Good Samaritan Run

I went for a run the other day and it was on my old 'route,' on which I haven't run for over two years, since it is farther from home.  I was running along, enjoying my reunion with the road, when I saw a mail truck stuck in the snowbank across the street from where I was running.  I thought, 'What the heck?  I may as well try to help him out.'  So, I jumped through a snowbank and made a pushing gesture to the mailman to signal that I was coming to help.  In the back of my mind I was wondering if I would be of much help to him, but thought that I could at least try.  I leaned into the back end of the truck and rocked it back and forth as the mailman hit the gas...

I pushed that bad-boy out of there!  And I think I really surprised the mailman too!  When I came up along side of him after he pulled away from the bank he had an astonished and relieved look on his face as he said, "You're strong!"  I just laughed and exchanged a few more words before I was back to my run.  I just thought it was fortuitous that I happened to be running that route at that time...Everything happens for a reason!

I felt so good about myself for the rest of the day.  It was great!  Maybe on my next run there will be some more stranded mailmen who need my assistance.

Picture Update (part 2)

A picture of the best daddy in the world in action...

My first attempt at throwing a snowball...daddy helped me make it.

Here's that snowball that I tried to throw at mommy.  It was really cold.

My first sled ride.  I wasn't too into this because I kept falling out.

Do you see the "no-man" (snowman) that daddy and I made together?  (It's behind me...)

I got a new Jump-O-Lene for Christmas and it makes my hair get full of static.

I LOOOOOOOOVE "Big Noise" the vacuum cleaner!

I wasn't too into presents yet this year, I just focused on being really cute; it worked!

In my quest for jumping fun, I also got a new "neigh" (horsie) for Christmas.  Now I can be a real cowgirl!

Santa Claus Came To Town

Santa visited daycare last week and I am finally getting around to posting the pictures.  Joslynn, as you can see, was a bit nervous, but I was happy that she didn't cry when she sat on his lap.  Jack could care less...'Santa?? Who's that?...'

I Wanna Do It...

I am such a big boy now, that I am showing my independence even more by holding my own bottle sometimes, although, when I am really tired, I let mommy or daddy do it for me.

Daycare Dilemma

I have a situation which would appreciate comments.  I didn't know exactly what to get for my daycare providers for Christmas, and since I like sentimental gifts, I came up with the idea to make a calendar of the kids that attend daycare with my own children.  The daycare is at a house that is separate from where they live, so I figured the calendar would just stay there.  I had to secretly enlist the help of the parents.  At first, no one responded to me with pictures,  but now they are trickling in. Anyway, my question to all of you reading is...Is this enough for them for Christmas?  Here are a few more details about the situation: we only have so much money to work with (obviously), and there are three woman (2 full time, mother/daughter, and 1 part time helper) to buy for.  I am also making them a little homemade ornament from the kids, but it is just something small. 

This reminds me of the Friends episode where Monica and Rachel bake cookies for the mailman, the paperboy and the Super of their building.  They too have a limited budget and feel the cookies would show that they really care.  The mailman proceeds to deliver a crushed fragile package with a big footprint on it, the paperboy delivers a shredded newspaper, and the Super can't fix a broken radiator knob for several days.  Joey and Chandler think that they are being cheap with their cookie gift.  Now, I do have all confidence that my children will not be treated with neglect because of my "cheap" gift, however, is it enough to show my appreciation for the care of my children, especially since there are three different women?

Any input from "my readers" would be appreciated.

Four hours later...

Four hours after I started my cleaning/organizing project, I am satisfied with my progress.  I started by organizing the entire kitchen.  I needed to look through all of our food products and read labels so that I could separate anything that has peanuts or eggs (this is what took the most time).  I also set out a few items for the food shelf while I was at it.  I cleaned the entire frig and actually adjusted some shelves so that it is arranged a little better.  I loaded the dishwasher and ran it.  I filled my soap dispensers.  Then, I started a load of laundry and folded two others.  Now, I'm just sitting with my feet up for a quick post before I go to bed.

*Thanks to all my wonderful friends for your comments of support and understanding.  Ms. SuperTelega, I think I'm ready for the story--knowledge is power.

**This blog clock is still off by several hours.  Anyone know how to fix it?

Peanut Allergy

So I learned many new things today, one of them being that my daughter, Joslynn, has a peanut allergy.  This was scary news to hear, so my mind is still going about 100 mph.  Now, all of these questions are coming to mind; that always happens after you leave the doctor's office.  Now I need to train daycare and family on how to use an Epi-pen.  It's all a little unnerving. 

More work to be gone

Being in the teaching profession, I still have to prepare someone else to do my job when I am not there.  Sadly, I can't just call in sick or take a day for an appointment without having to worry about what my sub will do with the kids, or how they will behave.  Honestly, as much as I like a break from work, it is so much more work to be gone than to actually be there.

'I'm Going To Sit On My Brother'

Joslynn has this thing now with thinking that it is really funny when she sits on her brother, or pretends like she is going to.  She climbed on top of him while he was in his little lounging chair, so I moved her to a position that I thought he was somewhat comfortable with so I could get a picture, (since I have so few of them actually together).  He, of course, thinks that she is hilarious.  Later, when he was laying on the floor.  Joslynn proceeded to squat over his head like she was backing up to sit down.  I caught her before she actually sat, (thank goodness) and got her to lay down by him and I got some pretty cute pictures.

Sick Kids

Joslynn had her 18 month check-up today.  She was very brave at the doctor's office.  She is usually like a woodtick and clings to me like crazy, so in anticipation of that, my mom came and helped me with the munchkins after she got off work because that is an extremely busy time for them.  They didn't call us in for about 40 minutes after our scheduled appointment.  By that time, Jackson had needed to eat and Joslynn had her snack (on the go) as well.    I was very thankful for the extra helping hands.  Mom stayed in the waiting room with Jack and I think it put Joslynn at ease a bit more too by having my undivided attention in the doctor's office.  Of course, after he left the room, she said, "Doctor."  

To my surprise, she has a double ear infection!  So we have a new challenge ahead of us for the next 10 days: medicine.  If it were Tylenol, she would drink the whole bottle, but of course, the essential medicine is the one that she spits out.  It smells really good too!  So, I can't quite figure her out.

Jackson is having some #2 issues.  LeAnn if you are reading this, I'm sorry.  For the past 2 weeks the little guy is having the toughest time with doing his business and it is really affecting him.  He's not the same baby lately.  Now, tonight, he threw up all over himself in his crib and it was in his eyes and everything.  Poor little lamb... I wish everyone could just be well here at the Stewart house.

Emotional Eater

Since I started on my weight-loss venture about 3 months ago, I have lost 23 pounds.  The only bad thing about that is, I don't know how long I can keep it off when I am such an emotional eater.  If I am sad or stressed, I eat.  If I am happy (celebrating), I eat.  If I am anxious about something, I snack...does anyone else see a bad pattern here?

Feelin' Like Pooh

I missed my run this morning.  Jack was up before 5:00 and was hungry.  By the time he ate and fell back asleep, I lost my motivation to get dressed for running and decided to snuggle him instead.  I told myself that I would run later.  Well, I should know better.  I knew that I had a dentist appointment this afternoon and then had to go to the store for food.  I also knew that Josh would be home late because he had conferences.  It wasn't news that I had the kids alone and it was bath night for both of them (of which, Joslynn pooped in).  So, by the time I fed Jack once again and strategically left him to nap while I put Joslynn to bed, it was already 8:20 and there were still dishes to be done, toys to be picked up and homework to do.  I missed my run this evening too, but I'm sure you guessed that by now.  I hate missing a workout; it makes me feel like pooh.  So, I'm blogging in its place.

Anticipation

I was so excited about my 100th blog that I wrote it this past weekend.  I am so envious of everyone else's "100's" and I was spurred especially by Kelli's recent accomplishment of her 100th blog.  I guess I was just in a writing mood!  Sadly, it will be a while until you can all read it since I am still just approaching 60 right now.  I need to be better about blogging on a more regular (daily) basis.  I just need more time!

Money is the Devil!

I hate money.  Although, if the gods of fate are listening, I'd still like to win the lottery.  When it comes to having to worry about money though, it truly is the devil.

Evolving Thanks

Its interesting to think back at what I may have been thankful for in the past and how that all evolves and changes as years pass and your life takes different paths.  This year I am especially thankful for the following:

• Josh, a man who loves me pregnant belly or not, with or without makeup, and despite all of my weird habits and quirks.
• My daughter, Joslynn, a spit-fire of energy and sweetness all rolled into a tiny little person whom I love more every day.
• My son, Jackson, a laid-back little flirt who loves smiles, and snuggles and completely tolerates his older sister's antics.
• My family, especially my mom for all of her delicious food that I will put in my belly on Thursday.
• My home, although we are already outgrowing it, it gets the job done.
• Showers--ah, showers.  I LOVE being clean.  I have cherished every showering moment since my return to civilization nearly 4 years ago.
• My bed.  It is so comfortable and lets me rest so well, although I would like to spend more time there.
• My job.  Each day is a new challenge that will keep my mind sharp.  I love the people I work with; they make tough days (weeks) bearable.
• My students.  We all have those fantastic students who see you as a person, who greet you in the morning, say goodbye in the afternoon, ask about your weekend, and wish you well for your holidays--they make my job worth the stressfulness of being broke.
• Tony Horton--he's the guy in my favorite workout videos.  He motivates me and makes me feel like a million bucks!
• Fruit! 
• Laughter
• Smiles
• Hugs
• Dark chocolate...shh!...don't tell Tony.

I don't make pie...

I don't make pie...but I do have two cutie-pies!

I have some recent pictures of my incredibly adorable children!

The headless man with the vacuum cleaner is my husband.  Joslynn has her little popper machine, which she thinks is a vacuum as well.

Jackson loves to smile!  What more can I ask for?

Joslynn thought she'd be cute by hiding half way under our bed--she was right, she is cute. 

More pictures coming soon to a blog near you!

Juggling

This picture represents a typical day when I have both of the kids by myself.  I am usually trying to entertain one while I feed the other; this is just the first time anyone else is around to capture the picture.

Lokelani Kamea

This is my Hawaiian name.

I got a little addicted to quizzes tonight.  I should be reading...

I'm Movin' to Mauritania!

I had Oprah on in the background as I washed bottles and sippee's this afternoon.  Oprah was having a "Beauty" special and it was all about how different cultures perceive beauty.  Well, in Mauritania, when it comes to women, the bigger the better! Women are expected to be overweight.  It is sexy!  And get this...men are supposed to be thin!  Its a complete reversal of American culture.  They said their food is so greasy and sugary that there is no dieting, and you can't even get diet food there!  I'm packing my bags...

Single Mom

Okay...I know that I can't even hold a candle to the actual hardships and struggles that an actual single mom faces, but sometimes (No...many times) I feel like a single mom.  [Maybe it is compounded by the fact that both of my children are under the age of 18 months.]  I love being a mom and fully accept all jobs and responsibilities that go with that job description, including poop, puke, crying and no sleep, but some days are just tougher than others...

My hat is off to all of you actual single moms out there.  You're awesome!

I'm a German Shepherd!

Thank you, for the "Thank you"

I had a great Veteran's Day!

First, some of my homebase kids said "thank you" before Mr. Williams' morning announcement. Then, throughout the day, I had MANY "thank you's" from both students and staff.  The school day rounded off with a great poster with tons of signatures and messages of thanks from my team.  I left work in a great mood and proceeded to go to Applebee's with mine and Josh's parents for dinner.  We (Josh, myself and both our dad's) were given a free entree' because of our veteran status. 

Honestly, a thank you really does make a difference!  This was my best Veteran's Day yet!

So, thank you to my team, my students and Applebee's!

Time

Where does the time go?  Just when I think that I am getting caught up on school stuff (like planning more than a few days in advance), I get behind again.  Then I put off stuff like reading my book club book...uh-oh...

WT at Walmart

I have never pretended to be perfect...and I usually try not to be judgemental, although there is a whole lot of white trash (WT) walkin' around at Walmart, with the exception of Luke M. (whom I saw there this afternoon) shopping for a costume.

Now, you might be asking yourself, "Why do you go there if you don't like the WT?" My answer: its cheaper, and sadly, close to our house. All I know is, I get in there, get my stuff and get the heck out of Dodge as quickly as I can weave through all of the chaos.

P.S. This is my 4th blog of the day! This is certainly a record for me. 100th blog here I come!

Productive Morning

I was on a mission to get some stuff done this morning and I can't believe how productive I was. It feels great to be able to cross so many things off my list, even though half of them were only on a list in my head. Before noon I had already accomplished the following:

• Got Joslynn up and dressed
• Gave her a pre-breakfast snack and milk
• Put away toys and books
  
• Vacuumed the house
• Cut Jack's fingernails
  
• Started laundry
• Changed sheets on our bed and Joslynn's crib
• Organized the kids' closet
• Organized the crawl space, which contains 10+ totes with kids' clothes in them--which I am also very grateful for.
  
• Cleaned the litter box
• Ate breakfast
• Cleaned all of the old food and crumbs out of Joslynn's high chair
• Dusted
• Made an errands list: groceries, Sam's Club, etc...
  
• Cleaned mirrors
• Changed several wet/messy diapers
• Added items to all of our 'Christmas Ideas' lists
  
• Went for a run with Joslynn (who fell asleep on our stroll)
• Showered
  
• Cleaned the stovetop (Its harder to get that junk off than you would think)
• Made Joslynn her lunch
• Put her down for her nap
• Made banana bread muffins
• Ate my own lunch

Now, it is 2:42 pm. I assume that Joslynn will be waking at any minute. I am going to continue with laundry, and run my errands later. Its been a productive day at home. AND, I got to write on my blog 3 times, and even included pictures--I'm so proud of myself.

Damn, I Make Cute Kids!

I finally got around to uploading my pictures on my computer, and realized what gorgeous kids I have!

Don't they just melt your heart?

"Treat!"

Joslynn had her first "trick or treat"ing experience tonight. She loves being outside, so it was a great day for that. She can say "treat" although she is very reluctant to do so on cue. Isn't she the cutest zebra ever?!

Crabby Cures

This day didn't start out the best...in fact, I've been having a rough few days...since about last Wednesday, I would say...anyway, I started out Monday (today) being crabby for several reasons, which I will delight you with in just a minute.  I just need to say, though, that starting off your Monday with crabbiness, is not the best way to start off your week.

Crabby reason #1: None of the printers at school like me.  I swear these evil machines have it in for me.  I can't print to either of the upstairs printers because they truly are the spawn of Satan himself.  The one downstairs is finicky and on its way to really pissing me off since it picks and chooses when it wants to work.  You might be asking yourself, "What's the big deal?" Well, I'll tell ya...I have a sub on Tuesday that I was preparing for, I had morning supervision in the gym/cafeteria, a meeting during my prep and an appointment after school (more things to add to my crabby list) so every spare second was spent trying to get my substitute's materials all in place (because if you are a teacher, you know that its more work to be gone than to be there). So, why can't that frickin' printer work?

Crabby reason #2: I had morning supervison in the gym/cafeteria.  Its really not that bad to do, but I honestly have a million other things that I could be doing to get my classroom in order for my students (so that they can actually learn) so it is just frustrating to spend my time doing things like that.

Crabby reason #3: I am hacking up a lung.  I have been sick and now it is in my lungs.  I am wheezing and coughing, which makes my job of speaking in front of a classroom quite cumbersome.

Crabby reason #4: I had to kick a kid out of class today.  Now, this kid and I have not had a clash of personalities yet this year and I was very excited about that, so my biggest feeling upon this incident was disappointment that I had to resort to removing him from my classroom.

Crabby reason #5: The person that my meeting was with was late.  This has happened like 3 times before.  I wouldn't be too stressed about it other than the fact that I am waiting during my prep, and I am holding in the scream as I sit and watch precious seconds tick away.

Crabby reason #6: More kid issues.  I had to do some more very 'middle school' disciplining and it made me feel like a giant crab.

Crabby reason #7: I haven't worked out since last Wednesday.  I feel jiggly already.

Crabby reason #7 1/2: I had to go to the dentist today.  

Now, I call this my crabby reason 7 1/2 because this is where my day started to get better (yes, I said better) and I thought that maybe there was a cure to this crabby cloud that was hanging over my day...

Crabby Cure #1: On the way to the dentist I heard Beyonce's new song, "If I Were A Boy" (which I really like for some reason) and I just blarred it.  I don't get to do that often, because I usually have the kids.

Crabby Cure #2: Laughing gas.  Even though my nose was plugged, I still took some nice long pulls off of the laughing gas nose hose.  It was great giggly times.

Crabby Cure #3: I had a good talk on the phone with my sister.

Crabby Cure #4: I actually got to go to the store and get some ZiCam.  I figured I'd give it a try...it can't hurt.

Crabby Cure #5: Jackson's pictures.  We had Jackson's pictures taken when he was a month old and we are finally getting them back!  He is the cutest baby boy ever!

Crabby Cure #6: My friend Shanna is coming over tomorrow to show me a new purse she found for me for a steal of a price.

Crabby Cure #7: Thank you! Joslynn is like a little sponge of knowledge.  I think she learns something new each day...literally!  Today she said, "Tanku" (Thank you).  This weekend we taught her "treat" in preparation of Halloween on Friday.

Crabby Cure #8: I don't have to go to work tomorrow!!!!!  Even though part of my day will be spent bringing Joslynn to the dermatologist, whom she will most likely be terrified of, it will be great because we really need to get her treated so she isn't so miserable.  Either way, no work, no eighth graders, no drama!

So, in reality, I have 7 1/2 things to be crabby about and 8 crabby cures; it evens out!  My life is pretty good. 

Uh-Oh! (but cute)

Josh gave Joslynn her bath tonight while I was feeding Jack.  She likes to run around naked when she is done rather than getting dressed (who wouldn't?).  Well, I had a bad feeling about it tonight when she ran over to the couch where I was sitting and stood there making her bathroom sounds.  By the time Josh heard me or realized what she was doing, the damage was done...good thing it was only pee and not #2, otherwise Josh would have been in trouble.

Some new words have popped up since I recently updated Joslynn's vocabulary list.  She's so adorable when she says everything that I am always trying to get her to same something.  In addition to her many other words, she also says:

• Mimy (Mindy, one of our daycare providers)
• Jojo (another daycare provider, Jodi)
• Skew me (excuse me)

She can eat yogurt and applesauce with a spoon. She also knows how to cover her mouth when she coughs. She pats her butt to be changed when she is stinky, and she plugs her nose for "pew." I tell ya, no other human being could ever be as cute as her when she is smiling on que with green beans stuck in her teeth.

I'm such a loser!

I'm all proud of myself because I put all of my 151 kids' test scores into my gradebook (with curved scores), I corrected 3 sections of projects from a previous unit, then corrected another 3 sections of projects for a new unit (only 2 sections to go), and I did all of this before noon.  Then I looked around and realized what a loser I am.  I am the only person at school today (other than the custodians, and Shara did stop in for a few minutes).  I must be the biggest nerd alive! Although, I am a nerd that is actually par with my 'correcting' duties; usually, I am several weeks behind.  Oh, well, this will help me keep sane during the next few weeks.

Overdue update

I can't believe how non-addicted to blogging I have been for the past month or two.  I guess that's what happens when you are a single mom (basically that's what I am until the short break between soccer and wrestling), and then I am on my own again until mid March.  

The kids are doing great!  Jack is mellow and smiling at anything and everything and growing like a weed.  He has got to be over 15 pounds now.  You know he's big when he is wearing size 2 diapers as a 3 month old! He is still a little snuggle-pants, and he is a better sleeper (knock on wood) than Joslynn is.  

Joslynn is signing more and more.  She has most recently mastered two signs put together, "more please."  Its so cute!  She's my little genius.  She's still super picky, so we're trying to find some more foods that she'll eat. In addition to signing, she is working on saying a lot of words too! Here are some that I can think of...I'm sure I'm forgetting some.  

• Mama
• Dada
• Juuuuuu! (juice)
• Hot
• No, no
• Uh, oh
• Puppy
• Moo
• Baa (sheep)
• Duck
• lolo (lotion)
• Mo/more
• choo (shoe)
• book

She understands so many more too!  I love this stage where she can communicate back to us. She blows us kisses, gives great hugs and makes us laugh and smile more than I ever thought I could.

Josh is almost done with soccer, so I will have a little more help until the LONG wrestling season starts.  That makes the long, cold winter seem even longer than normal.  Right now, he is consumed with his STAR paper for his masters, coaching and work.  Hopefully we can manage to spend some time together so I can keep it somewhat fresh in my memory what being married is like.

I have been swamped juggling school, 2 kids, house, cleaning, etc... Grading 150+ papers/test/homework assignments keeps me busy until the late night hours.  I am still getting my classroom organized after moving back in.  My room is almost set up with the new technology, although once its in, then I need to figure out how to run all of it.  The house is constantly a mess and I never thought that would be okay with me, but I have gotten used to letting things slide a bit. (It still kills the inner Monica in me).  I do have a mini-self celebration as of late; I lost 20 pounds since my 6 week post-baby check-up.  Yeah!  Now the trick is to keep it off.

Now I need to start planning ahead on my science stuff so that I have a spare minute or two during the spring instead of having all of this late-night business.  How do I keep getting further behind when I should have more time than this???

Overall, the Stewart's are doing well.  We're busy, but good.

Its been a while...

Wow, I can't believe how much time has gone by since I last blogged.  I guess this means that I am no longer addicted to blogging like I was a few months ago.  Now, I hardly have time to sleep let alone do any blogging.  Although, tonight I am procrastinating on doing some homework and thought that I should drop a new line here, and also check on everyone else's blogs.  I am super envious of Holly's Productivity blog.  Wow! I really need to crack down if I want my list to look like hers!

Poor feet...

Ouchy!  My feet hurt so bad.  You would think that for someone who chases after a 15 month old, someone who runs, and someone who did a 15+ mile road march in combat boots would be used to the aches and pains that plague your feet from having to stand all day.  Nope.  Every year I go through the same thing: I have to re-train my feet.  They have been spoiled with comfy flip flops all summer; now, they need to be muffled inside of shoes and then tortured some more by having to stand all day on a concrete floor.  Why can't pretty shoes be comfortable?  Josh always says, "Just wear your running shoes!" And I scoff telling him that running shoes just won't fly with dress pants.  Why is it that men can do that and look just fine, and a woman would look hideous?  Damn double standards!

Happy Hour

I enjoyed meeting with many fellow staff members after open house last night for some adult refreshments, and I just want to say, especially to any fellow Southies who may be reading this, that I am just starting my second year, but I feel so welcome with everyone there.  It may sound corny but I feel like a part of the family now.  Thanks for lots of laughs and good times...my cheeks hurt from laughing so much by the end of the night.

Good enough...

I have decided that Joslynn is part monkey.  She is totally moving into the climbing phase, so naturally I was (and my mom) freaked out about our living room furniture arrangement.  We live in a bi-level and the couch sat in front of the banister railing.  Now that she is climbing all over the place, I am taking precautions to prevent her from tossing herself over the railing and down onto the stairs.  Since our house isn't very big, it is quite difficult to rearrange furniture and make it work.  Then you have to take your furniture into account.  For instance, we have this large TV armoire and it now needs to sit with its back toward the open foyer area.  It doesn't look very good, but its basically the only workable solution to the couch problem.  So I guess it will have to be good enough until we win the lottery and can buy a new house.

No way! I can't believe it!

92%DRUNKARD

Created by OnePlusYou - Free Online Dating

I agree with Andrea, mine came more from vocabulary/trivia knowledge than from anything else. I am the pickiest drinker you will ever meet.

23 pounds! Are you kidding me?

Sadly, I'm not kidding.  And the 23 pounds refers to the 23 pounds of "baby weight" that I have not yet lost.  When I think about how much 23 pounds is, all I have to do is look at my daughter because Joslynn weighs exactly 23 pounds.  That is a whole little person that I have yet to lose!! :( Now, I know that aiming for my pre-pregnancy weight is quite a lofty goal, so I would settle for losing 15-20 of those pounds because I know that I am not Heidi Klum or Dara Torez, who look fabulous 5 minutes after having children.  I, of all people, shouldn't focus on the number itself, because scales are the devil, but rather focus on how I feel and how my clothes fit (that is usually what I do), but NONE of my clothes fit!*  Not even the big ones I wore after Joslynn was born! Yeah, yeah, yeah...I know it has only been six weeks, but that is a whole lot of weight, and if it doesn't start coming off now, its probably not going to at all.  I think I am going to go cry...

*Stretchy yoga pants are the only exception and they don't count due to the fact that they are...stretchy.

I can breathe a bit easier now...

I went into school today, with my trusty sidekick (my sister Laura) to help me out.  It was a bit rocky at first since there was some confusion when we first started and also some disappointing news regarding when deadlines will be actually finished.  All in all, I think it was a pretty productive day; the sad part is that there is still quite a bit to do and not enough time to do it in. Yikes, open house in less than a week!

Poor Lolo...

I was a 100 meter hurdler in high school, so that is certainly one of my favorite events to watch during the Olympics.  Lolo Jones was the huge favorite to win the event and she is also so deserving as a person because she has literally hurdled so many hardships in her life, and she is just a class act.  She got caught on the 9th hurdle...I almost cried...Poor Lolo...I wish I could give her a hug.

How hard is it???

So, about a week ago, I was told that the science rooms (that were completely gutted) would be ready to move in to today.  I was thrilled because I cannot even think about curriculum or lessons until I have my setting in order, so I was super excited to get started on organizing my "new" room.  Then, as I came in to school today, I was frustrated and disappointed to see them still painting, wiring and that no furniture was or could be moved in yet.  My plans were put on hold and I  am slightly in panic mode since my days are numbered before this needs to be done, and I only have daycare on a few occasions between now and then.  I mean, how hard is it for them to have $h!t done on time??? ....(Sorry, needed to vent)

Things that I'll miss...

As of August 25th, it is back to work for me, and I have started to think about all of the things that I will miss.  For the non-teacher type, you are most likely rolling your eyes with a deep sigh, thinking to yourself, 'Oh, poor you...going back to work after having 10, or so, weeks off.' And for those of you who are fellow teachers, you understand the need for that rejuvenation, otherwise our job would be impossible, if we wanted to maintain our sanity, and you also understand that those precious weeks go by, literally, in the blink of an eye.  Here are a few of the things that I will miss as soon as those kids start pouring into the classroom.

1. My kids
2. Josh
3. No alarms
4. No deadlines
5. Impromptu outings
6. Showering at 11am
7. Blogging
8. Flip-flops
9. Comfy clothes (my yoga pants)
10. Not caring what time it is
11. Watching Tori & Dean in the middle of the day
12. Procrastinating
13. Leisurely getting my day started

I'm sure I'll think of many more as soon as that day arrives...

Babysitters & $Money$

How much do babysitters get paid now-a-days to watch two kids?  During the school year, I asked several students how much they make for babysitting. The average I heard was $5.00/hour; how much should that increase for two children?  Should the pay increase when they are both in diapers, and one is a newborn?  I also heard students say that they got paid less if the kids are just sleeping...

We need a babysitter for one of our workshop days and, of course, all of our families are unavailable, daycare can't take them, so we need to get one of our babysitters...which, I am guessing, will have sports practice of some kind and will be unavailable.  On the chance that they are available, I thought I should ask around so that I don't short-change them.

Why does everything have to be so complicated?

Food Rut

I am running out of food ideas to feed Joslynn.  We are in a food idea rut. Now, she's still young and can't chew difficult things like steak, obviously, so we are limited many times in our food choices for her.  What does everyone else feed their young ones?  (Other than chicken nuggets, macaroni and cheese, and hotdogs...)

I am fresh out of ideas and need some variety for the poor kid.  Any new fun, and easy ideas are much appreciated.

Just me...and the grasshoppers

This morning I was able to go for a run all by myself...just me, and the annoying grasshoppers that infest the weeds along the trail.  As much as I love my children, it was really nice to go out and have a little time just for me.  I could enjoy the wind in my hair, instead of worrying about it being in theirs.  I could run without asking myself any of the following questions: 'Are they too hot? Are they too cold?  Is the sun in their eyes?  Are the bugs bothering them?  Did a grasshopper just jump in the stroller? Will I be able to finish my run before someone starts fussing?'

I have to admit that I enjoy the feeling of 'company' when I am running, and I also enjoy the challenge of having to push something along with me.  They do help to motivate me to keep going because its like having a workout partner there; I can't quit early because then I am shortchanging their ride as much as I am cheating myself by stopping early.

I don't know if it was because I was minus a stroller and children that made me faster, or just my sense of rejuvination at the gorgeous day and what a great run I was having, but I ran surprisingly fast (which I don't do...I go for distance, not speed).  I ran 2 miles in 21 minutes, so that is about 10.5 minute miles...not far off from my typical 9.5-10 minute miles.  I was really proud of myself. Yeah me! (I love those little mini-victories.)

**No, Kelli, I'm not afraid of the dentist...its just hard to step out of that comfort zone.

Know a good dentist?

Josh and I are looking for a new dentist.  I have been going to the same dentist my entire life.  I am always too chicken to go to someone new.  You know how traumatic going to the dentist can be, so I am sure that you understand my attachment.  I still love my dentist, although his office is in Rice and getting there is always a challenge (seeing as I have nothing else to do but spend that time driving). Josh has just bounced around from dentist to dentist since he graduated high school, so we would like to find someone much closer to home, especially when our little munchkins will be seeing the dentist before we know it.

If you have any recommendations, good or bad, please let us know!

Chandler wins!

To those of you who voted on my "Choose one 'Friend' to be friends with" poll, I am curious about the results.  You don't necessarily have to say that you did or didn't vote for whoever, but I am curious about why Chandler won.  Don't get me wrong, I like Chandler just as much as the next guy, although I was just surprised that he took the early lead, 3 to 1 against Phoebe, and then ultimately took the gold in the end: Chandler 4, Phoebe 2, and Rachel 1.  

Now, I know what some of you may be thinking...Doesn't she have anything better to do or think about? (except for Andrea, that is, if she is as big a fan as I think she is)  but, I can't help it, "Friends" is one of my addictions and that also goes for anything remotely related to it.

I survived the 1st post-baby run!

This morning was absolutely gorgeous outside, so a perfect day for a jog around the development. Not only did we get a chance to test drive our new double jogger, but I finally got out of the house (without melting in the humidity) and I took my first jog since Jackson was born.  I wanted to go earlier in the week, but I was suffering from a sinus infection and could hardly breathe, so postponing my run was probably smart.  It went pretty well.  Today was also the day that Josh and I decided we are going to try to rebuild some of our good habits.  We no longer have a pregnant belly to blame for DQ, Leeann Chin, or Gary's Pizza binges.  We both have new workout goals, which will be a challenge in and of itself with two little ones in the house.  Wish us luck as we try to rejuvenate our former healthy habits!

A few things to make you smile...

McDonald's anyone?  Just kidding...poor kid.  She has her favorite blankie stuffed down her pants.  Watching her walk was hilarious!

Have you ever been this tired?  I came home from the store today to see that Joslynn had fallen asleep on the floor.  You might be thinking, "What's so special about that?"  Well, this is the child that will avoid naps at all costs.  She has never napped anywhere other than daycare and home...she is very stubborn, so you can imagine my surprise when I came home.  As I walked up the stairs, Josh said, "You have to see this..."  I never suspected to see her sprawled out on the living room floor.  I had to get a picture!

'Ah, this is the life...'

Not a whole lot of explaining needed here.  It must be hard work being so cute.

Smilin'...sorta

I was trying my hardest to capture all of his cute little facial expressions and I seemed to have gotten a smile (sorta).  What a cutie!

Peek-a-boo!

Joslynn is fascinated with her new baby brother. Here, she is standing on her tippy-toes to peek into his basinet.  When he is in the crib, she always wants to reach in and touch him. Hopefully she will continue to like him as the years go on.

Holy COW! (literally)

Jackson had his 2 week check up appointment yesterday.  He has surpassed his birth-weight of 9 lbs 2 oz. with his cute little 10 lb. body.  He has also grown an inch since birth.  I was (pleasantly) shocked to see how much weight the little porker had gained (since Joslynn didn't reach birth-weight until she was 3 or 4 weeks old).  He certainly is a growing boy!  He'll be eating a porkchop-on-a-stick by State Fair time!

More blogging questions...

For someone who is 65-68% addicted to blogging, you would think that I would have this all figured out by now...but, I don't...so I'll ask my fellow addicts.

I started a school blog the other day, not much on it yet, but its started nonetheless.  I didn't want my "about me" section to say what it does on my school page like it does on my personal page and I can't figure out how to separate the two.  After I posted a comment on Kelli's page I felt like a total dork because it is listed as "Ms. Stewart says..."  So, if anyone can offer me the quick and easy solution to that one, I would greatly appreciate it!

65%...Sounds about right!

65%How Addicted to Blogging Are You?

Created by OnePlusYou - Free Dating Site

At first, I asked, is this test rigged? I ask that question because I took this quiz twice. The first time I took it, I came back with 68% addicted to blogging. I took it again, because immediately I said to myself, 'No way can I be more addicted than Andrea..." I certainly don't mean that in a bad way. So, upon thinking about my second test score, I realized that she is just super talented at the writing, pictures and little mini-quizzes and games that keep me so enthralled...and this is what keeps me 65-68% addicted to blogging! I love seeing what everyone, not just Andrea, comes up with! So I am raising my glass to my fellow 'blogger addicts'--thanks for getting me my "fix" each day.

Moon Walker

60%

Created by OnePlusYou - Free Dating Sites

I don't know how good a D- is...although, for some of my students, they would be thrilled to get 60%. Isn't that sad?

What am I going to wear???????

So, for the past many months I have been wearing maternity clothes. For all of you fellow moms out there you know, as well as I do, that you don't just magically fit right back into your pre-pregnancy clothes the minute the baby is out, although that is every woman's secret wish.  

Since Jackson was born I have been sporting the same 3 pairs of stretchy, super-comfy yoga pants.  I have one black pair of Prauna's, one black pair of Nike's and one brown Target brand.  I have been doing some thinking about my near future and what I might be wearing in the next five weeks once I start workshops and school again.  As I sit in my super-comfy pants, I have no idea what I am going to wear!  I am certainly not going to fit into my pre-pregnancy clothes, since that was like 2 years ago!  I certainly can't wear my same 3 pairs of yoga pants every day...so what am I going to wear?  I've been thinking, and below are the four choices that I have come up with, whether I like them or not.  

1. I can buy new clothes that are larger sizes.  Problem:  That would be a lot of money and (what I would hope) a waste of money since I really want to fit back into my pre-pregnancy clothes--even though its been so long since I've worn them that they are probably out of style by now.
   
2. I can squeeze my 'badonkadonk butt' into my smaller clothes.  Problem:  I don't know if it would be physically possible, and I know that it would not look appropriate, nor be comfortable in the least.  I also might be sued by one of my students' families after my buttons pop off my clothes and poke out one of their eyes.
   
3. I can come to work sporting my yoga or sweat pants. Problem: That might get me fired for not looking like a professional.  We can't have that, since, I already look "too young to be a teacher" to one of my previous families...and that wasn't meant as a compliment.
   
4. I can starve myself to try to lose the weight.  Problem: I have never been, nor will I ever be the type of woman who lets her life be ruled by food.  I love it all too much to give it up even for one meal, let alone any more than that!  I hate scales, diets and counting calories...so this one probably won't work either.
   

If you can come up with a reasonable solution to my wardrobe dilemma, then please feel free to share your thoughts.

Ode to the stretch

I haven't been feeling as inspired in my blogging lately, so I've been trying to think of something interesting to write about.  

Well, I don't know how interesting this is, but I was inspired by my new little boy.  He LOVES to stretch!  He does the cute little moans and groans as he wiggles to get out of his blankets and even does the 'doggy-leg-shake'.  Every once in a while he'll do a little stretch and make some noise and it reminds me of how great it feels to stretch...and doesn't it always feel better when you make the stretching noises? 

Due to my inspiration, I have listed several reasons why you should take some time today, and every day, to do some stretching...

1. Increases flexibility
2. Improves circulation
3. Better posture
4. Helps prevent injury
5. Relieves stress--and according to Doctor Oz (from Oprah) relieving stress is the key to anti-aging! 
   

Happy stretching!

Green With Wiki Envy

My fellow blogging addicts are really making me look like a slacker during my "vacation" (as anyone who doesn't teach would call it).  I totally have 'wiki envy' of Holly, Kelli and Andrea... That should up my nerd score by like 20 points right there!

I keep telling myself that I have plenty of time to get curriculum planning done, although maybe I should install one of those cool countdown 'thingys' so that it motivates me a little bit more...

Table For Four Please...

Wow!  How is it that just 14 months ago we were responding to the host(ess) "Two" when they asked "How many?" at a restaurant.  Now, all of a sudden, when we do actually go out again, we will be saying, "Four!"  I have two babies, I can't believe it!

Joslynn is doing such a great job at being a big sister.  We make a big deal about it when she touches Jackson "gentle" and we clap and say, "good job!" and she smiles and claps for herself, feeling so proud.

Jackson started gaining weight back right away, so we were thrilled, since it was a struggle with Joslynn for about the first 3 weeks to a month.  He had gained back 5 ounces from the day of discharge (Saturday) to his check-up on Monday morning!  Is this a clue to what lies ahead? Food stamps?

He likes to stretch out...which is certainly no different from what he did when he was in my belly.  He makes the cute little groaning stretch noises as he does it and then resumes his leisurely position.  He has skinny little chicken legs which makes his feet look even longer.

He is quite the little snuggle pants.  Look at that little face!  He's such a sweetie; he already knows the sound of my voice.  I feel so loved!

Here is three generations of Stewart men; how handsome! More updates on the fam to follow...