I spent last week getting over the plague. It was a slow recovery, but here I am! Alive! I can breath through my nose, and I can hear through my ears. Life's pretty good. But you know how sometimes you just need an ego boost more than anything else in the whole world? I needed that last week - and justice prevailed. I was complimented! Three times!
On Saturday, I clicked over to one of my favorite blogs the other day, to see that Sally had posted a list of some of her bloggy favorites. I clicked the link, thinking maybe I'd find a good read. Imagine my surprise when I got to the M's and saw:
Mid-Atlantic Mommy: This blog just makes me smile. Adorable pictures, great writing. She’s funny, witty, and charming.
WHA?! That's MY blog! Someone thinks I'm witty and charming! I make Sally smile! Thank you, Sally! I love reading your blog. I think you are a wonderful person (even though we've never met and so far I'm terrible at being e-friends with anyone). I am SO flattered to be on your blog roll! WOW!
So on Thursday, I happened to be wearing a tighter, low-ish cut shirt. It was hot pink, and I felt cute. My coworker (who happens to be one of my bestest friends) looked over at me at one point in the day and said, "Hey! Is that a new shirt? You don't look as bad in it as before!"
Um. What?! I don't look as bad in it? AS BAD? It's a good thing she's one of my besties, right? Because you don't tell a new mom that she's not looking as bad. Fortunately, after I scooped my jaw off the floor, all I could do was laugh. This woman has been going to the gym with me religiously for the last two months. She's the one who bullied me into joining the gym in the first place. She was trying to compliment me on the visual effects of my recent weight loss efforts. What she meant to say was "Hey! Is that a new shirt? You look great!" That's how I took it, as I walked over to give her a jovial hug.
And when I got home from work that night, still wearing a tight, low-ish cut, hot pink shirt, Hubby reiterated the compliment. He didn't even say hello. He just grabbed for my chest and started kissing. If that's not a compliment, I don't know what it.
Combined, the two compliments on Thursday are what got me out of bed at 5:45 the next morning to get to the gym for the first time in two weeks. I had skipped the gym while recovering from the plague. I was worried that I wouldn't go back. It's so easy to fall off that wagon. But I did go back. And I'm going back again tomorrow. I'm back on the gym wagon! And hearing such wonderful praise from Sally on Saturday? I am on cloud nine.
Compliments feel real good.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Thank You!
I spent last week getting over the plague. It was a slow recovery, but here I am! Alive! I can breath through my nose, and I can hear through my ears. Life's pretty good. But you know how sometimes you just need an ego boost more than anything else in the whole world? I needed that last week - and justice prevailed. I was complimented! Three times!
On Saturday, I clicked over to one of my favorite blogs the other day, to see that Sally had posted a list of some of her bloggy favorites. I clicked the link, thinking maybe I'd find a good read. Imagine my surprise when I got to the M's and saw:
Mid-Atlantic Mommy: This blog just makes me smile. Adorable pictures, great writing. She’s funny, witty, and charming.
WHA?! That's MY blog! Someone thinks I'm witty and charming! I make Sally smile! Thank you, Sally! I love reading your blog. I think you are a wonderful person (even though we've never met and so far I'm terrible at being e-friends with anyone). I am SO flattered to be on your blog roll! WOW!
So on Thursday, I happened to be wearing a tighter, low-ish cut shirt. It was hot pink, and I felt cute. My coworker (who happens to be one of my bestest friends) looked over at me at one point in the day and said, "Hey! Is that a new shirt? You don't look as bad in it as before!"
Um. What?! I don't look as bad in it? AS BAD? It's a good thing she's one of my besties, right? Because you don't tell a new mom that she's not looking as bad. Fortunately, after I scooped my jaw off the floor, all I could do was laugh. This woman has been going to the gym with me religiously for the last two months. She's the one who bullied me into joining the gym in the first place. She was trying to compliment me on the visual effects of my recent weight loss efforts. What she meant to say was "Hey! Is that a new shirt? You look great!" That's how I took it, as I walked over to give her a jovial hug.
And when I got home from work that night, still wearing a tight, low-ish cut, hot pink shirt, Hubby reiterated the compliment. He didn't even say hello. He just grabbed for my chest and started kissing. If that's not a compliment, I don't know what it.
Combined, the two compliments on Thursday are what got me out of bed at 5:45 the next morning to get to the gym for the first time in two weeks. I had skipped the gym while recovering from the plague. I was worried that I wouldn't go back. It's so easy to fall off that wagon. But I did go back. And I'm going back again tomorrow. I'm back on the gym wagon! And hearing such wonderful praise from Sally on Saturday? I am on cloud nine.
Compliments feel real good.
On Saturday, I clicked over to one of my favorite blogs the other day, to see that Sally had posted a list of some of her bloggy favorites. I clicked the link, thinking maybe I'd find a good read. Imagine my surprise when I got to the M's and saw:
Mid-Atlantic Mommy: This blog just makes me smile. Adorable pictures, great writing. She’s funny, witty, and charming.
WHA?! That's MY blog! Someone thinks I'm witty and charming! I make Sally smile! Thank you, Sally! I love reading your blog. I think you are a wonderful person (even though we've never met and so far I'm terrible at being e-friends with anyone). I am SO flattered to be on your blog roll! WOW!
So on Thursday, I happened to be wearing a tighter, low-ish cut shirt. It was hot pink, and I felt cute. My coworker (who happens to be one of my bestest friends) looked over at me at one point in the day and said, "Hey! Is that a new shirt? You don't look as bad in it as before!"
Um. What?! I don't look as bad in it? AS BAD? It's a good thing she's one of my besties, right? Because you don't tell a new mom that she's not looking as bad. Fortunately, after I scooped my jaw off the floor, all I could do was laugh. This woman has been going to the gym with me religiously for the last two months. She's the one who bullied me into joining the gym in the first place. She was trying to compliment me on the visual effects of my recent weight loss efforts. What she meant to say was "Hey! Is that a new shirt? You look great!" That's how I took it, as I walked over to give her a jovial hug.
And when I got home from work that night, still wearing a tight, low-ish cut, hot pink shirt, Hubby reiterated the compliment. He didn't even say hello. He just grabbed for my chest and started kissing. If that's not a compliment, I don't know what it.
Combined, the two compliments on Thursday are what got me out of bed at 5:45 the next morning to get to the gym for the first time in two weeks. I had skipped the gym while recovering from the plague. I was worried that I wouldn't go back. It's so easy to fall off that wagon. But I did go back. And I'm going back again tomorrow. I'm back on the gym wagon! And hearing such wonderful praise from Sally on Saturday? I am on cloud nine.
Compliments feel real good.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
20/20
I squint a lot. I have a permanent crease on my forehead from the constant furrowing of my brow. I have worn glasses since I was 9 years old. I don't know what it's like to see with 20/20 vision.
Sometimes, as I squint at something in the distance trying to make a blurry image more clear, I wonder if maybe I am actually seeing in 20/20 and I just don't recognize it. Surely, there comes a point even for people with perfect vision where they just can't see clearly anymore. It's not like people can see off into the infinite horizons. So maybe it's normal when I can't see this or read that. Maybe I'm looking for clarity where none should be expected. Maybe my vision (as corrected) is 20/20 after all, and it's my expectations that are flawed.
I sometimes feel this way about my happiness. I am squinting my eyes, furrowing my brow, striving to feel a happiness I do not know. I never feel quite happy enough. Is my disatisfaction a normal feeling, or am I unhappier than most? Am I reaching for a level of happiness that isn't attainable? Am I trying to see clearly off into the distance? Maybe I am as happy as can be expected of anyone at any given time. Maybe my happiness is 20/20 after all, and it's my expectations that are flawed.
For a long time, I had a check-list of everything I thought I needed to do to make my life complete. Get a job. Get married. Get a degree. Have a baby. I checked each of those off my list, one by one; each was supposed to make me feel fulfilled and happy. Instead of feeling fulfilled and happy, I feel restless. Ok, I had the baby. Now what? Um, how about enjoy the hilarious, beautiful smart little girl? Maybe I should put that on my list: learn to appreciate the moment.
Maybe my life - my vision, my happiness - is 20/20 after all, and I just don't know it.
Sometimes, as I squint at something in the distance trying to make a blurry image more clear, I wonder if maybe I am actually seeing in 20/20 and I just don't recognize it. Surely, there comes a point even for people with perfect vision where they just can't see clearly anymore. It's not like people can see off into the infinite horizons. So maybe it's normal when I can't see this or read that. Maybe I'm looking for clarity where none should be expected. Maybe my vision (as corrected) is 20/20 after all, and it's my expectations that are flawed.
I sometimes feel this way about my happiness. I am squinting my eyes, furrowing my brow, striving to feel a happiness I do not know. I never feel quite happy enough. Is my disatisfaction a normal feeling, or am I unhappier than most? Am I reaching for a level of happiness that isn't attainable? Am I trying to see clearly off into the distance? Maybe I am as happy as can be expected of anyone at any given time. Maybe my happiness is 20/20 after all, and it's my expectations that are flawed.
For a long time, I had a check-list of everything I thought I needed to do to make my life complete. Get a job. Get married. Get a degree. Have a baby. I checked each of those off my list, one by one; each was supposed to make me feel fulfilled and happy. Instead of feeling fulfilled and happy, I feel restless. Ok, I had the baby. Now what? Um, how about enjoy the hilarious, beautiful smart little girl? Maybe I should put that on my list: learn to appreciate the moment.
Maybe my life - my vision, my happiness - is 20/20 after all, and I just don't know it.
20/20
I squint a lot. I have a permanent crease on my forehead from the constant furrowing of my brow. I have worn glasses since I was 9 years old. I don't know what it's like to see with 20/20 vision.
Sometimes, as I squint at something in the distance trying to make a blurry image more clear, I wonder if maybe I am actually seeing in 20/20 and I just don't recognize it. Surely, there comes a point even for people with perfect vision where they just can't see clearly anymore. It's not like people can see off into the infinite horizons. So maybe it's normal when I can't see this or read that. Maybe I'm looking for clarity where none should be expected. Maybe my vision (as corrected) is 20/20 after all, and it's my expectations that are flawed.
I sometimes feel this way about my happiness. I am squinting my eyes, furrowing my brow, striving to feel a happiness I do not know. I never feel quite happy enough. Is my disatisfaction a normal feeling, or am I unhappier than most? Am I reaching for a level of happiness that isn't attainable? Am I trying to see clearly off into the distance? Maybe I am as happy as can be expected of anyone at any given time. Maybe my happiness is 20/20 after all, and it's my expectations that are flawed.
For a long time, I had a check-list of everything I thought I needed to do to make my life complete. Get a job. Get married. Get a degree. Have a baby. I checked each of those off my list, one by one; each was supposed to make me feel fulfilled and happy. Instead of feeling fulfilled and happy, I feel restless. Ok, I had the baby. Now what? Um, how about enjoy the hilarious, beautiful smart little girl? Maybe I should put that on my list: learn to appreciate the moment.
Maybe my life - my vision, my happiness - is 20/20 after all, and I just don't know it.
Sometimes, as I squint at something in the distance trying to make a blurry image more clear, I wonder if maybe I am actually seeing in 20/20 and I just don't recognize it. Surely, there comes a point even for people with perfect vision where they just can't see clearly anymore. It's not like people can see off into the infinite horizons. So maybe it's normal when I can't see this or read that. Maybe I'm looking for clarity where none should be expected. Maybe my vision (as corrected) is 20/20 after all, and it's my expectations that are flawed.
I sometimes feel this way about my happiness. I am squinting my eyes, furrowing my brow, striving to feel a happiness I do not know. I never feel quite happy enough. Is my disatisfaction a normal feeling, or am I unhappier than most? Am I reaching for a level of happiness that isn't attainable? Am I trying to see clearly off into the distance? Maybe I am as happy as can be expected of anyone at any given time. Maybe my happiness is 20/20 after all, and it's my expectations that are flawed.
For a long time, I had a check-list of everything I thought I needed to do to make my life complete. Get a job. Get married. Get a degree. Have a baby. I checked each of those off my list, one by one; each was supposed to make me feel fulfilled and happy. Instead of feeling fulfilled and happy, I feel restless. Ok, I had the baby. Now what? Um, how about enjoy the hilarious, beautiful smart little girl? Maybe I should put that on my list: learn to appreciate the moment.
Maybe my life - my vision, my happiness - is 20/20 after all, and I just don't know it.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
What Friends Are For
Maryland got hit by snow - again - late Monday night and into Tuesday morning. And since Baltimore County has no idea what to do when it snows, they cancelled school - again. Which meant Laura's day care would also be closed for the day. Which meant I would have to take yet another day off from work, after missing three days last week to the plague.
But I was able to go to work after all! Did I leave the dog in charge of the baby while I was away? Nope! I was able to leave Laura with a dear friend, whose 7-month-old son is the same size as my peanut of a daughter. Laura had a day-long playdate, while I went to work worry-free. And even better? My friend documented the day in photographs for me!
I am so thankful to have so many great friends right near us that I can count on in a pinch. I would do the same for them in a heartbeat if called upon! That's what friends are for.
 |
| Friends Forever! |
I am so thankful to have so many great friends right near us that I can count on in a pinch. I would do the same for them in a heartbeat if called upon! That's what friends are for.
What Friends Are For
Maryland got hit by snow - again - late Monday night and into Tuesday morning. And since Baltimore County has no idea what to do when it snows, they cancelled school - again. Which meant Laura's day care would also be closed for the day. Which meant I would have to take yet another day off from work, after missing three days last week to the plague.
But I was able to go to work after all! Did I leave the dog in charge of the baby while I was away? Nope! I was able to leave Laura with a dear friend, whose 7-month-old son is the same size as my peanut of a daughter. Laura had a day-long playdate, while I went to work worry-free. And even better? My friend documented the day in photographs for me!
I am so thankful to have so many great friends right near us that I can count on in a pinch. I would do the same for them in a heartbeat if called upon! That's what friends are for.
|
| Friends Forever! |
I am so thankful to have so many great friends right near us that I can count on in a pinch. I would do the same for them in a heartbeat if called upon! That's what friends are for.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Notes from the Sick Bay
Hi! I'm back! My nose is still pretty stuffy, but I'm feeling so much better, I can't even begin to tell you. Except that I will. Here's what last week looked like for me (in bullet points)
Last Saturday: Hmm. I can't seem to hear out of my left ear. I'm going to ignore it.
Last Sunday: Hmm. I can't seem to hear out of my left ear. I'm going to ignore it.
Monday: Ok. This hearing thing is really starting to bug me.
Tuesday: Yeah, I'm definitely sick. But I'm going to stay at work anyway.
Wednesday: I can't make it to work. But I think I can just sleep this thing off.
Thursday: Ok, maybe it's time to see a doctor about this. What? Two ear infections AND a sinus infection?!
Friday: I think I can. I think I can. I think I - NOPE. Can't get to work.
Saturday: Yay! Antibiotics are starting to kick - NOPE. Never mind.
Sunday: Time to go back to the doctor. I hurt. What? Sinus infection not clearing up?
Sunday night: Wait a minute... I think this is a migraine. Ta-da!
So now it's Monday. I'm supposed to have off, since it's Presidents Day and all. But I'm at work, making up a few hours. I'm finally feeling human again, and it's a great feeling. Let me tell you.
And if you were interested in watching the 1995 movie Now and Then, starring Demi Moore, Rosie O'Donnell and Christina Ricci? Don't. It was terrible.
Last Saturday: Hmm. I can't seem to hear out of my left ear. I'm going to ignore it.
Last Sunday: Hmm. I can't seem to hear out of my left ear. I'm going to ignore it.
Monday: Ok. This hearing thing is really starting to bug me.
Tuesday: Yeah, I'm definitely sick. But I'm going to stay at work anyway.
Wednesday: I can't make it to work. But I think I can just sleep this thing off.
Thursday: Ok, maybe it's time to see a doctor about this. What? Two ear infections AND a sinus infection?!
Friday: I think I can. I think I can. I think I - NOPE. Can't get to work.
Saturday: Yay! Antibiotics are starting to kick - NOPE. Never mind.
Sunday: Time to go back to the doctor. I hurt. What? Sinus infection not clearing up?
Sunday night: Wait a minute... I think this is a migraine. Ta-da!
So now it's Monday. I'm supposed to have off, since it's Presidents Day and all. But I'm at work, making up a few hours. I'm finally feeling human again, and it's a great feeling. Let me tell you.
And if you were interested in watching the 1995 movie Now and Then, starring Demi Moore, Rosie O'Donnell and Christina Ricci? Don't. It was terrible.
Notes from the Sick Bay
Hi! I'm back! My nose is still pretty stuffy, but I'm feeling so much better, I can't even begin to tell you. Except that I will. Here's what last week looked like for me (in bullet points)
Last Saturday: Hmm. I can't seem to hear out of my left ear. I'm going to ignore it.
Last Sunday: Hmm. I can't seem to hear out of my left ear. I'm going to ignore it.
Monday: Ok. This hearing thing is really starting to bug me.
Tuesday: Yeah, I'm definitely sick. But I'm going to stay at work anyway.
Wednesday: I can't make it to work. But I think I can just sleep this thing off.
Thursday: Ok, maybe it's time to see a doctor about this. What? Two ear infections AND a sinus infection?!
Friday: I think I can. I think I can. I think I - NOPE. Can't get to work.
Saturday: Yay! Antibiotics are starting to kick - NOPE. Never mind.
Sunday: Time to go back to the doctor. I hurt. What? Sinus infection not clearing up?
Sunday night: Wait a minute... I think this is a migraine. Ta-da!
So now it's Monday. I'm supposed to have off, since it's Presidents Day and all. But I'm at work, making up a few hours. I'm finally feeling human again, and it's a great feeling. Let me tell you.
And if you were interested in watching the 1995 movie Now and Then, starring Demi Moore, Rosie O'Donnell and Christina Ricci? Don't. It was terrible.
Last Saturday: Hmm. I can't seem to hear out of my left ear. I'm going to ignore it.
Last Sunday: Hmm. I can't seem to hear out of my left ear. I'm going to ignore it.
Monday: Ok. This hearing thing is really starting to bug me.
Tuesday: Yeah, I'm definitely sick. But I'm going to stay at work anyway.
Wednesday: I can't make it to work. But I think I can just sleep this thing off.
Thursday: Ok, maybe it's time to see a doctor about this. What? Two ear infections AND a sinus infection?!
Friday: I think I can. I think I can. I think I - NOPE. Can't get to work.
Saturday: Yay! Antibiotics are starting to kick - NOPE. Never mind.
Sunday: Time to go back to the doctor. I hurt. What? Sinus infection not clearing up?
Sunday night: Wait a minute... I think this is a migraine. Ta-da!
So now it's Monday. I'm supposed to have off, since it's Presidents Day and all. But I'm at work, making up a few hours. I'm finally feeling human again, and it's a great feeling. Let me tell you.
And if you were interested in watching the 1995 movie Now and Then, starring Demi Moore, Rosie O'Donnell and Christina Ricci? Don't. It was terrible.
Friday, February 18, 2011
I'm Alive...
...Just barely.
Today is my third day home sick from work. I went to the doctor yesterday. An ear infection in each ear, plus a sinus infection. No wonder I can't hear anything. After one full day on antibiotics, I'm still feeling lousy. I actually tried to go to work this morning. I got out of bed, took a shower, got dressed... and then called in sick. I just couldn't do it. The thought of commuting was just too much.
So here I am, at home, again. I haven't been able to do much or read much in the last few days. I haven't felt this awful since I had mono in high school. Cheers to the long weekend we have, so I can recover!
Today is my third day home sick from work. I went to the doctor yesterday. An ear infection in each ear, plus a sinus infection. No wonder I can't hear anything. After one full day on antibiotics, I'm still feeling lousy. I actually tried to go to work this morning. I got out of bed, took a shower, got dressed... and then called in sick. I just couldn't do it. The thought of commuting was just too much.
So here I am, at home, again. I haven't been able to do much or read much in the last few days. I haven't felt this awful since I had mono in high school. Cheers to the long weekend we have, so I can recover!
I'm Alive...
...Just barely.
Today is my third day home sick from work. I went to the doctor yesterday. An ear infection in each ear, plus a sinus infection. No wonder I can't hear anything. After one full day on antibiotics, I'm still feeling lousy. I actually tried to go to work this morning. I got out of bed, took a shower, got dressed... and then called in sick. I just couldn't do it. The thought of commuting was just too much.
So here I am, at home, again. I haven't been able to do much or read much in the last few days. I haven't felt this awful since I had mono in high school. Cheers to the long weekend we have, so I can recover!
Today is my third day home sick from work. I went to the doctor yesterday. An ear infection in each ear, plus a sinus infection. No wonder I can't hear anything. After one full day on antibiotics, I'm still feeling lousy. I actually tried to go to work this morning. I got out of bed, took a shower, got dressed... and then called in sick. I just couldn't do it. The thought of commuting was just too much.
So here I am, at home, again. I haven't been able to do much or read much in the last few days. I haven't felt this awful since I had mono in high school. Cheers to the long weekend we have, so I can recover!
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
This Made Me Smile
Which is something, because I'm feeling pretty awful. Influenza? I think I haz that. So instead of posting about myself today, I leave you with this:
SO TRUE. And SO FUNNY!
Enjoy this hilariously funny post, and hopefully I'll be back tomorrow.
SO TRUE. And SO FUNNY!
Enjoy this hilariously funny post, and hopefully I'll be back tomorrow.
This Made Me Smile
Which is something, because I'm feeling pretty awful. Influenza? I think I haz that. So instead of posting about myself today, I leave you with this:
SO TRUE. And SO FUNNY!
Enjoy this hilariously funny post, and hopefully I'll be back tomorrow.
SO TRUE. And SO FUNNY!
Enjoy this hilariously funny post, and hopefully I'll be back tomorrow.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
I made a pathetic decision today
I haven't been feeling well for the last few days. For the last two mornings, I have weighed my crappy-feeling-ness against my severe lack of sick leave, and have hauled myself out of bed. This afternoon, I started feeling even crappier, and thought about going home early.
The way I saw it, I could continue to be miserable at work, or I could be miserable at home. Work has co-workers, work clothes, shoes and awful fluorescent lighting. Home has a couch, mindless TV, jammies and slippers, but it also has a toddler. A loud and energetic toddler. Frankly, I don't have the strength to amuse Laura this afternoon.
I chose work.
The way I saw it, I could continue to be miserable at work, or I could be miserable at home. Work has co-workers, work clothes, shoes and awful fluorescent lighting. Home has a couch, mindless TV, jammies and slippers, but it also has a toddler. A loud and energetic toddler. Frankly, I don't have the strength to amuse Laura this afternoon.
I chose work.
I made a pathetic decision today
I haven't been feeling well for the last few days. For the last two mornings, I have weighed my crappy-feeling-ness against my severe lack of sick leave, and have hauled myself out of bed. This afternoon, I started feeling even crappier, and thought about going home early.
The way I saw it, I could continue to be miserable at work, or I could be miserable at home. Work has co-workers, work clothes, shoes and awful fluorescent lighting. Home has a couch, mindless TV, jammies and slippers, but it also has a toddler. A loud and energetic toddler. Frankly, I don't have the strength to amuse Laura this afternoon.
I chose work.
The way I saw it, I could continue to be miserable at work, or I could be miserable at home. Work has co-workers, work clothes, shoes and awful fluorescent lighting. Home has a couch, mindless TV, jammies and slippers, but it also has a toddler. A loud and energetic toddler. Frankly, I don't have the strength to amuse Laura this afternoon.
I chose work.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Happy Valentine's Day!
So despite the conversation I had with Nate over the weekend, I really do love Valentine's Day. Every year, I dress in something pink or red. I make sure to actually put in some effort that morning to look cute. This year, I got to dress Laura up for school. She went off in cupcake leggings, a pink undershirt, and a darker pink dress. She looked super festive (even with the remnants of sleep creased across her little face). When I get home this evening, I'll try to cook a nice meal for Nate and I to enjoy when he gets home from work.
For me though, the best part of Valentine's Day is making handmade Valentines for the people I love. This year, Laura "made" them for everyone. I cut out heart shapes from construction paper, glued on a picture of Laura, decorated with stickers and stampers, and wrote "BE MINE!" on each. Ok, so Laura didn't actually make any of them. But each time I sat down at the table to work on them, Laura tried her best to grab the scissors, glue, stickers, photos, paper, and markers. She did whatever she could to interfere!
Which is why I wound up making them during naptime. Maybe Laura will be a better helper next year.
For me though, the best part of Valentine's Day is making handmade Valentines for the people I love. This year, Laura "made" them for everyone. I cut out heart shapes from construction paper, glued on a picture of Laura, decorated with stickers and stampers, and wrote "BE MINE!" on each. Ok, so Laura didn't actually make any of them. But each time I sat down at the table to work on them, Laura tried her best to grab the scissors, glue, stickers, photos, paper, and markers. She did whatever she could to interfere!
Happy Valentine's Day!
So despite the conversation I had with Nate over the weekend, I really do love Valentine's Day. Every year, I dress in something pink or red. I make sure to actually put in some effort that morning to look cute. This year, I got to dress Laura up for school. She went off in cupcake leggings, a pink undershirt, and a darker pink dress. She looked super festive (even with the remnants of sleep creased across her little face). When I get home this evening, I'll try to cook a nice meal for Nate and I to enjoy when he gets home from work.
For me though, the best part of Valentine's Day is making handmade Valentines for the people I love. This year, Laura "made" them for everyone. I cut out heart shapes from construction paper, glued on a picture of Laura, decorated with stickers and stampers, and wrote "BE MINE!" on each. Ok, so Laura didn't actually make any of them. But each time I sat down at the table to work on them, Laura tried her best to grab the scissors, glue, stickers, photos, paper, and markers. She did whatever she could to interfere!
Which is why I wound up making them during naptime. Maybe Laura will be a better helper next year.
For me though, the best part of Valentine's Day is making handmade Valentines for the people I love. This year, Laura "made" them for everyone. I cut out heart shapes from construction paper, glued on a picture of Laura, decorated with stickers and stampers, and wrote "BE MINE!" on each. Ok, so Laura didn't actually make any of them. But each time I sat down at the table to work on them, Laura tried her best to grab the scissors, glue, stickers, photos, paper, and markers. She did whatever she could to interfere!
Saturday, February 12, 2011
A Conversation
Hubby: Um, you didn't want to do anything on Monday for Valentine's Day, did you?
Me: God no! Sit in a crowded restaurant and pay too much for a crappy prix-fixe menu? No way.
Hubby: Good. Oh, and no flowers either.
Me: Of course not! Remember 2005 when you had flowers sent to me and they arrived dead, three days late?
Hubby: Yeah, and they were expensive!
Me: I do like those holiday color M&M's...
Hubby: I'll keep that in mind.
Me: But NO RUSSEL STOVER! I hate those!
Hubby: Not a problem.
Me: I'm glad we are on the same page. Love you!
Hubby: Love you too!
Me: God no! Sit in a crowded restaurant and pay too much for a crappy prix-fixe menu? No way.
Hubby: Good. Oh, and no flowers either.
Me: Of course not! Remember 2005 when you had flowers sent to me and they arrived dead, three days late?
Hubby: Yeah, and they were expensive!
Me: I do like those holiday color M&M's...
Hubby: I'll keep that in mind.
Me: But NO RUSSEL STOVER! I hate those!
Hubby: Not a problem.
Me: I'm glad we are on the same page. Love you!
Hubby: Love you too!
A Conversation
Hubby: Um, you didn't want to do anything on Monday for Valentine's Day, did you?
Me: God no! Sit in a crowded restaurant and pay too much for a crappy prix-fixe menu? No way.
Hubby: Good. Oh, and no flowers either.
Me: Of course not! Remember 2005 when you had flowers sent to me and they arrived dead, three days late?
Hubby: Yeah, and they were expensive!
Me: I do like those holiday color M&M's...
Hubby: I'll keep that in mind.
Me: But NO RUSSEL STOVER! I hate those!
Hubby: Not a problem.
Me: I'm glad we are on the same page. Love you!
Hubby: Love you too!
Me: God no! Sit in a crowded restaurant and pay too much for a crappy prix-fixe menu? No way.
Hubby: Good. Oh, and no flowers either.
Me: Of course not! Remember 2005 when you had flowers sent to me and they arrived dead, three days late?
Hubby: Yeah, and they were expensive!
Me: I do like those holiday color M&M's...
Hubby: I'll keep that in mind.
Me: But NO RUSSEL STOVER! I hate those!
Hubby: Not a problem.
Me: I'm glad we are on the same page. Love you!
Hubby: Love you too!
Thursday, February 10, 2011
We just added a whole room to our house
Ok. Maybe we didn't add a whole room, per se.
But we did gain a whole lotta space in a matter of minutes this morning!
 |
| The Old Behemoth |
The MidAtlantic's got a new TV!
 |
| The New Beauty |
And don't you love the new cabinet too? I feel like such a grown-up. Our house has real, actual, bonafide furniture!
We just added a whole room to our house
Ok. Maybe we didn't add a whole room, per se.
But we did gain a whole lotta space in a matter of minutes this morning!
|
| The Old Behemoth |
The MidAtlantic's got a new TV!
|
| The New Beauty |
And don't you love the new cabinet too? I feel like such a grown-up. Our house has real, actual, bonafide furniture!
Buyer's Remorse
Yesterday was an extreme case of Buyer's Remorse for me. I typed up a blog post. Saved it. Reread it. Saved it. Read it again. And then finally hit the publish button.
I immediately felt torn. Should I have published the post? Should I have just kept it to myself?
The first few comments made me feel proud of taking the risk and publishing my true and honest opinions on my blog. And then I got some comments that made me wretched and heartsick and physically nauseous. I should have kept that post to myself. I shouldn't have hit publish. We're all just moms doing our best to survive, so why would I add fuel to a fire of controversy?
Then I got angry. Really angry. It's MY BLOG. Who cares what anyone else thinks? I don't blog for anyone but myself. I do love readers and comments, but in the end this is for me. Did I get some hurrahs from readers? Great! Did I possibly alienate myself from some others? Maybe. In the end, it doesn't matter. This is my blog to say what I want.
I stand by everything I said yesterday. I am tired of hearing about all these different trendy-super-mommy-methodologies. In the end, we are all parents. So what does it matter how we get there? I'm not even sorry if I pissed you off. I respect your opinions, you can respect mine in return. No one is forcing you to read.
All that said, I leave you with a cute picture as a peace offering:
I immediately felt torn. Should I have published the post? Should I have just kept it to myself?
The first few comments made me feel proud of taking the risk and publishing my true and honest opinions on my blog. And then I got some comments that made me wretched and heartsick and physically nauseous. I should have kept that post to myself. I shouldn't have hit publish. We're all just moms doing our best to survive, so why would I add fuel to a fire of controversy?
Then I got angry. Really angry. It's MY BLOG. Who cares what anyone else thinks? I don't blog for anyone but myself. I do love readers and comments, but in the end this is for me. Did I get some hurrahs from readers? Great! Did I possibly alienate myself from some others? Maybe. In the end, it doesn't matter. This is my blog to say what I want.
I stand by everything I said yesterday. I am tired of hearing about all these different trendy-super-mommy-methodologies. In the end, we are all parents. So what does it matter how we get there? I'm not even sorry if I pissed you off. I respect your opinions, you can respect mine in return. No one is forcing you to read.
All that said, I leave you with a cute picture as a peace offering:
 |
| Sorry for the blur - it's hard to catch that scrunchy smile in action! |
Buyer's Remorse
Yesterday was an extreme case of Buyer's Remorse for me. I typed up a blog post. Saved it. Reread it. Saved it. Read it again. And then finally hit the publish button.
I immediately felt torn. Should I have published the post? Should I have just kept it to myself?
The first few comments made me feel proud of taking the risk and publishing my true and honest opinions on my blog. And then I got some comments that made me wretched and heartsick and physically nauseous. I should have kept that post to myself. I shouldn't have hit publish. We're all just moms doing our best to survive, so why would I add fuel to a fire of controversy?
Then I got angry. Really angry. It's MY BLOG. Who cares what anyone else thinks? I don't blog for anyone but myself. I do love readers and comments, but in the end this is for me. Did I get some hurrahs from readers? Great! Did I possibly alienate myself from some others? Maybe. In the end, it doesn't matter. This is my blog to say what I want.
I stand by everything I said yesterday. I am tired of hearing about all these different trendy-super-mommy-methodologies. In the end, we are all parents. So what does it matter how we get there? I'm not even sorry if I pissed you off. I respect your opinions, you can respect mine in return. No one is forcing you to read.
All that said, I leave you with a cute picture as a peace offering:
I immediately felt torn. Should I have published the post? Should I have just kept it to myself?
The first few comments made me feel proud of taking the risk and publishing my true and honest opinions on my blog. And then I got some comments that made me wretched and heartsick and physically nauseous. I should have kept that post to myself. I shouldn't have hit publish. We're all just moms doing our best to survive, so why would I add fuel to a fire of controversy?
Then I got angry. Really angry. It's MY BLOG. Who cares what anyone else thinks? I don't blog for anyone but myself. I do love readers and comments, but in the end this is for me. Did I get some hurrahs from readers? Great! Did I possibly alienate myself from some others? Maybe. In the end, it doesn't matter. This is my blog to say what I want.
I stand by everything I said yesterday. I am tired of hearing about all these different trendy-super-mommy-methodologies. In the end, we are all parents. So what does it matter how we get there? I'm not even sorry if I pissed you off. I respect your opinions, you can respect mine in return. No one is forcing you to read.
All that said, I leave you with a cute picture as a peace offering:
|
| Sorry for the blur - it's hard to catch that scrunchy smile in action! |
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Detached and Unnatural
Laura plays with plastic toys, wears disposable diapers, drinks formula, and eats grocery store baby food. I guess that means I'm an unnatural parent.
I don't "wear" my baby. I'm not comfortable - physically or otherwise - slinging her around the mall in a piece of cloth. I guess that means I'm a detached parent.
I'm sorry. I don't mean to be offensive by any means, and I know none of you want to be offensive in any way either. But my feelings get hurt a little every time I read about natural parenting, attachment parenting, or any of those other parenting styles that are so big right now.
I haven't read any books on how to be a mom. Not one. Maybe you think that makes me less informed. I think it makes me rely on my own maternal instincts a little more. You know, those natural feelings that are innate to motherhood. If I have a question, I ask any of the wonderful mothers I am fortunate enough to know: my mother, my husband's mother, my dearest friends. These are my peers in motherhood. My mentors. So far, not one of them has led me astray. And their advice? Just listen to my heart, do what feels natural. As if I would do something that felt unnatural!
Am I not raising a happy, healthy child? Is she not independent and strong? Is my baby less intelligent because I haven't read any books? I don't think so.
Laura's imagination is sated. Her bottom is dry. Her tummy is full. She climbs up on my lap when she wants a hug, and then climbs right back down again to play with her latest treasure. I get down on the floor with her and play along. For a child who is just one, barely walking and not yet talking, Laura sure does have a wonderful imagination. Laura plays wonderful games by herself, with me, and even with the dog (a somewhat unwilling participant).
And when I look at how far my husband and I have come from our first moments meeting our beautiful daughter just over a year ago, I feel that everything we have done has been naturally and with attachment. I am a natural parent, even if I'm not necessarily green. I am an attached parent, even if I'm not physically attached at every moment.
So let's give a round of applause for all the mothers out there who are raising their children the best way they know how. With or without books, with or without ascribing to certain styles or trends. If you are reading books, you are doing what feels natural to you. Good for you. Keep reading.
And truly, I don't want to hurt any one's feelings, because having your feelings hurt just sucks. We are all doing the best we can.
I don't "wear" my baby. I'm not comfortable - physically or otherwise - slinging her around the mall in a piece of cloth. I guess that means I'm a detached parent.
I'm sorry. I don't mean to be offensive by any means, and I know none of you want to be offensive in any way either. But my feelings get hurt a little every time I read about natural parenting, attachment parenting, or any of those other parenting styles that are so big right now.
I haven't read any books on how to be a mom. Not one. Maybe you think that makes me less informed. I think it makes me rely on my own maternal instincts a little more. You know, those natural feelings that are innate to motherhood. If I have a question, I ask any of the wonderful mothers I am fortunate enough to know: my mother, my husband's mother, my dearest friends. These are my peers in motherhood. My mentors. So far, not one of them has led me astray. And their advice? Just listen to my heart, do what feels natural. As if I would do something that felt unnatural!
Am I not raising a happy, healthy child? Is she not independent and strong? Is my baby less intelligent because I haven't read any books? I don't think so.
Laura's imagination is sated. Her bottom is dry. Her tummy is full. She climbs up on my lap when she wants a hug, and then climbs right back down again to play with her latest treasure. I get down on the floor with her and play along. For a child who is just one, barely walking and not yet talking, Laura sure does have a wonderful imagination. Laura plays wonderful games by herself, with me, and even with the dog (a somewhat unwilling participant).
And when I look at how far my husband and I have come from our first moments meeting our beautiful daughter just over a year ago, I feel that everything we have done has been naturally and with attachment. I am a natural parent, even if I'm not necessarily green. I am an attached parent, even if I'm not physically attached at every moment.
So let's give a round of applause for all the mothers out there who are raising their children the best way they know how. With or without books, with or without ascribing to certain styles or trends. If you are reading books, you are doing what feels natural to you. Good for you. Keep reading.
And truly, I don't want to hurt any one's feelings, because having your feelings hurt just sucks. We are all doing the best we can.
Detached and Unnatural
Laura plays with plastic toys, wears disposable diapers, drinks formula, and eats grocery store baby food. I guess that means I'm an unnatural parent.
I don't "wear" my baby. I'm not comfortable - physically or otherwise - slinging her around the mall in a piece of cloth. I guess that means I'm a detached parent.
I'm sorry. I don't mean to be offensive by any means, and I know none of you want to be offensive in any way either. But my feelings get hurt a little every time I read about natural parenting, attachment parenting, or any of those other parenting styles that are so big right now.
I haven't read any books on how to be a mom. Not one. Maybe you think that makes me less informed. I think it makes me rely on my own maternal instincts a little more. You know, those natural feelings that are innate to motherhood. If I have a question, I ask any of the wonderful mothers I am fortunate enough to know: my mother, my husband's mother, my dearest friends. These are my peers in motherhood. My mentors. So far, not one of them has led me astray. And their advice? Just listen to my heart, do what feels natural. As if I would do something that felt unnatural!
Am I not raising a happy, healthy child? Is she not independent and strong? Is my baby less intelligent because I haven't read any books? I don't think so.
Laura's imagination is sated. Her bottom is dry. Her tummy is full. She climbs up on my lap when she wants a hug, and then climbs right back down again to play with her latest treasure. I get down on the floor with her and play along. For a child who is just one, barely walking and not yet talking, Laura sure does have a wonderful imagination. Laura plays wonderful games by herself, with me, and even with the dog (a somewhat unwilling participant).
And when I look at how far my husband and I have come from our first moments meeting our beautiful daughter just over a year ago, I feel that everything we have done has been naturally and with attachment. I am a natural parent, even if I'm not necessarily green. I am an attached parent, even if I'm not physically attached at every moment.
So let's give a round of applause for all the mothers out there who are raising their children the best way they know how. With or without books, with or without ascribing to certain styles or trends. If you are reading books, you are doing what feels natural to you. Good for you. Keep reading.
And truly, I don't want to hurt any one's feelings, because having your feelings hurt just sucks. We are all doing the best we can.
I don't "wear" my baby. I'm not comfortable - physically or otherwise - slinging her around the mall in a piece of cloth. I guess that means I'm a detached parent.
I'm sorry. I don't mean to be offensive by any means, and I know none of you want to be offensive in any way either. But my feelings get hurt a little every time I read about natural parenting, attachment parenting, or any of those other parenting styles that are so big right now.
I haven't read any books on how to be a mom. Not one. Maybe you think that makes me less informed. I think it makes me rely on my own maternal instincts a little more. You know, those natural feelings that are innate to motherhood. If I have a question, I ask any of the wonderful mothers I am fortunate enough to know: my mother, my husband's mother, my dearest friends. These are my peers in motherhood. My mentors. So far, not one of them has led me astray. And their advice? Just listen to my heart, do what feels natural. As if I would do something that felt unnatural!
Am I not raising a happy, healthy child? Is she not independent and strong? Is my baby less intelligent because I haven't read any books? I don't think so.
Laura's imagination is sated. Her bottom is dry. Her tummy is full. She climbs up on my lap when she wants a hug, and then climbs right back down again to play with her latest treasure. I get down on the floor with her and play along. For a child who is just one, barely walking and not yet talking, Laura sure does have a wonderful imagination. Laura plays wonderful games by herself, with me, and even with the dog (a somewhat unwilling participant).
And when I look at how far my husband and I have come from our first moments meeting our beautiful daughter just over a year ago, I feel that everything we have done has been naturally and with attachment. I am a natural parent, even if I'm not necessarily green. I am an attached parent, even if I'm not physically attached at every moment.
So let's give a round of applause for all the mothers out there who are raising their children the best way they know how. With or without books, with or without ascribing to certain styles or trends. If you are reading books, you are doing what feels natural to you. Good for you. Keep reading.
And truly, I don't want to hurt any one's feelings, because having your feelings hurt just sucks. We are all doing the best we can.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Laura's Chair
A table, a chair, a bowl of fruit and a violin; what else does a {baby} need to be happy?
~Albert Einstein
Earlier today, Alysha wrote about the best $4 she's spent - a lawn chair for her toddler to sit in as he reads his books. Alysha's post made me laugh, as I pictured Laura sitting on her favorite chair.
Yup. That's a play piano.
Laura's Chair
A table, a chair, a bowl of fruit and a violin; what else does a {baby} need to be happy?
~Albert Einstein
Earlier today, Alysha wrote about the best $4 she's spent - a lawn chair for her toddler to sit in as he reads his books. Alysha's post made me laugh, as I pictured Laura sitting on her favorite chair.
Yup. That's a play piano.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Outsourced
I find that I get the best ideas for blog posts at night, when I'm lying in bed reflecting on my day. These great posts float into my brain - I even start writing them as I drift off to sleep. In the morning, I think "Wow, that was a great post idea. What was it again?" Last night, as I lay reflecting on my day, I could hear Nate and my mother-in-law laughing along to "Outsourced" on NBC.*
Listening to the show through an air vent while trying to fall asleep, I couldn't get the exact gist of all the jokes, but I could laugh along in my own way. Having been on the line with several Indian and Russian customer service reps in the last few days, I knew exactly what the jokes were driving at.
Have you seen this ad?
I was seriously on the fun with a Russian guy named "Lucky" the other day, trying how to process a tax refund for a business expense on Target.com. He kept telling me to send a fax to get the refund. Ok, thanks "Lucky," but to whom am I sending this fax? And with what information? After about 5 minutes on hold while he asked his supervisor (presumably "Peggy" from the ad above) he came back with the following response: You send the fax on the fax machine with the tax refund request asking for the tax refund.
Gee, thanks Lucky! I was finally able to ascertain the required information after a fifteen minute phone call. I thanked "Lucky" for his time, and was tempted to say "Na zdorovje" (to your health) as I hung up the phone.
Yesterday, I found myself on the phone with a customer service rep once again, this time I had "Susan," who was clearly from India. "Susan" was even less helpful than "Lucky," as she was not authorized to give me the information I needed over the phone. I asked to whom I should speak instead, since I really needed the information and I really was who I said I was. "Susan" merely replied, once again, that she could not give me the information I needed over the phone. I could not bring it in my heart to be as patient with "Susan" as I had been with "Lucky." "YOU ARE SO NOT HELPFUL!" I yelled into the receiver as I slammed it onto the hook.
Listening to the guffaws below me last night, I began to regret somewhat my words to "Susan." I'm sure "Susan" was sitting in some Indian call center, as shy and unassuming as Madhuri on "Outsourced" (played by Anisha Nagarajan). My harsh words accomplished nothing for either of us, and were probably hurtful to "Susan." I'm sure "Susan" is yelled at 99% of her day, and I simply added to that. Not cool.
Can I promise that in the future I'll be nicer to every customer service rep I need to speak with? No. But I can try. In the meantime, "Outsourced" will continue to make me crack up with laughter. It's so funny because it's so true!
*Whose idea was it to move "Outsourced" - and 30 Rock! - to such a late time slot?? I can't stay up that late! And I love those shows!
Listening to the show through an air vent while trying to fall asleep, I couldn't get the exact gist of all the jokes, but I could laugh along in my own way. Having been on the line with several Indian and Russian customer service reps in the last few days, I knew exactly what the jokes were driving at.
Have you seen this ad?
I was seriously on the fun with a Russian guy named "Lucky" the other day, trying how to process a tax refund for a business expense on Target.com. He kept telling me to send a fax to get the refund. Ok, thanks "Lucky," but to whom am I sending this fax? And with what information? After about 5 minutes on hold while he asked his supervisor (presumably "Peggy" from the ad above) he came back with the following response: You send the fax on the fax machine with the tax refund request asking for the tax refund.
Gee, thanks Lucky! I was finally able to ascertain the required information after a fifteen minute phone call. I thanked "Lucky" for his time, and was tempted to say "Na zdorovje" (to your health) as I hung up the phone.
Yesterday, I found myself on the phone with a customer service rep once again, this time I had "Susan," who was clearly from India. "Susan" was even less helpful than "Lucky," as she was not authorized to give me the information I needed over the phone. I asked to whom I should speak instead, since I really needed the information and I really was who I said I was. "Susan" merely replied, once again, that she could not give me the information I needed over the phone. I could not bring it in my heart to be as patient with "Susan" as I had been with "Lucky." "YOU ARE SO NOT HELPFUL!" I yelled into the receiver as I slammed it onto the hook.
 |
| "Madhuri" as played by Anisha Nagarajan Photo from here |
Can I promise that in the future I'll be nicer to every customer service rep I need to speak with? No. But I can try. In the meantime, "Outsourced" will continue to make me crack up with laughter. It's so funny because it's so true!
*Whose idea was it to move "Outsourced" - and 30 Rock! - to such a late time slot?? I can't stay up that late! And I love those shows!
Outsourced
I find that I get the best ideas for blog posts at night, when I'm lying in bed reflecting on my day. These great posts float into my brain - I even start writing them as I drift off to sleep. In the morning, I think "Wow, that was a great post idea. What was it again?" Last night, as I lay reflecting on my day, I could hear Nate and my mother-in-law laughing along to "Outsourced" on NBC.*
Listening to the show through an air vent while trying to fall asleep, I couldn't get the exact gist of all the jokes, but I could laugh along in my own way. Having been on the line with several Indian and Russian customer service reps in the last few days, I knew exactly what the jokes were driving at.
Have you seen this ad?
I was seriously on the fun with a Russian guy named "Lucky" the other day, trying how to process a tax refund for a business expense on Target.com. He kept telling me to send a fax to get the refund. Ok, thanks "Lucky," but to whom am I sending this fax? And with what information? After about 5 minutes on hold while he asked his supervisor (presumably "Peggy" from the ad above) he came back with the following response: You send the fax on the fax machine with the tax refund request asking for the tax refund.
Gee, thanks Lucky! I was finally able to ascertain the required information after a fifteen minute phone call. I thanked "Lucky" for his time, and was tempted to say "Na zdorovje" (to your health) as I hung up the phone.
Yesterday, I found myself on the phone with a customer service rep once again, this time I had "Susan," who was clearly from India. "Susan" was even less helpful than "Lucky," as she was not authorized to give me the information I needed over the phone. I asked to whom I should speak instead, since I really needed the information and I really was who I said I was. "Susan" merely replied, once again, that she could not give me the information I needed over the phone. I could not bring it in my heart to be as patient with "Susan" as I had been with "Lucky." "YOU ARE SO NOT HELPFUL!" I yelled into the receiver as I slammed it onto the hook.
Listening to the guffaws below me last night, I began to regret somewhat my words to "Susan." I'm sure "Susan" was sitting in some Indian call center, as shy and unassuming as Madhuri on "Outsourced" (played by Anisha Nagarajan). My harsh words accomplished nothing for either of us, and were probably hurtful to "Susan." I'm sure "Susan" is yelled at 99% of her day, and I simply added to that. Not cool.
Can I promise that in the future I'll be nicer to every customer service rep I need to speak with? No. But I can try. In the meantime, "Outsourced" will continue to make me crack up with laughter. It's so funny because it's so true!
*Whose idea was it to move "Outsourced" - and 30 Rock! - to such a late time slot?? I can't stay up that late! And I love those shows!
Listening to the show through an air vent while trying to fall asleep, I couldn't get the exact gist of all the jokes, but I could laugh along in my own way. Having been on the line with several Indian and Russian customer service reps in the last few days, I knew exactly what the jokes were driving at.
Have you seen this ad?
I was seriously on the fun with a Russian guy named "Lucky" the other day, trying how to process a tax refund for a business expense on Target.com. He kept telling me to send a fax to get the refund. Ok, thanks "Lucky," but to whom am I sending this fax? And with what information? After about 5 minutes on hold while he asked his supervisor (presumably "Peggy" from the ad above) he came back with the following response: You send the fax on the fax machine with the tax refund request asking for the tax refund.
Gee, thanks Lucky! I was finally able to ascertain the required information after a fifteen minute phone call. I thanked "Lucky" for his time, and was tempted to say "Na zdorovje" (to your health) as I hung up the phone.
Yesterday, I found myself on the phone with a customer service rep once again, this time I had "Susan," who was clearly from India. "Susan" was even less helpful than "Lucky," as she was not authorized to give me the information I needed over the phone. I asked to whom I should speak instead, since I really needed the information and I really was who I said I was. "Susan" merely replied, once again, that she could not give me the information I needed over the phone. I could not bring it in my heart to be as patient with "Susan" as I had been with "Lucky." "YOU ARE SO NOT HELPFUL!" I yelled into the receiver as I slammed it onto the hook.
|
| "Madhuri" as played by Anisha Nagarajan Photo from here |
Can I promise that in the future I'll be nicer to every customer service rep I need to speak with? No. But I can try. In the meantime, "Outsourced" will continue to make me crack up with laughter. It's so funny because it's so true!
*Whose idea was it to move "Outsourced" - and 30 Rock! - to such a late time slot?? I can't stay up that late! And I love those shows!
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Tell me what you want
What you really really want...
Because who doesn't like the Spice Girls? Um, actually, I have to raise my hand here. I'm not really a big fan of the Spice Girls. But that's beside the point.
The point is... the point is... Um... I had a point!
I guess what I'm trying to get at is, I'd love to know what you, my loyal readers, really want from me. More pictures of the baby? I can do that. More witty prose about the Fabulous Life of the MidAtlantic's? Done. More heart-wrenching sob stories about the rollercoaster of life that I live (who's life isn't a rollercoaster)? Sure thing!
Just tell me, would ya? Sure, this blog is for me. But it sure does feel great when people out there in the interwebs respond so I know I exist or something. I need validation! So just in case you are looking for more pictures of the baby, here you go:
 |
| What on earth are those crazy shoes? Image found here. |
The point is... the point is... Um... I had a point!
I guess what I'm trying to get at is, I'd love to know what you, my loyal readers, really want from me. More pictures of the baby? I can do that. More witty prose about the Fabulous Life of the MidAtlantic's? Done. More heart-wrenching sob stories about the rollercoaster of life that I live (who's life isn't a rollercoaster)? Sure thing!
Just tell me, would ya? Sure, this blog is for me. But it sure does feel great when people out there in the interwebs respond so I know I exist or something. I need validation! So just in case you are looking for more pictures of the baby, here you go:
 |
| No Laura, don't touch the candle! |
 |
| Family Picture! |
Tell me what you want
What you really really want...
Because who doesn't like the Spice Girls? Um, actually, I have to raise my hand here. I'm not really a big fan of the Spice Girls. But that's beside the point.
The point is... the point is... Um... I had a point!
I guess what I'm trying to get at is, I'd love to know what you, my loyal readers, really want from me. More pictures of the baby? I can do that. More witty prose about the Fabulous Life of the MidAtlantic's? Done. More heart-wrenching sob stories about the rollercoaster of life that I live (who's life isn't a rollercoaster)? Sure thing!
Just tell me, would ya? Sure, this blog is for me. But it sure does feel great when people out there in the interwebs respond so I know I exist or something. I need validation! So just in case you are looking for more pictures of the baby, here you go:
|
| What on earth are those crazy shoes? Image found here. |
The point is... the point is... Um... I had a point!
I guess what I'm trying to get at is, I'd love to know what you, my loyal readers, really want from me. More pictures of the baby? I can do that. More witty prose about the Fabulous Life of the MidAtlantic's? Done. More heart-wrenching sob stories about the rollercoaster of life that I live (who's life isn't a rollercoaster)? Sure thing!
Just tell me, would ya? Sure, this blog is for me. But it sure does feel great when people out there in the interwebs respond so I know I exist or something. I need validation! So just in case you are looking for more pictures of the baby, here you go:
|
| No Laura, don't touch the candle! |
|
| Family Picture! |
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Snow Day!
We had another snow day today. Which is great when it actually snows and is pretty out and makes you want to curl up on the couch with hot cocoa and a good book, but not so great when it's another eight hours of leave you have to take from work just for ice overnight that melted by the time kids needed to get to school so it was a pretty pointless snow day.
On the other hand, Laura and I got to spend some quality time on the couch with the dog. Laura loves her puppy. If you couldn't tell.
I took myself down to the basement and hauled four years of Art History textbooks upstairs. I plugged each ISBN code into www.sellusedbooks.com, and earned $200 and a whole cupboard of extra storage space. I am not sure why I held onto the books for so long. At first, I thought maybe I'd get a Masters degree in Art History, but once it was clear that I would not be going in that direction, I should have gotten rid of the books. I guess sometimes it's hard to let go.
My grandmother is learning how hard it is to let go this week. She is packing up the home she has lived in since 1953 and is moving into an assisted living facility. It's the right move, and is likely long overdue. But it's amazing how much a person accumulates in a house over nearly 60 years. My mother and grandmother have been going back and forth over what can move with my grandmother, and what must be divvied up amongst the rest of the family.
I have to say, I am making out like a bandit with this move. I am getting a gorgeous heirloom sideboard that I have wanted my entire life, as well as countless paintings, and some fun kitchen accessories. My house is going to look spectacular once my parents can drive everything down to me. But planning where to put all of my grandmother's things has me looking at my current belongings with a very critical eye. I am getting rid of a ton of crap. It might have taken me a few years to let go of my textbooks, but WOW. It sure feels refreshing to get rid of unneeded stuff!
Snow Day!
We had another snow day today. Which is great when it actually snows and is pretty out and makes you want to curl up on the couch with hot cocoa and a good book, but not so great when it's another eight hours of leave you have to take from work just for ice overnight that melted by the time kids needed to get to school so it was a pretty pointless snow day.
On the other hand, Laura and I got to spend some quality time on the couch with the dog. Laura loves her puppy. If you couldn't tell.
I took myself down to the basement and hauled four years of Art History textbooks upstairs. I plugged each ISBN code into www.sellusedbooks.com, and earned $200 and a whole cupboard of extra storage space. I am not sure why I held onto the books for so long. At first, I thought maybe I'd get a Masters degree in Art History, but once it was clear that I would not be going in that direction, I should have gotten rid of the books. I guess sometimes it's hard to let go.
My grandmother is learning how hard it is to let go this week. She is packing up the home she has lived in since 1953 and is moving into an assisted living facility. It's the right move, and is likely long overdue. But it's amazing how much a person accumulates in a house over nearly 60 years. My mother and grandmother have been going back and forth over what can move with my grandmother, and what must be divvied up amongst the rest of the family.
I have to say, I am making out like a bandit with this move. I am getting a gorgeous heirloom sideboard that I have wanted my entire life, as well as countless paintings, and some fun kitchen accessories. My house is going to look spectacular once my parents can drive everything down to me. But planning where to put all of my grandmother's things has me looking at my current belongings with a very critical eye. I am getting rid of a ton of crap. It might have taken me a few years to let go of my textbooks, but WOW. It sure feels refreshing to get rid of unneeded stuff!
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