Our book club is reading Devil in the White City for January's discussion, and I must say, this book is so fascinating! It's a story based on the true tales of two men who lived in Chicago in the late 1800s. I highly recommend it for anyone who loves a good story -- murder, mystery, and a lot of interesting history.
As one of the critics says, I am amazed I haven't already heard the details of this story!
12.31.2007
12.28.2007
Happy New Year!
It has been a whirlwind holiday season for us! I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. Ours was filled with joy and celebration! The day began at 4:09 a.m.
Brendan (after running into our room): Mom, has Santa come yet?
Mom (half-asleep): Honey, I don't know. I'm asleep. But I bet it's still too early.
Brendan: OK, I'll go to the bathroom now.
(Rather odd. He never goes to the bathroom in the middle of the night.)
Brendan (nearly 5 minutes later): Mom, can I go check?
Mom: Oh no, you should go back to sleep in case Santa hasn't been here yet.
Brendan: OK!
Amazingly, Brendan went back to sleep and didn't wake until almost 7:30 a.m. I doubt we'll be so lucky next year!
All of the children enjoyed their gifts. Kelsey received several new outfits, which she desperately needed. Ryan and Brendan loved their new Elephant & Piggie book and Knufflebunny Too. Other favorites: a Knights castle, complete with red dragon; a parking garage taller than Ryan; an assortment of new cars from Cars; adorable new bath towels and rugs; and so many other wonderful gifts.
We managed to arrive at church Christmas morning. and only 10 minutes late! Within two minutes, Ryan was saying (rather loudly), "I wanna go home." He wasn't feeling well, as evidenced by a fever on Christmas Eve. Later in the day, we had a delicious Christmas feast.
After Christmas, our family -- my parents, sister and niece -- arrived from Oklahoma. The kids loved having them around, and having a house filled with guests reminded me of many childhood Christmases spent at my grandparents' or aunts' and uncles' houses. Kylie Jo, as we call my niece, played so well with the children. She's grown into quite a young lady (at the age of 11!).
They left Sunday, so we're starting the New Year on our own. I hope 2008 brings as much joy as 2007 did. Happy New Year!
Brendan (after running into our room): Mom, has Santa come yet?
Mom (half-asleep): Honey, I don't know. I'm asleep. But I bet it's still too early.
Brendan: OK, I'll go to the bathroom now.
(Rather odd. He never goes to the bathroom in the middle of the night.)
Brendan (nearly 5 minutes later): Mom, can I go check?
Mom: Oh no, you should go back to sleep in case Santa hasn't been here yet.
Brendan: OK!
Amazingly, Brendan went back to sleep and didn't wake until almost 7:30 a.m. I doubt we'll be so lucky next year!
All of the children enjoyed their gifts. Kelsey received several new outfits, which she desperately needed. Ryan and Brendan loved their new Elephant & Piggie book and Knufflebunny Too. Other favorites: a Knights castle, complete with red dragon; a parking garage taller than Ryan; an assortment of new cars from Cars; adorable new bath towels and rugs; and so many other wonderful gifts.
We managed to arrive at church Christmas morning. and only 10 minutes late! Within two minutes, Ryan was saying (rather loudly), "I wanna go home." He wasn't feeling well, as evidenced by a fever on Christmas Eve. Later in the day, we had a delicious Christmas feast.
After Christmas, our family -- my parents, sister and niece -- arrived from Oklahoma. The kids loved having them around, and having a house filled with guests reminded me of many childhood Christmases spent at my grandparents' or aunts' and uncles' houses. Kylie Jo, as we call my niece, played so well with the children. She's grown into quite a young lady (at the age of 11!).
They left Sunday, so we're starting the New Year on our own. I hope 2008 brings as much joy as 2007 did. Happy New Year!
12.24.2007
Holiday parties
Brendan's kindergarten class celebrated the holiday season with a party Thursday. Really, it was a regular day disguised with holiday-like activities, with a bonus movie to end the day. I was able to attend thanks to a day off and a helpful, last-minute sitter.
Activities included making a house out of graham crackers, frosting, M&Ms, and wafers; bean-bag toss with chocolates as a reward; ornament-making center; creating snowflake frames; and a fun, thrilling game of musical chairs that was highlighted by Mrs. Benedict's attempt to step over the chairs to stay in the game. She was out, but the children thought she was rather funny.
Activities included making a house out of graham crackers, frosting, M&Ms, and wafers; bean-bag toss with chocolates as a reward; ornament-making center; creating snowflake frames; and a fun, thrilling game of musical chairs that was highlighted by Mrs. Benedict's attempt to step over the chairs to stay in the game. She was out, but the children thought she was rather funny.
Brendan measures oatmeal and glitter for his reindeer magic food.
Brendan enjoys a treat -- ice cream! -- after all of the party activities.
On Friday, we welcomed the Newmans and Galloways for our own children's Christmas party. With eight children ranging in ages eight weeks to 5 years, I wasn't sure we'd keep everyone entertained. But they all seemed to have fun. Our activities: decorating stockings with foam stickers, decorating sugar cookies and eating M&Ms. I think Ellie, Ryan and Cara most enjoyed eating the M&Ms! We also exchanged small gifts. The boys were delighted to get some new Play-doh and accessories. It's kept us busy all morning!
Ryan, Kelsey and Brendan wait with anticipation for our guests to arrive.
The children decorate sugar cookies, baked in shapes of snowflakes, trees, and gingerbread men. Ryan's cookie was most interesting: no frosting but a bottle of green sprinkles dumped on top. Cara (front, right) was most careful with her decorating and created two beautiful cookies.
Ellie (right) decorates her sugar cookie while Kelsey looks on.
Top-rated wines
From the Galloway's wine-tasting party, our scores on a 1-5 scale (with favorites in bold):
- La Famiglia Pinot Grigio: Laura 5; Ken 4.
- Kendall Jackson Chardonnay: Laura 3; Ken 3.
- Zeal Sauvignon Blanc: Laura 3; Ken 4.
- Pacific Rim Dry Riesling: Laura 4; Ken 5. This was a top-scorer for both, but we agreed we preferred the other 4/5s.
- Davis Bynum Fume Blanc: Laura 2-3; Ken 4.
- Anna Bella Cabernet Sauvignon: Laura 3; Ken 4.
- Angeline Red Pinot Noir: Laura 4-5; Ken 4.
- Altos Las Hormigas Malbec: Laura 3; Ken 2.
- Casa Lapostolle Merlot: Laura 2; Ken 3.
- Annie's Lane Shiraz: Laura 4; Ken 3.
- Villa Vitale Chianti: Laura 3-4; Ken 2.
Interestingly, we both enjoyed the pinot wines best. Ken isn't a wine-drinker, but he was surprised that he enjoyed many of the offerings.
12.22.2007
December
This month has flown by, and I haven't blogged about much of it at all! First, our nanny had to quit, forcing us to find someone new. While we search, we've had wonderful help from Ken's mom and my sister. They both have been great and given us much comfort knowing the kids were happy and content while we worked each day.
During that time, we visited Three Cedars Farm with Grandma. We missed Santa but enjoyed playing in Santaland, drinking hot chocolate, eating delicious donuts and taking photos by the tractor.
With Aunt Jen, we attended the children's Christmas party presented by Ken's office. This is an annual event that the kids enjoy so much. Santa brought Brendan a Power Ranger, which was on his top five list in his letter to Santa. What luck! Santa brought Ryan some Hot Wheels and Kelsey a new bath toy. The children were all thrilled.
Ken and I also enjoyed two Saturday nights' out this month. Wow! One evening we had dinner at Deadwood's Bar & Grill in Northville. (A side note: I really shouldn't be linking to CitySearch to describe Deadwood's, as they are officially our competition. The Detroit Free Press will venture into a new world in March as we launch our own MetroMix site. Look for it in your city or one that you're visiting soon.) Though their specialty is game, they had plenty more to offer. I enjoyed pork chops and Ken loved the ribs. The second evening we attended a wine-tasting party at our friends' Suzanne and Gary. We tried some great wines, and even Ken -- more of a beer drinker -- said he enjoyed a couple. (More on this later.) There were 11 couples attending, so it was a great evening to chat, relax and try new wines without little ones running wild.
Grandma and Brendan walk to school on a snowy day. It's been very cold here lately! We had 8-10 inches of snow last weekend, though it's finally starting to melt.
During that time, we visited Three Cedars Farm with Grandma. We missed Santa but enjoyed playing in Santaland, drinking hot chocolate, eating delicious donuts and taking photos by the tractor.
Santaland is in the upstairs loft of an old barn. It's nicely decorated, complete with Santa's list of "good" kids.
With Aunt Jen, we attended the children's Christmas party presented by Ken's office. This is an annual event that the kids enjoy so much. Santa brought Brendan a Power Ranger, which was on his top five list in his letter to Santa. What luck! Santa brought Ryan some Hot Wheels and Kelsey a new bath toy. The children were all thrilled.
Kelsey didn't mind sitting with Santa, but looked at him with much curiosity!
Brendan shows his disappointment early as Santa delivers gifts to the youngest children first. Sitting next to him are friends Cara (left) and Ellie.
Ken and I also enjoyed two Saturday nights' out this month. Wow! One evening we had dinner at Deadwood's Bar & Grill in Northville. (A side note: I really shouldn't be linking to CitySearch to describe Deadwood's, as they are officially our competition. The Detroit Free Press will venture into a new world in March as we launch our own MetroMix site. Look for it in your city or one that you're visiting soon.) Though their specialty is game, they had plenty more to offer. I enjoyed pork chops and Ken loved the ribs. The second evening we attended a wine-tasting party at our friends' Suzanne and Gary. We tried some great wines, and even Ken -- more of a beer drinker -- said he enjoyed a couple. (More on this later.) There were 11 couples attending, so it was a great evening to chat, relax and try new wines without little ones running wild.
Finally, Kelsey received an early Christmas present for Grammy and Papa last week -- a new highchair cover and tray! Her Prima Papa chair didn't have a "girlie" option, though I'm not sure that's what she would have wanted. But this design gives it a more modern and cleaner look. She certainly seems pleased.
12.21.2007
The excitement is building
Kelsey, though unaware that Christmas is coming, still has plenty of joy to share with us. She discovers something new each day and surprises us with what she can do!This house is full of energy! Age 5 has to be the best for Christmas. Brendan knows just enough to be wowed by the magic, spirit and excitement of Christmas, but isn't old enough to be disappointed or materialistic. He's also quite fascinated by the story of baby Jesus and asks several questions daily.
Ryan gets excited, though the concept of Christmas is beyond him. No doubt, he'll be thrilled when he realizes presents are part of the equation. For now, he likes discovering candy in the advent calendar each day.
Last year, I said that we'd wait another year, possibly two, to watch The Polar Express with Brendan. We gave it a go this week. He earned it -- 10 stars for good choices awarded by Aunt Jen -- and watched the movie with his aunt while the younger children napped one day. He said the beginning was a little scary, but he enjoyed it nonetheless.
The fun won't stop after Christmas for us, either. A day or so later, Grammy, Papa, Aunt Amy, cousin Kylie and maybe Aunt Jenn will arrive after driving from Oklahoma. They'll stay for 4-5 days. We're thrilled, particularly to see Kylie. The kids had so much fun together this summer, and at age 11, Kylie has matured and grown into a fabulous pre-teen. She's helpful, sweet and patient with the little ones. And no doubt, she'll be giving Kelsey beauty and fashion secrets already.
12.18.2007
One more day
Tomorrow is my last day of work before I enjoy a few days off for the holidays. The timing is good, since we're filling holes in child care while we search for a new nanny.
I'm thrilled because it means I can finish final details for the holidays. I'll be cleaning for next week's visitors, planning our Christmas dinner (and other meals), wrapping gifts, checking in with Santa to see if he has everything covered for the Healys, baking cookies and doing tons of laundry.
On Friday, our dear friends the Newmans and Galloways are coming over for a small Christmas party. It's just the kids and moms, but it's a way for us to exchange small gifts and say, "Merry Christmas!" I have a few crafts planned for the children.
My goal, however, is not to stress too much over these holiday preparations. I want to enjoy these days. I almost always get sick after the holidays because I've overstressed myself, but this time I'm going to take many deep breaths.
And that begins now ... Good night!
I'm thrilled because it means I can finish final details for the holidays. I'll be cleaning for next week's visitors, planning our Christmas dinner (and other meals), wrapping gifts, checking in with Santa to see if he has everything covered for the Healys, baking cookies and doing tons of laundry.
On Friday, our dear friends the Newmans and Galloways are coming over for a small Christmas party. It's just the kids and moms, but it's a way for us to exchange small gifts and say, "Merry Christmas!" I have a few crafts planned for the children.
My goal, however, is not to stress too much over these holiday preparations. I want to enjoy these days. I almost always get sick after the holidays because I've overstressed myself, but this time I'm going to take many deep breaths.
And that begins now ... Good night!
12.16.2007
Supporting a friend
Steve and Tyra, our dear friends in Texas, are going through a most difficult time. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers. You can learn more here.
Red, white & blue
The eight colors in a box of Presidential crayons, available at the White House gift shop:
(Hubby was in DC last week for training, and visited an old friend at the White House. She now works for President Bush. She arranged a White House tour and gave each of the children a box of Presidential crayons.)
- U.S. Mint
- Cherry blossom
- Lincoln penny
- White House
- Presidential seal gold
- Monument gray
- Rockets red glare
- Liberty blue
(Hubby was in DC last week for training, and visited an old friend at the White House. She now works for President Bush. She arranged a White House tour and gave each of the children a box of Presidential crayons.)
12.12.2007
Interesting product for nursing moms
If you nurse your baby and like to have an occasional adult beverage, you might find this product helpful. Of course, it's not wise to drink alcohol while pregnant or nursing, but doctors have long said that an occasional glass of wine or beer isn't harmful. (In European countries, women are encouraged to have up to three glasses.) This is one way to find out for yourself.
(P.S. -- I have not used this product. I only saw an advertisement online.)
(P.S. -- I have not used this product. I only saw an advertisement online.)
12.11.2007
Waving and a joyous child
First, Kelsey started waving today. This is noteworthy to me because I haven't a clue when Brendan and Ryan started waving. Maybe it's written in their baby books, but I doubt it.
We were at Pump It Up this afternoon in my attempt to completely exhaust the boys before bedtime. Basically, this place is a room (or rooms) full of inflatables. Lots of fun. Anyway, I was holding Kelsey while we walked around, watching the boys jump like crazy kids. I noticed she kept flicking her wrist and bending her fingers. At first, I thought she was trying to grab her sleeve. But she repeated it several times, mostly when the boys were watching. So I waved to her a few times, and she did it right back.
At bedtime, I told the boys they had to wave goodnight to Kelsey, and sure enough, she waved back!
Second story: Our house has lots of photos of Brendan as a baby. There are a few of Ryan, though not nearly as many. And recently, we've added some of Kelsey (though even fewer of her). So Ryan goes around the house all the time pointing to pictures and identifying who's in them. He apparently tired of hearing me always say, "That's Brendan." So now, every photo is Brendan in Ryan's world, if it's not Brendan.
Yesterday morning, I finally put a photo in our calendar for December. I'm a little behind, I know. I chose an adorable photo of Ryan from our summer visit to King's Island (the one of him with Pablo). His face is angelic! Ryan spotted the photo on the kitchen refrigerator from the other side of the living room. He started screaming with joy, "Ryan! Ryan! That's Ryan!" It's as if he had spent years and years waiting to see one photo of himself in our house. Poor child. I really must get more photos of him around the house.
We were at Pump It Up this afternoon in my attempt to completely exhaust the boys before bedtime. Basically, this place is a room (or rooms) full of inflatables. Lots of fun. Anyway, I was holding Kelsey while we walked around, watching the boys jump like crazy kids. I noticed she kept flicking her wrist and bending her fingers. At first, I thought she was trying to grab her sleeve. But she repeated it several times, mostly when the boys were watching. So I waved to her a few times, and she did it right back.
At bedtime, I told the boys they had to wave goodnight to Kelsey, and sure enough, she waved back!
Second story: Our house has lots of photos of Brendan as a baby. There are a few of Ryan, though not nearly as many. And recently, we've added some of Kelsey (though even fewer of her). So Ryan goes around the house all the time pointing to pictures and identifying who's in them. He apparently tired of hearing me always say, "That's Brendan." So now, every photo is Brendan in Ryan's world, if it's not Brendan.
Yesterday morning, I finally put a photo in our calendar for December. I'm a little behind, I know. I chose an adorable photo of Ryan from our summer visit to King's Island (the one of him with Pablo). His face is angelic! Ryan spotted the photo on the kitchen refrigerator from the other side of the living room. He started screaming with joy, "Ryan! Ryan! That's Ryan!" It's as if he had spent years and years waiting to see one photo of himself in our house. Poor child. I really must get more photos of him around the house.
12.04.2007
How I saved my fridge
That world wide web, it is something special. I bet you didn't know that it's capable of saving your fridge? Really. Seriously. Read on.
The last two days, hubbie and I have noticed an odd smell emanating from the fridge. At first, I thought my nose was hypersensitive because of a sinus infection. Then hubbie noticed the ice from our ice dispenser tasted of this smell. (After a lengthy discussion about the smell during dinner last night, Brendan claimed that his treasured blankies also had this "smell.") Hubbie likened the smell to burning birthday candles. It reminded me more of flat-out burning plastic without the sweetness of birthdays.
So I turned to my world wide web, google.com, in fact. What could my fellow web users tell me about burning plastic in a fridge? The first finding: Some woman explained how her fridge almost caught on fire because of an overheated engine of some sort. Possible. The second finding: I almost neglected to read this one, because she described a Kenmore fridge, while we have a Maytag. But I continued. The writer explained that she noticed the smell of burning plastic, and found glow sticks had fallen in her freezer's defrost heater vent. They had melted into the heater. Hmmm ...
Turns out, as every good American should, we have glow sticks in our freezer! (Don't you know -- that makes them reuseable?) Several of them. Leftovers from our neighborhood party in September. I made hubbie read the two possible issues I had uncovered, and he promptly went to the freezer to discover one red glow stick stuck in our defrost heater vent. We pulled it out before it caused much damage, other than a lovely smell that will take a couple of weeks to eliminate. (The posting also mentioned putting an open can of coffee in the freezer to help with the smell.)
I can't thank that wonderful woman who posted her fridge problem online enough, and I especially love the geniuses at google for making information so darn accessible. My friend, the world wide web.
The last two days, hubbie and I have noticed an odd smell emanating from the fridge. At first, I thought my nose was hypersensitive because of a sinus infection. Then hubbie noticed the ice from our ice dispenser tasted of this smell. (After a lengthy discussion about the smell during dinner last night, Brendan claimed that his treasured blankies also had this "smell.") Hubbie likened the smell to burning birthday candles. It reminded me more of flat-out burning plastic without the sweetness of birthdays.
So I turned to my world wide web, google.com, in fact. What could my fellow web users tell me about burning plastic in a fridge? The first finding: Some woman explained how her fridge almost caught on fire because of an overheated engine of some sort. Possible. The second finding: I almost neglected to read this one, because she described a Kenmore fridge, while we have a Maytag. But I continued. The writer explained that she noticed the smell of burning plastic, and found glow sticks had fallen in her freezer's defrost heater vent. They had melted into the heater. Hmmm ...
Turns out, as every good American should, we have glow sticks in our freezer! (Don't you know -- that makes them reuseable?) Several of them. Leftovers from our neighborhood party in September. I made hubbie read the two possible issues I had uncovered, and he promptly went to the freezer to discover one red glow stick stuck in our defrost heater vent. We pulled it out before it caused much damage, other than a lovely smell that will take a couple of weeks to eliminate. (The posting also mentioned putting an open can of coffee in the freezer to help with the smell.)
I can't thank that wonderful woman who posted her fridge problem online enough, and I especially love the geniuses at google for making information so darn accessible. My friend, the world wide web.
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