Don't worry- this isn't depressing. I've long since gotten over the self pity and anger of being a divorced kid. In fact, I think that growing up divorced has given me the ability to take the presence and/or absence of loved ones in stride.
Let me explain.
I was never with my mom on Christmas Eve and never with my dad on Christmas Day. There was always somebody missing who I wished was there. Nope- this still isn't self pity. Because who wants to sit around feeling gloomy on Christmas? So, you just get over it- enjoy the holiday with who is there and pretty quickly come to the realization that there's no such thing as a perfect holiday and you don't always get everybody you want to be with all at the same time. And that's ok.
So, would I prefer to be with Eduardo on Christmas? Sure. But it's not the end of the world. We had a Christmas celebration before he left and we talked both Christmas Eve and Day.
And do I miss my brother and wish he would have been noshing on Norwegian meatballs and lefse with us on Christmas Eve? Hell yes. But, life isn't always just the way you want it.
Apparently there is/was a rumor going around Linden Hills among some friends of my brother that my whole family was sitting around on Christmas Eve sad and weeping, unable to enjoy Christmas because we missed David. Those rumor-spreaders obviously don't realize what it's like to be part of a blended family- every person at our holiday celebration knows that there's always going to be somebody missing.
Of course we love David and miss David and look forward to the Christmases we can be together again. But, his absence doesn't mean we won't eat delicious food; tell stories about my late Grandpa and his goofy stocking-stuffers; watch Johan try to figure out his new gravel yard boulder smasher toy; laugh at the dog in his new blanket with sleeves; laugh some more; and otherwise enjoy our time together.
In fact, that's just what we did. So lay those rumors to rest, Linden Hills gossipy youth. Divorced kids got the skillz.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Monday, December 21, 2009
Christmas Shopping in the Eastern Bloc
I am home from my Christmas Shopping Bonanza. Johan is at my mom's for the night since she is taking care of him tomorrow and they want to sleep in. Christmas shopping was much less nightmarish than it would have been had I also been responsible for Johan's enjoyment. Maybe it's because there are only 4 days until Christmas, but I had numerous WTF moments:
- There was no Scotch tape at Target. None. I have no idea how I am going to wrap these gifts. There might be some blue painters tape in the basement.
- I stood at the jewelry counter at Macys for a good 20 minutes and no one even tried to sell me anything. I could not find a single person willing to open the case. Finally, I tracked someone down and insisted on an extra 10% discount for my 20 minutes. It should have been an extra 20%. I may write a strongly worded letter to Macys and hope for some more discounts in the New Year.
- The guy at the JC Penney men's clothing counter did not know how to scan a credit card. He sheepishly asked me if I had cash and I said No. He had to call the manager over. I had a $10 coupon so I didn't bitch too much. I mean, poor kid, he works at JC Penney.
- My cousin's daughter likes Barbies so I thought I would get Doctor Barbie or Astronaut Barbie or Trial Attorney Barbie. The only ones at Target were in bikinis. Rows and rows of bikini Barbies. I finally found one in jeans and a shirt that says "Hussy" or "Bee-yotch" or something. How retro of Barbie to no longer have a career. Unless you count hussy as a career. I don't.
And finally...
- The only to/from labels left at Target were one sheet of Disney princess labels. Another woman was also looking for labels and these were the only package left. She didn't want them. They were stupidly expensive and the package is sort of bent and tattered. And I don't know anybody who likes Disney princesses. But I bought them anyway. Everyone damn well better love Disney princesses this year.
The shopping is done, though. I am most excited about wrapping the tiny little trinkets that will go in Johan's stocking: 2-inch Big Bird figurine; an Elmo bouncy ball; tiny-sized Doctor Seuss board books; a yellow shirt; a yellow matchbox car; a yellow tin of M&Ms; striped socks; and some other stuff I can't remember.
Now if only I had some Scotch tape.
- There was no Scotch tape at Target. None. I have no idea how I am going to wrap these gifts. There might be some blue painters tape in the basement.
- I stood at the jewelry counter at Macys for a good 20 minutes and no one even tried to sell me anything. I could not find a single person willing to open the case. Finally, I tracked someone down and insisted on an extra 10% discount for my 20 minutes. It should have been an extra 20%. I may write a strongly worded letter to Macys and hope for some more discounts in the New Year.
- The guy at the JC Penney men's clothing counter did not know how to scan a credit card. He sheepishly asked me if I had cash and I said No. He had to call the manager over. I had a $10 coupon so I didn't bitch too much. I mean, poor kid, he works at JC Penney.
- My cousin's daughter likes Barbies so I thought I would get Doctor Barbie or Astronaut Barbie or Trial Attorney Barbie. The only ones at Target were in bikinis. Rows and rows of bikini Barbies. I finally found one in jeans and a shirt that says "Hussy" or "Bee-yotch" or something. How retro of Barbie to no longer have a career. Unless you count hussy as a career. I don't.
And finally...
- The only to/from labels left at Target were one sheet of Disney princess labels. Another woman was also looking for labels and these were the only package left. She didn't want them. They were stupidly expensive and the package is sort of bent and tattered. And I don't know anybody who likes Disney princesses. But I bought them anyway. Everyone damn well better love Disney princesses this year.
The shopping is done, though. I am most excited about wrapping the tiny little trinkets that will go in Johan's stocking: 2-inch Big Bird figurine; an Elmo bouncy ball; tiny-sized Doctor Seuss board books; a yellow shirt; a yellow matchbox car; a yellow tin of M&Ms; striped socks; and some other stuff I can't remember.
Now if only I had some Scotch tape.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Alcantfalas
Today I received a Christmas card from a 2nd cousin once removed or something.
It was addressed to "The Alcantfala family."
I don't think it was a Deck the Halls and fa la la la la la la la la joke.
I think he just doesn't know our last name.
But that's cool.
It was addressed to "The Alcantfala family."
I don't think it was a Deck the Halls and fa la la la la la la la la joke.
I think he just doesn't know our last name.
But that's cool.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Good to know...
I have become totally addicted to this website. You can search for celebrity political contributions and there is even a ticker that gives you the total dollar amount for certain celebrities and then you can expand to see if they are Red or Blue.
Some are no-brainers. Yep, Tom Hanks and Bruce Springsteen are staunch Democrats. (But seriously, only $12,000, Boss? Come on. What you been singing about?)
A couple of interesting surprises:
Alec Baldwin has donated over $130k to Blue candidates. I guess I will be watching 30 Rock more often .
Don Henley (yep, the very same who sings "Boys of Summer" and "End of the Innocence" has donated over $650k to Blue candidates and causes. Holy shit. Maybe I should buy one of his CDs instead of just periodically checking the radio station featuring the best of the 80s, 90s, and today.
Also, you should know that Amy Grant is only donating to Republicans and the RNC. Disappointing since I was just about to buy her latest CD. As if.
Some are no-brainers. Yep, Tom Hanks and Bruce Springsteen are staunch Democrats. (But seriously, only $12,000, Boss? Come on. What you been singing about?)
A couple of interesting surprises:
Alec Baldwin has donated over $130k to Blue candidates. I guess I will be watching 30 Rock more often .
Don Henley (yep, the very same who sings "Boys of Summer" and "End of the Innocence" has donated over $650k to Blue candidates and causes. Holy shit. Maybe I should buy one of his CDs instead of just periodically checking the radio station featuring the best of the 80s, 90s, and today.
Also, you should know that Amy Grant is only donating to Republicans and the RNC. Disappointing since I was just about to buy her latest CD. As if.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
On Making New Friends
Sometimes I think I don't need new friends. I have some pretty fantastic ones. The one thing about them is that they are all far away. Flagstaff, Jo-burg, Los Angeles, Chicago. I have many minutes on my cell phone plan.
Since moving back to Minneapolis in 2003, I have made a couple friends. We went to law school together and they are great, but I don't see them often and one has a kid just a bit older than Johan so usually our time together is about the kids.
Recently, I have realized I do need some new local girlfriends. There is little I enjoy more than hours of conversation where one topic just seamlessly flows into the next without hesitation or awkwardness. And wine. Wine goes well with conversation.
I have recently spent this kind of time with 2 people- another attorney at my firm and a friendly acquaintance from high school who I reconnected with a few weeks ago at a reunion.
There is something very exciting to me about this- it's almost like when kids first connect with people at a new school. So much to talk about; so much to learn about the new friends; exchanging phone numbers; first play dates. Except we are in our late 20s. And drink a lot of wine.
Since moving back to Minneapolis in 2003, I have made a couple friends. We went to law school together and they are great, but I don't see them often and one has a kid just a bit older than Johan so usually our time together is about the kids.
Recently, I have realized I do need some new local girlfriends. There is little I enjoy more than hours of conversation where one topic just seamlessly flows into the next without hesitation or awkwardness. And wine. Wine goes well with conversation.
I have recently spent this kind of time with 2 people- another attorney at my firm and a friendly acquaintance from high school who I reconnected with a few weeks ago at a reunion.
There is something very exciting to me about this- it's almost like when kids first connect with people at a new school. So much to talk about; so much to learn about the new friends; exchanging phone numbers; first play dates. Except we are in our late 20s. And drink a lot of wine.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Shares
It's official and I can now share this very exciting news. Beginning in 2010, I will be a shareholder of Robichaud & Anderson.
I am thrilled. It is faster than I thought it would happen, but I have already felt as though the firm was "mine" for quite some time and it feels great to have that made official.
Last night at that law firm annual party, Robichaud of R&A announced to our staff that I would become a partner in January, which is why it's now ok to announce in the blogworld.
I have been thinking today about how fortunate I am to love going to work every day. It's a rare thing, I think, to love both the work and the people. Sure, there are rough days and frustrations, but this law firm and I are a match made in...downtown Minneapolis. It feels right and I think the best is yet to come.
I mean, when an annual party ends at bar close with a red hot dance performance by middle aged lawyers, how could anyone ever want to leave that?
So, as of 4 weeks from now, it will be Robichaud, Anderson, & Kristina the Shareholder.
I am thrilled. It is faster than I thought it would happen, but I have already felt as though the firm was "mine" for quite some time and it feels great to have that made official.
Last night at that law firm annual party, Robichaud of R&A announced to our staff that I would become a partner in January, which is why it's now ok to announce in the blogworld.
I have been thinking today about how fortunate I am to love going to work every day. It's a rare thing, I think, to love both the work and the people. Sure, there are rough days and frustrations, but this law firm and I are a match made in...downtown Minneapolis. It feels right and I think the best is yet to come.
I mean, when an annual party ends at bar close with a red hot dance performance by middle aged lawyers, how could anyone ever want to leave that?
So, as of 4 weeks from now, it will be Robichaud, Anderson, & Kristina the Shareholder.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Marketing Ideas
The life of a lawyer at a small law firm involves constantly thinking up new ways to get clients. Recently, one of our more useful contacts terminated and we are on a mission to start 2010 with a strong marketing effort. We've got the traditional bases covered: newspapers; radio; TV (yes, launching a TV commercial in 2010!), and wining and dining classmates, colleagues and others who can be good referral sources.
But, I know that I have some people out there who read this and MUST have some good ideas for creative marketing strategies. Come out, come out wherever you are. Come out of the woodwork - and please, share what's worked for you in your quests for clients. I'm not necessarily even just looking for strategies applicable to law- a lot of marketing I think applies across different industries, so let's hear (read) those ideas.
Go!
But, I know that I have some people out there who read this and MUST have some good ideas for creative marketing strategies. Come out, come out wherever you are. Come out of the woodwork - and please, share what's worked for you in your quests for clients. I'm not necessarily even just looking for strategies applicable to law- a lot of marketing I think applies across different industries, so let's hear (read) those ideas.
Go!
Friday, November 27, 2009
Where Credit is Due
Re: Previous post.
1) It was my wife who pointed out that the creepy wife blogger was thankful for freedom.
2) It was my wife who noted I should be thankful for a lawyer card.
3) She has good ideas. Sometimes I hear them and run with them.
4) My name is Kristina and I am a copycat robotface.
1) It was my wife who pointed out that the creepy wife blogger was thankful for freedom.
2) It was my wife who noted I should be thankful for a lawyer card.
3) She has good ideas. Sometimes I hear them and run with them.
4) My name is Kristina and I am a copycat robotface.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Lawyer Card
On one one of the crazy wife/mom blogs I read, someone yesterday wrote she was thankful for "Freedom." No explanation. Now. I am not religious and I think the closest thing I have to a holy text would be the Bill of Rights. So, believe me, I am not dissin' freedom. But what does it mean to just say you're thankful for freedom?
There's freedom of the press. There's freedom of religion/irreligion. There's the presumption of innocence. The freedom from unreasonable searches and seizures. There's the right to a jury trial. The right to confront witnesses. The right to NOT be a witness against oneself. I don't know if crazy wife/mom blogger meant any or all of those things. Maybe she meant the freedom to have a traditional marriage and make babies. Whatever.
My brother is, in a very literal way, not free right now. I visited him yesterday. There was a huge line of people to visit loved ones yesterday morning because of an institutional policy to not allow any visitors on holidays. They were lined up for the chance to spend 15 minutes talking to their loved ones through glass on telephones. And I bet they were thankful for the chance to do that.
I, however, felt so fortunate as I entered the facility with no wait time, presented my driver's license and bar admission card. The deputy verified my identity and handed me a pass stamped "contact." Seven red letters that meant I got to wrap my arms around my brother, hold his hand while we were talking, and squeeze him extra tight for Thanksgiving.
When I left my visit, my heart felt heavy. Missing my brother. Sad for my family. Sad for other families that are not together.
But then I realized we are damn lucky. I wouldn't be surprised if my brother was the only one in the whole institution who got to hug his sister yesterday. Yep, this year we are, indeed, thankful for the lawyer card.
Oh, and freedom.
There's freedom of the press. There's freedom of religion/irreligion. There's the presumption of innocence. The freedom from unreasonable searches and seizures. There's the right to a jury trial. The right to confront witnesses. The right to NOT be a witness against oneself. I don't know if crazy wife/mom blogger meant any or all of those things. Maybe she meant the freedom to have a traditional marriage and make babies. Whatever.
My brother is, in a very literal way, not free right now. I visited him yesterday. There was a huge line of people to visit loved ones yesterday morning because of an institutional policy to not allow any visitors on holidays. They were lined up for the chance to spend 15 minutes talking to their loved ones through glass on telephones. And I bet they were thankful for the chance to do that.
I, however, felt so fortunate as I entered the facility with no wait time, presented my driver's license and bar admission card. The deputy verified my identity and handed me a pass stamped "contact." Seven red letters that meant I got to wrap my arms around my brother, hold his hand while we were talking, and squeeze him extra tight for Thanksgiving.
When I left my visit, my heart felt heavy. Missing my brother. Sad for my family. Sad for other families that are not together.
But then I realized we are damn lucky. I wouldn't be surprised if my brother was the only one in the whole institution who got to hug his sister yesterday. Yep, this year we are, indeed, thankful for the lawyer card.
Oh, and freedom.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
2 years
I don't know how to link back to posts, but if I did, I would send you back to November 15, 2007. Or whenever Sarah logged into my blog and posted pictures of my new baby, Johan.
I spend a lot of time rejecting parenting norms. For example, I drank 2 glasses of wine while 7 months pregnant after just passing the bar exam. Johan has been eating peanuts since he was 9 months old. I don't really censor my language around Johan- they're not bad words; just grown-up words. You get the idea.
BUT.
There's one thing about being Johan's mom that I am pretty sure is just as cliche as hell. Tonight, while I rocked the birthday boy, my sweet 2-year-old to sleep, I started thinking back to two years ago tonight. To the first time I laid eyes on my child. To the first time I held him in my arms. To the first time his tiny hand wrapped around my finger. While I was remembering all this tonight, I had to acknowledge the expansiveness of my love for him. It's pretty fucking incredible.
See?
I spend a lot of time rejecting parenting norms. For example, I drank 2 glasses of wine while 7 months pregnant after just passing the bar exam. Johan has been eating peanuts since he was 9 months old. I don't really censor my language around Johan- they're not bad words; just grown-up words. You get the idea.
BUT.
There's one thing about being Johan's mom that I am pretty sure is just as cliche as hell. Tonight, while I rocked the birthday boy, my sweet 2-year-old to sleep, I started thinking back to two years ago tonight. To the first time I laid eyes on my child. To the first time I held him in my arms. To the first time his tiny hand wrapped around my finger. While I was remembering all this tonight, I had to acknowledge the expansiveness of my love for him. It's pretty fucking incredible.
See?
Friday, November 13, 2009
CCMB
There is a crazy christian mommy blog (henceforth, CCMB) I read on occasion (read: every day). The CCMB-er is popular and famous for having a sick kid. My wife pointed out that she has more Twitter followers that Ice-T.
Now that's fucked up.
I digress.
She is a loud and proud advocate of what she calls "small government." I assume this means she thinks that school vouchers and/or group prayer are the answers to the problems in public schools; advocates low or no taxes; and thinks poor children should just suck it up and get a (corporate) job if they want health care. I am pretty sure she ONLY thinks the government should be in people's lives to the extent it dictates who people can marry and whether or not they should have to have a child. Since, you know, she knows what God would want America to do.
The past few days, her sick kid has had some great successful surgeries or procedures or whatever to fix his sickness. They left their home in Minnesota where they were getting amazing medical treatment from the top notch Children's Hospitals and flew to Boston where they received cutting edge medical treatment from some of the world's best pediatric surgeons.
Minneapolis. Boston.
Small government? Please. These cities are both bastions of Democratic, left-leaning politics. Higher taxes that create funding for fantastic hospitals, advanced medical research, and the best doctors.
I am happy that the CCMB-er's kid is going to be ok. I am happy for their family that they are able to reap the benefits of the large government they decry. But I really wish they'd think about that next time they think about voting for cut and slash politicians favor tax cuts at the expense of important public services.
Yes, I realize I probably need some public services to break me of my obsession with the CCMBs.
Now that's fucked up.
I digress.
She is a loud and proud advocate of what she calls "small government." I assume this means she thinks that school vouchers and/or group prayer are the answers to the problems in public schools; advocates low or no taxes; and thinks poor children should just suck it up and get a (corporate) job if they want health care. I am pretty sure she ONLY thinks the government should be in people's lives to the extent it dictates who people can marry and whether or not they should have to have a child. Since, you know, she knows what God would want America to do.
The past few days, her sick kid has had some great successful surgeries or procedures or whatever to fix his sickness. They left their home in Minnesota where they were getting amazing medical treatment from the top notch Children's Hospitals and flew to Boston where they received cutting edge medical treatment from some of the world's best pediatric surgeons.
Minneapolis. Boston.
Small government? Please. These cities are both bastions of Democratic, left-leaning politics. Higher taxes that create funding for fantastic hospitals, advanced medical research, and the best doctors.
I am happy that the CCMB-er's kid is going to be ok. I am happy for their family that they are able to reap the benefits of the large government they decry. But I really wish they'd think about that next time they think about voting for cut and slash politicians favor tax cuts at the expense of important public services.
Yes, I realize I probably need some public services to break me of my obsession with the CCMBs.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Shoes!
Today while shopping, Johan saw a pair of white and blue tennis shoes with Elmo on them. Who knows exactly why every toddler is totally obsessed with Elmo, but Johan drank the koolaid and it's too late. Anyway, we bought the shoes in the size he will grow into next. Upon arriving home, he wanted to wear them immediately. It was ridiculous to watch him stomping and rambling around the house in too-big shoes cheering for Elmo. If I was any good at all, I would have taken a video of it.
You'll just have to take my word for it. The boy is a budding fashionista.
You'll just have to take my word for it. The boy is a budding fashionista.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Evidence Lesson
Defense Attorney: Have you had any jobs, other than the ones you've already mentioned?
My Client: Not that I can remember.
Defense Attorney: What about any that you can't remember?
Me: Objection. Asinine. The Federal Rules of Evidence need to be modified to include an objection for asinine.
My Client: Not that I can remember.
Defense Attorney: What about any that you can't remember?
Me: Objection. Asinine. The Federal Rules of Evidence need to be modified to include an objection for asinine.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
I can't stop...
Yoga teaches us to cure what need not be endured and endure what cannot be cured. ~B.K.S. Iyengar
I think this nicely sums up why I am so drawn to my yoga mat in this difficult time. It's not just a work out anymore. It's keeping me sane; and more than just sane, it's allowing me to feel some peace in the midst of chaos.
I think this nicely sums up why I am so drawn to my yoga mat in this difficult time. It's not just a work out anymore. It's keeping me sane; and more than just sane, it's allowing me to feel some peace in the midst of chaos.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Practicing (both Acceptance and Yoga)
A lot is going on right now. I pretty much hate blogs that don't divulge details of what the big stuff going on is. However, I'm pretty sure that everyone that reads this is also someone who I have already shared what I can over the phone or email.
If not, rest assured that my baby, my husband, my job, and my home are just fine.
Nevertheless, there is some darkness in my world right now. This darkness is giving me the chance to practice the principles of Al Anon. To accept what I cannot change. To find peace within myself and celebrate the beautiful things in life. To believe in hope and redemption, even in the face of tremendous heartache.
It's not easy. I am lucky to have a lot of people in my life that can help me to see the good.
I also have found extreme bliss and peace in yoga practice during this time. When I got back into yoga in early 2009, I found the spiritual aspects of it sort of hokey. I loved the work-out aspects of it but that was about it. Without my even realizing, my practice has now expanded into a source of emotional support for me. This Tuesday at yoga, I became so enveloped in my practice that all of the negativity and pain from the weekend melted away. I felt catharsis and sweat mixed with tears of release. When the class ended, my throat filled with a knot indicating tears were not far away. I did not want to leave my yoga mat.
Even though we made a financial decision to limit my yoga classes to once a week, I may need to override the Alcantara Lund financial policy in order to maintain my mental health for awhile. All in favor? I.
If not, rest assured that my baby, my husband, my job, and my home are just fine.
Nevertheless, there is some darkness in my world right now. This darkness is giving me the chance to practice the principles of Al Anon. To accept what I cannot change. To find peace within myself and celebrate the beautiful things in life. To believe in hope and redemption, even in the face of tremendous heartache.
It's not easy. I am lucky to have a lot of people in my life that can help me to see the good.
I also have found extreme bliss and peace in yoga practice during this time. When I got back into yoga in early 2009, I found the spiritual aspects of it sort of hokey. I loved the work-out aspects of it but that was about it. Without my even realizing, my practice has now expanded into a source of emotional support for me. This Tuesday at yoga, I became so enveloped in my practice that all of the negativity and pain from the weekend melted away. I felt catharsis and sweat mixed with tears of release. When the class ended, my throat filled with a knot indicating tears were not far away. I did not want to leave my yoga mat.
Even though we made a financial decision to limit my yoga classes to once a week, I may need to override the Alcantara Lund financial policy in order to maintain my mental health for awhile. All in favor? I.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Yogurt
We are pretty big fans of yogurt at my house. We usually choose Trader Joe's or Light & Fit. However, I prefer savory to sweet and it's no secret that yogurt comes in all manner of sweet flavors. Or no flavor, which only tastes good with lots of honey and granola.
What about savory yogurt? Like the Greek stuff with cucumbers. Flavors I have thought of are: sun-dried tomato; cucumber; leek and roasted red peppers; black pepper and sea salt...hmmm...perhaps these are all just potato-chip flavors. Probably this has been thought of and discarded as gross, but I've never seen it in stores. The closest I've seen are some flavored cottage cheeses (pickle flavored) and yes, it was gross. In my brand of savory yogurts, the cucumber would have to be fresh.
Are there savory yogurts? Should I try to make some? Maybe I'll just eat cottage cheese- unflavored, of course.
What about savory yogurt? Like the Greek stuff with cucumbers. Flavors I have thought of are: sun-dried tomato; cucumber; leek and roasted red peppers; black pepper and sea salt...hmmm...perhaps these are all just potato-chip flavors. Probably this has been thought of and discarded as gross, but I've never seen it in stores. The closest I've seen are some flavored cottage cheeses (pickle flavored) and yes, it was gross. In my brand of savory yogurts, the cucumber would have to be fresh.
Are there savory yogurts? Should I try to make some? Maybe I'll just eat cottage cheese- unflavored, of course.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Berries
Today marked by day for a "free" upgrade of my cell phone. I've been going on 2 months with tape holding the battery of my cell phone into it, and the phone was so far gone that it would drop calls even while I was near a window in my own house. It was time to get a device that can sync with my database at work and my Outlook and so... yes, I now have a Blackberry. Of course, I have really no idea how to use it, but slowly and surely the tech savvies who surround me are guiding me toward a higher level of functioning. And, I am already used to the full keyboard for my wine-infused texting.
Don't worry- just because I have a Blackberry doesn't mean I'm a grown up for real. Tonight at the liquor store, as I was trying to take a bottle (2) of vinho verde from the shelf, I managed to knock a bottle of red wine off the shelf. It broke and covered my suit and some other woman's white pants in its redness.
And, also, don't worry, again- The Blackberry has insurance for the very reason that it is owned by me and I tend to spill wine on things.
Don't worry- just because I have a Blackberry doesn't mean I'm a grown up for real. Tonight at the liquor store, as I was trying to take a bottle (2) of vinho verde from the shelf, I managed to knock a bottle of red wine off the shelf. It broke and covered my suit and some other woman's white pants in its redness.
And, also, don't worry, again- The Blackberry has insurance for the very reason that it is owned by me and I tend to spill wine on things.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Sunday Nightz & Babies
*Warning: This post is mostly about vomit.
Unlike his parents, Johan seems to have a weak stomach. He gets carsick, a sensitive gag reflex, and has had some wickedly disgusting vomity moments in his little life.
Anyway, today about 6pm, Johan suddenly got very quiet and wanted to sit with me and snuggle. This was not bedtime, my suspicions were raised. Sure enough, within about 15 minutes, he had hurled all over me. We spent some time in the bathroom getting cleaned up and near the toilet in case he was going to be sick again. But, just a few minutes later, his energy and color were back, and he was off to play, jump, and kick a beach ball around the house. He's sleeping now, and seems to be fine.
As he was getting sick all over my new-ish green sweater, I realized that when Johan gets stomach sick, it always seems to be on Sundays (other than that time last winter when he had 3-week-long stomach ailment...that was awesome. Right, Sarah?).
What is it about Sundays? Does he know it's the beginning of a new week? Is it his variation of Sunday night anxiety and insomnia?
Is he really just that sick of me after spending 2 days in a row together?
Whatever the case, it's strange that it always happens on Sundays. That's laundry anyway day so it's actually pretty well timed. Thanks, Johan.
Unlike his parents, Johan seems to have a weak stomach. He gets carsick, a sensitive gag reflex, and has had some wickedly disgusting vomity moments in his little life.
Anyway, today about 6pm, Johan suddenly got very quiet and wanted to sit with me and snuggle. This was not bedtime, my suspicions were raised. Sure enough, within about 15 minutes, he had hurled all over me. We spent some time in the bathroom getting cleaned up and near the toilet in case he was going to be sick again. But, just a few minutes later, his energy and color were back, and he was off to play, jump, and kick a beach ball around the house. He's sleeping now, and seems to be fine.
As he was getting sick all over my new-ish green sweater, I realized that when Johan gets stomach sick, it always seems to be on Sundays (other than that time last winter when he had 3-week-long stomach ailment...that was awesome. Right, Sarah?).
What is it about Sundays? Does he know it's the beginning of a new week? Is it his variation of Sunday night anxiety and insomnia?
Is he really just that sick of me after spending 2 days in a row together?
Whatever the case, it's strange that it always happens on Sundays. That's laundry anyway day so it's actually pretty well timed. Thanks, Johan.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Trippin'
We did just get back from a trip to California (unbelievably, Eduardo's first), having spent time in Los Angeles (of course) and La Jolla. The longer I am away from living in LA, the more I miss it and romanticize it.
I miss the phenomenal tacos. There is nothing even remotely close to California taco truck style tacos here. We don't even have a lame substitute like Del Taco. In fact, so much do I miss the tacos that on the way to airport at 9am on Sunday, I made us stop at Del Taco for a few tacos al carbon.
I miss having half a dozen choices for Thai food within a mile of where I live- and having the food be cheap and good. I miss brown rice being available from Asian restaurants.
I miss more than the food, of course. I miss the smell of the trees. Sitting on Roisin's patio on Saturday, the smell of Southern California wafted into my nostrils. And I felt nostalgiac.
Most of all, I miss being surrounded by my friends. It seems paradoxical, but even though I am surrounded by family in Minneapolis and live with a good man and a lovey-dove baby, I feel lonely here sometimes. On the airplane on Sunday, my ribs and diaphragm hurt and I realized it was from laughing so hard with so many of my good true friends on Saturday night. I didn't want that rib pain to go away because it reminded me of how happy I am when I am with them.
Moving to LA is not on the horizon for us. I flirt with the idea occasionally, but it would mean giving up too much. I love being near my family and having Johan grow up knowing his grandparents well. I love having a job where I feel proud of and appreciated for my work. I love always knowing where I am going (within city limits-don't ask me about suburbs). I love seasons.
So, we will continue to travel back to California and I hope to always come home with rib pain.
P.S. Johan pronounces all words ending in -ing all urban style (swimmin', rainin', trippin'.)
I miss the phenomenal tacos. There is nothing even remotely close to California taco truck style tacos here. We don't even have a lame substitute like Del Taco. In fact, so much do I miss the tacos that on the way to airport at 9am on Sunday, I made us stop at Del Taco for a few tacos al carbon.
I miss having half a dozen choices for Thai food within a mile of where I live- and having the food be cheap and good. I miss brown rice being available from Asian restaurants.
I miss more than the food, of course. I miss the smell of the trees. Sitting on Roisin's patio on Saturday, the smell of Southern California wafted into my nostrils. And I felt nostalgiac.
Most of all, I miss being surrounded by my friends. It seems paradoxical, but even though I am surrounded by family in Minneapolis and live with a good man and a lovey-dove baby, I feel lonely here sometimes. On the airplane on Sunday, my ribs and diaphragm hurt and I realized it was from laughing so hard with so many of my good true friends on Saturday night. I didn't want that rib pain to go away because it reminded me of how happy I am when I am with them.
Moving to LA is not on the horizon for us. I flirt with the idea occasionally, but it would mean giving up too much. I love being near my family and having Johan grow up knowing his grandparents well. I love having a job where I feel proud of and appreciated for my work. I love always knowing where I am going (within city limits-don't ask me about suburbs). I love seasons.
So, we will continue to travel back to California and I hope to always come home with rib pain.
P.S. Johan pronounces all words ending in -ing all urban style (swimmin', rainin', trippin'.)
Sunday, September 27, 2009
"Blessings"
Whenever I hear someone say they are "blessed" or "_____ is such a blessing," I cringe. I like the idea of recognizing and acknowledging that I/you/we are fortunate. I think it's important to express gratitude. I think it's important to remember that I live a rich, full life and that I have never wanted for anything- it keeps me from feeling sorry for myself when something small goes wrong. So,some of the sentiment behind talking about "blessings" is fine with me.
But, somehow blessing seems to invoke the idea that God or whatever higher power you care to pray to has chosen you/me/whomever to receive the good things in our lives. And the corollary to that is that God/Buddha/Allah/G-d has chosen us over others who have less or who suffer more. That's the problem I have with the idea of "being blessed." Would a benevolent higher power really purposely choose one person to have all good things at the expense of another person having no good things? And if that were the case, is that higher power really so benevolent? Wouldn't that be better described as sadistic?
In my moments of self-reflection, I do feel so fortunate. I have a loving family, a good husband, a child who is the joy of my life, great friends, a rewarding career, a home, health, food, education, mobility. If I used the word blessing, I would feel truly blessed. Instead, I just feel damn lucky.
Am I making too much of this word? What connotations does the word "blessings" have for anyone else out there?
But, somehow blessing seems to invoke the idea that God or whatever higher power you care to pray to has chosen you/me/whomever to receive the good things in our lives. And the corollary to that is that God/Buddha/Allah/G-d has chosen us over others who have less or who suffer more. That's the problem I have with the idea of "being blessed." Would a benevolent higher power really purposely choose one person to have all good things at the expense of another person having no good things? And if that were the case, is that higher power really so benevolent? Wouldn't that be better described as sadistic?
In my moments of self-reflection, I do feel so fortunate. I have a loving family, a good husband, a child who is the joy of my life, great friends, a rewarding career, a home, health, food, education, mobility. If I used the word blessing, I would feel truly blessed. Instead, I just feel damn lucky.
Am I making too much of this word? What connotations does the word "blessings" have for anyone else out there?
Friday, September 25, 2009
Lawyering
I just finished my second jury trial for which I was primarily responsible. I had the unwavering support of my boss and the indispensable assistance of another associate at my firm, but I was the first chair. And, today while I was delivering my closing argument, I felt a profound sense of happiness and pride at being a lawyer. I love it. I really love lawyering. I love the argument- the theater and the performance and psychology of presenting to a jury. I did not go to law school planning to be a trial attorney. I thought I would be doing criminal defense or civil liberties stuff. This career sort of found me and today I decided that it's a perfect match. We won't have verdict until Monday (or later, but I bet Monday) but whatever the outcome, I know we did a good job. We did the best we could. And, really, what more can you ask for?
Monday, September 21, 2009
A Most Brilliant Boy
Johan is at a just fantastic stage where it seems that each hour he has something new he can do or say. He is so observant; pointing out buses, birds, puppies, pizza, babies, Elmo, and characters from Family Guy everywhere he goes.
Yesterday I was wearing a Vikings t-shirt and he carefully traced each of the marigold-colored letters and repeated the word "yellow." Of course I scolded him that it was not yellow, but marigold. (I did not actually do that- there are enough reasons people need therapy; no need to add icing to that cake, right?) On the contrary, I celebrated his identification and labeling of color so much that he spent the rest of the afternoon pointing out yellow stuff.
His ability to mimic is also amazing- the way short term memory develops and strengthens baffles me. We have been watching this video on YouTube of some people doing a dance routine to an old Stevie Wonder song and, after just a couple viewings, Johan is able to follow along and mimic most of the moves. Absolutely fantastic.
Yesterday I was wearing a Vikings t-shirt and he carefully traced each of the marigold-colored letters and repeated the word "yellow." Of course I scolded him that it was not yellow, but marigold. (I did not actually do that- there are enough reasons people need therapy; no need to add icing to that cake, right?) On the contrary, I celebrated his identification and labeling of color so much that he spent the rest of the afternoon pointing out yellow stuff.
His ability to mimic is also amazing- the way short term memory develops and strengthens baffles me. We have been watching this video on YouTube of some people doing a dance routine to an old Stevie Wonder song and, after just a couple viewings, Johan is able to follow along and mimic most of the moves. Absolutely fantastic.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Lawnxiety
This has nothing to do with lawns. No matter how many weeds grow in my yard (my dad says the difference between people's people and the bourgeoisie is "yard" vs. "lawn"), I don't get anxious. And I also don't usually get anxious about work- even when things are new or difficult or unknown, I enjoy the challenges and get huge amounts of support from my staff and co-workers.
But, for some reason, last week I was experiencing an absurd and inexplicable anxiety about a different kind of deposition I had to take. I have done lots of depositions, but this was a medical one and it had me totally off my game. Nobody was pressuring me; nobody was telling me that if I screwed up, I would be sorry. In fact, I was specifically told that no matter how it went, it would be just fine. But, still I had a pit in my gut for days. I couldn't sleep; I was struggling to concentrate.
Then it started. And BAM. I was in a different mode. It was like the second the deposition actually began, all of my worry and anxiety was hovering outside of the me doing the job I had to do. Afterward, it took me several hours and cocktails to get back to "me."
Now, of course it's fine. I'm fine, but what a lame few days.
And, p.s.: Dear Brain: It would be really cool if you could not be such a freak show without warning. Please relegate your anxiety to doctor's offices and keep it out of the courtroom. Ok? Thanks.
But, for some reason, last week I was experiencing an absurd and inexplicable anxiety about a different kind of deposition I had to take. I have done lots of depositions, but this was a medical one and it had me totally off my game. Nobody was pressuring me; nobody was telling me that if I screwed up, I would be sorry. In fact, I was specifically told that no matter how it went, it would be just fine. But, still I had a pit in my gut for days. I couldn't sleep; I was struggling to concentrate.
Then it started. And BAM. I was in a different mode. It was like the second the deposition actually began, all of my worry and anxiety was hovering outside of the me doing the job I had to do. Afterward, it took me several hours and cocktails to get back to "me."
Now, of course it's fine. I'm fine, but what a lame few days.
And, p.s.: Dear Brain: It would be really cool if you could not be such a freak show without warning. Please relegate your anxiety to doctor's offices and keep it out of the courtroom. Ok? Thanks.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Fruit is good for you.
Maybe it's the cool summer we've had or how busy I've been at work, but I can't believe that today is September 6th. As in, in a couple days we can't even say it's early September.
The end of the summer has been good. We brought Johan to the MN State Fair and he enjoyed the city bus ride immensely. Really a man of the people, he is. Johan also enjoyed the pronto pups and the carousel, while Eduardo of course liked looking at the gallos and other birds and I enjoyed the fine placement of the turkey leg foodstand just outside the bird barn.
Because summer isn't over until it's over (for example, today it's 80 and sunny in Minneapolis) here are couple of recently discovered cocktails worth sharing:
- Blueberry Stoli; club soda; splash of lemonade; blueberries. (or just Blueberry Stoli served up with a few fresh berries)
- Black Cherry Smirnoff and Diet coke. It's like a Mike's Hard lemonade if Mike made hard cherry cokes. You know what I mean?
The end of the summer has been good. We brought Johan to the MN State Fair and he enjoyed the city bus ride immensely. Really a man of the people, he is. Johan also enjoyed the pronto pups and the carousel, while Eduardo of course liked looking at the gallos and other birds and I enjoyed the fine placement of the turkey leg foodstand just outside the bird barn.
Because summer isn't over until it's over (for example, today it's 80 and sunny in Minneapolis) here are couple of recently discovered cocktails worth sharing:
- Blueberry Stoli; club soda; splash of lemonade; blueberries. (or just Blueberry Stoli served up with a few fresh berries)
- Black Cherry Smirnoff and Diet coke. It's like a Mike's Hard lemonade if Mike made hard cherry cokes. You know what I mean?
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Teddy
When I was reading the article at New York Times, I couldn't help but feeling a colossal sense of gratitude. Certainly, I also feel sad, particularly because he didn't get to see all of the (hopefully) great things that are going to happen in the Obama administration. However, how can we not feel such gratitude to Senator Kennedy in light of this (borrowed from the Times online):
"Kennedy, who became known as the "Lion of the Senate," played major roles in passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Voting Rights Act of 1965, the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act and the 1993 Family and Medical Leave Act, and was an outspoken liberal standard-bearer during a conservative-dominated era from the 1980s to the early 2000s."
I mean, geez. These are all absolutely pivotal pieces of legislation. What would this country be like without them? I don't pretend that TK did these things single-handedly, but he wasn't just a sometimes-show-up-to-vote kind of Senator. In a world where Congress gets a sometimes hard to argue with image as a bunch of lazy, selfish, unprincipled, sell-outs, that was sure not Kennedy.
What a life to lead.
"For all those whose cares have been our concern, the work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives and the dream shall never die." - Senator Ted Kennedy.
"Kennedy, who became known as the "Lion of the Senate," played major roles in passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Voting Rights Act of 1965, the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act and the 1993 Family and Medical Leave Act, and was an outspoken liberal standard-bearer during a conservative-dominated era from the 1980s to the early 2000s."
I mean, geez. These are all absolutely pivotal pieces of legislation. What would this country be like without them? I don't pretend that TK did these things single-handedly, but he wasn't just a sometimes-show-up-to-vote kind of Senator. In a world where Congress gets a sometimes hard to argue with image as a bunch of lazy, selfish, unprincipled, sell-outs, that was sure not Kennedy.
What a life to lead.
"For all those whose cares have been our concern, the work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives and the dream shall never die." - Senator Ted Kennedy.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Cheapskate Update and a Photo
Today I spent $20 on a shirt from Marshalls that I really liked. I need more work shirts and am realizing that sometimes you have to spend more than $4 to get nice fitting shirt that is both appropriate for a professional setting and not ugly. I also am still bothered by the Christian spankers, but don't like having the step-by-step instructions as the last entry of my blog.
Instead we shall have this:
We discipline Johan by making him wear a life jacket. With a crotch strap.
Just kidding.
That's what the US Coast Guard says he has to wear when we go on the boat.
Instead we shall have this:
We discipline Johan by making him wear a life jacket. With a crotch strap.
Just kidding.
That's what the US Coast Guard says he has to wear when we go on the boat.
This is what happens when I read crazy mommy blogs...
I have sworn over and over again to not comment, but on a recent post about discipline, I was so disgusted by one of the comments that I couldn't help myself.
Below is what ensued:
Original Comment:
I do believe in spanking…but only in the right way. Before you choose to do this too, I would suggest you seek out what the Bible has to say the process. One scripture reference is this: "Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him (Proverbs 22:15)." The process we use is this:
a. Only spank when not angry, make sure you have had time to cool down, but don’t wait too long. Like Jennifer mentioned, you need to complete the discipline as soon as possible.
b. Get down on their level.
c. Explain to them why they are getting a spanking.
d. Tell them how many swats they have “earned”.
e. Ask them if they understand why they are about to receive their spanking.
f. Ask them to willingly bend over your knee.
g. DO NOT USE YOUR HANDS….we use a rubber spatula. If you think about the power you have in your arm and the pounds of pressure behind your arm, you can apply quite a bit of force and even throw a spine out of wack. The spatula, however, is the flick of a wrist. The spoon or spatula applies a sting, but isn’t going to harm your child if it is done correct and within reason.
h. Ask them to repeat to you again what they did wrong and ask if they understand.
i. Hug your child and tell them meaningfully that you love them, and that you know they can make better choices.
My reply comment:
Kristina 1 day ago
I absolutely disagree. Hitting your child with a spatula or anything else absolutely is never the answer. It only teaches children that using fists, hands, spatulas or whatever else is how you get people to do what you want. I can't reiterate enough what a bad idea I think this is. It actually gives me disturbed chills to read that you do this to your kids.
Crazy #1 reply comment:
We are living in an "Oprah" society that says that spanking is "hitting" (and homosexuality is wonderful, and we are our own God). But the Truth that has stood the test of time is this: Spanking is Biblical. The Bible speaks of spanking over and over again. While some people fall for the new-age belief that the "rod of discipline" was only meant as a metaphor in the Bible, the people who have truly studied the Word of our Sovereign God will discover that it is an actual rod, and that God tells us "Thou shalt beat him with the rod" for "he will surely not die", but rather "save his soul from hell".
Having said that, I have to emphasize that I agree with Janelle's point that it is most important that our discipline (no matter what form in which we do it) should be done in love.
My next reply comment:
Also, saying that a spatula if "done right" doesn't harm a child completely disregards that a child is more than a physical being. Even if the physical harm is minimal and not permanent, the lessons you are teaching will last long and the shame you are purposely instilling can have far-reaching effects. I don't think Jesus thinks you should smack your kids with spatulas.
Crazy #2 reply comment:
Kristina,
I don't think what Janelle is describing here is a meaningless "smack" with a spatula. Clearly, she and her husband have thought and prayed over how God would have them discipline their children and have chosen to spank. Spanking is actually biblical--"Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you punish him with the rod, he will not die." Proverbs 23:13. I believe that spanking is wrong when done out of anger, but when done out of love and correction, as Janelle describes, it is appropriate.
Original Crazy commenter's reply:
Thank you Rebecca for understanding. I really lost sleep over this last night. Obviously I knew I was putting myself out there by boldly explaining our method of discipline, but I hadn't prepared myself for the negative feedback that may come. I wasn't always a believer of spanking, I actually started out parenting saying.."I'll never do that!". It really took a while for me to believe in it, and then only by the researching in books, the Bible, through counseling through our church, prayer together with my husband...did I come to understand it's Biblical backing. It still isn't always the easiest thing for me to do, because my temperament is the peacemaker...don't really enjoy confrontation. It is definitely never done out of anger, but only because I love my children. (on side note, we of course do not spank our 10 mo). It is also something we rarely have to do.
Kristina-I do appreciate you expressing your concern, it is a controversial subject among many people. The things you said, are thoughts that I at one time had myself...and is something I really had to seek truth out on before deciding to do.
--------------
So much more to write. So much more to say. But, as these people apparently think that it's ok to beat their kids with rods as long as they don't die, it seems their mental problems run far deeper than what I am equipped to handle. This is only one of many reasons that organized religion and its followers disturb me.
Below is what ensued:
Original Comment:
I do believe in spanking…but only in the right way. Before you choose to do this too, I would suggest you seek out what the Bible has to say the process. One scripture reference is this: "Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him (Proverbs 22:15)." The process we use is this:
a. Only spank when not angry, make sure you have had time to cool down, but don’t wait too long. Like Jennifer mentioned, you need to complete the discipline as soon as possible.
b. Get down on their level.
c. Explain to them why they are getting a spanking.
d. Tell them how many swats they have “earned”.
e. Ask them if they understand why they are about to receive their spanking.
f. Ask them to willingly bend over your knee.
g. DO NOT USE YOUR HANDS….we use a rubber spatula. If you think about the power you have in your arm and the pounds of pressure behind your arm, you can apply quite a bit of force and even throw a spine out of wack. The spatula, however, is the flick of a wrist. The spoon or spatula applies a sting, but isn’t going to harm your child if it is done correct and within reason.
h. Ask them to repeat to you again what they did wrong and ask if they understand.
i. Hug your child and tell them meaningfully that you love them, and that you know they can make better choices.
My reply comment:
Kristina 1 day ago
I absolutely disagree. Hitting your child with a spatula or anything else absolutely is never the answer. It only teaches children that using fists, hands, spatulas or whatever else is how you get people to do what you want. I can't reiterate enough what a bad idea I think this is. It actually gives me disturbed chills to read that you do this to your kids.
Crazy #1 reply comment:
We are living in an "Oprah" society that says that spanking is "hitting" (and homosexuality is wonderful, and we are our own God). But the Truth that has stood the test of time is this: Spanking is Biblical. The Bible speaks of spanking over and over again. While some people fall for the new-age belief that the "rod of discipline" was only meant as a metaphor in the Bible, the people who have truly studied the Word of our Sovereign God will discover that it is an actual rod, and that God tells us "Thou shalt beat him with the rod" for "he will surely not die", but rather "save his soul from hell".
Having said that, I have to emphasize that I agree with Janelle's point that it is most important that our discipline (no matter what form in which we do it) should be done in love.
My next reply comment:
Also, saying that a spatula if "done right" doesn't harm a child completely disregards that a child is more than a physical being. Even if the physical harm is minimal and not permanent, the lessons you are teaching will last long and the shame you are purposely instilling can have far-reaching effects. I don't think Jesus thinks you should smack your kids with spatulas.
Crazy #2 reply comment:
Kristina,
I don't think what Janelle is describing here is a meaningless "smack" with a spatula. Clearly, she and her husband have thought and prayed over how God would have them discipline their children and have chosen to spank. Spanking is actually biblical--"Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you punish him with the rod, he will not die." Proverbs 23:13. I believe that spanking is wrong when done out of anger, but when done out of love and correction, as Janelle describes, it is appropriate.
Original Crazy commenter's reply:
Thank you Rebecca for understanding. I really lost sleep over this last night. Obviously I knew I was putting myself out there by boldly explaining our method of discipline, but I hadn't prepared myself for the negative feedback that may come. I wasn't always a believer of spanking, I actually started out parenting saying.."I'll never do that!". It really took a while for me to believe in it, and then only by the researching in books, the Bible, through counseling through our church, prayer together with my husband...did I come to understand it's Biblical backing. It still isn't always the easiest thing for me to do, because my temperament is the peacemaker...don't really enjoy confrontation. It is definitely never done out of anger, but only because I love my children. (on side note, we of course do not spank our 10 mo). It is also something we rarely have to do.
Kristina-I do appreciate you expressing your concern, it is a controversial subject among many people. The things you said, are thoughts that I at one time had myself...and is something I really had to seek truth out on before deciding to do.
--------------
So much more to write. So much more to say. But, as these people apparently think that it's ok to beat their kids with rods as long as they don't die, it seems their mental problems run far deeper than what I am equipped to handle. This is only one of many reasons that organized religion and its followers disturb me.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Product Endorsement of a Tight Wad
What did the bird say when it flew over Kristina's head?
Cheap cheap!
Yep, I am cheap. I can be very generous when the mood (or some sort of unexpected flow of cash) strikes me, but when shopping for myself, I am ridiculously cheap. Like, I won't spent $7 on a 1/2 price shirt at Target, because I might be able to get it from the 75% off rack in 3 more weeks. Seriously.
I buy Target brand EVERYTHING, clip coupons and sometimes tear them so the dates don't show if they are about to expire soon, and only buy bras and underwear during Victoria's Secret's semi-annual sale. That's me.
We use Suave brand Cocoa butter lotion -the whole family for hands face and body. It costs $2.88 for a huge bottle.
But, recently I used Sarah's (www.erlignition.blogspot.com) face lotion while trying to minimize my blotchy skin at the cabin. It was Target brand Radiant Skin. Right next to the Aveeno face lotion. It is "proven to even out tone and texture." $10.49 for 4oz.
Gulp.
Totally contrary to my natural inclinations. But I bought some anyway.
And I seriously think it works. I think my skin looks better. Evened out tone! Texture! Is it possible? Am I experiencing a placebo effect? But I really really think it works.
And, I can still be pleased that the Aveeno one costs $15, so I am still getting a deal, right?
Cheap cheap!
Yep, I am cheap. I can be very generous when the mood (or some sort of unexpected flow of cash) strikes me, but when shopping for myself, I am ridiculously cheap. Like, I won't spent $7 on a 1/2 price shirt at Target, because I might be able to get it from the 75% off rack in 3 more weeks. Seriously.
I buy Target brand EVERYTHING, clip coupons and sometimes tear them so the dates don't show if they are about to expire soon, and only buy bras and underwear during Victoria's Secret's semi-annual sale. That's me.
We use Suave brand Cocoa butter lotion -the whole family for hands face and body. It costs $2.88 for a huge bottle.
But, recently I used Sarah's (www.erlignition.blogspot.com) face lotion while trying to minimize my blotchy skin at the cabin. It was Target brand Radiant Skin. Right next to the Aveeno face lotion. It is "proven to even out tone and texture." $10.49 for 4oz.
Gulp.
Totally contrary to my natural inclinations. But I bought some anyway.
And I seriously think it works. I think my skin looks better. Evened out tone! Texture! Is it possible? Am I experiencing a placebo effect? But I really really think it works.
And, I can still be pleased that the Aveeno one costs $15, so I am still getting a deal, right?
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Internetzy-type Question
Labels.
I wish that when I started this blog a couple years ago that I would have put labels on each post.
This is the first one that will have such labels. Is there a quick, relatively simple way to go through previous posts and add labels?
Some labels I think would come up (other than the labels for this post; see below) are: Johan, Food and Drink, Law, My American Life, Cable News (Politics), The Future, 21st Century Bitchfest. How can I add these to my posts?
Is there some kind of "program" I can buy that will scan my blog and add these labels? If I actually add the labels some day when I have nothing to do (or lots to do, but decide to read all 250 old blog posts instead), does that make me a computer programmer?
As an aside, I realize it's been a long time since I've posted any Johan pictures. It's mostly because I put the pictures on facebook, but the blog deserves some of this gorgeous boy too. Here he is doing 3 of his favorite things: yardwork, playing at the park, eating.
I wish that when I started this blog a couple years ago that I would have put labels on each post.
This is the first one that will have such labels. Is there a quick, relatively simple way to go through previous posts and add labels?
Some labels I think would come up (other than the labels for this post; see below) are: Johan, Food and Drink, Law, My American Life, Cable News (Politics), The Future, 21st Century Bitchfest. How can I add these to my posts?
Is there some kind of "program" I can buy that will scan my blog and add these labels? If I actually add the labels some day when I have nothing to do (or lots to do, but decide to read all 250 old blog posts instead), does that make me a computer programmer?
As an aside, I realize it's been a long time since I've posted any Johan pictures. It's mostly because I put the pictures on facebook, but the blog deserves some of this gorgeous boy too. Here he is doing 3 of his favorite things: yardwork, playing at the park, eating.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
I'm not sure
...how to feel about this:
Ventriloquist with puppet on television.
Johan notices and shouts out "Elmo!"
We don't have any Elmo books or videos. He must be getting this from the kids at school. The puppet didn't even resemble Elmo.
What's with Elmo? He's like David Koresh for toddlers. What happened to my little baby boy who loved Snuffy?
Ventriloquist with puppet on television.
Johan notices and shouts out "Elmo!"
We don't have any Elmo books or videos. He must be getting this from the kids at school. The puppet didn't even resemble Elmo.
What's with Elmo? He's like David Koresh for toddlers. What happened to my little baby boy who loved Snuffy?
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Cultured Milk and Memories
Today Johan and I were at Trader Joe's. We don't shop there every week like I did when I lived in California. (Thanks Bad Sarah. You should know that every time I walk into a TJ's, I think of you. Fondly. And black teethily.)
But, I like to avoid high fructose corn syrup and partially hydrogenated oils in food and that is hard to do when buying toddler snacks at the regular grocery store. So, we stock up on non-perishable snacks at Trader Joe's. Cat cookies, Berry walks into a bar, etc. And garlic hummus and chicken gyozas for me.
Today I noticed that TJ's has 1% Kefir, which I haven't had in years but used to buy and drink for breakfast all the time when I lived in the Dominican Republic. I spent most of my time with some British, Swedish and German women and they were all addicted to Kefir "cultured milk." A gross (but accurate) way of saying drinkable yogurt. I bought some today thinking Johan might like it for a snack. We came home and both had a glass of it. He liked it, of course. It's sweet and milky and strawberry-flavored. What's not to like?
And I felt like I was back in the United Nations library with my Euro friends having Kefir and empanadas for breakfast. It's strange how the memory works- that even a food can evoke powerful associations. And make me spend about an hour searching for flights to Croatia to visit my Swedish friend so we can drink Kefir together again. We would probably drink some other things, too, as this is the same woman who introduced me to the Vodka Ciclon.
But they don't sell Vodka Ciclon's at TJ's, so that's why I have to go to Croatia. See?
But, I like to avoid high fructose corn syrup and partially hydrogenated oils in food and that is hard to do when buying toddler snacks at the regular grocery store. So, we stock up on non-perishable snacks at Trader Joe's. Cat cookies, Berry walks into a bar, etc. And garlic hummus and chicken gyozas for me.
Today I noticed that TJ's has 1% Kefir, which I haven't had in years but used to buy and drink for breakfast all the time when I lived in the Dominican Republic. I spent most of my time with some British, Swedish and German women and they were all addicted to Kefir "cultured milk." A gross (but accurate) way of saying drinkable yogurt. I bought some today thinking Johan might like it for a snack. We came home and both had a glass of it. He liked it, of course. It's sweet and milky and strawberry-flavored. What's not to like?
And I felt like I was back in the United Nations library with my Euro friends having Kefir and empanadas for breakfast. It's strange how the memory works- that even a food can evoke powerful associations. And make me spend about an hour searching for flights to Croatia to visit my Swedish friend so we can drink Kefir together again. We would probably drink some other things, too, as this is the same woman who introduced me to the Vodka Ciclon.
But they don't sell Vodka Ciclon's at TJ's, so that's why I have to go to Croatia. See?
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
National Night Argh...
One this night of all nights. This is the night that my abstract ideals clash with the way I actually live. National Night Out. I love the idea of it- a community coming together; building relationships that strengthen the city. But, in reality, I can't bring myself to go. Tonight, as I was getting a massage, I was thinking about why. 2 years ago my excuse was that I would be annoyed by the moment of silence because of the recent bridge collapse. Tonight I realized that it's because the topics of discussion are unlimited. If people would promise to only talk about flowers in their gardens, pop culture, the weather, and their kids or pets, I could stomach it for one night. Even though I hate small talk, I would suck it up for one night.
What I can't handle is people talking about important topics about which they are uninformed or ill-informed. Like, I don't want to hear about how great the Crash for Clunkers Program is because some jackass traded in his 1996 Expedition for a 2009Honda and got $4,500. Right, because a band aid always helps severed limbs. Because paying jackasses $4,500 is a great substitute for the complete overhaul and reprioritization that this economy needs. And maybe the billions this program is going to cost could be the beginnings of a program we fund to make sure that people have health care. Even poor people. Even immigrants.
You know, just for example.
This is how I would end up alienating myself from my neighbors at a block party.
And then they would not share their gardening tips with me when we cross paths on walks or as Johan plays teeball in the yard.
And this is why I don't go to block parties.
What I can't handle is people talking about important topics about which they are uninformed or ill-informed. Like, I don't want to hear about how great the Crash for Clunkers Program is because some jackass traded in his 1996 Expedition for a 2009Honda and got $4,500. Right, because a band aid always helps severed limbs. Because paying jackasses $4,500 is a great substitute for the complete overhaul and reprioritization that this economy needs. And maybe the billions this program is going to cost could be the beginnings of a program we fund to make sure that people have health care. Even poor people. Even immigrants.
You know, just for example.
This is how I would end up alienating myself from my neighbors at a block party.
And then they would not share their gardening tips with me when we cross paths on walks or as Johan plays teeball in the yard.
And this is why I don't go to block parties.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Crazy Commie Cristina...wait, Kristina
Today I had lunch with my cousin for her birthday. She made me drive to the suburbs to go to TGI Fridays. Trust me, you're not missing anything. Gross food. But free dessert. The point is, her husband is a right wing Republican, mainly because they like country music and have a camper. And he lives in a suburb/small town where all the streets start with "K." Kreepy!
She was telling me how she's sick of her husband turning the channel to Fox News every morning while getting ready for work and how she doesn't really think it's *fair and balanced.* So, I gently offered her the suggestion of watching MSNBC. It's Morning Joe with Joe Scarborough, a former Republican Florida congressman. But Mika and Harold Ford and Willie provide some liberal slant and Pat Buchanan is there to hang with Joe. It really is quite balanced. Not like my lover Keith Olberman. But a good morning politics show, indisputably.
And to my suggestion, my cousin asked if her husband would think it was just another "crazy Communist Kristina" idea. It's weird how your cousins in suburbia see you. How somehow living within city limits, voting Democrat, believing in civil rights for all people, attending/legal observing a protest here and there, and adhering to the Bill of Rights somehow makes one a radical?
She was telling me how she's sick of her husband turning the channel to Fox News every morning while getting ready for work and how she doesn't really think it's *fair and balanced.* So, I gently offered her the suggestion of watching MSNBC. It's Morning Joe with Joe Scarborough, a former Republican Florida congressman. But Mika and Harold Ford and Willie provide some liberal slant and Pat Buchanan is there to hang with Joe. It really is quite balanced. Not like my lover Keith Olberman. But a good morning politics show, indisputably.
And to my suggestion, my cousin asked if her husband would think it was just another "crazy Communist Kristina" idea. It's weird how your cousins in suburbia see you. How somehow living within city limits, voting Democrat, believing in civil rights for all people, attending/legal observing a protest here and there, and adhering to the Bill of Rights somehow makes one a radical?
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
More on Money
The spending slashes are working. The money is starting to not run out quite as quickly. I am also catering my shopping list, other than produce, milk, and meat, to stuff on sale. Really, not much difference between Simply Orange and Florida's Natural-so if one is on sale for $3 and the other is $5...you get the idea.
But, money, of course, is never simple. Moira, my college roommate and one of my closest friends, has lived in LA for the 6 years since we graduated from college. She is leaving LA mid-September to move to South Africa. And, well, it's very unlikely that I will be getting to South Africa any time soon. So, she asked me to come to LA for the 2nd weekend of September for her Adios LA Bash (my name, not hers.)
I struggled with this. I really don't want to push my luck with my very generous and understanding employer regarding time off. Eduardo, Johan, and I are also going to be in LA the first weekend of October to visit other friends and for a wedding in La Jolla. That is not going to be a cheap trip. So, you know, disposable income is scarce.
But this is one of my closest friends for 10 years. And I don't know when I will see her again after this. I have no trouble turning away from stuff I might want- clothes, haircuts, waxed brows, new fancy cell phones. But when it comes to a close friend asking me to share in her goodbye; for me to come for one last weekend of roomie time, and then when she offers to split the ticket with me, how can I not do that?
I tend to make financial decisions for "extras" with a litmus test: When I am an old woman, will I look back and think this was money well spent? The answer to that question for expensive haircuts, electronics, or yet another pair of black shoes is probably NO. But a weekend with a dear friend who I may not see for a very long time? I don't think that could anything but YES.
But, money, of course, is never simple. Moira, my college roommate and one of my closest friends, has lived in LA for the 6 years since we graduated from college. She is leaving LA mid-September to move to South Africa. And, well, it's very unlikely that I will be getting to South Africa any time soon. So, she asked me to come to LA for the 2nd weekend of September for her Adios LA Bash (my name, not hers.)
I struggled with this. I really don't want to push my luck with my very generous and understanding employer regarding time off. Eduardo, Johan, and I are also going to be in LA the first weekend of October to visit other friends and for a wedding in La Jolla. That is not going to be a cheap trip. So, you know, disposable income is scarce.
But this is one of my closest friends for 10 years. And I don't know when I will see her again after this. I have no trouble turning away from stuff I might want- clothes, haircuts, waxed brows, new fancy cell phones. But when it comes to a close friend asking me to share in her goodbye; for me to come for one last weekend of roomie time, and then when she offers to split the ticket with me, how can I not do that?
I tend to make financial decisions for "extras" with a litmus test: When I am an old woman, will I look back and think this was money well spent? The answer to that question for expensive haircuts, electronics, or yet another pair of black shoes is probably NO. But a weekend with a dear friend who I may not see for a very long time? I don't think that could anything but YES.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Tony! Toni! Tone!
Is that the 3 brown-boy group that sang "It's your an-iv-er-sar-y-y?" I don't really know. I was too busy listening to Joan Baez in the mid 1990s.
But this is Edo's and my 5 year wedding anniversary. I might be a little bit biased, but I think it may have been the best party in the history of the world. As we were planning the wedding, my dad told me he was surprised I wanted such a traditional type wedding and reception. I told him that there is really no other time in one's life when you can gather almost everyone that's important to you in one room to eat and drink and dance and celebrate. Graduations? Nope, believe me, I've graduated from lots of things.
Anyway, I remember looking out at everyone from the head table at the wedding dinner and realizing that there had never been so many of my favorite people all together in one room. And there probably won't be again. Then, when my dad and I were dancing at the reception, we looked around at the room, and he said he understood what I had been talking about. He "got" it.
I should also mention that it's been a big 5 years. In our fledgling marriage, a law degree has been earned, a house has been purchased, a baby has been born, a toddler has emerged and smacked both of his parents in the face. All awesome, except that last one.
In thinking back to 5 years ago, one grandparent (Eduardo's Grandma) had died just 4 days before our wedding, and 2 grandparents (my Grandpa Lund and Grandma Smith) have died since our wedding.
Anniversaries are interesting to me. Of course, it is fun and great to celebrate the relationship and how we have grown as individuals and as a family, but it's also a time to think about how things have changed over the past 5/10/15/20 whatever years. For good and for bad. For gain and for loss. For better and for worse.
Tonight, I am drinking wine and watching "Grease" on TV. Eduardo is at work. Johan is sleeping. Tomorrow, Eduardo and I will go downtown to stay at a 4-star hotel and raise a glass to the past 5 years. And the next many.
But this is Edo's and my 5 year wedding anniversary. I might be a little bit biased, but I think it may have been the best party in the history of the world. As we were planning the wedding, my dad told me he was surprised I wanted such a traditional type wedding and reception. I told him that there is really no other time in one's life when you can gather almost everyone that's important to you in one room to eat and drink and dance and celebrate. Graduations? Nope, believe me, I've graduated from lots of things.
Anyway, I remember looking out at everyone from the head table at the wedding dinner and realizing that there had never been so many of my favorite people all together in one room. And there probably won't be again. Then, when my dad and I were dancing at the reception, we looked around at the room, and he said he understood what I had been talking about. He "got" it.
I should also mention that it's been a big 5 years. In our fledgling marriage, a law degree has been earned, a house has been purchased, a baby has been born, a toddler has emerged and smacked both of his parents in the face. All awesome, except that last one.
In thinking back to 5 years ago, one grandparent (Eduardo's Grandma) had died just 4 days before our wedding, and 2 grandparents (my Grandpa Lund and Grandma Smith) have died since our wedding.
Anniversaries are interesting to me. Of course, it is fun and great to celebrate the relationship and how we have grown as individuals and as a family, but it's also a time to think about how things have changed over the past 5/10/15/20 whatever years. For good and for bad. For gain and for loss. For better and for worse.
Tonight, I am drinking wine and watching "Grease" on TV. Eduardo is at work. Johan is sleeping. Tomorrow, Eduardo and I will go downtown to stay at a 4-star hotel and raise a glass to the past 5 years. And the next many.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Pinch!
No, this is not another post about Johan's antics. He hasn't learned to pinch yet. But I have. After a couple checks-run-out-before-the-month experiences, I decided we need to cut down on some expenses. However, we pretty much like our lifestyle and don't want to a) quit drinking wine, b) quit having cable, c) or spend the summer cleaning our house.
However, reviewing our expenses, we were able to make some easy changes that I think will make a noticeable difference:
-I called the cable company and threatened to switch to satellite dish, even though I don't think we can because of our front yard tree. Cowering before our mighty threat, the cable company reduced our monthly cable/Internet bill from $120.00 to $70.00. They also gave as twice as many channels, including Soap.net which has old episodes of 90210. And HBO. Uh, awesome. Savings: $50.00 per month.
-I talked to our cleaning person who comes once every two weeks and got a quote for just cleaning the main floor and cutting out the basement (which pretty much just needs to be vacuumed once in awhile. We rarely use that bathroom and it's "Eduardo's bathroom" anyway...). She said she'd charge $50.00 per clean rather than $65.00. Savings: $30.00 per month.
-We agreed to switch to Target brand diapers. Pampers really are better quality, but crap, it's crap. So, Johan, the economy is tough and we all have to do our part. We buy approximately 2 large boxes of diapers per month. Pampers large box is $20.00. Target large box is $13.99. Savings: $12.00 per month.
-I have reduced yoga from 2x per week to 1x per week. I do a treadmill workout when I would be at my Tuesday yoga class. 5 classes cost $60.00. Average monthly savings: $60.00
TOTAL MONTHLY SAVINGS: $152.00.
Not too bad, considering we won't even notice these changes. Except that I get to watch more 90210.
What else are some good cost savings that don't involve huge sacrifices?
However, reviewing our expenses, we were able to make some easy changes that I think will make a noticeable difference:
-I called the cable company and threatened to switch to satellite dish, even though I don't think we can because of our front yard tree. Cowering before our mighty threat, the cable company reduced our monthly cable/Internet bill from $120.00 to $70.00. They also gave as twice as many channels, including Soap.net which has old episodes of 90210. And HBO. Uh, awesome. Savings: $50.00 per month.
-I talked to our cleaning person who comes once every two weeks and got a quote for just cleaning the main floor and cutting out the basement (which pretty much just needs to be vacuumed once in awhile. We rarely use that bathroom and it's "Eduardo's bathroom" anyway...). She said she'd charge $50.00 per clean rather than $65.00. Savings: $30.00 per month.
-We agreed to switch to Target brand diapers. Pampers really are better quality, but crap, it's crap. So, Johan, the economy is tough and we all have to do our part. We buy approximately 2 large boxes of diapers per month. Pampers large box is $20.00. Target large box is $13.99. Savings: $12.00 per month.
-I have reduced yoga from 2x per week to 1x per week. I do a treadmill workout when I would be at my Tuesday yoga class. 5 classes cost $60.00. Average monthly savings: $60.00
TOTAL MONTHLY SAVINGS: $152.00.
Not too bad, considering we won't even notice these changes. Except that I get to watch more 90210.
What else are some good cost savings that don't involve huge sacrifices?
Saturday, July 11, 2009
and then i was born
I am 28 now. Johan just laid down for his nap and when he wakes up, we are heading to my cousin's for some celebration. I've been feeling like late 20s are a time when birthday celebrations aren't quite as big of a deal. Obviously kids birthdays are exciting and fun and over the top. Then, as people grow older, birthdays become reflective and a celebration of aging gracefully and beautifully.
I suppose part of my problem is that most of my friends live far away and my husband works weekends. I didn't even have totally firm plans until 9 last night. Lots of ideas floating around, but nothing confirmed. Then, as Johan and I were playing in the grass this morning, giggling and sharing cheerios, I decided that this birthday isn't less celebratory, just happiness in a different way. A different way that will still include lots of wine and good food.
I suppose part of my problem is that most of my friends live far away and my husband works weekends. I didn't even have totally firm plans until 9 last night. Lots of ideas floating around, but nothing confirmed. Then, as Johan and I were playing in the grass this morning, giggling and sharing cheerios, I decided that this birthday isn't less celebratory, just happiness in a different way. A different way that will still include lots of wine and good food.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
4th of July
Me: (asked sort of tongue-in-cheek): So, what's your favorite thing about America.
David: Diversity. Well, either that or steak.
David: Diversity. Well, either that or steak.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Some Thoughts on MJ and Pop Culture
I'm back in the cable news world. I'm watching a mass of people outside the Apolo theater holding up radios and dancing. It's strange. Keith Olbermann, how I've missed you. Thanks for taking me through this evening.
My first thought when I heard that Michael Jackson died was of him as a little boy. As someone who didn't really get to be a kid, and how that likely set him up for a tragic life and maybe predictably tragic ending. That maybe if he was just playing with trucks and hanging out at the pool when he was a kid, he might have lived a happier life?
I am also fascinated by the way that *we* build famous people up, celebrate them (hence "celebrities), then tear them down and crucify them. Then they die and *we* glorify them again. I don't know that I have any insight into why, but I think it's irresponsible and in some ways, inhumane.
I was out for happy hour with folks from work when one of my paralegals got a text saying MJ had died. On my way home a couple hours later, I turned to B96, which is the main hip-hop station in Minneapolis. I think it has the most street cred among pop/rap stations, know what I mean? Anyway, it's not a station I listen to, but I turned to it to hear what they had to say. They were playing a bunch of old MJ songs, including Man In the Mirror and Black & White. Totally awesome. Then, the DJ started giving some commentary- he pointed out how MJ was the first black artist to get airtime on MTV. How his videos were unprecedented in form, content, and length. He ended by responding to those listeners who were calling MJ's character into question, especially the criminal accusations. He pointed out that he was found not-guilty. An obvious statement, but I'm glad that he said it. Does that mean innocent? I don't know- but that's the justice system we have. Trials, juries, the presumption of innocence. Sometimes the results aren't what people want but it's a pretty phenomenal system and I don't think any of us would really have it any other way.
There are moments in pop culture that remain vivid in my memory. I remember watching the OJ car chase on TV with my mom the night before I went on a church trip to Washington. I remember wearing black to school for 3 days after Kurt Cobain died, even though I didn't really listen to Nirvana. I remember the Challenger exploding on TV at Kindergarten. I remember the phone calls and text messages on Election Night 2008- watching MSNBC and realizing that Obama only needed California and Oregon to win.
I remember singing a version of We Are the World at pre-school. I remember watching the world premiere of Black & White, the MJ video with Macaulay Culkin and all those multi-racial people's head and shoulders during an episode of The Simpsons while laying on the floor in my dad's sun room. While I wasn't a huge Michael Jackson fan, his impact on music is extraordinary and his impact on anyone born in the 1970s or 1980s can't be disputed.
My first thought when I heard that Michael Jackson died was of him as a little boy. As someone who didn't really get to be a kid, and how that likely set him up for a tragic life and maybe predictably tragic ending. That maybe if he was just playing with trucks and hanging out at the pool when he was a kid, he might have lived a happier life?
I am also fascinated by the way that *we* build famous people up, celebrate them (hence "celebrities), then tear them down and crucify them. Then they die and *we* glorify them again. I don't know that I have any insight into why, but I think it's irresponsible and in some ways, inhumane.
I was out for happy hour with folks from work when one of my paralegals got a text saying MJ had died. On my way home a couple hours later, I turned to B96, which is the main hip-hop station in Minneapolis. I think it has the most street cred among pop/rap stations, know what I mean? Anyway, it's not a station I listen to, but I turned to it to hear what they had to say. They were playing a bunch of old MJ songs, including Man In the Mirror and Black & White. Totally awesome. Then, the DJ started giving some commentary- he pointed out how MJ was the first black artist to get airtime on MTV. How his videos were unprecedented in form, content, and length. He ended by responding to those listeners who were calling MJ's character into question, especially the criminal accusations. He pointed out that he was found not-guilty. An obvious statement, but I'm glad that he said it. Does that mean innocent? I don't know- but that's the justice system we have. Trials, juries, the presumption of innocence. Sometimes the results aren't what people want but it's a pretty phenomenal system and I don't think any of us would really have it any other way.
There are moments in pop culture that remain vivid in my memory. I remember watching the OJ car chase on TV with my mom the night before I went on a church trip to Washington. I remember wearing black to school for 3 days after Kurt Cobain died, even though I didn't really listen to Nirvana. I remember the Challenger exploding on TV at Kindergarten. I remember the phone calls and text messages on Election Night 2008- watching MSNBC and realizing that Obama only needed California and Oregon to win.
I remember singing a version of We Are the World at pre-school. I remember watching the world premiere of Black & White, the MJ video with Macaulay Culkin and all those multi-racial people's head and shoulders during an episode of The Simpsons while laying on the floor in my dad's sun room. While I wasn't a huge Michael Jackson fan, his impact on music is extraordinary and his impact on anyone born in the 1970s or 1980s can't be disputed.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Johan the Barbarian
I don't know if it's nursery school influences or just the toddler inability to control emotions and reactions, but Johan has started hitting and kicking. Not fun. When he does it, Eduardo and I look him in the eye and sternly tell him NO, we don't hit. If he does it again right away, then we say NO and place him on a chair for a 1-minute time out. It seems to work for the moment- after the time out he doesn't hit again, until the next time he's frustrated...
Anyone have any other creative solutions to deal with this problem (that don't involve hitting or kicking him back thankyouverymuch.)
Anyone have any other creative solutions to deal with this problem (that don't involve hitting or kicking him back thankyouverymuch.)
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Rated DP
Last night Eduardo and I watched The Changeling. It's that Angelina Jolie is a mom in the 1920s whose kid gets kidnapped movie from last year. It's the first "new" movie I've seen in a long time. It's mostly been catching bits of Wedding Crashers and Romy & Michele on TBS since Johan was born.
The movie was decent, but not awesome, and it made me decide that there needs to be another rating system. I need a warning before watching when a movie features an execution. Since watching Dead Man Walking (which certainly gave a warning in its very title) at the Boulevard Theater when I was 12, movies that deal with the death penalty affect me strongly. It's not even the watching of the execution- I am not a lightweight in terms of being able to see violence on TV or in cinema. It's the feelings that get stirred up me; the disruption of my equilibrium; the physical changes that happen in my body- heart racing and irregular breath. All this doesn't last for too long, but nevertheless an intense reaction.
I can think of a few movies I've seen that should have been rated DP for death penalty, including The Changeling. Another is Chicago (I love the movie and the music, but the death penalty is an over-arching theme and the ballet dancer is actually hanged) and by far the most disturbing one is Dancer in the Dark. When I started watching it, I expected a quirky and cute Bjork-y film. I can't even remember exactly why the execution in that movie happens, but I can recall vividly my physical reaction to it. It wasn't pretty.
Anyway, I need movies to be rated DP- not because I won't watch them, but just so I am prepared.
Also, I just googled The Changeling and I see its original release date was October 31, 2008, just a few days before the election. The last line of the entire film is Angelina saying "Because now I have something I didn't have yesterday- hope." Coincidence? I doubt it. Way to go, Clint Eastwood.
The movie was decent, but not awesome, and it made me decide that there needs to be another rating system. I need a warning before watching when a movie features an execution. Since watching Dead Man Walking (which certainly gave a warning in its very title) at the Boulevard Theater when I was 12, movies that deal with the death penalty affect me strongly. It's not even the watching of the execution- I am not a lightweight in terms of being able to see violence on TV or in cinema. It's the feelings that get stirred up me; the disruption of my equilibrium; the physical changes that happen in my body- heart racing and irregular breath. All this doesn't last for too long, but nevertheless an intense reaction.
I can think of a few movies I've seen that should have been rated DP for death penalty, including The Changeling. Another is Chicago (I love the movie and the music, but the death penalty is an over-arching theme and the ballet dancer is actually hanged) and by far the most disturbing one is Dancer in the Dark. When I started watching it, I expected a quirky and cute Bjork-y film. I can't even remember exactly why the execution in that movie happens, but I can recall vividly my physical reaction to it. It wasn't pretty.
Anyway, I need movies to be rated DP- not because I won't watch them, but just so I am prepared.
Also, I just googled The Changeling and I see its original release date was October 31, 2008, just a few days before the election. The last line of the entire film is Angelina saying "Because now I have something I didn't have yesterday- hope." Coincidence? I doubt it. Way to go, Clint Eastwood.
Monday, June 15, 2009
My Dad
Well, as most of my readership likely knows, my dad is right up there among my favorite people on the planet. My bosses and co-workers could tell you how many times I reference my dad's intelligence, wisdom, and insight on any given day. It's a lot more that once. Believe me.
Today my dad announced that MS has forced him to retire. In my previous post that mentioned his health, that was his diagnosis. While I am angry and sad that my dad has MS, the doctors first thought it was a brain tumor. And I will take MS over a brain tumor any day. I need my dad, and his mind is clear as ever, and much more brilliant than mine.
He announced that he will be done as CEO of Sons of Norway as on July 31, 2009, and this is what the International President had to say:
Dear International Board and District Presidents,
It is with a great deal of regret that I must inform you that John Lund had decided to retire. John feels that his MS is preventing him from performing his duties as CEO to meet the high standards that he has set for himself. John is the type of person who if he can't give a task 110% then he feels he is not doing his job. The job and the energy that it requires has taken a toll on his health. We have indeed been extremely fortunate to have John as our CEO for the past 9 years and before that as Legal Counsel. His leadership skills, his people skills, his wealth of knowledge about Sons of Norway and Norwegian Community, and his great sense of humor will be missed by us all. We retired folks welcome him to our ranks and know he will enjoy retirement as much as we do! John's last day in the office will be July 31, 2009.
John has told me that he will only be a phone call away to answer questions and serve as an advisor for the Interim CEO and the new CEO when that position is filled. I have already put John's number in my speed dial!
I have appointed Eivind as Interim CEO in accordance with the Succession Plan that was updated during our Spring Board Meeting in April. Appropriate agreements are being drawn up.
I am appointing the Executive Committee as the Search Committee for a new CEO. The Executive Committee with Legal Counsel held a teleconference on June 11, 2009. I will be keeping you posted every step of the way.
If you have any question feel free to give me a call.
International President
Sons of Norway
I am sad to see my dad leave a job he was so good at, but these days his energy is limited, and I am thrilled for my Johan that he gets to aprovechar (Spanish for take advantage of/enjoy) more of his Ba-pa's energy in the form of kisses, hugs, walks, and playing.
And I am pretty sure I need to sign up for an MS walkathon. That's a goal for 2010.
Today my dad announced that MS has forced him to retire. In my previous post that mentioned his health, that was his diagnosis. While I am angry and sad that my dad has MS, the doctors first thought it was a brain tumor. And I will take MS over a brain tumor any day. I need my dad, and his mind is clear as ever, and much more brilliant than mine.
He announced that he will be done as CEO of Sons of Norway as on July 31, 2009, and this is what the International President had to say:
Dear International Board and District Presidents,
It is with a great deal of regret that I must inform you that John Lund had decided to retire. John feels that his MS is preventing him from performing his duties as CEO to meet the high standards that he has set for himself. John is the type of person who if he can't give a task 110% then he feels he is not doing his job. The job and the energy that it requires has taken a toll on his health. We have indeed been extremely fortunate to have John as our CEO for the past 9 years and before that as Legal Counsel. His leadership skills, his people skills, his wealth of knowledge about Sons of Norway and Norwegian Community, and his great sense of humor will be missed by us all. We retired folks welcome him to our ranks and know he will enjoy retirement as much as we do! John's last day in the office will be July 31, 2009.
John has told me that he will only be a phone call away to answer questions and serve as an advisor for the Interim CEO and the new CEO when that position is filled. I have already put John's number in my speed dial!
I have appointed Eivind as Interim CEO in accordance with the Succession Plan that was updated during our Spring Board Meeting in April. Appropriate agreements are being drawn up.
I am appointing the Executive Committee as the Search Committee for a new CEO. The Executive Committee with Legal Counsel held a teleconference on June 11, 2009. I will be keeping you posted every step of the way.
If you have any question feel free to give me a call.
International President
Sons of Norway
I am sad to see my dad leave a job he was so good at, but these days his energy is limited, and I am thrilled for my Johan that he gets to aprovechar (Spanish for take advantage of/enjoy) more of his Ba-pa's energy in the form of kisses, hugs, walks, and playing.
And I am pretty sure I need to sign up for an MS walkathon. That's a goal for 2010.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
New York
At the wedding last weekend, an old friend who I hadn't seen since my wedding 5 years ago asked about my plans to move to New York. I didn't even remember that having been my plan, which I told her. She gave me a look like she felt sorry for me. It's entirely possible I read way too much into her face and she was really trying to work a seed out from between her teeth or something. But, the vibe I got was that she saw me as tragic. Ugh.
Digging back into my memory, I certainly remember talking about wanting to live in New York. I love it. I've loved it since my dad first took me there for my golden birthday in 1992. I love the energy- how it makes me feel so alive. I love the anonymity - that I can sit on a park bench in Washington Square with Sarah, Starbucks, and cigarettes, and cry big crocodile tears and nobody walking by even thinks twice about it. And, even when I first started law school, Eduardo and I thought we might move to New York after I finished.
But a lot happened. When my Grandpa got sick in 2006 and died within 6 weeks of finding out he was sick, while at the same time my Dad was having a health scare, it changed my perspective about how far (near) I want to be to my family. If my Dad had been dying, there was no way in the world I would leave him for any job.
Then, in early 2007, we found out I was pregnant. It was earlier than we had planned, but it only reinforced how important it is to me to be near my family. I don't want to raise a kid in New York. I never have wanted that. I don't want to raise a kid without lots of family around. I always felt very lucky to live so close to my grandparents (Eduardo was very close to his too) and to have real relationships with them. When I see Johan start clapping and laughing when we turn onto 42nd Street before my Dad and Ev's house even comes into view, I know we are doing right by being in Minnesota. When Johan leads the way up the stairs and through the hallway maze to my mom's condo without missing a beat, I know we made the right decisions.
This isn't meant to be an excuse. But sometimes plans change. It's not tragic. It's not a pity. It's a fulfilling job; a lovely house; deep true friends; close family; a stable, loving marriage; and the best little bebe in whole wide world.
So, maybe I didn't remember that I was going to move to New York. Or maybe I just had some wine and she was trying to get a seed out of her teeth. Life is long; there's a lot ahead of us and I have a feeling that Washington Square will still be there when I get back.
Digging back into my memory, I certainly remember talking about wanting to live in New York. I love it. I've loved it since my dad first took me there for my golden birthday in 1992. I love the energy- how it makes me feel so alive. I love the anonymity - that I can sit on a park bench in Washington Square with Sarah, Starbucks, and cigarettes, and cry big crocodile tears and nobody walking by even thinks twice about it. And, even when I first started law school, Eduardo and I thought we might move to New York after I finished.
But a lot happened. When my Grandpa got sick in 2006 and died within 6 weeks of finding out he was sick, while at the same time my Dad was having a health scare, it changed my perspective about how far (near) I want to be to my family. If my Dad had been dying, there was no way in the world I would leave him for any job.
Then, in early 2007, we found out I was pregnant. It was earlier than we had planned, but it only reinforced how important it is to me to be near my family. I don't want to raise a kid in New York. I never have wanted that. I don't want to raise a kid without lots of family around. I always felt very lucky to live so close to my grandparents (Eduardo was very close to his too) and to have real relationships with them. When I see Johan start clapping and laughing when we turn onto 42nd Street before my Dad and Ev's house even comes into view, I know we are doing right by being in Minnesota. When Johan leads the way up the stairs and through the hallway maze to my mom's condo without missing a beat, I know we made the right decisions.
This isn't meant to be an excuse. But sometimes plans change. It's not tragic. It's not a pity. It's a fulfilling job; a lovely house; deep true friends; close family; a stable, loving marriage; and the best little bebe in whole wide world.
So, maybe I didn't remember that I was going to move to New York. Or maybe I just had some wine and she was trying to get a seed out of her teeth. Life is long; there's a lot ahead of us and I have a feeling that Washington Square will still be there when I get back.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Bummers and Fun
The bummer is that even though the jury awarded some money, we get zip due to a legal sort of technicality. Bummer. My boss was still pleased with my work and said some really nice things to/about me so that made me feel good. There will be many verdicts, more losses than wins, which is why 98% of cases settle. Even so, it would have been nice to win my first trial. Enough said.
The day after the trial ended, Johan and I flew to Chicago for Michelle's wedding. It was a great weekend spent with fantastic college friends who were either meeting Johan for the first time or re-meeting him in his new toddler stage. There was drinking and dancing and laughing and loving. It was Johan's first bachelorette party and his first slow dance. During the reception of the wedding, Johan absolutely stole the show with his dance moves. He then went to sleep underneath a table for 2 hours while the adults continued dancing. (Don't
This was my first time being a bridesmaid and being so close to the couple during the ceremony is a cool experience. As Michelle was placing the ring on Chris' finger, his hand was shaking. A lot.
I don't think the "audience" could really see that and it was a nice thing to watch. All the love and fun, of course, made the bummer of my Pyrrhic victory a somewhat distant memory.
A couple of post scripts:
1) Be wary when Bad Sarah tells you she knows just where she's going. And try to avoid the Green Line.
2) I had the most amazing mascarpone stuffed french toast in Chicago and learned that is mascarpone, not marscapone. Good times.
The day after the trial ended, Johan and I flew to Chicago for Michelle's wedding. It was a great weekend spent with fantastic college friends who were either meeting Johan for the first time or re-meeting him in his new toddler stage. There was drinking and dancing and laughing and loving. It was Johan's first bachelorette party and his first slow dance. During the reception of the wedding, Johan absolutely stole the show with his dance moves. He then went to sleep underneath a table for 2 hours while the adults continued dancing. (Don't
This was my first time being a bridesmaid and being so close to the couple during the ceremony is a cool experience. As Michelle was placing the ring on Chris' finger, his hand was shaking. A lot.
I don't think the "audience" could really see that and it was a nice thing to watch. All the love and fun, of course, made the bummer of my Pyrrhic victory a somewhat distant memory.
A couple of post scripts:
1) Be wary when Bad Sarah tells you she knows just where she's going. And try to avoid the Green Line.
2) I had the most amazing mascarpone stuffed french toast in Chicago and learned that is mascarpone, not marscapone. Good times.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Bill O'Reilly will never be on MY jury.
I will finish my jury trial tomorrow. One of the things the Judge tells jurors every day before letting them go home is not to watch any news or TV about civil trials and not to do any research about civil trials or court. Fair instruction, yes?
Today during the lunch break I was sitting in the cafeteria eating a make-shift beet salad (the cafeteria had nothing close to warm goat cheese). On the TV in the cafeteria was Fox News. Uhmm...where do they think jurors go during the 2 hour lunch breaks judges tend to grant? Isn't the fact that jurors are being exposed to the ranting and bitching of Fox News commentators enough to get a mistrial or win an appeal (if I lose...please don't let me lose...I hate to lose...) I mean, Fox News can't go more than a couple of hours at a time without railing against Plaintiffs, the civil justice system, trial attorneys, and the 6th Amendment. Cripes, not only do I have to try and overcome all the common misconceptions and prejudices against my clients- now I have to try and undo the hate speech from Fox News that the courthouse is feeding the juries at lunch?
Today during the lunch break I was sitting in the cafeteria eating a make-shift beet salad (the cafeteria had nothing close to warm goat cheese). On the TV in the cafeteria was Fox News. Uhmm...where do they think jurors go during the 2 hour lunch breaks judges tend to grant? Isn't the fact that jurors are being exposed to the ranting and bitching of Fox News commentators enough to get a mistrial or win an appeal (if I lose...please don't let me lose...I hate to lose...) I mean, Fox News can't go more than a couple of hours at a time without railing against Plaintiffs, the civil justice system, trial attorneys, and the 6th Amendment. Cripes, not only do I have to try and overcome all the common misconceptions and prejudices against my clients- now I have to try and undo the hate speech from Fox News that the courthouse is feeding the juries at lunch?
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Updates Etc.
I just bought another can of "Nutri" soda. I don't think it's nutritious but it is sugar free and delicious, and a nice variation from diet coke and water (not together, just my 2 main beverages.)
In other news, last weekend I went to Madison for Sarah's birthday and general merrymaking. It was my first overnight away from Johan and it was just fine. I'd say it was downright fabulous. It was nice to re-experience the me I was before Johan was born. Well, not exactly, because of course he's on my mind quite a bit, but to be able to just enjoy adult time with my friends, uninterrupted by toddler demands. Johan went up to the lake with Grandpa and Grandma, and besides getting carsick and totally grossing everybody out in the car on the way there, it seems like he had a good time too.
Finally, my first jury trial flying solo starts Monday. More on that later. Like maybe when there's a verdict.
In other news, last weekend I went to Madison for Sarah's birthday and general merrymaking. It was my first overnight away from Johan and it was just fine. I'd say it was downright fabulous. It was nice to re-experience the me I was before Johan was born. Well, not exactly, because of course he's on my mind quite a bit, but to be able to just enjoy adult time with my friends, uninterrupted by toddler demands. Johan went up to the lake with Grandpa and Grandma, and besides getting carsick and totally grossing everybody out in the car on the way there, it seems like he had a good time too.
Finally, my first jury trial flying solo starts Monday. More on that later. Like maybe when there's a verdict.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Supreme(ly discriminatory) Court of CA
I haven't read the decision yet, but it upholds Proposition 8 in such a weird way- no gay marriage except for the gays who are already married. Huh? In true conspiracy theorist fashion, I am wondering if the California Supreme Court purposely is violating the 14th Amendment so that the United States Supreme Court will hear the case and make a landmark decision in (hopefully) in favor of equal rights for all. I guess a SCOTUS decision would probably be pretty narrow in this situation- remand and quit being morons CA Supreme Court. This decision just seems such an obvious and plebeian violation of the 14th Amendment that there must be something else going on, right?
Sunday, May 17, 2009
"Nutri" Soda?
Today at the fancy grocery store where Johan and I go to enjoy samples on the weekend, they were serving Nutri.Soda. The flavors were Immunity, Energy, Serenity, Eternal Happiness, Fountain of Youth, Millions of Flowers and Dollars,and on and on. Since they were 2 for 1 and I can't resist a good deal, I bought a few. They are sweetened with Splen.da so calorie-free and are quite delicious - carbonated citrus, black cherry, mandarin. The perfect drink for a warm Spring day (you know, besides Absolut Mandarin).
But, I'm not so sure about the Nutri part. Seems like BS to promise that if I drink carbonated water with artificial sweetener and flavoring, I will experience heightened energy, alertness, happiness. Everyone knows only coffee can do that.
But, I'm not so sure about the Nutri part. Seems like BS to promise that if I drink carbonated water with artificial sweetener and flavoring, I will experience heightened energy, alertness, happiness. Everyone knows only coffee can do that.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
I will bring her water
Today was my grandma's funeral. There's much to say and nothing all at the same time. Maybe another time.
But, the day for me was summed up in a few words my mom's best friend/my godmother said.
My mom was to give a tribute and she forgot to bring a bottle of water. My mom needs a bottle of water with her at all times, no exceptions. So, I called my godmother and asked if she could swing by the gas station on the way to the church. And she said.
"I will bring her water."
And she did. Something struck me about these words- they seem to be symbolic for how much we rely on one another, especially in difficult times.
I felt loved and surrounded today. I think that, for everything she went through in her life, my Grandma always had someone by her side who would bring her water.
But, the day for me was summed up in a few words my mom's best friend/my godmother said.
My mom was to give a tribute and she forgot to bring a bottle of water. My mom needs a bottle of water with her at all times, no exceptions. So, I called my godmother and asked if she could swing by the gas station on the way to the church. And she said.
"I will bring her water."
And she did. Something struck me about these words- they seem to be symbolic for how much we rely on one another, especially in difficult times.
I felt loved and surrounded today. I think that, for everything she went through in her life, my Grandma always had someone by her side who would bring her water.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
The Wrong Order...
That's what my 103-year-old Great Grandma said when we told her that her daughter, my grandma, had died. My grandma died the evening of Mother's Day.
She had been sick and spent the last several months in pain and unhappy. So, in some ways,there is an element of relief--for her sake-- but it's also a sad reality for those of us left here. Especially her mother. That's the thing that keeps making me teary and choked up--that my grandma's mom is suffering this. I think it's fair to say that losing a child is the worst, most painful thing someone can experience, no matter how old you are.
I am grateful that I spent many hours with my Grandma on Mother's Day. I am grateful that I lived 2 blocks from my Grandma for most of my childhood. I am grateful that she saw me graduate from college and law school; celebrated my wedding(s); and was able to spend a year and a half getting to know Johan.
I am grateful that this was our last substantive conversation, on the morning of Mother's Day.
Grandma: Kristina, I dreamed that you and I argued last
night.
Kristina: What about?
G: Opening doors, closing doors.
K: Huh..well, who won?
G: I just quit arguing with you.
K: Oh, so I won.
G: Well, I don't know about all that.
She may not have been a lawyer, but she certainly was able to hold her own in an argument, about doors and just about anything else.
She had been sick and spent the last several months in pain and unhappy. So, in some ways,there is an element of relief--for her sake-- but it's also a sad reality for those of us left here. Especially her mother. That's the thing that keeps making me teary and choked up--that my grandma's mom is suffering this. I think it's fair to say that losing a child is the worst, most painful thing someone can experience, no matter how old you are.
I am grateful that I spent many hours with my Grandma on Mother's Day. I am grateful that I lived 2 blocks from my Grandma for most of my childhood. I am grateful that she saw me graduate from college and law school; celebrated my wedding(s); and was able to spend a year and a half getting to know Johan.
I am grateful that this was our last substantive conversation, on the morning of Mother's Day.
Grandma: Kristina, I dreamed that you and I argued last
night.
Kristina: What about?
G: Opening doors, closing doors.
K: Huh..well, who won?
G: I just quit arguing with you.
K: Oh, so I won.
G: Well, I don't know about all that.
She may not have been a lawyer, but she certainly was able to hold her own in an argument, about doors and just about anything else.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Mama's Day
I try to keep this blog from being solely a baby/kids blog, although as Johan gets older and starts saying hilarious things, that might be hard. Nevertheless, tomorrow is Mother's Day and it's cheesy Hallmark made up holiday, but the idea of celebrating women who care for and mother children is one I can get behind.
Being Johan's mom is something that makes me feel wonderful. To think that 2 years ago I had only recently found out I was going to have a kid, and that I didn't even know Johan is so strange. Since the moment he was born, he has been at the forefront of every decision I make. From casting my vote to deciding if I can go to happy hour after work, Johan is a consideration. I'm certainly not a perfect mom (yesterday Johan cheered when "Family Guy" came on the TV....ee-yee) but I do the best I can, and think that so far, I'm not doing too shabby. Most of all, I feel grateful for the opportunity to raise this child and the opportunity to experience maternal love. It can say that it is true that there is nothing like the love you feel for your child--it is an incredible experience to feel absolute unconditional unwavering selfless love. I wouldn't trade it for anything.
Happy Mother's Day.
Remember this?:
Being Johan's mom is something that makes me feel wonderful. To think that 2 years ago I had only recently found out I was going to have a kid, and that I didn't even know Johan is so strange. Since the moment he was born, he has been at the forefront of every decision I make. From casting my vote to deciding if I can go to happy hour after work, Johan is a consideration. I'm certainly not a perfect mom (yesterday Johan cheered when "Family Guy" came on the TV....ee-yee) but I do the best I can, and think that so far, I'm not doing too shabby. Most of all, I feel grateful for the opportunity to raise this child and the opportunity to experience maternal love. It can say that it is true that there is nothing like the love you feel for your child--it is an incredible experience to feel absolute unconditional unwavering selfless love. I wouldn't trade it for anything.
Happy Mother's Day.
Remember this?:
Sunday, May 3, 2009
May Days and Monkeys
I think I've learned my lesson. I keep trying to bring Johan lots of fun places where he will see and experience new and exciting things. And it keeps being a bust.
A few weeks ago, we went to the Minnesota Zoo. Otters, tigers, camels, monkeys, baby farm animals. Johan's favorite part was the french fries we had for lunch on the way home.
Today was the May Day Parade- a Minneapolis institution. Wonderful puppetry; anarchists on tall bicycles; anti-capitalist floats celebrating life. While Johan enjoyed the drums and other music, I think he had more fun playing with his red kickball in the yard before we left.
Where is the balance between exposing your kid to culture and new things and letting your kid just run around in the yard to his heart's content? I think it's the line between the zoo and May Day. I only brought Johan to the zoo because I thought he would like it. However, we went to the May Day parade because it's something that I really enjoy and because I think it's a wonderful community event. Hence, animal-viewing only for toddler's benefit/enjoyment: NO. Child-friendly community parade that is both visually pleasing and in line with our morals: YES.
Sure, we'll try the zoo again in a few years- once Johan is old enough to enjoy the dolphin show and appreciate viewing animals in a replica of their natural habitat. And we'll certainly be at next year's May Day parade. I do think, though, that we will try to spend most of our weekends this summer just playing. Because that's what Johan likes to do.
A few weeks ago, we went to the Minnesota Zoo. Otters, tigers, camels, monkeys, baby farm animals. Johan's favorite part was the french fries we had for lunch on the way home.
Today was the May Day Parade- a Minneapolis institution. Wonderful puppetry; anarchists on tall bicycles; anti-capitalist floats celebrating life. While Johan enjoyed the drums and other music, I think he had more fun playing with his red kickball in the yard before we left.
Where is the balance between exposing your kid to culture and new things and letting your kid just run around in the yard to his heart's content? I think it's the line between the zoo and May Day. I only brought Johan to the zoo because I thought he would like it. However, we went to the May Day parade because it's something that I really enjoy and because I think it's a wonderful community event. Hence, animal-viewing only for toddler's benefit/enjoyment: NO. Child-friendly community parade that is both visually pleasing and in line with our morals: YES.
Sure, we'll try the zoo again in a few years- once Johan is old enough to enjoy the dolphin show and appreciate viewing animals in a replica of their natural habitat. And we'll certainly be at next year's May Day parade. I do think, though, that we will try to spend most of our weekends this summer just playing. Because that's what Johan likes to do.
Friday, May 1, 2009
brick in the wall.
It's no secret I am frugal (cheap.) We are going to be shelling out a couple thou for a new retaining wall in the next few days. The old wall was cement cinder blocks and literally crumbling down. It looked trashy and unkempt. I don't like trashy. Except for magazines and gossip, but I digress.
I first groused about having to spend money on the wall- I mean, I should be contributing more to my 401k and investing more and I would certainly rather spend the money on a trip that on manual labor and stone. But, it had to be done. Really no choice.
Now the wall is up and it's gorgeous. When I pulled up to my house coming home from work today, I felt excited and proud of our home looks. I still would rather have my 1000s to spend another way, but I certainly can't complain about the new and improved, face-lifted Casa de Johan and family.
I first groused about having to spend money on the wall- I mean, I should be contributing more to my 401k and investing more and I would certainly rather spend the money on a trip that on manual labor and stone. But, it had to be done. Really no choice.
Now the wall is up and it's gorgeous. When I pulled up to my house coming home from work today, I felt excited and proud of our home looks. I still would rather have my 1000s to spend another way, but I certainly can't complain about the new and improved, face-lifted Casa de Johan and family.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Elmo Can Take a Hike
I have heard from many parents, even those who aren't into the latest toddler craze, that toddlers have a deep and sometimes disturbing attachment to Elmo. This guy:
Not Johan. He has an Elmo doll at my mom's house and is still only mildly interested. He is, however, in love with Snuffle-upugus. That strange, mammoth, elephant-type guy who is friends with Big Bird. This guy:
We have a Sesame Street book that Johan likes to read every night before bed, and he always wants to turn back to the pages with Snuffy on them. And tonight he leaned forward and kissed the page. And then kissed Snuffy over and over again.
I love it that Johan breaks with convention and prefers the slow, unwieldy, quiet Snuffy to the hyperactive, popular Elmo. I wonder if they have a Snuffy doll? Not tickle-me-Snuffy, though. That would be gross.
Not Johan. He has an Elmo doll at my mom's house and is still only mildly interested. He is, however, in love with Snuffle-upugus. That strange, mammoth, elephant-type guy who is friends with Big Bird. This guy:
We have a Sesame Street book that Johan likes to read every night before bed, and he always wants to turn back to the pages with Snuffy on them. And tonight he leaned forward and kissed the page. And then kissed Snuffy over and over again.
I love it that Johan breaks with convention and prefers the slow, unwieldy, quiet Snuffy to the hyperactive, popular Elmo. I wonder if they have a Snuffy doll? Not tickle-me-Snuffy, though. That would be gross.
Monday, April 20, 2009
The reason it sucks to have phenomenal friends...
is that it's hard to live far away from them.
It's great to have friends that are smart and talented and ambitious and adventurous and independent and determined to make something of themselves and the world around them. What would there to be to like about them if they weren't? The hard part is when one might move to the Hoppe res where I'm pretty sure I'd have to rent a horse to navigate the trails and to go visit her and another is planning to move to South Africa. I just checked flights and in May it looks to be about $1300 to fly from Minneapolis to Johannesburg. This is less than I thought it would be, incidentally.
It's hard to not be excited for these excellent people- great opportunities to explore the world. But it's also hard to not be sad about the prospect of so much distance- especially when the nearness makes me feel happy and fulfilled. I don't doubt the friendships- time and distance aren't the kinds of things that would undo these relationships, but the idea that my once-in-awhile weekends with my closest friends could become even fewer and farther between makes me sad.
It's great to have friends that are smart and talented and ambitious and adventurous and independent and determined to make something of themselves and the world around them. What would there to be to like about them if they weren't? The hard part is when one might move to the Hoppe res where I'm pretty sure I'd have to rent a horse to navigate the trails and to go visit her and another is planning to move to South Africa. I just checked flights and in May it looks to be about $1300 to fly from Minneapolis to Johannesburg. This is less than I thought it would be, incidentally.
It's hard to not be excited for these excellent people- great opportunities to explore the world. But it's also hard to not be sad about the prospect of so much distance- especially when the nearness makes me feel happy and fulfilled. I don't doubt the friendships- time and distance aren't the kinds of things that would undo these relationships, but the idea that my once-in-awhile weekends with my closest friends could become even fewer and farther between makes me sad.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Dirt!
Today I picked Johan up from school and his face and hands were all dirty. Not in the way where one might be concerned that he wasn't being well taken care of, but in that great way where you can tell he's had lots fun. It made me feel happy. I have a strong sense of joy associated with memories of coming in the house after playing outside for hours on spring and summer nights, covered in sand and dirt and dust. Then taking a warm bath and falling asleep in my bed. It's not a specific memory of a certain day--more of an association of dirt and grub on my hands and face meaning I had had wonderful fun. I was glad to see Johan's grubby little hands and so enjoy witnessing him experience the joy of getting dirty.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Get yer hair did.
When I was a melancholy, dramatic, gum-smacking teen (no, assholes, I am not those things anymore), I placed a lot of significance on my hair. When my not-yet-diagnosed mentally ill ex-boyfriend broke up with me, after I peeled myself off the floor, I cut off all of my hair. Only because he had really liked my long hair. It made me feel better than I had in months.
I no longer place the same importance on hair as I once did, but yesterday I had a terrible day at work. I found out I lost a trial (my first big loss) and there was a major clerical error by one of the staff on another file that made me look like an idiot and may have made my case worse. So, just a general crappy day. The kind that must be ended with a few glasses of wine.
I had scheduled an appointment to have my hair cut yesterday evening a few weeks ago. After work, I went to the salon and had maybe 4 inches cut. More than I had planned, but I was ready to remove remnants of my no good very bad day. And, you know what? It sort of worked. I left feeling better, lighter, less angry/annoyed. Could have been the warm Spring sun, too, but I can't help but feeling that a haircut is a good remedy for the blues.
I no longer place the same importance on hair as I once did, but yesterday I had a terrible day at work. I found out I lost a trial (my first big loss) and there was a major clerical error by one of the staff on another file that made me look like an idiot and may have made my case worse. So, just a general crappy day. The kind that must be ended with a few glasses of wine.
I had scheduled an appointment to have my hair cut yesterday evening a few weeks ago. After work, I went to the salon and had maybe 4 inches cut. More than I had planned, but I was ready to remove remnants of my no good very bad day. And, you know what? It sort of worked. I left feeling better, lighter, less angry/annoyed. Could have been the warm Spring sun, too, but I can't help but feeling that a haircut is a good remedy for the blues.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Separation
I haven't spent a night away from Johan since he was born. Is that strange? Not sure.
When we were doing Johan's first music class, there was a set of twins around the same age as Johan (around 9 months back then) and their parents spent a week in Mexico and left the twins with the grandparents.
I have also just recently learned that a sister of a friend who has a daughter just a few weeks older than J is leaving the little girl for 3 weeks with the grandparents to go to Europe this summer.
I have no interest in spending 3 weeks away from Johan at this point, but maybe it's time for an overnight apart?
When we were doing Johan's first music class, there was a set of twins around the same age as Johan (around 9 months back then) and their parents spent a week in Mexico and left the twins with the grandparents.
I have also just recently learned that a sister of a friend who has a daughter just a few weeks older than J is leaving the little girl for 3 weeks with the grandparents to go to Europe this summer.
I have no interest in spending 3 weeks away from Johan at this point, but maybe it's time for an overnight apart?
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Welcome!
April 3, 2009:
Mom: Hey Johan, guess what? Friend Erika had her little baby Siri today! Great news! A new friend for you to play with and boss around!
Johan:
(Translation: Happy Birthday Siri. We can't wait to meet you.)
Mom: Hey Johan, guess what? Friend Erika had her little baby Siri today! Great news! A new friend for you to play with and boss around!
Johan:
(Translation: Happy Birthday Siri. We can't wait to meet you.)
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Saturday, March 28, 2009
On Compliments and Stuff
I realized at yoga class this morning that quite often my immediate reaction to receiving a compliment or positive feedback is to think of something self deprecating to counteract it.
After a VERY intensive and kick-ass 1.5 hours of yoga, the yoga instructor (whom I have not worked with before) said to me "you're so limber." The thought that popped into my head to respond was "thanks,but I make up for that by having the worst balance in the world." I was able to catch myself, and instead I just thanked her. I know there are other examples when I haven't caught myself, and rather than just accepting the compliment, I have pointed out a weakness that serves to undermine the compliment.
This is lame. Why do I do that? I am going to make a conscious effort to learn to graciously accept a compliment. This begins with learning to say thank you instead of making some dumb remark. Eventually it would be nice to train myself to not even let those self-criticizing thoughts into my head, but one step at a time.
Incidentally, my body is very sore after my limber tricks this morning.
After a VERY intensive and kick-ass 1.5 hours of yoga, the yoga instructor (whom I have not worked with before) said to me "you're so limber." The thought that popped into my head to respond was "thanks,but I make up for that by having the worst balance in the world." I was able to catch myself, and instead I just thanked her. I know there are other examples when I haven't caught myself, and rather than just accepting the compliment, I have pointed out a weakness that serves to undermine the compliment.
This is lame. Why do I do that? I am going to make a conscious effort to learn to graciously accept a compliment. This begins with learning to say thank you instead of making some dumb remark. Eventually it would be nice to train myself to not even let those self-criticizing thoughts into my head, but one step at a time.
Incidentally, my body is very sore after my limber tricks this morning.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Home (Part Two)
While I am excited about the previously described changes to our home, it isn't the case that I don't like our home. Just to be clear that there are many things I love about it, I thought I'd list some of them.
- We have hardwood floors and they creak sometimes.
- We have a yard for Johan to play in.
- We have a patio which is perfect for a cocktail on a summer evening.
- Our house faces south which means we get amazing sunlight.
- We can see the downtown Minneapolis skyline from our kitchen window.
- There is a door to the basement, which means we don't have baby gates in our house.
- We live in a safe neighborhood where we can go walking and playing and sitting in the yard without any more than common sense vigilance and safety precautions.
- We live in South Minneapolis, which is the best and only place to live in Minnesota.
There you have it.
- We have hardwood floors and they creak sometimes.
- We have a yard for Johan to play in.
- We have a patio which is perfect for a cocktail on a summer evening.
- Our house faces south which means we get amazing sunlight.
- We can see the downtown Minneapolis skyline from our kitchen window.
- There is a door to the basement, which means we don't have baby gates in our house.
- We live in a safe neighborhood where we can go walking and playing and sitting in the yard without any more than common sense vigilance and safety precautions.
- We live in South Minneapolis, which is the best and only place to live in Minnesota.
There you have it.
Home
We are not home improvement types. Eduardo watches quite a bit of HGTV and is pretty handy, but I am useless in that regard. Recently, I've been getting bored with our house/set up and have insisted on some changes.
First, I rearranged our very cozy living room/dining room space so that there is some definition between the 2 spaces. I bought a $99 carpet at Target that provides that definition and makes the living room part of the room much more inviting.
Second, we (Eduardo) painted our kitchen cabinets. They used to to be white and needed paint badly, so I talked to New Mexican Sarah who is a painting expert and got her input. We chose Benjamin Moore Tropicana Cabana- it's a bright but not too dark turquoise. So far just the top cabinets are done. They look great. Eduardo did a nice painting job and the color makes the kitchen brighter and more "fun." I think Eduardo also likes that we are adding some color to our house from the tropical palette. Dominicans don't really do earth tones.
Finally, yesterday we purchased a new dining set. The one we have is at least 30 years old. It's a quality table, but the style and stain do not match the rest of our stuff, and the captain's chair are overbearing and way too large for our space. This is what we bought.
We chose the counter height table because I read the higher tables tend to make small spaces look larger. The stain is beautiful in person, and the table closes down to quite narrow and opens up to a large square that seats 8-10.
Next step: replace crumbling front retaining wall. That's an expensive project but really needs to be done this summer. Suggestions for ways to do it on the cheap?
First, I rearranged our very cozy living room/dining room space so that there is some definition between the 2 spaces. I bought a $99 carpet at Target that provides that definition and makes the living room part of the room much more inviting.
Second, we (Eduardo) painted our kitchen cabinets. They used to to be white and needed paint badly, so I talked to New Mexican Sarah who is a painting expert and got her input. We chose Benjamin Moore Tropicana Cabana- it's a bright but not too dark turquoise. So far just the top cabinets are done. They look great. Eduardo did a nice painting job and the color makes the kitchen brighter and more "fun." I think Eduardo also likes that we are adding some color to our house from the tropical palette. Dominicans don't really do earth tones.
Finally, yesterday we purchased a new dining set. The one we have is at least 30 years old. It's a quality table, but the style and stain do not match the rest of our stuff, and the captain's chair are overbearing and way too large for our space. This is what we bought.
We chose the counter height table because I read the higher tables tend to make small spaces look larger. The stain is beautiful in person, and the table closes down to quite narrow and opens up to a large square that seats 8-10.
Next step: replace crumbling front retaining wall. That's an expensive project but really needs to be done this summer. Suggestions for ways to do it on the cheap?
Friday, March 13, 2009
Anxious
My reaction to any sort of medical worry is something more than *white coat syndrome.* It's not fear of procedures or even of pain, it's fear of the unknown. It's not entirely irrational- bad things happen all the time. I've had my share of alarming health situations, personally and involving my family. I wasn't a sickly kid, but had ear tubes twice, my tonsils removed, and my appendix removed- all before age 11. Maybe that set me up for being unable to be rational medical issues. Then, a couple years ago, my Grandpa, with whom I was very close, died quickly and unexpectedly at the same time that my Dad was having an acute health situation. My pregnancy, while joyful and yielding such a wonderful end-product, had it's share of stressers. And finally, Johan's scary ataxia last December was the worst day of my life.
I feel like my anxiety is worse now that I'm a parent. When you are completely responsible for another person's well-being; when a little person depends entirely on you, it gives you an appreciation of your own mortality. And I worry. And self-diagnose. And spend too much time googling health concerns. I am a smart person- able to address complex and difficult situations on a daily basis with a level head- except when it comes to a doctor calling with news of even the slightest abnormal test. When this happens, I crumble and become inconsolable. I become convinced of the worst and cannot imagine any other possibility. My psychologist friend calls that catastrophizing.
I do it. I catastrophize. And it's getting worse. My boss told me he keeps a supply of Xanax around for anxiety attacks - he also has a tendency to self-diagnose cancer and aneurysms (maybe that's why we get along so well?). This week, my doctor suggested getting a mild Rx for some psych medication. My mom pointed out that Xanax is for daily use and builds up in your system and doesn't just halt anxiety on an episodic basis. My wife suggested psych meds might make me crazy. My husband thinks that a combination of yoga and self-medicating with wine should be enough. My dad is in Puerto Rico but says we need to talk about this. I think I agree with all of them.
It's a funny thing- coming to a realization that my reactions to certain situations are not *normal.* Of course it's normal to worry about oneself and one's family's health, but uncontrollable crying and the unstoppable extrapolation that every slight abnormality means certain death is not normal and not healthy. This week at the doctor when I went for some follow up tests, the nurse noted my pulse was racing and my blood pressure was slightly elevated. No effing kidding. But then things are fine, and I go back to my functional, competent, highly-efficient self.
I guess I don't know if this needs intervention beyond yoga, wine, and an online journal. Committing to a medication seems extreme. I wish they made something just for what I need. Think of it as an SAT analogy:
Headache: Advil as Medical-related Anxiety: ____________.
What's the answer? Anyone? Anyone?
I feel like my anxiety is worse now that I'm a parent. When you are completely responsible for another person's well-being; when a little person depends entirely on you, it gives you an appreciation of your own mortality. And I worry. And self-diagnose. And spend too much time googling health concerns. I am a smart person- able to address complex and difficult situations on a daily basis with a level head- except when it comes to a doctor calling with news of even the slightest abnormal test. When this happens, I crumble and become inconsolable. I become convinced of the worst and cannot imagine any other possibility. My psychologist friend calls that catastrophizing.
I do it. I catastrophize. And it's getting worse. My boss told me he keeps a supply of Xanax around for anxiety attacks - he also has a tendency to self-diagnose cancer and aneurysms (maybe that's why we get along so well?). This week, my doctor suggested getting a mild Rx for some psych medication. My mom pointed out that Xanax is for daily use and builds up in your system and doesn't just halt anxiety on an episodic basis. My wife suggested psych meds might make me crazy. My husband thinks that a combination of yoga and self-medicating with wine should be enough. My dad is in Puerto Rico but says we need to talk about this. I think I agree with all of them.
It's a funny thing- coming to a realization that my reactions to certain situations are not *normal.* Of course it's normal to worry about oneself and one's family's health, but uncontrollable crying and the unstoppable extrapolation that every slight abnormality means certain death is not normal and not healthy. This week at the doctor when I went for some follow up tests, the nurse noted my pulse was racing and my blood pressure was slightly elevated. No effing kidding. But then things are fine, and I go back to my functional, competent, highly-efficient self.
I guess I don't know if this needs intervention beyond yoga, wine, and an online journal. Committing to a medication seems extreme. I wish they made something just for what I need. Think of it as an SAT analogy:
Headache: Advil as Medical-related Anxiety: ____________.
What's the answer? Anyone? Anyone?
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Funny Yoginis
At yoga class this morning:
Woman 1: Let's do lots of twists today. My stomach hurts so bad.
Woman 2: Oh, did you eat dairy again?
Woman 1: No, my daughter kicked me in the stomach when I wouldn't let her reach up my shirt.
I am going to be the yoga practitioner that doesn't hate on dairy all the time. It's going to be a revolution.
Woman 1: Let's do lots of twists today. My stomach hurts so bad.
Woman 2: Oh, did you eat dairy again?
Woman 1: No, my daughter kicked me in the stomach when I wouldn't let her reach up my shirt.
I am going to be the yoga practitioner that doesn't hate on dairy all the time. It's going to be a revolution.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Product Commentaries
These are kind of lame things to write about after a pretty extended absence, but this is all you get.
1) Nature's Pride Bread. Same price as regular bread (about $2.50.) No high fructose corn syrup. Geesh, finally. Check out your bread. Unless it's from the co-op or the natural foods section and you spent $5-6 dollars, it likely has high fructose corn syrup as an ingredient. It's about time there is a reasonably priced bread without HFCS. I endorse.
2) For his birthday, Johan received a V-tech nursery rhymes book. The pages turn like a book, but it's made of plastic (probably full of BPA or something) and when Johan pushes buttons the books sings the nursery rhymes. Featured are Little Bo Peep, Mary Had a Little Lamb, and Ring Around the Rosy. Today I listened to the words and it says:
Ring Around the Rosy
The doggy chases the kitty
Husha, husha
We all fall down.
Well, that's not how it goes. Where is the pocket full of posy? The ashes from the burning bodies to stop the spread of the Black Death? How did a dog and cat chase get involved in it? I guess the Plague isn't a toddler-friendly subject? I wonder if there was a prior model of the V-tech book that had the REAL words and some parents were offended? I certainly plan to teach Johan the real words and use it as an opportunity to discuss European history. And what the hell is Husha? Despite that Johan really likes this toy, I do not endorse for its lack of historical and/or literary accuracy.
1) Nature's Pride Bread. Same price as regular bread (about $2.50.) No high fructose corn syrup. Geesh, finally. Check out your bread. Unless it's from the co-op or the natural foods section and you spent $5-6 dollars, it likely has high fructose corn syrup as an ingredient. It's about time there is a reasonably priced bread without HFCS. I endorse.
2) For his birthday, Johan received a V-tech nursery rhymes book. The pages turn like a book, but it's made of plastic (probably full of BPA or something) and when Johan pushes buttons the books sings the nursery rhymes. Featured are Little Bo Peep, Mary Had a Little Lamb, and Ring Around the Rosy. Today I listened to the words and it says:
Ring Around the Rosy
The doggy chases the kitty
Husha, husha
We all fall down.
Well, that's not how it goes. Where is the pocket full of posy? The ashes from the burning bodies to stop the spread of the Black Death? How did a dog and cat chase get involved in it? I guess the Plague isn't a toddler-friendly subject? I wonder if there was a prior model of the V-tech book that had the REAL words and some parents were offended? I certainly plan to teach Johan the real words and use it as an opportunity to discuss European history. And what the hell is Husha? Despite that Johan really likes this toy, I do not endorse for its lack of historical and/or literary accuracy.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Semi-new photo
Johan had a haircut a couple weeks ago, so this is not actually what he looks like anymore. But, I think it's a fabulous picture. Photo credit: Sarah the Wife. I don't think she copyrighted this, so we should be able to avoid Erlinder v. Lund.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
New Feature
Because I don't want this to turn into a totally annoying baby blog (I prefer that it remain a totally annoying regular blog), I don't blog much about Johan's developments and new tricks.
But, I got the idea from another person's blog to add stats on the kid. I will update these now and then. If there are any requests for a specific statistic, please submit and the editorial board will take your thoughts under advisement.
But, I got the idea from another person's blog to add stats on the kid. I will update these now and then. If there are any requests for a specific statistic, please submit and the editorial board will take your thoughts under advisement.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Yoga
After college when I moved back to Minnesota, I somehow was still part of my family Calhoun Beach Club membership. I didn't start work until 8am so I would regularly go to Yoga and Pilates classes at the CBC at 6am.
During law school, I fell away from it, and my workouts consisted of sporadic pilates at home, 20 minutes here and there on the treadmill, and chain smoking. While I was pregnant, I worked out on the treadmill every day and quit smoking. Since Johan's been here, I try to work out at home, but it sometimes just doesn't happen or I get interrupted half way through. Very unsatisfying.
A couple of weeks ago in a deposition, another attorney mentioned Bikram yoga to me. It's a 90 minute yoga practice in a studio heated to 105 degrees (Fahrenheit). The must-take-everything-to-extremes part of me was instantly intrigued. After being talked down from the ledge by a couple yoga-practicing friends and my boss, I have started up with regular yoga classes. I have been 3 times this week and my body feels great. The studio caters to pregnant women and mothers of young children-they even have a supervised playroom and snacks for kids. I love the way I feel in class and especially after. Since I am sort of a beginner, I also like the attitude of the studio. No one is pretentious or showing off. I can place my mat where there are no mirrors, so I am not constantly self-criticizing my form or my lack of grace.
My new plan is this: 2 yoga classes per week. The Thursday 6am one, and one other as my and Eduardo's schedule permits. I am also going to try to do the treadmill 1-2times per week.
The yoga studio also offers parent/child yoga- I took Johan once. He isn't a very zen sort of baby and ended up trying to wrestle with other kids and then fell down and got a busted lip. Plus, I don't really get the emotional and mental benefit of yoga while he's in the studio. I think I'll stick to music class for Johan and me together, and take the yoga classes as my time for myself. And hopefully we can all avoid busted lips.
During law school, I fell away from it, and my workouts consisted of sporadic pilates at home, 20 minutes here and there on the treadmill, and chain smoking. While I was pregnant, I worked out on the treadmill every day and quit smoking. Since Johan's been here, I try to work out at home, but it sometimes just doesn't happen or I get interrupted half way through. Very unsatisfying.
A couple of weeks ago in a deposition, another attorney mentioned Bikram yoga to me. It's a 90 minute yoga practice in a studio heated to 105 degrees (Fahrenheit). The must-take-everything-to-extremes part of me was instantly intrigued. After being talked down from the ledge by a couple yoga-practicing friends and my boss, I have started up with regular yoga classes. I have been 3 times this week and my body feels great. The studio caters to pregnant women and mothers of young children-they even have a supervised playroom and snacks for kids. I love the way I feel in class and especially after. Since I am sort of a beginner, I also like the attitude of the studio. No one is pretentious or showing off. I can place my mat where there are no mirrors, so I am not constantly self-criticizing my form or my lack of grace.
My new plan is this: 2 yoga classes per week. The Thursday 6am one, and one other as my and Eduardo's schedule permits. I am also going to try to do the treadmill 1-2times per week.
The yoga studio also offers parent/child yoga- I took Johan once. He isn't a very zen sort of baby and ended up trying to wrestle with other kids and then fell down and got a busted lip. Plus, I don't really get the emotional and mental benefit of yoga while he's in the studio. I think I'll stick to music class for Johan and me together, and take the yoga classes as my time for myself. And hopefully we can all avoid busted lips.
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