Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Marvels of modern parenting
We are in week 3 of nap issues. We are generally doing the "cry it out method," which actually does work for Lucy, but she's still got some residual stuff going on. She climbed out of the crib for the 2nd time today. I am disciplining her for that, as it is not safe and she needs to know that bedtime and naptime are the law. She could see me peeking in the door, even at the bottom, and it aggravated her, so I got out the iSight (luckily we still have a separate one!), plugged it in and shoved it into the room. I sat out in the hall with my computer and watched her so I could take care of it if she climbed out. It was like observing an animal in her own habitat. Poor baby nearly fell asleep slumped over the railing.
Monday, November 12, 2007
The magic slippers
I have finished 3 of 4 red sweaters for the Earle-girl cousins for Christmas pictures. I'll make a matching scarf for Tanner, and we'll attempt a picture. Heavy emphasis on "attempt. =) I'm also in the middle of making slippers for the my sisters' girls. A heavenly thing to hit on a pattern that is so simple and fast, and yet makes something that people will really treasure.
I was thinking as I am working on these slippers that I learned to do this just a little too late. There are several people in my family that used to knit and crochet that are gone now, and oh how I wish that I could connect with them on these things now. My uncle used to make little toys and balls and things, and a special aunt on the other side of the family made the slippers and blankets. I wish I could just pour a cup of coffee and sit and work with them. There is something so wholesome about the idea of them. I have decided that I will be satisfied with honoring them and thinking of them and keeping their memories alive as I work. And I have an immense joy in connecting with my mom and with my mother-in-law over yarn.
I was thinking as I am working on these slippers that I learned to do this just a little too late. There are several people in my family that used to knit and crochet that are gone now, and oh how I wish that I could connect with them on these things now. My uncle used to make little toys and balls and things, and a special aunt on the other side of the family made the slippers and blankets. I wish I could just pour a cup of coffee and sit and work with them. There is something so wholesome about the idea of them. I have decided that I will be satisfied with honoring them and thinking of them and keeping their memories alive as I work. And I have an immense joy in connecting with my mom and with my mother-in-law over yarn.
The Living Desert
Yesterday we went with Mimi and Papa to the Living Desert in Palm Desert. Gorgeous weather, wonderful day, and just loads of fun. Lucy even got adventurous! She had a grand time.
Brushing the goats. Mmmmmmmmeeeeeeh!
My favorite kind of snake!
Ferferfly and her lovely assistant.
Brushing the goats. Mmmmmmmmeeeeeeh!
My favorite kind of snake!
Ferferfly and her lovely assistant.
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
My awesome sister!
Birthday wishes to my best friend and sister! I love and respect her so much, and I'm so proud of the wonderful life she has built for her family. We had so many rough days as kids--we weren't always the best of friends growing up--but now we are super tight and call or ichat every day. She is one of the most creative, inventive people I know, she is fiercely loyal, intelligent and fun. So here's to Sari! (Sair-ee, phonetically.)
Christmas 1977
High school... I think this was when we became friends. (Like my socks with my flats??)
My matron of honor. Doesn't she look so pretty??
Christmas 1977
High school... I think this was when we became friends. (Like my socks with my flats??)
My matron of honor. Doesn't she look so pretty??
Sunday, November 04, 2007
Smorgasbord
Well, I'm sick. Blech. Started last night with just weary body, feeling like I just had to sit down. Had a horrid sleep with resultant achy body. By mid-afternoon today, the nose-faucet turned on. Ah well. Steve is home today, which I'm so grateful for. Tomorrow, Lucy gets to watch lots of television!
Had my craft boutique this weekend, and I was delighted that one of my sweaters sold! The remainder will go to sister-in-law Amy, who is auctioning some items for a family who is dealing with leukemia (the dad). I just started the sweaters for Lucy and 3 of her girl cousins, and I'm laughing at the mistakes that my fuzzy sick brain caused. Luckily I think they are not irrevocable.
Started some Christmas shopping, and I'm delighted to be buying 4 gifts from the same website, saving a ton on shipping. Hooray! Figured out inexpensive gifts for all the nieces and nephews. Ah, that is lovely. Very excited about a couple of my ideas this year. If you have good ideas, especially for fathers-in-law and brothers-in-law, do share!
Have a good, kleenex-free week, all.
Had my craft boutique this weekend, and I was delighted that one of my sweaters sold! The remainder will go to sister-in-law Amy, who is auctioning some items for a family who is dealing with leukemia (the dad). I just started the sweaters for Lucy and 3 of her girl cousins, and I'm laughing at the mistakes that my fuzzy sick brain caused. Luckily I think they are not irrevocable.
Started some Christmas shopping, and I'm delighted to be buying 4 gifts from the same website, saving a ton on shipping. Hooray! Figured out inexpensive gifts for all the nieces and nephews. Ah, that is lovely. Very excited about a couple of my ideas this year. If you have good ideas, especially for fathers-in-law and brothers-in-law, do share!
Have a good, kleenex-free week, all.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
My first Halloween Mom Outing
Last year was fun and games... put the baby in a suit, off to a party. This year, once we actually go the kid IN the suit (took some finessing... and some Thomas the Train), she had a grand time. I couldn't believe I was actually taking my kid trick-or-treating, and it was just a blast. We went with our neighbors. Her husband is a cop and has to work Halloween, so it was a nice joining of the forces. When I was little, we always went as a group through the neighborhood, and I have the best memories of that. After our few stops in the neighborhood to the houses we knew, we went "visiting" to the Royal Geringers' house and enjoyed their company while the kids enjoyed (who else but...) Thomas the Train.
Too much talking, not enough pictures. Here you go:
This is 3-year-old Olivia from across the street. Or "Ole" as we like to call her. =)
The ghost of Lucy the Monkey...
Too much talking, not enough pictures. Here you go:
This is 3-year-old Olivia from across the street. Or "Ole" as we like to call her. =)
The ghost of Lucy the Monkey...
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
The wares themselves
Tell me what you think of the prices.. too high or low? Don't be nice, be honest.
Set of blocks and ball (with a little bell in the middle!) - $20
In pink... $20
Cream and roses sweater - aprox. 6 mos. - $35
Taffy pink sweater, approx 6 mos. - $35
Fluffy duckling sweater - aprox 3 mos. $35
Set of blocks and ball (with a little bell in the middle!) - $20
In pink... $20
Cream and roses sweater - aprox. 6 mos. - $35
Taffy pink sweater, approx 6 mos. - $35
Fluffy duckling sweater - aprox 3 mos. $35
Monday, October 29, 2007
Selling my wares
So this weekend is the time when we find out if people really want to buy my stuff. I'm selling 3 sweaters and two sets of balls and blocks. I'd hoped to finish a few more things, but ran out of steam with the Seattle trip... plus I made a bunch of stuff for my sister and nieces while I was up there, trying to get rid of excess yarn (trouble was--Sair bought me NEW yarn!).
Here are the details of the boutique, and I would absolutely love it if you locals stopped by. I will only be there on Saturday from 2-4, but my stuff will be at Paula Carrigan's table (see here for a preview of her stuff).
Here are the details of the boutique, and I would absolutely love it if you locals stopped by. I will only be there on Saturday from 2-4, but my stuff will be at Paula Carrigan's table (see here for a preview of her stuff).
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Ashes, Ashes, we all come Home
I wish I could adequately describe our wonderful trip. It was beautiful, beautiful, beautiful. Sooo wonderful to see my Northern family.Lucy loves her cousins, and did great on all flights. The reason I'm not saying more is that we came home to a yard coated in ash-grime from the fires over 90 degree weather, and a falling-apart Lucy (clingy/called out of church/ bad nap / worse bedtime / first climbing out of crib incident). But we also came back to my wonderful brother and wonderful friends, and a home that I love.
Pictures here...
Pictures here...
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Off we go!!
Finally, after 2 years of my sister living in Washington, we get to go and see them! I'm just dying to go see where they live!We'll see this...
This... (Oh, yeah!)
and THIS! That's my idea of an awesome vacation!
Thursday, October 11, 2007
What a nice day
Thanks for all the birthday love, friends! It somehow always surprises me to get birthday wishes, which makes it such fun.
I love being a self-appointed queen for the day. I believe in reasonable indulgence and out-of-the ordinary for one's birthday. So today Steve took the day off (a huge indulgence for me!), and we trooped off to the aquarium.
Lucy was a bit over stimulated by it all, but had fun anyway, just running, running, running. She now knows what a sea lion is, and that it does not, in fact, say, "Raaar!" but rather, "Arr Arr!" We made a little book from all the pictures of the day, and she's having fun going back through and naming all her fishies.
The two seconds she held still long enough for me to get a shot.
Not the greatest picture, as Squirmy Pants was on the move, but we LOVED the tropical fish where Jeff works. Probably spent the most amount of time there of any one area.
Playing "Where's Lucy" after coming home. Her best, most genuine, beautiful smiles happen during this game. Now about the hair... I know we're going for the Meg Ryan look these days, but sheesh.
Of course, exotic though the aquarium may be, the crown jewel of Lucy's day was the trip to the Buena Park train station to see the trains go by. I snapped lots of pictures for her little book, to the perplexed glances of the commuters. I think it would be like someone stopping in the street as you got into your car and animately snapping pictures with their child pointing away. I feel awfully... Asian touristy... =) I really enjoyed having Steve get to see Lucy watching the trains. It's not exactly exciting, but she just loves it so much!
Dinner was excellent, thanks to the provision and delivery service of the Original Jennifer Earle. Seeing her at all was a nice surprise, as we weren't expecting to see her until November. Steve and I were both just too tired to go out after dinner as originally planned, but we played some Wii and watched Planet Earth (highly, highly recommend Netflixing this one), and I enjoyed just crocheting away on sweater #2. (Pink with brown ribbon, similar design to the recent sweater.)
Way past time for bed... one day I will sleep in again...
I love being a self-appointed queen for the day. I believe in reasonable indulgence and out-of-the ordinary for one's birthday. So today Steve took the day off (a huge indulgence for me!), and we trooped off to the aquarium.
Lucy was a bit over stimulated by it all, but had fun anyway, just running, running, running. She now knows what a sea lion is, and that it does not, in fact, say, "Raaar!" but rather, "Arr Arr!" We made a little book from all the pictures of the day, and she's having fun going back through and naming all her fishies.
The two seconds she held still long enough for me to get a shot.
Not the greatest picture, as Squirmy Pants was on the move, but we LOVED the tropical fish where Jeff works. Probably spent the most amount of time there of any one area. 
Playing "Where's Lucy" after coming home. Her best, most genuine, beautiful smiles happen during this game. Now about the hair... I know we're going for the Meg Ryan look these days, but sheesh.
Of course, exotic though the aquarium may be, the crown jewel of Lucy's day was the trip to the Buena Park train station to see the trains go by. I snapped lots of pictures for her little book, to the perplexed glances of the commuters. I think it would be like someone stopping in the street as you got into your car and animately snapping pictures with their child pointing away. I feel awfully... Asian touristy... =) I really enjoyed having Steve get to see Lucy watching the trains. It's not exactly exciting, but she just loves it so much!
Dinner was excellent, thanks to the provision and delivery service of the Original Jennifer Earle. Seeing her at all was a nice surprise, as we weren't expecting to see her until November. Steve and I were both just too tired to go out after dinner as originally planned, but we played some Wii and watched Planet Earth (highly, highly recommend Netflixing this one), and I enjoyed just crocheting away on sweater #2. (Pink with brown ribbon, similar design to the recent sweater.)
Way past time for bed... one day I will sleep in again...
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Twenty-teen!
So today is the beginning of my 3-day birthday. Somehow I always manage to milk a few extra days out of my birthday. =) Today my dear friend Mandi babysat so I could go blow my birthday money on clothes! It was delightful. I had coffee and a muffin at Panera, by myself. I hunted and pecked and gathered (at the very posh J.C. Penny) by myself. I grinned and grinned. All the summer stuff is on über-sale, and since we have 6 more weeks of summer (it's like a reverse ground-hog day), I loaded up. Nearly overdosed on short-sleeved hoodies, but kept it to 2. Did not purchase "Mom jeans," though was tempted.
Now, to explain the title, if you keep counting from 19 and stay in the "teens," twenty would be "ten-teen." So keep counting.
Before I go on, I should mention something. Often if someone forgets to wish me a happy birthday, they feel bad, like they've disappointed me or done something wrong. Even dear people who get the day wrong and wish it early or late feel mortified! But guess what? I'm about the most forgiving person in that arena that you're going to find. (I have plenty of other faults, so I don't have a problem hilighting something good in this case! Ha!) The absolute honest truth is that I never expect people to have to remember my birthday, and I really feel like it's my own responsibility to "make my own fun," so if you do remember the birthday, it's frosting! I even feel a little this way about my husband. He will never forget my birthday, because why wait and see if he forgets it and just set everyone up for yuckiness? I like to tell him what I'd like to do, and then we all enjoy it together.
This said, the next day of 3-day-birthday includes the aquarium tomorrow, then probably take-out Macaroni Grill for dinner, then desert and "drinks" for Steve and I after Lucy goes down. SUPER YAY! Then it just worked out that the day all the "Bible Study Girls" can get together for our periodic Girls' Night is Friday night, so I get Cheesecake Factory with the girls! Woo-hoo! Can you imagine a better 3 days? I know I can't!
I'm all bouncy-fun today. If Lucy were old enough, she would need to learn that if she wanted something, today would be the day to ask me. =)
So much love to all of you good people. I love finding out the broad and wonderful spectrum of people who like to check in with my life (like finding out recently that Kari reads my blog! YAY!). I love that you care enough about me to want to know what's going on in my life... and that I am at least mildly entertaining, so you actually come back! I think of each of you as I write these, like I'm talking to you "at the water cooler." Okay, well, Ry-bear, this is probably a little too happy-fun for you... but you know you love me anyway.
P.S. Never forget that 31 years ago tomorrow, the 9'ers welcomed me into the world by whoppin' some hiney against the former L.A. Rams!! Take it!
Now, to explain the title, if you keep counting from 19 and stay in the "teens," twenty would be "ten-teen." So keep counting.
Before I go on, I should mention something. Often if someone forgets to wish me a happy birthday, they feel bad, like they've disappointed me or done something wrong. Even dear people who get the day wrong and wish it early or late feel mortified! But guess what? I'm about the most forgiving person in that arena that you're going to find. (I have plenty of other faults, so I don't have a problem hilighting something good in this case! Ha!) The absolute honest truth is that I never expect people to have to remember my birthday, and I really feel like it's my own responsibility to "make my own fun," so if you do remember the birthday, it's frosting! I even feel a little this way about my husband. He will never forget my birthday, because why wait and see if he forgets it and just set everyone up for yuckiness? I like to tell him what I'd like to do, and then we all enjoy it together.
This said, the next day of 3-day-birthday includes the aquarium tomorrow, then probably take-out Macaroni Grill for dinner, then desert and "drinks" for Steve and I after Lucy goes down. SUPER YAY! Then it just worked out that the day all the "Bible Study Girls" can get together for our periodic Girls' Night is Friday night, so I get Cheesecake Factory with the girls! Woo-hoo! Can you imagine a better 3 days? I know I can't!
I'm all bouncy-fun today. If Lucy were old enough, she would need to learn that if she wanted something, today would be the day to ask me. =)
So much love to all of you good people. I love finding out the broad and wonderful spectrum of people who like to check in with my life (like finding out recently that Kari reads my blog! YAY!). I love that you care enough about me to want to know what's going on in my life... and that I am at least mildly entertaining, so you actually come back! I think of each of you as I write these, like I'm talking to you "at the water cooler." Okay, well, Ry-bear, this is probably a little too happy-fun for you... but you know you love me anyway.
P.S. Never forget that 31 years ago tomorrow, the 9'ers welcomed me into the world by whoppin' some hiney against the former L.A. Rams!! Take it!
Friday, October 05, 2007
Latest Sweater
I wanted to post a good picture instead of my Photo Booth picture, but I couldn't wait... I had to post a picture of my new sweater. I saw this stitch on a blanket over at Posie Gets Cozy,
and I was inspired. This little one is for about a 3 month old, and I am going to sell it at a Christmas Boutique I've been invited to join. I'm trying to decide how much to sell it for. I've been looking around the internet to see what this sort of thing is going for. At any rate, the checklist lover in me is just enjoying that it is done! Still working on sets of baby blocks for the boutique, then I will try to do two more sweaters if I can. It is just way too fun!
Oh, and I think I'd like to start naming my sweaters, as I've seen done. I haven't settled on anything yet, so we'll see what happens.
and I was inspired. This little one is for about a 3 month old, and I am going to sell it at a Christmas Boutique I've been invited to join. I'm trying to decide how much to sell it for. I've been looking around the internet to see what this sort of thing is going for. At any rate, the checklist lover in me is just enjoying that it is done! Still working on sets of baby blocks for the boutique, then I will try to do two more sweaters if I can. It is just way too fun!
Oh, and I think I'd like to start naming my sweaters, as I've seen done. I haven't settled on anything yet, so we'll see what happens.
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
Tote Lust
I finally came to admit it... I have developed a lust for handmade bags. I want bags! I should make them myself, but I am not sewing much these days (too many crochet projects on tap, plus I am a lazy seamstress). So I decided to tip my mom off to Etsy for Christmas. I have looked up a bunch of cute purses, like this one on Wendy's Etsy site.
I think I am going a little crazy looking at them and wishing I weren't such a lazy hiney at sewing. =) I mean, with bags like these, can you blame me??
This one is from Etsy.
(This one is Wendy's, too, but not for sale.)
I think I am going a little crazy looking at them and wishing I weren't such a lazy hiney at sewing. =) I mean, with bags like these, can you blame me??
This one is from Etsy.
(This one is Wendy's, too, but not for sale.)
Monday, October 01, 2007
The things that make me feel cozy
Though the days are still warm (high 80's today and tomorrow), we've made it past the screaming evil-ness of summer. Ah, thank you Lord! Our nights are nice and cool, and I snuggle down under the blankets at night.
I think the lingering fun of a new school year is still in my blood. I'm feeling all organizy. Of course, much of that is focused on what I will need for our trip to Seattle in a few weeks. I'm making lists and buying little things we need, and just having a blast with it all. I'm such a weirdo... I love lists. =) By the way, any tips you may have on flying with a 21-month-old would be greatly appreciated. I've got a few tricks up my sleeve (pull books/toys out of circulation now so they seem new, bring "fun" food, DVD player, etc.), but you all are so creative!
The coat I found for $4.99! Isn't it uber cute??
The new umbrella stroller, paid for with money given to us at Lucy's shower almost 2 years ago! Hooray!
The new shoes... didn't mean to match my own, but apparently my taste is consistent. =) Between them, these shoes will work with any colored outfit she has, with nice clothes and play clothes, warm weather and cold weather. Oh yeah, talk about excited!! I do think it's amazing that she's a size 7... our friends who have a 4-year-old buy size 6 1/2...
I think I resonate with the Proverb 31 (31? Might be the wrong Proverb) woman... the one that goes out and looks for cloth and takes care of the needs of her family. There's something so right about taking care of your family in a responsible and frugal way. It's something I enjoy striving toward.
I think the lingering fun of a new school year is still in my blood. I'm feeling all organizy. Of course, much of that is focused on what I will need for our trip to Seattle in a few weeks. I'm making lists and buying little things we need, and just having a blast with it all. I'm such a weirdo... I love lists. =) By the way, any tips you may have on flying with a 21-month-old would be greatly appreciated. I've got a few tricks up my sleeve (pull books/toys out of circulation now so they seem new, bring "fun" food, DVD player, etc.), but you all are so creative!
The coat I found for $4.99! Isn't it uber cute??
The new umbrella stroller, paid for with money given to us at Lucy's shower almost 2 years ago! Hooray!
The new shoes... didn't mean to match my own, but apparently my taste is consistent. =) Between them, these shoes will work with any colored outfit she has, with nice clothes and play clothes, warm weather and cold weather. Oh yeah, talk about excited!! I do think it's amazing that she's a size 7... our friends who have a 4-year-old buy size 6 1/2...
I think I resonate with the Proverb 31 (31? Might be the wrong Proverb) woman... the one that goes out and looks for cloth and takes care of the needs of her family. There's something so right about taking care of your family in a responsible and frugal way. It's something I enjoy striving toward.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Welcome to the World, LJ
So remember that shower I went to on Sunday? That baby was due on Oct. 23rd, but decided to show up yesterday! This is Steve's brother, Jamie, and his wife, Shannon, welcoming their teeny little "Peanut." Everyone is just fine, and there wasn't even a glitch in the delivery. We're guessing the due-date was a bit off, because the baby is small, but not super small, and is all perfectly developed. No NICU for the Earles!! So Shannon had planned to go to work that day and ended up with a new little bundle instead.
Here are pictures. Jamie's face reminds me a lot of Steve's when Lucy was born...
Lila Jo Louise Earle; Born Sept. 25th, 5:31 p.m., 6lbs, 19".
Here are pictures. Jamie's face reminds me a lot of Steve's when Lucy was born...
Lila Jo Louise Earle; Born Sept. 25th, 5:31 p.m., 6lbs, 19".
Monday, September 24, 2007
A week in photos
I drove up to Selma for the weekend so that I could be at a shower for my sister-in-law in Oakdale while my dear mom babysat. It went mostly great! Easy drives on all legs, great sleep for Lucy (not so much for me, unfortunately), and just a nice time with everyone on all ends of the journey.
Now, I wish I could blame my absent-mindedness on something. I thought the shower was at 2... it was at 1. I left the gift at home! Thankfully that was about it... but totally blond moments. I thought that since my hair is now "the color formerly known as blond," I wouldn't have blond moments anymore! Ah well.
Here are some pictures of our week. Thanks for always indulging me with pictures of my kid... I can't help it... she's such a dynamic subject. =)
This is at Heritage Park in Cerritos... behind her is the moat surrounding the little Island full of play houses...
She is a full-fledged Earle!
The eyes that will get her out of trouble...
Watching the 9'ers get killed with Grandpa. It was a grim day.
Gwammie! Wead! A CHUG CHUG! (Grammie, please read the Polar Express!)
Now, I wish I could blame my absent-mindedness on something. I thought the shower was at 2... it was at 1. I left the gift at home! Thankfully that was about it... but totally blond moments. I thought that since my hair is now "the color formerly known as blond," I wouldn't have blond moments anymore! Ah well.
Here are some pictures of our week. Thanks for always indulging me with pictures of my kid... I can't help it... she's such a dynamic subject. =)
This is at Heritage Park in Cerritos... behind her is the moat surrounding the little Island full of play houses...
She is a full-fledged Earle!
The eyes that will get her out of trouble...
Watching the 9'ers get killed with Grandpa. It was a grim day.
Gwammie! Wead! A CHUG CHUG! (Grammie, please read the Polar Express!)
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
The things that make life fun
Today I went to my first Mugs group (our church's version of MOPS). Last year it was always during Lucy's nap, which was a source of huge stress at the time. I think last year I wasn't quite ready for it. I haven't had good experiences with Bible Studies, so it's taken me a long time to be up to this. I had a really nice time, as I know a lot of people there now. They brought in "Color Me Mine" so we could paint coffee mugs. I'm pretty happy with mine except for the inside of the cup. I had to hurry, as Lucy was fading, so it is going to be splotchy and streaky. I'll snap a picture when I get it back in 2 weeks.
I smiled at Ms. Nomer's account of her first MOPS group today, as her sentiments sounded so familiar. I've reflected a lot in the last almost 2 years about how paranoid I used to be of going into that Mom zone. But now somewhere in there it dawned on me that cool people become moms, too--intelligent, fun, sweet people--and not just the type of people at another church I once went to that I knew I never could have connected with. It's been a real joy to get to know such real people, and bond with them over the wonderful craziness that is motherhood.
Here are my two favorite people in the world:
Chianti bottle, or botched crochet project? (Project is fine now... will show it when it's finished.)
The same crime, 30 years apart.
I smiled at Ms. Nomer's account of her first MOPS group today, as her sentiments sounded so familiar. I've reflected a lot in the last almost 2 years about how paranoid I used to be of going into that Mom zone. But now somewhere in there it dawned on me that cool people become moms, too--intelligent, fun, sweet people--and not just the type of people at another church I once went to that I knew I never could have connected with. It's been a real joy to get to know such real people, and bond with them over the wonderful craziness that is motherhood.
Here are my two favorite people in the world:
Chianti bottle, or botched crochet project? (Project is fine now... will show it when it's finished.)
The same crime, 30 years apart.
Monday, September 17, 2007
My Monday Night
Steve is taking Expository Preaching this semester at Talbot (a pre-req. in case he decides to do the Th.M), which takes place from 6:30 to 9:00 on Monday nights. At first I dreaded this... 2 more hours alone with the kiddo? But it has turned out to be a wonderful thing! Somehow I've seemed to have more energy for her after dinner than I do during the day--maybe because I'm not trying to get my own stuff done at the same time. Then, the moment she's in bed, it becomes all about ME for an hour! I have decided that I will spend that hour in complete self-indulgence all 15 weeks of the semester. Last week I finished reading a book I've been working on for well over a year, believe it or not (Sanditon, a completed fragment of Jane Austen's... might review that on Slayers of Evil Media). This week I started to finish Surprised by Joy (C.S. Lewis, as I'm sure you all know), which I started more than a year ago.
I sit out on our new patio furniture and allow myself to really get cold in this lovely weather. I bring out an insulated caraffe of decaf tea, and each week I will select a different delicate tea cup to use. Last week was a cup given to me by two spinster sisters that lived together until they died. They were dear women and friends of my father's in particular. They gave that cup to me for my wedding, and I had not yet used it. It was particularly expensive in its day and I believe is a bit of a treasure. I have no intention of selling it, so I decided to use it rather than just preserve it. Tonight was a teacup that was given to me by Steve's mom from her mother's collection just after she died. Next week will be my own dear china, which as its own story.
I felt very British drinking my tea and reading Lewis. Of course, I had the audacity to drink it "neat."
I sit out on our new patio furniture and allow myself to really get cold in this lovely weather. I bring out an insulated caraffe of decaf tea, and each week I will select a different delicate tea cup to use. Last week was a cup given to me by two spinster sisters that lived together until they died. They were dear women and friends of my father's in particular. They gave that cup to me for my wedding, and I had not yet used it. It was particularly expensive in its day and I believe is a bit of a treasure. I have no intention of selling it, so I decided to use it rather than just preserve it. Tonight was a teacup that was given to me by Steve's mom from her mother's collection just after she died. Next week will be my own dear china, which as its own story.
I felt very British drinking my tea and reading Lewis. Of course, I had the audacity to drink it "neat."
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Follow-up
Thank you to everyone who wrote to me about their experience with prayer! I am at a really cool place with this right now. I've spent a lot of my life feeling guilty, or like I'm "not doing it right" in so many areas of my spiritual life. What I'm trying to do is break some things down and do them in a way that fits who I am--not trying too hard to be the way a particular preacher or camp director spouted in a rally atmosphere. I recently prayed that God would help me find a time during the day that I could start a regular Bible reading. It has bounced all over the place as Lucy has changed habits in the last two years... It used to be in the early mornings when I fed Lucy (read the Bible on-line!), and then it was during bath time (she played so quietly for so long!). Now it is at the beginning of her naps. That used to be part of my dinner prep time, but I'm just praying God will help me find other times during the day when I can do the prep. So far it's been extremely rewarding.
Here are a few things I'm doing right now that are really freeing me up to make this a useful time:
* I'm using sticky notes in my Bible to just write down questions and observations to help me stay engaged in my reading. No epiphanies necessary, just write a few things. This came from a class I had in grad school that required that we write 3 questions 2 observations and 1 take-away for every reading to make sure we were using our minds as we read.
* I'm keeping stickies with prayer needs in the back. I'm not trying to dive into a particular format, except that I am trying to make sure I am praising God, thanking him, presenting my requests, and asking forgiveness. I'm trying to let this be somewhat organic, again just writing down the things that come to mind, and not trying to force anything.
* I was feeling a little frustrated knowing where to start with praising God, though again wanting to let it be organic. I pulled out my hymnal and started singing hymns! I love to sing, and there is so much good theology packed into those older hymns. What a delight!
Here are two (here and then here) really, really good articles (quick reads) that I found about prayer. I love Stand to Reason... they have a fantastic attitude about evangelism, and seem to come from a really no frills, "what is the truth" way of thinking. It's fitting me well right now.
Thanks for being on the journey with me!
Here are a few things I'm doing right now that are really freeing me up to make this a useful time:
* I'm using sticky notes in my Bible to just write down questions and observations to help me stay engaged in my reading. No epiphanies necessary, just write a few things. This came from a class I had in grad school that required that we write 3 questions 2 observations and 1 take-away for every reading to make sure we were using our minds as we read.
* I'm keeping stickies with prayer needs in the back. I'm not trying to dive into a particular format, except that I am trying to make sure I am praising God, thanking him, presenting my requests, and asking forgiveness. I'm trying to let this be somewhat organic, again just writing down the things that come to mind, and not trying to force anything.
* I was feeling a little frustrated knowing where to start with praising God, though again wanting to let it be organic. I pulled out my hymnal and started singing hymns! I love to sing, and there is so much good theology packed into those older hymns. What a delight!
Here are two (here and then here) really, really good articles (quick reads) that I found about prayer. I love Stand to Reason... they have a fantastic attitude about evangelism, and seem to come from a really no frills, "what is the truth" way of thinking. It's fitting me well right now.
Thanks for being on the journey with me!
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
The Earle weekend plus
What a nice weekend! Just "stuff" you know?
Just photos for now... brain feels squishy.
New picnic table for Lucy... she has loved other peoples' tiny tables. However, she hasn't taken to this one as fiercely as I'd hoped. Still cute, though.
Finally finished the little path for Lucy is finished, and some vincas put in for color.
The new patio table. The surfboard is newly hung as well.
My own personal Guernica...
Just photos for now... brain feels squishy.
New picnic table for Lucy... she has loved other peoples' tiny tables. However, she hasn't taken to this one as fiercely as I'd hoped. Still cute, though.
Finally finished the little path for Lucy is finished, and some vincas put in for color.
The new patio table. The surfboard is newly hung as well.
My own personal Guernica...
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
Another request
If you are a regular reader of this blog, and you are a follower of Christ, I have a question for you, and I would like to humbly request that each of you answer if you are so inclined, and only to the extent that you are comfortable. If you'd rather respond to me in person, please do.
I'd really like to know something about how you learned to pray, and how you do pray. Give me as much or as little as you like. Here are some questions that are in my head that give context to your answers:
Did you come to follow Christ at an early age or a late age? Were you raised in a Christian home/church? Do you use words and sentences in your head? Do you write your prayers? Do you use fragments of thoughts? Is it easy or frustrating to pray? What kinds of things do you pray for? How do you begin? Do you follow a "format?" When do you pray? How often?
I've been thinking of these things because a.) I often feel that my prayer life is still growing and I am still often haunted by the odd guilt that says I must not be "doing it right." (I believe this guilt comes from lots of motivational speakers and "the camp syndrome.") b.) I'd like to bring up Lucy with a solid, sound understanding of how to pray. c.) I feel incredibly blessed to have so many friends who believe that Jesus is the way to reconcile us with God, and I always appreciate any chance I have to connect with you on that and learn from you.
Thanks for your answers, short or long. I look forward to what you have to say!
I'd really like to know something about how you learned to pray, and how you do pray. Give me as much or as little as you like. Here are some questions that are in my head that give context to your answers:
Did you come to follow Christ at an early age or a late age? Were you raised in a Christian home/church? Do you use words and sentences in your head? Do you write your prayers? Do you use fragments of thoughts? Is it easy or frustrating to pray? What kinds of things do you pray for? How do you begin? Do you follow a "format?" When do you pray? How often?
I've been thinking of these things because a.) I often feel that my prayer life is still growing and I am still often haunted by the odd guilt that says I must not be "doing it right." (I believe this guilt comes from lots of motivational speakers and "the camp syndrome.") b.) I'd like to bring up Lucy with a solid, sound understanding of how to pray. c.) I feel incredibly blessed to have so many friends who believe that Jesus is the way to reconcile us with God, and I always appreciate any chance I have to connect with you on that and learn from you.
Thanks for your answers, short or long. I look forward to what you have to say!
A day in the life
Since I ran across that article a few weeks ago that I mentioned in my blog, I have been thinking and thinking about what I didn't know about how a day goes and what keeps an at-home mom busy (or out-of-the-home working moms when they're not at work). I think I'd heard some of this, but whenever I thought about it, I was either mystified or terrified (hence not in a hurry to have kids). I keep thinking of these vignettes of skills I've had to learn, all of which will be very familiar to my pals with kids, and even familiar to those who are close with people who have kids. I hope this makes you smile!
In the shower:
1.) I"m lucky enough that Lucy still will allow me to put her in front of a video while I grab a very quick shower. However, that time is extremely volatile. So while she is running around, I grab my towel and clothes, put it in the bathroom. Get out anything I will need after the shower, like deodorant. Take my daily meds before I get in the shower. This could take 3 minutes or 30 minutes, depending on what kind of mood Lucy is in. I finally get her plugged into the video (all the time with the nagging voices of "The Guilt Creators" about how you shouldn't use television as a babysitter).
2.) I now prioritize what I do first. (Bathroom door is open, by the way.) Wash hair first as fast as possible, that way I can jump out of the shower fast if I need to. Then soap, and only if I'm feeling confident, do I shave. You can, of course, shave with baby oil out of the shower later if you have to. Jump out, dry off as quick as possible, get essential undergarments on as quick as possible. You are now able to move about the cabin if you must. Then, constantly assessing Lucy's attentiveness and knowing anything may get cut short, I then prioritize everything that's left into the "I could manage to do that if she's not looking" or "I'd better try to do this now" categories. Examples in column A are: cleaning ears, putting on my minimal makeup; Examples in column B are "Blowing hot air at my head in the middle of summer" (making hair minimally presentable).
3.) If I'm reeeally lucky, at the end of 15 min. I'll be clean, have dry hair, clothes on, a little bit of makeup, and then I might even be able to sit down and eat my yogurt without someone climbing up me like a cat scratch post saying, "Piece! Piece!" (which meas, "Gimme somma dat!").
4.) If I'm really, reeeeeaaally lucky, I can also unload the dishwasher! This rarely happens, however, as I generally don't get past paragraph 2.
Hope this gives you a smile. If I get around to it, I will do "grocery store skills," "bed-making skills" or "making dinner skills."
In the shower:
1.) I"m lucky enough that Lucy still will allow me to put her in front of a video while I grab a very quick shower. However, that time is extremely volatile. So while she is running around, I grab my towel and clothes, put it in the bathroom. Get out anything I will need after the shower, like deodorant. Take my daily meds before I get in the shower. This could take 3 minutes or 30 minutes, depending on what kind of mood Lucy is in. I finally get her plugged into the video (all the time with the nagging voices of "The Guilt Creators" about how you shouldn't use television as a babysitter).
2.) I now prioritize what I do first. (Bathroom door is open, by the way.) Wash hair first as fast as possible, that way I can jump out of the shower fast if I need to. Then soap, and only if I'm feeling confident, do I shave. You can, of course, shave with baby oil out of the shower later if you have to. Jump out, dry off as quick as possible, get essential undergarments on as quick as possible. You are now able to move about the cabin if you must. Then, constantly assessing Lucy's attentiveness and knowing anything may get cut short, I then prioritize everything that's left into the "I could manage to do that if she's not looking" or "I'd better try to do this now" categories. Examples in column A are: cleaning ears, putting on my minimal makeup; Examples in column B are "Blowing hot air at my head in the middle of summer" (making hair minimally presentable).
3.) If I'm reeeally lucky, at the end of 15 min. I'll be clean, have dry hair, clothes on, a little bit of makeup, and then I might even be able to sit down and eat my yogurt without someone climbing up me like a cat scratch post saying, "Piece! Piece!" (which meas, "Gimme somma dat!").
4.) If I'm really, reeeeeaaally lucky, I can also unload the dishwasher! This rarely happens, however, as I generally don't get past paragraph 2.
Hope this gives you a smile. If I get around to it, I will do "grocery store skills," "bed-making skills" or "making dinner skills."
Need advice
What do I do about Lucy standing up in the grocery store cart? We haven't done much spanking yet... we're doing more of the "remove, talk, then distract" system, as that often seems to
work the best. However, I'm not against "minor pain" as my mom calls it, like a pinch on the arm... but I don't know what you do when you're out. I'm also open to recommendations of books for toddlers.
work the best. However, I'm not against "minor pain" as my mom calls it, like a pinch on the arm... but I don't know what you do when you're out. I'm also open to recommendations of books for toddlers.
Monday, September 03, 2007
Family Fun Herd
Well, despite the nasty heat and the inability of our air conditioning to really keep up with it, we are having a nice holiday weekend. We've spent much of the time in the pool, as you might guess. It's 30,000 gallons of skin coolant. =) I love actually coming in from outside and feeling cold for that one short moment.
My folks came down for the weekend, originally to help us with the yard, but the heat was jsut unbearable. My dad got up early and did a lot of work, but there's only so much you can do. They also came to babysit Lucy so Eric, Steve and I could go run a 5K. I'd decided to try the Disneyland 5K. Here's last year's race route...can't find this year's...
We had a great time, but I'll never do this run again. Too many walkers (people walking, not people with walkers), too narrow a course, too many people with jog strollers that weren't supposed to have them. We spent a good deal of the race darting from side to side and squeezing through little openings. Then they positioned all the characters at these choke points so people would stop to hug them and take pictures right when we were trying to run through a tight space. They also need to do staggered start times. It took us 8 minutes to get to the starting line, so you have no idea really what your time is. Getting out they had poorly organized where all the booths were, so getting water was an issue, too. However, despite the negative, it was a really fun time. It was fun to do a run with so much fun stuff to look at. My brother said he hadn't been to Disneyland since Grad Night!
Some little hilights... I love to run these races with Steve, because I think it's when he is most upbeat and encouraging. Whenever we come by people clapping on the sidelines, Steve gets all excited and claps and yells. He encourages me and yesterday gave high 5's to all the characters. =) Since I've been running regularly, this wasn't a hard run for me, so I enjoyed it much more than usual. Then at the end I had enough energy to spring the last 20-30 yards. There were lots of people lining the sides at the finish line, so when Steve and I took off, people started really cheering. It's a fun feeling to have a ton of people really cheer for you. =)
We celebrated by having a dinner of tri-tip (from the Central Valley... the best!) and some enormous shrimp. Oh man, oh man. To top it off I made a blueberry tart for dessert, which was just divine.
An excellent weekend, despite the melty-ness of it all.
My folks came down for the weekend, originally to help us with the yard, but the heat was jsut unbearable. My dad got up early and did a lot of work, but there's only so much you can do. They also came to babysit Lucy so Eric, Steve and I could go run a 5K. I'd decided to try the Disneyland 5K. Here's last year's race route...can't find this year's...
We had a great time, but I'll never do this run again. Too many walkers (people walking, not people with walkers), too narrow a course, too many people with jog strollers that weren't supposed to have them. We spent a good deal of the race darting from side to side and squeezing through little openings. Then they positioned all the characters at these choke points so people would stop to hug them and take pictures right when we were trying to run through a tight space. They also need to do staggered start times. It took us 8 minutes to get to the starting line, so you have no idea really what your time is. Getting out they had poorly organized where all the booths were, so getting water was an issue, too. However, despite the negative, it was a really fun time. It was fun to do a run with so much fun stuff to look at. My brother said he hadn't been to Disneyland since Grad Night!
Some little hilights... I love to run these races with Steve, because I think it's when he is most upbeat and encouraging. Whenever we come by people clapping on the sidelines, Steve gets all excited and claps and yells. He encourages me and yesterday gave high 5's to all the characters. =) Since I've been running regularly, this wasn't a hard run for me, so I enjoyed it much more than usual. Then at the end I had enough energy to spring the last 20-30 yards. There were lots of people lining the sides at the finish line, so when Steve and I took off, people started really cheering. It's a fun feeling to have a ton of people really cheer for you. =)
We celebrated by having a dinner of tri-tip (from the Central Valley... the best!) and some enormous shrimp. Oh man, oh man. To top it off I made a blueberry tart for dessert, which was just divine.
An excellent weekend, despite the melty-ness of it all.
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