C U L P: It's What's for Dinner

I'm a Runner??

2012-02-01T14:22:00.004-06:00

No. I'm not. But I'm pretending like I'm one. I'm training for a half-marathon in Myrtle Beach in about three weeks. I am certainly not going to be breaking any speed records, but I'm going to finish with my head held high and wear that medal as a necklace for the next year.

Last Saturday was a bit of a milestone for me, as I did my first 10 mile run (I use the word run loosely, it was a jog with some walking interspersed here and there, let's be honest).

This picture depicts how awesome I felt after such a long run...

(I won't show you a picture of how I felt like puking afterwards. That's not necessary.)

South Side Calls Me

2012-02-01T14:09:00.001-06:00

I can't stay away from the south side... I just got a job teaching an College/ACT Prep class at Chicago State University. The program focuses on high school students who are first generation college hopefuls from low income families. I'll be teaching writing, specifically, but helping with overall readiness for college, too. I'm really excited, but a little nervous, too!

The program director told me she was excited to hire me because I would bring some needed diversity to the program. As a white, middle-class female, it is not everyday that I am the diversity. I will be the only white teacher, but I think since I'm teaching high school there won't be any fights about whether I am white or not. I think that's a good thing. :)

Wish me luck... I'm going to rock it.

The Apple Doesn't Fall Far . . .

2012-01-21T12:24:00.000-06:00

Robbie and I both have hilarious stories of sleep talking. Once when I was saying my prayers half-asleep I told God: "Sweet dreams, goodnight". (Which I'm sure he appreciated.) Once Robbie told me where the gold was hidden. We're lunatics when we sleep. It's a fact.

Little Jacob doesn't really talk. He does some baby sign language and can say "Uh-Oh" and "Mommy". Occasionally he says "Daddy" and once in a while "dog" or "tree". So it was just too funny when I heard him talking in the sleep a few nights ago. We were driving from Pittsburgh back to Chicago and I thought Jacob had woken up when I heard him say "Uh-Oh". I looked back in the baby-view mirror to see him sound asleep: "Uh-Oh" . . . snore, heaving breathing . . . "Mommy, mommy".

This boy comes by this sleep talking honestly. I can't wait to hear what else he has to say!

Happy Holidays

2011-12-31T12:15:00.001-06:00

The "Holiday Season" was quite a fun time for us. We visited with friends and family, ate lots of good food and paraded our little Jacob around to the sound of "Oh! He is adorable!" (It's a scientific fact he's adorable, so don't mistake my comments as a mother's bias. Impossible.)

Thanksgiving

The recipe I used for the rolls said "World's Best Rolls", but JoAnna would only concede to "Iowa's Best Rolls"... I guess we'll have to work up to the World's Best title

Food, glorious food!

Jacob danced the day away...

... while I slaved in the kitchen

("Oven mitt shake" on it!)

The feast!

Jacob discovered this little chair... he loved it!

And he displayed some great musical aptitude, as well

Christmas

Christmas Carols at the Neeley Christmas Eve Recital

Just a real life look at the Neeley Christmas tree...

apparently I have some Twilight fans in my family

Getting ready for our Christmas Pageant (I was King Herod)

You can also take note of our high budget costumes...
that's a mini-present on my head for a crown... Classy

"And they were sore afraid"

Not that you would need a caption, because I'm sure this is perfectly clear what scene from the Christmas story is being depicted, but for those of you who aren't well versed in the scriptures: This is the wise men wondering where to find Baby Jesus and evil King Herod trying to trick them and munching on grapes maniacally

Naomi (My cousin's daughter - so my first cousin, once removed?)
is helping Mary and Joseph put baby Jesus to sleep. That's nice.

The Cast

Christmas Morning!

Jacob got a grill from Nana and Grandpa and loves it!

What's in there?

"I love Christmas!"

The Stair Picture

I told you he was musically inclined...

As you can see it was a Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas!

Hope you had a good holiday season. It's always a little bittersweet to wrap up Christmas, but I'm excited to start a new year.

Neeley Christmas

2011-12-26T21:43:00.001-06:00

Joy Love Story Holiday

Browse Christmas invitations and holiday cards by Shutterfly.

View the entire collection of cards.

Poor Santa

2011-12-21T23:44:00.001-06:00

Does anyone else find these commericals a bit too cruel? Come on, be nice to Santa!

Christmas is coming, the goose is getting fat...

2011-12-14T12:51:00.002-06:00

(Christmas Carol memories, anyone??)

Just a few Culp-tastic updates:

Jacob has been trying his best to be a "helper" in the kitchen.

He, 100% on his own, shoved his little booty into this sauce pan.

What is happening? He is too hilarious!

Yes, yes, Jacob. Thank you for all of your help.

Robbie is hard at work interviewing for internships for fall. It's similar to a residency; he has to complete so many supervised hours of therapy before he can be a real life psychologist: Dr. Rob. (And write a best selling book, have a syndicated day time talk show and open up his "clinic to the stars", charging $1,000 per hour - he's worth it!). He has interviewed at several places, here in Chicago and all over the country, and we will find out where we "match" in February.

Robbie is spreading Christmas cheer, that's for sure. He wore this hat out Christmas shopping last week. Seriously. I decided to take the picture for documentation after he insisted on wearing it our entire shopping trip. Try to knock down this man's Christmas Spirit, just try. (Also try to ignore Jacob chomping on our "mommy hook"- weird.)

Am I ever going to get enough of this boy's fur hood? Nope. I'm not.

Even baby Eskimos get sleepy...

2011 Christmas Card

2011-12-05T12:38:00.001-06:00

Sparkle Joy Holiday Card

Create modern holiday cards with your photos at Shutterfly.

View the entire collection of cards.

Silence is Golden?

2011-12-02T21:14:00.001-06:00

I left Robbie and Jacob at home to get some holiday shopping done. (By the way, I love "holiday shopping". Suddenly shopping becomes an official errand. Like going to the post office or buying groceries. I like to hustle and bustle.) I stopped for a snack at a little cafe mid shopping trip. I was alone, so I was totally people watching while enjoying my mini egg and cheese omelet . I must have been there for 15-20 minutes total. There was a couple sitting at the table next to me... just sitting there. They didn't talk to each other the whole time, and they weren't even on their phones or reading a book or anything. Just sitting there. Sometimes looking at each other. What was happening? Were they waiting for a ransom call or something? Or do they just hate each other?

It was weird.

Robbie, I'm glad we can talk about "nothing" rather than sitting in dead silence. Even if we bicker about you biting your nails or me always losing my phone... or about the validity of owning two different sets of Star Wars movies, so we can have both the unaltered theater version and the updated added footage version. (Can you guess what side I'm on?)

"But the original Star Wars is classic, pure...
And the newer versions are the realization of George Lucas' vision..."

It's Winter

2011-11-18T14:48:00.001-06:00

As much as I love fall, this is pretty cute, too!

Feelin' pretty good

2011-11-11T23:29:00.001-06:00

Ever since having a baby (and let's be honest, ever since I've been born) I have been trying to manage my figure. I realize this is not unique to me; most women (and sure, men, too) can relate. Since the summer I have been stuck at a weight-loss plateau. I kept dancing around the same three pounds over and over again. So frustrating, right?? Ugh.

Anyway, I got desperate to break through my plateau and decided to change things up. I have been doing low-carb for the past 4 weeks! Ah! I have definitely lost weight - but at what cost? I could kill for a bowl of cereal or a delicious piece of toast... or no wait! a pancake. Yes, a scrumptious pancake. Mmmmm....

But I can't! Not for another two weeks (until Thanksgiving). I have already lost 9 pounds, which is pretty awesome. I just hope I can sustain this after reintroducing carbs. I think I will still due minimal sugar.... but, you know what, I digress. This is not what I wanted to tell you about!

What I meant to say in the beginning before I started going off about my love/hate of carbs, was that I was at the gym and got a really nice compliment. I have gone to my gym for about a year now, and I go about 4 times a week, so I know the staff pretty well. A woman that works in the locker room stopped me just to say she thought I was looking thin. Wait - what did you say?? Thin? Thank you! It made my day. And it really gives me the will power to put off that pancake for a little while longer.

Someday, carbs... someday

Just a little Trick-or-Treating update...

2011-11-02T00:17:00.000-05:00

We made a game time decision to try out some trick-or-treating with a few friends.

Although Jacob couldn't really trick or treat very much (due to mobility issues), he still loved it... He was a Halloween champ.

Shark, Boba Fett and Burger - what a crew!

Sadly, Mustard had to work (so many sandwiches, so little time),

but Ketchup and Burger soldiered on.

Look at this little Trick-or-Treater go! Oh gosh, I love this guy.

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T14:56:00.003-05:00

I absolutely love Halloween. I love the dressing up, the decorations and all things fall.

I also love making spooking treats!

Eyeball Cookies, an optical delight!

I was all wrapped up in making these Mummy Cupcakes

(did I also mention I love cheesy, Halloween puns?)

These sugar cookies were so tasty... it was scary

There was a steep price for those who came to our door without a costume:

Cheese Ball pumpkins, grown with love

And of course, a special concoction of Witch's brew

Have a drink, my dearie!

I have to give my sister Victoria props for giving me the idea for this adorable banner

Robbie loves this banner, too

But my FAVORITE part of Halloween is the family-theme costumes

Have you ever seen a cuter Hamburger?

I can't get enough of that mini-burger! (Or that mustard)

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Toddler

2011-10-30T14:56:00.001-05:00

In the past week, Jacob has gone from this:

To this:

This boy is walking!

(And dancing)

(Wannabe) Foodie

2011-10-23T00:32:00.000-05:00

I "wannabe" a great many things... and one of those things is full of delicious food! I love knowing about how food is prepared, presented and most of all, how it tastes. Living in Chicago has really provided a great opportunity to fully indulge my foodie tendencies, and I hope to continue my food education... and practice.

A couples weeks ago, I went to see some cooking demonstrations at the Cultivate Festival (celebrating local farms) in Lincoln Park. Some of my favorite chefs were there, and I totally had stars in my eyes. I once met Rick Bayless at Topolobampo and totally was a nerd, went up to his table to bug him and told him how awesome he was. (We're now best friends.) So I knew I had it in me to not only watch the demos, but stalk and successfully meat my cooking heroes.

Jonathan Waxman

Before the demonstration started I went up and chatted with him. Mostly telling him what a fan I am. He is a real pioneer in the whole "food to table" movement. I didn't get the nerve in the moment to ask him for a picture, but I hit my paparazzi stride later in the day, no worries.

Regretting missing my opportunity to get a picture with Mr. Waxman, I saw Tony Mantuano wandering around before his cooking demonstration and I jumped at the chance to fully commit to my nerdiness and tell him what a fan I am.

And snap a picture.

And then Richard Blais. I have loved him from a far on Top Chef for 2 seasons now, so I knew I was going to really go for the gold and watch his crazy food demo and then meet the hair in person. He did not disappoint, making some salsa jelly and pork chips for an appetizer, and of course busting out the liquid nitrogen before the demonstration was through.

Another best friend made.

And I got his autograph on my festival program. What!? Who am I? Some crazed Beatles fan? Well, whatever. I did it. And I'm glad. I mean, he looks pretty happy to have met me, don't you think?

Hooray for food!

Don't Discount the Men's Section...

2011-10-12T21:41:00.001-05:00

Of H&M, that is. H&M has a pretty androgynous men's section, with some downright girly, metro men's ware... which is awesome, don't get me wrong. Real men wear pink and shop at H&M. I realize pointing out the existence of a metro-men's section at H&M is no revelation for anyone who frequents the cheaply made, fashion forward isles of H&M, but I just want to give a shout out to all the ladies out there: the men's department is for you, too! My sisters and I found some pretty cute (yes, they were "cute") hoodies, sweaters and cardigans in the men's section. Who do we thank for this? Women's liberation or metro-sexual/European men? Let's just call it a win, win.

*Dedicated to Liz, who taught me to shop in the men's section and that fashion has no gender or sexual preference! (Take that, Payson Jr. High)

Genius Baby

2011-10-03T10:24:00.002-05:00

Jacob is the total package: brains, personality and I think his looks speak for themselves. I know you all have been waiting to hear updates of all skills and talents this little man processes...

He is so curious. He gets into everything and loves to put things in and out of containers, empty all the dresser drawers he can reach, press buttons and loves to lay down completely flat to see what's under the couch. (And tries to go for the camera when we're trying to take a picture.)

Jacob is quite the dancer. (I need to take a video and post it one day.) He will shake his little hips and bob his head back and forth to almost any tune... especially Old McDonald or Maroon 5's Moves Like Jagger.

He loves to crawl. He is very fast and will wag his little head back and forth when he is really going for what he wants (like racing me to the baby gate before he's trapped).

He doesn't seem too terribly interested in walking. But, he does usually walk when we hold one of his hands or with his little toy walker. He can stand for several seconds on his own, which he really seems to enjoy...

He points at everything and chats in his own little baby-talk.

I totally know what he's saying.

He signs "food", "more" and "all done"... which is pretty incredible since I've haven't done that great a job of teaching him baby signs. He really signs "more" for "want", (he uses it for just about everything) but I'll take it.

He's a master at opening and closing doors.

This boy loves to read. He loves for Mom or Dad to read him a good book, or he is fine to read on his own. His favorite book right now is Heads, although he tries to destroy the flaps each time we read it, which gets old pretty fast.

He loves fruit. He hates tomatoes. He likes oatmeal.

Jacob has a little green blanket "lovey". He will pull it out from his crib, carry it around in his mouth while he crawls (yes, like a puppy... whatever) and lay it on the ground and then snuggle his little face into it. It's SO cute to watch.

His personality is so hilarious. He laughs and chuckles all the time.

He is a total ham. Give this boy an audience, and he'll definitely put on a show.

Baby Genius, I'm telling you!

I'll Do What I Want...

2011-09-25T09:40:00.004-05:00

There are so many things in our lives that we do because we have to. It can really suck the joy out of life to always live and act in a way that is dictated by what you should do.

This morning I did what I wanted to do. I woke up a little on the late side, so even though I didn't have time before trying to get out the door to church, I still made myself delicious, fluffy pancakes. Just for me. It was great. Then I wrote this blog post... which I also "don't" have time for, but I did anyway. Just because I wanted to!

It's going to be a good day...

You didn't know I'm famous?

2011-09-14T00:09:00.002-05:00

View more videos at: http://nbcchicago.com.

Attack of the Jellyfish!

2011-09-12T23:12:00.002-05:00

Our Neeley family reunion was at Holden Beach this year and it was a total blast, for the most part. There was a small moment of crisis when my 14 year old sister, Ruthe, was stung by a jelly fish while swimming in the ocean. She was, of course, in pain and there were screams and tears.

My mom rushed into the house and started calling for volunteers to pee on Ruthe's sting. I had heard this urban legend before, too: If you get stung by a jelly fish, pour salt water on it and pee on it. Case closed, you're healed. Right?

While people were getting rounded up to "relieve themselves" on Ruthe's stung leg, I decided to hop on the internet quickly and see if we really should humiliate ourselves and Ru by actually peeing on her. I mean, that's gross, even if it would help someone's sting feel better. Let's be sure about this, people. Sure enough, Google led me to the American Red Cross website and a "what to do if you are stung by a jelly fish" article. Both said: No matter what you have heard, don't pee on it. It really doesn't do much.

However, Ryan, my cousin-brother (he has lived and been party of our immediate family for the last 10 years or so) had already sprung into action and began to fill up a small bucket with pee. (Apparently it was perfect timing for him, or he is just skilled at peeing on command... I don't know if I want to know which it is.) He was all ready to dump it his full bucket on Ruthe's leg when I stopped the madness and told everyone about my official research on the world wide web.

Ruthe's leg was still in pain, but we put vinegar on her sting, rather than urine (in accordance with my Google search). Ryan then had to dispose of the bucket, but no one was really harmed in the process. Except maybe my Aunt, who was sitting on the back porch while Ryan filled up his bucket in the corner... apparently in times of true emergency (like providing pee as quickly as possible for a jelly fish sting) there is no time for discreteness.

Surprise Twins

2011-08-11T23:05:00.000-05:00

We flew out to San Diego for Robbie's brother, Doug's, wedding and met the rest of the family... and as fate would have it, when we saw Robbie's dad, Rex, history was made:

Is it awesome or embarrassing to randomly wear a matching shirt with your dad? You decide.

Birthday Festivities - Part Two (Too much? Maybe...)

2011-08-09T14:37:00.000-05:00

So, yes, this is Prince Jacob's second birthday party. Don't worry, I'm not planning on pushing him into toddler pageants or anything - I'm just a sucker for family parties and babies covered in cake.

This time we decided to forgo the highchair and let Jacob just got for the cake on the floor. It was pretty darn cute.

He knew just what to do with that cake - he was not timid at all.

Cake boy:

And no, I didn't let Jacob eat the whole cake... much to his dismay!

He may not really know what it means to get presents, but I definitely think he knew the day was all about him.

And yet another banner shot - we couldn't get enough.

Oh, I love this boy!

Birthday Festivities - Part One

2011-08-06T16:47:00.003-05:00

This birthday boy got two parties... which is kind of funny and ridiculous since he really could care less. However, coming from a mom who gets excited to pick out his outfit everyday, you knew I was going to possibly go overboard on his 1st birthday.

While on vacation with my family we had a combined birthday for my cousin-brother Ryan, cousin Megan and Jacob. I wrote the names on the cake... I think you can tell I'm no professional.

I tried to have Jacob's first piece of cake also be his first taste of sugar, but with 9 aunts, 4 uncles, and 4 grandparents that love to spoil this boy that did not happen! (I know you've all been sneaking him M&Ms!)

He loved his cake!

On his actual birthday we went to park for some family time

You're one year old, Jacob!

One Year...

2011-08-05T22:42:00.000-05:00

One year ago today Jacob arrived!

Even though I always knew that Jacob would start to grow up,

there was a part of me that thought he would be a baby forever...

1 month

2 months

3 months

4 months

5 months

6 months

7 months

8 months

(I just had to include this, too...

Poor guy, he was tired of sitting in the grass)

9 months

(Luckily, he gave the lawn a second try)

10 months

11 months

1 year TODAY!

He is still basically a baby, but he is bordering on toddler-hood! This little boy is so sweet and precious. I really can't wait to watch him grow up... but then again, it makes me a little weepy to think of him getting bigger, too. Happy Birthday, Jacob!

At the Beach

2011-07-23T13:05:00.000-05:00

It's five o'clock somewhere...

Time and tide wait for no man...

Yo-ho, yo-ho...

I'm diggin' this beach vacation.

I feel like I'm on a Corona commerical... minus the Corona

I Still Have Pride...

2011-07-13T22:01:00.001-05:00

Even a month later!

Gay Pride Parade practically goes down my street every mid-June (and Robbie and I have even had the butt-slapping opportunity to be in the parade a few times). Although we did not attend this year (having a baby is great, but can also unavoidably cause one to be a party pooper at times), I did come home to find this fellow on my lawn. This parade enthusiast wandered off the route a bit to find themselves in my courtyard. Originally, they were sprawled across the grass, which looked much more hysterical, but I wasn't quick enough and I snapped off this pic just as they sat up. Oh well. You get the drift.

If you don't go to the Pride Parade... it will come to you... and be waiting on your lawn.

No News is Good News?

2011-07-11T10:32:00.000-05:00

Things have been slow... Robbie mentioned to me that I hadn't blogged in awhile, and he's right, I suppose I haven't. But honestly I haven't really been in the blogging mood and on top of that, I don't really feel like we have had much happen that is worth sharing with world and our multitudes of fans. It seems like it's been quite the "same old, same old" routine.

Here are some of our tiny updates:
* Robbie is interviewing for jobs and internships for this coming fall. We are hoping for an internship which will keep us on track for his planned graduation schedule, but would also settle for a job which will help us pay some bills while we extend his schooling by a year and wait until next year for an internship. Waiting, waiting, waiting.

*Jacob has four teeth and is super adorable. His two upper teeth are pretty crooked and have a big space in between them (I'll try to find a picture soon), but they are really cute. He also does this really crazy, forced smile when he knows we want him to smile. That boy.

This is a toned down version of his cheesy smile

And also try to ignore the laundry... Robbie thought it would be cute to take a picture of Jacob in the hamper? I don't know what's going on...

*In more baby news (which dominates our lives) Jacob is crawling all over creation. Sometimes he tries to crawl really fast and slips and hits his head. Poor guy. But he is on the move and determined to get where he wants to go! He is also pulling himself up on all the furniture, including his crib, which kind of gives me a heart attack... but I know he is loving all this new freedom.

*It's super hot and humid, but the up side to that is I'm not nine months pregnant, so I am dealing with it much better than last summer.

*Summer TV pretty much stinks. Ugh. I know that TV movie stars need vacations, too, because their lives are so difficult and hard (mo' money, mo' problems), but now I'm stuck with a summer full of HGTV and BRAVO, exclusively. Oh, and Bachelorette, I can't forget about that. And although I usually won't say no to a design or realty show, I do long for a new 30 Rock or Parks and Recreation episode. Are you thinking that it's pathetic that I am writing about the TV I like to watch as part of my "life update"? So what??

*Are you excited for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2? Me, too!! I mean, I kind of want to dress up. I'm not kidding. I'm Hermione, Robbie's Ron and Jacob is Harry Potter with a tiny lightning bolt scar! Can you imagine anything more spectacular? Oh my gosh. I may have just stumbled onto our next Christmas Card...

Robbie's Star Wars Dream Come True . . .

2011-06-20T11:11:00.004-05:00

Robbie turned 8, I mean 30, this year. So I decided to give him something he would truly love . . . A full-on Star Wars theme party. But I would be lying if I said I didn't enjoy making the crazy Star Wars menu and seeing the look on Robbie's face.

The Spread:

It all started when I found these cookie cutters at Williams-Sonoma.

I mean, look how great these turned out! These cookie cutters rocked.

And the recipe for the cookies was also perfect. My friend shared the link to the recipe for these Yoda Oreos... they turned out spectacular.

(The secret is a table spoon of Matcha powder - perfect color, great flavor.)

They taste as good as they look!

And of course when you bake Yoda cookies, you have to use a Darth Vader spatula.

Pretzels dipped in white chocolate...

dyed red or green, depending on your "force" orientation.

Vader Veggies - Darth is serious about his health.

Sarlacc Pit Dip - I thought this was so clever - too bad I can't take credit for this idea, I stole it from the same blog I found the Yoda Oreos.

Poor Han, trapped in Grape Jello Carbonite!

This was actually a pretty big hit with the kids...

and the "kid at heart" :)

I couldn't help myself with this one. I do love the Star Wars one-liners.

A little nod to Space Balls - and also a good excuse to add pizza to the menu.

(I didn't include a link to "Pizza the Hutt" because I seriously think it looks SO disgusting, but feel free to refresh your Space Ball memory on your own - but at your own risk!)

Again, thanks to Williams-Sonoma, I found these adorable Star Wars cupcake wrappers and toppers. Choose your side carefully...

This Ewok food is also from Just Jenn Recipes - so cute!

When you are hiking around Endor, you need your Ewok trail mix!

This picture was taken after most of my Hoth Ice Cubes had been used in drinks or melted, but I just thought it was so clever. I found star ice cub trays and used those to make it even more Star Wars-y.

So, originally I was planning on making a type of punch for the Yoda Soda, but after I had been baking from 9am - 5pm, and the few guests we had invited were about to arrive, I bagged the punch and settled for actual soda. (Or I as I call it: pop!)

And what true Star Wars fan wouldn't appreciate some Blue Milk to wash it all down!

(Robbie loved this... and yes, it is just plain old milk, but dyed blue)

The finale was the birthday cake: Robbie dreamed of having a Storm Trooper Cake, and at first I thought about just ordering one (which I'm sure would have looked much better), but after seeing how expensive it was going to be - I bit the bullet and made one myself. I'm no professional, but I was just happy you could tell what it was!

And it tasted delicious, too, - Ina Garten's chocolate cake recipe never lets me down!

The birthday "boy":

Happy 30th Robbie! If being obsessed with Star Wars and embracing your inner-nerd makes you this wonderful of a husband and father, so be it.

Ok, ok, I'll watch Return of the Jedi with you. (For the 85th time.)

Two Items of Note:

2011-06-14T21:13:00.001-05:00

1) On Sunday our little family went on a walk. It was a great day outside so there were tons of bikers and joggers. Nothing out of the ordinary . . . until I passed a jogger with bare feet. Completely bare. Not those fake rubber feet shoes - bare feet. What the? Seriously? Is that a thing? It's freaking me out.

2) Robbie and I were watching Bachelorette (yep), and they were on this date in Thailand. They were boating through all these beautiful, picturesque mountains and Robbie says: "Hey, those look like the Hallelujah Mountains from Avatar." No, Robbie, they look like regular old mountains from planet Earth. Soo nerdy. But I love him anyway. (I hope he loves me anyway, too, even though I'm a total turd and posted this on the internet.)

PS Robbie just made me put the link to the Avatar mountains, too. Just saying . . .

Baby Proof

2011-06-08T23:20:00.000-05:00

I was baby sitting for a friend recently and had every confidence that I could care for the kids without a hitch. Watching the kids was easy. We played with action figures. We had a snack. Everyone went to bed. Not even one tear or fight or boo-boo.

However, when I tried to open the cupboard with the glasses to get a drink . . . no dice. There was a child proof lock on the door and I, for the life of me, could not out smart this little device. I almost got my finger stuck in the cupboard trying to unlock it! I don't know why I am such a dummy! All I wanted was a drink of water from a small cup, but since the glasses were locked away, beyond my mental capacity, I ended up uses a fancy mug of sorts. Oh well. At least I was thirsty anymore, but I sure felt dumb.

Have you seen that Tina Fey and Amy Poehler Baby Mama? Well, Amy Poehler (the uneducated, classless, lovable idiot) ends up peeing in the sink because she can't work the baby-proof toilet seat. Is that me? Yes, Sarah, yes it is. Well . . . almost.

I guess I better get things figured out since I'm baby proofing my own cupboards now. And I certainly don't want to pee in the sink. No way.

(Seems like it would be easy, right?)

It's a slow day . . .

2011-06-04T23:12:00.000-05:00

You know when you turn on the news and there is a cutesie story about mating penguins or something and you are just like, "I guess it was a slow day for news?". That has pretty much been my life the last week or so. Here are the latest headlines:

*I was driving to an appointment in the suburbs recently on a sunny, warm day. There were tons of people out and about. I was driving by a large park, full of people, and two huge deer were just running and leaping around the sidewalk near the road. I of course got freaked out, and I was suddenly the deer in headlights as these two deer played around seemingly oblivious to me, the other cars, tons of pedestrians, and the hoards of teenagers capturing the moment on their iPhones. It was full on crazy.

*And not wanting to let down my brother, who now refers to my blog as "baby blog" (guilty as charged), Jacob is totally army crawling all around. He has become pretty mobile, which is both exciting and sad. Great that he is growing and moving and learning and healthy . . . Sad for me who now has to chase him.

*Every baby store retailer within a 5 mile radius knows Jacob and I by name. They wave to me from the window of the store as we pass by . . . and then stop in. We go on a lot of walks, and I can't help it that almost every possible path we may take is lined with shops that call to me. Ok, fine, sale racks that call me. One of the workers in BabyGap said: "It has been so much fun to watch him grow". Awesome.

*I've hit a plateau of sorts in my health goals. Time to really step it up. I'm making a goal chart and everything.

*I now officially have 5, and possibly 6, piano students. It's a good stay-at-home-mom gig so far. I really love it and my students are adorable and talented. I am so glad that my mom convinced/made me stick with piano, and that we inherited a free piano from my aunt. Nice.

Bored? You were warned. I told you it was a slow day . . .

Lessons Learned . . .

2011-05-27T00:00:00.001-05:00

Robbie has been begging me to watch Teen Wolf with him for a last week or so. He finally got his way and boy, am I glad. I really learned some valuable life lessons:

1. Almost any girl looks big compared to Michael J. Fox, he has an 18 inch waist.

2. If you're a high school student in the 80's you've got to have a cool nickname like Styles or Boof.

3. Also, if you want to make a sweet soundtrack to a 80's movie, all you need are electric drum beats and a sweet guitar riff.

4. Don't be judgmental. If your friend or teammate suddenly turns into a wolf, just be cool and go with it.

5. You thought Spiderman coined it, but you're wrong. Teen Wolf's dad said it first: with great power, comes great responsibility.

6. If you're a Teen Wolf on the varsity basketball team, make sure you're not a ball hog.

7. And always remember to be yourself. You don't have to turn into a Werewolf to be special.

Thanks, TW

And then I turned 90

2011-05-19T10:14:00.000-05:00

When did I suddenly become 90 years old? Because, I think I am officially becoming prudish. I find it hard to listen to almost any radio station without something inappropriate coming on. Rihanna, you're gross. Bruno Mars, I like you, but seriously? Britney Spears, you know how I feel about you. And every other pop artist out there, you're so inappropriate! (Don't worry, Cee Lo, I do love your radio edit.) But seriously, is it impossible to have a hit song without referencing teen sex or exploiting women? (Okay, yes, I know - probably on the country western station. You got me there, country: you're much cleaner and more wholesome than top 40.)

I remember a year or so ago watching the video for If I Never See Your Face Again with Maroon 5 and Rihanna and being so disgusted. Of course the lead singer of Maroon 5 was dressed in this dapper 3-piece suite and Rihanna was in lingerie. Because women can't be successful and considered beautiful and sexy without dancing around half naked to please some chauvinist man (or men, I should say)? What a horrible example to young girls and boys everywhere and what a slap in the face to the entire feminist movement. Ew.

The point is that I seriously find it hard to listen to so much of the music today on the radio without feeling gross about my 9 month-old listening to it, also, in the back seat. Is this how my Mom felt when she found my Madonna CD in sixth grade? I swear that was not as bad as this. Or was it?

Whatever. Maybe I'm prudish when it comes to some areas of pop culture. Maybe I'm prudish when it comes to my kid. But more importantly, where do I draw the line? I haven't, and am not planning on, walking out of my Spin class if the instructor plays "3" by Miss Spears. I don't know what to do with my formally semi-cool self.

In the words of all the prudes before me: "The world's gone crazy!" (Right?)

Easter at the Beach

2011-05-17T12:07:00.003-05:00

Jacob and I were lucky enough to go to Holden Beach for Easter with my family.

Jacob had his first dip in the pool, and he really did like it.

Even though it doesn't really look that way from the pictures . . .

The weather was great and Jacob loved playing in
the sand with his aunts and uncles. He was quite the beach babe.

The water was still pretty cold, so I thought

he wouldn't be very interested in the actual ocean. . .

But he was! He really liked the little waves.

JoAnna got Jacob this adorable Hawaiian outfit, so we had to try it out on his first "tropical" adventure.

And then it was Easter Sunday!

You know how I love to buy baby clothes and treat my child like a live doll -

So I was pretty excited about his cute Easter outfit, complete with bow tie.

Before church:

And I think we have all felt like this after 3 hours of church:

Little Easter Baby:

My family always does an Easter Egg hunt, and Jacob got to help of course.

He was quite the egg hunter. You can see him providing lots of help to Eleanor here.

(He actually kept knocking the eggs off the porch as he was trying to grab them. He got a few, though.)

And then he proceeded to eat the plastic eggs. Typical.

But Jacob really did come in handy when it came to getting the eggs my six foot brother hid in the rafters of the deck. He really saved the day.

All in all, it was a fun time with the family.

I mean, come on, don't you want to spend Easter with these gals?

Jacob: sporting the new Easter outfit Nana got him.

Happy First Easter, Jacob. You rocked it.

Best Mother/Worst Mother Award

2011-05-10T23:35:00.000-05:00

"They" have been doing construction to the sidewalk in out courtyard. Specially, the sidewalk in the courtyard right outside Jacob's window. I heard some clinking and hammering while I was doing the nap time routine, but just as Jacob was falling asleep the jack hammer started. Ugh. I quickly thought about what other room in this apartment could keep out the noise. My bed is along the same wall of the apartment, just as exposed to the jack hammers. The only room that was on the other side of the house and was closed off enough to keep out the intense side walk drilling was the bathroom. I made a split decision and grabbed a play mat and his comforter, scooped up the barely sleeping child in my arms and made an insta-tub-crib.

Exhibit A:

Exhibit B:

I was feeling pretty good about myself. I had innovated a quite nap space and kept my baby sleeping among jack hammers. Way to go, Mom.

However my pride was short lived and I soon realized the worst (well, the worst if your baby is sleeping in the only bathroom): I had to go. I didn't know what I would do! I thought about just taking my chances using the bathroom next to my sleeping tub-baby, but then I would have went to all the trouble to put him to bed in the bathroom, just to wake him up 5 minutes later . . . no way. Plus, a toilet flushing would definitely wake him up and I really had to go, if you get my drift.

There is a Caribou Coffee across the street did have a bathroom, and I can make it there in under a minute. Did I dare leave the babe for a few minutes and use the bathroom? Wake the baby or abandon my child . . . hmmm. I guess it is obvious how much I value Jacob's naps, because I ended up grabbing the monitor, locking the door (of course) and running across the street to do my business and let my baby sleep. I was back to the house in 5 minutes and 45 seconds, Jacob still asleep safely in the tub.

Exhibit C (proof my child was happy and healthy post tub-nap):

So there you have it. I'm not the only crazy mother out there, right? I seem to remember a story about my grandmother and sleeping in the bath tub for some reason, but I don't think it involved naps, jack hammers or going the bathroom across the street in a coffee shop. Please tell me some of you out there have some wild stories, too!

Royal Connection

2011-04-29T11:36:00.001-05:00

We officially share our anniversary with William and Kate.

Doesn't that mean something? Good Karma? Good Luck? A nod to our regal-ness?

Here's to 6 years of marriage and our generous attitude about sharing our anniversary with the royal couple. You're welcome, Kate. No problem.

This Is Not A Craft Blog

2011-04-20T22:42:00.007-05:00

But - I did do a craft . . . and I think it turned out pretty well. A little freezer paper, an iron and some fabric paint and: whal-la! My friend Alicia was the catalyst for this crafty venture, and she really made all my onesie dreams come true!

Often when I take on a craft with a friend or in a group, I have a way of asking a lot of questions and needing so much help that the instructor just ends up doing half (or all) of my project for me. However, despite all my questions/worries/mini-freak outs, I finished this project on my own. Hooray for me! (and for Alicia for putting up with/helping me!)

Of course I insisted Jacob model each onesie for me.

He's used to it.

Although I really love the little mustard wiener dog and the mini car,

R2-D2 is my favorite.

(I'm obsessed with him!)

But even professional models get fed up after awhile.

And thus ended the onesie fashion show,

but maybe the beginning of a craftier Sarah?

I've Still Got It

2011-04-15T14:09:00.005-05:00

Jacob and I were strolling to the gym the other day, passing the school across the street from our apartment. We usually pass the kids out playing for recess, and Jacob loves to watch them run and jump and yell. Pretty fun.

However, this particular day, there was a class (probably kindergarten or first grade) lining up against the fence. Two boys, near the back of the line, were totally going nuts. In my former life as a teacher, I would have totally put the little devils in check without a second thought. But now I'm a mom. Just a random mom on the street. I certainly didn't want to step on anyone's toes, since I don't even have a child that goes to that school. I did a quick scan of the playground to see if any other teachers or adults were coming to the rescue anytime soon. There were none. I could either choose to keep walking as a uninvolved-innocent-bystander-mom-with-a-stroller or I could choose to put on my teacher hat and go for it.

What had most likely started as a pretend game of punches and kicks had gone awry and the one little boy was totally kicking the crap out of the other boy. I took matters into my own hands and strolled up to the fence. I gave a total "teacher" look to the two boys. "Excuse me, what's going on?" Of course the boys were in stunned silence at this point, this random woman with a baby coming into their 6 year-old world. Now I addressed the kicker: "Do you think it is nice to be kicking him? You need to stop." I stood strong and kept my serious face on until the boy turned around in the line and began to make the "I'm embarrassed and stunned" face. The other little boy stayed silent, but he eyes said, "Thank you, kind stranger. You're my hero". The kicker-boy, said under his breath, "You're weird" (substitute a "w" for the "r" if you want the full effect) . . . but he stopped kicking, so I still win.

Boo-yah.

Ah!

2011-04-13T11:11:00.000-05:00

He chomped me!

In his defense, I was trying to nurse him and he wasn't interested . . . but couldn't a simple whine and head turn have sufficed?

Damn that new tooth.

Picky?

2011-04-09T02:01:00.000-05:00

Jacob has done very well starting solid foods, and so I thought I would give him a little avocado. Who doesn't love avocado? It's pretty bland, soft and easy to mash up - I thought it would be a total baby food hit. Unfortunately, Jacob hates it!

I guess it's too bad I bought 6 avocados on sale. Anyone for guacamole?

Updates from the babysitter . . .

2011-04-08T09:56:00.003-05:00

Jacob is a wiggler and mover. No crawling yet, but he sure loves to roll all around - especially in his crib. The other day I came in to find him backed up into the corner of his crib with both legs stuck through the crib rails.

Robbie had never really experienced this first hand, but then the other night Robbie sent me this text while I was at the gym, after he had put him to sleep at home.

(Apparently Jacob also shrunk once he rolled around the crib, too.)

Love Letter to My Gym

2011-04-05T00:34:00.002-05:00

I really love my gym. What's not to love?

It's two blocks away (easy to get there, hard to find an excuse not to go), the child care is great (Jacob has a fun time playing with new toys and fun friends . . . and I can totally "big brother" it up by watching the closed-circuit feed of the child care room while I workout).

The classes are awesome. I have recently fallen in love/hate with spin class. You know what I mean.

But why I really love the gym, is because I am continuing to get closer to my weight/health goals (along with the help of Weight Watchers, another love of mine). So that is awesome.

And let me just clarify, I'm no gym rat and I'm not super skinny (or a little skinny), but I am closer to skinny than I was yesterday . . . which means that one day I will be. And at least I'll keep going to gym in the mean time.

Thanks gym, I'm so glad we're friends.

It's Here, People!

2011-03-29T10:32:00.002-05:00

The First Tooth!

Maybe I'm too excited about a measly, little first tooth - but I can't help it - I'm really excited! However, I'm not very excited about the prospect of being bit during nursing; but it was still pretty fun to see Jacob's first little tooth poking out from his lower gums. (And it's sharp!)

Way to go, buddy!

BYU Boys

2011-03-21T11:29:00.001-05:00

Robbie usually isn't superstitious, but he makes an exception for BYU sports. Our baby will now be wearing the following outfits in order to help ensure Jimmer leads us to another victory!

(Jacob was apparently very anxious about the upcoming game in these pictures)

Go Cougs!

So you had a bad week . . .

2011-03-21T11:05:00.002-05:00

That's life right? Not every week is awesome, and some weeks (or two weeks, whatever) are just downright sucky.

Not to be a total complainer, but I think you will agree that the last several days have not been "my week":

*I tripped over my own, too long, pajama pants and stubbed my toe. (Not that unbelievable since I recently slipped on the over-frebreezed kitchen floor, fell on my butt and knocked over the whole trash can.) But just besides being klutzy, now my toe nail is totally black and threatening to fall off. Ew! Right before spring and summer - come on!

*Jacob is still barely getting over his surgery and an ear infection. It has been kind of awful. Extra baths, ointment, then an ear infection, no sleeping, antibiotics, diarrhea (from the antibiotics -- and sorry if that is too much information), a pro-biotic to help combat the diarrhea, more baths, still not much sleep, sad baby, sad mom, no sleep . . . sleeping baby in my arms. Sigh.
*Robbie just got back from being away for a week long conference. It was rough. I'm really glad he's back.

*I spent 2 hours at the doctors office and 4 hours at another office (with my sad, hungry baby) making sure all our paper work was in order for our insurance.

*In more Jacob news, he peed during a diaper change in the middle of the night and he has quite the distance and arc. It was dark, and I couldn't see where the puddle had actually formed. I did the best I could to wipe up the floor and put my baby back to bed. But on the way out - yep - I totally stepped in it. Soo gross.

Yes - I am being a downer. But in my defense, it was a really hard week.

I would also like to say, that things have been much better. Not suddenly perfect, but better. At least I'm not a single-mom anymore and Jacob did start to sleep a little more, which means I get to sleep a little more.

But what really made me start feeling better was watching and helping this little fellow go from this:

To this:

I do love being with this sweet guy, even during a "bad week".

It's Friday.

2011-03-18T00:33:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure if this really needs an introduction. There was only one song that really depicted how I felt about this weekend . . .

Move over, The Cure, you no longer have the corner market on Friday feel good songs. I believe you may have met your match in this pre-teen, auto-tuned, badly dressed, with even worse make-up, pop star hopeful. Tough break.

There are so many confusing and awesome things about this song. Although it is literarly the most popular song in the world right now - for all the wrong reasons - it is still baffling why she is so torn over what seat to sit in . . . and why she wanted to brag about being able to name the days of the week in a row . . . and why she is friends with a 30 year old rapper. Why, why, why.

Oh well. It's Friday. We, we, we so excited.

Dear Spring,

2011-03-17T16:11:00.000-05:00

Hello. How have you been? I hope this does not come across as pushy or rude . . . but I was just wondering if you planned on sticking around? I am in no way trying to tell you how to do your job, or presuming to know better than you do, but I couldn't help but notice it is 68 degrees today. I couldn't help but dream of more warm breezes and hope for more walks outside without my eskimo suit and 12 blankets wrapped around my child. I just don't want to be jerked around, is all, Spring. We have had such good times together in the past, but it has been a long, cold winter these many months without you. I just want to know if this is for "real". We had a couple of warm days a few weeks ago, but it didn't last. I don't know if I can take the heartbreak again.

Yours Truly,
Sarah

LOL

2011-03-15T15:54:00.001-05:00

If you want to laugh out loud, check out my friend Megan's story about subbing for a 3rd grade class . . . I was dying!

Megan's Blog Post: Spellcheck

Thank You!

2011-03-13T12:44:00.004-05:00

I've been saying this for quite some time - he is just more entertaining about it . . .

The Daily Show - Crisis in Dairyland - Message for Teachers
Tags: Daily Show Full Episodes,Political Humor & Satire Blog,The Daily Show on Facebook

And in all seriousness, I don't think that teachers are above any blame or accountability for education today. I think the idea of 3-5 years of work, then earning tenure so it is nearly impossible to be fired is absurd. BUT, at the same time, let's be real, you can't just completely dump on teachers for not changing the world when we have children coming to us from impoverished, drug ridden, violent and uneducated families and backgrounds. Not that these children are inherently unable to learn, but you have to realize it is tougher than your average suburb kid with a Batman lunch box, PTA parents, coming into school talking about the trip they took to DC to learn about our nation's history. (Hell, my school didn't even have a PTA, PTO . . . I could barely get a chaperone for a field trips. I still worked hard and did what I could. I really enjoyed teaching, but anyone can see the uneven playing field, for both students and teachers.)

There are lots of bad teachers out there, and lots of good ones, too. And the last thing I want to say (I keep saying "one more thing" in my head, but I just keep going!) is that in the end, you get what you pay for. Don't pay someone $30,000 and expect them to work like you're paying them six figures. If you want the very best and brightest to come and innovate educational reforms to help low income communities succeed, put your money where your mouth is. It almost seems likes only a mediocre achiever or a saint would be drawn to teaching (and that is coming from a teacher). Let's keep it real when we talk about the problems in education. Are teachers part of the problem/solution? Yes! Of course! But lets look at the whole puzzle before we start throwing teachers under their own Hyundai econo cars (which I drive), in their chalk covered dress suit from two seasons ago, shall we?

I Read Too Many Baby Books

2011-03-10T11:17:00.001-06:00

Way too many. And then when I have to make a decision about something that is not covered in one of my 900 baby books - I am paralyzed trying to figure out the "right" thing to do in order make sure my baby is getting the "best". What a crock!

Some books have been helpful, but not to the point of obsession that I take them. I thought Happiest Baby on the Block had good ideas and tips, but when things didn't go smoothly, I would fret: "Oh no! Jacob is crying! My baby isn't the happiest on the block!" (Because of course everyone wants their baby to be not just happy, but the happiEST, leaving all those other babies in the dust.)

I have come to realize (not on my own, mind you, with the help of many hours of therapeutic talks with basically anyone who will listen) that there is not one right answer. Does that sound cliche'? Of course it does. I've said it to myself many times, but I don't know if I've ever really tried to believe it until now. There is no magical book that will tell me the "best" thing to do for every situation I will encounter for my little Jacob . . . and even if there was, there would be another book to refute that, and still it may just not be the right fit for our little family. I am the Mom, and I (or me and Robbie) will have to be the one to make the decision and live with the consequences, whatever they may be.

For my own sanity, I need to practice giving the audience of experts, doctors, authors and other parents in my head "the bird" and just do what feels right. I do have mother's intuition! I just need to learn to follow it, and stop worrying about what the thousands of authors of all the baby books in the world will think of what I'm doing. The anxiety I cause myself from obsessing over what everyone else thinks I should do is not worth it. My baby is happy (most of the time) and healthy and everything else needs to fit in with my comfort level and what is best for our little family.

My right answer may not be the same as someone else's right answer. And that's just fine. And maybe my "right" answer might actually be wrong, but at least I want to be able to live in my own skin and try things out for myself. Parenting is messy, and that is ok with me (or at least, I'm working on making it "ok" with me). Do I feel like I need to have a mass baby book burning? No. But I do need to take all the advice with a very large grain of salt and remember that I am a good mom, too, and I can make the final call . . . with or without "expert" approval. That feels good to say!

Brave Boy

2011-03-02T09:23:00.001-06:00

Jacob had a minor medical procedure yesterday.

He did great, I was the one who was emotional and worried. Figures.

Jacob charmed all the nurses and doctors, even though he wasn't able to eat from 4:30 to 8:30 am. I was so worried he would be extra cranky, but he was a champ.

I couldn't resist taking a few pictures of him in his mini hospital gown.

Everything turned out fine and we're all doing well. Which is great.

But that little hospital gown was just too cute to resist!

Warning Label

2011-02-24T10:30:00.001-06:00

You'd think this seemingly harmless bottle of air/fabric re-freshener would be easy to safely use. I did.

I had a friend coming over and I had forgotten to take out the trash. Rather than risk the smells from last night's dinner in the air, I thought I would use my trusty febreze and freshen up the kitchen. I went onto the living room and entrance way while I was at it.

I went back to the kitchen to give a quick smell test to the room - only to find that I must have gone a little crazy with the air freshener and the cheap, linoleum, slanted floor of my kitchen had turned into a febreze ice rink. I slipped a few times (very gracefully, I'm sure) before taking the final plunge to the floor, taking down the entire trash can with me. My knee was a little sore, but the worst part was picking back up all the trash that had spilled everywhere.

Febreze with caution, my friends.

Material Girl

2011-02-23T18:56:00.001-06:00

I have wanted Hunter Boots for quite some time.

Exhibit A:

However, these boots are pretty pricey. Since I get a Nordstrom gift card now and then, I decided I would save them up until I had enough for the purchase. One Christmas and two birthdays later, I was ready to make these boots mine! I purchased the boots with an almost embarrassing amount of gift cards. Unfortunately, after only four blissful days with my new boots the buckle on the side broke. So lame. Of course I am returning them for a new pair, but still, how disappointing.

I was telling this story to my sister JoAnna, who is very out-doorsy and not too into fashion trends and what is "in" (although this is not to say she isn't beautiful and fabulous). She asked me about the price of the boots, getting them at Nordstrom, where and how I was wearing them, blah, blah, blah and then suddenly stopped me.
"Wait a minute, you mean these are rain boots? Just rubber boots?"
"Yes."
Silence . . . "Ok."

I mean, when you put it like that, it is does sound a little silly to be paying so much for "just" rubber boots.

But I still want them.

Realization

2011-02-20T21:11:00.001-06:00

Yesterday I went out with some girlfriends to dinner. It was a hip, delicious Indian restaurant and a fun night away from cooking, dishes and my sweet little baby (who I love, but also enjoy a few hours to myself, away from diapers and spit up). Dinner was at 7:30, and I came back around 10:00 or so, feeling pretty good about myself and my night on the town. As I was coming in for the night, I passed three girls in my building's hallway headed out for the night out. Okay, I get it. I have passed from the realm of cool and young, into maturity. Not that I'm so "mature", but upon completing my 28th year (today!) I realize that I'm on the other side of young and wild.

And I'm fine with that. :)

Angels and Demons

2011-02-15T13:50:00.004-06:00

A couple days ago Jacob and I walked the four blocks to Jimmy Johns to get Robbie a gift card for Valentines Day (I am a hopeless romantic). The entrance had two doors, an outer and inner. The inner door opened toward the outer door, making it very hard for me and the stroller to come inside out of the cold. I had to basically do a split to keep the front door open and half of my stroller hanging out of it, while I held open the inner door and tried to push the stroller part way through to hold it open. I'm sure I looked a mess. It took me about three tries maneuvering the doors before I could get inside.

And meanwhile all three workers of the Jimmy Johns were just standing inside. Seriously? I don't need the red carpet rolled out for me and Baby Jacob, but can't you just help us in your stupid, counter-intuitive entry system? Ugh. I was so annoyed. There weren't even any customers. I know they were busy chopping lettuce or arranging mayonnaise packets or something, but really, you couldn't help me for 5 seconds? Rude.

Then on the way home, I was doing my best to choose my crosswalks carefully to avoid the crazy snow puddles (pictured right) which are everywhere. Some just couldn't be avoided, and with the snow piled up on all sides, sometimes you just have to figure out a way across the three feet deep, mini-lake. I had three people on two separate occasions help me across the monster puddles, including picking up my stroller and lifting it across. SO NICE!

It just goes to show you, when you think everyone in the world is an butt head, just wait a second, and someone nice is bound to come along.

PS If you think the title of this post is a bit dramatic, well, you may be right - BUT if you are watching a lady with a stroller struggle to get through a door for more than 10 seconds and just stand there . . . you are a demon. And if you randomly help someone carry their stroller across the Atlantic Ocean of puddles - you are my angel. Thank you, my sweet, sweet puddle angel.

Robert Culp

2011-02-11T10:24:00.004-06:00

My husband's name is Robert Culp, but so is this man's:

This shared name has only peaked mild interest at best over the course of our marriage. A lot of people our age don't even know who he is. Most notably, he was on a TV show called "I Spy" with Bill Cosby where is was a secret agent. (So he and Robbie not only share a name, but a love of acting and espionage.)

I probably wouldn't even know who this actor is, besides the fact that he and Robbie have the same name. Which is why I sometimes forget that people may be intrigued by my Robert Culp for this very reason . . . which is why this happened a few years ago:

I called the academic records at BYU to get some information, and of course gave the man on the other end of the phone my name, "Sarah Culp".

"Sarah Culp? . . . Are you related to Robert Culp by chance?"

"Yes, he's my husband!" (how fun! someone who knows Robbie)

"You are married to Robert Culp?"

"Yes." (why is this guy so skeptical?)

"You're married to Robert Culp?"

"Yeah." (seriously? what is his problem?)

"Really? You're really married to Robert Culp?"

"Yyyesss."

"Really??"

(the bells begin to ring) "Oh-- do you mean the actor Robert Culp? No. Not him. Sorry."

"Oh . . ."

"But my husband's name is Robert Culp. Just a different one."

"Uh-huh . . . okay . . . let me put you on hold."

Robert Culp (not Robbie) has since passed away. God rest his soul.

And thanks for the memories.

Half Birthday

2011-02-06T22:56:00.001-06:00

Jacob turned 6 months old yesterday.

He has developed many skills and talents - we are extremely proud.

He is very studious and loves to read.

The classic, Discovery Farms, is one of his favorites.

He is quite the little model, as well. What a looker!

Jacob loves to be naked and would make a great nudist - if only his Mom and Dad would let him live his dream . . . to his great dismay, we often require him to wear clothes.

He can reach his foot to his mouth . . . and chew on his big toe.

Can you do that? Didn't think so.

This boy can sit up - on HIS OWN! (pause for "oos" and "awws")

Sure he topples over now and then, but he is one strong little guy!

Jacob can also sit in a high chair and eat mashed peas. Mashed Peas, people!

He is a super star!

And of course, this little man knows how to cheer on his team!

I love this little dude. Love him.

Proof

2011-02-06T22:36:00.000-06:00

If I didn't live it - I may not believe it. The snow was wild here during our Blizzard! I don't mean to be dramatic, but serisouly, it was a lot of snow!

Sure the whole world was cancelled and closed down, but we still wanted to explore a little . . . and THEN we found out that the diner a block away was still open.

We ordered Blizzard Breakfast Take-out of course!

Walking out of our apartment . . .

Down our street . . .

A lot of other people had the same idea, and I walked right down the road since there were no cars to be found, except the odd emergency vehicle.

And I came back from the snow victorious!

Here We GO . . .

2011-02-05T21:08:00.000-06:00

The week has been crazy and busy. But nothing can get me down tomorrow - not a thing.

We are The Steelers and we are going to the Super Bowl!!

Buried Alive

2011-02-03T22:25:00.003-06:00

Yes, this is our street.
We narrowly survived the Chicago Blizzard of 2011.

Yes, our car got stuck when we tried to venture out the day after the big storm.

And yes, we learned our lesson. We finally got the car back in the garage and safely stowed away
until the snow melts or a plow decides to visit our street.

We are not holding our breath.

To be continued . . .

Oh My Gosh

2011-01-27T16:18:00.002-06:00

We had to change our plan for insurance . . . again . . . which now makes it a bazillion times. So I had to go to this office and do some paperwork and stuff. I had an appointment for 9:30am, but after an ill-timed feeding and a huge spit-up, we made it there at 9:50am.

The woman on the phone told me all the things I needed to bring with me - except Jacob's vaccination records. I know that sounds like I'm just making excuses: "Um, I didn't know I was suppose to bring that" (in a dumb, dumb voice), but seriously, she didn't tell me. I would have brought them.

But just then I remembered that I did have a little vaccination booklet in my diaper bag from my last appointment. I looked and looked and couldn't find it. Ugh. It disappeared. No luck. We will have to go back with the information later and we only half filled out our forms. Whatever. Everything takes 10,000 years and is super complicated.

Then we go home, Jacob takes a nap for 30 minutes and wakes up hating life. Nothing makes him happy. He screams for quite awhile and then, eventually, we are able to get back to normal. He decides he actually loves life and we start playing and he is laughing and laughing and having the best time. We are sitting on the floor, he's on my lap, when he wiggles and lurches forward and bangs his head on the floor. It was a loud thud. He only fell about 6 inches, but still, it had to hurt and of course - he's totally mad again. Real mad.

He finally goes down for another nap. I look in my purse for something and guess what I find. Yep - the immunization records. Dang it. (I mean, Damn it.)

Oh my Gosh! Sing it, Usher!

Update

2011-01-26T10:46:00.000-06:00

My Christmas tree is STILL up. Other decorations have come down, but we haven't quite tackled that tree yet. *Huff*

Who Are We?

2011-01-22T22:12:00.002-06:00

I don't know myself anymore. Last Sunday was the Golden Globes. Did we crank up the DVR? Did we watch it and cheer for all the new, latest, artsy, awesome movies that we made sure we watched over the past year? Did we watch any artsy, awesome movies this past year? No. We didn't. Who are we? Aren't we the movie-lovers? The "wanna be movie buffs"? Yes we are . . . but we added a baby . . . which equals no Golden Globes.

Are we nothing more than two overwhelmed, over-tired parents? Are we so focused on our little bundle of joy that we forget the importance of pop culture and award shows?

Yes. Yes we are.

Still love movies . . . but also have a kid.

Merry Christmas?

2011-01-18T22:36:00.004-06:00

Christmas is in December, right? That's why on December 1st (or right after Thanksgiving, whatever) we haul out the decorations so they can be up all month, and then taken down after New Years . . . right?

I ask because I see a LOT of Christmas trees still up in full force. Now, before you scold me for being so judge-y know that I, myself, still have a Christmas tree up . . . and all my other Christmas decorations for that matter (hey! I've been busy, lay off me). But, I am not lighting up my tree in the front window every night in the middle of January as if it is December the 23rd.

I mean, is that a thing? Do people leave their trees and lights up until the end of January - on purpose? (I mean, I do, but not on purpose.) I bet I have seen about 7 windows with lit up Christmas trees inside . . . in the past week!

Anyway, what is up with Christmas until Valentines? We can't bare to have empty windows in the winter?

This is a picture of our Christmas tree during the 2010 Christmas season, but it could have been taken yesterday since it still looks exactly the same. This is the week! Sorry my fellow Christmas-forever-folks, I'm out.

It's Time

2011-01-09T20:23:00.004-06:00

So, we are going "private" for our blog. There are lots of reasons, but mostly because we have this new cute little baby in our life.

I will send out an email to invite people to the blog, but if you want to make sure you aren't missed or maybe I don't know you read this, just leave a comment with your email or email me.

Thanks!

Christmas Carols

2010-12-25T12:56:00.008-06:00

It's Beginning to Look a lot Like Christmas

Twas the Night Before Christmas

There's No Place Like Home for the Holidays

Santa Baby

O Tannebaum

Jolly Old St. Nicholas

Baby It's Cold Outside

Merry Christmas!

Roll Over, Beethoven

2010-12-12T22:30:00.002-06:00

Yes, it happened.

Ride 'Em Cowboy

2010-12-05T21:24:00.010-06:00

We had quite the visit home last month!

It takes quite the table to fit all 10,000 of us . . . but we made it work.

Jacob made some new football friends,

watching his very first Steeler game with the boys.

After a riveting football game, Jacob was begging me to go for a "ride";

however, we were plum out of miniature horses so Margo had to do.

I know what your thinking - Where can I get a tiny saddle for my tiny dog?

Well, look no further than your very own American Girl Doll

collection where you can find the perfect size saddle for your shih tzu . . .

but you're going to have to find a way to get your own baby. I can't help with that.

What??

Like you wouldn't take advantage of a small baby, tiny saddle and mild mannered shih tzu -

It was the perfect storm.

Hmmm . . .

2010-11-19T19:46:00.003-06:00

There are a lot of crazy baby clothes. But when I saw this, I did a double-take.

That is ridiculous! . . .

Wait - or do I secretly love it?? . . .

No, no - get yourself together, Sarah. This is a pass. Definitely a pass.

Babies and Christmas are apparently a deadly combination. I may loose all common sense.

I'm going to need to keep a tight reign on my sanity this holiday season.

There is no good reason for Jacob to dress up like a mini-baby-Santa Claus.

Or is there?

Glad to be Dad

2010-11-18T17:32:00.005-06:00

Robbie is a great dad. Awesome even. And a pretty good husband, too . . . so this one's for you, Dad. Here are some reasons we love you:

1. Robbie does the dishes and laundry when called upon . . . frequently. He doesn't act like some primeval caveman. "Me work. You make dinner by 6:00 and raise baby". None of that nonsense, we're a team.

2. We're watching TV a little while ago:

"Hey, Robbie, Gwyneth Paltrow is on Glee."

"Gwyneth Paltrow?? The girl from Iron Man?"

Yes, Robbie . . . the girl. From Iron Man.

3. Jacob grew a half of an inch: "He's growing! Sometimes I wish he could stay small forever!" (That's just cute.)

4. Robbie turned Jacob's Bumbo into a Yoda hover chair . . . he was picking it up and making it fly all around the room. Complete with Yoda voice.

5. And you can't argue with this:

You Can't Fool Me

2010-11-11T22:53:00.007-06:00

I found myself watching the Country Music Awards the other night . . . I may not be the biggest country music fan, but I can appreciate the genre and have a handful of country artists on my iPod. I'm not ready to move to a farm, drink with the good ol' boys or profess to be a redneck woman, but I do feel qualified to make the following two remarks:

1. One thing that is essentially unique to country music is that you have to be a real musician to make it. You have to be able to actually sing to be successful in country music, and most artists play instruments and write their own songs. There isn't any autotune or stage pyrotechnics or barely-there outfits to hide a lack of musicianship. Whether or not you enjoy songs about a honkey-tonk or mama or cowboys, you can at least appreciate the voice singin' it to you.

2. Kid Rock. Gross. Since when is he officially country? Does he just think we can all magically forget about "BahWitDaBah"? (And by the way, if you click that link you can download "Bahwitdabah" straight to your cell phone!!) He is ridiculous and looks crazy . . . and I'm sorry, but if your first release is not even a real word, just a bunch of crazy syllables put together, then you've already lost me. There is no coming back from that, no matter how long you grow your greasy hair or how long you refuse to shave your sick-y facial hair. You can't fool me into taking you seriously as a musician . . . your name is still Kid Rock. Kid. Rock.

Do I sound harsh? May I remind you of this:

Sometimes I Get Ridiculous . . .

2010-11-09T21:21:00.008-06:00

And I make my baby pose for pictures in his mini-swim trunks

(which were purchased on clearance for $1.97 solely for decorative purposes)

And wear mini-sunglasses

I realize that Jacob is not a live baby doll for me to dress up and pose . . .

But then again . . . he is a live baby doll for me to dress up and pose.

Halloweenie

2010-11-02T15:52:00.008-05:00

I realize it is technically November, and it would have been more fun to have the date on this post read "October 31st", but as a self-proclaimed Halloween-Enthusiast, I had to share our Culp Halloween fun regardless. . .

I seriously love Halloween . . . a lot.

Which is why it exploded all over our house:

We had Vampire-jams for Jacob

And an "official" Halloween outfit

But the icing on the cake was the Fairytale Princess and the Daring Knight . . .

. . . fighting off the Fire-breathing, Ferocious Dragon

It all turned out pretty well, in my opinion

So, yes, I am crazy about Halloween, and maybe I even go a little overboard . . .

but there's a lot more Halloween crazy where this came from - a LOT more.

Excuse me . . .

2010-10-23T21:24:00.004-05:00

But this guy is super cute.

A few random points of interest . . .

2010-10-17T19:52:00.008-05:00

1) Look at Mr. Houdini here . . . thinks he's so clever busting out of his swaddle. Well, little man, if you think that will deter me from putting you in your "baby straight jacket" you are wrong. Jacob - 1, Mom - 0, but I will be back. I'll be back.

2) Check out this car. Who do you think it belongs to? A huge burly lumber jack?

No. It's my sister JoAnna. She's beautiful and educated and awesome . . . and a cameo crazed huntress. (Did I mention she has killed a deer? And Robbie is a big fan of the deer jerky.)

3) I tried on this shirt in Gap the other day:

I was asking the sales associate's opinion and he asked what my profession was. I panicked a little inside! What am I? A Mom. That's a profession, and I am 100% ok with that. I know this to be true in my head . . . but what will this stylish, sexually ambiguous, salesman think of that? Probably nothing, but I still was anxious about admitting my current job - for which the required dress code consists of sweats and t-shirts. Apparently I can't purchase a relatively "nice" shirt without an official professional outlet??

"I'm a teacher!" I blurted. Which is technically true. I am still a certified teacher on maternity leave. However, I should be fine saying that I stay at home with my child, as well. At least now I'm prepared for my next encounter buying professional-ish clothes . . . I'm a Mom . . . and I'll dress up whenever I darn well please.

Stupid

2010-10-04T08:35:00.006-05:00

A few days ago, Jacob and I decided to go visit a friend. We packed ourselves up and headed for the car, which is in a parking garage about a half a block away. I put Jacob in his car seat and then put my purse and other belongings on the passenger seat, ready for a speedy departure. I then put his stroller in the trunk and went around to my door to get things rolling . . . But tragedy struck! I went to open the driver's side door to find it was locked. Ugh. I must have only unlocked Jacob's door when I put him in, I thought. Nope. All the doors were locked. All the doors locked and my keys, phone and purse on the passenger seat, safely inside . . . along with my baby. Needless to say, I panicked.

I didn't want to leave little Jacob in the car while I searched for help, but I also was stuck in the garage with no way to get the car unlocked. I felt the tears in the corners of my eyes and thought about what I would say for my acceptance speech as the worst mother ever. I ran around the corner of the garage, still having the car in sight, to see if I could find anyone to help. The laundry room is right next to the garage, and LUCKILY there was someone in there doing their laundry. I knocked on the window, told my pitiful story and asked if I could use her phone. Again, fate was on my side, and she was SO nice to let me use her phone and wait with me.

I called the non-emergency 311 number, but hung up after I heard "Your wait time is . . ." No! I couldn't wait. (Meanwhile, Jacob is just looking at me, peacefully, through the window.) I call 911 and tell the operator that I am a big dummy and locked my kid in the car. She was very quick to tell me that she would send the fire department on its way. "The fire department? Oh, I just need the car to be --" "They will be there shortly," she interrupted. The whole fire department?? Surely they have a small jeep for situations like these. A huge fire truck coming down my one-way street with sirens blaring is all that I need to really make me bask in the utmost embarrassed of the situation . . . and that is exactly what I got.

At least the firemen were very nice and kind and unlocked the car with ease. The whole ordeal was probably about 15 minutes, which is also just about how long it took for the huge fire truck to back down my one-way street with me following behind, head hung in shame. It was all quite humiliating, but at least no permanent damage was done. Well, except for my ego perhaps.

In honor of the brave men who saved Baby Jacob:

I Didn't Know I Was Pregnant

2010-09-15T17:17:00.004-05:00

That statement is incredibly crazy to me . . . which is why TLC has made a fairly successful, poorly reenacted show I Didn't Know I Was Pregnant. This show is ridiculous and shocking (and for that matter, ridiculously shocking) in more ways than one. I just can't understand how you don't know you're freakin' pregnant.

Now, I will give you, that most of the time, these women say they gained little to no weight, which could throw you off. I mean, I gained what seemed like a gazillion pounds, so I was glad that I, at least, had the excuse that I was pregnant (retaining 15 pounds of retained water, on top of my preggo weight gain was no picnic). But still, there are other signs, people! It just seems so ludicrous that a entire child can grow in your uterus and you are completely clueless until the "big day". Whatever. (And as a side note, if I did not know I was pregnant until I was delivering a child, I surely would NOT go on TV and have bad actors play out the crazy situation while I was chatting away about it like it just so normal to not know you are having a baby until there is one literally coming out of you. I mean, aren't you embarrassed by that sort of thing?)

Anyway - the whole point of that little rant was that, after watching several episodes of "I Didn't Know I Was Pregnant" with my family on vacation this summer, my Dad told me about his very own "I Didn't Know I Was Pregnant" adventure. (No, he wasn't pregnant and didn't know it, don't worry.)

My Dad works as an anesthesiologist, so he gives many epidurals for women in labor. I guess a couple months ago a girl and her mom came in to the ER, as the girl (in her early twenties) was complaining of stomach cramps. My dad said the girl was a little chubby, perhaps, but not so big that you would not notice something of this magnitude (like a BABY inside you). But yet, the doctor had to inform her that after they did some blood work and an ultra sound: "Honey, you're 8 months pregnant and you're going to have a baby tonight!" My dad also mentioned that he overheard the mom say to the daughter, "Well, I guess we're not going to Vegas this weekend . . ."

Yeah- I guess you're not.

Mom?

2010-08-30T12:56:00.004-05:00

It is weird. It's definitely weird to think of myself as a mom. I feel very young. I feel nervous. I feel overwhelmed. It's just such a different way to see myself. One minute I'm just some young person, going about my life, basically doing as I please - and then BAM! - Now my life is very monopolized by this one little, tiny person.

That said, I also REALLY love it! Just the small little moments I've had over the last three weeks holding him, cuddling, feeding, rocking, bathing, seeing him with Robbie . . . even calming him and waking up in the middle of the night have been really wonderful - totally stressful at times - but honestly and truly wonderful, too.

I've never been a big "baby" person. I don't know how to say that without sounding like a some kind of a jerk, but really, I've never been a person that needs/wants to hold babies or even the person that wanted a baby until about a year ago. I always knew I wanted to be a mom, but I didn't feel truly ready to take care of a baby until just a few months before we got pregnant.

So what's the point to all this? This is the point: I'm really enjoying this more than I thought I would. Sure, there have been tears from both Jacob AND me . . . but I just can't imagine life without him. This little guy is so sweet. And it's only been 31/2 weeks since he was born, but it seems like he was always here.

Okay. I'm done being gushy . . . for right now at least. I'm a mom! Yikes! and Hooray!

Diagnosis: Candy OD

2010-08-26T11:25:00.006-05:00

This summer I came upon Ruthe, my little sister, in this pitiful state*.

Do they have 12 step groups for 13 year olds?

Upon viewing the clearly conclusive evidence, Ruthe claimed she must have "knocked over the candy dish in her sleep".

Uh-huh . . . Ruthe, admitting you have a problem, is the first step.

*And doesn't it just make it that much more fabulous that she is wrapped in this crazy feather-boa-blanket thing? How tragically hollywood . . . which is right up Ruthe's alley :)

Due Date

2010-08-23T17:23:00.018-05:00

So today is my due date . . . however, our son has been with us for two and a half weeks! The day Jacob was born I did have a few moments of panic as I realized that he was coming and I did not have the 3 weeks I thought I had - but I also have enjoyed watching my feet return to their normal, un-swollen size and watching the scale go down, not up - plus it has been pretty great hanging out with our new little family. The past few weeks have been full of adventures - maybe not your typical adventures - but everything is definitely new and exciting . . . and a little scary!!

We got to hang out with family

(Jo and Josh got to stop by on their cross-country trip - HOORAY!)

Liz was there from the first "peeing of the pants" to the birth of our little one!

I'm glad I had her there to keep me somewhat calm when I realized I was going to deliver this little guy 3 weeks early. She thought she was going to be helping in my classroom, but she ended up doing a lot more! - thank goodness!!

The hospital photographer tried to send little Jacob down the river in a Moses Basket. Jacob was not on board, as you can see from this picture, so I put a stop to that.

Then we made the big trek home from the hospital - trying to figure it all out on our own.

Jacob didn't seem too worried sleeping in his pack n' play . . .

Liz and Olivia were here, not only for my water breaking and Jacob's birth,

but then also helped us settle in at home . . . It was really nice to have tons of support.

Our first car trip (to the doctor's) . . . And of course I was worried about this little peanut

sinking into the car seat and disappearing. Look how little he is!

We had our first bath . . .

Mom came to visit (THANK GOODNESS!)

Jacob was born on Thursday, Mom was here by Monday, and not a moment too soon. Sometimes you just really need a mom,when you're trying to be one . . . Yikes! :)

And then my brother Steven came to visit on his way to BYU.

He also brought some special stickers for Jacob . . .

Uncle Stevie!

Our first walk in the stroller . . . big moments for a little guy!

Way to go, Dad!

And breaking in the new crib. He seems to like it just fine.

And that's pretty much what's happening in our lives right now. A lot of feeding, peeing, pooping, burping, strolling, worrying, laughing, crying . . . I pretty much love it.

It Started Out Like Any Other Day . . .

2010-08-14T17:47:00.004-05:00

I woke up. I got dressed. I went into work - it was the first day back to school. Liz and Olivia had been visiting since my husband essentially abandoned me for a family reunion and I was 37 1/2 weeks of pregnant - nobody really felt good for me to be alone . . .

SO - we went to school, and the sisters came too, since I wasn't very capable of building my usual desk towers to hang up posters above the chalkboard or above the computer ledge or lift big boxes of books and prizes and other scholastic junk, while nine months pregnant. As we were walking in the door - and I literally mean as we were walking in the door, I turned to Liz: "I'm peeing my pants!"

"You're peeing your pants?"

"Yes - right now!"

"What are you going to do?"

"I don't know!"

It was shocking and humorous all at the same time. So of course I ran into bathroom, and low and behold, it was not what I thought. This was not your normal, run of the of mill, peeing your pants. This was . . . something else.

So I turned right around, walked into the main office and stopped the secretary dead in her tracks of welcoming me "back" to school and told her that I was actually leaving school because my water had broke, and just like the movies, "it was time".

Liz did an excellent job of driving me around and trying to keep my calm, while I called my mom, and Robbie and the doctor: "My water broke!" This was all quite unexpected as it was only August 4th and I wasn't due until August 23rd. I was technically full term so there was no need for real alarm, besides the fact that I wasn't at all mentally prepared for the big L-word . . . and I don't mean love . . . (Fortunately, Robbie had just come back into town the night before- lucky for me, and lucky for him!)

There is a happy ending here, though- my water broke at 8:30 AM, we were admitted to the hospital about 1:00 PM and then Jacob Allen Culp was BORN on August 5th, at 12:37 AM (of course with the aid of a dream-like epidural) weighing in at 7 lb. 14 oz., 20.5 inches long and stinkin' cute and healthy.

We sure do love this little guy!!

Once I Was Pregnant . . .

2010-07-30T22:42:00.004-05:00

Well, I still am . . . but by request of my long-distance, beloved family, who hasn't had the privilege to see my bulbous tummy in person . . . here is the picture journey of my "growth":

About 20 weeks - just found out I was having a boy!

During our anniversary "stay-cation", rocking the maternity jeans, about 22 weeks

Around 28 weeks at the Pittsburgh baby shower . . . and pretty popped (or so I thought!)

Preggo Pose before the shower . . . little did I know how far this would go . . .

"Monster" baby shower in Chicago - about 30 weeks

In Utah, yet another baby shower filled with love, at 32 weeks

Hiking with that big, big belly . . . getting swollen feet, hands and face

At the BYU Creamery (every pregnant woman's dream)

And then the final pregnant vacation at the beach - at 36 weeks - four weeks to go!

So now I'm just about 37 weeks . . . it could be any day now! But, with my luck, I will probably have to wait it out until the bitter end . . . exponentially swelling and feeling uncomfortable, but also growing with anticipation and excitement to welcome this little guy into our lives.

It's crazy how a pregnancy will take over your life.

Go figure.

Why?

2010-07-28T15:26:00.003-05:00

I'm sorry, but I think that Sugar Ray is one of the stupidest bands ever. Wait - you know what - I'm not sorry . . . their songs are repetitive and annoying. So WHY are they still on the radio? I have had to change the radio station several times this summer because some random radio DJ still insists on playing this song. Why? Does anyone actually sit and listen to the annoying, throat-scratching vocals of Mark McGrath? Are we that hard up for songs to play on the radio that we need to result to this? I think not.

Ugh - judge for yourself (and trust me, it pained me to even give this video a hit on youtube):

Breast-feeding 101

2010-07-21T16:50:00.004-05:00

You'd think because I am the oldest of 11 children that I know a ton about babies - I guess in some respects, I do . . . but then again, I have never given birth, breast-fed, stayed awake with an infant all night, or been the primary care-giver for another living thing. (I mean, even with "my cat", my mom still did a lot of the feeding and litter box changing.) So, even though I do have experience with babies and kids, I still feel pretty anxious about everything that is coming my way in the next month or so.

To soothe some of my anxiety, I decided to go to a Breast-feeding class to shed some light on the subject. It was funny to see all the semi-clueless, young-ish moms-to-be huddled around the presenter begging her to show us how to work our own bodies. (Because, honestly, apparently it isn't always that easy.)

The first blow was that the lactation consultant that was suppose to teach the class had an emergency and didn't show up. Bummer. So we watched a video of moms enjoying the true bliss that is breast-feeding. Seriously, these ladies were smiling and laughing and crying happy tears about the joy of breast-feeding . . . which might be true sometimes, but I want someone to keep it real! I want to hear about what to do if my baby won't latch on, and what to do for sore nipples and what I should do if I start crying tears of pain, instead of joy. What then?? Luckily, after the video was over, we did have a good presenter, that although she wasn't a lactation consultant, did have some good information for us that was a little more "real".

At the end we had question and answer time, which at first was slow to get started. However, we did have a spicy mother-to-be in the back row that got the ball rolling with some candid questions - then we were able to wrap everything up quite nicely, with all our questions answered (except the questions we don't know we have until we have a newborn baby in our arms).

Afterwards, I went up to the woman who really got the questions going: "Thanks for starting the Q&A back there. You know, sometimes it's hard to be the first to ask the questions."

"Oh yeah, I mean, I just want to know what to do! All I'm saying is that this sh** better work!"

Although I was slightly surprised by her word choice when referring to breast-feeding a baby, I have to agree: This shiz better work.

Let's Start at the Very Beginning . . .

2010-07-21T15:54:00.002-05:00

A very good place to start!

Yes - it has been a month since I have actually posted . . . I admit it. Swollen-pregnancy fingers just don't type as fast as you want them to!

The spring/summer has been a blur:

(With a few pictures to come once I get a new memory card reader)

May - my dear Uncle Bruce passed away - which gave way to lots of family time as we celebrated my his life, Stevie's (my little, 6'3 brother) graduation, Baby shower in Pittsburgh

June - More baby shower fun in Chicago, Robbie's birthday, School ended (finally!), visit from my sister Eleanor, family reunion in Utah

July - Continued Utah visit, Even MORE baby shower festivities, back to Chi-town, set up nursery, Church Girls Camp, Holden Beach, NC for some R&R . . . which brings me to now

Robbie and I are currently at the beach, which is awesome. And I am currently ridiculously swollen from the knee down and from the elbow out, which sucks. Fat fingers, fat feet - no fun.

However, it is worth mentioning that I am now 35 1/2 weeks pregnant - almost to term - which means that this little guy will be here soon!

I lied - accidently

2010-06-27T10:39:00.004-05:00

Remember when I said I had more to post and I would do it soon? I lied . . . apparently. I know that my blog has, of late, metaphorically translated into something like this:

I plan to come back from Blog-Ghost-Town soon . . . hopefully :)

Back!

2010-06-12T23:11:00.003-05:00

It's been awhile since I've posted . . . it's just been busy around Casa de Culp.

I would say the major happenings are as follows:

1) It's hot, and I'm only getting MORE pregnant (funny how that happens), which means that it is becoming increasingly more difficult to keep my ankles to a reasonable size and keep myself from over-heating.

2) We drove back to Pittsburgh 3 times in the past 3 weeks. It has been great to see and be with my family so much; but, it was also SO much driving. Whew!

3) School is almost out and I can't wait one more second - although I'm going to have to wait 7 more days until it is officially over. I just have to hang on for dear life - I hope I can make it! :)

4) Pictures in the process: I have a few photos from a few events from this past month that I need to post. They will be coming soon.

5) Planning trips - this summer will be quite full . . . my sister, Eleanor, is coming to stay with us for the week, then we will go to Utah for a family reunion and baby shower, then a possible visit to our church's "Girl's Camp" (Of which I am the director- yikes! - but, there is no freakin' way that I am staying over night in the August heat, 9 months pregnant. No way. Planning I can do; camping with a baby inside me, I can NOT do). Then a trip to the beach with the family and back to Chicago in time to teach for a few weeks and then bring this baby boy into the world.

. . . More to come as I gather some photos to post, the motivation, and the time . . .

Not to Complain . . .

2010-05-25T16:26:00.017-05:00

(And when you hear someone say something like "not to complain . . . " you know some complaining is about to happen. It's like starting a sentence with "Not to be rude . . .")

So here it is:

Complaint #1 - The Heat

I love summer, under normal conditions. I have not enjoyed the recent heat wave (90 degrees!) in Chicago for 2 reasons. First, I am 6 months pregnant and that adds a layer of discomfort to just about everything I do in this heat and humidity. I hate to turn on the A/C in May, but I hate to turn into a sweaty, bulbous mess even more.

Second, the heat is frying my students' brains. I have had 5 students suspended in the last 2 days. Whether they are bringing drugs to school, fighting or just plain acting crazy, they have got to go. I don't enjoy having a student suspended one bit - but I do enjoy order and learning in my class . . . so now you can go home and act crazy with your Mom. Ugh.

Complaint #2 - Endless School Year

It kind of sounds like part two of complaint #1, but there are 16 school days left in the year. 16 more days stuck in traffic on the way home. That is just too much. It just is. June 18th?? Who are you kidding? Trust me, we are ALL ready for no more homework, or books or especially teachers' dirty looks. (Although, one of my kids told me that he likes it when I get "mad" and raise my eyebrow like The Rock. Maybe he will miss those dirty looks after all.)

Last Complaint - Ambiguity

With all these school budget cuts, I still don't know if I have a job yet for next year, and that really annoys me. I just want to know! Since all job cuts are made purely by seniority, I know I'm on the chopping block, but all this waiting is just too much. Hasn't anyone heard of planning? I guess they haven't at Chicago Public Schools and love keeping us in suspense. Just tell me already.

I know, I know . . . this is so negative. But I feel a little better - I think. There are lots of things I'm thankful for, too: air conditioning, family, the Gospel, poetry projects to occupy my students, a nice husband to give me foot massages and the soon-to-be new addition to our family . . . but I'm also a little pissed off about complaints 1-3, too!! Ugh.

I told you I was popped . . .

2010-05-20T12:41:00.004-05:00

And the flow-y shirt isn't really doing me any favors, either :)

Can you believe we're going to be parents? Yowza!

Popped!

2010-05-18T10:55:00.003-05:00

One of my students said to me, with a big smile on her face, "Mrs. Culp, it seems like your tummy gets a little bigger every day!"

Thanks. Thanks a lot.

The thing is, I think she thought she was being both cute and funny (and maybe even complimentary).

The other thing is . . . I think she's right. Yikes!

(Pictorial evidence soon to come)

Just when you thought it was safe . . .

2010-05-13T23:09:00.004-05:00

As soon as I think I've seen everything the "urban lifestyle" of South Chicago has to offer, I find a new delight. Allow me to start at the beginning:

With the increase in warm weather, there are a few ice cream trucks that circle the school, like sharks at feeding time, at 2:45 pm exactly. These trucks aren't your average popsicle and pre-packaged sundae cone trucks- they have delicious soft serve cones, sundaes and shakes - for a buck!

So anyway, one warm spring day, my colleague and I walked out to the truck to taste the delicious soft serve for ourselves, and I noticed that there was something odd about the truck's windshield . . . there were 4 bullet holes! I mean, I know the neighborhood is bad, but seriously, who wants to shoot up the ice cream man? Are people that hard up that they will kill for ice cream, or is the uniform and funny hat that offensive?

All I know is, if the ice cream truck isn't safe from a drive by, none of us are. None of us are.

5 Years

2010-05-06T22:15:00.002-05:00

Last weekend was our 5 year anniversary . . .

As you can see, it was both lavish AND delicious . . .

Hooray for us!!

April 29, 2005

I'm Famous

2010-04-21T01:07:00.007-05:00

That's right: FAMOUS. My good friend Alicia scored some front row tickets to Oprah (yeah, that Oprah) with her witty and amazing 100-words or less essay skills. And not just to any old Oprah show, but the "Date Night" movie show with Steve Carell, Tina Fey, Tracy Morgan and Betty White (aired on April 6th). It was a good day to get a shot at my 15 minutes of fame.

Our day with Oprah went something like this . . .

Since we were going to be witness to Tina and Steve's promotion of their new movie, we got to see Date Night before it was in theaters, as part of Oprah's VIP audience. I had pretty low expectations for the movie (even though I'm seriously in love with Tina Fey-- in love) due to the plot predictability outlined in the previews- but it was funny enough. We ate free popcorn and guzzled free pop while watching the movie at 8:00am as a special favor to Oprah.

Then we were whisked back to the studio on buses (luxury buses, with diamond windows and plush, polar bear fur seats) and given lunch (roast duck, with black truffles, sprinkled with eatable 14K gold and hand-churned ice cream from Switzerland). Only the best for Oprah.

Alicia and I were called as part of the special VIP audience that got to sit the first few rows for the taping (this part is actually true) and got a great, close-up view at all the celebrities (they looked just like people!!).

Tina and Steve were great as usual and it was really neat to see them in person (and from only about 20 feet away!). They pretty much look the same as on TV- you really can't hide anymore with HD. (We know how much foundation you wear, TV celebs!)

Tracy Morgan was semi-crazy, yet lovable, as usual . . . but off-camera he and Oprah definitely had the best "gems" of the afternoon:

Tracy: "Yeah, it was so great to see Tina, she means a lot to me. Her and my son. It's like I know how Harriett Tubman feels now . . ."

Oprah: "Uh-huh . . . and that reminds me of Maya Angelou's new book, No one can do it alone. Whom of course I'll be seeing this Sunday for Easter dinner."

A) Tracy, as much as I love you, you are not Harriett Tubman.

B) Of course Maya Angelou is coming to dinner at your place, Oprah. Of course . . . Duh.

We didn't win a free car, but all in all, it was still a great day. Being on the A-List is hard, but someone's got to do it! (Thanks again, Alicia!)

And although anyone could walk up to Harpo Studios and take a picture next to this sign, not just anyone could have their faces scanned in the crowd, on national television, 25 minutes and 31 seconds into the Oprah show.

(And P.S. As I'm typing away at this blog, Oprah's sacred name keeps turning up on spell check. Her name hasn't been added to the dictionary? Doesn't she have her own dictionary?)

Out of the Mouth of Babes

2010-04-14T18:46:00.002-05:00

I recently decided to tell my students my "big" news . . . I was prompted a few days ago by some very thoughtful and honest comments, such as:

"Mrs. Culp," while starting straight at my stomach, "I think you've gained a few pounds."

And, again with the tummy stare, "Wow, your stomach is getting big."

Thanks, kids. They really don't miss anything. When I did finally tell my students I was pregnant, they were very cute about it. Very excited at the prospect of a little-Mrs.-Culp-baby-boy. That made up for all the potential "fatty" comments. (What if I wasn't pregnant and did just gain a few pounds? That would have been a big blow to the ego! However, I suppose the bright side is that I don't usually look like I have a beer gut, so there was a noticeable difference when a child started to grow in my belly.)

Anyway, so once I did drop the bomb, of course there was one girl who piped up, "Oh! Mrs. Culp! That be good you pregnant, I was 'bout to be thinking that was your normal stomach!"

Thanks again, kids . . . and way to go on the grammar usage I've been teaching you.

St. Aldi

2010-04-11T15:35:00.005-05:00

Robbie mentioned to friend that we bargain grocery shop at Aldi. To which her response was, "White people shop at Aldi?"

Well, yes we do. At least we do. I have learned what things are worth the bargaining and what items need to be purchased at a "real" grocery store. However, I do think our frugality has benefited us over the long run. If we like to go to the movies and out to dinner and buy new clothes occasionally (okay, that's mostly just me) and have a newish HD TV (that one is all Robbie) then we have to give somewhere.

Just yesterday we bought 49 items (about 2 weeks worth of dinners/groceries) for $107.33-- that's pretty good! I mean, I have to make other trips for fresh produce and such, but we've got the crux of the groceries. (crux?? oh well.)

Robbie is obsessed with Aldi (as he is with anything that is incredibly cheap-- often with little care for quality-- unless it is electronics), so thanks to him, I have gotten on board the cheapie train (yes, that is an actually train).

So- maybe it's a little ghetto . . .

but maybe we don't care.

A First . . .

2010-04-11T15:29:00.002-05:00

Since we are having a BOY . . . I couldn't help but make my very first baby purchase.

(Thanks BabyGap sales rack)

I can't believe there will be a little body to fit inside this!

Crazies

2010-04-07T22:04:00.002-05:00

Public Transportation is a true joy. Here are a few of the "gems" that I happened to pick up on the train yesterday:

(Man to woman) "I don't think there is such a thing as routine brain surgery."

(Woman #1 on cell phone) "You crazy . . . you crazy . . . you crazy . . ." repeated NINE times

(Mother to young son) "Well, I don't know how far your father's even gonna get, since we got his wallet!"

(Elderly women on cell phone) "Oh!! This phone's on speaker - and I can't turn it off!!"

(Woman #2 on cell phone) "Look, I don't mean to hurt your feelings, but little-miss-princess-I have-to-get-my-toes-painted is going to have to go. You can pay me the money later."

(Two adolescent girls) "Blue is not her color." "No, she just can't pull blue off."

What is going on? Why is everyone so eager to share their business with total strangers? Where is little miss princesses suppose to go and who isn't able to wear blue . . . ever?? Really, someone can't wear the color blue at all?? Also, why do we have to say the same thing over and over again? I get it - he's crrrazy. I got it the first 5 times. And did that mother take the dad's wallet as a threat/punishment or was it just by chance, it sounded rather suspicious. I agree with that man, I wouldn't call any brain surgery routine, and I forgive the sweet grandma for not knowing the intricacies of speaker phone. I mean- I guess its just all in a day on the CTA (Chicago Transit Authority).

Pros and Cons

2010-04-05T14:33:00.003-05:00

I'm pregnant. Now, I know everyone dreams of growing their very own alien inside their body, gaining 30+ pounds and having to poop in front of multiple medical staff during labor - but let me tell you, it's not all fun and games like you may think. (And also, I would like to point out that finding a cute and chic pregnancy picture, like the one above, is only available in cartoon form for a good reason . . . sadly, to my dismay, it is not reality.)

Pregnancy Pros:

* Getting to pick out baby names (for a real purpose, not just for a jr. high diary entry)

* Sympathy from husband

* The need for a massage

Pregnancy Cons:

* Throwing up

* Getting fat

* Getting poked and kicked from the inside

* Swollen feet

* Hating all Mexican food

* No delicious, cold turkey sandwiches

* Hot tubs are off limits

* Belly jiggles (in a weird way) when running

* My pants don't fit

* My boobs are HUmongous (no - its not a plus)

* My sense of smell is completely out of control - nothing escapes my attention

* Having to pee 24/7 (then having dreams about going pee and almost wetting the bed)

* Headaches

* Stretch marks (or potential of - come on Shea Butter!!)

* I WILL have to experience labor (my ultimate fear)

And one last Pro . . .

* We will get a baby out of all of this - so that really makes it all worth it. Which is good, 'cause honey, the rest of this pregnancy business ain't doing it for me.

Baby, you know your momma must really love you!

Something Awesome . . .

2010-04-03T20:48:00.007-05:00

Think of it as a delicious snack: reading + oreos

Think of it as a wild ride: reading + a rodeo

What Readeo actually means is reading + video . . . but I say go with whatever 'floats your boat'. This is seriously such a great tool for anyone who wants to connect with a child long distance. You can video chat, while interactively reading a book. You not only keep the kid's attention, but you get to actually engage in a meaningful activity with your [fill in child of choice]. It's such an awesome site, I think everyone with a munchkin they love, out of shouting range, should try this out. If you skype, you are already half way there . . . and if you don't, it's not hard to figure out. Traveling parents and long distance relatives will love this! You can even try a free trial on the website.

Click here to experience readeo yourself!

Happy Reading! :)

Fabulous

2010-03-19T18:56:00.003-05:00

So I love vintage . . .

And I found this awesome 50's style coat . . .

I wonder who wore this . . . and to where?

Some business man's wife on the way to the Rotary Club?

A fancy neighborhood Tupperware party?

Perhaps a 1956 New Year's party at the "club"?

Jackie Kennedy?

Well, I'm wearing it wherever I want.

I love it.