Hubby's aunt has terminal cancer. Right now she's in a nursing home under palative care. She's uncomfortable and unhappy. The family is talking about trying to get her home and then taking shifts to care for her. Hopefully, we can get that arranged soon.
Please keep my family in your prayers.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Lesson Learned in Hershey
We took the kids to Hershey Park for their Halloween event (there's no trick-or-treating here in our rural neighborhood). I learned a lesson: My 3-year-old won't make it very far on her own legs if we have to hoof it.
Before we were halfway through the trick-or-treating event, she was tired and asking to be carried.
If I ever get stranded and have to walk home with both the kids, it's going to be slow progress.
My current plan is to strap the baby to my back in a carrier, carabiner pouches/bags with necessities, and push my 3-year-old in the stroller. Rough terrain would make this plan difficult, if not impossible.
Obviously, I need a new plan.
Before we were halfway through the trick-or-treating event, she was tired and asking to be carried.
If I ever get stranded and have to walk home with both the kids, it's going to be slow progress.
My current plan is to strap the baby to my back in a carrier, carabiner pouches/bags with necessities, and push my 3-year-old in the stroller. Rough terrain would make this plan difficult, if not impossible.
Obviously, I need a new plan.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Random Prepping Thoughts
I've had a few random prepping thoughts lately.
- Free samples. I get a ton of these, mostly freebies with purchase. They are usually things I don't want or need, like a new brand of hand lotion or a tea bag. I've started keeping them all in a "barter" box. The small sizes will make them ideal for bartering, trade or charity when/if shit+fan happens.
- Old clothing. Hubby has a tendency to toss his old clothes in the trash, even if they're stained or have just one small hole. I told him to start hanging onto those things for me to save in a bin. Who knows? Maybe some day clothing will be hard to come by.
- Writing instruments. We have a shitload of ball point pens, but they will dry up over time. Other types of writing instruments might be useful to have on hand, like pencils and crayons. Next time I'm at the discount store, I think I'm going to buy a box of pencils.
- Practice. I spend a lot of time screwing around all day. I need to practice, practice, practice some skills.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Torn Between Two Worlds
On one hand, the survivalist community says "Focus on your preps! Buy earth tone clothing! Stop spending money on unnecessary luxuries that you won't be able to use in the future!"
And, of course, that's sound advice.
On the other hand, I like to buy clothing that fits and flatters me (although I'm no fashion plate), but isn't necessarily comfortable or the best for shit+fan work (knee-high boots with 3-inch heels won't be much good for gardening). I enjoy keeping my cell phone updated with the latest technology (it's my phone, my email, my calendar, my scheduler... my whole life). I frequently spend money on things that simply make my life easier, like a fabulous diaper bag or an organizer jewelry box. My expensive haircuts make me feel beautiful, my pricey face moisturizer feels awesome on my skin, and my costly hair conditioner smells wonderful (but I wear drugstore lipstick!).
Do I sacrifice the things that make me feel good now simply to add a few more canned soups to my larder? Or do I continue to enjoy the (small) luxuries in my life?
I admit that I often think that for the cost of my haircut (with tip), I could buy 120 cans of vegetables. It gives me pause each and every time. (I would like to note, however, that I get my hair cut about twice a year.)
I guess the important thing is to strike a balance. I can't (and won't) give up my whole life and my little pleasures simply because it might be needed in the future. I won't start wearing olive green merely because one day it can easily be camouflage. (Because of my skin tone, I look sick in green.) But maybe, every once in a while, I can skip that fabulous diaper bag and instead buy some powdered milk.
And, of course, that's sound advice.
On the other hand, I like to buy clothing that fits and flatters me (although I'm no fashion plate), but isn't necessarily comfortable or the best for shit+fan work (knee-high boots with 3-inch heels won't be much good for gardening). I enjoy keeping my cell phone updated with the latest technology (it's my phone, my email, my calendar, my scheduler... my whole life). I frequently spend money on things that simply make my life easier, like a fabulous diaper bag or an organizer jewelry box. My expensive haircuts make me feel beautiful, my pricey face moisturizer feels awesome on my skin, and my costly hair conditioner smells wonderful (but I wear drugstore lipstick!).
Do I sacrifice the things that make me feel good now simply to add a few more canned soups to my larder? Or do I continue to enjoy the (small) luxuries in my life?
I admit that I often think that for the cost of my haircut (with tip), I could buy 120 cans of vegetables. It gives me pause each and every time. (I would like to note, however, that I get my hair cut about twice a year.)
I guess the important thing is to strike a balance. I can't (and won't) give up my whole life and my little pleasures simply because it might be needed in the future. I won't start wearing olive green merely because one day it can easily be camouflage. (Because of my skin tone, I look sick in green.) But maybe, every once in a while, I can skip that fabulous diaper bag and instead buy some powdered milk.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Gearing Up For Christmas
Around this time of year I start seriously thinking about Christmas. I like to have my shopping done early, since I hate battling crowds. (Although, in truth, I do most of my shopping online.)
The kids are easy, since we only get them a couple of toys/books each. I see no point in flooding them with consumerism before they even understand the word "advertisement."
Last year I gave some family members a stripped-down Get Home Bag for Christmas. (I say "stripped-down," because it was just the basics: food, water, crank flashlight, matches, etc.) Although polite appreciation was expressed, I'm not sure people really understood that I was trying to say "I love you and I want you to survive."
This year most of the families on my list will get a small basket of eggs from my chickens. I think most everyone else will get consumables of some kind, be it food or gift cards.
Hubby's family is much more extended than my own, and the adults draw names. On the slip of paper where we write our name, we usually include a few gift suggestions. On my "wish list," I plan to write:
But my reasoning is this: Although Hubby and I already own a few tarps (not enough, could definitely use more), an axe and a shovel, most of our basic tools are cheapo made-in-China crap that they sell at chain hardware stores. Some day we'd like to invest in some good quality, USA made tools. But until that time, we're stuck with foreign madetoys tools. When shit+fan happens, those cheapo tools will last us a few seasons at most. Then they'll start breaking. So having a few backups - even cheap backups - would be nice.
I'd love to put "case of canned food" or "25 lb bag of rice" on my wish list, but Hubby's family already thinks I'm crazy. Something like that would probably mark me forever as the family nutcase.
The kids are easy, since we only get them a couple of toys/books each. I see no point in flooding them with consumerism before they even understand the word "advertisement."
Last year I gave some family members a stripped-down Get Home Bag for Christmas. (I say "stripped-down," because it was just the basics: food, water, crank flashlight, matches, etc.) Although polite appreciation was expressed, I'm not sure people really understood that I was trying to say "I love you and I want you to survive."
This year most of the families on my list will get a small basket of eggs from my chickens. I think most everyone else will get consumables of some kind, be it food or gift cards.
Hubby's family is much more extended than my own, and the adults draw names. On the slip of paper where we write our name, we usually include a few gift suggestions. On my "wish list," I plan to write:
- Axe
- Tarp
- Dirt Shovel
But my reasoning is this: Although Hubby and I already own a few tarps (not enough, could definitely use more), an axe and a shovel, most of our basic tools are cheapo made-in-China crap that they sell at chain hardware stores. Some day we'd like to invest in some good quality, USA made tools. But until that time, we're stuck with foreign made
I'd love to put "case of canned food" or "25 lb bag of rice" on my wish list, but Hubby's family already thinks I'm crazy. Something like that would probably mark me forever as the family nutcase.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Time To Roto-Rooter The Arteries
As I've mentioned earlier, my diet is the type that would make a nutritionist cringe. And though I've dropped the baby weight and returned to my previous size, I can't help feeling that chicken gravy probably shouldn't accompany every single one of my meals.
So, as I sit here with this morning's breakfast of cold pizza in my tummy, I've decided it's time to make a change. It's time to clean out the ol' arteries.
Nothing too drastic, of course. I'm not going to completely eschew chicken and dumplings, spaghetti, or cheeseburgers and fries. I'm not crazy, for Pete's sake.
But I think I might try to eat a few more veggies, a little less gravy, and a lot less processed foods.
In addition, I have set an app on my phone that sends me reminders to exercise. (I've done this in the past, but never successfully stuck with it.) Every hour between 9AM-4PM during weekdays, I'll get a reminder that tells me to do pushups or crunches or squats or mountain climbers or whatever the exercise is planned for that day/hour. Mondays and Wednesdays are upper body days, Tuesdays and Fridays are lower body days, and Thursdays are for ab work. If that's the only type of exercise I can squeeze into my Mom Schedule, at least it's better than nothing.
Besides, body weight exercises can really sculpt a fantastic body. And if you don't think so, just check out the Adonis who wrote You Are Your Own Gym: The Bible of Bodyweight Exercises
. Smokin'.
So, as I sit here with this morning's breakfast of cold pizza in my tummy, I've decided it's time to make a change. It's time to clean out the ol' arteries.
Nothing too drastic, of course. I'm not going to completely eschew chicken and dumplings, spaghetti, or cheeseburgers and fries. I'm not crazy, for Pete's sake.
But I think I might try to eat a few more veggies, a little less gravy, and a lot less processed foods.
In addition, I have set an app on my phone that sends me reminders to exercise. (I've done this in the past, but never successfully stuck with it.) Every hour between 9AM-4PM during weekdays, I'll get a reminder that tells me to do pushups or crunches or squats or mountain climbers or whatever the exercise is planned for that day/hour. Mondays and Wednesdays are upper body days, Tuesdays and Fridays are lower body days, and Thursdays are for ab work. If that's the only type of exercise I can squeeze into my Mom Schedule, at least it's better than nothing.
Besides, body weight exercises can really sculpt a fantastic body. And if you don't think so, just check out the Adonis who wrote You Are Your Own Gym: The Bible of Bodyweight Exercises
. Smokin'.
Friday, October 21, 2011
What To Do With Excess Eggs?
Back when I was on a pretty strict vegetarian diet, I ate a lot of egg whites - mostly hard-boiled and scrambled. I went through about 3 dozen eggs a week. So I figured I wouldn't have a problem handling the 2 dozen eggs my chickens are producing every week.
Surprise. I was wrong. (And one of my hens isn't even laying yet!).
I often give away a little basket of fresh eggs as a hostess gift, but it's not like I'm going to dinner parties every weekend.
Other than that, we eat egg salad fairly often (about 2 or 3 times a week). We eat them for breakfast sometimes (about twice a week). Every once in a while I make a quiche. And I use them when I bake.
But I still find myself with a surplus of eggs... usually an extra dozen in the fridge. Any suggestions for using them up?
(Full disclosure: I freakin' love deviled eggs, and make those about once a week, too. Sure, they're artery clogging bits of goodness. But I justify it by saying that the eggs must get used...)
Surprise. I was wrong. (And one of my hens isn't even laying yet!).
I often give away a little basket of fresh eggs as a hostess gift, but it's not like I'm going to dinner parties every weekend.
Other than that, we eat egg salad fairly often (about 2 or 3 times a week). We eat them for breakfast sometimes (about twice a week). Every once in a while I make a quiche. And I use them when I bake.
But I still find myself with a surplus of eggs... usually an extra dozen in the fridge. Any suggestions for using them up?
(Full disclosure: I freakin' love deviled eggs, and make those about once a week, too. Sure, they're artery clogging bits of goodness. But I justify it by saying that the eggs must get used...)
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Why I Don't Read "Survival" Books
Fictional books about surviving disaster - like Lights Out and One Second After - are common reading among preppers. Sometimes they serve as inspiration, sometimes they're information, and other times they're simply entertainment.
I am a voracious reader. I read almost anything and everything. I also read very quickly. Before children, I averaged one book per day. Now that I have kids, my time is more limited. I still probably average 2-3 books per week, which isn't bad for a busy mom.
But I never, ever, ever read survival fiction.
If a book is good - and sometimes, even if it's bad - it has a way of affecting me. For example, I started getting really paranoid about home invasions and personal assaults after I read way too many "serial killer" type thrillers. I tend to personalize books.
So the last thing I want to do is increase my prepper paranoia by reading some survival fiction. Hubby will have me committed if I start wrapping things in aluminum foil in preparation for an EMP attack. He barely tolerates it when I buy yet another can of Campbell's Chunky soup.
I am a voracious reader. I read almost anything and everything. I also read very quickly. Before children, I averaged one book per day. Now that I have kids, my time is more limited. I still probably average 2-3 books per week, which isn't bad for a busy mom.
But I never, ever, ever read survival fiction.
If a book is good - and sometimes, even if it's bad - it has a way of affecting me. For example, I started getting really paranoid about home invasions and personal assaults after I read way too many "serial killer" type thrillers. I tend to personalize books.
So the last thing I want to do is increase my prepper paranoia by reading some survival fiction. Hubby will have me committed if I start wrapping things in aluminum foil in preparation for an EMP attack. He barely tolerates it when I buy yet another can of Campbell's Chunky soup.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Obsessions
I tend to approach everything in my life with short-lived obsessive tendencies.
Take the chickens, for example. I read everything I could - books, websites, blogs - about raising chickens. I analyzed coops, breeds and run designs. I learned about their health, their habits and their predators. Then I got my chickens. I cared for them lovingly, grew my chicks to adulthood, and sent them out into their "big girl" coop. Now, months later, my obsession has died. I feed and water them regularly, and clean their coop when it needs it. They get treats and time to roam the neighboring farm, because I want them to be health and happy, but I no longer obsess. Now, they're just animals/pets in my backyard.
Or consider my home security. A short while I ago I had a brief obsession about it, which lead to extensive research about exterior door locks and unbreakable window film. Since we have a limited budget, I went with a couple of locks and a wireless driveway alert chime. Now that everything is in place, I've stopped reading about home security (for now).
I did the same thing when looking for the "perfect" homemade bread recipe. I read recipe after recipe, analyzing the ingredients and the process involved. I tried numerous recipes, experimented with white flour/whole wheat flour ratios, and baked, baked, baked. Now that I found the recipe that works for me, I have absolutely no interest in bread recipes.
I've had other short-lived obsessions, too: studying to be a holistic health practitioner, decorating my home, knitting, soap making, exercising, veganism, couponing... the list goes on and on.
Maybe it's part of my personality to have these intense interests that fade over time. Or maybe I just haven't yet found that one hobby or project that will become a lifetime obsession.
Take the chickens, for example. I read everything I could - books, websites, blogs - about raising chickens. I analyzed coops, breeds and run designs. I learned about their health, their habits and their predators. Then I got my chickens. I cared for them lovingly, grew my chicks to adulthood, and sent them out into their "big girl" coop. Now, months later, my obsession has died. I feed and water them regularly, and clean their coop when it needs it. They get treats and time to roam the neighboring farm, because I want them to be health and happy, but I no longer obsess. Now, they're just animals/pets in my backyard.
Or consider my home security. A short while I ago I had a brief obsession about it, which lead to extensive research about exterior door locks and unbreakable window film. Since we have a limited budget, I went with a couple of locks and a wireless driveway alert chime. Now that everything is in place, I've stopped reading about home security (for now).
I did the same thing when looking for the "perfect" homemade bread recipe. I read recipe after recipe, analyzing the ingredients and the process involved. I tried numerous recipes, experimented with white flour/whole wheat flour ratios, and baked, baked, baked. Now that I found the recipe that works for me, I have absolutely no interest in bread recipes.
I've had other short-lived obsessions, too: studying to be a holistic health practitioner, decorating my home, knitting, soap making, exercising, veganism, couponing... the list goes on and on.
Maybe it's part of my personality to have these intense interests that fade over time. Or maybe I just haven't yet found that one hobby or project that will become a lifetime obsession.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
And I Thought Summer Was Busy...
Turns out, my autumn/winter seasons are much busier.
We've got a dinner party with friends, Halloween in Hershey, my little one's first birthday, an overnight party with friends, Thanksgiving, professional family portraits, Hubby's work Christmas party, Christmas, and New Year's already on the schedule for the rest of the year. (And, of course, these events are always on Saturday. I have almost no free Saturdays until 2012.)
And I'm certain additional social obligations will pop up between now and December 31.
I like being busy. It keeps me active and engaged, and also motivates me to stay organized.
But sometimes I miss the down time...
We've got a dinner party with friends, Halloween in Hershey, my little one's first birthday, an overnight party with friends, Thanksgiving, professional family portraits, Hubby's work Christmas party, Christmas, and New Year's already on the schedule for the rest of the year. (And, of course, these events are always on Saturday. I have almost no free Saturdays until 2012.)
And I'm certain additional social obligations will pop up between now and December 31.
I like being busy. It keeps me active and engaged, and also motivates me to stay organized.
But sometimes I miss the down time...
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Another Way To Use Dry Milk
As I've mentioned before, I like to have dry milk in storage for potential shit+fan scenarios. My kids like milk, and it's useful for baking. But I don't use it or drink it on a regular basis, and its short shelf life means it often goes to waste.
I have another food problem, too. After a few cocktails, Hubby and I don't like to go through the trouble of making an extensive meal. We solve this problem by often baking a roast chicken (easy to pop in the oven before we have our first drink), or relying on the ground beef that's always in our freezer for quickie meals like tacos, or making casseroles ahead of time that can cook while we enjoy our beverages.
But I'm kinda getting tired of tacos and casseroles.
When I stumbled upon this mock Hamburger Helper Mix recipe, I was ecstatic. I don't eat Hamburger Helper (too many preservatives, plus Hubby hates it). But the idea of a quick skillet meal made from a meat that we almost always have on hand was too good to pass up. Bonus: the recipe uses dry milk! So I tried it today, with a few modifications.
The result: Not bad. Definitely edible, and even better with the addition of cheese. I served it to P for lunch today, and she pronounced, "Good, Mama! You're a good cook." My heart cockles were warmed.
So if anyone would like to try it, here it is:
I have another food problem, too. After a few cocktails, Hubby and I don't like to go through the trouble of making an extensive meal. We solve this problem by often baking a roast chicken (easy to pop in the oven before we have our first drink), or relying on the ground beef that's always in our freezer for quickie meals like tacos, or making casseroles ahead of time that can cook while we enjoy our beverages.
But I'm kinda getting tired of tacos and casseroles.
When I stumbled upon this mock Hamburger Helper Mix recipe, I was ecstatic. I don't eat Hamburger Helper (too many preservatives, plus Hubby hates it). But the idea of a quick skillet meal made from a meat that we almost always have on hand was too good to pass up. Bonus: the recipe uses dry milk! So I tried it today, with a few modifications.
The result: Not bad. Definitely edible, and even better with the addition of cheese. I served it to P for lunch today, and she pronounced, "Good, Mama! You're a good cook." My heart cockles were warmed.
So if anyone would like to try it, here it is:
Mock Hamburger Helper Mix
1 1/4 t black pepper
1 T garlic powder
2 T dried parsley
1/3 c dried minced onion
3 T onion powder
1 T salt (I think it needs a little more)
1 2/3 c dry milk (I used instant dry milk)
Mix and store in an airtight container. Would probably keep longer in the fridge. Note: The original mix recipe called for the addition of 3 1/2 T beef bouillon. I skipped this (because of the preservatives) and instead made the recipe with beef broth instead of water.
To Use Mix...
Brown and drain ground beef. (I used a full pound, and thought it was just barely enough. But if you're stretching your budget, you could use less.) Stir 1/2 cup of the Mock Hamburger Helper Mix into the meat. Add 2 1/4 cups beef broth (or just water if your mix contains bouillon) and 2 cups of noodles (I used elbow macaroni). Bring to a boil, turn down to a simmer, and cover. Simmer about 15-20 minutes or until noodles are cooked through. (I stirred this every few minutes to prevent the noodles from sticking to the bottom of the pan.)
It tasted ok just like that, but I think the addition of cheese really helps it. I added a handful of shredded cheddar to my bowl. I'm sure powdered cheese or processed cheese sauce would work, too.
Another variation for it is a stroganoff. Simply add a little extra onion powder plus some celery salt, and some sliced mushrooms (fresh or canned). Stir in a few globs of sour cream just before serving.
Other variations include chili (add diced tomatoes and chili powder), potato (use thin sliced potatoes instead of noodles), or rice (use rice instead of noodles).
Monday, October 10, 2011
The Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookie
I don't like cookies. In general, I don't like sweets at all. But Hubby adores all things chocolate, so the classic chocolate chip cookie is his favorite.
Although I am a lousy cook, I am a pretty decent baker. Not sure why, except maybe because baking is about following recipes, and I'm pretty good at following directions but lousy at creating my own art. Anyway, I've tried a lot of recipes, and find that this one is the absolute best if you love a soft cookie. Amazingly, these cookies will stay nice and soft for days, even without storing them with a hunk of bread. They are a lovely combination of salty/sweet, and quite tasty to even a cookie-hater like myself.
It's a fairly basic and simple recipe. I made a batch with my kids today, and they had fun with the experience (and now Hubby will get a sweet treat when he gets home from work, too).
So without further ado, here they are:
Although I am a lousy cook, I am a pretty decent baker. Not sure why, except maybe because baking is about following recipes, and I'm pretty good at following directions but lousy at creating my own art. Anyway, I've tried a lot of recipes, and find that this one is the absolute best if you love a soft cookie. Amazingly, these cookies will stay nice and soft for days, even without storing them with a hunk of bread. They are a lovely combination of salty/sweet, and quite tasty to even a cookie-hater like myself.
It's a fairly basic and simple recipe. I made a batch with my kids today, and they had fun with the experience (and now Hubby will get a sweet treat when he gets home from work, too).
So without further ado, here they are:
Mrs. Henson's Chocolate Chip Cookie
2 1/4 cup flour
1 t baking soda
1 t salt
1 cup butter (soft)
3/4 c sugar
3/4 c brown sugar
1 t vanilla
2 eggs
2 c chocolate chips (I use way more... like a bag and a half)
Follow the standard rules for baking... by which I mean pack down the brown sugar, spoon out and level the flour, etc. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Cream sugars, butter and vanilla (being careful not to overbeat). Mix in eggs (again, don't overbeat or you end up with flat cookies). Gradually add flour, soda and salt (I usually add one cup of flour and the salt and soda, then mix a little, then add 1/4 cup flour, mix a little, and finish with the final cup of flour). Don't overbeat. Stir in chips. (I use a ton of chips, because Hubby likes a chocolate-y cookie.) Bake 9-11 minutes.
Yummers.
Friday, October 7, 2011
Grease-Clogged Arteries
I think I must have a freakin' thyroid disorder.
For example, here are my meals from this past Wednesday (I was running errands all day):
Breakfast: Split a McDonald's breakfast value meal with my toddler. She got the hash browns, and I ate the Egg/Bacon/Cheese Biscuit. Also had a sweet iced tea to drink.
Lunch: Back to McDonald's for a Quarter Pounder value meal with fries. Plus another sweet tea.
Snack: Grabbed a couple of slices of cheese from the fridge.
Cocktails: Had a few, of course.
Dinner: Hubby made roast chicken, which we ate with white rice and chicken gravy. I followed this with a few Hershey miniatures.
Unless you count the pickle on my Quarter Pounder, there's nary a vegetable in any of those meals. (Relax, I feed my kids better than that. Hubby and I always eat dinner separately, since we prefer our evening meal to be after the little ones are in bed.)
Now, this type of daily menu isn't typical, but it's not atypical, either. Sometimes it's cold pizza for breakfast. And lunch might be egg salad sandwiches and a pickle (aka my favorite "vegetable"). Most days I don't drink sweetened beverages (but when I do, I drink a ton). Dinner varies greatly, but usual fare is burgers, hotdogs, spaghetti, pizza (so I can have the leftovers for breakfast, of course) or some type of cheese laden casserole. And let's not forget the cocktails I enjoy at night!
Despite this incredibly unhealthy diet and not a single shred of exercise, I have managed to lose all the baby weight from my last pregnancy. I think my thyroid is broken.
The irony: For years I was a health nut vegan. I was all about quinoa, oats, whole grain pasta, fresh/raw veggies, beans and tofu. I rarely ate anything fried.
Now my arteries are coated with McDonald's grease.
For example, here are my meals from this past Wednesday (I was running errands all day):
Breakfast: Split a McDonald's breakfast value meal with my toddler. She got the hash browns, and I ate the Egg/Bacon/Cheese Biscuit. Also had a sweet iced tea to drink.
Lunch: Back to McDonald's for a Quarter Pounder value meal with fries. Plus another sweet tea.
Snack: Grabbed a couple of slices of cheese from the fridge.
Cocktails: Had a few, of course.
Dinner: Hubby made roast chicken, which we ate with white rice and chicken gravy. I followed this with a few Hershey miniatures.
Unless you count the pickle on my Quarter Pounder, there's nary a vegetable in any of those meals. (Relax, I feed my kids better than that. Hubby and I always eat dinner separately, since we prefer our evening meal to be after the little ones are in bed.)
Now, this type of daily menu isn't typical, but it's not atypical, either. Sometimes it's cold pizza for breakfast. And lunch might be egg salad sandwiches and a pickle (aka my favorite "vegetable"). Most days I don't drink sweetened beverages (but when I do, I drink a ton). Dinner varies greatly, but usual fare is burgers, hotdogs, spaghetti, pizza (so I can have the leftovers for breakfast, of course) or some type of cheese laden casserole. And let's not forget the cocktails I enjoy at night!
Despite this incredibly unhealthy diet and not a single shred of exercise, I have managed to lose all the baby weight from my last pregnancy. I think my thyroid is broken.
The irony: For years I was a health nut vegan. I was all about quinoa, oats, whole grain pasta, fresh/raw veggies, beans and tofu. I rarely ate anything fried.
Now my arteries are coated with McDonald's grease.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Mom Guilt and First Birthday Parties
For my elder daughter's first birthday, I went all out. The theme was "Childhood Favorites." Decorations and activities centered around classic toys and games, like Crayola crayons, Play Doh and a Viewmaster (thanks to eBay). I made an elaborate cake that imitated the CandyLand board game (The cake took me 8 hours to decorate... and I spelled "Birthday" wrong. Really nice for someone who spent 6 years as an editor for a major magazine.). The food included plenty of standard childhood fare, like "Jello Jigglers," "Cafeteria Mac N Cheese," and "Pigs in Blankets." I composed a poem for the invitation, and invited the usual suspects: family, Godparents, and very close friends (which made the guest list about 40 people).
It was a pretty elaborate affair for a new mom trying to get a handle on parenting, but when I throw a party, I like to do it right.
I was pretty astounded to realize that my younger daughter's first birthday is less than two months away. Unfortunately, her birthday falls right around Thanksgiving (she'll always hate me for that, I'm sure). I suggested to Hubby that we simply combine Thanksgiving and a birthday party for ease and simplicity. But there were a few problems with that, mostly being that the guests at Thanksgiving are only half the birthday party guest list.
I also considered just having very small, very intimate party of just grandparents. But even if it was a small party, I really have to invite my brother and his wife. Which means I have to invite Hubby's siblings. And if I invite his siblings, I probably should invite his grandparents, aunt and cousin. Which means I really should include the Godparents. You know how it goes... Before I know it, the guest list is 40 people again.
Besides, I feel guilty having a small party for my second child's birthday. I threw a pretty big shindig for my elder child's first birthday. I feel like I have to do the same for my younger kid (especially since I know she'll spend most of her life feeling as if her older sister always gets the good stuff first).
So here I am, going into full-on planning mode for my baby's first birthday, and there are plenty of other stressors happening in my life right now.
Anyone have a good idea for a first birthday party theme?
It was a pretty elaborate affair for a new mom trying to get a handle on parenting, but when I throw a party, I like to do it right.
I was pretty astounded to realize that my younger daughter's first birthday is less than two months away. Unfortunately, her birthday falls right around Thanksgiving (she'll always hate me for that, I'm sure). I suggested to Hubby that we simply combine Thanksgiving and a birthday party for ease and simplicity. But there were a few problems with that, mostly being that the guests at Thanksgiving are only half the birthday party guest list.
I also considered just having very small, very intimate party of just grandparents. But even if it was a small party, I really have to invite my brother and his wife. Which means I have to invite Hubby's siblings. And if I invite his siblings, I probably should invite his grandparents, aunt and cousin. Which means I really should include the Godparents. You know how it goes... Before I know it, the guest list is 40 people again.
Besides, I feel guilty having a small party for my second child's birthday. I threw a pretty big shindig for my elder child's first birthday. I feel like I have to do the same for my younger kid (especially since I know she'll spend most of her life feeling as if her older sister always gets the good stuff first).
So here I am, going into full-on planning mode for my baby's first birthday, and there are plenty of other stressors happening in my life right now.
Anyone have a good idea for a first birthday party theme?
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Waiting for the Soybeans
My home is surrounded by a 200 acre farm that belongs to my father. Currently, the fields around us are loaded with soybeans, which Dad says will be harvested in late October or early November.
As soon as those beans are gone, Hubby and I plan to get a babysitter so we can go out to the hills and target shoot. At this point, there are a few firearms in our home that I've never fired. That's a big no-no. Every capable person should know how to handle every weapon in a house.
I'll be honest. I'm a lousy shot. My firearm experience is limited. In addition, my eyesight isn't the best. I've never concerned myself with this too much, as my reasoning for a gun has always been personal protection. If I open fire someday, the bad guy is probably going to be 15 feet from me. At that distance, I am pretty sure I can turn his torso into swiss cheese despite my eyesight.
(Side note: One year for Valentine's Day Hubby gave me a shotgun. The following year for our anniversary he gave me a .38 S&W. Gotta love a man like that.)
But as I've become more concerned with shit+fan, I've realized that it's important for me to boost my firearm skills. Whether I need a weapon for home defense or personal protection or hunting game (in which case we'll probably all starve), it just makes sense to be proficient with the weapons we own.
Also, I plan to get my concealed weapons permit for the surrounding states. The state in which I reside is pretty much Nazi, Germany when it comes to concealed weapons. Almost no one can get a permit to carry. But I can get a non-resident permit in a neighboring state, which means I'll be covered in most of the areas where I travel for vacations and such.
As soon as those beans are gone, Hubby and I plan to get a babysitter so we can go out to the hills and target shoot. At this point, there are a few firearms in our home that I've never fired. That's a big no-no. Every capable person should know how to handle every weapon in a house.
I'll be honest. I'm a lousy shot. My firearm experience is limited. In addition, my eyesight isn't the best. I've never concerned myself with this too much, as my reasoning for a gun has always been personal protection. If I open fire someday, the bad guy is probably going to be 15 feet from me. At that distance, I am pretty sure I can turn his torso into swiss cheese despite my eyesight.
(Side note: One year for Valentine's Day Hubby gave me a shotgun. The following year for our anniversary he gave me a .38 S&W. Gotta love a man like that.)
But as I've become more concerned with shit+fan, I've realized that it's important for me to boost my firearm skills. Whether I need a weapon for home defense or personal protection or hunting game (in which case we'll probably all starve), it just makes sense to be proficient with the weapons we own.
Also, I plan to get my concealed weapons permit for the surrounding states. The state in which I reside is pretty much Nazi, Germany when it comes to concealed weapons. Almost no one can get a permit to carry. But I can get a non-resident permit in a neighboring state, which means I'll be covered in most of the areas where I travel for vacations and such.
Monday, October 3, 2011
Autumn Is Here, And My Summer Goals Remain Unmet
I love autumn. It's my favorite season of the year. The weather, the leaves, wearing boots, the crisp air... it all makes me happy.
Unfortunately, as I reflect on the goals I set for the summer, I've come to realize that I accomplished nothing.
Garden my own veggies and preserve them in some way. Aside from freezing a few jars of spaghetti and pizza sauce made with garden tomatoes, I pretty much let most of my garden rot.
Lose the baby weight. I lost most of it (thanks to a diet of wine and spaghetti), but I still have a few pounds to go.
Train for a 5k on Thanksgiving day. It's always been my hope to run a "turkey trot" on Thanksgiving morning. Now it's less than 8 weeks to Thanksgiving, and I haven't yet hit the pavement. My chances of being ready to even finish a 5k are slim.
Get my shit together. I went through a bad emotional spell this summer, and a depression that was unlike my normal self. I've pulled it together mostly, but there's still some residual effects that I need to clean up.
Create a routine in my household. Routine? Ha! If handing my kid cold pizza for breakfast while I'm scrambling to clean up the kitchen from the previous night's mess counts as a routine, then I've got myself a foolproof schedule.
Kick the habits. I have a few less than desirable habits, including too many cocktails in the evenings and eating dinner in front of the TV. I wanted to break those habits and get back into a healthy lifestyle, but it hasn't happened yet.
Build up a pantry stockpile. I really wanted to add to my stockpile this summer. But money's been tight, and I just haven't been able to buy as many groceries as I've wanted.
Of course, it's not too late. Autumn brings about another season for change and goals. I'd love to start the first of the year with a whole new batch of goals, instead of still working on these same aspirations.
Unfortunately, as I reflect on the goals I set for the summer, I've come to realize that I accomplished nothing.
Garden my own veggies and preserve them in some way. Aside from freezing a few jars of spaghetti and pizza sauce made with garden tomatoes, I pretty much let most of my garden rot.
Lose the baby weight. I lost most of it (thanks to a diet of wine and spaghetti), but I still have a few pounds to go.
Train for a 5k on Thanksgiving day. It's always been my hope to run a "turkey trot" on Thanksgiving morning. Now it's less than 8 weeks to Thanksgiving, and I haven't yet hit the pavement. My chances of being ready to even finish a 5k are slim.
Get my shit together. I went through a bad emotional spell this summer, and a depression that was unlike my normal self. I've pulled it together mostly, but there's still some residual effects that I need to clean up.
Create a routine in my household. Routine? Ha! If handing my kid cold pizza for breakfast while I'm scrambling to clean up the kitchen from the previous night's mess counts as a routine, then I've got myself a foolproof schedule.
Kick the habits. I have a few less than desirable habits, including too many cocktails in the evenings and eating dinner in front of the TV. I wanted to break those habits and get back into a healthy lifestyle, but it hasn't happened yet.
Build up a pantry stockpile. I really wanted to add to my stockpile this summer. But money's been tight, and I just haven't been able to buy as many groceries as I've wanted.
Of course, it's not too late. Autumn brings about another season for change and goals. I'd love to start the first of the year with a whole new batch of goals, instead of still working on these same aspirations.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
