For those of you who read my blog to get a good laugh for the day, today is not that day. But I wanted to share my insight with all of you out there before it gets lost in the fog of my mommy-brain. Or in the couch cushions.
We are fortunate enough to live very close to Madelynn's school, so we make every effort to walk to school in the morning. I'm also super-fortunate to live next door to another awesome Mommy that's become a close friend and we share drop-off, pick-up duties. So, I find myself walking to school with an 8 year old, 7 year old, 5 year old and two 2 year olds. The big kids have learned the rules of where to stop in order to cross the one street, and they often run ahead. So the little kids have figured out that being buckled in the wagon is pretty restrictive and there is freedom to be had! ONE TIME I let them walk, and it's been awful trying to get them back in that wagon ever since.
So the little kids are walking. And they don't quite know the rules. And they're clumsy. So I hold their hands. And this is to keep them safe, but they don't always understand or like this.
And so it hit me.
What a parallel this is between the relationship we have with our children and the relationship God has with us.
Think about it. God holds our hands to keep us safe. Most of the time, we're just cruising along. Maybe even thinking we got this under control. But what about when we want to go "explore" and we're denied? We chafe under not being able to do what we want, but the simple truth of it, is that we can't see the big picture and don't understand that God is simply keeping us out of the street where the I'm-late-for-school-so-I-must-drive-faster people are.
But it's not just the guiding that we can compare. What about inevitable moment that a clumsy little foot catches on the sidewalk. Your Mommy hand tightens and goes up, thereby saving a scraped knee and tears. God does that too. When we're walking hand in hand with him, he's there to protect us from scrapes in life when they come along. But if we've let go, thinking we can handle things on our own, that fall can be painful and scarring.
So, rather than throwing a fit about having to hold hands or trying to wriggle free at every opportunity (squirrel!), lets approach our walk with God with the innocence of a 2 year old. Enjoy the world around you and trust in His strength to keep you safe and secure in life.
Monday, November 12, 2012
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Morning Running?!?!
If you'd told me as a teenager that I'd wake up at 5 am on purpose, to run AND enjoy it. I'd probably smack you in the face. With a hammer.
Yet, there I was. Running along this morning at 5:15, thinking to myself, "How nice is this? It's so quiet, peaceful and cool." and now I'm sitting on the couch, drinking a still-warm cup of coffee and watching (gasp) NOT Nick Jr!
So, I'm planning to continue this trend through the summer as I train for my third and final half-marathon of the year in October. Waddell & Reed, here I come!
Oh, and I managed to run 3.03 miles in 40 minutes. Not stellar, but acceptable.
Friday, June 29, 2012
Spitting
There are some unglamorous aspects of running. I mean besides the copious sweating, splotchy face and the need for Body Glide. For me, one of those is spitting. I know, eew. (If you're already grossed out, you should stop reading. Like, seriously.)
This can be attributed to two things. First, I'm a mouth-breather. I tried to breathe through my nose once. I was gasping so bad, I just ended up getting boogers all over myself. Secondly, I refuse to carry any water with me. It's just too much of a pain. And there's a real lack of people standing along my route with paper cups of water to give me. They set water out for dogs, what about the humans?
So, I breath through my mouth and work up a nice, mouthful of foam and then have nothing with which to wash it down. The obvious alternative is to spit.
In the many miles I've traveled, I've discovered there are four kinds of spitballs.
The Neat Ball
This spitball occurs early in a run. You've breathed just enough to work up a mouth full of foam and it's got to go. So, you turn your head, make an O with your mouth and propel the foam outward. And a neat, perfect little ball goes flying through the air to the grass (never, EVER spit on the sidewalk! That's just gross and rude!) And on you continue with your run and your refreshed mouth.
The Grenade
That refreshed mouth does not stay that way for long, however and soon it's time to clear out again. So you go through the same motions, but much to your surprise, The Neat Ball explodes on it's way out and ridiculous pieces fly everywhere. The key thing about The Grenade is timing. One should always assume The Grenade is appearing (rather than The Neat Ball) and allow enough time for the pieces to land before turning your head back to the front. That's right, shrapnel. And dry-wicking running clothes don't handle spit very well! Correct. I have spit on myself.
The Phantom
This spitball is typical of longer runs. As your body uses up its internal hydration, it runs out of moisture to make spit. But your mouth can still make bubbles! And trying to spit those bubbles is just plain ridiculous, but oh so necessary! And so you go through the motions, attempt to expel them and then.......nothing. So frustrating!
The Head Cold
This spitball is horrendous and to be avoided at all costs when running with friends, at races or on the treadmill. Well, you probably shouldn't spit while on the treadmill as a general rule.
Murphy's Law of Running states that you will get a head/chest cold exactly two weeks prior to the race that terrifies you most.
So basically, you can still run, but you feel like crap and breathing is a joke. Drowning in you're mucous is more accurate. In order to survive to the end, you must get rid of some of that mucous. By spitting. But this is no average spitball. It's a bona fide lougee. And the production isn't pretty, either. All that hacking and gargling. Gross. And then, the worst part, getting rid of it. One time, I actually went through all the prep and then this guy ran by. Totally waited til he was out of sight before I spit it out. That was interesting.
But you have to be careful when you spit these out. They tend to have a mind of their own. They sometimes stay neat and land where you aim. Sometimes they explode on the way down and kill small bugs. And sometimes the wind catches them. And blows them back at you. And you don't notice. Until you get home. And realize you've ran five miles with a lougee on your shirt.
So, the moral to the story is, if you run with me, stick to the front!
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Running Away from Home
Madelynn and McKenna were playing outside this fine spring morning while I was preparing lunch. Earlier that morning, McKenna had happened across a backpack in her closet that she'd been carrying around all morning. So both girls were outside with their backpacks playing nicely (for a change).
Solemnly, Madelynn comes through the back door, "Mom, I'm running away from home." and gives me a great big bear hug. "Please take care of LuLu." McKenna had to be more prompted for my hug, but I got one.
And off they set. After Mommy checked to make sure it was ok to cross the street.
I watched, discreetly as they walked down the block, hand in hand. They came to a little side street and stopped, faced with a dilemma. They've never been allowed to cross a street without an adult before. What should they do? So they sat down in the grass and took a rest. Madelynn told me later, they had decided to live there.
But McKenna decided they should press on. So they walked up to the very edge of the sidewalk, looked both ways 20 times and RAN AS FAST AS THEY COULD across the street. Emboldened, they joined hands and continued walking.
At this point, I decided it was time to interfere. I gathered Marek and Teagen, got my car keys, shut the house up and turned off the oven (all in a matter of two seconds, as I didn't really want them out of my sight!). When I was coming out the front door, I noticed they were walking back towards our house. I watched them check for cars another 20-hundred times and make their mad dash, all while trying to appear nonchalant and NOT like I was waiting for them to come home.
When they got back, I asked them why they came back.
"Well, we decided to think twice about it. We didn't really have anywhere to live and we don't have any food." said Madelynn.
"Yeah. I'm going to get my bike. Can you tell me which way is Cadence's house?" said McKenna.
Over lunch, we discussed the fact that I wasn't really going to let them run away, Cadence lives REALLY far away and that it isn't safe to leave the house without a grownup. I know the lesson hit home for Madelynn. McKenna had that gleam in her eye....
Solemnly, Madelynn comes through the back door, "Mom, I'm running away from home." and gives me a great big bear hug. "Please take care of LuLu." McKenna had to be more prompted for my hug, but I got one.
And off they set. After Mommy checked to make sure it was ok to cross the street.
But McKenna decided they should press on. So they walked up to the very edge of the sidewalk, looked both ways 20 times and RAN AS FAST AS THEY COULD across the street. Emboldened, they joined hands and continued walking.
At this point, I decided it was time to interfere. I gathered Marek and Teagen, got my car keys, shut the house up and turned off the oven (all in a matter of two seconds, as I didn't really want them out of my sight!). When I was coming out the front door, I noticed they were walking back towards our house. I watched them check for cars another 20-hundred times and make their mad dash, all while trying to appear nonchalant and NOT like I was waiting for them to come home.
When they got back, I asked them why they came back.
"Well, we decided to think twice about it. We didn't really have anywhere to live and we don't have any food." said Madelynn.
"Yeah. I'm going to get my bike. Can you tell me which way is Cadence's house?" said McKenna.
Over lunch, we discussed the fact that I wasn't really going to let them run away, Cadence lives REALLY far away and that it isn't safe to leave the house without a grownup. I know the lesson hit home for Madelynn. McKenna had that gleam in her eye....
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Dangerous Words
This evening, my husband uttered dangerous words. We'd tucked the kids into bed, picked up the house and changed into jammies when he yawned, and said,
"You know what sounds good? A McFlurry. Well, good night."
And off he strolled to bed.
I should also frame this little comment with an incident from earlier this afternoon. While I was stretching to head out for a practice 5K, I glanced over to see Branden eating a Hershey bar. Which I happened to know was the LAST ONE. When I inquired about this, all he said was, "I love you honey!"
Bummer.
So here I sit. In a quiet house. Desperate for something sweet. And my secret stash raided and empty.
"You know what sounds good? A McFlurry. Well, good night."
And off he strolled to bed.
I should also frame this little comment with an incident from earlier this afternoon. While I was stretching to head out for a practice 5K, I glanced over to see Branden eating a Hershey bar. Which I happened to know was the LAST ONE. When I inquired about this, all he said was, "I love you honey!"
Bummer.
So here I sit. In a quiet house. Desperate for something sweet. And my secret stash raided and empty.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Running is Cheap
Yeah. Whoever said that, never actually ran. Like as a hobby. Running in itself is cheap. The accessories, not so much. And to be successful in long distance running, the accessories are key. Here are a few that I've discovered are super important to me.
Shoes
This seems like a pretty obvious one. Did you know that you're supposed to replace your shoes after 300 to 500 miles. Guess I threw all my other ones out too soon. Ah ha ha! Shockingly, I'm on my second pair of running shoes and they're nigh unto death. I'm debating the wisdom of nursing them through the half marathon I have coming up in April. But when a quality pair costs $100, wisdom and economics don't always speak the same language.
Clothes
Another no brainer. For me, spandex is my friend. No, no, no! A blend, I swear! I have been pleasantly surprised by Old Navy's active wear line. They're inexpensive, comfortable and cute. I will reluctantly admit, I wear my running pants far more often than I actually run.
Socks
Yes, this is so important, it is in a separate category from clothing. COTTON IS ROTTEN! Ok, I read that somewhere. But it's totally true. If you don't have synthetic socks, you'll regret it. They even have these fancy ones with the extra supportive band around your arch. Gotta try those....
Bra
Again, super important. I have experienced both extremes of badness. The pain of having your boobs bouncing all around because your bra is too loose, is a special kind of pain. However, the squished, I can't breathe because my boobs are invading my lung space, feeling-is also special. And when you're running, you'll find that breathing is important. But tight sports bras are impossible to get on and off by yourself. And that's a tough thing to realize. Until you have to say, "Honey, can you help me get my bra off?" Especially when you're sweaty.
Armband/RunnersPack
This is for holding your iPod (or other such music listening devices). I despise holding anything in my hand. I can't even carry water with me. So, this is uber-important for making sure I have my tunes! The washable ones are good. They, too can get pretty stinky!
My sister, Katie (Our Adventures) swears by the RunnersPack. She puts all sorts of stuff in it when she runs. Keys, water, phone, my crap, etc. Me, I don't really see the need for one. I just run with her.
Tunes
I debated putting this at the top of the list. But, you know you look at those people that run barefoot like they're a little bit crazy. So, put some shoes on first and then create your playlist. You can use whatever device works best for you. But be sure you know how to use it! For me, it is for my iPhone. Let's call a spade a spade: I'm a little klutzy. So that means running with a device that allows me to listen to music and dial 911 when I've fallen and made a fool of myself. Back to the songs. There's nothing crappier than struggling to make it up a tough hill and the slowest, stupidest song comes on. It's enough to make you pack it in for the day. Conversely, the right song, with the perfect beat, at that tough moment, can make your feet lighter and that hill a little more manageable. So, put some thought into that playlist. Tweak it as needed. And delete those stupid songs!
Apps
Finally, get a good app! When you're out there hitting the sidewalk, or treadmill, by yourself, you need a good coach. There's a ton of apps that can help you on your merry, running way. The one that got me started was the Couch to 5K and from there I've gone on to RunKeeper. (Katie swears by Run Coach Pro). They're all pretty inexpensive and you can tailor them to fit your needs.
So there you have it. All my secrets. And now you know why I scoff at the people that say running is cheap. And you can scoff right along with me.
Amy
All donations can be sent to.....
Ok, I'm only mostly kidding. But if you're interested in helping support my habit, you can check out the things I have for sale on my facebook page "Sewing to Run" :)
Shoes
This seems like a pretty obvious one. Did you know that you're supposed to replace your shoes after 300 to 500 miles. Guess I threw all my other ones out too soon. Ah ha ha! Shockingly, I'm on my second pair of running shoes and they're nigh unto death. I'm debating the wisdom of nursing them through the half marathon I have coming up in April. But when a quality pair costs $100, wisdom and economics don't always speak the same language.
Clothes
Another no brainer. For me, spandex is my friend. No, no, no! A blend, I swear! I have been pleasantly surprised by Old Navy's active wear line. They're inexpensive, comfortable and cute. I will reluctantly admit, I wear my running pants far more often than I actually run.
Socks
Yes, this is so important, it is in a separate category from clothing. COTTON IS ROTTEN! Ok, I read that somewhere. But it's totally true. If you don't have synthetic socks, you'll regret it. They even have these fancy ones with the extra supportive band around your arch. Gotta try those....
Bra
Again, super important. I have experienced both extremes of badness. The pain of having your boobs bouncing all around because your bra is too loose, is a special kind of pain. However, the squished, I can't breathe because my boobs are invading my lung space, feeling-is also special. And when you're running, you'll find that breathing is important. But tight sports bras are impossible to get on and off by yourself. And that's a tough thing to realize. Until you have to say, "Honey, can you help me get my bra off?" Especially when you're sweaty.
Armband/RunnersPack
This is for holding your iPod (or other such music listening devices). I despise holding anything in my hand. I can't even carry water with me. So, this is uber-important for making sure I have my tunes! The washable ones are good. They, too can get pretty stinky!
My sister, Katie (Our Adventures) swears by the RunnersPack. She puts all sorts of stuff in it when she runs. Keys, water, phone, my crap, etc. Me, I don't really see the need for one. I just run with her.
Tunes
I debated putting this at the top of the list. But, you know you look at those people that run barefoot like they're a little bit crazy. So, put some shoes on first and then create your playlist. You can use whatever device works best for you. But be sure you know how to use it! For me, it is for my iPhone. Let's call a spade a spade: I'm a little klutzy. So that means running with a device that allows me to listen to music and dial 911 when I've fallen and made a fool of myself. Back to the songs. There's nothing crappier than struggling to make it up a tough hill and the slowest, stupidest song comes on. It's enough to make you pack it in for the day. Conversely, the right song, with the perfect beat, at that tough moment, can make your feet lighter and that hill a little more manageable. So, put some thought into that playlist. Tweak it as needed. And delete those stupid songs!
Apps
Finally, get a good app! When you're out there hitting the sidewalk, or treadmill, by yourself, you need a good coach. There's a ton of apps that can help you on your merry, running way. The one that got me started was the Couch to 5K and from there I've gone on to RunKeeper. (Katie swears by Run Coach Pro). They're all pretty inexpensive and you can tailor them to fit your needs.
So there you have it. All my secrets. And now you know why I scoff at the people that say running is cheap. And you can scoff right along with me.
Amy
All donations can be sent to.....
Ok, I'm only mostly kidding. But if you're interested in helping support my habit, you can check out the things I have for sale on my facebook page "Sewing to Run" :)
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Training: Day One
So I'm planning to run a half marathon on April 22nd. I'm a planner, it's how I was designed. I think God finds it humorous to encourage my planning, you know-with my DNA, and then screw the plans all up.
I found out I broke my foot, not sprained it like I thought. That was a mandatory 2-3 weeks of non-running. I about lost my mind. Just as I was about done with my "resting", I got a wicked sinus infection. I mean nasty.
See, guffawing.
So today was my first day of training for the half marathon I'll be running on April 22nd. If you're counting, that is indeed in only 7 weeks. I am NOT in that good of shape. But press on, I will. Running is, I've discovered, what keeps me healthy, sane and my children alive. Ok, that was a joke. But seriously, running is good for me. It's like my husband commented recently. "I just wish you'd get well so you could get back to running. Cause it's just true what they say; when Momma ain't happy, ain't nobody happy." Which I guess is not a glowing reflection of my personality when I'm not feeling well....
Because of the lack of time, I will be running at least four days a week. With four small children, this can be difficult. So, we've purchased a family membership at the community center, complete with kid-watch coupons! Yay!
This morning, I prepped my gym bag with all the necessary items for me to shower after my workout. I psyched the kids up for the fun time they were about to have. Schlepped all three of them up there (Madelynn was in school) and discovered that the kid-watch was closed because they were full. I almost cried.
But no. I was not giving up. We put our names on the waiting list and went to the "free room" to play. FORTY FIVE MINUTES LATER, they came and got us. I had exactly 40 minutes to run, shower, dress and pick up Madelynn from school in time. So something had to give, and it wasn't going to be the shower!
I found myself a treadmill, started grooving to my tunes and took off. One song later, realized the iPod was on repeat. While attempting to change that, I misstepped. Yep. Hit the side of the treadmill and went all funny. Caught myself on the bar and managed not to fall all the way off, but I'm sure I looked like quite an idiot! Once I regained my balance, and my breath, I hovered over the still running belt and starting back in like nothing had even happened.
My husband asked me if anyone was laughing at me (while he was laughing). I told him I'm sure they were. I didn't look around to see. I pretended like it didn't even happen. However, because I had my ear buds in, I'm sure I made all sorts of noise! Oh well, I'm sure it made someone's day!
Because my shower was not to be skipped (people, you have no idea how hard it is to fit a shower into the middle of a day with four little ones-it was now or never!), I only had time to run one mile. So I determined to run that mile like my life depended on it! 12:15. Not half bad for the first day and a near tripping!
Went to pick up the children and attempt to herd them out the door, but McKenna had trouble getting her shoe on. Marek, however did not feel the need to wait. And everyone was very accommodating. They held open the kid-watch door for him (I didn't notice, as I was helping with the shoes) and then several kind, elderly people held the TWO outer doors open for him. That's right. My teeny, tiny one year old, strolled right out the front doors. Very obviously alone. I finally caught up to him as he was getting ready to step foot onto the parking lot. Yeah, I don't really understand that either.
So, for a first day of training, I'll just say this: It can only get better!
I found out I broke my foot, not sprained it like I thought. That was a mandatory 2-3 weeks of non-running. I about lost my mind. Just as I was about done with my "resting", I got a wicked sinus infection. I mean nasty.
See, guffawing.
So today was my first day of training for the half marathon I'll be running on April 22nd. If you're counting, that is indeed in only 7 weeks. I am NOT in that good of shape. But press on, I will. Running is, I've discovered, what keeps me healthy, sane and my children alive. Ok, that was a joke. But seriously, running is good for me. It's like my husband commented recently. "I just wish you'd get well so you could get back to running. Cause it's just true what they say; when Momma ain't happy, ain't nobody happy." Which I guess is not a glowing reflection of my personality when I'm not feeling well....
Because of the lack of time, I will be running at least four days a week. With four small children, this can be difficult. So, we've purchased a family membership at the community center, complete with kid-watch coupons! Yay!
This morning, I prepped my gym bag with all the necessary items for me to shower after my workout. I psyched the kids up for the fun time they were about to have. Schlepped all three of them up there (Madelynn was in school) and discovered that the kid-watch was closed because they were full. I almost cried.
But no. I was not giving up. We put our names on the waiting list and went to the "free room" to play. FORTY FIVE MINUTES LATER, they came and got us. I had exactly 40 minutes to run, shower, dress and pick up Madelynn from school in time. So something had to give, and it wasn't going to be the shower!
I found myself a treadmill, started grooving to my tunes and took off. One song later, realized the iPod was on repeat. While attempting to change that, I misstepped. Yep. Hit the side of the treadmill and went all funny. Caught myself on the bar and managed not to fall all the way off, but I'm sure I looked like quite an idiot! Once I regained my balance, and my breath, I hovered over the still running belt and starting back in like nothing had even happened.
My husband asked me if anyone was laughing at me (while he was laughing). I told him I'm sure they were. I didn't look around to see. I pretended like it didn't even happen. However, because I had my ear buds in, I'm sure I made all sorts of noise! Oh well, I'm sure it made someone's day!
Because my shower was not to be skipped (people, you have no idea how hard it is to fit a shower into the middle of a day with four little ones-it was now or never!), I only had time to run one mile. So I determined to run that mile like my life depended on it! 12:15. Not half bad for the first day and a near tripping!
Went to pick up the children and attempt to herd them out the door, but McKenna had trouble getting her shoe on. Marek, however did not feel the need to wait. And everyone was very accommodating. They held open the kid-watch door for him (I didn't notice, as I was helping with the shoes) and then several kind, elderly people held the TWO outer doors open for him. That's right. My teeny, tiny one year old, strolled right out the front doors. Very obviously alone. I finally caught up to him as he was getting ready to step foot onto the parking lot. Yeah, I don't really understand that either.
So, for a first day of training, I'll just say this: It can only get better!
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
My Kind of Valentine's
Since our anniversary is right around the corner, Branden and I don't really celebrate Valentine's Day with each other. He gets me flowers, I write a mushy card. That's about it.
(This year I got tulips, our wedding flower. He did good.)
No, this holiday is about our kids. And boy was it a hit this year! I enlisted the girls' help to make cookies for friends and neighbors. Madelynn claimed to be an eggs-pert egg cracker (ahh ha ha!). She wasn't. I declared resting time and finished them myself. For better or worse, I struggle to be the mom that lets her kids make a GIGANTIC mess in the kitchen for the sake of memories. (PS- I don't have a dishwasher....)
For their gifts, I bought the girls a Cuddle Bug. This is a little stuffed bug with a zipper backpack to hold goodies and bendable feet to hold a love note. Madelynn has been asking for one for years. Seriously, since she was 4. I stuffed them full of DollarTree candy and wrote a love note and left them at their breakfast places. The look on Madelynn's face was indeed priceless. Sadly, I had not had my coffee and was not conscious enough to capture said magical moment.
After enjoying our pink, chocolate chip pancakes, Madelynn headed off to school and McKenna and I took the babies grocery shopping. I secretly laughed at all the men buying the last minute flowers and candy. I know, shame on me....
When Daddy got home, he brought the kids an armful of goodies. The girls got beautiful blooming flowers with stuffed animals and Marek got animal cookies and fruit snacks. So appropriate.
In return, Madelynn gave Daddy a Valentine she wrote herself:
Over dinner, Madelynn described what, she believed were each of our God given abilities in this world. Of course, she is a beautiful singer. Daddy has the ability to "love good". Mommy is a "good cooker". And McKenna? In a stage whisper, "She's good at being crazy!"
So there you have it, folks! Not a Hollywood Valentine's, by any means. But I wouldn't trade it for the world!
(This year I got tulips, our wedding flower. He did good.)
No, this holiday is about our kids. And boy was it a hit this year! I enlisted the girls' help to make cookies for friends and neighbors. Madelynn claimed to be an eggs-pert egg cracker (ahh ha ha!). She wasn't. I declared resting time and finished them myself. For better or worse, I struggle to be the mom that lets her kids make a GIGANTIC mess in the kitchen for the sake of memories. (PS- I don't have a dishwasher....)
For their gifts, I bought the girls a Cuddle Bug. This is a little stuffed bug with a zipper backpack to hold goodies and bendable feet to hold a love note. Madelynn has been asking for one for years. Seriously, since she was 4. I stuffed them full of DollarTree candy and wrote a love note and left them at their breakfast places. The look on Madelynn's face was indeed priceless. Sadly, I had not had my coffee and was not conscious enough to capture said magical moment.
After enjoying our pink, chocolate chip pancakes, Madelynn headed off to school and McKenna and I took the babies grocery shopping. I secretly laughed at all the men buying the last minute flowers and candy. I know, shame on me....
When Daddy got home, he brought the kids an armful of goodies. The girls got beautiful blooming flowers with stuffed animals and Marek got animal cookies and fruit snacks. So appropriate.
In return, Madelynn gave Daddy a Valentine she wrote herself:
So there you have it, folks! Not a Hollywood Valentine's, by any means. But I wouldn't trade it for the world!
Monday, February 6, 2012
The Fiasco that was Dinner
This evening rang in the start of the Spring semester of ballet for Madelynn and McKenna. This means two hours of sitting in a metal folding chair, in a church hallway for Mommy. Good times!
In true Amy fashion, I totally prepared dinner so that the evening would be smooth sailing. I found a scrumptious looking recipe on Pinterest. Put everything in the crockpot (with a last minute rescue by my dear neighbor! I mean, who runs out of garlic?), and off we went to dance class.
Three hours later, we returned home. I realized that instead of cooking the chicken on high for 1 1/2 hours, or on low for three hours, I cooked it on high for three hours. Pretty dry chicken. In really liquidy sauce.
At this point, Madelynn is beside herself with grief over the (not new) fact that she will not be getting a puppy anytime soon. Sobbing. Hysterically. So, Branden took her to the UPS store with him in order to further discuss the issue. The result? Madelynn will be working to do extra chores to earn money in order to help pay for a fence that will house a future puppy. Hmmmm.....
So I remove the chicken from the sauce and attempt to reduce it on the stovetop. But it's not quite right, so I added some brown sugar and hot sauce (not in the original recipe, mind you) and turned my attention to the chopped salad I was creating. Now, when you're reducing a sauce. It needs stirring. Constant stirring. Especially if there's sugar in it.
At this point, Marek has lost all patience. Its an hour past dinnertime, he is hungry and he wants fed IMMEDIATELY! His solution is to hang on my legs until I give him food.
Still making that salad. There's a LOT of crap in that salad!
You guessed it. I burnt the sauce black. A roiling, boiling pan of nastiness. I just set it outside, closed the door and shut off the smoke detector. Plan B....
Started a new sauce (minus garlic!) and stood by the stove with a whisk! I gave McKenna a bowl of Cheetos and had her entice Marek into their bedroom like you would a little puppy. Hey, it was desperate times!
Just as I was getting the sauce finished, McKenna decided she'd had enough. She too was hungry, and tired to boot. Along with her, came Marek. My tiny kitchen now held me and my two grumpy kiddos, who are both crying.
I finally served up dinner to kids that were not at all impressed, and a hubby that said "That wasnt bad". Spent way longer cleaning the kitchen than I did making it dirty. And cursed the decision to serve rice to my one year old, while I was attempting to sweep the dining room floor.
However, I am so happy to report that this evening did not end in the bottom of a bottle or a storm of tears for me. I was able to chuckle at the absurdity of it all and be thankful that this is not the norm!
I think, perhaps the takeaway here is the next time I get cocky and think to myself, "We've got this. Branden and I are pros!", that I should NOT EVER THINK THAT AGAIN!
In true Amy fashion, I totally prepared dinner so that the evening would be smooth sailing. I found a scrumptious looking recipe on Pinterest. Put everything in the crockpot (with a last minute rescue by my dear neighbor! I mean, who runs out of garlic?), and off we went to dance class.
Three hours later, we returned home. I realized that instead of cooking the chicken on high for 1 1/2 hours, or on low for three hours, I cooked it on high for three hours. Pretty dry chicken. In really liquidy sauce.
At this point, Madelynn is beside herself with grief over the (not new) fact that she will not be getting a puppy anytime soon. Sobbing. Hysterically. So, Branden took her to the UPS store with him in order to further discuss the issue. The result? Madelynn will be working to do extra chores to earn money in order to help pay for a fence that will house a future puppy. Hmmmm.....
So I remove the chicken from the sauce and attempt to reduce it on the stovetop. But it's not quite right, so I added some brown sugar and hot sauce (not in the original recipe, mind you) and turned my attention to the chopped salad I was creating. Now, when you're reducing a sauce. It needs stirring. Constant stirring. Especially if there's sugar in it.
At this point, Marek has lost all patience. Its an hour past dinnertime, he is hungry and he wants fed IMMEDIATELY! His solution is to hang on my legs until I give him food.
Still making that salad. There's a LOT of crap in that salad!
You guessed it. I burnt the sauce black. A roiling, boiling pan of nastiness. I just set it outside, closed the door and shut off the smoke detector. Plan B....
Started a new sauce (minus garlic!) and stood by the stove with a whisk! I gave McKenna a bowl of Cheetos and had her entice Marek into their bedroom like you would a little puppy. Hey, it was desperate times!
Just as I was getting the sauce finished, McKenna decided she'd had enough. She too was hungry, and tired to boot. Along with her, came Marek. My tiny kitchen now held me and my two grumpy kiddos, who are both crying.
I finally served up dinner to kids that were not at all impressed, and a hubby that said "That wasnt bad". Spent way longer cleaning the kitchen than I did making it dirty. And cursed the decision to serve rice to my one year old, while I was attempting to sweep the dining room floor.
However, I am so happy to report that this evening did not end in the bottom of a bottle or a storm of tears for me. I was able to chuckle at the absurdity of it all and be thankful that this is not the norm!
I think, perhaps the takeaway here is the next time I get cocky and think to myself, "We've got this. Branden and I are pros!", that I should NOT EVER THINK THAT AGAIN!
Friday, February 3, 2012
The Dinner Menu
I typically do not provide a secondary option for my children at dinner. They can eat what I serve, or go to bed hungry. Madelynn frequently chooses hunger.
Thursday night, I prepared lasagna roll-ups for dinner. Why yes! You have seen these on Pinterest! When Madelynn asked what was for dinner, I told her, and her face fell. She doesn't do pasta. She asked me if she could have a peanut butter sandwich. I told her "Probably not" Rather than the dejected pout I was expecting, she looked at me, full of hope and said, "Are you close to yes?"
I couldn't help it. I started laughing. And I fixed her a peanut butter sandwich for dinner. For the sheer creativity of it!
Thankfully, this turned out to be divine intervention in the middle of the night. You guessed it, Madelynn threw up that peanut butter sandwich at 2:30 in the morning. I was so glad it wasn't lasagna roll-ups!
So I spent the entire day inhaling unsafe amounts of Lysol and Clorox fumes. Everything that could, has seen a cycle or two in the washing machine. And I've even scrubbed the children til they're shiny.
Dear Lord,
Please allow my children to sleep all night (and by extension, their Mama).
Please, oh please let all of those scuzzy germs have died a painful death of burning by Clorox, before any person in this house inhaled a single one.
Please let the puking be over.
Amen
Thursday night, I prepared lasagna roll-ups for dinner. Why yes! You have seen these on Pinterest! When Madelynn asked what was for dinner, I told her, and her face fell. She doesn't do pasta. She asked me if she could have a peanut butter sandwich. I told her "Probably not" Rather than the dejected pout I was expecting, she looked at me, full of hope and said, "Are you close to yes?"
I couldn't help it. I started laughing. And I fixed her a peanut butter sandwich for dinner. For the sheer creativity of it!
Thankfully, this turned out to be divine intervention in the middle of the night. You guessed it, Madelynn threw up that peanut butter sandwich at 2:30 in the morning. I was so glad it wasn't lasagna roll-ups!
So I spent the entire day inhaling unsafe amounts of Lysol and Clorox fumes. Everything that could, has seen a cycle or two in the washing machine. And I've even scrubbed the children til they're shiny.
Dear Lord,
Please allow my children to sleep all night (and by extension, their Mama).
Please, oh please let all of those scuzzy germs have died a painful death of burning by Clorox, before any person in this house inhaled a single one.
Please let the puking be over.
Amen
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
My 29th Birthday (OK, my 33rd)
Today is my birthday. However, I firmly believe one should celebrate the entire month. Why stop at a day? Now that I'm a mom, that has been slightly curbed for logistical reasons. I've cut back to a weekend. Or two.
This year, my parents picked up my sweet, angelic children on Friday afternoon and promised to keep them until we picked them up on Sunday. We promised to actually pick them up.
So what craziness ensued? We were in bed by 8 pm. True story. And I'm not ashamed to admit that I threw the alarm clock across the room the next morning, rolled over and slept in until 8:30 am. Totally skipped my scheduled 6 mile run. It felt gooooood. Then Branden and I went and got a couples massage. That's right. I said Branden and I. That is an upcoming post you will NOT want to miss.
Ate out at a restaurant (sans highchair and kiddie menu), went shopping and talked to the nice people at the Apple store (they talked inhumanely fast, I tried desperately to memorize, so as to analyze and comprehend later). In short, a weekend only possible without children.
Sunday morning, slept in again (I know you all hate me right now). Leisurely picked up a few groceries and went out to the farm to have lunch with my parents and visit. Ended up staying until bedtime (Sorry mom!) since there wasn't any school on Monday.
Then today, my actual birthday, my darling husband helped my daughters decorate a cake for me. These were just a few of things overheard during that process:
"Do not lick my arm again."
"No sucking the frosting out of the bottle."
"No, I cannot spell 'You're the best mom in the whole world and we love you very much' on this cake"
"I do think you're a good artist, but I don't think you should try to draw Mommy"
It was a fantastic cake!
During resting time, my sweet friend stopped by with balloons, flowers (which I'll most likely kill by the end of the week. So sad. But I'm gonna try real hard this time. Swear!) and a cake that I plan to share with no one. So wonderful!
At AWANA, the leaders all signed a card, sang Happy Birthday to me (with the clubbers) and gave me a giant cookie cake!
And just to milk things a little more, I've been invited to my very dear friend's house Saturday for a favorite meal and cake. Then we're going to wrap the evening up with a couple bottles of wine and a fire. We're not sure yet if the boys are invited....
I can't forget to mention the numerous phone calls I received today, and the many renditions of Happy Birthday being sung in my ear.
And of course, Face book. It warms my heart every time that little chime sounds. And it's been sounding a lot! My wall has been blowing up with birthday well wishes!
All to say, THANK YOU SO MUCH to you all that have made such an effort to wish me a Happy Birthday! It is humbling and heartwarming to know how much love is out there. And to have it poured back on me today, well, that will make every day this year a little brighter.
Thank you friends.
This year, my parents picked up my sweet, angelic children on Friday afternoon and promised to keep them until we picked them up on Sunday. We promised to actually pick them up.
So what craziness ensued? We were in bed by 8 pm. True story. And I'm not ashamed to admit that I threw the alarm clock across the room the next morning, rolled over and slept in until 8:30 am. Totally skipped my scheduled 6 mile run. It felt gooooood. Then Branden and I went and got a couples massage. That's right. I said Branden and I. That is an upcoming post you will NOT want to miss.
Ate out at a restaurant (sans highchair and kiddie menu), went shopping and talked to the nice people at the Apple store (they talked inhumanely fast, I tried desperately to memorize, so as to analyze and comprehend later). In short, a weekend only possible without children.
Sunday morning, slept in again (I know you all hate me right now). Leisurely picked up a few groceries and went out to the farm to have lunch with my parents and visit. Ended up staying until bedtime (Sorry mom!) since there wasn't any school on Monday.
Then today, my actual birthday, my darling husband helped my daughters decorate a cake for me. These were just a few of things overheard during that process:
"Do not lick my arm again."
"No sucking the frosting out of the bottle."
"No, I cannot spell 'You're the best mom in the whole world and we love you very much' on this cake"
"I do think you're a good artist, but I don't think you should try to draw Mommy"
It was a fantastic cake!
During resting time, my sweet friend stopped by with balloons, flowers (which I'll most likely kill by the end of the week. So sad. But I'm gonna try real hard this time. Swear!) and a cake that I plan to share with no one. So wonderful!
At AWANA, the leaders all signed a card, sang Happy Birthday to me (with the clubbers) and gave me a giant cookie cake!
And just to milk things a little more, I've been invited to my very dear friend's house Saturday for a favorite meal and cake. Then we're going to wrap the evening up with a couple bottles of wine and a fire. We're not sure yet if the boys are invited....
I can't forget to mention the numerous phone calls I received today, and the many renditions of Happy Birthday being sung in my ear.
And of course, Face book. It warms my heart every time that little chime sounds. And it's been sounding a lot! My wall has been blowing up with birthday well wishes!
All to say, THANK YOU SO MUCH to you all that have made such an effort to wish me a Happy Birthday! It is humbling and heartwarming to know how much love is out there. And to have it poured back on me today, well, that will make every day this year a little brighter.
Thank you friends.
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