MIA for good reason

December has not been kind to me.

My cat died, there were two more deaths that touched our friends and family and I found out my newspaper went up for sale.

This post is related to the last item. I wrote a bio for IWantMyRocky.com. See it by clicking here.

Suffice it to say, I don't think I'll be around here for a while. Meantime, I hope everyone has a great holiday this year! I'm going to enjoy my Christmas, the second one with little B.!

A favorite

This has always been one of my favorite cartoons. I think about it every year around this time (and especially after partially watching Rudolph on TV).

Miss you, Gabby

We had our beloved cat of 7 years euthanized today. I know I'll miss her when I walk in the door tonight. She always greeted me with a little chirpy meow. Clicking on the topics, you can see past posts about her hiding tactics, penchant for golf clubs and role as a big sister.


In our room, cuddling up like she used to do.


Being a big sister, and one who's never far away from the camera.


Showing B. what a cat's tail looks like!


Making sure Mom carefully trims the nails.


When I was sick with mastitis for the first time, she stayed by my side.


She always loved to sit in B.'s rocking chair. I would get mad at her for it, but I think she did it to be closer to her "little" brother.


Remember what I said about the camera? She also always played nice with B.'s friends.


Caught her one night napping in B.'s bouncy chair.


She looked too cute to move.


I think these were her last few healthy days in September.


Always guarding B.'s toys after he went to sleep at night.


Of course, always inquisitive.


Always willing to cuddle on a cold day made for hot tea, a good book and quilts.


Oh, Gabby, we miss you so much.


We were lucky to have you with us for 7 years.


Now big sister Booty will relearn what it's like to be the only kitty at home.




But I'm sure she'll miss cozying up to her sometimes-annoying but always lovable little sis!


Dream some sweet kitty dreams!

Nothin' Like a Dame

B. loved watching the number from South Pacific "There Is Nothin' Like A Dame" as we watched the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade over at Nana's house.

Kid stared at the TV, barely breathing. It was so cute. He loves musicals, just like his mommy.

True meaning

I’ve been thinking a while about change.

Because of this, I’m tweaking my outlook. A change of attitude, if you will. With so many unfortunate events crossing more of our paths these days, I decided I would truly be thankful for what I have. Too often, I/we/society takes for granted the things that are right before our eyes. All too often, it takes a great event to reprioritize our thoughts. I'm trying to do that without the big event (unless you count Thanksgiving).

So here is my list of things I am thankful for.

My family – To my husband and our beautiful son: I don’t know how I’d get through a day without you. I try to focus each day on something I can do for each of you to make your day brighter, better. And while I might not always succeed, thanks for letting me try.

My extended family – Mom, Dad, M. and the rest of my relatives! You always give me so much support, I don’t think I could be who I am without giving at least some credit to all of you.

My job – I am quite thankful I can come to work week after week and collect that check week after week. While I’d love to be a stay-at-home mom (SAHM), right now this works. Years ago, I never thought I’d want to give up my career, but after being a mommy, I realize how painful it is to leave a child every day. Thankfully, C. and I never have put B. in day care. One of us has been with him every day of his life. My career and C.’s willingness to be a seasonal SAHD has made this possible.

My health – Just like many people I know, I complain about my appearance, but that’s nothing compared with a person who cannot see. Or cannot hear. Or cannot walk. I am thankful for my eyes, ears, arms and legs. (Legs that should make me work a few miles on the elliptical machine more often.)

My friends – You know who you are. And I thank you, too, for the support over the years. Whenever I am “lost” or don’t know how to approach a certain obstacle, you have always come through for me. Thanks for the laughs, too.

So as you’re all celebrating Thanksgiving now or during this holiday weekend, please write a mental list of the things you’re truly thankful for. I’m sure you have already.

A very Happy Thanksgiving to you!

Where dance and sports collide

After watching the finale of Dancing With The Stars, I was talking with some of my colleagues about this little skit.

It's definitely worth a laugh, especially if you ever watched SportsCenter.

To my hubby

Happy anniversary!

Love, Doe

Seriously Motrin?

I tell you one brand name I won't be buying anytime soon - Motrin.

The company made this ad - which negatively portrays babywearing. It even pokes fun at the fact it can be a real "bonding experience." Seriously?

I loved wearing B. in a sling when he was little. He was relaxed, he napped, stayed warm and I was able to get even more one-on-one time with him. Now, I can wear him in a front carrier - not for too long, mind you, but I still do it from time to time. I can't believe a major company is trying to get moms to stop doing this.

It's bad enough some formula companies are trying to steer mothers away from breastfeeding.

As for Motrin, I'd really like to see them defend this one. If there's one thing I have learned, it is don't piss off a bunch of mommies.

1 year old

Dearest B.,

This is the second draft of your 1-year-old letter. I have too much to say and I'm at a loss for the words to say it, so let me start by congratulating you on your first year. Happy birthday my sweet prince.

You have made so many strides since I last wrote you a letter from my heart -- I really don't know how I can fit it all it.

First, you are such a handsome, big, growing young man! You communicate with us through words, sign, emotions and body language. We still don't quite get all that you are trying to convey, but we're all getting the hang of it. You have no problem voicing displeasure (you little headbanger, you!) or delight (screams/squeals/giggles). Physically, you have learned so, so much. You went from crawling to standing to walking (the record so far is six steps on your own). You picked up sign language with gusto, and even though we're slacking on teaching you Spanish, you are mastering your own form of English. But your words everyone can understand are Mama and Dada. I, for one, melt when I hear that.

I don't get all the cuddles I always want, but I am overcome with joy when you crawl or walk to me and give me the biggest, sloppiest, wettest kisses. I can't get enough. You can even blow kisses, even though you do it with the back of your hand. Still, we get the point. The best feeling in the world is when you cling onto me -- my leg, my arm, my torso. I'll never get enough squeezes from you!

Your appearance amazes me. Your hair is long and curly -- sometimes strangers mistake you for a little girl ... don't they see your outfits?! -- your eight teeth are white and sparkly, and your eyes are mesmerizing. They are steely blue/green and see deep into my soul when I look at them. And they sparkle every morning when you wake up, ready to tackle your next big adventure. They look at us for approval each time you discover something new. And even though they do not see me each night before you go to bed, know that I'm thinking of you, working hard for you, since every thing I do now is just for you and our family.

And your energy, hoo boy, it's unbelievable. Nana sums it up the best: You are busy. Thank goodness you don't mind a few tumbles because you've taken your share. We have four baby gates around the house, the cats know to clear a path when you're on the case and there's nothing you can't or won't explore. You're a master of climbing up the stairs, bouncing on the couch and you sure love to dance (wonder where you get that from?!). You also like to throw the kitchen cabinet contents out onto the floor, banging stuff together and making a big ruckus followed by a big guffaw. The untidiness doesn't bother me. Makes me smile every time.

But what I want to say most of all is thank you. Thank you for bringing such purpose and joy to my life. I could not have imagined my life without you one year (and two days) ago, and I know my love for you grows exponentially each day. The reason I was put on this earth is to love you, raise you, teach you to have a good heart, to be a good person, to do good. (I don't mean do well, though I know you'll be the best you can be, but to truly do good.)

Your father and I love you like no other, we would do anything for you, and I never knew that our parents would sacrifice their lives for us until I became a mother. Because I would do the same for you, a million times over.

You truly are my golden ticket.

These three words seem so miniscule compared with the feelings I have, but...

I love you,
Mommy

P.S. If I forgot anything, know that I'll send you a private e-mail. I've already sent a few things your way for you to discover when you're ready. Hugs and kisses, monkey!

Poor mommy

My dearest B.,

Your mother is suffering from ... writer's block!

I have your 1-year-old letter partly written, but I've been back over it, editing it and re-editing it. I've edited it so much I might just scrap the whole thing and start over.

Problem is, I have so much to say, I almost need to write an outline in my head.

On one hand, this is harder than any writing assignment I ever had, but easier than breathing, because when I stare at a blank screen, my fingers can't keep up with my brain, tick tacking on the keyboard so quickly that I lose my train of thought.

And there it goes again.

Dear son

I promise to write your 1-year letter soon. I would do it now, but since I needed toothpicks in my eyes to watch How I Met Your Mother on DVR, it will have to wait until tomorrow, your real birthday, when I can organize my thoughts. Daddy's already been asleep for at least a couple of hours, and I can hear you breathing in your crib on the other side of this wall.

Meantime, we had a great day at your birthday party today, and I can't believe a year ago we were still waiting on your arrival. You were already a week late, and I was in labor for almost 18 hours at this point. You were sure worth it. Every second.

Love you buddy.

I love my veggies

Twice a month on Thursday, we get a special delivery.

It's a box of organic veggies and fruits from Door to Door Organics. We use everything, and I can make B. some purees, salads and other sides for my dinners at work. Truly yum-o.

Gas is $2.19. Sweet!

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The seen

I just drove past a sign on Brighton Boulevard touting

MELO & AI for the Nuggets.

Not so much anymore.

Scary?

Stapleton

The old air traffic control center off MLK Boulevard.

First time

It was B.'s first time hunting for pumpkins, and to be honest, it was my first time for it, too. We also discovered that C. might have carved his very first pumpkin Friday night. (He doesn't recall having done it as a kid.) So notch one down for each of us - we've all done something new this month.



This is the Botanic Gardens at Chatfield. There were acres and acres of pumpkins and gourds.


My mom and I gathered a collection of fun orbs for B. to sit on.


B. wasn't sure what to make of his new discoveries. Little did we know, we'd spend the next 90 minutes walking and crawling through this massive garden.


"Mmmm! Mud pies are the best!"


A little dirt never hurt anyone.


Ride 'em, cowboy!


Our little rest stop in the sun. The grownups overdressed, thinking it'd be chilly when it was sunny and warm. (See the plastic links on the side of the stroller? Those popped off, and they carried his little butterfly bumble bee teether. The one he's had since birth and the one he loves. We still haven't found a new one to replace it! Anyway, that was the last time we saw it.)


All day, he seemed to save his best smiles for Grandma. Probably because she likes to sing songs to him all the time, especially, "Sweet Pea."


After all the searching, we cooled off B. by taking off his shoes and socks. We were at the back of the pumpkin patch and had the stroller filled with pumpkins and gourds.


Back at home, B. found a new form of mischief: crawling underneath the side table and giggling about it.


And finally, he was a good little model and showed off his bottom teeth for us.

Boo

...at the Zoo!

I'm watching the first snowflakes fall. Wild!

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I just saw gas under $3 for the first time in I don't know how long.

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Stealth

Our little boy surprised us this weekend. I caught a glimpse of his lower gums Saturday and two* new, sparkly, white teeth were staring back at me.

When had he been teething? When did they get swollen and finally cut? Why weren't all the rest of his teeth like this?

No matter the answer, we were thrilled. I guess it's too much to ask that all forthcoming teeth arrive in such a manner.

*All his teeth have come in pairs. Now he has eight total.

Sneak peek

Just finished knitting the rib on the front of B.'s new vest.

Perfect Saturday

Cat curled in my lap, mug of tea in my hand, and I'm recovering from a cold while watching it rain.

Self sufficient

My little guy made me so proud last night. Around this time yesterday, I was winding down from work, speed-watching Dancing With The Stars, knocking back a beer and relaxing.

Then I heard a couple of grunts over the monitor. I was wishing, "Please, please, don't wake up!" I knew if he did, I'd have to go in there to soothe him, and it'd be a little harder than if Dad would have since B. knows the milk is right there. With C. having to start work at 6:30, I just held my breath and listened.

I heard him scoot around in his crib, apparently over to his rain forest night light, which he turned on for some music and lights. More moving and grunting while the music traveled over the monitor, but I imagine he was relocating his lovey bear, pacifier and blanket. Then he laid down and put himself back to sleep.

What a champ.

P.S. Tonight when I peeked in, he had one foot propped through the crib slats and was curled up in the corner, just beneath his night light. That thing is awesome.

Tagging

Jenni and Jules tagged me!

Each player answers the question themselves. At the end of the post the player then tags 5 people and posts their names, then goes to their blog and leaves them a comment letting them know that they’ve been tagged and asking them to read your blog. Let the person that tagged you know when you’ve answered the questions on your blog.

10 years ago I was:
1. Working for the RMN, but as a sports clerk.
2. Enjoying life as a college graduate.
3. Enjoying my first bit of real estate -- my little condo in Lakewood.
4. Thinking about where my career would go.
5. Partying. A lot.

5 things on today’s to do list:
1. Pack my lunch for work.
2. Take B. to meet his dad so I can go to work.
3. Do something with the acorn squash and sweet potato on the counter.
4. Clean litter box.
5. Get some rest since I'm sick.

5 snacks I enjoy:
1. Hummus and carrots (nice, Jules, I'm stealing that one).
2. Crackers and peanut butter.
3. Kettle corn.
4. Fruit. Lots of it.
5. Pretzels or chips.

5 things I would do if I were a millionaire:
1. Pay off my house, and my family's houses.
2. Rent an island in Fiji. Or rent the resort we went to for our honeymoon. Children under 16 are allowed as long as the whole place is rented. Yadra vinaka, Fiji!
3. Pad the college fund for the kiddo.
4. Buy a new car. Or the better part of a new wardrobe.
5. Wait, I think I'd buy a new house. We're growing out of ours.

5 places I have lived:
1. Pueblo, Colo.
2. Denver, Colo.
3. Lakewood, Colo.
4. Arvada, Colo.
5. Westminster, Colo.

5 jobs I have had:
1. Firecracker store cashier
2. Dance teacher
3. Gopher at a real estate office
4. Sportswriter
5. Restaurant "assistant" manager/server/hostess/bartender/dishwasher

The rules say I have to tag 5 people: Brooke, Kara, Alex, Tracy, Amy ... YOU’RE IT!!!!

Fish

So B. and I were watching Signing Time this morning, and when the "fish" clip came on, he started saying "Ffffffffffffff" . . .

Then he crawled over to his toy basket, dug through it for a second and happily presented me with his blue toy fish. Clapping, praise and kisses followed. And then he said "Ffffffffffff" again.

Atta boy!

P.S. We spent some time yesterday in the Tropical Discovery exhibit at the Denver Zoo, where I just love looking at the coral reef displays. We stared at anemones, flounders burying themselves in the sand, sea horses, gobys, morays, stingrays and more. It's fun showing B. all the things his mom and dad have seen during scuba trips. I would have lasted longer had my back not ached from carrying B. in the Baby Bjorn. (No strollers in Tropical Discovery.)

"Pre-"

My son just tore the "pre-" entry out of my Associated Press stylebook. I got to him just before he started to eat it.

It's an old edition, 2004, and I'm glad I have a newer one on my desk at work.

Cash register

Stuck in downtown traffic with a camera phone.

Harley helmet

This is why I don't go out often.

Fear

Want to know why I don't have my new iPhone yet? Simply, I'm afraid.

I've been hemming and hawing for the past six weeks about buying one, yet these are the scenarios that have been brewing in my brain.

I'm afraid:

• ...my eyes will pop out of their sockets after seeing the first bill.
• ...I will spend way too much time playing with it. As it is, our phones are a huge attraction to B. Don't need to teach him it's a grown-up's toy he has to have.
• ...I will need/want to have new software for the iBook in order to use all functions of the iPhone properly.
  
• ...I will need/want a new computer for the same reasons. We've been dying for a new computer. After all, the iBook is 5+ years old. Don't need a reason pushing us into that one.
  
• ...I will drop it/break it/lose it or something equally mortifying.
• ...I won't like it or will want my old phone back.
  
• ...I will want out of my cell phone contract sooner than 2 years from now. We all know what life was like before cell phones, but just a few years back, I went without one for an extended period by choice. I liked it. Life seemed less complicated. Also, things happen. What quicker way to trim the fat from your budget than to get rid of a phone? (For those of you saying, "What about an emergency?", I've never needed my cell nor have I been in a situation where someone didn't have a phone I could use.)
  
• ...we'll end up buying two, even though C. likes to keep it simple.
• ...I'll wish I would have stowed that extra money in B.'s college fund or even bought him a fun new toy, or clothes, or saved all the monthly fees for a family vacation.

Does everyone put themselves through this on some level?

Weekend and more

Itching to get up into the mountains lately, I dragged the family up to Echo Lake, outside Idaho Springs, again.

This time, though, B. was on the outside.


One year ago, almost to the day. Some of you said it, but I was crazy to go hiking three-plus weeks before B. was born.



This year, B. happily strapped in the Baby Bjorn.
He still is quite a heavy sack o' potatoes.


My (latest) favorite family photo.


B.'s first encounter with aspen.


I knit him this hat early this year. He's already
growing out of the thing! Time for another.


The photos don't do it justice.


Another of my favorites from the day.


Oops. You can see my shadow in the bottom there.


Last week: B. loves the washing machine. We wash
diapers every other day, and he plops down in front
of the window, mesmerized by the colors and water.


A couple weeks ago: My friend from my old Pueblo job came
back to Colorado to see her family. Her boy M. had fun
showing B. the ropes. But B. didn't dare enter that log!


About a month ago: Keystone, crawling on the velvety smooth
practice green. Very little to get into, but lots of ground to cover.


Hopefully many, many more days like this to come.