It seems there is a little interview fun sweeping through Blogville. I first learned of it through Julie at Tangobaby. She was interviewed by julochka here. Such fun! I wanted to be a part of it. Tangobaby is a busy interviewer, but anticipating her questions has been half the fun. To those of you visiting from Tangobaby's blog, welcome and thank you!
Without further ado...
Tangobaby: You wrote a beautiful post about living in a very small town, and about looking at the moon, and being with your family together and singing. How did life in a small town prepare you for being an adult? What gifts did you take with you from that experience?
Brainy and Beautiful: I lived in that small town for the first ten and a half years of my life. Maybe I idealize it a little because I think of it as the place where I lived and left my innocence. I guess it did prepare me for adulthood. Since the community was so small, I really got to know the adults and see how they lived. I could write whole posts about Bob, Pat, the Schwartz Family, the Julio's, the family who ran the candy store, the Smith's who owned and operated the farm stand, my bus driver, all my teachers... I don't want to bore you with my listing. I guess what they all had in common was a sense of responsibility to the community at large and a genuine concern and caring for all of the children in the community. That is what I took with me and have put into practice as an adult.
Living there was a gift. Specifically, looking back:
the freedom to roam
a sense of safety
knowing I am o.k. as I am
being seen. Invisibility was an impossibility.
understanding that children are integral to the community and its ability to flourish
knowing nature
an interconnectedness
TB: I know that you are a devoted nanny and love children and helping them grow. What do you think you most want to instill in the children that you take care of? What is the greatest gift you have ever received from a child? I know that your current position is in a transition. Do you see yourself continuing to work with children in some way?
B&B: The thing I most want to instill in the children that I care for is a sense of self. That is the first thing that comes to mind anyway. I believe that everything else I'd like to instill stems from self-awareness.
Greatest gift I have ever received from a child... The children are gifts in and of themselves. All that personality, energy, and unique perspective. I love when they run up to me and give me unsolicited hugs and kisses. Most of all, they help me to keep my inner child and sense of wonder alive which, in my limited experience, is one of the keys to lifelong happiness.
My current position is in transition. I am still wavering about whether to seek a new position. Right now I am leaning towards no. I have so many other pursuits vying for my attention. If I was to nanny again, I would want to be able to give the new family all that I have to give. Currently, with my attentions so divided, that is an impossibility.
For now, I will definitely continue to volunteer with little ones at Perkins School for the Blind one day a week. I can't imagine ever not working with children in some way shape or form.
TB: Tell us more about Teen Voices and your work with them. What is your hope for the girls you work with? What is your impression of how they see the world?
B&B: Teen Voices is indescribable. It is a magazine written by and for teen girls. It is also a mentoring program. Everyone in the non-profit organization is female. You'd think it might get catty, but I've never seen that happen. Teen Voices relies heavily on donations and even more heavily on volunteers. Last session I volunteered as a mentor working with three young women to put together an article about a chronic disease. Other volunteers mentored other groups of two or three girls working on articles devoted to other topics.
The magazine is really written by teen girls all over the world thanks to submissions. However, the teen girls working in the Teen Voices office, writing the articles into which the submissions are incorporated, are all living in and around Boston, Massachusetts. Many of them would be labeled "disadvantaged", "minority", or "at-risk", but I don't do labels. Neither does Teen Voices.
My hope for the girls I work with is that they will recognize their full potential and strive to achieve it and then some.
One of my greatest lessons from last session is that that each individual has their own concept of "normal". Each of us sees the world differently.
There were some commonalities among my mentees: Hope. A desire to learn and grow. Inner strength. Drive to succeed.
Commonalities that I believe we all have as humans. Really, at our core, we are all the same.
If I asked the girls how they see the world I believe each of the answers would be some variation of "as a place I am going to take by storm."
After last session, I was not ready to say good-bye. The Editor and Chief asked me to stay on as an Editorial Assistant working with her to put together the print and online magazine. I started last Thursday and am eager to see the whole process from a different angle.
TB: As a vegan, what is the most important thing about your lifestyle that you'd share with those of us who are not. If someone wanted to become a vegan or a vegetarian, what advice would you offer first?
B&B: First of all, every vegan is different. Reasons for veganism vary from vegan to vegan. There are various shades of veganism. Ask any vegan these questions and you would get different answers from each of them. So, I am only speaking for myself through the lens of my experience.
There are so many things I would love to share with you about being vegan. I don't do well with the whole "pick the most important thing" questions, huh? One thing: It is not as difficult as it first appears. It is not hard to find things to eat and continue to get the nutrients your body needs.
Also, there are so many benefits to being vegan. Health Benefits. Environmental Benefits. Other Benefits. Google "benefits of veganism" and you'll be quite surprised. I was quite impressed with this list on nursingdegree.net.
That brings me to my first piece of advice to anyone considering vegetarianism or veganism. Educate yourself through research (internet, books, magazines), talking to vegans, watching videos about veganism on YouTube, watching movies about veganism (Earthlings, Super Size Me, Fast Food Nation, I am an Animal, What's On Your Plate, Food Matters) talking to health professionals, and any other means you can think of. Then try it for a month or so. At the end of that month, decide if it is right for you.
TB: Tell us a little bit about Mr. B&B... he sounds like a lovely fella. How did you first meet? Does he mind that you write about him?
B&B: Oh, Mr. B&B... He is a lovely fella. Just today he woke me with little pecks on the cheek, cleared my car of snow, put his pj's in the hamper, hung up his towels after his shower, scooped the kitty litter, thanked me for making his lunch, and wished me a wonderful day with a hug as he left for work. The good most definitely outweighs the little annoyances.
Our first meeting is a longish story:
I met him at the craziest time of my life. May 5, 2001. It was the day after I had moved out of my parents house leaving only vague notes in my wake. I was a month and ten days shy of my 20th birthday. I had just decided to take a break from college and work for awhile. My best friend and her family took me in while I settled the unknowns.
A May 5th camping trip had been planned for Tanya's (my best friend) birthday. Tanya, Greg (her boyfriend), Nicole (a friend), Andrew (my very ex-boyfriend), a few of Andrew's friends, Mr. B&B, and I journeyed to the wild's of western Connecticut. There was grocery shopping, tent assembling, card playing, firewood collecting, kick ball playing, fire building, food preparing, story-telling fun. Then it got dark and cold and we went to bed. Greg & Tanya, Nicole, Brad, and I were in one tent. Having just moved, I didn't have a sleeping bag or a pillow. So, I used a blanket Tanya loaned me and hoped for the best. Not effective. I woke up screaming into the darkness and unable to feel my feet. Needless to say, everyone woke up. Many apologies later, I squeezed myself into a tight ball and wrapped the blankets around me more tightly.
Nicole tapped me on the shoulder, "B--- wants me to pass you his sweatshirt." I declined, but B--- wouldn't take no for an answer. Nicole got annoyed with being the go between. Somehow I ended up in B---'s sweatshirt, in my blanket, in his sleeping bag, with his arms around me, whispering until the sky began turning pink. That is how we began.
To answer the second part of the question, does he mind me writing about him, maybe a little. Mr. B&B knew I was a writer that first night in the tent. He actually encouraged me to blog. Sometimes he teases me with, "Uh oh... I better be careful or this will end up on the blog..." If I ever posted something about him that he wasn't comfortable with, he knows that all he has to do is say the word and it will come down. He is infinitely important to me and excluding him from my blog is impossible, but I respect his feelings. I feel kind of weird answering this for him. Maybe I can convince him to guest blog some time soon.
Until then, I leave you with...
Five Fun Facts About Mr. B&B:
He came in second in a statewide chess championship while in high school
He likes to sweep and dust.
While at home, he lives in his slippers.
He sings to the cat, personalizing the lyrics to popular songs to suit her.
He loves cars and has been behind the wheel at New Hampshire Motor Speedway and Circuit Mont-Tremblant.
Thanks for the dance, Julie!
Anyone else want to play?
Here are "The Rules":
1. Leave me a comment saying: "Interview me."
2. I will respond by emailing you five questions. (I get to pick the questions.)
3. You will update your blog with the answers and link to my blog in your post.
4. You will include this explanation and an offer to interview someone else in the same post.
5. When others comment asking to be interviewed you will ask them five questions.
I would love to channel my inner Barbara Walters/Oprah Winfrey <3
Most importantly, I'd love to learn more about all of you. Just say the word!
Showing posts with label Perkins School for the Blind. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Perkins School for the Blind. Show all posts
Monday, January 19, 2009
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Yoo-Hoo!
Hi, all! Where have I been?
Sewing. Sewing a polka dot pillow and adding a tulle "tutu" around the edges.
Volunteering. Our new Wednesday session at Perkins School for the Blind started today.
Overseeing. For three days men have been insulating my basement, kitchen & attic.
Photographing. Inside and outside, just so much loveliness waiting to be seen.
Tomorrow I start volunteering as an editorial assistant at Teen Voices Magazine.
In two days, the resilient and magnificent NieNie returns to blogging here.
In a bit more than a week, school begins.
I solemnly swear to keep nurturing my little corner of the blog world...
NO MATTER WHAT!
Sewing. Sewing a polka dot pillow and adding a tulle "tutu" around the edges.
Volunteering. Our new Wednesday session at Perkins School for the Blind started today.
Overseeing. For three days men have been insulating my basement, kitchen & attic.
Photographing. Inside and outside, just so much loveliness waiting to be seen.
Tomorrow I start volunteering as an editorial assistant at Teen Voices Magazine.
In two days, the resilient and magnificent NieNie returns to blogging here.
In a bit more than a week, school begins.
I solemnly swear to keep nurturing my little corner of the blog world...
NO MATTER WHAT!
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Your Personal Year In Review
Usually I reflect and make resolutions on my birthday instead of at the end of the calendar year, BUT this is an amazing year-end list! Melissa at birds.eye.view posted this listy quiz of sorts By Ariane de Bonvoisin and found on HuffPo. As Melissa says, it’s one you do yourself!
* What was the best thing that happened to me this year?
My husband and I moved into a two-family turned two condos with all the original 1920's charms and we have made it a home.
* What did I do this year that I’m really proud of?
I have always wanted to volunteer. Finally, instead of just searching for opportunities, I took action. Volunteering is more challenging and also more rewarding than I ever imagined.
I began blogging regularly and putting myself and my writing out there in just a small way. Facing that fear is something I am proud of.
Started focusing on my mental health and am taking steps to improve it.
* Who did I really help?
I like to think I have helped my fellow volunteers and the families I have begun to know at Perkins School for the Blind.
Volunteering/Interning at Teen Voices Magazine, I hope I have helped the young women I have been working with to grow and change for the better.
By sending words of encouragement, contributing to Threads of Love, and spreading their story to everyone I can, I have tried to help the Nielson Family in my own small way.
I have tried to help my friends and family by always being here to listen, emote, and love.
I have tried to help my husband by getting up every morning to make his lunch and send him off to work with a hug and words of encouragement, by thanking him every night for working so hard to take care of our little family and for all of the support he gives to me no matter what, by participating in events that his employer puts on (volunteering at charity run, making apple pie, going to the Holiday Party), by fully understanding and encouraging all of the work travel he needs to do, by keeping the house running so he can leave his stress at work and fully relax when he is at home, and by just loving him.
* Who do I need to thank and acknowledge for having been there for me?
All of the people who I have helped have in turn helped me.
The other volunteers at Perkins have been friendly and encouraging. The families at Perkins have shown me what true courage and love really are. The child I worked one-on-one with at Perkins helped me to be patient, adapt, see the world in new ways, and pay attention to and acknowledge even the smallest accomplishments.
The young women at Teen Voices have helped to recognize that "normal" varies from person to person. They have helped me to be a better leader and listener. They have helped me to see my own possibilities by exhibiting theirs.
The Nielson and Clark families have helped me to grow in faith, to cherish every moment, to be grateful every day, to find the positive in every situation, to begin to figure out what I want my family to be like should my husband and I be blessed with children, to show my love to my husband every day in every way... Just so many lessons from NieNie, CJane, AliceKind, Lizzy Writes, and Christian.
My friends and family have helped me by being there to listen, emote, and love.
My husband has helped me by supporting our family, giving me the freedom to pursue all of my pursuits to the fullest, letting me be me, loving me just the way I am... Just being the incredible man he is... The yin to my yang.
* What are the top three lessons I learned?
It is more than o.k. to seek help when you need it.
We are all the same, even in our differences.
Our strength lies in our weaknesses.
* What increased my happiness and joy this year?
Making friends with complete strangers through blogging and volunteering.
Finding time for writing in one way or another nearly every day.
An "at home" vacation with my husband during which we went to Nascar in New Hampshire, the Science Museum, wandered around Boston, and went to the Brockton Fair, among other adventures.
Spending time in Maine with my oldest sister and her family.
* What’s something I got through that was really tough?
It has been an overall easy year aside from the following two somewhat difficult happenings:
The family dog dying unexpectedly was difficult.
My grandfather passed away.
* What did I avoid that I must pay more attention to in 2009?
Conflict. I need to work on speaking my mind especially when I have anxiety built up around doing so due to fear of rejection, fear of being the recipient of anger, and fear of disappointment and/or disappointing.
* What character trait did I develop most this year?
Open-mindedness. I feel I have been more receptive to the views of others and to recognizing things in and about myself that I never have before. My mind just feels much more open to possibility and alternatives.
* What new people did I meet that are now in my life?
I met Lyle and Angela who live in the condo above us. They are friendly, interesting, and very giving people. Couldn't ask for better neighbors! We definitely lucked out :-)
I met my fellow volunteers and the families at Perkins and the young women and staff at Teen Voices magazine.
I met my postcard buddy, Melissa, who I am so happy to be getting to know. Maybe a visit to San Francisco is in the cards for me in 2009 <3
There are still memories to be made in 2008, but I am looking forward to 2009 and whatever is coming my way as I, a self proclaimed work in progress, evolve.
* What was the best thing that happened to me this year?
My husband and I moved into a two-family turned two condos with all the original 1920's charms and we have made it a home.
* What did I do this year that I’m really proud of?
I have always wanted to volunteer. Finally, instead of just searching for opportunities, I took action. Volunteering is more challenging and also more rewarding than I ever imagined.
I began blogging regularly and putting myself and my writing out there in just a small way. Facing that fear is something I am proud of.
Started focusing on my mental health and am taking steps to improve it.
* Who did I really help?
I like to think I have helped my fellow volunteers and the families I have begun to know at Perkins School for the Blind.
Volunteering/Interning at Teen Voices Magazine, I hope I have helped the young women I have been working with to grow and change for the better.
By sending words of encouragement, contributing to Threads of Love, and spreading their story to everyone I can, I have tried to help the Nielson Family in my own small way.
I have tried to help my friends and family by always being here to listen, emote, and love.
I have tried to help my husband by getting up every morning to make his lunch and send him off to work with a hug and words of encouragement, by thanking him every night for working so hard to take care of our little family and for all of the support he gives to me no matter what, by participating in events that his employer puts on (volunteering at charity run, making apple pie, going to the Holiday Party), by fully understanding and encouraging all of the work travel he needs to do, by keeping the house running so he can leave his stress at work and fully relax when he is at home, and by just loving him.
* Who do I need to thank and acknowledge for having been there for me?
All of the people who I have helped have in turn helped me.
The other volunteers at Perkins have been friendly and encouraging. The families at Perkins have shown me what true courage and love really are. The child I worked one-on-one with at Perkins helped me to be patient, adapt, see the world in new ways, and pay attention to and acknowledge even the smallest accomplishments.
The young women at Teen Voices have helped to recognize that "normal" varies from person to person. They have helped me to be a better leader and listener. They have helped me to see my own possibilities by exhibiting theirs.
The Nielson and Clark families have helped me to grow in faith, to cherish every moment, to be grateful every day, to find the positive in every situation, to begin to figure out what I want my family to be like should my husband and I be blessed with children, to show my love to my husband every day in every way... Just so many lessons from NieNie, CJane, AliceKind, Lizzy Writes, and Christian.
My friends and family have helped me by being there to listen, emote, and love.
My husband has helped me by supporting our family, giving me the freedom to pursue all of my pursuits to the fullest, letting me be me, loving me just the way I am... Just being the incredible man he is... The yin to my yang.
* What are the top three lessons I learned?
It is more than o.k. to seek help when you need it.
We are all the same, even in our differences.
Our strength lies in our weaknesses.
* What increased my happiness and joy this year?
Making friends with complete strangers through blogging and volunteering.
Finding time for writing in one way or another nearly every day.
An "at home" vacation with my husband during which we went to Nascar in New Hampshire, the Science Museum, wandered around Boston, and went to the Brockton Fair, among other adventures.
Spending time in Maine with my oldest sister and her family.
* What’s something I got through that was really tough?
It has been an overall easy year aside from the following two somewhat difficult happenings:
The family dog dying unexpectedly was difficult.
My grandfather passed away.
* What did I avoid that I must pay more attention to in 2009?
Conflict. I need to work on speaking my mind especially when I have anxiety built up around doing so due to fear of rejection, fear of being the recipient of anger, and fear of disappointment and/or disappointing.
* What character trait did I develop most this year?
Open-mindedness. I feel I have been more receptive to the views of others and to recognizing things in and about myself that I never have before. My mind just feels much more open to possibility and alternatives.
* What new people did I meet that are now in my life?
I met Lyle and Angela who live in the condo above us. They are friendly, interesting, and very giving people. Couldn't ask for better neighbors! We definitely lucked out :-)
I met my fellow volunteers and the families at Perkins and the young women and staff at Teen Voices magazine.
I met my postcard buddy, Melissa, who I am so happy to be getting to know. Maybe a visit to San Francisco is in the cards for me in 2009 <3
There are still memories to be made in 2008, but I am looking forward to 2009 and whatever is coming my way as I, a self proclaimed work in progress, evolve.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Three Teen Girls and a Baby Boy
At the end of October I met Three Teen Girls, my mentees at Teen Voices Magazine. Tuesday and Thursday afternoons we spend two hours together working on their article. Four hours a week doesn't sound like much, but those hours are jam-packed with work, talk, and giggles. Those girls fill-up far more than four hours of my week and no one is more surprised about it than me. I think about the girls every day. I jot things down in my internship journal constantly. I look for tools and resources to help them with their work. I loosely prepare plans for our time together. Time consuming, eh? Why? The only conceivable answer is LOVE. I love the magazine, the work, and, most of all, the girls.
The girls. They have opened my eyes, my heart, and my mind.
My eyes are attuned to details, to each girl's individual world...
My heart is more expansive in responsive to the love the girls so willingly give...
My mind recognizes differences in similarities and similarities in differences...
Eyes, heart, and mind are less stubborn, less resistant, far more flexible...
I am so grateful for the girls' trust, honesty, hard work, and openness to possibilities. It is amazing that we are halfway through our time together. I am loving every minute.
***
One morning a week, I volunteer at Perkin's School for the Blind. I work with an eleven month old Baby Boy. Baby Boy has Nystagmus, possibly 80/20 vision, and low muscle tone. I work with him one-on-one in the early intervention classroom (two trained teachers are present) while his mother goes to an informational workshop with other parents.
Talking with people about Perkins, the common reaction is "How sad." and/or "Seeing what can happen, your desire for children must be much less." For me, there is only joy and my desire for children has remained high and possibly increased. I have always been an optimist, a wisher, a hope'r', and a dreamer.
"How sad." is never something I have felt at Perkins. "How amazing! How inspiring! How adorable! How strong! How beautiful! How smart!" Those are feelings I have had. Every morning I spend there with Baby Boy brings joy. Each successive morning, Baby Boy makes progress. The first morning I spent with him, he napped from 11 to 11:45, but each week he has slept less and less. As time goes on, I notice him sitting up on his own for longer periods of time, reaching for things that I place further away from him, showing me that he is growing physically stronger and that perhaps he can see further than doctors first imagined. He shows me his intellect by repeating actions I have shown him in the past such as banging two items together to make "music". This week, for the first time, when I laid him on the changing table he began furiously kicking his feet, grinning from ear to ear and giggling. Pretty fantastic for a little guy with low muscle tone. Often children with low muscle tone also have trouble with talking and start making sounds much later than normal, but Baby Boy talks more and more each week and especially enjoys talking with me and the giant teddy bear in the classroom. Baby Boy has taught me to live even more in the moment and pay even closer attention to every detail, any shred of progress, than I already do. He has also taught me to be more determined and to push myself well past the imaginary limits I may place on myself. Baby Boy is Joy. Joy leaves no room for sadness.
As far as my still strong, perhaps even stronger, desire to have babies, I don't see how volunteering at Perkins could ever negatively impact that desire. The parents I meet, especially Baby Boy's mother, are inspiring, empowered, and educating themselves in order to be the best parents and advocates for their children. It is a privilege to know them and to observe them. They are incredible and I am in awe. Working with Baby Boy, noting his progress, cuddling his cuddliness, imagining his infinite possibilities, reveling in his accomplishments... How could any of that decrease my desire for babies? Yes, of course these parents and these children have additional challenges, but I watch them continuously meet and overcome them. "but you must have some fear of your children having a disability..." you might venture. I acknowledge that there is always fear when one takes a chance and leaps into the unknown. Bringing a child into the world may be the ultimate gamble any human ever takes. I say, the bigger the gamble, the bigger the reward. I also feel that having this experience at Perkins, getting this hands-on education about differently-abled children, has so far given me greater confidence in my ability and readiness to deal with any challenges my children may have. My strong desire to have children is still intact.
So, fellow bloggers and blog readers, that is where I have been spending my time, with Three Teen Girls and a Baby Boy. Not quite Three Men and a Baby - "They changed her diapers. She changed their lives.", but, minus the cheesy tagline, better I wager.
The girls. They have opened my eyes, my heart, and my mind.
My eyes are attuned to details, to each girl's individual world...
My heart is more expansive in responsive to the love the girls so willingly give...
My mind recognizes differences in similarities and similarities in differences...
Eyes, heart, and mind are less stubborn, less resistant, far more flexible...
I am so grateful for the girls' trust, honesty, hard work, and openness to possibilities. It is amazing that we are halfway through our time together. I am loving every minute.
***
One morning a week, I volunteer at Perkin's School for the Blind. I work with an eleven month old Baby Boy. Baby Boy has Nystagmus, possibly 80/20 vision, and low muscle tone. I work with him one-on-one in the early intervention classroom (two trained teachers are present) while his mother goes to an informational workshop with other parents.
Talking with people about Perkins, the common reaction is "How sad." and/or "Seeing what can happen, your desire for children must be much less." For me, there is only joy and my desire for children has remained high and possibly increased. I have always been an optimist, a wisher, a hope'r', and a dreamer.
"How sad." is never something I have felt at Perkins. "How amazing! How inspiring! How adorable! How strong! How beautiful! How smart!" Those are feelings I have had. Every morning I spend there with Baby Boy brings joy. Each successive morning, Baby Boy makes progress. The first morning I spent with him, he napped from 11 to 11:45, but each week he has slept less and less. As time goes on, I notice him sitting up on his own for longer periods of time, reaching for things that I place further away from him, showing me that he is growing physically stronger and that perhaps he can see further than doctors first imagined. He shows me his intellect by repeating actions I have shown him in the past such as banging two items together to make "music". This week, for the first time, when I laid him on the changing table he began furiously kicking his feet, grinning from ear to ear and giggling. Pretty fantastic for a little guy with low muscle tone. Often children with low muscle tone also have trouble with talking and start making sounds much later than normal, but Baby Boy talks more and more each week and especially enjoys talking with me and the giant teddy bear in the classroom. Baby Boy has taught me to live even more in the moment and pay even closer attention to every detail, any shred of progress, than I already do. He has also taught me to be more determined and to push myself well past the imaginary limits I may place on myself. Baby Boy is Joy. Joy leaves no room for sadness.
As far as my still strong, perhaps even stronger, desire to have babies, I don't see how volunteering at Perkins could ever negatively impact that desire. The parents I meet, especially Baby Boy's mother, are inspiring, empowered, and educating themselves in order to be the best parents and advocates for their children. It is a privilege to know them and to observe them. They are incredible and I am in awe. Working with Baby Boy, noting his progress, cuddling his cuddliness, imagining his infinite possibilities, reveling in his accomplishments... How could any of that decrease my desire for babies? Yes, of course these parents and these children have additional challenges, but I watch them continuously meet and overcome them. "but you must have some fear of your children having a disability..." you might venture. I acknowledge that there is always fear when one takes a chance and leaps into the unknown. Bringing a child into the world may be the ultimate gamble any human ever takes. I say, the bigger the gamble, the bigger the reward. I also feel that having this experience at Perkins, getting this hands-on education about differently-abled children, has so far given me greater confidence in my ability and readiness to deal with any challenges my children may have. My strong desire to have children is still intact.
So, fellow bloggers and blog readers, that is where I have been spending my time, with Three Teen Girls and a Baby Boy. Not quite Three Men and a Baby - "They changed her diapers. She changed their lives.", but, minus the cheesy tagline, better I wager.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
WedNieNie'sDay - #3
This week I am grateful for:
1940's Furniture. With Grampy's passing this summer it came time for my father and his five siblings to clean out their parents' home. When asked to make up a list of items I might like to have it varied from animal shaped cups and cereal bowls with straws built in to the 1940's dining room set. I told my father I thought it important that he and his siblings have "first dibs" if you will and stressed that I was happy with my memories. I ended up with the dining room set. It is gorgeous in my 1920's house where it is bathed in the light of the stained glass window. The table is an oak "extension table" meaning that the extra leaf is stored under the table top. The legs of the chairs and the table are curved and the chairs have designed backs. The buffet has all kinds of drawers one of which is lined with velvet for silverware storage and it too has all kinds of curves and contours. The set also came with a corner cabinet which is with my parents for now because there is not one corner in our dining room that isn't a doorway or window. It makes me happy to look at the set and remember the past while dreaming of the future memories to be made sitting around it.
One view of the dining room (furniture is staging furniture, not ours)
Another view of the dining room (again, staging furniture, not ours)
Photography. My digital camera broke in January and I miss it terribly. It was under warranty and I sent it back, but have not received a check yet. This week I broke down and bought two throwaway 35mm cameras to photograph all the beauty of Autumn. What fun I had taking pictures of heart-shaped chrysanthemums, apple orchards, and the Topsfield Fair! How I wish I could share them with all of you... (sigh) I've really missed having photography as a creative outlet. Grateful for the reminder, for the act, and for the renewed motivation to bug the warranty people for a check so I can get back to doing something that brings me such joy.
Fall Fun. On Saturday afternoon my newly-arrived-home-from-Cali husband and I met our friends Tanya and Greg at Honey Pot Hill Orchards in Stow, MA for an afternoon of apple picking. We wandered the orchards admiring the cloud-free blue sky, breathing in the fresh air, and picking apples. We picked up cider and cider donuts and candy apples at the store. My favorite part of the orchard experience? Climbing the wooden ladders that looked like they were straight out of Anne of Green Gables. Remember when Anne brought the head of the school she was teaching at home for the summer and they picked apples? Just like that, but I wasn't wearing an apron over my dress.
On Monday Mr. B&B took me to the Topsfield Fair. We visited the animals, saw the fruit and vegetable exhibits and the flower exhibit, and walked around the carnival rides part of it. We ate sweet potato fries and drank fresh squeezed lemonade. Just glorious! It was nice to walk around holding hands and laughing and talking after so many days of him being away on business. Fairs are also always a great opportunity to get back in touch with the inner child. Yippee!
Patient Husband. Our Fall Fun was not without frustration. Frustration = Traffic. Going apple picking meant waiting in a one mile long line of traffic for one hour. Going to the fair meant waiting in a forty-five minute line of traffic once we got off the highway. Mr. B&B was driving, both times. He did not make a peep, not one complaint slipped from his lips. He just rolled down the windows, opened the sunroof, and talked baseball, basketball, politics, and recollected Fall memories of yore. Watching him and his chosen reactions is such a lesson for me and deepens my appreciation and love for him. Mr. B&B, as Carly Simon sings "Baby, baby, darlin', You're the Best" <3
Nobody Does It Better by Carly Simon on YouTube
Long Weekend. This long weekend was especially sweet because it coincided with my husband returning from his business trip. Having three days to acclimate to each other and sleep in and be spontaneous was luxurious. Grateful for that quality time for that length of time anytime but especially upon Mr. B&B's return.
Ingenuity. Since I am a student and am only nannying a few times a month, it is important to me to help save money where we can. One of the things I do is try to find creative uses for items we already have around the house OR identify a want one or both of us has and see how I can meet and satisfy that want using things we already have. My latest want is Fall and Halloween decorations for the house and front porch. I have old spice jars, cloth, felt, thread and construction paper. I am thinking black and orange paper chains with paper ghosts and/or paper spiders and/or paper pumpkins hanging from them by thread, a cloth and felt leaf wreath for the door, and perhaps paper flowers in spice jars on the three steps leading up to our front porch. Ingenuity, what a gift!
Gift of Giving. My internship at Teen Voices begins next week and I can not wait to give my time and attention to the young women I'll be working with. I sent fabric to Threads of Love for the Nielson's. I also interviewed at Perkins School for the Blind yesterday and will begin working with them once my Cori form passes. Every day I am able to give my time and attention and thoughts and prayers to people I love. In giving whatever I have to give I feel I also get so much back. I feel better physically and mentally, my outlook is brighter, my satisfaction in using my gifts is so great... I just think that giving is one of the greatest gifts, it is free, and we all have something to give.
Friendly Neighbors. When we moved in to our condo this past spring, Mr. B&B and I were not sure who would end up living in the condo above us. We imagined all kinds of scenarios, but we always wished and hoped for good, friendly, reasonable people who, at the very least, we could work with to care for the house, and, at the very best, would become dear friends. Angela and Lyle are certainly a wish come true. At least once a month we meet for a movie and/or a "condo association meeting" and we always have fun. We even swap yummy baked goods frequently. When it comes to the house, we hear each other out, take every opinion into consideration and come to a decision or compromise together. If you are reading #10 Residents, so glad you are our neighbors and are quickly becoming our friends!
Mr. Rogers "Won't You Be My Neighbor" on YouTube
Prayers and positivity to Nie and Christian & family.
Good night, sleep tight, don't let the bed bugs bite <3
1940's Furniture. With Grampy's passing this summer it came time for my father and his five siblings to clean out their parents' home. When asked to make up a list of items I might like to have it varied from animal shaped cups and cereal bowls with straws built in to the 1940's dining room set. I told my father I thought it important that he and his siblings have "first dibs" if you will and stressed that I was happy with my memories. I ended up with the dining room set. It is gorgeous in my 1920's house where it is bathed in the light of the stained glass window. The table is an oak "extension table" meaning that the extra leaf is stored under the table top. The legs of the chairs and the table are curved and the chairs have designed backs. The buffet has all kinds of drawers one of which is lined with velvet for silverware storage and it too has all kinds of curves and contours. The set also came with a corner cabinet which is with my parents for now because there is not one corner in our dining room that isn't a doorway or window. It makes me happy to look at the set and remember the past while dreaming of the future memories to be made sitting around it.
One view of the dining room (furniture is staging furniture, not ours)
Another view of the dining room (again, staging furniture, not ours)
Photography. My digital camera broke in January and I miss it terribly. It was under warranty and I sent it back, but have not received a check yet. This week I broke down and bought two throwaway 35mm cameras to photograph all the beauty of Autumn. What fun I had taking pictures of heart-shaped chrysanthemums, apple orchards, and the Topsfield Fair! How I wish I could share them with all of you... (sigh) I've really missed having photography as a creative outlet. Grateful for the reminder, for the act, and for the renewed motivation to bug the warranty people for a check so I can get back to doing something that brings me such joy.
Fall Fun. On Saturday afternoon my newly-arrived-home-from-Cali husband and I met our friends Tanya and Greg at Honey Pot Hill Orchards in Stow, MA for an afternoon of apple picking. We wandered the orchards admiring the cloud-free blue sky, breathing in the fresh air, and picking apples. We picked up cider and cider donuts and candy apples at the store. My favorite part of the orchard experience? Climbing the wooden ladders that looked like they were straight out of Anne of Green Gables. Remember when Anne brought the head of the school she was teaching at home for the summer and they picked apples? Just like that, but I wasn't wearing an apron over my dress.
On Monday Mr. B&B took me to the Topsfield Fair. We visited the animals, saw the fruit and vegetable exhibits and the flower exhibit, and walked around the carnival rides part of it. We ate sweet potato fries and drank fresh squeezed lemonade. Just glorious! It was nice to walk around holding hands and laughing and talking after so many days of him being away on business. Fairs are also always a great opportunity to get back in touch with the inner child. Yippee!
Patient Husband. Our Fall Fun was not without frustration. Frustration = Traffic. Going apple picking meant waiting in a one mile long line of traffic for one hour. Going to the fair meant waiting in a forty-five minute line of traffic once we got off the highway. Mr. B&B was driving, both times. He did not make a peep, not one complaint slipped from his lips. He just rolled down the windows, opened the sunroof, and talked baseball, basketball, politics, and recollected Fall memories of yore. Watching him and his chosen reactions is such a lesson for me and deepens my appreciation and love for him. Mr. B&B, as Carly Simon sings "Baby, baby, darlin', You're the Best" <3
Nobody Does It Better by Carly Simon on YouTube
Long Weekend. This long weekend was especially sweet because it coincided with my husband returning from his business trip. Having three days to acclimate to each other and sleep in and be spontaneous was luxurious. Grateful for that quality time for that length of time anytime but especially upon Mr. B&B's return.
Ingenuity. Since I am a student and am only nannying a few times a month, it is important to me to help save money where we can. One of the things I do is try to find creative uses for items we already have around the house OR identify a want one or both of us has and see how I can meet and satisfy that want using things we already have. My latest want is Fall and Halloween decorations for the house and front porch. I have old spice jars, cloth, felt, thread and construction paper. I am thinking black and orange paper chains with paper ghosts and/or paper spiders and/or paper pumpkins hanging from them by thread, a cloth and felt leaf wreath for the door, and perhaps paper flowers in spice jars on the three steps leading up to our front porch. Ingenuity, what a gift!
Gift of Giving. My internship at Teen Voices begins next week and I can not wait to give my time and attention to the young women I'll be working with. I sent fabric to Threads of Love for the Nielson's. I also interviewed at Perkins School for the Blind yesterday and will begin working with them once my Cori form passes. Every day I am able to give my time and attention and thoughts and prayers to people I love. In giving whatever I have to give I feel I also get so much back. I feel better physically and mentally, my outlook is brighter, my satisfaction in using my gifts is so great... I just think that giving is one of the greatest gifts, it is free, and we all have something to give.
Friendly Neighbors. When we moved in to our condo this past spring, Mr. B&B and I were not sure who would end up living in the condo above us. We imagined all kinds of scenarios, but we always wished and hoped for good, friendly, reasonable people who, at the very least, we could work with to care for the house, and, at the very best, would become dear friends. Angela and Lyle are certainly a wish come true. At least once a month we meet for a movie and/or a "condo association meeting" and we always have fun. We even swap yummy baked goods frequently. When it comes to the house, we hear each other out, take every opinion into consideration and come to a decision or compromise together. If you are reading #10 Residents, so glad you are our neighbors and are quickly becoming our friends!
Mr. Rogers "Won't You Be My Neighbor" on YouTube
Prayers and positivity to Nie and Christian & family.
Good night, sleep tight, don't let the bed bugs bite <3
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
WedNieNie'sDay - #2
This week I am grateful for:
A Good Cry. I had one on Monday night. Crying so hard I was shaking. Crying so loud the cat hid under the bed. Crying so long I gave myself a headache. When it was over, the headache subsided and I felt so good. I am a woman of words, but sometimes a good cry can be even more expressive.
Billy Elliot. I watched this movie from beginning to end for the first time this week. It is about a boy who is taking boxing lessons at his father's request, but he really loves to dance. It is a story about family, staying true to yourself, listening to your heart, and following your dreams and seeing them to fruition no matter what. Positive and inspirational without being hokey. Also, wonderful to watch a movie about a boy's coming of age because they seem so few and far between.
Internship Training. I can not say enough about this. Training was 5-9 on Friday and 9-5 on Saturday. I met the women of Teen Voices Magazine, the other Editorial Mentors, and heard the stories of teen girls who have participated in the program. It was uplifting and educational and has me all fired up for the experience. I want to do all I can to live up to this enormous responsibility and to open myself up to whatever the experience brings. It was a long evening and Saturday of training, but I loved and am grateful for every minute.
Volunteer Opportunity. Over the summer I applied to volunteer at Perkins School for the Blind. Today I heard from them and next week I go in for an interview. The minimum commitment is two hours a week for six months. I hope to be offered the opportunity to give of myself and to use the gifts I have been given. At the very least, I am grateful for the opportunity to interview.
Kid-isms. I put on my "nanny hat" twice this week and the kids are just so insightful and honest and funny. The oldest will be five in November (Didn't you just love being five!?!?) and his awareness of things is really beginning to broaden which means one never knows what he is going to say. He is the ring bearer in a wedding this coming weekend and told me all about how he is going to carry the pillow with the rings on it down the aisle and then he is going to eat chicken and shake his bum all night long in his shiny dancing shoes. Cracks me up! The youngest is 17 months and her personality is really emerging. She giggles at everything and, because her vocabulary is still limited, her body does a lot of the talking. When she is impatient she screws up her face and stomps her feet. When she wants to be upside down or see something that is behind her she arches her back and hangs her head behind her. She knows how to say "all done", but sometimes she will just put her hand in front of her face or wave her hands in front of the object and shake her head no. So ingenious and so funny.
Frozen Berries. Three words: yummy, yummy, yummy. Some how berries manage to taste better frozen. Maybe it is because we have to slow down and bite carefully or suck on it for a long time and that heightens our sense of taste. Anyway, I can't get enough.
Chrysanthemums. Fall is here! Mums produce so many flowers and they come in so many colors. Luscious! Up close there are so many tiny petals making up each blossom. Miraculous! At my local farm they also come in hanging baskets. Opulent! Mr. BrainyandBeautiful (Mr.B&B) is on a business trip, but when he returns I think a trip to the farm for mums and other fall fun is in order.
Business Trips. I am always sad to see Mr.B&B head off to intriguing destinations all over the country, but I am grateful for these trips as well. I am grateful that his employer trusts him and values him highly enough to send him off to get more training and to represent them and to return to teach others what he has learned. I am all for him taking every opportunity he is afforded. He is so supportive of me and when I have to opportunity to give that support back I do.
Why else am I grateful for business trips? On the selfish side, I must admit, every once in awhile it is nice to clean as I wish and keep it that way, have full control of the t.v. remote, and put toasted bread with peanut butter and sliced apples on a plate and call it dinner.
This week Mr. B&B is somewhere in California. So, Californian readers, if you see a tall guy with startling green eyes wearing a Boston Celtics hat wandering your city, say hello and give him a hug from Mrs. B&B and let him know he is missed.
North End, Boston. I love all of Boston, but I find this part of the city particularly magical. On Saturday Mr. B&B and I treated ourselves to a stroll through this Italian neighborhood. There is always great people watching and Mr. B&B is always thrilled when the occasional Ferrari or Porsche passes by. Open air dining, amazing aromas, gardens on terraces, musicians walking the streets playing accordions, watching cobblers fix shoes through the windows, Italian groceries, are just some of what contributes to the magic. My favorite restaurant is La Famiglia Giorgios. Saturday we ate at Bella Vista on Hanover Street which came in a close second. It was a wonderful break in our very busy schedules during which we enjoyed great conversation and uninterrupted hand holding in an always magical place.
As far as NieNie and Christian, CJane reports that they continue to improve. Slow and steady wins the race. Please continue to think of and pray for them.
Prayers and positivity to Nie and Christian & family.
Good night, sleep tight, don't let the bed bugs bite <3
A Good Cry. I had one on Monday night. Crying so hard I was shaking. Crying so loud the cat hid under the bed. Crying so long I gave myself a headache. When it was over, the headache subsided and I felt so good. I am a woman of words, but sometimes a good cry can be even more expressive.
Billy Elliot. I watched this movie from beginning to end for the first time this week. It is about a boy who is taking boxing lessons at his father's request, but he really loves to dance. It is a story about family, staying true to yourself, listening to your heart, and following your dreams and seeing them to fruition no matter what. Positive and inspirational without being hokey. Also, wonderful to watch a movie about a boy's coming of age because they seem so few and far between.
Internship Training. I can not say enough about this. Training was 5-9 on Friday and 9-5 on Saturday. I met the women of Teen Voices Magazine, the other Editorial Mentors, and heard the stories of teen girls who have participated in the program. It was uplifting and educational and has me all fired up for the experience. I want to do all I can to live up to this enormous responsibility and to open myself up to whatever the experience brings. It was a long evening and Saturday of training, but I loved and am grateful for every minute.
Volunteer Opportunity. Over the summer I applied to volunteer at Perkins School for the Blind. Today I heard from them and next week I go in for an interview. The minimum commitment is two hours a week for six months. I hope to be offered the opportunity to give of myself and to use the gifts I have been given. At the very least, I am grateful for the opportunity to interview.
Kid-isms. I put on my "nanny hat" twice this week and the kids are just so insightful and honest and funny. The oldest will be five in November (Didn't you just love being five!?!?) and his awareness of things is really beginning to broaden which means one never knows what he is going to say. He is the ring bearer in a wedding this coming weekend and told me all about how he is going to carry the pillow with the rings on it down the aisle and then he is going to eat chicken and shake his bum all night long in his shiny dancing shoes. Cracks me up! The youngest is 17 months and her personality is really emerging. She giggles at everything and, because her vocabulary is still limited, her body does a lot of the talking. When she is impatient she screws up her face and stomps her feet. When she wants to be upside down or see something that is behind her she arches her back and hangs her head behind her. She knows how to say "all done", but sometimes she will just put her hand in front of her face or wave her hands in front of the object and shake her head no. So ingenious and so funny.
Frozen Berries. Three words: yummy, yummy, yummy. Some how berries manage to taste better frozen. Maybe it is because we have to slow down and bite carefully or suck on it for a long time and that heightens our sense of taste. Anyway, I can't get enough.
Chrysanthemums. Fall is here! Mums produce so many flowers and they come in so many colors. Luscious! Up close there are so many tiny petals making up each blossom. Miraculous! At my local farm they also come in hanging baskets. Opulent! Mr. BrainyandBeautiful (Mr.B&B) is on a business trip, but when he returns I think a trip to the farm for mums and other fall fun is in order.
Business Trips. I am always sad to see Mr.B&B head off to intriguing destinations all over the country, but I am grateful for these trips as well. I am grateful that his employer trusts him and values him highly enough to send him off to get more training and to represent them and to return to teach others what he has learned. I am all for him taking every opportunity he is afforded. He is so supportive of me and when I have to opportunity to give that support back I do.
Why else am I grateful for business trips? On the selfish side, I must admit, every once in awhile it is nice to clean as I wish and keep it that way, have full control of the t.v. remote, and put toasted bread with peanut butter and sliced apples on a plate and call it dinner.
This week Mr. B&B is somewhere in California. So, Californian readers, if you see a tall guy with startling green eyes wearing a Boston Celtics hat wandering your city, say hello and give him a hug from Mrs. B&B and let him know he is missed.
North End, Boston. I love all of Boston, but I find this part of the city particularly magical. On Saturday Mr. B&B and I treated ourselves to a stroll through this Italian neighborhood. There is always great people watching and Mr. B&B is always thrilled when the occasional Ferrari or Porsche passes by. Open air dining, amazing aromas, gardens on terraces, musicians walking the streets playing accordions, watching cobblers fix shoes through the windows, Italian groceries, are just some of what contributes to the magic. My favorite restaurant is La Famiglia Giorgios. Saturday we ate at Bella Vista on Hanover Street which came in a close second. It was a wonderful break in our very busy schedules during which we enjoyed great conversation and uninterrupted hand holding in an always magical place.
As far as NieNie and Christian, CJane reports that they continue to improve. Slow and steady wins the race. Please continue to think of and pray for them.
Prayers and positivity to Nie and Christian & family.
Good night, sleep tight, don't let the bed bugs bite <3
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