September 27, 2010
Dear J,
Well, here we are. It’s been a year. It seems that each month the list of new things you’re doing only gets longer – and cooler. I have to admit, though, that after this one, the letters may drop to every few months or so. We’ll see.
So let’s get to the fun new things you’re doing lately. Last thing first …
The day before your first birthday, you took three steps on your own. It’s not pretty, but you’re officially walking. You’re up to four or five steps at a time, and I imagine that in about two weeks we’ll be chasing you around the house.
You’re also talking. OK, that may be overstating it a bit. You love to say, whisper, yell “Yeah!” though. It’s how I found you and Dad in the store a couple of weeks ago. I just wandered around until I heard “yeah … yeah … yeah” from a couple aisles over. You also say “Hey” and “Dad.” And Gigi swears you said “dog” the other day. Oh, and you’re trying your hardest to say “picture”. You point at pictures and say “pish”. It’s adorable. You may also be saying “mom”, but I could just be hearing things.
Your Gigi taught you to smack your lips when you want something to drink. And say “ahhh” after you have a sip. We only reinforce this particular behavior because it’s seriously cute.
When Millie gets all excited and starts running circles around you and the coffee table, you crack up laughing and throw your arms up over your head. Tug of war with Millie is also a favorite game, but we have to help out with that a bit.
All four bicuspids are coming in and you’re surprisingly OK with this. Yes, if you’re keeping count, those are teeth 9-12.
You love to throw things and laugh, even though they go about six inches – a mile to you. More fun than throwing, though, is dropping toys over the balcony or down the stairs. Pulling the vent cover out of the floor and trying to put things down the vents has, on several occasions, kept you occupied for no less than 20 minutes.
I run the risk of going on too long if I don’t wrap it up, but suffice it to say we are completely in love, can’t believe it’s already been a year, and can’t wait for everything that’s yet to come.
Love,
Mom
Monday, September 27, 2010
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
More libertarian every day
I've become disillusioned with the Olympics' everybody's equal kumbaya all is peaceful and beautiful amateur thing in the last 10-15 years, but didn't really think of it in the terms of NCAA sports. This piece from Skip Oliva about privatizing college sports and the history of "amateur" athletics is eye-opening and somehow not surprising.
It's worth reading the whole thing.
hat tip: http://williamlanderson.blogspot.com
Amateurism itself is a class-based concept. In Walter Camp's day, an amateur was merely a generalist who didn't specialize in a particular sport or hobby. This excluded members of the "working classes," because their specialty in physical labor gave them an unfair advantage over gentlemen of the privileged classes (like Camp). The idea of paying amateur athletes was unnecessary, as their social position made it unnecessary.
By the early 20th century, academics transformed amateurism into a moral code consistent with collectivist principles. Howard Savage, a Carnegie Foundation official in the 1930s, said "professionalism in school and college athletics … is a most serious evil," and that amateurism represented "the moral struggle between force and the uses to which, with the sanction of our civilization, it may be used and should be put." In other words, athletes were barbarians who had to be tamed by the "civilizing" presence of academics. Savage noted that while it was acceptable for students in artistic fields to profit from their work – because they offered "tests of even temper and self-control" – it was never acceptable for athletes to profit from their efforts...
Of course, there is nothing wrong with the universities profiting from the athletes.
It's worth reading the whole thing.
hat tip: http://williamlanderson.blogspot.com
Friday, September 17, 2010
New Trick
Anytime I think about posting a status on Facebook, I'll just come here instead because I can add more context to it - and frankly, I don't think I really want to share most of my thoughts with all my FB "friends".
So ...
I got an awesome new toy for my birthday - a Nook - but I haven't started using it yet. That's because I started the Lord of the Rings trilogy earlier this summer in real book form, and I have this weird need to complete that before starting anything else. (I can't read five books at once like Dave does.)
You see, I started LoTR once before in college, and couldn't get through it - holy crap with all the WALKING! So, I think I'm afraid that if I start something else, I'll get out of the mode and won't go back. I have no idea why I feel the need to read it, especially considering I find it good not great, but I do. Especially now that I've finally started the last book.
(That post as an FB status would have been, "... can't wait to start using the Nook, but must finish LoTR first." I'm sure this post was so much more interesting.)
So ...
I got an awesome new toy for my birthday - a Nook - but I haven't started using it yet. That's because I started the Lord of the Rings trilogy earlier this summer in real book form, and I have this weird need to complete that before starting anything else. (I can't read five books at once like Dave does.)
You see, I started LoTR once before in college, and couldn't get through it - holy crap with all the WALKING! So, I think I'm afraid that if I start something else, I'll get out of the mode and won't go back. I have no idea why I feel the need to read it, especially considering I find it good not great, but I do. Especially now that I've finally started the last book.
(That post as an FB status would have been, "... can't wait to start using the Nook, but must finish LoTR first." I'm sure this post was so much more interesting.)
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Time and Timing
Coming up on J's first birthday, this post shows up in my feed from James Lileks' Bleat. His daughter is 10, I think.
It didn’t occur to me until a few minutes ago that the top of the dresser was where her changing area had been, where she’d laid on her back laughing as an infant while I did what you had to do, made the requisite faces of funny horror – stinky! – then stuffed the offal down the diaper genie, and picked her up and gone on with our day. She’ll be a senior in high school sitting at a desk in that spot and I’ll still remember that like it was yesterday. Time is linear, but so is a piece of string – take two points far apart, put your fingertips together. It was yesterday. Makes you envy dogs, sometimes; everything is now and next. There is no then.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
gasp ... another post
It is my goal to post more on this site than just letters to J. So, in an effort to achieve that, I'm posting a second time in as many days.
I'd like to get the insight of all five of my readers on a question I've had for ages now.
Why are we more willing to accept a singer who decides to act than an actor who decides to sing? See: Will Smith, Justin Timberlake, Jennifer Hudson vs. pretty much any actor that ever tried his or her hand at music. Maybe there is an exception for actors who began on or went to broadway, but I still can't think of one that could be considered a mainstream musical success.
I'd like to get the insight of all five of my readers on a question I've had for ages now.
Why are we more willing to accept a singer who decides to act than an actor who decides to sing? See: Will Smith, Justin Timberlake, Jennifer Hudson vs. pretty much any actor that ever tried his or her hand at music. Maybe there is an exception for actors who began on or went to broadway, but I still can't think of one that could be considered a mainstream musical success.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
11 Months
August 24, 2010
Dear J,
Well, you’re already 11 months old. “Already” seems to be the theme here.
I’ve got to get a little more creative with these, instead of just a list of everything you’ve done. Unfortunately, today isn’t that day. I can’t believe all you’ve done in just the three weeks since I last wrote.
Your favorite thing now is to look at pictures – on the wall, on the fridge, wherever – it’s a good thing we have tons of them, I guess. And you’ll plan monkey getting into the arms of whoever is closest to said pictures. Then you point at them while we tell you who it is (and then you try to eat the magnets off the fridge). Speaking of pointing, you point at everything. And you wave, too. In the last week or so, you even started waving in context of saying hello or good-bye, instead of randomly at the dinner table.
We think you’ve decided that you don’t like baby food anymore. After about four bites, you simply spit it out. Thank goodness you do not do this violently; you simply close your lips and then push the food out with your tongue – so you’re like a giant toothpaste tube of green beans. It’s at least a little less messy that way. Oh, and then you smile. Unless you’ve already eaten a lot you don’t, however, do this with finger foods or more textured, grow-up foods. We were not ready for this, and now we have to do a lot more planning when it comes to your meals. You are clearly worth it, but I must apologize in advance if you get sweet potato bites for eight meals in a row (one sweet potato makes a LOT).
And now to the big developments – no, you’re not walking yet, but …
You stand on your own for more than 10 seconds at a time (editor’s note – no, I have not missed the fact that I am indeed one of those parents insanely proud of what, one year ago, would have seemed entirely silly), and you love love love to push your activity table – and shopping cart thingy, and diaper box, and laundry basket – around the house. I don’t know when you’ll crave true independence, but it can’t be long now (another 18 years, at least?).
Forget the sippy cup, though. We never found one that worked really well for you, so we’ve moved onto straws. It’s still mostly bottles (the only way you’ll drink the fill six or eight ounces), but you have totally figured out the straw. When it’s not so important that you get more milk than anything else, the bottles will be gone. Woohoo.
And finally, after a few months, you have learned “gentle”. Thank goodness. For a while there, you couldn’t be out with the rest of the kids at daycare because you just wanted to pull their hair. It was all with love, but that doesn’t change the fact that it hurts. Just ask Mommy, Gigi, Millie, Cecil or Orange. But now, you don’t pull, you go right up to the little girls in class and pet ever so sweetly. The animals haven’t come back around, though, so they can’t appreciate this new development yet. As daddy says, “you’re such a dude.”
Love,
Mom
Dear J,
Well, you’re already 11 months old. “Already” seems to be the theme here.
I’ve got to get a little more creative with these, instead of just a list of everything you’ve done. Unfortunately, today isn’t that day. I can’t believe all you’ve done in just the three weeks since I last wrote.
Your favorite thing now is to look at pictures – on the wall, on the fridge, wherever – it’s a good thing we have tons of them, I guess. And you’ll plan monkey getting into the arms of whoever is closest to said pictures. Then you point at them while we tell you who it is (and then you try to eat the magnets off the fridge). Speaking of pointing, you point at everything. And you wave, too. In the last week or so, you even started waving in context of saying hello or good-bye, instead of randomly at the dinner table.
We think you’ve decided that you don’t like baby food anymore. After about four bites, you simply spit it out. Thank goodness you do not do this violently; you simply close your lips and then push the food out with your tongue – so you’re like a giant toothpaste tube of green beans. It’s at least a little less messy that way. Oh, and then you smile. Unless you’ve already eaten a lot you don’t, however, do this with finger foods or more textured, grow-up foods. We were not ready for this, and now we have to do a lot more planning when it comes to your meals. You are clearly worth it, but I must apologize in advance if you get sweet potato bites for eight meals in a row (one sweet potato makes a LOT).
And now to the big developments – no, you’re not walking yet, but …
You stand on your own for more than 10 seconds at a time (editor’s note – no, I have not missed the fact that I am indeed one of those parents insanely proud of what, one year ago, would have seemed entirely silly), and you love love love to push your activity table – and shopping cart thingy, and diaper box, and laundry basket – around the house. I don’t know when you’ll crave true independence, but it can’t be long now (another 18 years, at least?).
Forget the sippy cup, though. We never found one that worked really well for you, so we’ve moved onto straws. It’s still mostly bottles (the only way you’ll drink the fill six or eight ounces), but you have totally figured out the straw. When it’s not so important that you get more milk than anything else, the bottles will be gone. Woohoo.
And finally, after a few months, you have learned “gentle”. Thank goodness. For a while there, you couldn’t be out with the rest of the kids at daycare because you just wanted to pull their hair. It was all with love, but that doesn’t change the fact that it hurts. Just ask Mommy, Gigi, Millie, Cecil or Orange. But now, you don’t pull, you go right up to the little girls in class and pet ever so sweetly. The animals haven’t come back around, though, so they can’t appreciate this new development yet. As daddy says, “you’re such a dude.”
Love,
Mom
Sunday, August 01, 2010
10 months (+)
Already, we’re here again? I thought I asked you to slow it down. Oh, well; I have a feeling this is the shape of things to come.
Well, there’s a whole list of things you’ve done or started over the last month. It seemed at first like there weren’t going to be many changes, and there generally aren’t any big ones. But there are a couple that we just adore.
You’re still crawling – getting faster every day – and pulling yourself up on everything. You’re no longer content, though, to just hang on. Now, especially with the couch and the coffee table, we can officially say you’re cruising. You’ll slide all the way down the couch if the thing you want is at the other end, and you’ll even move from the coffee table to the couch and back, if they are close enough together. You’re also trying to figure out how to stand up one your own, but the way you’re trying isn’t going to work quite yet. You simply stick your butt up in the air with only your hands and feet on the ground. That’s going to be a tough way to start standing, unless you’re some sort of born yogi or kung fu master.
Last weekend, you also stood next to the coffee table without holding on, but you didn’t realize you were doing that because you were busy with a couple of toys in your hands. And you haven't done it again since.
A couple of weeks ago, you got really sick. Well, you didn’t seem to be sick, except you were miserable with a 103.9 degree fever (turns out it was yet another ear infection). You have our permission never to do that again.
Swimming lessons are going very well. You’re becoming so comfortable in the water, and I think if the lessons weren’t during your naptime, it would be even better. You love jumping into the pool from sitting on the edge, and you also hang onto the side very well. You even don’t mind going under water too much, either.
So, now to the two adorable new things you are doing. First of all, you have learned to stick out your bottom lip whenever one of us tells you “no,” or you don’t get what you want immediately. I don’t think it’s working the way you hope, though, because we just think it’s the cutest thing and laugh, instead of giving into your requests.
And finally, the best thing by far – you will kiss us on the nose when we ask. All we have to say is “J, can I have a kiss,” and you’ll open your mouth, and lean in to “kiss” the nose of whoever’s holding you. Rumor has it from the grandparents that the other day, you even puckered up for a real kiss. I must admit that I completely abuse this new talent of yours.
Well, that’s about it this time. Another note’s coming in just a few weeks. I guess I'll be ready.
Love you,
Mom
Well, there’s a whole list of things you’ve done or started over the last month. It seemed at first like there weren’t going to be many changes, and there generally aren’t any big ones. But there are a couple that we just adore.
You’re still crawling – getting faster every day – and pulling yourself up on everything. You’re no longer content, though, to just hang on. Now, especially with the couch and the coffee table, we can officially say you’re cruising. You’ll slide all the way down the couch if the thing you want is at the other end, and you’ll even move from the coffee table to the couch and back, if they are close enough together. You’re also trying to figure out how to stand up one your own, but the way you’re trying isn’t going to work quite yet. You simply stick your butt up in the air with only your hands and feet on the ground. That’s going to be a tough way to start standing, unless you’re some sort of born yogi or kung fu master.
Last weekend, you also stood next to the coffee table without holding on, but you didn’t realize you were doing that because you were busy with a couple of toys in your hands. And you haven't done it again since.
A couple of weeks ago, you got really sick. Well, you didn’t seem to be sick, except you were miserable with a 103.9 degree fever (turns out it was yet another ear infection). You have our permission never to do that again.
Swimming lessons are going very well. You’re becoming so comfortable in the water, and I think if the lessons weren’t during your naptime, it would be even better. You love jumping into the pool from sitting on the edge, and you also hang onto the side very well. You even don’t mind going under water too much, either.
So, now to the two adorable new things you are doing. First of all, you have learned to stick out your bottom lip whenever one of us tells you “no,” or you don’t get what you want immediately. I don’t think it’s working the way you hope, though, because we just think it’s the cutest thing and laugh, instead of giving into your requests.
And finally, the best thing by far – you will kiss us on the nose when we ask. All we have to say is “J, can I have a kiss,” and you’ll open your mouth, and lean in to “kiss” the nose of whoever’s holding you. Rumor has it from the grandparents that the other day, you even puckered up for a real kiss. I must admit that I completely abuse this new talent of yours.
Well, that’s about it this time. Another note’s coming in just a few weeks. I guess I'll be ready.
Love you,
Mom
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Nine Months
June 27, 2010
Dear J,
You’re a few days past the end of your ninth month, and, as usual, I can’t believe it. This weekend was rough, though. You got a completely unexplained fever that went pretty high and stayed around at a lower point for a day and a half. You were not happy at all about it, either. Fevers just make you feel so awful, and we were so happy when it finally went away this morning.
This has been a very eventful month, too. You got your first hair cut right at the beginning and already need another one. Your dad is so jealous.
You’ve started clapping, but not on command. You’ll just randomly clap and look at us with the biggest grin. And you still smile all the time, in spite of the fact that your teeth just keep on coming in - which isn't your favorite thing. You’re up to eight now, and since there seemed to be a faucet somewhere in your mouth this weekend, I think a couple more are on their way in.
Swim lessons started a few weeks back. You liked the water the first time we got you in a pool last month, but this time you weren’t so sure. I think it’s the noise more than anything, since it’s an indoor pool, and there are tons of lessons and practices going on at the same time. But by the third week, you were really enjoying and even trying to put your face into the water.
And, yes, you are now officially crawling – everywhere. You love to go pull all the DVDs out of the cabinet. You love to crawl wherever will give you a way to pull up and stand up – the back door, the gate at the top of the stairs, the coffee table, the chair, couch …
I’m certainly not rushing you, but I am curious about how long it’s going to take you to start walking. It may be a little while, though, because you aren’t all that interested yet in moving from one piece of furniture to the other. But you do want anyone and everyone to help you walk around the room. And when you see someone, you reach out, only satisfied to grab a couple of fingers, pull yourself up and start walking. We’ll see where this goes.
Just this weekend, you started a new smile, and I must admit that it is so endearing - and so scary. You tuck your head, look up, and smile with your lips pursed in such a way that there is clearly something going on in your head that you don’t want to share. But you want us to know that you know. I just adore it.
But I think, right now, my favorite thing you give is a giant hug. Whenever we pick you up, you just lean in, tuck your head into our necks, and squeeze.
I guess that’s it for now. Can we take a little longer between this and the next letter, please? Yeah, I didn’t think so.
I love you,
Mom
Dear J,
You’re a few days past the end of your ninth month, and, as usual, I can’t believe it. This weekend was rough, though. You got a completely unexplained fever that went pretty high and stayed around at a lower point for a day and a half. You were not happy at all about it, either. Fevers just make you feel so awful, and we were so happy when it finally went away this morning.
This has been a very eventful month, too. You got your first hair cut right at the beginning and already need another one. Your dad is so jealous.
You’ve started clapping, but not on command. You’ll just randomly clap and look at us with the biggest grin. And you still smile all the time, in spite of the fact that your teeth just keep on coming in - which isn't your favorite thing. You’re up to eight now, and since there seemed to be a faucet somewhere in your mouth this weekend, I think a couple more are on their way in.
Swim lessons started a few weeks back. You liked the water the first time we got you in a pool last month, but this time you weren’t so sure. I think it’s the noise more than anything, since it’s an indoor pool, and there are tons of lessons and practices going on at the same time. But by the third week, you were really enjoying and even trying to put your face into the water.
And, yes, you are now officially crawling – everywhere. You love to go pull all the DVDs out of the cabinet. You love to crawl wherever will give you a way to pull up and stand up – the back door, the gate at the top of the stairs, the coffee table, the chair, couch …
I’m certainly not rushing you, but I am curious about how long it’s going to take you to start walking. It may be a little while, though, because you aren’t all that interested yet in moving from one piece of furniture to the other. But you do want anyone and everyone to help you walk around the room. And when you see someone, you reach out, only satisfied to grab a couple of fingers, pull yourself up and start walking. We’ll see where this goes.
Just this weekend, you started a new smile, and I must admit that it is so endearing - and so scary. You tuck your head, look up, and smile with your lips pursed in such a way that there is clearly something going on in your head that you don’t want to share. But you want us to know that you know. I just adore it.
But I think, right now, my favorite thing you give is a giant hug. Whenever we pick you up, you just lean in, tuck your head into our necks, and squeeze.
I guess that’s it for now. Can we take a little longer between this and the next letter, please? Yeah, I didn’t think so.
I love you,
Mom
Monday, May 24, 2010
Eight Months
Dear J,
Wow, it’s been eight months already. Really?! I know I say that every time, but seriously. One day you will understand what I’m talking about, but for now, you’ll just have to take my word for the fact that time just disappears when you’re watching a little one grow up.
And growing up, you are. No one can believe how much hair you have. I never understood (read: silently judged) moms who wouldn’t cut their kids’ hair. I mean, it’s just hair – whatever. But here I am, saying to myself, “no, it’s not just hair.” It’s a stage that has passed and will never be back. Yes, I know, it is just hair and I know that whether your hair is cut or not, that stage passes regardless, but it is symbolic of something, and I’m not ready to admit that we’re in the next stage in your life yet – even if it’s already here. Plus, most kids don’t get there this early. I mean, seriously, your hair is in your eyes, and over your ears. It’s the cutest thing when you grab it with your fingertips and stroke the little ends of the hair over your ears. You kind of zone out when you do that – like you’re considering the fate of the world, or what the island on LOST really is.
You just smile all the time. And laugh. And jabber jabber jabber. You even say the cutest little “Hi Dad” that comes out more like “eye-da”, but we know what you mean (of course we do).
Peek-a-boo is your favorite game to play, and it really gets you cracking up. You and GiGi were playing peek-a-boo at lunch the other day, and we actually had to stop because you were laughing and squealing so loud in the restaurant.
You’re eating all kinds of foods now, and so far, I don’t think you’ve turned a single thing away. Sometimes you make a funny face, but you always come back for more. The funny thing is that you have absolutely no interest in trying to feed yourself. As a matter of fact, you’ll put anything into your mouth except for food.
You’re trying to wave and trying to figure out the crawling thing. You can get up on all fours, but then you don’t quite know what to do after that. You can keep it that way as long as you’d like, though. I don’t think I’m ready for your mobility, either.
Oh, and finally, I have to end with the best. You love to hug and kiss. You give the best hugs – just squeezing tight whenever we pick you up. And your kisses are basically very wet (five teeth and counting) nose bites. There is nothing cuter in the world.
I Love You,
Mom
P.S. I forgot to mention that you help now, when we’re dressing you. You put your arms up and gather your fingers together to make it easier to put a shirt on. It’s just adorable.
Wow, it’s been eight months already. Really?! I know I say that every time, but seriously. One day you will understand what I’m talking about, but for now, you’ll just have to take my word for the fact that time just disappears when you’re watching a little one grow up.
And growing up, you are. No one can believe how much hair you have. I never understood (read: silently judged) moms who wouldn’t cut their kids’ hair. I mean, it’s just hair – whatever. But here I am, saying to myself, “no, it’s not just hair.” It’s a stage that has passed and will never be back. Yes, I know, it is just hair and I know that whether your hair is cut or not, that stage passes regardless, but it is symbolic of something, and I’m not ready to admit that we’re in the next stage in your life yet – even if it’s already here. Plus, most kids don’t get there this early. I mean, seriously, your hair is in your eyes, and over your ears. It’s the cutest thing when you grab it with your fingertips and stroke the little ends of the hair over your ears. You kind of zone out when you do that – like you’re considering the fate of the world, or what the island on LOST really is.
You just smile all the time. And laugh. And jabber jabber jabber. You even say the cutest little “Hi Dad” that comes out more like “eye-da”, but we know what you mean (of course we do).
Peek-a-boo is your favorite game to play, and it really gets you cracking up. You and GiGi were playing peek-a-boo at lunch the other day, and we actually had to stop because you were laughing and squealing so loud in the restaurant.
You’re eating all kinds of foods now, and so far, I don’t think you’ve turned a single thing away. Sometimes you make a funny face, but you always come back for more. The funny thing is that you have absolutely no interest in trying to feed yourself. As a matter of fact, you’ll put anything into your mouth except for food.
You’re trying to wave and trying to figure out the crawling thing. You can get up on all fours, but then you don’t quite know what to do after that. You can keep it that way as long as you’d like, though. I don’t think I’m ready for your mobility, either.
Oh, and finally, I have to end with the best. You love to hug and kiss. You give the best hugs – just squeezing tight whenever we pick you up. And your kisses are basically very wet (five teeth and counting) nose bites. There is nothing cuter in the world.
I Love You,
Mom
P.S. I forgot to mention that you help now, when we’re dressing you. You put your arms up and gather your fingers together to make it easier to put a shirt on. It’s just adorable.
Monday, April 26, 2010
7 Months
Dear J,
Well, you’re seven months old now, and I can’t believe it. I mean, we’re closer to your first birthday than your actual birth day. How exactly did that happen?
We’re trying desperately to enjoy every moment with you, and I think we’re succeeding. But the days still manage to fly by. I’ve started a new schedule with work this last week, which means on Mondays I get to pick you up from daycare and on Fridays we get to hang out when I’m done at 1:30. It’s such a wonderful addition to my week. Your dad and I have realized these last couple of months how much we can’t stand Mondays because we’ve spent all weekend with you and then we have to go back to only getting you for a couple hours a day.
You’re doing wonderful new things since your last birthday. Sitting up on your own is fantastic because it opens up the world of toys for you. Bath time is a new adventure, too; you splash around like a madman.
You’re trying so hard to crawl, pushing yourself up onto all fours. But you can’t quite get your head up, and you definitely don’t have the ability to move your arms and legs in conjunction with each other. But I have realized that you do things in an interesting way. Instead of consistent development and growth, you tend to spike and plateau. So, with sitting, you were wobbly forever, and then one day you just sat all on your own. I have a feeling that’s how you’ll be with crawling and walking too.
Speaking of walking, I’m wondering if you won’t do that and skip crawling altogether. You can already stand up and hold onto things like the coffee table. And you can pick up your feet and move along with one of us holding your hands. It seems to be an easier motion for you than crawling, so we’ll see. You also definitely prefer standing to sitting. But, hey, don’t think I’m rushing you into this mobility thing. Please take your time with that, because mommy and daddy definitely aren’t ready for that yet.
And finally, you’re really chatty now. It started out briefly as bababababababa, then lalalalala. But now, there’s even a bit of dada (and once when daddy walked into the room), but also lots of weird (and loud) noises that aren’t just repetitive. And you enunciate and emphasize “syllables” – not that we understand a word your saying, but you certainly seem to. And you love talking to the girl’s portrait we have hanging next to the couch.
Just wait until next week, when you get to go to the beach for a real vacation
Love,
Mom
P.S. I almost forgot to mention that your top two teeth broke through today. We can't see them without looking, but I did get a good look this afternoon. I know it's time, but I still can't believe it. You're going to look so different, and even more like a little man once those teeth come in.
Well, you’re seven months old now, and I can’t believe it. I mean, we’re closer to your first birthday than your actual birth day. How exactly did that happen?
We’re trying desperately to enjoy every moment with you, and I think we’re succeeding. But the days still manage to fly by. I’ve started a new schedule with work this last week, which means on Mondays I get to pick you up from daycare and on Fridays we get to hang out when I’m done at 1:30. It’s such a wonderful addition to my week. Your dad and I have realized these last couple of months how much we can’t stand Mondays because we’ve spent all weekend with you and then we have to go back to only getting you for a couple hours a day.
You’re doing wonderful new things since your last birthday. Sitting up on your own is fantastic because it opens up the world of toys for you. Bath time is a new adventure, too; you splash around like a madman.
You’re trying so hard to crawl, pushing yourself up onto all fours. But you can’t quite get your head up, and you definitely don’t have the ability to move your arms and legs in conjunction with each other. But I have realized that you do things in an interesting way. Instead of consistent development and growth, you tend to spike and plateau. So, with sitting, you were wobbly forever, and then one day you just sat all on your own. I have a feeling that’s how you’ll be with crawling and walking too.
Speaking of walking, I’m wondering if you won’t do that and skip crawling altogether. You can already stand up and hold onto things like the coffee table. And you can pick up your feet and move along with one of us holding your hands. It seems to be an easier motion for you than crawling, so we’ll see. You also definitely prefer standing to sitting. But, hey, don’t think I’m rushing you into this mobility thing. Please take your time with that, because mommy and daddy definitely aren’t ready for that yet.
And finally, you’re really chatty now. It started out briefly as bababababababa, then lalalalala. But now, there’s even a bit of dada (and once when daddy walked into the room), but also lots of weird (and loud) noises that aren’t just repetitive. And you enunciate and emphasize “syllables” – not that we understand a word your saying, but you certainly seem to. And you love talking to the girl’s portrait we have hanging next to the couch.
Just wait until next week, when you get to go to the beach for a real vacation
Love,
Mom
P.S. I almost forgot to mention that your top two teeth broke through today. We can't see them without looking, but I did get a good look this afternoon. I know it's time, but I still can't believe it. You're going to look so different, and even more like a little man once those teeth come in.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Six Months
March 31, 2010
Dear J,
Well, you’ve passed the six month mark already, and I can’t believe it. It’s amazing because so much seems to have happened since my last letter. At five months, you started sleeping on your side, but not long after that, you started rolling over all the way onto your belly. This happened right around the time you started eating fruits and veggies, so I’m not sure if it was the rolling over or the food that made the difference in your sleeping habits. But – drumroll – you sleep through the night now, too. Woohooo! You’ve even slept up to 13 hours, but generally it’s 10-12 hours at a clip. Of course, when you don’t feel good, we’re back to waking up around 2 or 3am, but, boy are those mornings when you stay asleep while I’m getting ready for work a revelation.
For a couple days there, you did this insane squeal thing. It’s like you discovered a new part of your voice. (I think you picked it up from one of the six (!) girls in your class. You are totally spoiled, so don’t get used to not having other boys around and enjoy this while it lasts.) I let you know that you had two days of that squealing before it became not cute, and I couldn’t believe it, but you stopped after two days (ok, maybe three).
You have been chewing everything in site and drooling like a bulldog for the last two months, and finally, your bottom gums split on the 20th, and two little front teeth peaked through a couple days later. I do miss your gummy grin, but your toothy grin is pretty darn cute, too.
Did I mention that you LOVE your food – cereal, fruits, veggies, whatever. You can’t get enough. The only food you really haven’t liked so far are the homemade green beans.
There are a couple things to look forward to in the next few months, too. A new playmate is arriving in July, and we can’t wait to meet him! He’s going to be born a long way away in Wisconsin, but he’ll be moving down here with his parents in August or September. We’re all so excited!
You’re also starting swim lessons on June 5th. There are 10 lessons, so you’ll practically be a fish by the time the summer is over.
Your dad and I have realized something in the last couple of months, too. We live for the weekends. I used to think that I loved weekends before you came along, but now there is no comparison. We work from home on Fridays, so they’re like an early weekend “lite”, and then Saturday and Sunday are wonderful because we get to spend all day with you in some way or another. No wonder people hate Mondays. I miss you most on Mondays.
Love,
Mom
Dear J,
Well, you’ve passed the six month mark already, and I can’t believe it. It’s amazing because so much seems to have happened since my last letter. At five months, you started sleeping on your side, but not long after that, you started rolling over all the way onto your belly. This happened right around the time you started eating fruits and veggies, so I’m not sure if it was the rolling over or the food that made the difference in your sleeping habits. But – drumroll – you sleep through the night now, too. Woohooo! You’ve even slept up to 13 hours, but generally it’s 10-12 hours at a clip. Of course, when you don’t feel good, we’re back to waking up around 2 or 3am, but, boy are those mornings when you stay asleep while I’m getting ready for work a revelation.
For a couple days there, you did this insane squeal thing. It’s like you discovered a new part of your voice. (I think you picked it up from one of the six (!) girls in your class. You are totally spoiled, so don’t get used to not having other boys around and enjoy this while it lasts.) I let you know that you had two days of that squealing before it became not cute, and I couldn’t believe it, but you stopped after two days (ok, maybe three).
You have been chewing everything in site and drooling like a bulldog for the last two months, and finally, your bottom gums split on the 20th, and two little front teeth peaked through a couple days later. I do miss your gummy grin, but your toothy grin is pretty darn cute, too.
Did I mention that you LOVE your food – cereal, fruits, veggies, whatever. You can’t get enough. The only food you really haven’t liked so far are the homemade green beans.
There are a couple things to look forward to in the next few months, too. A new playmate is arriving in July, and we can’t wait to meet him! He’s going to be born a long way away in Wisconsin, but he’ll be moving down here with his parents in August or September. We’re all so excited!
You’re also starting swim lessons on June 5th. There are 10 lessons, so you’ll practically be a fish by the time the summer is over.
Your dad and I have realized something in the last couple of months, too. We live for the weekends. I used to think that I loved weekends before you came along, but now there is no comparison. We work from home on Fridays, so they’re like an early weekend “lite”, and then Saturday and Sunday are wonderful because we get to spend all day with you in some way or another. No wonder people hate Mondays. I miss you most on Mondays.
Love,
Mom
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Rules
It seems that the key to a great blog is a great theme. I guess that leaves me out of the running.
Someone on facebook posted a link to this site, and I became completely addicted today until I had read every one. Walker Lamond started writing out quick little rules for his unborn son on his blog, and it's a great list. Good for grown men and really for just about everyone. A few of my favorites:
410. Sometimes your best bet is to bet on her.
405. No one wants to watch you practice the guitar.
358. If you have to make more than one substitution, order something else.
269. If you've made your point, stop talking.
Someone on facebook posted a link to this site, and I became completely addicted today until I had read every one. Walker Lamond started writing out quick little rules for his unborn son on his blog, and it's a great list. Good for grown men and really for just about everyone. A few of my favorites:
410. Sometimes your best bet is to bet on her.
405. No one wants to watch you practice the guitar.
358. If you have to make more than one substitution, order something else.
269. If you've made your point, stop talking.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
The Best Thing I Ever Ate
There's been a show on Food Network lately, asking famous chefs, hosts and food writers about their favorite foods. I've been inspired to create my own list using their categories.
Guilty Pleasures: onion rings - The Varsity (only the original location truly counts)
Wake Up Call: breakfast sandwich (eggs, cheese and bacon) with a side of hash browns scattered, smothered and covered - Waffle House
Hometown Favorites: loose meat hamburger - The Pool Room, Thomaston, GA
Sugar Rush: praline basket filled with ice cream, fresh berries, chocolate syrup and caramel - Ray's on the River
Chocolate: I'm not generally a chocolate dessert person, so this is a candy bar, instead - Escazu dark chocolate with cocoa nibs
Cheesy: Unfortunately, my favorite cheesy dish is no longer available, but the memory of lasagna at the Ram's Head Rathskeller in Chapel Hill, NC, will remain forever.
Hot and Spicy: spicy tuna roll - Circle Sushi, Sandy Springs, GA
The Classics: macaroni and cheese - Swallow at the Hollow, Roswell, GA
Crunchy: Mom's homemade ginger cookies
Totally Fried: all-you-can-eat whole fried catfish - Riverbend Restaurant, Thomaston, GA
Bar-B-Que: family-style plate of brisket, sausage, and pork ribs at the Salt Lick - Driftwood, TX
With Bacon: "Piglickers" - chocolate covered bacon - Famous Dave's, Minnesota State Fair
Pizza: deep dish sausage, mushroom and pepperoni - Giordano's, Chicago
Obsessions: Banana Pudding - Fiery Ron's Hometeam BBQ, West Ashley and Sullivan's Island, SC
Between Bread: the original Chick-fil-A sandwich
With My Hands: fried peach pie - Relish, Roswell, GA
Holiday: my mother-in-law's deviled eggs
Salty Goodness: grilled grouper platter - Apalachicola Grill, Apalachicola, FL
Meat Fest: mustard seed crusted lamb chop - 212 Market Restaurant, Chattanooga, TN
Snack Attack: Fries with Feta - The Grill, Athens, GA
Totally Unexpected: Peanut Butter Bacon Burger - Clocks, Athens, GA
Served Cold: cole slaw - Piggie Park curbside, Thomaston, GA
Guilty Pleasures: onion rings - The Varsity (only the original location truly counts)
Wake Up Call: breakfast sandwich (eggs, cheese and bacon) with a side of hash browns scattered, smothered and covered - Waffle House
Hometown Favorites: loose meat hamburger - The Pool Room, Thomaston, GA
Sugar Rush: praline basket filled with ice cream, fresh berries, chocolate syrup and caramel - Ray's on the River
Chocolate: I'm not generally a chocolate dessert person, so this is a candy bar, instead - Escazu dark chocolate with cocoa nibs
Cheesy: Unfortunately, my favorite cheesy dish is no longer available, but the memory of lasagna at the Ram's Head Rathskeller in Chapel Hill, NC, will remain forever.
Hot and Spicy: spicy tuna roll - Circle Sushi, Sandy Springs, GA
The Classics: macaroni and cheese - Swallow at the Hollow, Roswell, GA
Crunchy: Mom's homemade ginger cookies
Totally Fried: all-you-can-eat whole fried catfish - Riverbend Restaurant, Thomaston, GA
Bar-B-Que: family-style plate of brisket, sausage, and pork ribs at the Salt Lick - Driftwood, TX
With Bacon: "Piglickers" - chocolate covered bacon - Famous Dave's, Minnesota State Fair
Pizza: deep dish sausage, mushroom and pepperoni - Giordano's, Chicago
Obsessions: Banana Pudding - Fiery Ron's Hometeam BBQ, West Ashley and Sullivan's Island, SC
Between Bread: the original Chick-fil-A sandwich
With My Hands: fried peach pie - Relish, Roswell, GA
Holiday: my mother-in-law's deviled eggs
Salty Goodness: grilled grouper platter - Apalachicola Grill, Apalachicola, FL
Meat Fest: mustard seed crusted lamb chop - 212 Market Restaurant, Chattanooga, TN
Snack Attack: Fries with Feta - The Grill, Athens, GA
Totally Unexpected: Peanut Butter Bacon Burger - Clocks, Athens, GA
Served Cold: cole slaw - Piggie Park curbside, Thomaston, GA
Wednesday, March 03, 2010
5 Month Letter
February 24, 2010
Dear J,
You’re asleep in your bouncy seat, just wiped out from the day. You only took one nap today because you’ve been really good the last couple nights about getting yourself back to sleep when you wake up in the middle of the night.
You had a horrible cold last week and something called bronchiolitis that forced you to struggle for breath. It was so excruciating to watch. The illness did have one awesome side effect, though. You couldn’t sleep flat on your back because of the cough, so I got to snuggle with you on the couch, keeping you upright, for three nights. And we didn’t want you to go to daycare, so you got to spend all week with your Gigi.
You’ve been so adorable this last month. If it’s possible, you’re getting even more animated. You just smile and laugh all the time (except when you’re sick), and you’ve even started reaching out to people when they walk up to you and you want to be picked up or held.
“Solid” foods have been treating you very well. So far you’ve like rice and oatmeal cereal. Tonight we even tried some green beans, and you seemed to like those too.
Even when I’m exhausted, every day with you is a wonder. Your smile stops me in my tracks every time. And I love that you still love to snuggle. I hope that lasts.
Love,
Mom
P.S. Since it’s March 3, and I'm just getting around to posting this, I have a few more things to add …
You are now grabbing for your bottle whenever you see it – even if it’s three feet away. And you open your mouth so wide when you see the veggies coming your way. You love the new foods you’re getting at night.
You’ve started rolling over onto your side, which you love. You have even managed to get your bottom arm out and lie flat on your belly, but you are not a fan of this position at all.
You have full head control these days and seem to love to turn your head to look at things – especially people. When you sit in my lap while I read your story at night, you are constantly looking from the book, back up to me and back to the book.
You love to grab our faces, especially my bottom lip and Daddy’s beard.
And for the last week, you have been sleeping through the night. For the first five days, you would wake up to cry but get yourself back to sleep in less than 10 minutes. Last night, for the first time, you didn’t even wake up to cry. After getting a two-ounce top-off at 11, you made until just after 6. Woohoo!
Dear J,
You’re asleep in your bouncy seat, just wiped out from the day. You only took one nap today because you’ve been really good the last couple nights about getting yourself back to sleep when you wake up in the middle of the night.
You had a horrible cold last week and something called bronchiolitis that forced you to struggle for breath. It was so excruciating to watch. The illness did have one awesome side effect, though. You couldn’t sleep flat on your back because of the cough, so I got to snuggle with you on the couch, keeping you upright, for three nights. And we didn’t want you to go to daycare, so you got to spend all week with your Gigi.
You’ve been so adorable this last month. If it’s possible, you’re getting even more animated. You just smile and laugh all the time (except when you’re sick), and you’ve even started reaching out to people when they walk up to you and you want to be picked up or held.
“Solid” foods have been treating you very well. So far you’ve like rice and oatmeal cereal. Tonight we even tried some green beans, and you seemed to like those too.
Even when I’m exhausted, every day with you is a wonder. Your smile stops me in my tracks every time. And I love that you still love to snuggle. I hope that lasts.
Love,
Mom
P.S. Since it’s March 3, and I'm just getting around to posting this, I have a few more things to add …
You are now grabbing for your bottle whenever you see it – even if it’s three feet away. And you open your mouth so wide when you see the veggies coming your way. You love the new foods you’re getting at night.
You’ve started rolling over onto your side, which you love. You have even managed to get your bottom arm out and lie flat on your belly, but you are not a fan of this position at all.
You have full head control these days and seem to love to turn your head to look at things – especially people. When you sit in my lap while I read your story at night, you are constantly looking from the book, back up to me and back to the book.
You love to grab our faces, especially my bottom lip and Daddy’s beard.
And for the last week, you have been sleeping through the night. For the first five days, you would wake up to cry but get yourself back to sleep in less than 10 minutes. Last night, for the first time, you didn’t even wake up to cry. After getting a two-ounce top-off at 11, you made until just after 6. Woohoo!
Saturday, February 20, 2010
SNL
Saturday Night Live is always hit or miss for me. It's always been that way, even when it was considered great. Honestly, coming up with 90 minutes worth of funny sketches has to be impossible (yeah, probably only 50 minutes if you take out commercial time and musical performances, but still). I suspect that even in the 70s, it was still hit-or-miss, it's just that we've only seen the "best of" those years for the last 30 years, so we all think it was hilarious all the time. Anwyay ...
A couple weeks ago, there was a skit that is still cracking me up: Hamm and Buble Restaurant with Jon Hamm and Michael Buble.
A couple weeks ago, there was a skit that is still cracking me up: Hamm and Buble Restaurant with Jon Hamm and Michael Buble.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Movies
I was watching Princess Bride last weekend for the hundredth time, at least, and realized there was nothing about it I would change. That then got me thinking about a list (I love lists). More movies in the same category:
Casablanca
Sixteen Candles
Harvey
Auntie Mame
Sliding Doors
O Brother Where Art Thou
Layer Cake
Lost in Translation
These are just off the top of my head. I'm sure there are at least a couple more.
Casablanca
Sixteen Candles
Harvey
Auntie Mame
Sliding Doors
O Brother Where Art Thou
Layer Cake
Lost in Translation
These are just off the top of my head. I'm sure there are at least a couple more.
Saturday, February 06, 2010
Stossel
I've always enjoyed John Stossel on 20/20, and now he has his own show on Fox Business. He has definite libertarian leanings, and so far, every show has been great.
He did another show this week that's well worth watching. Things are actually getting better!
If you can catch the whole show (it will rerun several times this week), I highly recommend it.
He did another show this week that's well worth watching. Things are actually getting better!
If you can catch the whole show (it will rerun several times this week), I highly recommend it.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Pet Peeve
I read this today and just have to vent. It's a big pet peeve of mine when company leaders extol the strength of their organizations while discussing plans to lay off workers.
What BS
Separately, Home Depot (HD, Fortune 500) also announced Tuesday that it plans to cut jobs. CEO Frank Blake said in a memo to Home Depot employees the company will eliminate 1,000 jobs nationwide.
"We are a strong company, and we are taking the necessary actions to make us even stronger as our business builds momentum," said Blake.
What BS
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Four Months
January 19, 2010
Dear J,
I’m a little ahead of the ball here, because your birthday isn’t until Sunday. But I’m sitting here, missing you while I’m at work, and I have the opportunity to write my thoughts down. A lot has happened in the last month. You had your first Christmas and New Year. It’s 2010, and you’ll turn one this year. But I’m getting way ahead of myself. You started daycare, which means you’ve gotten your first cold. You also went to your first wedding.
As for daycare, you really do seem to enjoy it, which sure makes it a lot easier on your dad and me. You even get to stay with GiGi one day a week and she loves spending that day with you.
You seem to be so happy most of the time. If you’re not hungry, tired, or sitting in a dirty diaper, then you’re smiling and laughing. You can sit up in your Bumbo seat really well. Your eyes have started to change to brown/hazel, and I think a couple teeth may even be coming in. Oh, and you chat all the time, too. We adore that, even though you’re really the only one who knows what you’re saying.
I almost forgot! You were baptized, too. A whole lot of family and friends came together – from as far away as Boston – to celebrate with us. That’s how you got to meet your Godmother, Aunt Cheryl.
You are so loved, and my greatest wish for you is that you know it and never have reason to question it.
And finally, I swear you said “hi” to me last week. (OK, I know you didn't really, but you mimicked me really well when I said "Hi" to you.)
Love,
Mom
Dear J,
I’m a little ahead of the ball here, because your birthday isn’t until Sunday. But I’m sitting here, missing you while I’m at work, and I have the opportunity to write my thoughts down. A lot has happened in the last month. You had your first Christmas and New Year. It’s 2010, and you’ll turn one this year. But I’m getting way ahead of myself. You started daycare, which means you’ve gotten your first cold. You also went to your first wedding.
As for daycare, you really do seem to enjoy it, which sure makes it a lot easier on your dad and me. You even get to stay with GiGi one day a week and she loves spending that day with you.
You seem to be so happy most of the time. If you’re not hungry, tired, or sitting in a dirty diaper, then you’re smiling and laughing. You can sit up in your Bumbo seat really well. Your eyes have started to change to brown/hazel, and I think a couple teeth may even be coming in. Oh, and you chat all the time, too. We adore that, even though you’re really the only one who knows what you’re saying.
I almost forgot! You were baptized, too. A whole lot of family and friends came together – from as far away as Boston – to celebrate with us. That’s how you got to meet your Godmother, Aunt Cheryl.
You are so loved, and my greatest wish for you is that you know it and never have reason to question it.
And finally, I swear you said “hi” to me last week. (OK, I know you didn't really, but you mimicked me really well when I said "Hi" to you.)
Love,
Mom
Thursday, December 31, 2009
2009 in Entertainment
Wow, I've managed to keep a theme for two whole posts. This is 2009 in review, from an entertainment perspective...
Movies:
The Spirit
Boondock Saints*
Hellboy II
Oceans Twelve
Th Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor
Dr. T & the Women
Defiance
Born into Brothels*
Thank You for Smoking*
Lakeview Terrace
The Fall*
Underworld: Rise of the Lycans
Ghost Town*
Zack and Miri Make a Porno
Neverwas
Stargate
Erin Brockovich*
Coraline
Two for the Road
Love and Basketball*
Get Smart
The Hoax
Watchmen*
Pinapple Express
Role Models*
Akeelah and the Bee*
Let the Right One In*
The Professional*
Slumdog Millionaire*
X-Men Origins: Wolverine
To Die For
Angels & Insects
Star Trek*
Inventing the Abbotts
Angels and Demons
Three to Tango
Terminator: Salvation
Capote
He's Just Not That Into You*
Outlander
The Proposal*
Transformers 2: Rise of the Fallen
Surfer, Dude
Waltz with Bashir*
Public Enemies
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince*
Taken*
Valkyrie*
Volver*
Repo: The Genetic Opera
Transporter 3*
Lovers of the Arctic Circle
Push
District 9*
GI Joe
Appaloosa
Knowing*
Au Revoir, les Enfants*
Nick and Nora's Infinite Playlist
Inglourious Basterds*
Redbelt*
9
Jane Austen Book Club
The Greatest Game Ever Played
Thomas Crown Affair (1968)
That Thing You Do
Tsotsi*
I Love You, Man
New in Town
Defending Your Life
The Hunger
24 Hour Party People
The Other Boleyn Girl
Idiocracy
Twilight Saga: New Moon
No Country for Old Men*
The Visitor*
Up*
Saving Grace*
American Splendor
Bride & Prejudice
Persepolis
Travel:
Raleigh/Durham, NC
Tarpon Springs, FL
Chicago, IL
Charleston/Mt. Pleasant, SC - July
Charleston/Mt. Pleasant, SC - December
Books:
Love in the Time of Cholera, Gabriel Garcia-Marquez
Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen*
The Historian
The Time Traveler's Wife
Your Pregnancy, Week by Week*
What to Expect When You're Expecting
The Happiest Baby on the Block
To Have and Have Not, Ernest Hemingway*
The Politically Incorrect Guide to the South
Live Music:
Reckless Kelly, Variety Playhouse, Atlanta
Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Hall, Atlanta - Gilbert Varga Conducting
Zoltan Kodaly - Dances of Galanta
Jean Sibelius - Concerto for Violin & Orch. in D. Minor, Opus 47
Leonidas Karakos, Violin
Johannes Brahms - Symphony No. 2 in D Major, Opus 73
George Clinton and the P-Funk Allstars, Variety Playhouse, Atlanta
Dave Matthews Band, Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, Alpharetta
Avett Brothers, Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, Alpharetta (opening for DMB)
Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, Alpharetta
Rossi - Barber of Seville
Orff - Carmina Burana
Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, Alpharetta
July 4 Celebration
Reckless Kelly, The Peachtree Tavern, Atlanta
Lyle Lovett and His Large Band, The Tabernacle, Atlanta
Bela Fleck and the Flecktones, North Charleston Performing Arts Center, Charleston
Cool Stuff:
Learned to ride and got motorcycle license
(less than two weeks before finding out I was pregnant)
Um, well, had a baby boy
*indicates a favorite movie or book.
Noticably absent are CDs purchased. I forgot to keep track of those this year, and bought a LOT at the used CD store (I think I may have done separate posts). So starting in 2010, I'll keep track of that, too. I expect it to be a shorter list in the future, though, but we'll see.
I did get the new Dave Matthews CD, Big Whiskey and the Groo Grux King, and it is amazing. Just off the top of my head, that would be my favorite CD of the year. Oh, I also got the new Lyle Lovett, Natural Forces, but DMB is still my favorite this year.
Movies:
The Spirit
Boondock Saints*
Hellboy II
Oceans Twelve
Th Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor
Dr. T & the Women
Defiance
Born into Brothels*
Thank You for Smoking*
Lakeview Terrace
The Fall*
Underworld: Rise of the Lycans
Ghost Town*
Zack and Miri Make a Porno
Neverwas
Stargate
Erin Brockovich*
Coraline
Two for the Road
Love and Basketball*
Get Smart
The Hoax
Watchmen*
Pinapple Express
Role Models*
Akeelah and the Bee*
Let the Right One In*
The Professional*
Slumdog Millionaire*
X-Men Origins: Wolverine
To Die For
Angels & Insects
Star Trek*
Inventing the Abbotts
Angels and Demons
Three to Tango
Terminator: Salvation
Capote
He's Just Not That Into You*
Outlander
The Proposal*
Transformers 2: Rise of the Fallen
Surfer, Dude
Waltz with Bashir*
Public Enemies
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince*
Taken*
Valkyrie*
Volver*
Repo: The Genetic Opera
Transporter 3*
Lovers of the Arctic Circle
Push
District 9*
GI Joe
Appaloosa
Knowing*
Au Revoir, les Enfants*
Nick and Nora's Infinite Playlist
Inglourious Basterds*
Redbelt*
9
Jane Austen Book Club
The Greatest Game Ever Played
Thomas Crown Affair (1968)
That Thing You Do
Tsotsi*
I Love You, Man
New in Town
Defending Your Life
The Hunger
24 Hour Party People
The Other Boleyn Girl
Idiocracy
Twilight Saga: New Moon
No Country for Old Men*
The Visitor*
Up*
Saving Grace*
American Splendor
Bride & Prejudice
Persepolis
Travel:
Raleigh/Durham, NC
Tarpon Springs, FL
Chicago, IL
Charleston/Mt. Pleasant, SC - July
Charleston/Mt. Pleasant, SC - December
Books:
Love in the Time of Cholera, Gabriel Garcia-Marquez
Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen*
The Historian
The Time Traveler's Wife
Your Pregnancy, Week by Week*
What to Expect When You're Expecting
The Happiest Baby on the Block
To Have and Have Not, Ernest Hemingway*
The Politically Incorrect Guide to the South
Live Music:
Reckless Kelly, Variety Playhouse, Atlanta
Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Hall, Atlanta - Gilbert Varga Conducting
Zoltan Kodaly - Dances of Galanta
Jean Sibelius - Concerto for Violin & Orch. in D. Minor, Opus 47
Leonidas Karakos, Violin
Johannes Brahms - Symphony No. 2 in D Major, Opus 73
George Clinton and the P-Funk Allstars, Variety Playhouse, Atlanta
Dave Matthews Band, Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, Alpharetta
Avett Brothers, Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, Alpharetta (opening for DMB)
Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, Alpharetta
Rossi - Barber of Seville
Orff - Carmina Burana
Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, Alpharetta
July 4 Celebration
Reckless Kelly, The Peachtree Tavern, Atlanta
Lyle Lovett and His Large Band, The Tabernacle, Atlanta
Bela Fleck and the Flecktones, North Charleston Performing Arts Center, Charleston
Cool Stuff:
Learned to ride and got motorcycle license
(less than two weeks before finding out I was pregnant)
Um, well, had a baby boy
*indicates a favorite movie or book.
Noticably absent are CDs purchased. I forgot to keep track of those this year, and bought a LOT at the used CD store (I think I may have done separate posts). So starting in 2010, I'll keep track of that, too. I expect it to be a shorter list in the future, though, but we'll see.
I did get the new Dave Matthews CD, Big Whiskey and the Groo Grux King, and it is amazing. Just off the top of my head, that would be my favorite CD of the year. Oh, I also got the new Lyle Lovett, Natural Forces, but DMB is still my favorite this year.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
J's Three Month Letter
December 29, 2009
Dear J,
Today is my second day back at work, and I miss your smile so much during the day. I even miss your frown, your pouty bottom lip, and your cries. But it hasn’t been as hard as I thought it would be. I know that you are waiting for me when I get home, and that makes my time away from you OK. I think it also helps that I know you’re home with your daddy this week. That’s a nice way to ease into this new arrangement.
Next week you start daycare, and I know they are going to take great care of you. It’s going to be hard, too, but here’s the way I figure it: we are simply loaning you to them three days a week. You are such an amazing little being that it’s our obligation to share you with the world, and, right now, the part of the world we will share you with is the group of people at Brookside Academy. Your daddy thinks that they should actually be paying us for the privilege of spending time with you each day.
You smile all the time now, and your laugh is hilarious, because you can’t quite laugh yet. You just do this big inhale thing, and the breath gets caught in your throat. You even chatter a bit now, especially when you’re hungry. You just babble on (loudly) until that bottle arrives.
You sit up pretty well with the help of your new Bumbo seat, and you’re loving the bouncy seat with its little animals that dangle from above and make noise when you shake them. Christmas was nice, but not overkill, since you’re a bit too young to understand it all anyway. You got some cute clothes, a couple toys, a Peanuts book, and your Great Aunt Becky sent a sign that we’ll hang in your room:
Boy: (noun), a noise with dirt on it
I’m so excited for the days when that is really true, but for now, I’m enjoying every minute of right now – because it’s already flying by.
Love,
Mom
Dear J,
Today is my second day back at work, and I miss your smile so much during the day. I even miss your frown, your pouty bottom lip, and your cries. But it hasn’t been as hard as I thought it would be. I know that you are waiting for me when I get home, and that makes my time away from you OK. I think it also helps that I know you’re home with your daddy this week. That’s a nice way to ease into this new arrangement.
Next week you start daycare, and I know they are going to take great care of you. It’s going to be hard, too, but here’s the way I figure it: we are simply loaning you to them three days a week. You are such an amazing little being that it’s our obligation to share you with the world, and, right now, the part of the world we will share you with is the group of people at Brookside Academy. Your daddy thinks that they should actually be paying us for the privilege of spending time with you each day.
You smile all the time now, and your laugh is hilarious, because you can’t quite laugh yet. You just do this big inhale thing, and the breath gets caught in your throat. You even chatter a bit now, especially when you’re hungry. You just babble on (loudly) until that bottle arrives.
You sit up pretty well with the help of your new Bumbo seat, and you’re loving the bouncy seat with its little animals that dangle from above and make noise when you shake them. Christmas was nice, but not overkill, since you’re a bit too young to understand it all anyway. You got some cute clothes, a couple toys, a Peanuts book, and your Great Aunt Becky sent a sign that we’ll hang in your room:
Boy: (noun), a noise with dirt on it
I’m so excited for the days when that is really true, but for now, I’m enjoying every minute of right now – because it’s already flying by.
Love,
Mom
Wednesday, December 02, 2009
Two Months (already?)
December 2, 2009
Dear J,
You’re napping, and I’m just going to ignore laundry, dirty bottles, the mail, and packing for a few minutes, so that I can write you this letter. It’s a week late, but that’s the way things go these days. You’re two months and one week old today, and it’s strange to say, but the time has both flown and crawled by.
You went to the doctor last week, and you were less than an ounce shy of 13 pounds. It seems that it takes most children four months or more to get to that weight, so I must say – well done! The doctor said to just keep doing what we’re doing. Everything looks good.
You’ve been doing the cutest things, too. For about a week or two, anytime you sneezed or coughed, when you were done, you would coo while you exhaled. The description doesn’t do it justice; it was just about the cutest thing I’ve seen. You’re really smiling all the time now, and you have even started laughing. Most of the time the laugh is silent, but sometimes there’s even an audible chuckle in there.
You love your activity mat, but not when you’re on your tummy. I’ve discovered that rolling you onto your tummy is the best way to turn you from smiling to red, wrinkle-faced screaming in three seconds flat.
A friend at work told me something that her friend told her, and I have to put it here because it’s absolutely the truth. As a parent, you think you’ve just seen the coolest or cutest or most wonderful thing, but the next day, there will be something even better. The best thing about having children is that every day is better than the day before.
Then it was Thanksgiving, which has taken on a whole new meaning now that you’re in our lives. Frankly, it’s not just Thanksgiving, it’s pretty much everything, but Thanksgiving was a great time to reflect on your place with us. That’s understating it. You are our lives now; everything is reflected in or upon you somehow, and it’s a beautiful feeling. The joy you bring is immeasurable.
It seems that you’re already waking up from your nap, so I’ve got to run. I love you, and can’t wait for what tomorrow brings – Charleston and your first road trip, as a matter of fact.
Love,
Mom
Dear J,
You’re napping, and I’m just going to ignore laundry, dirty bottles, the mail, and packing for a few minutes, so that I can write you this letter. It’s a week late, but that’s the way things go these days. You’re two months and one week old today, and it’s strange to say, but the time has both flown and crawled by.
You went to the doctor last week, and you were less than an ounce shy of 13 pounds. It seems that it takes most children four months or more to get to that weight, so I must say – well done! The doctor said to just keep doing what we’re doing. Everything looks good.
You’ve been doing the cutest things, too. For about a week or two, anytime you sneezed or coughed, when you were done, you would coo while you exhaled. The description doesn’t do it justice; it was just about the cutest thing I’ve seen. You’re really smiling all the time now, and you have even started laughing. Most of the time the laugh is silent, but sometimes there’s even an audible chuckle in there.
You love your activity mat, but not when you’re on your tummy. I’ve discovered that rolling you onto your tummy is the best way to turn you from smiling to red, wrinkle-faced screaming in three seconds flat.
A friend at work told me something that her friend told her, and I have to put it here because it’s absolutely the truth. As a parent, you think you’ve just seen the coolest or cutest or most wonderful thing, but the next day, there will be something even better. The best thing about having children is that every day is better than the day before.
Then it was Thanksgiving, which has taken on a whole new meaning now that you’re in our lives. Frankly, it’s not just Thanksgiving, it’s pretty much everything, but Thanksgiving was a great time to reflect on your place with us. That’s understating it. You are our lives now; everything is reflected in or upon you somehow, and it’s a beautiful feeling. The joy you bring is immeasurable.
It seems that you’re already waking up from your nap, so I’ve got to run. I love you, and can’t wait for what tomorrow brings – Charleston and your first road trip, as a matter of fact.
Love,
Mom
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Time for an update
There is of course tons to update, but not much time to do it. I hope to have a more detailed "J" post next week when he's two months old, but for now, I will just say that last night's Lyle Lovett show at the Tabernacle was amazing. I'm not sure I can see him at Chastain again and enjoy it. The sound at the Tabernacle is just so amazing that I'm now completely spoiled.
It was interesting, because even though his "Large Band" was with him, there were no horns, so the show was decidedly more mellow than usual. The few songs they played that usually have horns were arranged with strings playing the horn parts instead - which was different, but really fantastic.
A favorite lyric from one of his new songs, Natural Forces:
And now as I sit here safe at home
With a cold Coors Light and the TV on
All the sacrifice and death and war
Lord I pray that I'm worth fighting for
It was interesting, because even though his "Large Band" was with him, there were no horns, so the show was decidedly more mellow than usual. The few songs they played that usually have horns were arranged with strings playing the horn parts instead - which was different, but really fantastic.
A favorite lyric from one of his new songs, Natural Forces:
And now as I sit here safe at home
With a cold Coors Light and the TV on
All the sacrifice and death and war
Lord I pray that I'm worth fighting for
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Four Weeks
Hey Little Man,
Today you are four weeks old, and you are beautiful. You've been beautiful since the day you were born, but you manage to get more precious every day. I don't understand it, but it's fantastic.
I completely understand now how parents spoil their children by not being able to say "no" to them. All I want is for you to have everything you want in life.
I don't think these entries will be very long, but there are times when I have to write what I'm thinking. And today is one of those days.
A few minutes ago, I looked at you lying in your Nana's arms, and I was absolutely overcome with love for you. You are the most wonderful thing in the world.
Love,
Mom
Today you are four weeks old, and you are beautiful. You've been beautiful since the day you were born, but you manage to get more precious every day. I don't understand it, but it's fantastic.
I completely understand now how parents spoil their children by not being able to say "no" to them. All I want is for you to have everything you want in life.
I don't think these entries will be very long, but there are times when I have to write what I'm thinking. And today is one of those days.
A few minutes ago, I looked at you lying in your Nana's arms, and I was absolutely overcome with love for you. You are the most wonderful thing in the world.
Love,
Mom
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
J's Birthday Notes
So, my epidural worked like a charm and I was also lucky enough to get it before any real bad contractions started, which allowed me to text friends during labor, and also to keep notes of how it all went down. I didn't keep them in proper grammar, etc, but kind of shorthand. I have at least fixed any spelling mistakes. Here's what happened:
38w6d
Dr. at 9-ish AM
membranes stripped (was 4-5cm last week and 80%, so we're ready to go if we want to)
5-6cm, 80%, -1
sent to hospital
signed in
paperwork
iv with pitocin by 11:20
hungry already - this isn't good but I'll deal with it
a few contractions here and there
one in particular is sharp, but short
one long one, but not painful
11:45 epidural's on its way
midwife here between 12:15 and 12:45 to break water
12:40 epidural done
12:57 water broke on its own
labor without any pain until 8:00
contractions ev 2-3 min. cervix opening and ev looks good - except he's still up hi at -1 and midwife sees that he seems to be sunny-side up with his head turned to the side. she calls doc on call to confirm. he does.
sometime during all this, i start getting itchy all over - like wearing a wool sweater from head to toe. apparently, this is a side effect of the epidural.
at first it's not unbearable, but soon i can't handle it and they give me something in my iv to stop it.
then the nausea kicks in, which i heard about. again, not bad at first, just the feeling of being hung over. but as soon as i mention the word, the hunt for a pan beings.
not a moment too soon either because the need to throw up just comes over me like a wave and i begin.
a couple rounds of it - nothing but water - and the post-puking adrenaline kicks in.
i feel much better,
then they also trhow some zofran into the iv, my old friend from the first few months.
start pushing at 8, but doc and midwife still worried about J's station and ability to come down
push until 8:45 and j decends each time, but then goes right back up to where he started.
his heart rate starts decelerating with the contractions, and I get a fever - 100.7
all of this combined pushes us to a decision to do a c-section - scheduled for 9:20.
time to get the higher epidural dose in from the anesthesiologist and they are ready.
(from here, I wrote the details after he was born)
j's head majorly stuck, requiring two docs to break the suction and get him out.
dave said he could hear it when they broke it, then they got him out
9:48pm, 7lb 11oz, 18 3/4 in
The sewing me up seemed to take an age and a half, and in the meantime, shivers start.
i had also heard about these, but wow. i don't think i've ever felt so out of control of my own body between the temporary paralysis brought on by the epidural and then this shaking that lasted for about 90 min or so after.
it's funny, but the only thing that seemed to make it stop was when they finally laid little j on my chest in the recovery room
it was probably just a coincidence of the timing, but i'm happy to give him credit.
38w6d
Dr. at 9-ish AM
membranes stripped (was 4-5cm last week and 80%, so we're ready to go if we want to)
5-6cm, 80%, -1
sent to hospital
signed in
paperwork
iv with pitocin by 11:20
hungry already - this isn't good but I'll deal with it
a few contractions here and there
one in particular is sharp, but short
one long one, but not painful
11:45 epidural's on its way
midwife here between 12:15 and 12:45 to break water
12:40 epidural done
12:57 water broke on its own
labor without any pain until 8:00
contractions ev 2-3 min. cervix opening and ev looks good - except he's still up hi at -1 and midwife sees that he seems to be sunny-side up with his head turned to the side. she calls doc on call to confirm. he does.
sometime during all this, i start getting itchy all over - like wearing a wool sweater from head to toe. apparently, this is a side effect of the epidural.
at first it's not unbearable, but soon i can't handle it and they give me something in my iv to stop it.
then the nausea kicks in, which i heard about. again, not bad at first, just the feeling of being hung over. but as soon as i mention the word, the hunt for a pan beings.
not a moment too soon either because the need to throw up just comes over me like a wave and i begin.
a couple rounds of it - nothing but water - and the post-puking adrenaline kicks in.
i feel much better,
then they also trhow some zofran into the iv, my old friend from the first few months.
start pushing at 8, but doc and midwife still worried about J's station and ability to come down
push until 8:45 and j decends each time, but then goes right back up to where he started.
his heart rate starts decelerating with the contractions, and I get a fever - 100.7
all of this combined pushes us to a decision to do a c-section - scheduled for 9:20.
time to get the higher epidural dose in from the anesthesiologist and they are ready.
(from here, I wrote the details after he was born)
j's head majorly stuck, requiring two docs to break the suction and get him out.
dave said he could hear it when they broke it, then they got him out
9:48pm, 7lb 11oz, 18 3/4 in
The sewing me up seemed to take an age and a half, and in the meantime, shivers start.
i had also heard about these, but wow. i don't think i've ever felt so out of control of my own body between the temporary paralysis brought on by the epidural and then this shaking that lasted for about 90 min or so after.
it's funny, but the only thing that seemed to make it stop was when they finally laid little j on my chest in the recovery room
it was probably just a coincidence of the timing, but i'm happy to give him credit.
Monday, October 05, 2009
pushing my luck
J's been asleep now for almost three hours, so I'm pushing my luck in trying to get something posted here.
Just wanted to say how wonderful this whole experience has been, in spite of the c-section stuff. That's no fun, but I'd do it again tomorrow if it meant getting another little munchkin like this one. He's just the most wonderful thing in the world.
I could stare at him all day, hold him all day, and kiss him all day. In case you're wondering, my favorite place to kiss is the little valley above his nose - right between his eyes.
Oh, and I kept a little log while the labor stuff was going on, since I didn't feel anything, thanks to the lovely epidural. I may post that in the next few days/weeks, if I get the opportunity.
Just wanted to say how wonderful this whole experience has been, in spite of the c-section stuff. That's no fun, but I'd do it again tomorrow if it meant getting another little munchkin like this one. He's just the most wonderful thing in the world.
I could stare at him all day, hold him all day, and kiss him all day. In case you're wondering, my favorite place to kiss is the little valley above his nose - right between his eyes.
Oh, and I kept a little log while the labor stuff was going on, since I didn't feel anything, thanks to the lovely epidural. I may post that in the next few days/weeks, if I get the opportunity.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
What may be the last update for a while
The baby's room is almost done - everything in except the changing table. Many people ask us if we have a theme. Clearly, these people don't know us very well. Dave and I aren't really theme people when it comes to decorating - unless that theme is "eclectic." See the pics.
And now we're at the "any day now" phase, officially. We went to the doctor's office on Thursday, and I'm very close, so our midwife told me that if I haven't gone into labor by this Thursday, that she'll admit me and we'll "get things started". She wants me closer to 39 weeks, but doesn't want me to miss my epidural window. So, this time next week, I'll be a mom. Wow.
We're doing our best to enjoy this weekend without plans and without having to think about much else beyond what we want to do next - oh and sleep - since it will be the last weekend where we can do either for quite some time.
And now we're at the "any day now" phase, officially. We went to the doctor's office on Thursday, and I'm very close, so our midwife told me that if I haven't gone into labor by this Thursday, that she'll admit me and we'll "get things started". She wants me closer to 39 weeks, but doesn't want me to miss my epidural window. So, this time next week, I'll be a mom. Wow.
We're doing our best to enjoy this weekend without plans and without having to think about much else beyond what we want to do next - oh and sleep - since it will be the last weekend where we can do either for quite some time.
Monday, August 24, 2009
What an Adventure
Wow, this week has been something to behold. I just don't have the energy to go through all the details, but here's the breakdown.
Garage - finished and wonderful.
The baby shower yesterday was wonderful. I can't believe how many people came in from out of town to help celebrate. And my friends' generosity (of time, love and yes, "stuff") leaves me speechless.
And the biggest event of all - three full days at Northside Hospital last week - due to a strange bout with pneumonia. Monday night after dinner, I began to feel very uncomfortable - achy and such - and then spiked a fever that reached 101.65. The fever broke in the middle of the night, but I still felt awful on Tuesday morning. Thanks to all the publicity about pregnant women and the swine flu, I was a bit nervous and called the doctor. They told me to go to Labor and Delivery. We walked in and were promptly given masks, and then I was treated to a whole host of pokes and prods (at least seven blood draws and an IV). Once various flu strains were ruled out, I was given a chest x-ray and told that I had pneumonia, regardless of there being no cough or congestion of any kind that week or weekend. I would be let go once my white blood count came down.
It did come down by Wednesday night, so I thought I would be going home Thursday, but then J. decided to get in on the act, and throughout Wednesday night/Thursday morning, every couple of hours when I'd have a contraction (something else I didn't realize I was having), his heart rate would drop. This happened three or four times throughout the night (resulting in my being connected not only to an IV and leg compression sleeves, but also a pulse oxymeter, oxygen mask, baby monitor, and contraction monitor - and therefore feeling completely tied down and bordering on a panic attack at midnight). So even though I seemed all mended, the doctors wanted me to stay one more night and make sure he didn't do that again. Thursday passed without incident, and Friday I was told to go home, rest, stay out of the heat and drink tons of water.
Although I do feel much better, I am amazed at how quickly I get tired. Yesterday's shower absolutely wore me out, even though I really just sat around, ate and opened gifts. I had to nap today, too. Thank goodness I had already taken the day off to see my friend safely to the airport. I'm a little nervous about tomorrow - my first day back at work in a week.
Garage - finished and wonderful.
The baby shower yesterday was wonderful. I can't believe how many people came in from out of town to help celebrate. And my friends' generosity (of time, love and yes, "stuff") leaves me speechless.
And the biggest event of all - three full days at Northside Hospital last week - due to a strange bout with pneumonia. Monday night after dinner, I began to feel very uncomfortable - achy and such - and then spiked a fever that reached 101.65. The fever broke in the middle of the night, but I still felt awful on Tuesday morning. Thanks to all the publicity about pregnant women and the swine flu, I was a bit nervous and called the doctor. They told me to go to Labor and Delivery. We walked in and were promptly given masks, and then I was treated to a whole host of pokes and prods (at least seven blood draws and an IV). Once various flu strains were ruled out, I was given a chest x-ray and told that I had pneumonia, regardless of there being no cough or congestion of any kind that week or weekend. I would be let go once my white blood count came down.
It did come down by Wednesday night, so I thought I would be going home Thursday, but then J. decided to get in on the act, and throughout Wednesday night/Thursday morning, every couple of hours when I'd have a contraction (something else I didn't realize I was having), his heart rate would drop. This happened three or four times throughout the night (resulting in my being connected not only to an IV and leg compression sleeves, but also a pulse oxymeter, oxygen mask, baby monitor, and contraction monitor - and therefore feeling completely tied down and bordering on a panic attack at midnight). So even though I seemed all mended, the doctors wanted me to stay one more night and make sure he didn't do that again. Thursday passed without incident, and Friday I was told to go home, rest, stay out of the heat and drink tons of water.
Although I do feel much better, I am amazed at how quickly I get tired. Yesterday's shower absolutely wore me out, even though I really just sat around, ate and opened gifts. I had to nap today, too. Thank goodness I had already taken the day off to see my friend safely to the airport. I'm a little nervous about tomorrow - my first day back at work in a week.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Updates
Well, we're seven weeks out, and the house projects are moving along. We didn't get quite as much done as we had hoped last weekend, though. We've waved the white flag on the garage door installation, and someone will be coming out next week (hopefully) to finish it up for us. It's already amazing, though, because Dave did an incredible job cleaning out the two rooms while I was at my shower last weekend. I'll have more pictures a little later.
We went to see District 9 last night, and it was incredible. It's wonderfully different. I never knew what was going to happen next. It was very moving, which I didn't expect.
We went to see District 9 last night, and it was incredible. It's wonderfully different. I never knew what was going to happen next. It was very moving, which I didn't expect.
Saturday, August 01, 2009
House Project
In preparation for J's arrival, we're doing a bit of a construction project on the house - converting the enclosed garage back into a real garage. Here is the first day of major work.
I'm too ashamed to show many of the before pictures because the old garage and workroom had really become dumping grounds worthy of Clean Sweep or some other TV show. There are a few I'm OK with posting, though.
Before
The "inside" section of the garage. Notice the garage windows on the right. From the front of the house, it still looks like a normal garage.
more on the "inside" section. that wall behind the shelves is coming down.
Virtually empty dumpster at the start of the project. You see, though, we're even throwing out the kitchen sink.
Left side facing the house - this is the "outside" part of the garage. This is the side that can be accessed by the actual garage door.
The doors are wood and more than 20 years old. It's definitely time they were replaced. Insulated steel this time around. Those pictures will come later - hopefully next weekend.
Right side door. This is the one that doesn't actually open and is dry-walled from the inside.
The inside of the outside access section.
During
Back wall of the "outside" section coming out.
Say "hi" to Dave.
Notice that they did actually frame a door in here, but they decided to drywall over it. So we've never had access to the inside of the house from the garage.
One wall out!
Second wall on its way down.
The inside looking out - a view we've never had.
Now we can see the other half of the garage.
After
Second wall gone!
We still need to demo the inside wall on the other side but won't do that until we're ready to install the new door.
Dumpster half-full after only one day!
We still have to go through a lot of the stuff and reorganize/throw away/give away, but we made a huge amount of progress today. Today was demolition day. Tomorrow is either reorganization or replacing one of the doors. We haven't really figured out which yet. And then next weekend is the last of the demolition and final door replacement.
I'm too ashamed to show many of the before pictures because the old garage and workroom had really become dumping grounds worthy of Clean Sweep or some other TV show. There are a few I'm OK with posting, though.
Before
The "inside" section of the garage. Notice the garage windows on the right. From the front of the house, it still looks like a normal garage.
more on the "inside" section. that wall behind the shelves is coming down.
Virtually empty dumpster at the start of the project. You see, though, we're even throwing out the kitchen sink.
Left side facing the house - this is the "outside" part of the garage. This is the side that can be accessed by the actual garage door.
The doors are wood and more than 20 years old. It's definitely time they were replaced. Insulated steel this time around. Those pictures will come later - hopefully next weekend.
Right side door. This is the one that doesn't actually open and is dry-walled from the inside.
The inside of the outside access section.
During
Back wall of the "outside" section coming out.
Say "hi" to Dave.
Notice that they did actually frame a door in here, but they decided to drywall over it. So we've never had access to the inside of the house from the garage.
One wall out!
Second wall on its way down.
The inside looking out - a view we've never had.
Now we can see the other half of the garage.
After
Second wall gone!
We still need to demo the inside wall on the other side but won't do that until we're ready to install the new door.
Dumpster half-full after only one day!
We still have to go through a lot of the stuff and reorganize/throw away/give away, but we made a huge amount of progress today. Today was demolition day. Tomorrow is either reorganization or replacing one of the doors. We haven't really figured out which yet. And then next weekend is the last of the demolition and final door replacement.
Sunday, July 05, 2009
Most Recent Visit to CD Warehouse
Today's visit to see my friends at CD Warehouse has produced:
Aerosmith - Pump
I'm not exactly sure why neither of us have this CD now, because we both had it at one time or another. Now we do, again.
Celtic Faire ... what can I really say?
Los Lonely Boys - Los Lonely Boys
Bela Fleck and the Flecktones - Jingle All the Way
We've got tickets to their December show in Charleston, so I'm curious to see if they'll play any Christmas songs. Either way, it will be a fun (and scary) first road trip with little J.
Melody Gardot - My One and Only Thrill
Dave found her through the iTunes discovery download and saw this one at the store.
John Mayer - Where the Light Is (Live in Los Angeles)
Vince Guaraldi - Oh Good Grief!
Another one of Dave's pics. This is Peanuts music.
Bruce Robison - Wrapped
The Outfield - Diamond Days
This is another one I thought I already had, but apparently not.
Pearl Jam - Ten
Again, Dave and I both had this at one point, but then we didn't, and now we do.
Marc Broussard - Carencro
Aerosmith - Pump
I'm not exactly sure why neither of us have this CD now, because we both had it at one time or another. Now we do, again.
Celtic Faire ... what can I really say?
Los Lonely Boys - Los Lonely Boys
Bela Fleck and the Flecktones - Jingle All the Way
We've got tickets to their December show in Charleston, so I'm curious to see if they'll play any Christmas songs. Either way, it will be a fun (and scary) first road trip with little J.
Melody Gardot - My One and Only Thrill
Dave found her through the iTunes discovery download and saw this one at the store.
John Mayer - Where the Light Is (Live in Los Angeles)
Vince Guaraldi - Oh Good Grief!
Another one of Dave's pics. This is Peanuts music.
Bruce Robison - Wrapped
The Outfield - Diamond Days
This is another one I thought I already had, but apparently not.
Pearl Jam - Ten
Again, Dave and I both had this at one point, but then we didn't, and now we do.
Marc Broussard - Carencro
Thursday, June 25, 2009
It happens in threes
Yeah, I know the theory is that things happen in threes, particularly deaths. But this week seems to be a more vivid illustration of that than any other I can remember. I mean, Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett, and Michael Jackson within days of each other? I just can't believe it.
And I've realized today that Michael Jackson will be to my God-daughter what Elvis has always been for me. Elvis died on my second birthday, and I've never known him as a living entertainer. And she will have the same experience with Michael Jackson. He will only be a legend in her life.
The deaths of these three entertainers, though, really makes me feel like an adult. These three people were incredible stars throughout my childhood. Though they all had fallen pretty far since then (especially Jackson and Fawcett), what each was as part of my youth will never change. Who can forget that poster, Thriller, or "Heeeeeere's Johhny!"?
And I've realized today that Michael Jackson will be to my God-daughter what Elvis has always been for me. Elvis died on my second birthday, and I've never known him as a living entertainer. And she will have the same experience with Michael Jackson. He will only be a legend in her life.
The deaths of these three entertainers, though, really makes me feel like an adult. These three people were incredible stars throughout my childhood. Though they all had fallen pretty far since then (especially Jackson and Fawcett), what each was as part of my youth will never change. Who can forget that poster, Thriller, or "Heeeeeere's Johhny!"?
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Pet Peeve
"Parent" used as a verb.
I love the idea of being a parent and raising my child. I don't love the idea of parenting my child. It sounds PC and lingo-y. The use of this word as a verb drives me insane.
I love the idea of being a parent and raising my child. I don't love the idea of parenting my child. It sounds PC and lingo-y. The use of this word as a verb drives me insane.
Friday, June 12, 2009
ER
No, nothing bad here. I'm just watching the ER series finale, and remembering exactly why I stopped watching it about 10 years ago. So far, only two of the cases have made me cry.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Another trip to the CD store
has produced:
The Mavericks - Trampoline
Frank Sinatra - In the Wee Small Hours
Jeff Buckley - Grace
Pat Green - Cannonball
Led Zeppelin - In Through the Out Door
Francine Reed - Shades of Blue
Willie Nelson & Friends - Outlaws and Angels
Slumdog Millionaire Soundtrack
Moulin Rouge Soundtrack
The Mavericks - Trampoline
Frank Sinatra - In the Wee Small Hours
Jeff Buckley - Grace
Pat Green - Cannonball
Led Zeppelin - In Through the Out Door
Francine Reed - Shades of Blue
Willie Nelson & Friends - Outlaws and Angels
Slumdog Millionaire Soundtrack
Moulin Rouge Soundtrack
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Updates
Well, let's see, the biggest update is that we know now that this little one is a boy. Crazy. Today, at church, I was watching the four year-old classroom, and we had 11 boys and two girls. I can only consider it prep, and I came home totally wiped out!
Yesterday, Dave and I went to the symphony; as usual, we were not disappointed. This was a matinee show featuring Chris Botti and his touring band, backed by the ASO. Every musician on that stage was insanely talented, and watching the drummer was like watching a hummingbird. I've never seen drumsticks move like that. Dave could provide more color, but all I can really say is that it was wonderful.
And then there was dinner. I cannot express how amazing our food was at R. Thomas last night. We have always enjoyed our meals there, but yesterday was exceptional. Dave had the wings, and I had a burger topped bacon and guacamole and home fries on the side. We finished with turtle cheesecake and mango pie. Nothing we ate was less than spectacular.
Yesterday, Dave and I went to the symphony; as usual, we were not disappointed. This was a matinee show featuring Chris Botti and his touring band, backed by the ASO. Every musician on that stage was insanely talented, and watching the drummer was like watching a hummingbird. I've never seen drumsticks move like that. Dave could provide more color, but all I can really say is that it was wonderful.
And then there was dinner. I cannot express how amazing our food was at R. Thomas last night. We have always enjoyed our meals there, but yesterday was exceptional. Dave had the wings, and I had a burger topped bacon and guacamole and home fries on the side. We finished with turtle cheesecake and mango pie. Nothing we ate was less than spectacular.
Sunday, May 03, 2009
New Adventure
Today I embark on a new project: the great closet reorganization. There are a few factors driving this, which all of course, stem from the impending arrival of J. Bella.
First of all, most of the clothes in my closet don't fit anymore, so I have been pulling clothes that do fit from a pile in our spare bedroom. That is not going to work any longer. But, there's a problem. The other two closets are full, so where to put those clothes that don't fit? And finally, one of the other closets that is currently full of my clothes, will be full of J. Bella's clothes in about five months.
I'm sure this will take more than a single day, but today is the day that it begins. Maybe I'll even take some before and after pictures. We shall see.
First of all, most of the clothes in my closet don't fit anymore, so I have been pulling clothes that do fit from a pile in our spare bedroom. That is not going to work any longer. But, there's a problem. The other two closets are full, so where to put those clothes that don't fit? And finally, one of the other closets that is currently full of my clothes, will be full of J. Bella's clothes in about five months.
I'm sure this will take more than a single day, but today is the day that it begins. Maybe I'll even take some before and after pictures. We shall see.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Eh
Not much of an update, but it's been almost a week.
This week's music round-up ...
The woman on Britain's Got Talent who's been making the YouTube and talk TV rounds blew me away, too.
I did a great job with the CD purchase a couple weeks ago. The Mavericks and Alejandro Escavedo CDs are amazing - not a bit of filler in either one. I already knew I that I love the k.d. lang, Pretty in Pink, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Traveling Wilburys CDs. Junior Brown is good, but I haven't listened to the English Beat or Buffy CDs, yet.
Hugh Laurie's version of Georgia on My Mind at the end of House this week was ... I don't even have the words. Heartbreaking?
Off to Chicago for a few days with my best friend and our moms. There is much museum visiting, eating and shopping to be done.
This week's music round-up ...
The woman on Britain's Got Talent who's been making the YouTube and talk TV rounds blew me away, too.
I did a great job with the CD purchase a couple weeks ago. The Mavericks and Alejandro Escavedo CDs are amazing - not a bit of filler in either one. I already knew I that I love the k.d. lang, Pretty in Pink, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Traveling Wilburys CDs. Junior Brown is good, but I haven't listened to the English Beat or Buffy CDs, yet.
Hugh Laurie's version of Georgia on My Mind at the end of House this week was ... I don't even have the words. Heartbreaking?
Off to Chicago for a few days with my best friend and our moms. There is much museum visiting, eating and shopping to be done.
Saturday, April 04, 2009
playlist
This must be a record for blog posts in two days.
I've always known that I want children, and I listen to a lot of music. So, over the years, as I've heard songs that are about being a parent, written for children, or about the lessons we learn in life, I've stored them away in the back of my mind. Then a couple years ago, I started building a "Little One" play list.
Now, as the birth of my own child approaches - wow that was strange to type out - I'm obviously even more attached to these songs that I've collected over the years.
Without further ado, my Little One play list, so far:
"A Magic Moment" clip from Mad About You
Wonderland ... The American - Angie Aparo
Little Miss Magic - Jimmy Buffett
When You Come Back Down - Nickel Creek
Child, You're the Revolution - Angie Aparo
Never Gonna Fly - Radney Foster
The Cape - Guy Clark
Delaney Talks to Statues - Jimmy Buffett
Sweet Baby James - James Taylor
Lullabye - Ben Folds Five
Godspeed (Sweet Dreams) - Radney Foster
(new addition) It Won't Be Like This for Long - Darius Rucker
(new addition) Bella's Lullaby - Twilight Soundtrack
(and my favorite) The Things We've Handed Down - Marc Cohn
I've always known that I want children, and I listen to a lot of music. So, over the years, as I've heard songs that are about being a parent, written for children, or about the lessons we learn in life, I've stored them away in the back of my mind. Then a couple years ago, I started building a "Little One" play list.
Now, as the birth of my own child approaches - wow that was strange to type out - I'm obviously even more attached to these songs that I've collected over the years.
Without further ado, my Little One play list, so far:
"A Magic Moment" clip from Mad About You
Wonderland ... The American - Angie Aparo
Little Miss Magic - Jimmy Buffett
When You Come Back Down - Nickel Creek
Child, You're the Revolution - Angie Aparo
Never Gonna Fly - Radney Foster
The Cape - Guy Clark
Delaney Talks to Statues - Jimmy Buffett
Sweet Baby James - James Taylor
Lullabye - Ben Folds Five
Godspeed (Sweet Dreams) - Radney Foster
(new addition) It Won't Be Like This for Long - Darius Rucker
(new addition) Bella's Lullaby - Twilight Soundtrack
(and my favorite) The Things We've Handed Down - Marc Cohn
Friday, April 03, 2009
Reckless Kelly
I've just discovered that CMT.com provides embedding code with the videos on their site. So, here is the latest Reckless Kelly single and video - Ragged as the Road. While I really like the song, I have other favorite videos of theirs. The reason I've posted this video in particular, though, is because David Abeyta is playing the Gibson that he played in the Atlanta show - the one that I got to strum on a little at the end of the show.
Oh, and be very scared that I've discovered this ability. Hopefully, I'll find other sites that provide the code, so that you don't only have to suffer through country music.
Oh, and be very scared that I've discovered this ability. Hopefully, I'll find other sites that provide the code, so that you don't only have to suffer through country music.
Thursday, April 02, 2009
Left to My Own Devices
I'm eating a delicious filet mignon from Fresh Market, cooked for 30 minutes or so in an iron skillet. Wonderful. The bad part? It's 9:20pm.
Music
I had a fun trip to the CD Warehouse last weekend, while Dave smoked a cigar next door. It's pretty dangerous to leave me in CD Warehouse for more than a hour since that gives me time to go through every single bin. But, then again, it's CD Warehouse, so at least everything's pretty cheap.
So, here's the damage:
Junior Brown - Guit With It
Pretty in Pink Soundtrack
The English Beat - I Just Can't Stop It
The Mavericks - Live in Austin Texas
Traveling Wilburys - Vol. 1
Red Hot Chili Peppers - Blood Sugar Sex Magik
Alejandro Escovedo - A Man Under the Influence
k.d. lang - Shadowland
Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Radio Sunnydale
So, here's the damage:
Junior Brown - Guit With It
Pretty in Pink Soundtrack
The English Beat - I Just Can't Stop It
The Mavericks - Live in Austin Texas
Traveling Wilburys - Vol. 1
Red Hot Chili Peppers - Blood Sugar Sex Magik
Alejandro Escovedo - A Man Under the Influence
k.d. lang - Shadowland
Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Radio Sunnydale
Sunday, March 08, 2009
Wow
It's been a while, huh? Sorry about that. I've been feeling pretty crappy lately, and just never go to the computers at home. Had to do some work stuff today, so the work laptop's on the couch with me. Lazy? Yep.
Went to see Watchmen today and loved it. It's dark. No question about it. Humanity stinks. Even the heros stink. But there are lots of good fights, great effects, and an surprising amount of full frontal male nudity. Somewhat shocking at first. Then you just get used to it.
Went to see Watchmen today and loved it. It's dark. No question about it. Humanity stinks. Even the heros stink. But there are lots of good fights, great effects, and an surprising amount of full frontal male nudity. Somewhat shocking at first. Then you just get used to it.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
pics from the show
Set List - taken upside down, then flipped
Dave Abeyta and Cody Braun
Dave Abeyta
Willy Braun, Cody in the back
Love it Live
There isn't much better in this world that a great live concert. Tonight, Dave and I went to see one of my favorite bands - Reckless Kelly - at the Variety Playhouse. RK is a Texas roadhouse kind of band - equal parts rock and country, along with incredible songwriting.
The show was wonderful, and made me completely forget for two hours that I am sick and exhausted. Dave and I were right up front, in between the lead guitarist and mandolin/violin player.
Set List (if any of you care to look them up or listen):
Ragged as the Road
A Guy Like Me
Seven Nights in Eire
Wild Western Windblown Band
Wicked Twisted Road
Vincent Black Lightning
Stick Around
How was California?
Love in Her Eyes
Wiggles and Ritalin
Nobody's Girl
Vancouver
Hay Say May (Drinking Again)
Baby's Gone Blues
Wandering Eye
American Blood
Cool Rockin' Loretta
Castanets
Encore: Revolution, Crazy Eddie's Last Hurrah
I sang along the whole time, and Dave Abeyta, the guitarist, basically played right over my head for at least 1/4 of the show. At one point, Dave and Willy (the lead singer) both leaned over and played right at me. I almost fainted.
During Crazy Eddie, Dave leaned over, looked at me, and pointed to his guitar. He wanted me to play! I strummed a little, and then he tried to hand me the pick, but I dropped it. I strummed some more, and after that he went on to finish the song. It was soooooo awesome. My Dave, of course, found the pick later.
When they finished, I pointed to the set list, and he nodded. After they left, a roadie came out and gave it to me. So, now it's autographed by the whole band.
What a night! Some friends of ours are going to the show in Raleigh on Saturday, and I'm so jealous.
The show was wonderful, and made me completely forget for two hours that I am sick and exhausted. Dave and I were right up front, in between the lead guitarist and mandolin/violin player.
Set List (if any of you care to look them up or listen):
Ragged as the Road
A Guy Like Me
Seven Nights in Eire
Wild Western Windblown Band
Wicked Twisted Road
Vincent Black Lightning
Stick Around
How was California?
Love in Her Eyes
Wiggles and Ritalin
Nobody's Girl
Vancouver
Hay Say May (Drinking Again)
Baby's Gone Blues
Wandering Eye
American Blood
Cool Rockin' Loretta
Castanets
Encore: Revolution, Crazy Eddie's Last Hurrah
I sang along the whole time, and Dave Abeyta, the guitarist, basically played right over my head for at least 1/4 of the show. At one point, Dave and Willy (the lead singer) both leaned over and played right at me. I almost fainted.
During Crazy Eddie, Dave leaned over, looked at me, and pointed to his guitar. He wanted me to play! I strummed a little, and then he tried to hand me the pick, but I dropped it. I strummed some more, and after that he went on to finish the song. It was soooooo awesome. My Dave, of course, found the pick later.
When they finished, I pointed to the set list, and he nodded. After they left, a roadie came out and gave it to me. So, now it's autographed by the whole band.
What a night! Some friends of ours are going to the show in Raleigh on Saturday, and I'm so jealous.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
A good week
Yep, it's been a good week. I guess we could start counting back when we met the Funkles for dinner on Friday night. It's been since NYE 2007/2008 that we were all together. We had so much fun, and I absolutely don't want to wait that long again.
I finished Love in the Time of Cholera. Meh. It is beautifully written, but I just never cared about the characters. Some quotes are at the bottom of this post, though.
What else?
Oh, I slayed the email beast this week - knocking out the 177 unread messages that were in my inbox on Monday, along with 38 in my action folder, and almost all the ones that were coming in during the week. As of my leaving work today, there were 13 emails in the action folder and zero in the inbox. Woo hoo!
And finally, only one more day of work before we go on vacation for a full week, and a whole new batch of emails populate my computer. But at least I'm not starting out behind.
From the book:
"He was still too young to know that the heart's memory eliminates the bad and magnifies the good, and that thanks to this artifice we manage to endure the burden of the past."
"She had barely turned the corner into maturity, free at last of illusions, when she began to detect the disillusionment of never having been what she had dreamed of being when she was young."
I finished Love in the Time of Cholera. Meh. It is beautifully written, but I just never cared about the characters. Some quotes are at the bottom of this post, though.
What else?
Oh, I slayed the email beast this week - knocking out the 177 unread messages that were in my inbox on Monday, along with 38 in my action folder, and almost all the ones that were coming in during the week. As of my leaving work today, there were 13 emails in the action folder and zero in the inbox. Woo hoo!
And finally, only one more day of work before we go on vacation for a full week, and a whole new batch of emails populate my computer. But at least I'm not starting out behind.
From the book:
"He was still too young to know that the heart's memory eliminates the bad and magnifies the good, and that thanks to this artifice we manage to endure the burden of the past."
"She had barely turned the corner into maturity, free at last of illusions, when she began to detect the disillusionment of never having been what she had dreamed of being when she was young."
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Thursday, January 08, 2009
Just a Spare
A lovely image greeted me this morning when I let Millie in.
The neighbor's tree missed only one board in that particular section of our fence. The wind and rain combined to uproot the thing and drop it right across our back yard. What's amazing is that it missed the swing entirely (thank goodness), and even the chairs escaped damage. We're also very lucky it was that thin little (though tall) poplar, instead of one of the massive pine trees that surround our house.
Honestly, I'm not even sure when this tree came down, though it must have been last night. We didn't hear a thing, but I can't imagine I would have missed that all day yesterday.
We're also lucky that Millie no longer feels the need to wander about, because she was out for a while this morning. I don't look into the back yard when I put her out - just open the door and let her go. It's usually dark, anyway. But when I went to the back door to let her in, there she was running around the yard - and that's when I spotted the tree.
The neighbor's tree missed only one board in that particular section of our fence. The wind and rain combined to uproot the thing and drop it right across our back yard. What's amazing is that it missed the swing entirely (thank goodness), and even the chairs escaped damage. We're also very lucky it was that thin little (though tall) poplar, instead of one of the massive pine trees that surround our house.
Honestly, I'm not even sure when this tree came down, though it must have been last night. We didn't hear a thing, but I can't imagine I would have missed that all day yesterday.
We're also lucky that Millie no longer feels the need to wander about, because she was out for a while this morning. I don't look into the back yard when I put her out - just open the door and let her go. It's usually dark, anyway. But when I went to the back door to let her in, there she was running around the yard - and that's when I spotted the tree.
Sunday, January 04, 2009
Goodbye Versatile Video
After 28 years of business, Versatile Video is closing its doors. The owner, Chuck, is retiring. It was a wonderful place to patronize and to work.
Versatile Video was my second "real" job. I started there when I was 16 years old, and worked through high school and even on Christmas, spring break, and summers until I was out of college. It was a fantastic job. An independent video store, we had an amazing array of regular customers. Mr. Jenson comes to mind, mainly. He'd stop by to rent about five movies for the weekend after he'd gotten his peanut butter and 10 loaves of bread to feed the raccoons and possums in his backyard.
VV employees were responsible for my first hangover - because of which I had to call in sick to work. Is that irony?
Versatile Video was my second "real" job. I started there when I was 16 years old, and worked through high school and even on Christmas, spring break, and summers until I was out of college. It was a fantastic job. An independent video store, we had an amazing array of regular customers. Mr. Jenson comes to mind, mainly. He'd stop by to rent about five movies for the weekend after he'd gotten his peanut butter and 10 loaves of bread to feed the raccoons and possums in his backyard.
VV employees were responsible for my first hangover - because of which I had to call in sick to work. Is that irony?
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Monday, December 29, 2008
2008 Wrap-Up
All in all, 2008 was a good year for us. Sure, our 401(k)s lost about 35% of their value. We’re young, though, and still have good jobs with good companies - which is very much something to be thankful for. And, well, a few things didn’t happen that we would have liked. As every good sports fan knows, though, there’s always next year.
We did enjoy a lot of great entertainment and travel in 2008, so in the spirit of the good things that happened in 2008, the list below lays it out (in no particular order) as best can be remembered. A couple of accomplishments are listed, but, yes, mostly it’s entertainment and travel. We have a good life. (Oh, and please note I realize all of this is superficial. This is not meant to be a list of the truly wonderful things in our lives like family and friends.)
Got It Done:
Paid off credit card debt
“New” car for Dave
Travel:
San Antonio, TX
Charleston, SC (x2)
Hollywood, FL
Tarpon Springs, FL
Durham, NC
Birmingham/Huntsville, AL
Hilton Head, SC
Whitney Alone: Minneapolis, MN
Dave Alone: NYC (x4), Tampa, FL; Chicago; Miami, FL
Books Read:
Atonement* – Ian McEwan
Born Standing Up* – Steve Martin
Twilight*, New Moon*, Eclipse*, and Breaking Dawn* – Stephenie Meyer
The Sun Also Rises – Ernest Hemingway
Our Town – Thornton Wilder
Eat Pray Love – Elizabeth Gilbert
Tender is the Night – F. Scott Fitzgerald
Mere Christianity – C.S. Lewis
Empire Falls* – Richard Russo
The Great Gatsby* – F. Scott Fitzgerald (3rd reading)
Sarum – Edward Rutherford
I, Lucifer – Glen Duncan
Wicked – Gregory Maguire
Cat on a Hot Tin Roof – Tennessee Williams
Until I Find You – John Irving
The Second Coming – Walker Percy.
Concerts/Shows:
Reckless Kelly* at the Variety Playhouse (x2)
Reverend Horton Heat* with Nashville Pussy (Variety Playhouse)
Atlanta Symphony* with Joshua Bell (Copland, Barber, and Bartok)
Atlanta Symphony* free show at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater
Atlanta Symphony* Christmas Concert
Harry Connick, Jr.* (Cobb Energy Center)
Les Miserables* (Fox Theater)
Eddie Izzard* (Cobb Energy Center)
Movies (Theater):
Wanted*
Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian
Atonement*
Dark Knight*
Twilight* (x3)
Quantum of Solace* (x2)
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
Tropic Thunder* (x2)
Iron Man*
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button*
Burn After Reading*
Sex & The City
Run, Fat Boy, Run
Max Payne
Wall-E*
Movies (Rented):
Simpsons Movie
Forgetting Sarah Marshall*
The Happening
Death at a Funeral*
August Rush
Last King of Scotland*
Penelope
Maybe Baby
Green Street Hooligans*
Vantage Point
The Bank Job
Vince Vaughn’s Wild West Comedy Show*
Fool’s Gold
The Lookout
The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford
Pride and Prejudice (miniseries)
Mr. Brooks
Balls of Fury
Enchanted*
Gone Baby Gone*
Tristan and Isolde
Night at the Museum
Once*
Shoot ‘Em Up
Day Watch
Tender Mercies
Lars and the Real Girl
Eagle Eye
Trainspotting
Miller’s Crossing*
Sweeney Todd
CDs Purchased (mostly bought used):
What is Beat – The English Beat
Rumours – Fleetwood Mac
Perfect Symmetry – Keane
Catalogue of Generous Men – Modern Skirts
Greatest Hits – Rick Astley
Reckless Kelly was Here*, Bulletproof*, and Wicked Twisted Road* – Reckless Kelly
Use Your Illusion I – Guns and Roses
The Delicate Sound of Thunder* – Pink Floyd
We Sing, We Dance, We Steal Things* and Mr. A to Z – Jason Mraz
On a Clear Night* – Missy Higgins
Golden Road – Keith Urban
Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace –Foo Fighters
Viva la Vida* and X&Y* – Coldplay
Crowded House*, Woodface* and Together Alone – Crowded House
Audioslave – Audioslave
Born on a Pirate Ship – Barenaked Ladies
All the Love You Need – Big Head Todd and the Monsters
Charlie Brown Christmas
Safe Trip Home – Dido
Twilight Soundtrack
Sweeney Todd Soundtrack
True Romance Soundtrack
The Apostle Soundtrack
New Miserable Experience – Gin Blossoms
* highly recommended (If it doesn’t have an asterisk, that doesn’t mean I didn’t like it.)
We did enjoy a lot of great entertainment and travel in 2008, so in the spirit of the good things that happened in 2008, the list below lays it out (in no particular order) as best can be remembered. A couple of accomplishments are listed, but, yes, mostly it’s entertainment and travel. We have a good life. (Oh, and please note I realize all of this is superficial. This is not meant to be a list of the truly wonderful things in our lives like family and friends.)
Got It Done:
Paid off credit card debt
“New” car for Dave
Travel:
San Antonio, TX
Charleston, SC (x2)
Hollywood, FL
Tarpon Springs, FL
Durham, NC
Birmingham/Huntsville, AL
Hilton Head, SC
Whitney Alone: Minneapolis, MN
Dave Alone: NYC (x4), Tampa, FL; Chicago; Miami, FL
Books Read:
Atonement* – Ian McEwan
Born Standing Up* – Steve Martin
Twilight*, New Moon*, Eclipse*, and Breaking Dawn* – Stephenie Meyer
The Sun Also Rises – Ernest Hemingway
Our Town – Thornton Wilder
Eat Pray Love – Elizabeth Gilbert
Tender is the Night – F. Scott Fitzgerald
Mere Christianity – C.S. Lewis
Empire Falls* – Richard Russo
The Great Gatsby* – F. Scott Fitzgerald (3rd reading)
Sarum – Edward Rutherford
I, Lucifer – Glen Duncan
Wicked – Gregory Maguire
Cat on a Hot Tin Roof – Tennessee Williams
Until I Find You – John Irving
The Second Coming – Walker Percy.
Concerts/Shows:
Reckless Kelly* at the Variety Playhouse (x2)
Reverend Horton Heat* with Nashville Pussy (Variety Playhouse)
Atlanta Symphony* with Joshua Bell (Copland, Barber, and Bartok)
Atlanta Symphony* free show at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater
Atlanta Symphony* Christmas Concert
Harry Connick, Jr.* (Cobb Energy Center)
Les Miserables* (Fox Theater)
Eddie Izzard* (Cobb Energy Center)
Movies (Theater):
Wanted*
Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian
Atonement*
Dark Knight*
Twilight* (x3)
Quantum of Solace* (x2)
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
Tropic Thunder* (x2)
Iron Man*
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button*
Burn After Reading*
Sex & The City
Run, Fat Boy, Run
Max Payne
Wall-E*
Movies (Rented):
Simpsons Movie
Forgetting Sarah Marshall*
The Happening
Death at a Funeral*
August Rush
Last King of Scotland*
Penelope
Maybe Baby
Green Street Hooligans*
Vantage Point
The Bank Job
Vince Vaughn’s Wild West Comedy Show*
Fool’s Gold
The Lookout
The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford
Pride and Prejudice (miniseries)
Mr. Brooks
Balls of Fury
Enchanted*
Gone Baby Gone*
Tristan and Isolde
Night at the Museum
Once*
Shoot ‘Em Up
Day Watch
Tender Mercies
Lars and the Real Girl
Eagle Eye
Trainspotting
Miller’s Crossing*
Sweeney Todd
CDs Purchased (mostly bought used):
What is Beat – The English Beat
Rumours – Fleetwood Mac
Perfect Symmetry – Keane
Catalogue of Generous Men – Modern Skirts
Greatest Hits – Rick Astley
Reckless Kelly was Here*, Bulletproof*, and Wicked Twisted Road* – Reckless Kelly
Use Your Illusion I – Guns and Roses
The Delicate Sound of Thunder* – Pink Floyd
We Sing, We Dance, We Steal Things* and Mr. A to Z – Jason Mraz
On a Clear Night* – Missy Higgins
Golden Road – Keith Urban
Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace –Foo Fighters
Viva la Vida* and X&Y* – Coldplay
Crowded House*, Woodface* and Together Alone – Crowded House
Audioslave – Audioslave
Born on a Pirate Ship – Barenaked Ladies
All the Love You Need – Big Head Todd and the Monsters
Charlie Brown Christmas
Safe Trip Home – Dido
Twilight Soundtrack
Sweeney Todd Soundtrack
True Romance Soundtrack
The Apostle Soundtrack
New Miserable Experience – Gin Blossoms
* highly recommended (If it doesn’t have an asterisk, that doesn’t mean I didn’t like it.)
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
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