We finally made it over to Seven Saints on Chester Street in Champaign. We were delighted to be able to sit outside and enjoy a meal without the kids...although once the sun went down it got cold.
I have heard great things about Seven Saints from many sources. We did opt for the beet chips with goat cheese dip...since everyone raved about them. There were ok...ours were a bit crushed up (I suppose we could have sent them back but we were starving). I think Crane Alley's are better. We decided to try as many things as possible between the two of us. We selected the black and blue salad, Seven Saints salad, tropical slider, Californian turkey slider, and wild mushroom soup. Everything was good. The salads were both delicious. The black and blue is a bit heavy (with blue cheese, steak, mushrooms, and onions) compared to the Seven Saints salad (with a sesame dressing, steak, cashews). I loved the tropical slider but wasn't excited about the Californian. The soup was great. We also finished with the creme brulee cheesecake...which was good but would have been better if they caramelized the top.
Overall, it was good. The portion sizes were perfect. A salad and slider would be perfect lunch. Adding the appetizer and dessert made a nice dinner without being overstuffed. The prices were very reasonable as well...we totalled $37 for everything including beer and tip.
It wasn't as excellent as I had expected but it is a place we would go to again...the menu has enough variety that the combos are endless. I don't really want to think about the calorie and fat content of the menu...despite the list of salads most of the them include cheese, bacon, and meat. The sliders however might have some redeeming nutritional value (e.g. small portions, lean beef, turkey, or Boca burgers, veggies). Our vegetarian friend did say that they have avoided it because they didn't feel the menu was veggie-friendly (you would have to ask for substitutions and eliminations). And on my new dairy-free diet, I was limited since most items included cheese (I did have a little blue cheese).
But we sure did feel like real adults...sitting outside in downtown drinking beer (ok, I don't drink but my husband did) and talking about adult matters (work, books). I think we got through most of dinner without talking about the kids!
Friday, September 14, 2007
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Mommy loves Coffee
One of my favorite Ralph Covert songs....
Anyways. Yesterday, I read an article on providing (yet not 'marketing' to) menu items that are more appropriate for the younger ones at Starbucks. Ok, I admit, I LOVE coffee! And I have been drinking it since I was a teenager. And after working in a coffee shop in college, I learned to really enjoy the good stuff and often, straight up. And, in turn, I like to go and get coffee at the local coffee shops (I prefer Espresso Royale (on Neil, the one with the drive-thru)). My kids are often with me...and always ask for coffee. Using my vast child development knowledge...I think, sure they can have it...they will hate it and never ask again (I remember trying my mom's coffee, yuck!). All three liked it! So, now I just sneak it or try my best to ward them off while I try to drink it while it is hot. (note, I almost always drink decaf...so there is no major harm to the kiddies). Also, know that in our newly income-challenged lives, I make my own coffee most days.
Anyways. Back to the article...they kept thinking about how kids and teens shouldn't drink caffeine. This is true...none of us should. But remember two things....first, tea has caffeine as well...so does chocolate for that matter. Secondly, you can order decaf items. But this shouldn't be a major concern.
What is interesting is that we are teaching our kids that it is quite alright to consume high-fat and high-sugar items (that mocha you love so much). Also, that it is a good idea to spend $4 on a cup of coffee...to a major corporation...when you could spend your money on a local business. Taking the kids to the coffee shop is an expensive treat...I would rather spend that money elsewhere (or not at all).
Of course, teaching your kid how to make the perfect latte or even hot chocolate is a life-long skill that will come in very handy.
Anyways. Yesterday, I read an article on providing (yet not 'marketing' to) menu items that are more appropriate for the younger ones at Starbucks. Ok, I admit, I LOVE coffee! And I have been drinking it since I was a teenager. And after working in a coffee shop in college, I learned to really enjoy the good stuff and often, straight up. And, in turn, I like to go and get coffee at the local coffee shops (I prefer Espresso Royale (on Neil, the one with the drive-thru)). My kids are often with me...and always ask for coffee. Using my vast child development knowledge...I think, sure they can have it...they will hate it and never ask again (I remember trying my mom's coffee, yuck!). All three liked it! So, now I just sneak it or try my best to ward them off while I try to drink it while it is hot. (note, I almost always drink decaf...so there is no major harm to the kiddies). Also, know that in our newly income-challenged lives, I make my own coffee most days.
Anyways. Back to the article...they kept thinking about how kids and teens shouldn't drink caffeine. This is true...none of us should. But remember two things....first, tea has caffeine as well...so does chocolate for that matter. Secondly, you can order decaf items. But this shouldn't be a major concern.
What is interesting is that we are teaching our kids that it is quite alright to consume high-fat and high-sugar items (that mocha you love so much). Also, that it is a good idea to spend $4 on a cup of coffee...to a major corporation...when you could spend your money on a local business. Taking the kids to the coffee shop is an expensive treat...I would rather spend that money elsewhere (or not at all).
Of course, teaching your kid how to make the perfect latte or even hot chocolate is a life-long skill that will come in very handy.
It's September, right?
If you walk into any store right now....I would swear it was more like October. Halloween stuff is out! What is up with that?! And I am sure that on Nov 1st, Christmas crap will fill its place. I actually love decorating for the holidays...but I also buy new stuff after the holiday (and hopefully remember we got it the next year...last year we got some great new Halloween stuff).
So, of course my kids have decided that they need to start planning their Halloween costumes and trick-or-treating routes. My daughter actually wanted me to buy this Neopet thing (I don't really even know what that is) so she could send it to my mom for her costume. My almost 4 yo has been wearing his Buzz Lightyear costume around for the past 2 days. I usually make them wait until at least the first week in October to commit to a costume, since once its made or purchased they're stuck.
Gosh...why am I even talking about Halloween!
Enjoy the lovely SEPTEMBER weather!
So, of course my kids have decided that they need to start planning their Halloween costumes and trick-or-treating routes. My daughter actually wanted me to buy this Neopet thing (I don't really even know what that is) so she could send it to my mom for her costume. My almost 4 yo has been wearing his Buzz Lightyear costume around for the past 2 days. I usually make them wait until at least the first week in October to commit to a costume, since once its made or purchased they're stuck.
Gosh...why am I even talking about Halloween!
Enjoy the lovely SEPTEMBER weather!
Sunday, September 09, 2007
Some Good (FREE) Things Going On
*Savoy 16 movie theater has started its free weekend kid movies this weekend. All show are free for all and begin at 10am and 11am (there is a 15 min intermission on each show). Be sure to get there early for the more popular movies (e.g. Shrek 3).
*I was pretty sure I read that Good Neighbor Day is on the 12th (but I can't find it to confirm...anyone?). Blossom Basket florist as well as some others in town are giving away dozens of roses with the promise that you will give them out to your friends and neighbors in appreciation. Get there early to participate....its runs on a first come, first serve basis.
*On Friday, head out to Meadowbrook Park from 530-730pm and listen to local jazz artists play as you walk or ride the trails.
*On Saturday, pack up and go to Eisner Park from 4-830pm for some free fun and food including inflatables, a movie, ice cream, popcorn, hot dogs, and yard games.
*The Champaign Public Library begins their new reading programs this week. Take your kids on a jungle adventure through reading. And read some books yourself and you might win a local gift certificate.
*I was pretty sure I read that Good Neighbor Day is on the 12th (but I can't find it to confirm...anyone?). Blossom Basket florist as well as some others in town are giving away dozens of roses with the promise that you will give them out to your friends and neighbors in appreciation. Get there early to participate....its runs on a first come, first serve basis.
*On Friday, head out to Meadowbrook Park from 530-730pm and listen to local jazz artists play as you walk or ride the trails.
*On Saturday, pack up and go to Eisner Park from 4-830pm for some free fun and food including inflatables, a movie, ice cream, popcorn, hot dogs, and yard games.
*What to do on Sunday mornings...when nothing is open and your kids are up? Head out to Anita Purves/Busey Woods from 730-9am for Sunday Morning Bird Walks. Program runs through October.
*The new Atlanta Bread Company on Neil hosts its Grand Opening this week including Wednesday's Kid Day...free kid's meal with adult meal purchase and Sally the Clown from 5-7pm. Each days has a different special.
*Krannert host its Wall to Wall Guitar Festival all week long. There are many free events to enjoy (however, the Dan Zane's concerts are all sold out).
*The Champaign Public Library begins their new reading programs this week. Take your kids on a jungle adventure through reading. And read some books yourself and you might win a local gift certificate.
Friday, September 07, 2007
Quickies...
Here some quick thoughts from the short week....
*Check out Ruffles Light potato chips...they are FAT FREE and delicious!
*Took all three kids to the grocery store...and only came away with a box of donuts (besides what was on the list).
*My boys have decided to sleep on the floor from now on...with sleeping caps.
*My 4yo wrote, directed, and performed his first show for us....Spot and Me...it was a musical and wonderful.
*My children have been favoring MC Hammer lately...complete with Hammer dance.
*Last trip to the pool on Monday...it was great (and hot!).
*Soccer season starts on Saturday...Go Green!!
*Wish I could watch Illini football....boo, hoo.
*Creamed spinach* is great....eat it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
*Bad days at school can be cured with a hug and an ice cream cone.
*Took a spin class for the first time.....sore but not sorry.
*Desperately waiting for the new TV season to start (but did watch a great PBS program on giant pumpkin farmers).
*Watched Yo Gabba Gabba...what is this crazy show?
Have a great weekend!!
Creamed Spinach
2 boxes of frozen spinach, thawed and drained
1 medium onion, chopped
1 medium carrot, chopped fine
1 clove garlic, chopped
1 cup cream
1/4-1/2 cup Italian blend cheese
1 tablespoon each butter and olive oil
salt and pepper
In medium pan, heat butter and oil. Add onions and carrots. Cook 5 mins. Add spinach and garlic. Cook 2 mins. Add salt and pepper. Add cream. Bring to a bubble and turn heat down to a low simmer. Cook 5 mins until cream is reduced and thick. Add cheese. Taste for seasoning.
Can be made ahead of time! Tastes great the next day on eggs! And the kids will eat it!
*Check out Ruffles Light potato chips...they are FAT FREE and delicious!
*Took all three kids to the grocery store...and only came away with a box of donuts (besides what was on the list).
*My boys have decided to sleep on the floor from now on...with sleeping caps.
*My 4yo wrote, directed, and performed his first show for us....Spot and Me...it was a musical and wonderful.
*My children have been favoring MC Hammer lately...complete with Hammer dance.
*Last trip to the pool on Monday...it was great (and hot!).
*Soccer season starts on Saturday...Go Green!!
*Wish I could watch Illini football....boo, hoo.
*Creamed spinach* is great....eat it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
*Bad days at school can be cured with a hug and an ice cream cone.
*Took a spin class for the first time.....sore but not sorry.
*Desperately waiting for the new TV season to start (but did watch a great PBS program on giant pumpkin farmers).
*Watched Yo Gabba Gabba...what is this crazy show?
Have a great weekend!!
Creamed Spinach
2 boxes of frozen spinach, thawed and drained
1 medium onion, chopped
1 medium carrot, chopped fine
1 clove garlic, chopped
1 cup cream
1/4-1/2 cup Italian blend cheese
1 tablespoon each butter and olive oil
salt and pepper
In medium pan, heat butter and oil. Add onions and carrots. Cook 5 mins. Add spinach and garlic. Cook 2 mins. Add salt and pepper. Add cream. Bring to a bubble and turn heat down to a low simmer. Cook 5 mins until cream is reduced and thick. Add cheese. Taste for seasoning.
Can be made ahead of time! Tastes great the next day on eggs! And the kids will eat it!
Monday, September 03, 2007
Curtis Orchard
One of my favorite CU spots is Curtis Orchard. Especially in the fall, it is a beautiful place to walk around, pick apples, let the kids run around. We used to go there a lot...hang out and have a donut and some cider. It was nice and inexpensive family spot.
Things have changed. Over the years they have build up the place, using their Wizard of Oz theme. The quaint store is now expanded into a full cafe (with real bathrooms!). They replaced the little maze with a collection of plastic playhouses and slides (aka Munchinland). They reduced the animal pens to one smaller area and made room for more seating and party areas (my daughter has wanted to have her birthday there for years...sorry, baby). They added a mineral wash (ok, I can't think of the name of this right now...anyone?). They still have wagon rides, fruit picking, photo cutouts, pony rides, big corn maze, giant inflatable slide, weekend entertainment.
You can take your family there and have a very enjoyable time without spending any money. However, if you want to do anything special (e.g. ponies, slides, big maze, minerals, eat) it might cost you a bit...ok, a lot. The addition of the cafe is actually lovely. It is spacious, clean, and the menu is great. A meal is reasonably priced ($4.50-7.25 for an entree, sides, pie). And the food is tasty. However, if you just want a donut and some cider...I think it is crazy ($2.20 for a small cider....those cute apple sippers your kids beg you for...that used to be $1). For 1/2 dozen donuts and drinks for our family it was $15! I remember going there last season and spending $50 each time.
And the store is charming with samples throughout. But, again, a bit pricey. And most of the products are not made at the orchard or even with orchard produce. I still like to indulge in some apple butter. All the jams and sauces, etc. are delicious.
One thing that is completely correctly priced are the bakery items...meaning the pies and cobblers (which you can buy frozen or ready-to-go). They are awesome...the best apple pie I have ever had...not to mention the peace. They run about $12.
Again, you can go and spend nothing. But we limit our visits there now because we don't want to be tempted to spend the money. I just feel like it went a bit too commercial...or they are taking advantage of us...those who love to be there and have grown up with cravings for apple donuts and cider slushies. But a business is a business.
However...still a must-visit for anyone in town.
Things have changed. Over the years they have build up the place, using their Wizard of Oz theme. The quaint store is now expanded into a full cafe (with real bathrooms!). They replaced the little maze with a collection of plastic playhouses and slides (aka Munchinland). They reduced the animal pens to one smaller area and made room for more seating and party areas (my daughter has wanted to have her birthday there for years...sorry, baby). They added a mineral wash (ok, I can't think of the name of this right now...anyone?). They still have wagon rides, fruit picking, photo cutouts, pony rides, big corn maze, giant inflatable slide, weekend entertainment.
You can take your family there and have a very enjoyable time without spending any money. However, if you want to do anything special (e.g. ponies, slides, big maze, minerals, eat) it might cost you a bit...ok, a lot. The addition of the cafe is actually lovely. It is spacious, clean, and the menu is great. A meal is reasonably priced ($4.50-7.25 for an entree, sides, pie). And the food is tasty. However, if you just want a donut and some cider...I think it is crazy ($2.20 for a small cider....those cute apple sippers your kids beg you for...that used to be $1). For 1/2 dozen donuts and drinks for our family it was $15! I remember going there last season and spending $50 each time.
And the store is charming with samples throughout. But, again, a bit pricey. And most of the products are not made at the orchard or even with orchard produce. I still like to indulge in some apple butter. All the jams and sauces, etc. are delicious.
One thing that is completely correctly priced are the bakery items...meaning the pies and cobblers (which you can buy frozen or ready-to-go). They are awesome...the best apple pie I have ever had...not to mention the peace. They run about $12.
Again, you can go and spend nothing. But we limit our visits there now because we don't want to be tempted to spend the money. I just feel like it went a bit too commercial...or they are taking advantage of us...those who love to be there and have grown up with cravings for apple donuts and cider slushies. But a business is a business.
However...still a must-visit for anyone in town.
Sunday, September 02, 2007
Money Woes
I read this morning that our water company just filed for a 60% rate hike. This follows the controversial power rate increase last year. Not to mention high, high gas prices. House prices have risen. And so has everything else.
What I don't understand is how come the price of living is increasing at a rapid rate but salaries are not budging. My husband worked for the university for 6 years. When he did get a raise (which did not happen every year), it was minimal (a few hundred dollars). As far as I can see....people aren't suddenly getting paid 60% more than they were before. Of course, we have chosen to work in the non-profit world but still...
What I don't understand is how come the price of living is increasing at a rapid rate but salaries are not budging. My husband worked for the university for 6 years. When he did get a raise (which did not happen every year), it was minimal (a few hundred dollars). As far as I can see....people aren't suddenly getting paid 60% more than they were before. Of course, we have chosen to work in the non-profit world but still...
Saturday, September 01, 2007
Movie Review
Superbad is not so bad!
For whatever reason, my husband and I really needed to see this movie (e.g. stress, surrounded by children and toys, low brain functioning). So, we went to see it with my brother and sister-in-law (sil), not before heading to the drug store for some less expensive chocolate treats. After the first 2 mins my sil and I thought were we in a bad place. The opening scene is filled with swearing and crude talk of sex from a teenage boy. However...it was hilarious. It was almost like....can they even talk like that in a movie (remember most movies I watch are rated G). The characters are so great that you do want to see what happens.
Quick plot wrap-up. Teenage boys trying to get laid before graduation and get into the best parties (they are, of course, the nerds of school...making things a bit more of a challenge).
These young actors are wonderful. Although I heard that their parents had to be present for the sex scenes...it was nice to see teenagers being played by teenagers. I love Michael Cera (Evan) from Arrested Development (the best show since Seinfeld) and he was so sweet in this movie you want your children to date him. Jonah Hill (Seth) is so crude and sexually-focused. But the best part of the movie is the story of McLovin! They found the nerdiest actor (Christopher Mintz-Plasse) to play this sweet kid who tries to buy alcohol with his new fake id...and ends up spending the evening with two pathetic cops played by co-writer Seth Rogen and SNL's player Bill Hader. That could have been the whole movie...it was hilarious.
Overall, it is a very rude and crude movie (think American Pie, Porky's genre) but it is very well written and cast so it works. Not for the kiddies...even the teenage ones (I'm a bit surprised it is only rated R) but a good laugh for the adults.
For whatever reason, my husband and I really needed to see this movie (e.g. stress, surrounded by children and toys, low brain functioning). So, we went to see it with my brother and sister-in-law (sil), not before heading to the drug store for some less expensive chocolate treats. After the first 2 mins my sil and I thought were we in a bad place. The opening scene is filled with swearing and crude talk of sex from a teenage boy. However...it was hilarious. It was almost like....can they even talk like that in a movie (remember most movies I watch are rated G). The characters are so great that you do want to see what happens.
Quick plot wrap-up. Teenage boys trying to get laid before graduation and get into the best parties (they are, of course, the nerds of school...making things a bit more of a challenge).
These young actors are wonderful. Although I heard that their parents had to be present for the sex scenes...it was nice to see teenagers being played by teenagers. I love Michael Cera (Evan) from Arrested Development (the best show since Seinfeld) and he was so sweet in this movie you want your children to date him. Jonah Hill (Seth) is so crude and sexually-focused. But the best part of the movie is the story of McLovin! They found the nerdiest actor (Christopher Mintz-Plasse) to play this sweet kid who tries to buy alcohol with his new fake id...and ends up spending the evening with two pathetic cops played by co-writer Seth Rogen and SNL's player Bill Hader. That could have been the whole movie...it was hilarious.
Overall, it is a very rude and crude movie (think American Pie, Porky's genre) but it is very well written and cast so it works. Not for the kiddies...even the teenage ones (I'm a bit surprised it is only rated R) but a good laugh for the adults.
Friday, August 31, 2007
2 years for baby!
Today is our littlest birthday (something he really doesn't care about...until he sees the cake and presents)! It also marks 2 years of breastfeeding...that is the longest I have bf one child...and he is still going strong (next month....will mark 4 straight years of bfing!). He is at the point where he politely asks to nurse ("momma milk please"), switches sides ("this one"), and can pull at my clothing enough to reach the boob on his own.
As he was nursing this morning...all curled up next to me in bed...I clearly remember the first time he latched on, just after he was born! I can't believe it has been so long! and he is so big now!
So, in honor of our Breastfeeding Anniversary, some bfing tidbits...
An article on msnbc.com this morning about the power of money and breastfeeding advocacy. By that I mean how the formula industry influenced public ad campaigns (you know the government gets no money from breastfeeding families...and bf babies even save money later in life by tending to have fewer health problems).
MomsRising.org has a campaign to support breastfeeding moms in the work place. Sign their petition here and share your stories.
Motherwear's Breastfeeding blog is something I came across yesterday. Watch the Sesame Street video from the 8/28 post...wonderful!
As he was nursing this morning...all curled up next to me in bed...I clearly remember the first time he latched on, just after he was born! I can't believe it has been so long! and he is so big now!
Congratulations to all you bfing families...no matter how long you choose to do it...it is a great gift to your child and family!!
So, in honor of our Breastfeeding Anniversary, some bfing tidbits...
An article on msnbc.com this morning about the power of money and breastfeeding advocacy. By that I mean how the formula industry influenced public ad campaigns (you know the government gets no money from breastfeeding families...and bf babies even save money later in life by tending to have fewer health problems).
MomsRising.org has a campaign to support breastfeeding moms in the work place. Sign their petition here and share your stories.
Motherwear's Breastfeeding blog is something I came across yesterday. Watch the Sesame Street video from the 8/28 post...wonderful!
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Sleeping with the Enemy
My little boys are far from enemies...as for now. But they do have plenty of rough spots (like a nice round of 'mine' 'mine' today). But obivously any trauma the oldest bestows upon the baby...it must get forgotten. Our 2yo likes to get out of bed and cuddle up with others. Last week, I found him cuddling a teddy bear in his brother's bed while his big brother cuddled him. Awwww...so cute. I would have snapped a pic if I wasn't afraid of waking them. They both deny the incident.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Everyone's in School!
Yesterday morning...everyone was in school, except me! And it was a nice feeling. I could have done anything for three hours! Oh, the possibilities are endless!
Everyone did fine. My 2yo, in a toddler class, just walked in and didn't even look back. I did say good-bye to him later. He had a great day but was exhausted. He fell asleep shortly after we got home and was crabby until about 3pm. My 4yo loved being the 'big kid' room next to his brother. He played the whole time with his 'favorite friend'. My 10yo got to come home early due to the heat and had her first day of homework. My husband had a great day at his paramedic class learning to save lives.
I got to drink a whole cup of coffee at one sitting...chat with some ladies at the gym...take a shower at home without interruption...and listen to the quiet house!
Everyone did fine. My 2yo, in a toddler class, just walked in and didn't even look back. I did say good-bye to him later. He had a great day but was exhausted. He fell asleep shortly after we got home and was crabby until about 3pm. My 4yo loved being the 'big kid' room next to his brother. He played the whole time with his 'favorite friend'. My 10yo got to come home early due to the heat and had her first day of homework. My husband had a great day at his paramedic class learning to save lives.
I got to drink a whole cup of coffee at one sitting...chat with some ladies at the gym...take a shower at home without interruption...and listen to the quiet house!
Monday, August 27, 2007
We are the Super Family...and we have no power!!
So, we visited Chicagoland this past weekend...despite warnings that the power was out. Terrible storms raged through on Thursday and left tens of thousands of people without power for days....when I left on Sunday afternoon, my mom was still in the dark. Of course our power has gone out before but I have never experienced a power outage of this magnitude. In many ways it was great!
Despite the desserts that needed to find safety in a neighbor's fridge...we did very well without electricity. We had a bit of a rush at dinner time to cook (the gas range worked) before sunset and shower quickly with what was left of the hot water. We also had to eat or dump everything in the fridge and freezer (that of which my mom has two). And traffic was a bit slow.
Because this effected everyone in town, it was a moment to work with and help your neighbors. You could see extension cords running across streets, people sharing generators, and food items. The coffee shops with electricty were busy with the internet-deprived (although my husband had enough battery to poach someone's connection from the yard).
But as my daughter said..."it was kind of nice. We got to talk to each other and play a lot." Wow! I completely took the opportunity to detox my kids from the summer TV/DVD addictions. My husband and I both felt very relaxed over the weekend we thought perhaps the lack of noise (no music, tv, running a/c), tv, phone calls, urge to check email and news.
One activity was playing Super Family with our new super capes (that I made upon my son's request). I made one for each of the 11 of us. We ran around the yard and neighborhood...saying "We are the Super Family, and we have no power!". It was fun.
Despite the desserts that needed to find safety in a neighbor's fridge...we did very well without electricity. We had a bit of a rush at dinner time to cook (the gas range worked) before sunset and shower quickly with what was left of the hot water. We also had to eat or dump everything in the fridge and freezer (that of which my mom has two). And traffic was a bit slow.
Because this effected everyone in town, it was a moment to work with and help your neighbors. You could see extension cords running across streets, people sharing generators, and food items. The coffee shops with electricty were busy with the internet-deprived (although my husband had enough battery to poach someone's connection from the yard).
But as my daughter said..."it was kind of nice. We got to talk to each other and play a lot." Wow! I completely took the opportunity to detox my kids from the summer TV/DVD addictions. My husband and I both felt very relaxed over the weekend we thought perhaps the lack of noise (no music, tv, running a/c), tv, phone calls, urge to check email and news.
One activity was playing Super Family with our new super capes (that I made upon my son's request). I made one for each of the 11 of us. We ran around the yard and neighborhood...saying "We are the Super Family, and we have no power!". It was fun.
Friday, August 24, 2007
A Must-Read
Some of you may have heard about this but I hadn't since yesterday. It just made my day yesterday. Her blog is great! Her trip to the store sounds oh too familiar...and I only have 3 kids.
An email from my cousin...
The following is an item description for Pokemon cards on ebay. It's an actual auction. The winning bid was $142.If you're a blog reader, hers is pretty entertaining. www.mom2my6pack.blogspot.com
Yesterday I was having a rather harried day with the kids. Reading her blog made me feel as if I'd had a sane day.
______________________________________________
I'm selling a bunch of Pokemon cards. Why? Because my kids sneaked them into my shopping cart while at the grocery store and I ended up buying them because I didn't notice they were there until we got home. How could I have possibly not noticed they were in my cart, you ask? Let me explain.
You haven’t lived until you’ve gone grocery shopping with six kids in tow. I would rather swim, covered in bait, through the English Channel, be a contestant on Fear Factor when they’re having pig brains for lunch, or do fourth grade math than to take my six kids to the grocery store. Because I absolutely detest grocery shopping, I tend to put it off as long as possible. There comes a time, however, when you’re peering into your fridge and thinking, ‘Hmmm, what can I make with ketchup, Italian dressing, and half an onion,’ that you decide you cannot avoid going to the grocery store any longer. Before beginning this most treacherous mission, I gather all the kids together and give them “The Lecture“.
“The Lecture“ goes like this…MOM: “We have to go to the grocery store.”
KIDS: “Whine whine whine whine whine.“
MOM: “Hey, I don’t want to go either, but it’s either that or we’re eating cream of onion-ketchup soup and drinking Italian dressing for dinner tonight.”
KIDS: “Whine whine whine whine whine.“
MOM: “Now here are the rules: do not ask me for anything, do not poke the packages of meat in the butcher section, do not test the laws of physics and try to take out the bottom can in the pyramid shaped display, do not play baseball with oranges in the produce section, and most importantly, do not try to leave your brother at the store. Again.”
OK, the kids have been briefed. Time to go.
Once at the store, we grab not one, but two shopping carts. I wear the baby in a sling and the two little children sit in the carts while I push one cart and my oldest son pushes the other one. My oldest daughter is not allowed to push a cart. Ever. Why? Because the last time I let her push the cart, she smashed into my ankles so many times, my feet had to be amputated by the end of our shopping trip. This is not a good thing. You try running after a toddler with no feet sometime.
At this point, a woman looks at our two carts and asks me, “Are they all yours?” I answer good naturedly, “Yep!
“Oh my, you have your hands full.”
“Yes, I do, but it‘s fun!” I say smiling.
I’ve heard all this before. In fact, I hear it every time I go anywhere with my brood.
We begin in the produce section where all these wonderfully, artistically arranged pyramids of fruit stand. There is something so irresistibly appealing about the apple on the bottom of the pile, that a child cannot help but try to touch it. Much like a bug to a zapper, the child is drawn to this piece of fruit. I turn around to the sounds of apples cascading down the display and onto the floor. Like Indiana Jones, there stands my son holding the all-consuming treasure that he just HAD to get and gazing at me with this dumbfounded look as if to say, “Did you see that??? Wow! I never thought that would happen!”I give the offending child an exasperated sigh and say, “Didn’t I tell you, before we left, that I didn’t want you taking stuff from the bottom of the pile???”“No. You said that you didn’t want us to take a can from the bottom of the pile. You didn’t say anything about apples.”With superhuman effort, I resist the urge to send my child to the moon and instead focus on the positive - my child actually listened to me and remembered what I said!!! I make a mental note to be a little more specific the next time I give the kids The Grocery Store Lecture.
A little old man looks at all of us and says, “Are all of those your kids?”Thinking about the apple incident, I reply, “Nope. They just started following me. I’ve never seen them before in my life.”
OK, now onto the bakery section where everything smells so good, I’m tempted to fill my cart with cookies and call it a day. Being on a perpetual diet, I try to hurry past the assortment of pies, cakes, breads, and pastries that have my children drooling. At this point the chorus of “Can we gets” begins.“Can we get donuts?”“No.”“Can we get cupcakes?”“No.”“Can we get muffins?”“No.”“Can we get pie?”“No.”
You’d think they’d catch on by this point, but no, they’re just getting started.
In the bakery, they’re giving away free samples of coffee cake and of course, my kids all take one. The toddler decides he doesn’t like it and proceeds to spit it out in my hand. (That’s what moms do. We put our hands in front of our children’s mouths so they can spit stuff into them. We’d rather carry around a handful of chewed up coffee cake, than to have the child spit it out onto the floor. I’m not sure why this is, but ask any mom and she’ll tell you the same.) Of course, there’s no garbage can around, so I continue shopping one-handed while searching for someplace to dispose of the regurgitated mess in my hand.
In the meat department, a mother with one small baby asks me, “Wow! Are all six yours?”
I answer her, “Yes, but I’m thinking of selling a couple of them.”(Still searching for a garbage can at this point.)
Ok, after the meat department, my kids’ attention spans are spent. They’re done shopping at this point, but we aren’t even halfway through the store. This is about the time they like to start having shopping cart races. And who may I thank for teaching them this fun pastime? My seventh “child”, also known as my husband. While I’m picking out loaves of bread, the kids are running down the aisle behind the carts in an effort to get us kicked out of the store. I put to stop to that just as my son is about to crash head on into a giant cardboard cut-out of a Keebler elf stacked with packages of cookies.
Ah! Yes! I find a small trash can by the coffee machine in the cereal aisle and finally dump out the squishy contents of my hand. After standing in the cereal aisle for an hour and a half while the kids perused the various cereals, comparing the marshmallow and cheap, plastic toy content of each box, I broke down and let them each pick out a box. At any given time, we have twenty open boxes of cereal in my house.
As this is going on, my toddler is playing Houdini and maneuvering his little body out of the seat belt in an attempt to stand up in the cart. I’m amazed the kid made it to his second birthday without suffering a brain damaging head injury. In between trying to flip himself out of the cart, he sucks on the metal bars of the shopping cart. Mmmm, can you say “influenza”?
The shopping trip continues much like this. I break up fights between the kids now and then and stoop down to pick up items that the toddler has flung out of the cart. I desperately try to get everything on my list without adding too many other goodies to the carts.
Somehow I manage to complete my shopping in under four hours and head for the check-outs where my kids start in on a chorus of, “Can we have candy?” What evil minded person decided it would be a good idea to put a display of candy in the check-out lanes, right at a child’s eye level? Obviously someone who has never been shopping with children.
As I unload the carts, I notice many extra items that my kids have sneaked in the carts unbeknownst to me. I remove a box of Twinkies, a package of cupcakes, a bag of candy, and a can of cat food (we don’t even have a cat!). I somehow missed the box of Pokemon cards however and ended up purchasing them unbeknownst to me. As I pay for my purchases, the clerk looks at me, indicates my kids, and asks, “Are they all yours?” Frustrated, exhausted from my trip, sick to my stomach from writing out a check for $289.53, dreading unloading all the groceries and putting them away and tired of hearing that question, I look at the clerk and answer her in my most sarcastic voice, “No. They’re not mine. I just go around the neighborhood gathering up kids to take to the grocery store because it’s so much more fun that way.”
So, up for auction is an opened (they ripped open the box on the way home from the store) package of Pokemon cards. There are 44 cards total. They're in perfect condition, as I took them away from the kiddos as soon as we got home from the store. Many of them say "Energy". I tried carrying them around with me, but they didn't work. I definitely didn't have any more energy than usual. One of them is shiny. There are a few creature-like things on many of them. One is called Pupitar. Hee hee hee Pupitar! (Oh no! My kids' sense of humor is rubbing off on me!) Anyway, I don't there's anything special about any of these cards, but I'm very much not an authority on Pokemon cards. I just know that I'm not letting my kids keep these as a reward for their sneakiness.
Shipping is FREE on this item. Insurance is optional, but once I drop the package at the post office, it is no longer my responsibility. For example, if my son decides to pour a bottle of glue into the envelope, or my daughter spills a glass of juice on the package, that’s my responsibility and I will fully refund your money. If, however, I take the envelope to the post office and a disgruntled mail carrier sets fire to it, a pack of wild dogs rip into it, or a mail sorting machine shreds it, it’s out of my hands, so you may want to add insurance. I will leave feedback for you as soon as I’ve received your payment. I will be happy to combine shipping on multiple items won within three days. This comes from a smoke-free, pet-free, child-filled home. Please ask me any questions before placing your bid. Happy bidding! :)
An email from my cousin...
The following is an item description for Pokemon cards on ebay. It's an actual auction. The winning bid was $142.If you're a blog reader, hers is pretty entertaining. www.mom2my6pack.blogspot.com
Yesterday I was having a rather harried day with the kids. Reading her blog made me feel as if I'd had a sane day.
______________________________________________
I'm selling a bunch of Pokemon cards. Why? Because my kids sneaked them into my shopping cart while at the grocery store and I ended up buying them because I didn't notice they were there until we got home. How could I have possibly not noticed they were in my cart, you ask? Let me explain.
You haven’t lived until you’ve gone grocery shopping with six kids in tow. I would rather swim, covered in bait, through the English Channel, be a contestant on Fear Factor when they’re having pig brains for lunch, or do fourth grade math than to take my six kids to the grocery store. Because I absolutely detest grocery shopping, I tend to put it off as long as possible. There comes a time, however, when you’re peering into your fridge and thinking, ‘Hmmm, what can I make with ketchup, Italian dressing, and half an onion,’ that you decide you cannot avoid going to the grocery store any longer. Before beginning this most treacherous mission, I gather all the kids together and give them “The Lecture“.
“The Lecture“ goes like this…MOM: “We have to go to the grocery store.”
KIDS: “Whine whine whine whine whine.“
MOM: “Hey, I don’t want to go either, but it’s either that or we’re eating cream of onion-ketchup soup and drinking Italian dressing for dinner tonight.”
KIDS: “Whine whine whine whine whine.“
MOM: “Now here are the rules: do not ask me for anything, do not poke the packages of meat in the butcher section, do not test the laws of physics and try to take out the bottom can in the pyramid shaped display, do not play baseball with oranges in the produce section, and most importantly, do not try to leave your brother at the store. Again.”
OK, the kids have been briefed. Time to go.
Once at the store, we grab not one, but two shopping carts. I wear the baby in a sling and the two little children sit in the carts while I push one cart and my oldest son pushes the other one. My oldest daughter is not allowed to push a cart. Ever. Why? Because the last time I let her push the cart, she smashed into my ankles so many times, my feet had to be amputated by the end of our shopping trip. This is not a good thing. You try running after a toddler with no feet sometime.
At this point, a woman looks at our two carts and asks me, “Are they all yours?” I answer good naturedly, “Yep!
“Oh my, you have your hands full.”
“Yes, I do, but it‘s fun!” I say smiling.
I’ve heard all this before. In fact, I hear it every time I go anywhere with my brood.
We begin in the produce section where all these wonderfully, artistically arranged pyramids of fruit stand. There is something so irresistibly appealing about the apple on the bottom of the pile, that a child cannot help but try to touch it. Much like a bug to a zapper, the child is drawn to this piece of fruit. I turn around to the sounds of apples cascading down the display and onto the floor. Like Indiana Jones, there stands my son holding the all-consuming treasure that he just HAD to get and gazing at me with this dumbfounded look as if to say, “Did you see that??? Wow! I never thought that would happen!”I give the offending child an exasperated sigh and say, “Didn’t I tell you, before we left, that I didn’t want you taking stuff from the bottom of the pile???”“No. You said that you didn’t want us to take a can from the bottom of the pile. You didn’t say anything about apples.”With superhuman effort, I resist the urge to send my child to the moon and instead focus on the positive - my child actually listened to me and remembered what I said!!! I make a mental note to be a little more specific the next time I give the kids The Grocery Store Lecture.
A little old man looks at all of us and says, “Are all of those your kids?”Thinking about the apple incident, I reply, “Nope. They just started following me. I’ve never seen them before in my life.”
OK, now onto the bakery section where everything smells so good, I’m tempted to fill my cart with cookies and call it a day. Being on a perpetual diet, I try to hurry past the assortment of pies, cakes, breads, and pastries that have my children drooling. At this point the chorus of “Can we gets” begins.“Can we get donuts?”“No.”“Can we get cupcakes?”“No.”“Can we get muffins?”“No.”“Can we get pie?”“No.”
You’d think they’d catch on by this point, but no, they’re just getting started.
In the bakery, they’re giving away free samples of coffee cake and of course, my kids all take one. The toddler decides he doesn’t like it and proceeds to spit it out in my hand. (That’s what moms do. We put our hands in front of our children’s mouths so they can spit stuff into them. We’d rather carry around a handful of chewed up coffee cake, than to have the child spit it out onto the floor. I’m not sure why this is, but ask any mom and she’ll tell you the same.) Of course, there’s no garbage can around, so I continue shopping one-handed while searching for someplace to dispose of the regurgitated mess in my hand.
In the meat department, a mother with one small baby asks me, “Wow! Are all six yours?”
I answer her, “Yes, but I’m thinking of selling a couple of them.”(Still searching for a garbage can at this point.)
Ok, after the meat department, my kids’ attention spans are spent. They’re done shopping at this point, but we aren’t even halfway through the store. This is about the time they like to start having shopping cart races. And who may I thank for teaching them this fun pastime? My seventh “child”, also known as my husband. While I’m picking out loaves of bread, the kids are running down the aisle behind the carts in an effort to get us kicked out of the store. I put to stop to that just as my son is about to crash head on into a giant cardboard cut-out of a Keebler elf stacked with packages of cookies.
Ah! Yes! I find a small trash can by the coffee machine in the cereal aisle and finally dump out the squishy contents of my hand. After standing in the cereal aisle for an hour and a half while the kids perused the various cereals, comparing the marshmallow and cheap, plastic toy content of each box, I broke down and let them each pick out a box. At any given time, we have twenty open boxes of cereal in my house.
As this is going on, my toddler is playing Houdini and maneuvering his little body out of the seat belt in an attempt to stand up in the cart. I’m amazed the kid made it to his second birthday without suffering a brain damaging head injury. In between trying to flip himself out of the cart, he sucks on the metal bars of the shopping cart. Mmmm, can you say “influenza”?
The shopping trip continues much like this. I break up fights between the kids now and then and stoop down to pick up items that the toddler has flung out of the cart. I desperately try to get everything on my list without adding too many other goodies to the carts.
Somehow I manage to complete my shopping in under four hours and head for the check-outs where my kids start in on a chorus of, “Can we have candy?” What evil minded person decided it would be a good idea to put a display of candy in the check-out lanes, right at a child’s eye level? Obviously someone who has never been shopping with children.
As I unload the carts, I notice many extra items that my kids have sneaked in the carts unbeknownst to me. I remove a box of Twinkies, a package of cupcakes, a bag of candy, and a can of cat food (we don’t even have a cat!). I somehow missed the box of Pokemon cards however and ended up purchasing them unbeknownst to me. As I pay for my purchases, the clerk looks at me, indicates my kids, and asks, “Are they all yours?” Frustrated, exhausted from my trip, sick to my stomach from writing out a check for $289.53, dreading unloading all the groceries and putting them away and tired of hearing that question, I look at the clerk and answer her in my most sarcastic voice, “No. They’re not mine. I just go around the neighborhood gathering up kids to take to the grocery store because it’s so much more fun that way.”
So, up for auction is an opened (they ripped open the box on the way home from the store) package of Pokemon cards. There are 44 cards total. They're in perfect condition, as I took them away from the kiddos as soon as we got home from the store. Many of them say "Energy". I tried carrying them around with me, but they didn't work. I definitely didn't have any more energy than usual. One of them is shiny. There are a few creature-like things on many of them. One is called Pupitar. Hee hee hee Pupitar! (Oh no! My kids' sense of humor is rubbing off on me!) Anyway, I don't there's anything special about any of these cards, but I'm very much not an authority on Pokemon cards. I just know that I'm not letting my kids keep these as a reward for their sneakiness.
Shipping is FREE on this item. Insurance is optional, but once I drop the package at the post office, it is no longer my responsibility. For example, if my son decides to pour a bottle of glue into the envelope, or my daughter spills a glass of juice on the package, that’s my responsibility and I will fully refund your money. If, however, I take the envelope to the post office and a disgruntled mail carrier sets fire to it, a pack of wild dogs rip into it, or a mail sorting machine shreds it, it’s out of my hands, so you may want to add insurance. I will leave feedback for you as soon as I’ve received your payment. I will be happy to combine shipping on multiple items won within three days. This comes from a smoke-free, pet-free, child-filled home. Please ask me any questions before placing your bid. Happy bidding! :)
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Freebies
I love free samples....especially because I often forget about them in the 6 weeks it takes to arrive. What a surprise in the mail. I love ordering free samples of products I already use or would like to use but are too expensive for us....they often give you coupons or offer email coupons. I love them so much...as we were watching TV last night and a commercial came on saying...for a free sample...my husband said...you're going to get one aren't you? Of course...it's free!
Today's free sample: Folger's Coffee.
My favorite sample site is Dove (since I love their products). They offer lots and often. Find the companies and restaurants you like online and see what they have to offer.
Today's free sample: Folger's Coffee.
Monday, August 20, 2007
TV Movie Review
High School Musical 2
So, after watching this made-for-tv movie about 5 times in three days, including a sing-along version (although I haven't watched it all the way through yet)....I have concluded that this one is a good one. If you having been living in the dark (or a kid-free life)...you may not know about this phenomenon...but it is a big one. Last year, High School Musical (HSM) came out on Disney Channel and we happened upon it....and loved it. Our daughter is at prime age for this kind of thing and she is obsessed. The first one was good and really got kids into musicals (as perhaps seeing Singing in the Rain or the Wiz did for us). From there...several stage shows, a concert tour, an ice show (what doesn't look good on ice?!), merchandise!!! have been created. The soundtrack was the best selling album of 2006! So, of course, the producers are seeing sequels (#3 is in the works).
So, after months of promos....High School Musical 2 finally premiered on Friday. We hosted a party of pre-teen girls who giggled, sang, and danced along with the new movie. They proved themselves true fans and rocked out on some commercial-break HSM trivia. The girls liked it but agreed that the first one was better (I think because of its originality). And all of them thought Zac Efron was a bit too cheesy and wanted more of the other teen hunks (especially Corbin Blue). But they loved the music and dance numbers and, of course, my daughter feels obligated to watch it whenever it is on.
This one takes place over the summer of their junior year. Amazingly, they all get jobs at the same place, a country club owned by the family of the movie's villain, Sharpay (played well by Suite Life's Ashley Tisdale). I suppose the major conflict is Sharpay's quest to get Troy (Hairspray's Zac Efron) all to herself. After a lot of Efron's hairdo and solos, all ends happy (complete with a pool party).
The songs in this one are as good as the first...Tisdale's Fabulous and You are the Music in Me as well as I Don't Dance (replacing the basketball dance with baseball here) are the best. The dancing is great Broadway-style choreography with some hip-hop mixed in. There are several moments reminiscent of Dirty Dancing (e.g. talent show, the staff singing and dancing together on breaks) and Grease (just watch the opening number). I wanted more of Gabriella (Vanessa Hudgens), Chad (Blue), and Taylor (Monique Coleman, who is looking a little too old to be in hs...being 23)...this was a bit too much Troy . I am waiting to see Efron act as something besides 'most popular guy in school'. I also wasn't sure if it was because Hudgens and Efron are real-life sweethearts or acting ability...but there better be some health class sex ed in the next one because it sure looked like they were ready to get it on.
But overall, highly enjoyable. I'm sure the soundtrack will be played often in our house and car. I'm not sure its ready for the movie theater (as the 3rd one is proposed to be). however. And I not sure the future of HSM 2 (I doubt they will make a stage show of this one...but perhaps add some of the songs into the ice show). Check it out...at the very least so you will be hip with the youngsters.
Friday, August 17, 2007
Oh, How They Grow....
...like big weeds!
Oh course I know that my kids will grow up but I am always amazed at how fast it happens. We went to buy shoes for school (Payless BOGO). All the kids had gained at least 1 shoe size since the spring. My daughter is actually in a bigger size than me! Then we measured their height on the wall in our kitchen....all the kids had grown at least 1 1/2 inches since May! And I went through our baby's dresser (something I do around their birthdays) and pulled out all the 18mon stuff (since it obviously was nowhere close to fitting).
It is just so amazing!
Oh course I know that my kids will grow up but I am always amazed at how fast it happens. We went to buy shoes for school (Payless BOGO). All the kids had gained at least 1 shoe size since the spring. My daughter is actually in a bigger size than me! Then we measured their height on the wall in our kitchen....all the kids had grown at least 1 1/2 inches since May! And I went through our baby's dresser (something I do around their birthdays) and pulled out all the 18mon stuff (since it obviously was nowhere close to fitting).
It is just so amazing!
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Lessons in Regular Life
People often tell me my kids are so smart...and although I think they are innately brilliant (ha, ha)...I have to admit that I 'work' with my kids all the time. However, I rarely sit down and do structured academics with them (even our 10yo). I take whatever we are doing and use it to learn something new or practice something old.
For example....
Learning left and right...
Our 3yo is really interested in this so we ran with it (tip!). The best place to practice this skill is in the car (since you naturally make lots of turns). I start by telling him which way I am turning (running commentaries are good!). Later, I ask him which way we are turning (and correct him, if necessary). We have taught him that right is with the hand he writes with (sorry, lefties). And ask him to raise his hand on the correct side. We also say they we are putting on his left shoe or mention that his is eating with his right or his sister is sitting on his left, etc.
Making print important....
One step in learning to read is understanding that print/words are important and tell important information. Therefore, I point out print and tell them what it says (often running my finger under the words). For example, our 3yo noticed a Wet Floor sign on the floor at a restaurant. He asked what it said...I told him and he repeated it. Next time we saw it, I asked him what it said. We also look at street signs while driving and see what they say (like hospital, library, stop, street signs).
Counting...
You can count anything (and count almost anything backwards). Our 1yo likes to count but in the wrong order...and that's ok. Since our 3yo can count into teens (not too precisely), we ask him to count things...like you can pick 5 books at the library or you need to eat 10 more peas. Our 10yo (obviously can count) so we use a lot of real life math all the time (cooking is great for this, or shopping, figuring out times, etc.).
Honestly, I often do not even think about what I am doing. I am simply talking to my kids (we talk a lot---that's a great strategy for ALL types of learning (social, cognitive, emotional, motor, literacy, language)). But in retrospection, I think they have learned a lot about lots of stuff through simple everyday occurrences and play. So, relax about what your child is learning and get involved with them and use opportunities as they arise!
For example....
Learning left and right...
Our 3yo is really interested in this so we ran with it (tip!). The best place to practice this skill is in the car (since you naturally make lots of turns). I start by telling him which way I am turning (running commentaries are good!). Later, I ask him which way we are turning (and correct him, if necessary). We have taught him that right is with the hand he writes with (sorry, lefties). And ask him to raise his hand on the correct side. We also say they we are putting on his left shoe or mention that his is eating with his right or his sister is sitting on his left, etc.
Making print important....
One step in learning to read is understanding that print/words are important and tell important information. Therefore, I point out print and tell them what it says (often running my finger under the words). For example, our 3yo noticed a Wet Floor sign on the floor at a restaurant. He asked what it said...I told him and he repeated it. Next time we saw it, I asked him what it said. We also look at street signs while driving and see what they say (like hospital, library, stop, street signs).
Counting...
You can count anything (and count almost anything backwards). Our 1yo likes to count but in the wrong order...and that's ok. Since our 3yo can count into teens (not too precisely), we ask him to count things...like you can pick 5 books at the library or you need to eat 10 more peas. Our 10yo (obviously can count) so we use a lot of real life math all the time (cooking is great for this, or shopping, figuring out times, etc.).
Honestly, I often do not even think about what I am doing. I am simply talking to my kids (we talk a lot---that's a great strategy for ALL types of learning (social, cognitive, emotional, motor, literacy, language)). But in retrospection, I think they have learned a lot about lots of stuff through simple everyday occurrences and play. So, relax about what your child is learning and get involved with them and use opportunities as they arise!
Monday, August 13, 2007
A Hyphenated Nation
There is a big trend going on...hyphenating last names. Especially working with kids, you really never know what a kid's last name will be or his parents' last names. I admit....we are a hyphenated family.
Personally, I hyphenated my last name when I got married because I was exercising my feminist tendencies. The reason why women change their names (e.g. being owned by their husbands) doesn't jive with me. Additionally, I like my name and didn't want to give it up just because I was getting married. I also thinks it represents the union of families. So, all our kids have hyphenated names. And so do many of their friends.
However, I find it very interesting that people often choose to drop one of our names. And I really don't understand why (with the exception of the intimidating Polish spelling). If your last name was Johnson...and someone called you John...you would think that was wrong. But people do it to us all the time (including my father on a personalized holiday present once). If I wanted to be known as a different name I would do that but I don't...I want people to call me and my family by our real names. (I will note that when ordering food, etc. I will often use my husband's short and easy to pronounce name).
Another problem of this trend is...what will happen when my kids get married? And what if they marry another hyphenator? Will names just get longer (Madeline Smith-Johnson-Beahm-Dean)? Will they drop part of the name? Will they create a new last name? Who knows...we'll have to see. (At least my kids middle names are also family names, to keep them alive).
Personally, I hyphenated my last name when I got married because I was exercising my feminist tendencies. The reason why women change their names (e.g. being owned by their husbands) doesn't jive with me. Additionally, I like my name and didn't want to give it up just because I was getting married. I also thinks it represents the union of families. So, all our kids have hyphenated names. And so do many of their friends.
However, I find it very interesting that people often choose to drop one of our names. And I really don't understand why (with the exception of the intimidating Polish spelling). If your last name was Johnson...and someone called you John...you would think that was wrong. But people do it to us all the time (including my father on a personalized holiday present once). If I wanted to be known as a different name I would do that but I don't...I want people to call me and my family by our real names. (I will note that when ordering food, etc. I will often use my husband's short and easy to pronounce name).
Another problem of this trend is...what will happen when my kids get married? And what if they marry another hyphenator? Will names just get longer (Madeline Smith-Johnson-Beahm-Dean)? Will they drop part of the name? Will they create a new last name? Who knows...we'll have to see. (At least my kids middle names are also family names, to keep them alive).
Friday, August 10, 2007
Restaurant Review: Blues BBQ
After trying to catch a last meal at Strawberry Fields yesterday (sadly they have closed their cafe...one of our favorite lunch spots, boo hoo...), we ended up in campustown, trying to catch a meal somewhere we normally avoid during the school year. We tried out a place we pass all the time and say 'we should go there'...Blues BBQ.
It was 5pm on Friday...over the summer...so we were the only people there. Which was fine with us since our boys have decided to go crazy everytime in public these days. They have a somewhat conservative menu but all the essentials to good barbeque including chicken, pork (really good!), brisket (great!), steak tip, and ribs. And they have meatloaf! I love meatloaf! They also have hot links and hot dogs. Their sides include mac and cheese (which was awesome!), coleslaw (ok), potato salad (ok), red beans and rice...with sausage (great!), corn bread, potato wedges, baked potatoes, bbq corn, baked beans, and collard greens (we didn't try these yet). We saw but did not indulge in the monster-sized cookies, brownies, and apple blossoms. They also have a veggie sandwich but I didn't ask what it was.
Everything we had was good and very reasonably priced. Although they don't have a kids' menu (why would a campus place need one, really)...we got the kids a side of mac and cheese and a hot dog to share. And it was plenty for the two little ones. The portions were big. Great for dinner (especially since we really didn't eat lunch) but probably too big for lunch. I think my husband I could share a sandwich meal for lunch with ease. The service as fast and hot.
They are open late (so a great meal after a show at Krannert). They also delivery and cater. Additionally, they have a frozen section of meats that you can bring home and heat up yourself.
We would recommend it to anyone (and they have other locations in IL) who likes a good bbq sandwich and good, Southern sides. Honestly, I still think Hickory River is the best in town but this one is up there and more convenient at times.
It was 5pm on Friday...over the summer...so we were the only people there. Which was fine with us since our boys have decided to go crazy everytime in public these days. They have a somewhat conservative menu but all the essentials to good barbeque including chicken, pork (really good!), brisket (great!), steak tip, and ribs. And they have meatloaf! I love meatloaf! They also have hot links and hot dogs. Their sides include mac and cheese (which was awesome!), coleslaw (ok), potato salad (ok), red beans and rice...with sausage (great!), corn bread, potato wedges, baked potatoes, bbq corn, baked beans, and collard greens (we didn't try these yet). We saw but did not indulge in the monster-sized cookies, brownies, and apple blossoms. They also have a veggie sandwich but I didn't ask what it was.
Everything we had was good and very reasonably priced. Although they don't have a kids' menu (why would a campus place need one, really)...we got the kids a side of mac and cheese and a hot dog to share. And it was plenty for the two little ones. The portions were big. Great for dinner (especially since we really didn't eat lunch) but probably too big for lunch. I think my husband I could share a sandwich meal for lunch with ease. The service as fast and hot.
They are open late (so a great meal after a show at Krannert). They also delivery and cater. Additionally, they have a frozen section of meats that you can bring home and heat up yourself.
We would recommend it to anyone (and they have other locations in IL) who likes a good bbq sandwich and good, Southern sides. Honestly, I still think Hickory River is the best in town but this one is up there and more convenient at times.
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Recipe!
My mom had dinner the other day and didn't have dessert for us (what?!). So, as usual, I decided to make something. Of course, the supplies were a bit scarce (e.g. no eggs...which makes baking anything a challenge). So, I came across this recipe for cookies and adapted it a bit on the spot. It was delicious and without the butter and eggs (and if you omit the chips), you can make a case for it to be a healthier dessert choice (or justify adding ice cream and chocolate sauce). You can also make as a mix to give as gifts.
Vegan Chocolate Brownies (or cookies)
3/4 cup veg oil
1/2 cup white sugar
1 cup brown sugar
2 tsp vanilla
1/2 cup soy milk (or cow milk)
2 cup flour (1/2 wheat, 1/2 white)
3/4 cup cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 cup chocolate chips (carob, if you want to keep it completely vegan)
Add nuts, if desired
Combine dry ingredients in large bowl. Add oil, vanilla, and milk. Combine until moist (do not overmix). Fold in chocolate chips. Spread into 9x13 pan sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. Bake at 350F for 25-30 mins or until knife comes out clean.
Can also make as cookies. Bake 350F for 8-10 mins (do not overbake).
Vegan Chocolate Brownies (or cookies)
3/4 cup veg oil
1/2 cup white sugar
1 cup brown sugar
2 tsp vanilla
1/2 cup soy milk (or cow milk)
2 cup flour (1/2 wheat, 1/2 white)
3/4 cup cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 cup chocolate chips (carob, if you want to keep it completely vegan)
Add nuts, if desired
Combine dry ingredients in large bowl. Add oil, vanilla, and milk. Combine until moist (do not overmix). Fold in chocolate chips. Spread into 9x13 pan sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. Bake at 350F for 25-30 mins or until knife comes out clean.
Can also make as cookies. Bake 350F for 8-10 mins (do not overbake).
Just one of those weeks...
It has just been crazy around here..........
Its hot so we are inside a lot (which doesn't agree with the kids).
The cat is sick (after initially calling the vet, they asked us to get a urine sample...from a cat...).
The baby won't nap anymore...so is very crabby come 4pm.
My husband is crazy busy with work...I think he lives here still but I haven't really seen him.
My 3yo wants to dress himself..this is good until he asked where his snowpants were.
Because the cat was sick, I missed talking to someone about registration at school and therefore had to waste a bunch of time waiting around (for nothing in the end) which caused me to miss an appointment at work...which makes me feel really bad (really, I was very puctual and reliable before kids).
My littlest one is eating deodorant again (why does he keep trying it?).
My husband suggested we go out to dinner, so I didn't have to cook...the boys were in a crazy mood and I'm surprised we didn't get kicked out.
Our dryer is broken...almost causing a fire (ok, that's a bit of exaggeration but not too much).
Our printer ran out of ink.
My husband's power cord is broken so we are sharing one (I do not recommended it).
I'm totally exhausted and overwhelmed with work and daily life.....
but I took time to have an iced coffee and watch So You Think You Can Dance last night...so all will be well (except the cat...who should be well soon enough).
Its hot so we are inside a lot (which doesn't agree with the kids).
The cat is sick (after initially calling the vet, they asked us to get a urine sample...from a cat...).
The baby won't nap anymore...so is very crabby come 4pm.
My husband is crazy busy with work...I think he lives here still but I haven't really seen him.
My 3yo wants to dress himself..this is good until he asked where his snowpants were.
Because the cat was sick, I missed talking to someone about registration at school and therefore had to waste a bunch of time waiting around (for nothing in the end) which caused me to miss an appointment at work...which makes me feel really bad (really, I was very puctual and reliable before kids).
My littlest one is eating deodorant again (why does he keep trying it?).
My husband suggested we go out to dinner, so I didn't have to cook...the boys were in a crazy mood and I'm surprised we didn't get kicked out.
Our dryer is broken...almost causing a fire (ok, that's a bit of exaggeration but not too much).
Our printer ran out of ink.
My husband's power cord is broken so we are sharing one (I do not recommended it).
I'm totally exhausted and overwhelmed with work and daily life.....
but I took time to have an iced coffee and watch So You Think You Can Dance last night...so all will be well (except the cat...who should be well soon enough).
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
Fast Food Nation
There was an article on msnbc.com yesterday about how kids prefer McDonald's food over other food (and when I was working, kids always recognized the Golden Arches but not always the ABC's). Although we could discuss the nutritional value of fast food...the article was more concerned with advertising and regulating advertising to children.
Now my kids, especially the little ones, don't really watch a lot of commercial television. We do a lot of DVD's, PBS, and the preschool blocks on Nick and Disney (which show the programs without any commercials). And I thought that was pretty safe, however, the sponsors of PBS, for example, are McDonald's and Chucky Cheese (among others, Dannon, Juicy Juicy....). So my kids to see this. Fortunately, we don't eat fast food often (although a good Steak and Shake dinner is a treat) my little ones don't even know what McDonald's or Chucky Cheese serves...but they do know they exist and talk about them. We also look through magazines together and there are ads in there as well. And we drive, so the kids see billboards. You just can't escape them.
So, instead of shielding our kids from the outside world, we teach them that you can see cool stuff on TV and in magazines but you don't NEED everything. You may ask for special things on your birthday and holidays BUT you may still not get them. And we talk about making good and healthy choices with our meals (e.g. while at Steak and Shake a couple weeks ago, my son choose apples and grapes over fries). And they know that my cooking is better than anywhere else anyways!
**Remember that parents make the ultimate decisions for many, many years (my 3yo isn't driving himself to McDonald's or running over to Target for a new toy). Plus, I am the one with the money (although my daughter has some money that she is allowed to do whatever she pleases with...but we do consult on major purchases).
There will always be corporations (and the government) telling us what we think we need and what we should buy and eat....but we can always make the choice ourselves...so we need to give our kids the skills to make those decisions.
Now my kids, especially the little ones, don't really watch a lot of commercial television. We do a lot of DVD's, PBS, and the preschool blocks on Nick and Disney (which show the programs without any commercials). And I thought that was pretty safe, however, the sponsors of PBS, for example, are McDonald's and Chucky Cheese (among others, Dannon, Juicy Juicy....). So my kids to see this. Fortunately, we don't eat fast food often (although a good Steak and Shake dinner is a treat) my little ones don't even know what McDonald's or Chucky Cheese serves...but they do know they exist and talk about them. We also look through magazines together and there are ads in there as well. And we drive, so the kids see billboards. You just can't escape them.
So, instead of shielding our kids from the outside world, we teach them that you can see cool stuff on TV and in magazines but you don't NEED everything. You may ask for special things on your birthday and holidays BUT you may still not get them. And we talk about making good and healthy choices with our meals (e.g. while at Steak and Shake a couple weeks ago, my son choose apples and grapes over fries). And they know that my cooking is better than anywhere else anyways!
**Remember that parents make the ultimate decisions for many, many years (my 3yo isn't driving himself to McDonald's or running over to Target for a new toy). Plus, I am the one with the money (although my daughter has some money that she is allowed to do whatever she pleases with...but we do consult on major purchases).
There will always be corporations (and the government) telling us what we think we need and what we should buy and eat....but we can always make the choice ourselves...so we need to give our kids the skills to make those decisions.
Monday, August 06, 2007
Hot, Hot, Hot!
It is HOT here in Central Illinois! It is quite discouraging to see that the 10-day forecast is basically "hot" and "hotter". This week we should officially hit over 100F! Not to mention the humidity.
So, what do you do? We stay in air-conditioning as much as possible. Its almost like its the dead of winter again. We entertain ourselves as best we can without going outside for more than 10 mins at a time and try not to sweat too much. Library, movies, gym, grocery store....its all cold. We have even avoid the pool, its so hot and crowded. It is a bit of a challenge since the kids loves to play outside and like to go out with them too.
I hope it cools off when school starts in a couple weeks. You can't learn in this heat.
What do you do to stay cool?
So, what do you do? We stay in air-conditioning as much as possible. Its almost like its the dead of winter again. We entertain ourselves as best we can without going outside for more than 10 mins at a time and try not to sweat too much. Library, movies, gym, grocery store....its all cold. We have even avoid the pool, its so hot and crowded. It is a bit of a challenge since the kids loves to play outside and like to go out with them too.
I hope it cools off when school starts in a couple weeks. You can't learn in this heat.
What do you do to stay cool?
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Theater Babies
I was brought up in the theater....literally...sleeping in the costume shop....holding pins in fittings...my mom is a costume designer and shop manager at Steppenwolf in Chicago. Of course I was interested in theater then...I met my husband in a children's' theater production in 8th grade. We are theater people for sure. Love it! This has rolled over into the next generation. My daughter was just recently in Honk!. Now she was a theater baby too. She, too, was brought along to rehearsals, fittings, meetings, performances starting prenatally. She loves being in theater and seeing it. And she has great theater manners.
Now the boys...there's something different. Because when I had the boys I was a stay-home mom and my husband was no longer directly involved in theater, they had little opportunity to get in on the theater fun. We don't even go the movies that much. Last year I brought them to a performance of fairy tales by the Jr. Performers at Urbana Park District....didn't go too well. But they really wanted to see their sister in her show. We went to Crystal Lake to see the company perform and my 3yo loved it! Cheering and dancing! So, let's try bringing them to the real performance.
We had a back-up plan. I had seen the show several times, so if they couldn't make it, I could leave (and a cookies at intermission was good). But they loved it! The 1yo kept repeating the lines "Honk! Honk! Quack!" so my husband asked me to take him to the back....but then he just screamed "Sit down!" So we sat through the whole show with him dancing, singing, identifying all the scenery, and nursing some to keep him quiet. My 3yo did a running commentary....telling us every time his sister was on stage and asking where she was if she was off. He was very concerned about the ugly duckling "he looks so sad...where did all his friends go?" But overall, they liked it and they weren't loud enough that anyone complained (at least to us). Many thought they were cute. After all, it was children's theater.
So, I think even though they were not exposed to theater in vitro....there may still be a chance for them!
Now the boys...there's something different. Because when I had the boys I was a stay-home mom and my husband was no longer directly involved in theater, they had little opportunity to get in on the theater fun. We don't even go the movies that much. Last year I brought them to a performance of fairy tales by the Jr. Performers at Urbana Park District....didn't go too well. But they really wanted to see their sister in her show. We went to Crystal Lake to see the company perform and my 3yo loved it! Cheering and dancing! So, let's try bringing them to the real performance.
We had a back-up plan. I had seen the show several times, so if they couldn't make it, I could leave (and a cookies at intermission was good). But they loved it! The 1yo kept repeating the lines "Honk! Honk! Quack!" so my husband asked me to take him to the back....but then he just screamed "Sit down!" So we sat through the whole show with him dancing, singing, identifying all the scenery, and nursing some to keep him quiet. My 3yo did a running commentary....telling us every time his sister was on stage and asking where she was if she was off. He was very concerned about the ugly duckling "he looks so sad...where did all his friends go?" But overall, they liked it and they weren't loud enough that anyone complained (at least to us). Many thought they were cute. After all, it was children's theater.
So, I think even though they were not exposed to theater in vitro....there may still be a chance for them!
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Movie Review
Hairspray (PG, 1hr 47min)
This is a movie about a musical that is about a movie....but one of my favorites. I love the John Waters movie but haven't seen the musical (although I enjoy the soundtrack). And in this upcoming age of musicals (thank you!)...this is a great one to get people back into the genre. Besides the great music (listen to the hilarious lyrics), dancing (all big Broadway), costumes (actual vintage), sets...the message is great...and the cast will bring in many ages. My 5yo niece loved it...and I can see why...it is mostly all music and dancing.
The story is actually about integration in the 6o's including race and size. And it is a nice one for the younger set to understand what life was like only 45 years ago and what remains of that in current society. Maybe even encourage some activism. But in addition to the social message....it might get them singing and dancing (which is good for lots of things).
The cast is fabulous! Newcomer Nicole Blonsky is amazing and really gives some encouragement to kids to reach for their dreams (ok, I saw her on Oprah). High School Musical's Zac Efron is a great heartthrob (watch out for your pre-teen girls!) and Amanda Bynes is always a joy to watch. Christopher Walken steps out of his usual creepiness to play a really sweet daddy. Michelle Pfeiffer plays the evil former Miss Baltimore Crown with her usual sexy cunning. Queen Latifah is fabulous as always. And of course, John Travolta is SUPER! he plays a perfect insecure yet strong momma (a perfect match to Walken!). There are also a few cameos from stars of the original movie and musical.
If you kids are over 5yrs...it is a great family movie (either now in the theater or later for a family movie night).
Friday, July 27, 2007
Happy Birthday La Leche!
La Leche League recently celebrated its 50th Birthday! Congratulations!
Of course, I am a breastfeeding momma (going on 4 yrs straight....our youngest has almost reached the 2 yr mark)...and I am a huge supporter of breastfeeding families. So, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that La Leche was founded in my hometown...how crazy.
Here's a good article from the Chicago Trib
Give LaLeche a Break
Honestly, I have never gone to a La Leche meeting (the times don't work with our schedule) but I wish I had the time. Their website is very informational and the leaders are warm and welcoming to phone calls and emails. Like it says in the article, La Leche has this breastfeeding-nazi perception however, although this is not always true, this clear and strong message has helped change the way Americans feed their babies.
Of course, I am a breastfeeding momma (going on 4 yrs straight....our youngest has almost reached the 2 yr mark)...and I am a huge supporter of breastfeeding families. So, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that La Leche was founded in my hometown...how crazy.
Here's a good article from the Chicago Trib
Give LaLeche a Break
Honestly, I have never gone to a La Leche meeting (the times don't work with our schedule) but I wish I had the time. Their website is very informational and the leaders are warm and welcoming to phone calls and emails. Like it says in the article, La Leche has this breastfeeding-nazi perception however, although this is not always true, this clear and strong message has helped change the way Americans feed their babies.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Honk! for Childrens' Theater
This weekend...the Urbana Park District is presenting Honk! the musical version of the ugly duckling. It is a sweet show with some great performances by our local youth, including my 10yo.
Check it out!
Honk!
at the Parkland Theater, Champaign
Wednesday, July 25-Saturday, July 28th at 730pm
Tickets are $12 for adults and $6 for kids
If you have little ones that might not sit through a big show...check out Down on the Farm on Saturday at 2pm.
Kids perform special and unique versions of nursery rhymes.
Monday, July 23, 2007
Don't Walk...Run!
I know its only mid-July, but according to the retail world, Fall is upon us! Although I hate the idea of buying school supplies and wool sweaters in this heat....I sure do like the clearance sales! Now is the time to pick some great stuff for NEXT summer!
Head out and get a new bathing suit! Buy new ones for the ever-growing children (buy at least 1 size larger)! Sandles too. Pool items are usually a great find this time of year too...saying you can still use them for a bit. Find a cute dress for that upcoming wedding season (I learned last year that you can't buy summer dresses in August).
End-of-season sales are the best...but also don't go crazy of the bat...prices (and selection, however) will go down as the summer comes to and eventual end.
Head out and get a new bathing suit! Buy new ones for the ever-growing children (buy at least 1 size larger)! Sandles too. Pool items are usually a great find this time of year too...saying you can still use them for a bit. Find a cute dress for that upcoming wedding season (I learned last year that you can't buy summer dresses in August).
End-of-season sales are the best...but also don't go crazy of the bat...prices (and selection, however) will go down as the summer comes to and eventual end.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Clean-up Cookies and Puppy Dogs
So, a follow-up on the Mess Control here....
Today I made a batch of Clean-up Cookies!
I started making chocolate chip cookies (really to satisfy my PMS cravings)....when I started I said that anyone who wants a cookie needs to clean up all the toys out in the living and dining rooms...by the time I am finished baking them.
Well, that worked. My 3yo also cleaned up the porch. This also works with Clean-up Cupcakes or Muffins!
Then...the boys are really into pretending to be puppy dogs...so I had the puppies fetch all the large Lego pieces (not the small, choking-hazard ones) and put them in the bucket. That worked too.
It all would have been heavenly, had the belt on the vacuum not broken!! Doh!!!
Today I made a batch of Clean-up Cookies!
I started making chocolate chip cookies (really to satisfy my PMS cravings)....when I started I said that anyone who wants a cookie needs to clean up all the toys out in the living and dining rooms...by the time I am finished baking them.
Well, that worked. My 3yo also cleaned up the porch. This also works with Clean-up Cupcakes or Muffins!
Then...the boys are really into pretending to be puppy dogs...so I had the puppies fetch all the large Lego pieces (not the small, choking-hazard ones) and put them in the bucket. That worked too.
It all would have been heavenly, had the belt on the vacuum not broken!! Doh!!!
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Is it hopeless?
At least once a week...I look around at the end of the day and ask...does it even matter that I clean up...should I just give up?
I do take time every day to clean up all the toys, cups, miscellaneous food items, books, etc. that have been pulled out. And if I do this after the kids go to bed...I can even sit back and enjoy the cleanliness. But...within moments of the kids being awake, it all over again. I look around and say "didn't I just clean all this stuff up?" And always think "someone else better start cleaning this up." None of the stuff is mine. The kids do try to help out, sometimes.
Of course after watching Oprah this week (something I rarely do) about over-cluttered homes, I will never let my house get that bad. And after all...my house is always clean (clean toilets, dusted, and vacuumed (although that task could be done 3 times a day))...but it is rarely perfectly tidy. Oh well...eventually the kids will grow up and they won't even play with all those puzzles that get dumped everyday...the train set will be packed up...the many picture books will be stored away....no one will want to dress up or play tea party...
I do take time every day to clean up all the toys, cups, miscellaneous food items, books, etc. that have been pulled out. And if I do this after the kids go to bed...I can even sit back and enjoy the cleanliness. But...within moments of the kids being awake, it all over again. I look around and say "didn't I just clean all this stuff up?" And always think "someone else better start cleaning this up." None of the stuff is mine. The kids do try to help out, sometimes.
Of course after watching Oprah this week (something I rarely do) about over-cluttered homes, I will never let my house get that bad. And after all...my house is always clean (clean toilets, dusted, and vacuumed (although that task could be done 3 times a day))...but it is rarely perfectly tidy. Oh well...eventually the kids will grow up and they won't even play with all those puzzles that get dumped everyday...the train set will be packed up...the many picture books will be stored away....no one will want to dress up or play tea party...
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Movie Review
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (PG-13, 2hr 18min)
Two words...Frickin' Awesome!!!
We were having a great time during the previews...we don't go to the movies often, and there are a lot of great kids' films coming out! We were also in a bit of a daze from our buttery popcorn and sugar drinks...
But from the minute the movie starts...it has you and keeps you until the end (except for a quick sprint to the bathroom...too much sugary drink). Overall, this movie is one of the best of the series and really focuses on Harry's emotional development. It is a really emotional film...I laughed, I cried (I actually was on the verge of tears several times and finally lost it in the end). Daniel Radcliffe really shines here and shows that he isn't just some kid actor that happen to get the role 7 years ago. And wow! has he gotten handsome! I was also happy to see some scenes that featured the Dursley's (a short one at that), Snape (one of my favorite characters), and Neville (who carries an understated importance throughout the books). However, the film did lack a bit of Ron, Hermoine, Hagrid, and Quidditch.
However, the really brillance of this film (in addition to Harry and his current mission to battle Voldemort)...is Imelda Staunton (aka Vera Drake) as Dolores Umbridge. She plays this sinister character with such a sweet malice that I would fear her more than Voldemort. She carries herself so perfectly in her wonderfully tailored pink frocks and charming smile. She is just so evil!!!
We also meet Luna Lovegood...and cute but weird younger student. Just going by the movie, I would say that something is up with her and Harry...maybe not necessary romantically but something. And she says something in the end that makes me extra-eager to read the last book...."Things that are lost have a way of coming back to you".
The film is visually amazing as well. The costumes are particularly interesting this time around. Just cleverly designed and executed. Sirius' clothes are wonderful. (Ok, can you tell I was raised by a costume designer) The kids' clothes...when not in uniform...are stylish yet give you a sense of the past and add nice splashes of color. The Death Eaters are fabulous....think Greek tragedy. The sets are similar, obviously, to previous movies. But the special effects are better here. The way the adult wizards and witches fly and fight in the final scenes is fantastic! I loved it!
Overall, I highly recommend it to anyone over 10yrs old (and more so to those who have seen or read the previous 4 installments). There is some violence, death, etc. so definitely not for the little ones. And my 10yo, although really enjoyed it, didn't get a lot of the humor or amazing emotional aspects.
I loved it so much...I might even see it again (which is a rarity for me...to see a movie in the theater twice).
Monday, July 09, 2007
I've got the fever!
Yes, we have it here....Harry Potter Fever!!
I thought since it had been awhile...it wouldn't be so strong....how wrong. I think because the movie and book are coming out at the same time....we can't help ourselves. I am trying to run through the older books...skimming 1-5, reading 6 again. Watching all the movies again. I just love this book series and so do so many others.
And we have plans.....pre-bought tickets to the movie for Wednesday. Pre-ordered book (months ago, but confirmed today). And we are going out next Friday! My daughter and I are going at least one of the many Harry Potter Parties around town...and staying out until we have that precious 7th installment in our hands. I figure this is possibly a once-in-a-lifetime event (although I would hope that this much excitement is generated over a book again).
*Note that if you haven't reserved a copy already, most places cannot guarantee a copy for next weekend.
Speaking of...
Here are some parties around town....
All the local libraries are having multiple events as well as most of the bookstores.
See the News-Gazette for listings plus.....
Barnes and Noble
July 14th--A Wizard Trivia Tournament
July 20th--starting at 9pm they will be handing out wristbands and numbers to those who reserved a copy. While we all wait until 12:01am, they will have a costume contest, face painting, games, etc.
Borders
July 20th--The Grand Hallows Ball starting at 930pm. They will have The Great Snape Debate, Spelling Bee, costume contest, Candy walk, Bertie Bott's tasting, fortune telling, Guess that Spell, etc.
I thought since it had been awhile...it wouldn't be so strong....how wrong. I think because the movie and book are coming out at the same time....we can't help ourselves. I am trying to run through the older books...skimming 1-5, reading 6 again. Watching all the movies again. I just love this book series and so do so many others.
And we have plans.....pre-bought tickets to the movie for Wednesday. Pre-ordered book (months ago, but confirmed today). And we are going out next Friday! My daughter and I are going at least one of the many Harry Potter Parties around town...and staying out until we have that precious 7th installment in our hands. I figure this is possibly a once-in-a-lifetime event (although I would hope that this much excitement is generated over a book again).
*Note that if you haven't reserved a copy already, most places cannot guarantee a copy for next weekend.
Speaking of...
Here are some parties around town....
All the local libraries are having multiple events as well as most of the bookstores.
See the News-Gazette for listings plus.....
Barnes and Noble
July 14th--A Wizard Trivia Tournament
July 20th--starting at 9pm they will be handing out wristbands and numbers to those who reserved a copy. While we all wait until 12:01am, they will have a costume contest, face painting, games, etc.
Borders
July 20th--The Grand Hallows Ball starting at 930pm. They will have The Great Snape Debate, Spelling Bee, costume contest, Candy walk, Bertie Bott's tasting, fortune telling, Guess that Spell, etc.
They will host a party from 11pm-2am including games, etc. and book release.
Thursday, July 05, 2007
Fire!!
I'm not sure if my almost 2yo should be chanting "Fire! Fire! Fire!" on our way to the fireworks last night....but he sure did love them. I have had some bad experiences with fireworks and kids (I remember having to run several blocks with my 3yo daughter one year as she screamed in fear!). But last year the kids loved them. And this year was no different. My 3yo has been talking about them for the past six months...and the parade. I was amazed that he fell asleep in the middle of the show! But there were lots of ooooo's and ahhhh's and boom's to be had by all.
But what I loved about the event...was that we all laid on a blanket in the grass draped over each other for 30 mins and watched with pleasure. This just doesn't happen normally...but maybe it should. Even when we have 'family movie night', we start out sitting together...although usually on separate couches. But by the end, my husband goes off to do something, I decide to make a phone call in the relative quiet, the baby decides to play blocks.... But I think we should make time to just lay out together and enjoy something...like each other!
I hope you all had a great 4th! (I personally had a stomach virus all day....I spent the day catching up on Next Food Network Star....but the family had a great time!
But what I loved about the event...was that we all laid on a blanket in the grass draped over each other for 30 mins and watched with pleasure. This just doesn't happen normally...but maybe it should. Even when we have 'family movie night', we start out sitting together...although usually on separate couches. But by the end, my husband goes off to do something, I decide to make a phone call in the relative quiet, the baby decides to play blocks.... But I think we should make time to just lay out together and enjoy something...like each other!
I hope you all had a great 4th! (I personally had a stomach virus all day....I spent the day catching up on Next Food Network Star....but the family had a great time!
Monday, July 02, 2007
Superman!
My formerly naked son...has now adopted a new outfit that is worn very frequently...he calls it his superman outfit (including nice green galoshes, a red and yellow cap (e.g. piece of fabric he found and tied around his neck), sunglasses or a mask he made at the library, and sometimes his purple sequin belt). He wore it to the grocery store last week and ran around looking for danger for us...how thoughtful. And then he wore it all day while we drove to a family reunion...and of cours, at the party as well.
I don't care one bit about this. He is happy...he is creative...it doesn't hurt anyone else. I really am more interested in the fact that he can select his own clothing and put it on independently.
Additionally, he has taken up photography. So, as he flies around as Superman...he takes photos with our digital camera. He has been interested in this for awhile but lately he has been getting very skilled. We used to have a slew of close-ups of the rug, chair, my butt. But now...he can focus, zoom, and give the subject direction (move over Dad, saw cheese). He has taken some lovely shots...one of the best of my husband and I in years!
Maybe his cape gives his super photographic powers!
I don't care one bit about this. He is happy...he is creative...it doesn't hurt anyone else. I really am more interested in the fact that he can select his own clothing and put it on independently.
Additionally, he has taken up photography. So, as he flies around as Superman...he takes photos with our digital camera. He has been interested in this for awhile but lately he has been getting very skilled. We used to have a slew of close-ups of the rug, chair, my butt. But now...he can focus, zoom, and give the subject direction (move over Dad, saw cheese). He has taken some lovely shots...one of the best of my husband and I in years!
Maybe his cape gives his super photographic powers!
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Changes in the Wind...
I know that I have been behind on my posts...but for good reason. Our family is undergoing a dramatic life change right now. After 6 years of working in an office (almost 5 of those trying to find a fire fighter job)...my husband finally needed to change his life. So he quit his job and became a full-time EMT. The job he had was his first 'real' job out of college and it was only supposed to get us through my grad school...but we ended us staying around for years and years. And he has been trying to find a fire fighter/EMT job that would attempt to support us for years but they are few and far between. But he needed a change...so we took the chance.
He went from working Monday through Friday, 9-5pm with a set salary and awesome benefits to working 3 overnight shifts a week on an hourly pay (but with full benefits). Essentially, it is a 50% pay cut! But...he worked it out with his old job that he can work part-time for them on an hourly basis...and he has another freelance job that he has been doing all along anyways. Oh...and I got a job as well (that's another post). So, we now have four income sources that we hope will equal, if not exceed, our previous income (please, please, please!).
So...our schedule is nuts! (Did I mention he is back in school a bit as well?) Adjusting will take some time...but I hope we do. And the anxiety over money is a bit stressful...but we hope we will adjust to that (I liked the one big paycheck each month). And hopefully it will only be this crazy for a year until he is a full paramedic and will starting looking for fire fighter/paramedic jobs once more.
But I tell you...it will be worth it. My husband, although he did like his job, was suffering. This was affecting everyone. He needed to do something he really enjoyed and wanted to do. So...being a little crazy for a short amount of time should give us some great long-term benefits.
Happy parents=happy family...I always say.
He went from working Monday through Friday, 9-5pm with a set salary and awesome benefits to working 3 overnight shifts a week on an hourly pay (but with full benefits). Essentially, it is a 50% pay cut! But...he worked it out with his old job that he can work part-time for them on an hourly basis...and he has another freelance job that he has been doing all along anyways. Oh...and I got a job as well (that's another post). So, we now have four income sources that we hope will equal, if not exceed, our previous income (please, please, please!).
So...our schedule is nuts! (Did I mention he is back in school a bit as well?) Adjusting will take some time...but I hope we do. And the anxiety over money is a bit stressful...but we hope we will adjust to that (I liked the one big paycheck each month). And hopefully it will only be this crazy for a year until he is a full paramedic and will starting looking for fire fighter/paramedic jobs once more.
But I tell you...it will be worth it. My husband, although he did like his job, was suffering. This was affecting everyone. He needed to do something he really enjoyed and wanted to do. So...being a little crazy for a short amount of time should give us some great long-term benefits.
Happy parents=happy family...I always say.
Friday, June 22, 2007
Ingredient of the month...
Instant Pudding!
Yes...not my usual ingredient but this is one of the processed/pre-made items I always have on hand. Always! It is inexpensive and can serve as a nutritious snack (add fruit or nuts!).
Yes, I do make pudding from scratch at times...but instant pudding is fabulous. We stick to the sugar free-fat free versions for a healthier treat. It is incredibly versatile. You can make anything...pudding (of course), triffles, cakes, pies, smoothies, popsicles, paint!
I love to use it in the summer especially since it takes no heat to make...plus it is done in 5 mins. The kids can make it themselves as well. My daughter loves to create new recipes using it...since she can do it without much supervision. It is also something that if the kids request it...it can appear almost instantly (we don't always have cookies, cakes, brownies, ice cream on hand).
Ideas....
Pies!Make or buy a cookie/graham cracker crust...fill with prepared pudding...top with Cool Whip...enjoy. Add, before the pudding, fruit...bananas are especially good. Or place whole cookies (oreos, nilla wafers, or nutter butters are good) in between layers. Top with nuts, sprinkles, or cookie crumbs. Chill for a couple hours. Or freeze for an icy treat!
Dirt and Worms!!
Top prepared pudding with crushed cookies and top with gummy worms!
Smoothies
Add pudding or jello mix, milk or juice, and fruit to a blender and mix until desired consistency.
Pudding Pops (where has Bill Cosby gone?!)
Fill popsicle molds or small cups with prepared pudding or jello and freeze until firm (at least 4 hours).
Paint!
Mix pudding mix with water until a finger paint consistency (or thinner for brush painting) and paint! Can do the same with Jello (or use unflavored gelatin and food coloring).
Check out Kraft Foods and Jello for more ideas (there are tons!)
Thursday, June 21, 2007
The mistakes of a busy parent
My oldest had a dentist appointment...where one goes, the rest will follow. The boys and I stayed in the waiting room while she got her cleaning and exam. Thankfully, the room was empty, so I let them run around and play (without damaging anything). When we first got there, I had to update her medical history, etc. So while I am filling the forms out, my 3yo asks to look at the Spiderman magazine he sees on the rack. I glance at it and hand it to him (with pen still moving on the paper). A couple minutes later, he comes over and shows me the magazine, telling me Spidey has a funny butt (a common discussion point these days)...then asks 'what is coming out of Spiderman's butt?' Even after looking at it for a minute, I didn't notice this until he asked. I simply replied they were spiderwebs and we should find another magazine. It was a Mad Magazine...and sure enough his webs were shotting out of his bum. I distracted him with a Highlights instead..that seemed to work. I can't imagine what the receptionist thought of our conversation.
Then we spent the rest of the 30 mins counting the beautifully mouthed people on the walls (how many boys, girls, adults, children), army-crawling under the coffeetable, looking at brochures for teeth whitening, going to the potty a couple times, selecting the perfect sticker. Note that nothing I had brought in the diaper bag remotely entertained them.
Fun, fun!
Then we spent the rest of the 30 mins counting the beautifully mouthed people on the walls (how many boys, girls, adults, children), army-crawling under the coffeetable, looking at brochures for teeth whitening, going to the potty a couple times, selecting the perfect sticker. Note that nothing I had brought in the diaper bag remotely entertained them.
Fun, fun!
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Nudist Colony
I have to admit to you all...I live in a nudist household. On most days, at most times, at least one person in the house is naked..or close to it. In particular, the boys are nudies! It all started when my 3yo was potty training and we used the naked method. Since then, throughout the day, he slowly takes off more and more clothes. By bed time, he is definitely nude. With the weather, we are fine with him sleeping in just a diaper. Our youngest has taken it on as well. He pulls and tugs at his clothing....takes his diaper off at all costs (through the onesie!). We honestly don't really even notice it anymore.
Since it is so hot...it is common to have people in their bathing suits, undies and a tank top, or just undies for the boys.
We have instituted some rules...you must wear clothes when non-family members are over (as my 3yo says, 'people don't want to see me naked'). You must wear clothes outside (for the most part). And no naked butts on the table!
Is it really a big deal? Not for us. They wear clothes when it is appropriate and they don't wear them when it is safe and comfortable.
But do take this as a warning to any of our house guests!
Friday, June 15, 2007
100!!!
This is my 100th post on A Mom for All Seasons!
Thanks for reading! Please come back again and again!
Happy Father's Day to all you fathers out there!
Have a fabulous day celebrating fatherhood!
Let us know what you did to celebrate!!
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Grannies!
My grandma came to visit last week...it was so nice. She has so many 'Polish grandma-isms' that you just have to love her!
First of all...they (my dad and her) were supposed to be here at noon (this was confirmed more than once). So, I planned my morning accordingly, including an appointment until 11am. Then I call my dad to say good morning at 9am, and they are an hour away! I had to say too bad and the door will be open but we won't be home until 1115am.
Now I should have known...this is the lady who tells us Easter dinner is at 11am (why not call it brunch?). And we are late if we arrive anytime after five minutes before we said we would be there.
But all was forgiven when my grandma brought me a batch of cabbage rolls and some kolockies (which she made at 530 that morning!).
We had a very nice visit...going out to lunch, having a pizza party, heading out to Prairie Farms, playing the in backyard. But the best part was simply hanging with my grannie. Telling me all about her work (she will never retire), what books she has been reading, all about her bad eyes, the family. And when she left, I had this plate of half-gone kolockies...and the house still smelled like her (in a good way...no bad old people smell). I just love her!
And I am definitely off the Shit List! What's that? Well, if you do anything to anger my gram you are quickly moved to the Shit List (the SL, as we refer to it). She created this. If you don't communicate with her for a certain period (determined by her). If you don't visit when you are within 100 miles of her house. If you don't keep her up-to-date on your lives. If you don't send her updated photos of yourself and your children. If you don't give her a kiss and hug hello/good-bye (my 3yo is on the SL for that). My brother will continue to stay away because he is scared at how deep he is on the SL. The good news is that getting off the SL is quick and relatively painless...just give her a call or stop in for a visit. She just wants to be loved! And I am happy to indulge her!
So...here is her recipe for Kolockies (Eastern European cookies)
although I will probably be on the SL for sharing this with non-Polish/non-family members!
2 sticks of oleo, softened (what she calls margarine...but I use butter)
8oz cream cheese, softened
2 cups flour
1/2 tsp vanilla
fillings (we use canned or jarred pie fillings...our favorite is apricot but raspberry is great...or even sweetened cream cheese)
Cream oleo and cream cheese. Add vanilla and flour. Work until it becomes a nice dough. Turn out onto surface and roll until about 1/8 in thick. Cut into 1-2in squares. Add a small amount of filling to each square. Pinch two opposing corners together. Place on baking sheet. Bake 20-25 mins on 350F. Remove from oven. Sprinkle liberally with powdered sugar.
First of all...they (my dad and her) were supposed to be here at noon (this was confirmed more than once). So, I planned my morning accordingly, including an appointment until 11am. Then I call my dad to say good morning at 9am, and they are an hour away! I had to say too bad and the door will be open but we won't be home until 1115am.
Now I should have known...this is the lady who tells us Easter dinner is at 11am (why not call it brunch?). And we are late if we arrive anytime after five minutes before we said we would be there.
But all was forgiven when my grandma brought me a batch of cabbage rolls and some kolockies (which she made at 530 that morning!).
We had a very nice visit...going out to lunch, having a pizza party, heading out to Prairie Farms, playing the in backyard. But the best part was simply hanging with my grannie. Telling me all about her work (she will never retire), what books she has been reading, all about her bad eyes, the family. And when she left, I had this plate of half-gone kolockies...and the house still smelled like her (in a good way...no bad old people smell). I just love her!
And I am definitely off the Shit List! What's that? Well, if you do anything to anger my gram you are quickly moved to the Shit List (the SL, as we refer to it). She created this. If you don't communicate with her for a certain period (determined by her). If you don't visit when you are within 100 miles of her house. If you don't keep her up-to-date on your lives. If you don't send her updated photos of yourself and your children. If you don't give her a kiss and hug hello/good-bye (my 3yo is on the SL for that). My brother will continue to stay away because he is scared at how deep he is on the SL. The good news is that getting off the SL is quick and relatively painless...just give her a call or stop in for a visit. She just wants to be loved! And I am happy to indulge her!
So...here is her recipe for Kolockies (Eastern European cookies)
although I will probably be on the SL for sharing this with non-Polish/non-family members!
2 sticks of oleo, softened (what she calls margarine...but I use butter)
8oz cream cheese, softened
2 cups flour
1/2 tsp vanilla
fillings (we use canned or jarred pie fillings...our favorite is apricot but raspberry is great...or even sweetened cream cheese)
Cream oleo and cream cheese. Add vanilla and flour. Work until it becomes a nice dough. Turn out onto surface and roll until about 1/8 in thick. Cut into 1-2in squares. Add a small amount of filling to each square. Pinch two opposing corners together. Place on baking sheet. Bake 20-25 mins on 350F. Remove from oven. Sprinkle liberally with powdered sugar.
Sunday, June 10, 2007
School's out for the summer...
I love my kids...I really do. I even really like spending time with my kids, one reason I decided to stay home with them full-time.
But, adjusting to the summer routine is challenging. This past week, having everyone home all the time has been interesting for us all. Not only is everyone home without a definate schedule, they are spending more time with each other than ever before. There have been lots of good points...playing together, sharing, creating projects together, getting into trouble....but there has also been a lot of fighting, screaming, hitting. They just have to spend some time and effort working out living together.
And they eat so much!! During the school year, my daugther eats two meals and a snack at school and my 3yo eats a snack at school and then takes a nap at home. During the summer, I have to provide all those meals and snacks!* They are like bottom-less pits! We have to really watch the snacking (my 3yo has found ways to get into all the food in the house...I need new hiding places!) so they eat some decent meals.
So, we are finding our way into a schedule (regular trips to the gym, library, pools, and parks). We just can't afford camps or any other regular programs (although my daughter is in the children's theater production). We are cooking together to make healthy snacks. We are instilling a strict rest time each day for everyone (in separate rooms).
So...parenting is always challenging! and something is always keeping you on your toes...let's just wait to see what happens when my husband changes jobs next week!
But, adjusting to the summer routine is challenging. This past week, having everyone home all the time has been interesting for us all. Not only is everyone home without a definate schedule, they are spending more time with each other than ever before. There have been lots of good points...playing together, sharing, creating projects together, getting into trouble....but there has also been a lot of fighting, screaming, hitting. They just have to spend some time and effort working out living together.
And they eat so much!! During the school year, my daugther eats two meals and a snack at school and my 3yo eats a snack at school and then takes a nap at home. During the summer, I have to provide all those meals and snacks!* They are like bottom-less pits! We have to really watch the snacking (my 3yo has found ways to get into all the food in the house...I need new hiding places!) so they eat some decent meals.
So, we are finding our way into a schedule (regular trips to the gym, library, pools, and parks). We just can't afford camps or any other regular programs (although my daughter is in the children's theater production). We are cooking together to make healthy snacks. We are instilling a strict rest time each day for everyone (in separate rooms).
So...parenting is always challenging! and something is always keeping you on your toes...let's just wait to see what happens when my husband changes jobs next week!
*In Champaign-Urbana, the school district offers free breakfast and lunch to any child between 1-18years old at Stratton Elementary (breakfast 730-9am; lunch 1130-1245pm) and Garden Hill (breakfast 8-9am, lunch 1130-1245pm).
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Granola!!
We love our granola here!
We eat it with yogurt or milk....make it into muffins...and love granola bars!
But man, it is expensive to purchase. So, I make it myself. It is SO much cheaper than way, plus you can control the flavors.
Here are my favorite recipes (created by combining my favorite recipes)
Granola
4 cups old-fashioned oats
2 cups rice krispies
2 cups nuts (best if they are not toasted)
1 1/2 cup dried fruit
1/2 cup oil
1/3 cup honey
2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp vanilla
Mix oats, cereal, and nuts in a large bowl. In small bowl, mix oil, honey, and vanilla. Pour oil mixture over oats and combine until well-coated. Add cinnamon and mix again. Pour onto large baking sheet and smooth into even layer. Bake 25-30 mins (or until golden brown) at 350 F, stirring every 5-10 mins. Remove from oven and add fruit. Allow to cool completely. Store in air-tight container.
Granola Bars (these taste like Luna Bars Nutz over Chocolate)
1 cup corn syrup
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup peanut butter (I use natural, chunky)
4 cups rice krispies
2 cups oatmeal
1/2 cup finely chopped nuts
12 oz chocolate chips, melted (optional)
In a large pot, heat corn syrup and sugar until simmering. Stir in peanut butter. Remove from heat. Add cereal, oatmeal, and nuts. Mix until well-combined. Press into 9x13 pan (press hard!). Spread melted chocolate on top. Allow to cool completely. Slice into bar-sized pieces. Store in air-tight container.
**These are methods...so mix up the ingredients as you like (use different cereals, nuts, fruits, candies, spices, add ground flax seed or wheat germ).
We eat it with yogurt or milk....make it into muffins...and love granola bars!
But man, it is expensive to purchase. So, I make it myself. It is SO much cheaper than way, plus you can control the flavors.
Here are my favorite recipes (created by combining my favorite recipes)
Granola
4 cups old-fashioned oats
2 cups rice krispies
2 cups nuts (best if they are not toasted)
1 1/2 cup dried fruit
1/2 cup oil
1/3 cup honey
2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp vanilla
Mix oats, cereal, and nuts in a large bowl. In small bowl, mix oil, honey, and vanilla. Pour oil mixture over oats and combine until well-coated. Add cinnamon and mix again. Pour onto large baking sheet and smooth into even layer. Bake 25-30 mins (or until golden brown) at 350 F, stirring every 5-10 mins. Remove from oven and add fruit. Allow to cool completely. Store in air-tight container.
Granola Bars (these taste like Luna Bars Nutz over Chocolate)
1 cup corn syrup
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup peanut butter (I use natural, chunky)
4 cups rice krispies
2 cups oatmeal
1/2 cup finely chopped nuts
12 oz chocolate chips, melted (optional)
In a large pot, heat corn syrup and sugar until simmering. Stir in peanut butter. Remove from heat. Add cereal, oatmeal, and nuts. Mix until well-combined. Press into 9x13 pan (press hard!). Spread melted chocolate on top. Allow to cool completely. Slice into bar-sized pieces. Store in air-tight container.
**These are methods...so mix up the ingredients as you like (use different cereals, nuts, fruits, candies, spices, add ground flax seed or wheat germ).
Saturday, June 02, 2007
Pool Time!
So, we finally made it to the pool today. It was a fun time. It was hot today, about 85 F and humid but it wasn't crazy hot like it is in July so at times it was actually a bit cool. Our littlest one was shivering a bit, coming in and out of the water.
We went to our local public pool, Sholem Aquatic Park. It has a baby pool (which isn't open right now), a zero-depth or beach-like pool, a lazy river, and a couple water slides. I really like the zero-depth pool because all the kids can be in the same pool (normally the baby pool is restricted to those 0-4yrs old, meaning my older child can't be in there but the big pool is too deep to bring the little ones). At Sholem, they also have some fun activities like a slide, water spouts, a dumping contraption in the shallow end. The kids loved it. We all really enjoyed the lazy river (called The Rapids at Sholem). The boys thought it was a really fun ride. Our 10yo really loved the bigger waterslide.
At Sholem, there are really nice grassy areas to sit and have a snack, sunbathe, or just hang out. The concession area is nice, covered, and clean. The snacks, although we brought our own, are reasonably priced (including popcorn, ice cream, soft pretzels, hot dogs, pizza, french fries). Note to parents...swim diapers are required for little ones, but if you forget, you can purchase them for $1.
Overall, Sholem is a really nice place to spend a couple hours with the family or even on a date with your special someone. They are open until 8pm and offer a couple movie nights.
We purchased a season pass (getting the early-bird discount in April). I figured out that we need to go 7 times in order to break even. Kids 3 and younger are free, so we could get away with a family pass for 3. Additionally, we can go to Spalding Pool, which is actually a couple blocks from the house. So, its a good deal...and it allows us to bop over to the pool for just an hour or leaving when the kids are throwing tantrums after we just got there...and not feel bad about spending a lot of money.
So, check out your local pool...through the park district or YMCA. Or, if you are lucky enough, get to the beach!
Enjoy! Be safe!
We went to our local public pool, Sholem Aquatic Park. It has a baby pool (which isn't open right now), a zero-depth or beach-like pool, a lazy river, and a couple water slides. I really like the zero-depth pool because all the kids can be in the same pool (normally the baby pool is restricted to those 0-4yrs old, meaning my older child can't be in there but the big pool is too deep to bring the little ones). At Sholem, they also have some fun activities like a slide, water spouts, a dumping contraption in the shallow end. The kids loved it. We all really enjoyed the lazy river (called The Rapids at Sholem). The boys thought it was a really fun ride. Our 10yo really loved the bigger waterslide.
At Sholem, there are really nice grassy areas to sit and have a snack, sunbathe, or just hang out. The concession area is nice, covered, and clean. The snacks, although we brought our own, are reasonably priced (including popcorn, ice cream, soft pretzels, hot dogs, pizza, french fries). Note to parents...swim diapers are required for little ones, but if you forget, you can purchase them for $1.
Overall, Sholem is a really nice place to spend a couple hours with the family or even on a date with your special someone. They are open until 8pm and offer a couple movie nights.
We purchased a season pass (getting the early-bird discount in April). I figured out that we need to go 7 times in order to break even. Kids 3 and younger are free, so we could get away with a family pass for 3. Additionally, we can go to Spalding Pool, which is actually a couple blocks from the house. So, its a good deal...and it allows us to bop over to the pool for just an hour or leaving when the kids are throwing tantrums after we just got there...and not feel bad about spending a lot of money.
So, check out your local pool...through the park district or YMCA. Or, if you are lucky enough, get to the beach!
Enjoy! Be safe!
Friday, June 01, 2007
Summer Reading!!
First of all, let me give a big thank you to the Champaign Library's Janice Harrington!
She is a fabulous children's author and children's librarian. Unfortunately, she is leaving the library to move on to other things (teaching at the University). We were fortunate enough to participate in her last storytime on Wednesday. She is just the best, and we will miss her! Thanks for all your hard work and dedication!
Now...let's make a committment to read this summer!
If you have been reading my blog for a bit, it is obvious that we love to read here. And summer is a great time to really get into it as a family. For school-age kids, summer can be a big time for losing reading skills (up to a grade-level), so it is important to keep things going over the summer so the fall can start off right!
Our daughter's school is doing a great thing this summer. Each family is given a reading journal, a reading log, and three books to read together. The family is encouraged to read books together and talk about them as well as journal. For every book read or month of a completed reading log, the kids will get a raffle ticket for a new bike!
We also participate in the library's reading programs for all of our kids, and me too! The best part of the library program is that they provide you with a reading journal for each child. My 10yo completes hers on her own...writing down the books she reads and what she likes about them. My 3yo likes to draw or talk about his books (as I write down the titles and his dictations). My 1yo simply gets to draw and keep a tally of his books.
My goal for the little ones is 100 books read to them (not including repeats).
My goal for the 10yo is 12 chapter books in addition to reading to her brothers.
My goal is to read 12 books as well, in addition to reading for and with the kids.
We also sometimes will have a family reading night...over dinner we talk about what each of us is reading that week (whether it be a book, magazine, newspaper, textbook).
Summer time is a great time to pick up a series. I challenge myself to read all of the series as fast as I can (I just started to re-read Harry Potter).
I really like murder/crime mysteries. Here are some suggestions:
Sue Grafton's Alphabet Series
Kate White's Bailey Weggin's Series
James Patterson's Women's Murder Club Series
Robert Parker's Sunny Randall or Jesse Stone Series
Carl Hiaasen's books
If you haven't read Harry Potter...get to it! The last one comes out July 21st!
If you liked Harry Potter....try Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials (The Golden Compass, The Subtle Knife, The Amber Spyglass).
Remember to read together! And if a child sees how much you value reading...then they will want to do it too!
Have a great reading summer!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)