Potty Realism

I just realized I have come to a new place in parenthood:  the potty training no-judgment zone.  This zone is probably not new to many of you mamas, but I think there are some in the previous generation or maybe your friend across town, who are still in the "my kids were all potty-trained by two, no problems, so what's up with your little people" place.  These folks are well-meaning, and may even be telling the truth, but I'm willing to bet they have not had a challenging potty trainee or they are just leaving out the frustration.

When Monica was just over a year old, I remember talking to a friend about the potty training process.  She had decided that they were not going to set up a reward system with candy, stickers, or McDonalds' french fries.  Why reward a behavior that is not really a choice, i.e. people in our society are expected, from a social and hygenic standpoint, to eliminate in acceptable locations and receptacles.  Period. 

At the time, I thought, "Of course.  I'm just going to get this girl to go potty when I think it's time.  It's as simple as putting them on the potty every so often and,  by two-ish, she'll understand to eliminate there.  Who wants wet, soiled underwear, right?  Surely she'll learn quickly just because that's what we do; it's the routine."

That may work for some, maybe even many, kids.  But, I tell ya, some kids give you a rough go.  Some seem to hold on to dipes and purposeful pants pooping for years.  I've heard some theorize that this variation is due to parenting deficits and/or laziness.  While that is possible, let's not forget that you can't control you kid's bowels or their development in understanding urges.  Let's not forget that changes in the home can get in the way of maintaing and developing skills.  Let's not forget that taking too much responsibility for our kids' bodily functions can cause frustration or a false sense of pride. 

If you need to cut a hole in your kid's diaper and sit them on the toilet to poo, fine.  If you need to give out a jelly bean every once in a while to keep them interested in learning to use the john, what's the harm?  If you're willing the just wash out the messy underwear today because putting your kid on the potty every 30 minutes is exhausting, more power to you.

 And my friend who said there was no way she'd reward potty traning?  She has also reached the potty training no-judgment zone.  Kids will do that to you.  They keep you humble and honest.

Resolving for a Better 2011

Get running
I'm out to post a 5k time in under 25 minutes by November 2011! Now that James is older (translation: sleeping better and eating solid food), I've decided to start running and practicing some yoga again. Just before Christmas, I hit the pavement for the first time in over a year(!) and that first run was, well, painful. My chest was burning after a block and didn't stop until I was comfortably in the house and stretching. Granted, it was really really cold, but I am also really really out of shape. Since then, I've been out a few more times and I've even run for over a mile without walking. And, it actually was semi-fun and mind-clearing. However, I strained some sacroiliac joint related muscle and now have to be content with gentle yoga practice and a heating pad. But, this too shall pass and I'll be back out on the roads soon.

Be more purposeful in my spiritual life
Pregnancy and postpartum are unique times physically, spiritually, and mentally for me. The state of my body and mind are constantly in flux and that presents a lot of challenges spiritually as well. I'm looking forward to having some time this year to have the time and energy to make a more consistent effort in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament and maybe even seeking out a spiritual director. That is something that I've had on my mind and heart for over a year. I think the most helpful thing is that James goes to bed early in the evening and stays down for longer periods of time now. I have been able to use that time to pray and read and reflect more than I did when I was pregnant and going to bed at 8pm or when we were still in the intensely busy newborn period of time.

Make an effort to connect
It's mid January and the Winter Blahs are in full swing. Every year, I have a more difficult time being relationally motivated during the dark, cold months of the year that make me feel like I'm hibernating...except I'm not really hibernating because I'm not sleeping and I'm inside with two needy, very-much-awake little people. I guess I don't feel like I'm hibernating at all...I feel like I'm on the path to stir craziness. One antidote I've found to the winter crazies is getting out and being with people at least twice a week. Sometimes that means skipping a nap, picking up a cold from little play mates, or extra effort that I think I may not have the energy for, but in the end, it helps me to be healthier and a better mom, wife and woman. More often than not, the rewards of reaching out to others and getting out of the house are greater than the draw backs.

Be more loving and gracious with my husband
I am ashamed to say that Kevin often took the brunt of hormonal rants while I was pregnant and shortly after James was born. I can pull it together for appointments, friends, and the kids, but breakdown usually seemed to be reserved for the husband. While breakdowns will occur and we all need that safe place, daily emotional dumps and snippy attitudes are not what he deserves or needs. Kevin deserves my best, just as much or more than the receptionist at the dentist.
This year, I really want to make an effort to give him more of my best than just the leftovers.

Finish what I start..in a timely fashion!
I am notorious for starting projects and books and setting goals and not finishing them for years. I started A Witness to Hope, the biography of Pope John Paul II 4+ years ago and I am still about 200 pages away from finishing it. Yes, it is over 1000 pages, but 4+ years is more than enought time to just get 'er done already. I also found a half-knitted scarf (which I promptly unraveled) in my crafty junk drawers that I think I started pre-Monica. Books, along with book reviews, knitting projects, photo albums and the like will not be just left half finished on the shelf, on the computer, or in my personal junk drawers in the closet!

Here they are. Resolutions for a better 2011 and in the end, a better me for the sake of those I love! Blessing to you all in the New Year!

T Minus Two Days

Yup, still pregnant.

My due date is on Monday and the gracious contentedness I cited in the last post seems to have waned...a lot. I've had a lot of prelabor symptoms which keep me hopeful that this little guy will make his appearance soon. However, there is really no way of knowing, and it's starting to drive me batty. I was 8 days late with Monica, so it's not as if I have a history of early deliveries. There's just this serious urge to meet our son and not be pregnant any longer.

I've been re reading Story of a Soul (as you can see in the side bar), which is the autobiographical work of my patron saint, Therese of Lisieux. I try to read through it about once a year, as it is very encouraging and humbling and grounding. This read has been no exception. In the chapter I finished this afternoon, St. Therese is recounting her excruciating wait to enter Carmel, the contemplative convent she believes is her true spiritual home on earth. Her sole desire is be with Jesus and to live the life of work and prayer she believes she is called to. However, she wants to enter the convent at the unheard of age of 15, which presents a lot of problems in obtaining permission from the superior, the local bishop and even the pope himself. It seems to her at times that her heart's desire, her life's dream, will never be realized.

I feel you, Therese. It is totally irrational for me to think that I will always be pregnant, but there are moments when I really wonder whether this child will join us or just feel the need to stay in the womb forever. I know on an intellectual level that this is preposterous, but I'm not as rational or intellectual at 9 months pregnant as I would like. Reading about this saint, this spiritual friend, who had similar feelings (despair, hope, longing) is a comfort. I'm not alone in the human struggle of waiting and frustration. While I cannot really connect with a burning desire to enter a convent, I do understand the desire to fulfill what you truly believe is the next step in God's plan for you. Those times when it is so close you can almost see it and feel it are some of the most challenging.

So, deep breathing and prayers for patience are the order of the day...or the next several days. And, with past graces as proof and the support of friends and family on earth and in heaven, the last few days of this chapter can be peaceful and joy-filled.

My Favorite People

Here's a recent picture of Monica and Kevin. I just love it! That is the best picture of Monica I've seen in months. Seriously. I could just eat her up!



And, here's one really-pregnant-belly picture. That smile is not completely genuine, as it was super hot and I was feeling quite large. However, being only 10 days away from due date, I know it's almost over.



I was laying in bed this morning thinking about how a chapter in life is about to close (pregnancy, parenting only one child) and a new one is about to open (two kiddos!, newborn-ness). There are moments when reality really hits you between the eyes and you realize it's time to appreciate the present and not exclusively focus on the future, which is very easy to do while at the end of pregnancy. The serene and quiet moments of reading to Monica and snuggling with her before naptime have become more cherished and memorable in the past few days. Life is going to take a monumental turn very soon. The grace of contentment is one that I am enjoying to its fullest.

One Last Road Trip

We're making the two hour drive to my mom's house for one last my-side-of-the-family get together before the baby arrives. To those of you wondering, yes, I'm tired. And yes, I'm not so comfortable. However, I'm still able to take a walk, pick Monica up, and clean a bathroom every once in a while. I'll be glad to have more mobility again very soon!

I've been meaning to post a recent picture of Monica but she is not the most photogenic these days. She used to be a total ham for the camera. Now she gives me blank looks, like this:



Love ya, babe, but where are those fabulous grins you used to give the camera???

We hope you and yours have a fabulous Memorial Day weekend. Let's remember to give thanks and say a prayer for all of the veterans who have given their lives for our freedoms!

Some Quick Takes

1. Daily occurance: Kevin and I standing in the driveway, shoulders hunched in despair, staring at our totally weed infested lawn. Clover, crabgrass, and poky things aside, part of me feels a bit bad for begrudging dandelions their place. They are a very sunny yellow. That hue in a daffodil or day lily is very becoming but God help me if I'll tolerate it in a dandelion in my grass. I think the most discouraging thing is the hardiness of that sunny weed-flower. I know we could spray some serious chemicals or hire Tru Green, but with a dog and more importantly, a toddler who loves to play in and yes, sometimes even eat dirt and leaves, chemicals don't seem to be a wise an option. Our best solution now is to dig them up...one.by.one. If anyone has another non-caustic solution, let me know. We'd be happy to entertain other ideas.

2. A friend of mine just gave birth to identical twin boys this morning, sans Cesarean. Awesome. After having a long and difficult labor myself, with one baby, I have to give her some serious kudos. Her labor was induced and was over 24 hours-that means no eating and not a whole lot of sleeping. I really am just so proud of her. Birth stories for moms can be likened (on some level) to scar stories for little boys. You probably wouldn't want to re-live it, but it is something that really bonds you with other women. However, I think women win out over little boys because the result, a precious little baby (or babies!), is a very gracious gift compared to a scar.

3. Kevin is running the Flying Pig Marathon in Cincinnati this weekend. (We'll have to ask St. Clare of Assisi for some intercession because thunderstorms are in the forecast!) One of my favorite parts of marathon spectating is seeing the city we travel to-Boston, D.C., Chicago...but I'm not sure how much I'll see in Cincinnati since there isn't a really sophisticated public transportation system and there aren't a lot of loops in the route. But, we have some reservations at a highly rated Italian restaurant. Mmmm...carb up!
We are making the trek without Monica, which I think will feel a bit odd. Both Kevin and I have left town with her staying with the other parent, but this is the first time she'll be without either of us. It's only one night, and I know she is in fabulous hands. I think it will be tougher for me than for her in the end.

4. Bathroom humor begins at a young age, apparently. Kevin taught Monica to say "Toot, toot!" when she, or anyone else for that matter, lets out some gas. We'll be sitting at the dinner table, she'll let one fly, exclaim "Toot, toot!", and dissolve into hysterical laughter. I had no idea she'd be that interested in flatulence at 18 months. From my experience with other kiddos and let's be honest, adults, she'll be laughing at gas for many years to come.

The Bony Baby Complex

I have a confession to make. I have a serious complex about doctor appointments...Monica's doctor appointments that is. Since she was a few weeks old, Monica has been on watch for appropriate weight gain. I won't get into all the details, but she is a small fry, and this is the one span of time in human development when thunderthighs seem to be culturally preferable to a leaner, beanlike look. I say "seem to be" because, in reality, childhood obesity is a serious and growing issue in America and even infants can be obese. Yet, how many people do you know walk up to a skinny baby, pinch their skinny legs, and say, "Look at those precious bony legs! I just want to eat them up!"

Intellectually, I know that Monica is really healthy. She's on track in all areas of development; we are doing our best to give her extra calories in her still-milk-free diet, she eats regular meals, and we never refuse her food within reason. But when your last three well-child exams have included a handout about children who "fail to thrive," you may begin to second guess yourself and your kid.

Tomorrow is the big 18 month appointment and I've been giving myself pep talks for it by rehearsing what I will say if the failure to thrive info is handed to me again. As Kevin said, it's time to just tell the doc and nurse that we are doing our best and can't help our kid's genetics or the fact she can't have a lot of high calorie foods and that there are times when all she will eat is potato doused in ketchup. Lord help us; we do our best.

All of you parents out there with bony-legged toddlers, hats off to you. Even without the "yummy" thighs, your children are beautiful and precious.

Update: The doctor appointment went well! We did not receive any information on failure to thrive dietary recommendations nor any weight-related chastisement. And, we will soon try to start Monica on some whole milk yogurt. Kind of a big deal for this kiddo who has been milk-free for over a year! All in all, no Bony Baby worries were necessary.

Short and Sweet

It's been a couple weeks, so here's a short rundown...

• Kevin was in Japan for a week. Monica and I survived with visits from friends and family and lots of prayers. Here's the souvenir Kevin brought back this time. If you're thinking, "Who the world is Anpanman?" check out this site. Good for a chuckle.

• Kevin returned from his trip mere hours after Monica got sick with some intestinal bug...made for some messy, explosive dipes. Ugh. She's healthy and happy now, thank goodness!

• It's been really sunny so we've been outside a lot playing in the dirt and melting snow. Lots of laundry.

• I'm 26 weeks now, and at the point where I feel bigger than is really comfortable. I'm also blaming Mommy MushBrain for the lack of postings. Honestly, I think at least half of my brain cells are on loan to the baby! However, this too shall pass, and I'm making every effort to enjoy my time with one kiddo and nights uninterrupted by a crying infant.

• Kevin is training for the Flying Pig marathon and is in the longest, most draining part of the training (read: running 20+ miles on Saturdays). I've realized it takes the cooperation of the whole family for him to do this, from the time spent training, to the extra food, to buying new shoes more frequently, not to mention those little packets of energy gel.

• Speaking of extra food, I just realized everyone in this house is clinically skinny...except for me. That even includes the dog. Awesome. I think I'll go make myself a hot fudge sundae.

Pregnancy-Induced Aphasia

Most days, I just don't have the words to blog. The energy drain that is the first trimester has taken its toll on my productivity. The house is just messier and my nap is just as crucial as Monica's. There are days when 9pm rolls around and it is almost too much to even hold a conversation. I just start blubbering about "tired," "bedtime," and "I just can't (fill in the bland of whatever Kevin has asked about/wanted to do)".

But as with all things, this too shall pass, and I'm going to enjoy my naps while I can get them. I'll be back to the blogosphere some time soon...

Obituary of the Late Mr. Common Sense

Today we mourn the passing of a beloved old friend, Common Sense, who has been with us for many years. No one knows for sure how old he was, since his birth records were long ago lost in bureaucratic red tape. He will be remembered as having cultivated such valuable lessons as:

- Knowing when to come in out of the rain;
- Why the early bird gets the worm;
- Life isn't always fair;
- and maybe it was my fault.

Common Sense lived by simple, sound financial policies (don't spend more than you can earn) and reliable strategies (adults, not children, are in charge). His health began to deteriorate rapidly when well-intentioned but overbearing regulations were set in place. Reports of a 6-year-old boy charged with sexual harassment for kissing a classmate; teens suspended from school for using mouthwash after lunch; and a teacher fired for reprimanding an unruly student, only worsened his condition.

Common Sense lost ground when parents attacked teachers for doing the job that they themselves had failed to do in disciplining their unruly children. It declined even further when schools were required to get parental consent to administer sun lotion or an aspirin to a student; but could not inform parents when a student became pregnant and wanted to have an abortion.

Common Sense lost the will to live as the churches became businesses; and criminals received better treatment than their victims. Common Sense took a beating when you couldn't defend yourself from a burglar in your own home and the burglar could sue you for assault.

Common Sense finally gave up the will to live, after a woman failed to realize that a steaming cup of coffee was hot. She spilled a little in her lap, and was promptly awarded a huge settlement.

Common Sense was preceded in death, by his parents, Truth and Trust, by his wife, Discretion, by his daughter, Responsibility, and by his son, Reason.He is survived by his 4 stepbrothers; I Know My Rights, I Want It Now, Someone Else Is To Blame, and I'm A Victim.

Apparently, this has been circulating around the internet for years. I just saw it, and thought it was worth posting. I miss old Mr. C. Sense.

Note from original author, Lori Borgman: This piece was first published March 15, 1998 in the Indianapolis Star. It has been "modified" and "edited" by others and circulated on the Internet, even sent to me several times. Imagine my surprise to see it attributed to some guy named Anonymous. If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, I take having my work circulated on the web as a compliment.

Baby Tunes etc.

Kevin and I recently noticed that Monica is starting to respond more to music. Singing songs has always had a claming effect on her, but now she does the "baby dancing" which consists of rocking side to side or bouncing up and down when she hears a melody she likes. It's very cute!

Thinking this would be a good time to start playing children's music for her, I went to the library and found some classic playtime songs, lullabies and even some traditional african music. We've listened to most of them, and to be honest, she hasn't shown a real clear preference toward any of them. Even more honestly, there are some CDs I can't stand but for more than two minutes. But I have rediscovered a love of Raffi. I still remember the lyrics to "Baby Beluga" and "Down By the Bay." Classics. It is so great to have an excuse to sing and dance around to them again.

I also realized that my mom may still have a bunch of music on cassette from when Beth and I were wee ones. I wish I could easily transfer the music to CDs or even better, MP3s. What kind of equipment would you need for that? I bet people do it, but it probably costs an arm and a leg.

Speaking of cassettes, the audio of my sister's baptism is on cassette. You can hear her screaming, pretty much the whole time, and the minister says, in between wails, "Whoa, she means business." I think I should have that immortalized on MP3...

Maybe Monica will have a lot in common with Auntie Beth.

Domestic Victory

I have a baby...
...who likes to make messes
...who really likes to eat blueberries.

Stains are imminent. In fact, this morning she got food processed blueberry all over her pajamas. Such a bummer because these PJs are super cute, striped with footies and a zipper. I know that a blueberry stain on PJs is really not a big deal, but still...
I stripped Monica to her diaper after breakfast and applied a paste of OxiClean and water to the stain. Fifteen minutes later, totally gone! I was super excited!

So, in honor of this small, but encouraging mommy victory, here is Willie Mays, pitching the fabulous product that made my day.

No One is Immune

Kevin forwarded me this article on Mommy Blogs and the ethical concerns over product reviews and disclosure of blog/product affiliation. I think this is interesting for a couple of reasons:

1. I used to read a few other Mommy Blogs than those on my little roll call, but when they became more interested in blogging about their books and business travels, I got irritated and moved on. It also seemed that some of these blogs were digging for posts by using some stories about their children and husbands that were less than charitable and rather embarassing. When I read about "the latest horrible thing my 4 year old did today..." for the 5th time that week, that was all I could take.

2. The PR folk and marketeers go after everyone! When they see an opportunity to reach a large sector of consumers, they find who they can use to do it and pounce. In the article, one very famous blogger states that she gets about 75 PR offers a day. Wow.

In my opinion, the best Mommy Blogs are those that share funny stories or difficult situations in an honest, compassionate manner. I have found support through these women who are willing to share their experiences. It helps you to remember that you're not alone in the grand task of raising children, even when you are quarantined with the never-ending illness or the third day of snow falling on 3 feet of accumulation.

But when a so-called Mommy Blog turns into a ticker tape parade to celebrate the latest speaking engagement or a constant stream of product reviews, it loses the identity that brought the blog to the forefront in the first place.

So, keep on bloggin' Mommies, but remember where you came from.

Something Fun

If you're the crafty type, namely the kiddy crafty type, check out Crap I've Made. Good stuff! Not at all crap in my opinion. I think I'll be trying a project or two. Here are a few faves...

Tie Onesie

Chic Burp Cloths

Applique Onesie Tips and Patterns

Stamped Washer Necklaces

I aspire to the sewing machine skills these crafts require. Seriously. I just need to buckle down and learn already!

You know, one of my favorite parts of the blog is the name. Now that's a woman who doesn't take herself too seriously. This blogger also hearts BabyLegs, which I am totally obsessed with right now.

H/T to my friend Anna for the heads up on this little bloggy treasure.

Back from Nor Cal

After a long weekend in California for a friend's wedding, I am glad to be back home and back to normal life. Sometimes I find it disappointing to return home after vacation; back to the grind and hum drum of life. This time, I was more than ready. For one, the three hour time change always gets to me, and we were out late every night with wedding related festivities. Couple that with a turbulent red eye flight back to Michigan and you have the perfect recipe for acute but temporary narcolepsy. I returned Monday morning and had serious concerns about walking and holding Monica at the same time for most of the day. I really thought I was going to keel over from pure exhaustion!

The best part about coming home was seeing Kevin and Monica. I climbed into bed at around 6am when I made it back home. Monica woke up around 7:30 and when Kevin brought her in to the bedroom to see me, her face lit up and she started giggling hysterically. I could not have asked for a better welcome.

I love being a wife and mother! There are times when my brain feels less than exercised, but I wouldn't trade this life for anything. Raising this little one with Kevin is the most awesome responsibility and privilege. Here's to a beautiful life.

(I'll try to post some pictures soon. I forgot my camera, but I'm hoping friends are willing to share!)

Summer Thoughts and Happenings

Ye ol' blog has been neglected as of late due to busyness and weird napping. I'm going to have to make some major adjustments in regard to tasking when naps are dropped...arg.

I also started reading another book for the Catholic Company. This time it's Hiking the Camino: 500 Days with Jesus by Father Dave Pivonka, T.O.R. It's a memoir of Fr. Dave's hike of the Camino de Santiago de Compostela. The Camino may just be my dream pilgrimage.

This summer is filling up so quickly. Next weekend we're going to be out of town for Kevin's high school reunion, but if we were home, there would be some event or party to attend every night. I love a good party! I wish there were two of me...

I'm going to California for a wedding today (without Kev and Monica!) so there will be yet another hiatus in this corner of the blogosphere. Here's some pics for you to enjoy in the meantime.


Still lovin' the swing. Notice the her little stick legs. She looks especially skinny in this picture. The only baby chub she seems to have is in her face. She looks like a little chipmunk storing food in its cheeks.




Here's Monica's latest trick: rolling around in the crib while swaddled. She used to sleep on her back but now she's taken to rolling on her side and propping herself up on the crib bumper or just snoozing on her belly, all while swaddled of course. She can break out of the swaddle but just chooses to roll with it. Whatever. As long as she's sleeping and happy (as evidenced by the post nap pic above), I'm not changing a thing...at least for a while. I definitely don't plan on swaddling my 4 year old. Can you imagine?? I would have to use bed sheets!

CVS-Gate

Drama-rama.

I went to CVS today to take advantage of a Nivea lotion and shaving cream sale. Just as I was walking to the cash register, I realized I didn't have my ExtraCare card: no card, no deal. I didn't want to put everything back, so I set my little reusable shopping bag by the door and walked quickly out to my car, only to be accosted 30 seconds later by a pharmacist saying, "Oh no you don't!" It didn't take me more than half a second to realize she and the manager and another pharmacist running up behind her thought that I was shoplifting. I didn't have anything but Monica, my credit card, and my keyless entry thingy. I told her that I was just heading out to my car to get my ExtraCare card, but she obviously didn't believe me. I told her I left the bag inside the door so I could go to my car. She was still dubious so I took her inside and showed her the bag. While she and her cronies were rifling through it, I went back out to my car to get the card. When I came back, the bag and my items were on the cash register counter. I felt furious, but I tried to be as polite as possible to the cashier, since he had nothing to do with the scene that just played out.

It really does feel awful to be accused of stealing. The only other time I've been confronted in such a manner was with Officer X in the Civic-Gate incident (Part I, Part II, Part III). The thing that bothers me the most is that no one apologized for chasing me and for the accusation. There is part of me who wants to write a letter and tell them exactly what I think about being accused and spoken to like that. However, I think it's best to just let it go and be glad that I had the presence of mind not to walk out with the bag on the way to get my little card. That mistake would have been difficult to explain away.

Addendum: I told Kevin this story and he said, "Well, why didn't you just leave the bag with the cashier? They wouldn't have accused you of shoplifting." So simple. So easy. Lesson learned.

One For the Books

Yesterday was Pentecost, and the day was truly inspired in many ways...a beautiful morning liturgy, a safe, fast half marathon race for Kevin, fab naps for Monica, and an evening barbecue with friends. However, I think the Holy Spirit Inspiration award goes to Kevin for suggesting that I go kayaking on a local river by myself. Pure bliss. In the B. K. days, we went kayaking, hiking, and snow shoeing as much as possible. I miss that part of my life very much, and spending a few hours paddling around to my heart's content on a gorgeous Sunday afternoon was just what I needed. Ahhh...

I arrived at the canoe livery only to find it very busy--and by busy I mean that there were a bunch of foul-mouthed 20ish year olds sporting Corona swim suits, faux-hawks and retro 80s sunglasses. My happy-bliss bubble was burst on the spot. Fortunately, the dumb luck ended with the obnoxious co-eds. I used to work for this particular park, and a former co-worker treated me to a free kayak. I also got on the river fast enough to beat out the crude and seemingly inebriated canoers.

The short down-river trip I took was just beautiful. There were so many people at the parks along the river sunning themselves and just enjoying the day. I think the best part was seeing some Renaissance fair types dueling at one of the riverside parks. (I really wish I would have had my camera!) They had shields, metal helmets (one complete with a Rohirrim horse hair tail), breast plates and blunt looking swords. It was like Medeival Times on the banks of the Huron. I think there were even some Ladies in Waiting weaving tapestries and embroidering pillows. Kind of weird, but entertaining nonetheless.

It was one of those rare days that everything comes together: quality time with God, with my husband and daughter, with friends, and even with myself. In a word: fabulous.

Just One of Those Days

...that requires a giant piece of leftover birthday cake.

No, I didn't eat the WHOLE thing...

Hog-Tied Fingers

Writer's block. Arg.

I've been trying to write a book review for a week and have come up with a page of ramblings. I set the timer and just typed, hoping that an ingenius quippy first line would just fly through my fingers, to the keyboard and onto the screen, but to no avail. It's not that I don't have anything to say about the book. The thoughts and words and sentences and paragraphs are just not flowin' and gellin'. I hate that.

So, instead of writing productively, I check my three email addresses (yes, I know that it's a bit ridiculous to have three email addresses), read my favorite blogs, shop for baby dome tents online, ponder a new pair of jeans but then decide it's never a good idea to order jeans online, listen to the baby babble in her crib, blog...anything to distract myself from the fact that I want to write but my brain is totally obstructed.

I wish they made brain enemas...mm, that's gross...