Since I mentioned this in the previous post I wanted to share the clip from October of C & J singing
A place to record family moments, memories, recipes, & the general random thoughts of Mrs. Baker
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Songs for Each of Us
Couples often have their songs that mean a lot to them. In my family though everyone has a song or several. My mom has songs for each of her children, for events, and for different moods, and she passed this habit on to me. Whenever something big happens it gets a song. I don't remember all the songs I've favored at different points in my life offhand, but then one will surprise me on the radio and I'm taken back to that moment and what was going on in my mind.
My Mom has told me my song and my sister and brother's songs several times and even though I wasn't there or at least wasn't able to remember those births the songs say so much about where she was in life then and what she was feeling. For my sister the song is "For Once in my Life." The Lyrics start with "For once in my life I have someone who needs me. Someone I've needed so long. For once, unafraid, I can go where life leads me. And somehow I know I'll be strong." Now that I have my own kids I imagine the feelings of C's birth and the birth that first made me a Mommy and I can imagine my Mom looking at my sister in her arms and those same feelings. My brother's song is "You are my Sunshine." This is the perfect song for her happy blond baby boy who surprised her coming early and only 15 months after his big sis, for the son who she still sees as her baby boy though he towers above her now.
My mom was at a much different point in her life when she had me (16 years after her first, 15 years after her second) and our song reflects this too. Our song is "You and me against the world" by Helen Reddy. It begins "You and me against the world, Sometimes it seems like you and me against the world, When all the others turn their backs and walked away,You can count on me to stay." Again this is the perfect song to show how it felt growing up like Mom and I were a partnership, best friends as well as Mother and daughter. Facing whatever came along together. Another part of the lyrics that stands out as perfect for us again "And for all the times we've cried I always felt that God was on our side." My mother's faith astounds me and she has always been a great reminder to let go and let God, that He is always watching over us, and to trust in Him.
As I was growing up I found other songs along the way. I remember when my grandfather passed away my mom and I heard "God is Watching us, from a distance" on the radio and that still brings me comfort when missing him and other family members that have passed since.
I found my song for my father and I which we danced to at my wedding: "I loved her first" by Heartland. I also had other songs for both my parents. I still remember several "Honky tonk" and older country songs which bring me back to making breakfast in my Dad's kitchen and us dancing as I stood on his feet and he guided us in circles. I also still sing several of the lullabies my Mom used for me to my children now. "Sweetest Little Fella," "Hush Little Baby," and "Rise and Shine" still remind me of those moments when my Mom would help me out of the bath, wrap me up in a towel and rock me and sing to me before bedtime.
My mom shared more of her songs with me too. Her favorites are "Rhapsody in Blue" and "Chariots of Fire" both which don't have lyrics, but will always remind me of her and put me in the mood to sit and relax or set off running as they do for her.
My husband and I found our own songs early in dating. Our first one was Linkin Park's "My December" when we first met in December and when we were chatting online and my screen name included December as well, then almost a year later we found "When you say nothing at all" which is the song we can't hear without stopping to dance together. I still remember when we first heard it. We were in a store in the Asheville mall and it came over the loud speakers and we started dancing in the middle of the store. It was like everything around us disappeared and it was only us dancing in the clouds. I still get that feeling when I hear it today. After the song ended and we returned to reality we realized the shop owner was watching us and aw-ing and she gave us the CD she'd played it from lol.
Of course I have songs for my kids as well, a couple each in fact. C's main one is "God is Watching over you" by Phil Joel which I heard on the radio after being told she had a spot on her neck which might be an indicator of other issues (Thank God it wasn't). I remember I first heard it while laying in the bath tub talking to her in my belly and I found the trust in God and peace that everything would be okay and God was Watching over us. The other two songs that remind me of her birth and which I sang to her throughout the pregnancy and after her birth and since are "Baby Mine" and "I knew I loved you before I met you."
J's pregnancy and birth was very Beatles heavy. His was my relaxed birth and my surprise. Daddy listened to "I am the Walrus" a lot that pregnancy but I was more about "Hey Jude." During this c-section I was awake so I got to choose the music on the speakers in the operating room and J was born with the Beatles singing that actually. His other song which says more about us and our relationship and is more our song I think is "Your Song" by Elton John though I heard it first in Moulin Rouge. The main line that I sing to my little boy who surprised me arriving only 12 months after his big sis, is "I hope you don't mind that I put down in words, how wonderful life is now you're in the world."
E's main song is "You'll be in my heart" by Phil Collins from Tarzan. Another song that was often played and sang in her pregnancy is "The Voice of Truth" this is used in a lot of VBAC montages and is a wonderful song of strength and trusting in God that what you're choosing to do is possible and the best choice for your child. I played this song a lot during early labor especially. I also often sing to her "If I had Words" and "Beautiful Soul."
I know this has gotten a bit long and that I've listed a lot of songs but each one does mean a lot to me and brings back those memories. I know as time passes my family will have more songs for each of us and many wonderful memories. Just these past few weeks C and J have been singing "Stuck Like Glue" and I will never forget how cute that is and it's given that song a special place in my heart too with that memory. I love that my Mom has given me her habit and music is such a part of our lives and memories.
Edited to add 12/13/11
K's here and of course has songs of her own as well. The main one being "Sweet Child of Mine." Also during her pregnancy I loved and still love to sing to her: Make You Feel My Love -Adele and If you want to sing out, sing out, Cat Stevens. :)
Edited to add 1/19/14
L's songs are I will wait by Mumford and Sons and Baby Mine (shared with big sis)
My Mom has told me my song and my sister and brother's songs several times and even though I wasn't there or at least wasn't able to remember those births the songs say so much about where she was in life then and what she was feeling. For my sister the song is "For Once in my Life." The Lyrics start with "For once in my life I have someone who needs me. Someone I've needed so long. For once, unafraid, I can go where life leads me. And somehow I know I'll be strong." Now that I have my own kids I imagine the feelings of C's birth and the birth that first made me a Mommy and I can imagine my Mom looking at my sister in her arms and those same feelings. My brother's song is "You are my Sunshine." This is the perfect song for her happy blond baby boy who surprised her coming early and only 15 months after his big sis, for the son who she still sees as her baby boy though he towers above her now.
My mom was at a much different point in her life when she had me (16 years after her first, 15 years after her second) and our song reflects this too. Our song is "You and me against the world" by Helen Reddy. It begins "You and me against the world, Sometimes it seems like you and me against the world, When all the others turn their backs and walked away,You can count on me to stay." Again this is the perfect song to show how it felt growing up like Mom and I were a partnership, best friends as well as Mother and daughter. Facing whatever came along together. Another part of the lyrics that stands out as perfect for us again "And for all the times we've cried I always felt that God was on our side." My mother's faith astounds me and she has always been a great reminder to let go and let God, that He is always watching over us, and to trust in Him.
As I was growing up I found other songs along the way. I remember when my grandfather passed away my mom and I heard "God is Watching us, from a distance" on the radio and that still brings me comfort when missing him and other family members that have passed since.
I found my song for my father and I which we danced to at my wedding: "I loved her first" by Heartland. I also had other songs for both my parents. I still remember several "Honky tonk" and older country songs which bring me back to making breakfast in my Dad's kitchen and us dancing as I stood on his feet and he guided us in circles. I also still sing several of the lullabies my Mom used for me to my children now. "Sweetest Little Fella," "Hush Little Baby," and "Rise and Shine" still remind me of those moments when my Mom would help me out of the bath, wrap me up in a towel and rock me and sing to me before bedtime.
My mom shared more of her songs with me too. Her favorites are "Rhapsody in Blue" and "Chariots of Fire" both which don't have lyrics, but will always remind me of her and put me in the mood to sit and relax or set off running as they do for her.
My husband and I found our own songs early in dating. Our first one was Linkin Park's "My December" when we first met in December and when we were chatting online and my screen name included December as well, then almost a year later we found "When you say nothing at all" which is the song we can't hear without stopping to dance together. I still remember when we first heard it. We were in a store in the Asheville mall and it came over the loud speakers and we started dancing in the middle of the store. It was like everything around us disappeared and it was only us dancing in the clouds. I still get that feeling when I hear it today. After the song ended and we returned to reality we realized the shop owner was watching us and aw-ing and she gave us the CD she'd played it from lol.
Of course I have songs for my kids as well, a couple each in fact. C's main one is "God is Watching over you" by Phil Joel which I heard on the radio after being told she had a spot on her neck which might be an indicator of other issues (Thank God it wasn't). I remember I first heard it while laying in the bath tub talking to her in my belly and I found the trust in God and peace that everything would be okay and God was Watching over us. The other two songs that remind me of her birth and which I sang to her throughout the pregnancy and after her birth and since are "Baby Mine" and "I knew I loved you before I met you."
J's pregnancy and birth was very Beatles heavy. His was my relaxed birth and my surprise. Daddy listened to "I am the Walrus" a lot that pregnancy but I was more about "Hey Jude." During this c-section I was awake so I got to choose the music on the speakers in the operating room and J was born with the Beatles singing that actually. His other song which says more about us and our relationship and is more our song I think is "Your Song" by Elton John though I heard it first in Moulin Rouge. The main line that I sing to my little boy who surprised me arriving only 12 months after his big sis, is "I hope you don't mind that I put down in words, how wonderful life is now you're in the world."
E's main song is "You'll be in my heart" by Phil Collins from Tarzan. Another song that was often played and sang in her pregnancy is "The Voice of Truth" this is used in a lot of VBAC montages and is a wonderful song of strength and trusting in God that what you're choosing to do is possible and the best choice for your child. I played this song a lot during early labor especially. I also often sing to her "If I had Words" and "Beautiful Soul."
I know this has gotten a bit long and that I've listed a lot of songs but each one does mean a lot to me and brings back those memories. I know as time passes my family will have more songs for each of us and many wonderful memories. Just these past few weeks C and J have been singing "Stuck Like Glue" and I will never forget how cute that is and it's given that song a special place in my heart too with that memory. I love that my Mom has given me her habit and music is such a part of our lives and memories.
Edited to add 12/13/11
K's here and of course has songs of her own as well. The main one being "Sweet Child of Mine." Also during her pregnancy I loved and still love to sing to her: Make You Feel My Love -Adele and If you want to sing out, sing out, Cat Stevens. :)
Edited to add 1/19/14
L's songs are I will wait by Mumford and Sons and Baby Mine (shared with big sis)
Monday, November 29, 2010
3 days till Bday/Before 25
My birthday is this Thursday! 25 seems so big and like it got here so fast and yet when I think about how much has happened in the last 25 years I think it seems like much more time has passed.
I know it's not the big 3-0 but it seems so close to it that I'll admit it makes me a little nervous. It's also a quarter of a century, crazy to think about. As I mentioned before it also means I move from the 18-24 to 25-30 check box on forms so that must mean it's a big deal right?
Anyway tomorrow should be pretty busy schedule wise and Wednesday I have the Midtown ICAN meeting, so I'm writing this now while I have extra time. I wanted to look back at some of the key things I've gotten done in my life before 25. Definitely not writing everything by any means but some key things that come to mind. And I'll probably add more to this later.
I was inspired to write these down after coming across several lists of "things people wished they had done before 30." Also since 30 is (eeeek) 5 years away I plan to make another list later of all the things I want to get done before 30 too.
Before 25 I :
-Got a High School Diploma
-Got a Bachelor's Degree in Graphic Design in 3 years (yay APs)
-Attended the Olympics
-Went to Washington DC
-Traveled to Indonesia and Australia (and Singapore but just the airport lol)
-Worked at a Candy Store, Television Station (editing, designing, and reporting), and on a Gubernatorial Campaign (There's some variety for ya lol)
-Met the Love of my life
-Married the Love of my life
-Became a Mommy
-Gave birth to 3 amazing children
-Had 2 c-sections, and then a natural VBA2C, yes I'm proud of that
-Was Saved (aka found my religion) at 19
-Learned another language (though I don't trust myself to speak it since I haven't in awhile I can understand most Spanish, and also know a little Indonesian)
-Did Volunteer Work with Habitat for Humanity (need to do more)
-Gave Blood
-Lived in 3 homes other than my parents' (2 apartments and our current house)
-Hosted my own Thanksgiving (:-P)
I know it's not the big 3-0 but it seems so close to it that I'll admit it makes me a little nervous. It's also a quarter of a century, crazy to think about. As I mentioned before it also means I move from the 18-24 to 25-30 check box on forms so that must mean it's a big deal right?
Anyway tomorrow should be pretty busy schedule wise and Wednesday I have the Midtown ICAN meeting, so I'm writing this now while I have extra time. I wanted to look back at some of the key things I've gotten done in my life before 25. Definitely not writing everything by any means but some key things that come to mind. And I'll probably add more to this later.
I was inspired to write these down after coming across several lists of "things people wished they had done before 30." Also since 30 is (eeeek) 5 years away I plan to make another list later of all the things I want to get done before 30 too.
Before 25 I :
-Got a High School Diploma
-Got a Bachelor's Degree in Graphic Design in 3 years (yay APs)
-Attended the Olympics
-Went to Washington DC
-Traveled to Indonesia and Australia (and Singapore but just the airport lol)
-Worked at a Candy Store, Television Station (editing, designing, and reporting), and on a Gubernatorial Campaign (There's some variety for ya lol)
-Met the Love of my life
-Married the Love of my life
-Became a Mommy
-Gave birth to 3 amazing children
-Had 2 c-sections, and then a natural VBA2C, yes I'm proud of that
-Was Saved (aka found my religion) at 19
-Learned another language (though I don't trust myself to speak it since I haven't in awhile I can understand most Spanish, and also know a little Indonesian)
-Did Volunteer Work with Habitat for Humanity (need to do more)
-Gave Blood
-Lived in 3 homes other than my parents' (2 apartments and our current house)
-Hosted my own Thanksgiving (:-P)
Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Christmas Sales......and Style
Okay I may just be late to the party but I do not remember "Cyber Monday" before this year. Advertised as the online equivalent to Black Friday and an opportunity to get great deals it seems it's actually more of a reminder that those deals you may have thought were so good on Friday were actually not as good as the ones they released 3 days later....hmmmmm. I luckily did not really participate in the black Friday shopping but today Cyber Monday had me feeling more nervous then anything.
Wait I thought last Friday was the best deal? It wasn't, okay but today is right? How can I trust that? I'm sure within a couple days we'll have another round of Last Chance Christmas Sales popping up with even better deals. I think I need to plan what I want to get the kids for Christmas 2011 now and buy it on the 26th this year for the actual best deal. Then again all those items will most likely be retired for newer models by next year and then it won't be worth it again. Argh at the vicious cycle.
ETA Not a hour after writing this I got a couple emails from some stores now extending their "Cyber Monday" Deals to tomorrow. I was right. I shall dub this new sale day "Technicality Tuesday."
Anyway I didn't fall prey to the "Best sales" today...too much anyway. Santa did get some things from Toys R Us and Mommy got some hats and bows from Etsy that actually were an awesome deal (though necessity of that purchase is debatable). Note: Having daughters is dangerous for your wallet, though now that I think about it having kids in general is though definitely worth it of course lol.
Though this wasn't a purchase today we got the kids Christmas outfits this weekend. I'm not going for the handmade items like I did last year (though C and J's outfits actually still fit if I have a more formal event to get them out again) but the kids will be matching of course (the girls have almost identical sets and J has coordinating wear). Since the girls are getting more bows with their outfits recently I've been balancing J's wardrobe with hats. Last night my mom brought him a train hat which may be his favorite yet.
It's funny to me how C and J's styles have changed and their clothing preferences have evolved so much already. C is all about red (favorite color), pink, purple, and her skirts and dresses which make her into a princess in her mind, But despite this trend towards the girly, the outfit has to be as comfortable as possible because it has to allow her to run, flip, jump, climb, and everything else she could imagine. J is all about things with pockets and characters. He loves jeans which he has a huge collection of thanks to his cousins hand me downs with all variety of pockets, zippers, and buttons. He knows his colors but doesn't have a color preference in what he wears....unless it matches Daddy anyway. If he has his choice though he wants to be able to tell you something is on his shirt. It may be a dog, dump truck, train, Elmo, Scooby Doo, etc. whichever he will be excited to tell you what it is and more about it's color and various features than the color of the actual shirt.
I wonder if E will have a similar view to either of her big siblings as she gets older. It's so nice I can just dress her as I please for now, and I am thankful C and J, despite their preferences still humor me and let me help choose their outfits (often to match little sis). I know before I know it all my little ones will have their own distinct style and I will have to deal with it whether I love or hate the results.
Anyway back on topic I still need to get the kids some nice new Winter coats and some educational and craft gear from the School box store. I also need to buy some family members gifts, including hubby. Wish me luck on choosing (and not going overboard on hubby, since the things he likes, computer gear and anything woodworking related are very easy for me to get carried away on)! Hope yall are doing well with your Christmas shopping too!
Wait I thought last Friday was the best deal? It wasn't, okay but today is right? How can I trust that? I'm sure within a couple days we'll have another round of Last Chance Christmas Sales popping up with even better deals. I think I need to plan what I want to get the kids for Christmas 2011 now and buy it on the 26th this year for the actual best deal. Then again all those items will most likely be retired for newer models by next year and then it won't be worth it again. Argh at the vicious cycle.
ETA Not a hour after writing this I got a couple emails from some stores now extending their "Cyber Monday" Deals to tomorrow. I was right. I shall dub this new sale day "Technicality Tuesday."
Anyway I didn't fall prey to the "Best sales" today...too much anyway. Santa did get some things from Toys R Us and Mommy got some hats and bows from Etsy that actually were an awesome deal (though necessity of that purchase is debatable). Note: Having daughters is dangerous for your wallet, though now that I think about it having kids in general is though definitely worth it of course lol.
Though this wasn't a purchase today we got the kids Christmas outfits this weekend. I'm not going for the handmade items like I did last year (though C and J's outfits actually still fit if I have a more formal event to get them out again) but the kids will be matching of course (the girls have almost identical sets and J has coordinating wear). Since the girls are getting more bows with their outfits recently I've been balancing J's wardrobe with hats. Last night my mom brought him a train hat which may be his favorite yet.
It's funny to me how C and J's styles have changed and their clothing preferences have evolved so much already. C is all about red (favorite color), pink, purple, and her skirts and dresses which make her into a princess in her mind, But despite this trend towards the girly, the outfit has to be as comfortable as possible because it has to allow her to run, flip, jump, climb, and everything else she could imagine. J is all about things with pockets and characters. He loves jeans which he has a huge collection of thanks to his cousins hand me downs with all variety of pockets, zippers, and buttons. He knows his colors but doesn't have a color preference in what he wears....unless it matches Daddy anyway. If he has his choice though he wants to be able to tell you something is on his shirt. It may be a dog, dump truck, train, Elmo, Scooby Doo, etc. whichever he will be excited to tell you what it is and more about it's color and various features than the color of the actual shirt.
I wonder if E will have a similar view to either of her big siblings as she gets older. It's so nice I can just dress her as I please for now, and I am thankful C and J, despite their preferences still humor me and let me help choose their outfits (often to match little sis). I know before I know it all my little ones will have their own distinct style and I will have to deal with it whether I love or hate the results.
Anyway back on topic I still need to get the kids some nice new Winter coats and some educational and craft gear from the School box store. I also need to buy some family members gifts, including hubby. Wish me luck on choosing (and not going overboard on hubby, since the things he likes, computer gear and anything woodworking related are very easy for me to get carried away on)! Hope yall are doing well with your Christmas shopping too!
Sunday, November 28, 2010
A GT Family
So as a Georgia Tech Family today was of course about The Game. If you somehow missed it there's a wee bit of a rivalry down here with GT and UGA. It's fondly referred to as "Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate." I grew up in a family that was split in their alliances but when I married a soon to be GT grad. I signed up to support GT forever and I definitely am a true fan now. I'm not that much of a football fan in general but when it's GT we're always interested and if it's GT versus UGA we're required to watch.
Anyway unfortunately tonight's game didn't go as planned (!@#$% missed free kick) but anyway looking onward to next year. In the meantime in honor of GT I'm adding our amazing fight song which only a UGA fan could not get a kick out of, and a picture of my mini-GT fans who were cheering along with us today.
Ramblin' Wreck from Georgia Tech
(Copied from Wikipedia thus the links)
I'm a Ramblin' Wreck from Georgia Tech, and a hell of an engineer--
A helluva, helluva, helluva, helluva, hell of an engineer.
Like all the jolly good fellows, I drink my whiskey clear.
I'm a Ramblin' Wreck from Georgia Tech and a hell of an engineer.
Oh! If I had a daughter, sir, I'd dress her in White and Gold,
And put her on the campus to cheer the brave and bold.
But if I had a son, sir, I'll tell you what he'd do--
He would yell, 'To hell with Georgia!' like his daddy used to do.
Oh, I wish I had a barrel of rum and sugar three thousand pounds,
A college bell to put it in and a clapper to stir it round.
I'd drink to all the good fellows who come from far and near.
I'm a ramblin', gamblin', hell of an engineer!
A video with lyrics sung
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mKSWzS-easI&feature=related
Marching Band Playing
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7h51M3CfIQ&feature=related
Anyway unfortunately tonight's game didn't go as planned (!@#$% missed free kick) but anyway looking onward to next year. In the meantime in honor of GT I'm adding our amazing fight song which only a UGA fan could not get a kick out of, and a picture of my mini-GT fans who were cheering along with us today.
Ramblin' Wreck from Georgia Tech
(Copied from Wikipedia thus the links)
I'm a Ramblin' Wreck from Georgia Tech, and a hell of an engineer--
A helluva, helluva, helluva, helluva, hell of an engineer.
Like all the jolly good fellows, I drink my whiskey clear.
I'm a Ramblin' Wreck from Georgia Tech and a hell of an engineer.
Oh! If I had a daughter, sir, I'd dress her in White and Gold,
And put her on the campus to cheer the brave and bold.
But if I had a son, sir, I'll tell you what he'd do--
He would yell, 'To hell with Georgia!' like his daddy used to do.
Oh, I wish I had a barrel of rum and sugar three thousand pounds,
A college bell to put it in and a clapper to stir it round.
I'd drink to all the good fellows who come from far and near.
I'm a ramblin', gamblin', hell of an engineer!
A video with lyrics sung
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mKSWzS-easI&feature=related
Marching Band Playing
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7h51M3CfIQ&feature=related
Saturday, November 27, 2010
The Turkey- Grilled
During commercials for the GT game I'm adding one of the recipes from Thanksgiving, perhaps the most important recipe in fact....the turkey.
I am just adding the grilled turkey, though we had roasted as well, because this was amazing and we will definitely be grilling the turkey every year from now on.
Hubby made this, starting with this brine recipe.
I have the edited version we did as follows which was simple but perfect!
Rinse turkey with cold water; pat dry. Trim excess fat. Place a turkey-sized oven bag inside a second bag to form a double thickness. Place bags in a large stockpot. Place turkey inside inner bag. Add cider mixture and ice. Secure bags with several twist ties or use extra large Ziploc Bags. Refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours, turning occasionally.
Remove turkey from bags, and discard brine and bags. Rinse turkey with cold water; pat dry. Lift wing tips up and over back; tuck under turkey. Tie legs together with kitchen string. Then cook as you want. Our choice was grilling with apple wood chips which gave a great mild smoky taste to the turkey.
And here's the result. It was the prettiest turkey I've ever seen and yummiest too :)
I am just adding the grilled turkey, though we had roasted as well, because this was amazing and we will definitely be grilling the turkey every year from now on.
Hubby made this, starting with this brine recipe.
I have the edited version we did as follows which was simple but perfect!
Apple Cider-Brined Turkey
Ingredients:
- 8 cups apple cider
- 2/3 cup kosher salt
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns, coarsely crushed
- 1 tablespoon whole allspice, coarsely crushed
- 8 (1/8-inch-thick) slices peeled fresh ginger
- 6 whole cloves
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 (12-pound) fresh or frozen turkey, thawed
- 6 cups Ice
Rinse turkey with cold water; pat dry. Trim excess fat. Place a turkey-sized oven bag inside a second bag to form a double thickness. Place bags in a large stockpot. Place turkey inside inner bag. Add cider mixture and ice. Secure bags with several twist ties or use extra large Ziploc Bags. Refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours, turning occasionally.
Remove turkey from bags, and discard brine and bags. Rinse turkey with cold water; pat dry. Lift wing tips up and over back; tuck under turkey. Tie legs together with kitchen string. Then cook as you want. Our choice was grilling with apple wood chips which gave a great mild smoky taste to the turkey.
And here's the result. It was the prettiest turkey I've ever seen and yummiest too :)
Friday, November 26, 2010
A Lazy Day, Christmas Plans, and Almost "Mama"
Thanksgiving was fairly calm this year but today took that calm to a whole new level. Blame the rain or the turkey coma but today was a perfect lazy day. We chilled around the house with my mom and the kids. I did get several things done (the one I'm most proud of being the kids clothes all sorted and Summer and too small stuff all put away so only the Fall and Winter gear remain) but for the most part we just played with the kids, ate Thanksgiving left overs, and relaxed.
I skipped out on the Black Friday shopping since nothing on our Christmas lists has been on sale this year and I don't feel like I missed out at all. I already have several of the kids Christmas gifts purchased and the rest I will probably order offline since they're not in most local stores I've checked.
Hopefully we can start our Christmas decorating tomorrow or Sunday. In years past we had small artificial trees since we were in a small apartment and it was safer out of the kids reach but this year since we have the space in our rental house we are planning on having a real tree. This means we need ornaments. I am not a fan of the fragile glass ornaments around the kids and have horrible memories of them shattering and being ground into carpet so I'm trying to avoid those this year. I also want C and J involved as much as possible in decorating the tree so the plan is that we will be making most of the ornaments and the purchased ones will be kid safe (plastic, paper mache, and plush). I'm looking at various options to make our own ornaments and I am hoping to make some special ornaments for the year for each child. I'm hoping to make this a tradition so when my children eventually have their own trees they will have their own personalized ornaments made by Mom especially for them. I will take pics when I get these done (hopefully in the next couple days as well). I will also be hanging cranberries on the tree I think, as long as I can get the point across to the kids that those aren't for eating off the tree.
Other than the lazy day and planning for Christmas I have started hearing things. E has been baby talking like crazy and I keep hearing "Mama". Now I know a 2 month old speaking with actual words is most likely impossible. And I'm sure she probably is just happening upon this sound combo since I repeat to her so often and doesn't quite know the meaning, but still I hear it and it catches me off guard and I can't help but get a little excited though I'm not counting this as first word yet.
C and J both said their first actual words at 4 months. C began by saying "Hi" when people entered rooms and then a day or two after getting that had "Dada" down, yep she was a Daddy's girl from the start. J said "Mama" first and wrapped me even more around his little finger. A few weeks later he learned "Dada" and then his mischievous streak really emerged. Every time I would say "Say Mama" he'd say "Dada" then burst into laughter, he thought it was the funniest thing in the world. He still would call for me when he was upset or sleepy but he would never say it when I asked. He kept doing that for several months. It's crazy to think back to when they were both just learning to talk when now there's nothing they can't say.
Anyway back to E and the present. I know I will have to wait a bit longer to be sure when the first words she understands really emerge but I still think she's getting closer with imitating me. I may be crazy (what mom isn't a little though) but I'm going to continue going with that one particular babble of hers that she often says is her "almost 'Mama'" since every time I hear it I my heart warms up, and hearing my babies say "Mama" at any age is definitely one of the sweetest sounds in the world.
I did get some of E's babbling on video tonight. She was a little upset so this wasn't as clear as usual but I figured I'd share anyway so yall can here her "almost Mama" too :) It's cute whether you count it as first word or not after all right lol. Check the following post for the video.
I skipped out on the Black Friday shopping since nothing on our Christmas lists has been on sale this year and I don't feel like I missed out at all. I already have several of the kids Christmas gifts purchased and the rest I will probably order offline since they're not in most local stores I've checked.
Hopefully we can start our Christmas decorating tomorrow or Sunday. In years past we had small artificial trees since we were in a small apartment and it was safer out of the kids reach but this year since we have the space in our rental house we are planning on having a real tree. This means we need ornaments. I am not a fan of the fragile glass ornaments around the kids and have horrible memories of them shattering and being ground into carpet so I'm trying to avoid those this year. I also want C and J involved as much as possible in decorating the tree so the plan is that we will be making most of the ornaments and the purchased ones will be kid safe (plastic, paper mache, and plush). I'm looking at various options to make our own ornaments and I am hoping to make some special ornaments for the year for each child. I'm hoping to make this a tradition so when my children eventually have their own trees they will have their own personalized ornaments made by Mom especially for them. I will take pics when I get these done (hopefully in the next couple days as well). I will also be hanging cranberries on the tree I think, as long as I can get the point across to the kids that those aren't for eating off the tree.
Other than the lazy day and planning for Christmas I have started hearing things. E has been baby talking like crazy and I keep hearing "Mama". Now I know a 2 month old speaking with actual words is most likely impossible. And I'm sure she probably is just happening upon this sound combo since I repeat to her so often and doesn't quite know the meaning, but still I hear it and it catches me off guard and I can't help but get a little excited though I'm not counting this as first word yet.
C and J both said their first actual words at 4 months. C began by saying "Hi" when people entered rooms and then a day or two after getting that had "Dada" down, yep she was a Daddy's girl from the start. J said "Mama" first and wrapped me even more around his little finger. A few weeks later he learned "Dada" and then his mischievous streak really emerged. Every time I would say "Say Mama" he'd say "Dada" then burst into laughter, he thought it was the funniest thing in the world. He still would call for me when he was upset or sleepy but he would never say it when I asked. He kept doing that for several months. It's crazy to think back to when they were both just learning to talk when now there's nothing they can't say.
Anyway back to E and the present. I know I will have to wait a bit longer to be sure when the first words she understands really emerge but I still think she's getting closer with imitating me. I may be crazy (what mom isn't a little though) but I'm going to continue going with that one particular babble of hers that she often says is her "almost 'Mama'" since every time I hear it I my heart warms up, and hearing my babies say "Mama" at any age is definitely one of the sweetest sounds in the world.
I did get some of E's babbling on video tonight. She was a little upset so this wasn't as clear as usual but I figured I'd share anyway so yall can here her "almost Mama" too :) It's cute whether you count it as first word or not after all right lol. Check the following post for the video.
Almost "Mama"
Read the first post for the story on this :)
I did get some of E's babbling on video tonight. She was a little upset so this wasn't as clear as usual but I figured I'd share anyway so yall can here her "almost Mama" too. It's cute whether you count it as first word or not after all right lol.
I did get some of E's babbling on video tonight. She was a little upset so this wasn't as clear as usual but I figured I'd share anyway so yall can here her "almost Mama" too. It's cute whether you count it as first word or not after all right lol.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Thanks
I'll update more and add recipes from today later but I wanted to write a little tonight.
Thanksgiving went wonderfully today. The weather was gorgeous outside. The food all turned out great. The company was good. And it was one of the most relaxed Thanksgivings I remember.
We woke up at a late 9:30am, my mom arrived shortly after, I had pumpkin pies in the oven in no time and hubby had turkey on the grill. MIL came over to cook the other turkey in the oven and my SILs came over a bit later. Since all the other food was made the night before for the most part the day was very relaxing just mainly waiting on the turkeys while enjoying the company. Everything was perfectly seasoned, hot and ready when we were and it didn't feel like we were rushed or on any sort of deadline to get through the day. This is the type of Thanksgiving perfect for parents IMO since you actually have time to play with your kids and talk with your family without being stuck in a crowded kitchen.
I consider our first Thanksgiving hosted by Hubby and I, and E's first Thanksgiving, to be a success for sure (though she mainly sat in the swing and various arms throughout the day she was happy with that too).
My absolutely favorite part of the day was when we gave thanks during dinner, mainly because this year C and J both participated and were comfortable sharing their thanks out loud this year. J was thankful for "trains to ride on", "nummies,"and "Ami and Ibu" (his Grandmas). C was thankful for Thanksgiving, Turkey, Watching Movies, and "Water to drink when we're thirsty" and "Food to eat when we're hungry." I was amazed at that last one and still am especially touched by it. Such a simple thought from my 3 year old but one that carries so much weight with it in the world. She doesn't know yet there are people out there who don't have these things yet she knows to be thankful for them. I am once again amazed by my children and so thankful my family never has to go hungry or thirsty, has a roof over our head, and have all our needs fulfilled. We are so blessed and have so much to be thankful for even the most simple of things like "water to drink when we're thirsty." Thank you God for blessing me and my family again and again!
Thanksgiving went wonderfully today. The weather was gorgeous outside. The food all turned out great. The company was good. And it was one of the most relaxed Thanksgivings I remember.
We woke up at a late 9:30am, my mom arrived shortly after, I had pumpkin pies in the oven in no time and hubby had turkey on the grill. MIL came over to cook the other turkey in the oven and my SILs came over a bit later. Since all the other food was made the night before for the most part the day was very relaxing just mainly waiting on the turkeys while enjoying the company. Everything was perfectly seasoned, hot and ready when we were and it didn't feel like we were rushed or on any sort of deadline to get through the day. This is the type of Thanksgiving perfect for parents IMO since you actually have time to play with your kids and talk with your family without being stuck in a crowded kitchen.
I consider our first Thanksgiving hosted by Hubby and I, and E's first Thanksgiving, to be a success for sure (though she mainly sat in the swing and various arms throughout the day she was happy with that too).
My absolutely favorite part of the day was when we gave thanks during dinner, mainly because this year C and J both participated and were comfortable sharing their thanks out loud this year. J was thankful for "trains to ride on", "nummies,"and "Ami and Ibu" (his Grandmas). C was thankful for Thanksgiving, Turkey, Watching Movies, and "Water to drink when we're thirsty" and "Food to eat when we're hungry." I was amazed at that last one and still am especially touched by it. Such a simple thought from my 3 year old but one that carries so much weight with it in the world. She doesn't know yet there are people out there who don't have these things yet she knows to be thankful for them. I am once again amazed by my children and so thankful my family never has to go hungry or thirsty, has a roof over our head, and have all our needs fulfilled. We are so blessed and have so much to be thankful for even the most simple of things like "water to drink when we're thirsty." Thank you God for blessing me and my family again and again!
Happy Thanksgiving!
What I am most thankful for (if I were to count all my blessings the post would never end so here's my top ones):
I am thankful for God who guides me, my husband who stands beside me, my mother who has taught me so much, and my children who are still teaching me each day.
I am thankful for my friends, old and new, down the road and across the country.
I am thankful for my family here and all over the world.
I am thankful for my family here and all over the world.
I am thankful for my many blessings, along with the challenges I face and overcome with the help of God, my family, and friends.
And I am thankful for the love that surrounds me in my life, growing more each day with every smile, laugh, and even with every tear, that fills my home.
And I am thankful for the love that surrounds me in my life, growing more each day with every smile, laugh, and even with every tear, that fills my home.
I hope you and yours are blessed to have as much to be thankful for this year and every year.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Be Thankful- A Poem (found on site linked and a good reminder especially for parents )
Be thankful that you don't already have everything you desire.
If you did, what would there be to look forward to?
Be thankful when you don't know something,
for it gives you the opportunity to learn.
Be thankful for the difficult times.
During those times you grow.
Be thankful for your limitations,
because they give you opportunities for improvement.
Be thankful for each new challenge,
because it will build your strength and character.
Be thankful for your mistakes.
They will teach you valuable lessons.
Be thankful when you're tired and weary,
because it means you've made a difference.
It's easy to be thankful for the good things.
A life of rich fulfilment comes to those who
are also thankful for the setbacks.
Gratitude can turn a negative into a positive.
Find a way to be thankful for your troubles,
and they can become your blessings.
~~~~~~
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Our Thanksgiving Menu
Not much time to write as we prepare for the feast at our house tomorrow so I just wanted to share our menu for now. I'll add our recipes later and link the allrecipe ones:
- Turkey-We will be having two this year, one in brine and grilled by hubby and one roasted in the oven with stuffing inside.
- Stuffing-MIL's recipe I'll get after tomorrow
- Gravy-Made from scratch with Turkey Drippings
- Hawaiian Rolls-Packaged but hubby's favorite so a must have in this house
- Frozen Fruit Medley-This is a tradition of hubby's side, it's super yummy, refreshing as an appetizer, and the kids love it of course.
- Pineapple Casserole-Another dish from hubby's side, super simple and a kid favorite again. Will add recipe later too
- Green Bean Casserole-Easy, classic again
- Mashed Potatoes-From scratch, potatoes, cream, butter, salt, chicken broth is optional
- Deviled Eggs-My mom is bringing these. Ingredients: Eggs, Mayo, mustard, dill relish or salad cubes, paprika on top optional. If you're from the South this doesn't require a recipe it's just a combination of the above to taste
- Sweet Potato Casserole-My mom is bringing this too and makes a really good one. I will upload her recipe after tomorrow.
- Cornbread Dressing-Another one of my mom's recipes I'll add later. This can be made vegetarian as well if needed.
- Pecan Pie-Pretty straight forward again we use a recipe similar to this one though usually with more pecans added.
- Hot Apple Cider-Mom's combo again
- Pumpkin Pie-From Scratch using the recipe I mentioned earlier this week and fresh pumpkin puree
- Cranberry Sauce-Fresh made not canned (super easy to make again)
Santa's using Shutterfly
As a mom I love pictures of my children, taking them, sharing them, and putting them on gifts for family and friends. I do this with the help of the photo site Shutterfly. I love Shutterfly for prints, cards, and gifts throughout the year. I've used them for birth announcements, prints, photo mugs, and even mouse pads. They can put your pics on almost anything it feels like.
One of my favorite products they offer is cards. They provide you with several card design options which you then can insert your own family photos into, and personalize the text with their easy editing program (all while on the web, no downloading required). They'll address and send your cards out for you or send them all to you so you can do it yourself. They are great high quality card stock with vibrant colors which look great. Perfect for Christmas Cards (and they have tons of choices). They also offer a large variety of Holiday Cards which would be beautiful personalized with your pics.
Now you may be wondering why I'm so excited about their cards to blog on them now well besides that last week my birth announcements for E arrived (be checking mail boxes soon), right now Shutterfly is offering 50 free holiday cards for bloggers who write about their products. If you're interested in participating check it out here: Shutterfly Free Holiday Cards.
If you don't need cards this year Shutterfly also has great options for Christmas gifts that I'm sure your family members would love (I know I would). You can make photo books quickly with a beautiful final project (easier to make and keep track of then albums in my opinion too). And for the kids you can get their photos made into books and puzzles featuring their favorite television characters. C and J love Dora and Diego so these are perfect for us. Santa will definitely be using Shutterfly this year.
ETA: Here is the card we chose to send for 2010
One of my favorite products they offer is cards. They provide you with several card design options which you then can insert your own family photos into, and personalize the text with their easy editing program (all while on the web, no downloading required). They'll address and send your cards out for you or send them all to you so you can do it yourself. They are great high quality card stock with vibrant colors which look great. Perfect for Christmas Cards (and they have tons of choices). They also offer a large variety of Holiday Cards which would be beautiful personalized with your pics.
Now you may be wondering why I'm so excited about their cards to blog on them now well besides that last week my birth announcements for E arrived (be checking mail boxes soon), right now Shutterfly is offering 50 free holiday cards for bloggers who write about their products. If you're interested in participating check it out here: Shutterfly Free Holiday Cards.
If you don't need cards this year Shutterfly also has great options for Christmas gifts that I'm sure your family members would love (I know I would). You can make photo books quickly with a beautiful final project (easier to make and keep track of then albums in my opinion too). And for the kids you can get their photos made into books and puzzles featuring their favorite television characters. C and J love Dora and Diego so these are perfect for us. Santa will definitely be using Shutterfly this year.
ETA: Here is the card we chose to send for 2010
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Chili Day and Sweet Night
Horrible pun I know but when a friend mentioned having chili today and then the gloomy rain came in with a chill in tow it just seemed to be meant to be. So I made homemade chili for dinner and it turned out perfectly.
I used this recipe for "Flatlander Chili" and the only change I made was a little less Cayenne since I didn't want it to be too spicy for the kids.
The kids ate all their's and hubby ate till he was too stuffed for dessert so it definitely went over well and I will be making it again. And I remembered to take some food pics since I was proud of it lol. Second one is with sour cream and cheese.
And as mentioned earlier I made the Pumpkin Muffins too. The recipe is only supposed to make one dozen but it made 1.5 for me as you can see. We had to wait a bit after dinner to have room but these were amazing too and we have tons left over. It's a little bit heavier muffin so could easily be a breakfast option on the run (most likely will be hubby's breakfast tomorrow).
I used this recipe for "Flatlander Chili" and the only change I made was a little less Cayenne since I didn't want it to be too spicy for the kids.
The kids ate all their's and hubby ate till he was too stuffed for dessert so it definitely went over well and I will be making it again. And I remembered to take some food pics since I was proud of it lol. Second one is with sour cream and cheese.
Pumpkin Pumpkin Pumpkin
The kids are having afternoon snacks so I wanted to take a sec to share some of my cooking endeavors thus far this week. The theme is pumpkin!
Nothing too exciting but I finally made my own fresh pumpkin puree so this house will be canned pumpkin free this year. I can tell you from tasting it definitely makes a difference and it's so simple to do.
All you have to do to get your own fresh pumpkin puree
-Cut a sugar pumpkin (aka pie pumpkin) in half
-Scrape out the seeds and most of the pulp with a spoon
-Place them open side down in 1/4 water in a glass baking dish or roasting pan (I did both since I had 3 pumpkins)
-Bake at 350 for 45-60minutes (check with fork to see when you can easily pierce)
-Then Scoop out the Meat (pretty much everything but the peel) and blend or use a food processor to puree
And you can use this in place of canned pumpkin in all your recipes (Also can be frozen or will keep in the fridge 5 days).
If you want a more detailed explanation check out this site. It also has pictures and if you don't want to use the oven you can microwave or cook the pumpkin on the stove top
So I now have an abundance of fresh pumpkin puree in my fridge and freezer and plan to get more before the holidays are past so I can save it for other times of year. I also think in several months it might be good for a baby food option for E. You can also do the above instructions to any squash type vegetable which adds even more food options.
Anyway so I cooked the pumpkins Saturday night and Sunday made Pumpkin Pies with this recipe:
Reading the comments you'll see this yields closer to 1.5 pies so I added 1 egg, used 2 cups of pumpkin, and 2 crusts and ended up with the perfect amount for 2 pies
Also I added a full tsp of cinnamon and only a pinch of cloves and it turned out perfectly taste wise too, it also tasted fresher from the fresh pumpkin. The only difference I noticed was they seemed lighter color than pies using canned pumpkin but it was still nicely orange and looked like pumpkin pie so it's not really an issue.
Monday I made Pumpkin French Toast for Breakfast. This is super easy and a very yummy treat for the holidays when you're not doing a huge meal. I found the initial recipe here
However that recipe seems to be a more subtle version and the pumpkin taste is almost lost (though that could be a good thing if you want to make your kids' breakfast a bit healthier and don't want the pumpkin taste). We did want the pumpkin taste though so I used 3/4 cups of pumpkin puree instead, and added Pumpkin Pie Spices (Ginger, Nutmeg, Allspice) instead of the nutmeg alone, along with the recommend cinnamon. I also added a tsp of Vanilla and a dash of clove and it was amazing! Especially with Whipped cream with a cinnamon sprinkled on it.
Pumpkin French toast mixture as I adjusted it: Beat together the following then dip 8 slices of whole wheat bread in it and cook on Medium heat in a frying pan with butter, Serve with Syrup, Whipped Cream, or Powdered Sugar, or eat them on their own. You can also add white sugar to the mix if you want a sweeter toast without topping.
Anyway continuing on the Pumpkin path I will be making Pumpkin Muffins tonight (would be today but I'm out of baking powder). Here's the recipe. I'll let yall know how it goes.
BTW All the above will make your house smell amazing and definitely put you in the holiday mood :)
Nothing too exciting but I finally made my own fresh pumpkin puree so this house will be canned pumpkin free this year. I can tell you from tasting it definitely makes a difference and it's so simple to do.
All you have to do to get your own fresh pumpkin puree
-Cut a sugar pumpkin (aka pie pumpkin) in half
-Scrape out the seeds and most of the pulp with a spoon
-Place them open side down in 1/4 water in a glass baking dish or roasting pan (I did both since I had 3 pumpkins)
-Bake at 350 for 45-60minutes (check with fork to see when you can easily pierce)
-Then Scoop out the Meat (pretty much everything but the peel) and blend or use a food processor to puree
And you can use this in place of canned pumpkin in all your recipes (Also can be frozen or will keep in the fridge 5 days).
If you want a more detailed explanation check out this site. It also has pictures and if you don't want to use the oven you can microwave or cook the pumpkin on the stove top
So I now have an abundance of fresh pumpkin puree in my fridge and freezer and plan to get more before the holidays are past so I can save it for other times of year. I also think in several months it might be good for a baby food option for E. You can also do the above instructions to any squash type vegetable which adds even more food options.
Anyway so I cooked the pumpkins Saturday night and Sunday made Pumpkin Pies with this recipe:
Reading the comments you'll see this yields closer to 1.5 pies so I added 1 egg, used 2 cups of pumpkin, and 2 crusts and ended up with the perfect amount for 2 pies
Also I added a full tsp of cinnamon and only a pinch of cloves and it turned out perfectly taste wise too, it also tasted fresher from the fresh pumpkin. The only difference I noticed was they seemed lighter color than pies using canned pumpkin but it was still nicely orange and looked like pumpkin pie so it's not really an issue.
Monday I made Pumpkin French Toast for Breakfast. This is super easy and a very yummy treat for the holidays when you're not doing a huge meal. I found the initial recipe here
However that recipe seems to be a more subtle version and the pumpkin taste is almost lost (though that could be a good thing if you want to make your kids' breakfast a bit healthier and don't want the pumpkin taste). We did want the pumpkin taste though so I used 3/4 cups of pumpkin puree instead, and added Pumpkin Pie Spices (Ginger, Nutmeg, Allspice) instead of the nutmeg alone, along with the recommend cinnamon. I also added a tsp of Vanilla and a dash of clove and it was amazing! Especially with Whipped cream with a cinnamon sprinkled on it.
Pumpkin French toast mixture as I adjusted it: Beat together the following then dip 8 slices of whole wheat bread in it and cook on Medium heat in a frying pan with butter, Serve with Syrup, Whipped Cream, or Powdered Sugar, or eat them on their own. You can also add white sugar to the mix if you want a sweeter toast without topping.
- 4 eggs
- 3/4 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice or (Ginger, Nutmeg, Allspice)
- A dash of ground Clove
Anyway continuing on the Pumpkin path I will be making Pumpkin Muffins tonight (would be today but I'm out of baking powder). Here's the recipe. I'll let yall know how it goes.
BTW All the above will make your house smell amazing and definitely put you in the holiday mood :)
The Music of Motherhood
I hope I'll be able to keep up with the blog through the holiday but I figured just in case I'm too busy for that I'll take any moment I have in the meantime to write down some thoughts.
My current moment's peace is brought to you by the nursing baby on my chest and my two toddlers "reading" to each other on the living room floor. Someone witnessing the current scene might claim this is quiet, and compared to the more exciting moments of the day they may be technically right. But though my house is calm right now and my kids' variety of noises are all within normal volume levels my life is never quiet and the noises are constantly changing.
Right now I hear the lull of my washer going, it will soon finish it's cycle and I'll need to go put the load in the dryer. I hear the ice maker working, and E has now finished her meal and is working on a gift for me so I hear small baby grunts. C and J are now singing to each other. And in between these I hear my mind busily working, worrying, planning, for the next meal, moment, and necessity. Even while writing this I have a Thanksgiving grocery list forming in my mind, along with the menu for tonight's dinner, and plans to do some cleaning and decor before my Sister in laws arrive tonight.
This is the music of my life, the hymn of motherhood in an sense. No it is never quiet and the thought of true silence with children makes me very nervous honestly but it is a beautiful harmony with the tempo always changing and it's definitely never boring. Even when all my babes are asleep I listen to the rhythms of every breath they pass. I hear the wind against the windows and am thankful my family is warm inside. And although my thoughts may slow I still fall asleep with plans for the next day filling my mind.
I love this song even when it is at times stressful and I wouldn't trade it for the silent moments of my previous life or anything else. Must run baby E is ready for her change and so is the laundry. Can't let the tune stop and wouldn't want to anyway.:)
My current moment's peace is brought to you by the nursing baby on my chest and my two toddlers "reading" to each other on the living room floor. Someone witnessing the current scene might claim this is quiet, and compared to the more exciting moments of the day they may be technically right. But though my house is calm right now and my kids' variety of noises are all within normal volume levels my life is never quiet and the noises are constantly changing.
Right now I hear the lull of my washer going, it will soon finish it's cycle and I'll need to go put the load in the dryer. I hear the ice maker working, and E has now finished her meal and is working on a gift for me so I hear small baby grunts. C and J are now singing to each other. And in between these I hear my mind busily working, worrying, planning, for the next meal, moment, and necessity. Even while writing this I have a Thanksgiving grocery list forming in my mind, along with the menu for tonight's dinner, and plans to do some cleaning and decor before my Sister in laws arrive tonight.
This is the music of my life, the hymn of motherhood in an sense. No it is never quiet and the thought of true silence with children makes me very nervous honestly but it is a beautiful harmony with the tempo always changing and it's definitely never boring. Even when all my babes are asleep I listen to the rhythms of every breath they pass. I hear the wind against the windows and am thankful my family is warm inside. And although my thoughts may slow I still fall asleep with plans for the next day filling my mind.
I love this song even when it is at times stressful and I wouldn't trade it for the silent moments of my previous life or anything else. Must run baby E is ready for her change and so is the laundry. Can't let the tune stop and wouldn't want to anyway.:)
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Memories of Thanksgiving
I've been thinking about this a lot recently and wanted to write it down. This isn't as much about my current Thanksgiving as the ones in years past when I was growing up and how the holiday has changed for me.
Growing up, Thanksgiving was one of my favorite holidays and not for the food. My mom and I would go down to Atlanta to visit my grandparents, Mema and Granddaddy. and all my uncles would come over with their families. I remember how happy everyone was and the warmth of the get together. I remember silly things like playing with the motorized lounge chair in the front room to the side of the living room. I remember standing at the edge of the small kitchen and the dining room trying to peak at all the good food that was being made. I remember the excitement I got every time some one knocked on the door and I ran to greet yet another loved one. It was a surprise each time who would arrive next.
I can still imagine Mema's beautiful soft voice that sounded like she was singing to me when she called my mother's name. I remember Granddaddy sitting in his recliner and his rock collection. I remember Uncle Sam's hugs and how he'd kiss Granddaddy on his forehead when he arrived and before he left. I remember my cool big cousins who I thought of as the most beautiful girls I'd ever seen (inside and out) and who I wanted to be like when I grew up. I remember talking with Uncle Ken in the living room about how my school was going. Uncle Auby peeling potatoes and chopping onions. I remember us saying the blessing and what we were thankful for. And I remember always being a little sad when everyone had to go home but so happy and thankful I got to see them and celebrate with them.
Some years we had Thanksgiving at my mom's house in North Georgia. If the weather was nice we could eat and chat outside on the deck. I remember our various cats would come up to the sliding glass doors to see what was going on outside and Granddaddy would meow at them to get them to come closer to him. I remember all the people being in my mom's living room being a lit cramped but no one ever complained since we so enjoyed the company.
On Thanksgiving we also would celebrate my birthday which probably added to the fun for me but still my greatest gift was being surrounded by all that love.
The last Thanksgiving we had at my mom's house (when all my uncles and aunts were there) the main thing I remember is what I was thankful for, my Uncle Ken had finally stopped smoking. I still tear up thinking about how happy I was when he told me and saying that when it was my turn to give thanks.
The following year things changed drastically and my favorite holiday became my most dreaded. Before the next Thanksgiving Uncle Sam passed away suddenly of lung cancer that came out of nowhere . Uncle Ken was diagnosed with lung cancer as well. Mema broke her hip and had to go into a care facility to help in her recovery. That year my mom and I had Thanksgiving with Uncle Auby and his wife at a Vegetarian Chinese Restaurant after visiting Mema. This was the start of several years of sad Thanksgivings. My mom and I went to the Marietta Diner one year, other various restaurants for others and though I love spending the time with my mom I know it was a reminder to both of us of the people who were now missing from our celebration. We even had Thanksgiving at my Dad's house once with just my Dad, Mom, and I but even my Dad cried during the meal. The tradition of sad Thanksgivings continued. I lost the joy of Thanksgiving when we lost the family members we were so thankful for.
Finally at the age of 21 (almost 22) I had a wonderful Thanksgiving again. This was my first Thanksgiving at my husband's grandparents house in NC. With baby C in tow I was welcomed into my new extended family and into their traditions. The food was still the same as it had been years before, the same dishes, and made with the same love, though by different hands. The laughter returned and the comfort as well. My mom went to my sister's that year and had a great time celebrating Thanksgiving as well. The following year I went to NC again this time with J as well and it was again wonderful, warm, and welcoming. Last year we had Thanksgiving at my Mom's house for the first time I can remember since the last real Thanksgiving of my childhood. My sister came up with her family and once again the house was filled with love and happiness for the holiday.
When I married the love of my life and when my family grew into his I found Thanksgiving again. I still miss the family members I don't see for this holiday those who've passed and those who have just moved on to their own new traditions, but I hope I will be able to reconnect with them in the following years as well. And as I look towards the first Thanksgiving at my house, I am so happy and thankful that I'm not dreading any emptiness or that something will be missing. My house will be filled with love and family once again as well as with the smells of good food. I am Thankful for the time I got to spend with my family when I was little and am thankful that my children get to give thanks in a home filled with love as well and make their own memories for what I hope will be one of their favorite holidays.
Growing up, Thanksgiving was one of my favorite holidays and not for the food. My mom and I would go down to Atlanta to visit my grandparents, Mema and Granddaddy. and all my uncles would come over with their families. I remember how happy everyone was and the warmth of the get together. I remember silly things like playing with the motorized lounge chair in the front room to the side of the living room. I remember standing at the edge of the small kitchen and the dining room trying to peak at all the good food that was being made. I remember the excitement I got every time some one knocked on the door and I ran to greet yet another loved one. It was a surprise each time who would arrive next.
I can still imagine Mema's beautiful soft voice that sounded like she was singing to me when she called my mother's name. I remember Granddaddy sitting in his recliner and his rock collection. I remember Uncle Sam's hugs and how he'd kiss Granddaddy on his forehead when he arrived and before he left. I remember my cool big cousins who I thought of as the most beautiful girls I'd ever seen (inside and out) and who I wanted to be like when I grew up. I remember talking with Uncle Ken in the living room about how my school was going. Uncle Auby peeling potatoes and chopping onions. I remember us saying the blessing and what we were thankful for. And I remember always being a little sad when everyone had to go home but so happy and thankful I got to see them and celebrate with them.
Some years we had Thanksgiving at my mom's house in North Georgia. If the weather was nice we could eat and chat outside on the deck. I remember our various cats would come up to the sliding glass doors to see what was going on outside and Granddaddy would meow at them to get them to come closer to him. I remember all the people being in my mom's living room being a lit cramped but no one ever complained since we so enjoyed the company.
On Thanksgiving we also would celebrate my birthday which probably added to the fun for me but still my greatest gift was being surrounded by all that love.
The last Thanksgiving we had at my mom's house (when all my uncles and aunts were there) the main thing I remember is what I was thankful for, my Uncle Ken had finally stopped smoking. I still tear up thinking about how happy I was when he told me and saying that when it was my turn to give thanks.
The following year things changed drastically and my favorite holiday became my most dreaded. Before the next Thanksgiving Uncle Sam passed away suddenly of lung cancer that came out of nowhere . Uncle Ken was diagnosed with lung cancer as well. Mema broke her hip and had to go into a care facility to help in her recovery. That year my mom and I had Thanksgiving with Uncle Auby and his wife at a Vegetarian Chinese Restaurant after visiting Mema. This was the start of several years of sad Thanksgivings. My mom and I went to the Marietta Diner one year, other various restaurants for others and though I love spending the time with my mom I know it was a reminder to both of us of the people who were now missing from our celebration. We even had Thanksgiving at my Dad's house once with just my Dad, Mom, and I but even my Dad cried during the meal. The tradition of sad Thanksgivings continued. I lost the joy of Thanksgiving when we lost the family members we were so thankful for.
Finally at the age of 21 (almost 22) I had a wonderful Thanksgiving again. This was my first Thanksgiving at my husband's grandparents house in NC. With baby C in tow I was welcomed into my new extended family and into their traditions. The food was still the same as it had been years before, the same dishes, and made with the same love, though by different hands. The laughter returned and the comfort as well. My mom went to my sister's that year and had a great time celebrating Thanksgiving as well. The following year I went to NC again this time with J as well and it was again wonderful, warm, and welcoming. Last year we had Thanksgiving at my Mom's house for the first time I can remember since the last real Thanksgiving of my childhood. My sister came up with her family and once again the house was filled with love and happiness for the holiday.
When I married the love of my life and when my family grew into his I found Thanksgiving again. I still miss the family members I don't see for this holiday those who've passed and those who have just moved on to their own new traditions, but I hope I will be able to reconnect with them in the following years as well. And as I look towards the first Thanksgiving at my house, I am so happy and thankful that I'm not dreading any emptiness or that something will be missing. My house will be filled with love and family once again as well as with the smells of good food. I am Thankful for the time I got to spend with my family when I was little and am thankful that my children get to give thanks in a home filled with love as well and make their own memories for what I hope will be one of their favorite holidays.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Holidays Incoming
The holiday season is looming and I know already the next month is going to speed by in no time. I already have a fairly big to do list including lots of shopping, baking, and traveling (well not that much traveling but with 3 age 3 and under it seems like a lot).
To start there's less than a week till Thanksgiving! This year I will be hosting Thanksgiving and cooking most of it at our house. For the past few years we were in a small two bedroom apartment in the middle of the city so it was much more comfortable to get out of town and go up to North Carolina to visit hubby's grandparents. This year we finally have the space and comfortable surroundings to host a celebration here. So my mom, MIL, and sister-in-laws will be coming here for the holiday. It won't be as many people as years past but there will still be loads of food and lots of love which is what counts.
Exactly a week after Thanksgiving will be another celebration, though not a holiday of course, my 25th birthday! Wow I feel like I'm getting old, halfway to 50 and all that, but better to have the birthday than not for sure. We're not planning anything really and for the kids it's just an extra excuse for cake but still I'm a little excited. I've noticed on many forms recently I have to select 18-24 or 25-30 so someone out there seems to think 25 is a bigger deal if I get to move up a whole check box right?
A couple days after my birthday will be MIL's. Since she is staying in town for a bit right now I will probably try to have a family celebration for her. Last year she was here for her birthday as well and we got her a German Chocolate cheesecake and gift of a few nice scarves, wine sealer, and lots of chocolate. Not sure what we'll get her this year but chocolate will probably be involved again. She says she's already gotten the main thing she wanted, the new World of Warcraft game.
After the birthdays we will have a couple weeks till Christmas. During this time we will have to travel to North GA to visit my Dad and various extended family, and then to North Carolina to visit hubby's grandparents and aunts and uncles. We will probably do one of the trips before Christmas and one after. How long we spend will probably depend on how the road trip with three little ones goes. It's not too long a drive thankfully but still our first longer trip since E's arrival.
Christmas we will be spending at home as well. This will be the first year we can actually have a full size real Christmas tree and I plan to take advantage of that. The in-laws will be in town again for the celebrations (though not sure if that will be for the actual day of or not). My FIL will be coming from overseas and MIL is hoping for him and hubby to get some handy man stuff done together. One major thing we hope to have done is a play set in the back yard! I am very excited about this for the kids.
We're still trying to figure out if we'll be at home or in NC for New Year's but we're okay playing it by year still for now.
I also really hope to meet up with some of my more local relatives I haven't seen in way too long. Hopefully we can arrange some playdates with them as well!
So yes it will be a fairly busy month, making lots of new family memories. It should be exciting and perhaps a little overwhelming but definitely will be worth it.
To start there's less than a week till Thanksgiving! This year I will be hosting Thanksgiving and cooking most of it at our house. For the past few years we were in a small two bedroom apartment in the middle of the city so it was much more comfortable to get out of town and go up to North Carolina to visit hubby's grandparents. This year we finally have the space and comfortable surroundings to host a celebration here. So my mom, MIL, and sister-in-laws will be coming here for the holiday. It won't be as many people as years past but there will still be loads of food and lots of love which is what counts.
Exactly a week after Thanksgiving will be another celebration, though not a holiday of course, my 25th birthday! Wow I feel like I'm getting old, halfway to 50 and all that, but better to have the birthday than not for sure. We're not planning anything really and for the kids it's just an extra excuse for cake but still I'm a little excited. I've noticed on many forms recently I have to select 18-24 or 25-30 so someone out there seems to think 25 is a bigger deal if I get to move up a whole check box right?
A couple days after my birthday will be MIL's. Since she is staying in town for a bit right now I will probably try to have a family celebration for her. Last year she was here for her birthday as well and we got her a German Chocolate cheesecake and gift of a few nice scarves, wine sealer, and lots of chocolate. Not sure what we'll get her this year but chocolate will probably be involved again. She says she's already gotten the main thing she wanted, the new World of Warcraft game.
After the birthdays we will have a couple weeks till Christmas. During this time we will have to travel to North GA to visit my Dad and various extended family, and then to North Carolina to visit hubby's grandparents and aunts and uncles. We will probably do one of the trips before Christmas and one after. How long we spend will probably depend on how the road trip with three little ones goes. It's not too long a drive thankfully but still our first longer trip since E's arrival.
Christmas we will be spending at home as well. This will be the first year we can actually have a full size real Christmas tree and I plan to take advantage of that. The in-laws will be in town again for the celebrations (though not sure if that will be for the actual day of or not). My FIL will be coming from overseas and MIL is hoping for him and hubby to get some handy man stuff done together. One major thing we hope to have done is a play set in the back yard! I am very excited about this for the kids.
We're still trying to figure out if we'll be at home or in NC for New Year's but we're okay playing it by year still for now.
I also really hope to meet up with some of my more local relatives I haven't seen in way too long. Hopefully we can arrange some playdates with them as well!
So yes it will be a fairly busy month, making lots of new family memories. It should be exciting and perhaps a little overwhelming but definitely will be worth it.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Sibling Love from a 9 week old's perspective
Recently E has becoming more and more aware of her surroundings. She had the Mommy radar down early on. If I was in the room even before I said anything she seemed to know and would quickly show that she wanted to be transferred to my arms. As the weeks went by she became more aware of the other people who frequented her surroundings and the two most exciting of those are of course Big Sis C and Big Bro J. She loves to sit in her boppy pillow or swing and watch them play. She will grin and smile when they talk or sing to her. She will look around and roll a little from side to side (not onto the belly completely yet) to look for them if they go to their room and you can tell if she could she'd be running after them.
Monday E turned 2 months old and today she is 9 weeks old and the last couple days her connection to her siblings has extended yet again, now to crying. Luckily my 3 and 2 year olds do not cry that often and we have been able to deter a lot of the whining/tantrum stage however they do still have the random outbursts when they're tired or stir crazy (as has been the last couple days since the rain kept us inside). However, every time C or J cry I will soon hear the echo from E sympathizing with her big siblings. Whether she's in her bassinet or in my arms it doesn't matter if she hears them cry she must in turn and just as soon as they stop she does as well. As quick as a light switch she's on and then off again. Despite that I don't want her getting upset I also see the love in this and it's nice that I can say "you're upsetting your little sister" and they will stop in an attempt to soothe her as well. It amazes me that they already have this connection.
When E first starting doing it I thought maybe it was just that she didn't like the loud noise of them crying but it is specific to them crying. She's a very easy going baby overall and won't cry if they're just loud in general or even when our super loud house alarm is going off, but her big siblings being upset is the one sound she can't take. I can't think of this in any other way but a 9 week old's way of showing her love. She already wants her big sister and big brother to be happy and if they aren't she can't be. It's amazing for me to see this early form of sibling love and I look forward to seeing it grow and develop more in the days, weeks, months, and years to come.
Monday E turned 2 months old and today she is 9 weeks old and the last couple days her connection to her siblings has extended yet again, now to crying. Luckily my 3 and 2 year olds do not cry that often and we have been able to deter a lot of the whining/tantrum stage however they do still have the random outbursts when they're tired or stir crazy (as has been the last couple days since the rain kept us inside). However, every time C or J cry I will soon hear the echo from E sympathizing with her big siblings. Whether she's in her bassinet or in my arms it doesn't matter if she hears them cry she must in turn and just as soon as they stop she does as well. As quick as a light switch she's on and then off again. Despite that I don't want her getting upset I also see the love in this and it's nice that I can say "you're upsetting your little sister" and they will stop in an attempt to soothe her as well. It amazes me that they already have this connection.
When E first starting doing it I thought maybe it was just that she didn't like the loud noise of them crying but it is specific to them crying. She's a very easy going baby overall and won't cry if they're just loud in general or even when our super loud house alarm is going off, but her big siblings being upset is the one sound she can't take. I can't think of this in any other way but a 9 week old's way of showing her love. She already wants her big sister and big brother to be happy and if they aren't she can't be. It's amazing for me to see this early form of sibling love and I look forward to seeing it grow and develop more in the days, weeks, months, and years to come.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Kids Say 1
I have noted a few of the cute things my kids have come up with in the past but the last couple months I've been trying to document them more. Here's some of the few I've added to my "kids say" list recently which I found fairly amusing (I'm sure I'll have more of these added to the blog in the future).
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2009-2010 J's favorite phrase:Fix it please
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4/2010
C: This is a sticker I had when I was a little girl.
[Says the 2 year old at the time!]
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8/10
J: Mommy here I found your boobs! [while handing me my bra!]
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8/10
C:I want to watch two movies
Mom: You can watch one
C:Two
Mom: One
C:Yes One, and then another one
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9/1/10
C:Daddy needs to fix this when he gets home
Mom:I'll fix it later
C:But girls can't fix things!
(Long conversation followed this. Remember Mommy was very pregnant when we moved into our current house where Daddy did have to fix several things during the first few months)
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9/27/10
C: Mommy, Eva's belly button fell off!!!!
Mom: Yes but it's okay, Baby's belly buttons are supposed to do that
C: I'm a big girl so my belly button got put back on.
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9/28/10
C:Be quiet Mommy, I'm on the phone!
(while calling Ami...before she picked up)
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10/10
Mom:So what do you want to be when you grow up?
J:I want to be Bob the Builder and fix stuff
C:I want to be Dora when I'm a big girl...or a doctor
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11/10
J's current answer to every 'why' question: Because I needed to
J:I like Eva
Mom:Why do you like her?
J:Because I needed to
Mom:Well what does she do that you like?
J:She burps
Mom:What else?
J:She burps again
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Later the same day as the above:
C:Sometimes Eva whines and when she whines she needs her pacifier,
but when she grows big like us she won't need her pacifier anymore.
Mom:That's right.
C:But if she grows little again then she would need her pacifier again
Mom:Ummm...well...
C:But don't worry she won't grow little again when she's Big BIG BIG
-
11/16/10
C: Mommy! Jojo doesn't want to be the Mommy owl!
Mom:Well he wants to be a boy so why don't you let him be the Daddy owl?
C:Okay but who will be the Mommy owl?
Mom:You can be
C:But I want to be the baby owl
Mom: okay I'll be the Mommy owl
C:And what will that guy who goes to school be?
Mom: Who? Wait you mean Daddy?
C:Ya what will that guy be?
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C to J: That's not a car that's a box!
J (While pushing the box across the floor):But I can ride it. Somebody said so!
C:Why are you hiding in your box now?
J:Because I needed to.
-
2009-2010 J's favorite phrase:Fix it please
-
4/2010
C: This is a sticker I had when I was a little girl.
[Says the 2 year old at the time!]
-
8/10
J: Mommy here I found your boobs! [while handing me my bra!]
-
8/10
C:I want to watch two movies
Mom: You can watch one
C:Two
Mom: One
C:Yes One, and then another one
-
9/1/10
C:Daddy needs to fix this when he gets home
Mom:I'll fix it later
C:But girls can't fix things!
(Long conversation followed this. Remember Mommy was very pregnant when we moved into our current house where Daddy did have to fix several things during the first few months)
-
9/27/10
C: Mommy, Eva's belly button fell off!!!!
Mom: Yes but it's okay, Baby's belly buttons are supposed to do that
C: I'm a big girl so my belly button got put back on.
-
9/28/10
C:Be quiet Mommy, I'm on the phone!
(while calling Ami...before she picked up)
-
10/10
Mom:So what do you want to be when you grow up?
J:I want to be Bob the Builder and fix stuff
C:I want to be Dora when I'm a big girl...or a doctor
-
11/10
J's current answer to every 'why' question: Because I needed to
J:I like Eva
Mom:Why do you like her?
J:Because I needed to
Mom:Well what does she do that you like?
J:She burps
Mom:What else?
J:She burps again
-
Later the same day as the above:
C:Sometimes Eva whines and when she whines she needs her pacifier,
but when she grows big like us she won't need her pacifier anymore.
Mom:That's right.
C:But if she grows little again then she would need her pacifier again
Mom:Ummm...well...
C:But don't worry she won't grow little again when she's Big BIG BIG
-
11/16/10
C: Mommy! Jojo doesn't want to be the Mommy owl!
Mom:Well he wants to be a boy so why don't you let him be the Daddy owl?
C:Okay but who will be the Mommy owl?
Mom:You can be
C:But I want to be the baby owl
Mom: okay I'll be the Mommy owl
C:And what will that guy who goes to school be?
Mom: Who? Wait you mean Daddy?
C:Ya what will that guy be?
-
C to J: That's not a car that's a box!
J (While pushing the box across the floor):But I can ride it. Somebody said so!
C:Why are you hiding in your box now?
J:Because I needed to.
Monday, November 15, 2010
2 months of Miss E
E is 2 months old today! I can't believe how fast time is going by (you'd think I'd be used to this since she's #3 but it still surprises me.
At her doctor's appointment today she weighed 13lb3oz (from 8lbs11oz at birth, and 10lbs10oz at 1 month). She's growing great and is still breastfeeding exclusively. She wakes once a night for a feeding but other than that sleeps through. She's now lifting her head often to look around and of course try and keep up with what big sis and big bro are doing. Another one of her favorite things is to tell us stories in baby talk. I keep hoping she'll add some real words to them and I'm sure it will be here before I know it.
We are all doing well though busy as always thus me not updating til now. It's been rainy here recently. We're still having random cold days then really warm ones following. Hoping it settles down soon.
C and J are great helpers still and though they have been getting a little stir crazy from the bad weather they still will do anything for a chance to hold their little sis. They adore her. I can't wait till E is able to play with them though I also know it will be here before I know it.
Ok well I don't have too much more time to update now since I need to give the munchkins a bath but I will copy and paste my birth story for yall :) Hope everyone is doing well with their own little blessings! I will try and blog more soon!
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