So my birthday was pretty much amazing. My saintly mother-in-law spent two days and one night at my house, playing guardian to my beautiful children, while Martin whisked me away to London. We spent the night and saw Wicked at the ApolloVictoria theatre in the West End. It was amazing--loved every second!
I got some very nice gifts--a new handbag, my favorite shade of lipstick, an adorable ring that Dylan picked out all by himself, and a pizza stone. Oh, and did mention that I got to go see Wicked in the West End?
So here I am, 32 years old. Where has the time gone? I feel absolutely ancient, but this damp and gray English climate means that I still don't have any wrinkles. That's pretty good news, at least. And my kids keep me young.
Thanks everyone for the birthday wishes. We've all settled back down to normalcy now, and it is strangely nice and comforting. I love going away, but I love coming home even more. I missed the kids terribly while we were away, and was in heaven when we got back and Martin and I were practically smothered in cuddles and kisses.
In routine news, I have been released from my church calling teaching the youth. I'm sad that I won't be teaching them any more, but am looking forward to a new calling soon. Martin is working different hours now--a split shift every day but Saturday, when he's there all day long. It's not any more hours at work, really. Just different. Edith is now picking up the pace with learning to speak and has a vocabulary of approximately 30 words. She's not been as quick as Dylan at learning to talk, but she is a great communicator all the same. Dylan has started drawing pictures for me while he's at school and is becoming a really good helper around the house.
Anyway, I'm exhausted and it's bath then bed over here. Just wanted to do a quick update for the fam.
Nighty night!
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Heartbreaking...
Apparently, there are some kids from church who don't like playing with Dylan.
A friend told me this the other day, and it's been bothering me ever since then. She said that they don't like playing with him because he hits them. Admittedly, he DID go through a rather prolonged hitting phase. He's grown out of it now, but they haven't played together very much since then because of Martin's job and all of them being in school now. So the boys think that Dylan still hits a lot, I guess.
Anyway, when she told me this I had the most irrational response in the world. I immediately jumped to the defense of my child, and though knowing that they don't like to play with him doesn't bother Dylan at all, I got all hurt and offended for him. I had to stop myself from mentioning all the things that are "wrong" with her children, even though I actually think they are really good kids. In fact, that is probably why this bothers me so much.
I pride myself on being rational (most of the time), so you can imagine my surprise when I reacted this way. I guess it's just more proof that having kids makes me crazy.
I just want everyone in the world to think my child is perfect and see how wonderful he is. If I'm honest with myself, I can see his flaws and faults. In fact, I'm perfectly willing to discuss them with Martin. We know he's high maintenance. He likes attention. He's demanding and bossy. But to hear someone else mention his negative qualities and suggest he wasn't an angel really hurt me.
So stupid!
I just need to get over it.
And I will.
A friend told me this the other day, and it's been bothering me ever since then. She said that they don't like playing with him because he hits them. Admittedly, he DID go through a rather prolonged hitting phase. He's grown out of it now, but they haven't played together very much since then because of Martin's job and all of them being in school now. So the boys think that Dylan still hits a lot, I guess.
Anyway, when she told me this I had the most irrational response in the world. I immediately jumped to the defense of my child, and though knowing that they don't like to play with him doesn't bother Dylan at all, I got all hurt and offended for him. I had to stop myself from mentioning all the things that are "wrong" with her children, even though I actually think they are really good kids. In fact, that is probably why this bothers me so much.
I pride myself on being rational (most of the time), so you can imagine my surprise when I reacted this way. I guess it's just more proof that having kids makes me crazy.
I just want everyone in the world to think my child is perfect and see how wonderful he is. If I'm honest with myself, I can see his flaws and faults. In fact, I'm perfectly willing to discuss them with Martin. We know he's high maintenance. He likes attention. He's demanding and bossy. But to hear someone else mention his negative qualities and suggest he wasn't an angel really hurt me.
So stupid!
I just need to get over it.
And I will.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Best girlie day ever!
Yesterday was my friend Noelle's "hen do." She is getting married in just 4 weeks, and I am so excited for her and her fiance, Richard. They are such nice people, and such a great couple. Since Noelle is Mormon (just like me)she doesn't drink and didn't want a boozy night out on the town. So she organized her own hen day and we went to Harrogate to the Turkish baths and then to Betty's for tea.
Can I just say that the baths were frickin' AMAZING?! Totally Google harrogate turkish baths and look at their website. We showered, steamed, went in the plunge pool (which was truly icy) and then into a series of hot rooms. There were 10 of us in our party at the baths, and we all got sweaty and purified our skin together while we shared a good gossip. Then the gossip continued at Betty's where we were joined by 4 more women. Very civilized and posh!
There was only one downside, and it was that I got home so much later than anticipated--about 2 hours later. But Martin was home, and I kept him updated (with Emma's phone, since I left mine home. Thanks, Emma!) and he was pretty cool with it. I missed bed time, which made me kind of sad. But not enough so to ruin my euphoria.
Seriously, mom you need to come over for another visit so we can go to the baths in Harrogate. I think you'd really enjoy them! Or any of my friends or sisters, as well. Really good time, and I'd like to share it with everyone I know.
Can I just say that the baths were frickin' AMAZING?! Totally Google harrogate turkish baths and look at their website. We showered, steamed, went in the plunge pool (which was truly icy) and then into a series of hot rooms. There were 10 of us in our party at the baths, and we all got sweaty and purified our skin together while we shared a good gossip. Then the gossip continued at Betty's where we were joined by 4 more women. Very civilized and posh!
There was only one downside, and it was that I got home so much later than anticipated--about 2 hours later. But Martin was home, and I kept him updated (with Emma's phone, since I left mine home. Thanks, Emma!) and he was pretty cool with it. I missed bed time, which made me kind of sad. But not enough so to ruin my euphoria.
Seriously, mom you need to come over for another visit so we can go to the baths in Harrogate. I think you'd really enjoy them! Or any of my friends or sisters, as well. Really good time, and I'd like to share it with everyone I know.
Friday, January 14, 2011
von Willebrand's...
Lightening quick update in which I will make a long story short:
Neither Martin nor I have von Willebrand's disease. Dylan's condition wasn't passed down by either one of us--it just happened all on it's own. Not common, but notthat unusual.
Either that or Martin isn't really his father.
You decide.
: )
Neither Martin nor I have von Willebrand's disease. Dylan's condition wasn't passed down by either one of us--it just happened all on it's own. Not common, but notthat unusual.
Either that or Martin isn't really his father.
You decide.
: )
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Weird...
I had my induction at the gym last night, and it was enlightening.
First of all, I don't think the fitness instructor really believed me when I said I used to work out all the time, until we got to the machines and she was making sure I knew how to use all of them. Then, she told me that my technique was perfect. Ha--told you so!
I have a very quick program on weights to do, and I flew through it after the induction so that I could get home in time for dinner. I figured out my own weight limits on all the machines, and it was really interesting. I haven't worked out in a gym for about 5 years now, butI still remember what I was lifting before. My cardiovascular fitness is pretty pants. I managed about 5 minutes on the cross-trainer and 3 minutes rowing, and I was shattered. I'll have to work my way up on those machines. My core strength is pretty good, even after two kids and not enough crunches. My lower body is still pretty strong. Seriously, I was pleasantly surprised. But my upper body--woah! Bicep curls were pathetic! I kept having to decrease my weight, and felt like a total weakling. So when I moved to triceps, I started at the same weight. But, strangely enough, my triceps are really quite strong. I guess it must have something to do with the way I pick up and carry the kids.
The strangest thing is how much I enjoyed being at the gym. I used to go 5 times a week when I was in college, and I went quite a bit when I lived in Cedar City and worked out 3 times a week when we lived in Grimsby. It never felt like anything but hard work. But I've missed being nicely sore, and I've missed the body that results from lots of work at the gym. Last night at the gym was a real pleasure though, and I think it's because I was there doing something for myself.
I spend all of my time taking care of my children and my family. I take care of all their physical needs, and once the kids are in bed I am on my own and spend that time taking care of the house. Everybody is cared for, except for me. It's past time that I started taking care of myself as well. And going to the gym to work out is totally self-indulgent. It benefits nobody but me--totally selfish, but in a good way. It gives me 45 minutes to an hour with no kids and nobody to think about but myself. It's a treat, because it's "me time." I could seriously become a gym junkie again!
On a completely unrelated note:
Yesterday, when we were picking Dylan up from school, I was thinking about when Edith first started walking. She was desperate to walk everywhere, because she had been watching Dylan run around for ages. The first time she walked up to Stables to see Martin, she was so excited! Dylan has a wall that he balances on and stairs and a ramp he walks up (and down) every time we go, and Edith was squealing with excitement the first time she got to go up those stairs. She is always so anxious to do the things that Dylan does. I have a feeling that it could pose a problem later in life. She seems to be in a real hurry to grow up. But it's so adorable right now!
First of all, I don't think the fitness instructor really believed me when I said I used to work out all the time, until we got to the machines and she was making sure I knew how to use all of them. Then, she told me that my technique was perfect. Ha--told you so!
I have a very quick program on weights to do, and I flew through it after the induction so that I could get home in time for dinner. I figured out my own weight limits on all the machines, and it was really interesting. I haven't worked out in a gym for about 5 years now, butI still remember what I was lifting before. My cardiovascular fitness is pretty pants. I managed about 5 minutes on the cross-trainer and 3 minutes rowing, and I was shattered. I'll have to work my way up on those machines. My core strength is pretty good, even after two kids and not enough crunches. My lower body is still pretty strong. Seriously, I was pleasantly surprised. But my upper body--woah! Bicep curls were pathetic! I kept having to decrease my weight, and felt like a total weakling. So when I moved to triceps, I started at the same weight. But, strangely enough, my triceps are really quite strong. I guess it must have something to do with the way I pick up and carry the kids.
The strangest thing is how much I enjoyed being at the gym. I used to go 5 times a week when I was in college, and I went quite a bit when I lived in Cedar City and worked out 3 times a week when we lived in Grimsby. It never felt like anything but hard work. But I've missed being nicely sore, and I've missed the body that results from lots of work at the gym. Last night at the gym was a real pleasure though, and I think it's because I was there doing something for myself.
I spend all of my time taking care of my children and my family. I take care of all their physical needs, and once the kids are in bed I am on my own and spend that time taking care of the house. Everybody is cared for, except for me. It's past time that I started taking care of myself as well. And going to the gym to work out is totally self-indulgent. It benefits nobody but me--totally selfish, but in a good way. It gives me 45 minutes to an hour with no kids and nobody to think about but myself. It's a treat, because it's "me time." I could seriously become a gym junkie again!
On a completely unrelated note:
Yesterday, when we were picking Dylan up from school, I was thinking about when Edith first started walking. She was desperate to walk everywhere, because she had been watching Dylan run around for ages. The first time she walked up to Stables to see Martin, she was so excited! Dylan has a wall that he balances on and stairs and a ramp he walks up (and down) every time we go, and Edith was squealing with excitement the first time she got to go up those stairs. She is always so anxious to do the things that Dylan does. I have a feeling that it could pose a problem later in life. She seems to be in a real hurry to grow up. But it's so adorable right now!
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Success...or at leastthe startof it!
In regards to my non-resolution this year, I have drastically changed my diet (but in a nice and manageable way) and have exercised every day for the last week. At least 30 minutes of cardio every night and, for the past few days, a pretty gruelling 20 minutes on my exercise ball. Result? A loss of, giveor take a few ounces, 2 lbs.
That's pretty good for 1 week. Of course, the real challenge is sustainability. Is my will to get healthy strong enough to overcome my desire for a night parked out on the sofa eating crisps and drinking non-diet Dr. Pepper?
I've joined the gym, so hopefully that will help. I'll be exercising in the morning, which is something I've never done before, because that's when Martin is home and can watch the kids. There are a few classes I'm interested in, but I think I'll mostly be doing elliptical machine and free weights for my upper body. Lower body is covered with my home workout of step aerobics and gym ball.
I'm chasing the burn, and have caught it. You only know it's working if you're in pain, right? But it's good pain--muscle soreness that only comes from a good workout. Tightness that is temporary because of overworked muscles, but could become permanent if I work hard enough.
So here's to having better muscle tone and less baby-belly fat.
Oh, and the kids and Martin are doing fine. Martin really enjoyed sitting on the sofa eating chocolate cream cake and stollen, drinking his Dr. Pepper, checking his e-mails, and watching me work out last night. Stables is closed for refurbishment and he's going to have some extra days off because of it. But yesterday he went golfing and tonight he's going out with the people from work for their belated Christmas party. I'm still not going to be seeing him! But he'll be here for the kids' bath and bed time tonight, and we'll have a few nights together after that.
Dylan keeps saying the most adorable things, like the other night when we dessert. He said, "I love bananas and custard. They are really special to me." He started "big boy" Primary at the new year, and is doing really well. He comes home and tells us the stuff that he's learned, and it always makes me smile. I'm so proud of my smart little man!
And Edith, well, it looks like she is finally growing out of some of her clothes. She's not getting any bigger around the middle, of course. Just taller. She's going to be built a lot like her daddy, lucky girl! She's a very girly girl, and loves doing her hair and make-up. We moisturize our faces together every morning and she loves wearing perfume. She has also started taking a real interest in drawing, which is something Dylan never did. She has been coloring on everything, including my walls.
Well, time to wake Martin up. I hope you all have a good day. I'm sure I will. Healthy food, brisk walking (to CV Day Spas for a free blow dry, to take Dylan to school and pick him up again), Martin's company, Edith's 2 hour nap, and lashings of peppermint tea.
That's pretty good for 1 week. Of course, the real challenge is sustainability. Is my will to get healthy strong enough to overcome my desire for a night parked out on the sofa eating crisps and drinking non-diet Dr. Pepper?
I've joined the gym, so hopefully that will help. I'll be exercising in the morning, which is something I've never done before, because that's when Martin is home and can watch the kids. There are a few classes I'm interested in, but I think I'll mostly be doing elliptical machine and free weights for my upper body. Lower body is covered with my home workout of step aerobics and gym ball.
I'm chasing the burn, and have caught it. You only know it's working if you're in pain, right? But it's good pain--muscle soreness that only comes from a good workout. Tightness that is temporary because of overworked muscles, but could become permanent if I work hard enough.
So here's to having better muscle tone and less baby-belly fat.
Oh, and the kids and Martin are doing fine. Martin really enjoyed sitting on the sofa eating chocolate cream cake and stollen, drinking his Dr. Pepper, checking his e-mails, and watching me work out last night. Stables is closed for refurbishment and he's going to have some extra days off because of it. But yesterday he went golfing and tonight he's going out with the people from work for their belated Christmas party. I'm still not going to be seeing him! But he'll be here for the kids' bath and bed time tonight, and we'll have a few nights together after that.
Dylan keeps saying the most adorable things, like the other night when we dessert. He said, "I love bananas and custard. They are really special to me." He started "big boy" Primary at the new year, and is doing really well. He comes home and tells us the stuff that he's learned, and it always makes me smile. I'm so proud of my smart little man!
And Edith, well, it looks like she is finally growing out of some of her clothes. She's not getting any bigger around the middle, of course. Just taller. She's going to be built a lot like her daddy, lucky girl! She's a very girly girl, and loves doing her hair and make-up. We moisturize our faces together every morning and she loves wearing perfume. She has also started taking a real interest in drawing, which is something Dylan never did. She has been coloring on everything, including my walls.
Well, time to wake Martin up. I hope you all have a good day. I'm sure I will. Healthy food, brisk walking (to CV Day Spas for a free blow dry, to take Dylan to school and pick him up again), Martin's company, Edith's 2 hour nap, and lashings of peppermint tea.
Thursday, January 06, 2011
My little pixie...
I took Edith to Frenchy's to get her hair cut today.
She sat up on the kids' booster chair like a little princess.
She watched Sara cut her hair in the mirror, and didn't make a peep.
And here is the finished result. She has very short bangs and the back of her hair has been tidied up. It actually curls a little bit more now, and she looks so beautiful.
I am looking forward to many happy hours spent together at the beauty salon with my baby girl.
And, by golly, isn't she a stunner?
Tuesday, January 04, 2011
That wasn't as bad as I thought it would be...
This evening I used Wii Fit for the first time in, gulp, 73 days!
Let me just say, I did the workout before I did the body test. I even considered working out every night and going on an all-liquids diet for a week before doing the body test. But I took a deep breath, closed my eyes, and weighed myself.
I have gained 3 lbs. over Christmas with no exercising.
I know, weight gain is never a good thing. But still, I thought it would be so much worse than that. And I have totally re-committed to a healthy lifestyle. Swimming yesterday, aerobics tonight, and all home cooked meals with loads of fresh steamed veggies. I'm going to be better.
I wouldn't exactly call this a new year's resolution. Just a decision.
Let me just say, I did the workout before I did the body test. I even considered working out every night and going on an all-liquids diet for a week before doing the body test. But I took a deep breath, closed my eyes, and weighed myself.
I have gained 3 lbs. over Christmas with no exercising.
I know, weight gain is never a good thing. But still, I thought it would be so much worse than that. And I have totally re-committed to a healthy lifestyle. Swimming yesterday, aerobics tonight, and all home cooked meals with loads of fresh steamed veggies. I'm going to be better.
I wouldn't exactly call this a new year's resolution. Just a decision.
Monday, January 03, 2011
Scaredy cat...
I remember being afraid of absolutely everything when I was a little girl. My mom would tell us horror stories about children disappearing and never being seen again--not even their bodies (obviously, a lesson not to go anywhere on our own if we could help it). She told us about people drowning and their bodies finally floating to the surface of the lake/river/ocean, but only AFTER the fish had eaten their eyes out (obviously, this one was accompanied by a reminder to wear a life jacket). You know--things like that. I spent years looking over my shoulder if I was walking alone at night and freaking out if my feet touched anything other than a totally flat surface underwater, convinced that I was going to be kidnapped or drown because I got tangled in some underwater foliage.
It's probably a good thing my mom did that to us. Seriously, I have 4 sisters and one brother, and she could never have kept an eye on all of us at once when we went places as a family. I have to wonder, do my siblings share the same fears? At any rate, we all survived a pretty chaotic childhood.
I'm only mentioning it because my daughter is absolutely fearless!
We took the kids to the Doncaster Dome today (google it--it's cool and I can't be bothered to put in a link) to go swimming. It is an amazing facility. There are water slides and fountains and hot tubs all over the place, with little nooks and crannies to hide in and shelves to sit on. We had so much fun! And Edith was, quite literally, squealing with excitement. She was climbing up on the little islands in the middle of the pool and just launching herself off them into our arms. She went down the slides on her own, and didn't even look to make sure we were waiting to catch her first. It was quite terrifying as a parent.
I'm starting to wonder if I should try to drum some fear into her!
Martin is back at work tomorrow and Dylan is back at school later this week. I wish we could all just hang out together and do fun things every day. This makes me pretty excited for the next school holidays.
The only downside to the day (well, the weekend, really) is that Martin kept having to sort out work stuff. Strangely enough, everybody called in sick on the bank holiday weekend. Suspicious much? So even though he was supposed to have 3 days off, he ended up spending quite a lot of time covering the "sick" employees and stressing about work cover. Honestly, people! Do you NOT realize that he has a life outside of work and that his family might want him around and paying attention to them, not on the phone with employees?
I am very jealous of the time the kids and I have to spend with Martin. And fiercely protective of it.
Rant completed.
Good night!
It's probably a good thing my mom did that to us. Seriously, I have 4 sisters and one brother, and she could never have kept an eye on all of us at once when we went places as a family. I have to wonder, do my siblings share the same fears? At any rate, we all survived a pretty chaotic childhood.
I'm only mentioning it because my daughter is absolutely fearless!
We took the kids to the Doncaster Dome today (google it--it's cool and I can't be bothered to put in a link) to go swimming. It is an amazing facility. There are water slides and fountains and hot tubs all over the place, with little nooks and crannies to hide in and shelves to sit on. We had so much fun! And Edith was, quite literally, squealing with excitement. She was climbing up on the little islands in the middle of the pool and just launching herself off them into our arms. She went down the slides on her own, and didn't even look to make sure we were waiting to catch her first. It was quite terrifying as a parent.
I'm starting to wonder if I should try to drum some fear into her!
Martin is back at work tomorrow and Dylan is back at school later this week. I wish we could all just hang out together and do fun things every day. This makes me pretty excited for the next school holidays.
The only downside to the day (well, the weekend, really) is that Martin kept having to sort out work stuff. Strangely enough, everybody called in sick on the bank holiday weekend. Suspicious much? So even though he was supposed to have 3 days off, he ended up spending quite a lot of time covering the "sick" employees and stressing about work cover. Honestly, people! Do you NOT realize that he has a life outside of work and that his family might want him around and paying attention to them, not on the phone with employees?
I am very jealous of the time the kids and I have to spend with Martin. And fiercely protective of it.
Rant completed.
Good night!
Friday, December 31, 2010
My gorgeous kids...
Dylan has been absolutely amazing this week. Seriously, he has been helping me out around the house, obeying me when I ask him to do things, not throwing tantrums, it's like the past 6 months never happened. I could really get used to this Dylan.
Of course, his good behavior has coincided almost exactly with the onset of Edith's "terrible twos." She's been a little madame, though still good for a toddler her age.
We had a good day today--spent the morning with Martin and then drove to Ikea after lunch. Both kids spent the whole drive there sleeping, and they were really good while we shopped. We stopped mid-way for a snack, and Dylan helped me push the food trolley around, pay for snacks, and get to a table. Perfect child, really.
We had a good night, too. Edith slept on the drive home, but Dylan and I chatted and listened to music together. I made dinner when we got home, and we all ate together. Then Dylan helped me clear the table while I did dishes. Then it was on to our walk to Tesco for a few essentials.
On the way there, Dylan and I talked about New Year's Eve and how most people would be going to parties tonight. But I told him I wasn't going to go to a party, and Dylan showed amazing insight. He said, "Is that because you're staying home to look after me and Edith?"
"Yes," I told him.
"That's because we're very important to you, isn't it?" he replied.
I nearly cried. All it took was this simple little exchange for me to remember why I wanted to have children so badly in the first place. And it reminded me why I chose to be a stay-at-home mom, even though I'm not really suited to the job.
Dylan knows, at the tender age of 3 years old, that he and his sister are my top priority. And I get to experience the wonder of these two little children, and I have the privilege of raising them and receiving their love and devotion in return. Sure, it'll disappear during their teen-age years. But it'll be back. I know, because I now love my parents even more than I did as a child, because now I realize how much a parent sacrifices for a child.
It's so much more than nights stuck in the house while everyone else is out having a good time. It's the way your life comes to a grinding halt while you, for probably the first time in your life, devote every bit of yourself to another human being.
It's hard work, but very rewarding. Especially when those little monkeys let me know that they appreciate me.
That being said, I am looking forward to them being a bit older and more independent so I am not stuck at home on my own 5 nights a week!
Of course, his good behavior has coincided almost exactly with the onset of Edith's "terrible twos." She's been a little madame, though still good for a toddler her age.
We had a good day today--spent the morning with Martin and then drove to Ikea after lunch. Both kids spent the whole drive there sleeping, and they were really good while we shopped. We stopped mid-way for a snack, and Dylan helped me push the food trolley around, pay for snacks, and get to a table. Perfect child, really.
We had a good night, too. Edith slept on the drive home, but Dylan and I chatted and listened to music together. I made dinner when we got home, and we all ate together. Then Dylan helped me clear the table while I did dishes. Then it was on to our walk to Tesco for a few essentials.
On the way there, Dylan and I talked about New Year's Eve and how most people would be going to parties tonight. But I told him I wasn't going to go to a party, and Dylan showed amazing insight. He said, "Is that because you're staying home to look after me and Edith?"
"Yes," I told him.
"That's because we're very important to you, isn't it?" he replied.
I nearly cried. All it took was this simple little exchange for me to remember why I wanted to have children so badly in the first place. And it reminded me why I chose to be a stay-at-home mom, even though I'm not really suited to the job.
Dylan knows, at the tender age of 3 years old, that he and his sister are my top priority. And I get to experience the wonder of these two little children, and I have the privilege of raising them and receiving their love and devotion in return. Sure, it'll disappear during their teen-age years. But it'll be back. I know, because I now love my parents even more than I did as a child, because now I realize how much a parent sacrifices for a child.
It's so much more than nights stuck in the house while everyone else is out having a good time. It's the way your life comes to a grinding halt while you, for probably the first time in your life, devote every bit of yourself to another human being.
It's hard work, but very rewarding. Especially when those little monkeys let me know that they appreciate me.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
the daily grind returns...
Now that Christmas is over, I have no excuse. I am back on the regular housework rotation, and it's going to take some serious work to get the house back up to par. I put some hard work in tonight on the kitchen and bathroom. Oh, and the Christmas stuff is all packed away and the furniture in the front room moved ever so slightly.
It's always so nice to get the house back to normal after the holidays. Although they're technically not over until after New Year's. What a non-holiday in my world!
We're back to the English winter weather that I've come to know and love. It's foggy and wet, just the way it should be. And compared to the last month, it's downright warm. I'm wearing a short sleeved t-shirt with no sweater over it right now. Ahhhhh, above freezing weather is bliss.
Martin and I have been rocking out on Guitar Hero, and I think we're both pretty much hooked. In fact, now that the chores are done I think I'll indulge in a little "Wii time." I earned it by scrubbing the toilet and cleaning out the bin. Ugh.
It's always so nice to get the house back to normal after the holidays. Although they're technically not over until after New Year's. What a non-holiday in my world!
We're back to the English winter weather that I've come to know and love. It's foggy and wet, just the way it should be. And compared to the last month, it's downright warm. I'm wearing a short sleeved t-shirt with no sweater over it right now. Ahhhhh, above freezing weather is bliss.
Martin and I have been rocking out on Guitar Hero, and I think we're both pretty much hooked. In fact, now that the chores are done I think I'll indulge in a little "Wii time." I earned it by scrubbing the toilet and cleaning out the bin. Ugh.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
The Christmas re-cap...
Well, we made it through Christmas unscathed!
Actually,it was pretty successful. The quiet books were finished on Christmas eve, with time to spare. The wrapping was all done in advance. The house looked lovely.
Observe...
Martin's mum spent the night, and it was nice to have the company. She wrapped her presents while I did all the prep for Christmas dinner. Martin got home at about 11:45pm and we all turned in not too long after that.
Edith got us off to a not-so-great start at 4am, when she woke up and refused to go back to sleep in her crib. She ended up sleeping in the bed with me and Martin, cuddled up in his arms. They looked adorable, but it didn't make for very restful sleep.
Dylan woke us all up at about 6:20am, his normal waking time. He followed the trail of pennies (Santa has holes in the pockets of his Santa suit, don't you know) down to his presents, and was SO excited!
The presents were kind of hard. We did the opening of pressies in three lots, stopping for breakfast and again for a little play with some of the new toys. But the kids were just so overstimulated and out of routine that they both spent large portions of the day being whiny little toe-rags. And Edith was tired and very needy. Let's just put it this way; we were happy to see them go to bed.
Christmas dinner was, by and large, a huge success. The turkey was cooked to perfection, the mashed potatoes were fluffy and creamy, the carrots and swede were beautifully cooked and lightly smashed, the sprouts were still slightly crunchy (nothing worse than over-cooked brussells sprouts), the roast potatoes were nothing short of perfection, the stuffing was home-made and delicious, and the parsnips, well, I burned them. But everything else was really good! Even Christine seemed pleased, and that's saying something. Even the Christmas pudding was deemed a triumph.
I guess cooking all those Thanksgiving dinners has been good practice for me.
The best gifts for the kids have been the sticky hands from Aunty Krystle and Uncle Blane and the dolly pushchair from Aunty Cathy. They do like those quiet books, and they were quite effective at church on Sunday. Martin's favorite gift was "Guitar Hero" for the Wii and mine is a toss up between my suede gloves and my new-to-me ipod.
So yeah, it was a good Christmas. Martin was off for 3 whole days, and he's off for 3 days again this weekend. Awesome! It's so wonderful to have him home. One of my favorite things in the whole world is listening to him give the kids their bath while I wash the dinner dishes. The kids seriously eat him up just like icecream. Days off are amazing. Something about having Martin home for baths makes me feel like everything is right with the world.
So here I am now, alone for the first time in 5 nights. It was pretty weird putting the kids to bed and coming downstairs to an empty house. I almost wanted to keep them up with me, because we were having such a good time. Almost...
So that's the update. It was a good Christmas. Because of the current economic situation, the budgets were smaller and the gifts fewer, but more thoughtfully chosen as a result. I liked it that way. It felt more special to receive the gifts that were given, and less greedy and guilty. More about friends and family.
I just wish I had been able to be with MY family. Sure do miss you guys!
Actually,it was pretty successful. The quiet books were finished on Christmas eve, with time to spare. The wrapping was all done in advance. The house looked lovely.
Observe...
Edith got us off to a not-so-great start at 4am, when she woke up and refused to go back to sleep in her crib. She ended up sleeping in the bed with me and Martin, cuddled up in his arms. They looked adorable, but it didn't make for very restful sleep.
Dylan woke us all up at about 6:20am, his normal waking time. He followed the trail of pennies (Santa has holes in the pockets of his Santa suit, don't you know) down to his presents, and was SO excited!
The presents were kind of hard. We did the opening of pressies in three lots, stopping for breakfast and again for a little play with some of the new toys. But the kids were just so overstimulated and out of routine that they both spent large portions of the day being whiny little toe-rags. And Edith was tired and very needy. Let's just put it this way; we were happy to see them go to bed.
Christmas dinner was, by and large, a huge success. The turkey was cooked to perfection, the mashed potatoes were fluffy and creamy, the carrots and swede were beautifully cooked and lightly smashed, the sprouts were still slightly crunchy (nothing worse than over-cooked brussells sprouts), the roast potatoes were nothing short of perfection, the stuffing was home-made and delicious, and the parsnips, well, I burned them. But everything else was really good! Even Christine seemed pleased, and that's saying something. Even the Christmas pudding was deemed a triumph.
I guess cooking all those Thanksgiving dinners has been good practice for me.
The best gifts for the kids have been the sticky hands from Aunty Krystle and Uncle Blane and the dolly pushchair from Aunty Cathy. They do like those quiet books, and they were quite effective at church on Sunday. Martin's favorite gift was "Guitar Hero" for the Wii and mine is a toss up between my suede gloves and my new-to-me ipod.
So yeah, it was a good Christmas. Martin was off for 3 whole days, and he's off for 3 days again this weekend. Awesome! It's so wonderful to have him home. One of my favorite things in the whole world is listening to him give the kids their bath while I wash the dinner dishes. The kids seriously eat him up just like icecream. Days off are amazing. Something about having Martin home for baths makes me feel like everything is right with the world.
So here I am now, alone for the first time in 5 nights. It was pretty weird putting the kids to bed and coming downstairs to an empty house. I almost wanted to keep them up with me, because we were having such a good time. Almost...
So that's the update. It was a good Christmas. Because of the current economic situation, the budgets were smaller and the gifts fewer, but more thoughtfully chosen as a result. I liked it that way. It felt more special to receive the gifts that were given, and less greedy and guilty. More about friends and family.
I just wish I had been able to be with MY family. Sure do miss you guys!
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Busy!
So many thoughts have been running through my mind, about my children, religion, life in general. But my hands have been too busy doing other things to sit and type out all my thoughts. The quiet books are nearly finished, and then I will have time to do other things. I'm really looking forward to that.
Edith now has a mouth full of teeth, and she is such a joy to have around now that the teeth are in and she's feeling well. It seems like ages ago that Dylan was at this developmental stage, and I'd forgotten how much fun it is! Edith just runs around the house getting into things and discovering. Last night I got out the crayons that my mom gave us ages ago, and she picked up a red one. She did a little bit of drawing with it, saw the bright red color, and gave us the most beautiful, amazed look. Oh, and we got an "ooooooooh!" She is learning to speak, but doesn't say hardly any real words. She just runs around babbling, but she thinks she's speaking English. Her face is priceless when she babbles at you, because she looks so serious--she KNOWS that what she just said makes perfect sense. I love it.
Dylan had his school Christmas party yesterday, and came home all happy and glowing. Apparently, he loves parties. He's told us so several times now. He's excited for Christmas, and it's going to be a fun one this year. Unfortunately, he's also 3 years old going on 13. He's seriously like a stroppy teen-ager, and it's driving me (and Martin) crazy. Last night I had to sit on him to hold him down while I cut his toenails. He is very anti-personal grooming. Hates haircuts, brushing his teeth, cutting his nails, cleaning out his ears, etc. And he's going through a tantrum phase at the minute. Charming, but still an adorable boy.
Martin has been putting in some extra hours at work. Of course, with the run-up to Christmas they have been busy--except for the week it snowed. Last week he worked 6 days. But Saturday is Christmas, and that gives him an extra day off this week. I'm sad that he's not working somewhere that closes over the holidays. Last year he had about 10 days off, and that's just not going to happen this year. But I'll take three days off, gladly. He's working on Christmas eve, normal hours, so I will have to play Santa by myself. That might be a bit lonely, but really no more so than a normal Friday night. We'll miss him at Christmas Eve present time.
And me--well, I colored my hair black again. It seemed to suit my mood. I've been inexplicably sad lately. I think it might have a lot to do with the weather. At least, I hope it is. Winter in England has always been tough for me. A few days ago, sunrise was about 8:35am and sunset was 3:41pm. And we haven't been getting a lot of sunlight even when the sun was technically up, you know? I'm hoping it's just a touch of SAD and I can start being happier once the days get longer and the sun is out more. Maybe I'll try a sun bed for a quick pick-me-up. Anyway, the sadness has hit me before, and it will hit again. I can function just fine with it, and it's not life-threatening. I just need to suck it up and get on with things.
In happy news, my bathroom is now plastered and I have a new cupboard in there. It looks great! Now I just need Martin to finish some of his jobs in the kitchen so I can get that plastered and finished off as well. The bathroom/kitchen remodel has taken a LOT longer than I wanted, but at least the bathroom is nearly there. It's made a big difference with the space. Seriously, the bathroom looks amazing. And I had a great time plastering it. The cupboard has really cleaned up some of the clutter!
Well, it's time to get breakfast made for my brood. Ham and cheese omelettes with toast, I think. Then leftover tuna casserole for lunch. Dinner is still a mystery at this point. I simply don't remember what we're having, because I planned the menus last week. I'm sure it'll be tasty though.
I remember when I only cooked one meal a day, if that!
Edith now has a mouth full of teeth, and she is such a joy to have around now that the teeth are in and she's feeling well. It seems like ages ago that Dylan was at this developmental stage, and I'd forgotten how much fun it is! Edith just runs around the house getting into things and discovering. Last night I got out the crayons that my mom gave us ages ago, and she picked up a red one. She did a little bit of drawing with it, saw the bright red color, and gave us the most beautiful, amazed look. Oh, and we got an "ooooooooh!" She is learning to speak, but doesn't say hardly any real words. She just runs around babbling, but she thinks she's speaking English. Her face is priceless when she babbles at you, because she looks so serious--she KNOWS that what she just said makes perfect sense. I love it.
Dylan had his school Christmas party yesterday, and came home all happy and glowing. Apparently, he loves parties. He's told us so several times now. He's excited for Christmas, and it's going to be a fun one this year. Unfortunately, he's also 3 years old going on 13. He's seriously like a stroppy teen-ager, and it's driving me (and Martin) crazy. Last night I had to sit on him to hold him down while I cut his toenails. He is very anti-personal grooming. Hates haircuts, brushing his teeth, cutting his nails, cleaning out his ears, etc. And he's going through a tantrum phase at the minute. Charming, but still an adorable boy.
Martin has been putting in some extra hours at work. Of course, with the run-up to Christmas they have been busy--except for the week it snowed. Last week he worked 6 days. But Saturday is Christmas, and that gives him an extra day off this week. I'm sad that he's not working somewhere that closes over the holidays. Last year he had about 10 days off, and that's just not going to happen this year. But I'll take three days off, gladly. He's working on Christmas eve, normal hours, so I will have to play Santa by myself. That might be a bit lonely, but really no more so than a normal Friday night. We'll miss him at Christmas Eve present time.
And me--well, I colored my hair black again. It seemed to suit my mood. I've been inexplicably sad lately. I think it might have a lot to do with the weather. At least, I hope it is. Winter in England has always been tough for me. A few days ago, sunrise was about 8:35am and sunset was 3:41pm. And we haven't been getting a lot of sunlight even when the sun was technically up, you know? I'm hoping it's just a touch of SAD and I can start being happier once the days get longer and the sun is out more. Maybe I'll try a sun bed for a quick pick-me-up. Anyway, the sadness has hit me before, and it will hit again. I can function just fine with it, and it's not life-threatening. I just need to suck it up and get on with things.
In happy news, my bathroom is now plastered and I have a new cupboard in there. It looks great! Now I just need Martin to finish some of his jobs in the kitchen so I can get that plastered and finished off as well. The bathroom/kitchen remodel has taken a LOT longer than I wanted, but at least the bathroom is nearly there. It's made a big difference with the space. Seriously, the bathroom looks amazing. And I had a great time plastering it. The cupboard has really cleaned up some of the clutter!
Well, it's time to get breakfast made for my brood. Ham and cheese omelettes with toast, I think. Then leftover tuna casserole for lunch. Dinner is still a mystery at this point. I simply don't remember what we're having, because I planned the menus last week. I'm sure it'll be tasty though.
I remember when I only cooked one meal a day, if that!
Monday, December 13, 2010
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Mean people suck...
Of course, everybody is mean some of the time. I'm no exception to the rule. In fact, the reason I married Martin (or one of the reasons, at least) is because he is a much nicer person than I am.
Sometimes people get hurt because of things you say or do, and you don't even realize it. Those times are the worst. I treasure each and every one of my friends, and would never intentionally hurt any of them. So, well in advance of the New Years rush, I just want to take this opportunity to issue a blanket apology.
My friends and family, I love you all very much. I think of you all often. But sometimes I think only of myself, my husband, and my children. Sometimes I say or do hurtful things as a result. I'm sorry about that. A careless word here, a thoughtless action there--those are the things that can wound the most,
Please don't think that this is an open invitation to all of you to tell me what I've done wrong. Obviously, if you need to get something off your chest and it's really important, feel free to do so. But I've taken enough of a beating already tonight, so please be gentle with me.
Sorry.
Sometimes people get hurt because of things you say or do, and you don't even realize it. Those times are the worst. I treasure each and every one of my friends, and would never intentionally hurt any of them. So, well in advance of the New Years rush, I just want to take this opportunity to issue a blanket apology.
My friends and family, I love you all very much. I think of you all often. But sometimes I think only of myself, my husband, and my children. Sometimes I say or do hurtful things as a result. I'm sorry about that. A careless word here, a thoughtless action there--those are the things that can wound the most,
Please don't think that this is an open invitation to all of you to tell me what I've done wrong. Obviously, if you need to get something off your chest and it's really important, feel free to do so. But I've taken enough of a beating already tonight, so please be gentle with me.
Sorry.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Back on track...
After a week of being sick myself, a week of recovery from Dylan's surgery, and a week of a teething, chest infection Edith, we all seem to be healthy and happy again.
It's been a long week. I've pretty much held Edith since noon on Monday (I was doing Christmas shopping on Monday morning), and it started to wear thin about Wednesday afternoon. She was pretty miserable just this morning, but after a really good nap-she hasn't been sleeping very well-she perked up.
We've actually had a really nice afternoon and evening. Edith and I picked Dylan up from school and we all drove to Scunthorpe to do some Christmas shopping for their daddy. Dylan picked out the present, with some suggestions from me. Then we went and got some dinner at Burger King. Edith ate more than she's eaten in the last three days conmbined. Then we drove home and they watched cartoons together while I got their bath ready. The bath was fun, and story time was as well. Now they are tucked up in bed and, for the first time in about 3 weeks, I am content.
Wow, it's amazing how the weight has lifted just from 4 hours with no crying. Even Dylan was delighted, telling his dad during their bedtime phone call that "Edith's stopped crying!"
It's been a long week. I've pretty much held Edith since noon on Monday (I was doing Christmas shopping on Monday morning), and it started to wear thin about Wednesday afternoon. She was pretty miserable just this morning, but after a really good nap-she hasn't been sleeping very well-she perked up.
We've actually had a really nice afternoon and evening. Edith and I picked Dylan up from school and we all drove to Scunthorpe to do some Christmas shopping for their daddy. Dylan picked out the present, with some suggestions from me. Then we went and got some dinner at Burger King. Edith ate more than she's eaten in the last three days conmbined. Then we drove home and they watched cartoons together while I got their bath ready. The bath was fun, and story time was as well. Now they are tucked up in bed and, for the first time in about 3 weeks, I am content.
Wow, it's amazing how the weight has lifted just from 4 hours with no crying. Even Dylan was delighted, telling his dad during their bedtime phone call that "Edith's stopped crying!"
Tuesday, December 07, 2010
Just breathed a big sigh of relief...
It's the end of what should have been a really good day.
Got a shower.
Got a haircut.
Did make-up (properly, not just mascara and chapstick in the car).
Took the kids to the Fun Forest.
Got a Christmas tree.
Decorated it--mostly.
Sounds nice, right?
WRONG!
Edith is sicky, cutting teeth, and whining. She spent the entire time at the Fun Forest dozing off in my arms, and has spent a large portion of the day being breastfed since she is refusing to eat proper food.
Dylan is attention-seeking, annoying and high maintenance. Seriously, pushing all his boundaries and disobeying the most simple of instructions. Also, screaming at me and hitting me. Awesome.
But the tree is up and twinkling. And the kids are in bed. Now, I am staring at an evening of making gifts for my pain in the bum kids who I don't even want to look at, let alone hand stitch for!
I love them, really. But they'd better be good tomorrow, or else.
Just sayin'.
Got a shower.
Got a haircut.
Did make-up (properly, not just mascara and chapstick in the car).
Took the kids to the Fun Forest.
Got a Christmas tree.
Decorated it--mostly.
Sounds nice, right?
WRONG!
Edith is sicky, cutting teeth, and whining. She spent the entire time at the Fun Forest dozing off in my arms, and has spent a large portion of the day being breastfed since she is refusing to eat proper food.
Dylan is attention-seeking, annoying and high maintenance. Seriously, pushing all his boundaries and disobeying the most simple of instructions. Also, screaming at me and hitting me. Awesome.
But the tree is up and twinkling. And the kids are in bed. Now, I am staring at an evening of making gifts for my pain in the bum kids who I don't even want to look at, let alone hand stitch for!
I love them, really. But they'd better be good tomorrow, or else.
Just sayin'.
Friday, December 03, 2010
Cupcakes...
We made them to take to Mickey B. Martin and I had a hospital appointment this morning in Hull--our second blood test for the von Willebrand's diagnosis. Unfortunately, Martin left the interior light on in the car. For two days. The battery was totally flat. It's a long story that involves much running around by Martin and much irritation from me. But, to make a long story short, Mick let us borrow his car to drive to Hull for our appointment. So I took him a plate full of freshly baked, still warm in the middle, cupcakes. I hope he knows how much we appreciate him!
And here's my darling little boy--thrilled to be able to run and bend over again, and still freaking out about getting in the bath tub. He's recovering well from his surgery on Monday, and is very nearly back to normal. What a trooper!
It's stopped snowing, at last, but it is now freezing. Slush on the roads is making things kind of nasty for motorists, but we have nowhere to go so are not really suffering. The house is kind of cold, but it just inspires me to bake more. I just hope we can get a Christmas tree on Monday, because I am so ready to decorate our house for Christmas!
My dad doesn't believe me...
Tuesday night...
Wednesday night...
And finally,
Friday morning!
Getting onto the Humber Bridge...
The view from the top (fog on the river)...
It really is a winter wonderland.
Thursday, December 02, 2010
This is bizarre!
I know that I'm no expert, but I have spent 7 winters in England (including the one when I was first married) and I have NEVER seen weather like this! Seriously, the last week has been much more like a Utah winter than an English one. Only there is no snow removal.
London Gatwick and Edinburgh airports are closed.
There are no trains running.
There are no buses running (which makes Fleetgate a very quiet street, indeed).
The local supermarkets are completely out of bread and milk (though are currently doing fine on all other stock levels).
HGV's can't get into or out of Barton because of the ice on Ferriby Road. It's the main road into and out of Barton, and it's a pretty steep hill. I've been told the only way you can drive up it is if you have 4-wheel drive.
Dylan's school has been closed for the last two days, as have most schools in the country.
Martin closed the Stables last night because his chefs couldn't get in to work.
The Humber Bridge is closed.
Fleetgate hardware has sold all of it's snow shovels and sleds. I'm pretty sure there isn't one to be found throughout the whole country, in fact.
And, best of all, IT'S STILL SNOWING!
The met office are predicting another 10cm for our region today. It's fine for us, because we have plenty of food in the house and Martin walks to work anyway. Dylan wouldn't be in school because of his surgery, so that's no big loss. But it's apparently next to impossible to get out of Barton. I wouldn't know because I pretty much haven't left the house since early Tuesday morning, and I'm starting to go a little bit stir crazy. I've never really missed the snow since we moved over here, and it's nothing but a nuisance in this country.
We're all tucked up snug and sound in our house, watching cartoons, having hot chocolate for breakfast, and waiting for the "Big Freeze" to be finished. Me, I'm totally ready for the "Big Thaw." But hey, maybe I can take this opportunity to repeat my Utah winter mantra...
"If it's snowing, it's not freezing."
Everybody say it with me now;
"If it's snowing, it's not freezing."
London Gatwick and Edinburgh airports are closed.
There are no trains running.
There are no buses running (which makes Fleetgate a very quiet street, indeed).
The local supermarkets are completely out of bread and milk (though are currently doing fine on all other stock levels).
HGV's can't get into or out of Barton because of the ice on Ferriby Road. It's the main road into and out of Barton, and it's a pretty steep hill. I've been told the only way you can drive up it is if you have 4-wheel drive.
Dylan's school has been closed for the last two days, as have most schools in the country.
Martin closed the Stables last night because his chefs couldn't get in to work.
The Humber Bridge is closed.
Fleetgate hardware has sold all of it's snow shovels and sleds. I'm pretty sure there isn't one to be found throughout the whole country, in fact.
And, best of all, IT'S STILL SNOWING!
The met office are predicting another 10cm for our region today. It's fine for us, because we have plenty of food in the house and Martin walks to work anyway. Dylan wouldn't be in school because of his surgery, so that's no big loss. But it's apparently next to impossible to get out of Barton. I wouldn't know because I pretty much haven't left the house since early Tuesday morning, and I'm starting to go a little bit stir crazy. I've never really missed the snow since we moved over here, and it's nothing but a nuisance in this country.
We're all tucked up snug and sound in our house, watching cartoons, having hot chocolate for breakfast, and waiting for the "Big Freeze" to be finished. Me, I'm totally ready for the "Big Thaw." But hey, maybe I can take this opportunity to repeat my Utah winter mantra...
"If it's snowing, it's not freezing."
Everybody say it with me now;
"If it's snowing, it's not freezing."
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