tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50963915250598093102024-03-07T01:25:09.316-05:00I Found It InterestingA place for my musings on life, motherhood, cooking, reading, and all other interesting things.Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03443129246882833018noreply@blogger.comBlogger507125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096391525059809310.post-41013299590212423792014-05-29T22:27:00.000-04:002014-05-29T22:27:21.054-04:00Roots of mintOn the windowsill sits a small glass jar that recently held peppercorns. I keep it there for the heartfelt plant offerings the boys carry inside with them from the yard. Lamb's ear is always represented (it's soft like you Mommy). Bright yellow flowers often make an appearance, too (I know they are weeds Mommy, but they are so beautiful). Chive blossoms sometimes show up (it's pretty and you can eat it because you like the taste Mommy). I kiss the sweaty heads and thank the boys for thinking of me.<br />
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One day a sprig of mint made its way into the jar. I'm not sure who put it there, but when I looked a few days later I noticed it had sprouted roots. I admire mint's ability to make a home wherever it is placed. I imagine it spreading out a few tenacious roots and thinking, yep, this spot will do just fine. Mint isn't going to wait around for the perfect paint color or new couch to complete a certain look. Mint just sets about the business of making a space a home. With no fuss it spreads roots and starts growing.<br />
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I could learn a lot from mint. The past year has been one of constant of change - new house, new baby and adjusting to being a family of five. Change has always left me feeling unsettled and rootless. We still have boxes in the garage and basement that are yet to be unpacked. Most of our walls are unadorned and large sections of our new to us house seem temporary simply because we haven't had the time to make them our own. In this way I have not been like mint. I have waited for the perfect time to get started on making our house a home instead of just digging in right away.<br />
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In other ways, though, we've been very mint-like. Only one (small) wall of our house may be painted, but we have made many memories in our new space. Mornings of crafting. Afternoons of puzzle building and Lego guy playing. Walks around the new neighborhood looking for wormies on rainy days. Plus we have begun planting our outdoor space and gardening always helps establish roots (literally and figuratively of course).<br />
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So with each small reminder of a rooted life that comes through my back door and lands in the little jar, I remember the mint and how it is at home wherever it lands. I reflect on the little hands thrusting fistfuls of plants at me and realize this is the home we are all creating together. This simple little jar on the windowsill contains roots that run deep. <br />
Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03443129246882833018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096391525059809310.post-63112931381222747542013-06-06T09:58:00.000-04:002013-06-06T09:58:02.691-04:00Catching up - Leo is now 17 months!Since I've last updated, things have been very busy for our little Leo:<br />
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<li>He got his first haircut. He wasn't totally sure about this and cried most of the way through it. It took me a few days to recognize him without this baby wispy hair.</li>
<li>He took his first steps one Friday night. Then he spent several weeks mostly crawling, but doing some walking too. Now he is mostly walking. He's been very proud of this accomplishment. We are too! Milo is still amazed each time Leo walks a long distance. </li>
<li>Leo still loves animals and bugs now too. Whenever we see a dog he excitedly yells DOG and really hopes to pet it. He also loves being outside for any reason, but especially to play in the sand box, dirt or grass. Leo spends a lot of time entertaining himself with sticks and pebbles and other little treasures he finds along the way. </li>
<li>I went away for a few days and used that opportunity to cut out our last nursing session. Leo wasn't quite ready for that and has refused to sleep in his crib since that time. So he takes naps and sleeps full time in our bed. </li>
<li>We've found out that Leo is no longer going to be the youngest kiddo, but instead will be an older brother to a baby due in November! <br />
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Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03443129246882833018noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096391525059809310.post-80198836095487640922013-03-22T14:50:00.001-04:002013-03-22T14:50:35.259-04:00Check it Off the List<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8JEzU8zQzjrwuRMppDH1CPw5WJWoqngowuO_WxLz2IRGlzn0CwgWPNRHQ3EnDonkB5tm2DF-Ayx3LQRocCTAgHdedkVOcIEiauDD0l_55PtGIuqQ2ZYz3nRMsMwSGClibX9dXdNzm-Uk9/s1600/IMG_2905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8JEzU8zQzjrwuRMppDH1CPw5WJWoqngowuO_WxLz2IRGlzn0CwgWPNRHQ3EnDonkB5tm2DF-Ayx3LQRocCTAgHdedkVOcIEiauDD0l_55PtGIuqQ2ZYz3nRMsMwSGClibX9dXdNzm-Uk9/s320/IMG_2905.jpg" width="320" /></a>Just in the nick of time earlier this week as the calendar indicated winter was leaving and spring was beginning, we checked off the last of our Winter Fun List. You wouldn't know it by the super cold temps and occasional snow flurries around here, but it is officially Spring so we were excited to finish our Winter list with a trip to the ice skating rink. Milo did great on the ice for the first time! Leo had to stay in the stroller although he kept putting his feet out wondering when he would get skates, too. <br />
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It was a fun afternoon of exercise, a few falls and lots of smiles.<br />
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Now we are on the Spring list and hoping the weather cooperates soon!<br />
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<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03443129246882833018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096391525059809310.post-76058488860960024042013-03-03T11:02:00.000-05:002013-03-09T11:02:25.474-05:00Leo - 14 Months<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcWdk0J5_h5RAWJkeIHNuwLPedgd54_8acuRyD6O_o4DuddQsiDHPVNYRdJJTWbsUZPuy9rr5552-ivDXvfg48QEFV3okfY2oMZysumt6gWRtFgKmuOyYFCO5k1rXjH_RyBXucSGCkjAmH/s1600/IMG_2584.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcWdk0J5_h5RAWJkeIHNuwLPedgd54_8acuRyD6O_o4DuddQsiDHPVNYRdJJTWbsUZPuy9rr5552-ivDXvfg48QEFV3okfY2oMZysumt6gWRtFgKmuOyYFCO5k1rXjH_RyBXucSGCkjAmH/s320/IMG_2584.jpg" width="320" /></a>I recently told someone that Leo is really growing into his toddlerhood. By this I meant he has been quite a handful recently - he has accidentally flipped himself off the side of the couch, he has stuffed graham crackers in the detergent area of the dishwasher and he is still enthralled with anything and everything he can throw. It's busy keeping up with the little guy and he's not even walking yet. <br />
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Thankfully, Leo does have some fine points, too. He still gives the best and most heartfelt hugs. His belly laughs fill up the room with joy. Even Milo has been won over by Leo's charms (although he will often yell trouble is on the double when Leo is heading his way). The two boys like to play cars together and Leo makes a vroom vroom noise that Milo is very proud of him for. <br />
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We added a fish to our family (Swimmy the Beta) and Leo loves to watch him swim and eat his food. Each morning he wants to wave to Swimmy and spend some time watching. Leo is also always excited to see and pet dogs or cats on our walk. He seems to really like animals. Although we have offered several stuffed friends, Leo hasn't settled on one lovey (other than a stuffed snake he intermittently steals from Milo and carries around).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjIt8oGbHeMXJ4Khf0pyr3iUFzjEEN2a3Rz1FVwLC7VR85kFkyR-TH3bxUL752qhHEe7gcRd2WuOTKPm3m2L5-a0vSrbuazhv5cR5t5zvfi4tg-N9Cj99fDDOpaxMgTWyWx3E3UBfaow04/s1600/IMG_2587.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjIt8oGbHeMXJ4Khf0pyr3iUFzjEEN2a3Rz1FVwLC7VR85kFkyR-TH3bxUL752qhHEe7gcRd2WuOTKPm3m2L5-a0vSrbuazhv5cR5t5zvfi4tg-N9Cj99fDDOpaxMgTWyWx3E3UBfaow04/s320/IMG_2587.jpg" width="320" /></a>For the past few months, we've been going to gymnastics on Friday mornings. Technically the class is for Milo, but Leo gets to join in too. He loves it! He crawls all over the big gym and up and over mats. He gets me to help him hang onto a bar and then I tell him how strong he is. He loves the singing and claps along during circle time. At the end of class he is intently watches the parachute moving up and down. This week I let him out of the baby carrier for parachute time and he was able to join the other kiddos crawling around on the brightly colored fabric. He had a huge smile on his face the whole time and Milo watched out to make sure the other kids didn't step him. It was fun to watch!<br />
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I can't believe how quickly Leo is growing up and also how much like a baby he seems. It is clear Leo would like to be talking - he is constantly babbling and trying to repeat words. He gets his needs across to us through pointing and grunting, but I know he has so much more to say. And I can't wait to hear what is going on in that sweet (and stubborn) little head of his.<br />
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<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03443129246882833018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096391525059809310.post-17224846131622742972013-02-25T22:11:00.001-05:002013-02-25T22:11:18.648-05:00A Year Back, A Year Ahead and a Reminder of NowA blog I often read for mom advice and other information, too, today asked what is different about your life from this time last year and what do you hope to be different at this time next year. I hope it's not a copout to say I can't even remember this time last year. Leo was not quite two months old and Milo was beginning to give up his afternoon nap. If I had to guess I was a very tired Mama. And where tiredness starts, cranky often is right there along for the ride. <div>
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This year I am still tired, but not so soul-crushingly so. Plus it was sunny today so while I had moments of cranky, they didn't stick around along. The boys and I made a house for bugs out of bark we found outside. We were able to breathe some fresh air and use our imaginations. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhToBUHWLSGKjKJYWZZsmVHmfIAkOyGQD2p9qPZglucZH4aD9uE4npQIYNPeDdLWy9dqfv0sdtDTwUdAzbH67r0uHbjVNfiAFYw4qIDTDCcHZqT-15gEDO0NHTry0qsQg0SLO3IlFaCcJb_/s1600/IMG_2300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhToBUHWLSGKjKJYWZZsmVHmfIAkOyGQD2p9qPZglucZH4aD9uE4npQIYNPeDdLWy9dqfv0sdtDTwUdAzbH67r0uHbjVNfiAFYw4qIDTDCcHZqT-15gEDO0NHTry0qsQg0SLO3IlFaCcJb_/s320/IMG_2300.jpg" width="320" /></a>Next year at this time I hope to do more of that and more remembering of it all. This life often seems like a blur of days and dinners and getting out the door and sweeping the floor. I'm trying to stay more present. To remember to stay in the moment and not get caught up in the details. </div>
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It seems like a buzzword and so very of this time and yet the idea of appreciating the small things of life, of accepting and embracing each moment as it happens is so very timeless. So I will briefly look back and briefly look forward, but I also want to stay grounded in the here and the now. </div>
Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03443129246882833018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096391525059809310.post-42380630205253916422013-02-21T20:54:00.002-05:002013-02-21T20:54:42.741-05:00It's FebruaryThis is the time of year when winter in Ohio is no longer fun and the drudgery sets in. Playing in the snow has lost its luster. The beauty of snowflakes becomes hard to find after seeing so many of them. Most of all though, I miss the sun and spending time outside. Of course on somewhat warm days when the sun is shining we play outdoors. Quick trips to the playgrounds and late afternoon with the sandbox open sustain our need for fresh air.<br />
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I've tried to create some interesting games and experiences while we've been playing inside. We have played many many rounds of hide and seek (Milo tends to the hide in the same spot each time). Today the boys had a lot of fun having rides in a laundry basket. Overall though we are watching way too much television and it is starting to wear on all of us just a bit. <br />
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February is the time of lingering colds and cabin fever. Luckily it is almost over. Tonight at dinner we talked about what we were looking forward to in the spring: walks, parks and splash pools and Popsicles It's really just around the corner.<br />
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<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03443129246882833018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096391525059809310.post-40663760665649142552013-02-03T21:41:00.000-05:002013-02-05T21:41:39.795-05:00Leo - 13 Months<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtwqyjH8hMPgQbFOzMHNFB6YdTWXZx4LqB0ePIgAtDLmngyp4U6RyFUXeTBgnfCZozHPXq37_a-1XQqtx8OdzWGDSazeB5DGa-bH0MPWurezETIJia1tKkwyfkZJO1KAe7Dt2zB9qp0Wpa/s1600/IMG_2148.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtwqyjH8hMPgQbFOzMHNFB6YdTWXZx4LqB0ePIgAtDLmngyp4U6RyFUXeTBgnfCZozHPXq37_a-1XQqtx8OdzWGDSazeB5DGa-bH0MPWurezETIJia1tKkwyfkZJO1KAe7Dt2zB9qp0Wpa/s320/IMG_2148.jpg" width="213" /></a>This has been a busy month for our little one-year-old. Leo has morphed from a baby into a sweet and lovable, albeit mischievous toddler. He can make it all the way up the stairs and thinks it is super funny to do so. He can purposefully only go down four or five steps at a time though. So the math doesn't really work out on that one and we watch him carefully. <br />
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Other favorite mischievous behaviors: pressing the menu buttons on the television while Milo is watching it, unplugging the computer and emptying drawers of clothing. He also loves to throw things (food, sippy cups, books) just to watch them fall. <br />
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Leo also now gives high fives! I love this. He also has a word/sound associated with each high five: bah! Speaking of words, Leo has a few he used regularly, but is now trying to repeat many other words. This morning he said "buh bye dudee" to Chris as he was leaving. It was super sweet. <br />
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Leo is a sweet little guy. As he is playing throughout the day he will often crawl over and give us a hug. He is also cuddly If there is a blanket or pillow on the ground, Leo will crawl over to it and throw himself on down for a quick soft cuddle. He kicks his feet when he is happy and exciting and this is definitely a kick-worthy occasion <br />
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<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03443129246882833018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096391525059809310.post-30658233641561459912013-02-01T12:54:00.001-05:002013-02-01T12:54:30.634-05:00Each Day is DifferentYesterday I gazed out the back window at the falling snow. My eyes rested on the white dusted sandbox. It was only two days before we had been out there playing in the sand and basking in the relative warmth of a 55 degree day in late January. <br />
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<img height="320" src="http://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/76366_10200297946438698_674001446_n.jpg" width="320" />Today is much different. The snow covers the ground and a virus has hit our house. Milo, typically in constant movement, has been sent to the couch by a fever and congestion. I am getting over a cold and Leo has a cough. I am hoping all the germs stay with their respective person. <br />
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Last weekend we had wonderful days full of family breakfasts, sledding, birthday parties and lots of laughter. This weekend looks like it might shape of slightly differently. Such is life with small children in the middle of cold and flu season. <br />
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<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03443129246882833018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096391525059809310.post-17255400206803634852013-01-24T21:35:00.001-05:002013-01-24T21:35:24.543-05:00Thursday Ramblings (Nice)It's been cold. Toe freezing cold. The only place I want to be is under the covers. Sadly, the children don't see the genius in this plan and insist on playing. Which means I am often sitting on our cold floors. We could all use some run around outside time. That would be nice.<br />
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There is sometimes a moment in the evenings when I am sipping wine, making an interesting salad and listening to the Jack Johnson station on Pandora when all of a sudden the guise of being a stay-at-home mom slips away and I remember being someone else. The reminder is nice.<br />
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We have some super silly little boys living with us. They laugh and dance and tackle and feel things so deeply. One sings and the other bops his head along. One laughs and the other laughs louder. It's nice to hear.<br />
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We talk a lot about good and bad choices. About bad guys and nice people. We read books and watch shows and tells stories and Milo always wants to know who is nice. I try to point out the nice things he does rather than focus on the not so nice. Lately there have been so many not so nice behaviors that need to be corrected. I try to remember to accentuate the positive. It always feels nice to have the people we love notice the good we are trying to do. Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03443129246882833018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096391525059809310.post-49898416251862965152013-01-15T14:29:00.002-05:002013-01-15T14:29:14.138-05:00Leo's First Book<a href="http://images-community.shutterfly.com/prs/v1/0AZsmTlu5ZN2Qg/3a88e12b-5f1f-11e2-af01-6f55acdccda3/p/67b0de21b3127cae65ee/JPEG/1358277421000/0/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images-community.shutterfly.com/prs/v1/0AZsmTlu5ZN2Qg/3a88e12b-5f1f-11e2-af01-6f55acdccda3/p/67b0de21b3127cae65ee/JPEG/1358277421000/0/" /></a>Using the blog posts and pictures from here over the past twelve months, I just created a baby book of sorts using <a href="https://www.shutterfly.com/" target="_blank">Shutterfly</a>. <a href="http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=0AZsmTlu5ZN2T1g&cid=SFLYOCWIDGET" target="_blank">Take a look</a>! I have these books from Milo's pictures, too, and we all enjoy looking back through them. The changes of the first year are especially fun to see month to month. I'm not a scrap-booker (all that cutting of straight lines isn't for me), but this is a special way for me to preserve memories of my boys growing up.<br />
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Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03443129246882833018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096391525059809310.post-83849031063942813562013-01-14T10:50:00.000-05:002013-01-14T10:50:05.729-05:00Back to ItAfter the loveliness of Christmas with our family, <a href="http://amygirl312.blogspot.com/2013/01/leos-first-birthday-in-pictures.html" target="_blank">Leo's birthday</a> and <a href="http://amygirl312.blogspot.com/2013/01/my-birthday_6.html" target="_blank">my birthday</a> we were almost all celebrated out and ready to get back to our more usual routine. Plans didn't quite work out that way though because Chris had a conference to attend out of town. I had the boys for two nights on my own. I am proud to say I survived and also found a refreshed respect of single parents. <br />
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<img height="112" src="http://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/543878_4612965439317_116251318_n.jpg" width="200" />To cap off the fun winter season, the boys and I joined Chris in Sandusky for one night and two super fun days at <a href="http://www.greatwolf.com/sandusky/waterpark" target="_blank">Great Wolf Lodge</a>. I wasn't sure if our boys would fully enjoy the water park and hotel, but oh my did they ever. We all had a wonderful time splashing, sliding, kicking and turning into little prunes. Both boys loved the water and all the sprayers, pools and fountains in the water park. Milo also really liked the onsite arcade where (with a little help from the kind employees) he won a Space Angry Bird. We all enjoyed story time with the talking tree and exploring the resort. Every detail at Great Wolf is set up in mind for families with young children - our waitress at dinner went out of her way to locate a fruit cup for Leo (okay, so there could be healthier food options) and every other employee we encountered was also helpful. Best of all, it was a sweet time of reconnecting with our little family in the midst of a busy season of life. I can't wait to go back!<br />
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It's time for back to reality though - back to the gym, back to cleaning the house, back to eating good for us foods at home. Less special events, fewer cookies with every meal. More scheduled naps. And just as much love to share.<br />
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<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03443129246882833018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096391525059809310.post-16934881892653173302013-01-06T22:32:00.001-05:002013-01-06T22:32:32.355-05:00My Birthday<br />
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Leo wasn't the only one who had a big birthday lately. I turned 35(!) on January 1. While I am okay with aging (as if there is any choice), this birthday being so mid-lifeish did throw me for a bit of a loop. I can't say I am in my thirties anymore. Since I still seem to think of myself as being 27, this is a bit of a surprise. However, I love my life and where I am at in it. With that in mind, I chose to celebrate the day and maybe push my boundaries a little. Just like when <a href="http://amygirl312.blogspot.com/2008/01/yes-in-case-you-wondering-it-is-cold-to.html" target="_blank">I turned 30</a> I signed up to run a 5k. Chris was a sport and signed up, too and then surprisingly after mentioning it on Facebook three other friends decided to do it as well. This made the morning so fun! </div>
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My parents took the boys for the day (and they had a wonderful day) while Chris and I headed downtown for the race. We knew it would be cold for the race but the path was also snowy and icy. This made the run a little slower and more treacherous than planned. It was so icy the organizers actually shortened the course to be 2.6 miles rather than 3.2. I didn't realize this at the time and was a little disappointed when I did learn this later. I was thinking I had a rock star (for me) time of finishing in 32 minutes. In reality, the time was so great because we didn't do a half mile of the course. Regardless, I am proud of myself for doing the race and it is still an accomplishment. Plus a great way to start off the new year!<br />
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After the race we headed out for a long brunch complete with a few adult beverages. Being out with friends, Chris and my brother in the middle of the afternoon with no children around was such a treat! We then headed back to my parents to continue the celebration with the traditional pork, sauerkraut and cupcakes.<br />
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It was a fantastic day. I don't think I could have asked for more: family, friends, good health, fun exercise, good food and many many laughs and hugs. With a start like this 2013 and 35 is going to be a great year! <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="320" src="http://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/148951_4550822125773_1268570181_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="180" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me crossing the finish line</td></tr>
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Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03443129246882833018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096391525059809310.post-37457066668895192452013-01-04T09:54:00.002-05:002013-01-04T09:54:58.909-05:00Leo - 12 Months<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiflZVKPmdgp7Zroyi_Q2Z6gWPMCc48SrdTLjF21SJIxCUVQoXI8D6RuDr6-yVEFIhJizurjdfG7Hgllaw_K6o6_7F6DCvaYqaGS9pUIo2oEJj_20rh-1Iff2NUZGg7bo_G6oWohtHkJ9N1/s1600/IMG_1680.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiflZVKPmdgp7Zroyi_Q2Z6gWPMCc48SrdTLjF21SJIxCUVQoXI8D6RuDr6-yVEFIhJizurjdfG7Hgllaw_K6o6_7F6DCvaYqaGS9pUIo2oEJj_20rh-1Iff2NUZGg7bo_G6oWohtHkJ9N1/s320/IMG_1680.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
Somewhere along the way over the past 12 months, Leo has turned from a sweet sleeping baby into a cuddly energetic toddler. Nobody is as surprised by this as I am. I was showing Milo the pictures we took at the hospital last year - of the tiny, red faced, worn out from birth little guy. Neither of us were quite sure it was actually Leo. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKY1p0ckkdCq4Q647JeUtxK8m1QyDZxWnZJC1-BXOTezvIZvgkOtHvhj8WgJK6yu2hRSbheGchTs5X6a0boH0498tvxb5IqoKGW8FN1uSd6_m9J7aSmuBjT5OL6SMVEHbK9hkOPkIUtHml/s1600/IMG_1671.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKY1p0ckkdCq4Q647JeUtxK8m1QyDZxWnZJC1-BXOTezvIZvgkOtHvhj8WgJK6yu2hRSbheGchTs5X6a0boH0498tvxb5IqoKGW8FN1uSd6_m9J7aSmuBjT5OL6SMVEHbK9hkOPkIUtHml/s320/IMG_1671.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Leo who is now a super fast crawler and a pretty good cruiser. Leo who now shows his excitement by kicking his little legs. He is often excited. Leo loves balloons, dogs, cats, toys, reading books and his people. Oh how this sweet boy loves his people. He gives the best hugs complete with resting his little head squarely on the shoulder of the huggee. <br />
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We've heard him say a few words here and there - banana, book, mama, dada - but he mainly communicates by pointing, grunting and shrieking. <br />
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It's not all fun and hugs around here though, Leo is still not sleeping through the night and his nap schedule is all over the place. He also shows absolute no interest in weaning. So there are a few challenges ahead. <br />
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<span style="background-color: white; clear: right; color: black; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">Before we tackle those issues, though we had a lovely time celebrating Leo's first birthday. The day started with a balloon hanging outside his door (this is also the best tradition ever!), which was met with shrieks of delight and lots of playing by both kiddos. We had oatmeal and bananas for breakfast (favorite foods of Leo) and the played. That was followed by several hours of trying to nap and finally actually napping. Later in the day friends came over for playing and cupcakes. Leo was so happy to see his friends and then also to see Uncle Tony who came over for dinner. We finished the day with taking pictures, hugs and books. A perfect way to celebrate our 1 year old! </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWX0YQAOLGO4k_EDCQscKo9iFMjk_53a83i8IKQ1SajM9iLyQkx5RgJvQDYo8weGar55WGBrgBQoYXB5luV7rVnxJVB-AZxh0Ie9CrJmoW26HRhW8zZ62sGDWNcRWuKb1UunxkEqSIFxVn/s1600/IMG_1698.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWX0YQAOLGO4k_EDCQscKo9iFMjk_53a83i8IKQ1SajM9iLyQkx5RgJvQDYo8weGar55WGBrgBQoYXB5luV7rVnxJVB-AZxh0Ie9CrJmoW26HRhW8zZ62sGDWNcRWuKb1UunxkEqSIFxVn/s1600/IMG_1698.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWX0YQAOLGO4k_EDCQscKo9iFMjk_53a83i8IKQ1SajM9iLyQkx5RgJvQDYo8weGar55WGBrgBQoYXB5luV7rVnxJVB-AZxh0Ie9CrJmoW26HRhW8zZ62sGDWNcRWuKb1UunxkEqSIFxVn/s320/IMG_1698.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWX0YQAOLGO4k_EDCQscKo9iFMjk_53a83i8IKQ1SajM9iLyQkx5RgJvQDYo8weGar55WGBrgBQoYXB5luV7rVnxJVB-AZxh0Ie9CrJmoW26HRhW8zZ62sGDWNcRWuKb1UunxkEqSIFxVn/s1600/IMG_1698.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><u></u></a>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03443129246882833018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096391525059809310.post-87773165579216507302013-01-03T10:02:00.000-05:002013-01-04T10:02:43.752-05:00Leo's First Birthday in Pictures<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkjT0p2HPqEUkqHXYtygqcdwXrUSFug8APWm9tXLupls3ZRZJ13Eh5TYpZFtzRggQvd5Bm0oaGiHsB153xWP6dvRjnJhZCn5Qd6l5PpF4P6I_AFqW82ENW6WfbBbEt2zxyZMp0qPQCnNkx/s1600/IMG_1561.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkjT0p2HPqEUkqHXYtygqcdwXrUSFug8APWm9tXLupls3ZRZJ13Eh5TYpZFtzRggQvd5Bm0oaGiHsB153xWP6dvRjnJhZCn5Qd6l5PpF4P6I_AFqW82ENW6WfbBbEt2zxyZMp0qPQCnNkx/s320/IMG_1561.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03443129246882833018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096391525059809310.post-86389645684131197292013-01-02T15:02:00.001-05:002013-01-02T15:02:17.472-05:002013 IntentionsI've been <a href="http://amygirl312.blogspot.com/2010/01/resolution-time-looking-ahead.html" target="_blank">hit or miss</a> over the <a href="http://amygirl312.blogspot.com/2009/01/and-here-it-is2009.html" target="_blank">past</a> <a href="http://amygirl312.blogspot.com/2011/01/2011-goals.html" target="_blank">several years</a> of making resolutions in the new year and then seeing those changes through. It seems like I keep going back to the same resolutions, but don't see those through (clutter, less yelling, more exercise). Still, I think this is a valuable exercise to make these goals and set intentions. So on New Year's Eve after the kids were in bed, Chris and I opened a bottle of cheap bubbly and sat down with a notepad to come up with this list:<br />
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<u>2013 Intentions</u><br />
Move? (OMG)<br />
Continue to learn more about our camera and take better pictures<br />
Keep working out a weekly part of both of our lives<br />
Listen more, yell less / be more understanding / show more patience<br />
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On my personal list are these additional items:<br />
Spend more meaningful time online, but less overall time (be more active and less passive)<br />
Get back to the mat (again)<br />
<a href="http://amygirl312.blogspot.com/2012/01/new-year.html" target="_blank">And again with the clutter</a>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03443129246882833018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096391525059809310.post-71672596084444522252012-12-31T15:57:00.003-05:002012-12-31T16:02:50.176-05:00Favorite Pictures of 2012This is our second full year with a DSLR and we are still getting the hang of it. Still we have learned enough to get some treasured images. Here are my favorites from the year that was mostly <a href="http://amygirl312.blogspot.com/2012/12/2012-blur.html" target="_blank">a blur</a>.<br />
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<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03443129246882833018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096391525059809310.post-34875372638975552572012-12-31T15:36:00.002-05:002012-12-31T16:00:43.747-05:002012: A BlurWhen the biggest event of a year -<a href="http://amygirl312.blogspot.com/2012/01/leo-is-here.html" target="_blank"> in this case the birth of a child</a> - happens in the first three days of the new year, it pretty much guarantees the rest of the year will be a blur. <b><i>A large, wonderful, fantastic, exhausting blur.</i></b><br />
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Even if I didn't know in my bones, I can tell the first several months of the year were both a blur and a challenge. Blogging here became almost non-existent. I am thankful to read the little snippets of life I did manage to record, because oh man some amazing things happened. We played in creeks, we visited fairs, we sang songs, we ate yummy and healthy food. <br />
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Milo confronted a lot of fears and I am proud of the silly and strong boy he is becoming. He took his first steps of independence and <a href="http://amygirl312.blogspot.com/2012/10/preschool-days.html" target="_blank">started preschool</a>. While I still don't have many details of what he does there throughout the day, he loves it and is always eager to go. He can write his name and draw recognizable pictures. This year he has been challenged as a big brother and shown himself to be kind and loving (most of the time). When I start to lose it and have moments of doubt, it is often Milo who brings me back around. He'll use the words I give him so often: Mommy, we are problem-solvers, we just need to try again, in this family we use love and respect for self and others. I love him for those sweet-voiced pep talks.<br />
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Leo has been the kiddo with the most changes this year. At this time last year he wasn't even his own person and now he certainly is. He's my giggly, loving little cuddle bug. He has learned to crawl and pull himself to stand. He has endeared us all with his smiles and wild hair. <br />
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<b><i>These two little people kept us busy this year. </i></b> Other projects simply took a backseat to raising our family. Our garden started off promising, but languished mid-season. House projects have been put on indefinite hiatus. Chris was doing great with a workout routine in the mornings for a few months, but then the holidays hit. I've snuck in yoga where I can and tried to train for a 5k. <br />
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Overall 2012 was just as I said: a blur. Almost like a long awaited day where you look back and can't pinpoint actual moments, but you have an overall feeling for the day. <i><b>I can't recall the details, but recalling 2012 to me feels like a warm hug from my husband, a little boy's hand in mine, and a tiny body in my arms. </b></i> I'm not sure I need the particulars when I have those sensations.<br />
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<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03443129246882833018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096391525059809310.post-77380003855540168422012-12-29T14:23:00.002-05:002012-12-31T16:00:12.441-05:00A Cold WalkI had forgotten that, for me, <a href="http://amygirl312.blogspot.com/2008/03/lift.html" target="_blank">having scraggly eyebrows is a cue to enter a deep depression.</a> Well, as deep of a depression as bushy eyebrows can be. This morning I called my salon asking to be squeezed in for a haircut and eyebrow arch. No go. I begged for just the eyebrows. 30 minutes later I was walking up our snow covered street. I was the first person to walk on the sidewalks. Pure snow stretched in front of me and only my footprints were behind me. It was quiet with just the sound of crunching snow keeping me company. <a href="http://instagram.com/p/T1CwTDjjRf/" target="_blank"> A cat had passed through before me and left the most perfect print. </a><br />
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It was a magical morning. Both the quiet and eyebrow shaping were much needed.Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03443129246882833018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096391525059809310.post-12192039020366889172012-12-11T21:19:00.001-05:002012-12-11T21:20:01.398-05:00Christmas Calmer<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl1nVUm71hyphenhyphend8PNiIyarE2XF6IUy0-995cH32Hg9mw_gvZtX7hBFNag03zZv2CVNGpGwKBEftWBdpolJ4-OuB-lD-T9K6NHyNyvVkUiMMqYAIgFqRHYceSOzv87qmuD1AoAj5AGQX3GNoQ/s1600/IMG_0988.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl1nVUm71hyphenhyphend8PNiIyarE2XF6IUy0-995cH32Hg9mw_gvZtX7hBFNag03zZv2CVNGpGwKBEftWBdpolJ4-OuB-lD-T9K6NHyNyvVkUiMMqYAIgFqRHYceSOzv87qmuD1AoAj5AGQX3GNoQ/s320/IMG_0988.jpg" width="320" /></a>Let's face it: Christmas may be the most wonderful time of the year, but it can also be stressful. <br />
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The stress, of course, isn't only for the grownups. Kiddos feel it too. Their routines are a little changed and they also pick up on the adult edginess. With all the excitement of Christmas - seeing Santa, buying presents, decorating the tree, seeing twinkly lights - also comes a few moments of over stimulation And that's not even considering the sometimes late nights. Or the yummy treats. Overstimulated kids are about as fun to be around as a lost Wise Man wandering through the desert. <br />
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To combat a little of this stress, today we made what I am calling the Christmas Calmer. Basically it is a <a href="http://truebluemeandyou.tumblr.com/post/13690745116/diy-meditation-jar-great-gift-put-a-great" target="_blank">meditation jar</a> with a <a href="http://www.teachpreschool.org/2012/12/a-pine-needle-in-a-bottle/" target="_blank">Christmas theme</a>. <br />
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<b>Christmas Calmer Directions</b><br />
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<ol>
<li>Gather materials. You'll need a plastic bottle with the label removed, glitter and/or confetti and a hot glue gun. If you want to make the jar move more slowly you'll also need clear glue (see step 5 for more ideas). </li>
<li>Head to the backyard and find a pine bough. This is a good time to talk about evergreen trees and notice the difference in needles. In just our backyard we found four different varieties of evergreens!</li>
<li>Stuff the pine branch into the bottle. </li>
<li>Add a few teaspoons of glitter. We also added star confetti for more sparkle and visual interest. </li>
<li>If adding glue add it now. You'll need almost the whole bottle of glue to make it slow down. You could alternately use glycerin or liquid soap. I didn't have any of these things on hand, so we skipped this step. </li>
<li>Fill the bottle with water. </li>
<li>Use hot glue gun to secure the lid. </li>
<li>Hand to your child and let him know if he is ever feeling a little overwhelmed he can get his bottle, shake it and watch the glitter settle until he calms down. </li>
</ol>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnrAZtoojM0soFZEYYdzSKWNQxRRXZtCkA8GEbXE2ETUR-3AOydY1Gf9aYWnFCSvIPaZbYSrF4dbnjIiXq45qSeHXEAHA_j_K1BNEEYKVq8OC0W7LaoybN6sYPdDTyz1EpBJB0zceAPrYP/s1600/IMG_0965.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnrAZtoojM0soFZEYYdzSKWNQxRRXZtCkA8GEbXE2ETUR-3AOydY1Gf9aYWnFCSvIPaZbYSrF4dbnjIiXq45qSeHXEAHA_j_K1BNEEYKVq8OC0W7LaoybN6sYPdDTyz1EpBJB0zceAPrYP/s320/IMG_0965.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a>This has been a huge hit at our house. Milo has been asking for his Christmas Calmer. Leo loves watching the glitter, too. Even I enjoy shaking it and just relaxing as I breathe and enjoy the season. </div>
Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03443129246882833018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096391525059809310.post-14060713656921979002012-12-03T10:27:00.000-05:002012-12-11T10:28:18.015-05:00Leo - 11 Months<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjsyKDOfewaPxftuA4BEqfBy-ZYhGCGaVIjyhyphenhyphenXgbOBu17MNuVdNIwBMZlg06lS8kWUDO0xJqq7HTUQwUYgSxS_FDG4k7qS-OsCK4QJ_rk0FICt_fpUCirR-MTQlJrUgGhVKUmrTSE0Vxe/s1600/IMG_0920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjsyKDOfewaPxftuA4BEqfBy-ZYhGCGaVIjyhyphenhyphenXgbOBu17MNuVdNIwBMZlg06lS8kWUDO0xJqq7HTUQwUYgSxS_FDG4k7qS-OsCK4QJ_rk0FICt_fpUCirR-MTQlJrUgGhVKUmrTSE0Vxe/s320/IMG_0920.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet sweet boy at 11 months.</td></tr>
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Leo or Beco, as Milo is now calling him, is charging straight ahead toward being 1 next month. He is also frequently trying to charge headfirst down the basement stairs where we are constantly dragging him away from the tumble of doom. He thinks this is quite funny. He also thinks peek a boo is super duper funny. If you happen to start a game of peek with him you had better set aside some time because it can go on for a bit. His laughs and giggles and huge grins are the best part of the game - he really thinks we don't where he is for a bit. <br />
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In addition to his antics, Leo has also been a bit of a handful. He does not appreciate being put down and will wail whenever that happens. His favorite place to be is holding onto Mommy's hair with his head wedged between my jaw and shoulder. Daddy's arms are his next favorite place. And after that it is back to either crying or pointing in awe at the Christmas lights. I suspect this is either a normal developmental phase or a few other teeth are joining the six he already has. So we are trying our best to grin and bare this time and as an added bonus we are getting an ongoing arm workout as we hold our almost 23 pound boy. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd9h0TNP4y8p1N4hnsf9xSwEJhziSIHXNCnOj7pOdkga5JtOvmFiebPc-y89NEngO9e2Ty2y2blCOT3dH9qY7KSfvLgglKBrl3L-nrAm3JKsqPnX_B0lnzAavUZMoFLGffXKGjxfN6B5DM/s1600/IMG_0934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd9h0TNP4y8p1N4hnsf9xSwEJhziSIHXNCnOj7pOdkga5JtOvmFiebPc-y89NEngO9e2Ty2y2blCOT3dH9qY7KSfvLgglKBrl3L-nrAm3JKsqPnX_B0lnzAavUZMoFLGffXKGjxfN6B5DM/s320/IMG_0934.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leo enjoys to and can roll his tongue in crazy ways.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The day before Leo turned 11 months he was baptized at our church. It was a lovely day - Leo mostly slept through Mass before the baptism and then was quite interested when the priest anointed him with oil. He was less thrilled with the water being poured over his head and then he totally over the whole thing by the time pictures came around. He did perk up quite a bit for the party afterwards as he entertained us all by enthusiastically eating his mac and cheese and celebration cake. Overall it was a memorable day of love, family, friends and reaffirming our faith.<br />
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<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03443129246882833018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096391525059809310.post-29235476655620784512012-11-30T10:04:00.001-05:002012-12-12T20:15:41.161-05:00Thankful ListThroughout November I've been working on mindfulness and gratitude. I recall recent research that suggests the most happy people are also the most thankful. In no particular order of importance, here is a list of some of the things for which I am thankful.<br />
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></b>
<b id="internal-source-marker_0.0803615152835846" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">November Thankful List</span></b><br />
<b id="internal-source-marker_0.0803615152835846" style="font-weight: normal;"></b><br />
<ol style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b id="internal-source-marker_0.0803615152835846" style="font-weight: normal;">
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sunny days for walking to get Milo from preschool</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Cuddle time in bed with a baby</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Family Saturday mornings with pumpkin pancakes</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Walks in the woods and throwing rocks into a river</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Baby giggles and little boy kisses</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Voting for the best ideas to lead our country forward</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Running under a pink sky</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">My loving husband </span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">My parents</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The smell of coffee</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sunday night dinners</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The imagination and innocence of a three-year-old</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">My good health along with that of my husband and kiddos</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">My brothers who love my kids</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The nice parks in our neighborhood</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The sleepy sounds of snoozing boys</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Alone time</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The relationship developing between Milo and Leo which I hope lasts a lifetime</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Friends who keep me sane</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Chris’ job which allows me to stay home and be a full time mom</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dessert</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A wide abundance of healthy food to nurture the bodies of those I love</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Good books to transport me to other places and introduce new ideas</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A strong marriage</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The twinkle and shine of Christmas lights</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Flannel sheets and soft blankies</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Muffins</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Internet for its ability to connect</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Flexibility in body and mind - the ability to change course when needed</span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">All of it - the good, even some of the bad, the mundane and spectacular</span></li>
</b></ol>
<b id="internal-source-marker_0.0803615152835846" style="font-weight: normal;">
</b>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03443129246882833018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096391525059809310.post-71543813237785227612012-11-29T20:45:00.003-05:002012-11-29T20:46:25.936-05:00Keep Moving<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV7xjmN2vmIEnV3PqBiPJCs-Mr15eqODOj_JjP8mRFUBUoAHFMvvPRxZ6NS88Y1cK9YieRihOMTqkwqZlVQQxygjnD3qxJ2CIElJohMWf3YdigzMOKt0ZdtTOGTUNSCwUJUPXwFKXFgaXi/s1600/IMG_7431.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV7xjmN2vmIEnV3PqBiPJCs-Mr15eqODOj_JjP8mRFUBUoAHFMvvPRxZ6NS88Y1cK9YieRihOMTqkwqZlVQQxygjnD3qxJ2CIElJohMWf3YdigzMOKt0ZdtTOGTUNSCwUJUPXwFKXFgaXi/s320/IMG_7431.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Goals are meant to be met and fears tackled - whether they be frog or blog related.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
At the beginning of the month when I said I would post each day, I wasn't sure how it would go. I undertook this task as a way to breathe life back into this blog, to recommit myself to it and to improve my writing skills. I am proud to say that I did post each day - even if there were several days where I changed the dates of posts to make this possible. I am not proud to say I don't think I much improved my writing skills. Many of the posts were rushed. Several of the posts were phoned in. A few of the posts were even somewhat incoherent. <br />
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So, yes, I completed my goal of posting each day for a month and that's great, but I also am feeling I didn't meet the spirit of the goal. I do find I like writing here (although I think my Mom and brother - hi guys! - are the main audience) and <b>will continue to use this space to update on the boys, work out my thoughts and possibly tackle some writing type prompts.</b> <br />
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Also? I'm rather glad November is over. I'll commit to weekly posts from here on out, but daily is just too much for me right now. Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03443129246882833018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096391525059809310.post-90239090400462876792012-11-28T11:53:00.000-05:002012-11-29T11:53:29.757-05:00PeopleAs rewarding as it is to stay home with kiddos, there is also a truth that it can be isolating. After so many hours of only talking to children, I can sometimes feel myself going a bit batty. It's as though one more whiny request will totally send me over the edge. When this happens I find the best thing to do is get out and see other people. <br />
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I have my treasured group of Mama friends. We've been together since Milo was just a wee one and it's been so wonderful to see the kids grow as friends. The Mamas, too, have grown in friendships and it's these women I depend on to keep me going at times. We chat online, we meet at parks, we invite one another into our homes for play dates and once a month or so we meet for drinks sans children. Milo and I both count this group as some of our favorite people. <br />
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Today, in a bit of a departure from our usual routine, we went to local coffee shop and saw some of my former co-workers. I had almost forgotten about the part of employment where you see the same people everyday, work in close quarters and get to know their good and bad sides. It was such a treat to see a couple of these folks, catch up and remember this. <br />
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People need people, after all.Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03443129246882833018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096391525059809310.post-22596875130487043492012-11-27T09:09:00.000-05:002012-11-28T09:09:25.717-05:00More MoneyMilo: I want to take pictures and make money<br />
Me: So you want to be a professional photographer<br />
Milo (exasperated): No I just want to take good pictures...and make money to give to Daddy to take to work and he can buy more money<br />
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The life of a budding artist is tricky.<br />
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***<br />
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3/4 of our house is sick with a nasty virus. We are hoping the remaining and youngest family member doesn't get it. Mommy milk protective enzymes do your work!Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03443129246882833018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096391525059809310.post-16954157621937994412012-11-26T20:15:00.001-05:002012-11-26T20:15:16.256-05:00LeftoversIn trying to reclaim the space in my fridge all the leftovers from Thanksgiving were taking up, I made a concerted effort to use everything today. It wasn't getting any fresher after all. Plus we are planning another large meal this weekend when we celebrate an early Christmas with Chris' parents.<br />
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So mission leftover: I made these delicious <a href="http://www.twopeasandtheirpod.com/leftover-cranberry-sauce-muffins/" target="_blank">muffins</a> this afternoon. And then I promptly ate at least two of them. The filling of the muffins is leftover cranberry sauce and it is super yummy wrapped up in cake. If you make the recipe be warned that it only makes about 6 (mine made 8) muffins. Also the batter is incredibly thick. I subbed some whole wheat flour, but otherwise left the recipe as is. So good!<br />
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Then for dinner tonight I made a <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/robin-miller/turkey-shepherds-pie-with-leftover-mashed-potatoes-recipe/index.html" target="_blank">turkey shepherd's pie</a> (loosely following that recipe - basically I didn't use as much stock and then sprinkled butter and cheese over the top). I didn't know how it would go with the family, but it was a hit. Even Milo ate it and requested I make it again one day. Plus it used up almost all the leftover mashed potatoes (still have some to make potato pancakes) and all the turkey.<br />
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So the leftovers are almost all gone. I may need to just eat a big salad for my next couple of meals.Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03443129246882833018noreply@blogger.com0