So, yesterday I called my mom and said, "I just wanted to let you that we are fine." To which she replied, "Why are you calling? That doesn't sound good."
The truth be told, I hadn't planned to call, and we had been dealing with the situation just fine all afternoon long. I had stocked up on bottled water, canned goods, flashlights, batteries, band-aids, you know, basic emergency supplies. And, I didn't want to worry our parents. And then, I logged on to the Internet, and found out that the story had gone national. There in blazing red ink on Foxnews.com, the headlines flashed: Chemical Fire Forces Evacuation of Thousands in Bryan, Texas.
You see, we live in B.C.S. (Bryan, College Station). As a matter of fact all morning long, the sirens were wailing all around us and I believe there were at least 4 other cities that sent their fire departments as well as the county fire department. Apparently there was this huge, orange cloud that hovered on the horizon for an hour or so, and then it disappeared and was replaced by black clouds fading to gray and a sharp smell.
We missed all of that. The guys were comatose because of their early morning stint with the tarp, the window and the rain (sounds like a CS Lewsi book title), and the girls were playing outside and spraying each other with water, and I was making lunch and cookies. We didn't find out about this emergency until Blinn College called us to notify us that classes were canceled for the rest of the day, and that we needed to follow evacuation procedures.
That was when we turned on the radio, and sent me for emergency rations. Boy was the town busy. People driving everywhere. Parking lots filled. Stoplights backed up. It took me 20 minutes to drive to the store. I would rather have walked, but the chemical fire... I could've walked to the store in 15 minutes. Oh, well.
Even then, we didn't think of calling anyone. I mean, this stuff happens in Portland all the time, and it never makes the headlines. We didn't count on the fact that a city of 80,000 was being evacuated. Excuse me, a city of 80,000 near a campus of 50,000 near a city of 4 million. I guess that makes it national news for at least 30 minutes.
So, at around 6:00 last night, I guiltily picked up the phone and made my first phone call: my mom. At 6:10 I finished my last phone call: my mom. Yup, I only called one person. I figured if she didn't know about the fire, then probably nobody else had heard of it. Especially since she was at home, not working, watching TV with Big Grandma.
I guess I was mistaken. I woke up this morning to a plethora of emails. Sorry about that. Thanks for the concern. I guess I should've called....
Friday, July 31, 2009
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Ooooo! Cool!
Today the weather has finally abated and we are enjoying a truly cool breezy day. It is only 77F. The girls are outside tromping around in their boots, splashing in mud puddles and getting unbelievably dirty and wet. I'm pretty sure that today is bath day, or perhaps shower and then bath.
I dragged myself out of bed at around 7:00 this morning because the girls were up and making so much noise. As I stumbled around the kitchen turning on the espresso machine, getting down the espresso grounds, washing a pot to make oatmeal, finding a demitasse, the flood gates of heaven opened and it started to pour. I was pleased to note that Tanner's stint up on the roof was successful and not a single drop of water came into the kitchen. That was when I heard Katie say in a very guilty tone of voice, "Uh, oh..." I closed my eyes and said a silent prayer. No coffee in the system makes for a very grumpy mommy. I eyed my espresso machine longingly, but left it alone and went into the girls' bedroom.
Uh, oh...
Water was pouring in through the top of their window. I shouted for Tanner. Ran into Jonny's room and woke him up, and we all began to stumble around, sleepy eyed, looking for tarps. I found some rice crackers, two bananas and some grapes and told the girls to eat it for breakfast. Tanner got the ladder and went into the attic. Jonathan sat on the edge of our bed and numbly stared at the black hole to make sure no rodents dropped into the house, and I searched the back room. Twenty minutes and no-coffee later, we struggled out into the storm with a white tarp, nails, hammer and ladder.
I got the better part of the deal and only stood outside for about 30 seconds. Then I got to run back inside while the guys set up the ladder, nailed the tarp to the eaves of the roof and then secured it to right below the top of the window. When they got back inside their shorts and shirts were very wet. Wet like they had jumped into a pool fully clothed. I thanked them, sent Jonny to bed and asked Tanner to stay up for about 1/2 an hours so that I could run to Target and get some rash cream for Georgie and diapers for Reagan.
You see, during their struggle with the forces of nature, Reagan needed a diaper change. Unfortunately there were no diapers, and I still hadn't had my cup of coffee. This is the first time I've ever lost track of how many diapers I had left for my babes, so Reagan was running around the house naked. A trip to Target was of paramount importance, and I didn't want to send Tanner since I figured he was more tired than I was.
So, to Target I went. Diapers, rash cream, and a dry cappuccino. And of course while I'm drinking my coffee I wandered down the aisles and discovered shelves of toys discounted 50%, so I took care of a bunch of Christmas and birthday shopping. Then I came home.
The rain has let up, and the guys are fast asleep, and Georgie has drifted off to baby-sleep-land. Now, I just have to tackle the kitchen and wash all the dishes, but I think I'll have a hot cup of coffee before I do that.
I dragged myself out of bed at around 7:00 this morning because the girls were up and making so much noise. As I stumbled around the kitchen turning on the espresso machine, getting down the espresso grounds, washing a pot to make oatmeal, finding a demitasse, the flood gates of heaven opened and it started to pour. I was pleased to note that Tanner's stint up on the roof was successful and not a single drop of water came into the kitchen. That was when I heard Katie say in a very guilty tone of voice, "Uh, oh..." I closed my eyes and said a silent prayer. No coffee in the system makes for a very grumpy mommy. I eyed my espresso machine longingly, but left it alone and went into the girls' bedroom.
Uh, oh...
Water was pouring in through the top of their window. I shouted for Tanner. Ran into Jonny's room and woke him up, and we all began to stumble around, sleepy eyed, looking for tarps. I found some rice crackers, two bananas and some grapes and told the girls to eat it for breakfast. Tanner got the ladder and went into the attic. Jonathan sat on the edge of our bed and numbly stared at the black hole to make sure no rodents dropped into the house, and I searched the back room. Twenty minutes and no-coffee later, we struggled out into the storm with a white tarp, nails, hammer and ladder.
I got the better part of the deal and only stood outside for about 30 seconds. Then I got to run back inside while the guys set up the ladder, nailed the tarp to the eaves of the roof and then secured it to right below the top of the window. When they got back inside their shorts and shirts were very wet. Wet like they had jumped into a pool fully clothed. I thanked them, sent Jonny to bed and asked Tanner to stay up for about 1/2 an hours so that I could run to Target and get some rash cream for Georgie and diapers for Reagan.
You see, during their struggle with the forces of nature, Reagan needed a diaper change. Unfortunately there were no diapers, and I still hadn't had my cup of coffee. This is the first time I've ever lost track of how many diapers I had left for my babes, so Reagan was running around the house naked. A trip to Target was of paramount importance, and I didn't want to send Tanner since I figured he was more tired than I was.
So, to Target I went. Diapers, rash cream, and a dry cappuccino. And of course while I'm drinking my coffee I wandered down the aisles and discovered shelves of toys discounted 50%, so I took care of a bunch of Christmas and birthday shopping. Then I came home.
The rain has let up, and the guys are fast asleep, and Georgie has drifted off to baby-sleep-land. Now, I just have to tackle the kitchen and wash all the dishes, but I think I'll have a hot cup of coffee before I do that.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
date night and other things
The benefit of having Jonathan live with us is that we have a built in babysitter. We haven't had a date night since we moved to Texas unless you count the week we were in PDX and Joanelle and Josh watched our kids for us. I guess I should say we haven't had a date night IN Texas. So, last night was our first date night. Tanner was really excited about it since he planned it all out and surprised me.
I must say, he's getting pretty good at it. We started out by walking to Starbucks, and then we strolled along the river walk and spent a little time praying together. Wow, it is nice to get in some prayer time without rushing because you're afraid that the kids are going to interrupt at any minute. By that time it was almost 8:00, and I was glad I was dressed for the cool, night air. I wore socks, tennis shoes, pants and a t-shirt and felt a little "cold". It must have only been 85F or so. I thought we would head home, but Tanner said we had one more stop to make. I thought maybe he wanted some Taco Bell, but instead, he took me across the street to the ice skating rink. I thought maybe he wanted to check it out before school started because he's taking it for P.E., but no, apparently it was public skate time.
So, like a couple of teenagers, we headed out to the ice. It's been almost 10 years since I went gliding across the ice, and boy was there a relearning curve. I had a lot of fun screeching and begging kids to move out of my way so that I wouldn't topple over them. Now, here is the funny part. Of course there has to be a funny part to this story, right? Well, it has to do with those darn Texans. The AC was on full blast at the rink, but it wasn't as cold as the ice rinks in PDX. The air was probably 70F or more. Now, here is the catch, all the kids at the rink were wearing, hats, gloves, parkas, you name the winter gear: they had it ALL on. The rink had a warning sign posted about hypothermia and please dress warmly. I saw kids shivering, flailing their arms, stamping their feet. I heard one kid complain that it was too cold couldn't they get some hot chocolate.
Thoughts on other things: I think Reagan has been watching too many episodes of Murder, She Wrote. Today, she showed us how to be dead, and then she opened her eyes and said she'd been dead for at least 2 hours. Then she told us that she was strangled. Time for some Dora the Explorer, I think. Here are pictures of Reagan staring at the screen whenever we watch Meet the Robinsons. It is her favorite movie. I just wish I could find a "Lewlis" toy.
Reagan was very proud of this tower she built. Of course, she didn't come up with the idea on her own. I showed her what she could do, and then she proceeded to copy me. I was pretty impressed that she got the spacing correct. She could also identify quite a number of the letters. She pointed out "O" and "S" and "A" and "B". Hmmm...pretty cool.
Georgie has learned how to turn around while standing. She's very proud of this and tries it whenever her sisters get up to dance.The pictures below are of a fish that is found in the rivers and lakes around here. It's a pike, but more to the point the locals call it an Alligator Mar. Yes, those are teeth! And this is a small one our neighbor explained. They can weigh 200lbs or more! I don't think we'll be going in the water any time soon.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Kate's first play date
Isn't this just great? We move to Texas and suddenly find ourselves immeresed with friends. We took Kate to her first play date today. She has made friends with one of my violin student's sister. So, since today is teaching day, we took her over early this morning so that they could get in a couple of hours of play time. Let's just hope it all goes well and they don't end up squabbling and crying before the alotted time period expires.
Reagan didn't know what to do with herself once her sister was gone, but I think she has been pleased with the outcome. She got to tromp around outside with Daddy and move brush to the front yard. She went to Michaels with Mommy and got a new set of blocks. When we went to Starbucks, she got a mini, vanilla bean scone. She gets to play with her blocks without having to share. Yes, I think she is enjoying a little break from big sister. The house is much quieter, and I wonder if this is what it will be like when Kate is at school.
Reagan didn't know what to do with herself once her sister was gone, but I think she has been pleased with the outcome. She got to tromp around outside with Daddy and move brush to the front yard. She went to Michaels with Mommy and got a new set of blocks. When we went to Starbucks, she got a mini, vanilla bean scone. She gets to play with her blocks without having to share. Yes, I think she is enjoying a little break from big sister. The house is much quieter, and I wonder if this is what it will be like when Kate is at school.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Georgianna is really walking now. Today at the Children's Museum, she would walk from toy to toy rather than crawl. It was only toward the very end of our visit that she became too tired, and then she laid on the floor and cried until I picked her up.
We picked out Kate's backpack and lunch pail today. She really wanted this white backpack with pink flowers, but it was $39! Forget it. I pointed out that it was a little too big for her, and we moved on to the other racks. I showed her Hello, Kitty, Ni-hao Kailan, Hannah Montana, Transformers, all sorts of backpacks, but she didn't like any of them. I didn't bother with the Disney Princess backpack because the last time I showed her something princessy, she wasn't at all interested. She's been obsessed with Hannah Montana. So, I was very surprised when she let out a squeal of delight and ran toward a hot-pink backpack with Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty. I was relieved to find that it was on sale for $8.99. On to the lunch pails. I suggested a guitar shaped Hannah Montana lunch pail, but Katie frowned at me, put her hands on her hips and shook her head. "They have to match, Mommy!" Okay, then. We searched three aisles of lunch pails before we found the last Princess lunch pail in hot-pink. It was shoved behind a soccer ball. She also wanted to get a matching thermos, but I drew then line at the thermos. The cheapest one we could find was $16. I told her we would have to check Wal-mart first.
And of course, I did it again. I thought it was a nice, cool day. I turned the big AC off and just cooled the girls' room and Jonny's room. Then I took the girls to the park for a picnic. Georgie proved herself to be a true climber. She clambered up the stairs, found the slide, found the tunnel, clambered down the stairs. She is amazing. I am scared! Reagan chased Squirrel Nutkin and Chippy the Squirrel, while Kate made friends and played on the monkey bars. I forgot to bring formula for George, so we stopped by the house before going to the Children's Museum. Well, you all should know that I read that little temperature sign at the CVS that's on Texas Ave. It read 99F. So much for a cooler day though I must say that I'm not the only one acclimatizing. Even Jonathan remarked at how cool it was. I laughed at him and told him what the thermometer was reading. His response was to go grab a beach towel and try for a little suntan. I don't suppose he'll listen to my dire warnings about skin cancer. Just like people ask me why my skin looks so great. I'm so lucky to look so young. I shrug, cuz I know they won't want to hear what I have to say. It's called sunscreen and reduced sun exposure. I just don't sunbathe anymore. I did when I was 14 or so, but by the time I was 18, I had quit. Lots of sunscreen and moisturizer and, of course, my dad's genetics helps.
We picked out Kate's backpack and lunch pail today. She really wanted this white backpack with pink flowers, but it was $39! Forget it. I pointed out that it was a little too big for her, and we moved on to the other racks. I showed her Hello, Kitty, Ni-hao Kailan, Hannah Montana, Transformers, all sorts of backpacks, but she didn't like any of them. I didn't bother with the Disney Princess backpack because the last time I showed her something princessy, she wasn't at all interested. She's been obsessed with Hannah Montana. So, I was very surprised when she let out a squeal of delight and ran toward a hot-pink backpack with Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty. I was relieved to find that it was on sale for $8.99. On to the lunch pails. I suggested a guitar shaped Hannah Montana lunch pail, but Katie frowned at me, put her hands on her hips and shook her head. "They have to match, Mommy!" Okay, then. We searched three aisles of lunch pails before we found the last Princess lunch pail in hot-pink. It was shoved behind a soccer ball. She also wanted to get a matching thermos, but I drew then line at the thermos. The cheapest one we could find was $16. I told her we would have to check Wal-mart first.
And of course, I did it again. I thought it was a nice, cool day. I turned the big AC off and just cooled the girls' room and Jonny's room. Then I took the girls to the park for a picnic. Georgie proved herself to be a true climber. She clambered up the stairs, found the slide, found the tunnel, clambered down the stairs. She is amazing. I am scared! Reagan chased Squirrel Nutkin and Chippy the Squirrel, while Kate made friends and played on the monkey bars. I forgot to bring formula for George, so we stopped by the house before going to the Children's Museum. Well, you all should know that I read that little temperature sign at the CVS that's on Texas Ave. It read 99F. So much for a cooler day though I must say that I'm not the only one acclimatizing. Even Jonathan remarked at how cool it was. I laughed at him and told him what the thermometer was reading. His response was to go grab a beach towel and try for a little suntan. I don't suppose he'll listen to my dire warnings about skin cancer. Just like people ask me why my skin looks so great. I'm so lucky to look so young. I shrug, cuz I know they won't want to hear what I have to say. It's called sunscreen and reduced sun exposure. I just don't sunbathe anymore. I did when I was 14 or so, but by the time I was 18, I had quit. Lots of sunscreen and moisturizer and, of course, my dad's genetics helps.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Jonny made one mistake...
Today, after I had finished doing laundry, fixing our Internet connection, feeding kids, cleaning kitchen, doing even more laundry, picking up toys, vacuuming, cleaning the girls room, walking to the store to get formula, and making dinner, Jonathan said, "I'm bored."
His big sister smiled and handed him a trowel, some joint compound and a trough. I stopped what I was doing, took him over to one of the many walls that are still in need of mudding, and showed him how to smear the stuff on and smooth it out. He worked on it until dinner was ready, and, funny thing, he wasn't bored anymore.
Now, the great thing about all of this was that I've been procrastinating about mudding that particular wall because it has a long stretch of ceiling work, and there's no way to get a ladder in the room, so, for me, it would have meant teetering precariously on a makeshift platform or standing on my tiptoes for an hour. Well, Jonny did it for me, and I think I'll make that his "special" job. We have lots of ceiling work (please, imagine an evil grin at this point).
Kate made chocolate chip cookies in her Easy Bake Oven today. It's just like I remember my Easy Bake. One 100watt lightbulb, and a lot of fun. When I make chocolate chip cookies, I double the recipe and then divide the dough into four portions. Then I make one set of cookies and freeze the rest. It makes it easy to have a "baking" day with the girls, and they think I'm a great mom because when they ask if they can bake cookies, I say, "Sure," and then I pull out a package of frozen cookie dough, let it thaw for 30 minutes and hey, presto we're making cookies. I figured if Pillsbury can do it, why can't I?
Jonathan discovered the joys of my once a month cooking thing. Well, I don't really cook just once a month. I know that there are plenty of people out there that do, but it's just not my style. However, whenever meat goes on sale, I buy a bunch of it, marinate it, and throw it into the freezer. And then, if I decide to make spaghetti one night, I make three batches instead of one, and then put two batches in foil pans and into the freezer they go. Makes sense, right? So, the other night, when I had my mini-melt, it just happened to be around dinner time. So, Jonny, realizing that dinner wasn't going to materialize, opened the freezer, found one of the tins, and stuck it in the oven. Then all we had to do was chop up stuff for a salad, and we were ready for dinner. So, technically, Jonny made dinner for us...
His big sister smiled and handed him a trowel, some joint compound and a trough. I stopped what I was doing, took him over to one of the many walls that are still in need of mudding, and showed him how to smear the stuff on and smooth it out. He worked on it until dinner was ready, and, funny thing, he wasn't bored anymore.
Now, the great thing about all of this was that I've been procrastinating about mudding that particular wall because it has a long stretch of ceiling work, and there's no way to get a ladder in the room, so, for me, it would have meant teetering precariously on a makeshift platform or standing on my tiptoes for an hour. Well, Jonny did it for me, and I think I'll make that his "special" job. We have lots of ceiling work (please, imagine an evil grin at this point).
Kate made chocolate chip cookies in her Easy Bake Oven today. It's just like I remember my Easy Bake. One 100watt lightbulb, and a lot of fun. When I make chocolate chip cookies, I double the recipe and then divide the dough into four portions. Then I make one set of cookies and freeze the rest. It makes it easy to have a "baking" day with the girls, and they think I'm a great mom because when they ask if they can bake cookies, I say, "Sure," and then I pull out a package of frozen cookie dough, let it thaw for 30 minutes and hey, presto we're making cookies. I figured if Pillsbury can do it, why can't I?
Jonathan discovered the joys of my once a month cooking thing. Well, I don't really cook just once a month. I know that there are plenty of people out there that do, but it's just not my style. However, whenever meat goes on sale, I buy a bunch of it, marinate it, and throw it into the freezer. And then, if I decide to make spaghetti one night, I make three batches instead of one, and then put two batches in foil pans and into the freezer they go. Makes sense, right? So, the other night, when I had my mini-melt, it just happened to be around dinner time. So, Jonny, realizing that dinner wasn't going to materialize, opened the freezer, found one of the tins, and stuck it in the oven. Then all we had to do was chop up stuff for a salad, and we were ready for dinner. So, technically, Jonny made dinner for us...
About the video I just posted
I think you actually have to log on to my blog in order to see it. The blog is: http://www.ourtexanadventure.blogspot.com. Also, the link should appear at the bottom of this email. Hope that works. Love, Noelle
For the grandparents
I thought a video demonstrating Georgie's latest accomplishment would be a good thing for all y'all back home. My apologies if it gets you just a wee bit seasick.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Georgie Update!
Well, it finally happened! Georgie took her first step today and her second and her third. She's reving up the engines and getting ready to go. I caught her climbing sheet rock today. They were stacked like a ladder against some plywood, and she figured it was a great idea to climb them. She made it up 4 rungs of sheet rock and would have gone higher, but she ran into the stroller.
Back to School!
It is official. Kate is a big girl. I knew this day was coming, but it has come too soon. What will I do when she graduates from high school next year? Sniff, I'm just not sure I can handle this whole growing up thing.
What has brought this maudlin attitude? We went school supply shopping today. We found pencils, erasers, glue, crayons and kleenix. That use to be about the extent of our back to school shopping. We might add three or four peachy folders, scissors and filler paper. Well, Kate's list was extensive. She needed colored pencils, markers, construction paper, composition paper, "feel 'n' learn" paper, glue sticks, glue, pencil grips, pencil tip erasers, hand sanitizer, paper towels, sanitizing wipes, sketch pad, extra long construction paper, extra long white construction paper...wow. I'm pretty sure I didn't get all that stuff when I was a kid. We spent $60 on school supplies for one kid.
At least they have a Walmart here, but 20 cents adds up pretty fast when you have to get two or three of everything. The last thing on the list is a backpack, and I'm going to leave that for later. As Tanner explained it, "a backpack is like the latest car model...you just have to have it, so you work out a payment plan." I know that what she'll want this week is not what she'll want in 3 weeks. Can you imagine going into a store with a child who sees the "latest" backpack, unfortunately, you've already bought her backpack, so the answer is, "no you can't have it"?
On the weather front...
Today was a lot cooler, only 96. There are billowy rolls of white clouds right above us, but in the far distance there are the darker, more ominous grays. Depending on the wind pattern, we might get another thunderstorm this evening.
What has brought this maudlin attitude? We went school supply shopping today. We found pencils, erasers, glue, crayons and kleenix. That use to be about the extent of our back to school shopping. We might add three or four peachy folders, scissors and filler paper. Well, Kate's list was extensive. She needed colored pencils, markers, construction paper, composition paper, "feel 'n' learn" paper, glue sticks, glue, pencil grips, pencil tip erasers, hand sanitizer, paper towels, sanitizing wipes, sketch pad, extra long construction paper, extra long white construction paper...wow. I'm pretty sure I didn't get all that stuff when I was a kid. We spent $60 on school supplies for one kid.
At least they have a Walmart here, but 20 cents adds up pretty fast when you have to get two or three of everything. The last thing on the list is a backpack, and I'm going to leave that for later. As Tanner explained it, "a backpack is like the latest car model...you just have to have it, so you work out a payment plan." I know that what she'll want this week is not what she'll want in 3 weeks. Can you imagine going into a store with a child who sees the "latest" backpack, unfortunately, you've already bought her backpack, so the answer is, "no you can't have it"?
On the weather front...
Today was a lot cooler, only 96. There are billowy rolls of white clouds right above us, but in the far distance there are the darker, more ominous grays. Depending on the wind pattern, we might get another thunderstorm this evening.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Mini-melts...
I had a mini-meltdown today. Well, okay, Jonathan would say, "Where did that come from?" But trust me, it's been a long time coming. In the end, Tanner made a list of all the things that were weighing on me, and asked me to prioritize them. When I pointed out that every item on the list had been on a previous list of thing to get done about 5 months ago he frowned.
It's true that yesterday he fixed the leak in the roof. The roof that has been leaking since January 15th. And, three weeks ago he took out the windowless window that was on our list from before we moved here. Unfortunately, there was a lot of "other" things that needed to be done. Like fixing the girls' bunk bed so that they could each have their own bed instead of sharing a single twin matress. We bought the bunk beds in February. And then there is finishing the mudding of the walls, the rat in the attic, the fans for the bedrooms, the window that is nailed to sheet rock in order to keep the rain from pouring into the house, stuff like that.
Does that explain the meltdown? Far be it from me to say that Tanner hasn't been doing anything. As a matter of fact he's barely taken a breath of air, but everything seems to be coming to a head. Like Georgie crawling and shoving nails into her mouth makes it time to build the shed in the backyard. The shed that we started to build in March. There is just so much that needs to be done, and between working, going to school and sleep, there just isn't much time to work on the house. I do what I can, but I have to stop when Georgianna begins to scoop up sheet rock joint compound. Between kids, house and sleep, there just isn't much time to work on the "other" stuff.
So, in answer to Jonathan's, "where did that come from?" I shrug my shoulders and say, "you figure it out."
It's true that yesterday he fixed the leak in the roof. The roof that has been leaking since January 15th. And, three weeks ago he took out the windowless window that was on our list from before we moved here. Unfortunately, there was a lot of "other" things that needed to be done. Like fixing the girls' bunk bed so that they could each have their own bed instead of sharing a single twin matress. We bought the bunk beds in February. And then there is finishing the mudding of the walls, the rat in the attic, the fans for the bedrooms, the window that is nailed to sheet rock in order to keep the rain from pouring into the house, stuff like that.
Does that explain the meltdown? Far be it from me to say that Tanner hasn't been doing anything. As a matter of fact he's barely taken a breath of air, but everything seems to be coming to a head. Like Georgie crawling and shoving nails into her mouth makes it time to build the shed in the backyard. The shed that we started to build in March. There is just so much that needs to be done, and between working, going to school and sleep, there just isn't much time to work on the house. I do what I can, but I have to stop when Georgianna begins to scoop up sheet rock joint compound. Between kids, house and sleep, there just isn't much time to work on the "other" stuff.
So, in answer to Jonathan's, "where did that come from?" I shrug my shoulders and say, "you figure it out."
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
More about the weather...
I'm still amazed at how well this family is acclimatizing. Just this morning after tumbling out of bed, I took a look outside and thought it looked a little cold. It felt cold in the house, too, and it wasn't because the air conditioners were on since I turn them off at night once the outside temperture dips below 90. Well, since it was a cold morning, I shook Tanner awake and pulled on long pants, socks and tennis shoes. It was a perfect day to do yard work, get up on the roof to fix the leaks, stuff like that. I weed whacked while Jonathan mowed the lawn and Tanner got up on the roof to see if he could repair it before the next rain storm.
It started to heat up around 11:00, so I went inside, made waters, a late breakfast, a cup of coffee and debated about switching to shorts or capris. The shorts won, but only because my capris were in the laundry. Then, since Georgie went to sleep, I decided to visit the Farm Patch for some groceries while the girls watched Dora and Tanner read up on his state government.
On my way to the Farm Patch I passed the temperature sign. I always look because I seriously can't ever tell how hot or cold it is. It was flashing 95. I chuckled because I was driving with the windows rolled down, no ac, just enjoying the "cool" breeze. I double checked the temperature when I came home, and at 12:00 the thermometer was reading 97, so I'm pretty sure my "temperature" sign was right.
It started to heat up around 11:00, so I went inside, made waters, a late breakfast, a cup of coffee and debated about switching to shorts or capris. The shorts won, but only because my capris were in the laundry. Then, since Georgie went to sleep, I decided to visit the Farm Patch for some groceries while the girls watched Dora and Tanner read up on his state government.
On my way to the Farm Patch I passed the temperature sign. I always look because I seriously can't ever tell how hot or cold it is. It was flashing 95. I chuckled because I was driving with the windows rolled down, no ac, just enjoying the "cool" breeze. I double checked the temperature when I came home, and at 12:00 the thermometer was reading 97, so I'm pretty sure my "temperature" sign was right.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Jonny's first thunder storm and our first hail storm
We have been so thankful the last few days. The heat has dramatically been reduced, and the temperature has been hovering in the mid-90's the entire weekend. This morning, after church, we went for a lovely walk. The wind was blowing very gently, and the sun was covered by a light scattering of clouds so sunglasses weren't necessary. The cicadas were out chirruping and the grackles were feasting on butterflies and mosquitoes.
I had been tempted to not take the walk right away, hoping for a cooler evening, but I am glad that we decided on the walk because this evening brought a thunder storm. Jonathan was slightly skeptical when I told him that thunder storms are loud and big. Today, he learned what I meant. It started out as a distant rumble, and we thought about turning off the computers, but the air just didn't seem heavy enough to merit a big storm. After about five minutes of thunder without rain, a big cracking sound happened right over the house, and the rain started. We quickly turned off the computers and unplugged them. We also opened the windows since it seemed kind of silly to run an air conditioner when the entire sky was grayed out by the rain.
Still, Jonathan wasn't that impressed. I smiled inside, feeling a little evil, because I knew this was just the beginning. The wind hadn't started yet. Tanner had wisely only let us open the windows just a little bit. He unwisely wanted to take the girls outside. I don't know why he wanted to do this, but I put a very firm, loud foot down. He kept trying to explain that since there were big metal light poles the chances of the girls being struck by lightning were infinitesimal. I just shook my head. The girls stayed inside. It was a good thing, too because the wind kicked up and the storm moved right above us. There were flashes of lightning with simultaneous claps of thunder, the wind started to do its swirly thing and then big pellets of hail started to fall. Tanner got so excited because the hail was dime sized. He wanted to go out and grab one. Inside, I'm shaking my head. Are all men like this? Haven't they read the stories of people getting struck by lightning, struck by hail, struck by...???
And they wonder why we worry about them...
I had been tempted to not take the walk right away, hoping for a cooler evening, but I am glad that we decided on the walk because this evening brought a thunder storm. Jonathan was slightly skeptical when I told him that thunder storms are loud and big. Today, he learned what I meant. It started out as a distant rumble, and we thought about turning off the computers, but the air just didn't seem heavy enough to merit a big storm. After about five minutes of thunder without rain, a big cracking sound happened right over the house, and the rain started. We quickly turned off the computers and unplugged them. We also opened the windows since it seemed kind of silly to run an air conditioner when the entire sky was grayed out by the rain.
Still, Jonathan wasn't that impressed. I smiled inside, feeling a little evil, because I knew this was just the beginning. The wind hadn't started yet. Tanner had wisely only let us open the windows just a little bit. He unwisely wanted to take the girls outside. I don't know why he wanted to do this, but I put a very firm, loud foot down. He kept trying to explain that since there were big metal light poles the chances of the girls being struck by lightning were infinitesimal. I just shook my head. The girls stayed inside. It was a good thing, too because the wind kicked up and the storm moved right above us. There were flashes of lightning with simultaneous claps of thunder, the wind started to do its swirly thing and then big pellets of hail started to fall. Tanner got so excited because the hail was dime sized. He wanted to go out and grab one. Inside, I'm shaking my head. Are all men like this? Haven't they read the stories of people getting struck by lightning, struck by hail, struck by...???
And they wonder why we worry about them...
Saturday, July 18, 2009
A lazy Saturday meandered on by today. We barely stirred the entire day. Tanner slept until 2:00. The girls took a nap at 3:00. We all took a walk at 7:00. The sum of our day of rest.
I spent the morning staring at the Great White Screen. The little cursor flashed in the corner for an hour and a half as I thought in vain. I'm struggling with the last 3 chapters of my book, and every sentence I accomplish only seems to make the next one even harder. But, I am being disciplined and not stirring from my chair until I've put in at least 3 hours of work. The going is slow and frustrating. Perhaps it is the weather.
Today started out hot and muggy. Due in part to the rain fall we had yesterday. By this evening the wind had kicked up and chased all of the humidity away so that when we stepped out for our evening walk, I felt like running. Too bad it was only a short walk to the store and back again, but any walk is better than nothing. I keep reminding myself that when we arrived here in January that walk was unbearably long and hard, and now I don't consider it a walk at all. By the time we came home the humidity was back, and we were all hot and sweaty.
So, into the shower went all the kids. I've finally discovered what it seems all mom's except for me knew about baby soaps. I've been frustrated for years. I bathe my kids, and within a few minutes they don't SMELL bathed. Truly. I remember a time when I gave Kate a bath, put her in the car and drove to my mom's house, and when I got there, Emily said, "Ew, yuk, I'm going to give her a bath." Well, last week I found out that moms use Baby Magic, not Johnson and Johnson. I decided to give it a try, and now, I enjoy the wonderful baby smell that I've been searching for the last 5 years. I guess better late then never, right?
Tomorrow is Sunday. Early to bed, early to rise and perhaps we'll make it to the early service which is my favorite.
I spent the morning staring at the Great White Screen. The little cursor flashed in the corner for an hour and a half as I thought in vain. I'm struggling with the last 3 chapters of my book, and every sentence I accomplish only seems to make the next one even harder. But, I am being disciplined and not stirring from my chair until I've put in at least 3 hours of work. The going is slow and frustrating. Perhaps it is the weather.
Today started out hot and muggy. Due in part to the rain fall we had yesterday. By this evening the wind had kicked up and chased all of the humidity away so that when we stepped out for our evening walk, I felt like running. Too bad it was only a short walk to the store and back again, but any walk is better than nothing. I keep reminding myself that when we arrived here in January that walk was unbearably long and hard, and now I don't consider it a walk at all. By the time we came home the humidity was back, and we were all hot and sweaty.
So, into the shower went all the kids. I've finally discovered what it seems all mom's except for me knew about baby soaps. I've been frustrated for years. I bathe my kids, and within a few minutes they don't SMELL bathed. Truly. I remember a time when I gave Kate a bath, put her in the car and drove to my mom's house, and when I got there, Emily said, "Ew, yuk, I'm going to give her a bath." Well, last week I found out that moms use Baby Magic, not Johnson and Johnson. I decided to give it a try, and now, I enjoy the wonderful baby smell that I've been searching for the last 5 years. I guess better late then never, right?
Tomorrow is Sunday. Early to bed, early to rise and perhaps we'll make it to the early service which is my favorite.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Kate is a ready for school, I think...
Do you need translation? Once upon a time there lived a bird...
A break from the heat
Think of the first few weeks of a baby's life: wanting to nurse, going through all the right motions and not quite succeeding. For the last few days you could just feel the clouds aching to let it rain. I've heard of people getting headaches because the whole earth wanted to rain, but for some reason it just couldn't figure out how to go about it. After a false start on Wednesday, the clouds finally let loose early this morning, and we got a good drenching.
Kate was ecstatic. When she peered out the windows this morning, she came bounding in my room, begging for her rain boots. We found her boots and Reagan's boots, and I let the girls tromp around in the puddles outside our house. I wish you could have heard their excited shouting as they exclaimed from puddle to puddle. Reagan was exuberant and surprised that once she had splashed all the water out of one puddle, there would another puddle that she hadn't noticed before just a few hops away.
The adults, safely sheltered inside, decided to open all the windows and let the house take a deep breath of fresh air. So, we turned of the air conditioner (yes, we had to turn them off because they were running), and opened all the windows with screens on them. There are a total of four. Then, I stood in the doorway and shooed away any bugs that might try to fly into the house. I doubted that there would be very many since the rain was coming down with a vengeance.
It was wonderful to be able to take a walk in the middle of the afternoon, but even then, by the time we got home, we were all ready for copious draughts of water and lemonade. Georgie downed a bottle and worked a couple of sips of water into her system. I used my oven for the first time in about a month and made bread in the middle of the day instead of at night. I even put a load of laundry in the dryer.
Most of you might not realize that drying clothes, baking and cooking all occur long after the sun has gone down. Because once our house is hot, it stays hot and refuses to cool down even with the air conditioners running. We're pretty sure it is because of the lack of insulation, but we're working on that. Hopefully we'll get another portion of this house done before the beginning of August.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
So, the heat finally got to me today. Up until this point, I've been shrugging my shoulders and thinking, "What's the big deal...just stay inside." Well, today, I had to get out of the house because, instead of going to bed when they got off work, the guys broke out the tools in the wee hours of the morning and framed the shed, so I kind of felt obligated to get the girls out of the house. Dusty, sweaty, red-eyed and very tired, the guys offered up silent prayers of thanks when I declared that today was a Children's Museum Day.
The first part of our trip was pretty normal. We stopped at Starbucks and then Taco Bell before I drove round and round and round the parking lot looking for a bit of shade. When that didn't materialize, I covered the windows with the beach towels that are always in the trunk, and we went inside. The girls just love the museum. They spent the first part of the morning playing with the train set, and then migrated to painting and then pretend food shopping, and at the end, Georgie and I found ourselves in the music room. I showed her the tambourine which she promptly put around her neck. She turned to crawl away, and I thought that perhaps the necklace thing was a mistake, so I took it off of her and showed her how to play it again. She immediately grabbed it and pulled it over her head. I did this a couple more times until I realized, "hey, she likes it." Well, around 3:30, I called it quits, loaded them in the car and headed home. The two small ones fell asleep, so I thought it would be a great opportunity to drop them off, and take Kate on a mini-date. Anything that involves just two people is a "date" for Kate. Even if it is just food shopping. So, we went on a "date" to the Farm Patch.
And this is where the heat almost did me in. The Farm Patch is an outdoor market. I spent a total of 20 minutes buying fruits and vegetables. I almost fainted even though I had a bottle of water and a 32oz ice cold lemonade.
So, if you are wondering why I have a picture of a funny colored watermelon, it's to ask my mom, "is this golden melon?"
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Reagan went to her first movie today. B.C.S. in conjunction with Cinemark does this thing called Kids Summer Tuesdays. During the month of June and July, they rerun the most popular kids films of the year for only a $1. I just found out about it last week, so I looked it up and found out that this week it would be Horton Hears a Who. I thought, what a great way to spend Tuesday morning. This way Dad can sleep soundly right before I have to start teaching.
So, today, I woke the girls up early, gave them breakfast and baths, packed snacks and drinks, and we piled into the car to celebrate Reagan's first movie. When Kate was a baby, we would take her to movies all the time, but when Reagan was born, I eschewed that form of entertainment. Balancing a 3 year old and a baby in a darkened theater just wasn't my cup of tea. I never thought I would haul THREE kids to a movie theater, but I figured it would be filled with parents and kidletts who wouldn't mind if Georgie started to fuss or Reagan got restless.
Georgie finished her bottle and her snacks before the movie started. And she wasn't happy to sit on my lap. Luckily, she's not quite done with the whole nursing thing, so she settled down on my lap and fell asleep. The girls really enjoyed the time in the theater. Reagan got scared by the monkeys. Kate laughed when they all started singing, and Georgianna slept. It looks like this might be something we do a couple more times this summer.
So, today, I woke the girls up early, gave them breakfast and baths, packed snacks and drinks, and we piled into the car to celebrate Reagan's first movie. When Kate was a baby, we would take her to movies all the time, but when Reagan was born, I eschewed that form of entertainment. Balancing a 3 year old and a baby in a darkened theater just wasn't my cup of tea. I never thought I would haul THREE kids to a movie theater, but I figured it would be filled with parents and kidletts who wouldn't mind if Georgie started to fuss or Reagan got restless.
Georgie finished her bottle and her snacks before the movie started. And she wasn't happy to sit on my lap. Luckily, she's not quite done with the whole nursing thing, so she settled down on my lap and fell asleep. The girls really enjoyed the time in the theater. Reagan got scared by the monkeys. Kate laughed when they all started singing, and Georgianna slept. It looks like this might be something we do a couple more times this summer.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Even the little things
We have put so much prayer into Kate's schooling, but I am ashamed to say that I am surprised that the Lord pays attention to even the small details. Oh, me, of little faith, if your Father in heaven knows when a sparrow falls...
Everyone knows how excited we were to hear that Kate was accepted by the charter school. We're not sure what did the trick. The school is so competitive to get into that most of the time they use the lottery system.
When we visited the school, I could tell that the principal was just going through the routine. He showed us the classroom, the playground, the cafeteria, and he was about to dismiss us when I asked him about the Turkish posters that were all over the place. He explained that the school offered language courses in Turkish, French and Spanish. I sighed, and expressed how disappointed I was that they didn't have a Mandarin course. He asked me why Mandarin, and I explained that Kate had been in an immersion preschool in PDX, and that we were really hoping for something like that.
Up until that point I kind of think he had us labeled as a couple of young kids trying to figure out what would be best for the kid. His eyes started to sparkle, and he started to ask Kate questions, and of she stared at him without saying anything. Then she finally looked at him, and copying his slightly accented voice she said, "Ay don unterstan yu." The principal smiled, led us to the door and said goodbye. He told us that we would know if she was accepted by the middle of the following week.
I'm pretty sure that her schooling at Yu Miao last year is what clinched the deal. Isn't it funny how God guides us even before we ask for the thing that He wants us to want?
So, then came the flurry of paper work. We had to fill out registration forms, get immunization records, give them emergency contact numbers and things like that. The school requires a uniforms, and I was cringing at the expense. This is not the time of year to start looking for school uniform pants on sale, and it was looking like we'd have to spend over $100 on pants, skirts, belts and shirts. And of course, the Lord looked down upon us and sent me to wander around Sears. I found 3 pairs of pants for $4 each. Since the cheapest pair of pants we'd been able to find up until then was about $13, I almost burst into tears. I guess I didn't realize how much I had been worrying about affording her clothes for the year.
I am glad for one thing. A uniform will make back to school shopping so much easier. The only "details" or "fashion statements" that Kate will be allowed to make will be in her shoes and her belt. Shopping for her belt was just a little traumatic. She had to choose two belts, and she couldn't decide. She wanted all FOUR belts. Well, that was just a little over the top for me, so I made her choose. She burst into tears because she loved all of them. Afterward we stopped for a little snack and talked about the difficulty of choosing between good things.
Everyone knows how excited we were to hear that Kate was accepted by the charter school. We're not sure what did the trick. The school is so competitive to get into that most of the time they use the lottery system.
When we visited the school, I could tell that the principal was just going through the routine. He showed us the classroom, the playground, the cafeteria, and he was about to dismiss us when I asked him about the Turkish posters that were all over the place. He explained that the school offered language courses in Turkish, French and Spanish. I sighed, and expressed how disappointed I was that they didn't have a Mandarin course. He asked me why Mandarin, and I explained that Kate had been in an immersion preschool in PDX, and that we were really hoping for something like that.
Up until that point I kind of think he had us labeled as a couple of young kids trying to figure out what would be best for the kid. His eyes started to sparkle, and he started to ask Kate questions, and of she stared at him without saying anything. Then she finally looked at him, and copying his slightly accented voice she said, "Ay don unterstan yu." The principal smiled, led us to the door and said goodbye. He told us that we would know if she was accepted by the middle of the following week.
I'm pretty sure that her schooling at Yu Miao last year is what clinched the deal. Isn't it funny how God guides us even before we ask for the thing that He wants us to want?
So, then came the flurry of paper work. We had to fill out registration forms, get immunization records, give them emergency contact numbers and things like that. The school requires a uniforms, and I was cringing at the expense. This is not the time of year to start looking for school uniform pants on sale, and it was looking like we'd have to spend over $100 on pants, skirts, belts and shirts. And of course, the Lord looked down upon us and sent me to wander around Sears. I found 3 pairs of pants for $4 each. Since the cheapest pair of pants we'd been able to find up until then was about $13, I almost burst into tears. I guess I didn't realize how much I had been worrying about affording her clothes for the year.
I am glad for one thing. A uniform will make back to school shopping so much easier. The only "details" or "fashion statements" that Kate will be allowed to make will be in her shoes and her belt. Shopping for her belt was just a little traumatic. She had to choose two belts, and she couldn't decide. She wanted all FOUR belts. Well, that was just a little over the top for me, so I made her choose. She burst into tears because she loved all of them. Afterward we stopped for a little snack and talked about the difficulty of choosing between good things.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Walking
It was close to 8:00 as I put on my shoes, and grabbed my wallet. I could hear the kids splashing in the bathtub, and Tanner muttering something about not getting water on the floor. I quietly let myself out of the side door, and hesitated on the door step. I was debating whether to take the car to the mall and enjoy a brisk walk in air conditioned comfort, or if I should grab a bottle of water to help combat heat fatigue and brave the sun baked outdoors.
Bottle of water in hand and sunglasses donned, I started my solo trek. I don't like walking in quiet neighborhoods alone, so I headed for the nearest major thoroughfare. I love feeling the hot air swish around me suddenly as a speeding car goes by. The sun was still unbearably bright, and I found myself squinting despite the sunglasses. Luckily, I would be walking with the sun at my back for the greater part of the trip, and I hoped that when I turned around, the sun would be setting behind the Tower.
A nice, swarmy wind started up just as I began my walk, so I managed to stay cool. I passed tempting ice cream stands and snow cone stands and McDonalds and a Sonic Burger, but I pressed on without turning to the right or to the left. I had better, purer things on my mind. I was headed for the book store. I knew I could achieve a half hour of uninterrupted browsing pleasure with the promise of an undiscovered treasure. In reality, it was a great place to cool off before heading back home.
The walk home was even better than the walk to the book store. The sun had just sunk behind the Tower, and a thin blanket of clouds turned from white to 90's melon sorbet complete with iridescent shimmer. The wind settled down to the flat stillness of a Texan evening, and I had a sudden craving for lemonade with a sprig of mint and lots of ice. Luckily, home was just around the next bend, and I had a few more sips of water left.
Bottle of water in hand and sunglasses donned, I started my solo trek. I don't like walking in quiet neighborhoods alone, so I headed for the nearest major thoroughfare. I love feeling the hot air swish around me suddenly as a speeding car goes by. The sun was still unbearably bright, and I found myself squinting despite the sunglasses. Luckily, I would be walking with the sun at my back for the greater part of the trip, and I hoped that when I turned around, the sun would be setting behind the Tower.
A nice, swarmy wind started up just as I began my walk, so I managed to stay cool. I passed tempting ice cream stands and snow cone stands and McDonalds and a Sonic Burger, but I pressed on without turning to the right or to the left. I had better, purer things on my mind. I was headed for the book store. I knew I could achieve a half hour of uninterrupted browsing pleasure with the promise of an undiscovered treasure. In reality, it was a great place to cool off before heading back home.
The walk home was even better than the walk to the book store. The sun had just sunk behind the Tower, and a thin blanket of clouds turned from white to 90's melon sorbet complete with iridescent shimmer. The wind settled down to the flat stillness of a Texan evening, and I had a sudden craving for lemonade with a sprig of mint and lots of ice. Luckily, home was just around the next bend, and I had a few more sips of water left.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Of drinks and things
Jonathan has corrupted me! I am incensed! How dare he bring his evil vices into this family! You might be wondering what he has done...well, I'll tell you. Yes, I will. I will not hold back any of the details. I will explore, expunge and exfoliate! He has bought a liter of Dr. Pepper! Can you imagine that?
Of course, that explains why he is fitting in just fine. Apparently there are only two types of soda pop in Texas. Namely, Dr. Pepper and Coke. You either say, "I'd like a Dr. Pepper," and then they'll get you a Dr. Pepper, or you say, "I'd like a Coke," and then they ask, "What kind?", then you have to say, "Sprite," or "Root Beer" or "Mountain Dew". But I digress.
At first, Jonathan was content to buy a box of cold cereal. I was fine with that. Cold cereal, I could accept that. Then he went to the store and bought Zingers. Okay, small, chocolate Twinkies. I could handle that. After all, there are some great benefits to eating chocolate, right? But I had to draw the line at Dr. Pepper. When he came home with the bottle, I lectured him. How could he like that vile tasting brew. At least bring home Coke (what flavor, please?), but leave the Dr. Pepper on the shelf.
He looked at me, eyebrow faintly raised (yes, he can raise one eyebrow). He tilted his head down, just a bit. Then he asked, "So, when's the last time you tried it?" Well, the truth be told, I had last had a sip of Dr. Pepper when I was about 10. I was in California, visiting my Aunt Carolyn, and my cousin Michael had given me a small glass of Dr. Pepper. I gagged on the drink. To me, it was disgusting.
But Jonathan knew better. He knew how to sell this potent brew. He looked at me and saw my drooping shoulders, my blood shot eyes. He knew that I hadn't slept the night before. He offered me a Zinger, and then he said, "Dr. Pepper has the highest caffeine content out of most sodas." He got me. I confess, I stopped munching on the Zinger. I looked at the cup of brown liquid in his hand. It did look like coffee. I pushed my jaw forward a bit, squinted my eyes and said, "Well, I'll try just a sip."
That was the end. The ice cold brew slid across my tongue, trickled down my throat, and gave me a zing that all of the chocolate Zingers hadn't been able to do. I felt awake, ready to take a walk, ready to run even though it was over 100 outside, ready to wash dishes, clean house, fold laundry, chase after kids...yes, my brother corrupted me. But then, it is my fault that he's left handed, so there.
Of course, that explains why he is fitting in just fine. Apparently there are only two types of soda pop in Texas. Namely, Dr. Pepper and Coke. You either say, "I'd like a Dr. Pepper," and then they'll get you a Dr. Pepper, or you say, "I'd like a Coke," and then they ask, "What kind?", then you have to say, "Sprite," or "Root Beer" or "Mountain Dew". But I digress.
At first, Jonathan was content to buy a box of cold cereal. I was fine with that. Cold cereal, I could accept that. Then he went to the store and bought Zingers. Okay, small, chocolate Twinkies. I could handle that. After all, there are some great benefits to eating chocolate, right? But I had to draw the line at Dr. Pepper. When he came home with the bottle, I lectured him. How could he like that vile tasting brew. At least bring home Coke (what flavor, please?), but leave the Dr. Pepper on the shelf.
He looked at me, eyebrow faintly raised (yes, he can raise one eyebrow). He tilted his head down, just a bit. Then he asked, "So, when's the last time you tried it?" Well, the truth be told, I had last had a sip of Dr. Pepper when I was about 10. I was in California, visiting my Aunt Carolyn, and my cousin Michael had given me a small glass of Dr. Pepper. I gagged on the drink. To me, it was disgusting.
But Jonathan knew better. He knew how to sell this potent brew. He looked at me and saw my drooping shoulders, my blood shot eyes. He knew that I hadn't slept the night before. He offered me a Zinger, and then he said, "Dr. Pepper has the highest caffeine content out of most sodas." He got me. I confess, I stopped munching on the Zinger. I looked at the cup of brown liquid in his hand. It did look like coffee. I pushed my jaw forward a bit, squinted my eyes and said, "Well, I'll try just a sip."
That was the end. The ice cold brew slid across my tongue, trickled down my throat, and gave me a zing that all of the chocolate Zingers hadn't been able to do. I felt awake, ready to take a walk, ready to run even though it was over 100 outside, ready to wash dishes, clean house, fold laundry, chase after kids...yes, my brother corrupted me. But then, it is my fault that he's left handed, so there.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
And I thought 109 was hot
Another one of those days happened. Last night, Reagan woke up and the Georgianna woke up, so I brought them into the kitchen and we sat on the kitchen floor eating freshly made bread and butter. I didn't crawl into bed until almost 4:00am, and of course the kids woke up at their normal time: 7:30am. Needless to say, I was tired.
We topped the 4th of July temperature by 2 degrees today. Yup, 111. I think it was hot enough to fry an egg on the pavement. What I find particularly disturbing is that it merely feels hot not boiling, not unbearable, not sapping, just hot. The only clue to how hot it got was when I took the girls to the museum today. It's about 20 minutes from our house.
I turned the car on to "cool" it off for about 5 minutes before I loaded the girls. I was surprised that the car still felt really hot, so I ran back inside and grabbed a couple of ice cold water bottles and handed them back to them. Then I put on my sunglasses and proceeded to drive to the museum. Half way there, I asked the girls if it was cooling down in the back. They said no, it wasn't. I was mystified. I checked to make sure that the AC was on circulate and on high. I wasn't surprised that they didn't feel cool. I was sitting in the front and sweating. When we got to the museum, I actually drove around in search of shade. I figured a short walk would be better than a boiling hot car. It wasn't until much later, when we went food shopping with Tanner that I discovered that it was 111 degrees outside. Whew! What a scorcher.
The moon is bright and full where we are, so Tanner stopped at Village Foods. Yes, we still celebrate our lunaversary. It specializes in the extraordinary. He came out with this lovely box of chocolates. Eat your heart out Moonstruck. I have a new favorite.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
She's IN!
We are so excited. Kate was accepted into the charter school that we applied for. Whoop! We have been praying for quite a while about what school Kate should attend. This one has a small teacher to student ration, 15:1, and it offers language programs to kids as young as 3rd grade. It is going to be a big adjustment not having her at home all the time, but I am confident that this is the best thing for her. It will help her take advantage of all the natural intelligence that God has given her. Thank you to everyone who helped us ask the right questions.
Is this my LITTLE girl?
We went to the pool the other day, and I lost track of Kate. Slightly panicked, I picked up Georgie and started to scan the area. I like to keep my kids in eye sight 100% of the time. I'm not one of those casual moms who just let their kids loose at the pool. After about 30 seconds of heart racing searching, I realized that Kate was standing right in front of me with her back to me. I hadn't recognized her because I was searching for a "little" girl.
Little like Reggie. Now, that size is just about right, in my opinion. But apparently, Kate has grown quite a bit, and I just didn't realize it. Is this why she keeps asking me if she is a big girl, yet?
This is what happens when you try to take a pacifier away from a child too early. She switches to fingers. Sigh.
As you can tell, the girls love to take all of the cushions off of the couch and throw them in piles or put them in patterns and set up a cage. I am constantly picking the orange cushions off of the floor. Something I am going to miss when they get older.
Little like Reggie. Now, that size is just about right, in my opinion. But apparently, Kate has grown quite a bit, and I just didn't realize it. Is this why she keeps asking me if she is a big girl, yet?
This is what happens when you try to take a pacifier away from a child too early. She switches to fingers. Sigh.
As you can tell, the girls love to take all of the cushions off of the couch and throw them in piles or put them in patterns and set up a cage. I am constantly picking the orange cushions off of the floor. Something I am going to miss when they get older.Tuesday, July 7, 2009
July 4, 2009 Continued...
So, this is proof that Jonathan did indeed make it down here safely. We sat on the lawn in front of the museum and listened to the Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra play Sousa, Brahms,
Mozart and John Williams. I think the Sousa was a little challenging for them since a couple of the high C's were just too high for the trumpets to hit clearly. But then, I'm picky about stuff like that, and they played it a lot better than I ever could!
Kate was so excited when they finally started the fireworks. She turned to me and begged me to take pictures. I explained that pictures of fireworks don't turn out, but she had such a woebegone face that I just had to try. What mothers do for their children...
Now, Georgie is just cute. That's all I can say. She didn't get scared of the fireworks, and was a good girl for the entire show. She drank lots of milk, lots of water, and ate chips and goldfish crackers. The only down side of the evening was that we forgot to bring the stroller. We decided to walk back to the car instead of taking the shuttle and Jonathan had to carry Georgie the whole way since Tanner had all of the picnic gear, and I was running after Reagan. By the way, before the fireworks started, Reagan thought the glow necklaces were the fireworks. She thought the trip to the museum was well worth it even before the main event took place. When the fireworks started, she sat mesmerized and didn't once look around to make sure that we were still near her.
Yeah, I'm happy my bro is here. Sure missed him. Glad I don't have to miss him anymore.
Mozart and John Williams. I think the Sousa was a little challenging for them since a couple of the high C's were just too high for the trumpets to hit clearly. But then, I'm picky about stuff like that, and they played it a lot better than I ever could!
Kate was so excited when they finally started the fireworks. She turned to me and begged me to take pictures. I explained that pictures of fireworks don't turn out, but she had such a woebegone face that I just had to try. What mothers do for their children...
Now, Georgie is just cute. That's all I can say. She didn't get scared of the fireworks, and was a good girl for the entire show. She drank lots of milk, lots of water, and ate chips and goldfish crackers. The only down side of the evening was that we forgot to bring the stroller. We decided to walk back to the car instead of taking the shuttle and Jonathan had to carry Georgie the whole way since Tanner had all of the picnic gear, and I was running after Reagan. By the way, before the fireworks started, Reagan thought the glow necklaces were the fireworks. She thought the trip to the museum was well worth it even before the main event took place. When the fireworks started, she sat mesmerized and didn't once look around to make sure that we were still near her.
Yeah, I'm happy my bro is here. Sure missed him. Glad I don't have to miss him anymore.July 4, 2009
Texan Fourth of July is quite a bit more of a to-do than in Portland. The only other place that I've seen people celebrate Independence day with such vavoom was in Vancouver when we lived on the waterfront. And at people there took it as free license to get as drunk as possible and shoot fireworks at each other.
Our block turned into party central, but not the type that I expected considering the large number of college kids that live near us. People set up big awning and tents and held family gatherings. You could almost smell the ice tea and mint. Every real Texan has a huge barbecue made out of old oil drums that they stuff with charcoal and slow cook a beef brisket all day long. I really do mean all day long. The men get up at about 6:00am to start the fire, and no one eats until almost 7:00pm. There must have been over a hundred cars lining our narrow street, but there was no rowdiness or profligate partying. Instead it was a down home, southern celebration. Great-grandmas sat in rickety chairs sipping their ice teas a
nd lemonades while grandchildren found buckets and hoses and water for their entertainment.We spent a quiet afternoon since the guys were up all night working, but I rolled them out of bed at around 4:30 so that we could go to the George Bush Museum and Library. I wasn't sure what to expect, but I figured 3 adults could handle and protect 3 ki
ds if things got out of hand.
ds if things got out of hand.The day stretched into a long, sultry sunset...
Sunday, July 5, 2009
It's 11:00. The sun is down. The lights are on. Reagan is awake.
Since Reagan is awake, Mommy is awake. I am sitting in my rocking chair listening to her play. It's a rare occasion since she is usually drowned out by a crying baby or an overly optimistic older sister. Is her pretend play a deep revelation of her character? She is playing "momma and baby." Apparently multiple babies that are hungry but rather well behaved. They all seem to take turns crying. They also don't seem to wriggle around and flail their arms. It must be because they are large DUPLO-legos, pink, purple and white.
I read in a book that we shouldn't limit our girls by only giving them domestic-like toys, so I made sure that Reagan had legos. So, now she goes back and forth between building castles and playing babies. Aah...wait...now they have transformed into candles and lunch. What an active imagination.
I wish you could see her right now. She sits cross-legged in the shadow of the dining room table. Her back nestled against the leg of a chair. Her green dress spreads out around her and the legos are spilled around her just like a basket of brightly colored flowers. She stands up quickly. Her head cocked to one side. She gasps and peeks around the corner of the couch. "Momma," she whispers, "there is a tiger. I am scared."
....okay, I'm back...who wouldn't quit what they are doing to investigate the claims of a tiger? On the floor in Uncle Jonathan's room was a furry belt that he used for a costume as a Japanese warrior. The tiger. Raaaarrr! I am tired. I think I will send her to bed.
Since Reagan is awake, Mommy is awake. I am sitting in my rocking chair listening to her play. It's a rare occasion since she is usually drowned out by a crying baby or an overly optimistic older sister. Is her pretend play a deep revelation of her character? She is playing "momma and baby." Apparently multiple babies that are hungry but rather well behaved. They all seem to take turns crying. They also don't seem to wriggle around and flail their arms. It must be because they are large DUPLO-legos, pink, purple and white.
I read in a book that we shouldn't limit our girls by only giving them domestic-like toys, so I made sure that Reagan had legos. So, now she goes back and forth between building castles and playing babies. Aah...wait...now they have transformed into candles and lunch. What an active imagination.
I wish you could see her right now. She sits cross-legged in the shadow of the dining room table. Her back nestled against the leg of a chair. Her green dress spreads out around her and the legos are spilled around her just like a basket of brightly colored flowers. She stands up quickly. Her head cocked to one side. She gasps and peeks around the corner of the couch. "Momma," she whispers, "there is a tiger. I am scared."
....okay, I'm back...who wouldn't quit what they are doing to investigate the claims of a tiger? On the floor in Uncle Jonathan's room was a furry belt that he used for a costume as a Japanese warrior. The tiger. Raaaarrr! I am tired. I think I will send her to bed.
Church and buying a car
Tanner had to work last night, so we decided to go to the mid-morning service for church. Now, this is a service that we don't usually attend since we typically sing in the choir for the early service and late service. So we didn't know what to expect. I guess it was a little risky since it would be Jonathan's first time attending church with us, but I figured God could take care of all of that.
So, just like Jonathan's mouth dropped open when there was invocation at the fireworks, he stared in wide eyed amazement as our pastor began teaching us how to live via the Declaration of Independence. Some of you might think this is a little weird, but I don't think it is any stranger than a sermon around the writings of C.S. Lewis or Martin Luther. At the end of the service, Jonathan looked at me and said, "Wow, I don't think I've ever heard anything so...so...ordinary." I nodded. Yes, the Lord's burden is light.
On our way back from the fireworks last night, Reagan found a cell phone on the side of the road, so this morning the owner came to pick it up and gave us $30 for all of the bother. Reagan is one happy little girl. She can't wait to go buy a toy! I've thought about making her save some of it in her piggy bank, but I'm still thinking about how to convey the idea to a two year old.
We drove all the way to Houston today so that Jonathan could take a look at a car. It's a 97 silver Honda Civic. Apparently he was satisfied with all of its machination since he bought it and drove it home. So now we have two cars in our driveway which is barely designed to accommodate one.
So, just like Jonathan's mouth dropped open when there was invocation at the fireworks, he stared in wide eyed amazement as our pastor began teaching us how to live via the Declaration of Independence. Some of you might think this is a little weird, but I don't think it is any stranger than a sermon around the writings of C.S. Lewis or Martin Luther. At the end of the service, Jonathan looked at me and said, "Wow, I don't think I've ever heard anything so...so...ordinary." I nodded. Yes, the Lord's burden is light.
On our way back from the fireworks last night, Reagan found a cell phone on the side of the road, so this morning the owner came to pick it up and gave us $30 for all of the bother. Reagan is one happy little girl. She can't wait to go buy a toy! I've thought about making her save some of it in her piggy bank, but I'm still thinking about how to convey the idea to a two year old.
We drove all the way to Houston today so that Jonathan could take a look at a car. It's a 97 silver Honda Civic. Apparently he was satisfied with all of its machination since he bought it and drove it home. So now we have two cars in our driveway which is barely designed to accommodate one.
Was this the 4th of July?
We decided to go to the fireworks display at the George Bush Museum and Library. The deciding factor was closeness. Since the temperature got up to 109 degrees today, we wanted to go somewhere that had easy access to home. I really wish we could have biked there, but it was just too hot for the girls. Maybe next time.
We had to stop off at Target to buy a cooler (since we left ours in PDX), water and Gatorade. Then we turned around and went home because I forgot the ice and a bottle for Georgianna. Not too bad considering all of the other things we could have left. We parked at Reed Arena and took the shuttle to the museum. Jonathan forgot his cell phone in the bus so he sprinted after it...apparently he managed to catch up because he joined us about 45 minutes later cell phone in hand.
Now, there is a lot to write about, but I'll save that for tomorrow when I upload pictures. The story for tonight took place about 2 hours into our 4th of July celebration, right before the dimming of the lights and fireworks. Some dude comes up to the mic and makes all of the right noises about thank you for this and that. Then he invites this other guy up to the stage to give the invocation.
Now, some of you might not know what invocation means. Jonathan didn't. I did. Kind of smiled a small little smile when the man at the mic asked the gentlemen to please remove their hats and everyone please stand. I got the girls to face forward. Reagan wanted to dance and play, but I told her to be still. Jonathan was still a little confused. We'd already finished the anthem. I got the girls in order just in time to bow my head and show them how to fold their hands. Jonathan's mouth dropped as the man opened, "Oh, God, our Father in heaven..."
So, when was the last time you went to a publicly funded fireworks show and somebody prayed?
But that's not all. Jonathan's eyes almost popped out of his head when at the end of the invocation the majority of the crowd said, "Amen!"
I just love Texas.
We had to stop off at Target to buy a cooler (since we left ours in PDX), water and Gatorade. Then we turned around and went home because I forgot the ice and a bottle for Georgianna. Not too bad considering all of the other things we could have left. We parked at Reed Arena and took the shuttle to the museum. Jonathan forgot his cell phone in the bus so he sprinted after it...apparently he managed to catch up because he joined us about 45 minutes later cell phone in hand.
Now, there is a lot to write about, but I'll save that for tomorrow when I upload pictures. The story for tonight took place about 2 hours into our 4th of July celebration, right before the dimming of the lights and fireworks. Some dude comes up to the mic and makes all of the right noises about thank you for this and that. Then he invites this other guy up to the stage to give the invocation.
Now, some of you might not know what invocation means. Jonathan didn't. I did. Kind of smiled a small little smile when the man at the mic asked the gentlemen to please remove their hats and everyone please stand. I got the girls to face forward. Reagan wanted to dance and play, but I told her to be still. Jonathan was still a little confused. We'd already finished the anthem. I got the girls in order just in time to bow my head and show them how to fold their hands. Jonathan's mouth dropped as the man opened, "Oh, God, our Father in heaven..."
So, when was the last time you went to a publicly funded fireworks show and somebody prayed?
But that's not all. Jonathan's eyes almost popped out of his head when at the end of the invocation the majority of the crowd said, "Amen!"
I just love Texas.
Friday, July 3, 2009
S-S-S-S-Summer
Isn't it fun to lick your lips and taste the salty chlorine that has dried on your lips after you've toweled off at the pool? Though there isn't much to towel off when it is 102 degrees. I did think it was a little funny that when I finally got the girls out of the water into the shade Reagan started whimpering. She said she was freezing. She said it was too cold. Yeah, right, 102 and cold.
Tanner managed to convince Reagan to try the slide, and I managed to get her to jump into the water from the side of the pool. She loves floating around in her life jacket, and has managed to learn how to propel herself through the water pretty successfully. I still stay close by just in case she runs into trouble, but the last few times she has been pretty independent when it comes to swimming. As she stretches her legs out behind her she shouts, "I can fly! I can fly!" and she loves splashing "pixie dust" on everyone including Georgie.
She's lucky that Georgie thinks it is all good fun. George likes the shallow part of the pool, a mere two inches deep. She crawls around on all fours, occasionally dipping her nose to the water and coming up with an abrupt snort.
We leave when Georgie starts turning brown. I figured that would be a good way to judge how well the girls are holding up to the heat. When Georgie is done, then we are all done. Of course, it is bound to disappoint Katie, but I know that it keeps us safe. The girls are all turning that beautiful golden brown that my sisters have inherited. I'm glad that they didn't get my smoky green colored skin. They look gloriously healthy compared to the other lobster backed kids at the pool. Multi-culturalism has its positives.
It looks like our dryer is on its last legs. I spent 2 hours drying a single load of laundry. I'm wondering if I can find a good repair shop around here. Of course, I could also just buy a bag of concrete and erect my clothesline, but that just seems to be too much work for now. We haven't' done anything to the house for the last week. Just not enough time for Tanner to sleep. I suppose picking Jonathan up in Austin, readjusting rooms, touring an elementary school and staying cool might have something to do with our lack of progress.
On a final note...Georgie has two teeth now and is down to two nursings a day. Whoop!
Tanner managed to convince Reagan to try the slide, and I managed to get her to jump into the water from the side of the pool. She loves floating around in her life jacket, and has managed to learn how to propel herself through the water pretty successfully. I still stay close by just in case she runs into trouble, but the last few times she has been pretty independent when it comes to swimming. As she stretches her legs out behind her she shouts, "I can fly! I can fly!" and she loves splashing "pixie dust" on everyone including Georgie.
She's lucky that Georgie thinks it is all good fun. George likes the shallow part of the pool, a mere two inches deep. She crawls around on all fours, occasionally dipping her nose to the water and coming up with an abrupt snort.
We leave when Georgie starts turning brown. I figured that would be a good way to judge how well the girls are holding up to the heat. When Georgie is done, then we are all done. Of course, it is bound to disappoint Katie, but I know that it keeps us safe. The girls are all turning that beautiful golden brown that my sisters have inherited. I'm glad that they didn't get my smoky green colored skin. They look gloriously healthy compared to the other lobster backed kids at the pool. Multi-culturalism has its positives.
It looks like our dryer is on its last legs. I spent 2 hours drying a single load of laundry. I'm wondering if I can find a good repair shop around here. Of course, I could also just buy a bag of concrete and erect my clothesline, but that just seems to be too much work for now. We haven't' done anything to the house for the last week. Just not enough time for Tanner to sleep. I suppose picking Jonathan up in Austin, readjusting rooms, touring an elementary school and staying cool might have something to do with our lack of progress.
On a final note...Georgie has two teeth now and is down to two nursings a day. Whoop!
Georgie and the Roach
Sounds like the title to an art-deco film. Truthfully, it was more of a horror story than anything else. I let Georgianna crawl on the bedroom floor this morning as I started to get ready for the day. She excitedly gurgled and babbled her way over to the corner of the room and then became strangely quiet. I tugged on my pants quickly and went to go see what she was playing with. It was a strange, reddish object, rather oblong. I peered closer and screamed. It had legs. Tanner jumped out of bed.
"It's a roach!" I wailed.
"Pick her up!" he said.
"I can't! She was holding it!"
So, Tanner scooped Georgie up into his arms, and ran to the bathroom. I did my part by squirting soap onto her hands. After she was cleaned up, I took her from Tanner so that he could take care of the now deceased cockroach on the floor of our bedroom. He got a piece of paper and an old Ziploc sandwich bag. Shoveled the roach into its makeshift coffin and disposed of it in the outside trashcan. The ending scene was a shot of Mommy sitting on the edge of the bed with her feet tucked up underneath her, holding Georgie in her arms.
"It's a roach!" I wailed.
"Pick her up!" he said.
"I can't! She was holding it!"
So, Tanner scooped Georgie up into his arms, and ran to the bathroom. I did my part by squirting soap onto her hands. After she was cleaned up, I took her from Tanner so that he could take care of the now deceased cockroach on the floor of our bedroom. He got a piece of paper and an old Ziploc sandwich bag. Shoveled the roach into its makeshift coffin and disposed of it in the outside trashcan. The ending scene was a shot of Mommy sitting on the edge of the bed with her feet tucked up underneath her, holding Georgie in her arms.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Wow, today went by in a flash. I had an early start and then went over to a friends house so that the guys could get a little uninterrupted shut eye. When I came home at around 4:00, they were both stumbling around in the kitchen trying to figure out what to make for "breakfast". I smiled, shooed them away and got out the salmon fillets, red potatoes and watermelon. Made him a Chai Tea Latte. Then I sat down to try to figure out why my network wasn't working. got into an argument. Resolved it with a cappuccino. Sat down at the computer again, and as you can tell, I got it up and running, just a matter of an ISP thingy, a good idea from Tanner and a router. Lucky me. Managed to not burn dinner, but was too tired to do a sit down meal, so everyone just helped themselves.
Well, I figured after that example of feminine prowess I was entitled to a little unwind time, so I decided to watch an old Murder, She Wrote episode. Every mom out there knows that I didn't see the whole thing, and it took about 2 hours to watch it since the girls kept calling me here and there and needing me, but I did manage to watch it. I thought it was funny because Tanner decided to surf the Internet during that time, and when he came out of our room, he asked me how many of the episodes I had watched. When I told him that I was still on my first one, he just laughed. Okay, he said sorry and then laughed. Then he took me to Target and we found Tiger Woods Golfing, for our Wii, 50% off. Whoop!
Reagan has learned a new Texan phrase. When she gets hurt, I usually pick her up and ask her if she has an owie. Well, yesterday, she was just a little incensed at the question. She looked at me with that inimitable frown of hers and said, "No, Mommy! It's not an OWIE, it's a BRUISER!"
Well, I figured after that example of feminine prowess I was entitled to a little unwind time, so I decided to watch an old Murder, She Wrote episode. Every mom out there knows that I didn't see the whole thing, and it took about 2 hours to watch it since the girls kept calling me here and there and needing me, but I did manage to watch it. I thought it was funny because Tanner decided to surf the Internet during that time, and when he came out of our room, he asked me how many of the episodes I had watched. When I told him that I was still on my first one, he just laughed. Okay, he said sorry and then laughed. Then he took me to Target and we found Tiger Woods Golfing, for our Wii, 50% off. Whoop!
Reagan has learned a new Texan phrase. When she gets hurt, I usually pick her up and ask her if she has an owie. Well, yesterday, she was just a little incensed at the question. She looked at me with that inimitable frown of hers and said, "No, Mommy! It's not an OWIE, it's a BRUISER!"
Learning to love sleep
I've been wondering why I'm such a cranky mommy. I drag myself out of bed at 7:30, stumble around the room looking for my glasses so that I can make a cup of espresso before making breakfast for the kids. And, I wonder, why is waking up at 7:30 so hard? Other moms seem to do it as a matter of course. Hey, it's 7:30, let's get going. Or, they think that sleeping until 8:00 is SLEEPING IN! So, what's wrong with me?
And then, last night I had a deep revelation. I stayed up late trying to figure out why my Internet connection kept crashing. Feeling thoroughly exhausted and just a little bit discouraged, I closed up shop at around midnight and went to bed. A funny think happened...Georgie didn't wake up all night. My eyes popped open at 7:30, and, this is the weird part, I was wide awake! I pinched my arm. I didn't feel like I needed a cup of joe to keep my eyes opened. I didn't have the grab a couple of toothpicks to prop my eyes open feeling. I felt, well, kind of normal. I sat up and listened, wondering what could have woken me up. The house was silent. I got out of bed and checked on the girls who were all contentedly snoozing. Feeling a little surreal, I went to the kitchen, turned on the espresso machine out of habit and made a bottle for Georgie for when she woke up. I figured she would be ravenous.
That's when it hit me. All of my crankiness, tiredness, inability to function in the morning was due to...not sleeping. I guess waking up three times a night to nurse or, more recently, make a bottle was making me tired in the morning. Seven hours of solid sleep made me feel just great. I wonder if I should go running today?
And then, last night I had a deep revelation. I stayed up late trying to figure out why my Internet connection kept crashing. Feeling thoroughly exhausted and just a little bit discouraged, I closed up shop at around midnight and went to bed. A funny think happened...Georgie didn't wake up all night. My eyes popped open at 7:30, and, this is the weird part, I was wide awake! I pinched my arm. I didn't feel like I needed a cup of joe to keep my eyes opened. I didn't have the grab a couple of toothpicks to prop my eyes open feeling. I felt, well, kind of normal. I sat up and listened, wondering what could have woken me up. The house was silent. I got out of bed and checked on the girls who were all contentedly snoozing. Feeling a little surreal, I went to the kitchen, turned on the espresso machine out of habit and made a bottle for Georgie for when she woke up. I figured she would be ravenous.
That's when it hit me. All of my crankiness, tiredness, inability to function in the morning was due to...not sleeping. I guess waking up three times a night to nurse or, more recently, make a bottle was making me tired in the morning. Seven hours of solid sleep made me feel just great. I wonder if I should go running today?
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Welcome to Texas!
On the drive from the Austin airport, Jonathan remarked, "so, this is like Portland, just warmer." Yup. He was lucky to arrive when he did, at the tail end of a record breaking heat wave. The last two days have been more mild only in the low 90's and the humidity has been pretty bearable.
Last night, Jonathan took me to see Transformers. He knows that the love of my life is OptimusPrime, so around 9:00 we drove the 1 1/2 miles to the theater. When we got out of the car, I could feel Jonathan's skin relax in the warm air and the tropical breeze. We both gave a collective sigh of contentment as we strolled to the box office. Jonathan ordered 2 tickets. When the lady told him it would be "$10, please," he corrected her and said he wanted TWO tickets. She nodded and smiled and said, "right, $10, please." Jonathan stared at her in amazement. I quickly explained that he was from a different state where movie tickets were quite a bit more expensive. He was so surprised that as we stood at the concession stand to grab a cup of coffee, he just had to call his friends and gloat. $10 for the evening, full digital showing for 2 adults. I think he's realizing that dating can be cheap.
The only draw back to living here is that the mall is rather small. At least it has a Macy's and Hot Topic. I took him there today so that he could find shorts for work and some swimming trunks. Yes, we do a lot of swimming here. Then we toddled on over to Best Buy to buy a couple of electronic necessities and then home. So far, everything seems to be settling into place. His first night at Target went well, and we've introduced him to our favorite walks, our favorite fast food and our favorite stores. He's fair on the way of falling in love with Texas.
Last night, Jonathan took me to see Transformers. He knows that the love of my life is OptimusPrime, so around 9:00 we drove the 1 1/2 miles to the theater. When we got out of the car, I could feel Jonathan's skin relax in the warm air and the tropical breeze. We both gave a collective sigh of contentment as we strolled to the box office. Jonathan ordered 2 tickets. When the lady told him it would be "$10, please," he corrected her and said he wanted TWO tickets. She nodded and smiled and said, "right, $10, please." Jonathan stared at her in amazement. I quickly explained that he was from a different state where movie tickets were quite a bit more expensive. He was so surprised that as we stood at the concession stand to grab a cup of coffee, he just had to call his friends and gloat. $10 for the evening, full digital showing for 2 adults. I think he's realizing that dating can be cheap.
The only draw back to living here is that the mall is rather small. At least it has a Macy's and Hot Topic. I took him there today so that he could find shorts for work and some swimming trunks. Yes, we do a lot of swimming here. Then we toddled on over to Best Buy to buy a couple of electronic necessities and then home. So far, everything seems to be settling into place. His first night at Target went well, and we've introduced him to our favorite walks, our favorite fast food and our favorite stores. He's fair on the way of falling in love with Texas.
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