product!
I really do not enjoy shopping; for many reasons... here are a couple examples.: Shoe shopping.. size 10.5 shoes are never "cute" -- HELLO -- it makes most shoes look like CLOWN shoes.... pants/ jeans shopping... could SOMEONE make a 36" inseam for women - PUH-LEEZE!?!
That said... there are a few times when my opinion on shopping changes. This usually involves a book store or a cooking store. These places typically spell trouble with a capital "T". I could spend HOURS (and lots of cash) in a bookstore (AMAZON.com loves me... ) The same can be said for Sur La Table. It is always dangerous to enter... but it's like there is a magnet pulling me in. I. just. can't. stop.
My mom's birthday is in November. I always seem to struggle on what to get her. She never "needs" anything. And since she doesn't live nearby, it's not like I overhear her talk about things she likes or needs. I'm always just making "guesses" and hoping I come close to the mark. This past year I did pretty OK. And I have Sur La Table and THIS product to thank.
Magnetic measuring spoons! (I was in the process of making donuts with mine in the photo above.) Growing up, I remember one argument that my parents had consistently. Do you keep all the measuring spoons connected together on the "little plastic ring?" Or do you let all the spoons hang out separately? My dad sided with "connected on the little ring". This ticked my mom off because she was always washing the dishes and even if Dad used only one spoon she had to wash all of them. My mom wanted all the spoons to hang out separately. But this drove my dad nuts because he was always on the hunt for the spoon that got "lost" and wasn't put back in the correct place. Eventually they agreed to disagree and each parent had their own set of measuring spoons, stored in the way they liked best.
I found these nifty spoons while browsing at Sur La Table before my mom's birthday. When I saw them, I immediately knew I had struck gold! This little gadget was the answer to all of my parents measuring spoon arguments... and at least got me started in the right direction for my mom's birthday.
Here are a few reasons why these spoons are so darn cool. The spoons are magnetic and stick together. No more ring. No more spoon getting lost from the others because they aren't connected together. Another great feature is that the measuring spoons are two sided. One side is wider and round, the other side is more narrow and oval. This is great for getting the measuring spoons into different size containers of spices, baking soda, baking powder, etc. Another reason why this two sided feature is so fantastic is because you can use one side for dry ingredients and one side for wet ingredients. No more need for washing the spoons before you can add another ingredient to your recipe... and no need to have two sets of measuring spoons because you are too lazy or in too big of a hurry to wash one spoon in order to finish your recipe.
My mom liked these so much that she had me buy 5 extra sets as Christmas gifts for friends and family. I also have a set for myself (as you can see from above). I absolutely love them. My only complaint? I had better be putting my spoons away correctly -- because now if I lose one measuring spoon... I lose them all!!!
These measuring spoons are made by Progressive and run $14.95 - which may seem a bit steep for measuring spoons. But the set is stainless steel -- and it really is like having two sets of spoons in one handy item... (I can then rationalize cutting the price in half! Two for the price of one!!!) I truly think that they are worth every penny. If you do half as much baking as me - you'll be super happy with your decision to run out and get them!
Anyone else have a set? What do you think? Is there another kitchen product that you just can't live without? I'd love to hear about it!
--bf
That said... there are a few times when my opinion on shopping changes. This usually involves a book store or a cooking store. These places typically spell trouble with a capital "T". I could spend HOURS (and lots of cash) in a bookstore (AMAZON.com loves me... ) The same can be said for Sur La Table. It is always dangerous to enter... but it's like there is a magnet pulling me in. I. just. can't. stop.
My mom's birthday is in November. I always seem to struggle on what to get her. She never "needs" anything. And since she doesn't live nearby, it's not like I overhear her talk about things she likes or needs. I'm always just making "guesses" and hoping I come close to the mark. This past year I did pretty OK. And I have Sur La Table and THIS product to thank.
Magnetic measuring spoons! (I was in the process of making donuts with mine in the photo above.) Growing up, I remember one argument that my parents had consistently. Do you keep all the measuring spoons connected together on the "little plastic ring?" Or do you let all the spoons hang out separately? My dad sided with "connected on the little ring". This ticked my mom off because she was always washing the dishes and even if Dad used only one spoon she had to wash all of them. My mom wanted all the spoons to hang out separately. But this drove my dad nuts because he was always on the hunt for the spoon that got "lost" and wasn't put back in the correct place. Eventually they agreed to disagree and each parent had their own set of measuring spoons, stored in the way they liked best.
I found these nifty spoons while browsing at Sur La Table before my mom's birthday. When I saw them, I immediately knew I had struck gold! This little gadget was the answer to all of my parents measuring spoon arguments... and at least got me started in the right direction for my mom's birthday.
Here are a few reasons why these spoons are so darn cool. The spoons are magnetic and stick together. No more ring. No more spoon getting lost from the others because they aren't connected together. Another great feature is that the measuring spoons are two sided. One side is wider and round, the other side is more narrow and oval. This is great for getting the measuring spoons into different size containers of spices, baking soda, baking powder, etc. Another reason why this two sided feature is so fantastic is because you can use one side for dry ingredients and one side for wet ingredients. No more need for washing the spoons before you can add another ingredient to your recipe... and no need to have two sets of measuring spoons because you are too lazy or in too big of a hurry to wash one spoon in order to finish your recipe.
My mom liked these so much that she had me buy 5 extra sets as Christmas gifts for friends and family. I also have a set for myself (as you can see from above). I absolutely love them. My only complaint? I had better be putting my spoons away correctly -- because now if I lose one measuring spoon... I lose them all!!!
These measuring spoons are made by Progressive and run $14.95 - which may seem a bit steep for measuring spoons. But the set is stainless steel -- and it really is like having two sets of spoons in one handy item... (I can then rationalize cutting the price in half! Two for the price of one!!!) I truly think that they are worth every penny. If you do half as much baking as me - you'll be super happy with your decision to run out and get them!
Anyone else have a set? What do you think? Is there another kitchen product that you just can't live without? I'd love to hear about it!
--bf
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Products I Love: A Must-Have for Mamas!
Life has certainly changed since Sweet Pea arrived. Most of those changes are fantastic. My old life seems like a distant memory - and there isn't a whole lot that I miss. I miss finding time to run... and I know that eventually, I will find time to make time for myself again. (To be honest - right now if I have a choice between an extra 30 minutes of sleep, or a 30 minute run -- I'm choosing sleep!) I miss all the hours I used to have available to bake and sew... now I just need to be strategic about squeezing a little sewing or baking in here and there. It's not enough, but it's better than not at all.
Do you want to hear what I miss most of all about my old life? HOT COFFEE. I don't think I've been able to sit at home and finish a cup of joe while it's still hot in close to 10 months. And I miss it. I miss it a lot.
Enter the MOST FABULOUS product that I have encountered in quite some time. It's a mug. It's a thermos. Or, as I like to call it... it's a MUGOS! (REI calls it the flip-top vacuum tumbler... bah! my name is so much better!)
This fantastic contraption, sold by REI, is revolutionary! My coffee stays hot in this thing for HOURS. No lie. For HOURS. No longer is my coffee cold within a matter of minutes. Designed like a coffee thermos - it insulates to keep the insides hot. But the top of the flip top vacuum tumbler (AKA mugos) allows you to drink directly from it, without having to pour your drink into another container - thus allowing your coffee to stay hot!
The little white button the the top "clicks" down - and you are able to drink directly from your "mugos". Click the button again, and the hot beverage stays inside without leaking out.
While the product is not "perfect" - I've noticed now and again that coffee spills down my front while I am drinking... I'm not exactly sure if this is product error, or user error. Overall, I give this product a 4.5 out of 5 stars for functionality. I give it a 5 of 5 for "life-giving hot coffee" satisfaction.
If you, like me, are a mama that misses finishing your beverage while it is still HOT- you should RUN, not walk, to get yourself this fantastic product made by and sold at REI! It's $24.50 -- which might seem a bit steep for a coffee thermos. But I've not regretted my purchase for one-hot-second. (pun intended).
Let me know if you decide to get one - or if by chance you already own one. I'd love to hear your opinions on the product. Or, better yet... what are the products/ gadgets that you just can't life without?
--bf
Do you want to hear what I miss most of all about my old life? HOT COFFEE. I don't think I've been able to sit at home and finish a cup of joe while it's still hot in close to 10 months. And I miss it. I miss it a lot.
Enter the MOST FABULOUS product that I have encountered in quite some time. It's a mug. It's a thermos. Or, as I like to call it... it's a MUGOS! (REI calls it the flip-top vacuum tumbler... bah! my name is so much better!)
This fantastic contraption, sold by REI, is revolutionary! My coffee stays hot in this thing for HOURS. No lie. For HOURS. No longer is my coffee cold within a matter of minutes. Designed like a coffee thermos - it insulates to keep the insides hot. But the top of the flip top vacuum tumbler (AKA mugos) allows you to drink directly from it, without having to pour your drink into another container - thus allowing your coffee to stay hot!
The little white button the the top "clicks" down - and you are able to drink directly from your "mugos". Click the button again, and the hot beverage stays inside without leaking out.
While the product is not "perfect" - I've noticed now and again that coffee spills down my front while I am drinking... I'm not exactly sure if this is product error, or user error. Overall, I give this product a 4.5 out of 5 stars for functionality. I give it a 5 of 5 for "life-giving hot coffee" satisfaction.
If you, like me, are a mama that misses finishing your beverage while it is still HOT- you should RUN, not walk, to get yourself this fantastic product made by and sold at REI! It's $24.50 -- which might seem a bit steep for a coffee thermos. But I've not regretted my purchase for one-hot-second. (pun intended).
Let me know if you decide to get one - or if by chance you already own one. I'd love to hear your opinions on the product. Or, better yet... what are the products/ gadgets that you just can't life without?
--bf
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Donuts... is there Anything They Can't Do?
I first wrote about my search for the donut machine of my childhood here. This is a follow up to report that I have had SUCCESS in finding the machine for which I have been on the hunt. Turns out, I had the wrong brand name. Thanks to my colleague Blaine who pointed out (in a very nice way) that maybe my memory wasn't serving me correctly... After looking on ebay - I found a machine (with photos) and the box was EXACTLY what I remembered from back in the day. Not only did I have the brand wrong, I also had imagined the machine to make 6 full size donuts at a time. Alas, it only makes two... Oh, how my memories have deceived me!
I bid on the machine and lucky me, I WON! The machine arrived last week. I did a dance of happiness and joy and waited (impatiently) for this past weekend when I had a chance to try it out.
Sweet Pea and I were up early on Sunday. VERY EARLY. We did a little experimenting while Lovey got some extra rest. We attempted the recipe that was posted here. And overall I would say that I am happy with my purchase.
First, I will say that 5 minutes seems like an awful long time to wait for 2 darn donuts. Especially if you are trying to make quite a few - and you are hungry. Overall, the process was worth the effort and I am very much looking forward to Sweet Pea being old enough to make donuts with me. There are several more donut recipes to try in the book - some with frosting, some with filing... the recipe booklet even comes with some bagel recipes to attempt in the machine. CRAZY, I know!
Mostly, though it's just really cool to know that I own a piece of nostalgia; something I remember from my past. Memories that remind me of home, and my mom and dad.... It reminds me of one of the few opportunities that they provided me to eat food that was "bad" for me -- and had sugar... (more on my mom's crazy natural foods upbringing at a later point)...
Turns out that this machine was actually made in 1977. That's even before Lovey was born!!!! The machine looks like it's in brand-new condition... it should have many years of hard weekend work in its future. I'm looking forward to plenty of opportunities for donut adventures with Sweet Pea. Even though you can't tell from the look on his face, Sweet Pea is, too!!! YUM.
--bf
Sweet Pea and I were up early on Sunday. VERY EARLY. We did a little experimenting while Lovey got some extra rest. We attempted the recipe that was posted here. And overall I would say that I am happy with my purchase.
First, I will say that 5 minutes seems like an awful long time to wait for 2 darn donuts. Especially if you are trying to make quite a few - and you are hungry. Overall, the process was worth the effort and I am very much looking forward to Sweet Pea being old enough to make donuts with me. There are several more donut recipes to try in the book - some with frosting, some with filing... the recipe booklet even comes with some bagel recipes to attempt in the machine. CRAZY, I know!
Mostly, though it's just really cool to know that I own a piece of nostalgia; something I remember from my past. Memories that remind me of home, and my mom and dad.... It reminds me of one of the few opportunities that they provided me to eat food that was "bad" for me -- and had sugar... (more on my mom's crazy natural foods upbringing at a later point)...
Turns out that this machine was actually made in 1977. That's even before Lovey was born!!!! The machine looks like it's in brand-new condition... it should have many years of hard weekend work in its future. I'm looking forward to plenty of opportunities for donut adventures with Sweet Pea. Even though you can't tell from the look on his face, Sweet Pea is, too!!! YUM.
--bf
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
New Design
So - as you can see, I've been playing around with making a few changes to the design of the blog. Please tell me what you think... Do you like the new design? Find the photo too distracting? I'm interested in feedback, as I'm still working upon on all of this!
-bf
-bf
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
She's Crafty!
I. love. to. sew. It all started a few years back when I became frustrated. I mean REALLY REALLY frustrated with the price of clothes when I was shopping. I just needed a few skirts. I couldn't really find anything I liked - and the skirts that I did like -- were upwards of $60 - $80. For a skirt! An A-line skirt!
So, I thought to myself... "Self. How hard can it be to make a skirt? You should just buy a sewing machine and make your OWN skirts." And so I did. And so began my love for sewing.
I've made quite a few skirts. Some I'm proud of. Some I'm not so proud of. I've also completed projects other than skirts... I made my Lovey a tie. Out of corduroy. Pink corduroy. It turned out VERY COOL. Lovey loves it -- he just doesn't have much reason to wear a tie.
I also made myself a sundress... that looked like a giant moo moo. I'm not sure that I'm spelling "moo moo" right - but in this context the spelling of the word works -- because that is indeed what I looked like. A giant hot pink cow. Lovey wouldn't let me wear the sundress out of the house. Or in the house. It went to Goodwill. Now someone is the proud owner of a dress that I slaved over... I hope it looks fantastic on someone a bit more "large and in charge" than me.
I made Lovey a pair of pajama pants. They were a bit small. But, he wears them every now and again just to make me feel like the effort was worth it. I'm not sure if it's the size of the pants or the style -- it always looks like he has the pants on backwards - even when he puts them on the right way. Good thing they are pj pants and he mostly wears them in the dark. God Bless Lovey for loving me so much that he'll wear those horrible pants just to make me feel better. He's a keeper.
After the epic fails at clothing that needs to "fit" -- I decided that I should stick to items that were non-clothing - until I can figure out how to make the appropriate changes to ensure proper garment fit. So, I've stuck to baby receiving blankets, tote bags, etc. I'm still trying to figure out my "fit" problems. But goodness! I do love fabric and sewing. I'm addicted!
Of course, all of these projects were done before Sweet Pea came on the scene. It's been a bit difficult to fit much "me" time into my life with a cuddly little guy... but lately I've been able to get a bit more time for some fun projects. Sweet Pea heads off to bed sometime around 7:00 or 8:00 which gives me a bit of time to work on projects... It's taking me longer to get my projects done. Gone are the days of "busting out a skirt" in one sitting - but I'm learning to slow down and enjoy the process.
And there are some nights that I work a bit later into the evening to get something done... because I just can't put down the fabric and back away from the machine.... but who needs sleep? Right?
In the past month, I've completed two kid's aprons - one for a little girl and one for a little boy... and a simple blanket/ tie quilt for Sweet Pea's birthday - it's done WAAAAY early... but like Sweet Pea will even remember. He's not even one!!!
I've included a few photos for those that are interested... sorry they aren't the best angles/ images... I promise to work on my photography skills. You know, in all my free time ;-)
Here is the little boy's apron. It's reversible. I can't take credit for this pattern... I found a free pattern for the apron here.... kid sized chef's apron I made the apron to fit a 3 year old. Sorry I don't have a photo of it ON a three year old... but the three year old does not belong to me ;-)
This is the little girl's apron. I designed the pattern myself. It was a bit of a pain... but in the end, I was happy with the result... I learned quite a bit... and was able to take out my aggression by continually ripping out my mistakes and staring over... and over... and over. The apron was a gift for a family member - she's four. Sorry that it isn't actually displayed ON a four year old. I don't own one of those, either.
Finally, here are a couple of photos of Sweet Pea's quilt. Finished last night. I don't know if he will love it, but I really love it. Finished size is about 44x57 or 58, I think. I haven't actually measured it. It was very, very simple to do... almost TOO easy. I'm excited to try my hand a something a bit more complicated sometime in the future.
So - thanks for letting me share a few projects with you. I'm having fun getting back into the sewing groove. I've got projects stacked up on the sewing table and in my head. I can't wait to start getting more creative!! In the future I'll share some of my favorite books for projects... and the projects that I've playing with, too.
Any of you getting crafty these days? I can't wait to hear more about the things you love to do!
--bf
So, I thought to myself... "Self. How hard can it be to make a skirt? You should just buy a sewing machine and make your OWN skirts." And so I did. And so began my love for sewing.
I've made quite a few skirts. Some I'm proud of. Some I'm not so proud of. I've also completed projects other than skirts... I made my Lovey a tie. Out of corduroy. Pink corduroy. It turned out VERY COOL. Lovey loves it -- he just doesn't have much reason to wear a tie.
I also made myself a sundress... that looked like a giant moo moo. I'm not sure that I'm spelling "moo moo" right - but in this context the spelling of the word works -- because that is indeed what I looked like. A giant hot pink cow. Lovey wouldn't let me wear the sundress out of the house. Or in the house. It went to Goodwill. Now someone is the proud owner of a dress that I slaved over... I hope it looks fantastic on someone a bit more "large and in charge" than me.
I made Lovey a pair of pajama pants. They were a bit small. But, he wears them every now and again just to make me feel like the effort was worth it. I'm not sure if it's the size of the pants or the style -- it always looks like he has the pants on backwards - even when he puts them on the right way. Good thing they are pj pants and he mostly wears them in the dark. God Bless Lovey for loving me so much that he'll wear those horrible pants just to make me feel better. He's a keeper.
After the epic fails at clothing that needs to "fit" -- I decided that I should stick to items that were non-clothing - until I can figure out how to make the appropriate changes to ensure proper garment fit. So, I've stuck to baby receiving blankets, tote bags, etc. I'm still trying to figure out my "fit" problems. But goodness! I do love fabric and sewing. I'm addicted!
Of course, all of these projects were done before Sweet Pea came on the scene. It's been a bit difficult to fit much "me" time into my life with a cuddly little guy... but lately I've been able to get a bit more time for some fun projects. Sweet Pea heads off to bed sometime around 7:00 or 8:00 which gives me a bit of time to work on projects... It's taking me longer to get my projects done. Gone are the days of "busting out a skirt" in one sitting - but I'm learning to slow down and enjoy the process.
And there are some nights that I work a bit later into the evening to get something done... because I just can't put down the fabric and back away from the machine.... but who needs sleep? Right?
In the past month, I've completed two kid's aprons - one for a little girl and one for a little boy... and a simple blanket/ tie quilt for Sweet Pea's birthday - it's done WAAAAY early... but like Sweet Pea will even remember. He's not even one!!!
I've included a few photos for those that are interested... sorry they aren't the best angles/ images... I promise to work on my photography skills. You know, in all my free time ;-)
Here is the little boy's apron. It's reversible. I can't take credit for this pattern... I found a free pattern for the apron here.... kid sized chef's apron I made the apron to fit a 3 year old. Sorry I don't have a photo of it ON a three year old... but the three year old does not belong to me ;-)
This is the little girl's apron. I designed the pattern myself. It was a bit of a pain... but in the end, I was happy with the result... I learned quite a bit... and was able to take out my aggression by continually ripping out my mistakes and staring over... and over... and over. The apron was a gift for a family member - she's four. Sorry that it isn't actually displayed ON a four year old. I don't own one of those, either.
Finally, here are a couple of photos of Sweet Pea's quilt. Finished last night. I don't know if he will love it, but I really love it. Finished size is about 44x57 or 58, I think. I haven't actually measured it. It was very, very simple to do... almost TOO easy. I'm excited to try my hand a something a bit more complicated sometime in the future.
So - thanks for letting me share a few projects with you. I'm having fun getting back into the sewing groove. I've got projects stacked up on the sewing table and in my head. I can't wait to start getting more creative!! In the future I'll share some of my favorite books for projects... and the projects that I've playing with, too.
Any of you getting crafty these days? I can't wait to hear more about the things you love to do!
--bf
Monday, February 7, 2011
The Hazards of Nursing
Sweet Pea turned 10 months old today. I can't believe how quickly the time is flying. As the "one year" mark quickly approaches - I'm anticipating that sometime in the next 2 - 6 months, my little guy will be done breast feeding... this makes me think back on the last 10 months and reflect on some of my experiences.
Some of my most memorable experiences have come at the hands of other people's children. When Sweet Pea gets hungry or whiny in the company of friends and strangers, I try to disreetly move myself to a quieter location in the house so that he can eat in peace and quiet - and so I don't have to flash my world to everyone present. I've noticed that little boys really pay no attention. They pay me and Sweet Pea no heed. They don't notice me leave - and if they enter into the room I'm in, they don't even notice I'm there, usually they are too busy playing and making a commotion. The same cannot be said for little girls.
The little girls that I have experienced seem to 1. really LOVE babies and 2. be very curious about what is going on underneath my shirt/ Sweet Pea's blanket. On more than one occasion, I've had little girls follow me to whatever location in the house I choose. IT'S A BABY PARTY -- WE'RE COMING WITH YOU!!! And then the barrage of questions begin.
"What are you doing?"
"What's he doing under that blanket?"
"Can I see?"
And when I try to just keep the answers vague... such as "I'm feeding the baby" or "he's eating" - the girls just aren't satisfied.
"What's he eating?"
"Where is his bottle?"
"How are you feeding him?"
"Can I see?"
Suddenly, I'm in charge of teaching these 4 - 6 year old girls about the biology of feeding a baby. I'm not sure how I suddenly get to be the poster child for breast feeding - but it's an awkward position to be in to have to teach someone else's kid about biology. A little help here!!
So I have to attempt to talk about how the baby is drinking milk... from me. Common responses have included
"How did you get the milk in there?" to -- you guessed it "Can I see?"
So much trying to be discreet --Now I'm having to flash myself to young children - all in an effort to allow them to see that nursing a baby is natural, and normal, and not something to be embarrassed about - all while I am DYING inside that I am having to have this conversation with someone else's kid.
One friend's curious kid - even looked at me - asked several questions -- wanted to see (of course) -- and then looked me in the eye and responded "GROSS!" quickly followed by -- "Can I see, again?"
Ah, the joys of mothterhood. By the time Sweet Pea is 4 - 6, I'm guessing I'll have a better way to answer the questions about nursing - but for right now, I'm just making it up as I go along - and hoping that the parents to these children aren't too mad at me for opening a can of worms I never wanted to open in the first place.
Of course, none of this makes me regret my choice to nurse my child. It's better for him, he's healthier than formula fed kiddos, and it's been a great way to connect and bond with my Sweet Pea. And while a part of me is looking forward to the freedom of him no longer needing to nurse - a part of me will miss the time snuggling, too. So while the end may be near, I'm glad it's not quite here, yet.
-bg
Some of my most memorable experiences have come at the hands of other people's children. When Sweet Pea gets hungry or whiny in the company of friends and strangers, I try to disreetly move myself to a quieter location in the house so that he can eat in peace and quiet - and so I don't have to flash my world to everyone present. I've noticed that little boys really pay no attention. They pay me and Sweet Pea no heed. They don't notice me leave - and if they enter into the room I'm in, they don't even notice I'm there, usually they are too busy playing and making a commotion. The same cannot be said for little girls.
The little girls that I have experienced seem to 1. really LOVE babies and 2. be very curious about what is going on underneath my shirt/ Sweet Pea's blanket. On more than one occasion, I've had little girls follow me to whatever location in the house I choose. IT'S A BABY PARTY -- WE'RE COMING WITH YOU!!! And then the barrage of questions begin.
"What are you doing?"
"What's he doing under that blanket?"
"Can I see?"
And when I try to just keep the answers vague... such as "I'm feeding the baby" or "he's eating" - the girls just aren't satisfied.
"What's he eating?"
"Where is his bottle?"
"How are you feeding him?"
"Can I see?"
Suddenly, I'm in charge of teaching these 4 - 6 year old girls about the biology of feeding a baby. I'm not sure how I suddenly get to be the poster child for breast feeding - but it's an awkward position to be in to have to teach someone else's kid about biology. A little help here!!
So I have to attempt to talk about how the baby is drinking milk... from me. Common responses have included
"How did you get the milk in there?" to -- you guessed it "Can I see?"
So much trying to be discreet --Now I'm having to flash myself to young children - all in an effort to allow them to see that nursing a baby is natural, and normal, and not something to be embarrassed about - all while I am DYING inside that I am having to have this conversation with someone else's kid.
One friend's curious kid - even looked at me - asked several questions -- wanted to see (of course) -- and then looked me in the eye and responded "GROSS!" quickly followed by -- "Can I see, again?"
Ah, the joys of mothterhood. By the time Sweet Pea is 4 - 6, I'm guessing I'll have a better way to answer the questions about nursing - but for right now, I'm just making it up as I go along - and hoping that the parents to these children aren't too mad at me for opening a can of worms I never wanted to open in the first place.
Of course, none of this makes me regret my choice to nurse my child. It's better for him, he's healthier than formula fed kiddos, and it's been a great way to connect and bond with my Sweet Pea. And while a part of me is looking forward to the freedom of him no longer needing to nurse - a part of me will miss the time snuggling, too. So while the end may be near, I'm glad it's not quite here, yet.
-bg
Friday, February 4, 2011
Observations from a Sick Mama
So... turns out we've taught Sweet Pea how to be a good sharer. He came down with a cold sometime between Tuesday and Wednesday - and promptly shared it with both Lovey and me. It is fun times in our house. Lovey's cold seems to be hanging out in his chest... Sweet Pea has a runny nose and a goopy cough. Mine? Hanging out in my sinuses. Awesome. My already ridiculously nasal Midwestern accent just went to a new level of annoying. Foods have no flavor. I can't hear correctly... And I'm off my mom game.
It's near impossible to smell a poopy diaper with my sniffer in its current condition. I have put Sweet Pea to bed twice tonight in a diaper filled with poo. This NEVER happens! Good thing the kid is a clear communicator and screams bloody murder to let me know I'm slacking on my duties as super-mom.
Sweet Pea likes to share everything. Well, everything that belongs to me. He doesn't want to eat his food - but if it's going in my mouth - it must be good. He's a little insulted today that I don't want to share my food - well, mostly my germs with him. I've been getting stink-eye all night.
Having a nasty cold and having a child that is nursing brings a new level of torture to being sick. Actually, this cold wouldn't be so nasty if I could take some drugs - Advil Cold and Sinus, Tylenol Cold and Sinus, Sudafed -- turns out there really isn't anything you can take for medication - except Tylenol. And it just isn't cutting the mustard.
Well - those are about all the observations I have - other than sick mamas should get sleep when they can - as much as they can when their baby is sleeping... because you don't know how often the kiddo is going to wake up throughout the night when they aren't feeling well. So, that said - I'm going to take my own advice and get some rest. Cross your fingers that Sweet Pea sleeps through the night.
And if anyone has some sage advice on how make the sinus pressure go away without medicine. I'm all ears.
--bf
It's near impossible to smell a poopy diaper with my sniffer in its current condition. I have put Sweet Pea to bed twice tonight in a diaper filled with poo. This NEVER happens! Good thing the kid is a clear communicator and screams bloody murder to let me know I'm slacking on my duties as super-mom.
Sweet Pea likes to share everything. Well, everything that belongs to me. He doesn't want to eat his food - but if it's going in my mouth - it must be good. He's a little insulted today that I don't want to share my food - well, mostly my germs with him. I've been getting stink-eye all night.
Having a nasty cold and having a child that is nursing brings a new level of torture to being sick. Actually, this cold wouldn't be so nasty if I could take some drugs - Advil Cold and Sinus, Tylenol Cold and Sinus, Sudafed -- turns out there really isn't anything you can take for medication - except Tylenol. And it just isn't cutting the mustard.
Well - those are about all the observations I have - other than sick mamas should get sleep when they can - as much as they can when their baby is sleeping... because you don't know how often the kiddo is going to wake up throughout the night when they aren't feeling well. So, that said - I'm going to take my own advice and get some rest. Cross your fingers that Sweet Pea sleeps through the night.
And if anyone has some sage advice on how make the sinus pressure go away without medicine. I'm all ears.
--bf
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Update to Tuesday Adventures
So - thanks to my friend Blaine, I may have actually "found" the machine I am looking for... on ebay of all places. YAY. It's not under the name I remember, of course. And it doesn't look the same as I remember... but now that I see it, I'm pretty convinced that it might just be the same type we had when i was a kid. Oh, how the aging mind plays tricks on me!
i seem to remember our machine making six donuts at a time - but this one makes two. The box that the machine comes in looks oh, so, very familiar - so I think I'm on the right track. Thank you Blaine!!
The best part of all this searching - is that I think I found the recipe that comes with the machine. So - now I'm thinking that I might be able to use the pans I purchased and just use the recipe to make the donuts in my oven. I can't think that the machine is going to cook them much different than my oven would - any thoughts or suggestions on this?
I'm thinking that I'll preheat the oven to 350 - and add either oil or butter to the recipe to keep the donuts from sticking to the pan and to (hopefully) give them a crispy outside. AAAAAND if that doesn't work - maybe I'll have to break down and just purchase the machine. The price on the darn machine is a steal - I just have issues with paying more for shipping than I do the price of the item... guess that makes me a cheap-skate!!
So... for all of you that are wanting to try the recipe along with me - I've decided to share... here it is! Please let me know if you try it and what you think!
-
i seem to remember our machine making six donuts at a time - but this one makes two. The box that the machine comes in looks oh, so, very familiar - so I think I'm on the right track. Thank you Blaine!!
The best part of all this searching - is that I think I found the recipe that comes with the machine. So - now I'm thinking that I might be able to use the pans I purchased and just use the recipe to make the donuts in my oven. I can't think that the machine is going to cook them much different than my oven would - any thoughts or suggestions on this?
I'm thinking that I'll preheat the oven to 350 - and add either oil or butter to the recipe to keep the donuts from sticking to the pan and to (hopefully) give them a crispy outside. AAAAAND if that doesn't work - maybe I'll have to break down and just purchase the machine. The price on the darn machine is a steal - I just have issues with paying more for shipping than I do the price of the item... guess that makes me a cheap-skate!!
So... for all of you that are wanting to try the recipe along with me - I've decided to share... here it is! Please let me know if you try it and what you think!
-
Plain Donut recipe from the childhood memories of brookefrances
1 cup sifted all purpose flour
1/2 cup plus 1 level tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon double acting baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk
1 egg
1/4 cup cooking oil
Flavoring: vanilla, lemon, orange, or almond extract. Cinnamon or nutmeg (1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon) according to taste.
Combine and sift together dry ingredients. Beat egg and milk together and then add the cooking oil. Mix thoroughly into dry ingredients using an electric mixer. Preheat machine for 10 minutes; pour in batter, then add 1/2 teaspoon of oil into each circular cavity at top of unit within first 2 minutes of baking. Bake for 5 minutes or, for crisper donuts, bake until oil no longer bubbles from hole in top of lid. Makes 10 donuts.
Tuesday Adventures
Sweet Pea and I spent the day at home today - the weather has been a bit brisk here (-32 with the windchill). Since Denver Public Schools were closed, Sweet Pea's daycare was closed, too. So I worked from home and Sweet Pea and I hung out...
Before I started making phone calls and responding to emails, I decided that today would be a home-made donut day. A few weekends back I picked up some "donut pans" at Sur La Table and I've been itching to try them out... today was the day. Cold weather, hot coffee, and home-made donuts. What could be more perfect?
The recipe included called for cake flour, buttermilk, milk, butter, nutmeg, eggs, baking powder. The donuts tasted OK... but I'm kindof feeling that they weren't much different from a muffin, save for the shape of the pan. I guess I was hoping for.... more.
When I was a kid, my mom had this donut machine. A Mr. Donut machine - just plug it in and fill up the indentations with the batter... (sure wish I had THAT batter recipe). One the machine was filled... just shut the lid and a few minutes later there were these warm, fabulous, donuts. I can still smell and taste them... they were so... WONDERFUL. I called my mom several days ago to see if she still had that machine - somewhere in the basement, perhaps stashed away up in the attic. Unfortunately, she's not one to hang on to things - so someone else is the proud owner of my childhood donut machine. Lucky Bastard.
And I'm left with a buttermilk flavored, nutmeg infused muffin in the shape of a donut. I kindof feel cheated.
I've got to find a better donut recipe. Or track down one of those Mr. Donut machines. Thing is - like all good things from my past - the donut machine doesn't seem to be in production any more. Even trusty Amazon.com - the seller of all random things - does not seem to have anything even close... unless you want to count the machine that makes muffins in under 8 minutes... hey... wait a minute... that might work for the recipe I currently have in my hot little hands... but it's not. exactly. what I'm going for.
So... the quest continues... new recipe for donuts and/ or a donut machine that comes close to flavors and texture of my childhood memories.
Anyone have any leads? In the meantime I guess I'll be snacking on some buttermilk flavored nutmeg infused donut shaped muffins. Oh, yum.
Before I started making phone calls and responding to emails, I decided that today would be a home-made donut day. A few weekends back I picked up some "donut pans" at Sur La Table and I've been itching to try them out... today was the day. Cold weather, hot coffee, and home-made donuts. What could be more perfect?
The recipe included called for cake flour, buttermilk, milk, butter, nutmeg, eggs, baking powder. The donuts tasted OK... but I'm kindof feeling that they weren't much different from a muffin, save for the shape of the pan. I guess I was hoping for.... more.
When I was a kid, my mom had this donut machine. A Mr. Donut machine - just plug it in and fill up the indentations with the batter... (sure wish I had THAT batter recipe). One the machine was filled... just shut the lid and a few minutes later there were these warm, fabulous, donuts. I can still smell and taste them... they were so... WONDERFUL. I called my mom several days ago to see if she still had that machine - somewhere in the basement, perhaps stashed away up in the attic. Unfortunately, she's not one to hang on to things - so someone else is the proud owner of my childhood donut machine. Lucky Bastard.
And I'm left with a buttermilk flavored, nutmeg infused muffin in the shape of a donut. I kindof feel cheated.
I've got to find a better donut recipe. Or track down one of those Mr. Donut machines. Thing is - like all good things from my past - the donut machine doesn't seem to be in production any more. Even trusty Amazon.com - the seller of all random things - does not seem to have anything even close... unless you want to count the machine that makes muffins in under 8 minutes... hey... wait a minute... that might work for the recipe I currently have in my hot little hands... but it's not. exactly. what I'm going for.
So... the quest continues... new recipe for donuts and/ or a donut machine that comes close to flavors and texture of my childhood memories.
Anyone have any leads? In the meantime I guess I'll be snacking on some buttermilk flavored nutmeg infused donut shaped muffins. Oh, yum.
Monday, January 31, 2011
I. Have. Been. Wussified.
Looks like I am working from home tomorrow - provided that they actually keep the campus open. So far, it's business as usual, even though all the school districts have closed down due to extreme cold. And Sweet Pea's daycare is on the same schedule as the school district -- if the schools are closed - the daycare is closed, too.
Thank You Sweet Pea! I'll be staying warm instead of having my boogers freeze inside my nose on my way to work tomorrow.
It's supposed to be -30 here (with windchill) tomorrow. Thinking of the colder temps reminds me of my childhood and college days when this weather would be considered "balmy" by Wisconsin winter standards. Heck in this temp back home, we'd be out building snowmen and snow forts. All bundled up and excited to hit the sledding hills: the colder the snow -- the faster you go!
I seem to also remember many a cold, cold winter night when my college roomies and I would not only head out to the local bars - we'd head out WALKING without a coat - because we didn't want to carry our coats along with us (or have them smell like smoke -- back in the day before smoke-free public places.)
And now - here I am in Colorado - thanking my lucky stars that I don't have to freeze my face off tomorrow in -30 weather. It might be safe to say that I have been wussified by the Colorado climate. It also might be safe to say that -30 is damn cold - no matter where you live.
-bf
Thank You Sweet Pea! I'll be staying warm instead of having my boogers freeze inside my nose on my way to work tomorrow.
It's supposed to be -30 here (with windchill) tomorrow. Thinking of the colder temps reminds me of my childhood and college days when this weather would be considered "balmy" by Wisconsin winter standards. Heck in this temp back home, we'd be out building snowmen and snow forts. All bundled up and excited to hit the sledding hills: the colder the snow -- the faster you go!
I seem to also remember many a cold, cold winter night when my college roomies and I would not only head out to the local bars - we'd head out WALKING without a coat - because we didn't want to carry our coats along with us (or have them smell like smoke -- back in the day before smoke-free public places.)
And now - here I am in Colorado - thanking my lucky stars that I don't have to freeze my face off tomorrow in -30 weather. It might be safe to say that I have been wussified by the Colorado climate. It also might be safe to say that -30 is damn cold - no matter where you live.
-bf
Friday, January 28, 2011
The Weekend Awaits!
It's Friday night - and I'm at home... in a quiet house... It's the calm before the storm. Sweet Pea fell asleep early - which means he's not asleep for good. So as I await the arrival of my Chinese dinner - I'm contemplating what I'll attempt to do this weekend...
It's been a frustrating week at work. And I've been having a pity party. Yep that's me -- "Woa is Me? Party of One? Your table is ready!" I'm frustrated because I'm struggling to find value in my work - AND I'm also struggling because I don't feel like my work values me. I feel like I'M working hard to show my employees that I value them - but the feeling isn't reciprocated... But maybe that isn't their job... And maybe I should feel more confident in my abilities as a boss. But a simple - "Thanks for all you do, you're a great boss and we notice how you look out for us" would go a long way... (I guess there is the very REAL possibility that I am NOT a great boss - and that is why no one says Thank You... and maybe THIS is why I am so bothered and frustrated... but I digress.
All of the above thoughts are swirling around in my head... And I'm wondering - does my boss feel like this, too? Does she feel like she's bending over backwards and sideways to support the people she supervises but that none of us are telling her "THANKS for having my back" - or "your support really means the world to me?" Do other people at my level in the organization have the same frustrations - do they feel underpaid (no raises for the THIRD year in a row) and undervalued? Sometimes in order to receive love - you just need to give more of it... Maybe it's high time I stop whining and spread a little more of the love myself.
So-- since I bake when I'm frustrated and stressed... and in case you haven't noticed, I AM frustrated and stressed... my plan is to do some baking this weekend and share the love. In the off-chance that someone on the receiving end of one of my gifts has bothered to read this post - I think I'll resist the urge to share the actual plans... But if folks are interested, I'll share at the end of the process - with pictures and (hopefully) some reactions to said baking/ love-fest.
Here's to focusing on the positive - and rather than focusing on what I'm not getting... I'm going to make sure that I'm putting out into the universe what I would like see come back!
--bf
It's been a frustrating week at work. And I've been having a pity party. Yep that's me -- "Woa is Me? Party of One? Your table is ready!" I'm frustrated because I'm struggling to find value in my work - AND I'm also struggling because I don't feel like my work values me. I feel like I'M working hard to show my employees that I value them - but the feeling isn't reciprocated... But maybe that isn't their job... And maybe I should feel more confident in my abilities as a boss. But a simple - "Thanks for all you do, you're a great boss and we notice how you look out for us" would go a long way... (I guess there is the very REAL possibility that I am NOT a great boss - and that is why no one says Thank You... and maybe THIS is why I am so bothered and frustrated... but I digress.
All of the above thoughts are swirling around in my head... And I'm wondering - does my boss feel like this, too? Does she feel like she's bending over backwards and sideways to support the people she supervises but that none of us are telling her "THANKS for having my back" - or "your support really means the world to me?" Do other people at my level in the organization have the same frustrations - do they feel underpaid (no raises for the THIRD year in a row) and undervalued? Sometimes in order to receive love - you just need to give more of it... Maybe it's high time I stop whining and spread a little more of the love myself.
So-- since I bake when I'm frustrated and stressed... and in case you haven't noticed, I AM frustrated and stressed... my plan is to do some baking this weekend and share the love. In the off-chance that someone on the receiving end of one of my gifts has bothered to read this post - I think I'll resist the urge to share the actual plans... But if folks are interested, I'll share at the end of the process - with pictures and (hopefully) some reactions to said baking/ love-fest.
Here's to focusing on the positive - and rather than focusing on what I'm not getting... I'm going to make sure that I'm putting out into the universe what I would like see come back!
--bf
Thursday, January 27, 2011
What I'm Reading Now...
It all started with an apron. An innocent project for Lovey's cousin's little girl who was turning four. She loves eating cupcakes and she loves baking cupcakes and she's very girly. Wouldn't it be fun to make a sweet, girly apron that she could wear baking with her mom?
And so I found some fabric. Pink, of course! With cupcakes, and some coordinating fabric for the back -- ribbons and ruffles and the whole 9 yards. (it turned out pretty good, thanks for asking...). And then I went a little crazy... found a cute box to mail it in - complete with a Disney princess theme. AND I even found these cute little cupcake lip gloss containers - different colors and different flavors. SO CUTE! They matched the apron theme perfectly. I was so. excited. I mailed the package off and felt quite proud of myself.
And then I came across a review for the new book "Cinderella Ate My Daughter." Turns out maybe I shouldn't be so proud. Turns out maybe I just bought into every stereotype out there about little girls. And maybe I have a thing or two to learn. Why is it that everything is PINK for girls? With cupcakes? And why is there an entire market for Disney princess dresses? What sort of a message does this over-emphasis on looks send to our tiny little people? Shouldn't the message be less about what they look like and more about who they are? And why are we encouraging our little girls to grow up so fast with high heels, and "Britney Spears" clothes and make up?
I mean, really. Who sends a four year old LIP GLOSS for a birthday present? Yeah. That would be me.
While I have not yet ordered my own copy of "Cinderella Ate My Daughter", It will be in the cycle of the next few books I read. The title is compelling. ( And the cover is pink. I'm kidding... I won't be reading it because the cover is pink.) I'll be reading it because I believe it will give me insights into children - and while I do not have a daughter - I do have little girls in my life who I care about. And my son will be interacting with little girls, too. I feel it's best that I read up. Clearly I need the education.
But first - I feel like it might be best if I read up on how to be the best parent possible to my son. So I've just begun "Raising Cain: Protecting the Emotional Life of Boys". I'm only about a chapter in, but it's a compelling read, so far. I have high hopes that the book will help me understand how to best allow my son to express his emotions, as well as giving me ways to protect him from other children who might not be so in tune with expressing their own emotions.
The statistics are pretty alarming when it comes to risky behavior, car accidents, suicides, etc among boys/ young men. I'm looking forward to insights the book might provide on how I can start understanding my son from an early age... so that we can establish and maintain positive communication throughout his childhood and adolescent years. I want my child to be able to know I'm listening and trying to understand and meet his needs. Yes - I realize these are high hopes for just one book... but I have faith that it will at least deliver in part.
I am also hoping that there might be a few of you out there that will interested in reading one or both of these books along with me (or in the near future) and discussing some of the concepts in them. A virtual book-club if you will. Hit me up if you are interested, or send along suggestions for other books that might be good (or better) choices. Happy reading!
-bf
Monday, January 24, 2011
For "A"
I write this note with a bit of a heavy heart. Tomorrow my friend "A" is coming back to work. She's been out for 12 weeks - enjoying every minute with her new little guy. And tomorrow it's back to the grind. I'm pretty sure it's going to be one of the hardest days of her life. Perhaps I'm projecting my feelings onto her, I don't think I am. But I truly hope that is the case.
I've been back to work from my maternity leave just a little over five months. So the first day back is still a bit "fresh". But I remember the dread leading up to that day. How even THINKING about having to leave Sweet Pea would result in a puddle of tears. Thank goodness for my mother-in-law who stayed at our house the night before I returned to work and watched Sweet Pea my first day back. Even though I knew he was in good hands - it was still near impossible to walk out the front door. I cried the whole way to work. I cried most of the day at work. And I spent most of my day thinking about "not picking up the phone" to check in.
And Sweet Pea did just fine. Which was really what I wanted. I wanted it to be one of the worst days of MY life - not the worst day of HIS.
And now... five months later... Sweet Pea is doing just fine. He is not only surviving, he's thriving at his daycare. He has many little friends - and big friends too. He is social and developing new skills each day. He's always excited to see me when I pick him up at the end of the day but he's also happy to see his friends when I drop him off in the morning. Is it my ideal? Heck NO. Do I hope to find a way to have the best of both worlds where I get to spend more time with Sweet Pea but he also has some days in daycare, too. YOU BET. But today - it's not in the cards. Here's hoping that tomorrow - sometime soon - it IS in the cards... but until then we'll make the best of the time we have together.
It's the same for "A" - I know she wants to be a stay-at-home-mom. But today it's not in the cards. And the return to work after three whole months of quality time with baby "G" will stink. There is just no way around it. Because three months isn't enough. Three years isn't enough.
What I'd like to tell her is that baby "G" will do just fine. And that I'll be with her every step of the way... with Kleenex if necessary. Or chocolate.
-bf
I've been back to work from my maternity leave just a little over five months. So the first day back is still a bit "fresh". But I remember the dread leading up to that day. How even THINKING about having to leave Sweet Pea would result in a puddle of tears. Thank goodness for my mother-in-law who stayed at our house the night before I returned to work and watched Sweet Pea my first day back. Even though I knew he was in good hands - it was still near impossible to walk out the front door. I cried the whole way to work. I cried most of the day at work. And I spent most of my day thinking about "not picking up the phone" to check in.
And Sweet Pea did just fine. Which was really what I wanted. I wanted it to be one of the worst days of MY life - not the worst day of HIS.
And now... five months later... Sweet Pea is doing just fine. He is not only surviving, he's thriving at his daycare. He has many little friends - and big friends too. He is social and developing new skills each day. He's always excited to see me when I pick him up at the end of the day but he's also happy to see his friends when I drop him off in the morning. Is it my ideal? Heck NO. Do I hope to find a way to have the best of both worlds where I get to spend more time with Sweet Pea but he also has some days in daycare, too. YOU BET. But today - it's not in the cards. Here's hoping that tomorrow - sometime soon - it IS in the cards... but until then we'll make the best of the time we have together.
It's the same for "A" - I know she wants to be a stay-at-home-mom. But today it's not in the cards. And the return to work after three whole months of quality time with baby "G" will stink. There is just no way around it. Because three months isn't enough. Three years isn't enough.
What I'd like to tell her is that baby "G" will do just fine. And that I'll be with her every step of the way... with Kleenex if necessary. Or chocolate.
-bf
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Counting My Blessings...
Right before the holidays -- Lovey and I went to see the musical "White Christmas". It was one of his birthday presents... which falls just a few short days before Christmas (this always makes gift giving a bit of a challenge....) I usually try to pick something that allows us to do something together - try something new, experience something a bit outside of our routine. This year - it was even more important as our "couple" time plays second fiddle to our family time... So, some neighbors and great friends watched our sweet pea and we headed off to Littleton, CO to see a little community theatre.
It had been a while since I had watched the movie "White Christmas" and I'd never seen the play. For some reason, I'm reminded of it tonight as I get ready to get back into the grind of another work week.
It's easy for me to gear up for the week and think of all the things that are "wrong" in my life... all the things that don't fit my current vision or plan for where I would like to be... (too much time at work, not enough time with Sweet Pea; I haven't had a raise in over two years and I don't feel valued/ appreciated at work; and I don't know how the hell to fix any of it; blahblahblah whine whine whine)... So - tonight I'm taking a moment to reflect upon the lines of one of my favorite songs from "White Christmas"...
When i'm worried and i can't sleep
i count my blessings instead of sheep
and i fall asleep counting my blessings
It is such a beautiful song -- and the message is as true today as it was when the movie first came out.
I lead SUCH a blessed life...
I am the proud mama to a healthy, sweet, engaging, baby boy... he brings more joy to my life than he will ever know. Every second I spend with him is a gift - and while it might not be as much time as I would like... there are some out there that are wishing for a child to love and others who are grieving the loss or illness of their child. I am so blessed.
I have a wonderful, caring, supportive husband. We make a great team! I am so very blessed!
I have a job. My job provides me a salary and benefits - including health insurance. There are many others that are searching for work, or are uninsured and facing huge medical bills. I may not like my job EVERY day - but I enjoy my work and I feel like I make a difference... Not to mention that I have wonderful colleagues. I am so blessed.
I have friends and family that love me, care about me, and genuinely want me to succeed. My support system includes not just my family - but my husband's family, too. And I genuinely LIKE my husband's family (how many people WISH they could say that!). And while my family lives far away - and I miss them and wish Sweet Pea and I saw them more... I remind myself that my mom is over 2 years cancer-free. Every day with her is a gift. Sweet Pea and I are so blessed to be able to spend time with her even if it is only every few months.
I have a warm home and a safe place to lay my head. I have money in a savings account. I have plenty of food in my fridge. The list could go on and on and on... I am so so very blessed.
And as I drift off to sleep tonight I will count my blessings... and tomorrow I will count them again.
It had been a while since I had watched the movie "White Christmas" and I'd never seen the play. For some reason, I'm reminded of it tonight as I get ready to get back into the grind of another work week.
It's easy for me to gear up for the week and think of all the things that are "wrong" in my life... all the things that don't fit my current vision or plan for where I would like to be... (too much time at work, not enough time with Sweet Pea; I haven't had a raise in over two years and I don't feel valued/ appreciated at work; and I don't know how the hell to fix any of it; blahblahblah whine whine whine)... So - tonight I'm taking a moment to reflect upon the lines of one of my favorite songs from "White Christmas"...
When i'm worried and i can't sleep
i count my blessings instead of sheep
and i fall asleep counting my blessings
It is such a beautiful song -- and the message is as true today as it was when the movie first came out.
I lead SUCH a blessed life...
I am the proud mama to a healthy, sweet, engaging, baby boy... he brings more joy to my life than he will ever know. Every second I spend with him is a gift - and while it might not be as much time as I would like... there are some out there that are wishing for a child to love and others who are grieving the loss or illness of their child. I am so blessed.
I have a wonderful, caring, supportive husband. We make a great team! I am so very blessed!
I have a job. My job provides me a salary and benefits - including health insurance. There are many others that are searching for work, or are uninsured and facing huge medical bills. I may not like my job EVERY day - but I enjoy my work and I feel like I make a difference... Not to mention that I have wonderful colleagues. I am so blessed.
I have friends and family that love me, care about me, and genuinely want me to succeed. My support system includes not just my family - but my husband's family, too. And I genuinely LIKE my husband's family (how many people WISH they could say that!). And while my family lives far away - and I miss them and wish Sweet Pea and I saw them more... I remind myself that my mom is over 2 years cancer-free. Every day with her is a gift. Sweet Pea and I are so blessed to be able to spend time with her even if it is only every few months.
I have a warm home and a safe place to lay my head. I have money in a savings account. I have plenty of food in my fridge. The list could go on and on and on... I am so so very blessed.
And as I drift off to sleep tonight I will count my blessings... and tomorrow I will count them again.
Saturday, January 22, 2011
The Baker and the Chef...
So, it's been a while since I've posted. Apparently I need to get back into the groove. I made a resolution to be true to myself this year... But I really don't like starting resolutions on January 1st - it feels so.... forced. So many people RESOLVE to change their lives at the first of the year only to find that they can't stick with it. I like to reflect for a bit and start my resolutions about the time everyone else is falling off the wagon -- perhaps I feel like I'm being a bit more authentic this way. Well, I guess only time will tell.
So Happy 2011 (22 days in). Here's to sticking with my writing!
Today I've been reflecting a bit on my life - and the difference between my husband and me. I've come to the conclusion that much of how we operate in the world can be derived from how we operate in the kitchen. I'm a baker. I. Love. To. Bake. I pull out the cookbook. Look up a recipe. Follow the steps in order to end up with delicious perfection. Sure, I might add a few ingredients here and there... swap out the raisins for blueberries... add a bit more sugar or substitute heavy whipping cream for half and half (because EVERYTHING is better with heavy whipping cream). But pretty much, I stick to the recipe. If I have an idea for something new and wonderful - I head back to the cookbook (or to the trusty internet) and search out a new recipe for perfection.
My husband, -- (we'll just call him "Lovey") on the other hand -- is a cook/ chef. While he has no professional training - he is excellent in the kitchen. Some may think that "chef" is a stretch - I tend to disagree. Lovey - can walk to the cupboard or fridge -- see what we have on had -- grab a few ingredients and essential spices -- and whip up a fantastic dish in no time at all. AND present it with an artistic flair.
I've been "baking" my way through life, my entire life. There has always been a "recipe" for success. Get good grades in high school. Go to College. Get a Masters Degree. Get a job. Get married. Have a Family.... follow a plan...follow a plan... follow a plan....
So here I am in 2011. I find myself at a crossroads. I enjoy my job - but my soul is telling me that its time for something new. I'm at work from 8-5. I see Sweet Pea in the morning for a few hours and for a few hours at night. And the weekends - which go waywayway too fast. Most weekdays, I have a fussy baby in the morning and a crabby baby at night. And the daycare gets the best of my kid. AND I NEED MORE THAN THAT. I need much much much more than that for my soul to be satisfied.
So my natural instinct is to look up the recipe - the "step by step plan" that will get me the sweet perfection that I am seeking. The plan B MUST be written down somewhere. Guess what? It doesn't exist - or if it does, it isn't in any book that I can find. So I find myself floundering - looking from one book, idea, solution to the next - and finding that nothing seems to give me the perfect, easy, solution -- all baked up nice with chocolate frosting and sprinkles on top. I'm stuck. And frustrated. And I don't have a plan... AND I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT I'M SUPPOSED TO DO WITH MY LIFE.
So -- I guess that my next step is to apply Lovey's way of operating in the world. It's time to take stock of what's in my "pantry" - What are the talents and skills that I have on hand -- and how can I combine these ingredients to create something fantastic with my life? Whatever I come up with must utilize creativity - and allow me to live in a way where my soul can sing AND allow me to be there for the important moments in Sweet Pea's life. I deserve the best of him. And more importantly, he deserves the BEST of ME.
-- years ago I saw this quote on my college advisor's bulletin board. I don't know who to credit - but it rings as true today as it did then... It's important to have an end to journey towards, but it's the journey that matters... in the end."
I don't have any answers. Mostly I just have a million questions. But I'll keep you posted as I continue my journey to figure it out.
--bf
So Happy 2011 (22 days in). Here's to sticking with my writing!
Today I've been reflecting a bit on my life - and the difference between my husband and me. I've come to the conclusion that much of how we operate in the world can be derived from how we operate in the kitchen. I'm a baker. I. Love. To. Bake. I pull out the cookbook. Look up a recipe. Follow the steps in order to end up with delicious perfection. Sure, I might add a few ingredients here and there... swap out the raisins for blueberries... add a bit more sugar or substitute heavy whipping cream for half and half (because EVERYTHING is better with heavy whipping cream). But pretty much, I stick to the recipe. If I have an idea for something new and wonderful - I head back to the cookbook (or to the trusty internet) and search out a new recipe for perfection.
My husband, -- (we'll just call him "Lovey") on the other hand -- is a cook/ chef. While he has no professional training - he is excellent in the kitchen. Some may think that "chef" is a stretch - I tend to disagree. Lovey - can walk to the cupboard or fridge -- see what we have on had -- grab a few ingredients and essential spices -- and whip up a fantastic dish in no time at all. AND present it with an artistic flair.
I've been "baking" my way through life, my entire life. There has always been a "recipe" for success. Get good grades in high school. Go to College. Get a Masters Degree. Get a job. Get married. Have a Family.... follow a plan...follow a plan... follow a plan....
So here I am in 2011. I find myself at a crossroads. I enjoy my job - but my soul is telling me that its time for something new. I'm at work from 8-5. I see Sweet Pea in the morning for a few hours and for a few hours at night. And the weekends - which go waywayway too fast. Most weekdays, I have a fussy baby in the morning and a crabby baby at night. And the daycare gets the best of my kid. AND I NEED MORE THAN THAT. I need much much much more than that for my soul to be satisfied.
So my natural instinct is to look up the recipe - the "step by step plan" that will get me the sweet perfection that I am seeking. The plan B MUST be written down somewhere. Guess what? It doesn't exist - or if it does, it isn't in any book that I can find. So I find myself floundering - looking from one book, idea, solution to the next - and finding that nothing seems to give me the perfect, easy, solution -- all baked up nice with chocolate frosting and sprinkles on top. I'm stuck. And frustrated. And I don't have a plan... AND I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT I'M SUPPOSED TO DO WITH MY LIFE.
So -- I guess that my next step is to apply Lovey's way of operating in the world. It's time to take stock of what's in my "pantry" - What are the talents and skills that I have on hand -- and how can I combine these ingredients to create something fantastic with my life? Whatever I come up with must utilize creativity - and allow me to live in a way where my soul can sing AND allow me to be there for the important moments in Sweet Pea's life. I deserve the best of him. And more importantly, he deserves the BEST of ME.
-- years ago I saw this quote on my college advisor's bulletin board. I don't know who to credit - but it rings as true today as it did then... It's important to have an end to journey towards, but it's the journey that matters... in the end."
I don't have any answers. Mostly I just have a million questions. But I'll keep you posted as I continue my journey to figure it out.
--bf
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