I've written two posts already about our trip and due to our fabulous high speed internet connection (read:sarcastic), I've lost both posts. Here are the highlights. I'll post some pics when I get back.
1. The view. We can see the Queen Mary and the harbor from our room. There is a little balcony out our room but I've been scared to open the door (we're on the 9th floor...the top one) because I have visions of the Frog jumping to his death.
2. The weather. It has been perfect! We go on walks everyday while SD is in his meetings and I don't even get hot. I did have to buy a very attractive visor so the sun didn't kill my face.
3. The food. We've been eating really well. Also...I went to SEE'S CANDIES! It's been almost 20 years since I've lived someplace with access to a See's Candies. Mmmm. Nuts & Chews baby. We also ate at Bubba Gump where I had my favorite, "I'm so stuffed" shrimp. Delicioso. Last night we ate at Gladstone's with a group of professors and students. I had an awesome halibut. The best I've ever had.
4. Seeing our friends from Purdue. The V's had their new baby. It's a boy! Russell Datus. They're calling him Rusty. He's a little mini B. Lots of hair. Cute little round face.
5. We're going to the aquarium today. I hope it's a highlight. Frog is screaming bloody murder right now because I won't let him throw a keyboard around the room. I hope the day gets better. Aaah. Parenting.
I better save this as a draft at least so I won't lose it. We're coming home tomorrow. Wendy--we'll need you to tape Survivor for us again. Is that okay? I'll make you a dairy free treat of your choice!
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
Friday, September 23, 2005
Don't Hate Me Because I'll Be Here For a Week
We're leaving for Long Beach, California tomorrow. We'll get home late the 29th. I haven't been letting myself get too excited. Mainly because I've been sick and I haven't finished the laundry. I've got a busy day ahead of me. I should be able to blog while I'm gone because Dr. Sugar Daddy (I think I've just renamed the hubby) has his awesome new laptop that I'll be able to use. Dr. SD is presenting a paper at some mechanical engineering conference. The rest of us are tagging along for an affordable vacation (since the University is footing the bill for hotel, rental car, and Dr.SD's flight and food). Some of our best friends from our days at Purdue are in Redondo Beach and we're planning on seeing them as well. I can't wait. This will be good. I'm starting to really look forward to this vacation (forget the work I have to do today!).
I'm planning on taking the kids to the Long Beach Aquarium while we are there. Frog has been really getting into animals lately. I hope he likes it. I'm sure we'll get in some beach time as well. But, for me, beaches aren't that great. They are more trouble than they are worth most of the time. Sand, sand, sand, cold salty water, wind, etc... I can't deny the little ones (including Dr.SD) the pure joy of the beach. Frog is already talking about sand castles.
I better get my act together. It's time to finish up that laundry and start packing up the house.
Thursday, September 22, 2005
Thank Heaven for Entertainment Reporting
I just don't know what I would have done with myself had this rumor not been put to rest. If you missed the article, Tyra Banks' breasts are real. Since her show airs here in the middle of the night (I know this because I was up all last night hacking up a lung and watching anything that wasn't an infomercial on our 2-6 channels--depending on the rabbit ears), I didn't get to see the actual episode. Hey, maybe it'll be on tonight! Last night it was the promo of her other show, America's Next Top Model. Nothing like having your own talk show to talk about your other show and your boobs.
Smelly
When we moved into this house at the beginning of the summer, it smelled. The previous tenants were smokers. Yuck. I hate the smell of smoke. The landlady did her best to get rid of it, but I could still smell it. As you might recall, I'm a super-smeller. Even Sugar Daddy could smell it still. He's not as skilled at smelling as I am so you know it had to be bad. To top it all off, a lot of our household items smelled like smoke as well. The movers were smokers and I'm sure being in the truck (and them smoking back there) got the smell on our furniture and clothes. Double yuck. Needless to say, I invested in some sweet-smelling devices. Here's my report.
1. Oust fan. I bought two of these. They are kind of expensive (around $7-8). They come with a battery and you can turn them on and off. They have a 5 minute on/15 minute off fan. You can really tell when the fan is on during the 5 minutes. You can also tell when it is off. The smell fades quickly. If I'm close to the fan while it is on, the smell can kind of be a sickening sweet. It does help, though, if there is a particularly smelly diaper and I need a quick whif of something that smells like it didn't just come out of someone's butt. We've tried the outdoor scent and the citrus. The outdoor scent is a little more "natural" smelling. But, the citrus is better at blocking really foul odors. They don't cover a lot of area, though. These would do really well in a bathroom, area where you might keep a pet, or a particularly stinky closet. B-
2. Airwick plug in air fresheners. I bought two of these as well. They are not so expensive ($3-5). These plug into outlets and you can vary the intensity from 1-5. They start to smell great right from the beginning. I must warn you, if you use the 5 setting at the very beginning it can be quite overwhelming. Once the oil starts to go down, the 5 setting isn't so pungent. These have been my favorite so far. They have some great scents to choose from. I have Wild Rose and the other one is Lavender. They can smell kind of perfumey so if you don't like that sort of thing, I wouldn't choose it. But, I like it. The bad thing: our outlets are old and "loose". The airwick fresheners are kind of heavy. I've had one fall out of the outlet. I just have to be careful where I put them. A-
3. Lysol air sanitizer. What a waste. It stinks. It doesn't work. D
4. Febreeze. You can't go wrong with Febreeze. It smells great. It works. Downsides? It takes a while for the things to dry. I tend to use a lot so a bottle doesn't last me very long. I'm not going through a bottle a week or anything. That would be just crazy! But, I do expect it to last a little longer than it does. A-
5. Time. Now that we've been in the house for 3 months, the smell has faded. Every once in a while I can smell it on some clothes that I haven't worn/cleaned since we've moved. But, that's few and far between. The house mainly smells like us now. That isn't always the best thing, but it sure beats smoke any day. I can only give time a C because it takes too long!
1. Oust fan. I bought two of these. They are kind of expensive (around $7-8). They come with a battery and you can turn them on and off. They have a 5 minute on/15 minute off fan. You can really tell when the fan is on during the 5 minutes. You can also tell when it is off. The smell fades quickly. If I'm close to the fan while it is on, the smell can kind of be a sickening sweet. It does help, though, if there is a particularly smelly diaper and I need a quick whif of something that smells like it didn't just come out of someone's butt. We've tried the outdoor scent and the citrus. The outdoor scent is a little more "natural" smelling. But, the citrus is better at blocking really foul odors. They don't cover a lot of area, though. These would do really well in a bathroom, area where you might keep a pet, or a particularly stinky closet. B-
2. Airwick plug in air fresheners. I bought two of these as well. They are not so expensive ($3-5). These plug into outlets and you can vary the intensity from 1-5. They start to smell great right from the beginning. I must warn you, if you use the 5 setting at the very beginning it can be quite overwhelming. Once the oil starts to go down, the 5 setting isn't so pungent. These have been my favorite so far. They have some great scents to choose from. I have Wild Rose and the other one is Lavender. They can smell kind of perfumey so if you don't like that sort of thing, I wouldn't choose it. But, I like it. The bad thing: our outlets are old and "loose". The airwick fresheners are kind of heavy. I've had one fall out of the outlet. I just have to be careful where I put them. A-
3. Lysol air sanitizer. What a waste. It stinks. It doesn't work. D
4. Febreeze. You can't go wrong with Febreeze. It smells great. It works. Downsides? It takes a while for the things to dry. I tend to use a lot so a bottle doesn't last me very long. I'm not going through a bottle a week or anything. That would be just crazy! But, I do expect it to last a little longer than it does. A-
5. Time. Now that we've been in the house for 3 months, the smell has faded. Every once in a while I can smell it on some clothes that I haven't worn/cleaned since we've moved. But, that's few and far between. The house mainly smells like us now. That isn't always the best thing, but it sure beats smoke any day. I can only give time a C because it takes too long!
Wednesday, September 21, 2005
365.9 Cans of Diet Wild Cherry Pepsi on the Wall
According to this website, which I can only assume is perfectly legit and accurate, it would take 365.9 cans of diet Wild Cherry Pepsi to kill me. That's a one day consumption. I've had two so far. I'm feeling pretty good.
I don't know why I've felt the need to have three blog posts in one day. I may even think of more before the day is over. For instance...I just finished reading Shadow Baby. I'm also contemplating eating more oatmeal.
I don't know why I've felt the need to have three blog posts in one day. I may even think of more before the day is over. For instance...I just finished reading Shadow Baby. I'm also contemplating eating more oatmeal.
God Bless You, Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal
Thank you, Cinnamon Roll oatmeal. You've made my day. You are so yummy and warm. You feel so good to my very sore throat. Your cousin, Apple and Cinnamon, used to be my one and only. Don't tell. I'm expanding my horizons.
The Devil in the White City
I read this book. Once I started it, I couldn't stop. I took it with me to the Y. I sat in the locker room for an hour and kept reading. On the way home, I pulled into a parking lot so I could read some more. I read until Frog started whining. We came home. He watched Teletubbies so I could finish it. I'm glad he was willing to make that sacrifice for me.
I love books about Chicago. After living in Indiana and visiting Chicago many times, I've grown to love that city. I just love cities. Period. I wish I had read this book when I lived closer. I would love to drive to the places it describes (although most have since burned down).
This book is non-fiction but reads like a narrative. It is rich with detail. Knowing that all of this happened for real makes it so much more compelling. There was also a girl with her family in Lafayette, IN (where we lived for 5 years). I can't stop thinking about it. Good stuff. Eric--I bet you would really like this book.
I love books about Chicago. After living in Indiana and visiting Chicago many times, I've grown to love that city. I just love cities. Period. I wish I had read this book when I lived closer. I would love to drive to the places it describes (although most have since burned down).
This book is non-fiction but reads like a narrative. It is rich with detail. Knowing that all of this happened for real makes it so much more compelling. There was also a girl with her family in Lafayette, IN (where we lived for 5 years). I can't stop thinking about it. Good stuff. Eric--I bet you would really like this book.
Monday, September 19, 2005
Secret Pal Strikes!
We just got our Secret Pals a week ago and mine has already sent me some goodies! Unfortunately, I don't have the camera working so I'm just going to have to tell you about it. I got a ball of Lion Brand Trellis yarn in a discontinued colorway (but heavy on my favorite color: burgudy!!!). I believe it is destined to become some headbands (one for me and the other for Big Apple). I can't wait to start knitting it. I also got lots of sweet treats including tootsie pops. Yum! Gotta love those!
Thanks secret pal!
Thanks secret pal!
Sunday, September 18, 2005
Home Alone
I'm home alone this weekend. If alone includes the kids. Sugar Daddy went on a business trip to Washington, D.C. to beg some government agencies for grant money. He'll only be gone 2 days. Just a drop in the water compared to the three weeks I spent without him this summer. I just wanted to share with all of you what happened at church today. Let me preface with something that happened this summer.
While I was in Oklahoma the last time SD was gone, I went to church with the kids by myself. It was a disaster. I think I even wrote about it on this blog. Frog was a maniac and I just didn't have enough hands to keep it together. Melessa helped me out with Big Apple so I could keep Frog contained out in the hallway. It wasn't fun. I said right then and there that I would never go to church with just me and the kids again. Too risky.
Fast forward to today. I teach Sunday School (to the 12-13 yr. olds), I'm subbing for the Relief Society pianist that just had a baby, and I'm the new Relief Society Secretary. I have a lot to do at church now. We got really spoiled in Indiana with easy callings. It just wasn't worth it to miss church. I would have had to find subs galore. I would have to tough it out.
My visiting teaching companion is a sweetheart. She's my age, single, and super-cute (not unlike me! ha ha). Did I mention that she absolutely adores the Frog? I asked her if she would sit with us today. Frog was an absolute dream in church. He stayed in the pew, was relatively quiet (even during two baby blessings!), and didn't have to be taken out once. Big Apple, on the other hand, spit up on me 4 different times. The kid in front of us was watching and said to his mom, "Fifth times the charm!". Oh my. Luckily, I didn't have clothes on that I particularly care about so that was no big deal. Speaking of clothes...what are you going to wear tomorrow, Wendy? I'm thinking about black pants and a grey t-shirt. FYI.
I'm just so happy that they were good. It makes me think that these next couple of days aren't going to be so bad. I may even get to do some knitting. Oooh. Knitting.
While I was in Oklahoma the last time SD was gone, I went to church with the kids by myself. It was a disaster. I think I even wrote about it on this blog. Frog was a maniac and I just didn't have enough hands to keep it together. Melessa helped me out with Big Apple so I could keep Frog contained out in the hallway. It wasn't fun. I said right then and there that I would never go to church with just me and the kids again. Too risky.
Fast forward to today. I teach Sunday School (to the 12-13 yr. olds), I'm subbing for the Relief Society pianist that just had a baby, and I'm the new Relief Society Secretary. I have a lot to do at church now. We got really spoiled in Indiana with easy callings. It just wasn't worth it to miss church. I would have had to find subs galore. I would have to tough it out.
My visiting teaching companion is a sweetheart. She's my age, single, and super-cute (not unlike me! ha ha). Did I mention that she absolutely adores the Frog? I asked her if she would sit with us today. Frog was an absolute dream in church. He stayed in the pew, was relatively quiet (even during two baby blessings!), and didn't have to be taken out once. Big Apple, on the other hand, spit up on me 4 different times. The kid in front of us was watching and said to his mom, "Fifth times the charm!". Oh my. Luckily, I didn't have clothes on that I particularly care about so that was no big deal. Speaking of clothes...what are you going to wear tomorrow, Wendy? I'm thinking about black pants and a grey t-shirt. FYI.
I'm just so happy that they were good. It makes me think that these next couple of days aren't going to be so bad. I may even get to do some knitting. Oooh. Knitting.
Friday, September 16, 2005
Yarn For Sale! Jo Sharp Yarn For Sale!!!
Okay, folks. I'm selling what's left of my fabulous buy of Jo Sharp Silkroad yarn. It's 85% wool, 10% silk, 5% cashmere. It's been my absolute favorite yarn to work with so far! I can't really justify keeping this since I already made an awesome sweater. I have 19 balls ready to go (at what I paid for them plus shipping). All of this can be yours for $80 (including shipping). If I don't have any takers, I'll just put it up on eBay later this month. Speaking of which, you can pay me with paypal or send me a check. Just email me at sra_nelson at yahoo dot com if you're interested.
I love how the colors work together and the yarn feels so good on the skin! I'm ready for winter!
Here are the specs and some close-ups. Length: 85 m (93 yds), 50g ball. Tension: 18 sts & 24 rows measured over 4 inches in st st using US8 needles. Gentle hand wash/Dry flat in shade. Do not tumble dry/Do not dry clean. www.josharp.com.au Made in Italy.
2 3/4 balls of Quartz. Dye lot 320
10 balls of meadow. 7 from dye lot 102 3 from dye lot 320
1 ball Merlot. Dye lot 322
4 balls Ricepaper. Dye lot 320.
1 ball Venetian. Dye lot 320
And here's a picture of what I made using 7 balls Quartz, and 1 ball each of the rest of the colors. It's Sweetness from the www.knitty.com archives.
I love how the colors work together and the yarn feels so good on the skin! I'm ready for winter!
Thursday, September 15, 2005
My Day
I think I'm going to brush my hair today. It's 5:30pm. Dr. Laura says that a wife should be well put together for her husband when he gets home from work. Ha ha ha.
I probably don't need to brush my hair, I just need to ask for Quicken or a brush-up lesson on HTML. Right, Eric?
I probably don't need to brush my hair, I just need to ask for Quicken or a brush-up lesson on HTML. Right, Eric?
Sugar Daddy
I've found a new way to get the Sugar Daddy's attention. All I have to do is ask him about computers. I asked him the other day if we could get Adobe Photoshop and I thought he was going to cry tears of joy. He was so happy I was showing an interest in this sort of thing. Who knew?
Tuesday, September 13, 2005
Just When I Thought I Might Skip Town...
I had a rotten day. The Frog was in a foul mood most of the day. Big Apple is snotty and cranky. This makes me sad/angry/cranky/mean/depressed. Choose one (or more). I had a Relief Society Presidency meeting this morning. The president is the sweetest lady and assured me that having my two kids there would be no problem. About 20 minutes into our 2 HOUR meeting, she suggested we start having them in the evening so I won't have to bring my kids. Yep, that bad!
I'm starting to question if I was made infertile for a reason. Am I capable enough to raise children? What was I thinking? I have no idea what the heck I am doing. Instead of trying to make things better, I'm wondering which one of us it would make more sense to medicate. I'm kidding. But not really. *we just saw Dodgeball...that was one of my favorite lines although ¿Dónde está la biblioteca, Pedro? is the all time fave* So, back to my rant. Let's just leave it at the fact that I feel totally inadequate and I'm about at my wit's end as to what to do.
But, a few minutes ago, a miracle happened. Both kids went to bed. They are both in bed and it's only 8:30pm. This is about 2 hours earlier than "normal". I have a chance to wind down. To get a grip. I'm starting to feel a little better. I'm sure this will all change when they wake up in the middle of the night wondering why it's not daytime yet. But for now, I'll save the call to a dr. for a prescription for another day.
I'm starting to question if I was made infertile for a reason. Am I capable enough to raise children? What was I thinking? I have no idea what the heck I am doing. Instead of trying to make things better, I'm wondering which one of us it would make more sense to medicate. I'm kidding. But not really. *we just saw Dodgeball...that was one of my favorite lines although ¿Dónde está la biblioteca, Pedro? is the all time fave* So, back to my rant. Let's just leave it at the fact that I feel totally inadequate and I'm about at my wit's end as to what to do.
But, a few minutes ago, a miracle happened. Both kids went to bed. They are both in bed and it's only 8:30pm. This is about 2 hours earlier than "normal". I have a chance to wind down. To get a grip. I'm starting to feel a little better. I'm sure this will all change when they wake up in the middle of the night wondering why it's not daytime yet. But for now, I'll save the call to a dr. for a prescription for another day.
Monday, September 12, 2005
PFA, YMCA, BM, FO, WIP, SP6: all very worthy acronymns
PFA: Well, this week I experienced no weight change at all. You will recall, however, that I enjoyed a nice Runza combo meal with a shake. Here's the main thing: I drank water. Lots of it.
YMCA: Because of sickness and potty training, I did not go to the Y at all this week. That could be part of my "no change" this week for Project Fat Arse. I was sick at the beginning of the week. Big Apple got sick in the middle. Frog was sick all weekend. Aargh.
BM: Frog still will not go poop in the potty. Today was no fun at all. We'll call it a regression, okay? He REFUSES to get on the potty when he's pooping. I see when he's ready. I see it coming out. I rush him to the potty. He thrashes. He flails. He gets poop everywhere. It's totally gross. I cleaned up 3 different poop accidents today before I decided that if he's going to poop that much and fight me every time, I'm going to put him in a diaper. He'll still tell me when he needs to go pee, though. I've had to change 4 additional poopy diapers today. SEVEN TIMES! Has he been saving it up? What's going on? It's yucky.
FO: And now for some knitting news. I have a few more finished objects. Here's my proof.
SP6: Is anyone else just going crazy waiting for the announcement of their secret pals? I've been checking my email like a madwoman today hoping to find out who I am going to be sending my goodies to. I hope the email gets here soon!
YMCA: Because of sickness and potty training, I did not go to the Y at all this week. That could be part of my "no change" this week for Project Fat Arse. I was sick at the beginning of the week. Big Apple got sick in the middle. Frog was sick all weekend. Aargh.
BM: Frog still will not go poop in the potty. Today was no fun at all. We'll call it a regression, okay? He REFUSES to get on the potty when he's pooping. I see when he's ready. I see it coming out. I rush him to the potty. He thrashes. He flails. He gets poop everywhere. It's totally gross. I cleaned up 3 different poop accidents today before I decided that if he's going to poop that much and fight me every time, I'm going to put him in a diaper. He'll still tell me when he needs to go pee, though. I've had to change 4 additional poopy diapers today. SEVEN TIMES! Has he been saving it up? What's going on? It's yucky.
FO: And now for some knitting news. I have a few more finished objects. Here's my proof.
These are numbers 17, 18, and 19. Just plain old dishcloths. They were so quick and easy to do. These, along with some soap, are going to be sent to Cloths for Katrina. I'll probably knit up at least 5 more before I send them out. I'm using up the leftover cotton from the argyle cardigan and the flower jacket.
This isn't technically a FO yet. I still have to kitchner stitch under the arms and weave in all the strands. But, here is my version of knitty.com's Sweetness.
I absolutely fell in love with working raglan sleeves and having a seamless sweater. It's going to be hard for me to make a sweater any other way. It fits okay. It's a little big but if I wear a shirt under it, I probably won't notice much. Plus, I planned on this being a big, cozy sweater. I love the way the colors work together, too. I'm so excited to have this done. It took 8 days from start to finish. I attribute that to using size 11 needles and thick yarn. I think gauge is 4 stitches per inch. Working in the round saves so much time, too. I guess you can add a couple of days to that total since I haven't actually finished it yet. It could use a good blocking.
WIP: I have a work in progress to report on. I'm making Mary's son a HP Gryffindor scarf like the ones I made earlier. He's 3 so I'm making a few modifications so it doesn't swallow him up. Here's a pic of the progress so far:
SP6: Is anyone else just going crazy waiting for the announcement of their secret pals? I've been checking my email like a madwoman today hoping to find out who I am going to be sending my goodies to. I hope the email gets here soon!
Saturday, September 10, 2005
SP6 Questionnaire
Secret Pal 6 is about to start and I'm so excited! My last pal kind of fizzled out at the end and never revealed herself to me (during SP4) so I'm hoping this one turns out better. I had an awesome experience GIVING last time. So much fun! I can't wait to do it again. So, here is the questionnaire for this installment.
1. Are you a yarn snob (do you prefer higher quality and/or natural fibers)? Do you avoid Red Heart and Lion Brand? Or is it all the same to you?
Now that I have been knitting with some of the higher quality fibers, I must admit that I love them! For a lot of the things I knit, function is most important so I don't mind using Lion Brand. Red heart? I could do without.
2. Do you spin? Crochet?
I have a drop spindle and some fiber that was given to me. I haven't taken the time to practice yet...but I plan on it. I just met the president of our area's spinner's guild so I think I may start going to their meetings. I crochet but haven't in a while. I haven't found any crochet patterns that have inspired me lately.
3. Do you have any allergies? (smoke, pets, fibers, perfume, etc.)
I hate smoke!
4. How long have you been knitting?
I've been knitting just over a year.
5. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
Sure don't.
6. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.)
I used to work at Bath & Body Works so I don't really need much bath stuff. I kind of stocked up. For candles, I like cinnamon apple and flowery scents. I'm not too big on vanilla.
7. Do you have a sweet tooth?
Not too bad. I'm not a chocoholic or anything. Although, I do crave See's Candies Nuts & Chews every once in a while. I like pizza more than anything, I think. And Bit o Honeys. Yum.
8. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do?
I stamp (mainly greeting cards), bead (a little bit...hard to do with two young kids), do a little needlework.
9. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
I LOVE NEIL DIAMOND! I also like musicals (the happy kind--think Sound of Music, Mary Poppins...not Les Mis or Phantom). My computer can play mp3s. I also have an iPod shuffle and use iTunes.
10. What's your favorite color? Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer? Any colors you just can't stand?
I like jewel tones: burgundy, navy, deep green. I'm also getting keenly interested in more bold colors like turquoise, lime green, purple, and pink.
11. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
I have a husband (professor of mechanical engineering), a son age 2 1/2, a daughter age 6 months, and no pets.
12. What are your life dreams? (really stretching it here, I know)
I want my kids to grow up to be happy. I want to own my own home.
13. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with?
I'm working on a sweater right now using Jo Sharp silkroad (wool/silk/cashmere blend) and it is by far my favorite so far.
14. What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
I'm not a big fan of mohair. It has its uses but I don't like to use it much.
15. What is/are your current knitting obsession/s?
I guess I need to get started making sweaters for my brothers. I'm going to make them Quidditch sweaters for their favorite houses. Sam likes Hufflepuff because he thinks their Quidditch team is the best. Joe likes Ravenclaw because he likes birds and the color blue. I want to have them done by the time the next movie comes out.
16. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
I've liked knitting almost everything!
17. What are you knitting right now?
A sweater, a pair of socks, dishcloths, a bag (thinking of giving this one up), and a child's scarf.
18. What do you think about ponchos?
No thanks.
19. Do you prefer straight or circular needles?
I don't have a preference.
20. Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
It really depends on the project. I've knit with all of those kinds of needles.
21. Are you a sock knitter?
Yep.
22. How did you learn to knit?
I'm self-taught mainly. I did get some help from friends when I got stuck.
23. How old is your oldest UFO?
4 months
24. What is your favorite animated character or a favorite animal/bird?
I don't really have one. Or, at least I don't have one that is enough of a favorite for me to remember right now.
25. What is your favorite holiday?
My birthday (April 11).
26. Is there anything that you collect?
Fertility dolls and yarn.
27. What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
No subscriptions.
28. Any books out there you are dying to get your hands on?
Family Circle Easy Plus Size Knits and The Knitter's Handy Book of Sweater Patterns.
29. Any patterns you have been coveting, but haven't bought for one reason or another??
Just one. It's a kit. And it can be found here. I'm leaning toward the black or blue.
1. Are you a yarn snob (do you prefer higher quality and/or natural fibers)? Do you avoid Red Heart and Lion Brand? Or is it all the same to you?
Now that I have been knitting with some of the higher quality fibers, I must admit that I love them! For a lot of the things I knit, function is most important so I don't mind using Lion Brand. Red heart? I could do without.
2. Do you spin? Crochet?
I have a drop spindle and some fiber that was given to me. I haven't taken the time to practice yet...but I plan on it. I just met the president of our area's spinner's guild so I think I may start going to their meetings. I crochet but haven't in a while. I haven't found any crochet patterns that have inspired me lately.
3. Do you have any allergies? (smoke, pets, fibers, perfume, etc.)
I hate smoke!
4. How long have you been knitting?
I've been knitting just over a year.
5. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
Sure don't.
6. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.)
I used to work at Bath & Body Works so I don't really need much bath stuff. I kind of stocked up. For candles, I like cinnamon apple and flowery scents. I'm not too big on vanilla.
7. Do you have a sweet tooth?
Not too bad. I'm not a chocoholic or anything. Although, I do crave See's Candies Nuts & Chews every once in a while. I like pizza more than anything, I think. And Bit o Honeys. Yum.
8. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do?
I stamp (mainly greeting cards), bead (a little bit...hard to do with two young kids), do a little needlework.
9. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
I LOVE NEIL DIAMOND! I also like musicals (the happy kind--think Sound of Music, Mary Poppins...not Les Mis or Phantom). My computer can play mp3s. I also have an iPod shuffle and use iTunes.
10. What's your favorite color? Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer? Any colors you just can't stand?
I like jewel tones: burgundy, navy, deep green. I'm also getting keenly interested in more bold colors like turquoise, lime green, purple, and pink.
11. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
I have a husband (professor of mechanical engineering), a son age 2 1/2, a daughter age 6 months, and no pets.
12. What are your life dreams? (really stretching it here, I know)
I want my kids to grow up to be happy. I want to own my own home.
13. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with?
I'm working on a sweater right now using Jo Sharp silkroad (wool/silk/cashmere blend) and it is by far my favorite so far.
14. What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
I'm not a big fan of mohair. It has its uses but I don't like to use it much.
15. What is/are your current knitting obsession/s?
I guess I need to get started making sweaters for my brothers. I'm going to make them Quidditch sweaters for their favorite houses. Sam likes Hufflepuff because he thinks their Quidditch team is the best. Joe likes Ravenclaw because he likes birds and the color blue. I want to have them done by the time the next movie comes out.
16. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
I've liked knitting almost everything!
17. What are you knitting right now?
A sweater, a pair of socks, dishcloths, a bag (thinking of giving this one up), and a child's scarf.
18. What do you think about ponchos?
No thanks.
19. Do you prefer straight or circular needles?
I don't have a preference.
20. Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
It really depends on the project. I've knit with all of those kinds of needles.
21. Are you a sock knitter?
Yep.
22. How did you learn to knit?
I'm self-taught mainly. I did get some help from friends when I got stuck.
23. How old is your oldest UFO?
4 months
24. What is your favorite animated character or a favorite animal/bird?
I don't really have one. Or, at least I don't have one that is enough of a favorite for me to remember right now.
25. What is your favorite holiday?
My birthday (April 11).
26. Is there anything that you collect?
Fertility dolls and yarn.
27. What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
No subscriptions.
28. Any books out there you are dying to get your hands on?
Family Circle Easy Plus Size Knits and The Knitter's Handy Book of Sweater Patterns.
29. Any patterns you have been coveting, but haven't bought for one reason or another??
Just one. It's a kit. And it can be found here. I'm leaning toward the black or blue.
Friday, September 09, 2005
FO #16 and a WIP
Here's FO #16...my very first dishcloth. It's a really rotten picture. I apologize. There is an apple in the middle of it. It also doesn't help that I took it on my rumpled unmade bed. I am also having a hard time classifying this as a FO since it is so little and took me no time to do it. But, a finished object is a finished object right? I'm starting some more cloths to send to the Cloths for Katrina group. I figure the monthly dishcloth along is really only for a week or so and the rest of the month I can spend that time on making cloths for Katrina survivors. 
I also have a WIP. Since taking this picture, I have added the sleeves and am into the raglan decreases. It's coming along nicely. Especially since I cast on for this last Friday. You can attribute this knitting to lack of sleep. I've been getting up really early every day (for no good reason). This is knit from that Jo Sharp yarn I got a really good deal on. I'm going to have enough for another sweater. But, I'm going to sell it. I'll probably put it up on this blog first and then if none of you want it, I'll put it on eBay. I'll have enough yarn to sell for someone to make this exact same sweater but instead of the purple being the main color (for ribbing, sleeves, and yoke), it would be the olive color. I'm using the Sweetness pattern from www.knitty.com. You can find it in the archives. They have their new issue out if you haven't checked it out yet. Lots of great things that I can see myself making. 
I better finish blogging for today. I have two kids with runny noses. Here's the good news: the Frog tells me EVERY TIME he needs to go potty now. Even if he has on a pull-up. I'm so glad! I think maybe we can venture out of the house now once they get feeling better! We're still working on the poop. Apparently he had a pretty big accident last night while I was at Enrichment. Big Apple decided to play in it. Not pretty. Glad I wasn't here. Sugar Daddy said I would have thrown up for sure. On that note...happy day everyone!
Wednesday, September 07, 2005
What the Heck is a Runza?
I've been wondering what all the little green Runza buildings are for around town. I guess I wasn't wondering too much because I didn't ask anyone for clarification. Luckily, Lisa at Ohjudy gave me an idea (and even a sample first menu) of "what the heck is a Runza?". I decided to make my first visit just this evening. Of course, I took pictures. Here's my photoblogging essay of my first Runza experience.
Looks good so far, eh? I tried the fries first. Warm, crispy outside with a soft inside. Not too salty. Yummy.
Next, I tried the sandwich. I liked it. I'm not going to say that it's my all time favorite thing in the world. It's not. But, I would definitely go back. I can especially imagine craving these on a really cold day. Yeah, that would be good. Really good. I guess it's a good thing that Nebraska gets cold. The bread was super yummy. Nice and soft. The meat was really good. The cheese? Well, it was American cheese. I'll leave it at that.
Cheers. Here's my vanilla shake next to some empty wrappers. The shake was pretty good but I think they must have the same machines as McDonald's because they were practically the same thing. Can you really go wrong with a vanilla shake, though?
I consider my trip to Runza a pleasant experience and I'm happy to share it all with you! Anything else in Lincoln I should know about?
I pulled up to the Runza Express at around 6:40pm. There was quite a line. I decided not to go in because I didn't want to have to take all of those pictures in the restaurant. Sitting in a parking lot with creepy people walking by was my method of choice. Anyway...shortly after taking this picture I realized that I didn't see that they accept debit cards. I decide to book it across the parking lot to my bank's ATM. I would have taken a picture but I didn't think it was right to take a picture of other people using the ATM. I don't want them to get out and demand my camera or something. Especially since the person in front of me clearly had special needs since it took her 8 minutes (no joke) to use the machine. But I digress. I had my money in hand and headed back to Runza.
Here's a crappy pic of the menu. The sun was right in front of me and I didn't want to get blinded. Let me just say that I was so glad that Lisa told me what to order. I would have had no idea what I was doing. I ordered a number 1; cheese runza, fries, vanilla shake. I forgot to ask for ranch dressing. I'm a ketchup girl anyway (which I also forgot to ask for).
The service was prompt and friendly! What a plus. I tried to make her think I wasn't some huge freak wanting her picture. I think she was convinced. I mean she's smiling, right?
Looks good so far, eh? I tried the fries first. Warm, crispy outside with a soft inside. Not too salty. Yummy.
Next, I tried the sandwich. I liked it. I'm not going to say that it's my all time favorite thing in the world. It's not. But, I would definitely go back. I can especially imagine craving these on a really cold day. Yeah, that would be good. Really good. I guess it's a good thing that Nebraska gets cold. The bread was super yummy. Nice and soft. The meat was really good. The cheese? Well, it was American cheese. I'll leave it at that.
Cheers. Here's my vanilla shake next to some empty wrappers. The shake was pretty good but I think they must have the same machines as McDonald's because they were practically the same thing. Can you really go wrong with a vanilla shake, though?
I consider my trip to Runza a pleasant experience and I'm happy to share it all with you! Anything else in Lincoln I should know about?
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
100 Things About Me
I've been working on this off and on for about a month now. I figured I should finally post it.
1. I was born in California.
2. I tell people I'm from Oklahoma.
3. I moved to Oklahoma when I was almost 14 years old and my family still lives there.
4. I skipped 2nd grade.
5. I was pretty smart back then.
6. I developed very early.
7. I'm glad I skipped a grade or I would have been the only 3rd grader to wear a bra and 4th grader to start her cycle.
8. I lived in Chowchilla, Ca until I was 10 years old.
9. Chowchilla is "famous" for having a bus full of kids kidnapped and buried alive.
10. They all survived and my bus driver was the one kidnapped.
11. I legally changed the spelling of my first name from Cristy to Christy.
12. My dad trains race horses.
13. I can't stand horses.
14. I'm not very good at all at riding horses and it is a family joke.
15. I've broken both of my arms (one falling off my grandpa's back, the other falling off a horse).
16. I love black licorice.
17. For almost 5 years I lived in a log cabin with no TV (Tehachapi, Ca).
18. I read a lot of books and listened to a lot of radio.
19. Consequently, I know almost every pop song from 1985-1989.
20. I play the piano and off and on for 10 years, I taught others how to play.
21. I met my best friend a few weeks after we moved to Oklahoma in 1989.
22. Hi Tiffany!
23. There were only 48 people in my graduating class.
24. Most of them were related to each other.
25. I haven't kept in touch with anyone from high school and I don't really regret it.
26. I was a clumsy cheerleader.
27. We won the state academic team championship.
28. I wasn't the valedictorian (or salutatorian).
29. I graduated just a few weeks after I turned 17.
30. I decided to go to the University of Oklahoma.
31. I started studying Journalism but switched to Communication after I couldn't pass Macroeconomics to save my life.
32. I graduated in 4 years.
33. I met my husband the day he got off the plane to come to college.
34. I wasn't too impressed and he doesn't even remember meeting me.
35. We started dating on September 28, 1994.
36. He didn't tell his parents until Christmas break.
37. My mom told me I could do so much better.
38. Now my mom tells him the same thing.
39. I was the president of Lambda Delta Sigma for 2 years.
40. Those were some of the funnest times of my life.
41. I made some of my best friends at the Institute of Religion on the OU campus.
42. Hi Melessa!
43. I'm a dork.
44. I served a mission for my church starting just 2 months after I graduated from college.
45. I went to Guadalajara, Mexico.
46. I was sick about 45% of the time but it was so worth it!
47. I got engaged 6 weeks after I got home.
48. I got married on Aug 7, 1998 in Dallas, Texas.
49. My father-in-law frowned through the entire ceremony.
50. My husband and I both "waited" until we were married. We don't regret it one bit.
51. We tried to have kids right away.
52. Looking back, I'm glad that didn't work out.
53. I have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.
54. It makes me fat, hairy, cranky, and infertile.
55. We moved to Lafayette, Indiana in 2000 so my husband could go to grad school.
56. I had my first "real job" teaching high school Spanish.
57. Some of the other jobs I've had include: amusement park ride operator, Denny's hostess, and bilingual customer service rep at Hertz.
58. I went through several different treatments to try to get pregnant. I drew the line at IVF.
59. I'm kind of wimpy.
60. Five months (to the day) after we decided to adopt, our first child was born. We were at the hospital just 12 hours after his birth.
61. We were at the hospital when our daughter was born. We waited in the "Father's Waiting Room". The birth grandmother came in and told us, "Es una niña" (translation: It's a girl).
62. I thought it would be easier to write this list than it is.
63. I love making and eating Rice Krispie Treats and I usually "sculpt" them into something.
64. Did I mention I'm a dork?
65. I taught myself to knit about a year ago. I haven't stopped since.
66. I am addicted to Stampin' Up.
67. I like coming up with money making schemes.
68. I rarely put them into practice.
69. I love planning things. I often thought that I would be an event planner.
70. I've been to England, France, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Spain, The Netherlands, Haiti, the Bahamas, the Virgin Islands, and 30 states in the U.S.
71. There are lots of other places I'd like to visit including China, Japan, and Australia.
72. My favorite color is burgundy.
73. My favorite singer is Neil Diamond.
74. I like doing genealogy.
75. I drive a Dodge Grand Caravan and I love it.
76. I want to be famous for something someday.
77. I don't do dishes unless I absolutely have to. It makes me gag.
78. A lot of things make me gag (especially Rice Krispies floating in water...which is why I won't do dishes).
79. I think I'm a "super-smeller". I have an excellent sense of smell.
80. Cigarette smoke makes me really mad and sick to my stomach.
81. I love watching college football.
82. Nebraska fans are the craziest I've ever seen (and I was a student at the University of Oklahoma...I thought they were crazy).
83. My husband is a professor of engineering. He looks like he's maybe 21 yrs. old.
84. I've never missed an episode of Survivor.
85. Ever.
86. I like watching All My Children.
87. My dad and grandpa used to watch it when I was growing up. It came on right as they were done with their morning chores.
88. I don't have any pets.
89. I like it that way.
90. I can't believe I'm almost done.
91. We're probably going to adopt again. Maybe two more. Don't hold me to this.
92. I have weak ankles (which is probably why I was a clumsy cheerleader).
93. I love being LDS (Mormon).
94. I like being in charge.
95. I'm a backseat driver.
96. I get really carsick, too.
97. I can't stand camping.
98. I don't like eating outdoors.
99. My favorite candies are Bit o Honey and Twix bars.
100. My favorite drink is Wild Cherry Diet Pepsi.
1. I was born in California.
2. I tell people I'm from Oklahoma.
3. I moved to Oklahoma when I was almost 14 years old and my family still lives there.
4. I skipped 2nd grade.
5. I was pretty smart back then.
6. I developed very early.
7. I'm glad I skipped a grade or I would have been the only 3rd grader to wear a bra and 4th grader to start her cycle.
8. I lived in Chowchilla, Ca until I was 10 years old.
9. Chowchilla is "famous" for having a bus full of kids kidnapped and buried alive.
10. They all survived and my bus driver was the one kidnapped.
11. I legally changed the spelling of my first name from Cristy to Christy.
12. My dad trains race horses.
13. I can't stand horses.
14. I'm not very good at all at riding horses and it is a family joke.
15. I've broken both of my arms (one falling off my grandpa's back, the other falling off a horse).
16. I love black licorice.
17. For almost 5 years I lived in a log cabin with no TV (Tehachapi, Ca).
18. I read a lot of books and listened to a lot of radio.
19. Consequently, I know almost every pop song from 1985-1989.
20. I play the piano and off and on for 10 years, I taught others how to play.
21. I met my best friend a few weeks after we moved to Oklahoma in 1989.
22. Hi Tiffany!
23. There were only 48 people in my graduating class.
24. Most of them were related to each other.
25. I haven't kept in touch with anyone from high school and I don't really regret it.
26. I was a clumsy cheerleader.
27. We won the state academic team championship.
28. I wasn't the valedictorian (or salutatorian).
29. I graduated just a few weeks after I turned 17.
30. I decided to go to the University of Oklahoma.
31. I started studying Journalism but switched to Communication after I couldn't pass Macroeconomics to save my life.
32. I graduated in 4 years.
33. I met my husband the day he got off the plane to come to college.
34. I wasn't too impressed and he doesn't even remember meeting me.
35. We started dating on September 28, 1994.
36. He didn't tell his parents until Christmas break.
37. My mom told me I could do so much better.
38. Now my mom tells him the same thing.
39. I was the president of Lambda Delta Sigma for 2 years.
40. Those were some of the funnest times of my life.
41. I made some of my best friends at the Institute of Religion on the OU campus.
42. Hi Melessa!
43. I'm a dork.
44. I served a mission for my church starting just 2 months after I graduated from college.
45. I went to Guadalajara, Mexico.
46. I was sick about 45% of the time but it was so worth it!
47. I got engaged 6 weeks after I got home.
48. I got married on Aug 7, 1998 in Dallas, Texas.
49. My father-in-law frowned through the entire ceremony.
50. My husband and I both "waited" until we were married. We don't regret it one bit.
51. We tried to have kids right away.
52. Looking back, I'm glad that didn't work out.
53. I have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.
54. It makes me fat, hairy, cranky, and infertile.
55. We moved to Lafayette, Indiana in 2000 so my husband could go to grad school.
56. I had my first "real job" teaching high school Spanish.
57. Some of the other jobs I've had include: amusement park ride operator, Denny's hostess, and bilingual customer service rep at Hertz.
58. I went through several different treatments to try to get pregnant. I drew the line at IVF.
59. I'm kind of wimpy.
60. Five months (to the day) after we decided to adopt, our first child was born. We were at the hospital just 12 hours after his birth.
61. We were at the hospital when our daughter was born. We waited in the "Father's Waiting Room". The birth grandmother came in and told us, "Es una niña" (translation: It's a girl).
62. I thought it would be easier to write this list than it is.
63. I love making and eating Rice Krispie Treats and I usually "sculpt" them into something.
64. Did I mention I'm a dork?
65. I taught myself to knit about a year ago. I haven't stopped since.
66. I am addicted to Stampin' Up.
67. I like coming up with money making schemes.
68. I rarely put them into practice.
69. I love planning things. I often thought that I would be an event planner.
70. I've been to England, France, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Spain, The Netherlands, Haiti, the Bahamas, the Virgin Islands, and 30 states in the U.S.
71. There are lots of other places I'd like to visit including China, Japan, and Australia.
72. My favorite color is burgundy.
73. My favorite singer is Neil Diamond.
74. I like doing genealogy.
75. I drive a Dodge Grand Caravan and I love it.
76. I want to be famous for something someday.
77. I don't do dishes unless I absolutely have to. It makes me gag.
78. A lot of things make me gag (especially Rice Krispies floating in water...which is why I won't do dishes).
79. I think I'm a "super-smeller". I have an excellent sense of smell.
80. Cigarette smoke makes me really mad and sick to my stomach.
81. I love watching college football.
82. Nebraska fans are the craziest I've ever seen (and I was a student at the University of Oklahoma...I thought they were crazy).
83. My husband is a professor of engineering. He looks like he's maybe 21 yrs. old.
84. I've never missed an episode of Survivor.
85. Ever.
86. I like watching All My Children.
87. My dad and grandpa used to watch it when I was growing up. It came on right as they were done with their morning chores.
88. I don't have any pets.
89. I like it that way.
90. I can't believe I'm almost done.
91. We're probably going to adopt again. Maybe two more. Don't hold me to this.
92. I have weak ankles (which is probably why I was a clumsy cheerleader).
93. I love being LDS (Mormon).
94. I like being in charge.
95. I'm a backseat driver.
96. I get really carsick, too.
97. I can't stand camping.
98. I don't like eating outdoors.
99. My favorite candies are Bit o Honey and Twix bars.
100. My favorite drink is Wild Cherry Diet Pepsi.
Monday, September 05, 2005
PFA Update
So, it's Monday. It's time for another PFA update. I will spare you all the potty training drama for a while (although it's going better than I thought). I stayed the same in weight but went down another % point of body fat. I had an interesting Y experience, though. Last Monday I had an appointment with Brooke for him to show me how to use the weights. This is the same guy that showed me the cardio equipment. He's nice and patient and answers all of my questions. For the weight training, we went through every piece of equipment and he had me try each one (there are about 20). He wrote down all of the adjustments I would need to make (seats up or down, resistance, weight, etc...) so I would have it each time I worked out. He had me do one set of 10-12 reps on each machine to make sure the weight was set properly for my level. I must have been showing off or something because the next time I went to work out, the weights felt WAY too heavy. Instead of doing 3 sets of 12 reps on each machine, I could barely do 2. On some of them I could do three. On some of them I couldn't even finish one. I really overdid it and was sick after I came home. That was not fun. This happened on Friday and I haven't been back again yet. I'm going to have to reconfigure the weights the next time I go.
Today I got to go back to Chipotle for lunch. We got takeout to share. That place really has the best burritos! Anyway, Sugar Daddy was gone most of the morning helping out a kid do his Eagle Scout project. When he came home, I decided that I would go pick up lunch so I could get out of the house for a few minutes. I was wearing some pretty raggedy clothes so I decided to change and brush my hair. I actually cleaned up quite nicely. You know how you feel when you have cute clothes on and have a good hair day? Well, that's how I was feeling. I walked into Chipotle confidently. I placed my order and they made it really quickly. I paid and left to get into the car. Imagine my surprise when I got in the car and noticed there was something funny about the skirt I had put on. Hmmm...what's this? I had it on inside out! Here I was thinking I was "all that" and I'm walking around with my skirt inside out. I should have left on my sweats! Luckily, this burrito I'm eating right now is making me feel not so embarrassed. It was worth it!
Today I got to go back to Chipotle for lunch. We got takeout to share. That place really has the best burritos! Anyway, Sugar Daddy was gone most of the morning helping out a kid do his Eagle Scout project. When he came home, I decided that I would go pick up lunch so I could get out of the house for a few minutes. I was wearing some pretty raggedy clothes so I decided to change and brush my hair. I actually cleaned up quite nicely. You know how you feel when you have cute clothes on and have a good hair day? Well, that's how I was feeling. I walked into Chipotle confidently. I placed my order and they made it really quickly. I paid and left to get into the car. Imagine my surprise when I got in the car and noticed there was something funny about the skirt I had put on. Hmmm...what's this? I had it on inside out! Here I was thinking I was "all that" and I'm walking around with my skirt inside out. I should have left on my sweats! Luckily, this burrito I'm eating right now is making me feel not so embarrassed. It was worth it!
Sunday, September 04, 2005
The Circles of Hell w/ UPDATE
Yep, potty training rates right up there with burning in Hell. It must. A lake of fire and brimstone is looking pretty good right now...as long as I don't get peed on. Let me just say, this is not fun. Not even tolerable. I'm ready to lock him in a plastic room (with a drain) for the rest of his life.
Here's the deal. The Frog will go to the potty anywhere BUT the toilet. I know he can hold it because he does until he is just far enough away from the toilet as to not get it in the bowl. He doesn't mind sitting on the potty (or standing up by it...we've tried both methods). But, he will stand there and dance around and hold it. He'll start to ask for a diaper. He knows he's got to go. He just doesn't want to go where he's supposed to. We have found that if he has to go badly enough and is distracted by m&m's, we can point him in the right direction and most of it will land in the toilet. He did this once last night. The rest of the times are marked by towels strewn throughout the house and wet underwear hanging out to dry. Thank goodness for Febreeze.
It's promising that: 1) he can hold it, 2) he's done it at least once now, and 3) he recognizes that he needs to go (evidenced by asking for a diaper). I really want to give up but am afraid that it will get worse if I do. We already put him in diapers for church (he's hard enough to deal with there without adding potty training onto it). He's getting stripped down right now for the rest of the day. Oh. I can't wait. HELP ME!
Here's something else. A couple of weeks ago, a guy from church asked if the Frog is autistic. I didn't think anything of it. Last night, a different person asked us the same thing. Am I missing something? Am I too close to recognize if my child really is showing symptoms of autism? I don't think he is. I'd believe it more if they asked if he was bipolar. But, that might have more to do with the fact that he's TWO! It might be nice to have a neurological disorder to explain some of his problems. But, I have a sneaky suspicion that it's a combination of behavioral problems due to both genetics and bad, or should I just say "misguided" parenting. Those that know him personally, what do you think? Be honest. Should I get him checked out?
UPDATE: It's been 6 hours or so since I posted this. I can't believe what a turn around has taken place. Frog has gone EVERY SINGLE TIME in the POTTY!!!! Okay, he did have a little leak one of the times but it was ON HIS WAY TO THE POTTY!!!! I can't believe this. I must have been really good. He still hasn't gone poop. I guess I'll deal with that eventually. Let me just say this: potty training is still no fun. But, for me, it's a lot better than yesterday! If I've been through the worst of it, I guess I'll take back my lake of fire and brimstone comment because I'm sure it could have been a lot worse. I hope I'm not jinxing myself by saying this. Anyway, just thought y'all would like to know things are looking up.
Here's the deal. The Frog will go to the potty anywhere BUT the toilet. I know he can hold it because he does until he is just far enough away from the toilet as to not get it in the bowl. He doesn't mind sitting on the potty (or standing up by it...we've tried both methods). But, he will stand there and dance around and hold it. He'll start to ask for a diaper. He knows he's got to go. He just doesn't want to go where he's supposed to. We have found that if he has to go badly enough and is distracted by m&m's, we can point him in the right direction and most of it will land in the toilet. He did this once last night. The rest of the times are marked by towels strewn throughout the house and wet underwear hanging out to dry. Thank goodness for Febreeze.
It's promising that: 1) he can hold it, 2) he's done it at least once now, and 3) he recognizes that he needs to go (evidenced by asking for a diaper). I really want to give up but am afraid that it will get worse if I do. We already put him in diapers for church (he's hard enough to deal with there without adding potty training onto it). He's getting stripped down right now for the rest of the day. Oh. I can't wait. HELP ME!
Here's something else. A couple of weeks ago, a guy from church asked if the Frog is autistic. I didn't think anything of it. Last night, a different person asked us the same thing. Am I missing something? Am I too close to recognize if my child really is showing symptoms of autism? I don't think he is. I'd believe it more if they asked if he was bipolar. But, that might have more to do with the fact that he's TWO! It might be nice to have a neurological disorder to explain some of his problems. But, I have a sneaky suspicion that it's a combination of behavioral problems due to both genetics and bad, or should I just say "misguided" parenting. Those that know him personally, what do you think? Be honest. Should I get him checked out?
UPDATE: It's been 6 hours or so since I posted this. I can't believe what a turn around has taken place. Frog has gone EVERY SINGLE TIME in the POTTY!!!! Okay, he did have a little leak one of the times but it was ON HIS WAY TO THE POTTY!!!! I can't believe this. I must have been really good. He still hasn't gone poop. I guess I'll deal with that eventually. Let me just say this: potty training is still no fun. But, for me, it's a lot better than yesterday! If I've been through the worst of it, I guess I'll take back my lake of fire and brimstone comment because I'm sure it could have been a lot worse. I hope I'm not jinxing myself by saying this. Anyway, just thought y'all would like to know things are looking up.
Saturday, September 03, 2005
Potty Training w/ UPDATE
As soon as the Frog gets up this morning, I will be entering the unknown (at least to me) world of potty training. I imagine that I won't be able to blog much as most of my time today will be looking at my son's nether-region and averting potential disasters. This is going to be fun!
Update: We're taking a break for a few hours to assess the situation and go to the church. We were called in for an interview. I'm probably going to get another calling. Yippee. Anyway, about the potty training...He's fighting it. He started crying, begging for a diaper. He was holding it while he was sitting on the potty and as soon as he would get down, he would go. This is what we're thinking...we're going to use the stepstool and just have him go standing up from the get-go. I don't think this little break is going to hurt our, um, progress.
Update: We're taking a break for a few hours to assess the situation and go to the church. We were called in for an interview. I'm probably going to get another calling. Yippee. Anyway, about the potty training...He's fighting it. He started crying, begging for a diaper. He was holding it while he was sitting on the potty and as soon as he would get down, he would go. This is what we're thinking...we're going to use the stepstool and just have him go standing up from the get-go. I don't think this little break is going to hurt our, um, progress.
Friday, September 02, 2005
Grateful
The Crafty Conservative
I've been at a loss these past couple of days as to what to blog about. Everything seems so trivial. The Katrina coverage is starting to get to me. We don't have any extra money this month to give and they aren't suggesting that we donate actual physical items, yet. We donate somewhat regularly to our church's humanitarian aid fund so I guess I've done some to help out. But, I feel really helpless. I've decided I need to stop watching the coverage (at least as much as I have been). The good news: I can't help but look at my kids and my home and be so grateful for what we have.
I've been at a loss these past couple of days as to what to blog about. Everything seems so trivial. The Katrina coverage is starting to get to me. We don't have any extra money this month to give and they aren't suggesting that we donate actual physical items, yet. We donate somewhat regularly to our church's humanitarian aid fund so I guess I've done some to help out. But, I feel really helpless. I've decided I need to stop watching the coverage (at least as much as I have been). The good news: I can't help but look at my kids and my home and be so grateful for what we have.
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