tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88210314332676539052024-02-07T15:12:52.850-05:00three little wordsJodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10328778434282727641noreply@blogger.comBlogger168125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8821031433267653905.post-50138278244422227462014-11-21T13:03:00.001-05:002014-11-21T13:05:17.629-05:00My Favorite ThingsI'm excited to participate in <a href="http://www.320sycamoreblog.com/" target="_blank" title="320 Sycamore"><span style="color: green;">320 Sycamore’s</span><span style="color: black;"> </span></a>My Favorite Things 2014 <a href="http://www.320sycamoreblog.com/2014/11/favorite-things-party-2014.html" target="_blank" title="Favorite Things 2014"><span style="color: green;">linking event</span></a>! Be sure to check it out.<br />
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<strong>Here are some of my favorite things:</strong></div>
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1. Essie Nail Polish in "Ballet Slippers."</div>
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It provides a soft pink color on my nails, that I love. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGF5fVwOdheBF15WeBCnBuBW-7qzeEDwk80S29yopbx2N7e1lh2n4QQta5wZ4KVWszI2rcU7N9qG3PmjUvvikZqZK2RekVJKmHOU2eOt8ZRELC0G0RNRI4_3s71q36SMsvxJBDP1BFHKQ/s1600/4eb2857f7fdf6d99b8a8b7d14d60639c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGF5fVwOdheBF15WeBCnBuBW-7qzeEDwk80S29yopbx2N7e1lh2n4QQta5wZ4KVWszI2rcU7N9qG3PmjUvvikZqZK2RekVJKmHOU2eOt8ZRELC0G0RNRI4_3s71q36SMsvxJBDP1BFHKQ/s1600/4eb2857f7fdf6d99b8a8b7d14d60639c.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
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2. My <a href="http://www.keurig.com/">Keurig</a>. </div>
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I am the only coffee drinker in my household, so this is perfect. And it is great for when guests come over - I love that each person can make their own drink selection, from decaf to tea or apple cider to hot chocolate!</div>
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3. <a href="http://www.alexandani.com/">Alex and Ani Bangle Bracelets</a></div>
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I currently have the one below and the "my other half" bangle. I wear them together (I think the more you have, the better they look). They add such a nice statement to one's wardrobe, and are offered at an incredible price!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc4D0yH_F9dOl3MdtRVmCBVd5Qh5aebAVDInown_AwhxLSCGMDBX3SRM0faBP_sjWSvJDV8A3wWZnrRpjgF5wby2WrL1DO9IK5JspDHdqOn2XoLzsjGK8Phnllqt8LHcLv7kA0LrmRNXo/s1600/mom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc4D0yH_F9dOl3MdtRVmCBVd5Qh5aebAVDInown_AwhxLSCGMDBX3SRM0faBP_sjWSvJDV8A3wWZnrRpjgF5wby2WrL1DO9IK5JspDHdqOn2XoLzsjGK8Phnllqt8LHcLv7kA0LrmRNXo/s1600/mom.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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4. <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/">Pinterest</a></div>
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I love the world of pinterest - I use it especially for birthday party planning, craft ideas, and home décor inspiration. Love, love, love! Feel free to follow me on pinterest - <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/jodib/">JodiB</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsZVoQVqhRDyQcw420vffdAiotQcW71TFSDnh8bEZX-O7uqaVP_waYsY-Szbl_Oy-nkikqdZX_MhtRggflBEeUpMrazKxhp7I9hbBhQwksH_bmGvXDROPsWUihDO4N2HpMISIdOih0P5c/s1600/untitled.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsZVoQVqhRDyQcw420vffdAiotQcW71TFSDnh8bEZX-O7uqaVP_waYsY-Szbl_Oy-nkikqdZX_MhtRggflBEeUpMrazKxhp7I9hbBhQwksH_bmGvXDROPsWUihDO4N2HpMISIdOih0P5c/s1600/untitled.png" /></a></div>
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5. <a href="http://www.stives.com/">St. Ives Apricot Scrub</a></div>
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I use this every single day. My face does not feel clean without this as part of my beauty routine. It is the perfect gentle exfoliate. </div>
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6. <a href="http://scentsy.com/">My Scentsy Warmer</a></div>
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This exact one was gifted to me by my sister and her fiancé. I love that it plugs in, offers a warm glow via the light inside, and that I can use (and reuse) so many different scents. I enjoy something fruity in the warm months, and a cherry or vanilla in the winter. This has my whole house smelling delicious in a matter of minutes. </div>
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7. <a href="http://www.dyson.com/">My Dyson</a></div>
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I never thought I would say that I love a vacuum, but I am seriously in love with this vacuum. Yes, they may seem pricey, but we were going through a $100 vacuum every year, so this was worth the investment. We're going on 2 years of owning this, and this vacuum is still amazing. It is perfect for rugs and hard floors. It sucks up dirt and dog hair like nobody's business. It is also good for cleaning the couch on a regular basis, and reaching those cobwebs that appear in the corners of a room. ;) </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now that you know some of my favorite things, I'd love to know yours!! I'm always interested in finding something new to love and make life easier.</span> </div>
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<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10328778434282727641noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8821031433267653905.post-21138822595682500032014-07-18T12:19:00.000-04:002014-07-18T12:19:01.762-04:00Hanging in thereSummers around here are always busy. It seems like the weekends are getting quickly booked up with parties, cook outs, trips to the zoo, plans to see family, and our traditional camping trip in Maine next month. Yard work? Laundry? Lazy Saturday mornings? What are all those again?<br />
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I've been unwell for the last few weeks. It started out as stomach pain that came and went, and then just kind of inhabited my body for good. it's been low, high (under my right breast), in my back, on my side. It's been dull and achy, and at times sharp. I'm not sure what is causing it, and it seems like the doctors don't seem to know either. <br />
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I had a urine test, which showed bilirubin was present. Bilirubin is a liver enzyme. The urine was sent to the lab for further testing. I was ordered a plethora of blood work as well, including liver function panel. Everything came back normal, except for the bilirubin in the urine. I'm still uncomfortable and in pain. I'm not sure what the next step will be, as my doctor is out today. Has anyone dealt with something like this before?<br />
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Weekend is busy of course. Visiting little brother at his new place tomorrow , and a birthday party on Sunday. Have a great weekend, everyone!<br />
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<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10328778434282727641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8821031433267653905.post-28863627965865895502014-06-27T14:46:00.003-04:002014-06-27T14:48:22.948-04:00Taking Stock<span style="color: #555555;">Following in Kate's footsteps today. Via the small things blog <a href="http://www.thesmallthingsblog.com/2014/06/taking-stock/">here. </a></span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666;">Making : memories with the littles. <i>I hope.</i><br />Cooking : nothing. my husband does all the cooking. bless him. <br />Drinking : water (trying to drink more of this stuff), and wine. not together.<br />Reading: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Two-Kisses-Maddy-Memoir-Loss/dp/B00A19TQA0">Two Kisses for Maddy</a> <span style="background-color: white;">by Matthew Logelin</span><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"></span><br />Wanting: to lose about 8-10 pounds this summer. I can no longer blame my belly on post-baby.<br />Looking: like I need a hair cut. and more exercise. and more sleep.<br />Playing: Candy Crush as my down-time relaxer, late at night after the kids are in bed. <br />Wasting: time (always)<br />Sewing: nada. though I have a sewing machine, never used.<br />Wishing: I could spend more time outside, gardening.<br />Enjoying:the warmth of the sun on my skin, family gatherings, the laughter from my girls<br />Waiting: to finally get my contacts today - so much easier and more comfortable than glasses!<br />Liking: coral colored nail polish. Esse has the perfect shade, but I'm trying not to spend money.Wondering: what my girls will be like as they grow up.<br />Loving: pesto. hubby made <a href="http://www.iheartnaptime.net/grilled-caprese-sandwich/">this</a> for me for dinner last night. yum.</span>
<span style="color: #666666;">Hoping: i'm doing ok at this parenting thing. <br />Needing: a day at the beach or ocean.<br />Smelling: my lunch.<br />Wearing: a sweater...it's cold in my office!<br />Noticing: the landscaping of people's homes.<br />Knowing: that when Katie starts kindergarten, how hard it will be for her...and me.<br />Thinking: about my next project. <br />Feeling: the need to be more organized. <br />Opening: our thoughts to another baby? we're still not sure. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #555555;"> <span style="font-size: xx-small;">Katie's ballet recital 2014</span></span></div>
Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10328778434282727641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8821031433267653905.post-33865090355742017352014-05-23T13:19:00.000-04:002014-05-23T13:19:03.530-04:00This and That Thursdayon a Friday...<br />
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Just sitting here at my desk feeling anxious and worn down. Not quite sure as to why, but feel like I've got a lot on my mind right now. Some at the surface and some deep thoughts that I'm not even sure of yet. Just feeling, meh. Stressed a bit. This time of year I'm always feeling like I need to DO more, and that is of course mixed with all of the things that <b>already</b> fill up the calendar. Bleh. </div>
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Things I want to do: </div>
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<li>spring cleaning</li>
<li>outdoor gardening</li>
<li>writing</li>
<li>reading</li>
<li>organizing</li>
<li>purging </li>
<li>decorating</li>
<li>creating</li>
<li>documenting</li>
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Between the busyness of life, kids, home, appointments, school ending, summer starting, graduations, birthdays, dance recitals, etc. etc., it just feels there is never enough time in a day. I'm sure you all can relate!</div>
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I have a feeling it is going to be a short summer in some regards, and a long summer in others. Exploring all options to get through it, and enjoy it at the same time. Feel free to send me luck, prayers, and any extra money you have lying around. ;)</div>
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Finally figuring out what I would like to do in creating an etsy shop. I've known my "idea" for a long time, but wasn't quite sure how to "endorse" it, but I think I'm getting there. Stay tuned!</div>
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I'm noticing my body have some "allergy" type of reactions recently. My face sometimes will feel hot and itchy. Today it was my face, stomach, and back. Not sure what the trigger is. </div>
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I'm not generally an ice cream gal, but I love eating it in the summer. My favorite go-to flavors are coffee and black rasberry. If it's soft-serve, I retreat to my youth and get bubblegum. :) What's your favorite ice cream flavor? </div>
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Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10328778434282727641noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8821031433267653905.post-8255196628982316282014-01-24T13:03:00.001-05:002014-01-24T13:03:40.519-05:00Five Minute Friday: Visit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg63XeyRv0gf3UJAVe7EyQCZn44X_g220JzW6Oaz_UWs_BS9ZiWD9xZHePfY6GDaseOQEmwfLjcZt6MYUqP0SWw6MIiWefaTguqjfmkHYRDPmPdTqIhX9tDcUbP_JVcOvd6jLNq3dBCRQ/s1600/5-minute-friday-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg63XeyRv0gf3UJAVe7EyQCZn44X_g220JzW6Oaz_UWs_BS9ZiWD9xZHePfY6GDaseOQEmwfLjcZt6MYUqP0SWw6MIiWefaTguqjfmkHYRDPmPdTqIhX9tDcUbP_JVcOvd6jLNq3dBCRQ/s1600/5-minute-friday-1.jpg" /></a></div>
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I'm joining up with Lisa Jo Baker and some amazing women for Five Minute
Friday. One word. Five minutes. No editing. Learn more <a href="http://lisajobaker.com/2013/05/five-minute-friday-song/" target="_blank">HERE</a>. <br />
<br />
Today's word is:<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #990000;">VISIT</span></span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #990000;"><span style="color: black;">--------------</span> </span></span></b><br />
Sometimes I visit the past. My past. I try to remember the details of the memories of times gone by. I used to be better at recalling those details. Maybe too good at it, as I would often proliferate on those tiny details. Now, with the 24 hour-a-day task of parenting two young children, the details become a little fuzzy.<br />
<br />
But sometimes those memories come back to visit me, like long-lost friends. And the details feel fresh and vivid in my mind. Like passing notes to my sister in between a crack in the wall of our two bedrooms. The paper folded a hundred times over to fill the space between the walls. The giggling back and forth. Or all the times my parents took us to the beach in the summer. It was a family affair, with the grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. We'd leave early in the morning to be one of the first on the beach in order to claim our preferred spot. Sometimes we were there before the lifeguards arrived, and almost always before the water was warm enough to swim in. Memories of dance parties in the basement of my cousin's house. Cranking the music up to our favorite radio songs and choreographing our own dances. Memories of time spent playing outside, without adult supervision. The neighborhoods were safe back then. We would walk down to the general store with a dollar in our hands, and come back with a brown lunch bag full of candy that would last for days. <br />
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Often these memories will arise when I'm driving. Always I think I should keep a journal of sorts, simply to record these memories of mine. Something to look back on, and something to pass on to my children. <br />
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<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10328778434282727641noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8821031433267653905.post-33038961179718611692014-01-23T09:38:00.000-05:002014-01-24T12:09:58.958-05:00This and That Thursday<br />
<br />
It is cold. So very bitter cold. <i>Freeze your boogers</i> cold (you northerners should be able to relate). Is it summer yet?<br />
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<br />
I am in desperate need of a hair cut. My husband disagrees, as he likes my hair long; the longer the better. However, he is not the one dealing with said hair. And it's at a point where it needs <i>something</i>. Something different. Something new. Something uplifting. I'm totally digging a long side-swept bang and layers. I've been pinning some inspirational photos <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/jodib/beauty-and-fashion/">here</a>. <br />
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I find myself with a tiredness reminiscent of a new mother. I can't remember the last time my children slept through the night, in their own beds. They are 2 and 4, and by gosh, they need to be sleeping through the night, right? My youngest will wake upset and it take a few minutes to even be able to console her. Sometimes she scratches at her legs, and doesn't want to be touched. Eventually she will let me hold her. Once she is calm, she might ask to use the potty or to have a drink of water. Always in the end, she wants to crawl into bed next to me and go back to sleep. There are some nights when she is up several times, and more recently, when she is up for <i>several hours at a time</i>. Then the 4 year old will wander in and want to crawl in bed. And quite frankly, this Momma is getting no rest. <br />
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My nails are doing something funky. I've lost one side of my thumbnail, and I've got an in-grown toenail on one of my big toes. Gross, right? I've never experienced either, and I'm not sure what to do.<br />
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<br />
The oldest asked the youngest the other day what she wanted to be when she grows up.<br />
The youngest replied, "A robot."<br />
<br />
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<br />
I'm feeling old. I'm finding more and more gray hair. The wrinkles are settling on my forehead and around my eyes. I'm looking into more advanced day lotions and night creams, to you know, target my aging skin. What do you use and love?<br />
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<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10328778434282727641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8821031433267653905.post-73725778338960271382013-09-27T15:40:00.004-04:002013-09-27T15:40:54.018-04:00Pieces of MeThis post is prompted by Lisa-Jo Baker for Five Minute Friday. Lisa-Jo encouraged us to share our<i> truths </i>with her today. Here are a few raw, real pieces of me. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg63XeyRv0gf3UJAVe7EyQCZn44X_g220JzW6Oaz_UWs_BS9ZiWD9xZHePfY6GDaseOQEmwfLjcZt6MYUqP0SWw6MIiWefaTguqjfmkHYRDPmPdTqIhX9tDcUbP_JVcOvd6jLNq3dBCRQ/s1600/5-minute-friday-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg63XeyRv0gf3UJAVe7EyQCZn44X_g220JzW6Oaz_UWs_BS9ZiWD9xZHePfY6GDaseOQEmwfLjcZt6MYUqP0SWw6MIiWefaTguqjfmkHYRDPmPdTqIhX9tDcUbP_JVcOvd6jLNq3dBCRQ/s1600/5-minute-friday-1.jpg" /></a></div>
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Today's word is: <span style="color: #660000;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">TRUE </span></span><br />
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<i>I know this much to be true...</i><br />
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I feel inadequate.<br />
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I feel like I don't do enough. That I can't live up enough to expectations. Mine. Yours. Theirs.<br />
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I become depressed, anxious, panicked when I feel overwhelmed.<br />
<br />
Overwhelmed by a messy house, landscaping that needs tending to, house repairs that don't get done...<br />
the pile of laundry on my bed - clean, yet unfolded. And the dirty laundry piling up in the closet. <br />
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Overwhelmed by the demands of two, precious little girls. Overwhelmed by the whining and the tantrums. Overwhelmed by the sensory issues. Overwhelmed by the mornings. Oh, friends, the mornings are not kind.<br />
<br />
I am overwhelmed by the overwhelmness of it all. (Yes, I just made that word up).<br />
<br />
I don't want my children and family to remember the messiness of the house and my inability to <i>keep up with it all</i>. I don't want to be the mom who loses her temper, her cool, her calm too quickly.I don't want a life that feels like I'm always rushing around. And in the end, at the end of the day, feels like I didn't do enough.<br />
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I feel old. My body feels worn out, tired. Gray hairs are multiplying as fast as that pile of dirty laundry.<br />
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I want to make this life matter. I want it to be as meaningful as possible. I want to feel accomplished. With myself, as a wife, as a mother, as a family member, as a friend...<br />
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<i>My life is full of blessings.</i> Through the piles of both clean and dirty laundry, overflowing toilets, the cobwebs in the corners of a room, the toys spilled out all over the playroom floor, the whining, the tantrums, the difficult mornings in which I'm lucky if I've brushed my own hair that day...I need to remember the blessings. Time goes too quickly, I've learned.<br />
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I need to wrap myself <i>more</i> around the things that matter and soak them up. <br />
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<i>I know this much to be true. </i><br />
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<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10328778434282727641noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8821031433267653905.post-78205204577169668492013-08-01T09:00:00.000-04:002013-08-13T14:11:53.036-04:0025 Things To Do With Your Kids (end of summer ideas)!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8tVZeXVCcuInUAeMg0H9O_WAlaoTR5WIil47sArlNiyqUYeTKvyiA8JGjkRV5dVT2tAxQOYrtvYLu3Eb3JR1jA7uuBtsKPJYh76dv5uVl02CK8f5ceDQUBos7Lh_jntPJdJ3qEzAM5CU/s1600/summer2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8tVZeXVCcuInUAeMg0H9O_WAlaoTR5WIil47sArlNiyqUYeTKvyiA8JGjkRV5dVT2tAxQOYrtvYLu3Eb3JR1jA7uuBtsKPJYh76dv5uVl02CK8f5ceDQUBos7Lh_jntPJdJ3qEzAM5CU/s1600/summer2.jpg" height="366" width="400" /></a></div>
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Looking for something to do with your kids and try to keep them busy in these last few days of summer? Of course there is always back to school shopping, but why not try something from the list below for some end of summer fun!<br />
<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>Visit your local library.</li>
<li>Go to the park/playground. </li>
<li>Set up the tent in the backyard for a night of impromptu camping!</li>
<li>Have a treasure hunt.</li>
<li>Go <a href="http://www.geocaching.com/">geocaching</a>. </li>
<li>Make and play with homemade <a href="http://www.samplestuff.com/2012/05/how-to-make-homemade-playdough-or-finger-paints/" target="_blank">playdough</a>.</li>
<li>Go on a nature walk. </li>
<li>Play with <a href="http://www.ehow.com/how_2146302_create-sensory-tub.html" target="_blank">sensory tubs</a>. </li>
<li>Plant a flower or tree together.</li>
<li>Have a water fight.</li>
<li>Walk to the general store for slush puppies!</li>
<li>Sidewalk chalk.</li>
<li>Ride bikes.</li>
<li>Make an obstacle course in the yard with hula hoops and other play items.</li>
<li>Act out a story from a book, <a href="http://www.thatswhatchesaid.net/2012/chicka-chicka-boom-boom-activity/" target="_blank">like this one</a>. </li>
<li>Build a fort. </li>
<li>Have a picnic.</li>
<li>Get ice cream.</li>
<li>Have a lemonade stand.</li>
<li>Visit a water park. </li>
<li>Go to the zoo. </li>
<li>Visit your local museum. (Ours have free passes through our local libraries)</li>
<li>Go to the movies. (Check your local theater for free movies for kids during the summer)</li>
<li>Spend the day at the beach or lake. </li>
<li>Go bowling. <br />
</li>
</ol>
Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10328778434282727641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8821031433267653905.post-8705886842007051982013-07-26T12:23:00.000-04:002013-07-26T12:23:37.891-04:00Five Minute Friday - Broken<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg63XeyRv0gf3UJAVe7EyQCZn44X_g220JzW6Oaz_UWs_BS9ZiWD9xZHePfY6GDaseOQEmwfLjcZt6MYUqP0SWw6MIiWefaTguqjfmkHYRDPmPdTqIhX9tDcUbP_JVcOvd6jLNq3dBCRQ/s1600/5-minute-friday-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg63XeyRv0gf3UJAVe7EyQCZn44X_g220JzW6Oaz_UWs_BS9ZiWD9xZHePfY6GDaseOQEmwfLjcZt6MYUqP0SWw6MIiWefaTguqjfmkHYRDPmPdTqIhX9tDcUbP_JVcOvd6jLNq3dBCRQ/s1600/5-minute-friday-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I'm joining up with Lisa Jo Baker and some amazing women for Five Minute
Friday. One word. Five minutes. No editing. Learn more <a href="http://lisajobaker.com/2013/05/five-minute-friday-song/" target="_blank">HERE</a>. <br />
<br />
Today's word is:<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #990000;">BROKEN</span></span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: small;">GO</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">I drove my girls to day care this morning. Leia was in the
back seat crying because she didn’t like the song that was playing on the
radio. We passed a man walking a dog. She cried harder because she couldn’t see
it. When I shut the car off and got the kids out of their car seats, I didn’t
do it fast enough. Leia cried more. When she got out of the car, she couldn’t
see her day care friend in the window any longer. She threw herself on the
ground and declared that she wouldn’t stand. I carried her into the house,
where she continued to cry because she couldn’t find her ball. The ball was
discovered and handed to her. She threw herself on the floor in the entryway,
belly down, and continued to cry. Minutes that seemed like hours later, the day
care provider and I were able to redirect her to some music. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Katie came in the room, and wanted to sit on my lap. She
scooted up. Leia wanted my lap too. Each child got a leg. Katie began to cry
because she didn’t have enough room. I took her into the other room and we sat
for a minute as she told me it wasn’t fair that she didn’t get time in my lap
alone, and Leia had earlier. She cried for a little while longer as a friend
came over and patted her back. I attempted to leave to go to work. Katie cried
more, telling me that she doesn’t like to stay at day care. I reminded her it
was Friday and the weekend was coming. She asked me to stay until she go snack.
In the playroom she cried harder when she discovered a cob web on the ceiling,
right above her head. It was taken care of. She cried again when she kissed my
forehead, nose, lips, and finally my chin goodbye. She told me she didn’t want
me to leave, that she needed me, and was going to follow me out. As I walked
out the door, she ran away sobbing. As I was driving out of the driveway, she
appeared in the bay window of the dining room and waved as she sobbed even
harder. I kept looking back, seeing her tearful face watching me leave. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As I drove away, I felt broken. </div>
</span><br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;">STOP </span><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #990000;"> </span></span></b>Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10328778434282727641noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8821031433267653905.post-67634453971421874962013-05-24T13:14:00.000-04:002013-05-24T13:15:58.941-04:00Five Minute Friday: View<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg63XeyRv0gf3UJAVe7EyQCZn44X_g220JzW6Oaz_UWs_BS9ZiWD9xZHePfY6GDaseOQEmwfLjcZt6MYUqP0SWw6MIiWefaTguqjfmkHYRDPmPdTqIhX9tDcUbP_JVcOvd6jLNq3dBCRQ/s1600/5-minute-friday-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg63XeyRv0gf3UJAVe7EyQCZn44X_g220JzW6Oaz_UWs_BS9ZiWD9xZHePfY6GDaseOQEmwfLjcZt6MYUqP0SWw6MIiWefaTguqjfmkHYRDPmPdTqIhX9tDcUbP_JVcOvd6jLNq3dBCRQ/s1600/5-minute-friday-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I'm joining up with Lisa Jo Baker and some amazing women for Five Minute
Friday. One word. Five minutes. No editing. Learn more <a href="http://lisajobaker.com/2013/05/five-minute-friday-song/" target="_blank">HERE</a>. <br />
<br />
Today's prompt is:<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #990000;">VIEW</span></span></b><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I view myself in so many different ways.<br />
<br />
A wife, a mother, a sister, a daughter, a friend... <br />
<br />
Keeper of the laundry, dishes, cleaning, dusting, mopping, vacuuming, bath-time duties, sippy-cup filling, diaper changing, hair brushing, toy picker-upper, nose-blower, teeth-brusher, boo-boo kisser, potty companion (because you know, there might be spiders or monsters in there), tucker-inner, night-time sleep checker, etc. etc.<br />
<br />
I think I should rearrange the order up above. <i>Mothering always comes first.</i><br />
<br />
You've seen it typed here before, a thousand times I'm sure. <i>Mothering.</i> It is the most rewarding, and the most challenging experience all wrapped up into one. <br />
<br />
I think it's so hard for us Moms to find that time to actively and equally give to all of our relationship titles. Those babies pop out, and our priorites sure do change in a jiffy, don't they?<br />
<br />
Lately I've been reassessing my life, my roles, and myself, and trying to figure out how to have a better balance. For the above. And for me. <br />
<br />
I feel that while I've gained so much from the two little girls who call me "Momma," I've lost a bit of me - "pre-Momma".<br />
<br />
I want my daughters to always know that I am there for them, and to feel and know this incredible love I have for them. But I also want to start taking better care of me. Physically, mentally, spiritually.<br />
<br />
Because I think it's important for them to see that, too. <br />
<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10328778434282727641noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8821031433267653905.post-60083281737189955972013-05-17T11:03:00.001-04:002013-05-24T13:14:06.403-04:00Five Minute Friday: Song<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg63XeyRv0gf3UJAVe7EyQCZn44X_g220JzW6Oaz_UWs_BS9ZiWD9xZHePfY6GDaseOQEmwfLjcZt6MYUqP0SWw6MIiWefaTguqjfmkHYRDPmPdTqIhX9tDcUbP_JVcOvd6jLNq3dBCRQ/s1600/5-minute-friday-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg63XeyRv0gf3UJAVe7EyQCZn44X_g220JzW6Oaz_UWs_BS9ZiWD9xZHePfY6GDaseOQEmwfLjcZt6MYUqP0SWw6MIiWefaTguqjfmkHYRDPmPdTqIhX9tDcUbP_JVcOvd6jLNq3dBCRQ/s1600/5-minute-friday-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I'm joining up with Lisa Jo Baker and some amazing women for Five Minute
Friday. One word. Five minutes. No editing. Learn more <a href="http://lisajobaker.com/2013/05/five-minute-friday-song/" target="_blank">HERE</a>. <br />
<br />
Today's prompt is:<br />
<h1>
<span style="color: #993300;">Song….</span></h1>
<span style="color: #993300;"><b>GO</b></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #993300;"><span style="color: black;">These girls of mine, they love to sing. All day long. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #993300;"><span style="color: black;">And I love to listen to them.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #993300;"><span style="color: black;">I love the sound of their sweet little child voices singing the words to whatever nursery rhyme or pop radio song comes into their heads. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #993300;"><span style="color: black;">Leia cracks me up when she sings, "Twinkle, Twinkle yittle stah, how I wonda what yee ah." </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #993300;"><span style="color: black;">And Katie as she sings to Angelina Ballerina's Butterfly song, and instead of singing, 'When I'm swooping' she sings, "When I'm pooking," and I can't help but envision the little mouse ballerina puking all over the place. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #993300;"><span style="color: black;">Both girls love to sing and dance. Yes, we often have impromptu dance parties, plastic spoon microphones and all. They will often ask for the radio to be on at home, or to watch music videos of their favorite songs on YouTube. Recently Leia has told me "turn up" the radio in the car, and then this morning that we couldn't get out of the car at day care yet because, "I'm dancin." Current song obsessions include, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J91ti_MpdHA" target="_blank">This Girl is on Fire</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LPgvNlrBfb0" target="_blank">I Want You Back</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9bZkp7q19f0" target="_blank">Gangnam Style</a>, and anything by <a href="http://www.taylorswift.com/" target="_blank">Taylor Swift</a>, but most particularly, Trouble. </span></span><br />
<br />
And if you live around here, you may have even heard Miss Leia singing at the top of her lungs at our local Target, "OHHHHH, Twubble, Twubble!" Or as Katie says, "Fwubble."<br />
<br />
It amazes me how many songs they know.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #993300;"><span style="color: black;">I will never tire of hearing their little voic</span><span style="color: black;">es as they sing. </span></span>Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10328778434282727641noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8821031433267653905.post-9554235030927835902013-04-05T14:38:00.001-04:002013-04-05T14:38:58.355-04:00Five Minute Friday - AfterI sat in the middle of my girls' playroom last night, picking up the never-ending toys scattered around the room. My husband was making dinner (oh thank you, wonderful husband for taking over this task, and being so incredible at it to boot), and the girls were in the living room; one sitting in her kid-sized rocker watching t.v., and the other digging through an Easter basket of little toys. I happened to look up from organizing the toys back in their appropriate bins, and catch sight of my two young daughters. My two young daughters who happened to look <i>too old </i>to me at that moment. <br />
<br />
I remembered taking in those last few moments of Katie being an only child. I remember her blonde hair pulled to the side with a barrette, as she sucked on her sippy cup. I remember wondering how it would all be different tomorrow, with the addition of a new child to our family. This was the before. What was the <i>after </i>going to be like? How would it change us, individually and as a family? I had difficulty visualizing it all.<br />
<br />
And then, coming back to the present moment, right here before me are my two, beautiful and amazing daughters, growing up right before my eyes and far too quickly. My youngest, Leia, looked more like a little girl, and less of a baby in that moment. I was suddenly shocked to realize that she is the same age now as Katie was when Leia was born. How could this be? It seemed like just yesterday that I held this little girl in my arms for the first time. When I introduced Katie to her little sister for the first time. When our world became entirely different, new, changed. And then I looked at Katie, my first-born, who would be entering pre-school, yes <i>pre-school</i>, in the fall. And again I had to wonder, where did the time go?<br />
<br />
Our lives are comprised of so many befores and afters. It's so interesting to see where this journey of life leads each of us along the way. Sometimes we are stuck in the middle of an after, and we so badly want things to be like they were before. It's not until we're truly waist-deep in the afters that we realize why that before had to happen, almost like a little push to help us along this journey, to lead us to where we're supposed to be, right now, <i>today</i>.<br />
<br />
This after? I wouldn't change it for the world. It's hard to think about
what life was like before little Leia came into it. When we were just a
family of three, instead of four. It's even harder to remember what
life was like before Katie.<br />
<br />
<i>I love this after. </i><br />
<br />
It wasn't long before Katie looked in my direction, as I sat in the middle of the playroom, surrounded by play food, Barbies, Squinkies, Princesses, foam swords, and goodness knows what else. She caught my eye, and I was quickly snapped out of thought. In a moment, she quietly walked over to me and asked me why I was looking at her and her sister? And why did I look so sad?<br />
<br />
I told her because I was remembering when they were little, and how they were growing up too fast, and how I just wanted them to stay my little girls.<br />
<br />
Sometimes we find an after that is just so beautiful and incredible that we want nothing more then to dig our finger nails into it, and hold onto it as tightly as we can. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10328778434282727641noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8821031433267653905.post-35327538856791236672013-03-22T11:57:00.004-04:002013-03-22T11:57:32.939-04:00Five Minute Friday - RememberI remember. <br />
<br />
I remember that sweet button nose, and how it was the strongest memory I had of you when they wheeled you out of the hospital room and took you away from me. That, and the soft pink knit hat you wore on your newborn head. The same hat I slept with when I returned home, alone, and had to leave you at the hospital for the first time.<br />
<br />
I remember you now, your sweet sparkly eyes. Those same eyes that everyone comments on. Even strangers, the ones who stop me out in public simply to tell me how beautiful you are.<br />
<br />
I remember the last moment when you would be our only child, that last moment before we would welcome your baby sister into this world, and into our lives. I remember watching you as you sucked from your sippy cup in your playroom, and I wondered how our lives would all be changing.<br />
<br />
I remember the nausea, the room spinning, and then that moment when they held you, my youngest daughter up, to show me. I remember yellow. Which is now your favorite color...<br />
<br />
I remember being brought back to the hospital room, concerns about my extremely low blood pressure. I remember how everything else faded away when they placed you on my chest for the first time. I remember just taking you all in. <br />
<br />
I remember.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>This blog post is part of <a href="http://lisajobaker.com/2013/03/five-minute-friday-remember-2/" target="_blank">Five Minute Friday hosted by Lisa-Jo Baker</a>. Please stop by, and join in. </i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://lisajobaker.com/2013/03/five-minute-friday-remember-2/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRFm6XtyjP_KWvUNYdeZ07l33IqU9bvVSR0wi45LXJfwRLfGu3uhffepyjolVHhDVDBeBloNkf0xlb0ICuW3phTzaeK70jbc3EHSjpn4tB2ikqIc-twgFyOvCit4il2P_suoIWLnLU7z8/s1600/5-minute-friday-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10328778434282727641noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8821031433267653905.post-14086141812420691992013-03-12T14:11:00.001-04:002013-03-12T14:11:53.230-04:00Around hereRecently heard from the littles:<br />
<br />
<br />
After seeing me pouting during a conversation with the hubs, Leia looks at me and asks, <i>"What wrong?" </i>She then says, <i>"I kiss it</i>," and proceeds to pucker up.<br />
<br />
Upon greeting Leia 'good morning,' she smirks and replies, "<i>I faw-ted.</i>" <br />
<br />
Katie: <i>"Mom, can you start my movie?"</i><br />
Me: <i>"Yes, honey."</i><br />
Katie: <i>"Aww, that's so sweet of you!"</i><br />
<br />
Upon receiving the last squirt of whipped cream from the canister, Katie points to herself and exclaims, "<i>Winner!</i>" then points into the other room where her father is and shouts, "<i>Loser!</i>"<br />
<br />
Katie was telling me that she and her dad are awesome. She then gives me a concerned look and says, "<i>well, you are a </i>little<i> bit awesome, Momma"</i> and holds up her pointer finger and thumb together to demonstrate.<br />
<br />
And then this...<br />
While in day care, the provider overheard Katie and her friend talking. Katie gave a deep sigh, then stated, "<i>I really wish I had a boyfriend.</i>" Said comment was followed up by lots of smiles and giggles between the two girls. <br />
<br />
Did I mention that she's 3?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10328778434282727641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8821031433267653905.post-86477214870716156282013-02-26T12:16:00.000-05:002013-02-26T12:16:45.788-05:00Talk TimeMy husband and I take turns putting each of our daughters to bed. Over the weekend, when it was my turn to put Katie to bed, I initiated a new part to her bedtime routine. <br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Talk Time</i></span><br />
<br />
As I mentioned in my last blog post, I stumbled upon this wonderful idea that Rachel over at <a href="http://www.handsfreemama.com/2011/04/12/what-began-as-a-question/" target="_blank">Hands Free Mama</a> put into place with her own daughters. <br />
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When I first mentioned the words <i>talk time</i> to Katie, her eyes got wide and she looked a bit nervous. I had to reassure her that she wasn't in trouble for anything, and then I explained that it would be a time for her to be able to talk to me about anything she wanted, or ask me any questions she had. <br />
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She became very excited.<br />
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I used Rachel's idea of initiating the conversation with me asking a question.<br />
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<i>"Do you have any questions about when I was a kid?"</i><br />
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She thought for a moment, and then asked, <i>"Did you use a paci (pacifier) when you were a baby?" </i>Which was interesting, because I had to think for a minute. I don't recall ever seeing any pictures of me with a pacifier, so I couldn't say for sure<i>, </i>and I told her so.<br />
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Her next question was about going to get donuts in the morning, just her and I.<br />
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Then she looked at me and said, <i>"I have a lot of questions, Momma." </i>I assured her that she could ask more, and we could have talk time each night when I put her to bed.<br />
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She looked around her bedroom, and spotted her stuffed animals. <i>"Mom, I don't really use <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/?title=Plankton_%28character%29" target="_blank">Plankton</a> any more. Maybe I could give him away to another girl." </i><br />
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Her last question that night inquired about having a drink of water.<br />
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Last night was round two of <i>Talk Time.</i> Again, she was very excited. And again, she told me she had <b><i>a lot</i></b> of questions. <br />
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She started with, <i>"I was wondering if maybe we could have a tag sale and I could give all the toys I don't play with to other kids who don't have a lot of toys." </i>My sweet, thoughtful child. We talked about giving to others, and perhaps donating some toys to the local hospital.<br />
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She then told me that she doesn't like her (bunk) bed anymore, and she would rather have a bed like Mom and Dad's. She also informed me that she needs to switch bedrooms. When I asked her why, she said, <i>"Because my bedroom is next to Leia's, and she snores really loud."</i> Which made me chuckle. And no, Leia does not snore. Their father on the other hand...<br />
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Katie was quite tired last night, and didn't want to ask many more questions. I think however, that this is the start of a great tradition, and a wonderful way to connect with her. I look forward to when Leia is old enough to also have <i>talk time</i>. I lam eager to learn about the thoughts spiraling in their little minds, and deepening our mother/daughter relationships. <br />
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<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10328778434282727641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8821031433267653905.post-34830479156892015892013-02-22T14:24:00.001-05:002013-03-01T11:14:06.312-05:00Five for FridayJust some fun sites and links today of things that have been of interest to me lately. Enjoy and happy weekend!<br />
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<li>The <a href="http://kikicomin.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/st-pattys-quick-idea.jpg" target="_blank">picture</a> above cracked me up. </li>
<li><a href="http://www.handsfreemama.com/2011/04/12/what-began-as-a-question/" target="_blank">What Began As a Question</a> - Creating memories and connections with your children. <i>I'm so doing this with Katie tonight. </i><i> </i></li>
<li><i> </i><a href="http://countrygirlhome.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Country Girl Home</a> <---- blog.="" li="" nbsp="" this="">
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<li><a href="http://www.thredup.com/" target="_blank">ThredUp</a> - An online consignment store where you can buy or sell gently used children's clothing. </li>
<li><a href="http://www.rodworks.com/" target="_blank">Rod Works</a> - A wonderful website I discovered that offers fabulous home decor at great prices! I'm totally inspired by these frame rods. </li>
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Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10328778434282727641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8821031433267653905.post-65455142884194125822013-02-06T12:46:00.001-05:002013-02-06T12:46:12.812-05:00Girls, Sisters, Friends. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">I adore this picture, fak<span style="font-size: x-small;">e tattoos and all.</span></span></div>
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Those two sweet girls in the last post - well, they certainly keep my heart full, as well as keep me on my toes!<br />
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Katie is a sweet, snuggly young girl, and while she may have her moments of anger and frustration, deep down she has a big heart. She is constantly telling me she loves me throughout the day. It is the sweetest thing having her big blue eyes look into mine, as her little arms are wrapped around my neck. Just yesterday she told me "you're my love" and she's constantly saying, "that's what loves do" when she does something nice for someone. Katie will be in preschool this fall, which seems so hard to believe. I still remember that day in the hospital when she was born. People always talk about how fast they grow, and it is so, so true. Just when I think about the next thing she should be learning or the next skill she should be acquiring, and how far away that accomplishment seems, she's doing it. Currently she is learning to write her name. She concentrates on writing her letters, and soaks everything up like a little sponge. And talk about proud; she is <i>so</i> proud of herself. As she should be. She created her first "person" the other day. I have been waiting for this moment; I just think little kids' drawings of people are so adorable. I was probably way more excited than I should have been! <br />
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Leia is our little jokester. She finds humor in everything, and is always trying to make people laugh. Just the other day she put her lunch bowl on her head and started laughing at our dog, <a href="http://jodithegirl.blogspot.com/2012/11/optimus.html" target="_blank">Optimus,</a> exclaiming, "Hat! Hat!" She is constantly testing the limits and pushing buttons. And every time, she laughs about it. Time outs? They don't phase her; she takes them with a smirk. She is our sweet and silly girl. She is picking up more and more words, and really starting to put them together. She loves the "Pad" (iPad), books, babies, her dog, snuggles with Daddy, and music. Turn on some music, and that girl can't resist dancing. Especially if it's <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9bZkp7q19f0" target="_blank"><i>Gangnam Style</i></a>. She is fiercely independent, but lately she won't let Mommy out of her sight. She is usually grabbing my hand, saying, "c'mon." If I'm walking into a different room of the house, she runs after me screaming, "Wait!" <br />
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And these two as sisters? They have their moments, but they sure do love each other. They're always looking out for one another, and are playing more and more together. They love to chase each other around the house, and the sound of their combined giggles warms this Momma's heart.<br />
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Sisters. They are the best. Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10328778434282727641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8821031433267653905.post-7122478208711595002013-02-05T15:33:00.000-05:002013-02-05T15:33:13.837-05:00A new year...in February.<i>dusts cobwebs away...</i><br />
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Hello? Anyone there?<br />
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It's me. The author of this blog.<br />
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2013 started off with great intentions and new goals, including <a href="http://www.beckyhiggins.com/products/what-is-project-life.php" target="_blank">Project Life</a> and blogging more.<br />
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And then the dreaded <i>plague</i> hit our home. Every single one of us. For just about the entire month of January. The hubs and youngest are still on antibiotics.<br />
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So, while we're still not out of the woods completely, I'm ready to tackle these goals of mine. Because I want to remember all the moments I can...<br />
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What are your goals for 2013?<br />
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<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10328778434282727641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8821031433267653905.post-69836498290076131702012-11-06T15:14:00.003-05:002012-11-06T15:14:32.763-05:00Optimus<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">April 2011 </span></div>
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Our dog has been ill for quite some time. It took his doctors several months to figure out exactly what was going on with him.<br />
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One summer day, Optimus was sick - he was throwing up, wasn't eating or drinking, barely going potty (pardon the Mommy term), and was clearly uncomfortable. The vet's office recommended we bring him right in. He was kept overnight for tests and observations, and by the next day seemed better. He was sent home. A few days later we noticed his eyes weren't right. They seemed to roll up into his head, which was actually his third eyelid protecting his eye, and he was producing a lot of discharge. He was seen at the vet's again, where it was discovered that his pupils were different sizes. The dr. thought he had a continuation of the virus he had originally come in with earlier in the week, was showing an allergy to something, or had experienced trauma of some sort. He was prescribed an eye ointment.<br />
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A few days later, we noticed the skin on his nose was very dry and literally flaking off. Then he began to lose the hair around his eyes, as well as the pigmentation around his nose and jowls. Again, the doctors didn't know if this was a continuation of the original visit symptoms or something more. Optimus was prescribed antibiotics, which seemed to help. However, when he finished the dosage, his eye and nose symptoms returned. It was now time for biopsies. He had samples taken from his eye, nose, mouth, and paw pad.<br />
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Optimus was diagnosed with a superficial skin disorder similar to Lupus. Since his diagnosis, he was put on a two month round of medications. Originally, they seemed to help. Some of his hair was coming back, though it was coming in white instead of black, and it looked as though he was getting some of his pigmentation back in his jowls and nose. More recently however, he started to become quite irritated around his eyes, and he started losing more fur on his face, and it started to extend to his ears. He is losing so much fur, we seriously can't keep up with it around the house. As of Friday, he was prescribed steroids. <br />
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While this disease doesn't seem to affect him pain-wise, his features are so sad to look at. He's been nicknamed by our daycare provider as "racoon," which is an appropriate description of what he looks like.<br />
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Nevertheless, he is still as naughty, loving, and crazy as he's always been! Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10328778434282727641noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8821031433267653905.post-68300637685955944412012-10-24T13:45:00.004-04:002012-11-06T15:15:20.760-05:00LifeI'm back...and then I'm not. Life has been busy and hectic, for sure.<br />
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Our dog has been ill, and it took a couple of months before the doctors were able to provide us with a diagnosis.<br />
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I've had some medical issues of my own.<br />
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We've been planning and getting ready for the infamous Halloween Party. It's been 4 years since our last event, and while I'm looking forward to it, I'll be glad when it's done and we can have our routine back. <br />
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And then you've got life with two young children, which just keeps things crazyfunmessytiring...to name a few. I can't seem to keep up with the house these days with a one and three year old running around. Who am I kidding, the house chores never seem to be completely caught up. I guess I am just noticing it more these days.<br />
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So, I'll be back soon...with more specific updates and details on the above... and really, <i>I will be back soon</i>. I'm realizing more and more that I need to carve out some time for "me" each day, and writing has always been something I've enjoyed. I'm looking forward to getting one (or both!) of these under the Christmas Tree this year: <br />
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Things are crazy busy, but I don't want to forget the little things, and the big things, that go on. And I think it will be important to take the time to slow down for a bit each day, reflect, and write down the things that will one day be memories. <br />
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<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10328778434282727641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8821031433267653905.post-60807575391441458242012-08-02T00:05:00.003-04:002012-08-02T00:05:56.469-04:00I'm back!More details coming soon!<br />
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In the meantime, can anyone help me to delete that visible box around my title right up there? *points up*Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10328778434282727641noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8821031433267653905.post-62709108686602754262011-11-22T19:00:00.002-05:002011-11-22T19:00:01.837-05:00Why I don't blog enough, and how I blame my husband<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">Yes,</span></strong> I am still here. Well, not HERE, on this blog, but still alive and kicking. <br />
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I blame my husband. <br />
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You see, it all started back on Christmas Day last year. When I opened my last Christmas gift, and was totally shocked and surprised at receiving an iPad. I hadn't asked for one. I had no huge interest in having one. Yet, I did. In my hands. For me. (Well, not really. It was gifted as a "family gift." But more on that later).<br />
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To be completely honest, I didn't care much for the iPad at first. Call it old habits. Call it routine. Call it what you want, but that little iPad was a passing notion when I wanted to puruse online. Instead, I would heft my old familiar friend, my laptop, into my lap each day. And then something happened. <br />
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I was pregnant. And it started to get uncomfortable hefting that hot laptop into my lap every day. The iPad was so much smaller and portable. Cue the pillows, the blankets, my comfy bed, and my new friend, the iPad propped up on my knees, against a pillow, or wherever the heck had me in a comfortable pregnant position that day...ahh, I had been converted. <br />
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To further my love affair with the iPad was when my second daughter, Leia was born. Feedings were so much better with my trusty techy side-kick. <br />
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And it is a perfect family gift. We all use and love it (well Leia not so much right now, but I'm sure she will in time). Katie has had countless fun with the educational and sometimes not-so-educational apps (Angry Birds, anyone?). And she enjoys watching her videos on YouTube. I think most importantly, she enjoys being able to get on and navigate the iPad herself. Little Miss Independent. And I won't admit that she may be better on the iPad then her parents are. <br />
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How does the iPad contribute to my lack of blogging? Well, since I'm on the iPad so much, I'm on my laptop so much less. And I do have to admit that I prefer to blog on a regular keyboard. The iPad (especially that autocorrect thing) make it a tad tedious of a process. So, since the iPad and I are such close companions now, my laptop, along with blogging, have been put on the back burner. <br />
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So there you have it. The reason I blog less, and why I blame my husband. <br />
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Perhaps I shall add "Blog More" to my list of New Year's resolutions. Oh good God, did I just jump ahead to New Year's already? This year has flown by...<br />
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In the meantime, perhaps I can make it up to you all (ahem, the handful of you) with a darling photo of two other reasons of how my time is consumed these days. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeG3-P3Z07sysc757KFfpgKshLW5mmIbAwYXHka-GO21nbd2qKhnjMrRNizl9T8je_DZgHe5qYzzEOPt9UrqHbVcRU0ZKR9vQyRjzlCbLAwgEKBFD9GHjTdMDLXFVYtEkqxITc1Q_kXYE/s1600/sisters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeG3-P3Z07sysc757KFfpgKshLW5mmIbAwYXHka-GO21nbd2qKhnjMrRNizl9T8je_DZgHe5qYzzEOPt9UrqHbVcRU0ZKR9vQyRjzlCbLAwgEKBFD9GHjTdMDLXFVYtEkqxITc1Q_kXYE/s320/sisters.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10328778434282727641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8821031433267653905.post-56644330414814298622011-05-24T22:09:00.003-04:002011-06-07T14:50:32.313-04:00Leia Grace<div style="text-align: center;">On Monday, May 2, 2011, this beautiful little bundle of joy made her entrance into the world, weighing in at 6 lbs 14 ounces, and measuring 20 1/2 inches long. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Leia was welcomed by Mommy, Daddy, and very special big sister, Katie. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(as well as big fur-brother, Optimus)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We are in love with the newest addition to our family. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Details of her birth and how we're all adjusting coming soon...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(I've been a little busy snuggling a certain newborn). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">:)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10328778434282727641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8821031433267653905.post-38109163188396552052011-04-22T12:47:00.001-04:002011-04-22T12:55:42.291-04:00Still wipedStill wiped - I had my doctor do a strep throat culture on me, but won't know the results until tomorrow. I went to bed early last night, but it didn't help. For the entire night, I could only sleep for about 20-30 minutes at a time. I couldn't get comfortable, and I alternated between having the chills and breaking out in a sweat. It was definitely a long, long night. I am exhausted today. And still feeling like crud. <br />
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Doctor's appointment went well, otherwise. My OB wants to do one more ultrasound to check on the position of the placenta. If it's moved enough, my c-section date may be moved to closer to my due date (May 19th). Nothing like the last minute, right? I know it's in the baby's best interest though to stay inside for the extra 10 days or so, if possible. But let me tell you, I'm looking forward to the end of this pregnancy. My body is just one achy mess!<br />
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On a different note, I'm really looking forward to celebrating Easter with Katie. She's at an age now where I think she will have so much fun with everything!<br />
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<div style="background-color: #f3f3f3; color: #741b47; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Happy Easter!</b></span></div>Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10328778434282727641noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8821031433267653905.post-33712227565522781202011-04-21T17:00:00.001-04:002011-04-21T17:00:00.159-04:00WipedAfter a day and a half of running a fever, the little one was diagnosed with Strep yesterday. She and I stayed home and tried to rest and relax with quiet time, movies, and cuddling. Katie seems to be doing fine, but Mommy is not, and I'll tell you why.<br />
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Administering medication to a toddler is not fun. Actually, it is extremely emotionally draining to this Momma. Katie does not want to take her medicine, so administering it to her usually consists of me holding her arms down and my husband having to hold her head still while we try to squirt enough of the medicine in her mouth. A lot of it will be spit out, and spills down Katie's face, neck and into her hair, creating what I affectionately call "crunchy hair." The poor little thing is so traumatized by the whole experience (as am I). Having to hold down your child is one of the worst things. And the tears, let's not forget the tears that follow.<br />
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When I laid her down last night for bed, I told her I was sorry she was sick and having such a hard time taking her medicine. Then I went into my bedroom and just cried. It was such an emotionally draining day. And to think she has 8 1/2 more days of the meds.<br />
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Secondly, I am feeling like crud. I woke up with a sore throat, cough, and feel like I've been hit by a mack truck. I really hope it's all just because of the crying last night, which usually wears me out the next day. I see my doctor tomorrow, so we'll just hope it's nothing.<br />
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If any of you have advice for giving medicine to a fighting child, please let me know. We've tried offering her hershey kisses before and after (to help coat her tongue), offering a drink after to help chase the med down, letting her squeeze the medicine in her mouth by herself, and changing the flavor of the medicine. Nothing has helped.<br />
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8 1/2 more days. 8 1/2 more days. 8 1/2 more days...Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10328778434282727641noreply@blogger.com1