Peace of Mine

Lent 2011

2011-03-09T11:58:00.005-05:00

Hello all! Long time, no blog, right?

Well, today I walked into my boss' office and she asked me what I was giving up for LENT. I was plainly honest and said, "I don't know." I actually have been thinking of it for some time now and for the past couple of years have opted to "do more" of something positive or something to promote my spirtural growth. One of things I always attempt to do is to pray more...have more conversations with God and strengthen my relationship with Him. I genuinely know that the events of my life and how they led me to where I am today were not by accident. I am truly blessed to be living the life I live and have an overwhelming need to be sure I give thanks.

Googling on the internet this morning, I came across this list on http://www.bustedhalo.com/ about other things to do for Lent besides "give up chocolate." http://www.bustedhalo.com/features/25-great-things-you-can-do-for-lent

In this Lenten season, let us reflect on the aspects in our lives that make us believers and remember to focus on the renewal of our spirits.

Happy New Year!

2011-01-10T11:14:00.006-05:00

2010 In Photos...

Can You Believe? Alexander is 3!

2010-09-21T15:25:00.006-05:00

My Sweet Boy is Growing up Fast...

Alexander's 3 Year Stats - 31.25lbs and 36 inches tall

He has totally started coming out of his shell. Although he is still pretty shy around new people, he has been talking much more...in complete sentences...since the summer.

Alexander is a great big brother and genuinely a delight.

It's Official, I'm a P90X Grad!

2010-08-08T21:22:00.006-05:00

So, I finished P90X. It was great! So amazed that I was able to stick to it... And I lost all of the baby weight!

At 90 Days: (August 1, 2010)I have lost a total of 18 lbs. 5 inches off my hips, 3 inches off the chest and 4.5 inches off my waist. There actually isn't much difference between 60 and 90 days. But, I think the extra inch in my waist is a little noticeable. Either way, I feel great and am really proud of myself!!!

At 60 Days: (July 2, 2010)I have lost a total of 13 lbs. 5 inches off my hips, 3 inches off the chest and 3.5 inches off my waist.

The best advice I can give if you're really trying to transform your body and/or lose weight is to be sure to follow the nutrition suggestions/meal plans and the tracks explicitly! I know a lot of people who JUST follow the workouts...others who randomly do the workouts. Seriously, you are not going to look like the folks in the infomercials unless you do what Tony Horton tells you! (Heck, I don't even, because I didn't follow the nutrition guide to the letter.) Regardless, the point is, it will work.

Another thing is that it really isn't for everybody. I honestly wouldn't recommend this to anyone who is not already working out/in some kind of decent shape. Not that it's impossible to do, but I think to see results will take a little longer. The best part of the program is that you "Do your best and forget the rest." So, most of the workouts are designed for you to do as much as/as hard as you can and TAKE BREAKS if you need to take them. Not everyone can get through the workouts. I had been working out on my own since November '09 and was in fairly good shape and it took me a week to get through some of the routines without feeling like I was going to die. The ab workout took me 10 times to do it before I could finish without taking a break. So, I'd imagine it would take a novice even longer to get through some of them...and by the time that happens you're already at 30 days.

I plan on moving on to something different and coming back to P90X next spring and following the Classic Track. My husband is following the New Rules of Lifting by Lou Schuler and is looking phenomenal. I'm going to get the New Rules of Lifting for Women and see how much stronger I can get.

Thanks, Tony Horton, for an amazing plan and getting me back into shape FAST. :)

R.I.P. Uncle Bill

2010-06-24T11:57:00.006-05:00

On June 15, 2010 the world became a little less sweeter place. My Uncle Bill passed away after a long struggle with illness.

Moses Locatee Moody, III (Bill)
September 6, 1952 - June 15, 2010

I suppose my deepest regret was that I did not know him better and we lived 2 hours away! What's that about. My fondest memories of him are all of his humor, wit and generosity. Uncle Bill would always send us cards on our birthdays and Christmas and address them as "Master" or "Madame." We always looked forward to those letters... And the visits! They were as random as they come, but welcoming, just the same. Literally, we would find out he was coming within a hour before him showing up at the doorstep. My cousin Colleen could attest...she said he'd even do that when visiting Lynchburg. He always had great stories from their childhood and from present day. I loved listening to him talk. Pretty sad that he was always the one that had to take that initiative...

The funeral was hard. So much harder than I had imagined. All of the memories and regrets of time lost came flooding over me all at once. Particularly when reading this poem my sister wrote:

Why cakes don’t fall (In Tribute to my Uncle Bill) 06/17/10

Eggs, water, oil, and a simple cake mix. Time, patience, care and a little love; memories stirred and memories bound. It is forever these moments that will cake my mind like batter coating a pan.

Warmest on a cold blustery day, come birthdays and such, when being called madam or master was such a treat. A card had come addressed just to me, like I was so special, like I was being honored.

A tear slides down my cheek.

His smiles always lit up a room, with a careless wit that was somehow flippant at times but was always genuine.

And there sits my cake, mixed and poured, filling the pan, it has bubbles. So as I have been taught, and as my mother was taught by her baby brother, I gently tap, tap, and tap, till the bubbles rise to the surface.

My heart begins to ache for all the missed moments.

As the bubbles rise I realize that, his face has come to mind, his smile, his mannerisms, and his rough laughter.

His hugs, those were so warm even though, he was always so thin. Yet he could wrap you in care with one of those hugs no matter how many years it had been.

I wipe cascading tears with the palms of my hands

The bubbles have dissipated and the cake is oven ready, my tears have mixed with the batter but I don’t want to discard the cake. I wait while I watch stories and memories that float past my mind’s eye.

I watched him from a distance, so strong, confident, such a caring father, devoted son.

As the cake slides from the oven, perfect, as it has been so many times before. A glossy surface, perfectly springing back.

I watch the cake. Wanting all the memories that flood me, knowing how I’ll miss the hugs, the crossed leg, how wise a face he had. All the things he’d seen, experienced, loved, know, carved into that face.

I think the cake has captured me, twenty minutes has gone by and I have not moved. And as that perfect cake lay upon the counter, I know that every cake will have a piece of him in it for the rest of my life.

The tears have stopped but the ache remains.

~Candace Yvette Johnson-Hardy

We love you Uncle Bill. Thank you for always keeping in touch...thank you for always making us smile. You are dearly missed.

P90X - DAY 30!

2010-06-02T10:41:00.005-05:00

So today marks the 30th day of my P90X adventure. I am so proud of myself!

I have lost 9lbs and dropped 2 pants sizes. 3.5 inches off my hips, 1 inch off the chest and 2.5 inches off my waist.

The first workout, Core Synergistics, about kicked my butt... I seriously thought I was going to die. When I was done, I was lying on the ground, breathing hard, barely able to move, thinking, "I thought I was in better shape than this...Leonard is going to find me passed out on the floor here in a moment..." LOL But, honestly, the hardest part for me so far is the TIME it takes from my life. I lose close to 2 hours of my night (yes working out after the kids go to bed) doing the DVD and showering...and some times can't go right to sleep. I guess I most proud of my dedication to pressing play every day. That's seriously the key, making sure you press play.

Here is the serious of workouts I just completed with the Phase 1, following the Lean track:

Phase 1 Lean - Weeks 1, 2, and 3

Day 1 – Core Synergistics
Day 2 – Cardio X
Day 3 – Shoulders and Arms, Ab Ripper X
Day 4 – Yoga X
Day 5 – Legs and Back, Ab Ripper X
Day 6 – Kenpo X
Day 7 – Rest or X Stretch

Phase 1 Lean - P90x Workout Week 4 Recovery Week to Rest the Muscles Some

Day 1 – Yoga X
Day 2 – Core Synergistics
Day 3 – Kenpo X
Day 4 – X Stretch
Day 5 – Cardio X
Day 6 – Yoga X
Day 7 – Rest or X Stretch

My Cousin's Recent Art Show...

2010-05-03T09:44:00.003-05:00

So my cousin, Sean, is an AMAZING artist out in the Seattle area. I swear I'm going to get out there to see one his shows one day. This was the most recent. Found this really cool article linked from the gallery's site. Thought I would share... If you are ever in the area, seriously, check him out. Some really good stuff...

Sean M. Johnson - object ballet as memory - Another Bouncing Ball

Posted using ShareThis

"Lia is 1"...says the Easter Bunny

2010-04-07T15:58:00.007-05:00

Happy Birthday, Lia! My sweet girl turned 1 on the 3rd of April...the day before Easter.

At her year appointment she weighed in at 21lbs 2oz and 28.75 inches tall. As always, Lia is a happy baby. She quit nursing around St. Patrick's Day... Yep, just up and quit. So no weaning for her...it was I who needed some time to adjust. It was good because that was shortly after the teeth started coming in. ;) Lia has 2 on the bottom, so far. She's still eating her homemade purees and drinking soy milk and formula. (Yes, she's still allergic to milk.) So far her vocabulary consists of "Mama," "Hi," "Bye,' "Uh-Oh," "Dog", "Duck" and the occassional, "Dada.' She can sign "Milk" and "Eat." I've even heard Milk come out her mouth once, too. lol And according to Mary Ann and Gene (the baby-sitters) she has said, "Mary Ann," "Bella" and "Alexander." Lia is really fascinated with reflections and images of herself... If you walk by a mirror, (or a picture of herself) she'll say, "Hiiiiiiii!" As far as motor skills...she's really good at putting things into other things and taking them out. She even put the lid on her milk bottle the other day. Mary Ann just taught the girls how to blow kisses as well. (It's really cute.) She's been crawling since 9 months and pulling herself to standing since a little after 10 months. Lia is nearly walking and can stand on her own effortlessly...she even can sway her hips while standing when music is playing! Right now, she's crusing on everything and broke her 3-step max record the other day...taking 4 steps on her own.

We had a small party for her on Saturday and Alexander helped me make her Bunny Cake and Color Eggs the night before. We even did a mini Easter-Egg Hunt...it was a blast!:

And we can't forget my sweet Alexander... :D
Alexander hit is 2.5 year mark on March 18th. He's become such a BIG BOY. At his appointment he was 28 lbs and 33 inches tall. (Yes, Lia will be catching him in no time... lol) Alexander's vocabulary continues to grow each day and he forms more and more sentences. Just the other day he asked me what I was doing...in a whole phrase, "What are you doing, Mommy?" It's crazy to think that 18 months ago he was like Lia. :) His "Aww Man," "Awwwww" and "Oh, OKkkkkk..." responses when he's just settling for your terms are comical. He continues to be a good big brother. He can help me feed Lia with very little mess and is really quite helpful. However, the fights have begun! The two of them can be seen pulling on toys and I've even seen them hit each other. I didn't think it would be so soon... Really need to start potty training...but he's still not quite ready. (Diapers still pretty wet over night, etc.) We'll see... Alexander has been becoming more independent too. He has mastered putting in DVDs, feeding himself and tries more and more each day to dress himself...putting on shoes, jackets, etc.

We spent a wonderful time in Lisbon for Easter and were able to get this cool "family picture". :)

I am truly in love with my family!

"NO PANE! NO PANE!"

2010-04-07T15:57:00.009-05:00

This is the story of the worst traveling experience ever! Through this we have decided that we will NEVER fly with our children under any circumstances...

We were slated to travel to Mississippi for my dear friend, Annette's wedding. We opted to fly instead of drive as we didn't believe our 11 month-old and 2 1/2 year old would fend well in the car (or even us for that matter...) What a bad decision that turned out to be...

The first trip, we (Leonard) forgot the garmet bag with my bridesmaid's dress and Alexander's tuxedo in it. So we missed our flight and couldn't get out again 'til the next day... We were charged about $250/seat to change our flight from Friday and Saturday. Worst part was, Alexander didn't have a seat anyway! It was overbooked and had Leonard magically found the garmet bag when he went back to the car, he would've had to sit on one of our laps ANYWAY!!! >:| This caused us to miss the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner. :( The next flight went as expected, and the children actually did very well in the airport and on the plane. However, aiport transistions were hindered by the fact that we were basically carrying both children with our carry-ons as we opted to not take our stroller. (another fatal mistake.) Once we arrived in Jackson and got our rental and headed to our hotel in Forest, MS. (Now the wedding was actually in the small town of Louin, about 45 minutes from Forest...and Forest was about an hour from Jackson.) We had to drive to the church straight from the airport in order to make it in time for the wedding. And guess what? We got lost getting there (tried putting the address into 3 different GPS systems and they all took us to the same WRONG address.) We eventually got there, because my brother (who was singing in the wedding) found someone to get us...only to find out that we were 3 minutes away. :( ((takes breath))

Alexander, who was the ring bearer, and I quickly were brought up to speed on our roles and everyone got dressed quickly. The wedding went on...without a hitch.

On the way back, when we got to the airport at 5am and we were told that we had unconfirmed seats onto our connecting flight to Columbus and there were no other flights available on any airlines to get us home on Sunday. Seriously? Apparently, (which I find out much later,) when we missed our flight and had to change from the Friday to the Saturday,it cancelled our reservations?! The only way home THAT DAY was to fly into Dayton, arriving 12 hours later. Luckily, my brother was in the airport with us at 5am and was able to get on his flight back home....so we decided to give him the keys to our truck and some cash to get it out of long term parking...and come to Dayton to pick us up...at 6pm. He made it to Columbus by 11am. We missed our flight into Dallas, so we spent 2 hours in the Jackson airport that morning and then another 6 in Dallas once we arrived. I had little food and milk for Lia as I packed it all in the check-in luggage and it was struggle to get through the day. We were blessed to find a "play area" in the Dallas airport that we hung out in most of our layover. By the time we boarded the last flight all you could hear from Alexander was, "No Pane, No Pane..." We laughed, but totally felt his pain...

We flew into Dayton at 6:30pm and by the time we drove back to Colmubus and dropped off my brother, we walked into our house 9pm.

Airlines are horrible. Overbooking flights, left and right and charging people an arm and leg to reschedule and unable to offer you anything in way of compensation for your hardship. I tried...called all the airlines involved and Orbitz and everyone was blaming everyone else. I just gave up...

Offically boycotting air transporation unless it's for business and someone else is paying.

Here are a few shots from the airport adventure...

Winter 2010...Where has the time gone?

2010-02-06T10:04:00.012-05:00

It's Winter 2010. Seriously, where has the time gone? I feel like I just had Lia and she will be a year old before we know it.

Here's a brief update on Lia's 9 month stats:

19lbs 2oz and 27" tall

In addition to pulling up to standing and crawling, Lia has learned how to wave, (a skill I'm certain she picked up from her cousin Bella :)) and give kisses. She's still working on saying Da Da, (it slips every now and then, but never intentional,) but still continues to say Ma Ma. I'm still making Lia's baby food and she's now eating pretty much everything and is really good at letting you know what she doesn't like. Have yet to do eggs... Will try in a few months.

Our little girl is already out-doing her big-brother. (Must be a girl thing...) To compare:

Alexander at 9 months:

17lbs 5oz, 26.5" long
Didn't pull himself up until nearly 12 months
Didn't crawl until 13 months...

And as you've seen in the previous post, my son is doing quite well with the "Your Baby Can Read" program. I think it's helping him with his vocabulary as well. If only we can wean him off that dang pacifier...

I'm so proud of my little munchkins!

Here's a recent pic of the kids with their Daddy. Couldn't get all 3 to look at me at once, but 2 out of 3 will do:

The weather has taken a turn for the worst. It's been quite snowy these days and the foreseeable future does not show any signs of letting up. And when I say "snowy" we're talking about 6-8 inches a couple of days ago. "Fun to look at/play in...not fun when you have to work..." It will be interesting to see how it turns out.

And sadly, Leonard's Grandfather passed away a couple of weeks ago. We attended his funeral on Sunday, January 24th. Dan wrote a beautiful "eulogy"...and I say it in quotes, because it was more so a narrative a his great life. It was so touching that it made me feel cheated that I didn't have a chance to meet him before his stroke. The blessing that was before us was that he was finally able to be with his beloved Jane (Leonard's Grandmother who passed in 2003.) R.I.P. Samuel Campanelli...

(Most Recent Professional Photo of Sam)
(Sam and Jane on their wedding day...)

Crawling, Standing, and Reading...Oh,My!

2010-01-17T00:04:00.005-05:00

It's the New Year already! 2010. I can't believe it...

So here a couple of pictures and videos of the kiddies showcasing their milestones. Alexander has been doing the "Your Baby Can Read" series at the sitter's and Lia has just pulled herself to standing...shortly after figuring out how to crawl. They are growing up so fast...

Nearly Christmas...

2009-12-17T11:27:00.005-05:00

So it's nearly Christmas and I missed posting about Halloween and Thanskgiving. Rather than type anything I'll let the photos speak for themselves... :D

My baby girl is 6 months-old...

2009-10-10T06:36:00.005-05:00

At her 6 month well-check she weighed in at 17lbs 5 oz and 26" long. (Just to throw in a comparison...@ 12 months Alexander was 27" long.) She is pretty much in the 75% for both. Doing very well. Lia is growing up fast! She has the most cheerful personality and rarely lets things upset her...finding comfort in her thumb when things get "too much" for her. Alexander is really good at keeping her entertained so it seems as if she is laughing all of them time. Lia started eating cereal around 5 months and does really well with that. We just started her on other baby foods this week. Once we get past the "testing for allergies" stage, we will make her food as we did Alexander's...in the food processor. Speaking of allergies...we did discover that she is allergic to milk. But, it is a seriously mild allergy. We gave her some Enfamil (milk based forumla) mixed in with he cereal and her face broke out. Other than that, she had no other adverse reactions. So, we'll be staying away from that until she's about a year and try it again. Lia has rolled over once, (although nearly rolls over attempting to reach for things often) yet continues to end up in different directions in her crib at night. She is, however, sitting on her own. A feat she achieved just this past Sunday. Physically, she appears to be advancing faster than Alexander and soon will be crawling. (From a sitting position she reaches for things in front of her, ends up on her tummy and ultimately winds up kicking her feet to try to go...) I fear teeth are not far behind. And I even believe her first 2-syallable word will be coming soon...(trying to get the "Mama" thing in her head...) lol

Alexander is 2!

2009-09-20T20:20:00.004-05:00

It's really hard to believe that it's been 2 years since we were blessed with our dear Alexander. Unfortunately, I wasn't around on his birthday (9/18) because I had rehearsal for the play I'm doing that opens up next weekend, Fuddy Meers, but I made a video message for him to watch when he got home. Needless to say, I will make sure that doesn't happen again. We are having a family (and very close friends) party for him next weekend.

Alexander has grown a lot in 2 years. At his 2-yr well-check he was weighing in at 25 1/4 lbs. and measuring to 32 3/4" tall. He has moved into the 25%! The pediatrician said he has a perfect BMI for a toddler... :D The boy is definitely growing. It's so cool to see the things he used to be able to walk under and can no longer. He climbs into the truck with ease now as well as onto our bed. Alexander can walk up and down stairs like a big boy... He actually came up without anyone behind him, as I looked on from the top, busy with Lia. (He got tired of waiting for his Dad, and even asked me if he could come up before he did on his own.) He has become a little man, that's for sure... And he's an excellent big brother! He loves Lia so much and is quite protective. Mary Ann, the sitter, says he will barely let anyone touch her...shielding her saying "MINE!" Speaking of "saying" his vocabulary is quite extensive, although we only get 2 to 3 word sentences...mostly all begining with, "No..." lol And I'm sad to report that I child is suffering from the "Terrible Twos." It's almost unbearable at times. BIG tantrums over the silliest, smallest things. Leonard and I have learned to just ignore him and then he gets himself together...distracted by something else. If it gets too bad he, of course, gets threatened (or "corrected") with the spoon. Despite the tantrums, he's a pretty good boy and listens and follows complex directions quite well for a boy his age. Alexander loves animals and knows his shapes (even the "more difficult" ones.) They work on the alaphabet and other sing-a-long songs at the sitter's. His latest infactuation is with dinosaurs and is currently obsessed with Land Before Time. He's going to be a "Sharp Tooth" for Halloween. ;)

Happy, Happy Birthday to my Sweet, Little Boy.

4 months and the Zoo...

2009-08-08T15:11:00.006-05:00

Lia's 4 month stas:

15lbs 13oz (90%)
25" long (85%)
16.75" head circum

Lia has been working on her abs by doing mini "sit-ups" since she was about 2 months old... lol She will be sitting on her own here really soon and the doctor already cleared her to eat rice cereal...but also said she didn't need it yet. (So I'm going to wait another month...feeding solid food takes so much work! lol) We'll have a "Lia Eats Green Beans" video before we know it. ;) No teeth yet...but she's gearing up for it..much drooling...and we definitely have a thumb sucker.

Lia talks all of the time. She's actually started to kind of "growl" when she babbles...very good at playing with her voice. Lia just started to reach for things, unlike Alexander who was reaching for toys when he was 2 months old, but remains quite aware of everything around her.

Lia is a really happy baby and very content. She even has been sleeping through the night, in her crib, for about a month now. (Alexander didn't start sleeping in his crib until 12 months...and then he just started sleeping through the night 4 months ago....................)

We took the kids to the zoo a couple of weeks ago. Alexander LOVED it. His favorite part was actually the aquarium. Other than that, the elephant is his favorite animal. We will return again soon, when it's not so hot. Nina, from the PBS Sprout "Good Night Show" was there, too. So we got to listen to her and got a few pics too. It actually was a really good day!

Here is a video of Lia "talking" at the zoo.

3 months and July 4th

2009-07-08T21:38:00.008-05:00

My baby girl just recently weighed in at 15lbs! I can't believe it. I remember thinking that 15lbs was A LOT for a 3 month-old to weigh. And lo and behold... LOL

Lia is 15lbs 2oz (95%), 24" long (75%) and has a 16" head circumference.

Lia is a really big girl...Pretty much trying to sit up by herself every day. Extremely happy baby...always smiling and nearly laughing. And she sleeps through the night!

We couldn't be more blessed!

My niece and nephew are in town for the summer (my sister is soon to follow) so we took them to our buddies' house for a bonfire the night before July 4th. As always, it was a great time spent with friends. It was actually the first bonfire Marcel and Tatyanna had been to...and they had a blast making hotdogs, etc.

Baptism on Father's Day

2009-06-21T22:06:00.008-05:00

Lia and Isabella, (our niece, by way of Leonard's brother Jeff,) were baptized today. The Baptism was beautiful and it was a beautiful day. It was pretty neat that they got baptized on Father's Day too.

However, wanted to focus this post on Leonard. He is an AMAZING father! Some times I sit and stare at him playing with Alexander and just smiling, "Thinking to myself, how did I get so blessed?" He's really good with Lia, too. Although you can tell she's going to be a "Daddy's girl." He's already starting to treat her differently. LOL

This one is for you, baby! Thanks for being such a wonderful father. I love you!!!!

Working Mother

2009-06-12T04:59:00.004-05:00

I returned to work on Monday, June 1st. It's been a rough 2 weeks. I had to work the first Saturday I got back because of a massive restack of cubicles...(over 350 people moved) and I was responsible for connecting the phones. There were 2 other people doing the phones...well, 1 and a half...the half was a guy who was covering for me when I was out, so there was some things he couldn't do.

It's a different world...working with 2 children under 2. I suppose it will take some work getting used to it. All I know is I am exhausted.

When I come home for work, I'm literally standing for another hour trying to wash and sterilze bottles and my materials to my pump. Then I try to feed myself before feeding Lia, all while I make sure I spend some time with Alexander...and Leonard. Before I go to sleep, I have to pack everything for the next day because doing it in the morning is damn near impossible. That takes another hour and half. I beat myself up even more in the mornings because after I get the 3 of us ready, by myself, (necessary to avoid arguments with the DH,) pack the car and drop them off at the sitter's, I head to the gym for about 45 minutes before work. And then the cycle continues...

The good thing is, Lia is starting to sleep through the night and she is still pretty easy going. I think she's going to be able to start sleeping in her crib next week. Alexander was sleeping on/with me for months...and later in the pack n' play in our room before he started sleeping in his crib by about 12 months. This is a big relief for me, eventhough she gets up at least once, I still get to lay down in my bed. A good night's sleep makes all the difference to my days...

I can't sit here and complain too much, though... I know there are many mothers who do this by themselves. I have no idea how... I would go insane.

Although it's a little easier than I thought it would be, it's still pretty difficult working with 2 under 2. I plan to become a pro. :)

Alexander's New Moves

2009-06-12T04:57:00.001-05:00

This is some good stuff...

Bubbles Anyone?

2009-05-29T13:27:00.006-05:00

For the past 2 days, I have been home without children. These are my last 2 days of Maternity Leave. I'd have to admit, it's pretty nice being alone. Yesterday, I really didn't take advantage... I cleaned house and went to the gym and before I knew it, it was time to pick them up. Today, I decided it was going to be about me. Other than getting the oil changed, I didn't do any errands nor housework. I took a nap, surfed the web, watched TV and mostly importantly, I took a bubble bath for the first time ever in our jacuzzi tub. We have lived here for 14 months and have never used the tub. Such a shame! For the most part, it was a really relaxing experience...

I just totally overdid it on the bubbles. It was something straight out of a sitcom! I wasn't sure how much was enough, as the stream of water as the tub was filling didn't produce many bubbles, so I just kept adding more. Well, once I turned on the jets, the bubbles appeared. There I was, lying in the tub and the bubbles were rising above my head. I laughed out loud at the sight. While still in the tub, I pulled the stopper on the drain and added water to try to make them subside. It was truly comical. Here is a picture taken AFTER I got out of the tub:

I will defintely be trying this again in the near future. Some times we just need to take time for the bubbles.

8 weeks

2009-05-29T11:54:00.004-05:00

Lia is 8 weeks today. We go for her 2 month well-check next Friday. It's really amazing how fast it all goes by. I remember how fast it was with Alexander, and just as soemeone told me, it is faster with the second. Lia is already smiling, coos and gurgles often, has been holding her head up with ease for weeks and is growing into a BIG, healthy baby. She has grown out of all of her 0-3 month clothing and is now wearing 3-6 month and 6 months clothes.

She went to the babysitter for the first time yesterday, for a trial run. Other than not taking too well to the bottle, she did pretty well.

I go back to work on Monday. And for as much as I simply adore my beautiful baby girl, I welcome the break from the constant care. Sure wish there was another alternative to working, though...

2nd Wedding Anniversary

2009-05-26T21:08:00.009-05:00

Today is our 2nd wedding anniversary. We celebrated by staying at the Hyatt, (where we stayed on our wedding night,) on Sunday night. We wanted to go to "our" cabin at Hocking Hills, but we would've had to stay more than 1 night...and that just wasn't possible this year.

We began our night with dinner and drinks with really good friends, Julie and Kim. Upon reflection, we realized it was quite fitting as they were instrumental in making our wedding day success with all of their advice, support and assistance in many matters of the event. We met up at Brio and were greeted with a really good bottle of Pinot Noir, courtesy of Julie. Leonard and I ordered food...as Julie and Kim already had dinner and were simply there for good company. The food was great and we had another bottle of wine and some good convo with our friends.

From there went to the Hyatt, where we got a room for the night and checked in before dinner. There is a Sports Bar on the ground level, where we played a couple of games of pool and drank a couple of Jack and Cokes. We actually had another bottle of wine in the room, given to us by very dear friends. We decided to open that up and we drank and sat out on the patio outside of the sports bar and reflected on how wonderful our life is. A lot has happened in the past 2 years. Not to long after the wedding Alexander arrived, then I bought my truck, next came the house, I left my job of nearly 12 years and most recently, the addition of Lia. Kind of surreal... But, any way you look at it, it's a wonderful life.

The night was amazing. Very relaxing and comfortable. The next morning, Leonard missed the children so, that it was decided we would check out and get them. I, on the other hand, was not ready to go home. I wanted a few more hours alone. Nothing I said could convince him otherwise. As he so matter-of-factly put it, "we are just prolonging the inevitable." We were home by 12:30pm.

Another anniversary in the history books. Can't wait to be blogging about many, many more!

First Smiles

2009-05-25T15:00:00.004-05:00

So Lia is now 7 weeks old. Time has flown.

Yesterday morning I got 2 consecutive smiles from her, within a minute of each other. Alexander didn't have a genuine, "non-gas provoked" smile until he was about 3 months.

All I had to say in my high-pitched voice was:

"Hi Pretty Girl!"

Be a BEE!

2009-05-15T16:45:00.001-05:00

Alexander with one of the Bees we used for Lia's room... Leonard was chasing him, like a bee, and then we asked him to be a bee...

Fatherhood...

2009-05-15T09:00:00.005-05:00

This is a commercial from fatherhood.gov. First time I saw this I instantly thought "This is Leonard in about 5 years..." Too funny!

Leonard is a wonderful daddy! If you had asked me 6 or so years ago when I met him if he had this kind of potential, I would have never believed it.

Mother's Day 2009

2009-05-11T08:52:00.005-05:00

My 2nd Mother's Day, now down in the history books. (Didn't really forsee having 2 children by now, though. CRAZY.) It was a pretty good day. I went to mass with Lia, my mother and brother... Then to the movies later with my mom and brother to see Star Trek while Leonard kept the children. (First time I had been out without either of them in 5 weeks.) It was so nice! Leonard bought me a new camera (since mine accidentally got destroyed by Alexander in Leonard's plain sight only the day before) and the DVD set of Season 1 of Angel. (I just recently got into it since I've been on ML.)

Interestingly enough, I spoke with a friend, who is a mother, and asked how her day was and she simply replied, "It's just another day." As a new mother, it's still pretty cool to be told how much you are appreciated. I hope when I've been a mother for more than 15 years that I don't feel that way.

My sister poated this comment on my MySpace page, I thought it was pretty neat:

95 Percentile!

2009-05-07T10:41:00.004-05:00

Believe it or not, it's been a month since Lia entered the world. At her 4 week well-check we discovered she is in the 95th percentile for weight, weighing in at 11 lbs. 3 oz. Lia gained 4 lbs. in a month! I never thought I would hear ninety-something percentile and my children's names in the same sentence. lol It's crazy. She is 21.5 inches long, placing her in the 55th percentile and her head circumference is 14 and 7/8. (not sure what %.)

Lia is just as "alert" as Alexander was, but is noticeably much stronger. She already supports her head effortlessly, quite often, and also tries to pull her head up when lying in the Boppy. She is following figures as they go by and doesn't appear to mind being on her tummy yet.

Needles to say, she is a blessing and a great addition to the family!

Mother of Two Under 2...

2009-04-27T07:11:00.004-05:00

This past Thursday I had both Alexander and Lia home with me...all day, all by myself. It was easier than I thought it would be, but still pretty darn difficult. Alexander was actually pretty good and very helpful. But, it seemed my biggest problem was how sleepy I was during the day. Normally, when Lia sleeps...we kind of nap together. That wasn't the case. And the two didn't sleep at the same time. I was fighting sleep all day.

Here is a glimpse into my day... For the sake of time, I will only tell you about the morning. The first and most challenging task would have been to make sure we were all downstairs as I would not be able to carry them both down the steps together. Leonard actually helped me get them and all of our "stuff" down before he left for the day. Once downstairs, it was time for Alexander to eat. So on goes Blues Clues and Lia into her swing. After feeding Alexander his oatmeal...it was time to change Lia and feed her, (of which she did not quietly inform me.) By this time, Sesame Street was on and Alexander sat on the couch like a good boy and watched while I tended to Lia. Lia fell asleep while eating, but she woke up as I burped her. Time for Alexander's nap! He went down like a good boy but Lia stayed awake. Happily swinging in her swing, I managed to straighten up all of the toys and do the dishes...oh and fixed myself something to eat. At this point it was about 11am. Halfway there...

Needless to say, it was a chore, but we all survived. I am quite proud of myself, and I can truly say I know what it means to be the mother of 2 under 2.

Alexander's Latest YouTube Vids

2009-04-18T09:57:00.002-05:00

So Alexander has been doing some pretty cool stuff lately. Leonard is determined to have him be some sort of athelete. Right now, they have been practicing throwing the football. Alexander is pretty good! He usually catches the ball 1 out of 2 times. Most 18 month-olds shouldn't be able to do that... It's so funny, he catch a football, but only has 4 teeth. What's up with that?

There are 2 different videos... I ran out of memory on one of the cards and quickly switche it out.

Also, here is my baby with his Sing-A-Long book. I was in the bed (shortly after I got home from having Lia) and had to capture him on film. He really had me smiling that day.

Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T20:01:00.011-05:00

It's Easter already!!!

Lia is now a week and 1 day old. She is such a beautiful little girl... At times, it tickles me that we created such beautiful children.

Alexander has adjusted really well to his baby sister.
He is a big helper...following most instruction to the letter.

Leonard has been AMAZING. I am impressed how he has been holding everything together and taking care of all of us so fantastically. I'm really glad he has another week off and will miss him when he goes back to work.

It was also really nice having my sister here for the delivery this time. She was really helpful with Alexander and assisting Leonard with my care (meals, meds, etc.) after the surgery.

Surprisingly, I am still in a lot of pain. I honestly don't remember being in this much pain...this long after Alexander's birth. Maybe it was because I was preparing myself to be at home on my own. (Leonard only had a week off last time, and I was in the hospital that entire week.) But, I took my last Percocet this morning and am out of prescription Ibuprofen... I have no refills on the percocet. (not sure why) and the pharmacy is closed today. Luckily I found a bottle of Motrin that is the same mg as the script...so I should be fine.

Other than that, everything is WONDERFUL. I am so pleased with my new family structure. It's kind of like how most dream their lives would be when they became an adult: "Married with children, 1 boy and 1 girl, and a dog." How cool is that???

"Hanging in there..."

2009-03-19T07:23:00.004-05:00

That seems to be my response every time someone asks me how I am doing... At this point, it's the best I can do. You can read details of my pregnancy here:

Latest Pregnancy Blog Entry

Lia's c-section is scheduled for the 3rd of April. My last day of work is the 27th of March. It can't come soon enough! Going to work has literally become a pain.

On the brighter side of things... We finished painting Lia's walls... We just need to get some furniture. My good friends through me a "girl's night" (shower) and we got some really nice clothes for Lia. My friend, Sarah, did an AMAZING job on the cake, too.

Here are some pictures of her walls and the cake.

And not to forget about my baby! Alexander learned that he can dance on the floor the other day. It was so funny...(hence the constant giggling from me on the video.)I'm telling you, the kid is going to be a dancer! :)

Until the 3rd, I'll be hanging in there...

Valentine's Day Already?

2009-02-14T12:14:00.004-05:00

I can't believe it's Valentine's Day already... Leonard and I decided not to "formerly" celebrate as we are too busy, too tired, and we know how much we love each other. However, to my surprise, I got a card from Alexander and one from Leonard, as well as my overdue Christmas ornament. I was actually quite tickled because I wasn't expecting anything... :)

So yesterday I had a 3rd ultrasound! My OB ordered one to do a growth scan because I was measuring on the big side. Turns out, Lia is about a week and a half bigger than expected. I know she is much bigger than Alexander was at this point.

Here is a link to my latest entry of my pregnancy blog...

32 weeks 5 days

She is really going to be here before we know it...

And not to forget my first born... Here is a video of him captured by my friend, Julie, on her cell phone. This is what happens when your husband decides to let you rest and take care of the baby... "1 sock, high-water sweat pants wearing, dancing to techno, baby."

Losing Grip...

2009-02-05T08:38:00.002-05:00

So I feel like I'm losing my mind.

Each passing day my temper grows shorter. I have become more forgetful and more emotional. It's like the first trimester all over again. I wish I had some control. The people I see every day are going to start hating me... And you know what? Some days I really don't care.

Leonard and I have had a couple of really good screaming matches...over essentially "nothing." I immediately regret all of the things I say and end up bahling for minutes, mainly because I'm upset for even taking it to the point of hysteria in the first place.

I will be so glad when she gets here... Not really sure how much more of this I can take.

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T12:05:00.004-05:00

Christmas was spent lovingly with family...good food, good laughs, all around good time. Leonard got me a beautiful mother's ring with all of our birthstones...even Lia's. It was a great surprise.

So I finally got around to putting together a slideshow of the past year. It's amazing how fast Alexander grew to be a toddler before our eyes. :)

2008 in Review...

It's A GIRL!!!!

2008-11-22T22:13:00.004-05:00

So we just found out yesterday that Alexander is going to have a baby sister! So exciting!!! It was funny because before my OB even got to the part where she could tell, Leonard says, "Yep, looks like a girl to me..." She ended up telling him it was a lucky guess. In the car later he told me, "It really did look like a girl..." :D

INTRODUCING LIA GRACE:

4 Years!!!!

2008-11-19T00:03:00.007-05:00

Today marks the 4th anniversary of our first date. The 19th of each month was always celebrated (as the "monthiversary") until we got married...when Leonard decided that there was only room for 1 anniversary. Well, this year I was successful in making him realize why this day was so important to me.

November 19th always holds a special place in my heart because it symbolizes the first day of the rest of my life. Leonard was giving me a hard time but I explained to him how if we didn't go on that date, I don't know where I would be. I was divorced and had just gotten out of a bad rebound relationship 6-months prior...and was making some really odd decisions in my life...particularly with my finances. I also remember not being really happy with myself physically and just had an overwhelming sense of unfulfillment...

Leonard and I had become really good friends over the year (2003-2004) and I had confided in him about my insecurities. He started helping me get back into shape in the gym and we found ourselves spending a lot of time together. In the midst of all that, we were experiencing some serious "tension" and were bickering all the time at work and after. Finally I confronted him about it and told him that I had been denying my feelings for him. He quickly asked me out on a date...and the rest is history.

So glad we went out on that day. My life changed that day (actually that weekend...we ended up spending together.) I had a new perspective on life and love. Leonard helped me to realize what love really was supposed to be... And how you can truly fall in love with your best friend. I tell everyone that being friends with someone first (especially as close as we were at the time) is the best way to start a romantic relationship. There's truly nothing like it.

"Never Would Have Made It"

2008-11-06T22:18:00.005-05:00

So, inspired by my good friend's (art dog's life) blog post, "Yes We Can," I decided to go hunting for something I heard on the radio the day after the election... While driving back home from dropping Alexander off at the sitter's, I heard a song on the radio that actually nearly brought me to tears. It was a collection of excerpts from Obama speeches dubbed over Marvin Sapp's "Never Would Have Made It." Listening to the combination of the lyrics of the song and his speeches was the moment that I was genuinely moved to tears by this whole thing. I guess it was just so overwhelming before that it really hadn't "hit" me... Well, that morning, I was hit.

Unfortunately, I can't find the exact song... (I think it was something that the radio startion may have put together themselves, of which I plan on inquiring about.) Instead I found Obama (and Obama related) images linked with the song. Enjoy:

"I VOTED TODAY..."

2008-11-03T20:18:00.005-05:00

...well actually yesterday. I stood in line at Vets Memorial for 4 hours. I knew I really wouldn't have an hour (or longer) to wait on Tuesday. So, I thought it best to wait when I didn't have anything else to do. It was worth it. Although my back, empty stomach, bladder, and feet would beg to differ. I was really stupid for waiting so long to go. My mother and brother went about a little over a week ago and were basically in and out. It was a serious lesson learned.

Well, the polls opened at 1pm. I got there at 12:15pm along with about 50 other people...which was after a couple of hundred people. Because the facility had yet to open, we initially stood outside, and at the time were pretty close to the "end of the line", which only spanned the length of the building (we were standing against the wall.) At about 12:40 they opened the doors...only for us to walk into a gymnasium sized room with tables and chairs (serving as ropes) to which we were to weave in and out. There were concession stands of pizza, hot dogs, popcorn, pretzels and lemonade in two locations inside this room. We were in there for about an hour and a half. Next, it was off to a hallway and up some stairs, where there was another winding line with ropes...and at the end, the voting booths! About a 2.5 hour wait all together.

By the time we got up the stairs, the line outside had grown...and wrapped around into the parking lot. All of those poor unsuspecting people... Had no idea of the BIG room with tables...and then the true line just before voting. A bunch of us took pics with our phones. Here was my best shot:

Here is a story from The Columbus Dispatch describing what the wait was like yesterday:

"LONG LINES GREET EARLY VOTERS"

About 2 hours into the line I had to go to the bathroom... I actually held it to the end. I hadn't eaten anything since 8am. But, hunger didn't bother me to the point of sickness... And my back was KILLING me. I saw about 2 or 3 other pregnant women...a lot further along than I and I could not believe they were standing that long. To distract me from the pain, I talked with other people in line and listened to my MP3 player...and by 3:45pm I was walking into the room to cast my absentee ballot. One of my line-mates said he felt like Rocky at the top of the steps...and then began chanting the theme. As I walked in to get my ballot, I briefly forgot about having to use the bathroom, how bad my back hurt, and that I was starving. Oh and what a great sense of accomplishment when I sealed that envelope! I thought I would get a sticker that said, "I VOTED TODAY." But instead I got this sticker:

Believe it or not, I feel like I did make a difference.

Halloween and the first "bang cut"

2008-11-01T11:11:00.014-05:00

Halloween already?! Alexander was being a ornery all day, so he was appropriately dressed for the day with a "Mommy's little Monster" outfit. (Notice his bangs in his eyes in the picture above.)

We decided to dress Alexander in his Halloween costume from last year. The, "Oatmeal Bear," was packaged as an outfit for 0-6 month olds... Yeah, right. This thing was HUGE...surely big enough for a 9-12 month old! There was NO WAY poor 1.5 month old Alexander was going to fit in that thing. So...off into the closet it went. (Halloween has never been a really big deal to me, so I didn't care about getting him another one.) Just as I suspected, it was big enough for him to wear this year. (I'm sure the fact that my baby is tiny helped considerably.)

We didn't think it was necessary to go "Trick or Treating"...so instead we packed Alexander into his stroller and in the midst of all the masquerading neighborhood kids, took a walk over to Leonard's parents house. (They only live a couple of blocks away.) He was too cute...and got a few looks on the way.

The next day, we took Alexander to get his first hair cut...well, more so a "bang cut." We don't have the heart to cut into his beautiful curls...and the main goal was to get his bangs out of eyes. It was totally becoming a nuisance, to say the least. So here he is sitting on his Daddy's lap just after the careful snip of his bangs had occurred:

They gave us the curls in a little bag as a keepsake:

And here is Alexander at a birthday party eating cake later that same day. It's amazing how much better his face looks with his bangs out of his eyes!

Alexander Walks!

2008-10-28T19:44:00.002-05:00

So, we took a little family outing on Saturday to visit my aunts and my grandmother and then to my good friend Peter's house. Leonard rarely goes with Alexander and me on such excursions, but decided he would join us this day. Was he ever glad he tagged along! At my grandmother's, Alexander was walking around like he's been doing it for weeks. He would just stand up on his own (from the ground) and take many steps until he got to where he was going. If he stopped, or sat down, most of the time it was intentional...to pick something up or if he saw something that interested him. We were over there for about an hour and a half and he was walking around nearly the entire time.

Here is Alexander on one of his longest promenades:

Since then, he has made conscious decisions about whether to walk or to crawl. It's really about 50/50 at the moment...whatever suits his mood.

We're such proud parents. Alexander gets his teeth and starts walking all at 13 months. :)

Alexander Taking a Few Steps

2008-10-20T08:17:00.004-05:00

So, Alexander has been walking around the house lately with his toys, cruising on just about everything that he can hold on to and standing by himself for prolonged periods of time... As of late, he has been taking little steps by himself. The first time was about 2 weeks ago, he was playing with his Daddy and took 3 steps...I was at the grocery store. The next, I got to witness at a bridal shower for Leonard's cousin last weekend. (He took 3 steps in between two of the cousins.) Last night, while at dinner at our friends' house, he took TONS of steps.

Alexander was on fire! He actually took about 8-10 at the max once while I was crawling on the floor beside him. (I think he somehow thought I was supporting him...) lol Of course, that didn't get filmed because I was crawling and Leonard never got the camera out himself.

Here is a video of 1 of the times I was actually able to catch him taking a few steps:

This was at the end of the night... Tired as can be from all the walking around:

Playing "Catch-up"

2008-10-18T23:22:00.009-05:00

It's been a busy 2 weeks.

Leonard surprised me one day and sent me flowers at work! It was the sweetest thing ever. Really made my eyes water... I was truly shocked. He literally sent them "just because..." The card said he had been thinking about us a lot lately and realized how happy he was and that he was truly blessed to have such a wonderful life.

Leonard's Birthday was October 10th. We had an evening away, a lovely stay in the Nearby Hilton and dinner at Ruth's Chris Steak House. (It was amazing!) I also presented him with the birthday present of his dreams...AC/DC tickets! I, however, will not be going... Not really a big AC/DC fan. Fortunately for Leonard, he has a friend who is almost as excited as he is... And we later discovered that Alexander has a innate affection for the band, as well.

Here are a few pictures from the night... And a video of Alexander dancing to "Rock n' Roll Train", AC/DC's latest release.

And so that brings me to the events of the past 2 weeks. I had the pleasure of choreographing 2 period pieces for a play from my dear director friend, Todd Decker. The dances were set in the 1800's, basic couple and contra dancing. We only rehearsed for a week before opening night...and the cast impressed me with their eagerness to learn and their ability to discipline themselves to "get it right." The play was "Thurston & The Legend of Cherry Hill". It was an original production, written by Todd himself, to tell a few ghost stories and the history of the residents in Green Lawn Cemetery here in Columbus, Ohio. The show was a hit! The cast of Marion-Franklin high school, although most inexperienced, pulled it off successfully. I was very proud. And I actually learned a few things about some famous Columbus natives!

Oh, and my mother-in-law, recently started a blog... She created a slide-show of Alexander's first visit to the library. To view it, click on this link: Alexander's 1st Trip To the Library (Once there, hit the F11 key to view the show.) It's too cute.

And lastly, a quick update on Alexander and my pregnancy:

The biggest Alexander news is thathe cut 2 teeth last week. (FINALLY!) You can only see them when he's eating, though. Alexander will be walking any day now! He cruises on everything and when he runs out of things to hold on to, you can tell he could keep going, but he chooses to crawl to his next destination. At this point, his babbling has become more "sentence-like" but with not many clear words. He points at everything and changes his facically expressions as he speaks. He's growing up so quickly.

I will be 16 weeks pregnant on Monday. Everything is going really well, so much so that at times I often forget I am pregnant until a mood swing occurs or I forget to eat in a timely fashion and end up feeling ill. We have our next prenatal appointment on Tuesday the 21st. We went to Babies R Us today to get Alexander some more season-appropriate clothing and ended up checking out the dual strollers. It will defintiely be an adventure having 2 children so close together! But, we are up for the challenge.

Ta-ta for now!

Happy Birthday, Alexander!

2008-09-24T20:19:00.005-05:00

September 18, 2008 marked the anniversary of Alexander's birth! What a wonderful day. We just had a intimate family get together on Thursday, but we plan to have a big birthday bash in a few days.

Alexander was really not very into the whole cake thing... Maybe this is practice for the party on Saturday. (very poor light in this video...I used the wrong camera.)

He had his year well-check today. The stats at 1 year:

18 lbs 1oz
27 inches long (tall)
18 1/4 inches = head circum.

He is in less than the 5th percentile for height and weight.

Alexander had a pretty traumatic experience at the doctor's office...

They ended up sticking my poor, tiny, baby with 6 needles! He got a toe prick for his hematocrit and hemoglobin before the examination even started. Then after the pediatrican saw him, he got 4 shots and an injection to test for TB. I was devastated. I ended up taking the rest of the day off because the poor thing was so hysterical.

Thank goodness, he ended up calming down...after a while and ate pretty well, shortly there after.

Crazy. He is right on point for all of his milestones, though. Still no teeth, though! Doc said they will come soon... He wants me to wait another month before putting him on whole milk. He wants to see if the breast milk and formula will give him some more vitamins and help him reach 20 lbs.

It's amazing how fast this year went. I still can't believe he is a year old... And that he is going to be a big brother before he's 2! ;D

The Happenings of Alexander

2008-08-28T20:02:00.006-05:00

So I've been a bit delinquent in posting about my son. In about 3 weeks he will be a year old. Unreal.

Milestones:

-Finally started to crawl! (August 21st) This video is from the 23rd. (Daddy was mean at the end...)

-He also has been pulling himself to standing on nearly EVERYTHING.

-He can say doggie, duck and Da-Da, deliberately when the objects are in front of him. (Still no Mama! :( )

-He has developed new "tricks." This is what you call resourceful:

-He loves to splash in the bath...and the pool:

-He has been sleeping in his own bed for over 3 weeks now. We can put him down in the crib for a nap or even the night and he whimpers for a brief moment, and then he's out. I think he likes his new room... I think he likes his walls. :) I finally finished it at the end of July.

(The last pan shot is a little crooked, but you get the idea.)

Needless to say, the kid has totally developed his own personality and is really good at mimicking. (The new one is getting him to squint... I've got to get this on video!) Alexander waves to everything, when we wakes up, leaves a room, or truly goes bye-bye, it's so funny. He also gives kisses. Dancing and singing along to music is still one of his favorite past times. Not to mention he can always be caught reading his books...

It's the End of An Era...

2008-08-08T21:58:00.011-05:00

After working 11 years and 8 months at the same place of business, I have decided to move on. Ultimately, my decision is based on the fact that my position was heading towards a direction that I could not see myself working through.

I accepted a job as a telecommunications analyst for the 3rd largest financial institution in the world. It will be a totally "different world than where I come from..."

I turned in my resignation on a Monday, and to my surprise they actually had me work the entire 2 weeks!

My friends were really sweet and got me a going away gift. A lovely framed, montage of my name with cut outs of words they feel emulate me. It made me cry. They took me to lunch at El Vaquero and later that evening we did a farewell Happy Hour at the usual spot, the Inn Between.

I sure will miss my friends and co-workers...and even the remnants of my company before we got acquired, but definitely won't miss the "company."

(after opening my gift)
(my gift)
(the girls...)
(Alexander @ the farewell party)

Alexander Reads

2008-07-01T10:28:00.000-05:00

Alexander Dancing to Diego

2008-07-01T07:47:00.002-05:00

So I spent a night of capturing my baby on film dancing to his favorite theme songs...

This was the Diego theme song when it is reprised in the beginning of the show:

Bouncy Alexander

2008-07-01T07:42:00.002-05:00

This is Alexander in his bouncy seat, from Mary Ann's (his babysitter.) And while I'm on that subject. Alexander has the best daytime care in the world! We were blessed enough to be able to use a long time friend's mother and it is one of the best decisions we have made when it comes to Alexander. It's like he has another set of grandparents and he loves them dearly. I never worry...not even when I first left him. It's perfect.

(June 7, 2008)

My Baby is 9 Months Old

2008-06-29T18:13:00.006-05:00

I know it's been a long time. Work is hectic, (that's an understatement.) Still settling into the new home...and being a Mom is an entirely separate occupation...

So, thought I would report on how fast my little Alexander is growing. There are 2 new babies at church. I genuinely told the parents of one of them that I really don't even remember him being that small. How can I say that after only 9 months? It's so real.

He's a little off with the timing of his well-check, so we don't go to the doctor until later this week. My prediction is that he is about 19 lbs and 27 inches long. (I'd be happy if I were wrong and he ends up more!)

As far as the milestone check:

Alexander rolled over from his front to his back the other day...mainly to get off of his tummy...but nonetheless, it happened.
Still no crawling... Although he's making progress. His "want" is outweighing his discomfort and overall disgust with "tummy time." He's starting to prop himself up on his hands (almost like an ape, lol) while sitting on the bed to reach for things he wants.

Alexander has totally grasped the "cause and effect" concept... Hence, he is spoiled. He is all about dropping things and watching you pick them up. He screams and whines for things because he has a good feeling he'll get it. (We have actually recently become successfull at ignoring him for periods of time and coming to him when he takes a "break" in the midst of a tantrum.)

He can wave "bye-bye." (will get on film soon...)

He dances to music, especially Noggin show theme songs, (will get on film soon...) and can be found singing in church.

We have started to make his baby food and he has moved to eating more advanced food. (Foods mixed together, meats we eat, etc.)

Will report on the well-check stats soon...and add some videos!

End of May Already

2008-05-28T20:49:00.003-05:00

Time flies when you're having fun... We've been busy getting the house together...and well...with life in general. I thought it was time I got back on here and blogged a few things.

The month in review:

Mother's Day was interesting. Not quite my favorite day as a mother, I can admit, but I was shown I was appreciated by the ones I love. Alexander modeled a new look for us right before heading out to visit our mothers:

Our 1 year anniversary was Monday, the 26th. Unfortunately, Alexander was sick and we didn't feel it was fair to anyone (including Alexander) to leave him with someone. So, we got carryout from Max and Erma's and watched a movie. Leonard was too sweet and sent me a dozen roses on Saturday. It was actually a surprise. We're going to try to raincheck the our day, some day soon...

Now, I am sick. I went to the Urgent Care today and was diagnosed with Bronchitis, although it could still possibly be something viral. We'll see. I am feeling a little better, with the occasional coughing fit. Hopefully I'll be better by the weekend...

((Sigh)) I hear Alexander crying... The call of motherhood...

The move of my life...

2008-05-08T00:28:00.004-05:00

So we got moved and pretty much unpacked in a week's time. Nothing like taking a week off of work to "work." Leonard says it was the most productive week of his life.

The move went better than expected...aside from a few setbacks I encountered while packing due to my husband's wonderful packing jobs. I came to the conclusion that he genuinely didn't know very much about packing. There were quite a few HUGE DELL computer boxes packed full of books. And not just any books, but college textbooks and binders. I had to repack about 2 boxes and did some reorganizing, but I got it done. Here is a before and after picture of one of the repacking jobs I had to do:

And believe it or not, with the exception of an argument early on (about packing, of course) we really didn't argue nor disagree about anything else. It was a blessing.

The house was pretty much "move-in" ready. But, the sad thing is we need to redo Alexander's nursery. I took more pictures to remember how cool it was. This was the infamous wall...

It's such a wonderful sense of accomplishment. When I get a new camera (mine is not working at the moment) I will be sure to post pictures of our new place!

Alexander... "Da Da"

2008-04-27T13:55:00.003-05:00

Alexander just recently began practicing his syllables... "Da Da" is of course the first. Followed at times by "ba ba." And you know I had to get it on camera:

We are now officially homeowners!

2008-04-27T08:46:00.004-05:00

It's official. We closed on our first home on Friday, April 25th. It was such a great feeling. We plan on moving next weekend. We still have quite a lot of packing to do (which explains my absence from my blog) but I had to run on here to post the latest, greatest news. It's really exciting.

So here's the low down:

It has 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths, (of which the master has a jacuzzi tub!) We have a finished basement, 2-car garage and a lovely backyard with deck and a swing set. The house is totally move-in ready, with the exception of having to redo Alexander's Disney nursery...which I'm more than willing to do. It obviously has plenty of room to grow.

Needless to say, the hardest part is packing. I'm so glad we won't have to do this again for a LONG time. :)

Alexander Eats Green Beans

2008-04-10T20:02:00.005-05:00

This was Alexander on Sunday, April 6th eating green beans for the first time. He's too funny. We're in for a ride, for sure. Enjoy!

And you're his...MOTHER?

2008-04-06T17:24:00.006-05:00

So Alexander had his 6 month appointment on Thursday. We were actually there about 2 weeks late because of scheduling conflicts with our home inspection and other things... I took the day off because Leonard had to go to Ashtabula for a mediation and I wasn't trying to do all of the toting to and from the sitter's by myself. Not to mention that the poor baby was to get 3 shots with anticipated discomfort following. We get to the doctor's office early (for once) and sat in the waiting room with about 4 other pairs of folks there to see a doctor. We waited for about 5-10 minutes, all while Alexander was getting his normal, "Oh he's so cute" looks and comments. We're called back to the room and I put his stuff down and immediately get to undressing him. (We've got this routine down.) We had a new (different) nurse than the other 2 that we usually see and as I'm undressing him she's starting her customary developmental interview... She confirmed he was there for his 6 month well-check and the question that followed, said with uncertainty, was, "And you're his....mother?" Without a second thought I said, "YEP!" and continued to undress Alexander. It wasn't until she left the room that I realized what she asked me... I looked down at Alexander with a chuckle and said, "She asked me if I was your mommy..." Understandably so... But, still. It's kind of disheartening to hear. I always joke about how when I'm out with Alexander by myself that some folks would mistaken me for the nanny. But, for some reason it actually bothered me a little... Because I AM his mommy and I want people to know it! :) Then I thought of all of those people in the waiting room...what they must have thought. ((SIGH)) Oh, well... I guess I've got to get used it.

Here are the stats:

16 lbs 13 oz (25th - 50th for age)
25.5 inches long 25th (10th - 25th for age)
17.5 head circumference (50th - 75th for age)

Alexander on the Cover of Jet?

2008-03-30T11:53:00.009-05:00

So Leonard went to the grocery store yesterday and calls me as he is loading the car with the groceries to tell me that this actress, Garcelle Beauvais, was on the cover of Jet with her babies and one of them looks like Alexander. He said he was checking out and thought "What the heck?" Called me and said, "Alexander is on the cover of Jet!" The funny thing was that he was telling me that she and I are about the same complexion...yet both have such bright babies. He couldn't believe it. I was cracking up. So, I got online to see if I could find the cover. Well here it is folks:

So the other obviously funny thing is, is that the babies are twins. lol (But according to Leonard, the one on the left looks like Alexander...) Of course I had to do some surfing to see what her husband looks like...

Makes sense huh?

My baby, on the cover of Jet. ;)

Just had to share...

March Holidays

2008-03-25T07:55:00.005-05:00

So tell me how on earth I missed posting this precious picture of my Alexander on St. Patrick's Day? We called off work that day but I had to come in the office to return something. Well, it was "Crazy Hat Day" and one of the women I work with decided that Alexander needed to be in the photo to send to corporate office for the contest... Alexander ended up getting honorable mention...as the youngest participant. I didn't even get the poor boy dressed for the day. So sad. He's wearing his Dylan's Candy Store sleeper is uncle Dan got for him at the store in New York.

Here's one of the 2 of us, that didn't get sent to corporate. :)

And would you believe I missed photographing Alexander's first Easter??? :( We drove to Lisbon for the day and I left my camera at home... I ended up taking a few with Leonard's aunt's camera, so hopefully I will see them again some day. :)

Happy Belated St. Patrick's Day and Easter!

My Fair Hamentashen

2008-03-18T09:11:00.010-05:00

Purium is coming! Purium is a Jewish Holiday celebrating the triumph of the Jews as told in the Book of Esther. This year it falls on Friday, March 21st. I found this excerpt online...thought it was a good synopsis:

The Purim Story is for all ages
Indeed, the Book of Esther reads much like a play. The Divine Name is not mentioned openly once in the text. All the miracles appear as natural occurrences coordinated by the Ultimate Producer and Director. The main plot revolves around the wicked Haman advising King Ahashverosh to annihilate his Jewish subjects. Many intertwining subplots include the rise of Esther to the throne, a plot to kill the King overheard by Mordechai and reported to the palace security, the sincere repentance of the Jews upon hearing that their fate has been given over to the sword, and a chain of drinking parties. Read all about it!(- http://www.jewishbyte.com/purim.php)

Once again, I choreographed the Congreagation Tifereth Isarel's Purium celebration production. This year, the play was a spoof of My Fair Lady, (My Fair Hamentashen.) Hamentashen is a traditional food of Purium. (Also called Haman Pockets.) They are triangle-shaped pastries (cookies) with a center filling of fruit. The rehearsals were fun and the production was a grand crowd pleaser. I was so happy with the performance of the cast.

Here they are, mostly still dressed in the elaborate costumes from the "Ascot" scene...

Here's another with Esther ("Eliza") and Mordechai (Esther's cousin) Their duets stole the show:

I definitely plan on joining in on some Purium fun next year!

We're now a 2-vehicle household...

2008-03-10T11:18:00.007-05:00

Finally. I got a new ride last Tuesday. I took a picture of her yesterday. She is a 2004 Mercury Mountaineer... Our family "car"...yet still sporty. I absolutely love it. It has all of the upgrades and rides really smooth. The only downfall is the fuel expenditure. But, either way it went, I was getting an SUV...most all of the SUVs I had my eye on were pretty comparable. I even went to www.fueleconomy.gov and found out that the EPA Air Pollution score is a 3 out of 10, [10 being the best] which is better than our Pontiac (which is a 2.)

It was really helpful to have throughout the blizzard this past weekend. Seems as if we got her just in time. And since I name all of my cars, Leonard came up with a good one..."GOLDIE."

With my involvement in various projects around town...amongst other things I would like to do...this will seriously simplify our lives.

So Leonard and I were right. We've never seen this much snow. It was record-breaking...20.4" at Port Columbus. And as I predicted on Saturday...this was front page of the Sunday paper:

"...while a record 20.4 inches of snow piled up.

The previous mark for a single storm locally was 15.3 inches. That was set nearly a century ago, on Feb. 16-17, 1910.

The snow that fell since midnight yesterday would have set the mark by itself. The 15.4 inches at Port Columbus set a new 24-hour mark, outdoing the 12.2 inches on April 4, 1987." - Kathy Lynn Gray, The Columbus Dispatch

And here's a video I took of the aftermath.

Snowed-In!

2008-03-08T16:29:00.006-05:00

(after Leonard shoveled the driveway for the 2nd time.)

I'm sure this will go down in the Ohio record books as "The Blizzard of 2008." Leonard and I were discussing earlier and neither of us have any good memory of this much snow. At this point it's well over a foot...and for a while there didn't appear to be an end in sight.

So, here we are at a government issued Level 2 Emergency (if you don't have anywhere to go...don't try to go anywhere) with other surrounding counties at a Level 3 (not permitted to go anywhere unless it's an emergency.) Funny thing is, even if we WANTED to go somewhere we couldn't because the snow is so high anything without 4WD wouldn't get very far. (Good thing I just got a Mercury Mountaineer a few days ago...it really came in handy yesterday.) We're pretty much snowed-in...

It's been a good day to get some housework done and watch movies...

The pictures are from today...as well as a 30 second video of the continuing blowing snow.

A Day of Firsts

2008-03-02T22:13:00.005-05:00

Today Alexander had his first play date (which was totally unplanned) and he ate "solid" food for the first time.

I am doing the Purium show for my friends at the Tifereth Israel downtown. They have started a tradition of telling the story of Ester through a musical variation. Last year it was "Grease". This year it's "My Fair Lady"...or "My Fair Hamentaschen." One of the cast member's 9 month-old daughter was there...and so was Alexander. So we sat the 2 of them together... It was too cute. (Note how well he's sitting up...)

And later this evening we decided to try him out on some rice for the first time. He ate pretty well, but was tired so I ended up feeding him milk to help him to sleep...

Baby Einstein

2008-02-23T23:34:00.004-05:00

So we finally went out and bought Alexander and "exersaucer-type" thing... It's actually called "Baby Einstein" made by Graco. I believe Evenflo has the patent on the name "Exersaucer" but it serves the same purpose. Alexander was in need of of some entertaining...some stimulation...and we needed to give him something else to do besides watch NOGGIN all day.

Here's a brief video of him playing with it for the first time. It was too cute. I anticipate much use out of it and more mobility once his feet can firmly reach the bottom... ;) (Midnight apparently wanted some camera time and can be seen lurking in the shot.)

Alexander Sits

2008-02-20T09:18:00.004-05:00

Alexander has been doing pretty well sitting on his own for longer than a minute... So I got a few shots of him sitting in his cute little Pooh outfit:

Happy Valentine's Day!

2008-02-14T11:08:00.016-05:00

Today is a day about love...a day for lovers, friends and family. For some, Valentine's Day is every day. Others, need to be reminded and set time aside on this special day. I can personally say that I don't need a day set aside to show the people in my life that I love them. However, it's a great excuse to go out to dinner or plan some time away. ;D Leonard and I have resevered a hotel room at the Hilton for Friday night and Alexander is going to Leonard's parents'. :) I welcome the much needed break and quality time with the man I love...

Alexander will officially be 5 months old on Monday, the 18th. 5 months! Already... It's all going by as fast as my pregnancy. Amazing.

So here's an update on Alexander's development:

At the last visit he was 14lbs 10oz and 23.75 inches long. He is starting to fall into the more average percentiles, when comparing to other babies his age.

He has mastered being a supported sitter. Every day he gets closer to completely sitting on his own. He's constantly using his ab muscles to lift himself to a crunch position.

He's a really happy baby...smiling all the time and giggling when something is funny to him. Especially when he has his goofy father around.

He reaches for things, can hold objects in his hands, and grabs at most everything in sight to put into his mouth.

He's starting to sleep most of the night...only waking occasionally to eat. And we have had quite a few successful nights of sleeping in his crib.

He cannot STAND "Tummy Time." But we force mild sessions and he whimpers the entire time.

His cooing has advanced to response-like babbling when someone is speaking to him.

He watches television intently. Particularly Nick Jr.'s spin off channel, NOGGIN, geared towards preschoolers. (Leonard and I can be caught watching it when Alexander is asleep.)

He has a true affinity to music. Certain songs can calm him...others, like the ones heard on NOGGIN, can capture his attention.

Alexander is a delight. He makes all of my bad days better and truly has become the other love of my life...

The Best 35 Seconds You'll Ever See...

2008-01-28T13:33:00.003-05:00

Leonard was "scaring" him...and he was cracking up... :)

Such A Big Boy!

2008-01-09T09:30:00.004-05:00

Can't believe he will be 4 months old in 9 days. Our next appointment is on the 24th. I can't wait to see how much he's grown!

Here's a video of Alexander, the "supported" sitter:

Happy New Year!

2008-01-01T13:00:00.009-05:00

2007 was the best year of my life...

Slideshow of 2007 pre-Alexander:

Slideshow post-Alexander:

Top Ten Things I have noticed/learned since I've become a Mom...

2007-12-05T09:22:00.001-05:00

A mother eats her food very fast.

Seeing your baby pout his lip while crying can melt your heart.

You can never have too many babysitters.

Going back to work after maternity leave isn't as hard as one might think...

"Sleep when the baby sleeps," is easier said than done.

It is possible to function on 3 hours of sleep.

A baby's smile can make you smile every time.

Your husband can suddenly go deaf in the middle of the night...

Your dog may not care too much for the baby...but still cares very much about you.

You can't remember what life was like before you were a mother...and wouldn't change it for the world.

Much To Be Thankful For...

2007-11-28T20:45:00.000-05:00

I am thankful for my good health and the good health of those I love.

I am thankful for my new family. Leonard, Alexander, and Midnight are all such a blessing.

I am thankful for my family and friends. I am blessed that I am able to maintain a close relationship with my family and in-laws and to have a wonderful circle of friends.

I am thankful that I have a job. Leonard and I both kept our jobs in the midst of a merger and while others lost theirs...

I am thankful to have financial stablilty. It's a great feeling to not have to check the balance in my checking account before making a purchase. I am blessed to have a roof over my head and food in my belly.

I am thankful that I have found peace in my life.

ONE OF MY MANY BLESSINGS ~ Alexander on Thanksgiving Day:

Is it possible to spoil a newborn baby?

2007-10-24T10:37:00.000-05:00

Parenthood is exhausting. Alexander has so many needs to be met and it takes all the energy in the world to do that on most days.

He actually has started to become fussy... If he is WIDE awake, he's an angel. But, the times in between sleep (getting there and waking up) can be rough. I was starting to believe that he was becoming spoiled because he really only sleeps when someone is holding him. But, he can actually fall asleep in my arms and wake up with one of his startle reflexes and scream and scream, (as if he isn't being held)...

I have sinced learned that it is impossible to spoil a baby. A baby crys to communicate his needs. If we respond quickly, it strengthens the trust he has for us. Babies don't have the cognitive skills to realize the cause and effect of actions. That skill is developed when they are about 6-8 months old. So for now...I'm all about running to tending to Alexander's cries...as exhausting as it may be.

So then, I was starting to think that he was developing colic. The doctor told me last Thursday that Alexander shakes because he has an immature nervous system (since he was born so small...) Which I looked up on the internet and discovered it's possibly a cause of colic. Along with a sensitive temperment, it can be making it difficult for a baby to control his crying.

Here is an article on colic from WebMD: http://children.webmd.com/tc/colic-overview

However, I am able to make him stop...eventually. So I did so more research and found out that Alexander is most likely suffering from an immature digestive system. He grunts and crys when he is about to burp and/or spit up... If he falls asleep before he burps...he wakes up with the grunting and crying and then spits up.

(Gas issues are not to be confused with colic...although it could make colic worse or be worsen by the crying:

8. Crying
Infant gas is often thought of as being the same as infant colic. However, they are NOT the same. Although a baby experiencing episodes of colic may also have gas (possibly due to swallowing air while crying) a baby with gas does not necessarily have colic. Studies have shown that gas alone does not cause the level of distress and/or discomfort experienced by a colicky baby.
9. Sleep disturbances
Understandably, a baby with a stomach ache will have problems sleeping, either falling asleep or staying asleep. However, there are many more common reasons for a baby to have disturbed sleep other than discomfort.)

Right now the crying is making life even more exhausting, but I'm starting to get used to it. I anticipate this to be a phase that passes... I will ask his pediatrican about it some more when we go back for his 2 month well-check. (He will be getting about 5 shots then, too...)

So here's a video of my sweet child with his Daddy...

Does this look spoiled to you?

Our lives have changed forever...

2007-10-08T18:04:00.001-05:00

It's been a long time...

I have just finished posting my birth story here for anyone who did not get the pleasure of hearing it first hand: http://www.pregnancy.org/bulletinboards/showthread.php?t=13671&page=4

Here's a short video of him being held by Leonard's mother.at about 2 days old..really no sound and bad light, but you get the idea:

It took me so long to write as I have now become a human milk bottle and Alexander is constantly feeding. When we brought him home, he was 5lbs and 6oz... At his first appointment with the pediatrician, (3 days later) he was 5lbs 14oz. We took him to the doctor today because he has been congested (to what we were told is just a cold) and he is now 7lbs and 5oz. So, he's definitely eating okay...

I don't know how many times since Alexander arrived I have told Leonard, "You do realize our lives have changed forever... There is no turning back." I hate to say, but most times it's said with a bit of regret... But, I can honestly say, I wouldn't change it for the world. It's just a lot to take in some days... After the restless nights (not so much sleepless...but interrupted sleep nonetheless,) and endless feedings... I sit and wonder what it will be like to go out again...on a date, away for a weekend, even back to work. It's just more than I thought I would be contemplating.

Alexander is truly a miracle indeed (as so is the name of my pregnancy journal.) I wouldn't give him back for anything. But, our lives have changed forever.

39 Weeks

2007-09-10T13:46:00.000-05:00

Today I have reached 39 weeks. Technically, I only have 7 more days left until we get to meet Alexander. I still can't get over this "pregnant for 40 weeks stuff." Why did someone ever come up with the 9 months idea??? I actually feel pretty well...just uncomfortable when he's rolling around. He rarely outright kicks me, but is constantly stretching and poking. Still unbearable.

I was in the hospital for a couple of days due to high blood pressure, and am now officially on maternity leave because of it. To read about my hospital stay, check out my pregnancy blog:

http://www.pregnancy.org/bulletinboards/showthread.php?t=13671&page=4

So, here I sit...waiting. I'm forbidden to work because I don't want to chance raising my BP again. So, I get to catch up on some movies and lay in bed all day. It's actually much better than doing that in the hospital!

I can't get over how much weight I've gained. As of last week, it was 53lbs. We'll see what I weigh in at tomorrow... Here's a pic of me after our friend Brian's wedding yesterday. Most of my PG pics are in workout clothes...but Lord knows I haven't been doing much of that lately, so this one is actually in "real" clothes.

Counting down the days..........

Fortune Cookie

2007-08-20T21:15:00.000-05:00

I forgot! My fortune cookie from P.F. Chang's yesterday...

How cool is that?

9 months

2007-08-19T18:23:00.000-05:00

So, I can't believe it's been over a month since I last blogged. Well...actually, I can. I try to save the PG updates for the pregnacy blog, but it's all that is consuming my life at this moment.

Tomorrow I will be 36 weeks along in this pregnancy. Can you believe that? 9 months... I'm so ready for Alexander to be here already. I was told that 37 weeks was considered full term...so as far as I'm concerned he can come any time after that! Leonard wants him to cook for as long as possible... (I'm not too keen on that idea.) Although miserable at times, I've found ways to find comfort during these last weeks. So, it's not as bad as it could be. My biggest issue now is that the kid is on my bladder all the time. I'm running to the bathroom every couple of hours...literally. That's getting old...

We started childbirth classes last Monday and have 2 more scheduled in the coming weeks. I am also taking a breastfeeding class on Tuesday night. Alexander's nursery is nearly complete...with bedding, border, and all of the stuff we've gotten from the showers is organized.

It's all coming together so nicely. I really can't wait for our new addition to the family.

As I continue to state, I am very happy with my life. Leonard and I grow closer every day... I can see and feel from him the love and excitement that he puts into every aspect of our relationship. He takes such good care of me...waits on me even when I'm whiny. Leonard is truly my ideal partner. Some days I just want to pinch myself...it just seems too good to be true.

Finished Painting Alexander's Room!

2007-07-05T04:14:00.001-05:00

After about 20 hours total of work... We finally finished the wall. Angie and I painted Mickey together. Leonard worked a little on Minnie and I finished her off... I did Donald by myself. And Leonard's sister painted the perfect Pluto...

July Already...

2007-07-03T06:59:00.000-05:00

I cannot believe it is July already... We have been married for a little over a month, now... Everyone keeps asking us, "How's married life?" We always reply, "Good." But, ya know...life was good before we were married... I really don't see much difference. The biggest difference is the actual "title" and hearing or saying, "Heather Campanelli." That's actually really cool. But, for the most part, we don't love each other any more, (or less...for that matter,) than we did before we took our vows. I've known since we started dating that I could marry Leonard...and the more and more time we spent together, I felt as if we were already totally committed to each other. Needless to say, life IS good. I know I sound like a broken record when I say this, but I am the happiest I've ever been in my adult life. I feel like everything has finally fell into place.

We had a little painting party on Sunday to begin painting Alexander's room. It's going to be really neat once we have finished. A few folks were upset with us becuase of the colors we chose...they are pretty much brown and light brown. lol I think it's fine. But, Angie is really creative and had some good ideas aboout desgin/detail that we are putting to use. We are getting out of work a little early today so we will be finishing that up today. I ended up wearing a mask (just as a precaution) and it was the silliest looking thing! All in all, it was a good time...we had my sister and her kids, my brother and Leonard's sister, as well as Angie over. Everyone got some painting time...even Tatyanna. We ordered pizza and sat around and laughed. This is truly the fun part of expecting. Leonard and I ordered the crib, mattress, and dresser combo on Saturday so we'll have another day of putting that stuff together.

I still can't believe I'm 7 months pregnant. (And according to everyone else, really don't look the part, either.) The time has truly flown... Alexander will be here before we know it! To read more about my pregnancy adventures, check out my latest post in my pregnancy journal: http://www.pregnancy.org/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=664464&start=20.

Work has been as busy as ever, but I plan on taking some time to myself in the next couple of days. Really looking forward to the time off. Happy 4th of July to you all!

Words Can't Describe...

2007-05-28T11:09:00.001-05:00

Words cannot describe how I am feeling right now. I am officially a married woman! Married to the man of my dreams...my best friend...my confidant...my lover...and the father of my soon-to-be son. I'm on a natural high. I am genuinely happy. There is nothing I can say to convey what I felt two days ago...it was such an overwhelming feeling of love, happiness and peace. And certainly I cannot forget my amazingly wonderful friends, to which my perfect day can be accredited. I keep telling my family that I don't even know what I can do that could possibly express my gratitude and appreciation. There just doesn't seem like anything I can say or do that would be good enough. But, trust me, I will come of with SOMETHING.........................................

11 Days and counting...

2007-05-15T18:24:00.000-05:00

So yeah... Obviously, things have been hectic. The wedding is in 11 days. Can you believe it??? I can barely keep my head on straight. Thank goodness for my AMAZING friends. They have been keeping me on top of things and sane. (Thank you so much!!!) So much has happened...and really not very much time nor energy to write about everything. But, I'll try to give a brief overview..................................................

First, let me remind you all that I am marrying the most wonderful man in the world! I feel so loved and each day my love for him grows stronger (something I was sure it could do.) Leonard takes such good care of me and I trust him with my life...(and that of our growing baby!) He's been traveling a lot lately for work...and that makes me sad. Last week he was in Wyoming from Monday - Thursday. I whined so much about him leaving the Sunday before that he sent me a dozen roses...with a beautiful card that made me tear up. He basically told me that he misses me every time he goes away and to think of him whenever I looked at the flowers while he was gone. (The card is still sitting on my desk in my office.)

Anyway, in the past month, I've had 2 wedding showers that have reminded me how great the people are that I have grown to know in the past 10 years and longer.

I've been working hard and resting much... I've gained about 18 pounds. Body image issues are haunting me...but I realize I must learn to accept the joys of pregnancy.

Most importantly, we just found out we're having a boy! His name is Alexander Lee... We're both very excited. The details of the ultrasound are here: http://www.pregnancy.org/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=664464

The baby is constantly moving...always reminding me that he is there! It's great...but at the same time, it's very distracting! :)

Sleeping has become an adventure... I can never seem to get comfortable. Sad thing is, I'm not even that big yet!!!

I can't wait until the wedding has passed... I'm really ready to start preparing for Alexander's arrival.

Engaged Encounter

2007-04-20T18:56:00.000-05:00

To satisfy our Pre-Cana requirements for our Catholic faith we were required to go to a day long seminar or a weekend long retreat for engaged couples. We opted to do the weekend as we thought we would get more out of it an intimate weekend with 19 other couples than a hectic day with about 40 or so... So, on April 13th Leonard and I headed off to St. Therese's Retreat...right down the road...for our Engaged Encounter weekend. We actually even got into an argument on the way there because I had Leonard get off at the wrong exit...and I was already a little unhappy that we had to go there. Little did I know what was in store of us...

The retreat was to be held from Friday - Sunday afternoon...ending with Mass. We were not told what to expect with no agenda of the weekend. We were told that the sleeping arrangements were dormitory style and to bring a robe because the showers were down the hall. We were also informed that we would have 3 meals on Saturday and 2 on Sunday...and to bring a 2-liter of something to drink and a snack to share as there was no meal for Friday night. That was it. The evening began promptly at 8pm, with registration and time to get settled at 7:30pm. Here I'm thinking we would be introducing ourselves, given an agenda and head off to bed. Boy was I wrong! We were led by a team of couples and a priest. There was a senior couple and a junior couple. They all introduced themselves and briefed us on the particulars of weekend. We were told that the basic format for the weekend would be a talk by one of the couples and the priest on a specific topic, a time for individual reflection/writing and then a time for we to meet up with our fiances for a discussion on our individual reflections. We did this 3 times before the night was over...heading to bed around 11:30pm. I was EXHAUSTED. I usually am in bed by 9pm half the time...it was so hard for me...but I always looked forward to meeting back up with Leonard and talking with him about my thoughts.

Of course we had separate sleeping quarters and I found myself hiding my pregnancy all weekend long. In the back of my mind lingered the thought, "I wonder if anyone can tell?" (Sleeping without Leonard actually was the worst part of the weekend.)

The next day started with a meeting in the chapel for prayer and breakfast. At breakfast Leonard noticed I was hiding my left hand because I did not have my ring. (My ring was at the jewelers getting having a mold made from it for my wedding band.) All of these women had such BEAUTIFUL rings and I didn't have mine! :( It sucked... So, in addition to the pregnancy...I ended up covering up my hand every moment I was aware of it.

After breakfast started a couple of more rounds of listening, reflecting, and discussion... And just when I thought I couldn't take it anymore, we played a game. We actually did a couple of activities that were outside of the normal format and it made the weekend more bearable.

A lot of the topics/questions were items that were on our FOCCUS questionaire. It was nice to be able to sit with Leonard and discuss them in more detail. Our discussions never lasted long...and we usually had time left over in the 20 minutes or so they allotted for the rendez-vous. At those times I would take advantage of being alone with my love and just laying in his arms or joking around with him until they ring the bell for us to return.

Saturday night was about an hour long group discussion over questions we anonymously put in a box and a prayer service for us couples before heading off to bed.

One of our last exercises was to write a bethrothal to our future spouses...a love letter of sorts as well as a promise or contract for our future marriage. This was the easiest and the hardest thing I had to do all weekend. It was easy because I knew exactly what I would write...but hard because I couldn't write it without getting emotional. I was crying as I wrote it because it made me so happy to know that I had someone like Leonard in my life...and to tell him how much I love and adore him. As I read it to him, I broke down even more...bahling like a baby. (As I did when he read me his...) And they had the nerve to ask us to read them at mass? LOL No way. I knew I wouldn't be able to handle it... Alas, it was perfect close to a perfect weekend.

Overall, we learned so much about how in tune we are with our relationship. I believe we had a good understanding of each other as individuals...but never really acknowledged how solid our comprehension of our relationship was. We have such a deep connection and our weekend was literally a confirmation of how genuine our love is...and how we truly are meant to be together.

Weird Day

2007-04-01T11:15:00.000-05:00

For the past few days I've had a pain in my back...closer to my neck than anything, but I can't pinpoint the cause nor how to remedy it. I just know it hurts!! It's pretty much where my cervical vertebrae ends and my thoracic begins. (For those who don't know much about anatomy, that a little lower than my shoulders.) I could barely move last night...and getting dressed this morning was horrific. Moving my left arm in any direction/position sends a shooting pain through my upper back. I really don't know what to do. But, by time I got to church, I actually started feeling sick...not sure if it was nausea or what, but enough to take my mind off the pain. Since it is Palm Sunday today, the Gospel was the reading of the Passion and that's an awful long time to be standing. Normally, I would be fine. Today...today I broke out in a cold sweat and actually had to sit down. From that point forward I felt miserable...sweating, dizzy and uncomfortable.

So, Leo went to the gym and I stayed home to rest.

This has actually been the most restful weekend I've had in months. I got to sleep in for the first yesterday (a Saturday) since January. (And I still was up by 8am!) But, I didn't HAVE to do anything...no school, no work, no show. It was great. I made breakfast and cleaned the kitchen.

Wedding plans are coming along, slowly but surely. There is still much to do! My bridal showers are getting coordinated...(one is for work, the other for family.) I ordered the wedding favors on Friday. Last night I organized the wedding music and took it to our music director at church. I sent Leonard the information for getting their tuxedos. We still need to find a photographer...because the more and more I think about it, I want a pro. Also, we need to get the decorations and programs together. Most importantly, the production of the invitations is on hold until we can be sure that we can marry in the church. The Catholic Dicoese of Columbus is still reviewing my petition for the Pauline Privilege... My witnesses have been served letters and at this point it's a waiting game until all of their responses are in... I really don't want to speak much on that because it gets me really stressed, but I'm not really happy about that situation.

I'd much rather be doing baby stuff and preparing for our new addition. **sigh** But, first things first...

Can we say, Busy?

2007-03-10T20:43:00.000-05:00

I've been so swamped lately it's not even funny. I'm actually too tired to write, but felt I was neglecting blogger over my pregnancy journal. :) So, as a quick update. I had my first ultrasound on Friday. It was amazing! The details are in my pregnancy journal.... (http://www.pregnancy.org/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=664464) The cool thing is... I'm further along than I thought. A little over week further... So, I'm a little over 3 months now. Can you believe that?

Anyway, work has been hectic. I've been working really hard...and with me being the only tech person in the office last week, I was swamped. The system needed to be updated to meet compliancy for the Daylight Savings Time change and it meant a lot of work for us. I was at work last night until about 10pm (took a Happy Hour break, of course,) and then pretty much all day today. I got there at 9:30am, went to class for about a half hour to do my labs and turn in my project (of which I got up at 4am this morning to start and finish,) and then got home around 7pm. Tomorrow will be another long day as I will have to finish working on updates in the morning, (after mass, of course) and then go shopping for a wedding dress and bridesmaids dresses. And just found out a couple of hours ago that tomorrow evening is a birthday party for Leonard's brother...so I guess we'll have to be done by 5pm. I have a little more work I want to do online tonight and then I'm calling it a night. Next week will be another busy week...

The good news is, I got a raise! A really big one too... I was really surprised, because I also got a bonus. Insane. What a blessing!!!

I'll be so glad when things slow down...

Our Baby

Not so "Sunny California"...

2007-02-27T08:31:00.000-05:00

So here I am in Napa Valley on business. It's been cloudy and rainy the past 3 days. The sun is trying to come out, but quickly gets covered. I'm just finishing my lunch...and it's 3:30 pm EST. (12:30 GMT - Pacific) I'm not getting used to this time at all. I'm really tired and don't feel like I have enough energy to get me through the days.

I will not even go into how bad my travel day was...just know that it was probably the worst travel experience I've ever had. (Aside from the ride back to Ohio from visiting my sister in FL on a Greyhound....)

The landscaping of this area is really nice. I'm sure it's a BEAUTIFUL place when the sun is shining etc. My department is pretty much everything I expected. The people are really nice and driven... (Mainly driven crazy by the SVP, but otherwise...they're pretty much on task.)

I am staying in the River Terrace Inn in Napa. It's a REALLY nice hotel. My room is very comfortable and the bed is a very good substitute for my "sanctuary" at home. I have a cool view of the Napa River from my baclony (pictured above) and they have a complimentary breakfast buffet every morning. The bar looks pretty cool, too... Very unfortunate that I cannot partake................

So some things I've noticed:

On my flight from Columbus to Vegas, I was the only black person on board.
On my flight from Vegas to Sacamento, I was the only black passenger on board...one of the flight attendants was black... lol
Out of 212 employees of my company's Napa office, there are probably a total of 10 black people.
When I went to Target last night, I saw no black people... LOL

There are a lot of hispanics and asians, but hardly any African-Americans. It's actually pretty interesting how drastically the demographic can change from one part of the country to the next. Being the person I am, I notice these things... I can't help it.

The SVP's assistant it taking me out to downtown Napa so I can check it out and do a little shopping. I'm actually looking forward to that. 3 hours to go...

Well, I have another meeting to attend in 10 mintues...so I best get prepared.

I plan on writing in my pregnancy journal later tonight.

T.G.I.F.!

2007-02-23T08:48:00.000-05:00

T hank G od I t's F riday! There are some days when that phrase takes on more meaning than it does on others... Today is one such day! This week has been long and trying for me... There has been much to get done at work and my Accounting class continues to be a headache...not to mention it was the last week I had to teach for the show. I ended up holding a pure dance rehearsal on Sunday for 2 hours to teach 2 dances and review the others. Last night was more review and I taught 1 more...and we cut 1, so that helped! 2 nights ago I left my portfolio with my W-2s and other important documents at class and so I was stressing about that. In addition, the test that was scheduled for that night was moved to Monday...when I am out of town on business. My only option is to take it in the testing center, which I assumed would be prior to Monday. Well, my professor wrote me yesterday and told me that I can take it tomoBy the grace of God, it turns out that one of my classmates picked it up for me...so I will pick that up on my lunch. And now, it's FRIDAY!

I am so in need of some rest... I still have a test for my "workstation configuration" class tomorrow, but plan to go to bed as earlier as I can tonight. I fly out to Napa on Sunday and totally plan on sleeping on the plane to Vegas...and getting some early rest on Sunday evening.

Too bad I can't have that well deserved Jack and Coke.......................... C'est la vie!

Early Valentine's

2007-02-13T16:32:00.000-05:00

So the night that I made my last post, Leonard came home with a ring! It is the most beautiful thing I have ever seen! He was really smart and took Kim and Julie with him. I had such a bad day and it was the best surprise ever! Obviously, with the pregnancy, I expected it at some point, but not this soon. And Kim reassured me that he had come to her at the beginning of January (before we even ever found out) to ask her advice. But, I knew we were going to get engaged EVENTUALLY, regardless of the baby...

Our friends had probed me for information about what kind of gold and size and stuff the Friday before, and I truly thought nothing of it. In light of everything else that is going on. They had me trying on their rings and all kinds of stuff. I was truly oblivious.

So, his proposal was really cute. As I said, I had been home sleeping before I had rehearsal while Leonard went to the gym (and apparently to pick up the ring, too.) When he got home, he acted like he was going to get into bed with me and picked up this pillow his sister made for me for Christmas... (The pillow has a digital cloth photo of us sewn onto it.) [Well just the past weekend I was joking around with him about how I didn't have a ring... And the pillow represents are love... So, I picked up the pillow and said, "Do you know what this is? It's love without a ring!" And I threw it across the room. We totally laughed about it and that was the end of that.] So as he picked up the pillow he says, "You know, baby, I think something fell out of this pillow when you threw it the other day." And, as a total sucker, I say, "You think so?" as I start to shake it and said, "Yeah, it does seem a little flat...maybe some stuffing or something fell out." Then he says, "I think it was this..." as he hands me the box with the ring. All I could say was "Are you serious??" And then he had me turn on the light and open it up! It was so cool... And he looks at me and says, "SO, what do you say??" To which I said, "Of course I'll marry you!" Needless to say, I'm a very happy lady!!!

The ring is unbelievably unique. I can't find it anywhere online to get a good picture of it...and taking one has not done it justice. But, it's designer is Christopher Slowinski...with his patented "crisscut" diamond. It looks very antique and I doubt anyone will ever have a ring like mine! It's so very cool...and it's white gold! To describe the setting I will give you the actual description from the appraisal: "One crisscut center with pave' set diamond trim, pave' set diamonds down shank."I've always wanted a white gold ring! So here are the pictures I took of the actual ring. And here are also pictures of what the crisscut diamond looks like...and I actually found the same detail on my band on another ring from the Christopher Designs site.

Just not "right"... It's COLD. And I'm tired.

2007-02-08T17:09:00.000-05:00

So today was a bad day for me on the pregnancy side... I posted that in my pregnancy journal. Long story short, I'm just not right. Other than that, it's cold... The picture is from my weather bug, I snagged this morning from my PC. Can you believe that? -3 degrees. Insane. I do NOT like the cold. Needless to say, I'm going to take a nap before my rehearsal tonight. I have been so exhausted lately...which is totally expected. I just wish I could magically find some energy somewhere. Doing a little too much right now. After the middle of March, things will slow down.

BIG NEWS!

2007-02-02T20:57:00.000-05:00

So now that we have told our nearest and dearest friends, I can post my news here in my blog! This past Saturday Leonard and I found out that we are expecting a baby... I'm so unbelieveably excited. It's all that I can think about... It's literally consuming everything I do. It was so hard to work this week and I fear it's only going to get worse. Although I am really early in the pregnancy and it's a big faux-pas to tell folks this soon, we just can't keep the excitement in...and keeping it from our friends was killing us. We have decided, however, to wait to tell our parents until we have the first prenatal appointment on Monday, February 12th. We just want to make sure everything is okay and going well before we get their hopes up. I'm cool with that, and telling our friends was probably the best thing we could do for support right now.

I have started a pregnancy journal on pregnancy.org and I plan on maintaining it. Here is the link to my journal: http://www.pregnancy.org/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=664464 It is also located in my "LINKS" section to the right.

I will continue to post here in my blog about everything unrelated to my pregnancy and some things related, but the for the most part, the plan is to keep them separated.

I wake up every morning and thank God every day for this blessing...

I CAN'T BELIEVE I'M GOING TO HAVE A BABY!

2007

2007-01-30T08:28:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it's the end of January already. I have been meaning to post an entry about the new year and what I hope comes to pass. Hoping not to sound like a broken record, but I'm not one to make "resolutions", in the sense that society usually defines. When most people set out to make resolutions, they usually are resolving to make a change... Change is really hard for me and often times I find I am set in my ways. A resolution is more so a statement or expression of a formal decision...(to many...a decision to make change.)

I much rather like setting goals for the year. This year I don't have too many goals... Last year I was successful at achieving most, if not all, the things on my list. I lost weight, I went back to school, I grew deeper spiritually and completed my catechism...

So this year, I have a list of HOPES, if you will:

I hope to at least get engaged before year's end...

...so that I can hopefully start a family soon.

I hope to continue my studies and not allow my lack of motivation discourage me.

I hope to maintain my fitness habits and also incorporate an even more healthy diet.

I hope to exercise my faith with stronger intentions.

I hope to keep my sanity through the changes at work, (resulting from the recent acquistion of the company for which I work.)

And last, but certainly not least, I hope to stay in contact and spend more time with my family and those that I love.

I'm praying these things will come to pass. God willing...

It's looking a lot like winter...

2007-01-21T14:33:00.000-05:00

Looks like Old Man Winter has finally made his grand entrance! Today it snowed. Although this isn't technically the first snow we've seen, it is the first snowfall of significance. As usual on a Sunday morning, I get up at 7:45am to get ready for 9am mass. After I have taken my shower, I get Leonard up. Since I was still feeling under the weather, he actually made it downstairs before I and as I'm finishing getting my gym bag together I hear, "Midnight, you're a reversed Dalmation!" (This is what happens to Midnight when he goes out while it's snowing...he comes in with white spots. Too bad I didn't get a picture of this.) We both eat some breakfast and head out to a nice coating of snow on the road. As we pull out of our cul de sac we began to realize how slick it actually is... By the time we reach the main road, we are surprised that it really isn't any better. Hopeful that the I-70 and I-270 would be more clear, we proceed to the freeway. The on ramp is just as coated as the road...and as it turned out, the freeways were no better. As we got to 270...at a 25mph crawl we decide that we're not making it to mass today and it's best to turn around. So, to the first exit we go...

Fortunately, it is Sunday...all of our grocery shopping is done and we have no where pressing to be. These are the days when it is best to just stay off the roads until something has been done to improve driving conditions. Driving in this weather always makes me a little nervous.

I actually wasn't even expected all of this snow... An hour later the back yard was covered and it continued to snow for a couple of more hours straight. I am certain there is a good 2 inches out there (if not more)...almost out of nowhere.

Back to Blogging

2007-01-20T14:51:00.000-05:00

Today I am sick. I've actually been sick for the past few days. I'm not quite sure what's going on, just that I'm not getting any better because I'm doing a very bad job of resting. Presently, I have lost my voice...yet, I keep trying to talk so it's only getting worse...

I usually try to write blogs when I have something great to say...but today I just have some time to type. I actually did have some cool things to write about...like my 30th birthday, New Year's Eve and my recent trip to New Orleans, but time has dearly escaped me. But to sum a few of those events up:

My birthday, the 29th of December, was unforgettable...to say the least, spent with good friends and overall had a good time. I also must say I am very content with being 30. (before dinner on my birthday...)

I took it easy on New Year's as I had my fill of partying just 2 days prior, yet rang in the New Year with those I consider to be my most genuine friends. I've always believed that the person (or people) you are with when the clock strikes 12, those are the ones with which you will spend the entire year. (So far, it's been true for me...)

New Orleans was yet another wondeful experience! I believe that everyone should get down to the French Quarter at least once in their life time. It is filled with such great culture, music and FOOD! (The Mississippi in the morning)

At this point, I'm trying to sit back and relax...so hopefully I get well. My life is a little busy at the moment as I am once again taking class for the quarter, trying to maintain my fitness regimen and work has once again made me its slave. (The company I work for was recently acquired and with the merger comes many technological changes...in which I will have a great part.) I actually decided that I'm going to take a breath and not let it stress me out too much.

I will have another blog really soon!

Long time... No blog.

2006-12-18T21:04:00.000-05:00

**I started this blog on December 18, 2006, as it is so dated**

A friend of mind recently got all sentimental on me and reminded me how important friendships are. I turn 30 next week. "...30 next week." How odd does that sound? At this point in my life, I realize more and more each day how much it is a blessing to be alive...and to have the friends that I have. There are many people in this world who don't make it to 30. I have no complaints...but, unfortnately, few regrets. My friends get me through the days...most times, unknowingly. I can think about the relationships...(life long friendships...) I have formed over the past 10, 5 and even 2 years and it makes me happy to know I have such good people in my life. I find myself looking forward to our next outings...and even the times where I can run to their desks to vent..beacause, even if they don't care or are tired of hearing me whine...they still listen as if they do care. :) And there are also the times when they support the things I do, and even the things members of my family do by showing up to events and what not. It's unreal. There are a lot of folks in this world who don't have any people they can truly call friends...and barely acquaintances. I am one of the blessed few that can honestly say, "I have friends." These are the folks who would go out of their way for you...do things for you when they are tired...or make exceptions to their plans... Some times, to me, it seems surreal. But, at the end of the day, I know what's up.

So, cheers to you my dear friends... You all know who you are. Thank you som much for being such an important and necessary part of my life. Here's to my serenity as made possible through my relationships!

Here are a few pictures of me and my FRIENDS:

~ Me and one of my "most favorite people in the world," Nick. (The friend who inspired this blog.)
~Sarah, one of my longest and dearest friends with whom I didn't go to school.
~Kim, although I have only known her for a short period of time...it seems like it's been a life time.

((I have more pictures to add! For some reason, now that I am editing it 2 weeks later, I can't add them...but when I do it will include, Julie, Peter and of course, Leonard!))

It's been 2 years...

2006-11-22T07:53:00.000-05:00

...since Leonard and I started dating. What a marvelously, wonderful 2 years it has been! I have never been happier in my life. I know in my heart of hearts that I am going to spend the rest of my life with this man! How grand it is to be so certain of something...

We celebrated, once again, in a cabin in Hocking Hills. Appropriately, it is named "The Anniversary" cabin. We were there for our 6 "monthiversary" and returned for this milestone. I didn't want the weekend to end. It was totally about "us." We did nothing but relax and enjoy each other's company...cuddling, endulging in a varitey of alcholic bevearges, hanging out in the hot tub, watching movies...and even got to watch OSU beat Michigan!

And the best gift yet...was a card. I nearly cried when I read it. It was so unbelieveably sincere and I could tell that he put his heart into choosing it and composing the genuine message inside. It was perfect. (Almost better than getting a ring... LOL)

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

2006-10-31T16:22:00.000-05:00

When I was younger we rarely celebrated Halloween. And it really wasn't like it was something we weren't allowed to do...more like something we just didn't do. We always participated in the school costume parades and on rarest of occasions, we would pass out candy... But we NEVER went trick or treating. At some point in my childhood I used to think it was because Halloween was "evil"... As I got a little older that theory didn't make any sense to me...seeing that we would still dress up for school...and never seemed to miss "It's The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown!" That's when I figured the trick-or-treat thing was just our parents being overprotective (as usual...)

By the time I reached my teens, however, I started to wonder whether or not it was an "evil" thing to celebrate. A lot of that was brought on by my highly religious grandmother, and my uncertainty about my own spirituality. Now that I am an adult, I have come to believe that there is nothing wrong with it...as long as I'm not worshiping the devil or anything...I'm free to do what I please in terms of acknowledging the day.

I recently received and article from About.com, (to where I have a subscription to "About Catholicsim...",) that gave the Catholic point of view of Halloween. Without pasting in the entire article, it basically reinforced my new found belief. The day of Halloween was actually determined by a Roman Catholic Pope in association with All Saints Day, November 1, 2006. All Saints Day is a Catholic Feast day in which we celebrate those who have died. The eve before the celebration was dubbed "All Hallowe'en." During the 15th century in the days of the Black Death, people started wearing costumes...to remind them of the own mortality. Americans later added in "trick-or-treating."

http://catholicism.about.com/cs/holidays/a/halloween02.htm

Needless to say, I celebrated to the fullest this year...as the "Bride of 'White Trash Dracula'"! :)

BUSY

2006-09-29T06:41:00.000-05:00

I have been unbelieveably busy lately. But I really can't complain. I don't mind being busy. After all, Merriam-Webster defines busy as "engaged in action." So, it means I have something to do...and I'm not bored. At this point, I'm not too busy that I'm losing my mind, but busy enough to be classified as such. Presently, I am taking 3 classes at school, working full-time...and quite some over time, planning my high school class reunion (pretty much on my own) and planning my boyfriend's birthday bash. The only thing I wouldn't possibly mind adding is a choreography gig... At that point, I would probably loose my mind. LOL So, I okay with it. Just really haven't had the time to write any blogs worth reading...............

My Baby Brother...

2006-09-18T20:57:00.000-05:00

~ Ages 15 and 3
~(2 vs. 18) ...isn't a baby anymore. My brother, Brandon, turned 18 yesterday. 18! I can't believe it. It seems like just yesterday he was attached to my hip. I'll never forget the day he was born. I was almost 12 years old and had just started 6th grade. My sister (nearly 13/7th grade) and I got into a fight with a couple of girls on the way home from school. Turns out Candace owed one of the chicks 75 cents! Can you believe that? 75 cents and they're ready to kick our asses! Well, as we believed was the right thing to do...and actually sensed some urgency to get home...we kept walking while the girls (and what seemed like half the school) followed us. Long story short...we essentially got our butts beat, because we didn't fight back. The girl who Candace owed the money to got a good lick in and put a knot on her head...I came away without a scratch (the other girl who was trying to jump on my back was smaller than me and I easily threw her off a few times.) At the time, our walk was about 25 minutes from the house...the fight lasted anywhere from 10-15 minutes. The last 10 minutes we were sprinting home crying and ticked off, only to get home and find out that we were locked out of the house {we didn't have keys at the time} and a note telling us to go to our grandmother's who lived across the street (literally.) As were heading over, our neighbors told us that our mother's water broke at a bus stop downtown and that we were supposed to go to our grandmother's. We get there, Candace all banged up...and we had to tell our aunts, uncle, and grandmother the story...who were very disappointed because we didn't fight back. That same sentiment was shared by our father when he arrived a few hours later... He yelled at us unlike anything I could ever remember...(stressed maybe??) before he even told us what was going on with Mom. Her water broke around 2pm on Friday, September 16th. She ended up having some complications and delivered Brandon around 2am on September 17th by caesarian... He was 1 month premature, weighing in at only 4lbs.

From the time he was born until I left the house at 18 (he was 6) we were inseparable. I literally was this kid's 2nd Mom. I took care of him all the time...even Candace hardly participated in "babysitting." When I left the house, I know it was hard on him, but I didn't realize it until he was much older. Once he got into high school I tried my hardest to participate more in his life...even if that meant being his chauffeur at times... It was worth it. I'd do anything for that kid within my means. He's my heart. Happy Birthday, Brandon!

~ On his 18th birthday.

Old Friends

2006-09-17T17:15:00.000-05:00

"I never had any friends later on like the ones I had when I was twelve. Jesus, does anyone?" ~ Stand By Me (1986)

Last night I went to dinner with some old friends. These were the friends I made in 6th grade (one of them even in 5th.) These were the friends that you would write notes to every night, even though you would see them the next day and talk to them all day long anyway. These were the friends, that in those notes you would write: "Friends 4ever"...and if you were us: "Friends Forever Forget this and you die!" Those were the days. Life was simple, yet we were in a hurry to grow up. Grow up and grow apart, apparently.

Last night was great. I hadn't seen the girl who I grew to call my "best friend" in about 15 years. I found her on classmates last year. Another girl, I had seen after she mailed a letter to my parents house with her married name on the return address...about 8 years ago. The last I had made contact with after 9/11 and I was a on big kick to find everyone who ever meant anything to me...lucky for me...the friend is a he and his last name remained the same. :) I've hung out with him about once a year since 2002 and within the last year or so have seen him from time to time as we work out at the same gym. :) My "best friend" said, "You know, although we all look different, we all look the same." It was too funny, yet so true. All of our personalities were the same...mannerisms while speaking unchanged...only time had passed. It was almost like we picked up where we left off. Such a good feeling.

At this point, I am determined to keep in touch with them and have had them all send me their contact information so I can distribute. And I believe it will happen. I actually have been successful in staying in very good touch with 2 of my friends I made in that era...one from 5th grade, Annette, (who coincidentally later becomes my sister-in-law) and another when I was 6th...my genuine friend, Peter. So, I know it can be done...

The quote above is one of my favorites, and up until recently, I believed it was a 100% true. I still believe there is a lot of truth in it, but I have been fortunate to find a group of friends, whose friendships are comparable to those of the ones I had when I was 12. There's nothing like it. I think it helps keep us young and sane.

Life

2006-09-15T10:06:00.000-05:00

I'm writing because I realize it's been nearly a month since I've written last. I really don't have anything to say. At this point, life is what I'm making it and I am content. I'm actually more than content... I'm pretty happy. I have an AMAZING boyfriend, a family who LOVES me genuinely and everyone gets along, FANTASTIC friends, no enemies (that I know of) and I'm finally getting my life together.

There are only a couple things at this point that would make my life complete...and hopefully those things will come to pass within the next couple of years, GOD WILLING.

"You Trippin'"

2006-08-23T20:02:00.000-05:00

Went out last Friday night with my boyfriend and a few of our friends, in addition to his ex-roommate and the folks he was hanging with that night. We actually had a blast. I absolutely love going out and "shaking my bottom," (as one of my friends so eloquently puts it.) But, shortly before we left, right after I closed out my tab and was heading back to my man, I ran into a very rude dude...

CONVERSATION:

Dude: "So what are you doing dancing all over that white boy?"
Me: "...Because he's my boyfriend." (And I smile...)
Dude: "You trippin'."
Me: "Oh, I don't discriminate... I was already married to a black man..." (And I smiled again...)
Dude: "You trippin'."

At that point I walked away...

Obviously, the "rude dude" was a black man. AND obviously jealous because I wasn't dancing "all over him..." But, I couldn't stop thinking about it and was noticeably bothered. And not really sure why? For as ignorant as it was...it's not like it hadn't happened before. I've learned to deal with it...or so I thought.

Needless to say, we all know how I feel about that issue. No need to rehash. But, it was kind of coincidental, as one of my cousins had just blogged about identity and society's views of black and white and how races mix, rather the issues and/or situations that come of that "mixing"...Etc.

Long story short, I love my man! I wouldn't care if he was green. I'd still love him. Love him, love him, love him.

~This was taken a little after I was seen "dancing all over" my man... ;)~

Morning Sky

2006-08-17T14:38:00.000-05:00

I've always been fond of sunrises and sunsets. They all seem to have pretty unique colors and their hues. It always is interesting to me how different the sky looks when you are in different parts of the country...or even the world. And when it comes down to it...it's all the same sky. This morning when I let Midnight (my dog) out I caught a sight of one of the most beautiful skys I have seen in a while. I immediately ran in the house and got my camera and ended up wasting about 10 minutes taking pictures of it. Such a great way to start the day! What do you think?

TEDDY

2006-08-11T09:02:00.000-05:00

****This post was inspired by "Art Dog's Life" post entitled "dear teddy*"***

As instructed in "dear teddy*," I gave my teddy bear a hug from dogfaeriex5. :) And as the above mentions, I was inspired to take a photo of him and tell his story.

My teddy bear's name is Teddy. (Obviously, not very original for a 5 year-old.) Nonetheless, Teddy was in fact my second teddy bear and not my first. The first I had when I was 4 year's old. I used to carry him around with me everywhere...and don't even remember whether or not he even had a name. But, he was a smaller bear, that would just fit in my 4 year-old arms. At that time, we were living in a complex of apartments in Westerville (as I was told.) I remember the complex vividly...how green everything was, (the grounds were maintained well,) and we all had patios enclosed by wood privacy fences. In the days when it was safe to run around without too much parental supervision we literally would bounce around from one apartment to another and play in the yard. There were so many of us kids that everyone's parents trusted the others to keep and eye and they always knew where we were. Our ages ranged from 3 - 12. One such kid, (I believe his name was Mikey,) was much older than I and we considered him the neighborhood bully. Not recalling clearly the circumstances that led up to the horrific ordeal, but Mikey and one of his friends somehow got a hold of my teddy bear and ripped him into pieces. Literally. I remember it like it was yesterday. They took him by each arm and just pulled... I can still see his stuffing flying everywhere. What a traumatic experience for a 4 year-old! I cried and cried for days... I was devastated. When I finally got my bearings I remember asking my parents for a new bear. And not just any bear, but "A GREAT, BIG, GIANT TEDDY BEAR." I would imagine that I got obnoxious about it at some point, and even eventually asked Santa for it. (It was summer when the other bear was destroyed...and we actually even moved that fall before my sister started kindergarten.) But, I was persistent. And too my grand surprise Christmas morning, I awoke to exactly what I had been wishing for over the past months... "A GREAT, BIG, GIANT TEDDY BEAR!" At the time, I was 4 days shy of 5 and he was nearly as big as I was when standing (I was only a head taller than he...)

Over the years, I took him very few places around other kids, in fear of something else happening. But, on most family outings to Alum Creek or to my grandmother's, there Teddy was in tow. My mother being as paranoid as she was about us bringing ticks back from the park would always wash him in the washer...and eventually he became flat, yet with very little wear. My brother was born when I was 12 and I remember us giving him a bunch of our stuffed animals (as loners), somehow, Teddy managed to stay on my bed... Shortly after I moved out when I was 18, my mother took it upon herself to restuff him as a surprise and even made him an outfit (of a pair of my little brother's old short...and a vest made by hand.) For the past 12 years, he's been traveling with me through my "adult" life... Always in whatever room I deemed my office, with my other stuffed animals (reacquired from my brother as he got older.) There he sits to this day beside my computer desk, amongst the others and still the biggest of them all...my "GREAT, BIG, GIANT TEDDY BEAR."

Eighteen

2006-08-07T09:11:00.000-05:00

So my boyfriend's sister turned 18 on the 1st of August. My little brother will be 18 on the 17 of September. It's amazing how time flies. I remember turning 18 and thinking of all the stuff I could do because I was 18, but the stuff I really wanted to do I couldn't do until I was 21. Unlike my brother, I was 18 most of my senior year of high school... And Leo's sister will be 18 the entire year. Being 18 while you are still in school is the same as being 17. Didn't mean a thing to me. Only that I didn't have to take Driver's Ed to get my license...

But, did you know you can scan alcohol (if you work on a cash register) when you are 18? (I thought you had to be 21.) Some decent (non-fast food) jobs don't even let you work until you're 18. 18 is the legal age to vote...and enlist. So you are old enough to die for your country, but you can't get a drink............... In France, there really isn't a drinking age... You can pretty much drink whenever you want, especially in private. Publically, however, the legal purchase age is 16. (Although when I was there, you could order a happy meal with a beer...) In the U.K. the age is 18. Why is that such a universal number for becoming an adult? Who dictated that?

Alas, I'm still stuck on the time flying part, though. When I was 18, my little brother was 6. 6! So yeah, 12 years have gone by and the only thing I have to show for it is more responsibility and more bills. Turning 18 didn't really change my life. Living on my own did.