Smokin'!

My credit card is on fire today!  I am just swiping it left and right.  Except that I haven't left my desk.  So I'm not really swiping it.  I'm more typing in the numbers over and over.  But you get the idea.

Mom and Dad's Christmas present?  Done.
Laura's (only) Christmas present? Done.  (Don't hate.  She's not even one.  And she has more aunts and uncles than I can count.  And she doesn't need anything.)
Nate's Christmas present?  Not quite done, but that's because we need to get our new TV(!) together.
Godson's Christmas present?  Done.
Brother's Christmas present?  Done.
Brother's-in-law Christmas present?  Not done, but I don't drew his name from the hat yesterday.

Most importantly, however, Christmas cards designed and ordered?  DONE.

You'd think that with the thousands of pictures I have taken of Laura over the last ten months, I could easily find something for our Christmas card.  Not so.  Some of the cutest pictures are months old, and you know how much babies change in a matter of minutes!  And there are very few pictures of all of us as a family.  We finally got some good pictures this weekend.  Next chore?  Choosing a company to make the cards!

I looked through Kodak Gallery.  Nothing caught my eye.  I loved almost everything on Tiny Prints, but really couldn't afford it.  Next stop, Shutterfly.  Good prices and some really cute cards!  I quickly called Nate to make sure he didn't care what the cards looked like and set to work.  I was even able to get pre-printed return address labels to match the card!  Worth every penny to not have to write those out over and over!

I went with "Oh Deer!" this year.  The cheerful colors and whimsical reindeer are so "us."  I love that I could change the written message on the card from "Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas" to something a little less Christmas-specific.  While I LOVE everything about Christmas, many of Nate's clients/friends are Jewish.  We welcome the holiday celebrations of all faiths in our house, and our cards reflect that sentiment.  Got a problem with that?!  Good.  Glad we're clear on that.

Smokin'!

My credit card is on fire today!  I am just swiping it left and right.  Except that I haven't left my desk.  So I'm not really swiping it.  I'm more typing in the numbers over and over.  But you get the idea.

Mom and Dad's Christmas present?  Done.
Laura's (only) Christmas present? Done.  (Don't hate.  She's not even one.  And she has more aunts and uncles than I can count.  And she doesn't need anything.)
Nate's Christmas present?  Not quite done, but that's because we need to get our new TV(!) together.
Godson's Christmas present?  Done.
Brother's Christmas present?  Done.
Brother's-in-law Christmas present?  Not done, but I don't drew his name from the hat yesterday.

Most importantly, however, Christmas cards designed and ordered?  DONE.

You'd think that with the thousands of pictures I have taken of Laura over the last ten months, I could easily find something for our Christmas card.  Not so.  Some of the cutest pictures are months old, and you know how much babies change in a matter of minutes!  And there are very few pictures of all of us as a family.  We finally got some good pictures this weekend.  Next chore?  Choosing a company to make the cards!

I looked through Kodak Gallery.  Nothing caught my eye.  I loved almost everything on Tiny Prints, but really couldn't afford it.  Next stop, Shutterfly.  Good prices and some really cute cards!  I quickly called Nate to make sure he didn't care what the cards looked like and set to work.  I was even able to get pre-printed return address labels to match the card!  Worth every penny to not have to write those out over and over!

I went with "Oh Deer!" this year.  The cheerful colors and whimsical reindeer are so "us."  I love that I could change the written message on the card from "Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas" to something a little less Christmas-specific.  While I LOVE everything about Christmas, many of Nate's clients/friends are Jewish.  We welcome the holiday celebrations of all faiths in our house, and our cards reflect that sentiment.  Got a problem with that?!  Good.  Glad we're clear on that.

Wherein my body hurts and I suck at Twitter

At several points over the holiday weekend I thought to myself, "I should be tweeting this.  This is insane.  I should be tweeting."

But I didn't.  Because I suck at twitter.  But here are some highlights of the weekend in non-tweeted form:

1) RV ride to Tennessee, an open-container state.  And we decided that since the open-container state was our destination, we could drink the whole way down.
2) Laura slept almost the whole way down!
3) Arrived with the sunrise Thanksgiving morning.  Hot coffee waiting for us.
4) Turkeys tossed on the smoker at 10am.
5) Family football game.  I watched from the sidelines.  I don't *DO* balls.
6) Dinner.  Three tables.  Thirty people.  Four turkeys.  One ham.
7) Nashville zoo!  Most of the animals were hiding, since it was so cold, but the Jungle Gym was worth the price of admission.
8) Pre-gaming (like college kids) before getting on a party bus into Nashville.
9) Party bus.  Lighted floor.  Revolving stripper poles.  OMG.
10) Drive-by of Opryland to see the lights - gorgeous!
11) Did I mention stripper poles?  Revolving stripper poles?
12) Bar #1: mechanical bull.  Yes.  I rode.
13) Bar #2: live music.  We danced on stage.
14) Bar #3: I'm getting tired. 
15) Back home: the babysitters have hot pizza waiting for us!  Best sitters ever!
16) OMG everything hurts.  Why are there bruises all over my legs?  What happened last night??
17) Oh yeah.  Stripper poles and mechanical bull.  Mystery solved.
18) Starting to pack up for the long ride home.
19) In-laws really beginning to grate on my nerves.
20) Crying in the bathroom.
21) Well-timed trip to Sonic for burgers and limeades.  My first ever Sonic trip!  And I have never needed a fast-food break so badly.
22) RV ready to go.  Except two in-laws refuse to stop watching a stupid football game to leave.
23) Fight ensues.
24) Laura, sister-in-law and I hide on RV
25) Remainder of family carries hold-outs onto RV.
26) RV finally on the road.
27) Arrive home at 7am.
28) I still hurt.

If I had actually been tweeting, I am sure there would have been tons more updates, in a much wittier fashion.  But since I'm exhausted and back at work, this is the best I can do.  You wouldn't believe the bruises.  But also?  That stripper pole was the best workout I have gotten in years.  I think I need one.

Wherein my body hurts and I suck at Twitter

At several points over the holiday weekend I thought to myself, "I should be tweeting this.  This is insane.  I should be tweeting."

But I didn't.  Because I suck at twitter.  But here are some highlights of the weekend in non-tweeted form:

1) RV ride to Tennessee, an open-container state.  And we decided that since the open-container state was our destination, we could drink the whole way down.
2) Laura slept almost the whole way down!
3) Arrived with the sunrise Thanksgiving morning.  Hot coffee waiting for us.
4) Turkeys tossed on the smoker at 10am.
5) Family football game.  I watched from the sidelines.  I don't *DO* balls.
6) Dinner.  Three tables.  Thirty people.  Four turkeys.  One ham.
7) Nashville zoo!  Most of the animals were hiding, since it was so cold, but the Jungle Gym was worth the price of admission.
8) Pre-gaming (like college kids) before getting on a party bus into Nashville.
9) Party bus.  Lighted floor.  Revolving stripper poles.  OMG.
10) Drive-by of Opryland to see the lights - gorgeous!
11) Did I mention stripper poles?  Revolving stripper poles?
12) Bar #1: mechanical bull.  Yes.  I rode.
13) Bar #2: live music.  We danced on stage.
14) Bar #3: I'm getting tired. 
15) Back home: the babysitters have hot pizza waiting for us!  Best sitters ever!
16) OMG everything hurts.  Why are there bruises all over my legs?  What happened last night??
17) Oh yeah.  Stripper poles and mechanical bull.  Mystery solved.
18) Starting to pack up for the long ride home.
19) In-laws really beginning to grate on my nerves.
20) Crying in the bathroom.
21) Well-timed trip to Sonic for burgers and limeades.  My first ever Sonic trip!  And I have never needed a fast-food break so badly.
22) RV ready to go.  Except two in-laws refuse to stop watching a stupid football game to leave.
23) Fight ensues.
24) Laura, sister-in-law and I hide on RV
25) Remainder of family carries hold-outs onto RV.
26) RV finally on the road.
27) Arrive home at 7am.
28) I still hurt.

If I had actually been tweeting, I am sure there would have been tons more updates, in a much wittier fashion.  But since I'm exhausted and back at work, this is the best I can do.  You wouldn't believe the bruises.  But also?  That stripper pole was the best workout I have gotten in years.  I think I need one.

I am thankful

There is so much to be thankful about, this year especially.  I have a happy, healthy baby.  A happy, healthy marriage.  A happy, healthy dog.  A happy, healthy family.  A happy, healthy work environment.  A happy, healthy group of friends. 

I have cake.  Bed.  Crispy clean sheets.  New boots.  New outside lights.  New vacuum.  Cookies. 

I have family excited to see me over Thanksgiving.  I have family who will miss me over Thanksgiving.

Despite all the "I wants" that I feel myself repeating over and over like a broken record, I have.  I have a lot.  I am thankful for all that I have.  That said, I am going to quit blogging for the remainder of the week.  I'll see everyone on Monday.

Have a happy, healthy Thanksgiving! 
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I am thankful

There is so much to be thankful about, this year especially.  I have a happy, healthy baby.  A happy, healthy marriage.  A happy, healthy dog.  A happy, healthy family.  A happy, healthy work environment.  A happy, healthy group of friends. 

I have cake.  Bed.  Crispy clean sheets.  New boots.  New outside lights.  New vacuum.  Cookies. 

I have family excited to see me over Thanksgiving.  I have family who will miss me over Thanksgiving.

Despite all the "I wants" that I feel myself repeating over and over like a broken record, I have.  I have a lot.  I am thankful for all that I have.  That said, I am going to quit blogging for the remainder of the week.  I'll see everyone on Monday.

Have a happy, healthy Thanksgiving! 
ä

SCRAMBLE!

We're leaving

In an RV!

I hope that

We get home alive.

I have been scrambling the last few nights to get ready for the 10+ hour RV ride with my in-laws tomorrow.  You heard me right!  At least 10 hours in an RV with a 10-month old and 8 in-laws.  I'm embracing the insanity and am trying to roll with it.  Unfortunately, rolling with it is not something I do very well.

To date, here are all of the things I have done to prepare:

+Bought cute outfits for Thanksgiving dinner and bar-hopping (in a freaking party bus)  Friday night

+Found a last-minute dog-sitter for Girly (when our original sitter fell through)

+Baked a pie for said dog-sitter

+Made Chex Mix and taco dip for the 10+ hour RV ride

+Packed Laura's food

+Packed Laura's toys

+Packed my clothes

+Pre-measured Girly's food for the week

Here are all the things I have yet to do:

-Pack Laura's clothes

-Pack games for the grown-ups

-Hide my marbles (so I don't lose them.  You know.  And go crazy)

-Refill the Zoloft prescription (see above)

-Deliver pie to dog-sitter and thank her (again) for filling in so last minute

-Take a deep breath and remind myself that while crazy, that RV will be filled with people who love me and each other.  And that's pretty special.

-Eat turkey.  Lots of turkey.

SCRAMBLE!

We're leaving

In an RV!

I hope that

We get home alive.

I have been scrambling the last few nights to get ready for the 10+ hour RV ride with my in-laws tomorrow.  You heard me right!  At least 10 hours in an RV with a 10-month old and 8 in-laws.  I'm embracing the insanity and am trying to roll with it.  Unfortunately, rolling with it is not something I do very well.

To date, here are all of the things I have done to prepare:

+Bought cute outfits for Thanksgiving dinner and bar-hopping (in a freaking party bus)  Friday night

+Found a last-minute dog-sitter for Girly (when our original sitter fell through)

+Baked a pie for said dog-sitter

+Made Chex Mix and taco dip for the 10+ hour RV ride

+Packed Laura's food

+Packed Laura's toys

+Packed my clothes

+Pre-measured Girly's food for the week

Here are all the things I have yet to do:

-Pack Laura's clothes

-Pack games for the grown-ups

-Hide my marbles (so I don't lose them.  You know.  And go crazy)

-Refill the Zoloft prescription (see above)

-Deliver pie to dog-sitter and thank her (again) for filling in so last minute

-Take a deep breath and remind myself that while crazy, that RV will be filled with people who love me and each other.  And that's pretty special.

-Eat turkey.  Lots of turkey.

No Disassemble!

So this is what happens when you and your dad try to find The Clog in your vacuum cleaner.  That mess of plastic and screws used to be my vacuum.  Yeah.  My dad was almost in tears, he felt so bad about "killing" the vacuum!  I think he has watched Short Circuit a few too many times...

I was ready for a new vacuum anyway.  Enter, the Bissell 3920 Pet Hair Eraser!  I can't wait to see this baby suck up all of Girly's mounds of fur!  There's even an attachment for vacuuming your dog.  I think Girly will crap her imaginary pants when she sees that thing coming at her.  It's gonna be awesome.

No Disassemble!

So this is what happens when you and your dad try to find The Clog in your vacuum cleaner.  That mess of plastic and screws used to be my vacuum.  Yeah.  My dad was almost in tears, he felt so bad about "killing" the vacuum!  I think he has watched Short Circuit a few too many times...

I was ready for a new vacuum anyway.  Enter, the Bissell 3920 Pet Hair Eraser!  I can't wait to see this baby suck up all of Girly's mounds of fur!  There's even an attachment for vacuuming your dog.  I think Girly will crap her imaginary pants when she sees that thing coming at her.  It's gonna be awesome.

Honey-Do Lists

Or rather, Daddy-Do Lists, in my case!

Nate is just not all that handy.  In fact, I think it's hereditary.  Whenever Nate's dad offers to help out with something, I cringe wondering how awful the end result will be.  So I am frankly a little relieved that Nate doesn't try to fix things up around the house.  It's just safer that way. 

But we live in an older house that sometimes needs help.  Here's where my dad comes in.  My dad is incredibly super handy.  I have never seen him take on a challenge that he couldn't master.  Tiling?  He bought a diamond saw.  Back deck?  He is the master of the deck.  You name it, he can fix it!

Which is why my dad is spending his precious weekend at my house, fixing light fixtures, caulking stairs, and refinishing cabinets.  And the best part is he's happy to do it!  I have the best dad ever. 

EVER.

Honey-Do Lists

Or rather, Daddy-Do Lists, in my case!

Nate is just not all that handy.  In fact, I think it's hereditary.  Whenever Nate's dad offers to help out with something, I cringe wondering how awful the end result will be.  So I am frankly a little relieved that Nate doesn't try to fix things up around the house.  It's just safer that way. 

But we live in an older house that sometimes needs help.  Here's where my dad comes in.  My dad is incredibly super handy.  I have never seen him take on a challenge that he couldn't master.  Tiling?  He bought a diamond saw.  Back deck?  He is the master of the deck.  You name it, he can fix it!

Which is why my dad is spending his precious weekend at my house, fixing light fixtures, caulking stairs, and refinishing cabinets.  And the best part is he's happy to do it!  I have the best dad ever. 

EVER.

Sexting

Nate is away on business all week, at some sort of training something or other.  He's with 96 other agents.  I'm assuming most of them are men, since his field is mostly men.  He texted me the other night:

So all the guys r getting sexy pics from their girls.  Whatcha got?

Well, I've been feeling all sorts of NOT sexy lately.  My stomach is gross and all that.  AND I'm not about to go emailing sexy pictures of myself all over the place for strangers to ogle.  But I also don't want Nate to feel left out at his sleepaway camp training.

So I quickly threw on a pair of fancy tights and some heels and took this picture:

Nate: Love the picture. Thanks!!
Me: I know how to make my man happy :)
Nate: U do indeed.  My girl has the best legs!!!

And that is how I roll.

Sexting

Nate is away on business all week, at some sort of training something or other.  He's with 96 other agents.  I'm assuming most of them are men, since his field is mostly men.  He texted me the other night:

So all the guys r getting sexy pics from their girls.  Whatcha got?

Well, I've been feeling all sorts of NOT sexy lately.  My stomach is gross and all that.  AND I'm not about to go emailing sexy pictures of myself all over the place for strangers to ogle.  But I also don't want Nate to feel left out at his sleepaway camp training.

So I quickly threw on a pair of fancy tights and some heels and took this picture:

Nate: Love the picture. Thanks!!
Me: I know how to make my man happy :)
Nate: U do indeed.  My girl has the best legs!!!

And that is how I roll.

No post today

And I know you'll miss me...
But I'm off having fun with Laura and my mom!

No post today

And I know you'll miss me...
But I'm off having fun with Laura and my mom!

Holy Tornado Batman!

You may have heard about the CRAZY storm that swept Maryland last night.  Thankfully, I am not in the area that was hit the hardest.  But what a storm!

I was awoken around 1:15 by rain slamming against the windows, and Riesling whining and crying downstairs.  She's not normally afraid of storms, but this storm was not your normal storm.  She started to do her whisper bark thing, and I was afraid she'd start actually barking and wake Laura, so I let her upstairs.  She jumped right up on the bed and snuggled in.

Ten minutes later, as the wind begins to shake the house, Laura starts crying.  I let her cry for a few minutes to see if she'd go back to sleep.  But I caved.  I figured I already had one scaredy-cat in bed with me, why not two? 

So instead of enjoying the whole bed all to myself while Nate is out of town, I spent the wee hours of this morning listening to baby snores and doggy snores.  I'm a little tired this morning, and a little worried that Laura will think that 1am snuggles are legit.  But I love a good storm, and I do love a good snuggle.  All in all?  Last night was pretty great.

Holy Tornado Batman!

You may have heard about the CRAZY storm that swept Maryland last night.  Thankfully, I am not in the area that was hit the hardest.  But what a storm!

I was awoken around 1:15 by rain slamming against the windows, and Riesling whining and crying downstairs.  She's not normally afraid of storms, but this storm was not your normal storm.  She started to do her whisper bark thing, and I was afraid she'd start actually barking and wake Laura, so I let her upstairs.  She jumped right up on the bed and snuggled in.

Ten minutes later, as the wind begins to shake the house, Laura starts crying.  I let her cry for a few minutes to see if she'd go back to sleep.  But I caved.  I figured I already had one scaredy-cat in bed with me, why not two? 

So instead of enjoying the whole bed all to myself while Nate is out of town, I spent the wee hours of this morning listening to baby snores and doggy snores.  I'm a little tired this morning, and a little worried that Laura will think that 1am snuggles are legit.  But I love a good storm, and I do love a good snuggle.  All in all?  Last night was pretty great.

Another rainy day

There are times where rainy days are welcome and lovely.  I think these are mostly in the spring, when the sun is shining through the raindrops.  When there are rainbows and warm breezes.  When bunnies and wood nymphs frolic through the cheerful mists.

There are times when rainy days are welcome and lovely.  November is not one of those times.  It's raining out there.  It's cold and dark.  As if the days weren't cold and dark enough without the rain.  So I'm a little cranky today.

Nate left for a week-long business trip this morning.  Even Laura seemed to know something was up.  She cried all morning, and refused to be put down.  I had to sneak out of her classroom after I took her to day care this morning.  It's like the whole world is crying.

Another rainy day

There are times where rainy days are welcome and lovely.  I think these are mostly in the spring, when the sun is shining through the raindrops.  When there are rainbows and warm breezes.  When bunnies and wood nymphs frolic through the cheerful mists.

There are times when rainy days are welcome and lovely.  November is not one of those times.  It's raining out there.  It's cold and dark.  As if the days weren't cold and dark enough without the rain.  So I'm a little cranky today.

Nate left for a week-long business trip this morning.  Even Laura seemed to know something was up.  She cried all morning, and refused to be put down.  I had to sneak out of her classroom after I took her to day care this morning.  It's like the whole world is crying.

The Light of My Life

I mentioned yesterday that I hate what I have written in the "About Us" section on that little bar above.  In it, I say, "Laura is the light of my life!"  I read this one sentence and cringe.  What a sappy, un-me thing to say.  I would never say something like that in real life.  So why is something so stupid on my blog?  Today, I'm here to change that. 

The months following Laura's birth were a dark time for me.  I wanted to look at my daughter and feel my heart swell with love.  I wanted to just smile as I watched her sleep.  I wanted her to be the light of my life.  But my heart didn't swell; I didn't smile as she slept; Laura wasn't the light of my life. 

I was a sailor lost at sea, desperately searching the horizon for a lighthouse that wasn't there.

Maybe I set myself up for failure in those first few months.  Maybe as an expectant mother, still pregnant, I spent too much time imagining some perfect relationship with my daughter.  A relationship that could never be realistic. 

As I realized that my imagined relationship wasn't realistic, the seas of discontent rose around me.  Waves of anguish, remorse, disappointment tossed me about.  However, between every wave there is a welcomed lull.  In these breaks from the thrashing of emotions, I was able to see a glimmer of light from the shore.  Happiness.  After months of darkness, the storm began to let up.  With the help from counseling and family, I had longer periods of rest between waves.  The horizon grew brighter.  I could see the shore.

Now, my relationship with Laura is just how I imagined all those months ago.  When I look at her, my heart swells.  I smile and sigh as I watch her soft cheek rest against her blankie as she sleeps.  Laura is a light in my life. 

But Laura is not the only light in my life.  I spent months lost at sea looking for one lighthouse.  But in all those months, I overlooked all the stars shining above me.  Nate.  Riesling.  My mom.  My dad.  My sister. My brothers.   Nate's family.  My friends.  And yes, Laura. 

I wasn't lost in the darkness after all.  I was surrounded by love and light.  Only now, I can actually see it.

The Light of My Life

I mentioned yesterday that I hate what I have written in the "About Us" section on that little bar above.  In it, I say, "Laura is the light of my life!"  I read this one sentence and cringe.  What a sappy, un-me thing to say.  I would never say something like that in real life.  So why is something so stupid on my blog?  Today, I'm here to change that. 

The months following Laura's birth were a dark time for me.  I wanted to look at my daughter and feel my heart swell with love.  I wanted to just smile as I watched her sleep.  I wanted her to be the light of my life.  But my heart didn't swell; I didn't smile as she slept; Laura wasn't the light of my life. 

I was a sailor lost at sea, desperately searching the horizon for a lighthouse that wasn't there.

Maybe I set myself up for failure in those first few months.  Maybe as an expectant mother, still pregnant, I spent too much time imagining some perfect relationship with my daughter.  A relationship that could never be realistic. 

As I realized that my imagined relationship wasn't realistic, the seas of discontent rose around me.  Waves of anguish, remorse, disappointment tossed me about.  However, between every wave there is a welcomed lull.  In these breaks from the thrashing of emotions, I was able to see a glimmer of light from the shore.  Happiness.  After months of darkness, the storm began to let up.  With the help from counseling and family, I had longer periods of rest between waves.  The horizon grew brighter.  I could see the shore.

Now, my relationship with Laura is just how I imagined all those months ago.  When I look at her, my heart swells.  I smile and sigh as I watch her soft cheek rest against her blankie as she sleeps.  Laura is a light in my life. 

But Laura is not the only light in my life.  I spent months lost at sea looking for one lighthouse.  But in all those months, I overlooked all the stars shining above me.  Nate.  Riesling.  My mom.  My dad.  My sister. My brothers.   Nate's family.  My friends.  And yes, Laura. 

I wasn't lost in the darkness after all.  I was surrounded by love and light.  Only now, I can actually see it.

Saturday Blogging

Ok.  It's really hard to blog on Saturdays, my friends.  Because on Saturdays, I am often out and about doing fun things with friends.  Like yesterday, one of my bestie best friends came down from NYC for a visit.  And who wants to blog when bestie best friends are visiting?  So sorry.  I dropped you guys like a hot potato.

However.  I do have some things I want to talk about.  See that "About Us" tab above this post?  Right up there?  Under my header?  After you read this, please click on it.  Yep.  Do it.  Because clicking that button will allow you to read the biggest lie I have ever written.  I reread it on Friday and was horrified by how stupidly fake I sound.  Whatever is written there is not me.

So tomorrow, I am going to write something a little more honest.  Tomorrow, because I hate typing the laptop I have at home.  Give me a real mouse and a full-size keyboard any day.

Saturday Blogging

Ok.  It's really hard to blog on Saturdays, my friends.  Because on Saturdays, I am often out and about doing fun things with friends.  Like yesterday, one of my bestie best friends came down from NYC for a visit.  And who wants to blog when bestie best friends are visiting?  So sorry.  I dropped you guys like a hot potato.

However.  I do have some things I want to talk about.  See that "About Us" tab above this post?  Right up there?  Under my header?  After you read this, please click on it.  Yep.  Do it.  Because clicking that button will allow you to read the biggest lie I have ever written.  I reread it on Friday and was horrified by how stupidly fake I sound.  Whatever is written there is not me.

So tomorrow, I am going to write something a little more honest.  Tomorrow, because I hate typing the laptop I have at home.  Give me a real mouse and a full-size keyboard any day.

The Lighthouse

This a beautiful image, isn't it?  Even without the word "Hope" printed in gold lettering across the top, the image screams blessed anticipation.  A women - a muse, perhaps - holding the bold torch of enlightenment, leaning on her solid anchor.  This woman is a lighthouse.  A haven of safety for the brave sailors out at sea.

I grew up a short walk from a lighthouse.  A beautiful, old lighthouse, whose beacon continues to flash its double-blink as a warning for fishermen dodging the ever-shifting sand bars.  My family would visit the lighthouse together a few evenings every summer.  We would park our car and stand out at the balcony looking out at the water, the lighthouse behind us.  We would wait, looking out at the dark ocean until - at last! - the lighthouse would flash once and then twice, lighting up the water.  Those brief moments of light filled me with hope.

This post was written as part of the Red Writing Hood challenge at The Red Dress Club.  

The Lighthouse

This a beautiful image, isn't it?  Even without the word "Hope" printed in gold lettering across the top, the image screams blessed anticipation.  A women - a muse, perhaps - holding the bold torch of enlightenment, leaning on her solid anchor.  This woman is a lighthouse.  A haven of safety for the brave sailors out at sea.

I grew up a short walk from a lighthouse.  A beautiful, old lighthouse, whose beacon continues to flash its double-blink as a warning for fishermen dodging the ever-shifting sand bars.  My family would visit the lighthouse together a few evenings every summer.  We would park our car and stand out at the balcony looking out at the water, the lighthouse behind us.  We would wait, looking out at the dark ocean until - at last! - the lighthouse would flash once and then twice, lighting up the water.  Those brief moments of light filled me with hope.

This post was written as part of the Red Writing Hood challenge at The Red Dress Club.  

Purple Mountains Majesty

Why today makes me happy: 
1) It's a gorgeous day and we are free
2) I'm at work, remembering our heroic veterans
3) No one else is at work, since it is a Federal holiday
4) My cubemates are no where near me
5) It's a day devoted to remembering those who have served:
Grandpa, Grampy, Uncle Roy, Uncle Bud, Uncle Vin, Uncle Bob, and to all our other brave soldiers!

So as I sit at work today, enjoying silence in the cubicle jungle, I am even more able to reflect on our veterans.  I can also bask in the glory of the phenomenal parking space I got at the train station this morning!  Woohoo!

Does this post make me seem shallow?  I hope not.  Because I was truly close with my Uncle Bud, who stormed the beaches at Normandy and never quite recovered.  I'm just celebrating his sacrifice in my own little way.

Purple Mountains Majesty

Why today makes me happy: 
1) It's a gorgeous day and we are free
2) I'm at work, remembering our heroic veterans
3) No one else is at work, since it is a Federal holiday
4) My cubemates are no where near me
5) It's a day devoted to remembering those who have served:
Grandpa, Grampy, Uncle Roy, Uncle Bud, Uncle Vin, Uncle Bob, and to all our other brave soldiers!

So as I sit at work today, enjoying silence in the cubicle jungle, I am even more able to reflect on our veterans.  I can also bask in the glory of the phenomenal parking space I got at the train station this morning!  Woohoo!

Does this post make me seem shallow?  I hope not.  Because I was truly close with my Uncle Bud, who stormed the beaches at Normandy and never quite recovered.  I'm just celebrating his sacrifice in my own little way.

Hrumph.

My tummy hurts and I'm cranky.  So you really don't want me to post today.  This quick status brought to you by NaBloPoMo, wherein I'm supposed to write one blog post a day for the entire month of November.  And since I'm supposed to be a Dangerous Blogger?  I'll also let you know that the dry spell Chez MidAtlantic continues.

Hrumph.

My tummy hurts and I'm cranky.  So you really don't want me to post today.  This quick status brought to you by NaBloPoMo, wherein I'm supposed to write one blog post a day for the entire month of November.  And since I'm supposed to be a Dangerous Blogger?  I'll also let you know that the dry spell Chez MidAtlantic continues.

Static Cling

Laura has been super clingy lately.  She sticks to me like glue.  If I'm not already holding her, she reaches for me until I pick her up.  Laura will be playing all nicely on the floor; as soon as she sees me?  Bam.  She's crying and reaching.  Does she do this with Hubby?  Nope.  Daddy is fun and Mommy is for whines and hugs.

Meanwhile, I have been clingy with Hubby in my own right.  I nuzzle up to him on the couch.  I go out of my way for snuggles.  I reach for him.  And yet, Hubby has not picked up on my subtle clues.  I'm horny dammit!  I have needs!  I was less than subtle this evening.  No dice.  But if this streak keeps up, I might explode. 

Was this post dangerous?  Was it too much information?  Good.  Because I am a Dangerous Blogger!  NaBloPoMo, baby!

Static Cling

Laura has been super clingy lately.  She sticks to me like glue.  If I'm not already holding her, she reaches for me until I pick her up.  Laura will be playing all nicely on the floor; as soon as she sees me?  Bam.  She's crying and reaching.  Does she do this with Hubby?  Nope.  Daddy is fun and Mommy is for whines and hugs.

Meanwhile, I have been clingy with Hubby in my own right.  I nuzzle up to him on the couch.  I go out of my way for snuggles.  I reach for him.  And yet, Hubby has not picked up on my subtle clues.  I'm horny dammit!  I have needs!  I was less than subtle this evening.  No dice.  But if this streak keeps up, I might explode. 

Was this post dangerous?  Was it too much information?  Good.  Because I am a Dangerous Blogger!  NaBloPoMo, baby!

Dream Baby, Dream

Ok, so I have finished my breakfast and now I can tell you my dream.

Last night?  I dreamt I was pregnant.

I went to the doctor because my periods have been weird (that's actually true), and she had me take your "standard" pregnancy test.  Except that because this was a dream, the test was all wonky and weird.  It was a sheet of paper - like 8.5x11 - and I had to unfold certain parts.  Then I had to make sure I got pee across this long strip at the center of the paper.  Once the pee had been successfully applied (NOT an easy task, even in my dream), the paper started to change colors.

Now, I thought I had read the very complicated instructions on this weird pregnancy test pretty carefully.  I thought I had read that orange meant not pregnant, and green was pregnant.  The first test I took came out purple.  Obviously, I did not distribute my pee correctly.  So the doctor gave me another one.  This time, I peed and it immediately turned orange.  I nonchalantly brushed my bright orange paper away as I buttoned my pants and washed my hands.  I took it back to the waiting room where my mom was sitting with Hubby and Laura.  "Not pregnant," I told them.  And I surprised myself by starting to feel a little disappointed.

And then something on the paper caught my eye.  Wait, what does orange mean?  I reread the complicated instructions.  WAIT.  Oranges means I am pregnant?!  What?!  HUBBY!!  PREGNANT!!!

And then I woke up.  I was surprised as my dream self by how much I actually wanted to be pregnant.  And I am still surprised by my waking self by how much I would actually love that dream to be true.  Hubby and I are planners, and we do have a plan for Baby #2, but I find myself almost hoping to speed things along.  May will be here in no time, right?

Dream Baby, Dream

Ok, so I have finished my breakfast and now I can tell you my dream.

Last night?  I dreamt I was pregnant.

I went to the doctor because my periods have been weird (that's actually true), and she had me take your "standard" pregnancy test.  Except that because this was a dream, the test was all wonky and weird.  It was a sheet of paper - like 8.5x11 - and I had to unfold certain parts.  Then I had to make sure I got pee across this long strip at the center of the paper.  Once the pee had been successfully applied (NOT an easy task, even in my dream), the paper started to change colors.

Now, I thought I had read the very complicated instructions on this weird pregnancy test pretty carefully.  I thought I had read that orange meant not pregnant, and green was pregnant.  The first test I took came out purple.  Obviously, I did not distribute my pee correctly.  So the doctor gave me another one.  This time, I peed and it immediately turned orange.  I nonchalantly brushed my bright orange paper away as I buttoned my pants and washed my hands.  I took it back to the waiting room where my mom was sitting with Hubby and Laura.  "Not pregnant," I told them.  And I surprised myself by starting to feel a little disappointed.

And then something on the paper caught my eye.  Wait, what does orange mean?  I reread the complicated instructions.  WAIT.  Oranges means I am pregnant?!  What?!  HUBBY!!  PREGNANT!!!

And then I woke up.  I was surprised as my dream self by how much I actually wanted to be pregnant.  And I am still surprised by my waking self by how much I would actually love that dream to be true.  Hubby and I are planners, and we do have a plan for Baby #2, but I find myself almost hoping to speed things along.  May will be here in no time, right?

When Cute Attacks

Because OMG - how could I not share this with you?!

Laura's first sleepover.  She's already sleeping with older men!

When Cute Attacks

Because OMG - how could I not share this with you?!

Laura's first sleepover.  She's already sleeping with older men!

Blame it on the a-a-a-alcohol

Blame it on the wine, blame it on the amaretto

Blame it on the PBR, got me feeling mime-y...

Blame it on the a-a-alcohol

Blame it on the a-a-alcohol

(with apologies to Jamie Foxx!)

Yup.  That's me and a friend.  Doing a mime routine.  That was somehow aimed at keeping 30 people partying hard from waking two babies in a pack-n-play upstairs.  I had a lot of fun Saturday night, if you were still wondering.

Hubby thought I was nuts.  He's right.  I am.  But next time you need party entertainment, just call me up, mix me a few drinks, and you've got yourself a mime!

Blame it on the a-a-a-alcohol

Blame it on the wine, blame it on the amaretto

Blame it on the PBR, got me feeling mime-y...

Blame it on the a-a-alcohol

Blame it on the a-a-alcohol

(with apologies to Jamie Foxx!)

Yup.  That's me and a friend.  Doing a mime routine.  That was somehow aimed at keeping 30 people partying hard from waking two babies in a pack-n-play upstairs.  I had a lot of fun Saturday night, if you were still wondering.

Hubby thought I was nuts.  He's right.  I am.  But next time you need party entertainment, just call me up, mix me a few drinks, and you've got yourself a mime!

Ok, ok... I was supposed to blog every day this weekend for NaBloPoMo. I blame mimes for keeping me away. No, seriously!

Ok, ok... I was supposed to blog every day this weekend for NaBloPoMo. I blame mimes for keeping me away. No, seriously!

NaBloPoMo

Happy National Blog Posting Month!

I had no idea this was an actual thing until this morning, when I read about it on Kit's blog, Blogging Dangerously, which is definitely one of my favorite blogs.  Kit's posts crack me up - and I get so excited when she picks a comment from little old me to feature in her Dangerous Letters weekly wrap-up!  It's a great feature on a great blog.

So anyway, back to NaBloPoMo.  Kit started her own little group over at the central website, with the tagline, "Do you blog about things that you'd be horrified if your "Real life" ever found out about? If so, join us and we chronicle our lives (and theirs) in ways they can't even imagine!"

Um, yes.  I do.  So obviously, I joined this group as soon as I could!  Which means I am participating in NaBloPoMo.  And you should too.  Because I want to read all of your juicy blog posts.  And since this is supposed to be a juicy post (and it's not so far)?  I'll give you a funny little story from this morning.

Once upon this morning, Hubby rolled over and started making some "Ooh baby" moves to get me interested.  [Sidenote: I am NEVER interested in the morning.  Because it's the morning.] I grumbled and shoved him away.  He was persistent.  So was I.  So then Hubby defied the laws of physics.  Hubby somehow managed to hurl his body over mine, landing on my other side.  I was already sleeping on the very edge of the bed.  I am not sure how he managed to land ON the bed, and not the floor four feet below.  I guess he thought that if he snuggled me from the other side everything would be different and I'd be interested.

He thought wrong.  The end.

NaBloPoMo

Happy National Blog Posting Month!

I had no idea this was an actual thing until this morning, when I read about it on Kit's blog, Blogging Dangerously, which is definitely one of my favorite blogs.  Kit's posts crack me up - and I get so excited when she picks a comment from little old me to feature in her Dangerous Letters weekly wrap-up!  It's a great feature on a great blog.

So anyway, back to NaBloPoMo.  Kit started her own little group over at the central website, with the tagline, "Do you blog about things that you'd be horrified if your "Real life" ever found out about? If so, join us and we chronicle our lives (and theirs) in ways they can't even imagine!"

Um, yes.  I do.  So obviously, I joined this group as soon as I could!  Which means I am participating in NaBloPoMo.  And you should too.  Because I want to read all of your juicy blog posts.  And since this is supposed to be a juicy post (and it's not so far)?  I'll give you a funny little story from this morning.

Once upon this morning, Hubby rolled over and started making some "Ooh baby" moves to get me interested.  [Sidenote: I am NEVER interested in the morning.  Because it's the morning.] I grumbled and shoved him away.  He was persistent.  So was I.  So then Hubby defied the laws of physics.  Hubby somehow managed to hurl his body over mine, landing on my other side.  I was already sleeping on the very edge of the bed.  I am not sure how he managed to land ON the bed, and not the floor four feet below.  I guess he thought that if he snuggled me from the other side everything would be different and I'd be interested.

He thought wrong.  The end.

Driving Miss Daisy

Or Miss Laura, in this case.  And actually, I have never seen "Driving Miss Daisy," so I have no idea if it's appropriate to say I'm driving Miss Laura all around.  Appropriate?  Not appropriate?  Maybe I should watch the movie.

Regardless, Laura spends a lot of time in the car.  She's currently sporting the Graco Snug Ride.  But that little coupe has a weight limit of 22 pounds - which we are fast approaching.  Also?  She screams bloody murder at the mere sight of her sweet ride.  So it's time to look for a new model.

That fits in a Honda Civic and an Acura TSX.  In other words, a slim profile for two small cars.

And you know what else?  Car seats are expensive.  Like really expensive.  So I want to choose wisely.  I'm looking at the options Britax has to offer, but PLEASE!  Send your suggestions, reviews, and criticisms!!  I need help, and I'm open to suggestions!!!

Driving Miss Daisy

Or Miss Laura, in this case.  And actually, I have never seen "Driving Miss Daisy," so I have no idea if it's appropriate to say I'm driving Miss Laura all around.  Appropriate?  Not appropriate?  Maybe I should watch the movie.

Regardless, Laura spends a lot of time in the car.  She's currently sporting the Graco Snug Ride.  But that little coupe has a weight limit of 22 pounds - which we are fast approaching.  Also?  She screams bloody murder at the mere sight of her sweet ride.  So it's time to look for a new model.

That fits in a Honda Civic and an Acura TSX.  In other words, a slim profile for two small cars.

And you know what else?  Car seats are expensive.  Like really expensive.  So I want to choose wisely.  I'm looking at the options Britax has to offer, but PLEASE!  Send your suggestions, reviews, and criticisms!!  I need help, and I'm open to suggestions!!!

It's a love-hate thing

I knew a guy in high school who referred to Starbucks as "Starf*cks."  Back then, I was a little horrified at his use of the F word in describing such a yummy place.  But lately, that nickname seems fairly appropriate.

Imagine at table with two columns.  One is labeled "Love" and the other "Hate."  This table would fairly accurately described my feelings about a certain over-priced coffee establishment who shall remain nameless.  Or not.

Let's take a look at the Love column:

+ Yummy drinks!

+ A personal challenge with the other customers to see who can have the longest drink name!

+ Seasonal lattes!

+ The word "latte!"  Seriously, just say it.  Feel the word "latte" roll off your tongue.  It's yummy just to say!

+ The holiday cups are back!

+ They are everywhere!  Including one location that is steps away from my train platform, and a mere yards away from my office.  Can't beat convenience.

+ Somehow, they make these fancy drinks better than anyone else.  Seriously, try a latte from Au Bon Pain.  It won't even be as fun to order.

Ok.  Now a look at the Hate column:

- Long lines.  Because everyone and their mother wants to spend $5 on ONE drink.

- Ridiculous prices.  Because everyone and their mother wants to spend $5 on ONE drink.

- Fat content.  I've been really good about getting the skinny lattes (still love that word), but even then I don't need any of the calories!

- High rate of staff turnover.  Just when I feel like the operations at my particular location are going smoothly, a new barista comes to town and messes everything up.

- The quality of a drink relies solely on the ability of the barista.  And all baristas were not created equal.  So you spend $5 on ONE drink, and cross your fingers that the person behind the counter is as enamored with the word "latte" as you are.  LAAAAHH-TAY.  Mmm...

My decaf grande soy caramel macchiato this morning was an utter disappointment, to say the least.  And I had such high hopes!  The line wasn't as ridiculous as usual this morning and the holiday cups were out!  My plan of going to a less expensive place for a cup of tea flew out the window.  I couldn't resist.  I got up, ordered, paid, and stood to the right to await my drink.  I waited, and waited, and waited some more.  Finally!  My drink!  I take a sip, waiting for that ahhhhh smile moment.  And it never comes. 

Instead, my poor, innocent tongue is met with an acrid, bitter taste.  Burnt coffee, no caramel syrup.  Just yuckiness.  So I turned and asked for a re-do.  I wait and wait and wait some more.  The new drink is up.  I take a sip, hoping for some semblance of drinkability.  And am utterly disappointed again.  And I've already complained on the company's website a few times.

So maybe it's time for me to find another morning beverage option.  Will I go back to Starf*cks?  Of course.  The place has the ability to make me happy (see the "Love" column).  I'll just wave a temporary goodbye to the gingerbread lattes while my taste buds recover. 

It's a love-hate thing

I knew a guy in high school who referred to Starbucks as "Starf*cks."  Back then, I was a little horrified at his use of the F word in describing such a yummy place.  But lately, that nickname seems fairly appropriate.

Imagine at table with two columns.  One is labeled "Love" and the other "Hate."  This table would fairly accurately described my feelings about a certain over-priced coffee establishment who shall remain nameless.  Or not.

Let's take a look at the Love column:

+ Yummy drinks!

+ A personal challenge with the other customers to see who can have the longest drink name!

+ Seasonal lattes!

+ The word "latte!"  Seriously, just say it.  Feel the word "latte" roll off your tongue.  It's yummy just to say!

+ The holiday cups are back!

+ They are everywhere!  Including one location that is steps away from my train platform, and a mere yards away from my office.  Can't beat convenience.

+ Somehow, they make these fancy drinks better than anyone else.  Seriously, try a latte from Au Bon Pain.  It won't even be as fun to order.

Ok.  Now a look at the Hate column:

- Long lines.  Because everyone and their mother wants to spend $5 on ONE drink.

- Ridiculous prices.  Because everyone and their mother wants to spend $5 on ONE drink.

- Fat content.  I've been really good about getting the skinny lattes (still love that word), but even then I don't need any of the calories!

- High rate of staff turnover.  Just when I feel like the operations at my particular location are going smoothly, a new barista comes to town and messes everything up.

- The quality of a drink relies solely on the ability of the barista.  And all baristas were not created equal.  So you spend $5 on ONE drink, and cross your fingers that the person behind the counter is as enamored with the word "latte" as you are.  LAAAAHH-TAY.  Mmm...

My decaf grande soy caramel macchiato this morning was an utter disappointment, to say the least.  And I had such high hopes!  The line wasn't as ridiculous as usual this morning and the holiday cups were out!  My plan of going to a less expensive place for a cup of tea flew out the window.  I couldn't resist.  I got up, ordered, paid, and stood to the right to await my drink.  I waited, and waited, and waited some more.  Finally!  My drink!  I take a sip, waiting for that ahhhhh smile moment.  And it never comes. 

Instead, my poor, innocent tongue is met with an acrid, bitter taste.  Burnt coffee, no caramel syrup.  Just yuckiness.  So I turned and asked for a re-do.  I wait and wait and wait some more.  The new drink is up.  I take a sip, hoping for some semblance of drinkability.  And am utterly disappointed again.  And I've already complained on the company's website a few times.

So maybe it's time for me to find another morning beverage option.  Will I go back to Starf*cks?  Of course.  The place has the ability to make me happy (see the "Love" column).  I'll just wave a temporary goodbye to the gingerbread lattes while my taste buds recover. 

Happy Halloween!

Grr!!!  Hobbes went on a rampage and ate Calvin!  Oh no!

Laura was a fearsome (and adorable!) tiger for her 1st Halloween this year.  She actually really enjoyed wearing her costume, so we had it on her pretty much all weekend.  We loved cuddling the soft fur, with our little tiger cub inside.  Girly (the dog) wasn't quite sure what to make of it all, so she mostly just tried her best to ignore the stuffed animal crawling around the floor.

Happy Halloween!

Grr!!!  Hobbes went on a rampage and ate Calvin!  Oh no!

Laura was a fearsome (and adorable!) tiger for her 1st Halloween this year.  She actually really enjoyed wearing her costume, so we had it on her pretty much all weekend.  We loved cuddling the soft fur, with our little tiger cub inside.  Girly (the dog) wasn't quite sure what to make of it all, so she mostly just tried her best to ignore the stuffed animal crawling around the floor.