I recently noticed that Justin says "quaf-quaf" for wash cloth just like Leanna used to. : )
One of my favorites is macaroni, which he says as, "maca-the-roni."
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Dolls
Leanna is just thrilled because a neighbor is getting ready to move and gave Leanna a box of porcelain dolls. She kept the expensive ones, but some of the dolls she gave Leanna are very pretty. It's really cute to see how very careful and loving she's being while holding these dolls. She gently pets their hair and carefully sets them down.
Home repairs
Tom put a new door on our back porch entrance. He got one for free that someone was getting rid of. It's so much warmer back there now! Hopefully we will see some savings on our heating bill because SOMEONE IS CERTAINLY GETTING RICH OFF HEATING PRICES THIS WINTER!
Midwife visit, again
Went to the midwife's again yesterday. I asked if they were still boycotting the hospital yet and she said yes. I asked if the other two hospitals they use are midwife-friendly. She said it's not so much that they aren't midwife friendly, but that they are too busy. She said the nurses have so much paperwork and responsibilities that they don't remember to (for example) come give you your motrin after the birth or to change your pads(you bleed a lot after birth). She says she's been telling all her clients that they might want to bring their own pillows and motrin to the hospital. I'm a bit scared of how things will go, having to use a different hospital this time. I talked to her about wanting to leave early, and how that might go. Basically it depends on when the physician can examine the baby and give an ok for discharge. And that can depend on when the baby is born. I also let her know I planned to get to the hospital as late as possible, which I did with the last two births also. Since I have the advantage of living very close to her she said that we might be able to work that out (meaning she could come check me to see how close to delivery I was, so that I could wait to go to the hospital until it was really time).
We also talked about the gestational diabetes test. It's a big pain in the butt for me! You eat a breakfast that is uncomfortably big (for me), and then have your blood drawn exactly an hour later. The fact that I must walk to the test and walk with young children makes it very difficult to time it just right. I asked her if it was likely that I would develop diabetes anyway-this is my fourth pregnancy! She said actually, no. She said that in other countries they test women based on their histories and when problems occur instead of testing all women for all things. (That's the US way I guess, make more $ for the insurance companies!) I was really surprised the first time I used the midwife and they told me I had the option to not do some of the testing. You weren't even given a choice with the obstetrician. The tests had a high rate of false positives and for me, the results didn't matter. (I would not abort). So it was nice to be able to skip them. The midwife said that there are ways to cheat with the diabetes test, and given my history she was entirely comfortable doing just that. She said because I have small babies and eat decently and haven't developed it with the other pregnancies there was very little chance I'd get it now. So they'll just draw blood at some point and test it that way. Much easier for me. I am very glad there is a midwife here! Now if only we could have a home birth I'd be really happy!!
We also talked about the gestational diabetes test. It's a big pain in the butt for me! You eat a breakfast that is uncomfortably big (for me), and then have your blood drawn exactly an hour later. The fact that I must walk to the test and walk with young children makes it very difficult to time it just right. I asked her if it was likely that I would develop diabetes anyway-this is my fourth pregnancy! She said actually, no. She said that in other countries they test women based on their histories and when problems occur instead of testing all women for all things. (That's the US way I guess, make more $ for the insurance companies!) I was really surprised the first time I used the midwife and they told me I had the option to not do some of the testing. You weren't even given a choice with the obstetrician. The tests had a high rate of false positives and for me, the results didn't matter. (I would not abort). So it was nice to be able to skip them. The midwife said that there are ways to cheat with the diabetes test, and given my history she was entirely comfortable doing just that. She said because I have small babies and eat decently and haven't developed it with the other pregnancies there was very little chance I'd get it now. So they'll just draw blood at some point and test it that way. Much easier for me. I am very glad there is a midwife here! Now if only we could have a home birth I'd be really happy!!
Back to school!
Today was Leanna's first day back in school-it took about an extra 10 minutes each way thanks to people who either don't shovel or barely do it. A lot of people don't shovel a big enough path for the stroller to get through. I'd still rather take them in the stroller because the boys are too little and wild and unpredictable to take across the major road we have to cross. And when we cross that road I like to hold Leanna's hand, which would be impossible if I was walking with both boys. Cars just come too fast and too many drivers don't pay attention.
I was lucky at one point when the stroller was getting stuck a man came over and helped me. And we were lucky the crossing guard was there today-I wish she'd show up on a regular basis. It's too hard for me, I can't see above the buses if there are cars coming so it's much safer with a crossing guard there!!
I was lucky at one point when the stroller was getting stuck a man came over and helped me. And we were lucky the crossing guard was there today-I wish she'd show up on a regular basis. It's too hard for me, I can't see above the buses if there are cars coming so it's much safer with a crossing guard there!!
Monday, February 19, 2007
Anyone??
Anyone know of a (good) recipie for peanut butter bars? My husband remembers eating some in school with a brown frosting that he says wasn't peanut butter or chocolate frosting.
Sunday, February 18, 2007
Nurturing Justin
I burned my thumb tonight and Justin was so sweet. I was holding an ice pac to it and he went and got a roll of toilet paper, pulled off some and very gently wrapped it around my thumb, saying, "that will help you." I think he meant it to be a bandaid of sorts. I said thank you and he replied, you're welcome! Then he went and got a water bottle and wanted to pour some on my thumb, telling me that it would help me feel better. He really is very sweet.
Just a thought
Hoping to have our street plowed soon-This afternoon Tom said he and about 10 guys were all out in the street helping a Uhaul that got stuck. I guess that'd be one of the benefits of the snow-it helps people to be nice to each other.
More on cravings
I was just reading people's comments on what they are craving during pregnancy. Bizzare! It's just interesting to me because I always wondering if you are craving something, does that mean it contains some mineral or nutrient that your body needs? But people crave some strange things!
With Leanna: In the beginning I craved hot salty french fries! I think I needed the salt. Then later I was eating lots of fruit, Strawberries more than anything. Working in a grocery store, I had the hook-up! My people in the produce dept. would bring me over those little green containers of Strawberries and I would inhale them!! Ate lots of peaches and pineapple too. I also ate a lot of salads. And got hooked on using dressing or mayo on all kinds of stuff. (of course I also had a friend in the bakery dept. who would drop off cookies right into my apron pocket every time she went through my dept.) And later on a guy I worked with made the best cheeseburger subs EVER! A few of the roast beefs I had to cut made me nautious and tuna fish had absolutely no appeal to me. Strawberries and french fries were the only true cravings though.
With Justin: It was about food aversions, not cravings. The smell of coffee turned me off completely. And although I love grilled chicken, Barnes and Nobles cafe made these foccacia grilled chicken sandwiches that made me feel sick to my stomach when I smelled them. I did really crave a friendly's ice-cream which I didn't get to have until later.
With Timothy: The smell of coffee turned me off again. That was why I immediately thought I was pregnant, although a bad test said I wasn't. Other than that, nothing seemed to stand out, foodwise.
Baby #4: It's again about the cravings, not aversions. Foods just taste better to me than normal. And I can stop eating foods after a little, when normally I would just want to keep eating and eating and eating. It really makes me wonder if some people aren't more prone to weight gain because their bodies tell them to keep eating when other people's tell them to stop.
With Leanna: In the beginning I craved hot salty french fries! I think I needed the salt. Then later I was eating lots of fruit, Strawberries more than anything. Working in a grocery store, I had the hook-up! My people in the produce dept. would bring me over those little green containers of Strawberries and I would inhale them!! Ate lots of peaches and pineapple too. I also ate a lot of salads. And got hooked on using dressing or mayo on all kinds of stuff. (of course I also had a friend in the bakery dept. who would drop off cookies right into my apron pocket every time she went through my dept.) And later on a guy I worked with made the best cheeseburger subs EVER! A few of the roast beefs I had to cut made me nautious and tuna fish had absolutely no appeal to me. Strawberries and french fries were the only true cravings though.
With Justin: It was about food aversions, not cravings. The smell of coffee turned me off completely. And although I love grilled chicken, Barnes and Nobles cafe made these foccacia grilled chicken sandwiches that made me feel sick to my stomach when I smelled them. I did really crave a friendly's ice-cream which I didn't get to have until later.
With Timothy: The smell of coffee turned me off again. That was why I immediately thought I was pregnant, although a bad test said I wasn't. Other than that, nothing seemed to stand out, foodwise.
Baby #4: It's again about the cravings, not aversions. Foods just taste better to me than normal. And I can stop eating foods after a little, when normally I would just want to keep eating and eating and eating. It really makes me wonder if some people aren't more prone to weight gain because their bodies tell them to keep eating when other people's tell them to stop.
Saturday, February 17, 2007
Friday, February 16, 2007
Studies
I felt compelled to respond to the questions about the validity of studies. Especially since it's come up before. Yes, you can always point to studies that contradict each other. Before you make a decision based on a new study that's come out you have to keep a few things in mind.
Who funded the study? (If for example, a cigarette company is the one who paid for a study and it finds that cigarettes are actually quite healthy, you might question the results of that study.) How does it compare with other studies on the same subject and if it has a very different result than previous studies, WHY? What kind of methods did they use to determine the results? Do they adequately explain the reasons they came to a different conclusion? Usually they will explain how they obtained their info (briefly)--if I can come up with other explanations for the results I question the study. It can be very difficult to draw conclusions. For example,
"the problem with a study that compared, say, kids who ride to school in a Mercedes with kids who ride the bus. The data would no doubt show that Mercedes kids are more likely to score high on their SATs, go to college, and go on to high-paying jobs. None of that has anything to do with the car, but the comparison would make it look as if it did. "
from The Benefits of Bozo:Proof that tv doesn't harm kids (http://www.slate.com/id/2136372/ ) (and I don't completely agree with that study's conclusion!)
You have to keep things like that in mind when you read studies. There's always going to be some information that you don't know, that maybe you can't know. But you do the best you can with the info you are given. The more you read, the better position you are in to make an informed decision.
Also, the study often shows general results. As in the case of the breastfeeding & heart health study, it shows a reduced risk of heart disease for women who breastfeed. That doesn't mean if you breastfeed there is no way you will ever contract heart disease. There are other factors that affect your chances. This is true for all studies. And just because you know someone who contradicts the results of the study does not make the study untrue. Hopefully it will give you a healthy skepticism. It doesn't mean that you automatically throw out the results of the study. Everyone knows someone who chain smoked and drank and ate fatty horrible foods their whole life and still lived to be 100. Or the health nut who died early. It happens. That doesn't mean you should ignore good advice.
Who funded the study? (If for example, a cigarette company is the one who paid for a study and it finds that cigarettes are actually quite healthy, you might question the results of that study.) How does it compare with other studies on the same subject and if it has a very different result than previous studies, WHY? What kind of methods did they use to determine the results? Do they adequately explain the reasons they came to a different conclusion? Usually they will explain how they obtained their info (briefly)--if I can come up with other explanations for the results I question the study. It can be very difficult to draw conclusions. For example,
"the problem with a study that compared, say, kids who ride to school in a Mercedes with kids who ride the bus. The data would no doubt show that Mercedes kids are more likely to score high on their SATs, go to college, and go on to high-paying jobs. None of that has anything to do with the car, but the comparison would make it look as if it did. "
from The Benefits of Bozo:Proof that tv doesn't harm kids (http://www.slate.com/id/2136372/ ) (and I don't completely agree with that study's conclusion!)
You have to keep things like that in mind when you read studies. There's always going to be some information that you don't know, that maybe you can't know. But you do the best you can with the info you are given. The more you read, the better position you are in to make an informed decision.
Also, the study often shows general results. As in the case of the breastfeeding & heart health study, it shows a reduced risk of heart disease for women who breastfeed. That doesn't mean if you breastfeed there is no way you will ever contract heart disease. There are other factors that affect your chances. This is true for all studies. And just because you know someone who contradicts the results of the study does not make the study untrue. Hopefully it will give you a healthy skepticism. It doesn't mean that you automatically throw out the results of the study. Everyone knows someone who chain smoked and drank and ate fatty horrible foods their whole life and still lived to be 100. Or the health nut who died early. It happens. That doesn't mean you should ignore good advice.
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Breastfeeding and Heart health
A study of almost 100,000 women has shown that those who breast fed were 24 per cent less likely to suffer a heart attack.
I like that this article mentions, "It is becoming more and more clear that a lot of the things we do in modern life, such as eating trans fats or drriving rather than walking, mess with the body. " The more I read the more clear it becomes that so much of modern life is contradictory with how the human body is meant to function.
See the article RIGHT HERE
I like that this article mentions, "It is becoming more and more clear that a lot of the things we do in modern life, such as eating trans fats or drriving rather than walking, mess with the body. " The more I read the more clear it becomes that so much of modern life is contradictory with how the human body is meant to function.
See the article RIGHT HERE
Should Gramdma divorce Grandpa?
For financial reasons, of course!! Senior couples are splitting up in record numbers, and a Medicaid system that leaves one spouse in poverty as the other is dying may be a reason.
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
My valentine from Leanna
Leanna made me a card that she lost, and a painting, and tonight she made me this heart out of marshmellows and candy cane bits. Very sweet.
Timothy and snow
Last night I took the kids outside to shovel in front of our house and Timothy really liked running down the street
away from me in the snow. Today I took him out and he just wasn't into it at all. The only way I got him to smile was by walking back and forth shuffling my feet. It made a funny sound and it sent snow flying. That made Timothy smile.
Tom
Tom made some sausage on the grill today-fine by me, one less thing I have to make and try not to burn! He didn't work today. 
Justin and the snow
Justin liked the snow, but got cold very easy. (his gloves weren't waterproof like Leanna's though, I think that made a difference) He has two cuts on his face right now, no I don't know how he got them. He's constantly falling and getting hurt.
Well this explains a lot!
When a man fails to help out around the house, his poor performance might be related to a subconscious tendency to resist doing anything his wife wants, a new study suggests.
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
No School
No school for Leanna today, the district has an early dismissal and no afternoon kindergarten. More time to work on her valentines for her class-I'm having her write everyone's name herself. It's fun trying to keep them legible, kindergarteners write letters backwards and not always in straight lines, etc. Her pack didn't come with envelopes, you're just supposed to fold them in half. I may have to go buy envelopes to write her classmates names on the outside, just so they are delivered to the correct person!
I love that I get an email to tell me when the district makes these announcements. I signed up through the newspaper online to get delays, cancellations, and dismissals emailed to me. Much easier than waiting for the radio to do it! I remember as a teenager freqently waking up right as the radio was listing cancellations for oh, say, Bethlehem school district! NOOOOOO! That meant I had missed mine and had to wait around for them to list all the schools again!
I love that I get an email to tell me when the district makes these announcements. I signed up through the newspaper online to get delays, cancellations, and dismissals emailed to me. Much easier than waiting for the radio to do it! I remember as a teenager freqently waking up right as the radio was listing cancellations for oh, say, Bethlehem school district! NOOOOOO! That meant I had missed mine and had to wait around for them to list all the schools again!
Monday, February 12, 2007
The baby
I'm about 17 or 18 weeks into the pregnancy. I'm almost halfway through. The baby is about 5 oz. now and around 5 inches long — about the size of a large onion. It should be in the middle of a growth spurt though, so that will change rapidly. My main pregnancy symptom is still just being extra tired. Still have the cravings. No boy names chosen yet.
Anyone want to guess the sex? We'll see if you're clairvoyant......
Anyone want to guess the sex? We'll see if you're clairvoyant......
Current Favorite music
Justin's favorite songs right now include(but are not limited to): We're Not Gonna Take it by Twisted Sister, ABC Rock by Greg and Steve, Animal by Def Lepard, We are the Dinosaurs by Laurie Berkner, I've Been Workin' On the Railroad, Istanbul by They Might Be Giants, Eight Days a Week by the Beatles, and Rockabye Your Bears by the Wiggles.
Baby Chime
I think this looks neat(to see a pic, follow the link in the subject):
The BabyChime hangs from a 34-inch silver necklace so that it rests – and dances – on the mommy’s growing belly, never far from her baby. During the pregnancy, the mom-to-be, or her partner, can regularly move the chime over the belly to generate a gentle and calming sound. Upon birth, the baby can recognize the sound and associate the soothing chime with the feelings of being in the womb, such as comfort and security, peace and serenity.
The BabyChime hangs from a 34-inch silver necklace so that it rests – and dances – on the mommy’s growing belly, never far from her baby. During the pregnancy, the mom-to-be, or her partner, can regularly move the chime over the belly to generate a gentle and calming sound. Upon birth, the baby can recognize the sound and associate the soothing chime with the feelings of being in the womb, such as comfort and security, peace and serenity.
Sunday, February 11, 2007
Pillowcases
My Mom's job loss has left her with extra time to do things. She finally finished my Christmas present pillow cases! Yay! I've been waiting for those. They suit me perfectly-they have a unicorn (horses are my favorite animal), they're dressed as though from midevil times, and it's a couple-good for bedroom pillows. Pretty!
Sleeping pictures
Justin fell asleep one night sitting in Leanna's Dora chair, a christmas present from Korinna.
Timothy asleep in the chair next to Daddy.
Believe it or not, I have a lot more pictures of people sleeping than I post!
Staredown!
Timothy has some of the funniest expressions! And what makes it funnier still is the fact that the meanest expressions don't seem to be provoked by anything!
Keeping Busy
I don't know how she stayed warm in this outfit, but Leanna wasn't bothered by the cold at all in this outfit. Self-chosen, I should add. Ummm, although it did come with a see-through skirt originally. And had a dance she made up to perform in it!
PS. That isn't a headband, it's a hairband. That's just how she wears them(just to drive me crazy, I think)
Cake replaces cheerios, after some thought
I tend to rip papers that I am throwing away, it's a habbit. Justin stopped me from throwing some away the other day and was pretending that the little pieces of paper were money. He generously gave me a hundred dollars right away!
Today he was playing with the "money" again. I asked him what he was going to buy. He replied, "Milk......and cheerios." After a pause he said, "Milk and Cake!" Those are his fondest wishes right now, lol.
Today he was playing with the "money" again. I asked him what he was going to buy. He replied, "Milk......and cheerios." After a pause he said, "Milk and Cake!" Those are his fondest wishes right now, lol.
Friday, February 09, 2007
Timothy's dr visit
Timothy went for his 15 month checkup today(although he's actually 16 months old, but one late appointment keeps them late forrever because of shots). He's 30" tall, and 19 pounds, 12 ounces, still little! I don't know percentiles because they didn't tell me. The doctor was concerned that the city didn't contact me about Timothy's lead level so she said she'd call them again. Apparently they're supposed to find out about inspecting your home and such to figure out why you have the high lead levels. I'm all for that!
Other than that, all's well.
Other than that, all's well.
Thursday, February 08, 2007
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
Big Business does the right thing for once!!
So apparently the National Pork board CEO apologized for the offensive comments, and the staff there were offended that people would think they weren't supportive of nursing mothers, so they dug into their own pockets-not the coorporation's money-to donate to the mother's milk bank of Ohio! There were legal reasons the company couldn't donate, so it's great that they cared enough to set up a way to help anyway.
The shirt is now available reading, Breast, the original white milk. Slightly different, same point.
As she states, "Help me spread the word about a company that not only admitted their mistake, but that quickly worked to come together in an act of good will that will benefit the countless babies and families that benefit from the work of the Mother's Milk Bank of Ohio......When big business sees the support that flows their way when they do the right thing, more businesses will realize the value of doing the right thing.."
The shirt is now available reading, Breast, the original white milk. Slightly different, same point.
As she states, "Help me spread the word about a company that not only admitted their mistake, but that quickly worked to come together in an act of good will that will benefit the countless babies and families that benefit from the work of the Mother's Milk Bank of Ohio......When big business sees the support that flows their way when they do the right thing, more businesses will realize the value of doing the right thing.."
Traveling with kids
Also interesting, I found a website (www.parentography.com/ ) that recommends places for parents to go with their kids. Since I know I am not the only one with kids who love Thomas the train, I found out that Thomas will be visiting PA: The Strasburg Railroad will be hosting the All Aboard tour of a Day out with Thomas on multiple dates this year. Thomas will be there June 16th to 24th, September 15th to 23rd, and November 30th to December 2nd.
I'm thinking that would make a great birthday present for Leanna and Justin, we'll have to see how things go.
I'm thinking that would make a great birthday present for Leanna and Justin, we'll have to see how things go.
Where do you go for unisex baby clothes?
As they say, it's getting harder to find unisex clothes. It's funny, one person comments that they think yellow and green are both boy colors and would never put a girl in them. That's funny I really think of yellow as a girl color and green as more of a boy color, though I put baby Leanna in green and the boys in yellow also.
In time for Valentine's Day.....
A couple's skeletal remains were found, locked in an embrace for 5,000 years. They've found women embracing children before, but never a man and woman.
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Blessing in disguise
I should add something here about my Mom losing her job. While it was certainly not a fun experience for her, I think everyone, including her, thinks it really was for the best. And I have to say, so far, I've benefited more than anyone from it. It was really nice to be able to ask her to come over the past two days to watch Justin and Timothy so I could walk Leanna to school. I really didn't want to take the boys out in that weather. Leanna had delays both days because of the cold. And my Mom's been over to help me clean a few times too, and once just to read stories to the kids. She didn't have time for that stuff before. So while I am sorry that she had the experience of losing her job, I am happy that she is rid of a very stressful job and I am grateful that it means we get to spend extra time with her, and I am grateful that it means extra help for me too(I have to be honest!) I am really hoping that she will find a job that she likes, with maybe a few less hours and a lot less stress!!
Names
I guess this is partially of interest to me since I have to find a boy name for this baby (we still have our standby name for a girl, should Laura's prediction be correct) No I have not had an ultrasound or anything.
It's funny, when Leanna would talk about her classmates, I thought she was surely misunderstanding or misprounouncing some of their names. We just got her class picture this week finally. Wow.
Girls:
Rosanna, Jaquari, Cyrstal, Dynasty, Kiara, Carizmah, Jaqueline, and Kaleishalyze.
Boys:
Joshua, Gullermo, Joshua, Isai, Brice, Ryan, Justice, Jose, Brian, Allen, Alex, Anthony, Felix, Elijah, and Dominic.
There are a few others that didn't have their pictures taken, I don't know their names.
It's funny, when Leanna would talk about her classmates, I thought she was surely misunderstanding or misprounouncing some of their names. We just got her class picture this week finally. Wow.
Girls:
Rosanna, Jaquari, Cyrstal, Dynasty, Kiara, Carizmah, Jaqueline, and Kaleishalyze.
Boys:
Joshua, Gullermo, Joshua, Isai, Brice, Ryan, Justice, Jose, Brian, Allen, Alex, Anthony, Felix, Elijah, and Dominic.
There are a few others that didn't have their pictures taken, I don't know their names.
Nurturing Leanna
I almost forgot, Leanna wanted me to post about her voluntarily bringing me water and a cookie. (I made double peanut butter cookies tonight) (Sorry Jamie! I feel like I should apologize to you, LOL) Anyway......She said that she loves me and she will make valentines for everyone tomorrow.
She had no ulterior motives, she just wanted to be sweet. That's certainly worth posting about, so here it is.
She had no ulterior motives, she just wanted to be sweet. That's certainly worth posting about, so here it is.
If you're feeling overwhelmed......
I've been having one of those days where the kids were just too much for me.........they were destroying one thing after another, piling extra work up on me. They were all being very clingy, all wanting me to hold them at the same time. Maybe a message was being sent to me because I checked one of my favorite blogs tonight and she had a post on What would Michelle Duggar Do? Michelle Duggar is pregnant with her 17th child. The woman has spent 12 years of her life pregnant!! Her family website has some articles on organization and why they no longer believe in birth control and advice for moms and dads. It's not a big website, I thought it was interesting to read. While I would not personally choose their lifestyle, I think there is a lot to admire about it though.......
Sunday, February 04, 2007
Not sure about this one either.....
Texas Governor Rick Perry has signed an executive order that will require all schoolgirls to be vaccinated against the sexually transmitted virus that causes cervical cancer. Girls will have to get Merck's new vaccine Gardasil, which protects against strains of HPV that are responsible for most cases of cervical cancer. Texas becomes the first state to require the shots.Merck is paying for efforts to pass laws in several states that would require the vaccine for girls as young as eleven or 12.
I'm not against the vaccine itself, although I'd like it to be around for a while before forcing it upon my own child. I don't think it encourages promiscuity. As a person who has dealt with cervical cancer (caught early enough) I do understand that this is lifesaving. (although it only deals with the biggest causer of cervical cancer, not all of them). I take issue with the gov.'t forcing it on us-saying you must have this shot for school. And I especially take issue with the fact that the reason this vaccine is being so heavily promoted is to raise profits for Merck. Apparently the reason behind the Texas governor's signing an order to make it mandatory that schoolgirls get the vaccine is his financial connections to Merck, which manufactures Gardasil. That is unconscionable. And all too common!
I'm not against the vaccine itself, although I'd like it to be around for a while before forcing it upon my own child. I don't think it encourages promiscuity. As a person who has dealt with cervical cancer (caught early enough) I do understand that this is lifesaving. (although it only deals with the biggest causer of cervical cancer, not all of them). I take issue with the gov.'t forcing it on us-saying you must have this shot for school. And I especially take issue with the fact that the reason this vaccine is being so heavily promoted is to raise profits for Merck. Apparently the reason behind the Texas governor's signing an order to make it mandatory that schoolgirls get the vaccine is his financial connections to Merck, which manufactures Gardasil. That is unconscionable. And all too common!
Corporate bullies
Here is a case of a big coorporation just being bullies. The national pork producing lobby group is threatening to sue a woman who raises money for breastfeeding causes by producing t-shirts. One of the t-shirts reads, "The Other White Milk," referring to mother's milk. Well, the corporate porkers say she's infringing on their trademark and encouraging breastfeeding for "non-infant consumption." Apparently they think that people visiting a blog promoting breastfeeding would be confused that that one particular t-shirt might for some strange reason be maligning pork? Paradying a well known slogan somehow tarnishes the ""good reputation" of the national pork board? Yes, I can see how a job slaughtering animals for profit wouldn't want to be associated with breastfeeding!
From her blog: Apparently the National Pork Board is worried that someone might come to my breastfeeding blog, check out the shirts and worry that when I say "white milk" what I really mean is "thick and juicy, straight from the hog PORK." Come on now, be honest...were you confused? Because I sort of thought I was comparing breastmilk (which just happens to be white) with the milk of a variety of other animals (cows? goats?) that happen to produce white milk (not kangaroos though, their milk is pink) and that often gets fed to infants INSTEAD of breast milk. Wait, it gets better... As best I can tell, the issue that REALLY has their panties in a wad is expressed in this quote from the cease and desist letter:"In addition, your use of this slogan also tarnishes the good reputation of the National Pork Board's mark in light of your apparent attempt to promote the use of breastmilk beyond merely for infant consumption, such as with the following slogans on your website in close proximity to the slogan "The Other White Milk." "Dairy Diva," "Nursing, Nature's Own Breast Enhancement," "Eat at Mom's, fast-fresh-from the breast," and "My Milk is the Breast."
Check out the woman's blog, it's linked from the title of this post, pass the link on to anyone who'd be interested.
From her blog: Apparently the National Pork Board is worried that someone might come to my breastfeeding blog, check out the shirts and worry that when I say "white milk" what I really mean is "thick and juicy, straight from the hog PORK." Come on now, be honest...were you confused? Because I sort of thought I was comparing breastmilk (which just happens to be white) with the milk of a variety of other animals (cows? goats?) that happen to produce white milk (not kangaroos though, their milk is pink) and that often gets fed to infants INSTEAD of breast milk. Wait, it gets better... As best I can tell, the issue that REALLY has their panties in a wad is expressed in this quote from the cease and desist letter:"In addition, your use of this slogan also tarnishes the good reputation of the National Pork Board's mark in light of your apparent attempt to promote the use of breastmilk beyond merely for infant consumption, such as with the following slogans on your website in close proximity to the slogan "The Other White Milk." "Dairy Diva," "Nursing, Nature's Own Breast Enhancement," "Eat at Mom's, fast-fresh-from the breast," and "My Milk is the Breast."
Check out the woman's blog, it's linked from the title of this post, pass the link on to anyone who'd be interested.
Friday, February 02, 2007
Food discoveries
I found out a few things this week. Timothy likes strawberries and he ate a couple slices of cucumber! He also ate some sliced carrots, from a baby food jar, but still! He hasn't eaten vegetables for a while, so this is exciting for me. Leanna and Justin ate Kraft mac N cheese even though they stopped eating easy mac (the microwave kind) a long time ago. And last night I made Leanna a big bowl of rice and chicken and she ate the whole thing! The last time I made that for her she ate all the chicken out of it and only ate the rice that stuck to the chicken. Not that rice is the most nutritional food ever, but it's better than some of the other stuff she eats and it can be mixed with more nutritional foods later! Plus it's more filling, and I need foods that fill her up. Right now she practically lives off peanut butter and jelly and it's driving me crazy. Every new food they eat is a victory for me, especially if it's something good for them. And frankly, it's just a good feeling when they willingly eat and enjoy something I've made for them.
Thursday, February 01, 2007
Our baby
Timothy already knows to come to me so I can kiss a boo-boo. He can't form the words to ask me to do it yet, but he will run over holding out the finger that just got stepped on, or whatever. He sometimes tries to sing, which is adorable. You'd have to hear it. I've already found him just standing there, swaying to music playing on the radio or computer. He's growing so fast.
Do you want umm, fries with that?
I love having conversations with a toddler. Provided you are in the right mood, they can be hilarious. Sometimes it's just fun to see how their minds work.
Today Justin was emphatically assuring me that he did NOT want any ketchup. So I was messing with him, asking if he was SURE he didn't want ketchup......or mustard, or salad dressing, or relish, or tuna or.............and Justin took advantage of the pause to yell "Daddy!" So he might just want to eat Daddy with his chicken nuggets. He thought it was pretty funny.
(he's been on a kick where he begs for chicken nuggets then only eats maybe one of them.)
Today Justin was emphatically assuring me that he did NOT want any ketchup. So I was messing with him, asking if he was SURE he didn't want ketchup......or mustard, or salad dressing, or relish, or tuna or.............and Justin took advantage of the pause to yell "Daddy!" So he might just want to eat Daddy with his chicken nuggets. He thought it was pretty funny.
(he's been on a kick where he begs for chicken nuggets then only eats maybe one of them.)
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Mild Superpowers
I think this is really interesting. The Dilbert guy asks people what their mild superpowers are. Apparently a lot of people can wake up seconds before their alarm goes off or can make streetlights go out.
I saw one other person(So far, there's a lot of comments) who has mine. No matter what store I am in, no matter how many items people have, whatever line I choose to stand in is ALWAYS the longest one. Even if I switch to another line because it's suddenly jumped 5 spaces, that line then becomes the longest one. Suddenly the cashier will need to call for change or they will switch cash registers or they will need an exceptionally long price check.
I think one of Tom's would be that he is very good at telling you exactly what year a song came out. It's annoying sometimes. He's also pretty good at telling you what group is playing just by the sound of the singer's voice (even if it's a song he's never heard).
I saw one other person(So far, there's a lot of comments) who has mine. No matter what store I am in, no matter how many items people have, whatever line I choose to stand in is ALWAYS the longest one. Even if I switch to another line because it's suddenly jumped 5 spaces, that line then becomes the longest one. Suddenly the cashier will need to call for change or they will switch cash registers or they will need an exceptionally long price check.
I think one of Tom's would be that he is very good at telling you exactly what year a song came out. It's annoying sometimes. He's also pretty good at telling you what group is playing just by the sound of the singer's voice (even if it's a song he's never heard).
Monday, January 29, 2007
Birthday Wishes
I have to wish a Happy Birthday to my father-in-law, whose birthday was yesterday. We all had fun visiting with him last night. Leanna got to give Pop-Pop the very special card she made for him. And helping my mother-in-law with her blog made me aware of some new things I can do with my own blog(stuff that has changed since I started blogging). I didn't take any pictures, but I did videotape a little. I recently realized I haven't done any videotaping for a while, and I really like to do that while the kids are so small. The amount of changes they go through is amazing. It's great to hear how little their voices sound when you go back and watch later.
A Snack for the road!
While riding his sister's scooter, Justin enjoys a snack, cookies he found hiding in the pantry!
Is your food too hot?
Leanna teaches her little brother how to cool off chicken nuggets. Just put ice-cubes on top!
Food or Lewd?
There are so many things I could say about this article that I'm just not even going to get into it!
Yoga in schools?
Some parents are claiming yoga in school would violate separation of church and state laws because of it's hindu roots. However they quote a woman who has designed a yoga program without anything spiritual or reglious.
Why do they want yoga in schools? Teachers say it helps calm students with attention-deficit disorder and may reduce childhood obesity. Researchers found a correlation between yoga and better behavior and grades, and they said young yogis were more fit than the district average from the California Physical Fitness Test.
Opponents claim: "It's pretty simple: Yoga is a religious practice in Hinduism. It's the way to reach enlightenment. To bring it to the west and bill it as a scientific practice for fitness is dishonest," said Hunt, 80.
I figure if they could force us to do country-line dancing in gym class when I was in high school, yoga certainly can't be worse! No, seriously, I think it's a good idea. Anything that can help kids to focus and improve grades, behavior, and fitness levels is great. It won't work for all kids but it would be just one more weapon in the arsenal, you know?
Why do they want yoga in schools? Teachers say it helps calm students with attention-deficit disorder and may reduce childhood obesity. Researchers found a correlation between yoga and better behavior and grades, and they said young yogis were more fit than the district average from the California Physical Fitness Test.
Opponents claim: "It's pretty simple: Yoga is a religious practice in Hinduism. It's the way to reach enlightenment. To bring it to the west and bill it as a scientific practice for fitness is dishonest," said Hunt, 80.
I figure if they could force us to do country-line dancing in gym class when I was in high school, yoga certainly can't be worse! No, seriously, I think it's a good idea. Anything that can help kids to focus and improve grades, behavior, and fitness levels is great. It won't work for all kids but it would be just one more weapon in the arsenal, you know?
Top 10 foods for a Good Night's Sleep
I only knew some of these foods helped you to sleep. At the end it has a recipe for Lullabye muffins that looks tasty to me.
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Friday, January 26, 2007
Laura
It took four tries to get this, so I"m posting it!! In one picture it couldn't find a face!! Even when I marked the face it still couldn't find a match.
Tom's collage
This is too much fun! I love, love, love that one of his is Leslie Nielson! Um, I should make clear though, that I have no physical interest in Leslie Nielson-I just like many of his movies!
Leanna's collage
I used an old picture, where she still has bangs. They actually show you 10 face matches. Almost all Leanna's were Asian!
This is fun!
Ok, this compares a photo you upload to celebrity pictures to see who you most resemble. It tells you the percentage also. You do have to sign up with my herritage to see the results though.
I uploaded a photo with me, Laura, and I"m holding Timothy. I was having trouble finding a picture of just me. So it actually scanned all three faces. It said Laura most resembled Kian Egan (? no clue who that is), I resembled Angela Merkel (? Again, no clue), and Timothy resembled Johhny Rzeznik, lead singer of the goo goo dolls.
Tried it again with a picture of me and Leanna. It said Leanna resembled Tara Reid (and she actually did with the picture they used) and I looked like Kelly Hu.
I uploaded a photo with me, Laura, and I"m holding Timothy. I was having trouble finding a picture of just me. So it actually scanned all three faces. It said Laura most resembled Kian Egan (? no clue who that is), I resembled Angela Merkel (? Again, no clue), and Timothy resembled Johhny Rzeznik, lead singer of the goo goo dolls.
Tried it again with a picture of me and Leanna. It said Leanna resembled Tara Reid (and she actually did with the picture they used) and I looked like Kelly Hu.
Appalling
I find this absolutely moronic: "Freund argued that case law supports his contention that the school, though a public entity, is not required to protect its children."
I mean come on!! The school can't forsee everything that happens, but once it does, you deal with it! Maybe they couldn't have prevented the first attack, but the other three ........? As far as I'm concerned, children's safety should be the school's responsibility once they step on the bus or (if walking) enter the building. Things like this really make me wish homeschooling was an option for us!
I mean come on!! The school can't forsee everything that happens, but once it does, you deal with it! Maybe they couldn't have prevented the first attack, but the other three ........? As far as I'm concerned, children's safety should be the school's responsibility once they step on the bus or (if walking) enter the building. Things like this really make me wish homeschooling was an option for us!
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
midwife visit
I was kind of worried about the midwife visit today. It was supposed to be at 9:40, but they called me at 8:30 to push it back til later because she was delivering a baby. I couldn't go any later though because of taking Leanna to school, so we had to go after she got out of school. The last time we were there Justin was kind of a tiny terror. Usually the kids do well when we go out somewhere, but for some reason he's been kind of rammy at the midwives' office. I was really impressed though, because today he just sat in the chair and watched. That was a big relief for me. Leanna "helped" the midwife with finding the heartbeat by cleaning the gel off my belly afterwards. Usually they let her use the doppler to actually find the heartbeat, but it's too early for that yet. At this stage finding the baby's heartbeat is all about angles. She reassured me that it is normal to be unable to tell whether your nausea is from being hungry, eating too much and being too full, or just feeling sick. She recommended I eat lots of protein because it lasts longer. She said keep eating, because it doesn't seem to be affecting me (I've only gained a pound in the last month). We discussed that we may have to use a different hospital this time because they are boycotting the one I've always used. Apparently a woman asked for an epidural and it took them 4 hours to get it to her. They pay this guy $1,000/hr. to be on call and he can't even do his job! Anyone thinking they're in the wrong field?! She said this is the third time this has happened and the hospital doesn't care. As she said, she doesn't have many who use an epidural, but if a woman wants it, she should be able to get it. Geez. I've lost a lot of respect for doctors and hospitals since I started having babies.
Mommy's little helper
Leanna changed her first diaper today (non-poopy). She's been wanting to do that for a while now, crazy kid. She and Justin are both thrilled whenever Timothy will let them pick him up or hug him or in this case, will lay down for her to change his diaper. It is really gratifying to see the affection between them.
Wishing for snow
Leanna's been so excited by the miniscule amounts of snow we've had recently. She got all giddy at the sight of snow on the sidewalk. Before she went in to school she thoughtfully placed some snow on Justin's stroller tray so he could play with it on the way home! She was very concerned about not having snow pants to wear so she can play in the snow. I might have some in a box upstairs, someone's hand-me-downs, I have to check. I really hope they get their snow to play in before this winter is over. I know I have some great memories of playing in the snow as a kid.
Bad habits vs. expectations
I found this post interesting also. It's a viewpoint you don't often hear or see. The problem I have with it though is that, like many aspects of Attachment parenting, it gets very difficult when you have children so close in age. Most people assume if you pracitice extended breastfeeding that you won't have that problem, but I can testify that it happens!!
Blog post:
"I've been checking out this "NEW DAD DIARY" written by a pediatrician/father (who happens to be the son of the famous parenting author, Dr. William Sears), and I really love what he has to say about creating "bad habits" vs. expectations. I fully agree with how he explains this (and I also parent exactly as he describes):
"Mar. 3 - Creating bad habits?Some new parents tell me in the office that they don't want to breastfeed their baby to sleep because they don't want the baby to become dependent on this. This kind of sounds reasonable. After all, everyone wants a baby that will fall asleep peacefully on their own. My wife, however, feels differently. She doesn't mind nursing Joshua to sleep. In fact, she insists on it. She likes the bonding and closeness. This is what we have done with all our kids so far. What about a year from now when he has gotten so used to it that he won't fall asleep without the breast? Well, that's ok. My wife is up for that. I guess it all has to do with what your expectations are for the future. On one hand, if, in a year from now, you want a baby that is independent at night, then you might think twice about nursing down to sleep at this point. If, on the other hand, you are okay with a prolonged nighttime attachment, then creating this closeness from day one is just fine. Our expectations are that Joshua will nurse to sleep for a couple years, then need to be rocked to sleep, then patted down to sleep. When he is four or five, we might even need to sit with him as he falls asleep. Heck, my 5 and 9 year old like me to sit in their room while they fall asleep at night. I'm fine with this. I just grab a flashlight and a good book, and enjoy a nice quiet half hour of reading. This is simply what we expected it would be like, and I am guessing it will be like this for Joshua too. So, are we creating a habit by nursing down to sleep? Yes, we probably are. Is this a BAD habit? It depends on what your expectations are. For us, the answer is no. We are just creating closeness. That's what attachment parenting is all about."
Your mileage may vary.I still enjoy getting my children to sleep most nights. Last night, lying down with my 11 year old daughter for 10 minutes before she fell asleep, we had the best time talking and snuggling and laughing over some really bad jokes. I was grateful for that time with her, not resentful. And yes, my two younger children (9 and 11) still like for me to lie down with them each night for a few minutes to ease them into sleep mode. It's a privilege.Now don't get me wrong, there were nights in those first baby/toddler years when I felt exhausted or overwhelmed. It's not all sunshine and rainbows and attachment parenting perfection. I did wean my middle child from night nursings (meaning, I would still nurse her to fall asleep, but declined to nurse her again 'til morning) when she turned 2, and my youngest quit wanting to nurse at night on his own at about that age. But in the big picture, I don't mind being an active night time parent. Overall, it's what has worked well for us. And I feel really lucky that Jon has the same approach. He's great about helping to get Elliot to sleep at night with a snuggle or a story. Elliot sometimes now prefers Jon to me for these bedtime routines.
Blog post:
"I've been checking out this "NEW DAD DIARY" written by a pediatrician/father (who happens to be the son of the famous parenting author, Dr. William Sears), and I really love what he has to say about creating "bad habits" vs. expectations. I fully agree with how he explains this (and I also parent exactly as he describes):
"Mar. 3 - Creating bad habits?Some new parents tell me in the office that they don't want to breastfeed their baby to sleep because they don't want the baby to become dependent on this. This kind of sounds reasonable. After all, everyone wants a baby that will fall asleep peacefully on their own. My wife, however, feels differently. She doesn't mind nursing Joshua to sleep. In fact, she insists on it. She likes the bonding and closeness. This is what we have done with all our kids so far. What about a year from now when he has gotten so used to it that he won't fall asleep without the breast? Well, that's ok. My wife is up for that. I guess it all has to do with what your expectations are for the future. On one hand, if, in a year from now, you want a baby that is independent at night, then you might think twice about nursing down to sleep at this point. If, on the other hand, you are okay with a prolonged nighttime attachment, then creating this closeness from day one is just fine. Our expectations are that Joshua will nurse to sleep for a couple years, then need to be rocked to sleep, then patted down to sleep. When he is four or five, we might even need to sit with him as he falls asleep. Heck, my 5 and 9 year old like me to sit in their room while they fall asleep at night. I'm fine with this. I just grab a flashlight and a good book, and enjoy a nice quiet half hour of reading. This is simply what we expected it would be like, and I am guessing it will be like this for Joshua too. So, are we creating a habit by nursing down to sleep? Yes, we probably are. Is this a BAD habit? It depends on what your expectations are. For us, the answer is no. We are just creating closeness. That's what attachment parenting is all about."
Your mileage may vary.I still enjoy getting my children to sleep most nights. Last night, lying down with my 11 year old daughter for 10 minutes before she fell asleep, we had the best time talking and snuggling and laughing over some really bad jokes. I was grateful for that time with her, not resentful. And yes, my two younger children (9 and 11) still like for me to lie down with them each night for a few minutes to ease them into sleep mode. It's a privilege.Now don't get me wrong, there were nights in those first baby/toddler years when I felt exhausted or overwhelmed. It's not all sunshine and rainbows and attachment parenting perfection. I did wean my middle child from night nursings (meaning, I would still nurse her to fall asleep, but declined to nurse her again 'til morning) when she turned 2, and my youngest quit wanting to nurse at night on his own at about that age. But in the big picture, I don't mind being an active night time parent. Overall, it's what has worked well for us. And I feel really lucky that Jon has the same approach. He's great about helping to get Elliot to sleep at night with a snuggle or a story. Elliot sometimes now prefers Jon to me for these bedtime routines.
Hands off my kids' brains, bozos!
A woman blogs about how Hummers are trying to market to children-toddlers!-as a way to establish brand loyalty. This is a subject that's been bothering me for a while too. Yesterday I click on the msn homepage and Justin, who was walking by yells out excitedly, "Geico!" Leanna and Justin are both fascinated by the animated Gecco who is their spokesperson. As I've said before, I purposely try to keep their tv viewing as free of commercials as possible. But I lose my powers when Tom comes home and the tv goes on for the night. One of their current favorites-all three kids will stop what they are doing and watch-is the one where at the car dealership where the salespeople all sing, "So long, farewell, al......, goodbye! Adeiu, adeiu, to you and you and you!" (I don't know how to spell the missing german word, sue me) They will sing along with that commercial! It's cute, and that one is fairly harmless. But there are plenty of adds that make things like alchohol seem cool to very young kids. I like the author's idea of having a class be taught in school to help young children understand what advertising is all about and why they can't believe everything they see on tv and billboards, hear on the radio, or even see at school. Advertising is there too.
I like how one woman points out in the comments below, "The funny thing about the quote you included from the article is that it makes it sound like a bad thing for parents to "cede control to the children"! Like, if only we could go back to the good old days when parents only took their own tastes and interests into account! The Hummer is one thing, but choosing a vacation destination based on "indirect influence" (what holiday would the children enjoy/benefit from the most?) - sounds like good parenting to me."
I like how one woman points out in the comments below, "The funny thing about the quote you included from the article is that it makes it sound like a bad thing for parents to "cede control to the children"! Like, if only we could go back to the good old days when parents only took their own tastes and interests into account! The Hummer is one thing, but choosing a vacation destination based on "indirect influence" (what holiday would the children enjoy/benefit from the most?) - sounds like good parenting to me."
Not that I have many male readers, but.....
This sounds like a neat idea:
VALENTINE'S WITH THOUGHT
by Michael Webb
Founder, TheRomantic.com
If you are going to celebrate Valentine’s, I suggest you do it with a little forethought. I cringe every time I go to the grocery on February 13 or 14 and see dozens of men crowding around the greeting cards to buy their cards at the last possible moment.
Buy your card now and mail it out to Loveland, Colorado for extra special treatment. Your card will be postmarked LOVEland, Colorado and it will also be hand-stamped with a unique four line poem.
The Loveland Chamber of Commerce heads up this yearly romance project with cards going to all 50 states and over 100 foreign countries annually.
It’s simple. Just enclose your pre-addressed, pre-stamped Valentine’s card in a larger envelope and mail to: Postmaster, Attn: Valentines, Loveland CO 80537
You can also send it to postmasters of these cities too:
Valentine, Texas 79854
Valentine, Nebraska 69201
Kissimmee, Florida 32741
Loving, New Mexico 88256
Bridal Veil, Oregon 97010
Romance, Arkansas 72136
VALENTINE'S WITH THOUGHT
by Michael Webb
Founder, TheRomantic.com
If you are going to celebrate Valentine’s, I suggest you do it with a little forethought. I cringe every time I go to the grocery on February 13 or 14 and see dozens of men crowding around the greeting cards to buy their cards at the last possible moment.
Buy your card now and mail it out to Loveland, Colorado for extra special treatment. Your card will be postmarked LOVEland, Colorado and it will also be hand-stamped with a unique four line poem.
The Loveland Chamber of Commerce heads up this yearly romance project with cards going to all 50 states and over 100 foreign countries annually.
It’s simple. Just enclose your pre-addressed, pre-stamped Valentine’s card in a larger envelope and mail to: Postmaster, Attn: Valentines, Loveland CO 80537
You can also send it to postmasters of these cities too:
Valentine, Texas 79854
Valentine, Nebraska 69201
Kissimmee, Florida 32741
Loving, New Mexico 88256
Bridal Veil, Oregon 97010
Romance, Arkansas 72136
Monday, January 22, 2007
Close call
I think our guardian angels have been near and working hard lately. Our insurance was going to cancel Tom and I because our December payment (for January) was late. Unfortunately they don't give you any grace period at all. That sucks because the people who have that insurance are all low income and probably could use a few days' grace period every now and then. You'd think they'd make an exception at that time of year at least! I called the company to double check today and the first time I waited about 5 minutes, got a guy who asked me to wait, waited about 10 more minutes, and then he hung up on me! Nice! But I called back and this time got a woman who was nice enought to (all on her own) call their financial department and arrange for them to excuse the late payment and reinstate us both!! She said she could hear the stress in my voice and decided to help. I think that's the first nice thing I've EVER had happen from an insurance company!
(I will still be going on medical asst. but I still need the insurance until the application goes though!)
(I will still be going on medical asst. but I still need the insurance until the application goes though!)
Hee
It cracks me up that I've caught Tom watching the kid/teen tv show, That's So Raven, starring Raven Symone (the little girl Olivia from the Cosby show). And I'm not just talking about when Leanna is there so he's being forced to watch it. When I asked him about it he said, "What! It's a good show!"
Driving ability correlates with your zodiac sign?
According to this we shouldn't let Timothy drive, and my Mom and Sister should be awesome drivers?
Good Heart Health Habbits for kids
It's funny, they mention that adds aimed at heart health are designed for adults. But I can tell you that Leanna knows that Cheerios are supposed to be heart healthy, thanks to Cheerios commericials with kids encouraging their parents or grandparents to eat cheerios for their heart.
Many Parents Doubt their Discipline Methods
I'm guessing that incidents of yelling and spanking are severly under-reported.
Sunday, January 21, 2007
Baker Leanna
Baker Leanna made Blueberry muffins tonight that were so good we must have eaten half of them within 10 minutes! It looks like she may be as good at baking as she is at making messes!!
Foresters group
This weekend I talked with a non-profit insurance company rep again. It's a group my parents belong to and they offer social aspects as well as insurance, financial counseling, financial products, scholarships, etc. Even without being a member the rep. talked to me about the importance of having a will-especially as a parent. In PA law, if Tom and I would die, the kids would go into foster care until the courts decided who to give them to, even if family members were willing and able to take them in immediately. That's scary.
The rep. seems genuinely into her job, which I think is important. And I love that the organization's profits go to helping children instead of just to already wealthy shareholders. They partner with the Children's Miracle Network, Barnardo's Children's Charity and the assoc. of Children's Hospices, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, etc. They do things like having kids put together Easter baskets for local orphanages. I like that event like that would help reinforce values I'm trying to teach the kids. I have her card and I will definitely call her once we are completely on our feet again! I'm also glad that my parents are wise enough to plan financially, and to try to see to it that their children do also.
The rep. seems genuinely into her job, which I think is important. And I love that the organization's profits go to helping children instead of just to already wealthy shareholders. They partner with the Children's Miracle Network, Barnardo's Children's Charity and the assoc. of Children's Hospices, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, etc. They do things like having kids put together Easter baskets for local orphanages. I like that event like that would help reinforce values I'm trying to teach the kids. I have her card and I will definitely call her once we are completely on our feet again! I'm also glad that my parents are wise enough to plan financially, and to try to see to it that their children do also.
Crossing my fingers!
I don't want to jinx it or anything, but it's looking like we might be able to catch up financially. Not get ahead, mind you, just to catch up with paying bills currently due. That is a giant weight off me! I'm counting on money that should be coming within the week, so it's not actually here yet. In Tom's business you learn that dates are very flexible, so you can't count on getting money when you are supposed to. But it looks very likely, which makes me very very happy. I hate having debt hanging over my head! Cross your fingers for us as well!!
Heart meltingly cute
Out of nowhere Justin just told me, "Mommy, that was sweet of you to get me milk" with a giant smile on his face.
Friday, January 19, 2007
the kids are still making messes
A couple days ago we had one of those days. I was feeling lousy and it was one thing after another with the kids getting into things!
Here's a picture of Timothy after he got into a container of yogurt. Apparently he couldn't wait for me to open it and dug in himself. Luckily for me he had already spilled something on his shirt so at least that wasn't covered in yogurt too.
Then later at night while I was in the shower Justin and Timothy started to paint. Tom had left the paint bucket in the kitchen, covered with a plastic bag. One of the kids had dropped something in the paint and that made the plastic bag fall into the paint. Tom had to clean the kitchen floor and both boys. Justin unfortunately was wearing a new sweater, so Tom was scrubbing away at that, trying to get the paint off. It made me feel a little better because for once Tom got to see how easily they get into stuff. One minute they're nicely playing, the next, they're decorating your house with paint!
Helping out
Last night Leanna was supposed to be cleaning her room. She brought down a penny and told me she wanted me to have it. I asked her if she took it out of her piggy bank and she said yes. But she wanted me to have it because I didn't have any money.
Little pitchers have big ears, but little pitchers can be very very sweet.
Little pitchers have big ears, but little pitchers can be very very sweet.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Least favorite parts of being a parent
A blog post, it links to the comments, if the original post isn't there, just click on the homepage link. Katie's pregnant with her 4th child too.
I think my least favorite parts of parenting would have to be having no time for yourself (too busy taking care of everyone else): having your body become a jungle gym for little ones (sometimes I don't mind that but when it's constant it becomes tiresome!): being exhausted but having to get up anyway (to go make food, to go put someone back to sleep, etc.); the neverending supply of messes to clean; Not being able to go up or down steps without at least one child trailing me; guilt; endless worrying about food & nutrition; not being able to enjoy my own snacks/drinks unless they are healthy (then no one wants to share!); feeling judged; feeling judged by people who really aren't qualified to judge and feeling like I am doing it all alone.
Sometime when I have a quiet house I will post on all the perks (and despite what this post may make you think, there are many).
I think my least favorite parts of parenting would have to be having no time for yourself (too busy taking care of everyone else): having your body become a jungle gym for little ones (sometimes I don't mind that but when it's constant it becomes tiresome!): being exhausted but having to get up anyway (to go make food, to go put someone back to sleep, etc.); the neverending supply of messes to clean; Not being able to go up or down steps without at least one child trailing me; guilt; endless worrying about food & nutrition; not being able to enjoy my own snacks/drinks unless they are healthy (then no one wants to share!); feeling judged; feeling judged by people who really aren't qualified to judge and feeling like I am doing it all alone.
Sometime when I have a quiet house I will post on all the perks (and despite what this post may make you think, there are many).
Recipe Exchange
Jamie sent me a recipe exchange email, I thought I'd just post the recipe I sent here also.
Apple Bread -simple and good. Especially warm with butter!
Mix together:
1 cup oil
2 cups sugar
3 eggs beaten
1 tsp. vanilla
Add to Mix:
3 cups flour
1 tsp. cinnamin
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
Stir in 3 cups chopped apples
Fill loaf pans half full, use small loaf pans. Bake at 325 for 1 1/4 hour or until brown. Take immediately from pans. Wrap in foil, freeze extra at once. Makes 5 small loaves.
Apple Bread -simple and good. Especially warm with butter!
Mix together:
1 cup oil
2 cups sugar
3 eggs beaten
1 tsp. vanilla
Add to Mix:
3 cups flour
1 tsp. cinnamin
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
Stir in 3 cups chopped apples
Fill loaf pans half full, use small loaf pans. Bake at 325 for 1 1/4 hour or until brown. Take immediately from pans. Wrap in foil, freeze extra at once. Makes 5 small loaves.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Imagination
Leanna and Justin love to pretend that this extra mattress in the boys' room is a shower. They stand under the sheet and magically it becomes a shower. The mattress was left here from one of the many people who lived here before. We're not responsible for the stains on it!
dreams & instincts
Sunday night I had a baby dream. It was about two boys and I'm pretty sure one of them was Justin. I don't know if the other boy was Timothy or if it was the new baby or just a random baby. So I don't know if this is my gender prediction dream or not. My dreams correctly predicted Leanna and Justin's sex. With Timothy I had only one baby dream and it didn't reveal whether it was a boy or girl.
That was a very strange dream where I was in the hospital and a male doctor( I had female midwives in real life) was telling me my baby was dead. The baby was lying on a table and I knew, I just knew the baby was fine, I just had to get everyone to listen to me! I wonder if that wasn't foretelling the whole jaundice thing.
I knew Timothy was ok and that they were making a big deal of nothing. He was never actually very yellow, every medical person commented on that (except the very rude male doctor who acted as though we were abusive parents for wanting to take our child home early). He was actually very red, and the worry would be that the red blood cells could have suddenly broken down leaving too much bilerubin in his body which would make him turn very yellow all the sudden. I did my research (I love the internet!!) and realized that jaundice is a normal condition in a breastfed baby and the best way to get rid of it is to breastfeed as often as possible. So I stopped worrying so much and focused on what I should have been focusing on all along-feeding the baby and making him feel loved. A newborn baby doesn't need a mother full of worry and concern. Once I stopped worrying so much he actually did start eating more. The lesson I took from it was that I need to trust my instincts more. All women should. Science has taken that away from us. I'm not saying there are no benefits to modern science. I think it's wonderful as a backup. And in situations where things are not working as they should. But women should trust that their bodies can do what they are meant to do, and that we know our children best. Some people seem to be born knowing instinctively what to do, and others develop instincts later unless they stop paying attention because they are sure doctors and science know better.
(an example most women can relate to-doctors told women that sugar doesn't make kids act hyper. Yet most women found it did! Now they say it's sugar without fiber that makes kids go crazy. For example a peice of fruit has sugar, but the fiber makes the sugar be distributed more slowly in the kid's system. A candy bar means a sugar rush, leaving the body to crash after the sugar, hence the wild behavior from the child. And I think some children respond more than others to sugar (or other particular foods). Who are you going to listen to-the doctor or your own experience and observations which tell you every time your child eats that they go nuts?
I'm way off from where I started here, and I know I could have explained some of this better, but my time is always limmited, so I have to make due with a stream-of conscience writting. Sorry if I'm not very clear here!
That was a very strange dream where I was in the hospital and a male doctor( I had female midwives in real life) was telling me my baby was dead. The baby was lying on a table and I knew, I just knew the baby was fine, I just had to get everyone to listen to me! I wonder if that wasn't foretelling the whole jaundice thing.
I knew Timothy was ok and that they were making a big deal of nothing. He was never actually very yellow, every medical person commented on that (except the very rude male doctor who acted as though we were abusive parents for wanting to take our child home early). He was actually very red, and the worry would be that the red blood cells could have suddenly broken down leaving too much bilerubin in his body which would make him turn very yellow all the sudden. I did my research (I love the internet!!) and realized that jaundice is a normal condition in a breastfed baby and the best way to get rid of it is to breastfeed as often as possible. So I stopped worrying so much and focused on what I should have been focusing on all along-feeding the baby and making him feel loved. A newborn baby doesn't need a mother full of worry and concern. Once I stopped worrying so much he actually did start eating more. The lesson I took from it was that I need to trust my instincts more. All women should. Science has taken that away from us. I'm not saying there are no benefits to modern science. I think it's wonderful as a backup. And in situations where things are not working as they should. But women should trust that their bodies can do what they are meant to do, and that we know our children best. Some people seem to be born knowing instinctively what to do, and others develop instincts later unless they stop paying attention because they are sure doctors and science know better.
(an example most women can relate to-doctors told women that sugar doesn't make kids act hyper. Yet most women found it did! Now they say it's sugar without fiber that makes kids go crazy. For example a peice of fruit has sugar, but the fiber makes the sugar be distributed more slowly in the kid's system. A candy bar means a sugar rush, leaving the body to crash after the sugar, hence the wild behavior from the child. And I think some children respond more than others to sugar (or other particular foods). Who are you going to listen to-the doctor or your own experience and observations which tell you every time your child eats that they go nuts?
I'm way off from where I started here, and I know I could have explained some of this better, but my time is always limmited, so I have to make due with a stream-of conscience writting. Sorry if I'm not very clear here!
Sunday, January 14, 2007
One exception
One exception to the not craving snack-type stuff. I adore Hersheys Carmel kisses. I could sit and eat a whole bag of those, pregnant or not!
Cravings & food
Usually I'm big on snacking. I don't often eat a really big meal, I prefer smaller more frequent eating. With this pregnancy though I have to keep my belly full or I get sick. As in I feel really really nauseous. Just saying I feel nauseous doesn't really describe it though. That makes it sound like mild discomfort. This is to the point where I can't concentrate to do anything. What's strange is that I don't get hungry for things like chocolate or little snack things like I normally enjoy. When I'm hungry I want FOOD! I crave steak sandwhiches and cheeseburgers and hogies, things like that. I wonder if it actually makes me lose weight (or at least in my case not gain extra) because I'm not snacking on the junk like chocolate. All the nibbling might add up to more than the bigger more filling foods. It ought to be interesting to see how it works out. Though you have to keep in mind that no matter what I'm likely to be bigger after this baby and have more trouble losing the weight just because it is my 4th baby.
Batteries, of various sorts
The other day Justin was asking for batteries again. That's a fairly constant refrain in our house, as so many of kids' toys today require batteries. We didn't have any but I asked him what he wanted them for, since he sometimes asks for batteries when he can't get something to work. If he can't figure it out he assumes that it must need batteries.
He wanted batteries for the van. As I was telling him that the van doesn't use batteries I realized that actually Justin was correct! He must have overheard us talking about the van needing a new battery! I wanted to go out and get diapers, as much for a chance to get out of the house as to actually get the needed diapers. With the van not working I had to go walk later to get them. I guess Justin was looking forward to going out too though, as he thought he'd fix the problem on his own! (he'd just ask Mommy for batteries for the van!) He really is a sweet kid!
He wanted batteries for the van. As I was telling him that the van doesn't use batteries I realized that actually Justin was correct! He must have overheard us talking about the van needing a new battery! I wanted to go out and get diapers, as much for a chance to get out of the house as to actually get the needed diapers. With the van not working I had to go walk later to get them. I guess Justin was looking forward to going out too though, as he thought he'd fix the problem on his own! (he'd just ask Mommy for batteries for the van!) He really is a sweet kid!
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Poor kid!
The other night Justin told me he was hungry because he had a hard day. Then he added as explanation that he had took Leanna to school. (You know, that was his hard day. Taking Leanna to school).
Stroller rides are tough.
Stroller rides are tough.
Career Goals
On the way home from school today Leanna announced that she wants to be just like me when she grows up. And a singer. And a dancer. And like Grammy too, but not working.
LOL, I think she's heard Grammy complain about her job a lot! The singing and dancing stuff comes from Hannah Montanna, a Disney channel show about a girl who is secretly a rock star. It stars Billy Rae Cyrus (he sang Achy Breaky Heart)'s daughter. I think he might be in the show too, I'm not sure.
LOL, I think she's heard Grammy complain about her job a lot! The singing and dancing stuff comes from Hannah Montanna, a Disney channel show about a girl who is secretly a rock star. It stars Billy Rae Cyrus (he sang Achy Breaky Heart)'s daughter. I think he might be in the show too, I'm not sure.
Made me smile
Leanna told me that there is a boy named Anthony at school, just like Anthony from the Wiggles. I asked her if he looks like Anthony too. She replied, "No. He never wears a blue shirt."
over/under- parenting
Another link, I know. It's a little one though. A short article by a woman who thinks parents have been underparenting their babies and then overparenting their kids/teenagers. My kids are still little, but it seems about right from what I've observed.
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Insurance & pregnancy
The insurance program finally figured out that I'm pregnant and called to enroll me in their pregnancy program. So I asked about the pregnancy throwing me into medicaid (which it will) and she assured me that this time it won't kick me off insurance simply for becoming pregnant.
I'm in the Adultbasic program, and the first time I had enrolled, when I became pregnant with Justin they said I had to switch to medicaid because there are lower income requirements when you are pregnant. Then after I had the baby I was left with no insurance because once you're no longer pregnant, the income requirements for medicaid are higher. I was supposed to go back on my insurance afterwards, but for whatever reason it didn't work that way and I was put on the waiting list to get back on the insurance. The irony of it was that they kicked me off the adult basic program right before I was about to give birth, so the insurance lasted until the day after my due date. Medicaid started a month before I gave birth. So the adult basic program ended up paying for the birth anyway. The only thing medicaid paid for was my 6 week after birth checkup! And for that I lost my insurance!
So anyway, going on medicaid is actually a good thing for me. It means for the duration of the pregnancy I will have vision and dental, which I currently do not have. Right now I use Tom's contact supply because I"m out of mine and we don't have the money to replace them. They're a bit weak for me, but they work well enough. So this is really helpful for me to have. I can get eyeglasses with two ear peices! LOL, but really I'm looking forward to that.
It'll take a bit til I get the paperwork, fill it out, and it gets processed. But this time around the lady assured me I won't lose my insurance. The lady at county assistance knew nothing about holding my spot in adult basic, but I'll talk to the insurance about it again.
I'm in the Adultbasic program, and the first time I had enrolled, when I became pregnant with Justin they said I had to switch to medicaid because there are lower income requirements when you are pregnant. Then after I had the baby I was left with no insurance because once you're no longer pregnant, the income requirements for medicaid are higher. I was supposed to go back on my insurance afterwards, but for whatever reason it didn't work that way and I was put on the waiting list to get back on the insurance. The irony of it was that they kicked me off the adult basic program right before I was about to give birth, so the insurance lasted until the day after my due date. Medicaid started a month before I gave birth. So the adult basic program ended up paying for the birth anyway. The only thing medicaid paid for was my 6 week after birth checkup! And for that I lost my insurance!
So anyway, going on medicaid is actually a good thing for me. It means for the duration of the pregnancy I will have vision and dental, which I currently do not have. Right now I use Tom's contact supply because I"m out of mine and we don't have the money to replace them. They're a bit weak for me, but they work well enough. So this is really helpful for me to have. I can get eyeglasses with two ear peices! LOL, but really I'm looking forward to that.
It'll take a bit til I get the paperwork, fill it out, and it gets processed. But this time around the lady assured me I won't lose my insurance. The lady at county assistance knew nothing about holding my spot in adult basic, but I'll talk to the insurance about it again.
Lead levels
Lots of phone calls today! I found out that Justin's lead level is finally about where it should be! We had to recently re-test him because his last test came up an 11, and they want a child his age to be under 10 (He's now at 10).
Timothy, unfortunately is at 18. So in three months we have to re-test him to make sure the levels are going down. When the nurse told me I said, "That's high!" and she said, "yes, but at least it's not a 40 or more." I think Justin's levels were first tested at nine months I he was at a 19 and I remember the nurse being very concerned about it being that high. They sent a letter to the landlords about it and everything. Justin is at a different hospital/pediatrician than the other two though. Makes you wonder about what they must regularly see at Sacred Heart if a lead level that warrants concern at one hospital is nothing to them.
Timothy, unfortunately is at 18. So in three months we have to re-test him to make sure the levels are going down. When the nurse told me I said, "That's high!" and she said, "yes, but at least it's not a 40 or more." I think Justin's levels were first tested at nine months I he was at a 19 and I remember the nurse being very concerned about it being that high. They sent a letter to the landlords about it and everything. Justin is at a different hospital/pediatrician than the other two though. Makes you wonder about what they must regularly see at Sacred Heart if a lead level that warrants concern at one hospital is nothing to them.
Frozen embryo
A couple's frozen embryos that were rescued from thawing during hurricane Katrina are set to be the first birth from them. That kid will have an interesting baby book to read!
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
Experiment
We found out that suddenly no store sells colored tiles, or at least nothing beyond the staple white, beige, black stuff. They used to! I should know, as a contractor's wife I've spent more time than I care to in Home Depot and Lowe's. So Tom decided to try to dye the grout, with what we had onhand, kool-aide. So yup, that's pink lemonaide kool-aide grout. Looks like it won't work though because it cracked after it dried.
And the winner is......
And the winner for the most annoying Christmas present is.........Salt, Pepper, and Paprika (from Blue's Clues) who sing, "Healthy Snacks! Healthy Snacks! We love to eat those healthy snacks!" That song gets stuck in your head!
Anyone else ever get a really annoying gift (for them or their children)?
Anyone else ever get a really annoying gift (for them or their children)?
Discipline
An interesting post about a bad day with a two year old, and the comments people left are just as interesting if not more.
Sunday, January 07, 2007
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