I have a hypothetical situation for you. I know that usually when people say that, it's not actually hypothetical -- it's real. Well this is honestly hypothetical. Just something I've wondered about and don't know who else to ask.
I have an IUD. It's an extremely effective means of birth control. (More efficient than the pill and condoms.) But suppose I did by some miracle get pregnant -- wouldn't the likelihood of it being a tubal pregnancy be REALLY big? Do you think I'd need to go see a doctor like right away?
Again, NOT PREGNANT. Don't even think I am. But I've been wondering what I would do if I did accidentally get pregnant.
Thoughts?
2.27.2009
Random, ranting, guilty pleasures
Got my wisdom teeth removed yesterday. Well, some of them. I only have like 2 1/2. The dentist got in and looked around and decided that it would be best to have an oral surgeon removed that one that wasn't ruptured. He said I could wait and have the surgeon remove them all, or I could have him take out the 1 1/2 right then, the have the surgeon do the other one later. Since I had already arranged for sitters and a ride home that wouldn't come for 45 minutes, I decided to have him take the ones he could.
The procedure was over in less than 20 minutes. Even almost 24 hours laterwhat hurt the most were the shots they gave me numb me. It made my eyes tear, and the dentist kept asking if I was okay. I said "Uh-huh," as best I could with my moth frozen in place. What I wanted to say was, "I've given birth without an epidural. I can handle 5 seconds of pain." Of course I couldn't since 3 hands were in my mouth, but I wanted to. (Don't you hate it when the dentist asks you a question and you can't answer it because he's got your mouth pried open? Or he and his assistant start a conversation and you have something to add but you physically can't? So annoying.)
Anyway.
I'm doing marvelously well. I could have driven myself home, but had already dropped the car off for Superman to come and get me. I took 800 mg of ibuprofen, and have taken it every 6 hours since, but I really don't have any pain or swelling. Superman had arranged to take the day off in case I was out of commission, but I told him to go ahead and go in. It's honestly a regular day for me. (I guess 800 mg ibuprofen does that to a girl.)
I'm superparanoid about eating anything chunky. I had peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for dinner last night, and eggs this morning. I'm hoping a diet of all that plus cottage cheese, jello and pudding for a few days will help me shed a few pounds, but I kinda doubt it.
Do you ever want to try non-fat or no sugar stuff but are scared it won't taste good, so you don't buy it? Last night I went to get some jello and ice cream and had this dilemma. I thought sugar free jello would probably be okay, but I was still too scared to try it. And the same thing with low-fat no-sugar-added ice cream. (I got Dreyer's double churned stuff instead.) I was just too afraid that I'd buy it, hate it, and waste money. So, naturally, I made the unhealthy choice.
The procedure was over in less than 20 minutes. Even almost 24 hours laterwhat hurt the most were the shots they gave me numb me. It made my eyes tear, and the dentist kept asking if I was okay. I said "Uh-huh," as best I could with my moth frozen in place. What I wanted to say was, "I've given birth without an epidural. I can handle 5 seconds of pain." Of course I couldn't since 3 hands were in my mouth, but I wanted to. (Don't you hate it when the dentist asks you a question and you can't answer it because he's got your mouth pried open? Or he and his assistant start a conversation and you have something to add but you physically can't? So annoying.)
Anyway.
I'm doing marvelously well. I could have driven myself home, but had already dropped the car off for Superman to come and get me. I took 800 mg of ibuprofen, and have taken it every 6 hours since, but I really don't have any pain or swelling. Superman had arranged to take the day off in case I was out of commission, but I told him to go ahead and go in. It's honestly a regular day for me. (I guess 800 mg ibuprofen does that to a girl.)
I'm superparanoid about eating anything chunky. I had peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for dinner last night, and eggs this morning. I'm hoping a diet of all that plus cottage cheese, jello and pudding for a few days will help me shed a few pounds, but I kinda doubt it.
Do you ever want to try non-fat or no sugar stuff but are scared it won't taste good, so you don't buy it? Last night I went to get some jello and ice cream and had this dilemma. I thought sugar free jello would probably be okay, but I was still too scared to try it. And the same thing with low-fat no-sugar-added ice cream. (I got Dreyer's double churned stuff instead.) I was just too afraid that I'd buy it, hate it, and waste money. So, naturally, I made the unhealthy choice.
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The kids have got Lady and the Tramp on right now. Is Lady's voice the same as Merryweather's from Sleeping Beauty? And all the ethnic steotyping is mildly amusing in this movie.
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I mentioned in my last post that we had some neighbors move in across the street. This house has been vacant since we moved in 18 months ago. It was on the market when we bought ours for about 9K more than ours. It looks to be about the same square footage, but has a much smaller backyard. I think it may have an extra 1/2 bath.
That white thing on the right is just a carport that's been enclosed. Not finished yet. And aren't those windows that span the length of the room just lovely? Our home has new windows and siding, at least.
My point is, this home was going for almost 10K more than ours a year and a half ago. I'm not positive, but it's a pretty good bet our new neighbors bought it for 20-30K less than that original asking price. And I heard a commercial today on the radio for NEW HOMES starting from what we bought our house for. Our home isn't ancient, but it's definately not NEW!!! I am SO MAD. I seriously regret not waiting to buy our home. The day we closed is the day Countrywide almost went bankrupt. The very peak of the market. Which might be okay if we planned to be here for the next 10 years, but we aren't.
I'm just frustrated with it all right now.
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I just answered the door and a guy in my ward told me he thought one of our dogs was out. They were both in the house with me, so it was obviously a false alarm, but just two days ago another neighbor called saying the same thing. There's another golden retriever in our neighborhood that apparently gets loose quite often.
The part about all this that's the most frustrating, however, is that I answered the door to someone I knew in totally grubby clothes, in my 10 year old glasses and no-make-up. Like I just rolled out of bed. (Yes, I know it's almost noon. Shut up.)
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Instead of sharing the 10 random tunes on my player, I'm going to share some songs I'm really digging right now, but haven't put on my player for various reasons.
1. Love Story -- Taylor Swift. Love the words to this song. Not a big fan of her voice. And if Seriously, so blessed! has it on her playlist, I won't add it to mine. ;)
2. Hot & Cold -- Katy Perry. I can't help but sing and dance to this song. But I will NOT admit to liking it enough to put it on my player.
3. My life would suck without you -- Kelly Clarkson. Just love that title. I don't like how "poppy" the song is. I feel like that's not the real Kelly. But I love singing along.
4. I don't care -- Fall Out Boy. LOVE it. I've heard them say they love being people's guilty pleasure. They're totally one of mine.
5. Ice, ice, baby -- Vanilla Ice. He and MC Hammer are in town for a concert this weekend. And this song TOTALLY makes me think of Superman. "Back in the day" he had all the words memorized. It was on a mix tape of his. (How could I NOT fall for this guy?!)
6. Paralyzer -- Finger 11. Another song I can't help but sing and dance to.
Basically, I haven't put any of these on my player because I'm afraid people will hear them, judge me, and never come back.
Please don't judge me. Please come back.
She's crafty! She's just my type.
In December, Red did a Secret Santa will a few bloggers. Among the many great gifts I got from Lonna was a card-making kit from Close To My Heart, my favorite scrapbooking company. I mentioned a few weeks ago that so many of the people close to me are born in February, and I wasn't lying. (Superman was yesterday, and his sisters were last week.)
These are the cards I made for my sisters-in-law. (I couldn't find the cheat sheet with ideas for these cards, so they're kinda boring IMO.)
I had some wisdom teeth removed yesterday and one of my sweet friends watched my boys. I decided to make a card for her this morning. (I did have the cheat sheet for these next two!!)
Finally, we've had some neighbors move in across the street. This house has been vacant since we moved in a year and a half ago, so we're excited to have people living there! We've been talking about going over to introduce ourselves, so I made a card today in hopes that would help us get over there. (Honestly, we wanted to make sure they weren't flippers. The house was sold last summer, then put back on the market after some very minimal work was done. Once we saw them moving in furniture, we knew they were here to stay.)
Now all I need to do is make some cookies or brownies to take along with these! I'm so glad Lonna gave me this kit. Thanks again!!!!
2.26.2009
Don't you love making a difference?
Get a red envelope. (You can buy them at Kinkos, or at party supply stores.)
On the front, address it to:
President Barack Obama
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington , D.C. 20500
On the back, write the following message:
“This envelope represents one child who died because of an abortion.It is empty because the life that was taken is now unable to be a part of our world.”
We will mail these on March 31st, 2009.
I wish we could send 50 million red envelopes, one for every child who died [in the U.S.] before having a chance to live. It may seem that those who believe abortion is wrong are in a minority. It may seem like we have no voice and it's shameful to even bring it up. Let us show our President and the world that the voices of those of us who do not believe abortion is acceptable are not silent and must be heard. Together we can change the heart of The President and save the lives of millions of children.
Please forward or link to or copy this post to your own blog.
Thankful Thursday
Today, I am thankful for Superman.
It's his birthday, I just want to say I love him.
What else can I give a man whose favorite gift
Is for me to spend no money?
So my gift is to spend little time blogging,
And clean the house instead.
I just wanted to say I'm thankful for him.
He works so hard to provide for our family,
And I'm thankful for that.
He's a great dad -- our boys are crazy about him.
He's a sweet husband.
I love all the history we share.
He makes me laugh and makes me think.
I am thankful for someone who stimulates me
On all levels.
He really, really is my SuperMan.
2.25.2009
Wipping off other's Wednesday wordless and wordy things
What do you call the posts you do every week that start with the same letter the day start with? It is a meme? An alliteration meme? A habit that you just can't stop?
In any case, I'm doing some today. One I've done before and seen many places, the other is one I just found and love.
First, our wordless wednesday/wordful wednesday. I could post the pics without any explanation, but I feel I owe you the story.
My baby has gone from this:
To this:
The Hulk found my haircutting scissors and did a bang up job on himself. Took two huge chunks right out of the front of his hair. I tried to fix it and make it look cute......but ended up just having to buzz it.
He looks like he's ready for 2nd grade!! Or maybe boot camp or the county jail. All of which make me want to cry. At least he's still got his cape on.
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Now for part 2:
Word verification Wednesday!! I saw this on Thou shalt not whine and loved it. All you gotta do is come up with a definition for the word verification word that pops up. If you don't like the word, just refresh and do a different one. I'm excited to hear what you come up with!
2.23.2009
A muck
I don't know if anyone remembers this, but there was a comment on that post that asked what my children did while I blogged.
"But When do you find time to [blog]?? Are your children just running a muck while in front of the computer. I try to sit here when they are awake and I honestly think they start screaming as soon as I turn it on. Is this the lords way of say, "come on, is blogging that important?" do it when they are sleeping......"
Here's your answer, Anonymous.
"But When do you find time to [blog]?? Are your children just running a muck while in front of the computer. I try to sit here when they are awake and I honestly think they start screaming as soon as I turn it on. Is this the lords way of say, "come on, is blogging that important?" do it when they are sleeping......"
Here's your answer, Anonymous.
I might call this "a muck."
To be fair, my computer is in the same room. The children were no more than 15 feet away from me while this disaster zone was being created. I saw what they were doing and didn't stop them, (mostly because I knew they'd get mad and just do it again.) I can look at a mess like this and know approximately how long it would take to clean up. (10-15 minutes)
The thing is, blogging is fun and healthy for me. I am developing what little writing talent I have, and sometimes it means I'm reading my scriptures. I am connecting with wonderful women. I take more pictures of my children, and record the things they're doing that I never want to forget, because of blogging. I am learning about the world around me, much more so than when I wasn't blogging. I am a better person, all-around.
I admit that sometimes when I blog, my children are watching TV. But it's generally Wonderpets or SuperWhy. (Show me a mother who never uses the TV as a babysitter and I'll show you a woman 10 seconds away from losing her mind!! Or a liar.) When the Tv isn't on, and often even when it is on, they're playing together. Building lego ships. Being monsters or playing duck duck goose. Pretending to be Star Wars characters or wrestling the dogs. Playing with farm animals or Mr. Potatohead. Building dog houses or rocketships or castles out of couch cushions and chairs and baby gates. (Like the picture above.)
Basically, these messes are worth it to me. Our house is small enough that I can always hear them (read: always around to break up fights). Cleaning up gives me [LOTS] of opportunities to teach my children about cleaning up the messes they make. It means that they have lots of freeplay. And with two boys 19 months apart, they never run out of things to imagine. They are the BEST of friends, and I can only pray that friendship will last through their lives, and beyond.
So, yes. My children tend to run a muck when I blog for hours on end. I try to keep a good balance, though, and this keeps the muck from getting too deep. But I really don't mind the muck so much. For me, the benefits outweigh any messes I might have to clean up.
2.22.2009
intuition
We've all got it. Some, at least. Especially if you're a woman. (Which most of you are.)
Most often my intuition comes for the little things throughout the day. Case in point: cooking dinner.
I'm cooking dinner as I type this. My stove is 6 feet away from the computer, so it works. I'm cooking some pasta, and I want it to get done quicker than it is. Even though I'v been trained to never turn the burners to high, I've done that now to get the water to boil faster. It worked. I poured in the pasta and stirred. Stirred it again a few moments later. I wanted it to cook faster (can you tell I'm not on schedule tonight?) so I thought I'd put the lid haphazardly on the pot. I didn't want it on all the way because I knew it would all boil over quickly. But as I was putting the lid on, I thought, Maybe I shouldn't do this it all. I ignored the thought, assuming things would be okay.
4 minutes later as I'm at the computer, I hear the water boil over. Why didn't I listen to my intuition? I thought!!
This of course is not a one time occurance. Many times before walking out of the house, I think, I should grab a diaper and wipes, just in case. I dismiss the thought, thinking I probably won't need it anyway, and I'm in a hurry. (Common thread in the weaving of my life!) Then two hours later, the Hulk's got a stinker and I think, Man!! I should've grabbed that diaper!
My question is: Why do we often ignore our intuition? Or am I the only one who does?
It seems like I think I know better than myself. That doesn't actually make any sense, but I think you know what I mean. And it still doesn't make any sense!! How is it even possible for you to know better than yourself? Am I really that arrogant?
Have you learned to listen to your intuition? Do you think it's the Holy Ghost? Or is it just the voice of experience?
Most often my intuition comes for the little things throughout the day. Case in point: cooking dinner.
I'm cooking dinner as I type this. My stove is 6 feet away from the computer, so it works. I'm cooking some pasta, and I want it to get done quicker than it is. Even though I'v been trained to never turn the burners to high, I've done that now to get the water to boil faster. It worked. I poured in the pasta and stirred. Stirred it again a few moments later. I wanted it to cook faster (can you tell I'm not on schedule tonight?) so I thought I'd put the lid haphazardly on the pot. I didn't want it on all the way because I knew it would all boil over quickly. But as I was putting the lid on, I thought, Maybe I shouldn't do this it all. I ignored the thought, assuming things would be okay.
4 minutes later as I'm at the computer, I hear the water boil over. Why didn't I listen to my intuition? I thought!!
This of course is not a one time occurance. Many times before walking out of the house, I think, I should grab a diaper and wipes, just in case. I dismiss the thought, thinking I probably won't need it anyway, and I'm in a hurry. (Common thread in the weaving of my life!) Then two hours later, the Hulk's got a stinker and I think, Man!! I should've grabbed that diaper!
My question is: Why do we often ignore our intuition? Or am I the only one who does?
It seems like I think I know better than myself. That doesn't actually make any sense, but I think you know what I mean. And it still doesn't make any sense!! How is it even possible for you to know better than yourself? Am I really that arrogant?
Have you learned to listen to your intuition? Do you think it's the Holy Ghost? Or is it just the voice of experience?
2.21.2009
now streaming online
I've got a lot rolling through my head, and I can't channel it all enough to make a coherent post. So you get an incoherent one, consisting of thoughts as they come to me. My current stream of consciousness.
1. What is it about freshly made beds that kids can't resist jumping on?
2. I like Vh1 reality shows better than the ones on MTV.
3. Spiderman has been on amoxycillin for 10 days, but this morning is starting to wheeze a little bit. Probably not a good thing. And of course it's Saturday. What should I do?
4. I've got to figure out what I'm going to do about my wisdom teeth extraction next week. I need a ride home. And babysitters. And it's on Superman's birthday! But there's nothing to be done about that, except me feeling like a horrible wife.
5. I really want to go to Kristina P.'s meet and greet today, but I'm just not sure if it's all going to work out. If I do go, I'd probably be about 15 minutes late. To meet a bunch of strangers. I'm wondering if it's worth it.
6. I need dishwasher soap.
7. I want some Diet Dr. Pepper.
8. It's really annoying that my children think getting dressed is a game where they are being chased by a monster and when one is captured, the other comes to hit or kick the monster. (Me.) It will be just fine with me when this fun game is OVER.
9. I'm worried that things aren't going to go well with the Cub and Boy Scout activity tonight. I kinda want to go to make things turn out okay, but don't actually want to go to the basketball game.
10. Actually, I'd like to go to the basketball game. But the only other leaders that will be there are men, and Superman doesn't want to go, and we dont' want to bring our kids.
11. I wish we weren't Cubmasters.
12. Our enrichement activity went SO WELL the other night!! We had a great turn out and a lot of fun. Thanks for all your input!
13. I have to play the organ tomorrow and I don't know what the hymns are.
14. I desperately need a haircut. My split ends have split ends. A color would be fun to. I want to be a little lighter and brighter.
15. Maybe I should wait till the weather warms up to lighten my hair.
16. I am READY for summer. At least for spring. And flip-flops. And gauchos. (Are those in style any more?)
17. I should've planted those tulips in the fall. It's frustrating when my laziness/procrastination has such annoying consequences. They're still sitting on my dryer.
18. I wish I had a free babysitter.
1. What is it about freshly made beds that kids can't resist jumping on?
2. I like Vh1 reality shows better than the ones on MTV.
3. Spiderman has been on amoxycillin for 10 days, but this morning is starting to wheeze a little bit. Probably not a good thing. And of course it's Saturday. What should I do?
4. I've got to figure out what I'm going to do about my wisdom teeth extraction next week. I need a ride home. And babysitters. And it's on Superman's birthday! But there's nothing to be done about that, except me feeling like a horrible wife.
5. I really want to go to Kristina P.'s meet and greet today, but I'm just not sure if it's all going to work out. If I do go, I'd probably be about 15 minutes late. To meet a bunch of strangers. I'm wondering if it's worth it.
6. I need dishwasher soap.
7. I want some Diet Dr. Pepper.
8. It's really annoying that my children think getting dressed is a game where they are being chased by a monster and when one is captured, the other comes to hit or kick the monster. (Me.) It will be just fine with me when this fun game is OVER.
9. I'm worried that things aren't going to go well with the Cub and Boy Scout activity tonight. I kinda want to go to make things turn out okay, but don't actually want to go to the basketball game.
10. Actually, I'd like to go to the basketball game. But the only other leaders that will be there are men, and Superman doesn't want to go, and we dont' want to bring our kids.
11. I wish we weren't Cubmasters.
12. Our enrichement activity went SO WELL the other night!! We had a great turn out and a lot of fun. Thanks for all your input!
13. I have to play the organ tomorrow and I don't know what the hymns are.
14. I desperately need a haircut. My split ends have split ends. A color would be fun to. I want to be a little lighter and brighter.
15. Maybe I should wait till the weather warms up to lighten my hair.
16. I am READY for summer. At least for spring. And flip-flops. And gauchos. (Are those in style any more?)
17. I should've planted those tulips in the fall. It's frustrating when my laziness/procrastination has such annoying consequences. They're still sitting on my dryer.
18. I wish I had a free babysitter.
2.19.2009
What do I really want?
It would seem that my last post struck a chord. Understandably. And some of your comments got me thinking about other things.
What do I really want for my children? Do I want them to grow up having a nice little life with no hardship? Of course. But I also know that without opposition, they will be weak. I want them to have to fight for their testimonies. I want them to have to stand up for what they believe in. I want them to face those fights and win.
Do I want my children to be well-liked and good-looking? Of course. But it seems that exceptionally popular and good-looking kids face a LOT of temptation. I don't want girls calling my son when he's 11-years-old because he's cute!! I think I just want them to be moderately good-loooking. Cute enough to be cute, but not so cute that the opposite sex won't leave them alone. (Basically how I was. While I had lots of friends, I was never in the popular crowd. I was never invited to a party where alcohol was served. And I'm okay with that.) I guess I'm just scared they won't be strong enough to resist temptation if they are continually confronted with it. Plus, there's a lot to learn from being a little insecure.
Do I want my children to be perfectly obedient? Of course I do. But I also know that there is wisdom to be found only through making mistakes. I just want them to be small mistakes. (That's not too much to ask, right?) I also know that having a home with military-like discipline will most likely drive my children to defiance. They have to know our expectations, but also know that there is love and forgiveness.
Do I want my children to grow up having everything they want? Of course. But I also want them to understand the concept of working and saving for something you want. Fortunately, I don't think this will be too big of a problem for us. :)
Do I want to do all the hard stuff for my children? Of course. I could do their homework so they'd always get good grades, and I could deal with all the bullies myself. But I know if I do, they will never learn for themselves. I can teach them to the best of my ability, but they've got to do it for themselves if they're going to grow.
I've discovered that the best way for me to understand God has been through being a parent. I understand why God wants us to ask for blessings, even though He already knows what we want/need. I know why He doesn't stop all the bad things from happening. I know why He gets frustrated when we don't obey. I know why sometimes He says no. I know why He leaves some decisions up to us. I have a small inkling as to how He loves us so much.
I just have to work on being the kind of parent He is.
What do I really want for my children? Do I want them to grow up having a nice little life with no hardship? Of course. But I also know that without opposition, they will be weak. I want them to have to fight for their testimonies. I want them to have to stand up for what they believe in. I want them to face those fights and win.
Do I want my children to be well-liked and good-looking? Of course. But it seems that exceptionally popular and good-looking kids face a LOT of temptation. I don't want girls calling my son when he's 11-years-old because he's cute!! I think I just want them to be moderately good-loooking. Cute enough to be cute, but not so cute that the opposite sex won't leave them alone. (Basically how I was. While I had lots of friends, I was never in the popular crowd. I was never invited to a party where alcohol was served. And I'm okay with that.) I guess I'm just scared they won't be strong enough to resist temptation if they are continually confronted with it. Plus, there's a lot to learn from being a little insecure.
Do I want my children to be perfectly obedient? Of course I do. But I also know that there is wisdom to be found only through making mistakes. I just want them to be small mistakes. (That's not too much to ask, right?) I also know that having a home with military-like discipline will most likely drive my children to defiance. They have to know our expectations, but also know that there is love and forgiveness.
Do I want my children to grow up having everything they want? Of course. But I also want them to understand the concept of working and saving for something you want. Fortunately, I don't think this will be too big of a problem for us. :)
Do I want to do all the hard stuff for my children? Of course. I could do their homework so they'd always get good grades, and I could deal with all the bullies myself. But I know if I do, they will never learn for themselves. I can teach them to the best of my ability, but they've got to do it for themselves if they're going to grow.
I've discovered that the best way for me to understand God has been through being a parent. I understand why God wants us to ask for blessings, even though He already knows what we want/need. I know why He doesn't stop all the bad things from happening. I know why He gets frustrated when we don't obey. I know why sometimes He says no. I know why He leaves some decisions up to us. I have a small inkling as to how He loves us so much.
I just have to work on being the kind of parent He is.
2.17.2009
This is really happening, I guess. Nothing I can do to stop it.
As I was laying in bed tonight, I was thinking about my kids. My sweet boys. I was telling Superman how the Hulk made me a pretend cookie earlier in the day. As I was relaying this story, the expression on the Hulk's face popped into my head. He brought me the pretend cookie and said, "It's a cookie for you, Mom!" I "ate" it, and he had such a look of pleasure on his face. He was so happy to have made me happy.
The Hulk has always been a little lover. (Or hater, but mostly lover.) He's a sweetheart. He loves to share things and hold babies. He's always willing to say he's sorry and give hugs. When his brother is crying, the Hulk runs to find Spiderman's blanket to help him feel better. He loves to help me in the kitchen or get my purse when it's time to go.
I wondered how much of this part of his personality would stay with him throughout his life. Would he always be a sweetheart? Or would growing older take that away from him?
And what about Spiderman? Just today he asked for some milk. I told him yes, but in a minute. A few minutes later, he came over and got on the couch. He pulled my face into his hands and got really close to my face. "Mom. I want some milk PLEASE." His eyes got really big and it was just so cute. How could I say no? How can I EVER say no when he looks at me like that?
As all this was running through my mind, I started to think, "I'm anxious to see what they'll be like as they grow -- how will they change? How will they stay the same?" And in the same instant, I also thought, "NO!!!! I am NOT anxious for them to grow up!!!! I want them to stay like this forever!!"
But I realized that wasn't completely true, either. I'm excited to see what kind of people they'll become, but I also want to freeze them just like they are right now. I'm excited to see them as they learn to read. And get baptized. My boys will pass the sacrament one day, and I know that day will be one full of pride for me. But when that day is here, they aren't going to be making me pretend food and presents anymore. They aren't going to need my kisses to make everything better. And by then they'll know that mommy kisses aren't really a cure-all. They'll have bigger problems with not-so-simple solutions.
And what kind of men are they going to be? What am I doing to ensure they turn out okay? I actually said to Superman, "I want them to play the piano. And read their scriptures everyday. And be nice.................Yeah. I suppose that about covers it." I want them to be perfect. Not that I have unrealistic expectations.......but I want them to be well-rounded. I know that mistakes are part of that process. I just don't want them to make big mistakes. (Of course I don't. What mother does?) But I need to be a better mother and teach them the things I want them to know.
As I laid in bed thinking of all these things, I could picture in my mind Spiderman in a white shirt and tie, getting ready to pass the sacrament. I could picture his face, and him being that tall and his shoulders starting to broaden. And it made me cry!!! I'm crying right now just thinking about it. I can't believe how much I want that day to come and how much I want that day to NEVER come!! How can these feeling exist side-by-side?
I suppose this is just the plight of motherhood. You have a baby and it turns your world completely upside down. Those first few weeks are the biggest culture shock of your life. You feel like you will never get a full night's sleep and you'll be breastfeeding forever. Then one day, you're baby's sitting up. Then they're crawling, then walking. Suddenly, you don't have a baby anymore. You've got a toddler.
And it doesn't stop!!! You go from a toddler to a talker to a Sunbeam and then kindgergarten......YOUR CHILD JUST KEEPS GROWING!!!! One night you realize that your child will get married one day and you'll be a grandma.
I actually had this happen to me just the other night. I was thinking about how big my kids were, and realized that it wasn't going to stop. I used to be just as young as them, and now I'm a mom. One day, they're going to be dads and I'm going to be a grandma. Not only are my kids going to keep getting older, but *I* am, too!!! Oh my gosh! When did this happen?!?!
It just doesn't stop. Life never stops. It makes me want to commit everything they do to memory. I don't want to forget these faces. These big trusting eyes. The way Spiderman has "Are you my mother" memorized. The way the Hulk imitates everything Spiderman says. These boys are so full of love and energy and laughter.......so easy to love. I need to hang on to that, because there are times it might be easy to forget how much I love them. Especially as they get older!!
What about you guys, those of you with kids? Are your kids young enough that you're still just anxious for them to grow a little more? Or are they old enough that you sometimes have a hard time remembering them at 3? I'm I the only one who's just now realizing that my kids are going to keep getting older, and me along with them?
And there's nothing I can do about it?
The Hulk has always been a little lover. (Or hater, but mostly lover.) He's a sweetheart. He loves to share things and hold babies. He's always willing to say he's sorry and give hugs. When his brother is crying, the Hulk runs to find Spiderman's blanket to help him feel better. He loves to help me in the kitchen or get my purse when it's time to go.
I wondered how much of this part of his personality would stay with him throughout his life. Would he always be a sweetheart? Or would growing older take that away from him?
And what about Spiderman? Just today he asked for some milk. I told him yes, but in a minute. A few minutes later, he came over and got on the couch. He pulled my face into his hands and got really close to my face. "Mom. I want some milk PLEASE." His eyes got really big and it was just so cute. How could I say no? How can I EVER say no when he looks at me like that?
As all this was running through my mind, I started to think, "I'm anxious to see what they'll be like as they grow -- how will they change? How will they stay the same?" And in the same instant, I also thought, "NO!!!! I am NOT anxious for them to grow up!!!! I want them to stay like this forever!!"
But I realized that wasn't completely true, either. I'm excited to see what kind of people they'll become, but I also want to freeze them just like they are right now. I'm excited to see them as they learn to read. And get baptized. My boys will pass the sacrament one day, and I know that day will be one full of pride for me. But when that day is here, they aren't going to be making me pretend food and presents anymore. They aren't going to need my kisses to make everything better. And by then they'll know that mommy kisses aren't really a cure-all. They'll have bigger problems with not-so-simple solutions.
And what kind of men are they going to be? What am I doing to ensure they turn out okay? I actually said to Superman, "I want them to play the piano. And read their scriptures everyday. And be nice.................Yeah. I suppose that about covers it." I want them to be perfect. Not that I have unrealistic expectations.......but I want them to be well-rounded. I know that mistakes are part of that process. I just don't want them to make big mistakes. (Of course I don't. What mother does?) But I need to be a better mother and teach them the things I want them to know.
As I laid in bed thinking of all these things, I could picture in my mind Spiderman in a white shirt and tie, getting ready to pass the sacrament. I could picture his face, and him being that tall and his shoulders starting to broaden. And it made me cry!!! I'm crying right now just thinking about it. I can't believe how much I want that day to come and how much I want that day to NEVER come!! How can these feeling exist side-by-side?
I suppose this is just the plight of motherhood. You have a baby and it turns your world completely upside down. Those first few weeks are the biggest culture shock of your life. You feel like you will never get a full night's sleep and you'll be breastfeeding forever. Then one day, you're baby's sitting up. Then they're crawling, then walking. Suddenly, you don't have a baby anymore. You've got a toddler.
And it doesn't stop!!! You go from a toddler to a talker to a Sunbeam and then kindgergarten......YOUR CHILD JUST KEEPS GROWING!!!! One night you realize that your child will get married one day and you'll be a grandma.
I actually had this happen to me just the other night. I was thinking about how big my kids were, and realized that it wasn't going to stop. I used to be just as young as them, and now I'm a mom. One day, they're going to be dads and I'm going to be a grandma. Not only are my kids going to keep getting older, but *I* am, too!!! Oh my gosh! When did this happen?!?!
It just doesn't stop. Life never stops. It makes me want to commit everything they do to memory. I don't want to forget these faces. These big trusting eyes. The way Spiderman has "Are you my mother" memorized. The way the Hulk imitates everything Spiderman says. These boys are so full of love and energy and laughter.......so easy to love. I need to hang on to that, because there are times it might be easy to forget how much I love them. Especially as they get older!!
What about you guys, those of you with kids? Are your kids young enough that you're still just anxious for them to grow a little more? Or are they old enough that you sometimes have a hard time remembering them at 3? I'm I the only one who's just now realizing that my kids are going to keep getting older, and me along with them?
And there's nothing I can do about it?
Creative input sought
(It's weird how I sometimes title my posts like a wanted ad.)
We've got an Enrichment activity Thursday night and I'm in charge of some getting-to-know-you games. I know what I want to do, but I need help with the specifics. So I'm asking you!!
We are going to do a purse scavenger hunt. We'll have small groups of women get together and try to find everything between all their purses. But what should I have them look for?
We're also going to do a game with lots of things you have to find out about other people. Should I do the game where there are like 25 squares with different things in them and you have to get singatures of people who have those things? Like "I have two sisters" or "I went to at least one year at BYU" or "I have traveled out of the country." (You know what I'm talking about? I don't think I'm describing this very eloquently.) We'd walk around, collecting signatures and signing others' cards. I think there's a time limit, too.
I could do it that way, or I could make a big list of lots of these things, and all the women would just sit in a circle and raise their hand when when we get to something they've done, then we see who's done the most, or something like that. (WOW that was along sentence.)
What do you think? Is what I'm describing clear enough to you? Which version do you think we should do? And what should I put on my list? I want LOTS and LOTS of ideas. Also tell me what to put on the purse scavenger hunt list. Please. Thanks for doing the hard part of my calling for me!!
p.s. Bachelor watchers: **Spoiler Alert!! If you haven't gotten around to your DVR yet, don't read this!!** Okay. I was totally bummed that Jason sent home Jillian. She and Molly were my picks for top two. I thought they meshed really well, but apparently Jason sees a better future with Molly or Melissa. I'm leaning toward Melissa......but he and Molly have had a better connection for a longer time. AND he's met her family, though they were pretty boring. But Melissa's family sounds boring, too. I see Melissa getting along with Ty better.--- What do you think of DeAnna coming back? The clips they show make her look really arrogant: "You haven't proposed yet. I'm still available. You wanted me before, and I am pretty great." She seems like she thinks she has dibbs on him, and doesn't even seem to consider that she BROKE HIS HEART and he's falling in love with other women!! Next week will be interesting. I'm also wondering why next week's "intimate reunion" looks like it will be a private taping with no audience. Very interesting, indeed.
We've got an Enrichment activity Thursday night and I'm in charge of some getting-to-know-you games. I know what I want to do, but I need help with the specifics. So I'm asking you!!
We are going to do a purse scavenger hunt. We'll have small groups of women get together and try to find everything between all their purses. But what should I have them look for?
We're also going to do a game with lots of things you have to find out about other people. Should I do the game where there are like 25 squares with different things in them and you have to get singatures of people who have those things? Like "I have two sisters" or "I went to at least one year at BYU" or "I have traveled out of the country." (You know what I'm talking about? I don't think I'm describing this very eloquently.) We'd walk around, collecting signatures and signing others' cards. I think there's a time limit, too.
I could do it that way, or I could make a big list of lots of these things, and all the women would just sit in a circle and raise their hand when when we get to something they've done, then we see who's done the most, or something like that. (WOW that was along sentence.)
What do you think? Is what I'm describing clear enough to you? Which version do you think we should do? And what should I put on my list? I want LOTS and LOTS of ideas. Also tell me what to put on the purse scavenger hunt list. Please. Thanks for doing the hard part of my calling for me!!
p.s. Bachelor watchers: **Spoiler Alert!! If you haven't gotten around to your DVR yet, don't read this!!** Okay. I was totally bummed that Jason sent home Jillian. She and Molly were my picks for top two. I thought they meshed really well, but apparently Jason sees a better future with Molly or Melissa. I'm leaning toward Melissa......but he and Molly have had a better connection for a longer time. AND he's met her family, though they were pretty boring. But Melissa's family sounds boring, too. I see Melissa getting along with Ty better.--- What do you think of DeAnna coming back? The clips they show make her look really arrogant: "You haven't proposed yet. I'm still available. You wanted me before, and I am pretty great." She seems like she thinks she has dibbs on him, and doesn't even seem to consider that she BROKE HIS HEART and he's falling in love with other women!! Next week will be interesting. I'm also wondering why next week's "intimate reunion" looks like it will be a private taping with no audience. Very interesting, indeed.
2.14.2009
All you need is love
I did a list of 25 things I love to hate. This is the list of 25 things I love to love.
9. So's giveaway -- lots of cute decor she made!!
10. Sher's giveaway. Did you know she also has a site just for her music?
14. mascara. lipstick. eyelash curlers. All make up, really.
1. A best friend who makes me laugh and works all day so I can stay home and blog.
2. Stephen Colbert (might've been #1 if he had a surprise planned for me today.)
3. David Cook LIVE
4. Jillian Michaels
5. youtube
6. babies asleep in my arms
7. McDreamy's "look"
8. clearance (especially Target) (Do you see that I got a pair of $33 boots for $8.24?!?)
9. Dr. Drew
9. So's giveaway -- lots of cute decor she made!!
10. Sher's giveaway. Did you know she also has a site just for her music?
12. little boys in capes made of blankets
13. singing and dancing in the car or while doing the dishes (this isn't me, but it could be!!)
14. mascara. lipstick. eyelash curlers. All make up, really.
15. Mucinex. This stuff WORKS. (Thanks for the tip, mom.)
16. Moms (mine, and all the hot mamas I know!)
17. MOO-SAK.
18. absorbent training pants
19. Valentine's Day and almost perfect pancakes
21. all things chocolate. Even Death by Chocolate. Not a bad way to go.
22. painted walls (this is where I sit to read your blogs!)
23. Putting cold feet on Superman's warm body. I know, it's sadistic. I just can't help myself.
24. chiropractors
25. comments
2.13.2009
....it's Friday, so it's random......plus a mix tape
My boys have been watch Cinderella lately. The constant din of the classic has raised a few questions for me:
Why is Cinderella the "sweetest story ever told"? 'Cuz a man "fell in love" with her after an hour of dancing, but still didn't know her name? Or because she was a pushover and let her stepmom treat her unfairly? Is it because the animals were so willing to help? Okay.........then isn't Lassie the sweetest story ever told? And why do only the mice talk? Anyone else find that weird? Is it sweet because the Fairy Godmother came to help her? Isn't that kind of her job? You don't think your dentist is sweet for doing that root canal.
I'm just sayin'.
And it is SO illogical for the King to announce a ball for that night. Seriously. Handwritten, hand delivered invites went out the same day? Right. Obviously a man thought this one up.
I don't know when I became so cynical.
It just makes me want to watch Ever After. Now there's a good movie, and completely believeable. (Yes, I know that was the point of the the movie. I'm just saying they accomplished their objective.) The ball came at the end of the week. And he didn't know her name because she didn't give him her real name. Leonardo da Vinci makes a perfect fairy godmother. (Wasn't he gay?) LOVE Marguerite's red stockings. And Danielle carrying the prince away from the gypsies. And the part with the Spanish princess cracks me up everytime!!!! Those sobs are Oscar-worthy.
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You may or may not have seen this yesterday, but the dog chewed my phone. The phone that I got 2 months ago. The phone that replaced the one my children dunked in a glass or water. The phone that we didn't want to get insurance on because we thought it was a waste of money.
It still works. Luckily Spiderman pointed out to me what he was chewing on almost as soon as he got it. He didn't mess up the part where I plug in the charger. This is all good. But I nearly swore and kicked the dog when I saw what he had done!!!! I put them outside immediately and was kinda happy it was snowing. (I am a horrible person.) I don't know what to do. We bought them chew toys that they don't like. They'd rather chew on toilet paper, clean or dirty diapers, socks, shoes, sippies (I actually lost one to a dog this week,) and anything else they can get their paws on.
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About my wisdom teeth. The one that's broken through is crooked. The root is touching my molar. I've made a dentist appointment for Monday. I'm pretty sure I'm going to have them removed because the dentist wanted to do it a year ago. But I was already getting a root canal and 3 fillings, so I decided to wait.
Anyway. Just thought I'd update you all.
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A few days ago Shanana did a Ooey, Gooey, Sappy Songs post and confessed songs she sings in the shower.
Don't deny it. I know you sing in the shower. Or have at least once. There are some morning that just beg for a song. Most of the time I'm singing into the mist, I'm warming up my voice for choir that day. Or singing "Oh, what a beautiful morning!" on a particularly great sunny day.
But ooey, gooey sappy songs? They are my FAVORITE to sing. I don't know what it is about the shower -- the locked door? The steam? The running water that makes you think your voice is muffled? -- but I always feel safe and confident behind that lovely curtain. Some songs I've been known to belt out (mostly just the choruses):
Why is Cinderella the "sweetest story ever told"? 'Cuz a man "fell in love" with her after an hour of dancing, but still didn't know her name? Or because she was a pushover and let her stepmom treat her unfairly? Is it because the animals were so willing to help? Okay.........then isn't Lassie the sweetest story ever told? And why do only the mice talk? Anyone else find that weird? Is it sweet because the Fairy Godmother came to help her? Isn't that kind of her job? You don't think your dentist is sweet for doing that root canal.
I'm just sayin'.
And it is SO illogical for the King to announce a ball for that night. Seriously. Handwritten, hand delivered invites went out the same day? Right. Obviously a man thought this one up.
I don't know when I became so cynical.
It just makes me want to watch Ever After. Now there's a good movie, and completely believeable. (Yes, I know that was the point of the the movie. I'm just saying they accomplished their objective.) The ball came at the end of the week. And he didn't know her name because she didn't give him her real name. Leonardo da Vinci makes a perfect fairy godmother. (Wasn't he gay?) LOVE Marguerite's red stockings. And Danielle carrying the prince away from the gypsies. And the part with the Spanish princess cracks me up everytime!!!! Those sobs are Oscar-worthy.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
You may or may not have seen this yesterday, but the dog chewed my phone. The phone that I got 2 months ago. The phone that replaced the one my children dunked in a glass or water. The phone that we didn't want to get insurance on because we thought it was a waste of money.
It still works. Luckily Spiderman pointed out to me what he was chewing on almost as soon as he got it. He didn't mess up the part where I plug in the charger. This is all good. But I nearly swore and kicked the dog when I saw what he had done!!!! I put them outside immediately and was kinda happy it was snowing. (I am a horrible person.) I don't know what to do. We bought them chew toys that they don't like. They'd rather chew on toilet paper, clean or dirty diapers, socks, shoes, sippies (I actually lost one to a dog this week,) and anything else they can get their paws on.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
About my wisdom teeth. The one that's broken through is crooked. The root is touching my molar. I've made a dentist appointment for Monday. I'm pretty sure I'm going to have them removed because the dentist wanted to do it a year ago. But I was already getting a root canal and 3 fillings, so I decided to wait.
Anyway. Just thought I'd update you all.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A few days ago Shanana did a Ooey, Gooey, Sappy Songs post and confessed songs she sings in the shower.
Don't deny it. I know you sing in the shower. Or have at least once. There are some morning that just beg for a song. Most of the time I'm singing into the mist, I'm warming up my voice for choir that day. Or singing "Oh, what a beautiful morning!" on a particularly great sunny day.
But ooey, gooey sappy songs? They are my FAVORITE to sing. I don't know what it is about the shower -- the locked door? The steam? The running water that makes you think your voice is muffled? -- but I always feel safe and confident behind that lovely curtain. Some songs I've been known to belt out (mostly just the choruses):
Music Playlist at MixPod.com
• "Come what may," from Moulin Rouge. Sometimes I put my husband's name in. "SUUUUU PER MAAAAAAAAN!! I will love you till my dying daaaaaaaaaaaaay!!" Except his real name actually fits and rhymes, so it's funny.
• "Natural Woman" by Aretha Franklin. Whenever I hear the chorus, I think of that hair dye commercial from the 90s where the woman runs into the living room singing the song into her hairbrush and doesn't realize her husband's home. Hilarious! And I just BELT OUT that chorus when I'm rinsing out my shampoo.
• "Power of Love," by Celine Dion "'Cause I'm your LAAAAAAADAAAAAAAEEEEEE!!! And you are my MAAaaaAAAaaann!!!!"
• Alicia Keyes' "No One." I don't know what it is about her voice, 'cuz I get the same urge to sing along on "Fallin'" and I also can't stop my body from moving to the beat.
So now I want to hear yours!!! What are the sappy love songs you sing in the shower? Or the not-so-sappy love songs? Show tunes, anyone?
2.12.2009
Prepping for Saturday
In the spirit of upcoming Singles' Awareness Day, I'm doing this "25 things I love to hate" thing.
1. Doing the dishes.
2. Dogs chewing or eating anything they can find. (Including the last of the chocolate chip cookies. This is something I REALLY love to hate.) I just caught Max chewing my phone. That dog is lucky to still be alive.
3. Songs that talk about wanting to cheat. i.e. Lips of an Angel by Hinder or Thinking of You by Katie Perry. I mean, seriously. It bugs me that people write songs like that.
4. Messes being made every time I look around. (They're in my face!)
5. Songs I like that have swear words in them, because then I can't sing along.
6. Lack of a DVR.
7. Aunt Flo. (Am I right, ladies? And gents?)
8. Muddy pawprints every day.
9. Picky eaters.
10. When kids get older.
11. Fox news.
12. MSNBC.
13. Not having an overhead light in my living room. You can only get have so many lamps before it starts looking ridiculous.
14. Intriguing movies that are rated-R. Just once, I'd like to see all Oscar-nominated films for the year.
15. Bikini girl. SO glad she's gone.
16. When my husband's right and I'm wrong. (Not that that ever happens. I'm just saying if it DID, I'd hate it.)
17. Waking up (and being woken up) before the alarm.
18. Drivers who run red lights. Yes, I do live in Utah? How'd you guess?
19. People who pull in the wrong way at the gas pump. (When there are arrows telling you which way to go and they deliberately ignore them.)
20. Running out of ice cream.
21. Catching spelling/grammatical errors that *I've* made and published. Especially in comments because I don't want to delete a comment, but I feel stupid making another comment to correct my error. Or when my post has been up for 9 hours and I catch a mistake.
22. Mice. {{shudder}}
23. Stretch marks.
24. Dogs underfoot, panting in my face while kids climb all over me and the computer desk. CAN'T A MOM GET A MOMENT TO BLOG?!?!
25. Anonymous commenters who insinuate that my children run wild while I blog. It's like they're watching me, and that's creepy.
Reason #214 I love F•R•I•E•N•D•S
This may or may not have been my guide to administering pink eye medication the past few days.
2.11.2009
Hope and Change
Go back with me for a moment to January 20th. Inauguration day.
That night Superman asked me, "Did you check the mail today?"
"Um, yeah......why?"
"Well, I was promised hope and change. I just wondered if it had come yet."
Here it is, love. At least half of it.
That night Superman asked me, "Did you check the mail today?"
"Um, yeah......why?"
"Well, I was promised hope and change. I just wondered if it had come yet."
Here it is, love. At least half of it.
2.10.2009
Seeking wisdom from wise bloggers
About wisdom teeth. Mine are coming in, and I most definately don't have room for them. Is having them removed absolutely necessary? Or is it just a common procedure now and everyone does it because it's what you do?
Should I just buck up and schedule an appointment and stock up on jello and ice cream? Or can I wait?
p.s. My kids have pink eye and ear infections. Yay for being cooped up for a few days.
Should I just buck up and schedule an appointment and stock up on jello and ice cream? Or can I wait?
p.s. My kids have pink eye and ear infections. Yay for being cooped up for a few days.
2.09.2009
Katie Couric
What do you think of her new haircut? She doesn't look as cute, but I think that's what her people were going for -- more hard-hitting. I feel bad for the girl. She went to being the sweetheart of morning news to the least-watched evening news person.
Anyway. This post really isn't about Katie Couric. A little while ago, my friend Wendy did an interview post. It's like a tag but better because if you want to be interviewed, the person has to come up with questions specific to you. It's a really fun way to get to know more about your fellow blogger friends.
Do you want to play along and get interviewed too? Here's what to do:
1. Leave me a comment saying, "Interview me."
2. I will respond by emailing you five questions. (I get to pick the questions).
3. You will update your blog with the answers to the questions.
4. You will include this explanation and an offer to interview someone else in the same post.
5. When others comment asking to be interviewed, you will ask them five questions.
So here are Wendy's questions for me:
1. What do you love most about your SUPERMAN? Oh my......what do I love most? Probably that he makes me laugh, but we can also engage in intelligent or spiritual conversations. He keeps me stimulated on all levels.
2. Not all of us always get everything done on our "to do" list everyday. On any given day, what things need to happen in order for you to feel productive, and that you've had a good day? Well, I definately don't get everything done everyday!! I've been doing better lately, but yesterday I didn't really do anything around the house. I rarely make to do lists, but if I can tidy the living room, vacuum, do the dishes and keep the kitchen counter clean I feel like I've been productive enough. I'm also trying to keep bedrooms tidy right now.........we'll see how long I can keep that up!!
3. What do you like to do for fun, (other than being on the computer blogging, or doing anything with facebook)? I enjoy spending time with friends. That's really fun for me. Whether it's at our weekly playgroup, or scrapbooking with friends, or hanging out in the evenings playing games. I like being social and interacting with others. (I huge plus of blogging, I might add!) I love reading and watching my shows, but that's not as fun as much as it's what I do when I'm bored at home.
4. I know you play the piano and organ, but what I don't know is how long you had lessons, and how long you've been playing? How old were you when you started taking lessons? And do you want to teach your sons how to play someday? I started piano lessons in second grade. And I've loved it from the beginning. I actually broke my arm in the 3rd grade and tried really hard to play while I was in a cast. We got a Children's Songbook from church and I learned to play lots of songs in there. I learned to play and sing at the same time doing that. I started playing the organ at 18, and took a class at BYU-Idaho for it, but that's the only formal study I've done of the organ.
Anyway. This post really isn't about Katie Couric. A little while ago, my friend Wendy did an interview post. It's like a tag but better because if you want to be interviewed, the person has to come up with questions specific to you. It's a really fun way to get to know more about your fellow blogger friends.
Do you want to play along and get interviewed too? Here's what to do:
1. Leave me a comment saying, "Interview me."
2. I will respond by emailing you five questions. (I get to pick the questions).
3. You will update your blog with the answers to the questions.
4. You will include this explanation and an offer to interview someone else in the same post.
5. When others comment asking to be interviewed, you will ask them five questions.
So here are Wendy's questions for me:
1. What do you love most about your SUPERMAN? Oh my......what do I love most? Probably that he makes me laugh, but we can also engage in intelligent or spiritual conversations. He keeps me stimulated on all levels.
2. Not all of us always get everything done on our "to do" list everyday. On any given day, what things need to happen in order for you to feel productive, and that you've had a good day? Well, I definately don't get everything done everyday!! I've been doing better lately, but yesterday I didn't really do anything around the house. I rarely make to do lists, but if I can tidy the living room, vacuum, do the dishes and keep the kitchen counter clean I feel like I've been productive enough. I'm also trying to keep bedrooms tidy right now.........we'll see how long I can keep that up!!
3. What do you like to do for fun, (other than being on the computer blogging, or doing anything with facebook)? I enjoy spending time with friends. That's really fun for me. Whether it's at our weekly playgroup, or scrapbooking with friends, or hanging out in the evenings playing games. I like being social and interacting with others. (I huge plus of blogging, I might add!) I love reading and watching my shows, but that's not as fun as much as it's what I do when I'm bored at home.
4. I know you play the piano and organ, but what I don't know is how long you had lessons, and how long you've been playing? How old were you when you started taking lessons? And do you want to teach your sons how to play someday? I started piano lessons in second grade. And I've loved it from the beginning. I actually broke my arm in the 3rd grade and tried really hard to play while I was in a cast. We got a Children's Songbook from church and I learned to play lots of songs in there. I learned to play and sing at the same time doing that. I started playing the organ at 18, and took a class at BYU-Idaho for it, but that's the only formal study I've done of the organ.
I would love to teach my boys someday. I would love to have a piano some day!!! We have a keyboard that I pull out every now and then that the boys love to play on. I think especially in our church, being able to play the piano is a valuable skill. And I've never met anyone that wishes they hadn't taken lessons. Most regret not sticking with it. Even the guys I know that play -- they are so glad their mothers forced them to stick with it. So......yeah. I want to teach my children.
5. Where have you lived throughout the course of your life so far? How long have you been in Utah? I was born and raised in Wichita, Kansas. It's in the SE corner of the state. It's the largest city in Kansas (the biggest part of Kansas City is in Missouri), so it's not a small town. About 350,000 people. At 18 I moved to Idaho to attend school, then got married and moved to Provo, UT just before I turned 20. We've been here for the last 5 1/2 years.
Great questions, Wendy! It was fun to do this. If any of you want to play along, just leave a comment and tell me you want to be interviewed. And if your e-mail isn't attached to your google account (which it should be!!) be sure to leave your address so I can send you questions.
2.07.2009
I can't even tell you why I'm doing this, except that I feel compelled.
This is that cursed 25 random things tag. I've been tagged by about 63 people on facebook to do this. I wasn't random yesterday, and I need my weekly dose of randomness. And I've seen this so much that I literally feel compelled to do it. So here it is. 25 random things about Wonder Woman.
1. I miss sitcoms. I basically watch dramas and reality TV now, and I miss 30 min. sitcoms with laugh tracks.
2. When I see/hear an actor I recognize but can't place, IT KILLS ME. I am consumed with trying to place what else they've been in. Usually I end up on yahoo movies, looking up everything they've been in.
3. I've kept my house basically clean for 13 days. I ROCK. I am also very lame for thinking this is an extraordinary accomplishment.
4. I'm the ward organist. This is a calling I have held in 5 different wards since I was 18.
5. There is so much fog out my window right now that I can barely see the houses at the end of the cul-de-sac.
6. I wrote for the BYU-Idaho Scroll (newspaper) for a year, earning a scholarship. I got to attend General Conference and sit in press box as assistant editor for the Religion section.
7. When I was in college my major was English Education (Iwanted to teach high school English), but if I went back to school now, I would study journalism.
8. I love funky socks.
9. I have a scar on my thigh from trying to iron a cheerleading skirt with a curling iron while I was wearing the skirt.
10. I don't like Chinese food. I like it from P.F. Chang's, but that's the only Chinese restaurant I like.
11. I hate that on facebook you have to invite friends before seeing results or accepting an application. It makes me want to ignore every request from everyone!!!
12. I'm the oldest of 3 kids, and only girl.
13. Superman's the oldest of 3 kids, and only boy.
14. These facts make for an interesting dynamic in our marriage. Luckily, we're also both non-confrontational, to the point of being passive-aggressive.
15. I crushed on all the missionaries in our ward as a teenager. (Hey -- growing up in Kansas was tough!!) At 14, I was actually convinced that one was going to come back and marry me. Turns out he was a MAJOR flirt with all the girls in our stake.
16. I did not just look him up on facebook.
17. I was sent to the principal's office once in grade school. My friends and I were in line for a tetherball pole, and a kid cut in front of us. He and I got into it -- I scratched his arm really hard. Going to the principal's office was scary, but she didn't do anything to us except tell us not to fight. To this day, I don't like the Adam.
18. My sister-in-law has been my best friend since we were 16. Even when her brother and I broke up, we stayed best friends. (We eventually got back together and got married.) This picture is of us on the day she left for BYU-Idaho. ---->
19. Sometimes I want to attach a video camera to my forehead to record my days. Basically to record my kids. I don't ever want to forget how cute they are at this age.
20. My favorite movie, possibly of all time, is The Notebook.
21. Every person I have ever been best friends with was born in February. My brother, my husband, my SIL, my elementary school BF, my middle school BF, and a BF I've known since 2nd grade that I'm still close to were all born in February. My mom and one other girl are the only exceptions to this. Isn't that weird?
22. I drink hot chocolate every day during the winter.
23. I love wearing costumes and playing different characters.
24. I have only ever bought one thing online. A version of Cranium called Hoopla. Basically, instead of being on opposing teams, everyone is on the same team and racing against the timer.
25. I'm going to Tucanos for the first time tonight (Superman's office "Christmas" party) and I don't know what to order. I like chicken. Any suggestions?
1. I miss sitcoms. I basically watch dramas and reality TV now, and I miss 30 min. sitcoms with laugh tracks.2. When I see/hear an actor I recognize but can't place, IT KILLS ME. I am consumed with trying to place what else they've been in. Usually I end up on yahoo movies, looking up everything they've been in.
3. I've kept my house basically clean for 13 days. I ROCK. I am also very lame for thinking this is an extraordinary accomplishment.
4. I'm the ward organist. This is a calling I have held in 5 different wards since I was 18.
5. There is so much fog out my window right now that I can barely see the houses at the end of the cul-de-sac.
6. I wrote for the BYU-Idaho Scroll (newspaper) for a year, earning a scholarship. I got to attend General Conference and sit in press box as assistant editor for the Religion section.
7. When I was in college my major was English Education (Iwanted to teach high school English), but if I went back to school now, I would study journalism.
8. I love funky socks.9. I have a scar on my thigh from trying to iron a cheerleading skirt with a curling iron while I was wearing the skirt.
10. I don't like Chinese food. I like it from P.F. Chang's, but that's the only Chinese restaurant I like.
11. I hate that on facebook you have to invite friends before seeing results or accepting an application. It makes me want to ignore every request from everyone!!!
12. I'm the oldest of 3 kids, and only girl.
13. Superman's the oldest of 3 kids, and only boy.
14. These facts make for an interesting dynamic in our marriage. Luckily, we're also both non-confrontational, to the point of being passive-aggressive.
15. I crushed on all the missionaries in our ward as a teenager. (Hey -- growing up in Kansas was tough!!) At 14, I was actually convinced that one was going to come back and marry me. Turns out he was a MAJOR flirt with all the girls in our stake.16. I did not just look him up on facebook.
17. I was sent to the principal's office once in grade school. My friends and I were in line for a tetherball pole, and a kid cut in front of us. He and I got into it -- I scratched his arm really hard. Going to the principal's office was scary, but she didn't do anything to us except tell us not to fight. To this day, I don't like the Adam.
18. My sister-in-law has been my best friend since we were 16. Even when her brother and I broke up, we stayed best friends. (We eventually got back together and got married.) This picture is of us on the day she left for BYU-Idaho. ---->19. Sometimes I want to attach a video camera to my forehead to record my days. Basically to record my kids. I don't ever want to forget how cute they are at this age.
20. My favorite movie, possibly of all time, is The Notebook.
21. Every person I have ever been best friends with was born in February. My brother, my husband, my SIL, my elementary school BF, my middle school BF, and a BF I've known since 2nd grade that I'm still close to were all born in February. My mom and one other girl are the only exceptions to this. Isn't that weird?
22. I drink hot chocolate every day during the winter.
23. I love wearing costumes and playing different characters.
24. I have only ever bought one thing online. A version of Cranium called Hoopla. Basically, instead of being on opposing teams, everyone is on the same team and racing against the timer.
25. I'm going to Tucanos for the first time tonight (Superman's office "Christmas" party) and I don't know what to order. I like chicken. Any suggestions?
2.06.2009
pillow talk
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Wonder Woman: So the famous Sue is doing a Very Funny Friday again today.Superman: You want me to write something for you? I'm a funny guy.
WW: Yes, you're very funny. Now shut up.
Now for the real story:
(laying in bed)
WW: Oh. I am so tired. I am so glad this day is over.
S: Me, too. I'm wiped out. *starts to fall asleep*
WW: And it's not like I did anything today. Why is staying home with kids so exhausting?
S: Hmm? I don't know. *starts falling asleep again*
WW: Oh, did I tell you what Spiderman said today? He starting saying he was scared of spiders. It's so funny. He acts like he's scared and covers up with his blanket, trying to hide from the spiders.
S: no repsonse
WW: (louder) Hey, isn't that funny, Superman? Him thinking he's scared of spiders?
S: Spiders huh? *goes back to sleeping*
WW: I thought he was serious for a little bit, like your fear of snakes. You know what my biggest fear is?
S: *Wakes up* .......no........
WW: My biggest fear is you dying and I'd have to be in the world without you. I know we'll be together in heaven but...still that would suck. What are most afraid of? I mean, I know you're scared of snakes, but what are you really afraid of?
S: (takes a deep breath and say in a voice full of fear) I'm scared, so scared ...........that you're never going to shut up.
2.05.2009
I want people
(actual conversation)
Wonder Woman: Superman, do you think we should stick with Liberty Taxes for our taxes this year?
Superman: Why not? We've been with them for the last few years.
Wonder: Yeah, but this year we have your dog training business, and they only have ONE person in the entire office who can do it for us.
Supes: All you need is one person to do your taxes.
Wonder: I know, but I want PEOPLE!!!
We went a few days ago and completed our return. This is our first full year as non-student homeowners with a real job. It's also our smallest return ever. 1/10th what we received two years ago. Feels like we aren't getting anything!!!
And then last night, I saw an H&R block commercial saying that in 4 out of 5 returns they reviewed done by other people, they found deductions that were missed. I know there's more we could have written off for Superman's dog training business, but we just don't have record of it. (No receipts.)
Should we take our return to H&R Block and have them check it? Do you have people?
Wonder Woman: Superman, do you think we should stick with Liberty Taxes for our taxes this year?
Superman: Why not? We've been with them for the last few years.
Wonder: Yeah, but this year we have your dog training business, and they only have ONE person in the entire office who can do it for us.
Supes: All you need is one person to do your taxes.
Wonder: I know, but I want PEOPLE!!!
We went a few days ago and completed our return. This is our first full year as non-student homeowners with a real job. It's also our smallest return ever. 1/10th what we received two years ago. Feels like we aren't getting anything!!!
And then last night, I saw an H&R block commercial saying that in 4 out of 5 returns they reviewed done by other people, they found deductions that were missed. I know there's more we could have written off for Superman's dog training business, but we just don't have record of it. (No receipts.)
Should we take our return to H&R Block and have them check it? Do you have people?
Lolli's giveaway!
Lolli, that sweet thang, is giving away a CD and hoodie! They're both from He's Just Not That Into You, which I SO want to see. It's great stuff!
2.03.2009
Tell me what you REALLY think
I'm in one of those indecisive, I-want-it-all-but-do-I-really-want-change? moods. About my blog.
I was shamelessly lurking around MMB and saw all kinds of great things. And it got me thinking.
I think I want a new background. Pretty sure I'm ready for a new header. I'm contemplating going to three columns again. Maybe a new title? And I want to funnier. And deeper. And have better stories. And and and......
And I'm not sure AT ALL what direction I would go with a makeover. I like the pseudonym I have, but maybe I should give it up it I have a new title/theme for our family? This blog is honestly not as much about my family as it is about me. Maybe I should just admit to that. I'm not too concerned with security -- a few weeks ago I realized my blog and facebook page are link, eliminating any secrecy I was attempting.
I once considered being "Alyssa things to do" because it sounds like "A list of things to do," which is pretty much the story of my life. It's also kinda fun to think that my blog is full of things "Alyssa" would do. But would people get it? If I did that, I'd give up our families nicknames. I think they're fun, but without a superhero theme, it just sounds like I think I'm the best thing EVER and my son's fat. (Not the case, on either account!)
April's going to do a header for me, and I don't know what I want her to do.
What do you think? Feel free to vote in my little poll. Should I just stick with what I have? Does "Alyssa things to do" even make sense to anyone besides me? What do you think of me calling myself wonder woman? Am I the only one who wants a blog makeover every month?
And seriously, I want to hear ALL your thoughts on the matter. Feel free to go anonymous if you don't want me to know it's you thinking my blog is lame. So LAY IT ON ME!!!
I was shamelessly lurking around MMB and saw all kinds of great things. And it got me thinking.
I think I want a new background. Pretty sure I'm ready for a new header. I'm contemplating going to three columns again. Maybe a new title? And I want to funnier. And deeper. And have better stories. And and and......
And I'm not sure AT ALL what direction I would go with a makeover. I like the pseudonym I have, but maybe I should give it up it I have a new title/theme for our family? This blog is honestly not as much about my family as it is about me. Maybe I should just admit to that. I'm not too concerned with security -- a few weeks ago I realized my blog and facebook page are link, eliminating any secrecy I was attempting.
I once considered being "Alyssa things to do" because it sounds like "A list of things to do," which is pretty much the story of my life. It's also kinda fun to think that my blog is full of things "Alyssa" would do. But would people get it? If I did that, I'd give up our families nicknames. I think they're fun, but without a superhero theme, it just sounds like I think I'm the best thing EVER and my son's fat. (Not the case, on either account!)
April's going to do a header for me, and I don't know what I want her to do.
What do you think? Feel free to vote in my little poll. Should I just stick with what I have? Does "Alyssa things to do" even make sense to anyone besides me? What do you think of me calling myself wonder woman? Am I the only one who wants a blog makeover every month?
And seriously, I want to hear ALL your thoughts on the matter. Feel free to go anonymous if you don't want me to know it's you thinking my blog is lame. So LAY IT ON ME!!!
2.02.2009
Tender mercies are real
I'm putting together a musical presentation for our Relief Society birthday celebration next month. As a teenager, I participated in a Women at the Well presentation that I wanted to replicate. So today I went in search of the songbook and performance track for the program.
I went to the largest Deseret Book close to me. They didn't have the songbook, and they didn't have the performance track. Great. The sales associate was really helpful, and found another location that had the songbook. She called and asked them to hold it for me. But the performance track was completely out of print, and not in any stores, which meant I would have to find someone to play all the music. (I and a few other people in the ward can play piano, but most of the pianists also sing, and I need singers! This was getting so complicated.)
As I was browsing through the CDs, trying to figure out what to do, I saw the Women of Destiny CD. I remembered that a few years ago, my parents had bought me the songbook. Maybe I could do that! (Do any of you know the Women of Destiny songs? They're beautiful and so perfect for and RS dinner.) I asked the clerk to see if a performance track was ever made. She said it had been made, but was out of print. (Again.) She checked to see if any of the stores had a copy or two, and found that that store might have one. I went and checked......and there it was!! The one copy in probably the entire county, if not more! I was so excited. This was meant to be.
I went to check out, still not quite sure what I was going to do. Because I didn't really have the money to pay for it. The CD was $20, which is exactly what I had left of my cash. But that money already had a purpose -- I was saving it for a babysitter for this weekend. (It's Superman's office "Christmas" party. We've already committed to going, and we have to have a babysitter.)
I thought about maybe turing in the receipt for reimbursement, then giving the CD to our Relief Society. But I wasn't crazy about that idea -- when would the ward ever use it again, especially without the songbook? And to be honest, I wanted to keep it in case I ever want to do this again! I was envisioning the "discussion" Superman and I would have about it. I've been so good about sticking to our budget that I really didn't want to blow it, but I also didn't see another option.
All this was running through my mind as the cashier was ringing me up. (All that plus this kids trying to run out of the store into the mall, or climb the *glass shelves* to reach the jelly beans. Seriously. What was I thinking bringing the kids without the stroller?) Anyway. So I'm trying to think how I'm going to explain my expenditure to Superman when the cashier says, "Well, this must be your lucky day. This CD is clearanced to $1.49!"
Gasp! "Oh my gosh! That's incredible! This really is my lucky day!" I was dumbfounded.
This is a tender mercy, I thought. God knew I was trying to stick to my budget, and he blessed me for it!!
Just that morning, I had been thinking of alternate songs we could sing if I couldn't pull off the Women at the Well, and one popped into my head. It's called "When I Feel His Love," and it's written by Janice Kapp Perry. It was sung in a Relief Society General Broadcast a few years ago.
"Quite times of revelation tune my heart to see
Tender mercies of the Lord are daily shown to me."
As this lyric ran through my head, I actually thought, When was the last time I recognized a tender mercy? and I couldn't think of one. Not that God hadn't extended them to me, but simply that I hadn't recognized any.
So that's why I'm writing this down. This experience was most definately a tender mercy for me.
I went to the largest Deseret Book close to me. They didn't have the songbook, and they didn't have the performance track. Great. The sales associate was really helpful, and found another location that had the songbook. She called and asked them to hold it for me. But the performance track was completely out of print, and not in any stores, which meant I would have to find someone to play all the music. (I and a few other people in the ward can play piano, but most of the pianists also sing, and I need singers! This was getting so complicated.)
As I was browsing through the CDs, trying to figure out what to do, I saw the Women of Destiny CD. I remembered that a few years ago, my parents had bought me the songbook. Maybe I could do that! (Do any of you know the Women of Destiny songs? They're beautiful and so perfect for and RS dinner.) I asked the clerk to see if a performance track was ever made. She said it had been made, but was out of print. (Again.) She checked to see if any of the stores had a copy or two, and found that that store might have one. I went and checked......and there it was!! The one copy in probably the entire county, if not more! I was so excited. This was meant to be.
I went to check out, still not quite sure what I was going to do. Because I didn't really have the money to pay for it. The CD was $20, which is exactly what I had left of my cash. But that money already had a purpose -- I was saving it for a babysitter for this weekend. (It's Superman's office "Christmas" party. We've already committed to going, and we have to have a babysitter.)
I thought about maybe turing in the receipt for reimbursement, then giving the CD to our Relief Society. But I wasn't crazy about that idea -- when would the ward ever use it again, especially without the songbook? And to be honest, I wanted to keep it in case I ever want to do this again! I was envisioning the "discussion" Superman and I would have about it. I've been so good about sticking to our budget that I really didn't want to blow it, but I also didn't see another option.
All this was running through my mind as the cashier was ringing me up. (All that plus this kids trying to run out of the store into the mall, or climb the *glass shelves* to reach the jelly beans. Seriously. What was I thinking bringing the kids without the stroller?) Anyway. So I'm trying to think how I'm going to explain my expenditure to Superman when the cashier says, "Well, this must be your lucky day. This CD is clearanced to $1.49!"
Gasp! "Oh my gosh! That's incredible! This really is my lucky day!" I was dumbfounded.
This is a tender mercy, I thought. God knew I was trying to stick to my budget, and he blessed me for it!!
Just that morning, I had been thinking of alternate songs we could sing if I couldn't pull off the Women at the Well, and one popped into my head. It's called "When I Feel His Love," and it's written by Janice Kapp Perry. It was sung in a Relief Society General Broadcast a few years ago.
"Quite times of revelation tune my heart to see
Tender mercies of the Lord are daily shown to me."
As this lyric ran through my head, I actually thought, When was the last time I recognized a tender mercy? and I couldn't think of one. Not that God hadn't extended them to me, but simply that I hadn't recognized any.
So that's why I'm writing this down. This experience was most definately a tender mercy for me.
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