Baby Laughs

Make the world go 'round.

Harvest Festival

Rather than crashing the corn maze again we decided to hit up the harvest festival today that North End Organic Nursery (old Hillside Nursery) was having. Addie has been a bit under the weather so I didn't want a major outing, but wanted to at least get her out of the house and she was dying to go. Corn maze seemed like a lot of work and I didn't feel like packing her AND Bubby through the whole thing. The boys (that's Loren and Ryan) went golfing this morning, but were done by the time we got ready to go, so they came too (not by their choice). Although she was adamant to go, I think our timing was off because Addie really needed a nap. Thus we didn't stay long and she didn't play much.

She did sport her costume. Have you ever seen a sadder butterfly/garden fairy?

We of course had to get photos with the giant chair. Here are Ryan and Cassie.

And me, Bubby, and Cassie. Would Addie get on the chair? Absolutely not.

She was stuck to Daddy the whole time (hence the reason I made him come).

Bubby did do a bit of swinging. And gagging himself (the norm).

I really thought cotton candy would make it all better. She did like it (this was her first experience), but really was a bit of a crab the entire day. Mommy and Daddy's patience was about lost there for a bit (I'm feeling rejuvenated now that she's sleeping).

So that was our Saturday. A cranky toddler, Scentsy sniffing, some swinging (they had a bounce house, mind you) and cotton candy, some pizza and beer, a bit of gabbing, some knitting (finished Hayden's hat -- will take pics tomorrow), and some football and baseball watching. Hoping to do some cleaning tomorrow along with Chicago Connection (yes, pizza two days in a row -- oh darn) and really should do some homework (ugh).

I just had to post this because I love how he just crashes out. Precious.

Reflective Learning: Numero Uno

I think you may be able to classify this as a new buzzword -- basically a way of saying taking some time to think about (reflect) on a learning experience. I've decided to try some of this with my students this year. One of the things I find with students is that they get so focused on the day-to-day tasks that they rarely (if ever) take time to stop and reflect on their learning experience. Supposedly this has a positive effect and I can guess why -- so I'm requiring they write once a week in a reflective learning journal. What I was really hoping the students would do is 1) make connections between classes, 2) get out some frustrations and reflect on struggles, and 3) take some time to acknowledge their hard work. Every class our students take is required for a specific reason, and outside of core, that reason is to train them for the workforce and to take the RHIT exam. So, you can imagine, many of the classes overlap in places. However, when students are "in the trenches" I think sometimes they overlook this and put dividers up between classes. I'm hoping that by requiring them to reflect on everything they may make some connections. Most of my students are going to school full-time while working and many have families -- that's a lot of stress and they need to blow off some steam. I'm hoping a journal will help them do this in a healthier manner than saying something outloud in the heat of the moment that they might regret later. This semester is a hard time and the students work really hard. I know for myself, sometimes putting accomplishments in writing can encourage me to give myself the pat on the back that I deserve. So, to my point (for those of you reading this wondering why the heck I'm blogging about it) -- I've decided if I'm going to require it of my students, I should do it too. So this is my first reflective learning blog entry and I will try to do them weekly, just as I require of my students.

Since this is my first, I want to be a bit general and just reflect on my role as a teacher (which is a constant learning experience) and as a student currently (as opposed to the student I used to be). First, my teaching reflection. I love my job. And I'm not just saying this because a student might read it (I'm going to be sure to share this with them, as they are sharing theirs with me). Someone just the other day questioned if anyone looks forward to going to work and I said that do. I love education and am incredibly passionate about it. I really do enjoy the HIM field and liked my first job (in the field) as a coder, but I remember feeling like I needed something with more meaning. I wanted to feel as though I made a difference. And although my students may hate me right now (as I bombard them with homework and exams), I know that I'm making a difference in their future. Maybe not personally (meaning that I don't take full credit and am by no means the only or main catalyst), but I am helping them achieve a goal that will hopefully help them fulfill themselves. It's so great getting that email stating "I got a job!" or "I passed the RHIT!" or "I'm coming back to school." I love running into graduates and hearing what they're doing. Now there are definitely times when I'm a little down on work (like right now, only because I'm behind) and there are certain aspects I don't like (like boring meetings or seeing a student struggle), but overall I really love it. And it's not just a "job" to me. I don't go for a paycheck. I don't clock in and clock out. I live my job constantly. I'm always thinking about what I need to be doing, about new ideas for the classroom, about things I promised students that I forgot to do (like post a study guide). It used to consume me almost entirely, but I've done much better since having the kids of separating work and home. I feel like I have a perfect balance right now (although I'll admit work does suffer a bit more than it used to - but I've found that, for the most part, if I'm flexible with my students, they are flexible with me).

That perfect balance, however, does not seem to be carrying to my life as a student. I used to be SUCH a good student. Most would probably call me a brown-noser. I always went to class, I paid attention (never slept), I studied, I did all my homework, I was often the first one done, I got great grades...not quite so anymore. The nerd in me won't let me entirely slack off, but I'm so much different than I used to be. I put everything until the last minute. I haven't even logged on to my class for a week (and we have continuous discussion boards). I have a literature review due at the end of the month that I've only barely started on. But the craziest part is -- I'm still ahead of most of the students in the class. I think we're all in that crazy boat of working full-time, most with families, while trying to go to school. I have a new appreciation for my students now that I have children too. I had the luxury of being a traditional undergraduate -- no kids, only worked a couple days a week, lived either on or very near campus. It is so much work to balance everything and it often means at least one has to suffer.

I suppose my main reflection points this week are 1) I love teaching and am incredibly thankful for the path that has been placed in front of me (this is not at all the destiny I chose for myself -- I was simply given opportunities and was thankfully smart enough to take them) and 2) being a student is a lot of work and those of you who are students should give yourselves a pat on the back and those of you who know a student should really be proud and show/tell them that.

Til next time...

Drowning

I was doing so good...then a couple days of being sick and now I can't seem to get caught up. I came home and asked Loren if he felt like he was drowning like I am and he said yes (but he thinks it takes less for him to feel this way). Ugh. The house is a disaster. Stuff everywhere, loads of laundry, dishes that can't seem to all make it into the dishwasher, a floor covered in whatever the dogs track in. I'm not getting my exercise. I never have the motivation to make an appropriate dinner (thank goodness Loren makes sure we're fed). I haven't done any of my own schoolwork for a week. My days at work are entirely taken up by emails, advising, and class prep -- nevermind the test I need to write, the 3 research projects I have going, the clinical phone calls I need to make, my disaster of an office...When do all these talented mamas I know have to time to knit/sew/dye/cook all these wonderful creations?? It's midterm time and it seems I am suffering the mid-semester stress that seems to always ail faculty and students. I'll get there, I always do. :) One day at a time...

Goofin' Around

Just some fun pics to share.

Me and my girl.

She would pose and I would copy her.

Me and Bubby.

He got pretty excited about these pics.

Talkin' to the camera.

Did you notice my sweet Transformers shirt? $0.50 score at ReStyle.

My munchkins.

Pinching cheeks.

Crashed out.

It's pajama time!

Note: I usually avoid putting up pics of Addie with her binky - I never intended for her to have one past the age of 2. But I was pregnant with no energy so I didn't want to put up the fight. Then Bubby came and I didn't want to add to the already major transition. So I think the time is fastly approaching. Yes, I'm avoiding it...

This was too cute not to post. These were Addie's old pjs.

Just a couple shots from Cassie's pumpkin party.

Can you tell Loren's a bit smitten?

Looks at those sweet lips.

Feel free to be jealous of the cuteness I am constantly surrounded by... ;)

New (to me). Local. Delicious.

I have to market two new local favorites I tried this week. One is Tree City, a small smoothie place by BSU (off Capitol). I actually tried them a few weeks ago, but forgot to make my recommendations. This little place is locally owned, uses local products, uses whole fruits in their smoothies, makes a lot of their own stuff (including their tortillas, almond milk, and potato chips), has a great healthy menu, and is delicious! The options for smoothies are a bit overwhelming -- I almost wish they had a "grab bag" where they just surprise you because they all look great. My only complaint is that the entree menu is rather limited (but tasty). I really hope they last. They're in a location that hasn't had much luck in the past. Go check them out!

The other place we tried was Golden Wheel. Yes, that old drive-in off Fairview -- I know, it's been there forever, but we had never been! We decided to try it Friday after spending 2 hours in the park taking pictures (thank you Erin! can't wait to see them!). I had a hamburger, sweet potato fries, and a shake. Hamburger was deliciously non-greasy. Sweet potato fries were tasty with sweet marshmallow dip. And the shake -- oh the shake -- a cowpie shake (chocolate ice cream with oreos, caramel, and whip cream) -- sinful! Everything was so good I wanted to go back the new day. I did, in fact, stop by today just to inhale another heavenly shake. Definitely a new regular for us. :)

The next local place on my list (of new-to-me ones yet to try) is Boobies. Any other locally-owned recommendations?

Breakin' the Law, Breakin' the Law

Last year Cassie and I took Addie to the corn maze (actually Hayden too, I just didn't know it at the time), so we decided to go again this year. She has class and work on Saturdays, so we decided Sunday was the best day. We planned on today, but she had a funeral, so I called in Grandma (my mom) as back-up. I had already purchased tickets for Farmstead so my mom met me in Meridian and we headed out. To Kuna. Where it was last year. I am friends with them on Facebook and had recently looked at their website, so I didn't think twice about it. We get to Kuna to find a sign that says they've moved to Eagle and Overland. So we turn around and head that direction. We find it and drive in to see only a few cars. Yay, we picked a great day! We park, unload, and head in. Hmm, no concessions are open. Maybe they don't run them on Sunday. Wait, no one is at the gate to take our ticket. I guess they're closed. But people were still walking around, so we headed in. I called Loren to check and see if they open at all on Sunday (no) and if Linder (the other corn maze) was open (no). Why wouldn't they be open on Sunday? Seems to me like they're losing out on some good business. But everyone was walking around enjoying what was available -- the corn pit, the jumping pillow, and the animals.



We probably spent at least an hour there, commenting on how nice it was for them to leave some attractions open even when no one was there.




We were coming out of the mini maze when we saw police officers. Apparently they didn't mean to leave ANY attractions open -- it appears they forgot to close the gate and we were trespassing. Oops! Nothing like breaking the law with Grandma and two kids in tow. ;) Rebels! At least we weren't the only ones who 1) didn't bother to check that they were open Sunday and 2) decided to stay and enjoy the day anyway. There were still people driving in as we left.

So Farmstead, I apologize for trespassing, but I must say that the time we enjoyed there eased my irritation of driving to the old location (would it be too much to ask to put a nice big "We've Moved" sign on your website?) and not being open on Sunday (you're only open for a month, why not take full advantage?). I still have 2 pre-paid passes, so we may be back on Saturday (as I did not yet get to enjoy the actual corn maze). And if I do indeed come back, I am sure I will spend enough money at concessions to make up for the few items taken advantage of today. Although Addie is really the only one that enjoyed anything today and she's free!

Add Author to the Resume

Check this out: https://www.novapublishers.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=15005

One of my roles as faculty is to conduct research and get articles published. I don't have a research background and am not in a field that is very research intense, so it's an area in my career that I've struggled with a bit. Luckily I have great colleagues that have helped me along. A coworker, Tedd, was kind enough to let me help him with this particular publication. It actually started as a chapter for a larger book concerning PTSD (and still is part of that larger book), but the publisher asked if they could also publish it as a book by itself. I'm not sure it's anything that will ever sell (I know, I know, you're surprised it's not flying off the shelves), but it's pretty darn cool to be an author (although I must really give most of the credit to Tedd). I continue to be amazed at the opportunities I'm given each day, especially when I originally had no aspirations higher than obtaining my Bachelor's (not to undermine that achievement -- I think that's a great goal by itself). I never aspired to be a teacher or be in education, but I now wonder why I hadn't considered it -- hello, I'm a total nerd that loves school; what better setting for me?? :)

Zoo Travels, 16lb-er, Pumpkins, Fiber Love, and Baby Smiles

Just an update on October so far...

I had the brilliant idea of going to the zoo on the day of See Spot Walk. We hit the walk on our way down and got diverted, drove around the entire park looking for parking (to no avail), then had to stop for gas and food (apparently dad can't eat before we leave), parked over at BSU, loaded up all our stuff and trekked across the river to discover that See Spot Walk was getting over and there were lots of parking spots open. :) Oh well, it was a nice walk.

Here is Bubby enjoying the zoo.

And Addie digging for dinosaur bones. Okay, she was just piling the dirt on the edge and making a mess of herself.

Dad having SO much fun. :)

Addie munching on her bag of Bugles she picked out when dad stopped for food.

And the ever elusive pic of the mother with the children (and a kimodo dragon!).

We missed probably half of the zoo (we go a lot and have a membership, so no biggie), dealt with some toddler fits, and couldn't leave without hitting the giftshop, but overall I nice outing with the family. :)

Hayden had his 4-month appointment last week. 16lb 11oz -- 82nd percentile for weight and 96th for height. We were taking bets on his weight and actually all guessed too high -- lugging that boy around gets tiring! :) My dad was closest with 16lb 12oz. He's doing great, although he does have a flat spot on the side of his head, so we're making an effort to lay him on his other side. He's not quite rolling over yet (every time he tries I think it's the one) and isn't supporting himself on his legs yet (really doesn't seem interested), but I'm in no hurry. He's still a sweet laid back ham that loves any attention, adores his sister, and melts my heart.

We got to visit my friend, Becky, who just had her 3rd baby, Mr. Brody. Adorable! I can't believe Hayden was ever that small (they were the exact same weight at birth - and that was only 4 months ago!). We hit up McDonald's so the mobile ones could get some energy out and then played at Becky's. Hayden slept the majority of the time, but Addie had a blast with Cameron and Tucker. Mostly uneventful other than Addie pouring ice water into Brody's carseat (yes, before we left McDonald's) and having a fit when it was time to leave because she couldn't escape with multiple stolen items. Ah, the joys of toddlers.

Saturday I hit the SmartyPants consignment half-off sale and bought way more clothes than I needed to. I can't resist. They're so cute! FYI - I bought Hayden 24m pjs and they fit! Such a chunk. :) We also went to Liam's 3rd birthday party. Addie had a blast in the bounce house and I enjoyed good company and tasty food while Loren caught the attention of some other moms at how good of a dad he is and Hayden hung out with the other babies.

Sunday we had a pumpkin carving/painting party, but it really just ended up being us and Amy, so I'm not sure you can qualify it as a "party". But we had fun! My dad brought over home-grown pumpkins, some paper pumpkins for coloring, and some paint and carving tools. My mom also brought over some carving tools. Amy brought the kids for a day of play and mess (and some delicious cake too).

Addie is working on her pumpkin, accompanied by her dinosaur, of course (who paints without their dinosaur??).

Why stop at painting a pumpkin when you can paint your hand, your tricycle... (yes, the dinosaur got painted too)

We of course had to get out a Halloween costume. This isn't actually her costume this year, but it fits. Liam wore it too, but his pic is on my phone, which I haven't uploaded yet.

Madi was her usual doll self, playing mommy with Hayden here.

Our masterpieces. From left to right: Alex's, Addie's, Hayden's (carved by myself and my dad), Liam's, and Madi's.

Alex's pumpkin.

Addie's.

Liam's.

Madi's.

This is Addie's again. I just thought this pic was neat.

I started feeling crummy yesterday, so the kids and I had a lazy day. I did finish Ryan's hat (his birthday isn't until the 20th, but I let him have it yesterday). The pic doesn't do it justice -- the yarn is beautiful. More yarn dyed by my friend Chelsea (check out Plum Street Fiber Art on Etsy). I'm hoping this time I have enough to make a hat for Hayden. Ryan loved it.


I'm feeling a little better today, but still not up to teaching for 3 hours, so I decided to stay home. Being sick has forced me to slow down and enjoy some cuddle time with my little man. He's a pretty sweet little guy...



This is what I cast on yesterday. More yarn from Chelsea. This time it's for me. :) A shawl. First time doing lacework, so we'll see how it goes. I really should be working on some gifts, but I'm so excited to see this knit up. :)