1. Today was a stereotypical Monday. Complete with an unplanned visit to the pediatrician and almost flat tire. Ty and the tire are both fine (thanks for asking).
2. Speaking of pediatrician, we're moving Ty to a new practice. His first appointment was supposed to be next Friday (before today's aforementioned appointment). We were seen timely and the doctor was super nice. So far so good. Actually, no. So far this place is leaps and bounds better than the last one.
3. I'm trying a new hair cleanser. Not sure what else to call it. It's sulfate free and I like that I only have to use one product to cleanse, condition, and detangle. We'll see how the week progresses.
4. My MIL is arriving tomorrow. No clue how long she's staying (I've given up on getting such itinerary-based info). The house? It's normal state. I don't even have the energy to do the frenetic cleaning I usually do. So she's going to have to settle for clean sheets and a clean bathroom (there are always clean towels. We have enough towels for weeks worth of houseguests - lol).
5. Tomorrow's the first. Man, I love May. Tuesdays usually suck but tomorrow is going to be great. Plus I wrote a post about gifts!
6. We almost ran out of soap. Yeah. It's like that sometimes. Plenty of toilet tissue tho. Priorities.
7. One of my favorite age-inappropriate series has a new book coming out tomorrow (!). The third installment of the Kane Chronicles. Totally excited to have some decent reading material again cause this re-read of Mockingjay is not going well.
8. My favorite cousin is engaged! I haven't inundated her with wedding talk yet because that's annoying. Plus she knows that I stay ready. So whenever she ready to talk its on.
9. (in my Chris Rock No Sex in the Champagne Room voice) You can never have enough cardigans.
10. The last few pieces of jewelry I've purchased have been big. Definitely a departure from my usual. Ever so often you have to mix things up. Keep your style fresh. Listen to me talk like I did this on purpose. I just buy what I like and hope it all eventually works together. It usually does - lol.
♥
April 30, 2012
April 29, 2012
My First 5k
 |
| [Hanging out pre-race with my coworkers Lisa + Jamelle. Yes, we were all #1] |
Notice I didnt say run - lol. Since I had Ty in tow (and ahem, totally fell off my Couch to 5k wagon), we walked the 3.1 miles. Now, normally I would have probably run/walked, but pushing that stroller was a game changer.
 |
| [Ty and I post-race] |
But most importantly, I COMPLETELY underestimated how much more effort would be involved with pushing the stroller. The stroller alone weighs about 25 pounds. Add on another 20 for Ty (at least) another 5 or so for his diaper bag, I pushed 50 pounds around a questionably flat 5k course. Fifty pounds?! Bad bad baad idea in retrospect.
 |
| [Ty loooves Jamelle and the feeling is totally mutual] |
The shadowy (i.e. not so bright) side? I still feel that "workout" in my arms and back today. Today is better than last night, so I anticipate feeling 100% tomorrow.
♥
April 27, 2012
30 Things Every Woman Should Have + Know
This morning, my favorite aunt emailed me (and several other ladies) a list of 30 things that a woman should have and should know by the time she turns 30. I'm pretty sure I've seen this before, but because my 30th birthday is so close (less than 30 days!) the idea of reflecting on my past and my progress has become especially salient.
My aunt, who turns 59 in October included this note before the list: "This is an interesting read. At this age, I can claim most being accomplished, but that I am yet a work in process." I'm almost half her age, and I couldn't agree more.
I also kinda want to adapt this to a party game. Girls only tho. Especially #1, #10, and #12 on the "have" list and #11 on the "know" list. Ladies, you've been warned. ♥
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Turning 30: 30 Things Every Woman Should Have and Should Know
In 1997, Glamour magazine published a story titled "30 Things Every Woman Should Have and Should Know by the Time She's 30." The list, written by Pamela Redmond Satran, was so popular that women started emailing it around, misattributing it to various female luminaries including Maya Angelou and Hillary Clinton. Noting what a phenomenon it had become, the editors of Glamour created a book around it, featuring essays from (mostly) famous women on each of the items on the list. The book, released today, includes meditations from Katie Couric on work and love, Portia de Rossi on accepting your body, and one from the list's original author, who is also a Huffington Post blogger, on how to live alone.
Because the list still makes us so, so happy, we asked Glamour's permission to reprint it here:
By 30, you should have ...
1. One old boyfriend you can imagine going back to and one who reminds you of how far you’ve come.
2. A decent piece of furniture not previously owned by anyone else in your family.
3. Something perfect to wear if the employer or man of your dreams wants to see you in an hour.
4. A purse, a suitcase, and an umbrella you’re not ashamed to be seen carrying.
5. A youth you’re content to move beyond.
6. A past juicy enough that you’re looking forward to retelling it in your old age.
7. The realization that you are actually going to have an old age -- and some money set aside to help fund it.
8. An email address, a voice mailbox, and a bank account -- all of which nobody has access to but you.
9. A résumé that is not even the slightest bit padded.
10. One friend who always makes you laugh and one who lets you cry.
11. A set of screwdrivers, a cordless drill, and a black lace bra.
12. Something ridiculously expensive that you bought for yourself, just because you deserve it.
13. The belief that you deserve it.
14. A skin-care regimen, an exercise routine, and a plan for dealing with those few other facets of life that don’t get better after 30.
15. A solid start on a satisfying career, a satisfying relationship, and all those other facets of life that do get better.
By 30, you should know ...
1. How to fall in love without losing yourself.
2. How you feel about having kids.
3. How to quit a job, break up with a man, and confront a friend without ruining the friendship.
4. When to try harder and when to walk away.
5. How to kiss in a way that communicates perfectly what you would and wouldn’t like to happen next.
6. The names of the secretary of state, your great-grandmothers, and the best tailor in town.
7. How to live alone, even if you don’t like to.
8. Where to go -- be it your best friend’s kitchen table or a yoga mat -- when your soul needs soothing.
9. That you can’t change the length of your legs, the width of your hips, or the nature of your parents.
10. That your childhood may not have been perfect, but it’s over.
11. What you would and wouldn’t do for money or love.
12. That nobody gets away with smoking, drinking, doing drugs, or not flossing for very long.
13. Who you can trust, who you can’t, and why you shouldn’t take it personally.
14. Not to apologize for something that isn’t your fault.
15. Why they say life begins at 30
What's on your personal list of things to have and know -- and possibly do -- before turning 30?
List excerpted from Glamour's "Thirty Things Every Woman Should Have and Should Know By The Time She's 30."
April 18, 2012
Sign
I've had paint on the brain lately. Particularly painting the kitchen. Saw this today. Totally taking this as a sign and heading to Sherwin Williams this weekend!
♥
♥
April 17, 2012
(Early) Morning Thoughts
1. At this point, Ty's crawling style is best described as mimicking soldiers bellying through the underbrush. You're welcome for that visual.
2. I have an idea for a headboard. When I briefly mentioned it last night, Hubs have me an odd look. He needs a visual.
3. We need a grill.
4. What to Expect When You're Expecting is a (fairly dry but comprehensive) reference book. I Still don't understand why someone thought it should be made into a movie.
5. Thinking of going back to 4 day work weeks. Yes, having every Friday off is as awesome as it sounds.
6. Our water bill is stupid high. And to add insult to injury, sometimes I forget to pay it. So basically every few months I get a not so fun surprise from the City of Atlanta.
7. My morehouse brother is coming to town this weekend and I am so excited!
8. My hair and nails are finally a one-stop shop. My calendar and my gas tank cannot thank me enough.
9. I'm in love with a luscious dark teal throw. Too bad C&B wants more than I'm willing to spend (today) on it.
♥
2. I have an idea for a headboard. When I briefly mentioned it last night, Hubs have me an odd look. He needs a visual.
3. We need a grill.
4. What to Expect When You're Expecting is a (fairly dry but comprehensive) reference book. I Still don't understand why someone thought it should be made into a movie.
5. Thinking of going back to 4 day work weeks. Yes, having every Friday off is as awesome as it sounds.
6. Our water bill is stupid high. And to add insult to injury, sometimes I forget to pay it. So basically every few months I get a not so fun surprise from the City of Atlanta.
7. My morehouse brother is coming to town this weekend and I am so excited!
8. My hair and nails are finally a one-stop shop. My calendar and my gas tank cannot thank me enough.
9. I'm in love with a luscious dark teal throw. Too bad C&B wants more than I'm willing to spend (today) on it.
♥
April 15, 2012
We need a toy chest
[Auntie Dani, we'll be needing some of your shopping help - lol]
♥
Unsolicited Advice
In the past few days, I've doled out quite a bit of wedding advice. To ladies that are at various stages in the planning process. They never ask for the advice (hence me deeming it unsolicited), but they're telling me about whatever their issue is in the course of a casual conversation to (more increasingly) see what I think. Those of you who know me off blog already know that I have one main tenet when it comes to wedding planning: The only thing you have to do at your wedding is get married. Everything else, and I do mean everything, is optional.
Maybe I'm just used to getting what I want, but its surprising how many preconceived notions people have about whats "supposed" to happen at weddings. And even more surprising? Often its completely counter to what they'd want at their own! So you hear them saying things like "I don't want [garter toss/million bridesmaids/first dance]" and me responding with a simple "then don't do it." Actually, I usually have to say it a couple of times and reiterate that main idea above before it totally sinks in. Once it does, you can literally see the aha moment and the gears starting to turn. I love it.
In recounting the conversations with my mom last night (everyone does this, right? Tells their mom about chats they've had with other folks), mom abruptly cuts me off and says "this is why you're really good at this." She went on to explain that in the world of wedding reality TV, etiquette books, and Momzillas that my approach is refreshing. Although I could hear the pride in her voice, I was definitely a little caught off guard.
I don't think of it as an approach. That's just what I think about weddings. Weddings - even the small ones - are expensive. And they're (hopefully) once in a lifetime experiences. Why shouldn't you get exactly what you want?
♥
Maybe I'm just used to getting what I want, but its surprising how many preconceived notions people have about whats "supposed" to happen at weddings. And even more surprising? Often its completely counter to what they'd want at their own! So you hear them saying things like "I don't want [garter toss/million bridesmaids/first dance]" and me responding with a simple "then don't do it." Actually, I usually have to say it a couple of times and reiterate that main idea above before it totally sinks in. Once it does, you can literally see the aha moment and the gears starting to turn. I love it.
In recounting the conversations with my mom last night (everyone does this, right? Tells their mom about chats they've had with other folks), mom abruptly cuts me off and says "this is why you're really good at this." She went on to explain that in the world of wedding reality TV, etiquette books, and Momzillas that my approach is refreshing. Although I could hear the pride in her voice, I was definitely a little caught off guard.
I don't think of it as an approach. That's just what I think about weddings. Weddings - even the small ones - are expensive. And they're (hopefully) once in a lifetime experiences. Why shouldn't you get exactly what you want?
♥
April 13, 2012
April 12, 2012
HOMEmaker
Homemaker.
Its a word, that until quite recently I couldn't identify with.
See, I always assumed that homemaker was synonymous with stay-at-home. As in SAHmom or SAHwife (is that a term? think: housewife). But I now know that being a homemaker has nothing to do with whether you work outside of the home.
Homemakers turn houses into homes.
They're the ones that keep things going, keeping the family on track. Notice I didn't mention anything about gender. Although most wives I know are the homemakers, its not a requirement. Hell, homemaking should probably be approached as a partnership, but...well, you know. Around here, I'm the one that makes sure we are all fed, the lights stay on, and that we get where we're supposed to go - when we said we'd be there. Yes, Hubs has input, but when its time to consider the logistics and make the plan, thats usually me. Not complaining. I excel at that stuff so its probably best that I take the lead there. When its time to implement, he's there. He's my action guy. And most of the time he follows directions well. *wink*
So if you wonder why posting gets light around here sometimes, or I complain about needing an assistant, its because my homemaker duties combined with mommyhood and working full-time (outside the home) has worn me out. I can always go for a few extra hours in the day. I'd use one to craft, the second to grocery shop, and use the third on nap. In case you were curious and would like to gift me some extra hours for my birthday...
♥
Its a word, that until quite recently I couldn't identify with.
See, I always assumed that homemaker was synonymous with stay-at-home. As in SAHmom or SAHwife (is that a term? think: housewife). But I now know that being a homemaker has nothing to do with whether you work outside of the home.
Homemakers turn houses into homes.
They're the ones that keep things going, keeping the family on track. Notice I didn't mention anything about gender. Although most wives I know are the homemakers, its not a requirement. Hell, homemaking should probably be approached as a partnership, but...well, you know. Around here, I'm the one that makes sure we are all fed, the lights stay on, and that we get where we're supposed to go - when we said we'd be there. Yes, Hubs has input, but when its time to consider the logistics and make the plan, thats usually me. Not complaining. I excel at that stuff so its probably best that I take the lead there. When its time to implement, he's there. He's my action guy. And most of the time he follows directions well. *wink*
So if you wonder why posting gets light around here sometimes, or I complain about needing an assistant, its because my homemaker duties combined with mommyhood and working full-time (outside the home) has worn me out. I can always go for a few extra hours in the day. I'd use one to craft, the second to grocery shop, and use the third on nap. In case you were curious and would like to gift me some extra hours for my birthday...
♥
April 11, 2012
Photographic Evidence
Just in case you wanted a little proof. Tyler, 8 months old, pulling up.
(pray for us - lol)
(pray for us - lol)
Afternoon Thoughts
1. We are GOING THROUGH IT with Ty and bedtime. Last night we tried something that required I sequester myself in our bedroom with the monitor off and the TV/fan on. Oh and several reasurring texts from my Dani. I relish in the accomplishment of making it until I realize I'm going to have to turn around and do the same thing tonight.
2. Speaking of Ty: He started pulling up yesterday. And he says Ma Ma and Da Da. Not directly to either of us yet (lol), but thats coming.
3. We've officially owned and habitated Smithville a year. And on the eve of our anniversary I found myself doing several firsts. I'll tell you about it in a separate post. In case you're wondering, I still haven't gotten in that jetted tub. *shrug*
4. We survived the road trip to Missouri. I know I should talk about it since at some point my childless Auntie Team will have kiddos of their own and might want some tips, but I just dont want to. Maybe because I'm mentally gearing up for our next trip in a few short weeks. Sigh.
5. The next few months are going to be crazy busy. I'll be traveling for work, we're taking some family trips, I'm turning 30 and getting together with all of my favorite people (like serioiusly, this group hasnt been together since our wedding), and my mom is coming up, and...you get the point.
6. Save the date. August 11, 2012. Ty's first birthday party. What time to kids parties usually start? Wait, no. What time do adult parties that are in honor of children usually start? I was thinking like 4pm.
7. My bestie is moving for love. She probably has no idea that's how I categorize it (until now) and I cant describe how amazing I think she is. I told her last night that we are so lucky to have her. And I mean it.
8. Just when I thought I'd heard all the plays on Patti and Patti Cake, I got tossed a new one today. The unique ones are my favorite. They never get old.
9. Mothers Day. Its my first one AND I'll be with my mom, my MIL, and my MIL's sisters. I think I want to do a little craft or something. Time to hit up Pinterest to see what I can find.
10. Can we go back to my 30th birthday? I am sooo geeked.
11. Its Founders Day for my alma mater Spelman College. I come from a proud legacy of Spelman Women and attending Spelman is hands-down one of the best decisions I've ever made. So even though I did not don my white dress, flesh toned stockings and black pumps, Spelman is especially on my mind and in my heart today. Happy Founders Day Spelman. Your daughters will ALWAYS love you.
♥
2. Speaking of Ty: He started pulling up yesterday. And he says Ma Ma and Da Da. Not directly to either of us yet (lol), but thats coming.
3. We've officially owned and habitated Smithville a year. And on the eve of our anniversary I found myself doing several firsts. I'll tell you about it in a separate post. In case you're wondering, I still haven't gotten in that jetted tub. *shrug*
4. We survived the road trip to Missouri. I know I should talk about it since at some point my childless Auntie Team will have kiddos of their own and might want some tips, but I just dont want to. Maybe because I'm mentally gearing up for our next trip in a few short weeks. Sigh.
5. The next few months are going to be crazy busy. I'll be traveling for work, we're taking some family trips, I'm turning 30 and getting together with all of my favorite people (like serioiusly, this group hasnt been together since our wedding), and my mom is coming up, and...you get the point.
6. Save the date. August 11, 2012. Ty's first birthday party. What time to kids parties usually start? Wait, no. What time do adult parties that are in honor of children usually start? I was thinking like 4pm.
7. My bestie is moving for love. She probably has no idea that's how I categorize it (until now) and I cant describe how amazing I think she is. I told her last night that we are so lucky to have her. And I mean it.
8. Just when I thought I'd heard all the plays on Patti and Patti Cake, I got tossed a new one today. The unique ones are my favorite. They never get old.
9. Mothers Day. Its my first one AND I'll be with my mom, my MIL, and my MIL's sisters. I think I want to do a little craft or something. Time to hit up Pinterest to see what I can find.
10. Can we go back to my 30th birthday? I am sooo geeked.
11. Its Founders Day for my alma mater Spelman College. I come from a proud legacy of Spelman Women and attending Spelman is hands-down one of the best decisions I've ever made. So even though I did not don my white dress, flesh toned stockings and black pumps, Spelman is especially on my mind and in my heart today. Happy Founders Day Spelman. Your daughters will ALWAYS love you.
♥
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