Dot Com Family

Breakblog: Breaking the blog fast

2009-06-01T14:45:00.006-04:00

After a long break from my blog, I've decided to break the fast and blog again. Since last December, I've started a new job that I love. It's been a good move. Overall it will be better for me and my family. Still, I'm not planning to write much about my job here because this blog is about my family.

Amazingly, we are now on the verge of summer break. The school year is ending on June 10. We have not fully set up our plans for the summer. This is driving me crazy, but I should be used to this by now. We hope to visit Massachusetts and see family and friends in August.

Several weeks ago we celebrated Owen's fifth birthday. We hosted a fun pizza party with 24 people. It was a lot of fun.

Owen is starting to learn to speak Spanish. He is enrolled in a dual language program. He was resistant at first and still fights it sometimes. I hope to keep him in this program so he will be bilingual.

Zoe is has formed strong friendships (with mostly boys) in school and at the Artscenter after school program. She is growing fast. She traveled by plane by herself for the first time this year. She flew to Boston and spent spring break with my family. It was a big success and we're hoping she can do it again soon.

My husband is working too much, but we're used to that too. The economy is largely to blame. He's not turning down any projects.

I'm looking forward to the future and happier than I've been in a while. We're overjoyed with our new President and the direction that the country is going. It is encouraging and hopeful.

Happy Christmas, Ian!

2008-12-19T13:40:00.000-05:00

It's hard to believe that this is little baby Ian. He looks like a little man!

Happy Christmas to our little English/American man!

looking scary

2008-11-01T00:32:00.000-04:00

Halloween!

2008-10-31T13:48:00.000-04:00

New beginnings

2008-09-04T11:03:00.007-04:00

The new school year has begun. Summer just flew by. Zoe started fourth grade at a brand new school. We're working with her to get on track with her homework and staying on schedule. She is trying her best, but some days are tough.

Here’s a photo of Zoe on her first day of school. My sister Leesa sent her a box full of new clothes from Old Navy. Thanks, Leesa!

Owen started Pre-K this year. It's a dual-language program with half the day in English, and half in Spanish. I hope he absorbs the Spanish like a sponge. I think its essential to know Spanish, and that it is much easier to learn it when you are young.

We've been struggling to stay on schedule. We are not morning people and Zoe’s school bus is at 7:05! Due to first the Olympics, and now the Presidential party politics we’ve been sleep deprived. As responsible parents, we have to make things work. You do what it takes.

Bob was in Denver visiting his sister Amy just days before the DNC. He snagged me a few Democratic momentos. I'm a proud Democrat and I am hopeful for a new administration next year. Just think of the new beginnings we can celebrate together.

Remembrance

2008-08-15T22:47:00.004-04:00

Yesterday was the anniversary of our son Benjamin's death. We lit our candle and thought about him. We wondered what he would be like and who he would look like. We still wonder why, oh why? So many unanswered questions remain. It is always a tough day to get through.

Happy Birthday Zoe!

2008-08-05T12:45:00.000-04:00

Silly Owen

2008-07-30T20:04:00.003-04:00

Yesterday I stayed home with my kids all day on our staycation. Actually, they played together while I worked from my home office.

Owen and Zoe had fun hanging out together. They did things that they haven't done for a while like playing with Playdoh.

They ate Popsicle (orange mustache!).

They got a hold of my camera. The footage is classic silly Owen.

They have been playing their Nintendo DS games.

Now, it's time to play outside.

Boxes of stuff

2008-07-30T20:01:00.000-04:00

I have too much yarn, and my husband has too many wires. And, we both have too many books. Of course, all I see are his things, and all he sees are mine. I was a bit upset when he came home yesterday with four boxes of wires. Normally, I put up with it given that I have a lot, no a flock of sheep's worth of yarn. Sigh.

So, since we have another day or two left of our staycation, I am going to continue to work on my stash, and encourage Bob to work on his.

Staycation update

2008-07-27T09:38:00.005-04:00

Well, the first day of our staycation was not a vacation at all. It was hard work. We uncluttered the house, cleaned up the yard, cleaned up the deck, refilled the birdfeeders, did laundry, paid bills, and generally put our affairs in order. It’s all the things and more that we’ve been meaning to do for a while, but didn’t find the time or energy to do. By the end of the day, my back was hurting, but things were in much better shape.

We hosted a sleepover guest for my daughter. That did force us to order pizza for dinner. At least after all that work, we didn’t have to cook and clean up the kitchen after dinner.

Our daughter Zoe is turning ten years old on August 3. Where has that time gone? As dutiful parents, we have been trying to organize a birthday party for her. She wanted a sleep over with all her friends, and a traditional birthday party with streamers and balloons, and naturally a big cake.

Alas, most of her friends are actually away on real vacations. My guess is that the bad economy hasn’t hit the well-heeled crowd of Chapel Hill, NC. So, we’re taking her available friends throughout the week for smaller get-togethers. Last night, we had a sleepover, today a visit to Kanki, a local Japanese restaurant, tomorrow a trip to the museum, a trip to the water park, plan to see a movie later in the week, and maybe another sleep over. Phew! A weeklong birthday is more work and more fun for all.

Happy (week-long) Birthday, Zoe!

Taking a "staycation"

2008-07-17T11:22:00.000-04:00

This year we are spending our vacation time on a "staycation" in our home in Chapel Hill, NC. We would love to go to Boston, like we did last year. It would be wonderful to take a cruise, or finally bring the kids to Disney, but we are wary of spending too much. We are not feeling deprived altogether. We do have a short get-away planned for Labor Day weekend and another in early November.

We do plan to take a day trip or two to the beach or the mountains. We plan to see more of our beautiful region. The list includes taking a hike, riding our bikes, and hanging out together. We are scheduling a visit the local museums and zoo. It will be enjoyable and we’ll have a few hundred dollars saved.

Inflation

2008-06-25T13:05:00.006-04:00

Hey, I was interviewed last week because the cost of school lunch is going up by ten cents. Sadly, I end up sounding rather pompous. Here's the full story.

I can handle this minor increase of ten cents. It's just one of the many costs of having children. You are obliged to buy or make their lunch.

I think about the women who work to prepare these meals. To me, they are heroic. I could not cope with 600 children every day. I do hope that these workers are given an increase so that they can feed their children. On July 1, the minimum wage in North Carolina increased to $6.55 per hour. Let's hope that these working women earn more than the minimum wage.

When I grew up, one of six children, our family was eligible for reduced-fee school lunch. They were horrible lunches. We were served mystery meat, hot dogs and beans, sloppy joes and canned corn, and fish sticks with tater tots on Fridays. Remember Regan's draconian cuts in food stamps and school lunch programs? Remember, catsup as a vegetable?

Today, we know better. Now, kids are given options, with fresh vegtables and fruits. They don't always select the healthy stuff, but at least it's a choice.

Now, don't get me started on the price of gas.

My mosaic

2008-06-22T23:11:00.005-04:00

Tonight I decided to do a meme. It looked like fun, so here we go.

The Instructions:

a. Type your answer to each of the questions below into Flickr Search.
b. Using only the first page, pick an image.
c. Copy and paste each of the URLs for the images into fd’s mosaic maker.

The Questions:

What is your first name? Susan
What is your favorite food? Thai food
What high school did you go to? Boston Latin Academy
What is your favorite color? Teal
Who is your celebrity crush? Thomas Jefferson
Favorite drink? Lemonade
Dream vacation? Hawaii
Favorite dessert? Mocha Mousse Cake
What do you want to be when you grow up? Knitter
What do you love most in life? Family
One word to describe you? Yarn
Your flickr name? knitfix

Here's my results:

1. Black-Eyed Susans, 2. Hot &Tasty Thai food, 3. BLA, 4. so swollen, 5. Moon over Jefferson, 6. If life throws you a lemon - make lemonade., 7. Turtle Numba Two, 8. coffee and chocolate mousse cake, 9. Knitter, 10. Family Portrait, 11. The Colour Wheel according to Wollmeise, 12. Tooth Pillow

I want to do that again! -- Hillsborough Hog Day

2008-06-22T21:39:00.014-04:00

Yesterday, we went to Hog Day in Hillsborough. We went two years ago and this year was much better. Now, Owen can enjoy rides. Alas, Zoe has grown so tall, that some of the rides are too small for her. Bob & I just pay for everything and try not to loose the kids. Owen emerged from every ride shouting, "I want to do that again!"

There's an annual BBQ contest that is taken very seriously. We sampled bbq pork sandwiches with cool coleslaw and lively vinegary sauce. We needed cold drinks after that. We gladly paid $5 for a large home made lemonade. The hog was very yummy, even for us yankees.

We tried a few more rides, and talked to the local political groups and candidates.

We even managed to vote early before we left Hillsborough.

Owen sliding down the big ship slide!

Riding the mechanical bull was scary.

Grandpa and Grandma come to visit

2008-06-21T14:18:00.000-04:00

Flying solo at the library

2008-06-19T12:47:00.004-04:00

Last night, my kind husband brought the kids to their swimming lesson. They take swimming on Monday and Wednesday night at our neighborhood pool. I went on Monday, dragged my visiting mother along, and we sweated for over an hour. During swim lessons, nobody else is allowed in the pool.

With this nice bit of freedom, I went to the Chapel Hill library BY MYSELF for only the second time since we moved here four years ago. Going to the library solo is such a gift. I was able to browse, look up several books that I've been meaning to read, and actually read at the library. I returned all but three books, extended the three that are outstanding, paid off our overdue fees, and replaced my card with the nifty key-chain version. It's amazing what simple pleasures there are to be had.

Father's Day Brunch at Crook's Corner

2008-06-17T16:49:00.000-04:00

In honor of Father's Day, and my visiting parents, we all went out for brunch at Crook's Corner. Crook's serves authentic southern food. Naturally, I had to take my yankee parents there.

After shrimp and grits, pancakes, bacon, and strawberries, we all had to take it easy for the afternoon.

Ice skating in the heat wave

2008-06-11T23:13:00.004-04:00

Early June has been very hot. We've had four days over 100 degrees Celsius, and more over 90 degrees. Our tempers are flaring along with the temps outside. So, on Sunday, we were very happy when the Brownies field trip was scheduled for the local ice rink.

Owen had his first time on skates. He had lots of help and was very brave. Ms. Katie was a trouper and helped Owen around the rink twice.

Soccer warm up

2008-06-06T17:26:00.001-04:00

Owen is learning to love soccer. His coach is a such nice guy. I have to try hard not to laugh at the kids. Coaching four year olds is like hearding cats.

Soccer Mom

2008-05-10T14:28:00.004-04:00

Owen and Zoe have joined the local soccer team. They have caught on pretty well with the basics of the game.

It was bound to happen sooner or later. Well, I am now officially a Soccer Mom. We have the house in the suburbs. We have the mini-van. We have the two soccer playing kids.

Back from Mexico with new teeth

2008-05-10T11:33:00.003-04:00

Off to Mexico, for dental work

2008-04-29T22:36:00.006-04:00

Tomorrow, I am flying to Phoenix, AZ. Then I will drive 200 miles to Yuma, AZ. Yuma is a border town with Mexico.

In the past, I have enjoyed visiting Mexico for several wonderful vacations. This time it's purely economic. I'm going to Mexico for dental work. I need four root canals with crowns and a couple fillings done. Sadly, given the state of my teeth, I need either a second mortgage on my house or a trip south of the border.

In North Carolina, a going rate for one root canal and crown costs around $2,000. My dental plan will pay for a small part. But, it does not cover crowns, and has a cap of $1,500 per person per year. I need at least 4, maybe a few more. That would cost me $8,000.

In Mexico, a full root canal, x-rays, build-up and crown cost $375!

The Mexican dentist that I'm going to comes highly recommended by my mother-in-law who has been to see them a couple times. She lives in AZ, and has had fairly complex work done with them. I trust her opinion. Even so, I'm nervous.

I'll update the blog with my progress. While I prefer to head south of the border for some real guacamole (and maybe a margarita or two, too!) Wish me luck and think of me under the drill, not under a sombrero.

Our trip to Build a Bear Workshop

2008-04-21T15:20:00.000-04:00

Owen was the lucky recipient of a gift card from Auntie Amy for Build a Bear Workshop. He was thrilled. He picked out a cheetah and named him Charlie.

Zoe cuts Owen's birthday cake

2008-03-23T19:01:00.006-04:00

Here's some footage of Owen after he blew out his candles. There are days when Zoe is such a little kid, and others when she shows her maturity. I think this shows how grown up she is becoming. Fittingly, this was at her little brother's party.

The kids had their faces painted at the Purim celebration at our temple. It was a nice way to celebrate Owen's birthday.

Since he was sick the previous week, and Bob became and continues to be very sick with pneumonia, it's been a tough couple weeks. Bob is still quite sick now. As a result, we could not plan a big birthday party for Owen.

When I was about six or seven, I remember the entire family was sick for my mid-January birthday more than once. I remember my mom pulling out a frozen cherry pie for one birthday. That was a big huge disappointment. It was certainly not what I wanted.

Another year when I turned ten my birthday was missed again. I brattishly insisted that my name be added to my sister Leesa's cake. Her birthday is a month after mine in February. We had the bakery lady to pipe in pink frosting: "Happy Birthday Sue-Lee!" The bakery lady asked us if the recipient was Chinese.

Happy Birthday Owen!

2008-03-15T19:43:00.001-04:00

As you can see, Owen is doing better. Tomorrow is his forth birtday. My sisters sent him this terrific T-shirt. Good for a Boston boy nearly born on St. Patrick's day.

Walking Pneumonia

2008-03-11T15:03:00.000-04:00

Poor little Owen has been sick with walking pneumonia. He's been running high fevers and has a very bad cough. We've each been suffering with something bad for the past few weeks. In this picture, he's climbed into my sweater for some comfort and warmth. He actually looks pretty good considering.

It's nearly his birthday. We're not sure if he'll be up for a party. These germs are running rampant in the area. So, I'm hesitant to schedule anything.

It's been a rough winter with lots of challenges. Let's hope it is soon forgotten with the upcoming Spring.

k. d. lang at UNC's Memorial Hall

2008-03-06T14:24:00.000-05:00

Wow, that’s all I can say. Zoe and I went to the k. d. lang performance at UNC's Memorial Hall in Chapel Hill. It was a thrilling event for me.

The last time I saw her was in Boston before Zoe was born. It’s pretty clear that k. d. lang enjoyed herself last night. I was amused to see that she can smile while singing. She had a wonderful response from and connection with the audience.

The concert featured songs from her latest album, Watershed, and several from Hymns of the 49th Parallel album. Her amazing voice, transformed Leonard Cohen’s "Hallelujah." She brought tears to my eyes.

Zoe was very upset that she did not sing her personal favorite, "After the Gold Rush" (Neil Young). Still, she was happy to have a night on the town with mom.

Memorial Hall is a beautifully-restored venue. The opening act touring with k. d. lang is a very accomplished pianist, Dustin O'Halloran. As far as piano instrumentals go, it was excellent.

Adult Education

2008-02-13T15:54:00.000-05:00

I am a firm believer in life-long learning. Perhaps it’s my publishing background where I collaborate with such smart authors and publishing professionals. I try to challenge myself to try new things, and even allow myself to experiment and fail.

In Carrboro, we have a great art school called the Artscenter. I’ve taken two courses and plan to take more. Sadly, most of the classes that I am interested in are on Tuesday nights when my knitting group meets.

Here are the courses that I’ve signed up for this spring:

2011: ADVANCED WEB WEAVING WITH DREAMWEAVER AND FIREWORKS

Explore advanced methods for creating Web sites using these two popular applications, with the emphasis on Dreamweaver. Increase your familiarity with the HTML codes that underlie every web page and learn how to manipulate blocks of content through the use of common tags. Go beyond the basics to learn how to use cascading style sheets and server-side includes to enliven your pages and easily control the look of an entire site from only a few files. Learn how to incorporate media objects in your pages, and how to create and add graphic buttons and simple, layer-based animation.

2066: ABSOLUTE BEGINNER SEWING

Are you afraid of your sewing machine? Do you try to sew but can't get past the tangle in the bobbin? This class is even more basic than basic sewing. Bring your sewing machine (or use ours) and learn how a sewing machine sews, all about thread, needles and much more. You will learn how your machine sews and what to do when it doesn't work. Turn that repair or costume project from a chore to a joy.

2021: WRITING AND DRAWING CARTOONING FOR ADULTS

A course for both writers and artists. Learn to write and illustrate your own stories or write and draw your own editorial cartoons, comic strips and comic books. We will explore the history and development of cartooning and learn the chemistry of humor and drama told in both words and pictures; learn how to visually design your characters so they fit their parts; caricature your favorite (or least favorite) public figures and visually editorialize your views of them; and study the direction and timing that goes into creating sequential art-from greeting cards and multi-paneled comic strips to comic books and graphic novels.

Our recent visit to Boston

2008-02-10T19:37:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago, I took my kids to Boston to visit my family. My dad's health is not doing well, so it was nice to see him.

My sister Marianne was very generous to buy us all tickets. We spent time with her and her boyfriend. My kids were very excited about the snow and her dogs.

We went to the aquarium together. It was hard to manage Owen there. My sister doesn't have kids, and she was surprised by my two. She offered to bring them to an orphanage. They are a handful to say the least.

We went to Tricia and Mick's house next. It was great to see them and their amazing baby Ian. Zoe had a great time playing mommy with Ian.

I left the kids with family for a night on the town. Four of us went out to the theater. It was very nice to do something adult for a change.

We took the kids on the subway. Owen loves trains so it was a special treat for him. It's amusing to me that my kids are such country bumpkins. I grew up in the city and my mom didn't drive until I was 10. She used to take us "downtown" on the bus and subway.

We went to have lunch at my friend Christine's place. She lives in the finacial district near the waterfront. Owen climbed on their sofa, tried to jump out the window, licked their windows, and nearly broke their blinds. Luckily, my kids didn't break anything. It wasn't for lack of trying. We walked to the Children's Museum. My kids were pretty rotten, and my friend who also has no kids was very tollerant. Very.

We had a family birthday party with cake and candles. The cake was amazing, from my favorite Boston bakery.

It was nice to see everyone and have a few days back home.

2008-01-12T23:09:00.001-05:00

Owen's Diner

2008-01-12T11:30:00.000-05:00

There's a little cute diner in Chapel Hill called Owen's 501 Diner. It's located on the 501 highway. We point it out to our Owen as we drive by. And, a few weeks ago we all went there for lunch. Now our Owen calls it "my diner." Every time we pass by it he says, "Mom, I want to go to my diner."

Some people think diners are greasy spoons. As America evolves into a place with a Subway franchise (28678 Restaurants In 86 Countries) in every strip mall, unique places like diners are few and far between. Give me a diner any day over the usual sprawl. To me, a diner is a welcome sight. You don't know what you miss until they're gone.

Recently, I was surprised to see the Englewood Diner in a movie scene. The diner used to be located in my neighborhood in Dorchester, Mass. When I worked at a local community newspaper, I used to sell ads to the owner of the diner. It was adorable. I used to visit it a couple times a year. The movie was featured in The Road to Perdition with Tom Hanks, Jude Law, and Paul Newman. While listening to the director's commentary, I was interested to learn that the Englewood Diner had been purchased on EBay for $20,000.

So, when I get a bit homesick, I can pop in the Perdition DVD and remember my favorite diner. It is nice to see the Englewood Diner forever captured on film, but I'd rather be able to have their home-made corn beef hash and poached eggs.

What is a Democrat to do?

2008-01-08T17:24:00.000-05:00

What is a liberal, white, working class female Democrat to do?

Of course, any Democrat would be better than the current occupant of the White House. I would be delighted with Obama, thrilled with Hillary, and pleased with Edwards. It's fabulous to have three terrific top candidates. But, you have to pick one. It is a hard decision. Especially for someone like me.

Obama is very smart. I admire him. I would be so proud if America elected a black man President. I do wonder if his style has enough substance. Does it?

I read his memoir of his childhood. It was very moving. He has youth on his side. He could run again in four, eight, or twelve years. How wise is he?

Hillary is amazing. She is a woman. It's high time we have a woman. That could be reason enough for me, but there is so much more. She survived the Republican scourge and humiliating scandals. Clearly she is brave, and smart. She has wisdom. She has Bill.

A first lady normally concerns herself with writing books about dogs, or wearing nice clothes. Hillary tried to fix our health care system.

Edwards is a local. We live in the same town. As Tip O'Neill said, "All politics is local." He is a self made man. He is a champion for the working class and poor. He much like Al Gore was robbed last time.

Spoilt for choice for President?

Since today is the New Hampshire Primary, I'm getting excited about the race. One of my sisters lives in New Hampshire and we frequently compare notes. She is not very politically active, but she does vote. She has been called repeatedly for weeks. She has been invited to many political events. On the other hand, I have not been contacted by anyone.

Iowa do us proud

2008-01-03T11:42:00.000-05:00

Why the fate of this nation is to be decided upon by some, um, yahoos in cornfields is beyond me. Why does one state get to decide? It's just like hanging chads or the electoral college. Our country is diluting the power of the voters to actually decide.

And, we wonder why people don't bother to vote. I see people more interested in American Idol than the election. Maybe it's because they actually believe that their individual votes count.

Now, I do vote, and don't watch American Idol. So maybe I'm the exception?

All I'm asking is that you Iowans to do the right thing. I ask that you do us proud and remedy the sickness we've been under. And, I'll try to stop calling you yahoos.

Phone home

2008-01-02T20:57:00.000-05:00

I'm not much of a phone person. I used to be, but it seems to have evaporated like my ability to congugate Latin verbs. It's not quite as bad as going to the dentist(a whole other aversion), but it's rare. So, if you are lucky enough to get a phone call from me, be grateful and kind. I probably had to talk myself into it and then push myself to do it. I blame e-mail and the internet, but it is really me.

It's been a very cold day with actual flurries. We were all delighted. Everyone left the office to look at the snow. It didn't stick but still snow is so rare an event that it stops the normal routine. It's now very cold (23 degrees!) and we're finally digging out our winter clothes.

Happy New Year to all

2008-01-01T16:55:00.000-05:00

First, we want to wish our friends and family a very Happy New Year. 2008 is going to be a great year. I'm sure of it.

We had quiet holidays spending time with the kids and resting. We snuck in some work too. We caught up with a stuff in the house. Since Bob is self-employed he has lots of trouble slowing down.

Bob worked too much and we squabbled about it. The kids alternated between being very demanding or becoming zombies by television. We rented DVDs and tried to fit in some time outside when it wasn't raining. We limit them to 1/2 hour or less a day with more on the weekends. It's just not feasible on a very wet long winter break.

We did more cooking and eating than usual. We made some treats and some traditions. We made Latkes to instill the tradition even though neither of my kids like them. We made cookies and brownies--big surprise--they do like them. I made a few experimental journeys in the kitchen. Thanks to Cooks Illustrated, I learned how to make French Onion Soup from scratch and Almost No-Knead Bread. The soup was amazing and I will make it again. The bread was still too much fuss for me. Since bakeries with good bread abound, it is better to leave bread to the professionals.

We caught up on some reading and crafting. The kids did some painting with watercolors and of course I knit. I'm catching up on several projects and trying to resist starting new ones. Even so, I started a simple Aran vest for Owen. I'm nearly done with the back. And, Zoe is really enjoying the Harry Potter books. She is deep into book five.

Bob & I celebrated the anniversary of our marriage in style with two kids in tow at a local fish restaurant. No, it was not romantic, but at least we were together. We will have many more with just the two of us. Our kids will have their own agendas. For now it's the awesome foursome.

Of course there were some missing things, first we missed all of you. And, we wished for snow. Even though we desperately need the rain here, we were sad that it didn't snow.

Happy New Year

2007-12-27T20:56:00.000-05:00

Giving Thanks 2007

2007-12-12T23:40:00.001-05:00

Thanksgiving Day 2007

2007-12-12T23:39:00.000-05:00

Light the Menorah

2007-12-12T21:56:00.000-05:00

Fever and feeling yucky

2007-12-07T16:13:00.000-05:00

Owen was so yucky sick that he didn't want to open his Hanukkah gift. Luckily, Zoe was happy to help. The gift did perk him up a lot.

Home sick

2007-12-07T16:02:00.000-05:00

My kids have been home sick for most of the past two weeks. It's been rough. Bob is still in a cast, and now out of town for a couple nights. Woe is me.

Can't you hear the whistle blowing?

2007-11-17T20:55:00.000-05:00

Zoe on the train

2007-11-17T10:52:00.000-05:00

New Hope Valley Railway & Bob's wrist

2007-11-16T21:47:00.001-05:00

Last weekend we all went on a New Hope Valley Railway Train ride. It was a blast for Owen. We all were glad we went, but Owen was thrilled. He wanted to go back the next day.
I've always been a fan of trains and train travel. Over the years, I've read a several of Paul Theroux's train travel books. It is amazing how noisy, messy, smelly and slow steam trains are. Reading about it is much nicer than actually doing it.

On a different note, Bob had surgery on his wrist today. He had a nasty rebuild of his bones and tendons due to a bad Ganglion cyst. It went pretty well, but it was more involved than they expected. This is the second surgery for this condition, so we're hoping it works this time. He's not supposed to work or drive for 10 days. Right, like that's going to happen. And, He'll need a cast for 6 weeks. Mercy, it's going to be a tough ten days. He's pretty loopy on the pain meds. He keeps asking me the same questions over and over again. The most frequent questions are about whether or not the surgeon was confident, or did he get it all? Go to sleep now, Bob. Thank you, Percosets.

Red Sox Nation

2007-11-14T16:57:00.000-05:00

Ian the little cherub

2007-11-14T16:56:00.000-05:00

Ian! the cherub

2007-10-30T17:10:00.000-04:00

Ian is SO CUTE! We wanted to keep him. Zoe and I tried to hide him when his parents were packing up the car. We hid him amonst my yarn. He was pretty quiet, and it took them a while to find him. I wasn't even upset when he spit up all over my yarn!

Proud Auntie

2007-10-30T17:01:00.000-04:00

the Joy of Sox

2007-10-30T16:43:00.000-04:00

We're so thrilled that the Red Sox have won the 2007 World Series. Of course, it was a much bigger thrill in 2004 after so many years of heartache.

Part of my family came to visit for a long weekend. It was a lot of fun to have a group of Sox Fans visiting during the the end of the series. On Sunday, we dressed the kids up all in Sox gear and red socks to have their pictures taken together. I'll post those when they're ready.

Sue's t-shirts

2007-10-30T15:25:00.000-04:00

Sue gave my kids beautiful crafty Halloween t-shirts. We're getting in the spirit.
Thanks so much Sue!

Owen & Uncle Mick

2007-10-30T15:21:00.000-04:00

More at the NC State Fair

2007-10-17T22:15:00.000-04:00

We had some junk food, crazy rides, and a lot of laughs at the NC State Fair.

Jalopy Junction at the NC State Fair

2007-10-17T22:04:00.000-04:00

NC State Fair

2007-10-17T21:53:00.000-04:00

We had to blow off some steam this week, so we went to the State Fair.
Now, I need to get back to reality.

My good guys

2007-10-17T21:47:00.001-04:00

Here is a recent picture of Bob and Owen enjoying lunch at Panera after Sunday school. Today I want to focus on these two good guys.

A while ago, there was a book written by Rabbi Harold S. Kushner called When Bad Things Happen to Good People. I found a bit of commfort in reading this book when something very bad happened to my family. A good title does help a book a LOT. It did pretty well. I'm ready to write a new one called When Bad People Happen to Good People.

We've had a rough couple weeks with bad outside influences. I'm happy to say that the end is in sight and that we're moving on from the problem. We've had some unbelievable upheaval and now it's time to smooth out and de-stress.

Daniel's visit

2007-10-02T17:54:00.000-04:00

I'm overdue to update several things to my blog. This draft will have to do. I will add more links.

We had exciting visitors. Our new little friend Daniel kindly brought his parents to visit us!

We had a great time. We had fun being tourists in our own town. We went to WholeFoods, drove through UNC's campus. We went to the Carrboro Farmer's Market, LocoPops, Franklin Street, Southern Season. We drove out to the country to see tobacco in the fields, visited Hillsborough, ate at a nice Mexican restaurant (yum) and back to the mall for the wonder that is Southern Season! Now, did I forget anything?

Daniel was a delight. He's a great baby. We had so much fun.

There is something righteous about going to the gym

2007-10-02T13:30:00.000-04:00

Did you ever notice the smug, happy looks on the faces of people coming out of the gym? When are we ever so righteous or proud? No, we certainly do not feel this good--not after leaving the dentist (ouch!), not after (finally) getting a pedicure, and certainly not after attending a PTA meeting. I have felt same on a few other special proud occasions. I have sported the look a few times in the past. I have felt it in the past like the day before and of our wedding, and when I brought home our kids from the hospital.

I’ve seen it on other people too. It’s rare, but nice to see. Lately, I’ve seen it a lot more often. There is something righteous about going to the gym.

What is more virtuous a feeling than leaving your gym with a flushed face, slightly, wobbly knees and the burn in muscles you don’t ordinarily use on a normal day? Well, I’m still at it. I just finished week four. Now, I have that self-righteous, satisfied look.

Peace, love and understanding

2007-09-17T22:04:00.000-04:00

Bob and I went to a concert last week. It was Elvis Costello and the NC Symphony. Now, Elvis is a blast from my past. He was very popular when I was in college. He toured and performed at UMASS. The big show was sold out. My boyfriend, at the time, and I managed to see him after his show. He played a set with his girlfriend, at the time, with the band The Pogues at the on-campus bar the Cage. In early 1993, I saw him on a snowy St. Patrick's Day concert at Boston Symphony Hall playing his collaboration with the Brodsky Quartet on The Juliet Letters. That was a wonderful night. Now, he's working with a full orchestra!

The concert was held at the Koka Booth Amphitheater in Cary. It was an outdoor concert -- a beautiful night. His performance was strong. He emphasized his anti-war sentiments and love for America. He also seemed happier, talking about his happy marriage and infant twin sons. He joked and belted out some passionate oldies but goodies. He joked that he tries to imagine that we're all the hot young things we used to be when we first discovered him. It seems that the angry young man has grown up, just like the rest of us.

It was a late night for us. We didn't get home until midnight. I even had to wake up the sleeping babysitter--gulp! The very next morning I had to dash to the airport for a trip to Atlanta. I'm not sure why I had to go. I put in some face time with the boss and some VIP authors.

Now, back to the ususal work week...

Working out is hard to do

2007-09-11T14:45:00.000-04:00

I've made it through a full week of working out at the gym. I'm sore, but already feeling stronger. It's really hard to do, but so is doing nothing.

I had a session today with my personal trainer. We worked on my arms, legs and abs. She is very good. I think she can borrow clothes from Zoe.

Since joining the gym, I've been every work day. I haven't gone on the weekend yet, but I will add that in the next month or so. Our weekends are so busy with housework, projects, friends, and the kids.

My goal is to stick with this for a year. One down, fifty-one to go!

A new school year

2007-09-06T15:06:00.000-04:00

At the beginning of every school year, I used to get excited and anxious to start new habits and to focus my energies. The fall used to be my favorite season. It's changed a bit since we moved to Chapel Hill where the spring is amazing. We never had much spring in Boston. I love crisp fall days with sunny blue skies and fresh cool air.

Even though I am no longer in school, I still try to re-start in the fall. I try to take on new challenges and start new projects.

This past month, I have been focusing on getting in shape. I joined a local gym. I signed up for a year membership! I've even been going to the gym. (Please don't faint!) And, a first, I met with a personal trainer. I'm learning how to use the machines and get on a program. I'm excited because I have never had the training and individual attention that I clearly need.

Wish me luck, and no injuries!

2007-08-28T21:51:00.000-04:00

First day of school

2007-08-27T22:06:00.000-04:00

Zoe started third grade today. She was very excited and happy. Her teacher seems great. We are hoping all goes well this year.

15 years

2007-08-27T22:03:00.000-04:00

Today is our 15th wedding anniversary. We had some help celebrating.

Happy Anniversary--and many more.

Because Bob loves the Dead, I'll quote them: "What a long strange trip it's been."

2007-08-26T21:31:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow is both the first day of school for Zoe (third grade!) and our wedding anniversary (15 years!). Zoe is excited about school. We all went to school on "meet the teacher" night last week. I've heard good things about her teacher. The word on the street is good. We are breathing a sigh of relief. That will be a huge improvement over last year.

We spent the weekend getting better organized. We put away old toys. It's a huge uphill battle at our house. We have too much stuff and more shows up every day.

We went to Target and bought some cube shelves and canvas bins to hold the zillions of Lego's and train tracks. We picked out some new clothes and school supplies. We're ready for what we need, but we're not quite mentally ready. The temps are still in the high 90s. We're still in shorts and t-shits. We want to languish a bit more at least until after Labor Day.

Alas, we don't get to determine the school schedule. It's going to rough getting up at 6 AM again. We got off schedule in June, and have not been able to get back on track yet. It takes more discipline than I can muster. I think it has to do with not getting enough vacation time. We're worn out and just plain tired.

As the kids get older, it will get better. Middle school starts an hour later than elementary school. High school start an hour later than middle school. Until then, I will get up earlier and be better prepared. We have at least ten more years of this, so we have to make peace with it. But, I do reserve the right to complain about it.

Ian and Marianne

2007-08-25T19:22:00.000-04:00

birth announcement for Ian

2007-08-25T19:08:00.000-04:00

Teach them well

2007-08-21T22:14:00.000-04:00

Zoe spent half of her summer vacation at a sports camp swimming and ice skating. She spent the rest of the summer at the ArtsCenter doing dramatic and crafty arts. It seems that the dramatic arts have set in well.

A while ago, I was dropping Zoe off at a birthday party. On the short drive to the other child's house, I spent the time reminding Zoe to be polite, to say happy birthday, to remember to say please and thank you, and all the usual mom stuff.

A couple hours later, when I picked her up from the party, I asked her how it went. She said it was great that she had a fun time. Then, I asked her if she had followed my instruction to be polite and say happy birthday, please, thank you, etc. She said, "Sorry mom, I forgot my lines."

Ready, set, go!

2007-08-15T23:02:00.000-04:00

The joy of children is infectious and so sweet. Do you remember how much fun it was to go to the park? Of course you do.

Licking the spoon

2007-08-15T22:08:00.000-04:00

Owen loves chocolate. He is absolutely, definitely, 100% positively my son.

Boston Fish Pier

2007-08-14T00:11:00.000-04:00

Lobster

2007-08-14T00:09:00.000-04:00

Ian the wonder boy

2007-08-13T23:41:00.000-04:00

Pecked to death by a duck

2007-08-13T16:37:00.000-04:00

We saw this pillow at shop called Funusual at Quincy Market in Boston. Because I have children, I could not afford to buy this pillow. At least we had a good laugh.

I'll have a few more pictures and notations to post about our vacation.

Baby love

2007-08-09T16:56:00.000-04:00

It's interesting to observe my kids's different response to their new cousin. Zoe thinks Ian is a baby doll and wants to hold him all the time. "Can I hold him?" "Can I hold him again?" "If I'm good, can I hold the baby?" on and on...

Owen, on the other hand, pretty much ignores him. He's not jealous but is just not into babies. I did tell him I wanted to take Ian home with me. He told me I can't because the mommy would cry.

Ian

2007-08-09T12:48:00.000-04:00

Oh happy day

2007-08-04T09:27:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was Zoe's 9th birthday. And today we are welcoming my sister Tricia and her husband Mick's new son to our family.

He was born in the wee hours of the morning. We don't know his name yet.

We're all thrilled and happy to have a new cousin/nephew. Good job Mick and Tricia. We're packing our bags and heading to Boston. We can't wait to meet him.

BIG boys and their BIG toys

2007-07-23T21:18:00.000-04:00

Owen is delirious with joy. And, he has a new summer haircut that when wet is spikey. He looks so grown up. He is also moving into the danger zone for toys:

He recently received this big present. It's a big hit. These sort of things are very popular in our neighborhood. I'm pretty sure that they are not a good thing. I think this is where the moms and the dads part company.

I see trips to the emergency room. My husband sees his childhood. And, I know, I know, they should be wearing helmets.

On a side note, we had amazing weather for the past couple days. It is notable how much the weather affects my mood. I'm going to have to pay more attention to this.

Conditions are improving slowly

2007-07-22T11:11:00.000-04:00

I'm getting out of my funk. The weather is much better this weekend. In fact, it's beautiful. My husband is doing well with his work. My work is slowly improving. My kids are not getting on my nerves as much. I'm making plans and not just moping and moaning.

My youngest sister is expecting a baby in a few weeks. We're all excited. This will be my very first niece or nephew on my side. We don't know the sex. Zoe wants a girl and Owen wants a boy, naturally.

I'm sad I didn't get to go my cousin Joe's wedding up in Newport, RI. It was held yesterday. I really hate missing big family events. I hope to hear more about it from family who did attend. I hope to make it to his sister's wedding which is scheduled for early October.

Of course, I rather go up to Boston after my sister has her baby. Maybe waiting to go in October would be best. It would be too costly to go so many times.

It's just one of the trade offs for moving away.

When Mama Ain't Happy, Ain't Nobody Happy

2007-07-02T15:49:00.000-04:00

It's been a bad week--too hot, too crabby, and too miserable. My husband is working too much. My kids are acting up like hooligans. I'm in a big funk. I was so mad I packed a suitcase and threatened to move out. I'm not yet back to my senses, but I'm trying to calm down.

I'm having a mini-life crisis or something. I'm not going into details here. It's time for some changes.

Baking brownies

2007-06-28T20:35:00.000-04:00

Owen is our little chocolate-aholic. He has learned to mix and bake brownies since they are his favorite treat. This kid takes after me more and more every day.

Gifts from down under

2007-06-03T18:18:00.000-04:00

The other day we received a lovely surprise from our friends in Australia. We were all delighted with the surprise.

There was something for all of us. Chocolate and more chocolate!

T-shirts for the kids. They are perfect for them. They had some sport with me while I tried to photograph them together.

A gorgeous knitting magazine, Yarn. I may have to subscribe to this one.

Clip on Koala bears that carry the Australian flag. Zoe and Owen have already named theirs and are squabbling over the other two. Zoe quickly let us know that a Koala is not a bear but a marsupial. (Good to know!)

The Museum of Forgotten Art Supplies

2007-05-29T21:48:00.000-04:00

Since I've been in publishing since, well, ahem, a LONG TIME, I have seen new technology come and go from the art and production side. Usually I'm happy to see the old stuff go and thrilled to usher in the new technology. Still, I was feeling surprisingly nostalgic whilst looking over the former tools of my trade at the online museum.

Yes, indeed, the world has changed for the better. We've been swept up into it. I remember the smell of the waxer, the mangled fingers from the X-ACTO knives, and the press-on type. Now, I never went to art school but I have used most of these tools at some point in my career.

Thank you, Apple. Thank you, Adobe. Thank you, even evil Microsoft.

Carrboro Elementary School Fair

2007-05-16T20:02:00.000-04:00

Zoe and Owen became tigers at the school fair. We had a fun time, but the weather was not good.

Owen is difficult to manage at things like this. He runs off and gets lost in the crowd. We lost him at least eight times.

We spent the whole day and a lot of money to support our school. I took pictures for the school newsletter, The Carrboro Chalkboard. You can download a PDF from the school website. I'm pretty happy with the results.

a healthy appetite

2007-05-05T21:40:00.000-04:00

Owen loves pasta, plain with no sauce.

I'm in no shape to exercise

2007-05-01T15:39:00.000-04:00

Yes, I'm in no shape to exercise. Sad, but true. Well, we have started to exercise every night. We're starting slow with walking. Walking is the only thing we can all do together. It's day five and I'm trying to figure out how to fit it in tonight. Tuesdays, I usually work late and go out from 7-9. I'm either going to have to go after 9PM, or leave work early and walk before my usual Tuesday night knitting group.

And, it's pretty hot today. I'm not ready for the heat. Once it gets hot, walking after dusk is much more tolerable. Or, we'll have to switch to early morning or in-door exercise. Of course, the pool will also be an option in a few weeks.

We're trying to go after dinner. We all went for a 25-minute walk last night. We had to nearly drag the kids for the last block.

I have trouble starting while the kids are raring to go. I'm always coming up with excuses. But, no more. That's it. We're doing it.

T.V. time

2007-04-19T12:52:00.000-04:00

There is an ongoing struggle between the parents and the kids in our home. The struggle can get pretty ugly at times. They want more T.V. time, and we want them to have less. As you can see from these pictures, they are transfixed by T.V.

We do place strict limits on T.V. time because these kids would watch T.V. all day if we let them. We try to limit them to a half an hour a day on school nights. In fact, there's lots of nights with none because we run out of time.

It's a bit of a struggle with the adults too. I enjoy many programs. Bob doesn't watch ANY. So, I'm the bad influence on the kids. Lately we've been watching a stunning series on the Discovery channel. Planet Earth show. For years, I've enjoyed watching the PBS Nature show. As he passes by, Bob just groans, "Oh, no, more sea otters!"

On the weekends, I have started a tradition of Saturday movie night. I enjoy movies and want to have some fun traditions with my kids. Since most of the movies are animation or other mind-numbing, rated-G ilk, I get in some reading or take up my knitting.

We've recently started using REDBOX $1 per night DVD rentals. So easy, cheap and good, I dropped Netflicks. As we say in Boston, they are wicked pissa.

So, we rent a movie, we make popcorn, and we have some T.V. time.

Don't be angry. Don't be busy. Don't be sad.

2007-04-16T22:26:00.000-04:00

Owen is learning language at a gallop. And, he now carefully studies facial expressions to get a sense of your mood.

On Saturday, he was begging for my attention while I was trying to read. I was not responsive enough for him. He tugged on my shirt and said,"Help me now." When I didn't respond he said, "Don't be angry, don't be busy, don't be sad." Now those are words to live by.

happy children

2007-04-13T21:10:00.000-04:00

Clivia miniata in bloom

2007-04-13T15:41:00.000-04:00

I'm thrilled that my beloved Clivia miniata is now in bloom. I've heard that they survive outside in this climate, but I'm nervous. Maybe I'll divide it after it blooms, and put part of it outside.

I bought this tiny cutting over eight years ago at a Massachusetts Horticultural Society plant sale. Now it is bursting out of its pot.

Well, there's always next year

2007-04-10T22:21:00.000-04:00

Zoe's second grade school pictures

What can I say, at least she didn't close her eyes like I did in one of my school pictures.

She'll probably be upset that I posted this picture. She's still beautiful to me.

Be still my heart

2007-04-10T17:42:00.000-04:00

Today, Owen had to visit the pediatric cardiologist at UNC. We've been worried about him since his three-year-old check up a few weeks ago. His regular pediatrician said she heard a heart murmur that she had never heard before. She said he needed to see a cardiologist.

We were distraught and concerned about our big strapping boy. We were further dismayed to find it takes a LONG time to get an appointment for a pediatric cardiologist if your case is not urgent. So, we pulled some strings with a few neighbors. A kindly doctor in the neighborhood (another good reason to live amongst so many doctors!) managed to get us an appointment in less than three months.

We were concerned that after the cardiologist listened to his heart, he ordered an ultrasound to get a better picture of the blood flow. So, off he went for that test. Owen was a trouper.

The excellent news is that he's fine and it's not a concern. We were worried all for nothing. Such is parenting...

Bessi

2007-04-06T12:43:00.000-04:00

It's nearly the end of spring break. Zoe and Owen are at home with Bessi, our regular babysitter. She is amazing. My kids love her because she lets them be kids.

Even though Owen cries "No Bessi, No Bessi!" when he sees her, he is usually laughing before I leave. This is a sign that Owen is growing up. He used to cry and carry on when we left. Now, he gives me a kiss good bye and continues with his trains or other toys.

Bessi has had seven of her own children. She is a bit older than I am, but she is already a grandmother. I admire and appreciate all she does for us.

You like pencils and so do I

2007-04-04T22:28:00.000-04:00

I found a scrap of paper at the bottom of Zoe's backpack. It lists some of the nice things that her classmates wrote about her:
"You are a great student. You often carry the ball outside for us. You are very cool. You have cool imaginary friends. You have a great imagination. You are nice. You are open-minded and a lot of fun. You like to share. You do your best. I like your clothes. You like pencils and so do I."

Puppy Love

2007-03-27T22:51:00.000-04:00

At work today, we had a little visitor. This is Loki, a baby bassett hound. Isn't he the sweetest thing?

I wanted to put him in my bag and take him home.

Carrboro Farmers' Market

2007-03-24T14:57:00.000-04:00

Today we visited the Carrboro Farmer's Market.

We bought garden plants, cut flowers, cheese, eggs and pork. Zoe and Owen were thrilled with the pussy willows. We just had to buy a bunch of them. I remember loving pussy willows when I was a kid. I remember stroking their fuzzy tips. They grew in a neighbor's yard. We were always excited when they bloomed in the early spring.

I grew up a city kid. We used to take drives to the country to pick apples or buy pumpkins. We didn't know or understand about locally-raised produce or local farms. Our food came from the supermarket in plastic bags.

Now, I appreciate local produce and crafts. I try to visit the market with my kids at least once a month. And, we go on the farm tour, and try to grow some herbs and vegetables. It's all a part of why we moved here to improve the quality of our life.

Carolina Blue

2007-03-22T21:19:00.000-04:00

Today I picked up the kids and we went to Wilson Park in Carrboro. The weather was lovely. The sky here is just an incredible blue. Spring is a wonderful time here. We have to savor it because summer is just too much. It was hard to pull away and be the responsible adult. We could have stayed until nightfall.

Spring in Boston was a fleeting and short season. You can miss it if you are busy and don't deliberately pay attention. Sometimes we missed it altogether. One year, I went to the UK for nine days in April and we missed the Boston Spring. Here we get a true Spring with warm days and blue skies.

The flowers are blooming and everyone is sneezing from the pollen. The Bradford Pear trees are white as if covered by snow when in fact they are flowers. I can't say I appreciate their aroma, but they are lovely to drive past.

Here's a special shout out to my friend Anna. Happy Birthday! I hope to catch up with you soon.

My husband is away for a couple days, so I'm doing all the tough adult work. I had to miss book group tonight even though I actually finished the book early. It's too bad, because I was eager to hear what people thought about the book.

Pullen Park, Raleigh, NC

2007-03-20T13:49:00.000-04:00

We took the kids to Pullen Park on Saturday. They have a terrific old carosel, mini train and boat rides. We want to go back when it's a warmer day.

Make a wish and blow

2007-03-16T22:38:00.000-04:00

Happy Birtday Owen!

2007-03-16T22:11:00.000-04:00

M&M World in Times Square

2007-03-16T22:08:00.000-04:00