Last year, I took on the task of hosting my first Thanksgiving. This year, I have given the holiday back to my mother-in-law. With Patrick only a month old, I didn't think I would be able to pull it off. I did manage, though, to prepare a spiral ham, basted with Coke. I hope everyone likes it!
Since last Thanksgiving, a lot has happened in my life. Exactly a year ago, I got the okay from my doctor to become pregnant. I was very lucky that it only took a short amount of trying, and I am thankful for that.
I am thankful that I have a healthy baby boy that I can stare at all day long.
I am thankful for my husband and for the way he loves me and our son. For the way he has adapted to being married to me for the last few years and for the years we have before us.
I am thankful for my extended family and friends, who show me daily how much they love me and my family.
I am thankful for my health. After almost a year of being pregnant and being sent home on "limited activity", I am happy to say that I am as healthy as can be. Even the recovery from my c-section has been relatively painless.
I hope everyone has a great holiday - please remember to tell those nearest and dearest to you how thankful you are to have them in your lives.
Showing posts with label family. Show all posts
Showing posts with label family. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Tales of Allergies, Rashes and Babies
Today, I am 15 weeks pregnant.
That's almost four months, people. And still so much more to go.
Over the last few weeks, my pregnancy symptoms have subsided - I haven't had nausea in weeks. No vomitting either. And the constant fatigue - it's pretty much gone. Everyone has told me that this is the time when I will feel the best. And actually, I do. I feel... normal again.
Of course, this is all relative. Just as all these pregnancy symptoms subside, I am faced with another challenge: spring has sprung! There is pollen everywhere! My allergies are under attack and it's not pretty. My sneezing was so out of control one day last week (I sneezed six times in a row!), even Mike got scared. Sleep at night was tough, since I was congested.
I finally caved in and started on Claritin. One a day and it's helping.
Then - the heat rash/eczema that has taken over my arms. Every year, I got it. And somehow, every year I am surprised by it. Itch, itch, itch. Scratch, scratch, scratch.
It's getting better too.
I had a doctor's appointment today. Again, no weight gain (yeah!). All my other ailments are in check too (double yeah!). And when the doctor called for a quick ultrasound, just to check FeeNo's heartbeat, the kid did it again - turned its back on me. Maybe it's the rash on my arms that disgust FeeNo. Or maybe my sneezing is keeping him up at night. I don't know.
I did, however, receive one of the most touching cards this week. Disguised as FeeNo, my mother sent me a mother's day card. In it, she wrote how much FeeNo loved me and couldn't wait to meet me. I must have cried for nearly an hour after reading it. I hope my mother is right about FeeNo cause if you let these ultrasounds tell the story, it would certainly be different.
That's almost four months, people. And still so much more to go.
Over the last few weeks, my pregnancy symptoms have subsided - I haven't had nausea in weeks. No vomitting either. And the constant fatigue - it's pretty much gone. Everyone has told me that this is the time when I will feel the best. And actually, I do. I feel... normal again.
Of course, this is all relative. Just as all these pregnancy symptoms subside, I am faced with another challenge: spring has sprung! There is pollen everywhere! My allergies are under attack and it's not pretty. My sneezing was so out of control one day last week (I sneezed six times in a row!), even Mike got scared. Sleep at night was tough, since I was congested.
I finally caved in and started on Claritin. One a day and it's helping.
Then - the heat rash/eczema that has taken over my arms. Every year, I got it. And somehow, every year I am surprised by it. Itch, itch, itch. Scratch, scratch, scratch.
It's getting better too.
I had a doctor's appointment today. Again, no weight gain (yeah!). All my other ailments are in check too (double yeah!). And when the doctor called for a quick ultrasound, just to check FeeNo's heartbeat, the kid did it again - turned its back on me. Maybe it's the rash on my arms that disgust FeeNo. Or maybe my sneezing is keeping him up at night. I don't know.
I did, however, receive one of the most touching cards this week. Disguised as FeeNo, my mother sent me a mother's day card. In it, she wrote how much FeeNo loved me and couldn't wait to meet me. I must have cried for nearly an hour after reading it. I hope my mother is right about FeeNo cause if you let these ultrasounds tell the story, it would certainly be different.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
The truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth
Okay, folks, I promised details. Here is a chronicle of the last few weeks:
Wednesday, February 21 – Period is due.
Friday, February 23 – Take pregnancy test. Negative. Fly to Miami for Heather’s wedding.
Wednesday, February 28 – Still no period. Decide to take another pregnancy test and have Mike read it. Conversation goes like this:
Me: Take a look at this. What do you see?
Mike: What am I supposed to see?
Me: I’m not telling you. Just tell me what you see.
Mike: It looks like a line. And then another light line next to it.
Me: A. Light.Line. Next. To.It?
Mike: Yes.
Me: Holy shit. I’m pregnant.
Mike begins to strut around the house and begins calling himself “Macho Man.” He begins to talk about his virility. The strutting and talking continue for days.
Thursday, March 1 – Have blood drawn to confirm pregnancy.
Saturday, March 3 - Call Miami and let the Abuelos know what's going on. Abuela is happy. Abuelo is beyond happy. Drive down to see Grandma. She dances an Irish jig.
Sunday, March 4 - Have a birthday dinner with Mike's side of the family. Am secretly jealous that I cannot partake in the Sake Bomber drinking escapade. But really not that jealous.
Monday, March 5 – Hear from my OB/GYN. She congratulates me on being pregnant and sends me to a perinatalogist to have me checked out. She also sends me for more bloodwork.
Wednesday, March 7 - Feeling paranoid because I don't feel any different. Take another pregnancy test. It becomes positive in about 3 seconds. Just to make sure the tests are functioning properly, I have Mike take one too. His result (thankfully): negative.
Thursday, March 8 - My birthday. I work all day. Then I go home and fall asleep at 8:30 p.m.
Friday, March 9 – Mike takes me to the Melting Pot to celebrate my birthday. On the drive there, I get nauseous and Mike threatens to take me home and celebrate another time. I refuse to go home because dammit - it's my birthday dinner. And it's damn delicious.
Monday, March 12 – Hear from my OB/GYN again. My bloodwork is back and my hcg and progesterone levels are even higher. I ask the nurse if I am ‘really knocked up.’ She laughs and confirms that I am.
Tuesday, March 13 - Visit the perinatalogist. My blood sugars* have been wonderful for the past few years. Not too much concern over that. But, my blood pressure is elevated. Am referred to a cardiologist (WTH?) for treatment. But, thankfully, I am cleared for treatment and sent back to my regular OB/GYN. Before I leave, they do an ultrasound and we see the blob that is FeeNo. We can see the heart beating! Holy smokes. Mike and I share a moment. We are having a baby! Baby is due November 1. It's all very cheesey.
Everyday - I'm tired. I'm sleepy. I can't keep my eyes open. I fall asleep during my favorite television shows. Did I mention I'm tired?
Saturday, March 24 - I stay indoors all day. I finally take a shower at 9 pm. I put on fresh pajamas.
Sunday, March 25 - I get morning sickness. It lasts all day long. Stay in pajamas all day again. Make Mike go out and buy me plantains. And a skirt steak. And white rice. I love that man.
Monday, March 26 - Mike cleans the entire house because I was 'resting' the entire weekend and didn't do a damn thing.
Friday, March 30 - Have a regular OB/GYN appointment. Everything is fine with FeeNo. On my way out of the doctor's office, I experience a hypoglycemic episode. My blood sugar drops too low, they have to call the paramedics. I am given glucose through a vein in my hand and 'revived' me. They sent me to the ER for observation. While there, my new doctor came down to see me - a perinatalogist. I am now back to being a 'high-risk pregnancy.' I asked him, "So, you are going to delivery my baby?" and he responded by saying, " I am going to deliver your healthy baby." That's all Mike and I needed to hear. The doc sent me home to rest. Told me to take it easy.
Saturday, March 31 and Sunday, April 1 - Spent time at home, taking it easy. On Sunday night, Mike begins to explain the ins and outs of baseball statistics to my stomach. I fall asleep immediately.
Monday, April 2 - The Gators are playing for the National Championship for the second year in a row. I watch 5 minutes of the game before I fall asleep from exhaustion. When will this fatigue end?
Tuesday, April 3 - Wake up to the news that the Gators won AGAIN. The day is a good one. Except for the morning sickness. Ugh.
Friday, April 6 - The anticipation of telling everyone about the pregnancy is making me very anxious. I just want it to be Easter already!
Sunday, April 8 - We finally spill the beans to people. There is an excess of merriment and joy. Who knew that FeeNo would make everyone so thrilled?
More reports to come as the weeks and months pass, I promise.
* I have never written anything in my blog about my blood sugars and the type 1 diabetes I was diagnosed with when I was 18. It's never been an issue for me and over the years, I have learned to control it, live with it, and even embrace it as a part of my life. But I have never let it define who I am. There are many other things in my life that define me. However, having diabetes is going to play a significant part in the development of FeeNo and I will be writing more about it and how it affects my pregnancy. Please be patient with all the terminology and most importantly, send us good thoughts and prayers. They are greatly appreciated.
Wednesday, February 21 – Period is due.
Friday, February 23 – Take pregnancy test. Negative. Fly to Miami for Heather’s wedding.
Wednesday, February 28 – Still no period. Decide to take another pregnancy test and have Mike read it. Conversation goes like this:
Me: Take a look at this. What do you see?
Mike: What am I supposed to see?
Me: I’m not telling you. Just tell me what you see.
Mike: It looks like a line. And then another light line next to it.
Me: A. Light.Line. Next. To.It?
Mike: Yes.
Me: Holy shit. I’m pregnant.
Mike begins to strut around the house and begins calling himself “Macho Man.” He begins to talk about his virility. The strutting and talking continue for days.
Thursday, March 1 – Have blood drawn to confirm pregnancy.
Saturday, March 3 - Call Miami and let the Abuelos know what's going on. Abuela is happy. Abuelo is beyond happy. Drive down to see Grandma. She dances an Irish jig.
Sunday, March 4 - Have a birthday dinner with Mike's side of the family. Am secretly jealous that I cannot partake in the Sake Bomber drinking escapade. But really not that jealous.
Monday, March 5 – Hear from my OB/GYN. She congratulates me on being pregnant and sends me to a perinatalogist to have me checked out. She also sends me for more bloodwork.
Wednesday, March 7 - Feeling paranoid because I don't feel any different. Take another pregnancy test. It becomes positive in about 3 seconds. Just to make sure the tests are functioning properly, I have Mike take one too. His result (thankfully): negative.
Thursday, March 8 - My birthday. I work all day. Then I go home and fall asleep at 8:30 p.m.
Friday, March 9 – Mike takes me to the Melting Pot to celebrate my birthday. On the drive there, I get nauseous and Mike threatens to take me home and celebrate another time. I refuse to go home because dammit - it's my birthday dinner. And it's damn delicious.
Monday, March 12 – Hear from my OB/GYN again. My bloodwork is back and my hcg and progesterone levels are even higher. I ask the nurse if I am ‘really knocked up.’ She laughs and confirms that I am.
Tuesday, March 13 - Visit the perinatalogist. My blood sugars* have been wonderful for the past few years. Not too much concern over that. But, my blood pressure is elevated. Am referred to a cardiologist (WTH?) for treatment. But, thankfully, I am cleared for treatment and sent back to my regular OB/GYN. Before I leave, they do an ultrasound and we see the blob that is FeeNo. We can see the heart beating! Holy smokes. Mike and I share a moment. We are having a baby! Baby is due November 1. It's all very cheesey.
Everyday - I'm tired. I'm sleepy. I can't keep my eyes open. I fall asleep during my favorite television shows. Did I mention I'm tired?
Saturday, March 24 - I stay indoors all day. I finally take a shower at 9 pm. I put on fresh pajamas.
Sunday, March 25 - I get morning sickness. It lasts all day long. Stay in pajamas all day again. Make Mike go out and buy me plantains. And a skirt steak. And white rice. I love that man.
Monday, March 26 - Mike cleans the entire house because I was 'resting' the entire weekend and didn't do a damn thing.
Friday, March 30 - Have a regular OB/GYN appointment. Everything is fine with FeeNo. On my way out of the doctor's office, I experience a hypoglycemic episode. My blood sugar drops too low, they have to call the paramedics. I am given glucose through a vein in my hand and 'revived' me. They sent me to the ER for observation. While there, my new doctor came down to see me - a perinatalogist. I am now back to being a 'high-risk pregnancy.' I asked him, "So, you are going to delivery my baby?" and he responded by saying, " I am going to deliver your healthy baby." That's all Mike and I needed to hear. The doc sent me home to rest. Told me to take it easy.
Saturday, March 31 and Sunday, April 1 - Spent time at home, taking it easy. On Sunday night, Mike begins to explain the ins and outs of baseball statistics to my stomach. I fall asleep immediately.
Monday, April 2 - The Gators are playing for the National Championship for the second year in a row. I watch 5 minutes of the game before I fall asleep from exhaustion. When will this fatigue end?
Tuesday, April 3 - Wake up to the news that the Gators won AGAIN. The day is a good one. Except for the morning sickness. Ugh.
Friday, April 6 - The anticipation of telling everyone about the pregnancy is making me very anxious. I just want it to be Easter already!
Sunday, April 8 - We finally spill the beans to people. There is an excess of merriment and joy. Who knew that FeeNo would make everyone so thrilled?
More reports to come as the weeks and months pass, I promise.
* I have never written anything in my blog about my blood sugars and the type 1 diabetes I was diagnosed with when I was 18. It's never been an issue for me and over the years, I have learned to control it, live with it, and even embrace it as a part of my life. But I have never let it define who I am. There are many other things in my life that define me. However, having diabetes is going to play a significant part in the development of FeeNo and I will be writing more about it and how it affects my pregnancy. Please be patient with all the terminology and most importantly, send us good thoughts and prayers. They are greatly appreciated.
Thursday, April 05, 2007
I Think Spring Has Sprung
Really, I do.
For the first time in many weeks, I am feeling pretty darn happy. I mean, I'm pretty much a happy person and have a pretty good disposition all-around, but today, things are different somehow.
Maybe it's the shining sun - especially after a rainstorm yesterday that lasted the entire day and flooded streets and such - that's helping with my mood.
Whatever it is, I hope it doesn't go away.
This weekend, we will be celebrating Easter at my mother-in-law's. The house is going to be filled with the entire family - in-laws, nephews, even my aunt and uncle. We hope it'll be a good day for everyone.
And to make it all better, I've been recruited to make cocktail weenies. Apparently, they are my specialty. Doesn't that say alot about me? I make terrific cocktail weenies.
Happy Easter everyone! May you enjoy the blessings of the holiday and of this beautiful Spring!
For the first time in many weeks, I am feeling pretty darn happy. I mean, I'm pretty much a happy person and have a pretty good disposition all-around, but today, things are different somehow.
Maybe it's the shining sun - especially after a rainstorm yesterday that lasted the entire day and flooded streets and such - that's helping with my mood.
Whatever it is, I hope it doesn't go away.
This weekend, we will be celebrating Easter at my mother-in-law's. The house is going to be filled with the entire family - in-laws, nephews, even my aunt and uncle. We hope it'll be a good day for everyone.
And to make it all better, I've been recruited to make cocktail weenies. Apparently, they are my specialty. Doesn't that say alot about me? I make terrific cocktail weenies.
Happy Easter everyone! May you enjoy the blessings of the holiday and of this beautiful Spring!
Thursday, March 01, 2007
Weekend in Pictures
I think I've used that post title before as a copout to writing something lengthy and meaningful. Guess what? I'm doing it again.
Here, in no particular order, photos from our weekend in South Florida:
Turtles at Bal Harbour. My mother thought they were fake, so she threw pennies at them. They weren't fake afterall.
A glimpse of Emeril at his restaurant on South Beach. I'd like to think he cooked my dinner that night. He probably didn't.
The obligatory visit to the tios' house: Dad, Mike and Tio. We watched Scarface.
Monday, February 26, 2007
Heather's Wedding
Back from South Florida and already missing the sunshine and warm weather. We returned late this morning to more snow, slush, and ice. Somehow the humidity we experienced this weekend wasn't *that* bad.
More on the weekend in a future post. For now, I leave you with pictures from Heather's wedding...
More on the weekend in a future post. For now, I leave you with pictures from Heather's wedding...
Friday, February 23, 2007
Leaving... on a jet plane
My long-awaited trip to Miami is finally here! And while I really don't like Miami, I am looking forward to getting out of the freezing temperatures and gusty winds.
As far as I'm concerned, the stress of traveling began last night. It was nearly midnight when we finished packing, something I blame on myself due to a long week at work. But anyhow, as I was saying, the stress began last night.
Me: Have you taken out all the things you need for the weekend?
Mike: Like what? I have jeans and t-shirts out already.
Me: How about your suit, a shirt, and a tie that doesn't make you look like the biggest Republican in the place? And your square-toed shoes and dress socks?
Mike: Oh yeah, a suit.
Me: I can't wait to see Little Owen. I'm so excited.
Mike: We're going to see Owen and family? I didn't know that.
Me: Duh? Didn't I mention that we were going to a wedding? The wedding of a former college roommate? A roommate that I had when I was a student at the University of Florida and was a bleeding orange and blue gator? A roommate that was also roommates with my bff?
Mike: Oh, I must have not been listening.
Ugh.
The stress continued when I mentioned that we would be bringing my parents presents. Two carry on suitcases! That I got for free! Because if I actually went to Miami and bought my parents two suitcases, they wouldn't like them. But, since I told them I got them for nothing (FREE! GRATIS!), they are excited to receive them. Actually, I told them I had one, but with my excellent packing and organizational skills I was able to pack one into our regular suitcase and use the other one as a carry on for us.
Let me explain this: the thrill of getting a good quality anything is a success to Cubans, namely my parents. It helps even more if the good quality anything was free (FREE! GRATIS! NO TAX!). The other thing is that both my mother and I feel that the gifts we bring eachother are the greatest, most ingenius gifts ever known to man. We never stop to think that the pajamas my mom brought me could easily have been bought in my neighborhood mall or that the shampoo gift basket that I brought her could have been bought in Miami. We've been doing this for years, including the time I regifted my father a Waterford crystal eagle that I received at some charity dinner (I carried that baby on the plane with me, folks!).
But I digress... what was I talking about? Yes, stress. I am sure it will continue through the weekend. I have already heard word of my father cooking for us and packing his home cooking up in containers for us to bring back to Jersey (we can't get food up here, apparently). And there's no arguing with him, so we'll be eating his specialty dish for a few days after we get back.
I suppose I should just enjoy the attention from the family. Afterall, I'm their baby. And Mike, well, he's the greatest gringo they've ever met. I can't wait for my aunt to hug him and kiss him all over.
More on our adventures next week. And photos of us sweating in the hot south Florida sun and doing the white man's overbite to the Electric Slide!
Have a great weekend, everyone!
As far as I'm concerned, the stress of traveling began last night. It was nearly midnight when we finished packing, something I blame on myself due to a long week at work. But anyhow, as I was saying, the stress began last night.
Me: Have you taken out all the things you need for the weekend?
Mike: Like what? I have jeans and t-shirts out already.
Me: How about your suit, a shirt, and a tie that doesn't make you look like the biggest Republican in the place? And your square-toed shoes and dress socks?
Mike: Oh yeah, a suit.
Me: I can't wait to see Little Owen. I'm so excited.
Mike: We're going to see Owen and family? I didn't know that.
Me: Duh? Didn't I mention that we were going to a wedding? The wedding of a former college roommate? A roommate that I had when I was a student at the University of Florida and was a bleeding orange and blue gator? A roommate that was also roommates with my bff?
Mike: Oh, I must have not been listening.
Ugh.
The stress continued when I mentioned that we would be bringing my parents presents. Two carry on suitcases! That I got for free! Because if I actually went to Miami and bought my parents two suitcases, they wouldn't like them. But, since I told them I got them for nothing (FREE! GRATIS!), they are excited to receive them. Actually, I told them I had one, but with my excellent packing and organizational skills I was able to pack one into our regular suitcase and use the other one as a carry on for us.
Let me explain this: the thrill of getting a good quality anything is a success to Cubans, namely my parents. It helps even more if the good quality anything was free (FREE! GRATIS! NO TAX!). The other thing is that both my mother and I feel that the gifts we bring eachother are the greatest, most ingenius gifts ever known to man. We never stop to think that the pajamas my mom brought me could easily have been bought in my neighborhood mall or that the shampoo gift basket that I brought her could have been bought in Miami. We've been doing this for years, including the time I regifted my father a Waterford crystal eagle that I received at some charity dinner (I carried that baby on the plane with me, folks!).
But I digress... what was I talking about? Yes, stress. I am sure it will continue through the weekend. I have already heard word of my father cooking for us and packing his home cooking up in containers for us to bring back to Jersey (we can't get food up here, apparently). And there's no arguing with him, so we'll be eating his specialty dish for a few days after we get back.
I suppose I should just enjoy the attention from the family. Afterall, I'm their baby. And Mike, well, he's the greatest gringo they've ever met. I can't wait for my aunt to hug him and kiss him all over.
More on our adventures next week. And photos of us sweating in the hot south Florida sun and doing the white man's overbite to the Electric Slide!
Have a great weekend, everyone!
Friday, February 16, 2007
This Friday, I Got a Fever... and the only prescription is more cowbell
This week has been busy and full of stress. And that's only because of the weather. I shouldn't complain, as I know that other areas had far worse weather than we had in Jersey, but still, this was my reality for a week, and it seems like it will continue into the weekend.
Currently, my car is parked over a sheet of ice. It's not that we were lazy and didn't shovel it, it's that it was shoveled, then it rained ice over it and it's so compacted and frozen that it won't budge. Luckily, the car is a 4x4, so there is no sliding when I park it. The roads are relatively clean, but the rements of this snow/ice storm have started to look drappy. Very dirty and grey. And even though NJ isn't the most beautiful state, it now looks dreary and deathly.
Valentine's Day was good. I'm not really a Valentine's Day kind of gal - I prefer something simple to a huge bouquet of red roses delivered to my office. I think it stems from years of terrible Valentine's Day that were full of expectations and letdowns (I could go into the many stories, but I'm trying to be upbeat here - although... one year I made shrimp parmesan for a 'friend' - I slaved over it, cooked it perfectly, and then the 'friend' asked if we could go to the all you can eat buffet. ALL. YOU. CAN. EAT. BUFFET. I've never made shrimp parmesan since...).
Anyway, back to the upbeatness... VDay was good. No complaints. Just love. Cheesey love. That's me - a cheese whiz.
The weekend doesn't hold any exciting plans for me. Maybe a visit to the in-laws, some housecleaning, some shopping. Nothing strenuous or taxing.
Maybe I'll sleep in tomorrow. And Sunday too. *That* would be the life for me (See? The little things make me happy. The little things, people!).
And next week, I'll be looking forward to going to sunny Miami for a long weekend. Ahhh, sunshine....
For now, I leave you with this piece of funniness that never fails to crack me up...
Currently, my car is parked over a sheet of ice. It's not that we were lazy and didn't shovel it, it's that it was shoveled, then it rained ice over it and it's so compacted and frozen that it won't budge. Luckily, the car is a 4x4, so there is no sliding when I park it. The roads are relatively clean, but the rements of this snow/ice storm have started to look drappy. Very dirty and grey. And even though NJ isn't the most beautiful state, it now looks dreary and deathly.
Valentine's Day was good. I'm not really a Valentine's Day kind of gal - I prefer something simple to a huge bouquet of red roses delivered to my office. I think it stems from years of terrible Valentine's Day that were full of expectations and letdowns (I could go into the many stories, but I'm trying to be upbeat here - although... one year I made shrimp parmesan for a 'friend' - I slaved over it, cooked it perfectly, and then the 'friend' asked if we could go to the all you can eat buffet. ALL. YOU. CAN. EAT. BUFFET. I've never made shrimp parmesan since...).
Anyway, back to the upbeatness... VDay was good. No complaints. Just love. Cheesey love. That's me - a cheese whiz.
The weekend doesn't hold any exciting plans for me. Maybe a visit to the in-laws, some housecleaning, some shopping. Nothing strenuous or taxing.
Maybe I'll sleep in tomorrow. And Sunday too. *That* would be the life for me (See? The little things make me happy. The little things, people!).
And next week, I'll be looking forward to going to sunny Miami for a long weekend. Ahhh, sunshine....
For now, I leave you with this piece of funniness that never fails to crack me up...
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Tired
I'm tired. Tired of the same ole boring stuff.
I'm tired of waking up in the morning and going to work. Tired of cleaning up the messes of two adults. Tired of grocery shopping, cooking, and doing dishes. Everyday resembles the previous one: shower, shave, pay bills, go to work, get gas, get stuff in traffic, eat, don't eat, shop for things you don't need.
I need some excitement in my life. The winter can be long and dreary with nothing to look forward to.
Luckily, we have a trip planned for next month. Miami - here we come! It's just a long weekend - a visit with my parents, an old college friend's wedding, some warm weather (hopefully!) - but it might be exactly what I need to get me back to my cheery old self.
I'm tired of waking up in the morning and going to work. Tired of cleaning up the messes of two adults. Tired of grocery shopping, cooking, and doing dishes. Everyday resembles the previous one: shower, shave, pay bills, go to work, get gas, get stuff in traffic, eat, don't eat, shop for things you don't need.
I need some excitement in my life. The winter can be long and dreary with nothing to look forward to.
Luckily, we have a trip planned for next month. Miami - here we come! It's just a long weekend - a visit with my parents, an old college friend's wedding, some warm weather (hopefully!) - but it might be exactly what I need to get me back to my cheery old self.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
The Cold Creeps In
Last night's weather report said that it's finally going to feel like winter in my neck of the woods.
It's about freakin' time. We're talking about lows in the teens and some flurries.
This morning, as I was dressing for work, Mike reminded to wear something warm.
"Of course. Although next year at this time, we might be sitting in weather that is much more tropical. Or, better yet, you might get to experience your very first Noche Buena," I replied.
As the cold arrives in the Northeast, hellish conditions make their way toward a hospital in Havana.
It's about freakin' time. We're talking about lows in the teens and some flurries.
This morning, as I was dressing for work, Mike reminded to wear something warm.
"Of course. Although next year at this time, we might be sitting in weather that is much more tropical. Or, better yet, you might get to experience your very first Noche Buena," I replied.
As the cold arrives in the Northeast, hellish conditions make their way toward a hospital in Havana.
Friday, January 12, 2007
Not My Words Today
I just read this and had to post it.
I am crying.
Crying because this is a perfect summary of what it's like to have a wonderful example in your life and appreciating it. And I only wish I knew how to express it to my own father. Actually, I think I will.
My best wishes and prayers go out to Val, his immediate family, and the entire Babalu family.
I am crying.
Crying because this is a perfect summary of what it's like to have a wonderful example in your life and appreciating it. And I only wish I knew how to express it to my own father. Actually, I think I will.
My best wishes and prayers go out to Val, his immediate family, and the entire Babalu family.
Friday, December 22, 2006
Mele Kalikimaka is the Thing to Say
Mike and I have been having a 'discussion' the past few evenings about whether or not we should have presents under the tree before Christmas Day. I say yes; he says no.
My reasons:
1. We don't have any kids that will see the presents under the tree before Christmas.
2. We have to pack them all up on Christmas Day to deliver them to the family.
3. I want to take a freakin' picture of the tree with all the presents underneath it.
His reasons:
1. Santa doesn't come until Christmas Day.
2. He's stubborn.
What do you, faithful readers, do? Do you put the presents under the tree as you wrap them (the way it should be done)? Or do you keep them sitting on top of the guest bed all wrapped up and occupying space until Christmas Day (like stubborn men like to do)?
Please leave your preference in the comments section.
This afternoon, my office closes until the new year. I'm not sure how often I will be posting while on vacation, as I plan to go to as many movies as possible next week. I also have a zillion errands to run (one of them is getting my license renewed, which means a long long line at the DMV).
And so, I wanted to wish everyone a great holiday. As the Hawaiians say, 'Mele Kalikimaka!' May you, your families, and all those near and dear to you be blessed with joy, love, and health in 2007.
My reasons:
1. We don't have any kids that will see the presents under the tree before Christmas.
2. We have to pack them all up on Christmas Day to deliver them to the family.
3. I want to take a freakin' picture of the tree with all the presents underneath it.
His reasons:
1. Santa doesn't come until Christmas Day.
2. He's stubborn.
What do you, faithful readers, do? Do you put the presents under the tree as you wrap them (the way it should be done)? Or do you keep them sitting on top of the guest bed all wrapped up and occupying space until Christmas Day (like stubborn men like to do)?
Please leave your preference in the comments section.
This afternoon, my office closes until the new year. I'm not sure how often I will be posting while on vacation, as I plan to go to as many movies as possible next week. I also have a zillion errands to run (one of them is getting my license renewed, which means a long long line at the DMV).
And so, I wanted to wish everyone a great holiday. As the Hawaiians say, 'Mele Kalikimaka!' May you, your families, and all those near and dear to you be blessed with joy, love, and health in 2007.
Thursday, December 21, 2006
The Year Santa Claus Brought Me a Box of Dirt and a Stick
I'm not sure when I learned there was no Santa Claus - it could have been when I saw pictures of my uncle dressed in a Santa suit, minus the hat and beard or when my two cousins sat me down and told me that Santa was really my mom. Both of those event may have come the same year, but I honestly can't remember.
All I know is that I knew the real truth about Santa at a very very young age.
However, since I was a really smart kid, I knew that I could never let my parents know because that would just ruin all chances of getting really good stuff. So, I never let on that I knew the truth.
In the years that proceeded 'the discovery of no Santa', I managed to figure out where my mom had hidden all my presents. Granted, all the presents were wrapped, but I could always count on finding them under her bed or deep in a closet. One year, I even found presents in the trunk of the car!
Eventually, my mother figured out what I was doing and mentioned it to my father. The following Christmas, I couldn't find a single gift. I searched everywhere - the garage, the basement, the cars, the closets. Nothing.
On Christmas Eve, two presents magically appeared under the Christmas tree. Naturally, I was excited that I hadn't been 'discovered' and that 'Santa' would be making a grand delivery as usual.
Imagine my surprise on Christmas morning when I opened the presents and found a two by four stick and a shoe box filled with dirt. I was devasted. What a terrible thing to do to a kid, right? But no, my parents were all proud of themselves; my father casually mentioned how children should never try to trick their parents, because parents will always find out.
When my tears had subsided, they presented me with loads of gifts, just like all other Christmases (as an aside, the reason I never found the presents is because my mother gave them to my godmother to hide - very clever!). I guess that's why to this day, more than 25 years later, I don't try to keep things from either one of my parents. I definitely learned my lesson.
All I know is that I knew the real truth about Santa at a very very young age.
However, since I was a really smart kid, I knew that I could never let my parents know because that would just ruin all chances of getting really good stuff. So, I never let on that I knew the truth.
In the years that proceeded 'the discovery of no Santa', I managed to figure out where my mom had hidden all my presents. Granted, all the presents were wrapped, but I could always count on finding them under her bed or deep in a closet. One year, I even found presents in the trunk of the car!
Eventually, my mother figured out what I was doing and mentioned it to my father. The following Christmas, I couldn't find a single gift. I searched everywhere - the garage, the basement, the cars, the closets. Nothing.
On Christmas Eve, two presents magically appeared under the Christmas tree. Naturally, I was excited that I hadn't been 'discovered' and that 'Santa' would be making a grand delivery as usual.
Imagine my surprise on Christmas morning when I opened the presents and found a two by four stick and a shoe box filled with dirt. I was devasted. What a terrible thing to do to a kid, right? But no, my parents were all proud of themselves; my father casually mentioned how children should never try to trick their parents, because parents will always find out.
When my tears had subsided, they presented me with loads of gifts, just like all other Christmases (as an aside, the reason I never found the presents is because my mother gave them to my godmother to hide - very clever!). I guess that's why to this day, more than 25 years later, I don't try to keep things from either one of my parents. I definitely learned my lesson.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
My Mom Used to Call Santa Claus
Apparently, when I was a little girl, I used to misbehave. A lot.
And I apparently knew it too because on December 1st I would start asking, "Am I being good? I am being, right?" And my mother would humor me and say, "Oh yes, you are being a very good girl."
At times during December, I would act out and my mother, not knowing how to handle my tantrums, would call Santa Claus. She would pick up the phone, pretend to dial, and proceed to have a conversation with Santa Claus.
"Santa? Santa? It's Annie's mother. She is very very very bad. Very bad girl!"
I would completely freak out and beg her hang up the phone. Then I would try to hang up the phone myself. Then I would get a beating. And it would always end with a promise from me to behave so Santa Claus would leave me presents like he did all the good boys and girls.
This repeated itself throughout the month of December. But in the end, Santa Claus always brought me some cool presents.
Well, except for the year that he left me a box filled with dirt and a stick. But that's a post for another day.
And I apparently knew it too because on December 1st I would start asking, "Am I being good? I am being, right?" And my mother would humor me and say, "Oh yes, you are being a very good girl."
At times during December, I would act out and my mother, not knowing how to handle my tantrums, would call Santa Claus. She would pick up the phone, pretend to dial, and proceed to have a conversation with Santa Claus.
"Santa? Santa? It's Annie's mother. She is very very very bad. Very bad girl!"
I would completely freak out and beg her hang up the phone. Then I would try to hang up the phone myself. Then I would get a beating. And it would always end with a promise from me to behave so Santa Claus would leave me presents like he did all the good boys and girls.
This repeated itself throughout the month of December. But in the end, Santa Claus always brought me some cool presents.
Well, except for the year that he left me a box filled with dirt and a stick. But that's a post for another day.
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
The Trip
Yes, I survived the 2006 trip to Buffalo.
No, it wasn't horrible. It was actually nice and I had a lot of fun.
Unbeknownst to me, the first stop of the trip was not Buffalo. It was Niagara Falls. I loved being there, having not seen the falls since I was a little kid. Mike had never seen them, so it was great to share that with him.
Luckily, the weather in Ontario, Canada, was ideal. It wasn't cold, so we spent Saturday afternoon walking around the falls and taking in the 'tourist' attractions of the area.
Sunday, we drove into Buffalo, to tailgate and enjoy the game. About an hour before kick-off, however, it began to rain. Large, cold drops of rain fell on us for the entire game.
So, no snow, but plenty of rain.
I can't believe I am even writing this now: I would do it again next year if asked.
Ugh. Mike has turned me into a monster. An awful sports watching, couch warming sports fan.
As an aside, I must wish Mike a happy 38th birthday. Yes, I married an older man. He got lucky when he married a baby like me. Ha!
No, it wasn't horrible. It was actually nice and I had a lot of fun.
Unbeknownst to me, the first stop of the trip was not Buffalo. It was Niagara Falls. I loved being there, having not seen the falls since I was a little kid. Mike had never seen them, so it was great to share that with him.
Luckily, the weather in Ontario, Canada, was ideal. It wasn't cold, so we spent Saturday afternoon walking around the falls and taking in the 'tourist' attractions of the area.
Sunday, we drove into Buffalo, to tailgate and enjoy the game. About an hour before kick-off, however, it began to rain. Large, cold drops of rain fell on us for the entire game.
So, no snow, but plenty of rain.
I can't believe I am even writing this now: I would do it again next year if asked.
Ugh. Mike has turned me into a monster. An awful sports watching, couch warming sports fan.
As an aside, I must wish Mike a happy 38th birthday. Yes, I married an older man. He got lucky when he married a baby like me. Ha!
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Scenes from Thanksgiving Dinner
OMG - two posts in one day! But I couldn't resist, since I got these pictures from my sis-in-law.
Here, in no particular order favorites, scenes from a Very Diverse Thanksgiving...
My Dad and my faithful Indian companion, Patel
Baby Tommy, great nephew and godson
Dinner among family and friends in my living room. See me in the purple? My profile is 20 pounds lighter!
The Irish side: Mikey, ma-in-law, sis-in-law, and bro-in-law from Flah-rida.
Here, in no particular order favorites, scenes from a Very Diverse Thanksgiving...
My Dad and my faithful Indian companion, Patel
Baby Tommy, great nephew and godson
Dinner among family and friends in my living room. See me in the purple? My profile is 20 pounds lighter!
The Irish side: Mikey, ma-in-law, sis-in-law, and bro-in-law from Flah-rida.Now, where is my mother? She's sitting next to me, to my right. But shortly after, she got up and made her way into the kitchen. You know why? Probably to wash a dirty pot. Or to invent a makeshift mop with an old broom and towel.
Cuban Guilt
For those Cubans that read this blog, you will understand what I am referring to when I mention the Cuban mop. It's basically a stick shaped like a T, where you hang a towel on the lower end and mop. Then you take the towel off, rinse it off, ring it out, place it back on the stick, and continue mopping. Then you can easily wash the towel when you are finished. Usually, you use the oldest towel you own to do this type of cleaning.
Cubans beware: I don't own a Cuban mop (the horror! someone call the cops!).
My parents arrived in New Jersey last week for a 12-day visit that included their first visit to my new home and Thanksgiving hosted by their wonderful daughter.
A conversation began the morning after they arrived:
mom: do you have a mop?
me: no. i use the swiffer.
an hour later:
mom: do you have a mop?
me: no mom. i use the swiffer to clean the kitchen.
three hours later:
mom: do you have a bucket?
me: no.
mom: then what do you use when you mop?
me: nothing. i use a swiffer to mop the kitchen floor.
the next day:
mom: do you have a mop? i need a mop.
me: mom, i don't have a mop. i don't have a bucket either. i use a swiffer to clean the floor.
mom: why don't you have a bucket? where do you put the dirty water when you mop?
Now, I cleaned the house right before my parents arrived. Everything was spotless. Yet, my mother felt it just wasn't clean enough. Thus began the cleaning. Everyday, sweeping. Then the mop conversation. Everyday, people. Everyday. I hate the mop conversation already.
But if I say, 'listen ma, just stop it with the mop. just sit down and relax. there's no need to clean. please stop!,' I'm sure I'll get scolded.
Because in Cuban households, you never tell your parents what to do. Not even if it's your own house.
Ahhhhhh, here it comes. Can you feel it?
The Cuban guilt has arrived.
Cubans beware: I don't own a Cuban mop (the horror! someone call the cops!).
My parents arrived in New Jersey last week for a 12-day visit that included their first visit to my new home and Thanksgiving hosted by their wonderful daughter.
A conversation began the morning after they arrived:
mom: do you have a mop?
me: no. i use the swiffer.
an hour later:
mom: do you have a mop?
me: no mom. i use the swiffer to clean the kitchen.
three hours later:
mom: do you have a bucket?
me: no.
mom: then what do you use when you mop?
me: nothing. i use a swiffer to mop the kitchen floor.
the next day:
mom: do you have a mop? i need a mop.
me: mom, i don't have a mop. i don't have a bucket either. i use a swiffer to clean the floor.
mom: why don't you have a bucket? where do you put the dirty water when you mop?
Now, I cleaned the house right before my parents arrived. Everything was spotless. Yet, my mother felt it just wasn't clean enough. Thus began the cleaning. Everyday, sweeping. Then the mop conversation. Everyday, people. Everyday. I hate the mop conversation already.
But if I say, 'listen ma, just stop it with the mop. just sit down and relax. there's no need to clean. please stop!,' I'm sure I'll get scolded.
Because in Cuban households, you never tell your parents what to do. Not even if it's your own house.
Ahhhhhh, here it comes. Can you feel it?
The Cuban guilt has arrived.
Monday, November 27, 2006
I'm Still Stuffed
Thanksgiving came and went. Thankfully, without a hitch.
I am pleased to report that my first turkey was pretty tasty. Since it's over, I can reveal my marinade secret. On Monday night, I marinaded the big bird with Cuban mojo and chipotle (comprised of garlic, lemon, oil, garlic, chipotle), more garlic, and dry white wine. Then I rubbed turkey seasoning all over it and let it sit in the fridge till Wednesday. My mom and I cooked it for five hours, basting it frequently, and the result was a tasty, moist bird which I think everyone enjoyed. The ham was a hit too - but I had a lot of help from the store, since it seems those spiral hams just need to be heated through. :)
The entire family helped too (all 15 of them!) with mashed potatoes (from my hubby), sweet potatoes (from my hubby's nephew's wife - yes, it's a mouthful), sausage dressing/stuffing (from my ma-in-law), meat empanadas, stuffed mushrooms, and eggplant lasagna (from my aunt), chocolate cheesecake (from my sis-in-law), chocolate ice cream "pie surprise" (from my hubby), magic bars (from my faithful Indian friend, Patel), apple pie (from Mrs. Smith's), and pecan and pumpkin pies (from Sam's Club). I'm sure I'm missing something, but you all get the idea of the mass quantities of food.
A smaller group of us (12 in total) met up in Atlantic City on Black Friday to gamble away our nickels. None were as successful as my dear ole ma, who won $281 on a nickel slot machine (a slot machine called Risque Business, which featured a Fabio-looking like guy stripping - gross!) and walked away happy as a clam.
With her winnings she proceeded to buy a variety of items from the Dollar Tree on Saturday, including Christmas lights for my windows, dulce de leche Oreos (disgusting) for my dad, and milk. It's true that only at the dollar store can you purchase items which can accommodate all areas of your home.
We spent all day yesterday entertaining family and friends who braved the holiday traffic to see our new digs (finally!). I won't bore with details, but we had more food. And beer. And spiked punch.
That's what it's all about, huh? Eating and laughing and gossiping. And then more eating. Eating until you pass out. Eating until you have to be rolled out the door. Eating until you just can't eat anymore. And then what do you do? Eat some more. :)
It's the holiday season! As soon as I digest my food, I have to get to the mall.
But I might need a snack to get me energized first. I think my co-worker is selling candy on behalf of her daughter. :)
I am pleased to report that my first turkey was pretty tasty. Since it's over, I can reveal my marinade secret. On Monday night, I marinaded the big bird with Cuban mojo and chipotle (comprised of garlic, lemon, oil, garlic, chipotle), more garlic, and dry white wine. Then I rubbed turkey seasoning all over it and let it sit in the fridge till Wednesday. My mom and I cooked it for five hours, basting it frequently, and the result was a tasty, moist bird which I think everyone enjoyed. The ham was a hit too - but I had a lot of help from the store, since it seems those spiral hams just need to be heated through. :)
The entire family helped too (all 15 of them!) with mashed potatoes (from my hubby), sweet potatoes (from my hubby's nephew's wife - yes, it's a mouthful), sausage dressing/stuffing (from my ma-in-law), meat empanadas, stuffed mushrooms, and eggplant lasagna (from my aunt), chocolate cheesecake (from my sis-in-law), chocolate ice cream "pie surprise" (from my hubby), magic bars (from my faithful Indian friend, Patel), apple pie (from Mrs. Smith's), and pecan and pumpkin pies (from Sam's Club). I'm sure I'm missing something, but you all get the idea of the mass quantities of food.
A smaller group of us (12 in total) met up in Atlantic City on Black Friday to gamble away our nickels. None were as successful as my dear ole ma, who won $281 on a nickel slot machine (a slot machine called Risque Business, which featured a Fabio-looking like guy stripping - gross!) and walked away happy as a clam.
With her winnings she proceeded to buy a variety of items from the Dollar Tree on Saturday, including Christmas lights for my windows, dulce de leche Oreos (disgusting) for my dad, and milk. It's true that only at the dollar store can you purchase items which can accommodate all areas of your home.
We spent all day yesterday entertaining family and friends who braved the holiday traffic to see our new digs (finally!). I won't bore with details, but we had more food. And beer. And spiked punch.
That's what it's all about, huh? Eating and laughing and gossiping. And then more eating. Eating until you pass out. Eating until you have to be rolled out the door. Eating until you just can't eat anymore. And then what do you do? Eat some more. :)
It's the holiday season! As soon as I digest my food, I have to get to the mall.
But I might need a snack to get me energized first. I think my co-worker is selling candy on behalf of her daughter. :)
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Giving Thanks
Thanksgiving is really my favorite holiday. I suppose I could thank my father for this, since he has always been an advocate for the United States and thanking the country that did so many things to enhance his life.
I love Thanksgiving because it's a holiday where families get together, eat all day long, watch tv, gossip, fight, and eat some more.
This year, I have taken the task of hosting Thanksgiving at my house. I hope I don't let anyone down with my lack of knowledge on Thanksgiving hosting, or any type of hosting, for that matter. But do know that I'm trying my best.
Since I have offered to host Thanksgiving, it's something I have been thinking about for many weeks now (menu planning, distributing jobs, buying groceries). But I have also been thinking about the things I am most thankful for in my life.
I don't know if I am going to be able to post this on the actual day of Thanksgiving, since my parents are arriving tonight and the rest of the week is full of activities.
And so, I present some things I am thankful for:
I love Thanksgiving because it's a holiday where families get together, eat all day long, watch tv, gossip, fight, and eat some more.
This year, I have taken the task of hosting Thanksgiving at my house. I hope I don't let anyone down with my lack of knowledge on Thanksgiving hosting, or any type of hosting, for that matter. But do know that I'm trying my best.
Since I have offered to host Thanksgiving, it's something I have been thinking about for many weeks now (menu planning, distributing jobs, buying groceries). But I have also been thinking about the things I am most thankful for in my life.
I don't know if I am going to be able to post this on the actual day of Thanksgiving, since my parents are arriving tonight and the rest of the week is full of activities.
And so, I present some things I am thankful for:
- My husband - before him, I really didn't know how happy I could really be. In all it's cheesiness, he is a great addition to my life. And I really don't know how I would function in this world without him.
- My family, both blood and in-law - despite the craziness of both sets of families, I am grateful that I have them. My side: for teaching me values, for giving me everything they never had, for allowing me to be independent, for supporting me, and for sticking by me always (or, eventually coming around) whenever I made decisions that they didn't necessarily agree with. My in-laws: for accepting me as one of their own, for learning with me, and for making me feel the warmth of family when my own is miles away.
- My good friends - for sticking by me through the best and worst. It's a blessing to have friends that will drop everything if you need them. It's also a blessing to have friends that you can drop everything if they need you.
I could be thankful for the material things in my life: my car, house, clothes, etc, but that's not really what this is about, is it?
Happy Thanksgiving to all - I hope you find things in your life that you are thankful for.
Monday, November 20, 2006
The Commencement of Thanksgiving Week
It's a short week at work - I'm in my office intermittently today and tomorrow and off for the rest of the week.
The parental units arrive from Miami tomorrow, complete with sweaters, gloves, and hats, I'm sure. This morning, it was 35 degrees out with the high only going up to 48. Tomorrow, it's predicted to be at freezing temperature the entire day.
I spent all day Saturday shopping and cleaning. I am happy to report there is an 18 pound turkey defrosting my fridge (nevermind there is no room for anything else) and that my house is spotless. I wonder how long it will stay that way?
And since it's the beginning of the holiday season, Mike and I celebrated by going to see the new 007 movie yesterday afternoon. I think I like Daniel Craig as the new Bond. He's not terribly handsome, but he sort of has that rugged look to him. And his body? To. Die. For.
The parental units arrive from Miami tomorrow, complete with sweaters, gloves, and hats, I'm sure. This morning, it was 35 degrees out with the high only going up to 48. Tomorrow, it's predicted to be at freezing temperature the entire day.
I spent all day Saturday shopping and cleaning. I am happy to report there is an 18 pound turkey defrosting my fridge (nevermind there is no room for anything else) and that my house is spotless. I wonder how long it will stay that way?
And since it's the beginning of the holiday season, Mike and I celebrated by going to see the new 007 movie yesterday afternoon. I think I like Daniel Craig as the new Bond. He's not terribly handsome, but he sort of has that rugged look to him. And his body? To. Die. For.