Saturday, October 4, 2014
The End
The Arizona Adventures of Erie comes to a close today as I leave on my next adventure: Girl Meets World: Salt Lake City. Thanks for reading!
Stress Away
There is a store in Christown Mall in Phoenix I like to frequent called Stress Away. It's a great place to get a quick massage. They offer options such as a chair or bed acupressure massage. Also there is a foot detox ionization. That's where you soak your feet in hot water for about forty minutes while resting on one of their beds watching the movie, Rush Hour. I am not kidding. Every time I go into this place, it is the same movie. I've been tempted to buy them Rush Hour 2 & 3 just to get some variety in the place. (The movie is silent with subtitles so as not to disrupt the relaxation process.)
If you ever get a chance, I would give this place a try!
If you ever get a chance, I would give this place a try!
Sunday, September 28, 2014
Phoenix Monsoon
This weekend Hana's family went to Salt Lake City for the Utah game and I stayed here to watch the house and the dogs. I remember Angie saying it was supposed to rain all of Saturday but when I texted her around noon the sky was blue with a few sparse clouds.
I went to my casita and took a nap. I was awakened about two hours later by a loud sound. I opened my blinds and looked out the french doors. The sky had turned gray and it was raining hard. There was thunder and some lightning. The wind came in gusts. The bushes outside my doors kept swaying in front of my window and hitting the casita. I looked up in the sky and saw a piece of black debris fly by.
I opened the internet on my phone to check the weather. The report said that severe thunderstorm warning and that winds were in excess of 60mph. I began to worry about the possibility of a tornado. I knew the safest place to be was in the main house with the dogs who were probably scared. I put on my sneakers for better traction and put on my hooded jacket. I waited until a gust of wind subsided then quickly opened the door and ran into the house.
It was really dark inside. I took off my shoes and turned on some lights. The dogs found me and I petted them and said it was all right. I went to the front window and looked out. The two large screens were blowing hard. The bungy cords holding them down had come loose. The strings connected to them were mangled so trying to pull them up was pointless.
I tried turning on the tv but the storm had messed with the cable signal. I texted Angie to let her know we were okay. Finally the storm died down. The cable signal returned and I felt safe again.
Things in the backyard had been tossed around. The bushes outside my casita were a mess. Half of the hot tub cover had blown off. There was a large puddle on the ground. The pool was filled with fallen tree leaves.
"Branches and debris littered streets around the city and at least one traffic light was knocked over. Some trees were toppled by the ensuing wind. The Salt River Project utility said that about 31,000 customers were without power as of Saturday afternoon."
What a way to spend a Saturday! Sunday I stayed home with the dogs and tidied up the place. The family returned home that night. Hana gave me a hug! Now for the next adventure: Hana's grandma comes to visit as I prepare to move back to SLC.
I went to my casita and took a nap. I was awakened about two hours later by a loud sound. I opened my blinds and looked out the french doors. The sky had turned gray and it was raining hard. There was thunder and some lightning. The wind came in gusts. The bushes outside my doors kept swaying in front of my window and hitting the casita. I looked up in the sky and saw a piece of black debris fly by.
I opened the internet on my phone to check the weather. The report said that severe thunderstorm warning and that winds were in excess of 60mph. I began to worry about the possibility of a tornado. I knew the safest place to be was in the main house with the dogs who were probably scared. I put on my sneakers for better traction and put on my hooded jacket. I waited until a gust of wind subsided then quickly opened the door and ran into the house.
It was really dark inside. I took off my shoes and turned on some lights. The dogs found me and I petted them and said it was all right. I went to the front window and looked out. The two large screens were blowing hard. The bungy cords holding them down had come loose. The strings connected to them were mangled so trying to pull them up was pointless.
I tried turning on the tv but the storm had messed with the cable signal. I texted Angie to let her know we were okay. Finally the storm died down. The cable signal returned and I felt safe again.
Things in the backyard had been tossed around. The bushes outside my casita were a mess. Half of the hot tub cover had blown off. There was a large puddle on the ground. The pool was filled with fallen tree leaves.
"Branches and debris littered streets around the city and at least one traffic light was knocked over. Some trees were toppled by the ensuing wind. The Salt River Project utility said that about 31,000 customers were without power as of Saturday afternoon."
What a way to spend a Saturday! Sunday I stayed home with the dogs and tidied up the place. The family returned home that night. Hana gave me a hug! Now for the next adventure: Hana's grandma comes to visit as I prepare to move back to SLC.
Friday, September 19, 2014
Hana Is Singing
Hana is always amazing me. She's learning the words to all kinds of songs. She can sing along to the theme song of Little Einsteins. Now she has learned to change the pitch of her voice to sing high and low and to whisper.
This week both Angie and Jeff had birthdays. For Angie's birthday we had homemade spaghetti and a cake I picked up at the store. I gave her a gift basket I had put together which included a pug birthday card. She loves pugs!
Today is Jeff's birthday. Usually I wouldn't have a clue as to what to get him but he gave me an idea about two months ago. I bought him the book set of Bunnicula books. It's about a dog and cat who solve mysteries. They think the new pet bunny is a vampire so they call him Bunnicula. It was great to read as a kid and it turns out that he read them too.
We went out to eat at a local pizza place. I was so hungry that I ate my individual pizza all gone before we left. Hana was fussy so Angie and Jeff ate what they could while taking shifts with her.
The best part was the ride home. Hana had us all sing a Daniel Tiger song over and over again. She just kept asking, "One more time?" Here are the lyrics:
This week both Angie and Jeff had birthdays. For Angie's birthday we had homemade spaghetti and a cake I picked up at the store. I gave her a gift basket I had put together which included a pug birthday card. She loves pugs!
Today is Jeff's birthday. Usually I wouldn't have a clue as to what to get him but he gave me an idea about two months ago. I bought him the book set of Bunnicula books. It's about a dog and cat who solve mysteries. They think the new pet bunny is a vampire so they call him Bunnicula. It was great to read as a kid and it turns out that he read them too.
We went out to eat at a local pizza place. I was so hungry that I ate my individual pizza all gone before we left. Hana was fussy so Angie and Jeff ate what they could while taking shifts with her.
The best part was the ride home. Hana had us all sing a Daniel Tiger song over and over again. She just kept asking, "One more time?" Here are the lyrics:
Goodnight, Sleep tight
Dream dreams as sweet as you.
Then she looked at the toy train in her hand named Gordon and said, "Sing Gordon!" so Jeff used his deep singing voice I never knew he had to pretend to be Gordon. Then we clapped so we could all be done singing that song. I remembered how Hana was learning to hum to the song Little Bitty Pretty One so I started her off and she began humming. Angie joined in but Jeff didn't know that song.
Before we got home (this was a short car ride) we switched back to the goodnight song. It was great to partake in this family moment!
Sunday, September 7, 2014
Death
Lately I have been feeling sad like someone has died. It's like this aura of death is wrapped around me.
There have been contributing factors. Actor Robin Williams died a couple of weeks ago. I have always admired him. When I was a teenager and a radio host asked the audience who we would pick to be our celebrity parents, I chose Mariah Carey as my mom (this pre Honey song/Glitter) and Robin Williams as my dad. I watched Dead Poet Society right after he died and it made me cry. Still, this was before I started feeling this way this week.
Second factor: I have been watching Buffy the Vampire Slayer series for a few weeks and I recently watched the episode where Buffy's mom died. It was sudden and done very realistically. Buffy comes home to find her mom dead on the couch with her eyes open. She had survived a brain tumor only to succumb to a blood clot or something. I teared up for this. Who wouldn't?
Third factor: An elderly lady from my home ward in Omaha pass away recently. I found out through facebook. I used to call her Grandma Wilcox. She was a kind woman who always had a hug and a smile to share. I hadn't seen her since college when I was home for the summer. I found a picture of us and posted it on her obituary commentary page.
Then this morning I received a scary phone call from my sister, Katie. She told me that last night, Colten almost died! He was being watched by his dad, Brad and his grandma. While Brad was putting Brayden down, Grandma was watching Colten. He became tired so Grandma put him down on her bed. He likes to sleep on his tummy. Shortly after falling asleep, Grandma checked on him and he was pale white with dried blood on his nose. She rushed him to Brad who called 911. Katie was called and she rushed home from work. EMTs were working on him when she got there. Colten was rushed to the hospital.
Colten is doing a lot better. The color has returned to his face. So far all of the tests have come back clear. He's still at the hospital but should be released soon. She's supposed to let me know when he is clear to go home.
Question: Is this all hormonal or an I intuitive? Did I sense that something bad was going to happen or was I just grieving over current losses?
There have been contributing factors. Actor Robin Williams died a couple of weeks ago. I have always admired him. When I was a teenager and a radio host asked the audience who we would pick to be our celebrity parents, I chose Mariah Carey as my mom (this pre Honey song/Glitter) and Robin Williams as my dad. I watched Dead Poet Society right after he died and it made me cry. Still, this was before I started feeling this way this week.
Second factor: I have been watching Buffy the Vampire Slayer series for a few weeks and I recently watched the episode where Buffy's mom died. It was sudden and done very realistically. Buffy comes home to find her mom dead on the couch with her eyes open. She had survived a brain tumor only to succumb to a blood clot or something. I teared up for this. Who wouldn't?
Third factor: An elderly lady from my home ward in Omaha pass away recently. I found out through facebook. I used to call her Grandma Wilcox. She was a kind woman who always had a hug and a smile to share. I hadn't seen her since college when I was home for the summer. I found a picture of us and posted it on her obituary commentary page.
Then this morning I received a scary phone call from my sister, Katie. She told me that last night, Colten almost died! He was being watched by his dad, Brad and his grandma. While Brad was putting Brayden down, Grandma was watching Colten. He became tired so Grandma put him down on her bed. He likes to sleep on his tummy. Shortly after falling asleep, Grandma checked on him and he was pale white with dried blood on his nose. She rushed him to Brad who called 911. Katie was called and she rushed home from work. EMTs were working on him when she got there. Colten was rushed to the hospital.
Colten is doing a lot better. The color has returned to his face. So far all of the tests have come back clear. He's still at the hospital but should be released soon. She's supposed to let me know when he is clear to go home.
Question: Is this all hormonal or an I intuitive? Did I sense that something bad was going to happen or was I just grieving over current losses?
Friday, September 5, 2014
Sacks
There is an sandwich shop I've been to a few times and I always order the same delicious sandwich. The shop is called Sacks. It's right outside the neighborhood and it serves sandwiches with a cookie and you can add chips, drinks, and desserts like brownies and lemon bars.
My favorite sandwich is called Sacks Dali. It's egg salad, bacon, lettuce, tomato, cream cheese and mayo on a 12 grain bread.
My favorite sandwich is called Sacks Dali. It's egg salad, bacon, lettuce, tomato, cream cheese and mayo on a 12 grain bread.
I come here with Angie and Hana on Angie's lunch break sometimes. Hana loves cheetos the most. Jeff gets jealous that we go here without him so we bring him a Sacks lunch home. (Ha ha pun)
My New Schedule
Now that Hana is in preschool for about fours hours a day, my work schedule has lessened. Some days I drop off Angie at work then take Hana to school and then have free time until 11am when I pick her up. Hana always falls asleep on the car ride home. I wake her up long enough to eat lunch and read books and then I put her down for her nap. Other days I don't start my morning until I go to pick her up at 11am which is nice because I can sleep in a bit.
Hana doesn't quite like school yet. She wimpers when I drop her off. I sing the Daniel Tiger song "Grown Ups Come Back" and give her hugs and kisses before I leave. Picking her up is more fun. She sees me and says "Hello, Erie" and begins to cry as she hugs me. She refuses to walk so I carry her from class to the car. It's not easy for an almost two year old to answer how her day was. The most I have gotten out of her is that she plays with her friends.
I've been keeping myself busy with online classes. I took a bookkeeping/accounting class via groupon which was a total bore. You have one test at the end of countless pages of reading and you only get to take it once. Then I took Excel 2010 & 2013 via another groupon deal. That was more interesting. They read the text outloud and it's a UK site so the lady has a British accent. There's a quiz after every module and you can review the answers you got wrong and retake it. Now I am taking Microsoft Word 2013 via universalclass.com and yes, I bought it via a groupon. This course is good too and so far I seem to be passing.
I am also applying to jobs in the Salt Lake City area. It's frustrating because most employers want someone to start right away. I can't exactly fly out for an interview at any given moment. Still, I want to have a job lined up before I move out in October.
Hana doesn't quite like school yet. She wimpers when I drop her off. I sing the Daniel Tiger song "Grown Ups Come Back" and give her hugs and kisses before I leave. Picking her up is more fun. She sees me and says "Hello, Erie" and begins to cry as she hugs me. She refuses to walk so I carry her from class to the car. It's not easy for an almost two year old to answer how her day was. The most I have gotten out of her is that she plays with her friends.
I've been keeping myself busy with online classes. I took a bookkeeping/accounting class via groupon which was a total bore. You have one test at the end of countless pages of reading and you only get to take it once. Then I took Excel 2010 & 2013 via another groupon deal. That was more interesting. They read the text outloud and it's a UK site so the lady has a British accent. There's a quiz after every module and you can review the answers you got wrong and retake it. Now I am taking Microsoft Word 2013 via universalclass.com and yes, I bought it via a groupon. This course is good too and so far I seem to be passing.
I am also applying to jobs in the Salt Lake City area. It's frustrating because most employers want someone to start right away. I can't exactly fly out for an interview at any given moment. Still, I want to have a job lined up before I move out in October.
Friday, August 22, 2014
Eat or Be Eaten
Two nights ago I ordered a pizza from Pizza Hut. I figured with it being a week night that my order would be delivered quickly. The estimated time was decent and said I should expect my order by 7:15pm. Since I live in the casita behind the house and didn't want the driver to bother the family, I requested that they call me before ringing the doorbell.
So at 7:10pm I went outside to the front and waited for my pizza. While I waited, I noticed a praying mantis on the screen. I've never seen one before. Jeff and Hana came outside and I showed it to them. The neighbor's cat came over and I petted it. Angie came outside. By that time the pizza delivery guy was ten minutes late.
Everyone went inside. It was getting dark. I could see lightning in the distance. My phone rang. It was the pizza guy. He said they were running longer than expected and he was on his way. My pizza was 25 minutes late when it arrived. I didn't take it out on the delivery guy because it wasn't his fault. I just took my pizza and had dinner in my casita.
Apparently while I was outside waiting for the pizza, the bugs were making food out of me. It's now Friday night and my feet and ankles are pink and itchy and painful from all of the bug bites.
So at 7:10pm I went outside to the front and waited for my pizza. While I waited, I noticed a praying mantis on the screen. I've never seen one before. Jeff and Hana came outside and I showed it to them. The neighbor's cat came over and I petted it. Angie came outside. By that time the pizza delivery guy was ten minutes late.
Everyone went inside. It was getting dark. I could see lightning in the distance. My phone rang. It was the pizza guy. He said they were running longer than expected and he was on his way. My pizza was 25 minutes late when it arrived. I didn't take it out on the delivery guy because it wasn't his fault. I just took my pizza and had dinner in my casita.
Apparently while I was outside waiting for the pizza, the bugs were making food out of me. It's now Friday night and my feet and ankles are pink and itchy and painful from all of the bug bites.
Saturday, August 9, 2014
I Need A Vacation After My Vacation
All week I had been wishing that I had taken a day off between my SLC trip and returning to work with Hana. I was tired everyday. I took short naps when Hana slept.
This new schedule with Hana is hard. She used to have a morning and afternoon nap so my ten hours days were broken up where she slept three to four hours. I had time to relax and eat breakfast in the morning and brush and floss my teeth and pick out an activity or art project before she woke up. Now she takes one nap and though it should be longer, she only sleeps two hours. Now I eat breakfast while she is awake, skip brushing my teeth, and don't have anything prepared for us to do in the morning.
I get the car about twice a week. Jeff or I will drive Angie to work and usually Jeff picks her up before returning home. It's hard keeping Hana entertained without a car in Phoenix heat and I am too tired to do anything. This week we went to Little Gym, Paradise Valley Mall, went swimming twice in her backyard, went on a bug safari, and did some art projects such as painting.
Hana was put on a wait list for two different daycares/preschools for the fall. Her number never came up so she won't be getting that social interaction a couple days a week as we had hoped. Little Gym class ended this week so Angie plans on enrolling Hana in a swim class. I will enjoy that much more.
Hana keeps surprising me. She asked me to change her diaper! She is also listening to the lyrics of songs I play in the car. One time we were driving to the grocery store while I played the Glee version of Forget You and it got to this part:
Now Baby Baby Baby Why Ya Wanna Wanna Hurt Me So Bad?
I Tried To Tell My Momma But She Told Me This Was One For Your Dad
Why?
Why?
Why baby?
During this part we were at a red light so I turned around, used my hand as a microphone and lip synced it to her. She smiled. The next morning I was telling her mom about it and I sang that part again and Hana suddenly became my back up singer. At the end of "Hurt me so bad" she sang, "So bad, so bad" in perfect rhythm!
She's also singing along to the theme songs to Little Einsteins, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, and Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood. I also hold singing notes with her and try to match her pitch. This girl is quite musically talented! She can also count to twelve without skipping a number.
As to Thomas Trains, her collection keeps growing! She now has 23 train engines and five tenders (tenders are the coal carts attached to train engines). Her dad also bought her a giant track set which has completely taken over the play table in her toy room. Now we can't do art projects on there anymore.
Hana's favorite trains are Thomas, James, and Molly. She also favors Gordon and Henry. I usually have to let her take a couple of trains outside or in the car with us. She cries when I tell her that the trains have to stay in the car. She is so attached to her train friends!
Now it's finally the weekend and I can focus on resting. Hmm...something is in my room moving quickly across the floor. I think it's a baby gecko. At least it's not a spider or a centipede. If I can find a way to trap it, I will set it free outside.
This new schedule with Hana is hard. She used to have a morning and afternoon nap so my ten hours days were broken up where she slept three to four hours. I had time to relax and eat breakfast in the morning and brush and floss my teeth and pick out an activity or art project before she woke up. Now she takes one nap and though it should be longer, she only sleeps two hours. Now I eat breakfast while she is awake, skip brushing my teeth, and don't have anything prepared for us to do in the morning.
I get the car about twice a week. Jeff or I will drive Angie to work and usually Jeff picks her up before returning home. It's hard keeping Hana entertained without a car in Phoenix heat and I am too tired to do anything. This week we went to Little Gym, Paradise Valley Mall, went swimming twice in her backyard, went on a bug safari, and did some art projects such as painting.
Hana was put on a wait list for two different daycares/preschools for the fall. Her number never came up so she won't be getting that social interaction a couple days a week as we had hoped. Little Gym class ended this week so Angie plans on enrolling Hana in a swim class. I will enjoy that much more.
Hana keeps surprising me. She asked me to change her diaper! She is also listening to the lyrics of songs I play in the car. One time we were driving to the grocery store while I played the Glee version of Forget You and it got to this part:
Now Baby Baby Baby Why Ya Wanna Wanna Hurt Me So Bad?
I Tried To Tell My Momma But She Told Me This Was One For Your Dad
Why?
Why?
Why baby?
During this part we were at a red light so I turned around, used my hand as a microphone and lip synced it to her. She smiled. The next morning I was telling her mom about it and I sang that part again and Hana suddenly became my back up singer. At the end of "Hurt me so bad" she sang, "So bad, so bad" in perfect rhythm!
She's also singing along to the theme songs to Little Einsteins, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, and Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood. I also hold singing notes with her and try to match her pitch. This girl is quite musically talented! She can also count to twelve without skipping a number.
As to Thomas Trains, her collection keeps growing! She now has 23 train engines and five tenders (tenders are the coal carts attached to train engines). Her dad also bought her a giant track set which has completely taken over the play table in her toy room. Now we can't do art projects on there anymore.
Hana's favorite trains are Thomas, James, and Molly. She also favors Gordon and Henry. I usually have to let her take a couple of trains outside or in the car with us. She cries when I tell her that the trains have to stay in the car. She is so attached to her train friends!
Now it's finally the weekend and I can focus on resting. Hmm...something is in my room moving quickly across the floor. I think it's a baby gecko. At least it's not a spider or a centipede. If I can find a way to trap it, I will set it free outside.
The Moon Was A Yellow Banana
Last weekend I visited my friends in Salt Lake City. I arrived Friday afternoon and Alison graciously picked me up and we went to Bountiful to her mom's house where Alison works. The three of us went grocery shopping to Smiths Marketplace where I found cute outfits for the new baby my boss, Angie is expecting in December.
Before we left Mama Carol's house I got my picture taken with her. What a kind lady! Alison and I made a stop at her brother's health food store before going to her place in Taylorsville to pick up her husband, Daniel and go out to dinner. We ate at Johnny Carinos. I ordered my favorite dish: three cheese tortellini in alfredo sauce. It's the best pasta I have ever had! Since the salads were unlimited we each had more than one. I had my delicious caesar salad. I could eat caesar salad every day and never tire of it!
Afterwards we stopped at Shara's house to get a spare key and then back to their place for a movie. We watched Galaxy Quest. Alison didn't like it. It's cheesy but fun to watch. As Alison drove me to Shara's house late that night, I looked up at the cloudy night sky and it made me gasp. The moon looked like a yellow banana! I tried to take a picture with my phone but my resolution sucked. It was pretty, though.
The next morning I got up in time to see Shara off as she was leaving for a friend's birthday party. Debbie picked me up and we went out to breakfast at Cracker Barrel. I had french toast with bacon, hashbrown casserole, and a blueberry muffin. I played the peg game they keep at all their tables and eventually won. After breakfast we lingered around the store and I found a special coloring book for Hana.
About an hour after Debbie dropped me back at Shara's house, Nancy arrived. She drove me over to Alison's house and Daniel, Alison, Nancy and I carpooled to Kaysville to go to Boondocks. I had never been there before. It was a lot of fun! We started with miniature golf where I got a hole in one! The last hole there was this tiki dude and if you shot the ball into him correctly, fire shot up from his head. If you missed, you were squirted with water. On a hot day when I was feeling the sun burning my skin, I missed the shot and opened my mouth!
Nancy won that game. Then we ate lunch. Alison had a cooler with an ice pack so we brought our own food. Yea for saving money! Next was bowling. Nancy and I picked out nicknames for each bowler: Nancy was Laughing Eyes, I was Blondie, Alison was Alley Cat and Daniel was Tiger Man as a cross between Daniel Tiger and Dan The Man. I was a terrible bowler but I didn't care because bowling is fun. I think Daniel won that game.
Then came the arcades. Our unlimited fun cards each had $5 arcade money. Nancy and I played a dancing arcade game like one I've seen in a movie. It was fun but Nancy was definitely better at it than me. We all looked around for fun games to play. Alison found an alien game similar to the one we played at the arcade in West Jordan so we played it. We were both yelling out phrases such as " Die! Die Aliens, Die!" and "Get off our planet Alien scum!". We drew a little attention with that.
Nancy found a game called Crazy Eights. You pull the lever and a light moves in a rectangular motion past numbers from 10 to 80 as well as bonus. Nancy and I earned a lot of tickets on that machine! We put our tickets into the ticket machine before going to the prize table. When the guy scanned my card there were no tickets shown on my card when I had just earned 110 tickets! I was upset. Nancy insisted on speaking with a manager. At first the manager was all too bad, so sad but Nancy insisted so the manager took my card and added the tickets onto my card. If it hadn't been for Nancy, I wouldn't have gotten my tickets. We added a few more dollars to our cards, played Crazy Eights again, earned even more tickets, then went outside to have some more fun.
Next was Go Carts. I remember doing this when I was around ten years old. I had my sister Kelli next to me in the car and one of us was the gas pedal and the other used the brake pedal. Here I was on my own. I am a cautious driver by nature so I wasn't all about pedal to the metal like other drivers. I slowed down for turns and kept to the side so faster drivers could pass me. Still, it was great having my hair blowing in the wind and driving with my friends.
The final activity was Bumper Boats. We weren't in actual boats, more like inner tubes. There were about twenty boats all together in a large but shallow pool. Next to the motor there were two levers: one for turning and the other for squirting water. I managed to get all my friends wet and vice versa. This was my favorite activity!
We ended our trip by returning to the prize station and spending our tickets on little toys and candy.
That night was Shrek the Musical. Daniel chose not to go so it was girls night! We grabbed food at Chick Fil-A and ate it there. It was at the Murray Park Ampitheater so we had seats. The blankets we brought helped our bums to be more comfortable. During the show Nancy recognized the little Fiona actress from a youtube video and so after the show I took their picture. I got my picture taken with Donkey. It was a great show!
Sunday I spent with Shara. We talked and ate breakfast. Later we went to church with her friend, Aaron. It was Fast Sunday so during Sacrament Meeting lots of people got up to share their testimonies. I was listening intently to one young woman who talked about her friends and family members who no longer went to church and how sad it made her feel. I felt impressed to speak with her as someone who has been on the other side of the church bubble. After service was over I introduced myself and shared some advice. I didn't expect to but I teared up while talking. She thanked me and we hugged.
All too soon my trip was over and Aaron and Shara took me to the airport. My flight left on time. I ended up sitting next to a friendly 12 year old girl named Grace who was flying for the first time. She was going to visit her sick Aunt and play with her cute dogs for a few days. I gave her advice such as chewing gum to help her ears pop and to avoid using the bathroom. We talked about Hana as well as her family. She did very well for her first flight.
Before we left Mama Carol's house I got my picture taken with her. What a kind lady! Alison and I made a stop at her brother's health food store before going to her place in Taylorsville to pick up her husband, Daniel and go out to dinner. We ate at Johnny Carinos. I ordered my favorite dish: three cheese tortellini in alfredo sauce. It's the best pasta I have ever had! Since the salads were unlimited we each had more than one. I had my delicious caesar salad. I could eat caesar salad every day and never tire of it!
Afterwards we stopped at Shara's house to get a spare key and then back to their place for a movie. We watched Galaxy Quest. Alison didn't like it. It's cheesy but fun to watch. As Alison drove me to Shara's house late that night, I looked up at the cloudy night sky and it made me gasp. The moon looked like a yellow banana! I tried to take a picture with my phone but my resolution sucked. It was pretty, though.
The next morning I got up in time to see Shara off as she was leaving for a friend's birthday party. Debbie picked me up and we went out to breakfast at Cracker Barrel. I had french toast with bacon, hashbrown casserole, and a blueberry muffin. I played the peg game they keep at all their tables and eventually won. After breakfast we lingered around the store and I found a special coloring book for Hana.
About an hour after Debbie dropped me back at Shara's house, Nancy arrived. She drove me over to Alison's house and Daniel, Alison, Nancy and I carpooled to Kaysville to go to Boondocks. I had never been there before. It was a lot of fun! We started with miniature golf where I got a hole in one! The last hole there was this tiki dude and if you shot the ball into him correctly, fire shot up from his head. If you missed, you were squirted with water. On a hot day when I was feeling the sun burning my skin, I missed the shot and opened my mouth!
Nancy won that game. Then we ate lunch. Alison had a cooler with an ice pack so we brought our own food. Yea for saving money! Next was bowling. Nancy and I picked out nicknames for each bowler: Nancy was Laughing Eyes, I was Blondie, Alison was Alley Cat and Daniel was Tiger Man as a cross between Daniel Tiger and Dan The Man. I was a terrible bowler but I didn't care because bowling is fun. I think Daniel won that game.
Then came the arcades. Our unlimited fun cards each had $5 arcade money. Nancy and I played a dancing arcade game like one I've seen in a movie. It was fun but Nancy was definitely better at it than me. We all looked around for fun games to play. Alison found an alien game similar to the one we played at the arcade in West Jordan so we played it. We were both yelling out phrases such as " Die! Die Aliens, Die!" and "Get off our planet Alien scum!". We drew a little attention with that.
Nancy found a game called Crazy Eights. You pull the lever and a light moves in a rectangular motion past numbers from 10 to 80 as well as bonus. Nancy and I earned a lot of tickets on that machine! We put our tickets into the ticket machine before going to the prize table. When the guy scanned my card there were no tickets shown on my card when I had just earned 110 tickets! I was upset. Nancy insisted on speaking with a manager. At first the manager was all too bad, so sad but Nancy insisted so the manager took my card and added the tickets onto my card. If it hadn't been for Nancy, I wouldn't have gotten my tickets. We added a few more dollars to our cards, played Crazy Eights again, earned even more tickets, then went outside to have some more fun.
Next was Go Carts. I remember doing this when I was around ten years old. I had my sister Kelli next to me in the car and one of us was the gas pedal and the other used the brake pedal. Here I was on my own. I am a cautious driver by nature so I wasn't all about pedal to the metal like other drivers. I slowed down for turns and kept to the side so faster drivers could pass me. Still, it was great having my hair blowing in the wind and driving with my friends.
The final activity was Bumper Boats. We weren't in actual boats, more like inner tubes. There were about twenty boats all together in a large but shallow pool. Next to the motor there were two levers: one for turning and the other for squirting water. I managed to get all my friends wet and vice versa. This was my favorite activity!
We ended our trip by returning to the prize station and spending our tickets on little toys and candy.
That night was Shrek the Musical. Daniel chose not to go so it was girls night! We grabbed food at Chick Fil-A and ate it there. It was at the Murray Park Ampitheater so we had seats. The blankets we brought helped our bums to be more comfortable. During the show Nancy recognized the little Fiona actress from a youtube video and so after the show I took their picture. I got my picture taken with Donkey. It was a great show!
Sunday I spent with Shara. We talked and ate breakfast. Later we went to church with her friend, Aaron. It was Fast Sunday so during Sacrament Meeting lots of people got up to share their testimonies. I was listening intently to one young woman who talked about her friends and family members who no longer went to church and how sad it made her feel. I felt impressed to speak with her as someone who has been on the other side of the church bubble. After service was over I introduced myself and shared some advice. I didn't expect to but I teared up while talking. She thanked me and we hugged.
All too soon my trip was over and Aaron and Shara took me to the airport. My flight left on time. I ended up sitting next to a friendly 12 year old girl named Grace who was flying for the first time. She was going to visit her sick Aunt and play with her cute dogs for a few days. I gave her advice such as chewing gum to help her ears pop and to avoid using the bathroom. We talked about Hana as well as her family. She did very well for her first flight.
What Was The Dentist Doing In Panama?
Answer: Looking for the Root Canal!
This morning I faced my second dentist. I arrived early and realized I had forgotten my chap stick at home. I knew I would regret that later.
I remembered to tell the dental assistant and the dentist (I should learn his name) about needing extra Lidocaine. He injected my mouth several times and then I was left alone to allow the medicine to take effect. Have you ever felt your chin when it's numbed? I giggled outloud. It felt like someone had attached a theatrical add on mold over my own chin. The numbness traveled on my left side all the way up to my ear. The right side didn't go as far because I would only have one filling on that side.
I remember pleading with God throughout the ordeal that I not feel any pain and that it would be over quickly. Well, at least He listened to the first part. The Lidocaine worked. I felt pressure but no pain. I could smell the smoke from the drill, I could taste the numbing jell still in my mouth and I was uncomfortable but no pain.
Once the drilling started I found myself breathing through my mouth instead of my nose. I focused on inhaling through my nose but I couldn't exhale that way. At times I felt like I couldn't exhale as much as I was inhaling. My breathing wasn't normal. I closed my eyes as much as possible.
I want to photoshop a fun background to this picture as use it as a Halloween card.
This morning I faced my second dentist. I arrived early and realized I had forgotten my chap stick at home. I knew I would regret that later.
I remembered to tell the dental assistant and the dentist (I should learn his name) about needing extra Lidocaine. He injected my mouth several times and then I was left alone to allow the medicine to take effect. Have you ever felt your chin when it's numbed? I giggled outloud. It felt like someone had attached a theatrical add on mold over my own chin. The numbness traveled on my left side all the way up to my ear. The right side didn't go as far because I would only have one filling on that side.
I remember pleading with God throughout the ordeal that I not feel any pain and that it would be over quickly. Well, at least He listened to the first part. The Lidocaine worked. I felt pressure but no pain. I could smell the smoke from the drill, I could taste the numbing jell still in my mouth and I was uncomfortable but no pain.
Once the drilling started I found myself breathing through my mouth instead of my nose. I focused on inhaling through my nose but I couldn't exhale that way. At times I felt like I couldn't exhale as much as I was inhaling. My breathing wasn't normal. I closed my eyes as much as possible.
I want to photoshop a fun background to this picture as use it as a Halloween card.
You know that light dentists use that shines over your face while they are working? Well I saw that there were initials or some brand name on the face of it: TPC. I focused on those letters and made a game out of it. Here are some phrases I thought of:
Ten Per Cent
Teal Peach Charcoal
The Perfect Child
Again the dentist told me several times to relax my tongue. I replied that I could hardly feel it let alone control it. As he was finishing up he told me he got my tongue while doing a filling. I told him it was fine. That's what pain killers are for!
Polishing, flossing and it was finally over! Overall it wasn't as bad as last time. My mouth was still horribly numb and I was embarrassed for anyone to see it though I looked at myself in the car mirror and realized that no one could probably tell. It wasn't even 11am as I was driving home but I had skipped breakfast so I stopped and got food on the way home.
Eating was not possible yet. I was slowly and carefully able to drink my smoothie. I could control my top lip but not the bottom one. It took two more hours for the numbness to go away and even then it hurt to chew. I had bought alcohol to help with the pain but I soon realized that the sores on my tongue didn't care for alcohol. I ate ice cream and took pain killers instead.
I don't have to see the dentist again until January!
Sunday, July 27, 2014
I Think She Ate Poop!
This week I transitioned Hana to one nap a day rather than two. The first day she cried and fussed and then only slept two hours but after than she got better and learned to sleep three hours from 11am-2pm. I have to adjust when I eat as well and plan our art projects and outings around this new schedule.
It was Friday afternoon and I was in my casita listening for Hana on her video monitor. I heard her and saw on the monitor that she was awake. I didn't rush in because I wanted her to be fully awake by the time I went in. I grabbed the monitor and my cell phone and went into the house. I plugged the monitor back in to the kitchen and entered Hana's room. Immediately I could smell poop.
I picked her up and placed her down on the changing table. As I began to change her diaper, Hana said, "I like dirt." I was surprised to hear her say that but I figured she didn't know what she was talking about. (Hana is the type of girl who sees dirt everywhere.) I thought the amount of poop in her diaper was small considering the smell but I ignored it. Hana grabbed the diaper tab and tried to pull it toward her. I pulled it away and said "No".
As I wiped her bottom Hana held up her finger and said "dirt". I grabbed a fresh wipe and went to wipe her finger. That's when I saw her entire left hand was covered in a dry dark green substance. The same color as the poop in her diaper. What??? I wiped and and sanitized her hands. I checked her mouth and her bed. All I saw on her bed was one tiny brown speck which could have been anything.
I was still in shock as we went into the play room. I asked Hana, "Where did you touch dirt? Was the dirt in your diaper?" Hana didn't answer me. I think she was confused. I took her into the bathroom and brushed her teeth. I had my laptop in the house so I looked up the possible dangers of babies eating poop. I was surprised to read how many parents have had a similar experience. The overall consensus seemed to be that since it was the child's own poop that the child would be fine.
I texted her mom to let her know. She replied that Hana was being a toddler.
Did she really eat poop? I know there wasn't anything she ate at lunch that could have stained her hand and besides I wiped her hands after lunch. What else could it have been?
That's not all. Soon after Hana said, "I like dirt." Yikes! If I ever see her eating poop I will vomit!
Update 9/19/2014 I am now convinced that Hana did not eat poop. She has never attempted it since then. I even show her the poop in her diapers to spark her scientific curiosity but she just says ew smiling and that's it.
It was Friday afternoon and I was in my casita listening for Hana on her video monitor. I heard her and saw on the monitor that she was awake. I didn't rush in because I wanted her to be fully awake by the time I went in. I grabbed the monitor and my cell phone and went into the house. I plugged the monitor back in to the kitchen and entered Hana's room. Immediately I could smell poop.
I picked her up and placed her down on the changing table. As I began to change her diaper, Hana said, "I like dirt." I was surprised to hear her say that but I figured she didn't know what she was talking about. (Hana is the type of girl who sees dirt everywhere.) I thought the amount of poop in her diaper was small considering the smell but I ignored it. Hana grabbed the diaper tab and tried to pull it toward her. I pulled it away and said "No".
As I wiped her bottom Hana held up her finger and said "dirt". I grabbed a fresh wipe and went to wipe her finger. That's when I saw her entire left hand was covered in a dry dark green substance. The same color as the poop in her diaper. What??? I wiped and and sanitized her hands. I checked her mouth and her bed. All I saw on her bed was one tiny brown speck which could have been anything.
I was still in shock as we went into the play room. I asked Hana, "Where did you touch dirt? Was the dirt in your diaper?" Hana didn't answer me. I think she was confused. I took her into the bathroom and brushed her teeth. I had my laptop in the house so I looked up the possible dangers of babies eating poop. I was surprised to read how many parents have had a similar experience. The overall consensus seemed to be that since it was the child's own poop that the child would be fine.
I texted her mom to let her know. She replied that Hana was being a toddler.
Did she really eat poop? I know there wasn't anything she ate at lunch that could have stained her hand and besides I wiped her hands after lunch. What else could it have been?
That's not all. Soon after Hana said, "I like dirt." Yikes! If I ever see her eating poop I will vomit!
Update 9/19/2014 I am now convinced that Hana did not eat poop. She has never attempted it since then. I even show her the poop in her diapers to spark her scientific curiosity but she just says ew smiling and that's it.
Hell Hath No Fury...
...like a visit to the dentist!
I went in Saturday morning at 9am for my top fillings. Despite getting the earliest appointment, there were already other patients there and the office was quite busy. I was often left alone in the dental chair.
The dentist gave me a numbing agent called Lidocaine then left me alone for about fifteen minutes to take effect. I could feel it in my lips and it traveled up to the lower part of my nose. He came back and asked me if I had any concerns. I said pain. He said the Lidocaine would keep me from feeling anything but pressure. Turns out he was wrong. turns out my gums required more than the dosage he gave me because when he started drilling me I could feel it! I called out. He injected me again and continued.
He placed something in the side of my mouth to keep my jaw open. I hated it. My jaw hurt and at times I didn't think I could make it without pulling it out. Eventually he took it out and I got to relax my jaw for a few seconds before he placed it in the other side of my mouth.
I was hearing the drill, seeing smoke, tasting something gross in my mouth, and unable to relax. Saliva was being suctioned out or dripping down my face. I had to remind myself to breathe. I tried to close my eyes and imagine myself on a beach. My feet in the ocean water, walking along the shoreline.
He said he was done and I thought it was over as I breathed a sigh of relief. Then he said he would return to place the fillings. Noooo!!!!
A different assistant came in and put metal things in my mouth. She said she was prepping my teeth for the dentist. I felt pressure but no pain. After she left I grabbed my purse with my foot and lifted it to my reach. I pulled out my phone and took two pictures. Here they are:
I went in Saturday morning at 9am for my top fillings. Despite getting the earliest appointment, there were already other patients there and the office was quite busy. I was often left alone in the dental chair.
The dentist gave me a numbing agent called Lidocaine then left me alone for about fifteen minutes to take effect. I could feel it in my lips and it traveled up to the lower part of my nose. He came back and asked me if I had any concerns. I said pain. He said the Lidocaine would keep me from feeling anything but pressure. Turns out he was wrong. turns out my gums required more than the dosage he gave me because when he started drilling me I could feel it! I called out. He injected me again and continued.
He placed something in the side of my mouth to keep my jaw open. I hated it. My jaw hurt and at times I didn't think I could make it without pulling it out. Eventually he took it out and I got to relax my jaw for a few seconds before he placed it in the other side of my mouth.
I was hearing the drill, seeing smoke, tasting something gross in my mouth, and unable to relax. Saliva was being suctioned out or dripping down my face. I had to remind myself to breathe. I tried to close my eyes and imagine myself on a beach. My feet in the ocean water, walking along the shoreline.
He said he was done and I thought it was over as I breathed a sigh of relief. Then he said he would return to place the fillings. Noooo!!!!
A different assistant came in and put metal things in my mouth. She said she was prepping my teeth for the dentist. I felt pressure but no pain. After she left I grabbed my purse with my foot and lifted it to my reach. I pulled out my phone and took two pictures. Here they are:
These may make good Halloween pictures, huh?
The dentist returned at the fillings were placed. I think the Lidocaine was wearing off because I felt pain on one of the teeth he filled. I told him. It felt like an exposed nerve but I don't know for sure. He told me to relax my tongue but I couldn't feel it, let alone control it. The assistant kept suctioning my mouth and twice I had to pull it out because it felt like she was choking me. She wanted me to close my lips around the tool but I couldn't because they were numbed so much. I felt drool drip from my mouth to down the side of my neck. Please be done! Please be done!
I was ready to jump out of my skin when he finally said he was all done. I thanked him even though I hated him for hurting me. I paid to be tortured and I thanked him for it! Well, he was nice overall.
I scheduled my next appointment for two weeks later. At least it will be less teeth next time. On the drive home my mouth began to hurt. Later I ate lunch, took pain killers, and took a nap.
I am NOT looking forward to my next visit!
Sunday, July 20, 2014
Trains, Coffee, Books, & Church
Hana isn't your typical girly girl. At age one she was given v tech cars and now she has Thomas Trains. She even watches episodes of Thomas. Hana is obsessed with her trains! She puts them together (they have a magnet on each end), pushes them along, and then separates them. She makes train sounds. She knows most of their names. Friday morning I couldn't get her to go outside unless I allowed her to take a couple of trains with us. It's fun to see her taking an interest in trains.
I bought her Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You Hear? book and she loves it. I got it because it was the first book my sister, Katie read/memorized. She also has a Spot the dog book where Spot's mom is looking around the house for Spot. I make the animal sounds for each animal she finds. She's learning hippo and alligator.
So I've gone a week without drinking coffee and limiting my juice and sugar intake. I was really tired. I'm drinking flavored water and plain water. I bought a Pure water filter for my casita. I also ordered some water supplement drops recommended by my friend, Alison. I look forward to seeing how they help improve my health.
I've been feeling the urge to read scriptures and go to the LDS church. I wanted to go today but I couldn't get a car. I haven't read anything yet but I plan on doing so.
I mentioned before that I met a nice guy at church in SLC back in June. What I didn't mention was how significant it was for me. Honesty I haven't been attracted to anyone in years. I've missed obsessing whether the guy I like likes me too. It makes me feel like a member of the human race again. I'm looking forward to visiting in August. I get lonely here.
I bought her Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You Hear? book and she loves it. I got it because it was the first book my sister, Katie read/memorized. She also has a Spot the dog book where Spot's mom is looking around the house for Spot. I make the animal sounds for each animal she finds. She's learning hippo and alligator.
So I've gone a week without drinking coffee and limiting my juice and sugar intake. I was really tired. I'm drinking flavored water and plain water. I bought a Pure water filter for my casita. I also ordered some water supplement drops recommended by my friend, Alison. I look forward to seeing how they help improve my health.
I've been feeling the urge to read scriptures and go to the LDS church. I wanted to go today but I couldn't get a car. I haven't read anything yet but I plan on doing so.
I mentioned before that I met a nice guy at church in SLC back in June. What I didn't mention was how significant it was for me. Honesty I haven't been attracted to anyone in years. I've missed obsessing whether the guy I like likes me too. It makes me feel like a member of the human race again. I'm looking forward to visiting in August. I get lonely here.
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
Dentist Woes
I bought a Groupon to see a local dentist and left work a half hour early yesterday to get a cleaning, x ray, and exam. After enduring a train crossing and 5pm traffic, I ended up late to the wrong location. I went in and there was a hispanic couple and the spanish news on, no receptionist. I looked at the door and that's when I realized I went to the wrong location. I was 25 minutes late by the time I arrived to the right location.
The x ray was first and it was my least favorite. I always gag on those things they make you bite down on and hold while they take the picture. The first one actually felt like it pierced my gums. I was relieved when that was over and I could rest in a chair and find something to watch.
The dentist came in and we chatted for a bit. He was easy to talk to which was great. Then he looked at the x rays while I said, "I hope I don't have cavities again" followed by something to the effect of "too bad". He counted and showed me 8 cavities! Then as he cleaned my teeth he found two more!
We discussed brushing teeth softly and in a rounded motion and using floss to scrape each side of each tooth as well as flossing the end teeth in the very back. He scraped my teeth and I had some sensitivity there. He finished by giving me an antiseptic syringe applied directly to the teeth and said I couldn't eat for 30 minutes.
I was a bit disoriented after leaving the office and it took me at least five minutes to find the car. I actually forgot if I drove Angie's car or Jeff's car to the dentist. I looked for Jeff's car and then saw a woman getting into a white car like Angie's and eventually found the car.
So now I have to spend $1300 on fillings in two more visits! From this experience I am re-thinking my diet. This morning I didn't drink coffee as I usually do. I had an Emergen-C instead. I brushed and flossed. I drank water throughout the day. In was very tired. I tried napping while Hana napped but I couldn't fall asleep so I just laid there with my eyes closed. I eventually felt more awake. I don't know if it was the lack of caffeine or if I'm coming down with something. I was also cold.
I'm going to try to like water again and cut sugar as much as possible out of my diet. Wish me luck!
The x ray was first and it was my least favorite. I always gag on those things they make you bite down on and hold while they take the picture. The first one actually felt like it pierced my gums. I was relieved when that was over and I could rest in a chair and find something to watch.
The dentist came in and we chatted for a bit. He was easy to talk to which was great. Then he looked at the x rays while I said, "I hope I don't have cavities again" followed by something to the effect of "too bad". He counted and showed me 8 cavities! Then as he cleaned my teeth he found two more!
We discussed brushing teeth softly and in a rounded motion and using floss to scrape each side of each tooth as well as flossing the end teeth in the very back. He scraped my teeth and I had some sensitivity there. He finished by giving me an antiseptic syringe applied directly to the teeth and said I couldn't eat for 30 minutes.
I was a bit disoriented after leaving the office and it took me at least five minutes to find the car. I actually forgot if I drove Angie's car or Jeff's car to the dentist. I looked for Jeff's car and then saw a woman getting into a white car like Angie's and eventually found the car.
So now I have to spend $1300 on fillings in two more visits! From this experience I am re-thinking my diet. This morning I didn't drink coffee as I usually do. I had an Emergen-C instead. I brushed and flossed. I drank water throughout the day. In was very tired. I tried napping while Hana napped but I couldn't fall asleep so I just laid there with my eyes closed. I eventually felt more awake. I don't know if it was the lack of caffeine or if I'm coming down with something. I was also cold.
I'm going to try to like water again and cut sugar as much as possible out of my diet. Wish me luck!
Friday, July 11, 2014
Week Highlights with Hana
July 4th I had dinner with Hana's family. We ate hot dogs, deviled eggs, chips, beans, and had root beer floats for dessert. Later I returned to my room and waited to hear fire crackers but the night wore on in silence. I kind of liked it.
This week Hana has learned the phrase, "Thank you". For me, it started Monday when I put a safari hat on her head and a bug collector around her neck with a net in one hand and a magnifying glass in the other and took her on a bug safari in the front yard. Hana said, "Thank you, Erie!" several times. I had previously placed 10 plastic cute bugs from Amazon in the yard and helped her find them like we were on an Easter Egg hunt. Then we moved into the shade to examine the bugs. There were two of each: ladybug, ant, centipede, and roach. We were only in the sun a few minutes but I was already dripping with sweat. Hana didn't understand the magnifying glass right away but she enjoyed the activity.
It's been so hot this week. Both Monday and Tuesday I had to change into a new shirt before 11am because I was sweating so much. Wednesday I had to change my shirt again but that was due to a coffee stain. I shower at night except when I'm too tired because morning showers seem so pointless.
The thank you's continue even until today while we were at the grocery store. I grabbed a bag of romaine lettuce to go with dinner and let her hold it. "Thank you, Erie." Silly kid. (She thanks her parents too.)
I also learned that Hana knows the word freckle. We were sitting side by side on the couch and she touched my arm where there was a large freckle and said "freckle". She is also opting to sit on the big potty with an adjustment seat over her little potty right on the floor. She's not afraid of the potty!
Hana is not a perfect angel though I do describe her as one. Like any other child she does have temper tantrums. This afternoon for example, I saw her wake up on the monitor. I didn't rush to get her because I wanted her to finish waking up. I turned the monitor off, left my casita, went into the house, and entered her room. She was lying down. At first I thought she was pretending. She softly said my name as I rubbed her back. I opened the curtains and opened the blinds and all of the sudden she starts crying.
You know that Snickers commercial that says, "You aren't you when you're hungry"? Well it's like that for her but when she's still sleepy. She starts off by not wanting you to pick her up but she will cry if you leave her alone in her crib. Then I do pick her up and she continues to cry and shake her legs and say "down". She doesn't really want to be down so once she is on the ground she will say "up". This game of up and down continued for about five minutes. I took her into the living room where her gee gees (blankets) were lying on the couch. She wasn't ready to be put down yet but said "gee gee" so I grabbed one and held her as she held and stroked it. After a minute she calms down enough to say "Tygee" which means Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood, her favorite show. Now I can put her down on the couch, wrap her in gee gee love, choose a Daniel Tiger episode from the DVR, give her juice, and relax. It usually takes the entire episode before she becomes Hana again.
I bought dinner at Safeway for all of us. Angie and Jeff have provided me with enough dinners that it was time for me to return the favor. It was just fried chicken and side dishes from the deli but they appreciated it. I like eating dinner like part of the family instead of alone in my room.
Tomorrow I am getting a massage via a Groupon. Cheers for the weekend!
This week Hana has learned the phrase, "Thank you". For me, it started Monday when I put a safari hat on her head and a bug collector around her neck with a net in one hand and a magnifying glass in the other and took her on a bug safari in the front yard. Hana said, "Thank you, Erie!" several times. I had previously placed 10 plastic cute bugs from Amazon in the yard and helped her find them like we were on an Easter Egg hunt. Then we moved into the shade to examine the bugs. There were two of each: ladybug, ant, centipede, and roach. We were only in the sun a few minutes but I was already dripping with sweat. Hana didn't understand the magnifying glass right away but she enjoyed the activity.
It's been so hot this week. Both Monday and Tuesday I had to change into a new shirt before 11am because I was sweating so much. Wednesday I had to change my shirt again but that was due to a coffee stain. I shower at night except when I'm too tired because morning showers seem so pointless.
The thank you's continue even until today while we were at the grocery store. I grabbed a bag of romaine lettuce to go with dinner and let her hold it. "Thank you, Erie." Silly kid. (She thanks her parents too.)
I also learned that Hana knows the word freckle. We were sitting side by side on the couch and she touched my arm where there was a large freckle and said "freckle". She is also opting to sit on the big potty with an adjustment seat over her little potty right on the floor. She's not afraid of the potty!
Hana is not a perfect angel though I do describe her as one. Like any other child she does have temper tantrums. This afternoon for example, I saw her wake up on the monitor. I didn't rush to get her because I wanted her to finish waking up. I turned the monitor off, left my casita, went into the house, and entered her room. She was lying down. At first I thought she was pretending. She softly said my name as I rubbed her back. I opened the curtains and opened the blinds and all of the sudden she starts crying.
You know that Snickers commercial that says, "You aren't you when you're hungry"? Well it's like that for her but when she's still sleepy. She starts off by not wanting you to pick her up but she will cry if you leave her alone in her crib. Then I do pick her up and she continues to cry and shake her legs and say "down". She doesn't really want to be down so once she is on the ground she will say "up". This game of up and down continued for about five minutes. I took her into the living room where her gee gees (blankets) were lying on the couch. She wasn't ready to be put down yet but said "gee gee" so I grabbed one and held her as she held and stroked it. After a minute she calms down enough to say "Tygee" which means Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood, her favorite show. Now I can put her down on the couch, wrap her in gee gee love, choose a Daniel Tiger episode from the DVR, give her juice, and relax. It usually takes the entire episode before she becomes Hana again.
I bought dinner at Safeway for all of us. Angie and Jeff have provided me with enough dinners that it was time for me to return the favor. It was just fried chicken and side dishes from the deli but they appreciated it. I like eating dinner like part of the family instead of alone in my room.
Tomorrow I am getting a massage via a Groupon. Cheers for the weekend!
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
Splat!
This morning while Angie was getting ready for work, I was playing toys with Hana. Hana looked at me and said, "Poop". She is potty training so I took her to the bathroom, removed her diaper and pants, and put her on her little potty. There was pee in her diaper so I threw it away. She had me sit on the big potty. We sang the ABC song and read an Elmo book.
Nothing happened in the potty and Hana stood up so I picked her up and began walking her to her room to put on a new diaper. I walked maybe two steps and heard a SPLAT! I turned and saw poop on the floor! I turned the other way and saw more poop!
I wasn't sure if I stepped in it. I called Angie and told her to keep the dogs away. I rushed Hana to the changing table and put a new diaper on her. Hana was concerned about what she did. I told her it was okay and that I would clean it up. Actually, Angie volunteered to clean it up. She had paper towels and clorox wipes in hand. I looked at my socks and saw a big brown spot on one sock so I took it off.
Hana and I kept playing while Angie cleaned up. I asked her if the smell was worse because she was pregnant but she said no. Angie is big on cleaning. She placed my dirty sock in a plastic bag.
I'm glad Angie was home when it happened. I can't imagine trying to keep Hana and the dogs out of the poop while trying to clean it. I'm also glad that I didn't hold Hana under her bum when it happened! I've learned my lesson. I will put her back in her current diaper or change her diaper in the bathroom.
Nothing happened in the potty and Hana stood up so I picked her up and began walking her to her room to put on a new diaper. I walked maybe two steps and heard a SPLAT! I turned and saw poop on the floor! I turned the other way and saw more poop!
I wasn't sure if I stepped in it. I called Angie and told her to keep the dogs away. I rushed Hana to the changing table and put a new diaper on her. Hana was concerned about what she did. I told her it was okay and that I would clean it up. Actually, Angie volunteered to clean it up. She had paper towels and clorox wipes in hand. I looked at my socks and saw a big brown spot on one sock so I took it off.
Hana and I kept playing while Angie cleaned up. I asked her if the smell was worse because she was pregnant but she said no. Angie is big on cleaning. She placed my dirty sock in a plastic bag.
I'm glad Angie was home when it happened. I can't imagine trying to keep Hana and the dogs out of the poop while trying to clean it. I'm also glad that I didn't hold Hana under her bum when it happened! I've learned my lesson. I will put her back in her current diaper or change her diaper in the bathroom.
Sunday, June 22, 2014
The Truth About Anti-Mormons
**Please continue reading this with an open mind and with the understanding that I mean no offense.**
The Relief Society lesson from last week visiting Salt Lake City was on truth. What is truth? The definition was given in Christian terms- truth is in the Bible and Book of Mormon, truth is told by the prophet and other leaders of the church. This didn't quite settle with me because what we are told and what we learn from the church becomes what we believe, not what we know to be true. The dictionary defines truth as "a verified or indisputable fact, proposition, principle, or the like: ie mathematical truths". We have no way of proving that anything we believe is true.
In Alma 32:21 we read, "And now as I said concerning faith — faith is not to have a perfect knowledge of things; therefore if ye have faith ye hope for things which are not seen, which are true." Maybe I am just getting hung up on the wording but I would prefer that it read "which may be true" instead. As an example, I like to believe that there is a Heaven and that it looks like Carealot with rainbow beams, care bears, sleeping on clouds, and looking down on Earth to make sure people still care. I hope for this, I could begin to have faith that Heaven will be like I've described, I have not seen Heaven, so can my version of Heaven be true? Does believing in Heaven make Heaven real and true?
Back to the lesson discussion, one word which was uttered a couple of times in class really surprised me and that word was Anti-Mormon. I thought that term wasn't being used anymore. The only person I know who really believes in Anti-Mormons is my mom. She really believes that there is a group of people out there who's sole purpose in life is to bring about the destruction of the LDS church.
Has anyone done a Google search on Anti-Mormonism? Well I have. According to Wikapedia the term was first used in the 1830s after the publication of Eber D. Howe's 1834 book Mormonism Unvailed. The publication was first labeled Anti-Christian and then changed to Anti-Mormon. Anti-Mormonism is defined as discrimination, persecution, hostility or prejudice directed at members of the Latter Day Saint movement, particularly The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). Today, the term is primarily used as a descriptor for persons and publications that oppose the LDS Church, although its precise scope has been the subject of some debate. It is used by some to describe anything perceived as critical of the LDS Church
Stephen Cannon shared, "It is also helpful to know that Mormons are a group of people united around a belief system. Therefore, to be "anti-Mormon" is to be against people. Christians who desire to communicate the Gospel of Jesus Christ to Mormons are never to come against people of any stripe. Yes, evangelical Christians do have strong disagreements with Mormonism, but the argument is with a belief system and not a people. The LDS people are no better or no worse than any other group of people. Any dispute is to be a disagreement with the "ism", not the "Mormon".
Continuing on the web search results, there are a couple "Facts About Mormons" sites followed by exmormon sites, including, "Why I Left The LDS Church". Exmormons are obviously former members of the church. I've been on their site and they share their stories of why they left and offer support to one another. Yes, sometimes it is bitter but this site gives them a place to share their feelings with others who can relate and sympathize.
I came across an article on this same web search. I want to share some of what was written with you.
"I think it's time for the church and its members to abandon use of the term "anti-Mormon" for a few reasons. First of all, it is disingenuous and manipulative of the church leaders to encourage members to discover truth for themselves while also teaching that members should only trust "approved" resources. The truth should be evident, regardless of what sources are used. It is also misleading to categorize things as anti-Mormon when so much of what is discussed is verifiable in church resources.
Another reason the term "anti-Mormon" is harmful is because it is associated with a feeling of persecution among the members. They often feel like they are being attacked when someone presents information to them that is contrary to what they've been taught. An awful lot of feelings get hurt needlessly simply because of a misconception. If you can discuss differing views about politics without taking it personally when someone disagrees with you, then the same should be true of discussing religious beliefs. Disagreeing with an idea or a belief is not the same as hating the person who espouses those beliefs."
http://www.thefledglingstale.com/2013/07/dispelling-anti-mormon-myth.html#.U6ezSvldVQE
I used to be LDS. My friends are LDS. I have gotten to the point where I can be comfortable going to church again but I cannot abandon what I have learned on the outside. I do not consider myself to be an Anti-Mormon because it is an ugly and outdated word. I have my opinions but I also have love and understanding and compassion for others. I don't seek to destroy anyone's beliefs. If anything, I sometimes wish that I didn't believe what I believe now. Ignorance may be one of the top killers in this world, but it can also be bliss.
The Relief Society lesson from last week visiting Salt Lake City was on truth. What is truth? The definition was given in Christian terms- truth is in the Bible and Book of Mormon, truth is told by the prophet and other leaders of the church. This didn't quite settle with me because what we are told and what we learn from the church becomes what we believe, not what we know to be true. The dictionary defines truth as "a verified or indisputable fact, proposition, principle, or the like: ie mathematical truths". We have no way of proving that anything we believe is true.
In Alma 32:21 we read, "And now as I said concerning faith — faith is not to have a perfect knowledge of things; therefore if ye have faith ye hope for things which are not seen, which are true." Maybe I am just getting hung up on the wording but I would prefer that it read "which may be true" instead. As an example, I like to believe that there is a Heaven and that it looks like Carealot with rainbow beams, care bears, sleeping on clouds, and looking down on Earth to make sure people still care. I hope for this, I could begin to have faith that Heaven will be like I've described, I have not seen Heaven, so can my version of Heaven be true? Does believing in Heaven make Heaven real and true?
Back to the lesson discussion, one word which was uttered a couple of times in class really surprised me and that word was Anti-Mormon. I thought that term wasn't being used anymore. The only person I know who really believes in Anti-Mormons is my mom. She really believes that there is a group of people out there who's sole purpose in life is to bring about the destruction of the LDS church.
Has anyone done a Google search on Anti-Mormonism? Well I have. According to Wikapedia the term was first used in the 1830s after the publication of Eber D. Howe's 1834 book Mormonism Unvailed. The publication was first labeled Anti-Christian and then changed to Anti-Mormon. Anti-Mormonism is defined as discrimination, persecution, hostility or prejudice directed at members of the Latter Day Saint movement, particularly The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). Today, the term is primarily used as a descriptor for persons and publications that oppose the LDS Church, although its precise scope has been the subject of some debate. It is used by some to describe anything perceived as critical of the LDS Church
Stephen Cannon shared, "It is also helpful to know that Mormons are a group of people united around a belief system. Therefore, to be "anti-Mormon" is to be against people. Christians who desire to communicate the Gospel of Jesus Christ to Mormons are never to come against people of any stripe. Yes, evangelical Christians do have strong disagreements with Mormonism, but the argument is with a belief system and not a people. The LDS people are no better or no worse than any other group of people. Any dispute is to be a disagreement with the "ism", not the "Mormon".
Continuing on the web search results, there are a couple "Facts About Mormons" sites followed by exmormon sites, including, "Why I Left The LDS Church". Exmormons are obviously former members of the church. I've been on their site and they share their stories of why they left and offer support to one another. Yes, sometimes it is bitter but this site gives them a place to share their feelings with others who can relate and sympathize.
I came across an article on this same web search. I want to share some of what was written with you.
"I think it's time for the church and its members to abandon use of the term "anti-Mormon" for a few reasons. First of all, it is disingenuous and manipulative of the church leaders to encourage members to discover truth for themselves while also teaching that members should only trust "approved" resources. The truth should be evident, regardless of what sources are used. It is also misleading to categorize things as anti-Mormon when so much of what is discussed is verifiable in church resources.
Another reason the term "anti-Mormon" is harmful is because it is associated with a feeling of persecution among the members. They often feel like they are being attacked when someone presents information to them that is contrary to what they've been taught. An awful lot of feelings get hurt needlessly simply because of a misconception. If you can discuss differing views about politics without taking it personally when someone disagrees with you, then the same should be true of discussing religious beliefs. Disagreeing with an idea or a belief is not the same as hating the person who espouses those beliefs."
http://www.thefledglingstale.com/2013/07/dispelling-anti-mormon-myth.html#.U6ezSvldVQE
I used to be LDS. My friends are LDS. I have gotten to the point where I can be comfortable going to church again but I cannot abandon what I have learned on the outside. I do not consider myself to be an Anti-Mormon because it is an ugly and outdated word. I have my opinions but I also have love and understanding and compassion for others. I don't seek to destroy anyone's beliefs. If anything, I sometimes wish that I didn't believe what I believe now. Ignorance may be one of the top killers in this world, but it can also be bliss.
My Weekend In Salt Lake City
I expected it to feel different being back in Salt Lake City after my seven month absence. It didn't, though. I felt right at home like I belonged there.
My friend, Alison picked me up from the airport and then off we went to have fun. We went out to lunch at T.G.I.Fridays. Yummy. Then we went to the arcade where we enjoyed playing games like Skee-Ball and Wheel of Fortune and shooting hoops. We also played a video game where we got to shoot evil clowns (wait, aren't they all evil?) and save innocent lives. Well, most lives we saved but I did take out a few. Hey, the world is overpopulated! We each bought a candy treat with our tickets and headed off to Karaoke Cafe.
Karaoke Cafe has become one of my favorite places to let loose and have fun. I love that it's open as early as 3pm when I can pretty much have the microphone to myself. I learned that the DJ I was used to had moved away but there was still a couple of familiar faces there. Alison and I sang lots of duets including "Hard Knock Life", "It's Gonna Be Me" and "You Rock My World". It was so fun being with Alison again!
Around 7pm we went to Shara's house where I would be staying for the remainder of my trip. Shara and Carlos were there and we all talked and just enjoyed each other's company.
On Saturday morning my wonderful hostess, Shara made me breakfast. Pears, buttered toast, and cottage cheese. Yum! Later we met with some of her friends in the church parking lot to carpool to a Thai food restaurant in Sugarhouse. I had never had Thai food before but I was open to the experience. We all ordered different versions of Pho. Pho is a soup like dish with while noodles, broth, and whatever meat you choose and sides of herbs and vegetable garnishes. I ordered Pho with steak and shrimp.
My friend, Alison picked me up from the airport and then off we went to have fun. We went out to lunch at T.G.I.Fridays. Yummy. Then we went to the arcade where we enjoyed playing games like Skee-Ball and Wheel of Fortune and shooting hoops. We also played a video game where we got to shoot evil clowns (wait, aren't they all evil?) and save innocent lives. Well, most lives we saved but I did take out a few. Hey, the world is overpopulated! We each bought a candy treat with our tickets and headed off to Karaoke Cafe.
Karaoke Cafe has become one of my favorite places to let loose and have fun. I love that it's open as early as 3pm when I can pretty much have the microphone to myself. I learned that the DJ I was used to had moved away but there was still a couple of familiar faces there. Alison and I sang lots of duets including "Hard Knock Life", "It's Gonna Be Me" and "You Rock My World". It was so fun being with Alison again!
Around 7pm we went to Shara's house where I would be staying for the remainder of my trip. Shara and Carlos were there and we all talked and just enjoyed each other's company.
On Saturday morning my wonderful hostess, Shara made me breakfast. Pears, buttered toast, and cottage cheese. Yum! Later we met with some of her friends in the church parking lot to carpool to a Thai food restaurant in Sugarhouse. I had never had Thai food before but I was open to the experience. We all ordered different versions of Pho. Pho is a soup like dish with while noodles, broth, and whatever meat you choose and sides of herbs and vegetable garnishes. I ordered Pho with steak and shrimp.
To be honest, I didn't care for the flavor of the broth but I got used to it as I ate. I had trouble wrapping the noodles around my spoon. I began to eat them like a child, spooning what I could into my mouth, then biting away the excess back into the bowl. The shrimp was good but the steak was largely sliced and I had no way to cut them smaller. Instead, I folded each piece twice over, dunked it into my soy sauce, then ate it. For being in a broth, the steak was a bit dry. I quickly followed each bite of steak with a spoonful of broth.
I'm glad that I at least tried something new and got to meet some of Shara's friends. I was so tired afterwards so as soon as we got back to her place I took a nap. We all meet up at the movie theater just before 5pm as planned to see Maleficent. I had purchased a large butter popcorn to share with Nancy and her girls who hadn't arrived yet but after I returned from the bathroom I saw Nancy had bought a large popcorn for her and her girls already. So, I had a lot of popcorn and no one to share it!
Debbie, Shara, Carlos, Nancy, Evelyn, Eliza and I sat down in a center row for the movie. Then I realized that Alison would have no place to sit with us once she arrived. Shara and Carlos offered to move a row back which was very nice. Alison arrived and found us. Other than Eliza asking her mom questions during the movie I had a really nice time! The movie was charming and Angelina Jolie was interesting to watch in such an unusual character for her. I really liked the twist on the old tale, especially how feministic it was.
After the movie Shara and Carlos left to prepare for the bonfire and smores night at her house and Debbie had to go home. I rode with Alison with Nancy and her girls driving close behind to Little Caesars to get dinner and then on to a nearby park. It was fun playing with the girls and trying to chase Nancy (she is so fast!). I went down the slide a few times.
Daniel joined us for smores night at Shara's house. When we got there, Shara had the fire going and the chairs and fixings all laid out. Evelyn really went to town making herself the perfect smore! She enjoyed burnt marshmallows on her smores. She also made a bratwurst to go. Eliza was more patient with her marshmallow, getting it to burn and puff up just right. One of her neighbors was having a party that night too and they decided to share their music with us. That night I realized that the song by The Police, "Every Breath You Take" is a song about a stalker. Maybe one day I will sing this at Karaoke Cafe and dedicate it to the boy I'm stalking, if every there is one!
Sunday I went to church with Shara and her friends. We carpooled there. Her ward is by the U. On the bulletin and other signs in the building I noticed it was called the Union Fort ward instead of the Fort Union ward. When I asked why, a girl told me it's so no one shortens it to F.U.! Clever.
They had their service set up for Relief Society first and Sacrament last. I prefer it the other way around because Sacrament Meeting is the longest so I like to tackle the longest hurdle first. The people there were very nice and friendly. I had no trouble asking for directions and a woman in Relief Society gave me a pice of gum after I asked Shara if she had a breath mint. So nice!
I was uncomfortable in my dress. Being a bigger girl, I had to keep my legs squeezed together so I could sit like a lady. I could feel my legs getting irritated from the constant rubbing. Standing up and walking about was a great relief!
In between Relief Society and Sunday School, Shara introduced me to a nice and good looking guy new to her ward. I was surprised by how friendly he was. We all went to the same Sunday School class and he sat next to me. He showed me how to upload LDS materials to my phone. I took turns looking at his scriptures and Shara's as we learned about the story of Ruth in class.
For Sacrament Meeting we sat near the back in hard folding chairs. I at least had the relief of no one sitting in front of me so I was naughty and put my feet up on the chair. After service I got my bag and rushed to the bathroom to change. It was slightly embarrassing to walk around the church in jeans, a top, and a jacket but at least I was modest.
Shara and her carpool friends took me to the airport. We hugged and I waved goodbye. It was a short trip but I sure packed a lot of fun into it and I'm so glad I have such wonderful friends! Until next time!
Annoyances In Phoenix
1. Helicopters. They used to be a random sight in the sky for me but since moving to Phoenix, they have become the daily norm. They like to hover over your neighborhood, sometimes in pairs. And they occur at night too! When I hear them, Angie checks in on me to make sure my door is locked because it is most likely the police helicopters looking for a suspect!
As if Geico wasn't getting enough advertising in...
As if Geico wasn't getting enough advertising in...
2. Bees. I know bees are everywhere but there are flower bushes right outside of my casita and bees frequent them daily. I risk getting stung every time I step in and out. For a while the bushes appeared to be dying and a moss was growing over it. Then suddenly the moss was gone, the flowers were back in bloom, and the bees reappeared!
The most fearful bee for me is Arizona's carpenter bee. It's huge like a honey bee but all black. It swarmed right in front of me one day as if warning me off and I jumped back in fright and Angie saw and thought I was doing a dance move or something.
Now this is a picture of one from online. I wouldn't dare hold one!
Here is some info on the carpenter bee. "The carpenter bee ranks as an important pollinator of the flowering plants, particularly those with large open fragrant blooms. Diligently, if unwittingly, it gathers pollen grains from the male parts of blossoms and delivers them to the female parts of other blossoms (of the same species), triggering the process of fertilization and seed formation. As a reward, it wittingly takes pollen, nectars and oils that it uses to set a banquet table for its larvae. The carpenter bee contributes substantially to the annual showcase of wildflowers in our desert basins and mountain flanks."
I have also read that the male carpenter bee has no stinger but the female has. Based on the description I know my bee is female. I read that she won't sting unless she is defending herself from being hurt. I am not taking my chances!
3. 7th Avenue No Left Turns
There is a median lane which is usually used only for cars to get in and out of traffic. However, I have observed that between 6-9pm as stated on the sign, the median lane becomes another traveling lane for cars. To make matters more complicated, during that time, no cars may turn left at intersections off of this street! I was going to the mall and I had to make three rights in order to get to my destination. Ridiculous!
4. Playgrounds. You would think that being in Phoenix where triple degree weather occurs every year that they would create fully shaded covers for their outdoor playgrounds. Not so! I tried taking Hana to a nearby park (about a twenty minute walk each way) on a day that was under triple digits and when I saw the deserted park and felt the slide, I knew we couldn't stay. Way too hot! The next day Angie had me take Hana to another park in Encanto but there the swings were completely uncovered and the main playground only slightly shaded in the middle! I didn't like disappointing Hana or having her out in that hot sun.
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