Happy Halloween!! (from the Blog Witch and her little Goblin)
Friday, October 31, 2008
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Carter the Carver
There is no school today or tomorrow because of the state teacher convention, so I took both days off to spend them with Carter. Of course, you get a day off and you have to run the errands you can't do when you're working, so we had a lot of running around to do.
When I stopped to think about what day it was, though, I realized we hadn't carved a pumpkin (or bought one) yet. So we walked over to a neighboring farm where they do a little "Pumpkin Shed" business and picked up some goodies.
Say it with Sharpees: Since this pumpkin was too small to carve, Carter drew up a scary face with markers -- including a bloody knife drawn in the back of the head. Nice.
No guts, no glory: Always a kidder, Carter knows this photo will make the scrapbook every year. One of these times we have to do this when both Mommy and Daddy are home so the one not taking the picture can shove the spoon in Carter's mouth. OK, you're right, that's mean. It would be funny on a cartoon, though.
Connect the Dots: In order for Carter to have the pumpkin face he envisions, I have him draw it out on paper first, then we tape the paper to the "blank pumpkin" and punch little holes so he has a pattern to follow. (You'll notice he just about has that tongue out for concentration.) This helps us get away from Mommy's happy-faced pumpkins into the weirdness that is in the mind of a 10-year-old.
Speaking of Weird: Which is scarier anyway -- the pumpkin face or the "I wanna be a rock star" face? Yikes. I'm almost scared to go trick-or-treating! Good job on the pumpkin, though, Carter!
When I stopped to think about what day it was, though, I realized we hadn't carved a pumpkin (or bought one) yet. So we walked over to a neighboring farm where they do a little "Pumpkin Shed" business and picked up some goodies.
Say it with Sharpees: Since this pumpkin was too small to carve, Carter drew up a scary face with markers -- including a bloody knife drawn in the back of the head. Nice.
No guts, no glory: Always a kidder, Carter knows this photo will make the scrapbook every year. One of these times we have to do this when both Mommy and Daddy are home so the one not taking the picture can shove the spoon in Carter's mouth. OK, you're right, that's mean. It would be funny on a cartoon, though.
Connect the Dots: In order for Carter to have the pumpkin face he envisions, I have him draw it out on paper first, then we tape the paper to the "blank pumpkin" and punch little holes so he has a pattern to follow. (You'll notice he just about has that tongue out for concentration.) This helps us get away from Mommy's happy-faced pumpkins into the weirdness that is in the mind of a 10-year-old.
Speaking of Weird: Which is scarier anyway -- the pumpkin face or the "I wanna be a rock star" face? Yikes. I'm almost scared to go trick-or-treating! Good job on the pumpkin, though, Carter!
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Hole-Hearted
Sometimes we don't know the impact something has until it's gone, leaving a hole in its wake.
When I was doing some family tree investigating earlier this year, we found the foundation for my great-grandparents' home. Nothing there any more but a hole and some bricks. I wish the house was still there so I could see where they lived and how. But over time, the weeds grew there and it was forgotten.
Sometimes we'll come across footprints on the beach or in a snowy field and wonder who trod before us. Where were they going? Why did they choose this path? Did they see the same beautiful scenery we do? Eventually new snowfall fills the old footprints or the waves lap at the shoreline, erasing any evidence of man's path.
Sometimes when we lose someone we love, we find a hole in our heart. No matter how big or small that hole is, it's painful. An actual physical pain we can feel from our watering eyes down to our chest. We wonder if eventually someone will come along to fill it. I don't think it works that way.
I learned today my friend, colleague and mentor Karen has lost her battle with cancer. And it was a battle. The woman I knew and loved was feisty 'til the end, still optimistic she could beat this monster. For Karen, there is no longer pain, thank God. For her friends and family, we have painful holes in our hearts that we know no one could fill like she did. Ever.
Please take time today -- and every day -- to think about who is filling your heart and tell them! Don't wait until they leave a hole. Even the little ones hurt.
When I was doing some family tree investigating earlier this year, we found the foundation for my great-grandparents' home. Nothing there any more but a hole and some bricks. I wish the house was still there so I could see where they lived and how. But over time, the weeds grew there and it was forgotten.
Sometimes we'll come across footprints on the beach or in a snowy field and wonder who trod before us. Where were they going? Why did they choose this path? Did they see the same beautiful scenery we do? Eventually new snowfall fills the old footprints or the waves lap at the shoreline, erasing any evidence of man's path.
Sometimes when we lose someone we love, we find a hole in our heart. No matter how big or small that hole is, it's painful. An actual physical pain we can feel from our watering eyes down to our chest. We wonder if eventually someone will come along to fill it. I don't think it works that way.
I learned today my friend, colleague and mentor Karen has lost her battle with cancer. And it was a battle. The woman I knew and loved was feisty 'til the end, still optimistic she could beat this monster. For Karen, there is no longer pain, thank God. For her friends and family, we have painful holes in our hearts that we know no one could fill like she did. Ever.
Please take time today -- and every day -- to think about who is filling your heart and tell them! Don't wait until they leave a hole. Even the little ones hurt.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Circus Act
I sometimes think my life is a three-ring circus with all that is going on in the Family Ring, the Work Ring and the Other (catch-all) Ring. Things are always hopping so the crowd stays pretty interested. I suppose if they get bored, they can grab some popcorn or cotton candy and come back. Maybe things will change (imagine that) and be exciting again.
There's this misplaced belief that most kids, at some point in their childhood, want to run away to join the circus. Not me. Not my thing at all.
I'm not comfortable hanging out with wild animals that could either eat you (lions) or smush you (elephants) -- though trying to get others to do what you want sometimes is like coaxing a tiger to jump through a ring of fire, isn't it?
It would be fun to be a clown and make people laugh. I've done some clowning before, but those circus clowns are often used as decoys, too, to distract aforementioned animals. Yikes!
How about the trapeze or the tightrope? No way, says Miss Scared of Heights. Though I'd relate life right now to walking on a tightrope. Things are a tense balancing act in some of those Rings. How can I get across?
I need to keep my eyes on the goal ahead and not be distracted by the cheering or jeering crowd in the Family Ring. Maybe someday the teen section there will understand the line Dad and Stepmom Acrobat are walking.
I'm following some other acrobats across the Work Ring. The rope is not so steady here and some of my friends are falling off. I can't look down or vertigo will claim me and I'll fall, too. I hope the safety net catches them. I hope they bounce back and find new jobs.
I am going slowly over the Other Ring. There are so many little weights on each end of my balancing pole. I need to slowly and carefully shed a few while inching forward.
How can I walk the tightrope? The key for me: Don't look down and keep moving at a steady pace. When I look ahead, I see others have made the same trek and survived. I can do it, too. I will do it.
(And I'll be grateful for today they didn't ask me to swallow a sword or juggle flaming sticks.)
There's this misplaced belief that most kids, at some point in their childhood, want to run away to join the circus. Not me. Not my thing at all.
I'm not comfortable hanging out with wild animals that could either eat you (lions) or smush you (elephants) -- though trying to get others to do what you want sometimes is like coaxing a tiger to jump through a ring of fire, isn't it?
It would be fun to be a clown and make people laugh. I've done some clowning before, but those circus clowns are often used as decoys, too, to distract aforementioned animals. Yikes!
How about the trapeze or the tightrope? No way, says Miss Scared of Heights. Though I'd relate life right now to walking on a tightrope. Things are a tense balancing act in some of those Rings. How can I get across?
I need to keep my eyes on the goal ahead and not be distracted by the cheering or jeering crowd in the Family Ring. Maybe someday the teen section there will understand the line Dad and Stepmom Acrobat are walking.
I'm following some other acrobats across the Work Ring. The rope is not so steady here and some of my friends are falling off. I can't look down or vertigo will claim me and I'll fall, too. I hope the safety net catches them. I hope they bounce back and find new jobs.
I am going slowly over the Other Ring. There are so many little weights on each end of my balancing pole. I need to slowly and carefully shed a few while inching forward.
How can I walk the tightrope? The key for me: Don't look down and keep moving at a steady pace. When I look ahead, I see others have made the same trek and survived. I can do it, too. I will do it.
(And I'll be grateful for today they didn't ask me to swallow a sword or juggle flaming sticks.)
Monday, October 27, 2008
Extreme Makeovers
I am so excited to have the computer fixed that I had to share some groovy pictures we made from a cool Web site called befunky.com. When you get to the site, just click on "Cartoonizer." You can warp a picture or change it into a cool portrait. Funky stuff. Check it out!
BEFORE
BEFORE 
BEFORE
AFTER
BEFORE
Who says you can't find a reason to laugh on a Monday?
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Son-Day
You'd think it would have been a boring Sunday what with the Vikings (and Packers) on a bye week. Such was not the case.
Carter and I got up early to get to 8 o'clock church. This morning I had to be the reader for the first time ever. Why did I lose sleep over it? I don't know. I shouldn't have been nervous. I mean I speak in front of crowds (albeit small ones) more often than you might realize. And I had the text ahead of time for practice. But these were the world's longest scripture readings (for some special reformation service), plus there were a handful of tricky "thou" and "sayeth" parts. And I didn't know if the microphone was working and didn't want to do one of those "Can you hear me now?" things.
When I got back to the pew, Carter said, "Good job, Mom." So if he actually listened to the readings, then I really did do a good job (ha).
This afternoon the "big boys" came out and the in-laws came over (Jim's parents and sister and her family). Yesterday, Clay turned 16 so we were celebrating with cake and ice cream. It was nice to have sons 1, 2 and 3 together again. The last time the Austin 5 was together, and I wish I was kidding, was for my birthday extravaganza back in June.
That's sad. But I can't be mad about it. I realize when I was a teenager it was pretty tortuous spending family time with just my twin and my parents (ask me about a very long trip to Canada sometime). Of course, now I'd give anything to see my twin and my parents more often! Funny how the perspective changes.
The only depressing event of the day was the brief snowfall. Cross my heart. It's true! I tried to get a picture but it looked more like rain. Honest, we all saw it. You probably heard us cursing for miles! Thankfully, it was short-lived -- like less than 5 minutes -- but there is supposed to be more on the way tonight, landing in random spots across Minnesota and Wisconsin. I hope it's not falling right now, under the cover of darkness. I swear if I wake up to snow on the deck, I am heading South (and my sister in Texas better leave her door unlocked!).
Too bad there wasn't some warm sun on Sunday. That's OK. Just ask my hubby. Rain or shine, we'll take the son-day anytime.
Carter and I got up early to get to 8 o'clock church. This morning I had to be the reader for the first time ever. Why did I lose sleep over it? I don't know. I shouldn't have been nervous. I mean I speak in front of crowds (albeit small ones) more often than you might realize. And I had the text ahead of time for practice. But these were the world's longest scripture readings (for some special reformation service), plus there were a handful of tricky "thou" and "sayeth" parts. And I didn't know if the microphone was working and didn't want to do one of those "Can you hear me now?" things.
When I got back to the pew, Carter said, "Good job, Mom." So if he actually listened to the readings, then I really did do a good job (ha).
This afternoon the "big boys" came out and the in-laws came over (Jim's parents and sister and her family). Yesterday, Clay turned 16 so we were celebrating with cake and ice cream. It was nice to have sons 1, 2 and 3 together again. The last time the Austin 5 was together, and I wish I was kidding, was for my birthday extravaganza back in June.
That's sad. But I can't be mad about it. I realize when I was a teenager it was pretty tortuous spending family time with just my twin and my parents (ask me about a very long trip to Canada sometime). Of course, now I'd give anything to see my twin and my parents more often! Funny how the perspective changes.
The only depressing event of the day was the brief snowfall. Cross my heart. It's true! I tried to get a picture but it looked more like rain. Honest, we all saw it. You probably heard us cursing for miles! Thankfully, it was short-lived -- like less than 5 minutes -- but there is supposed to be more on the way tonight, landing in random spots across Minnesota and Wisconsin. I hope it's not falling right now, under the cover of darkness. I swear if I wake up to snow on the deck, I am heading South (and my sister in Texas better leave her door unlocked!).
Too bad there wasn't some warm sun on Sunday. That's OK. Just ask my hubby. Rain or shine, we'll take the son-day anytime.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Monopoly
One of the gifts I got for Sweetest Day last weekend (and you can guess who picked this out) was a Monopoly game. But this isn't just any Monopoly game. This one could only be appreciated in the Austin household -- at least around these parts.
It's a special edition Vikings Monopoly game where street names have been replaced with names of legendary players like Fran Tarkenton and Cris Carter, "Downs" are used instead of Railroads and cards are customized for the football theme.
The three of us finally got time today to play. I better mention Daddy won -- he was the only one with a monopoly (though I had both "utilities" and Carter had 3 of the 4 downs). We didn't have a prayer when we landed on Daddy's row of luxury suites, costing us a thousand bucks a crack. Yikes. We mutually forfeited before he had the pleasure of stripping us of all our belongings!
Win or lose, it felt good to have family time. Talk about a monopoly. We've had so many things monopolizing our time of late, that this was the first Saturday we did not have to be somewhere. No football. No out-of-town meetings. No nothing. It was great!
I found it was just about as productive as I needed it to be. I got some housework done, some laundry, too, and most importantly, I finished a scrapbook (the 2006 family album -- which makes it my 12th completed book. Whoo-hoo!). So that was my day.
I only left the house for a walk in the brisk wind. So no makeup. No hairspray. Just a relaxed look on my face. Oh, and that big loser "L" in the middle of my forehead! (Thanks, Daddy!)
It's a special edition Vikings Monopoly game where street names have been replaced with names of legendary players like Fran Tarkenton and Cris Carter, "Downs" are used instead of Railroads and cards are customized for the football theme.
The three of us finally got time today to play. I better mention Daddy won -- he was the only one with a monopoly (though I had both "utilities" and Carter had 3 of the 4 downs). We didn't have a prayer when we landed on Daddy's row of luxury suites, costing us a thousand bucks a crack. Yikes. We mutually forfeited before he had the pleasure of stripping us of all our belongings!
Win or lose, it felt good to have family time. Talk about a monopoly. We've had so many things monopolizing our time of late, that this was the first Saturday we did not have to be somewhere. No football. No out-of-town meetings. No nothing. It was great!
I found it was just about as productive as I needed it to be. I got some housework done, some laundry, too, and most importantly, I finished a scrapbook (the 2006 family album -- which makes it my 12th completed book. Whoo-hoo!). So that was my day.
I only left the house for a walk in the brisk wind. So no makeup. No hairspray. Just a relaxed look on my face. Oh, and that big loser "L" in the middle of my forehead! (Thanks, Daddy!)
Friday, October 24, 2008
Birthdays and Bylines
Besides being Mole Day yesterday, it was also my dad's 81st birthday.
I was a bad daughter and didn't get his cards sent until yesterday either. My logical 10-year-old said, "Wouldn't it be quicker if we just drove up there and gave them to him?" Well technically, yes, it would be quicker. But I refrained from telling him an 8-hour round trip in the car would cost significantly more than a few postage stamps. I didn't want him to think they weren't worth it. I said we'd call them and eventually make the trip.
Carter talked to them both first. As usual, when I get on the phone, they say how "grown-up and intelligent" he sounds. I wonder if they say that about me, too, when they get on the phone with the next family member! Quite unlikely.
Despite the fact Dad is old and Mom is recovering from cataract surgery, they were both in good spirits -- mainly because they have suddenly become local celebrities. (Now I regret discontinuing my subscription to the local newspaper.)
Apparently, Dad had his picture in a few weeks ago. I'm still not clear why he was photographed with a local politician, but he was excited about it. My mother had a story published in the history column. Dad says, "Yeah, she wrote about rollerskating and how we met and dated and got married." I asked, "Why is she suddenly writing about you, Dad? Did she fall in love with you again or something?" He said, "It must be the eye surgery." Yep, I'm sure that's it. She can see all his charms once again.
Mom was just thrilled to get published. I was very supportive and congratulatory. I did not mention that bylines do not equal fame and large paychecks. (That's my issue to live with.) I just told her I was proud of her and thanked her for passing along that gene. I'll get her blogging yet! Or at least guest blogging here! I have a feeling my pun-filled mother would fit right in, don't you?
I was a bad daughter and didn't get his cards sent until yesterday either. My logical 10-year-old said, "Wouldn't it be quicker if we just drove up there and gave them to him?" Well technically, yes, it would be quicker. But I refrained from telling him an 8-hour round trip in the car would cost significantly more than a few postage stamps. I didn't want him to think they weren't worth it. I said we'd call them and eventually make the trip.
Carter talked to them both first. As usual, when I get on the phone, they say how "grown-up and intelligent" he sounds. I wonder if they say that about me, too, when they get on the phone with the next family member! Quite unlikely.
Despite the fact Dad is old and Mom is recovering from cataract surgery, they were both in good spirits -- mainly because they have suddenly become local celebrities. (Now I regret discontinuing my subscription to the local newspaper.)
Apparently, Dad had his picture in a few weeks ago. I'm still not clear why he was photographed with a local politician, but he was excited about it. My mother had a story published in the history column. Dad says, "Yeah, she wrote about rollerskating and how we met and dated and got married." I asked, "Why is she suddenly writing about you, Dad? Did she fall in love with you again or something?" He said, "It must be the eye surgery." Yep, I'm sure that's it. She can see all his charms once again.
Mom was just thrilled to get published. I was very supportive and congratulatory. I did not mention that bylines do not equal fame and large paychecks. (That's my issue to live with.) I just told her I was proud of her and thanked her for passing along that gene. I'll get her blogging yet! Or at least guest blogging here! I have a feeling my pun-filled mother would fit right in, don't you?
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Happy Mole Day
Happy Mole Day! I wish this meant we had one day to take a shotgun and have free rein over all those critters digging up our back yard. But one, we don't even have a shotgun and two, it means something far different.
According to moleday.org (yes, such a site exists):
What is Mole Day? Celebrated annually on October 23 from 6:02 a.m. to 6:02 p.m., Mole Day commemorates Avogadro's Number (6.02 x 10^23), which is a basic measuring unit in chemistry. Mole Day was created as a way to foster interest in chemistry. Schools throughout the United States and around the world celebrate Mole Day with various activities related to chemistry and/or moles.
For a given molecule, one mole is a mass (in grams) whose number is equal to the atomic mass of the molecule. For example, the water molecule has an atomic mass of 18, therefore one mole of water weighs 18 grams. An atom of neon has an atomic mass of 20, therefore one mole of neon weighs 20 grams. In general, one mole of any substance contains Avogadro's Number of molecules or atoms of that substance. This relationship was first discovered by Amadeo Avogadro (1776-1858) and he received credit for this after his death.
Why do I care? I actually wouldn't if my stepson, whose a senior this year taking some advanced chemistry class, hadn't stopped by. He and a friend had to make t-shirts to somehow illustrate Mole Day, and they wanted to borrow some markers.
Of course, Robyn the Super Crafter says, "Wait a few minutes. I bet I have some fabric paint." I frantically searched my craft room. I did not want to fail on this mission! I didn't find exactly what I wanted but the paints worked and Casey stopped by later to show us his work of art.
I was glad I could be of help but even happier that Casey stopped by to seek it. Now that he is 17 and drives and has a job, we don't see much of him. His visit was such a nice treat. It has put a smile on my face all day.
I guess I have Amadeo Avogadro to thank for that. Happy Mole Day.
According to moleday.org (yes, such a site exists):
What is Mole Day? Celebrated annually on October 23 from 6:02 a.m. to 6:02 p.m., Mole Day commemorates Avogadro's Number (6.02 x 10^23), which is a basic measuring unit in chemistry. Mole Day was created as a way to foster interest in chemistry. Schools throughout the United States and around the world celebrate Mole Day with various activities related to chemistry and/or moles.
For a given molecule, one mole is a mass (in grams) whose number is equal to the atomic mass of the molecule. For example, the water molecule has an atomic mass of 18, therefore one mole of water weighs 18 grams. An atom of neon has an atomic mass of 20, therefore one mole of neon weighs 20 grams. In general, one mole of any substance contains Avogadro's Number of molecules or atoms of that substance. This relationship was first discovered by Amadeo Avogadro (1776-1858) and he received credit for this after his death.
Why do I care? I actually wouldn't if my stepson, whose a senior this year taking some advanced chemistry class, hadn't stopped by. He and a friend had to make t-shirts to somehow illustrate Mole Day, and they wanted to borrow some markers.
Of course, Robyn the Super Crafter says, "Wait a few minutes. I bet I have some fabric paint." I frantically searched my craft room. I did not want to fail on this mission! I didn't find exactly what I wanted but the paints worked and Casey stopped by later to show us his work of art.
I was glad I could be of help but even happier that Casey stopped by to seek it. Now that he is 17 and drives and has a job, we don't see much of him. His visit was such a nice treat. It has put a smile on my face all day.
I guess I have Amadeo Avogadro to thank for that. Happy Mole Day.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Wednesday Wonders
I wonder if I'll ever sit down and write that book.
I wonder when the scale will reflect my recent bouts of willpower.
I wonder if my friends and family realize how I often I think of them (and miss them!)
I wonder how this new solar system works with teenagers on one planet and parents (obviously!) on another.
I wonder how to protect my child from sticks, stones and name-calling bullies.
I wonder if kisses cure everything (I'd like to think so).
I wonder how I can ever keep a surprise a secret.
I wonder when I'll get to meet my next celebrity.
I wonder what made the cat puke on hubby's dresser yesterday.
I wonder when I'll totally embrace the recent changes at work.
I wonder what I did to get so spoiled by my "sweeties" on Sweetest Day.
I wonder how people live and breathe without love.
I wonder when the economy will change directions.
I wonder if it matters who we elect next week.
I wonder how long Pumpkin Pie Blizzards will be on sale at Dairy Queen.
Just wondering...
I wonder when the scale will reflect my recent bouts of willpower.
I wonder if my friends and family realize how I often I think of them (and miss them!)
I wonder how this new solar system works with teenagers on one planet and parents (obviously!) on another.
I wonder how to protect my child from sticks, stones and name-calling bullies.
I wonder if kisses cure everything (I'd like to think so).
I wonder how I can ever keep a surprise a secret.
I wonder when I'll get to meet my next celebrity.
I wonder what made the cat puke on hubby's dresser yesterday.
I wonder when I'll totally embrace the recent changes at work.
I wonder what I did to get so spoiled by my "sweeties" on Sweetest Day.
I wonder how people live and breathe without love.
I wonder when the economy will change directions.
I wonder if it matters who we elect next week.
I wonder how long Pumpkin Pie Blizzards will be on sale at Dairy Queen.
Just wondering...
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Blinding me with Science
I have a feeling I'll be dreaming about volcanoes and earthquakes tonight. No, I didn't overdose on the Weather Channel. I was helping Carter study for a science test.
I've quickly observed that fifth grade is way different from fourth grade. The teacher may talk about everything but the student has the responsibility to read about it, too, to thoroughly understand the subject matter.
This has been a bit of a challenge for our fifth-grader -- reading all the facts and new vocabulary and then, comprehending it. We have found that it helps if after Carter does the first pass, we read through it again together, then I ask him questions. Last week I had a flashback to American history. Tonight it was science.
It was actually a grueling two hours. We had 30 pages of content to cover, with concepts as straightforward as landforms to the four layers of the earth, the causes of earthquakes and volcano eruptions, and the effects of erosion. That's a whole lotta info for one test, I think. I actually wish I could take the test to see what I retained!
I'll probably revert back to the nervousness of my test-taking days and lose enough sleep for both us. Unless I stop for a minute and realize thoughts of shifting plates and fault lines would actually put me to sleep if I had to sit in a classroom and hear about them... Yeah, that's it. G'night.
I've quickly observed that fifth grade is way different from fourth grade. The teacher may talk about everything but the student has the responsibility to read about it, too, to thoroughly understand the subject matter.
This has been a bit of a challenge for our fifth-grader -- reading all the facts and new vocabulary and then, comprehending it. We have found that it helps if after Carter does the first pass, we read through it again together, then I ask him questions. Last week I had a flashback to American history. Tonight it was science.
It was actually a grueling two hours. We had 30 pages of content to cover, with concepts as straightforward as landforms to the four layers of the earth, the causes of earthquakes and volcano eruptions, and the effects of erosion. That's a whole lotta info for one test, I think. I actually wish I could take the test to see what I retained!
I'll probably revert back to the nervousness of my test-taking days and lose enough sleep for both us. Unless I stop for a minute and realize thoughts of shifting plates and fault lines would actually put me to sleep if I had to sit in a classroom and hear about them... Yeah, that's it. G'night.
Monday, October 20, 2008
The Birds and the Bees
We often find that our dear 10-year-old is more apt to share parts of his day with his babysitter than his parents. By the time we pick him up and ask what he did that day, we usually get the "nothing" response.
Today when I picked him up, the babysitter and her husband said, "Oh Carter was just telling us he learned about the birds and bees on Friday."
Quite surprised, I exclaimed, "You did?! Why didn't you tell me?"
He replies, "Because you already know (about that subject)."
That's not what I meant. What I meant was ... well you know what I meant.
So then they say he was talking about his girlfriend. Really in the dark now, I ask, "Your girlfriend?"
He says, "You know. From Kidz Camp."
A lightbulb turned on. I turn to the babysitter and say, "Did Carter mention this 'girlfriend' is in college?"
Oh that got a response. I was not liking the direction this conversation was going -- birds and the bees, a college girlfriend -- but I was not going to let up until I had some answers.
On the way home, I asked if this was a lesson in class or what. He said, no, he learned that in second grade. "My friend (anonymous) was just talking about it at lunch."
He was talking about it at lunch? "How does he know anything more than anyone else? Did his parents teach him?"
No, says Carter. "He probably learned in on YouTube."
Oh. My. God. I don't know how I managed to keep the car on the road -- what with my life flashing before my eyes and all.
I did tell Carter that if he ever had questions, he could ask Daddy or me. He just said he wondered what this had to do with birds and bees. Since my mommy mind was mush, I said maybe we'd have to look up the history of the phrase on the Internet -- but we are definitely steering clear of YouTube for that one. Just a hunch.
Must go breathe into a paper bag now...
Today when I picked him up, the babysitter and her husband said, "Oh Carter was just telling us he learned about the birds and bees on Friday."
Quite surprised, I exclaimed, "You did?! Why didn't you tell me?"
He replies, "Because you already know (about that subject)."
That's not what I meant. What I meant was ... well you know what I meant.
So then they say he was talking about his girlfriend. Really in the dark now, I ask, "Your girlfriend?"
He says, "You know. From Kidz Camp."
A lightbulb turned on. I turn to the babysitter and say, "Did Carter mention this 'girlfriend' is in college?"
Oh that got a response. I was not liking the direction this conversation was going -- birds and the bees, a college girlfriend -- but I was not going to let up until I had some answers.
On the way home, I asked if this was a lesson in class or what. He said, no, he learned that in second grade. "My friend (anonymous) was just talking about it at lunch."
He was talking about it at lunch? "How does he know anything more than anyone else? Did his parents teach him?"
No, says Carter. "He probably learned in on YouTube."
Oh. My. God. I don't know how I managed to keep the car on the road -- what with my life flashing before my eyes and all.
I did tell Carter that if he ever had questions, he could ask Daddy or me. He just said he wondered what this had to do with birds and bees. Since my mommy mind was mush, I said maybe we'd have to look up the history of the phrase on the Internet -- but we are definitely steering clear of YouTube for that one. Just a hunch.
Must go breathe into a paper bag now...
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Murphy's Law & Order
Murphy's law is an adage in Western culture that
broadly states, "if anything can go wrong, it will."
I was just plain exhausted by the time I went to bed last night after two nights in a row of limited sleep. I sat in the hot tub a bit before bedtime and it must have really relaxed me. I slept long and hard. The problem was the "long" part.
When I went to bed I did not set my alarm. I knew I was not going to be a hero and get up for 8 o'clock church. So I figured I'd just get up for Sunday School, which starts at 9:10 a.m. I'm always awake around 8 on the weekends anyway.
Murphy's Law strikes!
It never fails that the one time I don't set my alarm on Sunday morning I actually sleep in until 8:40 -- giving me 15 minutes to shower, dress and get out the door. Carter had been awake since 7:30 but never came to wake me up. I can't blame him just because he sneaks in our room and begs me to make cinnamon rolls just about every other weekend.
So I made a decision that in order to get out of the house on time, I'd skip the coffee and cereal. I would just shower, throw some sweats on, drop him off at Sunday School, then get some quick grocery shopping done at Wal-Mart.
Murphy's Law strikes again!
It never fails that I can go for weeks without seeing anyone I know in my twice-weekly (or more) sojourns to the supercenter, but the one morning I have wet, flat hair, no makeup and am wearing lovely, figure flattering sweats, I run into 4 people I know!
When we got home, I pretty much stayed close to home. I was afraid of what would happen next! We did get to watch the Vikings on TV. I don't think they lost because of Murphy's Law ... unless it's because I washed my game-day lounge pants!
I knew I should have done that in the off-season! Dang that Murphy...
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Portion Control
Although my "boys" are big fans of those all-you-can-eat buffets, I find them challenging. Can you really just take one plate and be satisfied? How can you not sample just about everything -- including that soft serve ice cream (even though there is nothing special about it)?
I've learned through my various weight-loss endeavours that it takes about 20 minutes for the brain to get the signal from the tummy that it is full. That's why, when we don't "rest" after that first plate, we are painfully full later when it all catches up to the gray matter.
If we learned to slow down, take a breather and maybe even control our portions, we could avoid that pain. That feeling of being overwhelmingly full.
I get those feelings in real life, too.
I'm a "yes man." I don't say no to second helpings and before you know it, my plate is full and I am feeling overwhelmingly full. Or usually, just overwhelmed. And emotionally, it is painful. It's stressful.
After some gut-busting buffets, I have learned my lesson and am getting better. But once in awhile a request catches me off-guard and I find myself saying yes before my brain can acknowledge I am already "full."
Today, for example, I found myself driving up to a conference in Rhinelander because, at the last minute, they needed someone to go who has gone before and could escort two others who were unable to drive. Although I had several thoughts throughout the day of "I wish I were home with Jim and Carter," I realized I had a purpose for being there. And, despite the fact I was gone from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., I was glad I went. I saw some old friends and learned a few things.
The most valuable lesson I took away occurred in the lunch line -- for a buffet coincidentally. The man in front of me was talking about when we take on too much. When our plate is full. I said, yep, I know all about that. My plate gets too full and too heavy, eventually I can't hold onto it and I drop it and it crashes. He said that used to happen to him, too, but then he had a talk with his Higher Power.
He said, "God asked me, 'You like having your plate full don't you?' And I said, 'Yes, it fulfills me to help others. But I end up taking on too much' And God replied, 'Then get a smaller plate!'"
What a good message. I can say no and tell people my plate is already full. They don't need to know the size of my plate. Plus, I have to keep a little space open for that ice cream.
I've learned through my various weight-loss endeavours that it takes about 20 minutes for the brain to get the signal from the tummy that it is full. That's why, when we don't "rest" after that first plate, we are painfully full later when it all catches up to the gray matter.
If we learned to slow down, take a breather and maybe even control our portions, we could avoid that pain. That feeling of being overwhelmingly full.
I get those feelings in real life, too.
I'm a "yes man." I don't say no to second helpings and before you know it, my plate is full and I am feeling overwhelmingly full. Or usually, just overwhelmed. And emotionally, it is painful. It's stressful.
After some gut-busting buffets, I have learned my lesson and am getting better. But once in awhile a request catches me off-guard and I find myself saying yes before my brain can acknowledge I am already "full."
Today, for example, I found myself driving up to a conference in Rhinelander because, at the last minute, they needed someone to go who has gone before and could escort two others who were unable to drive. Although I had several thoughts throughout the day of "I wish I were home with Jim and Carter," I realized I had a purpose for being there. And, despite the fact I was gone from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., I was glad I went. I saw some old friends and learned a few things.
The most valuable lesson I took away occurred in the lunch line -- for a buffet coincidentally. The man in front of me was talking about when we take on too much. When our plate is full. I said, yep, I know all about that. My plate gets too full and too heavy, eventually I can't hold onto it and I drop it and it crashes. He said that used to happen to him, too, but then he had a talk with his Higher Power.
He said, "God asked me, 'You like having your plate full don't you?' And I said, 'Yes, it fulfills me to help others. But I end up taking on too much' And God replied, 'Then get a smaller plate!'"
What a good message. I can say no and tell people my plate is already full. They don't need to know the size of my plate. Plus, I have to keep a little space open for that ice cream.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Robyn's Ramblings...
Some things I've learned this week:
Alarm Cat: Nothing jolts you awake quite like the sound of a screaming, hissing cat. When we found her at the front patio door at 5:45 a.m., she was face to face with the evil white barn cat that roams our neighborhood and decided to taunt her from the other side of the glass. Thankfully, it didn't awaken Carter, who (in protection of his princess kitty) has already declared on several occasions, "I wish we could just kill that white cat!" We try to tell him that as long as those two cats are on opposite sides of the glass, Sylvester should be OK. Just can't let her escape again...
Frigid Physics: According to Professor Carter, even on a chilly evening, you should feel warm eating a bowl of ice cream under a blanket on the couch "because two negatives make a positive." I won't argue with anything that allows me to have ice cream year-round.
Campaign Crunch: With the election just a few weeks away, we are getting inundated with campaign commercials and phone calls. The other night, when I was checking voicemail, I deleted a message after realizing it was just a recorded message from Obama's camp. I didn't realize Carter was listening, too, but the next time we heard McCain's name on some ad, I heard Carter say, in his best booming yet deliberate radio voice: "John McCain just doesn't get it." (The old Campus Democrat in me is smiling.)
Hoarding Heredity: It's scary sometimes when we see what traits our children inherit. Yes, there is a clutter gene in my family. I'd like to think that we were "green" before it was trendy. We save things we think we'll use some day. But "some day" never comes. Last night I was trimming some paper for a project and I had Carter helping by throwing away the scraps as they came off the trimmer. When he realized there were several that were the same small rectangle size, he said, "Mom, we should save these for when we need to write names down and draw them from a hat." And just when would that be? Oh boy, what have I created?!
No Pain, No Gain: I admittedly am a huge chicken when it comes to anything with pain potential. Call this a banner week in Robyn Bravery. I had a flu shot yesterday and my first-ever (I'm 40 now) mammogram today. Yes, the Mammo-Mobile rolled into town and how could I not do it when the service is right there in our parking lot. Funniest thing heard: I'm standing there, posed for a picture and the technician says, "Hold still." Yeah, like I am going anywhere with a major part of my anatomy locked in a vise. Honestly, it wasn't that bad. Sort of like getting your blood pressure checked -- but they forgot to pull the release valve!
Alarm Cat: Nothing jolts you awake quite like the sound of a screaming, hissing cat. When we found her at the front patio door at 5:45 a.m., she was face to face with the evil white barn cat that roams our neighborhood and decided to taunt her from the other side of the glass. Thankfully, it didn't awaken Carter, who (in protection of his princess kitty) has already declared on several occasions, "I wish we could just kill that white cat!" We try to tell him that as long as those two cats are on opposite sides of the glass, Sylvester should be OK. Just can't let her escape again...
Frigid Physics: According to Professor Carter, even on a chilly evening, you should feel warm eating a bowl of ice cream under a blanket on the couch "because two negatives make a positive." I won't argue with anything that allows me to have ice cream year-round.
Campaign Crunch: With the election just a few weeks away, we are getting inundated with campaign commercials and phone calls. The other night, when I was checking voicemail, I deleted a message after realizing it was just a recorded message from Obama's camp. I didn't realize Carter was listening, too, but the next time we heard McCain's name on some ad, I heard Carter say, in his best booming yet deliberate radio voice: "John McCain just doesn't get it." (The old Campus Democrat in me is smiling.)
Hoarding Heredity: It's scary sometimes when we see what traits our children inherit. Yes, there is a clutter gene in my family. I'd like to think that we were "green" before it was trendy. We save things we think we'll use some day. But "some day" never comes. Last night I was trimming some paper for a project and I had Carter helping by throwing away the scraps as they came off the trimmer. When he realized there were several that were the same small rectangle size, he said, "Mom, we should save these for when we need to write names down and draw them from a hat." And just when would that be? Oh boy, what have I created?!
No Pain, No Gain: I admittedly am a huge chicken when it comes to anything with pain potential. Call this a banner week in Robyn Bravery. I had a flu shot yesterday and my first-ever (I'm 40 now) mammogram today. Yes, the Mammo-Mobile rolled into town and how could I not do it when the service is right there in our parking lot. Funniest thing heard: I'm standing there, posed for a picture and the technician says, "Hold still." Yeah, like I am going anywhere with a major part of my anatomy locked in a vise. Honestly, it wasn't that bad. Sort of like getting your blood pressure checked -- but they forgot to pull the release valve!
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Optical Delusion :: Part 2
Mirage: An optical illusion caused by atmospheric conditions;
something that appears real or possible but is not in fact so.
something that appears real or possible but is not in fact so.
Have you ever seen a mirage? Most of the time when we hear that word, the optical illusion that comes to mind is the "appearance" of a sheet of water in a desert or on a hot road. No matter what our common-sense brain tells us, we swear that water is there because that is what we see.
I believe we are surrounded by mirages every day. We see what we want to see no matter what our brain tells us.
For example, put yourself in this position. You are having a rotten, stressful morning at work. You pass by someone in the hall and they say, "Hey, how are ya?" And you, who are ready to strangle a co-worker with your phone cord or chuck your computer out the nearest window, respond with a smile, "I'm great, thanks. How about you?" They see we're fine and move on.
When we see someone is fine, but know differently, what do we do? Sometimes it's within our comfort zone to just believe what we see. I heard she's been having problems, but she says she's fine, so she must be.
I recently learned a loved one is suffering, really struggling. I did not know this. When I've asked this person how they are doing, they say "fine," and I let it go. I didn't delve deeper. Instead I stayed in my comfort zone of oblivion.
Can you force someone to give up their mirage? No. Maybe they are in their comfort zone, too, pretending something exists (peace, contentment, happiness) that doesn't. Maybe it is too painful to tell someone what is really happening. Then it becomes real. The shimmering water in the desert disappears and they are left with only dry, hot sand.
I do hope this person is willing to open up to me, let me help them, but I can't count on that. All I can do is pray for them. I guess you could call God the anti-mirage. We don't see Him, but we know He is here. And I have faith He will "show" himself soon to my friend.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Optical Delusion
Gas prices are dropping. And in Wisconsin Rapids, for a few hours, they were dirt cheap. By accident.
It's made the national news wires: On Monday, a gas station here accidentally programmed their gas to be 34.9 cents per gallon instead of $3.49. So a person gases up, realizes the mistake, calls a friend and they gas up, too.
The station owner estimated 30 to 40 customers fueled up at the incorrect price — between 200 and 300 gallons worth — for about 90 minutes. Did no one think that they should tell the manager? Apparently, when it comes to getting cheap gas, no one has a guilty conscience. We deserve it, right? I'm just glad that for the moment -- and I say moment because it could be changing as I type -- that the prices have dropped a bit.
When we saw yesterday that gas prices had dipped below $3 a gallon (for real), Carter says, "Man, they're giving it away!" I don't think he realizes Daddy is sarcastic when he says that!
How did we get brainwashed into thinking gas under $3 is a bargain? It doesn't seem that long ago when gas was sitting at $2.25 and hubby and I (who commute 45 mile to work) said, "If gas ever gets close to $3, we better consider moving or getting new jobs." Then, bam! We're suddenly inching our way to $4.
I feel like this old-timer talking about gas under $2 in the good ol' days. Of course, after getting my dreadful 401K statement in the mail yesterday, I will be an old-timer -- very old -- before I can retire! Sheesh! Things sure were different back in the day...
It's made the national news wires: On Monday, a gas station here accidentally programmed their gas to be 34.9 cents per gallon instead of $3.49. So a person gases up, realizes the mistake, calls a friend and they gas up, too.
The station owner estimated 30 to 40 customers fueled up at the incorrect price — between 200 and 300 gallons worth — for about 90 minutes. Did no one think that they should tell the manager? Apparently, when it comes to getting cheap gas, no one has a guilty conscience. We deserve it, right? I'm just glad that for the moment -- and I say moment because it could be changing as I type -- that the prices have dropped a bit.
When we saw yesterday that gas prices had dipped below $3 a gallon (for real), Carter says, "Man, they're giving it away!" I don't think he realizes Daddy is sarcastic when he says that!
How did we get brainwashed into thinking gas under $3 is a bargain? It doesn't seem that long ago when gas was sitting at $2.25 and hubby and I (who commute 45 mile to work) said, "If gas ever gets close to $3, we better consider moving or getting new jobs." Then, bam! We're suddenly inching our way to $4.
I feel like this old-timer talking about gas under $2 in the good ol' days. Of course, after getting my dreadful 401K statement in the mail yesterday, I will be an old-timer -- very old -- before I can retire! Sheesh! Things sure were different back in the day...
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Discovery Channels
We observed Columbus Day yesterday. Not really observed I guess. We opened the mailbox, saw it was empty and said, "Ahh, that's right. It's Columbus Day."
Last night I was helping Carter with social studies and we were reading about Columbus, Leif Eriksson and the Vikings, all living in a time when the Americas were still an "unknown land." We weren't even on the map! Europeans, fearing sea monsters and such (I swear this was in the reading), were too afraid to go beyond their borders and explore. Thank goodness someone finally did.
A few days ago, we learned that the company I work for is "restructuring" -- you know, realigning businesses within the business so they make sense, etc. In a word, this means: CHANGE. Again. I remarked to my boss (perhaps with a note of sarcasm) that it figures I have had the same job for almost a year now so it must be time for a change!
Obviously, to be successful these days, we as a company have to keep evolving to respond to the marketplace, to consumer needs and demands, to the economy. For me, though, it means I am once again in an "unknown land," bordered by the countries of Anxiety, Uncertainty and Excitement. Will I let my fears get the best of me like the Europeans in the 15th century? Or will I find that Viking deep inside (I know in my purple and yellow heart, there's one there) and go exploring this unknown land?
Who knows -- I may discover I want to live there! As is often the case, once I get past the initial trepidation, I survive the transition, embrace the change and wonder how I ever did things any other way. Let's hope this new voyage follows a similar path.
Last night I was helping Carter with social studies and we were reading about Columbus, Leif Eriksson and the Vikings, all living in a time when the Americas were still an "unknown land." We weren't even on the map! Europeans, fearing sea monsters and such (I swear this was in the reading), were too afraid to go beyond their borders and explore. Thank goodness someone finally did.
A few days ago, we learned that the company I work for is "restructuring" -- you know, realigning businesses within the business so they make sense, etc. In a word, this means: CHANGE. Again. I remarked to my boss (perhaps with a note of sarcasm) that it figures I have had the same job for almost a year now so it must be time for a change!
Obviously, to be successful these days, we as a company have to keep evolving to respond to the marketplace, to consumer needs and demands, to the economy. For me, though, it means I am once again in an "unknown land," bordered by the countries of Anxiety, Uncertainty and Excitement. Will I let my fears get the best of me like the Europeans in the 15th century? Or will I find that Viking deep inside (I know in my purple and yellow heart, there's one there) and go exploring this unknown land?
Who knows -- I may discover I want to live there! As is often the case, once I get past the initial trepidation, I survive the transition, embrace the change and wonder how I ever did things any other way. Let's hope this new voyage follows a similar path.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Indian Summer Scrapbook
Some weekend photos as promised...
David vs. Goliath?
You know the old saying "The camera adds 10 pounds"... Well from this weird camera angle, it looks like J.Bucki here could take out my baby in one shove!David vs. Goliath?
Fall Foto OpOK, Scrapbooking Mom took over and made Carter stand on a stool so this beautiful tree in our yard could be the background. There's no hope for me, is there?
Bridge to NowhereOur walk around Lake Wazeecha offered a few photo opportunities. The fall colors were mixed in with a lot of pine trees. A LOT of pine trees!
Cattail HourSaw the cattails and was trying something creative. I'll have to try that again.
Fantastic FinishComing around the last curve of the lake, where it extends from a dam into a creek, we were finally greeted with some decent color. But who am I to judge God's handiwork? It was a picture-perfect weekend all around!
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Fantastic Finish
I just heard the ESPN announcer comment on a day of "fantastic finishes." There were 5 NFL games today decided in the last 10 seconds.
That includes a game-winning field goal to give the Vikings their 12-10 win over the lowly Lions. Weird game. Some pathetic performances. But we'll take the W. There is now a three-way tie in the "Norse" Division. Now the fun starts!
Today was also a fantastic finish to the weekend (and Indian Summer). Temps reached 80 at least and it was sunny for the most part. Ahhhh.
After church and Sunday School, my friend Molly and I met at the lake (not to go swimming, don't worry). There is a paved path around the lake (about 4.25 miles) so we had a nice long walk and talk. I also brought the camera and will post some pictures Monday. We had a nice visit and we were both happy to fit an hour of exercise into our day of rest!
I did find time this afternoon, too, to give that deck chair some attention. If the colorful leaves hadn't been blowing off the trees, I would have thought it was just another summer day.
... Until I looked down at my legs and saw my summer tan has officially paled into oblivion. There's a reality check. (And you'll be relieved to hear I will not be posting pictures of that on Monday!)... That's more of a fantastic fade than finish.
That includes a game-winning field goal to give the Vikings their 12-10 win over the lowly Lions. Weird game. Some pathetic performances. But we'll take the W. There is now a three-way tie in the "Norse" Division. Now the fun starts!
Today was also a fantastic finish to the weekend (and Indian Summer). Temps reached 80 at least and it was sunny for the most part. Ahhhh.
After church and Sunday School, my friend Molly and I met at the lake (not to go swimming, don't worry). There is a paved path around the lake (about 4.25 miles) so we had a nice long walk and talk. I also brought the camera and will post some pictures Monday. We had a nice visit and we were both happy to fit an hour of exercise into our day of rest!
I did find time this afternoon, too, to give that deck chair some attention. If the colorful leaves hadn't been blowing off the trees, I would have thought it was just another summer day.
... Until I looked down at my legs and saw my summer tan has officially paled into oblivion. There's a reality check. (And you'll be relieved to hear I will not be posting pictures of that on Monday!)... That's more of a fantastic fade than finish.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Indian Summer
They call autumn days like these Indian Summer. After a stretch of chilly or cloudy or rainy days, we suddenly get sunny skies and 70-some degrees. I love it!
Yesterday, since Carter didn't have school, I took the day off, too. Naturally, we had to go golfing one last time -- just in case the mild streak doesn't last too long. We had a good time. There is one major challenge, though, with golfing at this time of year. With all the leaves, pine needles, etc., that have fallen to the ground, it is nearly impossible to find your ball if it veers off the fairway. Carter lost 5 of his but we did find 2 in the course of our game so he's not out much.
He had some good shots but now it will likely be nearly 6 months before he picks up a club again so it will be like starting over (for me, too). We'll take that challenge!
Today was even more beautiful -- about 75 and sunny. Carter had his last football game against Medford. We won 32-8. Yay! I was so glad to end the season on a win. His team needed that. Carter needed that, too. Maybe now he'll be more inclined to do Raptors again next year. He should be one of the big kids then, right? (I'll have to post some pictures when I get to a different computer. There's a unique one of a big kid Carter was up against today.)
After football we came home and enjoyed the sunshine. Well I did anyway. I sat on the deck and read while Daddy raked and Carter mowed. There just wasn't enough yard work to go around (yeah right).
I wanted to take one more walk after supper but even though it seemed like summer, it was still dark at 6:30. That part I don't like because I feel like it should be almost bedtime now and it's only 7:30!
Tomorrow's forecast calls for another warm day. Temps are supposed to be mid-70s or higher again. Guess I'll keep those lawn chairs out for just a bit longer!
Yesterday, since Carter didn't have school, I took the day off, too. Naturally, we had to go golfing one last time -- just in case the mild streak doesn't last too long. We had a good time. There is one major challenge, though, with golfing at this time of year. With all the leaves, pine needles, etc., that have fallen to the ground, it is nearly impossible to find your ball if it veers off the fairway. Carter lost 5 of his but we did find 2 in the course of our game so he's not out much.
He had some good shots but now it will likely be nearly 6 months before he picks up a club again so it will be like starting over (for me, too). We'll take that challenge!
Today was even more beautiful -- about 75 and sunny. Carter had his last football game against Medford. We won 32-8. Yay! I was so glad to end the season on a win. His team needed that. Carter needed that, too. Maybe now he'll be more inclined to do Raptors again next year. He should be one of the big kids then, right? (I'll have to post some pictures when I get to a different computer. There's a unique one of a big kid Carter was up against today.)
After football we came home and enjoyed the sunshine. Well I did anyway. I sat on the deck and read while Daddy raked and Carter mowed. There just wasn't enough yard work to go around (yeah right).
I wanted to take one more walk after supper but even though it seemed like summer, it was still dark at 6:30. That part I don't like because I feel like it should be almost bedtime now and it's only 7:30!
Tomorrow's forecast calls for another warm day. Temps are supposed to be mid-70s or higher again. Guess I'll keep those lawn chairs out for just a bit longer!
Friday, October 10, 2008
Here Comes the Flood
Watched an interesting Grey's Anatomy last night. In this episode, a pipe had burst in the hospital and leaks were starting to spring everywhere. The chief of surgery did not want the technicians/plumbers to shut the water off (to quickly fix the break) because he still wanted to be able to perform surgeries rather than send patients to a competitor hospital.
As a result, water started building up and eventually flooded the surgical floor and broke through a ceiling in one of the operating rooms. It was a catastrophe that could have been prevented if the chief had been willing to take the time to address it early on.
How many times do we let this happen in our own lives? We ignore a little problem until it grows to a size that is too overwhelming to deal with. We procrastinate on a project until we have to burn the candle at both ends to get it done. We keep talking the talk about getting healthy and we step on the scale one morning and exclaim, "How did I gain 20 pounds overnight?"
We all have our leaks that are gradually growing into floods. I for one hate that feeling of being so overwhelmed that I don't know where to start! Think about standing in your floodwaters. You'd have to look around and decide quickly what needs to be done first, right?
In my case -- in my "cluttered house" flood -- doing the dishes and the laundry comes first. When I get time, I'll dust and vacuum and somewhere down the list of priorities will come organizing my closet and tackling the cobwebs in the ceiling corners.
In my "I keep trying to lose weight but it keeps finding me" flood, I need to keep taking baby steps. Keep making healthy choices and trying to exercise when I can. I also need to remind myself that I haven't gained a pound in 2008. I haven't lost one, either, but I have stopped the floodwaters from rising anyway.
Every time we address a little leak, we are one step closer to saving our sanity. And hopefully stemming the need to build an ark!
As a result, water started building up and eventually flooded the surgical floor and broke through a ceiling in one of the operating rooms. It was a catastrophe that could have been prevented if the chief had been willing to take the time to address it early on.
How many times do we let this happen in our own lives? We ignore a little problem until it grows to a size that is too overwhelming to deal with. We procrastinate on a project until we have to burn the candle at both ends to get it done. We keep talking the talk about getting healthy and we step on the scale one morning and exclaim, "How did I gain 20 pounds overnight?"
We all have our leaks that are gradually growing into floods. I for one hate that feeling of being so overwhelmed that I don't know where to start! Think about standing in your floodwaters. You'd have to look around and decide quickly what needs to be done first, right?
In my case -- in my "cluttered house" flood -- doing the dishes and the laundry comes first. When I get time, I'll dust and vacuum and somewhere down the list of priorities will come organizing my closet and tackling the cobwebs in the ceiling corners.
In my "I keep trying to lose weight but it keeps finding me" flood, I need to keep taking baby steps. Keep making healthy choices and trying to exercise when I can. I also need to remind myself that I haven't gained a pound in 2008. I haven't lost one, either, but I have stopped the floodwaters from rising anyway.
Every time we address a little leak, we are one step closer to saving our sanity. And hopefully stemming the need to build an ark!
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Spam Filters
Our e-mail spam filter at work has been off-kilter for about a week. So every day my inbox is flooded with dozens and dozens of interesting offers to work at home, buy replica watches or Viagra, and increase the size of various body parts (some I don't even have). I didn’t realize how much the filter was shielding me from!
In a sense, we as parents are “spam filters” for our children. We protect them whenever and however we can. We don’t want them exposed to the harsh realities of the “real world” before they need to be. We don’t want to see them hurt.
This week Carter brought home some handouts from a police officer who had visited their class to talk about Internet safety. I asked him what he learned. “We talked about not sharing personal information so I might have to change my user name,” he said, referring to his e-mail. “We have to be careful with pop-ups (windows) too. We should tell our parents about them, especially if they are pornography.”
Stunned, I asked, “Do you even know what pornography is?”
“I do now,” he replied.
Sad that a 10-year-old needs to know that for his own protection. Apparently I need to upgrade my Parental Spam Filter package. My outdated version isn’t prepared for this type of world just yet. Is yours?
In a sense, we as parents are “spam filters” for our children. We protect them whenever and however we can. We don’t want them exposed to the harsh realities of the “real world” before they need to be. We don’t want to see them hurt.
This week Carter brought home some handouts from a police officer who had visited their class to talk about Internet safety. I asked him what he learned. “We talked about not sharing personal information so I might have to change my user name,” he said, referring to his e-mail. “We have to be careful with pop-ups (windows) too. We should tell our parents about them, especially if they are pornography.”
Stunned, I asked, “Do you even know what pornography is?”
“I do now,” he replied.
Sad that a 10-year-old needs to know that for his own protection. Apparently I need to upgrade my Parental Spam Filter package. My outdated version isn’t prepared for this type of world just yet. Is yours?
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Shift Happens
Hubby and I spent several hours this afternoon in management training. One of the interesting parts of the presentation was a video called "Shift Happens." It's about how life changes. The world changes. Our prospective employees aren't like they used to be. Things "shift."
You can find it on YouTube. There are so many versions of it, you can pick any one and get the general idea. Without spoiling too much of the contents...
Among other things, it talks about how quickly technology changes now compared to how many years, decades, centuries it previously took for advancements. On the job front, sitting in a room where Jim and I had the least tenure with just 5 years at the company, it noted that students today will end up having 10-14 jobs... by the time they are 38! Kids Carter's age are being prepared for jobs that don't even exist yet and for technologies that don't yet exist.
As I explained this to Carter, people just started using the Internet in 1995. When he was born a few years later, things like iPods and text messages and blogs (there's one born every minute) didn't even exist. His jaw dropped. I told him I can't even imagine how far things will advance before he graduates from high school!
I think it's starting already. Tonight, for example, I was unable to help him with his math assignment. That's humbling for someone who was once a top student, I tell ya. When it came to his writing assignment, though, I was all over it! Now we're in my comfort zone. Judging from what I learned today, though, that won't last long.
Shift happens.
You can find it on YouTube. There are so many versions of it, you can pick any one and get the general idea. Without spoiling too much of the contents...
Among other things, it talks about how quickly technology changes now compared to how many years, decades, centuries it previously took for advancements. On the job front, sitting in a room where Jim and I had the least tenure with just 5 years at the company, it noted that students today will end up having 10-14 jobs... by the time they are 38! Kids Carter's age are being prepared for jobs that don't even exist yet and for technologies that don't yet exist.
As I explained this to Carter, people just started using the Internet in 1995. When he was born a few years later, things like iPods and text messages and blogs (there's one born every minute) didn't even exist. His jaw dropped. I told him I can't even imagine how far things will advance before he graduates from high school!
I think it's starting already. Tonight, for example, I was unable to help him with his math assignment. That's humbling for someone who was once a top student, I tell ya. When it came to his writing assignment, though, I was all over it! Now we're in my comfort zone. Judging from what I learned today, though, that won't last long.
Shift happens.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Game Night
Between our Vikings and Carter's classmates, we saw some pretty good games last night!
Let's start with those fun fifth-graders. All of the parents of fifth-graders at Grant were invited to a meeting disguised as a volleyball game. First, we listened to the three teachers explain their teaching philosophy, rules on homework, how the letter grade system works, etc. Then we got to the fun.
Sitting there in the lunchroom and seeing all the kids and parents, I was wondering how we were going to set up the game, sub people in, etc. Turns out, it wasn't that complicated. They had all the kids on one side of the net and all the parents on the other. All of them! That's like at least 50 on a side! Then we played with a beach ball and there were very few rules. You could hit as many times as you wanted. There were no boundaries. Just don't let it touch the floor on your side or the other team gets a point.
I was standing right in the middle on our side, visiting with one of the other moms, and the ball never came near me. (I'm so glad I bothered with tennis shoes and a sports bra. Thank god I didn't bring my kneepads.) After calling the kids-parents duel a tie, they had all the "boys" versus all the "girls." I am sure we lost by a ton but the male teacher wisely said the girls won no matter what. Smart guy.
We got home in time for a quick supper and then Monday Night Football :: Saints hosting the Vikings.
We told Carter he could stay up until halftime and that's it. Honestly, the game went past my bedtime, too! At some point in the third or fourth quarter I fell asleep on the couch for a little bit. But then stayed up for the rest of the fourth quarter. It was worth it! All the work and tension just to go 2-3! Crazy, isn't it?
I am dragging a bit today but smiling. And relieved that Carter broke the curse. Just because his team lost on Saturday, doesn't mean the Vikings did, too. This weekend, though, I'd rather they both win!
Let's start with those fun fifth-graders. All of the parents of fifth-graders at Grant were invited to a meeting disguised as a volleyball game. First, we listened to the three teachers explain their teaching philosophy, rules on homework, how the letter grade system works, etc. Then we got to the fun.
Sitting there in the lunchroom and seeing all the kids and parents, I was wondering how we were going to set up the game, sub people in, etc. Turns out, it wasn't that complicated. They had all the kids on one side of the net and all the parents on the other. All of them! That's like at least 50 on a side! Then we played with a beach ball and there were very few rules. You could hit as many times as you wanted. There were no boundaries. Just don't let it touch the floor on your side or the other team gets a point.
I was standing right in the middle on our side, visiting with one of the other moms, and the ball never came near me. (I'm so glad I bothered with tennis shoes and a sports bra. Thank god I didn't bring my kneepads.) After calling the kids-parents duel a tie, they had all the "boys" versus all the "girls." I am sure we lost by a ton but the male teacher wisely said the girls won no matter what. Smart guy.
We got home in time for a quick supper and then Monday Night Football :: Saints hosting the Vikings.
We told Carter he could stay up until halftime and that's it. Honestly, the game went past my bedtime, too! At some point in the third or fourth quarter I fell asleep on the couch for a little bit. But then stayed up for the rest of the fourth quarter. It was worth it! All the work and tension just to go 2-3! Crazy, isn't it?
I am dragging a bit today but smiling. And relieved that Carter broke the curse. Just because his team lost on Saturday, doesn't mean the Vikings did, too. This weekend, though, I'd rather they both win!
Monday, October 6, 2008
Great Expectations :: Part 2
I'm expecting a pretty solemn day at work today. Not many people have anything to cheer about. Locally, the Iola-Scandinavia football team got their butts kicked in homecoming this weekend. Then there was the Badgers loss, the Packers loss, the Brewers loss...
Maybe it's a good thing my Vikes don't play until tonight. Though I do not have any unrealistic expectations we're going to run away with a win or anything. We don't always expect a win, or expect things to go well, but we certainly hope for it!
Speaking of expectations... It wasn't that long ago I was talking about having realistic expectations -- not lowering your standards, but being reasonable. I got thinking of this again because my mother is having a party tonight. One of those in-home parties where you invite the ladies and make a dessert for them to enjoy after some product demonstration. You know the drill. In this case, it's Tastefully Simple (one of my sisters is a consultant).
Mom was fretting last week about how she was going to fit everyone in her house. "How many people did you invite?" I asked. "I don't know," she said. Hmmm. She knows. My mom knows exact numbers on things, believe me. But I played dumb and explained the law of averages of home parties to her. Usually about a quarter to a third of the people show up. That's why coordinators want you to invite 30 people because they hope 6-10 show up (or more, of course). Mom is having an "open house" format anyway so not all the people will be there at the same time. I also reminded her people are busy -- they may want to come but they may have something else going on. Plus, this is't a once-in-a-lifetime event like a anniversary or birthday party.
I have since found out from my sister that Mom invited 80 people. 80! I told her she better get ahold of that list. We'll need it in a few years for Mom's 80th birthday party!
I hope she does have a wonderful turnout, but keeps some realistic expectations in the back of her head. Just like I hope for a great game tonight but am not expecting one.
Not that I know anything, mind you. I'm just a kid.
Maybe it's a good thing my Vikes don't play until tonight. Though I do not have any unrealistic expectations we're going to run away with a win or anything. We don't always expect a win, or expect things to go well, but we certainly hope for it!
Speaking of expectations... It wasn't that long ago I was talking about having realistic expectations -- not lowering your standards, but being reasonable. I got thinking of this again because my mother is having a party tonight. One of those in-home parties where you invite the ladies and make a dessert for them to enjoy after some product demonstration. You know the drill. In this case, it's Tastefully Simple (one of my sisters is a consultant).
Mom was fretting last week about how she was going to fit everyone in her house. "How many people did you invite?" I asked. "I don't know," she said. Hmmm. She knows. My mom knows exact numbers on things, believe me. But I played dumb and explained the law of averages of home parties to her. Usually about a quarter to a third of the people show up. That's why coordinators want you to invite 30 people because they hope 6-10 show up (or more, of course). Mom is having an "open house" format anyway so not all the people will be there at the same time. I also reminded her people are busy -- they may want to come but they may have something else going on. Plus, this is't a once-in-a-lifetime event like a anniversary or birthday party.
I have since found out from my sister that Mom invited 80 people. 80! I told her she better get ahold of that list. We'll need it in a few years for Mom's 80th birthday party!
I hope she does have a wonderful turnout, but keeps some realistic expectations in the back of her head. Just like I hope for a great game tonight but am not expecting one.
Not that I know anything, mind you. I'm just a kid.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Baseball Fever Flashback
Baseball fever is heating up now that the first round of the playoffs are mostly done (sorry, Brewers). I was living in my glory days, too, watching my Twins World Series DVD.
What a trip down memory lane! Carter watched it with me so I dug out my Homer Hankies to show him what everyone was waving. I also had to explain a little bit about fashion -- and explaining '80s fashion (can we call it fashion?) is much more difficult than explaining the rules of baseball, trust me. I immediately noted the plethora of acid-washed jeans and he noticed all the guys had mustaches. I said, "Daddy used to have a mustache like that!" I promised I'd dig up a picture for him.
Watching the games was like an immediate flashback for me. The '87 series was especially exciting because I was able to go to several games at the Dome that summer and knew every player on the team. I was in my sophomore year in college that fall and ended up watching all the games with another girl on our wing who was a big fan. When Hrbek hit the grand slam, I said to Carter, "We were screaming when this happened!" It was cool to relive that.
In the '91 series against the Braves, I was living on my own on the east side of Wisconsin (far away from Minnesota) with a crappy little TV and not a Twins fan in sight. I did have some fun ribbing my sister and brother-in-law who were living outside Atlanta at the time. What could be more fun than that?
Earlier this summer, Carter got to watch a DVD of the Reds World Series (a Father's Day gift for Jim). I reminded him tonight that being a fan can be pretty cool. Maybe our teams have only made it to the big game a few times in our lifetimes, but it's such a treat when they do! And I have every confidence I'll get to wave my Homer Hanky again some day....
What a trip down memory lane! Carter watched it with me so I dug out my Homer Hankies to show him what everyone was waving. I also had to explain a little bit about fashion -- and explaining '80s fashion (can we call it fashion?) is much more difficult than explaining the rules of baseball, trust me. I immediately noted the plethora of acid-washed jeans and he noticed all the guys had mustaches. I said, "Daddy used to have a mustache like that!" I promised I'd dig up a picture for him.
Watching the games was like an immediate flashback for me. The '87 series was especially exciting because I was able to go to several games at the Dome that summer and knew every player on the team. I was in my sophomore year in college that fall and ended up watching all the games with another girl on our wing who was a big fan. When Hrbek hit the grand slam, I said to Carter, "We were screaming when this happened!" It was cool to relive that.
In the '91 series against the Braves, I was living on my own on the east side of Wisconsin (far away from Minnesota) with a crappy little TV and not a Twins fan in sight. I did have some fun ribbing my sister and brother-in-law who were living outside Atlanta at the time. What could be more fun than that?
Earlier this summer, Carter got to watch a DVD of the Reds World Series (a Father's Day gift for Jim). I reminded him tonight that being a fan can be pretty cool. Maybe our teams have only made it to the big game a few times in our lifetimes, but it's such a treat when they do! And I have every confidence I'll get to wave my Homer Hanky again some day....
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Nail Biter
Before today, I thought getting skunked in a football game was the worst way to lose. Now I realize that coming from behind, then blowing the lead is a much more painful way to earn a loss.
The Rapids Raptors took a roadtrip to Auburndale today, playing under clear skies with the temperature hovering nicely around 60 degrees. Nice day for a good football game.
The Auburndale team was the first to score and, early on, it looked like they could run away with it. At one point the score was 22-8. We got inspired and ended up coming back again and again. With just 3 minutes left in the game, we'd actually captured the lead -- 24-22.
The kids were pumped on the field. The parents were pumped in the stands. We were so proud of our boys! So amazed with the comeback. But it wasn't over yet. We know from watching any sport with a clock that 3 minutes is a long time. Anything can happen.
And it did. Auburndale scored again and we ended up getting the ball back with a minute 12 seconds left. We tried some tricky plays but just couldn't score. We lost 30-24. Tough, tough loss.
What I hope is that our guys realize they can score and do well when they work together and when they want it. They were bummed, yes, but I think Carter's over it. His main concern is that when his team wins, the Vikings win. When his team loses, the Vikings lose. Yep, his record is 1-4 and Vikings are sitting at 1-3. We'll see Monday night how much "power" Carter's Raptors have!
The Rapids Raptors took a roadtrip to Auburndale today, playing under clear skies with the temperature hovering nicely around 60 degrees. Nice day for a good football game.
The Auburndale team was the first to score and, early on, it looked like they could run away with it. At one point the score was 22-8. We got inspired and ended up coming back again and again. With just 3 minutes left in the game, we'd actually captured the lead -- 24-22.
The kids were pumped on the field. The parents were pumped in the stands. We were so proud of our boys! So amazed with the comeback. But it wasn't over yet. We know from watching any sport with a clock that 3 minutes is a long time. Anything can happen.
And it did. Auburndale scored again and we ended up getting the ball back with a minute 12 seconds left. We tried some tricky plays but just couldn't score. We lost 30-24. Tough, tough loss.
What I hope is that our guys realize they can score and do well when they work together and when they want it. They were bummed, yes, but I think Carter's over it. His main concern is that when his team wins, the Vikings win. When his team loses, the Vikings lose. Yep, his record is 1-4 and Vikings are sitting at 1-3. We'll see Monday night how much "power" Carter's Raptors have!
Friday, October 3, 2008
Veggie Tales
When I saw my box from Amazon.com had arrived in the mail, I gave myself permission to veg out tonight.
It was a darn busy week. With Jim out of town, I did all the running, plus there was homework and my work project that got me up and to work each morning before the crack of dawn. I finished that nearly month-long project about 5 minutes before I was scheduled to leave work today. Hallelujah! But I am beat.
Back in September, I pre-ordered the movie Iron Man, which both Carter and I enjoyed in the theater. (He and I really like our super-hero movies, I guess!) So I knew that would arrive this week. Today, just in time for a Friday night veg-out session, it came!
I told Carter to give me an hour to sweep, dust and vacuum so that would be done for the weekend. Then I put a little pizza in the oven and we watched our movie.
Of course, ADD me couldn't just relax and watch it and actually veg. I thought I better tackle that 3-foot-high stack of magazines in the living room. So I sorted into piles of Recycle, Place in Fitness Center at Work, Scrapbooking, Keep for Carter (National Geographic) and Read b/4 Recycling.
After Carter went to bed, I did veg on the couch for about an hour, realizing why I rarely do that. Couple hundred channels and there wasn't anything on I wanted to watch!
The other thing I got in my Amazon box was a DVD of Twins highlights from their World Series wins in 1987 and 1991. That's more than 2 hours long so I didn't want to start that so late. I am looking forward to watching it this weekend though so I can pretend my guys are still playing in October!
It was a darn busy week. With Jim out of town, I did all the running, plus there was homework and my work project that got me up and to work each morning before the crack of dawn. I finished that nearly month-long project about 5 minutes before I was scheduled to leave work today. Hallelujah! But I am beat.
Back in September, I pre-ordered the movie Iron Man, which both Carter and I enjoyed in the theater. (He and I really like our super-hero movies, I guess!) So I knew that would arrive this week. Today, just in time for a Friday night veg-out session, it came!
I told Carter to give me an hour to sweep, dust and vacuum so that would be done for the weekend. Then I put a little pizza in the oven and we watched our movie.
Of course, ADD me couldn't just relax and watch it and actually veg. I thought I better tackle that 3-foot-high stack of magazines in the living room. So I sorted into piles of Recycle, Place in Fitness Center at Work, Scrapbooking, Keep for Carter (National Geographic) and Read b/4 Recycling.
After Carter went to bed, I did veg on the couch for about an hour, realizing why I rarely do that. Couple hundred channels and there wasn't anything on I wanted to watch!
The other thing I got in my Amazon box was a DVD of Twins highlights from their World Series wins in 1987 and 1991. That's more than 2 hours long so I didn't want to start that so late. I am looking forward to watching it this weekend though so I can pretend my guys are still playing in October!
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Mixed Fall-ings
Cool Wind
Drizzling Rain
Frost Advisory
Goodbye, Shorts
Dark Morning Commute
Chilly Football Practice
I hate fall!
Football
Brisk Walks
Falling Leaves
Hello, Sweaters
Pumpkins in Fields
Red, Orange, Yellow, Purple
I love fall!
Drizzling Rain
Frost Advisory
Goodbye, Shorts
Dark Morning Commute
Chilly Football Practice
I hate fall!
Football
Brisk Walks
Falling Leaves
Hello, Sweaters
Pumpkins in Fields
Red, Orange, Yellow, Purple
I love fall!
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Finish Strong
As my memory rests
But never forgets what I lost
Wake me up when September ends
But never forgets what I lost
Wake me up when September ends
-- Green Day ("Wake Me Up When September Ends")
I'm glad September is over. It's not like everything about the month was bad. It just ended on a rough note (insert *sigh* here). And I'm ready to move on.
I let Carter "I'm a Sox fan 'cause Griffey's on the team" stay up past bedtime last night to watch the Twins-White Sox game. At least one of us went to bed happy. He says, "Mom, now you can cheer for the White Sox in the playoffs." I said, "No way. That would be like cheering for the Packers. I'll be happy to support the Brewers, though."
Beyond sports, Carter and I have a new goal for October. We've got to get this reading thing down. Because he raced through his book this weekend and Monday night, he didn't retain a lot of the facts in the story. So, needless to say, he didn't do well on his test yesterday. I mean really not well. And then, when I found it was multiple choice, I said, "We've got a problem here. We've got to do something different going forward."
We talked about a game plan for getting the reading done at a realistic pace -- and without distractions -- so he can absorb the information. We're only one month into the school year, so there is still plenty of time to make up for the first two reading tests.
New month, new attitude, right?
I spent much of September on a big project for work that must be off my desk by the end of this week. It will be such a relief to be done and going back to my regular job duties ... if I can recall what they are!
In our work world, October also marks the start of the fourth quarter, where we have to make up for lost revenue, failed initiatives and the like from the first three quarters of the year. So the challenge sits before us to finish strong -- make it an overall successful year we are proud to put on the record books.
Does this mean it's not too late to do this in our personal lives, too? I don't see why not. We can refocus on our goals to make up for "failed initiatives" (read: weight loss), while remembering to celebrate the successes in the areas we've performed well (read: marriage and motherhood).
New month, new attitude, right? I say let's flip the calendar page and get going!
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