Memoirs of Motherhood

Trophy Mug

2009-11-02T14:04:00.001-08:00

Years ago when my husband and I were first married, we became friends with wonderful couples who already had children. At random visits to their homes I would inevitably see a large beverage jug sitting out. A few times I would catch the mother sipping iced water from this holder of liquids and I would stare at it with amazement.

Certainly I had seen a mug before in my life, but never one like this. It seemed to have a power to it all by itself. I was convinced, as I was not a lover or water intake previously, that if I had a jug like that, I WOULD drink more water :)

One day, I got up enough nerve to ask a friend of mine. The answer? The mug was given to her from the hospital she delivered her child in.

Well, that was a problem for me, because this little thurgood family wasn't planning on adding another thurgood to the family for a few years. But I wanted a MUG!

I searched dear friends. I searched at grocery stores, discount stores, and second hand stores for a mug to hold with pride....so that I could be a better drinker of water-of course!

My search was in vain. I could find nothing of the sort. So I did the best I could to try and remove the thought from my mind.

Fast forward to 2006. I SHOULD NOT complain, but for the sake of reliving it, lets just say I progress to the point of first stage labor in my final month of pregnancy. So I waddle around with water retention that would make an elephant look like a ANT and feel like all my insides are going to fall out.

On my way to the hospital I request a LARGE cup of juice and a nice juicy burger (don't judge ya'll) I knew they were going to make me STARVE...and heaven help me, if I didn't make it out alive at least I was going to savour my last meal :)

Fast forward to the delivery room....I was told I could suck on ICE CHIPS! (I was prepared for this) but really hoped they'd bring it in with that special mug all of my other mother-friends possessed in their homes.

Nope. Styrofoam.

My little Thurgood was born just after midnight and I could not have been happier. There was a lot of work involved in between, but you get the point.

As soon as the tyke was out and I was watching Apgar test etc. being performed I motioned to the hubs to grab my "back up drink" because I was THIRSTY!

I chugged that juice faster than a freshman frat boy at a party! I was parched! A nurse picked up on it and sent for water....

I was thankful I had my emergency supply of strawberry banana sobe, because whomever retrieved my water took forever.

I enjoyed my bonding time with Thurgood #3, and once the nurse returned I felt her journey was worth the wait.

In she walked holding the much anticipated:

TROPHY MUG!

I finally earned it! I got to have my very own and no one could take it from me. It was mine!

It is silly how much importance I've placed in this little mug. But to me, it is a symbol of achievement. It is a symbol of sacrifice and love.

My brother, who likes to drink water in large quantities, borrowed my special mug unannounced to me once....I never saw my trophy again.

There were threats on his life made, demands that he march in to the hospital and get me another one etc. But BRO didn't get the special importance it had with me. So, I marched in myself and asked for another :) I was willing to pay folks. I was willing. But a nice nurse saw the look of panic on my face and sent me home with a duplicate trophy mug.

I have earned a second trophy since that tragic incident and I don't mind compiling them. I have become a much better water drinker....thanks to MY trophy mug.

HIVE!

2009-11-02T13:29:00.000-08:00

Driving home one afternoon, I turn onto my street and notice what looks like an odd colored ball stuck in a tree on my property. Hesitant (because I have never seen a ball decorated quite like it). I pull up and examine it.

Answer: GINORMOUS wasp nest.
Solution: Kill, Kill, Kill it...but not me of course...assign the husband.

My darling friend Liz suggested I save it and send it with my son for show and tell. That idea took a while to sink in, but after a LOT of contemplation and failed attempts to contact professionals to take it down for free, we decided it would be pretty cool to send a carcased hive to show & tell!

And that's just what we did. we got online and researched the bald wasps that took up real estate in our tree and yours truly carefully sawed the little sucker out of the tree attempting to preserve it and the branch it was connected to.

Eventually we packaged the cozy little nook up and sealed it, with printed info... and dead wasps and sent the happy little preschooler to school!

Motivation!!!

2009-10-04T12:02:00.000-07:00

If anyone needs a little visual motivation to lose weight, as I sometimes do; Here is a website that can help with that.

Simply upload a frontal picture of yourself, adjust your height, weight and click "set", adjust meter at left to how much weight you desire to lose or gain. Once your picture is uploaded make sure the square only covers your face. it will scan and show the new you to the right. You can print or email it!

Pizza Pizza

2009-10-02T18:14:00.000-07:00

For family home evening this week we made home made pizza! , well not the crust. Dad got home too late for that. So here's what we cooked up!

Pizza Sauce (makes enough for 2 pizzas)
Ingredients

* 1 16 ounce can of sauce with
* 1 can (6 0z) tomato paste
* 6 oz Water; ( less for thicker!!!!!)

SEASONINGS

* 1/2 ts Garlic powder
* 2 ts Italian seasoning
* 2 ts Fennel seed
* 2 ts Onion powder
* 1.5 ts. Sugar

Instructions
Mix all the ingredients and allow to set for at least 30 minutes before use. The Fennel Seed is a key to the flavor!!

* I made modifications to this recipe based off of our results. Add whatever toppings sound delish to you. We used mozzarella, pepperoni and a mixture of italian sausage and ground beef.

Always wanted to...

2009-10-02T17:41:00.000-07:00

When I was younger they didn't have stores with kid-sized shopping carts, so when I had to make a run to my second home & knew it wasn't going to require filling my own cart-- I told the kids to load up their rides and roll out! The store we were heading to didn't have the special carts either, but that didn't stop us!

Strawberries and Cream Trifle

2009-10-02T17:30:00.000-07:00

Made a dessert for a recent Relief Society meeting and was pleased with the way it turned out. here you go:

Strawberries and cream trifle

Ingredients:

* 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
* 1-1/2 cups cold water
* 1 package (1 ounce) sugar-free instant vanilla pudding mix
* 1 carton (8 ounces) frozen reduced-fat whipped topping, thawed
* 1 prepared angel food cake (9-ounce round)
* 4 cups sliced fresh strawberries
* 3 whole fresh strawberries

Directions:
In a bowl, whisk the milk and water. Whisk in the pudding mix for 2 minutes. Let stand for 2 minutes or until soft-set; fold in the whipped topping. Cut cake into 1/2-in. cubes.
Spoon a third of the pudding mixture into a 4-qt. trifle or glass bowl. Top with half of the cake cubes and sliced strawberries. Repeat layers once. Top with remaining pudding mixture. Garnish with whole strawberries. Yield: 12 servings.

Just Couldn't Resist

2009-10-02T17:12:00.000-07:00

Lately, some of my children sightings have been pretty comical to me. The children have discovered "closets and cubby's". My daughter discovered that pouring shampoo in the tub makes it nearly impossible to get out of....slippery factor!

5 Things You May Not Know About Me

2009-09-30T08:51:00.000-07:00

1. My Mom still plucks my eye brows :) [Anytime she's here for a visit, it's mandatory. She's the best I've ever found]

2. I've never eaten an entire oreo (only the dark piece in cookies and cream ice cream)

3. 99.999% of the time my phone is on vibrate. I have what I like to call, "Ring Tone Anxiety" if I can hear my phone & I am not near it, I start to panic....i.e. changing a diaper..I begin to rush. If I'm near it, I answer [unless kids are screaming] If I'm not, its a nice surprise!

4. I still roller skate (not roller blade)

5. I owe $10 in library fines!!! [don't judge me! I can be a bit overzealous when I go to the library. I find all these books, check them out with the intention of reading them, and usually bring them back having read ONE! This last time I went on vacation and forgot to return them...oops!

Green Organization

2009-09-30T08:34:00.000-07:00

Stumbled upon these organization ideas and wanted to share. Sparks great ideas for recycling in these "tough economic times" *Hubby and I joke about saying this for everything... i.e. Mr.Thurgood: Man, I'm really tired today! Me: It's because of these tough economic times.

Restroom Refugee

2009-09-21T18:02:00.000-07:00

We mothers know all too well what emotions a simple bathroom break can bring out in our children. I seem to collect quite an audience with me 3 year old, 20 months old, and 3 lb dog, Emma.

I often feel as though I'm an academy award winning actress with the audience in the palm of my hand when I suddenly disappear to take care of business. Inevitably feet patter, voices call for me and the hide and seek game is over, as I am stranded and my audience of three occupy themselves in the bathroom I am in like a game of sardines!

Tonight I have foundrefuge. You see, Daddy is home and I slipped away not really thinking about it. As usual, my son knocks on the door and attempts to enter. The door isn't locked, but a little jammed :) He asked me what I was doing and I responded. He told me he wanted to come in (not sure what the fascination is) and I reminded him that he doesn't like it when his sister enters the bathroom when he's there. I then try to tune him out and he goes away. Cue the second child....slipping toy bracelets under the door (or attempting to), "here u go mommy". The silence worked last time and Sargent Daddy picks up on my peace attempt, so he scoops the wee laddy up and away. Not a minute later....."scratch, scratch, scratch" you guessed it! The dog....REALLY! Ignorance is bliss :)

It worked Daddy has the outside perimeter and I am enjoying a room all to myself :) I have long since finished what I set out to accomplish, but I can't help staying a little bit longer. So here I am a refugee in my own restroom, blogging about it. Yes, I did take the laptop in with me (I'm a Multi-tasker), and yes I am blogging in el bano. And I like it. :) Mr. Thurgood just asked if I was still alive..I laughed. So I guess that means my time is up. Until next time my dear friends and mothers....find solace and peace in your porcelain placed palace :)

Tithes

2009-09-17T09:07:00.000-07:00

My son has begun asking for toys/things. So we felt it was a good time for him to start making his own money. He has done some work for Uncle and the E's (a neighbor of ours). With his money he chose to purchase a toy motorcycle and gum.

For one of the Family Home Evening Lessons, Dad taught about paying tithing. He asked my son, "who gives us everything we have?" My son quickly responded, "Sister E!" (our neighbor) Although Daddy was the mature parent, I busted up laughing. I couldn't stop. It was so cute we just had to share it.

C.D.O. at its Best!

2009-07-08T13:08:00.001-07:00

You've heard of those people that are Obsessive Compulsive! Some would argue that I am one of those. I simply tell them I am NOT O.C.D. , I am C.D.O. because that is "Obsessive Compulsive Disorder" alphabetized!

Yes, it is that bad. But I enjoy the simplicity of organization. I snapped a few of my accomplishments (pictured below). I continue to try and find new/better ways to organize my house to fit my needs.

Enjoy making fun of me. I do laugh at myself from time to time (the rest of the time I pat myself on the back :))
Short Sleeves on top shelf, long sleeves/skirts/pants on bottom. Separated by color

I heart drawer dividers! They are in all of our clothing drawers :)

The linen closet...one of my favorite places to organize because it was my biggest headache before. Top Shelf: Mismatched pillowcases, linen spray, and hand towels, Second Shelf: Bedding (fitted sheet, flat sheet, and pillowcase) are folded and tucked into the matching pillowcase. Third shelf: towels rolled, so much easier to SHOVE IN THERE! Third Shelf: storage drawers separated for medical supplies, child care items, over the counter medication, and external & prescription meds. Fourth Shelf: (not pictures) extra pillows and blankets.

4th of July Hoo-rah!

2009-07-08T11:47:00.000-07:00

My son is such great kitchen help (at times). We whipped up a few things over the holiday weekend, and I'm in a sharing mood!

Hawaiian Sweet Bread Rolls (not sweet, but great with butter)

INGREDIENTS

7 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup instant mashed potato flakes
2/3 cup sugar
2 (.25 ounce) packages active dry yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1 cup milk
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup pineapple juice
3 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS

In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups flour, potato flakes, sugar, yeast, salt and ginger. In a small saucepan, heat the milk, water, butter and pineapple juice to 120 degrees F-130 degrees F. Add to dry ingredients; beat just until moistened. Add eggs; beat until smooth. Beat in vanilla. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.
Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1-1/4 hours.
Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; divide into thirds. Shape each into a ball. Place in three greased 9-in. round baking pans. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 45 minutes.

Bake at 375 degrees F for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Cover loosely with foil if top browns too quickly. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool.

Patriotic Trifle

Pretzel Sparklers

Sonish

2009-06-29T08:46:00.000-07:00

My son's version of eating a hot dog :)

Recently, I've also enjoyed his version of the English Language...

English Sonish
Waffle "Wamples"
Sleeping Beauty "Sleeping Duty Duty"
Disgusting "Dis-crust-ing"
Tears "My 'cries' come out when I close my eyes"
Dessert "Bizzert'
The Sun came out "I waked up the sun for you"
Cape "Gape"
"Dad, let's play Ring the Ghack" (actual game from Dr. Suess Book)
Twelve (12) "Twelven"
Frisbee "Fris-a-pea"

Then we dip, we dip, we dip

2009-06-24T18:06:00.001-07:00

I couldn't resist!

My daughter loves this fruit dip I make. So I snapped a picture and thought I'd share the recipe. Bon Apetit!

Fruit Dip (s0 easy its a sin!)
16 oz. Strawberry low-fat Yogurt
1 Small container of Cool-Whip

Mix & enjoy or chill and serve with cut fruit!

Organized & Accessorized

2009-06-24T17:50:00.000-07:00

Now that my daughters hair is grown a bit longer, I bought more hair doodie-dads for her. This prompted me to "organize" her hair "things" and off I went. I used my old nuts, bolts, and screws holder (found in the hardware areas of most stores) and placed them by color.

After completion, I went to the store to purchase a larger one for my jewelry, as the one I was previously using was a bit small.

Viola! end result. Nice neat packages that are easy to transport and easy to find what I am looking for. Both compartments were less than $10 total {craft areas sell a similar concept in storage, but are more expensive}
In case anyone wonders the method to my madness here: I placed earrings and rings in the first row, bracelets in the second, necklaces third, and JUMBO necklaces in the back (all according to color)

"Mother's" Day

2009-06-12T10:13:00.001-07:00

It should come as no surprise that I LOVE GETTING MAIL!!! Of course not bills, but letters, cards, and especially packages. It was well known in my house< growing up, that I committed to memory the sound of our local postal workers vehicle. Because of this I would know when the mail arrived. There was something about the anticipation of walking to the mailbox and prying open that federal door to see if a "little goody" awaited me. Ironically, I don't quite get the same satisfaction from email. Although I always enjoy receiving a personal one.

Now that I am older and home all day, I have also memorized the Fed Ex and UPS truck (I know right? I need another hobby). About a month ago I received a visit from one of these trucks! I was thrilled and surprised in regards to the unexpected visit. Lo and behold, a PACKAGE for me! YES!

I opened the wonderful piece of parcel and revealed the lovely arrangement photographed above. From Michael & my mother for Mother's Day. I loved everything about it. But it got me thinking...

For the last several years my mother has sent me Mother's Day presents. I love gifts, so that is not my complaint, but I kinda feel guilty that MY mother is sending ME Mother's Day presents!

Furthermore, these last couple of years I have felt Mother's Day is a bit impersonal: the 24hours that we the people tribute to the Mother's in our lives. I guess its something about everyone doing it at the same time that doesn't make it as meaningful to me. Which is weird, because I don't feel that way about Christmas, Thanksgiving or Easter! Anyway, it may simply be that my epiphany emerges as I have become a mother myself.

In no way would I ever recommend we not pay tribute to our mothers on Mother's Day. As a matter of fact every Mother's Day, my poor husband has to hear me torte, "Every day should be Mother's Day". I can only imagine what he's thinking.

Along with my Mother's Day controversy I began examining why our parents call US on our birthdays (I'm just taking the holiday's by storm!). If you think about it, good ol' Mom and Dad are the reason we HAVE a BIRTH day. And from that special day they have sacrificed to raise us and give us the best within their powers. What do we need to celebrate? That they let us LIVE! Surely none of us is perfect--so I can only envision their birthday wishes to mean, "Happy Birthday little darling, you're so lucky you made it another day." All joking aside for a moment, I feel the ones that need to be celebrated are our parents.

And that is just what I did. This past birthday of mine, I called my mother and father. I shared my feelings of gratitude for selfless sacrifice and the blessings I feel they have been in my life. etc. etc. My birthday meant I was one year older and wiser too, but I would not deny that was the case because of the family I had in my life.

Everyone's situation is different. Some may not have had one or both parents as active members within their upbringing, but hopefully there is someone in our lives that we could look to (even if it was a bad example you've worked hard not to repeat) that have helped shape us into who we are as individuals.

May I suggest that we take a step back on our next birthday (and the many more to come), take a moment to contact the people that brought you into this world and/or made it possible for you to continue to learn and grow--and tell them how much they mean to you...how grateful you are for them. That my dear friends, is a much more personal "Mother's Day".

Free Free Free

2009-04-28T14:14:00.001-07:00

Since I committed to following a budget, I have to admit it's been kinda fun to find some creative ways to have free fun.

My mother always told me I could take a pile of junk & make something neat out of it (THANKS MOM!). **She said it much nicer than that

So after we took the swing set items out of their massive boxes I saved them for future projects.

If anyone remembers my kite experience, you know this could get interesting.

Today, I took one of the larger boxes and constructed this tunnel. I quickly ran & grabbed the camera before it fell apart!

Swing Set Satisfaction

2009-04-28T13:48:00.000-07:00

As I am sure you know by now, I don't have patience for craft-like things. This includes reading instructions.

For my son and daughter's birthdays this year we combined all the money they received from loved ones (THANK YOU!) and purchased this awesome swingset I won't have to refinish each year.

So when it arrived via big big truck, I skipped out to meet the truck driver. And as required; had my brother help me carry the massive thing in the back yard. I warned Mr Thurgood and Uncle ahead of time that they would have to assemble it together--if I had picture proof of some of the items I've tried to assemble you would know why.

So there the swing set sat in a box in our backyard and I just stared at it. It was then that I decided to have my brother help me move it to where it would actually stand for the duration of it's life. He complied.

Now I stood looking at it all cramped up in its box where it would eventually be able to stretch its wings. I then looked at the time (approx 11:20) and did the math in my head (shocker, I know). Mr. Thurgood would be home @ 6PM that night. Good gracious that was a long time for the playset to just sit there.

Yes, you guessed it. I sent my son (the one that can guilt trip uncle the best) to ask my brother to put up the swing set with me. He complied again :) I was elated!

Now you must know that Uncle's patience for assembling things is similar to mine (must be on my Dads side of the family. Dad?) So picture us on one of the hottest days of the week....outside, READING instructions and actually trying to follow them!

Its was quite the comical experience. We know that if we were ever on a reality TV team, we would be America's favorite!

Our little jabs at one another. Our jokes...laughter, frustration, arguments about which piece the instructions were refering to, and the victory dances we performed for whomever was right, was truly a sight to see!

The highlight of the assembly was the point at which Uncle suggested that we just throw out a piece that just wasn't fitting right! I envisioned my children trying to swing and the whole set falling down on them.....so that didn't last long.

But my dear friends 5 HOT SUNNY HOURS LATER we finished!

Earth Day: Garden in a Glove

2009-04-28T12:54:00.000-07:00

For Earth Day we made Garden in a Glove

With a plastic food-handling glove, we placed wet cotton balls in the fingers and thumb of a glove. Then placed one seed in each section. We tied the end to ensure the seeds didn't become lunch and set them out to soak up sun & heat. Within a few days the little guys started budding....if I could keep them alive, we would have planted them. .....may they rest in peace!

FREEZER frenzy!

2009-04-28T12:41:00.001-07:00

Thanks to my friend Stephanie, lunchtime pasta requests are made easier!

I always seem to have leftover pasta from dinner. It usually sits inside the fridge until it goes bad.
Now I place my leftovers in a muffin tin and place it in the freezer. Once frozen I take it out and place it on the counter for about 10+ minutes (just enough to thaw a little).

I turn it upside down and slap the bottom of the tin and TA DA!

Almost instant pasta for my little ones lunch!

REHEAT
THROW SAUCE ON IT
& SERVE!

This has actually inspired me to plan breakfast meals for each day of the month. So I'll only repeat those meals once every month (excluding weekends).

I came up with this idea as I saw one of my neighbors make a large batch of pancakes and freeze the remaining items for later!

Since I was fortunate to take these ideas home & better my meals I'll share the Monday-Friday breakfast meals that will be whipped up or reheated in our household! (subject to change as I find awesome breakfast additions)
** Note: only certain items will be frozen :)

Bon Apetit!

Eggs & Bacon
Swedish Rice
Pancakes
Toast & Fruit
Bagel & Smoothie
Scones
Oatmeal
Waffles (or as call them, "Wamples") with homemade syrup
Fruit Salad
Raspberry Turnovers
Omelet
Peaches & Whip Cream (to resemble a sunny side egg)
Quiche
Bacon, Egg, & Cheese Bagel
Muffins
Eggs and hash browns
Cinnamon Rolls
French Toast
Breakfast Casserole
Yogurt & Fruit

How Do You Rate As a 1930"s Wife??

2009-04-17T13:54:00.000-07:00

Thank you something marvelous for posting this awesome quiz!

It peaked my interest and OF COURSE I took it.

Side note: I find it interesting that some of the point values equate the importance of "Being able to carry on an interesting conversation as being equal in points to squeezing the toothpaste at the top!" :) Makes my giggle and shake my head

I'll babble blog some time later about adapting the positive aspects of the early 1900's into my life :)

But for now, check this out:

A wife rating scale from the 1930s:

Apparently, the full scale had 50 merits and 50 demerits of differing value which were subtracted from each other to give the final score.

As a 1930s wife, I am
Very Superior

Take the test!

"This test represents the composite opinions of 600 husbands who were asked to list the cheif merits and demerits of their wives. They talked frankly. I have summarized the most frequently voiced falws and virtues and have weighted those items which, in my judgement as a psychologist and a physician, are especially important in marriage. I commend this test to the attention of all intelligent women who aspire to make their marriages both permanent and happy. Young women contemplating matrimony might very profitably use this test as a practical guide." --Dr. George W. Crane

I have to scratch my head as to why Dr. Crane felt "wearing red nail polish" or "eating onions, radishes, or garlic before a date or going to bed" Seemed to be such a naughty gesture in marriage! Oh the disgrace :)

I had my husband take the test and died with some of his questions! He was off the charts with his test.....I doubt he would be called World's Best Husband (like he is today) back in the 1930's..pretty sure the men folk would've pulled him off to the side--telling him he'd better stop doing so much around the house before his wife expects it!

Just a little curious as to how "Compares wive unfavorably with his mother or other wives" is only 5 demerits! That's grounds for automatic FAILURE!

At the same time, "Gives wife real movie kisses not dutiful "peck" on the cheek." Should be far more than 1 merit in my opinion.

138.5

As a 1930s husband, I am
Very Superior

Take the test!

Rest Assured Restroom Experience....

2009-04-16T15:29:00.000-07:00

Its obvious by now that I worry like a schizophrenic. So its no wonder as we were ALMOST finished grocery shopping my son starts doing the pee pee dance. The faster the dance, the less time I have to prepare!

I quickly start talking to him, trying to distract him as I bee-line my way to the nearest restroom....AND?

Closed for maintenance and cleaning! My mother & husband can attest that this particular grocery store is ALWAYS cleaning their bathrooms at the worst possible time!

I used the only other option I had left: the men's room.

My darling freshly 3 year old hopped out of the cart and in a loud voice (standing next to the opening of the restroom) I announced to him, "Hurry and use the potty and if ANYONE touches you--yell for mommy & I will help you!"

After he was out of site I felt like saying, "if you even think about touching my kid I'm gonna snap you in half!"

My adrenaline was pumping overtime and I was ready to go....

Through my deafening heartbeat I could detect that my son was alone, and sensed relief pouring over me. But I wish I could have seen what I looked like to the male passerby's with an aura that must have screamed, "Next bathroom, buddy!"

It was a successful public bathroom trip for my son, and frankly I was exhausted. So, I can rest for now, that is, until the next worse case scenario enters my mind!

Code Adam

2009-04-13T19:21:00.000-07:00

Back in my college days I worked at a local retail store. We were trained to search for a missing child matching the description when,"Code Adam" was paged over the intercom.

The announcement over the intercom always sent my heart racing, and I immediately stopped what I was doing to search for the missing child.

My heart raced more rapidly then in previous years this past weekend as a quick run into a store with my 3 year old turned into a search and rescue. The run into the store was supposed to be quick. Because of this I decided for one of the first times, NOT to place my son in a shopping cart. Mistake #1 for me. I had the little wanderer with me as I approached the checkstand. Another sales clerk flagged me over to their register so that I would not have to stand in line and poof...the tiny toddler was gone.

I called for him and looked in the surrounding area, but nada! So of course I panic..it literally was seconds. I run outside to see if I can see anyone in the parking lot with my child...nothing. So the associate calls for a "Code Adam".

Code Adam is actually an internationally-recognized missing child program. Started by the store I worked for in college . Its named after John Walsh's (Americas Most Wanted) late son.

Companies that do implement the program generally place a Code Adam decal at the front of the business. Employees at these businesses are trained to do the following six steps according to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children:

If a visitor reports a child is missing, a detailed description of the child and what he or she is wearing is obtained. Additionally, all exterior access to the building is locked and monitored; anyone approaching a door is turned away.
The employee goes to the nearest in-house telephone and pages Code Adam, describing the child’s physical features and clothing. As designated employees monitor front entrances, other employees begin looking for the child.
If the child is not found within 10 minutes, law enforcement is called.
If the child is found and appears to have been lost and unharmed, the child is reunited with the searching family member.
If the child is found accompanied by someone other than a parent or legal guardian, reasonable efforts to delay their departure will be used without putting the child, staff, or visitors at risk. Law enforcement will be notified and given details about the person accompanying the child.
The Code Adam page will be canceled after the child is found or law enforcement arrives.

I was asked by the sales associate to describe what my son looked like. DUH! I was NOT prepared for this question as my mind was in a state of shock. I listed off his clothes and the color of his skin. The associate asked me to wait by the front door. Which makes sense, but didn't make me feel as though I was doing all that I could to find my baby!

I was lucky...the little turd headed back to the toy area and was found by one of the associates who gathered together to find him.

I tried not to scare him once we finished our business and left, but explained as best I could (without bursting into tears) how sad I get when I don't know where he is etc. etc.

I learned a ton from this experience:

a. my children will remain in shopping carts until their 30 yrs. old
b. I will do better at discussing the responsibility that comes with the freedom of walking and not sitting in a cart (age 31+)
c. I failed to mention how old my child was. or the fact that he had a painted bunny face on. I didn't mention eye color, his name, or any permanent information about him that a perpetrator could not disguise quickly.

I have a Child ID Card for each member of my family, but it is not enough. I am going to write down a list of identifying questions that I can answer information about and keep a wallet-sized version with me. I was lucky this time, but will take measures to prepare myself even more.

Let the Memmy Awards Begin...

2009-04-03T17:09:00.000-07:00

During my daily mommy routine I often come across a product that is WONDERFUL and think to myself "life would not be the same without ____."

It is from this I have been inspired to start my own "Memmy" Awards (Mother's Emmy's). Basically, I'd like us to recognize excellent products that make mothering just a tiny bit easier--something you think you wouldn't want to travel through the journey of motherhood without.

So to start out this segments "Memmy Award" I'd definitely nominate the Baby Bjorn Bib. Thanks to my darling friend Hannah's advice I purchased one of these bad boys and haven't looked back since.
The material with which it is made from makes for a rinse-off and go clean-up. And it catches my little picasos droppings from the hole in her chin :). Mine has actually made it through two children. I've tried the other products with plastic etc. and nothing is as easy as the Baby Bjorn Bib. Thus the reason I am nominating this item.

I'd LOVE to hear from fellow caregivers out there. Nominate product(s) that have been awesome for you. They're all winners of the Memmy Award!

Construction Birthday Party

2009-03-28T19:57:00.000-07:00

My son turned 3 years old. So, after his second birthday last year, I began planning this:

The real challenge will come when the lil' guy gets to choose his theme....until then, I'm having fun!
One of my favorite things about decorating this party was the "steam" coming from the Sprinkler/electrical box on the front lawn.The little workers took home hard hats, and work belts with "tool stickers", trail mix, granola bar, timecard, and toy tools.Blocks were just one of the stations they could choose to use their construction skills onA leveler was a great centerpeice and balloon weight. Grammy & Tati bought the birthday boy a truck that you could build...it didn't last on the table very long. Blue prints were great table cloths and wall decor!

birthday continued....

2009-03-28T19:55:00.000-07:00

I asked Mr. Thurgood to make a wrecking ball for the kids. The kids seemed to enjoy it.

I have yet to produce a traditional cake for my kids birthdays. This year...dirt cake...worms included.

A toolbox was perfect for fruits and veggies. Parents received sub sandwiches as well as bottled juice and chips. Children had brown paper sacks for their lunch breaks with a PB&J sandwich, juice box, gogurt, and fruit snacks.

Kids can be mighty creative with a tire. We also had a small bounce house as well as a wheel barrel with packaging peanuts for the kids to dig in.

birthday continued again....

2009-03-28T19:54:00.000-07:00

Styrafoam and golf tees made a great pretend hammering station.

And black and decker worked for other hardware needs.
Invites were time cards. The Envelopes were adorned with tire treads.

Classroom Treats

2009-03-28T18:32:00.000-07:00

My son is attending a mini preschool class one day a week for a couple of hours! With his birthday a day later, it was the perfect time to celebrate with his classmates. I began thinking of things I could send or make for the special celebration but I was stumped. I searched online only to become paranoid due to food allergies etc.

A note was sent home with instructions, but nothing specified restrictions, so I decided to send a few items. I ended up making "Stick-wiches" thanks to an idea found on familyfun.com , and accompanied that with capri suns & a granola bar!

I thought the little sandwiches were so cute I wanted to share it with you.

Kite Bummer

2009-03-23T10:17:00.001-07:00

The weather started to perk up the week Mr. Thurgood was gone, so while the kids and I were outside I decided to "make" a kite for us to fly.

I am that person that doesn't really enjoy putting things together while reading instructions, or doing crafts i.e. sewing etc. I feel like it takes too much time & I simply want it to be done.

So I scrounged up what materials I thought would work best and put my magic fingers to work.

The result. a duct tape pile of junk! the only thing that was flying were words of what a brainiac idea it was for me to waste time trying to do it!

The Mom Song

2009-03-14T11:24:00.000-07:00

As my single-mother week drew to a close, I received this video via email from my old roommate Becca (thanks girl, just what I needed).

To All Mothers...I hope you enjoy it as much as I do :)

Daddy Time

2009-03-10T21:06:00.000-07:00

Is it apparent I am on a, "We Need Daddy" kick? My mom sent me this commercial today, and I love it. Wanted to share it with you. Because you know how passionate I am about fathers being "involved".

Side Note

2009-03-10T20:03:00.000-07:00

I forgot to mention; and frankly just plain forgot...the piece of humble pie my son served me last night at the end of my chaotic day. Frazzled and ready for bed, I asked him what story he wanted me to read him. He chose, "Love You Forever." My mouth suddenly became dry as I had a mental picture of Momzilla...aka me.

So I choked through the story as I learned a good lesson about what really matters most. And hoped that at the end of the day, no matter how many ugly-mad-mom-faces I make at the kiddos, they know I will always love them.

The Prayer of the Alone Mother...

2009-03-10T08:58:00.000-07:00

You know those days where you say so many prayers to the Lord above, you think you must be the most religious person on earth...for the day at least? Yesterday was just one of those days.

You see, when Mr. Thurgood leaves town for his week long business trips (and no ladies, he's not supporting another family on the side...he's seen my karate chop moves & fears for his life) it is usually tantamount to a nervous breakdown.

I always wished I was one of those women who was like, "Oh, I didn't even notice you were gone!" but I'm not. I'm the one that is handing him the crying child as he walks through the door...grabbing the keys and going to WAL-MART just to get away...sad, I guess.

I am not ashamed to admit, though, that the man my children call Dad is an involved father in their lives. This is for many reasons, but most importantly because its what I feel my children need. No bad can come from this. As a matter of fact, I am trying ot think of a time when I've heard friends or neighbors growing up complain, "Man, I am so tired of my dad hanging out with me, taking me to do things with him, and finding common interests. I wish he would just ignore me like my other friends dad does so I can search for love in all the wrong places, perhaps join a gang, or start doing drugs." (Can you feel my inner drama queen coming out today?)

Anyway, so with Mr. Thurgood out of town, the children begin their roles of "children during a full moon" they've gotten it down to an art now and would rival any of the up and coming celebrties for best actor/actress.

Those of you who are left for hours, days, or (heaven help you) even weeks etc. husbandless know that when their gone the worst usually happens. Through hours of whinning, crying, accidents, vomitting, threats, timeouts, I found myself constantly praying, "Heavenly Father, HELP ME to have the strength to make it through this day"....deep breath.

So far, this has been my saving grace because we have had zero casualities! Last night the Lord sent my brother as an answer to my prayers. I must've passed out on the bed from sheer emotional exhaustion when I heard the garage door open and soon thereafter close. My first half-comotose thought was, "did I just sleep the week away? Is my husband finally home?" but then I jumped out of bed and looked out the window to see my HERO pulling bags of groceries out of his car! I quickly ran downstairs to move my car to one side of the garage (I tend to hog the garage, like the bed, when my hubby leaves town). Had I not been so delirious, I would have cried because I hadn't gone shopping this week and was starting to cook up some MIGHTY creative creations for the kids for meals :) I quickly started helping my brother unload the groceries, hoping I wouldn't really wake up from a dream, when I said to him, "Thank you SO much, I could kiss you right now." And the moment of truth that separated my dreamy state from reality...his angelic response, "Don't touch me." I was in heaven.

Somehow knowing that my brother was there to help, feed the needy, and listen to the poor (I started talking his ear off--so grateful to be conversing with an adult) made me a little more vigorous about getting up to face yet another day without Daddy.

So call me a wuss. I freely admit that I depend on my husband to be an active role in my children's lives. To come home, eat dinner with us, and play with the kids for an hour or two until we put them to bed together. Then enjoy our quite time etc. This somehow seems to work well for my family. And it sure produces a better variety in conversation with my Heavenly Father. :)

Wisdom of My 2 Year Old

2009-02-26T13:12:00.001-08:00

This morning has been one of those days where you'd secretly like others to think are "typical" days in your household. Kissed the husband as he left for work, individual quality time with both the kids--full of giggling and kisses, and the sky showed promise of producing sun.

I had just sat the kids down for lunch and was heading upstairs with a load of laundry (I feel so domestic just typing this) when my son stopped me in my journey.

Makai: "Mama"
Me: "Yes" ( I stopped, turned and looked at him) It'd appear as though I was an EXCELLENT listener, but really I just didn't want to have to come back downstairs if he'd asked for an out of reach item in the kitchen.

Makai: "Jesus is the Bread of Life."
Me: (HUGE SMILE) Yes He is.

My thoughts: "Wow! Your nursery leaders are good!

All joking aside, these little sponge-like pint sized human beings that live in the our household are actually soaking up some good stuff. Moments like this make all the prepared FHE's, scripture study's and answers to the question, "Why?" for the millionth time worth it!

As we all know, tomorrow is another day. So, I wouldn't be surprised if I blog about the husband rushing out to work, one kid waking up screaming while the other is blowing chunks. Meanwhile I count out a nutritious portion of goldfish crackers and chocolate milk for lunch. Door bell rings? No, I wasn't doing laundry, but I'd sure be shoving it in the nearest closet so the poor unsuspecting visitor won't see. :) And to add to the probable scenario my son would interrupt me in front of company to tell me the dog pooped on the floor and my daughters taste-testing it at the moment.

This hasn't happened before, but somehow with the day I've had today, I could see it in my future :) Until then, I'm enjoying serenity now.

Mad Gab Madness

2008-11-18T20:38:00.000-08:00

If you've ever played the game "Mad Gab" you'll know how fun and slightly perplexing it can be.

The game takes a phrase like, "my kojak sun" and players have to guess the common name or phrase. For the example above the answer is: Michael Jackson.

I am convinced this game was made by a mother of a talking toddler. Today I found myself waiting for the game buzzer as I repeatedly asked my son to repeat what he was saying so that I could decode his message.

It sounded like he was saying:

"Arundel Basil Width Caddy"

You can imagine the blank stare on my face, until I figured out his completely random statement. The answer to our Mad Gab moment Trivia was:

"I Run The Bases With Daddy!"

Oh, he was reminding me that he had the opportunity to run the bases, after the game, on the Baysox field in Maryland when we were visiting my mother.

I know with all the practice I am getting, someday I will be a Mad Gab Champion!

Sanitary Insanity: The Evolution of Parental Precautions

2008-11-11T12:06:00.001-08:00

It occurred to me the other day that I have become a little lax in my "sanitary insanity". Yes, as most first time parents I was found disinfecting my baby room, washing the linens and alphabetizing the over the counter medication a sick infant might need before the little tyke was born:) but lately I can't find that lady anywhere!?!

I am pretty sure I was extreme in my sanitation and preparation (as I am in most things), so I am a little appalled at myself when I catch myself blankly staring at my daughter as she nibbles on my sons SHOE!

Rewind two and a half years ago and you would have found a much different situation. I recall changing my sons diaper after it was mildly wet...and now? I am patting my poor daughters soggy diaper to gauge how much longer I can wait before she needs to be changed? Have I grossed you out yet? If I have I am guessing you are a parent of one...I'm hoping that those of you with more than one child are nodding your heads and smiling.

So what happens in between child one and child two? I have been perplexed by this.

Is it the realization that my son didn't die when he sucked on a shopping cart handle bar (I'm cringing as we speak) or was it that blaming some unknown child 8 pews back in church for coughing and sneezing during church meeting didn't mean my son recovered from his cold any faster? I really don't know.

What I do know is that I like the calm expression on my face when something happens that would have sent my arms flailing and my eyes bulging. Does one become more lax with the number of children they have? If I were to have 1,2, maybe even 3 more would I become a champion mom on a fear factor show?

Regardless, I am enjoying that I am a little more laid back about the germs. Its increased my life span about two years, which I could quite possibly lose again once my children are teenagers.

Until then, I'd love to hear from you. How have your parental precautions evolved? Examples are great....like: I used to_____ but now I ______.

Let out your hair & let the confessions roll ladies!

Aunt Anticipation

2008-11-09T21:16:00.000-08:00

Last night we received news that I am an aunt again! I began acting like a little girl the night before Christmas! I wanted so badly to meet the new bundle of joy and try and catch some of the sensation of the moment.

Since I wasn’t yet invited I began trying to occupy my time with other things….so I started planning my funeral. Yes, I know it may sound weird, but for those that know me….I plan. I am a planner. It’s what I do. I LOVE to plan and why wouldn’t I plan my funeral? I figure it’ll save my loved ones the agony of having to figure out what on earth I want. It’s been said that weddings & funerals bring out the worst in families. I figure I am saving them from additional heart ache so that they can focus on, well, me and the blessed event. :)At any rate, in my quest to figure out where I should begin we received a call from the newbie parents who needed a few snacks, I anxiously volunteered to be the deliverer. As I got to the hospital bearing gifts of food my heart was pounding in my chest and I was filled with joy. Just being in the same room as the birthing party made me giddy.

I remember dancing a little jig as I washed my hands because I could not contain myself. As I sat trying to figure out why I was jumping out of my skin, I realized that I was genuinely excited for mom and dad and couldn’t believe baby #2 was here, but mostly because mother got to experience that high, that feeling that can’t be described in any way shape or form. Those moments where you connect heaven and earth, it’s positively amazing and I wanted a piece of it.I savoured every detail trying my best to live vicariously through the moment. I instantly wanted to have another baby! Mind you, my youngest is not yet four months old, but I miss that feeling. It’s like an addiction. I wanted that new birth-high so badly.

What makes matters worse is that I have been praying to know if we are supposed to have any more kiddos and I have not received an answer…as the obsessive compulsive planner that I am, it’s driving me crazy. Everyone says it’s too early to know because I still have a newborn, but I knew she was coming by the time my son was 6 weeks old!

Birth-Day Suprise?!

2008-11-09T20:39:00.000-08:00

I can’t complain about my pregnancy’s. Or at least I shouldn’t. I love the feeling of a baby moving inside of me. However, for some reason once I hit my third trimester my time starts ticking and my foot begins tapping. The day I hit thirty-seven weeks an internal buzzer goes off inside of me and mentally I’m officially done. This is mainly because I’ve always been quite far along into early labor. So I sit and twiddle my thumbs to meet the bundle of joy while the books tell me babies are done cooking at that point and just gaining weight! Wonderful! Can’t my baby come out and gain some weight?

So I do what any pregnant mother who’s hip’s start to tingle while trying to sleep ONLY on her sides—causing a need to rotate quite frequently in the night…I attempt to go into labor. Spicy food, pineapple, long walks, a little hopscotch dance with the hubby (the blessed reason we were pregnant in the first place), jumping rope, playing volleyball, and tug of war! Yes, I’ve tried just about everything! Seriously at that point in big mama-ness I would hop backwards, with one eye closed, and my left hand waving , down a busy street, in the setting sun if it meant the baby would come out!

Yet, all that gyrating leads to a healthy heart rate, but no baby. I knew our second child would be a girl a year before she was even conceived. She had a persistent little personality which scared me to death! I tend to be a little feisty myself and just can’t imagine having another diva in the house. Plus, I have a very active adorable boy whom I love to dress. I was never a fashionista and cringe at the thought that my daughter could be born starting out on the worst dressed list because of moi! Despite my concerns I was excited to meet her.

Induction or Bust…literally! Labor was great. My husband teases me that I was napping through a portion of it. I have to give a shot out to my anesthesiologist! Thank you funny man, in scrubs, with drugs! You rock! Two contractions/pushes later a child was born. I had such an amazing experience when my son was born. That feeling was incredible. But I have to be honest the first thought I had when my daughter was born was, “who’s baby is that?” She surely did not look like my son. She had lighter hair and white skin! I took one look at my husband and asked him if he needed to tell me something. He looked at me as if mentally saying, ‘I’m the Caucasian here” and said, “Darling, do you need to tell me something? “. if I had blinked for more than a nano second I would have been convinced that the nurses had a few tricks up their sleeves and were doing a one, two, switcharoo on me. To add to the festive occasion, when they placed my darling newborn in my arms I couldn’t help but stare at her ear! She had a wrestlers’ ear! It was big and puffy…I immediately tried to picture hairstyles that would hide the poor thing. Needless to say, this second experience was not like my first—the instant bond was replaced with shock; for a child I was sure now needed to cook inside me a little longer.

I guess I just subconsciously expected her to look like my son. Although my labor was so much shorter my poor daughter was so swollen. She looked like a forty year old man with a mortgage and a commuter-job! I was worried. I knew I would love her unconditionally forever, but let’s be honest girls don’t catch a break if they aren’t at least cute in this world. My darling mother saw passed the swollen birth mode and was so positive, which without her knowledge made me feel horrible because I didn’t feel the same way.

Another second child-shocker was her lack of verbal communication. I secretly kept waiting for her to start talking. Or at least I hoped she would. Even though it had only been two years since the birth of my oldest, I had grown accustom to his independence. And now I was starting all over again. I had to reach into my mommy brain and refresh myself with what a person does to interact with a newborn.

Although I didn’t think she was cute immediately after birth, it did not mean that I wasn’t head over heels in love with her. She was an angel from the start. I never thought it was possible to love more than one child as much as I loved my first. I couldn’t have been more wrong.

Weeks after my daughters birth we tried figuring out who she looked like. We stumbled upon a photo of the husband as a baby as well as myself. The result? She looks like both of us. Believe it or not, I was a light-skinned-blue eyed baby for most of the first year of my life. And when my daughter smiles, it’s hard to debate that those dimples are a reflection of yours truly. However, when you are just looking at her before her face lights up, you can clearly see her father. So, aside from my big ears that she inherited from yours truly, I’d say our little peach made out with the best of both worlds.

One Year Later

2008-11-08T21:11:00.000-08:00

As the eve of my sons first birthday arrived I found myself reflecting on what was happening a year ago. Preparing for his arrival, my feelings, being admitted to the hospital, etc. I even brought my husband into the reflection by checking the time and talking about what he was doing and feeling. I woke in the middle of the night (around 2) and crept into my sons room. I scooped him up into my arms and held him. I couldn't see him very well, but I sort of rocked him and reminisced about holding him at the same time one year ago. He was born at 1:43 so I wasn't too far off. I felt so much love and joy and truly realized how big he has grown. I kissed his head and whispered, "Happy Birthday...I love you so much."After a few minutes I gently laid him back in bed and went back to try and sleep.

It is SO easy to talk about the pains and the not so appealing things I endured while pregnant or giving birth etc. but it is also SO easy to forget. Overall, this has been an amazing journey. A wonderful first year, and a memorable occupation. I am SO blessed to be a mother and to have this little one.

Addiction

2008-11-08T21:03:00.000-08:00

My name is Janne' and I have an addiction. Since admitting it is the first step I am sharing the news with you. The only problem is that I am not sure I want to kick my habit. That just may be due to the fact that I am addicted to my family. I simply cannot get enough of them. When I am away from my son and/or husband I am thinking about when I will get to see them again.

In what little spare time I can find for myself I am reading, planning, and plotting on how I am going to spend quality time with them. If time passes where my life and my husbands life is so busy that we haven't had time to spend together, WATCH OUT....cause I am going through withdrawls. I will find things to be mad about and quite frankly I am not the most pleasant person to be around. All because I want to be with my husband and my son.I also have to admit that I find myself to have recluse tendencies. Yes, after my son was born I even had my groceries delivered. It is amazing what you can do online these days to free more time and spend it on other things. For me it is all about my family.

I am trying to branch out. I like to hang out with friends. I do have hobbies. I don't think I have lost all hope. I probably sound pathetic, but man it sure feels good. If you are aware of a support group for such an addiction, by all means let me know. Please specify what time and dates they meet because if the meetings last too long I may have to reconsider. :)

Our Song

2008-11-08T20:55:00.000-08:00

To Make You Feel My Love

One early morning after my son was born (we were still in the hopsital) I was in the nursery feeding him. The nurses had a radio station playing. As I sat there feeding my newborn son a song came on and I began listening to the words. I began crying because at that moment the words expressed so sweetly what I felt. That moment left an imprint on my heart. This song has since become very dear to me. I hope to be able to dance with my son to it at his wedding some day.

To Make You Feel My Love
By: Garth Brooks

When the rain is blowing in your face
And the whole world is on your case
I would offer you a warm embrace
To make you feel my love

When evening shadows and the stars appear
And there is no one to dry your tears
I could hold you for a million years
To make you feel my love

I know you haven't made your mind up yet
I would never do you wrong
I've known it from the moment that we met
There's no doubt in my mind where you belong

I'd go hungry, I'd go black and blue
I'd go crawling down the avenue
There ain't nothing that I wouldn't do
To make you feel my love

The storms of rage are rolling wild and free
Down that highway of regret
The wind of change is blowing wild and free
But you aint seen nothing like me yet

There aint nothing that I wouldn't do
Go to the end of the earth for you
Make you happy make your dreams come true
To make you feel my love

I love you son!Love, Mom

The Only "Now" I Know

2008-11-08T20:31:00.000-08:00

I knew I always wanted to be a mother and a wife. Playing house as a child was one of my favorite things to do. I always imagined I would have a career while I had children--and so I planned out my life.

The end of March brought about a change.During my pregnancy, I was anxious yet nervous at all of the possibilities motherhood could bring. I felt blessed to be able to co-create a child with my wonderful husband. I enjoyed watching his stages of realization that he would be a father.

Labor was great--taking birthing classes and watching videos of birth was more painful for me than actual labor.In the instant that a child is born, the feeling cannot be explained. Emotionally I was at peace, overjoyed, and blessed. This beautiful child was entrusted to me. My son born in @ 1:43am 7lbs 15 oz 21inches long.

He was everything I always wanted. I wanted to hold him forever. I never knew I could love my husband more, until I saw him love our son.Over the next few days and weeks I had a stronger desire than before to create a disneyland-like atmosphere for my family. I began to realize (as most already do) that this is my families time. The only "now" they will ever have.I felt a great deal of responsibility and excitement for what that could entail. I wanted "their happiest place on earth" to be filled with love and laughter, meditation, full tummies, learning, growth, safety, understanding, and acceptance.

Call me old fashioned, but this is my career. In my opinion this isn't a nine-to-five job. Twenty four hours a day, seven days a week, three hundred and sixty five days a year. No Sick days & No paid time off. The world cannot place a dollar amount on the worth of a mother/wife. Paid in hugs, laughter, and kisses, it doesn't get any better than this!

Tell me truly, what is more imporant?

It has been said that at the end of one's life upon reflection a person will not wish that they made more money or had a bigger house or better car, but that they spent more time with the ones that they love.

That time is now. This is the only "now" I know.My career comes with many benefits. Benefits that will outlast my lifetime. And I couldn't be happier.