Wow! The past few weeks have been amazing. I have been able to slowly watch the transformation of the changing of the leaves. I've seen all shades of green, yellow, red, and orange. I look around as I drive. Trees surround me. They are in front of me, ahead of me, above me, and below me. I have been able to take the time needed to make an imprint in my memory of this beauty.
I talk to my children about them. I listen to how they describe what they see. They, of course, have so many things to say. This process occurs over the course of a few weeks. It really gets you in the mood for the colder weather and the holidays. It's like no other feeling I have had before. Now I understand what people have said all along. The changing of the seasons is truly an experience. One you should embrace and enjoy.
Lately, I have watched the leaves as they begin to fall. Even seeing them in piles is memorable. You really just want to run and jump into them. Maybe even lose yourself in them. I have many great photographic visions of my children in these leaves, thinking maybe I would pull my car over and photograph them buried leaving only their faces to see.
One night as I was trying to fall asleep I imagined myself as one of those leaves. I imagined myself holding on to the branch not wanting to let go. Eventually, I lose my grip and begin to drift realizing I have no control of where I would land. I felt so free. I allowed my senses to be heightened, feeling the coolness, the weightlessness, the fearlessness, letting myself be carried wherever I am destined to fall but at the same time feeling frightened by where I may end up, knowing I will never again be on the branch. That the tree will grow new leaves and I would be forgotten.
Instead, this leaf lands and a little girl and two boys come along and pick that leaf up and say "mommy look how beautiful this leaf is! Can we keep it?" and I say "yes, yes it is one of the most beautiful leaves I have ever seen and you may keep it."
I am reminded in this season of who I am, and it is my children who are helping see life for what it is and who move at the speed necessary to take in all the things around them. They are truly the ones who are teaching me how to mother, how to live, and that our lives are what we make of it-each and every moment.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
My Cartoon Network
OK, I have got to talk about the television, which takes me back a couple a months.
Friends of mine visited Portland from the east coast. It was great to see familiar faces. Coincidentally, her sister lives here for which I am thankful. During her and her daughters visit I had to become a little more acclimated with the city for her sister lives about 30 minutes from me on the NE side of town. I was able to get to her house (with some help) which actually felt liberating. This drive led me to my discussion about television.
You know, getting in a car for 30 minutes, driving aimlessly in a big city on a big highway in a direction with uncertainty can be challenging. And add to this three children in the car with you who can behave unpredictably. I know this is true for most children so don't get me wrong, it can be expected unless, of course, the children are "perfect" as mine are and yours too. ;)
So without a doubt, I turned on the car DVD player.
Now what you have to realize is in Oregon, it seems, this is sort of frowned upon. In fact, it seems that TV, in general, is not used very much. I have yet to see a car here with a DVD player. Good for them, right? Children should be outside exploring, playing or finding things on their own to do to entertain themselves. Don't get me wrong I find this to be a good thing but there are moments when I feel the need to use television in order to keep my sanity or just simply to calm things down a bit when I feel the house is completely out of order.
So, in the car, my thought was, "Hey, better to drive safely and be able to concentrate then take the chance that I may have to turn my body completely around to discipline a child, break up a fight, or reason with someone (which we all know is not the easiest to do with an almost 7 y.o, a 5 1/2, and 3 1/2 y.o.), or even worse, get so distracted by them that I run off the road, flip the car three times or run into some sort of wildlife which in Oregon does not seem to be all that far fetched".
Now one must be thinking that I am assuming that my children will act up. Oh no, that is not the case, well maybe. As a mother, I never know what will be dealt to me. We think we can predict it all. Why, because I am a mother. But, realistically, the way I think something is going to go may end up the opposite. So, for "safety reasons", a movie was played. They behaved beautifully and I enjoyed my coffee and drove safely. But then again we were on an adventure and usually the rides to "somewhere new" are good. It is the ride home but that is a whooole other discussion.
Now back to TV. In the home, I, of course, only put the TV on if I feel my children are going to soon be swinging from the light fixtures, break a bone, break something, eyes are about to get clawed out, if I am using the gas stove and the children are under my feet, or if the mommy is getting the urge to let loose on a child. I describe the television as a resource and yes, I do think it is a resource.
As a mother, I have patience. Actually, more than I thought I could ever have. It is amazing what I am able to endure. Children love you to death but at the same time somehow are able to beat up on you emotionally. A close friend of mine describes this to feel like little birdies pecking at your temple. I thought that was nicely put. It is not a feeling you enjoy but you can bare. Don't get me wrong, I have my irrational emotional moments where I feel I am literally losing my mind, but thankfully it is short lived.
I know the children do not mean to act this way. I do not ever feel like it is a deliberate thing. I remember they are only children. Children are learning how to respond to their surroundings, deal with their hardships, accept the word "no", and understand what is acceptable and what is not. However, I am who they feel most comfortable with and what better person to be emotional with, cry with, yell at, whine at, or simply loose control. I will not reject them for that is not my job. I am here to mold them, educate them, love them, hug them, talk to them, teach how to be rational, and keep them safe. The list can go on but I will stop there for I am sure you get my point. So "no" I do not think a little TV here and there is such a bad thing, despite what others think or what the media says. How goes the old saying "anything in moderation is ok".
I also find it to be comforting. The children will snuggle up, relax, and enjoy this time. Their little brains can veg out. They rest their bodies and get great pleasure out of the stories, as do most adults.
I always say do what works and what's best for you no matter what the situation is. Just don't forget to take the time to give your children the opportunity to do those things that help them to create, learn, make decisions, make mistakes, ask questions, get a little hurt through exploration (such as racing down a hill on a scooter crashing towards the bottom ending up with numerous scrapes, bumps, and bruises), and see things through their own eyes.
Friends of mine visited Portland from the east coast. It was great to see familiar faces. Coincidentally, her sister lives here for which I am thankful. During her and her daughters visit I had to become a little more acclimated with the city for her sister lives about 30 minutes from me on the NE side of town. I was able to get to her house (with some help) which actually felt liberating. This drive led me to my discussion about television.
You know, getting in a car for 30 minutes, driving aimlessly in a big city on a big highway in a direction with uncertainty can be challenging. And add to this three children in the car with you who can behave unpredictably. I know this is true for most children so don't get me wrong, it can be expected unless, of course, the children are "perfect" as mine are and yours too. ;)
So without a doubt, I turned on the car DVD player.
Now what you have to realize is in Oregon, it seems, this is sort of frowned upon. In fact, it seems that TV, in general, is not used very much. I have yet to see a car here with a DVD player. Good for them, right? Children should be outside exploring, playing or finding things on their own to do to entertain themselves. Don't get me wrong I find this to be a good thing but there are moments when I feel the need to use television in order to keep my sanity or just simply to calm things down a bit when I feel the house is completely out of order.
So, in the car, my thought was, "Hey, better to drive safely and be able to concentrate then take the chance that I may have to turn my body completely around to discipline a child, break up a fight, or reason with someone (which we all know is not the easiest to do with an almost 7 y.o, a 5 1/2, and 3 1/2 y.o.), or even worse, get so distracted by them that I run off the road, flip the car three times or run into some sort of wildlife which in Oregon does not seem to be all that far fetched".
Now one must be thinking that I am assuming that my children will act up. Oh no, that is not the case, well maybe. As a mother, I never know what will be dealt to me. We think we can predict it all. Why, because I am a mother. But, realistically, the way I think something is going to go may end up the opposite. So, for "safety reasons", a movie was played. They behaved beautifully and I enjoyed my coffee and drove safely. But then again we were on an adventure and usually the rides to "somewhere new" are good. It is the ride home but that is a whooole other discussion.
Now back to TV. In the home, I, of course, only put the TV on if I feel my children are going to soon be swinging from the light fixtures, break a bone, break something, eyes are about to get clawed out, if I am using the gas stove and the children are under my feet, or if the mommy is getting the urge to let loose on a child. I describe the television as a resource and yes, I do think it is a resource.
As a mother, I have patience. Actually, more than I thought I could ever have. It is amazing what I am able to endure. Children love you to death but at the same time somehow are able to beat up on you emotionally. A close friend of mine describes this to feel like little birdies pecking at your temple. I thought that was nicely put. It is not a feeling you enjoy but you can bare. Don't get me wrong, I have my irrational emotional moments where I feel I am literally losing my mind, but thankfully it is short lived.
I know the children do not mean to act this way. I do not ever feel like it is a deliberate thing. I remember they are only children. Children are learning how to respond to their surroundings, deal with their hardships, accept the word "no", and understand what is acceptable and what is not. However, I am who they feel most comfortable with and what better person to be emotional with, cry with, yell at, whine at, or simply loose control. I will not reject them for that is not my job. I am here to mold them, educate them, love them, hug them, talk to them, teach how to be rational, and keep them safe. The list can go on but I will stop there for I am sure you get my point. So "no" I do not think a little TV here and there is such a bad thing, despite what others think or what the media says. How goes the old saying "anything in moderation is ok".
I also find it to be comforting. The children will snuggle up, relax, and enjoy this time. Their little brains can veg out. They rest their bodies and get great pleasure out of the stories, as do most adults.
I always say do what works and what's best for you no matter what the situation is. Just don't forget to take the time to give your children the opportunity to do those things that help them to create, learn, make decisions, make mistakes, ask questions, get a little hurt through exploration (such as racing down a hill on a scooter crashing towards the bottom ending up with numerous scrapes, bumps, and bruises), and see things through their own eyes.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
The good ol' DMV
September 24th - Ok, so I am now down to the wire. My Florida tag expires in a matter of days. I have to study for the Oregon driving test so I can retake it with the hopes of not being humiliated again.
I decide, first, I need to go for a run - but instead I ran late and missed the group so I thought I would get on the bike for a while and force myself to read the driving manual. Ten minutes into it I was extremely bored and decided to try out a Kick Boxing class. Which I have to say was truly hilarious. I have not done an organized aerobic class in probably 10 years.
I went in the wrong direction, had others facing me when I was supposed to be turned around, had arms going in the wrong direction, legs flailing trying to keep up with the moves - nearly kicking my neighbors and tried to convince myself I was getting it. I just had to laugh knowing others could see how idiotic I looked through the windows. But you know, whatever! I actually had a decent workout and am willing to go back for more! One thing I have learned as I get older is you only look as foolish as you feel. Typically, you are not the only one trying it out for the first time and if you are -LAUGH AT YOURSELF- it actually feels refreshing.
Off to the DMV - after a shower, of course. I stopped at the Starbucks next store to get some caffeine in me to help with my need for alertness and improved concentration. I walked in the DMV and it was empty. Good sign - I thought. After I checked in (the new lady today was friendlier and even had a sense of humor) I asked if I could sit down and study. I was feeling pretty good. I was by myself at a table. Nice and quiet. I felt calm. Brought back memories of the college library. When...
I hear the woman call a number and no one answered and I thought, "how strange" so I looked up and made eye contact with a young woman (in her twenties). I got a wierd feeling in my stomach (as I often do right before something out of the ordinary happens). She looked a little strung out and a few seconds later she realized it was her number. She went up to the attendant and proceeded to get a tag. A question was asked of her for which she did not know the answer so she yelled out to the young man she was with. He proved to be not so nice.
He came right up to the counter and let the attendant have it. Not in your typical way such as "what am i missing or what is the problem?" He basically told her she was "white tr--- and did not know what the h--- she was doing and that she was a b----." Further asking her how she could not realize what the young girl had was the correct information. The young girl stepped away. He was asked to take an seat and calm down.
At that point I thought hmmmm "is he armed?" " Where could I go if I needed to hide since I chose an area to study furthest away from the door. The bathroom was my best bet.
He told the attendant he was not going to calm down since "he was not worked up" and yelled out to her "do you want to see the end of your work day?" I tensed up. She asks him to leave. His body language changed - very angry, fierce, agititated - Cleeeearly anger management issues!
Probably was in some anger management classes, history of mental health treatment, or had a probation officer. If not I thought he could use some sort of therapy/medication or should have a probation officer. Trying to make light of the situation I thought, I'll be the ARNP so "Let's assess this guy and the situation." Maybe Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Impulse Control Disorder, or some type of personality disorder (which would be the scariest scenario since that is the hardest to treat). Or just a criminal, although most criminals probably could be given a diagnosis.
He walked towards the attendant again (I, of course, never made eye contact with him) and he called her a "fu----- horror" and "useless c---". Not a young man with much manners but did make his point. He goes towards the door and still cannot pull himself together - yelling at her some more (other words you can imagine) and shoots her a nice bird.
So much for a calm environment. I start to wonder if he was going to come back with some sort of firearm and let loose on us. The attendant did follow him out to try to get his tag. I am not sure if she was able to for he spun off quickly. Well, he did have some sort of a brain so as to know he needed to get away quick. Such classy people in the world! Like he should be behind the wheel of a car.
This situation did shed some light on why the DMV employees (who clearly have training on how how to handle situations like this for they followed the steps right from the book) are not the most warm and fuzzy people and are cynical. It still does not mean I should be treated like the way I was treated last week or any of you, of course, unless you behave badly.
Long and short of it is, I passed my test, did not get shot, and looked cute in my photo. I did, however, ask if the photo came out "ok" before I walked away. Funny enough she says "Yes, I think it came out fine. You know you really have GREAT HAIR!" I just had to laugh.
I decide, first, I need to go for a run - but instead I ran late and missed the group so I thought I would get on the bike for a while and force myself to read the driving manual. Ten minutes into it I was extremely bored and decided to try out a Kick Boxing class. Which I have to say was truly hilarious. I have not done an organized aerobic class in probably 10 years.
I went in the wrong direction, had others facing me when I was supposed to be turned around, had arms going in the wrong direction, legs flailing trying to keep up with the moves - nearly kicking my neighbors and tried to convince myself I was getting it. I just had to laugh knowing others could see how idiotic I looked through the windows. But you know, whatever! I actually had a decent workout and am willing to go back for more! One thing I have learned as I get older is you only look as foolish as you feel. Typically, you are not the only one trying it out for the first time and if you are -LAUGH AT YOURSELF- it actually feels refreshing.
Off to the DMV - after a shower, of course. I stopped at the Starbucks next store to get some caffeine in me to help with my need for alertness and improved concentration. I walked in the DMV and it was empty. Good sign - I thought. After I checked in (the new lady today was friendlier and even had a sense of humor) I asked if I could sit down and study. I was feeling pretty good. I was by myself at a table. Nice and quiet. I felt calm. Brought back memories of the college library. When...
I hear the woman call a number and no one answered and I thought, "how strange" so I looked up and made eye contact with a young woman (in her twenties). I got a wierd feeling in my stomach (as I often do right before something out of the ordinary happens). She looked a little strung out and a few seconds later she realized it was her number. She went up to the attendant and proceeded to get a tag. A question was asked of her for which she did not know the answer so she yelled out to the young man she was with. He proved to be not so nice.
He came right up to the counter and let the attendant have it. Not in your typical way such as "what am i missing or what is the problem?" He basically told her she was "white tr--- and did not know what the h--- she was doing and that she was a b----." Further asking her how she could not realize what the young girl had was the correct information. The young girl stepped away. He was asked to take an seat and calm down.
At that point I thought hmmmm "is he armed?" " Where could I go if I needed to hide since I chose an area to study furthest away from the door. The bathroom was my best bet.
He told the attendant he was not going to calm down since "he was not worked up" and yelled out to her "do you want to see the end of your work day?" I tensed up. She asks him to leave. His body language changed - very angry, fierce, agititated - Cleeeearly anger management issues!
Probably was in some anger management classes, history of mental health treatment, or had a probation officer. If not I thought he could use some sort of therapy/medication or should have a probation officer. Trying to make light of the situation I thought, I'll be the ARNP so "Let's assess this guy and the situation." Maybe Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Impulse Control Disorder, or some type of personality disorder (which would be the scariest scenario since that is the hardest to treat). Or just a criminal, although most criminals probably could be given a diagnosis.
He walked towards the attendant again (I, of course, never made eye contact with him) and he called her a "fu----- horror" and "useless c---". Not a young man with much manners but did make his point. He goes towards the door and still cannot pull himself together - yelling at her some more (other words you can imagine) and shoots her a nice bird.
So much for a calm environment. I start to wonder if he was going to come back with some sort of firearm and let loose on us. The attendant did follow him out to try to get his tag. I am not sure if she was able to for he spun off quickly. Well, he did have some sort of a brain so as to know he needed to get away quick. Such classy people in the world! Like he should be behind the wheel of a car.
This situation did shed some light on why the DMV employees (who clearly have training on how how to handle situations like this for they followed the steps right from the book) are not the most warm and fuzzy people and are cynical. It still does not mean I should be treated like the way I was treated last week or any of you, of course, unless you behave badly.
Long and short of it is, I passed my test, did not get shot, and looked cute in my photo. I did, however, ask if the photo came out "ok" before I walked away. Funny enough she says "Yes, I think it came out fine. You know you really have GREAT HAIR!" I just had to laugh.
Friday, September 26, 2008
Bad Hair Day, Part 3
September 17, 2008, Part 3...Trying to regain my composure and improve my mood I headed to the FedEx store. I missed them yesterday when they tried to deliver my new cell phone. Once I got there, after having some difficulty finding it, the attendant tells me they do not have the phone because they try three times to deliver to the house. Since this was only the first attempt, they were going to try again. So I did not need to be there. No where on the paper they left on my door did it say that. Sooo I smile and gave the permission needed for them to deliver without me home.
I get back in the car and having not been rude, not yelled at anyone, not cried and just plain holding in all that emotion from the earlier part of my morning, I decided it was ok to let out a few tears and I did. I thought I would feel a lot better if I went for a run but the hairstylist suggested not to wash my hair for 24 hours (she gave me a conditioning treatment because my hair was so badly damaged). Later, I opted for an adult beverage.
Amazing, the things we deal with, the people we encounter, the frustrations we go through. I was telling my local friend (the one who teaches pole dancing and who runs with me) about my day and she says to me she can top that. She had just left the doctor to have her injured foot reassessed and he told her she had to be completely off it for 4 more weeks. I thought well that is worse and is much more difficult than dealing with the craziness I had in just a few hours.
So it is all relative. It still does not erase the fact that I still wanted to jump over the counter at that lady. However, I can look back, laugh, and (tomorrow) put on my running shoes. Bad days can help us to regain our composure, step back and look at the bigger picture. I guess that is what separates me from a sociopath. Thank God.
Sooo:
1. My hair will grow back - I still look cute
2. I will pass the test, get an Oregon tag and license and I guess evolve into an Oregonian (I still think I'll always be a Floridian) and
3. I did get my new pink Blackberry pearl and I will become proficient in using it. I will. I will. I will.
HAVE A GOOD DAY!!!!
My new phone.
I get back in the car and having not been rude, not yelled at anyone, not cried and just plain holding in all that emotion from the earlier part of my morning, I decided it was ok to let out a few tears and I did. I thought I would feel a lot better if I went for a run but the hairstylist suggested not to wash my hair for 24 hours (she gave me a conditioning treatment because my hair was so badly damaged). Later, I opted for an adult beverage.
Amazing, the things we deal with, the people we encounter, the frustrations we go through. I was telling my local friend (the one who teaches pole dancing and who runs with me) about my day and she says to me she can top that. She had just left the doctor to have her injured foot reassessed and he told her she had to be completely off it for 4 more weeks. I thought well that is worse and is much more difficult than dealing with the craziness I had in just a few hours.
So it is all relative. It still does not erase the fact that I still wanted to jump over the counter at that lady. However, I can look back, laugh, and (tomorrow) put on my running shoes. Bad days can help us to regain our composure, step back and look at the bigger picture. I guess that is what separates me from a sociopath. Thank God.
Sooo:
1. My hair will grow back - I still look cute
2. I will pass the test, get an Oregon tag and license and I guess evolve into an Oregonian (I still think I'll always be a Floridian) and
3. I did get my new pink Blackberry pearl and I will become proficient in using it. I will. I will. I will.
HAVE A GOOD DAY!!!!
My new phone.Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Bad Hair Day, Part 2
September 17th, Part 2...I drive to the DMV. Since my Fl tag expires at the end of this month I am having to get this done. I am really not emotionally ready to get rid of my Florida tag. It just makes things seem more permanent. I get there and take a number. It is not too crowded which I am glad about.
My number is quickly called. I go up to the lady sitting behind the counter. For some reason my anxiety level rises-probably because you had to bring tons of paperwork proving this and that and all I could think about was "she is going to tell me I forgot something". She flipped though this, that, and the other and she gets to my SS card and then looks at my birth certificate and questions my middle name change. I explain it is pretty common to make your middle name your maiden name but apparently not in her world. She says " I have to go get this approved" I think (keeping to myself of course) "whatever lady do what you need to do". Fortunately, the "head" lady tells her indeed that is fairly common.
She moves on to review the other stuff. Do you own you car? she asks. "Yes", I reply. "Then can you show me your title?" I think no where did it say to bring that along. I read what was needed 10 times since I had heard on the news what a pain this was. So I say "no" then she asks if I had my emissions report and again I say "no" thinking no one told me that was a requirement.
At this point I am feeling like such an idiot despite the fact that we all know "I CLEARLY am NOT". I was trying to remain calm so as to be able to get through the rest of this painful process. Sooo the next thing is to take the Oregon Drivers License test. At this point, I had not read the book but I was so at my wits end and I thought, "oh how hard can it be. I'll just take it and see what happens." So I am sure we can all guess the answer to that with my horrible anxiety that rears it's nasty head anytime I am tested. Yes, I failed!
So I have to get another number to go back up to one of these ever so pleasant women. I get to a different woman and she stridently asked why I was back up there-not in a low voice by any means. So I tell her "quietly" I failed. She then proceeds to repeat that in her same "not so low" voice. At that point, I try not to jump over the counter and strangle this woman who has bad hair color, is wearing an 80's outfit and has ridiculous fake nails. I was boiling thinking "yes, let's tell the whole room I failed" and now feeling as if all eyes are on me. I think, "you want to comment on my new hair cut while your thinking about how I failed the test, go right ahead". I did not want the stinkin' Oregon license (with a photo of my new hair) or tag anyway.
Trying to get past my emotions and hold on to my dignity. I change the subject asking where to go to get the emissions test done. She looks at me as if I have two heads so I look back at her and calmly and politely say I am from Florida and I would like some directions please. Really wanting to say "Listen lady how the heck would I know where this place is? I am from 3000 miles away, barely know my way around and that place would not be on the top of my list as something I would ever want to know. Got it." She gave me the directions but I was so embarrassed and worked up that I really did not hear a word she said so I asked where the bathroom was so as not to turn around to face all those behind me.
But then that was not such a good idea because I got to see my hair again which just upset me more.
I leave with my same Florida tag and Florida license. I will have to take this on another day.
To make myself feel better I decided to go to FedEx to get my new phone (the blackberry pearl). Yes, I will be more "connected" to the world. I "get it" now.
Stay tuned for the rest of my day...
My number is quickly called. I go up to the lady sitting behind the counter. For some reason my anxiety level rises-probably because you had to bring tons of paperwork proving this and that and all I could think about was "she is going to tell me I forgot something". She flipped though this, that, and the other and she gets to my SS card and then looks at my birth certificate and questions my middle name change. I explain it is pretty common to make your middle name your maiden name but apparently not in her world. She says " I have to go get this approved" I think (keeping to myself of course) "whatever lady do what you need to do". Fortunately, the "head" lady tells her indeed that is fairly common.
She moves on to review the other stuff. Do you own you car? she asks. "Yes", I reply. "Then can you show me your title?" I think no where did it say to bring that along. I read what was needed 10 times since I had heard on the news what a pain this was. So I say "no" then she asks if I had my emissions report and again I say "no" thinking no one told me that was a requirement.
At this point I am feeling like such an idiot despite the fact that we all know "I CLEARLY am NOT". I was trying to remain calm so as to be able to get through the rest of this painful process. Sooo the next thing is to take the Oregon Drivers License test. At this point, I had not read the book but I was so at my wits end and I thought, "oh how hard can it be. I'll just take it and see what happens." So I am sure we can all guess the answer to that with my horrible anxiety that rears it's nasty head anytime I am tested. Yes, I failed!
So I have to get another number to go back up to one of these ever so pleasant women. I get to a different woman and she stridently asked why I was back up there-not in a low voice by any means. So I tell her "quietly" I failed. She then proceeds to repeat that in her same "not so low" voice. At that point, I try not to jump over the counter and strangle this woman who has bad hair color, is wearing an 80's outfit and has ridiculous fake nails. I was boiling thinking "yes, let's tell the whole room I failed" and now feeling as if all eyes are on me. I think, "you want to comment on my new hair cut while your thinking about how I failed the test, go right ahead". I did not want the stinkin' Oregon license (with a photo of my new hair) or tag anyway.
Trying to get past my emotions and hold on to my dignity. I change the subject asking where to go to get the emissions test done. She looks at me as if I have two heads so I look back at her and calmly and politely say I am from Florida and I would like some directions please. Really wanting to say "Listen lady how the heck would I know where this place is? I am from 3000 miles away, barely know my way around and that place would not be on the top of my list as something I would ever want to know. Got it." She gave me the directions but I was so embarrassed and worked up that I really did not hear a word she said so I asked where the bathroom was so as not to turn around to face all those behind me.
But then that was not such a good idea because I got to see my hair again which just upset me more.
I leave with my same Florida tag and Florida license. I will have to take this on another day.
To make myself feel better I decided to go to FedEx to get my new phone (the blackberry pearl). Yes, I will be more "connected" to the world. I "get it" now.
Stay tuned for the rest of my day...
My Oregon DMV Specialist.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Bad Hair Day, Part 1
September 17, 2008-not a good hair day-literally. Soooo I have not had my hair cut since Tampa, which at this point means not since June. I had been putting it off because I had to find a new person after 10 years of the same person in Florida. Today, I take on that challenge.
I am referred to a very hip hair place in the Pearl District of Downtown Portland. I was a little nervous entrusting my hair to someone new but I thought "ok what the h--l, just do it already, girl your ends are hideous."
I am sitting in the hair stylists chair giving her the low down of my situation and she asks if I am opposed to cutting some length off, doing more layers and adding some "dimension" around my face. (I am thinking gosh that is a lot of suggestions-do I look that bad? HA HA, I actually thought I was looking pretty good.) Now mind you she shows me where she was talking about cutting the length up to and I thought "ok, not so bad, probably would make my face not look as long". She was attractive with good hair cut and color and seemed to know what she was doing so I just let her rip. But do they ever do exactly what they say they are going to do?? NO!
This place is so up to date that each stylist has an assistant so that she cuts and her assistant styles and she follows up. Needless to say 35 minutes later, after the assistant states "you took a lot off", did I realize the extent of the new "do" which involved a "pseudo bang" and lots of layers. I'm looking in the mirror-deep breath-not so bad. I say to myself "you needed a change, it can always grow back". However not real sure I liked it but knew it was a good cut-hip for an almost 38 year old (as of tomorrow) if I say so myself.
Plus I needed to go get an Oregon license (which not really sure I am ready for since I sooo love my Gator tag) so what better day than today to have a picture. The only other thought I had was "oh boy, the hubby is not going to like this" for as most of you know he is all about "all naturale"-long hair, no hair color, no make up, no added extras. "He looooooves me juuuust the way I am"-literally. So his comment was "it looks cute". Not quite sure what that meant. Most likely he liked it better longer. I was not so sure sure I liked it myself but too late now.
Sooooo next stop was to get the Oregon tag and license....(this escapade really added to my morning and I think it made me hate my hair even more). To be continued...
I am referred to a very hip hair place in the Pearl District of Downtown Portland. I was a little nervous entrusting my hair to someone new but I thought "ok what the h--l, just do it already, girl your ends are hideous."
I am sitting in the hair stylists chair giving her the low down of my situation and she asks if I am opposed to cutting some length off, doing more layers and adding some "dimension" around my face. (I am thinking gosh that is a lot of suggestions-do I look that bad? HA HA, I actually thought I was looking pretty good.) Now mind you she shows me where she was talking about cutting the length up to and I thought "ok, not so bad, probably would make my face not look as long". She was attractive with good hair cut and color and seemed to know what she was doing so I just let her rip. But do they ever do exactly what they say they are going to do?? NO!
This place is so up to date that each stylist has an assistant so that she cuts and her assistant styles and she follows up. Needless to say 35 minutes later, after the assistant states "you took a lot off", did I realize the extent of the new "do" which involved a "pseudo bang" and lots of layers. I'm looking in the mirror-deep breath-not so bad. I say to myself "you needed a change, it can always grow back". However not real sure I liked it but knew it was a good cut-hip for an almost 38 year old (as of tomorrow) if I say so myself.
Plus I needed to go get an Oregon license (which not really sure I am ready for since I sooo love my Gator tag) so what better day than today to have a picture. The only other thought I had was "oh boy, the hubby is not going to like this" for as most of you know he is all about "all naturale"-long hair, no hair color, no make up, no added extras. "He looooooves me juuuust the way I am"-literally. So his comment was "it looks cute". Not quite sure what that meant. Most likely he liked it better longer. I was not so sure sure I liked it myself but too late now.
Sooooo next stop was to get the Oregon tag and license....(this escapade really added to my morning and I think it made me hate my hair even more). To be continued...
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Stop and Smell the Flowers, Part II
Part I may be found here.
So I’ve decided to go back a little. It is hard to believe we have been here a little over a month. I think back to when we decided to move (clear across the country) thinking “I can do this”. Then it really happened. Not so sure I thought it would really occur. Sooo here I am. I really could not live any farther in the U.S. from my home town unless, of course, we decided to live in the ocean off the Oregon coast which as most of you know I could not do since I’d spend most of the time vomiting over the side of the yacht-which would not be what we’d be living on-for we do not have one of those and certainly a small fishing boat would not be up to my standards. My husband wishes I could sail around the world but unless they come up with some amazing cure for motion sickness I will stick to land. I will always be the driver. Who knows? I have thought of looking into acupuncture since it seems as though as I get older it only gets worse. But for now the most adventurous I see myself involves the move and all the things that have come with it.
I find this to be so surreal. I drive around thinking I see a friends car. Most often Stacy’s (a white Toyota Sequoia with dark tinted windows) or Kim (in an audi sedan). I often think I see someone I know at the gym, on the road, or at the grocery. But no, clearly not, for I am thousands of miles away from you. It happens so often that the other day after running group (after happening again) I had to mention it to Jennifer (the one who heads up the group) and we both just chuckled knowing the reality of it. People ask “so where are you from?” Florida, I say. Their response is “wow, you really are far away form home”. “Yes”, I say thinking thanks for reminding me. I think that if the people here were not so amazingly nice that I am not sure what my mental status would be.
Don’t get me wrong. There are moments when I think what the heck did we do this for? This experience has truly forced me to look within and look for parts of myself I never knew I was capable of using or even had available to me. I start up conversations with people I do not know almost anywhere. I sort of look at them and who they are with and assess what they could offer. Sometimes it is a quick, friendly discussion. But most often I am given a volume of information or invited to do something. It really is much more than I could have ever asked for.
I really think I will like it here but the best would have been to bring all my friends with me. I guess if that happened, it would have changed the whole dynamics of the move and my experiences. Oh well, a little selfishness on my part is ok. The children are really who have forced me to utilize all the resources I can find. Speaking of the children….
Wow, has the last 5 weeks been a challenge. Actually 6-7 weeks. Probably started just as we starting packing up the house but has really escalated. We all love our children and know they test us to points way beyond our imagination but there have been many moments where I swear “my children” are not with me. They have been taken over by the “Moving Monster”. Unbelievable!! You think “oh they are young this won’t be sooo bad” Wrong! Despite that, this is a much longer summer than what they are used to and they have decided to see how far they can push me. I have really been trying hard to accommodate them. Look for kids for them to meet, go places where other kids will be, do special things, etc. The ups and down of their moods has been so challenging. I understand and respect their feelings however patience and understanding can only be in someone for so long. I find myself trying to make sure they are “ok” and I do have many fleeting thoughts about when I will truly break down (thinking “what about me?”). However, those of us who are mothers know the “what about me” does not get answered as often. Yeah, yeah, yeah we are much stronger for it. Blah! Blah! Blah! But we all know how precious those moments are. It’s funny usually it’s simple stuff that fulfills those needs. Everyday has become a new day for me with the hopes to wake up with more strength than the day before.
The hardest part is the giving and feeling like there is no receiving i.e. “thank you mommy for taking us to the new park, new restaurant, to meet a new friend, have a picnic lunch”, etc. I have been doing the best I can do to make the transition go smoothly for them but clearly the record shows this move has been difficult for them. People have said “oh better now than later” which I do believe is true but “whew” what an interesting process this has been.
Let’s see. I broke down once so far (not real big just some tears-a quick cry) (a little voice inside my head always helps me to stay grounded reminding me of what really is important)-a couple of days ago. We had to really sit the children down and talk about some of the things we’ve seen that have made us unhappy. It was so funny because I really was past the point of anger for I think the anger had been used up. I am not sure anger is the right word but perhaps disappointment. Anyway, after all was said and done I became tearful which I rarely do in front of them but I really could not keep it dry. So I asked my husband to take them to bed and just sat down and had a quick cry. I am not sure it was because of my extreme disappointment in them or the move itself. Obviously, both. I went and sat down for a few minutes and regrouped. I, then, decided to walk upstairs to help with bedtime. As I was walking up the stairs I heard my oldest son say to him “Mommy never cries” and my husband's response (if I heard correctly) “that is because your mommy is very strong”. I try!
We all love our children, their innocence, their beauty, their frankness, their fearlessness, their ability to try new things, their ability to love, their ability to test those limits, how they explore, how they see things, seeing them develop into the person they will become. I love to watch them see something for the first time, try something for the first time, get frustrated, accomplish something they had not been able to before, look into their eyes and see myself, and most of all to sit by them when they are sleep and admire their peacefulness. Oh, the joy they bring. No matter how hard a day may be I can’t imagine my life without them. Raising children is truly the hardest thing I have ever done. Realistically I know it will only get more challenging. This is harder than college, graduate school, finding the man of my dreams or moving clear across the country. I will continue to take each day as it comes, enjoy the rewards, get through the frustrations, take time for myself and with my husband and “stop and smell the flowers!”
I know you moms can relate.
So I’ve decided to go back a little. It is hard to believe we have been here a little over a month. I think back to when we decided to move (clear across the country) thinking “I can do this”. Then it really happened. Not so sure I thought it would really occur. Sooo here I am. I really could not live any farther in the U.S. from my home town unless, of course, we decided to live in the ocean off the Oregon coast which as most of you know I could not do since I’d spend most of the time vomiting over the side of the yacht-which would not be what we’d be living on-for we do not have one of those and certainly a small fishing boat would not be up to my standards. My husband wishes I could sail around the world but unless they come up with some amazing cure for motion sickness I will stick to land. I will always be the driver. Who knows? I have thought of looking into acupuncture since it seems as though as I get older it only gets worse. But for now the most adventurous I see myself involves the move and all the things that have come with it.
I find this to be so surreal. I drive around thinking I see a friends car. Most often Stacy’s (a white Toyota Sequoia with dark tinted windows) or Kim (in an audi sedan). I often think I see someone I know at the gym, on the road, or at the grocery. But no, clearly not, for I am thousands of miles away from you. It happens so often that the other day after running group (after happening again) I had to mention it to Jennifer (the one who heads up the group) and we both just chuckled knowing the reality of it. People ask “so where are you from?” Florida, I say. Their response is “wow, you really are far away form home”. “Yes”, I say thinking thanks for reminding me. I think that if the people here were not so amazingly nice that I am not sure what my mental status would be.
Don’t get me wrong. There are moments when I think what the heck did we do this for? This experience has truly forced me to look within and look for parts of myself I never knew I was capable of using or even had available to me. I start up conversations with people I do not know almost anywhere. I sort of look at them and who they are with and assess what they could offer. Sometimes it is a quick, friendly discussion. But most often I am given a volume of information or invited to do something. It really is much more than I could have ever asked for.
I really think I will like it here but the best would have been to bring all my friends with me. I guess if that happened, it would have changed the whole dynamics of the move and my experiences. Oh well, a little selfishness on my part is ok. The children are really who have forced me to utilize all the resources I can find. Speaking of the children….
Wow, has the last 5 weeks been a challenge. Actually 6-7 weeks. Probably started just as we starting packing up the house but has really escalated. We all love our children and know they test us to points way beyond our imagination but there have been many moments where I swear “my children” are not with me. They have been taken over by the “Moving Monster”. Unbelievable!! You think “oh they are young this won’t be sooo bad” Wrong! Despite that, this is a much longer summer than what they are used to and they have decided to see how far they can push me. I have really been trying hard to accommodate them. Look for kids for them to meet, go places where other kids will be, do special things, etc. The ups and down of their moods has been so challenging. I understand and respect their feelings however patience and understanding can only be in someone for so long. I find myself trying to make sure they are “ok” and I do have many fleeting thoughts about when I will truly break down (thinking “what about me?”). However, those of us who are mothers know the “what about me” does not get answered as often. Yeah, yeah, yeah we are much stronger for it. Blah! Blah! Blah! But we all know how precious those moments are. It’s funny usually it’s simple stuff that fulfills those needs. Everyday has become a new day for me with the hopes to wake up with more strength than the day before.
The hardest part is the giving and feeling like there is no receiving i.e. “thank you mommy for taking us to the new park, new restaurant, to meet a new friend, have a picnic lunch”, etc. I have been doing the best I can do to make the transition go smoothly for them but clearly the record shows this move has been difficult for them. People have said “oh better now than later” which I do believe is true but “whew” what an interesting process this has been.
Let’s see. I broke down once so far (not real big just some tears-a quick cry) (a little voice inside my head always helps me to stay grounded reminding me of what really is important)-a couple of days ago. We had to really sit the children down and talk about some of the things we’ve seen that have made us unhappy. It was so funny because I really was past the point of anger for I think the anger had been used up. I am not sure anger is the right word but perhaps disappointment. Anyway, after all was said and done I became tearful which I rarely do in front of them but I really could not keep it dry. So I asked my husband to take them to bed and just sat down and had a quick cry. I am not sure it was because of my extreme disappointment in them or the move itself. Obviously, both. I went and sat down for a few minutes and regrouped. I, then, decided to walk upstairs to help with bedtime. As I was walking up the stairs I heard my oldest son say to him “Mommy never cries” and my husband's response (if I heard correctly) “that is because your mommy is very strong”. I try!
We all love our children, their innocence, their beauty, their frankness, their fearlessness, their ability to try new things, their ability to love, their ability to test those limits, how they explore, how they see things, seeing them develop into the person they will become. I love to watch them see something for the first time, try something for the first time, get frustrated, accomplish something they had not been able to before, look into their eyes and see myself, and most of all to sit by them when they are sleep and admire their peacefulness. Oh, the joy they bring. No matter how hard a day may be I can’t imagine my life without them. Raising children is truly the hardest thing I have ever done. Realistically I know it will only get more challenging. This is harder than college, graduate school, finding the man of my dreams or moving clear across the country. I will continue to take each day as it comes, enjoy the rewards, get through the frustrations, take time for myself and with my husband and “stop and smell the flowers!”
I know you moms can relate.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Stop and Smell the Flowers
(Originally written July 29, 2008)
Sorry sooo long since last update. Been very busy. No time to sit. Things going well. About two weeks ago I had a rough day but didn’t last to long. Really was antsy to get cars. Finally got and feel more settled but then I thought oh @#$% this is for real WE are here for good. Kind of thought I was on some long vacation in a really nice house, nice neighborhood, surrounded by exceptionally nice people. Kind of like I was in the movie Edward scissorhands. Anyway, been really enjoying the gym I told you about. It is actually hilarious-the set up. It has valet service for the mom’s which I think is good but really I think it is because in the winter the rain is such a pain in the you know what, but for now I’ll see it as some great luxury. I am still doing the running group which is totally kicking my booty. These girls are in such great shape and there is no jogging. I am running. Up hills, down hills, forwards, backwards, up bleachers, down bleachers, over highways, through neighborhoods, off to grandmas house we go. Ha ha.
I am meeting all sorts of women. I have put my foot down, however, and do not run over 4-5. I recently hooked up with one girl, very laid back, has 3 kids, lives not too far, friendly and helpful and funny enough she teaches pole dancing, yes, that is what I said. Sooo here I am jogging along side and thinking how do I ask her, w/o sounding too judgmental, because I was not, “so why do you do this? With comic relief her answer was really good exercise and it is a way for women to just let lose. So as I was thinking “don’t think it is something I could do (although paul would get a kick out it) who knows-couldn’t you see me now? A couple of days later, with a chuckle, she gave me her card. Ha ha. But good thing is her mother is a very good seamstress so I do have that going for me. Sooo today I decided to do a sports conditioning class that the running leader convinced me to try so I’m thinking workout stations..blah blah. Oh no, the first 15 minutes was some sort of basketball game then stations with running/toning then the last 15 minutes was a hockey game. Yes that’s what I said so yes I played basketball and hockey. I am sure you can only imagine that. Needless to say being fit is big here and we could not be at a better gym that is is sooo family oriented. The kids enjoyed the rock climbing camp.
So there is Bryant Woods near us. A place to walk through with a path, if you call it that. Soooo we decide to go. A little girl goes with us with her baby sitter-next thing I know K and A are sucking on some purple flower and yes I freak out. But the little girl says “oh its ok it is honeysuckle” and I am thinking “yeah so my kids are gonna die” then she says “you can suck on it and it is sweet”. Babysitter confirmed, but after about the fifth one I put the stops to it thinking “ok, who knows with my luck one of non-natured kids will have some sort of anaphylactic reaction”. Sooo then K decides to randomly put other things in mouth-go figure. So the saying goes “stop and smell the flower” but let’s not eat them. The things we have done here have really allowed me to slow down a little and watch kids and enjoy seeing new things through their eyes. Good thing that came out of the woods is a babysitter “Kayla” who I have used 2 times now. Age 17 and very responsible-lives 4 houses down.
So I have been told there are coyotes that have been in people’s backyards recently. Greaaaat, I think something to look forward to especially when paul is gone because you that is when it will happen to me. Speaking of animal, we were outside a couple of days ago at the bottom of our street and Dylan is running down to us and from the top of the street comes a deer running right behind Dylan- you should have seen Dylan’s face when we told him to look behind him-too funny for words. There are many deer. The same eve Kyra wants to walk down the street to see a friend and as we are walking we see a small snake –she thinks it is cool. I am about to pee my pants for I had had enough animal excitement but instead I keep a tough upper chin and say “oooh yeah so cool” as she then asks to pick it and I quickly say no and ask to move on.
Three other funny things then I will continue later. I go to pump my gas having great difficulty getting it to work-realizing at last minute-oh yeah cannot pump own gas in Portland, it is full serve everywhere so feeling like total idiot plus ran risk of huge fine I quickly get back in to my car and take the dirty look I received from the attendant-will not do that again.
Sooooo few days before I had bad sinus headache-no problem-go get my handy dandy awesome claritinD, that has a little kick to it, but could not find so the norm thing to do is ask pharmacist who looked at me in a horrified way as if I was some criminal who was drug seeking-which clearly not-even though the stuff works great-or was I?? anyway, I was definitively told that is not over the counter!! Feeling 1 inch tall I settled for Sudafed non-drowsy.
One last thing. I am driving down the road and up ahead I see a woman in a leotard-OK I think to myself-people do not really wear those much anymore, but who knows the 80’s are coming back and then she turned around and it was a thong leotard over tights I had to bust out laughing and then I thought oh boy where am I? so I had to ask my neighbor if that was common here she said “absolutely not!” I thought “thank god.” She is training for a marathon and is a mother of 4 and works full time as a nike exec for children’s apparel. She is very nice and we seem to have a lot in common. She has even offered me, which hope to use soon, a nike employee coupon for the employee store which gives me 50% off any nike item. You know that made my day. I hear since addidas and nike corporate offices are here there is no need to pay full price for any of that stuff. The employee stores are huge with the same items in the retail stores. Score!!!! I love nike apparel, as you all know. By the way the latest thing, if you did not already know, is running skirts, so I will be getting some of those. Gotta look cute while running.
Oh, for safety sake, I hope I did not offend any of you that may still wear the leotard??
To be continued,
Sorry sooo long since last update. Been very busy. No time to sit. Things going well. About two weeks ago I had a rough day but didn’t last to long. Really was antsy to get cars. Finally got and feel more settled but then I thought oh @#$% this is for real WE are here for good. Kind of thought I was on some long vacation in a really nice house, nice neighborhood, surrounded by exceptionally nice people. Kind of like I was in the movie Edward scissorhands. Anyway, been really enjoying the gym I told you about. It is actually hilarious-the set up. It has valet service for the mom’s which I think is good but really I think it is because in the winter the rain is such a pain in the you know what, but for now I’ll see it as some great luxury. I am still doing the running group which is totally kicking my booty. These girls are in such great shape and there is no jogging. I am running. Up hills, down hills, forwards, backwards, up bleachers, down bleachers, over highways, through neighborhoods, off to grandmas house we go. Ha ha.
I am meeting all sorts of women. I have put my foot down, however, and do not run over 4-5. I recently hooked up with one girl, very laid back, has 3 kids, lives not too far, friendly and helpful and funny enough she teaches pole dancing, yes, that is what I said. Sooo here I am jogging along side and thinking how do I ask her, w/o sounding too judgmental, because I was not, “so why do you do this? With comic relief her answer was really good exercise and it is a way for women to just let lose. So as I was thinking “don’t think it is something I could do (although paul would get a kick out it) who knows-couldn’t you see me now? A couple of days later, with a chuckle, she gave me her card. Ha ha. But good thing is her mother is a very good seamstress so I do have that going for me. Sooo today I decided to do a sports conditioning class that the running leader convinced me to try so I’m thinking workout stations..blah blah. Oh no, the first 15 minutes was some sort of basketball game then stations with running/toning then the last 15 minutes was a hockey game. Yes that’s what I said so yes I played basketball and hockey. I am sure you can only imagine that. Needless to say being fit is big here and we could not be at a better gym that is is sooo family oriented. The kids enjoyed the rock climbing camp.
So there is Bryant Woods near us. A place to walk through with a path, if you call it that. Soooo we decide to go. A little girl goes with us with her baby sitter-next thing I know K and A are sucking on some purple flower and yes I freak out. But the little girl says “oh its ok it is honeysuckle” and I am thinking “yeah so my kids are gonna die” then she says “you can suck on it and it is sweet”. Babysitter confirmed, but after about the fifth one I put the stops to it thinking “ok, who knows with my luck one of non-natured kids will have some sort of anaphylactic reaction”. Sooo then K decides to randomly put other things in mouth-go figure. So the saying goes “stop and smell the flower” but let’s not eat them. The things we have done here have really allowed me to slow down a little and watch kids and enjoy seeing new things through their eyes. Good thing that came out of the woods is a babysitter “Kayla” who I have used 2 times now. Age 17 and very responsible-lives 4 houses down.
So I have been told there are coyotes that have been in people’s backyards recently. Greaaaat, I think something to look forward to especially when paul is gone because you that is when it will happen to me. Speaking of animal, we were outside a couple of days ago at the bottom of our street and Dylan is running down to us and from the top of the street comes a deer running right behind Dylan- you should have seen Dylan’s face when we told him to look behind him-too funny for words. There are many deer. The same eve Kyra wants to walk down the street to see a friend and as we are walking we see a small snake –she thinks it is cool. I am about to pee my pants for I had had enough animal excitement but instead I keep a tough upper chin and say “oooh yeah so cool” as she then asks to pick it and I quickly say no and ask to move on.
Three other funny things then I will continue later. I go to pump my gas having great difficulty getting it to work-realizing at last minute-oh yeah cannot pump own gas in Portland, it is full serve everywhere so feeling like total idiot plus ran risk of huge fine I quickly get back in to my car and take the dirty look I received from the attendant-will not do that again.
Sooooo few days before I had bad sinus headache-no problem-go get my handy dandy awesome claritinD, that has a little kick to it, but could not find so the norm thing to do is ask pharmacist who looked at me in a horrified way as if I was some criminal who was drug seeking-which clearly not-even though the stuff works great-or was I?? anyway, I was definitively told that is not over the counter!! Feeling 1 inch tall I settled for Sudafed non-drowsy.
One last thing. I am driving down the road and up ahead I see a woman in a leotard-OK I think to myself-people do not really wear those much anymore, but who knows the 80’s are coming back and then she turned around and it was a thong leotard over tights I had to bust out laughing and then I thought oh boy where am I? so I had to ask my neighbor if that was common here she said “absolutely not!” I thought “thank god.” She is training for a marathon and is a mother of 4 and works full time as a nike exec for children’s apparel. She is very nice and we seem to have a lot in common. She has even offered me, which hope to use soon, a nike employee coupon for the employee store which gives me 50% off any nike item. You know that made my day. I hear since addidas and nike corporate offices are here there is no need to pay full price for any of that stuff. The employee stores are huge with the same items in the retail stores. Score!!!! I love nike apparel, as you all know. By the way the latest thing, if you did not already know, is running skirts, so I will be getting some of those. Gotta look cute while running.
Oh, for safety sake, I hope I did not offend any of you that may still wear the leotard??
To be continued,
Grocery Store Heaven
(Originally written July 14, 2008)
My oh my am I in grocery store heaven. Between whole foods, trader joe’s and the local farmers market I could not be having more fun. I have yet to venture into one of the stores alone but hopefully soon. Trader Joe’s was probably the most interesting grocery I have seen. So far the things we purchased there have been very good and so easy to prepare. I really can not wait to go into the stores alone. Pretty pathetic that my excitement has succumb to that but honestly it has aside from trying to find a local sitter and venture into city.
This past weekend we took the children to the water falls. It was great fun. We actually walked up to the top which was one mile up a pretty steep narrow path. Actually scary in a way but the children were insistent. The deciding factor on if we got to the top was how far Dylan could walk. He walked the whole way up. We had many breaks needless to say for water and power snacks. No bathrooms but we ran into some real hikers who gave us some t.p. which was handy at the top for the eldest for as you know boys have no problem behind trees.
At the top there were “swim pools” where the kids could wade or dip feet. Veeery cold. We did not have on wet/dry shoes so difficult to wade because sooo slippery so, of course, the children were a little ticked off about that. There is always a next time. The parents are learning as we go along.
Was a good adventurous weekend to say the least. We have kind of promised ourselves that we would try to do one thing each weekend, through the summer.
I think this weekend we are going to drive to the coast. Should be interesting. The weather continues to be spectacular. Very curious about the weather. I am sure I will be bitching about that. The trick I hear are weekend getaways which I hear you do not have to drive very far to see the sun. Thank God.
Oh, one more thing, the view of Mt. Hood and St. Helen were amazing on our way to the falls. No, really next summer you have to try to visit. I will getmy feet wet this summer so next summer I will have some ideas for what to do. Right now I do not know my north from my south.
Oh, today you would be proud. I met up with a running group at the gym. It is organized. My neighbor happen to be one of the runners as well so that made things a little easier but I was laughing because I just followed the group and had to run and run and run because I could not divert since I truly did not know where the hell I was and knew if I wimped out I could never find my way back(good thing there was a lot of nature to look at). Then thank God one girl decided today was her short run day so I went with her. Needless to say 5 miles later I was back. Thought I was going to die since I really had only exercised 2 days in the last 20. Buuut, you know me I will go back for more on Wednesday.
The kids have been pretty busy this week. They (2 older ones) are doing a rock climbing camp indoors in the a.m. and really love it. I, on the other hand, am afraid of heights which was sort of a problem going up to the top of the falls but you know how it is as a mom we have to become SUPER. Soo even though I felt like I was going to fly away and held my child's hand as if I was helping them they were actually keeping me on the ground. Pretty comical if I say so my self. Needless to say Paul may have to be in charge of the rock climbing thing.
Ok, enough.
I have to go watch the Closer and Saving Grace which started back up tonight.
My oh my am I in grocery store heaven. Between whole foods, trader joe’s and the local farmers market I could not be having more fun. I have yet to venture into one of the stores alone but hopefully soon. Trader Joe’s was probably the most interesting grocery I have seen. So far the things we purchased there have been very good and so easy to prepare. I really can not wait to go into the stores alone. Pretty pathetic that my excitement has succumb to that but honestly it has aside from trying to find a local sitter and venture into city.
This past weekend we took the children to the water falls. It was great fun. We actually walked up to the top which was one mile up a pretty steep narrow path. Actually scary in a way but the children were insistent. The deciding factor on if we got to the top was how far Dylan could walk. He walked the whole way up. We had many breaks needless to say for water and power snacks. No bathrooms but we ran into some real hikers who gave us some t.p. which was handy at the top for the eldest for as you know boys have no problem behind trees.
At the top there were “swim pools” where the kids could wade or dip feet. Veeery cold. We did not have on wet/dry shoes so difficult to wade because sooo slippery so, of course, the children were a little ticked off about that. There is always a next time. The parents are learning as we go along.
Was a good adventurous weekend to say the least. We have kind of promised ourselves that we would try to do one thing each weekend, through the summer.
I think this weekend we are going to drive to the coast. Should be interesting. The weather continues to be spectacular. Very curious about the weather. I am sure I will be bitching about that. The trick I hear are weekend getaways which I hear you do not have to drive very far to see the sun. Thank God.
Oh, one more thing, the view of Mt. Hood and St. Helen were amazing on our way to the falls. No, really next summer you have to try to visit. I will getmy feet wet this summer so next summer I will have some ideas for what to do. Right now I do not know my north from my south.
Oh, today you would be proud. I met up with a running group at the gym. It is organized. My neighbor happen to be one of the runners as well so that made things a little easier but I was laughing because I just followed the group and had to run and run and run because I could not divert since I truly did not know where the hell I was and knew if I wimped out I could never find my way back(good thing there was a lot of nature to look at). Then thank God one girl decided today was her short run day so I went with her. Needless to say 5 miles later I was back. Thought I was going to die since I really had only exercised 2 days in the last 20. Buuut, you know me I will go back for more on Wednesday.
The kids have been pretty busy this week. They (2 older ones) are doing a rock climbing camp indoors in the a.m. and really love it. I, on the other hand, am afraid of heights which was sort of a problem going up to the top of the falls but you know how it is as a mom we have to become SUPER. Soo even though I felt like I was going to fly away and held my child's hand as if I was helping them they were actually keeping me on the ground. Pretty comical if I say so my self. Needless to say Paul may have to be in charge of the rock climbing thing.
Ok, enough.
I have to go watch the Closer and Saving Grace which started back up tonight.
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