(oh, yeah, excuse the mess, please, you know we just moved in!)
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Look Ma', No fighting!
They were dancing this morning before I had to take Olivia to preschool.
(oh, yeah, excuse the mess, please, you know we just moved in!)
(oh, yeah, excuse the mess, please, you know we just moved in!)
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
104 to 112
That's what the temperature is supposed to be this weekend...Oh My God... Guess everyone was right when they said it would be HOT here in Bako (affectionate name for Bakersfield). I don't think we will be going to the park. Actually, we are planning to go to the coast Sunday, hopefully, it will be nicer there.
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
The Welcome Wagon
This is a first for us. Our new neighbors are so great! One of our next door neighbors invited the girls to a birthday party for their son who just turned 5. We weren't able to make it unfortunately, but they got goody bags for the girls anyway. So we brought him a little something. Kind of hard when you don't know the child, but nonetheless, we brought a gift of a boy themed sticker/activity book, crayons and bubbles. His mom gave me a tour of the house, I'm so jealous because it's so put together! They moved in 3 months ago. I like her taste, too, she seems to have travelled alot. They were just very welcoming to us.
Tonight, our doorbell rang and it was our other next door neighbor bringing us brownies and fresh from-a-garden tomatoes!! I met them before, the wife is a kindergarten teacher in our school district, they are empty-nesters. We have moved 4 times in the last 7 years and this is the first time anyone has brought us homemade goodies with a note welcoming us to the neighborhood. I'm flabbergasted! Well, in all fairness, in one move, we were the first on a street in a brand new neighborhood so I was the one bringing cookies to our neighbors.
Benefits of a smaller town, I guess!
Tonight, our doorbell rang and it was our other next door neighbor bringing us brownies and fresh from-a-garden tomatoes!! I met them before, the wife is a kindergarten teacher in our school district, they are empty-nesters. We have moved 4 times in the last 7 years and this is the first time anyone has brought us homemade goodies with a note welcoming us to the neighborhood. I'm flabbergasted! Well, in all fairness, in one move, we were the first on a street in a brand new neighborhood so I was the one bringing cookies to our neighbors.
Benefits of a smaller town, I guess!
Monday, July 17, 2006
Olivia's 4th birthday
We got to celebrate her birthday at Disneyland this year, we went on July 1st which happened to be her actual birthday (we actually already had a party for her). She got to wear a Happy Birthday sticker so all day, people kept telling her 'happy birthday'. I took her to City Hall where she got on the phone with Goofy who sang 'Happy Birthday' to her.
We also signed up for a special cake decorating event which was hosted by this goofy chef guy, then Mickey and Minnie showed up at the end in their finest clothes to help celebrate with everyone. It was just me and Olivia and other people that were celebrating birthdays. It was $10 a person so that's why it was just me and Olivia. I think she liked it, but she wondered why all the other people were there celebrating her birthday. I later found out she had an ear infection, too, so her ear hurt, but she was trying to have fun.
Me and baby who is growing up so fast:
The goofy host:
With Mickey and Minnie:
We also signed up for a special cake decorating event which was hosted by this goofy chef guy, then Mickey and Minnie showed up at the end in their finest clothes to help celebrate with everyone. It was just me and Olivia and other people that were celebrating birthdays. It was $10 a person so that's why it was just me and Olivia. I think she liked it, but she wondered why all the other people were there celebrating her birthday. I later found out she had an ear infection, too, so her ear hurt, but she was trying to have fun.
Me and baby who is growing up so fast:
The goofy host:
With Mickey and Minnie:
Sunday, July 16, 2006
It's HOT
So we went up to the Bay area for the weekend where it was a cool 95 degrees in the East Bay. Hey, it was better than 106!
The girls were invited to a birthday party so we got to see some old friends. We went to our old church where we saw more friends and we picked up some things we left at their uncle's place. It was refreshing to see old friends.
Next weekend we are planning to go to the coast to Santa Barbara and to Camarillo where I hear there is excellend outlet shopping. And I also made an appointment for a consultation with a Lasik surgeon...we shall see what happens!
The girls were invited to a birthday party so we got to see some old friends. We went to our old church where we saw more friends and we picked up some things we left at their uncle's place. It was refreshing to see old friends.
Next weekend we are planning to go to the coast to Santa Barbara and to Camarillo where I hear there is excellend outlet shopping. And I also made an appointment for a consultation with a Lasik surgeon...we shall see what happens!
Thursday, July 13, 2006
Continued adventures of Gingey
So when we went back to Bakersfield, we went to an Oil museum nearby and here is a picture of me in front of a pump jack, it pumps oil from the ground. Did you know that oil helps run things, like cars, ovens, gas fireplaces?! Apparently, Kern county, where Bakersfield is, is one of the largest oil producing counties in the country.
The next weekend, we drove to Los Angeles. Jacob…. that is the BIGGEST city I ever saw! There were so many freeways and we had to sit in traffic for what seemed like HOURS! But it was worth it, because the next day, on July 1st, we went to Disneyland. It was awesome! I saw Mickey Mouse, Winnie the Pooh, I got to ride on lots of neat rides, my favorite was the ‘It’s a Small World’ ride and I saw a couple of parades. I only have a couple of pictures, we were so busy. The next day, we got to go to California Adventure. It was fun, too, and it wasn’t as crowded.
Oh, I forgot, when we got to Los Angeles, we went to Little Tokyo. It’s a part of the city that has lots of Japanese people, shops, and businesses. We were going to go to the Japanese-American museum, but it was just closing as we got there. We did get to look in some neat shops. There’s a picture of me in Little Tokyo with my friends, Olivia and Claire.
We only spent a couple of days in L.A., then we went back to Bakersfield, my friends have lots of boxes in their house to unpack. On the 4th of July, we were surprised to see fireworks from their front yard….that was fun to watch.
Your friend,
Gingey
The next weekend, we drove to Los Angeles. Jacob…. that is the BIGGEST city I ever saw! There were so many freeways and we had to sit in traffic for what seemed like HOURS! But it was worth it, because the next day, on July 1st, we went to Disneyland. It was awesome! I saw Mickey Mouse, Winnie the Pooh, I got to ride on lots of neat rides, my favorite was the ‘It’s a Small World’ ride and I saw a couple of parades. I only have a couple of pictures, we were so busy. The next day, we got to go to California Adventure. It was fun, too, and it wasn’t as crowded.
Oh, I forgot, when we got to Los Angeles, we went to Little Tokyo. It’s a part of the city that has lots of Japanese people, shops, and businesses. We were going to go to the Japanese-American museum, but it was just closing as we got there. We did get to look in some neat shops. There’s a picture of me in Little Tokyo with my friends, Olivia and Claire.
We only spent a couple of days in L.A., then we went back to Bakersfield, my friends have lots of boxes in their house to unpack. On the 4th of July, we were surprised to see fireworks from their front yard….that was fun to watch.
Your friend,
Gingey
Adventures of Gingey
Dear Jacob,
I miss you, but I’m having a great time in California. Whew, it sure is hot here though, much warmer than Michigan. My new friends, Olivia, Claire, and their mom and dad have been really great to me. They have been showing me lots of new things.
We spent some time in hotels trying to stay out of the heat, it got up to 108 degrees Fahrenheit at one point, I thought my icing was going to melt! One weekend, we drove up to Sacramento. Did you know that Sacramento is the capitol of California? We went by the capitol building. I was hoping to meet Arnold Schwarzenegger; he is the governor of California. The people at the capitol building told us he really doesn’t work much in the capitol building, he usually works from his office in Los Angeles. Oh well! Here are a couple of pictures of me at the capitol building.
While in Sacramento, I had a great time with my new friends, we ate a lot! We also went to a Buddhist church for some kind of memorial service for my friends’ great-grandparents. It was sure different, Jacob! The people took turns going up to the altar and lighting incense while the Buddhist priest chanted. It was different, but calming at the same time. I really enjoyed seeing another religion and Olivia and Claire’s family is really nice…they have lots of family! Olivia and Claire aren’t Buddhist, but their great-grandparents were Buddhist, I think it was because they were Japanese. A lot of Japanese people are Buddhist.
After that, we drove back down to Bakersfield where Olivia and Claire just moved. It is so hot there! It looks like the desert.
More to follow...
I miss you, but I’m having a great time in California. Whew, it sure is hot here though, much warmer than Michigan. My new friends, Olivia, Claire, and their mom and dad have been really great to me. They have been showing me lots of new things.
We spent some time in hotels trying to stay out of the heat, it got up to 108 degrees Fahrenheit at one point, I thought my icing was going to melt! One weekend, we drove up to Sacramento. Did you know that Sacramento is the capitol of California? We went by the capitol building. I was hoping to meet Arnold Schwarzenegger; he is the governor of California. The people at the capitol building told us he really doesn’t work much in the capitol building, he usually works from his office in Los Angeles. Oh well! Here are a couple of pictures of me at the capitol building.
While in Sacramento, I had a great time with my new friends, we ate a lot! We also went to a Buddhist church for some kind of memorial service for my friends’ great-grandparents. It was sure different, Jacob! The people took turns going up to the altar and lighting incense while the Buddhist priest chanted. It was different, but calming at the same time. I really enjoyed seeing another religion and Olivia and Claire’s family is really nice…they have lots of family! Olivia and Claire aren’t Buddhist, but their great-grandparents were Buddhist, I think it was because they were Japanese. A lot of Japanese people are Buddhist.
After that, we drove back down to Bakersfield where Olivia and Claire just moved. It is so hot there! It looks like the desert.
More to follow...
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Saturday, July 08, 2006
Movin' out
Here are some pictures of our old house all packed up. Check out the moustache on our driver...he is in one of the pictures in the back of the truck near a bicycle (click on the picture to enlarge it).
Friday, July 07, 2006
Internet withdrawal
Whew, I'm finally back online. We are still living amid boxes, but I got our computer setup now so I am back online. Now I'm looking for the cord to go with my camera so I can upload all my pictures for the last month.
I don't know how I could live without the internet now, I use it all the time to look up phone numbers, information, recipes, keeping up with friends.
Right now, I'm getting information on Lasik. I really, really want to get this done in August when my in-laws come back through town. Any of you have this done? What was your experience? How did you find a good surgeon?
I don't know how I could live without the internet now, I use it all the time to look up phone numbers, information, recipes, keeping up with friends.
Right now, I'm getting information on Lasik. I really, really want to get this done in August when my in-laws come back through town. Any of you have this done? What was your experience? How did you find a good surgeon?
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
Happy 4th of July to all fellow Americans!
We got to see some wonderful fireworks from our front yard tonight. It was so unexpected. Maybe our neighborhood puts on fireworks every year? It was really nice to sit on the lawn and watch them and it was FREE!
Friday, June 30, 2006
Move in Day
It was yesterday and Y A W N, we are exhausted. Thank God my in-laws were here taking care of the girls, it would have been impossible otherwise. We have boxes stacked up everywhere, yet, we are headed down to L.A. today to have a short vacation with my brother in law, his wife and son...this will include a trip to Disneyland.
On Monday, the movers will come to unpack most of our things...woo hoo!! Then we will have to put things away and hopefully we will be on our way to getting settled in to our new home.
On Monday, the movers will come to unpack most of our things...woo hoo!! Then we will have to put things away and hopefully we will be on our way to getting settled in to our new home.
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
It's HOT here...
That's all I have to say, last week, the temps started creeping up over the 100's (Fahrenheit that is). I think it probably got up to around 108, fortunately, we had a trip planned up to Sacramento to 'escape' the heat...NOT..it was a cool 100 up there.
Still in hotels. We will begin our move into our new house at the end of this week and heading down to L.A. for the weekend...I hope it's cooler down there (keeping fingers crossed).
Still in hotels. We will begin our move into our new house at the end of this week and heading down to L.A. for the weekend...I hope it's cooler down there (keeping fingers crossed).
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
MIA
Yes, I will be MIA for a while. The only reason I've been able to get on the internet is because my hubby brings his laptop back to the hotel after work. He will be going out of town for a few days, then when he gets back, we are traveling up to Sacramento for a few days...to the 2nd of 4 hotels. We leave early Friday morning for Sac.
This is why I've had all boring posts and no pictures, I have no way to upload pictures without our computer set up. It will be a couple more weeks before we get our computer set up when we move and internet cable too.
After we get settled in our house, I will have tons of pictures to post of our move and travels!
This is why I've had all boring posts and no pictures, I have no way to upload pictures without our computer set up. It will be a couple more weeks before we get our computer set up when we move and internet cable too.
After we get settled in our house, I will have tons of pictures to post of our move and travels!
Sunday, June 18, 2006
Culture shock?
Is it possible to have culture shock when one is moving within the same state? I think I do have culture shock from moving from a large, cosmopolitan area to one of primarily agricultural and oil.
I went to try a church this morning and I was so sad because I miss our old church. I just didn't feel like I fit in with the people there. It just seemed to casual and country for me. It just doesn't feel like going to church if people are wearing shorts to church. Okay, it was only one visit, I will have to try and go again, maybe try a different service, maybe I attended the 'gray hairs' service this morning.
I went to try a church this morning and I was so sad because I miss our old church. I just didn't feel like I fit in with the people there. It just seemed to casual and country for me. It just doesn't feel like going to church if people are wearing shorts to church. Okay, it was only one visit, I will have to try and go again, maybe try a different service, maybe I attended the 'gray hairs' service this morning.
Friday, June 16, 2006
My last visit with the hand surgeon
Before we left the Bay area, I went to my last follow up with the hand surgeon. He said he was pleased with the progress I made and that I will never be at 100%, but I should continue to see improvement up to 2 years after my surgery. I still feel alot of scarring/hardness with the tendon repair. I often have a cracking feeling when I bend that finger and I still have numbness. When I touch things, the one side of my finger which had the nerve damage feels cold...that's kind of weird. I also have a hard time searching for things in a bag such as a diaper bag with that hand. He said that I don't need to continue anymore exercises...well, I didn't really have much time anymore for the hand exercises anyway.
Our visitor
Gingey just arrived! Gingey is a visitor from a family I met on my BIO (Born in October) message board. Hopefully, Gingey will help us explore our new town and join us on our trip to Sacramento and to Disneyland. I'll wait to post all the adventures in July after we get our computer set up when we move into our new house. If you want to see other adventures with Gingey, check out 'A Deviated Path' and 'Glaciermeow'.
Friday
So today, after Claire took a morning nap, we went to check out a local Costco...I love Costco! Then we went to Olivia's new preschool for a 'meet and greet' with her new teacher. Her teacher seems really great and the director too. She will also be taking swim lessons while she is in summer school. She will start summer school on Tuesday and will go for 5 whole hours! She will go Tuesday and Wednesday for the 1st session, then will go 3 days for the 2nd session. At her other preschool she only went for 2 1/2 hours, so I hope she will adjust well to the difference.
After that we picked up lunch at Taco Bell, and came back to the hotel for lunch and naptime. They were both so tired, Claire has been getting up at 5:30 almost every day and also wakes Olivia. I know it could be worse, but Claire has always been my good sleeper. I am so anxious to get into our house...
Olivia took a really deep nap and had an accident the second day in a row. We might have to move back to pull ups for naptime until we can get into our house. I think it's just been hard having to stay in the hotel and having our schedules all messed up.
After that we picked up lunch at Taco Bell, and came back to the hotel for lunch and naptime. They were both so tired, Claire has been getting up at 5:30 almost every day and also wakes Olivia. I know it could be worse, but Claire has always been my good sleeper. I am so anxious to get into our house...
Olivia took a really deep nap and had an accident the second day in a row. We might have to move back to pull ups for naptime until we can get into our house. I think it's just been hard having to stay in the hotel and having our schedules all messed up.
Lots of library time
We went back to the library close to our new house on Thursday. They had a special even called 'Flights of Fantasy' where 2 women acted out some folk tales. They were so hilarious dressing up in hats and acting like animals. The first story was Turtle Bag which is a folk tale from India, this was my favorite story of the ones we did. They also did an Uncle Remus story about Brer (sp?) Rabbit and Brer Wolf, a Navajo folk tale about the origin of stars and the Big Red Hen. Olivia and Claire both enjoyed it, although I think the Wolf scared them.
They have already read 5 books, only 5 more to go for the reading program. Olivia is so motivated, she is anxious to finish all 10!
They have already read 5 books, only 5 more to go for the reading program. Olivia is so motivated, she is anxious to finish all 10!
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Dark Circles
This is what I have this morning. I'm just not getting any sleep. I just can't sleep well in the hotel, I think I'm just anxious to get in our house and get in our own bedroom. Claire gets up at 5:30am, I waited, hoping beyond hope she would go back to sleep quietly. No such luck. And of course, she woke Olivia. So Olivia came in our room, and I put Claire back in their room in her pack and play. I mean it is just an unGodly hour to wake up. Olivia kept bugging me, but I just kept a pillow over my head. Claire wailed a little bit, then was quiet for a time. I got them out of bed when it was 7am which I have to say is a more reasonable hour...this is what time I'm used to getting them out of bed...
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Another storytime
This morning we checked out the storytime at a different library. The librarian/reader was awesome, he was really animated while reading the stories, even Claire sat through most of the books! It was rather crowded in the small library afterwards with all the kids, moms and strollers. I signed the girls up for the summer reading program...they read 10 books and they get a free paperback, book bag and a coupon for Hometown Buffet (my husband will love that!).
Afterwards we went to a popular shopping area where there is a fountain. This is where lots of moms and kids hang out after storytime at a local bookstore. There were lots of people out by the fountain, this is the most people I've seen outside at one time in this city. There was a man there with his dog, Bob. He was a friendly dog who enjoyed all the kids attention. Olivia started following a little girl and came up to me and whispered 'I found a friend'!
I talked with the girl's mom for a while trying to get information about pediatricians, she didn't seem too thrilled with hers. It was interesting to watch the different groups of moms, it seemed as if everyone had their 'clique'. At the library and at the fountain, I look around to see if I might make some potential friends.
Next we walked over to the cinema, they have a free family film fest during the summer. We had this where we used to live, I think certain chains of cinemas offer this. I got a list of movies. Unfortunately, Olivia will be in summer school, but maybe I can try and take Claire.
We did some grocery shopping then headed back for lunch and naptime. The girls were getting so tired that they were really cranky. After naptime and their daddy got back from work about 5, I took Olivia to the $1 movies. We saw Ice Age 2, it was really cute, she laughed during alot of it. Too much popcorn though...bleck!
Afterwards we went to a popular shopping area where there is a fountain. This is where lots of moms and kids hang out after storytime at a local bookstore. There were lots of people out by the fountain, this is the most people I've seen outside at one time in this city. There was a man there with his dog, Bob. He was a friendly dog who enjoyed all the kids attention. Olivia started following a little girl and came up to me and whispered 'I found a friend'!
I talked with the girl's mom for a while trying to get information about pediatricians, she didn't seem too thrilled with hers. It was interesting to watch the different groups of moms, it seemed as if everyone had their 'clique'. At the library and at the fountain, I look around to see if I might make some potential friends.
Next we walked over to the cinema, they have a free family film fest during the summer. We had this where we used to live, I think certain chains of cinemas offer this. I got a list of movies. Unfortunately, Olivia will be in summer school, but maybe I can try and take Claire.
We did some grocery shopping then headed back for lunch and naptime. The girls were getting so tired that they were really cranky. After naptime and their daddy got back from work about 5, I took Olivia to the $1 movies. We saw Ice Age 2, it was really cute, she laughed during alot of it. Too much popcorn though...bleck!
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
A special gift
One of the gifts Olivia received for her birthday was really special. It's from one of her close friends from school, A. It's a book called 'The Bracelet' and it's written by a Japanese-American writer and is a story about the internment camps during WWII. I was teary-eyed as I read the story, it is a wonderful story about friendship. It was about a little girl, Emi, who had to leave her home with her family to go into the internment camp. Her friend from school came by her home to give her a gift to always remember her. It was a bracelet. However, when they arrived at the camp, she found she lost the bracelet and was so upset. She came to realize, though, that she didn't need the bracelet to remember her friend, that her memories would help her to remember her friend.
It is really a beautifully written story. My husband's parents were in the internment camps when they were little along with their families. I'm so glad Olivia was given this book so she could learn about the camps in a way she can understand.
It is really a beautifully written story. My husband's parents were in the internment camps when they were little along with their families. I'm so glad Olivia was given this book so she could learn about the camps in a way she can understand.
To the park today
Today, we decided to go to a park near in the neighborhood where we will live. I was hoping there would be swarms of kids and moms there...kids for the girls to play with and moms for me to meet. It was such a nice day, probably in the 70's, clear, nice breeze. We got there about 9:30am...do you think it was too early? There was not a soul there. About 10 minutes later, a mom showed up with 18 month old twins. She was only there about 15 minutes, but at least I did get to 'pick her brain' a little. I don't understand why there weren't more people out enjoying the nice weather before it gets too hot?
I decided to leave when Olivia started to pretend to eat the sand...she was being such a pill today. We headed out to where their daddy works, it's about a 1/2 hour drive into nowhere. But the nice thing is there are lots of animals to see at his office. Claire slept on the way. We saw several squirrels and some wild bunnies. Most of the animals...quails, doves, rabbits come out in the morning or late afternoon. One of the employees told me to be watchful of the kids because there are also coyotes out there...gasp!
So then we went into the little town for lunch, we found a local eatery that had a great menu with lots of sandwiches and burgers. The milk shake I got was HUGE! It was nice to have lunch as a whole family.
We dropped my husband back off at his office and headed back to the hotel. I was thinking what I would do if both the girls were asleep...I can't leave one in the car by herself. They both crashed in the car, so when I got to the hotel, I put Olivia in the stroller and I carried Claire on my shoulder while I pushed the stroller. Unfortunately, the kids splashing in the pool woke Olivia up and Claire woke up as I was carrying her. I was able to put Claire in her pack and play and she immediately went back to sleep. I wasn't so lucky with Olivia. I put her in bed, but she did not go back to sleep. At least she stayed in her room quietly.
We didn't get to go see the 50 cent movie tonight since Olivia didn't get enough of a nap...the girls are just so tired. Claire wakes too early and this morning she woke Olivia up.
After Claire got up from her nap, we ran some errands which included a visite to one of my favorite stores...Trader Joe's!
On the agenda for tomorrow...to visit the library near our neighborhood for another storytime...I'm hoping to meet some moms there.
I decided to leave when Olivia started to pretend to eat the sand...she was being such a pill today. We headed out to where their daddy works, it's about a 1/2 hour drive into nowhere. But the nice thing is there are lots of animals to see at his office. Claire slept on the way. We saw several squirrels and some wild bunnies. Most of the animals...quails, doves, rabbits come out in the morning or late afternoon. One of the employees told me to be watchful of the kids because there are also coyotes out there...gasp!
So then we went into the little town for lunch, we found a local eatery that had a great menu with lots of sandwiches and burgers. The milk shake I got was HUGE! It was nice to have lunch as a whole family.
We dropped my husband back off at his office and headed back to the hotel. I was thinking what I would do if both the girls were asleep...I can't leave one in the car by herself. They both crashed in the car, so when I got to the hotel, I put Olivia in the stroller and I carried Claire on my shoulder while I pushed the stroller. Unfortunately, the kids splashing in the pool woke Olivia up and Claire woke up as I was carrying her. I was able to put Claire in her pack and play and she immediately went back to sleep. I wasn't so lucky with Olivia. I put her in bed, but she did not go back to sleep. At least she stayed in her room quietly.
We didn't get to go see the 50 cent movie tonight since Olivia didn't get enough of a nap...the girls are just so tired. Claire wakes too early and this morning she woke Olivia up.
After Claire got up from her nap, we ran some errands which included a visite to one of my favorite stores...Trader Joe's!
On the agenda for tomorrow...to visit the library near our neighborhood for another storytime...I'm hoping to meet some moms there.
Monday, June 12, 2006
Morning at the library
So after Claire took an early morning nap (she woke about 5:44am), the 3 of us headed to the main library. They were scheduled to have a storytime at 10:30am and we got there in the nick of time. It was 1/2 an hour, perfect for Olivia, just a little bit too 'old' for Claire. But they both had fun, though. After story time, Olivia was following another little girl and they were playing a bit. Olivia came to me and whispered in my ear 'I made a new friend!' very excitedly. A little bit later, she came in whispered in my ear 'her name is Olivia, too!'. I'm so glad she is so enthusiastic about meeting new friends.
Afterwards, we stopped by the Parks and Recreation department to pick up a booklet of activities and classes. Then we came back to the hotel for toasted cheese sandwiches. It so happens we are in a suite with a kitchen and 2 bedrooms/2 baths.
After lunch, we walked over to the shopping strip across the street. We found a My Gym where I'm thinking of taking Claire to next week to try out their classes. We checked our mail at the UPS store and then we went to the natural foods market to buy soymilk and juice. We also passed by the $1 cinema to see what was playing. Tomorrow happens to be 50 cent Tuesday so maybe I'll take Olivia to see Ice Age 2 tomorrow evening...or maybe we'll all go...
Afterwards, we stopped by the Parks and Recreation department to pick up a booklet of activities and classes. Then we came back to the hotel for toasted cheese sandwiches. It so happens we are in a suite with a kitchen and 2 bedrooms/2 baths.
After lunch, we walked over to the shopping strip across the street. We found a My Gym where I'm thinking of taking Claire to next week to try out their classes. We checked our mail at the UPS store and then we went to the natural foods market to buy soymilk and juice. We also passed by the $1 cinema to see what was playing. Tomorrow happens to be 50 cent Tuesday so maybe I'll take Olivia to see Ice Age 2 tomorrow evening...or maybe we'll all go...
Sunday, June 11, 2006
What to do with the kids?
So here we are in a hotel, while Daddy goes to work. I've got to figure out what to do with the kids during the day. I'm thinking tomorrow we will go to the library...hmm, I hope it's open.
It's been a busy week...
We just made it to the 1st of 4 hotels we will be staying at over a month's time. We just spent the last week or so at my husband's bachelor uncle's townhouse. I'm sure he is glad to have his place back in one piece!
While staying at their uncle's place, I kept busy during the day commuting Olivia back and forth to preschool. We came back for lunch and naps, then headed out again for dinner with friends every night. My friends really came through. It was nice to go out to eat with my friends and their kids.
Thursday was Olivia's last day of preschool at her Montessori school in the East Bay...sniff...sniff... I just loved her preschool...I wanted to go to school there...ha ha! Friday was her school's end of year picnic. It was loads of fun. All the older students who were going on to Kindergarten ran booths such as cookie decorating, bean bag toss, nail painting, sno cone booth, sack race, etc. And it was potluck so everyone brought sandwiches, salads and desserts. It was relaxed and the kids had fun. It was nice to talk to some of the parents.
Saturday was Olivia' BIG birthday party. She had a Garden Tea Party at a local historic farm. She had a big crowd...about 12 girls that came. It was so nice to have it somewhere where they do all the work...I just brought all the food, cake and goodie bags.
The staff had 'pick up' games such as hula hoops, jumping rope, fishing for plastic fish in a barrel, horseshoes, pin the bee on a flower and they had a potting activity. After some of the games, the girls were served 'tea' which was actually lemonade in beautiful teacups. They were served the sandwiches I made which were cheese/butter and strawberry jam/butter flower shaped sandwiches with goldfish crackers. I completely forgot to take pictures of the sandwiches, they turned out really cute. I used a large flower cookie cutter to cut the bread on one side, on the other I did the same, but also cut a small hole in the middle so it would look like a flower with a middle color. I bought sandwiches from Costco for the parents and made some cucumber/cream cheese sandwiches, too.
After lunch, they played games again and then went on a tour of the farm which included an organic garden and a tractor barn with vintage cars and tractors. We got a priceless picture of all the girls on an old tractor in the field. After the tour, everyone sang happy birthday to Olivia and they were all served cake and ice cream. Everything turned out great, but I think Olivia was overwhelmed with all the attention. When they were getting ready to eat cake some of the girls were fighting over who would sit next to Olivia...poor thing, she didn't know what to do...and I didn't either! It worked out though with some shifting of the kids.
We ended up taking all the gifts home to open after naptime. I like doing the parties this way because the opening of the gifts is just too crazy at this age. I have to say, though, everyone was so generous, she got some terrific toys and books.
I was a little disappointed that 4 girls didn't show up that had said they were coming. Two of them were friends of mine that just completely forgot, the other 2 were girls from school that I didn't really know anyway.
While staying at their uncle's place, I kept busy during the day commuting Olivia back and forth to preschool. We came back for lunch and naps, then headed out again for dinner with friends every night. My friends really came through. It was nice to go out to eat with my friends and their kids.
Thursday was Olivia's last day of preschool at her Montessori school in the East Bay...sniff...sniff... I just loved her preschool...I wanted to go to school there...ha ha! Friday was her school's end of year picnic. It was loads of fun. All the older students who were going on to Kindergarten ran booths such as cookie decorating, bean bag toss, nail painting, sno cone booth, sack race, etc. And it was potluck so everyone brought sandwiches, salads and desserts. It was relaxed and the kids had fun. It was nice to talk to some of the parents.
Saturday was Olivia' BIG birthday party. She had a Garden Tea Party at a local historic farm. She had a big crowd...about 12 girls that came. It was so nice to have it somewhere where they do all the work...I just brought all the food, cake and goodie bags.
The staff had 'pick up' games such as hula hoops, jumping rope, fishing for plastic fish in a barrel, horseshoes, pin the bee on a flower and they had a potting activity. After some of the games, the girls were served 'tea' which was actually lemonade in beautiful teacups. They were served the sandwiches I made which were cheese/butter and strawberry jam/butter flower shaped sandwiches with goldfish crackers. I completely forgot to take pictures of the sandwiches, they turned out really cute. I used a large flower cookie cutter to cut the bread on one side, on the other I did the same, but also cut a small hole in the middle so it would look like a flower with a middle color. I bought sandwiches from Costco for the parents and made some cucumber/cream cheese sandwiches, too.
After lunch, they played games again and then went on a tour of the farm which included an organic garden and a tractor barn with vintage cars and tractors. We got a priceless picture of all the girls on an old tractor in the field. After the tour, everyone sang happy birthday to Olivia and they were all served cake and ice cream. Everything turned out great, but I think Olivia was overwhelmed with all the attention. When they were getting ready to eat cake some of the girls were fighting over who would sit next to Olivia...poor thing, she didn't know what to do...and I didn't either! It worked out though with some shifting of the kids.
We ended up taking all the gifts home to open after naptime. I like doing the parties this way because the opening of the gifts is just too crazy at this age. I have to say, though, everyone was so generous, she got some terrific toys and books.
I was a little disappointed that 4 girls didn't show up that had said they were coming. Two of them were friends of mine that just completely forgot, the other 2 were girls from school that I didn't really know anyway.
Friday, June 02, 2006
We're outta here!
Out of our house that is! We won't move into our new house until June 29th so we'll be "travelin'" till then and won't be able to unpack till after that.
Right now, we will be staying with my husband's uncle who lives about 30 minutes from our old house so that Olivia can finish preschool and have her birthday party.
So far, the move is going well, I took lots of pictures of the move out of our house. When we get in our house and hooked into cable, I can post all about our move.
The girls are exhausted from lack of naps and not enough sleep. Claire decided she wanted to start waking up at 5:30am in the morning (I think she hears the garage door from her great-uncle leaving for work). The girls share a room, so Claire has been keeping Olivia up with her talking. It is NOT fun moving with a toddler, at least I'm not pregnant this time though!
Right now, we will be staying with my husband's uncle who lives about 30 minutes from our old house so that Olivia can finish preschool and have her birthday party.
So far, the move is going well, I took lots of pictures of the move out of our house. When we get in our house and hooked into cable, I can post all about our move.
The girls are exhausted from lack of naps and not enough sleep. Claire decided she wanted to start waking up at 5:30am in the morning (I think she hears the garage door from her great-uncle leaving for work). The girls share a room, so Claire has been keeping Olivia up with her talking. It is NOT fun moving with a toddler, at least I'm not pregnant this time though!
Monday, May 29, 2006
Moving day begins Tuesday
I can't believe we will be out of this house in 2 days. We've been busily getting ready for the movers, taking pictures off the walls, filling in holes, touch up painting, packing toys, packing our bags, cleaning, throwing out stuff.
Sunday, May 28, 2006
Moving is stressful
So the movers come to pack us up on Tuesday, but there is still lots to do before they get here. We have been busy cleaning out junk, giving away things we don't need, selling things we don't need, and trying to organize.
I finally got our deep freezer cleaned out. I started in, what, March.. cleaning that thing out.
Look how full our frig/freezer is though!
I've done pretty well with the pantry, too. Needless to say, I haven't had to buy much groceries in the past month, just milk, some fresh fruits and veggies, bread and a few other things.
I've arranged for some help with the girls. Olivia will go to preschool on Tuesday and she will go home with one of her classmates for a 'playdate' till about 3pm. Another friend of mine will watch Claire most of the day. On Wednesday, Olivia goes to school again, and another friend of mine will watch Claire from around 10:30am, and also Olivia who I will pick up and take her over to the same friend's house while the movers are loading the truck. I'm so thankful to my friends from church for always being there for me.
Some random thoughts in my head.
Should I bring our little potty in case Claire wants to use the potty?
Will our absent landlord give us our deposit back? He also promised us $1000 for showing the house and if the prospective renter rents, which is the case...will he come through? I'm really worried about this because I've heard alot of negative things about him from our neighbor. I just don't want to have to put up a fight, but if we have to, we will take him to small claims court.
I have to pack our bags which we will take in our interim living (bouncing from hotel to hotel). Should I pack light pjs for the girls (for our new place where it's hot) or warm ones (for the Bay area where it's cool at night)? Should I take a booster seat for Claire? Should I bring an extra for her cousin who will be joining us in mid June?
Will I get all our laundry done?
What am I going to do with all the food in our frig? Hopefully a neighbor will take some of the condiments, etc.
Will the house cleaner I hired actually show up to clean the house?
Will we have the right paint colors to do the touch ups?
I finally got our deep freezer cleaned out. I started in, what, March.. cleaning that thing out.
Look how full our frig/freezer is though!
I've done pretty well with the pantry, too. Needless to say, I haven't had to buy much groceries in the past month, just milk, some fresh fruits and veggies, bread and a few other things.
I've arranged for some help with the girls. Olivia will go to preschool on Tuesday and she will go home with one of her classmates for a 'playdate' till about 3pm. Another friend of mine will watch Claire most of the day. On Wednesday, Olivia goes to school again, and another friend of mine will watch Claire from around 10:30am, and also Olivia who I will pick up and take her over to the same friend's house while the movers are loading the truck. I'm so thankful to my friends from church for always being there for me.
Some random thoughts in my head.
Should I bring our little potty in case Claire wants to use the potty?
Will our absent landlord give us our deposit back? He also promised us $1000 for showing the house and if the prospective renter rents, which is the case...will he come through? I'm really worried about this because I've heard alot of negative things about him from our neighbor. I just don't want to have to put up a fight, but if we have to, we will take him to small claims court.
I have to pack our bags which we will take in our interim living (bouncing from hotel to hotel). Should I pack light pjs for the girls (for our new place where it's hot) or warm ones (for the Bay area where it's cool at night)? Should I take a booster seat for Claire? Should I bring an extra for her cousin who will be joining us in mid June?
Will I get all our laundry done?
What am I going to do with all the food in our frig? Hopefully a neighbor will take some of the condiments, etc.
Will the house cleaner I hired actually show up to clean the house?
Will we have the right paint colors to do the touch ups?
Saturday, May 27, 2006
The zoo
So today I met up with 2 friends I met online, J and C. We met online when we were all due in October 2004 and had babies about the same time, now it's the BIO board. It so happens that we live in the same general area, probably 30-45 minutes from each other. It's hard to meet up because of the distance, but since I'm moving, it was so nice to see them and their kids. It was a beautiful day, perfect day for the zoo.
J has a daughter who is also named Olivia and is about 8 months older than my Olivia. All day, my Olivia was so excited about seeing the 'other Olivia', she kept asking when we would see her and we got to the parking lot, she insistently asked 'where's the 'other Olivia', Mommy? Is she coming?' When we got to the zoo and were about to enter, she asked 'where's the 'other Olivia'?' We got to the flamingos where we were supposed to meet, she asked 'where's the 'other Olivia?' Is she coming Mommy?' I decided to end the questions with a potty break and when we got back to the flamingos, thankfully, the 'other Olivia' was there!
I recall about 2 years ago when I was pregnant with Claire and met up with J and her daughter Olivia at this same zoo. She was the first person I ever met up with that I met online. And she is completely normal! And really nice, too :)! When I tell friends IRL that I've met friends online, they give me this incredulous look like they think I might be meeting crazy people or something...lol!
Anyway, the following are pictures from our morning at the zoo.
Here are the 2 Olivia's looking at camels:
Here is Noah and Claire, Noah is the 'other Olivia's' little brother. Poor guy, he was feeling under the weather, he has a cold, but we are all glad he came along. They are pointing at the camels I think.
My Olivia almost immediately grabbed the 'other Olivia's' hand and wanted to run with her through the whole zoo, she tends to be pretty energetic. Here are the Olivias looking at the giraffes, they were so cute together (the Olivias, not so much the giraffes).
Here is Owen and Claire, chilling at the zoo. Owen is C's son, she also has a 5 month old who slept almost the entire time they were at the zoo. Harry is such a cutie, he was very smiley. I, unfortunately, didn't get a picture of him.
So, next, we went to the children's part of the zoo. There is a giant spiderweb for kids to climb on. Here the older girls are climbing the spiderweb. The 'other Olivia' lost her cute birkenstock sandal through the web, so my Olivia climbed off to retrieve it and hand it to the 'other Olivia'.
Here is Claire trying to follow her sister up the web. She is such a climber!
There are some other 'bugs' for the kids to climb on. Claire decided to cimb onto a caterpillar, so Owen decided to join her...I got a picture of him smiling, they look like they are having fun. Noah decided he would rather sit on his mommy's lap. It was so hard to get pictures of everyone together. It was about this point that Owen decided he had some other place to be and he shot off across the lawn...whew, he is fast. He must keep his mommy on his toes. He does not like to sit in his stroller. He reminds a bit of my Olivia when she was about the same age.
Here is a picture of the 3 moms, thanks to J's husband who came along...thanks for taking pictures, T! I need a haircut! I'm the one in the middle. I just don't like pictures of myself anymore, but I felt we needed to have a picture.
The last picture of the 3 BIO babies, Claire, Noah and Owen, who is saying 'it's time to go, Mommy'.
C had to leave after that, the rest of us had a nice, quiet, leisurely lunch together...ha, yeah right! No, actually, it was a nice lunch, the weather was really nice.
After lunch we went to see the elephants, then we had to head home, the whole way home, my Olivia, kept saying she wanted to ride the rides over and over. Maybe next time, Olivia. Claire crashed in the car on the way home and took a really long nap when we got home. Olivia took a nap and even, Mommy, who eventually crashed on the couch.
J has a daughter who is also named Olivia and is about 8 months older than my Olivia. All day, my Olivia was so excited about seeing the 'other Olivia', she kept asking when we would see her and we got to the parking lot, she insistently asked 'where's the 'other Olivia', Mommy? Is she coming?' When we got to the zoo and were about to enter, she asked 'where's the 'other Olivia'?' We got to the flamingos where we were supposed to meet, she asked 'where's the 'other Olivia?' Is she coming Mommy?' I decided to end the questions with a potty break and when we got back to the flamingos, thankfully, the 'other Olivia' was there!
I recall about 2 years ago when I was pregnant with Claire and met up with J and her daughter Olivia at this same zoo. She was the first person I ever met up with that I met online. And she is completely normal! And really nice, too :)! When I tell friends IRL that I've met friends online, they give me this incredulous look like they think I might be meeting crazy people or something...lol!
Anyway, the following are pictures from our morning at the zoo.
Here are the 2 Olivia's looking at camels:
Here is Noah and Claire, Noah is the 'other Olivia's' little brother. Poor guy, he was feeling under the weather, he has a cold, but we are all glad he came along. They are pointing at the camels I think.
My Olivia almost immediately grabbed the 'other Olivia's' hand and wanted to run with her through the whole zoo, she tends to be pretty energetic. Here are the Olivias looking at the giraffes, they were so cute together (the Olivias, not so much the giraffes).
Here is Owen and Claire, chilling at the zoo. Owen is C's son, she also has a 5 month old who slept almost the entire time they were at the zoo. Harry is such a cutie, he was very smiley. I, unfortunately, didn't get a picture of him.
So, next, we went to the children's part of the zoo. There is a giant spiderweb for kids to climb on. Here the older girls are climbing the spiderweb. The 'other Olivia' lost her cute birkenstock sandal through the web, so my Olivia climbed off to retrieve it and hand it to the 'other Olivia'.
Here is Claire trying to follow her sister up the web. She is such a climber!
There are some other 'bugs' for the kids to climb on. Claire decided to cimb onto a caterpillar, so Owen decided to join her...I got a picture of him smiling, they look like they are having fun. Noah decided he would rather sit on his mommy's lap. It was so hard to get pictures of everyone together. It was about this point that Owen decided he had some other place to be and he shot off across the lawn...whew, he is fast. He must keep his mommy on his toes. He does not like to sit in his stroller. He reminds a bit of my Olivia when she was about the same age.
Here is a picture of the 3 moms, thanks to J's husband who came along...thanks for taking pictures, T! I need a haircut! I'm the one in the middle. I just don't like pictures of myself anymore, but I felt we needed to have a picture.
The last picture of the 3 BIO babies, Claire, Noah and Owen, who is saying 'it's time to go, Mommy'.
C had to leave after that, the rest of us had a nice, quiet, leisurely lunch together...ha, yeah right! No, actually, it was a nice lunch, the weather was really nice.
After lunch we went to see the elephants, then we had to head home, the whole way home, my Olivia, kept saying she wanted to ride the rides over and over. Maybe next time, Olivia. Claire crashed in the car on the way home and took a really long nap when we got home. Olivia took a nap and even, Mommy, who eventually crashed on the couch.
Bye Bye T.V.
Here it is loaded up on a truck we rented to take to my husband's cousin who lives an hour and a half from us.
Whew! Now my husband can get a new 'toy'!
Whew! Now my husband can get a new 'toy'!
Park day
Friday, I had to get the girls out of the house, it was a nice day and Olivia was getting stir crazy since she didn't have preschool Thursday (due to school conferences at the end of the week).
My friend, S, who also has 2 girls and is pregnant joined us at the park. We had lunch and spent some time in the wonderful weather chatting while our girls ran off some energy.
My friend, S, who also has 2 girls and is pregnant joined us at the park. We had lunch and spent some time in the wonderful weather chatting while our girls ran off some energy.
Friday, May 26, 2006
From A Deviated Path,
I AM: a happy, kind-hearted, outgoing person.
I WANT: my children to be 'citizens of the world' and to be happy.
I WISH: we could travel more, especially internationally, but it's too hard right now financially and with 2 young kids.
I HATE: when people are negative and complain.
I MISS: our good friends in Texas and good Tex Mex food.
I FEAR: heights and something happening to my family.
I HEAR: mommy, mommy, mommy ALL day....and I love it (mostly)!
I WONDER: how friends that I lost touch with are doing.
I REGRET: not making the most of my education.
I AM NOT: a singer, this was confirmed when I tried to do Karaoke in Japan.
I DANCE: rarely.
I SING: lullabies to my girls.
I CRY: pretty easily and get embarrassed by it.
I AM NOT ALWAYS: myself when I meet people, I always hold back a little for fear of rejection.
I MAKE WITH MY HANDS: baked goods, I love to cook, but mostly I enjoy baking...cookies, and other kinds of desserts.
I WRITE: so that I can vent and so I can brag about my family and to share with my friends.
I CONFUSE: words sometimes, like I might use a word in the wrong context.
I NEED: to keep my family close to me.
I SHOULD: lose weight, exercise, watch what I eat, etc. etc.
I START: my day these days too early so I'm always groggy.
I FINISH: putting my girls to bed with a kiss and a 'sweet dreams'.
This list was really hard! Tag to, you're it! Jessica, RM, Jamie, Amy,
I AM: a happy, kind-hearted, outgoing person.
I WANT: my children to be 'citizens of the world' and to be happy.
I WISH: we could travel more, especially internationally, but it's too hard right now financially and with 2 young kids.
I HATE: when people are negative and complain.
I MISS: our good friends in Texas and good Tex Mex food.
I FEAR: heights and something happening to my family.
I HEAR: mommy, mommy, mommy ALL day....and I love it (mostly)!
I WONDER: how friends that I lost touch with are doing.
I REGRET: not making the most of my education.
I AM NOT: a singer, this was confirmed when I tried to do Karaoke in Japan.
I DANCE: rarely.
I SING: lullabies to my girls.
I CRY: pretty easily and get embarrassed by it.
I AM NOT ALWAYS: myself when I meet people, I always hold back a little for fear of rejection.
I MAKE WITH MY HANDS: baked goods, I love to cook, but mostly I enjoy baking...cookies, and other kinds of desserts.
I WRITE: so that I can vent and so I can brag about my family and to share with my friends.
I CONFUSE: words sometimes, like I might use a word in the wrong context.
I NEED: to keep my family close to me.
I SHOULD: lose weight, exercise, watch what I eat, etc. etc.
I START: my day these days too early so I'm always groggy.
I FINISH: putting my girls to bed with a kiss and a 'sweet dreams'.
This list was really hard! Tag to, you're it! Jessica, RM, Jamie, Amy,
Thursday, May 25, 2006
I stole this from A Deviated Path, interesting:
 | You scored as Dwight Eisenhower. 34th President, in office from 1953-1961 Born: 1890 Died: 1969
Which Great US President Are You Most Like? created with QuizFarm.com |
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Earthquake
I just experienced an earthquake, it scared the heck out of me, although it was only a 3.2. I felt the house move, weird. It was 7 kilometers from where I live.
Claire's Cooking show
So I was on the computer and I turn around and I found Claire "cooking" with dishes from our new play kitchen. She spread the plates out in front of her and she was "sprinkling" something on the plates from the grey can.
Too Funny!
I can't believe how fast she is growing up!
Too Funny!
I can't believe how fast she is growing up!
Monday, May 22, 2006
Look what we got for FREE!
My husband's cousin, R, was so nice to drive 3 1/2 hours roundtrip to bring us this kitchen. His sister's kids have outgrown it and we have been trying to figure out a way to get it for like a year.
We were wanting to give him our big screen tv since my husband wanted a new toy. My stipulation is to get rid of the big screen, as my hard and fast rule is that we will not have more than 3 tvs in our house. So he had his truck, but it had a camper on top and we measured and discussed the measurement of the tv and the weight and in the end, there was no way it was going to fit. I feel so bad he came all the way from Sacramento to the Bay area and now we couldn't get the tv in the truck.
We are still trying to come up with ideas. Uhaul is too expensive, they charge a flat rate plus per mileage.
The girls are really loving their 'new-old kitchen', it has alot more features!
Here's the old kitchen:
This is HUGE!
Claire went pee pee on the potty today...first time for that. Than later she went poo poo. Needless to say, she was very excited about the m&ms!
Sunday, May 21, 2006
Gotta love community theater!
I just took my oldest, Olivia, to see a local production of Cinderella. It was the coolest. For $18 we got to sit one row away from the stage during the show. No, it wasn't Disney or Broadway, but it was Fantastic!
The actress that played the Fairy Godmother was a mom from Olivia's preschool, and she did a great job, Olivia didn't recognize her. It was so much fun, there was even audience participation. This is the first time I have ever gone to a show at a community theater so small. This was a great introduction to the theater for Olivia.
For sure, I will be looking for community theater productions at our new hometown when we move.
The actress that played the Fairy Godmother was a mom from Olivia's preschool, and she did a great job, Olivia didn't recognize her. It was so much fun, there was even audience participation. This is the first time I have ever gone to a show at a community theater so small. This was a great introduction to the theater for Olivia.
For sure, I will be looking for community theater productions at our new hometown when we move.
Saturday, May 20, 2006
I think I'm going to be sick
Well, we managed to get a babysitter tonight since we had a dinner to go to for my husband's work. It was so nice to enjoy a nice meal and adult converstion. I think I drank too much though, I just can't drink like I used to. I didn't even have that much, I'm such a lightweight! I had some wine and a mojito( my new fav drink). And we had lots of food. And now, I think I will more than likely have a hangover tomorrow...ugh!
Friday, May 19, 2006
My inner child
I stole this from Gelbspot...Thanks!
I think it's pretty accurate...
| Your Inner Child Is Surprised |
 You see many things through the eyes of a child. Meaning, you're rarely cynical or jaded. You cherish all of the details in life. Easily fascinated, you enjoy experiencing new things. |
I think it's pretty accurate...
Thursday, May 18, 2006
A conversation with my mother...
mother: I'm worried about Olivia.
me: Oh??
mother: Yes, you said she had brain stem damage.
me: (incredulous) What??????
mother: You told me she had brain stem damage and that's why she had to wear that helmet.
me: (laughing) Uh, no, I didn't... and she wore the 'helmet' to mold her skull due to plagiocephaly.
mother: Oh...
Yes, this conversation actually took place. I haven't really posted alot about my 'eccentric' family...I guess you would say those are the skeletons in my closet.
Just to give you a little background. When Olivia was just a few weeks old, I noticed she always looked to one side and at about a month or so old, I noticed there was some unevenness in her face. She was diagnosed with Plagiocephaly (flattening of the head) and torticollis (tightening of the neck muscle). After getting referrals and seeing specialists, she was finally fitted for a STARband at 9 months. She wore it 23 hours a day for 4 months. It had nothing to do with her brain, her mental abilities, nor her intelligence, it was simply to mold her head so it wasn't lopsided. One of the benefits is that when she was learning to walk and fell on our tile floor, she would bounce right back up!
me: Oh??
mother: Yes, you said she had brain stem damage.
me: (incredulous) What??????
mother: You told me she had brain stem damage and that's why she had to wear that helmet.
me: (laughing) Uh, no, I didn't... and she wore the 'helmet' to mold her skull due to plagiocephaly.
mother: Oh...
Yes, this conversation actually took place. I haven't really posted alot about my 'eccentric' family...I guess you would say those are the skeletons in my closet.
Just to give you a little background. When Olivia was just a few weeks old, I noticed she always looked to one side and at about a month or so old, I noticed there was some unevenness in her face. She was diagnosed with Plagiocephaly (flattening of the head) and torticollis (tightening of the neck muscle). After getting referrals and seeing specialists, she was finally fitted for a STARband at 9 months. She wore it 23 hours a day for 4 months. It had nothing to do with her brain, her mental abilities, nor her intelligence, it was simply to mold her head so it wasn't lopsided. One of the benefits is that when she was learning to walk and fell on our tile floor, she would bounce right back up!
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
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