When was the last time you heard me bitch about Savannah? Oh, has it only been a day? Hm, time goes by fast, huh. Well, I don't care...I fucking dislike Savannah.
Despite all of the great things to like, or dare I say, even LOVE, about this town, there are just so many issues that just get under your skin. Savannah trys to cloak a sophisticate air around what is essentially a year long Spring Break. It wants to be creative, sultry, cosmopolitan. But it's hard to be all of those things when you're allowed to walk around town with a plastic cup filled with beer. It's proud of it's 'southern hospitality.' But being hospitable means that instead of verbally sneering you, they'll just ignore you (why, isn't that nicer?).
Savannah is like that scene in Beetlejuice, where Gina Davis and Alec Baldwin are in the 'other-world' waiting room. No, it's worse than that. This is the place where big city Northerners have come when they've given up.
Politics are just as cut-throat at any big town. They count on community ignorance and inactivity, and it's amply provided. Crime here is frequent and difficult to control. Cultural entertainment is presumptuous and pompous. The good stuff is so far underground it's in China by now. New residents are like the tourist; only stopping by for the night on the way to a bigger tourist-trap of a town.
To be honest, I'm not having a bad day. I'm totally lucid and am in a focused place right now. I've made friends with a few genuinely great people. And I've carved a little place for myself. I think I'm social enough to make the best of any situation or location. I just want better for myself. And it's not here.
2.07.2012
12.15.2011
christmas time
I am determined to make this a wonderful Christmas; so help me god if it kills me and everyone within a 15 foot radius. I finally have the space to put up my tree, decorate my windows and other interesting architectural accents, make wreaths (yes, I made two so far), and a closet big enough to really hide the presents. I even made homemade bows. Me...handmade....fluffed bows made from ribbon with wires...too cool.
The best part of all....I am constructing a play kitchen for the babe. I was all set to purchase a wooden one from somewhere and then I saw a mommy-blogger's site and she had made a toddler-sized coffee shop made from cardboard. Genius! Toddlers don't know their own strength, so if it gets destroyed or if she grows out of it I won't cry from having spend over a hundred dollars on a toy that lasted for a short while. Plus, I can put all of that money I spent on accessories for the kitchen, like a play coffee maker and toaster so my daughter can get into the habit of making mommy breakfast. I hope I can remember to take pics of the process. I've got one piece 80% constructed. Woohoo, mom's on fire and she's smokin'!
Ah, now for the worst part of all....no snow, no friends, no big f'in tree surrounded by tourists. I'm sick over not being in NYC this year. My in-laws were in town earlier this week and one of them asked my other if he missed NY. "Yeah, sometimes." Insert knife in heart. Every time I asked that to him the answer was always, no. I was starting to believe that he either A. didn't have a heart, or B. was protecting mine because I made a huge leap of faith to follow him down the I-95 corridor for a job when he already had a pretty good job back in NY. *sigh*
I guess I'm trying to overcompensate the Christmas cheer around here. Oh well, at least I'll have my creature comforts and my handmade wreaths. (and my family).
The best part of all....I am constructing a play kitchen for the babe. I was all set to purchase a wooden one from somewhere and then I saw a mommy-blogger's site and she had made a toddler-sized coffee shop made from cardboard. Genius! Toddlers don't know their own strength, so if it gets destroyed or if she grows out of it I won't cry from having spend over a hundred dollars on a toy that lasted for a short while. Plus, I can put all of that money I spent on accessories for the kitchen, like a play coffee maker and toaster so my daughter can get into the habit of making mommy breakfast. I hope I can remember to take pics of the process. I've got one piece 80% constructed. Woohoo, mom's on fire and she's smokin'!
Ah, now for the worst part of all....no snow, no friends, no big f'in tree surrounded by tourists. I'm sick over not being in NYC this year. My in-laws were in town earlier this week and one of them asked my other if he missed NY. "Yeah, sometimes." Insert knife in heart. Every time I asked that to him the answer was always, no. I was starting to believe that he either A. didn't have a heart, or B. was protecting mine because I made a huge leap of faith to follow him down the I-95 corridor for a job when he already had a pretty good job back in NY. *sigh*
I guess I'm trying to overcompensate the Christmas cheer around here. Oh well, at least I'll have my creature comforts and my handmade wreaths. (and my family).
10.27.2011
it's not my party and I'll still cry if I want to
A family member of mine is getting married this weekend. Instead of being happy, I'm pissing and moaning (internally, of course) about the whole thing. It cuts into my Halloween weekend. It takes 8 hours to drive to the destination and 8 hours back. With a toddler, that means two days of travel for a 3 hour event. I was asked to be a bridesmaid. I spent $40 on a dress and $140 on alterations. The dress HAD to be floor length. Going to this event cuts into any other potential friend or family visiting. I don't even get along with this family member. I'm just participating for the sake of the family.
Ugh!! I have so many conflicted and unresolved issues with this person and the family has a general consensus to NOT bring up grievances with this person for fear of causing problems. This person has spend their entire teenage and adult life causing others problems and we don't discuss with this person because we don't want to upset them. CRAP!
I just had to type this out because there are some other people in my life who do not want to hear my complaining. So, I say, thank you. Thank you, dear faceless internet, for not judging and just being there to hear my bitching and moaning.
Ugh!! I have so many conflicted and unresolved issues with this person and the family has a general consensus to NOT bring up grievances with this person for fear of causing problems. This person has spend their entire teenage and adult life causing others problems and we don't discuss with this person because we don't want to upset them. CRAP!
I just had to type this out because there are some other people in my life who do not want to hear my complaining. So, I say, thank you. Thank you, dear faceless internet, for not judging and just being there to hear my bitching and moaning.
10.25.2011
just sayin'
I'm not crazy about Savannah. Oh, sure, the historic homes are beautiful, there are some good entertainments, the culture is better than decent, and the people watching is top notch. But......
....I hate that everyone who lives here is looking for another place to move to or they are southern-snob. Either way, it's very hard to be friends with them.
....I hate that for all of the "food festivals" they have here (and OMG, peeps, they have one every month), the food is sub-par. Seriously, people, just because it's the south and because the perception is that everyone here is a raving alcoholic does not mean it's okay to soak your baklava in ouzu. It taste like ass.
....I hate that everything of general necessity has to be gotten to via car. I live in a great "walkable" neighborhood. I should be able to walk to most of the places I need to go to, like the doctor's office.
....I hate that crime is just something everyone here lives with, because it happens to just about everyone.
....I hate that I don't feel at home in the city that is supposed to be known for it's southern hospitality.
....I hate that everyone who lives here is looking for another place to move to or they are southern-snob. Either way, it's very hard to be friends with them.
....I hate that for all of the "food festivals" they have here (and OMG, peeps, they have one every month), the food is sub-par. Seriously, people, just because it's the south and because the perception is that everyone here is a raving alcoholic does not mean it's okay to soak your baklava in ouzu. It taste like ass.
....I hate that everything of general necessity has to be gotten to via car. I live in a great "walkable" neighborhood. I should be able to walk to most of the places I need to go to, like the doctor's office.
....I hate that crime is just something everyone here lives with, because it happens to just about everyone.
....I hate that I don't feel at home in the city that is supposed to be known for it's southern hospitality.
5.17.2011
My brain can't catch up to my eyes.
I know you've missed my "alleged misreadings." Here's a new one for ya'll:
Actual article title: "Aerial spraying under way"
What I read: "Anal spraying under way"
I don't even KNOW what anal spraying is. But it does sound messy.
Actual article title: "Aerial spraying under way"
What I read: "Anal spraying under way"
I don't even KNOW what anal spraying is. But it does sound messy.
3.26.2011
lowcountry news
Wow, I am really behind in reporting my happenings in Slow'vannah. Where to start?
Eliza is growing and changing so much every day. When we go out for our daily walk, lots of people comment on how cute she is or giggle when she waves to them. If someone stops to chat, they are thoroughly impressed with how social and talkative she is. Well, not full words talkative, but when we practice talking at home she thinks she's being understood and therefore everyone in the world can understand her, too. Like, full on conversations. With inflections, dramatic pauses, and sometimes, run-on sentences. Too cute.
Her sign language is good. Really good. With in the last month, she's picked up 5 new signs. She's recently begun to use them by her own imitative. Today, she put two of them together to make a sentence (milk, please). I'm pretty sure I've never be prouder of anything in my entire life!
Oh, and one last thing... she gives kisses. Big, opened mouth, wet kisses, complete with a great big "aaaahhh" thrown in for emphasis. I adore it every time.
I need videos of all of these moments. Our camera had died. I put PK in charge of the task of purchasing a new one. I'm pretty sure he's waiting on me to do something. I have no f-in idea what that something is, but when he wakes up from his nap with Eliza I'll have to use my powers of nagging for good, not evil, to get him on this.
We've starting planting. We found a seed store and purchased peat pots, potting soil and seeds to begin our foray into home gardening. That was last week. Veggies, flowers and herbs were planted and so far we have a few seedlings that we are patting our selves on the back for. Mesclun, broccoli, radishes, and a bunch of wallflowers and marigolds are beginning to make themselves known. As for tomatoes and lavender (the two I really want flourishing in my garden) and a spattering of other random fun plants, they have yet to arrive. Maybe this week.
Eliza and I attend an art class at a really cool railroad museum. The last 4 weeks we have gone to The Roundhouse Railroad Museum to take a Toddler Art class meant for kids under 2. Nice and messy. Eliza seems to like being there and adores the teacher, but she'd rather take things from one table to another than play with the paints. I'm not sure if it's because she doesn't have the manual dexiterity to hold onto and manipulate crayons and brushes or if she's not really into it. At home, I'll keep encouraging and trying some new art projects for her to do (perhaps a toddler-safe form of collage or finger paint). But she recognizes what a painting is and appreciates it aesthetically. I'm blown away by the thought that my daughter already has an aesthetic opinion. Amazing. I think when this class is done, we'll try a music class. Hopefully nothing as manic as the music class we took at Kidville.
PK starts the new academic quarter on Monday. I think he really likes the challenges of what he's doing and has a new appreciation of what it takes to be a college professor. He also puts in 150% of his time and energy to that job.
Me, well, I tried to sign up for a class at the college, but since it was a free class as a part of the hub's benefits I'm not sure if I was even eligible to take the class at all. Since the class starts on Tuesday and I haven't heard back from admissions if I could even take the class, I'm taking that as a sign that this quater is not a go. That's okay. I can either attend a Stitch n Bitch locally or take a cake decorating class at Michaels. But both happen on the same night. What would you do? I'm sure it doesn't matter what I take, as long as I get out of the house. It's dawning on me that I'm meeting potential friends through my daughter. Unknowingly, she's my social secretary. I'm not sure how to feel about that.
Eliza is growing and changing so much every day. When we go out for our daily walk, lots of people comment on how cute she is or giggle when she waves to them. If someone stops to chat, they are thoroughly impressed with how social and talkative she is. Well, not full words talkative, but when we practice talking at home she thinks she's being understood and therefore everyone in the world can understand her, too. Like, full on conversations. With inflections, dramatic pauses, and sometimes, run-on sentences. Too cute.
Her sign language is good. Really good. With in the last month, she's picked up 5 new signs. She's recently begun to use them by her own imitative. Today, she put two of them together to make a sentence (milk, please). I'm pretty sure I've never be prouder of anything in my entire life!
Oh, and one last thing... she gives kisses. Big, opened mouth, wet kisses, complete with a great big "aaaahhh" thrown in for emphasis. I adore it every time.
I need videos of all of these moments. Our camera had died. I put PK in charge of the task of purchasing a new one. I'm pretty sure he's waiting on me to do something. I have no f-in idea what that something is, but when he wakes up from his nap with Eliza I'll have to use my powers of nagging for good, not evil, to get him on this.
We've starting planting. We found a seed store and purchased peat pots, potting soil and seeds to begin our foray into home gardening. That was last week. Veggies, flowers and herbs were planted and so far we have a few seedlings that we are patting our selves on the back for. Mesclun, broccoli, radishes, and a bunch of wallflowers and marigolds are beginning to make themselves known. As for tomatoes and lavender (the two I really want flourishing in my garden) and a spattering of other random fun plants, they have yet to arrive. Maybe this week.
Eliza and I attend an art class at a really cool railroad museum. The last 4 weeks we have gone to The Roundhouse Railroad Museum to take a Toddler Art class meant for kids under 2. Nice and messy. Eliza seems to like being there and adores the teacher, but she'd rather take things from one table to another than play with the paints. I'm not sure if it's because she doesn't have the manual dexiterity to hold onto and manipulate crayons and brushes or if she's not really into it. At home, I'll keep encouraging and trying some new art projects for her to do (perhaps a toddler-safe form of collage or finger paint). But she recognizes what a painting is and appreciates it aesthetically. I'm blown away by the thought that my daughter already has an aesthetic opinion. Amazing. I think when this class is done, we'll try a music class. Hopefully nothing as manic as the music class we took at Kidville.
PK starts the new academic quarter on Monday. I think he really likes the challenges of what he's doing and has a new appreciation of what it takes to be a college professor. He also puts in 150% of his time and energy to that job.
Me, well, I tried to sign up for a class at the college, but since it was a free class as a part of the hub's benefits I'm not sure if I was even eligible to take the class at all. Since the class starts on Tuesday and I haven't heard back from admissions if I could even take the class, I'm taking that as a sign that this quater is not a go. That's okay. I can either attend a Stitch n Bitch locally or take a cake decorating class at Michaels. But both happen on the same night. What would you do? I'm sure it doesn't matter what I take, as long as I get out of the house. It's dawning on me that I'm meeting potential friends through my daughter. Unknowingly, she's my social secretary. I'm not sure how to feel about that.
1.18.2011
tk in the garden of good and evil
Hey y'all! The baby's sleeping, so I thought that I'd write a quick note to my loved ones and devotees.
Sooooo.... we're in Savannah and the vacation mode that I've been living in for the last month is still there. It doesn't feel quite real to be gone from NYC. Perhaps because the last year of my life there I've been uber-localized in Astoria with the baby, and haven't been my social self, that has added to my the thoughts of, "oh, I'll see so-and-so next week," and "and I'll try to see such-and-such before it closes." There was a line about 'old so-and-so' in Urinetown, but I can't quite remember how it goes. Oh, well, and off track.
I've been very adamant about living a NYC lifestyle in the south, and Savannah seems the most likely place to do that. We live in the Historic District, which is only 1 sq mile in area. Astounding! Considering Astoria was 3 square miles. And I don't nearly see as many people walking about, besides tourists, which I'm sure will pick up more towards spring. We live very, very, close to Forsyth Park and a wonderful playground (bonus) and 2 blocks away from the only grocery store that serves the neighborhood. We've found our local breakfast diner (world famous Clary's) where the waitresses already know us, and know our post man and UPS driver by first name, already. We've found one of the local bookstores (E. Shaver) and seem to be integrating ourselves in a friendly manner, thus far.
Let me dispell some thoughts and questions you may have. No, I have not seen Paula Deen in person (but I am on the look out for either one of those cute sons of her's); I have not done "the Book" tour... yet; I am waiting until Eliza is a bit older before I wait in line for Mrs. Wilkes or until one of you visit; and finally, I am not one of the groupies of the Lady Chablis.
If you haven't seen "the Movie" or read "the Book" (which is what the locals , or I believe just he tourism industry, call "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil") please do both. They are really excellent and romanticize Savannah and the Historic District to the point of making things seem like the area is one large Southern Gothic side show. The closest I've seen thus far is Mrs. Bradley, the wife of Mr Bradley of locally famous Bradley's Lock and Key. Her bleached blond, over blown-out and sprayed hair and half pound of make up make her ripe for a local legend. All I've seen in my 3 weeks of being here is a bunch of college students molding themselves into starving artists and frat boys.
I'll try to post pictures, but in the mean time, check out my FB profile for random camera phone shots. I miss you all very dearly and feel melancholy about missing out on the snow-ins this year, Christmas and New Years in the city, and warm visits over cupcakes with friends.
Hugs and kisses to everyone.
P.S. Should I change the title of my blog? I'm hesitant, because I feel you'll never really be able to take NYC away from me.
Sooooo.... we're in Savannah and the vacation mode that I've been living in for the last month is still there. It doesn't feel quite real to be gone from NYC. Perhaps because the last year of my life there I've been uber-localized in Astoria with the baby, and haven't been my social self, that has added to my the thoughts of, "oh, I'll see so-and-so next week," and "and I'll try to see such-and-such before it closes." There was a line about 'old so-and-so' in Urinetown, but I can't quite remember how it goes. Oh, well, and off track.
I've been very adamant about living a NYC lifestyle in the south, and Savannah seems the most likely place to do that. We live in the Historic District, which is only 1 sq mile in area. Astounding! Considering Astoria was 3 square miles. And I don't nearly see as many people walking about, besides tourists, which I'm sure will pick up more towards spring. We live very, very, close to Forsyth Park and a wonderful playground (bonus) and 2 blocks away from the only grocery store that serves the neighborhood. We've found our local breakfast diner (world famous Clary's) where the waitresses already know us, and know our post man and UPS driver by first name, already. We've found one of the local bookstores (E. Shaver) and seem to be integrating ourselves in a friendly manner, thus far.
Let me dispell some thoughts and questions you may have. No, I have not seen Paula Deen in person (but I am on the look out for either one of those cute sons of her's); I have not done "the Book" tour... yet; I am waiting until Eliza is a bit older before I wait in line for Mrs. Wilkes or until one of you visit; and finally, I am not one of the groupies of the Lady Chablis.
If you haven't seen "the Movie" or read "the Book" (which is what the locals , or I believe just he tourism industry, call "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil") please do both. They are really excellent and romanticize Savannah and the Historic District to the point of making things seem like the area is one large Southern Gothic side show. The closest I've seen thus far is Mrs. Bradley, the wife of Mr Bradley of locally famous Bradley's Lock and Key. Her bleached blond, over blown-out and sprayed hair and half pound of make up make her ripe for a local legend. All I've seen in my 3 weeks of being here is a bunch of college students molding themselves into starving artists and frat boys.
I'll try to post pictures, but in the mean time, check out my FB profile for random camera phone shots. I miss you all very dearly and feel melancholy about missing out on the snow-ins this year, Christmas and New Years in the city, and warm visits over cupcakes with friends.
Hugs and kisses to everyone.
P.S. Should I change the title of my blog? I'm hesitant, because I feel you'll never really be able to take NYC away from me.
9.02.2010
(uuuuuuuh)
It has taken me over 3 months to think up something to write on this blog.
And I think the well is still dry. *sigh*
And I think the well is still dry. *sigh*
5.16.2010
wouldn't it be loverly if.....
...10 Hershey's Kisses made up for a day of half-eaten meals, a 2 hour walk with a baby who refused to sleep (only to fall asleep 1 block away from home and therefore extended that walk by 30 minutes), and another "conversation" with my other about how his presence on the weekends around baby during naptimes actually IS disruptive. Realistically speaking, 10 Hershey's Kisses does not make things better.
*sigh*
Guess I'll have to eat the entire bag.
*sigh*
Guess I'll have to eat the entire bag.
3.28.2010
wasn't it sunday yesterday?
I think this is the first day since the bebe was born that I stayed up to post and futz on the interweb. Eliza is sleeping and so is her daddy and I'm okay with taking this time to get some stuff done. After all, I put her to sleep and had to get up 3 more times to calm her after she woke up. I deserve this.
On a different note, I want to say that this year the Easter Bunny is going to kick some ass. I just put together a beautiful basket for my daughter. It's filled with all sorts of goodies only an infant and her mother could love: stuffed bunnies, books, clothes, and a tummy-time toy. And I'm proud to say that all of her items are Easter and/or Spring themed (I rock!). It is also decorated in a most green way (from items I already had and all of it can be reused again). I'm also setting myself up for a few years of trying to top the greatness that I will be achieving each and every year (I'm just a little modest, aren't I?) but I'm up to the challenge.
Lastly, I love, love, love being a mommy and have an awesomely cute baby. I think that I work hard at making sure Eliza is happy, active and loved, but I didn't expect the sort of attachment that she and I have created. For example, because we're co-sleeping, she'll turn on her side towards me and with her eyes closed she'll find my nose with her hand and grab on tight to make sure I don't leave her. I think that's totally sweet, even if she inadvertently deprives me of a little oxygen every now and then.
On a different note, I want to say that this year the Easter Bunny is going to kick some ass. I just put together a beautiful basket for my daughter. It's filled with all sorts of goodies only an infant and her mother could love: stuffed bunnies, books, clothes, and a tummy-time toy. And I'm proud to say that all of her items are Easter and/or Spring themed (I rock!). It is also decorated in a most green way (from items I already had and all of it can be reused again). I'm also setting myself up for a few years of trying to top the greatness that I will be achieving each and every year (I'm just a little modest, aren't I?) but I'm up to the challenge.
Lastly, I love, love, love being a mommy and have an awesomely cute baby. I think that I work hard at making sure Eliza is happy, active and loved, but I didn't expect the sort of attachment that she and I have created. For example, because we're co-sleeping, she'll turn on her side towards me and with her eyes closed she'll find my nose with her hand and grab on tight to make sure I don't leave her. I think that's totally sweet, even if she inadvertently deprives me of a little oxygen every now and then.
I gotta put it somewhere
This is more of a Facebook profile post, but I just put something there so this will have to go on my blog...
1 avocado and 1/2 cold pita for dinner. Pitiful.
1 avocado and 1/2 cold pita for dinner. Pitiful.
2.23.2010
bad blogger, bad, bad!
I allow the baby to fall asleep while nursing and let her sleep on her Boppy on my lap. While she sleeps, I surf the internet on my conveniently located laptop (next to the couch). I Facebook stalk, catch up on the Times online. I comment, occasionally, on blogs and statuses with one free hand as my drowsy daughter holds the other one hostage. I don't protest.
Am I a bad mother for this? No. Am I a bad blogger for this? Likely. And I do feel guilty for not updating on either of my blogs.
When I think on this too much and am about to cross the bridge between being upset and being depressed I look at IPJ's blog. It makes me feel a little better when I see he hasn't written a new post in forever.
And then I think too much on this and I feel bad again, because I know he's been though alot recently and he has good reasons not to write, if he doesn't want to.
Thank goodness that pan of blondies I made this afternoon is in arms reach.
Am I a bad mother for this? No. Am I a bad blogger for this? Likely. And I do feel guilty for not updating on either of my blogs.
When I think on this too much and am about to cross the bridge between being upset and being depressed I look at IPJ's blog. It makes me feel a little better when I see he hasn't written a new post in forever.
And then I think too much on this and I feel bad again, because I know he's been though alot recently and he has good reasons not to write, if he doesn't want to.
Thank goodness that pan of blondies I made this afternoon is in arms reach.
2.06.2010
1.27.2010
1.06.2010
holy shit
That's it! I am officially one of those crazy moms. Not the type that ignores their children. You know, the type that worries about everything. I told my dad the other day that everyday I observe something about my daughter and I worry about it. Generally, my worries are around nursing; weight gain, gas, schedule, etc. For the last 3 days my concern is about poo.
Poo is a nice way of saying crap, shit, stool, feces. Even to her doctor, I can say the grownup word urinate, but I can only call her dirty diapers pooy diapers.
Anyway, I won't get into the details of her 'poo.' But I will say that so far all of the baby books I have, WebMD, BabyCenter.com, and my parents tell me that I don't have anything to be concerned with. My own instincts tell me there is not a problem. But her poo has changed, there has to be a problem, right?!
Look, I can handle the cradle cap, the baby acne, the crying at 1am, and I even was totally calm about her pink eye. But the poo has thrown me for a loop. I don't know what to say. I'm not the same girl you all have come to love. Or, I am the same crazy girl. I've just found a new level of crazy to share.
(in a small voice) Help me.
Poo is a nice way of saying crap, shit, stool, feces. Even to her doctor, I can say the grownup word urinate, but I can only call her dirty diapers pooy diapers.
Anyway, I won't get into the details of her 'poo.' But I will say that so far all of the baby books I have, WebMD, BabyCenter.com, and my parents tell me that I don't have anything to be concerned with. My own instincts tell me there is not a problem. But her poo has changed, there has to be a problem, right?!
Look, I can handle the cradle cap, the baby acne, the crying at 1am, and I even was totally calm about her pink eye. But the poo has thrown me for a loop. I don't know what to say. I'm not the same girl you all have come to love. Or, I am the same crazy girl. I've just found a new level of crazy to share.
(in a small voice) Help me.
12.30.2009
who's a super mom now?
Now that I have an addition to my family (aka: cutie-patootie baby) and money is a little tighter than before, I've been perusing sites catered to stay-at-home and working part-time mommies, looking for ideas to help make my money go further. The author of moneysavingmom.com is starting an "eat what you've got" challenge. Simple enough. Just try to use up the food that's in your pantry, minimize what you buy at the grocery, save money. I can do that. Of course my family can't do without a few staples, like milk, fresh produce, and fresh bread, but I would love to clean out my food cabinets and start fresh all over again. So, since goals that are written down are more likely to be actualized, here are my goals:
1. Start date: officially January 1st, but I can use up items in my pantry now, if I choose.
2. Duration: as long as it takes to clean out the cupboards. Afterwards the goal will be to maintain a pantry with a minimal amount of food to last through the week and/or month.
3. Output: make breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, desserts out of what we have on hand and only purchasing what is absolutely needed to supplement our meals (ex: eggs for breakfast but can also go with items on hand for baking muffins).
4. Cost: I know what I could easily spend, but let's say my goal is to spend no more than $50/week on groceries. I know that may seem high for a weekly grocery bill for two adults and an infant who's exclusively breastfeeding (solid foods around the corner), but I base that on two factors; a. my dad spend $100/week on groceries for 2 adults and 3 growing children (and this was only 15-20 years ago) and b. I want to pocket what we don't spend and put it towards paying off debt.
5. Exceptions: we should be allowed to treat ourselves. One meal per week either eaten out or as take-out. Cost of meal does not count towards grocery bill nor can it be pocketed towards debt goal either (since I could easily spend $10 - $40 for a meal out). Entertainment spending goal can be created at another time.
So, I'll do my best to document our progress. It seems like a good resolution for the new year and like an obtainable goal. Other goals for the year:
A. Save up for next Christmas. I've done this one in the past with a generally successful outcome. I save up all of the loose change we collect throughout the year and make presents for family members only and holiday cards for everyone else. This year I'm counting on the sentimental factor to help us out since we have a baby (ie: customized photo calendars or photo mugs perhaps?). A small item that can be massed produced will cost less than previous years gifts (food baskets) and shipping costs will be cheaper, too. The rest of the saved money will be spent on our daughter and anything left over will either be saved for the next Christmas or be used to pay off a bill.
B. Pay off 50% of our student loans. This is a big one, because the bulk of our debt (and likely yours too) is student loans. Damn me and my other for getting a college education and damn the bureaucracy for making obtaining a higher education so expensive. My other and I worked while going to school, had daily living expenses to pay, and ended up with a large bill to show for our combined 2 bachelors and 2 masters degrees. Once this is all paid off we can seriously save up for a down payment on our own white-picketed American dream.
C. Begin and contribute to a college savings account for our daughter. I want her to hold a part-time job while in school, but I also don't want her to be burdened with years of debt that will postpone other life goals that she will want to pursue.
D. Take mini-vacations with my family. We just got a Zipcar membership and we have big plans for the car. Staycations galore (well, maybe not galore, but hopefully once a month) that will include seeing local sites and events only accessible by automobile. Being stuck in the city can make one feel claustrophobic. Of course we will take advantage of what the city has to offer, but it would be nice to drive somewhere too.
Wow! What a long post. But what a big year we have ahead of us. I hope you have goals that you'll work towards in 2010. I say goal rather than resolution because resolutions are meant to be broken and goals are meant to be realized. Happy New Year everyone!
1. Start date: officially January 1st, but I can use up items in my pantry now, if I choose.
2. Duration: as long as it takes to clean out the cupboards. Afterwards the goal will be to maintain a pantry with a minimal amount of food to last through the week and/or month.
3. Output: make breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, desserts out of what we have on hand and only purchasing what is absolutely needed to supplement our meals (ex: eggs for breakfast but can also go with items on hand for baking muffins).
4. Cost: I know what I could easily spend, but let's say my goal is to spend no more than $50/week on groceries. I know that may seem high for a weekly grocery bill for two adults and an infant who's exclusively breastfeeding (solid foods around the corner), but I base that on two factors; a. my dad spend $100/week on groceries for 2 adults and 3 growing children (and this was only 15-20 years ago) and b. I want to pocket what we don't spend and put it towards paying off debt.
5. Exceptions: we should be allowed to treat ourselves. One meal per week either eaten out or as take-out. Cost of meal does not count towards grocery bill nor can it be pocketed towards debt goal either (since I could easily spend $10 - $40 for a meal out). Entertainment spending goal can be created at another time.
So, I'll do my best to document our progress. It seems like a good resolution for the new year and like an obtainable goal. Other goals for the year:
A. Save up for next Christmas. I've done this one in the past with a generally successful outcome. I save up all of the loose change we collect throughout the year and make presents for family members only and holiday cards for everyone else. This year I'm counting on the sentimental factor to help us out since we have a baby (ie: customized photo calendars or photo mugs perhaps?). A small item that can be massed produced will cost less than previous years gifts (food baskets) and shipping costs will be cheaper, too. The rest of the saved money will be spent on our daughter and anything left over will either be saved for the next Christmas or be used to pay off a bill.
B. Pay off 50% of our student loans. This is a big one, because the bulk of our debt (and likely yours too) is student loans. Damn me and my other for getting a college education and damn the bureaucracy for making obtaining a higher education so expensive. My other and I worked while going to school, had daily living expenses to pay, and ended up with a large bill to show for our combined 2 bachelors and 2 masters degrees. Once this is all paid off we can seriously save up for a down payment on our own white-picketed American dream.
C. Begin and contribute to a college savings account for our daughter. I want her to hold a part-time job while in school, but I also don't want her to be burdened with years of debt that will postpone other life goals that she will want to pursue.
D. Take mini-vacations with my family. We just got a Zipcar membership and we have big plans for the car. Staycations galore (well, maybe not galore, but hopefully once a month) that will include seeing local sites and events only accessible by automobile. Being stuck in the city can make one feel claustrophobic. Of course we will take advantage of what the city has to offer, but it would be nice to drive somewhere too.
Wow! What a long post. But what a big year we have ahead of us. I hope you have goals that you'll work towards in 2010. I say goal rather than resolution because resolutions are meant to be broken and goals are meant to be realized. Happy New Year everyone!
12.09.2009
What nobody talks about regarding pregnancy
Constipation.
I suspect there's a good reason for the avoidance of this subject. I, however, can not find one. It's incredibly sad when you can not do a 2. My mother suggests coffee, cereal with fiber, and walking around. Good advice. What she does not say is that it's all about maintenance from here on out. Eat fruits and veggies that are naturally high in fiber, drink lots and lots of water, and add unprocessed wheat bran to your diet.
What does this have to do with pregnancy? Well, something else no one ever mentions about pregnancy; the birthing process. Though labor pains may feel like the absolute worst period cramps you could ever have, pushing a baby out is like trying to squeeze a watermelon out of your butt. In fact, when I was told to push, I was told to bear down and push as if I had a really big poop to let out. Yes, this may be disgusting, but it's the truth (let this be a warning for anyone who is thinking about getting knocked up). The consequence... constipation (I'll let you figure that one out). Not just in the immediate days following a birth, but potentially in the following weeks to come.
So boys and girls, the lesson here is an apple a day will keep the doctor away from performing an anal exam on you. Unless he's really cute and it's the only way to get a date from him. If that's the case then I really don't know what to say or do except shake my head in shame that I am openly your friend.
I suspect there's a good reason for the avoidance of this subject. I, however, can not find one. It's incredibly sad when you can not do a 2. My mother suggests coffee, cereal with fiber, and walking around. Good advice. What she does not say is that it's all about maintenance from here on out. Eat fruits and veggies that are naturally high in fiber, drink lots and lots of water, and add unprocessed wheat bran to your diet.
What does this have to do with pregnancy? Well, something else no one ever mentions about pregnancy; the birthing process. Though labor pains may feel like the absolute worst period cramps you could ever have, pushing a baby out is like trying to squeeze a watermelon out of your butt. In fact, when I was told to push, I was told to bear down and push as if I had a really big poop to let out. Yes, this may be disgusting, but it's the truth (let this be a warning for anyone who is thinking about getting knocked up). The consequence... constipation (I'll let you figure that one out). Not just in the immediate days following a birth, but potentially in the following weeks to come.
So boys and girls, the lesson here is an apple a day will keep the doctor away from performing an anal exam on you. Unless he's really cute and it's the only way to get a date from him. If that's the case then I really don't know what to say or do except shake my head in shame that I am openly your friend.
11.17.2009
heard the news yet?
I'm sure all but the random person who reads my blog knows that I recently gave birth to a beautiful little girl. So, I'm not sure how often I'll be updating here, but I promise that I'll have rants and funny ditties that I'll want to occasionally share. For example...
I'm sitting at home, watching my other and my baby sleeping on the couch in front of me. I'm having a problem with a site that I'm trying to order from (it won't keep krap in the kart- and yes, that is an intentional misspelling, IPJ) and I'm trying to heal my very sore and very cracked nipples (yes, I'm being very blunt Isaac). I'm so completely heartbroken that I'm having problems nutritionally providing for my little girl. Pumping is a very very slow process right now, I'm feeding her almost every hour because she's getting so little milk, and I'm exhausted from the lack of sleep. It's so unfair and all I want to do is cry. I'm praying that it's not a serious infection and I am seeking the help of a lactation consultant. I hope it all works out soon. I desperately want her to grow up happy and healthy on breastmilk and not formula.
I've never felt so instantly in love before. It was a little different with my other. Several people in my life recognized that I was in love before I did and by the time I realized it it felt as if I was always in love with this person. With the baby, I look at her and I smile, perhaps cry a little (because I'm so happy), and shake my head in amazement that I was able to produce a miracle. I'm so lucky to be a mommy. Given my history with my birth parents, I feel a sense of pride when I hold her and drive to make sure I give her what I never received.
So in short, my love may keep me from writing often. I enjoy this blog community very much, but I absolutely adore my child.
I'm sitting at home, watching my other and my baby sleeping on the couch in front of me. I'm having a problem with a site that I'm trying to order from (it won't keep krap in the kart- and yes, that is an intentional misspelling, IPJ) and I'm trying to heal my very sore and very cracked nipples (yes, I'm being very blunt Isaac). I'm so completely heartbroken that I'm having problems nutritionally providing for my little girl. Pumping is a very very slow process right now, I'm feeding her almost every hour because she's getting so little milk, and I'm exhausted from the lack of sleep. It's so unfair and all I want to do is cry. I'm praying that it's not a serious infection and I am seeking the help of a lactation consultant. I hope it all works out soon. I desperately want her to grow up happy and healthy on breastmilk and not formula.
I've never felt so instantly in love before. It was a little different with my other. Several people in my life recognized that I was in love before I did and by the time I realized it it felt as if I was always in love with this person. With the baby, I look at her and I smile, perhaps cry a little (because I'm so happy), and shake my head in amazement that I was able to produce a miracle. I'm so lucky to be a mommy. Given my history with my birth parents, I feel a sense of pride when I hold her and drive to make sure I give her what I never received.
So in short, my love may keep me from writing often. I enjoy this blog community very much, but I absolutely adore my child.
11.10.2009
anticipation
Warning to BB: Don't freak out when you read this post. Just don't... please.
Are we ready? Alright. I went to the midwife yesterday to get checked out because I'm a little past due and something happened to me that wasn't one of those things I was told to look out for. I hate when that happens. I got checked up the skirt and had a fetal monitor strapped to me for 20 minutes (I have a new love for Lauren J for being hooked up to that thing while being in labor). Suffice to say, baby's doing awesome, daddy's calm, and mommy's waiting for a big obvious sign; like an Acme anvil being dropped on my head or something close to that.
Sometime around 1am this morning I started to feel uncomfortable. Really uncomfortable. Like changing-the-position-or-going-to-the-bathroom-doesn't-solve-it uncomfortable. Well, I am currently at home, still in my jammies, timing my frequent cramps. So far it's been inconsistent. For about half an hour I'll get the 30 second contractions ever 10 minutes, then I'll be 20 minutes without anything, then 30 second contractions every 5 minutes for 20 minutes. This might be Braxton-Hicks (aka false labor) contractions. Nothing to call the midwife about. (For those of you not in the know, true labor, more often than not, has a predictable pattern that begins with contractions that last for 30 seconds, ever 10 minutes, for an hour or more. The contractions then begin to increase in length of time and occur closer together as the baby nears.)
All I can think is: when will I start to notice a pattern? I wonder if I can take Tylenol for this pain? And, how can I get my hands on a big bowl of Pasta Carbonara? I might be more concerned with the pasta than anything else at this point. But that's okay.
Don't worry, as soon as I end up going to the hospital the phone-tree will begin. In the mean-time hang tight, cross your fingers for me, and will someone please stop by with a pasta lunch for me?
Are we ready? Alright. I went to the midwife yesterday to get checked out because I'm a little past due and something happened to me that wasn't one of those things I was told to look out for. I hate when that happens. I got checked up the skirt and had a fetal monitor strapped to me for 20 minutes (I have a new love for Lauren J for being hooked up to that thing while being in labor). Suffice to say, baby's doing awesome, daddy's calm, and mommy's waiting for a big obvious sign; like an Acme anvil being dropped on my head or something close to that.
Sometime around 1am this morning I started to feel uncomfortable. Really uncomfortable. Like changing-the-position-or-going-to-the-bathroom-doesn't-solve-it uncomfortable. Well, I am currently at home, still in my jammies, timing my frequent cramps. So far it's been inconsistent. For about half an hour I'll get the 30 second contractions ever 10 minutes, then I'll be 20 minutes without anything, then 30 second contractions every 5 minutes for 20 minutes. This might be Braxton-Hicks (aka false labor) contractions. Nothing to call the midwife about. (For those of you not in the know, true labor, more often than not, has a predictable pattern that begins with contractions that last for 30 seconds, ever 10 minutes, for an hour or more. The contractions then begin to increase in length of time and occur closer together as the baby nears.)
All I can think is: when will I start to notice a pattern? I wonder if I can take Tylenol for this pain? And, how can I get my hands on a big bowl of Pasta Carbonara? I might be more concerned with the pasta than anything else at this point. But that's okay.
Don't worry, as soon as I end up going to the hospital the phone-tree will begin. In the mean-time hang tight, cross your fingers for me, and will someone please stop by with a pasta lunch for me?
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