messages to freshhell:
(click here to add new message):

from femme-inine :
I would *so* buy that book! :)
from harri3tspy :
Red -- she looks so harmless and cute, what with the dress and the bunnies and all. I think it means the Scribbletonians are plotting something.
from amblus :
Mike Rowe was on The Daily Show recent and I wanted to crawl through the TV and sit on his lap. DREAMY.
from sparkspark :
So many things to discuss.... let's see. A) Castings! It sounds so benign. And yet... B) I had a similar Maycy's skirt experience last night. $89 to $14. Woo-hoo! C) Um... Oh, yes. I also hate the DST. I am extra resentful this year. XOXO violet
from harri3tspy :
I emailed you the whistle info. Also, I used to have nothing but black in my wardrobe -- I was a pit orchestra musician by trade, so it was practical as well as my aesthetic preference. But I seem to be more drawn to color these days. Especially cherry red. There are days now when the only black I'm wearing is my shoes. Myself of ten years ago would have found it unfathomable.
from rs536-2000 :
At my new job I was wearing a black sweater. All of us in my little unit were wearing black pants. I'm hoping that it's a good omen. Tomorrow I'll be wearing different black pants and a black and cream STRIPED sweater. Shocking. Thanks for the link!
from dandydandy :
I'm only wearing black boots today. However, yesterday, I wore black cords, black coat, black boots annnnnd a black bra/underwear. You probably didn't need to know that last part though. No one does. Good luck with that men's club thing.
from smedindy :
Well, often times I dribble coffee upon myself (I know, a drinking problem) and it's black...
from captvfirefly :
Um, I'm wearing pink. Am I out of the club?
from supermom3604 :
This pregnancy has me living in black yoga pants. I would probably die without them.
from smedindy :
My coffee cup is black. Does that help?
from harri3tspy :
You and Dusty might enjoy "Tour America: a Journey through Poems and Art" by Diane Siebert. We've had it out of the library for a couple of weeks and we all love it.
from tiaris :
Heh, you know, one day that might become, "Jimmy CHOOS! Jimmy CHOOOOOS!" Heh.
from smedindy :
Katie and Kristin are having Easter pics taken with live bunnies AND live chicks. Katie is all excited, but we're worried about Kristin and how she'll handle a LIVE chick. Get well, Dusty. Oh, and Dick Van Dyke was a HOT commodity back then. I think he did Chitty Chitty Bang Bang soon after.
from femme-inine :
What?!!! You can garden? We got SNOW last night. Urgh.
from captvfirefly :
I always love the Red updates! I swear, your kids are brilliant. I just hope my niece turns out as funny, interesting, and smart as yours. :) I will definitely check out that book for Yukon; thanks for the suggestion!
from tiaris :
I like you more and more with each passing day. I hope that's not too much of a curse for ya. And? Libby was found guilty. Maybe that will give Cheney the heart attack this country so desperately needs.
from essaywriter :
One of my friends has a four year-old. Not A Box sounds like a great gift suggestion; thanks for the tip. And your kids sound like such a hoot...
from smedindy :
Oh, see this is how it starts! Wanting to hear songs six times in a row that are actually decent. That's where I started, and now look at me, listening to the 1910 Fruitgum Company at work. Well, um...ok I'm not the best role model. Anyway....
from rs536-2000 :
Have I ever mentioned that I wasn't allowed to wear black while I lived with my mom? Of course, Dusty's outfit sounded great... And you may have given me an idea for another entry.
from rs536-2000 :
Happy weekend. The worms sound like a good project!
from sparkspark :
All hail the worm farm! XOXO Violet
from tiaris :
You know, I'd much rather play with worm poo than look at ugly human feet. I mean, my own feet are nothing glam, but at least I have the sense to keep them free of grode. And I'd sooner starve than chew with my mouth open. Oh, don't mind me. I'm just irritable. There's only one body part I am interested in at the moment, and it's not on me.
from amblus :
WORM FARMER. I need to add that to my list of future careers.
from harri3tspy :
Let me know if you decide to do the worms. I've been thinking about it also. Although Mr. Spy points out that we already have a lot of worms around here. Perhaps AJ could go into business selling bait. Also, Red's story cracked me up. When AJ was about that age, he used to crack us up by singing a part of a song that went "shake it baby" as "shake the baby." We were convinced that DCFS was going to investigate.
from essaywriter :
"Pop and a weez-ah" is still my favorite. Happy worming!
from dandydandy :
I'm here! I'm having note leaving issues. I might blog about it someday. Kidding. Maybe. Anyway, I had to catch up on my reading a bit and have to say I'm always so happy when you and harriet suggest some wonderful thing/activity/book because my brain refuses to come up with ideas on its own.
from readersguide :
Hi!
from harri3tspy :
We are huge fans of Pinkwater's books and have been ever since picking up his picture books about good and bad polar bears in New Jersey. Actually, he's on my booklist for the other site. I can't remember if I saw him on yours.
from rs536-2000 :
I also wanted to extend my sympathies and say that I am convinced that life will look better in May. You can write about your garden and I'll feel envious and happy for you.
from rs536-2000 :
I'll have to check it out. OMG I LOVE the pessimist's mug. This past weekend someone called me moody. I don't think of myself that way. I believe that intelligent humans have moods. Sometimes things suck. What's the point of pretending otherwise?
from captvfirefly :
I remember that funk... I'm sorry you're going through it again. If you need an ear, or there's anything else I can do, you know where to find me!
from smedindy :
Old candy IS bad. I think that's a life lesson for all of us!
from portia12 :
I'm glad someone else watches Survivor. It is good. Are you watching Amazing Race All Stars? I love it. Good for you for going to yoga. It's intimidating and I know I never used my gym membership like I thought I would this year. I'm a bit embarassed. I have until March 15th. Maybe I can squeeze in a few times before then.
from smedindy :
Perhaps there can be 'unfamily music time' or somethin'? Maybe you can get the kidlets some industrial strength headphones?
from essaywriter :
Nothing like a good day to make all the crappy ones... almost worth it, eh?
from rs536-2000 :
loved your postscript. Also, who knew that doofi is the plural of doofus? I am excited.
from captvfirefly :
Sounds like one helluva good day to me, too! That'll just give you ammo to combat any icky days (IF they crop up). "We's okay." Too cute. And I'm glad Dusty is feeling better!
from smedindy :
Who-hoo for peaceful dinners. Now can you bottle that and send it to me??
from amblus :
Sweet day! I'm glad Dusty's feeling better too.
from dandydandy :
Damn, we both have a case of sick-kids-on-day-off syndrome!
from smedindy :
Sorry about the sickness! I didn't have the day off, sigh.
from dandydandy :
I gotta get me some of that yoga stuff. One of these days. Glad you are having an upswing today!
from harri3tspy :
Re: yoga: Good for you! I wish you could try out my studio -- the meditation part is especially good here. Our classes are an hour and fifteen minutes (although my favorite teacher tends to run more like an hour and a half; she's the studio owner, so it's her prerogative). Re: Chicago, hell, yes! I hope it all works out!
from smedindy :
Woot for a boss and budgets!
from readersguide :
Yes. I was trying to explain to K exactly what was so awful about the statistics woman and he looked at me like I was crazy. But I'm not crazy, and she really was annoying, and the whole thing is going to drive me crazy and then he'll be sorry .... Maybe.
from smedindy :
That sounds nice. There has been no school here for the past two days - which means Montessori is out too - which means Liz runs upstairs to privacy the minute I get home.
from essaywriter :
You make it sound so picturesque I almost wish I had been there. Almost. ;)
from harri3tspy :
I'm glad you all survived. I remember an ice storm like that when I was a kid. I may need to write about it one of these days. I wish I could play games with Dusty. AJ almost missed his Valentine's Party too, and he probably should have. He wasn't feeling great this morning and by dinner time he had a fever of 102. Poor AJ. But he got his Valentines!
from portia12 :
LOL, people in Kenya! and Red and Dusty, classic! Thinking of y'all.
from femme-inine :
I don't have a scale either! I need one if I'm to monitor the weight loss, but I don't have one at the moment. And being unemployed, I'm too broke to buy one! And for the record: I L-O-V-E Janet Evanovich and am *never* embarassed to read her books! The fluffy chick lit I also read from time to time is another story altogether! :)
from tiaris :
Sounds like someone else's head is going to be gone, too, heh. You know I adore you.
from dandydandy :
You're a genius!
from femme-inine :
Hope Dusty feels better soon!
from dandydandy :
Good luck with that office thing. Sounds like you need lots of it. (The girl at the bank...should she be handling money? I'm just sayin'.)
from harri3tspy :
Yeah, that's a big drag. I always think I'm in an office culture where people are pulling together, but in the end you just have to delegate and then everyone gets all resentful. Bah. Good luck with it.
from rs536-2000 :
That sucks. Sounds like it calls for devious behavior which is annoying to say the least.
from harri3tspy :
I realize there's not much I can do to help from afar, but I did used to plan benefits for a living, so if there's anything I can do to help or if you need someone to vent to, just say the word!
from captvfirefly :
Pop AND A WEEEEZ-AH!! (I'm sorry, I can't help myself. That's my favorite Redism, and it just seemed so appropriate after that meeting. Damn those crickets at work! I hope someone there gets their head out of their ass and helps you. Also? That teller had never heard that phrase? Wow. Although, I've uttered a few phrases that had people saying, "Huh, what?")
from smedindy :
Wow, the cricket chirping meeting is like the WORST. Go grab some beers for tonight...
from rs536-2000 :
Ouch. I know someone who does those kinds of events (here in NY). Let me know if I should put you in touch with her.
from captvfirefly :
Sending luck your way for the meeting! Go get 'em, tiger. :)
from smedindy :
Tilt at a few windmills!
from smedindy :
Ringo said it best, "You know it don't come easy." I'm done with drama. Fortunately, I have no divas at work. I just have a 5 year old and a 20 month old in training!
from tiaris :
Okay, you're not in New Jersey, right? Because I was wondering if maybe you were talking about my sister with the self-created drama, the overanalyzing for snubs, and so on. Oy.
from rs536-2000 :
Outsourcing of US jobs is a terrible thing!
from smedindy :
It's both the past and the future. Just wait until you watch the OTHER FOUR movies!
from rs536-2000 :
Prasind Fuchre is the new Prez of Scribbletown. He's from India. He had to change his name from his previous family name which was Dixit [sounds like Dick-Shit]. True story.
from sparkspark :
No matter when you're living, just remember: you're still on Earth, and no talking monkeys can tell you otherwise. In other news, I very much like this new Scribbletown vocabulary, and the groundhog/sunflower theory of Christmas. You never fail to enlighten me, dear Claudia! XOXO Violet
from essaywriter :
As of today, �Pop AND A WEEEEZ-AH!� is my new personal motto.
from dandydandy :
You're actually living in the past, present and future concurrently. Isn't it fun?
from harri3tspy :
1. They do Young Rembrandt's at AJ's school too. The kids we know who do it seem to enjoy it. 2. I'd guess Dusty's words to be Present and Future. Especially since they're written on the calendar. 3. I saw part of Planet of the Apes too and amused Mr. Spy by claiming it was actual history because it was on the History channel. I crack myself up. I'm glad I'm not the only one who thought that was bizarre.
from rs536-2000 :
I like that. "Advantages"
from smedindy :
I remember some events, sure, but I remember things mostly from pre-school. My old drum set. My close and play. And I remember the first time I went poop all by myself in big potty without a potty seat. No lie!
from essaywriter :
I loved this entry. What do we remember from when we were kids? Sometimes crazy stuff like listening to our mom on the baby monitor. Personally, every time I make popcorn I think of my dad and how he used to make it for us every Sunday night right before Walt Disney, and we would all sit and eat popcorn and watch the show. It's one of my favorite childhood memories, now more important since he's gone.
from dandydandy :
I had a day off yesterday and three of my kids were home sick. I only have a few Thursdays off before clinicals start up, and so far, I've had some kid or other home sick every Thursday. Kinda ruins my plans for the day, so I'm going to start kicking the kids out the door no matter how contagious or infected they are. I'm absolutely kidding! Hope you had a peaceful and quiet day.
from readersguide :
!!! Have a great day. Red is VERY cute in those pictures.
from captvfirefly :
Red looks so grown up in that "Red as a ballerina" picture! Man, time flies. And I absolutely love "Vegetarian Barbie!" Dusty should send her ideas on to Mattel. Enjoy the peace and quiet!
from smedindy :
Ah, peace and quiet...
from readersguide :
N and M had that hundred days project! Actually, with N I think it was 1,000, since she was older. Anyway -- she and two friends made a bunch of bean people, standing around a globe, and M spelled out her name, probably each letter with 20 beans. It was fun --
from smedindy :
They don't work in your car? They work in mine just fine. Maybe if you ripped them on a computer and re-burned them???
from harri3tspy :
Nurse Matilda is on my list! Or, rather, it was on my list. Before it got eaten by my dying Mac. I'm sorry to hear you're at Death's door. But I'm mighty impressed at your Smed IDs.
from captvfirefly :
I am so sorry you're feeling like death warmed over! I tell you, kids are like petri dishes, and you always end up with it. No fair! I hope you start feeling better very, very soon. And? Dusty project sounds pretty darn cool!
from smedindy :
BTW - I am totally in awe that you got "Range War". I thought people would know the artist but not the title at all...wow...I bow down.
from smedindy :
Damn, you're pretty good. But, you need to listen to #15 again. It's more than just wind chimes, and I thought you'd dig it.....it just takes a while to get going.
from harri3tspy :
Rundgren. Why didn't I think of that? But yes, totally Carol King (or is it Carole? I can never remember). You got way more than I did. but I'm psyched I figured out New Edition. Man, I hope I never have to hear that song again.
from rs536-2000 :
I'm sure you'd be GREAT company.
from amblus :
I got...nothing. Seriously, this is all beyond me because I look at mothers with babies and feel the same way you do, but I don't have the memory of childbirth pain and sleepless nights to back it up. I do wish our parts had an on/off switch though. That would rule.
from captvfirefly :
Priceless Dusty quote!! Yes, it was 15 here, too... or maybe even lower. The high is only supposed to be in the 20's. Winter is finally here. And I have frozen washer fluid to prove it. As for the girly bits, I'm so with you!! Damn hormones.
from smedindy :
Ah, if only a new thermometer were the answer to climate issues!
from essaywriter :
Hmph. Just wait till menopause starts - your period doesn't come for two months and you think you might be done, and then all of a sudden - hello, I'm back! Bet you can't wait now, huh? And I agree with Dusty - 15 deg is too low, just glad we're not on Centigrade because damn then the temp sounds even lower...
from rs536-2000 :
That photograph scene at the end made me want to hurl.
from dandydandy :
My kids love making volcanos in the sandbox! It's mom approved cuz the mess is outside!
from smedindy :
Roly poly fish heads are never seen drinking cappuccino in Italian restaurants with Oriental women.Yeeaahh!!!!
from essaywriter :
Kids are such a hoot. I *wish* all I needed was a lima bean...
from tiaris :
Would that every issue came down to a lima bean.
from rs536-2000 :
I love the idea for this compilation. I want you to want me? Nah--I'll think of a better one.
from supermom3604 :
And wait. You had a dream about me? I had a dream that I had triplets with really big ears. I'll bet yours made more sense.
from supermom3604 :
The church sign I drive past to get to town used to say "God made you so he could be with you" and I thought that sounded selfish of him. And don't forget "Don't Wanna Behave" by Dance Hall Crashers for your toddler anthology.
from willowfox :
I drove by a church once and there was a sign up that said, "What's missing here? CH__CH" The answer, of course, being U R. I thought that was creative. Even though while I enthusiastically agreed that I was not at the church, I didn't agree at all that I was <i>missing</i> from it.
from smedindy :
I shall comb my catalog tonight, but one is "Gimme Dat Ding" by the Pipkins. Heck, kids will love it, and adults find it annoying.
from cosmicrayola :
I'm curious. What did you mean by paint-by-number prodigy?
from readersguide :
Oh dear -- that catalog was really frightening. And such kind smiles on all those old ladies wearing those HIDEOUS things!
from harri3tspy :
Hilarious. I like it!
from sparkspark :
The Buck & Buck catalog has made me a new woman. Thank you! XO Violet
from smedindy :
You get a song. All I get is a screech and a "Kristin, that's MINE!" and then the plaintive wail of a toddler...
from dandydandy :
I wish I could go around singing mine-mine-mine songs. Lucky Red!
from harri3tspy :
You don't know the half of it. I took my discussion of the latest Jane to email with rs536! I'll tell you what I told her: in my opinion, the best version is the BBC miniseries from the early '80s. Most of the actors were unknown to me then, but Rochester is someone I've heard of since -- Timothy Dalton. You can find the description at IMDb here: http://imdb.com/title/tt0085037/
from rs536-2000 :
I am DEFINITELY watching part 2. Even though I'll yell at the TV the whole time. Relaxing, eh?
from readersguide :
Yes, I don't think mine sounds much like me. N's is a little bit like her, but not really. And K's is really not like him at all. So, who knows? Also -- I loved your essay. Also, I know how sometimes just a little bit of off-balance can completely ruin a day -- even though you'd think it wouldn't. Hope tomorrow is better ...
from fluttrbykiss :
AAAawwwww. I hope you're back to your normal self again soon, and that your sucky day ends on a positive note... (((huggles)))
from smedindy :
Wow. That's like a whole day of suck...hang in there. Tunes mailed out soon!
from captvfirefly :
I wish I had something to say that would cheer you up! In the mean time, I just thought I'd say hi! :)
from smedindy :
I had a very nice weekend too! Peaceful and relaxing. I'm as zen as I can be. And, you left a tag open!
from miedema2002 :
Hi, I like your diary.
from rs536-2000 :
oh, naive? I'm sorry that you've gotten kicked in the butt for that. And about the carpet? Dirty cloth/fiber tastes great to chew/lick. I was a big fan of that as a toddler.
from rs536-2000 :
My mother and step-father were "mostly" vegetarian when I was a teenager, so I always feel a little weird when I have a huge burger-crave.
from rs536-2000 :
A house full of mice might even be preferable.
from harri3tspy :
Those are fabulous. I particularly like the postmodernist comic strip. And the pictures are beautiful.
from captvfirefly :
I love the Dusty stories, too! She's got talent, that kid.
from fluttrbykiss :
OooHHHH Yay!! I LOVE Dusty stories.... Hehe... Getting to be just like her Mom. I think you may have a writer on your hands. ((huggles))
from smedindy :
Oh, my goodness me! What a jackanape!
from tiaris :
Hi! If you'd like the password to my diary, please drop me a note with your e-mail addy. The password will come from an AOL account and a screen name that is reminiscent of an Italian dessert. I will, of course, delete your note as soon as I see it.
from smedindy :
Well, I'll burn one and send it to you with the Holiday CD that I need to send out!
from captvfirefly :
Yes, I'm (not) dealing with a few people right about now - is there a full moon? And? I SO wanted to post a rant about the douchebag who was tailgaiting me for most of my drive in to work today, but it would have used WAY too many swear words, and I'm trying to be better about the whole sailor talking thing. :) I hope those idiots settle down at work!
from rs536-2000 :
I'm glad...I am always funny when I don't intend to be. It's good to know that it has that effect.
from amblus :
Yeah...I sincerely want a full set of holiday sweaters like you wouldn't believe! Don't forget the sparkly flag-covered short sleeve 4th of July sweater! That's the best one.
from smedindy :
You could come to work for me. We ALL get along here. Sorry you have to work with the toads of the short forest.
from femme-inine :
I, for one, will not be leaving notes about poop-related posts. Regrettable sounds in some ways like PJH. Who isn't so much regrettable (I mean, she has a master degree and a career and manages to pay her bills and not wreck her cars, but she spends wild amounts of money on stupid things like $175 on clothes from the Buckle which she wouldn't try on because they might think she was gay - it was boy's jeans - and she can't have that but I digress.) Anyway, PJH is more ... Not Right For Me. But the "they just don't get him thing"? Exactly.
from reeebecca :
Hello, this is your youngest sister...I finally went ahead and got a diaryland journal because I've been wanting to write to you! Just wanted to say that we dated the same creep. I too dated a Regrettable for 3 years who was mean to his mother and to everyone who came across his path. Big pot smoker; never told me when he was drunk or high or that he did drink at all. He still has no ambition except when he gets drunk he calls me over and over until I answer. Then he says something like "Come over. can I kiss you?" even though he knows I have an Unregrettable right now who I love. Boys are stupid. You are lucky to be past all of this. ...And to have two sweet little girls to love you and sometimes act like Joan Jett. :)
from sparkspark :
Bluh. (that's the sound of me throwing up, just a little.) And, not only am I leaving you a note to say I'm glad you ditched Regrettable, I want to thank you for sending the article. It was well-written and very poignant. I appreciate it. XOXO Violet
from essaywriter :
Hey I don't want to be a loser so I'm sending you a message; that worked nicely. I also wrote about an old boyfriend today. He was a jerk, but in a different way than yours...
from fluttrbykiss :
Just to prove you wrong... lol... I too know a Regrettable, and had much the same experience. Though, I NEVER speak of him, as I am trying to forget him... ((huggles))
from captvfirefly :
Hey! I didn't comment on the poop! (But poop IS funny.) And you're right about the signs to spot a loser .. too bad sometimes our hearts (or libido) get in the way.
from smedindy :
I'm commenting sans poop.
from willowfox :
HA! Well, okay fine. If you want to know what happens to us LATER... Of the people in my G&T program who I've kept up with: I didn't QUITE graduate college and I work as the office bitch for my company, Evan Gullahy gave up studying in high school to baseball and hot girls, then went on to a career as a furniture salesman, and Barbara Brusher is a housewife. So maybe you should keep Dusty as far away from the G&T as you possibly can. ;)~
from willowfox :
I was in the G&T program from I think 4th through 8th grade. I have no idea if her program will be anything like mine, but the one I was in didn't push me or stress me out at all. It was really fun. We got pulled out of class probably like once a week or so and we went to some other classroom, and we worked on special projects. It was a lot more hands-on creative problem solving than added academics. I really enjoyed it, and it gave me a lot of confidence to have been selected for it. Congratulations to Dusty! Oh, yeah, and I agree. Poo is funny. Especially Barbies pooing. I've never seen a Barbie poo but I'll bet it's hilarious.
from essaywriter :
Today's entry made me laugh out loud. Yep, poop is funny. Is she into the Captain Underpants books yet - in one of them, one of the bad guys turns into a big turd. Yeah, not exactly the stuff of great literature but the kids love them so how can you argue with that?
from harri3tspy :
Thanks again for the book review! I'm going to have to reread those one of these days. I barely remember them. My favorite of Estes' books was The Witch Family.
from captvfirefly :
I'm just finally catching up on my favorite diaries after the hellish work week I had last week, SO, I wanted to say hi! :) I'm still here, reading every chance I get!
from smedindy :
They test for G & T here in first grade as well, and to get in you have to be accelerated in both reading and math - but that may change. Katie is quite bright, so who knows.
from smedindy :
Thanks!
from willowfox :
That whole entry is just too adorable for words. BCCBDCD
from supermom3604 :
I find stuff that I've written about the boys, little things they used to do that totally rocked my world at the time, that I would have completely forgotten about if I hadn't reread it in my diary. It's stuff like the new Red stuff that makes me remember why I keep breeding.
from smedindy :
Maisy Maisy Maisy Maisy Mouse
from sparkspark :
Weird... I was just thinking, "I should see if Willofox will help freshhell set up some comments," and here she is, beating me to the punch. ARE YOU STALKING ME, WILLOWFOX? Because that would be cool. Anyway, I guess it's not stalking if she was here first. AND, my actual comment for today is: I'm totally with you on the humiliating Godspell acting-out. I'd repressed the memory, but it has come screaming back. XOXO Violet
from rs536-2000 :
She remarried and now they are divorced. He's not a bad guy, but he wasn't much of a father. I look forward to seeing the essay!
from rs536-2000 :
wow, lots of echoes of my past there [no divorce though, my father died when my mom was pregnant]. Middle school is a terrible trial.
from willowfox :
Go to SparkSpark's page. See those comments? Yeah. That was totally me. I think I can probably help you get your HaloScan up. Maybe. See, it's not that I understand all this tecchie stuff, it's just that I take REALLY lucky guesses. Yeah!
from fluttrbykiss :
De-lurking long enough to say that I LOVE hearing about Red's latest exploits... Reminds me of a certain *Red* I know... **Slithering back under the rock from whence I came, Now...** {{{Huggles}}}
from willowfox :
Hello! I'm here and I read you every time you post. But you should get comments. I think we'd both be happier. :) (You can get them free without signing up for Gold, not that I DON'T think it's a good idea to support DLand, I just don't have the money for it.)
from dandydandy :
I did a lot of reading and talking about Vikings with my boys a few years ago and it backfired a tiny bit when my oldest son went to school and insisted that the Vikings were the first Europeans to "discover" North America. Apparently, the Vikings have no business sailing around a public school curriculum. (That tidbit, much as it appears to be discouraging you, is actually attempting to be an inspiration)
from amblus :
I love tights because they keep my legs warm. I love skirts too, so there you go. Whee.
from rs536-2000 :
Er, um, er, I want an essay? Am I too late? Give the funky thing a couple of years...I bet one of them gives you a funky headache.
from harri3tspy :
I loved tights. I was probably a bit of a girly girl, but I hated pink. And ruffles. And lace. So not too girlly. And my reasons for loving tights were not girly: I could wear a dress and still hang upside down on the monkey bars without anyone seeing my underwear. Very practical. And many thanks for sending me your lovely essay. It was beautiful. And I love the layout with the photo. I don't know how anyone who knew Ruby wouldn't be weeping. And yet it's not at all sentimental (I mean that in the best way). That's an incredibly tough line to walk, especially with a story like Ruby's. I hope you get lots of great letters to the editor!
from readersguide :
Both my kids went through girly-girl phases. N had a pact with a friend to only wear dresses to school in pre-school. Highly disturbing. Needless to say, they both grew out of it by third grade, and for years would not be caught dead in pink. Now it's just a color ...
from tiaris :
Fret not! Some girly little girls grow up to be birds with big mouths and matching attitudes. Dressed deceptively daintily, dem's the worst kind. Or so I hear. Heh. ;-)
from rs536-2000 :
Congratulations! Isn't it wonderful to get positive feedback...especially on something so heartfelt.
from readersguide :
1. Can I have a copy of your essay? 2. Arthur IS an aardvark -- for something really interesting about him, go here: http://readingtokid.blogspot.com/ and look at May 18th.
from amblus :
Congrats! You should be proud of yourself, man.
from harri3tspy :
Good for you. The one time I was forced to squeal -- I caught my boss embezzling -- I felt horrible about it, even though she was crazy and, apparently, a criminal. Even in a situation so obvious (she hid the theft in my accounts so if someone else caught it, I could easily have been blamed; apparently she thought I wouldn't notice), it was still a tough thing to do. May the dumbass get what's coming to him/her.
from harri3tspy :
Elbow away! I was hoping you might be interested. I think book reviews are a great idea. One of the reasons I picked blogspot was because it's easy to apply categories to posts there and it's also easy to have multiple authors. I guess I'm kind of envisioning some regular feature categories -- book reviews, music reviews, website reviews. But also personal stories that make suggestions for projects or activities, along the line of my letterboxing thing the other day. I'd love to get a forum going on making school choices. There's way more to be said than I can handle myself!
from smedindy :
No need to write anything! You've done your part, just enjoy. Well, if you DO wanna review, be my guest!
from tiaris :
I heart you for the TV entry. People can get up and talk about the evils of birthday cupcakes and sodas in vending machines all they want, but I think the trifecta of perps behind the obesity epidemic among kids consists of TV, video games, and computer games. That just translates into mental much and a sedentary lifestyle later. I don't watch a lot of it, but I saw how it sucked the soul out of my mother. That was all she did when she was home. Once she retired, she literally lived on the couch watching TV. I once went a year without owning a television set and you know what? I didn't miss it. So you rock on with your non-TV self!
from harri3tspy :
1. I used to love Hello Larry. 2. Arthur is an aardvark. Apparently, he's an aardvark who's had a lot of plastic surgery, because I don't see the resemblance at all. 3. You go, girl. Our satellite dish was broadcasting the baby channel for free for a while when it first started up. I found myself so horrified, that I couldn't even bring myself to write about it.
from smedindy :
Hello Larry! Oh, man. I had a thing for one of the daughters on that show! Woot!
from rs536-2000 :
thanks--I tried one of the pasta dishes back when you first sent it. I need to be better about making veggie food.
from sparkspark :
Did I ever thank you for the fab Christmas card? I love it. So, Thank you! I hope you're having a happy new year, and this cafe' sounds like a stellar place. XOXO Violet
from cosmicrayola :
Welcome to the Over-40-gang diary ring. You are now officially an old fart. If you don't think you are an old fart, that's ok. Most of us don't.
from femme-inine :
Thanks! I think I will be able to do that. I appreciate your kindness along the way.
from femme-inine :
Sounds like you had a good year overall. :) Here's to a wonderful 2007!
from tiaris :
I will say, one of the good things about 2006 was adding new diaries to my list. Onward to 2007--and the last 749 days of this crappy administration!
from kungfukitten :
Happy New Year. Broccoli + honey = genius. I also loved the dancing monkeys. woot woot!
from smedindy :
Happy merry 2007 from a non-introvert! Woot!
from rs536-2000 :
Happy New Year from a fellow introvert. I hope that your resolution works out and I really enjoyed this post. CW sounds fantastic--I'm glad to know that.
from harri3tspy :
I cannot wait to see CW. But I'm trying to hang on until it's out on video, because AJ just doesn't do well in movie theaters -- he gets too wiggly with the excitement of it all -- and I SO don't want to have to leave early. We're going to start the book for our bedtime reading as soon as we finish our current one. I'm glad to hear it's as great as it looks. The NY Times reviewer loved it too.
from kungfukitten :
"I have tried to scream. But I cannot do it." Wow! I can unintentionally scream in a register that only dogs can hear.
from harri3tspy :
The picture is fabulous. And thanks so much for the stickers -- they made AJ's day and were particularly well timed, seeing as we got 3 packages today that he can't open until Christmas.
from captvfirefly :
The Christmas picture is ADORABLE! I just got it last night. I put it up on my fridge with the other cute pictures that make me smile. :)
from tiaris :
Aw, I know you were messing around. No need for a truce, because there was no prickliness. Muah!
from rs536-2000 :
I'm jealous of your time off from work. Hope the holiday is good.
from amblus :
In some ways it's like we're the exact same person. I might have to write a similar entry.
from tiaris :
I would do this, but given what your thoughts might be on a 40-year-old having a MySplice page, I'm afraid of getting the letter Q. (Heh, cute comment at Lauren's. I feel snarked.)
from rs536-2000 :
Nice...skid-rodeo. yeah, i'm not so social. Though i do spend more time with people than I would have thought possible.
from willowfox :
I want to play! Thanks!
from harri3tspy :
I'll play. As long as you don't give me X.
from supermom3604 :
When I first contemplated motherhood, poop was there in a vague sense. Like, oh, there will be diapers and in the diapers there will be poop. I don't think I had any idea how much poop would not be in the diapers. And how long it would be part of my daily life.
from rs536-2000 :
I think you should consider publish this piece. It's incredibly good.
from tiaris :
Touching entry. Wow.
from supermom3604 :
Reading about your feelings on your parents' divorce makes me feel awful about my own. I mean, we're still civil to each other and there are no loyalty oaths to be pledged, but I wonder what harm we're doing and if it really outweighs the harm we'd do by staying together. My parents are still together, so I have no perspective... now I guess I do.
from tiaris :
OMG! The fused ribbon candy! Yes! And no one ever ate the white one with the green stripe.
from amblus :
Nice! I love the santa picture this year as well.
from rs536-2000 :
I know that memo well!
from rs536-2000 :
I like that game! It's very inventive.
from captvfirefly :
That picture with Santa turned out great! So festive. I'm sorry to hear that Red has come down with a bug - I know everyone around here has it. Poor little Yukon has had it for a couple of days. I talked to my sister on Saturday and she said to Yukon, "Tell Aunt Lauren what you did this morning." "Aunt Noren, I PUKED-ED!" So much coughing, and out comes the food. I hope Red gets better soon, and that she doesn't infect the rest of the household.
from readersguide :
Great pictures! Lovely cabinets, lovely knobs, great desk -- and Red seems to look happiest and most herself in the bathtub. Smart girl -- I hope she feels better soon.
from harri3tspy :
I can't believe we haven't seen those Space Case books, given AJ's penchant for all things space and his adoration of anything illustrated by James Marshall. I'll have to track them down. As for Christmas cards, want to swap?
from dandydandy :
I forgot about that self authored parenting manual! Gosh, I don't even remember what was written in it. My new parenting manual is very short. It says: "Just get through the day." (There might be some other words in there that I censored for the sake of keeping your notes clean)
from tiaris :
I've had days much like Red has. I attribute them to PMS, though.
from rs536-2000 :
Sounds like a grueling weekend. Sorry to hear about it. One spanking? Seems reasonable.
from willowfox :
Do you have comments? Just making sure I'm leaving this in the right spot. Okay, on to what I need to say. DID YOU SAY ELECTRIC COMPANY?!? Have I just fallen in LOVE with your parenting style? Um, I'd say YES. I have. Dude, seriously, Morgan Freeman and Rita Moreno SO OUTWEIGH one spanking, I SWEAR. Please tell me where I can get the Electric Company, for one day I, too, will have children (though this entry scared me away for at least an additional 3 years) and I, too, will want to teach them how double letters work "It's KeLLy and BuDDy and oh, fuDDy duDDy double L and double D in the miDDle can't you see!..." You're the best.
from harri3tspy :
I'm glad you like it. I miss singing in that choir terribly (as opposed to singing terribly, which I'm sure I've done my share of as well), especially at this time of year.
from warcrygirl :
Ahhh, you do live close to be but not as close as I thought. I live in NC, along the I95 corridor. We could still meet up with Meany, though!
from warcrygirl :
Judging from your last comment on Meany's site you and I are pretty close to each other; I'm about 2 hours south of Richmond and Quantico can't be that far from Richmond. And yes, I am too lazy to check Mapquest before leaving this note. HAAA!!!
from dandydandy :
I just used a cup of flour, a cup of salt and a half cup of water. I've seen variations of this recipe at various locations throughout cyberspace--I have no idea if a different ratio of salt to flour to water makes any difference or not.
from readersguide :
thank you! I liked the picture of red in glasses, and also the squishy one --
from rs536-2000 :
That is a great title. I also find that it's a great thing to have low expectations, so if/when they are met you are thrilled.
from sparkspark :
Si, si, quiero el card and article, por favor! Porque habla en espanol hoy? No se! Estoy muy loca. Anyway, if you've lost my address, holler.
from captvfirefly :
I LOVE the pic of Red in the goofy glasses! And the "Christmas Hug" pic would be adorable on the cards .... see, I'm no good - I think they're all cute. (And I loved seeing Number One sister - Hi #1 Sister! respond with an "I hate you" to the family pic. Heh) And that cake was so cool! I think you did a great job.
from tiaris :
Your snark. 'Tis glorious. Heh, you know, once upon a time I considered it. Like, if Jim Moran ever decided he'd had enough days off, I'd run to take his place. Not now, though, between the whole NY thing and just the whole smarminess of politics. Plus, the traffic here sucks and I'm tired of DC restauants.
from readersguide :
Cabinets are great! I'll look at the photos, too, when I have more time.
from harri3tspy :
I would love to see both article and Christmas card. I'll check the photos later when I have more time. Also, there's a CD on its way to you.
from rs536-2000 :
Great pictures. I like the way the cake looks...I also LOVE the yoga photo. Developing her Zen practice is important.
from readersguide :
Yay! Another birthday party survived.
from dandydandy :
Ha! I'm so glad to know the whole should-I-stay-should-I-go party dance isn't just happening in my mind.
from captvfirefly :
Those school pictures are adorable! Your kids are so damn cute. And Red, oh yes, she looks like she's concocting an evil genius plan. :)
from harri3tspy :
Such beautiful pictures! If it's any consolation, Red sounds a lot like my niece when she was younger (she's 3 months younger than AJ). She's still Janus-faced -- sweeter than sweet one minute, a raging typhoon the next -- but destruction no longer trails in her wake the same way it did when she was Red's age. This is a kid who broke her arm twice before she turned 5. Just because she's like that.
from rs536-2000 :
She looks ready to pounce. I'm always amazed at how fast kids grow.
from rs536-2000 :
I'm also here to sympathize. Glad that the husband was around to help. Poor Dusty, that sounds very hard for her...and poor you!
from readersguide :
I don't really have anything useful to say. I'm just sympathizing. Kids really are just different -- as anyone who has more than one knows. It probably doesn't hurt to let her see the consequences of her unintended acts -- i.e., that when she flings her cup, someone gets hurt, the game is over and no more fun for her. And then she'll be older, less irrational and by then Dusty will be up to something very worrisome. If they're at all like mine, that is.
from rs536-2000 :
Yeah, I hope she keeps eating so the pedialite isn't necessary.
from captvfirefly :
Ewww. Poo. I can't think of anything else to say - your visual was quite effective. Heh.
from dandydandy :
My mom always swore that her kids get the D word when teething but her Doctor poo-pooed (like how I worked that in?) that idea. I guess medicine truly is advancing! Heh.
from rs536-2000 :
That was such a helpful entry for me in all kinds of ways...the scorecard stopped me right in my tracks there. Good pityparty cure. Any chance that you'd be willing to e-mail me your essay? VLP it is. That's pretty fabulous. Bleach/Water concoction? Tell more!!
from readersguide :
Congratulations!
from captvfirefly :
Congratulations! That's fantastic! Was it an essay you already shared with the class? And just so you know, your writing does not suck!
from amblus :
You rule! And I just LOVE you. Totally.
from harri3tspy :
Congratulations! That's fantastic news! Ditto what RS said. Also, I'm pretty sure we have hyenas in our woods. And one of AJ's friends is convinced there are monkeys.
from rs536-2000 :
That's awesome! What a great feeling...congratulations! Please let me know when it appears.
from rs536-2000 :
Thanks for the good thoughts...and belated HB to Dusty.
from captvfirefly :
I think I still have your address, but you might want to email it to me just in case. That way I have them all together. Also? You're totally getting a special treat with yours, since I didn't send you one last year (when I was supposed to *ahem*).
from tiaris :
Happy Birthday, Dusty! And--dating the atheism. I have to try that. Might have been 2000. Clearly if there was a god, he'd have listened to my pleas re: the presidential election.
from captvfirefly :
Happy, happy birthday, Dusty!! :) :)
from amblus :
Happy birthday to Dusty!
from harri3tspy :
And of course a very happy birthday to Miss Dusty.
from harri3tspy :
AJ used to call swings "whee" too. I'd forgotten about it until you mentioned it.
from rs536-2000 :
I'm excited to know that such a thing exists!
from rs536-2000 :
shredding company? yes, that sounds like THE WRONG WAY. Trash-relocation isn't friendly.
from readersguide :
v. curious about scribbletown holiday preparations. Hope the pie is good!
from rs536-2000 :
Good luck with it. Have fun with your sister.
from readersguide :
I'm wishing you good luck in getting through the holiday ... The thing I do like about Thanksgiving is that it's only food. I mean, I realize that's enough, but at least it isn't food + presents, like some other holidays. Or costumes, requiring a person to stay up til three stitching fairy capes. Bah.
from captvfirefly :
When I was a kid, I LOVED going up to Michigan to spend 5 days with my grandma. The whole big, dysfunctional side of my mom's family would gather, and all of the kids would play video games until our eyes bled, and we'd go to movies and generally have a great time. Now that I'm older, and my grandmother is gone, and it's now just my aunt, uncle (my mom's brother), and two cousins, well, it just doesn't feel the same. And I'm sick of always getting together over food. And, well, now that none of us are kids, it's getting harder to even get THAT small group of people together. And it's always fun because my dad doesn't like my mom's brother, and he barely tolerates my cousins (although he's come around on the older one - the one I am closest to), so THAT always leads to, "I don't give a damn about what your brother wants" conversations. Ugh. Basically, I feel your pain.
from harri3tspy :
It's the magic of scribbletown, transmogrifying toddlers across time and space in order to allow them maximum destruction.
from tiaris :
Yep. Nope. I don't like turkey, either. I don't eat bird. It's too much like eating my pets. I told my sister this--I'm visiting her for Thanksgiving--and haven't heard back from her. I'll bet she's annoyed. But tough. I just won't eat it.
from rs536-2000 :
I immediately strted thinking of a narrative in which a Christian fundamentalist kills small childen. Dusty did a good job of escaping the serial killer!
from rs536-2000 :
Puddles!! That sounds like fun.
from sparkspark :
That ring sounds like its own form of "slave time." Yikes! XOXO Violet
from rs536-2000 :
yes, it would be wonderful. But impossible I would guess.
from harri3tspy :
"Slave time?" So is that like if AJ socks Dusty in the stomach then I have to go clean your toilets for 15 minutes? Or is it the parents who are misbehaving? I'm intrigued. And I'm also wondering how it relates to philanthropy.
from tiaris :
Saw your note at RS's and thought I'd stop by. The ring? Can fall out. That's what my doctor told me. I told him no thanks. I wear thongs. All I need is for it to fall out on a dance floor. "Excuse me. Excuse me. DON'T STEP ON THAT! Let me get it! Thanks!"
from harri3tspy :
It's probably just as well that Red doesn't run around school screaming "Psycho," though. I'm imagining a remake of The Shining staring Red and her co-stars from Scribbletown.
from rs536-2000 :
Sorry about the birth control. Sounds really awful. I think "psycho Baby, qu'est ce que c'est" is a great theme song for a little kid.
from harri3tspy :
Dusty's songs made me laugh so hard -- especially Ode to Red. My little brother used to do that too. I'm not sure I thought to write a song about it, but I was kind of fascinated and repulsed at once. I also have fond memories of the Nutcracker. We went to the production at Lincoln Center every year, preceded by a visit to Daddy's office (where all his coworkers gave us candy) and lunch at the now defunct Uncle Tai's Chinese restaurant. I think I was probably about Dusty's age when we went the first time -- 5 or 6. I will never forget it. I hope she won't either.
from sparkspark :
I am very pleased with these new songs--not only are they entertaining, they teach valuable lessons in personal hygiene. (Well, the Ode to Red is less instructive, but still a lovely character sketch.) Brava, bella! XOXO Violet
from rs536-2000 :
Yeah, while I enjoy my single, no-children life, it puts me at a disadvantage in many social situations.
from rs536-2000 :
The FreshHell four is a GREAT band name. Sounds like a very successful weekend.
from rs536-2000 :
I hate dreams like that! I'll miss ed also...I hope they give him a good memorial on the show, which I don't watch...
from sparkspark :
Deal! Except I have to send willowfox the Ace of Spades patch. Are we still on? XO Violet
from sparkspark :
I like the brain/planet idea. And... have fun at Ikea! XOXO Violet
from captvfirefly :
Yikes, that dream was definitely odd. Don't you hate waking up to start your day after those kind of dreams? Ugh. And? I am so jealous that you have an Ikea near you. The closest one to me is in Pennsylvania. Have a great time! I'll be with you in spirit. :)
from captvfirefly :
I just realized I hadn't clicked on your Flickr stream to see the Halloween pictures. The kids costumes were totally adorable! And? The new path is beautiful! So creative.
from captvfirefly :
Am I the only one who finds it ironic that we here in Ohio vote in CHURCHES? Talk about separation of church and state. haha I voted in a Jewish temple....
from rs536-2000 :
I don't know about the medal. Probably as a prop in an elaborate lie. I'll have to cehck out the Onion...but your title beats all.
from rs536-2000 :
I like your story and I enjoy your writing. But for an only child the idea is beyond comprehension. I had the same feeling I had when I watched 16 candles and couldn't believe that Molly Ringworm's parents forgot her bday...And then I laugh because if had had a younger sister I would try to leave her at Safeway.
from rs536-2000 :
I thought of you and your advice towards the end. Damn, was it helpful!
from amblus :
Your short story sounds...familiar. Hmph.
from harri3tspy :
Oh, no! Not Scribbletown! She's no dummy. Neither are you, for that matter -- the story is lovely. But after the lead-in, I found myself trying to figure out if it was you or your sister who got left at the supermarket.
from captvfirefly :
"I'm still loading" HAHAHA!! I love it! That Dusty, she's got some serious spunk. :)
from sparkspark :
I love it.
from captvfirefly :
What a fantastic story! My mom lost my sister in a department store once, but I was too young to remember it. Heh. Thank you for sharing!
from dandydandy :
I love this story. The visuals are superb!
from rs536-2000 :
did anyone ever tell you that you're brilliant? That's the best motivation I've heard in a looongg time.
from harri3tspy :
Perhaps what we should be doing is writing The Mean Mommy Handbook: The Essential Guide to Banishing Your Kids from Scribbletown
from harri3tspy :
Is there a Scribbletown equivalent for mean mommies? Mommies who plot and scheme to make sure their children are nourished and exercised and homeworked to death? Because, really, I think I might want to go there. Especially if they serve cocktails. And maybe sushi.
from rs536-2000 :
Because they can't be saved? That is the most moronic thing I've ever heard.
from amblus :
Hey, at least he's listening to you! Even if he doesn't agree, at least you're making him think differently about stuff that most people take for granted.
from rs536-2000 :
Yes, I am too. This was a great entry!
from captvfirefly :
Hey, I'm still out here! :)
from elgan :
You've been so good about leaving me comments, I thought it was time I left you one. Toodles!
from legalbeagle :
OMG - Lewis Black & the candy corn rant! RIGHT ON! Also, see this: http://www.theonion.com/content/node/33754
from rs536-2000 :
Happy Candy! Hope you have fun tonight.
from readersguide :
Yes. After 20 years at this one, though, I'm quite sure I don't want her to come here ...
from readersguide :
You are completely right -- I feel like this whole trip was planned at a time most inconvenient to me. I SHOULD have said no -- I knew it would be awful. But I didn't, and now I'm POUTING about it (which I HATE). I was temporarily sucked into it because I knew the sisters would want to go and because my stepfather had recently died and ... because I'm an idiot. However, I am going to be kind to myself. Maybe it will be good for K and the girls to spend some time alone. Most likely the plane will not crash and I will return in just over a week. I'll bring lots of yarn and books and just ignore, ignore, ignore. And look at the scenery. Thanks!
from rs536-2000 :
i agree about the hose. disgusting.
from harri3tspy :
Hey, they're inaugurating our president today too. In the pouring rain. Did I mention the party's outside? And it's 40 degrees?
from captvfirefly :
I laughed out loud at the taser line! I could just see you tasering those old coots. Heh. And? I hate pantyhose! They are the work of the devil.
from rs536-2000 :
Dusty rules! Good job.
from captvfirefly :
Congrats to Dusty on the award! And? I love that coat! I was just noticing that mine is starting to wear thin - it probably doesn't help that my mom's cat attacks it every time I go over there...
from sparkspark :
Go, Dusty, go! And... fab coat, Miss. XO Vio
from rs536-2000 :
the cold is crappy. but less crappy than the heat...or so I console myslef.
from amblus :
We are lacking a functional furnace right now so the temperature inside has been a brisk 53 degrees. I feel your winter hatred.
from sparkspark :
Oh, fair Stupid... long may he run. XOXO Violet
from rs536-2000 :
I didn't know that they still had those book fairs. Death to the bimbo frat boy--yay, Dusty!
from harri3tspy :
I'm glad I'm not the only one who played with dismembered body parts of dolls. Go, Dusty, Go. Also, I love that white bean soup recipe. I may have to make some soon. Yum.
from rs536-2000 :
I think that looking up and snarling "step the f*** back" is standard. Yelling...not so standard.
from rs536-2000 :
white bean soup sounds great!
from amblus :
The alpacas didn't get dressed up until after lunch, but it was worth the wait. I got pictures!
from rs536-2000 :
I am the closest thing that the bride is having to an attendant, so I think I need to look less casual than usual. I'll be glad when it's over.
from readersguide :
hooray!
from rs536-2000 :
Congrats on the shrinkage. I have to say that the PR finale was a disappointment. I had to agree that Jeffrey had the best collection, though he is the biggest jerk of all!
from captvfirefly :
That is fantastic news about the shrinking cyst! I imagine you are quite relieved. Enjoy the festival this weekend! I'm taking my sister and Yukon with me to my company picnic (Sister is my "+1"). Yukon is excited to go on a hay ride with "Aunt Noren" (for some reason she can't say the "L" in my name, yet she can swear. Haha). It should be loads of fun.
from amblus :
I'm relieved to hear that you're in the clear. Now you can look forward to alpacas in costume!
from rs536-2000 :
Not such a big deal. On other topics, I think "invented spelling" is the devil.
from captvfirefly :
It sounds like the meeting with Dusty's teacher went pretty well! I guess it's a wait and see thing - until she comes out of her shell a bit more. Oh! And PR? It's REALLY hard to accept the fact that such an asshole won. I mean, even if he does have talent, why does he have to be such a jerk? I'm sad that it's over. :( Also? I have to share - my sister told me that Yukon is now saying "damnit." She said, "But don't tell anyone" - like NO child in the universe has EVER repeated a swear word? HAHA I said, "Well, does she know how to use it?" and my sister replied, "Well, she was with mom(grandma) playing with her blocks, and she accidentally knocked them over. She said, "Aww, damnit!" and mom had a REALLY hard time not laughing." I think my sister would rather Yukon speak with the German emphasis than in swear words. Heh.
from rs536-2000 :
You "spoiled" me!!!! I planned to watch tonight. ARGH!! [though I suspected]
from rs536-2000 :
After all the roast beef rhapsodies, I ate hummus, tofu, potato and salad for lunch... but no ice cream yet.
from rs536-2000 :
I'm with you, but being childless, I think I should keep my opinion to myself.
from rs536-2000 :
I'm with you, but being childless, I think I should keep my opinion to myself.
from captvfirefly :
If I make it out to Virginia, you are absolutely on my list of people to see! As long as I can take a metro/train/whatever the hell you guys have out there to meet you somewhere. I'll keep you posted!
from rs536-2000 :
Yeah, I've never liked it even w/o sugar. My mom only recently told me that I spat it out as a baby. I think that the only sweet things I like are desserts/fruit--no sweet vegs. Yeah...I dk about the poo. I wonder how that can happen when there are bathrooms every couple of miles throughout the course.
from rs536-2000 :
Cooked sweet potatoes are the devil. Good job, Red!
from rs536-2000 :
Cooked sweet potatoes are the devil. Good job, Red!
from readersguide :
Me, again. That does sound better. Poor Dusty. (Poor you!)
from sparkspark :
I had, at one time, a great illustrated book on mushrooms. Unfortunately, extended study of the illustrations inspired a creepy revulsion on my part, for the mushrooms. They all started to look sinister and poisonous. It is possible that a) my imagination is vivid to a tiresome degree, or that b) the pages were impregnated with psilocybin. Psylocibin? That stuff, that stuff that is inside certain mushrooms. XOXO Violet
from amblus :
Sharks ain't beautiful.
from rs536-2000 :
Glad that there's some progress happening.
from readersguide :
me again -- why does she have to read out loud? Why can't she read something, and then have them ask her questions about it? Seems like that would be a way of proving that she's reading -- Okay, I'll be quiet now!
from readersguide :
Maybe she could go read to nobody off the back porch or something? I don't know -- just be careful, because I can tell you from bitter experience that you never really win these battles. It's also sort of funny that you're having all these troubles because she actually can read -- I had similar troubles because M couldn't -- I remember many tortuous hours sitting on the couch trying to get her to read Little Goddamn Bear. After half an hour of silence she'd come out with some perceptive comment about the point of view in the illustration. Gah! (She was right, of course.)
from rs536-2000 :
Good luck, whatever happens. Public school is a trial for parents of smart kids.
from readersguide :
Hmmm. I don't know what to say, except that I sympathize. I also have a shy, stubborn, smart kid. (Two, actually.) Maybe I do have one piece of advice -- don't worry too much about it. Having been worn out by child 1, I'm pretty relaxed about child 2. It may be a difference in temperament, but I think child 2 benefits from not being pestered (in fact, from having her homework be sort of ignored. Somehow I think that the fact that I ignore it leads to her doing it.) But also, maybe just let her be. She knows how to read. Maybe she hates to read out loud -- lots of kids do, actually. I did, too -- it's so slow! Just let her be and don't stress, and offer her lots of fun and interesting things to do outside of school. I think you actually learn a lot more outside of school than you do in it, even under the best of circumstances. Also, if it's a dumb assignment, it's a dumb assignment. I don't think you're condemning her to a life of criminal behavior if you agree with Dusty that reading Ride a cock horse three times out loud is a waste of time. Really. Believe me, you have many many years of stupid stupid homework ahead of you --
from rs536-2000 :
As a fellow STUBBORN MULE, I guess you know that while this is a BIG ISSUE your daughter will be digging in her heels and refusing. And if your husband is stubborn too and she has a double stubborn gene? Oy vey. [i know this is all easy for me to say in my childless state of being.] I feel bad for everyone that because of school you are gonna need to deal with this soon. Both you and Dusty have my sympathy.
from sparkspark :
What a bizarre bumper sticker. Are you supposed to pass the car, beeping and giving the thumbs-up to indicate that you, too love candles? Or maybe extending a lit match? Damn. Anyway, I was amused by the Great Salad Incident of 2006. I hope there will be further installments as the drama continues. XOXO Violet
from amblus :
Yankee Candles are so poisonous that I can't even walk past a store selling them. I get that burning-sinuses feeling and feel woozy. How people can bring those things into their house is beyond me.
from rs536-2000 :
Ridiculous. People and their stinky crap!
from harri3tspy :
You bet. I probably won't get to it until Thursday afternoon -- the train seems to be particularly useful for editing projects. Is that okay? And I love the rant, and totally agree, obviously.
from captvfirefly :
All of those articles on parenting and what parents "should" be doing freak me out. You try to keep them safe and stimulated, and now you're supposed to worry about raising "successful" children? WTH does that mean? And why is everyone telling you how to raise your children when I'd be willing to bet that many of these article writers don't even HAVE children. Being responsible for a tiny human being is stressful enough without hearing "advice" from "experts." Parenting is certainly not for the weak.
from rs536-2000 :
She does. I have a few lying around which I can send you if you're interested. The books are much longer than you'd expect...and in the books Lynley is blond!
from rs536-2000 :
I like your limerick. Hope it wins!
from harri3tspy :
Weird. It's fine now, but before when I tried to click through it gave me a password prompt box. Must have been a momentary glitch.
from harri3tspy :
Have a great time at the conference. I can't wait to read about it.
from rs536-2000 :
This is how my "auntie" describes the woman and it's unusual for her to be that negative.
from rs536-2000 :
I'm happy to look also, though Harriet is more skilled than I.
from harri3tspy :
I'd be happy to take a look, if you like. I think you still have my email, but if you don't, leave me a note.
from captvfirefly :
Hey, I live in Columbus and I don't even get the day off. Hmph. Also, I have no doubt that Dusty's interim report card will be nothing but stellar. That kid is a genius. :)
from rs536-2000 :
Yeah, a hat is NOT what of think of when I think of Keith. I'm sure that your muffins are delicious, despite Red's confusion.
from harri3tspy :
I wish we had voicemail. That sounds great. We do get a newsletter from AJ's teacher every Friday that says what they did all week. But I still feel in the dark much of the time. I'm jealous of those classroom mothers with time to volunteer.
from captvfirefly :
I love the Snapshot idea! It's a good way to stay in the loop. And? Those tulips are gorgeous! I just love 'em. :)
from legalbeagle :
I LOVED ZIPPY!!!!! That book made me so happy. I was sorry it ended. Have you ever read the Edmund Morris books about Teddy Roosevelt? I dig 'em.
from rs536-2000 :
I'll have to check out Mockingbird...it sounds great!
from rs536-2000 :
We were at the vet two weeks ago and she is fine. What happened was that it had been 5 or 6 since the last change of cat litter so she decided to poo and pee on the bathroom floor and when she does that, her fur gets wet. I'm sure that you didn't need that level of detail...
from sparkspark :
If only the grocery store carried leg lamps... you could use your coupon and light up your lives! XOXO Violet
from harri3tspy :
Great monkey and a fabulous name. Also, I love that baby sophie's website.
from rs536-2000 :
Nice monkey--Sir. Granville Monkey is a great name. I had one of those named Chester from Woodburn? Or Woodlawn? Over the weekend we passed a road with the same name as yours [this B D road in Salisbury, MA I believe] and I thought of you...
from captvfirefly :
Congrats on the grocery money prize! Free stuff is always great, especially when it's $100 worth. Also? I love the sock monkeys! They are so cool, as are you.
from sparkspark :
Your new pathway sounds like it'll be gorgeous--i hope you'll post a picture! XO Violet
from rs536-2000 :
At least you're willing to consider the feedback. My mom spend years denying to teachers that I was shy at school. Years of therapy for me...SO SAD!
from harri3tspy :
You can have your very own glow-in-the-dark skeleton pajamas -- there's an adult version available online only: http://www.gymboree.com/shop/dept_item.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=3495451&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2704071&bmUID=1158846860993&productSizeSelected=0
from captvfirefly :
I love the pictures, especially the one where Dusty is getting on the bus. :) Also, I've seen countless examples of kids behaving completely different when they are with someone other than their parents. Who knows why, but I'm guessing it's because they know YOU and how far they can (and will) push you, but they don't know the limits with teachers/sitters/etc.
from rs536-2000 :
It is QUITE a racket. At least I don't feel personally attacked...
from rs536-2000 :
This was a sad and beautiful entry, though I do wish you hadn't made me cry. I particularly love this: �Nnnnnnn!� Dusty whined and twisted her body away from me. She�s very protective of her personal parts. We grow farther apart.
from fluttrbykiss :
I LOVE the *Scribbletown Manifesto*!!! You are so brilliant... (((huggles)))
from captvfirefly :
I remember going down to the neighborhood kids houses to play, ride bikes, etc., but now? It's not as carefree as that, but I think it may depend quite a bit on the neighborhood. Then again, I don't think I'd trust OTHER people to not do something to my child if I let her explore and play with friends the way we all used to. It makes you really dislike the world and most people. Ugh. Also? I just saw that picture of you and your sister vs. Red and Dusty and WOW! That is pretty uncanny. :)
from rs536-2000 :
I think this column from our local paper captures what parents in my neighborhood are dealing with: http://www.brooklynpapers.com/html/issues/columns/smartmom/_vol29/29_28smartmom.html
from rs536-2000 :
I'm thinking that Red will grow out of it before Pumpkie does. [sighs] I guess i should be happy that she doesn't poo in the living room, but there are no rugs there anymore (and no bathmat in the bathroom) because of her.
from the-it-man :
The problem with doctors is they are so precautious but only for their benefit. They dont care that your crapping yourself. As long as they cant sue you for them not warning you. What is the world coming too.
from harri3tspy :
C is definitely for cyst. What was she thinking? People are idiots.
from amblus :
Shit, dude. Your doctor sucks with a capital C.
from fluttrbykiss :
(((huggles)))
from rs536-2000 :
Yeah, c is for cyst ONLY. Damn doctors.
from captvfirefly :
I really wish doctors remembered their pre-doctor years when THEY relied on news from THEIR doctors. Meaning, she should not have used the phrase, "This worries me." I mean, there are other ways you can say it. Anyway, seriously, it sounds like a cyst. And until they do other tests, I'd just try really hard to assume it was nothing. Even though I know how hard that is. Ok, now I'm rambling. It will be ok. And just for a quick grin ... I told my sister about Red's habit of taking dumps on your floor, and my sister said, "I HOPE Yukon doesn't do that! I never even thought about it!!" So, she has been warned. Heh. Kids are fun. xoxo
from rs536-2000 :
I really like the 12 or 13 songs. Glad you got it!
from harri3tspy :
"Christ on the half-shell" -- I think I may have found my new favorite way to curse. The picture is great.
from rs536-2000 :
That's a cute photo. And I love you and your sister's gas stories. And I cannot WAIT for Survivor to start. Thanks for the note; I feel very accomplished.
from rs536-2000 :
It's really going to help me keep my spirits up to have people rooting long distance. Thanks!
from rs536-2000 :
Nice website!! Feel better soon, i hope.
from sparkspark :
Kittens! Stripey kittens! Get lots of stripey, spotty kittens! I'm going to live vicariously through you if you do, as if that is any kind of incentive. XO Violet
from amblus :
Get her one of these: http://www.amazon.com/CLEAN-STEP-LITTR-BX-TITANTAN/dp/B0002DH8L4/sr=8-2/qid=1157636423/ref=pd_bbs_2/002-6411295-7741627?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden
from captvfirefly :
I'm so sorry to hear about the crappy situation. And I really don't mean to laugh, but when I read, "�Oh yeah, well who took a shit behind the sofa, huh? Not me, that�s for sure!�", I snorted with laughter. I'm still laughing every time I read it. (I'm sorry!) I hope the potty training thing kicks into gear soon!!
from rs536-2000 :
Sorry about the poo. Maybe when it gets cold it won't be so tempting? Anyway, it sounds...crappy.
from fluttrbykiss :
Glad Dusty had a good day. I was thinking about y'all all day. I understand about that bus confusion. Anyway, LOVE the pics of you and the girls. Also, LOVED Dusty's drawings!! She is very good, for only being in kindergarten... (((huggles)))
from rs536-2000 :
Sure. I'm embarrassed to admit that I would not have thought of that. It's a nice thick liner booklet.
from rs536-2000 :
Hope Dusty had a great day. I just got that cartoon CD--I like the first half. I'll send along a copy later this week. I'm not sure if Dusty will like it--it's mostly nostalgic, I would guess. Thanks for the note about Pumpkie--I am concerned.
from fluttrbykiss :
Awwww... Congrats on Dusty's first day of Kiddie-garten. I remember those days ohh so well. I LOVE the Scribbletown story!! You have such a talented imaginative daughter. (((huggles)))
from harri3tspy :
I would have been a basketcase if I'd had to put AJ on a bus. I'm having enough trouble with the fact that I don't get to see AJ's classroom and teachers every day, but at least I know that he walks in and out of his school. Good luck getting through today! I hope Dusty's having a marvelous time.
from captvfirefly :
Aww! Even though I don't have any kids, I know how important this day is, and how it can be sad. Hell, even I got teary eyed reading it! But, I'm sure she's just fine. :) She's a smart one. And you'll get to hear all about it tonight!
from amblus :
A milestone! She's so fantastic and will have everyone in that school eating out of her hand.
from rs536-2000 :
That's a good question. I guess I hope that at least one of them isn't impossibly difficult.
from rs536-2000 :
I love the part about tossing the babies out. She's sounds like quite a character.
from rs536-2000 :
That sucks!! You need another napping day. You need to go on strike. yeah...ok...that wasn't helpful, but i AM sorry you have to labor.
from harri3tspy :
Let's hear it for THOSE parents! We're keeping teachers across America on their toes! Hope you're feeling better soon.
from captvfirefly :
I hope you're starting to feel better with all those drugs! :) Oh, and my sister is a teacher (6th grade), and honestly, she WISHES more parents were that involved. So, don't worry about being "that" parent; I think it's a good thing!
from sparkspark :
I hope you feel better soon, Bella. Try taking four times the recommended dose of cough syrup--it worked wonders for me! XOXO Violet
from rs536-2000 :
Hope you feel better soon. Have you tried Sudafed?
from smedindy :
Don't worry. A couple of times I put my boxers on the wrong way, and you'd think I'd notice THAT, eh?
from irreverent1 :
I'm SO glad that everything with Dusty's after school care worked out. And I hope the stress starts going away, too.
from harri3tspy :
I love Labyrinth. Bowie and Muppets: what more do you need?
from irreverent1 :
I absolutely LOVE David Bowie in Labrynth! Now I have "Dance Magic Dance" in my head. :) As for funny movie suggestions? Hmm, my "funny" tends to lean more towards low brow humor than anything of substance, but whenever I'm down I tend to watch Dodgeball. Or The Princess Bride. Or if I really want to escape, I break out the Sex and the City DVD's. If I think of anything else, I'll let you know.
from rs536-2000 :
Jeffrey is such a dick. The ep made me like Vincent more, since he was so solicitous. I note with amusement [and agreement] that on the list of "future OK things for Red and Dusty" that neither born-again Pentecostal nor Republican senator from Virginia appears. Love that.
from irreverent1 :
Yes, he should burn forever for what he's done. Immediately. I'm sure it's hard NOT to think about it ... I'm so sorry. xoxo
from amblus :
You pretty much wrote what I've been thinking all morning. There's no other way.
from rs536-2000 :
I hope he burns forever (says the atheist). The accounts I've read are unbelievably awful. And how dare the murderer's father talk about 'the Lord'--it's disgusting.
from rs536-2000 :
I agree, but i'll take what I can get for now.
from rs536-2000 :
I agree, but i'll take what I can get for now.
from rs536-2000 :
BTW--I think that it's Liza Minnelli singing Steam Heat on the CD you sent. Here's a link to the Judy Garland show that it may be from: http://users.deltacomm.com/rainbowz/jgs15.html
from rs536-2000 :
Aww, that sounds awful. Sorry about the party and your toe.
from harri3tspy :
We made some extra planets out of clay this afternoon while waiting for cookies to bake. Now we're prepared! As for obsolete globes, I grew up with my mom's childhood globe, which still had things like The Belgian Congo on it. It never bothered me much. I kind of liked knowing that I knew more than the globe. Or something like that. We're all for solar system mobiles. We have many -- one that AJ made himself, two paper ones with NASA photos of the planets (gifts from two different people) and a 3-D plastic model. The latter one isn't currently hanging, however, because the planets keep falling off onto AJ's head. We have to figure out a better hanging mechanism.
from sparkspark :
I love the idea of Condiment World. I've always thought that Worcestershire should be taken down a peg, that insufferable snob. XO Violet
from smedindy :
Join the weird kid club!
from kungfukitten :
Normally I'm not totally into entries about other people's children, but here is an unbiased opinion: your daughter is a genius. It's going to be fun seeing the wonderful things she does when she grows up. All those thick thoughts in her head are going to create amazing things. ;)
from harri3tspy :
Okay, I finally have some time to respond to your last couple of entries. First, The Princess Bride was one of my most favorites as a kid as well. I discovered it myself when I was probably around 11 or 12 on the shelves of the school library. I had never heard of it before, but when I checked it out, our fabulous school librarian eyed it fondly and said it had been one of her favorite and she thought I'd like it too. It was out of print at the time and I checked it out so often that I sometimes considered pretending to lose the book so I could just keep it. But eventually it came back in print. Second, per your boredom entry, someone is clearly trying to get our hackles up and I find that interesting in and of itself. The whole stigma against housework is kind of fascinating as well. I wouldn't categorize myself as as SCAM (oy!), but by some measures I would be considered one -- I stay at home, I do a lot of cooking, bake my own bread, etc. But as you said, I cook because I like to eat. I don't make my own cards, but would if I thought I had the time because it's fun. It's not about being better or worse. And yes, while I try not to make too many value judgments about parenting, I draw the line at parents who try to avoid their children. That's just bad parenting and selfishness. I have no qualms about pointing the finger of shame at them. Third, per your recent comment, I don't keep lists, but sometimes I wish I did. I have appointed myself historian for my bookgroup -- I keep the master list of books we've read over the years. That's a lot of fun.
from rs536-2000 :
Jane Eyre and Charlotte's Web. I wish that I had written both of those. I'll have to add Princess Bride to my list--if the book is better than the movie, I'll be sure to like it...
from bluemeany :
Woo hoo! You got a bunch of them right! And 1) Yes, I take pride in knowing that that was possibly the Worst Mix Ever; 2) No, you didn't have to post it in my notes section, but you do have to extend the challenge to someone else.
from rs536-2000 :
i like the princess and the giraffe. too bad the princess isn't riding the giraffe.
from irreverent1 :
I love Dusty's drawings! I think that's the best damn giraffe I've ever seen. :) That kid has talent! Oh, and I had to chuckle at your comments on some of those songs ... "Wha?" heh I've never thought about doing a mystery mix .. good idea...
from fluttrbykiss :
Is #17 Toby Keith's *Taliban song*??? Country?? Hmmmm... Can't wait to see Meany's answers... lol... Nice try though... Dusty has awesome drawing ability... ;o)
from harri3tspy :
Oh, I hate those damn ATVs. The loud boys across the street, ages about 10 and 12, tear around on theirs when they're not going down the big hill in front of our house on their backs on their skateboards or doing something else that's setting a bad example for AJ. They roar down the bridle path between our stream and the horse pasture behind our house scaring up flocks of birds and making us wish we had earplugs. Ugh.
from irreverent1 :
I'm glad you were able to enjoy the nice evening last night because there is some more humidity coming your way. It's not as hot, but the humidity - it's like breathing through a wool sweater. I just thought I'd warn you. Also? When you talk about the kids like that, it kind of makes me want to have kids of my own ... except for the Godzilla parts. haha
from irreverent1 :
I love the "Reminiscence" entry! I think I got lost there in your memory for a moment, too (which is good, since I need the escape at the moment). Also, have I thanked you lately for your advice and friendship? Because it means a lot to me. Really. Thank you. :)
from rs536-2000 :
true--I would have been enraged...and I prefer to save that for other people.
from amblus :
Good entry. I love memory d�j� vu.
from harri3tspy :
One of my mother's friends once gave me a big bag of odd buttons for some reason. I adored them. I used to play with them all the time. I still have them. I've made jewelry out of a few and have added a few contributions of my own. Now AJ plays with them. When he was smaller we made paper plates with numbers on them and he would count out the correct number of buttons. Now we use them for the occasional math problem but mostly they just get played with. I haven't thought to teach him sewing with them, though maybe I should. My husband never learned to sew on buttons and I really think that is something everyone should know how to do.
from rs536-2000 :
Thanks--I really don't like racing, I like the excuse to train...so I need all the positive thoughts I can get!
from irreverent1 :
Hey, you can come over and paint my bathroom any time! :) I'm also jealous of your veggies - I just bought some squash and zucchini at the store last night because I can't have a garden at my condo. :( Well, they SAY I can't have one of those patio gardens, but I think next year I'm going to try it. Also? Dusty looks SO thrilled in that picture where she's eating lunch. :) Her chalk drawing is fantastic! I wish my sister fostered more artistic, literary, and creative pursuits with Yukon. Then again, her mother is none of those things, so why should she? I am evil, I know. :)
from harri3tspy :
I did finally get mine cut after writing that entry. But it's true, I usually go 2-3 times a year. Not because my person's expensive or my hair grows slowly but because I just never get around to it. It's partly rebellion for having to give up my old hairdresser who is now cutting hair for models and charges an obscene amount (triple digits) and is far enough away that it takes the better part of a day to go there. As for the pictures, I'm insanely jealous of your garden. I wish I had vegetables. I grow tomatoes in pots, but we have too much shade and hill for a good veggie garden in the yard and I'm too lazy to schlep down to the victory gardens a mile down the road to put my veggies there. Red looks like Cindy Lu Who with the topknot. And Dusty's drawing is AMAZING.
from rs536-2000 :
Oh, now I'm jealous. I'm sure that in 6 weeks I'll be happy with the longer hair...if I still have it.
from irreverent1 :
Congratulations on all of the milestones -200th entry, 2 years on Dland, and most importantly - quitting smoking! Time sure does fly, doesn't it? I can't believe it's been 2 years. And? I felt your sadness at having your drives with Dusty cut short in September ... I love reading your documentation of her random banter, so I can imagine how you feel to hear it in person. I'm sure she'll have all kinds of new things to talk about though. Also? This heat can bite me. Stay cool, my friend!
from rs536-2000 :
You're welcome. It's actually an old CD. I don't have the new one yet...sad to say.
from femme-inine :
Here! Here! I so agree on the TV issue ... the boys got TV as a treat - and it was usually a movie, not regular TV with all those commercials!
from rs536-2000 :
I bet I could do that...thanks!
from rs536-2000 :
Listening to the transit CD now--it's a lot of fun. I don't eat tofu because I don't know how to press it easily. Recently a friend was telling me her method, which involved a brick. I got no bricks lying around.
from readersguide :
Back again -- I do know what you mean about full day. What happens, though, I think, is that when you send your kid to kindergarten they are suddenly mixed in with the kids of parents who don't both work, so they suddenly realise that not everyone spends all day at school -- which sort of changes things. But also, the teachers are also not dealing exclusively with the kids of working parents, and because academic expectations are so high, even in kindergarten, your kids are more exhausted by the end of the day, and then they have homework! So it starts to become impossible to leave them in school all day. And then by first grade you are truly sunk. Or I was, anyway -- because here is more homework, and more exhaustion, and if you pick them up at 6, you get dinner made by 8, after which it is really a rush to even get them in bed by 9 -- not allowing for the two hours of homework (it takes longer when done by a tired and hungry kid.) And then there is really no time at all for fun reading, or important drawing -- not to mention soccer practice or piano practice -- all of which is sort of impossible to avoid entirely. I don't know -- it's all theoretically possible, and it certainly also depends on the school and your kids, but it seemed to me that my kids have required more and more time from me (with me not at work, that is) the older they've gotten. And there's a certain growing need for time at home spent quietly, too -- But, you know, it's probably different for every family. I do remember that sending N off to kindergarten felt as momentous as I think sending her off to college will feel. And I suppose it really was ... I hope Dusty loves it!
from rs536-2000 :
I don't like squash or any kind unless it's masquerading as something else. I also can't eat anything cream-based. I love both artichokes and pesto.
from rs536-2000 :
I'd love to hear what your favorite Veggie Pasta recipe is. Yeah, depression is a good tool for weight loss. So is sleeping.
from irreverent1 :
Did you get my email yesterday? I got your note and wondered if you still had a question for me?
from harri3tspy :
Sorry, I really didn't mean to hijack your comments. In fact, today's entry started as a comment here. But it was clearly getting too long for a comment. But you started me thinking. Or rather, you reminded me about things I've been thinking about.
from readersguide :
At least here, in Academia, California, kindergarten has changed completely. For me, kindergarten was about learning how to follow instructions in a group, I think. Really, it was about as sophisticated as my kids' preschool was. But now, it is really academic. If you don't learn to read by the time you're done with kindergarten, you are really sunk, because by first grade you are reading Harry Potter. Really! I think it's nuts. This trend continues -- my 10th grade daughter took college chemistry last year. Anyway -- I'm not in favor of being as bored as I was in school, but I'm really not in favor of being as pushed as my kids are. It doesn't leave you the kind of time and space to develop your own interests . Well, I especially remember how useful periods of extreme boredom can be toward making you come up with ways to amuse yourself. I don;t know -- somewhere there's a happy medium, but I'm not exactly sure where it is, or if it's in the same place for everybody.
from smedindy :
Ah, well, uh, I've been busy. Fiscal year end and all...
from irreverent1 :
I've never heard of that PIU place, thankfully. It sounds absolutely awful, and I'm sorry you had to experience it! At least Dusty seems to have shared (somewhat) your feeling about it, so no more of that evil place. I know the feeling of being up and down ... all I can say is to hang in there. It gets better. It sounds like movie therapy is the way to go when things get really bad.
from harri3tspy :
I, too, have been feeling lately like Binx Bolling has the right idea. Your description of Pump it Up, by the way, is pretty much my description of Chuck E Cheese. Pump it Up doesn't bother me nearly as much. I think it's because AJ just tears around having so much fun -- he could bounce all day. I find the Cheese much more depressing -- all of its electronic media creep me out. AJ's not really wild about them either. We usually end up playing skee ball until he feels like he has enough tickets to go home.
from rs536-2000 :
I'm sorry to hear that. Damn--it is never easy!
from fluttrbykiss :
My $0.02 on the subject of your writing is.. As I believe I've told you before.. It's awesome!! You really have talent. You are a wonderful writer. And that's all I have to say about that... ((((huggles))))
from harri3tspy :
Ditto on the play-like qualities of Cherry Pie. I like it too. I also think the traditional evolutionary structure of the short story is not imperative, particularly in really short stories -- the longer the work, the more process you need, I think. Also, yay for Carson McCullers. I only read her for the first time within the last year, but I thought A Member of the Wedding was one of the most perfect books I've ever read. I haven't read Heart yet, but hope to get to it soon.
from captvfirefly :
I thought it was definitely a story, and I liked it! You should post more of them (so I can feel grossly inadequate in comparison. hehe)!
from rs536-2000 :
I love the dialogue...it seemed more like a scene in a play than a story, but I enjoyed it a lot. And thanks for the CD!!
from readersguide :
I like it!
from rs536-2000 :
I do like how the prince has to contact the police. That's pretty funny.
from rs536-2000 :
Yes...good job Dusty, turn everything into a refrigerator!!! Spicy roses...that's an interesting concept. And a great name for her rock band.
from amblus :
We all subscribe to the finger counting method - if it's bigger than ten, who needs it?
from femme-inine :
The lack of math genes is abundant in my gene pool. I can barely divide if the number is too big! :( And I'm *smart*! My IQ (if that's any indicator) is 130. And I can not do the simplest math. I blame it entirely on calculators.
from rs536-2000 :
I agree. I find it tough because I have my mental hippie in one side of my head and my mental drug rep on the other side. Hard to focus in those circumstances, but I have high hopes.
from harri3tspy :
It's hard to argue with "Rubber Biscuit." I seriously wish Dusty could come over and play with AJ. He is sorely disappointed that The Girl Next Door is not at all interested in space, aliens or otherwise.
from rs536-2000 :
Summer is a sucky time. This happens to me every year...you're supposed to be happy, but instead the cloud comes and sits over the head. Hope you [and Dusty] feel betetr soon!
from captvfirefly :
Oh Dusty! I hope she heals quickly, and I'm glad she's OK! I'd also like to tell you that based upon your Entry 'o Doom (the CEC story), I informed my sister that she better not EVER have a birthday party for Yukon at that establishment. WE never had parties there as kids, and Yukon will grow and thrive and have fun without the CEC experience. Not until she's 18, at least. heh And I just have to tell you that your thoughts on parents having the parties at their own home was brilliant. I mean, if you're that worried about your messy house and the potential for stains on your carpet, I'm thinking child rearing shouldn't have been high on your list. So, I'm with you. But, you knew that. :)
from amblus :
Aw, poor Dusty! I hope she heals up quickly. I'm sure the Barbi3 helped.
from smedindy :
Oh, ouch! So sorry about the chin!
from portia12 :
Hi fresh, I didn't know that photos had been updated. The horse made me smile by his cute smile. I hope Red eats something more substantial. Thinking of you!
from harri3tspy :
Sorry, I didn't have time to look at the photos yesterday, seeing as I've done nothing but chauffeur AJ from engagement to engagement this week. We've got back to back birthday parties for his friends today and tomorrow. Tomorrow's is at Pump it Up. We've been there several times before for open play. It is far superior to the Chuck E Cheese experience. AJ adores it. It's not just moon walks There are inflatable obstacle courses, basketball courts, etc. My complaints about ours are that there are absolutely no places for the adults to sit, the stupid safety/indoctrination video they make the kids watch before they go in, and it's always 10 degrees below zero. Bring a sweater and wear comfy shoes. As for the taxes, I had the same thing happen with state income taxes a while back. In fairness to the boneheaded state of Indiana, I had worked in 3 different states that year. But I loved your letter. I should have sent one like that myself.
from readersguide :
Sorry about the bad day, and beautiful cake! Very beautiful cake!
from captvfirefly :
I saw the horse cake! And when I went to leave a comment, my browser crashed and I got distracted. But, enough of my rambling - the horse cake was AWESOME! My sister would be jealous because she loves all things horse (she just sold her horse a few months ago), and one day she will want to make a horse cake for Yukon (who tomorrow will be getting an Elmo cake. The horror!) and I'll have to show her the picture of YOUR cake in all it's splendor. And I also wanted to say that I can't believe how big the girls are getting! Dusty is all legs; you'll be beating the men off those two girls in no time. And Red! I keep thinking about her as her 1 year old self, and she's so grown up now! Man, I feel old. heh
from legalbeagle :
That. Horse. Cake. FUCKING! RULES! I like his smirk, especially. He's totally running the Derby in his mind. GIDDYUP!!!
from rs536-2000 :
I'm sorry, I hadn't seen the cake. It's so cute!! And yeah, the doll don't look like a Jewish doll to me, but doesn't matter to me. I can't wait to hear what Richmond has in store for you in the future.
from femme-inine :
Urgh. Sorry - I didn't go look at the cake! I'm sure it's lovely. It's definitely creative. ANd ... GREAT letter to the city. I can't wait to hear what they say in reply.
from smedindy :
Cute letter!
from rs536-2000 :
R'uh, roh. That's good to know. Hmm.
from freshhell :
Yeah, three's a little young to be able to spell.
from rs536-2000 :
I'd also have to hope that my kid would be smarter, though not as beautiful. I was surprised that she couldn't spell her name [4 letters]. Maybe that's unreasonable, though.
from harri3tspy :
Are you sure AJ and Dusty are not really twins somehow separated at birth? Really, this sounds all too familiar.
from harri3tspy :
I liked the Sting version. We have Sean Connery, since I have a bit of a crush on his voice. I've seen one too many Saturday Night Live episodes, though, so some of it makes me giggle. As for preschoolers who think they're teenagers, are you getting the, "Mom, you're embarrassing me!" lectures too? I wasn't expecting all this for another, oh, 8-10 years. My mother claims I was similarly teenagerish at his age but that I didn't do it as a teen. We can only hope.
from harri3tspy :
Wow, we should have a band come to our house too. Also, we have a Peter & the Wolf CD that has Sting as the narrator. Any chance that is what you heard?
from amblus :
Cute pictures! You know, we had that recording of Peter and the Wolf on vinyl when we were kids. I can't remember who the narrator is, though. (Bowie is better, natch.)
from rs536-2000 :
Yes, Dusty looks like you...except you look SO SERIOUS. Wow.
from rs536-2000 :
You gave me a good laugh...not that there's anything wrong with that!
from rs536-2000 :
I just saw that she's a lesbian and has done lots of queer events. I was surprised [because she's funnier than most of the lesbian comedians I've seen--isn't that a lovely thing to say?] She's funny for the reasons you've cited and I also think she's an incredibly versatile writer. Her pilot/urine bit last week had me crying.
from rs536-2000 :
Michele Balan is doing great!! It's very exciting.
from rs536-2000 :
I have to say it again: I love the way you write about motherhood and your children. It gives me a lot of hope. [And I'm still jealous about the reading to dogs project.]
from kungfukitten :
I worked at a day care center in high school and part of college. Aside from being an excellent form of birth control it taught me how to completely tune out the screaming and crying of children. I was at a restaurant with the ex and there was a crying child. My ex was having an absolute conniption fit and I couldn't figure out what was wrong with him. He finally said, "can't you hear that?!" "What?" I listened: people talking, baby crying, music over the speakers, car peeling out in the lot. "The kid won't shut up! It's driving me crazy." "Oh, that!" If they had a mute button all mother's would use them. Now you know why he's an ex. ;)
from rs536-2000 :
Those are fantastic gifts. I think that "Crazy on You" is one of the best songs ever!
from fluttrbykiss :
The Electric Company??? Are you kidding me??? OMG!! I used to LOVE that show when we watched it in school... Heyyyyy Yooouuu Guuuuyyysss!!! Hehe... Wow!!! The memories... Thanks for the laugh... ((((huggles))))
from harri3tspy :
Happy birthday. You can hang onto my black armband for next year, when I'll be passing out some of my own. I hope you have a great day.
from fluttrbykiss :
Happy Birthday!!! Hope you have a GREAT day!!! ((((huggles))))...
from captvfirefly :
Happy Birthday!!!!! And you made it sound like you were SO old, but I knew better. I hope you have a great day! And? You don't need no stinkin' black armband, you goof! :)
from rs536-2000 :
Happy birthday!!! I think June 21, is a great b-day. Better than February. And, as you know, it's just a number.
from smedindy :
Happy birthday. 40 ain't so bad. Look at ME! Ok. Maybe not. heh.
from rs536-2000 :
It would be nice to have some atheist fellowship, right? A club! For us non-joiners!
from captvfirefly :
I missed Red's birthday! :( Well, happy belated birthday to Red!! :) And? I'm sorry you're feeling bad. I know those random funks can really suck. I hope the fog lifts soon!
from smedindy :
I think every child needs a small tower, though. And do you kiss your children with that mouth? Heh....
from rs536-2000 :
Because I'm an imbecile, I left myself the note I intended for you...from yesterday... Actually, one day would be fine, i'm sure. How's your cake?
from rs536-2000 :
um...no? but the bubble wrap and sandbox photos are pretty charming.
from legalbeagle :
"with each child, you find a new kind of love that�s just been waiting around to be needed and used. You know how researchers claim we only use 10% of our brain? I think the heart is the same way. Each child claims another, previously unused, portion of it and makes it swell and rejoice in the extra love." This made me cry today. Yes, I'm still hormonal. And thank God I am because life is all about the Baby Birds, isn't it?
from amblus :
Aw, happy birthday, Red!
from harri3tspy :
A very happy birthday to Red!!
from fluttrbykiss :
That cake will be SOOO cool for Red... I know you can make it... can't wait to see. it...
from smedindy :
Well, don't put the horse head cake in the bed!
from amblus :
Sorry, I still think Hunky Dory is the best of the best when it comes to Bowie. I mean, Eight Line Poem? Life on Mars? DANG. It's the BEST. Ziggy Stardust is a close second and Station to Station is also, indeed, fantastic.
from smedindy :
Ah, but you see, I am more for buying albums as a thematic whole than just songs. I always go for the actual albums instead of greatest hits, because I believe in the cohesive unit. Yet, the downloading of songs is wrecking that, I feel. Ah, well.
from rs536-2000 :
Ziggy Stardust IS the "best of" Bowie, as far as I'm concerned. Have you read that there's going to be a one woman show of "magical thinking" that will INCLUDE the daughter's death. Oy.
from harri3tspy :
Ooh, that's exactly what we need: a tiny velvet rope. Just to keep that fish in line.
from harri3tspy :
I've been avoiding reading the Didion. Even without her daughter's death, I don't think I'm ready to take that. In some ways, I don't think that's the worst way for Dusty to hear about Ruby. Having a parent sit you down and tell you information like that carries a weight that a friend telling you about it does not. I hope she processes it well. Randomness is the most terrifying thing of all, I think. It's too bad she has to learn about it so young.
from rs536-2000 :
It sounds like you're not horrified when you look in the mirror. That's an excellent start... I'm with your sister in that dream...yeah.
from amblus :
It should really come as no surprise that one of my dreams in life is to have a walk-in closet room.
from rs536-2000 :
Hmmm...yeah, the martini factor. Since alcohol has been off-limits to me, my frustration level has climbed to new heights. I had forgotten about that.
from harri3tspy :
Their brains go to Mars, eh? Well, that would explain a lot.
from legalbeagle :
That "right on" by the massage dude reminds me of Billy Baldwin in "The Squid & The Whale" saying, "...my brother" at the end of every sentence. Way too funny!
from rs536-2000 :
i don't think that i'll be able to wear them to run in, but i'm excited to get them!
from harri3tspy :
What is it with Christians and crafts? Hobby Lobby plays hymns over the PA. I just spent an afternoon at a preschool graduation party where I discovered that many if not most of AJ's classmates are heading to Vacation Bible School. Maybe if they start them young they don't get a chance to figure out that they hate it.
from amblus :
Aw, happy pre-school graduation! I'm sorry I can't be there.
from rs536-2000 :
Damn, those fundies suck. They concoct evil everywhere they take themselves. I hate when stores cozy up to religion...Sieera Trading Post does it and it makes me SO SAD!
from legalbeagle :
Hey man...I go to church, but am not one of "those" Christians. WTF! Apparently, Mr. VBS never heard of "free will" and all that shit. I am terrified by that VBS shit on the Michael's website. Almost as terrifying as the James Dobson homepage and his Halloween suggestions (found here: http://www.focusonyourchild.com/entertain/art1/A0000636.html Be sure you click on the pumpkin link for an extra-special treat!!!)
from amblus :
Asparagus is awesome - you just crazy. Anyway, you'll love the massage! Good choice.
from captvfirefly :
Okra and asparagus are poisionous? Really? I have some asparagus in my freezer just waiting to be eaten .. say it ain't so! Also, have you decided what you're going to do for your big birthday? And when is it??? :)
from fluttrbykiss :
I like to garden also... Too bad everythig I touch dies... *sigh* It sounds like you had a lovely relaxing weekend... Good for you..
from harri3tspy :
Yay! I'm glad you all liked it. You have another diarylander, lass, to thank for "Rubber Biscuit." She's the one who recommended it to me. As for your mix, AJ now knows the words to almost all the songs and can generally be found singing either "One-eyed, one-horned flying purple people eater" or the Chiquita Banana song.
from captvfirefly :
I'm also throwing in my vote for the massage. I haven't done the pottery class, but I've had the reading, and I've had a massage. The reading was interesting, but could just cause stress (or at least over thinking) depending on what is said, and who wants stress on a major birthday? And massages are heavenly. It's definitely worth the money.
from harri3tspy :
Also, I had a sudden reinterpretation of the Great Green Room as the green kitchen from Sybil.
from harri3tspy :
Another vote for the massage. This is a major milestone we're talking about. Also, I love the rewrite of Runaway Bunny. I always thought that book was ominous. I'm glad I'm not alone.
from amblus :
Go for the massage. It's the ultimate luxury. If they offer a hot stone massage, even better. Trust me on this!
from rs536-2000 :
I'm with Dusty--I would love to be involved in a study in which I got to read to dogs. A nice Black Lab would be fine. I'm hoping to hear [a lot] more about this...
from harri3tspy :
Our local public library was involved in some kind of (I think) statewide program with kids reading to dogs. I thought it was a joke until I saw the dogs hanging out in the library. This did not, incidentally, make AJ happy. He is not a fan of dogs. But he has been known to read stories to his goldfish. I'm still waiting for the study that suggests that reading to dogs is beneficial for the dogs.
from rs536-2000 :
I'm RIGHT!! Thanks--that's nice to hear.
from readersguide :
Oh dear -- I meant goodwill bag and disappearing quarters (I think). I'd never read Anne of Green Gables, either, until I read them to the kids --
from readersguide :
I've just been putting in the goodwill bad all the remnants of those great trick things -- disapearing quarter, etc. N loved them! The exploding snake was particularly great -- Another set of books Dusty might like are the Anne of Green Gables books. She might be a bit young -- the language is a little flowery -- but both my girls really really loved them -- I think also because they're about life long ago.
from captvfirefly :
I LOVED the Laura Ingalls Wilder books as a kid. I must have read that set over 100 times. Then again, I already knew Dusty was that cool. :)
from rs536-2000 :
Nice, very nice, Snothead. I sent your CD on Friday so you should have it soon. Rosanne Cash plus a couple of other songs.
from legalbeagle :
Fucking brill'. The whole sibling thing always gets me. I came from a family of six kids and want to give my daughter at least one sibling - exactly for the idea of her future and how she won't have to deal with her crazy parents alone! Plus, one extra person to take me yarn shopping when I'm an old lady wouldn't hurt. And (back on the selfish side) the possibility of more GRANDCHILDREN!
from harri3tspy :
Another excellent post. You've summed up all my thoughts pro and con. Of course I'm still right in the middle. And your fabulous CD came a few minutes ago. Thank you so much! AJ was oohing and aahing over it. "Linus and Lucy" and the Oompa Loompa song are the ones he's most excited to hear. My CD is going out later today (I hope) as soon as I have a chance to get to the post office for some stamps.
from amblus :
The mom-hoarding freaks me out daily but I'm glad we have each other when the time comes to deal with it. You can hold the match box while I set the fire.
from rs536-2000 :
This was a wonderful entry and I enjoyed every word. Thanks for adding some balance to the agenda!
from captvfirefly :
I know I don't have child, but if I did, I'd hope I'd be as smart about it as you. You made so many fantastic points, I wish other people could be so open minded and view all sides of the issue like you have (mothers are women, not just mothers!). I'm afraid my sister will take the route of least diversity (because that's what she's most comfortable with, sadly), and that makes me sad for my niece. Anyway, I'm rambling. I just thought you'd like to know that I thought both of your entries were amazing and right on!
from rs536-2000 :
No matter what you do some dim [epithet] is going to think it's wrong. It amazes/saddens/enrages me that every intelligent woman gets hassled for what she does, no matter what "it" is. #!*
from harri3tspy :
This line of thought is overlapping greatly with a discussion I've been having with rs536-2000 over yesterday's entry at dooce.com. If you didn't read it, Heather was talking about thinking about having a second child. One of my comments to rs536 (we both thought dooce's entry seemed intelligent and honest) was that I think one of the great oversights is that mothers are women. Why is it necessarily selfish for women to chose not to have children or to have just one? I'm sure there's an urban/suburban split about this one, as many of my urban-dwelling friends have a single child. But out here, I feel am viewed with suspicion, that the fact that I have one child is supposed to be evidence of my inherent selfishness or laziness. There is a remarkable lack of tolerance about parenting, even among otherwise liberal and intelligent people.
from janitor-x :
From a longtime lurker...thank you for saying what needs desperately to be said to the airheaded new-age egomaniacs who somehow seem to gravitate toward me and my (few) social engagements. But I don't have kids so you can reject at will.
from harri3tspy :
Hear, hear! I could easily have written that entry myself. Except for the shoe tying. AJ still can't tie his own shoes. But I blame my own laziness for that one. And also velcro.
from harri3tspy :
How about a CD trade? I could send you a copy of the CD I made for AJ. Lots of 50s era rock, a little doo-wop, a little Simon & Garfunkel (At the Zoo), Petula Clark, and, er, George Thorogood (AJ loves "Bad to the Bone"). If you're interested, that is.
from rs536-2000 :
The second one is from American Idol. The dentist looks like a cross between the two--very scary!
from rs536-2000 :
sorry about the cramp in your style...but there's some logic in fearing the ocean. Unrepentant introverts--my people.
from bluemeany :
Hey! Your kids rule! Also, if you want a mix CD, e-mail me your address so I can get it to you, a'ight?
from devilsdealer :
Your girls are *adorable*! Here I was thinking, they are gonna be the COOLEST kids in school with names like Dusty and Red (which by extension, makes you ubercool mom for giving them those names) and lo and behold, I find out with the pictures that, in fact, those are nick names and their legal names are these beautiful french things that only add to the awesome. So lucky! (Y'all have fun!)
from fluttrbykiss :
I agree, wholeheartedly, YOUR KIDZ RULE!!! They are absolutely adorable... :o) Have fun at the beach!!
from harri3tspy :
I have black Sasha too. Which is kind of a family joke because my great grandmother gave her to me and she was kind of an outspoken racist. She thought Sasha was just really tan.
from smedindy :
Well, your kids do rule, but mine rule more! I would say that your kids probably have some of the kingdoms of Germany, while mine control the Holy Roman Empire and the Papal States. Heh...
from harri3tspy :
I thought I left a note yesterday, but apparently it didn't show up. The pictures are adorable. I especially love the close-up of Dusty. She's beautiful, but she really looks like a person, if you know what I mean. So much character in those big eyes. Also, I still have my Sasha doll from when I was a kid. My great grandmother, who was a seamstress, made her an enormous wardrobe. My nieces love her best of all the toys at my mother's house. They prefer my grannies lacy creations to Sasha's original 1970s denim pantsuit and red bandana.
from rs536-2000 :
Have a wonderful time at the beach. And I agree--Dusty looked great in her costume.
from captvfirefly :
I've said it before, but I'll say it again (since, you know, you like threatened me and stuff) - your kids are absolutely adorable! I love how Dusty's costume was different than all of the other kids. Because she is a star and of COURSE she should stand out! :) And Red. Wow, she's looking so grown up! The cutness. I can barely handle it. :)
from captvfirefly :
Have a great time at the beach!! :)
from smedindy :
Ah, Trustees! Ours are in next week, but fortunately, I have already got the Dean trained to look at the right numbers on the right reports. Heh!
from harri3tspy :
Laurie Keller's the one who wrote Scrambled States of America, which is one of AJ's all-time favorites. Indeed, one of AJ's favorite things about Arnie is a cameo appearance from Oklahoma, who somehow wandered into the wrong book and gets decorated with chocolate icing and sprinkles. I think we're going to have to buy Willy Wonk too, although I'm not sure who will insist on it most, me or AJ. It was such a pleasure to watch it with someone who was seeing it for the first time.
from rs536-2000 :
She should have looked them up because reading about the BB feuds is endless fun. At least for me. What is wrong with these youngsters?
from harri3tspy :
It's not just the doctor who asks. Everyone asks. My mother. Other moms at AJ's preschool. Virtual strangers. Everyone is in shock that someone might choose to have just one. Sometimes I feel like wearing a sign around my neck that says, "I don't know. Now BACK OFF!" Oy. Oh, and re the donuts, have you read Arnie the Donut by Laurie Keller? Another favorite in the donut genre. This one's about a donut who, when he finds out he's going to be eaten, escapes the bakery and eventually finds a home as a pet. We are huge fans of all of Laurie Keller's books in this house.
from rs536-2000 :
[small voice] I need donuts AND love.
from harri3tspy :
AJ loves Who Needs Donuts? as well, although I don't think it's for the message so much as for all the little details in the picture. He's also angling for a chemistry set. I, however, was too afraid of domestic explosions. Maybe next year.
from captvfirefly :
I'm with Smed. Heh. And even though it sounded traumatic, it still made me smile. I'm not trying to mock your pain, it's just.. your delivery. heh And? YAY computer! If you need anything else, just let me know. Hopefully I can help.
from smedindy :
I swear that children are bi-polar...
from rs536-2000 :
I also vote for no-phone-please. Sorry about the kid-woes, but I adored your 'running thin like generic maple syrup' simile. Beautiful. I'll be stealing that line.
from amblus :
What is with our phone phobia? I have it too and that's why I love my job - my phone almost never rings.
from harri3tspy :
Re: Chloe perfume. I spent in college as an intern in Research and Development for Elizabeth Arden (not out of any particular interest of mine, but through sheer nepotism). Among other things, I was in charge of checking the samples of perfume and makeup that they kept to see how long before they deteriorated so they knew how to set expiration dates, could test new formulas, etc. One day, when one of the other office flunkies was transporting a cartload of Chloe vials, he tripped and knocked over the entire cart, shattering all the glass in the hall right in front of the elevator. The smell didn't disappate for weeks. To this day, the smell of Chloe makes me a little nauseous. Too much perfume is definitely not a good thing. On the other hand, I was inspired to give up the elevator and start taking the stairs. I lost 20 pounds that summer by drinking Tab out of the office vending machine and taking the stairs to avoid smashed vats of perfume.
from harri3tspy :
We're definitely in the same ballpark reading-wise of late. You might have fun with my current read -- and it's on the web. Frances Willard's Occupations for Women (1897). You can find it at http://digicoll.library.wisc.edu/cgi-bin/History/History-idx?type=header&id=History.WillaOccup
from rs536-2000 :
hard to say--it's been so long!
from captvfirefly :
WHOO HOOO, Red! Congrats! :) How exciting!!
from fluttrbykiss :
YAY Red!!!! You go girl!!! heh... (((huggles)))
from rs536-2000 :
I love how fish is "deficient in fat." Ever heard of salmon, i wonder. Welcome to the cardiac cafe...wow.
from readersguide :
"Since well-bred people avoid display, especially display that is out of keeping with their means, the mistress of the servant-less house does not attempt the formalities of table service observed by the Richest-Family-in-Town." You can't imagine how this has put my mind at ease! I don't suppose it means we can eat at one end of the table while the mail and catalogs and homework and important notices take up more and more room at the other end? The clean doilies also distress me -- who is supposed to wash and iron them? Not me, I hope.
from rs536-2000 :
Those poor women! Now we know why depression, bi-polar disorder and my all-time favorite, the Lobotomy were rampant back in the day. Didja know that the inventor of the lobotomy got a Nobel prize. Happy weekend from the tangent queen.
from harri3tspy :
Perhaps these manuals help to explain a book that is currently on my desk (dissertation fodder) entitled, "Modern Woman: The Lost Sex" (1947). Written by Fredinand Lundberg (who, if the flyleaf "other books" list is taken into account, appears to be a society writer) with a psychiatrist named Dr. Marynia F. Farnham, the book espouses the belief that modern woman is a dangerous mess. From the foreward: "The central thesis of this book is that contemporary women in very large numbers are psychologically disordered and that their disorder is having terrible social and personal effects involving men in all departments of their lives as well as women. It is by no means an a priori thesis, which the authors have set out to prove, but is a conclusion slowly arrived at and resting on clinical work in psychiatry carried on over a long period by Dr. Marynia F. Farnham of New York." The authors blame moral panic on the industrial revolution, which destroyed the creative home and forced women to look outside the confines of the home for enrichment. This has had disastrous effects (of course!), particularly as outlined in chapter 12, "Mother and Child: The Slaughter of The Innocents." The book is actually quite fascinating, although Freudian in the worst way (Chapter 4 is entitled, "This Phallic World" and begins with a discussion of Copernicus -- man's contribution to the downfall of society, according to this book, lies in setting his sights on interstellar knowledge, rather than concentrating on his "earthly childhood home."
from devilsdealer :
Hey hey HEY! I'm 22 and I watched Bugs Bunny cartoons all the TIME when I was younger. Those were NOT the "old days" at all! Your young'un there needs to realize that only in the past five or so years has Bugs Bunny gone out of regular TV(and basic cable) rotation. And hey, don't completely knock Tom & Jerry, those 60s cartoons were stylized and a bit trippy and I *still* stop to watch them. Woo! CARTOONS!
from rs536-2000 :
Yup--sounds like we supervise the same type of person. It can be gruesome! GO AWAY!! [i say mentally]
from captvfirefly :
Um, I think Red and Yukon are the same child. Seriously, I don't know how you and my sister handle these terrible two's! It's like a rollercoaster, but I did laugh. Yukon does the same. things! The tantrums (don't even think about asking her to go inside if she's playing outside now), the food (she only eats chicken, french fries, and mac & cheese - everything else goes onto the floor for the dog), etc. It makes me laugh, but that's only because I get to leave. They are lucky they are cute, eh? :)
from rs536-2000 :
Do you happen to member the Kroft's Supershow? It had Electra Woman and Dynagirl...and Magic Mongo the genie. I need to look for those on DVD.
from rs536-2000 :
Yes--that was it. As long as it was a spoof, I feel ok. I was just surprised at first.
from elgan :
I just read your note on harri3tspy�s spot about kids pointing out fat people. When my son was a newborn and my daughter a mere three, one of the profs at the college came over to visit. The man (now dead, sadly) was enormous with a huge white beard. I remember my son in his arms looked like a miniature doll. My daugher came into the kitchen and said, �That man is very fat.� I agreed with her, but I also warned her not to say that to him. She marched back into the living room, planted herself in front of the visitor and said, �You have a very long beard!�
from rs536-2000 :
Welcome back! I couldn't agree more about Elvis...though some of the Elvis re-mix stuff with a hiphop beat cracks me up.
from harri3tspy :
That's so funny. I'm surprised at how often diaryland folk turn up in my dreams. I wonder how accurate the subconscious theories about people are. On the couple of occasions I've met people I know from blogging, I've always found the confrontation of mental image and reality a little disorienting. I hope you enjoy the rest of your trip and that Dusty's on the mend!
from smedindy :
I'm sending it to your freshhell account NOW!
from smedindy :
Guest entry emailed!
from rs536-2000 :
I've been missing your updates. Hope Dusty gets better and that the rest of your time is fantastic!
from readersguide :
Hey! Have a good trip!
from amblus :
Our parents are so messed up. Did I tell you that dad gave me a dried-out dead frog he found under the piano? I ask you. What. In. The. Hell. When I told mom about it she said "Don't throw it away! You can use it in your art!" Um, I have never, ever, EVER made anything with dead critters in it, mom. You're thinking of YOU. Who are these people?
from harri3tspy :
I loved the Dusty rainbow story. I'd forgotten until you mentioned Red that AJ used to do the same thing with noises. Cars and trucks were all "Beep-beeps" for quite some time. I miss some of those quirks of language. AJ himself reminded me of one of my favorites, "Explowhoopy point" for "Exclamation point." I still think his rendition is more evocative of its use.
from smedindy :
Woot! Got the CD! Thanks! Thanks! It looks like you're getting a five-pack. Just a few more songs to sift through, then the mixing awaits! Toodles!
from rs536-2000 :
Basie Asher
from fluttrbykiss :
Alright... Now you HAVE to keep it coming... I'm drawn in, obsessed... heh..
from fluttrbykiss :
MORE!!! MORE!!! It's AWESOME!!! We want MORE!!!! Hehh....
from harri3tspy :
More! We want more!
from amblus :
Garden! We planted seeds for radishes, carrots and lettuce last weekend. Then it snowed. Fuck you, snow!
from captvfirefly :
See, I'm all about the Jelly Belly jelly beans. Blueberry, raspberry, fruit punch, lime, etc. But for the traditional, Brachs flavors? See, I love the yellow and orange beans. I also like the purple, and I'm with you on the pink and the white. What IS that white flavor??
from harri3tspy :
Thanks for the little house rec. AJ and I actually read Big Woods last Christmas and he loved it (as did I -- it had been years since I'd read those books). He didn't like the second one so much, though, so we abandoned it. I'll probably try again with Farmer Boy at some point.
from readersguide :
The trouble is, the wall will be replaced by a closet. But the door is glass, and that's good.
from rs536-2000 :
You have all my sympathy. I like red, purple and pink. [girl!]
from amblus :
white: vanilla candles. Ew. Also, I actually love black and I'm cracking up at how opposite we are in flavor preferences. You WOULD be the perfect person to share a bag with.
from readersguide :
Red and pink -- best. Orange and yellow -- okay. White -- iffy. Green -- awful, but edible. Black -- edible in small quantities. Anything with cocoanut -- liable to make one break out in hives; something like having ants crawling through your mouth.
from smedindy :
Anything for a fellow solider in this fight of ours. Heh.
from readersguide :
Hey - just thought I shoud tell you -- N has taken a stack of old records up to her room. Avalon seems to be her current favorite. heh heh heh.
from rs536-2000 :
My friend is pregnant and married to a lapsed Catholic (she's Jewish). Her in-laws are upset that the future baby will not be Catholic...she was saying to me yesterday: "do they think that Gandhi's in Hell?" She seemed upset by the idea. Since I'm with you on the no-hell front, I just think it's a funny question. And I love the pix of your atheist kids, BTW.
from rs536-2000 :
I know--I can't imagine paying so much. I pay less than half that amount for a 2 bedroom.
from harri3tspy :
I must confess that I have been known to prune both our forsythia (known to us as The Hairy Behemoth) and our two flowering quince. But in my defense, if you could see them, you'd know why. The Forsythia, which is definitely in a natural shape, is trying hard to devour the adjacent lilac, my favorite tree in the yard. Both are in the woods, so I would leave them alone if it weren't for my fear that one day I'll wake up and discover that the forsythia has grown right over the lilac. As for the quince, they have a similar tendency toward an innocent crabapple, although they're much less agressive about it. But I usually wait to clip until they're in flower, as I like to bring them in the house. Which reminds me, I should go clip some forsythia to force in vases. I love spring too.
from readersguide :
But not as much as I do. She took all my clothes and put them in the washing machine (which is very bad) and the dryer (which is worse, and did not get them dry). (These machines work just fine for me --) So this morning I was complaining to N about how I had no pants at all to wear, so I had to wear a pair I don't like and N said, "That's what you do to me! Everything she's doing to you, you do to me!" She was laughing, and so was I, but -- this is not good. Not good at all.
from harri3tspy :
Curses! Now I was recently talking with Smed about my favorite mix album, one I found by the side of the road to a Cape Cod beach. It had a lot of Roxy Music on it and it always sounds like summer to me. Especially "Avalon," which always makes me think of summer days spent at the Jersey Shore beach of the same name. If I can't find that tape, I might be downloading some as well.
from readersguide :
tee hee! What I most worry about is that my own children will think I'm equally insane. I suppose it's inevitable, though.
from amblus :
Don't worry about your stalled music taste - my next CD purchase is going to be the Best of Paul Simon. That's not even COOL. Lou Reed and Blondie? Are at least cool. Who am I?
from harri3tspy :
Plant them! Plant them now! I love my hellebores. I bought one plant from Bluestone Perennials a couple of years ago. Last fall, when I was cleaning up the garden, I discovered about 20 baby hellebores huddling around it. I transplanted them and am waiting to see what happens this spring.
from smedindy :
That's a good assessment, really, because by the Blondie was just trying for the hits, and it did sound great on the radio, didn't it??
from harri3tspy :
Thanks for the Byron rec. It sounds right up my alley. Damn. Just what I need: more books to read.
from smedindy :
Oh, heh! Yeah, I 'pose it's life. But why can't it be sunshine, roses and lollipops (the grape Charms lollipops, especially)???
from legalbeagle :
Any mother who can use "kindergarten" and MOTHERFUCKIN' in the same paragraph is my hero! I only aspire to your greatness.
from readersguide :
Me again -- About the radio: Now I get it. (Our NPR station no longer plays any classical music at all, just news news news! So I forgot that was even an option.) Well, in that case, I think you're probably okay. It's more like overheard adult conversation, which is really unavoidable.
from readersguide :
My mother sends me boxes of things like -- like old bathrobes she doesn't want any more! I give them to the Goodwill.
from readersguide :
We probably will, but not without scars. Hey, I'm still thinking about that NPR thing. It's not a huge deal, but why are they listening to NPR at a daycare? I know they're people, too, etc., but it does seem to me that a daycare is for children, and not really an appropriate place for grownups to be listening to grownup news. It just doesn't seem necessary to me. This will continue to be an issue -- in 4-6th grade my kids had to bring in current events once a week, and there was a policy against gory or disturbing stories. In 7-8th grades my kids had/have to bring in a current event dealing with a spanish speaking country, and here there are no restrictions, although you tend not to get stories about murders and things in the international news section. But you do get things about human rights abuses in Guatemala, etc. Good luck with your mother -- does yours like to take you shopping for new curtains, or new storage solutions? I'm always suckered in because in theory I'd like new curtains or storage solutions, but somehow it always ends up not being quite what I really wanted, or else with rather extensive strings attached. Ugh. I'm going to stock up on sleep now, since it is sure to be exhausting.
from captvfirefly :
First off, I meant to comment about your parenting entry the other day, but my browser crashed. Darn it. Anyway, what I wanted to say is this: I think you are a fantastic parent. You are taking on the challenge of raising a child in this wonky world of ours and doing a great job. Your children are very smart, and with your intelligent, thoughtful, openminded outlook, you won't go wrong. I mean, Dusty obviously feels comfortable to talk to you about things that upset her, and I don't see that changing any time soon. You treated her like an adult (you didn't chastize her or tell her not to worry about it like some parents I know), and kids pick up on that kind of thing. I think you're doing great. And? The pictures!!! CUTE!! Those little faces.. so adorable. Then again, I already knew they were, but it's so nice to see them on the page. :)
from fluttrbykiss :
Hey.. Thanks for the shout out... heeh... I have no shame.. You're girls are beautiful!!! and I love the *Garden* stories... You are so imaginative... What I wouldn't do to get my hands on that book of yours... I bet it's Fan-tab-u-lous!!!
from readersguide :
Hey, my birthday is the day before yours! I've always liked it -- I think you're right that kids can't be shielded, etc., but I still don't think it's reasonable for NPR to be on at a preschool. I don't know -- I just don't see the point of it, really. Kids tend to pick up and worry about more than you think. Hmm.
from harri3tspy :
Thanks for the boat picture. What a great looking toy. I don't know why it hasn't occured to me to look on e-bay for the old FP toys. Hmm. There goes another evening wasted. And I really loved your entry today. I'm also coming to the conclusion that as long as kids have loving and involved parents who will take the time to help kids work through things, they can handle an awful lot and will generally tune out the things they can't handle. My nieces have spent most of their young lives in war-torn areas of the Middle East. I once heard G. (who wil be 8 on Friday) remark to my mother when we were all visiting her a year ago or so, "Wow, no one has guns here." She is so used to seeing streets full of people carrying weapons that their absence was remarkable. But at the same time, the drama of their surroundings seems to have eluded her observation. She sees what she can and her parents help her figure it out. AJ now likes to read the newspaper with us in the morning. Mostly he picks out articles about space exploration, when he can find them. But he is also fixated on stories about Katrina and the hurricane aftermath. The tales of the hurricane made a huge impression on him -- I think because the weather is something he understands, whereas men killing each other in a far-away war is not. I think my tendency to want to shield AJ from the more horrible parts of the news has much more to do with me than him. I don't want to have to explain something that I really don't understand either.
from harri3tspy :
The cruise ship? I've never seen that one. AJ's FP toys are the newer versions, but my mom and dad still have our old toys at their house -- the school, the garage, the circus train and the fire engine. Alas, a family of mice moved into the house at one point and so that one was thrown away. Although we all thought it was pretty cute that the mice were living in it. Those old FP toys were wonderful.
from legalbeagle :
I love "Goodnight Gorilla" just for the picture of the monkey smiling in bed, just after being discovered by the zoo keeper's wife. I belly laugh at that monkey! I want to frame that page!
from fluttrbykiss :
That is the CUTEST entry... I so remember those days with my kidlets... And I soooo do miss them... *sniff* *sniff*.... Enjoy it, they go sooo fast...
from smedindy :
I loved that!
from harri3tspy :
I'd buy you that beer if I could. Thanks for that entry -- it totally made my day. And congratulations to Dusty on the tooth! I can see how it might be alarming, but the Tooth Fairy will make it all worthwhile, I am sure.
from nimiiwin :
Yes, i know, I suck. I just noticed today that it's been 10 days. I should do something about it but probably not today. Perhaps tomorrow. Busy, busy. Plus an ice storm knocked out power since last Thursday. Internet just came back on this morning.
from rs536-2000 :
In order to renege on the pledge I would have to cancel my credit card...and that seems extreme.
from rs536-2000 :
Yes!! I am in that club. I do envy your tax return and although I have no acne...I do have hairs on my chin...it's SO sad.
from amblus :
1. http://www.typetive.com/candyblog/ 2. tell D. that I loved "A Little Princess" A LOT when I was little. I still have my copy!
from smedindy :
Leave me alone, Mrs. Vanderbilt...
from captvfirefly :
Thank you. You're right, I think I do seem to take on the feelings of someone else more than I worry about my own. I guess I was just trying to find a way that I wouldn't have to puke up the money to change my locks, or to see him in person. I'll be packing up his stuff tonight, and, well, I guess I'll have to do this tomorrow night. Thank you for your honesty and your friendship. :)
from captvfirefly :
Suddenly my oatmeal doesn't seem so appetizing. hehe But, Pierce Brosnan.... yum.
from fluttrbykiss :
If your looking for a easy to use photo sharing spot photobucket.com is reltively easy... If you like it, and need some help, i would be more than happy to halp you figure it out.... I also know how to do flikr.com, if you tell me what you want to do with it...
from harri3tspy :
Mmm. Pierce Brosnan. I've had a crush on him since Remington Steele, when I was just a kid. I just picked up The Thomas Crown Affair for Valentine's Day viewing. I think since Dusty and AJ are so into their projects that perhaps they should open their own Hollywood studio. Then they could keep us in the style to which we'd like to become accustomed.
from harri3tspy :
I just realized the message notification on the email I use for diaryland wasn't working, so I just discovered the pictures in my mailbox. So cute! That wig picture is priceless, but I have a soft spot in my heart for Dusty's crooked bangs. I had bangs like that for my entire childhood and there didn't seem to be anything anyone could do about it.
from amblus :
That's great! I should have you come over and tell me about my garden when I can't sleep. Tell Dusty that when I was little, I liked to hear grown-up's stories about times they got into trouble when they were kids.
from nimiiwin :
What a lovely way to help your daughter go to sleep!
from captvfirefly :
The next time I have trouble falling asleep, I'm going to visualize what you just wrote (about the garden). :) I use something similar when meditating.
from captvfirefly :
I SO need to do my taxes. I'm not looking forward to it (new condo = bye bye easy tax form, I'm guessing). And? Adrienne calls cats "Mo Mo" because they have a cat named Gizmo. Hence, ALL cats are "Mo Mo." Which is awfully similar to Miao Miao, except Red's version is actually correct (in a sense). Adrienne's is just cute. Of course the only other thing she can say clearly at the moment is "No" and "Elmo" (the latter repeated several times fast). Kids. :)
from portia12 :
I enjoy reading your diary! I know I will be a similar mother what with the children on the floor and the dust bunnies! :P Your stories about the kids are too cute. Could you send me the link to the kid's pics? [email protected]
from nimiiwin :
Hey! Cute photos! I'm with you on the "no notes" thing. I hate that! I love getting notes! I have been known to beg for 'em. I'm shameless.
from readersguide :
me too, me too!
from harri3tspy :
I, for one, will not miss an opportunity to see Red in an Afro clown wig.
from smedindy :
Oh, I'm here! I'm here!
from smedindy :
Oh, if Liz's career went in a different path and was more rewarding, I'd be at home, there is no doubt. She was making 1 1/2 times what I was when she decided to leave, because the industry she was in was (financial services) was totally making her insane and sad.
from nimiiwin :
Man! I'm going to miss you in ATL by a day! I'm coming back on 4/5. Poo. I do like mysteries. I've enjoyed the Sara Paretsky and Sue Grafton ones. I just don't like any that are too gruesome or I get paranoid! And on to the 3rd thing: I avoid "you guys" because women 'round here get ticked off by it. "I'm not a guy!" Ladies sounds antiquated. So I say you all, or if I'm comfortable y'all. But never you'uns. :)
from smedindy :
Katie really pitched a fit one morning when we wanted her to wear something plain - it seems like all of the other girls in Montessori wear something nice and sparkly or vibrant every day.
from smedindy :
You know - that comment about glasses sounds EXACTLY like my wife when I ask her if she would consider glasses full time!
from harri3tspy :
Thanks for your comment. I started to respond here, but it got too long, so I turned it into today's entry instead. I hope you don't mind.
from captvfirefly :
That was an amazing entry (1988, although, I love ALL of your entries...). I met a friend through Yahoo personals who is now dating one of my really good friends - and all because he never called me to set up a meeting way back when we were emailing. How bizarre is that! Because we came back into contact via MySpace, and he saw my friend there, and they met, now they are in love. So, I know how events seem to all work out in the end. :)
from harri3tspy :
A lovely entry. I had a nerdy guy too. I felt guilty about him for years until I ran into him on the street a few years ago with his nerdy wife and nerdy baby and they all seemed very, very happy.
from nimiiwin :
On my main page there is a link called "The Story of a Girl." That's my livejournal.
from nimiiwin :
Thanks for the entry! :) You're in VA, eh? Well, here in lovely MI, you can get weekly rentals of houses for a boat load of money. However, we found a local hotel with a microwave and refrigerator for about $50 a night. Since we can cook food, sort of, in the microwave, we save a ton. We go out to breakfast cause it's cheap-ish, eat sandwiches for lunch and then microwave dinners. Could you find something like that? Or would your children drive you to drink if you had to share a room with them?
from nimiiwin :
I'd write you more notes if you wrote more entries! My buddy list has been black for days now. What's going on in the world?
from harri3tspy :
That Dusty is very astute. AJ, on the other hand, has totally idealized kindergarten. I'm worried that he can't help but be disappointed.
from smedindy :
DTV actually now broadcasts XM Satellite Radio on its music stations, since November 15. Have you considered their satellite internet service?
from nimiiwin :
Love the garage! I'm going to do that if I ever get a garage with panels like that! How cool! :)
from harri3tspy :
Thanks for the recommendation. AJ has some kind of visual dictionary, but it's not very good and never seems to have the words he really wants to know about. As for babies, I'm pretty sure AJ isn't interested in the mechanics. But the trick is always figuring out why he's asking -- what exactly is he trying to find out? How'd things go with Dusty? I can't even imagine tackling that one.
from harri3tspy :
What a tragic story. I think such tragedies become about us when we can't find a good reason to explain why it wasn't about us, why it didn't involve us. I think I wrote about this on one of the 9/11 anniversaries a couple of years ago. Random violence is the most terrifying thing of all, especially when the victims mirror ourselves.
from smedindy :
I wouldn't tell her, either. I agree with you. Wow, that's so sad. Let us know what happens with the investigation.
from harri3tspy :
Wow, next time I need to insult someone, I'm calling Dusty for advice. That was fantastic.
from smedindy :
Hey Rocky! Watch me pull a rabbit out of my hat! We are in new president search mode ourselves - to be decided upon in January.
from smedindy :
The Cars ruled our high school world, and the Police. And some of us wanted to have hair like a Flock of Seagulls guy.
from nimiiwin :
Man! YOu got that from me? I don't even remember it - you had to dig deep for that!:)
from nimiiwin :
Thanks for stopping by! I've only had a chance to read a couple of your entries. Very funny! I'm so excited to find a new person who's readable! :) Where do you work?
from readersguide :
I still miss it, and my kids are 13 and 16 ...
from readersguide :
"someone at the school that can help her organize herself" -- no way. That's part of the problem. It's a huge school, and resources like that are pretty much nonexistent. On the positive side, if you can figure it out, you can probably survive anywhere ....
from readersguide :
More about learning disabilities and N. -- it seems more like an organizational and a shyness disability. Once she's focussed on something, she actually can do well -- but it's hard for her to keep 6 classes organized and prioritized so that she can do well, and she's too independent and stubborn to ask us for help, and she's too shy to speak up in class and say -- wait, I don't get that. But I think it's getting a little better as she gets to know each teacher, and as she recognises that it's a lot of work to keep up with 6 classes, and it's not a horrible thing to accept help ... I think. Anyway -- we'll keep checking, since it doesn't seem completely out of line to suspect something of the sort.
from harri3tspy :
Thanks for the brainchild rec. Lass just recommended it to me too. I'm going to have to put it on my regular reading list.
from smedindy :
Oh, it is supposed to snow 6 inches tonight here and we do have ice from freezing rain on Saturday. Katie loves to dance to the Daily Show theme. I think it's funny!
from readersguide :
You know, I wonder -- Her sister does. N. has always seemed to learn easily, but now she doesn't, and even when she thinks she knows things, she doesn't do well on the test -- Hmmm.
from harri3tspy :
Thanks so much for your notes. That website is a godsend. I hadn't seen it before. I'll definitely be consulting that a lot. And I'm very anxious to read the book. It's coming in my next Amazon order! I'm not sure if I'll be able to get to it right away, but I hope to soon.
from smedindy :
I loved that entry about your grandfather. That WAS some serious hoarding there!
from readersguide :
Yes, I hate it. And I hate waking people up, and I hate nagging them about their homework. I wonder what would happen if I just stopped? Hah.
from smedindy :
Videos? During naptime? Katie, almost four, gets 1 1/2 to two hours of 'nap' each day, though she hardly sleeps. But she plays quietly (heh!) and does snooze once in a while. Videos? Argh!
from harri3tspy :
Thanks for the note. I just looked up the book on Amazon and it looks like it's right up my alley. I'll have to check it out. And thanks for the good wishes on my exam. I think it helped!
from drgeek :
No, I don't think your note was overly strident. Being a man speaking in reaction to an article about feminism, I'm just trying to make sure that my ideas are properly communicated is all.
from drgeek :
I think that the vision of "all" that I was speaking about is the one you describe: high powered corporate jobs, home cooked gourmet meals, and chauffering three kids between a thousand highly structured activities. Of course we all do what we must to get along in this world. I think women are better, on average, than anyone at that. I just think the ideal is overreaching. I'm glad you've found a life that works for you... and that it includes a husband and children that it works for too. That is hard enough sometimes, without keeping up with the Joneses. I say forget the Joneses. Their probably living lives of quiet desperation headed toward tragedy anyway. :-)
from readersguide :
My god -- do these people not think we have enough to do with our own thanksgivings that we need to be baking for them, too? It's nuts! Plus, you are completely right about the sugar business. I remember the thanksgiving my kids had at one of their elementary schools. We were supposed to send in something reflecting our heritage. !!! Pot roast? I think I sent in pumpkin pie as a subtle sort of protest. Anyway -- it sounds to me like moving Dusty is the right call -- and happy halloween!
from smedindy :
Katie loves to kick it out with Van Halen, etc. Does the air guitar with me. And what's wrong with us Scorpios. We're tender, really.
from harri3tspy :
Pneumonia? Oh no! I hope everyone's feeling better soon!
from smedindy :
You are scaring me. I work in the fundraising office here at Wabash as Director of Advancement Services. Eeek! This is eerie. Where do you work?
from smedindy :
Thanks for the tip on the site. If you read back, I'm an insane musician wanna be who never quite had the patience to get it done. What a great list of influences! I'll have to take an ear. Sounds like he'd like the Posies and the Pursuit of Happiness (and I know that is dating me.) Plus, his name is Scott as well. We gotta stick together!
from harri3tspy :
Boy, I wish I could take you up on that beer and conversation! As for becoming central by continuing to create, I'd like to believe that was true, but I think it's going to take more than that. But it's still a good start!
from smedindy :
Harri3t guided me here from the notes you left. As a father of two lovely girls, I think your parenting stories are great. And I need a beer, especially on a Friday. Hope you read my stuff - they're all over the place but I tend to post a couple of kid things a week.
from harri3tspy :
Schroeder! How could I not mention Schroeder in my Beethoven lecture? AJ's even asked for a bust of Beethoven for his room. He likes to play what he calls the "Schroeder and Lucy game," where he bangs on the piano and I keep asking him to play Jingle Bells until I shout "That's It!" and he falls off his chair. If Schroeder isn't enough reason to keep Beethoven on his pedestal, I don't know what is.
from harri3tspy :
A lovely entry today!
from harri3tspy :
That's hilarious and so true! That story reminded me of when AJ was about 2, and he was explaining to me what traffic lights meant one day. "Red means you stop. Green means you go." "What about yellow?" I asked him. "Yellow's when you say "Jesus!" Oops. That one was my husband's fault, though, I swear!
from harri3tspy :
AJ is also weirdly obsessed with the "made in..." tags, to the point that he identifies his possessions by their points of origins. "No, not the bear made in CHINA, the bear made in GUAM." Now we look the places up on his globe, so at least he's getting something out of it.
from harri3tspy :
I can't believe I have never read any of her stuff before. I was an English major in college, for pete's sake. It was such a pleasure to discover her -- I'm sure I appreciate her more now than I would have in college. I'm going to have to read more about her biography. I have my copy of The Heart is a Lonely Hunter propped up on my desk right now, because the Bresson photo of her on the cover is so haunting.
from captvfirefly :
I LOVED Red's "guest entry" - I swear, I could see Yukon doing all of those things. I don't know how you do it! Oh yeah, and the eating things off the floor (Yukon prefers to take the dogs bone out of her mouth and chew on that, or pull hairs off the dog and eat them..) and standing on the furniture. I guess it's true that kids keep you young. :)
from harri3tspy :
That's okay. Writing and editing are very different skills! And I totally agree with you about the challenges of writing fiction. It's just that that kind of challenge sounds appealing right now -- actually, ANYTHING without footnotes sounds appealing right now.
from readersguide :
We loved Mrs. PiggleWiggle, too -- As for the BC -- go for it! (I wish I had!)
from harri3tspy :
I love Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle! I haven't read any of those books in years, but they were on display at our local library this week and I'm thinking I'm going to have to try one on AJ one of these days.
from harri3tspy :
Thanks so much for your note. That's really nice to hear! As for the tomatoes, my grandmother used to can hers. It was a hot and messy process and she hated it, but having grown up during the Depression, she couldn't bring herself to throw them out. But if you'd like to spare yourself the labor, a lot of places have harvest share organizations where you can donate your excess produce to the homeless or for charity. http://www.secondharvest.org/ lets you search for food banks near you.
from captvfirefly :
Holy tomatoes, batman! (Sorry, I could not resist.) So, do you can salsa and pasta sauce? If not, this might be the year to start. :) And? I just love hearing your exchanges with Dusty. What a smart girl!
from devilsdealer :
Thank you for your sympathising words. They did me more good than you know, even if they weren't all sunshine and roses. Who really needs roses anyhow, right? Thanks also for liking the cuteness of my new layout. I'm hoping I can get to being a bit more like the kind of girl who would get one like it, than the girl who would mock the girl who got it. First steps, man...
from readersguide :
Hey, my littlest is Madeleine!
from readersguide :
Oh, and the books by Joan Aiken -- Wolves of Willoughby Chase, etc.
from readersguide :
Hey! I really miss all those books I used to read to my kids. I'll look over the bookcase and see if I can remember what they were. Also, I can't remember how old Dusty is -- I'm thinking 4. We read all the Wizard of Oz books, and the Moomintroll books (which some kids like and some don't) and all the Roald Dahl books. Alice in Wonderland IS great. The Narnia books are great (I think we read them when my oldest was about 4. The youngest, who is 13, just reread them all herself.) The Beezus and Ramona and the Henry Huggins books are very good. Oh -- and the Edward Eager books, like Half Magic, are good too. Later, books By Diana Wynne Jones are good, like The 9 Lives of Christopher Chant. Also books like Frog and Toad, and the Little Bear books are really good. I am jealous --
from harri3tspy :
A follow up on my last message -- I just realized that Zilpha Keatly Snyder is the one who wrote The Velvet Room, which was one of my favorites.
from supermom3604 :
Silly, I wouldn't want to drink the Visine myself. I'd put it in Crazy Drunk Bitch's coffee. Well, I would have if I didn't just find out that it would probably kill her. Damn. Now I'm afraid of Visine. Like I needed one more thing to be afraid of.
from harri3tspy :
It's so funny you mentioned the Moomintrolls, because I just stumbled on them in the library today while browsing around for things to read aloud with AJ. I had forgotten all about them. I'm not sure if I ever read the books, but when I was living in England as a kid, we used to watch the TV show. We already had too many things to carry today, but I made a mental note to investigate them next week.
from harri3tspy :
I'm not exactly sure I'd say I was immersed in the book, but it definitely made me think. It didn't draw me in like Housekeeping did. But I'd certainly recommend it. I have that problem with reading for research too (although in my case it's largely non-fiction).
from tigerstriped :
Happy birthday AND happy summer. Of course the birthday is more important, though. And Red is really quite adorable. I can't believe how blond she is... aww.
from captvfirefly :
That was the best damn birthday entry I've ever read. HAPPY BIRTHDAY! :) And seriously, Red did not say "goddamn," did she?? HAHA
from elabee :
Happy 39th! Enjoy it!
from dailypieces :
HAHAHAHAHAHA!I cracked up at this entry. Happy B'day!
from harri3tspy :
I, too, was somewhat proud when AJ picked up my penchant for cursing. At age 2, if you asked him what a red light meant he'd say, "Stop!" A green light, "Go!" A yellow light, "Shit!" My job here is done. Happy Birthday!
from supermom3604 :
Happy Birthday! Laptop out on the deck with a beer? Sounds like a great way to spend the day. Enjoy.
from lovesilent :
Username: Password Password: Username And I loved what you said about how children open up parts of our hearts that were previously unknown. So true!
from dailypieces :
Happy Bday Red! Loved the story.
from harri3tspy :
A beautiful story. Happy Birthday, Red!
from tigerstriped :
It's true... it's like we're so familiar with these children's stories that we become desensitized to the actual themes. And they're weird themes!! And for the record, I'm a big fan of Goodnight Gorilla.
from captvfirefly :
Awww. Wow, it's been a year already? I bet you're thinking the same thing. Please send my birthday wishes on to Red. :)
from gem-chan :
Eee! Pat the Bunny rocks! I apparently patted the bunny so much that his fuzzy wore off, according to the mom. Have you tried Jamie Lee Curtis' books? We just got a bunch at the library and I have to admit...they're sassy. Maybe more appropritate for Dusty than Red.
from tigerstriped :
I'm really hoping I'll be able to make it to Red's party... I'm back and forth between DC and Richmond these days, so not sure if I'll be in town then. Hopefully I will. At any rate I'll see you soon!
from devilsdealer :
Hey you. I just wanted to say that I'm feeling great just knowing that you're doing better. I just *thought* about putting the words out there the other day (and actually said them into my brand-spankin' new voice recorder) and everything, I mean EVERYTHING felt like it was going 110% better than it had been the day before. Catharsis as the catalyst for change. Woo!
from captvfirefly :
Ah, so that's why you asked me if I was still seeing Dr. Dan? Actually, no, I'm not. I stopped seeing him around Christmas time. Sometimes I think I should go back, but really, my life is not all that complicated, and we ran out of things to talk about. Plus, with his help and the help of the meds, I started making positive changes. I think it's good that you recognize a problem and are going to talk about it. Lack of sleep can cause all kinds of issues. But talking to a counselor is a great idea. And I understand - when I figured out something wasn't quite right with me, I wanted to see a counselor RIGHT THEN. Sadly, I had to wait. Knowing I had that appointment helped. June 13th will be here before you know it. :)
from gem-chan :
You can't talk sense into her. Not until she's about 25 or so.
from captvfirefly :
You're back! :) I hate the post-vacation-work assult, too. But, it sounds like you had a nice time (aside from the bombs going off). Oh, and Yukon does that screaming thing too! She'll just start screaming for no reason, and then laugh. It's really fun when we're out somewhere (like dinner) and she starts yelling. The only thing keeping people from thinking we beat the poor child is that she's smiling and laughing in-between. And that she's adorable. Just like Red. :)
from captvfirefly :
Have a terrific time at the beach! :) And? Thanks for playing with me. Haha, um, that sounded bad. You know what I meant.
from bettyalready :
Jeez man. You close at 5, then close at 5. I worked retail and the girls I worked with were pretty rude, I thought, to women who walked in 10 minutes before we closed. About a year ago we went to an Indian restaurant and got there an hour before they closed. They were SO friggin rude and didn't even hide it. Customer service people. I understand people these days are ruder than ever to customer service, but we're still CUSTOMER service.
from captvfirefly :
Heh, I was in a sorority in college. BUT, it was a service sorority which is why I joined. I got to help people, meet people, and do service to the community. And it was (mostly) free of the drama you find in regular sororities. It was a resume builder, damnit! :)
from elabee :
Splitting like an infinitive! Best grammar simile ever.
from lovesilent :
I don't think I've ever liked my dinner so much that I was scared out of my pants. I had better be careful when eating out from now on. Hehehehe. And also... Happy Gardening!
from supermom3604 :
I used to play library when I was little. When I was looking through my old books at my parents' house I found a bunch that had my little library pockets glued onto the front page. Awwww.
from supermom3604 :
I have this thing with possums where even seeing a live one will send me into a bad luck funk. Especially when you see them hanging by their tails from the trees. That's just damn freaky. I HATE possums. I once pulled a piece of broken balloon out of Lukas's mouth, even though I believe balloons are death and I do not allow them in my house. Where it came from, I will never know, but I don't think I slept for days.
from lovesilent :
Send me that brochure! Who needs sleep if you're skinny??? LOL! Great entry.
from supermom3604 :
You crack me up. Breastfeeding didn't make me lose any weight at all, but then I only lasted three months. My next baby, I'm going for the full year just to get that lose 30 pounds effect.
from captvfirefly :
"Monster cheese and beer!" I love it! Sounds like you had a joyous couple of days. I am down with the sickness now, so maybe it's just been karmically passed on. It's good to read that everyone is healthy in your neck of the woods. :) Also? Would you mind sharing the recipe for butternut squash stew? It sounds yummy (I loves me some squash). [email protected]. Thanks! :)
from supermom3604 :
I love your writing! But then, I love lima beans too, so what do I know? I'm working on your questions, but this weekend is incredibly busy so they may take a few days. But I didn't forget!
from captvfirefly :
I love your updates. So, you don't like lima beans? I love them. My CAT even loves them. I know, I'm weird. My parents think I'm nuts, as they never fed my sister and I lima beans growing up because they hated them. Somehow I got the bug. Oh, and by the way, you ARE a great writer. Just so ya know.
from amblus :
I LURRVE YOOOOOU.
from supermom3604 :
And I thought I was the only one who visibly shudders when I hear someone whistling. Gah, I can hardly bear to even think about it!
from captvfirefly :
Have I told you lately how much you kick ass? I am SO with you on the annoying driver issues. And? I keep telling my sister that Yukons first word will be "Fuck" if she's not careful. I love it. Besides, for some reason I can just hear Dusty saying, "Dammit!" and it makes me laugh.
from bettyalready :
Target!
from tigerstriped :
You're a pretty perfect mom, if you ask me. Remind me to spend more time with those kids... I'll be home all summer!! Maybe they'll convince me to have children someday. This almost did.
from gem-chan :
Awww. That was so sweet. I'm verklempt.
from amblus :
Beautiful.
from portia12 :
I feel your pain. I went through a similar thing, but let's just say it dragged on for much longer than it should have! I know exactly what you mean about mothers. But they needed to vent, and not realizing the detrimental effect, vented to the kids. Not the best thing. It's not their fault. After a lot of depression about my family situation (not just with my parents, but with my grandma) I came to the conclusion that you aren't responsible for anyone's actions but your own. After I came to this realization, I started doing stuff for myself, and working to make myself happy, no matter my circumstances.
from supermom3604 :
Too funny. I feel the exact same way about my kids' constant chatter. I'm not the type to just have an idle conversation, I like it quiet. But my boys - always talking. So many questions, questions I never would have thought I'd have to come up with a quick answer for.
from tigerstriped :
HAHA okay, she introduced HIM to ME. Sorry for taking up so much space.
from tigerstriped :
(edit) ... introduced me TO HIM as her ex-husband.
from tigerstriped :
Not only is that Dad's philosophy, but my mom tends to be that way, too. And believe it or not, she never told me about her first marriage. I met the guy when I was 18, going to an informational college meeting, and she introduced me as her ex-husband. Obviously I knew Dad had been married before (hi you and Adrien), but this was all new to me. She swears I met him when I was little, but how I was supposed to remember this my whole life is beyond me. The interesting thing is, she told me she divorced him because she wanted to have kids, and he didn't. I guess there's a lot about her I don't know, either. I'm sorry they screwed up your life like that. Even though my own immediate family is still together, we aren't really a unit - that whole closed-mouth, failure to talk about feelings thing. We aren't dysfunctional, but we're certainly not functional either. And I have a feeling that'll bite me in the ass soon enough. - Molly
from bettyalready :
Hey I was just reading in Supermom's comment section and your suggestion about creating a baby bird nest on the floor was so friggin creative and smart!!! Genius!
from amblus :
I'm pretty sure I can make at least two of your wishes come true. I already posted my list, before you guys did this fancy exchange stuff. So, who's gonna buy me a pony?
from supermom3604 :
Well, there are a couple wishes I can do. And I used to have a leak like that in my car. It turned out to be the wheel well in my trunk and was fixed with copious amounts of duct tape.
from supermom3604 :
Oh no, that's no fun. RSV is scary, poor thing. And "assisted living" does sound nice, doesn't it? I would give my left nut for a dishwasher. (But since I have no nuts it would really be a win-win.)
from captvfirefly :
Aww, poor Red! :( That sounds downright icky, and I hope she starts feeling better very soon. And I hope Dusty's birthday party goes well! :)
from freshhell :
Thanks Lauren! Have a good holiday and make sure your niece doesn't breathe any of that poisonous air out there! What a world.....
from captvfirefly :
Oh, and that was supposed to be "helmets" not "helments." Geez.

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