We've been mostly lucky with all the recalls this year. None of Emmett's favorites have been among the millions of toys recalled. Until now, that is. Monday night, blissfully unaware, I walked by the recall board at Emmett's daycare. The fact that they have an entire huge classroom sized bulletin board dedicated to the latest recalls is sad enough. Anyway - as I walked by, there was Monkey, staring right at me. Emmett has always called Curious George 'Monkey'. I think it's because he has a hard time saying 'curious' (sounds like serious) - which is really quite funny when speaking of Curious George. Imagine a little boy calling him Serious George - not exactly the theme of the cartoon, huh?
So last night, I asked Emmett if I could take Monkey for the night. Then I looked up the Marvel recall list and found that yes, Emmett's beloved Monkey was on the list. We've had it a year - even washed it. And it has always been one of Emmett's top three stuffed animals. Right up there with little Moby and Pooh Bear. Generally, I'm not that anxious about recalls - but this sweet looking monkey has slept under Emmett's arm for over a year - almost every night. Monkey even flew in our suitcase on vacation. I knew we couldn't keep it, and putting it up on the shelf would never work.
Tonight as we prepared for bedtime, Emmett asked if he could have Monkey back. I'd been dreading this moment since finding Monkey on the recall list. How do you explain that a group of adults who should really know better, used chemicals proven to cause health effects, on a child's toy. So, I told him the truth - "Monkey had some chemicals on him that might make you sick. So we have to send Monkey away so he doesn't make you sick." Emmett's little eyes welled up and he fought back tears. I said it would be ok to miss Monkey, that sometimes we have to say goodbye to things even when we don't want to. I even said we'd look for a new Monkey for Christmas (already on that mission!). But in his little heart, I know his first Monkey will be the most important one for him. And I really wish I could feel like a good mom and still leave Monkey to sleep under Emmett's arm, but I can't. And Craig tells me I think too much about it. So maybe I do!
Part of me wonders if we're all over reacting. I'm sure my toys as a kid probably contained high levels of something bad. Wasn't there an M&M food additive which ended up being dangerous? I'd never let Emmett chew on paint chips - but at which point does it become a major overreaction? I mean this toy had been tested by an independent firm 3 times since it's release to retail. All three tests passed for lead levels. On the four test they tested surface coatings (not sure what those would be) and found that it failed.
At any rate, I now have the joy of finding a solitary moment to box Monkey up and ship him back to his manufacture to meet a fiery demise. Goodbye Monkey - and good luck.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Post Thanksgiving Review
Ah! I've mostly recovered from the fully-belly overeating binge I indulged in this weekend. A good holiday with family. I've learned everything from the fact that I have a very low foot arch to which presidential holds more of my values on the 'issues'.
To react to the low foot arch problem - I plan to follow my cousin-in-law's husband's advice and go buy a pair of New Balance running shoes before I start training for the triathlon that I say I want to do in August '08. I've always wanted to do a Tri, and this seems like a likely one to do since it's basically on my back door step. But slight problem... I hate running. I suppose I'll have to cross that bridge (literally) when I get to it.
I normally stay far far away from politics with family, but there is this pretty cool website which asks you a series of questions and then gives you the top 3 candidates which hold those same views. Here is the one I did: Candidate Match
What is also fun about this survey is watching the candidates' heads as they rise and fall according to your answers. Anyway - the whole family took the survey (correction... the whole family of voting age!), and we had a nice discussion afterwards.
At any rate - take a look - see who you match up with. Doesn't mean you have to vote for them! At any rate - Happy Thanksgiving!
To react to the low foot arch problem - I plan to follow my cousin-in-law's husband's advice and go buy a pair of New Balance running shoes before I start training for the triathlon that I say I want to do in August '08. I've always wanted to do a Tri, and this seems like a likely one to do since it's basically on my back door step. But slight problem... I hate running. I suppose I'll have to cross that bridge (literally) when I get to it.
I normally stay far far away from politics with family, but there is this pretty cool website which asks you a series of questions and then gives you the top 3 candidates which hold those same views. Here is the one I did: Candidate Match
What is also fun about this survey is watching the candidates' heads as they rise and fall according to your answers. Anyway - the whole family took the survey (correction... the whole family of voting age!), and we had a nice discussion afterwards.
At any rate - take a look - see who you match up with. Doesn't mean you have to vote for them! At any rate - Happy Thanksgiving!
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Creating the iPod generation
I'm not sure if we encouraged Emmett's love of music or if he came home with that. But he loves music. And thanks to my awesome bro & sil, we got some really great music for him before he came home. But as any parent knows - eventually you just can't listen to Ladybug Picnic anymore. Now consider our hour and a half commute to and from daycare (thank you construction!) - and you can understand that if I have to get Reduce,Reuse,Recycle in my head, I'd prefer to not have it there close to bedtime.
So in order keep Emmett's music in his daily life, and still keep my sanity (which is light to begin with), I relinquished my iPod shuffle to kids music. I loaded all his favorites like "The Land of Nod" vol1 & 2, Yellow Bus, "Bacbyardigans" CDs into the shuffle and taught him how to use it. It's a great little distraction (way better than an in-car DVD). Except for one small thing...
You know how when you ask someone a question and they have headphones on - they shout? Well, try that with a 4yr old - but switch it around to be he's asking you questions and at full scream - in the confinements of a moving vehicle! And the existance of the shuffle commute has created this conversation.
Emmett: "Oh Omma, I've been waiting for this song"
Me: "Oh, yeah?"
Emmett: "uh-huh, cause it's my fahhvorrrite"
Me: "Oh, is it Yellow Bus?"
Emmett: "no it's this song"
ME: "Which song"
Emmett: "The song on this thing" (pointing to the shuffle)
Me:"I know it's the song on the suffle - but which song?"
Emmett: "This one, it's my favorite"
Me: "But I thought your favorite was Yellow Bus, what does this song sound like?"
Emmett: "I don't know"
Me: "OoooKay then"
Still haven't a clue which song he was referring to, but I'm glad it's his new favorite!
So in order keep Emmett's music in his daily life, and still keep my sanity (which is light to begin with), I relinquished my iPod shuffle to kids music. I loaded all his favorites like "The Land of Nod" vol1 & 2, Yellow Bus, "Bacbyardigans" CDs into the shuffle and taught him how to use it. It's a great little distraction (way better than an in-car DVD). Except for one small thing...
You know how when you ask someone a question and they have headphones on - they shout? Well, try that with a 4yr old - but switch it around to be he's asking you questions and at full scream - in the confinements of a moving vehicle! And the existance of the shuffle commute has created this conversation.
Emmett: "Oh Omma, I've been waiting for this song"
Me: "Oh, yeah?"
Emmett: "uh-huh, cause it's my fahhvorrrite"
Me: "Oh, is it Yellow Bus?"
Emmett: "no it's this song"
ME: "Which song"
Emmett: "The song on this thing" (pointing to the shuffle)
Me:"I know it's the song on the suffle - but which song?"
Emmett: "This one, it's my favorite"
Me: "But I thought your favorite was Yellow Bus, what does this song sound like?"
Emmett: "I don't know"
Me: "OoooKay then"
Still haven't a clue which song he was referring to, but I'm glad it's his new favorite!
Saturday, November 03, 2007
I know, I know I promised Tow Mater Halloween pictures. But wouldn't you know it - I took the camera and didn't take one picture of Emmett? Not one! So I've asked Halimony (Grandma) to send me the pics she took. But I can't seem to copy them into the blog. Oh bother!
Plus! We've been a house of sickies this past week. Emmett got a nice cough/head cold thingy which meant he didn't sleep at all on Monday night. Tuesday we attacked said cough with cough medicine (Delsym rocks!) and a vaporizor. (Or course there was a slight overdosing of cough medicine, but we won't go into which parent...) So Tuesday night Emmett slept great (no wonder). Only then did Craig and I begin to show signs of our own illnesses. Oh the joys of fall! Hot Apple Cider, Fallen Leaves, Pumpkins and head colds!
So I promise once my computer cooperates with the pictures - I'll post them. But here are a few of Emmett and Moby at the beach.
"I coulda been a show dog, see?"
Yes, that's snot running down his nose. Priority of motherhood 1.take picture 2. wipe nose! (got to work on switching those around!)
The finishline judge was unable to determine the winner of this race because the dog took him out. =)
Plus! We've been a house of sickies this past week. Emmett got a nice cough/head cold thingy which meant he didn't sleep at all on Monday night. Tuesday we attacked said cough with cough medicine (Delsym rocks!) and a vaporizor. (Or course there was a slight overdosing of cough medicine, but we won't go into which parent...) So Tuesday night Emmett slept great (no wonder). Only then did Craig and I begin to show signs of our own illnesses. Oh the joys of fall! Hot Apple Cider, Fallen Leaves, Pumpkins and head colds!
So I promise once my computer cooperates with the pictures - I'll post them. But here are a few of Emmett and Moby at the beach.
"I coulda been a show dog, see?"
Yes, that's snot running down his nose. Priority of motherhood 1.take picture 2. wipe nose! (got to work on switching those around!)
The finishline judge was unable to determine the winner of this race because the dog took him out. =)
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Trick or Treat
Emmett (or Tow Mater) went Trick or Treating for the very first time today. I know it's not Halloween, but leave it to our crazy town to do it the Sunday before. Emmett got the hang of the whole procedure pretty quickly when he realized he got candy out of the deal. However, I had to explain that the jackpot of trick or treating is the full sized candy bar of which he got one! Pictures of Emmett to come...Stay tuned.
Moby also had his first experience trick or treating - he behaved so well despite so many people surounding him. Although he would NOT wear his costume. He preferred to attack the costume, so we abandoned the idea. At least we got a picture! He does look pretty pathetic, doesn't he?
Moby also had his first experience trick or treating - he behaved so well despite so many people surounding him. Although he would NOT wear his costume. He preferred to attack the costume, so we abandoned the idea. At least we got a picture! He does look pretty pathetic, doesn't he?
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Hmm Apple Cider
| You Are Apple Cider |
 |
Gotta love fall. If I was a part of fall, I'd be apple cider - and they're right, I tend to complain when I get cold. I love apple cider! And hot chocolate (remember, I work for hot chocolate, at least for someone else's HC fascination). Oh, and don't forget the Starbucks. But what ever happened to the Cranberry Orange scones? I loved those! And now their gone.
Ok, this is scary, I can trace the seasons with my favorite Starbucks drinks...
Winter: Peppermint Mocha (of course with whipped cream!)(Craig rolls eyes - that's what he gets for reading over my shoulder. He's ultimately just jealous over my mad typing skills. Yep! I've got skilz.) (I digress - Craig's fault)
Spring: Caramel Macchiato (non-fat, I have to get rid of the winter blubber layer built up with the peppermint mochas)
Summer: (keep up with me here) Grande Iced Vanilla Raspberry Non-fat Latte
Fall: Toss up between the Hot Apple Cider and another Macchiato. I love my Macchiatos!
Anyway - now that we're clear on my Starbucks addiction, I'm going to attempt to see through my caffeine high.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Who's Birthday is it?
Emmett had a terrific birthday on Saturday. Complete with lots of friends AND lots of Disney Car's stuff (Including a really yummy Car's cake from Sam's Club!). One of my personal favorite gifts Emmett received was a "Let's Pretend Animal Doctor" set. After setting up the Car's tent and Car's chair, de-boxing a myriad of other new toys, and building three paper airplanes from the airplane kit, Emmett begged to have me open the Dr Set. We played together bandaging all the Mobys (i.e. all the stuffed dogs in his collection of stuffed animals are called 'Moby'. There's little Moby, other little Moby, and Big Moby - Big Moby being the real-live Moby). And when I started dinner, Emmett was still healing the bee-stung, and car hit stuffed animals of his room. He was very busy! (Ok, I know some readers will see hiliarious similarities to a certain girl and her cousin who used to play the SAME GAME some 25 odd years ago! This one's for you Patrick... INCOMING!)
Anyway - today, we came home from school and work, and Emmett went straight to playing with the Animal Dr set. (Way to go Miss Vicki for that gift!) And so did Moby. Big Moby that is. As Emmett played in his room, a great comotion occured in our bedroom. Big Moby realized that with all these gifts came all this cardboard.
Oh the joy! Moby had a blast running around with the Animal Dr box (which was now completely empty of any animal dr toys). He shredded it (he's a very eco-conscious dog), and sprinkled it throughout our bedroom. Now, exhausted from his cardboard binge, he's laying quietly in the room. Happy panting away. Emmett has now seen all his patients for the day - everyone is bandaged and healing. But they all have to return to the Dr on "Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Or Thursday, Friday and Saturday". Don't ask me where he got the three days of repeat follow up visits idea!
So I'm not sure who is really having more fun with Miss Vicki's gift. Moby or Emmett!
One more thing...This morning I asked Emmett if he wanted to take something to school to show his teacher. He had apparently been thinking this over because he says "Um, I've been thinking, I'll take my tent and chair, and my Dr Set, and my helicopter, and my paper airplanes, and a motorcycle, and my..." You get the idea. I finally had to interupt (this could have gone on for quite some time), "honey, how about just one thing today". "Ok, my tent." "How about something small enough for your backpack." "Ok - I guess I'll take my motorcycle".
I would have loved to have seen his teachers when Emmett brought in his tent! That probably would have prompted a note. "Please, don't bring any camping gear to preschool. Field trips are strictly during-school-hours events". Ha!
Anyway - today, we came home from school and work, and Emmett went straight to playing with the Animal Dr set. (Way to go Miss Vicki for that gift!) And so did Moby. Big Moby that is. As Emmett played in his room, a great comotion occured in our bedroom. Big Moby realized that with all these gifts came all this cardboard.
Oh the joy! Moby had a blast running around with the Animal Dr box (which was now completely empty of any animal dr toys). He shredded it (he's a very eco-conscious dog), and sprinkled it throughout our bedroom. Now, exhausted from his cardboard binge, he's laying quietly in the room. Happy panting away. Emmett has now seen all his patients for the day - everyone is bandaged and healing. But they all have to return to the Dr on "Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Or Thursday, Friday and Saturday". Don't ask me where he got the three days of repeat follow up visits idea!
So I'm not sure who is really having more fun with Miss Vicki's gift. Moby or Emmett!
One more thing...This morning I asked Emmett if he wanted to take something to school to show his teacher. He had apparently been thinking this over because he says "Um, I've been thinking, I'll take my tent and chair, and my Dr Set, and my helicopter, and my paper airplanes, and a motorcycle, and my..." You get the idea. I finally had to interupt (this could have gone on for quite some time), "honey, how about just one thing today". "Ok, my tent." "How about something small enough for your backpack."
I would have loved to have seen his teachers when Emmett brought in his tent! That probably would have prompted a note. "Please, don't bring any camping gear to preschool. Field trips are strictly during-school-hours events". Ha!
Thursday, October 04, 2007
The box
Ever had anyone tell you to think outside the box? I hate the expression about as much as "Can I pick your brain?" No, you can't pick my brain - just like you can't pick my nose! My brain is not for picking - it is not a strawberry patch. IT'S MY BRAIN! Sorry - digression!
So this week I was told to think outside the box. Actually I was told to take the box, set it on fire and shove it off the cliff. Now that's a metaphor I can get behind. Take the standard and completely mutilate it. Totally destroy the bonds holding you in. Ooohhh - such visuals. I need my graphic designer husband to create a nice logo of that. I'd probably get called by homeland security wondering why I'm threatening the existence of UPS.
I mean I get it - don't get held up by the constraints of what you've always known. Of course, how does one think outside of ones experience. Ugh - I'm too tired to explore that thought.
Unfortunately - everyone else had already picked my brain and gave away all my good ideas. So I'm back in the box - it's on fire and being hurtled toward the the cliff - with my picked over brain inside.
Can you tell it's been that kind of week?
"Inconceivable!"
So this week I was told to think outside the box. Actually I was told to take the box, set it on fire and shove it off the cliff. Now that's a metaphor I can get behind. Take the standard and completely mutilate it. Totally destroy the bonds holding you in. Ooohhh - such visuals. I need my graphic designer husband to create a nice logo of that. I'd probably get called by homeland security wondering why I'm threatening the existence of UPS.
I mean I get it - don't get held up by the constraints of what you've always known. Of course, how does one think outside of ones experience. Ugh - I'm too tired to explore that thought.
Unfortunately - everyone else had already picked my brain and gave away all my good ideas. So I'm back in the box - it's on fire and being hurtled toward the the cliff - with my picked over brain inside.
Can you tell it's been that kind of week?
"Inconceivable!"
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Goodbye to a good blog...
When we first started the adoption process, I secretly stalked a few web forums. Eventually, I started to freely publish comments and things on our agency's forum - and this is where I heard of Twice the Rice (TTR). TTR was a blog written by an adult Korean adoptee, Ji-in who had great insights about inter-racial adoption. I began to regularly read TTR - and it began to shape some of my thoughts about our own adoption.
Being an inter-racial family wasn't something I ever thought about. We had desired to adopt since getting married, and in my mind, we were always going to go overseas to adopt. The word "inter-racial" really didn't mean anything to me. My eyes were opened by reading TTR. To hear from someone who walked the same path as our little guy. Hear her express her frustrations and joys of being adopted really opened my eyes to what it means to be an inter-racial family.
I'm sorry to say that Ji-in has retired TTR. She had been maintaining her blog a lot longer than I have been writting this one, and I can imagine that it could get tedious to be the center of attention for so many pre-adoptive, adoptive families as well as adoptees. I'm bummed because I loved hearing her perspective.
Despite the retired status of TTR, I encourage any adoptive parents (or interested parties) to go check out the blog. Wander through the archives and see what you find. There are great topics to really get you thinking. Sometimes we adoptive parents get on our 'saved the world, one kid at a time' high-horse. We're told by friends and family of what a wonderful thing we've done. As if we plucked our children out of hell itself. I admit, sometimes it's nice to hear that, cause it makes me seem really compassionate. But in reality, we have taken the responsibility of raising a child which is not our own. We have promised to love them, care for them, and raise them to be responsible citzens of the world. But no amount of our love will replace the connection to their first mothers nor to their birth countries. Nor should we ever hope to replace those things.
I bid ado to my friend TTR. One blog to another, you really changed my perspective on things. Farewell friend -
//twicetherice.wordpress.com/
Being an inter-racial family wasn't something I ever thought about. We had desired to adopt since getting married, and in my mind, we were always going to go overseas to adopt. The word "inter-racial" really didn't mean anything to me. My eyes were opened by reading TTR. To hear from someone who walked the same path as our little guy. Hear her express her frustrations and joys of being adopted really opened my eyes to what it means to be an inter-racial family.
I'm sorry to say that Ji-in has retired TTR. She had been maintaining her blog a lot longer than I have been writting this one, and I can imagine that it could get tedious to be the center of attention for so many pre-adoptive, adoptive families as well as adoptees. I'm bummed because I loved hearing her perspective.
Despite the retired status of TTR, I encourage any adoptive parents (or interested parties) to go check out the blog. Wander through the archives and see what you find. There are great topics to really get you thinking. Sometimes we adoptive parents get on our 'saved the world, one kid at a time' high-horse. We're told by friends and family of what a wonderful thing we've done. As if we plucked our children out of hell itself. I admit, sometimes it's nice to hear that, cause it makes me seem really compassionate. But in reality, we have taken the responsibility of raising a child which is not our own. We have promised to love them, care for them, and raise them to be responsible citzens of the world. But no amount of our love will replace the connection to their first mothers nor to their birth countries. Nor should we ever hope to replace those things.
I bid ado to my friend TTR. One blog to another, you really changed my perspective on things. Farewell friend -
//twicetherice.wordpress.com/
Monday, September 24, 2007
Talk about thick headed!
Most of you know our over-grown labrador named Moby. He's a big lug of a dog (112lbs last time we got him on a scale)very much like Marley in "Marley and Me" - John Grogan. Our Moby has a strange knack for running head-long into things in his over-zealous playtime. As he's grown older he's slowed down some (example, he's asleep on the bed - most of the bed I must mention), but he's still got a little spunk left in him.
Case in point - yesterday. It is a Sunday tradition that two of the three of us (not including the beast) nap after church and lunch. Well yesterday we all wanted to take a quick nap. So we lay down in bed, and Moby joins right in, taking over much of the bed as usual. Moby doesn't like to nap when we want to nap - he thinks it's his chance to play! So he tries all his tricks to get us to play, and Craig of course, gave in. Moby in the middle of starting up a puppy frenzy (uncontrolled running) decides to jump up on the bed. No problem - he's done it a million times. Except something made him change direction at the last minute causing all 112 lbs of inertia propelling his head in to the banister of our bed. No yelp (from the dog that is, I gasped thinking he'd knocked his head off), he just glued his ears to the side of his head and came running to us for petting. Too bad it didn't knock some sense into him.
I'm telling you that dog's head is made of some strong metal or something. He was never too bright, so we're not particularly concerned about long term brain damage. And the banister is also none the worse for wear. We always knew the dog was thick headed!
Case in point - yesterday. It is a Sunday tradition that two of the three of us (not including the beast) nap after church and lunch. Well yesterday we all wanted to take a quick nap. So we lay down in bed, and Moby joins right in, taking over much of the bed as usual. Moby doesn't like to nap when we want to nap - he thinks it's his chance to play! So he tries all his tricks to get us to play, and Craig of course, gave in. Moby in the middle of starting up a puppy frenzy (uncontrolled running) decides to jump up on the bed. No problem - he's done it a million times. Except something made him change direction at the last minute causing all 112 lbs of inertia propelling his head in to the banister of our bed. No yelp (from the dog that is, I gasped thinking he'd knocked his head off), he just glued his ears to the side of his head and came running to us for petting. Too bad it didn't knock some sense into him.
I'm telling you that dog's head is made of some strong metal or something. He was never too bright, so we're not particularly concerned about long term brain damage. And the banister is also none the worse for wear. We always knew the dog was thick headed!
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Ode to NPR
Oh my dear NPR, my ear soothing friend
Oh how I adore your Morning Edition and All Things Considered
How the careful drone of your report put my child to sleep
Bring me one ear closer to our foreign policy
Tell me what the Senate hearings brought today
And please don't forget my Marketplace fix - and a little The World to boot
Let me ponder the GeoQuiz and torment in my shameful geographic dislexia
Bring Carl Casle to my answering machine
Oh my NPR - Oh my sweet escape - was that my exit I just passed?
Oh how I adore your Morning Edition and All Things Considered
How the careful drone of your report put my child to sleep
Bring me one ear closer to our foreign policy
Tell me what the Senate hearings brought today
And please don't forget my Marketplace fix - and a little The World to boot
Let me ponder the GeoQuiz and torment in my shameful geographic dislexia
Bring Carl Casle to my answering machine
Oh my NPR - Oh my sweet escape - was that my exit I just passed?
Ciao!
Welcome to the new look and feel of Ramblin' Girl! I know you feel lucky to have 3 (yes, three!) posts in one day. I was inspired. So enjoy. Check out the Invasion of the Blogs - good stuff there!
Welcome to the 21st Century...
Let me bring you up to speed.
Women hold one half of all management, professional, and related occupations (according to the 2004 US Dept of Labor Datebook)
Women out number men 4 to 1 in the US (according to GeoHive.com)
Despite my lack of the Y chromosome, I am, in fact, capable of performing my job and managing men.
Why the brief review of the gender world as we know it? I had, honestly, the most bizarre experience of my work life today. Apparently one of the new employees assigned to my client required that he; 1. Not be managed, mentored, or coached by a woman. 2. Not be 'forced' to sit next to a woman. 3. Not be required to meet with a woman in a closed office.
Um.. Huh? Sorry, did you forget exactly what year this is? Or did you just forget to read a bit about our "globally diverse workforce"? After it was explained that these demands would not be met, our new employee proceeded to complain how the company mislead and misrepresented our work environment.
Let me recap...
Won't work with woman (this was the most outrageous of several demands), is complaining that we mislead him. Hmmm Interesting... Exactly what reality are you living in? Lucky for me (and probably way better for him), he quit.
I haven't experienced something as strange and odd as gender discrimination before. At least not this blatantly. I am in no way the best person at my job - but I'm darn capable, and I've worked my ever expanding tush off to get where I am. At 5 years old, I was proclaiming woman's ability and right to drive trackers (and made sure my cousin and uncle knew it - and have never forgotten it!). Maybe it comes from being the only girl (and youngest) in my extended family. Maybe it's genetic from my Mom, who always showed me that women are strong, resourceful, intelligent, and capable people. (Thanks Mom!) Or maybe it's my Dad, who always followed my achievements with a hardy "I'm proud of you" hug, and never lowered expectations because I was the girl. (Thanks DDD) Wherever I got this feminist streak, it is well ingrained within my person. Which would have made working with Mr 1950 difficult, and managing him near impossible.
Who knows why this particular person desired to be in a female free work environment. But as we look at our changing workforce, our changing economic climate, us women are going to be a pretty big force to be reckoned with. So look out world - us woman are here to stay, oh and we'll probably be your next manager too.
Women hold one half of all management, professional, and related occupations (according to the 2004 US Dept of Labor Datebook)
Women out number men 4 to 1 in the US (according to GeoHive.com)
Despite my lack of the Y chromosome, I am, in fact, capable of performing my job and managing men.
Why the brief review of the gender world as we know it? I had, honestly, the most bizarre experience of my work life today. Apparently one of the new employees assigned to my client required that he; 1. Not be managed, mentored, or coached by a woman. 2. Not be 'forced' to sit next to a woman. 3. Not be required to meet with a woman in a closed office.
Um.. Huh? Sorry, did you forget exactly what year this is? Or did you just forget to read a bit about our "globally diverse workforce"? After it was explained that these demands would not be met, our new employee proceeded to complain how the company mislead and misrepresented our work environment.
Let me recap...
Won't work with woman (this was the most outrageous of several demands), is complaining that we mislead him. Hmmm Interesting... Exactly what reality are you living in? Lucky for me (and probably way better for him), he quit.
I haven't experienced something as strange and odd as gender discrimination before. At least not this blatantly. I am in no way the best person at my job - but I'm darn capable, and I've worked my ever expanding tush off to get where I am. At 5 years old, I was proclaiming woman's ability and right to drive trackers (and made sure my cousin and uncle knew it - and have never forgotten it!). Maybe it comes from being the only girl (and youngest) in my extended family. Maybe it's genetic from my Mom, who always showed me that women are strong, resourceful, intelligent, and capable people. (Thanks Mom!) Or maybe it's my Dad, who always followed my achievements with a hardy "I'm proud of you" hug, and never lowered expectations because I was the girl. (Thanks DDD) Wherever I got this feminist streak, it is well ingrained within my person. Which would have made working with Mr 1950 difficult, and managing him near impossible.
Who knows why this particular person desired to be in a female free work environment. But as we look at our changing workforce, our changing economic climate, us women are going to be a pretty big force to be reckoned with. So look out world - us woman are here to stay, oh and we'll probably be your next manager too.
I need to blog at 11pm every night. Why 11pm? Because every night right before I go to sleep, I think of all these great and witty things to write in the blog. And I think to myself - tomorrow, blog that! Only to wake up in the morning, frustrated at having to wake up early and work and all that, and prompty forget everything I had to say.
Sorry to all of you who regularly check my blog, yet another blogless day. At least I can make up everything you need to know about climbing Mt Everest. More on that - later....
Sorry to all of you who regularly check my blog, yet another blogless day. At least I can make up everything you need to know about climbing Mt Everest. More on that - later....
Monday, September 03, 2007
Stitches, Nasal foreign bodies, and Happy Labor Day to you!
My day began with the announcement (through many tears), "I got a lego stuck in my nose!" This was Emmett's way of getting Labor Day started. Why he thought it would be a good idea to stick a lego up his nose - I'll never know. Especially because he won't tell me. "Why did you stick a lego up your nose?" "I don't know". As Bill Cosby said in "Bill Cosby, Himself" - my son has a strange disease, the I don't know disease. It strikes without warning. And Emmett has it!
Craig was out mountain biking with a coworker, so I called to leave a message that we'd be heading to the ER. But instead of voicemail, my own injured husband answered. Bikes were made with brakes, so were trails. Trail brakes are trees, and generally should not be encountered with one's face. Craig was unfortunate enough to use the trail brakes today - with his lips. (Having just watched "The Ultimate Silly Songs" from Veggie Tales, I had a difficult time not huming "I love my lips" during this ordeal, but I refrained for Craig's sake. No pun intended)
I had imagined that one day I might have to take my son to the ER for sticking something where it shouldn't go, but I had never imagined having to walk into the ER and say this. "Hi, this one hit a tree with his face, and to top his Dad, this one stuck a lego up his nose. So where do I sign in?"
It took three tries to get the lego out. And three stitches to get the lip mended. Thank goodness Mom came to help triage between the two broken boys. Three hours later we were back home, recovering from our latest ER trip.
I laughed through most of the morning - I mean, it really was pretty funny. I'm headed to the ER, so why not come along... Family Outing! Many Happy Labor Day wishes to everyone else - hopefully you didn't have to celebrate with the ER staff!
Craig was out mountain biking with a coworker, so I called to leave a message that we'd be heading to the ER. But instead of voicemail, my own injured husband answered. Bikes were made with brakes, so were trails. Trail brakes are trees, and generally should not be encountered with one's face. Craig was unfortunate enough to use the trail brakes today - with his lips. (Having just watched "The Ultimate Silly Songs" from Veggie Tales, I had a difficult time not huming "I love my lips" during this ordeal, but I refrained for Craig's sake. No pun intended)
I had imagined that one day I might have to take my son to the ER for sticking something where it shouldn't go, but I had never imagined having to walk into the ER and say this. "Hi, this one hit a tree with his face, and to top his Dad, this one stuck a lego up his nose. So where do I sign in?"
It took three tries to get the lego out. And three stitches to get the lip mended. Thank goodness Mom came to help triage between the two broken boys. Three hours later we were back home, recovering from our latest ER trip.
I laughed through most of the morning - I mean, it really was pretty funny. I'm headed to the ER, so why not come along... Family Outing! Many Happy Labor Day wishes to everyone else - hopefully you didn't have to celebrate with the ER staff!
Monday, August 27, 2007
The day the call came.
A year ago, well, 368 days ago, I was working from home, preparing for Craig and my last pre-parenthood hurrah vacation, when my phone rang, and I spilled coffee all over my floor. The stain is still there - slightly less obvious, but otherwise unchanged. I think that's about the only thing that has remained unchanged.
Craig and my 'last hurrah' switched from a weekend in the U.P. to a real live movie in a theater. Slightly less exciting than a weekend mountain biking, but it was the last time we could actually turn off our cell phones for a movie.
One year later, we still get out to the movies about once every other month. Which, I'm told, is fairly good considering we're parents. Our cell phones now on vibrate, mine gripped tightly in my hand.
My car is now permanently covered in Cheerios, cars, sippy cups and general flotsam/jetsam that comes with toddlers. Why, explain to me why, the preschool insists on at least 2 handouts a day? Whole forests have fallen from that one preschool! (sorry, I digress) My car CD holder is about 50% my music and 50% Justin Roberts CDs (including Yellow Bus - wahoo!). I tend to forget my definite articles and the beginning syllable of 3 syllable words. Who needs construction? I routinely pick up small cars, and have not a few bruises on the soles of my feet from legos. And worst of all, I've become sappy - not really, really, sappy - but I cry at movies where kids go missing or kids get hurt, and when I listen to the "Happy Adoption Day" song, I actually tear up. What's up with that?
Emmett has changed too. Our conversations used to end with me saying "I don't understand, sweetie", and now end with my pleas of "Inside voice, inside voice". Phrases that used to be too hard for him to say like "Come on" (used to be "Cheemon") ring in clear English. Clothes he came home with are now serious flood pants. And he has opinions on his next winter coat. (yes sirree, opinions!)He can quote the alphabet without trouble, and count to 20 (15 is optional) with ease. What used to be a major fear of the four-legged,long-tongued, over-zealous, beast is now a true affection for the yellow lab who enjoys kid hugs.
Even the dog has changed - the word 'walk' used to send him running to the back door, now it prompts a quizzical look as if he's asking "do you mean it?" And even more disturbing - our nightly "Stop pushing Emmett's chair away from the table so you can eat his food" scolding has become routine.
So the house is a persistent mess, dinner is often Mac & Cheese, and I can sing you entire CDs of kids music, but I honestly wouldn't change it for the world. As I plan Emmett's 4th birthday party, I can't help but remember the day the call came.
"Get packed - you need to be in Korea in 7 days. Your son is waiting for you."
Oh and here I go gettin' all teary! See I'm becoming a sappy!
Craig and my 'last hurrah' switched from a weekend in the U.P. to a real live movie in a theater. Slightly less exciting than a weekend mountain biking, but it was the last time we could actually turn off our cell phones for a movie.
One year later, we still get out to the movies about once every other month. Which, I'm told, is fairly good considering we're parents. Our cell phones now on vibrate, mine gripped tightly in my hand.
My car is now permanently covered in Cheerios, cars, sippy cups and general flotsam/jetsam that comes with toddlers. Why, explain to me why, the preschool insists on at least 2 handouts a day? Whole forests have fallen from that one preschool! (sorry, I digress) My car CD holder is about 50% my music and 50% Justin Roberts CDs (including Yellow Bus - wahoo!). I tend to forget my definite articles and the beginning syllable of 3 syllable words. Who needs construction? I routinely pick up small cars, and have not a few bruises on the soles of my feet from legos. And worst of all, I've become sappy - not really, really, sappy - but I cry at movies where kids go missing or kids get hurt, and when I listen to the "Happy Adoption Day" song, I actually tear up. What's up with that?
Emmett has changed too. Our conversations used to end with me saying "I don't understand, sweetie", and now end with my pleas of "Inside voice, inside voice". Phrases that used to be too hard for him to say like "Come on" (used to be "Cheemon") ring in clear English. Clothes he came home with are now serious flood pants. And he has opinions on his next winter coat. (yes sirree, opinions!)He can quote the alphabet without trouble, and count to 20 (15 is optional) with ease. What used to be a major fear of the four-legged,long-tongued, over-zealous, beast is now a true affection for the yellow lab who enjoys kid hugs.
Even the dog has changed - the word 'walk' used to send him running to the back door, now it prompts a quizzical look as if he's asking "do you mean it?" And even more disturbing - our nightly "Stop pushing Emmett's chair away from the table so you can eat his food" scolding has become routine.
So the house is a persistent mess, dinner is often Mac & Cheese, and I can sing you entire CDs of kids music, but I honestly wouldn't change it for the world. As I plan Emmett's 4th birthday party, I can't help but remember the day the call came.
"Get packed - you need to be in Korea in 7 days. Your son is waiting for you."
Oh and here I go gettin' all teary! See I'm becoming a sappy!
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Who Knew?
Look out world, apparently I have some unresolved issues!
| You Are Elektra |
 "You don't know how I feel. I want revenge." |
Friday, July 06, 2007
Who is God?
I had only vaguely thought of the moment when an innocent question like "Who is God" would come from Emmett's lips. I knew eventually it would happen. I suppose, I was expecting him to be a bit older.
As part of our bedtime routine, we read a story from the Children's Bible. This evening's reading was of Moses parting the Red Sea. We had already learned about the 'Bad King' (Pharoah), and his bad treatment of God's people. This particular children's Bible even talks about the Passover event - another tough concept to explain. "Omma, what is blood?" uh.. uh.., well... um... (never did get a good one for that!). As anyone who has spent any time reading aloud from a children's Bible knows, they are sometimes still trying to convey messages that are hard for kids to understand. So we often use the written story as a guideline, and talk through the picture to explain what is happening. And this is how the inevitable question occured.
Jen - "See Moses raising his arms like that?"
Emmett - "uh-huh"
Jen - "Do you remember what happens to the water when he does that?"
Emmett - non-verbal head shake
Jen - "The water opens up, and the people can walk on the bottom of the lake"
Emmett - "Why?"
Jen - "So that they can escape the bad king"
Emmett - "Why He raise both hands like that?"
Jen - "Cause God told him to"
Emmett - "Who is God"
Just like that - Who is God? I think we all ask the question, at some point. It's just that as adults, we stopped asking it out loud for the most part. I stumbled through a lousy explanation of God as our Father and Creator. Emmett wasn't too convinced when I said that God made both him and Moby. "But Moby is a dog!" was Emmett's reply. Well, yeah, but God makes... ugh
Anyway... What struck me more than the fact that my 3 year old had just nailed me to the door of one of the toughest questions in humanity, was that I really had no good way to describe who God was/is. Biblically, He is the Great I AM, the Alpha and Omega, etc - this is not easy to explain. God is the Father and Creator, the lover of humanity, the ultimate judge, the all powerful. Again, not easy concepts to get into kid talk. I could see Emmett at school. "God made Moby, he's the alphabet and o-meghan."
I'll tell you one thing though - Emmett's innocent question has made me think. Made me remember a little of who God is, forced me to stop, pause, and remember the vastness which is our God. The awesomeness that is Him. And that He, the all powerful, creator of good and evil, actually knows my name. He wants me at his table, by His Son's invitation. I'm in awe.
Who is God - He is indescribable.
Thursday, June 28, 2007
I hate returning from vacation. It's not just the mounds of laundry and unpacking to be done. It's the return to reality. Bills must be paid, work to be done, tubs to scrub. I loved the freedom from reality while on vacation. The freedom to forget the stress of my day to day life. Ah, but at least I had a vacation. A joyous 6 days with family, hiking, biking, beaching, all done in the spirit of vacation.
We had an great time. Emmett met all his cousins on this side of the family. He told us yesterday that he already misses his them. They all played so well together, there was barely a moments boredom in the bunch. Our rental house fit us just perfectly, everyone had a room, and although the littlest amoungst us didn't much want to sleep, we all knew what we were getting into. At least we thought we knew.
Many memories will remain from this vacation. The sinking of the U.S.S Umbrella off of Pope Beach and the 3 mile hike no one expected. But greatest among the memories will be of the voluntary evacuation of the rental house in advance of a major forest fire.
Being from the Midwest, forest fires are not something I really ponder much. Luckily the Californian bunch of the family recognized the signs and prepared us for what was ahead. The massive plume of smoke rising over the ridge was surely something to behold, almost a thing of beauty. Until you realize that the plume is really just a forewarning of what is to come. Flames eating every combustible thing in their path, and if that means the house, it's the house. As we packed our things back into our suitcases, grabbed what foodstuff we could, and jammed it all into our rental cars, I thought of how easy it was to just shove everything we'd brought into suitcases, and drive away. It was easy for us to evacuate when the voluntary order came. We were not emotionally invested in the structure we slept in for 4 nights. We'd enjoyed it's shelter, it's amenities, but it wasn't ours. What if I had to flee my own house? what would I take knowing that nothing might survive the hunger of the fire? As I watched neighbors pack their cars, I paused to think about what they were feeling. The thought of losing everything was what made their hands work faster.
As the next two days played out - we found new lodging and made the best of our re-located vacation. But buying trinkets of this or that in the South Lake Tahoe stores felt selfish. These folks were watching part of their town burn! And I'm buying a T-shirt? As I sit comfortably in my air conditioned midwest home, with no smoke billowing over head, I can only hope and pray for the residents and fire fighters in South Lake Tahoe, as they fight the Angora Fire - still mostly uncontained as I write this. We're not sure if the rental house escaped the flames - there are so many conflicting stories to read. We hope and pray that it did, because it served us well, and it the owners are great people.
Prayers for South Lake Tahoe, today.
We had an great time. Emmett met all his cousins on this side of the family. He told us yesterday that he already misses his them. They all played so well together, there was barely a moments boredom in the bunch. Our rental house fit us just perfectly, everyone had a room, and although the littlest amoungst us didn't much want to sleep, we all knew what we were getting into. At least we thought we knew.
Many memories will remain from this vacation. The sinking of the U.S.S Umbrella off of Pope Beach and the 3 mile hike no one expected. But greatest among the memories will be of the voluntary evacuation of the rental house in advance of a major forest fire.
Being from the Midwest, forest fires are not something I really ponder much. Luckily the Californian bunch of the family recognized the signs and prepared us for what was ahead. The massive plume of smoke rising over the ridge was surely something to behold, almost a thing of beauty. Until you realize that the plume is really just a forewarning of what is to come. Flames eating every combustible thing in their path, and if that means the house, it's the house. As we packed our things back into our suitcases, grabbed what foodstuff we could, and jammed it all into our rental cars, I thought of how easy it was to just shove everything we'd brought into suitcases, and drive away. It was easy for us to evacuate when the voluntary order came. We were not emotionally invested in the structure we slept in for 4 nights. We'd enjoyed it's shelter, it's amenities, but it wasn't ours. What if I had to flee my own house? what would I take knowing that nothing might survive the hunger of the fire? As I watched neighbors pack their cars, I paused to think about what they were feeling. The thought of losing everything was what made their hands work faster.
As the next two days played out - we found new lodging and made the best of our re-located vacation. But buying trinkets of this or that in the South Lake Tahoe stores felt selfish. These folks were watching part of their town burn! And I'm buying a T-shirt? As I sit comfortably in my air conditioned midwest home, with no smoke billowing over head, I can only hope and pray for the residents and fire fighters in South Lake Tahoe, as they fight the Angora Fire - still mostly uncontained as I write this. We're not sure if the rental house escaped the flames - there are so many conflicting stories to read. We hope and pray that it did, because it served us well, and it the owners are great people.
Prayers for South Lake Tahoe, today.
Friday, June 15, 2007
On the doorstep of done...
Today we become a family. We stand before a judge and promise to love and care for Emmett for the rest of our lives. Emmett has become every bit my son. There's no doubt in my mind that he was meant for us. The love I have for him has grown to unknown proportions. I can't imagine our family without him now.
I know this is a short post - so I'll give details (and post pictures!) later.
I know this is a short post - so I'll give details (and post pictures!) later.
Thursday, June 07, 2007
Leave it to the US Congress
What are these people thinking?
I recently received an email from our agency informing us of recent legislation put forth in Congress which would repeal Bill S. 246 The Adoption Tax Relief Guarantee Act of 2005. For those of you less familiar with the adoption process, this is the bill which provides adoptive families a $10,000 tax credit for adoption expenses.
Some of you know, I work with money - pensions to be exact. So despite my high school math grades, I know how to do math. To adopt an internationally born child will normally run you more than $20,000. Now unless you're pretty financially savvy, you probably don't have an extra 20k lying around your bank account. Many of us financially challenged folks finance adoption through loans, second mortgages, credit cards, 401k cash outs, etc, etc. All of us depend on the credit being there to pay off much of the adoption debt we accumulate throughout the process.
Now, before you start thinking that us adoptive parents are looking for a hand out, let me explain why it's important for our federal government to encourage the adoption of orphaned children.
First, the bottom line...
The federal government pays anywhere from $4,155 to $33,091 per child annually to states to help finance foster care programs, that is approximately $5 billion every year spent on reimbursing states for a portion of their foster care programs*. "Foster care services are intended to provide temporary, safe alternative homes for children who have been abused or neglected until such time as they are able to return to their parents' care safely or can be placed in other permanent homes."* Domestic adoption costs can add up quick. The cost to adopt from the foster care system normally runs around $2,500. To adopt a child from an expectant birth mother can be upwards of $40,000 depending on the circumstances.
Second, our moral and ethical reasons...
Research agrees that children raised within a family setting are more productive, better adjusted and self assured than children raised in oprhanages or in foster care. (No shame to foster parents, our foster care system is broken, let's face it). These kids have a higher chance of becoming contributing members of society. And as all of us tax paying folks know, the government likes us contributing members. Ultimately, shouldn't we take care of each other? Shouldn't we give kids a chance at a better life?
So, no, Senator Kohl, I don't think I should be able to claim my dog as a dependant on my taxes. But I do think you should vote for S.246. And allow many other families, including mine to adopt children.
*ASPE Issue brief August 2005
I recently received an email from our agency informing us of recent legislation put forth in Congress which would repeal Bill S. 246 The Adoption Tax Relief Guarantee Act of 2005. For those of you less familiar with the adoption process, this is the bill which provides adoptive families a $10,000 tax credit for adoption expenses.
Some of you know, I work with money - pensions to be exact. So despite my high school math grades, I know how to do math. To adopt an internationally born child will normally run you more than $20,000. Now unless you're pretty financially savvy, you probably don't have an extra 20k lying around your bank account. Many of us financially challenged folks finance adoption through loans, second mortgages, credit cards, 401k cash outs, etc, etc. All of us depend on the credit being there to pay off much of the adoption debt we accumulate throughout the process.
Now, before you start thinking that us adoptive parents are looking for a hand out, let me explain why it's important for our federal government to encourage the adoption of orphaned children.
First, the bottom line...
The federal government pays anywhere from $4,155 to $33,091 per child annually to states to help finance foster care programs, that is approximately $5 billion every year spent on reimbursing states for a portion of their foster care programs*. "Foster care services are intended to provide temporary, safe alternative homes for children who have been abused or neglected until such time as they are able to return to their parents' care safely or can be placed in other permanent homes."* Domestic adoption costs can add up quick. The cost to adopt from the foster care system normally runs around $2,500. To adopt a child from an expectant birth mother can be upwards of $40,000 depending on the circumstances.
Second, our moral and ethical reasons...
Research agrees that children raised within a family setting are more productive, better adjusted and self assured than children raised in oprhanages or in foster care. (No shame to foster parents, our foster care system is broken, let's face it). These kids have a higher chance of becoming contributing members of society. And as all of us tax paying folks know, the government likes us contributing members. Ultimately, shouldn't we take care of each other? Shouldn't we give kids a chance at a better life?
So, no, Senator Kohl, I don't think I should be able to claim my dog as a dependant on my taxes. But I do think you should vote for S.246. And allow many other families, including mine to adopt children.
*ASPE Issue brief August 2005
A Life of Compassion
I met him when I was 5 years old. He was a giant in my eyes, and his smile was just as big. I recited scripture to him for awana. Hoped he'd be proud of my participation in the three legged race, and always needed one last hug before I went home. He always had that big grin, easy style, and unpretentious demeanor. He was John Witucke.
His hugs were enveloping - he'd squeeze the stuffing out of you, and it was obvious he cared for you. Everyone felt like someone special with Mr Witucke. Whether you knew him from church, awana, or he was your grade school phys.ed teacher, you knew he cared for you.
As I grew older, and out-grew awana, I saw less of Mr Witucke. Although he always walked by the house on his way to church on Sundays. I'd see him - still larger than life, Bible in hand walking to the morning service. I remember in those interim years, thinking he had a certain something different about him. He seemed to have the kind of faith that was palpable. As if you could really see Jesus standing next to him, talking to him like a friend. When I returned to church at 14, he was there. Big hug at the ready, recognizing me right away. Nothing could have made me feel more welcome than his smile and hug. I heard him talk about his faith, the church he loved, and his kids. I respected his opinion and took stock in what he had to say. I know I didn't know him all that well - but he is one of the people who stands out to me in my faith journey. A pillar of what it means to live a life of compassion. Even when you messed up, Mr Witucke was quick with a hug and a word of grace and forgiveness. He grieved freely and loved without restraint.
Mr Witucke went home to the Lord Sunday after a battle with cancer. His visitation yesterday was a testament to who he was. A legacy of awana kids all grown up, school kids with kids of their own, church families with memories long and deep of John. I've always found it a strange dicotomy when a believer dies. My heart aches for just one more Mr Witucke hug. One more glimpse of that smile. At the same time I have amazing assurance that Mr Witucke is with his Lord and Savior. Mr Witucke is walking with Jesus, finally.
His hugs were enveloping - he'd squeeze the stuffing out of you, and it was obvious he cared for you. Everyone felt like someone special with Mr Witucke. Whether you knew him from church, awana, or he was your grade school phys.ed teacher, you knew he cared for you.
As I grew older, and out-grew awana, I saw less of Mr Witucke. Although he always walked by the house on his way to church on Sundays. I'd see him - still larger than life, Bible in hand walking to the morning service. I remember in those interim years, thinking he had a certain something different about him. He seemed to have the kind of faith that was palpable. As if you could really see Jesus standing next to him, talking to him like a friend. When I returned to church at 14, he was there. Big hug at the ready, recognizing me right away. Nothing could have made me feel more welcome than his smile and hug. I heard him talk about his faith, the church he loved, and his kids. I respected his opinion and took stock in what he had to say. I know I didn't know him all that well - but he is one of the people who stands out to me in my faith journey. A pillar of what it means to live a life of compassion. Even when you messed up, Mr Witucke was quick with a hug and a word of grace and forgiveness. He grieved freely and loved without restraint.
Mr Witucke went home to the Lord Sunday after a battle with cancer. His visitation yesterday was a testament to who he was. A legacy of awana kids all grown up, school kids with kids of their own, church families with memories long and deep of John. I've always found it a strange dicotomy when a believer dies. My heart aches for just one more Mr Witucke hug. One more glimpse of that smile. At the same time I have amazing assurance that Mr Witucke is with his Lord and Savior. Mr Witucke is walking with Jesus, finally.
Saturday, May 19, 2007
We'll miss you, soccer dog
Moby has had two constant doggie friends. They visit the 'Moby doggie retreat and spa' at least once a year. Moby gives them a good work out of wrestling, tug-of-war, drool and general frolick-type doggie fun. And it I get to cuddle yet another furry thing!
Moby and Galahad were puppies together. They were two bundles of blond fuzz. Moby always out-weighed Galahad, and for a long time, Moby looked like he could squash Galahad with a paw. But Galahad grew big enough to contend with our lug! Moby liked to play rough, Galahad liked to lick and be pet. We'd joke that Galahad was the 'pretty-boy', and Moby was the jock. Moby would be the rugby player "what blood? Shake it off dude and throw the ball!". While Galahad was the soccer player. Nimble and graceful in his jog, eager but controlled. "Anyone for some soccer?"
I don't normally write two entries in one night, but I felt compelled to write this one tonight. Galahad passed away recently, and my heart is kind of heavy for my pretty-boy-soccer dog friend. The non-dog-lovers of the world will roll their eyes, and tell me that I'm silly to feel sad about a dog's death. But they'll never feel the sense of security that having a dog laying on your feet will bring. They'll never experience joy when you come home to a dog's wagging tail. Few things bring a spontaneous smile to a dog lover's face like that greeting.
I feel for Galahad's family, and the loss they're feeling. It's tough to loose your dog, and so suddenly as well. We're praying, T, BA, M, & E. We'll miss him too.
Moby and Galahad were puppies together. They were two bundles of blond fuzz. Moby always out-weighed Galahad, and for a long time, Moby looked like he could squash Galahad with a paw. But Galahad grew big enough to contend with our lug! Moby liked to play rough, Galahad liked to lick and be pet. We'd joke that Galahad was the 'pretty-boy', and Moby was the jock. Moby would be the rugby player "what blood? Shake it off dude and throw the ball!". While Galahad was the soccer player. Nimble and graceful in his jog, eager but controlled. "Anyone for some soccer?"
I don't normally write two entries in one night, but I felt compelled to write this one tonight. Galahad passed away recently, and my heart is kind of heavy for my pretty-boy-soccer dog friend. The non-dog-lovers of the world will roll their eyes, and tell me that I'm silly to feel sad about a dog's death. But they'll never feel the sense of security that having a dog laying on your feet will bring. They'll never experience joy when you come home to a dog's wagging tail. Few things bring a spontaneous smile to a dog lover's face like that greeting.
I feel for Galahad's family, and the loss they're feeling. It's tough to loose your dog, and so suddenly as well. We're praying, T, BA, M, & E. We'll miss him too.
33 days and counting...
I love vacations. I love planning for them, packing for them, the excitement of the day before you leave. I love it all (I know a bit strange), and when you first jump in your car, leaving your 'normal' life behind for a few days, I get that adventurous feeling that nothing could stop me now.
33 days until we jet-set. Emmett's first American vacation (can't say his first American adventure, since I'm pretty sure that's past - or maybe in process - who knows!). At any rate, I'm looking at the suitcases, and wondering how early is too early to start thinking of packing?
This vacation is a little different, since my entire family will be joining us! It's the reunion we've been hinting around about for about 5 years (well at least since P & B got married, and not they have a baby!?) Speaking of babies... this family reunion consists of 21 people - 8 of which are too young to drive. 6 of the 8 can't ride most of the big rides at your local amuzement park! And at least 3 haven't mastered walking yet. Well maybe Baby G.E. has got that down now! This should be interesting. I can't wait!
There is something that gives this vacation a little more excitement, and it's because it is with family. I realize I am blessed to have a family that gets along well enough to commit to spending 6 days together! I hear so many people complain about family feuds and quarrels, and I'm sure that there have been some in the past of my family, but nothing can stop us now...
Look out undisclosed town... You're in for an invasion!
33 days until we jet-set. Emmett's first American vacation (can't say his first American adventure, since I'm pretty sure that's past - or maybe in process - who knows!). At any rate, I'm looking at the suitcases, and wondering how early is too early to start thinking of packing?
This vacation is a little different, since my entire family will be joining us! It's the reunion we've been hinting around about for about 5 years (well at least since P & B got married, and not they have a baby!?) Speaking of babies... this family reunion consists of 21 people - 8 of which are too young to drive. 6 of the 8 can't ride most of the big rides at your local amuzement park! And at least 3 haven't mastered walking yet. Well maybe Baby G.E. has got that down now! This should be interesting. I can't wait!
There is something that gives this vacation a little more excitement, and it's because it is with family. I realize I am blessed to have a family that gets along well enough to commit to spending 6 days together! I hear so many people complain about family feuds and quarrels, and I'm sure that there have been some in the past of my family, but nothing can stop us now...
Look out undisclosed town... You're in for an invasion!
Monday, May 07, 2007
Matching metal
I admit that my youthful years of dental work have left their mark on me. And I mean literally. I have about as much metal in my molars as I have enamel. I know, sad but true. I always told myself that I'd encourage my kids someday to really take care of their teeth. Well - sometimes it's not exactly in our control.
Emmett's first dental appointment was a nightmare. However, his next few went so well, I thought they'd switched kids on me. Today proved that I still have the same kid. He got a lot of metal in his little baby teeth. Let's all remember our last Novocaine shot. Those things HURT! It's odd to see metal in his little molars. I mean their the size of large pencil erasers! And won't they fall out anyway!?!
When I picked him up after preschool we compared metal. He pointed out that I have more than he does. So I told him that if he takes really good care of his teeth, he won't have to go through more mornings like today's. He promptly said "but your's are shiny". I don't think my point sunk in. Ok, let's go eat a jolly rancher or something!
(kidding folks!)
Emmett's first dental appointment was a nightmare. However, his next few went so well, I thought they'd switched kids on me. Today proved that I still have the same kid. He got a lot of metal in his little baby teeth. Let's all remember our last Novocaine shot. Those things HURT! It's odd to see metal in his little molars. I mean their the size of large pencil erasers! And won't they fall out anyway!?!
When I picked him up after preschool we compared metal. He pointed out that I have more than he does. So I told him that if he takes really good care of his teeth, he won't have to go through more mornings like today's. He promptly said "but your's are shiny". I don't think my point sunk in.
(kidding folks!)
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
Two mothers of one son
Dear Emmett's First Mom,
I can't help but think of you today. 1 year since you placed Emmett in foster care, 1 year since you relinquished him to be adopted, I pray that you find peace in your decision. I'm sure today doesn't go unnoticed by you. We are two mothers of one son. Although I have the privilege of tucking him in bed every night, you had the privilege of bearing him. I hear his giggles, you saw his first smile. I will never replace you in his heart of hearts. And that is how it should be. I hope that some day, you may see him again. I pray that in some divine web miracle, you stumble upon this blog letter (miraculously translated as well). I pray that you'll be able to read about his life with us. He's an amazing little man, and I give credit of that to you. My hope is that on this day I will be able to give you a glimpse into what his life is like now. Maybe some day you really will be able to read these annual entries and know that we love your little boy with all our hearts, and he is well cared for.
Emmett attends a daycare/preschool program 5 days a week. He is about a head taller than the other 3 year olds in his class. He's energetic, always running to and from everything. He could run and run for days if he had his choice. He is enrolled in a martial arts program through school where his teacher says he's one of the best students, he listens and is very disciplined. He can count to 20 (15 seems to be optional) and he recognizes the letters of his name. He has an eye for shapes and colors, which lends itself to his ability with puzzles. He loves cars and trucks, buses and airplanes. Of which he has many! He also likes music, singing and dancing which he does whenever possible. He even makes up his own little songs to sing!
His grandparents spoil him helplessly. All his favorite things appear at their houses when he's there. Did you know his grandparents came to Korea with us to bring Emmett here? All his grandparents were very excited and incredibly supportive. They are very proud of him, and his sweet little personality.
All in all, Emmett is growing up to be great little kid. I look forward to seeing his personality grow and change as he does. I wish that you could see these changes as well. But in your absence, I hope that I can provide him as much love and affection that you would if you were here.
God Bless -
I can't help but think of you today. 1 year since you placed Emmett in foster care, 1 year since you relinquished him to be adopted, I pray that you find peace in your decision. I'm sure today doesn't go unnoticed by you. We are two mothers of one son. Although I have the privilege of tucking him in bed every night, you had the privilege of bearing him. I hear his giggles, you saw his first smile. I will never replace you in his heart of hearts. And that is how it should be. I hope that some day, you may see him again. I pray that in some divine web miracle, you stumble upon this blog letter (miraculously translated as well). I pray that you'll be able to read about his life with us. He's an amazing little man, and I give credit of that to you. My hope is that on this day I will be able to give you a glimpse into what his life is like now. Maybe some day you really will be able to read these annual entries and know that we love your little boy with all our hearts, and he is well cared for.
Emmett attends a daycare/preschool program 5 days a week. He is about a head taller than the other 3 year olds in his class. He's energetic, always running to and from everything. He could run and run for days if he had his choice. He is enrolled in a martial arts program through school where his teacher says he's one of the best students, he listens and is very disciplined. He can count to 20 (15 seems to be optional) and he recognizes the letters of his name. He has an eye for shapes and colors, which lends itself to his ability with puzzles. He loves cars and trucks, buses and airplanes. Of which he has many! He also likes music, singing and dancing which he does whenever possible. He even makes up his own little songs to sing!
His grandparents spoil him helplessly. All his favorite things appear at their houses when he's there. Did you know his grandparents came to Korea with us to bring Emmett here? All his grandparents were very excited and incredibly supportive. They are very proud of him, and his sweet little personality.
All in all, Emmett is growing up to be great little kid. I look forward to seeing his personality grow and change as he does. I wish that you could see these changes as well. But in your absence, I hope that I can provide him as much love and affection that you would if you were here.
God Bless -
Monday, April 16, 2007
Aren't I too old for this?
I'd like to use the fact that I have Mono as my reason for not posting in so very long a time. But really, I've only had Mono for about 2 weeks now. And as is obvious from the dates on each post, I haven't posted in longer than 2 months.
Back when I last updated, my job was ramping up for the long haul of late nights to get a major project done. Despite all my best intentions, I ended up pulling my old hours again. Although this time, coming home wasn't always as relaxing and rejunvenating as it used to be. Instead of coming home to sit on the couch and read or relax, I came home to being super mom! Cooking a good dinner, entertaining my little-man until bedtime, and then jumping back on the computer to work another 3-4 hours.
Everyone told me it was going to catch up to me. But you know how it is, we're all invinsible, right? Just like back when I was 16 - right? Invinsible to pesty little bugs like MONO! So God was being kind and gentle for the first few weeks - suggesting through others that I slow down. When I usual stubbornness persisted, God took another route... I mean, how many 30 year old moms do you know with Mono, the teenage adolescent illness of high school dramas.
So, Lord, I got it- I'm trying my very best to rest. It's just that - now I'm really bored. Suduko anyone?
Back when I last updated, my job was ramping up for the long haul of late nights to get a major project done. Despite all my best intentions, I ended up pulling my old hours again. Although this time, coming home wasn't always as relaxing and rejunvenating as it used to be. Instead of coming home to sit on the couch and read or relax, I came home to being super mom! Cooking a good dinner, entertaining my little-man until bedtime, and then jumping back on the computer to work another 3-4 hours.
Everyone told me it was going to catch up to me. But you know how it is, we're all invinsible, right? Just like back when I was 16 - right? Invinsible to pesty little bugs like MONO! So God was being kind and gentle for the first few weeks - suggesting through others that I slow down. When I usual stubbornness persisted, God took another route... I mean, how many 30 year old moms do you know with Mono, the teenage adolescent illness of high school dramas.
So, Lord, I got it- I'm trying my very best to rest. It's just that - now I'm really bored. Suduko anyone?
Sunday, February 25, 2007
I know, it's been a while. It's been very busy here, with work, friends visiting and Tae Kwon Do and all. That's right, Emmett has begun Tae Kwon Do classes at his preschool every Monday. He really seems to enjoy it, and it's been neat to hear of his progress. I am already in bragging mode from his Master's comment that he wants to clone Emmett. All because Emmett sits so nice and quietly and listens so well. That's my boy!
Emmett's English skills have really exploded. Most of what he says is understandable (at least by Craig and I). Although drool and draw sound a lot alike. =) His personality has also really blossomed. It's been such a joy to see more of who he is develop. He likes to be active, and he's a real goof ball sometimes. He makes up his own little songs, and would sit with Appa all day long reading books (or more like, having Appa read books to him). We have also discovered he has a mind for shapes and matching. It is not uncommon for him to point to a CR-V and say "That one is like 'Nea's" (Nea = Linaea, his cousin). He also likes to point out the triangles, squares and circles which appear on his dinner plate. At least he identifies them - he doesn't always EAT the circles (specifically the peas!).
Some of his favorite people are Halimony (Grandma) and Harboji (Grandpa). Halimony recently had a 2 week business trip, and you could tell that both Emmett and Halimony were struggling with withdrawl from each other. A little time together quickly provided their fix, and I'm sure that Halimony slept remarkably well that night! Emmett certainly did!
Next month will be 6 months home. This means our 6 month post-placement visit, and then our last steps in offically becoming a family. It is amazing to think that it was almost 6 months ago that we met Emmett. So much has changed since then. I can't imagine him not being here anymore. I check on his little sleeping form every night, and thank the Lord for him.
Speaking, of sleep, I'm in need of it. As it snows and snows outside, I'm worried about my morning commute. Heck, commute?!? I should worry about getting out of the driveway! Happy shovelling all my midwestern readers!
Emmett's English skills have really exploded. Most of what he says is understandable (at least by Craig and I). Although drool and draw sound a lot alike. =) His personality has also really blossomed. It's been such a joy to see more of who he is develop. He likes to be active, and he's a real goof ball sometimes. He makes up his own little songs, and would sit with Appa all day long reading books (or more like, having Appa read books to him). We have also discovered he has a mind for shapes and matching. It is not uncommon for him to point to a CR-V and say "That one is like 'Nea's" (Nea = Linaea, his cousin). He also likes to point out the triangles, squares and circles which appear on his dinner plate. At least he identifies them - he doesn't always EAT the circles (specifically the peas!).
Some of his favorite people are Halimony (Grandma) and Harboji (Grandpa). Halimony recently had a 2 week business trip, and you could tell that both Emmett and Halimony were struggling with withdrawl from each other. A little time together quickly provided their fix, and I'm sure that Halimony slept remarkably well that night! Emmett certainly did!
Next month will be 6 months home. This means our 6 month post-placement visit, and then our last steps in offically becoming a family. It is amazing to think that it was almost 6 months ago that we met Emmett. So much has changed since then. I can't imagine him not being here anymore. I check on his little sleeping form every night, and thank the Lord for him.
Speaking, of sleep, I'm in need of it. As it snows and snows outside, I'm worried about my morning commute. Heck, commute?!? I should worry about getting out of the driveway! Happy shovelling all my midwestern readers!
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Excuse me, Lord... Please no more snow?!?
To the heavenly complaint desk, with much respect,
I realize and enjoy the beauty of freshly fallen snow. And I appreciate the seasons as you, Lord, make them turn. I even like the occasional exercise that snow-shovelling provides. However, 3 straight days of shovelling my driveway has me a little tired, sore, and frankly cranky. And yet, the snow keeps coming.
Lord, would you mind dumping a little on my family in LA? They don't hardly get enough. Oh, and some snow on the Alps I'm sure no one would mind. If you could just divert those big stormy snow clouds over Lake Michigan (leaving them there) I would be very thankful.
You see, Lord, I'm spending a great deal of time in the car trying to get around in this fluffy white stuff. Craig has had it even rougher! No commute should ever be over 2 hours! So as I look out my window to my previously cleared driveway, and it looks like I haven't even begun, I respectfully BEG for relief.
Your humble snow shoveling servant,
Jennette
I realize and enjoy the beauty of freshly fallen snow. And I appreciate the seasons as you, Lord, make them turn. I even like the occasional exercise that snow-shovelling provides. However, 3 straight days of shovelling my driveway has me a little tired, sore, and frankly cranky. And yet, the snow keeps coming.
Lord, would you mind dumping a little on my family in LA? They don't hardly get enough. Oh, and some snow on the Alps I'm sure no one would mind. If you could just divert those big stormy snow clouds over Lake Michigan (leaving them there) I would be very thankful.
You see, Lord, I'm spending a great deal of time in the car trying to get around in this fluffy white stuff. Craig has had it even rougher! No commute should ever be over 2 hours! So as I look out my window to my previously cleared driveway, and it looks like I haven't even begun, I respectfully BEG for relief.
Your humble snow shoveling servant,
Jennette
Thursday, February 08, 2007
Here's to the real friends
Every now and then you develop friendships which you hope last a lifetime. Friends that you might now see regularly. Maybe you don't talk for months, but when you finally do, it is as if no time has passed at all.
I am blessed, lucky really, to have such friendships. Six friends from my freshman dorm floor, all of us really different personalities, yet all of us good reliable friends. These are the kind of friends that I know will come to my rescue when I'm heartbroken and hurting. These are my friends who rejoice with me, who challenge me, who ground me. And I can't wait to spend a weekend laughing over the newest time in our lives. I hope that in 10 years, we'll still be getting together once a year. That by then we'll be discussing the trials and tribulations of kids and career changes, and aging parents. Some have already been through troubling times. But I think we are unique in that we have stood by each other in our tears and joys. And I hope that we'll still be standing next to each other when we see our 25th college reunion loom before us.
I am blessed, lucky really, to have such friendships. Six friends from my freshman dorm floor, all of us really different personalities, yet all of us good reliable friends. These are the kind of friends that I know will come to my rescue when I'm heartbroken and hurting. These are my friends who rejoice with me, who challenge me, who ground me. And I can't wait to spend a weekend laughing over the newest time in our lives. I hope that in 10 years, we'll still be getting together once a year. That by then we'll be discussing the trials and tribulations of kids and career changes, and aging parents. Some have already been through troubling times. But I think we are unique in that we have stood by each other in our tears and joys. And I hope that we'll still be standing next to each other when we see our 25th college reunion loom before us.
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
2 yrs old today
When I turned 16, my father declared that I was now loosing one year every birthday. Apparently the thought of his little girl getting older was a bit shocking to him. With my father's 'new math', I am 2 today. Or in the math of reality, I'm 30.
When I compare age 2 with age 30, I can see some simliarities. For example, at the age of 2, you're still learning how to talk, how to walk confidently, and where you fit in your family. At the age of 30, I am learning how to talk (to a toddler), how to walk confidently (as a mother) and where I fit into my world! How can so little have changed?!?
As another friend who turned 30 this year said...I've survived. I just have one question, in Dad's new math, what happens when I turn 32?
When I compare age 2 with age 30, I can see some simliarities. For example, at the age of 2, you're still learning how to talk, how to walk confidently, and where you fit in your family. At the age of 30, I am learning how to talk (to a toddler), how to walk confidently (as a mother) and where I fit into my world! How can so little have changed?!?
As another friend who turned 30 this year said...I've survived. I just have one question, in Dad's new math, what happens when I turn 32?
Monday, January 29, 2007
Why I work
Today, Emmett had his last immunization to catch him up to all other 3yr olds. Needless to say, the nurse was still 5 ft from him when he started to cry. But the nurses are so great, they make it so fast, that it's done in no time.
I've always felt so bad about giving him so many shots so quickly after being home, that I'm a bit of a sucker for those big crocodile tears and pouty lip. As he hugged me after his shot, I whispered "I think you need some hot chocolate for being such a brave boy". He, of course, nodded fanatically yes. Hot chocolate is probably one of his favorite things right now.
One hour later, Emmett had finished his Starbucks hot chocolate, as I pulled into preschool. Emmett explained to me that he was going to cry when I left. (Not is such terms, of course - more like "Omma, I cry school".) He cries whenever I drop him off (it's normally Craig's routine), and it just kills me everytime I have to! As we walked happily toward school, I said I would miss him and I loved him, but I had to work. And since I had to work, I wanted him to have all the fun in the world!
He giggled, then asked "Why?"
"Because I have to make money" I answered
"Why?" asked Emmett
"Because Omma and Appa have to pay for things with money" I replied
Emmett stops in the hallway and looks up at the ceiling with his 'thinking' look... "Omma work for hot chocolate?"
Surpressing a full out laugh, I replied "Yes, Omma works for hot chocolate."
Just don't tell my employer!
I've always felt so bad about giving him so many shots so quickly after being home, that I'm a bit of a sucker for those big crocodile tears and pouty lip. As he hugged me after his shot, I whispered "I think you need some hot chocolate for being such a brave boy". He, of course, nodded fanatically yes. Hot chocolate is probably one of his favorite things right now.
One hour later, Emmett had finished his Starbucks hot chocolate, as I pulled into preschool. Emmett explained to me that he was going to cry when I left. (Not is such terms, of course - more like "Omma, I cry school".) He cries whenever I drop him off (it's normally Craig's routine), and it just kills me everytime I have to! As we walked happily toward school, I said I would miss him and I loved him, but I had to work. And since I had to work, I wanted him to have all the fun in the world!
He giggled, then asked "Why?"
"Because I have to make money" I answered
"Why?" asked Emmett
"Because Omma and Appa have to pay for things with money" I replied
Emmett stops in the hallway and looks up at the ceiling with his 'thinking' look... "Omma work for hot chocolate?"
Surpressing a full out laugh, I replied "Yes, Omma works for hot chocolate."
Just don't tell my employer!
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
What's in a name?
I remember lying in bed with baby-name book in hand trying to narrow the list of 100 million perfectly good baby names down to a list I could comprehend. Having just returned from a day-long adoption seminar which covered everything from grief to cultural identity to travel restrictions, I relished the idea of giving my little boy a new name for this new phase of life.
We'd read articles about intercountry adoption and naming. Was it better to maintain the Korean name, or give them a name that no one would end up questioning at every turn. Seemed even the experts and adult adoptees hadn't arrived at a concensis. We decided that we would maintain the given Korean name as a middle name for our child. To give him the opportunity to claim his Korean name as his first name if he desired in the future.
Of course this was all before we knew who our little boy would be. When we met Emmett, we called him resolutely by his Korean name. He had known that name for 2 years of his life, how else were we going to get his attention. Slowly we began to add "Emmett" to the front of his name. However, whenever he referred to himself he would use his Korean name. It didn't bother me that he used his Korean name, it was how he identified himself. Eventually we stopped using his Korean name and switched to another common Korean language norm, adding "ah" at the end of his American name. That's when he became Emmett ah. Finally, the ah was no longer needed, and Emmett would respond without batting an eye to Emmett. No modification needed. We had accomplished our goal, right? Now he would respond to the name WE gave him. That was the goal, right?
Last night, as we drove the hour long commute home from preschool & work, we talked about his day, and his friends. I began to joke that Emmett was a silly goose. I asked him, "Are you a silly goose?" his response was a giggly "no". I continued to play on the silly goose theme, until I asked "Are you Seong-jin?" to which he responded a firm (no giggles here) "No". When I asked are you "Emmett". He shouted "yes!". I guess he got it. I admit I was suprised and a bit sad by his reaction to his Korean name. What had happened?
I never realized what is in a name - but I think it holds a part of our identity. Would I still be me, if my name were Judy, Betsy, Zillah? Would a rose be as sweet if it was called a Stinkweed? I've had a number of names and nicknames throughout my life. I even searched for my own identity in my name. Forcing everyone to change the spelling of Jenny to better fit with my full name when I was about 12. Names are personal to us, how often do we accidentally offend someone by the innocent mispelling of their name? Or read a name and pronounce it incorrectly? I didn't think of how changing Emmett's name might change how he preceived his identity. I know that he is three, and might not even understand what has changed. But there is a part of me that grieves for the loss of his Korean name in day-to-day interaction. I don't want him to think that I only love him as Emmett. I loved him long before I knew he'd be Emmett - I love him as Seong-jin, as Emmett, as my son, because it's him that I love, not his name.
Only time will tell what Emmett's new name will mean to him, and whether he'll return to his Korean name. I hope that if/when that happens I will not be offended at his rejection of his American name. I hope that I can be encouraging and supportive no matter what he desires to be called. Even if it's Mephibosheth.
We'd read articles about intercountry adoption and naming. Was it better to maintain the Korean name, or give them a name that no one would end up questioning at every turn. Seemed even the experts and adult adoptees hadn't arrived at a concensis. We decided that we would maintain the given Korean name as a middle name for our child. To give him the opportunity to claim his Korean name as his first name if he desired in the future.
Of course this was all before we knew who our little boy would be. When we met Emmett, we called him resolutely by his Korean name. He had known that name for 2 years of his life, how else were we going to get his attention. Slowly we began to add "Emmett" to the front of his name. However, whenever he referred to himself he would use his Korean name. It didn't bother me that he used his Korean name, it was how he identified himself. Eventually we stopped using his Korean name and switched to another common Korean language norm, adding "ah" at the end of his American name. That's when he became Emmett ah. Finally, the ah was no longer needed, and Emmett would respond without batting an eye to Emmett. No modification needed. We had accomplished our goal, right? Now he would respond to the name WE gave him. That was the goal, right?
Last night, as we drove the hour long commute home from preschool & work, we talked about his day, and his friends. I began to joke that Emmett was a silly goose. I asked him, "Are you a silly goose?" his response was a giggly "no". I continued to play on the silly goose theme, until I asked "Are you Seong-jin?" to which he responded a firm (no giggles here) "No". When I asked are you "Emmett". He shouted "yes!".
I never realized what is in a name - but I think it holds a part of our identity. Would I still be me, if my name were Judy, Betsy, Zillah? Would a rose be as sweet if it was called a Stinkweed? I've had a number of names and nicknames throughout my life. I even searched for my own identity in my name. Forcing everyone to change the spelling of Jenny to better fit with my full name when I was about 12. Names are personal to us, how often do we accidentally offend someone by the innocent mispelling of their name? Or read a name and pronounce it incorrectly? I didn't think of how changing Emmett's name might change how he preceived his identity. I know that he is three, and might not even understand what has changed. But there is a part of me that grieves for the loss of his Korean name in day-to-day interaction. I don't want him to think that I only love him as Emmett. I loved him long before I knew he'd be Emmett - I love him as Seong-jin, as Emmett, as my son, because it's him that I love, not his name.
Only time will tell what Emmett's new name will mean to him, and whether he'll return to his Korean name. I hope that if/when that happens I will not be offended at his rejection of his American name. I hope that I can be encouraging and supportive no matter what he desires to be called. Even if it's Mephibosheth.
Thursday, January 04, 2007
Dancing Dervish
Who would have guessed that my energetic, but generally mild mannored kid would be a dancing dervish!
New Year's Eve, we attended a wedding reception, where it seems Emmett encountered his first dance floor and DJ. The entire night he barely left the dance floor. Sweater off, dress shirt unbuttoned two buttons, and sleeves rolled up, my little man charmed the dancing shoes off of an entire reception full of people. He danced with rhythm (sometimes), but most importantly, with abandon! His little face full of the joy of dancing. I had flash forwards of homecoming dances and him tearing up the dance floor to the cries of a dozen girls. He certainly had the attention of every adult female at the reception! Lord help me!
We literally had to bribe him off the dance floor to get him to drink some water. He would take two or three sips, and back to the floor. Slow dance, fast dance, it didn't matter - he just danced. He didn't care that he wasn't with the music 100% of the time. He just wanted to move! And he did. It still brings a smile to my face.
I'm hoping that I can get some pictures of my dancing boy up on the blog for all to enjoy. But until then - just use your imagination.
New Year's Eve, we attended a wedding reception, where it seems Emmett encountered his first dance floor and DJ. The entire night he barely left the dance floor. Sweater off, dress shirt unbuttoned two buttons, and sleeves rolled up, my little man charmed the dancing shoes off of an entire reception full of people. He danced with rhythm (sometimes), but most importantly, with abandon! His little face full of the joy of dancing. I had flash forwards of homecoming dances and him tearing up the dance floor to the cries of a dozen girls. He certainly had the attention of every adult female at the reception! Lord help me!
We literally had to bribe him off the dance floor to get him to drink some water. He would take two or three sips, and back to the floor. Slow dance, fast dance, it didn't matter - he just danced. He didn't care that he wasn't with the music 100% of the time. He just wanted to move! And he did. It still brings a smile to my face.
I'm hoping that I can get some pictures of my dancing boy up on the blog for all to enjoy. But until then - just use your imagination.
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