My Life with Dogs

Memorabilia

2011-03-14T22:23:00.003-05:00

A beautiful curio cabinet stands in my dining room. When the cabinet belonged to Swanny's Grandmother, it contained assorted pieces of Swedish crystal. It now contains various remembrances from our wedding day: crystal glasses, our guest book, the cake serving set and a shadow box with the sugar flowers from our cake framing one of the invitations for the wedding.

Swanny Jr. felt it would be an appropriate place to keep one of his most prized possessions too.

Humbled and finally thawed out

2011-03-06T22:21:00.008-06:00

Yesterday I participated in my 3rd Polar Plunge, to benefit Special Olympics Illinois.

What started 3 years ago as a daring venture with co-workers to raise a little money for a good cause has, for me, turned into much more. As a parent of a Special Olympian said to me yesterday, what we do gives voice to what those who don't have a strong voice of their own know about the importance of Special Olympics. I'm thrilled to be able to do such a thing, despite the insanity it takes to submerge myself in an ice covered lake.

The weather was the best we've had in my 3-year tenure. Sunny and not much wind.

The water was cold as ever. Despite near 40 degree weather there was LOTS of ice on the lake.

This year, I raised more money than I have before: over $4,000.

While this earned me the Silver Plunger award for the second highest individual total at our plunge site, it is to the donors, the hard fundraising work of my team and the movement of Special Olympics that the glory goes.

To say that being a part of a group that has raised over $100,000 in the past 3 years for Special Olympics is humbling would be an understatement. I just read online that the plunges this year have raised over $500,000 for the Illinois athletes. I can't think of a more deserving cause or group who needs the awareness and money that these events generate.

The mission of Special Olympics is stated as this: "Through the power of sport, Special Olympics strives to create a better world by fostering the acceptance and inclusion of all people." I've said it before, I don't think a value can be placed upon the experiences and lessons Special Olympics offers to the children and families with whom I work.

Eight of my students medaled at a Special Olympics swim meet the day before we plunged.

I saw a picture of one who medaled whom I have known since she was 3 years old. I was as proud of her as I can only imagine her parents were. A year ago, she couldn't swim and was afraid to let go of the wall of a pool. Now, she has advanced to the state games. I think of who this little girl was at the age of 3, and who she is now...I'm so proud of her.

Thank you again to everyone who donated to the Polar Plunge. Your money is going out into our communities to support the amazing and life changing work of the Special Olympics movment.

How a 2-year-old plays hide and seek

2011-03-02T23:21:00.002-06:00

February is a long month

2011-02-25T19:21:00.007-06:00

A good friend and I have said for a while now that even though February has the fewest amount of days, it seems like the longest month of the year. It typically includes what seems like a million hours of paperwork and meetings at work, the Super Bowl, the annual meeting at our church, as well as few "holidays" and birthdays. This year, February has been busy and stressful...

Still feeling euphoric over the Packers' Super Bowl win, love was abound at our house for Valentine's Day. Peanut and Swanny had their second annual date at the Daddy-Daughter dance at the YMCA.

This year, instead of just having a cookie and then wanting to leave, Peanut decided to dance. Apparently, she got most of her groove on dancing with friends, but managed to squeeze a few steps in with her dad.

With help from the neighbors, the kids also baked us this lovely Valentine's treat.

Swanny and I enjoyed dinner and a show in Chicago for Valentine's Day.

(By the way, it was AWESOME--I've only now stopped singing the songs all day long in my head!)

This past Saturday we enjoyed visiting with my cousin and her family visiting from out east. We took the opportunity to celebrate a Fairy's 3rd Birthday.

No Fairy party is complete without Pirates though.

That day though, Peanut started feeling unwell near dinner time, which I attributed to too much cake and partying. By 11 pm, the cake and punch were all over her bed. Thus started a 2 1/2 day saga of poor Peanut taking in some water or other fluids, then bringing them back up. She never ran much of a temp, but couldn't keep anything down at all. A phone call to the pediatrician Monday morning yielded typical advice on dealing with a virus (hydrate, hydrate, hydrate, medicine for fever--except she couldn't keep the medicine down). By 9 pm on Monday, the poor kid had puked about 6 or 8 times (water, Sprite, juice, Pedialyte--all of it came back up) and I was really worried about how dehydrated she was. Swanny arrived home and we took her straight to the emergency room.

That's my poor Peanut with her I.V. providing her fluids and anti-nausea medicine. She took 2 full bags of fluid and I spoon fed her a Pedialyte popsicle. The doc then told us she was confirmed to have Influenza type A and B. He then noted he had never seen anyone with both types of flu. Way to go Peanut, anything worth doing has got to be done right, huh?

She was luckily able to come home (there had been talk of admitting her to the hospital) with a prescription for Tamiflu and anti-nausea meds. The doc ordered her home from school for the duration of this week.

All in all it was a pretty scary event. It's awful to see your little ones sick and such a powerless feeling you have when there's nothing you can do to help. While I was sad to see her so sick with flu, I was still grateful it was nothing more serious.

Happy to report she is back to herself again--eating meals (no vomiting since Monday!), playing, and of course fighting with her brother.

So, the long month of February is now drawing to a close. Looking forward to March (and Spring Break), I say here's to good health and a less busy schedule. Oh yeah, and a quick jump in a lake!

Remember when I used to blog?

2011-02-07T21:48:00.008-06:00

For all my new-year's-resolutioning and positive self-talk, I have fallen miserably short on my goals to keep this blog updated...if you couldn't tell.

I am checking back in though. Tapping myself back into the ring, but this time NOT promising any kind of consistency or regularity of updates. That pressure will just get me no where.

In case you were wondering though, here are some highlights of what we have been up to at Casa de Swanny:

1. I have now completed 3 of 12 classes that will lead me to my second college degree: a master of health sciences in occupational therapy through the University of Indianapolis. I'm loving it, although finding that my perfectionist streak has not gone away despite my best attempts to bury it below the surface.

2. Swanny is training for a half-marathon in April. I'm prouder of him for making the commitment to doing this than he knows. Just wish I could be there to see him run...I'll be on campus for my next grad school class that weekend.

3. Peanut is half way through kindergarten. She has lost 4 teeth, had 2 more sleep-over parties with friends, owns an iPod complete with speakers, and now talks about BFFs. (No joke, singing a song about BFFs in the shower tonight). I swear the child is 6 going on 16 some days. She has opted out of basketball this year, but is in full swing preparing for her dance recital in May and faithfully taking private swim lessons each week at the YMCA.

4. Swanny Jr has graduated to sleeping in a big boy bed--a full size twin that he looks just too small to be allowed in. This means that the crib that converts to toddler bed has exited the upstairs. That piece of furniture has been a fixture in this house for over 6 years. I was a little torn up to see it go. I'll be a mess when we paint the room this spring so that no traces of a baby's room are left....

5. Swanny Jr. is now wearing underwear all day long and staying dry (I said that last part in a whisper not to jinx us into regression). He is particular about picking them out himself each day--already has a pair of Thomas laid out for tomorrow. You'll find no feelings of nostalgia or sadness at not having to buy diapers anymore from this mommy.

6. Peanut can read. Watch out world, it's only a matter of time before she's in control of it all.

7. An amazing friend and co-worker of mine took the most beautiful pictures of our family over the summer at Starved Rock State Park. Every time I look at them I'm reminded how lucky I am to have such a special family.

8. Swanny Jr. has a "new" babysitter. His (and Peanut's) former sitter took advantage of an amazing opportunity to start a new job late last spring, and Swanny Jr. now goes to Ms. Frances while we work. I know he loves her because a) he calls me Ms. Frances sometimes on the weekend and b) she was the first one he wanted to show his new big boy bed to.

9. We had an invasion of super-heroes at Halloween. Word up, it's Word Girl! To infinity and beyond!

10. Swanny played comish and ran his own fantasy football league this year. I participated along with 8 other friends of ours. I was awarded the Toilet Bowl Award yesterday for finishing in last place. (Yes, that is a roll of toilet paper on my trophy). I was OK though since the Packers won the Super Bowl.

11. We still love our doggies.

12. Swanny demonstrated his temerity by taking on a Man Vs. Food challenge in Indianapolis on his way to a Monday Night Football adventure with a buddy.

13. I continue to serve our church in a leadership role--mainly feeling like I'm stumbling through, feeling my way in the dark. I am realizing though there are many things I'm learning about myself and about people in general. Going to try my best in the next 11 months that I have left to serve in this capacity to do the job faithfully, but to be sure I'm not short-changing my kids and husband in the process. I need to make sure it doesn't drain me of all the energy I have.

14. I am very much looking forward to going to see Les Miserables in Chicago next weekend with my husband and friends of ours.

15. I am aware that I need to make more time for things that are important to a well balanced life: time for family (the family that lives outside of my house as well as the children and husband I come home to every day), time for reading, time for yoga, and time for playing with my kids.

Oh, and I need to make more time for blogging.

No promises, but I'm going to try--what else can I do when all this snow is on the ground?!

A book with Bite

2010-10-19T21:26:00.004-05:00

I was excited to learn that one of my favorite thriller writers, Jack Kilborn (J.A. Konrath) was teaming up with three other wickedly fun authors to create "Draculas". Based on previous works by each of these guys, I knew to expect a full-speed, chaotic, blackly humorous, frightfest. I was mostly right.

Written in a style where there are no chapter breaks, only shifts of character perspective, "Draculas" doesn't really allow readers to catch a breath. The action takes place in the close quarters of a small town hospital, so when the action gets rolling, you can feel yourself being pushed and pulled through the claustrophobic hallways while characters are fighting for their lives. There are moments of humor and set against this backdrop, the jokes are darkly hilarious. While a good scary book was what I was expecting, it's not quite what came through. Horrifying? Yes; in the best possible ways. But scary? Not to me, but maybe to some.

It's available now as a Kindle exclusive for $2.99. The story itself is around 80,000 words and the bonus content (yeah, like a friggin' DVD, the book includes interviews with the authors, a behind the scenes look at the making of the project, short stories by the authors, and a look at their upcoming releases) is another 80k.

Get it here: http://www.amazon.com/DRACULAS-Novel-Terror-ebook/dp/B0042AMD2M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=books&qid=1284569826&sr=8-1

Now turn off the lights, lock the doors, and get reading. I'd love to know what you think.

Birthdays... exciting kids since, well, forever

2010-05-21T21:25:00.005-05:00

Our little boy is two. It's hard to reconcile the unassuming baby boy who came into our lives two years ago, with the big boy (and sometime wild thing) who makes his presence known at every opportunity.

On the evening when he was born, Peanut didn't quite know what to think of her new baby brother. Seeing that tiny person swaddled in a blanket, and the weary look on her mommy's face, Peanut was not her usual boisterous self. A few minutes of peeking at Swanny Jr., and seeing that he wasn't a shrieking monster, she did eventually warm up.

In the two years since that afternoon, Swanny Jr. has grown into quite the big boy. He's a big fan of Buzz Lightyear, Superman, Thomas, his books, and basketball. Always on the go, he never fails to entertain.

Happy Birthday sir.

A flower by any other name...

2010-04-27T21:19:00.004-05:00

About four years ago, Jen and I stumbled upon method, a company that makes environmentally friendly cleaning products. This is from their company info page:

what we're for

At method, we call ourselves "people against dirty." And by "dirty," we don't just mean the stuff dust bunnies are made of. method isn't only about cleaning up your home or your body; it's about cleaning up the way we clean.

You may not know it, but if you're using typical household cleaners or common personal care products, you could be messing around with dangerous chemicals. Chemicals that aren't just bad for your home and the environment, but for you and your family as well.

So what can you do about it? You can change. You can take a good hard look at the way you're cleaning, and see that harsh chemicals and toxins have no place in your home, no place in your body and no place in your cleaning products.

Planet friendly and people friendly. No more hiding your cleaning products out of sight; or locking them up to keep your kids and pets safe. Sounds great, right? It is.

Prior to discovering method, we used products from the Clorox family (who at the time, had no people friendly products). Jen and Peanut both suffered from allergies to dust and pollen, and we thought that keeping the house bleachy-clean would ease their suffering. Ironically, Jen often felt worse after cleaning. Couldn't be the chemicals wreaking havoc on my family's respiratory system, could it?

So we switched to method, and the house is just as clean and the family can breathe easier. It's something that Clorox couldn't offer us. Maybe that has me in an uproar against Clorox anyway, but this has pushed me over the edge: Clorox seems to be claiming to own the daisy. That's right; a flower.

You can read the details here (make sure you read the pdf of the letter and legal paperwork from Clorox); but I think the video sums it up nicely. What do you think? Watch, then vote.

Weekend update, over due, again

2010-04-19T22:06:00.002-05:00

What does my church mean to me?

That about sums it up.

Love, compassion, equality, acceptance, hope, love, community.

God really is still speaking. I hope we're listening.

This date in history

2010-04-14T11:19:00.005-05:00

April 14th 1865: President Abraham Lincoln shot in Ford's Theater by John Wilkes Booth

1902: JC Penney opens his first store, in Kemmerer, Wyoming

Marie & Pierre Curie isolaed the radioactive element radium

1925: First regular-season Cubs game to be broadcast on radio (WGN)

1948: A flash of light is observed in crater Plato on the Moon

1971: Supreme Court upheld busing as means of achieving racial desegregation

1978: WRR-AM in Dallas, Texas changes call letters to KAAM

1979: Susan Horvath, of Penn is crowned America's Young Woman of the Year

Congratulations to Ms. Horvath, but this is who should've won as soon as she was born.

As Peanut pointed out to anyone who would listen, "Today is my mommy's birthday. She's 31!"

Happy Birthday Jen!

Toothless Thursday

2010-04-08T20:59:00.002-05:00

"So what'd you do today?"

"Nothing much. Went to work, sold some books, picked up the kids, and pulled Peanut's second tooth."

Has he learned anything?

2010-04-07T21:38:00.004-05:00

Saw this new Nike ad causing a little stir on interweb. Over an image of a remorseful looking Woods, we hear the (I assume) digitally replicated voice of Earl Woods, Tiger's late father. On one hand, it plays as Nike standing behind one their athletes, encouraging him to examine both the life he has chosen to lead and those he has hurt with the choices he made.

On the other hand, it looks like Nike trying to make some dough off of Tiger's return to competition this weekend. As with most things in advertising, the truth is most likely somewhere in the middle.

Earl and Tiger @ Yahoo! Video

Let me say this: I don't know Tiger Woods. I don't know anyone involved with the whole sorry, horrible mess. Do I think he's proven himself to be a horrible husband? Clearly. Do I think he's a bad father because of his actions? Maybe. It kind of depends on what impact this whole thing has had on his kids as well as what steps he's taken to make sure his kids are fine from here on out. Do I think (as others seem to) that Tiger's a terrible person because of his actions. I don't think so. Am I glad to see him back on the golf course doing what he does best? Absolutely.

When all of this broke into the news, I took a little bit of flack from people for continuing to wear my Nike Tiger Woods golf cap. As I pointed out to these people, my hat was a golf cap, not a "world's greatest dad/husband" hat. I'm not sure what's best for Tiger and his family on a personal level because, as I've said, I don't know them. But, personally, I think that Woods being back on the course is, if nothing else, great for golf and golf fans.

I'm not looking for validation or confirmation. Just wanted to share the ad, and say that I don't know what's right or wrong here; but with all the anger in the world, can't we wait and see how it all plays out? Maybe it will be a hollywood type ending for his family and the game he loves. Maybe it'll all go to shit and he'll lose everything.

Like I said before, it'll probably be somewhere in the middle.

Weekend update volumes 12 & 13

2010-04-05T15:35:00.003-05:00

Swanny totally stole my blogging time Sunday I'll have you know. I decided to let him have his 5 minutes on "his" blog so I'm posting today to make up for some lost time.

I took a 2 week hiatus because I wasn't exactly sure what to say about the recent goings on here at My Life with Dogs. I felt to publish posts that simply chronicled our family photos and random acts of the children would be doing our readers a disservice because it would be hiding the real issues that were occupying our time.

Many of our readers know that Swanny and I belong to the First Congregational United Church of Christ in Ottawa, IL. I can only speak for myself, but I LOVE my church. I love its vision and mission. I love the message of its ministry. I love how mission-minded we are. I love that we are Open and Affirming and extend a welcoming hand to everyone. I love the people there--they make me feel both comforted and challenged. They help me grow spiritually and intelectually.

Our church has recently encountered a crisis, to put it plainly. In the past 3 weeks, we have had a member (also a church employee) arrested and charged with 2 counts of arson as well as with embezzling a rather large amount of money from the church. (The arson being an apparent attempt to divert attention from the money matter). No one was physically injured in the fire and the fire was not set at the church, but it was an act of violence against 2 other members of the congregation.

To say that we all have felt betrayed on a personal level is quite literally an understatement. The person in question was someone who was close to many of us, including our children. She was in fact, Peanut's sunday school teacher. She was the mother of 3 children herself and my heart simply breaks to think of what those children now have to live with and face.

The initial shock of what happened took days to sink in and still longer to process. The magnitude of the financial situation is still something I personally am grasping at and I think will be something that will take a long time for people to fully understand the depth of. We are all grieving at this point--for our church, for missions and other causes that likely never received money they were due, for having always operated on trust rather than on good business sense, for a family that has been torn apart and will NEVER be the same again, for people who have suffered a devastating loss of their home and property, which while they may get much of that back, they will never get back the time, energy and emotion they have spent and will spend dealing with the situation.

I don't know what the future holds for sure for our member who now sits in jail, awaiting a trial they say some time in June. I don't know what the future holds for her girls or her husband, but I think of them every day and pray that they know they still have a church family who loves them. I pray that they feel the mercy and love of Jesus and of His church here in Ottawa.

While I don't know exactly what the future holds for our members who have been displaced from their home, I do know that they have significant trials ahead of them and lots of work to do in putting their lives back together.

I don't know what the future holds for our church. SIGNIFICANT changes in policy and procedure will need to take place, but the tricky thing is, we all see this situation from different shoes. We all had different relationships with those involved and bring different experiences to the table when we put the pieces back together. Listening to each other with patience and open hearts is all we can do.

Radical forgiveness and mercy. Our pastor has taught us that revenge is nothing but violence continuing a violent cycle. She has taught us that Jesus is our role-model of mercy, compassion and love. I have been AMAZED at how this has come to life in our congregation. I think it was best explained as we have noted we love and support our members who have been displaced from their home due to the fire but we love and support our member who is accused of these awful deeds and her family as well. That is who we are as Christ's church.

As the path unfolds for our congregation and at least one very troubled family, we'll all learn and grow. I know that I have witnessed the Gospel being lived out right in my own church, which is amazing, despite the "bad stuff" we're living through too....

Hey, remember when I used to blog?

2010-04-03T22:48:00.004-05:00

I feel as though I owe some folks an apology. I've been neglecting My Life With Dogs. Hell, this is my first post since... well, it's been too long.

All of my reasons for not blogging are tired, half-assed excuses; "I can't blog in the morning because I have to take Peanut and HP to pre-school, and get some miles in before work at 1", "I can't write tonight because I just got home from work, it's 10 p.m., and I'd like to converse with Jen and watch some DVR before I collapse into bed", "I can't blog during my day off, because I need to get some shit done," and on and on.

And twitter. Don't get me started on twitter. At first, I didn't think that I would get into twitter all that much, but it's really sucked me in. A chance to be funny, poignant, sarcastic, whatever, in no more than 140 characters? I'm in.

If I'm suffering from writer's block, nobody on twitter notices until a new tweet shows up in their feed. On here, if I'm struggling for words, people notice because the same post stares them in the face until Jen posts our family shenanigans for the week.

Ironically, several of the people I follow on twitter are fellow bloggers. Folks like @DadGoneMad, @undomesticdiva, @MyBottlesUp, @amalah, @mommywantsvodka, @maggiedammit, and @cheekylotus make me laugh, make me think, and make me want to be a better blogger.

So; apologies to Jen, who has had to shoulder the load in keeping this blog entertaining. She has done a terrific job of making sure (at least weekly) that we're up to date. I've been slacking lately, and Jen's been keeping our online house in order. If I'd waited to blog much longer, she'd shut down my access. To the blog, stop it.

From now on, need a couple of laughs? More musings than Jen's weekly wrap-ups? I'm at your service once again, constant reader.

Weekend update volume 11

2010-03-15T22:34:00.003-05:00

Can you believe this kid is 8 today???

Happy birthday Jay-bug!

I'm sure if he sees this he'll roll his eyes as only he (and his mom) can because he is getting too big, too old and way too cool for his Auntie to call him that anymore.

We miss you mister and can't wait to see you soon!!

Hope you had a fabulous birthday!!

Weekend Update Volume 10--Popsicle Edition

2010-03-07T20:40:00.009-06:00

The 2010 Polar Plunge to benefit Special Olympics Illinois took place today. I, along with 22 team mates, and many many others to an icy dip into Loon Lake in Yorkville, Illinois.

And it was icy...did you see all the ice and snow on the lake in that video?? Here it is again, in case you missed it.

NOTE: See all of that ice out there?!?!

Here is what the lake looked like last year....

Yeah, it was a little bit colder this year.

According to the thermometer, the lake was a balmy 15 degrees.

I apologize that there are not yet any action shots of the team in mid-plunge, but I'm working on laying hands on some.

You'll have to do with some prep and lead up shots:

There are many thoughts and emotions running through me at this moment..

Pride: in a team that undertook this "crazy" challenge with a goal set in their minds to raise as much money as we could in order to support the kids we love so much and the movement that has changed the lives of so many.

Amazement: in the generosity of my friends, family, co-workers and community members. We more than DOUBLED the amount of money that we raised last year. For those of you who didn't know, last year our team won the award for raising the most money in the state, which was about $20,000. This year our total is in the the approximate ball park of $52,000.00. (You read that right--amazing!!)

Humility: to be a part of such an unbelievable group of women who have done something so wonderful for people who teach us so much and deserve to have the experience of Special Olympics for their journey in life. Being a part of something like this reminds me that my own fears, anxieties, and excuses just get in the way. This type of event is so much bigger than just me, its importance is so far reaching, how can I not be a part of it?

By the way I call this picture above, the "Medal Sweep." Members of our team (from left to right) took the Gold Plunger, Bronze Plunger and Silver Plunger for being the top 3 individual money earners at our event. Our team captain is pictured on the right is holding the Golden Plunger our team won for raising the most money at the event.

Two of the reasons I've done this:

To me what the Special Olympics movement means was summed up best in a letter written by Timothy Shriver, son of Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the founder of Special Olympics, upon her death in 2009 noting what her ambition with this endeavor entailed:

"her unconditional love for the athletes of Special Olympics that so fulfilled her life. As Thomas Merton, the Trappist monk and social activist reminded us: "the beginning of love is to let those we love be perfectly themselves, and not to twist them to fit our own image, lest we love only the reflection of ourselves we find in them." Her love for the athletes of Special Olympics was always just like that. She never hoped that people with intellectual disabilities should be somehow changed into something they were not. Rather, she fought throughout her life to ensure that they would be allowed to reach their full potential so that we might in turn be changed by them, forced to recognize our own false assumptions and their inherent gifts.  "

Thank you to everyone out there who sponsored me or someone on my team. Your support of us means support to the Special Olympics Athletes and the movement that continues to reach and inspire thousands across our community, country and the world.

Do you know what this number is??

2010-03-04T23:32:00.004-06:00

$22,589.94

That would be the running total so far that the Power Plungers have raised for the Polar Plunge for Special Olympics! We've officially topped what we raised last year when we were the top money earning team in the state.

We plunge on Sunday at 1:00 and we're pumped.

Thank you to everyone who has donated and supported us so far. Thank you for deciding that this Cause is worth working for and giving to.

There is still time to donate if you haven't had the chance yet!

Pictures to follow on Sunday!

Weekend Update volume 9

2010-02-28T07:27:00.003-06:00

Men out there--you're on notice.

(Taken from Saturday's edition of the Quad City Times)

"Making its way around the e-mail world is a list titled "Nine Words Women Use." It's meant as a guide for men. So, fellas, pay attention:

1. FINE--This is the word women use to end an argument when they are right and you need to shut up.

2. FIVE MINUTES--If she is getting dressed, this means half an hour. Five minutes is only five minutes if you have just been given five more minutes to watch the game before helping around the house.

3. NOTHING--This is the calm before the storm. This means something and you should be on your toes. Arguments that begin with "nothing" usually end in "fine."

4. GO AHEAD--This is a dare, not permission. Don't do it!

5. LOUD SIGH--This is not actually a word, but it is a non-verbal statement often misunderstood by men. A loud sigh means she thinks you are an idiot and wonders why she is wasting her time standing here arguing with you about nothing. (Refer back to #3 for the meaning of "nothing.")

6. THAT'S OK--This is one of the most dangerous statements a woman can make to a man. "That's OK" means she wants to think long and hard before deciding how and when you will pay for your mistake.

7. THANKS--A woman is thanking you. Do not question it or faint. Just say "you're welcome." (We must add a clause here. This is true unless she says "Thanks a lot." That is pure sarcasm and she is not thanking you at all. Do not say "You're welcome" in response. That will bring on a "whatever." See below.)

8. WHATEVER--This is a woman's way of giving her man a directive that begins with a four-letter word.

9. DON'T WORRY ABOUT IT, I GOT IT--Another dangerous statement, meaning this is something the woman has told the man to do several times but is no doing herself. This will later result in a man asking, "What's wrong?" For the woman's response to that, refer to #3."

Gentlemen, I hope this helps clear up any misunderstandings out there.

Ladies, you're welcome.

Weekend Update Volumes 7 & 8

2010-02-21T22:42:00.003-06:00

Ok, so I missed a week. Does that technically count as already breaking my new year's resolution?

Life has been running at break-neck speed around the Swanny household lately. Unfortunately, I've been finding myself either in the grips of a ho-hum-type attitude no doubt brought on by the gloomy cold and busyness, or I find myself running after children and wiping noses and taking temperatures instead of snapping cute pictures of them.

In the past 12 days:

Swanny Jr as gotten 2 new teeth

Swanny Jr has had croup

Swanny Jr has had at least 3 days of fever (not for a week now--hopefully it lasts)

Swanny Jr has begun using 2 and 3 word phrases consistently for example:

Daddy shoes

Butt poop

Daddy running

Adam eat it, all gone

Aw, jeez (sounds just like his dad when he says that one)

Peanut and Swanny attended the Daddy-Daughter Dance at the YMCA stepping both of them out of their social comfort zones. They looked so sweet, but only had enough interest for dancing one song, having a cookie then coming home.

Peanut had camp-out day at Pre-school complete with jammies and s'mores.

Peanut has scored at least 6 points in the 2 basketball games she has played in.

Swanny took a run in the snow today and LOVED it.

Swanny has been reading, cooking and cleaning a lot because his wife is so caught up in all of the work she has to get done.

I have been raising money like a lunatic for Special Olympics (you can still donate--there's still time!!)

I have been LOVING the new flip-video camera that my dad and step-mom gave me for an early birthday present.

I am up to my ears in my current grad school class--readings, papers, presentations oh my!

All of the "little" things out of the way, we have entered the Lent season. Lent has never really been terribly important to me personally--just another thing that in my Catholic upbringing made me feel sad and guilty. This year, however, the thought of not being able to be at church on Ash Wednesday for Soup Supper and Taize service was quite troubling to me so despite the hectic go-go-go schedule we had this past week, the kids and I made it there for supper and service. It was worth it. Good community, nice meditation time (even with a squirmy 22 month old on my lap), and good things to think about.

I'll quote part of Pastor Lisa's prayer:

"In fear, but also in hope we come together with ashes on our heads. The planet is dying in our hands, people turn to each other for food and strength only to be shoved away. Each day we deal in death, yet pretend that we are good. Let us take forty days to look hard at our so-called goodness and see what it covers up. Then we will join together on taking up the cross of living in the world as it is, for there is only one earth and one human race."

Lent for me is going to be a time of reflection of what the truth is in me and around me--and how the path that I choose to walk is an expression of that truth or a contradiction to it...not easy stuff to ponder, but life isn't always supposed to be easy, is it?

Soup supper is every Wednesday during lent at 6:00 at First Congregational United Church of Christ in Ottawa. Taize service follows at 7:00 with lessons, prayer, songs and time for reflection and meditation. It's a nice way to get centered and connect at the same time. You should come!

That's the latest from My Life with Dogs. Fair warning, next weekend's update will likely be entitled: Paper due Monday, see you next weekend. I need to get back to that now....take care!

Weekend Update Volume 6 (a day late)

2010-02-08T20:40:00.004-06:00

It's that time of year again folks! You know, the time of year when I voluntarily allow my body temperature to plummet, risking life, limb and hypothermia all in the name of Special Olympics! I am once again part of an award winning team that will be taking a dip into Loon Lake in Yorkville, IL on March 7th. We have our sights set on raising the most money in the state again as we did last year. HELP US OUT!!

Over 22,000 individuals in the state of Illinois participate in Special Olympics. It is an organization that is near and dear to my heart as many of the children with whom I work day in and day out take part in it. I cannot even begin to describe the impact Special Olympics makes on their lives. It teaches them the value of hard work, the reward of dedication and perseverance, and above all it helps them believe that they can do more than they ever thought possible.

Illinois has a proud place in the Special Olympics movement history. Chicago, specifically Soldier Field, was the sight of the first Special Olympics games in July of 1968. Mayor Richard Daley noted to the amazing Eunice Kennedy Shriver that "the world will never be the same after this." Thankfully, he was right. In a 2008 tribute to Eunice, on the 40th anniversary of the first Special Olympics games, a Sports Illustrated article noted that the Special Olympics movement "did nothing less than release an entire population from a prison of ignorance and misunderstanding. It did something else too--create a cathartic covenant between competitor and fan that is unlike anything else in sport. You watch and what you see is nothing less than a transformation, the passage of someone who has been labeled unfortunate, handicapped, disabled or challenged to something else: athlete."

We're freezin' for a reason. Honor the Special Olympics heritage of Illinois and donate to the Polar Plunge!!

Weekend Update Volume 5

2010-01-30T22:35:00.005-06:00

Swanny Jr. and Peanut were getting ready for the Pro Bowl today.

Swanny Jr. received a very cool football gift from Grandpa and Grandma for Christmas and the kids really got into tonight.

You put the football in the top

press the lever down,

and it snaps the ball to you.

Then you're set to pass it like Payton Manning or Drew Brees.

The kids had fun with it tonight.

Swanny Jr. caught the ball a few times with my help, but on the occasion he resisted assistance, the ball typically hit him right in the forehead.

He then took to pressing the lever and stepping to the side, letting Peanut field the ball.

Peanut became quite good at catching the ball. She would then proclaim, "She scores!" and dance around like Ickey Woods.

Too bad the video was too dark to post. What a fun time.

Weekend Update Volume 4

2010-01-24T21:37:00.009-06:00

778. Any guesses as to what that number represents?

This is the approximate grand total number of miles that Swanny and I traveled this weekend, including a trip to the Quad Cities to drop the kids off with Swanny's mom, a trip to St. Louis for a wonderful wedding celebration, and the return trip to pick up the kids and come home.

My dear friend from college, Molly got hitched this weekend. Molly has been a friend of mine ever since, in my second year of college, I moved in next door to her in the dorms and in meeting her discovered that she was also on her way to becoming an occupational therapist. We've since shared many of life's experiences together: ups and downs with school, health challenges, weddings, births, family drama, you name it. Distance between us certainly means we don't see each other as often as we would like, but our friendship has lasted.

Swanny's mom generously offered to watch the kids for the weekend for us so they didn't have to make the long drive and so that we could enjoy some mom and dad time away. So, after dropping the children off on Friday night, we headed out to St. Louis Saturday morning. After relaxing with an appetizer and a few beers at the Irish Pub in our hotel, we tidied ourselves up and joined up with friends at St Xavier College Church on the campus of St Louis University for the wedding. After the beautiful ceremony, complete with EIGHT flower girls and one ring bearer, we proceeded to the Missouri Athletic Club to celebrate their union with toasts, dinner and dancing. The reception ended about midnight but we moved the party to a new venue (the Irish Pub we had already visited earlier in the night). Despite the late, late night (I'm getting too old to stay out until 3:30 am), much fun was had by all. Swanny and I dragged ourselves out of bed and headed out to collect the kiddos from Grammy this morning, then made the drive back home from her house. Here are some shots of the action from the wedding:

The big girls walked down together. The 3 babies were pulled in a wagon by the ring bearer and another flower girl. It was too precious.

I just love the anticipation of looking for the bride--here are Molly's 3 sisters and her mom awaiting her entry...

Mr & Mrs!

Is it obvious the wine and drinks were flowing freely at this point?

Swanny and Mr. Seimons decided that since the bride and groom hadn't eaten their pieces of cake (well over an hour after they had been served) that they would take care of it for them! They sat right down at the head table as the reception wound down, and enjoyed the uneaten wedding cake.

All in all, the miles and time were totally worth it.

Congratulations to Molly and Patrick. I know the future holds years of love, laughter and adventure for you both. The ups and downs of life seem a little more managable when you're holding the hand of a partner in whom you have complete love and trust. It's amazing to me that with as many weddings as I have celebrated over the years that I am still able to see something new in the joy of a wedding. This weekend I fully recognized the happiness these two families shared in as they welcomed new family members and celebrated their family growing.

Congrats to my friends and their families!! (And another big thanks to Grammy for watching the kids for us. They had a ball! I'm sure she's going to be sharing some of the great pictures she took of the kids at her house on her blog soon!)

Weekend Update Volume 3

2010-01-18T22:14:00.006-06:00

So my weekend update is a little late. I have had many thoughts flying around my head this weekend for writing about on the blog. I knew we were planning a family day-trip today and thought I would include the photos from it. As it turns out the pictures didn't turn out that great (for the health and safety of the animals--no flash-photography at the Shedd Aquarium).
Here's the hodgepodge post I have:

Book club was held at our house on Friday night. We read this one:

It was a well written and well told story and we had a great discussion about it. The story tells about a Chinese-American boy who befriends a girl of Japanese ancestry. It details the events that unfold during World War II as his friend and her family experience the internment that many American citizens lived through as Japanese Americans were "relocated" in order to ensure national security. Their relationship and the course of their lives far past the war is of course the focus of the story, but you can't ignore the ordeal of the Japanese American families in the story. They lost their property, most of their possessions, their jobs, and their ways of life simply because of their ancestry. We discussed how things like these camps could come to pass in a country like ours and how it's easy to forget, when you look back on your history, the ways in which we impair the liberties of our own citizens for "the greater good." We discussed how the Patriot Act seems to fill this need for the 21st century. I know that hindsight is clearer than foresight, and in times of great danger sacrifices must be made, but how could we fight for liberties abroad when were denying them to our own people on our own soil? The book was good, you should read it.
Next month's book will be this one:

I think it promises for a good read and probably less social/political commentary from me.

On the note of further political commentary, my heart has been breaking this week to hear of the struggles coming out of Haiti following the devastating earthquake there. The stories of rescue, of loss, of children without parents and medical professionals ready to treat but no access to equipment with which to treat the badly injured make me feel so helpless. When I feel such empathy for people whom I do not know, have never met and have no direct impact on my own life, it reminds me that there is unity within the human spirit. We are all connected by our humanity. That being said, I'm really frustrated by "Christians" using ridiculous excuses for their own lack of generosity of spirit. God is within us all and the model we have before us is to be as generous with each other as God has been with us. Earthquakes happen because tectonic plates rub against each other, not because slave nations throw off the rule of European countries and for lack of better explanation said Europeans decide the only way they could have done so is to have made a deal with the devil. The people of Haiti deserve help now because they are people in desperate need, not because their souls need saving from the devil.

Onto a lighter topic, we made our January trip to the Shedd Aquarium today. Both children were well behaved and had a very good time. Swanny Jr. demonstrated use of several new words--shark, frog, and turtle were some of the ones we heard the most. When we arrived, Peanut made a bee-line for Nickel, the green sea turtle who is the main attraction of the Caribbean Reef and her all-time favorite animal at the aquarium. They both loved the sharks, the jellyfish, the frogs and the dolphin and Beluga whale show. Unfortunately, most of the pictures we snapped today are too blurry to really share. Here is the best shot we managed today of Peanut and Swanny Jr. with the Emperor Penguin statue.

Sadly, this is the last time anyone saw Peanut's Angelena Ballerina doll, which she insisted on taking with her today. We had it at the Penguins, but Peanut didn't have her when we left the Fantasea show at the Oceanarium. Hopefully, I'll get a call from the aquarium's lost and found where I left our name, address and phone number as well as a detailed description of Peanut's missing doll. At least it wasn't her Snoopy....

Thanks for indulging my hodgepodge and my ranting. I just haven't the patience for the nonsense right now. More light-hearted blogging to come this week!

Look at those choppers, will ya?

2010-01-12T21:37:00.003-06:00

Remember when you were a kid and you discovered you had a loose tooth? Remember how it was the coolest thing in the world to worry that tooth back and forth, round and round? Remember how you couldn't wait to show your new tricks to everyone around you? As a kid, it was pretty damn cool.

As a parent, it's pretty damn... ugh.

Thirteen days of waiting. Thirteen days of fidgeting, wiggling, and twisting. Thirteen days of making the adults around her cringe every time she'd prod that loose tooth with her tongue.

Tonight, after a bit of prodding from Jen as she left for a meeting, Peanut asked me to pull her tooth. It took me a bit to get over the heebie-jeebies, but I was able to sit Peanut down and two quick yanks later...

Peanut's very happy with her new gap and is very excited to see what the Tooth Fairy leaves for her under her pillow. Anybody know the going rate for a first tooth?

Weekend Update Volume 2 (part 2)

2010-01-09T20:58:00.004-06:00

So did I tell you about the time my husband decided to divorce me?

Well, brace yourselves because I'm sure that'll be coming as soon as he sees the package due to arrive at our house within 3 business days from Barnes and Noble.

I am the worst kind of spouse who shopped the competition in order to find a planner that will meet my scheduling needs for the next 12 months.

I refuse to pay full price for a calendar, especially after I was told by a reliable source, that calendars are still profitable when they are being sold for $1 in February. Why pad the profit of a big company by paying $12 or more for one in December when you can't even use the thing until January anyway??

Well, I think this is the reason why you buy them early. I need a new planner so that I can be sure I'm not missing annual reviews, evaluations, team meetings, yoga classes and basketball games. Swanny brought me one home from his store that he thought was similar to the one I had been using this year. The only similarity was the size really. I described what I needed (month at a glance, weeks broken down and hour slots on the days) and sadly, Swanny's store was out of those particular planners.

I discovered, however in cleaning house of some old gift cards that had piled up in my kitchen, a $5.00 gift card a student had given me at least 2 or 3 years ago from Barnes and Noble. I remember when Swanny saw that I had been gifted this item he nearly had a stroke. That must be how it got buried and forgotten in the message center on my refrigerator. Anyway, I found on their website a planner that I think will suit my needs, used my gift card and will be expecting divorce papers just as soon as my husband sees the package arrive.

You think I'm kidding? Swanny often won't even call that company by it's name. "The guys with the Green Sign" are the nice way he talks about them. I have witnessed him tell folks that the people who own/run/work for/shop at "the guys with the green sign" are baby eaters. That's right, they eat babies. He also told me that just a week or so ago someone asked him about the nook (the B&N e-reader) and he advised the guy to not get one because it would burst into flames in his hand.

He'll have an even bigger tantrum when I tell him I ordered it using his computer!

Anyone have a comfy couch I can sleep on?

Weekend Update Volume 2 (Part1)

2010-01-08T21:38:00.003-06:00

I had intended to post a photo-heavy recap of the recent fun at My Life With Dogs earlier this week, but I think I need to just be content with my weekend-update-blogging-resolution and not put extra pressure on myself.

Here goes:

Peanut's 5th birthday was a hoot. Grandparents and neighbors gathered at our house for fancy cupcakes and gifts galore about 2 weeks prior to the big day.

As presents go, the Swan Palace was the biggest hit, but the Caboodle filled with nail polish, lip gloss and a new boa sure was a favorite too.

On the day of her birthday, Peanut invited 2 friends over for her first ever sleep-over. The girls had a ball with pizza, dress up, nail-painting, playing, movies and of course an impromptu concert from 2 beloved local musicians.

Swanny Jr. was frustrated during the event as he was banished from Peanut's bedroom where the girls were playing. He finally gave up and instead decided to play Twister Hopscotch on his own....except all he wanted to do was wear the rings as fancy necklaces.

Peanut has also christened her Easy Bake oven, concocting the yellow cake with chocolate frosting (she also had to add princess sprinkles).

She donned her apron and mixed away.

She removed the cake and helped me serve it up.

Swanny Jr. loved his portion.

Peanut, in her own words, "got carried away" and ate not only her piece but Swanny's quarter as well.

Christmas was very nice. I have found since becoming a mother that I thoroughly love experiencing events like this through my kids. They are just so genuine in their excitement and enjoyment.

Swanny Jr. said "mine" every time a present was handed to him and could this holiday season pick out any Santa within a 20 foot radius wherever we went. Peanut carefully put out cookies, carrots and milk for Santa and his reindeer. She woke up sadly on Christmas morning saying she hadn't heard Santa's sleigh nor heard him say "Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night" so she was certain that he hadn't come to our house. This was of course not the case. Santa brought presents for Peanut, Swanny Jr. and Swanny. I *ahem* must not have been on the nice list because my stocking was empty....

Swanny Jr. is getting so big. He and Peanut both had check ups at the pediatrician's office and I was not entirely shocked to find out that he's tipping the scale at 30 pounds already. Now I know the source of my back pain. Here he is doing what he does best: eating.

Applesauce. Everywhere. It was responsible for the extra body in his hair the rest of the day no matter how much I tried to wash it out.

Anyway, things are settling down a little now that the holidays are behind us. You can find Swanny at home more nights now rather than working. You can find me chasing after a 1 year old making sure he isn't hitting the dog with his light saber or pulling all of the movies off of the shelf. I may also be painting a 5 year old's nails, helping her fasten on a crown or fancy dress up jewelry, or telling her to stop wiggling her loose tooth in front of me (it's soooo starting to creep me out).

You'll find Peanut most nights now dressed up as a princess and playing in her new tent....

You'll find Swanny Jr....

in time out. (Probably for hitting, throwing, or some other transgression typical of a one and a half year old boy). This one's going to bring on the gray hair like no other for us I have a feeling....

Have a good weekend everyone!

Weekend Update Volume 1

2010-01-03T23:26:00.008-06:00

Here is my attempt at my 2010 New Year's Resolution. I typically have a few of them (which I do this year), but the first I am undertaking is that I am going to blog one time per week. I keep taking cute pictures of my kids, dogs and other randomness that goes on in our life, but I am simply not taking the time to blog about the goings-on here at My Life With Dogs. I am going to do at least one post per week, probably over the weekend since that's when I have the most "free time". Since this weekend is going to be over in 10 minutes, I figured I better post now. Here are some quick catch-you-ups since I haven't done a decent post in several months.

Peanut: has turned 5, THOROUGHLY enjoyed both her birthday and Christmas, has had her first sleepover, is loving dance class and eagerly awaiting the beginning of her 2nd basketball season, and is now the proud owner of a loose tooth. Is it possible that she's talking about kindergarten? Wasn't she just born?

Swanny JR: is the hell-raiser-in-cheif around here, running, climbing, pushing the stool to climb up and get whatever I've put out of his reach, sitting in the refrigerator whenever it is open and of course, hitting or crossing his arms over his chest when he is mad. His pediatrician summed it up best, "mellow girl, active boy--you're going to notice a significant difference between them!" Um, yes sir, we do.

He is talking like crazy--naming body parts (loves to say butt, and pat his diaper when it is full), naming animals and people in the house. He's trying to do whatever big sis does, but then the boy instincts take over and he's dumping his entire fleet of cars in her princess tent.

(That's right, he climbed right up and stood on one of the tubs of Christmas decorations when they came out!)

Swanny: Survived the holiday season in the retail world (barely). This year was a tough one for us. We seemed to see less of him than usual, he seemed to work far more hours than usual and he was way more stressed than I can remember him being in recent years. He's trying to remain dedicated to running even in this FRIGID weather--although this weekend he gave in and took to a treadmill at the YMCA rather than the frozen streets of Ottawa. As always, he's trying to do what he can to keep me sane...which seems to get harder by the moment these days.

Me: Well, passed my first graduate class and ready to start my second this month. Yoga, work, church and kids keeping me busy. After nearly coming unraveled a few times over Christmas break, I've decided I'm trying to do way too much both professionally and personally and I really need to examine how I'm spending my time. I can't really say I'm allowing myself much time to enjoy the things I am staying busy with let alone getting to do any of them with any feeling of satisfaction. I went to a yoga class this weekend for the first time in over a month and it felt awesome. I'm planning on trying to carve out more time for myself for these things...blogging included. Hence the resolution.

See how tired we both look?? Let's see if we can't treat ourselves a little better here in 2010, huh?

The doggies are doing well. They play and sleep, eat, play and sleep some more. They survived their first stint together at the Kennel while we were visiting family at Christmas and seemed no worse for the wear.

Penny sure enjoyed getting Christmas presents this year, but she wasn't as into them as our big sweetie, Leia used to be. Our Leia passed away one year ago yesterday and I have to say Swanny and I were thinking of her all day.

I need to end here...resolution 2010 underway, I'll need to do more catching up this week to fill in the gaps of the last few months and finally dump all those pictures off of my camera!

Happy New Year everyone!

What a difference 5 years makes

2009-12-23T14:46:00.003-06:00

She was sweet then.

She's still sweet now.

(Photo credits to Rikki--Kudos!)

Happy 5th birthday to my sweet little Peanut.

Details of the 5-year-old sleepover extravaganza to come--the guests arrive in about 2 hours! For those of you on Twitter, Swanny says he's going to "Live tweet" the sleepover. Wish us (me) luck.

Truer words...

2009-12-21T14:04:00.003-06:00

There isn't time to get into the "why hasn't anyone been posting on this blog?" and "where the heck are they?" and the "are Jen and Swanny still alive or have Peanut and Swanny Jr. staged a coup?" questions right now. I'll get into that in a few days.
But for now here is a sweet shot of Peanut and her best church pal Curly Q who were angels in the Church play on Sunday.

While waiting for her cue, Peanut said to Pastor Lisa, "Sometimes it's hard to keep your halo on right."
Some days harder than others Peanut!

Don't "We'll see" me, sir.

2009-11-17T21:51:00.002-06:00

A couple of months ago, Men's Health magazine published a list of things to remember while raising your kids. One of items was the phrase, "We'll see." The magazine reminds us that we hated hearing this from our parents, so we should stop saying it to our kids.

And you know what? They're absolutely right. "We'll see" is a such an easy answer for us to give our kids, but we never stop to think about what a bullshit response it is. Since reading that article, I've been catching myself telling Peanut, "We'll see," all the time.

"Daddy, can I take Snoopy to Miss Rikki's tomorrow?" "We'll see." C'mon Einstein, grow a pair and tell the child yes or no.

"Daddy, can we get Old MacDonald's for dinner tonight?" My inner voice says, I'm sorry, no. We just ate there two weeks ago, and that was too recent for my taste. Instead, I say, "I don't know. We'll see."

I'm not the kind of dad who babies his kids too much. I pretty much tell them how it is, and why, because I figure that I'm doing any favors by treating them like they can't handle what I have to say. So why, in response to these "throwaway" type questions, do I fall into the "We'll see" trap? Is it to avoid a meltdown when we're having a particularly rough morning? Is it because I'm not sure if this is something that's already been discussed with her mom? Is it because I know I can get away with that crap answer? Who knows, maybe it's a bit of all of those things. All I know, is that I feel guilty now whenever I catch myself or Jen saying this to Peanut.

Anybody else running into this? What do you do to avoid stalling your kids with a "We'll see"?

Looks like the dead can still bring the funk.

2009-11-07T22:29:00.003-06:00

Haven't heard of "Here Come the Mummies"? Allow me to jam this ear worm into your head.

Your welcome.

Missing my Fam

2009-10-30T19:23:00.003-05:00

It's a little cold and a lot rainy here in Indianapolis tonight. My soup is warming me up a little, but boy I miss my family. RIght about now, I'm sure that Swanny is wrangling Swanny Jr. into jammies. Peanut has probably gotten her nightgown on (only because Swanny bet her she couldn't get changed before Swanny Jr. donned his pajamas). They'll be cuddling up in Swanny Jr.'s room with a book and then laying the little man down for bed. Swanny and Peanut may adjourn to the couch for some movie time or a game of some kind. Ahhhh, I miss them. The doggies are probably sticking close by too keeping watch and company.
I wish I was there with them to enjoy the oridinary little minutes that add up to make a day. The ones that you find, when you're out of your routine, that you miss so much.

For our blog followers, allow me to explain why I'm out of town and in doing so also give my excuse for being so absent from the blog in recent weeks. I have decided that I am not busy enough and to fill my "free" time, I would like to persue my master's degree. I've enrolled in a GREAT program at the University of Indianapolis that I think will meet all the needs that I have regarding graduate school--the ones that kept me from enrolling in it prior to now. I am this weekend spending the requisite time on campus for my first class. Each class requires one long weekend on campus along with pre and post coursework. It's quite an undertaking to complete the work for a master's level class in about 2 months with only 2 1/2 days of face time with an instructor, but I think it will work out just fine. I've enjoyed my first class so far--despite the fact that it is Research Methodology. Yikes.

Enjoy Halloween tomorrow everyone. I'll be relying on Swanny and Grammy to post lots of pictures of our little spooks! (Thanks by the way Grammy for coming up for Halloween!!).

See everyone on Sunday night!

(Nearly) Wordless Wednesday

2009-10-14T21:16:00.004-05:00

Preschool Pumpkin Patch field trip 2008. Peanut and her best friend HP.

And yesterday...

For the last time, Wal-Mart is NOT a book store.

2009-10-01T21:35:00.004-05:00

An actual conversation I had with a customer on the phone while at work today.

Me: How can I help you?

Customer: Yeah, I'm wondering if you guys have the new Stuart Woods book? I checked at Target and Wal-Mart first, but they didn't have it. I figured I might as well try you guys.

Really?! You figured you'd "try" us? Last? You'd "try" to see if your local BOOK STORE carries the new release by an author whose a big name, but not necessarily popular enough in our area to be schlepped in the local box stores (aka NOT book stores)?

Me (with little to no sarcasm): Yep, we've got it. It's $xx, and we've got it discounted xx%.

Customer (who still doesn't realized her insult): Wow. Well, it's good to know you guys have it. I wonder why Target and Wal-Mart don't have it. Why would they not have it?

What. The. Fuck. Did you really just ask a book store employee why the local non-book stores aren't carrying it?

Me (narrowly avoiding scathing remarks about this person's intelligence): All I can tell you is that they are not book stores, and I don't why they do or don't carry certain things. On the other hand, we ARE a book store and almost always have the latest releases by most authors.

Customer (who, again, doesn't get it): Hmm, yeah I just thought it was weird. Well I may stop by and pick it up.

Me: Great! We'll have a copy here for you. Translated: Drop dead twice!

Tied up in knots

2009-09-19T19:51:00.004-05:00

Is my little girl is really old enough to be doing this?

She tied her shoes by herself today more times than I can count. She'd tie them then untie them just so she could tie them again.

Wow. I'm so proud of you Peanut!

Holiday fun and poor table manners

2009-09-07T19:36:00.006-05:00

It was a busy but fun holiday weekend for the Swanny clan.

We started on Saturday with the drive to my dad's house. The kids (and both of our dogs) played with Grandpa, Grandma Jodi and Jodi's neice and had a ball. Swanny and I celebrated the wedding of a friend of mine from my Rock Island school days. It was a beautiful day and ceremony and the reception was fun--for me. Swanny didn't really know anybody there, but was a good sport while I caught up with some friends. He did enjoy live-tweeting the dance action at the ceremony and the food was delicious, so don't feel too bad for him.

Yesterday, we made a long over-due visit to Peanut's (& Swanny Jr's) GGPA who used to be a loyal reader and commenter on this blog. I think he still lurks every now and then but we don't see or talk to him nearly enough. We had a nice time chatting and catching up. I was able to snap a good shot of GGPA, Swanny and the kids.

We attempted some shopping and a visit to Grammy Pam, but Peanut had reached her breaking point of fatigue and the 4-year-old beast that sleeps somewhere just below the surface emerged in a big way. Thanks Peanut for that tantrum-to-beat-all-tantrums that ruined anyone's shot of getting Whitey's while we were there. My favorite line during her diatribes, "You're not my mom. I don't love you!"

Peanut survived (barely) and we rounded out the weekend with a campfire and s'mores last night and breakfast this morning, once we found a place that was open. (By the way, I have no idea why I didn't take any pictures after the visit to GGPA's house...sorry.)

Needless to say, tonight when Swanny headed off for a few hours of work, I had 2 very tired children on my hands. (The dogs by the way are so tired from running around on my dad's 2 acres and playing with their Golden Retriever, that neither one of them woke up to eat dinner tonight). Early dinner and baths for the kids were top of my agenda this evening.

Apparently, no one told me that Swanny Jr. is on protest from broccoli.

My normally good-mannered little boy who will eat with spoon or hands anything I put before him proceeded to dump the broccoli from his bowl, toss the bowl to the floor and then--no joke, finger paint with his veggies instead.

Big Sis Peanut was eager to show off how a big kid eats broccoli.

Notice the majority of her veggies are gone and NOT on the table or floor surrounding her eating location. She was quite proud to be the role-model on this one. A nice change as I have asked her no fewer than 3 times this weekend either in build up to fit or in the midst of one, to remind me who the baby in our house is and then to think about who at the time was acting like one...

Eventually Swanny Jr. caught the hint and ate most of his veggies. (With generous amounts still landing on the floor).

Hopefully a good night's sleep and a back-to-normal routine tomorrow will help bring our good table manners back!

Finding myself on the road.

2009-08-26T21:24:00.004-05:00

This weekend I read "Ultramarathon Man" by Dean Karnazes. For those of you who aren't familiar with Dean, he's a Super Endurance athlete. That's a fancy way of saying he runs incredible distances (100+ miles), just because. The book chronicles his life and how he found and embraced his passion for running. I thought it was a fascinating book and something in Dean's words struck a chord with me. He writes of being "just an average guy" whose passion, for many different reasons, is running.

When I was in Jr. High, my mom started running. I'm not sure, even to this day, what her motivations were for taking it up; I just know that I got drafted in the running thing as well. I was decent at it. I ran several road races (5k and 10k), a half-marathon, the Bix 7, a few 24-hour runs, and even messed around with a year of Cross Country in high school. Too be perfectly honest, I may have wanted to run with her at one point, but I distinctly remember feeling as though it was expected that I would continue running just because Mom was. The proof of this lies in the fact that I quit running around the time that I moved out of the house.

Whether real or imagined, the pressure to run because my Mom enjoyed it, had soured me on running. I found that I would rather put my efforts into golf, basketball, neighborhood football, and the like. I enjoyed these activities but never was able to excel in them. Running was something that I would come back to off and on for several years, but usually as a means to an end. I needed to drop some weight, I needed to get faster for whatever rec league I played in, or a girl that I was dating or liked was giving running a try.

Reading Dean's book, was kind of eye-opening for me. I've started running a little bit the past month, but again, as a way to supplement gym work for weight loss. Tonight, pumped up from reading "Ultramarathon Man", I went for a run and it clicked. I wasn't just putting in the work, I was running with my heart. I realized that at heart I may be a runner. Basketball, golf, etc, are all fun, but none of them offer the chance for introspection that happened for me tonight. I went 2.2 miles and ran all but about a tenth of a mile. I felt great. There's something soothing about knowing that just putting one foot in front of the other can get you through.

I think that the runner buried somewhere within me is clamoring to get out. I never thought I would say this, but I'm glad that part of me hadn't left for good.

Hold on, you wanna do what?

2009-08-16T21:10:00.006-05:00

This weekend Peanut became a grown-up. At least that's what she keeps telling us. It's something that Jen and Peanut have been kicking around for about six months. This morning, Peanut decided that today was the day.

BEFORE:

There followed much holding still, some squirming, a small yelp, and then...

That's right, those are earrings. My little girl is now the proud owner of pierced ears. That sound you hear is the beating of my heart trying to burst from my chest while I stare down the barrel of the future. Ugh. Isn't there some way to keep them from growing up?

Wordless Wednesday, sort of...

2009-08-12T22:06:00.000-05:00

I'm not paying him until he finishes trimming and edging.

It's all the "Rage"

2009-08-04T21:09:00.002-05:00

Back in June I wrote a post about one of my favorite books of the year, "Rage Against the Meshugenah" by Danny Evans aka Dad Gone Mad. Missed out? You can read that post here. I won't go into all the detail that I did back then, but I still feel that "Rage" is a book that spoke to me in a way that very few books have. Now it's your turn to read it. "Rage" officially hits stores today and, as always, I know where you can pick it up.

I need a vacation now (Idaho Day 5)

2009-08-01T20:55:00.004-05:00

Peanut, red-faced, sweaty and looking completely worn out, rode up to me on her cousin's scooter this evening and said, "Mom, I need a vacation now."

I thought she meant that she needed a vacation from all of the fun, visiting and playing she's been up to on our trip to visit Auntie, her uncle and cousins....no. She and the cousins had all been playing in the neighborhood play house (which is set up as a little food shop) and she meant she needed a vacation from working at the food shop.

Today we played (of course), attended a baptism and following party, played some more and now the big kids are in jammies watching a movie and the little guys are already asleep.

It's been such a fun trip. We're sad to be leaving tomorrow, but are so excited to get to see Swanny and the dogs again.

Here are few snaps from today. Mainly just Jay-Bug, Swanny Jr. and I messing around this morning and a VERY frustrating attempt to get a good shot of all 5 kids together....

We love the crew in Idaho a bunch and can't wait to come back and visit again! (And to have them come stay with us!!)

Friday's Little Dose of Idaho Cute (Idaho Day 4)

2009-07-31T17:39:00.004-05:00

It was fun in the sun for all today at Ross Park.

3 of 5 of the children are now sleeping, one is watching cartoons and one is using the Swiffer in the kitchen.

The moms are eating fudge and blogging.

The fun continues!

Oh, it's a Timberwolf, not the Big Bad Wolf (Idaho Day 3)

2009-07-30T17:59:00.010-05:00

Today we ventured to Rigby, Idaho to visit Yellowstone Bear World. Of course, this was after Peanut and her cousin played a game of Paper, Rock, Scissors. I have no idea what they were trying to decide using this method.

Bear World was pretty darn cool.

You'll have to indulge this picture heavy post, but how often to you get to see (and feed) nature this close up.

We entered Bear World and paid the fee for a "carload". To be fair, we had a carload: 5 children under the age of 8 and 2 adults (under the age of 33).

When you enter the park, you are allowed to drive through as many times as you like. We drove through one time, ate lunch, went through again on the "Curator's Tour", which allows you to ride on the top of an open-air truck and feed the bears, then we took one last drive through. Side note--the gift shop has quite possibly the best fudge I have ever eaten in my life.

When we first entered the park, we glipmsed some mountain goats. Here's one atop the rocks eating--not the best picture. The baby goats, Hansel and Gretel were not visible at the time, but boy were they adoreable.

Then we saw some deer, which I did not photograph because I was busy noting to my sister that the last time I had seen a deer that close it was about to go under my car...flashbacks...
Next we saw 2 bison, named Smth and Weston.

Then we approached the heard of Elk.

The male was ENORMOUS.

They had 2 White Elk in the park--very rare. A mother, Lucy and a son Chalk Taw who are not albino--they have color in their eyes, but whose coats lack pigment. The guide told us that when Lucy was bred there was a one in 2 million chance that she would have an offspring with this same recessive trait. They were gorgeous.

We glimpsed some wolves. We were told they had 2 of these Arctic Wolves and also a Timberwolf. That was when Peanut then made the comment that I used as the title of this blog...her observation cracked us all up.

Then we entered the bear territory.
That's a Grizzly Bear so close I could hear it sneeze.

There were 5 Grizzlies total that we saw. Two siblings that were about 8 years old and a mother. Grandma Grizzly was about 32 years old. She likes to lay by the water and we were told is served breakfast in bed. Her sister was not far from her and she looked just as old and not willing to get up and greet the company tossing food from the truck. Can't say I blame them.

Then there were the Black Bears.

They roamed around us when we drove through and followed the Curator truck as it made its way throught he park. Several would sit up and wave to get food.

There were 4 black bears that the keepers have named the Brat Pack. Although they didn't do it today, we were told that one will come out and stand in front of a keeper truck and block it, while two others will open the tailgate and another will run off with the stuff in the back of the truck. Apparently they are very curious and like to play with all kinds of things....they're crafty those bears.

Next we saw the moose.

His name is Stilts. He was raised as a Foster Moose, orphaned at the age of 3 months. He. Is. Big.

We then were able to see the bear cubs being bottle fed.

They cried and whined while waiting to be fed. I thought they sounded remarkably like Swanny Jr when he is hungry.

Then there was the amusement park.

The big girls tried everything, the boys tried a few things and the poor littlest girl wanted to do everthing (the adventurer), but mom said no to this one.

What a fun day.

Tonight after ice cream both big girls were asking if we could go back the day after the day after this day--can't go tomorrow, we're going to the water park!

I eat like 10 snacks a day! (Idaho Day 2)

2009-07-29T23:10:00.006-05:00

That title has nothing to do with what I'm blogging about, but this is what my nephew said to me tonight after he had his 2nd snack within 40 minutes. I love how honest kids are....he's pretty right on the money with that summary too.

Today we made a visit to the zoo...

After the zoo there was climbing and fun at the tree house followed by lunch and playing in the park. No pictures though....my batteries died just past the bears exhibit.

Refreshed the batteries to get some shots of the kids passing around the puppy--a favorite activity at the house.

Tomorrow, we're off to Yellowstone Bear World!

You're right. That IS G.

2009-07-29T08:16:00.001-05:00

Idaho Day 1

2009-07-28T19:40:00.003-05:00

The cousins are having a ball catching up.

The girls are sticking together....

But so are the "babies".

Notice the conspicuous absence of the oldest cousin

He's just so busy keeping his social calendar....I was able to snap this one to document the windows in his mouth. (Is that kid really old enough to be loosing teeth?!)

The fun continues....

What's going on?

2009-07-23T23:17:00.008-05:00

Swanny and I are so guilty of blog-neglecting this summer. My excuse, I'm working way more than I normally do during the summer. (I hear the collective feeling of pity from those of you who do not get your summers off). I think we're both trying to spend as much time enjoying the kids and the summer on our days off and we just haven't made time for blogging.

So randomly, here are few updates on the kiddos and some of the shenanigans we've been able to get up to during my time off.

Despite the mild temps this summer, we have found bursts of sunshine and periods of heat during which to enjoy the sprinkler and our mini backyard pool.

Swanny Jr. has learned how to climb out of the pool all on his own--the big boy.

Since he can climb out, he figured he may as well climb in too.

He's also decided to generalize this climbing skill to the bathtub, his sister's rocking chair (where I found him standing today) and attempts at getting up on the couch on his own...I think he'd climb up on top of the dog's kennels if he could.

Peanut is getting just too grown up to be allowed.

Just look at her--I remember when......

Now she's traded in the spoon for a float belt and twice weekly swimming lessons that are teaching her the front crawl, knee diving and the all important boat safety.

We have discovered another member of the family who really enjoys the sprinkler, or the hose when I'm watering the garden...she's not picky at all.

I love that you can still see the specks of water on her face in this picture. Penny's lovin' summer for sure!

Swanny Jr. would spend every waking minute outside if it were up to him. He doesn't even care if he hasn't gotten out of his pajamas yet.

Peanut has been practicing her hairstyling skills. I tend to be the one she experiments on. Today, she put nearly every single clip from her hair box on me while I read my newspaper. Here are the pics she took of me when she finished her masterpiece:

Okay, I took that last one and forgive me for not making sure my daughter's hair was swept out of her eyes. When your hair looks as gorgeous as mine did, you don't tend to worry about what everyone else's looks like--Sorry Peanut, but thanks for the glamorous do you gave me.

And finally in recap, yesterday the Swanny clan made its way up to the Shedd for our summer visit to the aquarium.

Peanut is always eager to see Nickel the sea turtle and talked about her non-stop on the way up there. She even took a picture of Nickel from her room to have in the car on the ride up. Though happy to see Nickel, she was also pretty thrilled to see that he Beluga Whales and Dolphins are home once again.

Swanny Jr. pointed at EVERYTHING and seemed to love looking at all of the creatures. He REALLY loved the popcorn snack we had near the end of the visit. The child eats non-stop.

Summer's flying by but I think we're having a pretty good time making the most of it! Next adventure, I head out west with the 2 kids (without Swanny, booo!) to visit the family in Idaho. Can't wait to share those moments!

Peace, War and Oneness

2009-07-20T22:09:00.009-05:00

Indulge me please....it's been a long Monday.

From the Still Speaking Daily Devotional from Sunday July 19th, 2009 of the United Church of Christ (Reflection by Kenneth L. Samuel):

"We are often content to think of peace as a cessation of violence between hostile groups or individuals. But what we call peace is really détente. Détente is not the eradication of hostility or the ultimate end of violence; it is the easing of it, a tenuous cease-fire. Détente is hostility held at bay.
The purpose of God's peace in Christ is far greater than this: it is to completely tear down the barriers that separate us in order to reveal the one true Spirit that created us in diversity and then reconciles us into community. The purpose of God's peace in Christ is not to impose "oneness" upon us. God's peace does not impose oneness, it reveals oneness. It reveals to each of us that we are not only our brother's/sister's keeper; we are our brother's/sister's reflection....

********************************

I admit that I do not always read the devotional that my church delivers to my inbox every day. I happened to read this one on Sunday and it spoke to me. The more I practice yoga, the more I find what I learn in that practice supports much of what my religion teaches. The basic principle of yoga is uniting, mind with body, spirit with action, my spirit with yours, me with the One. I love that this reminds us what peace truly is--not hostility at bay, but reconciliation of difference that brings about connectedness and community. Awareness of the oneness of humanity and spirit.

It's "easy" to think of conflict in a global fashion--Palastine/Israel, Sunni/Shia in Iraq and too many others to name. I think it is so good for us to think of peace and war in a more personal fashion. A yoga teacher I have studied under several times encouraged us to consider our daily lives and become aware of any way that we wage an "interpersonal war" with someone. Continuing conflict that we feel is just, but is really just impairing our judgement, our ability to love and hindering the growth of our person and our spirit. As the devotional says, coming to understand the "oneness" of the human spirit means that we realize that waging a "war" against another, is to wage a war against ourselves.

Often in conflict and in violence we think of it in terms of the "we" and the "they", but really, we are the they. If we had a better awareness of our own thoughts and actions, we would come to know that deep down you and they are really me and we. By injuring the spirit of another, I injure my own. By lifting up the spirit of another, my own is lifted as well.

Personally, I'm finding more awareness just in typing this blog-post about the "war" I am waging with myself (about my abilities as a mother, wife, therapist--you name it) and possibly with other people in my life. Finding love and light within yourself, then within others, then within your "enemy" is only possible when we truly come to understand the oneness of the human spirit. Only then can peace truly be found.

Sounds easy, right?

Wordless Wednesday, with words

2009-07-15T23:30:00.003-05:00

This is, after all, My Life With Dogs--the girls were so tired last night...

My favorite picture from our weekend away...we had a great time.

Swanny Jr. sporting Swanny's new hat. It was cute when he took his (own) hat, threw it in the pool this afternoon, then put it on again, soaking wet. Too funny.

Mags--trying to get some peace from her ever-ready-to-play Boxer sister.

And Peanut, searching for butterflies. I have to admit to neglecting the camera this summer--this pic is old. I promise to be more faithful in snapping our moments...especially since Peanut, Swanny Jr. and I leave for vacation in 12 days!

My kind of town

2009-07-12T21:45:00.010-05:00

If our blog is your only means of keeping abreast of the goings on at the Swanny household, I apologize. It must seem as though we've had a relatively uneventful summer. Behold, truth to the contrary.

This weekend the kids spent Saturday and Sunday at Grandpa Ron's (Jen's dad), while Jen and I headed to Chicago. It was kind of weird having only each other for company, but we had a blast.

Saturday morning, we went to the Museum of Science and Industry to check out the "Harry Potter Exhibition"...

Photography wasn't allowed inside the exhibit, but I got this sweet picture of the flying Ford Anglier(sp?)

The exhibit was really cool. It was packed with lots of props, costumes, and models for the Harry Potter films. From the Hogwarts Express to the Great Hall, they do a great job of blending all the themes of the exhibition, allowing it to flow really easily from beginning to end.

After the museum and a stop at the hotel to rest and change clothes, we headed out to the Magnificent Mile for a little bit of late afternoon shopping.

Early evening found us at Navy Pier for Cirque Shanghai. We were a little unsure as to whether we would enjoy the show. We needn't have been concerned. It was amazing. That's right. The strength and stamina it takes to perform these stunts is just astounding. Check it out.

Then there's this...

And this...

After Cirque, we headed to one of our favorite restaurants, Trattoria No.10. Great food and great drink. If you haven't been, go now. Seriously. NOW.

Sunday found us making our way to Forest Park for the book launch party for J.A. Konrath's latest "Jack Daniels" book, "CHERRY BOMB". While there we also got to meet and chat with thriller writer Henry Perez and humor/horror writer Jeff Strand. All good guys who've written great books.

Even though we had a really fun weekend, it was great to come home this evening to the dogs and the kids. The kids are now fast asleep, exhausted from their exploits with grandpa, and Jen and I are pleasantly tired after a great couple of days on our own.

Next time, more fun photos from the 4th, the zoo and other assorted nonsense.

Let Freedom Ring

2009-07-04T23:16:00.003-05:00

It's taken me a long time to really appreciate July 4th for what it is: the celebration of the evolution of freedom as we know it in this country. This struck me as I had to explain to Peanut what Independence Day was all about this week when she told me that we celebrate July 4th because of the fireworks....nope, I had to tell her, we have the fireworks because of July 4th. I did my best to explain to her about the Declaration of Independence and how our country was "born," ensuring her that we really do get along with England despite our differences back then. She compared the Declaration of Independence to when she grows up, leaves for college and is finally "the boss of her" to use her own words. Yes, I told her, that will be something like your declaration of independenced (although in the back of my mind I was thinking that that declaration will come far sooner than age-18-and-off-to-college with this particular child).

Indulge me in a rare divergence from mommy-blogging to explore my revelations about Independence Day a little more....

Familiar words from the Declaration of Independence:

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, — That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness

I think it does us all well to remember these words, put to paper so many years ago in circumstances so different from today, yet whose meaning is still so relevant.

On this independence day, I am aware of my liberties: my power of choice regarding what kind of job I will have, where I will live, how my chldren will be raised, the books I read, the company I keep. Too often, I take this for granted.

I am aware of the happiness that I am able to seek simply becuase I am fortunate enough to live where I live.

I am aware of what the freedom my family and I enjoy has cost--cost United States soldiers and their families as well as so many unnamed faces, families and cultures abroad.

In remembering the many, many individuals who have dedicated themselves over the course of the last 200+ years to serving this country as leaders, as soldiers, as activists, as politicians and as private citizens, I remember that patriotism comes in all shapes and sizes.

Too often in past years those who question our government are told they are unpatriotic. I would argue that the most patriotic thing you can do is to question those who lead you. That in demanding that they be accountable to their decisions and have solid answers for their actions we are merely ensuring those in charge are responsible in exercising their power over freedom and liberty.

Where would this country be if that brave congress made up of ordinary citizens inspired to help shape a new tomorrow had not questioned the actions of their government 233 years ago? Their actions should spur us on to reflect on freedom and liberty....

Honor your freedom by helping someone else attain more of it, but not at the cost of someone else's.
Acknowledge your liberty by exercising it wisely--don't waste it--make the most of the opportunities you are fortunate to have in your life, simply because you are a citizen of the United States of America.

I think Independence Day will always have a little more meaning to me now--it will be a day to reflect on how I am using my liberty and freedom to not only pursue my own happiness, but how am I helping others do the same?

Thanks for indulging me....mommy-blogging hat back in place!

My New Favorite Picture

2009-07-03T23:37:00.002-05:00

2 tired children headed home from the zoo. Swanny Jr. fell fast asleep in Big Sister's arms.

Precious.

Full post with updates on the happenings around here at My Life With Dogs to follow soon!

Starting with the Man in the Mirror

2009-06-25T21:52:00.004-05:00

Tributes to Daddy

2009-06-20T23:27:00.007-05:00

From Swanny Jr. to his Daddy on Father's Day:

Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, right?

Here is Swanny Jr acting like his Daddy last week:

mowing the lawn

and picking out a Superman flick to watch.

Peanut gave an interview about her Daddy:

Tell me about your Daddy?

He is nice and I like to play with him.

What make him special?

Well, I love him. Our doggies love him. And Adam loves him.

What do you like to do with your Daddy?

Play games, and play hide and seek and chase and tag with him.

If you could give him anything at all, what would you give Daddy for Father's Day?

I would give him 2 presents: A new pair of binoculars and a new blanket. And he would love them forever.

What do you want to say to Daddy on Father's Day?

(sung to the tune of Happy Birthday--with harmonica accompaniment)

Happy father's day to you....Happy father's day to you....Happy father's day dear daddy.....Happy father's day to you!

Happy father's day Swanny. Our family is lucky to have you in it!!

Just another day in the Swanny House

2009-06-20T22:36:00.006-05:00

SWANNY JR: We've known that Swanny Jr. loves his peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. He decided today that he would love his sandwich even more if he wiped his PB&J'd up hands all through his hair. He'd do it and laugh and look at me with the darn sweetest face too. It took 3 wipe downs with paper towels, wipes and washcloths to get all of the peanut butter off of him. Hiding places included his hair, behind his ear, his eyelashes and between EVERY. FINGER. ON. HIS. HANDS. He smelled of peanut butter all day long--good thing none of us are allergic, we would have been in anaphylactic shock just taking a whiff of him. Despite my cleaning efforts, he looked all day as though he were sporting the world's best hair product--his hair sure had plenty of body!

He proceeded to do the same thing this evening with his turkey and rice couscous and carrots...again with the same smile and laugh. It was only slightly less cute this time.

PEANUT: It was naptime and Peanut was living up her last 15 minutes before story and bed by playing dress up in her room while I put Swanny Jr. down for his afternoon nap. I see a flash of fairy wings and hear the click-clack of high heels in the bathroom. I hear nothing for a minute or so and figure Peanut is taking care of business--then I hear the rustling, the clink and more rustling. I quietly call to her to find out if she's OK (with a drifting Swanny Jr. cradled in my arms). She shuffles out of the bathroom with a roll of toilet paper in one hand and the toilet paper holder, tries to explain what happened, and finally just ends up saying, "I have no idea how to fix this." Did I mention, she looked JUST like this:

only change out the wand for the aforementioned toilet paper and add underpants around the ankles.

My kids crack me up.

Ewww, now it smells like wet dog in here.

2009-06-17T22:23:00.006-05:00

I love when I have a day off that as great as this. Hanging out with Jen and the kids, taking the dogs with us to the park, and coming home to the sprinkler. Good times...

Now, it should be noted that Leia hated the sprinklers. I've never met a dog who disliked being wet as much as Leia. Penny, on the other hand, LOVES the sprinker. Should make for a fun summer.

We tried to have Swanny Jr. get into the sprinkler as well, but he wasn't digging the cold water just yet. Instead, he opted to play in the dirt and grass the was catching some of the spray from the sprinkler. He didn't seem to mind getting dirty, but unfortunately, he looks like a shit bomb went off in his diaper.

As dinner time approached, Jen snagged some towels so we could get the kids cleaned up and dried off. Penny had a different plan.

Pressure?! What do you know about pressure?!

2009-06-14T22:38:00.002-05:00

J.A. Konrath has recommended several books to me in the past, but none sounded as intriguing as Jeff Strand’s PRESSURE. When I told Joe that I’d picked up a copy and was getting ready to start it he said, “When you’re done reading it, you’ll want to hug your family.” He was right.

PRESSURE follows a young boy named Alex, who at around 12 years old, while trying to impress some kids from school, is busted for a small crime and sent to boarding school. It is here that he befriends a boy named Darren. Alex knows that there is something odd about Darren, but he doesn’t realize that Darren is murderously insane. Their lives are closely interwoven through college and when Darren says he wants Alex to join him in his bloodlust, Alex wants nothing to do with it. There’s just one problem: Darren won’t take “No” for an answer.

Strand has written a book that you can’t put down. As the tension mounts, you find yourself turning page after page, because you have to know what terrible thing is going to happen next. Once you reach that event, it’s like a release valve being opened because you’re there, you know what’s going on. But then you realize that it’s only a setup to the next catastrophic event. Fortunately, Alex’s narrative has a bit of a smart-ass tone, so there’s a sense of relief from the… ahem… pressure.

PRESSURE is a dark look at the different types of pressures we all face: family, success, dating, popularity, and whether or not you can stand up to/for your friends.

I flew through this book, and have been recommending it like crazy. If you like suspense thrillers, this is one of the best I’ve read in a while. Disturbing, chilling, scary, intense. Pick it up now and find out for yourself.

So that's how you spell "meshugenah"

2009-06-10T22:53:00.002-05:00

Being a bookseller has its advantages. I’ve been fortunate enough to meet and become friends with a few authors who are willing to send ARCs (advanced reading copies) of their books to my house so that I can read and review them well in advance of their release dates. As it turns out, being a blogger is pretty cool too.

One of my favorite blogs is Danny Evans’ Dad Gone Mad. Danny is the kind of blogger/writer I wanted to be: funny, crude, smart, and funny. As hell. His post “10 Minutes and a Cloud of Smoke” was the first I had read. I’ve been a fan ever since.

Last year, when Swanny Jr. was born, I was thrilled to discover that Uncle Danny had commented on my post detailing the little man’s birth. He’d reached out to little ol’ us and it was a great touch to an already fantastic day.

About a month ago, I commented on one of DGM’s posts regarding his forthcoming book. Figuring there was no way in hell I’d get my hands on it (but it doesn’t hurt to ask), I stated that I was a bookseller, I wanted to read the book, and I thought I could sell a bunch of it in my store. After a couple of emails back on forth, I had “Rage Against the Meshugenah” in my hot little hands. Very cool.

“Rage” is Danny’s memoir about his descent into the depths of clinical depression. It’s brutally honest, absolutely heartbreaking, and often hilarious. More importantly, it sheds a much needed light on the topic of clinical depression in men. A topic near and dear to my heart.

Given the taboo nature of depression (especially in men), it’s something that few people will/can admit to. Too many people suffer from it and not enough get the help they need. Sadly, depression and anxiety both seem to run in my family. Kind of like the Skywalkers and the Force. Different family members have dealt with it in different ways. Some healthy, some not, some not at all.

While reading Danny’s book, I found myself examining my life and I was surprised with how much this book spoke to me. I knew that I would like the book, but I didn’t realize how much I would identify with it. Thankfully, I’ve not had to overcome a near crippling depression like Danny, but I can tell that there have been times in my life when that tag team of Depression and Anxiety have been crouched, ready to drag me down. (to the people who knew me in high school, I’m sorry)

With such on important topic, the best thing that could happen with this book, would be for everybody to read it and realize that depression is not just a way for people to hide from reality. It’s a brutal disease that has not gotten the attention it deserves.

Of course, the second best thing would be that Danny makes seven figures in sales. It comes out in July and I know where you’ll be able to buy a few copies.

8 years and counting

2009-06-09T15:13:00.003-05:00

Loved you once

Love you still

Always have

Always will

Happy anniversary Swanny.

I love you!

xoxo

Battle Wounds

2009-06-03T21:51:00.004-05:00

I call these

the price of ambulation.

Swanny Jr. has become a full-fledged walker. Of course it comes with the cost of bumps, scrapes and bruises but he's so pleased with himself. He moves so fast it's like he's already trying to run, at least when food or a basketball are involved!

Long Time Gone

2009-05-27T22:13:00.009-05:00

So, in effort to get myself beyond the guilt of not dutifully documenting our children's milestones this past week, you'll have to indulge me in a lengthy catch up post.

First things first, I have to honor the birthday boy, Swanny Jr.--the big one year old.

To my dear sweet little boy, HAPPY BIRTHDAY. Your mommy has so enjoyed watching you grow and change this year. I love that you wake up with a smile, you fall asleep snuggling, and you're just a little ball of laughs all day long. Your personality has started to emerge, fun loving like your daddy, but quick tempered like mommy, what a combo! So, to a handsome and cuddly little guy, Happy Birthday. I love you sir.

On his birthday, we took Swanny Jr (and Peanut of course) out for pizza, then dove into some present opening fun.

The Superman Shake & Go car was by far his favorite gift.

**********

Peanut has been a dancing queen day and night it seems.

It started with technical rehearsal a week ago Saturday, then dress rehearsal last monday and then recitals Friday, Saturday and Sunday. What a performance it was.

Peanut and her friends did the best interpretation of the Old Woman in the Shoe you'll ever see, complete with somersaults, cartwheels, and plies. She smiled big and took her bow proudly, then skipped off stage waving to us....it was precious.

I don't know if she was more excited about dancing on stage or the lipstick and french braids she sported for 3 days straight.

Now 3 months break from dance, then she'll jump back in to weekly lessons again.

*********

Swanny Jr. has gotten his first hair cut. I noticed a few weeks ago just how much the wind was blowing his hair and thought to myself, should a boy's hair be long enough to move that much in the breeze? Then I started noticing how much it looked like he had a baby comb-over. It had to go. Swanny took the little man on his birthday to have his locks trimmed up.

Baby boy before:

Little boy after:

**********

Peanut also had pre-school graduation last week. True, she has one more year of preschool before kindergarten, but all of the pre-school classes participated by singing songs for all of the proud parents.

Peanut's class (including her best-bud H.P.) sang quite a tune about going fishing on a bright and sunny day where the fishies have their hands in their pockets and their pockets in their pants....it was a hoot.

Here is the proud pre-schooler herself.

***********

Then there was Swanny Jr.'s birthday party, which directly followed Peanut's final dance recital Sunday. It was a fun out-doors celebration complete with present opening

butterfly catching

and cake

Boy did he love that cake.

He licked the plate when he was done then put the plate on top of his head.

As all of these big events have gone by at the speed of light, I've been trying to tap into my inner yogi, the one that tells me to live in the moment, be present with yourself and others and enjoy things as they unfold instead of worrying about what's coming next. I have tried to take time to reflect and be grateful that I have a beautiful family with whom I can enjoy all of these little firsts. And while part of me is sad as the "firsts" are over, another part of me remembers that the next new adventure is just waiting for us.

One (not the U2 song)

2009-05-21T23:06:00.006-05:00

A year ago, Swanny Jr. came into our lives...

Weighing in at 9lbs, 9oz, he was a bit more than a little bundle of joy. A couple days after being born, he made himself right at home.

We've suffered ear infections and the river of drool that accompanied his first two teeth. We've laughed at his sense of humor and at his temper. We've watched him roll, then crawl, then stand, then cruise. Walking isn't far off, and nothing will be safe anymore.

Happy Birthday Swanny Jr. The past year has been a blast. It seems like it'll be forever until you're two; when that day comes, I'll be wondering where this year went. Hopefully, we'll all be able to enjoy it as it happens.

Teaser

2009-05-19T21:35:00.003-05:00

What a busy week. Between rehearsals, graduations, birthdays, recitals, garden blessings and board meetings, I feel like my family's life is a whirlwind this week. Here's a teaser to get you ready for this weekend.

Peanut will be starring in her first dance recital Friday and Saturday nights as well as Sunday afternoon. Here are some shots from rehearsals.

Having seen these girls in action, I can't wait for the recital! They'll be too cute. Hopefully they won't upstage Swanny Jr.'s First Birthday Party too much on Sunday!

Free books! That's right, FREE books!

2009-05-12T21:43:00.002-05:00

A couple months ago, author J.A. Konrath stopped by for an interview during the run-up to the release of his book AFRAID, written under the name Jack Kilborn. I won't rehash it in this post, but I encourage you to check it out here.

AFRAID is, hands down, one of the creepiest books I've read in a very long time. Even though it's not for the squeamish, I've recommended and sold it to lots of people. Most folks have told me that they finished it in one sitting and loved it. Get this book as soon as you can.

That said, yesterday I was contacted by someone from Hachette Book Group, the publisher of AFRAID. They've been kind enough to give me a chance to share Jack Kilborn's work with our readers.

Here's your chance to get a FREE ebook of a Jack Kilborn novella called SERIAL. Written with thriller writer Blake Crouch, SERIAL is a terrifying tale of hitchhiking gone terribly wrong. Like a deeply twisted version of an “After School Special,” it is the single most persuasive public service announcement on the hazards of free car rides. And it's FREE. There's also a Q & A with both authors, author bibliographies, and excerpts from their most recent and forthcoming works: Kilborn’s AFRAID and Crouch’s ABANDON. And it's FREE. Click HERE to get your copy (the FREE ebook is down in the lower right hand corner). Go ahead, I'll wait.

Everybody back? Great. Hachette has also given me the opportunity to give away 5 copies of AFRAID to readers who are interested. If you'd like a copy, email me at mylifewithdogs@hotmail.com and we'll set something up. If I get more than five requests, I'll write down everybody's names and I'll have Jen draw five names at random.

Let the scares begin.

The fixer-upper

2009-05-11T22:50:00.003-05:00

The sun is shining a bit more these days. The temperature is climbing and flowers and trees are blooming. Spring is here. Time to get gardens planted and houses cleaned. Time also to jump back into some sort of fitness routine.

I haven't been to the gym since before I joined the snip-snip mafia, and my eating habits have basically gone to hell. Depression over my condition has set in and I've HAD it. See, my problem is that I feel shitty about the way I feel and the crap I eat, but the way I deal with that is by eating for of the garbage that makes me feel lousy. It's a vicious circle that just goes round and round.

Which is why they call it a circle.

So, no more. No more excuses for not going to the gym. No more excuses for not taking walks as a family, or for going running with the dogs. No more excuses for how convenient the drive-thru is. Time to dig deep and show some discipline. After I show this bag of Oreos who's boss.

What the hell?

2009-05-10T20:28:00.002-05:00

Jen was moving quickly to capture the picture, so it's a bit blurry. If I blow it up any larger than this, it loses most of it's resolution. What you're seeing is a picture of Penny, shortly after we've cleared the dinner table, standing... um... on the table. I rounded the corner coming out of the kitchen, and there she was.

Hilarious.

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T06:37:00.003-05:00

She changes diapers, makes more dinners and lunches than I can keep track of, finds ways to keep us all moving, and she's the glue that holds our family together. I don't tell her as often as I should, how much I appreciate everything she does for me and the kids. Happy Mother's Day Jen!

Go Cubs Go

2009-05-07T22:38:00.008-05:00

As some of you may remember, I took part in an event in March called the Polar Plunge. A team was organized by some folks I work with and we raised a crazy amount of money to jump into a very cold lake the first weekend of March. The funds we raised benefited Special Olympics Illinois. We raised about $20,000.00 (you can pick your jaw up off of the floor), which was the most raised by a team in the state. Our team was so happy to partake in this event and support the athletes who participate in Special Olympics.

Our team was thrilled when we also found out that we had won a trip to Beyond the Ivy, a business offering viewing of a Cubs game from roof top bleachers complete with food and drink and merriment. As every member of our team is a teacher, aide or therapist in the schools, you can imagine how, at this time of year we were all needing a little stress-reliever and getaway.

The Party Bus departed on Sunday morning. The bus ride was a riot. Beer, mimosas, bloody marys and marinated cherries flowed freely (especially after the jar of cherries was spilled and they along with their "juice" ran along the main aisle).

We enjoyed pre-game festivities and drinks at Murphy's....

then made our way to the rooftop of 1010 Waveland.

The place was beautiful. The view was good. The company was a hoot. The beer and food was free. Yay!

And just a side note, I take self-portraits with people when cameras and beer are around.

It was such a fun time. Just what I needed to get through the last few weeks of school with these fine ladies. We're looking forward to plunging again next year for Special Olympics and maybe having another fun field trip together!

With a name like Smuckers...

2009-05-03T22:36:00.004-05:00

I'm sure Jen will post about it later, but she this is what she was doing today...

So while she was there, doing that, I was hanging out with Peanut and Swanny Jr. We had some fun today, but for me the highlight was letting Peanut make her first peanut butter and jelly sandwich all by herself. Don't worry, I was right there in case she decided to reenact the knife fight from "Beat It".

Speaking the Truth

2009-05-02T23:43:00.004-05:00

I know you'll be shocked at how wild a Saturday night I had but here's the scene: Peanut, Swanny Jr and I are at HyVee. Ah, welcome to your 30's Jen...Saturday nights at the grocery store with 2 children. Anyway, we were in need of groceries in a big way, but also in need of dinner. We decide to eat at the deli then get our groceries. As is typical for our ventures out to stores, none of our action began at HyVee until we took a little potty break.

We headed into the largest stall and Peanut took care of business first, then my turn. Here is the conversation that took place.

Peanut: (as I sit) Mommy, your butt is so big...
Me: (interrupting her) Peanut, that's not a very nice thing to say
Peanut: (without missing a beat) Your butt is so medium that you don't even need to use your hands to keep yourself up on the potty!
Me: (unable to deny the truth and secretly thinking she had it right in the first place) I guess you're right Peanut.

If anyone had been in the stall next to us, I'm sure they would have snorted in laughter...

Remembering Tom

2009-04-30T22:20:00.004-05:00

The last funeral I attended was my Grandmother's, which was nearly 4 years ago. I remember at her visitation and funeral that for the first time when mourning a person who was no longer physically with me, I also truly felt that I was celebrating a person's life.

Today I attended the funeral of a person whom I had known for a relatively short period of time. Thomas Glenn Gorgas was a person who attended a book club that was started by some folks at our church. I initially started going to book club because I had made a new year's resolution to read one non-work-related book per month and I figured this was a good way to keep that resolution. Soon, for me, it evolved into one night a month where I could have some mommy-time-out-of-the-house with a fun group of folks to eat good food, enjoy each other's company and discuss books. Tom, his mom and occasionally his sisters joined our group after a while. I came to enjoy Tom's company as well as his insights and suggestions on books.

Tom was born with a neurological defect called Arteriovenous Malformation and last week on Thursday, it took his life. Tom was 26 years old, had earned a degree in creative writing from Knox College and had touched the lives of many. Today at his funeral I mourned that Tom and I would never have another conversation or share another good read. I looked at his family and could not imagine the grief his 2 sisters felt....I have a sibling, I can't imagine if I lost her. I couldn't fathom what his mother must be feeling....I have a little boy, the agony it must be to have to bury your son.

In looking around at the sad faces in the church, the words of the pastor reached me...that Jesus in conquering death, won that battle for us too. I was reminded that Tom, who faced many challenges in his life, no longer felt the pain or discomfort he lived with for so long. I especially liked when it was noted that as families gather in times like these, they can't help but notice that their family has gotten smaller...but what is comforting is to realize that the family waiting for us has gotten larger.

Today I mourned Tom's passing. I tried the best one can to share the grief of his loving family and friends who had known him longer than I. I took comfort in knowing that Tom's struggles are now over, that he now knows eternal peace. I celebrated his life and gave thanks that his path crossed mine albeit for a short period of time. I give thanks for his life and pray for the comfort of his loved ones. I'll never pick up a book-club selection again without warmly remembering Tom Gorgas.

I thank God every time I remember you. Philippians 1:3

Getting caught up.

2009-04-30T11:02:00.004-05:00

I know it's been awhile since I've posted, and last week's single photo post of Penny was kind of a cop-out. I apologize to everyone who checks in with us. I just haven't been feeling it lately. Between craziness with Jen's work schedule, lots of things going on at work for me, a new dog who's requiring time and attention to train and thoroughly house-break, both kids doing new things on an almost daily basis, I've been a bit preoccupied.

That said, let's get caught up shall we?

Penny joined our family on Monday April 13th. She's been a breath of fresh air in a house that was missing the presence of a boisterous Boxer. She's mostly made friends with Maggie and the sight of them playing, racing and mouthing each other is a bit unusual. Mainly, because if either Maggie or Leia tried to start playing, it became a fight-starter. Having a couple of pups who can get along and play is a beautiful thing.

Peanut loves Penny. That first night she said, "Penny, you can sleep in my bed tonight if you want." WOW. As much as she loved Leia and loves Maggie, if either of them tried getting on Peanut's bed, she'd have a fit. We haven't had a night where Penny has actually slept in there, but I have a feeling it won't be far down the road.

Swanny Jr. is still warming up to the new pup. He's not quite sure whether he loves her or finds her to be a source of constant irritation. A couple days after Penny came home, I was in the kitchen when I heard a "mwaa, mwaa, mwaa," coming from the living room. When I looked in, I found Swanny Jr. sitting on the floor trying to push Penny's head away to stop her from licking his face. He usually crawls over to her and pats her head or belly, but it can quickly turn into him baby-slapping her if we're not keeping an eye out. Thankfully, boxers are very tolerant dogs.

In other news, if anyone has seen our sweet, easy-going, laughing little Peanut, could you bring her back to us? The whiny, intolerant, sassy, at times belligerent little Peanut who's staying with us right now has worn out her welcome. Man oh man, the dominant four year old has reared it's ugly head. Let's see what's been happening here:

1 second attention span? Check.

Hair-trigger temper? Check.

Whiny, worse-than-fingernails-on-a-chalkboard, voice? Check.

Pouting scowl that'll melt your face? Check.

For the last week and a half or so, Jen and I have been battling Peanut's inner four-year-old. Maybe you know how it goes; everything seems to be a battle of wills, her ability to attend to tasks has been drastically reduced, we have to repeat ourselves upwards of 3, 4, 5 times.

I love that little girl and I'd do anything for her, but I'm tired of fighting with her. I'm sure it's a phase and that once summer break comes and things calm down in all our lives, she'll start to level out. Please let that be so.

Swanny Jr. is cruising around on everything. He's also starting to stand unsupported and I'm sure we'll be seeing him walking sometime soon. As a public service, we'll let you know when it happens so you plenty of time to lock up your valuables. Nothing will be safe.

So that's our life lately. I'm sure I've left some things out in my haste to post before work, but Jen'll be along to post about anything I've forgotten. From now on, I'll try to be more diligent in staying up to date.

Until next time...

Wordless Wednesday... except that it's Thursday.

2009-04-23T22:13:00.003-05:00

A New Chapter in My Life With Dogs

2009-04-13T15:26:00.006-05:00

I received a call last Thursday from Julie, my fellow yoga teacher and occasional commenter/frequent lurker/loyal reader of this blog. She was calling to tell me that some people her family knows found a boxer puppy and wanted to know if they were unable to locate the puppy's home, would Swanny & I be interested in taking her.

It's been just over 3 months since we lost our big sweetie Leia. I know that I think of her just about every day for one reason or another. More often than not it's because Swanny Jr. is frantically chasing a ball around the house. Swanny swears that a little bit of Leia stuck around in Swanny Jr. as his affinity for any ball has grown so much in the past months...nothing made Leia happier than a ball.

Anyway, when I got Julie's call, my gut reaction without thought, deliberation or weighing out of consequences was yes--we would be interested. I called Swanny to check with him and his response was pretty much the same.

It turns out that the puppy may have already found a home, but it got us thinking we just might be ready for another doggy in our house. Well, that night Swanny looked on Pet Finder and discovered a 1 1/2 year old Boxer named Blaze who was at the Animal Control Shelter in Grundy County. Blaze was as Pet Finder explained, a "victim of the economy" whose family couldn't afford to keep him. We called about Blaze on Friday. Animal Control in Grundy County was closed for the holiday weekend.

Swanny and I talked about the dog off and on all weekend. We liked the idea of a slightly older puppy, since it's not yet summer break and I'm working instead of home during the day when I could work with a puppy. As we talked, I realized, I really am ready for another Boxer in my life.

When he called again this morning, Animal Control told him they had had a lot of interest in Blaze over the weekend. Swanny headed over to the Animal Control Shelter today and met not just one but two Boxers looking for homes.

He came home with this:

Her name is Penelope. We'll only be calling her that when she's in trouble though--it's Penny. Penny, who is sleeping next to me as I type this, is about as sweet as she can be. She follows Swanny around the house non-stop. (Just what we need, another Daddy's girl....Peanut has competition!) She is responding to her name and some basic commands. Penny is already potty-trained and has been running and jumping in the back yard. She's already cried in her kennel, had a bath and her nails trimmed. She's tried to jump the gate we put across the stairs and she's discovered the dog-toy-box. Maggie is holding up pretty well. She went with Swanny to meet her before he brought her home, just to make sure there were not issues between the two of them. I think Maggie will enjoy having another dog to keep her company.

Surely, there will be more photos and video to follow of the latest addition to My Life With Dogs. I especially look forward to the looks on Peanut's and Swanny Jr's faces in a little while when they come home from Rikki's house!

Is Anybody Listening?

2009-04-04T20:35:00.004-05:00

The Superintendent of one of the school districts that I service has started a blog. He's a pretty proactive person and is doing all he can to utilize technology to allow the parents, public and his staff to understand the workings of his district. This includes a blog, video streaming school board meetings and making his "note from the superintendent" available via podcast. He's a good administrator and I have come to appreciate what he does for the district I service.

Like most everything else in the world, education is not untouched by the current economic situation. In a blog recently, said superintendent referenced a 20/20 piece that commented on the effect of the struggling economy on children. I found it to be quite a moving piece myself. I know you're busy, but take time to follow the link to the video. It's about 9 minutes long (after a 30 second commercial), but worth it. I have to say, I love the role our President plays in this. I actually cried at that part of the video.

I personally know how the financial climate effects my family and to some extent effects some in my community. This piece has made me think differently about my kids at school might be going home to and what's really going on in the trenches of this country.

Over-heard at Church Tonight...

2009-04-01T22:19:00.003-05:00

The Scene: Peanut playing in the nursery at Church, "patiently" waiting for prayer and supper before the Taize service for lent.

One of the women from our church enters the nursery with her baby, Mr. C. who is about 6 weeks younger than Swanny Jr.

Peanut's best-church-friend, Curly Q, who is within a month of the same age as her, walks in and sees Peanut and Mr. C.

She then asks Peanut:
"Is that your brother in disguise?"

We all had a good laugh about that one.

Mizzou-rah!

2009-03-28T15:41:00.003-05:00

The Tigers are taking on U-Conn right now hoping to earn a place in the NCAA Tournament Final Four.

Swanny Jr. has been practicing his ball handling skills.

He and I are cheering them on. (Peanut would be too, but she decided to take a nap today)

Go Mizzou!

Taking one for the team

2009-03-20T21:17:00.006-05:00

When I Jen and I got married, our vows implied that I wouldn't let another woman see, fondle, or even acknowledge my... (ahem)... man area. Today, that promise went right out the window. Twice.

In the almost ten months since Swanny Jr. was born, Jen and I have reached the realization that we liked our family just the way it is. A third child would mean some drastic changes in our lives; we'd have to move to a bigger house, I'd have to get a second job (which is only fair, since Jen already works two and a half) to make the bills, and we'd have to start playing the lottery (or robbing banks) to pay for college and weddings.

With all this in mind, after some serious discussions, I stepped up. That's right I offered to undergo minor surgery to prevent any further Swanny off-spring (that's the sound of the universe breathing a sigh of relief).

Well, today was the big day. At 9:30 this morning, with Jen along to drive me back home, I checked in at the front desk of my friendly neighborhood urologist. After an anxious ten minutes in the waiting room, one of the nurses called my name and escorted me back to the little room with the sharp instruments and the cauterizing tool. Thankfully, the instrument tray was covered, but I didn't like the look of the of the bed/table with the super absorbent pad. How much blood is there going to be? I thought.

Once inside, the nurse said, "You need to get undressed, slip the gown on with the opening to the back, sit on the pad, cover yourself with the sheet, and I'll be back to prep you. Oh, you can leave your socks on if you want." Which causes another anxiety attack, because I don't know which is worse: suffering the indignity of being completely bare under a hospital gown while people are examining your junk, or trying but failing to save some dignity by leaving your socks on.

So she leaves and I get the gown on, foregoing the obvious joke of putting it on backwards. I have a seat on the pad (seriously, how much blood are they expecting?) and wait for the nurse to come back. When she does, I'm told to lie back on the table, and she grabs a razor to give me a pre-op grooming touch-up. It's certainly the first time I've ever willingly let someone near my nether region with a razor.

After a quick swipe or two with the razor, the nurse tells me the doctor will be in shortly and she leaves me to wait with a warm, wet washcloth covering my goods. Let me tell you, it's not the most comfortable position to be in, lying there, waiting while you're naked and damp. Although, while I was lying there, it gave me a chance to study the diploma on the wall that my doctor had received from some school in, I'm not kidding, Guadelajara, Mexico. Ordinarily, I don't care what school doctors go to, but ordinarily I'm not two minutes away from having my groin sliced open by said doctor.

Anyway, when Doctor S. finally came in, he had a different nurse with him who would assist with the procedure. It began with Doctor S. tugging and pulling on my man-bag while he tried to locate my vas deferens. While not painful, it's definitely the most uncomfortable sensation I've had. After a few seconds of what can only be described as vigorous kneading, he told me that he was going to apply the anesthetic. "You'll feel a tiny pinch," he said as he started to inject the novacaine.

Of course, I turn to humor to deal with stress and said, "I'm just glad you didn't say 'prick'." Maybe making bad puns while the doctor's jabbing a needle into my scrotum wasn't the best idea. But that's me, Mr. Doesn't Know When to Shut Up.

So, he's numbed me up on both sides and starts the procedure. Because I was lying back on the table, I couldn't see what was happening, but I could feel the tugging as he was moving the vas deferens around, and tying them off. I could hear the slice of the scalpel, and I could hear and smell when he was using the cauterizer. I think that's the longest I've held still, clutching my hands together, squeezing them, waiting for the pain.

It never came. There were a couple of moments when the vague pressure seemed to intensify, but he numbed me up a little more and I got through it. The actual procedure took maybe ten minutes and all in all, it wasn't the worst thing I've ever gone through. With two kids at home, I've taken kicks to the groin that have been more painful. However, knowing the numbness would eventually wear off, I was glad to leave with a prescription for vicodin and orders to rest for a couple of days.

The resting is easy to do, after all, it's tournament time. The hardest part is the temporary change in underwear. I've been a boxer guy for all of my adult life, and making the switch to snug-fitting briefs while I heal up, is making me feel like I'm 10 years old again. But if that's the worst I have to deal with while I'm waiting for my stitches to disolve, things should be okay. Besides, I'm now an official member of the Snip-Snip Mafia.

It's the most wonderful time of the year

2009-03-19T22:01:00.001-05:00

It's the NCAA tournament! YAY!

No need to adjust your screen...

2009-03-17T22:40:00.006-05:00

You're seeing this image correctly...

This is a nearly ten month old baby boy trying to climb into the bathtub on his own.

That kid loves himself some bath time! He RACES from his room into the bathroom to pull up to stand at the tub. He loves to watch the tub fill, the toys float and as you can see is already trying to get in without mom.

Remember when bath time was playtime not just a daily routine thing you went through before starting your day or ending it? Here's hoping you can find a little more play in your ho-hum daily routine.

Thawed Out

2009-03-13T23:10:00.007-05:00

My apologies to those of you who have been wondering if I got frozen in Loon Lake over the weekend or if I was able to wade in, and then out again a frozen Jen-sicle. Here are the details of the Plunge...

The Polar Plunge did indeed take place on Sunday March 8th at Silver Springs State Park in Yorkville, IL. It was one of 17 sites in Illinois where teams met who had raised money to donate to Special Olympics Illinois and in exchange plunged in to the freezing cold (and in the case of some plunge sites--icy) water. Our plunge was the second to last to take place this year, with the last taking place this weekend.

We parked off-site and were bussed to the lake. As I stepped off of the bus and glimpsed the lake I vaguely registered with relief that there was no ice in the vicinity of the plunge site, but felt my breath catch as I realized that yikes, that was a big, deep lake...and hey it's like 40 degrees out here.

It was rainy, muddy, messy, and cold. The tent in which the pre and post festivities took place had heaters going and plenty of straw on the ground to try to keep our feet dry--until even that became soaked and it was just a big mud puddle.

As the rain continued to pour down, the straw did little more than become a sponge for all that rain and mud. Our spirits were not dampened. The Power Plungers donned their costumes (wigs, masks, capes and mini-plungers) and danced around the tent waving their plungers and singing "We are Family."

The rain continued to pour as we moved our towels and dry clothes to the "warming tent" and lined up to take our plunge.

Teams began plunging, cheered on by a brave crowd weathering the elements and by fellow plungers eagerly waiting their turn. That was when the lightning started.

We were about 4 teams away from plunging, when everyone had to get out of the lake, out of line and back into the tent for saftey. We were told by folks in charge that they weren't sure when or even if we'd be able to plunge as the lightning continued.

Swanny, Peanut and Swanny Jr. were there to cheer my team and me on. Before the ligtning had started, they had staked out a location along the lake, umbrellas in hand. But as the rain continued to fall, the mud got worse and the uncertainty of our team plunging loomed, I told them to catch the next bus to the parking lot and head home. No less than 5 minutes after I watched my family head out on their bus, the word came down--we're plunging now! We got in line and psyched ourselves up. We came up for our turn and the 19 of us ran forward into the lake.

It. Was. Cold.

We were already soaking wet so it wasn't too much of a shock, but my feet, which had been wet for about an hour and a half already went numb instantly. We waved our plungers, cheered and splashed. Two brave souls completely submerged themselves under the water--not me--maybe next year! We all headed for the warming tent and our dry towels and clothes. I headed out rather than staying for the lunch and post-plunge events. I wanted to get home to my family and my warm bed for a nap.

Our team won the prestigious Golden Plunger for raising the most money of any of the teams at our plunge location. And, thus far, we appear to be the leading team in the state in terms of raising the most money for all plunge locations.

We were all so proud of ourselves and of the people who came together to donate to us--we pulled in nearly $20,000.00 for Special Olympics Illinois over about a 3 week period. In reflecting on it though, it's not the large amount of money we raised in the short period of time that moves me about this whole experience.

For me, it was the chance to actively show support for a movement that supports children and families with whom I work directly. A chance to support an organization that provides invaluable experiences for children who would otherwise maybe not know what it is like to get recognition or reward for dedication and hard work. I so often think that many of the kids I work with are so rarely told or shown that they are good at anything, when truly they all have greatness within them. Special Olympics allows them to tap into their inner potential and see what they can do. As Mrs. T, our team leader and special ed. teacher extrodinaire says to her class and as she said to all of us, "Who can't do it? Show me you can't." Our team certainly rose to that challenge. It was truly an honor to take on that challenge in order to show how much we value the athletes, their families and the organization of Special Olympics.

It was inspiring to have a few of our students on hand at the plunge, reminding us of why we were voluntarily out in the wet, the cold and the mud. Here, I was able to get a great shot of Mrs. T.'s daughter showing off the 2 gold medals that she won at the swim meet just the day before qualifying her for state.

The joy and pride on that young woman's face was priceless and spoke volumes. It was such a great reminder to me that we were all there to be a part of something that had such a bigger purpose than just being cold and wet. To have a sense that you belong to something with a bigger meaning can really bring you moments of clarity about who you are and what life is really about...I only hope that everyone out there experiences those moments too. I know for a fact that any person who participates in Special Olympics does and I know that by participating in the Polar Plunge I did. I think those of you who donated to our cause can feel a part of that higher purpose too. Thank you so much. I can't wait to do this again next year.