is a tie between the early mornings when Davis comes and quietly climbs in our bed to snuggle between Bennett and I...and the evenings when Holden and I rock in her room. Her hair is usually wet, she smells like baby soft lotion, and her skin is this flawless ivory. I could eat her up. I look at her every night and every night I think "She is the sweetest thing I have ever seen..."
And we do this routine. She always wants me to reach over and grab her Minnie Mouse doll. She gives her a kiss, and a hug, and then lately she has given Minnie her binky. I use Minnie's hand to hold it in her mouth and I make the sucking noise, and Holden thinks it is so great. Until she wants it back. Then she rubs her belly to say "pease" and reaches to get it back, and then she lays her head on my chest and just looks up at me with her big blue eyes. And I know how lucky I am.
In those moments, I always know how lucky I am.
7/31/13
6 Month Check-In
It just occurred to me this morning that it's almost exactly six months through the year. Which gives me major anxiety considering how quickly time is flying. I was thinking about that saying "The days are long, but the years are so fast..." whoever said that was brilliant. And also a mom. Of toddlers.
But anyway, that is not what I was thinking of. I was thinking mainly that it's the perfect halfway point to check in on my 2013 New Year's Resolutions. I love resolutions. So here is my list from December 2012, with a little commentary in red on where I stand with them.
Get fit. Like really fit. (Not there yet, but I haven't given up. One of my absolute favorite things about working from home is the ability to go to the Y in the mornings during what would normally be my commute. It is an awesome way to start the day...and certainly is the key to getting fit, like really fit.)
Drop 15-20 pounds. (Same. Not there yet, but haven't given up.)
Play the guitar again/more. (Okay, so when I got really good at the guitar, I was in college at Baylor and I was super lovesick and lonely for Bennett, who was going to school in Vermont. He always asks me why I don't play more and my reason over the last couple years has been "I don't have time..." and that's been true. I also didn't really have a desire to get back into it. But I do now. Davis is SO into music and I think he will freak out when I play for him...even if I am incredibly rusty and have no callouses on my fingers...and I certainly have more time right now.)
Plug into something- find a group or cause I'm passionate about- commit to it and make a difference. (Yes, going to do this here. Need to figure out what that is. I was reading about foster homes last night and it made me feel incredibly sad and I'm not sure we are ready to foster, but if there is something I could do for kids, of pregnant young moms in particular, I really would like to do it. I need to look up some opportunities- I'm going to do that today.)
Stress less. (I'm actually doing brilliantly at this. Seriously. I'm like so stress-free you wouldn't even believe it. Some people are laughing at this because I am not an incredibly stressed person in general, but I still thought at the end of last year that maybe I should chill out a bit. We all should. So anyway- high five to me. Kicking ass on this one.)
Travel more. (Hello- just went to Wisconsin. Seriously though- this is on the agenda for SURE this year...so I'm excited about that. I want to go to Canada and I would like to go to Africa.)
Do something amazing. Shockingly good. Maybe at work. Maybe with aforementioned cause. (Holy shit- I better get on this...time is waning.)
Begin my 2nd authorial endeavor. (Start 2nd book).
(Err, oops, this one too. I have so many ideas- I just don't even know where to begin...)
Be bold. Speak truth. Put myself out there. Be a leader.
(I think I'm doing well on this one. I don't have tangible examples- but it's more of a presence...)
Know God more.
(I talk to God a lot these days. It's a casual conversation, and I certainly should be reading the bible more and/or a devotional or something, but our talks are good, and mostly I'm trying to listen. I say things like "God, please lay on my heart what it is that I should be doing next. Please make it incredibly clear..." and then sometimes, like last week I also say things like "Dear God, please don't let me be pregnant. If I can just NOT be pregnant, I will never forget my birth control again...true story. And don't worry, I'm not pregnant!!!)
Laugh more. (For sure.)
Hurry less. (Boom, done.)
Move! (Holy cow, I had no idea what I was getting into when I put this one on the docket. But here I am in Minneapolis. And isn't that what's fun about life? Surprises? Sometimes I love picturing God giggling at things that I think are certainly going to happen, or not happen. I guarantee I crack him up.)
Love Bennett, Holden and Davis with all of my heart. (YES! And having so much time with them here is really great. Already so thankful for that)
Be more compassionate. (I need to work on this still, I think...but it's not something I have forgotten.)
So what do you think? I think I'm batting like 50% so far...which isn't bad. But I need to turn it up for the rest of the year.
Lets see, what else do I have to tell you, blog? I am going to Atlanta again tomorrow, working, doing a client dinner, and then meeting Courtney's little brother Blake and his girlfriend, Katie, out for drinks after. I'm coming back Friday, and then Saturday I got a sitter and I made reservations at this restaurant called Cafe Lurcat that Krissy recommended. I'm excited to be out with Bennett, trying something new. I hope it's sunny this weekend so we can user our season passes to the little water park too.
OOH, and also the Rennaisance fair is coming up. Bennett thinks it's a total creeper fest- and I do too- but I still want to go. We would always go when I was little and every year I would get one of those flower/branch wreaths with the long ribbons down the back. And I would pretend those ribbons were my incredibly long and flowy hair. When I think about it, I realize that I probably spent 50% of my young life pretending my hair was long...and that I had a retainer. I was so cool.
Happy Wednesday. How are your resolutions coming?
Oh and thanks for the sweet note on my last post, Sommer! Miss you.
But anyway, that is not what I was thinking of. I was thinking mainly that it's the perfect halfway point to check in on my 2013 New Year's Resolutions. I love resolutions. So here is my list from December 2012, with a little commentary in red on where I stand with them.
Get fit. Like really fit. (Not there yet, but I haven't given up. One of my absolute favorite things about working from home is the ability to go to the Y in the mornings during what would normally be my commute. It is an awesome way to start the day...and certainly is the key to getting fit, like really fit.)
Drop 15-20 pounds. (Same. Not there yet, but haven't given up.)
Play the guitar again/more. (Okay, so when I got really good at the guitar, I was in college at Baylor and I was super lovesick and lonely for Bennett, who was going to school in Vermont. He always asks me why I don't play more and my reason over the last couple years has been "I don't have time..." and that's been true. I also didn't really have a desire to get back into it. But I do now. Davis is SO into music and I think he will freak out when I play for him...even if I am incredibly rusty and have no callouses on my fingers...and I certainly have more time right now.)
Plug into something- find a group or cause I'm passionate about- commit to it and make a difference. (Yes, going to do this here. Need to figure out what that is. I was reading about foster homes last night and it made me feel incredibly sad and I'm not sure we are ready to foster, but if there is something I could do for kids, of pregnant young moms in particular, I really would like to do it. I need to look up some opportunities- I'm going to do that today.)
Stress less. (I'm actually doing brilliantly at this. Seriously. I'm like so stress-free you wouldn't even believe it. Some people are laughing at this because I am not an incredibly stressed person in general, but I still thought at the end of last year that maybe I should chill out a bit. We all should. So anyway- high five to me. Kicking ass on this one.)
Travel more. (Hello- just went to Wisconsin. Seriously though- this is on the agenda for SURE this year...so I'm excited about that. I want to go to Canada and I would like to go to Africa.)
Do something amazing. Shockingly good. Maybe at work. Maybe with aforementioned cause. (Holy shit- I better get on this...time is waning.)
Begin my 2nd authorial endeavor. (Start 2nd book).
(Err, oops, this one too. I have so many ideas- I just don't even know where to begin...)
Be bold. Speak truth. Put myself out there. Be a leader.
(I think I'm doing well on this one. I don't have tangible examples- but it's more of a presence...)
Know God more.
(I talk to God a lot these days. It's a casual conversation, and I certainly should be reading the bible more and/or a devotional or something, but our talks are good, and mostly I'm trying to listen. I say things like "God, please lay on my heart what it is that I should be doing next. Please make it incredibly clear..." and then sometimes, like last week I also say things like "Dear God, please don't let me be pregnant. If I can just NOT be pregnant, I will never forget my birth control again...true story. And don't worry, I'm not pregnant!!!)
Laugh more. (For sure.)
Hurry less. (Boom, done.)
Move! (Holy cow, I had no idea what I was getting into when I put this one on the docket. But here I am in Minneapolis. And isn't that what's fun about life? Surprises? Sometimes I love picturing God giggling at things that I think are certainly going to happen, or not happen. I guarantee I crack him up.)
Love Bennett, Holden and Davis with all of my heart. (YES! And having so much time with them here is really great. Already so thankful for that)
Be more compassionate. (I need to work on this still, I think...but it's not something I have forgotten.)
So what do you think? I think I'm batting like 50% so far...which isn't bad. But I need to turn it up for the rest of the year.
Lets see, what else do I have to tell you, blog? I am going to Atlanta again tomorrow, working, doing a client dinner, and then meeting Courtney's little brother Blake and his girlfriend, Katie, out for drinks after. I'm coming back Friday, and then Saturday I got a sitter and I made reservations at this restaurant called Cafe Lurcat that Krissy recommended. I'm excited to be out with Bennett, trying something new. I hope it's sunny this weekend so we can user our season passes to the little water park too.
OOH, and also the Rennaisance fair is coming up. Bennett thinks it's a total creeper fest- and I do too- but I still want to go. We would always go when I was little and every year I would get one of those flower/branch wreaths with the long ribbons down the back. And I would pretend those ribbons were my incredibly long and flowy hair. When I think about it, I realize that I probably spent 50% of my young life pretending my hair was long...and that I had a retainer. I was so cool.
Happy Wednesday. How are your resolutions coming?
Oh and thanks for the sweet note on my last post, Sommer! Miss you.
7/30/13
Confidence.
The idea of confidence has been on my mind a lot lately...for two reasons, really. The first is that while we were driving to Hudson Wisconsin the other day, Bennett and I were talking about Davis and Holden and what they will be like and what will make them happy and how important it is to figure that out rather than project things on them...
And the second is that I recently reconnected with one of my best friends from my youth, and the topic of confidence came up again...and whether or not I am as confident as I come across...and it certainly caused me to think about my own confidence, where it came from, etc.
When talking to Bennett, I said something like "I mean, I have always believed I could do or be anything I wanted to be. Like really, anything. Always. I know that comes from my mom, but I don't remember the articulation of it. I think it was less of what she said, and more of what she did." For example, in kindergarten, when I wanted to be 'Sam' she got on board. I'm 32 and still Sam. When I told everyone I wanted to be a squirrel when I grew up, she didn't correct me or make fun. When I wanted to be a mechanic, she gave me her dish washing gloves and let me tinker in the garage for hours. When I was in the 6th grade, and I was CERTAIN I was as good as Michael Jordan when it came to basketball, she just encouraged me, saying I would certainly be so good.
Not to say I don't have insecurities, I'm human. Of course I do, but man, what a gift my mom has given me, and my sister too. Watching them both, so smart, so capable, so focused on going after the things they love...has made a huge difference in who I am.
Bennett and I also talked about Holden, and how tough it is to be a girl, and have so much focus on being pretty. That's also something we NEVER talked about. I didn't realize it until I said that aloud to Bennett. My mom never suggested we put effort into being pretty...that we try hard to be pretty. I mean, it didn't even occur to me until college that it was unusual to show up EVERYWHERE with soaking wet hair and sans makeup. I sort of felt like that was what everyone did. Now, she did tell us we looked cute and things...and we weren't total slobs. We dressed cute and wanted to look nice and feel comfortable, but but being pretty was never our focus.
I hope I can do the same for Holden. I hope I can encourage her and show her that some of the most beautiful people, the most sought after people, are simply the most interesting people. The people with confidence, with some sort of zhuz. I hope I can live a life that shows her that too.
And I hope Davis is attracted to people that are interesting, challenging, inspiring. Not pretty, but beautiful. Inside and out. As cliche as that sounds.
All of these thoughts made me think about this:
And that's what I'm trying to do. Not just for them though...but because I don't get to do this again and I want to make sure I use my time working at being who I want to be. Which made me think of this:
And the second is that I recently reconnected with one of my best friends from my youth, and the topic of confidence came up again...and whether or not I am as confident as I come across...and it certainly caused me to think about my own confidence, where it came from, etc.
When talking to Bennett, I said something like "I mean, I have always believed I could do or be anything I wanted to be. Like really, anything. Always. I know that comes from my mom, but I don't remember the articulation of it. I think it was less of what she said, and more of what she did." For example, in kindergarten, when I wanted to be 'Sam' she got on board. I'm 32 and still Sam. When I told everyone I wanted to be a squirrel when I grew up, she didn't correct me or make fun. When I wanted to be a mechanic, she gave me her dish washing gloves and let me tinker in the garage for hours. When I was in the 6th grade, and I was CERTAIN I was as good as Michael Jordan when it came to basketball, she just encouraged me, saying I would certainly be so good.
Not to say I don't have insecurities, I'm human. Of course I do, but man, what a gift my mom has given me, and my sister too. Watching them both, so smart, so capable, so focused on going after the things they love...has made a huge difference in who I am.
Bennett and I also talked about Holden, and how tough it is to be a girl, and have so much focus on being pretty. That's also something we NEVER talked about. I didn't realize it until I said that aloud to Bennett. My mom never suggested we put effort into being pretty...that we try hard to be pretty. I mean, it didn't even occur to me until college that it was unusual to show up EVERYWHERE with soaking wet hair and sans makeup. I sort of felt like that was what everyone did. Now, she did tell us we looked cute and things...and we weren't total slobs. We dressed cute and wanted to look nice and feel comfortable, but but being pretty was never our focus.
I hope I can do the same for Holden. I hope I can encourage her and show her that some of the most beautiful people, the most sought after people, are simply the most interesting people. The people with confidence, with some sort of zhuz. I hope I can live a life that shows her that too.
And I hope Davis is attracted to people that are interesting, challenging, inspiring. Not pretty, but beautiful. Inside and out. As cliche as that sounds.
All of these thoughts made me think about this:
And that's what I'm trying to do. Not just for them though...but because I don't get to do this again and I want to make sure I use my time working at being who I want to be. Which made me think of this:
I believe it, believe it with all my heart. And I think if you're really living, it should feel like you are constantly doing the things that God placed in your heart when he made you YOU.
And I don't know if this makes sense to anyone else, but it does to me. It gives me a happy heart, as Davis would say.
7/29/13
Sweet Holden Eloise
was home with a low grade fever today...it was nice to spend time alone with her. she is so sweet when she is sick, she really tries to smile and be happy, no matter how horrible she feels.
Now davis, he is a bit different when he is sick. he really just needs everyone to understand exactly how horrible he feels...all. day. long. he reminds me of me in that sense. ha.
Speaking of davis, we had so much fun tonight. we played catch, we ate some pizza, we cleaned off the back porch and then we had fun talking about Qubert, for about an hour. Who is Qubert? A fly that was flying around while Davis was in the bath. I started saying things like "I think that fly is just waiting for you to get out of the bath so he can take one..." Davis was so intrigued, so of course I created a whole life for Qubert and the night ended with us laying out pajamas for him (Q) to borrow, and talking through what we would serve him for breakfast. Pizza, of course.
Not much to say today other than that- it was kind of boring...just called in sick to work, ran some errands, took a nap, and then went to the YMCA.
back in the saddle tomorrow, i hope.
peace out.
Now davis, he is a bit different when he is sick. he really just needs everyone to understand exactly how horrible he feels...all. day. long. he reminds me of me in that sense. ha.
Speaking of davis, we had so much fun tonight. we played catch, we ate some pizza, we cleaned off the back porch and then we had fun talking about Qubert, for about an hour. Who is Qubert? A fly that was flying around while Davis was in the bath. I started saying things like "I think that fly is just waiting for you to get out of the bath so he can take one..." Davis was so intrigued, so of course I created a whole life for Qubert and the night ended with us laying out pajamas for him (Q) to borrow, and talking through what we would serve him for breakfast. Pizza, of course.
Not much to say today other than that- it was kind of boring...just called in sick to work, ran some errands, took a nap, and then went to the YMCA.
back in the saddle tomorrow, i hope.
peace out.
7/28/13
Three Strikes, You're Out
And I'm not talking about t-ball here, folks. We have all but decided that it will be better for the Bennett 4 if we don't EVER go back to t-ball. I'm talking about some new rules at our house. We have talked a lot about it lately and have realized that Davis is tough because he's not really afraid of anything. Yelling doesn't work (nor is it pleasant or a good habit), we don't spank, taking toys away is not a big deal to him, and threats are also not the best practice, nor does he seem to be bothered by them at all.
The one thing that really gets his goat is when he can't play with us. So, Friday, for example, he was just being such a pill so Bennett removed him from the playroom and he cried and screamed while watching through the windowed doors while the three of us played without him. So our new thing is "3 strikes, you're out..." three incidents, in a short period of time, and he's simply removed from the situation. It. Kills. Him. VICTORY.
Also, 3 strikes you're well, IN, at bedtime. Meaning, if he gets out of bed three times- his door is locked. We had this problem of constantly wanting to give him another chance- and he could read that- so we're trying to be super tough and stick to the three chances. He totally gets it. In fact, just five minutes ago he came out of his room and I said "Davis- I'm going to lock your door..." and he said "No, that's just strike one, mom." :-/
So that's that, and/but we had a great weekend even though it sounds like Guantanamo around here. Saturday was rainy so we went out for brunch and then played at the house. Saturday night I took Davis to see Turbo- which is really cute- and then today we decided to take a day trip to Hudson, Wisconsin. That's right- we're cheeseheads now. It's official. Also, we are going to make a Minnesota bucket list and try to accomplish all of it before we head back to the ATX.
Anyway, it was gorgeous and lovely outside and we just played at the park by the St. Croix river, which I constantly referred to as the "Hudson River" all day like a total geographic know-it-all...and then we came home and played Fireman Sam. I basically had to sing the theme song over and over for a good 45 minutes, with the only breaks being used to shout "FIREMAN SAM! THERE'S a FIRE IN THE KITCHEN!!!"
Davis is in Dallas tonight through Tuesday- and he gets to see B since they're going to the same conference. I'm excited for him. He just called me and said "Oh man, it feels good to be back. And I don't even like Dallas." :-)
Anyway, here are some stills from the weekend. Stills...doesn't that make me sound so sophisticated?
Probably because Davis and I have been speaking to each other for the last hour (outside of playing Fireman Sam) with amazing british accents...all while wearing his dad's giant sombrero.
The one thing that really gets his goat is when he can't play with us. So, Friday, for example, he was just being such a pill so Bennett removed him from the playroom and he cried and screamed while watching through the windowed doors while the three of us played without him. So our new thing is "3 strikes, you're out..." three incidents, in a short period of time, and he's simply removed from the situation. It. Kills. Him. VICTORY.
Also, 3 strikes you're well, IN, at bedtime. Meaning, if he gets out of bed three times- his door is locked. We had this problem of constantly wanting to give him another chance- and he could read that- so we're trying to be super tough and stick to the three chances. He totally gets it. In fact, just five minutes ago he came out of his room and I said "Davis- I'm going to lock your door..." and he said "No, that's just strike one, mom." :-/
So that's that, and/but we had a great weekend even though it sounds like Guantanamo around here. Saturday was rainy so we went out for brunch and then played at the house. Saturday night I took Davis to see Turbo- which is really cute- and then today we decided to take a day trip to Hudson, Wisconsin. That's right- we're cheeseheads now. It's official. Also, we are going to make a Minnesota bucket list and try to accomplish all of it before we head back to the ATX.
Anyway, it was gorgeous and lovely outside and we just played at the park by the St. Croix river, which I constantly referred to as the "Hudson River" all day like a total geographic know-it-all...and then we came home and played Fireman Sam. I basically had to sing the theme song over and over for a good 45 minutes, with the only breaks being used to shout "FIREMAN SAM! THERE'S a FIRE IN THE KITCHEN!!!"
Davis is in Dallas tonight through Tuesday- and he gets to see B since they're going to the same conference. I'm excited for him. He just called me and said "Oh man, it feels good to be back. And I don't even like Dallas." :-)
Anyway, here are some stills from the weekend. Stills...doesn't that make me sound so sophisticated?
Probably because Davis and I have been speaking to each other for the last hour (outside of playing Fireman Sam) with amazing british accents...all while wearing his dad's giant sombrero.
Play date at the indoor playground. Three stories tall and sort of like a crazy jungle/tree maze.
umm. i'm not really sure about climbing in there with you.
really, i won't do anything that warrants a strike. i promise.
i love this photo. it says just about everything about her. a little bit pink striped pajamas pants, a little bit home depot apron, and a lot spiderman.
surveying all she will conquer...
the hudson st. croix river. and holden.
the world is your oyster, little one. jump in.
7/27/13
55
You might think 55 means something like the amount of miles we biked today, or the cost of a great sweater I got at a hot sale, or even the number of boxes it took to pack up our home. Because I'm sure you were NOT thinking that 55 might be the temperature here today. That would be crazy.
Well welcome to crazy town. I am writing this, wearing shorts, a long sleeved shirt, with a sweater over the top. And I was chilly most of the day. Everyone here cannot figure out what is going on- I mean- it was 98 and humid last week...but still, I'm like "Oh wow. Here we go..."
It beats 105. But I would like a FEW more weeks of summer if at all possible, Minnesota. Please and thank you.
Today I took a couple hours to myself to run some errands- I went to see if I could find some long sleeved tees and pants for Holden. Since she hasn't had to wear those since January, she has definitely grown out of those she has. I also stopped by a little vintage store called "Piccadilly Parade" or something like that, and then, of course, Anthropologie.
I actually didn't find much, but I enjoyed wandering around during this rainy, chilly day, in a new city. There is one thing I will say...even though some days I'm sad, I'm pretty proud of myself, and even surprised by myself for being here. And maybe in that way alone, it's worth it.
I did find one little pair of earrings that I thought would brighten the day...
Well welcome to crazy town. I am writing this, wearing shorts, a long sleeved shirt, with a sweater over the top. And I was chilly most of the day. Everyone here cannot figure out what is going on- I mean- it was 98 and humid last week...but still, I'm like "Oh wow. Here we go..."
It beats 105. But I would like a FEW more weeks of summer if at all possible, Minnesota. Please and thank you.
Today I took a couple hours to myself to run some errands- I went to see if I could find some long sleeved tees and pants for Holden. Since she hasn't had to wear those since January, she has definitely grown out of those she has. I also stopped by a little vintage store called "Piccadilly Parade" or something like that, and then, of course, Anthropologie.
I actually didn't find much, but I enjoyed wandering around during this rainy, chilly day, in a new city. There is one thing I will say...even though some days I'm sad, I'm pretty proud of myself, and even surprised by myself for being here. And maybe in that way alone, it's worth it.
I did find one little pair of earrings that I thought would brighten the day...
Not sure the picture really does them justice- they look sort of grandma-y here...but just trust me gals, they are very cool in person.
Hope you're having a great weekend. I promise to take more pictures of the beans tomorrow to post.
7/26/13
Interesting Things About Minne
I've recognized some interesting things around these parts. At least they are interesting to me...and some of them are simply curious because my expectations were different, while others, I believe are just interesting in their own right.
Minnesota is surprisingly progressive. Or at least Minneapolis is...for example:
First: It's an incredibly liberal city- it is in the top three cities for GLBT- and it's largely democratic. The people here are appalled about how Texas is handling the abortion bill. Seriously- the other day a girl came to our door to get a signature in support of pro choice and one of her comments was that without support from the people- we could "end up like Texas."
Secondly: It's incredibly progressive when it comes to innovation and technology. In fact, I think this city is ahead of Austin- which is saying a lot since Austin is supposed to be so tech-centric. Not only is education amazing here, but they offer free public online school programs for any and all kids grades K-12. That's pretty incredible.
And at the airport, there are whole lounges, cafes and bars that have an iPad at every table- for your use. Also at the airport- you can choose whether to get a paper card showing where you parked, and then pay the clerk like normal, OR you can submit your card upfront, and then just submit it again at the end electronically- for a $2 per hour discount.
Thirdly: There are so many cool vintage shops, mom and pop businesses, and amazing boutiques and restaurants. It's a very forward thinking city with great design and style. And I know that anyone that follows design knows that already, but I am still surprised.
Fourth: It's a big city, with many types of people and influences. I know this makes me sound like a sheltered white girl, but it is different to me, how when we go to parks or public places, there are occasionally kids with their hair wrapped up in turbans and lately I've seen some hacidic jewish kids, with the curls and everything. You think Austin is a big city with lots of influences, but it might be a bit more homogenous than I thought. And I also just didn't expect such a melting pot vibe in the midwest.
Fifth: People are really helpful. That is like the best way to describe them. Texas has friendly. We really do. Minnesota has helpful. It's not like "Hey y'all!" with a big grin, it's more like sincere offers to help and then you can see people's pleasure when they can tell they've given you information or done something to help you out. It's interesting seeing that difference. Texas people are way more outgoing and friendly, but less intent to help or do something (I would almost say we seem "lazier" but maybe it's because everyone is so damn hot- ha), where it seems Minnesota people are more reserved, but seriously sincere about helping each other out.
Sixth: People really are more fit here. You can see it everywhere you go. I look around me all the time and think "Geez, the people are really pretty here..." I think there is a bigger focus on health and fitness...and outdoorsyness here, and I knew that coming in...but I didn't realize how noticeable it would be. And it's at every age- like I said- my YMCA is always full of older people just cranking away on the exercise equipment.
So those are my observations thus far.
We had a great play date with Krissy, Charlie and Kate. I really like her- and hope I have a new friend. They invited us over in a few weekends for a BBQ with some of their other friends. It's so kind, I'm almost suspicious. Ha.
Minnesota is surprisingly progressive. Or at least Minneapolis is...for example:
First: It's an incredibly liberal city- it is in the top three cities for GLBT- and it's largely democratic. The people here are appalled about how Texas is handling the abortion bill. Seriously- the other day a girl came to our door to get a signature in support of pro choice and one of her comments was that without support from the people- we could "end up like Texas."
Secondly: It's incredibly progressive when it comes to innovation and technology. In fact, I think this city is ahead of Austin- which is saying a lot since Austin is supposed to be so tech-centric. Not only is education amazing here, but they offer free public online school programs for any and all kids grades K-12. That's pretty incredible.
And at the airport, there are whole lounges, cafes and bars that have an iPad at every table- for your use. Also at the airport- you can choose whether to get a paper card showing where you parked, and then pay the clerk like normal, OR you can submit your card upfront, and then just submit it again at the end electronically- for a $2 per hour discount.
Thirdly: There are so many cool vintage shops, mom and pop businesses, and amazing boutiques and restaurants. It's a very forward thinking city with great design and style. And I know that anyone that follows design knows that already, but I am still surprised.
Fourth: It's a big city, with many types of people and influences. I know this makes me sound like a sheltered white girl, but it is different to me, how when we go to parks or public places, there are occasionally kids with their hair wrapped up in turbans and lately I've seen some hacidic jewish kids, with the curls and everything. You think Austin is a big city with lots of influences, but it might be a bit more homogenous than I thought. And I also just didn't expect such a melting pot vibe in the midwest.
Fifth: People are really helpful. That is like the best way to describe them. Texas has friendly. We really do. Minnesota has helpful. It's not like "Hey y'all!" with a big grin, it's more like sincere offers to help and then you can see people's pleasure when they can tell they've given you information or done something to help you out. It's interesting seeing that difference. Texas people are way more outgoing and friendly, but less intent to help or do something (I would almost say we seem "lazier" but maybe it's because everyone is so damn hot- ha), where it seems Minnesota people are more reserved, but seriously sincere about helping each other out.
Sixth: People really are more fit here. You can see it everywhere you go. I look around me all the time and think "Geez, the people are really pretty here..." I think there is a bigger focus on health and fitness...and outdoorsyness here, and I knew that coming in...but I didn't realize how noticeable it would be. And it's at every age- like I said- my YMCA is always full of older people just cranking away on the exercise equipment.
So those are my observations thus far.
We had a great play date with Krissy, Charlie and Kate. I really like her- and hope I have a new friend. They invited us over in a few weekends for a BBQ with some of their other friends. It's so kind, I'm almost suspicious. Ha.
7/25/13
0 for 2
T-Ball Thursday. Or...
Train wreck Thursday. Or...
Tantrum Thursday. Or...
Turd head Thursday.
Take your pick.
We are 0 for 2 on T-ball. Davis has zero interest in it and I think Bennett and I each spent more time on the field tonight than Davis did. It's annoying. It's disappointing. And it's frustrating. Annoying because we are literally chasing an almost four year old all over the diamond and beyond. It's disappointing because we thought he would love this and it would be fun for everyone. And it's frustrating because it makes you feel like a bad parent when your kid is seriously the only ONE who will do nothing that is asked of him out there.
On the way home (which was halfway through the game, by the way) Bennett said "I feel like a failure as a parent. I just have zero patience for this. Did we do something wrong?"
And I tried to encourage him that some of the things that make Davis tough to parent are also the same things that will make him an awesome human being. Okay, maybe not beaking the kid next to him in the head with the brim of his helmet...those things I blame squarely on Bennett...but other things. His independence. His confidence. His self awareness.
But it can be really challenging, this parenting thing.
I remember in high school, Kirsten and I would talk about how we both wanted to have little boys that were total bruisers...little shits that were always up to something sneaky and clever. She went as far as saying she wanted a chubby little red head. Weird how things work out. Sometimes I just want to call her and say "How's that working for ya? It's pretty damn tough over here."
Here are some pictures his teachers have sent me. They send more than Holden's do- I think because he has had some tough drop-offs and they want to show me he is happy. I am obsessed with his new school by the way- makes Child's Day look like amateur hour.
But there wouldn't be joy without challenge, right?
Anyway, enough about Davis. Tomorrow the three of us have a playdate with Krissy, her kids, and one of her friends and her kids. We're going to go to the park and then do a picnic lunch. I hope it's as fun as the other night was. I hope Davis doesn't shove anyone. Zoinks.
Tomorrow I'll post some pictures from Nikki's wedding, courtesy of Sweet Louise Photography. And/or you can pop over to her blog and check them out yourself, just click HERE and leave Carrie a little love.
By the way, I talked to Carrie on the phone today and it made me miss my girls so much. They're all getting together for a glass of wine tonight...what I wouldn't give...
Train wreck Thursday. Or...
Tantrum Thursday. Or...
Turd head Thursday.
Take your pick.
We are 0 for 2 on T-ball. Davis has zero interest in it and I think Bennett and I each spent more time on the field tonight than Davis did. It's annoying. It's disappointing. And it's frustrating. Annoying because we are literally chasing an almost four year old all over the diamond and beyond. It's disappointing because we thought he would love this and it would be fun for everyone. And it's frustrating because it makes you feel like a bad parent when your kid is seriously the only ONE who will do nothing that is asked of him out there.
On the way home (which was halfway through the game, by the way) Bennett said "I feel like a failure as a parent. I just have zero patience for this. Did we do something wrong?"
And I tried to encourage him that some of the things that make Davis tough to parent are also the same things that will make him an awesome human being. Okay, maybe not beaking the kid next to him in the head with the brim of his helmet...those things I blame squarely on Bennett...but other things. His independence. His confidence. His self awareness.
But it can be really challenging, this parenting thing.
I remember in high school, Kirsten and I would talk about how we both wanted to have little boys that were total bruisers...little shits that were always up to something sneaky and clever. She went as far as saying she wanted a chubby little red head. Weird how things work out. Sometimes I just want to call her and say "How's that working for ya? It's pretty damn tough over here."
Here are some pictures his teachers have sent me. They send more than Holden's do- I think because he has had some tough drop-offs and they want to show me he is happy. I am obsessed with his new school by the way- makes Child's Day look like amateur hour.
I'm sure Honey will love this shirt. Gift from Bennett's boss.
Lets be honest. The kid just looks like trouble.
But there wouldn't be joy without challenge, right?
Anyway, enough about Davis. Tomorrow the three of us have a playdate with Krissy, her kids, and one of her friends and her kids. We're going to go to the park and then do a picnic lunch. I hope it's as fun as the other night was. I hope Davis doesn't shove anyone. Zoinks.
Tomorrow I'll post some pictures from Nikki's wedding, courtesy of Sweet Louise Photography. And/or you can pop over to her blog and check them out yourself, just click HERE and leave Carrie a little love.
By the way, I talked to Carrie on the phone today and it made me miss my girls so much. They're all getting together for a glass of wine tonight...what I wouldn't give...
7/23/13
Airport Inspiration
Maybe it was the saxophonist playing "Time after Time" or the giant tin Michelob Ultra I had at Chili's Too, but I found quite a bit of inspiration in the Minneapolis airport today. I had a lot of thoughts. I'm going to share some of them, though some I knew even immediately were fleeting, while others, I believe, will stick.
I feel really happy about all of these inspirations and realizations. I am a work in progress, but every time I think, try, do something new, I feel a little bit proud of myself, like I'm really becoming the person I would like to be- the best version of myself. Hopefully I'm on to something.
I guess we'll see.
- Bennett and I were talking the other day about getting a hobby we can do together. We talked through a bunch and decided that we will first try either couples tennis lessons/tennis club or cooking lessons. I'm sort of thinking tennis will be a better one- if we like it- it is something we can do all year (indoor/outdoor) and it also might be a great way to meet people if we do a club. Plus- plays well into 100 Days of Health.
- I also realized at the airport, and in talking with my mom this week while she was here, that we really should go on a big trip this spring, Bennett and I. I'm still thinking Africa. And today, in gate G, I decided we should certainly stay on an elephant preserve. Elephants are unreal animals- they have emotions and memories like humans. It's insane.
- I'm not sure what I want to do next. I have a 2nd interview with a gig here in Minne this Thursday and some moments I'm really excited about it. Other moments I'm like "I'm not going back to work full-time...I will do consulting or something and then I will spend the rest of my time doing things that I am just super interested in." Like take some classes, work out, do interesting things with Davis and Holden, volunteer for something I really care about, write...
- I'm intentionally being a bit more selfish here in Minne. In a good way. That sounds off, I'm sure...like I need an intervention. But I feel like it's very positive. I'm spending less time just DOING things and more time thinking about what I WANT to do and what would be good for me. For instance, I think sometimes, even with the most helpful husband (and Bennett really is...) it's easy as a mom (even a working mom) to do WAY more than your fair share...and it's caused stress and resentment and I just decided I'm not going to do that anymore. I'm going to be more direct and I'm going to leave more for him to handle and I'm just going to stress less about it. A few examples- I just informed Bennett that doing the laundry for a family of four is not a one person job. We're going to share that responsibility. Same for managing the budget- not just me anymore- we're both going to manage it. I'm sure you're wondering how he responded- and his face was pretty priceless for a second- but then he was a real gem about it. Said he understood and is game to help.
I feel really happy about all of these inspirations and realizations. I am a work in progress, but every time I think, try, do something new, I feel a little bit proud of myself, like I'm really becoming the person I would like to be- the best version of myself. Hopefully I'm on to something.
I guess we'll see.
Minnehaha Falls
We ventured out to Minnehaha Falls on Honey's last night in town, Sunday. It was so beautiful, green, fresh, and just the smell alone was enchanting. I think that is the thing I like best here- you really want to be outside a lot. There are a zillion parks, great pools, bike trails, and the weather is so great. I can see why it's both the fittest and most outdoorsy city. I hope we still feel so active and adventurous this winter. We'll see...
Happy Tuesday. Headed out on a work trip in a bit. Back tomorrow evening. P.S. Today's drop-off was awesome- both for Holden and Davis. So thankful.
Happy Tuesday. Headed out on a work trip in a bit. Back tomorrow evening. P.S. Today's drop-off was awesome- both for Holden and Davis. So thankful.
I love this picture of Holden. And man, what I wouldn't give for her hair color. Lucky gal.
7/22/13
T-Ball, Junk Shops, and Blind Dates
Davis had his first t-ball game this Thursday. I was so excited to see him interact with a coach and team and I thought he would get really into it, considering he had a new "uniform" (YMCA shirt) and baseball glove. Honey, Holden, Davis and I headed to the fields and introduced him to his coach and some of his teammates. About five minutes later he walked over and said "I just want to stay by you, mom."
After some encouragement, and one glance at all the helmets, he popped a helmet on his head and was out on the field. For a moment anyway. The kids began to warm up and of course it was chaos- a team of three year olds- but for the most part, when Coach Paul said "run to the base" the kids ran to the base. Not Davis...he went and introduced himself to different people, he went and tried out all the bats, he came over and said "hi" to Honey and I about 5 times. He just wasn't into it. It was funny watching him because it's not like he was defiant, but he just didn't feel interested in what was going on, so he did his own thing. When I told Bennett this, he immediately said "Oh. Hmmm. I wonder who he got that from." Okay fine- that is so me. I hate spending time doing boring things.
And I think we picked the wrong sport- I don't blame him. You have to wait about 20 minutes to get your turn at bat- boring. Then when you're done batting just one time- you have to go stand in the field and wait for the ball- which by the way is never going to get that far because the players are as big as the bats- boring boring boring. I think we should have signed him up for a faster paced sport. We'll see how it goes this week.
Friday, my mom and I had the best day...we went to this cute little street and looked at several antique and junk shops. There was one called Hunt & Gather that we could have spent all day in. Then we had lunch at a cute little deli called Broder's where we had a great salad and Margherita pizza. I've been pretty homesick this past week, but I have to give this city some credit...lots of great things to do and see.
Speaking of homesick, Friday night both Bennett and I were both so down and out and wishing we were back in Austin, so we just went and had a beer at a little tavern down the street.
Then Saturday night, we went on our first blind double date.
Yes, seriously.
We went to this cute little restaurant, Cafe Maude, to meet up with Krissy and Patrick, this couple that one of my clients introduced me to. They live in Edina too, and have a little boy who is 4 and a little girl who is 18 months. Coincidence? Bennett and I joked the whole way there about code words and things we were going to do if it was completely awkward. But listen, it was actually really fun. We sat there from 7 to 11, just drinking wine, laughing and talking.
I know- can you believe it? Like we were ourselves, and they laughed a lot and they were fun too. They even invited us over for drinks after, but I wanted to end on a high and not overdo it, so we went home instead. We left sort of giddy...Bennett and I were both just so excited that we might have friends. It gave me such hope. They already invited us over again- so I think our efforts to be witty and charming were successful. Ha.
Though I did say something at one point that I was like "Oh. Oops. Maybe I should have waited on that one..." something about how I went to get a pedicure the other day and the massage was so hard core I didn't know if I was going to cry or have an orgasm. Yep, oops. Maybe I should have waited. Oh well. Just gotta be yourself.
Honey left this morning- such a bummer- but we had a great time together and she'll be back soon. Davis kept saying "You need to get your own Minneapolis" to her- which we thought was funny. He also said this in the car yesterday on the way to Minnehaha Falls...
While looking at his dirty feet: "I'm dirty. Big Davis and I are both dirty. We are sorta dirty. But Honey and Holden, they are...they are precious." I've never even heard him say "precious" before, so it was so funny and so sweet.
He has also taken to calling his dad "Big Davis" which is really funny to hear. The other day I said something about Davis taking a nap and he goes "Wait- big Davis or little Davis?"
Oh also, 100 Days of Health update: I've lost about 4-5 pounds since being here and I'm enjoying working out at the Y every day. I love the YMCA. I love how many kids events and sports teams there are. I love the classes for me, and I love that there are a lot of older people working out there- just kicking ass and taking names.
More tomorrow!
After some encouragement, and one glance at all the helmets, he popped a helmet on his head and was out on the field. For a moment anyway. The kids began to warm up and of course it was chaos- a team of three year olds- but for the most part, when Coach Paul said "run to the base" the kids ran to the base. Not Davis...he went and introduced himself to different people, he went and tried out all the bats, he came over and said "hi" to Honey and I about 5 times. He just wasn't into it. It was funny watching him because it's not like he was defiant, but he just didn't feel interested in what was going on, so he did his own thing. When I told Bennett this, he immediately said "Oh. Hmmm. I wonder who he got that from." Okay fine- that is so me. I hate spending time doing boring things.
And I think we picked the wrong sport- I don't blame him. You have to wait about 20 minutes to get your turn at bat- boring. Then when you're done batting just one time- you have to go stand in the field and wait for the ball- which by the way is never going to get that far because the players are as big as the bats- boring boring boring. I think we should have signed him up for a faster paced sport. We'll see how it goes this week.
Friday, my mom and I had the best day...we went to this cute little street and looked at several antique and junk shops. There was one called Hunt & Gather that we could have spent all day in. Then we had lunch at a cute little deli called Broder's where we had a great salad and Margherita pizza. I've been pretty homesick this past week, but I have to give this city some credit...lots of great things to do and see.
How cute is that chair?
It is so much happier in it's new space...at my house!
It is so much happier in it's new space...at my house!
Speaking of homesick, Friday night both Bennett and I were both so down and out and wishing we were back in Austin, so we just went and had a beer at a little tavern down the street.
Then Saturday night, we went on our first blind double date.
Yes, seriously.
We went to this cute little restaurant, Cafe Maude, to meet up with Krissy and Patrick, this couple that one of my clients introduced me to. They live in Edina too, and have a little boy who is 4 and a little girl who is 18 months. Coincidence? Bennett and I joked the whole way there about code words and things we were going to do if it was completely awkward. But listen, it was actually really fun. We sat there from 7 to 11, just drinking wine, laughing and talking.
I know- can you believe it? Like we were ourselves, and they laughed a lot and they were fun too. They even invited us over for drinks after, but I wanted to end on a high and not overdo it, so we went home instead. We left sort of giddy...Bennett and I were both just so excited that we might have friends. It gave me such hope. They already invited us over again- so I think our efforts to be witty and charming were successful. Ha.
Though I did say something at one point that I was like "Oh. Oops. Maybe I should have waited on that one..." something about how I went to get a pedicure the other day and the massage was so hard core I didn't know if I was going to cry or have an orgasm. Yep, oops. Maybe I should have waited. Oh well. Just gotta be yourself.
Honey left this morning- such a bummer- but we had a great time together and she'll be back soon. Davis kept saying "You need to get your own Minneapolis" to her- which we thought was funny. He also said this in the car yesterday on the way to Minnehaha Falls...
While looking at his dirty feet: "I'm dirty. Big Davis and I are both dirty. We are sorta dirty. But Honey and Holden, they are...they are precious." I've never even heard him say "precious" before, so it was so funny and so sweet.
He has also taken to calling his dad "Big Davis" which is really funny to hear. The other day I said something about Davis taking a nap and he goes "Wait- big Davis or little Davis?"
Oh also, 100 Days of Health update: I've lost about 4-5 pounds since being here and I'm enjoying working out at the Y every day. I love the YMCA. I love how many kids events and sports teams there are. I love the classes for me, and I love that there are a lot of older people working out there- just kicking ass and taking names.
More tomorrow!
7/18/13
A Good Find.
I have recently been scoping pillows like this, on pinterest:
Love the look and texture and layers of these pillows. I wouldn't pair them with that couch, but that is neither here nor there. Anyway- pillows like this usually retail around $100+ each.
Unless you go to IKEA. Where you can find this great little number for $10. Yes, $10.
Just thought I would share this great find with you. Also a few notes on my day.
1) The girl emailed me about getting together on Saturday- so I stand corrected. We are not being stood up. I need to get my patience and optimism in check. Hope is everything.
2) Davis had a GREAT day at school yesterday- easy drop off and the happiest of faces when I picked him up. So did Holden. They were just in great moods and were so sweet and fun all night. Today, Davis had a horrible drop off. Cried and kicked and screamed and it felt horrible. But I hope he will tell me he had a great day again...
3) Today is D's first T-ball game. Can't wait to see how that goes. And Bennett gets home tonight. :-)
More later.
Love the look and texture and layers of these pillows. I wouldn't pair them with that couch, but that is neither here nor there. Anyway- pillows like this usually retail around $100+ each.
Unless you go to IKEA. Where you can find this great little number for $10. Yes, $10.
Just thought I would share this great find with you. Also a few notes on my day.
1) The girl emailed me about getting together on Saturday- so I stand corrected. We are not being stood up. I need to get my patience and optimism in check. Hope is everything.
2) Davis had a GREAT day at school yesterday- easy drop off and the happiest of faces when I picked him up. So did Holden. They were just in great moods and were so sweet and fun all night. Today, Davis had a horrible drop off. Cried and kicked and screamed and it felt horrible. But I hope he will tell me he had a great day again...
3) Today is D's first T-ball game. Can't wait to see how that goes. And Bennett gets home tonight. :-)
More later.
7/17/13
Okay, I'm over it.
Yesterday, I just had this constant feeling of "Okay, I'm over this. I'm ready to go home..." It's the worst feeling and I'm not sure what triggered it but I know my mom could tell because she asked if she was bothering me. And oh my gosh- I would be so sad this week while Bennett is in Boston if she wasn't here- it has nothing to do with her- but more like "Okay, I miss my home, I miss my friends, I miss my routine, I miss knowing where to go to get and do certain things...I'm ready for vacation to be over.
Only it's not vacation.
I am just trying to keep busy and focus on the positive. It just seems long and unending- especially until I get into a work scenario and I am around people more. I think we're probably getting stood up by that couple we were going to go to dinner with this weekend. I don't blame her- I mean, we're total strangers and they probably have a bazillion fun friends. She was going to email me to let me know whether Friday or Saturday was better. And it's Wednesday. But who knows...maybe I'm wrong.
Today in the shower, I said to God "Okay God, I need something interesting to happen today..." and then I got all excited thinking "Great- something will happen. I just told my old pal God." And then I had this abrupt realization..."You don't get to tell God what you think you need Sam...He gets to tell you." Hmmph. And this made me realize that I have to be faithful and patient and it also made me think "Good Lord (no pun) what if he thinks I don't need something interesting and momentous to happen? I'll just die of boredom..."
I literally am on the verge of creating an imaginary friend.
How sad is that?
Anyway. Enough hum glum. Today we are taking Honey to Snuffy's because Davis thinks that is just the best place to go...and tomorrow it's Davis' first t-ball game. I am so excited about that. Can't wait to see him in his little uniform- he is on team two- the Seals team. Tonight I'm going to show him videos of kids playing t-ball so he has some sort of idea.
Nikki sent Davis the cutest series of pictures talking about how BIG everything is in Argentina. I showed him last night and he loved it. Couldn't even believe some of the pictures and thought it was hysterical how big the ice cream cone Tony was eating was. There is one special picture of Nikki where she just looks SOOO pretty. I had been thinking it to myself...and all of the sudden Davis said shyly: "Nikki is pretty to me." He adores her.
Here are some of the pictures she sent over.
Only it's not vacation.
I am just trying to keep busy and focus on the positive. It just seems long and unending- especially until I get into a work scenario and I am around people more. I think we're probably getting stood up by that couple we were going to go to dinner with this weekend. I don't blame her- I mean, we're total strangers and they probably have a bazillion fun friends. She was going to email me to let me know whether Friday or Saturday was better. And it's Wednesday. But who knows...maybe I'm wrong.
Today in the shower, I said to God "Okay God, I need something interesting to happen today..." and then I got all excited thinking "Great- something will happen. I just told my old pal God." And then I had this abrupt realization..."You don't get to tell God what you think you need Sam...He gets to tell you." Hmmph. And this made me realize that I have to be faithful and patient and it also made me think "Good Lord (no pun) what if he thinks I don't need something interesting and momentous to happen? I'll just die of boredom..."
I literally am on the verge of creating an imaginary friend.
How sad is that?
Anyway. Enough hum glum. Today we are taking Honey to Snuffy's because Davis thinks that is just the best place to go...and tomorrow it's Davis' first t-ball game. I am so excited about that. Can't wait to see him in his little uniform- he is on team two- the Seals team. Tonight I'm going to show him videos of kids playing t-ball so he has some sort of idea.
Nikki sent Davis the cutest series of pictures talking about how BIG everything is in Argentina. I showed him last night and he loved it. Couldn't even believe some of the pictures and thought it was hysterical how big the ice cream cone Tony was eating was. There is one special picture of Nikki where she just looks SOOO pretty. I had been thinking it to myself...and all of the sudden Davis said shyly: "Nikki is pretty to me." He adores her.
Here are some of the pictures she sent over.
"Palm branches are big in Argentina"
(this is the one we both think she looks so pretty in)
"Cacti are so big in Argentina"
"Even ice cream is so big in Argentina"
And then the end said something like "But the love I have for the beans is the biggest thing in Argentina" He loved it. Send more pictures of you Nikki- and where you are.
Happy Wednesday.
7/16/13
Super Target and Super Heroes.
Lots of Super Target and Super Hero talk around here these days. Even Holden gets into the masks and muscles. You have to look out because at any given time- you might get attacked, or saved, depending on whether Davis feels like being a bad or good guy.
Have a super day.
Ooh, Honey and I are having so much fun hanging things and making this house look good. I'll do a work in progress home tour next week! Happy Tuesday.
Have a super day.
These pictures were taken out in the sun/playroom. We'll have to move it downstairs when it gets colder, it's a three season room, but for now it's nice to have a place to shove all their toys and junk!
Ooh, Honey and I are having so much fun hanging things and making this house look good. I'll do a work in progress home tour next week! Happy Tuesday.
7/15/13
Don't Be Such a Jan
So first things first, our renter in Austin is a total jerk. Like the exact definition of someone who ONLY cares about herself, has no regard for anyone else, and is SO uptight, picky, and worst of all: passive aggressive. We've already had at least four issues with her. I have not even been able to deal with her because the tone of every email or interaction with her makes. my. blood. boil. I figured it would be better for both of us if Bennett dealt with her. Until the other day.
I sent her an email about replacing two of the wooden blinds in the extra rooms. I asked her to measure the height and width of two windows and said I would then order them. She wrote me back and said I needed to send the property manager over to measure them. I wrote her back and said "I'd rather not pay the PM's hourly rate for a five minute job, would you mind measuring them when you get a chance?" Of course she rudely said "no" and went on to say "And by the way, if it takes less than five minutes- why didn't you do it before you left?"
Responses I considered:
1) "Well Jan, I'm a full-time working mom with two toddlers and a husband that was traveling almost full-time...I didn't get to them and that's why I offered to have Chris (the property manager) come install them..." (She is a stay at home woman that does nothing but gripe, by the way).
2) "Oh Jan. Girl. I've been silent so far, but honey, you're barking up the wrong tree..."
3) "Jan- I'm actually only obligated to leave you with window coverings that provide privacy- and those window blinds do provide privacy- they just don't turn so easily."
4) "You don't have many friends, do you Jan..."
What I did end up saying was "Jan- that's fine. If you're unwilling to measure the two windows- then I'll do this: I'll use the money I was going to spend on buying matching hard wood blinds for those rooms to pay Chris to come measure, and then I'll send you some plastic or paper blinds...it's your call how you would like to handle..."
I haven't heard back from her on that- but I am CERTAIN I will.
We did hear from her today about the pest control people that didn't come today as I told her they would, and she told me that they said they left me a message this morning to cancel. She went on and on about how she had to take time off to be there- and how inconvenient it was- and how the pest control people told her that we had not been there one of the previously scheduled times so they were apprehensive to come..."
I simply wrote back and said "Jan- I have no message from them. If you would like to schedule the appointments directly and have them bill me- please do."
I wanted to say "I will send you some bug killer. When you're done spraying with it- I have an idea of where you canshove stick it."
But enough about that. We had a fun weekend. Bennett and I went to see The Heat on Saturday and had dinner at this cute little restaurant Salut! Then yesterday my mom came into town so it was really fun showing her around...I'm so glad to have her here...and so are Davis and Holden. Davis kissed her so many times and told her how happy he was that she came.
More details later, gotta get back to work. Here are some pictures for you. Oh, I forgot to mention, our new comment when one of us is being annoying or selfish is: "Oh don't be such a Jan..." If only she knew. Ha.
I sent her an email about replacing two of the wooden blinds in the extra rooms. I asked her to measure the height and width of two windows and said I would then order them. She wrote me back and said I needed to send the property manager over to measure them. I wrote her back and said "I'd rather not pay the PM's hourly rate for a five minute job, would you mind measuring them when you get a chance?" Of course she rudely said "no" and went on to say "And by the way, if it takes less than five minutes- why didn't you do it before you left?"
Responses I considered:
1) "Well Jan, I'm a full-time working mom with two toddlers and a husband that was traveling almost full-time...I didn't get to them and that's why I offered to have Chris (the property manager) come install them..." (She is a stay at home woman that does nothing but gripe, by the way).
2) "Oh Jan. Girl. I've been silent so far, but honey, you're barking up the wrong tree..."
3) "Jan- I'm actually only obligated to leave you with window coverings that provide privacy- and those window blinds do provide privacy- they just don't turn so easily."
4) "You don't have many friends, do you Jan..."
What I did end up saying was "Jan- that's fine. If you're unwilling to measure the two windows- then I'll do this: I'll use the money I was going to spend on buying matching hard wood blinds for those rooms to pay Chris to come measure, and then I'll send you some plastic or paper blinds...it's your call how you would like to handle..."
I haven't heard back from her on that- but I am CERTAIN I will.
We did hear from her today about the pest control people that didn't come today as I told her they would, and she told me that they said they left me a message this morning to cancel. She went on and on about how she had to take time off to be there- and how inconvenient it was- and how the pest control people told her that we had not been there one of the previously scheduled times so they were apprehensive to come..."
I simply wrote back and said "Jan- I have no message from them. If you would like to schedule the appointments directly and have them bill me- please do."
I wanted to say "I will send you some bug killer. When you're done spraying with it- I have an idea of where you can
But enough about that. We had a fun weekend. Bennett and I went to see The Heat on Saturday and had dinner at this cute little restaurant Salut! Then yesterday my mom came into town so it was really fun showing her around...I'm so glad to have her here...and so are Davis and Holden. Davis kissed her so many times and told her how happy he was that she came.
More details later, gotta get back to work. Here are some pictures for you. Oh, I forgot to mention, our new comment when one of us is being annoying or selfish is: "Oh don't be such a Jan..." If only she knew. Ha.
He looks so different to me lately- so much older. And he has the nicest tan of all of us.
Their little garden. Davis is on the right. I think he is staring at that little boy's shirt- the Superman one with the cape. He has such admiration/envy for that kid's superhero wardrobe.
At Cocina Del Barrio for lunch today. I know, sort of silly that we tried mexican food for lunch. It was good if you didn't think about it as Tex-Mex. And nice to sit outside. See? No sweat.
This picture is random and frankly it doesn't do the car justice. It was the best color I have seen. Reminds me of Holden's room color back in Texas. Not turquoise, not teal, but somewhere (amazing) in between.
These were taken at Edina Grill last night...just wanted to show you how long Holden's hair is getting in that last pic. I keep trying to clip her long bangs back- but she refuses anything (even the tiniest clip) in her hair. Se la vie.
I had the best local beer called Fulton's Lonely Blonde. So good.
More later. Happy Monday.
7/11/13
4
Katie and I have been exchanging calls and texts about how I would rank my mental state while here in Minne. She knows me so well and she just went through a move to Ohio- so I appreciate her checking in. Most days I've been at about an 8...yesterday was a 4. I don't know exactly why- maybe it was many things- but it was just sort of a quiet and sad day. So what do you do on a sad day? Exercise a little retail therapy.
I have been needing some new running shoes, so I went to the mall yesterday to pick up a pair. I tried on probably 8 different pairs and found one that I really liked, but it was $150, which I think is a little ridiculous. I mean there are shoeless kids in Africa, I don't need shoes that are $150. So, I kept looking and then found a pair that was $89. I tried them on, they felt good, they weren't exactly the cutest, but I was still excited.
I went to the counter, and the guy said "Okay- that will be $189.99..." Excuse me, what? The irony was that I had chosen these shoes because they were a better price...so did I just tell him no and return them, which is what I would typically do? NO. I was having such a bad day and I had already told him I would wear them out of the mall, so I just paid and walked out. And then, like a little baby, I sat down on a bench, crying and changed my shoes. It wasn't really the shoes that made me cry...it was just a sad day. And the shoes were the stupid icing on the cake.
So now I have to go back and return them and find another pair...and hope that the guy that sold them to me isn't there. But today is better. Last night was fun, we went to Snuffy's, which is this little old malt shop...not renovated to look old and classic, but truly old and classic...and I got to talk to my mom, Nikki and Courtney. Courtney sent me a text yesterday of some flowers she had put in a vase on her table...she said "I love how you always have fresh flowers and I was missing you, so I thought I would do it myself..."
Which made me feel like a million bucks and was also a great reminder to continue to do the little things that make me happy. So, I went to Byerly's this morning and got some sunflowers and put them in a pretty glass vase. They don't quite have the selection that HEB does...but it will have to do. Cub and Target are worse.
Okay, enough poor me.
Tomorrow I have coffee with one of the guys that I spoke with before moving here- he is the one that works at the digital shop here- that was so kind and said maybe he and his wife could have us over for dinner...they have a position open, I don't know that it's what I want to do, but we'll see...always good to meet people face to face and learn more.
Then Tuesday I am having lunch with a recruiter from the previously mentioned great retailer here who had the awesome position I was interviewing for that was then abruptly put on hold. He is not only a great connection, but super nice and easy to talk to, and maybe he'll be my new best friend? I don't know. Who knows. You never can tell...
Then Thursday I am having coffee and some conversations with another agency in town...
So I'm trying.
And we have a sitter this Saturday so maybe Bennett and I will go to dinner and a movie or something...and then Honey comes on Sunday. Things are looking up. Today is going to be a good day. At least a 7.
Have a good one.
Oh, one quick note, another thing about the number 4 is that Davis is obsessed with it. Everything is about 4...can I have 4 pretzels? Can I watch for 4 minutes? Can I stay up for 4 minutes? Is it 4 that you have? It's pretty interesting...
I have been needing some new running shoes, so I went to the mall yesterday to pick up a pair. I tried on probably 8 different pairs and found one that I really liked, but it was $150, which I think is a little ridiculous. I mean there are shoeless kids in Africa, I don't need shoes that are $150. So, I kept looking and then found a pair that was $89. I tried them on, they felt good, they weren't exactly the cutest, but I was still excited.
I went to the counter, and the guy said "Okay- that will be $189.99..." Excuse me, what? The irony was that I had chosen these shoes because they were a better price...so did I just tell him no and return them, which is what I would typically do? NO. I was having such a bad day and I had already told him I would wear them out of the mall, so I just paid and walked out. And then, like a little baby, I sat down on a bench, crying and changed my shoes. It wasn't really the shoes that made me cry...it was just a sad day. And the shoes were the stupid icing on the cake.
So now I have to go back and return them and find another pair...and hope that the guy that sold them to me isn't there. But today is better. Last night was fun, we went to Snuffy's, which is this little old malt shop...not renovated to look old and classic, but truly old and classic...and I got to talk to my mom, Nikki and Courtney. Courtney sent me a text yesterday of some flowers she had put in a vase on her table...she said "I love how you always have fresh flowers and I was missing you, so I thought I would do it myself..."
Which made me feel like a million bucks and was also a great reminder to continue to do the little things that make me happy. So, I went to Byerly's this morning and got some sunflowers and put them in a pretty glass vase. They don't quite have the selection that HEB does...but it will have to do. Cub and Target are worse.
Okay, enough poor me.
Tomorrow I have coffee with one of the guys that I spoke with before moving here- he is the one that works at the digital shop here- that was so kind and said maybe he and his wife could have us over for dinner...they have a position open, I don't know that it's what I want to do, but we'll see...always good to meet people face to face and learn more.
Then Tuesday I am having lunch with a recruiter from the previously mentioned great retailer here who had the awesome position I was interviewing for that was then abruptly put on hold. He is not only a great connection, but super nice and easy to talk to, and maybe he'll be my new best friend? I don't know. Who knows. You never can tell...
Then Thursday I am having coffee and some conversations with another agency in town...
So I'm trying.
And we have a sitter this Saturday so maybe Bennett and I will go to dinner and a movie or something...and then Honey comes on Sunday. Things are looking up. Today is going to be a good day. At least a 7.
Have a good one.
Oh, one quick note, another thing about the number 4 is that Davis is obsessed with it. Everything is about 4...can I have 4 pretzels? Can I watch for 4 minutes? Can I stay up for 4 minutes? Is it 4 that you have? It's pretty interesting...
7/10/13
What I Love Wednesday
Working from Home...for now anyway. Enjoying the flexibility and the ability to catch up on Bravo while I work. It also feels good to have work to do and zero commute. I have a few trips coming up- some to Atlanta and possibly some to AUSTIN! So fun...
The Edina YMCA...they have such a nice, huge facility, tons of classes and so many programs for kids. We signed Davis up for T-Ball which will start next Thursday. I went to Zumba last night and learned some very sassy new moves. Observation: people in Minnesota don't exactly have the latin flair (flare?) like the ladies in Texas. I am also thinking of joining this race workout group (see pic below- I snapped it for the phone number) - really just to meet people. I'm totally that creepy person at the Y scoping for new friends.
My beautiful hydrangeas growing out front...they've gone from light green to white as they bloom.
That Honey will be here on Sunday...we seriously cannot wait and I am busying myself doing things to get ready for her visit.
Davis' new school...this is a picture they sent me yesterday. He has been so happy every day when I pick him up, and he talks about all sorts of fun things they are doing. Right now they are learning about kings and queens, castles, dragons and moats. Today he had a tough time at drop-off. I think it was novelty the first two days and now it's real adjustment time. He did great again last night at bedtime- we are going to try Snuffy's again today because it was CLOSED for maintenance yesterday. What a buzz kill.
The weather...it's a beautiful 85 degrees here most days. Admittedly, it can be humid, but there is usually a nice breeze. I think tonight I'll make it a point to have a glass of wine outside on the back porch.
My successful dinner last night...I guess people really DO make things they pin. It was quite a hit, so I'll probably do this more often. And it was the FIRST thing that Bennett has liked from the crock pot. He thinks everything made in the crock pot is bland. I am slowly proving him wrong. Good thing because crock pot cooking is about all I have time for.
Okay, that's all I have for now.
Happy Wednesday (I never say "hump day"- I think it's the worst).
People! If you would like to receive my blog updates via email, I've added a little doo-dad up top so you can submit your email address and receive it the moment I post it! HOT OFF the PRESS!
The Edina YMCA...they have such a nice, huge facility, tons of classes and so many programs for kids. We signed Davis up for T-Ball which will start next Thursday. I went to Zumba last night and learned some very sassy new moves. Observation: people in Minnesota don't exactly have the latin flair (flare?) like the ladies in Texas. I am also thinking of joining this race workout group (see pic below- I snapped it for the phone number) - really just to meet people. I'm totally that creepy person at the Y scoping for new friends.
My beautiful hydrangeas growing out front...they've gone from light green to white as they bloom.
That Honey will be here on Sunday...we seriously cannot wait and I am busying myself doing things to get ready for her visit.
Davis' new school...this is a picture they sent me yesterday. He has been so happy every day when I pick him up, and he talks about all sorts of fun things they are doing. Right now they are learning about kings and queens, castles, dragons and moats. Today he had a tough time at drop-off. I think it was novelty the first two days and now it's real adjustment time. He did great again last night at bedtime- we are going to try Snuffy's again today because it was CLOSED for maintenance yesterday. What a buzz kill.
The weather...it's a beautiful 85 degrees here most days. Admittedly, it can be humid, but there is usually a nice breeze. I think tonight I'll make it a point to have a glass of wine outside on the back porch.
My successful dinner last night...I guess people really DO make things they pin. It was quite a hit, so I'll probably do this more often. And it was the FIRST thing that Bennett has liked from the crock pot. He thinks everything made in the crock pot is bland. I am slowly proving him wrong. Good thing because crock pot cooking is about all I have time for.
Okay, that's all I have for now.
Happy Wednesday (I never say "hump day"- I think it's the worst).
People! If you would like to receive my blog updates via email, I've added a little doo-dad up top so you can submit your email address and receive it the moment I post it! HOT OFF the PRESS!
7/9/13
Guess Who's Going to Snuffy's?
This guy:
He actually stayed in his bed last night and went to sleep before 9:00. I would like to think it was my super stern I-Mean-Business approach when I told him this was his final chance to stay in bed...and that if he came out again, his door would be locked until morning...but it's probably more realistic that he was tired from school. Speaking of school- we got the greatest, most detailed notes from their teachers yesterday saying they each had a great day.
No tears...though it came close for Davis at lunchtime when they served him something that was not chicken nuggets. Hoping that having him eat there will help break his bad eating habits. They provide all organic and local foods and have an in-house chef- so that makes me feel good about it. Of course Holden ate all her lunch, slept the whole nap-time and had seconds on snack. Ha.
Yesterday was kind of a tough day for me- just trying to get back in the groove of working- though a new type of working. And I was feeling pretty lonely, to be honest. But today is better. Partially because I tapped into my networking mojo and set up a dinner with a couple next weekend (friend of a friend in Austin) and set up a coffee with a lady from a local agency later this week.
But really I'm feeling pretty excited because Carrie and I have a super exciting and super secret project we are beginning work on. More to come on that...just having something to work on with her helps me feel connected and also invigorated.
Also, Bennett and I had fun last night. We were trying to hang a different light in the dining room and we just kept cracking up over silly things like him wiring the whole thing and then me quietly saying "oh, oops. wasn't that supposed to go on first?" referencing a piece of the lamp that goes nearest the ceiling that was lying on the table.
Oh my gosh- if the cable doesn't come today I'll just die. Jeff Lewis' new show starts tonight and my mom and I always watch it and I have missed my Bravo friends so much- I NEED them to come today.
Okay anyway, here are some more pictures we took of the neighborhood before the parade. So lush.
He actually stayed in his bed last night and went to sleep before 9:00. I would like to think it was my super stern I-Mean-Business approach when I told him this was his final chance to stay in bed...and that if he came out again, his door would be locked until morning...but it's probably more realistic that he was tired from school. Speaking of school- we got the greatest, most detailed notes from their teachers yesterday saying they each had a great day.
No tears...though it came close for Davis at lunchtime when they served him something that was not chicken nuggets. Hoping that having him eat there will help break his bad eating habits. They provide all organic and local foods and have an in-house chef- so that makes me feel good about it. Of course Holden ate all her lunch, slept the whole nap-time and had seconds on snack. Ha.
Yesterday was kind of a tough day for me- just trying to get back in the groove of working- though a new type of working. And I was feeling pretty lonely, to be honest. But today is better. Partially because I tapped into my networking mojo and set up a dinner with a couple next weekend (friend of a friend in Austin) and set up a coffee with a lady from a local agency later this week.
But really I'm feeling pretty excited because Carrie and I have a super exciting and super secret project we are beginning work on. More to come on that...just having something to work on with her helps me feel connected and also invigorated.
Also, Bennett and I had fun last night. We were trying to hang a different light in the dining room and we just kept cracking up over silly things like him wiring the whole thing and then me quietly saying "oh, oops. wasn't that supposed to go on first?" referencing a piece of the lamp that goes nearest the ceiling that was lying on the table.
Oh my gosh- if the cable doesn't come today I'll just die. Jeff Lewis' new show starts tonight and my mom and I always watch it and I have missed my Bravo friends so much- I NEED them to come today.
Okay anyway, here are some more pictures we took of the neighborhood before the parade. So lush.
This is actually our tree...it's huge and has the brightest green leaves.
Just pics of summer in the midwest.
We woke up to rain today, that was nice and surprising.
Okay- hope you have a great day. Au revoir for now.
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