Wednesday, October 29, 2014

jai's thoughts on inglewood elementary school

The thoughts below were posted on a slightly different form on facebook.com/bmitd67 last night in response to an article in the Nashville Scene and another in The Tennessean. I haven't used our blog in a long time but I thought this was a good reason.


First, let me say that I do believe the educators inside of KIPP Nashville work hard to for the betterment of their students. Second, this is NOT an official Inglewood Elementary or IES PTO statement. This is the statement of the father of a thriving first grader at Inglewood Elementary School.

That being said...
It appears that Dr. Register has all but handed Inglewood Elementary School over to KIPP Nashville. It also appears that Dr. Register doesn't know his schools or possibly, doesn't care to be bothered by them.On the big day that Dr. Register was scheduled to come to Inglewood, about a month ago, he had a full schedule and he made it clear that Inglewood wasn't really a priority. 

First, he was almost 30 min late for his meeting with PTO leadership and he brushed off his tardiness with a joke about not remembering where Inglewood was. He presented and listened but most of his responses were combative and dismissive. For example, the PTO expressed that despite our frustration at how difficult it was to get parental participation the PTO had more than doubled. His response: "That's not good enough."  When presented with stats about trends in growth and trends in attrition he squashed them because we weren't dealing with the kids struggling right now. He was presented with some contradictions to his facts and he ignored them.
Next he was scheduled to tour the school and visit classes. Instead, he rushed off to a ribbon cutting. He was about 30 min late for the faculty meeting in the afternoon, but he did cut that off so the community meeting would start on time. 

In the Scene's article he said:
“.. I acknowledge that feedback from the meeting. That was faculty and community members, very few parents there."

There is plenty of video and photo to show that our library was packed, SRO, with a diverse group of individuals. Yes. we did have a lot of community members there and therein lies the rub. Dr. Register doesn't understand Inglewood or East Nashville.The fact that he couldn't recognize that this was an audience filled with caretakers of our kids who include Aunts, Uncles, Grandparents and Parents.

A factual point. We had a sign in sheet not everyone signed in and not all who signed in gave addresses (~100) but over half of those who signed in were residents of the Inglewood ES Zone(~50). Those of us who were there saw many of our fellow parents and grandparents but we are Inglewood and we all have a vested interest in the children in that school.

I guess because there were a few very vocal attendees who were not from Inglewood that was all he saw. Maybe because our families and communities members "handed his ass to him" as one administrator told another a few days after our meeting. I don't know but he obviously didn't understand who he was talking to. This past weekend some of us went canvassing around the school where we met several multigenerational Inglewood households, where we met people who have lived within a 1/2 mile of the school for 40 years. We met folks with dilapidated duplex stoops within two houses of a neatly manicured cottage to a set of those new "tall and skinnies". Dr. Register doesn't understand this about Inglewood, heck about East Nashville, but KIPP does. This sense of community is part of the reason why they are so interested in Inglewood, a school building that is 3 miles away, across Gallatin Rd. and in a separate MNPS cluster.

KIPP is ready to try a new model, a community school model. They have hired a bright, excited young principal from one of their more creative schools in Philadelphia, according to Randy Dowell, head of KIPP Nashville. Dr. Register and his team have given up on the community and the creativity of their principals unlike Randy, who fully believes in his mission and his team. I believe KIPP sees this as an opportunity to change the charter landscape b/c Inglewood isn't your typical high-poverty, high-minority population neighborhood where they typically situate their schools. Inglewood is diverse in a very East Nashville kind of way. Inglewood has a couple of streets of black folk and then a couple of streets of white folk next to a couple of streets where everybody lives together. The same goes with economics; some well off, next to some less well off but all within the relatively tight economic bracket. Inglewood is becoming younger and more hipster but streets and areas like Rock CIty, Bronte, and Glenmeade are still entrenched with the type of families (sometimes THE same families) who have been there since my parents moved onto Delmas in 1966.

KIPP wants something special but as the preliminary results of the PTO's "Future of Inglewood Elementry School" survey given to parents via folders are showing we don't want anything to do with KIPP. The Paideia path is more popular than charter (no offense East). A full half of the respondents want STEaM as our educational model with a pathway to Litton Middle and on to Stratford. The PTO will release the full report within the next few days.

So, even if KIPP understands the uniqueness of Inglewood better than Dr. Register they need to understand one particular idea - we want NO part of KIPP. If they come my children will go and they will not be alone. I will also say that some within this community are not opposed to organizing a walk-out come next August if KIPP comes in.
Have you ever seen a walkout by 5 and 6 year olds? I can guarantee it will be adorable.

Saturday, October 18, 2014

Hard Wax Joy!

A few months ago I decided that I needed to use hard wax to handle my underarm hairs. I did some research on hard wax. Then I bought a wax warmer (space saver kind) & found some organic wax (2 for 1 sale too!), read the instructions & jumped in. You know new learning curve, I'd gotten really good (fast) at waxing underarms with Parissa wax strips.

1. You have to warm up the wax & stir it to check that wax is warm enough to apply, but not so hot that is too thin & HOT to apply to skin. Ouch!
2. First time was challenging, it took longer than previous self-waxing experiences had been.
3. However, the hair removal was worth it. Incredible! Hardly have to tweeze. Love it!
4. Since I have hot pot of wax, I take care of many more areas then just UA, lip, chin, brow.

The chin is probably the hardest area to ignore for 2 weeks, especially when I'm used to tweezing whenever is necessary. I want to tweeze ALL the time!

I've used hard wax 3 times & it's still awesome. I love it & hope I continue to have the patience to wait to wax my chin ... so hard to wait!

Saturday, October 11, 2014

October Julia quotes

10/5/14 
Julia spent night at my mom's after our weekend camping trip
Apparently they watched "Masterpiece Theatre" - a murder mystery

Julia's account of what happened ...
"a woman shot people, she was mad at man who did brain surgery, he was drinking ... alcohol and hurt a boy named Nabil."

Interesting happenings overnight @ Grandma Bonnie's!!!
What happens at Grandma Bonnie's, stays at GB's??!! : )

10/11/14
Julia & I were organizing some papers & photos.
She was very helpful, likes to look for patterns of course.
However, this was very random!

"I am out of cemetery ... I don't mean "I'm out of cemetery, I'm dead!"
"It means I won the game."

I really don't understand what that means. She is really smart, but sometimes she says sentences that don't make sense. This is 1 of those times. : )

Tuesday, September 9, 2014

School Board protest

Again writing post weeks after the fact. UGH! It has been a busy month - started with this issue!

Basically parents at IES found out that there was talk/rumor about closing or converting the school to charter. Low scores put IES on Priority List (bottom 5% in state). There are lots of reasons for us moving to bottom, but IES wasn't high on list before. However, we are upset because parents were not informed. There was an article in newspaper a few weeks ago.

PTO organized a campaign to tell school system what we want for IES - support for current principal, keep school open & provide needed resources in order to educate students.
We created a flyer with action steps & passed it out at car rider line.  We emailed & called parents.
We encouraged parents to email (or call) Superintendent, our School Board member as well as press.
We signed up speakers at School board meeting - 2 IES parents & Community PTO supporter.

It was great. Lots of positive comments! Then Superintendent presented his plan "3rd Way" to handle Priority Schools, particularly in East Nashville. It was unbelievable. Lots of drama!

Friday, August 29, 2014

Stratford High School football

First home football game - also Elementary School Night
We showed up for tailgating & game wearing our IES spirit wear. Lots of fun, good crowd!

While watching the game
Probably best Julia quote ever ... "is football about violence?"

3 more home games, plan to be there for Community PTO tailgating.
Fun & food & people watching!

Sunday, August 24, 2014

"Rock Star" - not Cleaner

I asked Julia to clean up her area.  Then later in the van, I asked her to pick up some stuff on the floor. This is what she said to me: " I am a Rock Star and an Artist, not a Cleaner."
Then she proceeded to tell me "You boss everyone around & we don't like it."
I said something about even rock stars & artists were children who cleaned up after themselves!

Apparently there has been discussion among my family members.
THEY don't like being bossed around!

My response - clean up your stuff. Simple! : )

Friday, August 22, 2014

Missed Bus (MTA) 2X this week!

The title of post explains it all. I usually ride the bus 1-2X ... so this week I didn't ride it at all!
I'm going to try to ride 2-3 times next week. I'll let you know how it goes. : )

Thursday, August 21, 2014

Parent meeting/PTO success

Once again I am backfilling posts ... I wish I could write posts more quickly. I read emails usually within day or so, why cannot do that with blog posts.

Anyway, today (8/21/14) we had Parent meeting at J's school.
It was good turn-out. We learned what's happening at IES.
Exciting news like Reading Recovery program for first grade students to help basic reading skills.
Also Reading Clinic for other students to help with reading deficits.

  • We had food & drinks! 
  • We had more teachers present than last year. 
  • Some teachers helped with child care. 
  • We elected PTO officers. 
  • We had door prizes. 
  • We have meeting dates set for year. 

Overall it was great!

Wednesday, August 6, 2014

First Day of School

Hope everyone that started school today had a good first day!

Julia greeted me with 
"It was awesome to be in first grade. I love my teacher!" 
... ahh, those are good words to hear.
Little tears are forming again as I write. : )

I had "best FIRST day ever" (15 years as MNPS employee) - it was amazing!
Extremely impressed with how smooth the day went at Amqui ES.
I'm exhausted, but it was good day.

Enjoy tomorrow off if you have kids (sarcasm as I know you might wish it wasn't so) at home.  They get back to school on Friday (school buildings are used for election sites so that is why no school on Thursday).

Remember to vote tomorrow! Long lines mean participation! : )

Monday, August 4, 2014

New Commute, New Transportation possibly

I like my new commute, very little traffic, fewer miles, less time in car.
How will I listen to those audio books anymore?! : )
I'll probably leave home around same time in order to avoid school zones (hate them!!!).
Also allow me to have some quiet time in office, maybe get some tasks done (I can tell that I will be running ALL day like at previous schools!).
I am going to explore taking bus to work since I live & work now 0.25 mi from Gallatin Road.
I am sure it will likely mean a longer day.
No driving, less wear & tear on 11 year old car, walk to bus stops - all good!
Regardless it is a more peaceful transition for me from home to work.
Drive home is more traffic, more people awake I guess, but nothing like driving home from PMES.

Update on bus (mid-August):
MTA Swipe & Ride program - I thought was free since Jai used it at NPL.
It is free IF employer pays for it. Unlike NPL, the state, Vanderbilt, MNPS does not. : (
This year is first for MS & HS students having free bus passes which is awesome.
It will help with traffic & less teen drivers on the road! : )
However, it would be fantastic if MNPS paid for employees as it would help with traffic & stress.
I tweeted about it & included @MetroSchools as Jai taught me. I doubt it will be retweeted as other tweets have been! : )

Regardless I purchased a 20 ride local pass = 10 trips. My goal is to ride bus 3 days a week. I will have some kind of PTO meeting almost every week & there will be day I miss bus or want to drive.
I rode it 1 day last week (I had appointments or meetings other days). It was fine.

I cut it close in morning - bus was almost there when I got to stop. I caught up on some texts I'd not had time to reply. Walk to school was farther than I estimated. A colleague saw me & hestitated to stop. It was funny! I had plenty of time in afternoon & got to stop no problem. However, bus was late which had me worried! I texted some more! : ) Then I got off in wrong place & had longer walk home. Not bad overall. I need to have magazine or book, maybe get audio book on my shuffle.

Friday, August 1, 2014

Happy Birthday, Tara!

This is what I wrote to my friends on day before my birthday! : )

Dear Friends!
Well, today is my last day as 43 ... OMG! I cannot believe I am "mid-40's" - HA!
Yep, though I am a planner, I am now sending email with plan for dinner tomorrow.
Nothing fancy or wild, but craving some Drunken Fried Rice so Thai it is.
I'm getting it Medium too - kids will have to get another dish!
We heard Pad Thai Kitchen on W. Eastland closed so this is our other favorite place in East Nashville.
Friday, August 1
5:30pm - yes, we eat early.
We're basically senior citizens with young children!
207 Woodland St, Nashville, TN 37213
(615) 248-7933
If you want to join us, come on!

It was fun. 15 people total, 9 adults, 5 kids.
We had interesting service, not typical, but kept us guessing. 
Also they bought a cake & sang "Happy Birthday" - that was hilarious!

We'll probably still have some folks over later in August for casual back yard "party."
Grill meat, kids play in baby pool, nothing fancy AT ALL!

Tuesday, July 29, 2014

Julia's AFRO!

While cleaning (future post-dated post to be written soon I hope) in bathroom closet, I found this comb/pick. I don't use a pick, but it probably came in a package with comb & I kept it. I throw away lots of things, but you never know when someone might need a pick. : ) So anyway I decide to put it in cup on sink counter that holds girls' brush & comb, not really thinking that anyone will notice. I don't know what I was thinking - of course, Julia would notice. I'm surprised Jacqueline hasn't, but she's not really into hair yet. ANYWAY, Julia started messing with it, using it on her hair. Whew, buddy! She blows out her hair into quite an afro.

Obviously it is time for her "back to school" haircut. Actually it is. Darn! Another item for To Do list. :( : )

Regardless, every night that girl is using that pick on her hair. Also I got bottle of Beautiful Curls detangler & leave-in conditioner for all us "girls" to use (love that stuff) & she likes it so she puts that on hair too. HILARIOUS! You know she really wants some long hair to swing around like all her classmates were doing last year. Nope, not going to happen ... until she plans to take care of her hair, it is staying short & I usually cut their hair. Maybe the afro will be her thing! : )

Sunday, July 27, 2014

Summer 2014 projects

This is list I wrote on June 4 I think. : )
Many of these tasks have been on a list for a long time.
Highlighted/crossed out items are ones accomplished ... some will get moved to new list, hopefully not many!
Highlighted items are in progress ... not quite completed! Close, but no cigar. : )

  • hang rod & curtain in doorway of Tara's office
  • contact company re: garage renovation (now has become basement project)
  • Julia ride Bike (independently, even with training wheels)
  • Jacqueline potty trained
  • Julia write comic (something she & Jai were doing together) - I really don't know re: its status
  • Get additional needed camping gear & supplies (go to Friedman's, yard sales, Amazon)
  • organize & clean (basement, garage, Jai's office, Tara's office) - Jai did office while we were in NC
  • Go to Y outdoor pool often - duh, like this wouldn't happen!
  • Get "new" lawn mower (pawn shop, Goodwill, FreeCycle before purchase @ Home Depot)
  • Get picnic table - Julia & Jai DIY project, very colorfully painted!
  • BUGS - find solution (company we'd hired for 2 years wasn't doing it!) - hired new company, better
  • Fix basement door knob & handle
  • Fix cot (been in Tara's office for years, Julia broke it after we'd had it for a week!)
  • Fix back door handle - this was recent addition, but really concerned re: personal & house safety)
  • piano tuned, lessons for Julia

Here's August & future lists. Happy Reading!
Mid-August update, these Highlighted/crossed out items have been completed. : )

Deadline: August 31

  1. drill hole in middle of picnic table
  2. get umbrella for picnic table
  3. hang Nicaraguan breastfeeding picture (finally got frame!!!, gift received when Jacqueline was baby!)
  4. get frames for 2 more items (Jac's Mother's Day poem [original one broke], RPCV poster)
  5. continue potty training efforts with Jac
  6. Tree work done (week of Aug. 4 or 11) (removed TALL hemlock & holly bushes from front)
  7. Tennis date with friend (Tara)
  8. Dude date with friend (Jai)
  9. Trim shrubs (front & back), vines on mailbox - Jai doesn't want to do this, cannot barely see box!
  10. Date Night (Aug. 2 girls @ Parents Night Out, Aug. 9 girls @ Bonnie) - until September, yay!!!!

Deadline: January 2015

  • piano tuned, lessons for Julia
  • regular weekly tennis play (with friend or join league) (Tara)
  • consistent daily & weekly Exercise schedule (BOTH)
  • Lose at least 2 pounds per month (BOTH) - June 2015 goal: Tara (25 lbs), Jai (50 lbs)
  • decide on plan for 10 year wedding anniversary celebration in June 2015 (BOTH)
  • Jacqueline is potty trained! (BOTH/Jai)
  • monthly dude date with friend (Jai)
  • Garage purge - every Saturday in August (until done!) for 2 hours - see notes below

GOAL: fill trash can weekly (not typical occurrence), take appropriate items to Trinity Lane

  1. toilet (been there for 2.5 years!)
  2. "upstairs" loft area - what is up there??!!
  3. hang bike(s) - GET bike for Tara (hers stolen 2-3 years ago!)
  4. wood shop area - clean & organize it!
  5. sweep out leave, cobwebs
  6. LOTS MORE!!!




Saturday, July 26, 2014

"I know Math"

That is what Julia says to friend Nieves at our spontaneous playdate/snack dinner yesterday.
I don't remember what they were discussing, but that was Julia's response.
She was right, but oh, the confidence & attitude.
Who does she remind me of ...? : )

Friday, July 25, 2014

Organizational Anxiety (Home & Work)

This post really is being written 3 weeks later in mid-August ... well ... that's what I do.

I return to work on Monday, July 28. Summer break is over after 7 weeks ... not shabby at all, very great vacation time as MNPS employee. Despite 14 years of this process, I have anxiety about returning to work - like I've forgotten how to do my job & my brain stops functioning. It is strange, but true. In addition, I am going to a new school where I know no one other than principal & assistant principal whom I met ONCE in the interview. Not that I care about having friends at work, but my shy side is feeling scared about going to a new place.

Anyway, back to blog title. Not that I haven't done anything all summer, but there were a few items on my Summer To Do list (future post-dated blog post) that I had not tackled - my office, bathroom closet, garage, basement - some hail-Mary attempts were made. Sometimes it seems silly with less time, you'd think I'd read book or go to Y pool or combine those 2 and just relax. Nope, I freak out, need order in the ensuing chaos so I organize. Jai dislikes post-vacation-pre-work Tara mode -- really stresses him.

3 of 4 of tasks listed above are not going to be completed in few days. They truly were summer projects. I could list excuses, mainly didn't want to do them earlier. I want them done, but it is not something I felt like doing post-work-beginning vacation. I truly need to veg, especially as I'd packed up my previous office AND I stored those boxes in part of garage. 

Garage - 1 reason I didn't do much (other than work boxes being in there) is I need Jai's help since that is typically his domain. However, Jai is not really interested in organizing anything. Once I packed van with work boxes to take on July 28, I was able to move around. I reorganized the camping supplies so they are all in 1 place (took shelf from basement which helped clean out that space)!!!! We started purging on July 27, but it is definitely an August/September project. Jai is excited about prospect of on-going fun! : ) Really he doesn't want to be forced to do anything ... we have been married 9 years, garage is mess, we need to use space differently. He's not going to do it alone ... we're doing it together.

Basement - mainly shifting some stuff (purging) & sweeping bugs & dirt - that was necessary per instructions from new bug consultant to deal with our bug problem. Plus we were having consultation with architecture & construction company to discuss renovating basement. I needed to clean & organize space. It is NOT done, there is definitely lots to do.

My office - once again during a break, I didn't want to tackle this task. It is small space, doesn't get used often, it really isn't disorganized ... except for huge box & pile of papers (paper bills or receipts mainly) that sits on desk. There was moment when I needed to find document & searching through this hot mess pile was annoying & fruitless. Frustrating! Didn't change outcome - most of it needs to be shredded at this point I suspect. Project for Fall Break! : )

Bathroom closet ... small project, attainable goal, really needs to be cleaned anyway since it is public health concern. No, not really, just Tara's public health standard. : ) Basically I took everything out and washed shelves & walls. Then I laid grip liner on shelves & rearranged everything. I got rid of few items, mainly shifted placement of items, hopefully making space more efficient & user friendly. Even though I am primary user, it is used by Jai some for Jacqueline's care, more Julia now as she becomes more independent & manages her skin & hair care. I am enjoying results - much easier to find what I need & use products I have. Example: found container of body salt scrub which I should use to exfoliate, especially legs before waxing. Probably been in closet for 2 years, all dried out, block of salt ... I added almond oil to it, now I can use it again!!!

I also organized some stuff I have in my mini "office" downstairs in living room. I had piles of file folders, but it was a mess too. I used these beautiful batik like cloth nested containers made in Ghana that I bought at RPCV (Returned Peace Corps Volunteer) conference here in Nashville in June. Cool thing is it is functional, practical, looks like decoration too. Brillant! I actually can find what I need more easily. Overall it makes me feel good, especially since I paid money for containers & supported a good cause!

Work project
I get to Amqui ES on Monday - my office is dirty. Understandably so since previous occupant packed up her stuff as I did, but she didn't clean the space (as I did not either). Since I am OCD about cleanliness, I grabbed paper towels & wipes, whatever I could find in main office (asked principals & custodians), vacuum cleaner, & I got to work on this new space! I moved every piece of furniture which was going to be necessary since I knew I would rearrange where desk, shelves, tables were anyway. I broke 2 parts of a lamp. First bulb cover shattered, then bottom collapsed. This meant I had to vacuum again!  1 vacuum cleaner "exploded" - it was old! It took a few days to clean & organize everything just right, which meant I was delayed organizing & planning for School Counseling Program. However, having your work space right is critical, especially in my job where I work with so many different people - it has to function in certain way.

Does organizing help with the anxiety? Yes, I think it does. It is some kind of order. I sleep poorly usually the few days before work starts. Physical work helps with exhaustion to aid sleep. There is some peace is completing task, especially when there is an aesthetic benefit as well. Am I crazy? Pretty much ... like all of us, just in my unique way. : )

Thursday, July 24, 2014

Visit PDOs for Jacqueline

It is time for Jacqueline to go to school. YEAH!!! : )
It really is a good thing for everyone, especially around this 2.5 year age.
Emotions run high! Tempers flare! Balance is needed in universe.

We started talking about where she would attend school back in January actually as we contemplated enrolling her sooner than Julia. Having 2nd child has really impacted all of us, but particular Jai being stay-at-home parent. We started tours in April & May as we had learned about more since Julia enrolled at Inglewood UMC's PDO.

1. Inglewood UMC - learned that director was retiring, no one hired yet.
So we got on waiting list, but didn't pay registration fee to hold spot.
2. Dalewood Baptist - much cheaper we discovered years ago so hoping this might be good fit.
Jai & Jac visited. Learned that director was retiring, no one hired yet. Trend!
We got on waiting list, but didn't pay registration fee to hold spot.
However, didn't really like look/vibe - something not right, so not too concerned.
3. Dalewood UMC - learned from parent of former PDO classmate of Julia's about this NEW place.
It's called a Creative Preschool, run by retired Pre-K MNPS teacher. Fee is slightly more, but not crazy!
We checked it out today. Really liked it. Still really close to home. Also runs from 9a-3p - SWING!
Completed registration paperwork & paid registration fee next day!

We got info about getting ready. Guess what?! Start date is way earlier than expected... in August! Basically they follow MNPS calendar which other PDOs do also, but Julia started after Labor Day. This is fantastic. We'll all start within days of each other so we'll get routine established soon.

Awesome sauce!!!! I am probably most happy for Jai. This way he can have some breaks. Hopefully will be easier to schedule appointments, consistent exercise routine, accomplish some tasks, find job. : )

Menopause ...What?!!?

Yep, that's the title. WTF is what I said!! I don't understand.

I referenced "hormonal changes" in my June 3 DietBet post. Well, I keep notes in calendar of my menstrual cycle (surprise, surprise!) & some weird (for me) happenings last few months. Unusual is better term, not weird really, just atypical since I'm regular kind of woman. Anyway I have my annual well woman checkup in July so I thought perfect opportunity to discuss this concern with my medical provider. Marty (nurse practitioner extraordinaire at MNPS Bransford clinic, love her!) says "why don't we check your hormonal levels as well as thyroid, make sure all is normal."

Well, it is NOT normal! She calls me next day (yep, results are that fast at clinic, again love them!!) & says "You are in middle of menopause." Again WTF! I don't understand. At this point, I'm a week away from next birthday, yes, I'm in 40's, but I'm not 50! I thought maybe I misheard Marty, but I looked at numbers when I received copy of lab results. Some numbers look like I've almost shut down shop!

Not sure what is next step. According to my mom's recollection of her menopausal experience (some of which I remember!) it is process, years, not months. Hopefully hot flashes will be nice since I'm frequently cold. At least I might be done before Julia hits puberty though it seems like that girl is already there!

I'll read that chapter in Taking Charge of Your Fertility. I skipped it 7 years ago when we were trying to get pregnant. No kidding that clock was ticking!. Schedule follow-up with Marty. Fun times are a-comin'! : )

Monday, July 21, 2014

July quotes from Julia

I know there are more, gosh, there are so many!
However, if I don't write them down, it's gone in a flash ... like Julia! : )
Thankfully my sister wrote 2 down & I got this 1 down before memory fails.
Ahh, the almost 44 year old brain is so tired. Gosh, I am almost 44! That is crazy!

7/9/2014
while visiting with 2 friends & telling Julia story about how she talks lots.
I remembered this one which actually happened in June - AMAZING!
So glad Susie wrote this one down - classic. : )

Backstory - I asked Julia to stop talking ... you know why.
Julia: "I really like to talk. I have lots to say!" (also said with lots of enthusiasm & volume)

7/10/2014
Lunch @ Sushi Train with friends Anne Marie & almost 6 year old son, Sam (Julia's peer since pregnancy)
Julia & Jac running around restaurant like crazy people. It was bad. I was so embarrassed.
Sam: "Is this a playground or a restaurant?"
I kid you not, he said this. Ahh, out of the mouth of babes, right????!!!!
I am over taking my children to restaurants. Hey, this will save me money too!

7/12/2014
Memphis for Jai's family reunion, at pool with few children @ reunion other than mine
Really sweet girl close to Julia's age whom she'd played with endlessly night before & during morning tour.
However, I guess Julia had reached her limit.
Julia: (in whisper at side of pool where I am) "I am pissed off @ ...."
Really! What happened?
Nothing probably other than someone else talking to her as much as Julia talks to everyone else.

Like I already wrote, I am sure there are more, but unless they are repeated, it's gone! Until next time I remember! : )


Sunday, July 20, 2014

Summer 2014 vacation trips

Lots of driving - probably no more planes until we strike it rich!

June 6-14 Chicago - long drive, girls did fantastic, stopped in Kentucky on way up, St. Louis on way back, stayed with friends both places, good family time, went to museums, took train which was fun (also instead of driving & paying outrageous parking fees!)

June 16-28 briefly home for Julia to attend ENCORE camp - awesome sauce! didn't like driving to Robertson Academy 2x/day, but plan to network & carpool next year!

June 30-July 6 North Carolina - long drive, but girls did great. Stopped in Asheville both ways, stayed in hotel both times (different ones). Susie was wonderful to drive most of it since I had calf injury. Also to help with child care so Jai could stay home for first solo vacation in 5.5 years ( I had mine Oct. 2013 during Fall Break!)

July 11-13 Memphis - ahh, family reunion, fun times, thank goodness for short drive - it was fun, lots of yummy BBQ, good tour (too long!) ... what will happen in 2016? Where will we go?

July 18-20 camping @ Rock Island State Park (about 2 hours away from Nashville, in White county) - rained, but fun, must get better sleeping pads & fly tarp!

Jai & I talked about doing a 'driving across TN' trip in 2015 & 2016 instead of going to other places. It was exhausting to be gone so much of summer. Routine was shot, lots of eating out, not enough sleep - not really that different from other summer breaks! : )  However, there are 96 counties in TN, lots of state parks, other Wildlife Refugee areas. Looking at map as we had to troubleshoot wrong turn (good map reading skills without GPS), we realized that we have been to less than 20 of 96 counties, probably most in middle TN. Kind of get off beaten path, take some smaller highways, see more of our home state.

Re-read this post in 11 months. : )

Thursday, July 10, 2014

Thanks, Nicole Kidman!

I wish I could write that I met her or saw her like my friend did at church.
Reading this quote from billboard while driving on interstate is next best thing, right?!?!
HAHA! I'm such a comedian.

Seriously though I thought this was cool advertisement.
Important message, using your star power appropriately.

"I'm part of the story. Are you?"
- Nicole Kidman
part of NPL Foundation campaign
(NPL = Nashville Public Library)

What is the story? Giving money to support NPL? I hope so because that is needed.
What is that other quote about "great library = great city"?
NPL provides lots of wonderful services beyond traditional book lending.

  • I am very grateful for borrowing books since we no longer buy books unless for kids' birthdays. 
  • We love participating in Summer Reading Challenge - all of us. 
  • Going to local branch where they know us by name. 
  • Visiting branches for programs like Storytime at Main NPL which we have not done this summer!

I remember one year I made a donation for my nephew's birthday - thought it was a cool idea.
My brother was pissed (since I didn't give him anything else!). I guess I could have gotten him a book too.
I was young & carefree, no kids yet - still in my 20s! : )

Tuesday, July 8, 2014

Always #LikeAGirl

   

This made me cry! Go girls, teens, women! Be yourself!

Thursday, July 3, 2014

NC text quotes

Strange title I'm sure it seems to anyone unaware of this tradition we started a few years ago - not texting since that's recent, but fun quotes from road trips, usually found from driving on country roads in NC.

Yesterday we drove to beach at Emerald Isle & I starting texting them to Jai (my dad was driving!). It's random & out of context so it can be confusing. Jai's responses were probably just as funny as he tried to guess where we were. I guess he didn't know we were in car. Sometimes I remember to write down name of church, most times I do not. Anyway here goes some of them. Enjoy! : )

1. Remember to take Jesus on your vacation (Pelletier Free Will Baptist Church)
This might be 1 of my favorites. Jai guessed Cracker Barrel. HA!
I also thought "like we would leave Jesus behind in Nashville. He rides shotgun!" : )
2. We are not Dairy Queen, but we have Sundays
3. God Bless the USA (this one is from 2013, but it has to be listed)

There were only 2 quotes I found in phone, thought there were more, definitely some good ones last summer! These quotes are good times. Also calling Niki when I see crazy stuff when I'm driving. Like prostitutes or people wearing fur coats when it is 100 degrees in August. Happy Summer! : )

Addition on 8/3/14
While walking Johnders this morning, I saw this gem on sign at Eastwood Baptist Church.
7 days without God makes you weak

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

I love doing homework & other great quotes

Yep, those words were said by 5 year old daughter ... during SUMMER vacation.

At end of year, students received a bag full of various materials, including some artwork, but also workbooks & instructions to encourage students to read during summer etc.

On 6/13, while we were on vacation in Chicago, Julia was writing letters & words in her handwriting workbook. We heard her say "I love doing HW."

On 6/29, while assisting Susie with making batch of green smoothies. Julia was tasting it.
She then found me to declare "Delicious ... like sweet grass. I like green smoothie." Really - you know what grass tastes like. Sweet?!

On 7/2, while on vacation in NC, at beach, she shared about her experience with the ocean.
"The wave spanked me ... then I spanked the wave back!"

Where do these phrase gems come from? Oh, to be in the mind of a kid. : )

Monday, June 30, 2014

New job for Tara

I decided to transfer this year, at least be looking for schools near home. Even though 11 miles one way might be nothing to some, I am over it. Also with little kids, it would be nice to be closer.

I completed transfer process in March & started looking & talking with people around MNPS, especially keeping eyes open for retirements. There were a few, particularly in East Nashville area, it was amazing. Sadly I applied, but nothing panned out, jobs went to others. I even applied at schools I wasn't interested, but it was good experience. You are not desperate, but can practice your answers. : )

Actually interestingly it made me ponder what I was doing, what are my goals at year 15, where am I headed. I knew it wasn't the right fit, but questioning "what is it I want." Ironically at this interview I saw counselor leaving her interview, then she got the job, so her school was open. I still wasn't thinking about that school as it wasn't in East Nashville, but my coordinator encouraged me & I talked with counselor. I emailed principal. We met next day & I got an offer. I accepted.

During the 2014-15 school year I will be School Counselor at Amqui Elementary School.
It is about 300 fewer students than PMES and 5.8 miles away from home.
Madison is much better commute for me - straight North, no traffic.

Good deal! : )

Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Fascinating Observation

For lack of another clever title, I had an interesting conversation today. I went to a 1/2 day training, unexpected as it was intended for MS & HS counselors mainly, but I found out & went. Glad I did, great stuff about college readiness & preparation & it really is a Pre-K-12 mindset. Hopefully this speaker will be brought back for ES counselors soon.

I sat with some colleagues whom I know mainly from my MS days which is where both individuals have worked most of career as counselors. One person I know better asked about my children, talking about how big they've gotten, in school now, wow, already, where does she go to school ... you know they drill, we catch up a bit. My children are young, theirs are not, they each have 1 grown child in college. They both are not much older than me, yet are less than 5-10 years of being eligible for retirement (30 years of service) & I am only 1/2 way. Example, person said in 7 years can retire at age 52 ... that means I am only 2 years or so younger. WOW! Such different places you know.

Anyway, I asked where their children attended school. Keep in mind that they have worked these 20+ years for MNPS as teacher & counselor. 1 person said some private school for K-8, then DA for HS. Other person said USN for K-12. Conversation already included discussion about college fees & how they weren't going anywhere during summer because Belmont was getting all their money & they get no financial aid from completing FASA because they appear to make too much money. Luckily that will NOT be our situation since we have 1 income. : )

OK - so this is interesting to me. This is not first time I have encountered this scenario. You work for MNPS, but your children attend private school. 15 years ago MNPS was a different place ... actually that is around the time I started working for MNPS. Both individuals are African-American women - not sure if that makes a difference, just interesting, also both children are female. Actually they are friends - I asked if they knew each other at Belmont. Not sure if moms were friends & kids met or whatever, but they've all known each other a long time. Regardless interesting stuff. Person 1 whose child graduated from DA said that her child attended a "public" college (MTSU, TSU, UT),  but couldn't handle it so had to go to private.

Not sure what that means, but again interesting stuff. Oh, best part, when discussing money, person 1 said her child gets no scholarships ... initially I thought because she didn't get any. NOPE! She didn't apply! No way. I applied for EVERYTHING in HS even some Delta & AKA affiliated scholarships & I didn't know anything or anyone connected to those organizations. She said she talked with her about it, but she wouldn't do it & she's a school counselor. WTF! Unacceptable. It is called, stop paying for Belmont, young person gets a job, apply for some scholarships. I know what TSU was like for graduate school & it was shockingly different from Wellesley & I was older than 18 or 22, but I finished & it was definitely cheaper.

Fascinating stuff ... Julia & Jacqueline be ready to get some money for college, no free ride from parents. : )

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Not in the mood

Nope not what adults might say to each other! : )

More Jac quotes - awesome sauce!

"I am not in the mood."
"That's enough."

Guess whom she said these 2 phrases to?
Yep, Miss Julia.

I wonder why ... yep, you guessed it.
We say them OFTEN to Julia apparently.
Ahh, the funny things kids say ... hear ... repeat : )

Friday, June 6, 2014

Diet Bet challenge

In May my friend Niki told me about this program, invited me to join this DietBet challenge she was doing for 4 weeks. $30 entry fee, goal to lose 6% of body weight, if you do, you get your money back. Great incentive & motivation. Bonus is you get % of pot if other people don't lost their 6%. Pot was $85K at that point, later it grew to over $100K. Initially I thought it would be great for Jai to do, as I really was living in denial world about my weight. I thought I'd gained a bit, but didn't realize until I decided to join with them & stepped on scale how wrong I was. I weighed as much as I did when I started Virgin Diet ONE year ago. I was SO pissed since I'd lost 18 pounds in 3 months, felt & looked great (still had another 10 or so pounds to lose).

Logistics
1. You create account, choose Diet Bet you're doing, pay entry fee
2. Receive BEGINNING email with secret word which you write on card/paper
3. 2 photos are taken & uploaded while standing on scale
photo 1: put card on floor next to scale, take photo of number on scale (aerial photo)
photo 2: distance photo showing you on scale
3. Upload photos as directed on website, wait for review process for approval
4. Lose weight, you can post info on website, use social media, encourage others, see your progress
5. Receive ENDING email with secret word which you write on card/paper
6. 2 photos are taken & uploaded while standing on scale (same process as before really)
photo 1: put card on floor next to scale, take photo of number on scale (aerial photo)
photo 2: distance photo showing you on scale
7. Upload photos as directed on website, wait for review process for approval
8. Hopefully you're a WINNER!!!!!!!

If you win, you get money deposited into your account. It can be used for future DietBet challenges or processed for PayPal account reimbursement. Jai & I both said from beginning "I just want to get my $30 back!!" : )

May 5-June 2 was basically the 4 weeks for first challenge I did. I lost 1-2 pounds each week, loving this process, especially posting on Twitter or sending "high 5's" to Jai & Niki. I started following Virgin Diet in week 2 to give me more structure. I also starting exercising consistently, returned to my routine at Y each morning before work. I hit a bump 1 week before END & gained 2 pounds which freaked me out (think it was hormonal) as I only had to lose 0.5 to win. I'm a fierce competitor - to be close & lose would really annoy me. I cracked down, limiting carbs, no chips or crackers for snack, & I did it. Got my final weight photos done & approved on Monday, June 2 (last day of work for teachers, also day I got new job) then celebrated on Tuesday, June 3 lunch at Calypso Cafe with PMES colleagues.I got rice with salad & fruit tea with meal (I rarely do that!). YAY!

I lost 7 pounds which is amazing. I felt great & wanted to continue that trend & momentum.
Overall goal for summer is to lose another 10 pounds.
Sadly Jai nor Niki met their % goal, but they lost weight - I got some of their money.

Fast forward to Aug. 3 when I'm really writing this post. : )
I had told Susie about this process & she decided to participate so we joined 1 together for June 6-July 3.
Luckily entry fee was $15 & I used part of my winnings. Unfortunately I was on vacation first part & then I don't know what happened when we returned to Nashville, but I didn't lose weight, actually I gained it. Later I discovered I'm experiencing some hormonal changes that I believe negatively impacted weight. Also we were eating out more (so typical in summer, especially while traveling) though exercising more I thought. Anyway, neither of us met % goal. : (

I have some money in account so not sure if I'll do another challenge or convert to PayPal, but I got "back on horse" & following healthy eating behavior & going to Y each morning (walking Johnders every morning too until I returned to work last week). I am back to my winning weight from June 2, shorts fit again (I don't want to go to Goodwill for me again until I lose overall goal of 25 pounds!), feel better. Limiting snacks helps - I have been eating fresh local fruit mostly instead of chips & crackers, trying to get gluten free as much as possible, but not being fanatic (no wheat!). I'm not following Virgin Diet - I need eggs & tofu sometimes, but not daily. No peanuts & corn are standard for me anyway. Limiting sweets always helps. I made applesauce cake when some friends came over last weekend & it was so strange. Delicious, but I hadn't baked in 3 months.

New goal - lose 2 pounds each month
Lower expectation so it's attainable & safe. That means I'll get to 24 pounds in year or sooner maybe which is great. I want us to be at "fighting" weight before 10 year wedding anniversary trip in June 2015. : )





Tuesday, June 3, 2014

1 Lawn Mower ... Taken ... Good news!

Cleaning out garage ... seems to be an annual summer activity, especially when I'm packing up my office & I need storage space for 7 weeks. So I find QUITE a few items that need to be gone, either taken to drop-off center off Trinity Lane or put on the street. I loaded up the van yesterday with some chemical liquids & other items, including full container of glass bottles, for Jai to take this morning.

Well, we also have a few lawn mowers, 1 that barely works Jai says & needs repair. The other does NOT work. So this morning on way to Y, struggling, I pushed it to the curb in front of our house. I figured someone who likes to fix machines might grab it at some point today. Hoping!

As I'm leaving for work & pull out of the driveway later this morning, a police car is driving by & motions for me to stop & asks if the lawn mower is mine. I say yes. Officer inquires if I meant to leave it there to which I reply "yes, it's no good, doesn't work." Officer: "Oh, it's kaput. Are you hoping someone will take it?" "Yes" I say. Officer says "maybe you should put a sign on it." I say "great idea, I'll call my husband. Thanks!"

I drive off as I am now even later for work, thank goodness it is a work day & I'll stay late again today to finish everything on my TO DO list. I call Jai & leave long voicemail & tell him the story. I finish with "it looks like rain, don't worry about a note." When I get home after putting away my stuff, I go to bathroom. Julia rushes in (there is NO privacy in this house!). With excitement, she says "guess what?! Did you see the lawn mower?" I said "no, actually, I didn't notice when I got home." Julia says "it's gone. I wrote a note that said 'Please take' and someone did:" She was SO excited, smiling ear to ear!

So great! On so many levels. My girl can write a note that helps us get rid of stuff. You know I love it! : )

Way to Go, Seattle!

This morning at Y while exercising I saw on TV news crawler that Seattle's City Council approved a phased-in $15 minimum wage which is highest in the nation. I don't know any more details, not sure how long the phase-in process is, but that is good news. I suspect the cost of living is higher in Seattle, but people need a chance at a living wage. I hope other cities/states follow this lead.

Sunday, June 1, 2014

Toddler Tantrums & Sleep Challenges

I know we wrote a post similar to this title 3 years ago! Ugh! I hate this stage.
Tears, screams, meltdowns ... oh my, I feel like having a tantrum myself sometimes (and have!).
It also seems worse than with Julia, but hindsight is imperfect & subjective.
Partially due to Jacqueline having a role model who still has her moments - too many in my opinion.

I remember talking with some college friends at reunion 2 years ago about behavior issues.
"What is wrong with my child?"
We have children with similar age difference. I thought some behavior was related to Jacqueline's arrival 5 months prior & adjustment issues. As we discussed our concerns, I learned that one friend's 2nd child who is Julia's age, was doing similar behavior as had her older child (3 years older). I felt some relief that we weren't alone, basically normal development. I also felt dread as I realized that it would happen again in 2-3 years with Jac. Oh, despair! Enjoy those sweet baby moments because the toddler train of hell will roll along soon enough.  Fast forward to Destination fun times - we are already here! : )

Good news is it doesn't last forever, just is another developmental stage that has positives & negatives.

The sleep issue is another beast, definitely 1 created by circumstances of 2nd child & survival. Jacqueline slept in our bed & room WAY longer than Julia did. She rarely slept through night, while breastfeeding, even once she moved to girls' room, nor after weaning at 20 months old. She sleeps less than Julia which is sad for many reasons. Jacqueline seems like Jai's child for sure whereas Julia is a sleeper like me. We dealt with it, overall still getting more sleep than when either girls were newborns - it's all relative!

Then Jac climbed out of crib a year ago & it's been on. For safety reasons she has toddler bed now. She starts out there at bedtime, but when she wakes up at 1-2am, she walks into our room & climbs into our bed. We had a "child-proof" gadget on door knob - she cried, then knocked on door once she learned how to do that. Again for survival purposes, wanting to keep Julia asleep, especially once she started attending school every day, we acquiesced to keep the peace. We have tried "tough love" sleep training at points, but then someone gets sick & we fall back into bad habit. Also Jacqueline is stubborn & loud & we're tired. Vicious cycle.

Hopefully this sentence applies here also - "Good news is it doesn't last forever, just is another developmental stage that has positives & negatives." I really hope so because I want her out of my bed! Actually I really want to sleep alone again. I miss my alone time! The commute to work & daily shower is not enough. : )

Wednesday, May 21, 2014

Farmers Market is open!!!

Yay! So happy tis the season for fresh local vegetables. Originally slated to open last Wed. & there were vendors there, but it rained so Grand Opening changed to today. It was awesome! New location at Shelby Park is great. Lots more room, great shady trees as well as wide open space + playground!!!!!! There were only a few food trucks (ice cream, bagels) so we need more options - it would be nice to eat dinner there. However, it was wonderful to be outside, see some "old" friends we rarely see from Nov.-April, pick up some veggies & fruit, watch kids climb up/down slide. Yay again! : )

Sunday, May 18, 2014

Potty Training to Potty Mouth

With a 2.25 year old & almost 5.5 year old, these are the milestones we are experiencing in our household.
Warning: post contains topics that many parents are used to discussing with benign frequency that non-parents might not find as nonchalant, mundane or remotely interesting. Some parents don't either! : )

I don't know if we're any earlier, definitely not later, with potty training with child #2. She has been talking about bathroom activities for months now; Jacqueline seems very interested which is part of the deal. We have friends/acquaintances with similar age, both genders, with potty trained children. However, consistency & practice is a big part of success. She has peed & pooped a few times in potty chair, toilet with surprise, & of course on the floor. Lately we have instituted the commando routine - saves steps, time, diapers. Jacqueline walks around inside & outside (back of house) wearing only a shirt. It's quite funny to see.
We all get SUPER excited, hoping it will continue to happen more frequently. PLEASE!

I guess what comes out, must have a beginning. Some of you might have seen Jai's FB post recently about Julia's dropping of the "F bomb." Yep, it finally happened. Personally I am glad it wasn't on my watch. If you know me, you know I enjoy that word. Until recently I could still say it if I only was around Jacqueline. Now I must confine it to my car when I am alone; occasionally if I am out with a friend & no children are around, it is an option. I didn't witness it, only heard Jai's description. He said once she used it incorrectly (or out of context). The other time she used it correctly in reference to her sister. "You little f ... " Yikes! The horror! Seriously not cool.

However, the comments/responses on FB were kind of funnier. I definitely don't want her to use that language until she is an adult. : ) Jai talked with her & explained that it is not appropriate, but it sounds like he didn't give it too much attention. It is a great opportunity to talk about behavior expectations & also what happens at home versus other places. We don't like her to use the words "stupid" or "hate." Other families might not have an issue with those words. We have conversations with her about body parts, food, skin color - what she hears, sees, thinks.

No doubt some of it is impacted by school attendance, but we saw similar kind of issues when she started going to Parent Day Out 2 days a week. Will she say it again? Probably. Lately both of the girls' favorite word/phrase is "darn it" ... do you know why? Jai & I say it now because we cannot say the other phrase. Do I like it? Not really, but it is dang funny to hear a 2 year old say it.

Wednesday, April 16, 2014

EW Bullseye

I love EW ... Entertainment Weekly. Jai got me a subscription soon after we got married, probably for my birthday, so I've been getting it for 8 years now probably.

I love reading most of it, especially since having children, as it is something quick to look at & pick up later & not be lost & confused ... like I am experiencing while reading my current books.

Anyway, I like the Star News best - wedding, babies, court issues, deaths even.
I am a closet star stalker. : )
I also like TV info, movie reviews, books that are popular.
1 favorite is back page ... Bullseye which is sharp sarcasm usually.

April 4 issue was spot on.
#OMGood Wife
So sad & devastated like everyone about Will Gardner's death.
Also sad that yummy Josh Charles is no longer being on show. JC, what is your next gig?

Then this was next best.
Next to photo of Lena Dunham from "Girls"
"Sorry Hannah, but at a time when lead characters are getting killed off their shows in the middle of the season, the possibility of unexpected adventure in Iowa does not a cliff-hanger make."
Uh, yeah, not even close to a cliff hanger!

Another favorite from 4/4/14 issue!
Next to photo of KB in his "Footloose" suit
"Ageless Kevin Bacon's dance performance on The Tonight Show celebrates the 30th anniversary of Footloose his deal with the devil."
 I actually saw this clip! Hilarious!


Friday, April 11, 2014

Texting 101

You know we don't text or didn't until recently. I don't know exactly why I changed my mind. Paranoid, impersonal, awkward social skills - all issues with texting. Too many police procedurals! Not sure why I think my messages are that interesting to be subpoenaed. I have email & a blog. I write a lot more in both of those mediums. Convenience factor alone makes texting awesome. Such fast & immediate communication.

Spring break trip to Atlanta on March 21 is when I activated the service - it was perfect timing.
Best decision I ever made!

QUITE a few people didn't understand what they were seeing when first text from me appeared! : )
"I choked on my lunch!"
"I almost fell down."
"I had to sit down!"
"WTF"

OK - the numbers!
I looked at our account today, wasn't looking for info about texts,but it was right there.
Crazy numbers!

Jai = 250 texts
Susie = 200 texts
TARA = 450 texts

WHAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Again BEST decision I ever made!

Wednesday, April 9, 2014

True Detective - 8 Episodes in 1 week

We did it. .We saw all 8 episodes in less than 7 days. Maybe it doesn't seem so hard for you single people or couples without kids, but with 2 small children, working all week, it is not an easy task.

Actually we didn't watch any episodes 2-3 days during week for various reasons so it was a race to get them watched by Sunday's deadline. Also these are HBO episodes so a full 55-59 minutes long, no 40 minutes like network TV.  We watched THREE on Saturday evening! THREE! That is like a VERY LONG movie. Thank goodness for PNO!! : )

OMG! So intense! I don't understand people going into dark, creepy places WITHOUT back up.
Come on! You know that is not smart. No way! No way! Not going to do it! I had to get up & leave the room a few times, I couldn't stand the fear. : )

Matthew Mc. & Woody H - y'all are some amazing actors. Good stuff!

Tuesday, April 8, 2014

No monkey, just books.

Last year I would tell people that Jacqueline wasn't as interested in books as Julia had been at the same age. Well, chalk that up to a flawed memory. Jacqueline wasn't interested yet...

I just asked "Jacqueline, where are you?"
From across the house she says "I'm reading my book."

Despite her "baby" and stuffed monkey the item she brings into her parents' bed is a stack of books. 1am or 2am I hear her pitter patter into my room, around to my side of the bed, she waits, tosses her books on the bed and then climbs in. Julia never did that.

Monday, April 7, 2014

Jacqueline quotes begin

Oh some good times are coming! These are priceless.

Over past 2 weeks (3/30-14-4/5/14)
"My new toothbrush" (even though it's not really new like yesterday, more like new a few weeks ago!) - heard 10,000 times a day
"my flip flops" (now that the weather is nice, she can wear them & likes letting others know!)
"that is mine" (for everything!)
"That is MY blanket. Not yours, mine!"

These are heard/said often! OMG!
She understands possessive pronouns! : )

3/31/14
"5 minutes, Julia" while pointing at clock in morning - first time I heard it.
Jai said it has been said before.
Wonder where she's heard that phrase before?! : )

4/1/14
"Stop, Julia. Stop yelling!"
This is said while we are listening to Kelly Clarkson or "Frozen" songs in van every weekend.
Julia really does shout as she sings with gusto!

Storytelling on Skype with Susie
I don't know if Jai got video, lots of gesticulating & articulating.
There is little understanding on my part or Jai's or Susie's! : )
It was HILARIOUS! This girl is a character.

Today's favorite
"No, ma'am. 5 minutes."
Apparently we say that a lot.
Maybe we should start saying 4 or 6 minutes! : )

Monday, March 31, 2014

True Detective

Free watchathon on Comcast - we're going to watch all 8 episodes this week! : )

Last line in episode 1
Matthew McC's character
"Well, start by asking the right f*&$ing questions."
Love it!

The flashback scenes are some yummy MM - not a fan of his character's "current" look.
Suggestion, MM. Please shave AND cut the hair! You are so pretty otherwise.

Sunday, March 30, 2014

SB 2014 Staycation

This year was filled with lots of home activities, some 2-4 hours driving excursions, no flights.
We went to Main NPL 4x (twice with me, twice with Jai). We saw "Sky Bear" puppet show.
We went to Zoo 2x - once it was packed, one time it was afternoon, overcast, nicely not crowded.

We went to Sewanee for lunch, then Atlanta for quick overnight to see cousin Grace.
We ate at the yummy locally sourced Yeah Burger!
Girls & I drove to Smith County & visited a friend I hadn't seen in a year.

Jai & I both got massages.
I had a pedicure with a girlfriend as well as lunch at a new place with a Groupon.
Brunch with local Moms Club.

Cheaper than 4 tickets to Arizona like last year, less stressful.
One big bummer was the crappy weather. Chilly & rainy! It snowed!

Good times overall! Looking forward to Summer Break & lots of pool time. : )

Friday, March 28, 2014

Zoovie Nights in 2014

If you don't know about this event, it is awesome, ESPECIALLY if  you are a zoo member.
It is FREE as part of your membership. Super BONUS!
Yes, we've seen 2 of the 4 movies, Julia actually has seen "Croods" also, but it doesn't matter.
The other activities are SO worth it plus you can bring in picnic dinner and/or snacks.  Overall FUN!
Downside is Friday evening as we tend to be tired, but it's not every Friday so suck it up, Tara!

I copied & pasted this info below straight from Zoo's event page. Kind of proud of myself. : )

page header

Join us for a fun family night under the stars!
Zoovie Nights include games, inflatables, music, and after hour access to the carousel! When the sun goes down the evening’s feature film will play on a large inflatable screen, so pack a blanket and head to the Zoo! Zoovie night is included with Zoo admission (on day of event), $5 after 6 p.m. and free for members.
Movies:
April 25: The Croods
May 16: Madagascar 2
June 27: Epic
Sept. 12: Monsters, Inc.
Timeline:
6 p.m. - Sunset
  • Inflatables, DJ and games on Festival Field
  • Face painting and concessions on Festival Field (additional fees apply)
  • Carousel open (additional fees apply)
Sunset
  • Movie time!
In the case of inclement weather, please check the Zoo's Facebook page (www.facebook.com/nashvillezoo) for up-to-date information. Weather-influenced cancellations will be made by or before 4:30 p.m. on date of the event.
**Zoo animal trails will close at 6 p.m. and guests must stay in Festival Field area after Zoo closing time.

Leave me alone Julia

Yep, those words were said by Jacqueline & clearly understood by me, which honestly is a challenge for me. Both Jai & Julia are good at deciphering what Jac says, way better than me.
I suspect that future blog posts will have more funny comments by someone other than Julia! : )
Jacqueline is a live wire, much more than Julia which is not what we expected.

Of course Jac's statement followed Julia saying almost same thing to her as they played on couch.: )

Soon after we had another confrontation with words between mom & sisters.
Julia was using crayons on new Hello Kitty lunch box my sister sent to ME.
Yeah, like that's going to happen! My sister's note specified it, but I doubt it will last.
I told Julia to stop doing that with crayons - "paper only."
Of course she didn't stop - annoyed by this independent phase of both girls yet I know it is healthy part of their development, I don't like "no."

Jacqueline chimes in & semi repeats my instructions to Julia - "stop writing."
Tara: "Listen to her" I say to Julia.
Jac: "Listen to me."

HILARIOUS!!!!!!

Thursday, March 27, 2014

Cornerstone Indoor Playground

Awesome Sauce! This place is fantastic!

Here's a link to more info about this awesome place that is FREE!
http://www.nashvillefunforfamilies.com/cornerstone-indoor-playground/

We went for first time this morning. We met another friend & her son & saw a bunch of other neighborhood folks from local Moms Club. FUN!!!


They're open 10:30a-3pm on M-F (except W because they clean the playground). I mentioned it is FREE! Going on Thursday is good idea since it's the cleanest it will be, but the fact that it's shut down for a cleaning day & still free is AMAZING! Also so close to us, super convenient.


I'd heard about it last year when I joined the Moms Club, but never went for various reasons, mainly because I didn't think Jacqueline was ready, then Julia started school & I forgot about it. There's an area for crawlers or new walkers that would have totally worked. It's all contained so feels more safe than other play gym places like Jungle Gym at zoo. It is perfect for hot, rainy, cold days or just need a quick place to burn off some energy. 

Jac is wiped out, asleep. I hoped Julia would do the same ... nope, coloring, singing, making usual amount of noise which is annoying. I bribed her with promise of treat if she'd go in guest room & leave me alone for an hour. 


UGH! I love breaks, but I'll be ready to go back to work on Monday. : ) Jai will be too as he totally gets thrown off routine when I'm home. Forgets to clean, cook, thinks since another adult is around that I'll just do it. I do some, but routine is good for everyone so keep to it I say. I still make breakfast smoothie & toast every morning M-F regardless of breaks.


Totally on a tangent, but I'm going to finish my thought. I cleaned the house thoroughly on Monday - couldn't stand it! I still need to clean blinds. I also cooked dinner last night & a few times last week. He's so funny, doesn't like confinements, rules, structure if he doesn't decide, doesn't get hungry like 3 females in house. We're adults - come on!


Anyway, Jai was supposed to come with us as I had dentist appointment & I would meet them there. But he misplaced his wallet, long story, so I came home & we were late to meet friend. I really wanted him to know where it is & hope he'll bring Jac once a week as it'd be a win-win for both of them. I think she'd take longer naps if he ran her around more too. : )


End note - this place is a total winner. Go as soon as you can!


Wednesday, March 26, 2014

Regal Summer Movie Express


nashville fun for families regal summer movie express

Mark your calendar & get ready for some awesome summer FUN!

Regal Summer Movie Express starts soon.  There are 2 movie choices each week on Tuesday and Wednesday morning for $1!  This is a favorite activity to do with our kids in the summer. After hot days at the pool, park, playground, time in a cool movie theater is a welcome reprieve.

Some suggestions:
  • Go Early! Daycares, camps & preschools attend these movies too. Theaters fill quickly. Be there by 9:45AM.
  • Concessions are open; everything is standard concession price. I suggest packing a small snack.
  • It is usually LOUD. Kids outnumber adults; most are not quiet. We, like lots of parents, have brought a young child that we would not bring to a movie usually.  Expect lots of bored toddler behavior. Whew last summer with Jacqueline was an up & down occasion, luckily I went with Jai or another adult friend so they watched Julia. Hopefully she'll sit still longer this summer.
We always have a great time! It is a deal to entertain your kids for $1, worth inconvenience!

You can participate in Regal’s Summer Movie Express at these locations:

June 3  is the start date for all these theaters.  Here is a complete list. So excited!

WeekTitleRatingStart Time
1Hotel TransylvaniaPG10am
1The Smurfs 2PG10am
2Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2PG10am
2The Pirates: Band of MisfitsPG10am
3Arthur ChristmasPG10am
3Despicable Me 2PG10am
4LegoPG10am
4Free BirdsPG10am
5Adventures of TinTinPG10am
5Rise of the GuardiansPG10am
6Kung Fu Panda 2PG10am
6Madagascar 3PG10am
7The CroodsPG10am
7EpicPG10am
8TurboPG10am
8Walking with DinosaursPG10am
9Mr. Peabody & ShermanPG10am
9Rio 2PG10am