Eroding Sensitivity

I’m the queen of gullible (and over committing to things).  Evidence here on the proof of being overly gullible.  I love a good laugh or practical joke.  I woke up expecting to see many false headlines today.  As my morning routine includes, I pulled up Facebook only to see a photo of a positive pregnancy test – you know the one with two lines – and smiled thinking of how lovely it would be for this family of four to become a family of five.  Lucky them!  THEN it hit me.  This was her version of an April Fool's joke.  I hope she’s laughing; I’m not. 

I guess she doesn't realize that her joke is one that many take quite seriously.  Wonder if she’s thought of the many women (likely her fb friends like me) who are unable to experience the joy of a positive pregnancy test.  I am extremely grateful to have had that experience once.  It took a long time to see the “plus” sign, and I may never see it again. I’m OK with that.  But some struggle more than me with infertility.   

I’m guessing she’s not experienced the “joys” of infertility.  Maybe she’s never had a friend who’s heart is literally too weak to support a pregnancy, or a friend who’s the mom of three beautiful children – all adopted because she was unable to conceive, or the many friends of mine grieving the loss of their unborn child due to miscarriage.  I’m generally quiet about these topics because they are so personal.  They are not fun to discuss, yet so many women struggle with a variety of reasons they cannot conceive. 

Wonder if she thought of the many women whose constant prayer is that they can experience a positive pregnancy test.  I am not one to cast the first stone and certainly am not in denial that I've been insensitive to others more than once in my life.  Similar to the Louisiana coast line, my cervix is slowly eroding away, but one of the things I've learned through many shared experiences, especially related to some form of infertility, is to be sensitive to the struggles of others.  Wouldn't it be wonderful if all women worked to be more sensitive to the private struggles of our peers. We are all on the same team, right? 

Until next time…

Run Sara Run

First things first - Happy New Year!  2013 was complete chaos and I could not be more thankful for every day that took place.  That said, hello 2014.  I've never been one for resolutions, but I did jot some goals for 2014.  I'll share those later.

I sincerely hope your holiday - Christmas, Hanukkah, or other religious celebration was delightful.  This Catholic girl enjoyed celebrating Jesus' birthday (um, shout out Mary and Joseph!)  and will continue to celebrate until the Twelfth night. (The Twelve Days of Christmas isn't just a song, ya'll!) 

I am guilty of many unfinished projects.  You are too, right?  I'm NOT ALONE, right?   There is one thing from 2013 that I still need to finish...It goes back this beach trip in late June 2013.  We had a blast.  But the whole time, I felt a little self conscious in my swimsuit - the one piece kind.  I decided that I needed to do a little extra physical activity to shed just a few pounds, so my pants still fit .  SO, I started walking in the mornings at 6 am.  (Did I mention I loathe waking up before sunrise?)  

The walking turned into a few sprints here and there and I decided that I liked running.  Wait, it's not so far reaching, I did run cross country in high school, fifteen years ago.  I battled a little with shin splints, invested in some great running shoes, etc.  I was set.  In early August, my (unbelievably smart and talented) friend Mary Leah got some "good" news that her heart was "healthy" enough to start exercise again.  

She posted online about beginning to train for a 5k.  If she can train for a 5k with a bad heart, certainly I need to do it too.  Solidarity.  Sisterhood.  I love this chick, so a few days later, I registered for a 5k.  As in, I paid people to let me run in a race.  

So the training began.   I downloaded a Couch to 5K application on my phone and could barely breath after the first day, August 7.  Throughout that day, my foot was uncomfortable.  I attempted to put on high heels the morning of August 8 and new something just wasn't right.  A couple phone calls and an X Ray later, I experienced my first broken bone - a stress fracture in the 4th metatarsal.  

I was delighted when an X Ray a mere seven weeks later told me I could continue the training.  (Aren't those sandals fabulous!?) 

Except, getting back into the training mode has been less than successful.  No particular reason...except a sinus infection here and there, not wanting to get out of bed, etc.  

Then 2014 arrived.  And I realized that the LA Marathon 5K is THIS month.  The C25K training is 8 weeks, 3 days.  I'm only on Week 4, Day 1.  

Wish me luck folks.  I will be running a 5K on January 18, 2014.  I just hope I'm not last.  Here's to 5:15 am wake ups and some intense training.  I'm not certain where Mary Leah is on her training, but I"m running this one for her! 

Until next time... 

Happy 5th Birthday Super Graham

Times flies --- just like any superhero.  

Graham recently turned five.  

ordered from here

Our celebration was filled with amazing friends and lots of (cold) fun!  We made superhero arm bands, played a little "Hot kryptonite" (instead of hot potato!) and had kryptonite races! 

superhero arm band station

kryptonite (aka, foil balls) 

hot kryptonite 

kryptonie relay races...just pure fun here

I scored these awesome capes from the dollar store just before Halloween!  My very talented friend made the masks for her son's party and gave me the remainders!  Visit her etsy store here.

My decorations and invite came from this amazing etsy shop.  

LOVE THE WORK, Customer Service was awesome too! 

We served hot dogs and chili, apples, grapes & cheese, a few cheese and cracker dips and lots of m&ms! 

Great American Cookie Company cake...amazing. 

transformed the robot from last year to a superhero too. 

I also created this photo booth using bulletin board paper from the teacher store and a pack of sharpies in three metallic colors.  I used spray adhesive to attach the paper to a foam board and used a "sort of" strait edge to create the buildings.  Graham had a blast helping me with this project.  It took about two hours start to finish and I was thoroughly excited it came out like I envisioned it...my husband didn't understand what I was going for until it was complete!  If you know my obsession with monograms, you will immediately recognize that the last building on the right is my favorite! 

  

Graham enjoyed playing with his friends and a fun time was had by all! 

Ben and I are continually amazed by this little boy.  We often ask ourselves how we ended up so lucky to get this kid.  Graham, you are the light of our eyes.  Continue to shine brightly for the world to see! 

Graham's Grandparents love him too! 

Life Lately...

Since my last post...in AUGUST...life has happened.  (To be fair, I did attempt a post in December for Graham's 4th birthday party, but haven't finished it!) Graham continues to amaze Benjamin and I daily with his knowledge, hilarious nature, sweet disposition.  He is a BOY though, so the sweet comes very sparingly.  It is so fun watching him grow! 

We've recently begun tball at our local YMCA.  It is quite entertaining to see him play with his teammates - most of them are school mates too! 

I was intending to update you more, but the AC Repair guy (and good friend) just called to say he's on the way!  Louisiana weather does not allow for a non operating air conditioner!

Until next time...

Growing up way too fast

Growing up way too fast. 

Meant for around August 10, 2012, but quickly written and posted August 24, 2012

WOW, has it really been that long since my last post?  We’ve had an exciting summer including lots of outside play (even in this heat!), a beach visit, soccer games and plenty of fun.  I was able to attend the 2012 Delta Zeta National Convention in San Antonio the first week of July.  I can’t really apologize for the blogging delay – fun family time comes first around here. 

Graham is an absolute joy to have in our lives.  I’m sure most parents feel that way about their children, but I wanted to share that with you.  We had a major transition recently, Graham left Kids Count Inc. and began in “Miss” Trisha and “Miss” Laurie” Pre4 Class at STM Preschool!  I cried sobbed his last day at Kids Count, but Graham just walked out the door.  He transitions way better than me.  Kids Count was a home for us for many years and I had no reservations about his wellbeing at STM, yet I was such a mess.  Seriously, I was a total train wreck that day.  Then it hit me.  My baby boy was growing up. 

Let’s face it; he’s more than half my height and smart as can be!  I knew this, but actually leaving Kids Count broke my heart.   Graham still prays for all of his Kids Count friend and teachers each night, along with his new friends and teachers at Saint Thomas More.

Here are a few pictures from our first days at STM.  You can find more on our Shutterfly Site.  I absolutely love STM and Graham seems to as well!  I am thankful that we are fortunate enough to have such a great preschool in our neighborhood!

A collections of photos before leaving home.  

Just before walking in!

Aunt Chandler was there to pick him up at the end of his first day!

Until next time…

Sew, What's Your Fancy?

Sew, What’s your Fancy?

June 18, 2012

I fondly recall the days I spent helping (and learning) my Momee, Ethel Landreneau, sew for us.  She made dresses, bubble rompers, Halloween costumes – you name it, she could do it!  I distinctly remember taking on a sewing lesson during one year of 4H and decided to make an apron.  Momee helped me every step of the way.  I can’t remember if my project won anything but I remember the time spent with my grandmother.  Thank you 4H for a great memory.

Since having Graham, I’ve often thought – I can do that, and so much cheaper! – when looking at various items of clothing for him.  Then, last summer during Graham’s swimming lessons, I complimented another mom on her daughter’s dress.  Turns out she MADE the dress for Catherine (and happened to be a high school classmate of Ben’s – Who says Baton Rouge is a big town?).  I was intrigued and excited – someone my age sews too!  Jenny is not only a great seamstress; she’s a pattern maker too.  Check out her great patterns here or her awesome blog here! 

I’ve learned in the last year or so that lots of people are sewing!   I saved my pennies and bought a sewing machine in February.  (This is the one I got!) That same weekend I sewed Graham some shorts.  Then I sewed another pair of shorts for a friend’s son’s 2^nd birthday.  (Where did those pictures go!!?)

Lately, I’ve been trying to learn.  I took a sewing class at The Crafty Shack of Louisiana a couple weeks ago and was introduced to laminated cotton and created this little beauty in no time at all! 

(I actually made two that day and then two more for my coworkers!)

Fabric & Ribbon: The Crafty Shack of LA

Pattern:  http://lilatuellerdesigns.blogspot.com/2012/05/free-trash-stashers-pattern.html

Then, on pinterest or somewhere online, I found this nifty pattern to make a baby changing clutch and remembered this awesome madras plaid laminated fabric I’d seen earlier…and one Saturday afternoon, I made this!

before

a clutch diaper changing pad!

Fabric & Bias Tape: The Crafty Shack of LA

Accessories: Found in my house

Pattern: http://www.allfreesewing.com/Sewing-for-Baby/Travel-Diaper-Changing-Pad-Pattern#

Following those small projects, came a challenge!  Jenny needed a pattern tester for her newest Boy’s Classic Fit Pants so I volunteered.  Doesn’t Graham look cute in his blue seer sucker with crawfish?

 

Fabric: The Crafty Shack of LA

Pattern: http://seaminglysmitten.com/product/boy-s-classic-fit-pants

 

After a conversation with Jenny, she inspired me to try something for ME.  I was determined to make a dress based on a post she had on her blog…My Date Night Dress…and gave it a try!  I found a great rayon print and tried to mimic her dress.  (Imitation is the greatest form of flattery, right?)  I asked her a couple questions and did a little internet research and here’s the final result.  My only disappointment is that I forgot to add pockets!  Oh well, next time, right?  

Fabric: Hancock Fabrics (Sherwood & Florida Blvd) 
Pattern: a pillowcase dress for an adult with an elastic waist ... 

I even whipped up these clown pants for Graham (late) last night for his Circus Character day!  I had a button hole boo boo and had to use the bias tape to fix it!  Thankfully, he comes by a "clown wig" naturally, so with a bit of colored hair spray we were able to be a clown with almost no effort!

Graham the Clown!

Next step, ZIPPERS.  They scare me, but I need to tackle that task because I found a great skirt pattern that calls for a zipper!   

Thank you Momee for the foundation and inspiration and thanks to Jenny for the encouragement! 

What do you think I should make next? 

Until next time…

As Crazy As the Next Mom, Right?

 

As Crazy As the Next Mom, Right?

June 4, 2012

I'm an OCD over achiever / perfectionist - I admit it.  The events below will show you just how much.  A few weeks ago Graham had the honor of taking the class pet, George, a stuffed monkey, home for the weekend. We had a wonderful time sharing our busy weekend with George.  The completed report "Graham" was asked to turn in for the class binder is below.  

It's the creation and ultimate task of printing the document that reveal my obsessive compulsive tendencies for perfection and achievement, yes, even for my three year old son's class pet project.

As you can see, we thoroughly documented the busy weekend. By Sunday evening we were all exhausted - the stuffed monkey included. Once Graham went to sleep, while trying to catch up on laundry, I sat at the Mac and began our weekend recap on a word document. It took a little more than two hours to add the photos and descriptions and get them in just the right place in the document. Yes, I said two hours. After waiting patiently for the doc to save, I sent it to print. At midnight on a Sunday I realized my printer was out of ink for a document due Monday morning. (Am I in college again?) CRAP.

Ok. I had a plan, email the doc to my work account and run to work and print it on the 'way' to Kids Count. That will work...but it didn't. The document was too large. So I tried to save it as a PDF document...still too large. Please also note that the file takes approximately 10 minutes to save and saves automatically every time I try to do anything with it. Now it's ONE am. I'm tired and post something to Facebook about my frustration and go to bed.

When I wake up Monday, I thankfully recall the USB zip drive I have and think the problem is solved. Wrong again. A Facebook friend suggests some file share site but that doesn't work either. The document is simply too large to move and I have no ink. So, I call the teacher and let her know I'm having technical problems and the report will be turned in later.

I just spent 2 hours working on Graham's report about his

weekend with George only to discover I'm out of ink to print it

and it's too large to email it...let's hope I have a zip drive in my

laptop case when I look tomorrow morning. This mom is going to bed!

 

The subsequent thread on facebook:

Ryan - yousendit.com = emails large files for free. You can use it 1 time  

without signing up or paying for anything...

 

Me - Thanks...but apparently putting 35 pictures into a word document

makes a file too large to transfer electronically ... I thought of a backup

plan - and without coffee. I'm hoping this will work!

 

Cathleen – Why are you doing Graham's homework?

 

Me – Well Cathleen, though Graham is quite advanced for his age his writing

and photo editing skills are still being developed! Plus, he was crashed from the weekend. He's such a slacker!

Determined to finish the report, I download the pics to my work pc and spend about an hour recreating the document as a power point presentation, since it's equipped to hold more media than a word document. Voila, the report is complete and better than the first one, and looks really great in the binder. 

Graham's Weekend with George! (The final product!)

Anyone else this insanely crazy for their child's class project? What am I going to do when he's in 'big' school - prek - starting in August?  


Until next time...