1. I had a reading done after my mom passed and it was really amazing. I was hoping to hear from her tonight during a group reading. She did come through gently, but my grandmother came through loud and clear. It was wonderful! I never believed in this sort of thing until my grandparents died and I began getting signs. I now watch for them and am convinced that there is a life beyond life on earth. It's very comforting.
2. I went to an aerobics class today and heard the teacher talking to another student. The student asked where she goes for vacation and she said "Keuka." Well, I had to get in on that conversation! It was fun to find someone here that knows and loves where I grew up! The class was a killer. I had to modify the abs portion after having done the pilates class yesterday. I swear my sternum and ribs were hurting along with my muscles!
3. We had a BOGO coupon for Friendly's and went for the salads. They were actually very good. I purposely didn't order dessert because I knew I'd be the clean up team. Sure enough, I got some of everyone's leftovers. I did write it in my log! I'll start afresh tomorrow. Tomorrow is a busy day starting early with soccer. Gotta hit the hay.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Keeping it Real
1. I got back from the cruise and thought I'd weigh myself. I never weigh myself. Well, I was the heaviest I've ever been. I decided to start keeping track of what I'm eating. It's amazing how that simple act has kept me from eating a lot of stuff I shouldn't be eating-and that I'd normally eat. I'm not on a diet, but am trying to be more mindful about what I'm putting in my body. I'm trying to get back on an exercise regime and did pretty well this week with a treadmill walk, walk in New Canaan today before my dentist appointment and a pilates class. Whoa! Pilates looks easy, but it's not! This was a mat class and it's all about stretching and core strength. It's truly an amazing workout and will complement my cardio and weight training well.
2. I mentioned my dentist appointment today. Thankfully all is well. Last appointment the hygienist really had to go to town with her instruments as it had been a year since my last check up. This time it was a painless procedure and I was out in no time. I'm usually fastidious about my teeth and was ashamed to admit it had been that long between appointments. Both my kids have teeth issues. Grace has already had 4 pulpotomies after about 10 cavities. Lola has already had one filling and a spot we're watching. I wish I had been even more careful with their teeth, but have been told that their problems probably came in utero, which I couldn't have helped. But, I do make them floss every night. Grace often tries for a "floss break" and I rarely give in!
3. I haven't felt very motivated to do much this week. The only reason I'm writing tonight is a friend said she'd "read about it on my blog." I have so much to deal with-roofer, landscapers, insurance agent, etc. As another friend and I always say, "Calgon, take me away!" You'd only know what that means if you're of a certain age!
2. I mentioned my dentist appointment today. Thankfully all is well. Last appointment the hygienist really had to go to town with her instruments as it had been a year since my last check up. This time it was a painless procedure and I was out in no time. I'm usually fastidious about my teeth and was ashamed to admit it had been that long between appointments. Both my kids have teeth issues. Grace has already had 4 pulpotomies after about 10 cavities. Lola has already had one filling and a spot we're watching. I wish I had been even more careful with their teeth, but have been told that their problems probably came in utero, which I couldn't have helped. But, I do make them floss every night. Grace often tries for a "floss break" and I rarely give in!
3. I haven't felt very motivated to do much this week. The only reason I'm writing tonight is a friend said she'd "read about it on my blog." I have so much to deal with-roofer, landscapers, insurance agent, etc. As another friend and I always say, "Calgon, take me away!" You'd only know what that means if you're of a certain age!
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
New Do
1. I wasn't sure I was going to make it to the hair dresser today. Lola was up at 4 with poop in her diaper. Then she had a tummy ache this morning and two more poops. Note to self: don't let her eat so many cucumbers! She was better after the potty breaks. Phew! I got her to school and then flew to my appointment. What a gorgeous ride in the rain. Seriously! Spring is gorgeous here in New England with all the varying colors of green and the pops of color from the blooming trees and flowers. As usual, it took hours for my services and I was out by 1 to fly back to pick Lola up. My hair is a bit shorter than I would like, but looks pretty good. I'm set for another 6 weeks-or 8 if I'm pushing it!
2. Today I got on the scale and was horrified to find that I'm the heaviest I've EVER been! I decided to start a food diary to keep myself honest about what I'm eating. It really made a difference in what I ate today. Last night I roasted a chicken for dinner. I made broth from the bones and then used it and the leftover chicken in a chicken jambalaya for dinner. That was really good. I'm hungry, but will go to bed without my usual bowl of ice cream! I got on the treadmill today. I had it serviced after it was acting funny and had a dedicated outlet installed. It's still giving me the same odd error reading and turned itself off. Argh!
3. Every day of our vacation Lola had a moment where she was down. I'd ask her what was wrong and she'd say she's sad that Olivia is moving. Her best friend from school is moving to Manhattan. Tomorrow her mom is dropping her off for a playdate so the girls can play while she packs up her kitchen. It's sad, but interesting to me that kids at such a young age understand and are affected by what's happening around them. I hope she'll get over it and move on. There are some other very sweet kids in her class.
2. Today I got on the scale and was horrified to find that I'm the heaviest I've EVER been! I decided to start a food diary to keep myself honest about what I'm eating. It really made a difference in what I ate today. Last night I roasted a chicken for dinner. I made broth from the bones and then used it and the leftover chicken in a chicken jambalaya for dinner. That was really good. I'm hungry, but will go to bed without my usual bowl of ice cream! I got on the treadmill today. I had it serviced after it was acting funny and had a dedicated outlet installed. It's still giving me the same odd error reading and turned itself off. Argh!
3. Every day of our vacation Lola had a moment where she was down. I'd ask her what was wrong and she'd say she's sad that Olivia is moving. Her best friend from school is moving to Manhattan. Tomorrow her mom is dropping her off for a playdate so the girls can play while she packs up her kitchen. It's sad, but interesting to me that kids at such a young age understand and are affected by what's happening around them. I hope she'll get over it and move on. There are some other very sweet kids in her class.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Forgot My Head
1. I feel like I would've forgotten my head if it weren't attached today! I just tried to sign in to this account and couldn't remember the password. That's not nearly as bad as completely forgetting to take Lola to swim class. Then at 4 I was looking out the window waiting for Grace to get off the bus. Then I remembered she was at swim class and I was supposed to bring her wet suit and pick her up! I wasn't late, but raced out the door anyway to make sure she wasn't too upset that I didn't show up. She was not interested in swimming when I arrived as she looked like she was freezing. Once she saw us she did get back in the pool, but refused to jump off the platform in the deep end, claiming it was too cold. Bad mommy! I attribute this to being off for a week and out of my routine. Truly I know it's due to my computer addiction. I was catching up and just got sidetracked. I will try to keep the computer off for most of the day. I promise. (If you're wondering about the wet suit, we decided to try one to see if it keeps her warmer in the pool. She has almost 0% body fat and can use all the warmth she can get! She says it helps a little. I got one to swim in the lake this summer!)
2. We had a really wonderful vacation. I won't go into all the details, but suffice it to say that a cruise is a great family vacation. The kids had a ball and always wanted to go to Camp Carnival. We were able to eat dinner almost every night by ourselves! Our waiter always kidded us that we were on a date. Yep, felt like date night every night! We're already thinking of next year and the cruise we will take...
3. Tomorrow is hair salon day. I was referred to a woman that is truly wonderful. She has a little hole in the wall salon in the middle of nowhere. She's African-American and always has a new hair style, which is fun to observe and wonder what the next will be. She's fantastic with the kids and very reasonably priced. She gives the best washes and scalp massages. She's extremely thorough and meticulous. This could be good or bad as she takes a very long time. I hope my 10 am appt lets me out by 1 so I can pick up Lola at school! If you want her info, let me know.
2. We had a really wonderful vacation. I won't go into all the details, but suffice it to say that a cruise is a great family vacation. The kids had a ball and always wanted to go to Camp Carnival. We were able to eat dinner almost every night by ourselves! Our waiter always kidded us that we were on a date. Yep, felt like date night every night! We're already thinking of next year and the cruise we will take...
3. Tomorrow is hair salon day. I was referred to a woman that is truly wonderful. She has a little hole in the wall salon in the middle of nowhere. She's African-American and always has a new hair style, which is fun to observe and wonder what the next will be. She's fantastic with the kids and very reasonably priced. She gives the best washes and scalp massages. She's extremely thorough and meticulous. This could be good or bad as she takes a very long time. I hope my 10 am appt lets me out by 1 so I can pick up Lola at school! If you want her info, let me know.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Handymen
1. I started the day, as usual, in my jammies out at the bus stop. Then I see two trucks driving in to our driveway. Oops! I forgot the handymen were coming today! They got the grill put back together and working-probably only for one more season. Then they moved the patio table and chairs from the basement to the patio. The chalk was all over the patio from the kids little chalk party the other day. A painter with a power washer came and was looking at the "shotgun" fungus on our house. It's some kind of fungus that shoots out of mulch. So, beware when you're getting mulch that it's good stuff! When he was done checking out the fungus his helper pressure washed the patio. Looks good and ready for a BBQ! A few other things got done and I got a quote for a lot of landscaping that has gone undone or not done well. We've lost 3 trees since last season! Ugh!!
2. I took the kids to Target tonight to look for sandals for the trip. Lola only likes things with "something on them". She got Tinkerbell shoes and Grace got gold thongs with big flowers on the top. Neither were what I would have chosen! Grace's style has done a 360 lately. She now refuses to wear pink, even though practically everything she owns is pink. And, drum roll, please....she has worn jeans for the past 3 days in a row! This is a kid with some sensory issues and hates anything binding around her belly button. She even wore her sneakers to school today since it's a gym day. That's instead of packing them in her backpack. After Target we got lost in the mall and finally found Johnny Rocket's. I had a veggie burger. A report came out today about how soy products, if not organic, can be toxic. It definitely didn't taste as good as they used to! But, a friend's husband who is a chemist said they aren't as toxic as the news is making them out.
3. We watched a dvr'd American Idol tonight. I liked the Elvis night and seeing Adam Lambert. I missed the results show where he sang, but caught a glimpse online. I still think he's awesome. My favorite contestants this season are Crystal and Lee. My other shows I watch are Modern Family, Two and a Half Men and Project Runway. I watched the last episode of Dancing with the Stars. I love having a dvr so I can record these shows and zip through them on my schedule. I've got all my shows scheduled to record for next week while we're on vacay! Catch you all on the flip side!
2. I took the kids to Target tonight to look for sandals for the trip. Lola only likes things with "something on them". She got Tinkerbell shoes and Grace got gold thongs with big flowers on the top. Neither were what I would have chosen! Grace's style has done a 360 lately. She now refuses to wear pink, even though practically everything she owns is pink. And, drum roll, please....she has worn jeans for the past 3 days in a row! This is a kid with some sensory issues and hates anything binding around her belly button. She even wore her sneakers to school today since it's a gym day. That's instead of packing them in her backpack. After Target we got lost in the mall and finally found Johnny Rocket's. I had a veggie burger. A report came out today about how soy products, if not organic, can be toxic. It definitely didn't taste as good as they used to! But, a friend's husband who is a chemist said they aren't as toxic as the news is making them out.
3. We watched a dvr'd American Idol tonight. I liked the Elvis night and seeing Adam Lambert. I missed the results show where he sang, but caught a glimpse online. I still think he's awesome. My favorite contestants this season are Crystal and Lee. My other shows I watch are Modern Family, Two and a Half Men and Project Runway. I watched the last episode of Dancing with the Stars. I love having a dvr so I can record these shows and zip through them on my schedule. I've got all my shows scheduled to record for next week while we're on vacay! Catch you all on the flip side!
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Give an Inch, Take a Mile
1. I tend to let my kids do what they want when it comes to art and messes. I then feel like I've given an inch and they've taken a mile. Tonight they wanted to draw with chalk on the patio. I let them do that and continued cleaning up from dinner. I looked out to find that they had brought out water, which I did know about, but added it to the chalk and then painted on themselves. They were covered from head to toe! I had to carry each one up to the bath. The chalk stained their skin and is mostly still there! I want to let them have fun and be creative and then I get mad that I let them do it because it always turns into a mess. I'm hoping that chalk comes out of the grout!
2. I had a really good start to my day! Lola was up early and we actually got to school right on time. Then I went to Fairfield to Einstein Bagels. I had a coupon for bagel, shmear and coffee for $2.12! I ate and then stopped in at Old Navy with a coupon burning a hole in my purse. I looked around and didn't see much. I then went for a massage at Massage Envy. If you want to get on a regular massage program, it's a great place to go! Tell them I sent you! I had a bad crick in my neck that felt much better afterward. I tried a trigger point massage, which was really good. Afterward, I went back to Old Navy and really tried to find some stuff to buy. I tried on a bunch of things and only walked out with a tank top and a baby gift. I gave the coupon to a lady walking in. Hopefully she was able to use it.
3. We have a date confirmed for my mom's memorial service. It's June 19. Since school won't even let out til June 23, I've decided to just fly there by myself for the weekend. I've started looking at flights and hotels. I'm actually looking forward to going on a trip by myself, but just wish it were under happier circumstances. It's been 3 months since she died and at least one point out of every day I think about calling her and just can't believe she's gone.
2. I had a really good start to my day! Lola was up early and we actually got to school right on time. Then I went to Fairfield to Einstein Bagels. I had a coupon for bagel, shmear and coffee for $2.12! I ate and then stopped in at Old Navy with a coupon burning a hole in my purse. I looked around and didn't see much. I then went for a massage at Massage Envy. If you want to get on a regular massage program, it's a great place to go! Tell them I sent you! I had a bad crick in my neck that felt much better afterward. I tried a trigger point massage, which was really good. Afterward, I went back to Old Navy and really tried to find some stuff to buy. I tried on a bunch of things and only walked out with a tank top and a baby gift. I gave the coupon to a lady walking in. Hopefully she was able to use it.
3. We have a date confirmed for my mom's memorial service. It's June 19. Since school won't even let out til June 23, I've decided to just fly there by myself for the weekend. I've started looking at flights and hotels. I'm actually looking forward to going on a trip by myself, but just wish it were under happier circumstances. It's been 3 months since she died and at least one point out of every day I think about calling her and just can't believe she's gone.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Sunday in the Park with Daddy
1. Weekends are always spent going here or there as we don't usually like to stay home. This past weekend, though, I had lots to do to prepare for vacation. Sunday morning Rich told me he'd take the girls to the Bronx Zoo. Wow! What a day I had! I worked most of the day, but really enjoyed doing it by myself. They ended up being gone from 9:30-6! He called and had me go out and get Planet Pizza. Ugh! We have that so often that it is not a treat. I finally have started saving the coupons on the box that if you save 10 you get a free pizza. We're well on the way. Rich even told me that maybe he'll take the kids one weekend day a month and go have a daddy and kids day. Sounds good to me!
2. The kids both slept through the night last night! I'm so tired because I keep staying up too late-like now, case in point! I was watching Dancing with the Stars. Last night I watched Undercover Boss. Why am I so obsessed with reality tv?! I'm also trying to finish The Help. It's a fantastic book, by the way. I had to take back The Space Between Us because it's already due at the library. I hadn't even started it yet. I'd like to take it on vacation, but couldn't renew it because it was on hold. I don't like buying books and would like to borrow one if someone has a copy.
3. Mondays are always good days because the cleaning ladies come and make me feel like I'm starting anew every week. I'm always running around "cleaning" in front of them. Then I take Lola to her gym class. I then got a lot of little things done. I've been trying to decide on an electricity provider since CT has been de-regulated. It really seems like a no-brainer to switch from CL&P to save some bucks. I've narrowed it down to two companies and think I'm going with Viridian because it's a greener company, they have a tie in with the Weston Booster Club and the rates are reasonable. I also got some info about an insurance company called, "Pure" in the mail and called the local rep. I want to see if I can lower our home and auto rates. I figure if I'm saving money by taking my trash to the dump, maybe I can find ways to save even more on the really big things we spend money on! We finished up the day with the kids at swim class and came home to dinner, homework and play. Rich was in the city at a dinner meeting tonight. He ate at La Colonial. It's an excellent Vietnamese restaurant with a sister restaurant in Saigon where we ate when we were there. I'm a bit envious!
2. The kids both slept through the night last night! I'm so tired because I keep staying up too late-like now, case in point! I was watching Dancing with the Stars. Last night I watched Undercover Boss. Why am I so obsessed with reality tv?! I'm also trying to finish The Help. It's a fantastic book, by the way. I had to take back The Space Between Us because it's already due at the library. I hadn't even started it yet. I'd like to take it on vacation, but couldn't renew it because it was on hold. I don't like buying books and would like to borrow one if someone has a copy.
3. Mondays are always good days because the cleaning ladies come and make me feel like I'm starting anew every week. I'm always running around "cleaning" in front of them. Then I take Lola to her gym class. I then got a lot of little things done. I've been trying to decide on an electricity provider since CT has been de-regulated. It really seems like a no-brainer to switch from CL&P to save some bucks. I've narrowed it down to two companies and think I'm going with Viridian because it's a greener company, they have a tie in with the Weston Booster Club and the rates are reasonable. I also got some info about an insurance company called, "Pure" in the mail and called the local rep. I want to see if I can lower our home and auto rates. I figure if I'm saving money by taking my trash to the dump, maybe I can find ways to save even more on the really big things we spend money on! We finished up the day with the kids at swim class and came home to dinner, homework and play. Rich was in the city at a dinner meeting tonight. He ate at La Colonial. It's an excellent Vietnamese restaurant with a sister restaurant in Saigon where we ate when we were there. I'm a bit envious!
Sunday, April 11, 2010
"Date Night" for Date Night
1. We started the day with great hopes for the soccer season. It was a real challenge to get everyone up and out the door to get to practice by 9. Lola was excited and up early and ready to go. We got there, parked and walked out onto the field. She immediately jumped in my arms and said she didn't want to play. Now, granted, it was 40 degrees and there was a wind chill and we weren't dressed appropriately. She complained of being tired and cold and wasn't going to play. She met the coaches, saw two kids she sort of knows, but still didn't want anything to do with it. Finally we gave up and went home. So much for my idyllic visions of being a soccer mom! Let's hope that when we're back in a few weeks it's warmer and she feels more comfortable.
2. I had our treadmill serviced yesterday. If you need anything repaired, Rob's Repair Service, is the place to call. Unfortunately, we haven't been taking care of our treadmill and it's been given a fairly short lifespan. Don't forget to have the belt oiled every 6 months. Who knew?! I'll admit we're terrible with maintenance of stuff. We tend to wait til there's a problem. Friday I looked up on my bathroom ceiling to find a water mark around the vent. Ugh! I've been thinking of calling a roofer just to look over the roof to make sure all is well. I called our handyman who said it's probably not a roof problem, but that sometimes condensation forms at vent sites from air conditioners. That could be it as I had just had the a/c tech out doing the annual service and had the a/c on for two nights last week when it got so hot. He'll be over this week to check it out. I'm also having him stain our swingset as we must keep up that $7K investment!!
3. I worked at trying to get some vacation packing done yesterday and Rich took Grace to yoga. I didn't get much done with Lola around, but feel I'm at least on the way. Our sitter came at 6:30 and we headed for the movies. We rarely go to see a movie in the theater, but saw that Date Night was playing and had seen the posters for it last weekend in NYC. It got good reviews. Well, I'll have to say I was LMAO! No, I wasn't ROTF, too, because it's just too sticky at the movies! We thoroughly enjoyed it and were still laughing when we left. If you see it, don't forget to sit and watch the outtakes at the end. We had a large tub of popcorn and a large Doctor Pepper. What a great dinner! For dessert we headed to SONO and tried to find parking. I'd heard of Chocopologie and wanted to see if we could get in. It must have been meant to be, because we were able to find one spot not too far away on the street. We walked in and it looked full, but they have gallery seating in the back that overlooks the kitchen. The menu looks great! It has breakfast and sandwiches and salads and lots of desserts! Rich had a Croque Monsieur and then the nutella and banana crepe. I had the chocolate gelato. One scoop was so rich and creamy and perfect for me! What a great date night! Too bad Lola woke me at 3:30. She said she couldn't sleep. I popped her in the guest room bed and got in with her. We slept well til 7 when Grace was screaming her wake up calls!
2. I had our treadmill serviced yesterday. If you need anything repaired, Rob's Repair Service, is the place to call. Unfortunately, we haven't been taking care of our treadmill and it's been given a fairly short lifespan. Don't forget to have the belt oiled every 6 months. Who knew?! I'll admit we're terrible with maintenance of stuff. We tend to wait til there's a problem. Friday I looked up on my bathroom ceiling to find a water mark around the vent. Ugh! I've been thinking of calling a roofer just to look over the roof to make sure all is well. I called our handyman who said it's probably not a roof problem, but that sometimes condensation forms at vent sites from air conditioners. That could be it as I had just had the a/c tech out doing the annual service and had the a/c on for two nights last week when it got so hot. He'll be over this week to check it out. I'm also having him stain our swingset as we must keep up that $7K investment!!
3. I worked at trying to get some vacation packing done yesterday and Rich took Grace to yoga. I didn't get much done with Lola around, but feel I'm at least on the way. Our sitter came at 6:30 and we headed for the movies. We rarely go to see a movie in the theater, but saw that Date Night was playing and had seen the posters for it last weekend in NYC. It got good reviews. Well, I'll have to say I was LMAO! No, I wasn't ROTF, too, because it's just too sticky at the movies! We thoroughly enjoyed it and were still laughing when we left. If you see it, don't forget to sit and watch the outtakes at the end. We had a large tub of popcorn and a large Doctor Pepper. What a great dinner! For dessert we headed to SONO and tried to find parking. I'd heard of Chocopologie and wanted to see if we could get in. It must have been meant to be, because we were able to find one spot not too far away on the street. We walked in and it looked full, but they have gallery seating in the back that overlooks the kitchen. The menu looks great! It has breakfast and sandwiches and salads and lots of desserts! Rich had a Croque Monsieur and then the nutella and banana crepe. I had the chocolate gelato. One scoop was so rich and creamy and perfect for me! What a great date night! Too bad Lola woke me at 3:30. She said she couldn't sleep. I popped her in the guest room bed and got in with her. We slept well til 7 when Grace was screaming her wake up calls!
Friday, April 9, 2010
Fun Friday
1. Lola was up at 1 am telling me she was cold. I put a warmer top on her and she slept through the night. I heard Grace at 5:45 and went into her bathroom to find her doing a science experiment with two bottles and water. Oy! I'm hoping for a good night! We need to get up early tomorrow to get Lola to her first ever soccer practice. She's very excited! She's been putting on her shinguards and soccer socks everyday and "practicing."
2. Today Lola and I went to our mom's meeting. The meetings have morphed into a two hour babysitting session for the kids while the moms talk and eat breakfast. I had an enjoyable time talking to a friend the entire time and then we took the kids to Frank Pepe's for lunch. Yum! Lola and I then went to Pier One and then Swoozie's. The latter is having a going out of business sale. I found some mermaid Valentine's that I can make into invitations for Lola's mermaid birthday party! And, they were half price! We then went to Trader Joe's for some groceries.
3. Grace had a playdate with her best friend. He happens to be a boy and she really seems obsessed with him. She only wants to play with him at school. The funny part is they are complete opposites-she's the overbearing bossy one and he goes along for the ride. It works! They had a good time. We then went to Southport Brewing Company for dinner because there was a BOGO coupon in that coupon advantage book that comes in the mail. That coupon saved us $18! Then we stopped at Garelick & Herb for dessert to take home. Rich ran in and then out without anything. He didn't want to buy a whole cake. Well, thank goodness for that! Then we stopped at Balducci's and got some cannolis. They are among my favorite desserts! I got the kids down pretty early tonight and Rich and I watched Hancock. I didn't think I'd like it, but actually did. Now it's time to get some sleep so we can get up and kick some butt tomorrow!
2. Today Lola and I went to our mom's meeting. The meetings have morphed into a two hour babysitting session for the kids while the moms talk and eat breakfast. I had an enjoyable time talking to a friend the entire time and then we took the kids to Frank Pepe's for lunch. Yum! Lola and I then went to Pier One and then Swoozie's. The latter is having a going out of business sale. I found some mermaid Valentine's that I can make into invitations for Lola's mermaid birthday party! And, they were half price! We then went to Trader Joe's for some groceries.
3. Grace had a playdate with her best friend. He happens to be a boy and she really seems obsessed with him. She only wants to play with him at school. The funny part is they are complete opposites-she's the overbearing bossy one and he goes along for the ride. It works! They had a good time. We then went to Southport Brewing Company for dinner because there was a BOGO coupon in that coupon advantage book that comes in the mail. That coupon saved us $18! Then we stopped at Garelick & Herb for dessert to take home. Rich ran in and then out without anything. He didn't want to buy a whole cake. Well, thank goodness for that! Then we stopped at Balducci's and got some cannolis. They are among my favorite desserts! I got the kids down pretty early tonight and Rich and I watched Hancock. I didn't think I'd like it, but actually did. Now it's time to get some sleep so we can get up and kick some butt tomorrow!
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Ladies Who Lunch
1. I tell you, there is no rest for the weary! Lola was up at 2 am with a pain in her leg. She had gone to bed complaining of the pain, too. Then I heard Grace around 4. She was up for a few hours, I think. I let her sleep in and took both of them to school late. There went my workout class. I suppose I could have gone to the gym anyway, but had the goal of actually getting a shower today! So, I went home and finished my closet cleaning and did some other things that needed to get done and then took a shower. Ah! Before that, though, I realized that I had forgotten to give Grace her meds before school. I called school and then raced over to give her the medicine. They had to pull her out of an assembly, but all went smoothly. Phew!
2. I actually put on a skirt and a cute top and low-heel sandals and met two girlfriends at DaPietro's in Westport. It was delish! We've passed by the cute, little place many times and always wondered about it. If you get a chance, try it for lunch. They have $12 lunch specials and the other items are reasonable as well. I had a crab cake salad, which was so yummy! I noticed the desserts were all $11, which seemed pricey. If I'd had room I would have gone to Sunny Daes next door for ice cream.
3. Today as I was racing to do laundry and clean out the closet and was tired from being up in the night, I started thinking more about what I will do when Lola is in school 5 mornings next year. Rich has already mandated that I start a filing system and unpack all the boxes that are still here from the move almost two years ago. I realize I will have my work cut out for me. I think what I'll do is try to get our clutter under control and then get more involved in both schools. I'll also put a bigger priority on working out and taking better care of myself. That should last me a little while and then maybe I'll be thinking about what I want to do again.
2. I actually put on a skirt and a cute top and low-heel sandals and met two girlfriends at DaPietro's in Westport. It was delish! We've passed by the cute, little place many times and always wondered about it. If you get a chance, try it for lunch. They have $12 lunch specials and the other items are reasonable as well. I had a crab cake salad, which was so yummy! I noticed the desserts were all $11, which seemed pricey. If I'd had room I would have gone to Sunny Daes next door for ice cream.
3. Today as I was racing to do laundry and clean out the closet and was tired from being up in the night, I started thinking more about what I will do when Lola is in school 5 mornings next year. Rich has already mandated that I start a filing system and unpack all the boxes that are still here from the move almost two years ago. I realize I will have my work cut out for me. I think what I'll do is try to get our clutter under control and then get more involved in both schools. I'll also put a bigger priority on working out and taking better care of myself. That should last me a little while and then maybe I'll be thinking about what I want to do again.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Yawn!
1. Thankfully Lola slept through the night last night! Too bad I heard Grace at 4! She was up getting something to eat and then reading. At least she can entertain herself. It was tough getting her up, though, after she fell back to sleep. It was tough for me to get up. I then had a burst of energy and started cleaning out a closet and putting away all the winter clothes and packing donation boxes up. Too bad all that stuff is still sitting out. Lola could only play and watch a movie for so long and then wanted to play with me. We went outside to play soccer and couldn't believe how hot it was! Did we bypass spring?!
2. My trainer came and I made it through the work out even though I was feeling very low-energy. Lola had fun playing around while I was sweating it. I can't believe the cruise is coming up so quickly. So much for the images of me in a bikini! Ha! Too bad I can't give up my sweets. That would really help things along!
3. It was a very busy day and I had the forethought to make bread in the bread maker and put chicken in the crock pot. We went to storytime and then picked up Grace and brought her home and then ran out to her social skills class. Lola was asleep through most of this. That's probably why she's still awake at 10 pm! While Grace was in her class we made our weekly pilgrimage over to CVS for gum and she rode her scooter around the parking lot. We stopped for printer ink and gas on the way home. I'm trying to figure out how to print, but save money on ink. We spend a fortune on the stuff! We stopped in to get gas and then I realized we were at a car wash and there was no way out without a wash! I decided to just go ahead and get the wash because it was a $2 savings with the gas and the car needed a wash anyway! The dinner was almost ready at home. Too bad the girls had no interest in my chicken, couscous, green beans and bread. I'm beyond frustrated at meal time.
2. My trainer came and I made it through the work out even though I was feeling very low-energy. Lola had fun playing around while I was sweating it. I can't believe the cruise is coming up so quickly. So much for the images of me in a bikini! Ha! Too bad I can't give up my sweets. That would really help things along!
3. It was a very busy day and I had the forethought to make bread in the bread maker and put chicken in the crock pot. We went to storytime and then picked up Grace and brought her home and then ran out to her social skills class. Lola was asleep through most of this. That's probably why she's still awake at 10 pm! While Grace was in her class we made our weekly pilgrimage over to CVS for gum and she rode her scooter around the parking lot. We stopped for printer ink and gas on the way home. I'm trying to figure out how to print, but save money on ink. We spend a fortune on the stuff! We stopped in to get gas and then I realized we were at a car wash and there was no way out without a wash! I decided to just go ahead and get the wash because it was a $2 savings with the gas and the car needed a wash anyway! The dinner was almost ready at home. Too bad the girls had no interest in my chicken, couscous, green beans and bread. I'm beyond frustrated at meal time.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Carpel Tunnel?
1. My right wrist hurts. I know it's from too much keyboard time. I had started turning off my computer by day, but eased back into having it on all day so I can keep in touch with the rest of the world. I love Facebook, I love online shopping and blog reading and writing and email and on and on. How do you limit your online time?
2. Last night I made a recipe from the CSA we belonged to over the winter. It was a summer sauce of Carolina tomatoes and squashes. It was quite tasty over a brown rice pasta. Rich turned his nose up, but then said it was good. The girls wouldn't touch it. Tonight I turned it into a soup using up the rice from Chinese food from Easter Sunday and also added one link of a frozen Italian sausage. I thought it was good, but Rich really didn't like it. He heated up frozen pizza and then had Lucky Charms for dessert. What am I doing wrong?!
3. Lola was up at 3:30 am and called me several times. I put her in the guest room again with the tv on. She called me several more times and then I finally got in bed with her and turned off the tv. She slept til 10, which meant she was very late for school, I missed my massage, which cost me money, and I didn't have my trainer come because I was too tired. I took a nap after I dropped her off. I wasn't able to sleep really well knowing I had tons to do and had to pick her up. But, I did get a rest and was able to play soccer, make pudding and get through the bedtime routine-and watch American Idol-and write my blog. Night all!
2. Last night I made a recipe from the CSA we belonged to over the winter. It was a summer sauce of Carolina tomatoes and squashes. It was quite tasty over a brown rice pasta. Rich turned his nose up, but then said it was good. The girls wouldn't touch it. Tonight I turned it into a soup using up the rice from Chinese food from Easter Sunday and also added one link of a frozen Italian sausage. I thought it was good, but Rich really didn't like it. He heated up frozen pizza and then had Lucky Charms for dessert. What am I doing wrong?!
3. Lola was up at 3:30 am and called me several times. I put her in the guest room again with the tv on. She called me several more times and then I finally got in bed with her and turned off the tv. She slept til 10, which meant she was very late for school, I missed my massage, which cost me money, and I didn't have my trainer come because I was too tired. I took a nap after I dropped her off. I wasn't able to sleep really well knowing I had tons to do and had to pick her up. But, I did get a rest and was able to play soccer, make pudding and get through the bedtime routine-and watch American Idol-and write my blog. Night all!
Monday, April 5, 2010
Sleep, What's That?!
1. We didn't get a good sleep in NYC and then last night Lola called me a bunch of times starting at 3 am. Finally I took her to the guest room and turned on the tv and "slept" there while she watched cartoons. Thank goodness for all night programming for kids! Amazingly, she only took a brief morning nap and then went to her Little Gym class and swim class this afternoon. We had some down time in between, but she stayed awake til about 9 tonight. I'm still up and wondering why!
2. I actually stayed up to clean up my desk. I also wanted to enter my bills in http://www.mygreenquest.com/ so I can start tracking our energy usage. I've been meaning to look into electric suppliers, too, and have started the search at http://www.ctenergyinfo.com/. There are a lot of things to take into consideration. For example, how "green" the energy is, how much they charge, any complaints lodged against them, are they hooked in with another company or non-profit, etc. I'm leaning toward Viridian to help out the Weston High School Boosters.
3. Today was my first dump run! In my attempt to shave costs where I can, I cancelled our trash service and decided to take the trash to the transfer station myself. It was very painless and rather enjoyable! The day was beautiful and Lola helped me put the stickers on the bags and put the recyclables in the bins. I was nervous about the weight of the bags and the procedure, but was helped out by a nice garbage collector that was there dumping the truck. He tried to sway me to switch to his company, but I told him I just cancelled them to try to save some bucks. He said a lot of people are doing that. It turned out that there was noone there monitoring what you do or weighing your trash. It's an honor system and suited me just fine. I feel so virtuous when I'm saving money!
2. I actually stayed up to clean up my desk. I also wanted to enter my bills in http://www.mygreenquest.com/ so I can start tracking our energy usage. I've been meaning to look into electric suppliers, too, and have started the search at http://www.ctenergyinfo.com/. There are a lot of things to take into consideration. For example, how "green" the energy is, how much they charge, any complaints lodged against them, are they hooked in with another company or non-profit, etc. I'm leaning toward Viridian to help out the Weston High School Boosters.
3. Today was my first dump run! In my attempt to shave costs where I can, I cancelled our trash service and decided to take the trash to the transfer station myself. It was very painless and rather enjoyable! The day was beautiful and Lola helped me put the stickers on the bags and put the recyclables in the bins. I was nervous about the weight of the bags and the procedure, but was helped out by a nice garbage collector that was there dumping the truck. He tried to sway me to switch to his company, but I told him I just cancelled them to try to save some bucks. He said a lot of people are doing that. It turned out that there was noone there monitoring what you do or weighing your trash. It's an honor system and suited me just fine. I feel so virtuous when I'm saving money!
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Easter Weekend in the City
1. I'll start by saying the weekend wasn't all we were hoping for, but turned out ok. We started out having a plumber over on Friday to deal with the hot water heater problem. Ironically, he was telling me about trying to adopt from China for the last 3 years. Then I dashed around packing and we got to the train station with not too much time to spare. We got to the city and took a taxi down to the Marriott Downtown/Financial District. We got checked in and then went out for lunch nearby. We then walked down to the Staten Island Ferry and realized we didn't have time to take the ferry over and back and then get back to get up to MoMA. So, we went back and relaxed for a bit and then took the subway up to Times Square and walked over to the museum. We had decided to go there because on the first Friday of the month Target offers free admission, which would save us 40 bucks. Well, we saw a long line and kept walking to see if it was for the museum. We found out it was, indeed, the line and followed it around and around the building. The line almost completely went around the entire building, which covered over 2 blocks!! Rich, of course, was angry and said we'd never use a coupon or try to get a deal again-he'd rather pay full price. So, instead of waiting in the massive line, we took the girls to the American Girl store, which wasn't too far away. They always have a good time browsing. I can't stand how crowded it is and how the items are placed too high for Lola. I have to carry her all around so she can see the dolls. Ugh! We had a reservation at Johnny Utah's for dinner. We got there a little early and had a good table right up front-right near the mechanical bull! I thought it would be fun for the kids to see some bullriding. We got there before 6 and were warned that we'd have to vacate the table by 8 for another reservation. I actually thought it was nice the hostess told that to us up front instead of kicking us out later, as that's happened to us before! We couldn't imagine being there that long that night, though. The menu was very limited, but the service was great. The bull turned out to be broken and the guys were busy working on it for a long time. We waited and waited and finally it was fixed. We waited some more and noone rode him. So, we finally left, disappointed. We took a taxi back to the hotel. The kids did pretty well that night and slept in a big bed together. I had bought glow sticks for the circus and let them have two for nightlights. We all had a decent nights' sleep.
2. The next day we had to get up by an alarm so we could get down for breakfast and get over to the circus pre-show. The breakfast buffet at the hotel restaurant was great and included with our room. We croaked when we got the bill for $87 and quickly made sure that we weren't supposed to be paying this. No, we just needed to sign for it. Phew! We walked over to the subway station to find that the station was closed due to changes. We walked back over to the hotel and just got a taxi to Madison Square Garden. We got there with time to spare and wait in line. When we got in we realized the floor there was a lot smaller than other arenas we'd seen the circus in. It was a lot tighter and more crowded, but Grace still managed to get quite a few autographs in her program-one of her favorite things to do. Lola loved seeing the elephant paint a picture. She loves elephants. We then headed up to our club suite. The tickets we got were from a vendor at Rich's work and were free to their box. That was exciting to be in a box with food, beverage and a clean bathroom! We knew a few of the people there and had a nice time. The problem with the box is that you're so high up that you don't really feel engaged with the entertainment. The kids watched some, but were happier playing around. The food was pretty mediocre at best-hamburgers, chicken fingers, etc. The bathroom toilet got clogged up and I won't even mention what I had to do about it. Ick! After the circus we took a taxi back to the hotel to rest. Later we went down to the ferry and did take the free round-trip to see the Statue of Liberty. It was funny to get off in Staten Island where everyone had to disembark and then see most everyone getting back on for the return trip. It's one of the best free things to do in the city! Don't be alarmed when the boat tips-everyone is sitting on the statue side for a view! We then walked over to Southport Seaport and ate at Red for dinner-Mexican food, yum! We walked back and the kids took baths. But, they didn't get to sleep til very late for some reason. Poor Lola has a cold and had a hard time breathing and was coughing throughout the night. It was a rough night!
3. Today we woke at our leisure and got up and went for round two of buffet breakfast. We checked our bag and headed for Chinatown. Grace wanted to get a parasol. She had bought one in Boston that had broken and she wanted a new one. We went in the first store we saw and she ended up getting two rings and Lola got a Chinese coin and lucky money envelopes. After looking for a while we saw that we'd paid too much for these things-we just needed to walk further in. We went to find the Chinatown Ice Cream Factory and then went to the Buddhist temple. The kids loved the temple and were fascinated by the offerings and the incense. A man there gave them clementines and told us they had lunch in the basement. We weren't hungry yet, but were intrigued to see the monks eating. For some reason after this Grace got very emotional, but wouldn't tell us what was wrong. The day seemed to be shot after this and we headed back to the hotel. Grace finally perked up and we got back to the hotel. We decided to go to Grand Central and get snacks for the train and home. We got a pretzel and Grace dropped one of her new rings and lost it. We searched for a while, but couldn't find it. She was very upset, needless to say. We also got the requisite Zaro's black and whites and got on the train. I was happy to get seats facing the way we were traveling, not like the previous trip. We finally got home and the kids were playing and Lola somehow let her new coin go and it went rolling under the range. We haven't located it, either. It was a tough weekend, but we made it and were happy for the nice weather. Now I'm hoping for a good night sleep!
2. The next day we had to get up by an alarm so we could get down for breakfast and get over to the circus pre-show. The breakfast buffet at the hotel restaurant was great and included with our room. We croaked when we got the bill for $87 and quickly made sure that we weren't supposed to be paying this. No, we just needed to sign for it. Phew! We walked over to the subway station to find that the station was closed due to changes. We walked back over to the hotel and just got a taxi to Madison Square Garden. We got there with time to spare and wait in line. When we got in we realized the floor there was a lot smaller than other arenas we'd seen the circus in. It was a lot tighter and more crowded, but Grace still managed to get quite a few autographs in her program-one of her favorite things to do. Lola loved seeing the elephant paint a picture. She loves elephants. We then headed up to our club suite. The tickets we got were from a vendor at Rich's work and were free to their box. That was exciting to be in a box with food, beverage and a clean bathroom! We knew a few of the people there and had a nice time. The problem with the box is that you're so high up that you don't really feel engaged with the entertainment. The kids watched some, but were happier playing around. The food was pretty mediocre at best-hamburgers, chicken fingers, etc. The bathroom toilet got clogged up and I won't even mention what I had to do about it. Ick! After the circus we took a taxi back to the hotel to rest. Later we went down to the ferry and did take the free round-trip to see the Statue of Liberty. It was funny to get off in Staten Island where everyone had to disembark and then see most everyone getting back on for the return trip. It's one of the best free things to do in the city! Don't be alarmed when the boat tips-everyone is sitting on the statue side for a view! We then walked over to Southport Seaport and ate at Red for dinner-Mexican food, yum! We walked back and the kids took baths. But, they didn't get to sleep til very late for some reason. Poor Lola has a cold and had a hard time breathing and was coughing throughout the night. It was a rough night!
3. Today we woke at our leisure and got up and went for round two of buffet breakfast. We checked our bag and headed for Chinatown. Grace wanted to get a parasol. She had bought one in Boston that had broken and she wanted a new one. We went in the first store we saw and she ended up getting two rings and Lola got a Chinese coin and lucky money envelopes. After looking for a while we saw that we'd paid too much for these things-we just needed to walk further in. We went to find the Chinatown Ice Cream Factory and then went to the Buddhist temple. The kids loved the temple and were fascinated by the offerings and the incense. A man there gave them clementines and told us they had lunch in the basement. We weren't hungry yet, but were intrigued to see the monks eating. For some reason after this Grace got very emotional, but wouldn't tell us what was wrong. The day seemed to be shot after this and we headed back to the hotel. Grace finally perked up and we got back to the hotel. We decided to go to Grand Central and get snacks for the train and home. We got a pretzel and Grace dropped one of her new rings and lost it. We searched for a while, but couldn't find it. She was very upset, needless to say. We also got the requisite Zaro's black and whites and got on the train. I was happy to get seats facing the way we were traveling, not like the previous trip. We finally got home and the kids were playing and Lola somehow let her new coin go and it went rolling under the range. We haven't located it, either. It was a tough weekend, but we made it and were happy for the nice weather. Now I'm hoping for a good night sleep!
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Anticipation
1. Is making me late, is keeping me waiting....Oh, how I love Carly Simon. Anyway, we're heading to NYC for the long weekend and I'm really excited! We have so many fun things planned, but I don't want to be late in leaving as I haven't even packed yet. The plumber is coming to deal with the hot water heater in the early morning, so that will be a much-needed wake up call. Otherwise, I'm sure I'd sleep as long as I was able!
2. Lola played on the playground a full hour after school ended. She has a very good friend that she was playing with and just adores. I'm sad to say that her family is moving to the city. This will be Lola's first time to deal with "losing" a friend. I've been gently explaining the situation to her so it's not too much of a shock when it actually happens.
3. We never see anyone we know when we go out to dinner. Tonight we used a free kid's meal coupon at Friendly's. It's not our favorite place, but knew it would get the kids interested in going out. By the end of the week they're tired and don't want to leave home. I was right! The funny thing was I saw a family I know sitting down when we got there. Then another family we know walked in after we sat down. I asked Grace "isn't that the girl from your gymnastics class?" She immediately ran over and gave her a hug. She then proceeded to disappear. So, Rich went over to find her and found that her father and he know eachother from work. Funny! As usual, our meal wasn't the best and the service was slow, but the kids had a ball. What more can you ask for to start a holiday weekend? Happy Easter!
2. Lola played on the playground a full hour after school ended. She has a very good friend that she was playing with and just adores. I'm sad to say that her family is moving to the city. This will be Lola's first time to deal with "losing" a friend. I've been gently explaining the situation to her so it's not too much of a shock when it actually happens.
3. We never see anyone we know when we go out to dinner. Tonight we used a free kid's meal coupon at Friendly's. It's not our favorite place, but knew it would get the kids interested in going out. By the end of the week they're tired and don't want to leave home. I was right! The funny thing was I saw a family I know sitting down when we got there. Then another family we know walked in after we sat down. I asked Grace "isn't that the girl from your gymnastics class?" She immediately ran over and gave her a hug. She then proceeded to disappear. So, Rich went over to find her and found that her father and he know eachother from work. Funny! As usual, our meal wasn't the best and the service was slow, but the kids had a ball. What more can you ask for to start a holiday weekend? Happy Easter!
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