A lot of people, well probably most people I know, think someone that is a dietitian or a dietitic technician work in the kitchen and make food. I think that is why people don't understand how drained I can feel at the end of the day.
I'm not sure if it is because the holidays are coming up but a lot of my patients have been sadder than usual lately. Today for the 2nd time in a week a grown man was crying in front of me. For some reason seeing a man cry is harder for me than seeing a baby cry. I think it's because men don't cry, so for him to be that overwhelmed he must be having some strong feelings.
Lately it seems to be that my job is more of a counselor than a nutrition expert. People will talk food with me for 5 minutes and then starting talking about their family dynamics, loved ones they have lost, how close they came to dying or how close they are too dying. They tell me how much they love their grandkids and are hoping to see this or that event. Today this man told me he was glad that the flight for life came so his grandbabies wouldn't watch him die. What do you say to a man like that?
The most amazing part to me is that 9 times out of 10 these patients are crying but telling the story with great humor. Crying with these genuine smiles on their faces. It makes the petty jealousies and feuds between my co-workers that much more obscene to me when one floor above us people are fighting to learn how to walk, talk or even swallow. Those are real problems to me. We are all in good health, have supportive family members and friends. We have jobs and a warm place to sleep. We have cars and food. We can choice what stores we buy this food at. We have a coat and hats and gloves and boots. We can walk and swallow thin liquids.
Sure I get involved in this mini dramas like everyone else, but things are changing for me. I want to be the kind of person that goes to bed thinking about what a great life I have instead of the little things that got me down today. Then when something really bad does happen I hope that I will be able to face it with courage, good humor and hope like the many special people that have crossed my life because of my job at the 'dert. I hope that everyday I will be able to go home and really be with Abby and not just in the same room. This is my new's year resolution to be more positive and appreciate what I do have.
Monday, November 21, 2011
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Today's Inspiration
Every day at work we have a "rally", an informal meeting where our boss gives us updates and fields questions. The rally ends with a quote. One of my co-worker's brought this quote and I read every morning now.
"Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma - which is living with the results of outer people's thinking. Don't let the noise of others' opinions drown out your inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary"
-Steve Jobs
"Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma - which is living with the results of outer people's thinking. Don't let the noise of others' opinions drown out your inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary"
-Steve Jobs
Pumpkins
I just can't get myself to toss our jack-o-lanterns. Abby had so much carving and looking at the pumpkins. She's trying so hard to say pumpkin but it does not sound even close. Look at this cute girl in action:
Trying to help Daddy carve.
Scooping out about 2 seeds a try.
The end products.
Putting the candles in, taking the candles out, repeat x 50.
Our Halloween sweetie.
The end products.
Putting the candles in, taking the candles out, repeat x 50.
Our Halloween sweetie.
Monday, November 7, 2011
Halloween
No, she didn't "get it". But boy did she have fun. For trick or treat we went to Mukwonago to trick or treat with the cousins and see Uncle Jay home on leave. The boys all had great costumes - a baby skunk, a ninja, spiderman (of course), Scobby and Shaggy. Abby would only allow us to put her in the piglet costume. Of we went into the blustery October weather, we made it half way around the block before the rain started. Once in awhile Abby would chase after Kayden and go to one of the houses. I think she made it up to 4 houses and she got 9 pieces of candy, of which she was able to eat one. Mostly she enjoyed holding Grandma's umbrella.
My favorite moments:
-The first house Kristian was running to the neighbor, fell face first and was still shouting trick or treat as he lay on her lawn.
-Kayden showing his muscles to black spiderman (he's apparantly a bad guy)
-Shaggy's crazy wig.
-The cobra kai like label on Aaron's ninja costume.
-Abby just running around the neighborhood with no agenda or direction.
-Kayden teaching Abby all about spider man and black spiderman (see photo below)
The saturday before Halloween Tricia took us to the zoo. We didn't dress up Abby because she still hated costumes but we enjoyed all the other kids costumes. Abby loved the train and the loin cubs. She cried so hard when we had to get off and couldn't go back on the train.
It was a great Halloween.
My favorite moments:
-The first house Kristian was running to the neighbor, fell face first and was still shouting trick or treat as he lay on her lawn.
-Kayden showing his muscles to black spiderman (he's apparantly a bad guy)
-Shaggy's crazy wig.
-The cobra kai like label on Aaron's ninja costume.
-Abby just running around the neighborhood with no agenda or direction.
-Kayden teaching Abby all about spider man and black spiderman (see photo below)
The saturday before Halloween Tricia took us to the zoo. We didn't dress up Abby because she still hated costumes but we enjoyed all the other kids costumes. Abby loved the train and the loin cubs. She cried so hard when we had to get off and couldn't go back on the train.
It was a great Halloween.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Better
One of the reasons I get stressed out so easily is I'm the kind of person that is always thinking about what I could have done better. Today with the time change we were able to eat breakfast and get ready go to church. I made breakfast last night to make things easier for us - pumpkin cranberry muffins and a veggie breakfast strata (I'll be posting the recipes on cheap thoughts soon). We got to church almost on time. Abby was kind of wild so we took her to the nursery. She didn't cry the whole time, just played by herself happily.
Next we went to the park. The wind had really kicked up since we went to church. We didn't have a coat for Abby because I thought it was in my car bu we had a thin hoodie. All the other kids had winter coats. Abby was in heaven running around, sliding, swinging and even petting a friendly dog. Instead of completely savoring the smiles and laughter I kept looking for one other kid not properly dressed. We should have been better prepared.
Then comes the saga of lunch. We haven't made it to church on time since summer so we usually eat late breakfast and Tim and I aren't hungry until dinner. On and on we went figuring out what to do, sticking to the budget is so hard. But we picked up two things from PNS and were able to stay on track. But in my head "I should have better planned Sunday's meals and we didn't have a vegetable at lunch". Don't get me wrong I don't always have vegetables at lunch, usually I don't but I've been making a big effort lately so that adds to my stressors.
Now I finished making lasagna for dinner tonight and am making some meals for the week and wondering why I didn't plan more easy dishes.
Dear
Next we went to the park. The wind had really kicked up since we went to church. We didn't have a coat for Abby because I thought it was in my car bu we had a thin hoodie. All the other kids had winter coats. Abby was in heaven running around, sliding, swinging and even petting a friendly dog. Instead of completely savoring the smiles and laughter I kept looking for one other kid not properly dressed. We should have been better prepared.
Then comes the saga of lunch. We haven't made it to church on time since summer so we usually eat late breakfast and Tim and I aren't hungry until dinner. On and on we went figuring out what to do, sticking to the budget is so hard. But we picked up two things from PNS and were able to stay on track. But in my head "I should have better planned Sunday's meals and we didn't have a vegetable at lunch". Don't get me wrong I don't always have vegetables at lunch, usually I don't but I've been making a big effort lately so that adds to my stressors.
Now I finished making lasagna for dinner tonight and am making some meals for the week and wondering why I didn't plan more easy dishes.
Dear
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Cheap thoughts
I made a decision a few years after college in my first “career” that I needed a change. I dropped out of law school and left my job at a non-profit agency to waitress at Baker’s Square while getting an associate’s degree in dietitics. Does that sound like the act of a lunatic?? Luckily for me no one in my family ever questioned me or made me feel bad about these decisions.
I always knew I wanted to be a mom and I knew I would stay at home and bake brownies until they went to first grade. But now here I sit working full time for $6 less an hour than my husband that works a factory job. I would not change these decisions because without them I would not have my husband or our sweet little girl but I do want more.
I’m in the process of cutting my working hours to spent more time home. I have taken out dozens of books from the library on budgeting and cooking on a tight budget. H0wever, I couldn’t find any blogs on this subject so with the encouragement of a new friend I'm branching out and starting a new blog. Come visit me at http://cheapthoughtsbyjgrutzie.wordpress.com/ I look forward to sharing my thoughts and recipes with you, and getting your ideas in return. Now let’s pinch some pennies and make some delicious meals.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
So proud
We took Abby to her second Brewer game. She was into it a lot more this but mostly enjoyed coloring. She clapped and danced and when the Marlins got a good head she said "Ohh" and put her hands on her head in disgrace. We shared some ice cream and she charmed the women all around us. We only made it 4 1/2 innings but what a great night with my two favorite people.
Sunday, September 11, 2011
10 years ago today
Dear Abby:
Today at book club Peggy started talking about how 9/11 is a special day and she felt like there was something we should do to remember and honor. All I could think of was to write you my story. We can share it every year and think about brave people like Uncle Jay that help keep us save.
10 years ago today I was working for Lutheran Social Services Refugee Resettlement Program. I woke up that morning in a hurry like every morning and didn't watch the news or turn on the radio. I hopped in the car and started driving down Forest Home to work. I had 94.5 WKTI on the radio and after a few moments wondered why there was no music, just Reitman and Miller talking. Something had happened in New York City with a plane or a bomb. I couldn't quite get what they were saying. Then all of a sudden they said "the other tower has been hit the other tower has been hit". I literally stopped driving my car in the middle of 27th Street. All the other cars on the street had stopped t0o. I was dumbfounded and confused and nervous. Ironically that day we were supposed to be hosting a seminar on working with clients with post traumatic stress disorder. It was cancelled and we spent the whole day fielding calls from families and church sponsors wondering what would happen to the 50+ refugees we were to welcome in the next month.
In the months to come the United States government closed our borders to all refugees and asylum seekers and foreign travelers. Many flights were rerouted to Canada or never left Europe. We had a lot of work ahead of us trying to find out where our clients were. It was an emotional time for our nation. There had not been a bombing from out side forces since World War II. For me at that time it was emotional for different reasons, I felt so sorry for people that had been lost. A college friend worked near the towers and looking was safe. But also we had the tough job of trying to offer comfort to people that had left such war torn countries as Somolia, Burma, and Liberia. We didn't know where there families were and when/if they would ever come.
The first clients I had to visit that day were two men from Burma (Myanamar). They had arrived a few days before and spoke few words of English. Their tv was on and the towers falling and on fire was shown over and over again. I wondered what they must be thinking not understanding what the news broadcasters were saying. The interpreter tried to explain to them the best we could what had happened.
This year has been especially emotional for me because your Uncle Jay will be returning to Afghanistan in December. He is with a great group of guys and they all look out for each other but it scares me anyway. I hope that you don't experience anything like 9/11 in your life time. Each year we will remember, we will thank God that we live somewhere that allows everyone their own opinion without violent consequences. We will thank God that we live in a country that was hit hard but continues to remember that people outside our borders still need help. We will ask God to bless our troops and keep them safe, and that world leaders make good decisions.
I feel fortunate to have had that job at LSS and had a taste of the world. I will never forget that day and how it affected the global community. We will always remember.
Today at book club Peggy started talking about how 9/11 is a special day and she felt like there was something we should do to remember and honor. All I could think of was to write you my story. We can share it every year and think about brave people like Uncle Jay that help keep us save.
10 years ago today I was working for Lutheran Social Services Refugee Resettlement Program. I woke up that morning in a hurry like every morning and didn't watch the news or turn on the radio. I hopped in the car and started driving down Forest Home to work. I had 94.5 WKTI on the radio and after a few moments wondered why there was no music, just Reitman and Miller talking. Something had happened in New York City with a plane or a bomb. I couldn't quite get what they were saying. Then all of a sudden they said "the other tower has been hit the other tower has been hit". I literally stopped driving my car in the middle of 27th Street. All the other cars on the street had stopped t0o. I was dumbfounded and confused and nervous. Ironically that day we were supposed to be hosting a seminar on working with clients with post traumatic stress disorder. It was cancelled and we spent the whole day fielding calls from families and church sponsors wondering what would happen to the 50+ refugees we were to welcome in the next month.
In the months to come the United States government closed our borders to all refugees and asylum seekers and foreign travelers. Many flights were rerouted to Canada or never left Europe. We had a lot of work ahead of us trying to find out where our clients were. It was an emotional time for our nation. There had not been a bombing from out side forces since World War II. For me at that time it was emotional for different reasons, I felt so sorry for people that had been lost. A college friend worked near the towers and looking was safe. But also we had the tough job of trying to offer comfort to people that had left such war torn countries as Somolia, Burma, and Liberia. We didn't know where there families were and when/if they would ever come.
The first clients I had to visit that day were two men from Burma (Myanamar). They had arrived a few days before and spoke few words of English. Their tv was on and the towers falling and on fire was shown over and over again. I wondered what they must be thinking not understanding what the news broadcasters were saying. The interpreter tried to explain to them the best we could what had happened.
This year has been especially emotional for me because your Uncle Jay will be returning to Afghanistan in December. He is with a great group of guys and they all look out for each other but it scares me anyway. I hope that you don't experience anything like 9/11 in your life time. Each year we will remember, we will thank God that we live somewhere that allows everyone their own opinion without violent consequences. We will thank God that we live in a country that was hit hard but continues to remember that people outside our borders still need help. We will ask God to bless our troops and keep them safe, and that world leaders make good decisions.
I feel fortunate to have had that job at LSS and had a taste of the world. I will never forget that day and how it affected the global community. We will always remember.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
The Boys
This summer by Grutzmacher standards we have not had a lot of family time but I still have been able to squeeze in some quality moments with my boys. As someone who had always dreamed of having 2 little boys I have been blessed with 5 nephews. They all amaze me everytime I see them.
Kai below in the white shirt is at the phase where everything is boring unless he's with his friends. Sometimes he'll invite us to play baseball with him if he needs more players. He's still a good reader and very intelligent, although he insisted on telling us how he doesn't like school. But we know he's just trying to be cool. He still has a great sense of humor and it's always fun to hear the things he has to say. Can't believe when I met him he was only 2 years old.
Aaron on the right is a great big brother and sweet big cousin but can hold his own when he and Kai decide to wrestle. He loves sports and has been working hard to improve at football and baseball. Even though he's the oldest he'll still hang out with me and Tim for a few minutes until he remembers that we are boring adults.
Kayden, in the orange shirt, is one of Abby's best buddies. He loves to teach her all kinds of things from who is spiderman to where is her nose. Even though Abby can barely speak these two always seem to be having conversations. I hope that he'll always look out for Abby like he does now. This summer he has spent a lot of time asking me questions about Abby and asking me to play with him. He gave me a great tour of his big boy room, his house and his backyard last time we were there.
Kristian is protective of Abby too. When she crys or whines he always looks very concerned and I feel like I have to console him more than her. Melts my heart every time. He accidently sprayed her with water once and she cried and cried. Poor little guy looked like he would cry too. He had a long phase where he wanted to mostly be with his Oma and Mama but this summer he has played alot with me and Abby. He took a nice walk with us and kept racing us and winning and laughing at how slow we were. He is a really good listener. Everytime he would get to the corner or a driveway he would stop to make sure it was okay he was still going. He loves to tease and joke and has a great smile that can take you out of your worst mood. I'm so proud to be his Godmother. We still have our strongest bond, our love of food. He'll always come to me at Grandma's house if he needs more juice, crackers, bread or milk. I've been feeding him since he started finger food and plan to spoil him as long as he'll let me. I didn't have a recent picture of him smiling since he is a quick little mover now. Here he is playing so nice with Abby at the 4th of July.
"Hey don't forget about Baby Reiland"
Our youngest little guy is 3 months old and has already been nicknamed "smilin' Reiland". He is such a good natured little guy and cries only when he needs food, changing or sleep. I know that sounds like a lot since thats all babies do is eat and sleep but really you hardly ever her him cry. He's so sociable and will just babble to you and smile at you as long as you are willing to talk to him. Just look at the cute little face, can you ever imagine him being sad.
Kai below in the white shirt is at the phase where everything is boring unless he's with his friends. Sometimes he'll invite us to play baseball with him if he needs more players. He's still a good reader and very intelligent, although he insisted on telling us how he doesn't like school. But we know he's just trying to be cool. He still has a great sense of humor and it's always fun to hear the things he has to say. Can't believe when I met him he was only 2 years old.
Aaron on the right is a great big brother and sweet big cousin but can hold his own when he and Kai decide to wrestle. He loves sports and has been working hard to improve at football and baseball. Even though he's the oldest he'll still hang out with me and Tim for a few minutes until he remembers that we are boring adults.
Kayden, in the orange shirt, is one of Abby's best buddies. He loves to teach her all kinds of things from who is spiderman to where is her nose. Even though Abby can barely speak these two always seem to be having conversations. I hope that he'll always look out for Abby like he does now. This summer he has spent a lot of time asking me questions about Abby and asking me to play with him. He gave me a great tour of his big boy room, his house and his backyard last time we were there.
Kristian is protective of Abby too. When she crys or whines he always looks very concerned and I feel like I have to console him more than her. Melts my heart every time. He accidently sprayed her with water once and she cried and cried. Poor little guy looked like he would cry too. He had a long phase where he wanted to mostly be with his Oma and Mama but this summer he has played alot with me and Abby. He took a nice walk with us and kept racing us and winning and laughing at how slow we were. He is a really good listener. Everytime he would get to the corner or a driveway he would stop to make sure it was okay he was still going. He loves to tease and joke and has a great smile that can take you out of your worst mood. I'm so proud to be his Godmother. We still have our strongest bond, our love of food. He'll always come to me at Grandma's house if he needs more juice, crackers, bread or milk. I've been feeding him since he started finger food and plan to spoil him as long as he'll let me. I didn't have a recent picture of him smiling since he is a quick little mover now. Here he is playing so nice with Abby at the 4th of July.
"Hey don't forget about Baby Reiland"
Our youngest little guy is 3 months old and has already been nicknamed "smilin' Reiland". He is such a good natured little guy and cries only when he needs food, changing or sleep. I know that sounds like a lot since thats all babies do is eat and sleep but really you hardly ever her him cry. He's so sociable and will just babble to you and smile at you as long as you are willing to talk to him. Just look at the cute little face, can you ever imagine him being sad.
I feel so blessed to have all these fun loving, smart, crazy buddies. Five is definately better than two.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Experiment
Working full time and coming home to no husband can be physically and emotionally draining. Coming home after a second shift job and your wife and daughter are sleeping is also emotionally taxing. We make it work and make the most of our time as a family. But for me it's just not working anymore.
My mom recently read an article about ways to figure out if you can stay at home or work part time. One suggestion was to try for a few months to live on less income, so for example we are putting away half of my salary towards bills like the furnace and car loan. So far things are working out - we've paid off our furnace 3 months earlier, saved a lot of money on eating out, spent more time at the park, and only had to take from savings once. But we're still scared.
Tim still has one more year of school that we have to pay for and then his student loan bill will come. There are some projects we would like to do on our house. What if something major breaks like my car?
But it would be great to work full time and see my family more. Have more time to mother my child and to not feel so behind at home. And to be honest I would love to nap everyday when she naps. How do others make it work? Should we take the plunge? What are your thoughts?
My mom recently read an article about ways to figure out if you can stay at home or work part time. One suggestion was to try for a few months to live on less income, so for example we are putting away half of my salary towards bills like the furnace and car loan. So far things are working out - we've paid off our furnace 3 months earlier, saved a lot of money on eating out, spent more time at the park, and only had to take from savings once. But we're still scared.
Tim still has one more year of school that we have to pay for and then his student loan bill will come. There are some projects we would like to do on our house. What if something major breaks like my car?
But it would be great to work full time and see my family more. Have more time to mother my child and to not feel so behind at home. And to be honest I would love to nap everyday when she naps. How do others make it work? Should we take the plunge? What are your thoughts?
Monday, August 15, 2011
Food fun
Tim and I thought Abby's favorite part of the fair would be the animals. However, the first animal we really looked at was a pig that stood up and snorted in her face and that was it for her. Any other animals we went to see she would cling to Tim and sometimes timidly put at them and saw "dawg".
In true Grutzmacher fashion her favorite part instead was food. She enjoyed half of my cheese perogies with bacon and sour cream -so so good. Tim tried to give her a bite of his brat bun but instead she ate 1/3 of the saurkraut instead. She enjoyed at least half of my corn on the cob and a large portion of our cream puffs. The only thing she didn't like was deep fried s'more which she immediately spit out on Tim's shirt.
Mostly she enjoyed listening to the bands and saying hi to everyone as she walked in circles to make sure no one was left out of her warm greetings. It was a great day.
Thankful
Today we spent a long time at the park. Apparently too long for Miss Abby because she crawled into her stroller to tell me it was time to go. I had kind of a bummer day but spending time with my sunshine always helps. We went for a long walk and I walked past some sketchy characters. Sometimes that's all it takes to turn my attitude around.
I am thankful to have a place to sleep every night,
A job that pays enough that I don't have to worry about food for my family,
A husband that everyday grows into an even better dad,
A daughter that is healthy and sleeps well.
I'm thankful for family that is nearby and supportive,
for marrying into an amazing family and having a mother-in-law that I can talk to about anything,
for my five amazing nephews.
And today I am thankful for engagements, adoption, and positive pregnancy tests . . . and being able to enjoy all these events without having to plan a wedding or have a baby myself :). Can't wait to boogie at your wedding SZ. Counting the days to the arrival of baby Pindel, baby K and baby bean R. Eager to meet and hold little baby girl H.
Yeah, things are looking better already.
I am thankful to have a place to sleep every night,
A job that pays enough that I don't have to worry about food for my family,
A husband that everyday grows into an even better dad,
A daughter that is healthy and sleeps well.
I'm thankful for family that is nearby and supportive,
for marrying into an amazing family and having a mother-in-law that I can talk to about anything,
for my five amazing nephews.
And today I am thankful for engagements, adoption, and positive pregnancy tests . . . and being able to enjoy all these events without having to plan a wedding or have a baby myself :). Can't wait to boogie at your wedding SZ. Counting the days to the arrival of baby Pindel, baby K and baby bean R. Eager to meet and hold little baby girl H.
Yeah, things are looking better already.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Gresham
This year Abby had her first trip to Serenade Hollow, the home in Gresham my grandparents have. We joined Abby's GGs, Aunt Angie, Uncle Jim, Tricia and Andy. Abby had a bad cold the morning we were going to leave, there was a heat advisory the whole time we were there and the poor girl had 2 teeth and 2 molars coming in. Somehow she still managed to have some fun.
While our sick little sweetheart took some good long naps, her parents enjoyed some quality time canoeing, swimming, taking long walks, kayaking and reading. We played our annual boys vs girls Trivia Pursuit and the boys remain undefeated.
Some light reading
Lots of one on one time with Mommy
Watching Daddy and the boys play baseball
Attempting to enjoy the lake
Her favorite toy GG's xylophone
While our sick little sweetheart took some good long naps, her parents enjoyed some quality time canoeing, swimming, taking long walks, kayaking and reading. We played our annual boys vs girls Trivia Pursuit and the boys remain undefeated.
Playing with Daddy
Some light reading
Lots of one on one time with Mommy
Watching Daddy and the boys play baseball
Attempting to enjoy the lake
Her favorite toy GG's xylophone
Girl Chat
The vocabulary of an almost 16 month old girl:
Daddy
TiTi (kitty)
Tee (tree or bush)
Baw (ball)
Wow, sometimes wow oh wow
Up
Mom
Mmmmm (means give me some of that)
Daw (dog - or any other animal in a book or real life)
Hi
Bye
Uh-oh
Oh (when surprised)
Abby (doesn't seem to mean anything, but she says it alot)
Daddy
TiTi (kitty)
Tee (tree or bush)
Baw (ball)
Wow, sometimes wow oh wow
Up
Mom
Mmmmm (means give me some of that)
Daw (dog - or any other animal in a book or real life)
Hi
Bye
Uh-oh
Oh (when surprised)
Abby (doesn't seem to mean anything, but she says it alot)
Friday, July 8, 2011
15 months
Hello to my adoring fans:
Today I saw Dr K with Daddy, just Daddy. It was kind of scary and I cried a lot. I just don't trust that nurse anymore even though Mommy says she is nice and good. They gave me three shots again but once that mean nurse left I eventually stopped crying. Dr K told Daddy that they need to start brushing my teeth. I don't see what the big deal is, I chew on that toothbrush almost everyday. They even gave Daddy a new toothbrush that spins and has lights I can't wait to chew on that. Mommy teases me that I have 7 and a half teeth but Dr. K said it looks like my molars might already be coming in.
Dr K told Daddy that he and Mommy are doing a good job (DUH). This appt I was 31 inches (75th %ile - hope I won't be as tall as Uncle Jay) and 22 lb 9 0z (45th % ile). Dr K said I still have a really big head, it kind of hurt my feelings but Daddy says his head is too big too and Mommy always says how he is really smart. I like to read my books all day so hopefully I'll be smart like Daddy.
I love climbing up and down stairs, chairs and anything else I can get on. Sometimes it makes Mommy mad and she says "stop". I always do but I don't want to. I like playing with my sand/water table, my bus and my gears/ball toy from Grandpa. At the end of the day I climb into my glider and read books to myself until Mommy comes to read me some of my favorites. I love Dr Seuss books, especially the Nose Book and Hands, Fingers, Toes (I got that book from my boyfriends CAW and Eli). But every night we end with The Bed Time book. I think it's Mommy's favorite besides the one about the Mama bear that kisses the baby bear. She sure loves bears.
I can say "Daddy", "Dad" and "Hi" really well. I can say Mama and Mommy but I don't say it very often because it makes Daddy laugh when I call mama Daddy. I call Cassie "Te-te" and dogs "Daw". I call balls "ba" and when I'm hungry I say "mmmm". I wish I could say more words but I say alot of sounds all day long. I'm trying hard and will be talking better soon.
I love all food that isn't a vegetable. I can feed myself pasta and yogurt with a spoon. This makes Mommy really happy because she said she likes to eat hot food too. I love all kinds of fruit except watermelon and any kind of bean. Bread and noodles are always a hit. I'm a master at the sippy cup now but get mad when people pressure me to drink more. Than I throw my cup to tell them to leave me alone.
I love all my grandparents (even Grandpa Grutz though I tease him like I'm scared). Whenever any of the babysit me I get so excited and great them with smiles. We always have a good time and they each have different fun toys and games to play. I'm so lucky to have them to visit. I love my big cousins Kayden and Kristian too. They take such good care of me and try to comfort me if I get sad or scared. I hope that I can do that for our new baby cousin Reiland someday.
I'm growing fast and getting excited by all the new things I can do. Mommy and Daddy keep telling me to slow down but there's so much more to learn.
Love,
Abby Ruth
Summer fun list
Saw this on another blog and LOVED it.
Here's Grutz, Grutzie and baby bun's summer bucket list:
1) first family vacation - done
2) Abby first Gresham trip
3) Abby first Brewer game - done
4) state fair
5) pick strawberries
6) Greek feast - done
7) German feast
8) State fair
9) Zoo with Abby's Godmother
10)camping
11) Story time at library
12) Leon's for custard
13) Hiking trip to Grant Park or Lapham's Peak
14) picnic at lake Michigan
15) swim at park
So much to do, so little time to do.
Here's Grutz, Grutzie and baby bun's summer bucket list:
1) first family vacation - done
2) Abby first Gresham trip
3) Abby first Brewer game - done
4) state fair
5) pick strawberries
6) Greek feast - done
7) German feast
8) State fair
9) Zoo with Abby's Godmother
10)camping
11) Story time at library
12) Leon's for custard
13) Hiking trip to Grant Park or Lapham's Peak
14) picnic at lake Michigan
15) swim at park
So much to do, so little time to do.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
For fun
This toy looks much more fun to ride than
this one, but still you try to ride this little bus every single day.
"Daw"
For some reason you love dogs . . . until they come by you. Today, like many other days in your wee baby life, a dog was across the street. You were shouting "daw, daw, daw" and squealing with delight. The woman walking the dog thought you were so precious so she brought the dog over for you to pet. He was a big, black dog with gray on his face. The woman said he is very old and very gentle. He didn't bark or try to lick you. Just stood really nice. I petted the nice doggy to show you not to be afriad. You on the other hand started running down the sidewalk to get away.
The dog went across the street to do some business. You kept following them from our side of the street so she brought Shadow back over. I held you for awhile while we watching him eat the high weedy grass along our stairs. I put you down by him and you watched and watched until he slowly turned to look at you. Then you started crying. So the dog and the lady left with a smile and a wave. Not even a minute later you went searching for that dog again, but he was gone.
The dog went across the street to do some business. You kept following them from our side of the street so she brought Shadow back over. I held you for awhile while we watching him eat the high weedy grass along our stairs. I put you down by him and you watched and watched until he slowly turned to look at you. Then you started crying. So the dog and the lady left with a smile and a wave. Not even a minute later you went searching for that dog again, but he was gone.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Summer Fun
Today was one of those rare days were we could just be together- not parties, no daycare, no work, no errands. After we both took a great morning nap while Daddy ate breakfast, we went for a family walk. Then for about an hour I just watched you enjoy yourself and smile. After dinner we went outside again and you pointed out all the dogs that walked by and tried to follow some home. Love you bun.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Hiking Adventure
I've been trying to post about vacation for a week but there's too much to say. So instead I'll preserve one great memory. We went on two great hikes to two different waterfalls. One of the hikes was 5 miles long and Abby did not cry or squawk once. She just enjoyed the right and would lean into our ears and say"hi" and giggle. She was smiling almost the entire time.
The second hike we took was one of the most popular trails Laurell Falls. At the end you are standing in the middle of the falls, behind you the water is cascading down another ledge. It was beautiful but crowded. While hiking up to this waterfall we came upon a big crowd of people and there up ahead was a black bear. She made a motion like she was going to charge the path and the crowd gave her even more room. She crossed the path and started climbing up the mountain. Then she stopped and looked back. There was one of her little cubs. As the cub joined her we saw another cub already up the mountain. All three of them disappeared in the trees. It was amazing and a little scary. But what I really want to remember is that sweet little voice in my ear giggling and saying "HI".
Mama Bear and Cub
Two happy hikers
The second hike we took was one of the most popular trails Laurell Falls. At the end you are standing in the middle of the falls, behind you the water is cascading down another ledge. It was beautiful but crowded. While hiking up to this waterfall we came upon a big crowd of people and there up ahead was a black bear. She made a motion like she was going to charge the path and the crowd gave her even more room. She crossed the path and started climbing up the mountain. Then she stopped and looked back. There was one of her little cubs. As the cub joined her we saw another cub already up the mountain. All three of them disappeared in the trees. It was amazing and a little scary. But what I really want to remember is that sweet little voice in my ear giggling and saying "HI".
Laurell Falls
Mama Bear and Cub
Two happy hikers
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Yes, a million times, Yes
Today I had a great talk with a co-worker. She has just come back to the work force after the challenge/privilege of being a stay at home mom for 9 years while her children were young. I told her that I constantly feel stressed out because I want to have more time to do everything - relax, cook, clean, just enjoy my family. I told her how I dream of being at home full time or part time but deep down know it would be different and the same. I still wouldn't have any time, my house would be a little less messy and I would probably long for companionship. Then I read the following blog post by another mother:
I think moms, whether we work to balance being a full time mom while also working outside of the home or whether we are at home for this time in our lives and strive to find fulfillment in the role as "just" a mother, while taking a break from other parts of ourselves...we like to be noticed. We like the pat on the back. We like for others to say, "wow, How do you do that?" It makes that hefty weight that often settles on our shoulders saying we aren't doing enough, we aren't succeeding enough, we aren't good enough...it makes that weight lighter. It makes us throw our shoulders back and realize that the lives we lead, the choices we balance, the roles we play - they matter. They are hard. And we are good enough. We are doing it - day in and day out. We GET to be mothers. We GET to have less selfish time these days. We are noticed and validated - whether anyone tells us or not.
This is exactly how I have been feeling. Other women I work with seem to be able to keep their gardens in good shape, their houses cleaned, balanced nutritious meals everyday and I wonder why can't I do it. Someone innocently asked me why can't I do these things after Abby goes to bed and then I almost cried. She wasn't being hurtful but it made me feel like I SHOULD be doing more. I just can't. 8+ hours of charting, educating, noise and then to come home to a second harder job of being a parent, forget it. I just need sleep to refuel.
So my mommy friends out there I thank you again for your support and kind words. Keep them coming and I will for you. Because we need it. I acknowledge your sacrifices whether you work 8-10 hours at a job you tolerate only to come home tired to a crabby toddler or you are home all day with pets and kids alternating between adorable and obnoxious. You are the best mom for your child/ren and they are lucky and happy to have you. And I am glad to know you.
I think moms, whether we work to balance being a full time mom while also working outside of the home or whether we are at home for this time in our lives and strive to find fulfillment in the role as "just" a mother, while taking a break from other parts of ourselves...we like to be noticed. We like the pat on the back. We like for others to say, "wow, How do you do that?" It makes that hefty weight that often settles on our shoulders saying we aren't doing enough, we aren't succeeding enough, we aren't good enough...it makes that weight lighter. It makes us throw our shoulders back and realize that the lives we lead, the choices we balance, the roles we play - they matter. They are hard. And we are good enough. We are doing it - day in and day out. We GET to be mothers. We GET to have less selfish time these days. We are noticed and validated - whether anyone tells us or not.
This is exactly how I have been feeling. Other women I work with seem to be able to keep their gardens in good shape, their houses cleaned, balanced nutritious meals everyday and I wonder why can't I do it. Someone innocently asked me why can't I do these things after Abby goes to bed and then I almost cried. She wasn't being hurtful but it made me feel like I SHOULD be doing more. I just can't. 8+ hours of charting, educating, noise and then to come home to a second harder job of being a parent, forget it. I just need sleep to refuel.
So my mommy friends out there I thank you again for your support and kind words. Keep them coming and I will for you. Because we need it. I acknowledge your sacrifices whether you work 8-10 hours at a job you tolerate only to come home tired to a crabby toddler or you are home all day with pets and kids alternating between adorable and obnoxious. You are the best mom for your child/ren and they are lucky and happy to have you. And I am glad to know you.
Friday, May 27, 2011
New Discovery
Today you discovered there's something under your shirt.
It's round, squishy and soft.
When you touched it, you would laugh and laugh.
For ten minutes you sat and touched your tummy, then your belly button and laughed
It's round, squishy and soft.
When you touched it, you would laugh and laugh.
For ten minutes you sat and touched your tummy, then your belly button and laughed
with delight.
Who needs television with entertainment like this?
Monday, May 16, 2011
A Perfect Weekend
Sure it was raining with blustery winds but this was a weekend I long for. We had no obligations, no parties, no birthdays. It was fantastic.
Friday I made a delicious breakfast casserole courtesy of one of my great book club gals. So Saturday morning Abby and I woke up at 6:30am and I started the casserole. Abby dined on cheerios, bananas and yogurt while we waited. It was delicious - spinach, ham, mushrooms, onions, cheese and more cheese. We played for a few hours until Tim woke up and then she started getting cranky. It had been a rough week in our home with ridiculous temper tantrums and screaming fits so we decided for the weekend she was going to nap whenever she wanted. From 10-12 she napped, I took a nap, Tim ate breakfast and got ready for the day. Abby woke up in great spirits so we went out to lunch - all three of us.
She was in such a good mood, smiling at everyone in the restaurant. She ate more than half her grilled cheese and all her applesauce and didn't get restless until 5 minutes before we got the bill. We then went to a rummage sale at the church we have been attending. We happened to get there when it was closing up so for $2 you could carry out anything you wanted. Abby walked around and said hello to a buddy from daycare while I searched through all the children's clothes. We ended up with a grocery store paper bag full of clothes for Abby, some board books, some items for a special boy friend of hers and a booster seat for the table when she is older. Next we stopped at the farmer's market just to see what plants are out. This whole time she was an angel. Then we headed home for her second dinner and cleaned and prepared dinner while she rested.
Bed time went smoothly, Tim read her a new story and then we got to watch a movie and have a drink in our almost clean house.
It may not sound like much but to me it was perfect. The opportunity to be a family, to do whatever we want for a whole day. The time to make our house liveable and then relax. The time to just be together and smile and laugh. The chance to be doting parents all day and then just be Tim and Jess that night. It was perfect. I can't wait for our vacation.
Friday I made a delicious breakfast casserole courtesy of one of my great book club gals. So Saturday morning Abby and I woke up at 6:30am and I started the casserole. Abby dined on cheerios, bananas and yogurt while we waited. It was delicious - spinach, ham, mushrooms, onions, cheese and more cheese. We played for a few hours until Tim woke up and then she started getting cranky. It had been a rough week in our home with ridiculous temper tantrums and screaming fits so we decided for the weekend she was going to nap whenever she wanted. From 10-12 she napped, I took a nap, Tim ate breakfast and got ready for the day. Abby woke up in great spirits so we went out to lunch - all three of us.
She was in such a good mood, smiling at everyone in the restaurant. She ate more than half her grilled cheese and all her applesauce and didn't get restless until 5 minutes before we got the bill. We then went to a rummage sale at the church we have been attending. We happened to get there when it was closing up so for $2 you could carry out anything you wanted. Abby walked around and said hello to a buddy from daycare while I searched through all the children's clothes. We ended up with a grocery store paper bag full of clothes for Abby, some board books, some items for a special boy friend of hers and a booster seat for the table when she is older. Next we stopped at the farmer's market just to see what plants are out. This whole time she was an angel. Then we headed home for her second dinner and cleaned and prepared dinner while she rested.
Bed time went smoothly, Tim read her a new story and then we got to watch a movie and have a drink in our almost clean house.
It may not sound like much but to me it was perfect. The opportunity to be a family, to do whatever we want for a whole day. The time to make our house liveable and then relax. The time to just be together and smile and laugh. The chance to be doting parents all day and then just be Tim and Jess that night. It was perfect. I can't wait for our vacation.
Monday, May 9, 2011
What I've learned - the first year
1) Aluminum foil is a fantastic window treatment.
2) Oxy-clean can almost always save the day.
3) No matter how much your husband loves you and your child, when things are real hard it's other mothers that will get you through.
4) A child can always do more than you give her/him credit for.
5) Every home needs a glider or rocking chair.
6) Sometimes children are hysterical for no reason
7) Baby food in a jar is disgusting. Try it then try to make your kid eat it.
8) My house will never be clean again.
9) My patient husband has even more patience than I could ever imagine.
10) No matter how early I go to sleep I will NEVER feel refreshed before 6am.
11) Spoons make amazing toys
12) I did not know what a true friend was until I became a mother and was supported by all of you. Happy Belated Mother's Day and thanks for all your help.
2) Oxy-clean can almost always save the day.
3) No matter how much your husband loves you and your child, when things are real hard it's other mothers that will get you through.
4) A child can always do more than you give her/him credit for.
5) Every home needs a glider or rocking chair.
6) Sometimes children are hysterical for no reason
7) Baby food in a jar is disgusting. Try it then try to make your kid eat it.
8) My house will never be clean again.
9) My patient husband has even more patience than I could ever imagine.
10) No matter how early I go to sleep I will NEVER feel refreshed before 6am.
11) Spoons make amazing toys
12) I did not know what a true friend was until I became a mother and was supported by all of you. Happy Belated Mother's Day and thanks for all your help.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Easter Fun
I think when we were growing up we went to Grandma Pindel's. All I really remember about Easter is our basket always being on our assigned kitchen chair filled with Quality Candy chocolates, my old favorite Peeps, and that delicious coconut jelly bean nest. I am not a fan of coconut but those are really good.
After negotiations we decided to have Easter with the Grutzmacher/Grudzinski/Bartl clan. Abby napped in the car as planned and we ate pretty much right after she woke up so she only wore her Easter dress about 20 waking minutes.
The Easter Bunny set up the annual egg hunt. The little boys had a great time, Abby didn't really get and Kai was too big to pretend this year. We had a delicious meal as always and spent most of the afternoon playing outside.
Tricia made a lamb cake for us this year, which I forgot to take a picture of and of course I forgot to take pictures of Abby's Easter basket. It had an adorable stuffed rabbit, two books (one of which is already destroyed), a t-shirt, bubbles, and a ball. It was perfect. Abby even went to church and was well behaved for Daddy while Mommy worked in the morning.
"Why don't you look for the eggs Dad? I already have two"
Kayden trying to figure out why Abby doesn't want to pick up the eggs in plain view.
The dress
The only front view of the dress
After negotiations we decided to have Easter with the Grutzmacher/Grudzinski/Bartl clan. Abby napped in the car as planned and we ate pretty much right after she woke up so she only wore her Easter dress about 20 waking minutes.
The Easter Bunny set up the annual egg hunt. The little boys had a great time, Abby didn't really get and Kai was too big to pretend this year. We had a delicious meal as always and spent most of the afternoon playing outside.
Tricia made a lamb cake for us this year, which I forgot to take a picture of and of course I forgot to take pictures of Abby's Easter basket. It had an adorable stuffed rabbit, two books (one of which is already destroyed), a t-shirt, bubbles, and a ball. It was perfect. Abby even went to church and was well behaved for Daddy while Mommy worked in the morning.
She didn't pick these eggs up, don't let her fool you.
"Why don't you look for the eggs Dad? I already have two"
Kayden trying to figure out why Abby doesn't want to pick up the eggs in plain view.
The dress
The only front view of the dress
Thursday, April 21, 2011
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