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| ...leap towards the future | ||
| Take a step back in time... | ||
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Wake Up: JANE IS WALKING |
JANE TOOK HER FIRST UNASSISTED STEPS TONIGHT!! I mean, shes been "walking" but holding on to stuff or our hands (not support her weight but just not confident enough to do it without holding on to us). So amazing. |
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Wake Up: Meds meds everywhere |
Jane is having a great nap-- she didn't really get a good nap this morning so this is the time. She also had her MMR this morning so thats contributing I'd imagine. They normally give MMR and Hib at the same time but I'm doing Hib boosters next month or so, I suppose. I know, vaccinations. I'm pro on MMR, personally. The risks of getting the disease are worse than the risks of the vaccine-- and in Ireland where we have influxes of populations that have no vaccinations, she'd be at risk. I just, I dunno, thats my reasoning. I've been having anxiety like, whoa. Anger, even more so. I thought I was past this. My GP is so great, shes very open and down to Earth (I'm lucky to have her in Ireland, honestly). She said to me "instead of feeling guilty and like you've failed, instead be happy you've made it 2 years without taking anything. I was on 2 different bipolar meds before that and did a bit of, erm, "self medication" before I got pregnant. Well, right before I got pregnant I had stopped the nonsense (because of Cormac, really) and because I was eating right and going to the gym daily, and that REALLY helped me to feel good anyways. Now I just have those troubling highs and lows sinking back in. I'm calling her back tomorrow and she said she'd have a script waiting for me-- she was going to call a psychiatrist for advice since my insurance situation is screwy here. She's, in short, amazing. Imagine having that done for you in the states! I'm curious to see what they will go with. Something for the anxiety I hope, and the outbursts of anger. I can't handle it anymore. I'm glad I brought it up to her, it takes a lot for me to admit I have issues. Cormac does so well with me-- but I can't expect Jane to understand later on why mommy got angry for no reason, or why mommy thinks shes having a heart attack, or why mommy is so upset. I used to get very personal about my "feelings" on this journal its a shame I can't muster it up anymore. So, what else. The weather is beautiful today. It's only now clouding up a bit, about 4pm. I've got to go in for Cormac at 7, so whenever Jane wakes up I'll put some marinade on the mince I took out (pasta bake of some kind tonight, I think) and head on in. We should have went out to the beach or something today but we had a good time playing in the garden and just chilling. Jane finally feel down the stairs. Well, that sounds bad. She was on the last step and decide she could slide down the stairs head first (instead of backwards, safely, like she usually does) and get off the stairs at the same time. One of the few times I was ahead of her, not behind. She just carpet burned her nose. I got a blogspot-- I already had one but I can't remember what the email or password was so I got a new one. I want to do a food blog but as these things go I don't know if I'm dedicated enough to keep it up. I should have taken a picture of Jane's cake when I cut through it. I suck. Its bohemiancrunch.blogspot.com anyways. Nothing is on it yet. I'll update when there is. What happened to the days when I care about this sort of thing? I'm going in for lunch with Cormac tomorrow and well, I suppose we'll be picking up my script too. He is going in for 2 or so and staying through the gig. GUH. These 12 hour days are killing me-- hopefully I will get some relief with whatever they give me. I'm going to plan my day so it goes easier. I'll pick a movie to watch and make up waffle batter (did I tell you my mom mailed me her own waffle iron? I'm going to burn the house down with all the converters/adapters I use in the kitchen, but its so worth it, mmm best ever whole wheat waffles). I now have 8 goodmamas. Well, I have one on the way (woodland splendor). The longer inserts are awesome. Only maybe, 1 person on my list has any idea what I'm talking about. Mmm diapies. Hugh is down on Sunday and himself and Cormac are going on some long walk in the Comeraghs. There is also a festival in Ardmore I had hoped to go to, naturally, on the Saturday/Sunday so I doubt we'll get out to it. Next Thursday is the LLL picnic, which will be great (only because I love the pub and grounds its at, Jack Meades). I think Jane needs... shoes. Like walkers. I feel like I have hobo baby when I let her on the ground with shoes or socks (because they don't stay on, I don't bother). Hm. |
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Wake Up: Happy 1st Birthday, Jane! |
  Birthday Party pictures are here  Breastfeeding 1 year! No formula has passed her lips (besides the cup feed she got at the hospital *scowl*. Jane's party was a hit. We had 30+ people here at one point. Cormac was feeling better after some of his friends ended up showing up- it was thoughtful of them to think of us. I know that when you don't have kids you aren't likely to be "woohoo 1st birthday party, party-on!". It was a great turn out. We were working hard to get plenty of food out and I didn't spend a lot of time socializing but as long as other people are having a good time it makes me happy. Jane got loads of very nice things from the family for her time capsule that she'll be opening up on her 16th birthday. Other than that, some nice books, clothes and a few toys. I'm glad, we weren't bogged down at all with loads of useless toys. We even got a very generous gift certificate for Mothercare. Today is Jane's actual birthday and we're just chilling out. Cormac is recording today and tomorrow, tomorrow I'm going into town for an LLL thing and just to go into town. I'm going to be very homely and scrapbook today. I'm awesome. |
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Wake Up: Ring ring ring ring ring ring ring, banana phone! |
Why are cellphones so damned expensive? I thought I could grab a cheapy on ebay but noooo. I just passed on a Motorola Razr V3 for 50 euros... that was probably stupid. I just need something durable, mildly slobber proof and functional. Maybe I will take you up on your offer schmoo! I am a very important person you know, I'm missing a lot of calls while my phone is dead (chyeah.). There is a babywearing conference on November 14th/15th-- Angelica and I have reserved rooms next to one another (so we can spend the evening picking on other mommies of course) for the Friday night. The babywearingireland moms are having dinner in the hotel on the friday night so it'll be interesting to put usernames to faces, so to speak. Thank krishna for Angelica, she's definitely rejuvenated my belief that there are sane mothers in Ireland (... even though she's not Irish, but thats besides the point). And Cormac and Barry get along swell-- its win/win for everyone. Jane didn't nap this afternoon and after running around the garden for a while and then taking a much needed bath I got her to sleep at 7:30!! 7:30!! It's a little after 9 now, so I think I'm safe for the night. I worry when she goes to sleep so early that she might be "napping". I just had to pick her up and now she is napping in my lap again, but as long as she is sleeping I don't mind. I finally got my cake to turn out. I tried out a recipe from "expert village" for red velvet cake. NEVER AGAIN. Firstly, I knew the recipe seemed poor-- and I didn't like that it used oil instead of butter. That piece of garbage went straight in the bin. I made another cake with a better recipe (with butter) and we have gold. It's in the fridge and I am going to try my best to ice it without fucking it up (I'm horrible at icing, normally because I rush and do it while its hot. I'm taking my time this round). I made Jane an apple spice cake with raisins. It's more like, raisin bread. But its pretty good and healthy (I might make it for myself for breakfasts!). Party tomorrow should be fun, sun should be shining. I'm enjoying the ability to play in our back garden-- it hasn't rained in a while so the ground is dry! Could this be that elusive "summer" people have been on about? |
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Wake Up: NY Times Chocolate Chip Cookies |
You disappoint. Don't get me wrong, they taste good-- but they use way too much butter, the cookies go flat, they are greasy, and for dough I have to be patient enough to wait 12-24 hours while it chills it's not good enough. My ccc recipes remains the best so far in my cookbook. I rock. Gotta make cakes today! Partay tomorrow. Side note: the diet coke I drink religiously is starting to serious effect my anxiety. SIGH. I guess this will force me once and for all to cut down (I drink maybe, 4 cans a day... I know, I know, it's my vice!). |
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Wake Up: Gotta ice me knees |
We took a day trip the other day to trek out my route for the cycle. We were going to head down to Cork but we skipped it because the hospital wasn't allowing in kids because of the vomiting bug that never leaves Irish hospitals. She's at home, and the results were good! Everyone is relieved I believe. We picnicked in Lismore and saw Hancock (which we enjoyed until the horrible cheesy ending-- however "you smell like alcohol" "'cause I've been drinking, bitch"-- awesome.) in Dungarvan. We were nervous but Jane was great and as always the plush cinema in Dungarvan was near empty-- save 1 couple and a group of teenage boys. Here's pictures: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2 Jane's birthday party is Sunday. I'm making cakes tomorrow (red velvet for adults, apple spice sugar free for Jane). I burnt cookies today because Jane distracted me and I didn't hear the timer, ugh. I bought Jane a "smart trike" for her birthday-- I went ahead and put it together now. She loves it-- It has a handle and you can push/steer them around while they are too small to peddle. I'm exhausted. I did 15k today on the bike and it was all pretty much uphill. I have never disliked and liked something so much in my life. My knees were sore-- I'm wondering if it was just the harshness of the incline or if it has something to do with the way my bike is set up. I think the seat needs to come forward. Gotta ice them again. My phone is fucked. Jane has official slobbered it to death-- I'm watching for one on ebay. She's teething like a crazed hyena and I hope to Buddha thats the reason she is random screeching. Its the only sound in the world that if not resolved within seconds makes me want to ram my face into the wall-- I guess it truly is meant to get our attention! We've got patio furniture, and I'm making beef empanadas- Cormac is on fajita detail and some chicken stuff he wants to make, I'm making beans and sausage, crispy potatoes, we have homemade salsa, guacamole, hummus and loads of dippable veg and chips. I hope thats enough food. I like her, but Toni Collette looks hideous when 'act' crying. |
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Wake Up: Undocumented |
Do it, just do it. http://www.rte.ie/news/2008/0717/immigr |
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Wake Up: My little red beauty. |
My Kitchen Aid just showed my sticky bun dough who's boss. edit: orange zest in the dough is delicious. It's midnight and Cormac's not home from the gig until late. I need to force myself to go to bed now or else I'll sit here awake until 3 am. I could snooze on the couch-- for now I'll watch Coupling reruns. Zeppe has been sleeping in a small box 1/3 his size-- we couldn't find him. Now I don't have the heart to throw it away because he loves the thing so damn much. I need to stop looking at cycling gear on Ebay. |
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Wake Up: About Children |
Oh, might I add a super lol-- I'm famous. http://community.livejournal.com/sf_dra And apparently a crazy self-absorbed sahm who's going to cry when I don't have kids to revolve my world around. It's fucking hilarious. I'm just pissed that I let some of them get under my skin while I lost my cool before I knew that armchairtroll was the one bringing all the attention to my comments. I encourage any of you who FULLY disagree with me or think I'm out of line to PLEASE comment here and talk with me about it. I do in fact enjoy discussion when its with intelligent people (and there's not one person here who I feel isn't). Tell me, am I what they say I am? *o cri cri* ( If you want to take the poll... under the cut ) Thanks guys, comment if you want to add anything else. I'm only curious and I won't judge anyone's answers. Some of the questions are have the option for multiple answers and I encourage you to select more than one answer if you want to. |
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Wake Up: Last word on it |
Firstly, if you like cooking, baking or food in general, this is total porn: http://tastespotting.com/ This wedding shit is doing my head in now. People on the interweb can be so nasty, I swear to god. Justletitgoforrealz. I hate environments where real conversation is impossible. I need to force myself to avoid these sort of interactions. I don't care enough anymore, and I don't have patience for the snarky, self-righteousness. Teh stupids r soo clever. LETS BRING KIDS TO STRIPCLUBS! Yeah, I meant that. I'm a gonna do a poll, I just need to figure out how to do it. I'm a paid user for another month so why not. edit: Made the poll, it probably blows but I'm a little interested to see what everyone's opinions are when they can be anonymous. So, I want to apologize if anything I say about being a mom makes you feel I don't think you are a real adult for not having kids. That's definitely not what I mean. I just enjoy this mom stuff. I think its really funny that I'm hardly a traditional mommy. I don't gush over other people's kids. I walk down the street and I'm positively certain in a poll no one would say "yes she has a kid, definitely" unless Jane is with me. In fact I'm pretty sure a load of school boys were trying to chat me up on the corner in our village the other day. Cute. In fact I enjoy being the example to my friends that being a mom doesn't have to be 'lame'. Cormac has a wedding in Dublin so he's just leaving, he'll be gone until 3 or 4 am. Suck-o. I hate this "self absorbed" me me me attitude for brides in weddings. When we get married, it won't be a traditional wedding, but if we were inviting loads of friends and family I'd WANT their kids there because I know what a big part of their lives their kids are. And as an aside-- if you have close friends who have kids and you don't know those kids or acknowledge them, you aren't as good of friends as you think you are. I know, I've done this. Now that I see what a big part of your life your child becomes, I make an effort to acknowledge kids of friends or family. I want the people who come to my wedding to feel loved and I WANT them there, not to oogle my dress or give me present but to share the moment with me. That's what its about. Not this "ooh aren't I the shit?" god I hate brides and weddings. /kids+wedding rant. Long cycle yesterday, might do a short one tomorrow morning before Angelica and co. come over for food and a walk. I'm going to do some homemade pretzel rolls and burgers, and a blueberry/strawberry crumble cake. NOM. We've had some okay weather, but its far from "summer". I owe Ramona and email and Jimmy a phone call. I'm a bad friend. |
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Wake Up: Okay, okay |
I feel the need to make a post specifically about what I really think instead of a passing comment that seems to have caused a bit of an uproar (boy I feel hated today). Child-Free No, I don't really understand it. I've been on the "community" here and it seems to be more people just bitching about how kids annoy them than REAL reasons. I know that some friends I have here have chosen very specifically not to have kids and for a very good reason and that I do respect. And those in question have never given me any reason to believe they hate kids or would discriminate against them or loathe their presence. Parents Hey, I know as well as any one that parents are stupid. Stupid parents = stupid kids = makes us all look bad. I like bringing Jane everywhere. That said I know I would take steps to make sure she was well behaved where a lot of parents ignore their screaming kids. I see kids walking around in Ireland by themselves and think "they completely should not be let to wander alone like that learning how to be knackers from the older kids". I like to believe that as a society we can help kids-- give them places to play or hang out, with good role models, good schools, etc. I do not think we should rely on parents to bring up good members of society. That simply won't happen and you need constant good influence. I do think its EVERYONE'S responsibility, whether you think kids are a part of your life or not Weddings I dislike weddings, in general. Huge wastes of money and indulgent. Then again, you can do what you want if its your wedding, your money. I just see people wasting a few grand on chair covers and napkin rings, I think they can manage to set aside a room for the kids to play in and some people to volunteer to watch the kids. This really only applies to people who HAVE kids in their lives-- that is, people whose friends and family have younger kids. I see people getting bent out of shape who don't even have kids to allow or not allow at their weddings. "Well should I invite kids I don't know?" No. You're an idiot (I'm thinking about sf_drama right now, excuse me). Children are a part of our society. I see other cultures where children are treated like adults and included in all aspects of society and they behave LIKE adults. There is no reason why we can't encourage that in our society as well. Especially in Ireland where I see children being put on the back burner left and right, and left to their own devices where they only cause trouble for themselves. More later, Jane cry. |
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Wake Up: Lazy arse |
I didn't go for my cycle this morning. I'm shameful! We did got for a walk in the woods, though. Tonight: Cormac Chicken, broccoli fusulli DVD Sangria Jane, obviously. -- Side note: Why did I bother wandering into sf_drama? I knew I avoided communities like that for a reason. I thought mommy communities were filled with drama-- hardly! Now I'm clearly insane because I think they should allow children at weddings and I would negatively view a bride who didn't want them at their wedding. Sorry, but children are excluded from too many aspects of our culture and I think its a negative thing. I don't even really love children all that much (Candi feels: 1. Puppies 2. Baby chicks 3. Children), but I respect people who get on with life and start families. We see a lot of our friends just, still pretended to be 18 and soon they will turn around, see they are 45 and realized they missed out. THAT SAID I completely respect that some people don't want to have children at all :) |
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Wake Up: Confusion |
I have to say, I don't understand when people wean at like, 7-10 months. Work? Okay, I get it. But... ugh. I need to stop reading forums on rollercoaster.ie. I swear there are some thick-os abounding (the OTHER women who comment about it). I leave most of it up to misinformation, though. Sad really. Sad about weaning at 8 months? Yeah... maybe you shouldn't have introduced formula at 7 months (that is, you caused the premature weaning that you say you didn't want). He has 4 teeth! And bites! Jane as 6 teeth, when she bites-- she's playing (and no I don't think thats cute, but the point is its not nursing and I don't mean my nipple). Babies can't bite and suckle at the same time. edit(I shouldn't have to do this because mommies on here know what I mean, but since I've had unwanted visitors twisting my crazy thoughts I'll elaborate): I find it disheartening when people wean so close to 12 months-- because if they go those extra few months they'll easily skip formula all together and avoid a lot of hassle. So many of them wean from familial pressure as well and then are regretful later, too. /rant Jane's asleep in my lap and I have to pee. It hasn't reached the point of desperation where my need to pee is more important than letting her nap another 10 minutes. I'm silly. |
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Wake Up: And on the third day... |
Was Jesus' Resurrection a Sequel? It wouldn't surprise me. It's not as though the Christians were the first ones to do the whole "born of a virgin died and rose again" myth. I have a question for you mommies out there. Are you thinking about a second child yet? We're planning the next few years out, and well, its looking like it would be beneficial to have another child... soon. I want to aim for conceiving in that 18-24 month window (I read a few places its optimal, or some such thing). Am I... crazy? We want to have another child and be able to be secure in Ireland until that child is about 1. That way, if we move to the states by fall 2010 I can have stayed home and breastfed for the first year since I'll have to work full time for a short while when we move to the states. I think a 2-3 year age gap is good, yeah? More than that, jealousy, less than that, too much to handle. What do you think? I don't exactly LOVE the idea of being pregnant again (especially since I weigh less than I ever have in my adult life), but I know once I'm in the position I won't care as much. It's on my mind 24/7, its ridiculous. Going to Angelica's in a while. Had a short 7k cycle this morning and tomorrow I'm doing a 15k-20k tomorrow depending on how I feel. We're starting to do fitness walking/jogging? for our 10k in September. We probably won't run it but we'll finish it ;) My cycle is 50k and its the end of August. I know its not that big of a cycle, but its a goal for me. Then again, I cycle up the mountain when I do go out so a relatively flat 50k will probably be a treat. I encountered another cyclist when I was out today for the first time. Luckily I had just turned around because it would have been embarrassing if he had passed me out... although I was reassured when I realized it was tough enough for him, too. Cormac's out for a run (sigh, like, 16k or something, he makes me feel like a couch potato). I'm heading in to town around 2 so I can get some shopping at Tescos. Jane is turning into a little grumpy grump lately. It's full on moaning. She'll be playing away fine for a while and then its EHHHHHHHEHHHHEHHH. Nurse? nah. Walk around? That works for a little while. Nurse? Maybe. Sit on the floor and play with mommy? Nah. Cracker? Eh. Spongebob? 2 seconds, then nah. It's just a general crankiness that I'm going to go ahead and attribute to closing in on 1 year and a lot of recent developmental milestones (trying to walk, standing, climbing, etc). She just gets so frustrated all the time for no reason. It's, irritating. But now I'm over it, I've accepted it, and my patience is back to normal. At first I'd get angry (to myself obviously) because she was acting out of sorts, but now it's peaceful mama time. I'm going to waste some time looking at clothes on ebay. I'm in search of a dress for Hugh and Catherine's wedding. All the dresses in the shops right now look like ridiculous debs (think prom) dresses or make me look 12. I couldn't find anything in the states other than cotton sun dresses. I have a few possibilities at home, but one is really coming undone at the seams (I can sew it up, but I don't like it that much... and for $5 at goodwill I can let it go) and the other 2 are on the slutty side. I don't know, Oona said she might have some dresses I could take a peek at. I need to get some things for Jane's party, too. Which is not this weekend but next. 1 year old, 1 YEAR OLD! She's beautiful and intelligent. Will we walk fully before then? Le sigh. She can do it, but she is unsure of herself. Step step fall. |
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Wake Up: Jane's Birthday Party Invite |
I had this typed but earlier but I had to abandon it *Jane attack*. I'll update it. Delicious dinner with Angelica and Barry Thursday night?, a ratatouille with cod bake, it was just NOM. I have to give it a try myself sometime. We ended up being there for roughly 6 hours chatting about this or that (ahem, other moms, babies and politics). It was great. I feel like we're all getting to know one another a bit more. Need to shoot her an email and try to have them over for dinner this week sometime. I just made some peanut butter cookies. Cormac is playing a wedding tonight-- its under a tent, and its been raining and horrible the last few days. I guess that bride didn't bank on July being ridiculously wet. We spent the last two nights at Cormac's parents in Cobh. It was nice to let Jane spend some time with everyone. Cormac's mom is going in for surgery this week so we wanted to visit with her for a little while. Moira, John Alan and Hugh came for dinner one night. Went to Halfords and got a new carseat for Jane. Missed out on going into Cork city since it was pissing rain, bah. Maybe another time. And, if you are in Ireland (and I mean it! Bring the kids!):  |
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Wake Up: But, but... sigh. The Return of the Menses! |
UGH! I got my period back :( That's 20 months without a period folks! Ah, it was a fun run. At least I can chart my cycles now like I've been wanting to. Breastfeeding, ftw. -------------------------- Woke up this morning, it was raining, so as a combo I didn't end up going for my cycle. Blah. I need to get back into the groove. I'm waiting for Cormac to finish making unholy amounts of salsa and guacamole so I can do some school work before we go to Angelica's. |
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Wake Up: I have to catch up on my Eastenders ominbuses... |
I'm a lucky girl. Just looking at my photos of Jane and Cormac over the last year. I have done up an invite for Jane's 1st birthday... I'm pretty sure I'm going to e-invite most people. She's in the "walking is cool but I can crawl faster phase" and won't walk unless she is daintily holding my fingertips. But she'll climb up and down the stairs at lightning speed. Le sigh! Our realtor William came by and accessed our house today. We're listing at 255k, which is what we expected, realistically. And its likely we will have to accept an offer lower than that to sell. I have to stop looking at homes in Southern New Hampshire and Maine. I was looking at house to RENT because we'll have to rent until I get a job and have a reliable stream of income or else I might as well forget getting a mortgage, ha. And, on top of things, my parents are probably moving. They are going up to North Carolina to visit my mom's friend and they will make their final decision then. Good for them, Florida is a wasteland. That said, talk about a road trip to see everyone else! It would be handy because when we visit next year we want to spend some time up in New Hampshire and North Carolina is 11 hour closer than Florida. Angelica came over with Isabella and broke up my long day home alone. I have a great time shooting the shit with her, its nice to have a crunchy mom to hang out with. Jane loves the girls too, and vice versa. We're going over tomorrow for dinner so that'll be a treat. Perhaps I will bake... cookies! It's just an excuse to get rid of half of what I make so we don't eat them all. Cormac and I went into town today and had lunch. I have to pick him up around 10:30 from recording. Maybe Jane will fall asleep and stay asleep in the car. She's gotten in the bad habit of, not sleeping. I think its just the both of us adjusting from jet lag. She had a 2 hour naps this afternoon which threw me completely-- but it was out of the car! I can dream.  |
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Wake Up: What to see what gold looks like? |
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Wake Up: First Birthday |
We are closing in on Jane's first birthday. I think, pending any gigs on Cormac's part, we're going to part-ay on Sunday, July 20th (her birthday is on the 21st). Ireland mommies are invited! I have no gauge of how many people will be able to come, but I made up invites (because photoshop is fun). I'm trying to plan things to do. My big project I think will be a time capsule I'll give her on her 16th birthday (stole that idea from somewhere, but its a good one) full of things that happened in her first year on Earth and a letter from me and a letter from her dad (I'm going to give Cormac this project and it'll take him hours to complete it, because he types slowly, ha). I think it'll be fun. I'm asking people to bring things for the time capsule instead of encouraging gifts. Any other ideas? I'm crunchy-crazy, so I'm making Jane a healthy cake so I can make the adult cake ridiculously unhealthy. I can't help it. Speaking of which, I used my kitchenaid tonight to make cookie topped blondies. They are... good. |
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Wake Up: Fun times |
Your result for The Commonly Confused Words Test... English GeniusYou scored 93% Beginner, 100% Intermediate, 100% Advanced, and 93% Expert! You did so extremely well, even I can't find a word to describe your excellence! You have the uncommon intelligence necessary to understand things that most people don't. You have an extensive vocabulary, and you're not afraid to use it properly! Way to go!
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Wake Up: Back in Ireland |
Well folks, we're back. And it would seem our old gal Summer has forgotten her Irish children and the weather we've returned to is hardly dry and sunny. The trip was easy peasy. Quick jump to Atlanta and then a straight flight to Dublin. 3 hours + on the bus and Cormac's band mate Ben picked us and all our crap up and drove us home to Portlaw. We had a large box (with my kitchenaid mixer inside, it looks great sitting on my kitchen counter!), 3 suitcases, several carry on bags and a guitar... what a load. Last bits of the trip were great. Cruise, Georgia to see Ramona and Jason, and then finished it off hanging with Crystal and Ethan and even had time out to have a few drinks and vertiglow bowling in dear old Crystal River. One thing I have to say is I did not run into a lot of random people in CC. A handful. I didn't see a load of friends either. We were definitely sad to miss out on Jay and Paloma although I know schedules are hard to work in sometimes. We were running around a lot as well. Ashley, its okay- I understand! Missed out on Dallas but at least we got Jimmy for a full day... le sigh. I never did touch base with ![[info]](http://p-stat.livejournal.com/img/userinfo.gif){kind=small} schmoomom either! That's okay, we've got the same distance between us in Ireland, too! I think I'd be willing to day trip it one day for funsies. We have some pretty set plans for next year. Coming over for a couple weeks in Florida, then roadtripping up to New Hampshire to check out some of the places we are considering moving. We'll probably do some stopping on the way up to see Crystal and Ethan in Athens and of course Ramona, Jason and little AJ in Calvary.... maybe even marlatiara and little roo? eh? eh? And, ah, yes, moving. We're deep in constant thought about moving. In fact... we are probably popping the house up for sale, immediately. If we can sell, we'll rent for 400+ cheaper than our mortgage... and thats money we can save. I even just threw up a resume to see if I get any bites on a NH seacoast website. We'll see, its all up in the air at the moment.So, pictures? I've got a lot of pictures. Four facebook albums, RANDOM FL 1, CRUISE, RANDOM FL 2, FRIENDS VISITS |
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Wake Up: The rain is finally pouring. |
So they've been well without rain for a while now and it's good to see that its pouring rain today. What's not so hot is my needing to go to the store and the doctor in about an hour. Oh well! I wish it pour like this in Ireland (as opposed to misty ehhhhh rain). And THUNDER! Short recap. I'm pretty sure the internet is out at the moment so I'll just type this up in the meantime. I can't remember what I talked about in my last update. A week or so ago Cormac and I went out to Fort Cooper State Park-- it was nice to take a walk on our own together as a family. We walked near the water and I swung with Jane and we sat her on one of those spring horses and she was in heaven. We did walk to the "fort" but it was ridiculously hot. We were very bad kids and went to Burger King afterwards for a cheap lunch. I'm just going to separate my paragraphs with an extra space. I only do the colors because I feel like it makes a long entry more readable. I'll stick with this for now until I figure out a good color combo because I still like doing that. This weekend I had my yard sale. I got rid of a lot of junk although I had a mountain of junk to begin with so I have some small undulating hills of possessions left over. I made just about $200. It bought groceries, meals out, gas and some clothes with a bit of left over. Jim showed up bright and early on Saturday and stayed the whole day, "helping" me make sales. There are a handful of friends I get very excited to see when I see them and Jim is one of those, like a brother. After some scratch-offs and goofing around we had lunch at Crackers and parted ways. By the way, I've been playing Florida lotto in hopes that I'll win 20 million to no avail. I read something that said you have a higher likelihood of dying on your way to buy a lotto ticket than actually winning any money. Meh, odds is odds. Sunday we all went up to Gainesville by lunchtime. We didn't really do anything interesting during the day. We walked around the mall and did a bit of shopping-- I'm sure Cormac was thrilled but he was helpful in picking out nice things for me to try on. I don't get to shop, you know? I can't afford nice clothes in Ireland, lol. Plus, when you are trying on sizes 4 and 5, and some 6's are too big, uhm, its an enjoyable thing. Jane played in the oaks mall "swamp" and had a BALL. She was chasing down the other kids and trying to mimic them. If we had a play area like that in Waterford and she was in there every day she'd be running around in a week's time. We finally met up with Shaun and Nicole around 4pm and had a great time chatting with cheese, crackers and glasses of wine. They went all out and got Jane two really awesome toys that she is obsessed with. Unfortunately we didn't get to see Jay and Paloma :( I think our wires got crossed and days got mixed up. Maybe we'll see you the weekend before we leave? Speaking of that. This goes out to just about everyone and I'll try to do more contacting in the meantime. If you still care about us and want to see us before we island hop-- we leave Monday, June 23rd. We're in the county, at home, sitting by the pool drinking Sangria and eating food Friday 20st, Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd. Come see us. Invite us out in the county. But we just can't do anymore traveling and driving around really. We get back from cruising early on Monday and we're out the door to Tallahassee/Georgia early on Tuesday (I've got a dermatologist appt in Ocala so we figure we'll just jump on 75 and go on up). Now we are stopping in Gainesville on our way up to see my girls in the Anthro office and probably grab some lunch on our way but I don't want to dilly dally so... those are our days. 20-22nd. Another thing. I know a couple people have messaged me on Myspace. I don't know why, but I CANNOT log into Myspace. Cormac can only log into his music profiles? Wtf is up with that? I log in and it brings me back to the log in saying "You have to be logged in to do that!". I'm going to clear cookies and cache and what not to see if it helps but if you want to reach us comment here, call us 352-220-3495 or email me angelfalling at gmail.com Cruising to Mexico on Thursday! wooohoo Pictures: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2 |
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Wake Up: Gainesville Today |
Sorry I haven't been updating. We're in Gainesville today-- if you are around call us! 352-220-3495. We're on the cruise this Thursday- Monday. I'm in Tallahassee either Tuesday-Thurday or Wednesday-Friday and then we are in Citrus County for the 21st and 22nd (Sat & Sun) before we leave. If you want to see us PLEASE come to the county, we can't fit in any more traveling around unfortunately! I will be making a few calls (I didn't forget you Ashley/Anne Marie) too. We leave Monday the 23rd. |
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Wake Up: Florida Update |
I suppose I should update something. We've been very busy lounging by the pool. Jane is perking up a lot more although she is going in and out of serious periods of separation anxiety. Bah. Jane really enjoys the pool now and doesn't seem to be phased by the heat or the sun. I have to admit, I didn't think we'd handle it as well as we are. I'm already building up a decent tan. So far our schedule hasn't been too full. This weekend I though we'd be up in Tally or Jacksonville but we are still waiting-- Ramona's baby had a minor respiratory issue and was in ICU for a day. He's fine now, but understandably they are being held up for 24 hours and will likely get out on Saturday morning. They have a follow up doctor's appointment on Monday morning so we're going to wait until after that to come see them. We WERE going to go up to Jacksonville to see Jim and Dallas but it seems he's going to come down to the county next weekend. On Friday/Saturday this week I'm having a yard sale, and we're going up to Gainesville on Sunday to hopefully see Jay, Paloma, Shaun and Nicole. I will miss the girls in the office but I think we'll drive through Gainesville to go to Georgia so we can make a stop. The weekend after that we're on our Cruise in Mexico, OOOoooo la! Let me know if these colors are better. Tomorrow we might go to Cedar Key in lieu of something better to do. Yesterday we chanced going to the movies with Jane and it turned out great! We saw Ironman (which, btw, was awesome). Had an early lunch at Crackers on the water and headed home. We bought a movie on demand here at the house, "There Will Be Blood". Hmm. I wasn't impressed, personally, although I can see why it has received so much praise. So, now Jane is fast asleep after a good swim and a bath. Earlier today I went to the gym (which is free for Pine Ridge residents, and luckily enough my driver's license has the address here on it since I renewed it while living in Ireland) with my mom and had a pretty decent work out, particularly a cycling machine they have. Cormac has been keeping up with his runs, fair play to him. He's getting a sexy tan ;) We're likely to go out in good old citrus county to Applebee's with my parents tonight for dinner. Life is good. This place is great for a relaxing vacation, but as time goes on I remember that I would not want to live here. Florida that is, not America. We're throwing around the idea of putting the house up for sale, well, as soon as we get back. We're throwing a lot of money away on a mortgage with high interest, when we could sell the house, save the equity, and pay a low rent in town in a house of equal quality until we make any decisions about moving to America. It's all up in the air, but its an idea. We'll see. |
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Wake Up: In Florida |
Things are going well here in Florida. I haven't had any time to read LJ or update, oh noes! So I have no idea whats new with anyone. First things first-- Congratulations to my best friend, my "sister", Ramona darkjewel85 on the birth of her baby boy Anthony James yesterday, May 27th, around 7am!I've uploaded a load of pictures from my family's BBQ and Memorial day here. Jane was sick during the BBQ... a combination of bringing down the top 4 front teeth (total of 6 teefs!) and having the sniffles before we took off left her a bit vulnerable for illness. She's been moody and clingy ever since, and she is only now coming back into herself. I hated it, because we had to take her to the doctor and get antibiotics because she was just completely miserable and out of sorts, lethargic and feverish. BAH! Well, first illness in 10 months, thats okay I suppose. We're having a great time, meanwhile the weather in Ireland is completely and utter crap. Ha ha! More later. If I haven't gotten in touch with you don't take it personally I've just been busy.... relaxing. |
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Wake Up: I'm in Florida |
More later-- but we're here and safe! |
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Wake Up: God brings out the best in people! |
Sigh. Every time I read someone going on about Jesus or God my stomach turns a bit. No offense out there. That said, I love you Angela, thanks for the entertainment today, ha! That good program was on the other day, "Competitors of Jesus" or something like that, talking about all the other "prophets" going around in Jesus' time, basically saying the same things, and how his little groupies beat out all the other little groups, and the snowball of Christianity into the Roman empire, yadda yadda, whatever. If you know history you know what I'm talking about. I just can't comprehend this blind, cult following anymore, its beyond me. Speaking of related issues, I saw the full Louis Theroux special on "the most hated family in America"--- they are crazy Christians (a cult, they live in the same "area" and there is a "leader" who runs circles around real questions and claims to know the real true meanings of the bible, etc etc) who hold up sign saying god hate fags and god hates america and preaches that the war was created by god as a way to kill off the sinful of America... at the funerals of soldiers! loller-lollerskates. They are also *lol* Baptists! I love it. I saw the end of it before, and it was scary watching the full documentary. And, I completely love Louis. You can actually watch the whole thing here: http://video.google.com/videoplay?d So, we leave tomorrow morning for Florida! Cormac is doing a bit of teaching this afternoon and Oona is picking us up this evening to stay at her house in town tonight. We're getting the bus up to Dublin at 3:30AM so, its going to be a long day. We had no interest in wasting money staying overnight in Dublin even with some gracious offers to drive us up so we didn't have to leave the car. Jane should sleep in the bus. My worry is the plan. I have a bit of Calpol (its like, Tylenol, kind of) just in case we start pulling that tooth through hard and she's having a tough time. I don't like the idea of it but there is no reason for her to suffer needlessly and work herself up. She's being clingy today I assume it has something to do with both her teething and the fact that we are hustling around. Zeppe has been out of sorts the last few days and utterly depressed when we were taking him to the kennel. We feel horrible, but he'll live and he likes Heather and all will be well. Crossed fingers Jane will be angelic on the flight and sit still the whole way... ahem. We had Tommy and Kate over for dinner the other night before we head off, which was nice. I went to Angelica's yesterday so we could sneak in another gab session before we run off. I'm sure we'll pick up where we left off when we're back from Florida. It's great to have "mommy and daddy" friends who are as close as you could get to being, well, pretty much just like us. Other than that, not much else to say. Thursday we're going to Ocala for a bit of shopping with Mom, BBQ on Saturday with my family, and so on. I'm ready for cut off pants, tank tops and flip flops, WOOHOO. And best wishes to my best friend Ramona darkjewel85 who is due on the 24th with her baby boy. He better be on time, I have a schedule to keep! ;) Anywho, I'll update you all when we get the other side of the ocean! It's about damn time!oh, AND we're missing Obama in Tampa... he's there tomorrow during the day! |
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Wake Up: Countdown to relief |
 Obama's the man. Today in Monday. Oona is picking us up tomorrow evening after Cormac is home from teaching and we're going to try to get some sleep before our bus at 4am. Bus to the airport, flight at 9:30am, arrive NYC at 11:45, leave 3:45, arrive Tampa, Florida 7pm. IT'S HAPPENING NOW! Jane has decided to teethe... now. Please break that tooth through by Wednesday, please!! |
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Wake Up: Spiders! |
All the spiders are coming inside the house. I'M DEATHLY AFRAID OF SPIDERS. I hate them. I don't care if they eat other bugs. I would rather have all the other bugs (I never see any other bugs in the house) than have 1 spider in my house. They are little messengers of satan. If I heard of a place that had no spiders, I would move there. It's kind of like Ireland that would be a complete haven for people afraid of snakes. No snakes. I need no spiders. (I'm coming to Florida in 5 days, yay!) |
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Wake Up: Punky Brewster |
Remember, do you remember? Remember! The humorous thing to me is when I was reading comments on a "where are they now" site, the only episode someone could remember is the one where she gets locked in the fridge. THAT'S THE ONLY ONE I CAN REMEMBER TOO! Could I have been traumatized by this? I think its possible. Anyone with the name Soleil Moon Frye is cooler than me, even if they don't still wear like the most awesomest shoes evar. ... I'm getting tired. Love to be DD any moment now. |
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Wake Up: Talking about my visit home to Florida-- my schedule |
I'm annoyed that every time I log on to facebook David's face is on my page as "People You Might Know" because we are probably the only strangers on facebook with such a huge number of the same friends. I wish you could select "yes, I know who they are, but I don't give two shits about what applications they are adding these days". There is something wonderful about having no idea what he is doing now. Speaking of voices from the past-- I just got an email the other day that Rob is engaged. I knew he had bee seriously dating a girl for a while so it was naturally only a matter of time. I'm glad to see its happened so quickly for him. I won't say more than that. I don't know if I got the "mass" email on purpose or accidentally, but I hope it was purposeful and I did email him back congratulating him. We're still snot city over here. Ugh. Even Cormac is sick, and he is never sick. Jane is still snotty and I'm going to go up to see Eimear tomorrow (public health nurse) for advice. I don't want to take her into the doctor right yet. If its nothing and she will get over it on her own Eimear will tell me. Plus I meant to go in to her a few weeks ago for a weighing and a milestone check but I am not too worried about any of that. I'm more worried that she's moody and gets hit with waves of lethargy... although she has still be scrambling around the place as usual so she can't be that bad. I mostly want to know if she has anything that we need to treat before the plane. I'm better off seeing the doctor in the US since it won't cost me anything... I can get in on Jane's visits, normally... sneaky as I am, since she is free. I'm already going to see the chiropractor and the dentist, lol. This always happens. I'm NAK (nursing at keyboard), Jane falls asleep in my arms and immediately I have to pee. Ughhh. *pause* Ah success, I put her down. I needed to clean all her toys and mop and clean up the kitchen. Done and done. I'm going to go through clothes later today for packing. It's crazy. Tomorrow I'm taking Cormac in, seeing the nurse, picking up Cormac later that evening because he is going to grab a pint with some pals for once. The weekend will pretty much be here in the blink of an eye and then we are going to Oona's on Tuesday night since we are catching the bus up to Dublin around 4am. Sunny Florida, here we come! It has warmed up here, however. It's.. 65, as the high. And that's warm! What am I going to do with 87 (for example, the high at my parents today)? Swimming! That's what I'm going to do! HAHA. I can't freaking wait. I miss you guys, or something. Time to talk about my timetable. We get in to Tampa around 7 on the 21st, and we are going straight to CC. Around the house for a while and a family BBQ at the house on the 24th. I will probably be in Gainesville on the way back from seeing Ramona and the baby and Crystal and the gang in Tally-- that probably means memorial day week (26-30th) So please let me know if you are able to meet up (I'm looking at you Shaun, Jay/Paloma any other Gainesvillians). When I go is totally dependent on when Ramona has her baby so get out of that belly little TJ! I may be in Sarasota the 6th so Tampa-- that's when I'm heading your way. That weekend I'm in CC and I hope to have a big yard sale to get rid of all my personal belongings in storage so I can waste all the earnings in Mexico. I welcome anyone who wants to help me move the massive enormous pile of useless accumulation from my storage unit to sell. I'll also make cookies for you. Maybe lemonade, if you are lucky. Our Cruise is the 13th-16th so don't try to make plans with me then. I'll be busy getting massages, drinking rum runners and applying sun lotion to my Irish babies (Cormac and Jane, obviously). Crystal is in CC the last week of my trip 17th-22nd. So I was hoping we could have that big BBQ that weekend Jim, before I leave. Then if anyone is in the vicinity of Citrus County while I'm actually in the County (which is pretty much any time I'm not in tally or on the cruise) you can come see ME. I can't drag around the whole state, unfortunately, but I want to see as many of you as I can so I would love if you would come out to see us. As for the "reunion"... hmm. I'm undecided. Only if I find myself doing nothing. I'm hacking up a lung here, gotta run. |
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Wake Up: Natural Disasters much? |
I'm started to get a little saddened by all the death. Cyclone in Myanmar Tornados in the US Now an Earthquake in China kills at least 9,000... tough going. I normally say "well, that's nature" but humans are not catching a break this year it would seem. Most of us are pretty lucky though. Imagine the uproar if this happened in the US, it'd be horrific and you'd still be hearing about it for the next decade. Most American's probably don't even know that the cyclone or will know that this earthquake hit. Anyways, hurricanes are welcome to hold off for the summer, though. ----- I have a cough but I want to go for a cycle when I get home from picking up Cormac. I need to find my Delta SkyMiles card so I can look at our flights on delta.com, stupid. |
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Wake Up: Get $25 for free, last chance guys... |
Oh, by the way, Revolution Money Exchange is ending their free money thing the 15th (unless it was extended and I didn't hear about it). So this is pretty much your last chance to get $25 for free. No catch. Sign up, add your bank account (like Paypal), deposit the money and its yours to spend. Or spend it online like with paypal. Whatever you want. And if you have time to sign up any friends, you'll get $10 for getting them to sign up. There is no obligation to use it after that. ( A pic of my bank statement with the RME deposit showing ) So, last shot. Click the button time:  An article about the company's legitimacy: http://www.usatoday.com/tech/techinvest About your SSN: http://prosperlending.blogspot.com/2 Just for the record, I've used RME to transfer money person-to-person as well, and I found it quite handy! |
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Wake Up: Oh mucus, oh mucus, oh how I hate thy mucus... |
It's official. I'm sick as a dog. I'm fighting it but I think for all of our sakes (and my dry burning throat and sinuses) I'm finally getting a humidifier today. I also just realized that I'm getting paid for my work from Hugh (I forgot about it really) and doing the conversions realized its nearly $400. God I love the US dollar. It makes budgeting so much easier for us. Anyways, humidifier. It's so ridiculously dry in our house that it isn't helping matters. Jane is such a trooper, go breastmilk. She has a running nose and that's about it. She's breaking teeth through so I think she is more concerned with that than with us and our colds. Cormac was sick for you know, a day. It's not fair. I haven't been sick for MONTHS and I start eating healthy and cycling and then I end up sick. Is there no justice in the world? I was thinking of going to the doctor but in reality what good will it do. Antibiotics might not do anything if its just viral. I'm taking some GSE and I'll put some drops in the Neti pot tonight to see if it helps. I'm not optimistic. Overall I don't want to get on the place with this amount of congestion... or with Jane congested, for that matter. I'm going into town later with Jane if we are both feeling up to it. I want some Jump Juice. It makes me feel good. I ate like crap yesterday (and didn't eat much) and had a drink (went walked to the Cotton Mill for Sunday lunch with Tommy), so I've only myself to blame there. It was Mother's Day in the US yesterday so it wasn't anything special here. I certainly got no recognition outside of a few facebook/LJ messages-- oh well. It's just Mother's Day. I'm going to call my mom today. She has church Sunday mornings (*eyeroll*) and We were then gone, came home and took a nap, and Jane was napping a lot in my arms so I didn't get a chance. I just spoke to her several times this week, though, so I think I'm okay. lol. It's 9 days until Florida. Jane has awoken, so more later. |
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Wake Up: Happy Mother's Day, Mommies! |
Happy Mother Day to all the mommies on my list! I'd list you all but I don't want to accidentally leave someone out.  |
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Wake Up: Dogging? |
What the fuck is... dogging? I've just heard about this phenomena. Apparently strangers meet online or a regular "meeting" place is advertised and people show up to have sex with strangers in public while others watch. And this is apparently POPULAR! I got linked to a page with various people listing places very close to where I live where this shit happens (apparently its popular in Ireland?)... like the suirway train station parking lot. I'm... disgusted. |
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Wake Up: Teething, traveling, fun |
Jane is teething hella hard and I feel really bad. I know its those upper front teeth as her gums are quite swelled there. She is happy for ages and then goes into angry crank uncomfortable baby syndrome. She doesn't want to nurse or be held a certain way-- she just squirms and squirms and cries-- but yet she doesn't want me to put her down she just crawls after me and lifts her arms up to me. It's so frustrating... but its not her fault, obviously. It must be tough. She's finding naps hard because she gets herself worked up. She's congested and I think its sore to nurse and eat because she hasn't had much desire for solid foods and she is biting a bit. I might go down to the pharmacy later and see about baby tylenol? I hate given her something like that but the Teetha gel might as well be water because it doesn't seem to make a bit of difference. I just want her to be over it before we go on the flight! Bah. Mostly the congestion, because I know it could be painful for her (ears) during takeoff/landing. I'm sorting out the luggage situation. It's more of a deal on the way back because we are not bringing much over. Looks like domestic flights now only allow one checked bag free but international flights are still allowed 2 bags checked. I'm curious if Jane gets any checked luggage. We still have to buy her ticket which makes me nervous-- when we called they said we pay for her when we check in o_O ... as a rule I don't trust airlines not to fuck up things like this. I will call again soon. |
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Wake Up: Twitter twitter |
I will not make cinnamon rolls. I will not make cinnamon rolls. I will not make cinnamon rolls. ... but I have a new recipe with whole wheat... sigh. No sweets until Florida! *wrist slap* I rented The Golden Compass. We're going to watch it any moment now. I wonder if it sucks. Should I cross train inside? I'm still kind of sick... but I don't want to go too long in between cycles not doing anything. Hmm. I'm sure comments like this are what twitter is for. But I resist. |
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Wake Up: snarkville! |
lol I love when people get bitchy over menial things on teh interwebs. And I thought breastfeeding debates were bad. Now I'm arguing greeting cards! ha, it gets better. She called me out on ![[info]](http://p-stat.livejournal.com/img/community.gif){kind=small} domestic_snark. I don't get it-- Mother's Day in Ireland was in March. No more mother's day cards. I waited too long, and even if I got into town last week to get a card and ahem "write three word-- Happy Mothers Day" she wouldn't have gotten it in the mail by Friday. So I used www.greetingcarduniverse.com, sue me. I paid a shit load less than they would have ripped me off for a card here in Ireland and only had to pay regular US postage. I think I did well ;)OH NOES THE WORLD IS ENDING PEOPLE ARE USING TEH INTERWEBS FOR GREETING CARDS! At least I wasn't tacky and didn't send an e-card (no offense to those that do... ahem)/ |
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Wake Up: Teddy Ruxpin |
Jane needs this  Anyone else lame enough to have one? I had no idea they still made these things. Digital now... and like, $60. wtf. |
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Wake Up: Sunshine State countdown: 2 weeks |
You wish you had my butternut squash soup. 1 butternut squash 1 cup of buttermilk (I mix this up, today I used about 1/2 sour cream and a little less than 1 cup of low fat milk) 1 tbsp curry powder 1/2-1 cup of grated parmesean cheese pinch of salt and pepper 3-5 strips of bacon A hungry mommy Cut the squash in half and roast in a shallow pan filled with about 1 cup water at 425 for 40 minutes. Scrap it out into a food processor (I use a smoother maker, lol). Add the milk and processor until its in its creamy splendor. Make your bacon... I use the broiler on the oven, you can do it on the stove or microwave whatever you do. Cut up into little pieces. Put it on the stove on low heat, add curry powder, shredded parmesean, salt pepper, bacon (add that grease too baby it tastes divine). Consume. -------------------- I don't know how I thought of that soup but playing with flavors one day I just figured it out. Its so tasty and quick for lunch. It's not healthy really... but you can make it healthier I suppose by not adding in the grease and using low fat milk... but its not as delicious ;) I feel, bad. Long story short I know I'm not pregnant anyways ;) I started on the mini pill... I hope I don't gain weight. I'm fn thrilled about my weight loss. I'm not even really dieting (although I'm going to start really cutting back... I stopped the sweets and am NOT making anything until we go to Florida). I'm at about 9 stone (~126lbs) give a pound or two depending on the time of day... which is low for me! I can't really believe it and hadn't noticed it myself so much, but everyone else seems to when they see me! Go cycling! So I was saying how I feel bad. Headache, fatigue, head congestion (not running sinus), I woke up with that morning sore throat that wears off as the day goes on... stomach discomfort slight nausea. Flu? I don't know. Jane has a runny nose but I think thats teething. She's irritable. Well, as irritable as she gets. I think the top teeth are coming down, god help us. Anyhow, I jut want to sleep. The sun is shining, FINALLY. It's warm... ish. I went to the shop but I'll talk a longer walk later on. My tettitett (mei tai... baby carrier) didn't come today. Ugh. Stupid coming from the states. I haven't gotten the Grisfanten that I was going to get from the sling library either so I will probably have to tell her to strike me off the list... because... WE ARE GOING TO FLORIDA IN 2 WEEKS! I'm very anxious, can you tell? Who wants to see me? I hope people come to visit me :( I'm still cool, right? At least I know Jim will come through with a BBQ. I have to make a list. I will not be going to the "reunion". Elana? Sarasota? I'm all about the beach. I'm going to Georgia/Tally to see Ramona and likely Gainesville as well. I'll be in Citrus most of the time feel free to get off your asses and come to visit me. thx. I'm sweating, weird. |
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Wake Up: Jane stood up! |
Jane is standing up by herself now! She did it a few times this evening. I'm gushing with pride! |
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Wake Up: Now I can tell you apart... |
You might have guessed- I'm alive. I have no clue what was going on yesterday. Maybe anemia? I took my iron yesterday and feel okay today. Kind of sick, but without the cold. My ears are stuffed up and I feel tired. It's probably just, exhaustion, or something. I went to the doctor and she took a look in my ears and asked all the questions and mostly said don't worry too much about it unless it happens again. Sometimes these things happen. That puts my mind at ease. I was mostly thinking maybe an inner ear infection or something but obviously its not that. I was really shaken by the whole thing... I don't faint. Bleh. Jane is pretty much over the thrush. I used her to get my question in for free at the doctor :P. I knew she was over it but it was good to have the doc clear her. I'm at home now, picking up Cormac at 7. I had a chat with Ramona on Facebook yesterday and that was fantastic. I'm very excited to come home and see all the usual heads. I need to make a vague plan on what we are going to do while we're in Florida. There is a week we are in Mexico on the cruise and before that I'm sure we'll be up in Georgia/Tallahassee to see Ramona and her bouncing baby boy. I'm going to wait until they come home from the hospital, more than likely. We're going to Angelica and Barry's on Friday to have dinner. I feel like I'm doing well and making a good effort to socialize. I went to an evaluation meeting for the LLL the other day and that was nice, I feel like its something I can devote some energy to in the future to help out. I think the next meeting is next week... at least I know I'll only miss one of the meetings while we're gone. I'm obsessed with these juice places lately. I always avoided them because I was fruitphobic, but now that I'm neither fruit nor veg phobic anymore (unless you are an onion, in that case, I have no time for you, stinky) I'm getting one of these fruit smoothies instead of frozen coffee (which I realized at BB's is just a milkshake... I noticed last time they just put a few scoops of mocha ice cream in the blender, sigh) for health reasons. They are so delicious-- and you watch them throw in the fresh berries and a large juicers makes orange juice... add in yogurt and ice-- deliciousness in ma mouth. If fruit wasn't ridiculously expensive I would make these at home. Jane had a taste, she approved. Cormac and I had a nice little morning... doctors, Palmer's and lunch. The lady at the carvery looked at me like I much be crazy because I didn't want her to give me 5 lbs of mashed potatoes and mixed veg and a lake of gravy and stuffing. You should have seen the lady before me, the server pretty much piled her high. There were a lot of American tourists there, as well... and I thought that was funny. Something I'm still not over... and feel I might have nightmares about... today I saw a stereotypical Waterford wench... fake tanned oompa-loompa style with pink lipstick. HEY, LADY, your face should not be the color your lips should be and your lips shouldn't be the color your face should be. Just saying. I won't comment on your stupid stiletto whatever outfit. Bring on the hicks in citrus county. At least they are... something. I cried last night watching 'I Am Legend' because his only friend in the film was a beautiful german shepard and she gets bitten by the... vampire dogs or what not... and he has to kill her. WTF. Kill him first and let the dog live. The funny thing is the day before we caught bits of "The Last Man on Earth" which was the original film... from 1964. lol it was horrible. How cute is my child?   |
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Wake Up: Reason to live |
So... anyone have a idea what happened to me today? I'm just now feeling a bit better. It's 7pm. Around 10am I was sitting with Jane when I got a drill headache on the left side of my head. It was pretty bad and I'm a google junkie so I was going to look it up, but as I was doing that I start feeling very faint. Like, tingling. I knew knew knew I was going to faint. So much so that I had no other ideas but to yell "Help me!!" I very nearly did, but didn't faint. The tingling closed in on my eyes but I kind of know how to avoid fainting and managed not to. I panicked like a crazy person and went running out the door to see if Martina or Donal was home because I did NOT want to pass out with Jane alone in the house, understandable yeah? Well... they were not there. I didn't want to call Cormac but I was still very faint and the tingling was still going on (although the headache dulled after the near-fainting episode to just a pressure headache). He came home, I napped like 30 minutes and felt ok... still tingling. I hate that I had to have Cormac come home but I had no idea what was wrong and I was very nervous about what could happen. NOW. Just a few moments ago my right ear starting to ring out and I felt very very faint again and recovered. What the hell is going on. Am I dying? I'm going to the doctor in the morning. My head goes through whirls of nearly feel "high" to having a pressure-like headache. I'd rather not die right now, it'd be rather inconvenient to my... living. |
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Wake Up: Didymos Wrap |
Any of you mommas interested in buying a wrap? Eh? Eh? I have to sell my Indio (its so pretty) if I want a new mei tai. And I want a new mei tai. Now just any one, but a sweet ass tettitett. Le sigh. I posted it up on babywearer_sale, TBW, magicmum, and an UK babywearing yahoo group. I hope someone bites! I'd give a friend a discount ;)I got some Grapefruit Seed Extract and I think its clearing up the Thrush. She's gushing snot, though. You wouldn't know it to look at her she is just playing away. She's been very clingy, though. We were out yesterday to get tires on the car and she wasn't in the greatest mood. I was going to pop in to see Angelica but I skipped out. I don't want Jane spreading disease ;) We're going on Sunday to a birthday party for Cormac's friend Keith's son Joe's 3rd birthday (that's a lot of " 's " ...'s). I'm fighting a cold myself but I still managed to get out and do a quick cycle. I'm going further, faster, but I'm frustrated that I'm sick so I can't breathe as well (see, I'm already disadvantaged because I'm asthmatic) and the sun was actually shining this morning. It's not anymore. Ahem. I can remember the hot, humid air that I met with when I came home from Ireland the first time. It's pretty said that I'm looking forward to that feeling. I want to sweat. |
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Wake Up: Jane is getting old, the hag! |
Jane is 9 MONTHS OLD today. 9!! She has mastered two things this past week. Waving (all the time) and... saying "Hello"! She is definitely saying it now. It takes a while to convince yourself they are saying something and sure, she is just mimicking the noise we make when we wave at her, but I'll take that! She's been saying "dada" "mama" "baba" and various other consonant sounds / babbling but this I KNOW is intentional. Anywho. Jane is sick. It's official. Running nose. That said, I have a runny nose as well so it could be the weather. Seems to be the only thing wrong. She hates the nose bulb... if you want to see what a baby looks like when she thinks she is being murdered-- you only have to see me trying to get her to let me suction. I went to Tesco "extra" in Clonmel (25-30 minutes or so from Portlaw) today. It's like, Walmart vs Super Walmart. I just wanted a change. It was nice, actually. If I see a "Sheila's Wheels" advert one more time today I'm going to bash my face into the wall. If you watch UK tv, you know what I'm talking about. I'm learning interesting things about a kosher bakery... you can't eat bugs whole? But, like, pieces are okay? Seriously? "FOR BONZER CAR INSURANCE DEALS, GIRLS GET ON TO SHEILA'S WHEELS!!!!!" *bang* |
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Wake Up: Don't wake ma bay bay! |
I hate when websites play music. Loudly. Particularly baby/baby supplies ones. HELLO MAYBE I'M HOLDING MY SLEEPING KID N MA LAP AND U JUST WOKE HER UP. Sigh. I'm unsure if she has thrush now. Am I hallucinating spots in her mouth? I can't see anything now. Not that she enjoys me taking a peek. Some guy (traveler? probably) tried to sell me pillows door-to-door. Again. Cormac didn't get home early. So, he'll be home right before we have to go out the door to dinner and no cycle for me today. That's okay. I'll do a longer cycle than usual tomorrow and consider today a rest day... should have went this morning but I slept a little bit like a slinky last night and my back/chest were in pain. Cute enough, Jane has started sleeping on her stomach all the time. She actually moved into a position the other day that had her tummy down, on her knees head to the side. Cute.  TEETH! Do you see them? Do you!? :D |
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Wake Up: Holy load of shit: Ben Stein is a twat |
This new "movie" has just been brought to my attention (thanks Kelly)... now I'm not around the states so I miss a lot of things. 'Expelled, No Intelligence Allowed': http://www.expelledthemovie.com/home.ph What. the... Apparently, this shite starts in theaters today. I'm all for free speech, but its scary that something like this will be taken for factual and most viewers (ahem Christians) will walk away self-assured that their "intelligent design" beliefs are solid. Let's look at this in a real way. It's not really about intelligent design. It seems to go much further than that, by dismissing scientists as silly and reaffirming that surely this was all just God's plan. Americans will love it. I can already assume this has been well boasted in my mother's church. I can see the "Florida Baptist Witness" has even written an article in its favor (hey guys, guess what, you are praising someone who is going to HELLLLLLL! Jews don't believe in JESUS! lmao). I'm actual physically angry over this. Luckily, I don't have to write anything about this. Someone else has already done it for me: http://www.expelledexposed.com/ It's all pretty simply. It seems to me all the arguments being made are the same, worn out old horseshit we've heard before. The same arguments that show a complete lack of understanding in regards to science and more specifically evolutionary theory (and that said, what "theory" even truly means in the scientific community). I mean, come on, its Ben Stein. Moron. I mean, this is a man who has the warped notion that the theory of evolution was the reason for the Holocaust. I get the impression that this is covered in the movie Expelled as well. WORN OUT, heard it all before. I'm pretty sure I know Jewish people who believe in the theory of evolution and are not so twisted to believe this sort of nonsense (that evolution supports demeaning various races or ethnic group). So, please, don't waste your brain cells. -------------- In better news, Cormac being the wonderful man he is, insisted we get the kitchenaid. So, this is coming to live with me (I have to lug it back with me from the states but its so, so worth it):  Dinner was great. My salad was delicious. Homemade french baguettes to homemade caesar dressing... Angelica's daughter Izabella helped her make a very, very delicious chocolate cake which we devoured. I think Jane really enjoyed playing around the kids. Cormac chatted away with Barry, I think he enjoyed himself. I think its great we've put ourselves out there to try and make friends. They are completely normal people and we get along with them very well. We actually had a meal and discussed politics and religion and were on the same page the whole time, which is a rarity to find here. Their girls are really good, too. We're going to Martina and Donal's for dinner tonight, as far as I know. Should also be nice-- I don't know if its just us or not. We're quite the social butterflies this week. I have brownies and an unfinished bottle of red wine I will bring along. Jane is just bombing around, shes doing a variety of new things... she kind of stands in a pyramid-- so on her hands and feet in a v-shape. She nearly killed herself last night pulling the CD stand down. SIGH. I suppose that we're going to have to remove it from the living room. I had it turned around so she couldn't pull the CDs. I don't think it hit her, but it scared her to death. Lesson learned! I'm making an effort now as well to clean the floor in the kitchen regularly so that she can crawl around in there as well when I'm doing things. I babyproofed the rooms upstairs now too with the exception of the guest room with my craft supplies that I'm determined to get back into one of these days. Glass mosaic tiles and temper paints + baby = bad idea. Did I mention, Jane waves hello/goodbye now? It's exciting. I finally got a snapshot of her smiling with her two teefs showing as well. She's climbing all over Zeppe right now, thankfully he doesn't seem to care or notice. Oh, yeah... and she has thrush. BIG SIGH. I finally figured it out. She has had a stubborn diaper rash (she never, ever gets diaper rash)... and then today I noticed a white spot on the inside of her lip. Sure enough when I managed to get her mouth open I saw another small spot on her inner cheek. Grr! I will pick up some acidophilis but if that doesn't work out I'll just swab her with gentian violet. Since she has the rash, though, I want to get something in her system. I'm not really in pain but I had a soreness to my right nipple that I thought was the after effects of being bit but it may just be thursh. So I get to wash loads of toys in boiling water tonight, yippie! Cormac is home from recording at 3:30. So I'll get in a good cycle. I want to try a new route. I have my computer set up on the bike so I know the distance I've gone and how fast I'm going (which is handy) and now I have a chest belt to keep an eye on my heart rate so I can stay in endurance (ahem, fat burn) zone. Fun times. |
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Wake Up: KitchenAid, you can be mine! |
DO YOU SEE HOW CHEAP THIS IS? I'm okay with reconditioned. The truth is I can't even really afford this right now. But, a girl can lust, yeah? I would like Imperial Gray. My mom has one of these. Except its the insanely ginormous variety. It can only be shipped in the US *sniff*. --------- We're having Angelica and her husband and kids for dinner (the friend I met at LLL) I'm taking some Jamie Oliver steps and doing a chicken caesar salad and I'm also making a side of fettucini alfredo. Should be delicious. It will involve the rubbing of chicken legs with rosemary, olive oil, salt/pepper and baking in a pan with bacon with some chunk of the delicious french baguette that I made last night to crisp up as croutons for the salad. If all goes well I can just rip the chicken off the bone and toss it in the salad. I got the most beautiful and enormous head of lettuce at the Dungarvan food fair so, putting that to use. Be jealous. I also made brownies yesterday but in an attempt to avoid the nasty dry cake-like brownies I made last time I overdid it on the butter. They are still great, though. I don't know why I messed with a good thing... I had made the perfect brownie about 3 or 4 times in a row. Maybe its my ass trying to tell me to stop making brownies. I think I'll make more baguettes today to be fresh for dinner since one loaf got devoured by the time I woke up this morning and I've cut up most of the other loaf to dry out the bits for crouton time. I have to stop talking about food. I need to clean this filthy house before I bring in visitors. I didn't cycle this morning because JANE SLEPT IN! You don't understand what this means. She's been up at 7 (or 10-15 'til) for the last, ever. This morning she slept until 20 past 8. YAY FOR MOMMY, sleep in for me. I can sacrifice for that. I finally figured out the gears so the hills I'm climbing are just a tad bit easier on my quads. I think I need to find a different route to train on. I have some ideas. I just can't be climbing a hill for 2 miles just to turn around and fly back down it (no matter how much fun this part is, I think the cows/horses think I'm crazy because I do lots of yelling "wooohoooo" type things). I have a proper helmet now and a gel seat that is oh-so-much-more comfy. Now if only the gloves I ebay'd would get here. It's too cold for mid-April. It's a bit below 40F. Sigh. |
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Wake Up: Dork time! |
YAY!! I get to try out a desired Grisefanten Mei Tai (one of these sweetass baby carriers: http://www.grisefanten.se/shop/mei-t /mommygeekiness That should hold me over while I decide whether or not to sell my Didy wrap (I never wear it, its too long, and Jane can really wiggle in it) to fund some Ellevill Mei Tai stalking... hmmm. Or Grisefanten stalking! Just wait until you are a trendy mom, you'll understand. --------- Cormac home in an hour, then I get to go for my cycle. Jane is a little trooper. She has bashed herself so many times... I don't know. I'm surprised she doesn't have brain injury. She just leaps into things all the time. It's nothing serious but she has a bruise on her cheek. I swear someone is going to think we're abusing her. She's going to be one of those 'falls out of trees playing Superman' girls. I foresee medical expense. |
| ...leap towards the future | ||
| Take a step back in time... | ||